Slaney News
ServiNg Co. wexford for the laSt 10 yearS
Issue 130 - March 2021
Dr Stephen Bowe as he locks his GP practice in Selskar Court for the last time. Click here to view story
Closing the door on a distinguished medical career
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Haven Kavanagh’s Pharmacy Oximeters in stock.
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Johnny Mythen TD Due to Nationwide Covid 19 Restrictions, we are unable hold face to face advice clinics at this time.
“I would like to assure you that my office and staff are still here to help”.
Notice COVID-19
HERE TO HELP
Contact us by any of the following methods:
087 114 2100 johnny.mythen@oireachtas.ie
During this COVID-19 pandemic, my office is here to help you. I continue to work behind closed doors and you can contact me by phone, email or Facebook. In line with public health guidelines, my advice clinics and public meetings remain suspended.
Johnny Mythen Johnny Mythen TD Wexford @JohnnyMythenSF johnnymythentd Johnny Mythen TD Constituency Office Slaney Place Enniscorthy Co. Wexford Y21 T8K7
James
Browne TD 053 92 35046
jamesbrownetd@oir.ie
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TEL: 053-9255219 - RATHNURE - ENNISCORTHY 8th March 2021 - Page 3
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comment
To advertise in the Slaney News please contact: 087-2403310
Welcome to the new-look, online-only Slaney News. The nationwide restrictions currently in force have left us with little choice but to suspend physical printing of our publication for the moment as, in addition to our door-to-door delivery, we depend on 230 outlets countywide to distribute it and many of those are temporarily closed. So we’ve taken this opportunity to improve our online presence by changing our publication from a traditional newspaper format to a more online-friendly magazine style. After ten years a change was probably well and truly overdue! In addition to the new look of our publication we will also be giving our website a badly-needed makeover over the coming weeks.
SLANEY NEWS, CLONHASTON, ENNISCORTHY
Please let us know what you think about our new format. Tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page: “Slaney News”. And, of course, if you like the new format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The latest news on the spread of Covid-19 in Co. Wexford is, on balance, encouraging. At the time of going to press, Co. Wexford has improved to 9th position in the country as regards the incidence rate. Co. Wexford did however, in February, reach 100 Covid-related deaths so far with only seven counties having got to that unwanted milestone before us. In total, as at 7th March, there have been just over 6,500 cases in Co. Wexford. On the positive side, Wexford General Hospital has seen a huge easing of the situation there as regards the number of Covid patients and the ICU beds they occupy. The nationwide vaccination of the general public is underway but will take many months to complete so there’s obviously no room for complacency, with the tried and trusted rules around wearing masks, social distancing and hand-washing remaining critically important. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– After years of waiting, the new state-of-the-art St Patrick’s School at Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, could be open within a matter of days. We wish school principal, Mr Lee Rogers, and all the staff and pupils the very best of luck in their amazing new school complex. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– We would be delighted as always to receive stories and photos from our readers around the county. If you have anything you’d like us to share please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. – Frank Corcoran
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Astro Active Online Fitness and Exercise Schedule for March:
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Tel: 087-2403310 Email: slaneynews@gmail.com www.slaneynews.com Facebook: Slaney News Online: www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs PUBLISHED in Enniscorthy by Corcoran Print & Design Disclaimer: Slaney News reserves the right to accept or reject any advertisement submitted for publication. Slaney News does not attempt to investigate or verify claims made in advertisements appearing in our publication. The appearance of an advertisement in this newspaper in no way implies endorsement or approval by us of any advertising claims or of the advertiser, its product, or services. Slaney News disclaims any liability whatsoever in connection with advertising appearing in this publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that all articles published in Slaney News are true and accurate but if any errors do occur please let us know and we will gladly rectify them in our next issue. Where details of future events are given in this newspaper, we recommend that you check these details directly with the organisers as event details may be subject to change. Slaney News strongly recommends seeking independent professional advice before acting on any financial, medical or other information contained in this publication.
SLANEY NEWS
DELANEY’S NEWSAGENT – RAFTER STREET is an essential service and remains open with reduced opening hours, to serve the public: Sundays & Bank Holiday Mondays 9.30am-2pm Monday to Saturday 8.00am to 5.30pm
Don't be bored during lockdown! We have Books, Jigsaw Puzzles, Magazines, Telly Bingo & Radio Bingo, Yugioh, Pokemon & MTG. Something for all ages!
Mum and Baby Online Sessions: Starting Tuesday March 9th @ 9.45am. €5 pay as you go.
Online Teen Fitness: Wednesdays @ 4.30pm. €4 per session.
Online Flexi Stretch Over 50's Exercise Session Fridays @ 11am. €4 per session.
One to One Individual Online Sessions Available €60 (6 sessions). Bookings can be made via our website: www.astroactive.ie or email: astroactivetl@cwcwe.ie for further information. Links can also be found on our Facebook page.
Page 4 - 8th March 2021
We ask you to please remember to wear a mask, if you cannot wear a mask please wear a visor. We have to beat this virus and help protect everyone.
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8th March 2021 - Page 5
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Updates on two major projects... The new St Patrick’s School, Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, photographed earlier this year by Dee O’Leary.
❶ New St Patrick’s School could be open within days! The brand new state-of-the-art St Patrick’s School at Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, could be open within a matter of days. The Slaney News was in touch today, 8th March, just before we went to press, and staff at the old school building had actually commenced packing up! Before reaching this stage, a number of delays were encountered along the way caused by factors such as Covid-19, the complicated design of the curved building on a sloping site, and the bespoke nature of the furniture and fittings in the new building due to the special nature of the school. The new school is designed for 21 classes but there will also be a hydrotherapy pool and a whole range of support facilities such as physio services on-site as well as a fully-equipped speech and language suite. School Principal Mr Lee Rogers is very grateful to the people of Enniscorthy who did such wonderful fundraising for the new school over many years. n
School Principal Mr Lee Rogers
❷ Hospital extension to be ready by end of June The new extension to the Emergency Department at Wexford General Hospital is expected to be ready for occupation by end of June this year. The extension consists of two single-storey extensions – one to the north and one to the west of the current Emergency Department. This project was fast-tracked as an emergency due to Covid-19.
Page 6 - 8th March 2021
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Cllr.
Cathal Byrne Working for Enniscorthy Town and District
My monthly advice clinics are currently cancelled.
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If I can help you or your family please get in touch.
For Your Home & Business 1800 944 399 / 087 6689443 Info@LoveEnergy.ie www.LoveEnergy.ie
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Senator Malcolm Byrne These are difficult times for everybody but let’s keep looking out for each other and try staying positive. We will come through this. If I can help in any way, please let me know.
malcolm.byrne@oireachtas.ie
Interest/Aptitude Tests C.A.O. & College Choices Adults and Students
For more information visit www.whitneycareerguidance.com
Now taking enquiries/bookings for 2021 / 2022 Tel: 087 6763731 8th March 2021 - Page 7
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Boost for Enniscorthy’s Slaney Street Despite the best efforts of some of the street’s traditional business owners, the appearance of Slaney Street has deteriorated over recent years with about 40% of the quaint shops there now lying idle. In a welcome development, however, it has been announced that €233,000 is to be spent painting and upgrading that street’s shopfronts,
street lighting and planting. €174,000 will come from central government’s Historic Towns Initiative and €59,000 from Wexford County Council. Work will commence later this year. This project has the potential to greatly enhance the visual appearance of Slaney Street and attract in new businesses to the area. Minister James Browne sees it as “an important step
in the renewal of Enniscorthy Town”. Local TD Paul Kehoe says, “This project has the potential to make the street a hub for artists and designers and the wider Enniscorthy community and bring back a beating heart to the town. Enniscorthy is brimming with history and character, talent and enthusiasm and this funding will help to fulfil this potential.” n
Taking pride in his street – Matt Mernagh spring cleaning.
Taking pride in his street – Des Killeen going to great heights some months ago to make Slaney Street look well.
Page 8 - 8th March 2021
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8th March 2021 - Page 9
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Calling foul on irresponsible dog owners Wexford County Council is undertaking a Dog Fouling and Licence Check Campaign this Spring/Summer with wardens carrying out dog patrols and licence checks. In particular, Wardens, who are compliant with all HSE Covid-19 guidelines, will be concentrating on unlicensed and unchipped dogs, dogs not under proper control, dogs not muzzled and dogs fouling in public places. Dog fouling is a serious health hazard and causes problems for wheelchair users and people pushing children’s buggies. Offenders can receive a fixed penalty notice of €150. Dog Licences can be purchased online at www.licences.ie or in person at any Post Office. Customers having difficulty purchasing Dog Licences online can email support@licences.ie or phone 1890 200090. The Annual Dog Licence fee is €20 while a Lifetime Dog Licence costs €140.
A dog owner who fails to clean up after their animal faces the possibility of an on-the-spot fine of €150, with a maximum fine of €3,000 for those convicted for failing to pay the fine.
Owners of multiple numbers of dogs can continue to purchase a General Dog Licence from Wexford County Council at a cost of €400. Funding from dog licences helps pay for the Dog Warden Service, the collection of stray dogs and the rehoming of unwanted dogs. Co. Wexford has the busiest Pound in the country with around 500 dogs impounded in 2020. Over 94% of the dogs were reclaimed or rehomed. Wexford County Council reminds all dog owners that they must: •
Keep their dog under control when in
• •
•
•
public (best on a lead). Have a current Licence for their dog. Microchip and register their dog and have contact details on the dog’s collar. Muzzle certain breeds and keep them on a strong chain when in public (e.g. Alsatian, German Shepherd, Akita, Bull Terriers, Doberman, Rottweiler etc). Clean up after their dog if it fouls in a public place.
The maximum fine for failure to licence or keep your dog under control is €2,500. n
Enniscorthy’s dog problem The lack of dog poo bins in Enniscorthy has been a common topic at recent monthly meetings of Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) Council. EMD Manager Ger Mackey has said that more bins will be installed but that “ultimately it’s people’s own responsibility” to bring their dog’s poo home with them if no bin is convenient.
The Prom, Enniscorthy: Providing dog-poo bins is one thing, getting some people to use them is another matter entirely!!!
Page 10 - 8th March 2021
Under the Litter Pollution Act 1997, it is an offence for someone to allow their dog to foul a public place. A dog owner who fails to clean up after their animal faces the possibility of an on-the-spot fine of €150, with a maximum fine of €3,000 for those convicted for failing to pay the fine. But the Act remains almost entirely abstract as very few people are ever fined in practice. So the news that Wexford County Council is now engaging on a dog fouling and dog licence enforcement campaign is a welcome development. n
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FACES AND PLACES... Above left: Emily Rose O’Toole in Abbey Square, Enniscorthy, 27th February. Above right: Also in Abbey Square that day were Paddy Walsh and Dotty Anne Walsh. Left: Wexford Virtual St. Patrick’s Day 2021 organisers, L-R: John Michael Murphy of Seanchai Productions, Cllr Leonard Kelly, Mayor of Wexford, and Nick Bailey of Extreme Rhythm. See story pages 54-55. Below left: John Byrne (left) and Des Sheehan (right) on Rafter Street, 27th February, no doubt discussing horseracing! Below right: Two good Gaels, Fran Hendrick and Matt Mernagh, on Slaney Street, Enniscorthy.
Page 12 - 8th March 2021
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O’Callaghan’s • The Shannon
Everything you need for MOTHER’S DAY
Happy St Patrick's Day
LÁ FHÉILE PÁDRAIG SONA DUIT
€6
VALID 11TH - 14TH MARCH
4 da y offerS Graham Norton’s Prosecco Frizzante/ Frizzante Rosé 75cl was €12.00 Cadbury Milk Tray 360g - €17.64/kg was €12.70 now €6.35
HALF PRICE
Cadbury Milk Tray 530g - €18.40/kg was €19.50 now €9.75
HALF PRICE
€8.00 EACH ORIGIN: ITALY
VALID 11TH - 14TH MARCH Gran Troya Cava Brut N/V 75cl was €26.00 ONLY
Centra Mother’s Day Queen Cakes 190g - €13.16/kg
ONLY
€2.50
Centra Fresh Irish Unsmoked Ham Fillet 1.4kg - €4.29/kg
€10.00
Pierre Darcys Brut Champagne 75cl was €29.99
Cadbury Roses/Heros Carton 290g €11.79/kg was €6.85 now €3.42 each
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Offers valid from Thursday 11th March to Wednesday 17th March 2021 unless otherwise stated. See instore for full details. Customer quotas may apply. Please Drink Sensibly.
Even though our office doors may be closed, we are still here to offer help and support when you need it –
Paul
KEHOE TD
ECCE Pre-School and School-Age Care Service St. Francis Hall, Sean Browne Crescent, Enniscorthy. Opening Hours: 8.00am–6.00pm Monday to Friday.
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Breakfast Club and School Drop-off Service (St. Aidan’s Only) each morning from 8.00am (healthy breakfast options included).
School-age Care for Primary School Children from 1.40pm–6.00pm. School Collections from St. Aidan’s Parish School provided at both Junior and Senior collection times at 1.40pm and 2.40pm.
A limited number of Pre-school places available now for September 2021. Please get in touch soon! For more information please contact Anita Cleary on 085-2100493 or check out our Facebook page ‘Stepping Stones early years Centre’
053 9243558 paul.kehoe@oireachtas.ie
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8th March 2021 - Page 13
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CCTV in the spotlight in Co. Wexford Councillor Cathal Byrne on 8th February brought a motion to Wexford Co. Council seeking a clear statutory framework to allow local authorities to use CCTV to deter illegal dumping. The motion was unanimously passed. Cllr Byrne told us, “This is one of my first ever motions and is one I feel very strongly about. Our beautiful countryside is being destroyed through the scourge of illegal dumping. This motion will now go forward to the Minister for the Environment. I hope he acts and changes the law.” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) is targeting the derelict Murphy Floods site where dumping has been an issue of late. The possibility of using CCTV is being looked at to deter people from using the site as a dumping ground.
Illegal dumping is costing the country’s local authorities more than €100m a year according to new figures published by Wexford Fianna Fáil Senator Malcolm Byrne. And the County Councils are being hampered in trying to stamp out illegal dumping by the Data Protection Commissioner (DPC) who has reprimanded several councils for their use of CCTV. Senator Byrne has drafted new legislation to give local authorities the power to use CCTV to prosecute people illegally dumping their waste. He believes illegal dumping has increased during the pandemic and should be addressed urgently. “It is just awful to see bags of rubbish dumped indiscriminately. Our beauty spots are being destroyed and the waste poses a hazard... I just cannot get how some people have such a lack of civic responsibility.” He hopes the legislation can be introduced as an amendment to the Garda Síochána Act. “GDPR [General Data Protection Regulation] is often cited as the reason as to why councils cannot use CCTV... I raised it with the Data Protection Commission and my engagement with them on the issue is that we don’t have the legislation in place underpinning the use of CCTV to catch those who dump,” he added. “We need to start catching those responsible and fining them and, in my view, jailing them... One of the best weapons we can give local authorities is the ability to catch those responsible on camera.” n
The site is on the Derelict Sites Register of Wexford Co. Council and a recent fine was issued to the site owner in respect of the dumping there. EMD is planning to clean up the site in the near future. EMD is also planning to carry out random inspections in some of the town’s housing estates to establish if everybody is disposing of their rubbish in a proper way. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– At the February 2021 meeting of Wexford Borough Council, Cllr George Lawlor’s proposal to allow for the installation of CCTV cameras at Min Ryan Park was accepted. Cllr Lawlor says, “The issue of CCTV in public places is one that requires a lot of work behind the scenes in order to get sanction. Not to mention the dreaded issue of GDPR! I used my Councillors discretionary funding to provide the money to get cameras in place. This move should enhance people’s enjoyment of one of Co. Wexford’s finest civic amenities.” n
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Cllr George Lawlor enjoying the facilities at Min Ryan Park!
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County Wexford Chamber is running a competition and wants to ‘Make Your March’ by giving you the chance to win a €50 County Wexford Shop Local Voucher.
County Wexford Chamber Competition: Click here to enter the competition on Facebook 1. Like the post. 2. Tag your favourite local business in County Wexford. 3. Tag one friend. Closing date for entries is the 19th of March. Good Luck! 8th March 2021 - Page 15
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THE TRUE AWAKENING OF A SLEEPING LION? For many decades Rosslare Port has been largely ignored, limping along and withering away. I always felt that this was more by design than by default. There were too many vested interests pulling against it and no major player to break the cycle of inactivity. Why would I say this? Facts! One can not dispute facts, and some glaring omissions in planning and direction in policy. Firstly, let’s deal with ownership which was used as a reason for inactivity. It was alluded to that it is a British port. Part of the old railroad network like Pembroke Port in Wales. Never signed over to the Irish State. This I believe, if true, was to ensure a friendly port not to be used by any foes in times of crises. I am told if this is the case that the English Government has no interest in this route and Iarnród Éireann hold the title of ownership. It is believed that Iarnród Éireann diverted the profits to prop up other non-profit sectors instead of reinvesting in the port. It is also believed that it was cosy to have only two companies using the port with one ship coming in when the other is sailing out with little or no competition. The other big players in this story – the Irish Government and the South East Regional Authority by its own policies contributed to the port’s years of neglect. The government has a glancing line or two in its policy programme but with no substance. Why? Because it goes against their spatial strategy. This document is
TOWN TALK
the one time. Brexit looming put the port in focus for many people. European nations quickly began to identify a port underused but capable of expansion to store large quantities of goods. The UN can see its potential also for storage of unused vehicles in hangers as an option. The Irish Hauliers see it as a good template for post Brexit business. The Irish Government realising the major role it will play in the Brexit Border Control. Wexford County Council adapting to the new reality and making plans to assist in infrastructure in and out of the port and with any works adjacent to the port if needed to cultivate business there. And last, but by no means least, Glenn Carr the Manager of the Port.
like their road map to the promised land. This policy does not assist Wexford per se, it has Waterford as a gateway for the south east, Wexford Town as a hub, and Belview Port pride of place to assist the Waterford gateway, and Rosslare Port not in the picture. This is documented and is hidden in plain sight for years. This document is at the core of Co. Wexford and its port being squeezed and isolated for decades.
Glenn was appointed a few years ago and quickly met with the County Council. I chaired the first meeting and he saw the frustration and passion the councillors had for the port. Glenn came back with a 4-phase, 5-year plan and €30m investment, and has secured European investment to install smart digital tech. Glenn has also in a short few years expanded the companies using the port but has also opened other gateways to new destinations in Europe such as Dunkirk, Bilbao, Roscoff, Saint Malo, and has increased the number of sailings in the existing destinations. Now 36 sailings a week will take place from 1st April.
So what has changed to be more hopeful for the port’s future? A few things all at
THE LION IS NO LONGER ASLEEP AND WE MAY YET HEAR HIM ROAR.
WITH KEITH DOYLE
Updates on Enniscorthy projects In our February issue we provided a comprehensive summary (11,300 words!) of all the major public and private investments currently taking place in Enniscorthy. See page 12 of our February issue. Here are a few updates since then:
❶ There was no interest shown by
consultants in the Templeshannon Regeneration Project when it was put out to open tender some weeks ago. Wexford County Council will now engage directly with suitable consultants with a view to negotiating a tender with them for the overall design of the threestage plan, after which the Council can proceed with seeking planning permission and property acquisition if required. Meanwhile design work on the pedestrian bridge, which is part of the
Page 16 - 8th March 2021
overall project, is proceeding.
❷ The old Murphy Floods Hotel site is
now being used as a “dumping ground”, in the words of Enniscorthy Councillor, Jackser Owens. We reported last month that Wexford County Council, having acquired the adjoining Kickham’s House in 2020, is currently in discussion with the owner of the Murphy Floods site. While no plans have been revealed as yet, and with the Council ‘looking at all options’ according to District Manager, Ger Mackey, the two combined sites’ eventual use as office and retail space would seem logical for such a large prime site in the very centre of the town.
❸ Design work on Phase 2 – the new
pavilion building – at the Enniscorthy Sports Hub has begun, and construction work is expected to start this September.
❹ The new state-of-the-art St Patrick’s
School at Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, could be open within a matter of days as we understand the final snag list has been successfully dealt with.
❺ A tender has been approved for the
new €1m ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) Unit for St Aidan’s primary school and construction work will begin shortly to convert the old hall on site, which has been disused for around five years, to a state-of-the-art ASD Unit. The new unit should be ready by this September.
❻ Slaney Street – see page 8. €233,000 is
to be spent painting and upgrading that street’s shopfronts, street lighting, planting, etc. €174,000 will come from central government and €59,000 from Wexford Co. Council. Work will commence later this year. n
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A romantic engagement... Congrats to Enniscorthy’s Laura Mullett, Virgin Media One stylist and Sunday Mirror fashion columnist, on her recent engagement to Darren Cleary. The romantic pair have been together for over ten years. Laura’s February morning surprise started with a 6.30am walk to Poolbeg Lighthouse, with boyfriend Darren, to watch the sunrise and by 7am the couple were engaged. “Romantic or what?”, says Laura. Arranged as a surprise by Darren, the proposal was expertly filmed by the couple’s friend, Luke O Faolain. View the video of the proposal here.
Congrats also to Laura’s sister, Jade (left) who was nominated for the Best Celebrity Makeup Artist award at this year’s Gossies, which were broadcast online on March 7th.
8th March 2021 - Page 17
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Wexford People Helping People at the Foggy Dew B&B which was being used by the Council for accommodation for the homeless.
Wexford People Helping People (WPHP) is a non-profit charity organisation which was founded by Clair Malone in 2015. The idea at the time was to have a Christmas community dinner, free of charge, for the vulnerable and lonely of the community. From this it has steadily grown over the years. The committee members are Clair Malone (Founder), Lorraine Foley, Carole Gray, Aoife Kells, Danielle McDonald and Claudia Blaess. And they have now been joined by Raymond Shannon – a well known and dedicated activist for mental health awareness and services in Co. Wexford. Ray has fought hard for the opening of Arden House and is now battling to ensure adequate staffing at the unit for young people to access services promptly. He will continue to fight for 24/7 mental health
The Council did secure emergency accommodation in St Joseph’s Community Centre for a period of days in February while the weather was at its coldest, but say that the maximum who presented there was seven people on any one night although there was a capacity for 20 people.
Clair Malone, Wexford People Helping People founder and committee member.
services for adults and children in Co. Wexford. The Wexford People Helping People group looks after anyone in need in Co. Wexford, providing dinner and toys at Christmas, food all year round, fuel, clothing and other essential needs. They also provide tents, sleeping bags and blankets to rough sleepers in Wexford. The group has a list of 31 rough sleepers and on 11th February, one of the coldest nights this winter, it says 27 of those were sleeping out in the elements. Calls were made to Councillors, the Gardaí, and other agencies in a bid to secure emergency accommodation as both Ozanam House and the Women’s Refuge were full. Some were facilitated with accommodation in the local Garda station. One person was facilitated by a local woman offering a room in her own home. Some were turned away from emergency accommodation as they did not have the necessary ‘paperwork’.
New committee member for WPHP Raymond Shannon.
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While WPHP has been critical of Wexford County Council’s response to the homeless situation in Co. Wexford, Wexford County Council has defended its housing staff and their efforts saying it is difficult to contact many of the rough sleepers and also that it is becoming increasingly difficult for the Council to find B&Bs willing to take on these emergency cases. The situation has been exacerbated by the recent fire
While accommodation issues persist, particularly the need for ‘crash beds’ in Wexford town, WPHP will continue to help and advocate on behalf of Co. Wexford’s homeless. The group believes that one of the disused buildings in the town should be acquired and used as a hostel/emergency accommodation, and WPHP would fund and staff the running of it from its own resources gathered from the amazing people of Co. Wexford who support them over and over again, through donations or otherwise. The group says, "Thank you all so much for your support always. Wexford is an amazing little community." One person who has risen to the challenge to help WPHP is Julie Dwyer. Julie organised a Wexford Performers Unite online music night in response to the fire that took place on 7th February at The Foggy Dew. €3,000 was raised by Julie for Wexford People Helping People who are trying to organise accommodation for those directly affected by the fire. Julie says, ‘No one deserves to be on the streets... These people need help and they need it now.’ Check out the WPHP Facebook page Wexford People Helping People n
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Cllr Tom Forde
Sinn Féin County Councillors – Deputy Mayor of Wexford Tom Forde and Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin – have joined a number of their fellow Councillors in tackling the issue of rough sleepers across Co. Wexford. A joint motion is for consideration at the March meeting of Wexford County Council, which is taking place as we go to press, insisting on the urgent installation of 'crash bed' facilities across the county. This motion is being brought by the aforementioned Councillors together with Cllrs Jim Codd, Jackser Owens and Davy Hynes, who hope to push the Council into action on this matter. Cllr Ó Súilleabháin said: "Following last month's special meeting on Housing, it was clear that a renewed approach must be taken by like-minded councillors to ensure adequate provision of these essential services for rough sleepers and those facing homelessness. The cross-party support on this issue highlights that the political will is there to solve the problem, it is now up to the Council to act and implement the will of the Co. Wexford people who want their respective council-
Cllr Davy Hynes
Councillors unite on behalf of Wexford’s rough sleepers lors to get this issue sorted. How long are we going to discuss this issue? Every month that goes by we rely on the work done by outreach workers and voluntary organisations to help with an issue that could be, and should be, addressed by this Council."
Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin
beds. This is not a tropical climate, I wouldn't envy anyone faced with the prospect of sleeping outside in Ireland, even in the mildest of weather, never mind the wind and the rain. This is a county-wide problem and I think all councillors submitting this motion feel that an even spread of unisex crash beds is the very least we can do to help those who need them." The motion reads: “Due to the extent and nature of the homelessness problem in County Wexford we request that a minimum of 6 unisex 'crash beds' (emergency placements open to receive people throughout the night) be made available by Wexford County Council, in different districts, to provide safe shelter for our homeless, 7 nights per week, and that this is implemented with near immediate effect, as soon as is operationally possible.”
Cllr Jackser Owens
Cllr Forde said: "I am proud to put my name to this motion along with my Council colleagues, and try to get this issue over the line. Crash beds are not a permanent solution, but in light of the Council failing to address the issue of an adequate 'out of hours' service, as Councillors we are faced with few other options but to insist on the installation of crash beds as an emergency measure to ensure we can at least offer those who have been not able to secure emergency accommodation with somewhere safe and warm to rest for the night. While I recognise that the Council does have a 'cold snap' facility in place to house rough sleepers, I don't agree that this goes far enough and weather forecasting shouldn't really be a factor in the provision of safe
A separate motion from the Rosslare District Councillors reads: “That the Rosslare Municipal District call on Wexford County Council to enact an out of hours service for people who find themselves homeless including rough sleepers." n
Cllr Jim Codd
8th March 2021 - Page 19
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On the top of the world at Wells House: Clodagh with her dad Peter Breen.
Over 450 acres – plenty of space for social distancing! The team at Wells House & Gardens was delighted to reopen the award-winning amenity on the 1st of March for the 2021 season, with loads of exciting new things to do and see. Seasonal memberships are now available which grant unlimited access to Wells House & Gardens for the 2021 season. Learn more at https://wellshouse.ie/membership-passes/ Get Your Gate Entry Tickets Online at https://wellshouse.ie/book-now/
The reopening of Wells House, Ballyedmond, on 1st March 2021. Above left: Alannah, Keeva and mum Gillian Doran. Above right: Danielle Kershake, Laurna Cox, Colm Grassick and Treacy Coles. Right: At the sun dial were Cormac and Max Driver.
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High hopes for new hotel
€558,650 for Wexford’s Outdoor Amenities Deputy Paul Kehoe has welcomed the funding for three projects across Co. Wexford under Measure 2 of the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme, which was announced at the beginning of March. The scheme provides funding for the development, promotion and maintenance of outdoor amenities such as trails, walkways, cycleways, and blueways. The three Wexford projects are: n €166,500 - Forth Mountain Equestrian Trail and Ballybrittas
Portal Tomb Walk. n €192,150 - Duncannon to Ballyhack Trail – Phase 2. n €200,000 - Our Lady’s Island to Carne Trail and Kellyswood
Interlink Trail. In welcoming the funding Deputy Kehoe said: “Our outdoor amenities in County Wexford make an immeasurable contribution to our physical and mental wellbeing, and never more than during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
At the end of February, Wexford Co. Council granted planning permission for a major hotel and commercial development on a site with frontage at Commercial Quay, Wexford. The news has been widely welcomed with Wexford Mayor Leonard Kelly saying, “This is great to see, and a sign of confidence in our town. This will be a landmark building as you approach the town.” The development will consist of demolition of all existing structures on the site and redevelopment including construction of a part 5-storey, part 7-storey and part 8-storey over basement mixed-use development accommodating a hotel fronting to Commercial Quay, retail/non-retail service/restaurants spaces and 12 residential units.
“We can also expect our outdoor recreation facilities to play an important part in supporting Ireland’s social and economic recovery as restrictions on movements are relaxed and the tourism sector re-opens. For example, the funding for the Ballybrittal Portal Tomb will extend the existing walking trails to a portal tomb and allow people to view the tomb but include measures to protect the national monument. “These facilities will make such a difference to communities and will also have a hugely positive impact on tourism.” n
ENNISCORTHY ENGINEERING & FABRICATION
The development will accommodate: Two retail/non-retail service/restaurant units (c.355m2) fronting on to Charlotte Street and Commercial Quay, hotel foyer and bin stores at ground floor level. Hotel administration and staff facilities at ground floor mezzanine level. Restaurant and courtyard, bar/lounge, meeting rooms with associated balconies, function room, smoking area, kitchen, stores and toilets at first floor level. Gym, meeting rooms with associated balconies and cold room at first floor mezzanine level. 142 hotel bedrooms and storage areas on second, third and fourth floors. Twelve 2-bedroom apartments with associated balconies at fifth, sixth and seventh floor level. 105 car parking spaces at basement, ground floor and ground floor mezzanine levels. Vehicular entrance from Commercial Quay. Plant and storage at basement level. External plant at first, fifth and roof level. All associated signage, landscaping, site work and services. n
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8th March 2021 - Page 21
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Enniscorthy fire station proposal Cllr Aidan Browne and Frank Corcoran (Slaney News) checking out the proposed fire station site at Quarrypark, Enniscorthy.
A 1.2 acre site for a new state-of-the-art fire station has been purchased by Wexford Co. Council at Quarrypark, Enniscorthy, on the outskirts of the town. The new site is in a strategic location close to the M11, N30 and N80 roads so it's an ideal location for call-outs both within and outside the Enniscorthy town area. The proposal to build a new fire station in Enniscorthy is not included in the current Capital Programme of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage but provision of a new fire station in New Ross and the upgrading of Gorey fire station is included in the programme. The Enniscorthy proposal is included in a list of projects for annual review by the Department so it could be several years before the new station will be built and in use. Cllr Aidan Browne says the current Enniscorthy building is outdated and the proposed building would provide a facility that better suits the needs of a modern fire service. He and other local public representatives have said they will work hard on getting the Enniscorthy fire station project up and running as soon as possible.
CO. WEXFORD’S VACCINATION CENTRE IN WAITING A Covid-19 Mass Vaccination Centre has been secured at the Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy and is likely to be up and running within a matter of weeks. An Enniscorthy-based centre was campaigned for by a number of local politicians including Cllr Aidan Browne who stressed Enniscorthy’s geographic location “at the centre of the county”. Local Minister James Browne says, “This is very welcome news and will come as a great relief to many people... I want to thank the Riverside Park Hotel for making their hotel available for such an important community service and the HSE for ensuring that Co. Wexford has a major vaccination centre. This vaccination centre is expected to include: 10 Injection Bays, Recovery Area, Temp-orary Pharmacy and Registration Centre.” n
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Minister James Browne TD at the Riverside Park Hotel which will be the new Covid-19 Vaccination Centre for Co. Wexford.
SlaNey NewS ROSSLARE DEVELOPMENTS: Isn’t it incredible that it took Brexit to demonstrate the strategic importance of the Port of Rosslare. For many years, going back to the 1970’s, local voices have been continuously emphasising the need for this important asset to be developed. Despite continuous lobbying of successive governments, the accumulative development expenditure within the port has been abysmal. Brexit has changed all of that. We now have a rush to get things done in the port. The increase in activity over the past couple of months has been astronomical to say the least and is indeed very welcome. The effort to avoid having to use the socalled British Landbridge has been the driving factor in this. The local staff at the port have responded in tremendous fashion to the new challenge. They have accommodated an increase of over 500% in trade and activity with very little assistance from central government. A massive development of the entire port area is now required and although we haven’t actually seen much hard cash being spent yet there are firm commitments from both the Government and Co. Council that the necessary requirements will be met. Let’s hope that as we pass out of a terrible year because of covid and related difficulties that Rosslare Port will be a very positive story going into the future. BANK OF IRELAND CLOSURES: Having written so positively above about Rosslare, it is really disheartening to note that the Bank of Ireland are so totally removed from reality that they intend to close their branch at Rosslare Harbour. At a time of major renewal in this part of Ireland, the gateway to Europe and the E.U., it is nothing short of stunning that Bank of Ireland, rather than expand their branch there, would decide to close it. That requires some lack of planning from within the inner circles of this monolith. Taghmon, in the heart of our agricultural county, is another victim of this cutback.
View from the Centre
A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond vaccine. This is not only causing huge anxiety amongst the population generally but is holding up the reopening of all businesses currently closed. It is soul destroying for people who really want to work and desperately need to get their shops and stores and other businesses back up and running to be forced to sit helplessly by and witness the snail’s pace of the vaccination programme. The almost daily press conferences from HSE and NPHET officials are not helping the mood and the terrible, sometimes contradictory, comments from our leading politicians are driving people to the brink. The Government must really get its act together very soon or quite frankly they will totally lose the cooperation of the public with regard to the various restrictions under which we have been forced to live over the past twelve months.
One of the problems of the recent economic recession is that most banks either have, or are in the process of, pulling out of Ireland. This leaves AIB and Bank of Ireland. Regrettably, our choices are incredibly limited now and such arbitrary announcements are going to be the future of services such as this. VACCINATION ROLL OUT: I think that there is general dissatisfaction with the roll out of the covid
Rosslare Harbour and Taghmon branches are among those chosen for closure by Bank of Ireland.
ENNISCORTHY FLOOD PREVENTION: Enniscorthy escaped flooding by the skin of its teeth in the last few weeks. The heavy rains and tidal movements in Wexford put the town on alert and local authority officials and workers were on standby in the event of disaster. Thankfully, the threat passed without major incident. Having breathed a sigh of relief on that one, it has to be said that the antics surrounding the flood relief plan are comical to say the least. The delays are unacceptable. Our public representatives must follow this up with vigour before another flooding incident devastates the town. In fairness, Councillor Jackser Owens has been to the forefront of this campaign for many years. Even when Jackser lost his seat and before he was re-elected he didn’t let this issue go. He doesn’t seem to be getting the unanimous support of his colleagues in relation to this matter. The time for concerted united action has arrived. Let us hope that we see it shortly. NEW ROSS SINCE THE BYPASS: Many of us are familiar with New Ross, particularly those who travel to any part of Ireland west of the Barrow. Since the new bypass was opened a year ago, the town has benefited from lack of traffic congestion and has been given space to breathe. There was a great expectation that we would see rapid improvements in and around the town as a result of this new freedom. However, covid has put a stop to much of the plans to improve the appearance of the area and the quality of life for those living there. Clean-up and development plans had to be put on hold but I am assured that the removal of the unsightly oil tanks on the western side of town will commence as soon as level 5 restrictions are lifted and that High Hill, site of the former Royal Hotel, will be developed into a garden for the benefit of the people of, and visitors to, the town. John Street itself badly needs a facelift and the council are in the process of moving along the necessary compulsory purchase orders to secure derelict or near-derelict properties in the area to enable a renewal programme to begin. Towns like New Ross were badly hit in the recession of ten years ago and were just coming out of that downturn when covid struck. Hopefully, we will see an end to the long nightmare shortly and will witness towns like New Ross come back into their own to thrive over the decades ahead. n
8th March 2021 - Page 25
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Defibrillators (AEDs) save lives There are twelve life-saving defibrillators around Enniscorthy town kindly donated by the Ger Devereux Memorial Fund and under the remit of the ‘Enniscorthy Defibrillator Initiative in Memory of Ger’ (the late Ger Devereux). These defibrillators are registered with the National Ambulance Service. In the event of an emergency please dial 999/112 and state the Defibrillator eircode you will then be given the code for the Defibrillator box. Eircode stickers have been placed on the boxes for your convenience. A list of Enniscorthy locations is given elsewhere on this page. It is recommended that readers add this list to their phones. Michael Devereux, the main organiser behind the initiative, tells us that there may be some more defibrillators coming on stream soon. The Slaney News will keep you posted on their locations. Michael would like to thank Paddy Redmond and Enniscorthy Red Cross for their continued support with training courses, and conducting maintenance audits regularly. Once the Covid-19 crisis is over, if you’re interested in learning how to use these life-saving devices please contact the Enniscorthy Unit, Irish Red Cross, on 087-0626751. The CPR/AED course is 4 hours duration and is run by Enniscorthy Red Cross. Remember: Call 999/112 in an emergency to gain access to a defibrillator. n
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The new Glenbrien defibrillator ➤ is located at the end of the Ballinastraw road on to the R744 (Ballagh to Enniscorthy road)
ENNISCORTHY DEFIBRILLATOR LOCATIONS St Senan’s Church Cooney Furlong / Gala, Old Dublin Road Post Office, on the side facing Castle Hill Daybreak – Chapel Lane Service Station, Drumgoold No. 4 Milehouse Rapps/Starlights GAA Club, Bellefield Mace – Bellefield Service Station Martins Service Station, Monfin The Millennium Bar, Davidstown Daybreak, Greenville Lane The Still, Fairfield, Enniscorthy Enniscorthy Garda Station, Lymington Road
EIRCODE Y21CR27 Y21H2V0 Y21EV22 Y21XH64 Y21E1A2 Y21F2W8 Y21K2V9 Y21P7D4 Y21E371 Y21RF83 Y21A3K2 Y21EW71
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Enjoying a takeaway ‘cuppa’
Enniscorthy Red Cross attending to the AED at Gala on the Old Dublin Road.
m O’Gorman, Derek
Sa At Courtown Harbour:
ey.
Kelly and Dylan Sween
At Courtown Harbour: Leanne Sexton and Roiseen Quirke.
On Rafter Street, Enniscorthy:
Ferns St Aidans GAA Club has installed a new Defibrillator on their grounds. The Eircode is Y21 PA48.
r.
Michelle and Brendan O’Conno
Enjoying a takeaway ‘cuppa’ will be even easier with the news that Wexford County Council will be soon granting Outdoor Trading Licences at Wexford Quays (3 max), Min Ryan Park (1) and Carrigfoyle Trails (1). The application process will be adjudicated under a number of headings including quality of product and proposed operating unit and will be for a period of one year.
8th March 2021 - Page 27
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A warm welcome for new appointees Fr. Odhrán Furlong (ADM) has warmly welcomed the arrival of Fr Jim Doyle to begin his ministry in St Aidan’s Cathedral Parish, Enniscorthy. Fr. Jim was ordained in his home parish of Murrintown in June 2006, the first priest to be ordained by Bishop Denis Brennan. Since then he has served in Bunclody, Monamolin, and Mulrankin & Tomhaggard.
Fr Jim Doyle
As well as his pastoral experience, Fr. Jim also brings a wealth of talent and knowledge from his former occupation as a civil engineer which Fr Odhrán believes will come in useful in “our beautiful Cathedral and surrounds... I know that Fr. Jim will be very happy as a member of our Parish Team and that he will greatly enjoy working in this friendly and rewarding parish. I wish him every blessing and success in his ministry among us,” said Fr Odhrán. n
Trevor Sargent is a former Irish Green Party politician who served as Minister of State for Food and Horticulture from 2007 to 2010 and Leader of the Green Party from 2001 to 2007. He served as a TD for the Dublin North constituency from 1992 to 2011. His new role however is a little different – as a minister of the Church of Ireland, Reverend Sargent was instituted last month as Rector of Bunclody Union of Parishes succeeding Canon Michael Stevenson who retired in February 2020. n
Rev Trevor Sargent
A presentation to Bishop Denis Brennan
On the 15th (liturgical) anniversary of the announcement of his appointment as Bishop of Ferns in 2006, a presentation was made to Bishop Denis Brennan at the 10am Ash Wednesday Mass 2021 in St. Aidan’s Cathedral to belatedly mark the occasion of his Golden Jubilee as a priest of the diocese of Ferns. A somewhat delayed and reduced gathering occurred due to Covid restrictions. Last May, Bishop Brennan quietly celebrated his Golden jubilee (31st May 1970) with a congregation of 10 people in Rathnure church, the location of his first Mass on 1st June 1970. The presentation on 17th February to Bishop Brennan was of a bronze representation of The Last Supper by Irish artist Fergus O’Farrell. Speaking at the small ceremony, Monsignor Joe McGrath paid tribute to Bishop Brennan for his work over the years as priest and bishop. Above: Fr. Jim Doyle, CC St Aidan’s Cathedral, Fr. Odhran Furlong (ADM), Bishop Brennan and Monsignor Joe McGrath V.G. n
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SHOP ENNISCORTHY – stats show scheme’s success The Shop Enniscorthy campaign was put together by IMPART PR and launched on 17th November last. A review has now been carried out to gauge its success at the 3-month mark – 17th February. The review shows that 104 local retailers are now listed on the website (www.shopenniscorthy.ie). Anybody trading can feature for free by completing the online form on the website which was upgraded in January to reflect the latest restrictions and is now re-categorised into three sections Retail / Essential Business / Services with direct links through to the traders’ online shops and social media platforms, and new function features for ease of use like a Load More button and clearer image layout. Website Stats In the three months up to 17th February, there have been 2,110 unique visitors to the Shop Enniscorthy website – generating 5,922 individual page views. Facebook drove the highest volume of views to the site (1,487 views), followed by Google Search (347 views), Instagram (99 views), Twitter (119 views). There were 1,465 clicks off from the site throughout the 12 weeks – 949 clicks to the Shop Enniscorthy Facebook page, 135 clicks to the Shop Enniscorthy You Tube Page, 60 clicks to the Enniscorthy Chamber Buy a Voucher page and 25 to the Enjoy Enniscorthy Facebook page. 1,104 clicks were recorded to individual retailers’ Facebook pages and 918 clicks to their website shop pages. Social Media – Overall reach is now 50,000 plus on Facebook and 1,000 across Instagram. 1,841 people like and 2,163 people follow https://www.facebook.com/shopenniscorthy after 12 weeks live.
At present, no live video footage is possible under Level 5, but other ideas are being considered to keep the campaign fresh and vibrant. A reopening drive is being planned around April/May to coincide with the easing of restrictions from Level 5, based on the taglines ‘Spring into Shop Enniscorthy’ and ‘Shop Enniscorthy this Summer’ marked by new video with content focused on those retailers allowed to reopen and a ‘thank you’ reel focused on shop/service staff and owners working all along as essential services. Retailers are encouraged when posting on their own social media to use the hashtag #shopenniscorthy as this drives Google recognition of the project and the listed businesses. Presently IMPART PR is compiling a free online survey to measure sentiment, the campaign itself, impact on businesses and to elicit suggestions on supports needed now and for the future. Current Status So far the Shop Enniscorthy campaign has achieved its initial aim of generating increased retail spend locally. This has been achieved from a mainly organic, nonpaid advertising campaign supported by on-street signage. The success is driven mainly from the consistency of sharing content – both original and third party – across four social media platforms including the website www.shopenniscorthy.ie. The engagement from the three main groups involved – Enniscorthy Municipal District, Enniscorthy Business Association and Enniscorthy Chamber cemented the project and helped build reach and assisted with tweaking any initial issues. The interlinking between the IMPART PR team and the businesses on board to date
has enabled the consistent publication of material. The campaign has undoubtedly succeeded in putting a face to the people and professionals employed and running businesses in the town by its use of colourful and personality-driven images and videos across all the platforms. Individual stores have also greatly upscaled their own social media efforts with live online sales a weekly occurrence which drives not only sales but interaction under lockdown for customers. After three months, Shop Enniscorthy is now established and actively promoting the retail detail of the town and also driving business sales through a sense of community and website hits to individual retailers’ pages. It is considered countywide as having been a huge success to date. Enniscorthy has so much to offer from a retail perspective with great choice and great characters, and it is uniquely boutique in character from personal services through to specialist retailers and general provisions shopping. This is considered by many to be the town’s biggest selling point and hopefully the Shop Enniscorthy campaign will continue to capture this unique aspect. Sinead Cashin of IMPART PR would like to thank EMD and its Chairperson, BarbaraAnne Murphy; Jimmy Gahan of Enniscorthy Chamber, and The Enniscorthy Business Association for their help and cooperation to date. Retailers can email their offers/retail news to info@shopenniscorthy.ie for posting, or private message the ‘Shop Enniscorthy’ Facebook page or use the quick contact form on the Shop Enniscorthy website n
8th March 2021 - Page 29
Dr Stephen Bowe as he locks his GP practice in Selskar Court for the last time.
Dr Stephen Bowe with his wife Joan and his daughter Ruth.
Wexford GP blows full time whistle on distinguished medical career
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Wexford GP, Dr Stephen Bowe, has retired after 47 years practising medicine, 36 of those spent in Wexford town. A native of Enniscorthy, Dr Bowe is the son of the late Dr Bob Bowe and his wife Joan (nee O’Connor) of Main Street, Enniscorthy. Stephen is the third in a family of five and went to school in the Mercy and CBS Enniscorthy. He helped out in his father’s practice from a young age, answering phones, taking messages and even going on house calls with his father who he remembers as being “the happiest man I ever saw in his job”. In 1968 he commenced studying medicine in UCD, before graduating in 1974. He trained in a number of Dublin hospitals – St Vincent’s, Crumlin Children’s Hospital, and Holles St – before commiting himself to general practice initially in Enniscorthy and then in Carbury, Co. Kildare, before setting up his own GP practice in Selskar Court, Wexford, in 1984. The following year, he met his future wife, Joan Brogan from Wexford town, at a tennis tournament in Wexford Harbour Boat Club and got married to Joan in September 1991. The couple have three children – Stephanie who recently qualified as a doctor from UCC and has been successful in obtaining membership of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, Ruth who is a qualified physiotherapist with a Masters Degree from Brunel College in London, and Philip who is just completing his Masters Degree in Sports Science at St Mary’s in Twickenham. As well as being an exceptionally busy GP, Dr Bowe also finds the time to minister to the Wexford hurling teams – senior, under 20 and minor – like his father had done before him. Between them they have served Wexford teams for over 60 years starting in 1958. Dr Stephen appreciates how important the teams are to the people of Co. Wexford and he finds being part of the set-up very rewarding, and pays great credit to the amateur players and their commitment to the county jersey. He has agreed to stay on
working with the teams for one more tilt at All-Ireland title success this summer. In addition to his GAA duties, Dr Bowe has also agreed to work part-time in a medical capacity at a residential unit at Farnogue and will also volunteer to help out with the Covid-19 vaccination programme if required. Dr Bowe says he enjoys the personal approach to medicine rather than the more technical and technology-driven path he sees all facets of society heading towards, and he believes it would be a shame if the human, personal touch was diminished as a consequence. He says he will miss the interaction with his patients many of whom he considers close friends at this stage. A former member of Wexford Lions Club, he initiated the annual Wexford Lions Club Art Exhibition and recently formed a committee that showcases the young voices of Wexford in ‘The Street’ auditorium of the new Co. Council headquarters at Carricklawn. Retirement will allow Dr Bowe to pursue other interests including keeping fit and exploring more thoroughly his home county, as well as upskilling himself in the world of modern technology and computers. Dr Bowe says he will be eternally grateful to his father, Dr Bob Bowe, for the opportunity to pursue his medical career and for being such a wonderful role model in the way he looked after all members of the community in a caring and compassionate manner. The Bowe family is particularly appreciative of the lovely poem written by Eamonn Wall about Dr Bob Bowe which we reproduced in last month’s issue of the Slaney News. Dr Stephen Bowe is most grateful to the people of Wexford for their support, and for the terrific contribution of his own staff in Selskar, and acknowledges also the support shown by his medical colleagues in Wexford General Hospital and all the wonderful staff there. n
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The Slaney News wishes all our readers a Happy Mother’s Day on the 14th March and St Patrick’s Day on the 17th 8th March 2021 - Page 31
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Gorey group shortlisted for major Adult Education Award The Gorey Youth Needs Group was shortlisted for a prestigious AONTAS STAR Award in the Health and Wellbeing category. The STAR Awards (Showcasing Teamwork, Awarding Recognition) are an awards initiative organised by the national adult learning organisation, AONTAS, to recognise and celebrate the work undertaken by adult learning initiatives throughout Ireland.
L-R: Tara Farrell, Chairperson of Aontas, Niamh O’Reilly, CEO of Aontas and Hilary Rose, star of the hit TV show ‘The Young Offenders’ who presented last year’s awards.
The Gorey Youth Needs Group supports young people and their families living in the Gorey area. They provide a safe environment with a positive atmosphere where young people are made to feel comfortable, respected, valued and are encouraged to just be themselves. The group also provides a number of services including an AfterSchool Club (both primary and secondary), an LGBTI Group, and a Young Women’s Group and a Parent and Toddler Group. They are also home to three non-profit organisations including the Gorey Training Initiative, the Courtown Local Training Initiative and Little Daisies Childcare. Commenting on the shortlist, Niamh O’Reilly, CEO of AONTAS, said: “The STAR awards are an excellent opportunity to celebrate the positive contribution that adult learning initiatives make to individual adult learners, local communities and wider society. The quality of nominations this year has been exceptional. During the ongoing
COVID-19 pandemic adult learning initiatives are continuing to provide essential supports and services to those adult learners most in need. The Gorey Youth Needs Group is a brilliant example of this and we are delighted to have such a
wonderful initiative shortlisted for a STAR award.” Although, it did not end up winning a national award on this occasion, the Gorey Youth Needs Group can be proud of having been shortlisted for such a prestigious award. n
Having fun at Gorey Town Park, February 2021, L-R: Kate Fitzpatrick, Daniel Fitzpatrick, and Maude Daly Regan
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Wexford’s Green Estate Launch
Mayor of Wexford, Cllr Leonard Kelly, with Wexford County Council Environment Section staff, Cliona Connolly (left) and Gerry Forde (right).
On Friday 5th March, Councillor Leonard Kelly, Mayor of the Borough District of Wexford, launched the Green Estate Pilot Programme at Ferrybank, Wexford. In attendance on the day and supporting this initiative were Gerry Forde and Cliona Connolly, Environment Section, Wexford County Council. Councillor Kelly came up with the idea and concept behind The Green Estate Pilot programme. The programme is an initial step to encourage residents to begin to think about creating areas for nature within the public spaces of their estate.
Councillor Kelly stated, “This scheme is the first step in creating spaces for nature and increasing awareness around how important nature is and the impact that our actions have on nature. The current pandemic has made us realise how important where we live is and how we value and utilise green spaces. We have known for a long time the importance of nature in building healthy communities. The green estate pilot programme is about residents pledging to take just three simple actions to improve the green area within their estate to benefit nature. “I would like to thank the Wexford Environmental Network for their input and the Environment Section for taking
on board my idea and developing the pilot phase of this initiative.” Gerry Forde thanked the Mayor for bringing his idea to the Council and stated that “the pilot phase of the programme is open to any housing estate within the Municipal District of Wexford. We would hope that following a successful pilot it will be opened to all districts and can be further expanded in different phases to include energy and waste management. Information can be provided in further phases on how simple actions can be taken to help combat climate change.” For more information on the pilot programme please visit: www.wexfordcoco.ie n
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Bláithín s e s a c w o h s y r e l l e w je k e e W n o i h s a F n o d for Lon Local Enterprise Office Wexford client Bláithín Ennis met Paul Costelloe, one of the most renowned and respected designers in the British and Irish fashion industry, and his son William, last October in Brown Thomas, where she was selling her 'Freyja' collection as part of the CREATE project in the store. It was a lovely lockdown lift when Paul's team contacted Bláithín a few weeks ago requesting some of her jewellery for his catwalk show at London Fashion Week.
Bláithín Ennis
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It was a huge privilege for Bláithín to participate in his show. His customers have included members of the British royal family including Diana, Princess of Wales. Paul's design ethos from high-end catwalk shows to beautifully accessible pieces, such as his homewares collection in Dunnes Stores,
have continued to inspire Bláithín as she grows her brand as a relatively new designer. London Fashion Week has been one of Bláithín's ambitions for many years, so who better to work with! Liz Hore, Head of Enterprise at Wexford County Council, said, “It really is such a success story to see Bláithín’s beautiful pieces on a world stage like this. Here at the Local Enterprise Office it’s our mission to support small businesses, like Bláithín’s, as they grow into successful enterprises.” The Local Enterprise Office Wexford assists start-ups and existing small businesses with financial, training and mentoring supports. You can get in touch on 053 919 6020 and at info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie n
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Any individual or organised group interested in the idea can email their interest to: michaeldevereux@live.com
Allotments for Enniscorthy? Michael Devereux, the main man behind the roll-out of defibrillators around Enniscorthy (see page 26) is also leading the drive for the establishmement of Allotments in the town. Allotments are already successfully running in New Ross and Tombrack.
ability, recycling, transition year school projects etc. Michael says it would be “a complete and diverse community based project. We can make it happen... Please share this idea and hopefully we will get a positive response and move forward together.”
Michael is currently gauging the level of interest in an allotment project in Enniscorthy and initial feedback is very positive.
The Government specified allotments as a key part of the All Ireland Pollinator Plan 2015-2020, yet currently, Cork city has only one local authority allotment site, while Galway city has two. Dublin South Central has seven. This compares with the city of Newcastle in England
Allotments tick a lot of boxes regards mental wellbeing, healthy heart, multigenerational activity, tidy towns, sustain-
which has more than 3,000 plots available at 61 sites. In fact, in the UK, district councils have a duty to provide land if six or more people request an allotment. At the February meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District, Councillors Cathal Byrne and Aidan Browne spoke strongly in favour of the idea and Manager Ger Mackey said that he had been aware of the idea and that some suitable plots of land may be available. He offered to look into the matter further and to report back to the Councilllors and to keep them updated. n
8th March 2021 - Page 35
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IT’S A HARD JOB... BUT SOMEBODY’S GOT TO DO IT!!!
Aldi launches hunt for Chief Easter Egg Tasting Officer! Aldi is searching for an Easter egg tastetester to sample its biggest range yet. One lucky recruit will receive FREE chocolate in exchange for reviews that will help Aldi’s buying team with their Easter chocolate decisions for next year. The role will involve tasting, rating and reviewing a selection of Aldi’s range, which includes the blonde chocolate Specially Selected Exquisite Beehive Egg with honeycomb pieces! The overall winner will receive Aldi’s Easter Egg range as well as a €500 Aldi voucher.
To land the cracking role all you need is an infatuation for confectionery and experimental taste buds! To enter the competition, consumers will be asked to email eastereggofficer@aldi.ie explaining the reasons why they should be offered the role of Chief Egg Tasting Officer at Aldi Ireland. Entrants should include ‘eggs-amples’ of their favourite Aldi chocolate, as well any sweet tales that may help them be successful.
The three runners-up will each receive a hamper of Aldi Easter Eggs and a €200 Aldi voucher.
Successful applicants will receive their first products to sample from the 15th March, loads of time for them to advise everyone they know on their favourites!
Applications open on the 8th March and close on the 12th March. Over 18s only.
Easter has become a key date for Aldi and this year the supermarket announced it will
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be adding delightful innovations such as Milkshake, Beehive and Geo shaped eggs to its range, as well as a variety of freefrom and vegan options. John Curtin, Group Buying Director at Aldi Ireland says: “We’ve never before had such a wonderful variety of Easter egg shapes, colours, and flavour combinations. We want to hear from people over 18 who simply love chocolate and can help showcase our innovative range. If this sounds like ‘eggs-actly’ what you’ve been looking for, be quick, the deadline for applications is the 12th March.” Terms and conditions apply, see: https://www.aldi.ie/customerservices/terms-and-conditions n
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Keeping active during Covid By Oonagh Trehin BSc MSc ANutr
We all know being active is good for us and important for staying healthy, but it can be hard to keep going! Regular activity can:
Reduce risk of heart disease Improve sleep Increase energy Improve our mental health Help to maintain bone and muscle health
Activity can also give us a reason to get outside, challenge ourselves, and during Covid, provide some structure to our days and a bit of distraction. Irish adults are advised to exercise for 30 minutes 5 days per week. That might sound like a lot, but it can be broken up throughout the day, e.g. 2 x 15min walks, and it is worth bearing in mind that activities such as gardening and cleaning count too! Tips for keeping active: Get into a routine – e.g. try to go for your walk at the same time every day and get into the habit of going. Find a form of exercise you enjoy – there are many classes available
online now, so there is plenty to try. Yoga, pilates, dancing, Zumba can all be great. Try to add activity throughout your day – go for regular short walks, take the stairs, park at the back of the car park at the supermarket. Make it social – use your walk time to call a friend, or set a challenge with a friend/family to keep you motivated. Make sure you fuel yourself – if you are increasing your activity levels, you will notice yourself feeling more hungry. Make sure you honour this hunger with an extra snack or larger meal.
Oonagh Trehin is a registered associate nutritionist (ANutr) from Co. Wexford. She studied nutrition for four years at Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, and received a BSc Nutrition in 2016. In November 2017, she graduated from an MSc in Public Health at the University of Sunderland. Her passion for nutrition and science led her to set up Little O Nutrition which offers an evidence-based, judgement-free, friendly service. Oonagh contributes a regular column to the Slaney News.
Drink plenty of water before, during and after activity. Remember to warm up and cool down before activity. Keeping active can have huge benefits, and be positive for our mental, as well as our physical wellbeing. With so many wonderful ways to stay active online, and outdoors, now is the perfect time to focus on exercise!
For more info visit www.littleonutrition.com or contact Oonagh on 083-3260216 or littleonutrition@gmail.com n
8th March 2021 - Page 37
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One of Enniscorthy’s best-loved shops celebrates a memorable milestone CELEBRATING 50 YEARS!
The staff of Brendan Stafford Craft Butchers, Rafter Street, Enniscorthy. L-R: Killian Stafford, Daren Dunne, Brendan Stafford, Martin Buckley and Tom Murphy. On 1st March 2021, the shop celebrated 50 years serving the public of Enniscorthy and surrounding areas.
modern convenience. We also make our own delicious sausages and burgers, and specialise in dry-cured bacon (rashers, streaky rashers, and smoked rashers).
In 1961, aged 16, Brendan Stafford, a native of Monagear, commenced his working life in the butcher business. “I learned my trade in Moore Street, Dublin, before moving home to Wexford” where he set up his own business in Enniscorthy on 1st March 1971 on Slaney Place where the Cotton Tree Cafe is now. Since then, the shop has moved to its current location at 3 Rafter Street where the name Stafford has become synonymous with meat of the very highest quality.
which have a lot of flavour.”
Killian says: “We are dedicated to top quality produce. We have always maintained the best quality meat because if you cut the quality of your meat you’re just the same as everyone else, you need to stand out from the crowd.”
Killian also says, “We have some of the more traditional cuts that are making culinary comebacks like Oxtail, Beef Kidneys, Shoulders of Irish Lamb and Tornado of Pork. We encourage our customers to take advantage of our experience and expertise and ask us for advice on how to cook these traditional cuts. In a real butcher’s, meat has meaning.”
Brendan has always promoted traditional breeds of cattle like Hereford and Angus. “For good quality beef you need the traditional breeds of catttle, the bit of fat on these animals gives the meat the perfect flavour. We find meat is lacking in flavour in the big continental animals, so we go for the young traditional cattle
Killian takes huge pride in their meat range: “We are a proper butcher’s, in that we have all the traditional cuts of meat. We have T-Bones, Rib Roast on the Bone, Loin Pork Chops on the Bone, Racks of Irish Lamb and Pork with Crackling. We also stock a wide range of ready-to-cook products for those who enjoy that extra,
During the current Covid restrictions, the shop remains fully open and also offers a click and collect service whereby one can place an order by phone (053) 923 3238 or online (www.staffordbutchers.ie) or email: orders@staffordbutchers.ie, before 12 noon Monday to Saturday, and collect from the shop between 3pm and 6pm. n
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Brendan’s son, Killian, is now in control of the shop business, while Brendan looks after the hand-rearing of their Angus cattle on the family’s farm in Killanne near Enniscorthy ensuring, “Our beef is literally delivered from our gate to your plate.”
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3 Rafter Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford Phone: (053) 923 3238. Email: orders@staffordbutchers.ie Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 8am to 6pm. Closed Bank Holidays.
BEST qUALITY BEEF - LAMB - PORk - POULTRY AND OUR FAMOUS BUNDLES: THE BREAkFAST PACk €15, THE FAMILY BUNDLE €30, THE FAMILY PACk €50 AND THE LARGE FAMILY BOx €100.
Like Father, Like Son!
Call in any time 8am-6pm Mon-Sat, or place your order by phone (053) 923 3238 or online www.staffordbutchers.ie or email: orders@staffordbutchers.ie before 12 noon and collect from the shop between 3pm and 6pm.
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SlaNey food & driNk Most of us are consuming more salt than the recommended 6g per day. Too much salt in the diet has links to heart disease and high blood pressure. For this reason, Aldi (among others) has been gradually reducing the level of salt in many of their own label products, whilst ensuring these products still taste great. Eating too much sugar can increase your risk of tooth decay, weight gain, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and even some cancers. Here are some top tips from Aldi to reduce salt and sugar from your diet:
SALT:
SUGAR:
Eat fresh foods – Most of the sodium we eat comes from restaurant meals and processed foods, including canned vegetables and soups, pasta sauces, lunch meats, and snack foods. If you start with unsalted, fresh foods and prepare them yourself, you can exercise better control over your sodium intake.
Give your taste buds time to adjust – If you're in the habit of having two spoonfuls of sugar in your coffee or tea, for instance, start by going to one-and-a-half for a week, then down to one.
Take care with condiments – Sodium is found in many condiments besides ordinary table salt – including soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salad dressings, ketchup, seasoned salts, pickles, and olives. Baking soda, baking powder, and monosodium glutamate (MSG) also contain sodium. Read labels – The Nutrition Facts label on packaged food lists milligrams of sodium per serving, so it's important to note how many servings the container holds.
Adapt your recipes – You can make your favourite recipes less sugary by reducing a little bit at a time – try using one-quarter less sugar than the recipe calls for, then one-third – right up until you notice the difference. Check your cereal box – If you enjoy cold cereal or instant porridge for breakfast, look at the labels and choose one with minimal added sugar. To wean yourself off your favourite cereal, try combining it with a wholegrain, high-fibre cereal, and add fruit. n
Dining out – When dining out, ask to have your food prepared with less salt. Spices – Cut back on salt by using more herbs and spices like basil, coriander, cumin, cayenne, powdered mustard, oregano, rosemary, sage, thyme, and turmeric.
Salt and sugar – tackling the terrible twins Action needed on flour tariffs to avoid bread price spike Fianna Fáil Senator Malcolm Byrne has called for urgent action to avoid tariffs on flour coming into Ireland which would result in bread prices increasing by around 9%. Senator Byrne commented, “Tariffs on flour will be very difficult for bakeries but a jump in bread prices will hit consumers hard and feed into general inflation. We need to ensure that Ireland gets a derogation on flour, as we import over 80% of the product.” He expressed his concern at the Seanad Brexit Committee which
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heard from Food Drink Ireland, the business body that represents the food and drink sector. Under Rules of Origin requirements in the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement, tariffs must be applied to imported flour unless a derogation is agreed for Ireland. The Wexford Senator added: “In the long term, there may now be a greater market for us to industrially mill flour in Ireland but we must avoid the immediate threat to bread prices by avoiding the imposition of flour tariffs.” Andrew and Raymond Kavanagh, two brothers from Enniscorthy, say their plan to construct a multi-million-euro,
state-of-the-art Flour Mill at Ballycarney is still going ahead. The proposed mill will process 300 tonnes of wheat daily to produce 235 tonnes of plain white every day. The new facility could lead to 30 new jobs for Enniscorthy once operational and is expected to create around 200 jobs during the construction phase of the project which could commence as early as the middle of 2021. See: https://www.independent.ie/business/ farming/agri-business/flour-power-meetthe-cereal-growers-driving-a-25m-flourmill-project-37634153.html n
Award-winning Wexford Chef, Tony Carty, now has his own range of artisan breads and dressings on sale at selected outlets in Wexford.
Tony C’s fresh artisan bread from the oven is delivered to the following selected outlets: Kate’s Farm Shop | Flanagans Centra, Castlebridge | Hanrahans, Piercestown Boggans, Wexford | The Green Corner, Church Lane Car Park. Select from: Guinness Bread, Walnut & Cinnamon, Farmhouse Brown, Semi Dried Tomato & Basil. And keep an eye out for Tony’s famous dressings: WEXFORD RASPBERRY, SMOKEY WHOLEGRAIN MUSTARD & HONEY, BLOOD ORANGE & BALSAMIC. Check out Tony’s Facebook page here for updates. n
EGG-CEPTIONAL BENEFITS Protein – Eggs are high in protein; two eggs provide an average man with half of his daily protein requirement. It is the best form of protein important for muscle growth and maintenance. Calories - An average egg contains about 70kcal and 6g protein making it a great choice for those watching their weight. Vitamin D – We don’t get enough Vitamin D in Ireland – 2 eggs give you a third of what you need in a day. Vitamin B12 – Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient for nerve function. Two eggs provide you with all you need in a day. Minerals – Two eggs provide as much iron as 100g of spinach. They also contain over a third of your daily requirement of selenium and iodine needed for healthy thyroid function and immunity.
The Village at Wheelocks, Finchogue, Enniscorthy,
reopened its Takeaway service on Friday 5th of March. To keep up to date with opening hours, menus, etc: Check out Wheelock’s Facebook page here Or phone: 053 92 01900.
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Celebrating 30 years of Cooney’s cakes and bread
The latest addition to Enniscorthy’s burgeoning coffee takeaway scene... The Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy opened its new
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS!
Riverside Coffee Hub on Saturday 6th March. It serves: Takeaway Coffees and Teas � Scones with jam and cream Gourmet Toasted Sandwiches � Tray Bakes � Crepes � Waffles and Lots More.
Mervyn and Cathy Cooney are celebrating 30 years in business in their famous Cooney’s Bakery shop in Court Street, Enniscorthy. The successful pair also operate the welcoming ‘My Cafe’ coffee shop on Rafter Street, as well as a bread and cake production facility on the Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy.
Located outside the hotel, opposite the playground, open 9am–5pm daily.
Hospitality sector seeks clear roadmap ➤ ‘New Living with Covid Plan doesn’t give Restaurants or Hospitality a clear road map to reopening with specific dates and metrics.’
Adrian Cummins, CEO of the Restaurants Association of Ireland.
➤ ’Government must now provide meaningful and appropriate financial supports for the survival of restaurants and hospitality businesses.’ ➤ ’150,000 Hospitality workers require certainty regarding their jobs and when they can return to work.’
The Restaurants Association of Ireland is extremely disappointed that there is not a clear road map to reopening restaurants and the hospitality sector with specific dates and metrics.
ceptable that no clear path to reopen has been outlined and no information given on what metrics will now be used to determine reopening dates for restaurants and hospitality.
The Association says the existing supports do not go far enough and that it is unac-
Adrian Cummins, the CEO of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said:
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“The sector has been closed almost a year now and has complied with restrictions and lockdowns preventing businesses and employees from being able to work and to earn a living. They are now tiring and running out of money and in need of sight of the end goal.” He continued: “If we are all in this together why are we – the public, businesses and employees not being informed of the plan for reopening sectors? What metrics are being used, be they vaccinated people, hospital admissions, the R number? What do we all, as a society need to work towards to safely reopen again? Until that day what meaningful supports will be offered to businesses who simply cannot trade and are keeping banks and landlords at bay?” n
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Slimming World Groups Groups running every Wednesday evening and every Saturday morning Providing you with a service no matter what the covid restrictions are New Members Welcome Enniscorthy Slimming World Group Leader Tony McCann certainly knows from experience how Slimming World can help you succeed on on a weight-loss journey. Tony himself has lost five stone (32 kilos) and now he can help you achieve your own weight-loss goals while still enjoying lots of tasty food like in the recipe below.
Call Tony on 087 1785384 Click here to check out our Facebook page
Call Tony now on 087-1785384 – he’s still providing a service while adhering fully to Covid restrictions. Click here to check out Tony’s Facebook page
Leading the way to weight loss curried chicken and cauliflower 1 large cauliflower, broken into florets
Roasting Speed vegetables like cauliflower and tomatoes concentrates their flavours, making them perfect partners for tender chicken thighs. 2 tbsp tikka curry powder*
serves 4
Free
s
ready in 45 minutes
8 skinless and boneless chicken thighs (or see tip)
*Shop-bought spice mixes/ blends are Free as long as they’re only made from herbs and spices and don’t include any Synned ingredients like sugar, flour and oil. Check the label to be sure.
other five Find this and more than 60 ing ingredient recipes in Slimm World’s Take 5 recipe book, the video watch can You 7.95. £4.95/€ g Slimmin other of plenty for this and e channel World recipes on our YouTub ld at youtube.com /slimmingwor
400g red and yellow cherry tomatoes, halved
Preheat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6. Cook the cauliflower florets in a saucepan of boiling water over a high heat for 5 minutes or until just tender. Drain well. Meanwhile, mix the curry powder and 3 tbsp water in a shallow dish to make a smooth paste. Make a few slashes in each chicken thigh, add to the paste and toss to coat evenly. Arrange the chicken thighs in a large roasting tin sprayed with low-calorie cooking spray. Toss the cauliflower with any remaining curry paste to coat the florets lightly and add to the tin around the chicken thighs. Season lightly, spray with low-calorie cooking spray and roast for 10 minutes. Scatter over the tomatoes and cook for a further 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Just before the end of the cooking time, place the spinach in a large colander over the sink and wilt it by pouring over a kettle of boiling water. Drain well, add to the chicken and cauliflower and serve hot.
Squeeze another 4 skinless chicken thighs into your roasting tin if it’s big enough! 200g baby leaf spinach
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Comhairle Contae
053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2021 Call for Expression of Interest – Deadline extended until Friday 26th March The deadline for receipt of applications under the ‘Preliminary Call for Expressions of Interest’ has been extended until 5.00pm on Friday 26th March. The extension is designed to assist any groups who may be encountering difficulties finalising their applications due to COVID-related restrictions.
Preliminary Call for Expressions of Interest Wexford County Council is seeking ideas in respect of projects which physically improve and/or increase the economic potential of towns and villages, in anticipation of the launch of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2021. We are asking community groups across the county to bring forward details of any project which the Council could consider for submission to the Department of Rural and Community Development.
The closing date for applications has been extended until Friday 26th March 2021. Your submission should include the following:
While the 2021 scheme and its criteria has yet to be announced, Wexford County Council at this stage, is trying to ascertain the potential level of interest and the nature of any proposed projects that may be eligible for the scheme.
• Name and contact details for your community group
For guidance, we recommend that the qualifying conditions and terms of the 2020 scheme should be taken into consideration when developing your proposal(s). Please refer to the 2020 Scheme Outline for more detailed information in relation to:
• Objective and / or intended outcomes for project
• • • •
• Any other details considered relevant
Application process – (section 4) Project Guidelines – (section 5) Types of activities which can be supported – (section 6) Types of activities which cannot be supported – (section 7)
The 2020 Scheme Guidelines are available here: https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/01125e-town-andvillage-renewal-scheme/ Please note that having a community plan with specific objectives in place, may strengthen an application for funding.
How to express an interest on behalf of your community? Applications may be submitted – • Online – Application form, Online EOI application and documentation – https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/community/ supports-grants-and-awards/town-and-village-renewal-scheme • By post to ‘Administrative Officer, Community Development Section, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford Town. Y35 WY93 – Marked ‘Town and Village Renewal Scheme 2021 Preliminary EOI’ • By email to community@wexfordcoco.ie
Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com
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• Map and location of project • Population of town / village • Project description • Project cost (estimate, if available) • Available support funding from applicant • Proposed project phasing, if applicable
What happens next? Wexford County Council will assess the general level of interest and will meet representatives of community groups in the coming weeks, if required, to develop ideas further or look at how applications may be strengthened.
Points to consider when identifying potential projects: • What are the key strengths of your town / village in terms of a place to live and work? • What are the changes that you would like to see in order to make your Town /Village an improved place to live, work and visit? • What projects do you think could best bring about positive change?
• Is there scope to develop opportunities and facilities that support the economic and social recovery of your Town/Village? • Is there any scope to develop opportunities and facilities for tourists.
Outside office hours call: 1890 666 777 Register on www.mapalerter.com for free text and email alerts about service disruptions in your locality
Planning app. lists available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning
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Comhairle Contae
053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Artlinks Bursaries 2021 Call for applications
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post
Waterford City & County Council in partnership with the ArtLinks partners in Carlow, Kilkenny and Wexford is pleased to announce that they are currently accepting applications for the Professional and Emerging ArtLinks Bursary Awards 2021.
Oulart Burial Ground Caretaker/Registrar
ArtLinks is a partnership of the four Local Authority Arts Offices in Carlow, Kilkenny, Waterford and Wexford and supported by the Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaíon. ArtLinks provides professional development opportunities and supports for established and emerging artists who are resident in the four partner local authority areas in the South East region. Artists must be a current member of ArtLinks to avail of these supports. You must be registered on or before 28/2/2021 to be eligible to apply for these bursaries. Email artlinks.ie@gmail.com to request a membership application form if you are a new applicant. This year the application process is online and the closing date for receipt of ArtLinks Bursary applications is Monday 15th March 2021 at 4.00pm.
Selection for this post will be by means of interview and candidates may be shortlisted based on applications submitted. A panel may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled. Qualifications, application forms and further particulars for this post are available from: Customer Service (Block F), Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. Phone 053 919 6000 or visit our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for this post is: 5.00pm on Thursday 25th March 2021. Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Please note that there will be a separate application process for the Collaboration Award for collaborative projects between ArtLinks members, details of which will be announced in March 2021. Application forms and guidelines are available to download from www.wexfordcoco.ie/arts-and-culture/grants-supports-andopportunities For all ArtLinks enquiries please contact artlinks.ie@gmail.com Follow @Artlinks.ie on Facebook and Instagram for more information and updates. ‘Tale-a-Phone Exchange’
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Wexford County Council Beachguards 2021 Applications are invited for the post of Beachguard for the resorts of Rosslare Strand, Carne, Curracloe, Ballinesker, Morriscastle, Ballymoney and Duncannon. Further particulars and application forms are available from: Reception (Block F), Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. Phone 053 919 6000 or visit our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie Closing date for receipt of completed application forms: 5.00pm on Thursday 25th March 2021. Successful applicants must be aged 18 years or over prior to appointment. Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com
Storytelling by phone for older people As part of the Government’s Keep Well campaign, Wexford Age Friendly and the Arts Office at Wexford County Council are offering older people in the county the opportunity to receive a phone call from renowned storyteller Joe Brennan. The ‘Tale-a-Phone Exchange’, will be a chance to hear one of Joe’s wonderful traditional stories in the comfort of their own home. Each Exchange, lasting 20 minutes, will be unique to the person receiving the call. Joe will have a chat with the person receiving the call first and from this he will decide on what story to tell. ‘Each call will be different and even where the same story is told, that telling will be unique to that person,’ says Joe. ‘No two tellings of a story are the same. The listener, and the circumstances of the exchange, shapes the telling of the story.’ This is a new approach to storytelling and the first time in Ireland for sharing traditional oral stories in this way. It is a great opportunity to reach people who have been isolated from so much because of the pandemic. Phone calls will commence every Wednesday from the first week in February and continue through to the 31st of March. To book a call, contact: Ann Marie Laffan, Age Friendly Programme Manager on 053-9196680
‘This Keep Well campaign is brought to you with thanks to Healthy Ireland an initiative of the Government of Ireland with funding from the Healthy Ireland Fund & the SlÆintecare fund delivered by Pobal
Outside office hours call: 1890 666 777 Register on www.mapalerter.com for free text and email alerts about service disruptions in your locality
Planning app. lists available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning
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Fundraiser in memory of Joe
Irish soccer legend, the one and only Paul McGrath, has launched a 65 Roses Team Challenge, in memory of his friend and long-time Cystic Fibrosis Ireland supporter and Slaney News columnist, Joe Doyle, who sadly passed away in January of this year. As part of his 65 Roses Team Challenge, Paul is also raffling off prizes to raise much needed funds for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. One prize is a retro O’Neill’s Irish Jersey (see photo). To be in with a chance to win any of the raffle prizes, simply donate to Paul’s Challenge using the link below or setting up your own #65RosesChallenge page! https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Paul-McGrath17
Joe Doyle – Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.
Checking up on Enniscorthy’s Primary Care Centre UK-based Primary Health Properties (PHP) is investing €12.6 million in a new primary care facility consisting of 50,000sq ft and 150 free-parking spaces at Quarrypark, Enniscorthy. Work commenced on site a couple of months ago and is making good progress. A lease agreement has been entered into with the Health Service Executive and a local GP practice (Dr Mairead Kelly) and further leases are anticipated to be agreed with Tusla (the child and
Above left: What the new centre will look like. Above right: Dr Mairead Kelly.
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family agency), and a pharmacy. Services on offer will include paediatric, disability, physio, dental, community nursing, adult mental health, etc. All services are expected to be in place for the completion of the building which is anticipated in the first quarter of 2022. This will bring PHP’s portfolio in Ireland to 18 such facilities. Dr Kelly says the new facility will offer stateof-the-art medical services for local people and will be a huge addition to medical care in Co. Wexford. n
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Rosslare’s rocketing routes
Some weeks ago Glenn Carr, General Manager of Rosslare Europort – Ireland’s Gateway to Europe – welcomed the commencement by Brittany Ferries of a further weekly service between the port and St Malo/Roscoff in Brittany, France, which began on 4th February. That new service brought to 32 – sixteen in each direction – the number of weekly direct services across all shipping operators between Rosslare Europort and the European continent, establishing Rosslare as Ireland’s number one port for direct European services. Since then, DFDS have announced a fourth ferry on the Rosslare to Dunkirk route, now bringing to 36 the number of direct services between Rosslare and the continent every week! The DFDS Ark Dania which has a capacity of 188 truck units will begin the new service on April 1st. The first month of trading in 2021 saw sensational results at Rosslare Europort. Despite the challenges of Covid 19 and the current difficulties with the UK post Brexit, overall freight traffic at the port is 45% ahead when compared to the same period last year. While UK traffic is down 49% for January, European freight is up an incredible 446% year-on-year with unprecedented demand. Commenting on the first month of trading for 2021, General Manager, Glenn Carr stated, “The demand has been phenomenal for the new and expanded services from all of our operators, and these results prove the strategic importance and potential of the port to our customers, industry and our economy. Through the significant challenges with Covid and Brexit, great credit must go to all colleagues working at the port and our shipping lines who have provided exceptional frequency and capacity between Rosslare and Europe. We will continue to work with shipping lines and Irish industry in identifying further opportunities to meet market demand.” n
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Fillip for Enniscorthy’s financial firms
The Enniscorthy and Irish staff of INDOS Financial pictured with then Minister of State and Wexford TD Michael D’Arcy.
JTC plc, a provider of fund management services listed on the London Stock Exchange, and a constituent of the FTSE 250 Index, is set to acquire INDOS Financial, which has a strong base in Enniscorthy, subject to the Financial Conduct Authority’s regulatory approval and is expected to complete by the end of March. INDOS, founded in 2012, is a specialist in the provision of depositary, environmental, social and governance (ESG) and anti-money laundering (AML) oversight services for alternative investment funds. The acquisition will see all INDOS’ 52 directors and staff in its London, Fareham and Enniscorthy offices join the institutional client services division of JTC and will become shared owners in the business. INDOS will also add to JTC’s operations in Ireland and the UK, as well as expanding the group’s Cayman offering through the provision of AML oversight services. Founder and CEO of INDOS Financial Bill Prew says the transaction has come at “a perfect time for INDOS” and will help enable the firm to continue to invest in and develop its range of services as well as the markets it operates in for the benefit of INDOS clients. “Having grown organically since 2012, we understand what it takes to create value through building long-term client
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relationships based on service quality and expertise. We share much of our cultural DNA with JTC and our common focus on clients, innovation and technology mean that we are excited by our future as part of the group,” Prew adds. Nigel Le Quesne, CEO, JTC, explains: “INDOS is a business of real quality which operates in a strategically important part of the fund services market. Having collaborated with Bill Prew and the team several times, it is clear their deep expertise, commitment to service excellence and proven ability to innovate and grow makes INDOS a great addition to the JTC platform.”
Courthouse building on Court Street which was renovated in 2019 at a cost of around €700,000. The expectation is, given its backing by IDA Ireland for the creation of 100 jobs in Enniscorthy over the next few years, that Opus will move to the new Technology Park in town when suitable office space becomes available there. n
He continues: “The transaction also adds further scale in Ireland, a priority market for the group, and the UK where our London team has more than doubled in size over the last 18 months due to client demand. We offer a warm welcome to our new colleagues and are excited to bring the benefits of the acquisition to existing JTC clients and to providing INDOS clients with an even richer suite of global services and the full backing of the JTC Group.” A second financial services business based in Enniscorthy is the global fund administrator Opus Fund Services. It is currently operating from offices in Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, but is in the process of moving to the
Opus Fund Services Regional CEO Christian Pollard speaking in 2019 at the announcement of 100 new jobs for Enniscorthy.
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The Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Wexford relaunched its Women in Business Network in November 2020 to support and empower female entrepreneurs as we navigate these uncertain times. In line with Covid-19 public health protocols, the LEO Wexford Women in Business Network is an online network for now, with free Zoom meetings monthly and a dedicated Facebook Group. “Supporting women in business is very important to us, especially now as Brexit and Covid-19 present so many challenges,” said Breege Cosgrave, senior enterprise development officer, with the Local Enterprise Office at Wexford County Council. “The Network aims to grow and support female entrepreneurship in Wexford. This is in line with one of Enterprise Ireland’s key objectives in its Action Plan for Women in Business. “The Network – both online and the Facebook Group – is a community. The ethos is of a warm, welcoming, safe environment for women in business management, the
L-R: Mary B Walsh, Larissa Feeney, Bevin Mahon, Paula Fitzsimons.
professions, and the arts, whether employees, employers, or self-employed. The aim is to exchange advice and business opportunities. The motto of the Network is as relevant as ever: We’re stronger together!” On March 25, the network will welcome jewellery designer Chupi Sweetman Durney, who built a business designing timeless heirloom jewellery from a hobby in her spare room to a multi-million-euro business selling to 67 countries around the world. Previous speakers have included Bevin Mahon, CEO of Dental Tech Group, a family business she helped to grow from four to over 35 employees. Paula Fitzsimons, the driving force behind the ACORNS that
supports early stage female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland, addressed the group in January. Larissa Feeney, founder of the award-winning Accountant Online, spoke about her journey from sole practitioner in rural Donegal to a firm of Chartered and Certified Accountants serving over 1,800 clients across Ireland and the UK. Local leading light Mary B Walsh, managing director of Ire Wel Pallets Ltd, in Wells, Gorey, has also shared her insight with the network. The free March Network meeting is on Zoom on Thursday, March 25, starting at 11.30am. Bookings for the Network can be made on LEO’s website: www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/ n
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Wexford County Council promoting the county as top investment location Liz Hore, Head of Enterprise, Wexford Local Enterprise Office
Wexford County Council has launched a new initiative in partnership with Abodoo aimed at mapping the talent and skills of those living and working in the county. The aim of the service is to develop ongoing live skills mapping for the county, aligning Wexford’s growing international business profile with the talent the county has to offer. The initiative will leverage Abodoo’s technology in order to identify the skills that exist within the county, and enable greater investment in those areas that will attract employment. The Talent Mapping Technology will provide ongoing anonymised data analysis of the skills in Wexford, for persons residing here, as well as the diaspora, and persons wishing to relocate. The data provided to the county will not include any personally identifiable information, it will capture key data points such as skills and location. Those who sign up can opt to allow employers to contact
them directly should they wish. At the launch, Councillor Ger Carthy, Chairman of Wexford Co. Council, stated: “I am delighted to see Abodoo partner with Wexford Council to support our economic strategy for jobs. We have carried out a capital investment programme to support first rate quality infrastructure to attract new investors. Equally it is important to highlight the skills talent we have available here in Co. Wexford in areas such as the financial services, medical devices, technology and green economy.” Vanessa Tierney, CEO of Abodoo, reiterated that sentiment, saying: “We are delighted to be working with the dynamic team in Wexford and to bring our skills mapping technology to them. This continues our goal to develop constructive and long-term relationships with local governments, working closely with them to help them identify the skills in their areas and to ultimately ensure that they are best placed to take advantage of the opportunities ahead in the changing economic climate.” The project sees smart working as the new normal and something which both companies and government should
fully embrace. The growing importance of digital hubs (such as those which have launched in Wexford in recent times) as a means for spurring economic growth is a testament to this fact. The initial stages of the programme of work with Wexford County Council will include an education and awareness programme on both digital and social media platforms together with a wider above-the-line advertising campaign. For more information, please visit https://www.abodoo.com/wexford And you can also follow the campaign on social media using the hashtag #LifetheWexfordway n
Graduate Mícheál Ó Drisceoil, working with Wexford County Council, uploading his skills details onto the Wexford County Council Skills Mapping website.
“I couldn’t be happier with the move. I love my work in the council working in Economic Development and the pace of life is so much better. I lived in a tiny apartment in Dublin and here I can afford so much better. Everything about the change has been great. Anyone considering the move to Wexford for work, I would really recommend it as I haven’t looked back.”
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Wexford man, Mícheál Ó Drisceoil, returned to Wexford from Dublin three years ago having worked in HR in the Civil Service in Clonskeagh.
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Rosanne is a winner with Wexford Skills Mapping Campaign Liz Hore, Head of Enterprise with Wexford County Council, was delighted to announce Rosanne Lancaster, Gorey, as the winner of Taste Wexford’s beautiful hamper which was a prize for one of the lucky people who registered their details with Wexford County Council’s new Skills Mapping website: www.abodoo.com/wexford Rosanne was delighted to be announced the winner. “I had seen the competition on Instagram and thought this was a great opportunity for me in progressing my career opportunities in Wexford, I just followed the link and registered.” Rosanne is a graphic designer based in north Wexford and when asked about the Skills Mapping Campaign she said, “I think the incentive is a really good idea; building up a database of skills for the county to help attract investment.” Speaking about the incentive Liz said, “We hope to see people really make use of the site. The more that register, the more detailed picture we can paint of the wealth of skills
the county has to offer.” In support of the initiative there is a chance to WIN another incredible Taste Wexford Hamper! Taste Wexford Hampers contain only the finest produce from Wexford’s food producers. It only takes a few minutes to submit your skills as a worker in County Wexford, and Taste Wexford Hampers contain only the finest produce from Wexford food producers.
just a couple of minutes longer to register for the new employment opportunities within Wexford. Check out the dedicated landing page: abodoo.com/wexford To WIN this incredible hamper simply REGISTER your skills and experience on the Wexford Skills Map, TAG a friend on twitter who should register their skills, and SHARE this post: “I’ve Just registered with Wexford’s Skills Mapping Project! You should too!” with the HASHTAG #LifetheWexfordWay. Make sure you don’t forget the hashtag if you want to be in with a chance to win! The aim of the new skills mapping project is to develop ongoing live skills mapping for the county, aligning Wexford’s growing international business profile with the talent the county has to offer. The initiative will leverage Abodoo’s technology in order to identify the skills that exist within the county, and enable greater investment in those areas that will attract employment. For more information please visit abodoo.com/wexford or contact Mícheál Ó Drisceoil at Wexford County Council’s Economic Development Unit Micheal.odrisceoil@wexfordcoco.ie You can also follow the campaign on social media using the hashtag #LifetheWexfordway n
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Puppy love!
Living with Lucy is the life of Riley!
Aldi has announced that award-winning TV and radio presenter Lucy Kennedy has come on board as the supermarket’s very first Pet Ambassador. Lucy and her family welcomed their puppy Riley, a Golden Labrador crossed with Springer puppy last month and she has already made her presence felt in the Kennedy family home. Lucy commented: “I take huge pride knowing that our first pet is a rescue dog, as I am passionate about supporting the amazing work that people such as Lynne from Milo’s Mission Rescue do. ‘Adopt don’t shop’ has become my mantra ever since we put our names down a year ago to adopt a puppy. Riley and I look forward to sharing our ups and downs and hopefully creating a community of like-minded people throughout the year. Over the next few months, I will be talking to pet experts who will hopefully be helping our family and Riley along the way, along with lots of other families.” Lucy’s top tips for living with a puppy:
✔ Make sure you and your family are ready for a puppy and all that it entails.
✔ Crate training is not a luxury, it’s a necessity for a dog who is ✔ ✔ ✔
living inside the house and will end up being the size of a small pony. Mind young children with the small puppy. Be prepared to have things chewed – and to quote that film, ‘let it go’. If you are overwhelmed, ask experts for help – people are so willing to help.
The first Instagram Live Q&A that Lucy will do as Aldi Pet Ambassador will be with Dog Behaviour Expert Alex Petrilli on the 24th March at 7pm. See https://www.instagram.com/lucykennedytv/ and https://www.instagram.com/aldi_ireland/ for more details. n
Rescue, rehabilitation and release Located in Courtown since 2014, snuggled just behind Courtown Adventure and Leisure Centre, Seal Rescue Ireland (SRI) is a registered charity dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick, injured and orphaned seals from around the coasts of Ireland. The seal centre comprises of six intensive care units, twelve kennels with baths and heat mats, four large nursery pools, a seal hospital, food prep kitchen, public picnic and garden area, and a visitor centre with education space and gift shop.
Walking with ‘Hershey’ at Courtown Harbour on 28th January were Nicholas Pleikys and Ele Darlelyte.
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Due to Level 5 lockdown, Seal Rescue Ireland’s Visitor Centre is closed until further notice, but behind closed doors the charity is still actively engaged in marine conservation, education, research and community outreach programmes. Since 2014, the efforts of Seal Rescue Ireland have resulted in successful rehabilitation and release of over 350 EU protected, native seals. For more information check out its website: https://www.sealrescueireland.org n
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MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9233187, 9236674. F: (053) 9236674. E: moynevet@gmail.com
VET DIARY FOR MARCH with the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
This month Joe Kavanagh looks at what dogs can bring to our lives. It’s early March, right in the thick of the Spring's work and the improvement in the weather is noticeable in both man and animals... There's something about a sunny day that gives us all a lift. It seems to have been raining pretty much since October last and combined with the lockdown it has been tough on people and on the animals too... I often say to clients that their pet isn't looking at what hairdo you have in the morning or what clothes you're wearing... they're reading the energy field and know if you're happy or sad, worried or scared. They pick up on this straight away and often this can affect them over time too. After all they are our companions and know our habits and probably our quirks too! They know soooooo much more than they've been given credit for, and people who are very close to their dogs will tell you that they seem to know almost what you're thinking. I'd have to agree with this with my own dog who seems to know almost every move I make. I call him Mac the Navigator because when we're heading out on farm calls he gets excited a couple of hundred yards before we get to the farm entrance. His usual trick is to let down the passenger window and jump out when we enter the farmer’s lane!!! At first I used to think it was just coincidence but he's done it so many times at this stage that ye know he knows! For me they are so clued in that I reckon they're way ahead of us. As I’ve written before, they use dogs to alert epileptic patients or their carers way before the actual event... What's
happening there? It's fascinating to think how they're able to do this... People sign this off as instinct but what’s instinct? These sentient beings are patiently showing us another way of how things can be done. The improvement in patients in hospitals and nursing homes is very significant and well documented when animals are introduced. They bring so much to the table that we have just taken for granted. In church and school we were taught that man has dominion over the animals implying that we can do whatever we want. What was really meant by this, in my view, was that they, just like our children, are in our care and we've to look after them... If we do tend to them with that loving attention and respect they reward us 100 fold. The evidence of how dog prices have shot up since the lockdowns started is an indication of how they help us cope in difficult times. Having read several animal communication books and listened to animal communicators speak, it’s a revelation to hear the wisdom these sentient beings bring to us. There is a great line a newspaper ad uses – 'Before you make up your mind... open it.' Opening up to a new way of thinking and living is what this last twelve months has shown a lot of people... these magical creatures are nudging us to go beyond the norm or ordinary... It’s a brave new world out there!!! n
If you have a topic you’d like Joe Kavanagh to address please email Slaney News at: slaneynews@gmail.com OPENING HOURS (6 DAYS A WEEK): 9.00am–1.00pm and 2.00pm–6.00pm Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment): Daily 9.30–10.30am, 2.30–3.30pm, 5.00–6.00pm. 24-hour, on-call, Emergency Service: (053) 9233187.
OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Full blood analysis (haematology, biochemistry) Gas anaesthetic – Digital X-rays – Ultrasound – Bioenergy Dermatological testing – Kinesiology – Prescription diets Herbal remedies – Homeopathy – Allergy testing
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The Green Light Sessions Wexford Virtual St. Patrick’s Day 2021 is a community project conceived by Cllr Leonard Kelly, Mayor of Wexford, John Michael Murphy of Seanchai Productions, and Nick Bailey of Extreme Rhythm. The events will be hosted live on Facebook, and will feature several online activities throughout St Patrick’s Day, including: “The St Patrick’s Day Shout-Out”, Don Conroy Drawings, and The Story of St Patrick, told from the historic setting of St Patrick’s Church in Wexford. However, the flagship event is “The Green Light Sessions” – an Evening Concert, recorded under strict Covid protocols in line with Government guidelines, on the main stage of the National Opera House in Wexford. Performed poignantly to an empty house, this unique video broadcast will feature leading Wexford Artists such as Peter Murphy, Rachel Grace, Corner Boy, Mark Redmond, The Frisky Gypsys, Roger McGuire, and Maca.
so we set out to bring that experience to people’s homes this year – featuring some of their favourite Wexford musicians!” This community initiative has been 100% voluntary, with the organisers, the entire production team, and the musicians themselves all giving their time and energy to bring some positivity into the community. Thanks are also due to the Arts Office at Wexford County Council, The National Opera House, and Wexford Credit Union, for their invaluable support. The concert will be broadcast live on Facebook at 7pm on St Patrick’s Night, on the Wexford Virtual St. Patrick’s Day 2021 page, and also on Youtube, at 7pm on the Wexford Virtual St. Patrick’s Day 2021 Channel. n
In the words of producer Nick Bailey, “Leonard, John Michael and myself were aware of how many people love to go out on St Patrick’s night to hear live music,
Rachel Grace
All Photos by Michael Duggan Photography. Mark Redmond
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Peter Murphy
Maca
Corner Boy
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CAROLINE GETS MOTORING Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the founder and editor of the online automotive magazine Changing Lanes and a jury member for Irish Car of the Year. Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at
www.changinglanes.ie
Peugeot e-2008 With the new car market at its most receptive point ever for electric cars, Peugeot is a brand emerging as one to watch. 2020 saw the brand launch two all new electric models here – the Peugeot e-208 and Peugeot e2008. Both are derivatives of two well very established Peugeot models in Ireland. Indeed the 2008 had developed arguably even more notoriety in the Irish market than the 208, falling into the compact crossover segment with some serious style, space and practicality. With Peugeot now developing multi energy platforms for new models that can support petrol, diesel and electric powertrains, there is a car for every lifestyle and budget. But an extended test drive in the new Peugeot e-2008
has brought me to the conclusion that electric is truly closer than you think. When you are living with a car every day, doing all your somewhat normal routines, you do start to see the other side of the coin more clearly. The Peugeot e-2008 kicks off from €31,262 in Ireland including all relevant grants and VRT relief. The similarly specced Peugeot 2008 petrol automatic starts from €28,450. So while the electric 2008 is still carrying a premium, it’s not as much as what you might think. And electricity is cheaper than petrol, as is the motor tax on this model!
range of 310 km. On our test drive over 200 km was possible though the e-2008’s range was susceptible to things like how cold it was outside and how fast I was driving. The e-2008 is available in the same three trim levels – Active, Allure and GT – as the petrol and diesel versions of the 2008 so there is no compromising on kit should you wish to buy the e-2008. Standard equipment on the e-2008 Active includes 16” alloys, automatic air conditioning with pre-heating functionality, electric and heated power folding door mirrors,
Peugeot has chosen a 50 kWh battery to power the e-2008. That gives 136 hp and a WLTP
Peugeot e-2008
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SlaNey motoriNg rear parking sensors, i-Cockpit® with 3.5” instrument panel display reversing camera, traffic sign recognition, LED headlights and foglights, automatic emergency braking and active city brake. So a very well specced car indeed. The e-2008 looks the exact same as the other models in the range but it does have a beautiful unique bodycoloured chequered flag effect grille. Similar to a petrol or diesel car, you open a flap on the rear side to access the charge ports. There is some subtle ‘e’ badging too. I like Peugeot’s strategy as there is no ‘weirdness’ to the e-2008. It’s simply just powered by an electric engine as opposed to a petrol or diesel one. Inside it’s the same switchgear from other models in the range. Great news because we also get the beautiful i-Cockpit arrangement – a digital instrument cluster with 3D effect on some of the higher trims where some of the information appears closer to you; a slick touchscreen to your left angled at the driver; and a compact steering wheel that feels so good in a compact car like the 2008. The stunning design and material finish gives the e2008 an upmarket feel that makes this car one to watch. Buyers will also love the practicality of the e2008. It can seat five though it will be more comfortable for two in the back. Yet there are
diesel and the Peugeot 2008 petrol, I can say it’s remarkable how well Peugeot has incorporated the electric ‘engine’ into the e-2008. It feels very natural and it’s only in enthusiastic cornering that you feel the extra weight on board, so agility only feels somewhat different. It’s easy to place through corners, the steering light and responsive.
decent footwells in the rear for the class of vehicle. Because the e-2008 uses a bespoke platform, there has been no compromise to the space inside the vehicle or the boot compared to other models in the range. The boot has a capacity of 360 litres, though you will need to be careful about storing your charging leads to make the most of it.
The Peugeot e-2008 can be plugged in at home most effectively using a wallbox that can be installed, with grants available of up to €600 from the SEAI. With the standard 7 kW on-board charger for Type 2 AC charging, you will get a full charge in 7.5 hours. In this way charging becomes a way of life and you can leave your home confident with a full battery charge. There is also a CCS adaptor so you can make use of fast charging at motorway stations for example. The e-2008 can charge at up to 100 kW at high speed chargers, which can give 80% charge in just 30 mins.
On the road the Peugeot e-2008 is very impressive. It’s smooth and pleasant to drive, and very refined. Power output is 136 hp and there are also driving modes – Normal, Sport and Eco – which alter things slightly behind the wheel. The e-2008 has plenty of power and it’s very responsive to the accelerator. With experience behind the wheel of both the Peugeot 2008
Peugeot has done a remarkable job with the new e-2008. The electric technology slips into this beautiful new model so seamlessly. It’s pleasant and serene to drive, and stands out for quality and design. More electric vehicles are coming to market, with plenty of competition, but the e-2008 does bring something different to the electric vehicle space. n
Peugeot e-2008 Interior
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8th March 2021 - Page 57
SlaNey motoriNg
ONE GREAT CAR, TWO GREAT CAUSES! SHELMALIERS LAUNCH WIN A LUXURY CAR DRAW
Brian Malone sitting in the stunning BMW
After a fantastic 2020, Wexford Senior County Champions Shelmaliers want you to join them in their winning ways by supporting their draw for a stunning BMW 3 Series worth over €44,000! The Wexford GAA club is delighted to launch their Luxury Car Draw. Tickets are on sale now and start at just €25 each. Find out how to buy your tickets and details of other prizes here: www.winaluxurycar.ie The funds raised will help the Shelmaliers build on years of successful investment at the club and will be used to develop an external stand, a disabled lift and a gym. Speaking at the launch, Club Chairman Myles Doyle set out the aims of the Luxury Car Draw: ‘We hope to provide facilities for our whole community to play our games, to socialise and to feel at home. Every cent we raise goes towards achieving these goals. Thank you for your support with this initiative.’ The Club is delighted to support another great cause too – the Children’s Health Foundation Crumlin. 20% of all profits from the draw will go to the Foundation to help raise vital funds to support sick children and their families. It’s a cause that is very close to the hearts of many members of the club, not least Padraig Coone, Chairman Coiste Na nÓg. In 2013 Padraig’s daughter Suzanna spent 12 weeks in Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital where she received world-class care allowing her to return home to her family healthy and happy. Commenting at the launch of the Draw, Padraig paid tribute to the
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Crumlin Foundation: ‘When we see Suzanna running around the Shelmalier GAA Grounds now loving life and getting such enjoyment from camogie, the staff in Crumlin are never far from our minds. We are very thankful and will always be indebted to them.’ Shelmaliers senior players are getting behind this great cause too by being the first club
players in Wexford to master the hit dance routine ‘The Jerusalema’. See them moving here like you’ve never seen them move before! Check it out here. Get your ticket now and make 2021 a year to remember for you, for Shelmaliers and for the Crumlin Foundation. n
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RSA child car seat checking service available online The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has announced that its child car seat checking service – ‘Check It Fits’ is now available online. The FREE online service is delivered by RSA child car seat experts and provides advice and support to parents, grandparents, guardians, and childminders on how to ensure that child car seats are fitted correctly. The ‘Check it Fits’ service moved online in response to the Covid-19 pandemic which shut down the service last year. It normally travels around the country providing free safety checks on child car seats. Now people can avail of the service, and have their child seats checked, from the comfort and safety of their home. To book a virtual appointment with one of the RSA’s child car seat experts visit: www.rsa.ie/checkitfits. Since the new online service was piloted in October, hundreds of checks have been successfully completed virtually. All you need is a phone or tablet, and the RSA experts can help you ensure your child’s car seat is correctly fitted. The online booking system for the ‘Check It Fits’ service allows members of the public to book an appointment at a date and time that suits them. During the appointment, the RSA child car seat expert will talk through the steps to check and adjust the child car seat, demonstrate aspects of the check on screen, and answer any questions. The checker reviews the installation of the child car seat in the car, so the device you use to carry out the appointment must be portable, for example a smart phone or tablet, that has a camera and internet access. Appointments take approximately 30 minutes and are carried out using the Microsoft Teams app, available for download for free from app stores.
Join Caroline Kidd every month for motoring news and reviews in the new-look Slaney News.
Car sales still sluggish New car registrations for February 2021 were up 5.30% (13,834) when compared to February 2020 (13,138). Registrations year to date are down 11% (38,986) on the same period last year (43,788). Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV) are up 51.30% (3,315) compared to February last year (2,191) and year to date are up 6.39% (8,339). HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are down 15.8% (224) in comparison to February 2020 (266). Year to date HGVs are down 9.5% (563). Used car imports for February (5,757) have seen a decrease of 7.04% on February 2020 (6,193). Year to date imports are down 1.84% (12,579) on 2020 (12,815).
RSA research from checking child car seats indicates that as many as four out of every five child car seats are either incompatible with the child’s height / weight / size or incorrectly fitted. If a child’s car seat is not fitted correctly, it could offer little protection in the event of a crash.
New electric car registrations increased for the month of February with 813 registered compared to 390 on the same month last year. While so far this year 1,791 new electric cars were registered in comparison to 1,281 on the same period last year an increase of 39.81%. Both Hybrid and Plug in Hybrid continue to increase their market share.
Visit: www.rsa.ie/checkitfits n
Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General
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commented: “From a health and safety perspective, the Industry has proven during the duration of the pandemic that showrooms can operate in a safe environment for their employees and customers. The large size of dealerships, the low average footfall, the ability to do business on a strict appointment only basis and the option of displaying cars outside lends itself to social distancing and safe retailing. Car sales are very low risk, but offer a high return to the State in terms of employment and revenue. In this context SIMI members are ready to open showrooms for business safely, but if this is not possible a move to click and collect would help the sector in the interim.” 5 Top Selling Car Brands February 2021 were: 1. Toyota 2. Hyundai 3. Volkswagen 4. Skoda 5. Ford. Top Selling Car February 2021: Hyundai Tucson. Market share by engine type 2021: Diesel 36.32%, Petrol 33.6%, Electric 4.59%, Plug-In Hybrid 4.88% and Hybrid 18.14%. County Wexford new car registrations: Jan-Feb 2020: 1118, Jan -Feb 2021: 1031, which is a 7.8% reduction. n
SlaNey leiSure
Gorey: Lights, camera, action! There has been a warm welcome locally for the granting of planning permission for the new Tara Studios development at Borleagh Manor, Inch, just north of Gorey, which will contain up to seven sound studios. The main people behind this project are Ivan Dunleavy, a former chief executive of Pinewood Studios, and John Gleeson, an accountant and one of the main arrangers of finance for film productions in both Ireland and the UK. Senator Malcolm Byrne who has been actively involved in helping the Tara Studios team with the development, said, “I am happy that planning has been granted and remain optimistic that the project will now progress and that
construction can commence later this year. “The global content creation industry is currently booming and there is a shortage of studio space. These studios could become one of the world’s leading venues. Ireland has excellent creative talent as well as being an attractive tax and financial base for film and television production.” Up to 30 direct jobs could be created at the studios, while several hundred could be employed when the studios are operating at full capacity. Local councillor Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin has also welcomed the development saying it’s a massive boost for the area. n
Borleagh Manor, Inch.
Shauna’s new song ‘For Pop’ Enniscorthy singer/songwriter Shauna Hever’s new song, For Pop, is now available on most music platforms including Apple Music, Amazon Music, Spotify and Google Play, having been released on 7th of February. Shauna wrote it for her grandad, who died in August 2019. She says: “It means so much to me and I can’t wait for you all to hear it!” Also, check out Shauna’s Facebook page ‘Shauna Hever Music’ and her impressive Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/ShaunaHever
Wexford Together – live on radio One can tune in to South East Radio every Thursday night at 8pm for a series of one-hour shows designed to lift the spirits at what is a very difficult time for many in Co. Wexford. Described by some as a cross between the Alan Corcoran and Tony Kehoe shows, the “Wexford Together” show is reaching out to engage with and entertain all members of the community, particularly those who may be experiencing loneliness, isolation or simply boredom!
In between music, chat, competitions etc., the show will highlight many of the excellent initiatives that have been organised and are taking place across County Wexford to help people stay safe, stay active and stay well at this time, with contributions from many of the organisations engaged in this work at this time. So if you know of anybody who might enjoy the show and benefit from an hour’s light entertainment, get them to tune in every Thursday night at 8pm for the next couple of months or so and enjoy all that “Wexford Together” has to offer. Those without easy access to facilities such as smartphones, online entertainment and information can be reached through the show’s format and content, and can enjoy some light entertainment also during these really challenging times. SE Radio will operate a phone-in service throughout the show where people can phone in and engage, chat, take part in competitions, play a request, and provide ideas and suggestions for inclusion in further shows.
One of those behind the radio programme initiative: David Minogue, Wexford County Secretary and Head of Communications and Customer Services.
Listeners can also seek assistance from the Community Call helpline during the show, with these calls being immediately passed to the Wexford Community Call Helpline (053-9196000, 8am-8pm, 7 days) for attention. So spread the word and tune in Thursday nights and enjoy some entertainment and an hour’s break from everything that’s going on around us. n
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A Glorious
A fashion series
When I was growing up, and that wasn’t today or yesterday, you may say, Easter was a time of change, a time of rebirth, not just in the religious sense but also in the fashion world as Easter Sunday morning, come hail or shine, we cast off the dreary winter tights and dull colours to don our pristine, brilliant white ankle socks and our brand new sandals, usually patent, and put on a summer dress to head to 10oc Mass in the Cathedral. Well, strangely enough, not a lot seems to have changed in all those intervening years, as Easter is apparently still the official beginning of the spring, summer fashion season. Time to shed the heavy layers and subdued neutrals and look for freshness and colour in your wardrobe, and if the many and varied videos that our local fashion houses have been busy circulating on social media are anything to go by, then prepare your senses to be assaulted by splashes of colour as jackets, tops, dresses and pants come in all the shades of the rainbow from the vivid to the more sedate.
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I particularly like the Dolcezza range, tops, dresses and jackets taking their inspiration from pieces of art telling the most creative and unique stories. Florals for Easter may not be revolutionary but it is the perfect time to break out your most feminine floral dress and flaunt it with a denim jacket. Navy and white has always been another very popular choice at Easter and again I would sing the praises of the plain navy jacket (and everyone has one in their wardrobe) with a brilliant white tee shirt teamed with either a pair of denim or white jeans with a pop of red in either bag, shoes or scarf, or you could throw caution to wind and go for all three. Yellow is a popular choice for summer 2021 and is also
SlaNey leiSure
Obsession
by Maria Nolan
a colour synonymous with Easter, team it with navy, white or royal blue, Easter is the ideal time to play with colour, so don’t be afraid to make a statement. With a little bit of luck we will be preparing to emerge from the shackles of lockdown so let’s make it a bit of a positive explosion of style blended with fun and vibrancy. Go for something bold and striking either in colour or structure and then pare it back with subdued accessories, lime green, royal blue and burnt orange are all shades of this summer season.
Maria Nolan
Although Easter bonnets may be a thing of the past, hats have been very much on trend over the winter months and I think will continue to be for the summer season taking the form of bucket hats to shield us from the dangerous rays of the sun we hope to get and peaked versions to add that little something extra to our sport and leisure wear. We may not be going places yet but we can certainly brighten and enhance the places we’re at. – Maria Nolan
Yes, Easter is a time of rebirth and renewal so take a look at what you have in your wardrobe over the next couple of weeks and see what you need to add to bring what you already have back to life and make it pop and sizzle and on trend for 2021.
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Wexford is producing Ireland’s fittest families! With the Hogan family from Enniscorthy finishing second in last year’s competition, and two Wexford families in the top three this year, it looks like Co. Wexford is producing Ireland’s fittest families!
Above: Ireland’s Fittest Family – the Mahoneys. Below: Ireland’s third fittest family: The Cullens.
Congratulations to the Mahoney family (Glynn-Barntown) on winning this year’s gruelling competition and the €15,000 first prize, and to the Cullen family (Blackwater) on finishing third. The Mahoneys (Joanne, Kevin, Conor and Alan) are well known in GAA and gynmnastics circles, while the Cullens (Thomas, Paddy, James, Katie) are well known in the fields of GAA, boxing and horse-riding. n
‘Glow in the Dark’ feature for new greenway? Wexford Bicycle User Group (WexBUG) is leading the drive to have a section of the planned New Ross to Waterford Greenway made to ‘glow in the dark’ and they would love our readers to Phil Skelton, founder sign the online and Chairperson of WexBUG petition (link below). This spectacular effect would help put the new greenway on the map. The accompanying image is from a greenway in Poland, and several other countries have achieved this ‘glow in the dark’ effect also. Click here to sign the petition n
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Music News from Co. Wexford
Congratulations to Wexford singer-songwriter Imelda Kehoe who recently signed with UK record label Thoroughbred Music and will release her new album within a matter of weeks. View Imelda’s acoustic live studio version of Ordinary Star here.
Enniscorthy-based singer-songwriter Hallie has released her second single Waves to much acclaim and airplay. Congrats to local duo The Remedy Club who recently performed on the RTE Today show with Dáithí & Sinéad, and had their song Sweet Symphony (video here) included in the February hottest tracks in the The Sunday Times.
Watch the video here.
Best wishes to New Ross singer-songwriter (and well known local journalist) Brendan Keane with his new album 'Dreaming in Parallel' which will be released around July this year. Click here for a sample track.
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DAFFODIL DAY FRIDAY MARCH 26 The Irish Cancer Society is appealing for the people of Wexford to support the most important Daffodil Day ever as street sales and community events are cancelled for the second year running due to Covid-19 restrictions. Due to the current public health restrictions the flagship fundraiser is unable to go ahead in its traditional way with street sales of fresh daffodils or daffodil pins, and community events. However, there are still many ways for people in Wexford to get involved with this year’s Daffodil Day which is taking place on Friday March 26, proudly supported by Boots Ireland. Around 1045 people in Wexford will receive a cancer diagnosis each year and this Daffodil Day is an important chance not only to raise vital funds for services and research but also to send people affected by cancer a message of support in these challenging times. There are many ways for communities across the country to get involved with Daffodil Day, by hosting virtual fundraisers and collections, purchasing items from the Daffodil Day online shop, or making a donation. Go to cancer.ie/daffodil day to find out more. Throughout the pandemic, the Irish Cancer Society has continued to provide
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vital services and support to cancer patients and their families across Wexford. Services like Night Nursing, the Freephone Support Line: 1800 200 700 and Volunteer Driver service are available because of the vital funds raised on Daffodil Day. Rosemary Simmons, Fundraising Lead at the Irish Cancer Society said, “The people of Wexford have always been incredibly generous in their support of Daffodil Day, but this year more than ever, we need your help. Although we
cannot take to the streets to sell Daffodils, or host coffee mornings with friends, there are still so many meaningful ways for communities to raise vital funds this year. Because of the additional anxieties a cancer diagnosis during Covid-19 brings, cancer patients need your support more than ever before. Please get involved with Daffodil Day, to ensure nobody in Wexford has to go through cancer alone.” This year marks Boots Ireland’s 4th year of sponsoring Daffodil Day, which is an extension of a well-established partnership with the Irish Cancer Society that began back in 2012. Through the partnership, Boots Ireland is committed to increasing awareness, helping support people affected by cancer and promoting cancer prevention. Boots’ 89 stores, located nationwide, will be raising vital funds by selling Daffodil pins in store and hosting virtual fundraisers across the country. To find your nearest store or to learn more about the support of Daffodil Day, visit www.boots.ie If you have concerns or questions about cancer, or to learn more about support services available in your area, contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line on Freephone:1800 200 700 For more information visit www.cancer.ie/daffodilday n
SlaNey Sport
Wexford GAA launches strategic plan Amid the challenges and rigours of Covid-19, Wexford GAA has managed to launch a 5-Year Strategic Plan titled Ar Aghaidh Linn Le Cheile (Onwards Together). Speaking at the virtual launch on 1st March, County Chairman Micheál Martin said, ‘This plan will be the most ambitious plan ever launched in the history of Wexford GAA. The ground work has been laid over the past four years and we are now in a position where we can confidently set out our vision for the decade ahead, across a number of areas and covering a broad spectrum.’ The Plan is detailed and will be closely governed by being an agenda item at all County Board meetings. Headline Targets of the Plan include: Increase in the number of Games Promotion Officers (GPOs), to work with children and coaches to ensure that every child plays and participates (since 2017 participation rates of 6-11 year olds has increased by 25%). VIP Very Important Player Programme – 500 children per year will participate in the VIP Programme, which offers a quality sporting experience to children with special needs, who may otherwise find it difficult to successfully participate on mainstream sports teams. Develop a unique Centre of Excellence and Inclusion at Ferns, with pitches for both male and female
Pictured at the launch in Chadwicks Wexford Park are: L to R: Shane Roche (Wexford Senior Football Manager), Micheál Martin (Chairman, Wexford GAA) and Matthew O’Hanlon (Wexford Senior Hurling Captain).
teams and a Sensory Garden to act as a hub for the VIP Programme. Expand Wellness Programme to over 1,000 children per year and increase the Community Wellness Programme which is held every May. Establish a Development Programme to cater for the holistic development of our best and most promising young players 17-21, to deliver a structure to ensure that we consistently challenge for top honours in the coming decade. The Programme will be supported by a High Performance Committee with the best sporting minds in County Wexford, including Billy Walsh (Team USA Boxing), Ciaran Deely (QPR FC), Declan Browne (IT Carlow), among others.
KILMORE UNITED FC RECEIVES TEXACO SPORT FUNDING Kilmore United FC is to receive €5,000 funding under the Texaco Support for Sport initiative launched by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited, the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand. Open to sports clubs across the 26-counties, the initiative saw a fund of €130,000 being made available by Valero for distribution in equal amounts of €5,000 to successful applicants chosen on a county-by-county basis. Kilmore United has a 190-strong membership and fields two men's teams, six underage teams, and one women’s team. The club is based at Abby Troy Park, named in memory of one of its young female members who passed away suddenly in 2017 at the very young age of 16 years. The €5,000 award made to Kilmore United will be used to complete the development of their grounds in her name and fund efforts to attract more young women and girls to participate in sport. n
‘Achieving targets will require an investment of €5 million over the 5 years,’ Micheál Martin continued, ‘and a Cairde Loch Garman Premium Programme will be launched to help us attain our vision of transformational change within Wexford GAA and within every community in our County.’ Micheál went on to thank former newsreader and Wexford Ambassador Anne Doyle for very kindly doing the voice-over for the Centre of Excellence video, saying that the Ferns lady is always more than willing to do her bit for Wexford GAA. For more information on how you can join the journey with Cairde Loch Garman see http://www.wexfordgaa.ie/ cairde-loch-garman/ – Maria Nolan
Rapparees/Starlights News The club would like to extend its heartiest congratulations to Starlight goalkeeper Pa Doyle on being named Footballer of the Year at the recent Cairde Loch Garman Awards Night and Ricky Fox for Football Score of the Year for that most impudent of points in the closing stages of the Championship and to those who made the Football Team of the Year: Pa Doyle, Rory O’Connor, James Peare, Nick Doyle, Liam Ryan, Alan Tobin and Kevin Foley, you continue to make your club proud. The Club weekly Lotto will resume Online from 15th March with a Jackpot of €15,000. You can follow the draw live each week on the club Facebook Page. Please support your club by purchasing a ticket for the draw. – Maria Nolan
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Wexford Teams of the Year named
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SlaNey Sport
Wexford firm supporting Wexford team
Greg Browne, Managing Director of Wexford security experts, Darlex Risk Management, showing his support for local sports by sponsoring North End United in Wexford. Greg, who is Wexford born and bred, is a major advocate for shopping local and supporting local services. Greg is delighted at how the 2021 kit turned out: “It looks absolutely amazing” he says,“The very best of luck to North End United Sky Blues for the season, we will be keeping an eye on your performance in the league and hope to see you lifting trophies.”
Greyhound Track news The Future Champion and Michael Fortune Memorial Stake starts Monday 15th March. Prizemoney pool €14,500. Please contact the racing office for further information (053) 923 3172 enniscorthy.track@gmail.com
Wexford race meetings Wexford Race Meetings for 2021 are scheduled for the following dates: Wed 10th March, Fri 9th April (e), Sat 15th May, Fri 21st May (e) Wed 2nd June, Wed 16th June (e) Fri 2nd July (e), Fri 6th August (e) Sat 4th September, Sun 24th October Mon 25th October (e) denotes Evening Meet. http://www.wexfordraces.ie
‘Huzz’ calls it a day Kieran Hurrell has made the decision to move on from head coach of Enniscorthy Rugby Club, saying, ‘I wanted to let the club know as early as possible to ensure there is time for them to find a replacement ahead of the 2021/22 season.’ Kieran’s time at Enniscorthy has been incredibly successful. ‘My four years coaching in ‘Scorthy have been the most challenging, enjoyable and rewarding of my time as a coach. I believe a club is only as good as the people in it and I have seen examples of this in all areas in my time with the club. ‘My personal goal was to ensure when I left the club I did so having helped futureproof the home grown ethos of the club and support the development of the youth players progression into the senior squad. I am proud that there have been many young players progress through in the past four seasons. ‘A massive thanks to the club committee coaching group and supporters for giving me the freedom to change things, to back my decisions and support the wider goals of the group. ‘Finally to the players, thanks for your commitment over the last four seasons. The hard work that drives the success of the club on the pitch is largely unseen and as a consequence somewhat unappreciated.
Kieran Hurrell ‘Thank you from me for all of the work you have done to help the club’s progress in my time with the club and beyond. ‘I look forward to remaining a club member and supporting the team in the years to come and look forward to continued success and enjoyment long into the future.’ Club Chairman Paul McCrea said, ‘I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for all the work and input, together with other coaches, that has been put into Enniscorthy’s on-field success and development over the last few years. No doubt this journey has enriched everyone involved with the club with a hunger for the recommencement of rugby for players and supporters alike.’ n
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Co. Wexford – Parish by Parish Two new volumes of the publication On Our Own Ground: County Wexford Parish by Parish were launched by Oulart man, Dr. Patrick Prendergast, Provost, Trinity College Dublin, on 28th January. This three-volume series, written and compiled by Dr Ned Culleton, with contributing editor Celestine Murphy, is a standout publication that details the built and natural heritage of County Wexford through the centuries. It is beautifully illustrated with colour photography, drawings and maps to complement the detailed text. On Our Own Ground provides researchers and local people with a record of the landscape, archaeological sites, industrial, commercial and domestic buildings, and other man-made objects that dot the Wexford countryside. The books showcase the impact man has made on the landscape and his contribution to the heritage of our localities. As many people are most interested in the heritage of their own areas, the parish and townland are the basis for this book’s design. The parish is ‘our own ground’ – the one area we know best, to which we belong, where who we are matters. It is the place where every field, stream, hill and valley is known and is part of our lives. The parishes referenced in On Our Own Ground are the modern Catholic parishes and parts of parishes that lie within the Co. Wexford boundary. As Dr Culleton notes in the introduction, the use of the Catholic parish unit, as a vehicle for conveying information, is based on practical considerations of useful geographic size, local familiarity with the landscape, and on community and sporting allegiances within each area. Parish by parish, On Our Own Ground gives brief descriptions on all significant man-made and natural places of interest in the county. A guide to sources is listed at the end of each parish section for those who wish to do further research. One crucial addition is the inclusion of clear mapping references, to pinpoint each site with precision. Within the parish, the townland, the smallest administrative territorial unit in the county, provides the most intimate connection between the landscape and its people. The townlands system is of Gaelic origin, many pre date the Norman invasion, although their number, boundaries and names have been considerably altered over time. Some townland names still bear the family name of the early occupiers of the land, for example, Volume 1 Adamstown Arklow (part of) Ballindaggin Ballycullane Ballygarrett Ballymore Bannow Blackwater Bree Bunclody (part of) Camolin Carnew (part of) Castletown (part of) Castlebridge Clonard Clonegal (part of) Clongeen Cloughbawn Craanford Crossabeg Cushinstown Davidstown Duncannon
Volume 2 Enniscorthy, St Aidan’s Enniscorthy, St Senan’s Ferns Glynn Gorey Horeswood Kilanerin Kilaveney (part of) Kilmore Kilmuckridge Kilrane Kilrush Marshalstown Monageer Newbawn
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Volume3 New Ross Oulart Our Lady’s Island Oylegate Piercestown Ramsgrange Rathangan Rathnure Riverchapel St Mullin’s (part of) Taghmon Tagoat Templetown Wexford Town
‘On Our Own Ground: County Wexford Parish by Parish’, Volumes 1, 2 and 3 can be ordered online from selected bookshops nationwide and is also available from various bookshops in Co. Wexford, price €30 each.
Ballybrennan translates as ‘the place of Ó Braonáin’. It is through this historical interaction between the landscape and its people that the modern countryside, with its rich legacy of archaeological monuments, has evolved. Within County Wexford there are forty-five parishes and seven parts of parishes from bordering counties, and almost 3,000 townlands. Volume two and three, complete the threevolume series. A cumulative index has been added to volume three. CONTRIBUTORS: Dr Ned Culleton, a native of Piercestown, is a graduate of NUI Maynooth and of Trinity College Dublin. A former soils scientist with Johnstown Castle, university lecturer and EU research manager in Brussels, Dr. Culleton is the author of several books, including Wexford’s Industrial Potential, The South Wexford Landscape and Celtic and Early Christian Wexford. Celestine Murphy, the series editor and co-author of volume three, is a local historian and retired librarian with Wexford County Council Library Service. The production of these volumes was project managed by librarians Hazel Percival and Susan Kelly and with the Geomapping coordinated by Catherine Kavanagh, Head of Information Services, Wexford County Council and her team. Wexford County Council won the 'Supporting Active Communities’ 2014 award at the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards for the first volume of this publication. The judges said that the Wexford project was meticulous in its detail and inclusive of all communities across County Wexford. It offered a model that could be replicated countrywide to create a national record of major importance. n
SlaNey hiStory
‘The Boxwells of Butlerstown Castle’ is available at School and Office Supplies, Selskar, Wexford, and from Anna Skrine- Brunton at Butlerstown House Tel: 053 91 35506.
Launching her memoir and family history, ‘The Boxwells of Butlerstown Castle’, in centre is author Helen Skrine, née Boxwell, aged 94, former president of Wexford Historical Society, and her daughter Anna SkrineBrunton, researcher, editor and developer of the book. On left is her grandson Jack Skrine-Brunton and on right are her friends, Eithne Scallan and Jim Kelly, with Butlerstown Castle in the background.
e h t s l l e t , l l e w x o B e é n e n i r k S Helen y l i m a f h s i r I o l g story of her An The story of one of County Wexford’s most prominent Anglo-Irish families for more than 400 years, is the subject of a new memoir titled The Boxwells of Butlerstown Castle which recently featured on the RTÉ One television programme Nationwide and which may be viewed now on the RTE Player. Helen Skrine, née Boxwell, aged 94, who was seen on the programme by hundreds of thousands of viewers giving a rousing rendition of Boolavogue on her piano, wrote the book over a period of 30 years before she gave it to her daughter Anna Skrine-Brunton for final research and editing and having it published earlier this year. The book gives an account of how her ancestors came to the 15th century Butlerstown Castle, Tomhaggard, Co. Wexford, from Wooton Bassett in Wiltshire, England in the 1600s. Beside the castle is her home, Butlerstown House, where she was born “a Wexford woman”. Helen Skrine tells of how the Boxwells settled in the Forth and Bargy baronies of Wexford and from there went across the world and influenced social, political, economic and cultural change everywhere they went. The Harvey, Skrine, Stokes and St Leger Doneraile families are part of that lineage. Although they came mainly from England, Helen says: “We’re probably as Irish as anybody else in Ireland”. Her extended ancestral families and connections lived at the castles at Ballycogley, Bargy, Ballyteigue, Butlerstown and Lingstown. She tells in descriptive, colourful, and entertaining prose about her great and sometimes sad and oftentimes funny experiences and the history of her family in the 1798 Rebellion, the War of Independence of 100 years ago, Word War II and the bleak 1950s living in a big house beside the historic Butlerstown Castle on its 100-acre farm. She combines her experiences with her interpre-
tation of Ireland and Irish history. Amongst the most prominent people of her ancestry is Beauchamp Bagenal Harvey of nearby Bargy Castle, who was commander-in-chief of the rebel forces in the 1798 Rebellion. He was wounded at the Battle of Ross but was found at the Saltee Islands and was hanged by the English forces at Wexford Bridge. There is also a strong medical tradition in her family including Dr William Boxwell (1875–1943), President of the Royal Irish College of Physicians in 1939, who treated Countess Markievicz during the 1916 Rebellion. Helen Skrine’s connections also extend to Oscar Wilde, whose mother was Jane Francesca Elgee the poet “Speranza”, from Wexford town and whose father John was rector at St. Iberius Church, Robert McClure, the Arctic explorer, and the St Legers of Doneraile Co. Cork who founded the horse race of the same name. Helen Skrine grew up in Butlerstown House but spent much of her life in London with the BBC and later in Malaya, India, where she lived with her late husband John Skrine, a lawyer there. Her daughter Anna Skrine-Brunton, editor of the book, started life in Malaysia, and then came to Dublin, London and Wales before returning to Butlerstown. She attended the Royal Academy of Music in London, and then worked in the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and later for the Spitalfields Trust, saving Georgian houses on the edge of The City of London. She now lives at Butlerstown with her husband Jim, a master builder, and her son Jack. Her eldest son Jonathan is in Wales. With some friends she set up a Centre for Natural Therapies in Wexford about 20 years ago, working there as a nutritionist. She continues that work in the Only Natural health food shop in Wexford town. She is currently chairperson of the Wexford Festival Singers choir, and has recently been setting classic Irish poems to music. n
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SlaNey hiStory
Fr Peter Whelan – the unknown story Fr Peter Whelan
bishop before beginning his duties in communities throughout North Carolina. His zeal played a key role in the erection of the capital city's first Catholic church. Although Whelan occasionally visited Georgia, it was not until February 21, 1837, that he became pastor of the Church of the Purification of the Most Pure Heart of Mary at Locust Grove, which is near modern-day Sharon, Georgia. He spent nineteen years in this small parish, which was the first planned, Catholic community in the state.
Fr. Peter Whelan – a Wexford native – and a man who played a very unique role in the American Civil War – was publicly remembered in Savannah, USA, on 6th February 2021, on the 150th Anniversary of his death. With the US, Irish, and Wexford flags behind him, Monsignor William Oliver O’Neill delivered a compelling address at Fr Whelan’s grave within the priests’ section of the Catholic Cemetery, Savannah. A detailed account by Howard Keeley PhD, Director, Irish Research & Teaching at Georgia Southern University, can be read here: https://www.irishgeorgia.com/whelan
In all, he served in the diocese of Charleston and Savannah from 1837 until his death from lung disease in 1871, and twice served as administrator of the entire diocese. His funeral was the largest that the city of Savannah had seen up to that time. Eighty-six carriages and buggies escorted the body through the crowded avenues to the Catholic cemetery. People from all over the city turned out to bid farewell to this beloved priest, including many nonCatholics. The Savannah Morning News newspaper editorial said: ‘And so has passed away an honest man, a sincere Christian, an exemplary Priest of the
Church, and a devoted patriot, who had not an enemy upon all the earth, but who counted his friends by thousands.’ One of Fr Whelan’s most noteworthy and distinguished contributions was as a chaplain for both Confederate troops and Union prisoners of war during the American Civil War. He initially ministered to Confederate troops including the Montgomery Guards, an Irish company established in Savannah for the First Georgia Volunteer Regiment. He remained with them during the Union siege of Fort Pulaski which guarded Savannah harbour, and volunteered to remain with them during their imprisonment in New York in 1862. About a year after his release in a prisoner exchange, he was assigned to minister to the Union prisoners-of-war held at Andersonville, Georgia, where he became known as the ‘Angel of Andersonville’. He was a man who was willing to rise above the political, social, racial and religious barriers of his day in order to preserve the dignity of each human person. His remarkable story is told in a number of videos available on YouTube n
Fr Whelan’s story is one of significance in terms of Irish American ecclesiastical, political and cultural life. He was born in 1802 in Loughnageer, Foulkesmills (parish of Clongeen), in Co. Wexford. Little is known about his early life. From 1822 to 1824 he attended Birchfield College in Kilkenny, where he received a classical and mathematical education before going to America. Whelan heard about an appeal for priests made by John England, the popular and dynamic bishop of the new diocese of Charleston, South Carolina. Whelan was ordained in Charleston on November 21, 1830. For the next two years he served as secretary to the
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Historic marker for Fr Peter Whelan in Andersonville, Georgia.
SlaNey heritage
Bringing it back into use... The second meeting of the Heritage sub-committee of the Borough District of Wexford took place in February with the Director of Services, Wexford County Council, in attendance at the request of Cllr Leonard Kelly, Mayor of Wexford, to give an update in relation to the Westgate Heritage Centre/An Tobar. Cllr Kelly believes, ‘This building has massive potential to be the centre point for heritage promotion in our town. One of my priorities since becoming a councillor has been the reopening of the building to aid this promotion.’ The Director of Services has restated his commitment to upgrading the building and bringing it back into use after Covid-19 restrictions are lifted. The Heritage committee will meet again later this month to discuss what this usage might be. Councillor Leonard Kelly, Mayor of Wexford.
Cllr Kelly also said, ‘I requested a possible rebranding/renaming of the building which the Director has agreed to. Any agreed name (at the committee level) will be brought to the following District Council Meeting for approval.’ n
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Leading by example! Planning process made easy Johnny Mythen TD (right) with his father, Jim, and Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald.
Wexford TD, Johnny Mythen, is once again handing back his pay rise, saying, ‘It is our frontline workers that deserve a pay rise and not us. As with last year’s pay rise of €9,443.85 I will not be accepting it this year either.’
TIME TO HAVE YOUR SAY!
A new series of online planning information leaflets will help put the citizen back into the heart of the planning process, local Fine Gael TD, Paul Kehoe, has said. The new leaflets contain practical, accessible information on how the planning system works and explain how best to engage with it. Deputy Kehoe said: “Proper planning across our communities transforms lives. It is a complex process but the key ingredient is engagement and collaboration with local residents. “To put the citizen Paul back into the heart of Kehoe the planning process TD first takes proper knowledge, information and awareness raising. “These leaflets are a small but crucial step in the work of the Office of the Planning Regulator established by government to, amongst other things, enhance public awareness of the benefits of planning and its role in shaping communities for the common good. “These leaflets replace ones published back in the 1990s and will be an invaluable tool for the householder thinking of improving their home, the business person in developing their premises or anyone who wants to know more about planning and the key role they can play in it.” n The leaflets are entitled: ➤ Introducing the Planning System ➤ A Guide to the Introducing Development Plan the Planning ➤ A Guide to Planning System Permission ➤ A Guide to Making a Planning Application ➤ A Guide to Making a Planning Appeal ➤ A Guide to Planning Enforcement in Ireland ➤ A Guide to Applying for Planning Permission to Build a House ➤ A Guide to Doing Work Around the House ➤ Agricultural and Farm Development – The Planning Issues ➤ A Guide to Planning for the Business Person ➤ Environmental Assessments and Planning in Ireland ➤ A Guide to Architectural Heritage ➤ Archaeology in the Planning Process ➤ Strategic Infrastructure Development.
Planning Leaflet
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Communityviews1
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The leaflets are available at www.opr.ie/planning-leaflets/ They will also be made available on the websites of local authorities, libraries, and citizen information centres. n
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Wexford’s Community Intervention Team is now operational Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has welcomed news that Co. Wexford’s Community Intervention team is now operational. Community Intervention Teams are specialist healthcare teams that provide urgent care to patients who need help in their home, in nursing homes, or elsewhere in the community. Wexford’s CIT commenced its services on 17th February 2021. Minister Browne commented, “I am delighted that my repeated representations on the need for a County Wexford Community Intervention Team have resulted in its establishment.
“Community Intervention Teams ensure that people in need of specialist medical care can receive treatment in their home, residential setting or other locations in our community. The teams shorten hospital stays, create more space in our hospitals, and allow people to recover in the more comfortable familiar surroundings of their own home. “Now that the new Wexford Community Intervention Team is up and running, this measure will benefit our frontline healthcare workers in hospitals by reducing the time spent as an inpatient by those who can be treated in the community,” concluded Minister Browne. n
Minister James Browne TD
Wexford’s €2.5m for housing adaptation Wexford County Council will receive €2.5m in funding to provide home adaptations for older people and those living with disability and mobility issues. Deputy Paul Kehoe said, “These grants are important as they help our older citizens and those with disabilities and mobility issues in Wexford to remain living independently in their own homes for longer should they wish and will also facili-
tate early return from hospital. “The grants are 80% funded from the exchequer by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, with 20% funding from the relevant local authority.” Grants of up to €30,000 are available to help people with a disability in carrying out works required to make a house more suitable for their needs, up to €8,000 to
assist older people to have necessary repairs or improvements carried out and up to €6,000 for mobility aids. Deputy Kehoe concluded, “These grants can help create employment opportunities for builders and businesses in Wexford and help reduce the dependency on our health services by supporting independent living for as long as possible.” n
Tackling injustices at home and abroad Mick Wallace MEP
Mick Wallace MEP has been highlighting the need to stop France, Germany, Spain, Belgium and Sweden, among others, selling arms to Saudi Arabia and the UAE where they are being used to wage war in faminestricken Yemen – ‘a man-made humanitarian disaster created by Europe’s business partners’. He says we ‘should stop doing business with genocidal regimes’. Closer to home, Mick Wallace has been addressing overfishing, advocating that the European Commission must prioritise the fishing interests of small coastal communities like Kilmore and Duncannon rather than the interests of the supertrawlers which are responsible for most of the environmental damage.
Elsewhere, Wexford Senator Malcolm Byrne is one of the Irish co-convenors of the Interparliamentary Alliance on China, which is a global group of parliamentarians concerned about China’s human rights abuses. He says, “Ireland and Europe should continue to build links with the Chinese people but we need to call out the abuse of human rights by the Communist Party against the Uighurs and other minorities.” He has also called for the government to support demands to move next year’s Winter Olympics from Beijing to deny the Chinese government the chance to use the Games for propaganda purposes. n
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Wexford Campus concerns Wexford’s new Concerns have been expressed again at the slow progress being made on the Technological University of South East Ireland (TUSEI) project and, in particular, that a site for the IT Carlow Wexford Campus has still not been secured. Director of Services at Wexford County Council, Tony Larkin, assured Council members at their February meeting that the €44m project wiill proceed and that work was progressing behind the scenes to finalise the Wexford campus site with a firm offer having been made for 45 acres on the outskirts of the town. The plan is to have 2,500 students on the new campus by 2030. Meanwhile, local TD Paul Kehoe said last month that, ‘Plans to establish a
Technological University for the South East continue to move forward with IT Carlow presenting a Strategic Assessment Report and a Business Case to the Higher Education Authority (HEA) in relation to the potential site. The HEA are completing their internal review processes on the business case, received on the 8th of February, with a view to making a recommendation in the near future.’ Senator Malcolm Byrne, who has been a long-term advocate for the TUSEI project, said, “I have made a submission to the Review of the National Development Plan that once university designation is secured for the South East, that significant capital investment is provided for its development.” n
Wexford businesses to face more Brexit checks
Senator Malcolm Byrne says that Wexford businesses will face more Brexit checks, “Businesses from Wexford who export need to be ready for further import checks that the UK will introduce on food and other agricultural products” from 1st April. These new Brexit checks are part of the UK’s phased introduction of controls which began on 1 January. In addition to the new customs procedures, exporters of food and agricultural products into Great Britain must, from 1 April, meet new UK requirements including prenotification on UK systems and new export health certificate requirements. These changes will also impact exporters moving goods across the UK Landbridge as all transit movements must also be pre-notified and be accompanied by a transit health certificate.
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Senator Byrne pointed out that these new checks will impact on supply chains for those shipping goods from Wexford and Ireland into Britain or using the Landbridge, particularly with potential time delays. He said, “Exporters, particularly of food products, need to be ready for these checks. “Avoiding the UK altogether will be increasingly attractive to Irish companies exporting to continental Europe as there will be greater time certainty through direct shipping. This makes the new direct routes at Rosslare even more attractive. “For Wexford companies exporting to Britain, the added checks could result in delays.” Information on the impact, as well as government grants and supports can be found at www.gov.ie/Brexit n
schools update Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB) announced on 23rd February, through its Chief Executive Kevin Lewis, that the Design Team has been appointed to deliver both a 1,000-pupil post-primary school (replacement for Selskar College) and a new eight-classroom school for the Educate Together National School, with significant potential for future expansion of both schools. The Design Team appointed consists of Architect and Design Team Leader Coady Architects; O’Connor Sutton Cronin & Associates Ltd (Civil/Structural Engineers); BDP (Mechanical & Electrical Engineers); MacMinn O’Reilly Mahon (Quantity Surveyor); Atkin (PSDP).
Cllr BarbaraAnne Murphy, Chairperson of WWETB
WWETB had announced in September 2020 that a 16-acre site had been acquired (subject to planning permission) at a location between the Whitford Hotel and the Clonard Road. At that announcement, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy said, ‘As Chairperson of WWETB, I am delighted that the site for our new second level school for Wexford town has been announced... I hope that the plans for our new school will get planning approval in a timely manner, and that we can proceed with this building project and provide this much needed education facility for the people of Wexford as soon as possible.’ Cllr Leonard Kelly, Mayor of Wexford, and a Board Member of Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB), says: ‘As Mayor of Wexford, a parent of schoolgoing children, resident of this town, and someone who works with schools in various capacities, I know that this project is a game changer for primary and post primary education in Wexford town.’ WWETB will manage and deliver the project for both schools. n
SlaNey NewS
Waterfront a winner Enniscorthy’s Waterfront Pool & Leisure Centre has again achieved the Outstanding Award for 2021 from Ireland Active whose White Flag Award is the leisure industry’s standards award. The delighted manager at the Waterfront, Barry Dempsey, said, “Thank you to all the staff for their work in the last year during difficult times, we look forward to opening our doors again and welcoming our customers back. Please stay safe in difficult times.” n
Paul Kehoe TD
GET ONLINE NOW!
Enniscorthy’s Waterfront Pool & Leisure Centre Manager, Barry Dempsey. Young Kars Wildes-Stamp pictured taking things easy in Market Square, Enniscorthy,
Local Fine Gael TD, Paul Kehoe, has confirmed that €1,049,177 was granted to 458 Wexford businesses in 2020 to help them go online through the Trading Online Voucher Scheme. Deputy Kehoe said: “The Trading Online Voucher Scheme is designed to help support small and micro businesses to develop their online presence. As part of this there is a grant available of up to €2,500 to help them develop or enhance their ability to trade online. In addition, as part of the scheme, small and micro businesses can avail of peer-to-peer advice and support through the Local Enterprise Offices.” Funding for the Scheme was increased from €2.3m to €39.8m in 2020 to respond to the challenges presented by Covid-19. The Government also introduced new flexibilities to the Scheme including reducing the requirement for co-funding and allowing businesses to apply for a second voucher where they have successfully utilised their first one. “I encourage any businesses in Wexford that have not yet applied for this Scheme to do so. In order to be eligible, an applicant business must have a limited online trading presence; 10 or less employees; turnover of less than €2 million; and must be trading for at least 6 months. Interested businesses should contact Wexford Local Enterprise Office by phoning 053 9196020 or else email info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie for more details on how to apply. n
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Support for Grieving in Exceptional Times Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) has launched a free bereavement resource pack, Support for Grieving in Exceptional Times, as we approach 4,500 Covid-19 related deaths in Ireland. It includes all the resources developed as part of IHF’s Care & Inform hub which was specially created to respond to the needs of those facing dying, death and bereavement during COVID-19 restrictions. Support for Grieving in Exceptional Times includes advice and guidance on acknowledging and coping with grief from a COVID-19 death, what to expect when planning a funeral as well as helping children deal with loss and grief.
Supporting teenagers to grieve during COVID-19, and Finding new ways for children to say goodbye. These resources have been developed with IHF’s Irish Childhood Bereavement Network (ICBN). Coordinator of the ICBN is Maura Keating: “It’s natural to want to protect and shield children when
someone dies; however, we need to talk to children to help them feel safer. The best thing to do is give them honest, age-appropriate information about death. It’s painful to see a child upset, but children cope better with sad news when they are told the truth. These resources are centred around adapting and developing new ways around supporting children and each other to grieve until the crisis passes.” IHF also runs Ireland’s only national Bereavement Support Line. It’s a freephone service, 1800 80 70 77 and is available Monday to Friday, 10am-1pm. It’s for anyone experiencing grief and loss; a COVID-19 related death or a death from other causes or maybe a previous loss is feeling more difficult during the current restrictions. Support for Grieving in Exceptional Times is available to download for free from www.hospicefoundation.ie
Head of Education and Bereavement Services at IHF is Orla Keegan: “The pandemic restrictions make everything seem strange, with normal routines disrupted. This is especially the case for people bereaved during this time, who find themselves planning a funeral and trying to cope with the loss of an important person in their life. Our hope for this pack is to provide information and assurance for people who are bereaved and some insights for those who want to help them.” The pack also includes three resources for those supporting bereaved children as the response to the pandemic continues: Helping children grieve during COVID-19,
Irish Hospice Foundation recently announced the recipients of its new Seed Grant scheme after a national callout. Over 70 applications were made for funding, which is in partnership with the Creative Ireland programme to inspire and support creative responses to the themes of dying, death and bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic. 11 projects from all over Ireland have been selected including one Wexford project: ‘Say It Feel It’. Chris Hayes at Crannóg Media produces the HedgeRadio podcast which was established five years ago by Chris as a creative outlet and a way to bring a little bit of Wexford and Ireland to the world. He now wants to “give voice to those grieving and dying who cannot have loved ones close” beginning by creating an audio work on a dedicated website where he will curate stories recorded with people affected by the pandemic.
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Encouraging neighbourly check-in
Healthy Wexford and Wexford Public Participation Network (PPN) are collaborating to check in on those living alone or more isolated as part of the ‘Keep Well’ campaign in Wexford. During the current restrictions, neighbourly check-in is even more important and so the Wexford Keep Well initiative is doing just that in an innovative and
non-contact way with ‘check-in’ cards. The postcard-size cards provide details of the Wexford County Council Community Call helpline on one side, and a friendly message on the reverse: ‘I called today to check in and see how you are doing. If you need anything or even a chat give me a call, or contact the Community Call Helpline (details over-
leaf).’ Cards have been distributed to Wexford PPN member groups who conduct the local check-in activity. Wexford PPN is a network with over 400 member groups across the county so they have a broad reach. The concept of the cards is that it is not intrusive to the vulnerable or isolated person, and gives them an invitation to connect, should they wish to do so – either with the local person who dropped the card, or with the Wexford County Council Community Call Helpline. As a security element, and reassurance to the recipient, the cards provide a space for the person leaving the card to identify how the recipient may know them – e.g. Mary from No. 4, John from the local shop etc. The PPN Member simply fills in their details and drops the card in the postbox of the person – ensuring a non-contact check in. PPN members will also only conduct ‘check-ins’ within their own 5km radius. Keep Well is part of the Healthy Ireland campaign – an initiative of the government of Ireland with funding from the Healthy Ireland Fund and Sláintecare, delivered by Pobal. n
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Online art exhibitions The annual Lions Club Art Exhibition at Wexford Arts Centre is now available to view online – what stunning colour and creativity. Check out all the wonderful art sent in this year at https://lionsclubshow.weebly.com/
with Mar ia Nolan
Book Review: Cilka’s Journey This time last year I read and reviewed Helen Morris’ bestselling Tattooist of Auschwitz and loved it, shortly afterwards I bought the sequel Cilka’s Journey, because like everyone else I wanted to find out what happened to Cilka Klein, the young girl who ‘collaborated with the enemy’ to survive Auschwitz and who befriended and was largely responsible for the survival of her two Jewish friends Lale and Gita. I resisted reading the book for as long as possible as I feared it wouldn’t be as good as the original but I have to say that Cilka’s Journey is a page turner and holds up exceptionally well as a follow up. Cilka’s Journey is based on the true story of Cecelia Klein, a young Jewish Czechoslovakian girl, the only member of her entire family to survive Auschwitz, because her striking looks brought her to the attention of two senior SS Officers who repeatedly raped and abused her and forced her into the role of hut leader where part of her duties was to assist the guards in loading women from Block 25 onto the trucks that would take them to the gas chambers. In the book, Cilka has a flashback to seeing her own mother loaded on to the death trucks, and she powerless to do anything about it.
For online exhibitions at Enniscorthy’s Presentation Centre see: https://www.presentationcentre.ie/currentexhibitions.html, and make sure to check out the Keep Sketch! virtual sketching group’s work there also. n
Texaco Art Competition The search to find the young artists who will excel in this year’s Texaco Children’s Art Competition has begun. Last year five students from Co. Wexford won prizes in the event which is now in its 67th year and is widely acknowledged as the longest running arts sponsorship in Ireland. Please note that the closing date for entries is Wednesday, 24th March. Judging will take place in April with winners to be announced in May. Details are available through Texaco service stations and online at www.texacochildrensart.com n
For over two years Cilka does what she needs to do to survive and is eighteen years old when Auschwitz is liberated by Soviet troops, however there is no taste of freedom for Cilka, she is sentenced, as a traitor for sleeping with the Nazis, to fifteen years hard labour in a Gulag camp in Siberia.
rris
Author Helen Mo
The Gulag camps of Stalin’s Russia are not all that different from the concentration camps of Hitler’s Germany, prisoners being worked to death in horrific Siberian conditions rather than exterminated. But once again Cilka is singled out and trained to become a nurse to the other prisoners as she serves out two-thirds of her fifteen year sentence before being released under Khrushchev’s regime.
Another intriguing novel from the very talented Helen Morris who tells Cilka’s story with sympathy and sensitivity and without judgement and simply tells us what Lale Sokolov said of her, ‘She was the bravest person I ever met.’ This one is well worth a read.
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– Maria Nolan
Co. Wexford’s libraries remain closed to the public in line with government guidelines. However there is still access as follows: Online library 24/7 Free eBooks, eAudiobooks, eNewspapers, eLanguage learning, online courses, comics and graphic novels, business and company research and more can be found at www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries/ebooks-and-eresources Delivery Book Call Service for elderly or vulnerable citizens. You can request a bag of books and it will be delivered directly to your door. Phone: 053-9196566 between 9.30am-5.30pm Monday to Friday.
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Wexford literature in lockdown there, always hearing stories of home, until a letter written years earlier sends her delving back into her family history, uncovering a shocking secret which takes her back across the water to Ireland. And Lucy, who has left Ireland to try her luck in the Big Apple with her sister. The two stories collide in a twist of fate that turn the lives of both women on their heads.
Hill
Literature in lockdown is certainly flourishing and literature in Wexford is no exception. Well known local author Carmel Harrington is due to release, this May, her 9th book – The Moon Over Kilmore Quay; author and filmmaker Hannah McNiven has just published her second novel The Birds of Bachelor Lane; local actor and filmmaker Michael Joseph Cloke has just released his eBook Reign of Celts; and Yours Truly’s debut novel The Shadow of the Hill is being published on Amazon as I write.
I will be reviewing The Moon over Kilmore Quay in our May edition.
Maria Nolan
Exciting times for literature and exciting times for Wexford as Carmel Harrington’s novel is set in Kilmore, much of Hannah McNiven’s The Birds of Bachelor Lane is set in Enniscorthy, and as you can imagine from my title – The Shadow of the Hill – it is set in Enniscorthy and is about the town and a family living there at the turn of the 20th century. So authors are keeping Wexford and Enniscorthy very much on the literary calendar.
Recently I caught up with Michael Joseph Cloke and spoke with him about his eBook, Reign of Celts. Michael Cloke’s creative juices are flowing all through the forty-eight pages of this short, actionpacked story set on the south coast of ancient Ireland around 800AD. A young man, Ailchu, rises up against an evil force to avenge the death of his loved ones. Of course there is a treacherous Seer by the name of Goll and of course there is a bloody and gory battle, where warriors and villains perish. Michael, who has spent a lot of time as an actor on the set of the very popular TV series The Vikings, brings all the savagery and destruction of war to life in this novella as he tries to explore the emotions and motives of our ancestors pondering the question – are we really that much different today than those who went before us. Whilst we may not settle our differences with a sword or a spear, are we still as vengeful and as vicious as ever, or have we really learned
to handle problems and situations in a more peaceful and forgiving manner? Reign of Celts is available now to download on Amazon. Hannah McNiven’s new novel The Birds of Bachelor Lane, tells the story of love, loss and betrayal in the 1950s. As the seasons change, each of Hannah’s carefully woven characters experience family difficulties, the joy of love, the pain of loss and the sting of betrayal as they learn that love can bring out the best and the worst in people, realising that no matter how close they become, everyone can keep secrets.
And finally, The Shadow of the Hill, my debut novel, tells the story of the thirteen children of Thomas and Mary McDonald living at Enniscorthy at the turn of the 20th century as, one by one, they leave for foreign shores, driven not by poverty or starvation but rather love, loss, jealousy, bigotry and the begrudgery of a small town. But the hill they were born under casts a long shadow, connecting them forever to family, kin, kind and country as their Enniscorthy roots act as a constant reminder of who they are and where they came from, even as they play their part in the Boer War, the Great War, the Wexford Lockout and the 1916 Rising – ‘It’s part of who we are. The blood and bone of our ancestors flowed into our river and seeped into our soil. It is what we eat and drink here in Enniscorthy and it will never let us forget.’ I invite you to enjoy this story (available on Amazon) of family, people and place and the things that bind us forever to home and heritage.
I will be reviewing The Birds of Bachelor Lane in our April edition.
I would very much like to record publicly my sincere thanks to local artist Larry Dunne for his wonderful cover design, Annie Gilpin, Derek Meyler and Frank Corcoran for their tremendous expertise and assistance with publishing.
Carmel Harrington goes from strength to strength with her 9th novel since 2012 about to hit bookstores. The Moon Over Kilmore Quay, tells the story of two women – one in Brooklyn, Bea, who grows up as part of the Irish Community
Wexford literature has certainly been productive in lockdown and continues to provide a variety of titles and genres for you the readers to relish in these difficult Covid times. – Maria Nolan
Best of luck to Enniscorthy’s Michael Joseph Cloke, actor, director, singer, musician and writer – a busy man! His new short edition E-Book is now on sale on Amazon.
‘REIGN OF CELTS: A HISTORICAL STORY OF LOVE AND REVENGE’ Back in the dark ages, circa 800 AD, on the South East coast of Ireland, a young man named Ailchú rises up against evil forces to avenge the death of his loved ones and a meeting with an evil seer sends him on a journey to the dark side where his fate is determined!!!
PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRE WHEN IT REOPENS Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764. The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000. 8th March 2021 - Page 81
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Nursing home set for derelict Rosslare hotel site Domal Developments Ltd, the owner of the former Great Southern Hotel site in Rosslare, lodged a planning application with Wexford County Council on 1st March for permission for change of use of the former hotel to a nursing home. The 90-bedroom nursing home would include dayrooms, offices, meeting rooms, mortuary, laundry, kitchen, dining room, staff rooms, various bathrooms, treatment room, and ancillary accommodation, 24 one-bedroom assisted-living apartments and one studio apartment, 2nd floor extension to existing north and west wings, single-storey extensions at south and east of existing building, two-storey extensions at south and west of existing
building, three-storey extensions to south and west of existing building, alterations to all elevations, external steps and ramps, front boundary wall with railing and gates at St. Martin’s Road, walled service area, new boundary fencing with gate to northern boundary, ancillary site works and car-parking for 77 cars. Construction could begin as early as this July, subject to planning. Local Councillor and Chairman of Wexford County Council, Ger Carthy, has spoken in favour of this application. “The opportunity for local, much-needed jobs and further economic development and activity in this area, is a big positive,” he says. n
Cllr Ger Carthy, Chairman of Wexford County Council
Gorey Institute of Further Education ➤ Sustainable Energy and Construction Technology QQI Level 5. It has also been confirmed that for the academic year 2021/22 Pre-Nursing QQI Level 5, Healthcare Support QQI Level 5 and Year 2 of the Accounting Technician course will be introduced.
Dr Iain Wickham, Principal of GIFE
In February, Gorey PLC (Post Leaving Certificate) rebranded itself as Gorey Institute of Further Education (GIFE). ‘Our new name and logo were developed through a collaborative process, which reflects our passion for teaching and commitment to providing every learner the opportunity to reach their full potential. We also believe our new name aligns with our commitment to being a mainstay of Further Education in Gorey and North Wexford,’ said Principal of GIFE, Dr Iain Wickham. GIFE has been set up by Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board.
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In conjunction with the rebrand comes the launch of a new website. Through its engaging design, with easy-to-use features, suited for either desktop, mobile or tablet use, the new website displays an array of essential information about the courses, application procedures, fees, grants and much more. The courses currently on offer include: ➤ Accounting Technician Year 1. ➤ Business QQI Level 6. ➤ Youthwork and Community Development QQI Level 5.
‘Across all of our courses, through study, assignments and work experience, our learners can develop the skills and selfconfidence that will lead to future education or career opportunities. Our experienced staff are committed to delivering quality course content with a significant emphasis placed on student engagement and learning,’ said Dr Wickham. Whatever your journey may be, the staff at Gorey Institute of Further Education can support you and help you to achieve your goals. ‘We are very excited to showcase our centre over the coming months and so if you or someone you may know is interested in joining us here at Gorey Institute of Further Education, please get in touch’ says Dr Wickham. For more information on all courses and how to apply, visit the new website https://www.goreyife.ie/ n
Nick Cosgrave Nick Cosgrave was born on the family farm in Ballinavary, Davidstown, on 11th July 1949 to Nick and Kathleen (nee Furlong) of Killogan. He was the second youngest of six children. He was educated in Davidstown NS and Enniscorthy CBS. Nick began working in S&AG Davis, Enniscorthy, in 1968. Alongside his work he trained as a certified accountant in Waterford IT. In 1974 Nick decided to embark on a new adventure when he moved to Kitwe in Zambia where he worked as an accountant in a copper mining company. He returned to his beloved County Wexford in 1976 and rejoined Davis's as Financial Controller. He later worked with IAWS when Davis’s sold the mill and in 1994 he joined Weatherglaze Systems, Gorey. Nick always valued education and despite working a full-time job and raising four young children, he undertook a Masters in Business Administration (MBA). It was an immensely proud day for the family when he graduated in April 1996 in Trinity College, Dublin. Nick worked as Financial Director in Weatherglaze for much of his career and he retired in 2014. Nick was a very giving and generous man. He willingly shared his business and financial expertise with many community groups such as St. Senan’s NS Board of Management, Shamrocks GAA Club, Enniscorthy Gospel Choir, Enniscorthy Golf Club and, in most recent years, Enniscorthy Credit Union. Nick served as a Director on the Board of Enniscorthy Credit Union for many years. In 2018 he was appointed chairman, a position he held until his death. He was a selfless man and he guided these organ-
isations for the benefit of the members and the local community. Nick was a keen historian and had a particular interest in family history. He spent many years researching distinguished family members, such as Mother Patrick Cosgrave of Rhodesia, Bishop Browne of Ferns and Cornelius Furlong of Killogan. His efforts culminated in publishing many articles and books in collaboration with his brother Fr. William Cosgrave, Monagear. Nick enjoyed photography and videography and he documented countless family events over the years. He recorded many local Communion and Confirmation ceremonies in St. Aidan’s, St. Senan’s, Monagear and Ferns. He also recorded numerous weddings and other local events. Although Nick had a busy career and many hobbies and interests, he was first and foremost a family man. His greatest joy was seeing his four children progress successfully in their careers and their personal lives. Alongside his wife of 40 years, Helen (nee Murphy), Nick enjoyed spending time with his children and five grandchildren. They took numerous trips to South Africa and New Zealand to visit their two sons and their families. Nick Cosgrave has left a legacy as being one of life’s greatest gentlemen. He will be deeply missed by his wife Helen, his children, David, Clare, Nicola and Conor, his sons-in-law and daughters-in-law, five grandchildren and his siblings, Gabriel, Fr. William, Anna, Margaret and Kay. Nick died on 12th January in University Hospital Waterford from complications of Myelofibrosis. n
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Wexford’s local chapter of Stop Climate Chaos (SCC), is calling on Government ministers, politicians and the general public to support the proposed amendments to Ireland’s Climate Bill. SCC Wexford contends that the strengthening of the Climate Bill through the proposed amendments is critical, and is appealing to individuals, families and businesses to contact all local TDs and Senator immediately to let them know your very grave concerns regarding climate change, the environment, adverse effects on wildlife and plant species, air quality and water. Breda Cahill, from Wexford SCC says: “This is our opportunity to play our role in preventing the greatest ever threat to our very existence. Like never before, we must get involved, together with one voice on the same page in a chapter of our lives that may never get written if we don’t act now. “SCC, a grass-roots, non-politically affiliated volunteer group of climate conscious people, has already had virtual meetings with all of County Wexford’s five TDs and Senator Malcolm Byrne, and has urged them to support the passing of the Climate Bill together with the recommendations of the JOCCA Report (Joint Oireachtais Committee on Climate Action).
And if the natural world can no longer support the most basic of our needs, then much of the rest of civilization will quickly break down.’” Breda says, “The level of engagement of all members in putting together and finalising the JOCCA Report is a testament to the seriousness with which the political system is taking climate action. When the report was made public, the chairman of the JOCCA Committee, Brian Leddin, said, ‘The scale of the challenge is so great that it must be owned by all parties and none. The hallmark of this report is consensus and cooperation. We will need such efforts across all of politics and society as we go forward if we are to successfully tackle this existential crisis.’” Breda continues, “The JOCCA report recommends that the Bill should be drafted in a way that creates clear legal obligations and ensures legal accountability in the future, that it establish a net zero target by 2050 for the first time, that it introduce binding, five-year carbon budgets and that government break this down into specific sectoral targets and make individual ministers directly accountable for those targets.”
“The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Bill 2020 will be a major step forward in the legal framework within which climate policy will be developed in the years ahead.” Breda continues, “David Attenborough, in his address to the U.N., summed up the disasters facing us if we don’t act to prevent further global warming and subsequent climate change. ‘If we continue on our current path, we will face the collapse of everything that gives us our security: food production, access to fresh water, habitable ambient temperature and ocean food chains.
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David Attenborough: “If we continue on our current path, we will face the collapse of everything that gives us our security: food production, access to fresh water, habitable ambient temperature and ocean food chains.”
The JOCCA committee has also set out its views on just transition, climate justice, climate science, public involvement, biodiversity and nature-based solutions. The committee carried out pre-legislative scrutiny of the Climate Action and Low Carbon (Amendment) Bill 2020 and a range of expert witnesses appeared before it, while others provided detailed submissions. The latest Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) of how well 57 countries are tackling climate change was published in December 2020. Ireland has been ranked in 39th position, moving up two places from 41st position the previous year. However, Ireland remains in the “low” category of the Index for the second year running, following two years in the “very low” category. The CCPI is the international ranking that led then Taoiseach Leo Varadkar to admit to the European Parliament in 2018 that Ireland was a “laggard” on climate change. In December 2018, Ireland was ranked the worst performing country in the EU, for the second year running. In the latest ranking Ireland is in 19th place among the 27 EU countries. The authors of the most recent report, the New Climate Institute and the Climate Action Network, note: “This improvement is largely rooted in changes to government policies, and if these are translated into concrete actions then Ireland has considerable potential for improvement.” Breda concludes: “We can make a difference, each and every one of us, if we make sure a robust Climate Bill is passed and enacted, making Ireland a world leader in climate action and a shining example for the rest of the world to follow.” Anyone wishing to contact SCC Wexford can do so at stopclimatechaoswexford@gmail.com or call 086 3414223. n
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Book now to secure your summer break in Co. Wexford
Curracloe Beach
Following a successful holiday season in 2020, Visit Wexford is designing another exciting ‘#BestforSun #BestforFun’ campaign full of endless adventures that capture the magical summer moments. Visit Wexford is encouraging holidaymakers to book their 2021 summer holidays well in advance to the Sunny South East to guarantee a safe and unforgettable vacation. Right across the county, there are incredible accommodation options available for early bookers to suit all budgets and all types of holidays. Visit Wexford's regular blogs outline the rates available at a variety of accommodation choices. Wexford was named among the top 3 destinations to visit in Ireland in 2020,
and this summer is bound to be another popular choice as we are all dreaming of some quality time away with friends, family and loved ones. As well as booking your accommodation early, it is advised to book some of those adventures on your summer wishlist. Many attractions have online prebooking facilities in place to manage visitor numbers. From Castletown just north of Gorey right down to Ballyhack outside of Arthurstown, there are so many safe outdoor adventures to explore, see and do. Ireland’s sunniest destination includes over 250km of scenic coastline that harbours some of the most spectacular golf courses, sandy beaches, adventure tours and trails, lush gardens, heritage sites, family-friendly activities, great hospitality, and of course, excellent food.
It is easy to see why Wexford is the number one holiday destination for many. In Wexford, we have seen a sharp increase in demand for pet-friendly accommodation for those travelling with their beloved furry friends. If you are bringing your canine companion on your summer holiday, be sure to check the Visit Wexford guide to where you can eat, stay and play with your pet throughout the county. Visit Wexford would like to remind all holidaymakers to follow the national safety guidelines set by the HSE. If you are travelling to Wexford, please check visitwexford.ie and the main social media platforms @VisitWexford for the latest news, offers and availability across the county. n
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IT’S A DOG’S LIFE!
Above: At Enniscorthy Farmers Market in Abbey Square on 27th February were Stephen O’Leary, Sinead Kavanagh and their dogs. Below left: Liz Browne and her dogs at the Market in Abbey Square. Below right: At Slaney Street, Robert Hanlam and Michael Doyle, 27th February.
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BOI branch banking bombshell Sinn Féin TD for Co. Wexford, Johnny Mythen, has described the recent announcement of branch closures across the island by Bank of Ireland as the wrong decision at the worst possible time, with serious consequences for customers and staff.
customers, especially those that use the Taghmon and Rosslare branches. “The announcement will further damage communities that have already been economically left behind by government policy over the past decade. We support the call of the Financial Services Union for a moratorium on branch closures until the end of 2022; once this pandemic has ended.
Teachta Mythen said: “This announcement comes in the teeth of a global pandemic and less than two weeks after Ulster Bank announced its withdrawal from the southern market. It is a huge blow for customers and staff. “Bank of Ireland has attempted to justify this announcement based on a fall in branch visits over the past twelve months. This is hardly surprising given the entire population has had its movements significantly restricted in response to a public health emergency. In reality, the bank is using Covid-19 for cover, punishing customers for following public health regulations. This is not just a cynical move, but a slap in the face that will hurt customers, staff and communities.
Wexford TD Johnny Mythen
“This knee-jerk reaction will leave vulnerable customers without access to essential services. How can Bank of Ireland engage with and prepare these customers for branch closures when public health restrictions are in place? Why was there no consultation and no stakeholder engagement? The only conclusion I can draw is that they have no regard for their
“I will be writing to the CEO of Bank of Ireland, the Minister for Finance and the Governor of the Central Bank... The Minister is a major shareholder in Bank of Ireland, while the Governor is charged with consumer protection. They have a responsibility to do all they can to put the interests of customers and communities first. The taxpayer poured €4.7 billion into Bank of Ireland during the financial crisis... The people of County Wexford, and in particular those in Rosslare and Taghmon, deserve better from a bank that was bailed out with their taxes." n
Wexford goes virtual for St Patrick’s Day Wexford is going virtual for St. Patrick's Day 2021 and the public are being invited to embrace this new-style festival. Keep up to date on the ‘Wexford Virtual St. Patrick's Day 2021’ Facebook page, and see page 54-55 of this issue of the Slaney News.
Wexford Virtual St. Patrick’s Day 2021 organisers, L-R: John Michael Murphy of Seanchai Productions, Cllr Leonard Kelly, Mayor of Wexford, and Nick Bailey of Extreme Rhythm. See story pages 54-55.
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