Slaney News, Issue 160, September 2023

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.

Welcome to the September issue of the Slaney News.

The last big Eniscorthy Festival of 2023 – the Blackstairs Blues Festival takes place this coming weekend, 8th to 10th September. Now in its 29th year, the 2023 Festival promises to be one of the best ones yet.

Over the years it is remarkable how the hard-working committee has managed to organise one of the premier Blues Festivals in the country on such a tight budget. Undaunted, the committee has attracted over 150 top bands to grace this remarkable festival since it started in Enniscorthy in 1995, and this year’s impressive line-up is included on page 78.

The 2023 Festival was officially launched in Stamps Pub, Enniscorthy, on 24th August where the enthusiastic audience was treated to authentic blues by Enniscorthy’s finest home-grown blues exponents – The BC Blues Band.

We look forward to seeing large crowds at the various gigs, spread over the town’s pubs, this coming wekend.

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

If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our new format. Telephone: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has almost 11,000 Followers. And, of course, if you like our new online format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you

– Frank Corcoran

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.

Please note the following:

To log a report regarding any dumping, street litter, road oil spills and potholes, ring Wexford Council on (053) 919 6000 or email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie

You will receive a log number to refer to if you need to call again.

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

Help make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener

The Enniscorthy Tidy Towns AGM takes place this evening, 5th September 2023, at 7.30pm in the IFA Centre, Mill Park Rd, Enniscorthy.

This is the first time in a few years that the group is holding an AGM and all members of the public are invited and welcome to attend.

The group says: “It is important to have community engagement please come along if you can! This is a great opportunity to meet local volunteers and discuss how we can make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener.”

Keep up to date on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Enniscort hyTidyTown n

A fabulous ladies night in Grant’s Pharmacy, Rafter Street, Enniscorthy, on Wednesday 13th of September, at 6.30pm.

 Leonie Grant will be speaking all about women’s health.

 BreastCheck Ireland will be there to help and advise on how to check your breasts correctly.

 Quick and easy makeup and skincare demonstrations.

 Loads of goodie bags and hampers to be won on the night. Tickets can be bought in store and your ticket is redeemable on the night.

Enniscorthy Credit Union Brenda O'Neill Scholarship Draw 2023

Calling all College/ PLC Students...

Apply now for the Enniscorthy Credit Union

Brenda O’Neill Scholarship Draw with €8,000 in prizes. You just need to be a member and a student to enter! The 2023 Scholarship Draw is open to ALL STUDENTS, IN ANY YEAR!

Application forms are available to download or you can collect them in any Enniscorthy Credit Union office: Enniscorthy, Ballymurn, Murrintown or Taghmon.

Enniscorthy Credit Union prides itself on the contribution it makes to our local community and the members it serves. Part of this contribution is the annual Scholarship Draw for college students who are members of Enniscorthy Credit Union.

To take part the student must be attending or commencing a full-time course of at least two years duration with an education body that is recognised by the Department of Education (Ireland) or Internationally for Overseas Students, and be a member of Enniscorthy Credit Union.

If you are not a member, you must be eligible for membership and join Enniscorthy Credit Union before the closing date of October 28th 2023.

There is a draw for Third Level and PLC Course Students with some great prizes. There is a separate form for each draw. If you are not in, you can’t win!

The Scholarship Draw forms are available online and in all Enniscorthy Credit Union offices.

THIRD LEVEL PRIZES*

Winner: €1,500 per year – for max 3 years.

Runner-up: €1,000 per year – for max 3 years.

*subject to passing exams and continuing the course.

PLC DRAW PRIZE

1st Prize €500.

Get those applications in!!!

Drop them in to any Enniscorthy Credit Union office.

Or post them to:

Scholarship Draw, Enniscorthy Credit Union, Abbey Square, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.

Or email them to: together@enniscorthycu.ie

All the information you need is on the website as well as the forms needed: https://www.enniscorthycu.ie/scholarship-draw/ n

Moulding a classic business f

This photo: L-R: Proprietor George McGee with staff members Keith O’Brien and Niall McGee (son), at Menapia Classic Mouldings, Ardinagh,Taghmon, Co. Wexford.

Photo below: Celebrating 35 years in business, George McGee inside the showrooms at Menapia Classic Mouldings.

for 35 years

A unique Co. Wexford business is celebrating 35 successful years this autumn. Taghmon-based Menapia Classic Mouldings supplies the general public and the building trade with superb quality, readymade and bespoke Plaster Mouldings, Cornices, Ceiling Centrepieces etc as well as undertaking high quality Restoration work.

Being very much a local and family business, owner George, son Niall and all the team take absolute pride in every piece that leaves their showroom destined for homes and commercial premises – hotels, restaurants, pubs, offices, etc, all over Ireland.

Menapia Classic Mouldings specialises in both the manufacture and fitting of plaster coving, plaster cornice, dados, corbels, ceiling roses and various decorative plaster mouldings in addition to ceiling centres of all sizes.

The company has a wide variety of styles and designs to choose from to suit every need and budget and every ceiling height. If none of their styles is exactly what you need then they will design exactly to your specification.

After 35 successful years in business, George McGee can absolutely guarantee that every client receives quality and service to the highest exacting standards. n

MENAPIA CLASSIC MOULDINGS

The Plaster Moulding Specialists

Plaster Mouldings – Cornices

Ceiling Centrepieces – Restoration and Everything Plaster

Ardinagh, Taghmon, Co. Wexford

Monday–Friday: 8am–6pm

Saturday: 8am–1pm

https://menapiaclassicmouldings.ie

Customers range from domestic right up to five-star hotels.

Concern over CAMHS services

Senator Malcolm Byrne has expressed concern at the shortage of staff in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in the South East, as outlined in a report published by the Mental Health Commission last month. While the report praised many aspects of the ser vice in the region, of which Wexford is a part, including the professionalism of existing staff, there were serious concerns outlined about staffing and the long waiting lists for ser vices. The report was also concerned about the lack of out of hours services.

Malcolm pointed out, “While we were aware of many of the challenges and I have spoken with many of the families and young people who rely on these services, the importance of this re port is that it sets out the strengths and challenges of the CAMHS services. While since Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler went into office, there has been in creased funding for CAMHS and there are more funded staff posts available, the service is not as good as it should be. Every child and young person should have access to these services when they need them.”

According to the Report, as of March 2023, there were 99 people on the CAMHS waiting list for North Wexford and 10 on the waiting list for South Wexford.

Malcolm added, “This shows the urgency of the planned new CAMHS team that is to be located in Gorey to meet the demand for services.”

The full report is available at:

https://www.mhcirl.ie/sites/default/files/2023-08/CHO%205%20Report%20FINAL.pdf

Enniscorthy Camera Club –new members always welcome

The long established and successful Enniscorthy Camera Club will be back on 12th September at 8pm in the Masonic Lodge, Friary Lane, and fortnightly thereafter. Potential new members are always welcome to go along and see what the club and its members do. n

New Community Care Centre for Enniscorthy gets go-ahead

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has welcomed the approval of planning permission for the development of a three-storey Enhanced Community Care Centre adjacent to the new Enniscorthy Primary Care Centre in Quarrypark, Enniscorthy.

Welcoming the approval, Minister Browne outlined how the development will bring “significant benefits for County Wexford residents in providing access for chronic disease management and older people’s healthcare services at a central location, which will alleviate some of the pressure on Wexford General Hospital... Making diagnostic services available in the Enhanced Community Care Centre in Enniscorthy will reduce the number of people from County Wexford travelling to hospital appointments further afield.”

These facilities will include the construction of a diagnostic suite to improve direct GP access in County Wexford. The Enhanced Community Care Centre will have a full range of measures to make the building fully accessible for wheelchair users and people with disabilities. It will also be accessible with cycle parking facilities. n

GIBSON’s street art

Centra Ferns –supporting the local community

Enjoy the new GIBSON exhibition at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, running until 28th October. This emerging street art superstar (pictured in front above) has filled the gallery walls with his distinctive illustrative style. Check www.presentationcentre.ie for more details. n

Centra was the main sponsor of this year’s Ferns Village Golf Classic held in July in Enniscorthy Golf Club. Commenting on his support, Pat said he was “delighted to be the main sponsor of the Golf Classic, knowing that proceeds are used for the benefit of the community”. Teresa Bailey, on behalf of the FCDA, thanked Pat for his generous support. She thanked all sponsors, those who played on the day and all who helped in any way in making the annual fundraiser such a huge success. n

Pat Durack, proprietor of Centra, Ferns, is pictured above presenting a cheque for €1,000 to Teresa Bailey, Chairperson of Ferns Community Development Association (FCDA).

Adult Education Programme 2023

A NEW CO. WEXFORD PHOTO COMPETITION – Enter Now!

Visit Wexford Photo Competition –‘Adventures for Every Season’

This year, Visit Wexford is running a photography competition which will give participants the chance to win amazing prizes, as it celebrates photography captured from all around stunning County Wexford.

Whether you’re a professional or amateur photographer, snap happy with a camera or phone in hand or just so happen to capture that ‘wow’ shot by chance, Visit Wexford wants to hear from you. This competition is open to everyone and can be a photograph from past, present or shots you go out and specifically shoot for the competition. You have until the end of September, so get snapping!

What Visit Wexford is looking for…

Great photography tells the story of Wexford to visitors far and wide and encourages them to visit our beautiful and historic corner of Ireland. Visit Wexford wants to show Wexford as a 12 month a year destination, and would love to see images of people enjoying all Wexford has to offer.

The winning photographs will be used in its marketing and advertising of Wexford both at home and internationally, so a great chance to get your images out there for the world to see!

Authentic images of people (tourists or locals) on an adventure in Wexford, whether that’s a trip out on a Saturday to a favourite place, enjoying our glorious coastline or just doing what they love. There is, of course, always a place for a great landmark or scenery shot but if there is a person in there somewhere in the distance, even better.

Insider tips that might help you score that top prize…

★ Lifestyle shots that look authentic rather than staged are key.

★ Try to avoid overly staged or posed shots or selfies.

★ An adventure could be any number of things as adventures are unique to people.

THE PRIZES:

• 1st prize: Amazing €1,000 Go Anywhere Gift Card from Irelandhotels.com

This truly unique gift card can be redeemed in any of the 400+ participating hotels and guesthouses across Ireland.

Pic: Kate O'Donnell – Saltee Islands

It doesn’t expire for 5 years and the value can be redeemed across multiple stays with the gift card.

• 2nd prize: An overnight midweek stay in The Wild Rooms at Tara Hill Estate.

Enjoy a truly unique experience as you sleep under the stars in County Wexford’s coolest glamping style hotel nestled in Tara Hill with breathtaking views of the coast. This elegant slumber lets you sleep close to nature in the sunny southeast.

• 3rd prize: A private Saltee Sauna experience for 6 people. Located in the picturesque seaside village of Kilmore Quay, enjoy a private sauna session for 6 friends or family and embrace the health benefits of this wood-fired sauna for mind and body before dipping into the Irish Sea.

Other important things to note:

Visit Wexford must have permission to use the images in advertising, both print and digital, so the people who feature in your images will have to agree to this (if you can see their faces).

Enter the Visit Wexford Photography Competition now to be in with a chance of winning! www.visitwexford.ie/photocomp

Please read the competition terms & conditions at VisitWexford.ie before entering.

Competition closes 22nd September 2023, so get snapping!

Contact details: hello@visitwexford.ie

Enter here: www.visitwexford.ie/photocomp

Closing date: 22nd September 2023

See the three photographs reproduced with this article which were entered for the 2021 'Fall in Love with Wexford' Photography Competition by Visit Wexford, as they might inspire your entries for this year’s competition.

Pic: Finula Goggin – The Hook

Pic: Breda O'Connor – Oulart Hill

BACK TO EDUCATION

(BTEI)

400696

L3 & L4 Computer and Internet skills

Friday, 1 September to 21 December 2023, 16 weeks, 9:30am – 1pm

Course code: 393139

Contact: Celina Hayden • celinahayden@wwetb.ie • 086 085 8902

Susan Neville • susanneville@wwetb.ie • 086 107 4556

COMMUNITY EDUCATION

This is informal learning that contributes to the development of the local community. Upcoming programmes include:

Weekly Wellness (includes

ENGLISH FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHER LANGUAGES (ESOL)

Wexford ESOL provides free English language classes (reading, writing, and speaking).

We o昀er QQI accreditation from Level 1 to Level 5, as well as unaccredited courses.

Both day and evening classes are o昀ered from Monday to Friday, September to June, depending on the number of applicants. There is continuous intake throughout the academic year.

Contact: Joyce Dupuy • joycedupuy@wwetb.ie • 086 158 7452

Mary Waters • marywaters@wwetb.ie • 087 718 9541

OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Level 5 Outdoor Sport and Recreation (full-time or part-time) 18 September 2023 – 28 June 2024, 41 weeks

Course code: 394570

The aim of this programme is to enable the learner to develop the knowledge, skills and competence in a range of outdoor sport and recreation activities, to work under supervision in a variety of outdoor recreation contexts and/or to progress to further and/or higher education and training.

Modules Include

COOKERY

Food Waste Reduction (non-certi昀ed):

Tuesday, 19 September, 6 weeks, 6pm – 9pm Course code: 405193

Food Choice and Health Module L2

Wednesday, 13 September, 16 weeks, 10pm – 1.30pm

Course code: 405194

Cookery Skills Module L3

Thursday, 14 September, 34 weeks, 10pm – 1.30pm

Course code: 405197

Christmas Cooking on a Budget

Tuesday, 28 November, 3 weeks, 6pm – 9pm.

Course code: 405201

Contact:

Carmen Sanchez-Padron • carmensanchez@wwetb.ie

• 086 165 7759

Anne McDonnell • Annemcdonnell@wwetb.ie

• 086 781 5062

Or apply online: www.wwetb.ie/courses

Contact:

Gibbon • colingibbon@wwetb.ie

• 051 389 550 • 087 909 1197

Enniscorthy signs ‘Sister City Agreement’ with Australia’s Blacktown City

by Maria Nolan

Enniscorthy Castle, looking resplendent, with its historic background, provided the perfect venue for the signing of the Sister City Agreement between Blacktown, Australia – a Sydney suburb, and Enniscorthy.

The friendship agreement was signed by Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council John O’Rourke, Wexford Co. Council CEO Tom Enright, Blacktown Deputy Mayor Cllr Brad Bunting and Blacktown Council CEO Kerry Robinson in the impressive Eileen Gray Room in Enniscorthy Castle before the Australian delegation was given a tour of the Castle by Manager Mico Hassett, taking them to the roof for an iconic photoshoot with Vinegar Hill in the background.

Blacktown has its own Vinegar Hill, originating of course from ours.* Speaking warmly of his previous visit to Ireland and Enniscorthy in 2022, Cllr Brad Bunting was lavish in his praise for the hospitality extended to him and his entourage by the people of Wexford and Enniscorthy and said he was looking forward to the many facets of friendship that will build and develop between our two areas at community level.

Chairman John O’Rourke said what a proud moment it was for him and the town to sign the friendship agreement ‘which will allow future generations to continue to fly the town flag with pride and friendship’.

Tom

acknowledged the great work that is being done

Enright

in Ennis-

The delegation also visited other key tourism locations, including Johnstown Castle , Medieval Ferns Experience, The National 1798 Centre, Vinegar Hill and the Irish National Heritage Park as well as making business connections with local elected members, local schools, Wexford Campus of SETU and Co .Wexford GAA.

The delegation from Blacktown City Council, led by Cllr Brad Bunting (representing the Mayor Tony Beasdale OAM) and CEO Kerry Robinson, OAM, enjoyed their visit to Enniscorthy Castle.

Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cllr John O’Rourke presents Blacktown Deputy Mayor Cllr Brad Bunting with a painting of Enniscorthy to mark the occasion of the signing of the Sister City Agreement. Pic: Maria Nolan.

corthy led by the elected members and expressed his delight at being present at the prestigious signing.

Blacktown CEO Kerry Robinson emphasised the importance of the Sister City Agreement being all about building and developing areas of education, culture, and arts that both communities, although thousands of miles apart, share.

The Australian delegation was in Wexford for five days visiting our key tourist locations as well as making connections with elected members, local schools, Wexford GAA, and local businesses.

Cllrs Kathleen Codd-Nolan, Barbara-Anne Murphy and Jackser Owens formed part of the Enniscorthy welcoming committee along with Wexford Co. Council Director of Services Carolyn Godkin and Enniscorthy District Manager Claire Lawless, who acted as MC for the event.

Mico Hassett and her Castle staff pulled out all the stops providing a sumptious sit-down meal, in beautifully decorated surroundings with ancient ambience for the very appreciative visitors, who they told me seldom get an opportunity to dine at a real Castle, and certainly not one as old as ours. Prompting me to me to suggest here the potential of our wonderful Castle as a venue of choice for select weddings with a difference, particularly for international visitors.

– Maria Nolan

* Historic Battle of Vinegar Hill Link

The first battle fought on Australian soil between government troops and rebel forces of European heritage was fought in and around Rouse Hill, located in the Blacktown City area, on 5 March 1804. As the ringleaders of the rebel forces were Irish, the battle became known as the Vinegar Hill Rebellion or the Battle of Vinegar Hill. Today, the city of Blacktown is home to over 400,000 people, with approximately 5% of those identifying as having Irish heritage. While the exact location of the battle is no longer known, in 1988 a permanent memorial was unveiled commemorating the Battle at a spot in the Castlebrook Memorial Park. n

Enniscorthy signs Sister City Agreement with Blacktown City, Australia, celebrating a shared historical Vinegar Hill link.

The Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, Cllr John O’Rourke, hosted a civic reception for a delegation from Blacktown City, a suburb of Sydney Australia, in Enniscorthy Castle on Friday evening, 25th August 2023. The Civic Reception included the signing of a ‘Sister City Agreement’ between Enniscorthy Municipal District and Blacktown City Council committing each Council to officially recognising both Vinegar Hills in commemoration events as well as a commitment to fostering new connections across the areas of tourism, sport, arts and culture.

Welcoming the group to the Civic Reception, Cllr John O’Rourke said, ‘As Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District and on behalf of the elected members and people of Enniscorthy, a céad míle fáilte to Cllr Brad Bunting and his delegation. From little acorns, oak trees grow and we look forward to commemorating our friendship this evening and developing it over time.’

Speaking warmly of his previous visit to Ireland and Enniscorthy in 2022, Cllr Brad Bunting complimented the hospitality that the people of Enniscorthy have extended him and his delegation and highlighted the value and importance both he, and the Blacktown City Council, place in building new relationships at a community level with Sister City areas. n

L-R: Blacktown Council CEO Kerry Robinson, Blacktown Deputy Mayor Cllr Brad Bunting, Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cllr John O’Rourke, Wexford Co. Council CEO Tom Enright.

Elected representatives and Council officials from Enniscorthy and Blacktown City.

St Aidan’s School, Enniscorthy, First Day, 30th

August 2023

Above left: Back row Ruby Jordan and Elaine O’Neill, front Emma Wall and Harvey Thorpe. Above centre: Chloe Mythen and Darla Byrne. Above right: Tracey Bolger, Amelia Gablas and Theresa Casey.

Right: Ellie Whelan and Shane Fortune. Below left: Pauline and Oisin Smith. Below centre: Layla, Shiele, Declan Bradley and Louis Cockler. Below right: Kaye Thorpe and Sienna Peare.

St Aidan’s School, Enniscorthy, First Day, 30th August 2023

Above

Above left: Paige Kelly and Nicola Daly.

centre: Kathleen Connors.

Above right: Twins Noah and Josh Bolger.

Left: Serals Anu Alex.

Right: Evanyilin Manu, Evan Manu, and Modlin Schastian.

Below left: Jude Philip and Adam John Prince.

Below centre: Ellie Whelan.

Below right: Sophie, Barry and Adam Kavanagh.

Does technology confuse you? If so, a free, local ‘Digital Help Hub’ is at hand

Welcome to the new pop-up Digital Help Hub! This great new service will be in Wexford town during the month of September, and will also be in Enniscorthy during the month of October. The Digital Help Hub is free, confidential and one to one.

WWETB (Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board) Tutors Anne Marie and Joan will be available at the Digital Help Hub to help you understand technology better. They can show you how to use your device (phone, tablet, laptop). They can help you to get online or use an app.

The Digital Help Hub is an initiative of the ALL Adult Literacy for Life national strategy. WWETB, WLD, and Wexford County Council Library Service have worked together to bring this initiative to County Wexford. Everyone hopes that it will be really useful for anyone who is struggling with technology!

At the Digital Help Hub you can find out how to fill in online forms, how to use egov.ie, mywelfare.ie, the National Childcare Scheme, Revenue, SUSI, Choice Based Letting for those on the housing list and much more.

When asked, Anne Marie and Joan said, “We are here to make your online life easier, do come and talk to us at one of the Pop-Up locations, we look forward to meeting you.”

Where can you find the Digital Help Hub? It opened in Wexford Library on Thursday 31st August from 10.30am to 2.30pm. It will continue to Pop-Up in the library on each of the following four Thursdays. You can also visit the Pop-Up at Wexford Credit Union on 6th September, FAB on 13th September, Tesco on the 20th and Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, on 27th September.

Following that the Pop-Up moves to the Enniscorthy area. There it is based at the WLD Office each Thursday from the 5th October for 5 weeks. And you will also find the Hub in Enniscorthy at Templeshannon Community and Childcare Centre on the 4th October, Supervalu Bunclody on the 11th, Supervalu Enniscorthy on the 18th, Enniscorthy Library on the 25th and at the Credit Union, Enniscorthy, on the 1st November.

For more information, to connect with the Help Hub or to book a time for a consultation, please telephone 089 984 3815. n

DIGITAL HELP HUB

SETU offers over 7,000 places

South East Technological University (SETU) is pleased to be making over 7,000 offers to prospective students at this time, demonstrating that SETU is the preferred university of choice in this region.

Places are being offered across 15 different disciplines at SETU’s three campuses in Waterford, Carlow, and Wexford.

This significant milestone marks an exciting new chapter for SETU, signalling the university’s commitment to providing new and innovative programmes now and in the future.

Bringing together over 50 years of experience in higher education, research, innovation, and stakeholder collaboration, today SETU serves over 18,000 students and employs over 1,500 staff with ambitions to grow over the next 10 years.

The extensive range of over 7,000 offers showcases SETU’s commitment to creating opportunities for students from various backgrounds.

SETU's three campuses, located throughout the region, offer students a vibrant and inclusive learning environment.

At SETU students are encouraged to explore their passions and interests across different disciplines. From business and engineering to arts and sciences, SETU provides students with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their chosen fields.

“SETU is thrilled to present over 7,000 offers to students seeking a top-tier education. This accomplishment solidifies SETU as the go-to university for students in the region,” said Dr Derek O’Byrne, Vice President for Academic Affairs, SETU.

“As a university for the south east, we are committed to providing new and innovative programmes now and in the future, ensuring that our students are

Approval for extension to Blackwater school

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has confirmed that the Department of Education has granted approval for an extension to be constructed at St. Brigid’s National School in Blackwater.

Commenting on the approval, Minister Browne outlined how “the Department of Education gave approval to the school to go to tender for the extension in June. The extension will include the construction of two special educational teaching rooms and a sensory room. I’m delighted to see that this development project is progressing well. I want to commend school principal Ms Kathleen O’Brien, the board of management and staff for all their hard work as this development will have a lasting impact for the entire school community.” n

equipped with the skills and expertise to thrive in a rapidly evolving world,” Dr O’Byrne added.

As SETU continues to grow and evolve, the university remains dedicated to providing exceptional academic opportunities for students.

For more information about SETU and the extensive range of offers, please visit www.setu.ie n

South East Technological University (SETU) and Wexford Waterford Education and Training Board (WWETB) have come together to increase access to higher education for those pursuing further education at Education and Training Board colleges in the Wexford and Waterford areas.

Students from WWETB colleges will have the opportunity to progress to higher education courses at SETU via the SETU Further Education Progression Pathways initiative. The initiative enables access to courses in computing, engineering, science, business, and humanities. For more information, visit www.setu.ie

Enniscorthy’s GreenTechHQ launches series of AI workshops

Enniscorthy-based Sustainability Innovation Hub, GreenTechHQ, has introduced a series of AI workshops to unlock the power of AI for businesses.

Presented by GreenTechHQ resident AI expert Rory Caldicott, it is an opportunity for attendees to equip themselves with the knowledge and tools to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving business landscape.

Almost one tenth of Irish adults have used ChatGPT for work purposes according to research by Digital Business Ireland. The study found that 18 per cent of all Irish adults have used the artificial intelligence platform, split 10 per cent for personal use and 8 per cent for work purposes. Findings were extrapolated from the most recent Digital Insights research commissioned by Digital Business Ireland, a representative body for online businesses, based on a national representative sample, collected from a pool of over 30,000 panellists.

“In a world driven by data, those who master AI will navigate the future with foresight, elevate efficiency, and sculpt success. GreenTechHQ hopes to shine a light into a relatively new digital world

which is rapidly improving. Our aim at GreenTechHQ is to support start-ups and SMEs through innovation, focusing on sustainability and leading of financially viable solutions. With AI lies an additional key to shaping future successes now,” said GreenTechHQ founder Ed Murphy.

The workshops are an ideal opportunity to stay updated with the latest advancements in AI and how businesses are leveraging this technology to their advantage. Attendees can gain insights into the success stories of AI implementations and discover the transformative potential for their own enterprises.

Workshops are perfect for business leaders, entrepreneurs, managers, and professionals from all industries looking to harness the power of AI to drive growth and competitive advantage. No prior technical knowledge is required; the content is designed to be accessible and valuable for all.

Course presenter Rory Caldicott says, “The future of AI holds endless possibilities. This workshop delves into the latest trends and predictions, empowering one to make informed decisions that will future-proof your business.”

Register online at greentechhq.com

GreenTechHQ is based at Senan House – the first block in the new Enniscorthy Technology Park.

GreenTechHQ founder Ed Murphy with GreenTechHQ resident AI expert Rory Caldicott (right).

Enniscorthy’s eastside – setting its sights on community development

The Templeshannon area, or Enniscorthy East as it is now known, is set for major changes across the social, community and economic fronts.

For so long now, people living in the eastern half of Enniscorthy have suffered from a distinct lack of investment in the infrastructure and social fabric of their area. Without a voice, the needs of the community in Enniscorthy East have been largely ignored, but all this looks set to change with the recent establishment of a new Enniscorthy East Community Development Group. Part of the Templeshannon Community and Childcare Centre, this small but determined group is seeking, it says, “to stop the rot and ensure that the people in the Templeshannon area finally gain parity with the more favoured west side of the town.”

With major changes facing Enniscorthy on a number of fronts and a new Town Centre First Plan adopted, the Enniscorthy East Community Development Group has commenced consultations with the local authorities. The first positive outcome is the decision to put in a new children’s playground in the Spring Valley area. Design plans are currently being drawn up and we will carry full details in an upcoming issue. The committee is keen to see tourism being

promoted on the eastside of town centred on Vinegar Hill and the St. Senan’s monastic site. Within a matter of weeks, it is expected that new information panels will be erected on Vinegar Hill by the Heritage department of Wexford County Council, along with major improvements to the walking trails around the Hill. Sites are being looked at by the Group with a view to identifying where a car/coach park could be constructed to service the Hill. A review of signage generally on the eastside will be carried out by the Group with a view to having improvements made which will benefit tourists.

The Group is loooking at the Turret Rocks area with a view to having it developed as a park containing a modern outdoor, covered amphitheatre to host concerts, drama, comedy shows etc. Imagine a balmy summer’s evening enjoying a show with the beautiful backdrop of Enniscorthy and the Slaney Valley in one direction and The Hill in the other. Regarding Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre, major capital works are in the pipeline including energy upgrading to be undertaken by the Enniscorthy-based Pinergy company.

On the social/community front, a new Community Singing group has been formed based in Templeshannon Community

Centre. The group is scheduled to return after the summer break on Thursday 7th September at 11am (contact 053-9237511 or email tccctempleshannon@hotmail.com to confirm).

A new Youth Club is being established with an Opening Night set for 21st September. See graphic below.

Other ideas being looked at for the eastside include a men’s/women’s shed, community allotments, public transport and linkages to the west side of town, get-togethers for older people in the community and greater interaction with members of the Ukrainian and other communities living locally.

Overall, the goal is to build a sustainable future for all in Enniscorthy’s historic eastside and to make the area a great place to live and raise a family. To make this happen, the Group needs your help and input. So all who are interested should go along to the next meeting which will be held on Tuesday 19th September at 8pm in the Templeshannon Community Centre. The Group guarantees that your views will be listened to and taken on board.

And make sure to follow the Group on Facebook for updates: ‘Enniscorthy East Community Development’. n

In 2015 the Slaney News published an article by Sean Doyle advocating a ‘People’s Park’ for the Turret Rocks area on Enniscorthy’s Eastside. The new Enniscorthy East Community Development Group has now taken up that mantle, but it’s worth revisiting Sean’s article (reprinted below) from eight years ago to establish the context.

AN ENNISCORTHY PARK OVERLOOKING THE TOWN AND A HISTORIC LANDSCAPE

❝I was pleased to read recently in the local newspapers that Wexford County Council has purchased the land adjoining the Turret Rocks with the possibility of creating a People’s Park. The land in question was purchased by Mr. Will Warham in the 1970s and after some time he offered it to the then Enniscorthy Urban District Council at the price he paid for it. The Council wasn’t in a position to buy it at the time.

Sometime around 2001 the National Building Agency drew up exciting plans for a Public Park on the land at the Turret Rocks and a meeting took place between Mr. Warham and Officials of Wexford County Council. Unfortunately nothing came of it as indicated by a newspaper headline of the 29th March 2002 in which it was stated that the County Council was withdrawing from the Turret Rocks Project citing ‘resource restraints’ for the decision.

At the January meeting of 2004 of Enniscorthy Town Council a presentation was made by Mr. Lorcan Griffin, a County Council Planner, which included two proposals – a Millennium Park at the Turret Rocks and a retail and residential complex at Blackstoops. Nothing came of it either. Eventually the Turret Rocks land was acquired by a developer who received planning permission for a housing development and a public park. No doubt the ravages of the Celtic Tiger put paid to such plans.

With hindsight it was a mistake not to purchase The Island and the land at the Turret Rocks and take them into public ownership.

The land at the Turret Rocks is one of the finest sites for a Park in County Wexford with a panoramic view of the town and the historic Duffry landscape to the foothills of the Blackstairs. It is also a very

sensitive area from a planning point of view. The planners will have to be very careful with their decisions. There is mention of some form of industrial development. It is my firm belief that such a site should not be considered for any form of industrial development. No doubt there is land available in other locations for commercial expansion.

I’m going to quote from an article I wrote on the 25 November 1999 – “It is up to the town’s leaders and business community to come forward with positive ideas to market the town to attract visitors and industrial employment. Some ideas to be seriously considered – a Millennium Park over the Turret Rocks, the rebuilding of the Coffee House, the erection of a Planetarium in the Millennium Park to attract visitors from all over the world. A complete overhaul of the County Museum and renovation of Enniscorthy Castle, the upgrading of The Athenaeum to an Arts Centre/Theatre, a footbridge over the River Slaney to the Swimming Pool and the setting up of a Committee to organise ‘Enniscorthy 1500’ which will take place in 2010 and to Commemorate the Centenary of the 1916 Rising in 2016”.

Some of the ideas mentioned above are in place and members of a Committee are preparing the programme for next year’s commemoration ceremonies for the centenary of the 1916 Rising.

It is fervently hoped that the third effort of Wexford County Council to provide Enniscorthy with a Public Park will be successful. The proposed Park should be an oasis of peace, calm and a retreat in a beautiful sublime setting, even for a short time, from the clamour of modern life. I would humbly suggest that the Park should be named to honour Eileen Gray, an Enniscorthy native and a world renowned designer and architect. Many Enniscorthy people are mystified that the town has not honoured such an icon in the world of design and art.

We will only get one chance of creating a Park worthy of the town and on such a picturesque scenic site. The record of our treatment of sensitive landscapes during the excesses of the Celtic Tiger is nothing to boast about.

The Turret Rocks was the location of the famous Coffee House which was built in 1840 by Joshua Bobiar. The last occupants of the unique building were the late Tommy Donnelly and his wife Breda. Breda Donnelly now lives in Vinegar Hill Villas. The Coffee House fell into disuse and eventually vandals wiped it off the face of the earth.❞

– Seán Doyle, 2 Esmonde Road, Enniscorthy.

The above article was first published in the Slaney News in 2015. n

An amphitheatre for the Turret Rocks area

just one idea currently being explored by the Enniscorthy East Community Development Group.

The local Sustainable Enniscorthy group topic this month is: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

When shopping have you ever considered the amount of packaging used on products you purchase?

It is estimated that approximately half of plastic produced worldwide is single use. Vast amounts of plastic, metal, cardboard and paper are used in food, drink and other products we purchase. All this packaging has an environmental impact to produce, recycle and dispose.

Are you familiar with the 3Rs term? Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Recently a fourth ‘R’ Refuse is gaining momentum. It is asking us to rethink and Refuse unnecessary packaging before we purchase a product.

If you cannot Refuse, one of the most environmentally friendly things you can do is Recycle the product and packaging correctly. Recycling reduces waste sent to landfills and incinerators, reduces energy consumption and resources and if recycled correctly, products can be reused or repurposed into something new! Always remember the golden rule when recycling –clean, dry and flattened.

Every household is obliged to have a waste collection service, including a general waste bin and a recycling bin. Depending on the area you live in, you may be eligible for a brown bin service for food and organic waste. If you can’t avail of a brown bin, home composting is equally as effective! Wexford County Council sell home compost bins for €25 – more info at https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/waste-and-recycling/wasteprevention-national-reuse-month-and-composting/homecomposting

A source of much frustration for Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers is that 90% of the litter collected weekly is recyclable.

For a very modest fee of just €2, householders can avail of the Enniscorthy Recycling Centre service provided by Wexford County Council on the Old Dublin Road, Eircode Y21 KC43. See details on opposite page.

This facility accepts a wide range of materials including:

Loose Dry Mixed Recyclables – plastics, tetra pak cartons, magazines, greeting cards, booklets, books  Glass Bottles, Jars, Drink Cans  Cardboard  Plastic  Textiles  Fluorescent Lights  All Metals  Batteries  Electrical Goods

Mobile Phones  Printer Cartridges  Waste Cooking and Engine Oil  Household Food Waste

You can download an information booklet on what is accepted here https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/sites/default/files/content/Recyle-Centres-2021-Web-size-leaflet_1.pdf

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) recycling is FREE at the Enniscorthy Recycling facility. Retailers are obliged

to take back WEEE at the point of purchase this includes large and small appliances, alternatively you can dispose of these items for free at any public recycling centre.

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns is seeing a worrying increase in the amount of littered ‘disposable’ single-use vapes. These singleuse vapes are far from ‘disposable’ and a terrible example of unsustainable production, consumption and throw-away culture. Single-use vapes contain plastic, metals, a battery and chemicals. Vapes should be recycled like batteries, never litter these and never throw them in a normal bin. More info on how to dispose of these correctly here: https://www.weeeireland.ie/vape-e-cigarette-device-recycling/. If you need to vape, save the planet and your pocket and consider a reusable vape. (Or even better quit the vape for good!) https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/quitsmoking/vaping/

The next time you are purchasing a product, perhaps you could think of the Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle? Or consider products with less packaging. If you can’t Refuse, please recycle – this will help the environment and your pocket! n

Image – courtesy of freepik.com

Photo of some vapes collected by Enniscorthy Tidy Towns in June 2023 –these were all recycled.

What to expect when you visit

The charge will be payable on entry by inserting €2 (in any combination of coins excluding copper) into a coin slot to raise the barrier.

The €2 entry charge applies to all visits to site whether on foot, bicycle, car or van and irrespective of the amount of waste.

What you get for your €2 entry charge - Materials accepted in each of the 4 sites

Textiles – E.G. Curtains, clothes, blankets, sheets, shoes etc

Printer cartridges

Loose Dry Mixed RecyclablesPlastics, tetra pak cartons, magazines, greeting cards, booklets.

Florescent lights – including spot bulbs - no pearl bulbs

Waste cooking oil (max 23 litres)

Waste engine oil (max 23 litres)

Glass bottles & jars – green, brown & clear glass

All metals, including food cans

Food waste

Drink cans

Batteries – household, car & electric fence batteries (maximum 3 electric fence batteries)

Christmas trees (Christmas time only)

Cardboard

Mobile phones including batteries and chargers (for charity)

NO ENTRY CHARGE WILL APPLY to customers bringing only waste electrical /electronic (WEEE) goods

For further information see www.wexfordcoco.ie or phone 053 9196000 before your visit.

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

Image courtesy of Wexford County Council

THE BOUNDARY COMMISSION –ITS DECISIONS AND ITS IMPLICATIONS

Like most political animals, I have been following with intense interest the process of the redrawing of the election boundaries. From the moment it was first muted all the way through the submission process to the announcement of its final draft, I have often wondered how independent the boundary commission is. One may ask are there parameters and guidelines set down in a way to get a desired outcome? How much input have elected politicians in its direction? How is this input channelled? How are the controlled leaks to the body politic released to prepare and tweak the end result?

I received a briefing from a few sources some months ago that a possible draft was being discussed which had North Wexford starting at, and including, Enniscorthy and working up to rural Wicklow but not including Arklow. This would put a Fianna Fáil Junior Minister against a Fianna Fáil Senator. If this was what was being discussed, what caused the mind-set to make this very significant change.

I have reasonable grounds to pose this type of questioning as I did have an encounter with the process in 2019. I was on a deputation to the Department of Local Government to discuss the decision to alter the recommendations proposed for the local election boundaries changes. The then Junior Minister John Paul Phelan started the meeting by stating that HE had already made the decision to place Oylegate in the Gorey electoral area and it was up to us to try and change his mind. I felt that it did not seem a very independent deci-

TOWN TALK

I took a glance at all the areas’ boundary changes and the names of the principal winners are Micheál Martin and Michael McGrath in Cork. Darragh O’Brien and Mary Lou McDonald in Dublin, and James Browne and Maacolm Byrne in Wexford.

WITH KEITH DOYLE

sion as he is a lifelong and childhood friend of a then Gorey deputy. The irony now is that a resident of Oylegate will now be voting for local candidates in the Gorey district which is in the North Wexford and South Wicklow area while living and voting in the the General Election in South Wexford. Can someone explain to me how this should be embedded as the norm for that community?

I was asked my opinion as to how this would affect the lineup in the next Dáil. This is like asking who will be the first three home in the Gold Cup in two years time without knowing all the runners and riders. However, this will have an impact on decisions made on the runners and riders declared. One must also hold off until after the local elections to see who may emerge from that campaign. With the most recent poll in the county showing the support as follows: SF 32%, IND 28%, FF16%, FG 14% and LAB 7%, this poses many other questions. Will SF run two in both areas and where? Will the Verona Murphy IND alliance in the locals throw up any running mate for her in either or both areas? In the unlikely event of Verona Murphy contesting and securing a seat in Europe will that open the door for FF to approach Ger Carthy as James Browne’s running mate in the south. Will FG approach Michael D’Arcy in a more favourable area in the north? With all five Wicklow TDs coming from the north of the county and now only four places, will this entice SD TD Jennifer Whitmore to run in the new constituency of North Wexford and South Wicklow as she hails from Wexford? Some or all of the questions posed may sound silly but we are in the political silly season after all. n

Will Social Democrat TD Jennifer Whitmore run in the new constituency of North Wexford and South Wicklow as she hails from Wexford?

Pastoral Letter on lay ministry

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I hope that you and your loved ones are keeping well. I was privileged to meet with many of you during the synodal conversations that I participated in since I arrived in the diocese almost two years ago.

Throughout our discussions there was a raised awareness of the baptismal call we all share, a call that inspires each one of us towards faith, hope and love. We each have gifts to offer in building communities of welcome and belonging.

The need for training and formation to enable and empower us to play a renewed role in the ongoing life of the church was very much evident, particularly during the four deanery meetings in the springtime that focused exclusively on training. Now is a good time to outline some of the planned initiatives that we have prayerfully discerned with the help of the Holy Spirit.

In the autumn of this year, I will be inviting people to participate in developing the faith life of the families, parishes and pastoral areas of the diocese. We will be encouraging a renewal of mission from committed lay people to prepare for and take up specific roles which in the past were undertaken by ordained ministers.

After a series of consultations with people and priests on the kinds of training that will be needed to facilitate the future flourishing of faith in the diocese, it has been agreed that we need several different strands of training. These will suit different people with different interest areas and with different amounts of time to participate. The consultation for this training was thorough as required by our call to Synodality.

To quote Pope Francis – “We need lay people who are formed well, animated by a clear and sincere faith, whose lives have been touched by a personal and merciful encounter with the love of Jesus Christ. We need lay people who take risks, soil their hands, who are not afraid of making mistakes, who move forward. We need lay people with a vision of the future.” (Pontifical Council for the Laity 2016)

Here in Ferns, following Pope Francis’ invitation and the expressed wishes of the people of the diocese, we will be inviting women and men, to be formed as:

• Catechists, to work with families and children in the parish who are preparing for the three great sacraments of welcome – Baptism, First Holy Communion and Confirmation;

• Pastoral Care Workers, to work with the sick and the housebound and to assist families in the time around funerals and bereavements;

• Leaders of Parish Prayer with scripture, to build up their capacity to lead communities in prayer and Liturgy;

• Parish Administrators and Leaders who will ensure the continuation and viability of the individual parish communities of the diocese when they will not have a resident priest;

• Facilitators with Accord, to help couples prepare well for the Sacrament of Marriage and for their life together.

We will be looking for people who want to share the deep gladness that they find in the person of Jesus in the Gospels with those who have yet to experience the Good News.

Pope Francis put the call to the Church in this way: “Unless we train ministers capable of warming hearts, of walking with people in the night, of dialoguing with their hopes and disappointments, of mending their brokenness, what hope can we have for our present and future journey? It isn’t true that God’s presence has been dimmed in them. Let us learn to look at things more deeply. What is missing is someone to warm their hearts” (28th July ‘13).

In September, we will be sending information to each parish and this will be followed by information evenings to provide further details on courses. In September, I invite you to keep an eye on your parish newsletter or you can contact the Diocesan Office directly after September 1st to get the dates of the information evenings. In the meantime, I ask that you continue to pray for the diocese, that the decisions we make in the months and years ahead will draw us closer to Christ and his Kingdom.

A Pastoral Letter from Bishop Ger Nash on the subject of lay ministry in The Diocese of Ferns...

+ Ger Nash Bishop of Ferns

Bishop Ger Nash (left) pictured with his predecessor Bishop Denis Brennan.

Enniscorthy Community College

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

Information sharing

Wexford County Council has developed a free online information sharing portal for not-for-profit community owned facilities to inform the public and promote usage. You can submit facility details at: https://arcg.is/1nnjev n

ENNISCORTHY FÁILTE

WELCOMING UKRAINIAN REFUGEES

CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthyfailte Email: enniscorthyfailte@gmail.com

Enniscorthy Library events

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

LIVING WITH ARTHRITIS IN ENNISCORTHY?

Oulart storytelling house

At Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart, a great welcome awaits all, with good music, songs, stories and plenty of craic, tea and refreshments served. Eircode: Y25 YP70. For details of upcoming events keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/bygonedayshouseofstories n

Arthritis Ireland is delighted to announce that their FREE in-person Living Well with Arthritis course will commence in September 2023 in the Riverside Park Hotel and Leisure Club, running from Thursday 28th September until 2nd November from 2pm-4.30pm. The course consists of 6 weekly sessions, with each session lasting 2.5 hours. The course is suitable for people with any form of arthritis.

The Living Well with Arthritis course gives people with arthritis the tools and techniques to help them better manage their condition. This includes managing pain and fatigue, reducing reliance on health professionals and medication, and improving a person’s overall sense of well-being. The courses also offer participants the opportunity to connect with others living with the condition. Booking is essential and places are limited.

To secure your place visit www.arthritisireland.ie

Enniscorthy Toastmasters

Keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthy-Toastmasters-129333810455771 for updates. Enniscorthy Toastmasters return to action in September! For more details contact Siobhan 087 2210656. n

CONSTITUENCY REVIEW

The Electoral Commission has finally reported. It has decided to hive off half of Co. Wexford to Wicklow rather than create two 3-seater constituencies in the county. This will be disappointing for many members of the public who will be strongly opposed to the entity of the county being destroyed. In Ireland we think county. Our sports, local authority administration and almost everything else is based on the county and has been for centuries. The idea or notion that people of Co. Wexford who have lived here all their lives, supported our hurling and football teams and everything else Wexford, are now any part of Co. Wicklow is nonsensical in the extreme. For clarity, I’d better point out that if you are living north of Marshalstown or Ballycarney you are now in the Wicklow-Wexford constituency. A kind of a hybrid constituency which the Commission has created.

In electoral terms for our current Oireachtas members this will create a problem for some and be an advantage to others. The simple fact is that in the new Wexford constituency 5 into 4 will simply not go. Our current 5 –James Browne, Paul Kehoe and Johnny Mythen, all from Enniscorthy, and Brendan Howlin and Verona Murphy from Wexford Town and south Wexford respectively, will have to decide where to stand come the next election.

Obviously, Howlin (if he runs or his replacement George Lawlor) and Murphy will run in the four-seater Wexford and have a more than good chance of being elected. Browne and Mythen will have to decide where to go but one assumes that Wexford will be their choice as both live in the constituency, Johnny just barely now, and obviously

View from the Centre

constituency. As stated earlier, 5 into 4 will not go. Will Kehoe opt to go to the new Wicklow-Wexford constituency? Probably not. He may take his chances in Wexford.

A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond

have a good chance of re-election. This leaves Enniscorthy-based Paul Kehoe who is also resident in the Wexford

The big winner here has to be Malcolm Byrne. He will be all alone in the Gorey area as an outgoing Oireachtas member. Of course he will not get a clear run as Sinn Fein will no doubt put a candidate forward and he will be competing with candidates from the Wicklow side of the constituency. Fine Gael will also have a sharp look at this area before they decide on a candidate. Their best strategy might be a Wicklow candidate to represent that end of the constituency because of the perceived crowded field in the Wexford side. So very little is certain for the moment. Everyone will be watching everybody else to see who jumps first. The local elections in 2024 will also determine a lot when the main parties assess their support, or lack thereof, in particular areas. We shall wait for the dust to settle before any predictions can be made.

BACK TO SCHOOL

Our schools have reopened over the past few days. This means extra movement on our roads and footpaths as the pupils and their parents travel to and from their places of education. It is important that those of us not directly involved at this stage take all this into consideration. Give extra time to our journeys, have more patience when driving, cycling or walking in the vicinity of our schools particularly during start and finish time so as to avoid accidents. In fact, keep away from these areas during those times unless it is essential for us to travel at a particular time. Save ourselves and everybody else unnecessary stress. n

The proposed new Wicklow-Wexford constituency

Cllr Codd welcomes upgrades in Taghmon

Accessibility at Taghmon Health Centre has been hugely improved to the satisfaction of local Cllr Jim Codd who has long campaigned on the matter on behalf of local people with mobility issues.

Wheelchair users who previously didn’t have the benefit of ramped access can now enter the building with ease. In addition, the disabled parking bay outside the premises has been repaired and repainted. n

Wexford Pride’s new schedule

Wexford Pride is excited to share its new schedule of events running up to December 2023.

As a grassroots community group, it is driven by the needs and interests of LGBQTIA+ folks in Co. Wexford. In addition to the fortnightly Tea on The Quay (Wexford town) and LGBQTIA+ Peer Support Group (Enniscorthy) and monthly LGBTQIA+ Book Club (online) the group is excited to launch three new initiatives beginning this September!

A Board Game Night and Art Club will meet monthly and will be hosted at Mountain Gremlin Games in Castlebridge.

An online Ace/Aro Peer Support Group will take place via Zoom and is open all regardless of geographic location, gender identity, race, nationality, ethnicity or ability. As with its LGBQTIA+ peer support group, this will be a safe and confidential space supported by a facilitator where community members can seek and provide peer support.

There will be individual posts with additional details about each individual event across the group’s social media over the coming days and weeks so be sure to keep an eye out!

For full details and updates: https://www.facebook.com/WexfordPride/ n

Thumbs up from Cllr Jim Codd in relation to accessibility improvements at Taghmon Health Centre.

Lucia leading Wexford’s London exiles in 70th celebrations

Images of County Wexford were the focus of attention of Lucia Butler, the charismatic chairperson of the London Wexford Association and native of Clongeen, home from London in August.

Lucia, presenter on IrishCountryMusicRadio.com programme, columnist with the UK’s Irish World newspaper, secondary school teacher and photographer, was shooting iconic features of the county for the new London-Wexford Association Calendar for 2024, due out at the end of October.

An indication of her popularity is that everywhere she walked in Wexford town, she was recognised as if she was a rock star. A county councillor beeped her horn and waved frantically at her. Others wanted to stop for a long chat. Lucia is a County Wexford football champion and has two U-16 All Ireland medals. She is vice-president of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA or Peil na mBan) Provincial Council of Britain.

“Next year will be a big one,” said Lucia. It’ll be the 70th birthday of the London Wexford Association, which has helped thousands of Wexford people ‘who took the boat’ at Rosslare, emigrating to England to find jobs, settling down in towns and cities throughout the UK, keeping them in contact with family and friends back home and helping vulnerable people.

The celebrations of those who founded the London Wexford Association in a front room in Kilburn in 1954, just after World War II, and kept its work going for 70 years will be held at the Crown Hotel, Cricklewood, London on 20th April 2024.

Tommy Quirke, from Barntown, was first chairman at the formal founding meeting at The Red Lion in Kilburn High Road in 1954. Tommy Ryan, from Galbally, another founding member, was prominent in the Fr Murphy Hurling Club in London.

In an account on the website, londonwexfordassociation.com of how the association was founded in 1954, the late Michael Sills, president of the association, wrote how a group of young Wexford men living in London went on a train journey from Paddington to Fishguard and then onto Croke Park in Dublin in 1954 to see the All-Ireland hurling final between Cork and Wexford.

“On their way back to London on the train were Jim Murphy and his brother Sean from Castlebridge, Tommy Quirke, Barntown, Peter Brown, Crossabeg, Jack Carty, Bannow-Ballymitty and a few more.”

Lucia Butler, current chairperson, said: “We’re here to help people whether it be for jobs or for someone to listen and guide them. Creating and maintaining the links between people at home and exiles is of vital importance to family members here and back home.”

It is almost ten years since the 60th celebrations when the late Mi-

chael Sills of Murrintown was president. Then Bishop of Ferns, Denis Brennan, who was one time a missionary in the UK, addressed the attendance in a thronged Crown Hotel in Cricklewood.

Football star, Kevin Doyle of Adamstown and Killurin, the Wexford town-native parents of the popular TV presenter Dermot O’Leary, and Helen Ashdown, Clonleigh, author of The Last Surrender, Wexford 1916, were special guests. There too were many Wexford County Councillors.

Apart from her media and public relations work, Lucia Butler is busy with the annual Wexford Town’s re-union of those from the towns of the county, Gorey, Enniscorthy, New Ross and Wexford Town, to be held at the Mazenod Social Club in Kilburn on Saturday 21st October.

The association has a focus on raising funds for charity and applies to the Wexford County Councillors’ Amenity Grant, using this money to support worthy causes including providing for older people and protecting them from isolation.

New London Wexford Association 2023 Committee:

Sean Walsh, a native of Enniscorthy town, is newly elected president of the London Wexford Association in succession to the late Michael Sills. Lucia Butler, native of Clongeen, is chairperson. Carole Fox of London and Gorey ancestry is secretary, and Sinead French of London and Clonroche ancestry is assistant secretary. Anna Redmond, native of Campile, is treasurer, Tara Walsh, native of Enniscorthy, is assistant treasurer. Sharon Cave-Ellis, native of Bridgetown is registrar. Ailish Braddick of Enniscorthy is public relations officer and Anna Boura of Taghmon is assistant public relations officer. Jennie Forman (London/New Ross,) Imelda Stafford (Ramsgrange) are committee members.

Contacts: Carole Fox, Secretary, Email: secretary.londonwexfordassociation@outlook.ie

Lucia Butler, Chairperson, Mobile: (0044) 793 284 9667

Email: chair.londonwexfordassociation@outlook.ie

Listen to Lucia: Listen to Lucia Butler on Irish Country Music Radio.com on Saturdays from 9.00am to 11.00am and on Mondays from 1.00pm to 3.00pm.

– Liam Mulcahy

L-R: Lucia Butler, Chairperson of the London Wexford Association, Sean Walsh, President, Carole Fox, Secretary.

Carraig Briste Early Years, Enniscorthy, First Day,

30th August 2023

Top left: Proprietor Orlagh Doyle with Finn and Ann Marie Kennedy.

Top centre: Settling in was Ruairi Gallagher.

Top right: Orlagh Doyle and Ava Cooney.

Above left: Fiadh Bennett and Orlagh Doyle.

Above right: Ruth and TJ Mahon on his first day with proprietor Orlagh Doyle.

Left: Fiadh and mam Fiona Martin.

Right: Cathriona and Ava Barron were met by Orlagh Doyle at Carraig Briste.

Below left: Roisín O’Shea and her dad.

Below centre: Addie Kinsella and Gemme Fanning.

Below right: Laoire, Sean and Fiadh Kehoe.

Carraig Briste, Enniscorthy, First Day, 30th August 2023

Above left: Beech class with Amy Dalton and Orlagh Doyle. Above centre: Orlagh Doyle and Ollie Doyle. Above right: Cool fireman Max Power settles in on his first day. Below left: Eabha Byrne had her dad Mark to bring her on her first day. Below right: Forest Way class with Orlagh Doyle, Katherine and Stephanie. Bottom left: I’ll find my own way, young Fiadh Martin. Bottom centre: Orlagh Doyle with June Rothwell. Bottom right: Oak Room with Mary Douglas and Orlagh Doyle.

Wexford children to benefit from FREE schoolbooks

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne (pictured) has welcomed the fact that 18,427 children in Co. Wexford will benefit from free schoolbooks, workbooks and copybooks from this September under an initiative introduced by Minister Norma Foley TD. This has been made possible through the provision of €1,768,992 worth of funding.

Minister Browne commented that this scheme is welcome as it will “ease the financial burden facing County Wexford families during back to-school time. Back-to-school time can be a challenging time for County Wexford’s parents and families... As Chairperson of Wexford Educate Together Board of Management, I know that this Government decision will have a very real impact on families. This is yet another positive step forward, which I wholeheartedly welcome.”

Local Fianna Fáil Senator Malcolm Byrne also welcomed the news that more than 18,400 children in Co. Wexford will benefit from free schoolbooks, workbooks and copy books from September under an initiative introduced by Minister Norma Foley TD.

This has been made possible through the provision of over €1.77 million worth of funding.

“Nationwide, more than 558,000 pupils enrolled in over 3,230 primary schools, including over 130 special schools, will benefit from the scheme. This scheme will significantly ease the financial burden facing families during back to-school time.”

Over €50 million has been made available to support this scheme, including an administrative grant for schools rolling out the scheme.

Senator Byrne continued: “This is a landmark moment for Irish education, and one which will provide significant benefit for families around the country.

“Back-to-school time can be a challenging time for parents and families, and I welcome Minister Foley’s commitment to easing the burden. We in Fianna Fáil believe in the power of education, and we believe in making education truly accessible for all. This is yet another positive step forward, which I wholeheartedly welcome.” n

President poses for photos in the park

L-R: Last month President Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina visited Co. Wexford including a stop off at Min Ryan Park for a look around the impressive facilities there. He met with local Labour Councillor George Lawlor and posed for photos with local teenagers who were skating there.

FF reveals local election candidates in Co. Wexford

With all Fianna Fáil conventions in the Wexford constituency having been completed, the party has confirmed that thirteen candidates have been selected to run in next year's local elections.

Wexford Comhairle Dáil Ceantair Chairman John Higgins said the membership is delighted to have such a strong team with a balance of youth and experience within the team for the next Local Elections.

Mr Higgins said, "It was important for our organisation to have our candidates picked and ready to hit the ground running. We are running to retain all seats and hoping to pick up some."

Mr Higgins stated that in Wexford LEA, Cllr Garry Laffan is the only candidate selected, but work is underway to identify a second candidate in this area.

Within the Enniscorthy District, Cllr. Aidan Browne is running to retain his seat as is Bunclody's Barbara-Anne Murphy.

In Gorey, Councillors Joe Sullivan and Donal Kenny will be joined by Senator Malcolm Byrne's replacement on Wexford County Council and recently qualified barrister, Councillor Andrew Bolger.

In Kilmuckridge LEA, where Fianna Fáil won two out of four seats in 2019, both incumbents, Cllr Pip Breen and Cllr Willie Kavanagh, will run again.

Fianna Fáil in New Ross hopes to retain three out of six with County Council Chairman Cllr John Fleming, Cllr Michael Sheehan and Cllr Michael Whelan on the ticket.

Electricity supply to

Finally, in Rosslare LEA, Cllr Lisa McDonald has been joined by first-time candidate Simon Boyse of Bannow.

"We are looking forward to the elections where we will get an opportunity to canvass door to door, listen to the needs and issues, and we will get an opportunity to outline what the party has succeeded in delivering in the last four years in Wexford,” said Mr Higgins. n

in Kilmuckridge and Ballygarrett

There should be significant improvements to electricity supply in the Ballygarrett and Kilmuckridge area by early 2024, according to Senator Malcolm Byrne.

He pointed out that homes and businesses in these areas have often been hit by outages or problems with connections and that he and local Councillor, Pip Breen, have been raising the problem over the last year with ESB Networks.

improve

Malcolm says, “The line serving the Ballygarrett/Kilmuckridge area is also one of the longest on the ESB Network system. There are frequent interruptions and this often leaves people without supply. The company has redesigned a large section and have been working on refurbishment of this network for the past year and hope to be finished early next year. There is a large section of this network being transferred to the new ESB substation at Banogue. This will mean that over 1,000 customers will be

supplied in future from a much shorter length of refurbished network, which will be more reliable.”

Malcolm and Pip have met with and regularly engaged with ESB management on what they both described as “incredibly frustrating outages for the community... Sometimes if something hit one ESB pole, it could knock out supply for a huge area. It was really problematic but we are now on the way to resolution.” n

L-R: Senator Malcolm Byrne, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cllr Aidan Browne, Minister Sean Fleming TD, Minister James Browne TD.

ENJOY KAYAKING ON THE SLANEY AND HELP KEEP THE RIVER CLEAN AT THE SAME TIME

The Sustainable Enniscorthy Slaney River Kayak & Cleanup will take place on 23rd Sept. 2023, 10am-12noon.

The river Slaney is central to Enniscorthy, quite literally. Yet how often do we stop to appreciate this beautiful natural resource that flows through our town? You may cross the river daily by car, bike or foot, but how often have you actually been in or on the Slaney?

This Slaney River Kayak and Cleanup offers people the chance to experience the beauty of the river at close hand, enjoy the fun of kayaking and take some time to help keep the Slaney litter free. The wonderful Sustainable Enniscorthy group has been following The Green Plan on ChangeX – a project involving simple activities that have a positive impact on our environment funded by The Green Plan, ChangeX and Accenture. Sustainable Enniscorthy, in collaboration

SUSTAINABLE SLANEY KAYAK

Saturday 23rd Sept. 2023, 10am-12noon

The river Slaney is central to Enniscorthy, quite literally. You may cross the river daily by car, bike or foot, but how often have you actually been in or on the Slaney?

This Slaney River Kayak will offer the chance to

experience the beauty of the river at close hand, enjoy the fun of kayaking & take some time to help keep the Slaney litter free.

There is a €5 booking fee to secure your place

BOOK NOW

with Enniscorthy Tidy Towns and GoPaddle.ie, is offering Enniscorthy people this fun opportunity in the hope of:

 Encouraging a love of our natural environment

 Fostering a sense of concern for its protection

 Providing an opportunity to connect with volunteers in Sustainable Enniscorthy and Enniscorthy Tidy Towns and get involved with environmental / sustainability initiatives in the town.

If you are interested in taking part, please book your place online at www.sustainableenniscorthy.com

EVENT SUMMARY:

Title: Sustainable Enniscorthy Slaney River Kayak & Cleanup

Date & Time: Saturday 23 September 2023 from 10am-12noon

Location: Meet at the slipway near the Riverside Hotel, Enniscorthy Cost: €5 booking fee

Age group & competence: over 16 and water confident

All equipment and instruction will be provided by GoPaddle.ie

If you have any questions please contact sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com or gopaddle.ie@gmail.com n

ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS NEEDS YOU!

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers meet on Sunday mornings to collect litter and tidy up around the town. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed! So if you are sick of seeing rubbish on your road, street, estate or elsewhere in the community, please contact: 053 923 6518 or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com

Let's all help to make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener! n

CAMOLIN MAN WAYNE IS AN INTERNATIONAL GOLDEN LIGHT!

A Co. Wexford man has been announced as one of just three global recipients of an international award, recognising the outstanding achievements and contributions of young people with epilepsy in raising awareness of the condition.

Wayne O’Reilly (pictured) from Ballymore, Camolin, was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2016 and as he has stated himself, his journey with the condition has had plenty of “ups and downs”.

Throughout his journey with epilepsy, Wayne has been open about his condition to educate others about epilepsy. As well as being one of the faces behind Epilepsy Ireland’s International Epilepsy Day awareness campaigns in 2021 and 2022, he has been a committed supporter of Epilepsy Ireland’s fundraising efforts and a regular presence in the media and on social media highlighting his own experiences of epilepsy.

Speaking about his work and award, Wayne said, “I don’t think of my volunteering work as ‘work’, nor do I really think about its impact. I put my hand up as I hope it can help others who are living with the condition or help the public break down the misconceptions they may have about epilepsy. One thing I passionately believe in is the need for members of the public to know the right things to do if they see someone having a seizure. Epilepsy can strike at any time to anyone. I was 23 when I had my first seizure and never thought it would happen to me, but people should educate themselves on seizure first-aid and be ready to help if needed. The best way I can help encourage them to do this is by being willing to help promote the message by sharing my own story with epilepsy.

“I was incredibly honoured and delighted to be nominated by Epilepsy Ireland for consideration to receive this award

from the International Bureau for Epilepsy. I know each organisation can only put forward one nominee – and from my work with EI, I know just how many incredible volunteers and supporters that they have. I was speechless when I was nominated so to then receive it, was truly humbling!”

Commenting on Wayne receiving the Golden Light award, Epilepsy Ireland Advocacy & Communications Manager Paddy McGeoghegan said, “It is no surprise to us that Wayne has received this international accolade. At Epilepsy Ireland, we are fortunate to have incredible volunteers who go above and beyond to help raise awareness of epilepsy, and to support the work of Epilepsy Ireland. Wayne O’Reilly is the definition of an incredible volunteer! Whenever we have sought his involvement, the word “no” has not been in Wayne’s vocabulary. We were delighted to nominate him and are even more delighted to see his contributions being recognised by the international epilepsy community.”

Wayne will officially receive his Golden Light award at the International Epilepsy Congress which is currently taking place in Dublin. The event is the biggest international scientific epilepsy meeting and will see over 3,000 experts in epilepsy care attend the 5-day event at the Convention Centre from the 2nd to the 6th of September.

In a first for the congress, the event will feature two public information evenings which have been arranged by Epilepsy Ireland. The events feature some of the world’s leading experts discussing a range of topics of interest to people with epilepsy and their families. Further information on these events can be found by visiting www.epilepsy.ie n

OUR LADY’S ISLAND

Above: The Opening of Our Lady’s Island Pilgrimage, members of the choir.

Right: Annette Jordan, Eamonn, Peter and May Dagg. Below left: Alfie and Marie Leacy. Below centre: Anne and William Kinsella. Below right: Three Communion flower girls Maddie Donnelly, Caoimhe O’Donovan and Annie Kehoe.

PILGRIMAGE OPENING CEREMONY

15TH AUGUST 2023

Top left: Samantha and Betty Cullen. Top right: Procession.

Above left: Caragh and Ciaran Boyce.

Above centre: Mary and Danny Doyle.

Above right: Some of the crowd. Left: Having his ice cream before the Mass was David Flannery.

Right: Anne Scallan with her two grandaughters Caoimhe O’Donovan (left) and Anne Scallan (right).

Far right: Bishop Ger Nash and retired Bishop Denis Brennan.

Below left: Pat Kinsella and John Grennan.

Below centre: Fr Cogley welcomes everyone to Our Lady’s Island.

Below right: Harry, Lucy, Cassie Murphy.

Over €24,000 raised at BD for Wexford Women’s Refuge

Staff at Enniscorthy’s largest employer, BD on the Old Dublin Road, collect money every year for a chosen charity and this year was no exception with an impressive €24,328 being presented on 31st August 2023 to Catherine McCurdy representing Wexford Women’s Refuge.

BD designs, develops and manufactures innovative, minimally invasive medical devices associated with peripheral artery disease, diabetes, surgical procedures, and oncology.

The staff at BD raise money every year in various ways –sports events, social nights, quizzes, cake sales, etc. Our photo shows BD Enniscorthy staff presenting the proceeds of its charity fundraising to Wexford Women’s Refuge.

Front row L-R: Schalan Dreelan (BD), Catherine McCurdy (Wexford Women’s Refuge) and Denise Boland (BD).

For 2024 the staff have chosen Wexford Hospice Homecare as their benefiting charity. n

Wonderful Woodie’s Wexford workers raise over €8,000 for charities

Woodie’s Wexford celebrated its ninth annual Woodie’s Heroes campaign last month. The store raised a remarkable €8,130 with help from customers, colleagues and suppliers for four children’s charities. 100% of funds raised will be divided equally among ISPCC Childline, Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland, Down Syndrome Ireland, and Make-A-Wish Ireland.

Woodie’s Heroes was established in 2015 and has raised over €3 million for Irish children’s charities; this year’s fundraising is expected to see that figure grow closer to €3.5 million. Customers donated throughout the campaign by adding a donation in-store at the till, online at woodies.ie or by text.

The team at Woodie’s Wexford were overjoyed by the generosity and support shown to them during the campaign by their local community and wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of those who donated. The money raised will make a meaningful difference to the children and

families who are supported by the four amazing charities. n

Colleagues at Woodie’s Wexford pictured with a cheque for €8,130 which was raised during the 9th annual Woodie’s Heroes campaign.

Important Notice for All Landowners

This notice sets out the responsibilities of landowners in relation to public roads and drainage.

Trees and Hedges

The maintenance of roadside trees, hedges and other vegetation is the responsibility of the landowners on whose land they are growing. Landowners should ensure that trees, hedges or other vegetation are maintained in such condition that they are not a hazard to road users or that they do not interfere with the maintenance of the public road. Branches, which jut out onto the road, should be cut back. Dead and unsafe trees should be removed, and hedges should be cut and trimmed. It is recommended that professional advice on the condition of the roadside trees should be obtained from time to time. When landowners are maintaining hedges or trees all reasonable care should be taken to ensure the safety of road users while this work is being carried out.

Drainage

As a landowner it is your responsibility to maintain drains on your land. This is of the utmost importance considering any episodes of very heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding.

It is also your responsibility to ensure that: -

a) Water is not prevented, or obstructed, from draining onto your land from the public road. Consequently, the drainage system should be adequately maintained.

b) Water, soil, slurry or other material does not flow onto public road from your land.

c) Entrances to land are piped with adequately sized pipes or culverts and regularly maintained.

Written consent is required from the Council before a landowner deepens or widens an existing drain, or digs a new drain, within 15 metres of the nearest edge of the public road. Otherwise, consent is not required for the normal maintenance of the drain. It is an offence to interfere with, or carry out works which interfere with a bridge, culvert, etc.

Tenders

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

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

Tugtar fógra leis seo go bhfuil sé beartaithe ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman an bóthar atá liostaithe thíos a dhúnadh do thrácht feithicle ó Dé Luain 16 Deireadh Fómhair 2023 go dtí Dé Céadaoin 18 Deireadh Fómhair 2023, chun oibreacha cothabhála bóithre ag An tAgard, Ráth Ghráinseach a éascú.

Dúnadh Bóthair: R733-21 óna acomhal leis an L4045 ag Ráth Ghráinseach go dtí a hacomhal leis an R737 ag An tAgard.

Bealach Eile: Ó Ráth Ghráinseach go Cill Bhríde go An tAgard tríd an L4045 agus an R737.

Cuirfear comharthaí ar bhealaí eile. Éascófar rochtain áitiúil.

Ba chóir d’aon duine atá ag iarraidh agóid a dhéanamh i gcoinne dhúnadh an bhóthair seo an agóid a dhéanamh i scríbhinn tríd an tairseach ar líne https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ nó i gcóip chrua roimh 12.00 meán lae Dé Máirt 19 Meán Fómhair 2023 chuig an Rúnaí Contae, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, Halla an Chontae, Loch Garman.

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

Tugtar fógra leis seo go bhfuil cinneadh déanta ag Comhairle Contae

Loch Garman an bóthar atá liostaithe thíos a dhúnadh do thrácht feithicle ó Déardaoin 14 Meán Fómhair 2023 go dtí Dé hAoine 22 Nollaig 2023, chun deis a thabhairt príomhphíopaí uisce nua ag Baile Mhic Réamainn, Ráth Easpaig a éascú.

Dúnadh Bóthair: L7046-2 ag Baile Mhic Réamainn, óna acomhal leis an L3041 ag Ráth Easpaig go dtí a hacomhal leis an L7060 ag Baile Hae Bheag.

Bealach Eile: Ó Baile Hae Bheag go Sceach Moling go Baile Mhúráin go Ráth Easpaig tríd an L7060 agus an L3041.

Cuirfear comharthaí ar bhealaí eile. Éascófar rochtain áitiúil.

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

LCDC. Single Party

Tugtar fógra leis seo go bhfuil cinneadh déanta ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman an bóthar atá liostaithe thíos a dhúnadh do thrácht feithicle ó Dé Luain 18 Meán Fómhair 2023 go dtí Dé Sathairn 30 Meán Fómhair 2023, chun suiteáil duchtanna faoi thalamh, cuanta comhpháirteacha agus gníomhaíochtaí cáblaithe don bhealach cábla nua a éascú mar chuid de. Tionscadal Idirnascaire Greenlink ón Oileán Mór go Trá Dhún Dónaill.

Dúnadh Bóthair: L4049-3 ag Baile Ram óna acomhal le Bóthar Rochtana Trá Dhún Dónaill (L8119) go dtí a hacomhal le Bóthar Rochtana Trá an Chairn Aoibhinn (L8117).).

Bealach Eile: Ó Bhaile Ram go Fiodh Ard go dtí an Ghráig Bheag go dtí Baile Ram tríd an L4049, R734 agus an L8117.

Cuirfear comharthaí ar bhealaí eile. Éascófar rochtain áitiúil.

Are you on Wexford County Council’s Social Housing Supports List?

Do you wish to remain on the List?

Wexford County Council is currently carrying out a review of the Social Housing Supports List (Housing List) and will be writing to existing approved applicants requesting that they update their details.

To remain eligible for Social Housing Supports, existing approved applicants who receive a Summary of Social Housing Assessment (SSHA 2023) review form must return the form with the relevant documents within the specified time as detailed on same.

Please note that not all applicants will receive a SSHA 2023 form. Applicants who have applied, or been reassessed, since 11th August 2022, will not receive a form. Also transfer applicants, including those in Private Rented accommodation receiving HAP (Housing Assistance Payment), will not receive a form.

Any applicant, whose circumstances have changed, can contact the Customer Service Unit or any Area Housing Officer for a ‘change of circumstances’ form. It is imperative that our Social Housing Supports list is up to date to ensure the proper allocation of Social Housing Supports.

Failure to return the information will result in you being removed from the Housing List.

Recent changes applicants must submit 52 weeks income details for all household members by the following means:-

Any household member in employment

Evidence of 12 months’ income prior to the date of application must be submitted through a combination of the following:-

Current Year

Payslips for all employments or

Pay and Tax Summary (Year to date).

This can be obtained from Revenue’s online service, myAccount* and will include all employments in this current year to date.

Previous Year

Statement of Liability. This can be obtained through Revenue’s online service, myAccount* or your local tax office and Employment Detail Summary. This can be obtained from Revenue’s online service, myAccount*.

*https://www.ros.ie/myaccount-web/home.html

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

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

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

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

In particular, Wexford County Council is seeking:-

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

• Mixed development schemes where social residential components could be incorporated.

• Development land, varying from small sites (circa 4-6 units) in rural areas with modest demand to larger sites in urban areas (circa 5070).

Any household member in self-employment

A minimum of 2 years’ accounts with an Auditor’s Report and

A Notice of Assessment and/or SelfAssessment Acknowledgement letter for the preceding 12 months.

Any household members in receipt of Social Welfare

A recent statement from Department of Social Protection detailing all welfare payments received and commencement date of receipt of such payments. If a household is in receipt of social wlefare for less than 12 months, a Statement of Liability for the preceding year and, where applicable, payslips for the intervening period must also be provided.

For any/all household members with a disability or medical condition a separate HMD – Form 1 (Disability and/or Medical Information form) must be submitted. This can be requested from the Customer Service Unit by telephoning 053-919 6000.

All completed forms are to be returned marked “SSHA 2023” to: Housing Department, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford.

Information regarding this review can be obtained from Housing Officers in each Municipal District or at the Housing Department in Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford.

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

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

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

Application forms must be received by 5pm on Friday 29th September 2023

Application forms and accompanying explanatory documents should be requested - by emailing housingcapital@wexfordcoco.ie or - may be downloaded from www.wexfordcoco.ie

Wexford County Council is subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2014.

Community Climate Action Programme

A new community grant scheme is due to open shortly to support and build low carbon communities across County Wexford. This funding is part of the Community Climate Action Programme, which supports projects and initiatives that facilitate climate action within local communities. The fund is open to not-for-profit community groups and clubs.

Funding of up to 100% of the cost of a climate action project is available through this scheme, up to a maximum of €100,000. Project examples could be insulation of community buildings, solar panels, bicycle parking, rainwater harvesting, community gardens / allotments, etc.

An information evening will be held in each district to explain how the fund can work for your community and provide guidance on how to prepare an application:

• Our Lady’s Island Community Centre - Monday 18th September, 7.00pm

• Gorey Library – Tuesday 19th September, 7.00pm

• County Hall, Carricklawn – Thursday 21st September, 7.00pm

• New Ross Library – Tuesday 26th September, 7.00pm

• Enniscorthy Library – Thursday 28th September, 7.00pm

To book a place at one of the above information evenings or for further information, please contact

Clinton Donovan, Community Climate Action Officer at 053-919 6443 or email climateaction@wexfordcoco.ie

Wexford County Council

Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended)

Location:

Doire Moling, Ballyedmond,

Monamolin,

Co. Wexford (Ballyedmond T.D., Monamolin E.D.)

Pursuant to Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and in accordance with Part 8, Article 81 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council proposes to carry out the development, the nature and extent of which is set out hereunder:

Construction of 5 no. dwellings, consisting of 3 no. 3 bed 2 storey terrace houses & 2 no. 2 bed bungalows, and associated site works. This is an amended proposal from PLAC2124 which consisted of 3 no. 3 bed 2 storey houses, 1 no. 3 bed bungalow and 1 no. 2 bed bungalow.

Based on a preliminary examination of the nature, size and location of the development, there is no likelihood of significant effects on the environment and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) is not required.

Any person may, within 4 weeks from the date of the notice, apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.

Plans and particulars of the proposed development will be available for inspection, or purchase at a reasonable fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during office hours from Wednesday 6 September 2023 to Wednesday 4 October 2023, at the following location and may be viewed online at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning:

• Wexford County Council, Planning Department, Carricklawn, Wexford

• Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District, Civic Square, The Avenue, Gorey, Co. Wexford

Submissions or observations with respect to the above proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made in writing on or before Wednesday 18 October 2023 to:

Wexford County Council, Planning Department, (Reference LAC2311), Carricklawn, Wexford.

Wexford County Council

Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)

Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) Notice

of Proposed Development by a Local Authority LAC2310

Location: Aughnaglaur Bridge, Chapel, Adamstown

(Chapel T.D., Clonroche E.D.)

Pursuant to Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and in accordance with Part 8, Article 81 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council proposes to carry out the development, the nature and extent of which is set out hereunder:

Proposed Aughnaglaur Bridge Replacement Scheme on the R735 Road. The Scheme consists of the replacement of a temporary bailey bridge which was provided after the original bridge washed away in a flood event. The Scheme comprises a single span bridge with a clear span of 10.5m and a width of 8.8m. The carriageway width on the bridge is 6.0m and the footway width on the bridge is 1.2m.

Based on a preliminary examination of the nature, size and location of the development, there is no likelihood of significant effects on the environment and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) is not required.

Any person may, within 4 weeks from the date of the notice, apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.

Plans and particulars of the proposed development will be available for inspection, or purchase at a reasonable fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during office hours from Wednesday 6 September 2023 to Wednesday 4 October 2023, at the following location and may be viewed online at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning:

Notice of Proposed Development by a Local Authority

LAC2311

• Wexford County Council, Planning Department, Carricklawn, Wexford

• New Ross Municipal District, The Tholsel, Quay Street, New Ross, Co. Wexford

Submissions or observations with respect to the above proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made in writing on or before Wednesday 18 October 2023 to:

Wexford County Council, Planning Department, (Reference LAC2310), Carricklawn, Wexford.

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Monday 16 October 2023 to Wednesday 18 October 2023, to facilitate road maintenance works at Haggard, Ramsgrange.

Road Closure: R733-21 from its junction with the L4045 at Ramsgrange to its junction with the R737 at Haggard.

Alternative Route: From Ramsgrange to Kilbride to Haggard via the L4045 and the R737.

Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated. Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 19 September 2023 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Thursday 14 September 2023 to Friday 22 December 2023, to facilitate installation of a new watermains at Redmondstown, Rathaspeck.

Road Closure: L7046-2 at Redmondtown, from its junction with the L3041 at Rathaspeck to its junction with the L7060 at Hayestown Little.

Alternative Route: From Hayestown Little to Scaughmolin to Murntown to Rathaspeck via the L7060 and the L3041. Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated.

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the roads listed hereunder to vehicular traffic during the time window of Monday 2 October to Friday 3 November 2023, to facilitate the installation of underground ducts as part of the Greenlink Interconnector Project.

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

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

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

Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 12 September 2023 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Monday 2 October 2023 to Friday 6 October 2023, to facilitate improvement works to a wastewater sewer at Mulgannon Road, Wexford Town.

Road Closure: L7609-1 at Mulgannon Road, from its junction with Mill Road to Wexford Garda Station.

Alternative Route: From Mulgannon Road to The Fairways to Distillery Road to Mill Street via the L7609, L7607 and the R733.

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

Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 12 September, 2023 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Monday 2 October to Friday 3 November 2023 to facilitate installation of underground ducts for the new cable as part of the Greenlink Interconnector Project from Greatisland to Bagibun Beach.

Road Closure: L4049-4, from its junction with the L8117 (Crossroads in Ramstown) to its junction with the R734 at Graigue Little.

Alternative Route: From Crossroads in Ramstown to Fethard to Graigue Little via the L4049 and the R734.

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

Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 12 September 2023 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Monday 18 September 2023 to Friday 13 October 2023, to facilitate installation of underground ducts, joint bays and cabling activities for the new cable route as part of the Greenlink Interconnector Project from Greatisland to Baginbun Beach.

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

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

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

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic on Tuesday 10 October 2023, to facilitate ESB site investigation works at Tracystown East, County Wexford.

Road Closure: L70411-1 at Tracystown East, from its junction with the L7041 at Ballyshellin to its junction with the R733 at Tracystown East.

Alternative Route: From Tracystown East to Shelmalier Commons to Tracystown East via the R733 and the L7041.

Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated. Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 19 September, 2023 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic on Monday 9 October 2023, to facilitate ESB site investigation works at Gardamus Great, County Wexford.

Road Closure: L3046-2 at Gardamus Great, from its junction with the L7051 at Gardamus Little to its junction with the L3041 at Gaynestown.

Alternative Route: From Gardamus Great to Gaynestown to Newcastle Cross Roads to Moor Cross Roads to Gardamus Great via the L3046, L3041, L3047 and the L7051.

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

Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 12 September, 2023 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Monday 18 September 2023 to Saturday 30 September 2023, to facilitate installation of underground ducts, joint bays and cabling activities for the new cable route as part of the Greenlink Interconnector Project from Greatisland to Baginbun Beach.

Road Closure: L4049-3 at Ramstown from its junction with the Baginbun Beach Access Road (L8119) to its junction with the Carnivan Beach Access Road (L8117).

Alternative Route: From Ramstown to Fethard to Graigue Little to Ramstown via the L4049, R734 and the L8117. Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated.

Clár Gníomhaíochta Pobail ar son na hAeráide

Tá scéim nua deontais pobail le hoscailt go luath chun tacú le pobail ísealcharbóin agus iad a thógáil ar fud Chontae Loch Garman. Tá an maoiniú seo mar chuid den Chlár Pobail um Ghníomhaíocht ar son na hAeráide, a thacaíonn le tionscadail agus tionscnaimh a éascaíonn gníomhaíocht aeráide laistigh de phobail áitiúla. Tá an ciste oscailte do ghrúpaí pobail agus do chlubanna neamhbhrabúis.

Tá maoiniú suas le 100% de chostas tionscadail gníomhaíochta aeráide ar fáil tríd an scéim seo, suas go huasmhéid de €100,000. I measc na samplaí tionscadail tá insliú foirgneamh pobail, painéil ghréine, páirceáil rothair, bailiú uisce báistí, gairdíní pobail / cuibhrinn, etc.

Reáchtálfar tráthnóna eolais i ngach ceantar chun a mhíniú conas is féidir leis an gciste oibriú do do phobal agus chun treoir a sholáthar maidir le conas iarratas a ullmhú.:

 Ionad Pobail Oileán Mhuire - Dé Luain 18 Meán Fómhair, 7.00in

 Leabharlann Ghuaire – Dé Máirt 19 Meán Fómhair, 7.00in

 Halla an Chontae, Carraig Leathan– Déardaoin 21 Meán Fómhair, 7.00in

 Leabharlann Ros Mhic Thriúin – Dé Máirt 26 Meán Fómhair, 7.00in

 Leabharlann Inis Córthaidh – Déardaoin 28 Meán Fómhair, 7.00in

Chun áit a chur in áirithe ag ceann de na tráthnónta eolais thuas nó chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil, déan teagmháil le Clinton Donovan, Oifigeach Gníomhaíochta Pobail ar son na hAeráide ag 053-919 6443 nó seol ríomhphost chuig

Roses blooming in Enn

Last month Co. Wexford gave a warm welcome to 32 Irish and International Roses as part of the Wexford Rose Tour, sponsored by Wexford County Council.

The Roses experienced a jam-packed weekend of fun before hitting the road to Tralee for the Rose of Tralee International Festival 2023. Hospitality partners the Ashdown Park Hotel along

with Visit Wexford and local communities rolled out the red carpet for the Roses from all over the world who soaked up the sun and had so much fun discovering the adventurous side of County Wexford.

On Friday, 11th August, things got underway with the Wexford County Council official welcome reception at Monck Street, Wexford town, starting

with a delicious Taste Wexford showcase of local food and drink produce.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council John Fleming invited everyone to visit Wexford and follow in the footsteps of the Roses. “County Wexford has so much to offer; stunning beaches, a wide range of open-air attractions for everyone to enjoy, walking trails, a rich Norman and Viking heritage and outstanding local food experiences. We congratulate and celebrate with the Rose of Tralee International Festival which will celebrate 63 years as a family-friendly, world-class festival.”

The town of Gorey was buzzing at their arrival and welcomed them loud and proud with live music, Irish dancers and a Rose-themed display in the windows of local shops. Local businesses and children met and greeted the Roses, snapping photos and wishing them all the best.

The Roses kicked off an action-packed day 2 at Hook Lighthouse – the world’s oldest operational lighthouse on the edge of the breathtaking Hook Peninsula. They made the short journey to beautiful Baginbun Beach to try their hand at a wide variety of exciting activ-

Wexford Rose, Brónagh Hogan from Clonroche, with members of Ballindaggin Pipe Band.

The 2023 Roses enjoying their visit to Enniscorthy on 13th August 2023.

niscorthy and Bunclody

yoga, seaside sauna, sea swimming and even a game of camogie! All that fun in the sun worked up an appetite, so the Roses stopped in the picturesque seaside village of Kilmore Quay before heading to The Lobster Pot in Carne for a tasty chowder and a seasonal salad. Next up was the International Outdoor Adventure Centre (IOAC) for even more fun as the Roses took on the high ropes, crate stacking and archery to test the teamwork skills of the new bunch of friends from near and far.

Then, it was back to the Ashdown Park Hotel to don their gladrags for the Gala Dinner. With a Taste Wexford menu featuring many of Wexford’s award-winning local producers and Redmond Farm beef, there was plenty of food, fun and music to fill the dance floor all night. The Ashdown Park Hotel team certainly put on a wonderful show for the Wexford Rose Tour Gala Dinner.

The final day, 13th August, gave the Roses a chance to explore Wexford’s historic towns. Starting off with a walking tour through the laneways of New Ross discovering the town’s medieval murals before stopping off in the Market Square in Enniscorthy for plenty of Rose-themed fun as they sampled Wexford’s famous strawberries while meeting all of the smiling faces of those who came to visit. The last stop on their exciting itinerary was Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club where they enjoyed a Taste Wexford lunch before taking to the green for golf tips from members and a chance to view the stunning golf course from golf buggies.

CEO of The Rose of Tralee International Festival Anthony O’Gara was full of praise for the Wexford Rose Tour. “We are forever grateful for the way that everyone involved – led by our sponsors Wexford County Council and hospitality partner the Ashdown Park Hotel

has delivered such an incredible experience for this year’s Roses. The smiles on the Roses' faces while they toured County Wexford and the way that the tourism and hospitality industry came together with the local community in each town shows why County

Wexford is such a popular tourism destination.”

The Rose of Tralee International Festival was broadcast live on RTÉ One on Monday 21st and Tuesday 22nd of August, and the Wexford Rose, Brónagh Hogan, certainly did her county proud.

For more information on the Wexford Rose Tour 2023, see www.roseoftralee.ie

And make sure to follow @VisitWexford on social media and go to www.VisitWexford.ie for lots more about what’s happening around County Wexford n

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy with Sydney Rose Aoife Butler (originally from close to Carnew) and the Cork Rose Kate O’Shaughnessy from Ballincollig. The photos were taken at Bunclody Golf Club.

Above and below: The 2023 Roses enjoying their visit to Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club.

Roses blooming in Enn

This year’s Rose of Tralee contestants visited Enniscorthy on Sunday 13th August and enjoyed a dancing spectacle in the Market Square.

Below left: Aoife Day with the Philadelphia Rose Marissa Berry.

Below right: Arizona Rose Ashley Jackson with Tess and Cyril Wheelock.

Far left: Performing for the Roses were dancers Pierce Barry, Aoife Fleming and Liam Treacy

Left: Claire Lawless (Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager), Richie Cotter, Cllr Jackse Owens, Mico Hassett (Enniscorthy Castle and National 1798 Centre Manager).

Right: Dancing spectacle in the Market Square.

Far right: Roses enjoy Wheelock’s strawberries.

Above: Th

Below: The Ro

niscorthy and Bunclody

his year’s Rose of Tralee contestants with Cllr Jackser Owens. ses acknowledging the large crowd who came out to meet them.

To

Below: Among those making sure the Roses had a great time on their visit to Enniscorthy on 13th August 2023 were Warren, Tess and Cyril Wheelock and Alice Cooney.

y.

Roses blooming in Enn

Above left: Claire Lawless (Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager), San Francisco Rose Katie McFadden, New York Rose Róisín Wiley and Maria Nolan.

Above right: The Roses in Market Square, Enniscorthy, 13th August 2023. Left: Some of the dancers entertaining the Roses were Amy Deacon, Tia Robson, Grecey Bregan and TJ Sheil. Right: Showing the Roses how to dance, Cllr Jackser Owens.

Below left: Members of the Ballindaggin Pipe Band with the Sydney Rose Aoife Butler.

Below right: Claire Lawless (Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager) and Cllr Jackser Owens with some of the Roses.

niscorthy and Bunclody

Left: Some of this year’s Roses with local parents and future Roses!

Right: Ellie Mulligan and Texas Rose Eden Kaspark.

Below left: The Washington Rose Siobhan Spiak enjoying the hospitality at the Wheelock’s marquee with baby Tess, Cyril, and Warren Wheelock.

Below right: Some of the Roses getting a bit emotional at the dance spectacle.

Above left: The Roses visiting Enniscorthy on 13th August 2023 as part of their tour of County Wexford.

Above right: Sarah Blake and Clodagh McLoughlin.

Enniscorthy Drama Group t

Enniscorthy Drama Group (EDG) celebrated a big milestone event for the group last month on the 12th August in the IFA Centre as we marked our 10th Anniversary with a wonderful Variety Night. A truly enjoyable evening was had by everyone in attendance. Our committee, EDG members, members of fellow drama groups, our local musical society, our local traditional dance and music group, our film workshop friends, local musicians and singers, local writers and comedians, our historical and reenactor friends, our longtime Delightful Dollies friends, and many more friends and family of EDG all came together to celebrate on this special night.

A variety night was the chosen event for our 10th anniversary celebration. EDG wanted to give something back to all those who have supported our group for the past ten years and what better way than to provide a free event to all our supporters, family, friends and fellow performing arts groups, a show of appreciation, a pay it forward exercise if you will.

We decided to not only show our appreciation with a free drama event, but opted to invite, include and incorporate other acts and groups, besides just drama into our night and make it a variety night.

The event in question, a variety night, really did live up to the name as the level of talent was superb. As a town, and its environs, Enniscorthy really does have an abundance of talent. The arts scene is ever growing both with so much established and experienced performers and the new, younger generations adding to our vast pool of talent.

The variety night began with touching opening speeches from our chairperson Liam Doyle and vice chair Maria Nolan who recalled how our wonderful group came to be and with a special mention to the founding members. Some stories were recalled of the successes as well as the challenges experienced by EDG over the past 10 years with a mention to the various plays produced and performed and a wonderful slideshow of every play ever performed by EDG shown later, con-

cluding the night against a beautiful piece of music played by local musicians Conor Kenny and Luc Power.

A wonderful video of heartfelt words and messages by founding member and first ever chairperson and director of EDG Colum Coomey, now living in Australia, was sent to EDG especially for our 10th anniversary celebration and shown on the night.

EDG dedicated the night to our longterm fellow EDG member sadly no longer with us, Joe Doyle, with some lovely anecdotes shared in Joe's memory and told of how Joe's father, the late John Doyle, Doyle's Bar, so kindly and generously helped EDG to get off the ground when the group first started.

The wonderful and talented performances on the night were as follows:

Enniscorthy Drama Group debuted two new comedy sketches "Weight Lifting" performed by James Freeman and Liam Doyle, and "I am Yeah" performed by Liam Doyle, Fiona McDermott, James Freeman and Brendan Robinson which

Above left: Senator Malcolm Byrne, Liam Doyle, Karen Franklin, Maria Nolan. Above centre: Jer Ennis and Anne Marie O’Rourke.

Above right: Anne Doyle and Liz Mitchel. Below left: Mary Cotter. Below centre: Some of the large attendance. Below right: Madeline Breen.

turns 10!

the audience enjoyed. Some of our VIP table winners even got in on the act, literally!

Wexford Film Workshop performed a scene from the upcoming film The Shadow of War based on a novel by local author Maria Nolan which depicts the Civil War struggles in Ireland. The scene saw actresses Madeline Breen, Karen Franklin and Fiona McDermott take to the stage.

A surprise award was made on the night as Maria Nolan, author, and Dick Donaghue and Jer Ennis of Wexford Film Workshop and EDG presented Fiona McDermott with the Award for Best Actress at the Bucharest International Film Festival for Wexford Film Workshop’s The Shadow of Freedom based on Maria's book of the same name.

Dick Donaghue, of Wexford Film Workshop, told stories of the legendary Biddy Early of Faha, Co. Clare, which had the audience listening tentatively.

Author Mary Cotter delighted the audience by reading a passage from her novel The Spike.

Joe Neal, award-winning poet, writer, actor and BBC broadcaster, read a compilation of his beautiful poetry on the night.

Jer Ennis entertained the audience with one of his own short stories called The Talking Ducks, which was a funny, quirky and light-hearted tale.

Local author Madeline Breen captivated the audience by reading a passage from her novel The Secret Life of Roses.

Eddie Crean and Richard King, two wellknown local musicians, provided beautiful gypsy jazz numbers which the audience thoroughly enjoyed and sang along to.

Our good friends in Enniscorthy Musical Society entertained the crowd with three individual performances by Michaela White, Aoife Doyle and Hannah Roche who each sang pieces from various musicals, and did so beautifully. This was followed by a wonderful group performance of Out Here on My Own from the hit musical Fame

Two highly talented dancers, Cian Fortune and Cillian Dempsey from Celtic Roots, performed a set dance piece and

a brush dance that wowed the audience and the roof of the IFA almosted lifted off with all the cheering and clapping!

Blayne Hosey, comedian of the famous ‘Bailey Laughs Comedy Club’, provided the jokes with a comedy set that had the audience laughing at all the great punchlines!

Comedy newbie Brendan Robinson entertained with a comedy set. His jacket was a big hit on the night also!

Tim Corrigan of Enniscorthy Historical and Re-enactment Society sang a powerful and moving a capella rendition of the famous Grace, which had the audience joining him in song.

EDG is very proud of the success of the 10th Anniversary Variety Night and wishes to thank every single performer who helped make the night such a special one.

The biggest thank you is to our audience who helped us celebrate our special milestone. Thank you to all our prize sponsors, your support is always appreciated so much.

A huge thank you also to Nancy, Marie and Tom Dunphy of the IFA Centre who provided a wonderful venue and service for our anniversary celebration and who always go above and beyond to facilitate our group, whatever our need.

A special thank you to our local newspapers for helping us advertise and promote our Anniversary Variety Night.

Thank you to all our fellow local Facebook Groups who helped us advertise our Anniversary Night and especially our very good friends in EMS who were a great support on this front.

Thank you to all members of our committee who worked to make the 10th Anniversary such a special occasion.

Our fantastic MCs on the night, our chairperson and founding member Liam Doyle, our vice chairperson and founding member Maria Nolan, our acting secre-

tary Brendan Robinson and our treasurer and founding member, Tom Boland. Brendan Robinson, acting secretary, for sound and lighting and also for the wonderful 10th Anniversary photo reel that he produced for the night and that EDG will have as a treasured keepsake.

Anne Doyle and Liz Mitchell, EDG committee, for front of house, greeting all our wonderful audience and also for their raffle duties.

And finally, thank you to our secretary Laura Franklin who is on a short hiatus from the group, and we congratulate her on the recent birth of her little girl. Laura is always on the sidelines, with enthusiastic suggestions and ideas for our group, in contact with other groups, talking all things drama and always willing to offer advice and information to all our members when needed.

Thank you to everyone who has supported our drama group in every and any way over the last 10 years, all our members, past committee, all our backstage help and production crews, all our sponsors, all our rehearsal and performance venues, and finally the largest thanks of all to every single person who came to our plays and shows the past 10 years. We do it for you but without you we wouldn't be here and your support is appreciated more than you know.

The future of EDG is very bright and we look forward to many more years of treading the boards and continued success, fun, friendships and happiness in this beautiful world of drama and theatre.

Watch this space as we plan to announce our next production very soon. Anyone interested in joining our group please send your message of interest to enniscorthydramagroupedg@gmail.com or a message to our Facebook or Instagram accounts.

– Karen Franklin, PRO

Enniscorthy Drama Group Chairperson Liam Doyle (right) and Vice Chair Maria Nolan (left).

Bridgetown College Graduation, 17th August 2023

Bridgetown College Graduation

Ball in the Riverbank Hotel, Wexford, 17th August 2023.

To buy copies of photos on these pages, email slaneynews@gmail.com

Top left: Kayle Flynn and Mary Atkinson. Top centre: Nicola Roche and Aaron Davey.

Top right: Dylan Roche and Shannon Doyle. Left: Dylan Fortune and Katie Fenelon. Right: Hannah Lynch and Jason McKevitt. Below left: Eve Donohoe and John Kelly. Below right: Jack Atkinson, Daniel Delaney, Aisling and Aaron Murphy.

Top left: Timmy Sommers and Chloe Paige travelled in style to the ball.

Top right: TJ Waters and Lauren Williams travelled in style also.

Above left: Cathal Murphy and Alannah Kielthy.

Above centre: Sarah Kelly and Lelia McCormack.

Above right: Elisabeth Bray and Alyssa Murray. Left: Christopher Van Niekerk and Ava Lawton Breslin.

Right: Cian O’Reilly and his mam Geraldine.

Below left: Michael Ryan and Sophie Murphy.

Below centre: Ciara Fortune and Helena Van Hobe. Below right: Kyle Moore and Skye Fernihough.

Sing! Sing! Sing!

So what are your plans for the Autumn? Take up cycling, swimming, hiking, sky diving…. None of these for you? Well how about SINGING... yea that’s it, you've always wanted to join a choir and Enniscorthy Gospel Choir might be just the ticket. This wonderful local choir resumes rehearsals on Wednesday

September 6th at 8pm in the IFA Centre, Millpark Road, and every Wednesday evening thereafter.

Why not go along and see what you think, no auditions, and no experience necessary. If you can hold a note they will be very happy to see you there. n

Joining a choir is good for you!

Turn2Me, a national mental health charity, is encouraging the public to sign up to sing in a choir and stated that it can have mental health benefits. The charity listed the many benefits of being in a choir including a strengthened feeling of community, a reduction in stress levels and an improved feeling of social wellbeing.

The charity referenced a study titled ‘It’s better together: The psychological benefits of singing in a choir’ by Nick Stewart and Adam Lonsdale, which compared ‘choral singing to two other relevant leisure activities, solo singing and playing a team sport, using measures of self-reported well-being, entitativity, need fulfilment and motivation. Questionnaire data from 375 participants indicated that choral singers and team sport players reported significantly higher psychological well-being than solo singers. Choral singers also reported that they considered their choirs to be a more coherent or ‘meaningful’ social group than team sport players considered their teams.

“Joining a choir can bring a feeling of inclusiveness, collegiality and pride after performing,” Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said, “It is also a great opportunity to meet new people and

make new friends. Many people struggle making new friends when they finish secondary school or college, because these are environments where we’re forced to spend time with people in our classes, and friendships grow organically. When these social structures are taken away, people can struggle to make new friends.

Fiona stated that there will be a great concert in aid of Turn2Me with the brilliant Belle Harmonics Pop Rock Choir on the 29th September in the Pepper Cannister Church, Dublin. Doors open at 7pm and the concert starts at 7:30pm.

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

Contact details:

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

Enniscorthy Gospel Choir.

Enniscorthy Musical Society news and updates

Craft Fairs...

The Enniscorthy Musical Society (EMS) is holding a series of craft fairs over the coming months and would love to see lots of people there. The next one in the series will be on 30th September in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, so make a note in your diary now and check out the other dates coming up (shown opposite). This is your chance to grab a high-quality bargain. EMS also welcomes crafters and small businesses interested in taking part to contact them on 086-8399350.

Are you 15-18 years old and looking for something fun to do with your time over the summer...

Are you a fan of musicals and looking to make some new friends?

Then why not join the Enniscorthy Musical Society (EMS) Youth Council! Their upcoming show promises to be great craic! Have your say, have a blast and meet some new people! What more could you want?

Contact EMS for more information and to get involved.

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

To express your interest in this upcoming show just click on this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfmThpeDndeJSMNd7PRmXog01X-pUQoaQ7rDnWQ4ZcaUcx5Gg/viewform?fbclid=IwAR3_RmncsdU2rZNQFiGZ_4hvzwZ_KOV21kuPfV2D NA_ro4-dRgFDzvmLIVA n

Info night and auditions

An information night for Happy Days, A New Musical will take place on the 19th September at 8pm followed by auditions on 1st October.

The Society has been “blown away by the response to our registration of interest form so far, but if you haven't already done it, get yours completed now!!! Closing date is the 20th September but why put off until tomorrow that which you can do today! Go on... fill in the form, and be a part of this energetic, fun show! You know you want to.”

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/ 1FAIpQLSfmThpeDndeJSMNd7PRm

Xog01XpUQoaQ7rDnWQ4ZcaUcx5Gg/viewform?fbclid=IwAR3faitA-9K8kCzNlLJ -dG41wU3D_xiEd9aqFEdWK_n8CmIRhe4w2npfGE

Enniscorthy Rockin' Food and Fru

Local creatives from Wexford Media and Into d’Groove made a beeline for the Rockin’ element of the festival for the music content, with photographer Damien Smullen and videographer Dorn Simon capturing the jive action, bands and atmosphere.

Highlights for us were on the Rockshore Market Square Main Stage: The Mons Wheeler Band playing the Roy Orbison Experience, local talent Alan Power & The Aftershocks who never fail to deliver crisp, groovin’ rock ‘n’ roll, and are natural born entertainers and gathered a huge and very excited audience to interact with (once again, Alan is not an Elvis cover artist!).

The Bellefords are not only glamorous, keeping with the 1950s rebel flair and elegance, but their voices are three of the strongest in the genre. A surprising guest spot during the Alan Power set was the tuneful and harmonious the New Tones from Italy.

Over the Slaney, TJ Murphy’s hosted rock ‘n’ roll rhythm from locals The Backbeats, and the ever-successful Jam Session with a delightfully mixed bag of talented musicians mixing it up and swapping it around, bringing all the jivers to rock ‘n’ roll town.

Late Sunday night at the Riverside Park Hotel, UK Rockabilly legends The Jets gave us a grand end for the busy day, with Livestock Davies and Graham Fenton from England/Wales warming up the stage beforehand.

As always, it is hard to be everywhere at once, so mentions go out to the other bands who graced our town that weekend –The Due-Tones, Barry Darcy, The Bopalulaz, The Moonrockers, Marc Pumford, The Tommy Guns, The Scalder City Slicks, Timebomb, The Moonshakers, The Whiskey Boot Kickers, Inside Out, Billy Edwards, Livestock Davies & The Low Down Snakes, and of course the DJs throughout the weekend, DJ

Vince, DJ Korkie, DJ Lewis Boogie, DJs Domo & Moe. The ever-pleasant and efficient MC Kav Kavanagh, and last but not least, none of this could happen without Eamonn Doyle, Richie Cotter, Jackie Kenny, Dermot Ryan, James Dobbs, Willy O’Rourke, Catherine McKeown, Bernie O’Brien, Maria Nolan, Aileen Carley, Anthony Tinney, Fergus Fay, and all the members of The South-East Rock’n’Roll Club, The Bailey, Hole in the Wall, The Whitehouse, Treacy’s Hotel, Stamps, Holohan’s, Rackards, Antique Tavern, Dawsons, Killowen Farm, Daisy Cottage Farm, Trudie’s Kitchen, Mark Cooke of Enniscorthy Community Allotments, Trudie Power – Wexford Food Family, Zaeire, Wild Soul Kitchen, La Cote, Edward Hayden, Jackford Gin, and the multitude of vendors and stalls, without which sustenance wouldn’t have been maintained, with activities such as the workshops, demos, and cookouts, with none other than celebrity chef Kevin Dundon.

All of the sponsors, organisers and partners including Rockshore, Wexbury, Diageo, Wexford County Council, Catty Town, Enniscorthy & District Chamber of Commerce, Fȧilte Ireland, Ireland’s Ancient East, Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club, Amanda Whitmore, David Martin, Eric Barron, Jimmy Gahan, Aisling Cody, Tom Kelly, Maree Lyng, Enniscorthy Castle, Enniscorthy Credit Union, and Slaney News.

uit Festival 2023

Finally, not forgetting the jivers, the audiences, the families, the kids, and the punters for making the festival atmosphere so much fun.

Looking forward to the 2024 August Bank Holiday Festival already.

– Dorn Simon

Wexfordmedia.com

intodgroovemedia.com n

All Pics courtesy of Damien Smullen, Wexford Media.

Above

Left and

The Jets playing at the Riverside Park Hotel. Below left: The Bellefords.

Bottom row L-R: Kav Kavanagh introduces Alan Power & the Aftershocks. Alan Power & the Aftershocks with harmonies by the New Tones. Alan Power & the Aftershocks joined by the legendary Graham Fenton. The fabulous Moonrockers.

right: Mons Wheeler and band.

below:

Off to a rockin’ start!

The Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival in Enniscorthy got off to a flying start on Friday 4th August and the Slaney News was there to capture the opening night event in Enniscorthy Castle – see photos on this page.

And the weekend continued in that vein leaving behind a trail of satisfied taste buds, joyful memories, and a harmonious blend of culinary and musical experiences. From Friday evening, families gathered on The Promenade for a Fireworks extravaganza, sponsored by the Riverside Park Hotel. Foodies, rock ‘n’ roll fans, and families gathered in Enniscorthy for a weekend filled with food, family fun and rock ‘n’ roll.

The festival was a resounding success, drawing in a diverse crowd that celebrated the fusion of flavours and music. There were 70 food and craft vendors offered everything from delectable street food to exotic international cuisines, attendees wandered the streets and enjoyed a culinary journey that spanned from local food from a variety of Wexford Food Family members to exotic international cuisine. From gourmet burgers that melted in your mouth to tantalising desserts that ignited the senses, the festival's food offerings exceeded expectations.

The Food Marquee was alive all weekend with chef demonstrations from Kevin Dundon, Edward Hayden, Paul Hynes and a range of local chefs and producers.

Wexford Food Family announced their new President Pauline Dunne and attendees were treated to a variety of tastings and talks from their members.

Adding to the festival's vibrant atmosphere were the live music performances that reverberated through the air. Local and international bands and artists took to the stage, delivering captivating performances that had dancers of all ages taking to the dance floor. The synergy between music and food created an ambiance that was nothing short of electric.

Festival Chairman Eric Barron commented, "We're overwhelmed by the incredible response we've received for this year's Rockin' Food & Fruit Festival. It's heartening to see the community come together to celebrate food, music, and camaraderie. The festival's success wouldn't have been possible without the hard work of our team, the participation of talented chefs and musicians, and the enthusiasm of every attendee.”

Above left: At The Official Opening of Enniscorthy’s Rockin` Food & Fruit Festival in Enniscorthy Castle on 4th Augus were Bridget Fortune, chef Kevin Dundon and Winnie O’Connor. Above: Members of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enac Society with chef Kevin Dundon. Far left: Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival Chairman Eric Barron with Festival Organi Amanda Whitmore. Below Left: Kevin Lawlor representing Enniscorthy Credit Union. Below: Bridget and Aislinn Cody and Cllr John O’Rourke, Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District.

The festival created a storm on social media, with attendees sharing mouthwatering food pictures, dance videos, and heartfelt testimonials. The official hashtag, #RockinFoodFestival trended throughout the event, capturing the essence of the festival's vibrant spirit.

As the sun set on this year's Festival, anticipation already mounts for next year's edition. The organisers are committed to making each year bigger and better, promising an even more unforgettable experience in the future.

Rock ‘n’ Roll music promoter Eamonn Doyle added, “Enniscorthy has proved once again why this is a Rock ‘n’ Roll town. We had performers in their teens and Graham Fenton in his 70s all connected by the sheer passion of Rockin’ music. As a town we have a unique position now in a global culture that has been here for 70 years, here’s to the next 70.” Festival Organiser Amanda Whitmore thanked everyone for coming along to support the festival and added, “Without the support from our sponsors, we couldn’t put on such a great event. We are grateful for the support of Wexford County Council, Ireland’s Ancient East, Failte Ireland, Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy Credit Union, Wexford Food Family, Wexbury and Big H Plumbing. In addition to that, we have so many Friends of the Festival who we thank from the bottom of our hearts for their continued support. n

Left: Politicians, Festival organisers, and Council officials with chef Kevin Dundon who did the official opening.

Above: Sylvia Kelly, Cllr Jackser Owens and Catherine McKeown.

L-R: Richie Cotter, Amanda Whitmore, Aislinn Cody, Jimmy Gahan, Eric Barron, Kevin Dundon and Maree Lyng.

Above and below: Rock ‘n’ roll in full swing at the Opening Night.

A beautiful array of local food.

To buy copies of any of the photos on these pages, tel: 087-2403310 or email slaneynews@gmail.com

A paradise

Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival, August Bank Holiday Weekend, 2023.

Above left: Getting steamed up awaiting his customers was Steven Goode of the Goode Life Stand.

Above centre: Gustavo preparing food at the Casa d’Galo stand.

Above right: Brian Buckley and John Cunningham with their Country Grill finger-licking chicken like you’ve never had it before.

Above far right: A bird’s eye view.

Left: The Wexford Food Family Marquee hosted chef Edward Hayden and his cookery demo.

Right: The "Cyclone Potato" stand with Carmel Reynolds flat out cooking.

Far right: Traditional cones were in great demand.

Below L-R:

1. Enjoying the huge variety of food on offer.

2. The Farm Shop display by Darren Rossiter.

3. A taste of the good stuff as Nadine Loeffler samples the new Wexbury Rose drink with Hilda Kavanagh at the Wexbury stand.

4. Chef Kevin Dundon gets a happy young volunteer, Alexia Peddar, to try out one of his beautifully cooked mussels.

for foodies

Enniscorthy Rockin' Food and Fruit Fun for all ages

To buy copies of any of the photos on these pages, email slaneynews@gmail.c

Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival, 6th August 20

Left: After braving the Big Wheel, Aine and Niamh O’Loughlin need a drink!

Above: Taking to the Waltzer were Ava and Bernadette Kehoe.

Above right: All the fun of the fair in Abbey Square where the Waltzer was very popula Harper, Icenzie and Kenneth O’Leary getting ready to spin.

Below left: The Big Wheel awaits for Finn and Caoimhe O’Leary.

Below centre: The crowd watching the final of the jiving competition.

Right: Billy, Joe, Glen, Ava Kinsella. Bottom left: The Jive Final winners Gerry and Paula D

Bottom centre: When it comes to jiving there’s no age restrictions.

Bottom right: Some rock ‘n’ roll experts showing how it’s done.

Far right top 3. Family da

t Festival 2023 –

p to bottom: 1. Enjoying the ride. 2. Junior competitors in the jiving competition.

ay out for Joey, Mary, PA, and Sophie. 4. Belting out the rockabilly – Billy Edwards.

Rockin’ at Enniscorthy

ABSENTH

Photos by Damien Smullen, Wexford Media.

ALIENS IN CAVE

Photos by Damien Smullen, Wexford Media.

Presentation Centre

15th July 2023

NO HASSLE

Photos by Damien Smullen, Wexford Media.

RECOIL

Photos by Damien Smullen, Wexford Media.

Riverside Park Hotel –lots to look forward to

A fantastic line up of events over the coming months at the Riverside Park Hotel: 9th Nov - Johnny McEvoy, 10th Jan 2024 - The Three Amigos, 1st Feb 2024 - Michael English. Tickets from hotel reception or online at www.riversideparkhotel.com/in-house-events Overnight packages also available including tickets and accommodation. n

https://www.facebook.com/Knowhowmediaagency

Above left: Richie Cotter and Maria Nolan enjoying the launch. Above right: Eamonn Ellis, Dermot Byrne and Richie Cotter. Check out the great launch night video: https://www.facebook.com/reel/840594280976385 https://www.facebook.com/Knowhowmediaagency

The Festival Library Session this year is from the "Damn fine Blues" musicianship of Austin Walkin' Cane – Wire & Wood Blues on Thursday, 7th September at 7pm in Enniscorthy Library. Limited spaces available, click the link to book!

https://www.facebook.com/events/ 974800173754988/?ref=newsfeed

Launching the Blackstairs Blues Festival in Stamp’s Pub, Enniscorthy, 24th August 2023, committee members with some of the local publicans who will be hosting the gigs. Pic: Know-How Media Agency

Austin Walkin' Cane

Gorey Community School Graduation

22nd August 2023

Gorey Community School Graduation Ball attendees gathered at the school on 22nd August 2023 before heading to the Riverbank House Hotel, Wexford.

Above left: Cian Gilbert and Katie Corish.

Above centre: Morgan Hargreeves and Reece O’Donnell.

Above right: LJ Donnelly and Alex Tutty. Left: Arianna Golasko with her parents Gertrope and Edgars.

Below left: Jack Kenny and Ava Carroll.

Below centre: Tara O’Connor.

Below right: Ashley Bolton and Sean Doyle.

To buy copies of photos on this page, email slaneynews@gmail.com

Above left: Aibhín Kenny and Jasmin Mulvary.

Above centre: Cathriona Tully and Shane Meleady.

Above right: Erin McKevitt and Ciara McNamara. Right: Sarah Kearney and Adam Kilroy.

Below left: Padraic Baxter and Megan Tomkins.

Below centre: Paulina Kielczykowska and Kayleigh Redmond Tomlans travelled in style in a VW Beetle.

Below right: Sinead Breen and Matt Naessens.

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE Movie Review with Kyle Walsh 

I can’t believe I’m only getting around to doing a review for this film. I had a great time with this one – Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning Part 1.

I went to see this on its first night in Wexford Omniplex on the Maxx screen, the only way to watch the big releases and believe me this is a big release, although it didn’t hit the numbers at the box office they thought it would, it was still a decent return. Its run time is 2 hours 45 minutes but it honestly felt like 90 minutes watching it. The pace is amazing. To start with, I personally am a huge Tom Cruise fan. I only judge him as a entertainer and by God he entertains in all his movies. I respect the way he does all his own stunts and the way he wants movies to be seen on the big screen and for audiences not to be sitting at home waiting for these films to come out on streaming. He has a huge love and appreciation for film. He once confessed he watches a film every day.

Some people don’t like him because of his involvement with Scientology and not having a relationship with his daughter. Yes, I do confess when you take the time to look at him as a person he is strange and I don’t agree with some of his ways but as I said earlier I judge him as an entertainer. He always produces the goods. That’s why no matter what anyone thinks of him he is still the biggest movie star on the planet. Hard to believe he is 61. It’s younger and fitter he’s getting. He must have the most recogni-

sable run in the world and he is flatout running in this film too. A Tom Cruise film wouldn’t be a film without him running in it.

I have loved these films from the very first one up to this latest one. Some of the best action movies out there. The stunts gets more dangerous with each entry with this one being one of the top tier stunts we have had yet where we see Ethan Hunt (Cruise) jumping off a mountain on a bike. To see it unfold in front of you on the big screen is one of the best moments of cinema – it’s truly awe dropping.

The film itself is simple enough, Ethan’s new enemy is AI. The superpowers of the world are wanting it. There’s a key that comes in two halves that can control it. Hunt and his team have to get this half of the key before it’s too late. The plot has many twists and turns to keep the audience guessing all the way to the end. The action is an unbelievable achievement and a great accomplishment for cinema. It’s technically perfect. Jaw dropping music score with gorgeous cinematography in every location throughout the film.

This new enemy is frightening and makes you think about where our society, our world is going. Christopher McQuarrie proves he is a great action director. The final 20 minutes on a train is honestly one of, if not the greatest, action sequence I have ever seen. My heart was pounding. Hands buried in the cinema seats. Leaving me breathless. It is unbelievable. I can’t speak highly enough of this film. Without doubt the best action film of 2023. An absolute triumph. Please check it out people, it gets 10/10 from me.

Let Mr Cruise strap you in his car and take you on an adventure of a lifetime.

Country Fest Wexford

Three photos above: Some of the audience enjoying the craic. Left: Sinead McGowan, Jimmy Fortune and Mary Healy.

Right: Sisters Geraldine Bradley, Liz Bradley and Mary Murray from Adamstown. All pics: Declan Roche.

To buy copies of photos on this page, email slaneynews@gmail.com

Selskar College Graduation 9th

Aug 2023

Top left: Dylan Curran and Leah O’Toole. Top right: Lilly Jones and Shamrath Flynn. Above left: Cody Ho and Saoirse O’Brien. Above centre: Ellie Hayden and Callum Bierney. Above right: Old school mates from start to finish Darragh Farrell and Joshua Browne. Below left: Aidan Dempsey and Sophie Roche. Below: Cora Tyghe, Sarah Pitman, Brian Gray, Keira Gallagher and Ola Zwierzchawska. Bottom left: Cathlin Peare and Charlene Kehoe. Bottom centre: Holly McKenna and Devin Pitman.

Wexford CBS Graduation

Riverbank Hotel Wexford 10th Aug 2023

Top left: Ellie Whelan and Steve McDonald. Top right: Jack Shiggins and Rhiannon Healy.

Above left: Corey White and Carys Jones. Above centre: Darragh Corish and Jessie Byrne. Above right: Darragh Kelly and Abby Murphy.

Above L-R: 1. Alex Gregg and Rebecka Nagel. 2. Killian Whelan and Amy O’Connor. 3. Zoe Zanwaki and Sam Moore. 4. Megan Romaszowskyj and Conor Creane. Below L-R: 1. Callum Farrell and Zoe Murphy. 2.John O’Connor and Dóire Hurley. 3. Aoibheann Murphy and Lily O’Gorman. 4. Dean Glynn and Ava Meade.

Above left: Beginning the Leo Carthy Weekend Fun Run at Lady’s Island Community Centre.

Above right: Making pancakes, Maria Mullins, Teresa Rea and Eileen Burke.

Left: Conor White at the Vintage Tractor Run.

Right: At the Vintage Tractor Run, Verona Murphy TD, Michael Carthy, Cllr. Frank Staples and Cllr Ger Carthy.

Left: Young Ollie Johnston gets behind the wheel at the Vintage Tractor Run.

Below left: Loughlan Druhan, Lorcan Steward and John Lambert.

Below centre: Cealan Corish tries out a Massey Ferguson.

Below right: Mika Daly tries out a David Brown tractor.

Leo Carthy

Our Lady’s Island, We

exford, 5-6th August 2023

Top left: Some of the helpers and organisers of the weekend.

Top right: Willie Day ready for the Vintage Tractor Run.

Above left: Verona Murphy TD, John Redmond, Pat Doyle, John Flynn, Cllr Frank Staples and Cllr. Ger Carthy.

Above right: Remembering the good old days, Tom McCormack. Below left: Willie Reid has seen it all before.

Below right: All set for the Run.

Hits from the Musicals

The much-anticipated Wexford Light Opera Society (WLOS) ‘Hits from The Musicals’ 2023 will take place from Monday 30th October to Thursday 2nd November 2023 inclusive, during the Wexford Opera Festival. The venue is Clayton Whites Hotel, and the show will commence at 8pm.

Featuring a blend of timeless classics and contemporary gems from the world of Musical Theatre. The show will feature the renowned chorus of the Wexford Light Opera Society, as well as a variety of soloists who regularly perform or have performed with the Society over the years.

The production team is:

Musical Director - David Hayes

Director - Stephen Byrne

Chorus Mistress - Eithne Corrigan

Master of Ceremonies:

Catherine "Biddy" Walsh

‘Hits from The Musicals’ is the highlight of the Opera Festival Fringe Events and is not to be missed!

Booking Details:

Tickets on sale at the National Opera House and cost €25 each.

Box Office Opening Hours:

Monday to Saturday - 9:30-17:00

By telephone: 053 9122144

Online: www.nationaloperahouse.ie

Associate Member or Friend of WLOS:

Associate membership and Friend

Membership runs from 1st November (or the date you join) until 31st October each year. The cost of being an Associate Member is €10 or a Friend Membership is €90, contact the Box Office to become an Associate Member or Friend of WLOS or email: info@wlos.ie

Keep up to date:

Facebook: @wexfordlightoperasociety

Instagram: @ wexford_light_opera_society

Email: info@wlos.ie

Website: www.wlos.ie n

The next full production by the Wexford Light Opera Society (WLOS) will be the fabulous West End and Broadway favourite The Phantom of the Opera which will be staged next year at the National Opera House, Wexford, from 29th April to the 4th May 2024.

The Society is thrilled to have secured the rights to this wonderful musical by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber which is packed with musical favourites such as: The Phantom of the Opera; The Music of the Night and All I Ask of You.

Wexford Light Opera Society is delighted to announce the production team for this highly anticipated 2024 production:

Director: Christine Scarry. Music Director: David Hayes.

Chorus Mistress: Eithne Corrigan. Choreographer: Thérése O’Sullivan. n

Bailey Laughs Comedy Club is very proud to announce its September show – For One Night Only, on the 29th of September, one of the most highly anticipated comedy tours will make its Co. Wexford debut: "Immigration Is A Joke".

Appearing on the night, according to the organisers, are “three of the greatest imports since Spuds, Shifting and Aldi”.

For the first time in Irish Comedy history, three of Ireland's top foreign comedians are coming together in Enniscorthy as part of

Successful slimming

Enniscorthy slimmers can choose from a huge range of classes provided by Tony McCann and Trish Dagg.

See page 113 for full details of classes.

And if you follow a gluten-free diet, you’ll have more than 1,000 delicious recipes to choose from on the member app and website: https://www.slimmingworld.co.uk/blog/slimming-world-gluten-freerecipes/?fbclid=IwAR0EBbcEUyF9OYapJmPPCEjVl ZhyjfHhT8amZsX6HoFlJ7SnEvBDzRJZbig n

their schedule to perform in every county in Ireland.

Neil Green (South Africa), Malinda Perera (Sri Lanka) and Lesly Martinez (Venezuela) present a comedy show to have you in stitches whether you are Irish or an immigrant. Doors open 8pm, show starts 8:30pm. Tickets: €15 online, €20 at the door.

Get in touch: baileylaughscomedy@gmail.com

Updates: https://www.facebook.com/baileylaughscomedy n

Tony McCann and Trish Dagg

Above left: Molly Casey won 1st Prize in the Junior Section for Handcrafts.

Above centre: Castlebridge School Junior Section, Giange Ranjith was second in the Custom Jewellery category.

Above right: Breda Conroy was first in the Tart section being presented with the Jim Kinsella Memorial Cup from Deirdre Ronan with Show Chairman Jimmy Nolan.

Left: Relaxing at the show were Anna and Petra Maria.

Right: In a buying mood were Josie O’Connor with Mai Murphy and Phyllis Davis.

Below left: Animal lovers Kayla Keupicka and Liam Morris of Blackwater Open Farm.

Below: Grace Redmond in Fancy Dress with her aunt Mary Redmond.

Bottom left: Young Grace Redmond has more than one aunt – Bernie Redmond.

Bottom centre: Elaine Doyle and Ellie O’Brien at the Scarecrow Section.

CASTLEBRIDG

To buy copies of photos on this page, email: slaneyn

GE HORTICULTURAL SHOW

13th August 2023

Top centre: Theresa Hogan 2nd in the Art Section with her Cow in background.

Top right: Young Izzy Whitty was set for the Fancy Dress with dad Nicky.

Above left: Evelyn Murphy and Anne Stephens relaxing at the Show.

Above centre: A handsome farmer with lady friend Phyllis Gordon. Above right: Lucia and Kathleen Halpin.

Left: Wexford Fife and Drum band entertains the crowd.

Right: Young Emmet Butler was 1st in the Sun Flower section with Martin Flood.

Below left: Not looking too scared – Eileen, Margaret and Marie Walsh.

Below centre: All dressed up and awaiting the Fancy Dress show are Lainey, Ellie and Gabriel Marshall.

Below right: Flowers of all shapes and sizes on display at the Show.

Top left: Yvonne Murphy with her mam Kay Murphy, winner of 1st Prize in the Handcraft section.

Co. Wexford wins big at All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil

Over 5,000 competitors from all over Ireland and overseas played, sung or danced for Comhaltas All Ireland titles at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2023 in Mullingar last month.

From storytelling to concertina, sets to lilting, victors of regional competitions travelled far and wide to compete in one or more of the 230 competitions. The competitions play a central role in the Fleadh and title holders are highly regarded in the traditional Irish music community.

Wexford Winners:

9C Orgán Béil / Mouth Organ (15-18)

3rd. Mairtin Mac Oda, CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford

10B Bainseó / Banjo (12-15) 1st. Billy Cunningham, CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford

11B Maindilín / Mandolin (12-15) 3rd. Billy Cunningham, CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford

20A Foinn Mhalla, Feadóg Mhór / Flute Slow Airs (Faoi 12) 1st. Evelyn Gilbane,

Flying the flag for Co. Wexford at the 2023 Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Mullingar.

CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford 3rd. Aoife Doyle, CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford

21A Foinn Mhalla, Feadóg / Whistle Slow Airs (Faoi 12) 2nd. Evelyn Gilbane, CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford

21C Foinn Mhalla, Feadóg / Whistle Slow Airs (15-18) 2nd. Florence Donohoe, CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford

22D Foinn Mhalla, Cruit / Harp Slow Airs (O18) 3rd. Michelle O'Grady, CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford

25A Bannaí Céilí / Céilí Band (Faoi 12) 3rd. Bannow, CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford

26D Grúpaí Ceoil (O18) 2nd. Craanhill, CCÉ, Tuaisceart Loch Garman, Wexford

29F Bannaí Máirseála, Rogha Ghléas / Miscellaneous Marching Bands (Faoi 18) 2nd. St Kevins, CCÉ, Ferns, Wexford

32B Amhránaíocht ar an Sean Nós (Fir) / Irish Singing (Men) (12-15) 1st. Sean Ó Caomhanaigh, CCÉ, Croabh Loch Garman, Wexford

34B English Singing (Men) / Amhráin

Bhéarla (Fir) (12-15) 1st. Chulainn Ni Fhaolain, CCÉ, Tuaisceart Loch Garman, Wexford 2nd. Sean Ó Caomhanaigh, CCÉ, Craobh Loch Garman, Wexford

34C English Singing (Men) / Amhráin

Bhéarla (Fir) (15-18) 3rd. Cillian Cullen, CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford

35A Feadaíl / Whistling (Faoi 12) 1st. Aoife Doyle, CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford

40D Rince Céilí Ochtair, Mná / 8-Hand Céilí Dancing, Ladies (O18) 1st. CCÉ, Ferns, Wexford

49I Comhrá Gaeilge (11-13) 2nd. Siofra Willoughy, CCÉ, Tuaisceart Loch Garman, Wexford

49K Comhrá Gaeilge (15-18) 1st. Eire Ní Fhaolain, CCÉ, Tuaisceart Loch Garman, Wexford

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 will take place in Wexford town on 4th - 11th August 2024.

For all the results and further details on the Fleadh and competitions, visit www.fleadhcheoil.ie

Above left: Billy Cunningham of CCÉ, Bannow, Co. Wexford 1st Place All Ireland Winner for the Banjo, “Stephen Conroy Cup” (12-15 years).

Above centre: Michelle O'Grady of CCÉ, Bannow, Co. Wexford, 3rd Place All Ireland Winner for the Harp Slow Airs (Over 18).

Above right: Evelyn Gilbane of CCÉ, Bannow, Co. Wexford, 1st Place All Ireland Winner for the Flute Slow Airs "Catherine O’Grady Cup" (Under 12) and 2nd Place All Ireland Winner for Whistle Slow Airs (Under 12). Pics: Anna Allen Photography Mullingar.

Elvis and The Big Bopper return in Rock 'N' Roll To The Rescue – A musical by Adrienne Murphy

Following its sold-out run last year, Rock 'N' Roll to the Rescue returns by popular demand for another run in aid of Pieta. Dates are 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th of October in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy.

Are you ready for a night of live music that will have you rocking in the aisles in aid of Pieta House? Well here it is folks, the Rock 'N' Roll show that tells the story of a young Elvis and JP Richardson. Trapped in small town America can they use their

Rock 'N' Roll to save themselves?

With a host of lovable, crazy characters, and music that will have you hopping off The Presentation Arts Centre's walls, don't miss out on Rock 'N' Roll To The Rescue. Featuring songs like Stuck On You, Hound Dog, Big Hunk O' Love, Chapel Of Love and many, many more!

Ticket €15 + €1.50 booking/development fee. n

ENNISCORTHY RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION

Enniscorthy Retirement Association’s first meeting following the summer break will take place on Tuesday 5th September at 2.30pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.

Guest speaker will be Rachel Uí Fhaoláin who is a traditional singer, folklore collector, researcher, and educator. Rachel would love to hear from anyone who is an artist or is aware of a group involved with artists on community projects. She is also a community artist and is always exploring new ways and ideas of working with groups across Wexford.

At the meeting, the proposed visit to Glendalough on 19th or 20th September will be finalised. Trip includes bus, lunch, entry into visitor centre, tea and cake at the Community Centre in Laragh. Places are still available and if interested sign up and pay on Tuesday 5th September.

The short break to Cork in November will be finalised at the meeting also. Please note that at the time of going to press there are still four seats available. Future proposed outings for the rest of the year including a trip to Avondale, lunches at various venues and theatre trips to Dublin and Wexford will be discussed.

All other activities are resuming after the summer break including Line Dancing on Monday, Bowls, the Monthly Quiz, Ramblers Hillwalking, the Easy Local Walk on the Riverside Prom, and Pitch and Putt.

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

New members are welcome to attend the meetings. See Enniscorthy Retirement Association Facebook Page or email enniscorthyretirementassociation@outlook.com

A new website is under construction, and it is hoped to have it online soon. n

There will be a premiere screening on Friday 15th September of Wexford man Nic Furlong’s new film Lola in the Wexford Arts Centre before it hits the film festivals nationwide and internationally.

The screening will be followed by a Q&A with Elizabeth Whyte (Director of Wexford Arts Centre) and some of the cast and crew.

Book on www.wexfordartscentre.ie or phone 053 9123764. Tickets €10 plus booking fee, with the proceeds going to charity.

Lola is a short film which focuses on heroin abuse in Ireland, particularly among the young. It showcases how it affects individuals and their families. This is a very tough story told through the eyes of a heroin addict in her 20’s and a seventeen-year-old boy who has come into her life to save her, so it seems. Or is it her that is saving him?

Tickets: €10 each with the proceeds going to charity. n

Julie Fox is a qualified Yoga teacher and is at Master Teacher level in Reiki. She is focusing on Yoga and Holistics full time and studying Alternative Therapies. She holds an Advanced Diploma in Psychotherapy & Hypnotherapy, and has 20 years experience as a Social Care practitioner. The always-busy Julie also runs retreats under the name ‘Fox&Hen Retreats’ at the beautiful Sweetfarm Studios, Kilcarbry Cottage, just five minutes from Enniscorthy (check it out on Facebook and Instagram). Writing is another one of Julie’s interests, ‘Sharing my writing in a way that brings healing, laughter and inspiration to others, is a huge passion of mine.’ This monthly column allows Julie to share her love of both yoga and writing. Julie has also set up a new page on Instagram where she will be sharing her poetry under 'jew_elz23'

DOWNWARD DOG

Downward Dog Pose otherwise known as Adho Mukha Shvanasana is a standing yoga pose where you stretch the whole body on all fours, similar to the way a dog stretches, hence the name. It acts as a transitional pose and can also be a resting pose in between a yoga sequence particularly the Sun Salutation. Downward Dog is an easy pose to do for any Yoga newbie and students can also use a chair, wall,

bolster as a support if they are not comfortable putting their hands fully down to the floor. You can explore countless variations of this posture for different levels of ability and make it work for your individual needs.

This pose has many holistic benefits for both mind and body. Aside from the physical benefits, there is also the emotional. As we go upside down in this pose we slow the chattering of the mind by stimulating the parasympathetic nerves. The fact that Downward Dog is an inverted pose helps us to see the world at a different angle and approach situations in a different way. Stretching the spine helps to reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to become more open and energised. It improves digestion, promotes blood circulation, strengthens bones, flexibility in the hamstrings and strengthens the core. Try practising for 510 minutes 2-3 times a day and see the difference for yourself.

How to do Downward Dog

To note: This pose can be modified to suit your needs. Use a chair, keep knees bent etc. Remember everybody’s body is different with different alignments. Always support yourself throughout the practice and focus on the breath which is more important than squeezing and forcing yourself into a posture that can cause injury.

1. Get down on all fours (table top), hands and knees hip distance apart, hips above the knees, hands in line with the shoulders, palms pushed into the mat, fingers spread apart. Place all your weight out through the fingers and do not dump into the wrists.

2. Head is neutral. Push into the pad of the hands and fingers and tuck the toes. Bend and push into the knees as you lift yourself up. Legs can straighten here or if it is more comfortable keep them slightly bent.

3. The head drops as the buttocks tilt up towards the ceiling. Ears are in line with the elbows, relaxed shoulders. Pull in the naval and breathe, inhale and exhale. Stay for 1 or 2 breaths and on the next exhale bend the knees slowly and bring the knees and body back into table top (starting position).

4. Practice, practice, practice, breathe, breathe, breathe.

Namaste.

If you would like to attend any of my classes or retreats please check out my page ‘Yoga with Julie’ & ‘FoxandHen Retreats’ on Facebook and Instagram. Next retreat is 24th of September in Sweetfarm Studios, Kilcarbry, Enniscorthy.

086 0263713

Facebook:

‘Yoga With Julie’

Drop-in Yoga classes €15, or 5-week block for €60, suitable for Beginner-Intermediate levels at: Galbally Community Centre, Mondays at 7pm. Sweetfarm Studios, Kilcarbry Cottage, Enniscorthy, Thursdays at 7pm. The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, Mondays at 10am. Bloomfield Manor, Enniscorthy, Y21 HY23, Tuesdays at 10am.

From the Slaney to the Yukon!

On Saturday 26th August I was very happy to have my third book From the Slaney to the Yukon launched at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, by my very good friend and bestselling author Carmel Harrington.

Thank you to Chairman of Enniscorthy District Council John O`Rourke, Councillor Kathleen Codd-Nolan, and Chairman of Enniscorthy Chamber of Commerce Michael Dempsey for being present at the event.

Thank you to my mother, my husband, and members of my family for their continued support and to members of Enniscorthy Drama, Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society, and friends from Wexford Literary Festival for turning up to offer encouragement and patronage.

And a most sincere thank you to all the friends and readers who humbled me with their presence on the night.

Special thanks to my friend, Literary Festival colleague and wonderful literary talent Carmel Harrington, for her very kind words and her generous endorsement of the words in my books The Shadow of the Hill, The Shadow of Freedom and From the Slaney to the Yukon.

Thank you to author Caroline Busher for taking time to read my transcript and

supply me with a beautiful quote for the back cover: ‘An absolutely enthralling novel. Gripping to the very last page. Maria Nolan is an exceptional writer who has the gift of bringing history to life.’

Thank you to my talented illustrator, and magical artist Larry Dunne, who turns all my books into works of art.

Thank you to friends Frank Corcoran and Annie Gilpin without whom the book would never have been published and to Damian Byrne of Easons and Wally O`Neill of Red Books for stocking From the Slaney to the Yukon.

Thank you to members of the press –Darragh Clifford and John Walsh of Enniscorthy Guardian, and Frank Corcoran, Slaney News, and to Dan Walsh and Alan Corcoran of South East Radio for their promotion of me and all things literary.

Thank you to the staff of The Presentation Centre – Manager Lisa Byrne, Larry Dunne, Emily Kelly, and others who are always obliging, courteous, and accommodating.

From the Slaney to the Yukon is a tale of love set against the backdrop of history and two rivers, the Slaney and the Yukon and the ghosts that forever drift upon their waters.

The story came to me on a long-wished-

for excursion to Alaska in 2022, where I had the distinct pleasure of visiting Skagway and the Red Onion Brothel Saloon Museum.

Madame Rosie Peaks, our tour guide, told many colourful tales of the escapades of the Good Time Gals of the 1898 Yukon Gold Rush.

One of those stories resonated with me, and I thought, I could write a book about that and give it an Enniscorthy twist.

A bit of a deviation from my other two books The Shadow of the Hill and The Shadow of Freedom, but nevertheless packed with the history of 1895 Ireland, the Carews of Castleboro, Belgavia and high society London, the Irish slums of New York in 1897 and the Yukon Gold Rush of 1898.

It is a novel, but all historical facts are to the very best of my knowledge and research, true.

I do hope you will all enjoy the circuitous journey my characters William and Lydia Warren, Sam Kidd and Molly Doyle, take from Clonroche and Castleboro to the gold fields of the Yukon.

Books are on sale at Eason’s stores in Enniscorthy, Wexford and Gorey and at Red Books in Wexford and Gorey.

Thank you

L-R: Cathy Keane, Caroline Busher, Maria Nolan (author of ‘From the Slaney to the Yukon’), and Carmel Harrington who launched the book.

Maria Nolan

Enniscorthy Municipal District Chairman John O’Rourke with Maria Nolan at the launch.

Above and below: Family, friends and well-wishers gathered at The Presentation Centre on 26th August 2023 to wish Maria Nolan well with the launch of her third novel, ‘From the Slaney to the Yukon’.

Enniscorthy Drama Group celebrates

10th anniversary

12th August in the IFA Centre – see report on pages 60-61

All smiles at the celebrations!

Another award for local film

The recently made Enniscorthy film The Shadow of Freedom based on Maria Nolan’s book of the same name has picked up another award, this time for Best Actress at the Bucharest International Film Festival – congratulations to Fiona McDermot.

Fintan’s drama and improv classes

L-R: Maria Nolan (writer), Fiona McDermot (Best Actress winner), Jer Ennis (producer), Dick Donaghue (director).

Above left: Luke Corrigan and Chloe O’Toole. Above: Schoolmates enjoying their Presentation Secondary School Graduation day.

bby Halligan and Aoibheann Murphy. Ryan Ellard and Suzie White. Chloe Horgan and Mell Chapman. Jacob Pierce and Dione Bright-Bergin. Fitzpatrick and Gie Coyne. Caroline, Kate and David Murray. Orlaith O’Hanlon and Drooke Anderson. Patrick Duggan and Caoimhe Naessens.

Young Wexford artist on show in Japan

A prizewinning artwork chosen from this year’s 69th Texaco Children’s Art Competition entitled ‘The Points Race’, by 17-year old Sarah McLoughlin (17), from Bridgetown College, was one of four Irish paintings exhibited at the 24th International High School Arts Festival which took place in Tokyo recently. Sponsored by the International Foundation for Arts and Culture, the International High School Arts Festival is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious exhibitions to take place in Tokyo annually. Described as ‘a showcase for the world’s best young artistic talent’, it featured some 500 artworks by students from around the world.

Enniscorthy Book Club

Check out the club’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthybookclub n

Wexford’s art collection

Check out Wexford Co. Council’art collection on: http://wexfordcountycouncilartcollection.com n

on at Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely

Lots

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES

Pic: Terence White.

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

Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.

The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000

The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529

Slaney Writers

The Slaney Writers group is returning to Enniscorthy Library after the summer break on Thursday 14th September at 6.30pm. The group meets on the second Thursday of every month. New members are always welcome. If you are interested please contact Enniscorthy Library on 053 9236055. n

Wexford County Council Arts Department and Wexford Arts Centre in partnership with South East Technological University are pleased to announce a call for applications for the EMERGENCE Visual Art Award 2023.

The deadline for receipt of email submissions is Thursday 21st September, 2023.

About the Award

This award will be presented biannually to one visual artist based in Ireland. Produced under the guidance of Curator Catherine Bowe, the award has a monetary value of €15,000 and includes additional mentorship support over the award cycle and a solo exhibition at Wexford Arts Centre in September 2025.

Please read the application process and eligibility criteria carefully before submitting your application.

Application

The term ‘emergence’ connects to the central purpose of this award which is to support visual artists with the development and promotion of their practice. The award is open to artists of any age with a third level visual arts education and three years of post-graduate experience or the equivalent in self-guided practice.

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

and where appropriate, be site-specific. Applicants should also consider the context of Wexford County and how they might engage with Arts Campus of the South East Technological University in their proposal.

Who Can Apply?

Notably, the award is aimed at artists at the earlier stages of their careers or those re-engaging in their practice after a period of time or absence. However, we welcome interest from artists who may have previously created and publicly presented a modest body of independent works and are eager to progress in their professional and creative development. In addition, artists who demonstrate innovative experimentation in their practice are encouraged to apply.

Award Opportunities

Facilitated by Wexford Arts Centre, the award winner will have the opportunity to link with the Arts Campus of the South East Technological University and will be encouraged to develop connections over the period of the award. As part of this new partnership, South East Technological University will offer the award winner self-directed opportunities to engage with the staff and students and also avail of practical resources such as studio space and access to equipment for a period. The artist will have the opportunity to potentially collaborate with students or staff to realize their work in a mutually beneficial research or production capacity and partake in the Visiting Lecture Series.

Click here for a full brief, gallery plans and images: https://www.emergenceaward.ie/application-process.html n

So Say So is a monthly event focusing on poetry, storytelling and music hosted by poet Stephen James Smith. Each month a renowned poet will headline and be accompanied by local musician Ian Doyle (The Man Whom).

There will also be a 5-Word-Challenge open mic section, which is open to all (but strictly limited to 5 minutes per performer on a first come first served basis).

This space will be for all, no matter where you're from or what age. The use of the Irish language is encouraged as is any other language people may speak. All styles and genres are welcome –poetry, rap, spoken word, monologues, storytelling and songwriters. n

Vibes - Disco Night with DJ Ronan Buggy

13th Oct 2023 and 1st Dec 2023, 7-10pm. Wexford Arts Centre, Admission €5, PAs Free Entry. Disco Night with DJ and VJ Ronan Buggy and guest DJ/VJs. A night for Adults with intellectual disabilities, family and friends.

‘Interference’ at Wexford Arts Centre

System Interference

A solo exhibition by Micheál O’Connell / Mocksim

In partnership with West Cork Arts Centre

On display in the lower gallery at Wexford Arts Centre, Cornmarket, Wexford, Y35 X5HF

Tuesday 22 August –

Wednesday 4 October 2023

Micheál O’Connell a.k.a. Mocksim’s practice involves ‘interference’ with everyday functional processes and technologies including computational networks, road systems, windfarms, golf courses, and the unusual sport of road bowling. The work touches on environmental concerns, the democracy or lack of it in decision-making, and what is given priority and what is not. A range of works including printed material, sound recordings, and Micheál’s signature ‘simupoems’ – short moving image pieces which play in loop mode – will be included in the exhibition. In addition, interactive elements and ways in which the exhibition might reach beyond the gallery will be considered.

In the past, O’Connell’s work has been presented in project spaces and establishments such as Matt’s Gallery and The Whitechapel, London, UK, Lighthouse, Brighton, UK, and Wandesford Quay Gallery, Cork. Contra-Invention, a critically acclaimed exhibition of utilitarian photographs (photographs captured by traffic wardens as proof of parking violation in many areas) had been invited to Les Rencontres Internationales de la Photographie d’Arles and nominated for the Deutsche Börse Photography Prize.

System Interference opened in the lower gallery on 26th August with an ‘in conversation’ event with historian, Michael Fortune.

Culture Night

Micheál will host an informal gallery tour on Culture Night, Friday 22nd September, with late night gallery opening from 7pm.

Artist’s Talk

Micheál will host an artist’s talk on Tuesday 3rd October in conjunction with South East Technological University in the theatre at Wexford Arts Centre. n

Installation shot Tomasz, M. Inflatable Wind Turbine

The dramatic entrance to the new ‘System Interference’ exhibition at Wexford Arts Centre.

Caim’s artistic fundraiser

LANSDOWNE ROAD DRAWINGS by Artist Desmond McCarthy

Caim resident Desmond McCarthy was commissioned by the IRFU to draw and record the historic Lansdowne Road stadium before its demolition and rebuilding.

Desmond was a Dublin native and a graduate of the National College of Art & Design. He was a member of The Water Colour Society of Ireland, The Dublin Painting & Sketching Club and the United Arts Club in Dublin.

His original works are in many private collections in Ireland and throughout the world. They are on permanent display at The Department of Foreign Affairs, Dublin, The Department of Agriculture, Dublin, The Irish Embassies in both London and Riyadh.

The Caim Community Development Group (CCDG) is privileged to have been gifted a number of Desmond’s Lansdowne Road artist’s proofs by his loving partner Aiseling to assist with its fundraising efforts for Caim Community Park.

CCDG is delighted to announce that, in conjunction with Pallas Marketing and with support from the IRFU, it will be giving supporters of Caim Community Park the opportunity to win these Artist’s Proofs, signed, titled and stamped with the artist’s seal. Each picture is window mounted and the framing is moulded Italian wood with burnished silver finish.

CCDG is holding a night to remember Artist Desmond

McCarthy on Friday November 3rd in The Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy with doors opening at 7:30pm. The night will include a display of Desmond’s art with a select number of pieces on sale. There will be a wine and cheese reception and the night will conclude with the draw.

Apart from the five historical drawings, this draw also includes a signed and certified Ireland rugby jersey and a €250 cash prize.

To enter please follow this link https://pallaslotteries.ie/product/cdg-lansdowne/ or speak to a member of the Caim Community Development Group for tickets which cost €10. n

Enniscorthy Community Allotments –the amenity that keeps on giving

The multi-award-winning Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA), based at Gort Na Gréine, beside the Enniscorthy Sports Hub, is all about local people growing their own food in an organic and sustainable way.

This incredibly successful amenity has already won numerous local and national awards and this year has been nominated for the all-island Pride of Place competition and also nominated for the Excellence in Local Government Awards.

There’s always lots happening on site as Chairman Michael Devereux and the committee continuously strive to make it a state-ofthe-art amenity and one that’s fully inclusive.

Recent, ongoing and future developments include a patio area, water feature, a sensory area and sensory swing, a sculpture, picnic table, greenhouses, polytunnels, raised beds, composting area, rainwater harvesting, tool shed, etc. A student from Kildalton College, Philip Brennan, has helped with design work on the site. And just when it looks like the site has everything it could need, comes news of the latest project – a Geodesic Dome. The base for this impressive feature has been constructed and funding is in place thanks to a grant of €20,000 from the national Community Recognition Fund.

To find out more about Enniscorthy Community Allotments: www.enniscorthycommunityallotments.ie

Email: enniscorthyallotments@gmail.com www.facebook.com/Enniscorthycommunityallotments n

Above: William and Marion Conroy at their allotment with ECA Chairman Michael Devereux in the background. Below Michael on site checking out the plans for future developments.

Plans are at an advanced stage to install a Geodesic Dome (see example photo above) on site which can be used as a learning and community space. Below: Michael Devereux meets the supplier Seamus Daly of Geodesic Domes, Bohernabreena, Dublin, on site.

The ECA’s dome will be encapsulated with a polycarbonate glazing which is UV stable and is over 200 times stronger than conventional glass. The frame is completely protected from the weather by the sealed glazing, making it maintenance free and an extremely long lasting structure, beautiful and functional in equal measure.

Right: Michael Devereux with one of the rainwater harvesting facilities on site.

Above left: Jackie Breen working on her plot.

Above: Pablo and Oksana tending to their produce. Right: Some of the bountiful plots.

Left: Darren, who works on the site, checking out an impressive sunflower.

Below left: Some of the raised beds.

Below: The composting area.

Left: Darren and Frank (Slaney News) try out the SunSmart UV warning system on site.

Right: Michael Devereux at the polytunnels.

ooted in exford

Mark Cooke invites you to grow along with him.

Enniscorthy Community Allotments, and has a huge passion for growing fruit and veg which he shares on his Instagram platform @rootedinwexford which has over 7,500 followers. Mark describes himself very much as a ‘hobby gardener’ who is not academically trained in horticulture. He started planting with very little knowledge a few years ago and that knowledge has now ‘mushroomed’! Mark loves sharing his passion for growing with readers of the Slaney News.

Preparing Your Garden for Autumn: Mulching,

Bed Prep, and September Planting.

As we bid farewell to summer and welcome the cool embrace of September, it's time for gardeners to shift their focus towards preparing their outdoor spaces for the coming autumn and winter. In September's gardening column, we'll explore the essential tasks of mulching, bed preparation, and what to grow in September to ensure a thriving garden throughout the colder months.

Mulching is a fundamental practice that offers a myriad of benefits to your garden. It helps to retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, suppress weeds, and enhance the overall health of your plants. September is an excellent time to apply mulch, as it provides a protective layer just in time for the seasonal transition.

Consider using organic materials such as compost, straw, or shredded leaves as mulch. These materials not only improve soil structure but also add valuable nutrients as they decompose. Apply a layer of mulch around your plants, leaving a gap around the stems to prevent rot. Mulching not only conserves moisture but also keeps the soil temperature stable as the weather cools, providing a more comfortable environment for your plants' roots.

To ensure your garden beds are ready for winter, it's crucial to clear out spent crops and any debris. Removing these remnants helps reduce the risk of pests and diseases overwintering in your soil. Composting healthy plant material is an eco-friendly way to recycle nutrients back into your garden. Once your beds are clear, consider adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure. These amendments enrich the soil, providing a nutrient boost for your future crops. Spread a layer of compost evenly over the surface and gently work it into the top few inches of soil. This enriches the soil, promoting healthy microbial activity and nutrient availability.

Some gardeners prefer to cover unused beds with weed membrane or thick layers of mulch during the winter months. This prevents weeds from taking hold and makes spring bed preparation more manageable. It also shields the soil from erosion and excessive rain, further protecting its structure.

September offers an opportunity to extend your growing season and enjoy fresh produce well into autumn and winter. Here are some cold-hardy crops you can sow or plant in September:

Kale: This nutritional powerhouse thrives in cooler temperatures and can withstand light frost. Choose from various kale varieties like curly, lacinato, or red Russian.

Spinach: Spinach is another cold-tolerant leafy green that's perfect for fall planting. It's a versatile addition to salads, stir-fries, and smoothies. Plant it in well-drained soil and

keep it consistently moist for optimal growth. Swiss Chard: With its colorful stems and tender leaves, Swiss chard is not only visually appealing but also a tasty and nutritious option. It can endure chilly weather and adds a pop of color to your garden beds.

Radishes: These fast-growing root vegetables are excellent for late-season planting. You'll be able to harvest them in just a few weeks. Sow radish seeds in well-drained, loose soil for the best results.

Lettuce: Opt for cold-resistant lettuce varieties such as butterhead or romaine. Use row covers to extend their growing season further into autumn. Lettuce prefers well-drained soil and consistent watering.

Garlic: September is the ideal time to plant garlic cloves. They'll establish roots before winter and produce robust bulbs next summer. Choose a sunny location and well-drained soil for your garlic bed.

If you're as interested in gardening as much as I am, I invite you to connect with me on Instagram @rootedinwexford. There, I share regular snapshots of my garden, tips for aspiring gardeners, and many of my garden failures too.

In conclusion, September is a pivotal month for gardeners to prepare their outdoor spaces for the upcoming autumn and winter. Mulching, bed preparation, and planting cold-hardy crops will set the stage for a productive and vibrant garden throughout the colder months. By tending to these tasks now, you'll be rewarded with a bountiful harvest and a thriving garden well into the changing seasons. Happy gardening! n

Mark Cooke – firmly ‘rooted in Wexford’

Tried-Tested-Tasted by Caitriona

Caitriona Barron from Drinagh, Wexford, grew up on her dad’s farm with plentiful homegrown veg and their own meat so “we really knew the value of good food. My mother started a seafood business after meeting my stepfather fisherman, my brother now runs the seafood business so I’m well used to fresh food.”

“I worked with the family business before leaving to be a stay-at-home mother but soon got bored (lol!) and started taking pics of my food, sharing my recipes on social media. When people started showing interest, I realised this could be a job so I bought myself a camera and threw myself in the deep of it. I love it and I get to work with amazing companies. Seeing my pictures in magazines, in shops, and occasionally on TV is pretty amazing.

“I’m a mother of two boys and, yes, juggling it all can be very tough. But I keep it going as it’s my passion now and it’s very rewarding.”

https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted and Caitriona_barron on insta n

ONION RELISH SAUSAGE ROLLS

INGREDIENTS:

 1 packet of ready made puff pastry

 8 jumbo pork sausages

 ¼ jar of Wexford Home Preserves onion relish

 Egg wash

 Sesame seeds

METHOD:

 Preheat oven to 2000C

 Cut your pastry into two pieces

 Take the skin off the sausages

 Add ¼ jar of relish

 Mix well

 Shape into a sausage onto your pastry long ways.

 Egg wash the sides

 Roll it up

 Cut into portion sizes

 Cut two slits into the rolls

 Egg wash

 Sprinkle with sesame seeds

 Bake for 25-30 mins until golden

Enjoy! n

Caitriona Barron 

Pic: Caitriona Barron. https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted

Prizewinning produce at Castlebridge

Wexford Local Enterprise Office (LEO) is creating a shop local campaign showcasing the best of Wexford food. To get involved, just email them a short description of your business, along with any images or special offers you would like to include, and they’ll handle the rest!

Send your details to info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie n

Authentic Palestinian food

Good news from Enniscorthy Farmers Market which takes place every Saturday morning in Abbey Square, Enniscorthy. A new food stall, Al Wadi Falafel, has joined the market serving up delicious, authentic Palestinian Falafel every Saturday. n

Castlebridge Agricultural Show in the Old School, Castlebridge, 13th August 2023.

Above: Bertie Warren with a fine cabbage.

A very happy couple are Roisín Furlong and Anthony Murphy –first time entrants in the Tomato section for beginners.

Potatoes, onions, carrotts, and beetroot on show.

Your local

Slimming World Consultants in Enniscorthy

Providing you with a huge choice of sessions throughout the week:

Tuesdays @ 6.30pm

The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384

Wednesdays @ 8.00am, 9.30am, 11.00am, 5.30pm and 7.00pm

Enniscorthy Rugby Club – Call Trish on 087 3607615

Thursdays @ 9.30am

Enniscorthy Rugby Club – Call Trish on 087 3607615

Saturdays @ 9.00am and 10.30am

The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384

More success for Killowen Farm

The multi-award-winning Killowen Farm in Courtnacuddy, Enniscorthy, has been awarded the prestigious Gold status within Bord Bia's Origin Green programme, a remarkable milestone that showcases Killowen’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, quality, and innovation.

This achievement reflects the dedication and hard work of Killowen’s entire team, as well as its strong partnership with local farmers and suppliers who share its vision for a greener and more sustainable future. Killowen’s journey towards sustainability has been marked by continuous improvement and focus on reducing its environmental footprint while delivering the highest quality dairy products to your table.

At Killowen Farm, sustainability isn't just a buzzword; it's a principle woven into every aspect of the operations there.

Receiving Gold status from Bord Bia's Origin Green is not only a recognition of its accomplishments but also a commitment to pushing the boundaries further – raising the bar, setting new standards, and inspiring others to join their remarkable journey.

Killowen thanks all its valued customers, partners, and supporters for being a part of this incredible achievement saying, “Together, we are shaping a more sustainable and vibrant future for the generations to come.”

Great Taste Awards

And in more good news for Killowen Farm, it has just been awarded an incredible total of 13 stars in this year's prestigious international Great Taste Awards as it keeps pushing the boundaries of flavour and quality.

All-new Protein Yogurts

Killowen Farm is delighted to have just launched its allnew Protein Yogurts in four fantastic flavours; Raspberry, Strawberry, Blueberry and Caramel!

Say hello to your new favourite snack that's loaded with protein and live cultures to fuel your active lifestyle and aid your digestion.

Find the new range in SuperValu stores now! n

Tackling our Food waste

Flying the flag for Wexford food

Food waste is a global problem that has environmental, social and economic consequences.

More than one quarter of the food produced globally is wasted. It is a significant contributor to climate change, as food loss and waste contribute to 8-10% of greenhouse gas emissions. Growing, processing and transporting food all use significant amounts of resources such as land, water and energy.

The Irish Government has committed to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030, which is in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Check out: https://www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring—assessment/waste/national-waste-statistics/food/

And consider attending the upcoming Zero Food Waste Demonstration with Carmen Sanchez of Bunclody FETAC & WWETB, taking place in Bunclody Library on 7th September from 7-8.30pm.

To book your place at this free demonstration: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/4080639 n

Slaney Farms –sustainability success

Slaney Farms, based just outside Enniscorthy, is delighted to have been awarded Bord Bia – Irish Food Board Origin Green 2023 Gold Membership.

A spokesperson said, “This is a fantastic recognition of the hard work and great team effort of our fantastic staff here at Slaney Farms – we couldn't achieve these accreditations without the tremendous effort of every one of them.

“As a proud produce grower, we are committed to protecting and preserving the country’s resources for future generations. Within our 2022-2026 Origin Green Plan, we reported on twelve milestone targets across seven target categories in the last year. We have met or exceeded all our milestones, achieving exemplary performance in Raw Materials Certification, Packaging, Energy & Emissions, Water, Community Engagement, Employee Wellbeing and Biodiversity targets.” n

The prestigious, national Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards 2023 take place on September 29th 2023 and amazingly 14 of Co. Wexford’s wonderful food producers are up for awards. The full list is shown above with food businesses there from all over the county.

Now in our 16th year, Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards, is the biggest competition for quality Irish produce on the island of Ireland. We wish the Co. Wexford finalists every success in this year's awards. n

National Women’s Enterprise Day

Join Wexford Local Enterprise Office to celebrate National Women’s Enterprise Day in the company of a dynamic, innovative and inspirational panel of speakers. All of the speakers are leaders in their fields and are prominent figures in once-traditional male disciplines.

Hear how resilience, adaptability and strong leadership has empowered these women to build careers in sectors as diverse as scientific healthcare, aquaculture, dairy processing, digital marketing, artificial intelligence and local government provision.

The Keynote Speaker for NWED Wexford 2023 is Wexford native Theresa Grant OBE who will share her story of delivering high-value outcomes for communities and local government across the UK. Generating a positive organisational culture while restoring public finances from severe bankruptcy were just two key actions in the role that led her to be recognised with an OBE for her work in 2021.

Our MC and Panel Facilitator for the day Maryrose Lyons is a seasoned digital marketing expert and the founder of Brightspark Consulting. Well known for her uncanny ability to predict future digital trends, Maryrose has been at the forefront of the digital marketing revolution and has been helping Irish businesses to thrive online for over two decades. She is now to the forefront of Generative AI, helping businesses learn, harness and adapt the power of ChatGPT, Mid Journey and other tools for their businesses.

Kate Dempsey is from an Irish fishing family and first applied for an aquaculture licence when she was 22. Having returned home to Arklow post college she realised the marine activity in her home harbour had much reduced and hoped that a new business would help to regenerate the area. Getting that first licence to allow her new venture to operate took over ten years. In that time Kate put her professional skills in licensing and law together with her fishing background to good use by establishing Aqualicense – a marine and offshore windfarm consultancy firm who offer client services in large scale offshore aquaculture, offshore renewable energy and innovation. In 2022 Aqualicense Ltd was the Overall Winner at the

National Women's Enterprise Day Empowering Business Together

Venue: Newbay House Hotel, Newbay, Wexford, Y35 NN52

Date: Thursday, 19 October 2023

Time: 8.30am – 2.00pm

Guests: Strictly limited to 120 guests

Includes light breakfast on arrival and two-course “Love Local” Lunch.

To find out more and to book your place, please visit: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/National-Women-s-Enterprise-Day-19-102023.html

LEO National Enterprise Awards.

Deborah Brock is the CEO and CoFounder of Nua Fertility – a pioneering Irish fertility health company based in Delgany, County Wicklow. Realising that gut microbiome and nutrition had a powerful effect on fertility health, Deborah and her team have developed innovative, scientifically sound, fertility-supporting supplements with a microbiome focus for both men and women. Nua Fertility launched its first product NuaBiome for Women, a first-of-its-kind natural pre-natal fertility

supplement in August 2020 online and a number of other innovative products are in the development pipeline.

Local Wexford NWED Ambassador Pauline Dunne of Killowen Farm is a leading actor in the dairy manufacturing sector and has experience in growing a family dairy farm into a thriving award-winning international business with significant exports and a forceful growth strategy. Pauline is well-known as a food ambassador for County Wexford and was recently elected as President of the Wexford Food Family. n

Attention business owners and leaders

Greentech HQ, based in Enniscorthy's new Technology Park, hosted an Open Information Evening on Monday, 4th September, to launch its Power of Seven Strategic Leadership Programme to support local business owners and leaders.

The aim of the programme is to facilitate the coming together of a supportive group of seven like-minded peers to share insights and experiences.

GreenTechHQ has partnered with Barry Walsh, founder of Galway based 'Power of Seven’, to deliver the programme. The aim is to enable leaders who often have no avenue of inviting objective feedback from their peers in trying to move their business forward and to become more strategic about their businesses and their own leadership.

Designed for ambitious business owners and leaders (only) it opens up a safe, supportive environment with structured facilitation where company leaders can enjoy feedback, encouragement and inspiration from their own personal advisory board.

Facilitated by Barry Walsh, it explores the successful mindsets and tools that deliver a competitive strategic edge and establish a new vision of success both for your business and yourself. The GreenTechHQ Power of Seven aims to support, inspire and challenge a person to strategically develop their business so that it is working for them.

CEO and founder of GreenTechHQ Ed Murphy was a member of a Power of Seven group for a number of years and improved his own strategic leadership as well as deriving many other benefits.

To secure the future of a business is the need to work ‘on’ the business (strategic activity) while most business owners and CEOs spend most of their time working ‘in’ their businesses (operational activity). While this is critically important, of more importance for the future of the business, is the need to work ‘on’ the business (strategic activity).

Strategic thinking and acting is a different

mindset than operations. It requires a leader to be more future orientated, to think bigger, outside the box and look for opportunities to connect the dots and develop strategic relationships.

Barry Walsh and Ed Murphy at GreenTechHQ, Enniscorthy Technology Park. Seven group was phenomenal, through the shared learning, powerful conversations, insightful feedback from a group of professional friends I developed myself and my business to reach heights I’d never imagined. I am bringing this programme to the South East with the hope that it can help local leaders in the same way,” says Ed Murphy, CEO, GreenTech HQ.

Strategic leaders have clarity on the way forward, they have a clear vision of the future and a strategic roadmap on how to get there. The GreenTechHQ Power of Seven programme is helping selected leaders achieve that.

“The benefit I got from my Power of

Interested in knowing more? Contact info@greentechhq.com n

GREENTECHHQ ANNOUNCES SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATION PANEL AS PART OF IMMA EARTH RISING FESTIVAL

Enniscorthy’s GreenTechHQ is taking part in this year’s IMMA Earth Rising Festival. A four-day festival of free events and experiences aimed at addressing the climate crisis and inspiring collective action towards a sustainable and hopeful future. Taking place from Thursday, 21st to Sunday, 24th September 2023, at the landmark Royal Hospital Kilmainham in Dublin. The GreenTechHQ: Sustainable Innovation Panel will take place on Friday, 22nd at 5pm in the People’s Pavilion.

The panel will be hosted by serial entrepreneur and GreenTechHQ founder and CEO, Ed Murphy. Ed will be joined by a panel of four leading start-up innovators (see photo) who will share their on-going journey to success. Each panellist has been put forward by a regional innovation hub, they are: Martin Johnson of Eco Diversity, Angie Nagle of Blade Bridge, Daniel Izquierdo Hijazi of Micron Agritech and Paul Mahon of Watt Footprint. n

Co. Wexford seafood business to launch Ireland’s first fish petfood with support from BIM

A Co. Wexford seafood business is to eliminate the tonnes of leftover fish parts it produces each week – by using it to make Ireland’s first pet food made wholly from fish.

Atlantis Seafood, based in Kilmore Quay, has teamed up with Killiney, Co. Dublin based pet food company, Harley & Marley, to produce a range of nutritious, sustainable and healthy dried dog and cat food and treats from fish by-product.

The pet food, which will be sold under the Harley & Marley brand, will be available in Dunnes Stores around Ireland from the end of September as well as independent shops, pet stores, and veterinarian clinics. There are also plans for the pet food to be rolled out across Musgrave outlets.

Atlantis, which has sustainability at the heart of all it does, has been supported in the pet food venture by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) which provided mentoring and technical support. Last year Atlantis received a grant of €233,394 under the Brexit Processing Capital Support Scheme, implemented by BIM, to modernise its factory and to make it more environmentally friendly.

The petfood launch will see Atlantis advance its mission to be sustainable by dramatically reducing the 50 tonnes of byproduct created from the processing of fish each week, with only half of fish catch used and processed.

“We are very excited about the launch of this new petfood product and at the fact there is now potential for the entire fish – from head to tail – to be used,” said John.

“There are pet foods in Ireland that have some fish added. But what Harley & Marley offers is a 100% natural product with fish as the main single ingredient, possibly with small amounts of oats, parsley and seaweed.”

John was inspired to develop the pet food after attending an event six years ago where Monaghan-based duck producer, Silver Duck, spoke of how every part of the duck was used to produce consumer products. “For example, the feathers were used to make pillows. No part of the duck was wasted, and I got to thinking how we could replicate that concept to the fish we processed.”

He then connected with Harley & Marley which was set up by dog-loving mums, Portia Quinn and Robin Thompson in 2019. They discovered a mutual passion to create a brand of fine Irish pet treats while walking their dogs – Harley and Marley – on Killiney Hill.

Portia Quinn, who now runs the Harley & Marley business, said: “We had a clear vision to offer top quality pet treats made with fish and sustainable ingredients – and Atlantis was the perfect partner.”

The pet food is produced through gentle air-drying, rather than cooking, meaning it doesn’t lose any of its natural goodness. The production of the Harley & Marley pet food range will be outsourced to two companies in Ireland, keeping the operation within the country and totally Irish. All products will be packed in recyclable pouches.

Said John Kenny: “This is minimal processing at its best. The pet food is junk free, and made up of fish with few added ingredients. There is no wheat, wheat gluten, unnecessary fillers, additives, artificial colours or flavours added.”

“Our focus has always been on bringing the best product to consumers. We are constantly looking at new ways of maximising the bounty of the seas around us.”

Once the pet food range launches on the Irish market the export market will be explored. “The pet food market is growing globally and there is huge potential to export,” said John.

Atlantis has been in business for 30 years and has built its reputation on delivering quality fresh fish and seafood to top chefs and retailers across Ireland. The south-east company employs around 100 people today.

Atlantis is a verified Gold Member of Bord Bia’s Origin Green Progamme, and BRC (British Retail Consortium standard for better food safety and the control of food products) certified – and makes every possible effort to protect the ocean environment and life for now and for future generations. n

Something fishy: Managing Director of Atlantis Seafood, John Kenny, with his pet dog and the new Harley & Marley fish petfood range.

HIGHLIGHTING CO. WEXFORD’S REMOTE WORKING HUBS

Wexford County Council has launched a multimedia campaign that shares details of the variety of Remote Working Hubs located throughout Wexford and encourages more professionals and businesses to consider working from their local Remote Working Hub across the model county.

Over the last number of months, the professionals who already work at the Remote Working Hubs in Wexford have been interviewed and they have shared the many and varied reasons why they love using the Remote Working Hubs in Wexford. These include the value for money, ease of use and a fully serviced office, a professional work environment, less commuting and more time to enjoy the beauty of Wexford and, for many, using a hub provides them with essential separation of home and working life.

A series of videos will be released sharing the Remote Workers' viewpoints, details of the Remote Working Hubs and the beautiful scenery of Co. Wexford.

In Wexford Town, there is The Cube at Wexford Enterprise Centre, New Work Junction is located opposite Clonard Retail Park and 61 North situated in the heart of Wexford town. In Enniscorthy, just minutes from the town centre, there is Enniscorthy Enterprise and Technology Centre. In Bree, The HUB @ Bree is positioned at the foothill of Bree Hill and is an ideal hub for remote workers, start-ups, and freelancers. In the south of the county in New Ross there

is The Rising Tide Business Centre. In the north of the county in Gorey, there are two Remote Working Hubs – one in Gorey town, The Hatch Lab, and the other just ten minutes from Gorey in Kilnaerin village, KCC Workspace.

The Remote Hubs will be showcased across digital media advertising on national websites like myhome.ie, IrishTimes.com, her.ie and joe.ie; the videos will be released and promoted on social media, and the hubs will also be promoted on radio in a regional radio campaign, across print media with the Wexford People Group and on Wexford Bus with outdoor advertising also in situ in Wexford town and Gorey.

Speaking at the launch of the Remote Work Wexford Campaign at the Wexford County Council building, which saw speakers from a variety of the remote hubs sharing their experiences along with representatives of Connected Hubs, Leas Cathaoirleach Ger Carthy said, “I am delighted to help launch this campaign to encourage even more professionals and businesses to use the excellent Remote Working Hubs across Wexford.

“We are geographically ideally positioned and this is in tandem with our excellent infrastructure and, of course, an abundance of natural beauty which we all came to realise was vitally important during Covid lockdowns.“ Cllr Carthy says Co. Wexford is ready “to capitalise on welcoming more people into our communities who have left the chaos of the city for a better work/life

balance; and one that allows them to enjoy the wonderful amenities of Wexford and to work remotely from a professional and easy-to-access environment at one of our Remote Working Hubs.”

Liz Hore, Director of Services at Wexford County Council, commented, “We are delighted to launch the Remote Work Wexford media campaign. We know that the pandemic changed our view of ‘where’ our workplace is and we know that the future of work is hybrid. We have met a huge range of professionals who are already working from the Remote Working Hubs across Wexford over the course of this campaign preparation and it is their great endorsement of the hubs and their passion to share how successful the use of the hubs can be for a business that forms the cornerstone of our campaign messaging.”

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise at Wexford County Council, added, “We are also delighted to announce that a brand new Remote Work Centre will be opening soon in Enniscorthy Technology Park which is Ireland’s first passive office building. The UNEC Centre of Excellence “Green Hub” will offer a new space and support for businesses in the green sector to establish, innovate and collaborate. The hub is funded by Wexford County Council and Enterprise Ireland.”

For further details on Remote Working Hubs in Wexford see www.investwexford.ie/remoteworking n

Enniscorthy business is ploughing ahead!

One of Co. Wexford’s best small businesses will get a chance to exhibit to almost 300,000 people at the National Ploughing Championships this month as part of the Local Enterprise Village.

Founded by Niamh Hogan, Enniscorthy-based Holos Skincare, supported by Wexford Local Enterprise Office, is a luxurious and ethical skincare brand handmade in County Wexford. The Skincare range is produced using natural botanical ingredients and scientifically proven plant actives with sustainable practices at the core of all the company’s activities.

The company was recently acknowledged for their eco consciousness and sustainability credentials at the Global Green Beauty Awards 2023 where three of their products won gold medals and a fourth product was highly commended.

The initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) will see over 30 small businesses from across the country take a stand in the Local Enterprise Village in the heart of the Ploughing Championships, opening their businesses up to almost 300,000 prospective customers across the 3 days of the event taking place in Ratheniska, County Laois, from the 19th to 21st September this year.

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development in Wexford County Council says, “The National Ploughing Championship is one of the biggest occasions on the Irish calendar and there are very few events that draw a crowd as large as this over three days. For our small businesses this is a huge opportunity to engage with thousands of prospective customers every day and this could have a significant impact on their business. We have been working with them all across the summer on their products, marketing and merchandising for the event so they can maximise this amazing opportunity.”

The Local Enterprise Village is just one of a number of initiatives that the Local Enterprise Offices run, to foster entrepreneurship across the country. Others include Local Enterprise Week, the Na-

tional Enterprise Awards, the Student Enterprise Programme, National Women’s Enterprise Day and Local Enterprise Showcase.

The Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities are funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland. 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 25,000 jobs. The LEOs work with thousands of client companies across Ireland in a diverse range of sectors offering mentoring, training, expert advice and financial supports.

Read more about the Holos story here: https://businessisland.ie/holos-wins-big-at-global-greenbeauty-awards/?fbclid=IwAR3vv4m9BY1r8jQz668px3Icr6QbThfCTAykM0ww1CKIr n

Niamh Hogan (above centre) of Holos which is an award-winning luxurious and ethical skincare brand handmade here in County Wexford.

South East Animal Rescue

South East Animal Rescue has revamped its shop at 27 Court Street, Enniscorthy, with lots of bargains now available. The shop is open 10am - 3pm Monday to Friday & 10am - 1pm on Saturday. n

It would be great to see these dog poo bins being used by all dog owners.

Lots of dogs to be seen at this year’s Castlebridge Show on 13th August 2023.

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9233187, 9236674. F: (053) 9236674.

E: moynevet@gmail.com

VET DIARY FOR SEPT

It's the beginning of September. The evenings are gradually closing in and the kids are beginning their new classes and new year at school. There's a lovely line in the great Louis Armstrong song 'What A Wonderful World' referring to the children, 'they learn much more than I'll never know'.

It's such a great song anyway about all that's good in life, and gives us such hope for the future. For me, every day is a learning day and you can learn from everyone when you're open to listening.

Our dogs and cats, I often feel, are wonderful listeners and they quietly witness our good times and our bad times, with no judgement, just a quiet sentience, a graceful wisdom that often steadies us when times are tough. They understand us when the world doesn't and most of all they don't judge us when the world might be. That undivided loyalty is part of their beauty and as we wake up to a whole new level of understanding of how clever they are, it beholds us as vets to approach our care of them in a more collaborative way rather than a dominant and 'we know best' attitude.

with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital

There's a whole emerging field of 'zoopharmacognacy' where animals can select the correct natural remedy for them, be it an essential oil, a flower essence or even a homeopathic remedy when they are given the opportunity. As a profession, we dismiss a lot of these techniques, but its well known on farms that cows will eat soil, certain plants and herbs, or drink what looks like dirty water to gain the minerals they know they need to restore themselves. Farmers often ask me, 'What's she lacking when she's doing this?'

If given the opportunity, animals will select the correct nutritients to help replenish themselves. We've limited them often to a monoculture of one limited diet. And without a very varied diet, the microbiome is limited and this, in time, can lead to a variety of maladies. Increasing biodiversity in our environment, stimulates us, our animals, and our health. There's a great book called ' What your food ate' by Anne Biklé and David R Montgomery which is very thought provoking. We have lots to learn but before we make up our mind, we need to open it. 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

CAROLINE GETS MOTORING SKODA OCTAVIA

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

The Skoda Octavia has been a real success story for Skoda. It's the brand's most popular model and over 7 million have been sold. A fourth generation of the Octavia launched in 2020 and has kept the car among the bestsellers. And that's despite the market being saturated with SUVs and crossovers of all sizes. Skoda's humble hatchback has prevailed.

The Octavia has always been known for practicality and straight forward motoring but the latest version is the brand's most advanced yet. It goes on sale from €30,245, though the price does creep up when you opt for one of the more powerful engines and trim lines.

There is a good range to choose from with three trim levels - Ambition, Style and Sportline – and a choice of petrol and diesel engines, including the high performance Octavia RS models. The plug-in hybrid has

been withdrawn from sale for now due to supply issues.

The Octavia is classed as C-segment but it is huge inside. It's built on the same platform as other Volkswagen Group cars such as the Seat Leon, Audi A3 and the Volkswagen Golf. Yet the stretched wheelbase means that there is much more generous legroom in the back.

The boot is by far the biggest of the compact class with 600 litres in the hatchback and 640 litres in the estate version. To put that in perspective, a Volkswagen Golf can only manage 380 litres.

There's been a gentle evolution of styling but somehow the Octavia looks a little more elegant and upmarket than before. Even the entry level Ambition model gets 17-inch alloy wheels.

Top of the range Sportline models sit a bit

lower to the ground and come with sporty black trim around the grille, bumpers and rear bootlid spoiler, along with a set of unique 18inch alloy wheels.

Headlights are now slimmer with matrix LED technology available for the very first time in the Octavia.

There is loads of space for passengers inside the Octavia and it’s a very comfortable cabin to spend time in. Seating three across the rear bench shouldn't be a problem either.

The dashboard has a new minimalist design and Skoda has also introduced some plusher materials to the cabin and ambient lighting.

Skoda Octavia

Infotainment is provided via a new freestanding touchscreen in the centre of the dash and there are a few sizes available from 8- to 10-inch. Ventilation has moved to the screen but there are a few handy shortcut buttons below that make it easier to interact with. There's a modern full digital driver display.

Some hard plastics prevail in the cabin in obvious places like the door handles but generally the cabin looks good and feels hard-wearing. Sportline models get sports seats with integrated headrests and a fabric insert in the dashboard. There's also a three spoke sports steering wheel. Though the overall impression is a little underwhelming for a top of the range model.

There is a good level of equipment however, like heated front seats and wireless smartphone charging.

Engine options for the Octavia include a 1.0-litre TSI turbo petrol with 110hp, a 2.0litre diesel with 115hp or 150hp, and a 1.5litre TSI turbo petrol with 150hp. Mild hybrid versions of the petrol engines are available with a 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox, thought the 6-speed manual remains a good choice for the Octavia.

The high performance Octavia RS is available as a 2.0-litre diesel (200hp) or as a 2.0-

litre TSI (245hp).

My test car was the Octavia 1.5-litre TSI Sportline with a list price of €40,700. It is a real gem of an engine with 150hp so there is plenty of power when you want it and the Octavia never feels under pressure. It's a smooth, quiet and refined companion of the Octavia. There's also cylinder deactivation to improve the efficiency. It works by shutting down two cylinders when the engine is under low load.

On the motorway it really helps lower the consumption, though it does increase during town and other suburban driving. My average fuel consumption over a week of driving was 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres.

The Octavia is a straightforward drive with direct, precise steering and good grip in cornering. It feels more comfortable and re-

fined than ever but there is some persistent road noise. Sportline models also ride a little firmer over the road surface than Octavias on more standard suspension. But the car does cruise motorways with ease. Nothing else in this class really comes close to the value the Octavia offers when you consider how much bigger it is than rivals. If you value practicality, this is the car for you

It's also very handsome, particularly in the Sportline trim. It's closed the gap on rivals with more comfort and tech on board than ever before. There's a good selection of well-proven engines to choose from as well with the 1.5-litre petrol being one of the nicest to drive.

The Skoda Octavia is an Irish favourite and it's easy to see why. It's a sensible and practical choice of car.

Model tested:

Skoda Octavia Sportline 1.5 TSI

Price: €40,700

Engine: 1.5-litre turbo petrol

Power: 150 hp

Torque: 250 Nm

Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 8.5 seconds

Motor Tax: €200 per year n

NCRS,

The Leo Carthy Weekend

6K Fun Run at Our Lady’s Island

Leo Carthy W Fun Run 6th A

Above

All the way from the USA were Team America, Michael and Rachel Boyne, Nathan Sylvester, Rachel Boyne and Maggie Sylvester.

Above

John Egan, Niall Sheil, Pawal Kilesnikov and Jackie Carty.

Sharon and John Dier and Wayne Holmes.

Right: Ruth O’Connell and Eadaoin Quinn.

Below

Deirdre Mason and Anthony Dowd.

Below: Anna Marie Redmond and Trish Sinnott.

Bottom

Helen Burrell, Niall Tyrrell and Bridie McGuire.

Bottom

Helen Kirwan and Chloe Curran.

left:

right:

Left:

left:

left:

right:

Above left: There to support the runners was Verona Murphy TD, with Colm Doyle. Left: Pat and Simlan Taylor. Below left: Tom Sinnott.

Enniscorthy Greyhound

Track

Own a share of Wexford FC

Wexford FC is owned 100% by the Wexford Supporters Trust (WST) and you can own a share in this League of Ireland club for just €20 per month!

Have your say, voting rights at AGMs, and Free digital match programme every week!

To join, follow the link: https://wexfordfc.ie/supporterstrust n

Wexford GAA has appointed Keith Rossiter as the new Wexford Senior Hurling Manager on a three-year term.

Keith was manager of Wexford’s U20 Hurling Team for the past two seasons, guiding the team to successive Leinster finals, while he previously served as a selector with the county senior hurling team from 2017 to 2021. As a player, Keith represented Wexford at senior level for more than a decade and was a member of the squad that won the Leinster title in 2004. He also tasted significant success with his club, Oulart-The-Ballagh, winning ten Wexford Senior Hurling titles (including two as captain) and one Leinster Senior Club Hurling Championship. n

Enniscorthy rugby

Congrats to Katie Whelan, Molly Boyne and Aoife Wafer on being part of the Leinster team which won the interpro series last month with a 33-14 victory over Munster in Musgrave Park. Website: http://www.enniscorthyrugby.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScorthyRugby n

Sports Active

Sports Active Wexford is all about creating a healthier, safer, more active and inclusive society in Co. Wexford.

Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SportsActive n

Congrats to Enniscorthy's Michelle O'Neill who officiated at the recent women’s World Cup tournament including being an assistant referee at the third-place playoff between Australia and Sweden – Michelle's fourth game at this year’s World Cup. She previously officiated at the 2019 Final. n

Inclusive sports tryout

Racing every Monday and Thursday at 8pm at Enniscorthy Greyhound Track.

Bridget Kenny of the Sports Active Wexford team (in centre of photo) along with Noelle Kinsella and Caoimhe Kehoe who were at the Astro Active Centre in Enniscorthy recently for an Inclusive Sports Tryout day.

MARATHON MAN TO PUT HIS OWN ENDURANCE TO THE TEST

Rosslare runner David Kelleher (pictured above) is all set to compete in the upcoming Wicklow Eco-trail Ultra Marathon.

David from Rosslare Strand, but with family connections in Enniscorthy, will test his endurance to the limits when he competes in the 46 km event at the end of September.

He will be one of about 300 runners who will set out from the sea-front in Bray when the starter gun fires on Saturday 30th September at 9.00 in the morning. He will run up Bray Head before tackling the Wicklow Mountains.

The Eco-trail Ultra Marathon is spon-

sored by Wicklow Wolf Brewery.

This ultra-marathon offers 2 UTMB qualifying points, which some runners may collect to tackle the 160km Ultra-Trail run in Mont-Blanc on the French Italian border, the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe.

The Dublin City Marathon is 26.2 miles or 42.2 km along a flat surface with a good completion time of perhaps 4 hours. In contrast, the Eco-trail Ultra Marathon is 46 km through rough terrain with good competitors completing it in 5 hours. In the Viking Marathon in Waterford in June last year, David completed the run in 4 hrs. 30 mins.

For preparation to compete, David adheres to a regime of diet and exercise and practising in Forth Mountain and in the Comeraghs in Waterford, where he represented Ireland in the World Masters Mountain Running Championships in 2022.

He is a keen rugby fan and enjoyed many years playing rugby with Wexford Wanderers RFC and UCD RFC. He has also written a popular book of poetry titled “Stop, Breathe, Read” and is working on a sequel.

He and his wife Anne-Marie, and their children Jack and Sheena, live in Rosslare. n

Enniscorthy’s new Astro Pitch beginning to take shape

Construction on the new full-size community Astro Pitch for Enniscorthy on the Ross Road has got underway. It is expected to be open for use later this year.

Inclusive sports tryout day in Enniscorthy

The Slaney News was delighted to catch up last month with Bridget Kenny of the Sports Active Wexford team who was at the Astro Active Centre in Enniscorthy for the first of a large series of events designed to encourage more female participation in sport and outdoor activities.

The event in Enniscorthy was an 'Inclusive Sports Tryout' day where women and girls could try out six different sports and activities.

We were delighted to see such a big turnout including participants from St Aidan's in Gorey, Cumas in New Ross, Reachability in Enniscorthy and Windmill Therapeutic in Wexford town. See photos on this page.

The event in Enniscorthy was part of ‘HER Outdoors Week’ which ran from 14th – 20th August, and events around the county included mountain walks, cycling, beach yoga, kayaking, swimming, archery, etc. n

Some faces in the crowd...

All pics by Slaney News and Enniscorthy Greyhound Track.

Paul McGrath golf classic suppo

Football legend Paul McGrath was delighted with the turnout for his recent Paul McGrath Golf Classic in support of Acquired Brain Injury Ireland which took place on Saturday 26th August at Rathaspeck Manor golf course near Wexford town.

The 2023 Golf Classic was a sell out and a memorable day where all the participants got to meet a sporting hero – Paul McGrath, compete for great prizes, and enjoy a beautiful golf course.

Jackie’s army legend Paul McGrath said: “9,000 people in Ireland acquire a brain injury every year – people whose lives are turned upside down overnight and who need the right support, at the right time, to get things back on track... Between 150,000 and 200,000 people in Ireland are living with a disability as the result of an acquired brain injury. Each euro raised will benefit those impacted, as well as their families and carers. My Golf Classic is a chance to make a real difference to the future of brain injury survivors and their families.”

Acquired Brain Injury Ireland is the country’s leading provider of specialised, communitybased brain injury rehabilitation services. The organisation’s mission is to empower and support people with a brain injury to live their fullest and most independent life, with confidence. This is made possible by vital donations, including events like the Paul McGrath Golf Classic. n

Above left: Hilda McKiverigan, Paul McGrath, Bernie Scanlan and Maureen Byrne.

Above: Jonathon Power, Tracey Jennings and Matt Power of Aquired Brain Injury Wexford with Paul McGrath.

Far left: Albert Saunders, Paul McGrath, Tommy McDonnell and Mick Walsh.

Left: Sean Kearney and Paul McGrath.

Right: Paul with some of the big hitters –Barry Fitzgerald, Gordon Kearney, Sean Kearney and Gerry Malone.

Below left: Paul with Bertie Walsh and Jimmy Warren. Below centre: David Phelan, Paul McGrath and Ciaran Medlar.

Below right: Eddie O’Neill, Paul, Michael O’Dwyer.

orts Acquired Brain Injury Ireland

Below

Below

‘How’s it going neighbour’ as Paul greets his neighbour Tommy Kelly with another neighbour in background Dave Webber. Below centre: Michael Cleere, Paul McGrath, Noel McGuire and

Above left: Brendan Radford gets a selfie with Paul.

Above centre: Damien Mooney, Jimmy Sanderland, Paul McGrath and Ollie Hughes.

Above right: Paul and Larry Merrigan. Left: Paul McGrath asks how the round went with Lar Doyle (left) and Noel Strahan (centre).

Right: Young admirers Darragh and Jake Sinnott with Paul.

centre: Old friends Philip Duggie Murphy and Paul McGrath.

right:

Mal Galvin. Below right: Paul with Albert Saunders.

Damian’s books are available again

Local author Damian Cullen is delighted to have the second edition of "Castleboro: A Lost Legacy" printed and available. It’s approx 20% bigger than the first edition. Copies of Damian’s other book "Where The Boro Waters Flow" are also available. Both can be purchased in the following outlets: Greenes Daybreak Clonroche. Cullens Gala, Adamstown. Sarah's Kiosk, Abbey Centre, Enniscorthy.

Rackards, Caim. Johnstown Castle. Wells House.

Red Books, St Peter's Square, Wexford town.

Red Books, Rafter Street, Gorey. n

Check out the Ferns murals

The new colourful and eye-catching ‘Saints' mural by artist ADW, just outside the Medieval Ferns Experience, features St Aidan and his mentor St David. Its content points to key events and characters in the medieval period. A visit to the Medieval Ferns Experience is highly recommended. Tel: 089 494 6972. Check out: https://www.facebook.com/MedievalFernsExperience Pic: Enjoy Enniscorthy.

New trail at Bree is path to Neolithic Portal Dolmen

More than thirty people walked a mile through a forest from the mid county village of Bree, founding place of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association, on a sunny midday August Sunday to reach, stand at, gaze at and learn about an ancient tomb or dolmen that may be 5,500 or more years old, older than one of the wonders of the world, the Pyramids of Egypt.

At the top of the forest, Cllr John O’Rourke, Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District, declared open what is named the Bree Walking Trail funded by €50,000 from the Department of Rural and Community Development through the ORIS (Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme) and Wexford Co. Council. It is a 6.2 km or 3.9 miles walk.

The trail commencing at the village of Bree culminates in a clearance in the forest of tall trees about 2km south, in which is revealed the amazing and iconic Ballybrittas Portal Tomb or Dolmen, made of giant slabs of granite from the Neolithic era, up to 4,000 BC, and marked as ‘Cromleach’ on OS maps. The slabs were probably pulled by farmers into place from nearby local rock by ropes or pulleys.

The dolmen, protected there all alone in a copse, a haven of quietness and peace, is one of 174 other dolmens or megalithic tombs in Ireland and one of only two such wonders of County Wexford and the south east of Ireland. The most prominent in Ireland is at Poulnabrone in the Burren, Co. Clare, in which a number of remains were found. The dolmen is a protected monument, now owned by Wexford Council.

The other prominent dolmen of the south east is at Newbawn – 18 kilometres to the south-west.

The Ballybrittas Dolmen is situated beside the R730, but the old access of 50 or more years ago is blocked. The new access is through Bree Village.

This may have been where the remains of people, possibility big farmers or Wexford nobility, are buried. However, we’ll never know as the dolmen is a protected monument and the Department prefers to leave monuments such as at Ballybrittas untouched. It would be too costly to excavate. Ignorant of how to get there, we tried a variation of the old way first announced by W.H. Grattan Flood, historian, in 1911 that

it was 100 yards down a lane after passing Clonmore Cemetery.

Instead, we went up a private laneway, crawled through briars and skeaughs and helped through a hedge by the President of the ICA, Breda Cahill, and Brendan Cahill Flynn and Willie French, shouting out on the other side, found ourselves on the beautiful new walking trail pathway. The dolmen is a field away from Breda’s and Brendan’s home. In contrast to our breakthrough, reminiscent of crawling on hands and knees along the Border during the Troubles in the 1970s, the smooth pathway brought us there in a minute.

The meticulous historian W.H. Grattan Flood, accompanied by Very Rev. Canon Sheil and Rev William Martin, in 1911, found that inside this ‘magnificent portal tomb’ there is a chamber, the height is 6 ft and the table rests on three stones, two in front and one at the back and it should weigh about seven tons.”

The thirty or more people, among them

Betty Kelly, the chairperson of the Bree Community Development Group, with Bree Walking Trails subcommittee fellow members, Sheila Moriarty, chairperson, Josephine Byrne and Dr Jutta O’Meara, stood respectfully silent and attentive while Colm Moriarty, the archeologist, also of Bree ancestry, explained its provenance and its comparison with the dolmen in Co. Clare. You may read more about the Bree Walking Trails and the Ballybrittas Portal Dolmen on: megalithicmonumentsofIreland.com, VisitWexford.ie, WexfordWalkingTrail.ie and The Bree Heritage Project Report, the archeological and historical background to a Co. Wexford parish, by Colm Moriarty in academia.edu

Our thanks to Josie Van Embden, books editor, and Oscar, of Clonmore, for special photographs, to Willie French, historian for guidance, to Brendan Cahill Flynn for video and to Colm Moriarty and to Breda Cahill, President of County Wexford ICA, for comforting help and direction.

– Michael Freeman

Walkers on the Bree Walking Trail gather at the Ballybrittas Portal Dolmen for Colm Moriarty’s talk.

HAVE YOUR SAY IN ENNISCORTHY'S NEW HERITAGE-LED PLAN

Wexford County Council is working with Urban Scale Interventions (USI) to create a heritage-led regeneration plan for Enniscorthy – and your input is being sought.

A public consultation event was held on on 16 August last in the Market Square, Enniscorthy, where an engagement board was set up for everyone to have their say. The organisers were delighted with the feedback they received and the enthusiasm shown by the public.

For anyone who hasn’t provided any input so far, there is an online questionnaire on the Wexford County Council website and social media at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/QZDMQKM Paper copies of the questionnaire are also available in Enniscorthy Library.

This project has received grant support from the Historic Towns initiative which is a partnership undertaking between the Heritage Council and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

It is hoped that the funding will help provide jobs through heritage-led regeneration, aid the rebuilding of local economies and address property vacancy by encouraging the specific re-use of historic buildings.

Further Information:

Wexford County Council. Tel: 053 9196000 heritage.biodiversity@wexfordcoco.ie n

Our photo shows the USI team of Gavin Campbell and Sarah Keating with Catherine McLoughlin (Heritage Officer, Wexford County Council) and two members of the public who stopped by to have their say – Paddy Kavanagh and Bartek Jurkiewicz.

EHRS commemorating the Year of the French

Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society (EHRS) was delighted to be invited to attend and perform at the Ballina Battle Re-enactment in Co. Mayo, recently.

Commemorating the Year of the French, the Ballina 2023 Festival, running from 18th to 22nd August, included an extensive programme of events from a living history village to short film premieres, history seminars to the battle on the streets of Ballina in the pouring rain on Sunday 20th August.

In 1798, Wolfe Tone and the United Irishmen looked to France to assist them in defeating the British, and France obliged sending three expeditions to Ireland.

The first, 1,100 men led by General Jean Joseph Amable Humbert, set sail on August 8th and landed at Kilcummin Strand, County Mayo, on August 22nd, among them were Irish expats and exiles serving as officers in the French Army.

Joined by 200 rebels, the French force took Killala from the British before marching on to Ballina where hundreds of volunteers from the surrounding towns and villages joined them to record another victory for the combined Franco-Irish forces.

On Sunday 22nd August, Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society were joined on the streets of Ballina by members of the local re-enactment group In Humbert’s Footsteps, along with re-enactors from Lord Edwards Own, En Garde, Killala Historical Re-enactment Group, The 70e de Ligne, and members of the Ballinamuck Pikemen, where in a torrential downpour they re-enacted the events of the day 225 years before, watched by current members of the French Navy, and a delegation from the French Embassy.

With shouts of ‘Remember

Vinegar Hill’ reverberating on the streets of Ballina, I leave you in no doubt whatsoever that EHRS takes Enniscorthy and its history with them wherever they may go.

On September 9th, we will be re-enacting the Battle of Ballinamuck in County Longford, the last battle of 1798.

– Maria Nolan

Centuries-old secret room discovered at Johnstown Castle

A secret room in the 800-year-old gothic-revival Johnstown Castle in county Wexford was discovered for the first time recently by a joiner carrying out conservation works.

The historic Johnstown Castle Estate Museum & Gardens in Wexford is one of the properties in the care of the Irish Heritage Trust and it has undergone substantial conservation and restoration works over the last five years with projects ongoing following the official opening of the fairytale castle to the public for the very first time in its history in mid-2019.

Dating back over 850 years to the Norman times in Ireland, Johnstown Castle was in private hands for centuries and went through a number of aristocratic families before coming into public ownership in the late 20th century.

In 2018 the Irish Heritage trust took over the care and management of Johnstown Castle and the estate underwent a €7.5 million makeover, which included conservation of the castle itself, the construction of a new visitor centre and the restoration of an 86m underground servants' tunnel.

In April 2023, renovations works were completed on the never before seen East Wing of Johnstown Castle and it was officially opened to the public. The spectacular East Wing is set within its own discreet annexe of the castle, comprising three rooms full

of character and charm. Set across three floors where, during the castle’s history, many parties and events took place, it once housed a ballroom, oratory, billiard room and science laboratory.

As restoration works continue on the Castle and gardens through 2023, a brand-new discovery was made on Sunday, August 13th 2023, by a joiner who was working on window conservation in the castle itself. The contractors from National Gates and Joinery Company broke through a section of wall only to uncover a hidden room which has remained untouched.

Anne O'Donoghue, CEO of the Irish Heritage Trust, says, “This is a really incredible discovery. It is highly unusual to find additional hidden treasures in heritage properties and this is the second time that this has happened at Johnstown Castle following our discovery of a secret room under the tower at the lake just last year. The Trust's mission is to care for the properties and work towards making them financially sustainable, this is done through a number of different ways, such as welcoming visitors to our sites, philanthropy and competitive grants. In the case of the windows here in Johnstown Castle, the work has been completed with support from the Dept. of Heritage

Manager at Johnstown Castle Brenda Comerford says “This room has been covered up for a very long time. It is part of one of the towers and looking around it, on initial inspection we think it was most likely a small turret bedroom. There is quite a tragic family history associated with Johnstown Castle, so this room could have been sealed off due to a tragedy, which would have happened in times past, who knows. We will need to investigate this further.”

The beautiful neo-Gothic Castle is set on a 120 acre estate with three lakes and extensive walking trails in the Southeast corner of Ireland aptly within Ireland’s Ancient East. For more details on the gardens, events and tours, visit johnstowncastle.ie n

The secret room

1798 from a Protestant family viewpoint

Dr. Ida Milne, who lectures on European History at Carlow IT, was invited to speak on the Elmes Letters at the River’s Edge restaurant, Bunclody, recently, by the Drumcree Historical Society as part of the 225th anniversary celebrations of the 1798 Rising.

Dr. Milne, the proud daughter of local historian the late King Milne, discussed her father’s unique collection of family correspondence, known as the Elmes Letters, shedding light on the ‘98 Rebellion from the prospective of a Protestant family background.

The Elmes Letters, or Robert Morris Letters as they are also known, were discovered over forty years ago in the garret of the family home in Robinstown, Old Ross.

The collection contains between forty and fifty letters written between members of the Elmes family from the years 1786 to 1817.

The main correspondent, Robert Morris, whose mother was Martha Elmes, went to America, acquiring property in New Jersey, but sided with the loyalists when the American War of Independence broke out and lost everything.

Other writers were Samuel Elmes Senior and his sons, Thomas, Samuel Jnr., and King, the third son who was a sailor on a ship owned by Messrs. George and Thomas Keogh, New Ross, merchants.

Much of the correspondence relates to King’s rather colourful life, who appears to have ended up in the West Indies in 1797, after many daring escapades.

From 1798 onwards the correspondence is, understandably, all about Rebellion and its aftermath.

Thomas Elmes tells Robert Morris in a letter dated 3rd June 1798 that the Protestant inhabitants of the parish of Old Ross fled in less than an hour to Ross where they were ‘protected by the goodness of Charles Totenham, who generously gave several new houses, the best in town, to the Old Ross people’.

On 21st June, Samuel Elmes Jnr. writes to Samuel Elmes Snr., from Fishguard, telling him that there are over ‘a thousand of very respectable people of our county here’ having fled Wexford for Wales to get away from the violence of Rebellion.

On 8th July, Thomas Elmes writes to Robert Morris with more details of fighting at Lacken Hill, Carrick Burn, and Vinegar Hill, telling of the massacres at Wexford and Scullaboge.

The Crown Forces had crushed the Rebellion at that stage and the county was crawling with Militia from Dublin, Meath, Kilkenny, Clare, Donegal, and Roscommon, along with Mid Lothian Romney and Homspret Cavalry and parties of the 5th and 9th Dragoons, local Yeomen and Hessian Cavalry. This was just a sample presented on the night to whet the appetite.

Dr. Milne is so lucky to have this wonderful family treasure chest and her passion for history shines in the easy way she tells her family story, so interesting, so informative, so entertaining, and at times so ambiguous, I could have listened to her all night.

Dr. Milne was introduced by Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy and the event organised by Liam Kelly and the Drumcree historical group.

Well done to all on a most enjoyable and illuminating night.

– Maria Nolan

L-R: Maria Nolan, Ida Milne and Gloria Binnions.

L-R: Liam Kelly, Ida Milne and Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, at the talk in Bunclody.

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns

Please note the following:

To log a report regarding any dumping, street litter, road oil spills and potholes, ring Wexford Council on (053) 919 6000 or email:

customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie You will receive a log number to refer to if you need to call again. You can also ask to register for group or individual cleanups of your environment.

Wexford farmers win national sustainability award

Pictured at the Tullamore Show on August 13th 2023 are Catriona and Joe O’Meara, with their children Katie and Eoin, from Camross, County Wexford, winners of the Dairy Calf-to-Beef Award at the Sustainable Farmer Awards.

Minister Charlie McConalogue presented the awards, which honour topperforming sustainable beef and sheep farmers.

The awards are the result of a partnership between the FBD National Livestock Show, Bord Bia, Teagasc and the Irish Farmers Journal.

Pic: Alfie Shaw. n

While many of us in good health can hopskotch around the heaps of dog poo that litter our streets, some in our community are unable to do so and therefore suffer the consequences. One such group is the blind and vision- impaired, and this group is now desperately calling on dog owners to ‘Clear Our Paths’.

Data gathered by NCBI (National Council for the Blind in Ireland) as part of its Clear Our Paths campaign shows that just 82 dog fouling fines were handed out by local councils over the course of 2022.

Information provided by the local councils at the request of NCBI, showed that 18 councils from around the country handed out zero dog fouling fines over the course of last year. Kerry County Council had the highest number of fines with 27 and the council reported that there were two convictions related to those fines. Dog fouling is a huge issue for people who are blind or vision impaired who use our footpaths daily. A recent NCBI survey showed that it was the third most frequent unexpected obstacle encountered by respondents. Not only can dog fouling cause a slip hazard, but it can also be distressing for white cane users whose canes are often dirtied by faeces.

Cars parked on footpaths emerged as the number one obstacle faced by respondents to the survey. NCBI recently learned that over 19,000 fines were handed out in 2022 for issues around street and inappropriate parking. Three councils reported that they had not handed out any fines, while Mayo County Council said there were no fines handed out in the Claremorris/Swinford area. Roscommon County Council said there are no traffic wardens in the county.

NCBI recognises local councils’ efforts and challenges to support clear paths in their communities and some councils provided information about positive steps they have taken to curb the dangers posed by dog fouling in particular.

Wexford County Council said it, among other things, had provided free pooper scoopers and bins in towns, villages and at blue flag beaches.

Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Council said it runs a Green Dog Walkers programme to encourage all dog walkers to pick up after their pets.

Aaron Mullaniff, Chief Services Officer with NCBI said: “The dog fouling data shows that councils can’t be expected to police the issue alone. It’s impractical to think that wardens could observe every single dog owner who doesn’t clean up after their dog and then issue them with a fine. There needs to be significant effort from the public to clean up after their pets in the first instance. It’s imperative that we all work to make our footpaths usable for all members in our communities.”

As part of this campaign, NCBI has created a webpage aimed at supporting members of the public to have conversations with family members and friends about the importance of their own behaviour. We can all be active bystanders through our own actions and words and NCBI is asking people to start a positive conversation to encourage others to make sure our footpaths are clear and safe for everyone in our community.

For the record, Wexford Co. Council was one of the 18 Councils nationally which did not issue a single dog fouling fine in 2022. n

Just 82 dog fouling fines handed out nationally in 2022 as blind and vision-impaired community calls on dog owners to ‘Clear Our Paths’

Register now for the Big Beach Clean

The Clean Coasts organisation, supported by Cully and Sully, is thrilled to announce the return of the Big Beach Clean initiative. The programme is asking participants to sign up to receive a free clean-up kit and join a worldwide citizen science project. With almost 150 groups already registered, this promises to be an exciting opportunity for everyone.

In 2022, over 500 clean-up events took place and volunteers made an incredible impact by removing 42 tonnes of litter from the Irish coast and inland locations. As Clean Coasts celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2023, the aim is to make this year's Big Beach Clean the most remarkable one yet.

Scheduled to take place from September 15th to 17th, the Big Beach Clean is part of the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC), organised by the Ocean Conservancy. This annual call to action invites communities and volunteers to come together and host a clean-up after the bathing season ends. Additionally, it is an opportunity for volunteers to engage in a worldwide citizen science project. By collecting data on the amount and types of litter found on Irish beaches and filling out Clean Coasts' Marine Litter Data Cards, volunteers contribute to raising awareness about the issue of marine litter. This data serves as an indicator of the problem's scale and aids in shaping future policies and campaigns.

This year, Clean Coasts aims to emphasise the importance of submitting the information and data on the collected litter. The 2022 results have been shared with Ocean Conservancy, and in Ireland, they have influenced Clean Coasts' campaigns targeting the top 10 litter offenders, including cigarette butts, plastic bottles, and food packaging. For example, the Clean Coasts’ Break Up with Plastic campaign was mostly based on results from the Big Beach Clean. Moreover, working with

community groups, a new anti-smoking litter campaign was launched in May this year.

At Taisce National Spring Clean programme is joining the initiative again and registration for the Big Beach Clean is open to all residents of Ireland, regardless of their proximity to the coastline. Statistics show that urban litter is one of the main causes of marine litter, therefore, even those in noncoastal counties can participate and contribute to preventing litter from entering waterways and seas. By joining the Big Beach Clean, volunteers play a crucial role in addressing the problem at its source and making a positive impact on the environment.

Irish business Cully and Sully, renowned sea lovers and sustainability supporters, are thrilled to join Clean Coasts once again in supporting the Big Beach Clean.

Colum O’Sullivan, aka Sully, from Cully and Sully said: "As big fans of the sea, we’re thrilled to be sponsoring the Big Beach Clean for a fourth year. It’s not

just about giving our beaches a good combing over after the busy summer months. As we clean the beaches and waterways, we’re all being reminded how important it is to dispose of and recycle our waste properly."

Sinead McCoy, Coastal Communities Manager, commented: “Join us in the Big Beach Clean 2023 and be part of a powerful movement to protect our coastlines. Together, we’ll create a cleaner, healthier environment for all. Sign up at cleancoasts.org and let’s make a lasting impact on our precious coastal ecosystems.”

People wishing to join the initiative can register at:

www.cleancoasts.org

https://cleancoasts.org/our-initiatives/big-beach-clean/

Facebook: @CleanCoasts

Twitter: @CleanCoasts

Instagram: @cleancoasts

YouTube: Clean Coasts Ireland

Linkedin: Clean Coasts n

No excuses!

With the generous support of the Environment Department of Wexford County Council, two Mutt Mitts bag dispensers and bins (see photo) have been installed in Ferns village and also at several locations around Enniscorthy. These dispensers contain easy to use biodegradable bags to dispose of your dog’s poo. So no excuses! Bag it and bin it!! n

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

Did you know?

Did you know that people use a plastic bottle for an average of 11 minutes? Meanwhile it takes up to 450 years to decompose!

Reusable bottles are becoming more and more popular and thankfully there are now a number of locations on the streets of Enniscorthy where you can fill them with water for free. So if you want to do one thing today for nature, avoid using disposable plastic bottles. n

Green loans from Enniscorthy Credit Union

Need to retrofit your cold, 1970s house? Enniscorthy Credit Union’s Green Loan is designed to help you do just that – with one of its lowest rates for a loan 5.25% (5.4% APR) you can save money, save energy and save the environment with Enniscorthy Credit Union! Talk to them today at 053 9233835 or email: loans@enniscorthycu.ie n

Energy supports & resources

There are a number of government supports and resources available to help businesses mitigate the impact of energy price rises and become more energy efficient. Check out the website:

https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/supports-forsmes/energy-supports/ n

School teachers...

Calling primary and post-primary school teachers! SEAI Schools Workshops have now re-opened for bookings!

Take part in one of the free student workshops and explore the topic of energy and sustainability in a fun and engaging way. Primary and post-primary options available – online, face to face and outdoors.

Visit the website and complete the booking form to register your interest: https://www.seai.ie/communityenergy/schools/workshops-for-schools/student-workshops/ n

Swift work in Enniscorthy

In some good news for nature and biodiversity in the town, Enniscorthy Men's Shed have produced 20 swift nest-boxes which, when weatherproofed, will be put up around Enniscorthy ahead of next year's nesting season.

The next step is for the Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group to identify locations to erect these, bearing in mind that the boxes need to be clear of any obstacles. If your business or premises is interested is having one, please contact any member of the group or message through its Facebook page. The group reassures potential hosts that, “Swifts do not generate any mess/droppings so do not be concerned!”

To learn more about this amazing bird, check out the Swift Conservation Ireland Facebook page. n

Éanna enthralls on biodiversity walk

Sustainable Enniscorthy finds high nitrate levels in the Slaney

The Sustainable Enniscorthy volunteers have been out sampling water quality in the Slaney and its tributaries for the last few months and are finding that nitrates have been high for most samples so it sees lots of room for improvement.

Éanna Ní Lamhna (on left in photo above) is a nationally renowned Irish biologist, environmental consultant, radio and television presenter, author and educator and Sustaianble Enniscorthy was delighted to have her visit Enniscorthy last month to do a Slaney Biodiversity Walk for National Heritage week.

Éanna enthralled her audience with one attendee describing the event as “so entertaining... a mix of science, history, folklore, poetry. Éanna has such knowledge and good humour with it. Amazing”.

The event was organised by Sustainable Enniscorthy and supported by the Local Authority Waters Programme.

Thanks to Billy and Jonathan from Enniscorthy Tidy Towns for the event photos. n

The group says, “We have more sampling kits available for anyone interested in taking part. Just email sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com and we can arrange collection.”

For more information:

https://www.changex.org/ie/freshwater-watch/enniscorthy-co-wexford n

Conor does Wexford Macra proud

Wexford Macra would like to extend a massive congratulations to Conor Doran, who brought home the title of Biodiversity Young Farmer of the Year in the Macra/FBD Young Farmer of the Year last month.

Conor, a KIlrush/Askamore/Ferns Macra member, farms 30 acre of organic tillage with his father, Pat Doran. Having earned a Masters Degree in Sustainable Agriculture from UCD, he is both knowledgeable and passionate about the importance of maintaining space for wildlife on Irish farms. Conor also works as a Product Owner for Herdwatch, designing and deciding what new features come to the land management part of the app. Conor is the second generation of his family to gain recognition for their high level of farming, as his father Pat, a former Kilmuckridge Macra member, won the Macra All-Ireland Senior Farm Tasks in 1991, the Macra All-Ireland Beef Stockjudging in 1994, and the Ag Quiz in 1995. Conor was one of six enterprising young farmers to make it to the final round of the competition, with the overall prize going to Dwayne Shiels from Donegal.

Conor would strongly encourage any young person to go ahead and join Macra, as it provides its members with immense opportunities to travel, compete, and most importantly, make new friends. Conor’s own Macra, Kilrush/Askamore/Ferns, hosts indoor soccer every Monday evening in Craanford Indoor Sports Complex at 9pm. The club recently travelled to Waterford for an immensely enjoyable afternoon of go-karting.

Last month, Kilmuckridge Macra held a fantastic night of music and dancing in Marty’s Bar, Oulart, featuring The Rattlin’ Rogues and DJ Steven Davitt. Their hard work planning the event certainly paid off, as the night proved to be a huge success. The club runs a hugely popular Pool Night in Marty’s Bar every Tuesday at 8:30pm, and is currently planning a course of jiving lessons, details of which are to be announced shortly.

Camolin Macra, the county’s youngest club, runs a Darts Night every Thursday evening at 8:30pm in the Pike Inn in Camolin. They hosted a great evening’s entertainment on the 6th of August, with music by Joe Hogan. The club are one of the many around Ireland who have benefitted from the Macra Young Farmer Exchange Programme, with their very own Aine Doyle having returned from a three month stint in Canada, where she stayed on a number of different types of farms and learned about Canadian agriculture.

Bree Macra recently held their AGM, electing Chairperson Sarah Byrne, Secretary Grace Kehoe, Assistant Secretary Sinead Kinsella, Treasurer Sinead Doyle, Assistant Treasurer Ruairi Ryan, and PRO Mary Byrne. The new committee are currently planning their year ahead, and are hoping to once again field strong teams in this year’s competitions, following on from their success last year in winning

the All-Ireland Public Speaking Final, and being the All-Ireland Runners-Up in Novice Debating and Impromtu Public Speaking.

The County round of the Table Quiz competition will take place in the IFA Centre on the 9th of September. Anyone interested in taking part should contact their local Macra club as soon as possible – Bree, Camolin, Kilmuckrudge, or Kilrush/Askamore/Ferns. Anybody unsure of which club is closest to them can contact County Chairperson Ronan Finn on 085 1286733.

The next County meeting will take place on the 7th of September in the IFA Centre at 8:30pm, with both current and potential members of all branches welcome to attend.

The County Executive is currently organising a night of music with local country music star Stacey Breen in the IFA Centre on the 13th of October. n

L-R: Macra President Elaine Houlihane, Conor Doran, FBD Insurance CEO Tomás Ó Midheach.

New dolmen trail opens in Bree

The beautiful and historic Ballybrittas Dolmen Trail, Bree Hill, was officially opened on 13th August 2023 by Cllr. John O’Rourke, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District. Bree Hill itself is a Coillte forest with three beautiful trails to enjoy in an area that was produced by a volcanic eruption roughly 400 million years ago. There are spectacular views to enjoy including the Blackstairs Mountains and, on a good day, Tuskar Lighthouse which is situated six miles southeast of Rosslare Europort.

Following the official opening, a 45-minute 3km walk took place from Bree Community Centre with its ample parking to the tomb site where local archaeologist Colm Moriarty spoke about the history and significance of the dolmen, which dates from the Neolithic Period (4000-2500 BC) and is probably Wexford’s oldest standing structure. There are only two known dolmens in the county which makes the site at Ballybrittas very rare and has the protection of the National Monuments Act. The Ballybrittas Dolmen tomb consists of two large portal stones and a backstone that support a substantial roof stone. In addition, the dolmen has two side stones and a sill stone, the latter located at the tomb’s east facing entrance. Together, these elements enclose a small rectangular chamber in which burial remains would have been placed. This form of burial monument is known as a Portal Tomb.

Local Councillor Cathal Byrne commenting on the new amenity said, “Well done to Bree Trails Committee, local landowners and Wexford County Council on their work on making this trail a reality following a grant of €50,000 being secured with assistance from local TD Paul Kehoe.”

Great credit is due to Bree Hill Trails Committee for their tremendous work on this wonderfully scenic trail.

The trail was funded by the Department of Rural and Commu-

nity Development under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) grant and by Wexford County Council.

For further information visit https://wexfordwalkingtrail.ie/Trails/bree-hill-trails-ballybrittas-dolmen-trail n

L-R: Cllr. Cathal Byrne, Betty Kelly (Bree Tracks & Trails), Colm Moriarty (Archaeologist), Rory O’Mahony (Wexford County Council), Shelia Moriarty (Bree Tracks & Trails), Madeline Quirke and Michael Delaney (Wexford Walking Trails). Pic courtesty of Betty Kelly.

Cllr John O’Rourke, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, cuts the ribbon accompanied by Cllr Cathal Byrne.

Wexford County Council

Anti-Dumping Initiative 2023

Have you an old mattress to be recycled?

Wexford County Council will accept mattresses for recycling from households (no commercial premises) at the 4 Household Recycling Centres on the specified dates as follows:

Gorey Household Recycling Centre

Enniscorthy Household Recycling Centre

New Ross Household Recycling Centre

Holmestown (Wexford) Recycling Centre

- 6th and 7th September, 2023

- 13th and 14th September, 2023

- 20th and 21st September, 2023

- 27th and 28th September, 2023

The opening hours of the Recycling Centres are: 08.15 to 12.00 & 13.00 to 16.00, Tuesday to Friday

MATTRESS AMN ESTY

s No mattresses will be accepted on Saturdays.

s Mattresses should be clean and dry.

s There will be a limit of 3 mattresses per vehicle and 1 visit per vehicle is permitted during the Amnesty Period.

s €2 entry fee applies at all Recycling Facilities.

For further information, please contact the Environment Section, Wexford County Council on 053-9196000 or customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie

The Green, Clonard Village Centre, Wexford, Y35 R288

T: 083 1172909

If you suffer from lack of sleep due to ongoing health issues, such as back or body pain, twisting and turning at night, age related, menopause/perimenopause etc, then choose the custom-designed O’Suan Sleep Support System –a series of carefully selected, high quality materials (cashmere wool, natural latex, coconut fibres and silk) layered according to your partricular body pressure over 2,000 individual pocket springs and encased in an easily removable, washable cover.

To find out more or to book a FREE Consultation and Scan (using cutting edge pressure mapping technology), drop in to the O'Suan Sleep showroom located at The Green, Clonard Village, Wexford Town, Y35 R288. Or contact Ray or Luke on: 083-1172909, email: wexford@osuansleep.com, www.osuansleep.com