Slaney News, Issue 165, February 2024.

Slaney News Issue 165 – February 2024

The official sod-turning for the ‘Building Bellefield’ project at Bellefield, Enniscorthy, took place on 6th February 2024.

See pages 16 and 22-23.

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Contents of this issue of Slaney News...

News page 4 Leisure & Lifestyle page 58 Arts page 95 Food & Drink page 104 Business & Finance page 110 Pets page 122 Motoring page 124 Sport page 128 History & Heritage page 136 Environment page 139 We would be delighted to receive stories and photos from our readers around the county. If you have anything you’d like us to share, please email slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as many photos and stories as possible.

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

Welcome to the February issue of the Slaney News.

2024 is shaping up to be an important year in the business, social, cultural and sporting life of Enniscorthy. We report in this issue on the official launch of the Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan and on the official sod-turning for the ‘Building Bellefield’ project.

Speaking at the launch of the latter, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council Tom Enright spoke of the long-term benefit that the new facilities will bring to Enniscorthy, stating, “Wexford County Council is pleased to be part of this wonderful project that will bring real, long-term health and wellbeing benefits to the wider town of Enniscorthy. I wish to thank the Chairperson of the Rapparees Starlights and the Club for embarking on such an ambitious project and to particularly recognise the very generous contribution of Sam McCauley, which has made this project a reality.”

Cllr John O’Rourke, as he turned the sod, said, “Let it be a symbol of shared determination to create an inclusive community space that will benefit generations to come.”

Wexford County Council will be focusing on realigning and reimagining the entrance to the facility from the public road by significantly enhancing the safety of the approach and entry/exit through a new pedestrian crossing and off-street public car parking. The Council will also be developing a new playground there. Full details on pages 16 and 22-23.

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

If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our new format. Telephone: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has over 11,500 Followers.

And, of course, if you like our online format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you.

– Frank Corcoran

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

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

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

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

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

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Flying the flag for Moyne Rangers

Kiltealy’s Anne Cushen is one of the stars of this season’s hit TV show on RTE – Operation Transformation.

And Anne also happens to be one of Moyne Rangers’ top supporters. Anne’s visit to the club last month featured on the programme as she participated in a training session in Enniscorthy Community College with the ladies team under the watchful eye of manager, Sean Remo.

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Eamonn throws his hat EAMONN DOYLE IS PUTTING HIS NAME ON THE BALLOT PAPER FOR THE ENNISCORTHY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT ELECTION WHICH WILL TAKE PLACE EARLY THIS SUMMER... AND HE IS VERY MUCH LOOKING FORWARD TO THE CHALLENGE AND THE OPPORTUNITY, IF ELECTED, TO SERVE THE PEOPLE OF ENNISCORTHY AND DISTRICT...

Eamonn Doyle (Independent) has set out his stall as follows: I stand for Equality IN & Equality FOR Enniscorthy.

My name is Eamonn Doyle, and I am 56 years of age, married to Emma and we have three kids – Ethan (11), Evan (5) and Eva (3). I am a native of Enniscorthy and have lived my entire life on the slopes of Vinegar Hill on the east side of the river Slaney. Ours is a community with a long and proud tradition of local government representation (indeed my own father spent 40 years on the Urban and then Town Council and 20 years representing the district on the County Council) but sadly now there is no councillor from this part of the district. I wish to offer a solution to that problem, and I will be putting my name on the ballot paper for this year’s local election as an Independent Candidate. I spent a year on the Town Council just before it was disbanded in 2014 and was honoured to represent all the people of Enniscorthy at that time.

Eamonn with pal Richie Cotter

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When the Town Council was disbanded, my public service didn’t end. In 2010 I was the sole founder of Enniscorthy’s Rock n Roll music festival, then known as the Riverside Jump. That event subsequently joined forces (in 2015) with a new street food festival organised by the local Chamber to become the Rockin’ Food Festival. I retain responsibility for organising the music part of the event (with the support of the members of the Southeast Rock n Roll Club, see below) and have been honoured to be involved in building something special. I have also been one of the main organisers of a series of annual community-based music festivals like the Roots Rhythms Festival (formerly Strawberry Roots Festival), the Slaney Bluegrass Festival and I also help out on the Blackstairs Blues Festival.

I am Chairperson and a founding member of the Southeast Rock n Roll Club, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to the promotion of 1950s music, dancing and lifestyle. This is perhaps the biggest organisation of its kind in the country and certainly the only organisation of its kind outside Dublin and Belfast. Our club has organised hundreds of gigs and events since our formation in 2011 and brought thousands of visitors to Enniscorthy from all over the world. As a music promoter, I have also been involved in bringing many

Eamonn Doyle

different styles of music to town especially in the areas of Folk, Blues, Country and good old fashioned Rock music. In summary, my activity in the world of music and arts has directly created thousands of bed nights in Enniscorthy and put our little town on the national and global music map.

My interest in tourism doesn’t end there as I am passionately interested in local and national history, and I have written and published poetry about our history and environment. I am currently a member of the Enniscorthy East Community Development Committee who are formulating and driving plans for a series of exciting community and tourism-based initiatives including a potential amphitheatre for the Turret Rocks.

A SPORTING LIFE I spent most of my life involved in sporting organisations of some sort and was actively involved in playing Hurling, Gaelic Football, Association Football and Basketball to a reasonable level. My GAA experience started under-age with the Rapparees/Starlights where I was delighted to win a Juvenile Premier County Title, but my adult life was spent with the Shamrocks on the side of Vinegar Hill and I was honoured to represent them at Intermediate and Senior Level in the late 90s. I played soccer for

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t in the ring!

Shamrock Rovers for most of my life and spent ten years playing in the Wexford Premier Division for that great club. I also served both clubs at Committee level and along with Peter Quinn was responsible for the creation and launch of the St. Senan's Sports Lotto which has helped ensure the financial health of both clubs since we started it in the mid-90s. Enniscorthy also has a proud Basketball history (possibly because of the Boys Club) and it was a particular joy for me to represent the Enniscorthy Steelers in the SE Basketball league.

A POLITICAL LEGACY As I said above, my father Sean Doyle was a local politician in Enniscorthy and District for more than 40 years. Dad was initially with Sinn Féin but then became an Independent for the second half of his political life. Both dad and I live in a working-class area and helping our friends and neighbours was a large part of what drove dad. I share his ideals and social democratic political outlook and if elected I will proudly represent the same constituency that he fought for. Sean is 90 this year and I believe it would be a fitting gift from me to win back his seat.

EQUALITY 'IN' ENNISCORTHY Living on the Shannon side of Enniscorthy for over 50 years means I am acutely aware of the disparity in resources and facilities between the two parishes in Enniscorthy and, if elected, I will offer a voice to an entire community who currently don’t have one. I strongly believe that the best is yet to come for Enniscorthy & District, and we have huge potential for growth in the coming decades, but this future growth and prosperity must be shared across all sections of our population not just on one side of the river.

Temple Shannon and the Eastern Quay were once thriving business hubs and they must be revitalised asap for the benefit of everyone in the district.

EQUALITY 'FOR' ENNISCORTHY I won’t just represent the east however, everyone who wants and needs my help will receive equal representation no matter where in the district they come from. I will be a proud member of TEAM Enniscorthy as we fight to retain our

status at County and Regional level, battling with the other Districts for the meagre available resources.

SUPPORTING A STRONG FARMING COMMUNITY Our town and district are a typical traditional Market Town and Hinterland, and for Enniscorthy to grow we need a strong and thriving Farming sector. The area around the river Slaney has some of the finest Farmland in the world and what is produced here by our farmers and associated small artisan food suppliers is of world class quality. This must be protected, and our farmers and food suppliers must be able to make a decent living producing this incredible food. I will be engaging directly with the local IFA organisations to offer them a friendly ear and another voice at local government level.

A UNITED DISTRICT IS A STRONG DISTRICT We cannot succeed in the future as separate Urban and Rural communities. Only working together as a United District can we achieve our maximum potential. With our town population supporting local farmers and food producers and our rural population supporting our local retail and hospitality sectors we can survive together the challenges of online shopping and the retail strength of some of the other towns in Wexford.

ALL ISSUES ARE LOCAL Over the years, Central Government has stripped away most of the power of Local Authorities which makes it very difficult to really effect change. This means that in many ways now local councillors really are just representatives of their local areas and they exist to give a voice to the concerns and problems of their constituents alerting our National and European representatives to the issues at grassroots level.

INDEPENDENTS 'FOR' ENNISCORTHY I have a lot of respect for all the sitting councillors who I believe do their best to represent Enniscorthy well, but I do strongly believe that party politics has no place at local level. In my opinion all District Councillors should be independent so their entire focus can be given to the people they represent without having to

worry about what their party policy is. I also feel that Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil are both influenced by powerful big business lobbies and do little to help the small businessperson, farmer, PAYE worker or struggling families. During the election I will urge anyone supporting me with a number 1 vote to continue to vote No.2 etc for the other independents on the ballot. We need as many independents as possible on the council to ensure full and fair representation. Let’s do what’s right for the people of Enniscorthy & District not what’s right for the big political parties who have divvied up the political rewards available in Ireland for the last 100 years.

POLICIES I will publish a comprehensive policy document closer to the election but some of my core strategies include – 1. The further development and promotion of Enniscorthy as a local tourism hub with a focus in three potential growth areas. a. Realising the potential of Enniscorthy as a “History & Heritage” District. b. Further developing Enniscorthy as a National hub for Music and the Arts and promoting the Night economy properly. c. Develop the River as tourism amenity including potential to develop a permanent Riverside Camper Van Facility like Graiguenamanagh.

2. To support the above I will push for an immediate re-introduction of an Enniscorthy Tourism Committee to drive improvements and focus minds.

3. Revitalisation of our Market Town Legacy and promotion of the “Slaney Valley” as a District Apart with Enniscorthy at its centre. The Slaney Valley contains some of Cont’d overleaf 

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SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad the richest farmland on earth and our main River's name is derived from the Gaelic word for Health so we effectively live on the River of Health, surely this is something that we can use commercially to create a positive story about our already excellent food products.

4. Promotion of Enniscorthy as a great place to live and raise a family. We’re just an hour from South Dublin now and in the next ten years there is huge potential for people to move out of the big city and get some value here with an improved quality of life.

New people will add to our local economy and help us develop the cultural aspects described above.

5. Support for local voluntary and community groups which play a vital role in making Enniscorthy a pleasant place to live. Volunteers are the foundation stones of a great community and I have long been involved in this area and understand that they need support.

6. Development of more facilities and resources for young people.

7. Fostering more community integration of the various ethnic minority groups in the district whether they are local or imported ethnic groups.

8. Advocate for the re-introduction of Town Councils. I believe that the move away from these institutions was a step in the wrong direction.

9. As described above, I will be a strong advocate for the fair and transparent application of resources to all areas of the district but in particular those areas where the perception that they are being left behind is strongly felt.

10. I will also champion the development of Enniscorthy as an ideal venue for small niche festival events, both pub and community based." n

WANTED! Committee members.

Stewards.

More groups to take part.

Musicians and entertainers.

New ideas.

New committee members, stewards, participating groups, musicians & entertainers, and people with new ideas are all needed to help boost the St Patrick’s Day festival in Enniscorthy.

Please consider helping out to preserve and develop this great community day in Enniscorthy and make 2024 a St Patrick's Day to remember in the town.

If you would like to help out, please email: emdreception@wexfordcoco.ie n

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Cólette Ní Nuallain (Colette Nolan) Cólette Ní Nuallain will be the Sinn Féin candidate in this year’s local elections in the Enniscorthy Local Electoral Area (LEA). Originally from Cherryorchard, Enniscorthy, she has been living in Ferns, for almost twenty years.

Speaking about her selection, Cólette says, “It's a great pleasure, honour and very humbling to announce that I have been nominated and selected by my comrades and colleagues in Sinn Féin, to contest the next local elections in the Enniscorthy LEA, in June 2024.

“I am a mother of five, four adults pursuing their own careers and with one attending primary school.

I spent my adult life caring for the elderly and returned to college to complete a 'BA Degree in Social Care'. I now work with young people in state care, and adults with intellectual disabilities.

“As most of you who know me will know, I'm a long-time campaigner for mental health services and fundraiser for voluntary suicide prevention and counselling services that are over stretched due to the lack of essential state services.

“I also volunteer for a local Blood Bikes group which plays a pivotal role in creating links between hospitals and service users.

“I am passionate about improving people’s lives and understand the struggles getting basic services.

“Some points I will be paying close attention to, as I believe they are fundamental aspects that affect people's lives on a daily basis: * More social and affordable housing and lower rents * Rural and urban regeneration across the district * Supports and incentives for local small and medium size businesses * Improved access and supports for adult and children’s mental health services * Road safety/traffic management improvements and road repairs.

“The Enniscorthy LEA Urban/Rural is part of a county that has been left lacking in supports, investments and development for far too long. I believe that in the June 2024 election it gives you, the people of the Enniscorthy area, the opportunity to make that change within local government and elect the people who know the daily struggles, who are on the ground seeing what real life is like, and what people really need to help improve their daily living.

“To make a change we must change what we've always done. With your support I will be a strong voice on Enniscorthy Municipal District Council and on Wexford Co. Council. I am here to support All the People Equally, not just for today but for the future.”

Tel: 086 2146583. Email: colette.nolan32@gmail.com n

SF select its candidates for local elections Co. Wexford Sinn Féin has announced Kayley Goodison as its Local Election candidate for the New Ross area for June 2024.

Ms Goodison says she wants to bring a new, vibrant and empathetic voice to New Ross if she is elected. Ms Goodison, a proud Irish Republican and a Sinn Féin activist since her teens, has lived and worked in New Ross for the majority of her adult life.

Sinn Féin candidate for New Ross, Kayley Goodison

Ms Goodison says: "I have seen first hand the real issues that have frustrated the community in both urban and rural areas in New Ross, and witnessing these issues have helped me determine my main priorities if I were to be elected for the New Ross area in the upcoming election.” n

Above left: Lorraine Smyth who will be joining Cllrs Davy Hynes and Tom Forde on the Sinn Féin ticket for the Wexford Borough District local election later this year.

Above right: AoifeRose O’Brien, the Sinn Féin candidate for the Rosslare Local Electoral Area.

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Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan is officially launched

Wexford County Council staff and Enniscorthy Municipal District Councillors at the official launch of the Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan at Enniscorthy Castle on 1st February 2024.

The Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan was officially launched at a ceremony in Enniscorthy Castle on 1st February 2024.

The Plan has been put together by Wexford County Council working with Loci Consultants and a team made up of: one Enniscorthy Councillor, the Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager, Wexford Co. Council’s Town Regeneration Officer, and representatives of the following: Enniscorthy & District Chamber, local traders, Visit Wexford, Enniscorthy Community

Forum, Gardaí, Wexford Local Development, industry, youth, culture, and sports.

You can read the full plan here: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/sites/default/files/content/FinalEnniscorthyTCFPlanDEC23.pdf. Copies are available in the Council offices on Market Square and in Enniscorthy Library.

We have included extensive coverage of this plan in previous issues and also on our Facebook page, and will carry a further report in our March issue. n

L-R: 1. Niall Byrne (Enniscorthy Chamber) and Minister James Browne TD. 2. Cllr John O’Rourke (Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District).

3. CEO of Wexford County Council, Tom Enright. 4. Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan, Cllr Cathal Byrme, Carolyne Godkin (Wexford County Council).

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SlaNey NewS Many of the town’s retailers have serious reservations about some aspects of the Plan and in particular the loss of on-street car-parking spaces and the negative impact this will have on shoppers and visitors to the town.

L-R: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Mick McCormack (Town Regeneration Officer), Cllr Aidan Browne, Mico Hassett (Manager Enniscorthy Castle and 1798 Centre).

In the words of one prominent retailer: "Parking is the most controversial element of the plan and is causing frustration, confusion, worry and stress, to the citizens of the town.... Currently there are 130 on-street parking spaces in the area proposed for redevelopment in this plan [Enniscorthy town centre]. If it is implemented, 104 of these car parking spaces will be removed, leaving 26 standard car parking spaces available for ultra-convenient parking. An 80% loss of on-street parking."

Another retailer says, "The plan mentions parking located ten minutes from the town. This is not realistic accessibility for older people. Neither is a ten-minute walk going to be embraced by people on a wet and windy day… they will simply go elsewhere where they feel they are catered for better."

Many retailers would like to see any loss of on-street parking being compensated by e.g. an additional upper level of parking at the Old Dunnes carpark, underground parking at the Murphy Floods site, and an overhead walkway from Dunnes Stores (with its underutilised parking on the upper floors) linking to the Market Square. n

Cllr Aidan Browne, Claire Lawless (Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager), Cllr Jackser Owens.

Cllr Jackser Owens, Conor Norton (Loci Consultants), Mick McCormack (Town Regeneration Officer).

Above and below: Niall Byrne of NMB Architects Ltd with Michael Dempsey (President of Enniscorthy Chamber) and some local retailers on a walk around Enniscorthy on 26th January to look at what’s proposed in the Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan and how any issues can be addressed.

Sarah Kelly, Liz Hore (Wexford Co. Council), Clare Ryan (Wexford Local Development).

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See more photos pages 22-23

Official sod-turning for the ‘Building Bellefield’ project Rapparees Starlights GAA, Wexford County Council, and Enniscorthy Municipal District held a sod-turning event at Bellefield GAA grounds on 6th February 2024 to celebrate a significant privatepublic-community investment programme that will transform the community and sporting facilities on offer there.

An ambitious four-phase project will see investment in new facilities for the community of Enniscorthy over the coming years. The vision is to create a ‘Flagship Sports and Community Facility’ at world class standard in the heart of Enniscorthy, promoting the health and wellbeing of the wider community in a safe and inclusive environment.

The overall project will see investment of over €1.5 million, with collaboration from the local community and the Rapparees Starlights Finance Committee raising four hundred thousand euros; Wexford County Council providing funds of four hundred thousand euros also, and a greatly appreciated donation from Mr Sam McCauley of six hundred thousand euros.

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The first phase, which is approaching completion, includes the development of two new pitches, fencing and associated drainage works, main infrastructure for a sensory garden, as well as a community walking track complete with lighting.

Major ESB works were required with the removal of six poles and cables brought underground to a newly installed ESB pillar station. Funding for this phase was provided by a philanthropic donation from local businessman and long-time club member, Mr. Sam McCauley, which also sees the Park being renamed McCauley Bellefield Park.

The second phase of the project, which is commencing February 2024, is a publiccommunity partnership and will include the development of a new statement entrance for the Club, together with 25 new public carparking spaces, new footpath with bollards, fencing, public lighting and signage. A new pedestrian crossing on the Bellefield Road will be delivered as part of phase two, as well as a new pocket garden with seating and a playground for young children. Funding for this second

phase will be from the Rapparees Starlights Club in association with Wexford County Council.

It is anticipated that the works for phase 1 and 2 will complete by Summer 2024.

The proposed Phase 3 will see further improvements in the sporting facilities on offer, with an artificial playing surface, hurling wall and lighting planned. The club will seek funding for this phase via the Sports Capital Programme through the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.

The final phase of the project will be focused on activation and animation – generating events and activities to attract members of the community to use the facilities and bring the health and wellbeing benefits to fruition.

The project manager, Mr. Pat Quigley, said this development ‘in partnership with the Rapparees Starlights Club and Wexford County Council... will provide a state-ofthe-art facility in the heart of Enniscorthy that promotes the health and well-being of the whole community.’ n

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A night with Ireland legend John Aldridge The Wexford Republic of Ireland Soccer Supporters Club (RISSC) has announced that the Irish football legend John Aldridge will be the guest of honour in The Bailey in Enniscorthy on 16th February to help celebrate the club’s 10th anniversary and it promises to be a funfilled night.

John will be signing autographs and posing for photos before a Q&A hosted by Will O’Callaghan from Off the Ball.

A signed Ireland jersey from the current squad will be up for raffle on the night along with other great prizes.

The night will also be a charity fundraiser for Slaney Search & Rescue who the club are delighted to support for all the trojan volunteer work they do.

More details on the club’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/wexrissc n

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Interested in using your Irish?

Whatever your ability to speak Irish, you are very welcome to The Thatch in Kiltealy every Thursday, 8pm to 9.30pm, until the end of March.

D’aontaigh an grúpa teacht le chéile gach Déardaoin go dtí deireadh mhí an Mhárta. Beidh seisiún amhránaíochta ar an oíche dheireanach. n

Page 18 - 7th February 2024

Irish speaking group in The Thatch, Kiltealy.

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SlaNey SlaNeyNewS ad Enniscorthy Tidy Towns held its Annual Awards function on 31st January 2024 in the Riverside Park Hotel. Prizes were awarded for Gardens, Public Buildings, Industrial Buildings, Shop Fronts, Most Improved Premises, Window Boxes and Hanging Baskets.

It is always an inspiring and joyous occasion to witness the cheerful exuberance of all the prizewinners which makes it all so worthwhile for the organisers of the event. And there is also the obvious improvement in the standard and variety of entries as the years go by.

The Chairperson, Jonathon Hughes, welcomed all to the function. He said, “Major credit is due to all the people who, year after year, go to the trouble of presenting their gardens to best advantage and all who keep their homes and business premises spick and span. They are a credit to Enniscorthy, and they have contributed enormously to the general improvement of the town over the past few years which have led to an increase in our annual marks in the National Tidy Town Competition, and in 2024 we received the Silver Medal for the first time ever.”

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Enniscorthy Tidy Towns Awards Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy 31st January 2024 The Chairperson said that the Committee was pleased with the increase in the number of business premises that had window boxes and hanging baskets displayed this year and he hoped that more will get involved next year. With the advent of self-watering systems, it is easier to manage the flowers and keep them blooming brightly. He praised all involved with the profusion of blooms all over the town this year. He thanked his colleagues on the Tidy Towns Committee, Volunteers who help throughout the year, Council Staff, and all the Social Employment workers. A lot of work is involved in planting all the flowers and the continuous watering of them is never ending.

He mentioned that the committee have added a new award this year for industrial

premises forecourts in a bid to encourage businesses to keep their places tidy.

Cllr John O’Rourke, Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, congratulated all the award winners on their contribution to keeping Enniscorthy beautiful. He commended the Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group for their hard work and efforts in their litter-picking endeavours, and congratulated them on receiving the Silver Medal Award in 2023. He made special mention of Sean Doyle, treasurer of Enniscorthy Tidy Towns and a member and stalwart of the group since its inception, who was present at the awards. Finally, he mentioned that the focus should be on getting young people to become more conscious of the environment and get them involved and aware of the effects of litter.

SlaNey NewS While litter remains the serious perennial problem for the town, the group says one can now also add the proliferation of dog fouling on our footpaths and open spaces. Despite all the laws that have been passed during recent years, the littering and the fouling of our streets continues without letup or hindrance.

AWARDS WERE PRESENTED TO: Slaney View Park Residents Association (Previous Category Winner).

Beech Avenue (Community Area Award).

Glamour Boutique (Shopfront).

Power Plant Hire (Forecourt Award).

Enniscorthy Enterprise Centre (Industrial Premises).

Kavanagh’s Giftware (Most Improved Premises).

Bridie O’Connor, Spring Valley (Endeavour Award & Highly Commended Front Garden).

Bridge Meadows (Housing Estate).

Hendricks Tyres (Business Premises).

Margaret Doyle, Gort na Silini (Front Garden – Large).

Bernie Colgan (Front Garden – Medium/Small).

Anne Hendrick (Highly Commended Front Garden – Medium/Small).

St Anthony’s, Castle Hill (Special Adjudicators Award).

Anne Connolly (Adjudicators Award).

Reid’s Off Licence (Window Boxes & Hanging Baskets).

Mohommed Munir Hossain (Highly Commended Window Boxes & Hanging Baskets). n

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Official sod-turning for the ‘Building Bellefield’ project The official sod-turning for the ‘Building Bellefield’ project at Bellefield, Enniscorthy, took place on 6th February 2024.

L-R: Minister James Browne TD, Sam McCauley, Tom Enright (CEO, Wexford Co. Council), Pat Quigley (Project Manager for Rapparees Starlights club). Pic: Maria Nolan.

The project, to be done over four phases, includes two new full-size, sand-based pitches, a community walking track, a hurling wall, astropitch, large car park, sensory garden, new toilets, floodlighting, upgraded seating on main pitch, coffee dock, youth facility and an impressive new entrance from the Bellefield Road. At that entrance, Wexford Co. Council is constructing a small car-park, a pocket garden with seating, and playground.

Above: Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan, Cllr Aidan Browne, Edel Nolan (Enniscorthy Municipal District).

Below: Claire Lawless (Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager), Neil Dempsey (Enniscorthy Municipal District Engineer).

Funding for the €1.5m project is coming from a gift of €600,000 from Sam McCauley, government and Wexford Co. Council funding, and a huge fundraising effort by the Rapparees Starlights Club itself.

When complete, the project will be a flagship, world-class community facility.

L-R: Carolyne Godkin (Wexford Co. Council), Cllr BarbaraAnne Murphy, Dan Walsh (journalist/broadcaster).

See more details on page 16. n Left: L-R: Tom Enright (CEO, Wexford Co. Council), Pat Quigley (Project Manager), Sam McCauley, Gary Flood (contractor), Ger McVeigh (Club Chairman), Cllr John O’Rourke and his niece Caoimhe O’Rourke (club member).

Right: Graphics giving a flavour of the overall development and the new entrance/ car-park/ playground/ pocket garden.

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Above left: Maria Nolan with Sam McCauley. Above centre: Ger McVeigh (Rapparees/Starlights Club Chairman) with Carolyne Godkin (Wexford Co. Council). Above right: Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan, Tom Enright (CEO, Wexford Co. Council). Below left: Ger McVeigh, Cllr John O’Rourke and Caoimhe O’Rourke doing the digging.

Below: Minister James Browne TD, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy and Cllr Aidan Browne. Pics: Maria Nolan.

Below: Martin Sweeney (design team), Gary Flood (contractor), Brian Kehoe (Rapparees Starlights), Stephen Murphy (Coiste Chairman), Ger McVeigh (Club Chairman). Pic: Maria Nolan.

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For You, from WWETB – The Hub will continue to May ‘24 Digital Help Hub in Wexford, Enniscorthy and Bunclody, contact 089 9843815 Does technology confuse you?

Or do you know someone who struggles with so many services moving online.

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

If so, go along to the Digital Help Hub! This pop-up service continues in three Wexford libraries on selected Thursdays from November 2023 until May 2024.

The Digital Help Hub is free, confidential and one to one.

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

The Digital Help Hub is an initiative of the ALL Adult Literacy for Life national strategy. WWETB, WLD, and Wexford

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

County Council Library Service have worked together to bring this initiative to County Wexford. Everyone hopes that it will be useful for anyone struggling with technology!

The Digital Help Hub visits Wexford, Enniscorthy and Bunclody libraries on various Thursday mornings from 10.30am to 2.30pm, on the dates shown below.

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

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St John’s Community Activity Garden will be open to all

Enniscorthy Municipal District proposes to develop a site on the St John’s Hospital grounds at Munster Hill to provide a number of key amenities for Enniscorthy town including an activity garden with outdoor amphitheatre/ performance space, children’s playground/activity space and gardens, while further integrating St. John’s into the community.

There will be a nature-based space with picnic seating, raised planted beds, formal garden spaces and quiet seating areas.

The new boundaries to the park will be formed with native species hedgerow, to promote biodiversity.

With regards to car-parking, it is proposed to utilise the existing parking facilities within the St. John’s Campus.

The proposed amphitheatre and performance space will not only offer much needed outdoor facilities to both the St. John’s Campus and the wider Enniscorthy community but will also offer an opportunity to create a visually interesting public realm space. The use of natural stone, in harmony with the existing stone boundary wall, is intended to ensure the amphitheatre sits comfortably alongside the wall and the original stone building of St. John’s Hospital. The addition of compos-

ite timber seating is designed to further ground the amphitheatre into its garden surroundings.

Connection to the services provided within the St. John’s Community Hospital Campus is a central aim of the proposed new Activity Garden. The intention is to incorporate spaces which can cater for activities and therapies that currently take place indoors to be facilitated outdoors when weather permits to enhance the wellbeing of patients.

It is the intention to develop, and put in place, a nature-focused landscaping plan, which will contribute to biodiversity.

Nature-orientated landscaping and features for wildlife is intended to improve climate resilience. The focus on urban biodiversity aims to add character and quality of place. Evidence shows that direct experiences of nature can enhance one’s sense of wellbeing and benefit physical and mental health.

The site is owned by the HSE with Wexford Co. Council entering into a lease with the HSE for 15 years duration after which the lease options will be reviewed.

The new St John’s Community Activity Garden will be open to all and the project will now go to detailed design stage before going to tender. n

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Malcolm opts to look northwards SENATOR MALCOLM BYRNE HAS JUST ANNOUNCED HIS INTENTION TO SEEK TO RUN AS A CANDIDATE IN THE NEW WICKLOW–WEXFORD CONSTITUENCY IN THE NEXT GENERAL ELECTION WHICH COULD OCCUR LATER THIS YEAR... HE WILL NOT BE SEEKING TO CONTEST THE EUROPEAN ELECTION...

Fianna Fáil convention on this occasion.

He concluded: “I will be supporting Billy Kelleher, MEP, who has done an excellent job, and whomever is chosen as his running mate.”

Senator Byrne is the Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science.

A graduate in Law, in Arbitration and in Governance, he worked as Head of Communications and Public Affairs with the Higher Education Authority before his election to the Oireachtas. He previously worked with Chambers Ireland, as Commercial Manager with MyHome.ie, as Director of Screen Producers Ireland and as Chief Executive of Community Games. He has also completed 37 marathons.

Senator Malcolm Byrne said: “I am very grateful to members of the party who nominated me to contest the European election but I intend to concentrate on trying to win a Dáil seat in the new North Wexford and South Wicklow area. I believe that I have worked as an effective national legislator over the last few years and would love to represent the new constituency in the Dáil after the next election.”

Senator Byrne is from Gorey while his mother comes from Arklow and he has extensive connections across both North Wexford and South Wicklow.

He added: “I have spent my life involved in organisations across our community and know the issues affecting urban and rural areas through listening to people and advocating on their behalf. If fortunate to be

Senator Malcolm Byrne

nominated to contest the General Election, I look forward to the campaign.”

Senator Byrne polled very well in the 2019 European Election in the Ireland South constituency but will not contest the

Wexford buildings to be converted for community use Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has confirmed that government funding will assist with the purchase and redevelopment of two County Wexford buildings.

is keen to “bring vacant and derelict

The former post office in Ballyhogue will be converted into a multi-purpose community space. Meanwhile the old Credit Union building in Gorey will be converted into a multi-purpose community space with strong connections with Gorey Family Resource Centre.

generations to come.

Commenting on the funding, Minister Browne explained that the government

continued development over the

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properties back into use in our town and village centres. These two buildings in Ballyhogue and Gorey will be restored to community use, which will have great benefit for communities for

“I want to commend the local community organisations in Ballyhogue and Gorey who are pivotal in ensuring that these properties were purchased with support from government funding and I look forward to seeing these projects’ coming months." n

Malcolm becomes the first candidate for any party to seek a nomination in the new Wicklow-Wexford constituency, which was formed as part of the Electoral Commission’s constituency review last year. The new three-seat constituency comprises large areas of South Wicklow, including Arklow, and of North Wexford, including Gorey. n

Leonie honoured at Wexford awards Well known proprietor of Grants Pharmacy, Leonie Grant, was among the award recipients at the recent Wexford Borough District Civic Awards for sport held at County Hall, Wexford, 26th January, 2024. n

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Sustainable

Enniscorthy The local Sustainable Enniscorthy group is supporting two new sewing workshops this month.

A monthly column

Support Sustainable Enniscorthy by following us on Facebook or Instagram. www.sustainableenniscorthy.com Contact us to get involved!

Sustainable Enniscorthy is supporting two new sewing workshops which will run in Enniscorthy’s Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre this February, led by The Seamless Seamstress.

These beginners’ workshops on ‘Know your Machine’ and ‘Basic Alterations’ are designed to help participants to get to grips with their sewing machines and learn basic machining and alteration skills. Sign up for one or both of the workshops and start on a sewing journey of discovery, fun and up-skilling.

A recent EPA survey found that 47% of people would like to repair clothes but don’t have the skills to do it – now is your chance to learn!

Repairing clothes supports a circular economy – clothes are used more often and for longer, which allows the value of all the resources that go into making the textiles and clothing to be captured fully.

Participants will recognise the importance of maintaining their clothes and homewares, reducing waste, saving money and gaining valuable skills that will bring satisfaction as well as the opportunity to meet with like-minded creative people.

For full details, dates, times, costs and booking, please see the accompanying graphics. Places are limited so register now!

If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or be kept informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

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

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Templeshannon Community Centre

Keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/TempleshannonCo mmunityandChildcareCentre Enniscorthy Eastside Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/320813591 438762 Enniscorthy East Community Development: https://www.facebook.com/EEastCommunity

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Pettitt’s supporting Enniscorthy Tidy Towns Enniscorthy Tidy Towns continued its 'Bag It - Bin It' dog fouling campaign at the beginning of this month at Vinegar Hill.

Accompanied by Wexford County Council Environment Section staff, the local dog warden, and ten pupils from St. Senan's Primary School Green-Schools Committe, they raised awareness of this huge problem on Vinegar Hill identifying 44 dog poops on Vinegar Hill Lane alone. Shame on all those dog owners!

The group sprayed signs on the various paths, handed out dogpoo bags, and highlighted the existence of three dog-poo bins on the Hill. n

Above: Jonathon Hughes, Chairman of Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, receiving over 20 brand new hi-vis vests from Florentina Craciun of Pettitt’s.

Below: Town heroes – some Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers.

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Wexford’s blobs of affluent b Pobal HP map of yellow disad Most of County Wexford is disadvantaged. The county that has a reputation for sunshine, growth and prosperity, and has vast human and natural resources, is categorised on the new (2022) edition of the Government’s Pobal HP Deprivation index map, as ‘marginally below average’.

Pobal say the gap between most disadvantaged and national average has increased with persistent disadvantage in many communities.

There are only a handful of affluent or wealthy areas, which are coloured blue, on a Pobal landscape map of Wexford coloured mostly in the yellow or brown of disadvantage.

On the national Index, the county is at minus 4.09 ( -4.09). It’s only slightly better than in 2016 when the county was at minus 4.81 ( -4.81) and in 2011, when it was at minus 5.81 ( -5.81). In 2006, the county was at a slightly better index of minus 3.95 ( -3.95).

ONLY CO. DONEGAL AND CO. LONGFORD ARE WORSE OFF Only Longford at minus 5.33 (-5.33) and Donegal at minus 5.60 (-5.60) both of which have been disadvantaged for generations, are worse off than Wexford.

The objective is to get back to pre-2006 levels. That was before the economic recession and depression of 2008 and 2009.

CLUSTER OF AFFLUENT AREAS AROUND WEXFORD TOWN There is a cluster of affluent areas around Affluent: Ballinastragh.

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Wexford town, there is one blue area above Castlebridge, one between Blackwater and Kilmuckridge, one east of Enniscorthy town, two at Courtown, one at St Helen’s below Rosslare Harbour, one at Old Ross and one near Gorey. Contrast those with numerous big blue areas of affluence next door in Co. Waterford and Co. Kilkenny.

The Pobal HP Index, named after its originators Haase and Pratschke, is produced every five years. The most recent was published before Christmas. It reflects the situation at the previous year of 2022. It is out just in time on the eve of a slew of elections in 2024, for people to reflect and consider what can be done to develop disadvantaged areas. It will give clarity.

Indicators used in producing the Index are in three categories, demographic, social class and labour market. They further include indicators of population change, age dependency, third level education, type of profession, unemployment rate, and persons per room. It’s used by Government departments, the HSE, State agencies and researchers, media and the public.

Although the CSO do not publish household disposable income at district level, which would be useful to show the relation between the index and income and poverty in each district, the Pobal Index for Co. Wexford will greatly answer why so many of the 164,000 people in the county are struggling in debt, why so many businesses are ‘hanging on by a thread’, why

so many start-ups are folding within a few years and why half of the young people are leaving forever.

It also underlines the urgency to bring big FDI businesses that have vast supernormal profits, to allow employees to earn well above the minimum wage.

The user-friendly Pobal HP map (Pobal.ie) gives a range of description from ‘Very Affluent’ – a bright blue flag, ‘Affluent’ – a light blue flag, ‘Marginally Above Average’ – yellow, ‘Marginally Below Average’ – a light yellow, ‘Disadvantaged ’– a brighter yellow, ‘Very Disadvantaged’ – orange and ‘Extremely Disadvantaged’ – brown.

On the legends on the map revealed by hovering over areas and clicking once, are stats on population, age dependency, lone parent ratio, education and unemployment rates for males and females and so on.

BALLYBOGGAN DISTRICT IN WEXFORD TOWN SUBURB IS ‘VERY AFFLUENT’ Even the most affluent part of County Wexford has shrunk greatly in size within five years according to the map. In 2006, Ardcandrisk, Barntown, Newtown, Park, Newbay, Ballymorris, Hayestown Great, Lus Mór and Coolballow were a massive area of blue around Wexford town on the map indicating Affluent. Today, in a much slimmer area, the most affluent area in the county is the nearby district of Ballyboggan which has an index of plus 26.02. It’s the only district in the county to be categorised as ‘Very Affluent’.

An area at Vinegar Hill is categori

SlaNey NewS In sharp contrast, Bunclody (Newtownbarry) at minus 17.96 (-17.96) is disadvantaged and Ferns at minus 10.40 (-10.41) is disadvantaged. Part of Newtownbarry is extremely disadvantaged at minus 33.35 (-33.35).

lue on dvantage Beside Ballyboggan, the district of Coill Aoibhinn / Carrick at plus 12.23 (+12.23) is among a handful of others to be categorised as affluent. Bunclody, Curracloe, The Raven and Ballineskar were affluent back in 2006, but not now.

The affluent areas of Ballyboggan and Coill Aoibhinn/Carrick are in a part of Wexford town suburbs that stretches along by the Newtown Road (R769), in the shadow of Carricklawn, the County Council Headquarters, to the Maldron Hotel, not far from where the N11 and the N25 intersect.

Wexford town southside has one other affluent district. It’s at Ard na gCuain, Hillview, Whiterock South /Ard Uisce which at plus 11.91 (+11.91) on the index is categorised as affluent.

Of course, within Wexford town are areas categorised as disadvantaged. These include Ferndale, Wolf Tone Villas and beside Maudlintown are Antelope Road/ Gulbar Road and Hantoon Road at a depressing minus 33.85 (-33.85).

Heading north across the Wexford Bridge, Ardcavan small area at Crosstown is affluent at plus 12.72 (+12.72).

Then north of Castlebridge, also called Ardcavan, but comprising the townlands of Glascanny, Mullinagower, Kilcorral, Ballyhow Middle and Ballyhow Lower, is affluent at plus 10.38 (+10.38).

PARTS OF SOME TOWNS AND VILLAGES ARE DESCRIBED AS ‘EXTREMELY DISADVANTAGED’

East of Enniscorthy town, in Ballyhuskard electoral district comprising the townlands of Annaghfin, Ballymoty Beg, Ballyhuskard, Coolgarrow, and Garrantrowlan, at an index of plus 10.71 (+10.71), is one of the few affluent districts in the county. However, within Enniscorthy town are areas ranging from a minus 29 (-29) disadvantage, to an area at Vinegar Hill categorised as extremely disadvantaged at an index of minus 31.31 (-31.31).

Along the east coast are a number of affluent districts. Starting south at St Helen’s, a district between Lady’s Island and Rosslare, comprising Harristown, Ballycronigan, Newhouses, Ballyreilly, Ballytrent, Hilltown, Harristown, and Ballywitch townlands, is affluent at plus 12.81 (+12.81).

Northwards to Ballyvaldon district, near Blackwater encompassing Killincooley Mor and Killincooley Beg, Ballinamora and Tomnaberna townlands, it’s at an index of plus 12.09 (+12.09).

Courtown south in the townland of Seafield has an index at plus 11.05 (+11.05) meaning it’s affluent, and Courtown north, Tara Hill and Cronellard, where the index at plus 12.81 (+12.81), also means that area is affluent.

Inland to Gorey/ Kilinerin area comprising Ballynestragh area of Lackan, Bolacrean, Tinnashsinnagh, Barnland, Ballinastragh, Clonsilla West, and Mullaunfin townlands, it’s at plus 10.01 (+10.01) and therefore, also affluent.

The town of New Ross, New Ross Town Urban, at minus 29.61 (-29.61) is disadvantaged to very disadvantaged.

But the district of Old Ross, comprising Old Ross, Spring Park, Donanore or Goldentown, Bushpark, Begerin Lloyd, Heath Park, only a few kilometres to the east, has an index of plus 10.25 (+10.25), making it affluent.

The villages of good population in the mid to south of the county are, in contrast, disadvantaged. They include: Clonroche, minus 23.92 (-23.92) is disadvantaged, Adamstown minus 16.33 (-16.33), is disadvantaged, and Newbawn, minus 13.60 (-13.60), is disadvantaged. Taghmon is disadvantaged at minus 12.47 (-12.47) while a small part of Taghmon is extremely disadvantaged at a depressing minus 33.97 (-33.97).

The map shows that the entire county of Wexford is a profound case of poverty amidst plenty and that there is huge opportunity to develop now that the M11 has brought the centre of the county at Enniscorthy closer to Dublin and the offshore wind energy from Rosslare is ready to be exploited. Interestingly, people we spoke with from disadvantaged areas, said they don’t feel disadvantaged and people from affluent areas don’t feel that well-off.

Most politicians, organisation leaders, planners and advocates in Dublin and in Wexford will ponder on how to get Co. Wexford, the so-called Model County, from below average to above average. A starting point might be to ask how to get from yellow and brown on the Pobal HP Deprivation Indices map to the colour blue of affluence before the next Pobal map comes out in five years’ time.

– M.F.

ised as extremely disadvantaged.

Pic: Dee O’Leary

Affluent: Coill Aoibhinn Wexford

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Enniscorthy Credit Union Schools Quiz

28th January 2024, Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorth Enniscorthy Credit Union was delighted to host the Credit Union Schools Quiz again this year and that so many schools answered the call to ‘get their brains in gear’ for this year’s quiz. It was held on Sunday 28th January 2024 in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.

Questions covered a wide range of topics including geography, history, music, literature and sport, and the school children in the Wexford area rose to the challenge.

It was wonderful to see so many schools represented on the day, there were 30 schools, with 56 teams, 224 pupils in total. The children were centre stage on the day as the quizmaster Padraig Hall expertly led them through the quiz.

There were two groups doing battle, so to speak – Competition A was for the under 11-year-old pupils and Competition B was for the 11- to 13-year-old pupils. The winning teams in each competition received trophies and

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cash prizes, with the school also collecting a trophy and a cash prize. The runners up won cash prizes as well as their schools receiving a cash prize.

The Under 11 winners were 1st Place: Glenbrien NS; 2nd Place: Scoil Naomh Maodhóg Ferns. The Under 13 winners were 1st Place: St Patrick’s NS, Crossabeg; 2nd Place: Kilrane NS. The winners and runners up will go forward to the next stage at the Riverside Park Hotel on Sunday March 3rd at 2pm.

The winning teams from Stage 2 will then make it through to the Grand Final at the RDS, Dublin, on April 7th, 2024.

Here they will be pitted in a nerve-wracking battle of wits against other formidable teams of four. All teams will have their eye on the prize. The winning teams at the national finals will receive €1,250 per school, with the runner-up teams in each category receiving €750 for their schools, adding up to a fantastic prize fund of €4,000. n

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Top: Under 11 winners from Glenbrien N.S. Above: Under 13 winners from St Patrick’s N.S., Crossabeg.

Below left: Under 11 Runners-Up from Scoil Naomh Maodhóg, Ferns. Below right: Under 13 Runners-Up from Kilrane N.S. All pictured with Tommy Tyrrell, Chairperson of Enniscorthy Credit Union.

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Agreement signed worth u On 19th December 2023, Wexford Co. Council (WCC) and Wexford Local Development (WLD) signed a “Framework Agreement” worth up to €15.5 million for “Social Inclusion and Related Services” over the next 5 years.

The Framework Agreement will facilitate the awarding of social inclusion contracts to Wexford Local Development within the 5-year period of the agreement and includes an initial Call-Off Contract relating to the national “Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme” (SICAP) 2024 – 2028 worth just over €10m.

SICAP is currently delivered by Wexford Local Development through a team of professional community workers who work alongside local communities in collaboration with a number of different agencies with a focus on targeting those who are most disadvantaged in Irish society. It is a targeted, holistic programme for those groups and individuals who are most disadvantaged and less likely to connect with mainstream services.

Following a procurement process, WLD has been successful in securing the contract for the delivery of the programme again

for the next five years. The programme has been active in County Wexford for a number of years, and this is the third iteration of SICAP. Target groups are pre-defined nationally and include those who experience multiple inequalities namely: People living in disadvantaged communities; People impacted by educational disadvantage; People living in jobless households or households where the primary income source is low-paid and/or precarious; People who are longterm unemployed; People with a criminal history; Refugees; International Protection Applicants; People with disabilities; Heads of one-parent families; Travellers and Roma.

Wexford Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) has also chosen three “Local Priority Target Groups” for a specific focus for the duration of this new programme which are:  People living in disadvantaged communities  People impacted by educational disadvantage  Travellers Promotion of climate justice, with a focus on facilitating a just and equitable transition to a greener economy and society, will also be a horizontal theme in the new programme.

Back row L-R: Clare Ryan, Project Manager, WLD; Brian Kehoe, CEO, WLD; Carolyne Godkin, Director of Services, WCC. Front row L-R: Michael Wall, Chairperson, WLD; Cllr John Fleming, Cathaoirleach, WCC; Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach, Wexford LCDC.

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up to €15.5m Speaking at the signing of the programme, Cllr. Aidan Browne said, “As Chairman of the LCDC, I look forward to the continued collaboration between Wexford LCDC and Wexford Local Development, in delivering this key inclusion programme across County Wexford.”

Cllr. John Fleming, Chairman of WCC, said, “I’m delighted to see this level of resources being allocated to the county to ensure social inclusion continues to be delivered to a high standard to those areas, communities and individuals where their need is highest. Wexford continues to experience significant deprivation in specific areas and programmes such as SICAP ensure that every effort is made to reach those most in need of additional supports.”

Green Paper on Disability Reform Petition

Carolyne Godkin, Director of Services with responsibility for Community Development, added, “We are delighted to continue this relationship with Wexford Local Development for the delivery of these important services to the county. WLD are highly experienced in the area of social inclusion. SICAP is making a real difference to the lives of disadvantaged people and communities in Co. Wexford. Building on the strong foundations already in place, this new programme will ensure continuity of community-based supports where it’s needed most.”

Programmes Manager with Wexford Local Development Clare Ryan spoke of the vital importance of SICAP in addressing inequality and improving outcomes for the most disadvantaged groups and individuals in the county. “Equality is about securing equality of opportunity, equality of participation and equality of outcome. What this contract effectively means is that it enables us to provide professional community workers on the ground who directly connect and work alongside those communities most marginalised and impacted by poverty and inequality.”

Adding to Ms. Ryan’s comments, the CEO of Wexford Local Development Brian Kehoe said, “We are working to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion at a local level, in practical ways; helping those in need to find work or to upskill, assisting many with accessing a tailored personal development course or gaining access to workplace skills or educational opportunities. SICAP helps to connect to those who are struggling, helping to point them towards a pathway of opportunities that might otherwise be missed or out of reach.

Over the last 5 years through the current SICAP programme we have provided tailored supports to over 5,000 individuals.

Our SICAP team are highly experienced and skilled in developing these connections and building capacity in the heart of local communities across Co. Wexford. We’re delighted to be able to continue this important work over the next five years.”

Dorn Simon, a regular contributor to the Slaney News, has identified “yet another stab in the back for people with disabilities”.

For more information on SICAP visit https://www.wld.ie/social-inclusion-community-activation-programme-sicap/ n

Dorn is asking everyone to please sign the petition at: https://chng.it/WmBh2878ds n

Dorn says, “We are still trying to alert the world to invisible illness, to there being a spectrum of which 'disability' falls under.

“A disability can be across the board of health including mental health, neurological health, emotional health and physical health.

“ALL the above can constitute a disability if there's any condition debilitating enough to stop someone from leading a functional daily life, one that includes work or otherwise.

“One does not necessarily have to be physically disabled or with a brain deficiency to qualify for a disability.”

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Back row (L to R): Luke O’Connor (Ayesa); Dana Stepanceva (Ayesa); AJ Browne (AtkinsReális); Eddie Taaffe (WCC); Paul McEvoy (O (ORHT); Michael Malone (WCC). Front row (L to R): Tom Enright (Chief Executive, Wexford County Council ), Cllr. John Fleming ( Cllr. John Hegarty (Mayor of Borough District of Wexford),Martin Gohery (Ayesa).

Full steam ahead at Trini

Design Team Appointed for next phases of Trini Wexford County Council has appointed Ayesa (formerly ByrneLooby) as the Design and Construction Services provider for the next phases of the Council’s flagship urban regeneration project at Trinity Wharf in Wexford town with works to start on site by quarter 4, 2024.

Trinity Wharf is a phased project. Phase 0 is the foundational phase currently under construction. Phase 0 is integrated with the overall project, focused on providing access and utility connections from the

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existing public realm to the new development. After Phase 0 is complete, the next Phases 1-3 will deliver the main elements of Trinity Wharf.

The transformational project is being funded under ‘Call 2’ of the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) which has been established to part-fund projects aimed at enhancing urban areas to make them more attractive places in which to live, work, visit and invest. The URDF aims to facilitate a greater proportion of residential and commercial devel-

opment, supported by infrastructure, services and amenities, within the existing built-up areas of larger urban settlements.

The 10-acre Trinity Wharf project is central to Wexford County Council’s ambitious plans to attract foreign direct investment and high-quality employment opportunities to County Wexford. With overall project investment estimated at €120 million, including more than €24 million of public investment, the huge regeneration project is central to the long-term regeneration and enhancement of Wexford town and

SlaNey NewS The Council acquired the site in 2016 and prepared a masterplan and preliminary designs for the creation of a high-quality, mixed-use development of modern office space, hotel accommodation, multistorey carparking, a landmark cultural and events multi-use building together with dozens of residential units, a new marina and a boardwalk linking Trinity Wharf to Paul Quay and the Crescent.

ORHT); Ben Mong (AtkinsReális); Gary Smyth (Cathaoirleach, Wexford County County),

ty Wharf ty Wharf project environs by creating a new urban quarter for the south of Wexford town with new links to the Crescent and town centre, as well as improving access to the waterfront.

Speaking at the announcement, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council John Fleming described the appointment as a truly significant milestone in Wexford’s economic development. “Today’s appointment of a renowned engineering and architectural design team means that Wexford County Council’s ambition to develop Trinity Wharf as a multi-use regeneration project of regional scale has taken a significant step in delivering this project for the people of Wexford and further afield. The transformation, regeneration, and redevelopment of Trinity Wharf will have a major positive impact in prosperity and economic activity here in County Wexford and beyond, lifting a central part of the town out of dereliction and providing a first-class public amenity,” said the Cathaoirleach.

Ayesa is the Design Team lead and its delivery partners include AtkinsReális and O'Reilly Hyland Tierney & Associates (ORHT), whose representatives also attended the Contract Signing.

Mayor of Wexford Cllr John Hegarty also welcomed the announcement. “Regeneration projects such as Trinity Wharf are a

rare opportunity to take neglected areas and provide more attractive places in which to live, rest, work, visit, and invest, bringing a benefit to the whole community,” said the Mayor. “This is a major multi-use development project that will greatly enhance the quality of life for people in Wexford while taking an underutilised, remarkably-situated, brownfield site and transforming it to bring opportunity and renewal to an historic part of Wexford town deserving of a new lease of life,” he added.

Chief Executive of Wexford County Council Mr. Tom Enright described Trinity Wharf as one of the most exciting and ambitious economic developments projects ever proposed in the county. “Trinity Wharf is a prime example of how the local authority has integrated a diverse set of economic, social, and recreational needs into a generational opportunity to deliver a progressive and modern multi-use development project that can transform the economic and social landscape of the county,” said Mr. Enright.

Commenting on their appointment, Luke O’Connor, Design & Build Lead for Ayesa, said, "Ayesa, with our delivery partners, is delighted to play a crucial role in the regenerative project for Wexford town.

Beyond designing and constructing sustainable structures, our involvement aims to craft a sustainable legacy for businesses, the town, and its citizens. We take pride in being part of this significant development, working in close partnership with Wexford County Council and all stakeholders to ensure positive impacts for generations to come.” n

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Wexford’s solidarity with Gaza

Taking inspiration from the words of Martin Luther King Jr: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere", the Wexford branch of Amnesty International is holding weekly vigils in solidarity with the people of Gaza, highlighting the sav-

age, brutal and terrifying injustices occurring there every day, remembering all those killed in the Israel–Palestine conflict, calling for a permanent and immediate ceasefire and demanding Israel allow unimpeded urgent medical aid into Gaza.

The vigils take place at 6.30pm every Thursday at Redmond Square in Wexford town. All are invited to attend and show support.

Follow ‘Amnesty International Wexford Group’ on Facebook. n

Above left: Trish Robinson of the Wexford Branch of Amnesty International. Above right: Cllr George Lawlor (left) joins the vigil.

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Acquired Brain Injury cheque presentation The Cullenstown Mermaids are a small group of women who swim or dip in the sea all year round. They would like to thank most sincerely all who took part, helped or contributed in any way towards their Christmas Day swim in Cullenstown in aid of Acquired Brain Injury, Wexford. €1,120 was raised for this worthy cause. n Above: Presentation of cheque from Cullenstown Mermaids Christmas Day Swim for €1,120 to Acquired Brain Injury Ireland, Drinagh, Wexford.

L-R: Andy O’Callaghan, Natasha Sinnott, Karina Browne (receiving the cheque), Irene Delaney, Annette Doran (Cullenstown Mermaids), Tom Hayden, Albert Rochford and Tony Aspel.

Larry Coleman (The Coal Bunker Bar) presenting cheque to Rebecca Keeling of South East Blood Bikes, watched by members of Blood Bikes and tractor run organisers and participants.

Minister for Finance visits Enniscorthy’s GreenTechHQ The Coal Bunker Bar, Drinagh, Wexford, and Wexford Model Steam Engine Club held a recent tractor run which raised €700 for South East Blood Bikes.

Coal Bunker Bar charity tractor run – presentation of cheque 7th February 2024 - Page 39

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Marshalstown school: giving to Ghana The Green Schools Litter and Waste – Global Citizenship work that is undertaken in Marshalstown National School includes a project called ‘Giving to Ghana’.

The school decided recently to recycle and reuse its unwanted school tables, chairs and books in a way that would help the pupils to become global citizens and look afar to reach others in need. The school contacted Crosscause – a charity based in Longford founded

by Conor Hughes, and he was very interested in helping the school. Conor has worked with his team of volunteers on many wonderful projects in various parts of the globe for a number of years.

Conor was delighted to accept the unwanted tables, chairs, school books and some wonderful donations of other items from parents of the Marshalstown school children.

Conor arrived with his van on 26th January and the pupils helped him to pack the van with goods bound for a primary school in Ghana. It was a really special event for the children and it meant so much to them to be able to make a difference in the lives of others who have so little in comparison to what we take for granted each day in Ireland.

Our photos show the happy school community welcoming Conor and helping to pack the van. n

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Top: Students from fifth class. Above: Conor Hughes, Catherine McCarthy and students from fifth. Below left: Conor Hughes, Crosscause, with fifth class.

Below right: Wallis donating a sewing machine!

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Deposit Return Scheme commenced 1st February 2024 1st February 2024 was a significant milestone in Ireland’s battle to increase recycling rates for aluminium cans and plastic bottles. The new, national deposit return scheme launched and it is hoped this will see a reduction in these products which currently blight our beautiful environment.

As per a spokesperson for Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, the group of volunteers is optimistic about this scheme. The majority of litter that volunteers pick up on a weekly basis are aluminium cans and plastic bottles. These items are fully recyclable – a cause of much frustration for the group.

How does the system work?

Those of a certain age will remember the good old days of the glass bottles deposit return scheme, where you could get a few pence back to spend on sweets or a packet of crisps! The new deposit return scheme works in the same way with a more modern Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) system. You will see these reverse vending machines at supermarkets and other shops in your locality.

All Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs) have clear instructions on how drinks containers featuring the ‘Re-turn’ logo are to be inserted into the machine.

When containers are inserted, the machine reads the containers, confirms they are part of the Deposit Return Scheme, and then issues a voucher for the number of containers returned. Returned items are worth 15c-25c each depending on size. Consumers then present this voucher at the till for full refund or against store purchase. There is a dedi-

cated website with information on the scheme – see https://re-turn.ie/

Norway Deposit Return Scheme It is estimated that we consume over 1.7 billion single-use drinks containers in Ireland every year. Our recycling rates (6070%) for these cans and bottles are well below the European norms of 90% where similar deposit return schemes are in place. Norway is the gold standard when it comes to deposit returns – their scheme has been in place for decades. In 2021, more than 1.55 billion containers were returned for recycling equating to 91.5% of all cans sold and approximately 13,000 tonnes of aluminium. For 2021, Norway recycled 611 million plastic containers equating to 92.8% of all plastic bottles sold through the deposit scheme. This equates to 23,000 tonnes of plastic recycled.

Sustainability, Circular Economy and Climate Change While the scheme will require a shift in how and where we recycle, overall the benefits of the scheme will hopefully outweigh the current recycling regime.

Whilst the scheme will take time to bed in, countries where similar schemes are in place see higher recycling rates and lower litter levels which will ultimately benefit Ireland’s environment and economy in the longer term.

Above and below: Images of a Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) in a local supermarket.

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns meets every week with the aim of making Enniscorthy a cleaner and greener town. If you would like to make a difference, contact the group on social media or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com n

Cans and bottles collected by Enniscorthy Tidy Towns

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FLYING THE FLAG FOR CO. WEXFORD AT THE RECENT BT YOUNG SCIENTIST AND TECHNOLOGY EXHIBITION 2024

Abbie Gray and Felicja Davis of FCJ Secondary School, Bunclody, and their project 'Homework – Worthwhile or Worthless? An Investigation into the Usefulness of Homework in Second Level Schools' at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2024 which took place last month in the RDS, Dublin.

Chloe Vos, Kila Melvin and Virgil Coyle from Gorey Educate Together Secondary School and their project 'Swap Shop’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2024 at the RDS Dublin.

Pictured at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2024 at the RDS Dublin was James Browne TD, Minister of State at Department of Justice with responsibility for International Law, Law Reform and Youth Justice, with students from Bunclody Vocational College, Wexford, Evie Bolger and Kayla Roche, their science teacher, Margaret Brennan, and Arnaod Fine, BT Ireland. Their project was ‘ The well-being of our immigrant and asylum seeking students – is School of Sanctuary the solution?’

Page 42 - 7th February 2024

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A new monthly column by GreenTechHQ We’re starting our news today with a giveaway! It’s your opportunity to WIN a 3-month free hot desk and more with GreenTechHQ. There’s more…

1. 3 Months Free Hot Desk. Boost productivity, collaborate, and thrive in our vibrant community.

AND…..

2. Business Development Sessions: Elevate your strategy with personalised sessions! Gain insights and strategies from industry experts with one-on-one business development sessions, featuring Ed Murphy and Liz McGonigal, seasoned professionals with a wealth of experience.

3. 1 Gigabyte Wi-Fi: Stay connected at lightning speed! Our high-speed, 1-gigabyte Wi-Fi ensures you're always at the forefront of your business operations.

4. Access to Networking Events and Mentors: Expand your network and learn from the best! Attend exclusive networking events and connect with experienced mentors who can guide your entrepreneurial journey.

How to Enter: Scan our QR code and fill out the form!

Now for the boring bit!

Winners will be announced on 1/3/24. The prize is to be redeemed within 2024.

Enter now and take the first step towards success!

If you are passionate about sustainability and think you have an innovative idea to change the world OR know you could add your voice to those who do – this is for you.

The 2050 Sustainability Hackathon with GreenTechHQ powered by NDRC is open to anyone with an interest in sustainability and innovation who wants to get plugged into the start-up ecosystem.

Do you… ●

Have an idea but don’t know where to start?

Want to see your tech idea brought to life in 1 day?

Have no idea but want to get involved in a team?

Want to spend a day with start-ups and entrepreneurs?

Want to meet aspiring entrepreneurs as well as mentors?

Want to learn new entrepreneurial skills?

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

●

Enniscorthy to host Ireland’s first Sustainability Hackathon

●

On Saturday, 9th March at GreenTechHQ in Enniscorthy, GreenTechHQ will host the inaugural 2050 Sustainability Hackathon powered by the NDRC.

●

This is for ALL aspiring entrepreneurs, developers, designers, and those with curious minds to explore and advance their ideas in sustainability innovation. This hackathon is designed to provide you with the teammates, mentorship, and guidance to transform your idea into a real business with positive impact.

Outcome ● Meet & Connect ● Develop an Idea ● Learn From Mentors ● Discover New Trends Start with just an idea, a team, and lots of questions. Finish with a well-developed start-up concept, a diverse and supportive network, and a whole new level of entrepreneurial knowledge.

● ●

REGISTER YOUR INTEREST (You’ll be the first to hear when the applications are open). https://www.ndrc.ie/2050-sustainability-hackathon-withgreentech-hq n –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– See page 121 for more GreenTechHQ news including the South East Green Tech Sustainability MeetUp on Feb 28th and a look back at Liz McGonigal’s talk entitled ‘Traditional, Digital & AI – ever evolving marketing landscape’, at the Enniscorthy & District Chamber Wake Up Wednesday event on 31st January. n

7th February 2024 - Page 43

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Coffee morning for Gaza

Coffee Morning in aid of Gaza, 23rd January 2024, Our Lady’s Island Community Coffee Shop Above left: Enjoying his coffee was Brendan O’Callaghlan. Above centre: Marie O’Neill and Val Kearns. Above right: Tom Sinnott.

Below left: Kitty Griffin, Frances and Pat Russell, and Helen Pierce. Below right: Anne Scallan, Bernie Burke, Patricia Rooney and Patricia Murphy.

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Welcome funding Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has confirmed that the Wexford Rape Crisis Centre and the Wexford Women’s Refuge will both benefit from the recent allocation of Victims of Crime funding. €70,784.23 is being allocated to the Wexford Rape Crisis Centre while the Wexford Women’s Refuge will benefit from a grant worth €22,763.

Outlining the rationale for the grant, Minister Browne noted that, “The Department of Justice has provided these grants in response to how these County Wexford services are meeting increased demand coinciding with the government’s Victims of Crime and Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence (DSGBV) awareness raising campaigns. These grants are being allocated while construction works continue to progress related to the development of a new building for the Wexford Women’s Refuge in Maudlintown. I was delighted to announce alongside Ministers Helen McEntee and Darragh O’Brien €5 million for this important project for families who have been subject to domestic violence, in 2022.

“Building on the good work being done by both the Wexford Rape Crisis Centre and Wexford Women’s Refuge, my Department and I have commissioned the launch of a Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence agency, which will bring a whole of government focus to tackling domestic, sexual and gender based violence." n

The search is on!

Sports Active Wexford’s Inclusive Learn to Cycle Programme for children with disabilities will be happening in Enniscorthy in April, costing €25 per child. To book your child’s place, email: anna.flynn@wexfordcoco.ie

HERE

FREE Period Product Locations across County Wexford Did you know that free period products, for those that need them, are available in a range of locations across County Wexford.

Free Products are available in public toilets at the following locations:

The search to find the young artists who will excel in this year’s Texaco Children’s Art Competition has begun. Last year two students from Co. Wexford won prizes in the competition, which is now in its 70th year and widely acknowledged as the longest running arts sponsorship in Ireland.

The closing date for entries is Wednesday, 28th February.

Judging will take place in March with winners to be announced in April.

Location

Address

Eircode

Wexford County Council

County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford,

Y35 WY93

Wexford Library

Mallin St, Ferrybank South, Wexford,

Y35 AY20

Southend Family Resource Centre

Hantoon Rd, Maudlintown, Wexford

Y35 T28A

Enniscorthy Library

Lymington Rd, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford

Y21 AD92

Bunclody Library

Milwood, Carrickduff, Bunclody, Co Wexford

Y21 E970

ARC Family Resource Centre (Formerly known as Raheen FRC)

Raheen, Clonroche, Co. Wexford

Y21 T183

New Ross Library

Barrack Ln, New Ross, Co. Wexford,

Y34 NW56

South West Wexford Family Resource Centre

Ramsgrange, New Ross, Co. Wexford

Y34DP26

Gorey Library

The Avenue, Gorey, Co. Wexford

Y25 WK37

Gorey Family Resource Centre

4 Charlotte Row, Upper Main St, Gorey, Co Wexford

Y25 CV91

Taghmon Family Resource Centre

Joseph St, Poulmarl, Taghmon, Co. Wexford

Y35 WTP3

Products are also available for those from the Traveller or Roma Communities by contacting: • Roma: Mona Fusteac, Roma Health Advocate Support Worker FDYS.086 0570612 • Traveller: Laura Myles, Wexford Traveller Community Health Programme 053 9155864

Details are available at www.texacochildrensart.com or at Texaco service stations throughout the country. n

7th February 2024 - Page 45

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WITH THREATS AND MANIPULATION OF GEO POLITICS, HAS RUSSIA NOW SECURED A FAVOURABLE OUTCOME? One must start from the point that all comments out of Russia either stem from, or have the approval of, the Kremlin. So when you see state media issuing relentless threats and red lines to the West, it is planned to create maximum fear amongst as many nations as possible.

When we hear Russian politicians claim that Canada should be taken back into the Russian motherland, it is to cause concern within the general public.

When one hears Russia stating that if any English long-range missiles are fired over its borders they will respond in a nuclear way. As they are the masters of the black ops, one wonders what really happened to that plane of Ukrainian POWs shot down in Russian airspace. What is certain is that this high stakes game of poker has turned into bluffs and big bets in order to get as many players out of the picture. This is a classic play from the chapter of divide and conquer and it is getting results. Russia has many friends in this poker game and they are playing a vital role in this process.

We are starting to see many reasonable and reputable countries openly discuss preparing for war and strengthen their combat readiness. Countries like Germany, Poland, Sweden and Finland. England has even debated the topic of conscription if war on EU soil commences. This all fits into the Russian propaganda. Why else would Russia move tactical nuclear weapons into Belarus and stage air exercises using planes specific to nuclear bombs deployment? In any open and democratic country this will cause alarm and distress and discussion with discord. That would be worth two pair of coloured

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TOWN TALK

WITH KEITH DOYLE cards in that poker hand. Slovakia is calling on the war to stop now with each side keeping what they currently occupy. Italy has stated that no more military aid should be forthcoming unless it is linked to a peace plan. Hungary doesn’t want any aid for Ukraine full stop, and noises coming out of that

country and Romania are they want to carve back pieces of Ukraine once held by them in bygone days. That Russian poker hand may now contain some colour of a house by now and things are only getting more complicated.

Putin has been very busy in strengthening his ties with North Korea, China and Iran, securing military hardware drones and infantry from his friends. The second conflict is linked because Iranian-backed rebels were responsible for the attack on Israel. Iran is the star supplier of drones to Russia.

This second front helps Russia by escalating tensions and fracturing resources and attention. This conflict is increasingly becoming a global concern on a daily basis. This front has the potential to escalate into a multi-nation conflict very quickly which cannot be contained.

South Africa was not the appropriate country to put down that motion on the Israeli attacks in Gaza due to their strong political and financial alignments to both Russia and China. They did not get the support from many countries because of that. Ireland would have been a more effective sponsor of that motion because of its historical and respected role “All comments as the honest broker. out of Russia What Putin is waiting for is either stem his best pal Donald Trump from, or have being re-elected in Nothe approval of, vember. Trump worryingly the Kremlin.” stated that he would finish that war in three days.

This means cutting off aid and support and throwing that nation to the red wolves. That, my friend, would make that hand be worth a full house or, I dare say, a royal flush. The next few weeks and months will evolve and the world will never be the same again. n

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Bringing artistic vision to creative expression Best of luck to Enniscorthy’s Dorn Simon (Into d’Groove) with her new online gigs/events calendar and newsletter.

Dorn (pictured) is a talented writer/videographer who loves highlighting and reviewing gigs – rock, punk, alternative, metal, and more – and book launches, arts events, exhibition openings, spoken word/poetry evenings, theatre plays etc.

You can subscribe to Dorn’s news ser-

vice here: https://subscribepage.io/GroovyNews And keep up to date with upcoming gigs and events here: https://into-dgrooveflpjjl.mailerpage.io/gigs And if you’d like an event to be included in the newsletter gigs calendar, contact: newdorn@gmail.com And all are invited to send in their own reviews, listings, gig dates, flyers, photos, and all that groovy stuff! n

Call for survey of Enniscorthy town and district public lighting County Councillor for Enniscorthy town and district Cllr Aidan Browne has called for a major survey of public lighting in Enniscorthy town and district.

Cllr Browne’s comments come on foot of his recent call on the Council to resolve the street lighting outages affecting the Promenade Walk in Enniscorthy.

“We all know the importance of footpath amenities to encourage active travel and to encourage footpath use as a viable alternative to using a car.

Without adequately reviewing the gaps in public lighting to assess where additional streetlights are needed, using the footpaths in some areas will not be safe on dark winter evenings.

Cllr Browne outlined that “since posting on Facebook about the urgent need to get street lights back in action along the Prom Walk, a large number of residents in Enniscorthy town and district have contacted me. It is abundantly clear that our street lighting net-

“Additionally, I am aware that in some places in Enniscorthy town and district the spacing between streetlights is far too wide. This needs to be assessed by Wexford County Council and that’s why I’m calling for a major survey of public lighting in the town and district.” n

work needs a major review to make sure that our public areas and footpaths are well lit.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enniscorthy Christian Fellowship

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

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

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

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

Enniscorthy Women Walking Together The group meets Monday - Thursday at Eurogiant Carpark at 7pm and also has a WhatsApp group. Check out their Facebook page: ‘Enniscorthy Women Walking Together’. n

ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS NEEDS YOU!

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

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Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers meet on Sunday mornings to collect litter and tidy up around the town.

Volunteers are always needed and welcomed!

So if you are sick of seeing rubbish on your road, street, estate or elsewhere in the community, please contact: 053 923 6518 or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com Keep up to date on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown Let's all help to make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener! n

‘‘ COUNCILLORS IN ACTION Our present and wannabe Councillors have been cropping up all over the place recently. Of course, as the renowned Councillor Willie Power of Killinascully fame constantly declares, “This is election year.”

In fairness, most Councillors do a reasonable job in difficult circumstances because they have literally no power other than to raise issues with the officials to see if they can be persuaded to act in a particular circumstance.

However, we do need them to highlight these matters.

In fairness to Councillor Jackser Owens, the issue of the Flood Relief Scheme for Enniscorthy would be well dead and buried without his persistent harrying and tormenting of government ministers to keep the matter to the forefront. That’s why we need them.

It is scandalous that the real powers of Councillors were taken away over the years but, as I wrote here on many occasions, the real responsibility for that lies with Councillors in the past who hadn’t the courage to take difficult decisions when such was required. Central government acted in the only way it could. It removed the powers. The harsh reality is that if we are to be like European countries where real local government exists, those elected have to realise that there are many times you have to vote for something which is correct but unpopular. We seem to be lacking in that regard lately.

On the issue of Councillors doing their best, I did say earlier that most do their best but not all according to evidence I have seen this week. A constituent of a Councillor in the Enniscorthy District emailed a sitting Councillor twice in December 2022 in an effort to have a representation made to have a particularly dangerous stretch of road in the district salted during frosty weather. The constituent received no reply in December 2022 or all of 2023. However, last week a letter was received from the Councillor with the message that a representation had been made to no avail. The road would not be salted. So it took 62 weeks to get that response. We must do better is the message here but as Willie Power says, “It’s election

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View from the Centre

A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond year lads.“ (I will spare the blushes of the said Councillor by not naming anyone but the documentation to prove the above is in my possession).

HATE SPEECH LEGISLATION The Hate Speech Legislation, as it is commonly described, is going to be one of the major debating points of 2024. This Bill which is being promoted by government is something which concerns many. The reasoning for the proposed law is to prevent It’s election year lads!

speech whether verbal, through media, or social media, being used to promote hate against any particular sector, ethnic group or policy. The difficulty is going to be the fine line between what is promoting a strongly held genuine view and a view being expressed to encourage hate or intolerance towards any of the above.

Many distinguished legal experts, including Michael McDowell who is a Senior Counsel, former Attorney General, and former Minister for Justice, have expressed concerns that the bill does not define what Hate is. The danger of any such bill passing through the Oireachtas is not the effect it has today but the usage that such a law could get in 20 or 30 years time when we might have a government with views similar to the likes of Donald Trump or on the other side Xi Jinping of China. Both of these gentlemen, who are much more similar than political appearances indicate, would make much use of such a piece of legislation.

The Far Right and the Hard Left are as dangerous as each other and both would have no hesitation in using legislation which allows them to define their own idea of what Hate is to clamp down on dissent. This bill if it becomes law could be used as a tool to close down media outlets who disagree with the policies of a Far Right or Hard Left government in the future.

We already see a number of Sinn Féin TDs not only suing media outlets but going after particular journalists who write something that they disagree with. In the North, both Gerry Kelly and Michelle O’Neill have had cases thrown out by the courts regarding actions which they took against various publications.

Let’s pause for a minute and think what impact the current Hate Speech Bill might have had on their cases.

Maybe none, but the reality is that we don’t know. Unfortunately, this bill, as indeed all bills, will pass through the Oireachtas without any proper scrutiny because of the whip system in operation where TDs are told how to vote by their party and have no room whatsoever to dissent or vote against their party in the Dáil. In other words, instead of a TD asking, “What am I voting for or against,” they simply ask, “How am I to vote on this?” n

7th February 2024 - Page 49

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ECCE & NCS Scheme 7th February 2024 - Page 51

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Young Rapparees Starlights club member Darragh Jordan (centre) was proud to be called on to cut the ribbon and officially open the new Bellefield Youth Club.

Official Opening of Bellefield Youth Club by Maria Nolan

Page 52 - 7th February 2024

SlaNey NewS Popular young Rapparees Starlights club member Darragh Jordan was proud to be called on to cut the red ribbon and officially open the new Bellefield Youth Club, closely watched

by Minister James Browne, Councillors Jackser Owens and Aidan Browne, Club Chairman Ger McVeigh, Youth Club Chairman Stephen Murphy, member of FDYS Michelle Sinnott, Club President Michael Doyle and a very large audience of Enniscorthy’s youth.

couraged all to become involved with the very worthwhile project providing a safe, controlled space where the youth of our community can come together to socialise and make friends, partaking of amenities such as Table Tennis, Pool, Games, Play Stations, and Cinema, with plans for much, much more into the future.

Minister Browne and Councillor Owens were lavish in their praise of Stephen Murphy and the hard-working committee largely responsible for creating the wonderful and much needed amenity for the young people of the town.

Stephen thanked his Youth Club Committee, the Rapparees Starlights Chairman Ger McVeigh and the club Executive Committee for their support and commitment to the project, FDYS for their much-appreciated guidance and advice, WLD for their financial support in the form of a grant, and most of all his very diligent partner, Nicola Warren, who is expecting their baby in less than six weeks!

Michelle Sinnott from FDYS said that as an organisation they were happy to see another youth club establish itself in Wexford bringing the total number of youth clubs in the county to 20 and confirmed that FDYS would be on hand to help any time they are needed.

The very large attendance of young people is indicative of the great need for this excellent facility in our community and among our ever increasing young, diverse population and we look forward to it becoming a major success being a fun environment for all to enjoy.

Stephen Murphy thanked the huge crowd for coming and en-

– WORDS & PICS BY MARIA NOLAN

7th February 2024 - Page 53

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Supporting New Ross Community Hospital BOARD TO LAUNCH BOLD VISION FOR A CARING FUTURE Spring provides the opportunity to step it out in support of New Ross Community Hospital.

Speaking recently on behalf of the New Ross Community Hospital Board of Directors, Sean Reidy said: “We are presently organising a grand gala dinner dance for March 2nd 2024.

The fundraising event will provide us with the opportunity to gather together in celebration of our past and to present our outline plans for the future. All our supporters, stakeholders and families can dress up and dance the night away while knowing their participation will provide much needed financial support to evolve into a modern care setting with wellbeing at its core."

Sean added, “The continuity of partnerships and sense of community forged over the last forty years is core to NRCH‘s mission. We are endeavouring to galvanise the goodwill of the community in New Ross to assist us with important expansion works so we can continue to improve our facilities and to enhance where possible the quality of care. Crystallising the sense of our motto ‘for the community by the community' is our driving force.’’

Chairman John O’Shea added, “There’s great excitement for the changes ahead over the coming years in repositioning our services and reinvigorating our health offerings to meet the demands of caring for our residents.”

The hospital’s voluntary subcommittee, working together on the event, calls on locals, past staff and those across the district to take this chance to connect and enjoy the Joe Davitt Band in the ballroom of the Brandon House Hotel, New Ross. A full five-course table d’hote menu will be served on the night; individual tickets are on sale now at €65 with the option to host a table of ten guests for €650. Contact Kitty in the hospital office directly on (051) 421305 or by email on info@nrch.ie The organisers guarantee an entertaining evening, flashing back to the showband era, and an insightful Chairman’s address alongside the opportunity to share fond stories in celebration of a wonderful facility “whose best days are yet to come”! n

Page 54 - 7th February 2024

L-R: New Ross Community Hospital Board Directors, Deirdre Caulfield, John O'Shea, Sean Reidy, promoting the Hospital’s upcoming gala dinner dance.

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Comhairle Contae

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

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

please contact - Bernie Lennon, CE Scheme Supervisor, Wexford County Council on 087 6575743 during office hours 9am – 5pm or email: bernie.lennon@wexfordcoco.ie

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the roads listed hereunder on Monday 17 March 2024 to facilitate the holding of the Enniscorthy Saint Patrick’s Day Parade 2024.

The closing date for applications is Friday February 23rd at 4pm.

Road Closures 1:

Duffry Street (Cathedral Street), Main Street and Castle Street and Castle Hill (R702) (between the junction of Duffry Hill, Duffry Gate and Duffry Street and the junction of Abbey Square Roundabout and Castle Hill) from 14:00 to 17:30 on Monday 17 March 2024, and Weafer Street (R702) (from its junction with Market Square to its junction with Duffry Hill) from 14:00 to 17:30 on Monday 17 March 2024.

Alternative Route: Traffic (Southbound) Duffry Hill to Lymington Road to Arnold’s Cross to Mill Park Road to Abbey Square Roundabout via R890 and R744.

Traffic (Northbound) Roundabout on Abbey Square to Mill Park Road to Arnold’s Cross to Lymington Road to Duffry Hill via R744 and R890.

Road Closures 2:

The Promenade (from its junction with Seamus Rafter Bridge to its junction of Mill Yard Lane) and Quay Street (from its junction with R744 at Mill Park Road and its junction with The Promenade) from 13:30 to 17:30 on Monday 17th March 2024.

Alternative Route: From Seamus Rafter Bridge to Abbey Square and Mill Park Road to the junction with Mill Park Lane and via Mill Park Lane to Salt House Lane.

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

Please note that persons applying for these positions must satisfy the Department of Social Protection criteria to participate in the Community Employment Scheme.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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Comhairle Chontae Loch Garman ag lorg baill dár bpobal le bheith páirteach mar Comhraiceoirí Dóiteáin (páirtaimseartha) ar coimeád i Stáisiún Dóiteáin Loch Garman Ní mór d’iarratasóirí a bheith 18 mbliana d’aois ar a laghad agus gan a bheith níos sine ná 55 bliain d’aois ar an dáta is déanaí chun foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe a fháil. Ní mór d’iarrthóirí cónaí agus oibriú laistigh d’achar réasúnta ón stáisiún dóiteáin chun a chur ar a chumas freagairt go pras do gach glaoch. Tá poist oscailte d’iarratasóirí fireanna agus baineanna araon. Féadfar painéil a bhunú ónar féidir folúntais amach anseo a líonadh.

Is fostaíocht pháirtaimseartha í. Íoctar Coimeádaí Bliantúil le comhraiceoir dóiteáin, áfach, le bheith ar fáil le haghaidh glaonna i gcónaí. Ina theannta sin, íoctar ráta in aghaidh na huaire le comhraiceoir dóiteáin as freastal ar ghlaonna agus oiliúint sheachtainiúil.

Tá tuilleadh eolais agus foirmeacha iarratais ar fáil ó Sheirbhísí do Chustaiméirí, Bloc F, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, Carraig Leathan, Loch Garman. Fón: (053) 9196000 nó ag www.wexfordcoco.ie Is é an dáta deiridh chun foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe a fháil ná: 5:00 in Déardaoin, 15 Feabhra, 2024.

Is fostóir comhionannas deiseanna í Comhairle Chontae Loch Garman.

Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 20th February 2024 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

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Public Convenience Caretaker (Cullenstown)

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

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.

Position

Location

Environmental Worker – 1 position

Enniscorthy

Customer Service (Block F), Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. Phone 053 919 6000 or visit our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie

Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post

Qualifications, application forms and further particulars for this post are available from:

Duties to include:

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for this post is: 5.00pm on Thursday 15th February, 2024.

• Environmental Worker - General maintenance, cleaning, planting and weeding etc.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

To apply for any of these positions and for further information

Cont’d overleaf 

7th February 2024 - Page 55

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Comhairle Contae

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

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the roads listed hereunder to vehicular traffic on Sunday 17 March 2024 from 12:00 to 15:30 to facilitate the holding of the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in New Ross Town.

Wexford County Council gives notice of its intention to pedestrianise the roads listed hereunder and to temporary close the listed roads to vehicular traffic on Sunday 17 March 2024 to facilitate the holding of the Gorey Saint Patrick’s Day Parade 2024.

Road Closures:

Road Closures 1: One Way traffic flow on Scholars Walk and Woodbury from 11.30 to 15:30 on Sunday 17 March 2024, and

Charles Street and South Street, between its junction with Cross Street and its junction with Charles Street.

Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated as far as possible. Stewards will be in place at all junctions.

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

Alternative Route: Traffic - Sign posted locally.

Road Closures 2: Carnew Road (from Woodbury Roundabout to R722), McCurtain Street, Main Street, Esmonde Street from 14:30 to 17:00 on Sunday 17 March 2024.

Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12:00 noon on Tuesday 20th February 2024 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

Alternative Route: Paul Funge Boulevard, R741 Ballycanew Road, R732, R741 Courtown Road to R772 to Arklow road.

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Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 20th February 2024 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

Alt 75 d’Acht na mBóithre 1993 Dúnadh Sealadach na mBóithre Tugtar fógra leis seo go bhfuil sé beartaithe ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman na bóithre poiblí atá liostaithe thíos a dhúnadh do thrácht feithicle, ar na hamanna atá luaite, ar an Domhnach, 17 Márta, 2024 chun Paráid Lá Fhéile Pádraig i mBaile Loch Garman a éascú.

Dúnadh Bóthair Bóithre:

Sráid Uilliam, Sráid na Tríonóide, Céibh Loch Garman (9.00 r.n. – 1.00 i.n.)

Droichead Loch Garman (10.30 r.n. – 1.00 i.n.)

Bealaí Malartacha Ó Fearann na Carraige / Baile Mhaidilín via An Faiche, Sráid Chaoimhín Barra, Sráid an Rí Uachtarach, Sráid Iósaif, Plás Bhríde, Bóthar an Róistigh, Sráid na Scoile, Sráid Eoin, Sráid an Chnoic, Sráid 1798, Cearnóg Mhic Réamainn.

Is féidir le trácht ag druidim le Baile Loch Garman tríd an R741 atreorú trí Ard Chaomháin, Droichead an Chaisleáin, An Chrosa Bheag, an N11, Caladh na Carraige, Bóthar an Bhaile Nua. Éascófar rochtain áitiúil chomh fada agus is féidir. Beidh maoir i bhfeidhm ar chor ar bith acomhail.

Ba chóir d’aon duine atá ag iarraidh cur i gcoinne dhúnadh an bhóthair seo an agóid a dhéanamh, i scríbhinn, tríd an tairseach ar líne https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ nó i gcóip chrua roimh 12.00 meán lae Dé Máirt 20 Feabhra, 2024 chuig Rúnaí an Chontae.

Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, Halla an Chontae, Carraig Leathan, Loch Garman.

Page 56 - 7th February 2024

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

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Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council proposes to close the public roads listed hereunder to vehicular traffic, for the times stated, on Sunday, 17th March, 2024 to facilitate the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Wexford Town.

Road Closure Roads:

William Street, Trinity Street, Wexford Quays (9.00am – 1.00pm.)

Wexford Bridge (10.30am – 1.00pm)

Alternative Routes From Rocklands / Maudlintown via The Faythe, Kevin Barry Street, King Street Upper, Joseph Street, Bride Place, Roche’s Road, School Street, John Street, Hill Street, 1798 Street, Redmond Square.

Traffic approaching Wexford Town via the R741 can divert via Ardcavan, Castlebridge, Crossabeg, the N11, Ferrycarrig, Newtown Road.

Local access will be facilitated as far as possible. Stewards will be in place at all junctions.

Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection, in writing, via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 20th February, 2024 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

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Comhairle Contae

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

Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following posts Senior Staff Officer Administrative Officer Executive Quantity Surveyor Assistant Chief Fire Officer (1 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 all posts are available from our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie

Wexford County Council is looking for members of our community to join as Retained (part-time) Firefighters in Wexford Fire Station Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and not more than 55 years of age on the latest date for receipt of completed application forms. Candidates must reside and work within a reasonable distance of the fire station to enable him/her to respond promptly to all calls.

Positions are open to both male and female applicants. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.

The employment is part-time. However, a firefighter is paid an Annual Retainer to be available for calls at all times. In addition, a firefighter is paid an hourly rate for attendance at calls and weekly training.

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

Further information and application forms are available from Customer Services, Block F, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. Phone: (053) 9196000 or at www.wexfordcoco.ie

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

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms is: 5:00pm on Thursday, 15th February, 2024.

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for this post is: 5.00pm on Thursday 22nd February, 2024.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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Tá folúntas ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman sa réimse seo a leanas dár Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail Post

Suíomh

Oibrí Comhshaoil – 1 phost

Inis Córthaidh

Dualgais a chur san áireamh: • Oibrí Comhshaoil - Cothabháil ghinearálta, glanadh, plandáil agus baint lustain etc.

Chun iarratas a dhéanamh ar aon cheann de na poist seo agus le haghaidh tuilleadh eolais déan teagmháil le do thoil le - Bernie Lennon, Maoirseoir Scéime CE, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman ar 087 6575743 le linn uaireanta oifige 9rn – 5in nó ríomhphost: bernie.lennon@wexfordcoco.ie Is é an dáta deiridh gur féidir iarratais a fháil ná Dé hAoine 23 Feabhra ag 4pm.

Tabhair faoi deara le do thoil nach mór do dhaoine a dhéanann iarratas ar an bpost seo critéir na Roinne Coimirce Sóisialaí a shásamh chun páirt a ghlacadh sa Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail.

Is fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

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

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

7th February 2024 - Page 57

Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle

The Hostage – “Like Monty Python on steroids!”

After months of rehearsals, hard work, commitment, late nights and early mornings, Enniscorthy Drama Group’s (EDG’s) most ambitious production to date hit the stage in The Presentation Arts Centre for four nights commencing on 31st January, with 15 core cast members consisting of a mixture of experienced hands and stage debutants.

The production was described by cast member Richie Cotter as being like Monty Python on steroids and this unique play, under the imaginative direction of the creative Chris Currid, ably assisted by Karen Franklin (Assistant Director and EDG PRO), and with a fantastic array of characters, certainly lived up to that billing. And the full houses and standing ovations were all fully deserved. n Pics by Slaney News and Maria Nolan.

Above left: Audience members with Enniscorthy Drama Group Chairman Liam Doyle.

Above right: A tour-de-force performance every night by Rónán P Byrne.

Right: The Delightful Dollies – always great supporters of Enniscorthy drama.

Below: Johnny Mythen TD with EDG sponsor Tom Kelly of TK Cabs.

Some of the cast and production team. Pic: Wexford Photographic Group.

Page 58 - 7th February 2024

Chris Currid (left) with audience mem

Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle

Above left: Jacqui Killeen with Karen Franklin. Above right: Dan Walsh and Paul Kehoe TD at the launch night. Below: Maria Nolan with Karen Franklin. Below right: Cast members Sinead Fitzsimons and Martin Conway.

Top: Cast and crew after the performance on 2nd February.

Above: Caroline O’Connell, Tom Boland, Richie Cotter, Liam Doyle, Madeline Breen and Tom Kelly at the official launch of the play in Enniscorthy Castle on 19th January, 2024. Below: Alice Riordan, Evan Ryan and Brian Cooney (who played the Hostage role).

Below right: Marja van Kampen, Dick Donaghue, Jacqui Killeen, Maria Nolan, Karen Franklin, Fiona McDermott.

mbers.

7th February 2024 - Page 59

Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle

Mike Denver coming to the Riverside Park Hotel

Festival

Festival in a Van presented a free St thy’s Orchard Peace Park on Wednes claimed Wexford writers, Billy Roche specially commissioned song based o of Enniscorthy in the far-flung past a

Writers and musicians of all ages from t and performed their own poems, songs tage and renewal so synonymous with B

Billy and Caroline have been working w atively explore questions around what m key issues the town might face in the ne the town through the lens of the 1570s aged students in Coláiste Bríde and adu ing, challenging, frank, and optimistic n Wexford’s heritage while insisting that w

The event was funded and supported b ative Ireland and presented by Festival Centre, Presentation Arts Centre, Ennis Coláiste Bríde. n

Mike Denver, one of Galway's favourite sons, is riding the crest of a wave. His audience is vast throughout Ireland, North and South, and he is now making major inroads in the the UK with sellout concerts in England and Scotland over the past couple of years.

Mike's meteoric rise in popularity saw him being voted ‘Entertainer of the Year 2016' together with a No. 1 Album of the Year, Cut Loose, at the ACMA Awards on RTE TV. Mike to date has had 15 hit albums and 5 DVDs. With his excellent backing band, Mike presents a two-and-a-half-hour, high energy concert show which features all his hits including Tommy K, Wasn't that a Party, Galway Girl, Blown Away, plus hits from the 60s and 70s.

You can catch Mike this month in the Riverside Park Hotel on 22nd February at 8pm with special guests PHILOMENA BEGLEY and RAY LYNAM. Tickets are available at the hotel reception, Ticketmaster or pay at the door. n

Page 60 - 7th February 2024

Author Caroline Busher event in Ennisc Pic: Creat

Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle

l in a Van

. Brigid’s Day live performance in Enniscorsday 31 January from 4pm – 5pm. Two ace and Caroline Busher, performed a new, on collective hopes, ideas, and imaginings and distant future.

he local community also stepped up on stage s, and stories inspired by the themes of heriBrigid’s Day.

with different generations in Enniscorthy to cremakes Enniscorthy’s history special, and what ear and distant future. Peering imaginatively at and the 2570s, the 1970s and the 2070s, teenults in Enniscorthy Library have created excitew poems, songs, and stories that celebrate we lay the foundation for a strong future.

by Wexford Co. Council in partnership with Crein a Van in association with Wexford Arts corthy Library, Creative Places Enniscorthy and

Valentines jazz at Johnstown Valentine’s Jazz at Johnstown Castle, Saturday 17th February, 2024.

Having sold out their Christmas concert, singer Sharon Clancy and the fabulous trio of Killian Browne (piano), Conor Murray (drums) and Dave Fleming (bass) return to Jazz at Johnstown for the eagerly awaited St. Valentine’s date.

An evening of intimate jazz by candlelight in the salubrious environs of Johnstown Castle is just what the doctor ordered for these wintery nights.

Because of the beauty of her flowing tone, Sharon can sing achingly romantic with the most beguiling clarity, sculpting the timeless expression of what it feels like to love and be loved.

Nothing in Irish jazz is quite as seductive as Sharon, Killian, Conor and Dave weaving silken phrases and shimmering chords by candlelight to make the heart sing and Cupid’s arrows fly, only at Jazz at Johnstown.

Tickets: https://johnstowncastle.ie/event/valentines-jazz-at-johnstown-castle/ n

r performing at the Festival in a Van corthy on 31st January 2024. ive Places Enniscorthy.

7th February 2024 - Page 61

Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle

Tying the knot in Enniscorthy Castle David and Elaine, Enniscorthy Castle, 1st Feb 2024.

Page 62 - 7th February 2024

Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle

Fintan to star in ‘hilarious and heartbreaking’ drama Wexford Drama Group presents "How I Learned to Drive”, in Wexford Arts Centre, 15-17 February and 22-24 February 2024.

Paula Vogel’s Pulitzer-prizewinning masterpiece concerns the life of Li'l Bit, a Maryland girl who wants to be a writer but feels stuck in her deadend, oldfashioned family. The only one who understands her is her aunt's husband Peck but is he the saviour she so desperately wants? Set in 1960s Maryland, Vogel’s play is high energy, full of twists and turns, and at once hilarious and heartbreaking.

Starring among others, Enniscorthy’s own Fintan Kelly.

Content Warning: Domestic/sexual abuse, misogyny and sexual harassment.

Aged 16+ n

ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES

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

Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.

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

7th February 2024 - Page 63

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Above L-R: 1. Daniel Furlong who played Prince Lance and Holly Rossiter, Rapunzel. 2. Barry Wadding (King Harold) and Michael McKenna 4. Kellie Ann Maguire (Sniff). 5. At the show were Libby and Oliver Murphy.

WEXFORD PANTO’S "RAPUNZEL AND THE LEA

THE NATIONAL OPERA HOUSE, WEXFORD, 17-21 JA

Above L-R: 1. At the show were Ada and Helena Lambert. 2. There was more than one Rapunzel in the audience, Aoife and Aine Jacob. 3. Posing wi 5. Friends Georgie Wadding and Aislinn Wallace. Below L-R: 1. Some of the Purple Chorus. 2. Keeping it in the family, Georgie and Barry W

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(Prince Charming). 3. Niamh Cullen as Snow White.

AGUE OF PRINCESSES"

ANUARY 2023

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Above left: Holly Rossiter as Rapunzel.

Above right: Linda Hynes who played ‘Glimmer’

th the poster were Aoibhe and Aoife Busher. 4. A husband and wife team, Michael McKenna and wife Dara playing Prince Charming and Queen Grace.

Wadding. 3. Lola Doyle got dressed up for her visit to Rapunzel with Laura Bolger. 4. Dylan Walsh as Stratchit. 5. Some of the Purple Chorus.

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Adversary Interview by Dorn Simon

Pics by Damien Smullen / Wexford Media This interview is transcribed as close as possible to the wording and answers by Tomás and Sean of ADVERSARY. Q: Adversary’s Ritual Opening as you each come onto the stage, it was like you were enacting some sort of ‘Praise on High’ or invocation (especially with the backdrop stained glass windows) would you like to elaborate on that?

Tomás: “I’ll let you answer that.” [gestures to Sean].

Sean: “Yeah, well, basically, I just thought it’d be cool [laughter] essentially…There’s kinda no bigger, deeper meaning behind it or anything, it’s basically kinda the image we want to put forth for the band and kinda something we always wanted to do as well, our music is fairly heavy and doomy and stuff like that and I always liked the idea of coarse paint and like costume and stuff like that, so, just incorporating that bit of performance act really, and even in the intro and throughout the show I thought would just be really, really cool, and thankfully it looked pretty cool, it actually looked like it went off really well.”

Q: What is the reason behind the ‘Masked/Faceless Tomás’? Was it due to you being a familiar face in other bands?

Tomás: “Well, really it was just kinda the vibe that I was going for, I guess vibe would kinda be the word for that, and it wouldn't really be due to you know, being in other bands, I just want people like to know that this band is like completely different and I am a completely different person when I am playing, so it's kinda like an, I guess you could say, a persona really, ya know when I get up there with Adversary, because when I am with my other bands, I’d be like ya know, just being myself on stage, but no, with Adversary I want it to be full-on, ya know, kinda like ‘what are people about to experience from the three of us’.”

Dorn: “Well it has worked, it appears as if it is presenting and being received as you wanted it to, and you have mastered the differentiation already in how Adversary are an entity of their own, a new birthing of a new sound and that even given the genre you have chosen

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for this band, a genre that in essence had been and gone, you’re not only bringing it back, but Adversary have their own fresh sound, a crispness and new take on the genre and are doing it so in-depth and with such profound lyrics, that it speaks; in the past, there were bands with either really great lyrics, but not melodic enough or tight enough as a band, or you had those who were great musicians but the lyrics lacked – Adversary has the right combination, as they have brought the genre back, they’ve brought it deeper, louder, darker, and more lyrical.”

Sean: “Cheers that’s what we're going for with it like, we wanna take it as far as we can go ya know.”

Dorn: “You needn’t limit yourselves to Ireland when playing live either, as there are huge followings for the genre still in the UK, Norway, Germany etc, then there’s the Festivals that are specifically for Metal, Doom Metal and so on.”

Tomás: “Yep, just like the ‘Dutch Doom Days’.” (Rotterdam Doom Metal Festival).

Sean: “Yeah, then ‘Doom Over Vienna’, yeah there’s a bunch of them, there’s so many of them in different countries, like in Latvia, Lithuania as well, and it would have been our Uncle (Shane Cahill - Drums) who woulda, ya know umm played at them…”

Tomás: “And that’s how we kinda, ya know started to get into it”… [smiles] Sean: “Yeah, Yeah, that’s kinda where it all started… good Uncle Shane… [Laughs] Yeah, he’s been to a good few like, he’s been to Germany and Austria, I’m pretty sure he’s been to like other countries around Europe as well and the UK and stuff like that.” [Speaking of Shane’s travels and tours across the EU].

SHANE CAHILL is a seasoned Metal musician, having played with bands such as MAEL MÓRDHA [an Irish Doom Metal band which takes its name from a former King of Leinster, who met a bloody end in battle in the year 1014 A.D.] He still plays with Death the Leveller whose name was derived from the poem, 'Death the Leveller' by

Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle James Shirley (1596-1666), they are rumoured to be doing/releasing new stuff as well.

Shane is also the third and oldest member of ADVERSARY. Q: Was the Teddy mascot seen in the audience during your debut, anything to do with yourselves?

Tomás/Sean: [LAUGHS] Sean: No, I’m not sure, did the teddy belong to CUTTHROAT?..

[Sean asked Tomás who nodded]...yeah one of the other bands named Cutthroat.” [LAUGHING] Dorn: “It actually worked as part of a narrative almost, as first, you are doing your invoking, then there’s Tomás masked, and then this Teddy keeps coming across the audience and on the screen of the live video… kinda like a Mr. Bean or something!”

Tomás: [LAUGHING] “And then you gave it a little smooch.” [Fist bumping Sean’s shoulder].

Sean: Oh yeah, yeah they had it up and I was there being all dark and doomy and I just seen it and went…” [Gestures grabbing a teddy from the audience and quick kiss, LAUGHING].

Dorn: “The make-up thing was quite good as well, I mean obviously we have like the ancients [compared to the lads I am speaking to] kinda did this with the likes of Kiss, Alice Cooper and Bowie, but again, with Adversary it didn’t feel like it was a knock-off or a repeat of something before, everything you did in that performance did appear to be fresh and new.”

Tomás/Sean: “Oh that’s great, thank you.”

Q: How long have you each been playing in bands?

Sean: “Well, like I’ve been playing guitar since I was probably like 12 or 13, and I’ve always wanted to write music but I kinda never had the confidence to do it, or even the skill but I kinda kept practising.

I was in a band called STONE BLIND STATE that was kind of based around Wexford and Enniscorthy…[Dorn interrupts stating yeah I remember hearing them]... Yeah, no Stone Blind State hasn’t really done anything anymore, but umm, yeah I was in Stone Blind State and ah I was in that for a while now and played a few shows with them and after that, I haven’t been in any bands until I started this [ADVERSARY] as a solo project.

Then when our Uncle Shane moved back down from Dublin to Wexford and (we) he, me and Tomás got together because we all loved metal and started jammin’ and that’s when uh Adversary became a thing…and that’s pretty much my history, there’s not a lot there to be honest…” [LAUGHS] Dorn: “And yet, you came across as seasoned.”

Sean: “Oh thank you, it’s something like I suppose, when you dream enough of it hopefully it eh kind of comes across, you think about it all the time and so when you think about it all the time, you can take that and pull it into the physical world and then there

ya go like, well I’m just glad that it came across as cool ya know.”

Dorn: Tomás how long have you been playing, I mean you’re still quite young…”

Tomás: “Yeah, like I’m only 18 now, I think I started playing guitar when ummm, [TURNS TO SEAN] it was a little after when you started, I think, or it was around that time, so I was probably…like I probably took interest when I was like 6…”

Sean: “Yeah.”

Tomás: …7, and then I started kind of ya know, dad was kinda our gateway into guitar at that time, so he would teach me and Sean the basics, so I think that’s where that sort of came from, so I think I was like around 6, and then my first proper band was NO HASSLE, we were all in the same school, same year and everything. Actually, none of us I think, what it was umm, none of us really liked each other…

[Sean/Tomás LAUGH] ...that’s kind of how it went at the start like, obviously we didn’t know each other but I guess we all gave off vibes to each other, ya know… this person blah blah blah, but then we started ya know playing together as we were in the same music class, and yeah we just started as a cover band, then wrote our first song in 2020, the end of 2020 early 2021 I think, and then it's been just full going.

Then, during all that I had FORAOISí GAN INIÚCHADH which was my solo DSBM (Depressive Suicidal Black Metal) project and kind of since Adversary started, it's been on a hiatus, or maybe a little bit before that actually, and then I was in another DSBM band called NOT QUITE THE END for a year, and them lads are based up in Dublin, ehh that's no longer around, and then ADVERSARY, Oh and DEAD MEMORIES…” [quickly corrects himself].

Dorn: “Yeah I was gonna say…with Kris.”

Tomás: “Yeah Dead Memories, me and Kris [Butcher] started that in, gees, was it 2021…I want to say we started it in 2021, and yeah it was just the two of us, and then we started jammin’ with a few of the lads around Enniscorthy and yeah, I left the band then in uhh, it was summer just gone, in the summer around that, and yep, so obviously now Adversary which I am really excited about…”

Q: Tomás, Did you find the ability to play blind gave you an X-Factor for the audience to experience?

Tomás: “Em, I guess I only really did it for myself, kind of out of the three in Adversary we each have our different looks, like when we go out on stage, I mean Shane had the kind of a Blue thing…[turns to Sean]...how would you say that?…”

Sean: “Mmm like the kinda Runic almost kinda ritualistic…[Tomás cuts in with ‘Celtic’]...yeah almost Celtic kinda coarse paint going on, I just had the kinda eyeshadow, the eh raccoon eyes kinda thing going on and then you had the mask.”

Tomás: “Yeah, I was originally going to do a full-on Monk kind of get up and then I realised, oh no, I’ll be sweating.”

To be cont’d in the March issue of Slaney News

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Pain In Vain + Support Words by Dorn Simon – Pics by Damien Smullen/Wexford Media

PAIN IN VAIN Enniscorthy’s first Rock night of 2024 was brought to us by Outrage Entertainment and took place on Saturday 13th January, at The Presentation Arts Centre.

PAIN IN VAIN headliners hail from Dublin, bringing a raucous energising Metal band to the stage in Enniscorthy, and their line-up is as follows: Mikey O’Riordan - Lead vocals Mark Dempsey - Guitar Dylan Monahan - Bass/backing vocals Nikko Pagani - Drums.

The audience was ramped up and so was Pain In Vain to play their first gig in Wexford.

A gig that soon warmed the cockles from a freezing frosty night, to which all were exclaiming “It’s Baltic!”

Thanks go to Pain In Vain for making the journey down to appease the metal masses, of which some familiar faces attended; the lads from Recoil, Bassist from Equinox (who you can catch live soon), Brandon Murphy from Peer Pleasure and Wexford Media’s Damien Smullen who once again was capturing professionally shot memories of this ever-growing alternative scene.

In Damien’s words, “It was a great night, and the bands

were amazing, the lead singer of Pain In Vain is mad, but in a good way ya know?” He also noted, “The lighting was very red, which sometimes adds to the atmosphere and can enhance the image, I would love to get more of the audience but the moshpit is so manic it would just be a blur.”

Here are a few words from Pain In Vain themselves, “We had an amazing time performing at The Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy! We got a great response from the crowd and it was great playing for so many awesome people. It felt like there was a real sense of community when we played the show. As well as this, the setup is amazing, and the crew at Outrage Entertainment are very professional. We loved every second of it and would love to play there again sometime in the future!”

We, in Enniscorthy’s alternative music scene, would be delighted to have you back to play Pain In Vain!

The venue was primed by support acts Sickened, who had their debut on the night. Sickened is a solo project created by Calum, however, for this live performance, they were joined on stage by Kris Butcher (Dead Memories) and Evoke (Evan Cloke) who provided vocals for the gig.

The crowd, supportive as ever, loved it – loud metal, death growls, moshpit, what’s not to love?

Sickened’s next single ‘Tyrant Killer’ is currently being recorded in the recording studio.

SICKENED

Cutthroat, a four-piece band, call themselves “Thrash Metal Tyrants from the Bogs of Ireland”.

They delivered a fun-filled set full of headbanging riffs and thrashed it out to a welcoming audience.

The long-anticipated debut gig from Adversary did not disappoint, in fact, it was of such high quality, it set the bar for the night, you can read more about Adversary and catch the interview with the band on pages 66-67.

Adversary is a three-piece family outfit, consisting of Tomás Hynes (of No Hassle), Seán Hynes, and Shane Cahill (of Mael Mordha).

Photography courtesy of Damien Smullen. n

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ADVERSARY

13th January 2024, The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy

CUTTHROAT

7th February 2024 - Page 69

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AN ELECTRIFYING EVENING Pain In Vain.

Pic: Niall Smith.

The stage was set for an electrifying evening as four distinct bands unleashed their sonic prowess on the eager audience on 13th January, at The Presentation Arts Centre.

The debut performance of Sickened, a one-man Deathcore project hailing from Wexford Town, kicked the night off. Backed by live vocalists Evøke and Kris Butcher, the first-time live performer, Calum Leahy, showcased not only his guitar prowess but also stunned the crowd with impressive backflips. The energy was palpable as they previewed upcoming tracks from their soon-to-bereleased album, "Tyrant Killer."

Self described as "Thrash Metal Tyrants from the bogs of Ireland", Cutthroat, a formidable four-piece Thrash Metal powerPain In Vain Pic: Niall Smith.

house from Kildare, were up next. Frontman B.M exclaimed, "Enniscorthy! Are you ready for some Real Thrash Metal?" before launching into a set filled with blistering originals, save for one apt cover of "Fight Fire With Fire" by Metallica. Addressing in their music the themes of nuclear apocalypse, authoritarianism, warfare, and their disdain for "posers", Cutthroat exhibited a depth of experience and knowledge of the thrash metal genre well beyond their years.

Anticipation reached a fever pitch with the live debut of Adversary, a three-piece Blackened Doom Metal ensemble comprised of brothers Tomás and Sean and their uncle Shane on guitar, bass, and drums respectively. The stage was draped in blood-red light, enhancing the theatrics as each band member menacingly walked onto the stage, faces shrouded by hoods and paint before assaulting the crowd with an explosive start to their performance. Their performance seamlessly blended desolate, atmospheric soundscapes with dynamic musical movements that crescendoed into a face-melting display of raw power.

"Wexford, what the fk is up!? We are Pain In Vain, are you ready for a good fk'n night!?" screamed Pain In Vain's frontman Mikey O'Roirdan as the band kicked off not only their first-ever set in Co. Wexford but also their first headline gig outside of Dublin City. Over the next hour, the band expertly balanced melodic vocals, guttural screams, pounding drums, thundering bass, and piercing guitar riffs, providing a captivating overview of their nearly ten years of musical evolution. Currently touring in support of their latest single "Blasfemia", released just a week prior to the event, the synergy between the band and the crowd felt like a homecoming of sorts. The pal-

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Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle Cutthroat.

Pic: Niall Smith.

Adversary.

Pic: Niall Smith.

Adversary.

Pic: Niall Smith.

Cutthroat.

Pic: Niall Smith.

pable energy in the room reached its zenith when the band was called back for an encore, a fitting testament to the resonating connection forged between Pain In Vain and their enthusiastic audience.

The night was a testament to the thriving music scene, both locally and nationally, where emerging talents captivated the audience with their raw energy, technical prowess, and a profound connection to the essence of their respective genres. As the final notes echoed in The Presentation Centre, it was evident that these bands had left an indelible mark with those who had come to see them, promising more exhilarating performances in the future.

Follow Outrage Entertainment on social media for future updates on the best of local and national music.

– BRYAN STEACY Sickened: Calum Leahy does a backflip..

Sickened.

Pic: Niall Smith.

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DEATH CAN WAIT

Formidable Enniscorthy metal band, Death Can Wait, are returning with a bang! After a prolonged hiatus, the band will formally release their second EP titled Slowly Sinking on 10th February at a release event to be held in The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, on that same date. Brace yourselves as they perform the EP in its entirety for the first time, alongside a selection of old favourites and special guest appearances.

The project was recorded by 12 Gauge Outrage's Reggie Harpur and the launch event is being organised by Outrage Entertainment – another example of the hard work that goes into supporting the underground metal scene in Wexford.

Joining the line-up at the launch to amplify the metal mayhem are Wexford's own 12 Gauge Outrage. Making their debut on Wexford soil, War of Attrition promise to deliver an electrifying performance, while local metal upstarts Dead Memories are set to leave an indelible mark.

Who are Death Can Wait and what is Slowly Sinking? In the band’s own words: “Death Can Wait are Thea, David, Samuel and Patryk.

“Tonight my soul will be fed to earth – Obscurity.

“Slowly Sinking is a project that reflects the group’s rekindled artistic direction, poking at issues surrounding self-acceptance and the idea of belonging as part of the modern realm.

“We can't heal this trauma while we're still bleeding – Empty.

“Slowly Sinking would not have bore completion without the careful supervision of Reggie Harpur who recorded and mixed the project or the support from Outrage Entertainment who organised our launch event.

“A never-ending battle to feel of some use – The Only Way Forward (is through me).

“Lastly, thank you to you. We hope you find a piece of yourself within.

“We bloom and then decay, slowly sinking as it fades – Slowly Sinking.

“Death Can Wait.”

Don't miss out on this epic night of live music.

Grab your tickets now for an experience that will leave you craving more. DEATH CAN WAIT – because the metal cannot!

Date: February 10th, 2024 Venue: The Presentation Arts Centre Tickets: €10 Doors Open: 7:00pm. n

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Riverside Park Hotel – lots to look forward to The Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, upcoming events: 8th Feb 2024 – Dan McCabe, 22nd Feb 2024 – Mike Denver, 11th May 2024 – Pat & Faye Shortt.

Tickets from hotel reception or online at www.riversideparkhotel.com/in-house-events Overnight packages also available including tickets and accommodation. n

Opinion You Didn't Ask For Podcast

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

Dancing with Declan

What’s On Wexford

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

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

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

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

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Enniscorthy Retirement Association The Enniscorthy Retirement Association held its AGM and first meeting of the year on Tuesday 6th February 2024 in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.

The members discussed forthcoming events, trips away, revised Constitution and much more. It was also a great opportunity to meet up with old friends and make new ones. All members and nonmembers were welcomed and tea and coffee was served.

The Association’s activities continue and include on Mondays: Line dancing at 11.00am, and Bowls at 1.00pm. Quiz on Tuesday at 2.30pm. Rambles Walk on Thursday and Pitch and Putt.

For further details go along to any monthly meeting or see ‘Enniscorthy Retirement Association’ on Facebook or email: enniscorthtyretirementassociation@outlook.com A new website is now live at www.enniscorthyretirement.net n

CONGRATS TO YOUNG ENNISCORTHY WOMAN, JESSICA SKERRITT, ON HER SUCCESS AT THE PRESTIGIOUS 'CHAMPIONS OF TOMORROW' BALLROOM DANCING EVENT HELD LAST MONTH IN BLACKPOOL'S FAMOUS WINTER GARDENS. REPRESENTING IRELAND, JESSICA WAS THE 'UK SOLO WINNER'.

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

CONTACT DETAILS: Enniscorthy Gospel Choir: Tel: 087 652 2198 Facebook: ‘Enniscorthy Gospel Choir’ Silvertones: Danny 087 2465250 or Mary: 089 414 2626 The Templars: 053 9237511 or email: tccctempleshannon@hotmail.com n

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

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

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

Closed Saturday & Mondays of bank holiday weekends. n

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Top row L-R: 1. Cllr George Lawlor gives his outfit a whirl on the catwalk during the Wexford Rape Crisis Fashion Show fundraiser in the Coal Drinagh, Wexford, Friday, 2nd February 2024. 2. Siobhan Fawsitt takes to the catwalk with aplomb. 3. Clare Williams, Manager Wexford Ra addressing the audience. 4. Cllr Jim Codd lending support to Cllr Ger Carthy who modelled at the event.

A NIGHT OF STYLE, SOLIDARITY, A LAUGHTER! COAL BUNKER FASHION SHOW, 2ND FEB The Coal Bunker Bar in Drinagh hosted an extraordinary night on February 2, 2024, with the Coal Bunker Fashion Show 2024 turning out to be a smashing success. The venue was packed, the atmosphere vibrant, and the evening was filled with laughter and camaraderie.

Singer Sharon Clancy added a melodious touch to the Prosecco reception at 7:30pm, creating a delightful ambiance that set the perfect tone for the night. Attendees revelled in the performances and the vibrant fashion show that followed at 8pm.

Above: Mary Redmond and Vera Howlin.

Below: Fiona Gainford and Jean Byrne.

MC Maura Bell, with her comedic brilliance, kept spirits high throughout the event. Special mentions go to Cllr Ger Carthy and George Lawlor, who both took good-natured roasting from Maura Bell, much to the amusement of everyone. The banter was lively, funny, and all in good spirits, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the night which was a fundraiser for Wexford Rape Crisis.

The fashion show featured not only the latest collections from Empress, New Mood, The Clothesline Boutique, T-Squared, and Lady Lane but also showcased the modeling talents of Siobhan Fawsitt, Catherine (Biddy) Walsh, and staff from the boutiques and the Coal Bunker. The runway was a display of style, fun, and a true sense of community coming together for a meaningful cause.

Wexford Rape Crisis Centre extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the event, “Your contributions, attendance, and good spirits made a significant impact, helping us continue our vital work in the community.”

It was indeed a night filled with style, solidarity, laughter, and unforgettable moments. The success of the Coal Bunker Fashion Show 2024 is a testament to the community's commitment to making a positive difference.

Thanks to all who supported this successful night of fashion and fundraising. n

Above L-R: 1. Barbara Riordan, Sandra Kennedy and Frances Wadding. 2. Catherine Cosgrave, Betty Farrell and Marion Hillis. 3. Emma Wadding, Tara Berry and Brid H

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PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Bunker Bar, ape Crisis,

AND

B 2024

Hogan.

Above left: Kathleen and Mandy Quinn and Rosie O’Rourke.

Above: Cllr Maura Bell MC for the night at the Fashion Show in the Coal Bunker.

Left: Frances Wadding, Mercedes and Sylvia Wadding.

Below: Jean O’Gorman, Cllr Jim Codd, Ruth Donegan and Siobhan Dwyer.

Left: Model and co-owner Patsy from New Mood Boutique on the catwalk.

Right: New Mood model and co-owner Michelle at the Fashion Show.

Below: Some of the organisers of the Fashion Show, L-R: Joanne O’Leary (Wexford Rape Crisis), Jennifer Lynch (Bee Right Marketing), Emer Coleman (Coal Bunker), Cllr George Lawlor (model), Cllr Maura Bell (MC), Freda Quinn (Wexford Rape Crisis), Laura Lawlor (Chairperson Wexford Rape Crisis), Sharon Clancy (singer), Clare Williams (Manager Wexford Rape Crisis).

Above L-R: Jennifer Lynch, Ann Murray, Eleanor Egan, Laura Boggan and Suzanne Finn.

7th February 2024 - Page 77

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Above: Annie Sinnott, winner of the performance award, with her father Patrick and her grandfather Pat. Right: Judges Laura Mullett, Niamh Duggan and Orla Foley.

Winners of the judges’ award for their creation ‘ReFarmed Fashion’, Dearbhla Dolan, Keelin Doyle and Ellen Mernagh.

Each year in January I look forward to casting off those winter blues and being wowed by Coláiste Bríde’s Junk Kouture annual event, and I am never disappointed and this year I’m very glad to say was no exception.

Organised by teachers, Ms. Kervick, Ms. Brambley, Mrs. Devereux, and the very dedicated Ms. Whelan, Transition Year Co-ordinator, this is an extravaganza of talent, inspiration, imagination, creativity, colour, performance, and confidence.

A most excellent project to prepare young females to seek out and find their place in the great big world.

This innovation sponsored by Bank of Ireland, shows the young adults how to work as a team, how to develop a var-

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COLÁISTE BRÍDE JU iety of skills and talents, and how to think outside the box as they assign titles like Poison Kiss, The Oceans Bounty, Buzzy Bainne, Natural Allure, Cad e an Scale, Reading Between the Lines, Blathanna Oir, Metallic Sobriety, Linolicious, Purple Pandemic, ReFarmed Fashion, Botanic Poly and many, many more to their amazing designs.

This year’s 41 entries demonstrates the massive appeal of the project and the use of materials like St. Brigid’s crosses, plant pots, can tabs, corks, wood, paper, saw blade covers, milk cartons, construction wire, garden furniture, books, curtains, fishing nets, medical caps, roofing felt, coins, CDs, playing cards, candle holders, wine bottles, hurley grips, lunchboxes, contact lens packets, yoga mats, beer cans, silage wrap, and much more is indicative of the diversity, vision, ingenuity and resourcefulness of these young women as they create masterpieces from someone else’s rubbish.

This novel concept teaches the Coláiste Bríde students respect for each other and the environment giving them a vison of sustainability and reusage along with providing a

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Above right: Winners of the Innovative Material Award for their creation Hair Finesse, Molly O’Brien and Katie Dempsey with members of their family.

UNK KOUTURE HAS THE WOW FACTOR

BY MARIA NOLAN platform for many of them to develop their poise and confidence as they strut their stuff on the catwalk, and who knows where that might lead, we could be looking at the models and designers of tomorrow.

I would also like to give a shout out to the wonderful interval entertainment in the form of Coláiste Bríde line dancers, energetic jivers, Ellie Dempsey, Kayleigh Cullen, Lucy Sludds, Mikey Fortune and Rhys O’Gorman and Wexford Academy Irish dancers along with a beautiful rendition of Diamonds in the Sky by the very poised and professional Kayleigh Doran.

The amazing array and variety of young talent was uplifting.

In truth, it is fair to say that all should be applauded as innovators and winners but on the night the Judges’ Award went to ReFarmed Fashion designed by Dearbhla Dolan, Keelin Doyle, and Ellen Mernagh and modelled by Keeling Doyle, an outfit devised to create awareness of the amount of plastic wasted on farms each year.

In Ireland, over a million bales worth of silage wrap is used and dumped so the team washed, dried, and upcycled the silage wrap to create texture on both the top and the skirt.

Hundreds of single-use testtube lids were collected from different milk companies, washed, cut, and painted to add colour to the stunning ensemble.

The Students’ Choice Award went to Dressed Emma designed by Emer Doyle, Ava Duffy, Eve Kinsella and modelled by Emer Doyle and was made from Barley seed bags.

The Glamour Award – Linolicious was designed by Ellie Callanan, Ella Corrigan and Leah Donnelly and modelled

by Ellie and inspired by a Lady Gaga grammy look.

The Performance Award went to Annie Sinnott who did absolute justice to the stunning design by herself, Sadhbh O`Hanlon, Megan Atkinson. Annie hopped and bopped in Metallic Sobriety made from layers of recycled beer cans.

Cont’d overleaf

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A lady destined for the stage, me thinks.

Blathanna Oir designed by Ava O’Rourke, Abby Carroll, Abbie Murphy and modelled by Ava received the Finishing Touches Award for their detailed creation made from discarded school lunchboxes.

The Creative Construction Award was designed by Sienna Howe and Stephanie O’Connor, and modelled very elegantly

by Stephanie. This unique design Natural Allure was made from Barkcloth which comes from the bark of the Mutuba tree found in Uganda.

Hair Finesse designed by Molly O’Brien, Katie Dempsey, and Ava Peare, modelled by Molly and made from hundreds of

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plastic hair foils which were collected, washed, dried, manipulated, and sewn layer by layer to fashion an inspired piece that received the Innovative Material Award.

Well done all, another truly magical evening of inspiration, glamour, vision, fashion, inventiveness, brilliance, and creativity – sure who could want more on a cold night in January.

Wishing all the winners the very best as they progress to further heats of this wonderful competition. Coláiste Bríde has an excellent track record with Junk Kouture and I have no doubt that this year`s competitors will make their contribution to its prestigious record.

– MARIA NOLAN

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Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely

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

Alfie O’Sullivan, the driving force behind the new Creative Grounds arts hub on Irish Street, Enniscorthy, is now forging ahead with another idea – a Small Business Club to help support, promote, guide and nurture all local Arts, Crafts & Design small businesses in Enniscorthy and the surrounding areas, by way of growing a thriving network of like minded individuals.

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

Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries.

Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries.

YouTube: "Wexford Public Libraries" n

Alfie tells us, “We aim to meet monthly to network, share ideas and discuss any queries or issues we may encounter.

Each month we will also have guest speakers to discuss a variety of topics to help support and grow your small business. By supporting each other, incredible things can happen!”

To join the Small Business Club (which is free!), please call or message Alfie on 087 090 8783 or follow @smallbusinessclub.ie n Alfie O’Sullivan

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THE PROPOSITION

Movie Review with Kyle Walsh  pleasantly surprised as this film remains one of the greatest western films ever made. It’s a hidden gem. It does not get the applause it deserves. It failed miserably at the box office on its release. It was made on a budget of 20 million dollars and it only made 5 million dollars. When it was released on dvd it became a bit of a cult film and gathered some following.

There are some genuinely brilliant films out there that just vanish into thin air and this is one of them sadly.

This film has great names attached to it. Screenplay was written by Nick Cave who also wrote the music to it. Directed by John Hillcoat. We have an all-star-studded cast with the all-time great Ray Winstone, the wonderful but underrated Guy Pearce, Emma Watson, the magnificent John Hurt.

So much talent involved in this film and it shows on the screen.

It’s hard to believe this film is 19 years old and to this very day it has not lost its power, it still stands the test of time and, as they say, they don’t make films like that anymore. Its scenery is jaw dropping with every frame.

It’s a striking looking piece of filmmaking. It’s so beautiful but yet so violent all at once. In all its glory it also tells the ugly truths about Australia.

A good friend of mine is a huge Nick Cave fan and going back a few years ago he asked me did I ever watch a film called The Proposition, an Australian western which Cave wrote. He was shook when I said ‘no’ that I never had watched it. I had heard about it but just never got around to watching it. The next day my friend gave me a copy of it to watch. It was not a great copy but I remember loving this film.

Fast forward a few years and I am delighted to say that my 4k bluray copy arrived in my post last Thursday from Amazon. I was so excited to revisit it and watch it on my big screen with the surround sound on and picture quality absolutely incredible. So after watching it I decided that I would do a review on this as it’s a western that might have passed by a lot of people and that is a shame. I hope some people that read this review will get a chance to hunt this down and give it a go, they will be

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The film starts off with a brutal gun fight which leads eventually to the capture of outlaw Charlie Burns (Guy Pearce) and his brother Mike (Richard Wilson) by Captain Stanley (Ray Winstone). But Stanley’s real target is to bring their oldest, sadistic brother Arthur (Danny Huston) to justice for the slaughter of a local family. With no lead on Arthur, Captain Stanley gives Charlie a Proposition. The Proposition is that Charlie has nine days to track and kill his brother Arthur. Stanley has Charlie’s younger brother Mike and will hang him in nine days if Charlie fails. If Charlie succeeds they will be both pardoned for their crimes. It is a compelling story and one that will genuinely leave you speechless.

The Proposition is a brilliantly acted story about the sinfulness and brutality of man. It’s a violent, provocative western set in the harsh, unforgiving landscape of the Australian outback. This film needs to be seen and I really hope some of you good people out there who take time out to read my reviews will check this film out. It’s truly brutal, bloody, violent but absolutely beautiful too. Each frame beautifully shot throughout. Cinematography just incredible. Colour palette used is sensational and makes the images pop even more. The beautiful haunting score. The sound effects astounding. This is truly incredible filmmaking. Do not expect your classic westerns from Hollywood where the good cowboy wins. There is no good or bad here. Here good and bad are all the same. Each man haunted by his own past and demons.

This is a masterpiece and it gets a 10/10 from me. One of the greatest westerns ever put on film. n

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ONE INCREDIBLE NIGHT OF MUSIC

Enniscorthy Gospel Choir will be hosting An Evening of Music on Sunday 25th February, 2024, in the the Riverside Park Hotel in aid of Parkinson’s Ireland Wexford Branch.

There will be songs from the Enniscorthy Gospel Choir, led by their Musical Director, Anita Mahon. They will be joined by Soloist Emily Furlong. Music Generation Wexford’s Yellow Bellows Youth Singing Group will be performing under the direction of Anita Mahon and Diarmuid Comerford. Also performing will be the Parkinson’s Ireland Wexford branch choir called ‘Sing for Health Parkinson’s, Wexford’, under the baton of Elizabeth Drwal. Music accompaniment on the night will be by Greg Semla on Piano, along with Rory Cooper and Eddy Blake.

The Enniscorthy Gospel Choir are looking forward to sharing their music with everyone in aid of The Parkinson’s Association of Ireland Wexford Branch who provide support and information around County Wexford along with coffee mornings/support meetings, physio and chair yoga, and have their own branch choir called ‘Sing for Health Parkinson’s, Wexford’, who will perform on the night at the Riverside Park Hotel.

Tickets can be purchased for €20 from the Riverside Park Hotel, from Arts & Crafts on Slaney Street, or from any Choir member. There will be a door prize and raffle on the night.

Keep up to date on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100 055885908297 n

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Top row L-R: 1. Fr Jim Fegan PP and Larry Kavanagh. 2. Bridget Sinnott and Josie Foley. 3. Noreen and Mick Frayne. 4. Philip and

Caim Community New Year’s Pa Caim Community Centre, 28th January, 2024

Above left: Patricia Browne and Helen Cloney. Above: Gerard Flynn, Pat Roche and Maurice Delaney. Above right: Cecil and Jane Ruttle.

Below L-R: 1. Anyone for dessert? Young helper James Cooper eyeing up one of the delicious meringues. 2. Betty Cooper and Anne Coleman.

3. Anne O’Gorman and Josie Kavanagh. 4. Jane Buckley, Catherine Murphy and Mary Doran.

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Above: Margaret James, Trish and Isaac Wheelock.

Below: Some of the backroom staff, Mick Butler, Bridget Delaney, Christina and Linda O’Gorman.

d Bridget Howlin.

arty

.

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Above: Josie, Michael, Paddy and Jimmy Foley.

Below: Molly Fenlon, Liz and Peg Casey.

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New play by Paul O’Reilly to get local premiere From the pen of Enniscorthy's own Paul O'Reilly, and skilfully directed by the talented Fintan Kelly, this beautiful one-act play, 'Going Home', produced by Enniscorthy Theatre Company, premieres at The Presentation Arts Centre on February 8th and 9th.

Tickets available now on www.presentationcentre.ie Poster artwork (below) by the very talented Larry Dunne Artwork. n

Dana in Barntown Internationally renowned artist and Eurovision winner Dana will sing in Barntown church on Sunday 11th February 2024 at 7.30pm.

Dana will be joined by the local childrens’ choir at Barntown, and local artists will also take part.

Tickets are €25 each and can be bought from Barntown Parish Office on (053) 9120853. n

Enniscorthy Musical Society

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Enniscorthy Comhaltas is as active as ever The Enniscorthy branch of Comhaltas Céoltóirí Éireann was established in April, 1960. It held its first meeting in the Railway Hotel, Enniscorthy. Part of a national organisation, the ethos of Comhaltas Céoltóirí Éireann is the promotion of Irish music, song and dance.

Enniscorthy CCÉ hosted the All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in 1967, 1999 and 2000.

It is indebted to the many volunteers and members who have worked to keep our culture to the fore in this region over the years.

At a recent meeting, the following committee members were elected: Chairperson, Michael Murphy, Secretary, Seamus Coleman, and Treasurer, Sean Doyle. Sean was indeed the treasurer of the first branch in 1960, a fantastic achievement and testament to his support for Enniscorthy CCÉ.

Enniscorthy CCÉ hosts regular sessions which are open to all to attend.

Kate Dwyer who was presented with her Grade 6 London College of Music Certificate by the secretary of the branch Seamus Coleman.

Music classes for primary and secondary school age groups are held every Tuesday evening in St. Patrick’s Special School, Enniscorthy, by Nora Kavanagh M.A., B.A. Mus (Hons), A.L.C.M., T.T.C.T.

Check out the Enniscorthy branch of Comhaltas on: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1000573481944 80

For more information on branch activities contact Seamus Coleman (087) 2840259.

Check out Nora Kavanagh on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nbkav/ n

Students attending Enniscorthy CCÉ music classes held by Nora Kavanagh.

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Oulart Senior Citizens Christmas Party PAT’S PICTURE PARADE

Oulart Community Centre 7th January 2024

Above left: Nuala Croke and Joy Wells.

Above centre: Tony Crean and Joan Kavanagh.

Above right: Ned and Mag Evens.

Left: Michael and Seamus Quigley, May Kennedy and Tony Whyte.

Right: Mary Teall, Annette Doyle and Anne Quigley.

Below left: Mary Dennison and Rita Bernie.

Below centre: Marion and Peter Kennedy.

Below right: Jim Dempsey, Bridie and Marie Nolan.

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OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

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Above left: Christy and Beth Courtney.

Above: Garda Bernard McGinley, Phil Montgomery and Eileen Smith.

Left: Anne and Pete Keane and Breda Jacob.

Below: Lucy Bolger and Mick Jacob.

Oulart Senior Citizens Christmas Party in Oulart Community Centre, 7th January 2024.

Above: Mary Geraldine and Thomas Buttle and Kathleen Hyland.

Above right: Aidan and Breda O’Connor.

Right: Irene Grahan and Phyllis Walsh.

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Scouting for new volunteers ADULT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO HELP START UP SCOUT GROUPS IN BOTH THE ENNISCORTHY AND FERNS CATCHMENT AREAS. CONTACT DERMOT MOORE: 087 490 4848.

One person’s account of how Scouting changed their life...

“Let me take you on a journey back to 2007 when my son Alex and I had just arrived in Bucharest, leaving behind the familiarity of a smaller city in Romania. We were newcomers to this big new city, with me still trying to familiarise myself with the new environment and Alex with only a handful of new friends.

And then, like a whisper of opportunity, came an invitation to join our local neighbourhood scout centre. Honestly, I didn't know what Scouting was all about back then. I faithfully took Alex to activities every Saturday, but the inner workings of the Scouting world remained a mystery to me.

I was blown away from my vantage point in the kitchen or during precious breaks when I'd dash to see what was happening in the camp. I witnessed scout leaders, grown-ups by all definition, joyfully playing alongside children and young people in fantastical adventures and orchestrating activities that my son, Alex, and all the other scouts were super excited about.

Soon, it dawned on me that this play was education cleverly disguised. Every child's progress was carefully monitored, and all these incredible leaders did it voluntarily, without expecting anything material in return. It was all about love, shared values, and a desire to leave the world a little better than they found it.

As the years rolled on, I watched Alex grow in harmony. His teamwork and patrol skills blossomed, he learned how to enjoy life's little moments, and he became mindful of nature, economy, respectful and resourceful – life skills that came straight from his scouting adventures.

Then, a few years later, a meeting with parents and an invitation to consider becoming scout leaders. It was a chal-

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lenge, especially with my weekends filled with bicycle competitions. But after all those years of seeing my son benefit from countless extraordinary moments and experiences, I felt it was time to give something back. They assured me it would be "only two hours a week." Two hours? I could manage that.

Little did I know, you can give anywhere from 2 to 40 hours a week or even more. But you know what? It's been a journey I wouldn't trade for the world.

I found myself immersed in an extraordinary world filled with incredible people. I watched my son and myself learn, grow, and become better versions of ourselves. My son, who entered

scouting as a curious cub at 7, is now 23 years old, a scout leader, and a board member at our local scout centre. And I can say with absolute certainty that it was in Scouting that he developed his leadership, organisational, and teamwork skills more than in any other formal educational setting.

So, dear parent, if you're still pondering whether to enrol your child in Scouting, I implore you to stop thinking and start doing! Scouting will change their life, just as it did for my son. You'll create unforgettable memories and forge friendships that will last a lifetime.”

– Anca, Scout Leader and mom of a Scout Leader

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LEARN TO SEW CLASSES Sewing classes will be held this month in Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre, provided by The Seamless Seamstress and supported by Sustainable Enniscorthy.

ses las c ing ew rthy s re ing isco ent c C u n y rod in En ue: nit int ven ommu C non n sha ple m Te

4 202

BASIC ALTERATIONS WORKSHOP

KNOW YOUR MACHINE WORKSHOP

These stand alone 2-hour workshops are designed for new sewing machine owners. Or those needing to refresh their knowledge of their machine.

LEARN TO USE YOUR SEWING MACHINE CONFIDENTLY - THREADING, WINDING BOBBINS, CHANGING SEWING “FEET” KNOW THE COMPONENTS OF YOUR MACHINE TROUBLESHOOT PROBLEMS GET THE BEST USE OUT OF YOUR MACHINE

The format will be two separate workshops: Know your Machine Workshop Wednesday 7 or Monday 12 February, 7.30–9.30pm. Cost €30.

Basic Alterations Workshop Wednesday 21 or 28 February 7.00–9.30pm. Cost €35.

There will be a maximum of ten people per workshop.

More details in the poster opposite.

Contact Geraldine at 087 6677409 or info@theseamlessseamstress.net to book your place.

These stand alone 2.5-hour workshops are suitable for all sewing levels. Save money by altering your own clothes or soft furnishings.

IMPROVE YOUR SEWING SKILLS THROUGH PRACTICAL SEWING APPLICATION LEARN HOW TO CARRY OUT MINOR ALTERATIONS AND REPAIRS TO YOUR OWN GARMENTS SHORTEN HEMS ON SKIRTS, TROUSERS AND JEANS TAKE IN/LET OUT SEAMS TURN UP/LET DOWN CURTAINS

WED 21ST FEB 7:00-9:30 PM OR WED 28TH FEB: 7:00-9:30 PM COST: €35

WED 7TH FEB 7:30-9:30 PM OR MON 12TH FEB: 7:30-9:30 PM COST: €30

BOOK EARLY! WORKSHOP LIMITED TO 10 PEOPLE PHONE GERALDINE ON: 087 6677409 EMAIL:

info@theseamlessseamstress.net

To keep up to date with all sustainability events in the Enniscorthy area, keep an eye on the Facebook page: Sustainable Enniscorthy n

087 6677 409

Supported by:

info@theseamlessseamstress.net www.theseamlessseamstress.net

Keep up to date on: https://www.facebook.com/baileylaughscomedy Email: baileylaughscomedy@gmail.com

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Do you have what it takes?

Do you have what it takes to beat Quiz Master Tony? Gather your brainiest friends, family, and colleagues for an unforgettable evening of trivia, laughter, and camaraderie.

Test your wits with a variety of categories, from general knowledge to pop culture, ensuring a challenge for everyone! It’s on at 8pm, Friday, 9th February, at Wexford Boat Club. Teams of 4 – €40.

All are welcome to this fundraiser for the society’s upcoming production of The Phantom of the Opera. n

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AMIGO PRODUCTIONS AMIGO PRODUCTIONS, a new theatre initiative with strong Enniscorthy connections, has five one-act plays running between two nights in April, for its ‘Page To Stage’ one-act festival.

Audition information for Enniscorthy: Go along to Enniscorthy IFA Centre on Tuesday 6th February anytime between 8pm and 10pm. Scripts will be provided on the night. The scripts are a mix of comedy, dark comedy, heartwarming drama, and the afterlife.

The 'Page To Stage Festival' will be held in the Wexford Arts Centre on April 13th and 14th. n

Four amigos: Paul Hughes, Jamie T Murphy, Joan O Ruairc, Wally O’Neill.

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BLACKOUT An exhibition by Nua Collective International Tour Exhibiting in Dr. Billy Colfer Gallery, Wexford Arts Centre.

Official Opening by Cllr. Barbara-Anne Murphy, 8th February 2024, at 6pm.

Running until 2nd March 2024. www.nuacollective.ie/blackout #nuablackout Scattered around the world, Nua Collective are a group of professional visual artists who collaborate together to create, share and support one another in their journey as artists.

BLACKOUT marks their first physical exhibition and they are delighted to continue their international tour in the Dr. Billy Colfer Gallery at Wexford Arts Centre.

Presenting the works of 13 Nua Collective artists, the Blackout series looks at

climate change through a particular lens – blackout. Or the loss of self security that comes from our reliance on unre-

liable energy. The works wrestle with our human responses to the insecurity inflicted by the anthropomorphic blackout.

This exhibition of lino prints, that are unique in their creation and processing, has already travelled the globe and will also feature the premiere of the Blackout documentary to be screened at the venue throughout the exhibition run. Together, Nua Collective artists make an inquiry about our climate catastrophe and the energy crisis that we continue to face.

Since beginning in 2020, Nua Collective has seen 80 visual artists feature on its platform. All artists are living in Ireland or are linked to Ireland representing eight different nationalities. Paintings, photography, sculpture textiles, film, digital media and ceramics are just some of the artforms presented by the members.

Nua Collective Social: Facebook: www.facebook.com/nuacollective Instagram: www.instagram.com/nuacollectiveart X: www.twitter.com/nuacollective Website: www.nuacollective.ie n

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CONGRATS TO BUDDING ARTISTS SADIE AND HARRY FROM CASTLEDOCKRELL Castledockrell pupils took two of the top prizes at the recent Green-Schools “What I’d like to see for the sea” Poster Competition.

Sadie Sweeney (pictured) and Harry Raleigh, both pupils at Castledockrell National School, near Enniscorthy, were among twelve award winners of this year’s Green-Schools Marine Spatial Planning Poster Competition: “What I’d like to see for the sea.” Sadie and Harry took 2nd and 3rd place in the Infants category. The students were celebrated at an awards ceremony in Cork last month for their posters depicting their vision for the future of Ireland’s ocean and coast.

Sadie Sweeney, Castledockrell National School.

In partnership with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Green-Schools asked students to create posters showing how they would like Ireland’s seas to be used in the future. The competition ties in with the National Marine Planning Framework, which aims to balance the different demands for using Ireland’s marine territory, including the need to protect and conserve the marine environment. It's about planning when and where human activities take place at sea and ensuring these activities are as efficient and sustainable as possible. The competition was open to schools taking part in the Green-Schools Marine Environment theme, which encourages schools to learn about the importance of the ocean, and to take action to reduce marine litter and raise awareness in their local community, about ways we can help the marine environment.

As part of their work on the Marine Environment theme, schools are asked to investigate sources of marine litter, take part in a #2minutebeachclean and carry out a Marine Litter Awareness survey, which demonstrates significant increases in awareness among school populations about these issues, year on year.

Schools also learn about Ireland’s marine biodiversity, investigate issues such as the impact of climate change on the oceans,

and learn together through workshops and events nationwide.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Green-Schools National Manager, Joanne Scott, said: “I am so impressed with the winning entries, the students really understood the theme and highlighted many creative ways to use and protect our seas.

Thanks to everyone who participated.” n

Creative Grounds – a welcoming and imaginative space for all art forms I was delighted to join with well wishers galore from the Enniscorthy arts community on 12th January 2024 for the official opening of Creative Grounds at No.3 Irish Street.

As a former resident of Irish Street, I was blown away at the innovation and transformation of the building by Alfie O’Sullivan creating a welcoming and imaginative space for all art forms – music, literature, poetry, painting, photography, film, fashion and much, much more. Why there is even a Tattoo Parlour that was in full use on the opening night as the beautiful Marie had an equally beautiful butterfly tattooed on her calf.

Living on Irish Street over 30 years ago, I would never have envisaged such an endeavour possible.

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Certainly a labour of love by the instigator and inspired creator Alfie who hopes to see the space being used for art exhibitions, book launches, poetry readings, and as an intimate venue for young musicians looking to cut their teeth on the Enniscorthy music scene.

Beautiful, relaxing, affordable, rentable space with coffee shop, art gallery, stage, tattoo station, and plans for summer events in the adjoining yard, maybe even incorporating outdoor cinema, this has to be a win-win for Alfie and Enniscorthy arts and I would plead with everyone to go on down to No.3 Irish Street and support this inspirational man.

– MARIA NOLAN

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Art focus on Enniscorthy eastside Deryn O’Callaghan is the new co-ordinator for Creative Places Enniscorthy, an Arts Council of Ireland initiative based in The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy. The three-year funded project is aimed at conDeryn O’Callaghan necting the community, people, artists etc with place and Deryn is busily at present engaging with all sections of the community in order to get as much feedback as possible so as to frame the development of what can be done by the project.

Deryn is engaging with the local community to explore, discuss and plan a range of creative and participatory projects for local people to take part in and enjoy.

The approach is inclusive and diverse and rooted in socially engaged arts practice and community development principles.

It builds on existing cultural strengths and is led by community participation and ideas and supported by artists.

A survey has been prepared asking for opinions, suggestions, ideas etc which will be helpful to Deryn in her work. The survey can be accessed here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1LXS hplGNKkxqXjiQSuPwjAWhNyyObsRUuC2pa0_ZviQ/vie wform?edit_requested=true The objective of Creative Places Enniscorthy is to connect people in order to allow ideas develop into creative actions.

Creative Places seeks to address any issues and empower the people of Enniscorthy to make decisions about what kind of creative activity they want to experience.

The data collected by Deryn from the survey will be used to help form the overall programming and project development.

In accordance with Creative Places Enniscorthy GDPR policy, information supplied by respondents will not be provided to any other parties and will be used solely

Community | Creativity | Coffee & Cake Creative Places Enniscorthy warmly invites Community leaders | representatives to our upcoming meeting

Date: Thursday 15 February Time: 10.30am – 12.30pm Place: Temple Shannon Community Centre What to expect - Information and introductions: Enniscorthy has been awarded the 3 year Arts Council of Ireland Award | An Chomhairle Ealaíon for Creative Places. This project hopes to enable artists and communities to create exceptional art together.

Find out more about the project and let us know what you think.

Network Meet other members of the community Let’s brew some ideas over a coffee and explore how Creative Places Enniscorthy can connect to the community

RSVP: To make sure we have enough coffee, cake and chat to go around please confirm your attendance to Deryn (co-ordinator) E: cpenniscorthy@wexfordartscentre.ie M: 087 9578984

PEOPLE | PLACE | ARTISTS

Deryn O’Callaghan Project Co-ordinator Tel: 087 9578984 cpenniscorthy@wexfordartscentre.ie www.creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie for the purpose of developing an arts programme for Enniscorthy.

A successful introductory event was held on 6th December 2023 in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, attended by a large number of artists and those with an interest in the arts.

A second Creative Places Enniscorthy event will be hosted later this month on Enniscorthy’s eastside, with an open invite to the community to discuss artistic ideas for the town. See poster above.

Date: Thursday 15th February 10.30am.

Location: Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre.

Do you have an idea or view on art projects for Enniscorthy, then go along to this event and have your voice heard.

Keep up to date with all Creative Places Enniscorthy developments on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CreativePlac esEnniscorthy For any queries, suggestions or ideas, you can contact Deryn at 087 9578984 or cpenniscorthy@wexfordartscentre.ie n

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Edges – sound and ceramics

EDGES An international exhibition of sound and ceramics. Co-curated by Richard Carr, Kay Aplin and Joseph Young.

Wexford Arts Centre, 20 February – 22 March 2024.

Opening Launch: Saturday 17 February at 3pm.

Featuring performances by Joseph Young and Suzanne Walsh.

Wexford Arts Centre in partnership with Wexford County Council Arts Department are pleased to present Edges, a group exhibition featuring work by Kay Aplin, Juss Heinsalu, Pille Kaleviste, Linda O’Keeffe, Patrick Tubin McGinley, Suzanne Walsh, Katharine West, and Joseph Young. The exhibition will run in the lower and upper gallery of Wexford Arts Centre from Tuesday 20 February to Saturday 22 March, 2024.

Produced by artist-curators Kay Aplin and Joseph Young of The Ceramic House (UK) in partnership with Irish curator and sound artist Richard Carr, Edges explores ceramics and sound art practice through the work of artists from three nations at the western and eastern fringes of Europe - Ireland, UK and Estonia. The works were developed as part of artist residencies and international exchanges, creating collaborative encounters across the two disciplines.

Edges explores what it means to work at the edge of something and how we understand the outsider. Edges also expands on the idea of artistic practice as a so-called ‘cutting edge’, through the investigation of geographical boundaries and coastlines of the host nations.

The exhibition at Wexford Arts Centre is the result of three separate artist residencies and one new commission. All of the artworks exhibited can be seen as works-in-progress or experimental iterations, made under tight time constraints and in response to place and site.

The first residency took place in April 2022 at The Ceramic House (supported by European funding) pairing two sound artists from Ireland, Linda O’Keeffe and Suzanne Walsh, with Estonian ceramicists Juss Heinsalu and Pille Kaleviste. Over a period of four weeks, they worked together in pairs and the resulting exhibition Peripheries was shown as part of the Brighton Artists Open Houses festival.

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The second residency at Interface in the Inagh Valley, Connemara, in June 2023, saw Kay Aplin and Joseph Young exploring the Connemara landscape, accompanied by curator Richard Carr, in a series of walks and wanderings, gathering binaural sound recordings and plant, fossil, lichen specimens as they went.

The third residency took place at Watts Gallery and Artist Village, Surrey (Oct-Dec 2023), the former home of celebrated artist couple, George Frederic and Mary Watts. Here Aplin and Young explored a more personal take on encounters through partnership, both through the lens of their own relationship and the creation of The Ceramic House, their artist home, which was conceived and developed by Kay. Finally, ceramic artist Katharine West (IE) and sound artist Patrick Tubin McGinley have selected pre-existing works to be displayed alongside each other, creating a dialogue in the gallery space and uncovering new ways of listening and viewing the material (clay) and the ephemeral (sound).

Richard Carr is an Artist-Curator currently living and working in Wexford. His practice is rooted in a sonic sensibility and usually involves spending time within specific geographical, architectural and psychological landscapes.

He has been supported by numerous funding bodies including Culture Ireland, Creative Ireland, ArtLinks, ALAAO, and The Arts Council of Ireland. His work has featured as part of leading international programmes such as Culture Ireland's GB18 programme in association with MOCA London, and their upcoming Zeitgeist Irland 24 showcase in association with Errant Sounds Berlin and The Embassy of Ireland in Germany. Alongside this, he has been invited to participate in EU funded initiatives such as 'Archives of the Future' in Poland and 'PARTGO' between various higher-level institutions in Ireland, Hungary, Finland, and Estonia.

Slaney artS Kay Aplin is an architectural ceramicist, and has been creating site-specific commissions for the public realm and large-scale tiled installations since graduating from Chelsea College of Art in 1995. Kay works with microscopic imagery of natural objects to create highly textured wall-based porcelain compositions.

Exhibitions include Indian Ceramics Triennial, Aveiro Ceramics Biennial, Kogei Triennial Kanazawa, British Ceramics Biennial and Collect, Saatchi Gallery. She is a member of the International Academy of Ceramics and selected member of the Craft Potters Association. In 2011, Kay initiated her award-winning project The Ceramic House, project space and living showcase of her work.

Joseph Young lives and works between Brighton, Berlin and Dublin. He is an Irish Research Council Scholar, for his practicebased PhD at SMARTlab UCD, Killruddery: Listening to the Archive (2019-2023).

Recent exhibitions include: The Destruction of Language (after Le Madame), Venice Architecture Biennale (2023); Circa Regna Tonat, SLEEPERTOWN, Ireland & Italy (2021-23); Make Futurism Great Again, Estorick Collection, UK (2018); The Missing Paintings, Towner Art Gallery, UK (2017); Singing the Castle to life, Lewes Castle, UK (2017); Revolution #10, House of Commons, UK (2015); What is the Sound of Protest?, Errant Bodies, Berlin (2015); The Garden Manifesto, Seoul Museum of Art (2014); Listening Ears, Tate Britain (2012).

Edges is supported by Wexford County Council, i-Portunus and Open Gorey. Wexford Arts Centre is supported by the Arts Council and Wexford County Council.

Gallery hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10am – 5pm and Saturday from 10am – 4pm. n

ENNISCORTHY ARTIST MARJA WINS ANOTHER MAJOR ART AWARD Artist Marja van Kampen has been succesful in the 7th Irish Enterprise Awards and has been awarded ‘Most Creative Abstract Artist 2024’ by the team at Eu Business News.

Marja van Kampen is originally from The Netherlands but lives in Enniscorthy.

Recent exhibitions include solo shows at the Signal Arts Centre, Bray, the Kenny Gallery, Galway, Artbank, Bunclody and an exhibition of Irish female artists at the Art Museum, Ankara, Turkey.

Her work is in the collections of the Arts Council of Ireland, Office of Public Works, Wexford County Council and Áras an Uachtaráin, the residence of the President of Ireland. https://www.facebook.com/marja.van kampen n

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Lauren Breathnach launches exhibition Words & Pics by Maria Nolan I was delighted to meet the lovely Lauren Breathnach at the recent launch of her unique exhibition, Stardust & Silver Screens, recently at The Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy.

Lauren, who hails from Murrintown, is best known for her vivid and abstract portrayal of flora and landscapes and has had her vibrant painting on display previously at the Centre.

Stardust & Silver Screens is a completely new departure for the soft spoken, unassuming artist as it delves into the realms of paper collage.

Sourcing a lot of her material in old books which she finds in vintage bookstores and charity shops, Lauran carefully collects and repurposes images that tell their own story weaving them into intricate narratives, in a vibrancy of history, texture, and reimagined stories.

Each of Lauren’s pieces serves as a testament to the beauty found in repurposed fragments and each stands alone as a celebration of the most exquisitely artistic recycling, but taken as a group of collages is where they truly to come to life and as a collection would beautifully adorn any foyer, office, sittingroom or entrance hall and at such affordable prices it would be a shame to remove only one from the collections – so a word to the wise when you are purchasing as I know you will, choose at least two, these works of art are only going to increase in value, in fact at the opening night 5 or 6 pieces sold immediately, a testament to the appeal of the artist and her work.

Well done Lauren. n Above: The Presentation Arts Centre staff, Conor, Larry and Lisa.

Right: Maria Nolan with artist Lauren Breathnach.

Below: The Presentation Arts Centre’s Lisa Byrne with Lauren Breathnach.

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Wexford winners in national art competition The Wexford County Winners were recently announced in the National Disability Authority’s ‘Someone Like Me’ National Art Competition. n Left: Dr. Aideen Hartney, National Disability Authority, with student Ava Burke, Kilrane NS.

Right: Dr. Aideen Hartney, National Disability Authority, with student Isabella Kelly Byrne, Kilnamanagh CNS.

The 8th Annual Open Call Exhibition at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy – Celebrating Creativity!

March 9th 2023 – May 4th 2023.

After a hugely successful 7th Annual Open Call Exhibition where 140 artists from all over Ireland shone brilliantly on the gallery walls, the 8th Annual Open Call Exhibition is back for 2024!

In what has been described as a staple of the arts and culture calendar in the south east of Ireland, this show is open to any artist to take part in. It doesn't matter what your technique is, or how professional or beginner you are, all are invited to showcase their work in Enniscorthy’s primary gallery space.

Dates For Your Calendar: February 19th & February 20th, 10am - 7pm: Artwork Drop Off Days.

Saturday March 9th, 6pm - 8pm: Official Opening & Awards Ceremony.

May 8th to May 11th, 10am - 10pm: Artwork Collection Days.

Submission forms are now available to download on https://www.presentationcentre.ie/open-call-exhibition.html or to collect in-person at The Presentation Arts Centre. n

The Slaney Writers group meets in Enniscorthy Library on the second Thursday of every month at 6.30pm.

New members are always welcome. If you are interested please contact Enniscorthy Library on 053 9236055.

Enniscorthy Library Adult Book Club meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7pm and is free to join.

Book clubs are a great way to meet others and discuss books.

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

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Slaney SlaneyartS ad On Friday, 12th January 2024, a new Arts Hub was welcomed to the town of Enniscorthy.

Creative Grounds, at 3/4 Irish Street, had a fast turnaround from the prior business of Funfetti and has been turned into the new Warhol-esque Arts Station. Alfie O’Sullivan implemented his idea in record time, as the arts scene in Enniscorthy is currently surging upwards.

The night was attended by the press, photographers, artists, art lovers, writers, and musicians with delighted smiling faces abounding. The evening’s launch was a whopping success.

At Creative Grounds, with its cosy retro or vintage feel reminiscent of the ’60s through to ’80s, one could imagine the likes of Warhol, Debbie Harry or Basquiat sitting on one of the cushions or couches inside the main entrance in the Coffee Shop area, with an ambience due to the soft mood lighting.

Alfie was a fantastic host, greeting everyone, and offering wines, juices, and nibbles to everyone who arrived at a steady pace throughout the evening, giving the launch a wonderful community feel without being too crowded at any one time.

Creative Grounds – a whopping success Words by Dorn Simon Pics by Wexford Media / Damien Smullen

Exhibits of Photography from locals Marie Hayes and Justin Codd could be found on the walls of the main space on the ground floor, with both Marie and Justin attending the evening's proceedings.

Alongside, were designed art pieces of Junk Kouture and two mannequins modelling junk kouture fashion.

Behind this area is the small tattoo studio where Wojciech, the tattoo artist, was available on the night and had Creative Ground's first tattoo client adorned with a large butterfly on their calf, during the event.

Further in, up the ramp, the large open plan room, which will be an exhibitions area, doubles as a performing space, or for workshops, or a hired space. At the launch, it was set up with a small stage awaiting the live music for the night, provided by locals Katie Marie Cloke, Jack Cloke, and their father Michael Cloke who shared the music stage with them.

Alfie O’Sullivan

Their acoustic set brought the whole mood of the launch night to a high.

The upstairs of the property has been converted into studio spaces for artists, with each room at the launch adorned with prints, paintings, and art pieces, from local artists such as Larry Dunne, GIBSON, Natalie Doyle, Marja van Kampen, Mirala, Sarah Cogley and Krystyna.

Nearing the end of the night’s event, Alfie took his place on the stage to give his heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended the launch and who gave him and Creative Grounds such support to bring this amazing project to life.

His plan continues to be to offer affordable studio spaces for artists within the community, to use this space for arts, creativity, community, music, film, poetry, dance and anything else the people of Enniscorthy need it to be.

Overall, the launch night of Creative Grounds was well received by everyone who attended. n

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Entertaining the launch attendees were Katie and Michael Cloke

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Pics by Wexford Media / Damien Smullen

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Check out the great new Enniscorthy Community Allotments website: https://enniscorthycommunityallotments.ie

Enniscorthy Country Market – fresh produce in an indoor setting The indoor Enniscorthy Country Market is open every Friday morning from 8.30am till 12 noon at the IFA Centre.

Fresh produce at reasonable prices.

Both cash and card taken. n

Enniscorthy drinks company’s new venture Stafford Irish Spirits, the Tomnalossett-based company behind the successful Jackford Irish Potato Gin brand, has launched its own new whiskey described as being ‘Rooted in Rebellion, inspired by the Seeds of Liberty’. More details shortly on our Facebook page and in our March issue. n

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Spice up your life in Enniscorthy!

Congrats to Camolin's Rajesh who opened his new Spice Emporium shop in Enniscorthy last month. The shop is situated in the old Doyle's butcher shop on Court Street, but please note the entrance is on Tanyard Lane (the lane that links the Old Dunnes car park to Rafter Street).

The shop caters for all tastes – Asian, South American, Middle Eastern, as well as Irish.

It's very much a family business and Rajesh and his staff of three are looking forward to serving the people of Enniscorthy and the surrounding district for many years to come.

In addition to huge range of international and local food, the shop also sells fresh meat and fish.

There's definitely something for all tastes in the new Spice Emporium, check it out! https://www.facebook.com/spiceemporiumm n

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ooted in

exford

Mark Cooke invites you to grow along with him.

The Slaney News is delighted to have Enniscorthy man, Mark Cooke, on board with his monthly column. Mark is a member at Enniscorthy Community Allotments, and has a huge passion for growing fruit and veg which he shares on his Instagram platform @rootedinwexford which has over 7,500 followers. Mark describes himself very much as a ‘hobby gardener’ who is not academically trained in horticulture. He started planting with very little knowledge a few years ago and that knowledge has now ‘mushroomed’! Mark loves sharing his passion for growing with readers of the Slaney News.

A Guide to Growing Spuds and Starting Seeds this February Hello, fellow gardeners! This February's article, we'll look at starting some spuds – a perfect journey for beginners looking for both simplicity and richness in their gardening experiences. In this article, we'll look at the chitting process, planting potatoes, and later in the month, venturing into the greenhouse, or a warm window to kickstart your garden with some fantastic seeds. But first, a quick invitation: connect with me on Instagram @rootedinwexford for more gardening tips and inspiration.

Chitting is still a bit of a debate; do we need to do it vs do we not. The chitting process is a fascinating prelude to growing potatoes. It involves placing seed potatoes in a cool, well-lit space for a few weeks. During this time, short and sturdy sprouts begin to emerge. Once these sprouts reach a length of 1-2 inches, your potatoes are ready for planting. It's more common in main crop variety potatoes, but it's done for many varieties and different people have different results. Me personally? I'm on the fence.

Choosing the right location is crucial for potato success. I grow mine in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. I also find it's easier to grow them in a

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large pot. I'll demonstrate this on my social media platforms later on in the month so that you can consider this option too. Plant your potatoes about 4-6 inches deep, ensuring the eyes face upward. Give your spuds plenty of space, as overcrowding can hinder growth. As your potato plants thrive, remember to gradually hill up soil around them to protect developing tubers from exposure.

As we move into the later half of the month, I like to shift my attention to the greenhouse, it's an excellent space for starting seeds but it does need a little heat, so if you don’t have any heaters out there, your window ledge will work just the same. Consider kickstarting your vegetable garden with seeds such as tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. These versatile crops are perfect for beginners and flourish in controlled greenhouse environments.

Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a staple in every garden, and the greenhouse is an ideal place to start these delicious fruits. I grow lots of different varieties of all different shapes, size, and colours. Tomatoes love warm environments, which makes the greenhouse an excellent choice to grow them.

Peppers: Peppers are lovely to grow yourself, and I'd highly recommend if you don’t. Even if you have very little

space, try some chilli inside of your kitchen window. The controlled environment of the greenhouse provides the warmth and protection that peppers need for plenty of growth.

Cucumbers: Cucumbers are perfect for greenhouse gardening. The cucumbers thrive in warm spaces and produce a lovely, fresh taste. With the right care and attention, you'll be harvesting cucumbers that add a refreshing touch to your salads, snacks, and drinks.

I really believe that gardening is a journey of discovery and growth. Each step – whether chitting potatoes or nurturing seedlings in the greenhouse – brings you closer to the vibrant, rewarding world of your own veg. It's also an amazing way of grounding yourself after a stressful day. For a visual guide through the gardening process and to share your own experiences, follow me on Instagram @rootedinwexford and tag your photos with #RootedinWexford so we can build a thriving community together.

In conclusion, remember that gardening is not just about the destination; it's about the learning (and failures) that comes with every step. Happy planting, and I hope this growth season is great for you. n

Slaney food & drink

Tried-Tested-Tasted by Caitriona Caitriona Barron from Drinagh, Wexford, grew up on her dad’s farm with plentiful homegrown veg and their own meat so “we really knew the value of good food. My mother started a seafood business after meeting my stepfather fisherman, my brother now runs the seafood business so I’m well used to fresh food.”

“I worked with the family business before leaving to be a stay-at-home mother but soon got bored (lol!) and started taking pics of my food, sharing my recipes on social media. When people started showing interest, I realised this could be a job so I bought myself a camera and threw myself in the deep of it. I love it and I get to work with amazing companies.

Seeing my pictures in magazines, in shops, and occasionally on TV is pretty amazing.

“I’m a mother of two boys and, yes, juggling it all can be very tough. But I keep it going as it’s my passion now and it’s very rewarding.” https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted and Caitriona_barron on insta n

Caitriona Barron

FISH SOUP Ingredients: 1lb of mixed seafood – I used haddock, salmon and smoked hake.

3 tbs butter.

1 leek white part chopped.

1 carrot chopped.

1 large egg yolk.

3 medium potatoes chopped.

1.5 cup of stock using 2 stock cubes. ½ cup of white wine.

450ml cream.

Bunch of dill.

Salt, pepper and old bay seasoning.

Method: Sauté leek and potato on medium heat, once leek soft add carrot.

Add white wine, cook white wine off for 1 min then add stock and seasonings.

When the potatoes are tender, add cream, holding back half the cream, add egg to that cream and a little hot stock once tempered add to soup and add fish.

Cook for 7 mins.

Garnish with lots of dill.

Enjoy! n

Pic: Caitriona Barron.

https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted

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Your local Slimming World Consultants in Enniscorthy

Providing you with a huge choice of sessions throughout the week: Tuesdays @ 6.30pm The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384 Wednesdays @ 8.00am, 9.30am, 11.00am, 5.30pm and 7.00pm Enniscorthy Rugby Club – Call Trish on 087 3607615 Thursdays @ 9.30am Enniscorthy Rugby Club – Call Trish on 087 3607615 Saturdays @ 9.00am and 10.30am The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384

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Slaney ad

COST EFFECTIVE CELEBRATIONS

Hosting a communion or confirmation party in a restaurant not only provides a stress-free experience but can also be surprisingly kind to your wallet.

Here are five compelling reasons why opting for a restaurant celebration can be more cost-effective than hosting a party at home

1. Catering Efficiency When you choose a restaurant for your communion party, you gain access to professional catering services. Restaurants are equipped to handle large events, streamlining the food preparation process and ensuring that the menu meets highquality standards. This efficiency can often result in lower per-person catering costs compared to sourcing and preparing food at home.

2. Venue Amenities Included Unlike hosting at home, where you may need to rent or borrow tables, chairs, linens, and other essentials, restaurants include these amenities in their event packages.

This eliminates the need for additional rentals, saving you both time and money. The cost of your booking is often bundled with these amenities, making the overall expense more predictable.

3. Service Staff at your Fingertips Hosting your communion party in a restaurant means you can take advantage of the professional staff on-site. From serving and clearing dishes to managing the details of the event, the restaurant staff ensures a smooth flow, allowing you to relax and enjoy the celebration without the need for additional staffing expense 4. No Pre or Post Party Cleanups One of the most significant advantages of a restaurant communion party is the absence of pre or post-party cleanups. Restaurants handle the cleanup, saving you the time and effort required to return your home to its precelebration state. This can be particularly appealing for those who wish to avoid the exhaustion of a post-party cleanup.

5. Predictable Budgeting Restaurants often offer packages with transparent pricing, making it easier for you to budget effectively. With a home party, unforeseen expenses can quickly add up, including decorations, extra food costs, and the potential need for additional items. Restaurants provide a more predictable cost structure, allowing you to plan your budget with confidence.

Opting for a restaurant party provides a professionally managed event that can make your celebration memorable without breaking the bank. Call 053 9230353 to speak to Jackie at The Bailey Bar & Eatery or email jackie@thebailey.ie to organise your stress free cost effective celebrations

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Are you business ready?

GreenTechHQ, based at Enniscorthy’s new Technology Park, has partnered with AIB to provide a range of SME specific sustainability courses. The programme aims to introduce the principles of sustainability and their practical application in business. Designed to help participants understand the importance of sustainability and provide them with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute to sustainability efforts in their businesses and communities.

The first of this year's ESG Sustainability training takes place on the 13th February with Derek Sinnott on behalf of GreentechHQ. It is important to retain business viability by ensuring you are ready, not just for CSRD reporting, (particularly if you are a supplier within scope 3) but, also, if you want to retain/win corporate business on a national or European scale. Business does business with compliant companies and as large corporates and multinationals have to track and report their scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions from January 2024 – you will too!

Be ahead of your competitors – BOOK NOW on www.greentechhq.com n

Holos turns 10 Holos, the luxurious plantbased skincare company, has just turned ten years in business in Enniscorthy, having been officially launched at the Showcase exhibition in the RDS, Dublin, in 2014.

Founder Niamh Hogan (pictured third from left) says, “It’s been a rollercoaster of ups and downs but we've been growing steadily for the last four years and in a few weeks we make the big move to a bespoke premises we've been working on for four months. We are excited to take on the new challenges this will bring but the opportunities that it gives us far outweigh the challenges. Bring it on! 2024, let's be having you!” n

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LOCAL ENTERPRISE OFFICE Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93 info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie Contact: 053 9196020 Email: breege.cosgrave@wexfordcoco.ie

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LOCAL ENTERPRISE OFFICE WEXF SUPPORTING OVER 235 SMALL BU EMPLOYING 1,940 STAFF, AND CREATE OVER 328 JOBS IN

L-R: Carol Gibbons (Enterprise Ireland), John Magee (Chairman of Local Enterprise Offices network), David Butler (Quality Building Materials), Debbie Crowley (Funky Monkey), Sean Kehoe (Machinelab), Aoife and Seamus O'Reilly (Milestone Pavement Tech).

On 18th January 2024, Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail Neale Richmond announced the annual results of the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) for 2023 which showed that companies supported by Local Enterprise Office Wexford created 328 jobs in 2023 with a net job increase of 177 which takes into account companies that amalgamated, ceased trading and those that transferred on to Enterprise Ireland.

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The new figures show that the LEO Wexford financially supported 235 small businesses in their portfolio across the county, these companies in turn employ 1,940 people.

The total national figures for the Local Enterprise Offices across the country were announced with the LEOs now financially supporting 38,726 jobs across 7,167 companies.

This is the most jobs the Local Enterprise Offices have supported na-

tionally since their inception back in 2014.

In 2023 there were 6,640 new jobs created by LEO client companies with a net job creation figure of 2,131.

This was up 6% nationally on 2022 figures. From the jobs created, 82% were outside of the Dublin region.

The LEOs also provide substantial funded supports to thousands of other small businesses across the country with programmes such as the

Slaney buSineSS & finance

FORD NOW USINESSES HELPING 2023 Trading Online Voucher, Lean for Business and Green for Business along with training and mentoring.

Minister Neale Richmond TD said: “These results are a testament to our Local Enterprise Offices; ten consecutive years of job growth is a major accomplishment that reminds us how crucial their support is both for new businesses, but also in helping existing businesses to grow.

“With 82% of new jobs created outside of Dublin, it is clear that our Local Enterprise Offices are supporting businesses right across Ireland.

What is also evident is the resilience of Ireland’s fantastic small businesses that have continued to adapt to an ever-changing business environment.”

The Local Enterprise Offices were to the fore in supporting small businesses across the country in 2023, helping thousands to pivot online or adapt their products and services through a large suite of supports. The Local Enterprise Offices offer training and mentoring in a range of areas from financial skills and product innovation to starting your own business and maximising your presence online.

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at LEO Wexford, said: “The results announced are a testament to the strength of Wexford’s small business community. When faced with adversity, they have adapted, pivoted, upskilled and did whatever it took to sustain and grow their businesses.

Wexford is ranked second nationally in terms of net job creation and LEO Wexford have played a significant role in this achievement.”

Commenting on behalf of Wexford County Council, An Cathaoirleach

Cllr. John Fleming said: “I am delighted to see Wexford LEO once again achieve outstanding job creation figures and is a leading light nationally. It is heartening to see that over 82% of net new jobs created were outside of Dublin and Wexford made a strong contribution to this figure.”

Tom Enright, Chief Executive Officer, Wexford Co. Council, said: “Wexford is punching well above its weight consistently delivering strong job creation figures for the last four years. It is the close working relationship between Local Authorities and Enterprise Ireland that ensures that SMEs get the most appropriate supports in areas of greatest need in a timely manner. The key sectors showing growth are: Food, Engineering, Manufacturing with encouraging figures around Life Sciences and the Green Sector.”

Carol Gibbons, Head of Regions and Local Enterprise at Enterprise Ireland, said: “2023 was a challenging year for business and these very positive employment results are a testament to the dedication and commitment of the LEO network across the country and the ambitious businesses it supports.

“Key to the success of the LEO network is the close relationship it fosters with both start-up and scaling businesses across communities. Enterprise Ireland will continue to work closely with the LEO network in 2024 to ensure that all businesses can access the support and advice they need to start, grow and win in all markets.”

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at LEO Wexford.

the National Enterprise Awards. The Local Enterprise Offices are also running a campaign encouraging small businesses to save time money and energy by availing of their competitiveness and productivity supports including Green, Lean and Digital for Business. www.AllInADaysWork.ie For further information: Local Enterprise Office Wexford info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie Tel: 053 9196020 www.LocalEnterprise.ie n

The Local Enterprise Offices, located in the local authorities and funded through Enterprise Ireland, support thousands of small Irish businesses and entrepreneurs nationwide. Since their establishment in 2014 they have been the first stop shop for entrepreneurs and small businesses providing a range of supports including financial, mentoring, training and sector specific expertise to help guide businesses at any stage of their development.

They also run key initiatives to foster entrepreneurship across the country including Local Enterprise Week, National Women’s Enterprise Day, the Student Enterprise Programme and

Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council Cllr. John Fleming

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Wexford c wins big a craft a WEXFORD’S SULLY & JUNO ANNOUNCED WINNERS OF BEST NEWCOMER AT ‘THE BUSINESS OF CRAFT AWARDS’ AT SHOWCASE 2024 A craft and design business from Wexford has won the Best Newcomer award at The Business of Craft Awards as part of Local Enterprise Showcase at Showcase 2024 which took place in the RDS on Monday 22 January 2024.

Sully & Juno, supported by Local Enterprise Office Wexford, won the Best Newcomer category at these inaugural awards.

Sully & Juno: Pioneering Sensory-Inclusive Clothing in Ireland being the sole designer and manufacturer here of sensory-friendly clothing. Sully & Juno presents a vibrant collection catering to the unique needs of the wearer. From beautiful, tag-free designs to soft organic fabrics, the range includes varied fits from snug to baggy and loose necks for headphone comfort.

Originally catering to smaller children, Sully & Juno now offers sizes from newborn to 5XL, reflecting their commitment to meeting customer needs. Each garment includes a sensory profile for informed purchasing.

Available online through a dedicated website with individual garment "sensory profiles", or in person at events, Sully & Juno stands out for embracing "everyday Irish" on their garments, offering personalisation options in both Irish and English.

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Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at LEO Wexford, commends Sully & Juno for their groundbreaking work in developing sensory-inclusive clothing. “The Best Newcomer award at The Business of Craft Awards recognises their dedication to meeting diverse customer needs and embracing 'everyday Irish' with personalised, comfortable style. Congratulations to Sully & Juno, a true pioneer in the industry!

“The addition of The Business of Craft Awards to this year’s Local Enterprise Showcase at Showcase 2024 is a significant boost for the companies. It helps to highlight some of the best-in-class businesses from the design and craft sector across the country and we are doing that in front of key buyers both nationally and internationally.

“On the whole, Showcase 2024 is a huge event for our three Local Enterprise Office supported companies – Sully & Juno, WeirdWatercolours and Jumbleink taking part. They got the chance to meet with buyers from all over the world and it’s three days that could change their business forever.”

Cllr. John Fleming, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, also extended his congratulations to Sully & Juno for securing the Best Newcomer title at

Gillian Duggan White and Nina Shelton and pi South Dubin Local Enterprise Office, as their W Best Newcomer award at

The Business of Craft Awards during Local Enterprise Showcase at Showcase 2024. “Their success not only highlights Wexford's craftsmanship but also underscores the invaluable support provided by Local Enterprise Office Wexford. As we kick off the new year, Sully & Juno's achievement exemplifies the impact of local support structures in fostering innovative businesses. Their pioneering work in sensory-inclusive clothing sets a remarkable standard.

Well done, Sully & Juno, and a salute to the commitment of Local Enterprise Of-

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company at national awards

of Craft Awards during Showcase 2024.

Taking part in this prestigious event has been a rewarding experience, showcasing the significance of craft businesses in our community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Local Enterprise Office Wexford for their unwavering support; this achievement wouldn't have been possible without their guidance and encouragement. Recognising and celebrating the importance of craft businesses is at the core of our mission, and we are thrilled to contribute to this narrative.

Thank you Showcase 2024, and a special thank you to Local Enterprise Office Wexford for being our steadfast partners in this journey."

Mary Blanchfield, Head of Operations at Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI), commented: “Congratulations to all the winners of the very first Business of Craft Awards. These awards are a great way to celebrate the business models of craftspeople across the country. Showcase 2024 highlights the very best of Irish talent and creativity. At DCCI, we are delighted to have the opportunity to provide a dynamic platform for businesses to connect and collaborate with both domestic and international buyers.”

the UK, USA, mainland Europe, Asia and Africa, generating millions of euros of sales orders during the show. Showcase is presented on behalf of Design & Crafts Council Ireland, with support from Enterprise Ireland in promoting the trade show internationally through their network of offices overseas, and the Local Enterprise Offices nationwide.

Local Enterprise Showcase is one of several enterprise initiatives run by the Local Enterprise Offices across the year to foster entrepreneurship and help small businesses to start and grow.

Other events include Local Enterprise Week, National Women’s Enterprise Day, the National Enterprise Awards, the Student Enterprise Programme and the Local Enterprise Village as part of the National Ploughing Championships.

For more information on the Local Enterprise Offices and the supports they can provide, please visit LocalEnterprise.ie Local Enterprise Office Wexford info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie 053 9196020 www.LocalEnterprise.ie n

Showcase 2024 is the pinnacle event in the global design and crafts calendar, opening its doors to thousands of buyers from across the world, including Ireland,

ctured with Tom Rooney, Head of Enterprise at Wexford business Sully & Juno takes home the t Showcase Ireland 2024.

fice Wexford”!

The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) awards were open to all the LEO clients who were exhibiting at the event as part of the Local Enterprise Showcase.

This was the first year of the awards that celebrate the business behind the amazing craft and design products that are being created across the country.

Nina Shelton and Gillian Duggan White from Sully & Juno commented, “We are truly delighted to be honoured with the Best Newcomer award at The Business

7th February 2024 - Page 115

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Local Enterprise Office, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93. Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie. Tel: 053 9196020.

Green for Business – a free programme open to all business sectors The Local Enterprise Office Green for Business programme is free, and is open to businesses across all sectors.

This programme gives you access to a green consultant, who will help you identify the small changes your business needs to make to make a big impact on the planet. Any potential investment into green technologies outlined in your Green for Business audit can also be offset by applying for an Energy Efficiency Grant. Visit the link below and make the first step to becoming Green! https://www.localenterprise.ie/green

Page 116 - 7th February 2024

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“The most important meeting in the history of Enniscorthy Chamber” AN IMPORTANT MEETING OF ENNISCORTHY & DISTRICT CHAMBER TOOK PLACE LAST MONTH AT WHICH IT WAS DECIDED TO OPEN TALKS WITH COUNTY WEXFORD CHAMBER, WHICH COVERS THE WEXFORD, NEW ROSS AND GOREY DISTRICTS, ABOUT A POSSIBLE MERGER.

the huge advantages of being a member of a countywide chamber, saying it allowed for Enniscorthy to negotiate from a position of strength, while Richie Cotter maintained it would be a “terrible shame not to take advantage of this opportunity,” before adding, “Good leadership is making the best use of all our resources.”

Enniscorthy & District Chamber is to open negotiations with the County Wexford Chamber on a possible merger. The decision was taken at last month’s annual meeting of the Enniscorthy Chamber on 10th January 2024 and the appointed negotiating team of Michael Dempsey (President), Colm Neville, Eric Barron, Ed Murphy and Majella Wall were mandated to negotiate on the basis of ‘favourable terms and conditions’ being obtained.

Their impassioned pleas, however, didn’t convince every member in the room with Michael Bennett, Chamber Director, asking for a postponement of any decision for at least a year in order to protect the integrity of the Enniscorthy Forum, a subsidiary of the Chamber, in its dealings and negotiations with the United Nations Environmental Programme. He spoke of the Forum’s Memorandum of Understanding with the UN and said any change in the status of Enniscorthy Chamber could create difficulties. He was supported in his assessment by Barbara-Anne Murphy, Chief Executive of the Forum, and a former Chamber President, but Ed Murphy countered by saying he had checked the legal standing of the agreements in place and found they were in no way compromised by any change of status contemplated at Chamber level.

The negotiating team has been given until the end of February to agree amalgamation terms with the County Wexford Chamber and subject to ‘favourable terms and conditions’ being secured, Enniscorthy Chamber members will then be asked to vote in favour of joining the county body.

Not all members, however, were in favour of the move at the annual meeting with a third of those present voting against the proposed amalgamation.

Doubts about the independence of Enniscorthy Chamber following a merger with the County Chamber was the primary reason put forward by members for opposing the move but outgoing President Michael Dempsey assured all present that the autonomy of the Chamber would not be compromised in any new arrangement now being contemplated.

His assessment was strongly supported by outgoing Board members Ed Murphy and Richie Cotter. Ed Murphy spoke of

The well attended AGM was given a detailed account of the Chamber’s financial position by Company Secretary, Eugene Doyle, retired Principal of Doyle Fielding Chartered Accountants. He outlined a number of issues pertaining to the financial well-being of the Chamber and said they would need to be addressed if Enniscorthy was to remain independent of the County Chamber.

The planned regeneration programme of Enniscorthy Town Centre was the subject of considerable discussion during the meeting with various members contribu-

Enniscorthy & District Chamber Development Officer Jimmy Gahan. ting. There was strong criticism of certain aspects of the programme, particularly in relation to parking, and criticism also of Council officials’ lack of enthusiasm for an enhanced plan put forward, at the behest of the Chamber, by internationally renowned architect, Niall Byrne, who is Vice Chairman of the Chamber.

Some members complained of not having been informed of the enhanced plan and it was agreed that Mr. Byrne would present his proposals to all public representatives and to the local business community at a meeting to be arranged.

Because of opening negotiations with the County Wexford Chamber on a possible merger, the election of officers and Board members for 2024 was postponed until such time as the negotiations have been completed. Outgoing President, Michael Dempsey, agreed to remain in office for the duration of the planned talks and will preside over an EGM of Chamber members upon their completion. n

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Enniscorthy & District Chamber – a look back at 2023

Enniscorthy Chamber President Michael Dempsey (left) welcomed Minister Simon Harris TD (centre) to a Chamber luncheon in the Rivertside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, in November 2023.

IN EARLY JANUARY 2024, ENNISCORTHY & DISTRICT CHAMBER DEVELOPMENT OFFICER JIMMY GAHAN TOOK A LOOK BACK OVER THE YEAR OF 2023....

“The long awaited Town Regeneration Plan was introduced by Wexford County Council mid-year and consumed a lot of the Chamber’s time and energies over the past number of months. The plan has three prongs – the Town Centre (Phase 1), The Castle Quarter (Phase 2) and The Templeshannon Area (Phase 3). Some disquiet was voiced from the outset because of the County Council’s decision to proceed only with Phase 1 rather than taking all three phases in tandem.

The implementation of Phase l is dependent on Central Government Funding and an application for same is expected to be made shortly. However, Phase 1 is beset by problems relating to parking with the

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town’s business community strongly opposed to parking proposals contained there-in. The Chamber has hosted a series of meetings between the various parties, the elected representatives, the County Council and our three Oireachtas members. Regrettably, no consensus has yet emerged and all sides are as still divided as ever.

The Chamber asked our Vice President, Niall Byrne, a highly respected architect of international reputation, to put forward an enhanced plan for the regeneration of the town centre. His thought-provoking proposals have yet to be presented publicly [they were subsequently – Ed] but if and when they are the Chamber is confident of acceptance by all sides of the business divide in Enniscorthy.

The Town Centre First Team was appointed in February of this year and our Vice-President, Niall Byrne, is the Chamber’s representative on this commit-

tee. This committee met regularly throughout the year and are continuing to do so in the hope of getting agreement on the Phase 1 of the Regeneration Programme.

The Council’s Local and Community Plan was launched in March and the Chamber facilitated the launch by hosting a series of meetings both in Enniscorthy and Wexford.

A Chamber-led Forum on Carbon Emissions brought delegates from around the world to Enniscorthy in May for a twoday conference in The Riverside Park Hotel. Our former Presidents, BarbaraAnne Murphy and Michael Bennett were instrumental in bringing the conference to Enniscorthy which received huge press coverage and plaudits from all involved.

Also in May, Reynaers Aluminium of Forgelands, The Still, opened their spacious new and extended premises and the Chamber played a pivotal role in the

Slaney buSineSS & finance pre-opening arrangements. The celebrations were spread over two days and the Belgium Ambassador to Ireland was guest of honour at the official opening.

The Leader Programme 2023 – 2028 was also launched in May and here again the Chamber played an important role by informing community groups of the opportunities of obtaining funding for various projects undertaken.

Phase 1 of the Enniscorthy North Business District, a programme of improvements initiated by the Chamber, was completed in 2023 and negotiations for the commencement of Phase 2 are now a work in progress with Wexford County Council.

The Chamber’s Golf Classic in August was an outstanding success with 39 teams participating. It was the biggest classic of the year at Enniscorthy Golf Club and generated considerable finance for the Chamber.

Our annual luncheon in October was another great social success with Minister Simon Harris as Guest Speaker. An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar had agreed to attend but government business prevented him from attending on the day. However, in a letter to President Michael Dempsey, Mr. Varadkar said he very much looked forward to attending a Chamber organised function in the not too distant future.

The 90th anniversary of Enniscorthy Greyhound Track in May was an occasion of great celebration and here again the Chamber was very much involved in planning the event. We were invited to do so

by Myles Roban and as the dog track is central to the town’s economic prosperity, we were delighted to be involved.

The annual Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival was once again the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the Chamber in 2023. While it was months in the planning, the festival saw bigger crowds than ever before in attendance and in its immediate aftermath the festival was awarded two national awards for excellence. In addition, it is estimated the festival brought in excess of €5 million into the local economy over the August bank holiday weekend.

Asked by Wexford County Council to prepare an audit of all vacant properties in the Enniscorthy North Business District with a view to finding tenants, the Chamber set about this work in October and completed the task in a matter of weeks. The comprehensive report was presented to Director of Services, Caro-

Enniscorthy & District Chamber Presidents, past and present, at a recent function. L-R: John Burke O’Leary, Michael Bennett, and Michael Dempsey.

lyne Godkin, and will now form the basis of attracting new industry to the area. The Chamber also updated its files on vacant properties in Enniscorthy town and are now in a position to show such vacancies to potential business interests interested in setting up in the town.

A Town Centre Enhancement Scheme funded by central government was initiated by the Municipal Authority in early summer with the Chamber being asked to implement it. Thirty town-centre business premises expressed a keen interest in the project and a total of 23 finally participated. The end result is that the centre of Enniscorthy is looking much better than heretofore with what can only be described as many ‘drab’ buildings having been given a colourful face lift. Hopefully, this Enhancement Scheme might again be introduced in 2024 when other town centre premises might avail of the offering.

The Chamber’s annual Career Guidance Day for Transition Year students took place over two days in April in the Riverside Park Hotel with six of the seven post primary schools in the District participating. This event is supported by Waterford and Carlow RTCs and sponsored by the Riverside Park Hotel.

Our meals-on-wheels programme continued throughout the year in conjunction with the SEHB. The Chamber co-ordinates the recipients list and organises the driver rota. At present 72 hot meals are dis-

tributed over the entire Enniscorthy rural area three days per week and the Chamber’s participation meets our social obligation to the community.

Once again the Chamber took responsibility for the erection of Christmas lighting in Enniscorthy in 2023, and at the behest of Director of Services, Carolyne Godkin, also organised a Shop Window Display Competition to add to the festive cheer. A total of 27 commercial business premises in Enniscorthy and Bunclody participated and the competition was judged to be an outstanding success.

Overall, the Chamber was represented at over 100 public meetings in Enniscorthy during 2023 and hosted a further 21 meetings in the Chamber Office. We re-introduced our monthly ‘Wake-Up Wednesday’ talks, sponsored by AIB Bank, and hosted three Chamber lunches in Kilcannon Garden Centre.

We successfully negotiated three rent settlement disputes between tenants and landlords and found accommodation for four tenants setting up businesses in Enniscorthy.

Betty Kelly and Aislinn Cody answered hundreds of queries from visitors to the Chamber office during the year offering advice and assistance on the widest possible range of subjects. Collectively, we promoted Enniscorthy town and district at every available opportunity while carrying out the routine duties of a very busy office.” n

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Wexford company launches new European headquarters Next generation delivery management software company Scurri has just officially launched its new state of the art European headquarters. The Wexford-born, multi-millioneuro platform has opened a brand new operational base for over 100 workers with plans to recruit for 40 new roles across Sales, Marketing, Support and Engineering over the next 24 months. Based in the heart of Wexford Town (on Selskar Street), Scurri is an innovative delivery management platform that connects and optimises the entire online ordering, shipping and delivery process for retailers.

Following the company’s launch in 2010, Scurri has grown its global footprint, processing over €10.5 billion worth of shipments worldwide in 2023 alone.

To date, it has raised €15.3 million in investment through Gresham House, ACT & Episode, Enterprise Ireland and private angel investors.

Scurri's new headquarters will support both the planned expansion and staff across the UK and Europe. The company has become a leading player in the delivery management software space across Ireland, the UK and now Europe, supporting notable European eCommerce retailers.

The new state of the art headquarters, designed by Wexford architect Dermot Troy, is based around enhancing team collaboration. Its unique design features a modern central spine and a

Rory O’Connor, CEO and founder of Scurri.

Irish multi-million euro company Scurri announced in recent days the opening of its state of the art HQ in Wexford cutting edge glass interface which aims to encourage employees to build meaningful connections, while maintaining openness with the wider Wexford community. Other key features include an on-site gym, canteen, rooftop terrace and ‘chill and connect’ rooms for staff. Scurri’s central location also ensures employees can walk everywhere as part of the company’s wider mission to scale sustainably whilst enabling workers to perform at their best and helping to build those all important social connections.

Another highlight of the new headquarters is its ‘Art in the Lobby’ initiative, which invites local artists to showcase their creations each month. Scurri is also an avid supporter of the South East tech community, recently sponsoring and hosting the relaunch of the Wexford Tech Meetup.

Speaking about the launch of its new headquarters which will act as its global base, Rory O’Connor, CEO and founder of Scurri, said: “The opening of the office is another milestone in Scurri’s journey, which gets more and more exciting every day – particularly as Scurri has just completed a very successful 2024 trading period with over 100 million deliveries powered by Scurri technology. As we remain firmly focused on expansion and growth in 2024, it's very important to create a business base that gives our team the best quality of life possible, and Wexford provides the ideal location to make that work-life balance easier to achieve.

We’re very proud to have opened our new HQ in our hometown of Wexford.” n

A happy workforce at Scurri.

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Lot’s happening at GreenTechHQ GreenTechHQ’s own regular column on page 43 covers some of the news emanating from there, and here’s some additional updates...

GreenTechHQ’s Liz McGonigal was the January presenter for Enniscorthy & District Chamber’s Wake Up Wednesday, with a talk entitled “Traditional, Digital & AI – ever evolving marketing landscape”.

It was a well-received talk, with Liz outlining the dynamic changes in marketing, comparing traditional and digital approaches, and examining the gamechanging impact of Artificial Intelligence.

Key takeaways included outlining the premise that traditional marketing provides stability and familiarity, like the classics. Digital marketing, on the other hand, opens up exciting possibilities to reach, engage, and convert customers like never before. And AI is the secret sauce that empowers both approaches, making them smarter, more efficient, and more effective.

The reality is that marketing landscape is evolving, and we need to adapt. By combining the strengths of traditional and digital marketing with the power of Artificial Intelligence, we can stay ahead of the curve and create campaigns that resonate with our ever-changing audience. Nowadays, striking a balance between traditional and digital marketing is often the key to success. "Digital marketing is the heartbeat of modern campaigns. It's a dynamic and ever-evolving field that leverages online channels to connect with your audience.”

GreenTechHQ is running courses in AI and marketing – keep an eye on their website to see more.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– South East Green Tech Sustainability MeetUp Save the Date!

Join on Feb 28th at GreenTechHQ for the South East Green Tech (Cluster) Meet Up. Featured Speakers: Chatter 1: Ed Murphy of GreenTechHQ Talk: Power of innovation, sustainability, and the incredible potential we have to shape a greener future. We’re facing pressing environmental challenges, and it's time for problem solvers, like you, to step up. Let’s collaborate, support, facilitate and join together when businesses

thrive while preserving our planet's precious #ideationcreationreality Quick Chat 1: Irene Cadogen, Sustainable Enniscorthy Talk: Enniscorthy is a testament to the power of collective action and the belief that small changes can make a big difference. Hear how we set ambitious goals and to develop practical and innovative solutions to address the pressing challenges of climate change, sustainability and enhanced environmental protection.

Quick Chat 2: Brendan Sidney, Founder at Buildcert Retrofit Ltd and Owner at Retrofit Ireland Talk: The opportunity open to businesses within sustainability, retrofitting and engaging corporate and residential customers on the supports available. n

Milestone for Co. Wexford Chamber County Wexford Chamber is thrilled to have achieved a significant milestone in its Shop Local Voucher campaign. Over €2 million in vouchers have been sold since the initiative’s launch in 2020.

From the very beginning, the Shop Local Voucher campaign has been a resounding success. It has fostered a sense of community and support of local businesses throughout County Wexford.

The Shop Local Vouchers are designed to encourage people to choose local establishments for their shopping needs. They have become a powerful instrument in promoting economic growth and community solidarity. The Shop Local Vouchers are available for purchase at the Chamber offices in Wexford, Gorey and New Ross. n

7th February 2024 - Page 121

Slaney SlaneypetS ad

Dog owners should know....

Pets First operate a dog kennel in Tomanoole, Ballycarney, Enniscorthy, on behalf of Wexford County Council. For dogs being reclaimed, the owner must pay the fine for the dog being loose and any other pound costs. The contact number is 053 93 88339.

The dog warden is John Colfer who may be contacted at 087 6293043. The Dog Warden can seize dogs not under control in a public place and have them impounded. There is a fee of €50 for the surrender of unwanted dogs to the dog warden.

Control of Dogs All owners must ensure their dogs are:     

Licensed Under control when in public (on a lead) Have an identity tag with contact details for their owner on their collar Certain dogs must be muzzled and on a strong chain when in public Clean up after the dog if it fouls in a public place and dispose of the deposit in a bin.

Fines of €100 for minor breaches of the Act apply but fines of up to €2,500 may apply if the on-the-spot fine is not paid or for more serious breaches of the Control of Dogs Act. Remember, your dog can be a killer around sheep so keep it under control. n

DON'T RISK IT!

EVERY DOG MUST HAVE A DOG LICENCE An Post have now taken over the National Dog Licence Database

ANNUAL SINGLE DOG LICENCE IS €20 LIFETIME LICENCE IS €140 BOTH LICENCES CAN BE PURCHASED ONLINE AT WWW.LICENCES.IE OR AT ANY POST OFFICE GENERAL DOG LICENCES CAN STILL BE PURCHASED THROUGH WEXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL RECEIPTS OFFICE, CARRICKLAWN, WEXFORD T: 053 919 6000

MAXIMUM FINE €2,500

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Attending the ‘Gallagher Ferrycarrig 5 Mile’ race on 14th January 2024.

Slaney petS

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy.

T: (053) 9233187, 9236674.

F: (053) 9236674.

E: moynevet@gmail.com

VET DIARY FOR FEB The 1st of February, the beginning of Spring, and the heraldings of Spring are the snowdrops peeking their heads above ground and a new dawn is beginning. The astrologers say it’s the age of Aquarius which is the rise of the feminine. St Brigid's day is the 1st of February and she was traditionally the powerhouse in Irish folklore down through the centuries. In old Ireland the law of the land was the Brehon Laws and seemingly the wife was the owner of the land and held the sway of power in the household.... maybe nothing has changed there!!!

In Nature, the feminine often holds the reign of power too. For instance in a wild herd of horses it’s the lead mare that is the boss, not the stallion. Similarly with a herd of elephants.

A lady who worked and studied the inate behaviour of horses, Linda Kohanov, wrote several books on the same such as 'The Tao of Equus' and 'The Power of the Herd'... In these books she shows how we can learn so much from how horses work together and she has gone on the lecture circuit and advises big corporations on these principles. The reason the big corporations employ her is that she advocates, like horses, for everyone pulling together for the common good and the results speak for themselves. The workforce are happier, more productive, and clients more satisfied, and in turn more

with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital

repeat business for the company. They use the principle, ‘A rising tide lifts all boats’ and this attitude of helping your fellow worker helps both parties feel good and fosters harmony and prosperity.

The greatest inventor of the 20th century was considered to be a guy called Victor Schauberger and he was a forester by trade. He came up with so many inventions in the early part of the 20th century and always said, 'If you could mimic nature that is the best we could do.'

There are several Schauberger institutes in Europe to this day using his principles to enhance and improve our farmimg, our water quality, and work with Nature in a more harmonius way.

They say we used to worship God as a Mother and many traditional tribes still do. This is the respect and esteem they held for Mother Earth. Maybe the tide is beginning to turn and we are beginning to see the wisdom of these people, these tribes, and of how animals interact for the common good. Getting back out into Nature is the first step for us... Heading to the woods, walking the beach with our dogs, and that feel-good factor is being a part of something bigger... returning to our roots.

I hope you enjoyed your St Brigid’s day and the weekend out in Nature. You and your dog will be the better for it. n

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

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

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

7th February 2024 - Page 123

Slaney Slaney motoring ad

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

Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at

www.changinglanes.ie

BYD DOLPHIN The BYD Dolphin is one of the most anticipated new cars to arrive in Ireland in 2024 because it's one of the most budget-friendly EVs to go on sale in quite a while.

EVs have secured themselves a reputation thus far of being expensive, with many models pricing themselves above their petrol and diesel counterparts.

The tide is turning with many brands now cutting prices to entice buyers among the backdrop of a slowing EV market and in an effort to fend off the very plausible threat from new Chinese car brands - just like BYD. The BYD Dolphin has a starting price of just €25,570 for the Dolphin 44.9kWh with up to 340 km (WLTP) range and from €29,318 for the Dolphin 60.4kWh with 427 km (WLTP).

BYD Dolphin

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And beyond the quirky name, the Dolphin is a cheerful enough companion for the road.

It's pitched as a compact hatchback to take on the popular MG4 and Volkswagen ID.3.

It's part of BYD's 'Ocean Series', just like the newly launched BYD Seal four-door saloon.

It has a straightforward, practical shape as opposed to the sleeker and sportier MG and ID.3. But BYD clearly tried to stamp some trendy design touches on it like the attractive colour palette, contrasting roof option, alloy wheels with coloured inserts, full LED lighting and a smart full-width light bar at the rear.

It uses BYD's very own 'Blade Battery', which is a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery as opposed to the lithium ion batteries we've heard a lot about to date. They are cheaper to make and do without precious metals like

cobalt and nickel, which is an advantage.

Inside the Dolphin will sit five and there is a tremendous amount of legroom in the back seat. Built on a bespoke electric vehicle platform, there is a flat floor the full width though it's still a compact car so it's most comfortable for two back there.

At 345 litres, the boot is a little disappointing though it will be perfectly adequate for some.

It's smaller than the boot in the MG4 and ID.3, which may limit its appeal for family buyers.

The Dolphin's cabin is full of character with a strong aquatic theme. The door handles are shaped like a dolphin's flipper and there's a curved finish to the dashboard that does resemble waves on the sea.

The Design model gets a beautiful, coloured interior. It was dark blue in my test car with

Slaney motoring some red stitching in the steering wheel and red trim around the air vents.

has an 11kW onboard AC charger.

Fast charging rates are less impressive at 88kW compared to key rivals but it will still manage to go from 10-80% in 40 minutes.

There are cheaper hard plastics in places but they are well-disguised among lots of soft touch materials in the dashboard and doors. The vegan leather seats with integrated headrests are another highlight.

The digital technology on board is a little hit and miss. There is a small digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, yet the icons are quite small and it appears quite cluttered.

An impressive 12.8-inch electric rotatable touchscreen is well-placed in the centre of the dash. It looks great with crisp graphics yet simple tasks like adjusting the fan speed require a few prods of the screen if you are using Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, which still require a cable to connect.

Otherwise it's an exceptionally wellequipped car with standard features including lots of safety and driver assistance features, 360-degree camera, heated front seats with power adjustment and automatic lights with high beam assist.

The Dolphin uses a 204hp motor to send power to the front wheels. It's nippy enough and there's no problem picking up speed quickly to join motorways or for overtaking manoeuvres.

Interior It's not the most exciting car to drive in the world but it's easy to place on the road and keep in lane on the motorway. It feels solid and comfortable though it does get quite noisy at high speeds on the motorway, which might limit its appeal as a car for long commutes. A Volkswagen ID.3 is more refined in this manner.

There is a heat pump to improve the efficiency of the battery in cold weather and two 'strengths' possible of regenerative braking. Overall efficiency is good with my average sitting at about 16.3kWh per 100 kilometres during my time with the car. This put me on track for a real world driving range of about 370 kilometres between battery charges.

When it does come to charging, the Dolphin

Beyond the sedate looks, the Dolphin is a cheerful car that will make a perfect family runabout.

For the price, it has a very nice interior that makes rivals appear a bit dull and sparse. It's exceptionally well-equipped and while the screen is not without its foibles, overall this is a pleasant car to be behind the wheel of.

It ticks the box for comfort without coming close to much excitement behind the wheel, yet it offers good reliable range. In short, the BYD Dolphin is a perfectly capable compact electric hatchback. If you’re interested in going electric and don’t want to spend a huge amount of money, it's a great option.

Model tested: BYD Dolphin Design Price: €31,192 Battery: 60.4Wh Range: 427 kilometres (WLTP) Power: 204 hp Torque: 310 Nm Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 7 seconds Motor Tax: €120 per year n

Chapel Lane, Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, Y21 XH64

AUTO REPAIR ENNISCORTHY

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

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

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

7th February 2024 - Page 125

Slaney Slaney motoring ad

Audi Ireland Brand Director, Damien O’Sullivan, presenting the 2024 Audi Dealer of the Year award to Audi Wexford Director Diarmaid Boland and Audi Wexford General Manager Stephen Redmond.

Audi Wexford is Ireland’s Audi Dealer of the Year Audi Ireland was pleased last month to announce Audi Wexford as the Audi Dealer of the Year for 2024. The Audi Dealer of the Year programme recognises top performances within the Audi Dealer network in Ireland.

Commenting on the award, General Manager of Audi Wexford Stephen Redmond said: “At Audi Wexford, we pride ourselves on our first class customer experience. From our knowledgeable and friendly sales staff to our comprehensive and efficient service department, our pri-

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ority is to make the process of buying and servicing your Audi as enjoyable as possible. We are thrilled to have been recognised as Audi Dealer of the Year for 2024, it is a true testament to the vibrant, hard-working team here at Audi Wexford.”

Audi Ireland Brand Director Damien O’Sullivan added: “The Audi Dealer of the Year gives us an opportunity to reflect on the years’ work, and to highlight top performance in the Audi Dealer network. I am very happy to present Audi Wexford with the Audi Dealer of the Year

title and would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Stephen and his team on this great achievement. I extend my thanks to all of our partners across the Audi Dealer network in Ireland for continuing to represent Audi’s journey of progress with tenacity.”

Audi Wexford is the authorised Audi dealership for Wexford, comprising of new and used car sales, as well as full service and aftersales functions with an Audi Repairs and Service Centre with Audi Genuine Parts and Accessories. n

The Green, Clonard Village Centre, Wexford, Y35 R288 T: 083 1172909

If you suffer from lack of sleep due to ongoing health issues, such as back or body pain, twisting and turning at night, age related, menopause/perimenopause etc, then choose the custom-designed O’Suan Sleep Support System – a series of carefully selected, high quality materials (cashmere wool, natural latex, coconut fibres and silk) layered according to your partricular body pressure over 2,000 individual pocket springs and encased in an easily removable, washable cover.

To find out more or to book a FREE Consultation and Scan (using cutting edge pressure mapping technology), drop in to the O'Suan Sleep showroom located at The Green, Clonard Village, Wexford Town, Y35 R288.

Or contact Ray or Luke on: 083-1172909, email: wexford@osuansleep.com, www.osuansleep.com

Slaney Slaney Sport ad

Patrick Stafford

In January, Wexford FC announced a new agreement with Stafford Crane Group (SCG), which will see the US-based company invest in the club’s academy structure. Stafford Crane Group is led by Wexford native Patrick (Podge) Stafford (pictured above), and is providing a substantial investment to support the development of the club’s professional structure. The investment will take place with immediate effect.

Wexford FC and the Stafford Crane Group have outlined the following strategic aims of their partnership that will add professionalism and standards internally within Wexford FC. These include:  Development of the Academy in phases, by implementing new structures with an underpinned strategic approach. This will be achieved through investment in coaching, player development and conditioning, and upgrades to existing facilities.  Supplementing expertise from Reading FC and other European academies to help develop a pre-academy programme. Wexford FC’s partnership

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U.S. COMPANY INVESTS IN WEXFORD FC

Tony Doyle

with Reading FC will provide idea and knowledge exchange surrounding player development.

would encourage other Wexford natives living overseas to consider investing in Wexford FC.”

 Improvement of sports performance analysis for players in the academy.

The club will work with FSCR (Football, Strength, Conditioning and Rehab), an elite performance and sports injury facility that is currently partnered with leading football clubs in the UK.

Stafford Crane Group, with a workforce of over 200 employees, is headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, since 2004 and is the largest provider of fleet tower cranes for rental in the Southwest of the United States.

Over the last 20 years, SCG has also seen expansion into new markets such as South America and Europe. As well as rental, SCG sell tower cranes, which are manufactured in the company’s factory in Portugal. They also provide education and training services for tower crane technicians and operators.

 Creation of football pathways through education for young professionals.  Encouragement of greater community involvement in the club. The club is aiming to continue its work of building relationships with players, parents, and coaches as well as local businesses.

Commenting on the investment, Mr Stafford said: “I am honoured to be in a position to support Wexford FC’s academy, to invest in young players and offer them opportunities that I would have relished as a young boy. The investment by Stafford Crane Group is aimed to strengthen the club’s academy and employ a professional structure which will help players and the club achieve success.”

Wexford FC CEO, Tony Doyle (pictured above), also welcomed the investment: “On behalf of Wexford FC, I am delighted to see this sort of investment from a Wexford native now living overseas as it shows the belief in and support for this club.

Such an investment from Stafford Crane Group allows Wexford FC to build on the existing strengths of the academy, with hopes in the coming years of making it the leader in League of Ireland academy set ups. This investment is an excellent support of sport in our locality, and I

Wexford FC was established in 2007 and the club currently play in the First Division of the League of Ireland. The club’s home ground is Ferrycarrig Park, but they will move to a new state of the art stadium on the SETU Campus in Wexford Town within the next three years. The club, led by Chairman Tony Doyle, has a mission to build a sustainable, successful future for Wexford FC. This mission starts with the grassroots, encompassing both the Men’s and Women’s football teams in Wexford, and the wider South-East. n

Slaney Sport

The race is on!

The race is on for Co. Wexford schools...

A reminder has been sent to Wexford schools by three of Ireland’s best-known athletes – World Para Rowing champion, Katie O’Brien and Olympians, sprinters Phil Healy and David Gillick – advising teachers and pupils alike that the search to find ‘Ireland’s fittest school 2024’ has now gone live.

Running until the end of March, the top four schools in Ireland, north and south, will progress to a live ‘grand final’ at which the prize package will include €8,000 worth of sports equipment.

Katie O’Brien, David Gillick and Phil Healy.

Working with Fyffes, their aim is to find a school whose focus on fitness will replicate the success of previous ‘Ireland’s Fittest School’ winners – Scoil Na Croise Naofa, Dunfanaghy (2022) and Gilson National School, Oldcastle (2023). Schools can register at www.fyffesfitsquad.ie n

Wexford hurling

Enniscorthy rugby

Well done to the Wexford hurlers on winning the Walsh Cup final against Galway on 28th January and then securing a creditable draw away against Kilkenny in the first round of the national hurling league. A great start to the season. n

Keep up to date with all club news, results, etc on the club website: http://www.enniscorthyrugby.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScorthyRugby n

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Wexford Borough District Civic Awards for sport County Hall, Wexford, 26thJanuary 2024

Top: Mary McDonagh, Francis McDonagh and Cllr Maura Bell.

Above: Mayor Cllr John Hegarty with Gregg Currid on behalf of his son Alex Currid, snooker.

Right: Harpist Shelly O’Grady who played during the evening.

Below: John Hegarty with Liam Talbot, gymnastics.

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PAT’S PICTURE PARADE

OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Above left: John, Ciara, Cathleen, Shane and Anne Howard with Ciara who got a hockey awa Above right: Mayor Cllr John Hegarty with Tadhg O’Shaughnessy, special olympics.

Below left: Mayor Cllr John Hegarty with Conor Fahy, rugby.

Below right: Mayor Cllr John Hegarty with Kirstin Brennan and Lily Stewart, gymnastics.

Slaney Sport

E

H

ard.

Above left: Kalib Walsh and Sophie Lawlor, boxing.

Above centre: Mayor Cllr John Hegarty with Sophie Lawlor, hockey.

Above right: Cole Hayden, kickboxing, getting his reward.

Top right: Mayor Cllr John Hegarty with Jake Somers, kickboxing.

Mayor Cllr John Hegarty with Philip Wasilewiski, Soccer.

Sinead McDonnell receives her hockey award.

Left: Mayor Cllr John Hegarty with Dean Walsh, boxing.

Right: Cllr Fom Forde, Lily Steward, gymnastics, Pat Ryan, Dave, Laura and Molly Steward.

Below left: Mayor Cllr John Hegarty with Kaylem Harnett, soccer.

Below centre: Ciara Howard, hockey, Cllr George Lawlor, and Emma Simmons, hockey.

Below right: Sharon O’Shaughnessy, Tadhg O’Shaughnessy, special olympics, Cathal and Cara O’Shaughnessy.

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GAA Seana Ghael Awards 20 Each year as part of the GAA’s commendable cradle-to-grave ethos of recognising the contribution made over a lifetime of dedicated service to the Association, Wexford GAA hosts the very popular and well attended Seana Ghael Awards.

These awards honour members who have devoted their entire lives to their clubs and the GAA over years of committed service.

‘These men and women’, according to Michael Foley, MC for the nostalgic event held at the Ferrycarrig Hotel, ‘are the bedrock of the Association and the life blood of our clubs, whether they cut the grass, take the minutes of meetings, mark the pitch, sweep the dressing rooms, put out the flags or play for the jersey, clubs couldn’t exist without them and today’, he continued, ‘is all about recognising their valuable contribution’.

L-R: Derek Kent (Leinster Chairman), Sam McCauley (recipient), Bishop Ger Nash.

Guest speaker, Leinster Chairman Derek Kent, said that he was humbled to be in the company of heroes as he looked around the gathering at men like Mickory Stafford, Colm Doran, Michey Sheils, Michael Kinsella, Ned Buggy, Joe Sheehan, and so many others.

‘This is a day’, he said, ‘to reminisce on bygone days and renew old acquaintances with friend and even foe’.

Derek continued by thanking the wonderful organising committee for the marvellous job they do year after year especially hardworking Secretary Martin Breen, Matt Mernagh and Jimmy Curtis. ‘This poignant event’, he went on, ‘is not just for the men and women being honoured here today, it’s for their families who through the years may have had to sacrifice much to the Association and on behalf of the GAA I would like to say that we appreciate each and every one of today’s recipients and their families and thank them for all that they have given to the organisation’.

Rapparees Starlights clubmen Tom Boland and Sam McCauley were presented with their awards by Leinster Chairman Derek Kent and Bishop Ger Nash, and the club would like to extend its thanks and deepest appreciation to both recipients.

L-R: Derek Kent (Leinster Chairman), Tom Boland (recipient), Bishop Ger Nash.

L-R: Derek Kent (Leinster Chairman), Joe Sheehan (recipient), Bishop Ger Nash.

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– WORDS & PICS BY MARIA NOLAN

L-R: Derek Kent (Leinster Chairman), Mickory Stafford (recipient), Bishop Ger Nash.

Slaney Sport

024 by Maria Nolan

Great deals this Spring at Enniscorthy Golf Club

L-R: Maria Nolan, Mickory Stafford (recipient), Derek Kent (Leinster Chairman).

L-R: Derek Kent (Leinster Chairman), Colm Doran (recipient), Bishop Ger Nash.

L-R: Derek Kent (Leinster Chairman), Seamus O’Toole (recipient), Bishop Ger Nash.

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Gallagher Ferrycarrig 5 Mile R

PA PICTURE

OUT AND A PHOTOG PAT O’C 087-28

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Slaney Sport

Road Race 14th January 2024

AT’S E PARADE

ABOUT WITH GRAPHER CONNOR 870006

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Slaney hiStory Slaney ad & heritage

The hidden airships of Johnstown Castle Roll back a hundred years or so to 1918 and the only out-of-the-ordinary flying things you might see high in the skies over Co. Wexford were a murmuration of starlings, a skein of Brent Geese heading from Newfoundland to the North Slobs or a gulp of swallows on their annual visit from South Africa.

Then just visualise, never having seen such before, you are near Johnstown Castle.

Emerging from the surrounding forest, is something the size and colour of the old Loreto school in Wexford town, or the Presentation school in Enniscorthy, lifting itself of its own accord from behind the trees beside one of the three lakes, into the air and floating away over Rosslare out to the Irish Sea or Saint George’s Channel. The only sign of humans were the four or five men in a tiny box slung underneath, one with a machine gun.

This was the heavenly vision which caused people for miles around to lift their heads from toiling in the fields of south County Wexford and stare at it until it left and headed over Rosslare and Tuskar Rock to where and why, very few in the county then knew. They might have seen or heard of the US flying boats in secret hangars in Ferrybank beside the bridge at Wexford town but nothing like this mysterious and secret phenomenon.

The vision was explained by Eddie Taylor, a retired civil servant, native of Drumcondra in Dublin, living for years near Wexford town

and whose first hobby is building tiny models of monstrous buildings or machines.

More than 80 people, among them historians, Jarlath Glynn, Bernard Browne, Pat Hackett, Peter Millar, Brian Matthews, former president of the society and Dr. Noel Culleton, former chief executive of Johnstown Castle, listened and gazed in wonder as he told the story and showed slides of the airships at Johnstown Castle in 1918 and 1919 – the time of the first World War. The airships were there from May 1918 to March 2019.

He told the rapt audience, all members of the Wexford Historical Society, in White’s Hotel, that the airships were surveillance machines, or scouts used by the Royal Naval Air Service (RNAS), predecessor to the Royal Air Force (RAF). They were filled with gas and they floated hundreds of feet in the air over St George’s Channel, watching out for threats to convoys of ships in war-time.

The airships, which he dubbed ‘mooring with a difference’, were, he said 143 feet and four inches long and 30 feet wide. They were powered by specially built Rolls Royce Hawk, 75 horsepower engines. Six of them, from a total of 77 built nationally and used mainly at the Western Front, were sent from Pembroke across in Wales to Johnstown Castle where they were moored behind the trees. Surrounding them were a number of tents, presumably homes for soldiers guarding or protecting them.

Photograph of SSZ 37, similar to the SSZ 56 (acquired from the Internet) moored in the forest at Johnstown Castle.

Eddie Taylor first came across the airship when he saw a photograph in Johnstown Castle and later the same photograph in the book County Wexford in the Rare ‘Oul Times, Vol III, 2007, by the late Nicky Furlong and John Hayes. Liking things that are ‘strange and different’, he decided to build a tiny wooden model of the airship that he saw and thus began a quest to find out more, as he likes his models to be accurate representations and also to have their entire context and their provenance. His model of the airships moored at Johnstown will be at a scale of 1:72 or in other words six foot to every one inch. ‘It is still a work in progress,’ he said.

Although he has researched the airships meticulously, even ‘getting to know’ the officers and air crew, and getting the obit of the commanding officer H.L. Fuller of Arran Lodge, Crossabeg, he feels there are still big gaps in the story of the airships at Johnstown Castle.

Eddie Taylor implores anyone who might have old photographs or notes or newspaper cuttings, or anything associated with them to get in touch with him. Most of the records of the airships are in the National Archives at Kew, Richmond in London, but it would take lots of time and money to physically go there and trawl through the thousands of manuals and records there that have not been yet been digitised.

Eddie Taylor would love to hear from you at: edtaylor@eircom.net – Words & Pics by Micheál Mac an tSaoir

A section of the 80-member audience for Eddie Taylor’s talk about the airships at Johnstown Castle.

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Below left: Eddie Taylor, Pat Hackett and Eddie’s son Eoin Taylor. Below right: Patricia Byrne, Kyle, Lorraine Hynes, Slaney Street, Wexford, and Carmel Foley, Enniscorthy, at the talk in Whites Hotel.

Slaney hiStory & heritage

Cross-section of the attendance at the talk by Eddie Taylor.

L-R: Nick Cloake, Castlebridge, Edmund O’Byrne, Bridgetown, Dominick Berridge, Adamstown, and Willie French of Loughgerald, Enniscorthy.

Above: Page from County Wexford in the Rare ‘Oul Times, Volume 3, Furlong and Hayes, photograph from M.J. O’Connor collection.

Below left: Page from County Wexford in the Rare ‘Oul Times, Volume 3, Furlong and Hayes, photographs by Nicholas Kelly.

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Slaney hiStory Slaney ad & heritage

An historic family by John Dunne Edward Richards-Orpen was born on 20th October 1884 in London. His father was the notable historian Goddard Henry Orpen, best known today for writing Ireland Under the Normans. This four-volume book is an account of Irish history from the Norman invasion in 1169 to the murder of the Earl of Ulster in 1333.

go on to have three children: John, Virginia and Charmain Dorcas. Edward served in the Army service core during World War I, volunteering in December 1916. The effectiveness of his work led to him being rapidly promoted and by the time he left the army in February 1919 he had achieved the rank of captain.

Edward’s mother Adela Elizabeth Orpen was also a successful writer with her work appearing in both New York and London journals. Her two most notable works were both non-fictional. These were The Chronicles of the Sid; or, The Life and Travels of Adelia Gates, a book about Adela’s childhood guardian’s travels across North Africa and the Middle East, and Memories of the Old Emigrant Days in Kansas, 1862-1865, about Adela’s American childhood.

When Edward inherited Monksgrange following his mother’s death in 1927, he established Grange Furniture Industry.

Despite the fact that this led to him becoming secretary of the Arts and Crafts Society of Ireland in 1928, it was ultimately an unsuccessful enterprise and ceased operation in 1933.

Edward also had an older sister, Lillian Iris Orpen. In 1900 the family moved to Monksgrange after Adela’s father Edward Moore Richards transferred ownership of the estate to her.

On 15th April 1914, Edward married Margaret Tomalin with whom he would

Edward Richards-Orpen involved himself in a wide range of organisations in his effort to contribute to the new Irish state.

He inherited his father’s love of history which led to him being appointed to the Co. Wexford local monuments advisory committee in 1931 and to his active membership of the National Monuments Council from 1944 to his death. Edward was also a member of the Irish Grassland Association, the Statistical and Social In-

quiry of Ireland, the County Wexford Beekeeper’s Association, as well as the committee which set up An Taisce in 1947. Edward was also a supporter of the Irish Red Cross, the Gate Theatre, the Royal Dublin Society and the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland.

His most significant contributions to Ireland came in the areas of agriculture and economics. His involvement in the formation of the National Farmers’ and Ratepayers’ League in 1932 would first lead to his being at the heart of discussions on these issues inside Fine Gael and eventually to his appointment as an Independent Senator to the 6th Seanad in 1948 by Taoiseach John A. Costello where he served until 1951. Edward also wrote about agricultural and economic issues in his column in the Irish Independent where he contributed over 70 articles between 1947 and 1960.

Edward Richards-Orpen died in 1967 and is buried at Askinvillar. The following year the Edward Richards-Orpen Memorial Trust was established. Today this trust manages the Monksgrange Archives, a large collection of papers, photographs and collectables of the Richards and Orpen families some of which

Cllr Ó Súilleabháin's revised book Red Books Press, run by the innovative Wally O’Neill, was delighted to launch the revised copy of Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin's book Towards the Mountains of Liberty: 1798 at the Northern tip of County Wexford in the Gap Pub in Ballythomas (the Wicklow Gap) on 16th December 2023.

This book tells the story of the 1798 Rising in North Wexford and brings our ancestors’ inspirational story to a new generation. We are taken into the battles of Ballyellis, Ballygullen, Tubberneering and Arklow and witness the heroic deeds of the Catholic Miles Byrne of Monaseed, the Protestant Anthony Perry of Inch, and numerous other unsung heroes.

The book makes an ideal present for history buffs and casual readers alike and is available at the Red Books shops in Wexford and Gorey and on the website www.theirishbookshop.com n

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"Towards the Mountains of Liberty: 1798 at the Northern tip of County Wexford"

Slaney environment

Major tree planting in Enniscorthy

On 12th January 2024, Enniscorthy Technology Park was planted with 2,500 native trees as part of the ‘100 Million Trees Project’. The project, which was launched in late 2022 in Co. Wexford, is a national communitydriven initiative developed by brothers, Richard and David Mulcahy.

The project’s aim is to plant 100 million native Irish trees throughout the next decade to reverse the environmental damage caused by the reduction of forests worldwide.

The project’s ambitious aim will be achieved through densely planting between 1,000 and 2,500 native Irish trees at a time across small areas of land using ‘the Miyawaki method’. Named after Japanese Botanist, Professor Akira Miyawaki, who developed the technique in the 1970s. By using this method, the trees grow considerably faster, denser, are more biodiverse, and most importantly create a very rapid carbon sink and provide excellent areas of biodiversity.

Cllr John Fleming, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Cllr John O’Rourke, Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy

Municipal District, Cllr Aidan Browne and Cllr Cathal Byrne were all in attendance. Enniscorthy Tidy Towns and Sustainable Enniscorthy were represented by local volunteer Billy Murphy. Richard Mulchay and representatives from Forestry Services were also in attendance.

many local volunteers for their commitment and dedication in keeping Enniscorthy beautiful and said that this project will provide so many benefits to the local community and for biodiversity.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council, Cllr John Fleming, welcomed all and said, ‘It is great to see another site in Co. Wexford planted with native trees as part of the 100 million trees project.’

Richard Mulcahy said, “We were absolutely thrilled to meet our launch objective of planting 20,000 trees in year 1 but, by this April, we aim to have 200,000 to 250,000 new young native tree varieties planted in the ground at over 75 different sites around the country.”

Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, Cllr John O’Rourke, thanked the

www.100milliontreesproject.ie Email: info@100milliontreesproject.ie n

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Looking forward to the Deposit Return Scheme The local Tidy Towns groups around Co. Wexford are delighted that the Deposit Return Scheme is now active since 1st February 2024. They believe it is a new and exciting circular initiative which will transform the way we think about empty drinks bottles and cans.

The refundable deposit will incentivise us to return these containers so producers can make new bottles out of old bottles and new cans out of old cans, saving materials, energy and reducing litter.

The Deposit Return Scheme works by charging anyone who buys a drink a small deposit for the plastic bottle or can that it comes in. Customers get this money back when they return the container to a retailer or other collection point to be recycled.

The scheme will help to tackle the estimated one billion plastic bottles and 1.6 million aluminium cans that are thought to currently end up in landfills/incinerators or littered in the environment. Pretty soon litterbugs will be effectively throwing money away if they don’t change their behaviour. n

BELOW IS A VERY HANDY GUIDE BY DUNNES STORES REGARDING THE NEW 'DEPOSIT RETURN SCHEME' WHICH CAME INTO EFFECT NATIONALLY ON 1ST FEBRUARY... SO MAKE SURE TO USE THE NEW MACHINES INSTALLED IN DUNNES AND MOST OTHER RETAILERS...

YOUR RETURNS ARE NOW WORTH MONEY!

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Slaney environment

Enniscorthy’s litter status gets the thumbs up CONGRATS TO ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS AND THE LOCAL COUNCIL... WE NOW RANK 8TH BEST OUT OF 40 TOWNS/ CITIES IN IRELAND AND ABOVE EUROPEAN NORMS...

Full report of An Taisce – IBAL Anti-Litter League, Survey 2, 2023: "A very strong performance from Enniscorthy with six top ranking sites, with a further three just shy of top ranking. There were no heavily littered sites. Clearly a careful eye is kept on the closed down / vacant / To Let premises (e.g., along Blackwater approach road, Slaney Street and Main Street) as there was no litter directly associated with them.

A welcome feature in Enniscorthy was the public water fountain across from Fair Green.

Top-ranking sites included Slaney Street, Enniscorthy Train Station and the River Walk – the latter is a wonderful waterside amenity which has been lovingly tended and respected by the users.

Aldi Car Park, Kiltealy Road: Grade A. A very freshly presented and maintained car park environment with minimal litter items.

Car park surface, markings and signage were in good order. Apart from some shopping receipts along one perimeter the area was very good with regards to litter.

R702 Kiltealy Approach Road: Grade A. Much of this approach route passes through residential area before reaching commercial premises – the overall first impression created along the road was a very good one. There were no obvious litter issues at the ‘No Dumping' signage at a field on the righthand side, opposite the education centre.

refill station close to Fair Green is a great addition to the area.

Wexford Approach Road: Grade B+. Just after one of the 'Welcome to Enniscorthy, Don't Litter' signs, there was a smattering of food related litter on the right-hand side. Closer to the town was clear of litter – the shrubbery along this stretch was nicely presented. Items included sweet papers, mineral cans, fast-food wrappers and plastic bottle.

Main Street: Grade A. The flower shop and 'off licence' add some lovely colour in terms of abundant planting and colourful painting in an otherwise not very colourful street. There were plenty of closed down premises, but no litter was associated with same. Attractive paving and 'olde' style directional signage looked well. Litter bin / poop and scoop facility / cigarette butt unit were all freshly presented.

Blackwater Approach Road: Grade B+. There was food related litter along the outskirts of this approach route - simply too many items for the top litter grade. The litter was not associated with the closed down / boarded up properties closer to the town clearly a careful eye is kept on these.

Enniscorthy Court House Environs: Grade B+. The Court House building looked very well, and area was further enhanced by lovely wooden seating. A quantity of food-related litter in a corner, to the right of the gate, took away from an otherwise well-presented environment.

Slaney Street: Grade A. A short, narrow, pedestrianised street with attractive paving throughout and several quotes underfoot.

Many of the premises were closed down / vacant / To Let but there was no litter directly associated with them. The overall impression along Slaney Street was a very good one – it was excellent with regards to litter.

Enniscorthy Train Station: Grade A. The façade / paving / visitor information noticeboard / low-lying planting were all very freshly presented. There were no obvious litter issues along the station platforms. This site was very much deserving of the top litter grade.

Fair Green: Grade B. A freshly presented 'open' park space with playground, seating and tree planting. The area close to the Tour de France sculpture / seating / bins was clear of litter – not so the grass area - all items were food related - plastic bottles, coffee cups, fast-food wrappers, mineral cans and sweet papers. Water

River Walk: Grade A. A lovely waterside amenity. The pathway associated grass area, planting, signage, lifebelts, seating etc. were all in excellent condition between the bridge, by the playground and out to the pedestrianised bridge. Playground equipment was in good order and there was plenty of signage relating to the natural environment just outside the playground." n

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ENNISCORTHY COUNCILLOR AIDAN BROWNE CALLS ON COUNCIL TO INSTALL SALT STORAGE BINS IN ENNISCORTHY TOWN AND DISTRICT...

Outlining the need for salt storage bins, Cllr. Aidan Browne pointed to how salt storage bins “are a very effective way to improve road safety conditions in Enniscorthy town and district. With children going to school and people going to work, there are a lot of cars out and about early in the morning and these salt storage bins can serve as a great way for people to quickly respond to frosty conditions on roads and footpaths.

Cllr Aidan Browne

“I am aware of County Councils in other parts of the country installing and maintaining these salt storage bins... I believe it’s time for Wexford County Council to follow suit in an effort to make our roads safer." n

For the past 25 years the National Spring Clean has been mobilising volunteers from all over Ireland who have joined in to tackle the issue of litter.

Will you play a part of making a difference this year?

Registrations for #SpringClean24 are now open. Join again this year and help make this year the biggest anti-litter campaign ever!

Register here: https://nationalspringclean.org/ n

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns award winners

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns Annual Awards held on 31st January 2024 at the Riverside Park Hotel. See full report pages 20-21.

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Slaney environment

Wexford Co. Council’s community climate action programme The Wexford Co. Council Community Climate Action Programme is now open for applications. The online application form is available here: https://wexfordcoco.submit.com.

The closing date for receipt of applications is 6th March 2024.

The Programme aims to support and build low carbon communities across County Wexford by providing funding for initiatives that facilitate direct climate action within local communities.

The fund is open to not-for-profit community groups, clubs and voluntary organisations. Funding for 100% of the cost of a climate action project is available through this scheme, up to a maximum of €100,000 per organisation.

Project examples could be insulation of community buildings, solar panels, bicycle repair, rainwater harvesting, upcycling, community gardens / allotments,

etc. Full details on the Programme are available here: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/environment/climate-changeand-energy-management/community-cl imate-action-programmeccap/community

For more information, contact: Clinton Donovan, Community Climate Action Officer, Wexford County Council.

An information webinar was hosted online on Wednesday 17th January. This webinar outlined how to make an application, basic guide to emissions calculations, planning permission information, case studies, assessment criteria, etc.

More details on the Programme are available here: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/environment/climate-change-and-energy-management/community-climate-action-pr ogramme-ccap/community n

Email: clinton.donovan@wexfordcoco.ie

Sustainable Enniscorthy’s next Repair Cafe Save the date for the next Sustainable Enniscorthy Repair Cafe which will take place on Wednesday, 6th March 2024, 5:30pm – 8:30pm, at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy. More details will follow soon.

In the meantime, consider joining the free online group on ChangeX to keep up to date at: https://www.changex.org/ie/repaircafe/enniscorthy-co-wexford1/events/sustainable-enniscorthy-repai r-cafe www.sustainableenniscorthy.com https://www.facebook.com/Sustainabl eEnniscorthy n

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