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BUMBER 40 PAGE ISSUE
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Issue 120 - Monday - 6 April 2020
Adamstown, Askamore, Ballaghkeen, Ballindaggin, Ballycarney, Ballyduff, Ballyedmond, Ballyhoge, Ballymurn, Blackwater, Boolavogue, Bree, Bunclody, Camolin, Castledockrell, Clohamon, Clonroche, Courtnacuddy, Curracloe, Enniscorthy, Ferns, Galbally, Glenbrien, Killanne, Kilmuckridge, Kilmyshall, Kiltealy, Marshalstown, Monageer, Monamolin, Oylegate, Oulart, Poulpeasty, Raheenduff, Rathnure, Screen, The Harrow.
COPING WITH COVID-19 We offer a support service ote rem so that we can fix many issues without having to call to your premises
PAT MURPHY Oil Ltd. A family-owned Wexford company providing you with a reliable and quality service since 1988 Ask about our Easy Pay Budget Plan All Major Credit & Laser Cards Accepted Delivering Kerosene, Diesel, Gas Oil, Agri Diesel to homes, farms and businesses all around Co. Wexford.
Tel: 053-9255219 RATHNURE – ENNISCORTHY Help prevent coronavirus The virus spreads in sneeze and cough droplets, so regularly taking these measures helps reduce the chance of it spreading.
Wash your hands
The Quays in Enniscorthy – deserted of people and traffic. Pic: Dee O’Leary.
At the time of going to press (Monday night, 6th April) there are 5,364 confirmed cases of Covid19 in Ireland, with 174 confirmed deaths. The median age of deaths in Ireland is 81. The Slaney News offers its deepest sympathy to all the families affected. 1,236 (26%) of confirmed cases have been hospitalised with 169 admitted to ICU. The median age of those admitted to ICU is 61. There are 57 clusters in nursing homes nationwide. The figures as outlined above are indeed stark. But here in Co. Wexford the situation appears less bleak. The total number of confirmed cases in the county remains at 21. Per head of population Co. Wexford has the third lowest number of confirmed cases in Ireland,
Cover mouth if coughing or sneezing
Avoid touching your face
and just 0.4% of all cases in the country. A huge amount of physical work and forward planning has been done in Wexford General Hospital (WGH) to facilitate existing and future Covid-19 cases. In fact, WGH is considered by many to be an exemplar for the rest of the country’s hospitals. Frontline staff in WGH have been widely praised for their work to date with Covid19 actual and suspected cases. The HSE is aiming to increase the number of people being tested for Covid-19 to 4,500 a day this week, after it dropped as low as 1,500 a day for a period last week. Chief Medical Officer, Dr Tony Holohan, has warned that the coming days will be crucial in the ongoing fight against the virus. n
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NEED INFORMATION OR ADVICE ON COVID-19? www.hse.ie/coronavirus www.gov.ie/health-covid-19 HSE Helpline: 1850 24 1850 (8am - 8pm Monday to Friday and 10am - 5pm on Saturday and Sunday)
Keep surfaces clean
Stop shaking hands and hugging
Keep a safe distance
Wexford Co. Council Community Call Helpline 053 919 6000 (Lines open 8am - 8pm, 7 days a week)
Slaneynews: May issue will be out on Monday 27th April 2020
THE MARKET THE M ARKET HOUSE HOUSE MILLPARK ROAD, ENNISCORTHY (BETWEEN BANK OF IRELAND AND EUROGIANT)
FACEBOOK: ‘ENNISCORTHY THE MARKET HOUSE’
MOBILE: 085-1792518
DUE TO COVID-19 WE ARE TEMPORARILY CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE BUT YOU CAN STILL BUY MOST OF OUR STOCK THROUGH OUR FACEBOOK PAGE:
‘Enniscorthy The Market House’ OR ORDER DIRECTLY FROM CARMEL ON 085-1792518 AND PAY BY CARD Carmel and staff look forward to seeing all our many customers and lots of new ones when the Market House re-opens after the Covid-19 crisis. In the meantime please stay safe and well, and follow the physical distancing rules. DEPOSITS TAKEN ON ALL STOCK
Make sure to watch our Facebook page (Enniscorthy The Market House) over the coming weeks for great bargains and keep Liking and Sharing!
THE MARKET HOUSE – AN ALADDIN’S CAVE – EVERYTHING UNDER THE ONE ROOF – OVER 10,000 SQ.FT. OF FURNITURE, BEDS, RUGS, CURTAINS, BEDDING, HOMEWARES, FASHIONS AND SHOES. CALL CARMEL FOR FREE INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE – OVER 25 YEARS DESIGNING INTERIORS. 2 Slaney Ad
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6 April 2020
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Candy Tours, Bennekerry, Carlow. Tel: 087-263 2324. E: info@candytours.ie W: www.candytours.ie To all our friends and customers, we hope you are staying safe and well and hopefully this Covid-19 crisis will end soon. As to when Candy Tours will reopen, we do not know yet, but in the meantime we would like to wish you all the very best and stay safe. John and Bridie Candy, Candy Tours.
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Slaney News
6 April 2020
THE SLANEY NEWS IS NOW AVAILABLE IN 230 OUTLETS!
comment The Slaney News will soon be ten years in existence serving the community of Enniscorthy and the surrounding areas, and in that time we have never missed a monthly issue. However, we have to comply with government and HSE guidelines, and not being an “essential service” we cannot travel around Co. Wexford distributing our usual 10,000 copies. And even if we did somehow have permission, most of our 230 distribution outlets are in fact temporarily closed. However, we are determined to keep the Slaney News active throughout this Covid-19 crisis and so we are producing this April issue as an online version only. It can be read now on www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs together with most of our back issues. Being a digital-only version we feel we cannot charge for advertising so ALL the ads you see in this issue have been included FREE of charge, as a community service, to help those local essential businesses that are open and to help our public services (such as the HSE, Wexford County Council and Wexford Local Enterprise Office) to get their message ‘out there’ for FREE. On our front cover, and throughout this issue, we report on Covid-19 particularly as it relates to Co. Wexford. In comparison with other counties we appear to be coping well, and thankfully local Gardaí are reporting good compliance with social distancing measures around the county. It’s expected over the coming days that the current restrictions in place in Ireland, such as school closures and non-essential workers having to stay home, will be extended beyond mid-April. The government and health officials have said that these measures to date have indeed helped to stall the spread of the virus. A lot has been said and written about Covid-19, but if we all follow some simple advice it will go a long way towards stopping the spread of this virus: Keep washing your hands, cover your mouth if coughing or sneezing, avoid touching your face, keep surfaces clean, and keep at least 2m away from other people. Take care and stay safe. – Frank Corcoran
SLANEY NEWS, CLONHASTON, ENNISCORTHY Tel: 087-2403310 slaneynews@gmail.com www.slaneynews.com Facebook: “Slaney News” Online: www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs PUBLISHED in Enniscorthy by Corcoran Print & Design PRINTED in Cork City by Webprint and READ in Enniscorthy, Bunclody and the surrounding areas by up to 20,000 people (based on estimated average readership of two people per copy).
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10,000 copies per issue of which 5,000 are distributed door-to-door in Enniscorthy town and 700 in Bunclody. The balance is distributed to over 230 drop-off points: ENNISCORTHY: Doyles Bar, The Duffry Gala Duffry Hope Centre The Wilds Copper Pan The Holy Grail Stamps Cotton Tree Cafe Crew Cuts Burke O’Leary Turkuts The Antique Tavern George’s Hair Salon Impresso Cafe IWA Charity Shop Millstream Fish Shop Butcher’s Cottage / Bakery Bridget’s Hair Salon Hair Salon Inspiration Rackards Little Spoon Coffee Shop Danny’s Barber Shop Karl Martin Cutting Edge Curls South East Animal Rescue Maura Flannery’s Shop My Café Coffee Shop Abbey Centre Bizzy Fingers City Fashions AJ Pets California Sun Tan Orchard Fruit & Veg Shop NCBI Mrs Quinn’s Charity Shop Sandro’s Wickham Bros Monica’s Hair Salon Storm Hair Design Burke-O’Leary –––––––––––––––––––––
Alba Restaurant Holohan’s Pub Shang Hai Golden City The Bailey Dunnes Lotus House T. Doyle’s Pub Enniscorthy Kebabish Mizzoni’s TJ Murphy’s FFC Carry Out Templeshannon The Local Bar Dawson’s Bar Bellefield GAA complex –––––––––––––––––––– Kavanagh’s Pharmacy Uptown Kuts Enniscorthy Cabs Hilltop Dry Cleaners Aideen Vonno Beauty Booth Pet Corner Presentation Centre Greenville Stores SuperValu Pettitts Gonzaga House –––––––––––––––––––– Quik Pick, Ross Road Grants Pharmacy Saucy Butcher Pet Depot CWCWE Enterprise Centre Enniscorthy Voc. College Co. Wexford Education Centre Centra-Drive Milehouse Road –––––––––––––––––––– C&R Print Bus Stop Shop Smiles Dental The Barber Shop Enniscorthy Chamber Screaming Canvas Treacys Hotel Waterfront Merrythought House TK Cabs Toss Kavanagh’s O’Callaghan’s Centra T’shannon Community Centre
George Kehoe & Co Chapel Lane Service Station D&G Hair Studio Castle Gardens Dept of Agricuture Offices Topaz Service Station Baker Tilly Hughes Blake Alcast Motor Factors Wheelocks
ONLY 230 MORE DELIVERIES TO DO !
Main Post Office IFA Centre Bank of Ireland AIB Wexford Local Development Enniscorthy Credit Union Enniscorthy Castle Ashmore Financial Services Frizelle O’Leary Solicitors Property Team M.A. O'Leary Burger Macs Hope Shop R&T Beauty –––––––––––––––––––– Sami’s Sherry FitzGerald O'Leary Monica’s Hair Salon Phoenix Estates Crystal Script Kennys for Bikes O’Learys Newsagents –––––––––––––––––––– Library Riverside Park Hotel Rejuvenate Treatment Rooms St John’s Hospital 1798 Centre –––––––––––––––––––– Mackin Travel GX3 Scissors Sisters
Put A Bow On It Finishing Touches Yellow Rose Sofia’s Galo Chargrill Town Council Offices River Restaurant ABC Takeaway Community Info. Service O’Leary Travel Eir –––––––––––––––––––– Delaneys Newsagents Toffee & Thyme O’Brien’s, Court Street Cut & Shave Serenity Place Court Street Dental Clinic Court Street Medical Centre Citizens Advice Centre Easons Grants Pharmacy Darcy Blinds & Interiors –––––––––––––––––––– Evolv James Browne TD Office Paul’s Shoe Repair Finnegan’s Findz The Athenaeum –––––––––––––––––––– Studio 5 Bega Barber Cafe Harmonia Beautique Paul Kehoe TD Office Via Veneto Mick’s Barber Shop Paula Treacy Auctioneer Gus Byrne’s Sewing Studio MUM –––––––––––––––––––– TOP shop/filling station Centra-Drive Quarrypark Cooney Furlong, Old Dublin Rd Moyne Veterinary Clinic Pump Palace Gym Kilcannon Garden Centre Superdine Lifestyle Fitness Rebecca’s Enniscorthy Car Wash Tile Store n More
Power Plant Hire Baked Potato Old Dublin Road Coal Yard ATB Tyres Before & After Furniture NCRS Enniscorthy Golf Club –––––––––––––––––––– ADAMSTOWN: Cullen’s Gala. BALLAGHKEEN: Sawdust Inn BALLYCARNEY: Jenny’s Diner BALLYEDMOND/WELLS: Downes Gala BALLYMURN: Peter Doyle’s Costcutter Ballymurn Credit Union. BLACKWATER: Londis Post Office Blackwater Lodge Hotel BOOLAVOGUE: Post Office Fr Murphy Centre. BUNCLODY: Adult Learning Centre SuperValu Anatolia Turkish Barber Betsy’s Hair Parlour Bearbóir Barber Mango Tree Tourism Office Rivers Edge Library Campus-Gala Sugar & Spice Daybreak, Ryland Road Eurospar Half Way House Credit Union Chevue Studio Dols Beauty Clinic DNG O'Connor & O'Connor Hers N Sirs ArtBank Hair Junction SignaCare Nursing Home CAMOLIN: C&K Takeaway Christy Byrne’s, Butcher
Post Office. CASTLEBRIDGE: Flanagan’s CLONROCHE: Kavanagh’s Gala Post Office House of Hair COURTNACUDDY: Kelly’s Shop. CURRACLOE: Cloney’s Shop Post Office. FERNS: Buí The Unique Escape Mace Applegreen Ferns Barber Bolgers Hardware Courtyard Eclipz Blush Ferns Community Centre Ferns Castle Saints Salon Daybreak Davitts Music Shop KILMUCKRIDGE: Centra Kates Coffee Shop & Deli Sean Ógs Hotel. KILTEALY/BALLINDAGGIN: Bowe’s Shop. MONAGEER Monageer Tavern / Shop. OULART: Corrigan’s Londis Post Office. OYLEGATE: Garrys Service Station. RATHNURE: Pat Murphy Oil Conran Interiors WEXFORD: Maldron Hotel O’Briens, Redmond Sq O’Briens, Main St Nosh & Dosh, Redmond Sq Yard Restaurant Wexford Arts Centre Wexford General Hospital Wexford Service Station
NEW MUSIC FESTIVAL FOR FERNS on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of his death, a new weekend-long music festival is scheduled to take place in ferns later this year in honour of local legendary uilleann piper, leo rowsome, whose ancestral home is near the village. this inaugural leo rowsome weekend event will celebrate the contribution that leo rowsome has made to traditional irish music and in particular the uilleann pipes. Leo Rowsome was born in 1903 into a talented musical family with his father, William, being a maker and repairer of musical instruments. Leo him-
Leo Rowsome in 1968
self became a performer, manufacturer and teacher of the uilleann pipes throughout his life. In 1919, at the age of just sixteen, Leo was appointed teacher of the uilleann pipes at Dublin’s Municipal School of Music (now Dublin Institute of Technology Conservatory of Music and Drama) where he worked for 50 years. He also taught at Dublin’s Pipers Club of which he was president, having revived it as Cumann na Píobairí in 1936 after an 11year hiatus. Leo was the first uilleann piper to perform on Irish national radio in the early 1920s. He formed his Pipes
Quartet in the mid-1930s and broadcast regularly throughout the 1940s and 1950s and was the first Irish artist to perform on BBC TV (1933). He made many recordings for Decca, Columbia and HMV. His last commercial recording, “Rí na bPíobairí” (King of the Pipers) was made for Claddagh Records in 1966. Leo Rowsome died suddenly while adjudicating ‘The Fiddler of Dooney Competition’ in Riverstown, County Sligo, on 20 September 1970. At a recent meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District, Manager Ger Mackey said a new festival to be organised by Enniscorthy Municipal District is planned for Ferns on the weekend of September 18 to 20, during which the life of this extraordinary exponent of traditional Irish music would be celebrated. n
SCREEN GALBALLY
OYLEGATE BALLYHOGE
CURRACLOE
ADAMSTOWN
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.
ENNISCORTHY SNIPPETS… ENNISCORTHY SNIPPETS… Keep Up to date For positive, good news stories about Enniscorthy and Co. Wexford read Maria Nolan’s blog a t o u t a n d a b o u t w i t h m a r ianolan.wordpress.com tHe atHenaeUM See “Enniscorthy Athenaeum Museum and Historic Theatre“ on Facebook. St Senan’S pariSH binGo Bingo Nights are cancelled until further notice.
CHriStian Media trUSt Check out www.christianmeddiatrust.ie for details of programmes and broadcast times on South East Radio. illeGal dUMpinG To report illegal dumping: Wexford County Council (WCC) Customer Service on 053-9196000 or email customerservice@coco.ie. If you see dumping, take a photo and if possible send it to WCC to help them assess how big or small the incident is and what level of
response is needed. Civil defenCe needS yoU! Check out www.civildefence.ie. enniSCortHy flood defenCe The main construction work is expected to start later this year lasting three years. See www.enniscorthyfds.ie i r i S H C o n v e r S at i o n eveninGS A chance to chat in Irish. The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy.
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Cancelled until further notice. More information: 087-1377068. new defibrillator A new defibrillator has recently been installed in the clubhouse in S h a m ro c k s G A A c l u b i n Enniscorthy. SoCial HoUSinG Wexford Co. Council is seeking tenders for the construction of 17 social housing units and all associated site works at Carley’s Bridge, Enniscorthy. n
Slaney Covid-19 News
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Coronavirus COVID-19
Help prevent coronavirus
Know the signs Wash
High Temperature Wash your hands
Cover mouth if coughing or sneezing
Avoid touching your face
Shortness of Breath
Breathing Di cul琀es
Keep surfaces clean
Stop shaking hands and hugging
Cough
Keep a safe distance
The virus spreads in sneeze and cough droplets, so regularly taking the above measures helps reduce the chance of it spreading.
For 8 out of 10 people, rest and over the counter medica琀on can help you feel be琀er.
Cover
Avoid
Clean
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Distance
If you have symptoms, self-isolate to protect others and phone your GP. Visit hse.ie for updated factual informa琀on and advice or call 1850 24 1850.
Visit HSE.ie For updated factual informa琀on and advice Or call 1850 24 1850
Protec琀on from coronavirus. It’s in our hands.
Protec琀on from coronavirus. It’s in our hands.
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Social Distancing Outside Spending time outdoors is good for our health. But social responsibility is essential for ALL our health.
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sizes should be kept to a minimum
Don’t arrange
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For Daily Updates Visit www.gov.ie/health-covid-19 www.hse.ie
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Slaney Covid-19 News
View from the Hill
A local contributor looks at life today in Enniscorthy and beyond
6 April 2020
GENERAL AND SENATE ELECTIONS As a result of the above elections, Wexford has now seven Oireachtas members. We have five TDs and two new senators, Malcolm Byrne and Michael D’Arcy. The Senate is a peculiar forum in the sense that those elected to it are not constituency representatives. They represent the councillors who elect them and their job is to scrutinise government legislation and activate legislation. So therefore they are not senators for Wexford but they are actually truly national representatives. I imagine though that this little detail won’t stop Malcolm and Michael opening up offices and holding clinics across the county over the next few years. Best of luck to both of them and indeed our five TDs during these difficult times when, hopefully, everyone is working as a team for the security and safety of our people.
GOVERNMENT FORMATION The present virus issue, which I have deliberately ignored because we are being blitzed with information regarding it at this stage, has somewhat pushed coverage of the attempts to form a government into the background. Despite the lack of publicity, we must remember how important this matter is. Whatever parties get together will be in situ for three or four years as our government and will shape the way in which we live for a much longer period. It appears that the most likely outcome will be Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Regional Independents who between them would have about 84 seats. A small but workable majority. This opens up the question of our position in Co. Wexford in relation to ministries. Bearing in mind that currently Paul Kehoe is a Junior Minister, the question has to arise as to what will be his fate in such a government. With Fine Gael having only
reality is that over 60% of the electorate voted otherwise and that will then be reflected in the outcome if Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Regional Independents come together.
Brendan Howlin TD campaigning during the 2020 General Election with Labour colleague, Cllr George Lawlor.
about six senior ministers in such a set-up it’s highly likely that the reduced number of junior ministerial positions available will go to some of the senior ministers who will lose their positions. Therefore, the current juniors will have to step aside. There is the possibility that Fianna Fáil might appoint James Browne to a position as he is currently a front bench spokesman on Mental Health. The most likely probability is that if the Regional Independents are involved that Verona Murphy
would be an appointee to a junior position. And no better qualified person to go into the Department of Transport than Verona. There’s a certain irony in that for Fine Gael and no doubt if it comes to pass will give a certain grim satisfaction to her backers and supporters. There are those who will argue that people voted for change because approximately 25% of the electorate voted for Sinn Fein and that they are being excluded if the above scenario comes to pass. The
JUST WONDERING In conclusion, I am just wondering does Brendan Howlin regret jumping so soon to resign as leader of the Labour Party. As things are working out, had he remained leader for another week or two, he may have got acceptance from his party, in the national interest in the present crisis, to join a government of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, Regional Independents and Labour giving them a total of about 90 seats out of 157 (excluding the Ceann Comhairle). Brendan would have finished a long career as a senior minister rather than as a mere backbencher. Just wondering. Any observations or comments on this column feel free to email: viewcolumn@gmail.com
Some Covid-19 updates... a number of locations in the South east are being used as designated “drive through” testing centres as part of massive efforts underway to stop the spread of Covid-19 (Coronavirus). the service is being provided in five designated centres – waterford, Kilkenny, Clonmel, Carlow and wexford. The service is on an appointment-only basis via a GP referral. It is important to note that this service is only for people who are showing symptoms and who have been referred by their GP so as to ensure that the health service is in a position to provide testing for those who need it most. At no stage do visitors get out of their cars while at the centres, and privacy is maintained at all times. ––––––––––––––––––––––––– wexford County Council (wCC) is continuing to request that the public refrain from visiting Council offices. According to a spokesperon, “The situation
in relation to Covid-19 is evolving on a continual basis” but “we would like to point out that the provision of essential public services to the people of County Wexford will continue and that all measures necessary to maintain Wexford County Council’s critical operations have been put in place.” “It is prudent of course that we seek to minimise risk of infection for everyone at this time and with this in mind... for the foreseeable future, public visits to our offices will only be accommodated in cases of absolute necessity and in these limited cases an appointment must be arranged beforehand.” "Though our offices will be closed to public access, the public can be assured that all our services will continue to operate and public contact with the Council can continue to be made using any of our wide variety of contact methods.” Telephone 053 91 96000
(office hours 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday). 1890 666 777 (out of hours – emergencies only). Email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie. By post: County Hall, Wexford Y35 WY93. Twitter: @wexfordcoco. Website: www.wexfordcoco.ie "Wexford County Council wishes to thank the public for its on-going patience, understanding and support as together we deal with this on-going situation. As always in such times of challenge, members of the public must play their part in the overall response and in this regard, the on-going advice of the HSE, particularly in relation to personal hygiene, social distancing, reporting of symptoms etc. should continue to be followed.” ––––––––––––––––––––––––– due to Covid-19 there will be a once-off four-week extension (from friday 10th april to friday 8th May) to the existing fuel allowance season for those eligible.
Covid-19 Testing Centre, Wexford
This extension will ensure those in receipt of this payment have one less thing to worry about and can remain safe and warm in their homes over the coming weeks. According to Minister Paul Kehoe: “The Covid-19 emergency presents a once-in-a-century challenge to our society and our public services and we are determined... to meet emerging needs and provide comfort to as many as possible.” The Fuel Allowance payment is made to over 370,000 of the most disadvantaged households in the country including pensioners and those with disabilities, who are most at risk of fuel poverty. ––––––––––––––––––––––––– alone – the organisation supporting older people living alone, has welcomed the introduction of practical support phone lines for older and medically vulnerable people by local authorities nationwide, which will increase capacity and resources for those who are most in need. ALONE will work in collaboration with Local Authorities to deliver these services, and the ALONE National Helpline (0818 222024) will continue to provide information, advice, emotional support, and provide telephone support to vulnerable older people. ––––––––––––––––––––––––– for updates on Covid-19: Stay tuned to local radio, follow the Slaney News facebook page, see local press, check the wCC website, follow wCC on twitter, www.hse.ie/coronavirus www.gov.ie/health-covid-19
Need information and advice on COVID-19? Check out: www.hse.ie/coronavirus www.gov.ie/health-covid-19 HSE Helpline: 1850 24 1850
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Cllr.
Cathal Byrne Working for Enniscorthy Town and District
All monthly advice clinics are cancelled until further notice. Apologies for any inconvenience caused. If I can be of any assistance to you or your family in the coming weeks, please get in touch. (085) 146 1164
Proudly serving you during this Covid-19 crisis – normal opening hours – social distancing rules – the safety of our customers and staff is our top priority
cathal.byrne@wexfordmcc.ie
@CathalEByrne
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Slaney Covid-19 News
6 April 2020
Lending a helping hand enniscorthy soccer club, Moyne rangers, has a number of volunteers who are volunteering to help the vulnerable and elderly in the local community with any grocery or medical prescription collections, or indeed any task, that has become difficult for people in recent weeks. The club prides itself on being a pillar of the community and its volunteers are available to anyone who needs assistance. The following can be reached by text or phone: Aidan Browne 087-7753097. Christina Browne 087-292 2372. John Fanning 087-4491208. Darren Quinn 087-0942387. Lisa Browne 087-6764435. Lenny Connolly 087-4662234. It’s great to see many other local sports clubs doing something similar also. n
income Supports in summary: ● Temporary wage subsidy of 70% of take-home pay up to a maximum weekly tax free amount of €410 per week net to help affected companies keep paying their employees. ● Workers who have lost
Essential retailers still open John and Lenny, two of the Moyne Rangers ‘A’ team, on the ball getting an elderly couple’s shopping. Pictured with Pettitt’s Enniscorthy manager Rosaleen Casey.
Entertaining the young ones with children being largely confined to home these days, it’s getting increasingly difficult to keep them all amused. So it’s great to see so many people sharing ideas on
Covid-19: Employee and Business Supports
social media on how to entertain children at this difficult time. One of the best the Slaney News has come across is the Dublin Zoo website (dublin-
zoo.ie). The Zoo has webcams situated around the site so one can look at the animals for free. A good time to check in is around 2-2.30pm when the animals are being fed. n
all non-essential retail outlets are closed to members of the public. all remaining retail outlets are implementing social distancing. the following is an indicative list of essential retail outlets: 1. Retail and wholesale sale of food, beverages and newspapers in non-specialised and specialised stores. 2. Retail sale of household consumer products necessary to maintain the safety and sanitation of residences and businesses. 3. Pharmacies/chemists and retailers providing pharmaceuticals, pharmaceutical or dispensing services. 4. Retail sale of medical and orthopaedic goods in specialised stores. 5. Fuel stations and heating fuel providers. 6. Retail sale of essential items for the health and welfare of animals, including animal feed and medicines, animal food, pet food and animal supplies including bedding. 7. Laundries and drycleaners. 8. Banks, post offices and credit unions. 9. Retail sale of safety supply materials (work clothes, Personal Protective Equipment, for example). businesses that can only offer emergency call-out or delivery services: 1. Opticians/optometrists. 2. Retailers involved in the repair of motor vehicles, motorcycles and bicycle repair and related facilities (tyre sales and repairs for example). 3. Hardware stores, builders’ merchants and stores that provide hardware products necessary for home and business maintenance, sanitation and farm equipment, supplies and tools essential for gardening/farming/agriculture. 4. Retail sale of office products and services for individuals working from home and for businesses. 5. Retailers providing electrical, IT and phone sales, repair and maintenance services for home. n
●
●
their jobs due to the crisis can receive an enhanced emergency COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment of €350 per week. The COVID-19 illness payment will also be increased to €350 per week. The self-employed will be
eligible for the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment of €350. ● Enhanced protections for people facing difficulties with their mortgages, rent or utility bills. Information on supports can be found on: www.gov.ie n
Caitlin Clauson is a 21-year-old third-year student from Bunclody who is studying at St. Angela’s College in Sligo. For World Poetry Day on 21st March she composed the following topical poem.
COVID-19 By Caitlin Clauson In a time not too far away, we will be back To the way of life before this virus attack. Back to hugging, meeting up with friends and embracing, Back to pubs and restaurants and even handshaking. Most have never lived through a pandemic this great, That has changed so much at such a quick rate. Humans are amazing, doing all that they can, The nation in unison, a brotherhood of man. From doctors to hauliers to those stocking the shelves All thinking about others and not just themselves We’ve Nurses and Civil Servants and the Army The minister of health and our local GP The teachers and lecturers uploading classes And students logging on to learn in their masses It’s true the procrastination game is strong But the tutors are there to help us along Home-schooling children is a new concept too With some parents ready to eat their own shoe. I believe “Google Translate” has been a lifesaver And student teachers offering help as a favour. To production staff and all you behind the scene To Ministers and TDs working as a team Journalists and Reporters who keep us up to date Chemists and grocery staff working until late Lads who graduated early from Templemore And every single person on the hospital floor The newest doctors to those “on call for Ireland” The old and the young, I virtually shake your hand And to everyone that I have not specified I am so proud of this country, nationwide For all your hard work to keep the country running I applaud you immensely, your work has been stunning Thank you for getting us out of all types of scrapes As Leo himself said, “not all heroes wear capes” From Cork to Antrim, from Malin Head to Rosslare It’s amazing to see how much we all care Panic buying for sanitiser and loo roll So many lost their jobs and are now on the dole Without work one must feel so very adrift No nights out in Copper’s trying to get “the shift” All of the nightclubs have their doors shut tightly Matches cancelled, theatres closed and quite rightly We must “pull together by staying apart” Each and every one of us has to play our part If we’ve learned anything, it’s how to wash our hands So, chill with close family and have a few cans Just binge out on Netflix or clean your bedroom Don’t be complaining, just pull out your broom Catch up on what you’ve missed on Facebook and Insta And perhaps if you really want download Tinder Clean out your kitchen cupboards or make a cake Or maybe teach your children how to sew and bake Watch celebrities’ concerts on Instagram Live Or go hiking in the mountains and feel alive Just complete your bucket list while you have the chance If you don’t have one make one, your life it will enhance! Use Facetime to check in on those who are confined See if they need anything, in essence be kind So, paint a picture, read a book or write a poem, We are in this together, no one is alone. There will be casualties and sorrow and pain And the economy will be put under great strain We will get through this, though must work as a team, But I know you will not defeat us, Covid-19. n
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CALLING ALL MUSICIANS... YOUNG, OLD, BEGINNERS AND PROS: Dust off your instruments and get ready to join Craic agus Ceol for ISPCC Childline. Starting Tuesday 7th April at 9am, we will be uploading an Irish traditional tune with the notes and a recording to help you learn the tunes. You have until 5pm on Wednesday 8th April to upload a video of you and/or other members in your household playing the tune. It will then be up to us to compile all the entries we get to make our very own virtual grupa-cheoil. We may not be able to attend our music lessons and music groups and we may not be able to attend the Fleadh Cheoil and other musical events. But that doesn't mean we can't bring them all to us.
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We hope to upload new tunes every second day and so we should have 12 amazing performances by the end of April! If you enjoy playing and learning these tunes or if you prefer watching our performances we ask you kindly to donate (however big or small) to our link for ISPCC Childline: www.idonate.ie/craicagusceolforispcc So start tuning those fiddles and stringing your banjos and get ready for a month full of Trad! Huge thank you to Grafton Digital who have kindly donated their services and expertise to help join our grupa-cheoil together while we stay apart!
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Slaney Covid-19 News
10
TOWN TALK
WITH
KEITH DOYLE
LOCKED DOWN BUT NOT LOCKED OUT. WE ARE IRISH, REMEMBER! Oh how life has changed utterly and in such a short time too. I even had to update this column on a couple of occasions after writing it initially because Covid-19 measures kept being ramped up. One can argue a lot of things but we did get fair warning of how this would play out. We watched CHINA and ITALY and SPAIN and their struggles with this virus. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all at this time. IRELAND is now on the start of what they call the curve. Preparations have been worked
on for this phase. We will now see what difference the social distancing has had in slowing the virus. We are in a phase of no return. So what do we do now? Stay calm, keep indoors. Keep washing our hands, listen to the daily advice given, keep six feet away from neighbours and look out for each other. We all wish life was as simple as that. Some people had difficulty in observing the social distancing stage. Everyone will have issues adapting to our new reality. I was struck with great emotion watching the ITALIANS singing from their balconies.
Coronavirus COVID-19
Coronavirus COVID-19 Public Health Advice
To slow the spread of coronavirus vulnerable people are being asked to cocoon For people most at risk, we are giving special advice called cocooning. Who should cocoon?
Where can I get help?
> Everyone aged 70 or over > Everyone living in a residential home or long-term care > People who have serious medical conditions that make them vulnerable, like: organ transplant recipients, people undergoing cancer treatment,
> The Government is arranging for each county council or local authority to set up supports for access to food, essential household supplies and medicines > ALONE is providing a telephone support line, seven days a week from 8am – 8pm 0818 222 024
severe respiratory conditions, rare diseases that increase the risk of infections, pregnant women who have signi昀cant heart disease.
> You can contact HSE Live 1850 24 1850 for information and advice on health services > For factual, updated information on coronavirus, go to hse.ie
What does cocooning mean? It means you should stay at home at all times and avoid face-toface contact. This is for the next two weeks initially. Family, carers, neighbours and our public services will help ensure you have the support you need.
Every person needs to follow these 6 key steps to prevent coronavirus
Do > Stay at home at all times > Arrange for food or medication deliveries to be left at the door
Stop
Distance
Wash
shaking hands or hugging when saying hello or greeting other people
yourself at least 2 metres (6 feet) away from other people, especially those who might be unwell
your hands well and often to avoid contamination
If you live with a person who needs to be cocooned
Cover
Avoid
Clean
Even though it is hard, try to stay 1 metre apart from vulnerable people in your home.
your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing and discard used tissue
touching eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands
and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
> If you have a garden or balcony, spend time outside for fresh air > Keep in touch with people over the phone or online if you have access > Keep yourself mobile by getting up and moving as much as possible > Try to spend time doing things you enjoy indoors
> Go outside your home and garden > Have visitors to your home, except for essential carers
Protection from coronavirus. It’s in our hands.
Ireland is operating a delay strategy in line with WHO and ECDC advice
Five key BOI branches in Co. Wexford to remain open during Covid-19 crisis Wexford, where normal opening hours and service will
People’s defiance and resilience not shown since the second world war. The IRISH motto should be the same as the military slogan: ‘NO ONE LEFT BEHIND’. I do know many elderly have self-isolated in their homes for some time. Afraid and vulnerable, I would say so. Keep an eye out, knock on their door, and shout in the window – only if they know you though. I am aware that Wexford County Council has activated a community response action group with all the emergency responders. All GAA clubs and
other groups will be notified of any cry for help in their area. That shows communities working at their best. The Gardaí have a list of volunteers who can be contacted to assist if needed. The message is – there is help there if required. Don't be afraid to call out. Wexford Co. Council or the Gardaí will co-ordinate things. This will last for a while. It’s time to show character. Time to show compassion. It’s time to step up and show what we are made of, and as a nation we will. Have you not heard? WE ARE IRISH after all. STAY SAFE. n
Keep an eye on your elderly neighbours.
Hope & Dream 10 – new date! Hope and dream 10, 2020, will be run to raise funds and awareness for the Hope Cancer Support Centre and County wexford Hospice Homecare Service, but it won’t happen in april as originally planned, but on a new date – Sunday 4th october 2020 (subject to ongoing advice from the HSe). The goal is still to register 2,500 people this year, and have each participant raise as much money as possible for Hope and Hospice. All sponsorship money raised will go directly to the two charities (60% to Hope and 40% to Hospice) and race costs will be paid for by the event’s invaluable sponsors. Since 2012, an amazing €1,154,224 has been raised! This
money has made a huge difference to the quality of life for many people. However, new services are always in demand and, with your help, the two chosen charities can develop services further in 2020. Online registration is open n o w a t w w w. h o p e a n d dream10.com so sign up now to be part of this fantastic event on Sunday 4th October 2020. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– your questions answered: Question: I have already registered for the race. Do I need to register again for the race on October 4th? Answer: No, your registration is still valid for the race on October 4th. Question: I have already received my sponsorship card.
Is this still valid for the race on October 4th? Answer: Yes. Question: When can I return my sponsorship card and money and pick up my race pack? Answer: You can return your sponsorship card and money and pick up your race pack in The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, on Friday October 2nd or Saturday October 3rd 2020 (open from 10am to 8pm both days). Please note that in order to comply with Auditor requirements, we cannot accept return of sponsorship money before these dates. The organisers thank you for your understanding and continued support of the wonderful Hope and Dream 10! n
Motor trade – decimated
Don’t
bank of ireland is making changes to its branch network to ensure their resources are focused on services most in demand during the Coronavirus pandemic. 101 locations will temporarily close in Ireland during the pandemic. All Bank of Ireland branches will continue to provide ATM services. the following branches will remain open in Co. wexford: Gorey, Bunclody, Enniscorthy, New Ross,
6 April 2020
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continue for the foreseeable future. n
the Society of the irish Motor industry (SiMi) recently released official new vehicle statistics. new car registrations for March were down 63% (6,174) when compared to March 2019 (16,687). registrations year to date are also down 20.5% (51,015) on the same period last year (64,126). Light Commercials vehicles (LCV) are down 52.9% (1,434) compared to March last year (3,044) and year to date are down 15.2% (9,378). HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are up 17.67% (313) in comparison to March 2019 (266). Year to date HGV's are up 12.59% (993). Used car imports for March (4,656) have seen a decrease
Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General
of 48.1% on March 2019 (8,970). Year to date imports are down 34.9% (17,471) on 2019 (26,832). Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General, pledged that the motor
trade would do whatever it could to support the fight against Covid-19, as the health of our nation’s people is their top priority. Commenting on the vehicle market figures, Mr Cooke said: “The Motor Industry and its employees, like so many industries, is feeling the devastating impact of Covid-19. Even before the crisis commenced, the new car market was in decline, and this fall has accelerated rapidly in the last fortnight with new car activity down nearly two-thirds on last year. Whatever the duration of this crisis, once we emerge, we will need to see decisive and ambitious action from Government to protect the nearly 50,000 jobs in our sector.” n
Covid-19: survival guide for parents not sure what to do with the kids during this Covid-19 crisis? If you’re running out of ideas check out the National Adult Literacy Agency’s website for parents called Help
My Kid Learn.ie (www.helpmykidlearn.ie). It includes hundreds of fun activities that can be done in the home or outside. And best of all, the activities will help children to learn without
them even realising it. All you have to do is enter your child’s age into the website and you will find lots of suitable fun activities to do with them. Now relax! n
Slaney Covid-19 News
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New Business Continuity Voucher available through Local Enterprise Office Wexford: The new Business Continuity Voucher is now available through Local Enterprise Office Wexford and is open to sole traders and companies across every business sector locally that employ up to 50 people, the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Heather Humphreys TD has announced. The voucher is worth up to €2,500 in third party consultancy costs and can be used by companies and sole traders in Co. Wexford to develop short and long-term strategies to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic. The goal is to help business owners make informed decisions about what immediate measures and actions should be taken to protect staff and sales. Making the announcement, Minister Humphreys TD said: “I know that this is a very worrying time for businesses. As part of the package of supports that I announced earlier this month, I am making a €2,500 voucher available through the Local Enterprise Offices to enable enterprises to avail of vital business continuity advice. This will assist them to develop strategies to deal with the Covid-19 outbreak.”
A range of supports are available for businesses impacted by Covid-19 through your Local Enterprise Office: Business Continuity Vouchers which are worth €2,500 can be used by companies and sole traders to develop short-term and long-term strategies to respond to the Covid-19 pandemic (see details opposite). New Covid-19 Business Loan (first 6 months interest & repayment free). The Covid-19 Business Loan from Microfinance Ireland (MFI) in partnership with Local Enterprise Offices, is a Government-funded initiative to support small businesses through the current period of uncertainty. Micro Finance Ireland Covid-19 Loans The Covid-19 Business Loan from Microfinance Ireland is a Government-funded initiative to support small businesses through the current period of uncertainty, aimed at protecting jobs and allowing businesses to continue to trade. If your business has less than 10 employees and you have been impacted by Covid-19 and cannot secure bank finance, the MFI Covid19 Business Loan may be an alternative funding solution. The first 6 months are interest free and a moratorium on repayments for 6 months. For further Information please email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie. Please note that applying through your Local Enterprise Office entitles you to a reduction in the interest rate on your loan. Terms and conditions apply.
She added: “The voucher will give companies access to contingency planning advice that will help them to continue trading through this crisis and to be ready for the recovery phase, when it comes. It will also help firms to prepare a business case so that they can apply for emergency financial interventions through the banks, the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland or Microfinance Ireland.” Cllr Michael Sheehan, Chairman of Wexford County Council, welcomed the launch of the new support, saying: “For a huge number of small businesses, survival is the overriding objective at this time so making the right decisions is crucial. That is where the new Business Continuity Voucher can help.” He added: “The kind of areas that the voucher will help will vary, depending on the needs of each local business, but it will include very important measures such as preparing a business case for application to emergency funding, developing a business continuity plan, reducing variable costs or implementing remote working procedures.” Liz Hore, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office in Wexford, stated that: “The scheme is open to all types of businesses, across all industries and sectors that employ up to 50 people. To apply, companies or sole traders fill out a short application form and submit it directly to Local Enterprise Office Wexford by e-mail. When a company is issued with a voucher for third party consultancy, they begin working directly with a qualified expert, selected from existing Local Enterprise Office and Enterprise Ireland panels.” To apply for the Business Continuity Voucher, companies can submit a short application form to Local Enterprise Office Wexford by e-mail to info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie. Application forms are available to download from www.LocalEnterprise.ie/Wexford Details of other business supports available from the Department of Enterprise, Business and Innovation can be found at https://dbei.gov.ie/en/
Mentoring. Clients work with an experienced mentor to identify solutions to areas of exposure within their business. With advice and guidance from their mentor, clients develop strategies that are more robust, which address issues and maximise potential opportunities around Covid-19 challenges. Trading Online Voucher Scheme. This scheme is a matched-funding opportunity with up to €2,500 available and funding can be used towards eligible costs such as digital marketing strategies, e-commerce websites or app development. LEAN for Micro is available to LEO clients to help small businesses boost competitiveness, increase performance and profitability as well as building resilience within their companies. A number of Online Training Courses will be available over the coming days and weeks, details of which can be found on the Wexford Local Enterprise Office website.
Local Enterprise Office, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. Tel: 053 919 6020 info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie www.LocalEnterprise.ie/Wexford/ Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
For details of the full range of supports available from the Wexford Local Enterprise Office, please check out the website: www.LocalEnterprise.ie/Wexford/ and click on “Covid-19 Business Supports” at the top of the homepage, or contact the office on 053 919 6020 or email info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie
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Slaney Covid-19 News
Irish Wheelchair Association and Covid-19 the irish wheelchair association’s frontline workers are delivering vital services to people with physical disabilities in Co. wexford during this Covid-19 crisis. the organisation has also set up an emergency response team to continue to reach people with disabilities who may become sick and isolated with the coronavirus.
6 April 2020
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Due to the Covid-19 crisis, Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) has been forced to postpone its nationwide fundraising activities and close its network of charity shops. Like many organisations and businesses it has regrettably had to lay off valued staff members temporarily, who have contributed greatly to building its services to where they are today.
The charity supports 4,000 people with physical disabilities every week in Ireland across a spectrum of needs and is now appealing to the public for support. “Each year Irish Wheelchair Association needs to raise €2m over and above our HSE funding to keep our vital services running,” said Caroline Lacey of IWA. “We are aware that it is
a difficult time for everyone and we’re asking people to make a donation to support our frontline workers, if they can afford to." To support the Irish Wheelchair Association visit iwa.ie. For queries about Irish Wheelchair Association’s services call 01 8186400 or email customercare@iwa.ie n
Covid-19 halts construction work on impressive new St Patrick’s School
Wexford County Council – Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
COVID-19
Community Call Helpline Assistance will be provided to vulnerable members of the public.
053 919 6000 Dial 1 c o v i d s u p p o r t @ wex fo rd c o c o . i e
Lines open: 8am - 8pm 7 days per week Please help us locate you by knowing your Eircode. You can Google “Eircode Finder” or use the direct link below:
h ps://finder.eircode.ie
Thank you to all Volunteering Groups who have pledged their support.
The new St Patrick’s School, Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, taking shape on 27th March just prior to construction work shutting down to comply with Covid-19 restrictions.
“Take care of your mental health” – Browne fianna fáil Spokesperson on Mental Health, James browne td, is urging people to look after their mental health as the Covid-19 health crisis continues. Deputy Browne said, “People are understandably anxious during this period of uncertainty and the longer the situation goes on, the higher the stress and anxiety will become. There are people who have lost their jobs, have had to shut their businesses as well as others who are just not coping well with having to limit their social interactions. “I am urging people to take a bit of time and make sure that they are taking the steps to maintain not only their physical health, but also their men-
James Browne TD
tal health. “Simple things like making sure you get out and get some fresh air and doing a bit of exercise can improve your mood, and it’s important to
try and keep your routine as close to normal as possible; that involves getting good sleep. “Social media is great for information, but sometimes we can suffer from information overload so it’s important to try and balance the amount of time we’re spending on our screens. People should also be wary of fake news and stories from non-reputable sources – we should only take guidance from the HSE, our medical experts and sound news organisations. “While we have to limit social interactions with other people, no one need feel cut off. “Talking to other people is so important for our mental health. Phoning, messaging
and group chats using all the various apps and online sites can keep us in contact with our family and friends. Everyone feels nervous and worried about the current situation and talking to other people can really help. “Mental health organisations and charities are continuing to operate their helplines and if you need additional supports they will be there to help. “We all need to look out for each other over these next few weeks and that means minding our mental health. Eating healthily, getting fresh air and staying in touch will all go a long way to helping us through this crisis”, concluded Deputy Browne. n
a dedicated community support call centre has been established by wexford County Council to assist atrisk members of the public in accessing non-emergency and non-medical supports and advice during the current public health emergency. the Call Centre has been established by the new Covid-19 wexford Community response forum, which includes over a dozen agencies and organisations, all focused primarily on ensuring that vulnerable members of the community or those living alone can access deliveries of groceries, medicine and fuels. The role of the Forum is to ensure that there is a coordinated community response in assisting those that may be vulnerable and that all local, voluntary and statutory bodies collaborate in support of our communities and particularly of our most vulnerable members. Members of the Covid-19 we x f o r d C o m m u n i t y response forum include: · Wexford Co. Council · Health Service Executive · An Garda Síochána · Wexford GAA · Wexford IFA · Wexford Community Welfare Service · An Post · Tusla · Wexford Local Development · Red Cross · Civil Defence · Wexford Public Participation Network · Wexford Age Friendly Network · Local Link Wexford · Wexford Citizens Information · Alone · Representatives of the migrant community · Representatives of religious organisations. The new Call Centre and associated helpline is just one
aspect of the Forum’s work, with its core aim being to contribute to the communitywide effort to limit the spread of Covid-19. Through the Forum, Wexford County Council will ensure that the wide variety of groups working across the county to assist those in need do so in an organised, collaborative and targeted way, making the very best use of the many resources available to assist vulnerable persons with their daily needs at this unprecedented time, whether that is collecting medication, food and fuel shopping, or social support and contact. Chief Executive of Wexford Co. Council, Tom Enright, explains, “There are a number of agencies currently doing excellent work in delivering care to older and vulnerable people in our communities. These groups are currently operating independently of each other and our role in Wexford County Council is to provide a targeted, integrated and co-ordinated approach to the delivery of these much needed services to our more vulnerable citizens across the county during the Covid-19 pandemic. "Wexford County Council is ideally placed, both statutorily and regionally, to channel this great work and provide the governance structure in partnership with all stakeholders. This public health crisis has changed life for so many, and we are there to help with that change. Our own staff, whose day-jobs have changed due to this crisis, will be a key resource in the management and operation of this community support programme along with our many partner agencies/groups from all across the county. the Community Call Helpline 053 919 6000 is open from 8:00am to 8:00pm seven days a week. n
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6 April 2020
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Best of luck to Stephen! Cllr Jackser Owens (right) called into Stephen Leacy’s new sports shop on Duffry Hill before it had to temporarily close due to the Covid-19 crisis. Best of luck to Stephen when he reopens the shop soon.
MOCT Trainers Denis O’Connor and Sean McCarthy. Pic: Maria Nolan.
A healthy club is a smart club
Best of luck to Stephen Leacy with his new ‘Enniscorthy Sporting Depot’ sports store on Duffry Hill. Due to Covid-19 the shop is temporarily closed but Stephen can still be contacted on 087-7044036 and also through Instagram and Facebook (Enniscorthy Sporting Depot).
Parenting Today at Enniscorthy Library
Drug Awareness Educator Andy Hargreaves with Enniscorthy Librarian Jarlath Glynn. Pic: Maria Nolan.
i am always extolling the virtues of our library service and i cannot speak highly enough of its Parenting Today series which began in wexford’s libraries before the onset of Covid-19. Some weeks ago, I attended the Drugs Awareness element
of the programme, delivered by Andy Hargreaves in Enniscorrthy Library, aimed at giving parents a greater understanding of today’s drug culture and stressing the need for them to be informed in order to protect their children from it.
Andy, a Drug Educator with the HSE, gave a most thoughtprovoking informal talk on how drugs, including alcohol and tobacco, can affect individuals, families, communities and society. Opening his talk by asking how many of us take drugs i.e. drink and cigarettes, Andy had us all immediately thinking differently about the drugs question. ‘All form of drug taking’, Andy said, ‘is about people wanting to feel different, wanting to be someone different other than themselves even for short periods of time.’ ‘We all drink to feel relaxed, confident, happy, funny, brave, assertive or cool – a drug is any substance, apart from food, that changes the way the body thinks, acts or feels.’ Andy also stressed that simply giving people information does not change their behaviour, ‘There are usually underlying issues that will need to be dealt with, perhaps professionally.’ Andy’s style is easy to listen to and understand and kept the large audience interested throughout. Do keep an eye out for this most important, educational Parenting Programme when it resumes – all free from our library service. – Maria Nolan
this January, rapparees/ Starlights were officially included in the Gaa's Healthy Club project along with two other wexford Clubs – Cloughbawn and Kilmore – all three chosen from 1,500 applications from around the country to join 150 clubs entering phase 4. As part of our Healthy Club Project, we recently hosted a Mental Health & Sport Programme over two consecutive Tuesday evenings delivered by Sean McCarthy and Denis O’Connor of MOCT – McCarthy O’Connor Training & Consultancy. T h e P ro g r a m m e w a s aimed at mentors, coaches and trainers of all our teams for the 2020 season from U-12 to adult, male and female, endeavouring to create among
them an awareness of the mental health and well being of our players, provide them with guidelines to encourage good mental health practices in the club and advise them on how to observe and assist players experiencing any kind of difficulty. As Healthy Club Officer, I believe this to be an essential programme that should be rolled out in all clubs whether they are part of the Healthy Clubs Project or not. Looking after our players’ mental as well as physical well being could be the real element to success. The Programme is expertly delivered by Denis and Sean who have over 50 years experience between them in both mental health and the GAA and provide an informative,
interesting and engaging event, covering many aspects of mental health including stress, loss, bereavement, substance abuse, depression, trauma, eating disorders, bullying and many others. The Programme is delivered with an easy professionalism combined with understanding, empathy and compassion. These men know their subject and their audience, encouraging participation, enjoyment and engagement. Under the Healthy Clubs Project, Rapparees/Starlights will be hosting many similar and related events in the future contributing we hope to Enniscorthy’s new initiative as a SMART town. – Maria Nolan Healthy Club Officer
Claudia needs your support to help Wexford families a campaign has been set up by enniscorthy woman Claudia blaess to raise money for wexford people Helping people – a nonprofit, charity organisation consisting of a small group of volunteers who help provide food and fuel (amongst other things) to people who are having a difficult time. All money raised by Claudia will go towards helping people and families in need in Co. Wexford. Claudia is hoping to raise €1,000 for the charity. Here is a link to the camp a i g n : h t t p s : / / w w w. gofundme.com/f/dkrf9zwexford-people-helpingpeople n
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Local house prices static The price of the average threebed semi in County Wexford remained static at €202,500 in the three months up to the outbreak of Covid-19, according to a national survey carried out by Real Estate Alliance (REA). The price of the average three-bed semi in Gorey is now €230,000, with the area seeing an increase in commuter demand, and average time taken to sell rose from eight weeks to ten. The market remained unchanged this quarter in Wexford Town, with the average price remaining at €175,000, and time taken to sell static at eight weeks. The Q1 REA Average House Price Survey concentrates on the actual sale price of Ireland's typical stock home, the three-bed semi. It gives an accurate picture of the second-hand property market in towns and cities countrywide up to the start of the current crisis, which has seen a sudden slowdown in activity according to REA. Average house prices nationally returned to growth with an increase in activity in the first three months of the year up the outbreak of Covid-19. The price of a threebedroomed semi-detached house across the country rose by 0.14% over the three months
to €235,028, after an annual decline of 0.63% in 2019. “There is no doubt that we saw a stronger market in Q1 up to the start of the curre n t h e a l t h c r i s i s , w i t h increased first-time buyer activity and higher transaction levels than in the second half of 2019,” said REA spokesperson Barry McDonald. “We are suddenly in a time of uncertainty, and a pause button has been pressed on activity, but the fundamental issue of a lack of supply remains. “The recent State interventions are welcome in providing increasing levels of security and certainty to loanapproved buyers.
“Many of our agents are accelerating the move to virtual viewings and online selling methods as the market adapts to the Covid-19 restrictions. “We are in a different place than in 2008, and we will benefit from the effects that the Central Bank’s lending restrictions have had on a market that has experienced conservative rather than rapid growth over the past seven years. “We also don’t have the huge amount of small-time investors that we saw in the crash as they have left the market in an orderly fashion over the past few years,” concluded Mr McDonald. n
Focusing on living well in older age
7 15
SignaCare Bunclody A beautiful riverside setting in the heart of scenic Bunclody.
SignaCare is a new, familyowned, luxury, 62-bed nursing home in the heart of Bunclody, situated in the former Millrace Hotel premises. Signacare was a recent national award winner in the Nursing Homes Ireland awards, with the Excellence in Dining & Nutrition award going to Signacare’s Caroline Murphy-Doran. Services on offer from the caring and expertly trained Bunclody staff, including Director of Nursing Denise SteedO’Doherty, include: long-term residential care, convalescence and respite care, specialist dementia care, individualised health and social care, personalised physiotherapy plans. Fair Deal is also accepted. A very successful Open Afternoon was held in the Bunclody nursing home on Saturday 15th Feb 2020 with music, refreshments and fun, and the best of showband tunes. Contact SignaCare Bunclody by email: info@signacare.ie, or tel: 053 93 76222. n
SignaCare staff members in the impressive surroundings of SignaCare Bunclody.
Keep your social distance!
Gardaí have been on foot, in cars and even on bicycles patrolling Enniscorthy on Covid-19 duty, reminding people of the Government Guidelines on social distancing to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus. NO UNNECESSARY JOURNEYS! Pic: Wexford Garda Division
Antonio's mobility scooter appeal In February, the students of VTOS Enniscorthy held a fundraiser in their centre on Wafer Street, Enniscorthy, for Antonio's mobility scooter appeal. It was a great success with over €500 raised. Thanks to all who helped and supported in any way.
Enniscorthy’ gets an Armed Support Unit An Armed Support Unit (ASU) has been set up in Enniscorthy well ahead of its original planned date of late 2020. It will cover Co. Wexford and neighbouring counties Carlow, Wicklow and Waterford, providing armed assistance to Gardaí throughout these four counties. This specialist firearms unit is now based in Enniscorthy Garda Station where the facilities are up to the standard required by an ASU. Initially the unit will be composed of two teams each with three members but that is likely to increase over the coming months. The availability of an armed response unit on our own doorstep is a welcome development for residents of Enniscorthy and Co. Wexford generally.
ENNISCORTHY RETIREMENT ASSOCIATION Chairperson Valerie Morris, on behalf of the committee, wants to connect with members at this surreal time. “We are all aware of the steps we must take to be safe. It is to be hoped that this will pass sooner than later, but we must be vigilant while it lasts. Keep safe, phone your friends, try to maintain a daily routine to keep sane. I look forward to getting back to normal and seeing you all again soon.” n
Speed limit to rise on old N11 New speed limits on the old N11 road are expected to take effect on Tuesday 14th April 2020 if the Wexford County Council meeting scheduled for Monday 13th April 2020 goes ahead. If the meeting does proceed, the speed limit is expected to return to its previous level of 100km/h on the following sections of the old N11 road:
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R772 (Old N11) Clogh Roundabout to Camolin Village. - R772 (Old N11) Camolin Village to Ferns. - R772 (Old N11) Ferns to Scarawalsh Roundabout. - R772 (Old N 11 ) Enniscorthy to Scurlocksbush Roundabout (Oylegate). The road from Scarawalsh Roundabout to Blackstoops
Roundabout would remain at 80km/h to allow for economic development of that part of Enniscorthy given the links to the new motorway. This is something many Councillors and members of the general public have been calling for since July when the speedlimits on the above sections were reduced following the opening of the new motorway. n
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“A brooding masterclass” The Remedy Club is an Americana/Roots duo comprising KJ McEvoy and Aileen Mythen. Aileen is from a well-known musical family in Ferns, her parents being Sean and Kay Mythen, and she went to school in the F.C.J. Bunclody. She has been singing from a very young age and trained in the Wexford School of Music before studying music at college in Limerick and then training in the Gaiety School of Acting. In recent years, Aileen has been a full-time professional singer and along with husband Kj McEvoy (guitar and vocals) they form The Remedy Club and they have just released their new album True Hand True Heart to critical acclaim. The new album was recorded in Room and Board Studios, Nashville, USA, and produced by 5time Grammy award-winning producer Ray Kennedy (Steve Earle, Lucinda Williams, Willie Nelson and Emmylou Harris). The album hosts an array of musical legends including Lex Price on bass (Neko Case, KD Lang), Lynn Williams on drums (The Wallflowers) and multi instrumentalist and Rodney Crowell’s go to player, Rory Hoffman. Jackie Hayden, in a recent Hotpress review, praised the album in glowing terms: ‘Heart stopping harmonies’, ‘Second albums have rarely sounded so effortlessly accomplished and so complete’, ‘Their vocals sparkle with spontaneous vitality’ and 'Outrageously good in every department’. Lonesome Highway has kindly allowed us to reproduce their review in full – see below.
Lovers, Legends & Lost Causes, released in 2017, was the first instalment in the career remodelling of husband and wife team Aileen Mythen and Kj McEvoy. Having recorded two albums previously as B and The Honeyboy they regrouped as The Remedy Club. The change in name did not spell a dramatic migration from their musical style, more so a new start with a blank canvas and a determination to prevail in an increasingly difficult marketplace. That debut album was recorded locally but mastered by Ray Kennedy at his Room
and Board Studio in Berry Hill, Nashville. This time around they have gone one step further by packing their bags for Music City to record True Hand True Heart at that same studio. The production was overseen by Kennedy, whose accolades include 5 Grammy Awards, one of which he won for Steve Earle’s excellent The Revolution Starts... Now. I’m reminded of the production on that album on The Remedy Club’s latest, which is similarly loaded with positive energy and is a considered mix of roots and country with a splash of blues on the side.
A word from the bAnd... “Working alongside producer Ray Kennedy was a completely immersive and creatively fulfilling experience for us. There are many themes covered in the album including love, loss and a longing for unity and peace in place of division and building walls between us. Ultimately the songs are about humanity’s compassion and kindness over power and greed and finding that connection with ourselves and others. We think we need music now more than ever and it is wonderful to see so many online gigs and more people listening to radio again and buying albums, which all help to soothe us during these tough times. Music can be a great uniter and has the ability to bring us all together from every corner of the world and lift our collective spirits. We hope our new album does just that.” n
The album kicks off in fine style with the raucous Sweet Symphony. The track is very much where Lucinda Williams’ energy is at present with a power house sound and compelling beat – it’s also the first single from the album. Reclaim is an immense and muscular sound, with Mythen’s booming vocals reaching glass-breaking levels and McEvoy’s screeching guitar not far behind. The title track has a rolling blues-tinged sound, fleshed out by some slick guitar riffs and razorsharp harmonica bursts. Nonetheless, it’s not all fire and brimstone and the album also delivers songs that console and soothe, with Mythen displaying the ability to do quiet every bit as well as hell raising. Let The Good Times Roll is a wistful conventional country song and Time Won’t Wait For Me is simply divine, as impressive a ballad as I’ve heard this year. Mournful p e d a l s t e e l f ro m D a v i d Murphy features on both of these tracks. The Remedy Club’s prized assets are a combination of Mythen’s gorgeous vocals and McEvoy’s guitar skills. Both are in evidence here alongside well-crafted songs and great harmonies from the duo. They’ve poured their hearts and souls into this recording and the results are a hugely convincing album that should further enhance their fast-growing reputation both locally and farther afield. A brooding masterclass in Americana from Wexford via Nashville and one that you’re well advised to investigate. Review by Declan Culliton of Lonesome Highway www.lonesomehighway.com Ireland’s leading Hardcore Country, Americana and Roots resource with reviews, radio shows, interviews and features. Check it out! n
‘TRUE HAND TRUE HEART’ by The Remedy Club, what the critics say... “Second albums have rarely sounded so effortlessly accomplished and so complete.” “Heart stopping harmonies... Mythen’s unerring vocal a sheer delight... Outrageously good in every department... Ireland's best kept musical secret.” (HOTPRESS MAGAZINE) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “Phew... it's a stunner... Grungy guitar and honeyed voice.” “Ireland has produced a staggering
amount of world famous and world class musicians over the last 100 years or so; and it's no great stretch for The Remedy Club to be thought of as Best in Class too.” (ROCKING MAGPIE) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “Mythen's voice knows no boundaries and McEvoy is a first rate guitarist.” “True Hand True Heart deserves to propel The Remedy Club in front of a much wider audience... Among
today's top country roots artists.” (YOUR LIFE IN A SONG) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “Hand on heart this is most definitely one club you really do want to be a member of.” (FOLK RADIO, UK) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “Simply divine... A brooding masterclass in Americana from Wexford via Nashville and one that you’re well advised to investigate.” (LONESOME HIGHWAY) n
Enniscorthy Musical Society forced to postpone ‘The Producers’ Unfortunately, like so many other events, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Enniscorthy Musical Society’s staging of their show The Producers has had to be postponed. It made the decision to postpone in early March in the hope that it would be in a position to stage the show in the summer, however, due to the ever changing position in these uncertain
times, it cannot confirm new dates as of yet. The Society has a message for all its patrons: “Our only wish at present is that everyone keeps safe and well in these unprecedented times. The safety and wellbeing of everyone is of paramount importance to us. We hope at some date, in the not too distant future, to be in a position to bring our show to the
stage and make everyone laugh. There is light at the end of the tunnel and we will come through these strange times! As soon as we can confirm that it is safe to stage our show, we will do so. We would also like to express our appreciation to everyone who supports us and we will endeavour to put on a show that people will never forget!” n
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17
rl e be slim fo with
Slimming World
ALL DANCE DATES CANCELLED!
Enniscorthy Groups are TEMPORARILY CLOSED but the group leaders can be contacted on the telephone numbers below:
UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Waterfront Pool & Leisure Centre Tel: Tony 087-1785384 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Enniscorthy Rugby Club Tel: Edel 085-8103336 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Salt n Pepper Pot Restaurant Co. Wexford Community Workshop Bellefield. Tel: Tony 087-1785384
slimmingworld.ie 01 656 9696
L I T N U D E L L E C CAN E C I T O N R E Sunday Nights H T FUR (e
Community Centre Templeshannon Enniscorthy at 8.00pm
€1,100 Prize Fund
St. Senan’s Parish Fundraiser For more information contact: (053) 9261729 or 086-7913919
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‘Relay for Life’ Charity Ball Check with venue about these upcoming events as many may be cancelled or postponed.
‘Relay for Life’ Charity Ball in Clayton Whites Hotel, Wexford, 28th February, 2020. Above left: Bernie Stone and Imelda Lawlor. Above right: Kay Barry, Melinda Fitzpatrick, Susan Broaders, Shanan Bulger and Jessica Meyler. Below left: Cathy Cullimart and Catherine Fortune. Below right: Marie Anne Moran, Lorna Kearney, Elaine Roche and Cathy Shannon.
I AM BABA. 21 April 2020, 10am, 11am, 12 noon. A show for babies aged 0-12 months created by Anna Newell. Strictly One Adult per Child. Funded by the Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaíon Presented in association with The Civic, Tallaght. I AM BABA is a theatre adventure for babies created by internationally renowned theatre director Anna Newell (www.annanewell.co.uk) and composer David Goodall. Their shows for early years have been seen on five continents, off-Broadway and in every single Sure Start in Belfast. I AM BABA – a magical adventure of song, lights and textures for babies aged 0-12 months. It’s a show about identity, agency and personhood. For babies. I AM BABA is full of gorgeous live harmony singing and playful objects – jellyfish-like scarves dance and tiny lights fly in this intimate immersive performance which happens inside a specially designed tent that holds just 6 babies – each with their adult guest. I AM BABA was the International Early Childhood Arts Commission funded by the four Dublin Local Authorities in 2017 through Arts Council Ireland’s Invitation to Collaboration Fund. This national tour is funded by the Arts Council. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– "JAZZ ON AN APRIL EVENING" WITH MELANIE O'REILLY & TRIO. 24 Apr 2020. International jazz singer Melanie O'Reilly and her band return for another exciting night of vocal jazz! Great American Songbook standards mixed with Melanie's own original Celtic Jazz sound which she has developed as her unique trademark, creating a unique fusion of jazz and Irish traditional music. For this special concert she and her ensemble will be delighting Wexford audiences as a kick-off leading up to International Jazz Day, celebrating jazz as an international music in "its role of uniting people in all corners of the globe". She is joined by her stellar trio, the highly acclaimed Kevin Lawlor - drums, Peter Voegeler - bass, Luke Howard - piano. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– MAGICAL JOURNEYS with renowned storyteller JOE BRENNAN. 26 April 2020, at 2.30pm. Wexford storyteller Joe Brennan will dip into his collection of traditional stories to bring the audience on ‘Magical Journeys’. Each performance is unique as he invites his audience on a journey that will surprise, inspire, challenge, cause the odd fright even and many laughs. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– KEVIN LAWLOR "STRAMASH" ALBUM LAUNCH. 30 Apr 2020. Following up from the letter received from Herbie Hancock on behalf of International Jazz Day acknowledging the 2019 event in Wexford Arts Centre, Kevin Lawlor presents the launch of his 4th album titled 'Stramash'. The album features long form compositions with improvising sections in the style of contemporary jazz & improvised music as well as music with more complex form, rhythm and time. The album also features a Storm Suite inspired by recent weather events. The music was recorded on 10th November 2019 in the National Opera House with the support of Artlinks and Wexford County Council Arts Department. Kevin Lawlor - drums. Patrick Molitor - keys & piano. Kelan Walsh - saxophone. Colm Lindsay - guitar. Jack Rufus Kelly - bass. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SHAKALAK - CURSED MURPHY VERSUS THE RESISTANCE - TEN OUNCE MOUSE. 1 May 2020. €10. The homeless crisis is beyond a crisis: it’s a state of emergency. On May 1st, three bands, Shakalak, Cursed Murphy Versus the Resistance, and Ten Ounce Mouse, will join forces for a special one-off show at Wexford Arts Centre, with all profits going to Focus Ireland. Don’t miss what promises to be one of the gigs of 2020, in service of homelessness relief. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Plus art exhibitions, workshops, classes, childen’s activities, etc. See www.wexfordartscentre.ie for details. Tel: 053-9123764.
LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS…
BREE COUNTRY FEST Co. Wexford's newest Country Music Festival will take place in Byrnes Grain Store, Bree Y21 EK46, on 4th September 2020 with an impressive line-up: Stuart Moyles, Cliona Hagan, Derek Ryan. More details in next month’s issue.
E.V.C. Hair-raising Success
Congratulations to the Enniscorthy Vocational College Hairdressing Students who took 1st Prize in the recent National Overall College Hairdressing Competition in Cork... you can see why!!!
Check with local venues about any upcoming events as many events planned for the coming weeks will be cancelled or postponed.
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SONGS AND TALL TALES OF JERRY FISH. Friday 15th May. TICKET SALES SUSPENDED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Jerry Fish is renowned as much for his showmanship as he is for his music. He's a carnival creator, circus ringmaster, a playwright, singer, songwriter and poet. Spawned from his Electric Picnic shows which became so popular that they gave him his very own stage. Jerry is now returning to theatres to bring us his enchanting “Songs & Tall Tales of Jerry Fish” every show a unique live theatrical experience that dissolves all boundaries between performer and audience. With two Platinum selling solo albums, an MTV award and IRMA Music Award, and a reputation as a supreme and spectacular showman, we invite you to join Jerry Fish to ‘Celebrate’ the life of Ireland’s Greatest Showman. Tickets €22.
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JMA - BOB DYLAN AND NEIL YOUNG TRIBUTE NIGHT. 19 June 2020. In a stunning show JMA will pay homage to some of Bob Dylan and Neil Young’s greatest music featuring classics such as ”Like A Rolling Stone” and “Cortez the Killer” whilst also throwing in some lesser known tracks and a few new additions to their set list. Early booking is advised. Tickets €12, starts 8.30pm.
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JIM WHITE. 4 Jul 2020. Jim White gets around. When he’s not releasing his own critically acclaimed solo albums, he splits time producing records for other songwriters, exhibiting his visual art in galleries and museums across the US and Europe and publishing awardwinning fiction. His sixth solo studio album, the bizarrely titled Waffles, Triangles & Jesus, is a mind-bending joy ride of sonic influences featuring a bevy of his hometown Athens’ roots musicians, plus west coast indie darlings Dead Rock West, and rock and roll maverick Holly Golightly. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Plus art exhibitions, workshops, classes, childen’s activities etc. See www.presentationcentre.ie for details. Tel: (053) 9233000. Always lots happening at The Presentation Centre.
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Titanic will float again in 2021 Very much planning ahead!!! Due to the unprecedented circumstances our country is facing with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and following expert advice, Wexford Light Opera Society (WLOS) has made the decision to postpone its production of Titanic The Musical until next year – April 2021. The new dates will be from Monday 26thApril 2021 until Saturday 1st May 2021 in the National Opera House, Wexford. The National Opera House, which is managing the Box Office, will be contacting all existing ticket holders for Titanic the Musical by email to inform them that tickets will automatically be transferred to the new dates in 2021 (e.g. if you have booked tickets for Monday 27th April 2020, your tickets will now be valid for Monday 26th April 2021, and the same seating will be reserved for your booking). Any additional enquiries can be emailed to: boxoffice@nationaloperahouse.ie. Wexford Light Opera Society and the National Opera House would like to thank you for your patience and
TO ADVERTISE ON OUR ENTERTAINMENT PAGES PLEASE CALL 087-2403310
Eric Hayes, Chairperson, Wexford Light Opera Society.
ongoing support during this time. Wexford Light Opera Society, while disappointed with this announcement, is committed to ensuring the safety of its members, cast, production team, volunteers, audience, supporters, family and friends, as well as the local community and vulnerable people within society. WLOS would like to thank its sponsors, especially Bolands Mercedes, Caulfield Financial Ltd, Wexford Credit Union,
Clayton Whites Hotel, Whitford House Hotel, MJ O’Connor Solicitors, Slimming World and Lisa McDonald Solicitors for their support and it looks forward to working with them again for Titanic the Musical in 2021. WLOS is conscious that many other musical societies are in the same boat and have had to cancel or postpone their productions at this time. But musical life goes on in Wexford and WLOS is still planning to proceed with its anual sell-out run of Hits from the Musicals, which will be held in Clayton Whites Hotel during the Wexford Opera Festival Season. The dates are Monday 26th October until Thursday 29th October 2020 at 8pm each night. Tickets are not available at this time but will go on sale at a later date through the National Opera House. Finally, WLOS would like to thank each and every one who has been in touch, by phone, or sent messages of support. It is very much appreciated by everyone involved in Wexford Light Opera Society. n
ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY EVENTS For information on all upcoming Enniscorthy Library events see “Enniscorthy Library” on Facebook or contact Library 053-9236055.
Check with local venues and organisers about cancellations or postponements West End Performer Aileen Donohoe presents ‘Sing-A-Long-A-Musicals’
National Opera House, Wexford, Saturday, 23rd May 2020 at 7.30pm (special kids matinee at 3pm)
West End star Aileen Donohoe invites you to join her as she sings the biggest hits from Broadway, the West End and Hollywood and where YOU help do the singing! Check your inhibitions in at the door of the National Opera House, Wexford, and join Aileen and her band for the biggest SingAlong Wexford has ever seen! The words will be projected up on a big screen for you to make this the musical theatre karaoke of the decade. Having toured the country with her hit one-woman show, A Date With Doris, she quickly realised that audiences can’t resist singing along with the performers – whether they were meant to or not! So now Aileen and her live band have created Sing-A-Long-A-Musicals and will lead the audience through the best loved musical theatre and movies songs from The Sound of Music, Les Miserables, Grease, Mamma Mia, etc. And Aileen has also added a special one-hour-long matinee Sing-Along especially designed for kids of all ages who can join in with all their favourite songs
from The Greatest Showman, Hairspray, Grease, Frozen and of course all the Disney favourites. Rosslare native Aileen Donohoe studied at Trinity College, Dublin and at The Royal Academy of Music, London. Her first professional role was in Kurt Weill’s One Touch of Venus at The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and subsequently Carmen, La Bohème and Cosi Fan Tutte at the Royal Festival Hall. In the West End, Aileen performed for five years in the smash-hit musical Wicked. Other West End shows included Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty’s Theatre, London. Aileen performed the lead role of Donna in Mamma Mia at The Point, Dublin, as part of the show’s first tour. Now based in Wexford, Aileen teaches voice at Wexford School of Music, The Irish College of Music Theatre, Dublin Institute of Technology and American College, Dublin. With her husband Pete, she founded Music Maestros at Wexford Arts Centre and has performed with
Wexford Light Opera Society in Chess, Evita, 9 to 5 and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Joining Aileen on stage with his band is West End musical director, Robert Scott, whose recent production of Mack and Mabel with Michael Ball was performed at The Bord Gáis Energy Theatre. Robert was musical director for the West End productions Singin’ in the Rain, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and She Loves Me and is composer of the original musical scores for Peter Pan and Sleepless (based on the Hollywood Classic film Sleepless in Seattle). Director Nigel West takes the helm of this one-off special event, having directed musicals all over the world. SING-A-LONG-A-MUSICALS runs for one night only in the National Opera House, Wexford, on Saturday 23 May at 7.30pm, with a special kids matinee at 3pm. Tickets are €27/€25 (concession) for the evening show and €12 for the matinee and are available on www.nationaloperahouse.ie. For more information visit www.aileendonohoe.com n
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World premiere in Enniscorthy Wild in the Country, a new play by Paul O’Reilly, was greeted with peels of laughter and loud applause at The Presentation Centre recently as Enniscorthy Drama Group staged it for the very first time for its World Premiere! We are extremely proud here in Enniscorthy to say that this hilarious tragic comedy was written by an Enniscorthy man, Paul O’Reilly, directed by an Enniscorthy man, Fintan Kelly, set in Enniscorthy in 1977 and brilliantly performed by an amazingly talented local cast – Julie Fox, Pat Murphy, Kate Breen, Fergal Kelly, Alan Kinsella and Niall Holohan. The play is extremely well written and according to the playwright, ‘The Script is bold enough but Fintan Kelly’s stamp is all over it making it even more brazen.’ Well brazen or not, the packed houses in The Presentation Centre loved it and completely fell in love with Rose, the star of the show. When we meet Rose, played superbly by Julie Fox, we admire her wanton ways, her flamboyant nature and her fun loving character but as the play develops we begin to realise that Rose is almost completely dysfunctional. She seems to be unable to feed herself or her unfortunate hen-pecked husband, Wolfie, or keep their home in any semblance of order, and even though we laugh at the way Rose treats the staid and timid piano teacher Wolfie, constantly scoffing at his lack of sexual prowess and his inability to satisfy her, we sense the domestic violence that eventually manifests itself. Pat Murphy is excellent in the difficult role of the pigeon-loving Wolfie and with his classical music, old-fashioned dickie bows and tired ways, he is poles apart from
Above left: Kate Breen and Pat Murphy in a scene from ‘Wild in the Country’. Above centre: Joan Rafter and Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan at the play. Above right: Fergal Kelly and Julie Fox in a scene from the play. Below left: Helena Dempsey, Sandra Walsh and Julie Fox. Below centre: Gemma Delaney, Director Fintan Kelly and Emily Courtney. Below right: Alan Kinsella and Julie Fox. All pics: Maria Nolan.
Rose’s sex idol – The King – Elvis. Rose’s out-of-hand obsession with Elvis to the point that she believes him to be coming to play in Enniscorthy ‘in the hut beside the 21 steps’ is evidence enough of her unstable state of mind which visibly frightens the demure, sedate Marie – coyly played by Kate Breen – yet she does nothing to help or reach out to Rose, rather her focus is on Wolfie in whom she recognises a kindred spirit. Rose’s Elvis adoration is a godsend for the flirtatious handyman Johnno who reaps
S.O.L. AUDITION Do you or someone you know have a talent for singing, playing music, dancing, acrobatics, comedy, Irish dancing, juggling, magic or anything at all!? Would you or they like an opportunity to join the Sing Out Loud (S.O.L.) frontline on the National Opera House stage in November 2020? If so, then SOL is looking for you and is now calling for performers of all ages to submit digital auditions! It can be a YouTube link or something you record on your phone! Please make sure in your email that you tell SOL your name, age, contact details and where in the country you are! Email address is: audition@singoutloud.ie Closing date for digital auditions is Friday 5th of June 2020. If you are under 18, please make sure that a parent or guardian makes the submission on your behalf.
the benefits of her sexual desire for The King. Alan Kinsella – the vain, playful Johnno has no qualms about taking advantage of her mental frailty, it actually never occurs to him to do anything else. In almost every scene Rose is seen swigging neat brandy by the neck, trying to seduce Johnno and the local priest Fr. Billy, remarkably well done by Fergal Kelly, with exactly the right amounts of hesitancy, eagerness and lustfulness yet no-one seems to consider that she might be depressed or an alcoholic or in need of psychiatric help.
Indeed, all the pillars of society seem to fail Rose – her teacher-husband, the local clergy, the political activist and even the American cop she eventually meets in Graceland, played very subtly by the statuesque Niall Holohan – all of them recognise that Rose is mad to the point of violence which is brought out very cleverly by her fixation on both the scissors and the frying pan and Marie who appears so terrified of her that the audience are fully expecting a very tragic ending. But the ending is only
Enniscorthy input into new movie Enniscorthy actor, Michael Joseph Cloke, is a regular performer in movies and TV series made here in Ireland. One of his most recent outings is in the movie/documenraty I Am Patrick which premiered on Netflix on 12th March and got a limited cinema release in the USA on 17th and 18th March. An interviewee in the film is none other than Fr Billy Swan, priest of St Aidan’s parish, Enniscorthy, who is an expert on St Patrick. So make sure to check it out on Netflix soon! n
tragic and sad for Rose herself. As she walks away we are left wondering what will become of this mentally-challenged woman, where will she go, who will take care of her because the bottom line is we all love Rose, even the madness and the wildness of her. But it is 1977 Enniscorthy, and we can remember back then when there were no systems in place and mental illness was kind of accepted in the community as someone being ‘a bit odd’, ‘mad as a hatter’, ‘a bit eccentric’ or ‘doting’.
This is a wonderful production, vibrant, funny and terribly entertaining albeit with its undercurrent of mental illness, alcoholism, domestic abuse and violence. Excellently written by Paul O’Reilly, cascading with McDonagh overtones and Enniscorthy nuances, cleverly directed by Fintan Kelly, outstandingly performed by Fergal Kelly, Pat Murphy, Kate Breen, Alan Kinsella and Niall Holohan, and as for Julie Fox, aka Rose, she simply blossomed – she was mayhem, manic and pure magic! Congratulations to all. – Maria Nolan
Slaney Entertainment & Leisure
www.slaneynews.com
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2020 Wexford Literary Festival Paula Campbell of Poolbeg Press.
Author, Journalist, MC, After Dinner Speaker and Columnist with the Irish Independent Billy Keane.
Wexford Literary Festival (WLF) is delighted to announce that things are beginning to hot up for this year’s Festival weekend which will run from 2nd – 5th July. The hard-working Committee is busy putting together a comprehensive, all-embracing, wide-ranging Programme of Events incorporating the many forms of literature – Poetry, Prose, Drama, Film, Visual Art and Spoken Word. The 2020 Festival, which will be launched with our festival brochure on Friday 5th June at Enniscorthy Castle, a month prior to the Festival weekend, will have something to suit everyone and w e a re t h r i l l e d t o h a v e President and Provost of Trinity College Dublin, Patrick Prendergast, to do the honours for us. Patrick, who was born just outside Enniscorthy and
educated at St. Peter’s College, is one of our own. He studied Mechanical Engineering in Trinity in 1987 completing a degree and a PhD. Returning from the Netherlands in 1995, he became a lecturer at the college and served with distinction in many capacities since then until he was elected Provost in 2011. Wexford Literary Festival is honoured that he has agreed to launch our Festival Programme on June 5th. Our 2020 Programme will include events at the Wexford Arts Centre and the Red Books bookstore, Wexford, and we are currently exploring ways of bringing the Festival to both Gorey and New Ross. The Festival will begin on Thursday 2nd July at Enniscorthy Library where Author, Journalist, MC, After Dinner Speaker and
Columnist with the Irish Independent, Billy Keane, will officially open the 7th Wexford Literary Festival. Billy, son of the renowned John B Keane, has been writing for the Irish Independent for almost 20 years, his columns are humorous and entertaining and include everything from sport to life in general. Billy, who runs the family pub in Listowel, said that he was delighted to be asked to open the Festival in Enniscorthy and to follow in his father’s footsteps as his dad opened the Strawberry Fair here in Enniscorthy many, many moons ago. WLF is thrilled to have Billy involved and very much looks forward to him opening the Festival on Thursday 2nd July 2020. Over the coming weeks and months we will have details of the myriad of events planned for WLF 2020 but in
the meantime we are inviting submissions for all of our wonderful competitions including the Colm Toibin S h o r t S t o r y Aw a rd , t h e Anthony Cronin Poetry Award and the Billy Roche One Act Play Award, and for our Meet The Publisher event. This is an excellent opportunity for all you scribblers out there to dust off that manuscript or half-finished manuscript that has been lying in the shoe box under the bed or on top of the wardrobe and book a slot with the wonderful Paula Campbell of Poolbeg Press – who knows you could be the next Colm Toibin, Eoin Colfer or Billy Roche. So get those entries into us now to be in with a chance to be among our 2020 winners – details on our website: wexfordliteraryfestival.com – Maria Nolan, WLF Secretary.
Check with local venues and organisers about cancellations or postponements
‘The Perfect Match’ will return!
The cast, production team and committee of Clonroche Stage Productions took the difficult decision some weeks ago to postpone their eagerly-awaited production of ‘The Perfect Match’ to the Autumn when all can enjoy, post Covid-19, the marvellous show that it is. ‘The Perfect Match’ has it all – election fever, match-making and love stories, interspersed with well-loved songs, drama and comedy. The show is produced by Teresa Buckley, musical direction by Bernie Murray Ryan and Sean Flood, and choreographed by Venie Mullet. The organisers wish that everybody stays safe and healthy over the coming months and they look forward to seeing you later in the year.
President and Provost of Trinity College Dublin, Patrick Prendergast, with Elizabeth Whyte, Executive Director / CEO Wexford Arts Centre.
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Slaney Entertainment & Leisure
6 April 2020
ARE YOU
DANCING?
DeCLaN FLaNagaN is the South east’s leading dance teacher specialising in Irish Country Jiving & Ballroom, 1950s Rock ‘n’ Roll, Line Dancing, etc. He is also well known as a music broadcaster on elite Country Radio He contributes a regular music and dance column to the Slaney News. Welcome to the April edition of the Slaney News where you will get all the bits and bobs on the social dance scene in the southeast. Well to answer the heading on this article, "Are you dancing?" the answer is a definite no. What a difference a few weeks make. In my last article, I spoke about how busy it was about to become on the dancing scene with concerts and festivals all lining up and getting ready for the summer and beyond. I did write about the threat of the coronavirus possibly shutting down all the dance halls, but with only one case confirmed in Ireland at the time, who could have posDerek Ryan
sibly foreseen the disruption it was going to cause, not only in the dancing scene, but to all our daily lives. First it was the pubs, then the schools, factories, restaurants, building sites and everything except shops, chemists and takeaways were closed. We are now only allowed to leave our houses for exercise, and that is restricted to 2km, or for essential goods. And when will it all end? Nobody truly knows. As I write this article, Ireland now has 4,604 cases and worst of all, 137 people have died from the virus. There are well over a million cases worldwide and a staggering 66,500 deaths. Italy, Spain and
France's health services are simply not able to cope and America and the U.K., whose leaders gambled on a different approach, based on no evidence, are now both paying the price. We were booked to go to Blackpool by Enjoy Travel to do some dance workshops at Joe Davitt's 10th anniversary celebration. Things were happening fast in the lead up to the day we were expecting to leave. All outdoor events were now limited to 500 people and indoor to 100. That straight away put all big outdoor events in jeopardy if it was to prolong, and as for any concert, they simply had to be cancelled. That meant the Derek Ryan gig in The Lord Bagenal Inn, which I was so looking forward to, being put on ice as it was going to be a sell out with over 400 DR fans expected to turn up. My classes were fast dwindling with only a handful turning up in Shillelagh on the Thursday night before we were due to sail for Holyhead. My suitcase lay half packed on the bedroom floor, not sure whether to go or not. A directive from our government said it was safe to travel to the UK and the Cheltenham races were cleared to go ahead. An announcement from British PM Boris Johnson stating there'd be no restrictions meant we were heading for Dublin Port in the morning. There were mixed emotions on that trip I'd have to say. We didn't want to let anyone down and we wanted to enjoy the event and meet new friends, but, it felt like there
with Declan Flanagan
Joe Davitt
Alister Fingleton who stole the show in Blackpool
was a tsunami approaching, and we were still on the beach. Tsunami or no tsunami, it was business as usual in Blackpool. We did have a great time and especially at night in the bar where a lot of the musicians and singers really showed off their talent. I couldn't have been more impressed with Joe Davitt and his wide range of both instruments and genres of music. Joe's keyboard player, Alister Fingleton, stole the show for me. Apart from being a talented musician, he had us all in stitches with his antics on stage at night. It was bittersweet though as Louise Morrissey and The Moynihan Brothers decided not to travel, and Aidan Clerkin and Olivia Douglas who did, were anxious to get home. As with all bands and musicians now, they all faced a very uncertain future when they would get there. Rumours were now circulating fast and furious that the army and the guards were about
to impose a curfew in Ireland and we might not get home at all. After a tense drive on Sunday morning back to Holyhead, it was a relief to finally board the ferry for home. There is of course a huge fallout for most people due to the COVID-19 crisis, but for our singers and musicians, it is especially hard. Because of their late nights and getting home all hours in the morning, a regular job simply isn't feasible. Record/cd sales, except for a mere handful, only account for a tiny income so that leaves the majority of them high and dry. I see a lot of singers have opted to do some live shows on Facebook so that's why I've picked the same two artists’ photos this month as I did last month just to show the contrast between the then and now and to show that they are just human the same as the rest of us. So that's where I'll leave you this month in these uncertain times. The Tullamore Show,
one of the biggest in the country, scheduled for August 9th, is cancelled. Although not official, I hear the Rockin’ Food Festival here in Enniscorthy might also be gone. So that's how far away people are thinking. Whether the Electric Picnic at the end of August or even huge events like the National Ploughing Championships and the All Ireland Football and Hurling Finals in September will take place all depends on how long the coronavirus poses a risk here in Ireland. Having said that, the educational authorities are adamant the leaving cert will go ahead in June. I wouldn't like to be in charge of the logistics of that gig! My money is on a shift on that idea. Keep safe and do a slosh every morning before breakfast to keep you from seizing up!! That's all from me this month and I hope to see you all same time same place, in the May edition of the Slaney News. n
Check with local venues and organisers about cancellations or postponements
Floods of memories!
We featued in our last issue some photos from the Murphy Floods Hotel staff reunion held on 16th February in The Bailey. Here are some more photos from that happy occasion. Above left: Mary Sinnot, Elizabeth O’Brien. Above centre: Matt Joyce and Brendan Robinson. Above right: Lily Owens and Breda Moorehouse. All pics: Maria Nolan.
Slaney Entertainment & Leisure
www.slaneynews.com AN ENNISCORTHY VIP This month I am profiling a vibrant Enniscorthy lady who is making her name in the very competitive and edgy world of magazine journalism. The lovely, bubbly Niamh Devereux is currently the Deputy Editor of VIP, the very popular beauty and fashion magazine. I first met Niamh as a Senior Reporter with the Enniscorthy Echo and watched with interest and admiration as her career progressed from local to national level. Last year, Niamh was one of our guest speakers at the Wexford Literary Festival and also very kindly agreed to judge our Best Dressed Lady competition at Wexford GAA Race Day in July. I recently caught up with this local lady who is now a red carpet regular, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Will Ferrell and Sting to mention but a few. Tell me a little about your current position and what you do? I am Deputy Editor of VIP magazine, one of the country's best-selling monthly glossies! In my role, I work alongside a small team to produce beautiful celebrity photoshoots and interviews – the heart of the magazine – before subbing and editing before it is sent to the printers. I am also responsible for all beauty and travel content in the magazine, meaning I am lucky enough to trial cosmetic products before they hit the market and review the best staycation locations across the country. Once a year, we host the glamorous event that is the VIP Style Awards, which the editorial team is heavily involved in, from deciding on nominations to co-ordinating photographs for the magazine on the night. It's a fast-paced, no-two-days-are-the-same kind of job! What path led you to your current position? I studied Journalism in DCU for three years, and finished up with a placement in The Herald newspaper. When the internship was completed, I was asked to stay on as a freelance writer, but around the same time I was offered a fulltime reporter role in the Enniscorthy Echo, which I decided to go for – why not, I thought, when I could live at home with my parents in Davidstown and save some money! I was later promoted to Senior Reporter, in charge of all news from the town and its environs – from court ongoings and council meetings to the filming of Oscar-nominated Brooklyn in the town – and gained invaluable experience. In 2015, I noted that
SLANEYSIDE SUCCESS STORIES A series by Maria Nolan
VIP magazine was looking for an Online Editor for its new site, vipmagazine.ie. I applied, got the job, and one year later when a print opportunity opened up, I jumped at it. The rest is history! Who and what motivated and influenced you along the way? Bizarrely, I remember reading a Jim Carrey quote about how his father could have been a comedian, but chose a 'steady' job as an accountant which he was subsequently fired from. He said, 'You can fail at what you don't want, so you might as well take a chance on doing what you love.' I remember having a 'feck it' moment, and applying for the job in VIP soon after, that line really resonated with me. I suppose the mantra that life is short motivates me to go for every opportunity that I am presented with because...why not? If something doesn't work out for me, I'll get over it, but I never want to regret not putting myself out there and taking a risk. Has it been a difficult or enjoyable journey? A bit of both. I struggled being a news reporter in my hometown at times. It was very close to the bone, and sometimes too personal, when I had to report on sad stories involving those I knew. And even those I didn't know; I am just too empathic to work in the world of news writing, it can be a very grim place and I have great respect for those who do. Working in magazines was something I always aspired to from a young age, so as soon as that journey began, I enjoyed every minute. Covering red carpet premieres, interviewing celebrities, managing photoshoots in incredible locations – it all felt like an exciting new world, and I had to pinch myself a little at the beginning. As a child what did you want to be when you grew up? I told our parish priest in Caim National School, at the age of nine, that I was going to be an author...something I still haven't ruled out! I always wanted to write for a living, but I also wanted to be a vet at one point. Judging how much of a softie I am with animals now, that never would have worked out! Who were your childhood heroes? It has to be The Spice Girls! Their message of girl power and friendship was hugely important to the generation
The Slaney News is running a series featuring Slaneyside natives and those who live and work here. each month, Maria Nolan will be talking to a person who is excelling in their chosen field be it Sport, Literature, Business, entertainment, the arts, Fashion, Beauty and who is either Slaney born and bred or has a connection to here. The focus of this new endeavour is to shine a light on those from our town who are doing well in their respective careers and life paths, emphasising their influences and motivations with a view to inspiring and encouraging other enniscorthians to emulate their success.
think it's important to note it isn't just the 'fluff' people may assume. We feel it's important to provide both the light and shade, both the fun and serious stuff. Magazines such as these provide a service to women who need that hour to sit down with a cup of tea, away from their phone, to switch off, and hopefully put the magazine down with a fresh perspective, and feeling good about themselves. What are you most proud of? I'm proud of overcoming the shy, self-conscious teenager that I was to become the confident woman that I am. If I told 16-year-old Niamh in Coláiste Bríde that she'd be on a red carpet making Will Ferrell laugh at a movie premiere, interviewing Sting or being up close and personal with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for the Royal Visit...it would have been beyond belief. I'm also proud of our recent Gay Byrne memorial issue. The magazine had already been sent to print when the sad news of his passing broke, so in an unprecedented move we pulled it back, and over the next day, put a brand new 16 pages together in tribute to the late, great broadcaster. What do you dislike about others? Rudeness. Whether it's someone who thinks they're better than others (you'll witness a lot of that in this industry) or somebody who doesn't give their seat up to an elderly person on the Luas. I also can't bear begrudgers – you'll also witness a lot of that in this industry!
Niamh Devereux: An Enniscorthy VIP. of women I grew up with, and they made me feel like I could be unapologetically myself, whether that was super girly like Emma Bunton or a tracksuit-wearing brash Mel C. I also adored writers Jacqueline Wilson and JK Rowling, and devoured their books time and time again. How would you describe yourself? A very enthusiastic person, who is possibly annoyingly tenacious! I'm empathic, warm and always find the humour in things. People who take life too seriously or are apathetic bore me – I like to surround myself with like-minded, positive people who are full of adventure and fun.
How do you motivate and influence people? VIP may be a showbiz-centric magazine, but over the last number of years my colleagues and I have strived to make it a magazine that makes the reader feel good. We use as diverse imagery as we can, we include no-nonsense lifestyle features whether it's on menopause or dealing with burnout and we never shy away from asking questions to our interviewees on important topics that need discussing in mainstream platforms, such as mental health, cervical cancer and homophobia in Ireland. Of course there are the pretty pictures, the fashion and beauty content, the wedding inspiration for brides-to-be – but I
If you could live in another time, when would it be? I became obsessed with Mad Men a while back, and totally romanticised the idea of living in the 60s in NYC as a result...but that time wasn't exactly the most freeing for women! So, although I was born in 1991, I'd like to go back as my current age of 28 to the early 90s. No social media, grunge music, dungarees...sounds pretty heavenly! What's the one thing about you few people know? I might present myself as some kind of social butterfly at the glitzy media events I attend as part of the job, but really I'm a massive, nerdy introvert! I love nothing more than curling up in Christmas pyjamas (no matter what the time of year is) and reading a book, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. If I don't recharge
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like that, I can suffer from anxiety. I also have a resolution this year to try as many new things as possible – first up is learning to play the ukulele, second is recording a podcast. What do you think is the best thing about Enniscorthy/ Wexford/Ireland? I love coming home to Enniscorthy. My favourite thing to do is to bring a bag of salt and vinegar doused chips from Mallocas up to the top of Vinegar Hill and take in the sights of the town. I also love going to the Cotton Tree or The Wilds for lunch and going for a stroll along the prom. There are some fantastic festivals in the town, like the Rockin' Food Festival and Blackstairs Blues Festival, as well as the Literary Festival, which I was delighted to be a speaker at last year. I also can't not mention a drive to Curracloe beach – rain or shine, a walk there soothes the soul. What do you think is the worst thing about Enniscorthy/ Wexford/Ireland? It's a real shame that we don't have a cinema in Enniscorthy. It would be great to even have one open for weekends, as although the cinemas in Wexford are excellent, it's an effort to get there, especially for those who don't drive. Having something to do in the evenings other than head into the pub is so important. I'd also love to see more investment made in the town to encourage people to shop local. What do you like most about your job/career? It keeps me on my toes. I'm the kind of person who can get bored easily and having this kind of job ensures that doesn't happen. I'm grateful that I can do something I love and be paid for it, even if it isn't the most lucrative of industries! What was the best day of your life? I always like to think that it hasn't happened yet! If you could be or do anything else what would it be? I think about this all the time – from working at an elephant rescue centre I visited in Thailand to opening my own bohemian café, it's fair to say I can be a dreamer. Ultimately though, I always see myself writing; whether that evolves to travel writing, freelancing, a column writer...I can't see myself ever giving this up. This smiling, confident Enniscorthy gal has come a long way and her journey is far from over so I will continue to keep a watchful eye on this r i s i n g s t a r, y e t a n o t h e r Enniscorthy success story. n
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Slaney News
6 April 2020
St Aidan’s Primary School Confirmation ❶
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Group photos No. 1-4, of Enniscorthy Confirmation, St Aidan’s Primary School, Enniscorthy Cathedral, Friday 6th March, with clergy L-R: Fr Billy Swan, Fr Brian Broaders, Bishop Denis Brennan, Fr Odhran Furlong, and school Principal Frank Murphy (third from right in front row) and Mr John O’Gorman, teacher (second from right in front row). 1. Bishop Denis Brennan with Mr Ciaran Cronin and his class. 2. Bishop Denis Brennan with Ms Karol Ann Tyrrell and her class. 3. Bishop Denis Brennan with Mr Michael Doyle and his class. 4. Bishop Denis Brennan with Ms Elaine Barlow and her class. 5. Liam Walsh, Mai Larkin Walsh, Marie Larkin and Dawn Walsh. 6. Jackie Hairstens and Dylan Farrell. 7. Cameron, Jack, Michael, Katie and Donna Cloke. 8. Ian Brady, Sophie Gannon and Siobhan Fenlon.
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Slaney News
www.slaneynews.com
Ballymurn National School Confirmation
Above: Ballymurn National School Confirmation class on 3rd March with Bishop Denis Brennan, Fr Jim Finn PP, and teachers Emer Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Gorman and Marie Brophy.
Crossabeg National School Confirmation
Crossabeg Confirmation class on 3rd March with Bishop Denis Brennan, Fr Jim Finn, and schoolteachers.
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Slaney Food & Drink
6 April 2020
Getting the most from meals By Oonagh Trehin BSc MSc ANUTR 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, judgementfree, friendly service. Oonagh contributes a regular column to the Slaney News.
during this difficult Covid19 situation, many of us are cooking much more, and one of the biggest challenges is ensuring you get the most from meals, cost wise and nutrition wise, while keeping everyone in the household happy. Here are some tips to help you get the most from your meals: 1. BE PrEPArEd Make a meal plan for the week, remembering to include breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Use this as the basis for your
shopping list. If you can, involve everyone in the meal planning, to limit the arguments at the dinner table! [note: it is helpful to have a list to help keep trips to the supermarket shorter during this time]. 2. uSE tHE FrEEzEr Frozen fruit and vegetables are just as nutritious as fresh. There is a big range available, so pick up options that your family enjoy. They are ideal for adding extra nutrition to meals, while keeping the costs down. Frozen vegetables are
4. Bulk out mEAlS Beans and lentils are great sources of protein and fibre, and are cheap, making them perfect for adding to meals for extra nutrition and for bulking out dishes. By adding beans or lentils, you can also use less meat, and make mince-based dishes, such as shepherd’s pie, chili con carne and spaghetti bolognese go further. Beans and lentils.
perfect to add to stews, curries and casseroles and for serving alongside meals. Frozen fruits are ideal for making smoothies, baking and adding to cereal/porridge. 3. AvoId WAStE Now is a brilliant chance to assess how much food we waste. It is thought that every Irish household throws away 1 tonne of food annually. Look at what food is being wasted in your home and think about ways you can reduce the waste.
5. HAvE SnACkS rEAdy It is so important at this time that we don't fear food – our bodies need energy to fight off infection and illness. So, please don't be afraid of snacking! Keep the kitchen stocked with snacks that you and your family enjoy. Aim for 2-3 food groups in every snack. Ricecakes and breadsticks are handy to serve with fruit and veggie sticks as snacks. For more advice and recipes, check out www.littleonutrition.com or follow @littleonutrition on social media. n
All going well ‘Street Feast’ will be back on the streets of Ireland on Sunday 7th June 2020. Street Feast is a neighbourhood street party hosted by communities all over Ireland at the same time. This year on Sunday 7th of June, at around 12 noon, communities across Ireland will sit down for a feast to celebrate community. They can be anywhere really – out on the street, in a local park or in our front gardens. There are lots of good reasons to have a Street Feast. Most of all it's a great excuse to eat good food, meet new
Did you know? Food waste is estimated to generate over 1 million tonnes of waste in Ireland with over one third of the average household’s waste consisting of food waste. Over 70% of food waste is preventable by small changes in shopping and meal planning. Cost savings to the average home could be up to €700. www.stopfoodwaste.ie n
people who live near you and have a bit of craic. Last year, over 100,000 people across the country took part in this national day of neighbourhood lunches. This year, Street Feast is 11 years old and its goal remains the same – to build stronger and more resilient communities whilst tackling loneliness and isolation. So start planning your neighbourhood lunch now. Registrations to host a feast and to receive a free party pack will open soon. Follow Streetfeast on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram, and www.streetfeast.ie n
To advertise on the Slaney News Food Page contact: 087-2403310
Food Academy Start training programme
Salt of the Earth For anyone interested in the food industry in Co. Wexford, and further afield, the Slaney News can highly recommend checking out the ‘Salt of the Earth’ website and podcasts
aimed at connecting the people who produce food with those who consume it. Salt of the Earth is the brainchild of local agribusiness consultant, Brendan Byrne.
Check out the podcasts on: https://saltearth.podbean.com (e.g. episode no. 26 from 28th December, 2019, is about Killowen Farm, Courtnacuddy). https://saltearthireland.com n
Food Academy is a training programme aimed at supporting and nurturing early stage food businesses. the local Enterprise offices have joined forces with Bord Bía and Supervalu on this initiative to provide a consistent level of food marketing knowledge to early-stage food business owners. ProgrAmmE oBJECtIvES: • Develop an in-depth knowledge of the tools which can be used to assess market gaps for your product. • Understand core technical issues facing your food or
drink business. • Learn how to grow sales for your product range through better branding and packaging design. • Gain all of the tools and knowledge necessary to launch and build a successful food business in Ireland. At the final workshop, participants will get the opportunity to present their product to a panel from SuperValu and, if successful, can participate in a trial based in local shops which, in the right circumstances, could progress over
time to a national listing with SuperValu. There is no guarantee of your product being listed as part of the programme. However, the majority of products do proceed to trial with SuperValu. The Food Academy is aimed at those in the early to mid-stages of developing a food or drink business. Selection criteria will apply. To register your interest contact Your Local Enterprise Office Wexford: 053 919 6020 or info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie The closing date for registration is 1st May, 2020. n
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Comhairle Contae
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053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
Loch Garman Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Wexford County Council – Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
COVID-19
Community Call Helpline Assistance will be provided to vulnerable members of the public.
053 919 6000 Dial 1 c o v i d s u p p o r t @ wex fo rd c o c o . i e
Lines open: 8am - 8pm 7 days per week Please help us locate you by knowing your Eircode. You can Google “Eircode Finder” or use the direct link below:
h ps://finder.eircode.ie
Thank you to all Volunteering Groups who have pledged their support.
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Slaney Business & Finance
Important Training Courses two important training courses being offered shortly by Wexford local Enterprise office: CrEAtIng onlInE oPPortunItIES For BuSInESSES Venue: Online Date: 15/04/2020 Time: 09:30 - 13:00 Category: Social Media Cost: Free This online training course is aimed at businesses who currently have little or none online trading/social media presence and may be looking at new ways to attract customers, drive sales in these tough times. The Coronavirus is affecting business and consumer behaviour on a massive scale and we know that businesses are under threat and experts are predicting changes across industries. But, this is also likely to boost digital media platforms as people have to now spend more time at home and are using online platforms to communicate with friends and loved ones. This online course will help participants to create online opportunities using online platforms for customer engagement, interaction and sales. Content: ● To look at how companies can tap into this growing online audience by offering business group chats, virtual meetings, webinars, podcasts, online forums for A n I n v e s t We x f o rd – Transforming Enniscorthy Team (‘Team Enniscorthy’) has been established and is working to bring to fruition some of the many suggestions and ideas put forward at a seminar held in Enniscorthy on December 30th. The Team has held two meetings since its establishment, and will endeavour to meet on a monthly basis (subject to Covid-19 restrictions) to promote industrial growth and economic opportunities in both Enniscorthy town and district.
clients and advice on how to set these up. ● Discuss how to increase sales by using online selling, for example Facebook stores, and e-Commerce solutions. ● Discuss how companies may benefit from temporary revenue streams for example offering customers online gift vouchers that they can redeem once businesses re-open or to buy physical goods or digital products. ● Q & A Session This part of the workshop will allow participants to voice any questions or concerns they are experiencing at this time. learning outcomes: Participants will leave the workshop with practical ideas which can be used to drive sales across a number of platforms, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram etc. requirements: All participants will need a laptop or tablet as they would need to access the workshop remotely. trainer: Fiona McGuire, Join The Dots Online. SmArt SAlES And mArkEtIng BEyond CHAllEngES Venue: Online Date: 16/04/2020 Time: 09:30 - 13:00 Cost: Free Category: Workshop This online course will be held over 3 hours and is will help par-
6 April 2020
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ticipants with their sales and marketing challenges. Course Content: This workshop will support and help business owners/managers to adapt their sales and marketing efforts now in a way that will help their business to grow and reach their ideal clients post Covid-19. The items for focus will include but may not be limited to the following: ● Smart sales and marketing assessment ● The online value ● Recession proof revenue routes ● Market diversification ● The new sales pitch ● Growth strategy beyond Covid-19 ● Your revised sales and marketing strategy ● Workshop and business practicals will be included in real time. methodology proposed: Discussion, case studies, business templates, online presentation, online platform support tools, soft copy support documents will be included for every attendee. trainer: Mags Boland, Bofin Consultancy. For more info please contact: local Enterprise office, Wexford Co. Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. tel: 053 919 6020. info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie. www.localEnterprise.ie/Wexford/
Some relief for Ratepayers
To advertise on the Slaney News Business Pages please call 087-2403310
ENNISCORTHY CHAMBER: See: www. enniscorthychamber.ie Enniscorthy & district Chamber of Commerce. tel: 053-9232006. Portsmouth House, templeshannon, Enniscorthy. mon to Fri 9.00am – 5.30pm. admin@enniscorthychamber.ie www.enniscorthychamber.ie
Transforming Enniscorthy
‘Invest We x f o r d – transforming Enniscorthy’ Committee: Michael Dempsey, Chairman, Managing Director, Bristol Myer Squibb (retired). Eamonn Galavan, Businessman and Developer. Colm Neville, Hotelier. Ryan Quigley, AbbVie Pharmaceutical. Pat Bevan, Managing Director, Reynaers Ltd. Rory Fanning, Managing Director, Slaney Foods. Ger Reynolds, BD Director of Operations. Dr. Karen O’ Connor, Managing Director, Datapac. Ed Murphy, Senior Financial Advisor, Wexford Co. Council. Ger Mackey, Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager.
Some of the graphics being used to promote inward investment in Enniscorthy and Co. Wexford generally. Jimmy Gahan, CEO, Enniscorthy Chamber. What is team Enniscorthy all about:
1. This team of business leaders along with a representative of Wexford Co. Council and Enniscorthy Chamber has been
established and held its second meeting on 28th February. This team is the first of four town teams (Enniscorthy, New
Ross, Gorey, Wexford) to be established in Co. Wexford. 2. The Development of a place brand, marketing and sales
ENNISCORTHY BUSINESS ASSOCIATION ALL BUSINESSES WELCOME TO JOIN! Contact: e.b.a.enniscorthy@gmail.com or Slaney News 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com
strategy for Enniscorthy. This will be done in conjunction with Invest Wexford, so it fits in with an overall Co. Wexford approach. Research is being carried out to establish a saleable brand approach. 3. The new Team Enniscorthy will also put in place an effective networking structure to get the involvement of other Enniscorthy leaders to get their help with its strategy for the town. 4. The new Team Enniscorthy will look at the current property situation to make sure there are solutions for all types of inward investors. They will also look at what research and training solutions can be put in place to ensure Enniscorthy is an attractive town to investors. 5. The new Team Enniscorthy will advise on modernising Enniscorthy’s property offering, and work with other local and national bodies to make that happen. 6. Most importantly the new Team Enniscorthy will be a sales team for prospecting and selling Enniscorthy to investors to bring economic success and jobs to the town. 7. To contribute to Invest Wexford’s promotion of County Wexford to a Dublin-based business audience – the first of these events took place in Dublin on 20th February. n
Slaney Services
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VET DIARY FOR APRIL
with the Moyne Veterinary Hospital This month, Joe Kavanagh takes a look at Covid-19. My father always said, 'Good nursing is 90% of any medication'… and I'm sure this will come to play out in the weeks and possibly months ahead with our national emergency with Covid-19. We're open as usual, we've taken measures to curtail and hopefully prevent contamination and spread of the virus, and split our staff into separate teams to help in the case of someone becoming infected… so that we can continue to give cover to our clients, the animals and public in general. The heart-warming side of all this chaos is how people have been so accepting of the necessary changes, so good to pull together for the common good and looking out for one another in lots of ways. Thankfully, pets don't get this strain of virus, you'll be more than likely already aware. With all the texts ‘n’ whatsapp videos, puzzles, jokes and positive takes on this, ye get a bit boggle-eyed looking at it all. The real take-home message for me is how people have just had to learn what's important in their lives – health, and to slow down and often stop for the first time in years... no work to run to, no training or matches to race to, and very little on the telly except more news about Covid counts here and abroad. Slowing down is a big challenge for us all, being busy is much more familiar and easy to us. Although, I'm sure being cooped up at home isn't everyone's dream, it does give us the opportunity to stop and think... 'What’s all the racing about for?'... ‘Is it worth it all?’... ‘What’s the most important thing to us at the end of the day... our job, our family, our health?’ Our pets show us this everyday... They don't get stressed about work or deadlines, they stress about us stressing probably!! They get us up in the morning, are always happy to see us, give us unconditional love and get us out in Nature. If this whole crisis teaches us anything it’s that the best things in life are right here... our family, the beauty of Nature, trees coming into leaf, flowers blossoming, longer evenings to enjoy getting out... even if Leo only lets us go 2km!! I'm sure there's a park or wood close by to enjoy a walk especially in this beautiful weather with your dog and family... down time at its best. Staying healthy is the key. The word coming from the worst affected countries seems to be that taking high doses of Vitamin C, 1000 mgs several times a day, is very helpful if not vital. They seemingly are treating virus patients in hospitals in China, and now in the USA, with high doses of intravenous Vitamin C as a treatment, but some doctors are now advising that taking high doses as a preventive measure is very important too. Boosting immunity with probiotic capsules powder or liquid supplements has long been recognised as an excellent way in both animals and people... especially now. This, along with a good diet and plenty of rest, will help us ride the wave. We're still open and hopefully will be able to help with your animals as always .....Stay well and safe. n
If you have a topic you’d like Joe Kavanagh to address please text SLANEY NEWS at 087-2403310 or email: slaneynews@gmail.com
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Slaney Ads
6 April 2020
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Our May issue will be out on Monday 27th April 2020
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Slaney History
www.slaneynews.com
6 April 2020
If a picture tells a thousand words… Ibar Carty chronicles the 20th century in Enniscorthy & beyond...
Ibar Carty has opened up his vast photo archives to the Slaney News. In this 101st of a series, Ibar shares two photos taken more than 50 years apart. If you can supply the names of any of the people featured in the photos, Ibar and the Slaney News would be delighted to hear from you. For our convenience we would ask you to email the names to: slaneynews@gmail.com. Thank you. Above: Admin staff photo at Roadstone, Brownswood, Enniscorthy. Can anyone put names to faces and exact year (around the late 1970s). Photo by Ibar Carty. Right: Camolin Ladies Poetry Class of 1925. Just look at all the lovely hats! Photo by Geraldine Crane. Alll pics: Copyright © Ibar Carty.
Ibar Carty can provide high quality prints of all photos in his series to date. Simply ring Ibar on 087-6729969 or email: ibar_carty@yahoo.ie or call into his premises on Castle St (beside Athenaeum) and if you mention the Slaney News he’ll give you 20% OFF the price! DON’T FORGET: IBAR SPECIALISES IN RECOPYING AND RESTORING OLD PHOTOS. CALL IN ANY TIME FOR MORE INFORMATION
EHRS at Hugginstown Commemoration
Above: Members of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society – Maria Nolan and Tom Boland at the Hugginstown Memorial, Co. Kilkenny, with guest speaker and author Jim Maher. Above right and below right: Members of EHRS at the Hugginstown War of Independence Memorial. Right: Chairman of EHRS Ray Murphy with Richard Beir. Below left: Deirdre Mernagh and Edel Kelly EHRS. All pics courtesy of Maria Nolan.
On 8th March 1920, the first successful capture of a Royal Irish Constabulary barracks in Leinster occurred with the taking of Hugginstown Barracks in south Kilkenny by the Kilkenny Brigades of the IRA. Gáirdín an Ghorta Historical Society commemorated that historic event exactly 100 years later on Sunday 8th March 2020 and Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society were delighted to be invited to participate in the commemorations. Local historian and author of The Flying Column West Kilkenny, Jim Maher, was guest speaker for the event and gave a most detailed history of Kilkenny’s involvement in the War of Independence beginning with the attack on Hugginstown Barracks where 35 men from the Kilkenny Brigade led by Thomas Tracey, climbed on the roof, broke slates and dropped grenades into the barracks. After about 45 minutes, the police surrendered. The IRA captured six rifles, two revolvers and some ammunition. Constable Thomas Ryan was wounded in the attack and died two days later leaving a pregnant wife and five children. Jim Maher, who comes from a strong Republican tradition, is informative and passionate about the struggle for Irish freedom and has spent many years travelling the highways and byways of Kilkenny and Tipperary talking to the quiet men and women who knew the days of the Flying Columns, Brigades, Battalions and Companies of the IRA and Cumann na mBan and it was a fitting tribute for Jim to be asked to unveil the Commemorative Plaque at the site of the former RIC Barracks in memory of all those men and women who have now passed into our history. – Maria Nolan
Slaney Around the Region
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BUNCLODY…
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NEW ROSS... All quiet in Bunclody due to Covid-19. Pic: Jarlath Judge.
BUnCLOdy LIBRARy See Bunclody Library’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook. com/BunclodyLibrary/events where you can sign up for the monthly what’s on e-newsletter. Also see the website: http://www.wexford.ie/wex/Dep artments/Library/WhatsOn/ sT VInCEnT dE PAUL Local Confidential helpline 0873696883. SVP request box is now located at back of shop. There is a newspaper recycling bin beside SuperValu in aid of S.V.P. FCJ sIsTERs The FCJ Sisters are leaving Bunclody in May 2020, having given 159
years to education and service in Bunclody, especially to girls and women, and to boys and young men in the last 50 years. sIgnACARE nURsIng HOME SignaCare Bunclody is a new, stateof-the-art, 62-bedded nursing home, in the heart of Bunclody. Visit SignaCare in Bunclody, email: info@signacare.ie, tel: 053 93 76222.
the community who need assistance. Please contact James Doyle 087-9594639, Mark Sheehan 0871507808 or James Crean 087-7760992 for help with the collection of food, medication or any other necessities and they will try to organise assistance for you. Follow on Facebook & Twitter @officialhwhbun for club news & updates.
AssIsTAnCE AVAILABLE FROM gAA While keeping in line with the restrictions in place regarding Covid-19, Half-Way-House/ Bunclody GAA, Ladies Football and Bunclody Camogie Clubs will do whatever they can to help those in
LOCAL BUsInEss WEBsITE www.bunclodybusiness.com – a new online hub promoting business in the Bunclody area. And a great way also to keep up to date with what’s happening in the town. On the site you can get a FREE listing to promote your business. n
A ‘Transforming New Ross’ event was held on 5th March in the Brandon House Hotel, New Ross, organised by Invest Wexford, Wexford Co. Council and New Ross Chamber of Commerce. Above: Cllr John Fleming (Chairman New Ross Municipal District Council), Michael McCormack (New Ross Municipal District Manager) and Sean Reidy (Co. Wexford Chamber of Commerce President). Right: Sean Connick, Des Moloney. Below: Speakers L-R: Richie Nolan, MD Nolan Transport, Pascal Bolger, MD Culcita, Pauline Oakes, Integer Senior Director of Operations, David Cooney, Director Recruitment Morgan McKinley, John Stacey, Head of Development, StitcherAds.
KILMUCKRIDGE...
International Women’s Day in Upton Court Hotel, Kilmuckridge, 8th March, L-R: Betty Walsh and Joan Kavanagh. Above right: Theresa Keane, Cllr Mary Farrell, Ann Marie Hammel and Michelle Cooper.
WATERFORD... Wa t e r f o r d I n s t i t u t e o f Technology (WIT) currently holds the position of lead institute of technology in Ireland with regard to EU Horizon 2020 (H2020) funding. This is according to Enterprise Ireland’s Eleventh Interim Report of Irish Involvement in Horizon 2020, released in December 2019, on the European Union Framework Programme for Research and Innovation; the biggest in the EU. Through Horizon 2020 €80bn of funding has been made available over seven
years (2014 to 2020) to stimulate excellent science, build industrial leadership, and provide solutions to the challenges that our society faces. WIT’s success in H2020 up to the time the report was published is just over €15m which comprises 23 successful projects. WIT has a very ambitious target of €20m in H2020 funding and is well on the way to achieving this by the end of the programme with numerous more proposals in the pipeline for 2020. Ireland has secured €861.4m worth of funding in Horizon 2020 to date.
The objective of H2020 funded projects is to create a digital Europe that will benefit the society of the future. This funding framework is designed to further develop research and industry engagement opportunities throughout the EU whilst creating a future society that all users can benefit from. WIT’s successful projects involve researchers from a number of academic schools in the Institute, covering a wide variety of research such as smart agriculture, data analytics, 5G networks, ocular
research, transport, future health, monitoring cardiac arrhythmias, artificial intelligence, disruptive technologies supporting the labour market and many more. In addition, WIT has been successful with a further €1m for other projects indirectly funded under H2020 bringing the institute’s total funding figure as of 31 January 2020 to €16.1m. WIT researchers are leading 11 of these projects and have partnered with over 500 organisations across Europe. These projects have a total project value of just under €160m. n
Research Support Unit WIT
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Slaney Motoring
6 April 2020
www.slaneynews.com
Caroline gets motoring
Kia XCeed
Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the editor of Changing Lanes (www.changinglanes.ie), one of Ireland’s leading motoring blogs, and a jury member for Irish Car of the year. she also provides freelance writing services to businesses in Wexford under the name of star Content (www.starcontent.ie).
REVIEW BY CAROLINE KIDD since the launch of the new Kia Ceed in the summer of 2018, Kia has created a number of spin-offs to appeal to different buyers of compact vehicles. There was the practical Ceed sW followed by the elegant ProCeed shooting brake. now in 2020 we say hello to probably the most desirable of them all – the new Kia XCeed. Why so desirable? That’s because the XCeed is a crossover and Europe loves a good crossover right now. So does Ireland. Kia claims compact SUV practicality for the XCeed along with the sporty packaging and engaging handling of a hatchback. The new XCeed goes on sale from €26,345, so buyers do pay more for the prestige of
this vehicle over an equivalent Ceed hatchback. In the metal the new XCeed has got a great stance. The only body panels carried over from the five-door Ceed hatchback are the front doors. While the wheelbase remains the same as other models in the Ceed line-up, the 2020 Kia XCeed has longer front and rear overhangs. The proportions are still compact but the ride height has been raise by up to 42 mm over the Ceed hatch. Wheel arch and side sill cladding along with silver roof rails give the car a tougher, SUVlike presence, with the metallic valance in the rear bumper enhancing this effect. My grey test car looked smart and premium but to really
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stand out there is a vibrant new Quantum Yellow shade that is unique to the XCeed! The cabin design of the new XCeed is more or less the same as what we’ve seen in other members of the Ceed family. So that means a contemporary design with the latest Kia infotainment system and good quality fit and finish. The 10.25 inch touchscreen in my test car was really nice to use, with large graphics, clear interface and seamless integration with smartphones. A new yellow colour pack is unique to the XCeed and adds more character. Black upholstery is contrasted with vibrant yellow stitching for seats and doors, yellow seat piping, and a blend of gloss black
and metallic yellow highlights throughout the cabin. Interior space is also good for the compact class, with reasonably sized footwells in the rear. The higher roofline adds a greater feeling of space to the interior. The hip point for each seat is raised by up to 42 mm over the Ceed hatch so it is easier for passengers to step in or out. The boot is also bigger by 31 litres with a total volume of 426 litres. In Ireland, the new Kia XCeed is offered in three trim levels (K2,K3 and K4). Engine options include a 1.0-litre turbo petrol with 120 hp or a 1.6-litre diesel with 115 hp. A new XCeed plug-in hybrid will join the range from April priced from €28,945. Standard equipment includes 16“
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alloys, LED lights front and rear, rear privacy glass, 8 inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple Car Play, and a host of safety features including Lane Keep Assist, Forward Collision Avoidance, High Beam Assist and Speed Limit Assist. My test car was a K3 diesel with 18” alloys, 10.25 inch touchscreen with Sat Nav /Tom Tom and rear view camera, half leather upholstery, electronic parking brake and a wireless phone charger. The list price for this model is €30,495. The K4 completes the range with added features such as heated front seats ,12.3 inch supervision instrument cluster, smart key with push button start, climate control and Blind Spot Detection. Kia’s European engineering team developed the suspension and steering of the Kia XCeed to deliver a comfortable ride and more engaging handling. According to the brand, the new XCeed was tested across a wider range of road surfaces than any previous European-developed Kia to ensure the handling character was ‘truly European’. On the road, buyers will enjoy the more commanding view of the road ahead compared with a conventional hatchback. The XCeed is agile and fun to drive. Unique suspension tuning accommodates for the raise in ride height ensuring the new XCeed feels nothing short of accomplished and comfortable over a variety of Irish roads. Road noise has been reduced also. The Kia XCeed 1.6-litre diesel offers enough power and
torque, however it’s not the most refined or efficient diesel on the market right now in the compact segment. Over a week of driving my average fuel consumption was 5.9l/100km while motor tax is €200 per year. The 2020 Kia XCeed offers buyers now even more style and individuality in the compact segment. The design of this vehicle has been wonderfully executed and on style and image alone, the XCeed should find many homes. Everything we loved about the new Ceed is retained and enhanced here. So the cabin is good quality but lifted a little more with the addition of the optional coloured trim. And there is a more spacious and practical nature to this car though dimensions remain compact. The diesel engine wouldn’t be my first choice but there is a 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine available and a new plug-in hybrid that will allow buyers to explore battery technology without range anxiety. The Kia XCeed does carry a premium for its fashionable looks but buyers have shown again and again that they will go that extra mile for the SUV/crossover look. MOdEL TEsTEd: Kia XCeed 1.6 CRDi K3. Price: €30,495 (from €26,345). Engine: 1.6-litre turbo diesel. Power: 115 hp. Torque: 280 Nm. 0-100km/h: 11.4 seconds. Top speed: 190 km/h. Fuel consumption (NEDC2): 4.1 – 4.3 l/100km. CO2 emissions (NEDC2): 109-114 g/km. Motor Tax: €200 per year. n
Slaney News
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Coffee Morning in Kilmuckridge
Top left: Coffee morning in Crosses Lounge, Kilmuckridge, 1st March, in aid of Irish Heart Foundation, Lauren Brennan and Ger Hegarty. Top right: Nuala and Bethany Donnelly. Above left: Cathleen O’Connor, Molly Healy and Marie Casey. Above centre: Anne and Cian Hammel. Above right: Cllr Mary Farrell, Yvonne O’Sullivan and Catherine Weldon.
ABOVE: Caroreigh St. Garvan’s National School Confirmation Day, Saturday 29th February, in Caroreigh church, with Bishop Denis Brennan, Fr. Robert McGuire and school Principal James Dempsey. LEFT: On 26th February in Piercestown NS, the Fifth Class presented a cheque for €575.92 to Dogs Trust Ireland.
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Slaney News
EnnIsCORTHy EyE
diary dates
a column by joseph doyle
‘still gaMe’ after all these years...
still game, a scottish TV sitcom, started out on the stage and was then on radio before arriving on BBC scotland TV for its first airing in 2002. It tells the story of two elderly gentlemen, Jack and Victor, who are best friends and lifelong mates who live opposite each other in a block of flats in a fictional area of Glasgow called Craiglang. Most of the action takes place in the lads’ flats where they chew the fat, then they go to the pub with their mates. The pub, The Clansman, is run by a guy called Bobbie who every time Jack and Victor enter he says , ‘Look who it is, it’s R2D2 and C-3PO ‘ or a different duo each time, to which they reply, “Two pints ye prick.” This sitcom is filmed in front of a live audience and the setting is a flat, the pub and Navid’s shop. Written by and starring Greg Hemphill and Ford Kiernan, it co-stars Jane McCarry as the gossipy busybody Isa Drennan. This sitcom lasted from 2002 to 2009, with 62 episiodes
6 April 2020
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of 28 minutes, spread over nine seasons. It’s very funny with choice language. If you haven’t seen this comedy then as the cast would say, ‘You’re a big walloper’ to miss it. It’s available on Netflix and on dvd although you might have to brush up on your glaswegian and get a dictictonary to understand some of the words used. This is well written and well cast with the rest of the cast being made up of Winston with the club foot, Navid the Indian shopkeeper, his wive Nina who he makes carry all the heavy stuff for the shop, the miserable, miserly, Scrooge-like, tightfisted Tam Mullen who would shorten the lead of the kettle to save on the electricity bill and never pays for his drink. Then there’s Methadone Mick, Fergus, Sinead his girlfirend, and a young mother who’s always complaining to Navid about his sweets and never gets anywhere with him. This show is brilliant, and still a gem. – joseph doyle
towN News... Covid-19 has halted nearly every sporting event and every domestic championship so this year there will be no UEFA Champions League cup final, no Olympics, no festivals, etc. We are in our second week of lockdown in Ireland due to this global pandemic that the world has never seen before. In Ireland it’s like America in prohibition times with pubs and restaurants and discos closed, even hotels. It’s an economic armageddon. In 1981 a well known doctor in the U.S. predicted this would happen. He wrote a book on it but everybody laughed at him and said he should be put in a mental institution because he was mad, but he was right, it did happen. Also Nostradamus may have predicted this as well stating that in a twin year a new virus
best wishes ☺ Happy birthdays in these harsh times to April Breen, Mary doyle, Breda Pepper, Ciarán Breen, Fiacre Ryan, shauna Martha, niamh Kennedy, M o s s y Ry a n , M a r g o Whelan O’Brien, Joan Maguire, gretta Carley, Michelle O’neill Kehoe, John Joseph Hoare and publican niall Holohan. ☺ Slaney News would like to wish all the best to two new businesses which opened recently – Milano Takeaway on Market Sq. (formerly ABC) and Enniscorthy Sporting Depot (Stephen Leacy) at the Duffry. – joseph doyle
would sweep the world bringing with it death and global economic destruction. This pandemic could go on in Ireland until the end of May or even June so stay safe, stay at home, and wash your hands. Regarding the recent outcry at the possible rehousing of 50 female asylum seekers in Enniscorthy, I would like to mention the fact that none of our elected TDs or elected Councillors, or residents of the Shannon, were told of this in advance. It has since emerged that the move is not going ahead but the principle remains that local residents and their elected representatives should be consulted about such decisions to allow them have their say in such matters. – joseph doyle
ill resume our w e w ll e w g in o g ll A May issue. Diary Dates in our
c.f. News & fuNdraisers C.F. Awareness Day on 10th April 2020 will be online only. Joseph Doyle’s Coffee Morning and Lecture planned for 24th April, in The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, has been postponed. Malin2Mizen Cycle4CF on May 7th. One in 1,000 - the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon. Sun 31st May. Paris2Nice Cycle on 17th September. Table Quiz in Doyle’s Pub, Enniscorthy, for Wexford Branch. International Walk - Bulgaria on 25th September. KBC Dublin Marathon on 25th October. TCS New York City Marathon on Sunday 1st November. Christmas Jumper Day on December 11th. for more on these and all cf events, and to check about any cancellations or postponements, check out: www.cfireland.ie
If you would like Joseph to mention an upcoming event or would like to send in pics of any occasion (weddings, birthdays, etc) for inclusion then email both doyleduffry@gmail.com and slaneynews@ gmail.com. The closing date for receiving material for this column is always the Wednesday before our publication date which is usually the first Monday of every month.
a useful guide froM johNNy...
Stephen Lacey
chaNged tiMes iN eNNiscorthy...
This time four years ago we came together to celebrate our independence. Now we must stay apart to protect our country and communities. Pic: Wexford County Council Photographers.
just a reminder folks that when this covid-19 crisis is over, to shop local and keep money in our town. Keep safe and keep washing your hands!
Slaney Sport
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2019 – A great year for Slaney Olympic Slaney Olympic Club Members at the Wexford Athletics Awards Night, L-R: Katey Gregan, Aoife Kavanagh, Marie Kinsella, Jessie O'Connor, Greta Roberts-Tyrrell and Denis Whelan.
The Mr Oil County Wexford Awards night took place on 7th March at the Riverside Park Hotel and slaney Olympic runners were acknowledged for their great year in 2019. Anne Gilshinan took home the County Wexford Masters Athlete of the Year Award and the award for record of the year. In total, Slaney Olympic had five team golds, three team silvers and four team bronzes. Below is a recap of the stellar 2019 year for Slaney Olympics. Master Cross Country: Team Bronze (Catherine Roche, Katey Gregan and Karolina Mroczek). Catherine Roche (3rd Place). Team Bronze (Jim Stafford, Jessie O’Connor, David Barron and Bobby Redmond). novice Road Race: Katey Gregan (3rd Place). Team Gold (Will Doyle, Jessie O’Connor, Billy Reck and Padraig Coone). Will Doyle (3rd Place). Intermediate Road Race: Team Silver (Katey Gregan, Aoife Kavanagh, Maura Neville and Esther O’Leary). Katey Gregan (2nd Place). Team Gold (David Mahon, Will
Doyle, John Foley and Billy Reck). David Mahon (2nd Place). Master Road Race: Team Bronze (Catherine Roche, K a t e y G re g a n a n d A o i f e Kavanagh. Catherine Roche (3rd Place). Team Silver (Ger Forde, Enda Cloake, David Mahon and Dara Cloake). Ger Forde (1st Place). Enda Cloake (3rd Place). David Barron (Over 50 Gold). Jim Stafford (Over 55 Gold). senior Road Race: Team Silver (Ger Forde, Enda Cloake, David Mahon and Dara Cloake). Ger Forde (1st Place). Enda Cloake (3rd Place). Half Marathon Championships: Team Gold (Catherine Roche, Sabina Sweeney and Ciara Kearney). Team Bronze (Tracy Kavanagh, Malgorzata Gosia and Irene Foley). Team Silver (David Kehoe, John Foley and Pat Codd). David Kehoe (2nd Place). novice Cross Country: Team Bronze (Sabina Sweeney, Marie Kinsella, Helena Browne
and Greta Roberts-Tyrrell). Team Gold (Denis Whelan, Dara Cloake, Padraig Coone and Conor Hyland). Denis Whelan (3rd Place). senior Cross Country: Team Bronze (Ger Forde, Enda Cloake, John Foley, Dara Cloake, Padraig Coone and Fergus Murphy). Ger Forde (1st Place). Enda Cloake (3rd Place). Intermediate Cross Country: Team Gold (Denis Whelan, John Foley, Dara Cloake, Billy Reck). Denis Whelan (1st Place). national Masters Indoor Championships: Anne Gilshinan has done it again with a Gold and World Record for the M55 Category in the 800m with a time of 2:20:15. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– Slaney Olympic would like to send out a HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Marie Chapman on recently completing her 150th Marathon! –––––––––––––––––––––––––– slaney olympic was founded in 1991 to support the running community around enniscorthy and wears the colours of wexford. n
Enniscorthy Athletic Club Enniscorthy success at Leinster Indoors Hockey Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, all hockey activity remains suspended. This means, among other things, that Enniscorthy Hockey Club has had to cancel its upcoming Easter camp at the Astro Active Centre. However, it is still planned to hold hockey camps this July and at Halloween.
Above: Enniscorthy Athletic Club athletes impressed at the Leinster Indoors championships in Abbotstown at the beginning of March. Master athletes Maggie, Deirdre, Emily and John, youth athlete Saidhbhe and junior athletes Blanaid, Ciara and Elizabeth amassed a great haul of medals between them. Congrats to all of them and coach Terence. Congrats also to the club on winning Senior Track and Field Club of the Year, and Senior Athlete (Michael Bowler) at the Co. Wexford Awards. n
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Enniscorthy Golf Club Enniscorthy Golf Club Captains’ drive-in at the beginning of March. Above: Meta Cummins (Ladies Captain, second from left), Jamie Donnelly (Junior Captain, centre), Pat Webster (Men's Captain, fourth from left). Right: Meta and Pat going green for the occasion!
School Soccer Coaching Scheme The local school soccer Coaching scheme held a blitz some weeks ago at the Astro Centre, Bellefield Road, with County Wexford Community Workshop (CWCW) and youthreach Enniscorthy supplying four teams between them. Hotly contested games saw CWCW ‘A’ team win through on a scoreline of 2-1 with a brace from Cloughbawn man Peter Murphy with a late goal from Matiss Krumins not enough for Youthreach. CWCW ‘B’ team played Youthreach ‘B’ team which Youthreach won 3-2 with a hat-trick from Michael
Fortune, Shamrock Rovers, and with a brace from Gary O’Farrell, CWCW. The final saw CWCW ‘A’ play Youthreach ‘B’ which went to penalties after a 0-0 scoreline, with CWCW coming out on top 5-4 on penalties .
Organisers Cllr John O’Rourke and Ross Cleary of CWCW Ltd would like to say a huge thanks to all who coached, refereed and participated. And thanks also to Wexford Co. Council and LCDC for their support. n
Participants: Youthreach (above), CWCW (below).
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Slaney Arts & Heritage
6 April 2020
A family memoir I was delighted to be at Enniscorthy Library on 5th March for the launch of Me father was a hero, Me Mother is a saint by the very affable author Eamonn sheridan, who had us all fascinated and entertained with this beautifully recounted memoir which covers his own family’s history from the 1900s to present day. The book tells the story of E a m o n n ’ s f a t h e r, J a m e s Sheridan, and his colourful career in the 1st Battalion Dublin Brigade Old IRA during the War of Independence. James was incarcerated in Mountjoy Jail when Kevin Barry was executed and later during the Civil War he was arrested and spent time in Portlaoise Prison and later still due to poor economic cir-
Pic: Maria Nolan.
Pic: Maria Nolan.
WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING
Above: Author Eamonn Sheridan (centre) with wife Linda and Enniscorthy Librarian Jarlath Glynn.
cumstances he was forced to join the British Army during WWII and served in North Africa, Sicily and Italy. Eamonn, one of 12 children, said he watched his mother struggle to bring up her
large family during very difficult times, including her husband’s child with another woman whom she took in and raised as her own. He has wonderful admiration for this strong, loving, hard-working
woman who gave everything to her family. An intriguing tale by any standards and eloquently and lovingly told by a delightful storyteller. – Maria Nolan
PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRE WHEN IT REOPENS
Viewing the ‘Plastic’ exhibition in Wexford County Hall on 2nd March: Eileen Morrissey (Wexford County Librarian), Michael Sheehan (Chairman Wexford Co. Council) and Cllr Jim Codd.
Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764. The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000.
The Presentation Centre improvises... The Presentation Centre in Enniscorthy strives to make art and art events accessible to all. The Annual Open Call Exhibition is a testament to that goal with submissions growing each year showcasing an astounding level of skill and talent from artists all over Co. Wexford and further afield. This opportunity gives creative individuals a chance to explore their practice, extend their experiences and see their work realised within a gallery context. All art forms are represented including film, sculp-
with Maria Nolan
I have to say I loved everything about this gorgeous book, particularly the title – Where the Crawdads Sing has an ethereal, numinous, otherworldly nuance to it like over the sea and far away or where the ocean meets the sky or way out in the wild blue yonder and I was immediately taken with this extremely moving and exquisitely written debut novel by Delia Owens. Set in the marshes of North Carolina it tells the tale of Catherine Danielle Clarke or Kya – the Marsh girl – as she is known to inhabitants of the small, remote and bigoted coastal community of Barkley Cove. Abandoned by her dysfunctional family at the tender age of 7 and left to fend for herself, it might be a wee stretch of the imagination to follow this wonderful wild child as she becomes almost totally self sufficient and develops into a beautiful, talented and wise young woman, without ever having spent a single day in the State’s educational system. But the writing is just so fine and the descriptions of the Carolina wetlands and its inhabitants so pungent and palpable that the reader easily overlooks these small imaginative expanses. Delia Owens’ literary brilliance makes you fall completely in love with both the landscape and her characters – Kya, almost half human, half wild animal, Tate – a kind-hearted young boy who befriends her and teaches her to read and write to the extent that she eventually becomes a recognised writer and expert on the marshlands and its magical wildlife, Jumpin and his wife Mabel – a kindly black couple who look out for Kya as she grows without either smothering her or infringing on her independence and the rather diverse life she leads. It’s all very earthy and wildly descriptive and so well executed by the author that I could have read about it forever but there is also another storyline to this charming novel which you are aware of from the very beginning – a body has been found in a small coastal town – it’s golden boy, the handsome footballer and womaniser Chase Andrews has been found dead in suspicious circumstances and Barkley Cove’s prejudiced eyes naturally turn toward the Swamp’s wild child – Kya. Set in Southern Carolina in the 1950s and 60s, this novel also gives the reader a flavour of the bigotry, racism and intolerance of the period. I cannot recommend it highly enough, small wonder it topped the New York Times Best Seller List of both 2019 and 2020 for a total of 30 nonconsecutive weeks. It’s a very good story, lyrically and poetically told, by an author who uses language exquisitely to capture the true beauty of the nature all around us. – Maria Nolan
ture, drawing and performance, and exhibitors include amateur artists, students, children and and professional artists. The fifth Annual Open Call exhibition was due to open to the public on 27th March at The Presentation Centre but unfortunately it is not open due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the ever-inventive staff at the Centre have improvised and are showcasing the submissions on social media (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) until the actual exhibition can go ahead. n
Co. Wexford entries to the fore in Texaco Children’s Art competition Triona O’Connor with her lustrous sculpture 'Dreaming' – one of the works featured in the online preview for the 5th Annual Open Call Exhibition.
LOCAL LIBRARY NEWS For updates check out: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries/events for what’s coming up in your local library. also, check your local library on facebook.
Judging of the 25,800 entries received in this year’s Texaco Children’s Art Competition is currently underway with winners due to be announced in mid-April. Pictured above is adjudicator Colleen Watters admiring two of the entries received from students in Co. Wexford. On the left, a work entitled ‘Birthday Party’ by a pupil from St. Joseph's Primary School, Creagh, in Gorey and another entitled ‘Parrot Paradise’, by a pupil from St. Aidan's Primary School, Enniscorthy. In all, over 400 young Wexford artists submitted entries this year. Currently in its 66th year, the Texaco Children’s Art Competition is the longest-running art sponsorship in Ireland. First held in 1955, it is hosted annually by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited – the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand. n
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