Slaney News, Issue 149, October 2022.

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

Welcome to the October issue of the online Slaney News. In this issue we’ve given in to the inevitable and so Christmas features for the first time this year in the Slaney News. Two of the main attrac tions in Enniscorthy Santa’s Enchanted Christmas and the Santa Ex perience at Wheelocks are covered on these pages.

Christmas also came up for the first time at the September meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) with Cllr Jackser Owens mention ing Enniscorthy’s Christmas Lights. With talk in the air of the govern ment wanting festive lighting turned off nationwide as an energy saving measure, Cllr Owens was putting it on record that he wanted our town’s lights to be shining bright this Christmas. Director of Services for Wexford Co. Council (WCC) Carolyne Godkin advised Cllr Owens that the Council had received no instruction either way from government, so unless such an instruction comes, it looks like the lights will indeed be turned on this Christmas.

At that same meeting, Ms Godkin said that a sensory garden at the St John’s Community Hospital complex is in the pipeline, but that a skatepark for the town was not yet on the agenda but couldn’t be ruled out at some stage in the future.

The possibility of social housing being provided at the St John’s campus in Enniscorthy has been raised several times by Cllr John O’Rourke, and will be the subject of an initial meeting shortly be tween WCC and the HSE. The appointment of Mr Tom Fox as WCC’s new vacant homes officer was welcomed and may help bring some vacant homes back into use. Meanwhile, Cllr Owens re mains angry at the continued lack of emergency accommodation in Enniscorthy.

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

Frank Corcoran

SLANEY NEWS, CLONHASTON, ENNISCORTHY

Tel: 087-2403310 Email: slaneynews@gmail.com www.slaneynews.com Facebook: Slaney News Online: www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs PUBLISHED in Enniscorthy by Corcoran Print & Design

Disclaimer:

Slaney News reserves the right to accept or reject any advertisement submitted for publication.

Slaney News does not attempt to investigate or verify claims made in advertise ments 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 lia bility whatsoever in connection with advertising appearing in this publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that all articles published in Slaney News are true and accurate but if any errors do occur please let us know and we will gladly rectify them in our next issue.

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

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

SLANEY NEWS

Memorial Service

Beneath My Angels Wings is organising a a memorial ser vice for families bereaved by the loss of their children, in St Mary’s Church, Church Street, Enniscorthy, on international day of remem brance, 10th of October at 7pm. All wel come to at tend.

Vinegar Hill Toilet

The new, dry toilet located on Vinegar Hill was opened to the public on the 1st September. The opening hours are currently 9am to 5pm, seven days a week. The project will be reviewed later this month by Wexford Co. Council. n

Senator

Christmas – back with a bang!

Christmas is back with a bang on Slaneyside for 2022. Preparations are at an advanced state locally for all things Christmassy with details of a brand new programme of sea sonal treats for Enniscorthy set to be confirmed over the coming weeks. Locals and visitors can expect expanded festivities to commence earlier in November to accom modate a growing number of patrons and cater for more diverse audience expectations for winter festivals.

Most excitingly, visits to ‘Santa’s Enchanted Christmas’ begin five days weekly, Wednesdays to Sundays, from Nov 26th to Dec 22nd in a new location the building which currently houses the 1798 Exhibition on Parnell Road. Event organisers in conjunction with their creative and public relations partners Rathnure Pantomime Society, Red Moon Theatre and IM PART PR will transform the outdoor and interior spaces there while retaining all the best features of previous shows in the Castle. Improvements will see free onsite parking and a café serving tasty refreshments along with a professional photo stu dio selling mementos.

Promising value entry ticket prices from €12, they can now be purchased online at santasenchantedchristmas.ie

Sleepover packages with accommodation partner and main sponsor, the Riverside Park Hotel, are now available for priority booking from their hotel website www.riversideparkhotel.ie and include family tickets to visit Santa’s Enchanted Christmas.

In this season of goodwill, as a bonus, all event ticketholders get free additional entry to tour the Enniscorthy Elves’ ‘Rebels without a Claus’ walk-through workshop on the ground floor of Enniscorthy Castle in their own free time. The venue opens five days a week and doesn’t need to be pre booked. Patrons are encouraged to round off their time enjoying Enniscorthy with a spot of festive shopping in the town centre where there’s something to suit all budgets and plenty of friendly hostelries and restaurants to dine in too.

1798 Centre and Castle Manager Mico Hassett says, “The new location and event format will be a sight to behold with the whole scene set to incorporate special effects like sound and snow, creative graphics and an illuminated winter-themed ex

terior entrance. There will be plenty of elements of surprise as you enter inside to wander about the multiroom magical spaces featuring pop-up theatrical live characters from Alice in Wonderland, to angels, to Scooby Doo to be found along the way. Mrs Claus, helped by her superheroes, will then entertain and transport the kids towards Santa to visit with him and re ceive their seasonal reading gift; a magical time is in the bag for all in attendance.”

PR organiser for the event Sinead Dolan adds, “We still wel come families to take their own photos on their tours with us, and to keep watch for updates in the press and across our so cial media platforms online. I’d remind everyone to book ahead as this is the newest Christmas family attraction on offer in the south-east but being organised by the same passionate and experienced team so patrons can expect wonder to abound.”

Deputy Manager Eve Furlong says, “We are excited to be able to welcome more families than ever to a magical winter experi ence in Enniscorthy town providing the community and visitors with an enhanced level of entertainment and choice. The com munity aspect of the programme is being supported by Ennis corthy Municipal District / Wexford County Council and will be announced closer to November but it’s wonderful to see our historic 1798 Centre and Castle stay open to the general pub lic this year with plenty of commercial activity in the locality for November and December. Santa and his team have it all sorted for Christmas in Enniscorthy!” www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie n

Tanyard Lane closed until 14th October

To facilitate essential resurfacing works, the al leyway (Tanyard Lane) linking Rafter Street to the Parnell Road Car Park (Old Dunnes Car Park) will be closed from Monday 26th September to Friday 14th October, inclusive.

No pedestrian or vehicular access to the alleyway will be facilitated for the duration of the works. A pedestrian detour is in place through Grants Phar macy.

These works are weather dependent and as such the projected completion date may be subject to change.

Wexford County Council apologises for any incon venience caused during this time. n

Tanyard

The Village at Wheelocks Santa Experience

The Wheelocks have been growing fruit at the family farm since the 1950s. We are delighted to welcome you to our farm to experience the Vil lage at Wheelocks! Our newly devel oped 17-acre site is in a beautiful rural setting just outside Enniscorthy and easily accessed from the M11 motor way between Dublin and Wexford. Visitors can enjoy special walks, tours and activities throughout the year. Learn more about how we grow our famous Wexford Strawberries and even pick your own! Take a forest walk and visit the farm animals along the way.

The farm shop is a must visit, with a se lection of ice-creams, smoothies, lemonades, thickshakes and much more. Our strawberries and rasp berries can be purchased during our harvest season. We have a range of beautiful decorations and gifts in our Christmas shop. Our café serves delicious, freshly pre pared food all day and we are a proud member of the Wexford Food Family and Bord Bia, promoting the fi nest local Wexford produce in our café and shop.

We would like to welcome you to 2022’s

Magical Christmas Experience at The Vil lage at Wheelocks. This year marks our 4th year of festive fun, featuring a jolly journey on our woodland train through the tunnel of lights, followed by a trip through The North Pole’s Christmas Ad venture Land where you will meet Mrs Claus and a host of busy elves.

A new feature is our festive station where you can make your very own Christmas tree ornament.

Finish up with a much-anticipated visit with Santa Claus. A special gift awaits all children.

Complimentary Tea/Coffee or Hot Choc olate for all at The Merry Land Station.

Our experience will last approximately 35 minutes. While you are here you can avail of our Eat-in or Take-away menu.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our helpful Elves. There is no need to print off your booking confirmation, simply quote your order number and you will be checked in and sent on your way to our Magical Experience. You can also visit our retail shops located in our Courtyard area. Fingerprint Mementos, N-Hance Beauty and Tracey’s Cottage Garden.

Treat yourself to a stay in our 6-bedroom BnB, “Strawberry View”, which is lo cated onsite. To book our BnB you can ring 053-9201900, this can also be viewed on our website.

You can visit our website and book our Christmas Experience online at thevillageatwheelocks.ie

We would like to thank all our cus tomers for your loyal support over the year.

Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year to all the readers. n

Santa and his Elves at Wheelocks.

HSE marks Martin’s retirement

St. John’s Community Hospital in Enniscorthy recently marked the retirement of their HSE/South East Commu nity Healthcare colleague Martin Fitzhenry.

Martin Fitzhenry gave very valued service as a Community Mental Health Nurse in the Co. Wexford area and his in volvement with St. John’s was recalled in a presentation made to him there by Director of Nursing at the hospital Beryl McKee:

“On behalf of all the staff, the residents and families associ ated with St. John’s Community Hospital, we’d like to for mally recognise the outstanding contribution made by Martin Fitzhenry. Over a long number of years, Martin has supported older persons care through his expertise, advice and knowledge being available here.”

“Always approachable, Martin was skilled at keeping the person central in decisions and being solution-focused in the best interest of the residents. I know our gratitude and admiration is shared by our HSE colleagues in the mental health services locally. We in St. John’s thank Martin for his outstanding commitment and we wish him well on his re tirement.” n

Director of Nursing at St John’s Community Hospital Beryl McKee with the retiring Martin Fitzhenry.

Local musical raises €11,500 for Pieta charity

The team behind the hugely successful musical, Rock ‘n’ Roll to the Rescue, which ran in The Presentation Centre, Ennis corthy, during August, was delighted recently to present a cheque for the proceeds, €11,500, to the Pieta charity.

The main person behind the show was Adrienne Murphy who wrote and produced it. The team also included her husband Kevin, director Linda Hayes, musical director Tommy Renick and an all-star local cast in cluding leading man Cameron Cloke (Elvis) along with Dick Butler (the Big Bopper).

The talented cast also included John Barry, John Foley, Stephanie McKenna, and Jamie Murphy.

The wonderful musicians and singers in cluded The Bellefords, Dave Duffy, Shea Tomkins, Jimmy Shiel, Richard King, Liam Ascot, Colm Murray, Rachel and Sarah Greene, and Ella Barry.

The music, which was from the 50s and 60s, was performed live each night by the superb collection of local musicians named above. n

Toastmasters extends an Enniscorthy welcome

All are invited to go along to the ‘Open Evening’ being held by Ennis corthy Toastmasters on Tuesday 11th October 2022 at 8pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, and enjoy an evening of talking, listening and meeting members of Enniscorthy Toastmasters Club for a cuppa and chat.

Toastmasters provides a very supportive learning environment that will help take the fear out of speaking in public, learn new skills, develop confidence and provides the opportunity to meet new people. So whether you are new to public speaking or already have some experience, go along and see if it is something that interests you.

Sarah O’Connor of Enniscorthy Toastmasters says, “We welcome people from Enniscorthy and surrounding areas – and if you are new to living in Co. Wex ford it provides a great opportunity for you to network and meet new people. We especially welcome people from new communities living in Wexford and provide a supportive network where we all learn, grow and develop our speaking skills and gain confidence.”

Toastmasters is a non-profit organisation and welcomes people of all ages – so whether you are starting out on your working career, going to college or pre paring for that dreaded presentation or public speaking engagement – go along and “take the fear out of speaking in public”. n

Kevin and Adrienne Murphy with the cheque for €11,500 which they helped raise for Pieta.

Above left: Lilianne Foya and Sioshan Grijalba.

Above right: Ilatgatyta and Oksana Zavitash.

Below left: Lauren Dobbs.

Below right: Eva and Sharon Morrissey Lopes.

St Senan’s,

First Nationa

rst day at school in Junior Infants on atherine, Kayden and Liam Doyle.

Day at al School hy,

ay at school in Junior Infants on n, Cathal and Lauren Morgan.

2022

Above left: Aisling Morrissey, Sophie Morrissey Doyle, and Kevin Doyle.

Above right: Emily and Luke Ohelezo.

Below left: Theo and Marissa Fields.

Below right: Tosia Chomenko.

Saving energy, money and the environment

A well-attended and informative Energy Saving Expo was held on Saturday October 1st in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, hosted by the proactive Sustainable Ennis corthy group. Saving energy has never been more impor tant, especially in the face of significant increases in energy costs, so it was an opportunity for people to learn how to save energy, save money, and help the environment.

were lots of experts there on the day to give advice on energy-saving measures, energy efficiency products and other energy services as well as information on grants and other

And Enniscorthy Credit Union was there to help with Green Loans to support energy projects in the home.

event was focused on practical advice, simple steps and sharing information to improve the energy efficiency of our homes, and help people lower their energy bills this winter.

Enniscorthy can be contacted in several ways:

Above left: Dearbhla Ní Laighin (Sustainable Enniscorthy group) with Niall Stenning (HeatDOC Ltd). Above centre: Clare Kelly and Cliona Connolly (Wexford Co. Council’s environment section). Above right: Michael Bennett chatting to Áine Doyle (Enniscorthy Credit Union). Below left: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy getting sound advice from Ger and Liam Doyle (Liam Doyle Boilers). Below right: Some of the Sustainable Enniscorthy team happy with proceedings, L-R: Fiona McCoole, Feidhlim O’Shea, Bruna Araujo and Irene Cadogan.

Sustainable Energy

A monthly column

Sustainable Enniscorthy

The Slaney News is delighted to welcome the local Sustainable Enniscorthy group on board with their new monthly column, which in this issue looks at Air Quality.

Here at Sustainable Enniscorthy we hope you are enjoying the series so far as we continue to raise awareness of different aspects of sustainability in our community. Following on from last month’s introduction to the term Circular Economy and the role it can play in a thriving economy, this month we focus on health and wellbeing as we take a breath and consider the importance of Air Quality.

In Ireland, air quality is measured on a scale of 1 to 10, referred to as the Air Quality Index for Health (AQIH). On this scale the lower the score, the better the quality of the air and the lower the risks to our health. Poor air quality impacts our own health, and that of our families and friends, by increasing the risk of lung cancer, stroke, heart and respiratory diseases. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for monitoring air quality in towns and cities across the country. Last month the EPA published its annual report which esti mated that poor air quality contributes to 1,300 premature deaths annually in Ireland. The report is available on the EPA’s informative Air Quality webpage, where you can even check the air quality in Enniscorthy (see https://air quality.ie/). The report’s findings tell us that our air quality was within the Euro pean Union’s CAFE (Cleaner Air For Eu rope) Directive standards, however it did not achieve the new World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.

Knowing what contributes to poor air quality is the first step towards cleaner

air and healthier people. Air quality is impacted by many factors, however in Ireland two of the biggest problem pol lutants are particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), often from burning solid fuels, and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), often from transport emissions. By changing how we heat our homes we can reduce the amount of particulate matter pro duced. These can be smaller changes

Our transport choices can also im prove our air quality as diesel and petrol cars emit many pollutants, with diesel vehicles releasing more ni trogen dioxide (NO2) than petrol. Id ling a car also produces emissions and so, to protect the health of children, some schools are now im plementing no idling zones around school gates and drop-off areas.

Source: EEA, "Healthy environment, healthy lives", 2019. See: https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/healthy-environment-healthy-lives

like choosing suitably dried wood in stead of smoky coal, which produces a lot of particulate matter when burned. Or bigger changes like investing in insu lation and heating system upgrades so that no solid fuel is burned. To learn more about fuel choices and air quality see the EPA’s helpful infographic at https://www.epa.ie/environment-andyou/air/resources/airqualityhomeheat inginfograhpic.php. New regulations on solid fuels are being introduced to improve air quality across the country and you can read more about them at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/e3da2-airquality/?referrer=http://www.gov.ie/cleanair/

Public transport options like buses and trains also emit pollutants, how ever they emit far less per passenger and so are a better choice to reduce air pollution, and traffic congestion too. The best transport choice to im prove air quality and health is active travel options, like walking and cyc ling, and we speak more about these later in our series.

If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or keep informed of our initiatives, please fol low us on Facebook or email sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com

A fond farewell

One of Enniscorthy’s best loved and busiest shops reached the end of an era last month as its owner, Albert O’Callaghan, retired after fi teen years at the helm of O’Callaghan’s Centra in Templehannon, and after forty-two years in total in the retail trade.

Albert’s first retail experience was in 1980 working in a cash & carry while still a student in college, and in 1984 he started work in an L&N shop in his native Tipperary as a trainee manager. In 1994 he moved to Enniscorthy as manager in the L&N (which later became SuperValu) in Abbey Square (where Eurogiant is now). In 2003 he moved to BWG (Spar, Londis, Mace etc) as a retail adviser, before finishing up at Musgraves (Ireland’s largest grocery distributor) as regional manager.

In 2007, Albert bought the existing Gala store in Templeshannon turning it into the thriving Centra shop it is today.

Albert would like to thank, and is indebted to, the management and staff of the shop. And also the loyal customers in the Shannon and surrounding local areas, and in the nearby villages such as Monagear, The Ballagh, Glenbrien etc, for their kindness and support.

The new owner, Ian Coughlan, is no stranger to the retail trade, having grown up and worked in the family’s SuperValu shop in Dublin. Ian now runs two shops in Dublin and Kilcoole and is hugely looking forward to taking over from Albert in Templeshannon.

Long-serving manager Robert Murphy and the rest of the team will continue to work there so it’s business as usual in Centra, Templeshannon. n

Business as usual. Retiring owner Albert O’Callaghan (right) wishes new owner Ian Coughlan every success for the future with the Centra shop, Templeshannon, Enniscorthy.

Below: Albert and Ian with long-serving shop manager Robert Murphy and two regular shop customers, Mary Hyland and Terry Brady.

ARE WE AT THE PEAK OF THE HOUSING PRICE MOUNTAIN?

One can click on to gov.ie and scan the C.S.O. stats to obtain all the raw details of the latest housing price index. How to decipher the informa tion while explaining the reasons why and predicting future trends is the hard part. There are many pro fessionals earning a good living at this practice.

The residential property price index is now 0.8% higher than at the height of the boom in April 2007. This is a sober ing headline. Anyone seeking to get on to the property ladder in the last year will tell you a few facts. House prices have risen steadily and one could ex pect a bidding war with most proper ties on the market. At the time of going to print, the median price of a dwelling within the last 12 months was in excess of €300,000. House prices seem to be stabilising and the immedi ate trend is showing a definite slowdown in price rises, also the practice of bidding wars has slowed with more and more properties realising the listed price despite being at a premium price.

So what did cause the overheating in the market within the last twelve to twenty-four months and what are the factors for the sudden brakes on rising prices? It is no secret that supply and demand was the major factor in the steady increase in house prices. There was a deliberate halt in council house building after the crash in 2007 due to budget con straints hence the hous ing crisis. I mention this too as a reminder where the issue originated from. Construction workers had to leave the country to gain employment. This is over a decade of underactivity in the sector.

TOWN TALK

Supply did cause the sharp rise in pric ing and supply is a factor in the stabil ising of pricing in the immediate term. This extra stock entering the system is due to what is called accidental land lords exiting the market. A lot of those landlords were in the industry acciden tally with pension payments put into property and now they are cashing in when the prices are high. Some are also exiting due to the mood music as to what may happen with taxes on property with future governments. This has caused higher numbers of houses on the market than usual.

WITH KEITH DOYLE

When there was an uptake in the sec tor and workers in the system came home, we had Covid and now the in creases in the prices of materials. I understand at least one social housing organisation has the mind-set to slow housing starts because of the price of raw materials.

Buyers are experiencing many issues at present which is causing some to shelve their dreams of owning their own homes: The increased cost of living with a staggering rise in inflation. The increased interest rates and the loom ing recession leading to worries about job security. In England, banks are pul ling mortgage offers due to instability in the global markets. This all con tributes to the present stalling of the housing bubble albeit at very high levels. Despite the alarming storm clouds overhead, supply and demand will keep house prices high for the immediate future.

There are so many negative forces surround ing the sector it is hard to anticipate how house prices will react in the short to medium term. The preferred outcome would be that it has levelled and a slow and orderly descent in the mar ket in order to avoid a crash. A crash brings its own devastating social is sues. A word of warning, this industry has always worked on a boom and bust cycle. One would fear that the bust cycle may not be too far away. n

Enniscorthy Community College

Great range of courses available at Enniscorthy Commu nity College. Check them out at: https://www.enniscor

St. Patrick’s Christmas Fair

Sunday 4th December 2022

St Patrick’s School, Enniscorthy, will be holding a Christ mas Fair in the new school on December 4th. If you would like to put in a stall please contact Catherine Cloke on 086 4079966. n

Oulart storytelling house back open

Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart reopened, after a long closure, on the 11th July.

great welcome awaits all, with good music, songs, stories and plenty of craic, tea and refresh ments served. Eircode: Y25 YP70.

For details of upcoming events keep an eye on:

County Development Plan

The Wexford County Development Plan 2022-2028 was adopted by Wexford County Council on 13th June and came into effect on 25th July 2022.

Plan is available to view here https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/en/consultation/wexford-county-developmentplan-2022-2028 n

ENNISCORTHY

WELCOMING

Enniscorthy Library events

For upcoming Enniscorthy Library events see:

book your place by contacting 053 9236055.

Enniscorthy Toastmasters

THE BUDGET

The recent budget has been hailed by some as a giveaway to all sectors. How ever, if you are a pensioner or a social welfare recipient the giveaway doesn’t kick in until January 2023. By then any advantage will have been well eroded by hyper inflation of probably 12% a month and any benefit will have well dis appeared. The two double weeks pen sion payable between now and Christmas (one really, because the Christmas double was there most years until Fine Gael and Labour scuppered it between 2011 and 2016) will mean little in the overall balance. Most people, in cluding those working hard to make a living, can do little but hold their breath and hope for the best. Confidence in this government being able to see us through this crisis is extremely low and clearly not helped by some of the lit erally insane policies being pursued re lentlessly by the Greens. Many, probably most, people see the Greens as being totally uncaring to the plight of so many hard- pressed families in these difficult times. Perhaps, even if just to save themselves, the time has come for Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael to stand up to them and tell them to hike off on their bikes if they are not prepared to com promise on some of their agendas.

ENERGY CRISIS

Unfortunately, we have not even been remotely impacted yet by the problems surrounding energy supply and price. As the winter progresses we will see the re sults of poor planning by successive Irish governments with regard to such a vital resource for this country. We have no gas storage facility, are totally depend ent on the UK, and have little prospects of having such a facility because of, guess what, opposition from the Greens. The Greens believe that the way forward is through wind energy etc. but recently at least two companies involved in that sector have pulled out of Ireland stating that the amount of ridiculous regulation here makes it impossible for them to op erate. So not only are we preventing the storage of gas but we are also making it impossible for the alternative providers to operate.

View from the Centre

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

BRITISH CRISIS

Looking at the mess that Liz Truss has caused in relation to the British economy probably makes us remind ourselves that as the old saying goes, “We’re bad here but we could be a helluva lot worse.”

VERONA MURPHY TD

Verona Murphy like all politicians has her supporters and indeed her detractors. But think what you like of her, it has to be said that she is a straight talker and takes no nonsense from the bureaucrats who sometimes try to overlord us. Her

performance at the recent health com mittee interaction with the HSE is a case in point. She certainly spoke clearly and without fear in pursuit of the information she was seeking. In a nutshell, as she said herself, she takes no BS.

ROADS MAINTENANCE

The condition of some of our county roads leaves a lot to be desired to say the least. Even after a good dry summer, some of the surfaces are falling apart. The possibility of a bad or difficult winter adding further damage is very real. Re pairing damaged cars is extremely ex pensive apart from the danger to cyclists and motorcyclists caused by gaping pot holes filled with a bit of tarmac. Louth Co. Council some time ago purchased a pothole-fixing machine which appears to be very successful in permanently repair ing even major potholes. Surely, what ever the initial cost, and in view of the fact that no grants will be available for years to permanently surface our county roads, such an investment should be con sidered. The long-term saving should be obvious. At least when the machine re pairs a road it is done and it won’t be necessary to have men and trucks on the same roads day in and day out throwing gravel into the same holes. These men and equipment can be used for other purposes such as clearing the roadside drains and culverts to ensure that water leaves the road rather than logging, flooding and dangerously freezing over in wintertime.

CAR THEFT

The robbery in broad daylight of catalytic converters from cars is very worrying. Those involved in this apparently have no fear of the law or the car owners and are prepared to challenge an owner if con fronted. These are dangerous people and obviously someone somewhere is paying them handsomely for their efforts. CCTV is not a deterrent and trying to find an answer to the problem is difficult. The only solution that I see is that the car manufacturers will have to come up with some other mechanism to do the job of the present converters. This problem must be worldwide so therefore one would imagine that the search for a sol ution is equally broad. n

Liz Truss

Little Blue Heroes to the rescue

Little Blue Hero Joseph Masterson, aged nine, in his distinctive Garda cap and uniform with Reg No H.G. 187 on the shoulder, came to the rescue recently as two retired Gardaí needed someone they could trust to help them promote their new book about the 100-year history of the Guards in Co. Wexford, titled ‘The Guards: Policing County Wexford 1922 to 2022’.

H.G. (Hero Garda) Joseph Masterson was de lighted to help out the authors, retired Garda Sergeant Tom Miller and retired Detective Garda Tony Fagan, both of whom served in the Enniscorthy district. They in turn com mended Joseph and his colleague Little Blue Hero, Calum Buckley, aged 10, for their bravery in dealing with serious illness.

Among the attendance was Noel Ronan, re tired chief of police in Chicago, a native of Courtnacuddy, and Linda Masterson, Jo seph's mother and Claire Buckley, Calum's mother with his grandmother Catherine.

The Little Blue Heroes foundation Gardaí helping seriously ill children, supports families of children with serious illness while empowering the lives of the children.

Liam Griffin, hotelier and hurling manager, will launch the book at the Ferrycarrig Hotel on Monday 24th October at 7.00pm.

See more on page 36. n

Two Little Blue Heroes, nine-year-old Joseph Masterson (Hero Garda 187) and ten-year-old Hero Garda Calum Buckley show off posters for the new book ‘The Guards: Policing County Wexford 1922- 2022’ by Tom Miller and Tony Fagan, during a recent photo-op at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.

Back row L-R: Retired Garda Sergeant Tom Miller, author of ‘The Guards’, Sergeant Sylvia Ryan, Superintendent Jim Doyle, Garda Sinead Byrne, and retired Detective Garda Tony Fagan, co-author of the book.

Closing date for the Enniscorthy Credit Union Scholarship Draw is Saturday October 29th so download a form and get applying! You just need to be in college and a member. Download forms here: https://www.enniscorthycu.ie/scholarship-draw/ Enter today, you could be lucky!

The bridge over the Urrin at the Prom in Enniscorthy is currently closed to pedestrians following a recent incident when a car is believed to have been driven up the steps. An initial estimate of €80,000 was put on the cost to repair the damage and at the time of going to print no date has been set as to when the work will be carried out.

First week in school

Scoil Naomh Maodhóg Ferns, 5th Sept 2022

Scoil Naomh Maodhóg Ferns 5th September 2022:

Above left: Brothers Bobby, Finn and Charlie Murphy as Charlie (front) starts school.

Above centre: Joe Fortune.

Above right: Molly Moulds with her dad Colm. Left: Dylan and Ben Nolan, as Ben starts school.

Right: Kelly Daly.

Below left: Darragh Kennedy had his friend Henry Bailey to help him.

Below centre: Rosie Knight. Below right: Morgan Cardas.

Kennedy Park First Week at School

Kennedy Park National School, 6th Sept 2022.

Top left: AJ Broaders-Kelly was there for his sister Zara.

Top centre: Yvonne and Michelle Black. Top right: Amelia Rose Byrne. Above left: Esniai and Lorcan Clancey. Above centre: Conor Goggin who started school with his big brother Cathan. Above right: Hazel had her dad Killian and brother Archie to bring her to school. Left: Alina and Simon Mihuí. Right: Little Cillian Robinson with his sister Jenny and mum Cara. Below left: Killian, Hazel and Archie Murphy.

Below centre: Louis O’Dowd and Pearl Ryan. Below right: Craig and Layla Roche.

Síolta (The National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education) has awarded both Carraig Bríste Early Years (Davidstown) and Killegney Early Years (Clonroche) the highest possible quality award. Orlagh Doyle, proprietor of both, says, “Through blood, sweat and tears, and a timescale of three years, with our team, we did it. The highest quality award attainable in Ireland was delivered to us this week. The most remarkable achievement was to re ceive full marks for quality in all 16 standards.

“For James and I, it is great to work with a team that is so self-reliant and motivated. Without their endless support Carraig Bríste and Killegney would not have achieved this milestone. Despite their busy schedules, each and every one of them contributed to making the Síolta project look easy. I thank each member of our team for their amazing dedication and effort!”

Orlagh Doyle, proprietor of both Carraig Bríste and Killegney Early Years, with her Síolta quality certificate award, the only recipient in Co. Wexford.

Carraig Bríste and Killegney now certified to highest national standard

Orlagh Doyle (back left) proprietor of both Carraig Bríste and Killegney Early Years, with some of the team members and children, and the Síolta award.

Trish’s Slimming World group raises over €700 for cancer charity

Enniscorthy Slimming World co-ordinator

Trish Dagg says, “I'm always blown away by the generosity of my members, and this August, in my Slimming World group at Enniscorthy Rugby Club, we raised just over €700 for the Irish Cancer So

ciety, helping to fund life-saving research and support those with Cancer, as well as learning all about how Slimming World's activity programme really com plements our Food Optimising eating plan by helping members improve their

Grants Pharmacy sponsors medical kit

Grants Pharmacy has kindly sponsored a Medical Kit for the Moyne Rangers Women’s team who have recently commenced their league campaign. Shauna Redmond is pictured receiving the Medical Kit from Glenn Nolan of Grants Pharmacy.

Keep up to date with all the Moyne Rangers teams on: https://www.facebook.com/MoyneRangersAFC/ n

overall health and wellbeing.”

Pictured above are just a few of the members who helped raise this fantastic amount, with Trish Dagg, third from left.

Trish can be contacted 087 3607615 n

First day in school

Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh, 2nd Sept 2022

Above left: Ciara Boggan and Ewan O’Connell.

Above centre: Cathy Quirke, in middle, had her brother and sister, Senan and Julie, to bring her to school on her first day. Above right: ‘Thanks, dad.’ Elorah Sinnott with her dad Paul.

Above left: James, Andrea and Molly Whelan. Above centre: Byan, Caleb, Evelin and Baby Benjamin Rubil. Above right: Michael and Emmet Deegan.

Above left: Kevin and Eoghan Kenny. Above centre: Evie Nolan. Above right: Connie McDonald.

Closing of Our Lady’s Island pilgrimage by Bishop Ger Nash on 8th Sept 2022

Left: Frances Thorne.

Above: Kathleen McLeish and Nuala Ryan.

Right: Joan and Anthony Dunne.

Bishop of Ferns Ger Nash closed Our Lady’s Island Pilgrimage on 8th September 2022.

Left: Breda and John Foley.

Above: Trish Murphy-Cullen and Mary Deegan.

Right: Thomas and Eithne Hayes.

Left: Anne and Jim Murphy.

Above: Mag and John Connors.

Right: Mary Keating and Nancy Foley.

Top: Bishop of Ferns Ger Nash walks among the crowd.

Left: Bishop of Ferns Ger Nash with members of the Clergy before Mass at Our Lady’s Island.

Above: Pauline Davey greets former bishop Denis Brennan.

Below left: Vinnie Staples, Eileen and Phil Berry.

Below centre: Matthew Stafford, Elysbeth and Mary Furlong.

Below right: Ann Dempsey.

Trees, honey bees, and bikes for church car parks in Wexford town

In church car parks in Wexford town in Ireland’s sunny southeast in the near future, you will walk into pocket for ests of trees and you will hear lots of honey bees buzzing as they work to keep food on your table.

You will also be able to park your e-bike or your e- car conveniently and powering up electrically while you go to the Li brary, the Opera in High Street, go downtown to shop, saunter along the Quay, walk the Wexford Cultural Spine or drop into the churches at Rowe Street and Bride Street to pray.

All will be explained at a public meeting themed “Our Greatest Challenge” at White’s Hotel, Wexford, tonight (Thurs day 6th October) from 7pm to 9pm. Ad mission is free and the organisers say you can ask difficult questions!!!

And there will be music from the beauti ful Wexford Female Vocal Ensemble.

Dr Noel Culleton, a scientist and author of several books on climate and on clas sical music, is chairman of a new group called Care for the Earth. They are the organisers of the public meeting.

The group comprises also church leaders Bishop Nash, Fr Billy Swan, Fr Terence Bateman of the Catholic church, Victoria Hawkins of the Church of Ireland, and several Wexford high-profile civilians Helen Corish Wylde, Don Curtin, Gerry Forde, Mary Ellen Hawkey, James Kells, Brother Eamon McLochlinn and Ibar Quirke.

They are worried about the impact of cli mate change, which they say is our greatest challenge, and they have joined

in a massive campaign to stamp out the dreaded carbon footprint. They want us to know how we can do it. They will talk too about biodiversity, a long word which simply means the importance of hedgerows, gardens, lawns and insects and bees.

Gerry Fleming, Meteorological Consul tant, famed for his wink on the weather on RTÉ television, and Rev. Trevor Sar gent, a horticulturist and one-time leader of the Green Party, will voice their opinions at the meeting.

Dr Noel Culleton, one of Ireland’s orig inal climate worriers when he was with the Department and in Brussels, and as head of Johnstown Castle, regards the public meeting at Whites Hotel as cru cially vital to our health, our well-being, and our future. n

Marshalstown school extension

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has said that initial project approval has been granted for an extension project for Marshalstown N.S.

Minister Browne commented, “I am de lighted to confirm that the Department of Education has given the go-ahead for the development of an extra multi-pur pose classroom and two Special Educa tional Needs base units.

“I have stressed to the Minister for Edu cation the importance of encouraging schools to apply for special education

needs facilities. It is very welcome that her Department has approved this pro ject. I wish to commend the staff of Marshalstown N.S. for their continued good work in this area and I’m sure this

extension will greatly benefit the wider school community. I will continue to work with Minister Foley to assure the delivery of this extension and refurbishment pro ject”, Minister Browne concluded. n

Dr Noel Culleton

Gerry Fleming

Rev. Trevor Sargent

Social prescribing in Co. Wexford

Wexford Local Development’s Social Prescribing Launch in the Riverside Park Hotel, 15th September, 2022, L-R: Emily O’Rourke, Tina Kelly and Sandra Walsh.

The Wexford Social Prescribing Service is a free support, pro vided through Wexford Local Development (WLD), that aims to reduce social isolation and improve people’s health and wellbeing.

The purpose of Social Prescribing is to work with individuals to explore what is important for their life and wellbeing, help them identify local activities and services they can benefit from and sup port them to start engaging in these services.

The Wexford Social Prescribing Service is available in the catch ment areas identified in Co. Wexford as: Wexford Urban, Tagh mon, Enniscorthy Urban and Oylegate.

Social Prescribing is about supporting the health and wellbeing of people by using community-based activities and supports, such as exercise, art, reading and gardening. There may also be an oppor tunity to attend self-help sessions such as stress control.

The programme is for you if you feel that you need some support

Socal Prescribing Launch in the Riverside Park Hotel, L-R: Annette Dupuy, Healthy Wexford, Noreen Kehoe and Mark Cooke, Enniscorthy Community Allotments.

to mind your health and wellbeing or if you feel lonely, stressed, anxious or depressed. Using resources within the community will help you to benefit from meeting other people or taking part in a new activity.

Your GP or other health professional will refer you to the Social Pre scribing link worker or you can refer yourself. The link worker will meet you to discuss your needs and the various Social Prescribing options available. You then begin your chosen activity with support from your link worker who will make contact with you after a number of sessions to discuss how you are getting on.

If you are interested in participating in the Social Prescribing for Health and Wellbeing Programme, talk to your GP or other health professional or contact the Social Prescribing link worker in your area to find out more.

Lisa Johnston, the WLD Social Prescribing Link Worker, can be con tacted on 087 2124244. n

Wexford Local Development’s Social Prescribing Launch in the Riverside Park Hotel, L-R: Jason Carroll, Family Carers, Annette Wall and Alice Doyle, Wexford Mental Health.

L-R: Martin Haughton, Wexford Mens Shed, Lisa Johnston, Social Prescribing Link Worker, Wexford Local Development, and Brendan Tormey, Wexford Mens Shed.

First Gardai came to Co. Wexford 100 years ago this month

The first members of An Garda Sío chána arrived in County Wexford 100 years ago this month (October) taking up residence first in Wexford town and then in Enniscorthy town before more were assigned to other towns and out lying rural villages in the following year.

Wexford town was first with a consign ment of two sergeants and 12 Gardai taking up residence in a vacated RIC bar racks beside Whites Hotel on 7 October 1922. Enniscorthy was next with another two sergeants and 12 Gardai arriving to set up barracks in a house in Court Street, now a bookshop, on 24 October.

That’s according to a new book titled The Guards sub-titled Policing County Wexford 1922- 2022 by Tom Miller, a his tory graduate of Maynooth University

and a former Garda Sergeant in Ennis corthy, with former Detective Garda Tony Fagan, also of Enniscorthy, researcher and compiler of a list of Gardaí who served in about 35 Garda stations in the county over the past 100 years.

Liam Griffin, hotelier and former hurling manager, whose late father Michael was a Garda in Rosslare, will launch the book at the Ferrycarrig Hotel on Monday 24 October 2022 at 7.00pm.

The Guards is an illustrated book of 396 pages giving the story in Tom Miller’s words of the enormous political, social and security issues that about 2,800 members of An Garda Síochána dealt with since they arrived in the county. It gives account from a Garda viewpoint of many incidents from 1922, including

burning of big houses, de-railing of trains, Garda interventions before, dur ing and after World War II including Ger man bombs in Campile and in the Blackstairs mountains, campaigns by the Old IRA and the Provisional IRA, the years of the Troubles, the murder of Garda Seamus Quaid, clerical child sex ual abuse in the diocese of Ferns, kid nappings, murders, bank robberies and drugs abuse.

The front cover shows a visit by Taoi seach Eamon de Valera to Enniscorthy in 1958. Inside are many other photo graphs including members of the last RIC Station in Enniscorthy, a group of early Gardaí, the Kyle IRA flying column, and Garda achievements in the commu nity and in hurling, football and in sports nationally and internationally. n

Above: Author Tom Miller. Below: Tony Fagan, co-author and researcher.

First week in school at Davidstown

Courtnacuddy N.S. 7th September 2022.

Left: Farrah and Alfie are happy reading.

Above right: Well behaved pupils, Amy, Aoibheann and Margaret Rose.

Right: Kayla, Kaci and Sarah enjoying a break.

Left: Enjoying a bit of reading were Caoimhe and Nicola. Above: Kaiden and Harry. Right: Fionn and Kaiden.

John Lyndon and Saoirse Bates.

Above left: The class photo (one pupil missing) of Courtnacuddy NS as they commence school with teacher Áine Whelan. Above right: Peek-a-boo with Saoirse, another Saoirse and Rose.

Taking to the hills!

Joanne Doyle, Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation liaison nurse manager for Wexford.

People are being urged to ‘Take to the Hills for Jack and Jill’ this October to raise money to fund home-nursing care for 21 local children.

Every day can be an uphill challenge for Jack and Jill families and, this October, the charity is urging people to climb or walk a local hill in solidarity with the 21 Wexford families currently under its care as part of the eighth annual Up the Hill for Jack and Jill fundraising challenge, proudly sup ported by Abbott.

This is a significant year for the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, as it celebrates 25 years of funding and providing specialist inhome nursing care and respite support for children with severe to profound neurode velopmental delay, up to the age of six. This includes children who may have a brain in jury, cerebral palsy, a genetic diagnosis or other undiagnosed condition. Another key part of the service is end-of-life care at home for all children up to the age of six who require it, irrespective of diagnosis.

The nationwide charity has reached its own summit in 2022 by providing support to 412 children, the highest number in its 25-year history. Indeed, Jack and Jill has provided support to 136 Wexford families since it was first established.

With Jack and Jill, there is no means test, no waiting list and no unnecessary red tape. The core nursing team devises a home-nurs ing care plan that is tailored around the

child and the family’s needs, with the charity funding and providing up to 80 hours sup port each month. Jack and Jill’s funding model relies heavily on public donations to mobilise over 500 nurses and carers at com munity level and, in 2021, they delivered al most 110,000 hours of in-home nursing care and respite support.

Jack and Jill Liaison Nurse Manager for Wexford, Joanne Doyle, says every parent needs a break: “It’s a privilege to be a part of the lives of Jack and Jill families. These are ordinary parents facing the extraordi nary care needs of a child with a complex medical condition; a child who may not be able to walk or talk, who may be tube-fed or oxygen-dependent, requiring intensive, around-the-clock care, at home. But every one needs a break, and that’s where we come in, literally, into the home, to give them relief and we are very proud to walk this care journey with them.”

For Carmel Doyle, CEO, Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation, charity really does begin at home with Jack and Jill: “Every year, it’s an uphill challenge to raise the money we require to provide our service. But, like the families we support, we just keep going, with a gentle push from the people who donate in the knowledge that their support means so much to local children... Every €18 raised funds one hour of in-home nursing support, allowing Jack and Jill parents to grab 40 winks, go for a walk with their other children, or get a cof

Pictured is Joanne Doyle, Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation liaison nurse manager for Wexford, who is urging people to go Up the Hill for Jack and Jill during the month of October. The Foundation, which this year celebrates 25 years providing specialist in-home nursing care and respite support for children with life-limiting conditions, supports a total of 21 families in Co.Wexford. Taking part in Up the Hill is simple – pick a hill, make a date, grab some friends, and go! Find out how you can support Jack and Jill families in your community at www.JackandJill.ie

fee, knowing that their precious child is being well cared for at home, where they belong. That sense of community really matters, now more than ever.”

3 Simple Steps to Go Up the Hill for Jack and Jill:

Step 1 – Register today for just €18 per per son at JackandJill.ie, which will support one hour of specialist in-home nursing care for a local Jack and Jill family. Your pack will in clude a colourful, eco-friendly, Up the Hill banner.

Step 2 – Choose your Hill. There’s a local hill around the corner to suit your fitness level and ability, and whether you go high or go low, it’s the taking part that keeps Jack and Jill on the go!

Step 3 – Grab some friends, family, neigh bours or colleagues, pick a date that suits and make it a day out to remember. Bring a picnic to celebrate when you get to the top and remember to take a photo with your Up the Hill banner and tag Jack and Jill on social media with #UptheHill22 so everyone can see you!

For more information on Up the Hill for Jack and Jill 2022, visit www.jackandjill.ie or telephone Jack and Jill at 045 894538.

Follow on social media at Facebook @jack andjillfoundation; Instagram @jackandjillcf; Twitter @jackandjillcf; Tik Tok @jackandjillcf; and LinkedIn @Jack and Jill Children's Foundation and use #UpTheHill22 n

Putting podiatry services on a better footing

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has welcomed the HSE’s commencement of ex tended podiatry services in County Wexford.

Minister Browne said, “I’m delighted to confirm seven addi tional podiatry posts have now been approved for County Wexford. In July, two of these podiatry posts for County Wex ford commenced. These posts now offer services to the podi atry client cohort in Enniscorthy and Wexford town health centres. As soon as the remaining posts are filled, it’s antici pated that additional podiatry services will be made available in New Ross and Gorey health centres.

“The podiatry client cohort primarily consists of diabetic service users and other conditions such as peripheral vascular disease. The podiatry service generally accepts referrals from GPs and public health nurses.

“I will continue to make representations to ensure that the re cruitment process swiftly results in a strong podiatry service for County Wexford”, Minister Browne concluded. n

CFR course

Wexford Civil Defence in collaboration with Wexford Order of Malta, Enniscorthy Red Cross and the National Ambulance Service will deliver a Community First Responder (CFR) Course on Saturday 15th October. The course will take place in Wex ford County Council’s County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

Booking in advance is essential. n

ILLEGAL DUMPING IS STILL A PROBLEM

Wexford County Council launched a new online payment portal on 27th September, 2022.

The portal will allow customers for Commercial Rates, Housing Rents, Mortgages, Fire Charges, Marina Fees & Planning De velopment Levies to view and pay their account online.

Visit: https://wexfordcoco.myselfserv.ie/ n

There’s a lot of dumping and littering still happening around Enniscorthy particularly on the approach roads into town. Above is just one example of some at Carleys Bridge right at a "CCTV in Operation" sign!!! n

HSE/South East Community Health

care’s Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) in Co. Wex ford have been availing of an Equine Assisted Therapy programme, the benefits of which for clients and their families has been outlined in a presentation to stakeholders that have helped to fund the initiative.

An open afternoon was held recently at the Rag Tree Equine Assisted Learn ing Centre in Kilmuckridge, Co. Wex ford, to showcase the programme.

The Equine Assisted Therapy pro gramme at the Rag Tree centre has been supported in partnership by the HSE, the Waterford Wexford Educa tion and Training Board (WWETB) and Sports Active Wexford.

The programme is co-ordinated by the Senior Occupational Therapy service in CAMHS. The programme is facilitated over weekly sessions by certified Equine Assisted Learning and Thera peutic Horse Riding specialists and Rag Tree Centre proprietors Shelly Berry and Denis O’Connor. The senior Occupational Therapist and Social Care Leader from the CAMHS service also participate, to provide therapeutic support to young people during the sessions.

The current programme began in May 2021 and there are currently a cohort of 12 adolescents completing a fully funded 40-week (January to October)

Equine Assis

Equine Assisted Therapy is being utilised by

Those in attendance at the open afternoon included Fran Ronan (Co-Ordinator, Sports Active Education and Training Board), Shelly Berry and Dennis O’Connor (Rag Tree Equine Assisted Wexford CAMHS), Cllr. Mary F

Equine Assisted Therapy programme.

They will achieve three QQI level 4 qualifications, as well as completing Equine Assisted Learning activities.

There have also been seven 8-week

block programmes run in the past year, with eight children attending each block. These blocks offer a more shortterm intervention to support mental health and recovery.

Senior Occupational Therapist/ Wexford CAMHS Helen Ambrose speaking at the open afternoon in the Rag Tree Equine Assisted Learning Centre, Kilmuckridge, Co. Wexford.

sted Therapy

y the HSE’s CAMHS service in Co. Wexford

Wexford), Cllr. Garry Laffan (Chair, Sports Active Wexford), Brídín Moloney (Waterford Wexford Learning Centre) – all of whom spoke at the launch – Ann Marie Murphy (Social Care Leader, Farrell and Johnny Mythen TD.

Welcoming people (including some public representatives) to the open afternoon at the Rag Tree, Senior Oc cupational Therapist/Wexford CAMHS Helen Ambrose said:

“As Senior Occupational Therapist in CAMHS, I was delighted to be able to develop this programme in conjunction with partnership agencies as the first partnership programme of its kind na

tionally in CAMHS services. We have been fortunate, through the excellent Rag Tree facility and its specialist offer ing and the valued support of Sports Active and the WWETB locally, to avail of this programme and to make such a difference in the lives of young people and their families.”

“The open afternoon at Rag Tree was a chance to inform our partners, at close quarters, on what it is we do. The ex cellent work of participants and feed back from their families were relayed by various means, without them being present here on the day. Guests, how ever, were treated to a cup of tea, sandwich and cake and got to meet the real stars of the show – the horses!”

“Our experience is that the Equine As sisted Therapy programme is exciting, innovative and powerful for young people experiencing mental health dif ficulties. It is a model that could sup port other client groups attending the HSE’s mental health services.”

“Among the phrases to feature promi nently in feedback from families of par ticipants are ‘has grown in confidence’, ‘is once again full of energy’, ‘there’s more smiles and the whole family has benefited’, ‘it has helped establish a positive future’, ‘encouraged friend ships to develop’ and ‘life changing’.”

The HSE, in consultation with the vari ous partners, is currently reviewing re sources as regards further provision of the programme into the future. n

Oulart T Ballgh GAA Camogie Family Fun

Below: Laoire and Eve Wilshire, and Annie Heffernan.

Above left: Oulart The Ballagh GAA and Camogie Club Family Fun Day, Caitlin and Ava Kennedy. Above right: Sarah and Carol Dempsey. Below left: Sisters just hanging around, Marie and Keeva Hyland. Below: Breda Flood, Patrick Codd and Brendan Flood.

Left

Below: Ben

The A and Club n Day

ft: Sam and Lee Harpur. n, May, Amy and Joan Murphy.

Kate Dabrowski and Orla Mongan.

William and James Fortune and Natan Dabrowski.

Above: Chef Jimmy Kennedy at the BBQ. Below: Brian, Ian, Patrick and Eileen Codd.

Above: Kelly and Sam Harpur. Below: Bailey O’Connor and Catherine Murphy.

First week in school

St Kevin’s National School, Tombrack

St Kevin’s National School, Tombrack, Ferns.

5th September 2022.

Above left: Mary Rose Browne.

Above centre: Hailey Lombard.

Above right: Jacob Killeen.

Left: Mary Rose Browne, Mrs Kelly (teacher) and Wren Lavery-Murphy.

Below left: Glen Millar.

Below centre: Wren Lavery-Murphy.

Below right: Milo Atkinson.

Wexford set for new MRI Scanner

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has confirmed that on-site construction of a hospital-led MRI scanner for Wexford General Hospital is expected to get underway in 2023.

Design team letters for the MRI project have now issued. Welcoming the news, Minister Browne said, “I am delighted to confirm progress with Wexford General Hospital’s hospi tal-led MRI scanner. Construction of the hospital-led MRI scanner will get underway in 2023. It's anticipated that the facility will be ready for use in 2024. I have been assured that the existing MRI will remain fully functional until the hospital-led facility becomes operational.

"Many people across Co. Wexford donated money to support the HSE's purchase of a MRI scanner for the people of Co. Wexford. Following frequent conversations with my government colleagues and the HSE, I'm glad to confirm this positive news for Wexford General Hospital.

"I have made it a priority of mine to continue to press for the investment in Wexford General Hospital. I want to commend all the staff of the hospital who do their utmost in delivering a comprehensive healthcare service", Min ister Browne concluded.

Wexford Ambassadors Wanted!

Would you like to play a role in Co. Wexford’s new pilgrimage route? Are you interested in volunteer ing, or would you like to share Co. Wexford’s fasci nating history with visitors? Then why not become a Tourism Ambassador for your county?

People from all over Co. Wexford are invited to be come Tourism Ambassadors for their area. Free train ing will be held in October as part of Ancient Connections, an exciting heritage and arts pro gramme aimed at championing the local tourism economy and sharing the skills required to success fully and sustainably grow this industry.

Previous Wexford Ambassadors have used this train ing to become tour guides at local attractions and to partake in some of the fantastic events held by Ancient Connections, including art installations and storytelling festivals.

Free training is scheduled for the following dates and is open to anyone. To secure a place, visit www.ancientconnections.net/ourevents

The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: Saturday the 8th of October from 12:00-18:00 Saturday the 15th of October from 12:00-18:00 Saturday the 22nd of October from 11:00-17:00 n

First day in school

Piercestown National School, 1st Sept 2022

Piercestown National School

1st September 2022:

Above left: Des Simpson, Savannah Carol Simpson, Cian and Regina Simpson.

Above right: Alex Moran, Fianna Devereux, Grace Furlong and Kate Kenny.

Left: Darren and Sean Sane.

Right: Two handfuls! Oscar and Mason Cullen McMahon.

Below left: Megan Bolger.

Below centre: Kate Murphy.

Below right: Deirdre and Jack Browne.

Piercestown National School

1st September 2022:

Above left: Finadh Cullen McMahon.

Above centre: Belinda and Reuben Moore.

Above right: Alan and Alison Morris.

Left: Ben Walsh and Amy Ryan.

Right: Leslie and Tilly Rossiter.

Below left: Eva Coleman, Lena and Dylan Foley.

Below right: Declan, Chloe and Lorraine Stamp.

Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following posts: Assistant Engineer Executive Quantity Surveyor Temporary Executive Engineer

Sports Development Officer (3 year Contract)

Selection for all posts will be by means of interview and candidates may be shortlisted based on applications submitted. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.

Qualifications, application forms and further particulars for these posts are available from our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie

Please note all applications for the above posts must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie

Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above posts.

Closing date for receipt of completed application form for these posts is: 5.00pm on Thursday 20th October, 2022.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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 50-70).

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 5.00pm on Wednesday 4th November 2022.

Application forms and accompanying explanatory docu ments 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.

Notice to Mariners No.13 of 2022

Wexford Harbour, Chart No. 5621.15, 1772 & 2046

To all skippers, fishing vessels, pleasure craft users, and members of the public. Vessel exclusion zones for Wexford Festival Opera opening ceremony

To facilitate the fireworks display for the opening ceremony of the Wexford Festival Opera. All skippers/vessel owners are requested to remove their vessels from the exclusion zone marked in the attached map, for the period 1600hrs –2100hrs on Friday 21st October 2022.

Emergency vehicles will require clear access to Ferrybank Quay during this time; access will be limited to valid parking permit holders only. Members of the public are requested not to park on the Quay or on the approach road

Captain Phil Murphy Senior Marine Officer Wexford County Council

10/10/22

The Arts Department

Wexford County Council

Invitation to Artists to Tender for Art Ability Arts Programme, 2023-2025

Wexford County Council invites tenders from suitable, qualified and experienced artists in creative and visual art forms and/or companies for positions of 4 x Lead Artists to deliver the Art Ability Arts Programme.

Arts Ability is an inclusive, participatory arts programme which celebrates the artistic and creative imagination of people who experience mental health problems and/or intellectual, physical or sensory disabilities.

Captain Phil Murphy Senior Marine Officer

Wexford County Council

Notice to Mariners No.14 of 2022

Wexford Harbour, Chart No. 5621.15, 1772 & 2046

To all skippers, fishing vessels, pleasure craft users, and members of the public.

Restricted access to Ferrybank Slipway and Quay for Wexford Festival Opera opening ceremony

To facilitate the fireworks display for the opening ceremony of the Wexford Festival Opera. Access to the slipway in Ferrybank will be limited to emergency vehicles on Friday 21st October 2022.

Running since 2003, Arts Ability is an exemplar programme led by the Arts Office of Wexford County Council in partnership with The Arts Council, HSE Disability and Mental Health Services and partner venues. https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/arts-and-culture/currentprogrammes-plans-and-events/arts-ability-programme

Currently the Art Ability Programme focuses on visual arts and literature, however, other appropriate art forms and approaches will be considered. Full details will be available at www.etenders.gov.ie

Closing Date for Receipt of Tender is 14th November, 2022, 4.00pm.

Bree Count Music

Byrne’s Grai 3rd Septembe

Above: Enjoying Bree Country Music Fest in Byrne’s Grainstore, the Farrell sisters, Sally Ann, Deirdre, Trish, Gillian and Audrey. Below: Paula Gunning, Julie Gillfrisby, Lorraine Cullen and Frances Mejias.

Julie Dunne, Sharon M

Below left: Stuart Moyles, Anne Dillon and Philip Hughes. Below right: Mairead Murray and Liam Hickey.

e try Fest instore er

Above: Evelyn Kelly, Mary Foley and Mary Kelly. Below left: Katie Kelly and Rebecca Maher. Below right: Julie Dwyer.

Below left: Mary and John Kenny. Below right: Edel Gahan, Anne Delaney, and Sammy Crofts.

Murphy and Dawn Thomas.

Enniscorthy

ALAN POWER (CENTRE)

The South East Rock ‘n’ Roll Club is very proud to present a special double bill of incredible local talent on Saturday 8th October here in Enniscorthy – Ireland’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Town.

Featuring the wonderful BELLEFORDS who will be playing the Rhythm Riot in England just one week later one of the big gest RnR events on the planet.

The Club is also proud to present the full live performance debut of new rockin’ sensation ALAN POWER from Waterford with his new band THE AFTERSHOCKS.

That’s two incredible local acts that are really going places. This is a ticket-only event and there are unlikely to be any tick est available on the door. So get your tickets now through the ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll Town’ Facebook page before it’s too late!

And don’t forget, on same evening, 8th October, at 6pm downstairs in The Bailey, with Free admission, a night of country music and good old Rock ‘n’ Roll with Trader Sam on stage with Enniscorthy’s musical stalwarts Pat Murphy and Ri chard King. n

Mary

Ireland’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Town

Fintan to star in new production of classic play

Enniscorthy actor Fintan Kelly will be playing the lead role later this month in a new professional staging of 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' at Garter Lane Arts Centre, Waterford.

Fintan Kelly, Enniscorthy’s leading man of theatre, is delighted to be cast in Edward Albee's all time classic play. So prepare for a high-wire showdown in Stagemad Theatre Company’s production of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

The play will run for three nights only at Garter Lane Arts Centre, Waterford, as part of the Imagine Arts Festival from Thur 27th to Sat 29th October at 8pm nightly. Tickets are selling fast at the Garter Lane box office on 051 855038 or online at https://www.garterlane.ie So you are advised to book early for one of the great plays.

Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? centres around history professor George (Played by Fintan) and his wife, Martha, who re turn late one Saturday night from a cock tail party at the home of the college president, Martha’s father. Martha an nounces that she invited another couple, newly appointed instructor Nick and his wife, Honey, over for a nightcap. When the younger couple arrive, the night erupts into a no-holds-barred torrent of marital angst and verbal tirades in this Tony Award-winning all-time classic that is not to be missed.

“THE PLAY STUNS, AND REMAINS A STUNNING ACHIEVEMENT” NEW YORK TIMES.

“FUSES INTELLECTUAL AND DRAMATIC TENSION” IRISH INDEPENDENT.

AUDIENCES ARE LIKELY TO BE LACER ATED IN THE CROSSFIRE OF THIS EX PLOSIVE PLAY.”

“TOTAL WAR IN A THEATRICAL BATTLE LIKE NO OTHER” IRISH TIMES. n

Out and About in Enniscorthy o with Maria Nolan

Culture Night, 23rd September 2022, for me, began with a visit to Enniscorthy Castle at 6pm where members of Ennis corthy Drama Group brought history to life.

I was welcomed at the gate by the original owner of the Castle, Norman Knight Philip de Prendergast aka Niall Holohan, who extended a warm salutation and an invitation to enter.

It was downhill from there, I’m sorry to say, as I visited the un fortunate prisoner in the dungeon aka Ronan P Byrne, who was delighting UK visitors when I joined them with ghoulish tales of incarceration and torture.

Shriver Roche, aka FCJ TY student Karl Duffy, was entertaining himself in the beautiful drawing room on the second floor and went to great pains to show me lovely photographs of his family.

Eileen Gray, aka Jennifer Riggs Boyd, was a most gracious host pointing out her magnificent items of furniture on the third floor and discussing her rather unusual life taking her from Enniscorthy to Paris to the South of France where she designed her modernist villa E-1027 in the Roquebrune-Cap-Martin region.

Artist Padraig Sinnott playing himself, was happy to chat and even demon strate his work.

Well done to Mico Hassett and the staff of the Castle for opening their doors for this free and engagingly ac tive event.

From there it was on to The Presentation Arts Centre where the Travelling Community brought their culture to life through a series of beautifully produced and brilliantly illus trated films about painting wagons, the freedom of life on the road, and the magnificent manes of hair of female travellers and their desire not to cut them. The final film was a poignant piece about the bullying of a young traveller boy at school, with actor John Connors giving a tremendous per formance in the lead role of the boy’s father.

n Culture Night

Pilgrims at The Pres

Pilgrim Street will be performing at The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, on Friday 7th October at 8.30pm.

Strongly influenced by bluegrass, old time country and folk music, fused with traditional folk songs from this side of the At lantic, Pilgrim Street bring a warm and lively atmosphere to their music and performances.

To book, telephone 053 9233 000 or book online at: www.wexfordartscentre.ie/events/ n

Well done to Lisa Byrne and the Presentation staff and the Travelling Community for this most entertaining and in formative event.

Such was my enjoyment of the events organised here in Enniscorthy that I am tempted to ask should we not have more than one Culture Night in a twelve month period and should Culture Night not be part of our summer tourism programme.

Join Calodagh McCumiskey in Enniscorthy Library for a Mindfulness evening class. Free event, all are welcome. Booking is essential. Phone 053 9236055

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES

Wexford Arts Centre:

Glynn Barntown

Glynn Barntown Ladies Gaelic Football Club Family Fun Day in the club on 4th September 2022.

Above left: Chef James Flood looking for customers for his BBQ. Above: Niamh Kidd, Ciara Hayes and Samantha Curry. Left: Phil Lawlor of Glynn-Killurin First Responders putting young Niamh Denton and Eva Carley through their paces. Right: A.J. Doyle.

Below left: Burger time as Tina Carley and Susie Pierce tuck in. Below right: Jack Deavy, Cormac Carter and Aidan Laffan.

Family Fun Day

Above: Ciara Hyland has her turn hanging around while the others queue.

Above right: How long can you hang? Mathew Reynolds can do two minutes plus.

Right: Aoife and Niamh Carley.

Far right: Face painting Jenny Kidd and Grace Cullen.

Below: Young Caoimhe Byrne playing football.

Below right: Lara O’Shea and Eva Arthur.

Hits from the Musicals

Wexford Light Opera Society is de lighted to be back in Clayton Whites Hotel this year for the annual Hits from the Musicals to be held over 4 nights commencing on Monday 31st October and running until Thursday 3rd Novem ber during the Wexford Opera Festival.

The Hits from the Musicals will commence each night at 8pm and the musical playlist incorporates both old and new musical theatre treats incorporating the award-win ning chorus in addition to well-known WLOS performers who are delighted to be back on stage with WLOS once again.

Under the musical direction of Fintan Cleary and chorus mistress Eithne Cor rigan, it promises to be one of the fringe festivals highlights once again this year. Your MC for the evening will be the hilari ous Catherine “Biddy” Walsh.

Tickets are a steal at €25 and are available from the National Opera House Box Office on 053 9122144 or online: www.national operahouse.ie

Judith Rice, President of Actors’ Equity Foundation said recently having attended several performances of the Hits over the years: “I would place the extraordinary art ists of the Wexford Light Opera Society alongside the very best of Broadway. I hope my New York colleagues will one day have the opportunity to experience this re markable musical journey.” n

Wexford Light Opera Society in full voice.

Dancing with Declan

Keep up to date with the local dancing scene on:

Wexford Arts Centre

For details and updates on all happening in Wexford Arts Centre:

What’s On Wexford

Opinion You Didn't Ask For Podcast

Check out https://mailchi.mp/b8835026ca33/whats-happe

for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n

Enniscorthy Library

Wexford Public Libraries' YouTube Channel...

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

Baby & Toddler Time at Enniscorthy Library...

Every Tuesday at 10:30am Enniscorthy Library is delighted to welcome parents and guardians with their little ones for fun rhymes, stories and songs. Suitable for ages 0-4. The relaxed and friendly environment of the library is the perfect setting to make friends and introduce books and reading from an early age. Children must be accompanied and supervised by a par ent or guardian at all times.

Enniscorthy Library to book a place:

Events including children’s events and activities...

Stay in touch

Wexford Public Libraries Social Media:

Public Libraries on Facebook.

Public Libraries on Instagram

Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries.

"Wexford Public Libraries"

Opera fireworks

Wexford Festival Opera Opening Night Fireworks from 7pm, Friday 21st October 2022, on Wexford Quayfront.

Enniscorthy Library will be showing on 27th October Slings and Ar rows the first of five new films from Wexford Film Workshop star ring a wealth of Wexford acting talent, presented by Dubhtíre Films, written and directed by Dick Donaghue and produced by Jer Ennis. A teenage girl looking for ‘adventure' gets involved with the son of a drug dealer and abandons her best friend and greatly worries her parents who are concerned about her taciturn conduct. Will her ‘adventure’ lead to happiness or tragedy. Starring Maeve Ennis, Summer Venn Keane and Cameron Allan.

essential. Phone 053 9236055.

ENNISCORTHY

Enniscorthy

October

Wexford Maritime Festiva

Braving the weather was Lorraine Galvan and the Mayor of Wexford Maura Bell.

Eva Farrell and Noah Davis got to meet the Garda horses.

Handcuff me! Nathan O’Connor and Daniel Browne get to see the inside of a Garda black mariah.

Rasa Tumosoryte and Kristina Teiserske at the Maritime Fest.

Getting to know Wexford Customs sniffer dog Jaspar and her handler was Tara O’Brien.

A storm in a tea Little Lydia

Now that’s not nice as dad puts u Aoithinn, Colleen and Dad Richie M

Charlie and Tara Duffan got to see some of the displays at the Festival.

Tom Boggan meets one of the boa Kevin Flynn.

al 3rd & 4th September 2022

cup a bit like the weather on the Saturday. Gorden enjoying all the fun of the fair.

Children dancing to the sounds of Liam Sharkey on Wexford Quays on Saturday 3rd September.

The Wexford Ambulance Paramedic unit putting on a display.

us in a Garda black mariah! Murray at the Maritime Fest. Having a look at the boat building exhibit were Michelle, Charlie, Daniel and Pip Walsh.

Andrew Peter Mythen and Lewis Maher got the to see one of Brendan Rochford’s steam engines on display at Wexford Quays.

at builders Jake Lynch Walsh wants to know where’s the fire!

Marie Cullen and Finbar Doyle on the Wexford Civil Defence Rescue Raft.

Relaxing on Wexford’s Quays were Etan, Robyn and Kevin Smyth.

Indo Irish Cultural Evening

The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, 1st October 2022

A fabulous night of shared culture and entertainment was enjoyed by attendees at the Indo-Irish cultural event held at The Presentation Arts Centre on 1st October. It was organised by Dr George Leslie, with special guests Cllr Cathal Byrne (Vice-Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Lalu Paul, Myles Courtney, Jimmy Gahan, Calo dagh McCumiskey, award-winning filmmaker Michael Benson (to whom there was a special tribute), and with video link from the Indian Ambassador Akhilesh Mishraji. Entertainment was provided by Eileen and John Dempsey and the storytelling group from Oulart, and beautiful dancing by the world famous Ruth Prathika who mesmerised the entire audience!

Maria Nolan

Photos courtsesy of Maria Nolan and Dr George Leslie.

Sensory toys and assistive resources at local library

SENSORY FRIENDLY QUIET HOUR NOW AT ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY:

Every Saturday between 4-5pm at Enniscorthy Library is a quiet hour. Library users can visit and relax in the calm, friendly environment of the library.

Also available to help make the sensory experi ence better: Dark Den - children can benefit from the quiet time they spend inside. A sen sory box containing calming toys to use during your visit. Ear defenders for children with sound sensitivities. Ask any staff member for these during your visit.

SENSORY TOYS AND ASSISTIVE RESOURCES (STAR) COLLECTION:

You will need A STAR card to borrow items from the sensory collection, get one for free from any mobile or library branch in Wexford. All you need is photo ID and proof of address.

The Sensory Toys and Assistive Resources (STAR) collection holds over 100 items and was devel oped to support children and young people with additional needs. Items such as toys, special aids and literacy apps can be borrowed from all libraries in Co. Wexford. Items have been chosen to aid skills such as fine motor skills or sensory processing development.

This collection was carefully developed in col laboration with therapists and can be accessed free of charge in all library branches through out Wexford county. T&Cs apply.

C-PEN READER PEN:

Reader Pens can be borrowed, by any library user, for a three-week loan period.

Reader Pens read words and full lines of text aloud to help with independent reading. People with dyslexia, difficulty with reading or pronunciation, for people learning languages or people with vision problems all will find the pens helpful. The pen reads text aloud with a natural speaking voice, they have built-in dic tionaries, giving the option to access defini tions of the words as they read them.

For more information on any of the above, phone Enniscorthy Library 053 9236055 or email: enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie n

Enniscorthy Library Opening Hours Monday 10.30am - 5.30pm (closed 1pm to 2pm)

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

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

& Monday of bank holiday weekends.

Upcoming concerts

Oct 7: Pilgrim Street, Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy. Expect to hear a mix of bluegrass, old time country fused with trad and folk. Tickets: www.wexfordartscentre.ie/events/

Oct 7: Phelim Drew and his house band, plus guests Dublin Gos pel Choir, in St Aidan's Church, Ferns. Tickets from: https://eventlightingsolutions.com/tickets/

Oct 8: Tones of Autumn: A musical evening with Gorey Musical Society, Gorey Little Theatre, Gorey. Tickets €20 from: www.gr8events.ie

Autumnal Jazz with the Sharon Clancy Trio. See details above. n

Enniscorthy Gospel Choir

just

ticket

So what are your plans for the Autumn? Take up cycling, swimming, hiking, sky diving…. are none of these for you? Well, what about joining a choir? If so, Enniscorthy Gospel Choir might be just the ticket.

Gospel Choir rehearses weekly on Wednesdays at

Centre, Millpark Road.

not go along to find out more. No auditions and no ex

If you can hold a note, the choir will be very happy to see you there.

more

reunion

of Coláiste Bríde

Bailey,

8.30pm.

on 22nd

Stacey Breen’s brand new single LOVE BUG is available now to download on iTunes and all music platforms. And don’t forget to request it on all local and online radio stations too.

Rathnure Panto returns

Rathnure Panto: Full details in next month’s Slaney News.

Wexford Fringe is an annual open-access arts festival which will run in parallel to Wexford Opera Festival from Friday, 21st October, to Sunday, 6th November 2022, with over 300 Fringe events, many of which are free to attend, literally engulfing Wexford town over a 17-day period. Keep an eye on www.wexfordfringe.ie for full programme and updates. n

Corner Boy to release new album

One of Wexford’s favourite bands, Corner Boy, will be releas ing their debut self-titled album on 28th October. To celebrate the launch they will be playing the album in full with some special guests at the National Opera House, Wexford, on Sat urday 10th December. Tickets on sale now from: https://www.nationaloperahouse.ie/whats-on/show/corner-boy

ARE YOU DANCING?

Welcome to the October issue of the Slaney News where I'll be filling you in on all the goings on in the music and dance scene here in the Southeast.

We had some great outdoor days this month and we're not fin ished yet! We were at the Carnew Heritage Day where two up and coming young country stars played live the whole afternoon. Namely, Jack Keogh from the Glen Of Imal and Stacey Breen from Ferns. I have Jack playing for my Christmas party on De cember 3rd. Stacey has just released a new single called "Love Bug" and she has a great video to accompany it filmed on the Wexford quayfront.

It's great to see all the field days back. It has to be one of the things I missed the most during the pandemic. We danced at the Annual Blackwater Vintage Day on Saturday 24th and then in Castledermot Steam & Vintage Day on Sunday 25th. Both events had huge turnouts and were blessed with good weather. But there will always be casualties and this month is was Pat The Chaps Vin tage Day in Ballyedmond and the Steam & Sheep Working Day in Rahanna both of which I was to have the dance floor in. I wasn't too put out about the Rahanna one as a load of us were heading up to Garth Brooks that same day and it was going to be very tight fitting the two of them in. We had a fabulous time in Croke

Fossey Mountain Springs

Park as did half the country and I think it was as much about being able to gather in such huge numbers after all the social distancing as seeing Garth himself.

And talking about big numbers, we danced on the Wednesday of the National Ploughing Championships and I believe they had a record attendance that day of 115,000 people. It seemed unusual dancing to Derek Ryan & his Band at 10.30 in the morning! I got to give a dance lesson in the afternoon but the highlight of my day was finally seeing The Tumbling Paddies live. This young six piece band from Co. Fermanagh were way better than I expected and if you ever get the chance to see them you wont be disappointed.

A group of us headed up from Enniscorthy (courtesy of Tom Kelly of TK cabs) to Fossey Mountain Springs Ranch to see The Moon rockers play in Michael & Esther LaCumbre's Saloon Bar. It has got to be one of the best nights I've had in a long time and I can't wait till they hold another event. Hopefully around halloween.

We had another fabulous unexpected night in Rathangan at their Country Fair Weekend. This was a much bigger affair than I imagined and the venue to the rear of the local pub there ac tually blew my mind at the shear size of it and how well it was finished. Joe Davitt and the lads were playing and I have to say they were the best I've ever seen them. I loved their selection of

with Declan Flanagan

songs and they are exceptional musicians. Another place I'll defi nitely be revisiting.

And talking about great nights, this Saturday coming, October 8th, we are heading to The Bailey Enniscorthy to see a much antici pated gig with Alan Power & The Aftershocks. Its their debut night and they are supported by The Bellefords. It's a sellout as far as I believe but check with any member of the Southeast R'n'R club or The Bailey itself to see is there any tickets left.

Des Willoughby is having a music weekend in The Ashdown Park Hotel on Friday 21st & Saturday 22nd of this month. I'll be giving a dance lesson midday on the Saturday if you'd like to join in and there’s a star packed line up including Des with his Celtic Brothers.

Finally, and I know you don't want to be hear about Christmas just yet, but my Christmas party takes place in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Carlow, on Saturday December 3rd. Everyone is welcome. John Molloy and Jack Keogh are playing and give the hotel a buzz if you want to stay as rooms are scarce enough now.

So, that's all my ramblings this month. We have plenty planned in the coming weeks so make sure to drop by the Slaney News next month and find out whats hot and what's not in the music scene around the southeast.

Declan Flanagan

Dancing at the Castledermot Vintage Day

Wallis in Wexford

Wallis Bird is returning to Wexford this November!

Born in Galbally, Enniscorthy, but now resid ing in Germany, Wallis Bird has been enrap turing audiences for over a decade. She has won multiple international awards including two Irish Meteor Awards, and has also re ceived a nomination for the Irish Choice Music Prize. Her irrepressible energy on stage is one of her trademarks; even the Irish Times once noted it could ‘kickstart an entire economy’.

In May this year, Wallis released her seventh studio album Hands, her most personal and experimental to date, which turns the spot light onto herself, raising issues that are sometimes hard to confront. Among these are issues of trust, alcohol abuse, stagna tion, self-censorship and self-improvement. Each song on the album is delivered by a voice uncommonly blessed with joy, inge nuity and empathy.

Wallis is unique in that she strums an up side-down, right-handed guitar. “As a child I fell under a lawnmower and cut all my fingers off,” she says. “Four were recon nected. One was lost. This led me to relearn how to hold things, and, when the time came, to play the guitar differently.” Having spent much of her life trying to exist despite its restrictions, she’s reached a point where she recognises that it’s always been vital to her lived reality. n

Maritime festival frolics

Some

Wexford Quayfront

Wallis Bird at Crown Live, Monck Street, Wexford, November 12th, 8pm, doors open 7.30pm. Tickets €25. Book here: https://lantern.ie/event/wallis-bird-3/

THE EXOR CIST

Movie Review with Kyle Walsh

In the year of 1973, the great film director William Friedkin bought William Peter Blatty’s book The Exorcist to life. What they created was something that was never seen before 1973 and to this very date of 2022 it still has never been equalled or bettered.

The Exorcist is simply the greatest horror movie ever made, not only horror movie, it’s one of the greatest films ever made, full stop. As a 4-year-old kid growing up, I fell in love with movies, I had an urge to watch all types of films and one of my earliest child hood memories is being fascinated with the Hammer horror films such as Dracula, Fran keinstein, all those types of films. Yes, I was very young to watch those films but movies have been my passion since that age.

I remember always hearing stories about this film called The Exorcist and how scary it was, so my curiosity got the better of me and I tried tracking it down through my local video store but I could never rent it as the man would say, Kyle you’re too young to watch it. Then I thought I was lucky at the age of 10 when a friend of mine got his hands on a copy of it. We put it in the video player to watch it, as I thought mam and dad were gone out for a while, ten minutes

into the film mam came home and she im mediately took it out of the machine and told my friend where to go with it.

It was three years later when I first got to see The Exorcist and I couldn’t believe what I had just watched, it left a huge impact on me and it’s a film I’ve watched and studied for years. It is, for me, a powerful film. When you watch this film remember it’s 50 years old next year. That in itself is quite as tonishing.

Everytime I watch this movie I always feel fear, horror, shock, I actually don’t feel safe in the confines of my own home. Everytime. No other movie ever makes me feel this un settled. For days after watching it, I ask my self a lot of personal questions about my faith, my beliefs, about me as a parent, as a man, about the good and the bad in this world, God v Devil, evil v good. It’s a film that makes you think about so much. Rarely does a movie affect us so much as this one did, and I have watched thousands of films at this stage in my life, but this left the big gest impact on me.

The story is a simple one but gets so under your skin it will keep you awake at night. A young girl, 12-year-old Regan, played here by the great Linda Blair, is possessed by evil spirit. Her mam, Ellen Burstyn, brings her daughter to hospital to get tests thinking it could be something wrong neurologically but no it’s not. She then confides in a local

priest, Fr Karras a young Jesuit, tortured soul himself, suffering over the loss of his mother, questioning his own faith. So he gets with the Exorcist Fr Merrin and goes into Regan’s bed room for what I can only describe as the scar iest 25-minute sequence ever filmed. I don’t think I even blink when watching this exor cism unfold. It’s truly horrific.

The practical effects they were able to do back in the day for this film had people run ning out of the cinemas. People were getting sick and fainting in the cinema on its release. People couldn’t believe what they were watching. The acting and directing is in credible. The effects, the story, the music score, the genuine scares throughout. Linda Blair went through hell making this film and she brought us with her. It’s truly a master piece in filmmaking and one that should be looked at and studied in great detail.

This film does not rest on the screen, it’s an all-out attack on us as an audience. You will feel tired and you will feel the exorcism was done on you. It’s horrible, horrific, shocking, scary, it’s an assault on your mind and your faith. It’s a masterpiece, it’s the greatest horror movie ever made. It’s a must watch. It’s a 10/10 for me. Happy Halloween every body! n

Enniscorthy Credit Union is running an art competition: It's A Wonderful World, and is encouraging artists of all ages and abilities in our community to enter this year's competition.

Full information and forms are available here: https://lnkd.in/erGMFCZP n

Wexford Light Opera Society AGM

Following on from the recent AGM of Wexford Light Opera Society, the following Officers and Committee were elected:

Eric Hayes will be serving the second year of his second term as Chairperson.

Colin Murphy Vice-Chairperson; Jamie Collins – Secretary; Valerie Martin – Treasurer; Nicky Kehoe – Public Relations Officer, and Aoife Caulfield, Catherine Walsh, Dermot Wallace, Joanne Flood, Keelin Egan and Mag Gurhy were elected com mittee members.

WLOS is thrilled that President, Mary Fox, has agreed to stay on for another year also. Mary has been a fantastic ambassa dor for the Society.

The AIMS Reps for the coming year are Jamie Collins, Cather ine Walsh and Joanne Flood.

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT!!!

The Beatles at Shea Stadium, Queen Live At Wembley, Garth Brooks doing five nights at Croke Park. Consign these memories to where they belong. The bin of time because the greatest live event of your lives is coming to the Pres entation Centre this November. November the 4th to be precise!

That's right! Wexford's Number One Podcast, The Opinion You Didn’t Ask For is coming to the Presentation Centre stage on the 4th of November at 8pm. Creators and brains behind the podcast Blayne Hosey and Jamie T Murphy are delighted to finally take their fast growing podcast to the live stage.

Veterans of the gigging circuit, Messrs. Hosey and Murphy are heavy in prep aration for the show at the minute, writing sketches, picking music and hoping they dont wear matching outfits on the night. Taken.

They are also proud to announce as special guests on the night, Friday the 4th of November, Enniscorthy’s own Instagram sensation Pow Pow Fizz (Powder Freeman) and his devilishly hand some right hand man Paul "Here Comes The Money" Scott.

Also appearing on the night is re nowned local folklorist Michael For tune who runs the always amazing www.folklore.ie and is a keeper of tradition in the South East and further afield!

The boys are very excited to bring their own brand of comedy to the live stage. Tickets are available by contacting the Presentation Centre directly at https://www.presentationcentre.ie/ or by phoning the centre on 053 92 33000. Tickets are €10 (excl. booking fee) and all proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to Wexford People Helping People.

The Opinion You Didnt Ask For Pod cast Live!

Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, Friday 4th of November at 8pm, Tickets €10 (excl. booking fee).

All ticket proceeds going directly to Wexford People Helping People. n

Enniscorthy’s new acting course

Recently qualified speech and drama teacher, Fintan Kelly, is delighted to announce the first acting course he will be facilitating. It will be limited to six people and is aimed at adults and teens.

This creative acting for theatre course will be run over ten weeks on The Presentation Centre stage. Starting on Novem ber 7th, for 5 weeks, Fintan will be facilitating classes of char acter-creating exercises and will explore the teachings of Stanislavski, Chekhov and Meisner in the process, while using improv to create scenes and situations to develop these brand new characters that each individual will create themselves.

Award-winning writer Paul O’Reilly from Enniscorthy will be in the room during the five weeks and Paul will take these char acters that each individual has created and write a play that contains each of these characters over the Christmas period. The group will then rehearse this play when they return after Christmas on January 9th, which will be directed by Fintan for the last 5 weeks, and then put on at the end of the course.

This course is open to all levels of acting from beginners to seasoned theatre actors. Fintan says, “This course will satisfy creative curiosities and leave you with a character that you have created yourself in an original piece of writing. Call me on 087 6756993 for more details.” n

Left: Fintan Kelly.

Below: Paul O’Reilly.

Wexford Arts Centre...

Wexford Arts Centre | Thur 13th – Sun 16th Oct | Women on the Verge of HRT | 8pm

Wexford Drama Group returns to the Wexford Arts Centre stage with their latest production Women on the Verge of HRT written by Marie Jones and directed by Linda Hynes. Cast: Anna - Jeanette Sidney Kelly, Vera - Jennifer Byrne and Fergal - Michael McKenny.

Wexford Arts Centre | Thursday 13th Oct | Larry Kirwan plays the Crown Live | 8:30pm

Wexford native Larry Kirwan will travel from NYC to perform at The Crown Live as part of his annual Irish Tour.

Wexford Arts Centre | Sun 16th Oct – Sat 26th Nov | Right of Way – a solo exhibition by Laura Fitzgerald Wexford Arts Centre and Wexford County Council Arts De partment in partnership with South East Technological Uni versity are pleased to present RIGHT-OF-WAY by EMERGENCE Visual Art Award recipient Laura Fitzgerald.

Wexford Arts Centre | Thursday 20th Oct | On Writing Li brettos … | 7pm

In this special event Colm Tóibín will be in conversation with Alberto Caruso as they discuss their collaboration and the process of writing the libretto ahead of the premiere of The Master at the Wexford Festival Opera 2022.

Wexford Co Council | Thur 20th Oct – Fri 2nd Dec | Wide Open Space | 9am - 5pm

Wide Open Space is an exhibition of more than 50 works by leading Irish artists from Co. Wexford.

Council Art Collection, exploring the enduring influence of the environment around us, including Barrie Cooke, Eliza beth Cope, Eithne Jordan, Cecil King, Alice Maher, Alannah O’Kelly, Sean McSweeney, Blaise Smith and Mary Swanzy. Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93.

Wexford Arts Centre | Thur 27th - Sat 5th Nov | Lights Out | 8:00pm

Four Rivers in association with Wexford Arts Centre and Wexford Festival Opera present the world premiere of Wex ford writer Hannah Mc Niven's searing new play Lights Out directed by Ben Barnes.

Wexford Co Council | Monday 31st Oct | Valda Chamber

Choir lunchtime recital | 1pm

Valda Chamber Choir Lunchtime Recital with guest artist, David Creevy on Classical Guitar, at Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93. n

Celebrating traditional art & craft

Halted is an exhibition of traditional art and craft by Andy Connors running in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, until 15th October 2022.

Wexford filmmakers Robert Tyrrell and Joanne Heffernan, in conjunction with Screen Wexford, FDYS, Wexford Arts Of fice, and The Presentation Arts Centre, are behind this showcase of Traveller arts, crafts and film.

The exhibition coincided with the recent screening in Ennis corthy of the short documentary film Halted fresh from its premiere at the Galway Film Fleadh. The film is about the everyday lives of the Travelling community in Enniscorthy. It was shot last year after the filmmaking duo received funding through Wexford County Council’s New Voices bursary. It was accompanied in Enniscorthy by an hour-long pro gramme of short films about traveller culture.

Working with the local FDYS Traveller inclusion programme in Enniscorthy and local craftsman Andy Connors, the ex hibition of artwork, also called Halted, runs daily at The Presentation Arts Centre until 15th October. All are wel come, the gallery is always free to visit! n

Laureate for Irish Fiction, Colm Tóibín, has written a libretto for an opera of his novel The Master with composer Alberto Caruso

In this special event at Wexford Arts Centre on 20th October, Colm Tóibín will be in conversation with Alberto Caruso as they discuss their collaboration and process of writing the libretto ahead of the premiere of The Master at the Wexford Festival Opera 2022. The evening will feature Colm Tóibín reading from his novel The Master and some ex cerpts from the opera will be performed on piano by Alberto Caruso.

Colm Tóibín was born in Enniscorthy in 1955. He is the author of ten novels including The Master (2004), winner of the Dublin IMPAC Prize and the LA Times Novel of the Year; Brooklyn (2009), winner of the Costa Novel of the Year; and Nora Webster (2014), winner of the Haw thornden Prize. His two collections of stories are Mothers and Sons (2006), winner of the Edge Hill Prize, and The Empty Family (2010), shortlisted for the Frank O'Connor Award. His plays include The Testa ment of Mary (2011), nominated for a Tony Award for Best Play. In 1993, he was elected to Aosdána and in 2020 became a vice-president of the Royal Society of Literature. He is a member of both the Ameri can Academy of Arts and Letters and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. His work has been translated into more than thirty lan guages. He is a contributing editor at the London Review of Books. In 1995, he received the E.M. Forster Prize from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. In 2017 he won the Kenyon Review Award for Lit erary Achievement and the Richard C. Holbrooke Distinguished Award from the Dayton Literary Peace Prize. In 2021 was awarded the David Cohen Prize. He has taught at Stanford University, the University of Texas at Austin, Princeton University, the University of Manchester and Columbia University. He is Chancellor of the University of Liverpool. n

Wide Open Space: Landscapes from the Wexford County Council and Mairead Furlong collections

Wide Open Space: Landscapes from the Wexford County Council and Mairead Furlong collections. Curated by Eamonn Maxwell. Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. 20th October – 2nd December 2022.

Open Monday – Friday, 9am 5pm.

Wide Open Space is an exhibition of more than 50 works by leading Irish artists from the Wexford County Council Art Col lection, exploring the enduring influence of the environment around us, including Barrie Cooke, Elizabeth Cope, Eithne Jordan, Cecil King, Alice Maher, Alannah O'Kelly, Sean McSweeney, Blaise Smith and Mary Swanzy.

The exhibition also features a selection of artworks recently gifted to Wexford County Council collection by the Estate of Mairead Furlong. Mairead Furlong was the driving force be hind the establishment of the Wexford County Council Art Collection and set up an arts committee back in 1994. For over 20 years Mairead worked with this committee titled ‘The Friends of Wexford County Art Collection’ and through her passion and determination and support the County Collection grew from strength to strength. The County Art Collection now comprises over 400 art works, many of which are by Wexford based artists, as well as work acquired through long term loans with key institutions such as the Arts Council, IMMA, the AIB Collection, Wexford Arts Centre, and through private donations.

Many of the works in this exhibition were acquired by Wex ford County Council during the period when Mairead was an active member of the art committee. Her ambition that the Collection should focus on excellence continues to this day, with works by local and national artists being added to the Collection each year. This exhibition will see many of the pieces go on public display for the first time, as well as reveal ing more recent acquisitions, including a large sculpture by

Orla Barry, an artist and shepherd based in Co. Wexford. In addition, it will showcase works by other Wexford based art ists including Hanneke Van Ryswyk, Mary O’Connor, Orla Bates, Maire Holohan and Kate Murphy.

The education/outreach element of the Wexford County Art Collection continues to grow, with art works currently sited in Wexford General Hospital, Wexford Libraries, the five munici pal district offices, Wexford schools and throughout County Hall. Free public tours of the County Art Collection are also offered regularly by the Arts Office and are delivered by a panel of local artists.

Mairead Furlong had an interest in art from an early age and worked as a photographer in her early twenties but life in itially took her down the road of farm and retail management. In the 1960s she got involved in the establishment of Wexford Festival Opera and opened an antiques shop in her family home, Drinagh Lodge. Due to her growing sphere of in fluence, she was appointed by the Taoiseach, in 1983, to serve as a member of the board of the Arts Council / An Chomhairle Ealaíon. By 1994 she had convinced the then Wexford County Manager to set up an art committee and establish the Wex ford County Art Collection.

Eamonn Maxwell is an independent curator who has worked in the visual arts for over 20 years. He has curated numerous exhibitions across the world including the Irish Pavilion at the Venice Biennale in 2011 and was Director of Lismore Castle Arts from 2009-2016.

The exhibition is presented by Wexford County Council in partnership with Wexford Arts Centre, and funded by the Arts Council of Ireland. For further information please contact arts@wexfordcoco.ie or telephone 053 9196369. n

Left: Sean McSweeney, Bogland Water, 1989, Oil On Board, 35x25cm. Centre: Alanna O'Kelly & Re�ilti� n Murphy, Untitled (An Leabhar Mo�r), 2002, Digital Print, 104x62cm. Right: Eithne Jordan, Houses With Fences III, 2005, Acrylic On Canvas, 190 x 240cm.

Eugene O’Neill Festival, New Ross

The Eugene O’Neill International Festival of Theatre October 13th - 16th

Four nights of great entertainment with three O’Neill plays (1 from the U.S., 1 from Ireland, and 1 with a cast from both countries), plus an evening of IrishAmerican music with Green Road and Clodagh Kinsella, and Anne Gildea’s one woman show “Menopause”.

“The one thing that explains more than anything about me is the fact that I’m Irish” EUGENE O’NEILL.

Forsey to the fore

Author Sheila Forsey's remaining cre ative writing classes at The Presentation Arts Centre run right up to mid-December.

Monthly Creative Writing Workshops with Author Sheila Forsey. Sessions can be booked individually, €25 each. Each session will approach a different aspect of the creative writing process.

October 14: Nature Writing

It's all around us, but how can we best use it in our writing? From weather to scenery, the workshop covers the best methods for including nature in our stories.

November 11: Character Development

Explore the different aspects that create well rounded, believable characters. Make your villains, heroes, sidekicks, and mysterious background characters unfor gettable.

December 16: Becoming A Better Writer

How to continuously develop your craft, avoid those lulls and brick walls, and keep that passion ignited.

Each class runs on a Friday morning from 10.15am – 12.30pm.

Places are limited, book in advance to avoid disappointment. 053 9233000. www.presentationcentre.ie n

Enniscorthy Library... Wexford Festival

On the third Thursday of every month the Adult Book Club meets in Ennis corthy Library at 7pm.

New members welcome. If you are inter ested in going along please contact En niscorthy library on 053 9236055. n

On the last Thursday of every month the Slaney Writers Group meets in Ennis corthy Library at 7pm.

New members welcome. If you are inter ested in going along please contact En niscorthy library on 053 9236055. n

‘The Cliffhangers’ Junior Book Club is back in the Enniscorthy branch for its monthly meetings usually the last Thursday of the month. It’s a great way to try new authors and genres and there is no pressure to read aloud.

New members are always welcome. If you would like your child to join, please contact 053 9236055 for more informa tion. Suitable for ages 8–12. n

Wexford Festival Opera wins 2022 Business to Arts Award Enniscorthy’s Datapac proud to play role in this success

Datapac, Ireland’s leading ICT services & solutions provider, is delighted to announce that Wexford Festival Opera has been recognised in the 2022 Busi ness to Arts Awards, winning the Judge’s Special Recognition Award.

As one of several organisations which supports the Festival, including Danone, Ecclesiastical, Arachas Corporate Brokers Ltd and PwC, Datapac is proud to have contributed its technology and services as the Festival’s longstanding of ficial IT Partner.

Datapac has been a long-term valued supporter of Wexford Festival Opera and the National Opera House for over a decade. This strong relationship has wit nessed many milestones for the cultural icon of the South-East, including essen tial support provided during the building of the current National Opera House, which opened its doors in 2008. Ongoing support from Datapac has en sured that the world-class venue, home

of the internationally acclaimed Wexford Festival Opera, always has a best-ofbreed IT ecosystem fit to live up to the Festival’s legacy.

In 2021, Datapac extended its support to the Festival through partnering with their new outreach programme Syn apses. The programme used the power of technology to rebuild connections be tween the Festival and communities of nursing home residents throughout Wex ford. Many of the residents have been lifelong supporters of the Festival yet have been unable to experience its wonders in recent years because of the pandemic. With Datapac’s support – fi nancially, technologically and in-kindthe Festival was able to produce a high lights documentary of the 2021 festival, which was screened in nursing homes throughout the summer, helping to bring a little bit of opera magic to some of Wexford’s valued communities.

Dan Kickham, Chairman, Datapac, said:

“As longstanding official IT Partner, Data pac is delighted to see the Festival’s out standing achievements recognised in this year’s Business to Arts Awards. The Festi val continues to be a cultural mainstay of Wexford, and indeed, of the South East, and the value brought to the artistic heri tage of the region is immeasurable. Sup porting and enriching the wider community has always been a core guid ing ethos of the Festival, as witnessed this year in the wonderful Synapses outreach programme which Datapac supported.”

Randall Shannon, Executive Director, Wex ford Festival Opera, said: “We’re de lighted to have won the Judge’s Special Recognition Award at this year’s Business to Arts Awards. Thanks to the support of our sponsors, we can continue to bring world-class experiences to Wexford year after year. This past year, with the valued support of Datapac, we were able to bring the opera to our community in new ways, making meaningful connections with all of our audiences.”

Datapac Chairman Dan Kickham and Wexford Festival Opera Executive Director Randall Shannon.

Green light for Wexford film studio

Cllr George Lawlor, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, was de lighted last month to announce the green light by An Bord Pleanála for the Tara Film Studios development for north Wexford.

He stated that the film studios were a major uplift to the economy of Wexford and Ireland’s eastern corridor, demon strating the strategic strengths of Wex ford’s motorway connectivity to Dublin, creating a major film hub for the indus try. “This is one of the most exciting de velopments to create real jobs for the people of Wexford and I am delighted as the Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council to applaud Tara Film Studios for their vision and commitment to Wexford with this significant investment project.” He added further that earlier this year he had held very productive meetings with the Savannah Film Commission about developing further potential economic partnerships with Wexford and that Tara Studios would cement this opportunity, particularly in nurturing skills and talent for the film industry across a range of sectors.

Tom Enright, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, highlighted how the an nouncement was a significant boost to the local economy and a real gamech anger for the county. He outlined that the planning permission was granted by Wexford County Council in January of last year and then went to An Bord Pleanála who approved the planning permission for the major strategic pro ject. “The investment by Tara Studios will see the construction of seven studio

stages, ten workshops and two office buildings, demonstrating the scale of the investment for North Wexford. I am de lighted to see the economic benefits of this project which, with a major film pro duction, could create 630 jobs in Wex ford, which is the equivalent of 3 major IDA announcements. This does not cap ture the employment gains in the con struction phase with 120 jobs expected followed by indirect employment oppor tunities in terms of maintenance contracts, equipment supply, set design and landscaping.” He stated this was one of the “best days for the county and Wexford County Council positioned the film industry as one of our job creation pillars in recognition of the vibrant cul tural assets in the county and growth in the global film and television sector. We established Screen Wexford to ensure the right skills and training to support the industry and create as much local employment as possible. This really posi tions Wexford’s reputation as an invest ment location and an ideal place to do business.”

Cllr Donal Kenny, Chair of the Gorey Kil muckridge Municipal District, was de lighted to welcome the news of the Tara Film Studios at Borleagh Manor which itself is very fitting given its historical as sociation with Hollywood actors in the past. “I am delighted to see this invest ment which will have a positive impact for local businesses and communities. Wexford has a strong reputation for people with skills in the construction sec tor and during the building phase and when the film studios are up and running

will bring jobs to the Gorey area in terms of tourism, food and supply side oppor tunities. We have great people in North Wexford and organisations such as the Gorey School of Art who will be de lighted to support opportunities for people to get into the film sector and develop their careers. This announce ment will really put north Wexford on the map given the calibre of the highly experienced people behind the project. I am delighted on behalf of the elected members and the people of Gorey Kil muckridge Municipal District to welcome the news of this investment and I want to congratulate all involved.”

Al Butler is the film co-ordinator with Screen Wexford which is an initiative of the Arts and Economic sections of Wex ford County Council. He stated that Screen Wexford are incredibly excited about the news of planning being granted for Tara Studios in north Wex ford. This announcement is a real cata lyst for the film industry in County Wexford. “We have a huge amount of creative talent and stunning film loca tions, but the addition of Tara Studios takes the local film industry to another level. Tara Studios will provide in credible cultural and employment op portunities for County Wexford and Screen Wexford are looking forward to being able to support national and in ternational productions and to working on the development of new and experi enced Wexford-based talent in the screen sector.” n

The new Tara Film Studios will be in Borleagh Manor, Inch, Gorey.

Béal na Bláth –An alternative perspective

Paddy Cullivan, historical entertainer, captivated the Presentation Centre audience recently with his intriguing version of The Murder of Michael Collins.

Paddy puts a tremendous amount of re search, humour, imagery, song, and passion into his narratives from the past and gives a new and unique insight into Irish history.

Believe it or not, Paddy, with humour and wit poses pertinent and significant ques tions into historical events and sends the audience home with much to ponder and query.

His mind boggling, alternative version of the murder of Michael Collins explores a great many anomalies and contradictions in the story we have all been fed for over a hundred years, and without being a spoiler for the show, much of his focus is on the fact that at Béal na Bláth, six Anti-Treaty snipers engaged twenty-five Free State trained troops, an armoured car, and two machine guns and only one man was killed or seri ously wounded. In fact, 30 men walked away from the scene of the ambush, that day, with hardly a scratch, and believe it or not, not a single bullet from the ambush has ever been found or examined.

Paddy advocates strongly for the exhum ation of Michael Collins, in the hope of shedding some new light on his death one hundred years on.

Paddy’s show is extremely well researched, expertly executed (if you’ll pardon the pun), humorously delivered, endlessly entertain ing, and thought provoking for those on all sides of the divide, and those on none, and will send the punter away with a lot to think about and a great many more questions that need to be answered.

Well done to The Presentation Centre for bringing this most enjoyable and in formative event to our doorsteps.

Words & Pics by Maria Nolan

Paddy Cullivan with Maria Nolan.

Paddy Cullivan with members of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society

A WELCOME ADDITION TO ENNISCORTHY'S FOOD SCENE

Best wishes to Mister Chen and his family who opened their new Asian street food restaurant in Enniscorthy on 3rd October 2022.

Lime is situated in the old River Restaurant premises right in the centre of town, and is offering sit-down Lunch (up to 4pm) and Evening (up to closing time at 10pm) menus, as well as a substantial takeaway menu. The takeaway menu also serves as the lunch sit-down menu, so it no more ex pensive to sit down for lunch versus takeaway.

For the added comfort of diners, the extensive size of the premises has allowed Mister Chen to completely separate the sit-down and takeaway areas.

The Slaney News looks forward to sampling some delicious Asian street food there very soon.

Opening Hours: 12 noon to 10pm, 7 days a week. Delivery Hours: 5pm to 9.50pm, 7 days a week. €3 local delivery charge.

Tel: 053 923 6448, 089 216 8823. Keep up to date on Facebook at ‘Lime asian street food’ n

Mister Chen in the extensive seating area in Lime.

Mister Chen with staff and family at the takeaway counter in Lime.

Scooping the top award

Last month, Frozen Natural Yogurt from Scúp Gelato, Kerlogue, Wex ford, was awarded the top accolade for taste in Ireland for 2022, at the Golden Fork ceremony, in London.

The Scúp Gelato Natural Yogurt with its “pretty pale lemon colour and entic ing crumbled edge” is made using only the highest quality raw material sourced locally and internationally. The company’s Natural Yogurt was de scribed as “fresh and light, with a lactic tang and citrus notes”.

Great Taste is regarded the largest and most trusted food and drink accredi tation scheme on the planet – the ‘Os cars’ of the food and drink world, so to be chosen as Ireland’s best tasting product out of hundreds of entries was an incredible achievement.

For more information on Scúp Gelato, visit www.scupgelato.com n

Below: Scúp Gelato team at the Great Taste Awards.

Tin Roof now open on Enniscorthy’s eastside

The Tin Roof is now open in Enniscorthy at Mr Price on the Blackwater road out of town.

A great range of coffees, sausage rolls, pastries and snacks are now being served.

Both the Enniscorthy and Wexford outlets open: Mon-Fri 7am-3pm, Sat 7.30am-3.30pm, Sun 8.30pm-3.30pm.

The Tin Roof now open in Enniscorthy at Mr Price.

Growing your own herbs and and veg – how to get started

Join Carla King on Thursday, 6th Oc tober, 7.30pm - 8.30pm, in Gorey Library for a special talk on growing your own herbs and vegetables, providing deli cious food at minimal cost and having fun at the same time. This talk is aimed at encouraging the complete beginner who would like to get started growing but doesn’t know where to begin. Book ing essential, phone the library on 053 9483820. n

Enniscorthy Community Allotments

Local people growing their own food in an organic and sustainable way at the new allotments situated at Gort Na Gréine, Enniscorthy, beside the Enniscorthy Sports Hub.

There is a waiting list in operation so get your name on it here: https://www.enniscorthycommunityallotments.ie/contact-us.php

To find out more: Email: enniscorthyallotments@gmail.com http://www.enniscorthycommunityallotments.ie/ https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthycommunityallotments n

Afternoon tea by the sea Wexford wins big at Blas awards

Time to indulge yourself with Afternoon Tea by the sea at Coast Rosslare Strand. The spectacular location makes for a truly unique experience.

Celebrating something special? Why not treat yourself to a glass of prosecco or a dressed gin and tonic which can be added to your Afternoon Tea on request.

Afternoon Tea is served daily between 11am and 6pm. €20 per person or €25 including Prosecco.

Contact the hotel today at banquetingmanager@coastross larestrand.com or call 053 9132010

Gift vouchers also available. n

Saltees Coast Hotel

fine food and wonderful weddings

Saltees Coast Hotel is situated in the heart of historic Kilmore Quay within walking distance of beaches, walking trails, and the harbour.

This family-friendly hotel with its welcoming staff is now under new, local management, and is serving food seven days a week, 8am to 8pm, with great value steak nights on Mondays and Thursdays, and curry nights on Tuesdays.

It is also in the wedding business catering for weddings of all kinds.

Contact: 053 9148641

more

A whopping 19 Co. Wexford food producers made it to the finals of the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards held over recent days in Dingle and an amazing host of awards came back to the county.

Most notably, Stafford's Bakeries claimed an amazing nine awards, Wexford Home Preserves scooped three awards, and Scúp Gelato had an impressive two golds and a silver, and won best product in Co. Wexford. Congrats to all.

Full report in next month’s issue of the Slaney News. n

Tried-Tested-Tasted by Caitriona

Caitriona Barron from Drinagh, Wexford, grew up on her dad’s farm with plenti ful 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

SPANISH STYLE POACHED FISH

25 mins, easy quick delicious meal. Ingredients for 4 persons.

4 tbsps of Don Carlos extra virgin olive

3 cloves fresh garlic sliced

1 tin cherry tomatoes

1/2 cup chicken stock

1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste

1 large chilli sliced

1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper, or to taste

1/2 cup fresh parsley or basil leaves, finely chopped

2 tbsps fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 tsp fresh lemon zest

1/2 jar of Don Carlos black olives

For the fish:

2 tbsps olive oil

4 portions of cod or hake sea salt and pepper

Instructions:

Season your cod fillets with a pinch of sea salt and pepper.

In a large pan with a lid, heat mediumhigh 4 tablespoons of oil.

Add garlic and chilli, sauté until fragrant, about 2 mins.

Add tomatoes and stock, add more stock increase to a cup if you like a less thicker sauce.

Season with sea salt and pepper to your taste.

Reduce heat to low, cover and let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Next add in the basil, fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, cook for 2 minutes more.

Return your fish into the pan, drizzle a little oil over fish and cover cook for 15 mins.

Add olives for 2 mins.

Serve immediately with more fresh basil or parsley lemon and enjoy! n

Caitriona Barron

Delicious

style poached

The first Good Food Ireland Tour arrives in Wexford

Local Wexford company Good Food Ireland, the unique trustmark for local food and drink experiences of the is land of Ireland, has expanded and is now bringing international visitors to Ireland on certified farm-to-fork food cultural tours. The first official tour ar rived in recent days in Wexford and visited Johnstown Castle Estate, Mu seum & Gardens. Carmel Whitty, Visitor Services Manager, was on hand to welcome Margaret Jeffares, the Managing Director and Founder of Good Food Ireland and her group of US visitors.

This 9-Day Culinary and Cultural Experi ence takes visitors on a tour of the Irish coast, viewing dramatic sceneries, meet ing with local people and most impor tantly allowing them to get to know

Ireland through the lens of food and drink.

Leveraging a proven track record in pion eering the development of Irish food tourism for almost 20 years, Good Food Ireland uses its depth of knowledge and unparalleled access to food and drink providers to curate its tours from some 300 businesses certified within the Good Food Ireland Collection.

“Good Food Ireland is like a friend in Ire land connecting visitors with a family of like-minded people who all share its passion for good local food and oldfashioned Irish hospitality,” says Mar garet Jeffares.

She goes on to say, “I am delighted to bring our first Good Food Ireland Tour to Wexford. Johnstown Castle is a truly

authentic castle and none of our visitors have been here before. It is great for Wexford to have such an incredible asset and I have no doubt that in time to come it will be the go-to destination.

“Farming and fishing have shaped Ire land’s way of life. The land gives its milk, cheese and meat a unique taste and fla vour. For thousands of years the natural, clean water around the island's 7,500km coastline has provided exceptionally good seafood. Good Food Ireland knows where to find the best, while at the same time sustainably supporting local communities. It reflects Ireland’s landscape and seascape as well as the cultural traditions in a way that enlivens a holiday experience.“

For more information visit www.good foodireland.ie n

The first official Good Food Ireland tour visiting Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens on 1st October 2022. Pic: Patrick Browne.

Caim Vintage Club Tractor Run

Above left: Ready for the Caim Vintage Club Tractor Run, Eva and Chloe Leacy in a vintage Model T Ford.

right: Doyle Family watching the run, Sam, Derek, Jamie, Dylan and Cathriona.

Above left: Caim Vintage Club Tractor Run working on his tractor was Leonard Fitzgerald. Above centre: Old campaigner Paddy K

Above right: Inside the cab of his tractor was Jimmy Harmon.

Kenny at the Caim Run.

Above: Syl Boland and Leo Tector at his Ford Car.

Above right: Rarin’ to go little Rohan Newman who is mad about tractors.

Right: Jim Mooney and his tractor at the Caim Run.

Bottom right: Michael Doran and Tom Gorman relaxing at the Caim Tractor Run on 2nd October 2022.

‘Dusty Boy’ now open in Enniscorthy

Dusty Boy is a successful online business founded and operated by husband and wife duo Justin Campbell and Kate Rose Crean. Kate from Davidstown, and Jus tin who is originally from South Africa, have decided to set up a store in Enniscorthy, next door to Enniscorthy Credit Union, in the old Taste Factory premises.

The business specialises in wall art, gifts, natural living products and its own clothing range – each piece is 100% organic cotton and vegan approved. And all pack aging is completely recyclable, and plastic free. The Enniscorthy store also caters for takeaway coffees. Check out: https://dustyboy.com n

Cabinet approval for Rosslare works

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has confirmed that the government has given the go-ahead for Rosslare Europort upgrade works to go to tender stage.

Works on enhancing the port’s infrastructure are due to get underway before the end of the year. It’s expected that the works will be completed by the end of 2023 at an estimated cost of between €120 and €150 million.

Confirming the cabinet’s decision, Minister Browne explained how these upgrade works “will help make Rosslare Europort one of the most modern ports in Europe” and enhance its role as an economic driver for Wexford and the south east.

“The funding for these works has been secured under the Bre xit Adjustment Reserve Fund. My government colleagues and I prioritised the need for Rosslare Europort under the scheme; no other port serving the continent received grant funding through this scheme. This is another positive step underlining the government’s commitment to enhancing the infrastructure at Rosslare Europort.

“I believe that we in Wexford and the South East are beginning to draw on the potential economic benefits of drawing closer ties with France... I am committed to strengthening these ties,” Minister Browne concluded. n

Justin and Kate Campbell

Feasibility Study Grants

Feasibility Study Grants are designed to assist the promoter with research ing market demand for a product or service and examining its sustainability. It includes assistance with innovation including specific consultancy require ments, hiring of expertise from third level colleges, private specialists, de sign and prototype development.

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

Expenditure may be considered under the following headings: Market Research - Consultancy Costs - Technical Development/Prototype/ Innovation - Salary/Own Labour Research - Miscellaneous Costs

Please contact Wexford LEO for an application form for the Feasibility Study Grant. Phone: 053 919 6020. Email:

n

Business supports

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

- Located and operating within the LEO geographic area.

- A business, which, on growth, will have the capacity to progress to the Enterprise Ireland portfolio

- A business employing up to 10 employees

- A manufacturing or internationally traded service business

- A domestically traded service business with the potential to trade internationally.

For more information and how to apply click here: https://www.localen terprise.ie/Wexford/Financial-Supports/Business-Expansion-Grant/

The Agile Innovation Fund is now available for small businesses:

Introduced by Enterprise Ireland, the Agile fund will help clients of LEO Wexford respond more quickly to market opportunities and challenges like Brexit. Offering fast-track approval and a streamlined online appli cation process, the new Agile Innovation Fund will allow companies to access up to 45% or 50% in support for product, process or service de velopment projects with a total cost of up to €300,000.

information

Green for Micro

Sign up for The Local Enterprise Office Green For Micro programme – help

your business prepare

carbon, more resource efficient econ omy of the

This FREE initiative is available to companies with up to ten employees, and provides the mentorship and technical support your business needs to go green, covering such as resource efficiency, understanding your carbon footprint, reducing costs and implementing an environmental management system.

National Women’s Enterpri

This year’s National Women’s Enter prise Day (NWED 2022), an initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices, is now in its 16th year, and will take place on the 13th October 2022 with the aim of encouraging female entrepreneurship and supporting women in business across the country.

Laura Sinnott of Wexford Home Pre serves, Joanne Hession, Founder and CEO LIFT Ireland, and Michelle O’Neill, international soccer referee are some of

the names lined up for this year’s event in Wexford.

Research has shown that Irish women’s belief in their ability to run a successful

business is continuing to grow.

The research, part of the Global Entre preneurship Monitor (GEM) for 2021, showed that 49% of women surveyed be lieved they had the necessary skills and knowledge to start a business. This was up from 39% in 2018. The report also highlighted that Ireland has the third highest rate for early-stage women entre preneurs across European countries, with over 1,400 women starting a new busi ness in Ireland every month.

Laura Sinnott (Wexford Home Preserves), Tara Lane (Centrepiece Rosettes), Breege Cosgrave (Acting Head of Enterprise and Economic Development, Local Enterprise Office, Wexford County Council), Sarah Flood (Snap Mayo), Frances O’Reilly (DogDry).

Research has shown that Irish women’s belief in their ability to run a successful business is continuing to grow.

ise Day 2022

Early-stage women entrepreneurs in Ireland are mainly focused on the customer services sector with 64% of those surveyed working in that area. The report showed a significant growth in export customers for these businesses, with 26% of customers of these early-stage startups based abroad, up from 15% in 2019, highlighting how they have diversified their markets dur ing Covid.

The theme of this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Day is “Our Future, Our Way” which will be reflected in the 16 events taking place across the country, supported by Enterprise Ire land and the Local Authorities.

The Wexford event, run by Local Enterprise Office Wexford, National Women’s Enterprise Day takes place on Thursday, 13th October, in the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey from 9.30am to 2.00pm. Featuring some of Ireland’s and Wexford’s top fe male leaders and entrepreneurs, this is an ideal opportunity to build your business network. The interesting and diverse panel lists include Leading Light: Laura Sinnott, Wexford Home Pre serves, MC Joanne Hession, Founder & CEO LIFT Ireland. Chupi Sweetman, award-winning jewellery designer, Michelle O'Neill, international assistant soccer referee and Trudie Power, founder of Trudies Kitchen and Chairperson of Wexford Food Family. Tickets are priced at €25 including lunch.

There will be events nationwide featuring a mix of well-known Irish entrepreneurs and business people such as Suzanne Jack son, founder of the SoSu Cosmetics and Dripping Gold Luxury Tan, successful jockey Nina Carberry, international referee Mi chelle O’Neill, award-winning jewellery designer Chupi Sweet man, interior design specialist and Home of the Year judge Suzie McAdam, and broadcaster and entrepreneur Aine Kerr. Breege Cosgrave, Chair of NWED 2022, and Acting Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at Wexford County Council said; “At NWED 2022 you will get a chance to hear from female business owners who will be telling their business stories and learn about all the great supports that are out there for businesses and entrepreneurs at all stages of development

and growth from your Local Enterprise Office and other agencies. We hope you enjoy this year’s line-up of events offer ing outstanding examples of inspirational female leaders, entrepreneurs and “leading lights” across Ireland who will share their collective experiences. Don’t miss out on this event, get registered now! National Women's Enterprise Day 13/10/2022.”

Carol Gibbons, Divisional Manager, Regions and Local Enter prise with Enterprise Ireland said; “Entrepreneurship among women is growing. A recent Global Enterprise Monitor report has found that nearly half of all women surveyed for the report have said that they have the skills and knowledge to start a business. Events like National Women’s Enterprise Day are im portant in supporting this positivity and confidence, providing women entrepreneurs and those considering starting a busi ness with insights from leading business women and introduc ing them to a network of entrepreneurs who are blazing a trail in the Irish market and overseas.

“Enterprise Ireland is delighted to support National Women’s Enterprise Day, particularly this year, as we are seeing the re turn of in-person events and face-to-face activities.” National Women’s Enterprise Day 2022 takes place in 16 ve nues across the country on Thursday 13th October. The events will cover a range of topics and are open to all aspiring female entrepreneurs, existing female business owners and anyone who wants to learn more about entrepreneurship.

For more information on the events in each area and how to register go to www.LocalEnterprise.ie/NWED n

Picture

Irish SMEs looking to digitalisation to future proof business and operate more cost effectively

n A Google-commissioned survey of Irish businesses shows 61% of SMEs say that digital skills are essential in future proofing their business

n Rising cost of doing business is also a key concern for the next 12 months for 61% of Irish SMEs

n Call for final applications as ten SMEs that demonstrate a commitment to digital set to be awarded with a suite of custom ised supports from Google

Irish SMEs are investing in digitalisation to help future proof their businesses and operate more cost effectively at a time when they are concerned about the economy and rising costs of doing business according to a new survey commissioned by Google Ireland and conducted by Amárach.

The survey found almost three quarters (72%) of SMEs surveyed said that surviving the cur rent period of economic uncertainty is a key priority over the next 12 months, while 71% are prioritising revenue and profit growth. In addition, the rising costs of doing business is a key concern for 63% of SMEs in the year ahead.

Despite this economic uncertainty and concern around rising costs, businesses recognised the impact that investing in digitalisation can have on managing costs and supporting growth. Al most half (48%) of SMEs stated that digital skills and tools allow them to operate more cost effec tively while 60% use them to connect with customers and 46% say it opens up new markets for their business. Further demonstrating the value of digital, 61% of those surveyed stated that digital skills are essential to future proofing their business.

You’re the Business is a digital platform offering Irish SMEs access to free live and on-demand train ing sessions, geared toward supporting companies at all stages of their digitalisation journey. In addi tion, ten participants that demonstrate a commitment to digital will be awarded with a suite of customised supports, including mentorship and ad funding. In order to be considered as one of the ten firms to receive a package of tailored supports, SMEs can submit a video [via the You’re the Business site] detailing what their business means to them, as well as an example of how they have used digital to en hance their business.

The survey also found that 66% of Irish SMEs believe that Ireland is a good place to own and operate a small business with 51% of those citing access to government supports like training and funding as a reason for that.

For further information on the various training modules as well as the opportunity to be awarded a customised support package, please visit: g.co/yourethebusiness n

Pictured at the You’re the Business event in Google’s EMEA HQ, Dublin are: Angela Lawless of the Local Enterprise Office in Wexford with Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Clare.

Closer ties between Wexford & France

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne TD has confirmed that a recent Government trade mission to Brittany in France will help strengthen County Wexford’s economic and cultural ties with France.

Last month, Minister Browne officially in augurated the Honorary Consulate of Ire land in Brittany. The Honorary Consulate will be situated in the Port of Roscoff, a key point for County Wexford and Irish trade with France and continental Eu rope. Mr Jean-Marc Roué, a leading business person and President of Brittany Ferries, will be Ireland’s Honorary Consul in Brittany.

Commenting on the trade mission, Min ister Browne expressed his delight on travelling to the Brittany region. “As part of the trade mission, I paid visits to Brest and Roscoff highlighting the Govern ment’s commitment to deepening trade, cultural and political relations and raising the profile of County Wexford and Ire land in the region.

“As Ireland’s closest neighbour in the European Union, France and the Region of Brittany are key political and economic partners. The Irish naval vessel the LÉ Róisín also visited the Port of Roscoff in support of the diplomatic work of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

“I also met with the President of the Brit tany Region, Mr Loïg Chesnais-Girard and Vice-Presidents of the Region in charge of economic development, inter national relations, maritime issues, trans port and climate. Brittany as an agricultural and maritime region is of in terest to Enterprise Ireland client com panies working in the area of agri-tech, engineering, port infrastructure and re newable energy. I am keen to continue to deliver as a Wexford TD and Govern ment Minister of State to help strengthen these economic ties with Brittany and France”, Minister Browne concluded .n

Minister James Browne (third from left in top photo) raising the profile of County Wexford and Ireland in the Brittany region including officially inaugurating the Honorary Consulate of Ireland in Brittany.

The

Two Wexford companies win at Ireland’s Best Managed Companies Awards 2022

teams of the winning companies have em braced new opportunities for innovation and growth, offering best-in-class prod ucts and services to their customers and retaining their competitive advantage in a world that is ever-changing.”

Harry Goddard, CEO, Deloitte Ireland, and judging panel member said: “A stand out from the judging process this year was the distinct focus of the Best Managed Companies on their local communities, despite their own international growth and ambition. Businesses have a vital role to play in our society. It was clear from the entries this year that they were having a positive impact not only on their own busi ness, but also on the communities around them. I look forward to seeing how these businesses continue to invest, grow and contribute to our wider society.”

Two Wexford companies have been awarded Ireland’s Best Managed Companies accolade at the 14th annual awards programme, led by Deloitte in association with Bank of Ireland. This year, Deloitte recognised 136 indigen ous companies at the awards represent ing 25 of the 32 counties across Ireland. This is the first year where the awards programme returned as an in-person event following the pandemic and culminated with a gala awards ceremony at The Convention Centre, Dublin.

The network of companies has a com bined turnover of €13.9 billion providing over 51,000 jobs across Ireland across a range of sectors – from retail and hospital ity to manufacturing and construction. The companies received recognition fol lowing a detailed judging process that evaluates the entire management team

and business strategy in some of Ireland’s top privately owned businesses, looking beyond financial performance at areas such as a company’s environmental, social and governance standards, strategic plan ning and talent strategy.

Amongst the winning companies this year were Co. Wexford’s Drover Foods Ltd and Kent Stainless Ltd. Drover Foods achieved gold standard having won for the fourth consecutive year, while Kent Stainless was recognised for the first time.

Brian Murphy, Lead Partner for Ireland’s Best Managed Companies Awards Pro gramme at Deloitte said: “Year-on-year we’re impressed by the businesses that qualify and requalify for our Best Man aged Companies Awards and in another uncertain year, the entries continued to raise the bar. Despite the challenges these businesses faced, the management

Nikki Canavan, Senior Director, Bank of Ireland Corporate Banking, said: “This has been quite a year Irish businesses, a year that began in 2022 in the grip of a global health crisis, with businesses grappling to emerge from pandemic restrictions being met almost immediately by new chal lenges, the global equilibrium rocked by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, rapid infla tionary pressure, tightening labour mar kets, not to mention, the almost forgotten, but prevailing Brexit tailwinds. The performance of these Best Managed Companies throughout the pandemic and these more recent headwinds is a testa ment to the energy, resilience and skills of their respective management teams and staff who have all been resolutely tested in ways we could not have predicted over the last few years. Bank of Ireland has been delighted to be able to support them through this year, as their bank in many cases, and also through our Coaches on the BMC programme.”

The members of this year’s judging panel were: Frank Ryan (Chair of Judging Panel) and current Chairman of the Board of IDA Ireland; Harry Goddard, CEO Deloitte Ire land; Nikki Canavan, Senior Director at Bank of Ireland Corporate Banking; Ell vena Graham, Chairman and Non-Execu tive Director; Lionel Alexander, Chairman and Board Member; Feargal Mooney, Non-Executive Director and former CEO of Hostelworld Group; Colm O’Reilly, CEO, Business Post; Colm Foster, Director of Executive Education at the Irish Man agement Institute; Tommy Breen, former CEO of DCC plc and Deirdre Purcell, AVP Sales at Salesforce. n

Kent Stainless Ltd was awarded Ireland’s Best Managed Companies accolade at the 14th annual awards programme, led by Deloitte. Pictured is Ann O'Brien, Managing Director, Kent Stainless Ltd. Pic: Jason Clarke.

WEXFORD LOCAL ENTERPRISE OFFICE TRAINING PROGRAMMES

AUTUMN/WINTER 2022

1/9/2022ThursdayTradingOnlineVoucherSeminarFionaMcGuire,JointheDotsOnline1Morning10.00-12.302.5Online

6/9/2022Tuesday&ThursdayStartYourOwnBusinessTalentPool8Evenings6.30-9.3024Online

6/9/2022TuesdayBusinessAdviceClinicMichaelO'Donoghue,ODMCConsultancy1Day9.00-5.007Online

6/9/2022TuesdaySurvive&ThriveThroughHighInflationBlaiseBrosnan,MRI1Hour1.00-2.001Online

13/9/2022TuesdayCash-YourLifeblood!BrendanByrne,ChabrenServices1Hour1.00-2.001Online

14/09/2022WednesdayGoingGlobalSeamusMurphy,KilseaLtd.7Mornings9.30-1.0024WexfordCountyCouncil

20/9/2022TuesdaySustainabilityisYourBusinessMarieDoyleHenry,AstrumConsulting1Hour1.00-2.001Online

23/9/2022FridayIntegratedSales&MarketingforSME'sSeamusMurphy,KilseaLtd.2Days9.30-5.0014WexfordCountyCouncil

26/9/2022MondayOwner/ManagerProgrammeBlaiseBrosnan,MRI20Evenings7.00-10.0060WexfordEnterpriseCentre

27/9/2022TuesdayLeanManagement&DigitalTransforationFredJones,Idryll&JimHoey1Hour1.00-2.001Online

29/9/2022ThursdayFacebookforBusiness-BeginnersDeniseWhitmore,TheSocialMediaDepartment1Afternoon1.30-5.003.5WexfordLi

3/10/2022MondayInstagramforBusinessDeniseWhitmore,TheSocialMediaDepartment1Afternoon1.30-5.003.5EnniscorthyLibrary

4/10/2022TuesdayBusinessAdviceClinicEdFlanagan1Day9.00-5.007Online

4/10/2022TuesdayStartYourOwnBusinessSeamusMurphy,KilseaLtd.10Evenings7.00-10.0030WexfordEnterpriseCentre

5/10/2022WednesdaySocialMediaMarketingClinicMuireannFitzmaurice,MarketingCoach1Day9.00-5.007Online

5/10/2022WednesdayFinancefortheNon-FinancialsGeraldineDoyle,GDAccountsTraining4Afternoons2.00-5.0012EnniscorthyEnterpr

5/10/2022Wednesday&FridayStartYourOwnBusinessforUkrainianRefugeesTalentPool6Mornings10.00-12.3015Online

6/10/2022ThursdayTradingOnlineVoucherSeminarFionaMcGuire,JointheDotsOnline1Morning10.00-12.302.5Online

10/10/2022MondayGrowFaster,GoDigitalMichaelKeogh,TheEntrepreneurAcademy2Mornings9.30-1.007Online

13/10/2022ThursdayNationalWomen'sEnterpriseDayJoanneHession,

17/10/2022MondayHowtoCreateChristmasThemedMarketingVideosKenMcHugh,LeftHandProductionsLtd2Afternoons2.00-5.006Onlin

20/10/2022ThursdaySalesClinicKarenSommerville,CallFocus1Day9.00-5.007Online

20/10/2022ThursdayPodcastingforBusinessKenMcHugh,LeftHandProductionsLtd1Afternoon1.30-5.003.5WexfordLibrary

25/10/2022TuesdayWebsiteAdviceClinicJennieFrizelle,ADKCTraining1Day9.00-5.007Online

27/10/2022ThursdayFacebookforBusiness-AdvancedDeniseWhitmore,TheSocialMediaDepartment1Afternoon1.30-5.003.5WexfordLi

28/10/2022FridayQQITrainingDelivery&EvaluationTerryHarmer,NLCTraining4Days9.30-5.0028WexfordCountyCouncil

1/11/2022TuesdayHowtoPriceYourProduct/Budgeting/CostingKeithDarcy,KeithDarcyCoaching1Day9.30-5.007WexfordCountyCou

2/11/2022WednesdayHowtoTenderSuccessfullyRossMcCarthy,KeystoneProcurement1Day9.30-5.007WexfordCountyCouncil

2/11/2022WednesdayWooCommerceFionaMcGuire,JointheDotsOnline1Afternoon1.00-5.004WexfordLibrary

3/11/2022ThursdayTik-TokforBusinessKenMcHugh,LeftHandProductionsLtd1Afternoon1.30-5.003.5WexfordLibrary

7/11/2022MondayIdeation-Creativity&InnovationforSmallBusine

8/11/2022TuesdayBusinessAdviceClinicCareyAnnLordan,REDPR1Day9.30-5.007Online 9/11/2022WednesdayFacebookforBusinessClinicDeniseWhitmore,TheSocialMediaDepartment1Day9.00-5.007Online

10/11/2022ThursdayManual&ComputerisedPayrollGeraldineDoyle, 10/11/2022ThursdayTradingOnlineVoucherSeminarFionaMcGuire,JointheDotsOnline1Morning10.00-12.302.5Online 15/11/2022TuesdayInstagramforBusinessClinicDeniseWhitmore,TheSocialMediaDepartment1Day9.00-5.007Online

16/11/2022WednesdayCanva-APracticalWorkshopHelenMcNulty,TheEntrepreneurAcademy2Afternoons2.00-5.006Online

29/11/2022TuesdayLinkedInforBusinessClinicJennieFrizelle,ADKCTraining1Day9.00-5.007Online

6/12/2022TuesdayBusinessAdviceClinicPeterSheridan1Day9.00-5.007Online

No excuse for animal abuse!

Peter from South East Animal Rescue based in Court Street, Enniscorthy, has been in touch due to three recent cases of severe animal abuse, and re questing that anyone who witnesses such activity should report it immedi ately to the Gardaí. Peter has detailed the 3 cases:

1. On the evening of Monday 12th Sep tember we were called by a lady in Da vidstown who had found a badly injured Chihuahua beside the road. When we picked the dog up it appeared that it had been thrown from a moving vehicle. The dog was malnourished and infested with fleas. We took the dog to the vet where it received treatment for three days. The dog is now with one of our fosterers and is making a good recovery. Our vet bill for the dog’s treatment is nearly €500.

2. On the evening of Monday 19th Sep tember we were called by a man to

three kittens that had been thrown from a car just outside Enniscorthy. It ap peared that they had been in a paper bag. Two of the kittens were dead, we assume from the force they had hit the bank. The third kitten could be heard crying in the woods beside the road. We searched for the kitten but could not catch it. We baited a humane trap with food and the following morning the kitten was in the trap. The kitten was

South East Animal Rescue shop now open

taken to our vet where it received a clean bill of health. The kitten is now with one of our fosterers. We have had it vaccinated, flea and worm treated, and it is now ready for rehoming.

3. On 20th September, we were called by a lady in Castlebridge. She had found two new-born puppies in a carrier bag in the Castlebridge Cemetery. We picked up the puppies and took them to our vet. The vet estimated that they were two days old. One of our fosterers took on the task of caring for them and bottle-feeding them every two hours. Tragically one of the puppies died over night.

These three heartbreaking events are just some examples of the current levels of cruelty in the South East, so South East Animal Rescue are again asking anyone who witnesses these types of acts to report them to the Gardaí im mediately. n

The South East Animal Rescue (SEAR) charity shop at 27 Court Street, Enniscorthy, has had a major makeover and is now open for business again. All are invited to call in and grab a bargain. All proceeds go towards kennelling/feeding and vet bills.

SEAR rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes animals in the South East of Ireland. It has a strict no-kill policy and all animals for rehoming are vaccinated, neutered and spayed when of age, undergo a health check, and are temperament tested, before being rehomed into suitably assessed, loving homes. Pics: Peter Myers. https://southeastanimalrescue.com/contact/ southeastanimalrescue@gmail.com

Ollie Cahill Healy ready for school with Lena Cahill and pet dog at Scoil Naomh Maodhóg, Ferns, 5th September 2022.

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

VET DIARY FOR OCT

that fascinates me from reading and watching

on indigenous peoples is their great link and bond with Nature. Tibe tan tribes, Mongolian herdsmen, nomadic tribes in Af rica, all share a common theme.

for sure they're out in Nature much more than most western world people but it’s more than just working with the land. Often they are nomadic, moving, herding and roaming over vast tracts of inhospitable terrain eking out a meagre living by Western standards. What is so heart warming is their connection to the animals they herd, to the land they walk and to each of their tribe. There seems to be a real sense of community among them too. The animals they roam with are sometimes slaughtered but every part of the animal is used, from the hide to the hoof. Also, there is often a ritual performed before the animal is slaughtered to honour the spirit of that animal. The respect that is shown to them is admir able and humbling.

When I heard my father speak of farm practice life over 70-80 years ago he spoke of the simplicity... The farm horse pulled the plough, the cart to bring them to town, and sometimes was used for the occasional hunt too. They were a part of almost every day on the working of the farm. Herd sizes were small, maybe five milking cows and some followers. They were precious, each and every one of them, because if you lost one cow to some

with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital

illness that was one fifth of your working herd gone. The care and nurturing of their animals was part and parcel of the farmers’ lives.

This tradition lives on in the farming community but as farm size expands, herd sizes grow in numbers and farmers get stretched to the very limit. It’s difficult to reach on everything and still keep that nurturing spirit for all.

Today, there is a ground swell of movement termed 'Regenerative Farming' working with the soil, to re vitalise it, in turn revitalising the crops, and healthy soils produce healthy animals. This is good news for the farming community, the environment and the con sumer. Being more mindful of these animals and like the indigenous people honouring the spirit of these noble creatures will help bring us closer to Nature and our roots... the land of our forefathers. Each of us has a role to play in this.

Taking our lead from those nomadic tribes and how they they have lived for thousands of years with no negative imprint on the land, we can coexist in a bal anced, gentle way not ravenously consuming but mindful of what we are eating. I am reminded of the old adage, 'We are what we eat' or as the French put it, 'We dig our graves with our teeth!'

Food for thought! n

The Fiat 500 has been a huge success for Fiat since it was relaunched as the new 500 back in 2007. The story of this iconic Italian city car continues in 2022 with the launch of the new electric Fiat 500e.

It goes on sale in Ireland with two battery sizes available – 24kWh and 42kWh. Go for that Fiat 500e 24kWh and you have one of the cheapest electric cars on sale right now. It’s priced from just €24,995 including grants and VRT relief. The catch? The range is just 190 kilometres (WLTP). It might work as a second car or if the car will stay in town only. The Fiat

CAROLINE GETS MOTORING

FIAT 500e

500e 42kWh offers more flexibility with a projected range of up to 320 kilometres (WLTP) and is priced from €29,995.

But whatever version you go for, this is one of the most stylish small electric cars on sale right now. It sits on a new plat form and it’s a bit longer, taller and wider…but still tiny, measuring less than four metres in length! At the front, there is a new split lighting design that adds character, while at the rear, there’s a big bumper and new lights.

There are three trim levels – Action, Icon and La Prima – with wheel sizes varying from 15- to 17-inch depending on what

model you go for. There’s even a very striking Red special edition of the car that comes packed with equipment.

Inside, the Fiat 500e has a brand new in terior that has been modernised in line with this car’s new status as a battery electric vehicle. There’s a new two-spoke steering wheel and digital instrument cluster for the driver displaying relevant information including the status of the battery. On all but the entry model there is an impressive 10-inch touchscreen using Fiat’s Uconnect system. It has lots of functionality and all versions get wire less Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

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.

out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at

Fiat 500e

The Wexford Volkswagen Stages Rally 2022 Pics by Declan Roche

Above left: Action from Saturday’s stage St Kearns-Saltmills.

Above centre: James Stafford & Tomas Scallan were flying after completion of day one stages. This photo is from the Saltmills stage 2.

Above right: The weather turned nasty for Day 2 stages. This one from the Crossabeg stage 18.

Right: Overall Winner Andrew Purcell and Andy Hayes on the crest at Saltmills bridge. Below left: The bridge at Saltmills provided great entertainment for spectators in glorious weather for Saturday’s stages. Below right: Taking the corner a bit too wide exiting St Kearns heading towards Saltmills.

BUDGET IMPLICATIONS FOR THE MOTOR INDUSTRY

VRT

No VRT changes for cars or commercial vehicles.

VAT and Excise Extensions

Extending the current excise reduction of 21 cent per litre in respect of petrol, 16 cent per litre in respect of diesel and 5.4 cent per litre in re spect of Marked Gas Oil (MGO), and the 9 per cent VAT rate for electric ity and gas until 28 February 2023.

Carbon Tax

The rate per tonne of carbon dioxide emitted for petrol and diesel will go up from €41 to €48.50 from 12 October as per the trajectory set out in the Finance Act 2020. This will mean that there will be an increase of just over two cent VAT inclusive per litre of petrol and diesel.

Recognising the sharp cost of living challenges currently being faced by society, so the government is therefore proposing to offset this carbon tax increase with a reduction to zero of the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) levy.

The NORA levy which is collected at a rate of 2 cent per litre (VAT ex clusive) will help offset the carbon tax increase which means that the price at the pump will not go up as a result of taxes or levies.

Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme

To assist businesses with their energy cost over the winter months.

Carbon Reduction Programmes €110m is being provided towards making the switch to electric vehicles. Specifically grant support is being provided for the:

Continuation of the purchase grant scheme for electric passenger cars, with a gradual reduction in the grant from July 2023

Continuation and expansion of the home charging infrastructure scheme to include multi-unit dwellings

Continuation of a grant scheme for taxi and hackney drivers with a gradual reduction in the grant from July 2023

Continuation of an alternatively fuelled heavy goods vehicles pur chase grant scheme

Continuation of the Low Emission Vehicle Toll Incentive Scheme

Reviewing the scheme for public point charging

Delivering a new Shared Island Scheme for destination charging at sports clubs

Funding research to support the further decarbonisation of transport in Ireland

Commenting on Budget 2023, SIMI Director General Brian Cooke: “SIMI is pleased that the Government listened to the Industry and did not increase VRT in Budget 2023. In addition, the extension of the EV car SEAI grant scheme for the first half of next year will bring more potential buyers into the Electric Ve hicle project, although the signal that this grant will be reduced from July is a concern. We hope the Government can re-consider this closer to the time, as any reduction could undermine sales in what is still the early stages of the EV project.” n

Brian Cooke

Enniscorthy

Club’s Cooper brothers to

Ross Road astro pitch

Congratulations to Seán Cooper (below) on being selected for the boys U-16 Irish team to play England in Royal Birkdale on the 8th and 9th of October.

And congrats to Ruairi Cooper (below)

winning the KPMG Irish Kids Golf Tour

Ireland Boys 11 championship at Carton House.

The eagerly awaited new Astro Pitch project at Ross Road, Enniscorthy, is expected to come before the elected members of Enniscorthy Municipal Dis trict later this month. The appoint ment of project managers will be confirmed by then and the procure ment of a suitable contractor is ex pected to commence later this month. The project should be complete by April 2023.

out the club’s video featuring committee member Derek Long talking about the major investment the club has made in new facilities fencing, better access paths, new walking track, new floodlights, second pitch devel opment,

there are more plans in

Moyne Rangers remember Joe Doyle

Following on from the very successful Moyne Rangers Legends match which took place in July, in honour of the late Joe Doyle, an amount of €1,705 was raised for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. At the cheque presentation to CFI were Aidan Browne, Deirdre Breen, Fergal Smyth (CFI), Anthony Breen and Kevin Lawlor. A special mention to Denise and Sean Redmond who co-organised the event with Anthony Breen. n

Lord of charity event at Enniscorthy track

World title shot for Moore?

After an impressive, unanimous deci sion victory over Brazilian Arivaldo Lima Da Silva at Bellator 285 in the 3 Arena last month, Wexford MMA fighter Brian Moore was highly praised by Conor McGregor who took to so cial media to make the case for Moore, known as The Pikeman, receiving a world title shot.

"I'm delighted for him. I’m delighted to support my long-time teammate Brian. All the rounds we’ve done over the years and all of the help over the years. Title fight next please yeah? I think so.” n

Some young people enjoying a recent night at Enniscorthy Greyhound Track.

Enniscorthy Greyhound Track in conjunc tion with The Lord Kennels have joined forces with six good causes this month. Each organisation has been assigned to a trap and will collect points at grey hound races during the month. 6 points for a win down to 1 point for 6th place.

Trap 1 Kilmore Quay RNLI

Trap 2 St Vincent de Paul, Enniscorthy

Trap 3 Hope Cancer Centre

Trap 4 Wexford Marine Watch

Trap 5 Irish Retired Greyhound Trust

Trap 6 St Patrick's School, Enniscorthy

The winning organisation will receive €1,000 and the others will each get €200. Collections boxes for each organ isation will also be at the track during the month for anyone who wants to donate to them.

A great idea and a great way for the local track to support good causes in the community. n

Best of luck to the Doran family, Craan ford, Wexford: Ger, Eamonn, Caitríona and Ollie, and their mentor Davy Fitzge rald, for Season 10 of ‘Ireland's Fittest Family’ showcasing Ireland's fittest, fast est and strongest families. n

Enniscorthy’s

Brian Moore

Buggy and Galen Riordan

Pic: Jim Campbell.

All-Ireland winners Gavin Buggy and Galen Riordan (Wexford) with the defeated Gary McConnell and Brian Carroll from Meath.

When it was announced earlier in the year that the new Handball Centre in Croke Park would not be ready in time to host this year’s Senior Softball Finals, Wexford GAA Handball offered to host the Doubles Semi-Finals and Fi nals. Little did we know at that stage how things would work out, but we were over the moon when Galen Riordan and Gavin Buggy won their Semi Final, as it guaranteed Wexford representation in the Final on home soil, a very rare occurrence indeed.

The opposition in the final were the current Senior Doubles champions from Meath, Gary McConnell and Brian Carroll, with Brian seeking his tenth senior doubles title and Gary his third. In contrast, Galen was playing in his first senior final and we have to go back to 2006 for the one and only time that Gavin reached a senior final when he partnered Barry Goff in defeat to Dublin.

The general consensus across the country was that there could only be one winner with Meath looking good in their semi-final win against Dublin. The large Wexford contingent lucky enough to get tickets for this historic final broadly felt the same but still reckoned that anything can happen in a once-off final.

Following a rousing rendition of the National Anthem from Castlebridge local Matty Murphy, the action got underway on an even keel. Meath then got into their stride and opened up an ominous 11-5 lead. It was backs to the wall stuff for Galen and Gavin and while they fought for every ball they just could not stem the tide and Meath took the first game in impressive fashion 21-7.

Wexford regrouped and started to get a foothold in the sec ond game, opening up a 10-3 lead. The Wexford contingent were very vocal at this stage and sensed that our lads had a chance. As all good champions do when under pressure, they respond, and Gary and Brian did just that and went into a sig nificant 14-10 lead, looking likely to close out for three in a row. Galen and Gavin had other ideas, however, and in a re markable spell took the game by the scruff of the neck, play ing some wonderful handball, and did not concede another

point in the second game winning it 21-14.

The atmosphere at this stage in Castlebridge was electric and everything hinged on the tiebreaker to 11 aces. The Wexford crowd now had the belief that the near impossible task earlier could be achievable. Even though Meath got the first ace in the tiebreak, the momentum was with Wexford and they kept their best handball to the end, serving and killing brilliantly, with Meath on this occasion not able to match the fitness, composure and intensity of the Wexford men. The roof nearly came in when Gavin and Galen finally got over the line win ning it 11- 2.There were emotional scenes at the end with family, friends and the Wexford handball community all gath ered in the court to share in this famous win with Galen and Gavin.

It was a tremendous occasion and great to see Gavin finally getting the Senior medal he so richly deserves, which with time not really on his side, was looking more elusive year on year. Galen on the other hand has got his name on the Roll of Honour at his first attempt,

And now for a few ‘thank you’ notes. On behalf of Wexford GAA Handball, I would like to thank Castlebridge Handball Club for hosting both the semi-finals and both ladies and mens finals. It was a fitting venue to stage these prestigious matches and the hospitality was second to none; to Gary McConnell and Brian Carroll for making it such a thrilling con test and for their graciousness in defeat; to Frank Daly from Na Fianna, Dublin, for refereeing the final so well; to GAA Handball for organising the Championships and all that goes with that; to Marguerite Gore and David Kenny for taking on the onerous roles as co-commentators for the live stream (It can still be viewed on the GAA Handball Facebook page).

Their knowledge, insight and passion really added to the occa sion. A big thanks too to Matty Murphy for singing the Na tional Anthem so beautifully on both weekends.

Finally to the Wexford players, Galen and Gavin, you made everyone proud to reach the holy grail after a final that will live long in the memory. Heartiest congratulations to you both.

Tony Reid, Secretary Wexford Handball.

All-Ireland winners Gavin Buggy and Galen Riordan (Wexford). Pic: Jim Campbell.

Winners of Girls All-Ireland Final in Castlebridge on 17th September 2022 were L-R: Aisling O’Keeffe and Cathriona Casey (Cork) with runners-up Pauline Gallagher and Mollie Dagg (Kildare).

The Wexford Volkswagen Stages Rally 2022

Wexford Pair James Stafford and Tomas Scallan make their way to the start of Stage 1 on Wexford Quays in the Wexford Volkswagen Stages Rally 2022.

Veteran campaigners Pierce Doherty, Shay Byrne and Nicholas Foley.

Shay Byrne and John Kelly from Duncormick.

The Slaney View Motors car sets off on the first stage of the rally.

Wexford men William Treacy and Thomas O’Rourke at the start on Stage 1.

P.J. Murphy checking the cars on Wexford Quays.

Long time supporters of the Wexford Rally are Ferrybank Motors, L-R: John O’Rourke and his mum Mary, and Ken Blanche.

A powerful and uplifting story

Powerlifting is a sport that is heavily male dominated but a 21-year-old woman from Enniscorthy, who is relatively new to the sport, is changing that story here in Ireland and abroad.

Lystus Ebosele is on a year’s break from her Biomedical Health & Life Sciences course at UCD to concentrate on power lifting, which can involve training seven hours a day at the ABS Powerlifting Gym in Finglas. That dedication paid off hand somely when she took second place at the World Junior Powerlifting Champion ships in Turkey at the end August in the 84kg category, setting a new European Junior record in the process.

Described by her coach as being physi cally and mentally strong, having natural athletic ability, and being very competi tive, Lystus’ progress in the powerlifting world is assured.

That natural athletic ability can also be seen in Lystus’ brother, Festy, a profes sional footballer who has been capped at underage for Ireland and is currently play ing with Udinese in Italy’s top division.

Lystus featured on RTE’s Nationwide pro gramme on 14th September, catch it while you can on the RTE Player. n

WEXFORD SCHOOLS INVITED TO COMPETE FOR ‘IRELAND’S FITTEST’ TITLE

A call has gone out to schools in Wexford, from Irish Olym pians, sprinter Phil Healy and fellow athlete, David Gillick, who have joined forces with Fyffes in a quest to find ‘Ireland’s Fittest School’.

Registration for the Competition, which runs until March 31st, can now be made online at www.fyffesfitsquad.ie, with the overall winner to be announced in April.

Coupled with monthly and spot prize rewards, one successful school will have the distinction of being chosen as ‘Ireland’s Fittest School 2023’, the prize for which will be a visit from Healy and Gillick and €5,000 worth of sports equipment.

The commencement of the competition coincides with the re sumption this month of Fyffes children’s fitness programme of live school visits following a two-year break during Covid. The upcoming schedule will see some 7,500 pupils from schools throughout Ireland, North and South, participate in an inter active Fit Squad session between now and March next. n

Mick Murphy Memorial 4-Mile

Above and below: Mick Murphy Memorial 4-Mile Road Race, Ferns, hosted by Sliabh Buidhe Rovers AC, 3rd September 2022.

Road Race, Ferns, 3rd Sept 2022

Above left: Emma Nolan at the start of race. Above centre: Slaney Olympic team mates Alan Ronan and Des Killeen. Above right: Helen Burrell, John and Sharon Dier.

Above left: Thomas Kavanagh the oldest man in the race. Above centre: Nicola Beisiegel, Mary Kennedy and Leah Maher. Above right: Photographer Paddy Morgan and Ferns’ one and only Tommy McElwain.

Above left: Rory Cassidy, Simon Murray and Sean Doyle. Above right: Liz Tully, Rob Doyle, Libby and Olive Brownrigg.

Bree Snooker back after twoyear covid related absence

After an absence of over two years, due to the impact of Covid, a meeting of interested parties took place on 15th June 2022 in the Billiards room in Bree Community Centre. Long serving club member and Secretary Jimmy O'Brien was keen to get the club up and running again.

John Bolger Junior stepped up to the mark to fill the shoes of his late father John, taking on the role of Chairman. His brother Pat opted to continue in the role of PRO. John Wilson took on the role of Secretary/Treasurer, with Bill Cahill and Martin Cahill coming onboard as committee members. Jimmy O'Brien and Patrick Leacy offered to assist as mentors while the new committee found its feet.

The first order of business was to organise the completion of the "Jimmy O'Brien Billiards Perpetual Trophy 2019/2020". The tournament had only begun when Covid stopped the order of play back in February/March 2020. It has now prog ressed nicely to the Final, seeing Patrick Leacy (-30) take on Damien O'Neill (+30) this week. First player to reach a score of 200 takes the title. Beaten semi-finalists were Jimmy O'Brien (+50) and John Wilson (+20) in two good, entertaining matches. The highest break stands at 27, notched up by Pa

Young

Enniscorthy rugby player picked for Poland

Congrats to Dominik Morycki (pictured on left in accom panying photo) who made a little bit of history in Enniscorthy Rugby Club by being selected for the Polish under 23 international side, a proud moment for Dominik, his family and everyone involved in Enniscorthy Rugby Club. n

trick Leacy, but anything can happen on Final night.

Finally, as the club resumes activities for the 2022/2023 sea son, it is inviting all past members to return to the Green Baize of Bree and sign up again. New members from far and near are always most welcome, and membership has been set at €25 for the season. Currently the club is inviting membership from anyone aged 18 years and over, but hope to put the structures in place to cater for under-age players at some stage in the future. Bree Billiards and Snooker Club is now af filiated to ‘Snooker and Billiards Ireland’. All members must abide by the policies of the aforementioned association (Code of Conduct, Health & Safety, etc.).

The next order of business will be the running of the "Dawson Perpetual Snooker Shield 2022/2023" in the coming weeks.

Past and potential new members are asked to contact Secre tary John Wilson via text or whatsapp on 087 914 0234 to reg ister your interest for the 2022/2023 season. Please include your name in the message and you will be added to the con tacts database for regular updates regarding tournament round deadlines, entry fee, etc. n

Finding friends and family in Newfoundland

I was delighted to be part of the Wexford delegation to the launch of the di gitisation of The Mannion Collection by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin at City Hall, Cork, on Monday 5th September.

The Mannion Collection is the digitised version of the very extensive records of Dr. John Mannion, retired Galway-born Professor of Geography at Memorial Uni versity of Newfoundland and his wife and research partner, Maura, reflecting their lifetimes' work on Irish emigration to, and settlement in Newfoundland.

The project was jointly funded by the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Provincial Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and contains almost 160,000 records of individuals and families who migrated from South-East Ireland, the counties of Waterford, Wex ford, Kilkenny, Carlow, Wicklow and Tip perary, and settled in Newfoundland, primarily in the years 1765-1835.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD officially launched the project in the presence of Patrick Mannion, son of John and Maura who were unable to attend due to a Covid positive test.

Micheál Martin stressed the importance of the project saying, “I was delighted to be asked to officiate at this launch which expresses the spirit of the second sen tence of Article 2 of our Constitution, re vised as part of the Good Friday Agreement, that now reads: ‘...the Irish nation cherishes its special affinity with people of Irish ancestry living abroad who share its cultural identity and heritage.’”

The digitisation work was carried out by dedicated technical staff at the New foundland and Labrador Statistics Agency in St. John’s, the NL Govern ment’s central statistics agency.

The project was co-managed and led by the Agency and Memorial University’s Dr. Sean Cadigan, with collaboration and support of the NL Irish Connections and Irish Newfoundland Connections groups.

The website holds extensive information on the largest single migration from a small confined geographical area Southeast Ireland to another small con fined geographical area in Newfoundland.

The launch was hosted by Waterfordbased group Ireland-Newfoundland Con nections, who since 2005, along with its

Canadian counterpart, Newfoundland and Labrador Irish Connections, and local com mittees in Wexford, Kilkenny and Carlow, has operated annual cultural and social gatherings in both places, alternating be tween South-East Ireland and the Irish heri tage areas of Newfoundland, with over 60 communities in Ireland and 40 in Newfound land and over 1,000 participants taking part so far.

This project has huge potential for the South East of Ireland and the Wexford del egation, in attendance, Tom Boland, Maria Nolan, Niall Wall, Michael Casey and Seamus Casey, who have all visited New foundland as part of the annual Festival of the Sea, have been active in encouraging the Newfoundland visitors to spend time in County Wexford, as Wexford names, ac cents, and traditions are particularly preva lent on this, our other island, and this new website will enable you to facilitate a quick and easy search for your name and rela tions among the Newfoundland Irish. The official launch of the project sees all these records available for the first time on a free to access online portal, now available at www.mannioncollection.ca

Maria Nolan (right) with Canadian Ambassador Nancy Smyth and Patrick Mannion.

Members of the Wexford delegation Niall Wall, Michael Murphy, Seamus Casey and Mick Casey.

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin greets Wexford County Councillor Michael Whelan.

Mannion Collection Launch. Seated L-R: Canadian Ambassador Nancy Smyth, Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Deirdre Forde, Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Back row L-R: Minister Mary Butler, Chair of Newfound-Ireland Connections Ralph Tapper, Newfoundland-Ireland Committee member George Power, Patrick Mannion, Asst Deputy Minister for Finance Newfoundland Alton Hollett, Chair of Ireland-Newfoundland Connections Eamonn Murphy, Waterford Mayor John O’Leary.

Craanford honours and remembers

Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society were delighted to be part of the recent commemoration ceremony at Craan ford for the unveiling of two memorial stones in remem brance of 65 men and women of the locality who formed the 4th Battalion North Wexford IRA and Cumann na mBan.

Following the 10.30am mass, Piper Michael Roche led a parade of members of the United Nations Veterans Association, members of EHRS in Flying Column attire, to the picturesque site, where Wexford Co. Council’s Historian-in-Residence Barry Lacey was on hand to give a brief overview of some of the activ ities of the North Wexford 4th, during the War of Independence to the large crowd that turned out for the special occasion.

Sarah Dreelan, daughter of John Reddy, and Paddy Mordaunt, son of Michael Mordaunt, jointly unveiled the monuments which were then blessed by Fr. Brian Whelan.

Wreaths were laid, and Piper Michael Roche played a lament in memory of all those who served in the struggle for Irish freedom. MC Geraldine Murphy paid tribute to Martin Whelan for his vision and arduous work on this historic project saying, ‘Martin is defi nitely, a doer. When he gets a notion, and some might say a mad notion, he just ploughs on and sees it through to the bitter end.’ Padraig Kenny, grandson of Paddy Kenny, offered a fine rendition of ‘Shall My Soul Pass Through Old Ireland’.

Anthony Nolan played the Last Post on the trumpet, as the Tricol our was raised, followed by the National Anthem bringing pro ceedings to a conclusion.

A very special day for the people of Craanford as they ensure that those in the past will not be forgotten by those in the future.

Words & pics by Maria Nolan

Members of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society in Craanford.

Above left: Sarah Dreelan and Michael Mordaunt who unveiled the monuments. Above right: Re-enactor Owen Dunbar remembering his grandmother Mary Doran and her brother Peter Doran of Foxcover, Monaseed.

Call made to protect Ireland’s thatched cottages

Johnny Mythen TD

Sinn Féin TD for Co. Wexford Johnny Mythen has called on the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to act in supporting and protecting thatched cottages, due to threats to their future from soaring maintenance costs and lack of insurance options.

Deputy Johnny Mythen said, “Thatched cottages are a very important part of our heritage in Co. Wexford and across Ireland.

“What used to be the main type of housing on the island has been re duced to just over an estimated 1,000 units.

“People travel from all over the world to see these unique icons of Irish history. Their preservation is vital for Irish tourism as well as a beautiful reminder of times past.

“These cottages represent the landscape and craftmanship of the time and the ingenuity of the people who lived in them.

“The preservation and upkeep of these thatched cottages can often be costly and difficult.

“Owners who purchase these properties should be given as much sup port as possible, as they are the guardians and keepers of our cultural and structural heritage.

“Insurance costs have also been soaring and the most recent update is that these property owners are not able to secure insurance at all.

“I have asked the Minister to intervene to provide support to ensure that our heritage of thatched cottages in Ireland is protected and pre served.” n

Tom Kehoe: the man from two counties

North Wexford Historical Society talk in Gorey Library

Thursday, October 27th, 7-8pm.

As part of the decade of centenaries, learn

Tom Kehoe the man from two counties.

Power

story

book Tom Kehoe

researched his remark

has just published his

the man

Remembering the Royal Irish & South Irish Horse Regiments

Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society were privi leged recently to be part of the ceremony to mark the cen tenary of the disbandment of the Royal Irish Regiment and South Irish Horse at the William Redmond Monument at Redmond Park, Wexford.

The solemn and dignified ceremony included the opening ad dress by Niall Matthews, followed by the poignant John McCrae poem In Flanders Fields and the Ode of Remembrance, ‘They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.’ Bugler Sean Cosgrave sounded the Last Post, followed by a Minute’s Silence and Reveille and Dedication, ‘When you go home, tell them of us and say, For your tomorrow we gave our today.’

Member of the Royal Irish Regiment Society Maryanne Maher, from Ballingarry, Co. Tipperary, read King George V’s Farewell Address on the disbandment of the Six Southern Irish Regi ments and six wreaths were laid for Royal Irish, South Irish Horse, Connaught Rangers, Prince of Wales Leinster, Royal Munster Fusiliers and Royal Dublin Fusiliers, along with a family wreath laid by Anthony Cosgrave.

The ceremony at Redmond Park concluded with the National Anthem after which members attended at the newly opened Min Ryan Park to pay their respects at the newly erected rep lica of the Cross of Ginchy, the original cross being carved from the beam of a ruined building by men from the 16th Irish Divi sion after the Battle of the Somme in November 1916.

The Ginchy Cross has become associated with the commem oration of the Irish who died during the Great War, and the original is housed at the Irish National War Memorial Gardens, Islandbridge, Dublin.

Maria Nolan

Fine Gael to hold day of commemorations on October 9th

Fine Gael in County Wexford are set to hold a day of com memorations on Sunday next, 9th October. The commemorations will celebrate the lives of Commandant Peter Doyle and Captain Thomas Doyle, unarmed Free State sol diers who were assassinated in Enniscorthy on October 10th, 1922, 100 years ago. Cmdt. Doyle, and Capt. Doyle, who are unrelated, were attending a mission mass hosted by the Vincentian Fathers from Phibsborough, Dublin, in Enniscorthy Cathedral. A huge crowd was present including the two soldiers.

After the mass ended, the two unarmed, uniformed men left the cathedral and walked down Main Street. As they did, a pair of assassins stepped out of the shadows of the evening and approached them. Without warning, they opened fire on the soldiers, who fell to the ground, mortally wounded.

On hearing the gunfire, panic broke out amongst the crowd leaving mass with people fleeing in all directions. At this time, a lorry full of Free State troops raced into Market Square. In the confusion, the newly arrived soldiers believed they too were under attack and opened fire into the fleeing crowd, in juring four women, one of whom subsequently needed her leg amputated.

When the shooting finally subsided, the two wounded soldiers were lying on the ground where they had fallen (just outside No. 21 Main Street). Peter Doyle, who was 29 and from Balli nakill, Marshalstown, died that night, while his comrade, Tho mas Doyle, who was 27 and from Curragraigue, Ballindaggin, succumbed to his wounds eight days later. The perpetrators of the assassinations were never identified.

To commemorate the lives of these men, there will be a wreath-laying at the spot of their assassination after 10am mass in St. Aidan’s Cathedral on Sunday, October 9th. Follow ing that, wreaths will be laid at both men’s graves, Peter Doyle’s in Marshalstown, and Thomas Doyle’s in Ballindaggin.

Later that day, between 2pm and 5pm, a second commem oration event will take place in the Riverside Park Hotel, Ennis corthy. The commemoration will be dedicated to the life and work of Michael Collins. There will be several items of mem orabilia and tributes on show. Contributors include Paul Kehoe TD, Senator Barry Ward, former Fine Gael M.E.P. and current Vice-President of Atlantic Technological University Chris O’Malley, relative of Michael Collins Joan Browne, Ibar Carty and Fran Riley, South Dublin County Councillor David McMa nus and Noel Scannell from Fermoy, Co. Cork. The event is open to the public and all are welcome to attend what is sure to be an informative day. n

Stunning portraits by Ken Hayes, Photo Artist

Enniscorthy Castle is home to a rare piece of medieval graffito, incised in the dungeon wall a 1m tall figure with sword in hand thought to be from the 16th century. This work of wall art from times past is the centrepiece of the Castle’s autumnal exhibition Writing on the Wall which runs until 31st October.

Enniscorthy Castle Manager Mico Hassett explains, "An archaeological report was completed in 2012 on our drawing thanks to Heritage Council funding. They recom mended a full digital survey of the swords man figure. Originally referred to as a Halberdier, the figure is, in fact, a swords man thought to date to the late 16th cen tury. Further funding allowed us to complete the digital survey using 3D laser imaging, 3D photogrammetry and 2D RTI imaging. The data retrieved allows us to showcase the piece across our main floor and will monitor the condition of the art work over time too."

The exhibition centrepiece is a full-sized 3D print of the wall art. A video of the sur vey process and the finished 3D print were on display at the launch event on 19th Au gust as part of the Castle’s Heritage Week events.

Eve Furlong, deputy manager of Ennis corthy Castle, says, "The 3D print allows us to bring the Swordsman out of the dun geon and into the main exhibition space of the Castle, which creates better accessi bility, opportunities for up-close engage ment and additional educational materials to be showcased.”

Admission to the exhibition is €6 with a family of five for just €15, making it a great value proposition for a tour. Writing on the Wall Chisel to Spray Can: Graffito, Graffiti and Wall Art runs in the castle until Halloween with the full dislay exploring the history of graffiti and wall art from the Neolithic to the present day. The focus on political graffiti, the rise of graffiti in the 80s and the local Enniscorthy Walls Project offers patrons plenty of insight to graffiti art through the ages across the world. n

Bringing the Swordsman out of the dungeon

Below: The exhibition centrepiece a full-sized 3D print of Enniscorthy Castle’s

dungeon wall art was unveiled by Enniscorthy Castle Manager Mico Hassett and Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Aidan Browne.

Bottom: Conor Gibson, Lisa Byrne, Larry Dunne of The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, at the exhibition launch.

Record-breaking big beach clean

The Clean Coasts organisation re ceived overwhelming support and commitment from Wexford volunteers and communities for the Big Beach Clean weekend which took place between 16th and 18th September. Over 360 volunteers from Co. Wexford joined in, removing approximately 2 tonnes of litter.

The Big Beach Clean is an annual call to action that runs as part of the Inter national Coastal Cleanup (ICC), operated internationally by Ocean Conservancy and invites communities and volunteers around the country to remove litter from around the Irish coast after the end of the bathing season.

Once more, volunteers were asked to join the call to action, no matter how far from the coast. Statistics show that the number one cause of marine litter is litter dropped in towns and cities and getting involved in the Big Beach Clean has been a way for residents of noncoastal counties to help prevent litter entering our waterways, thus tackling the problem at its source.

This year, a record number of over 500 clean-ups were organised by volunteers who removed over 63 tonnes of litter na tionwide.

In County Wexford, 32 groups banded together to carry out clean-up events re moving an estimated 2 tonnes of litter over the weekend. Among these groups were Tomhaggard Clean Coasts Group, Duncannon Tidy Towns, Bridgemeadow Residents Association, and others. Groups in Co. Wexford tackled litter in several locations, including The White Hole Beach, Duncannon Beach and in Enniscorthy.

Each year this initiative is also an oppor tunity for Big Beach Clean Wexford vol unteers to get involved in a worldwide citizen science project, which entails col lecting the amount and types of litter on Irish beaches and filling in Clean Coasts’ Marine Litter Data Cards to share with Ocean Conservancy, to help heighten

Wexford Estuary Group cleanup of Goodtide Harbour.

awareness about the issue of marine litter, serving as an indicator of the mag nitude of the problem and helping shape future policies and campaigns.

So far, data collected from the Inter national Coastal Cleanup has informed policy in a number of areas, leading to laws banning the use of plastic grocery bags; prohibiting smoking-related litter; encouraging the use of reusable bags; prohibiting mass balloon releases; and prohibiting foam food and beverage takeaway containers.

Cully and Sully supported the initiative again this year. Cullen Allen (Cully) said, “We were delighted with yet another amazing Big Beach Clean weekend. The Clean Coasts staff and volunteers were fantastic across the weekend, although

we know many are out every weekend of the year, not just Big Beach Clean week end. So Thank You all. This is one of our favourite initiatives across the year and it was so heartwarming to see the great turnout yet again for 2022.”

Clean Coasts and Cully and Sully have also teamed up to create some re sources to help people educate them selves on which household items are recyclable, which ones aren't and how to correctly dispose of rubbish in your home as well as rubbish found on the beach. If you’re curious about recycling basics, common beach finds and how to dispose of them, what happens to our waste, stats on recycling in Ireland and more, head to to the Clean Coasts recyc ling webpage.

Funding for

support the implementation of the National Biodiversity Action Plan, the

draft of which is currently out for public consultation.

it was launched in 2018, a total of almost €4m

been granted to local authorities through the LBAF to carry out projects in support of the National Biodiversity Action Plan 2017-2021 (NBAP).

approved this year for Wexford are shown below.

The public consultation for Ireland’s 4th National Biodiversity Action Plan launched on September 1st and submissions are invited through www.gov.ie/biodiversityplan. The public consultation will close on November 9th and the 4th NBAP will be published in early 2023.

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