Reliable advice on all aspects of the law since 1929
Solicitors & Commissioners for Oaths Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, Y21 W5T1 Tel: 053 92 33547 Email: info@fmclaw.ie
Left: Finishing Touches, Main Street, Enniscorthy, winner of the Best Christmas Window Display competition run by Enniscorthy Municipal District. L-R: Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager Claire Lawless, Finishing Touches staff member Amy Kavanagh Murphy, Finishing Touches proprietor Therese Gleeson, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Aidan Browne.
Above: Anne and Pat Dunne at the Oulart The Ballagh senior citizens’ party in Oulart Community Centre, 5th January 2025.
Welcome to the January issue of the Slaney News.
I hope everyone had a very happy Christmas and New Year. Unfortunately, this festive period coincided with the closure of two businesses in Enniscorthy. Put A Bow On It on Main Street was a wonderful, inviting shop which always looked exceptionally well and was a huge asset to the town. Proprietor Aoife thanks her loyal customers and also “Marie Mythen, Dee Greenwood, Sue Mernagh and my mam for many hours served over the last 14 years. You girls are the very best... It was my dream to open my own shop, and I loved everything about it, especially the lovely people who supported me. Big changes ahead for me but all for the better.”
A little further up Main Street, La Barista coffee shop is now also closed. This again was a unique, welcoming shop, with a personal touch, standing out as something different from the coffee shop chains which now dominate the offering in our larger towns and cities. On the better news front, Toss Kavanagh’s landmark pub on Enniscorthy’s east side has reopened under new management after several years of closure. And it looks like a new beauty shop/spa will be opening soon in a large vacant premises on Rafter Street. We wish these new businesses all the best for the future.
We include as always a huge number of photos taken around Enniscorthy, and beyond. If you would like to purchase any of our photos please get in touch by email at slaneynews@gmail.com
If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our online format. Tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has over 13,000 Followers. And, of course, if you like our format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you
– Frank Corcoran
SLANEY NEWS
Every Monday @10AM
Presentation Arts centre, Enniscorthy, Y21 X889
Every Tuesday @7PM IFA centre, Enniscorthy, Y21 N9F5
Barbara-Anne Murphy COUNCILLOR
Enniscorthy Castle Quarter concept
ALL THE CONTROVERSY SURROUNDING
THE ENNISCORTHY TOWN CENTRE
FIRST PLAN OVER RECENT MONTHS RELATED TO JUST ONE PART OF THE PLAN – MAINLY THE AREA OF THE MARKET SQUARE AND ADJOINING STREETS. THE CONCEPT FOR THE SECOND PART OF THE PLAN – ESSENTIALLY THE ENNISCORTHY CASTLE SITE, WAS MADE PUBLIC AT THE DECEMBER MEETING OF ENNISCORTHY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT.
This is just a 'Concept' plan at this stage, there has been no vote on it as yet. It will be the subject of input from the town's Councillors and the general public at upcoming public information events. And, crucially, the concept depends on government funding through the URDF funding process to get it off the ground. The likely cost is possibly €5-6 million.
Essentially the concept plan involves the demolition of the Castle nightclub and in its place restoring the walled garden that was originally part of the Castle grounds. The project planners and Councillors discussed various options for a second site
entrance at Slaney Place or Slaney Street but this is unlikely to form part of the current concept but may be an option at a future date.
Other features of the concept include an elevated viewing walkway (coloured yellow on graphic below) which will give excellent views of Vinegar Hill and the river, restoration of a tower that partially exists on the site, a lighting and projection box to allow outdoor cinema, public toilets, and possibly a new cafe on site also although
the latter was the subject of some debate with several Councillors favouring instead a space dedicated to items donated by the residents of Enniscorthy to the Castle and which are no longer on public display there. As a result of the Council meeting, Wexford Co. Council will now proceed with negotiations to buy a number of properties necessary for this project and will hope to recoup the expenditure through the URDF funding process. ■
Wexford General Hospital news...
Work on the new multi-storey car park at Wexford General Hospital began on 6th January and is expected to take 12 months, and work has also commenced on a permanent MRI Scanner, which should be ready for use early in 2026.
Work is expected to commence early next year on the new 97-bed Ward Block once the new multistorey car park is complete.
The hospital itself closed to visitors on December 30th following a number of outbreaks of Acute Infectious Gastroenteritis, Covid19 and Influenza. It is advisable to contact the hospital for updates before making any visits to patients there. ■
NIGHT CLASSES
MONDAY EVENING Spring 2025
Hobby and Leisure Classes
WEDNESDAY EVENING Spring 2025
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24th 8pm
All the 'Hits' Sunday Feb 16th 8pm
Enniscorthy CCTV will now proceed
Authorisation has been given by the Garda Commissioner for the CCTV Scheme for Enniscorthy and the civil works are due to commence later this month.
A total of 22 CCTV cameras will be installed at different locations within Enniscorthy Town.
A proposed amendment to the Bunclody CCTV Scheme was discussed at the CCTV Advisory Committee meeting that took place on 11th October 2024 and it was recommended that the amendment be forwarded for consideration by the Garda Commissioner. ■
Wexford Women’s Coalition celebrates Nollaig na mBan
Nollaig na mBan, which can be translated from Irish as ‘Women's Christmas’, is one of Ireland's biggest traditions and is observed on January 6th. This was celebrated by the Wexford Women’s Coalition when they joined staff of Wexford County Council to mark the day.
Traditionally, Nollaig na mBan was celebrated in homes around Ireland where women who had worked so hard over the Christmas period to provide food and festivities for their family took the day off cooking and other household duties to gather with friends. In more recent times, events to mark ‘Women’s Christmas’ or ‘Little Christmas’ have grown to include social events outside the home.
The Women’s Coalition which consists of the seven female Elected Members of Wexford County Council wish to ensure that this traditional day dedicated to women is highlighted in recognition of the role of women both inside and outside the home, and to keep the tradition alive and perhaps create new ones.
Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Chairperson of the Women’s Coalition, said, “It was important that everyone took the time today to celebrate the women in their lives that made them the person they are today.” ■
Cllrs Biddy Walsh, Barbara-Anne Murphy and Bridin Murphy celebrating Nollaig na mBan at Wexford Co. Council on 6th January 2025
Adam’s incredible achievement
ADAM HADRYS, A POLISH MAN LIVING IN ENNISCORTHY, HAS DONE IT! THE FIRST POLISH PERSON, AND ONLY THE SECOND PERSON EVER, TO HAVE RUN THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY FROM THE START TO FINISH –2,300 KILOMETRES – IN 14 ULTRA RACE STAGES, WITHIN A CALENDAR YEAR...
Adam says, "It was not easy at times. Apart from the fact that I had to complete 14 ultra runs in a year, it must be noted that organising this madness required sacrifice from my family and
friends. I had to combine all this with everyday duties. I did not know how to regenerate between these crazy runs and the time between each one was about 3-4 weeks. It was not easy when my father died in May. It wasn't easy when my ear infection kept coming back, when my hip hurt at the beginning of the challenge, and when my knee meniscus started to show up at the end of the challenge. It wasn't easy when I was hit by storms at night on the trail and the farmers' dogs were chasing me like a fox. It wasn't easy either when in the evenings and at night on the narrow roads the traffic was at a high risk of hitting me, or even killing me."
"During the whole year I learned a lot about myself in terms of covering long distances. I learned how to eat, how to dress, and what to carry with me on twenty-something-hour escapades. I also learned a lot about my own body, reaching the limits of my mental and physical endurance. I disproved assumptions by creating facts. I did it!"
Now that Adam's adventure / journey / challenge / ultra runs along the Wild Atlantic Way have come to an end, we hope he enjoyed a well deserved rest over the Christmas and New Year period. Congrats on your achievement Adam! Now, what’s on your agenda for 2025? ■
Cathal focusing on the Seanad
For the first time in the history of the State, the Wexford constituency is without a Fine Gael TD, so to secure Oireachtas representa tion for this area, Cllr Cathal Byrne has been nominated by Fine Gael in the Wexford consti tuency to contest the Seanad Elections, and is also being supported in his campaign by the Wicklow-Wexford constituency.
Cathal says, “I am delighted to confirm that I have been nominated by the Fine Gael party to contest the Seanad Éireann election on the Cultural and Educational Panel. This involves canvassing Councillors, TDs and Senators with the election on the 30th January! If elected I will be a strong voice for Wexford in Leinster House.”
Some of Cathal’s priorities include delivering the planned 97bed unit extension at Wexford General Hospital as well as expanded primary care and mental health services, and childcare for all families. On the infrastructure side, he will be focusing on the Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme, the N11/N25 Oylegate to Rosslare Bypass, and the Rosslare Europort masterplan. It's been a busy year for Cathal Byrne between the local elections, general election and now the race for the Seanad. We wish him good luck and every success. ■
KILCANNON GARDEN CENTRE AND RESTAURANT
Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 92 35514. Find us on www.reachability.ie and www.facebook.com/KilcannonGC
Kilcannon Garden Centre - Your Ultimate Garden Destination
Now is the time to get your garden ready as we move from winter to spring. Visit Kilcannon Garden Centre in Enniscorthy for expert advice. Our knowledgeable staff are on hand tohelp you select the right plants and care products to ensure your garden thrives as we approach spring. From beautiful indoor plants to essential garden care supplies, we have everything you need to keep your garden looking its best.
Don’t forget to stop by our restaurant for delicious home-cooked meals and freshly baked bread while you’re here! Opening Times: Monday to Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm, Sunday: Closed. Come and visit our garden centre today or simply pop in for a cup of coffee.
Stay connected with us! Follow Kilcannon Garden Centre on social media for gardening tips, special offers, and updates.
THE POLITICIAL ‘UNVEILING’ OF FORMING A GOVERNMENT
As elections go, the recent General Election was an uneventful and predictable affair. The results tallied with the trends of the polls. The most interesting part of the whole spectacle was observing the acts of some mainstream pundits.
To some the General Election is their All-Ireland final. So observing the coverage of the campaign at some levels was quite cringing. At times it was like watching an addict tricking to get a fix. On many occasions there were frantic attempts to ignite the ether of the faint smell of a non-story. One important saving grace to the proceedings is that it didn’t descend into English tabloid-type coverage. Enough column inches on a forgettable election and we are on to an even more predictable formation of a Government. Because the negotiations are in a steady as she goes bubble, it has allowed masks to slip. Some veils have slipped more than others.
Let us take the most obvious ones first. Sinn Féin has continued the narrative of they being the only people capable of saving Ireland Inc from 100 years of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael tyranny. During the campaign that was the clear message. The “lend us your vote” card was played by Pearse Doherty. People are not stupid. When you sell yourself as the only one capable of banishing the devils from power you cannot play the jilted lover afterwards.
Mary Lou McDonald made a very bold statement that may come back to haunt her. To suggest that the Sinn Féin voters were insulted that the centreorientated parties did not talk turkey with her is way off the mark. Mary Lou please name 100 of your voters who voted for you to go into government with either of the two centre parties. Easier still name one. You have absolutely no mandate from the people who voted for you to negotiate with FF or
TOWN TALK
WITH KEITH DOYLE
FG. This narrative played well in 2020 but not so much today.
Verona Murphy is now in the chair of the Dáil. She is the first female Ceann Comhairle in the history of the state. This is a very important position with an increase in salary. Verona will not need to put her name on the ballot paper next time out as she will be elected automatically. She could put someone up for the election to take that independent seat. This would leave only two seats left for three TDs to fight
over. Those are the plusses for her but may come at a price. The Chair must be impartial and in many respects it will dampen the Verona-in-your-face style approach. This may not go down well with her core support. It would seem that FF and FG are happy with the appointment as it may look like putting a silencer on that trigger-happy gun. James Browne will be best pleased as it takes her out of the frame for a cabinet position and he is now well placed to top the poll next time out which has eluded him thus far.
Labour does not come out unscathed from this process. Ivana Bacik took the opportunity to step up to the microphone. She took the opportunity to take some of the limelight and to show some relevance. This would have been a good ploy only for a Labour insider letting slip that it was not a serious attempt to enter government. Along with the FF negotiator who has “been negotiating all of his life” who didn’t see it as a creditable attempt. This put Labour on the chancer list with this failed three-card trick.
To a lesser extent FF and FG also let their veil slip. Both party leaders in the last few days of the campaign called on people not to waste their vote. They said a vote for independents was a waste as they would not have an involvement in making real change, and now a courtship has begun.
The Greens were wiped out with all but one losing their seats. They took the only course of action and declared that they have no mandate to engage. The Independents are the real winners. We don’t know by how much as they have not yet delivered their full list of demands. How much will the big two relinquish for power. That is the only question to be answered. Sometimes when chasing the dragon in the quest of power it shows up much weakness of character. ■
Verona Murphy’s appointment as Ceann Comhairle may not go down well with her core support.
Enniscorthy Flood Relief update
The Minister for the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform (DPER) issued his decision to refuse the scheme on 4th March 2022. Details are available on www.gov.ie.
Following the decision, the OPW (Office of Public Works) confirmed their commitment to delivering an effective scheme for Enniscorthy. The Minister for State, Mr Patrick O’Donovan, and senior officials from the OPW and Wexford Co. Council attended a special meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District on 4th May 2022 to update the members in relation to the Enniscorthy Flood Defence Scheme. It was confirmed that the Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme will proceed on a phased basis.
Phase 1 - New River Slaney Bridge Project:
This phase of the project will include the construction of the new River Slaney Bridge, the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge, and the construction of a new pedestrian bridge in the town centre. The baseline data for this phase is currently being updated. Traffic surveys are complete, ecology survey reports are complete. Public consultation will take place in Q1 2025. The planning application is to be submitted in Q4 2025.
Phase 2 - Flood Relief Works Project:
This phase of the scheme will include the construction of the main flood relief measures for Enniscorthy town. The project baseline data is to be updated, scheme alternatives are to be assessed, consulted on publicly, and a preferred option identified. It will then be necessary to decide on the most appropriate planning route for the scheme. The hydrology and environmental baseline data is currently being updated; ecology survey reports are to be completed around now.
In September 2024 the government said, “The OPW and WCC remain committed to the progression of this Scheme, which currently has an approved total project budget of approximately €51m, which will be funded under the Government’s €1.3bn for flood relief measures under the National Development Plan to 2030.” ■
Enniscorthy 2021.
100 INSPIRATIONAL POEMS BY ACCLAIMED POET EIBHLÍN MAC MÁIGHISTIR GEDE
Musings on the Universe with Miss Pansy
Available from good bookshops and from Ireland’s Online Bookshop: www.Books.ie Email: Contactus@books.ie Phone: +353 (45) 880806
Books also published by Three Sisters Press: The Guards by Tom Miller and Tony Fagan; Classical Women by Noel Culleton with illustrations by David Mahon; Mr and Mrs Blue Tit by Mairéad O’Gorman; Donncha Ó Dúlaing, the Roads, the Stories and the Wireless by Declan Lyons with photographs by Liam Mulcahy; The Ireland’s Own Anthology, Editor, Phil Murphy; The Wexford Book by Doyle, Freeman, and Murphy, edited by Helen Ashdown; County Wexford in the Rare Old Times by Nicholas Furlong; The Girl in the Big House by Paddy Whelan. Three Sisters Press Ltd., Rosslare Strand, Co. Wexford.
Enniscorthy snippets...
VINEGAR HILL
New seating has been installed. Design and content work on new Heritage Interpretive panels has commenced. Parking and access improvements to Vinegar Hill are being investigated by Wexford Co. Council.
ST JOHN’S COMMUNITY WELLBEING & ACTIVITY
GARDEN
Works are progressing well on the garden. The design elements currently under construction include: Formal & informal garden spaces including opportunities for biodiversity. Various seating options at key points throughout the site. Activity spaces to include raised planters, water feature, play area. New outdoor amphitheatre space. Expected completion date is August 2025.
ENNISCORTHY
TOWN CENTRE REGENERATION PROJECT
The Part 8 process for the Market Square project was concluded on 9th September 2024, with the Council approving the scheme with amendments to address matters raised during the public consultation process.
Preliminary design work on the Enniscorthy Castle Quarter element of the Town Centre First Plan (TCFP) is ongoing and a presentation about it was made at the December meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District. See elsewhere in this issue for more details. It is intended to make a Part 8 submission for this in quarter one of 2025. Regarding the Templeshannon element of the TCFP, ODKM Architects have been appointed to undertake concept master planning design services. Wexford County Council hopes that some ideas in relation to Templeshannon can be brought soon to an EMD meeting.
ENNISCORTHY CCTV
A total of 22 CCTV cameras will be installed at different locations within Enniscorthy Town which have been agreed with An Garda Siochana. See elsewhere in this issue for more details.
THE BROOKLYN BENCH
The bench has been painted and the green area around the bench has been developed. Details are being finalised for new signage to be placed at the bench.
ENNISCORTHY SPORTS HUB
A tender competition to procure a works contractor for the second phase (sports equipment storage area, changing rooms, toilets, showers, and a small office) of the Sports Hub was advertised on eTenders on 18th June 2024. Tenders have been received and assessment is ongoing. Appointment is anticipated around now. Construction is expected to start early this year and take 9-12 months to complete.
ENNISCORTHY NORTH BUSINESS DISTRICT (Old Dublin Road)
Some works have been carried out in recent years on the Enniscorthy North Business District (Old Dublin Road) where over 2,000 people currently work. An application for further funding was submitted to the National Transport Authority for the active travel elements of the masterplan for the area but no funding was forthcoming for 2023 or 2024. A further application for funding will be made in 2025.
MURPHY FLOODS REDEVELOPMENT
Wexford Co. Council has developed a temporary plan for the site to include 28 car-parking spaces and some public realm works. Works are expected to be done early this year.
BUNCLODY PARK
A Stage 2 Natura Impact Statement, plans and particulars were submitted to An Bord Pleanala under Section 177AE. The Board was satisfied that the proposed development would not adversely affect the integrity of the Slaney River Valley Special area of Conservation. The application was approved with conditions. Wexford Co. Council Property Section is currently in discussion with local landowners.
RAFTER STREET PEDESTRIANISATION
Pedestrian Zone signage has been ordered for Rafter Street. Pedestrianisation will be enforced between the hours of 10.00am and 4.30pm as per Bye Laws. Correspondence has been issued to Waste Contractors regarding collection of waste outside of these hours. New bollards have been ordered. The bollards will be placed at both ends of the street. Notification will be issued to business owners on Rafter Street.
ALL-WEATHER ASTRO PITCH, ROSS ROAD
An information meeting for clubs was held in the Presentation Arts Centre on Wednesday 20th November. Two representatives from each club were invited to attend. There was a good attendance at the meeting. The clubs will submit their expressions of interest to the wexfordfootballalliance@gmail.com. A manual booking system is in place for the facility until the online booking system has been installed. The official opening ius expected to be held in the coming weeks.
ENNISCORTHY TRAILS
Works are ongoing on design and planning to extend the trail network to link to the Ringwood and Borodale trails.
BIG BELLY BIN AUDIT
An audit has been carried out on the Big Belly bins in the town centre. Plans are in place for the bins to be upgraded and refurbished. A collection of graphics is being worked on for the bins.
PUBLIC PAYPHONE REMOVAL AND UPGRADE PROJECT
As agreed at the Enniscorthy Municipal District meeting in September 2023, Clear Chanel Ireland have removed the payphone on Wafer Street and have installed a new upgraded payphone and a public information interactive touch screen on Rafter Street. The interactive touch screen will have links to the Visit Wexford website, Local Area Map and Wayfinding and Emergency Helplines. The public information screen will also promote local tourism and events. The project was of no cost to Wexford County Council. There is a capability to provide public Wi-Fi access points from the payphone and Enniscorthy MD intends to have this installed.
PLAYFUL SPACES PROJECT
The Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cllr Aidan Browne recently launched the Playful Spaces Project at the wonderful Orchard Peace Park. Funding for the project was secured from Department of Health. The project is supported by Healthy Wexford through the Healthy Ireland fund. Musical instruments have been installed to add character to the Peace Park. The instruments will encourage old and young to the park. The play-along-the-way concept makes for a more interesting journey through the park. Special thanks to Lisa Moore, Assistant Staff Officer, who came up with the idea for the musical instruments and took the lead on bringing the project to fruition.
BELLEFIELD ROAD COMMUNITY PLAYGROUND & PUBLIC REALM
The Bellefield Road Playground and Public Realm is now open to the public and is a wonderful new amenity for the area. ■
Presentation to well known local retirees
On 17th December 2024 a presentation was made by Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Aidan Browne to recently retired TD for Co. Wexford Paul Kehoe and recently retired press photographer John Walsh.
First elected to the Dáil in 2002, succeeding former minister Ivan Yates, Paul Kehoe served continuously for 22 years as a TD and was chief whip under former Taoiseach Enda Kenny for 12 years in opposition and in government, and served as Minister with responsibility for Defence from 2016 to 2020. Paul said recently that now was ‘the right time’ to stand down for himself and his family.
Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Aidan Browne also made a presentation to the legendary local press photographer John Walsh. John spent
21 years as a press photographer, based mainly in Enniscorthy, having spent his earlier working life in the garage trade. Since 2010, as a ‘new kid on the block’, the Slaney News was always treated with the utmost respect and courtesy by
John. We overlapped covering many events over the years and we are proud to say we learned a great deal from watching the master at work.
We wish both men a happy retirement and good health for the future. ■
Riverside Park Hotel supporting local suicide prevention charity
Ray Cullen, founder and CEO of the Goreybased Futures in Mind suicide prevention charity (formerly Talk to Tom), was delighted to receive a huge donation of €7,538 from the Riverside Park Hotel on 3rd January 2025.
The charity, dedicated to suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and bereavement support, prides itself on always being available immediately its services are required and, according to Ray, it “never has a waiting list”. The financial support from the Enniscorthy hotel will help ensure this continues to be the case.
Throughout December, for every meal purchased at the Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy, €1 was donated by the hotel to the charity chosen by its employees – Futures In Mind.
Hotel proprietor Colm Neville says, “It reflects our commitment as a group to giving back to our communities, through listening to what’s important to our team and backing charities they're passionate about.” ■
L-R: Barry Carroll (General Manager, Riverside Park Hotel), Ray Cullen (Founder and CEO of Futures in Mind), Colm Neville (Proprietor, Riverside Park Hotel).
Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Aidan Browne recently made a presentation to retired press photographer John Walsh and retired TD for Co. Wexford Paul Kehoe.
Festy in good company
Two proud Enniscorthy natives, Mick Abidoye, CEO of Created in Éire, and Festy Ebosele, Irish international footballer, were nominated for the prestigious 2024 Black and Irish Awards.
Mick Abidoye was nominated for Community Person of the Year, while his organisation, Created in Éire, earned a nomination for Community Organisation of the Year. Festy Ebosele was recognised for his stellar performance on the pitch, securing a nomination for Male Sportsman of the Year, alongside his Irish teammate Chiedozie Ogbene.
Mick Abidoye is no stranger to the awards, having previously won in two out of three years – making him one of the few individuals to win multiple accolades. In 2021, Created in Éire was honored as Platform of the Year, and in 2022 Mick was named Community Person of the Year. In 2023 he was also nominated.
In 2024 Mick continued his impactful work in the community, organising successful charity boxing and football events that have raised significant funds for meaningful causes.
Meanwhile, Festy Ebosele’s nomination came on the heels of a breakthrough season with the Irish team, where he made a significant impact both domestically and internationally. His accomplishments on and off the field have earned him widespread recognition as a rising star in Irish sports.
The Slaney News extends our heartfelt congratulations to both Mick Abidoye and Festy Ebosele on being nominated and we were delighted to learn that Festy was declared the winner in
his category. As the new Black & Irish Male Sportsman of the Year, Festy is in good company as the winner of the Sportswoman of the Year is none other than the brilliant athlete Rhasidat Adeleke. ■ Festy Ebosele, Sportsman of the Year.
Mick Abidoye, CEO of Created in Éire.
Sportswoman of the Year Rhasidat Adeleke.
Let there be peace
A new CD by P.J. O’Connor called Let There Be Peace is now available with the proceeds going to Amnesty International and St. Aidan’s Cathedral. It’s available in the Parish Office or direct from P.J. at 089 4408891. All support would be most welcome.
Gospel Choir
Rehearsals take place every Wednesday at 8pm in the IFA Centre in Enniscorthy. New members welcome!
St Patrick’s
School fundraiser
Well done to Catherine Cloke and the St. Patrick’s School Parents Association, school staff, and the stallholders for making the annual Christmas Craft Fair at the school such a success. They raised just over €12,900 which will keep the school’s two buses on the road for another year.
Penny Bank
Enniscorthy Credit Union Penny Bank accounts will be locked from January 20th for Christmas 2025 so please withdraw any money you want before then. And remember, members can open a Pennybank account and start saving anytime. ■
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Enniscorthy Wellbeing & Activity Garden
Works are progressing well on the Enniscorthy Wellbeing & Activity Garden at the St John’s Hospital complex. The design elements currently under construction include:
■ Formal & informal garden spaces including opportunities for biodiversity.
■ Various seating options at key points throughout the site.
■ Activity spaces to include raised planters, water feature, play area.
■ New outdoor amphitheatre space. The expected completion date is August 2025. ■ Works as at mid-December 2024.
New Year’s Eve
Above left: Celebrating on New Year’s Eve in The Slaney Inn, Oylegate, were Tom Hendrick, Liz Kinsella and John Mahon.
Above right: The Bailey Bar & Eatery, Enniscorthy, Aoife Moran, Lorna Kavanagh, Denise McAuister, Eoin Battigan, Nede Wylie and Rob O’Keeffe.
Left: D Bar Enniscothy, Stacey Farnan and Richy Tobin.
Right: The Bailey Bar & Eatery, Sriram Kalyanraman, Aishwarya Sriram and Ashokkumar Gianeson.
Below left: The Slaney Inn, Oylegate, mother and daughter Alice and Elisabeth Connors.
Below centre: D Bar, Enniscorthy, Abbie Dagg, Aoife Farnan and Kayla Kenny Murphy.
Below right: D Bar, Enniscorthy, Jessica Sinnott and Sarah Colch. Bottom left: The Bailey Bar & Eatery, Laia Wylie, Liam Battigan, Sean Wylie, Adam Battigan, Daniel O’Keeffe and Isabelle Battigan.
Bottom right: The Slaney Inn, Oylegate, Chloe Murphy.
A monthly update from GreenTech HQ
SKILLNET INNOVATION EXCHANGE SCALE-UP ROADSHOW
The Skillnet Innovation Exchange Scale-Up Roadshow returns to GreenTech HQ in January!
Kicking off at 5pm, January 22nd 2025. Come join us for Navigating Business Growth & Networking...
Key Speakers Include: Orlaith O’Brien
Founding Partner, Head of OBH Corporate & Finance group. Andrew Williamson
Accounts & Business Advisory Services Director, Azets. To register email admin@greentechhq.com
SOUTH EAST SUSTAINABILITY CLUSTER
The South East Sustainability Cluster is back for the new year in February! Join us at ArcLabs on February 6th from 6pm. ArcLabs Research & Innovation Centre, South East Technological University West Campus, Carriganore, Co. Waterford, X91 P20H. ■
Introducing our key speakers for next month's South East Sustainability Cluster!
Dr John Breen, Chief Technology Officer, NEG8 Carbon. Prof Helen Hughes, SETU Academic - Enterprise Liaison for Eco-Innovation. Bobby Lambert from Eco Merit. Be sure to join us on February 6th!
Empowering Communities in
Wexford Local Development’s Empowering Communities Programme uses a community development approach to address social exclusion, build community leadership and work towards the alleviation of impacts of poverty in Bunclody.
Wexford Local Development (WLD) is a non-governmental organisation working to support the development of thriving, resilient communities where people feel connected, are valued and have equal opportunity to reach their full potential.
The Empowering Communities Programme (ECP) is one of a number of national programmes being delivered at local level by WLD on behalf of the Government in order to create opportunities that promote equality and inclusion and improve quality of life for people and communities. This work is informed by WLD’s core values of re-
spect, equality, leadership, inclusion and integrity.
Communities know best what their issues are and what the solutions should be. One of 17 projects in the country, the Empowering Communities Programme is designed to empower communities to design their own community
Bunclody Context
Some areas in Co. Wexford continue to face significant challenges that affect the quality of life for those living there. Challenges have persisted in these areas over many years despite a range of existing services, supports and activities within these areas. As a step towards addressing these issues, Wexford Local Development, in collaboration with the Department of Rural & Community Development, are hosting an Empowering Communities Programme (ECP) in Bunclody. The programme follows a community development approach to address social exclusion, build community leadership and work towards the alleviation of impacts of poverty in Bunclody with a specific focus on the local areas of Carrig Ban, Strawberry Hill, Hospital Hill, Ard Colm, Ryland Wood, Patrick’s Way and surrounds as appropriate. These areas have continued to face disproportionate challenges due to historic structural disadvantage contributing to growing inequality, despite nationwide growth and improvements.
Wellbeing Day in St Aidan’s Hall (2023).
Credit: Rebecca Hatchett.
development approach to addressing the challenges they face. The programme supports communities in creating and implementing specialised community work responses to local concerns and particularly in areas of specific disadvantage and the resulting social exclusion. Under the ECP, Community Engagement Workers work closely in collaboration with people living in these areas and with other local stakeholders. The Community Engagement Workers create the conditions for change in the community, developing and facilitating relationships between the local community and other relevant stakeholders at both local and national level. In addition they are responsible for ensuring that the core work of the ECP is informed by and driven by these communities through the incorporation of community
Snapshot of the ECP Story So Far
Since early 2023, the programme has supported community members in these areas to come together to collectivise around shared challenges faced in their area. Over the last 18 months the programme has grown to see positive relationships and strengthened community connections build in the local area between communities who may not have otherwise reached each other, supporting greater community leadership and solidarity. This has also supported the community in coming together to identify and craft responses to locally identified challenges. The programme also works in close collaboration with existing programmes, services and organisations to address barriers to participation and access experienced by communities. Heading into 2025, the programme is excited to continue to support the local community in building a vibrant, connected and inclusive community for all.
• Door-to-door outreach and drop-ins
• Mental health and wellbeing day
• Challenging barriers to participation in community-based education
• Targeted programmes with young people and their families
• Collaborations with local organisations and services
• Intercultural activities and celebrations
• Challenging perceptions through visual storytelling map
• Thematic workshops and events exploring equality, social justice and creating change
• Supporting access to funding/grants for local community structures
• Voter education and active citizenship programme
• Promoting sustainability awareness through environmental projects
• Supporting and developing community leadership and collective decision making
• Building estate pride through community clean ups and planting.
work values and principles. This places communities at the very centre of the programme. Bringing a collective focus
grounded in values of social justice, equality and human rights, recognises that many of the individual challenges
ECP Fun In The Sun in collaboration with Sports Active Wexford.
faced in the community are shared and in turn builds the participation, empowerment and agency of these communities.
The ECP works closely with other government-funded initiatives aimed at disadvantaged areas such as the Social Inclu-
Active Citizenship & Voter Education Workshops
• In advance of the local elections in 2024, ECP in collaboration with SICAP developed and delivered a series of workshops within the local community exploring active citizenship, democracy and communities’ vision for a just society.
• Participants included members of the local Traveller community, Ukrainian refugees, and residents from local estates.
• Community ‘Manifestos’ were prepared and presented to local election candidates at a district event hosted by SICAP in May. From this process, residents’ structures have been developed in target areas who are now progressing on issues named within their manifestos.
Mental Health & Wellbeing Day
• From the onset of the project, people spoke of the lack of services within the community particularly for those who do not have access to transport. There was also a lack of awareness about existing services and how to engage with them.
• In response to this, the project hosted a Mental Health & Wellbeing Day in St. Aidan’s Hall as it is centrally located in the town and close to the residential areas. Extensive outreach took place in all designated estates encouraging people to participate and access information and learn about the services. The event was also advertised on the local radio and in the local newspaper.
• Alzheimer’s Wexford, Barnardos, Citizens Advice, MABS, HSE We Can Quit, Healthy Wexford, Sláintecare Healthy Communities, The Cornmarket Project, WWETB, Alone, Wexford Mental Health Services and wellbeing activity demonstrations were also part of the event bringing local services into the heart of the community.
Above: Creating Change In Our Community event. Below: International Roma Day event.
Active Citizenship & Voter Education Workshop.
Above: Tidy Towns Community Cleanup Day. Below: Christmas Tree Celebration at Mountain View.
sion and Community Activation Programme, Traveller Community Health Programme, Community Safety Partnerships, Local Drugs Task Forces and the Healthy Communities Programme. The community-focused and collaborative approach of the ECP is consistent with the government’s 5-year strategy to support the community and voluntary sector, called Sustainable, Inclusive and Empowered Communities 2019-2024.
St Aidan’s Hall
St Aidan’s Hall has become a positive and invaluable space during the lifetime of the programme. Working in close collaboration with the now revitalised parish hall committee, the hall has now developed into a key focal point in the community, and a valuable space for community groups, organisations and the programme to bring together diverse groups who may not otherwise cross paths. The hall is situated as a prominent backdrop to many of the empowering communities, groups, events and programmes throughout the year.
In September 2024, in collaboration with artist Rebecca Hatchett, the stories of these communities were captured in a narrative illustration aimed at reclaiming the narrative of communities impacted by social exclusion and marginalisation and highlighting what can be achieved in creating the space for communities to come together to create positive social change in their area. The narrative illustration draws upon events, programmes and projects delivered in collaboration with the local community and services and organisations in the area – these include community environmental projects, supporting access to community education and language supports, intercultural events, creative and outdoor programmes supporting young people and their families, and workshops centred on social justice and equality.
Estate Pride & Empowerment –Collectivising Around Shared Challenges
Throughout the programme, various environmental projects aimed toward increasing estate pride through planting and community clean-ups supported the formation of positive relationships between residents, environmental and sustainable awareness and agency in their respective areas. Since then, residential structures have developed in each area to address these issues by working collectively to identify who holds responsibility in these areas, collaborating with WCC and relevant bodies to address issues of waste and overgrowth.
FDYS Celebrating 60 Years
FDYS is celebrating 60 years’ service in County Wexford. Founded in 1965, FDYS is now among Ireland’s premier Youth and Community organisations supporting young people and their families across County Wexford. The organisation facilitates youth work, early years education, and community development work in a variety of creative and engaging ways.
FDYS recently launched a comprehensive series of celebrations ensuring that all FDYS stakeholders have the opportunity to become involved, including young people, families, communities, volunteers, and staff teams. These celebrations are running from November 2024 until October 2025, so there is plenty of time for everyone to celebrate the amazing milestone. There is a whole calendar of events happening, please see next page for full details.
The organisation is also reaching out in a particular way to former FDYS youth members, former FDYS volunteers, and retired FDYS staff teams to become involved. It is holding open days and coffee mornings in its FDYS Youth Centres. “We would love to hear old
FDYS stories and share FDYS photos. Please get involved,” says Dr Kieran Donohoe, CEO
GET IN TOUCH WITH FDYS: Anyone interested in getting involved in these celebrations can get in touch with any FDYS staff member at its locations in Bunclody, Gorey, Courtown, Enniscorthy, Drumgoold, Wexford, Coolcotts, New Ross, Bridgetown, Rosslare, Junglebox,
Wonderland or Scoil Spraoi na Leanai. Full contact details are available on www.fdys.ie.
In particular, if former FDYS youth members, former FDYS volunteers, and retired FDYS staff teams would like to share their stories and photos, Terry O’Neill (FDYS Senior Youth Worker), is organising restorative sessions (087 935 1764; terry.oneill@fdys.ie).
Marie’s Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr Kieran Donohoe, Chief Executive, FDYS, presents Marie with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 60th celebrations night at FDYS Enniscorthy on 8th November, 2024.
Also in the photo are Emily McCann (FDYS Chairperson), and Paul O'Brien (FDYS Board Member).
Dr Kieran Donohoe, CEO of FDYS.
of FDYS.
Marie Diskin has served FDYS as a volunteer for 40 years.
Right:
Schedule of Events Celebrating 60 Years
When: Friday 08 November 2024 (Evening)
Who: Youth Work Ireland (YWI) Board, YWI Staff, FDYS Board, FDYS MIT, Elected Representatives
Where: FDYS Island Road, Enniscorthy Why: Launch of 60th Celebrations
When: Friday 22 November 2024 (Evening) 7pm – 10pm
Who: Francis Street Photograph Exhibition for Community
Where: FDYS Francis Street
Why: FDYS Photograph Exhibition
When: June 2025
Who: FDYS Early Years Services
Where: Countywide
Why: FDYS Coloring Competition
When: 01 July 2025
Who: FDYS Early Years Services
Where: Heritage Park
Why: All Early Years Centres Visit
When: 25 July 2025
Who: FDYS Staff Team
Where: FDYS Francis Street, Wexford
Why: Monster 60th BBQ
When: Thursday 21 August 2025, 10.30 to 14.00
Who: FDYS Volunteers, Retired Volunteers and FDYS Team Members. Lead by Bishop Ger Nash, together with others involved in FDYS work.
Where: Place of reflection, TBA
Why: Thanksgiving for FDYS’s 60 years in Youth and Community Work.
When: 27 August 2025
Who: FDYS Community
Where: Coolcotts Area
Why: FDYS 60th Celebrations Sports Day
When: Friday 26 September 2025
Who: FDYS Young People
Where: FDYS, Island Road, Enniscorthy
Why: Monster FDYS Table Quiz
When: Fireworks Night 2025
Who: All FDYS Staff Team, Volunteers and Young People
Where: FDYS Francis Street
Why: Following Wexford Opera Fireworks, FDYS Francis Street to Host 60th Closing Ceremony Reception.
Address by Emily McCann, Chair of the Board of FDYS, at launch of FDYS’s 60th Celebrations, 8th
Good evening everyone.
I’m Emily McCann and I am the current Chair of the Board of the FDYS. Can I take this opportunity on behalf of myself and fellow board members to welcome you all to the launch of the 60th anniversary of FDYS – your local voluntary youth service in Co. Wexford.
A fabulous achievement that is a tribute to the current and past members of FDYS and I’m sure over the coming year we will celebrate both past and present achievements.
FDYS is a broad and diverse youth service and has a wide selection of services for young people, both voluntary and resourced schemes. We cover a large variety of schemes all over the county and I am delighted to welcome some of our stakeholders here tonight. From youth diversion projects, to youth counselling, youth work projects UBU, LGBT plus support, Comhairle na nÓg, detached youth work, youth info project, traveller projects, Roma projects, youth clubs 16 active and several more set to open, CBDI and our early year services – apologies if I haven’t identified everyone but our ser-
vices are wide and varied and all play an essential part in the development of the young people in our county.
My first interactions with FDYS was as a teenager in the youth club in Blackwater and we were the best youth club in the country at that stage. I moved on from
November 2024
member to leader and then officer and this started me down a road of volunteering, so I am delighted to have the opportunity to pay back to FDYS in my current role. May I take this opportunity to thank your current board members and indeed those who have served on the board over the past 60 years.
FDYS offers so many opportunities to young people in this county and all of our members are to be commended for their work. All this is under the management of our CEO Kieran and his management implementation team. Thank you all for all you do and the difference you make. Our vision is for all young people to be enabled to realise their maximum potential and all of the staff and members of FDYS work together to make this a workable vision for them.
Always remember that you can be the one person in a young person’s life who makes a difference.
I hope you all have a lovely evening and look forward to seeing you at more of the celebrations over the coming year.
Thank you.
FDYS staff celebrating 60 years.
FDYS 60th Celebrations Variety Show FDYS, Enniscorthy, 22nd November, 2024
Above: Dr Kieran Donohoe, CEO of FDYS, welcomes the audience.
Left: Shine Out Loud singing group performing. Right: Michelle Sinnott (FDYS), Suzanne Roche, Claire Cousins, Kris McGuire.
Above right: New Ross-based NCS for Life / Scoil Spraoi na Leanai.
Left: Emma Whitty and FDYS CEO Dr Kieran Donohoe.
Right: Murradh, Jack Cloke, Katelyn Kenny. Below left: Elizabeth, Kathleen and Mary Connors.
Below centre: Fadi and Robbie Staples with two of the young performers.
Below right: Pili Loring (FDYS), Suzanne Roche.
Top left: Kylie Cooper with young attendees.
FDYS Launch of 60th Celebrations
FDYS, Enniscorthy, 8th November, 2024, attended by representatives of Youth Work Ireland and FDYS, and public representatives
Above
Dr
John Paul O’Neill, Pili Loring, Suzanne Roche, Nocola Mangan (all FDYS Management Implementation Team).
Left: Emily McCann (FDYS Chairperson).
Below L-R: Mary Horgan, Danielle Gayson, Molly Hickey, Leo Galvan, Katherine Wall, Gina Halpin, Geraldine Moore, Paul Gralton (all Youth Work Ireland).
Top left: Johnny Mythen TD, Cllr Jackser Owens, Minister James Browne TD. Top right: Catherine Durkin (Chairperson Youth Work Ireland), with
Kieran Donohoe (CEO FDYS).
left:
Above: Marie Diskin, Eileen Murphy, Nicola Dobbs. Below: Margaret Slattery, Sean Roche.
Top left: Minister James Browne addresses the gathering.
Top right: Joy Keyes, Caroline Kelly, Dr Kieran Donohoe, John Paul O’Neill, Cllr Lisa McDonald, Nicola Mangan.
Left: Some of the attendees.
Above right: Emily McCann (FDYS Chairperson), Marie Diskin (FDYS), Patrick Burke (CEO Youth Work Ireland), Dr Kieran Donohoe (CEO FDYS).
Right: Jane Corboy, Mary Donohoe.
Left: Dr Kieran Donohoe (CEO FDYS), Cllr Michael Sheehan.
Below left: Patrick Burke and Catherine Durkin (both Youth Work Ireland), Regina Butler (WWETB) and Breege Kiernan (Youth Work Ireland).
Below: Flowers for Marie Diskin to celebrate her 40 years of service with FDYS.
A regular series by the team at Enniscorthy East Community Development
Contact the Slaney News on 087-2403310 for a copy of the November issue of the Templeshannon newsletter.
ENNISCORTHY EAST COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
January is often a time for looking forward but here on the Eastside we think that the passing of the old year gives us a chance to reflect on all that’s been achieved over the past 12-18 months. Since its inception in summer of 2023, the Enniscorthy East Community Development Association has been very busy in bringing substantial improvements to the Templeshannon area.
Here's a brief summary of all that has been brought to the area as a direct result of our efforts.
The Templeshannon Community and Childcare Centre has benefitted from the receipt of two major grants and these funds have been put to good use. The emphasis of the spend has been to upgrade the facilities for the various groups that call the centre home, with a major focus on improving
11am - 12.30pm
both energy efficiency and public safety.
The safety of our pre-school children and their parents is of course paramount and last year we also had safety bollards installed to protect our little ones as they enter and exit the building.
The benefits of having a strong community are many, and over the past year we have set up a number of groups within the Templeshannon community. These groups cater for young and old and cover a wide range of activities. Among them are our awardwinning Youth Club and more recently we set up a new Women’s group aptly called the ‘Hill Cailíní’. We also established two new community singing groups, a mixed group called the ‘Templars’ and an all-male choir which hosted a very successful concert before Christmas. These groups are open to any person who feels like belonging to a social group, and welcomes new members from all parts of the town.
Of course, reaching out to others is a big part of community development. Since our inception we have organised a number of parties for children and adults. Our Christmas parties for retired people are extremely popular and we have welcomed many people from Ukraine to these events.
Ukrainian children are very much the focus for our children’s Christmas parties and these parties have been organised and run by the young people in our Youth Club.
How an area looks can have a significant impact on how people feel about the area in which they reside. To that end we have organised a number of clean-ups across the Templeshannon area. Residents at Gimont Avenue and Cluain Dara have organised major cleans-ups in their areas, and with help from Wexford Council they have taken ownership of maintaining the grass areas within the estate.
Not to be outdone, residents from Hillview Heights organised a major replanting of the ‘bollards’ on their road, before moving down the Shannon to completely revamp the Grotto at Fr. Cullen’s Terrace. Many residents have commented on how well these areas look following the clean-ups, and there are already plans in place to continue and build on this important work in 2025.
All of the involved residents’ efforts were rewarded late in 2024 when residents picked up a number of awards including: Enniscorthy Tidy Towns Best New Community Award and Wexford Co. Council’s Best Overall Estate for the entire county.
Communication is always important and along with our social media posts the team have also been busy formulating and publishing a quarterly newsletter. Hand delivered to people’s homes all over the area, it has been instrumental in getting the message out to the community. One of the news items we were proud to share was the timetable information for the new Local Link shuttle which now services the Templeshannon area. We were delighted to have had a part in lobbying for the introduction of this service to the area, a first for all residents in Enniscorthy East.
Late 2024 brought another red-letter moment for the Templeshannon community, with the signing of a lease to bring the Capt. Wafer Hall back into community use. The Wafer Hall will now become the headquarters for the Enniscorthy Community Alliance, and the Enniscorthy East Community Development Association has played a major part in re-opening this facility to the community. Built by the men and women of the Shannon over 70 years ago, it is nice to see it back at the centre of some new and exciting community initiatives.
Enniscorthy East Community Development Association has recently formulated a strategic plan for the area. The plan outlines what residents feel should be the major priorities for Enniscorthy East. We will be seeking to discuss this plan early in 2025 with all of the relevant stakeholders and will be lobbying the powers that be to get behind all the wonderful work that this local community has been doing. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those people who work so hard to improve their area. We would also like to thank the various agencies that have assisted the committee in achieving their goals to date. We wish you all the best for the year ahead. ■
7PM EVERY MONDAY NIGHT
Wexford Co. Council environment awards 2024: Pat Carty receives an award on behalf of Gimont / Cluain Dara.
The Christmas party for retired people is always extremely popular.
Sustainable Enniscorthy
A monthly column
A member of the local Sustainable Enniscorthy group looks at recycling WEEE and waste batteries.
Play your part in recycling WEEE and waste batteries!
What is WEEE and why is it important?
Think of all the products in your home that plug in or need batteries to work –mobile phone, laptop, TV, TV remote, watch, power tools, hairdryer & straightener, toys, kettle & toaster, coffee machine, electric toothbrush, vape or ecigarette devices. These are all electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). Certain types of lighting such as fluorescent tubes are also EEE. With a few exceptions, most EEE sold in the EU must have a specific marking of a crossed-out wheelie bin.
When EEE no longer works properly and needs to be thrown away, it becomes waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). WEEE is one of the fastest growing waste streams in the world. Some WEEE contains materials dangerous to the environment and human health and are classed as hazardous waste. They need to be managed by hazardous waste experts to prevent the materials getting into air or water (e.g. mercury in fluorescent tubes or ozone-depleting gases in fridges). There are very valuable resources in WEEE that can be captured for recycling, for example precious metals (gold, platinum), glass, plastic and critical raw materials (e.g. magnesium, silicon).
How can you recycle WEEE and waste batteries?
The first important point is don’t put WEEE or waste batteries into your kerbside bin as they won’t be captured for recycling –there is a separate collection system in place for these wastes.
If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or be kept informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com www.sustainableenniscorthy.com Contact us to get involved!
Image source: WEEE Ireland
The second important point is that recycling of WEEE and waste batteries is free!
Bring your WEEE and waste batteries to Enniscorthy Recycling Centre: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/wasteand-recycling/recycling-and-wastedisposal-centres/enniscorthy-recyclin g-centr
All retailers of EEE are obliged to take back WEEE of a similar type on a onefor-one, like-for-like basis, free of charge. Certain electrical retailers are taking part in the ‘We’ll Take It Back’ campaign – meaning they will take back your household WEEE free-ofcharge with no purchase necessary. For more information visit www.weeeireland.ie
All retailers of batteries are obliged to accept waste batteries (if they are selling the same types of batteries). Drop them into the WEEE Ireland blue portable battery boxes. Important note: You don’t need to buy new batteries to return waste batteries at a retail outlet but the outlet doesn’t have to take back waste batteries if they are damaged or leaking. ■
Image source: WEEE Ireland
A mobility strategy for Enniscorthy
THE HIGH-POWERED UCD-TCD CONUNDRUM RESEARCH TEAM LAUNCHED ITS SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY MOBILITY STRATEGY FOR ENNISCORTHY, ON 7TH NOVEMBER, IN THE PRESENTATION ARTS CENTRE, ENNISCORTHY. THE EVENT WAS A PUBLIC LAUNCH AND WAS OPEN TO EVERYONE TO ATTEND.
The strategy outlines the key challenges and opportunities identified by participating stakeholders, and presents the CONUNDRUM team’s recommended actions for achieving a sustainable mobility future for Enniscorthy.
The list of solutions is reproduced below and the full online report can be read here: https://citiesgovernancesustainability.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Conundrum-Strategy-MasterFA-Digital.pdf
And a video of the launch can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M11Xlm9KDnQ ■
Launch of the community-led mobility strategy for Enniscorthy
The CONUNDRUM research team based at University College Dublin and Trinity College Dublin, in collaboration with our partner TASC, are delighted to announce this launch. The strategy is the outcome of workshops, focus groups and interviews with local communities and other stakeholders in Enniscorthy since November 2023.
The strategy records the challenges and opportunities related to mobility experienced by different stakeholders in Ennsicorthy. It presents multiple solutions and recommended actions for achieving sustainable mobility futures in Enniscorthy. It is a strategy by the community, for the community to help shape real change.
Exciting partnership formed to deliver environmental workshops in Enniscorthy schools
On December 17, 2024, at GreenTech HQ, Enniscorthy, the Enniscorthy Community Alliance (ECA) proudly announced a new partnership with ECO-UNESCO that will launch a series of environmental workshops in Enniscorthy secondary schools starting in January 2025.
This initiative aims to engage students in environmental education and empower them to take actionable steps toward sustainable development.
Enniscorthy Community Alliance (ECA) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Enniscorthy through various projects focused on sustainability, community development, and environmental initiatives.
Currently, ECA is implementing the Plants and Places Project, which has received funding from the 2024 Department of Justice Community Safety Initiative Fund.
The Alliance also supports over 20 Community Employment Scheme Workers and is in the process of establishing an EcoHub in Enniscorthy.
Recently, ECA successfully completed a
spring bulb planting campaign involving all secondary schools and Enniscorthy Youthreach, showcasing that school communities are committed to outreach and environmental stewardship.
ECO-UNESCO is Ireland's leading environmental education youth organisation
that has been at the forefront of conserving the environment and empowering young people for over 30 years. The organisation runs the all-Ireland Young Environmentalist Awards programme and has been appointed as a Sustainable Development Goal Ambassador, promoting awareness and action for sustainability among youth.
Workshop Details: The partnership will kick off with 22 environmental workshops across participating schools, including St Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy Community College, Coláiste Bríde, and Enniscorthy Youthreach. These workshops will benefit approximately 200 students, providing them with the knowledge and skills to identify and implement their own sustainable development projects. The ECA’s Plants and Places Project will further support these initiatives by facilitating students in delivering their projects within the local community.
Future Aspirations: Both Enniscorthy Community Alliance and ECO-UNESCO envision expanding this pilot project to increase the number of workshops in the following school year. They are also exploring options to extend environmental learning opportunities to young people who have
L-R: Clinton Donovan (Climate Action Team, Wexford Co. Council), Ann Marie Laffan (Wexford Co. Council), Billy Murphy (Enniscorthy Community Alliance), Jonathon Hughes (Enniscorthy Tidy Towns), Frank Burke (Climate Action Team, Wexford Co. Council).
Back row L-R: Brendan O’Sullivan (Principal, St Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy), Billy Murphy (Enniscorthy Community Alliance), Hugh J. Dunne (Enniscorthy Youthreach Coordinator). Front L-R: Elaine Nevin (National Director, ECO-UNESCO), Irene Cadogan (Sustainable Enniscorthy), John Jude Murphy (Enniscorthy Community Alliance), Katie Ryan (Educational Programme & Sales Coordinator ECO-UNESCO).
Above: Sergeant Eddie Wilde, Crime Prevention Officer, Wexford Garda Division, and Paul Buckley, Juvenile Liaison Officer, Enniscorthy Garda Station.
Below: Fiona O’Shea (Worldwise Global Schools), and Bernie Kinsella (Enniscorthy CBS Guidance Counsellor and Programme Coordinator).
already left school and to other interested community youth groups, coinciding with the operationalisation of the EcoHub in 2025.
Launch Event: The partnership was officially launched at GreenTech HQ, with a strong turnout from representatives of local secondary schools, Youthreach, Wexford County Council’s Community Climate Action Officers and Biodiversity Officer, as well as the Sláinte Care Community Health Officer. The Garda Síochána Junior Liaison Officer also attended the event, highlighting the community's collective commitment to fostering a sustainable future.
For more information about the Enniscorthy Community Alliance and the upcoming workshops and project please visit its website or contact them directly, 087 6734376. http://www.enniscorthycommunityalliance.org
ECA and ECO-UNESCO – Together, working towards a greener, more sustainable future for our community! ■
Taking shape at Bellefield
The new sensory garden taking shape at McCauley Park, Bellefield, Enniscorthy, along with the recently opened playground and new coffee dock.
This is a wonderful amenity in the Bellefield area and open to everybody to use.
pics by Maria Nolan
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 ■
Enniscorthy Toastmasters
The group meeets fortnightly on Tuesdays, September to June, in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, at 8pm. All welcome! https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthy-Toastmasters129333810455771 for updates. ■
ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS NEEDS YOU!
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers meet on Sunday mornings to collect litter and tidy up around the town. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed! So if you are sick of seeing rubbish on your road, street, estate or elsewhere in the community, please contact: 053 923 6518 or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com
Keep up to date on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown
Let's all help to make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener! ■
View from the Centre –the end of an era
For the first time in almost 14 years, there is no View from the Centre column in this issue, or in any future issue. Our columnist has decided to retire from writing this column in order to concentrate on other activities.
It has been a privilege for us to have this columnist on board and we have learned so much through their expertise on a broad range of subjects – political, social and economic.
We thank them for their dedication and huge commitment to our publication and wish them well for the future. ■
A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond
WEXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL LAUNCHES 6-YEAR PLAN TO DRIVE ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
At the December sitting of Wexford County Council on 9th December 2024, the “Local Economic and Community Plan” (LECP) 2024-2029 was officially launched.
The Wexford LECP 2024-2029 sets out six ambitious HighLevel Goals which were developed following extensive public consultation and builds on the foundations of the first LECP 2016-2021, but also takes into consideration emerging issues. The High-Level Goals are supported by a series of actions and objectives which aim to deliver an ambitious plan to transform the lives of County Wexford’s residents. The Plan also includes an initial two-year implementation plan, detailing which actions are to be prioritised for the first two-year period, and the Key Performance Indicators used to measure the implementation of these actions. The plan is now available to be downloaded from the council’s website at www.wexfordcoco.ie
Chief Officer of the LCDC, Dymphna O’Connor stated that the
LECP, and in particular the initial two-year implementation plan, sets out the commitments for economic and community development for Wexford and that it was important that all stakeholders and agencies now commit to working with the plan in all aspects of economic and community development within the County.
Chair of the LCDC Cllr Aidan Browne stated, “The members of the LCDC took the responsibility bestowed on them by statute very seriously in developing this strategic and defining plan for County Wexford. Under the initial lead of the Advisory Steering Group, they reviewed and contributed to shaping the plans progression and ensuring that our consultants, KPMG Future Analytics, delivered to the highest standard in developing a plan to meet the needs and ambitions of County Wexford. We also wish to extend our thanks to the key stakeholders and members of the public who gave over their time during the consultation process to help develop the Plan.” ■
Christmas shop window display
A ‘Best Christmas Window Display’ competition was run pre-Christmas by Enniscorthy Municipal District.
Business owners in Enniscorthy, Ferns and Bunclody were invited to take part with the most festive winning entry announced on Friday 20th December and receiving a €500 Co. Wexford Chamber Shop Local Gift Card sponsored by Enniscorthy Municipal District. The deserving winner this year was Finishing Touches, Main Street, Enniscorthy. Congrats to proprietor Therese Gleeson and staff member Amy Kavanagh Murphy who was instrumental is putting the display together.
Group Photo below L-R: Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager Claire Lawless, Finishing Touches staff member Amy Kavanagh Murphy, Finishing Touches proprietor Therese Gleeson, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Aidan Browne.
The competition judges, who were very impressed by the standard this year, made honourable mention of two other Enniscorthy shop window displays – 'Revive and Thrive' and 'Dusty Boy'. ■
Minister James Browne TD was delighted to confirm, just before Christmas, delivery of three new ambulances for Co. Wexford, worth almost €800,000, and eleven new ambulance service staff nationally. He said, “Thanks to Cllr. Ger Carthy and all the paramedics and health professionals in the ambulance service for their hard work.”
Enniscorthy Musical Society carolling in Market Square
Enniscorthy Musical Society went carolling in the Market Square, Enniscorthy, on 21st December 2024, and took the opportunity to promote their upcoming production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.
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Discover how Copywriting by Changing Lanes can help bring more traffic to your website and connect you with more customers for your products and services.
Professional copywriting and editorial services based in Co. Wexford. Phone: 087-7946277. Email: caroline@changinglanes.ie
Dressmaking, alterations, fabrics, zips, haberdashery, Communion dresses – readymade and bespoke. Castle House, Castle Hill Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford Y21 P5C7
Tel: 085 858 1526
Find us on Facebook and Instagram
Tel: 053 923 6678
Clonhaston, Enniscorthy
y Mind your Mind: our Contact: Séamus McCormack, Psychotherapist BA (Hons) Counselling & Psychotherapy
To log a report regarding any dumping, street litter, road oil spills and potholes, ring Wexford Council on (053) 919 6000 or email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
You will receive a log number to refer to if you need to call again. You can also ask to register for group or individual cleanups of your environment.
As part of the Ireland Lights Up initiative, Rapparees-Starlights GAA Club in Enniscorthy has joined the Leinster GAA Step Challenge and the goal is for our walkers to complete 4,000km collectively as a club starting on January 6th for five weeks.
If we pass this target the Club will be entered into a prize draw for our Club to win a piece of the prize fund.
Steps must be tracked using the Irish Life MyLife app. This app can be synced to a device such as Fitbit, Garmin, etc.
You don't have to attend the Ireland Lights Up walks in Bellefield to participate... any walking you do over the 5 weeks counts (although we'd love to see you Mondays and Thursdays at 7pm in Bellefield for our walks!)
Let's start walking up that leaderboard!
STEP 1: DOWNLOAD MYLIFE
Download: MyLife from the App Store or Google Play Store. Search: MyLife by Irish Life.
STEP 2: JOIN THE CHALLENGE
Once you have registered on the app, go to Social > Challenges > MyLife's Every Step Counts Challenge + Leinster > find your club Rapparees-Starlights to join.
STEP 3: LINK YOUR TRACKER Track > Trackers > Select your device. (If you don’t have a tracking device, you can log your steps manually).
Info on how to register on the app: Getting started on MyLife: https://vimeo.com/651987979 – Maria Nolan ■
Co. Wexford Chamber
First B2B Networking & Members Spotlight event of the year!
Date: Thursday, January 23rd. Time: 8.30am – 10.30am.
Location: Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club, Enniscorthy, Y21 T2F4.
Fee: Free to members; €20 to non-members.
Event Highlights:
Spotlight on Members with Niamh Hogan, Founder & CEO, Holos Skincare and Nicholas Dunne, Owner, Killowen Farm, providing an overview of what they do and how they contribute to our community.
Networking Opportunities: Engage in open dialogue, introduce your business to a wider network of professionals, and gain visibility within the Chamber.
Roundtable Discussions: Connect directly with business leaders and potential collaborators in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and learn from the best in the business.
Co. Wexford Chamber looks forward to seeing you there –bring plenty of business cards!
Register now and secure your spot: https://tinyurl.com/wk3p2c96 ■
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993
Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from 17 February to 28 March 2025 to facilitate the construction of a new bridge at Cullenstown, Foulksmills, Co. Wexford.
Road Closure: L-4025-3 at Cullenstown from its junction with Ballyclemock Junction.
Alternative Route: From Ballyclemock to Cullenstown via the L4025-2, R735-10, N25, L-7019-1 and the L7020-1.
Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated. Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 21 January 2025 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.
Alt 75 d’Acht na mBóithre 1993
Dúnadh Sealadach Bóithre
Tugtar fógra leis seo go bhfuil sé beartaithe ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman an bóthar a liostaítear anseo thíos a dhúnadh do thrácht feithiclí ó Dé Luain 17ú Feabhra go dtí Dé Máirt, 28ú Márta chun tógáil droichid nua i mBaile Uí Choileáin, Muileann Fúca, Co. Loch Garman, a éascú.
Dúnadh Bóthair: L-4025-3 ag Baile Uí Choileáin, óna acomhal le acomhal Baile Chleamac.
Bealach Malartach: Ó Baile Chleamac chuig Baile Uí Choileáin, is féidir L4025-2, R735-10, N25, L-7019-1 agus L70201 a úsaid mar bealach Malartach.
Beidh comharthaíocht ar bhealaí malartacha. Déanfar rochtain áitiúil a éascú.
Más mian le duine ar bith cur i gcoinne dúnadh an bhóthair seo, ba cheart an agóid a sheoladh chugann tríd an tairseach ar líne https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ nó cóip crúa a sheoladh chuig Rúnaí an Chontae, Comhairle Chontae Loch Garman, Halla an Chontae, Loch Garman roimh 12.00, meán lae, Dé Máirt, 21ú Eanáir 2025.
Christmas Tree Shredding
Wexford County Council will again be arranging for the FREE shredding of Christmas trees at the below locations throughout the County.
If only bringing a Christmas tree for shredding to Wexford County Council’s 4 household recycling centres, there is no entry charge. €2 entry charge applies for all other waste accepted at Wexford County Council’s 4 household recycling centres.
Christmas Trees can only be left on the dates below.
Wexford County Council’s 4 Household Recycling Centres:
Enniscorthy Household Recycling Centre, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. Gorey Household Recycling Centre, Gorey Business Park, Ramstown, Gorey.
New Ross Household Recycling Centre, Hewittsland, New Ross. Holmestown Household Recycling Centre, Barntown, Wexford.
Dates: Thursday 2nd January to Saturday 4th January 2025.
Tuesday 7th January to Saturday 11th January 2025.
Closed Mondays and Sundays.
Opening Times:
Open Tues – Fri 8.15am – 12 noon, 1pm – 4pm.
Open Saturday 8.15 – 12 noon, 1pm – 3pm.
Closed for lunch 12 noon – 1pm.
Redmond Park, Wexford:
Thursday 2nd January to Saturday the 11th January 2025.
Opening Times: Monday – Sunday 9am – 5pm.
Rosslare Harbour / Kilrane Sports & Social Centre, Ballyknocknen, St. Brendan’s Estate, Rosslare Harbour: Thursday 2nd January to Saturday the 11th January 2025.
Opening Times: Monday – Sunday 9am – 5pm.
Bunclody AFC: Sliabh Ros, Bunclody.
Thursday 2nd January to Saturday the 11th January 2025.
Opening Times: Monday – Saturday 9am – 6pm.
Make a note of your nearest location and please remember that you may bring your tree and leave it on the specified dates. For further information please contact the Environment Section, Wexford County Council on 053 9196000.
Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and
Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)
Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.
Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm from Wednesday 8th of January 2025 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 7th of February 2025.
Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00 pm on Monday 24th of February 2025.
Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)
Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.
Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm from Wednesday 8th of January 2025 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 7th of February 2025.
Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00pm on Monday 24th of February 2025.
Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)
Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.
Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm from Wednesday 8th of January 2025 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 7th of February 2025.
Roads:
• Millquarter (Units 1-3, 4A, 6-19, 20A, 21A, 22A, 23A, 24A, 25A, 26A, 27A, 28-53 & 70-90), Knockmullen, Gorey, Co. Wexford. Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00pm on Monday 24th of February 2025.
Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)
Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.
Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm from Wednesday 8th of January 2025 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 7th of February 2025.
Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00pm on Monday 24th of February 2025.
Notice of Public Consultation on Wexford County Council Draft Noise Action Plan 2024-2028
Environmental Noise Regulations, 2018 (S.I. No. 549 of 2018, as amended)
Submissions are invited from the public on the draft Noise Action Plan 2024-2028, prepared under S.I. No. 549 of 2018 (as amended), to address environmental noise in Wexford (as defined in the above regulations). The draft Noise Action Plan is prepared by Wexford County Council supported by Noise Consultants Limited.
The draft Noise Action Plan is aimed at the strategic long-term management of environmental noise from major roads, rail and airports (as defined by the regulations). It does not apply to noise from domestic activities, neighbourhood noise, noise at workplaces or noise inside means of transport or due to military activities in military areas.
The draft Noise Action Plan 2024 – 2028 will be available for public inspection from 9.00am Thursday 2nd January 2025 for a period of 6 weeks until 5.00pm Thursday 13th February 2025.
• Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93 (during opening hours 9am - 1pm and 2pm - 5pm).
• Wexford Town Library, Mallin St., Wexford.
• Gorey Library, Gorey Civic Square, The Avenue, Gorey.
A copy of these draft Bye Laws may be obtained from Wexford Borough District on request upon payment of a fee of €10 or alternatively can be viewed on the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/
The plan may also be accessed on the Council website: www.wexfordcoco.ie
Submissions on the draft Noise Action Plan may be made either:
• electronically via the Wexford County Council Website
• or in writing (marked Draft Noise Action Plan) to: Environment Section, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93.
• Submissions must be made in writing no later than 5:00pm on Thursday the 13th February 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Submissions should be in one medium only i.e. online or hard copy.
Submissions should include your name and email address and where relevant, details of any organisation, community group etc. you represent.
All comments, including names and addresses of those making submissions and observation, submitted to Wexford County Council regarding this review, may form part of a report presented at the monthly meeting of Wexford County Council. Accordingly, they will be included in the minutes of that meeting and may appear in the public domain. A summary of the public consultation will also be included in the final Noise Action Plan and therefore details of submissions may also appear within the final Noise Action Plan. Wexford County Council will retain data for no longer than is necessary and in accordance with the Councils Data Protection Policy and Privacy Statement (available to view on www.wexfordcoco.ie
Draft Casual Trading Bye-Laws
2025 Borough District of Wexford Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council and the Mayor and Members of Wexford Borough District, in exercise of the powers conferred upon them by Section 6 of the Casual Trading Act 1995 and as a Municipal District function as outlined in Schedule 3 Part 1 of the Local Government Reform Act, 2014, intend to make Casual Trading Bye-Laws for Wexford Borough District, entitled the “Casual Trading Bye-Laws, Borough District of Wexford, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025”.
The Draft Casual Trading Bye-Laws may be inspected from Wednesday, 8th January, 2025 to Tuesday 11th February, 2025, by appointment only, at
• Wexford Borough District Offices, 61 The Bullring, Wexford.
• Wexford County Council Offices, Carricklawn, Wexford
• or via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/
Submissions on the Draft Bye-Laws may be made, in writing, to the District Manager, Wexford Borough District, 61 The Bullring, Wexford or by email to wexfordborough@wexfordcoco.ie not later than 5.00pm on Tuesday 25th February, 2025.
www.deadsureapp.com
Draft Street Performance Bye-Laws 2025 Wexford Borough District
Notice is hereby given that the Mayor and Members of Wexford Borough District, pursuant to Section 200 of the Local Government Act, 2001, and as a Municipal District function as outlined in Schedule 3 Part 1 of the Local Government Reform Act, 2014, intend to make Street Performance Bye-Laws for the purposes of regulating and controlling Street Performers within the Borough District of Wexford and for provision to be made for the imposition of fixed payments in accordance with Section 206 of the Local Government Act, 2001, entitled “Street Performance Bye-Laws, 2025, Wexford Borough District.”
The Draft Street Performance Bye-Laws, 2025 may be inspected from Wednesday, 8th January, 2025 to Tuesday 11th February, 2025, by appointment only, at
• Wexford Borough District Offices, 61 The Bullring, Wexford.
• Wexford County Council Offices, Carricklawn, Wexford
• or via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/
Submissions on the Draft Bye-Laws may be made, in writing, to the District Manager, Wexford Borough District, 61 The Bullring, Wexford or by email to wexfordborough@wexfordcoco.ie not later than 5.00pm on Tuesday 25th February, 2025 and any such submissions will be considered.
A copy of these draft Bye Laws may be obtained from Wexford Borough District on request upon payment of a fee of €10 or alternatively can be viewed on the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post: Facilities Manager (Minimum Temporary 3 Year Contract)
Selection for all posts will be by means of interview and candidates may be shortlisted based on applications submitted. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.
Qualifications, application forms and further particulars for all posts are available from our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie
Please note all applications for the above post must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie
Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above post.
Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for this post is: 5.00pm on Thursday, 23rd January, 2025.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Fáiltíonn Comhairle Contae
Loch Garman roimh iarratasóirí do na poist seo a leanas:
Bainisteoir Saoráidí
(Conradh Sealadach, ar a laghad 3 Bliana)
Is trí agallamh a dhéanamh a dhéanfar rogha do na poist go léir agus d’fhéadfaí iarratasóirí a chur ar ghearrliosta bunaithe ar na hiarratais a chuirfear ar aghaidh. D’fhéadfaí painéil a bhunú óna bhféadfaí folúntais a líonadh amach anseo.
Tá fáil ar cháilíochtaí, foirmeacha iarratais agus sonraí breise do na poist go léir ár an láithreán gréasáin www.wexfordcoco.ie
Tabhair ar aird nach mór gach iarratas ar na poist thuasluaite a Chlóscríomh agus a chur ar aghaidh ar Ríomhphost amháin chuig recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie
NÍ GHLACFAR le cóipeanna crua priontáilte don post thuasluaite.
An dáta deiridh a ghlacfar le foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe don post thuasluaite ná: 5.00pm Déardaoin, an 23ú Eanair 2025.
Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.
Notice of Levying of Commercial Rate for 2025 in the County of Wexford
Notice is hereby given under Section 3 (1) of the Local Government Rates (Financial Procedures) Regulations 2023 that the Annual Rate on Valuation for all rateable properties within the rating authority of Wexford County Council has been levied.
The Annual Rate on Valuation for Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford for the financial year ending on the 31st December 2025 is 0.253.
The said rates calculated under Section 4(1) of the Local Government (Rates and other Matters) Act 2019, as amended, will be payable from 01st January 2025.
Dated this 08th day of January 2025.
Eddie Taaffe
Chief Executive Wexford County Council
www.wexfordcoco.ie
customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
Call for Expressions of Interest for the Supply of Social Housing and Development Land
Wexford County Council has an ambitious 5 year capital programme under the Housing For All Action Plan. As part of a range of housing solutions, the housing authority is seeking expressions of interest from private developers, building contractors and landowners.
Wexford County Council is seeking expressions of interest from interested parties who are capable of delivering turnkey units within the County or the provision of development land.
Wexford County Council will consider land or units in areas which have an established need. An explanatory document will outline the areas of need across the County.
In particular, Wexford County Council is seeking: -
• Turnkey developments. Acquisitions are on a turnkey basis; potential payment is a fixed price lump sum, on completion of a development, within an agreed timeframe.
• Mixed development schemes where social residential components could be incorporated.
• Development land, varying from small sites (circa 4-6 units) in rural areas with modest demand to larger sites in urban areas (circa 50-70).
• Delivery of adapted dwellings to meet the requirements of those with specific needs.
All developments and associated works must be fully compliant with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government guidelines and standards.
A preliminary proposal via the official application form will need to be submitted along with required documentation.
Application forms must be received by 5pm on Thursday 20th February 2025
Application forms and accompanying explanatory documents should be requested by emailing housingcapital@wexfordcoco.ie or may be downloaded from www.wexfordcoco.ie/housing/supply-of-turnkey-units-and-development-land
Wexford County Council is subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2014.
Wheekock’s Christmas Tree Farm, Moneyhore, Davidstown, Enniscorthy, 27th November 2024.
Killegney Early Years visit to Wheelock’s Christmas Tree Farm
Left: Fun and frolics. Above: Killegney Early Years proprietor Orlagh Doyle looking after the children with hot chocolate. Below L-R: 1. Maria and her buddies. 2. Lots of fun and excitement. 3. Orlagh doing well to keep up! 4. Orlagh leading the way!
Left: The children at the Farm. Above left: Luke. Above right: Fionn.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER
PAT O’CONNOR
087-2870006
Top left: The children ready for their big adventure.
Top right: Hot chocolate time. Above right: Killegney Early Years proprietor Orlagh with the children.
Left: Orlagh and Mary. Below: Mary Wheelock with the children. Right: Getting lost among all the trees.
Below right: The perfect hiding spot!
Bottom left: Jack and Ciaran. Bottom centre: Ciaran.
Bottom right: Bonnie, Mary Jane, Philip and Fiadh.
Bookmark Competition Prize-giving Ceremony at St Patrick’s School with thanks
to South East Rock'n'Roll Club and Easons
St Patrick’s School, Enniscorthy, Class Winners:
Class Sunflower: Edward Furlong & Billy Ryan
Class Snowdrop: Emily Kennedy & Mason Whelan
Class Lily: Callie Murphy & Kane Killeen
Class Bluebell: Emi Brkanac & Senan Hogan
Class Buttercup: Tija Paulaviciute & Evie Mitchel
Class Violet: Evan Noctor & Zoryana Hohol
Class Daisy: Ben Fitzgearld & Billy O’Rourke Winters
Class Rose: Samuel Doyle & Charlie Durrant
Class Poppy: Tyra Ennis & Evan Bolger
Class Daffodil: Robyn Byrne & Leah Doyle
Class Primrose: Martin Budsicz & Liam Fitzgearld
Class Holly: Shea O’Brien & Caoimhe Noctor
Class Alder: Jacob Poole & Nadine Carr
Class Ash: Kenneth McDonald & Ruairdhi Doyle
Class Sycamore: Daria Matecka & Dylan Hamilton
Class Hawthorn: Calvin Webster & Ethan Culleton
Class Rowan: Joe Cunningham & Riley Murray
Class Yew: Mouhanad Aryan & Evan Doyle
Class Willow: Cathal Doyle & Cian Philips
Class Cedar: Anna Gill
Class Elm: Gracie Gregan & Bobbie Jones
Class Oak: Amber Duncan & Jamie Furlong
Class Birch: Bruklins Smugais & Annie Mernagh
Class Saplings: Christy Connors & Finbar Flynn
Class Aspen: Kaitlin Whitty & Cody Rossiter
Class Beech: Miarose McEvoy & James Bujauskas n
Friday, 22nd November 2024, saw a wonderful gathering in St. Patrick's Special School, Enniscorthy, when members of South East Rock'n'Roll Club and Easons (Court Street, Enniscorthy) were welcomed by Lee Rogers, staff and pupils. The occasion was the Bookmark Competition Prize-giving Ceremony, during which over €600 worth of Eason Vouchers were presented, courtesy of Damien Byrne, to the many Bookmark Competition winners among the wonderful, fun-loving pupils of St. Patrick's.
It may have been a Bookmark Prize-giving Ceremony, but when the presentation of Vouchers, which was so ably organised by St. Patrick's staff, was over, all present threw themselves into the rock'n'roll dancing, with music provided by DJ Vince. Young and not-so-young rocked and jived to the rock'n'roll classics. What a wonderful morning it was, during which the real stars were the pupils of St. Patrick's. Congratulations and appreciation to all who made such a joyous occasion possible.
St Patrick’s School, 22nd November 2024
Enniscorthy Scouts Investiture
19th November 2024 at Enniscorthy Rugby Club
Congratulations to Sarah Kelly and all involved in getting the new ‘11th Wexford Enniscorthy Scouts’ group up and running. The first Investiture event took place in November 2024 at Enniscorthy Rugby Club at which there was standing room only such was the huge attendance.
The hosts were Provincial Support Officer Dermot Moore, County Commissioner Dano O’Leary, Chief Scout Eoin Callanan and Provincial Commissioner Jemma Brennan. Sarah would like to mention in particular Dermot Moore (Provincial Support Officer) who was Sarah’s first contact in getting the Scouts started here in Enniscorthy.
At this very first investiture, the beavers and cubs made their scout promise and their leaders made the promise too, and received their club badges and their own group one designed by the leaders. And the hosts gave out the woggles and neckers to the new 11th Wexford Enniscorthy Scouts group.
Sarah Kelly, the local group leader, and the other organisers, wish to thank the parents for all their support leading up to the investiture, “They have been amazing these past weeks and the kids have just been fantastic too,” says Sarah. In addition to Sarah as Group Leader, the other key roles locally include: Section Leader Cubs – Pól; Section Leader Beavers – Mags; Chair – Henry; Secretary – Thrisha; Treasurer –Lee; and Club Leaders Natasha, Alan, Catherine, Rachel, Axel and Danii. Without these volunteers it wouldn't have been possible to set up the group.
Sarah says, “It's been a wonderful experience so far and I hope it continues for a very long time.”
Scouting Ireland, through its various youth-led programmes, delivers a range of opportunities for young people to develop their skills, talents and leadership potential through outdoor adventure and by working with their Scout Group. The focus is on progressive self-education, known as the Scout Method, which aims to nurture the mental, physical and holistic growth and development of young people of all ages. Scouting Ireland welcomes all members and enables young people to build the skills they need to maximise life's opportunities.
The Enniscorthy Group is initially starting with Beavers aged 6, 7 and 8, and Cubs aged 9,10, and 11.
The Group meets on Tuesdays.
To learn more, email scoutsenniscorthy@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/3808769856110439/ n
Sarah Kelly, Enniscorthy group leader.
The ‘11th Wexford Enniscorthy Scouts’ group is up and running. The first Investiture event took place on 19th Novembver 2024 at Enniscorthy Rugby Club. The Enniscorthy Group is initially starting with Beavers aged 6, 7 and 8, and Cubs aged 9,10, and 11.
Pics: Courtesy of Niall Smith.
Enniscorthy’s new male voice choir takes centre stage
ENNISCORTHY'S NEW MALE VOICE CHOIR MADE THEIR MELODIC PUBLIC DEBUT AT THE PRESENTATION ARTS CENTRE, ENNISCORTHY, LAST MONTH, JOINED BY THE WONDERFUL ST SENAN'S PARISH CHOIR.
Enniscorthy's first-ever male voice choir, under the expert guidance of Linda O'Rourke, gave their debut public performance at the Presentation Arts Centre last month, joined by the wonderful St. Senan’s Parish Choir, who provided vocal support for the evening.
The concert was a showcase for the group which only formed in September 2024 and which has in a few short months gathered a dedicated ensemble of voices and developed a repertoire of songs that delighted the capacity audience on 7th December last.
Spokesperson for the choir Seamus Whitney said: “Thanks to everyone for supporting our concert, it was a great night. Thanks in particular to all the Community Workers and Youth Club for helping out, we raised a lot of money for our community.”
The choir is proudly supported by Creative Places Enniscorthy: www.creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie n
Some pics courtesy of Enjoy Enniscorthy.
SINGERS AND AUDIENCE MEMBERS ENJOYING THE ENNISCORTHY NEW MALE VOICE CHOIR CONCERT ON 7TH DECEMBER 2024 AT THE PRESENATION ARTS CENTRE, ENNISCORTHY.
In celebration of International Day for People with Disabilities, Enniscorthy-based Reach Ability (formerly CWCW), proudly supported by Brian Cunningham Management, presented Trash Panache in the National Opera House, Wexford, on December 4th, 2024.
This inspiring event showcased creativity, inclusivity, and artistic expression, offering a platform for individuals with disabilities to shine. The event was an unforgettable celebration of fashion, performance and talent from across Co. Wexford. Trash Panache focused on sustainable fashion and encouraging participants to create stunning outfits made from recyclable material.
If you didn't make it along to the National Opera House for the event, then here's a great little video capturing the wonderful spirit of the occasion... https://www.facebook.com/share/v/12DAkAXaVvo/
Well done to the staff members of Reach Ability for organising this event which was all about breaking boundaries and showing that fashion, art, and performance, have no limits when it comes to talent and imagination. n
Oulart The Ballagh
Above left: Michael Doyle and Eileen Smith. Above right: Phyllis Walsh, Joy Wells and Nicola Croke. Right: Mick Jacob and Peter Keane. Below left: Phil Montgrory and Mary Pat Mullen. Below right: Monea Prendergast, Eileen Dempsey and Mary McDermott. Bottom left: Anne and Pat Dunne. Bottom centre: Peggy Fox and Martin Leacy. Bottom right: Kathleen Dawson and Nan Redmond.
A nostalgic evening at St. Mary’s in Enniscorthy Words & Pics by Maria Nolan
Ten out of ten once again to Alfie O’Sullivan and Kristyna Simko of Creative Grounds for presenting an evening of Christmas nostalgia in the edifying ambience of St. Mary’s Church, Enniscorthy, on Saturday 20th December, totally immersing those in attendance in the spirit of the festive season.
The sublime Emer Barry emerged onto the candlelit altar resembling, in the best possible way, the fairy on top of the Christmas tree or the tiny dancing ballerina in the old-fashioned music box, her slim figure bedecked in demure white and gold ensemble crowned with a halo of tiny glistening stars and accompanied by friends violinist Lynda O’Connor and pianist Yvonne Collier. The trio delighted the St. Mary’s audience with festive favourites O Holy Night, White Christmas, Silent Night, Walking In The Air, Winter, Fire and Snow, Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, The Enniscorthy Christmas Carol, peppering her delightful repertoire with pieces like Somewhere Over the Rainbow and World of Pure Imagination from films she associates with the festive period – The Wizard of Oz and Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
Donning a stunning, sparkling, filmstar, red Christmas gown, Emer rocked Santa Baby, a first I’ll wager for St. Mary’s, the operatic aria Loretta, and everyone’s favourite Rocking Around the Christmas Tree as co-performers Lynda and Yvonne added some Hungarian gypsy music and the hauntingly beautiful The Coolin to the eclectic mix before Emer ended the wonderful occasion with the memorable Time to Say Goodbye.
An evening of splendour, magic, nostalgia, and beauty, the perfect Christmas event and thank you to Emer, Lynda, Yvonne and especially Alfie and Kristyna for pulling yet another white rabbit out of the proverbial hat to entertain and delight us here in Enniscorthy, and to St. Mary’s and Rev. Nicola Halford for providing the exquisite setting. n
New members welcome at two singing groups
Creative Places Enniscorthy is thrilled to be supporting Enniscorthy’s new men’s choir which meets up at 7pm every Monday night at Templeshannon Community Centre.
Creative Places Enniscorthy is delighted to be working with the local community as part of this project and wants to thank Linda and Seamus for their dedication and organising. All are welcome to participate – no auditions Enjoy singing
your favourite songs while making new friends Please contact 087 2930510 for more details.
For more information on Creative Places Enniscorthy please visit the website creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie
In addition, the Templars Singing Group meets up every Thursday morning at 10.30am at Templeshannon Community Centre. For more information, phone 053 9237511. n
Riverside Park Hotel wedding showcase
Caim School Parents’ Association Bake Sale
13th December 2024
Above left: Sean Cooper and Fay Boland.
Above right:
Andra Mania Retruichi. Left: Aileen Butler and Roisin Boland.
Right:
Maeve and Catherine Delaney and Claire Ruth.
Below left: Rebecca Ryan and Joanne Delaney.
Below centre: Emer Broaders.
Below right: Mia Bobd and Aoife Hemmingway.
Delightful Dollies annual dinner dance
Riverside Park Hotel, 7th December 2024
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER
PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Above
Above right: Winnie O’Connor and Edel Kenny.
Right: Winnie Connolly and Antoinette Davis.
Below left: Mary and Kitty O’Brien.
Below right: Mary Kezens, Liz Kavanagh, Teresa Ring and Stephanie Murphy.
Top left: Patricia Wheeler, Elizabeth O’Brien, Mary Kells, Ann Collins, and Maeve Whelan. Top right: Caroline Stamp.
left: Ita Kinnard, Kay Leacy, Bridie Gordan, Maureen Peare and Margaret Brady.
Acko
Don’t Talk
I’m releasing a new single on the 17th of January
The day I sent my last album to be manufactured I started working on Album number 3. I had a backlog of songs so I started developing them and it became apparent quite quickly that some songs seemed to be going in a similar direction and others were going in a lot of different directions. And then I started writing more.
I didn't want to make a double album. So, I've decided I'm gonna release a single a month this year and an album sometime in early 2026. None of the singles will be on Album 3.
They'll be mostly new songs, however there is a couple of old songs I have hanging around like itches I need to scratch that might be included. They'll each have a "B Side"
The "B's" might be new songs, remixed old songs or maybe some of those old itches I mentioned.
Acko Jan. 2025
Don’t Talk is available from Bandcamp And all the usual streaming platforms
Contact - 0872948075
stdominic@outlook.ie
Above left: Bridget Major, Pauline Gogan and Jean Hendrick.
‘SOUNDS OF OUR TOWN’ LISTENING PARTY
Words by Dorn Simon, pics by Damien Smullen.
Friday the thirteenth is noted in modern culture as somewhat unlucky – not for those attending the ‘Sounds of Our Town’ listening party in Enniscorthy’s Presentation Arts Centre it wasn’t!
‘Sounds of Our Town’ is yet another success story of the many projects and initiatives funded by Creative Places Enniscorthy which aims to bring the community and the arts together, streamline ideas into creative action, bring the fringes into the fold, and allow an all-inclusive community to get involved.
The ‘Sounds of Our Town’ project was driven by Brendan Carthy of The Orchard Recording Studio.
It involved multiple local musicians, old and new, young and older. Some had never met before and most had never played together. The idea was to gather individual musicians into makeshift groups and give them a 4-hour slot in
the studio to write, compose, rehearse and record a track within that time slot.
Eight overall groups were put together creating eight tracks all completely diverse from the other.
Some turned out Bluesy, whilst others were reminiscent of the New York underground Jazz scene, others Folky, and well, let’s just say that given no prior knowledge of either the songs or who they may be placed with, the eight groups and compositions were nothing short of impressive.
Brendan is known for his skill in music production, as a musician himself, and for being easygoing and encapsulating the very best from all who he works with, this endeavour projected his prowess further. The evening was well attended, partially met by the musicians taking part, and a good audience arriving to hear the results.
A warm welcome, casual atmosphere,
low lighting, lovely sandwiches and finger food, wine and soda were at hand for all to enjoy.
Everyone had the chance to mingle, meet & greet, chat with Brendan, eat and be merry.
Once the show got underway, it was a musical evening full of unknown delights, as each piece was introduced, naming the musicians, the feel for the music created, and then the debut public listening of each of the eight tracks.
Memorable pieces of the evening drew you into hearing every note, bassline, drumbeat, or in one case, the tenor saxophone of Stephanie McDermott which was mesmerising alongside the bass of Pat Murphy and piano by Chulainn O Faolain.
Another track had basslines that flowed expertly by young musician Archie Laws. Drummer Matt Pentony broadened his horizons from being a death-
core metal drummer to delivering the ambience of the piece that group G composed.
The vocals on some of the tracks were top-notch having been put with virtual strangers and given such a short time to familiarise the dynamics, each participant gave their all and opened up to the unknown willingly, creatively and professionally.
The evening ended with a short video, recorded by Bryan Steacy, each group were individually filmed with voice-over narratives and ‘to camera’ interviews with the participants, each having their say and touching upon the same thread, that music is life, music is therapeutic, music is a voice for those who need their souls to speak and that music is more than a creative avenue – music is as visceral as the heart pumping blood through our veins.
The project consisted of the following musicians:
Group A:
Dean Sludds, Tim Flood, Acko Atkinson, Paula O’Reilly, Evan Delaney.
Group B:
Stephanie McDermott, Dave Duffy, Chulainn O Faolain, Pat Murphy.
Group C:
Brandon Murphy, Eoin Devereux, Carmel Daly, Muire Ni Murchu, Paul Grace.
Group D:
Jack Cloke, Robert Martin, Sharon Clancy, Pa Doyle, Iain King.
Group E:
Noel Quaid, Richard King, Lise Galataud, Jack Ryan.
Group F:
Kyle O’Leary, Sean Daly Carney, Oisin Daly Carney, Fionn, Kate Mahon, Fran Mahon.
Group G:
Niamh Crowhurst, Stephanie McKenna, Wally McKenna, Matt Pentony, Anita Mahon.
Group H:
Archie Laws, Eddie Wilson, Tony Rex, Stephen Donegan. n
Enjoying the Live Crib (and Santa) in Enniscorthy
THE IFA CENTRE IN ENNISCORTHY HOSTED A LIVE CRIB ON 8TH DECEMBER, JOINED BY THE ENNISCORTHY GOSPEL CHOIR, AND OF COURSE THE MAN HIMSELF – SANTA, TAKING TIME OUT FROM HIS BUSY SCHEDULE. VISITORS ON THE DAY WERE ABLE TO 'HANG TOUGH' THANKS TO WEXFORD MACRA, WITH CYRIL WHEELOCK SHOWING HOW IT SHOULD BE DONE!!! A GREAT AFTERNOON AND ALL PROCEEDS TO ST PATRICK'S SPECIAL SCHOOL.
Above left: Cynthia Ní Mhurchú MEP visits the Crib.
Above right: Cayleen with pet rabbit.
Left: Santa with Eve, Roan, Aida and Faye Boland.
Below left: Aisling and Isla Moulton.
Right: Cyril Wheelock hanging tough.
Top right: Santa with Jake.
Above left: Eloisa and Kirtis Gray. Above right: Enniscorthy Gospel Choir with help from some young local vocalists. Left: Baby Natalie being minded at the Christmas tree. Below left: Aaron Conway and Emma Behan. Below right: Helen Cosgrave with her grandchildren.
Below left: Emma Behan with Kate and pet rabbit. Below centre: Hanging tough! Bottom right: Some of the animals in the Live Crib.
ENNISCORTHY CREDIT UNIOON
The Slaney News was delighted to drop into the ever welcoming Enniscorthy Credit Union on 6th December to meet the winners of their annual art competition. We were welcomed by Áine Doyle, Marketing Manager of Enniscorthy Credit Union, and Mary Moulds, the Operations Manager, as we came together to celebrate and honour the fantastic young artists present. Áine Doyle rightly noting that, "It's important to celebrate the wins in life!!" Enniscorthy Credit Union was started in 1964 by a group of volunteers to allow members to save money and pool resources to help one another. It is now 60 years old this year and has offices in Enniscorthy as well as Murrintown, Taghmon and Ballymurn, covering the heartland of Co. Wexford going all the way from the Blackstairs mountains down to the sea in Rosslare.
With 48 Primary Schools and 6 Secondary Schools within Enniscorthy Credit Union's area, it was no surprise that they received more than a thousand entries with the winners coming from Kiltealy, Oulart, Bree, Oylegate, St. Mary's, and Davidstown National Schools, and from St. Patrick's School, St. Mary's CBS and Coláiste Abbain! So, a wide spread of schools was represented, with Áine telling the young attendees that, "You are all a credit to your school."
The annual credit union art competition is one of the most prominent and longest running competitions in Ireland. The theme of the competition this year was 'The Joys of Life', and the judging panel was delighted with the standard this year which was extremely high, making it exceedingly difficult for them to pick the eventual winners.
Áine said, "If we look at the beautiful imagery depicted in your 'Joys', it is heartwarming to see that the Joys in life remain the simple things, family, pets, nature, connection, memories and pastimes like reading, dancing, and sports.
“We want to congratulate all our fantastic artists here today; we hope you continue to put pen to paper in the future and we hope that any budding artists remember that their first commissioned artwork was here with us in Enniscorthy Credit Union.”
The competition had five age categories as well as additional needs categories. Everyone present received a certificate and a money prize as well as a bag of goodies! See accompanying list of winners and runners-up.
The winning entries will now go forward to the regional stage of the competition. We wish them all well.
Mary Moulds, Operations Manager, Enniscorthy Credfit Union, is pictured with all the winners. n
ON ART COMPETITION 2024
ENNISCORTHY CREDIT UNION
ART COMPETITION 2024
FULL RESULTS ON PREVIOUS PAGE
Top left: Ella Wall 14-17 yrs (additional needs) 1st Place.
Top right: Holly Donaldson 14-17 yrs (additional needs) 3rd Place.
Left: The Hemingway family from Kiltealy didn’t leave empty handed!
Right: The McCarthy family from Kiltealy delighted they attended the prizegiving event. Below left: Denis Bumbu, 2nd place, 14-17 yrs.
First off I would like to take this opportunity to say a big Happy New Year to all our readers, I hope you will all have a wonderful year. Thank you for all of your support last year and I really hope you enjoyed the reviews. I would also like to thank Frank for giving me the platform to do something I love doing, really appreciate that Frank! Also a big thanks to Wexford Omniplex Cinema for supporting me to watch all the latest films released. I hope 2025 will be an exciting year for film. I was disappointed last year with a lot of films so here’s hoping for a better year in 2025. It is always a difficult thing to do, picking a list of the top 10 films I saw last year. Honestly, for me there was only one really great movie all year. This is really hard. As I sit here thinking of all the movies I saw throughout 2024 but yet find myself struggling to come up with this list. Just as an example, the biggest movie of the year was Marvel’s Wolverine/Deadpool film, it made over a billion at the box office but yet did not make my top ten list. I did not like that film at all, so I have to be honest about it. Right... here is my top 10.
10. CONCLAVE. A film about the death of the Pope. The politics and conversations that take place to find a new Pope. It is an intriguing film that is acted throughout with some class. It does try to be a bit too clever for its own right but it’s good enough to get to number 10.
9. TRANSFORMERS ONE. This film was a nice little surprise as I hated all the Michael Bay Transformers movies. I really did not know what to expect with this one but it was really good and targeted all ages with some beautiful animation. This film deserved to be talked about a lot more than it has. Really good stuff.
8. CARRY ON. A Netflix action thriller set at Christmas time. Sounds like Die Hard but let’s not get carried away here. The good news is that this film is a good, solid, action flick produced by Netflix and it really surprised me for one. For every 10 Netflix movies you could throw 9 of them away. But definitely not this one. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed.
7. REBEL RIDGE. Another top action film produced by Netflix. This film had me from the first second and never let up. This really surprised me and I would highly recommend. As good an action film as you get throughout 2024. Bravo.
6. BEVERLY HILLS COP 4. It was so good to see Eddie Murphy back as the great Axel Foley in this 4th instalment of the brilliant Beverly Hills Cop franchise. The 3rd entry was complete garbage so I was
sceptical of a 4th entry especially with so many years gone by but I am very happy to report I had a lot of fun with this film and it was great to go back to the way they used to make ‘em. Brilliant stuff again.
5. SUPERMAN – THE CHRISTOPHER REEVE STORY. This was a fantastic film/doc about the great man himself. A hero to millions of us growing up as Superman. Then through a terrible accident he became a hero to us all without wearing a cape. It is a fascinating inside look at a truly remarkable story of a real life hero.
4. BAD BOYS 4. You know exactly what you are going to get when you put these guys together. We are back on an exciting, action-packed adventure as usual with some wisecracking jokes. I have always had a good time with these movies and this one is the same. A good action flick to enjoy.
3. NOSFERATU. A gorgeous-looking tale of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. This is a beautiful film with some great film-sets and costumes. Dark, eerie, atmospheric tale. With some really strong performances throughout. A film to get your fangs into.
2. CHALLENGES. The 2nd best film I saw this year. A love triangle based around a game of tennis. Absolutely riveting stuff here and it is brilliantly executed. This is a brilliant movie and one you should check out.
1. DUNE 2. A pure masterpiece. It’s about all I can say for this film. This film blew me away this year and it is by far the best of the year. I was left mouth opened with tears in my eyes. Just out of this world. So folks that’s it. I hope you will check out some of these films if you haven’t already. Thank you again and here’s to 2025 cinema. n
Dune 2
A Taste of Christmas Words & Pics by Maria Nolan
Innovative pair Alfie O’Sullivan and Kristyna Simko of Creative Grounds, Enniscorthy, have recently begun ‘A Taste Of’ experiences at their deliciously eclectic premises on Irish Street.
First they presented A Taste of Spain complete with tasty tapas and traditional Spanish guitar, and on Saturday 21st December of course the delectable fare was of a festive nature at their Taste of Christmas event.
With seasonal nibbles prepared by Mine Host Alfie, served with a smile by Kristyna and Conor, including mini quiches, sausage rolls, ham, cranberry and brie toasties, vol au vents, nut roast, turkey and ham rolls, petite mince pies, and Christmas pudding and cake slices all washed down with spicy mulled wine to the delightful strains of the laid back, melodious duo Eddie Crean and Richard King, creating the perfect stress-free seasonal ambience in the most comfortable
and relaxed surroundings, the most ideal run into the Christmas mania.
Once again Alfie and Kristyna continue to provide us with interesting and creative social alternatives here in Enniscorthy, so do keep an eye out for their next ‘Taste Of’ experience – A Taste of France on Saturday 25th January – sure to be another charming culinary and musical encounter –so book your place at the table without delay as these nights are becoming increasingly popular and sell out quickly. n
Alfie O’Sullivan and Kristyna Simko of Creative Grounds.
Maria Nolan enjoying the festive fare.
Enniscorthy Panto Debut Words by Maria Nolan
A ball was certainly had by all who attended Enniscorthy Panto’s first production, Cinderella, recently in the Astro Active Centre at Bellefield.
The new Enniscorthy Panto Committee – Niamh Bolger, Maeve McCauley, Jacinta Kelly and Gearóid McCauley pulled out all the stops to bring this festive favourite fairytale to life with some magical performances by some of Enniscorthy’s skilled and seasoned panto players joined by some very talented newcomers.
Great credit to Director/Producer Gearóid McCauley who got his cast spot on with Alice Metcalf as the perfectly wholesome, sweet, and kind Cinderella as opposed to her very wicked Stepmother – the sharp-witted and sharp-tongued Therese Canavan Bolger, both ladies playing the roles with gusto, in fact it must be said Therese looked to be completely relishing the part.
The not-so-ugly stepsisters Hollie Cloke and Olena Cheney surprised everyone really coming into the show in the second half displaying powerful vocals coupled with good onstage presence.
And speaking of onstage presence, Astra McCauley was elegantly regale as the fabulous Fairy Godmother, well done to Graham Finnerty on costumes, hair, and makeup, this lady really looked the part as did Jeanette Sidney Kelly as the loveable Widow Honeybum, again hair, makeup, and cos-
tumes adding to her wonderful performance that had echoes of the delightful Maureen Potter – shades of Dublin accent and all.
Prince Charming Tom Joyce and novice pantomime performer Janet Daly formed the perfect onstage partnership, each playing well off the other and Janet making her stage debut look easy.
Niamh Bolger in true panto style played a most likeable and believable Buttons, and King Charming, aka Dave Metcalf whose slightly doddering, shuffling, body language with just the right amount of emphasis portrayed the elderly King eager to pass on the reigns – if you’ll pardon the pun.
The cast’s large group of children and young teenagers were magical, many of them looking like naturals, totally at ease on stage auguring well for the future of panto in the town.
The wonderful tradition of panto was poignantly displayed with father and daughter duo Dave and Alice Metcalf performing, and mother and daughter Therese Canavan Bolger and Molly Bolger, who might I add is already shaping up to be a chip off the old block with her animated expressions and attention to detail, and the McCauley family involvement of Maeve, Astra and Gearóid ensuring that panto is safe in the hands of this new Enniscorthy committee, and we look forward to making many happy family memories in the years to come as it becomes an annual festive event for all of us. n
Alice Metcalf and Astra McCauley.
The talented cast of Enniscorthy Panto’s first production, ‘Cinderella’, staged at the Astro Active Centre at Bellefield in the run-up to Christmas. PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Christmas Coffee Morning & Cake Sale in Crossabeg
Organised by Annis Kehoe, 7th December 2024.
Above left: Ella Frayne, Helen James and Catherine Cullen. Above right: Bobbie and Mag Redmond.
Left: Mary McMahon and Philip Wardick.
Right: Cathryn Birmingham and Kate Banville.
Above left: Annis Kehoe with her niece May Kehoe. Above centre: Ollie and Oisin Kehoe. Above right: Fiona and Triana Wilson.
Creative Grounds news...
Creative Grounds on Irish Street, Enniscorthy, has established itself over the last year as an amazing, vibrant hub for the arts and live performance in the town.
Alfie and Kristyna are currently putting the finishing touches to major renovation works at the premises and plan to reopen on Saturday 11th January at 10am.
The first Open Mic of 2025 will be on Friday 17th January from 8pm. Each month Creative Grounds will have a guest host for the evening, starting off with one of the best young jazz gui-
tarists around, Tadgh McShane. Not to be missed! Go along to take part or just enjoy a great evening of local musical talent.
And on Saturday 18th January at 8pm enjoy a Taste of France –food, wine, music. Tickets available at Creative Grounds.
Alfie O’Sullivan and Kristyna Simko hard at work on renovating their innovative Creative Gropunds premises in Enniscorthy.
Slaney ad Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
What a wonderful Christmas event
THE GREAT COMMUNITY SPIRIT ON ENNISCORTHY'S EAST SIDE WAS IN EVIDENCE AGAIN ON 12TH DECEMBER 2024 AS A LARGE GATHERING CONVERGED ON TEMPLESHANNON COMMUNITY & CHILDCARE CENTRE FOR THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR RETIRED MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY.
ST. PATRICK’S CHRISTMAS FAIR
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER
PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
ST PATRICK’S SPECIAL SCHOOL, ENNISCORTHY, CHRISTMAS FAIR, SUNDAY 15TH DECEMBER 2024.
Top left: Santa, Jamie Furlong and Mrs Claus. Top centre: Tadgh Bruns. Top right: Alex Berry. Above left: Martin, Jesse, Katie and Bonnie Hawkins with Santa. Above right: Mary, Ava, Colm and Jack O’Flaherty. Left: Courtney, Arabella-Rose and Kyle Mundow. Right: Santa and Laylla Tobin. Below left: Aubree and Ciaran Byrne with Santa and Mrs Claus. Below right: Edel Doyle with Santa and Mrs Claus.
Festive fair at the Athenaeum
Words and pics by Maria Nolan
Our iconic Athenaeum opened its doors before Christmas to a lovely festive craft fair due to the innovative, hardworking and creative Maura Flannery.
A director and outstanding committee member since the restoration group came together in 2010, Maura has always had the wellbeing of this beautiful building at the centre of our town and its history close to her heart.
And in the run-up to Christmas, due to her most earnest efforts, the beautiful Athenaeum auditorium looked splendid as it lent itself to an array of crafts, art, jewellery, knitwear, honey producing, woodwork, and wreath making developed and designed by a variety of local craftspeople along with creative TY students from Enniscorthy CBS and FCJ Bunclody, and displays of Ukrainian craftsmanship in the form of Christmas wreaths and knitted toys.
Well done Maura and all the stall holders for creating this lovely Yuletide oasis in one of our most treasured town edifices. n
Creative Grounds –
Enniscorthy’s dedicated event & performance cafe
There’s so much happening every month in Creative Grounds in Enniscorthy – book club, movie nights, art exhibitions, crafts, open mic nights, fancy dress Christmas Ball, tarot readings, spoken word, stand-up comedy, quiz nights, kids events, etc, and organising concerts in other venues such as Enniscorthy Castle and St. Mary’s Church, Enniscorthy. Check out all the goings-on and up-to-date opening hours at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/347529244738655
Call in for great locally roasted coffees, the biggest selection of speciality teas for miles around, a brand new selection of mouthwatering sandwiches, toasties & treats; and now a great selection of wines and beers to enjoy.
Celebrating its first birthday from 10th to 12th January. There'll be.... Buy ONE, get ONE for €1 on all hot drinks; lots of prizes, including a €100 voucher; a live music extravaganza; and locally based artist Alan Robinson’s first full exhibition launch!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/347529244738655 https://www.instagram.com/creativegrounds.ie/ n
What’s On Wexford
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WexfordEvents for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES
Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.
Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000. Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529.
‘Wool Ann’, on display in The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, was designed and created with love by the wonderful and talented people who attend St. John's Community Hospital in Enniscorthy.
The Day Centre in St. John's is such an important part of their daily life for those who go there. It gives attendees a chance to socialise with their friends in the company of a caring, friendly staff, and produce such imaginative pieces like ‘Wool Ann’. n
Lymington Road - Enniscorthy
Phone: 053 9236055
enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie
https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries
https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary
Young Frankenstein is coming
Wexford Light Opera Society has announced its production for 2025 will be ‘Young Frankenstein’ which will run from Monday, 28 April – Saturday, 3 May. Brought to life by the creative genius of Mel Brooks, this hilarious musical adaptation of the beloved 1974 film is packed with laughs, catchy tunes, and a wild romp through Transylvania!
Meet the Cast: Dr. Frankenstein – Colin Flynn, Igor – David Doyle, Inga – Kacey Mooney, Elizabeth Benning – Sophie Blaney-Parslow, The Monster – Stephen Byrne, Frau Blucher – Antonia Close, Inspector Hans Kemp – Brian Kelly, Harold the Hermit – Pat Lawlor, Dr. Victor Von Frankenstein – Keith Flanagan.
The award-winning production team: Director – Christine Scarry, Musical Director – David Hayes, Chorus Mistress – Eithne Corrigan, Choreographer – Therese O’Sullivan.
Find out more at: https://rebrand.ly/zt6olue
Tickets on sale: https://www.nationaloperahouse.ie/whats-on/young-frankenstein n
Enniscorthy Retirement Association
The Enniscorthy Retirement Association holds monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of every month at 2.30pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, The Promenade, Enniscorthy, with the exception of January and August.
There are regular outings, as well as various activities every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
For further details about Enniscorthy Retirement Association go along to any monthly meeting or see ‘Enniscorthy Retirement Association’ on Facebook or email: enniscorthtyretirementassociation@outlook.com
Check out the new website which is now live at www.enniscorthyretirement.net n
This membership can be purchased now for €40: https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/Q404PS9R
Please include your NAME, CONTACT NUMBER and EMAIL.
After much demand, Deadly Dinosaurs is back providing entertainment for your special day, be it a birthday, communion, or any other occasion!
For details and availability, please don't hesitate to message Luke at Deadly Dinosaurs on Facebook, Instagram, or contact 089 4774159.
Please note, Deadly Dinosaurs does not take responsibility for any cake and/or children eaten by any dinosaurs at these events!!! n
New Year, New Outrage! Outrage Entertainment Presents Ren Marabou + Support
Expect an energetic live show in Enniscorthy on January 18th as metal warriors Ren Marabou and the Berserkers travel down from the hills of Donegal to shake the dust off The Presentation Centre’s chapel stage. Ren Marabou and the Berserkers are a Viking Metal/Norse Pagan Rock band whose songs are inspired by Norse mythology.
Joining them on the night are Outrage stalwarts Pain In Vain, Adversary, and Low Ground.
Doors open at 6pm. Tickets €10 from: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873651770
Over 18? Bring a valid ID as a strict wristband system will be in operation. n
Light Up with Laura Larkin
Light Up in partnership with creative producer Laura Larkin, First Fortnight Festival, and Creative Places Enniscorthy...
Discover the magic of light painting at this fun, creative experience for all ages! Drop into workshops to create unique light art guided by local photographers. Using long-exposure photography, participants can capture light movements to spell uplifting words, draw symbols, or simply jump for joy. Each participant receives three digital photos via email, with the vibrant creations projected onto a wall at Templeshannon Community Centre, spreading light and positivity in the winter months.
Workshops:
9th of January 2025 from 4pm till 7pm in the FDYS, Coolcotts, Wexford town.
10th of January 2025 from 4pm till 7pm; FDYS, Enniscorthy.
Projection exhibition: Saturday the 11th and Sunday the 12th of January 2025.
To learn more: firstfortnight.ie
For more information on Creative Places Enniscorthy, please visit creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie n
2025 TEXACO CHILDREN’S ART COMPETITION LAUNCHED
The search to find the young artists who will excel in this year’s Texaco Children’s Art Competition has begun. Now in its 71st year it is widely acknowledged as the longest running arts sponsorship in Ireland.
The closing date for entries is Friday, 28th February. Judging will take place in March with winners to be announced in April.
Details are available at www.texacochildrensart.com or at Texaco service stations throughout the county. n
Walk With Me
This January, Luail-commissioned dance artist Lucia Kickham will host a weekly series of movement and dance workshops and is seeking participation from local people in Enniscorthy and Wexford.
Starting Saturday, January 11th, 10.00-11.45, at The Waterfront Leisure Centre, these free, weekly classes for adults will be led by Lucia Kickham in the lead-up to her community-informed dance project, Walk With Me. Beginners are welcome!
WALK WITH ME will take place along the River Slaney in Enniscorthy on March 23rd, 2025. This is one of four dance projects as part of Luail’s all-island commission, To This I Belong.
For more information, click this link: https://luail.ie/production/walk-with-me/ n
One Dot At A Time runs in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, until the 1st March 2024.
Enniscorthy Library at your service
Tel: 053 9236055
E: enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie
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 Saturdays and Mondays of bank holiday weekends. n
Stay in touch with Wexford’s library services
Wexford Public Libraries Social Media:
Wexford Public Libraries on Facebook.
Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries.
Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries.
YouTube: "Wexford Public Libraries" n
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES
Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.
The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000
The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529
The Slaney Writers group meets in Enniscorthy Library on the second Thursday of every month at 6.30pm. Next meeting is 9th January. New members are always welcome. If you are interested please contact Enniscorthy Library on 053 9236055.
The Enniscorthy Library Adult Book Club Next meeting on Thursday, 16th January at 7pm
This club meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7pm and is free to join. Book clubs are a great way to meet others and discuss books.
If you would like more information or to join, contact Enniscorthy Library on 053 9236055. All are welcome. n
Creative Places Enniscorthy
Deryn O Callaghan is the Project Co-ordinator. For any queries, suggestions or ideas, tel: 087 9578984. Email: cpenniscorthy@wexfordartscentre.ie www.creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie https://www.facebook.com/CreativePlacesEnniscorthy n
Enniscorthy Library: Foraging & Food for Health and Wellbeing
Foraging and Food for Health and Wellbeing with Gráinne Kenneally Quirke from Elderberry Farm.
Thursday, 30th January, 7pm, at Enniscorthy Library.
Enniscorthy Library is delighted to welcome Gráinne Kenneally Quirke from Elderberry Farm for a talk on 'Foraging and Food for Health and Wellbeing'.
Gráinne will discuss the immense health benefits, both physical and mental, of foraging and producing your own food from ingredients that are growing wild within a stone’s throw of your own front door.
She will also demonstrate how easy it is to provide yourself with delicious, nutritious foods and tonics to help ward off colds and flu as well as ease the symptoms of many every day ailments that most of us suffer with at some stage during our lives.
Booking essential. Please register for your place below: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/4322879 n
Tackling Ireland’s Food waste
Food waste is a global problem that has environmental, social and economic consequences.
More than one quarter of the food produced globally is wasted. It is a significant contributor to climate change, as food loss and waste contribute to 8-10% of greenhouse gas emissions. Growing, processing and transporting food all use significant amounts of resources such as land, water and energy.
The Irish Government has committed to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030, which is in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Check out: https://www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring—assessment/waste/national-waste-statistics/food/ n
ooted in exford
A Fresh Start in the Garden: January Tips
Happy New Year, everyone! It’s hard to believe we’ve turned the page to another year, and while the garden might look a little lifeless right now, January is actually a fantastic month to get ahead. There’s plenty to be done to set ourselves up for a successful growing season, so let’s dive in.
Brightening Up the Greenhouse
The greenhouse (or polytunnel, if you’ve one) is a brilliant place to start. Winter can leave it looking a bit tired, but a good clean works wonders. Use warm, soapy water to scrub down the glass or polycarbonate panels. This clears away algae and grime, letting in as much precious sunlight as possible. Inside, sweep out debris, give the surfaces a wipe, and sterilise pots and trays to avoid pests and diseases hanging about.
Mark Cooke invites you to grow along with him.
The Slaney News is delighted to have Enniscorthy man, Mark Cooke, on board as a columnist. Mark has a huge passion for growing fruit and veg which he shares on his Instagram platform @rootedinwexford which has over 7,500 followers. Mark describes himself very much as a ‘hobby gardener’ who is not academically trained in horticulture. He started planting with very little knowledge a few years ago and that knowledge has now ‘mushroomed’! Mark loves sharing his passion for growing with our readers.
It might feel a bit nippy while you’re at it, but spending a couple of hours sprucing up your greenhouse now will make it a more pleasant and productive space when seed-sowing season begins. Plus, you’ll feel great knowing it’s organised and ready for action.
Planning the Year’s Growing
January is perfect for putting pen to paper and making plans for your garden or allotment. Think about what you’d like to grow this year – the favourites you can’t do without, and maybe a few new varieties to try. Reflect on last year’s successes and challenges. Did certain crops thrive, or were there some that struggled?
I like to sketch out my beds and plan what will go where. It’s also the time to rotate crops if you’re growing in the same space, helping to keep the soil healthy and reduce the risk of pests. Once you’ve got your list of seeds, check your local garden centres or browse online. I often use seedsireland.ie for their fantastic range.
Forcing Rhubarb: An Early Treat
If you’re lucky enough to have rhubarb growing, now’s the time to give forcing a go. This simple method speeds up its growth, giving you tender, sweet stalks weeks ahead of schedule. Just cover the crowns with an upturned bucket, large pot, or black bin. The darkness encourages growth, and before long, you’ll have a lovely early harvest to use in crumbles, jams, or even savoury dishes.
Imagining the Season Ahead
The quieter pace of January is perfect for reflecting on what you’d like your garden to look like this year. Whether it’s a vegetable patch bursting with produce, a colourful flowerbed, or a mix of both, take a walk around your space and let your imagination wander.
We’ve had our fair share of challenges in recent years, with the weather playing havoc at times, but every new growing season brings hope. A bit of planning and preparation now will set the foundation for a rewarding year ahead.
Gardening Is a Journey
For me, gardening isn’t just about the harvest. It’s about the process – the small wins, the lessons from failures, and the simple joy of seeing life spring from the soil. January may be a quieter time, but it’s just as important as the busier months. So, grab your gloves, enjoy the peace of planning and tidying, and get ready for another year of growth and learning.
Join the Community
If you’d like a bit of inspiration or just a peek at how my own garden is coming along, you can find me on Instagram @rootedinwexford. I share tips, ideas, and the occasional mishap to keep it real. Let’s make 2024 a great year for growing – happy gardening! n
New cookbook for people living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Amy Kelly from Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland has written to us in relation to a new cookbook published by that charity for people with inflammatory bowel disease or IBD (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the most common types).
There are more than 40,000 people living with IBD here in Ireland so this new cookbook should prove a very useful “go-to” resource for them.
Dear Editor
Crohn’s and Colitis Ireland has just published the Crohn’s and Colitis Diet Information & Recipe Book featuring over 60 mouthwatering, gut-friendly recipes.
There are more than 40,000 people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in Ireland. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the most common types, with symptoms including abdominal pain, diarrhoea, fatigue, and weight loss.
We know from a survey conducted earlier this year of 1,400 people with IBD across Ireland that more than two-thirds do not have access to specialist dietary advice and support, which is why this brand-new cookbook is simply a must-have.
While the exact causes of IBD are not fully understood, diet and changes in gut bacteria may influence symptoms and contribute to an overactive immune response and bowel inflammation. This is why maintaining a balanced, healthy diet is important in helping people to better manage the condition.
Recipes featured range from light, easy-to-digest options for days when IBD may be acting up, to meals filled with flavours and textures that everyone can enjoy.
There is also expert advice on managing diet during flare-ups, as well as practical strategies for dining out, travelling, and navigating special occasions, helping people to live their lives fully without the constant stress of what to eat.
Anyone concerned about IBD can call our Support Line on 01 531 2983 (Mon/Wed/Fri, 9.30am-12.30pm).
The cookbook is available to Crohn’s and Colitis Ireland members for €10 and to non-members for €20 – visit www.crohnscolitis.ie/help/shop
Here’s to finding yummy new favourites, rediscovering old comfort foods and bringing the joy back to eating again.
Yours sincerely,
Amy Kelly, Chief Operating Officer, Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland, Carmichael Centre for Voluntary Groups, North Brunswick Street, Dublin 7. n
Lots on at the allotments
December was another busy month at Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA). Gillian O’Neill, Secretary, keeps us updated with all the news and photos...
It was great to see such a turn out for our Open Day despite the terrible weather. It was lovely to meet everyone and show them around our beautiful allotments.
We were delighted to receive an award for the Best Community Area for Pollinators in the Enniscorthy Tidy Towns annual awards and to also win the spot for June in Volunteer Wexford’s Community Calender for 2025. It was great to be a part of both award ceremonies.
We also had a lovely evening in the Alamo, it was organised to recognise the hard work of voluntary groups in the community. Thank you Julie Grant Moran, Wexford Local Development, for organising such a fantastic evening for everyone to enjoy.
We are delighted to have our shed in now over on the Polytunnel site. It is yet another great addition to the allotments. There was a great turnout for our Little Buds Christmas party. Santa and Mrs Claus arrived in style thanks to An Garda Siochana much to the delight of all the kids. Our greenhouse was decorated beautifully for their arrival. The kids all enjoyed their visit with Santa and Mrs Claus followed by some face painting, colouring and cookie decorating, it was a joy to see them all enjoying themselves in the allotments. It truly was a wonderful afternoon for everyone.
A huge thank you goes out to all the volunteers who made the afternoon possible, it could not be done without them. A massive thank you also to Julie Grant Moran, Wexford Local Development, for giving us sponsorship for the event, to Jackser Owens for donating a beautiful Christmas tree for the afternoon, and to Magical Creations by Agnes for the fabulous balloon decorations she so kindly donated. We really appreciate you all.
All treats we had left over were donated to SVP and the Christmas tree was given away to a member of the wider community. n
Below: Little
Now is a good time to sort out your seeds throwing away empty or out-of-date packets and noting down any to buy for the coming season.
Order seed potatoes, onions, shallots and garlic bulbs for planting in spring.
Plan this year's crop rotation to ensure you grow each type of crop in a different bed to previous years.
Regularly inspect stored crops, discarding any showing signs of rot or deterioration.
Above: Award for the Best Community Area for Pollinators in the Enniscorthy Tidy Towns annual awards.
Buds Christmas party at the allotments.
Enniscorthy Community Allotments – part of the Wexford Volunteer Centre Community Calendar 2025.
A lovely evening in the Alamo.
New shed installed at Enniscorthy Community Allotments on the polytunnel site.
The legacy continues following Paolo’s sad passing
Following the recent sad passing of Paolo Fresilli, the renowned proprietor of Via Veneto restaurant in Enniscorthy, his partner Diana and their daughter Asia penned the following words on 18th December 2024...
“Dear Customers, Family, and Friends of Via Veneto,
“As many know, unfortunately, Paolo passed away last week. His funeral was held last Saturday in Italy, in his hometown Esperia. It took us all by surprise and we are still in disbelief. Paolo was a great man, a great boss, a great father, and a great person overall. There are not enough words to describe Paolo. He will be dearly missed by me, Asia, family and staff. He had a heart of gold and, from reading many of your sweet messages, it appears that many of you feel the same way.
“I would like to thank everyone for the messages and kind words in this tough time. We will continue his legacy in the restaurant, although it will be hard without a mentor... I hope that laughter continues to fill the restaurant’s walls. He will always be in our memories, no matter what.”
The kind words mentioned by Diana were everywhere to be seen on social media last month. Some of the messages included:
“Paolo, one in a million.. our thoughts are with you Diana and Asia and extended family and restaurant staff, and may there continue to be much more happy times and great food in your wonderful restaurant in honour of Paolo. May he rest in peace.”
“He was an amazing person and you all worked so well together. He will be missed by so many myself included. l am so glad you are continuing with the legacy you built together.”
“Sincere condolences Diana and Asia, such a sad time for you all but you and your wonderful staff will keep the place alive and keep his legacy alive. There's a beautiful atmosphere every time we go to Via Veneto.” May Paolo rest in peace. n
Impresso’s impressive new premises
Joy and Brendan Doyle outside their impressive new pemises at Slaney Place. New premises but same great food and coffee. Pics: Enjoy Enniscorthy.
Paolo Fresilli, R.I.P.
The Fat Tomato has finally ripened!
After 8 years in the making, Anthony O’Toole’s horticulture project, Fat Tomato, has finally ripened. Pic: Anthony O’Toole. Credit: Kirsty Lyons.
The Grow and Cook Gift Box – The perfect present for garden and kitchen enthusiasts, featuring heritage garden seeds, a selection of cordials, jelly, bottled tomatoes, herbs, and a beautifully illustrated organic tea towel.
picturesque Carrig Rua Hill in north Wexford, has officially launched its online store. The store is brimming with bold, vibrant, old and new Irish flavours. Like the changing seasons, the products will evolve throughout the year, offering a rotating selection of bottles and jars, garden seeds, and colourful fresh produce, all created by founder Anthony O’Toole and his team as they grow, harvest, make, and mature.
Driven by curiosity, biodiversity, and flavour, Anthony draws inspiration from his edible garden, now home to over 500 varieties of heritage fruit, herbs, and vegetables. His product range brings a fresh, flavour-packed twist to everyday meals. Anthony's commitment to biodiversity and quality shines through in the Fat Tomato range, offering something for every palate.
Open all year round, seven days a week, his Edible Garden Honesty Farm Shop is a treasure trove of delicious goodies, including some things that are not available online. These include fresh heritage herbs, fruit and vegetables, rainbow eggs, potted plants, and a selection of bottled and jarred flavours worth visiting to taste. The shop also showcases hand-picked produce and local crafts from like-minded artisans.
Fat Tomato's new collection includes:
Damson Apple Gin Jam – A delicious soft-set jam made with Merryweather damsons, Bramley apples, and Highbank Orchards organic apple gin.
Hedgerow Jelly – A seasonal delight packed with wild berries and fruits like elderberries, sloes, crabapples, and rose hips.
Peach Spice Chutney – A sweet-spiced aged chutney that goes so well in a cheese toastie.
Blackcurrant Butter – A velvety-smooth fruit butter that strikes the perfect balance between savoury-sweet and tangy.
Fig Leaf and Lime Cordial – A refreshing taste of toasted coconut and lime, ideal for evening aperitifs or adding flavour to your morning porridge.
Bloody Mary Salt – A go-too seasoning not just for the rim of a Bloody Mary..
Each product is crafted with natural ingredients, free from artificial preservatives, additives, or colours. Fat Tomato is committed to supporting small farmers and sourcing ingredients sustainably, ensuring every product is as delicious as it is environmentally conscious.
“Since childhood, I dabbled in growing various herbs and vegetables in pots, but nothing like what I’ve embarked on with my edible garden,” says Anthony O’Toole, founder of Fat Tomato. “As a chef, I’m always searching for flavour with integrity, so my edible garden is all about growing for flavour, not yield.”
Fat Tomato products are available exclusively through the online shop, the honesty farm shop, and, later, select small independent stores. For more information, visit www.fattomato.ie
About Anthony O’Toole...
Anthony is an international specialist in travel, food, drink, sustainability, and design. He is a chef, writer, slow-food activist, and avid collector of food, gardening and cookery books. He holds a Master of Science in Culinary Innovation and New Product Development from Technological University, Dublin, and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Degree in Culinary Arts and Related Sciences. Anthony has completed WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) up to Level 3 qualification. He has been accredited numerous academic and industry accolades in his career oincluding best new product that would succeed in the marketplace, a Silver Chef Award, a semi-finalist in the Bolton Trust Entrepreneur Competition, a Guild of Sommeliers in Ireland Award, and a scholarship to study Sherry in Jerez, Spain. He co-founded the Taste Wexford food tourism network and the worldwide #thisisirishfood campaign designed to celebrate Irish food and the people and places who make it. He is a member of The Guild of Sommeliers in Ireland, the International Association of Culinary Professionals, the United Nations Chefs' Manifesto community, and the World Food Travel Association, and is the outgoing Head of the Food Council for Euro-Toques Ireland (2018-2023). He is also a keen supporter of biodiversity and the organic food movement, a member of the Seed Sovereignty UK and Ireland Programme, and a supporter of Irish Seed Savers and Brown Envelope Seeds. www.anthonyotoole.com n
Datapac strikes a chord with €150,000 National Opera House sponsorship
Enniscorthy-based IT services provider Datapac is renewing its sponsorship of the National Opera House in a deal worth €150,000 over the next four years. The sponsorship includes the evolution of the National Opera House’s technology infrastructure, enhancing collaboration, communication, and cybersecurity for the venue.
Datapac, Ireland’s leading technology solutions and services provider, based in Enniscorthy, is pleased to announce the renewal of its sponsorship with the National Opera House. This new deal, valued at €150,000 over the next four years, marks the latest chapter in a decades-spanning partnership that has supported the venue in delivering world-class performances and events.
As the official ICT sponsor to the National Opera House, Datapac’s proactive support enables the National Opera House to roll out its extensive programme of events to citizens and international visitors annually. This includes the Wexford Festival Opera, which welcomes patrons from over 20 countries each year.
The deal advances the National Opera House’s technology strategy to boost collaboration, communication, cybersecurity, and connectivity for the venue. In turn, Datapac’s solution empowers employees to continue to deliver a toptier variety of performances for patrons
across opera, theatre, dance, and music.
With Datapac’s solution in place, the National Opera House is becoming a more digitally managed organisation, which is helping it to meet its sustainability goals as part of its climate action plan. In addition, the technology supports the venue in delivering its Education and Community Programme which aims to engage local schools and the wider community with the arts.
Established in 2008, the venue is Ireland’s only custom-built opera house and was designated as Ireland’s ‘National Opera House’ by the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht 10 years ago. An estimated two million people have passed through its doors to date.
Randall Shannon, Executive Director, Wexford Festival Opera, said: “Every aspect of the work we do is supported by the Datapac team. Datapac’s proactive support gives us the confidence to innovate and expand, and this evol-
ution of our strategy will ensure that we can provide an enhanced service for our valued patrons. As an important economic generator for the region, we greatly appreciate Datapac’s commitment to our sustainable future. We look forward to continuing to work with the team over the next number of years.”
Karen O’Connor, General Manager, Datapac, said: “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with the National Opera House and build on our valued relationship. We will work closely with the team to guide the technology strategy, ensuring that, as a world-class venue, it aligns with international best practices. In a digital landscape that’s ever-changing, we ensure that the venue can seamlessly deliver its yearround programme of events and the highly anticipated Wexford Festival Opera. All the world’s a stage, and we are delighted to support the National Opera House which makes an invaluable contribution to arts, culture, and the economy in Wexford and across the South East.” n
L-R: Karen O’Connor, General Manager, Datapac, and Randall Shannon, Executive Director, Wexford Festival Opera.
ENNISCORTHY BUSINESS SEEKS PLANNING PERMISSION FOR LARGE NEW HEADQUARTERS
Enniscorthy’s long established wholesalers H. Murphy & Co (Enniscorthy) Ltd is seeking planning permission for a state-of-the-art cash and carry at Kilcannon on the Old Dublin Road. The site involved is located behind the Murphy Precast Concrete premises, and is currently in agricultural use.
If granted permission, the building would include warehouse space, offices, rear service yard, access road, cycle lane, and footpath. Parking will consist of 67 spaces including three dedicated disabled-parking spaces, two dedicated van-loading and unloading spaces, and seven dual electric car-charging bays.
The planning application says, ‘The building design concept for the building is to create a dynamic commercial building expressed with several coloured layers to reduce the scale of the building and create interesting architectural forms. The diagonal colour change to the elevational treatment provides a dy-
namic architectural feature that brings energy and movement to the building.’ It concludes that the ‘unique architectural design’ will ‘positively add to the built environment along the Old Dublin Road.’
The applicant company, which began trading in 1929, currently employs over 150 people at various wholesale and retail locations in the region. But in order to expand and create additional local employment, the company says it requires this new modern building which will accommodate 37 full-time staff – 14 in the warehouse, and 17 in administration, sales, and management, and 6 full-time drivers.
The company believes the move from its existing central location in Enniscorthy will have a positive impact on the town in the context of the new Town Centre First Plan. And it says the move will be beneficial in removing heavy good vehicles from the town. n
Marking 10 years of LEO
Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Wexford celebrated its 10th anniversary on December 9th at Wexford County Council marking a decade of growth, innovation, and unwavering support for the local business community. The vibrant event showcased some of the best of local talent and enterprise in County Wexford.
The celebration featured a festive market and craft fair, bringing together products from client companies, many of whom are members of the Wexford Food Producers Network, local craft producers and students participating on the Student Enterprise Programme. The Wexford Presentation Choir opened the event with a beautiful performance of carols, setting the festive tone for the day. Attendees were treated to delicious food from Gather & Gaze, a stunning cake from Flory’s Bakery, and cupcakes from Sweetdreams. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as the business community of Wexford came together. Past clients of LEO and new businesses were invited to join in the celebration contributing to the
event’s success. The County Wexford Chamber also promoted their Shop Local Gift Cards, and the RNLI Wexford was the event's chosen charity. The RNLI plays a vital role in providing life-saving rescue services along Ireland's coast, with the Wexford crew instrumental in safeguarding the local community. Attendees were encouraged to support the RNLI through donations and awareness, highlighting the organisation's critical work. Local Enterprise Office Wexford was proud to partner with such an important local charity, further strengthening the ties between businesses and the community.
Over the past decade, LEO Wexford has played an instrumental role in fostering entrepreneurship and supporting local businesses. The office has helped create 2,895 new jobs across various sectors, boosting the local economy. Through its programmes, including Local Enterprise Week, National Enterprise Awards, National Women’s Enterprise Day, and youthfocused initiatives like Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur and the Student Enterprise Programme, LEO Wexford has
An event to celebrate ten years of the Local Enterprise Office Wexford was held in County Hall, Wexford, on 9th December 2024. Highlights included a Christmas market & craft fair, a student micro-business showcase, inspiring client success stories, carol singing by Wexford Presentation Choir, and festive refreshments by Gather & Gaze. RNLI was the chosen charity to benefit from the event.
Pics: Mary Browne
empowered entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. More than 12,540 students from across County Wexford have participated in the Student Enterprise Programme, gaining practical experience in running their own businesses.
LEO Wexford has provided critical financial support to local businesses, administering over €6.58 million in grant aid to 234 manufacturing and internationally traded service companies. Additionally, 18 businesses have been transferred to Enterprise Ireland for further export support. LEO Wexford’s Trading Online Voucher Scheme has helped 990 local businesses secure €2.11 million to develop new online revenue streams, a vital shift accelerated by the covid pandemic.
The office has also played a crucial role in ensuring access to finance for local businesses, assisting 119 companies in securing €2.13 million in loan finance from Microfinance Ireland. Over 13,500 entrepreneurs have benefited from LEO Wexford’s comprehensive training programmes, helping them build the skills necessary to
Above L-R: Deborah Cogley Art. Robert O’Connor Woodturning Studio. Kata C. Rigo and Adam Czillaho, Mavis Nest. Pics: Mary Browne.
succeed in today’s competitive business environment.
Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise at LEO Wexford, said, “This celebration is a moment to reflect on the incredible achievements of our local businesses and the LEO team. We look forward to the next decade and remain committed to supporting innovation, fostering growth, and providing the tools and resources our businesses need to thrive.” n
Top left: Brian Kehoe (CEO of Wexford Local Development), and John O’Connor (CEO Enniscorthy Enterprise and Technology Centre, and the Hatch Lab, Gorey). Top right: Eddie Taaffe (CEO, Wexford Co. Council), Elizabeth Hore (Director of Services, Wexford Co. Council), Pip Breen (Cathaoirleach, Wexford Co. Council), Breege Cosgrave (Head of Enterprise & Economic Development, Wexford Co. Council), Malcolm Byrne TD. Above left: Jack and Kevin N’Guinan, Wexford Sea Salt. Above right: Chosen Charity – RNLI. Below left: Dawn Doran and Regina Angulin of Holos Skincare. Below right: Wexford Presentation Choir under the direction of Lorna Mahon. Pics: Mary Browne.
Brian Fives (Enterprise Ireland), Dan Barry (Enterprise Ireland), Malcolm Byrne TD.
Katelyn Browne Kehoe from Coláiste Bríde, Enniscorthy. Below right: Amia Sherlock, Eva Sinnott and Leah
Enniscorthy. Bottom left: Keelin and Emily Scallan in front, Erin Ryan and Hannah Roche behind, from Loreto
Bottom
Top left: Grainne Walsh from Waterford with Kata of Mavis Nest. Top right: Presentation Secondary School Choir. Above left: David and Owen Mullins, Zanna Cookhouse. Above right: Eddie Taaffe (CEO, Wexford Co. Council), Elizabeth Hore (Director of Services, Wexford Co. Council), Pip Breen (Cathaoirleach, Wexford Co. Council), Bernie Flood (Local Enterprise Office – LEO Wexford), Breege Cosgrave (Head of Enterprise & Economic Development, Wexford Co. Council), Jill Kelleher (LEO), Angie Malone (LEO), Annette Rowsome (LEO), Caroline McCrea (LEO),
Below left: Maxim Costic of Earth Food. Below centre:
O'Brien Miller from Coláiste Bríde,
School, Wexford.
right: Maire Mernagh from All About Nectar. Pics: Mary Browne.
Top left: Molly Martin, Caoimhe Moore, Ava Dobbs Doyle and Anna Nolan from Coláiste Bríde, Enniscorthy. Top right: Emily McCabe, Leah Finn, Mia Cleere and Valeriia Khaznaforova from Ramsgrange Community School. Above left: Aoife Kehoe, Ruth Redmond and Isabel Ryan from Loreto School, Wexford. Above centre: Angelica Szynanska, Laura Gasparlin and Rochelle Noblezia from Gorey Educate Together. Above right: Sarah Cummins from Ramsgrange Community School. Below left: Lorna Rochford from Peas & Love. Below centre: Nina Shelton and Gillian White of Sully & Juno. Below right: Alice Kelly Millinery. Bottom left: Flory Enache of Flory Bakery. Bottom centre: Ann Wildes of Tara Hill Honey. Bottom right: Mary O’Hanlon of Tasty Palour. Pics: Mary Browne.
Enniscorthy store is Ireland’s best!
Smyth’s Homevalue in Enniscorthy has been named as “Best Paint Store in Leinster” and “Best Paint Store in Ireland” at the United in Excellence Awards 2024. Congrats to Dermot, Betty, Jack and all the team there.
Start Your Own Business
Local Enterprise Office Wexford
‘Start Your Own Business’ Course aimed at anyone who is thinking of starting their own business or has recently started a business.
Venue: Online, twice weekly.
Start Date: 20/01/2025.
End Date: 17/02/25.
Time:18:30 - 21:30.
Cost: €25.
The objective of Start Your Own Business programme is to assist participants in assessing the viability of business ideas and in understanding the essential elements required to start-up and run their own business.
1. Self-Assessment - To introduce participants to the concept of entrepreneurship and what it means to be a business owner. The downs and ups and how to deal with both.
2. Legal Issues for Start-up businesses - To show participants the formal vehicles to use to conduct business, par-
Wexford Businesses to Shine at Showcase 2025
Five Wexford businesses will exhibit at Showcase 2025 in the Local Enterprise Office Showcase, taking place at the RDS, Dublin, from January 19th - 21st. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Showcase, Ireland’s leading creative expo, bringing together businesses and thousands of buyers from around the world.
It’s a unique opportunity for these Wexford clients of Local Enterprise Office Wexford to grow their brands, secure new orders, and make valuable industry connections on this prestigious stage.
Holos - Handmade luxurious skincare.
Eoin O’Connor - Artist.
Deborah Cogley - Art.
Ingadi - Home of the Happy Pot. WeirdWatercolours - Greeting cards and associated stationery.
Wishing the above well as they represent Wexford at this prestigious event.
ticularly the new companies acts and legislation; the topic also introduces the self-assessment taxation system and the responsibilities to the revenue of the self- employed. The topic also deals with protecting the business idea online.
3. Market and Market research - To give a solid professional grounding in the principles of marketing leading up to developing a marketing plan.
4. Sales and networking - To show that sales are core to all businesses, so that participants prepare their sales pitches and networking pitches for immediate use even if the business has not started.
5. Administration and book-keepingTo create an understanding in the participants of the importance of good financial management which ranges from basic bookkeeping to creation of internal controls and revenue commissioner ready accounts, as well as how, why and when to register for appropriate taxes.
6. Finance and financial managementTo inform participants of the routes to finance available in current times and to establish the methods of costing and other basic tools to ensure profitability.
7. Business Planning - To demonstrate to participants the importance of comprehensive planning for their prospective business.
8. Technology in modern businessThis topic discusses the remarkable aids to small businesses that have evolved in recent times, the topic mentions all the new social media platforms, as well as financial technology that has emerged.
Tutor: Cosmo Mellon, TalentPool.
Full course details and booking on: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/Start-Your-Own-Business-20-01-2 0251.html n
Restricted dog breeds in Ireland
On 1 October 2024, a ban on XL Bully dogs began in Ireland. This is the only breed of dog that is currently banned in Ireland. For full details of the ban see: https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2024/si/491/made/en/print
The Department of Rural and Community Development has a useful FAQ document (pdf) on the new XL Bully dog regulations. https://www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/305534/ 87534248-f5c4-4d2a-8d90-54e7465aacf6.pdf#page=null
Certain types or breeds of dog are classed as restricted breeds. There are additional rules you must follow if you have a restricted breed of dog. This applies to the following types of dog, as well as strains or cross-breeds of these breeds:
American pit bull terrier
English bull terrier
Staffordshire bull terrier
Bull mastiff
Dobermann pinscher
German shepherd (Alsatian)
Rhodesian ridgeback
Rottweiler
Japanese akita
Japanese tosa
Bandog
In Ireland restricted dogs (or strains and crosses of them) must be:
Kept on a short strong lead (under 2 metres)
With someone over the age of 16, who is able to control them
South East Animal Rescue
South East Animal Rescue rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes animals in the South East of Ireland. Their fundraising shop at 27 Court St, Enniscorthy, always has lots of bargains available.
Email: southeastanimalrescue@gmail.com Keep up to date on their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064583773930 n
Muzzled when in a public place
Wearing a collar with the name and address of their owner, at all times
The rules on muzzling and leashing do not apply to dogs used by the:
Gardaí
Dublin Harbour Police
State Airport Police
Rescue teams in rescue operations
The rules on muzzling do not apply to guide dogs for the blind. n
Happy New Year to all our readers and clients, let’s hope it’s a magical one for all of us.
It’s a brand new year and yep we're all full of good intentions still.... maybe after stumbling already but that's ok , what’s most important is we get back up again and start afresh. They say a toddler falls over 2,000 times before they finally learn to walk.... hey that's perseverance for you. So whether it’s to quit smoking, lose a few pounds, gain a few pounds, get fit, go dancing whatever... it’s all about showing up, giving it a go, and keep going even if there are notable failures.
A friend sent me a link to an American motivational speaker who is big into meditation and the message I got from him was, 'Be your authentic self'.... Well that is going to be something different for everyone and that's the beauty of life. My father used to say, 'One man’s drink is another man’s poison' and because we're all different it’s up to each one of us to bring our best game to each facet of our lives.... our work life, our home life, our relationships, and how we treat and nurture ourselves.
I saw a card once and its title was, 'Be the person your dog thinks you are'.... and that’s it in a nutshell.... they see the best in us every day. They are happy to see us every time we walk in though the door, and it’s genuine happiness they abound and embrace us with. They see the magic inside us even when we are struggling
with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
and having a tough time, they see past all of it to our authentic selves.
One of the first books I read on this journey was a book called The Mutant Messenger Down Under by Marlo Morgan and I picked it up last night and opened it up on a chapter titled Totems.... it’s a book about Aboriginal wisdom and this chapter was about animals. The eagle represents looking at things from a higher perspective rather than just seeing the obstacles in front of us. A kangaroo never takes a step backwards, a snake sheds its skin to grow and develop. They make the point that our view as a 7-year-old is very different to 37, changed again by 47.... and this is perfect because we learn and see things differently as we move through life.
There are many ways to learn, from books, each other, from experience, and Nature. When we stop and see the magic of Nature, its rhythms synergy, seemingly chaos by times only for everything to regroup and rebuild. A classic example is a forest fire, what looks like mass destruction, sears and hatches new dormant seeds and begins a whole new cycle of life.
Amid our busy, busy lives taking a minute a few times a day to look with wonder at the magic of Nature, of the innate intelligence of our animals and the widsom they impart when we stop to listen.... and opening up to our authentic selves.
That's my new year’s resolution. 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):
2024 has been the year of the hybrid for MG. The brand has launched three this year – the MG3 Hybrid supermini, the MG HS plug-in hybrid and now the MG ZS Hybrid.
The ZS is a compact SUV that was part of MG's relaunch a few years ago and is the brand's second bestselling model in Ireland after the MG4. It started life as an electric SUV but now MG has introduced a brand new ZS Hybrid in keeping with demand for hybrid vehicles
Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the founder and editor of the online automotive magazine Changing Lanes and a jury member for Irish Car of the Year. Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at www.changinglanes.ie
CAROLINE GETS MOTORING MG ZS HYBRID
It goes on sale priced from €29,995 undercutting key rivals like the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid, Hyundai Kona Hybrid and even the new Dacia Duster Hybrid.
The ZS is a substantial car in the metal and is now a bit longer, wider and taller than before. It has chunky SUV looks and the new face of the brand. LED lights come as standard and it looks particularly brilliant in blue metallic paint. There are a few trim levels on offer but
the mid-range Excite adds more desirable 17-inch alloy wheels.
The ZS Hybrid gets a newly designed interior. There are lots of soft touch materials and stylish details like the large gear selector and the silver finish around the rectangular air vents. Exclusive models come with black leather style upholstery, which really gives it a classy finish. The seats are also heated and the driver's seat has power adjustment. So altogether it stands up well
MG ZS HYBRID
among its rivals when it comes to the cabin finish.
There's a full digital driver display and large touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. You can connect it via a USB-A port, though there is also a USB-C. The touchscreen has similar graphics to the larger MG HS and a row of shortcut buttons underneath to useful functions like demisting the rear window or turning on or off the ventilation system. You can also set shortcuts to adjust the climate control or other functions via buttons on the steering wheel.
need to be plugged in and charged to get the best from it.
It comes well-equipped from entry with a parking camera, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and keyless entry.
The ZS Hybrid is certainly at the upper end of its segment for interior space. It doesn't feel small at all inside. There's loads of legroom in the back and handy features like pockets in the back of the front seats, generous door bins, USB port and Isofix on the two outer seats.
The boot is also generously sized for a small SUV at 443 litres. That's larger than the Toyota Yaris Cross and Nissan Juke Hybrid but a little way off the Dacia Duster Hybrid.
The new ZS Hybrid uses the same hybrid system as the MG3 supermini. It's based around a 1.5-litre petrol engine, small battery and electric motor. It's a standard hybrid so it doesn't
It stands out for how powerful and lively it feels from behind the wheel. There's a whopping 196hp being fed to the front wheels and if you do accelerate with gusto coming out of a junction for instance, there is sometimes wheel spin. 0-100 is just 8.7 seconds. There are drive modes to adjust the drive including sport, normal and eco.
But the whole point of a hybrid is efficiency. The ZS can dip into EV driving to
boost efficiency however in my experience it wasn't as fuel efficient as the likes of a Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid. My average fuel consumption was 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres, which is okay but I couldn't replicate MG's quoted 5.1 litres.
There is regenerative braking and you can toggle between three levels of that to return energy to the battery.
In its favour the ZS Hybrid feels fluid and natural to drive. It never gets too noisy with no whining from the engine when you put your foot down. It's comfortable to drive on the motorway, though it can feel a little bumpier in town driving over imperfections in the road surface. The steering is light, which makes parking and town driving very easy but it's not exactly a driver's car like a Ford Puma.
The MG Pilot safety and driver assistance features come as standard including adaptive cruise control, active emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot detection, forward collision warning, and traffic jam assist.
Altogether, the MG ZS Hybrid is a great addition to the MG range offering a powerful hybrid option in the range. It's very stylish and spacious inside and is still one of the best value small SUVs on sale. n
Wexford Car Centre is Nissan’s Aftersales Dealer of the Year
Wexford Car Centre in Wexford town had great cause for celebration last month when it was named as the Nissan Aftersales Dealer of the Year. The dealership won the coveted title after scoring top marks in a series of audits to assess how it has created a customer centric culture. The audits also examined how it has implemented best practices to improve overall performance and to enhance the customer experience.
It saw off tough competition from 34 other Nissan dealers around the country to claim the award, scoring highly for the efforts it makes to provide customers with quick turnaround times for routine service, maintenance and warranty repairs.
“Nissan is delighted by the high standard of customer care that has been achieved by all of our dealers nationwide. Wexford Car Centre was a deserving winner of the Nissan Aftersales Dealer of the Year award. It has taken numerous steps to provide customers with exemplary aftersales care, setting the benchmark for others to follow,’ said Seamus Morgan, Managing Director of Nissan Ireland.
“We are delighted to be named as Nissan
Aftersales Dealership of the Year. Our success would not be possible without the loyal support of our customers in Wexford. We are proud to be part of the local community and to maintain a high standard of customer care,” said Diarmaid Boland, Dealer Principal at Wexford Car Centre.
“Our success is also down to the brilliant team of people working at Wexford Car Centre. Their hard work, commitment and dedication allows us to maintain the highest possible standards for our customers. We are exceptionally proud of what we have achieved together, and we look forward to building on our success,” he added. n
NATIONAL VEHICLE SALES 2024 – HIGHLIGHTS...
The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) official new vehicle registration statistics for 2024:
Total new car registrations for 2024, finished at 121,195, a slight decrease of 1% compared to 2023 (122,400).
New Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) registrations in 2024 saw an increase of 7% (30,786) compared to 2023 (28,854). New Heavy Commercial Vehicle registrations (HGV) increased by 8% (2,865) in comparison to 2023 (2,655).
Imported Used Cars saw 61,583 registrations in 2024, an increase of 21.4% on 2023 (50,716). 17,459 new electric cars were registered in 2024, a decrease of 23.6% from the 22,852 registrations seen in 2023.
Market share for 2024 saw Petrol account for 30.31%, Diesel 22.80%, Hybrid 20.92%, Electric 14.41%, and Plug-In Hybrid 10.02%. Petrol remains the most popular engine type for 2024, while Electric, Hybrid, and Plug-in Hybrid account for over 45% of the market.
Automatic transmissions now account for 66.09% of the market share, while manual transmissions have declined to 33.80%.
The hatchback continues to remain Ireland’s top-selling car body type of 2024. While grey has retained the top-selling colour title for the ninth year running. n
Wexford Car Centre has been named as Nissan Aftersales Dealer of the Year. Pictured at the awards ceremony L-R: David McGivern, Business Manager, Nissan Ireland; Thomas MacDonald, Sales Manager, Wexford Car Centre; and Seamus Morgan, Managing Director of Nissan Ireland.
Wexford schools invited to compete for ‘Ireland’s Fittest’ title
A call has gone out to schools in Wexford, and elsewhere across the country, from one of Ireland’s bestknown Olympians, sprinter David Gillick who has joined forces with Fyffes once again in a quest to find ‘Ireland’s Fittest School 2025’.
Aimed at promoting the importance of exercise, fitness and healthy eating amongst young people, a central feature of the programme will be a series of exercise routines – recorded by Gillick, alongside Irish fitness trainer, Sharon Flanagan – which competing schools can adopt as part of their PE curriculum and against which performance will be measured and tracked online.
Running for 10 weeks from January 20th, the upcoming competition will see a new element introduced in which the top four schools from each province will compete head-to-head across four live regional qualifier events in April. The top school from Connacht, Leinster, Munster and Ulster will then
progress to May’s grand final at which the prize package will include €8,000 worth of sports equipment.
Previous ‘Ireland’s Fittest School’ winners were Donegal’s Scoil Na Croise Naofa, Dunfanaghy (2022);
Meath’s Gilson National School, Oldcastle (2023) and Waterford’s Touraneena National School (2024).
School registrations open January 6th and further details can be found online at www.fyffesfittestschool.ie n
Pickle Ball now in Enniscorthy
Curious about the fastest-growing sport in Ireland? Pickleball is a racket or paddle sport in which two players (singles) or four players (doubles) use a smooth-faced paddle to hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball over a 34inch-high (0.86 m) net until one side is unable to return the ball or commits a rule infraction.
Enniscorthy Astro Centre is the perfect place to experience the fun and energy of Pickleball.
Astro Active Centre, Bellefield, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 923 6678. Email: astroactive@reachability.ie n
Maria Nolan with GAA President Jarlath Burns and new County Chairman John Kenny on New Year’s Day at St. Martin’s Piercestown for Wexford selection against Glen Fuels team of the year.
17th Annual Michael Foley Pudding Run
Words & Pics by Maria Nolan
Once again the faithful gathered at McCauley Park Bellefield for the 17th annual Pudding Run on St. Stephen’s Day in memory of the late Michael Foley.
Now in its 17th year, the Pudding Run has the wonderful attraction of giving people a reason to get up, get out, and get going after a laid back, food-filled Christmas Day, and this year was no exception with a large attendance of runners, walkers, dog walkers and pram pushers at the Rapparees-Starlights GAA Complex where it all kicked off at 11am.
The brainchild of a group of Michael’s friends, the annual Pudding Run steered by the loyal, hardworking, and dynamic duo Phil and Jim Kearney, has stood the test of time and is a marvellous tribute to the memory of the late Michael and to all his family and friends who turn out year after year not just to walk or run but to remember and reminisce and renew old friendships and acquaintances at this special Christmas time.
The proceeds from the Pudding Run go towards the Michael Foley Bursary administered through Enniscorthy CBS assisting two students each year, who may not have been able to afford to otherwise, to pursue third level education.
Many of the students helped over the years have attained degrees in a variety of fields and are now making their own generous contribution to the Bursary.
over €1,500 with donations
A plethora of prizes were handed out for runners, walkers, dogs and babies, and the committee would like to say a most sincere thank you to all who supported and to all who donated bottles, chocolates, biscuits and vouchers for the event.
A special mention for Majella Murphy and Michelle Foley who provided the refreshments afterwards and to Rapparees-Starlights GAA for the continued use of their premises.
A heartwarming, uplifting, and even spiritual occasion that brings people together at this most festive time of the year and long may it continue. n
This year the Pudding Run raised
continuing to come in.
Above left: Rapparees/Starlights runners. Above right: Dec and Helen Wildes and Jacqui Murphy.
The Fenlon family.
A lineup of young runners.
Above: Jim Nolan and Brendan Brooks.
Right: Jacqui Murphy, Terri Foley, Mary and Cormac Jevins.
L-R: Nicola and Ella Murphy. Finn and Ger McVeigh. Terri Foley and Shay Walsh. Sophia Foley and Odhran Murphy
Left: Rapparees/Starlights runners. Above: Maria Nolan and Mary Walsh. Below: Ready to start.
CREATED IN EIRE’S €1,000 FOR WAILING WOMEN WORLDWIDE
The second edition of “Eire Season”, a new boxing promotion founded by Enniscorthy’s Mick Abidoye Jnr, took place on December 21st at Bluebell FC in Dublin and was a resounding success, raising €1,000 for Wailing Women Worldwide (WWW), a global prayer and intercession movement dedicated to transforming nations through empowerment and community-building initiatives.
Congrats to all the boxers who won their bouts on the night especially to the Wexford-based fighters for their outstanding performances: Jamie Kealy (Ballymurn), Ellisa O’Brien (Enniscorthy Boxing Club), Joe Akinyemi (Enniscorthy Boxing Club), Billy Harmon (Rosslare Strand), and former European-ranked WBA fighter Raul Flow, who also claimed “Fight of the Night.”
Mick says, “A special mention goes to Fernando Mersam (Prince FA), a former boxer and musician, who performed on the night and participated in the first event in March, for his invaluable assistance, and a huge thank you to the event sponsors, including The Stream Team, Five Palm Entertainment, and Fearmaxo. And also to Conor Kelly and seniorman and VGS Media for the photos taken on the day.”
Created in Eire, through its new boxing promotion Eire Season, continues to deliver impactful events, blending sports and philanthropy to benefit the community. n
Staking our claim to the Enniscorthy Christmas Carol
Words and pics by Maria Nolan
Huge congratulations to traditional singer/songwriter Aileen Lambert who finally pulled the sceachs away from the roots of the famous Enniscorthy Christmas Carol exposing its known origins in a beautifully executed documentary titled Enniscorthy’s Carol shown at Enniscorthy Library recently.
The large library audience listened enthralled as the passionate Aileen expertly peeled back the layers to reveal the mystery behind this magical carol unearthed in 1912 by Cathedral organist William Henry Grattan Flood and Fr. Pat Cummins, Administrator of St. Aidan’s, who drove Dr. Grattan Flood to a house close to Cummins Cross near Oylegate to hear the carol sung.
Fr. Cummins had heard the carol sung by his mother Bess Murphy who had heard it from her mother Elizabeth Reck of Crory, which would place it circa 1800 and beyond.
Aileen explained that similar verses had been found in England dating back to the 1700s but sung to a completely different air.
William Henry Grattan Flood is responsible for, shall we say, tweaking the arrangement of this much loved, unusual, traditional Irish air to create the agelessly beautiful carol we know today.
Aileen thanked all who appeared in the documentary especially local historian and journalist Dan Walsh, Cathedral organist Adrian Doyle, the Cathedral Choir, Sean and Ann Quirke who used to live in Cummins house, Margaret Franklin, granddaughter of William Henry Grattan Flood, and Noirin Cummins, descendant of Fr. Pat Cummins, along with children from the Bunscoil Loreto, Gorey, and the manager and staff of Enniscorthy Library for hosting the event.
Full credit to Aileen Lambert for putting her mark on this carol and doing her bit to establish its Enniscorthy origins and to Deryn O’Callaghan and Creative Places for providing the funding for this most worthwhile project – I mean after all how many towns in Ireland or even indeed the world can claim to have their own Christmas carol – another first for Enniscorthy and something for us to nurture and cherish going forward. n
Top photo: Aileen with descendants of Fr. Pat Cummins and Dr William Henry Grattan Flood. Above left: Aileen and organist Adrian Doyle. Above centre: Dan Walsh, Aileen and Ann Quirke. Above right: Aileen and Trish Keenan of Enniscorthy Library.
Uí Cinsealaigh Historical Society
Annual Christmas Dinner
Riverside Park Hotel, 10th December, 2024
Above left: Mary Doyle and Liam Dunbar. Above right: Pat Hackett and Gregg Walsh.
Left: Willie French, John Garahy and Mark Minihan. Above: Aidan and Roseleen Quirke.
Below left: Joe and John Butler. Below right: Jim Browne and Pat Brennan.
Above left: Willie French. Above right: Enjoying the event. Left: Brian Cleary. Below left: Mark Minihan. Bottom left: Pat Hackett.
“I see trees of green...”
On 13th December 2024, St. Patrick’s School in Enniscorthy was the venue for the planting of 2,500 native trees as part of the ‘100 Million Trees Project’.
The 100 Million Trees Project was developed by brothers Richard and David Mulcahy in 2023, with sister Tina coming on board in 2024. The project aims to see the planting of 100 million native Irish trees across the island of Ireland over the next decade, as a community-driven initiative.
Present at the planting in December were David Mulcahy, school Principal Lee Rodgers, Cllr John O’Rourke, Phil and Gia from Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, along with representatives from Forestry Services who are undertaking the physical planting, and several local AIB staff including Manager MJ Furlong – AIB is one of the main sponsors of the programme.
Nationally, the project planted 200,000 native trees last year, consisting of 15 species, and this year the figure is likely to be 500,000, thanks to sponsorship from AIB and Uniphar.
The project densely plants between 500 and 2,500 native Irish trees at a time across small areas of land using ‘the Miyawaki method’. Named after Japanese Botanist, Professor Akira Miya- waki, who developed the technique in the 1970s as a means to restore degraded land, the Miyawaki Method of planting trees has been successful in creating over 1,700 forests worldwide.
By planting trees so close together, they grow 10 times faster, 30 times denser, create an area 100 times more biodiverse and most importantly create a very rapid carbon sink. This inexpensive approach requires significantly smaller planting areas and can be carried out on unused or fallow land across Ireland.
For further information on the 100 Million Trees Project, check out the website here: www.100milliontreeproject.ie Or email the project at: info@100milliontreeproject.ie n
Above: David Mulcahy with Gearóid Kennedy of Forestry Services. Below: Stef Doyle and Cally O’Leary of AIB, Enniscorthy.
Slaney environment
Representatives from Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, Gia
Top right:
The AIB contingent, L-R: Cally O’Leary, Stef Doyle, Amy Dunne, Paula Dempsey, Nell Lawless, and Manager MJ Furlong.
Left:
Lending a helping hand at the planting was school pupil Alex.
Right:
Pupil Ethan assisting Catriona Taylor of the 100 Million Trees Project.
Below left:
Inspecting the good work, pupil Ky Busher and Cllr John O’Rourke making sure Catriona Taylor is doing it all correctly.
Below right: David Mulcahy, joint founder of The 100 Million Trees Project with Gary O’Toole.
Top left:
O’Grady and Phil Miller.
100 Million Trees project in Camolin
Irish Country Meats in Camolin recently planted a mini-forest of 2,500 native Irish trees on its site, with a selection of 14 different species.
This was part of the 100 Million Trees Project https://100milliontreesproject.ie/, a global effort to plant 100 million trees for climate action and biodiversity.
The team at Irish Country Meats embraced a chilly yet stunning morning last November to make a big impact on its environment.
Led by Maedbh Frawley, the Sustainability, Environmental and Animal Welfare Officer, and General Manager James Byrne, staff rotated throughout the day to take part, with everyone contributing to this exciting project.
Volunteers worked at planting all day and enjoyed the opportunity to take part in
this biodiversity activity. The initiative, known as ‘Plant a Tree, Make a Memory’ was also designed to remember loved ones and staff attached name tags to trees that were planted, remembering the past as this mini-forest was created for future generations.
As part of ABP Food Group, the company has established corporate sustainability objectives on Climate Change and Biodiversity and has set ambitious targets to
These six ‘R’s can save our planet!
Refuse single use plastics (bags, cups, etc)
Rethink your choices
Reuse as much as possible
Repair before you replace
Recycle all packaging and plastic bottles
Rot all your organic stuff and put it back into the soil n
develop and restore areas that promote biodiversity.
Irish Country Meats chose the location of this mini-forest, strategically placing it beside their existing biodiversity garden, which was created in recent years to enhance the local ecosystem. The location was chosen to allow for a biodiversity corridor for animals and birds to travel safely, providing shelter and food.
As Origin Green Gold Members, the company is heavily invested in the environment and biodiversity and is continuously partaking in various projects to give back to nature.
Well done to all the team at Irish Country Meats Camolin for their contribution to this great national project.
https://irishcountrymeats.com/ https://100milliontreesproject.ie n
Artwork project
The Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group has embarked on an exciting community artwork project with thanks to Creative Places Enniscorthy and Enniscorthy Municipal District. The idea is to turn the various ugly-looking utility boxes around the town into interesting works of art.
The first such box has now been completed near the AIB bank at Slaney Place thanks to magnificent artwork from the talented local man Conor Gibson. Up next is the ESB substation at Fair Green so keep your eyes peeled for that. n
No more excuses!
With the support of the Environment Department of Wexford County Council, Mutt Mitt bag dispensers and bins (see photo) have been installed in Ferns village and also at several locations around Enniscorthy. These dispensers contain easy to use biodegradable bags to dispose of your dog’s poo. So no excuses! Bag it and bin it!! n
Do your town a favour
Do you have a few hours to spare a month? Find yourself bored mid week evenings or at the weekend? Want to make your town a better place? Please contact Enniscorthy Tidy Towns: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown Email: enniscorthytt@gmail.com n
Please note...
To log a report regarding any dumping, street litter, road oil spills and potholes,ring Wexford Council on (053) 919 6000 or email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
You will receive a log number to refer to if you need to call again.
You can also ask to register for group or individual cleanups of your environment.
Did you know?
Did you know that people use a plastic bottle for an average of 11 minutes? Meanwhile it takes up to 450 years to decompose!
Reusable bottles are becoming more and more popular and thankfully there are now a number of locations on the streets of Enniscorthy where you can fill them with water for free. So if you want to do one thing today for nature, avoid using disposable plastic bottles. n
The power of planting!
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns rounded off its Spring bulbs initiative in December with thanks to Enniscorthy Community Alliance. Over 4,000 bulbs were planted to boost biodiversity, add wonderful colour throughout town, as well as helping insects. Thanks to all community groups, schools and other organisations that participated with the Alliance and to John Murphy (Enniscorthy Community Alliance) for leading this project. n
Energy supports & resources
There are a number of government supports and resources available to help businesses mitigate the impact of energy price rises and become more energy efficient. Check out the website: https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/supports-forsmes/energy-supports/ n
Need to upgrade your cold house?
Enniscorthy Credit Union has a Green Loan designed to help you do just that – with one of its lowest rates for a loan 5.25% (5.4% APR). So save money, save energy and save the environment with Enniscorthy Credit Union!
Talk to them today or apply online. Tel: 053 9233835 Email: loans@enniscorthycu.ie n
Please keep in mind Wexford County Council's Community Grant & Funding webpage when looking to source details of community grant and funding schemes that may be relevant to climate action measures.
This webpage is a valuable source of information detailing what schemes are currently available, terms and conditions etc., and very importantly.....deadlines!
To access the webpage, please click here: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/community-grants-andfunding n
