Slaney News, Issue No. 124, August 2020 by Frank Corcoran

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Issue 124 - Monday - 3 August 2020

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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.

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Construction work on the first building in Enniscorthy’s new Technology Park, beside the old St. Senan’s Hospital, is expected to start within a matter of weeks. Eventually there will be 100,000 sq.ft. of high quality office space available at the 38-acre site.

Artist’s impression

While there has been a frustrating delay on the commencement of construction work on the Enniscorthy Flood Defence Scheme, there is plenty of good news at this time involving Enniscorthy’s ambitious investment plans which revolve around a €30m investment in tourism, the regeneration of the Templeshannon area and the commencement of construction work at Enniscorthy’s new Technology Park. See page 5 inside for details.

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3 August 2020

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comment At this time with Covid-19 still a major threat to the country, it’s good to be able to report some postive local news on the health front. Planning permission for a new primary care centre at Quarrypark, Enniscorthy, is being sought by Estuary Primary Healthcare Ltd for the construction of a new three-storey Primary Care Centre including: General Practitioner’s Surgery Pharmacy Unit Ancillary Medical Unit HSE and TUSLA facilities. The news has been welcomed by local TD James Browne who said: “A new primary care centre for Enniscorthy is essential to provide modern public health care. It is something I raised numerous times in the last Dáil and I welcome this latest step in delivering on this vital project.” And further good news is the appointment of a permanent child and adolescent psychiatrist for Wexford South. Dr Gabriel Scheer has been appointed and will be based in the newly opened CAMHS (Child & Adult Mental Health Service) headquarters in Arden House, Wexford Town. Deputy Browne believes: “The permanent appointment of a child psychiatrist is something that a lot of people have fought hard for. Parents, extended families, South East Radio, local HSE management and politicians all worked hard towards this goal. It has been one of my key priorities and I am delighted to see that appointment finally happen. There is a lot more to be done for child mental health, but this appointment is critical. I wish Dr Scheer all the best in his permanent role.” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– With the remainder of the country’s pubs due to reopen on 10th August (Covid-19 rates permitting), the much-spoken-about temporary pedestrianisation of Enniscorthy’s town centre in the evenings, from Friday to Sunday, can commence in earnest on Friday 14th August. We wish all businesses the very best of luck under the plan. – Frank Corcoran

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: Alba Restaurant Holohan’s Pub Shang Hai Golden City Lotus House T. Doyle’s Pub Enniscorthy Kebabish Mizzoni’s TJ Murphy’s FFC Carry Out Templeshannon Dawson’s Bar Bellefield GAA complex –––––––––––––––––––– Kavanagh’s Pharmacy Uptown Kuts Enniscorthy Cabs Hilltop Dry Cleaners Aideen Vonno Beauty Booth Pet Corner Enniscorthy Sporting Depot Presentation Centre Greenville Stores SuperValu Pettitts Gonzaga House Doyles Bar, The Duffry Gala Duffry Hope Centre The Wilds Copper Pan Enniscorthy Cabs –––––––––––––––––––– 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 Ashmore Financial Services 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 –––––––––––––––––––– Main Post Office IFA Centre Bank of Ireland AIB Wexford Local Development Enniscorthy Credit Union Enniscorthy Castle Frizelle O’Leary Solicitors Property Team M.A. O'Leary Burger Macs Hope Shop IWA Charity Shop Coffee Shop Abbey Centre Bizzy Fingers City Fashions AJ Pets –––––––––––––––––––– Sami’s South East Animal Rescue Sherry FitzGerald O'Leary Monica’s Hair Salon Phoenix Estates Crystal Script Kennys for Bikes Maura Flannery’s Shop The Antique Tavern Impresso Cafe Day Today

Cotton Tree Cafe –––––––––––––––––––– Library Riverside Park Hotel Rejuvenate Treatment Rooms St John’s Hospital 1798 Centre –––––––––––––––––––– Mackin Travel Orchard Fruit & Veg Shop GX3 Scissors Sisters Put A Bow On It Finishing Touches Crew Cuts Sofia’s Galo Chargrill George’s Hair Salon Town Council Offices River Restaurant Milano’s Community Info. Service O’Leary Travel Eir The Holy Grail Stamps Sandro’s Wickham Bros Delaneys Newsagents Toffee & Thyme O’Brien’s, Court Street Cut & Shave Serenity Place Rackards Court Street Dental Clinic Court Street Medical Centre Citizens Advice Centre Easons Grants Pharmacy Cutting Edge Curls My Café Turkuts Bridget’s Hair Salon Darcy Blinds & Interiors Little Spoon Coffee Shop Hair Salon Inspiration –––––––––––––––––––– Millstream Fish Shop Butcher’s Cottage / Bakery Dunnes Stores The Bailey

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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 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

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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 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 response is needed.

Civil defence needs you! Check out www.civildefence.ie. enniscorthy flood defence The main construction work is not expected to start until next year and will take three years to complete. 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. Cancelled until further notice. More information: 087-1377068.

Slaney News: Local Writers Local Publisher Local News

orchard peace park The Orchard Peace Park is open from 8am to 8pm and is an ideal location for relaxation during the summer. The park was officially opened one year ago and its gently sloping site creates a beautiful urban park linking The Presentation Centre with Irish Street. santa’s enchanted castle It may only be August but plans are well advanced to have the biggest and best Santa’s Enchanted Castle yet in Enniscorthy Castle. n

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Slaney News

View from the Hill

A local contributor looks at life today in Enniscorthy and beyond

3 August 2020 IS THE END NEAR? A question I’m sure many of us have asked ourselves over the past number of months in relation to Covid-19 and its fallout. Maybe we will ask it again before we get to the end of this. However, my question relates to the political world rather than our health. So, is the end near for the political model which we have become accustomed to? For decades Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have been the major players in our political arena with the Labour Party taking up the rear with about a half-party status. The last couple of elections have seen the utter demolition of this structure. We now have a situation where three parties – Fianna Fáil, Sinn Féin and Fine Gael are almost equal in terms of seat numbers with the Labour Party relegated to a minor position being overshadowed now by the Greens (however long that will last) and with the same number of seats as the Social Democrats. The future will be most interesting for all of the parties. Will Alan Kelly succeed in bringing Labour back from the dead? In fairness to Kelly he has a mammoth task. With Sinn Féin riding the crest of a wave and taking up with the Social Democrats a lot of

the political space formerly occupied by Labour, the task of winning back support will not be easy. They have only six seats and the memories of the role of Labour being the proponents of austerity between 2011 and 2016 will not go away. Political memory may be short but not that short. For Sinn Féin the only direction they can go in the next decade is up. They have been handed the opportunity of a lifetime by both Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael and even Labour by their actions in holding their noses every time Sinn Féin was mentioned in relation to government formation. Inwardly, Sinn Féin were delighted of course, they were then able to paint themselves as martyrs who had achieved a majority of support in the election but were now being disenfranchised. They did not of course receive anything like a majority but managed to sell this myth to the public. They got about a third of the votes cast. Nevertheless, the actions of the other parties have put Sinn Féin in poll position to dominate the Opposition for the next number of years which you can be sure they will avail of. Fine Gael seem to have got the best of the three-party government deal. They are still swaggering around as if they were the lead party and in

“For Sinn Fein the only direction they can go in the next decade is up.”

fact their ministers, Varadkar, Coveney, Harris, Humphreys etc are far better known than any of the new Fianna Fáil ministers. That is to be expected in the early days of a new government one would assume. More importantly, the policies of this government are almost identical to the previous one so no great change for Fine Gael. They have now become the natural party of government and will remain so for the foreseeable future, despite currently having less seats than either Fianna Fáil or Sinn Féin. Fianna Fáil are a different story. This party expected to return at least 55 to 60 seats in the recent election. Instead they came back with 38. Many

of their avid, loyal supporters put this down to the Confidence and Supply Agreement of the previous Dáil. Despite this, the leadership at least of the party appear to have been determined to get into government with anyone other than Sinn Féin. And that is where they are and will remain for three, four or maybe five years. The big question is what will happen then. Well, here’s an early prediction. Sinn Féin will be the big winners of this Dáil. It doesn’t take a genius to figure that out. Not only will they get their traditional support and that of those who vote anti government anyway, but they will also pick up many Fianna Fáil supporters who will migrate to them.

Fine Gael will do quite well for a number of reasons. The principal one is that those who support them will remain loyal and more importantly there is no party on the right to migrate to. They will also possibly pick up support from soft Fianna Fáil supporters who will now, after seeing both parties in government together, question the need for two such similar parties. Fianna Fáil will be the big losers. They will lose their distinct identity and will lose supporters to both the left and the right. They may become the Labour Party of old being a party to which Sinn Féin or Fine Gael will turn to as a rump to make up numbers. One wonders what the old Fianna Fáil warriors of the past would think of it all. Not much I suspect. However, as things progress, don’t rule out the possibility of a major revolt from within Fianna Fáil as the dedicated members of the party see their once most formidable organisation being relegated to a poor third place in the political rankings. Exciting days ahead for political anoraks then. Any observations or comments on this column feel free to email: viewcolumn@gmail.com

Ambitious investment plan for Enniscorthy plans to transform enniscorthy into a thriving economic hub and landmark tourist destination are continuing at pace. that was the message of Wexford county council’s head of special projects brian Galvin when he addressed the July meeting of enniscorthy Municipal district. tourisM proJect Central to the Council’s plans is the redevelopment and enhancement of Enniscorthy Castle, including an adjoining visitor centre with café facilities together with a state-of-the-art audio-visual experience to reimagine the history of Enniscorthy. The overall master plan also includes a longerterm ambition to create a car and coach park at the Turret Rocks with a cable car connection to the Castle to help transform Enniscorthy into a landmark visitor destination. This ambitious tourism plan is likely to cost €30m and would take place in 3 major phases. Phase 1 involves work at the Castle itself, purchase of adjoining property, and the opening up of new space

around the Castle to allow it “reveal” itself and facilitate outdoor experiences – wander the grounds, meet the Normans, guided tours, kids activities, interactive experiences, etc. This phase is likely to cost €8m and attract an extra 50,000 visitors p.a. to Enniscorthy. Phase 2 involves a Welcome Hub/Cafe/Black Box experience. The cafe would be high quality, like the Avoca cafes, and specialising in local food produce. In summer, the cafe could “spill out” into the adjoining Castle grounds. The Black Box is essentially a digital space all of which is usable – floor, ceiling, walls to create a modern, cutting-edge, interactive, immersive experience. The main story to be told there is Enniscorthy’s history up to the present day, but the space would be multipurpose so could also be used for other immersive exhibitions, and when not being used in a digital way could be used by the town for lots of other purposes – indoor market, meetings, exhibitions, etc. To experience a flavour of this Black Box idea, readers can check out the Paris-based Atelier

des Lumières website. This phase of the town’s tourism plan could cost around €9m and attract an extra 140,000 visitors p.a. to Enniscorthy. The last major phase (phase 3) would be a car and coach park at Turret Rocks with cablecar access, across the River Slaney, to the Castle from there. This phase will only happen if and when the first two phases are successfully implemented, and this phase would likely cost around €13m and would require substantial private investment. This phase is projected to attract 400,000 extra visitors to Enniscorthy every year! Needless to say, all of this is not going to happen overnight. Phase 1 could start in 2022 after a detailed project plan is drawn up, planning permission is received, land acquisition is completed, etc. Phases 2 and 3 will take several years more after that. The plan has received broad support from Enniscorthy’s Councillors, and local TD James Browne believes Enniscorthy could become “the Westport of the South East”.

An artist’s impression of a proposed new building to be constructed at Enniscorthy’s new Technology Park.

teMpleshannon The Council’s proposals for the re d e v e l o p m e n t o f t h e Te m p l e s h a n n o n a re a o f Enniscorthy were also discussed at the July meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District. Plans here include a major public realm investment to improve accessibility and to make the area attractive to shoppers and visitors, and the construction of a new pedestrian bridge to increase connectivity between Templeshannon and the Slaney Street area. There are also proposals to develop three urban blocks within Templeshannon for re-development to facilitate new commercial and economic development opportunities in the area. The original contentious plan to have a one-way traffic flow through the area has been scrapped. To facilitate two-way traffic and wider footpaths, a CPO on some buildings in the area may be required. Full details will be brought to a future meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District for discussion. technoloGy park Regarding the new Technology Park beside the old St Senan’s

A typical European cable-car. Enniscorthy could see something similar in the years ahead.

Hospital in Enniscorthy, Wexford County Council has agreed to sell a long leasehold interest (500 years) in site no.1 to a development company, Moyne Point Ltd, which is expected to start work on the site within a matter of weeks. The purchaser will construct a modern business unit as per the planning permission which has already been granted. Site one measures about 3.5 acres and the agreed price is €288,040 by way of a lease for 500 years at a nominal rent of

The spectacular visuals at Atelier des Lumières in Paris. Something similar is envisaged for Enniscorthy.

€1 per annum. The same company also has an option to buy site no.2 which measures just under 3 acres, for €205,484. Negotiations are underway with a different company interested in site no.3. There are seven sites in total at the new Technology Park. The Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, welcomed the news emphasising that the first building there will be ‘the first passive office building on the island of Ireland’. old courthouse Another Enniscorthy building with job-creation potential is the old Courthouse. On page 28 we report on plans by financial services company, OPUS Fund Services, to move to that premises later this year to facilitate its continuing growth and to create more jobs in the town. It’s plan is to employ 100 people over the next few years. In future issues we will be reporting in more detail on all the above projects. n

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Slaney News

3 August 2020

Enniscorthy’s new smoky coal ban a ban on the burning of smoky coal will be extended to all towns in ireland with populations of over 10,000 (including enniscorthy) from september 1st, following Minister for the environment eamon ryan’s recent signing of the necessary regulations. The 13 urban areas affected are Carrigtohill, Cobh, Midleton and Mallow all in Co. Cork; Killarney, Co. Kerry; Cavan town; Longford town; Castlebar and Ballina in Co. Mayo; Tullamore, Co. Offaly; Tramore, Co. Waterford; Ashbourne, Co. Meath; and Enniscorthy in Co. Wexford. Recent research suggests that the smoky coal ban in Dublin city has resulted in 350 approx fewer deaths every year. This is backed up by a European Environment Agency report last year which indicated that in 2016 there were

1,180 premature deaths arising from air pollution in Ireland. Last December, the government was defeated when the Dáil passed a private members’ motion calling for a national ban on smoky coal. Fianna Fáil and the Green Party supported a full ban. But then-Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said the State could not introduce the ban because of the threat of legal action by coal distributors who claim turf and wood are more damaging to the environment. Mr Ryan said he was very pleased to sign the regulations which are enforced by local authorities. He said it would reduce air pollution, promote public health and save lives. “Fine particulate matter, the pollutant of most concern from domestic solid fuel burning is linked to a range of diseases, he said, including stroke, heart

Cllr Cathal Byrne on the Smoky Coal Ban in Enniscorthy: “I’m glad to see it finally rolled out for the town.”

disease, lung cancer, and both chronic and acute respiratory diseases, including asthma.” The penalty for breaching the ban is a fine of between €250 and €1,000. Gorey Senator, Malcolm Byrne, has welcomed the extension of the ban on the burning

Johnny Mythen – active as ever in his new offices

of smoky coals in Enniscorthy along with 12 other additional towns from 1st September. Malcolm has been pushing for such a ban for some time to help improve air quality and assist those with respiratory illnesses and breathing difficulties. He said, “We need to go much further, however. Up to 1,500 people a year die in Ireland because of poor air quality and we need to do everything we can to help those with asthma or who have difficulty breathing.” Malcolm believes a nationwide ban on the burning of smoky fuels is necessary. The introduction of the ban in Enniscorthy has been welcomed by local Councillor Cathal Byrne: “This is something that I have been working on over the past year and I’m glad to see it finally rolled out for the town.” n

Parish of St. Senan First Holy Communion Dates Due to Covid-19, the parish can only facilitate class celebrations over several weeks as opposed to one large gathering. 11.00am Saturday, 1st August 2020 – Class 2A. 11.00am Saturday, 8th August 2020 – Class 2B. 11.00am Saturday, 22nd August 2020 – Class 2C. 11.00am Saturday, 29th August 2020 (optional date if the date assigned doesn’t suit). Unfortunately, due to the current regulations and for the safety of all, it will be strictly 1 child with 2 adults only.

neW speed liMits The long-awaited changes to the speed limits on the road from Clogh to Oylegate have taken place so effectively the speed limit on that road is now 100km per hour (up from 80km) except for the stretch between the Scarawalsh roundabout and Enniscorthy which remains at 80km per hour to facilitate future industrial a and commercial development along that stretch of road. n

fareWell fundraiser Yellow Rose Boutique, run by the vivacious Trish Rackard, recently closed in style by holding a fundraising sale for the charity – OCF (Oesophageal Cancer Fund). The amount raised was €1,700 – a great achievement by Trish and her staff. Trish sends a big THANK YOU to everyone who supported her shop over the years and all who supported her charity sale. n

tidy toWn association Due to the uncertainty created by the Covid-19 virus, the Enniscorthy Tidy Town Association has decided to suspend this year’s Annual Garden and Environmental Competitions. It has also been decided that The National Tidy Towns’ Competition will not go ahead this year. The local committee encourages everyone to continue with the good work in their own areas to enhance the beauty and attractiveness of our town. The creativity shown by many over the years over the years is much appreciated by the committee and the citizens of the town. n

st aidan’s – first confession and holy coMMunion dates Following a meeting with the Principal of the parish school of St Aidan’s, the following dates have been decided for the First Confession and First Holy Communion of the children who have just finished second class and who will return to Third class in September. There will be one ceremony per class for both First Confession and First Holy Communion as shown below. Each child can be accompanied by a maximum of four adults, preferably parents and godparents. first confession: Ms. Mackin’s Class – Tuesday 22nd September at 7pm; Ms. Murphy’s class – Wednesday 23rd September at 7pm; Mr. Fardy’s Class – Tuesday 29th September at 7pm; Ms. Varley/Ms. Bailey’s class – Wednesday 30th September at 7pm. first communion: Ms. Makin’s Class – Saturday 3rd October at 12 noon; Ms. Murphy’s Class – Saturday 3rd October at 2pm; Mr Fardy’s Class – Saturday 17th October at 12 noon; Ms. Varley/Ms. Bailey’s class – Saturday 17th October at 2pm. The parish encourages all parents of the children to continue to prepare them for these sacraments by praying with them in the home and in the parish. n

Quad problem on Mount Leinster enniscorthy td, Johnny Mythen, recently opened his new offices in enniscorthy to better serve the people of the co. Wexford constituency. and he has certainly been busy since his poll-topping election to the current dáil. One area of concern for him is the plight of the elderly and he has called on the government to re-establish a Hardship Fund for elderly people. He is looking for a one-off grant in co-operation with Age Action Ireland and the Irish Red Cross to assist vulnerable elderly people affected by the ongoing pandemic. Teachta Mythen said: ‘In April of this year Age Action Ireland, in cooperation with the Irish Red Cross, launched the Covid-19 Hardship Fund. In my opinion this was an excellent idea, aiming to provide a once-off support for

the elderly to purchase necessary resources for their physical and mental well-being during the pandemic. ’Over 21,000 applications were received from across the country, including many applications from Co. Wexford. With €103,000 fundraised, only 453 applications were granted. This was not Age Action Ireland or the Irish Red Cross’ fault. They petitioned the Department of Social Protection to provide assistance in meeting this demand. It is a disgrace that these calls were ignored and instead many vulnerable elderly people were left with no additional financial support during this difficult time. ‘Sinn Féin have spoken with representatives from Age Action Ireland and they have expressed their deep frustration at this. Many of these

applications were from people who relied on external supports, such as day-care centres which are still not open while others required technology to assist in maintaining social and familial relationships.’ Deputy Mythen says ALONE volunteers are feeling ‘overwhelmed by the levels of emotional distress’ expressed by callers. It was also revealed that from 9th March – 28th June ALONE has received 25,291 calls from older people and made 119,079 calls. ‘Elderly people are most at risk from this virus. For too long now, they have been overlooked and discarded by governments and now they are suffering in isolation. We need to lend a helping hand to this vulnerable cohort and support this once-off payment,” concluded Deputy Mythen. n

the Slaney News has been contacted by a number of regular walkers on Mount leinster who are angry about the state of their walking areas caused by quad bikers. One walker (who took the accompanying photos) told us, “It’s a real mud trap and raceway now. There’s been

serious damage to a 5km ridge used by hundreds of walkers every Sunday... these quads were banned from the beach and now they are wrecking the mountain.” Perhaps some of our local Councillors could take an interest in this matter and try and resolve the problem. n

Quad bikers pictured in recent days on Mount Leinster.

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TOWN TALK

WITH

KEITH DOYLE

“YOU WOULD THINK IT WAS THEIR FIRST BARN DANCE” I met an elderly lady recently who happens to be a lifelong supporter of Fianna Fáil. The first thing she asked me was how did I feel about the new Government. I could not answer her so she replied to me, "You would think it was their first barn dance.” She was right. One would normally give the new guys 100 days before being over-critical but this is no ordinary set-up. This new alignment in politics is ground-breaking in many ways and it was bound to be under the microscope to see how it could work. It would have expected some probing from the opposition and the media to see if it was built on sound ground but what we

CALL OUT THE LITTER LOUTS!

how often have you been in a car when one of the other passengers have opened a window and chucked out an empty coffee cup, the packaging waste from a takeaway or an empty plastic bottle? have you noticed your friends or family fling out a cigarette butt or cigarette box? Wexford Co. Council, as part of a recent regional roadside litter campaign, called for everyone in the South East to help eliminate roadside litter. The “call out litter louts” campaign asked everyone in the company of those who chuck litter from their car window to do one simple thing – “call them out” on this disgusting and senseless behaviour. Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Councillor Ger Carthy, welcomed this campaign. “It is fantastic to see collaboration between Local Authorities working together to try to combat this ongoing issue,” said the Cathaoirleach. “We are all in the company of these litter louts from time to time, they all have friends and family who don’t agree with their disgusting behaviour, we need to play our part and call them out on their actions. Those

3 August 2020

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responsible for roadside littering are undermining the substantial work carried out by many committed volunteers from Residents’ Associations and Tidy Towns Groups who work alongside our local Councils to keep our counties looking their best,” he concluded. “The National Litter Monitoring Survey reports that for Co. Wexford, a whopping 73% of littering is caused by passing pedestrians and motorists,” says Hugh Maguire of Wexford County C o u n c i l ’ s E n v i ro n m e n t Section. “Roadside litter damages our environment and our wildlife, as well as creating unnecessary and costly work for local Councils and tidy towns groups. Littered roadsides also give an unfair and inaccurate impression of local residential areas and has a significant negative impact on tourism in the South East. It’s easy to blame the local take-away or motorway service stations,” he adds, “but it’s up to each individual to ensure that their litter is appropriately disposed of.“ To learn more please email environment@wexfordcoco.ie, call 053 9196000 or follow Wexford Co. Council on Twitter. n

have seen is like something out of a drama on the BBC. In the lifetime of any regime you would have some calls for some Ministers to resign, and some fall-off in the TDs supporting them. Here there is one Minister and two Green TDs gone in a short few weeks and not for just one issue but a sequence of schoolboy errors which is breathtaking. From how the BARRY COWEN issue was dealt with, to mixed messages coming from cabinet, and not to mention giving the Super Junior Ministers a €16,000 rise. Why not throw in a few u-turns for good measure. One wonders is Micheál Martin jinxed. It is already clear that this 3-in-a-relationship is

going to be more fraught with danger than was anticipated. The Whips will earn their money. This will be a golden era for SINN FÉIN. They are the voice of opposition with plenty of airtime to discuss each and every issue that lands right in their lap. Right now they are falling over with good content to oppose and to reinforce into the mindset of the masses that they are the only ones on the side of the people fighting for the people. Maybe the option that Fianna Fáil had of being in opposition is looking like a lost opportunity right now. So what is in store for this administration? This is not clear. It may recover its composure or events may overtake us like

Cllr Owens advocating for Slaney Search & Rescue

cllr Jackser owens has been a long-time advocate for slaney search & rescue. At the July Enniscorthy Municipal District meeting, Cllr Owens proposed that the local Council give Slaney Search & Rescue (SSR) a civic reception to recognise its 25 years of voluntary service to the community. Cllr Owens at the same meeting spoke in favour of the installation of a floating pontoon on the river at the Promenade, Enniscorthy, for use by SSR “as currently in an emergency sit-

uation if the tide is out, they have to launch from Edermine which is 30 minutes of valuable time wasted, and every minute counts.” The pontoon idea is favoured by Town Manager Ger Mackey who sees the benefit of SSR being able “to respond quicker to incidents where somebody gets into difficulties, particularly in the vicinity of town.” With widespead support from the local Councillors, the project is likely to proceed in the near future. n

WEXFORD RAPE CRISIS CENTRE the official ‘turning of the sod’ by cathaoirleach of Wexford co. council, cllr Ger carthy, for the new Wexford rape crisis centre in Wexford

town, took place last month. the centre which is being built by a local company will be completed and ready for use later this year. n

what happened with the Covid19 and they may excel like Fine Gael did in the hour of crisis. That is the beauty of politics. One can never predict the future but one should be able to see the dark clouds. Going back to the foundation of the Fianna Fáil party, there have always been factions, and today is no exception. A few future contenders to the throne are licking their wounds and are embarking on the chicken and chips tour of the party to gather up support. Charlie was successful on this route. Behind them in the Dáil we have some TDs that are destined for the backbenches playing jockey, trying to be with a winner to increase their chances for the

future. Biding their time waiting to pounce. And all the while Rome is burning. The Green Party have their issues too, but different types of issues, but just as deadly for this administration. The make-up of that party has always been so diverse in their view as to how to get to their end game on green matters. Some more radical than others, and some that see time is of the essence. So within this structure brings its own pressures which we will see in time. All the while Fine Gael is wondering how did they get dragged into this and the elderly lady is muttering will any of them be there when the barn dance plays its last song. n

Enniscorthy Castle and 1798 Centre are open for business following all the controversy over whether it would be sold or not, it’s great to see that the national 1798 rebellion centre reopened to the public on 29th of June 2020 as per the government’s roadmap for ending the lockdown. The National 1798 Rebellion Centre remembers and honours a highly significant event in Irish history and all are welcome to visit and explore the insightful exhibition. Visitors are assured that the Centre has implemented

new policies and practices to ensure everyone’s safety is a top priority. Enniscorthy Castle is delighted to be open also and it too has implemented new structures and policies to keep both staff and visitors safe as they explore Enniscorthy’s amazing Castle. Remember also that a joint ticket can be purchased giving great value admission to both these iconic centres. The staff are looking forward to welcoming locals and visitors alike. n Enniscorthy Castle

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Wexford Greens welcome the new coalition government the Wexford Greens welcome the recent formation of a government involving the Green party at a crucial time for the country, saying, “the world was already facing a climate and biodiversity crisis before covid-19 presented us with considerable challenges. a jobs-led recovery laid out in the programme for government presents significant opportunities for Wexford as we decarbonise our economy and look forward to a brighter future for the south east.” In a statement, the group continues, “On the jobs front, Wexford is uniquely placed to take advantage of the jobsled recovery in clean energy generation with our long coastline for off-shore wind and many hours of sunshine for solar energy generation. “connecting Wexford with enhanced transport. In the programme for government there is a commitment to a threefold increase in passenger journeys on Local Link. This is the type of ruralfocused initiative the Green Party has promoted that will increase connectivity and mobility for people living in towns and villages across Wexford. Funding has been ringfenced for cycling and

walking, which can have a transformative effect on the county. Parents can look forward to safe cycling and walking for children on their way to and from school. Meanwhile, tourism in Wexford can expect a boost with the potential of additional Greenway projects and safe cycling in the county. However, we do recognise the lack of sustainable transport options for road and rail users and will constructively engage with all such future projects.

this programme for government is no different. The Wexford Greens see the unmet needs of the people of Wexford, particularly in, but not limited to healthcare and especially in the area of mental health. We will continue to be a voice for Wexford in influencing and advocating for services in the South East that match the requirements of those who most need them. Having campaigned on health and mental health reform and the introduction of Sláintecare during the 2020 general election, Green Party candidate for Wexford, Paula Roseingrave said, "We will continue to work with our TDs, MEPs and Senators to encourage them to put these issues at the top of the Green Party agenda over the term of this government". The Wexford Greens look forward to the ending of Direct Provision and a fairer system for those seeking refuge from conflict and persecution and a better life in Wexford and across Ireland. In addition, the Wexford Greens will continue to be an advocate for clean water, safe food and a healthy environment.

“a voice for Wexford. In every coalition there are compromises to be made and

“realising the potential in our communities. The Green Party recognises

Paula Roseingrave, the Green Party candidate in Co. Wexford in the 2020 General Election.

University for the south east – plans receive boost fianna fáil td for Wexford James browne has welcomed the appointment of Mr. tom boland to lead the development of the technological university in the south east. Deputy Browne commented, “I am delighted to see the appointment of Mr. Tom Boland to lead the developm e n t o f Te c h n o l o g i c a l University South East (TUSE). “The development of TUSE is something I have continually worked on. I insisted that TUSE be included in the Programme for Government document. Having the project enshrined in this document ensures it will be progressed and the appointment of Mr. Boland was an important step in this progression. “Mr. Boland comes to the role with a wealth of experience

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having previously served as Chief Executive of the Higher Education Authority. “The South East is one of the few areas of the country without a Technological University. Once established it will bring many jobs and educational opportunities to the region. “Currently, prospective students do not have an option to attend University close to home. Each academic year sees students journey to Cork, Dublin or Galway to continue their studies at third level. Once fully established, TUSE will give students in the South East the option to study from the region they grew up in while also providing a major economic boost to the South East,” concluded Deputy Browne. n

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that farmers are the primary custodians of the rural environment. A key objective of the programme for government is to protect and enhance the incomes and livelihoods of family farms as we embrace the mission of delivering on climate change and biodiversity objectives. The programme for government outlines an ambitious project for the retrofitting of houses. The initiative will not only see people living in warmer homes but will reduce the cost of living through lower heating bills and considerably reduce our carbon emissions. A wide-ranging apprenticeship programme will be kick started, which will mean young people in Wexford can grow their careers while living in their communities. In addition, through the Town Centre First policy, we will see villages and towns in Wexford regenerated and communities strengthened long into the future. The Green Party is of the view that this provides the key to a sustainable future and towards climate resilience. However, this ambition can only be realised by a new departure in how our urban spaces are organised and in how we act to unlock their immense potential.” n

Enniscorthy Flood Defence update the delay in starting the main work on the new enniscorthy flood defence scheme is a source of concern and frustration for all. in recent days local td paul kehoe has provided an update on where the scheme is at. “The Enniscorthy Flood Relief scheme has moved to the next stage in its development as a further public consultation is opened as part of the confirmation process of the environmental impact assessment report. Before the Minister can confirm the scheme, he must first determine if the scheme is likely to have A) a significant effect on the environment or B) have an impact on the integrity of a Natura 2000 Site. Public consultation is now being carried out as part of the confirmation process, and members of the public are invited to make a written submission with respect to: 1. The likely effects on t h e e n v i ro n m e n t o f t h e scheme. 2. The scheme’s impact on a Natura 2000 Site. Submissions can be made in writing at any time during the period of 30 days concluding on Thursday 27th

Paul Kehoe TD

August 2020 by one of the following methods: By email to: enniscorthyschemeconsultation@per.g ov.ie By post to: OPW Vote Section (Room 1.07), Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, Government Buildings, Upper Merrion St, Dublin 2, D02 R583. All submissions should include your name, contact address, contact details (including telephone number and email address) and details of any organisation being represented.” The confirmation process will be ongoing in 2020, with the main construction work work now due to begin in 2021. n

Planning sought for large scale development near Vinegar Hill planning permission is being sought for a large development on a site in clonhaston on the outskirts of enniscorthy, just past alcast, on the road to oulart. Many readers will be familiar with the site as being the old vinegar hill golf club. If permission is granted, the site will contain a twostorey plus basement, 90-bedroom nursing home and 97 housing units including apartments; 2-storey, 3-bedroom semi-detatched dwellings; and 3-bedroom semi-detatched

dormer bungalows. This development would be in addition to a number of other largescale developments being planned for the Clonhaston area. “battlesite Must be protected” – cllr cathal byrne Enniscorthy Municipal District Councillor, Cathal Byrne, is opposed to the application, saying: “I am very concerned by the recent application for planning permission for a 90bed nursing home together

What part of the Clonhaston site could look like.

with 97 residential houses in Clonhaston, Enniscorthy, under Planning Reference 20200700. “The archaeology report lodged with the Council as part of the planning application by the developer confirms that the site on which the buildings are proposed to be built is located on part of the battlefield of the Battle of Vinegar Hill which took place on the 21st June 1798. “Over the past few months, I have sought to ensure that the legacy of the 1798 Rebellion is protected by fighting for the

future of the 1798 Rebellion Centre. While I accept the need for extra nursing home spaces in the town, I am not convinced that this is the correct site for them to be built on. “In my opinion, the legacy and ideals of 1798 are too important to the people and the town of Enniscorthy to allow for this development to proceed. The battle site needs to be protected and preserved for future generations to visit and learn of the history associated with the site,” concluded Cllr Byrne. n

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The Changing Face of Enniscorthy as the world slowly emerges from lockdown, the business landscape of enniscorthy is rapidly changing. Covid-19 created a pause and in some cases a full stop in all our lives giving us time to reassess, re-evaluate and reconsider what’s important and what just isn’t. Some of our town retailers decided, for various reasons, that the time had come to call it a day and pull down their shutters and close their doors for the last time, one of those premises is the well known and much loved Burke O’Leary’s. Burke O’Leary’s has been an icon of the town since 1868 when James Burke arrived here from Stradbally, Co. Laois, and set up business and began to trade at a premises at the corner of Market Square and Cathedral Street. ‘As far as we know he came from a farming background around Stradbally but

we have no idea how he ended up in Enniscorthy,’ according to great-grandson and owner of the present-day business Seamus Burke O’Leary. ‘He began selling clothing, footwear and hardware where Kinsella’s Jewellery store used to be,’ Seamus continued, ‘specialising mainly in everyday and work wear’. James Burke met and marr i e d M a rg a re t H a r r i s o f Brownswood and the couple were blessed with five children before she died at the tender age of twenty-eight. One of their sons, Fintan Burke, fought in 1916 and ended up in Frongoch and later emigrated to the USA. Their daughter, Brid, went straight from school into the family business where her path crossed with Cornelius O’Leary from County Kerry who had done his apprenticeship in Thompsons Wholesalers. Brid and Con married and the well-known

Jim and Josephine O'Leary

Burke O`Leary double-barrel tag was born. Brid and Con had four children – Daniel, James, Margot and Anna and strangely enough it was James Burke’s namesake James who continued the business. James met and married a school friend of his sister Anna, Josephine Murphy, who was a wartime evacuee from London who came to live with her uncle Tom Murphy at his public house at Market Square (where Wickham Butchers is now). The couple moved to a premises on Mill Park Road and had six children, Bridget, Kate, John, Seamus, Daniel and Margaret who all worked in the premises at Rafter Street from a young age. Seamus, who has run the business now for nearly forty years, recalls in particular the Saturday nights in Enniscorthy when he was growing up. ‘Saturday night was really a night out in town for country people. Buses would come into Enniscorthy from Marshalstown, Ballindaggin and Kiltealy and the shops would all stay open late, sure it could be nearly 10pm when you would get to close up on Saturday nights.’ Seamus has very fond memories of his years running the business since his dad James, or JJ as he was known, passed away in 1982, and of all the people who worked in the shop over the years with a special word for ‘the legend’ Paddy Priestly who worked with three generations of the Burke O’Leary family. Burke O’Leary’s was part of the very fabric of Enniscorthy when I was growing up and it was a shop that

stocked everything from a needle to wellingtons, to delicate lingerie, despite Seamus’s favourite customer quote, ‘I know you haven’t got it but I`ll tell you what I’m looking for anyway.’ Seamus and his wife Helene ran the business in partnership with Seamus’s mother Josephine until her death in 2009 and over the years they would have done a thriving trade being the goto place for many a last minute item that couldn’t be found anywhere else. Seamus recalls Christmas Eve 1997 when due to a storm the electricity went out in Enniscorthy at 4pm. ‘I still remember a customer in the store at 8pm that evening with nothing but candlelight holding up a jumper wondering if it was black or navy before buying it.’ Seamus has great praise for the many local people who worked for the Burke O’Leary family over the years and is e x t re m e l y g l a d t h a t t h e premises will be now be used by County Wexford Community Workshop as a Training Centre for Young Adults. ‘I have done my forty years service,’ Seamus says with a smile, ‘it is time for me and us as a family to have a more relaxing life to enjoy together. Our boys, Finn and Michael, would not be going into the family business so the time has finally come to close the doors on Burke O’Leary’s but I am so glad to know that it will remain open providing an excellent service to those less fortunate and more vulnerable in our community.’ A worthy replacement indeed, but I, for one, lament the passing of another legacy of the great Enniscorthy houses

Above: James and Margaret Burke, founders, 1860. Below: Con and Bridget Burke-O'Leary.

of fashion of my childhood and the always pleasant, helpful and gracious Burke O`Leary family as they reconcile them-

selves to the pages of the town’s economic and social history. – Maria Nolan

Dogs in the news... Images from Wexford... Overflowing bins... While a spate of dog theft has grabbed local and national headlines in recent weeks, dogs are also in the news here in enniscorthy for another reason. A number of newdog bins have been installed around the town. Installing them is one thing, whether they’ll be used is another!!! Let’s hope so, so that the dog fouling which has plagued the town for many years, and has worsened since Covid-19 came on the scene, will be finally brought under some kind of control. The bins have been widely welcomed, including by Cllr Aidan Browne who has always been very vocal on this subject and he posted the accompanying photo on his Facebook page saying: “The first of many dog bins, this one is placed at Vinegar Hill and you will see more like this around Enniscorthy. This will hopefully reduce the amount of dog foul around our town.” n

‘Images from Wexford’ is a new Facebook group set up by photographer Brian McDonald, for people at home and abroad to post and view all genres of images of our own beautiful county – historical, people, sport, landscape, seascape, wildlife, drone, art and astronomy. Anything goes but it must be relevant to the Model County. Within a week 700 had joined the group with many posting stunning images of the county including this one by Brian himself, entitled "Purple and Gold" taken at Ferybank, Wexford, and achBINSieved using a long exposure. Check out “Images from Wexford” on Facebook.

cllr aidan browne has been promoting the idea of having a Qr style code on every public bin in co. Wexford. and it now looks like Wexford county council is going to run with the idea. This would allow people to report overflowing bins as well as illegal dumping at these bins in real time using their phone and thus ensuring a quick and targeted response. The issue has become much more prominent over the lockdown period with people spending a lot more time outdoors. If a bin is damaged or overflowing anyone with a smartphone can snap a picture of the QR code and report it to Wexford Co. Council. This generates a service request and the Council can

then send someone to attend to the issue asap. It takes less than a minute to report and it means the Council can target problem areas quickly. n

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BALLINDAGGIN CONFIRMATION

Ballindaggin National School Confirmation, 21st July, Ballindaggin Church. Above left: The Murphy Family – Ruby, John, Amber, Hollie, Paula and Ruth. Above centre: Linda, Aoibhe Larkin and Sean Redmond. Above right: Rachel, Roiseen and Jason O’Gorman. Left: Niall, Helen, Des, Cathal and Eoin Kennedy. Right: Bee and Jane O’Toole. Below left: Cian Jordan, Eoin Kennedy, Jack Jordan, Isaac Kearney and Billy O’Connor. Below right: Helen, Kate and David Breen.

DAVIDSTOWN CONFIRMATION

Davidstown N.S. Confirmation in Davidstown parish church, Thursday 30th July. Above left: Sharon, Ruby and Jim Kehoe. Above centre: Lis O’Leary, Michaela and Conor Quigley. Above right: Eddie, Ellie and Jacinta Mulligan.

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Graduating at Carraig Briste & Killegney

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Technological University for the South East Following Minister Simon Harris’ recent announcement of the appointment of Tom Boland to accelerate plans for the Technological University in the South East, Paul Kehoe TD has provided the following brief update: “Both IT Carlow and Waterford IT remain fully committed to the development of higher education facilities in Wexford and that the process to secure a location for a higher education campus in Wexford, which is being led by IT Carlow, is ongoing. “Minister Harris’s Department has agreed in principle to provide funding for acquisition of a site for the new campus. “This is yet another step forward in this process, which has accelerated rapidly in recent weeks. A technological university in Wexford will not just bring jobs and investment into the area, but will provide our children the opportunity to remain in Wexford to study and learn and, hopefully, to find improved employment opportunities in the region.” n

National Heritage Week 15-23 Aug 2020 CARRAIG BRISTE (DAVIDSTOWN) EARLY YEARS GRADUATION ON 27TH JULY 2020. Back Row: Zoe Sinnott Banville (educator), Orlagh Doyle (owner/manager), Clare Foxton (educator). Children’s names in no particular order: Jack Jacob, Ellie Mai Delaney, Oisin Lacey, Hannah McFadden, Grace Roban, Daniel Doyle, Niall Hemmingway, Leo Cosgrave, Ell Mai O'Doherty, Croi Rogers, Evan Kearns, Saoirse Fardy.

Due to COVID-19-related restrictions on social gatherings, this year, rather than inviting communities to host Heritage Week events, the Heritage Council is inviting communities around the country to undertake projects that explore a topic associated with this year’s theme – ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our Heritage’. The new approach is designed to promote the sharing of experience and knowledge. Projects can comprise researching an aspect of heritage on your doorstep, sharing or re-learning a heritage skill, or exploring an aspect of Ireland’s educational heritage. For National Heritage Week, Enniscorthy Castle is challenging everybody to show their heritage. Each week it has been setting a different theme and asking people to send in pictures and videos showing their heritage through each theme. Whether it’s an old family photo, a picture of a handmade creation or even a video of the person singing and dancing, the Castle wants to see it! A winner from each week will be picked and their entry will be displayed in Enniscorthy Castle for the duration of National Heritage Week (15-23 August). See “Enniscorthy Castle” on Facebook for more details. n

VISIT WEXFORD!

KILLEGNEY (CLONROCHE) EARLY YEARS GRADUATION CLASS ON 20TH JULY 2020. Back row L-R: Chantel Johnson (manager), Andrew O'Donoghue (early years educator), Orlagh Doyle (owner/manager), Joan Doran (ECCE educator). Children’s names in no particular order: Aoibhin Delaney, Hannah Dooly, Daisy O'Connor, Zara Mustafa, Lucy O'Leary, Clara Murphy, Oliver Winters, Saedbh Nolan, Finn McKiernan, Patrick Abeling, Charlie Furlong and Cian Murray.

Visit Wexford is an online guide showcasing all that our county has to offer. It is divided into LIVE, VISIT and INVEST, and is an ideal resource for those curious about all things Wexford. Check out: www.wexford.ie

Slaney Entertainment & Leisure

3 August 2020

www.slaneynews.com

SPIEGELTENT FESTIVAL October 9-26th 2020 Cursed Murphy’s new release We x f o r d ’s f a m o u s Spiegeltent Festival is planning to return this October. Chief organiser, Brian Byrne of Lantern Presents, has ordered a bigger tent this year, the Spiegeltent Fortuna, which will help allow all seated gigs operate within the social distancing guidelines and recommendations for the safety of all. The Festival, which will un from October 926th 2020, is proud to announce the return of 80s legends Smokie to the 2020 lineup of comedy, music, burlesque and more. Smokie will be playing on Friday October 16th and this is bound to be another fast sell-out show, after three previous sell-out performances in 2017, 2018 and 2019! n

Confirmed shows for 2020 include Jack L, Hudson Taylor, Neil Delamere, and Smokie with lots more shows to be announced over the coming weeks. TICKETS ON SALE NOW from www.wexfordspiegeltent.com n

WLOS pays tribute to Des Whelan RIP

A proud moment for Enniscorthy’s Peter Murphy on 24th July with the release of the debut album – Cursed Murphy Versus the Resistance, featuring photography by Dan Comerford and cover design by Rebecca Gangnus. The album has received great attention nationally with glowing reviews in both print and broadcast media. On RTE radio, Peter has been on the arts show, Arena, talking about the album and playing some tracks. Also on RTE, the track The Bells of Hell has been played by Fiachna Ó Braonáin sitting in for John Creedon on RTE Radio 1. Renowned reviewer Alan Corr has given what Murphy describes as “the most in-depth and intensive review of our album so far”. Corr says, “...Murphy sounds like Burroughs one minute and a slightly more pissed off Matt Johnson the next. It’s like being

trapped in a warehouse with The Mercy Seat by Nick Cave playing very loud on a loop as Death in Vegas man the decks. Murphy is caught in a fire-zone between rage and vulnerability, but he ends with a defiant poem of uplift in the moving We Are Dead Stars, a parting bolt of passion and conviction that puts it simply – give out but don't give up." Mark Kavanagh has given the album a brilliant write-up in the Daily Star. It received a 4-star review in the Irish Times. Hot Press magazine was full of praise also. And local journalist and musician Brendan Keane, writing in the Enniscorthy Guardian, was bowled over by the album. You can get a download or a limited edition CD copy of the album here: https://cursedmurphyversustheresistance.ban dcamp.com. Or if you're in Wexford town, pick up a physical copy at Golden Discs. n

Leisure on the Slaney

Des Whelan, centre.

Wexford Light Opera Society would like to offer our heartfelt and deepest sympathies to Denise, Emma, Stuart, Des Jr and extended family on the sudden passing of WLOS stalwart, life member and Friend Des Whelan. Des, who first performed with the society in 1977 playing the role of Narrator in Joseph, has appeared in 29 stage musicals with WLOS with the role of Isador Straus in Titanic to be his 30th musical which was unfortunately postponed earlier this year. Des has been instrumental to the success of the Wexford Light Opera both on and off the

stage having served as committee member, chairperson and AIMS delegate representing WLOS. Des also served on the Centenary Committee back in 2011 as the society celebrated 100 years. On stage he has received no less than 14 various nominations from AIMS (going back as far as AIMS records online but no doubt there are many more than this), the most recent in 2014 as Best Comedian for the role of Monsignor O’Hara in Sister Act where he played alongside his long-time friend and co-star Siobhan Fawsitt. His most memorable roles were in 1992 where he played

Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof and in 1999 in the role of Don Quixote in Man of La Mancha and was awarded AIMS best overall performer for both these roles alongside various others. He will be remembered for his caring words of wisdom, his ability to seek out new talent and nurture them, being a mentor to many members of WLOS and always willing to lend a hand and support WLOS in any way he can and he leaves behind an incredible on-stage legacy for us all to cherish. Des will be fondly remembered by people who shared

the stage with him, not only for his sheer talent, his storytelling musical genius, but also for his magical ability to make anything that might have gone wrong on stage anyone’s fault but his to the audience. Audiences far and near loved hearing his name called out in Hits From The Musicals to get yet another chance to hear that velvet chocolate voice and see the legend Des Whelan perform once more. We are beyond devastated that another one of our dear friends and member has been taken too soon. May Des Rest in Peace. – Eric Hayes, Chairman

KAYAK RENTALS now available at Edermine Bridge, Enniscorthy. Booking essential. Email: info@gopaddle.ie for more details. And check out the “GoPaddle.ie” Facebook page.

TO ADVERTISE ON THE SLANEY NEWS ENTERTAINMENT PAGES PLEASE CALL 087-2403310

Slaney Entertainment & Leisure

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Keeping the music alive! CLASSES ARE RUNNING THIS MONTH FOR VENUES, DATES, ETC:

085 708 9128

For the best in local musical talent, check out Hoolie’s Lockdown Lock-In. There have been 6 episodes so far with the most recent being on 1st August. Each episode is broadcast live on Facebook on the ‘Holohans Pub’ page. Holohans put out a new episode every couple of weeks so keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates. New acts are always welcome, so if you'd like more details on how to get involved, please email: holohanslockdownlockin@gmail.com and check out ‘Holohans Pub’ on Facebook.

JAMIE ON THE MOVIES... A great new vlog (video blog) by top Enniscorthy movie buff, Jamie Murphy, is now available on his own YouTube channel ‘One Take Thoughts’. Check it out for his ‘Top 5 Stephen King Adaptations’, ‘Top 5 Horror Films’, ‘Top 5 Worst Bond Films’, ‘Antrum (deadliest film ever made)’ and lots more to come. n

The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, now open! The gallery at The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, is now open, and the theatre at the centre can now be booked again. To find out about dates and rates just email: presentationcentreenniscorthy@gmail.com

Enjoying some summer fun around the region

Above: At the Currid School of Performing Arts summer camp in Courtown, Elliot Currid and mum Roisin. Far left: Donnacha Reilly at the playground in Ballindaggin. Left: At the playground in Ballindaggin: Cliona, Clodagh and dad Joe Reilly.

Slaney Entertainment & Leisure

with Maria Nolan

3 August 2020

Street Theatre Comes To Market Square

‘UNDER A SKELLIG SKY’ – A REVIEW. Recently, I received a copy of Breda Joy’s latest novel Under A Skellig Sky in the post. Breda, a native of Killarney and journalist with Kerry’s Eye and previously with The Kerryman, is the author of three nonfiction works – Brian Crowley: Against the Odds; Hidden Kerry, The Keys to the Kingdom; and The Wit & Wisdom of Kerry, and has now turned her hand to fiction with her first novel Eat the Moon published in 2018 and her lastest Under A Skellig Sky just released. This busy lady is also a regular contributor to Radio Kerry and features on RTE radio and television occasionally. She has been shortlisted for the Francis MacManus Short Story Competition (2011); longlisted for the RTE Guide Penguin Ireland Short Story (2012); a winner in the inaugural Trócaire/Poetry Ireland Award (2012), and a winner in the Kerry County Council One Act Play Competition (2005). Breda, although very much a Kerrywoman, is proud of her Wexford connections through her late grandmother Mary O’Shaughnessy (nee White) originally from a farm called Maxboley in Ballymitty. “A deep, thoughtful woman, my grandmother was an avid reader with shelves full of books by Walter Macken, Frederick Forsyth and others as well as the Readers’ Digest,” Breda told me. “She took out a subscription to the political magazine, Magill, when it was founded. “Her love of reading influenced me as a writer both directly and through my mother, Mairead, who inherited that love. The Cork farm that she went to live on when she married my grandfather, Michael O’Shaughnessy, inspired the setting of my first novel, Eat the Moon. “All my grandmother’s sisters and brothers were still alive when I visited Wexford with my aunt, Lily, as a child,” Breda said. “I remember going to the beach at Cullenstown and the pier at Kilmore Quay.” “One particular set of Wexford memories fed into my new novel, Under a Skellig Sky, which is set in South Kerry but draws on the experience of Irish women who ran farm guesthouses and B&Bs.” Breda remembered, “My grandmother’s sister and brother-in-law, Bridie and Wallie Furlong, had a farm guesthouse at their home at Rath, Duncormick.” “Rath was the first farm guesthouse I ever came across, and it impressed me as a place of of ease, relaxation and beautiful surroundings,” she said. “I suppose you could describe Rath as an Irish rural experience of ‘La Dolce Vita’. I remember, in particular, the atmosphere in the sitting-room when the guests sat chatting in the evenings and the beauty of the garden outside.”

‘Howie the Rookie’ starring Enniscorthy’s gifted actor Fintan Kelly.

In the aftermath of lockdown, Enniscorthy Drama Group (EDG) have hit the ground running and in conjunction with Enniscorthy Municipal District Council will host a performance of Mark O’Rowe’s powerful play Howie the Rookie at Market Square, Enniscorthy, on the weekend of 14th/15th August. This is a first for EDG and we very much appreciate the opportunity to bring the marvellous talents of our actors out on to the streets of Enniscorthy and into the heart of the community. Howie the Rookie, starring EDG’s very gifted actor Fintan Kelly, tells the story through two monologues of the nightmare underworld of 1990s Dublin with pub brawls, drunken dolly birds and Hiace vans, with Fintan taking on the ultimate challenge of playing both characters and doing so extremely well. Fintan has toured

Ireland with the play to great acclaim and excellent reviews so don’t miss it. Please do come out on the weekend of 14th/15th August for a unique experience at Market Square. There will be no admission charge but all donations at the event will go to Slaney Search and Rescue in memory of Bernard Buddy Kirwan. Over the coming months EDG intend to bring to their Enniscorthy audience not one but two very popular plays –

David Ireland’s Cypress Avenue and Martin McDonagh’s The Pillowman. Both will be staged at The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, and at Wexford Arts Centre. The Cast of Cypress Avenue – Andy Doyle, Fintan Kelly, Julie Fox and Norma Flood are already in rehearsals for this dark comedy that tells the tale of Eric Miller, a Belfast loyalist agonising over his identity. ‘The last thing I am is

Irish Folk & Ballad Festival cancelled

“My grandmother, Mary, trained in cookery at Ramsgrange which was like Ballymaloe in its day and was excellent at baking and icing cakes. She used to make a christening cake in the shape of a cradle complete with a quilt of latticework icing and a lace hood. “After she left Ramsgrange, she went to work in Dublin where she met my grandfather, Michael, a Corkman.” The Wexford link remains strong. Under a Skellig Sky is a beautiful read, full of delightfully descriptive passages exalting the splendour of the Kingdom of Kerry and paying tribute to the ‘B&B and Farmhouse Women’ who have been the backbone of tourism in this country long before tourism became an industry and the mainstay of our economy.

The Enniscorthy Irish Folk and Ballad Festival, scheduled for 27-30th August, has been cancelled. See ‘Irish Folk and Ballad Festival’ on Facebook for any updates. Hopefully the festival will be back in Enniscorthy in 2021 with another fantastic line-up of acts. n

This novel tells the story of the fiercely hardworking and competitive businesswomen and mothers who have been fending for their families, selling Ireland to the world for generations and making significant contributions to their local economies. Breda Joy understands these women, they are the women at the heart of her Kerry childhood and she brings them to life magnificently in this novel which tells the story of Carol O’Connell who returns to Kerry to lick her wounds in the aftermath of a broken relationship and decides to experiment with the latest trend, Airbnb, in her mother’s old farmhouse overlooking the Skellig Islands. Carol quickly discovers that all is not as laid back and relaxed as she remembered it with the Wild Atlantic Way and Star Wars adding a different pace to her once ‘sleepy valley’. Breda herself has likened this novel to a Kerry Fawlty Towers but with its colourful characters, life’s many twists and turns and rich Irishisms this book is a treasure beyond comedy that I feel is part of the social history of Kerry and the Irish tourism industry. The book is a lovely read, showcasing the Skelligs and the wonderful women behind Ireland’s accommodation sector and it oozes with Breda Joy’s passion for, and love of, her native heath. – Maria Nolan

Irish’, he insists, as he struggles with sectarian hatred and all the complexities of Northern Ireland’s chequered past. Cypress Avenue, directed by Paul Walsh, is scheduled for 9th–12th September inclusive at Wexford Arts Centre and 16th–19th September inclusive at The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, and EDG are delighted to have stalwarts of Enniscorthy drama – Andy Doyle and Norma Flood, back on the boards again. Martin McDonagh is a favourite of Enniscorthy Drama Group, having previously staged The Beauty Queen of Leenane and The Cripple of Inishmaan and before Christmas the group intend to bring his acclaimed ‘hymn to word power’, The Pillowman, to an Enniscorthy stage, so watch this space for details of casting, rehearsals and performances. – Maria Nolan, P.R.O. Enniscorthy Drama Group

LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS… Check with local venues about any upcoming cancellations or postponements.

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Slaney Entertainment & Leisure

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Darling Sins Wexford Arts Centre | Tue 4th – Fri 7th August Little Medical School Summer Camp | 10am – 1pm Learn how the body works using interactive demonstrations, crafts, and games. More info call Peter 087-4491209. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Wexford Arts Centre | Friday 7th August Billy Roche Live | 7pm Billy Roche returns with his renowned Red Guitar Tour; he will be joined on stage by his comrades-in-arms Mike Odlum and Pete McCamley to perform his album Dead Man’s Shoes in its entirety. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Wexford Arts Centre | Saturday 8th August Kevin Lawlor APK Trio | 7pm The contemporary trio fuse the music and style of Jazz, funk, and improvised music with modern day pop music as well as traditional jazz. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Wexford Arts Centre | Saturday 15th August The Rob Strong Band Live | 8:30pm Derry native Rob Strong is celebrating an amazing 55 years on the road with his sensational blues/soul voice. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Wexford Arts Centre | Saturday 22nd August Pierce Turner Live | 8:30pm Wexford Arts Centre is delighted to welcome back the dynamic live performer Pierce Turner for this intimate summer show. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Please note that these events will take place under current social distancing measurements as per Government guidelines.

On a recent day out in Wells House and Gardens, Gorey, were Padraig, Millie and Michelle Dalton.

For updates: See Facebook. Email: boxoffice@wexfordartscentre.ie www.wexfordartscentre.ie

24TH OCTOBER AT 8PM IN THE NATIONAL OPERA HOUSE, WEXFORD. Starring Naoimh Penston, JamesMcDermott, Tony Carty, Amy Penston, Leah Penston and the wonderful Eithne Corrigan on piano.

The Darling Sins were formed when Co. Wexford natives Leni Morrison and Joe Harpur met by chance at a gig in Dublin and decided to meet again for a jam. The results were so good they formed a duo and have just put some of their amazing tunes on Facebook and YouTube for all to enjoy. Leni Morrison has been

described as: “A Wexford chanteuse blessed with an extraordinary blue-eyed soul voice, and knack for penning a killer sultry tune." Jackie Hayden, well known music critic and author says, "Leni Morrison is a real talent.” Check out ‘Darling Sins’ on Facebook and follow the video links there. n

The umbrellas on Slaney Street are usually associated with the town’s Rockin’ Food Festival. Alas, that festival is not happening this year, but the umbrellas are up to bring some colour and joy to the town this summer. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Slaney Education

3 August 2020

Bursary Application Now Open

New Ross Credit Union Ltd’s bursary fund is open to students living, working or attending school in our common bond. Students must be starting 1st year of minimum 2 year course. Application forms can be downloaded from our website or collected in any 3 of our offices.

CLOSING DATE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATION 17th October 2020 CLOSING

New Ross Credit Union Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. New Ross Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Terms & conditions apply.

Mary Hickey

What do want to be when you grow up?

What do you want to be when you grow up? This question is often posed to children during primary school. Responses to this question often include: a fireman, a camogie star, a farmer etc. A recent family outing reminded me of this. The story goes... three young boys in 6th class were asked by the school principal: What do you want to be when you grow up? Dermot answered I want to work in a forest cutting trees. Anthony answered I want to be an astronaut. Matt answered I want to be a professional soccer player. With the naivety and innocence of a child, these young boys dared to dream. I wonder how many people now in their working life can say that they are doing the work that they dreamed of doing when they were asked this question in primary school. The intervening years bring many changes.

Erikson’s (1963) stages of psychosocial development suggest that during the transition from child to teenager to adult questions arise including; who I am, what is my future role in life, and where am I going? In this time the young person will explore many roles and engage in many activities so that they can find themselves. Answering these questions assists the young person in forming a positive view of themselves, others and the world and according to Erikson allows that young person to form a sense of identity rather than settling into what he referred to as role confusion. It is a huge developmental milestone for the teenager when they feel this sense of positive identity. This sense of identity incorporates many areas including religious/cultural beliefs, sexual orientation, relationships, and career identity (O’ Brien 2011). As a career consultant, I work with many students from the age of fourteen to twenty years. I see first-hand the sense of relief,

pride, belief and awareness that the young person experiences once they establish that there are so many careers available to them and that they have so many options regarding future choices. Further to this I have witnessed the awakening or, if you like, the forming of an identity that the young person experiences once they have established a career goal and how they can achieve this goal. In a nutshell, career guidance is not all about getting the student to go college to do a course. It is about helping that person to find themselves and to help them establish their identity and their unique role. For many, their career is born with them but they may need seeds sown for it to develop into a realistic idea, others may need careful excavation and cultivating to establish their career goal. Regardless of the journey, results are achievable leading to a positive sense of self, others and world, therefore a positive sense of identity. – Mary Hickey

Focus on Education The Roadmap for the full return to school was published on 27 July 2020 by the Minister for Education and Skills, Norma Foley. The Roadmap set outs how schools will reopen for all students from the end of August and what the operation of our schools will look like and be sustainable in a COVID-19 context. It has been developed in line with public health advice issued by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), the Roadmap for Society and Business, and follows comprehensive and intensive engagement with education stakeholders including the school management bodies and staff representatives. It also reflects a consideration of approaches adopted in other jurisdictions, which have been finalised in recent weeks. What will schools be like when they reopen? The Roadmap says schools will reopen for all students from the end of August. The following information is taken directly from the Roadmap... “While everyone wants schools to operate as normally as possible from August this year, it is recognised by all that it will be a different environment to how schools operated in March of this year. “Physical distancing, much less interaction between classes and class groups, staggered breaks and lunch times and a lot of flexibility within schools to max-

imise school spaces (including the use of PE Halls and GP Rooms as classrooms) will be a feature. “Recognising that there will a broad range of responses when the school community go back to school, ranging from children and their parents being happy and relieved to get back to school to some children being fearful and nervous, there will be specific emphasis on the well-being of the school community and our students and pupils as schools navigate through the reopening process. Specific supports will be also be available for those children who struggle to come back to school, vulnerable groups and those children who may experience loss, grief and bereavement during the period of school closure. “A significant cultural shift in the behaviours of students, their families and staff is expected with each playing their roles in keeping the virus out of their school by ensuring • those who have symptoms or suspect they have the virus stay out of school, • by maintaining best practice in terms of hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette in school, and • as well as by minimising social contacts and respecting physical distancing practices. “As part of the school re-opening process, extensive communication by the school with the school community on the specific arrange-

ments that will apply in the school is expected to support their cultural shift. “Reopening our schools is not just a matter of achieving a certain minimum physical distancing. It is also about getting students re-engaged fully with learning, socialising with their peers, and for some preparing for examinations, for others transitioning to school life or a different level in terms of moving from primary to post-primary. Students will need the support of their families, teachers and school staff in readjusting to school life and physical learning environments again. “School communities will rise to this challenge, and the key themes of the Public Health Advice necessary to keep us all safe will permeate throughout the school community, with everyone: • Applying common sense, adopting a balanced approach, • Doing everything practical to avoid the introduction of COVID-19 into the school. Being Aware of • what we can all do to protect ourselves and each other, • how to recognise and report the symptoms of COVID-19, • the need to stay at home if we feel unwell. And continuing to observe physical distancing, good hand hygiene and good respiratory etiquette.” The full 53-page roadmap can be viewed and downloaded at www.gov.ie

Mary Hickey Career Consultant

Mary Hickey

in association with

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Slaney Education

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Slaney Education

3 August 2020

Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) Courses for 2020/21 at Enniscorthy Vocational College (EVC) Enniscorthy Vocational College is again providing a wide range of courses to ensure that the needs of prospective learners are catered for. Typically, these courses attract students that have just completed their Leaving Certificate and may want another year to mature or to gain additional knowledge before embarking on further studies in Higher Education. These courses also cater for those who may have been recently made unemployed and may now be considering their next career move. The courses provide the learner with the ideal opportunity to upskill and lead to nationally recognised qualifications at Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) Level 5 and 6, City and Guilds and Beauty Therapy qualifications CIDESCO, ITEC and CIBTAC. All courses have work placement allowing learners the chance of putting theory into practice. This year there are four new courses being offered which include: Pre-Apprenticeship,

L e g a l S e c r e t a r y, Medical Secretary and General Studies. One of the unique selling points is the quality of the teaching and ancillary staff, which provide excellent teaching, practical instruction, and pastoral support. This assists greatly in developing the capacities, skills, and competencies that learners require to achieve their potential both professionally and personally. Over the past decade, EVC has sent sixteen students every year to Vasteras in Sweden on work placement through the Erasmus+ programme. This allows students to immerse themselves in the culture and tradition of a foreign country and gain invaluable experience in a workplace related to their area of study. The plan for 2021 is to further enhance this programme by providing additional work placements in Germany and Spain. A

major positive with this exchange is that it is totally funded by the European Union and reduces any barriers learners might have because of financial constraints. There are numerous advantages in doing a Post Leaving Certificate course at EVC:

★

You get a better understanding of your course of interest prior to heading on to Higher Education. The smaller class sizes compared to Third Level ensure that support is more readily available from Course Directors. Research has shown that learners who complete a PLC course are better equipped to deal with all aspects of College life and less likely to fail particularly

in the first year.

★

In the current climate of uncertainty, a PLC course may provide you with a worthwhile solution for the upcoming year. On successful completion of courses there are excellent progression opportunities to Higher Education, and you increase your chances of securing a job if you so wish. Excellent work placement opportunities so learners get a good understanding of possible career options.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, face to face interview will not be taking place this year and contact with prospective learners will be remotely. If you are interested in applying for a course or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact EVC on 053 9236969 or email: furthereducation@wwetb.ie. Information on all courses including modules that are covered along with costs can be viewed on www.evcfurthereducation.ie.

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Slaney Education

Slaney News

3 August 2020

Sinn Féin pushing for University for South East

Sinn Féin representatives have described as 'positive and progressive' a meeting which took place with representatives from IT Carlow at the college last month. The purpose of this meeting, which was requested by Co. Wexford Cllrs Tom Forde and Fionntán Ó Súilleabhain and also attended by TD Johnny Mythen, Dr. Patricia Mulcahy (ITC President) and John Moore (Chairperson), was to further progress, and troubleshoot, the provision of the much sought after university in the South East. A number of sites have

been proposed over the years, with a site on Newtown Rd coming close to fruition, but to date no suitable site has been found, nor any construction undertaken. Cllr. Forde said: 'The aim of this meeting was to offer any support that we in Sinn Féin can provide in order to get this university into a physical reality. This campus has been in the research and planning stages for years, but to date hasn't progressed the way that either side would be happy with, with a number of key sites being researched but later

found unsuitable for various reasons. However, I was also very alarmed to learn in the meeting that it appears some of the local representatives who have been the most critical and vocal about the delays of this project had themselves failed to engage directly with the college to try and fix any of these issues, rather than simply highlighting them to the public. The reps from IT Carlow made it clear that this commentary from public representatives has been very unhelpful on such an important and complex project. It appears that an earlier meet-

Enniscorthy’s Walking App Free Outdoor Tour

Enniscorthy Municipal District, with support from Wexford Walking Trails and Visit Wexford, has organised some great new Phone App walking tours using Goreybased company, Wilder Wander. The App is widely available – search for Wilder Wander and then find the Enniscorthy/River Slaney walking tour option. Guides for walks on Oulart Hill, Ferns, Curracloe, and other locations in Co. Wexford are also available there. For more information, check out: www.wilderwander.com n

Enniscorthy/River Slaney Tour

ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY

1. Download the WILDER WANDER App for free from Apple iOS or Google Play Stores 2. Click FIND/CATEGORIES/TOURS 3. Open Enniscorthy 4. Tour starts beyond Riverside Park Hotel 5. More informa�on - wilderwander.com

Supported and Developed by

For information on all Enniscorthy Library events see “Enniscorthy Library” on Facebook or contact the library on 053-9236055.

ing invitation that had been sent to the ITC board had not arrived with them until the day after the suggested meeting should have taken place, but nonetheless they received criticism from some reps for not attending a meeting that they didn't even know about. I have written to Co. Chairman Ger Carthy to ask that these reps from ITC be invited to the next available meeting of Wexford Co. Council, in order to further progress the project.' Cllr Ó Súilleabháin said: ‘Concerns were also raised by IT Carlow about the commercial sensitivity regarding the discussion of sites in and around the Wexford area, as this type of information when leaked to the public can escalate site prices beyond the budget of the college. For example, at the time of discussion around the Newtown Road site, word got into the media that the funding received by the college was around €10 million, when in fact it was closer to €2 million. This led to an escalation in the price of the site and ITC could not justify the additional spending of public money. We were glad to learn that IT Carlow are actively investigating a site in Wexford in the coming weeks and we hope that this site will be suitable for the new campus. If not, it will be up to all public representatives and the colleges to work together to suggest alternative locations. It is clear that ITC are committed to the provision of education in the south east and to date have spent over €6

million on the campus at St. Peter's College, which they feel is no longer fit for purpose. We must assist this process in order to secure a full modern campus in Wexford which in turn may lead to a full university of the South East, should Carlow and Waterford be granted university status in the future'. Johnny Mythen TD said: 'There are numerous and complex issues in the provision of this campus and the teams from the colleges should be commended for their work to date. It is clear that Wexford is their top choice for this project. In turn we also made it clear that we will work with them in any way we can to help further this project. It is not as simple as finding a site and building an empty building. This modern Wexford campus must be accessible by public transport, have adequate and affordable accommodation in the area, as well as having suitable curricula and staff numbers. This campus will be vital for the future growth of the South East, it will attract local investment, provide jobs and relieve the financial strain of many families who are faced with unaffordable student accommodation in bigger cities and towns. I would call for cross-party support on this project, all public reps need to work together, and actively seek solutions to these obstacles. We need to get it built and we need to get it staffed and fully functioning so that the County can begin to reap the benefits.' n

REPRIEVE FOR ENNISCORTHY GREYHOUND TRACK A recent report from the Irish Greyhound Board (IGB) suggests that two of the tracks deemed surplus to requirements by the Indecon Report published in December 2019 into the future of Irish greyhound racing, may have a reprieve. Under the original IGB sponsored plan, it was suggested that both Enniscorthy and Youghal had no viable futures. Two of the other tracks mentioned, Longford and Lifford, have already closed. It now appears though that the IGB is keeping its options open as regards Enniscorthy and Youghal by providing an opportunity to Enniscorthy and Youghal for a fixed period of time to address challenges/ issues identified and for key performance measures to be set. Contact has been made with Enniscorthy and Youghal tracks and the matter will be further considered by the Irish Greyhound Board.

Housing in Co. Wexford We x f o r d S i n n F é i n T D Johnny Mythen has raised the issue of the ever-increasing cost of renting and buying accommodation in County Wexford. Speaking after a Sinn Féin motion on Affordable Housing was presented in the Dáil on 7th July, Deputy Mythen said, “This evening I raised the increasing cost of rent in County Wexford over the last year, as well as the rise in house prices in some areas of the county. Housing affordability is sometimes seen as a ‘Dublin’ problem – this is not true. “In Wexford, and especially in north Wexford, in places like Gorey, Courtown and Riverchapel, we can see these areas becoming a destination for families priced out of the capital and its hinterland and as this demand rises, market values in these areas, and around the county, will continue to rise also. Homes are beginning to become unattainable, and unaffordable, for first-time buyers, low wage earners and

the average hard-working family. “I clearly outlined to the government the need for them to get a handle on this urgent situation now, before prices and rents get worse. Only a largescale public house building programme on public land by Local Authorities, Approved Housing Bodies and Community Housing Trusts can deliver genuinely affordable homes and that is what Sinn Féin is proposing, for Wexford and for the country.” Meanwhile, almost €1 million has been announced for Wexford County Council to refurbish empty council houses. James Browne TD has welcomed this allocation. Deputy Browne says, “As part of the July Stimulus, Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien secured an extra €40 million in funding for the refurbishment of social housing stock. The Minister has allocated €999,110 of this money to County Wexford. “This funding will be

used to target social housing units across the county so that they can be re-let to individuals and families struggling with homelessness or on the social housing list.” “Renovation of ‘void properties’ – social homes that are vacant and require refurbishment before they can be re-let to tenants is very important in tackling the housing waiting list. Empty council houses cause real frustration among the public and especially those on the housing list. This money will allow those houses to come back into use.” “I am asking that Wexford County Council takes immediate steps to ensure that work on refurbishing vacant homes begins straight away. “The funding will make extra social housing stock available quickly and will have a knock-on economic benefit by generating further employment for local builders, carpenters, painters, plumbers and electricians and other trades,” concluded Deputy Browne. n

Slaney News

www.slaneynews.com This photo: A most impressive round tower monument guarded by four Irish wolfhounds now stands where Liam Lynch fell. Right: Tom Boland and Dominic Pearse. Below right: Tom Boland (EHRS), John Hassett (Liam Lynch Commemoration Committee), Maria Nolan (EHRS).

Liam Lynch Annual Commemoration On Sunday, July 26, people from all political persuasions, along with members of the Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society gathered on the exquisite slopes of the Knockmealdowns in Co. Tipperary for the annual commemoration of the death of General Liam Lynch. A most impressive round tower monument, guarded by four Irish Wolfhounds, now stands where Liam Lynch fell, shot by National Army troops in the dying days of a Civil War he had worked tirelessly to avoid. The oration given by local historian Tom Toomey recalled Liam Lynch’s dedication to the Irish Republic declared in 1916 which he had sworn to uphold and his dismay with the 1921 Treaty which failed to deliver that Republic that he and his comrades fought for. Despite his trojan efforts to avoid a brutal Civil War, he played his part in the guerrilla warfare of the AntiTreaty Republicans and was shot and fatally wounded

in the Knockmealdown Mountains trying to flee from a Free State Army column under the command of Lieutenant Larry Clancy, who thought they had shot de Valera as Liam bore a strong resemblance to him. The commemoration was well organised and orchestrated with the dignity and respect due to a man who gave his life for the cause of Irish freedom. – Maria Nolan

W.C.C. – Providing support to older citizens Wexford County Council is actively supporting a number of initiatives designed to assist older citizens living in our county, particularly throughout the Covid 19 public health emergency. The Council has recently partnered with Wexford Home Instead Senior Care and a generous local benefactor who has sponsored 50 GrandPad Tablets for cocooning older people in the county. Technology can play an important role in reducing loneliness and isolation, enabling older adults to stay connected with loved ones and their caregivers, allowing them to live independently at home while following guidelines for avoiding exposure to the virus. With built-in 4G connectivity, the GrandPad tablet comes complete with apps designed for older adults. The large, clearly labelled icons mean that video and voice calls, photos, email, music, games, news, weather and search functionality are easily accessed from the screen. The system also has an “auto answer” feature that can be enabled to allow calls from approved family members to automatically ring through, making the system more user friendly to answer calls, texts or emails.

The two-way video functionality has proven invaluable for users during Covid 19. The recipients of this initiative are delighted (“I just love it”, “It has changed my life”) with their GrandPads. The Wexford Community Call Helpline has been a very successful initiative during the public health emergency. The service is available seven days per week between the hours of 9.00am and 5.00pm, with County Council volunteers working alongside local voluntary groups to provide a vital link between older citi-

zens and the services they need including deliveries of grocery shopping and pharmacy items, or maybe just a friendly ear for the person living in isolation. Wexford County Council Library Service set up the Book Call delivery service so that people who are unable to physically visit a library, can still enjoy their favourite books while they are spending more time at home. The service has been very well received to date, with over 421 deliveries of over 2,318 library books, audiobooks or DVDs to customers.

Sports Active Wexford, which is operated through Wexford County Council, has put together a number of audio and visual aids for older adults who wish to stay fit while staying at home. A number of podcasts and videos have been created, demonstrating exercises aimed at varying fitness levels – from the very active to those who wish to keep moving at a gentler pace. They are linking in with bodies including the GAA to showcase a wide range of activities to participate in safely from home. The Couch to 3K Campaign was

quickly oversubscribed, with over 150 people registering on the first day. Advertisements and podcasts have also been placed in the local press on the radio to inform our wider community of the resources available to keep fit and healthy during Covid 19. WCC is actively encouraging relatives and neighbours of older citizens to keep in touch with them to help them utilise online resources, where they may need a little additional assistance. Wellbeing resources have

become increasingly important during the current pandemic. WCC is mindful that older people cocooning may need access to information on wellbeing supports. The recently appointed Healthy County Coordinator working in collaboration with the Health County Committee has been actively highlighting resources available at national and local level. The Community Resilience Forum group meets regularly to ensure no-one is left out of the current strategies to help Wexford and its citizens recover from the impact of COVID 19. Wexford County Council continues to provide access to government and local links catering for personal wellbeing. This is done through the WCC website, on its social media links, through regular radio interviews and newspaper advertising. A spokesperson for Wexford County Council says, “We are here to support our older citizens during these difficult times, on the phone, online and out in the community. The Community Call phone number and our Customer Service Desk can be reached by dialling 053-9196000. Because We’re All In This Together.” n

Slaney Food & Drink

3 August 2020

Niamh’s banana muffins are a winner

Niamh Goodison

niamh Goodison, a 20-yearold third-level student from Wexford town, is one of Ireland’s best banana bread bakers having been chosen winner of the ‘Best Vegan’ category award in a recent nationwide competition to find Ireland’s Best Banana Bread Recipes conducted by celebrity chef and RTE presenter, Donal Skehan, with the support of banana distributors, Fyffes. The eldest of four, Niamh was a keen student of home economics at both Junior and Leaving Certificate levels and is currently studying at DCU Institute of Education, where she has her eyes firmly set on

the goal of becoming a primary school teacher. An avid baker from a young age, Niamh draws her inspiration from her mother, Emma, and admits that home baking was ‘one of the activities enjoyed the most as a family’ during lockdown with Salted Caramel Banana Muffins – her winning entry – being one of her favourites. Noting that ‘one of its unique aspects is that the ingredients are entirely suitable for vegans and those keen to pursue a vegan diet,’ Niamh said: ‘It is a recipe that is simple and not too complicated to make with ingredients that most households will have to hand. It has a delicious combination of flavours with a fabulous texture to match and yet you’d never know that they were vegan.’ The overall Best Banana Bread recipe award was won by Gillian Carney from Cobh, who also topped the category for Best Ingredients. Other category winners were: Cáit Flood from Swords (Best Junior Baker under 10 years); Isabelle Sexton from Roscommon Town (Best Junior Baker 10 years and over); Ciara Kilmartin from

Ferbane, Offaly (Best Styling) and Heather O’Sullivan from Bantry (Best Gluten-Free). Reflecting on what he called ‘the volume and quality’ of entries received, Donal Skehan said: “Ireland has some exceed-

ingly creative and talented home bakers. It was refreshing to see such imaginative ideas, ingredients and methods being shared, particularly amongst junior and dietaryrestricted entrants.” n

SuperValu launches new reusable bags

The Wilds – supporting local food producers A new way to shop for produce from local farmers and artisan producers.... https://www.neighbourfood.ie/markets LOG OnTO THE WEBSITE nOW AnD START SHOPPInG!

‘Taste Wexford’ tasty hampers

I n J u l y, T h e Wi l d s , Enniscorthy, received its Eat Wexford plaque as an Official Supporter of the Wexford Food Family. The plaque was presented to proprietor, Simon Nelson, in recognition of The Wilds supporting local food producers such as: Ballycross Apple Farm, Duncannon Smokehouse, Isle of Crackers, Artisan Bakery, Gorse Farm, Killowen Farm, Meadowfield Farm, Mr Jeffares Blackcurrants, Naturally

Cordial, O'Neills Bacon, Slaney Farms Produce, Wexford Creamery, and at certain times of the year – Wild About and Zaeire Artisan Chocolates also. It’s great to see The Wilds back open and making full use of its substantial floor area to maintain a high level of Covid-19 physical distancing. For more information on the Wexford Food Family see: www.wexfordfoodfamily.com n

SuperValu has launched a new, more sustainable option for bagging loose produce. The new bags are washable and certified food safe. This reusable option will keep food fresher for longer, as the breathable material doesn’t sweat in the fridge. Customers can now purchase the new Fruit, Veg & Bakery bags at 2 for €1 at designated points in most stores nationwide. SuperValu are on a mission to make packaging as sustainable as possible as part of their commitment to making 100 per cent of SuperValu own-brand, fresh produce and in-store packaging recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025. The new Fruit, Veg & Bakery bags are an excellent sustainable alternative for customers who can use and reuse them for any loose pro-

duce or bakery items, then take home and pop them back into their reusable shopping bags for the next visit to their local SuperValu. This is another of the many sustainable options now available in stores nationwide. R a y K e l l y, I n t e r i m Managing Director, SuperValu, said; “We are thrilled to roll out yet another sustainable initiative in stores around the country. SuperValu is working hard to offer our customers sustainable choices with continuous measures being introduced to meet this.” SuperValu is committed to reducing its carbon footprint in Ireland. In addition to moving to sustainable packaging, SuperValu is committed to operating all facilities with 100 percent green electricity and to sending no recoverable waste to landfill. n

To advertise in the Slaney News please contact: 087-2403310 For more information or to buy a hamper: www.tastewexford.ie

EnnISCORTHy FARMERS’ MARKET: Saturday mornings, Abbey Square.

The 2020 Eat Wexford Plaque being presented to Simon Nelson of The Wilds.

Best wishes to Casa d'Galo on Main Street, Enniscorthy, which is fully open again for both take-out and sit-down service. For opening hours and new Evening, Sunday Lunch and Weekly Lunch Menus – check out the Facebook page ‘Casa d’ Galo’. The restaurant is taking bookings on 053-9238077. Walk-ins will be accepted depending on availability.

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Slaney Business & Finance

The Wexford Local Enterprise Office (LEO) is a great source of information and help for local businesses. Visit www.LocalEnterprise.ie/Response

Enniscorthy’s Eamonn Doyle is looking forward to working with Wexford’s rapidly expanding Dulann Ltd to create something special and help grow Wexford jobs! Eamonn’s business, Systems & Standards Services, recently “touched elbows” on a partnership agreement with Dulann Ltd marking the occasion with a little fun photo opportunity at the heart of County Wexford – Vinegar Hill. In the coming months Eamonn will be working with Damian Donlon and Siobhan Gordon and their team to introduce an ISO 9001 Standard Quality Management System in their internal operation but also across their Franchise network. n

Enniscorthy Courthouse to be centre for financial services jobs In August 2019, one of the largest job announcements ever for Enniscorthy was made by the IDA. Opus Fund Services set up operations in Enniscorthy expecting to employ 100 people over its first five years here. Founded in 2006, Opus is an award-winning, independently owned and operated global fund administrator. At present the company o p e r a t e s f ro m o ff i c e s i n Templeshannon, opposite Treacys Hotel. It has outgrown the available space there and is now set to occupy the old Courthouse building on Court

Street once the Enniscorthy Municipal District staff move from there back to the Market Square, over the coming months. Opus will lease the Courthouse for a period of ten years at a rent of almost €60,000 p.a. There is provision however for a reduced rent while the company grows its staff numbers. It is anticipated that Opus will outgrow the space in the Courthouse over the coming years and will likely move to a new unit in the new Technology Park currently under construction beside the

old St Senan’s Hospital. The leasing of the Courthouse was approved by the local Enniscorthy Municipal District Councillors and will now go before a full Wexford County Council meeting at which a Section 183 notice will be brought before the members for their approval. The success of Opus to date in Enniscorthy, together with the very successful Indos Financial (Irish office based in Kelly Building, Slaney Place, Enniscorthy) offers strong hope that Enniscorthy could become a major centre for the financial services sector in Ireland. n

Stimulus package boost for business

James Browne TD

ENNISCORTHY BUSINESS ASSOCIATION ALL BUSINESSES WELCOME TO JOIN! Contact: e.b.a.enniscorthy@gmail.com or Slaney News 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com

Fianna Fáil TD for Wexford James Browne says local businesses across Wexford will benefit greatly from the July Stimulus package announced by government. Deputy Browne said, “I welcome the announcement from government today. The stimulus package marks another step in our response to the unprecedented challenge the public health emergency has caused. “The changes and increased funding in the Business Restart Grant scheme are welcome.

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

3 August 2020

www.slaneynews.com

These changes see the maximum payment increased from €10k to €25k and the minimum payment will now be €4k. There have been increases in the eligibility criteria in relation to employment and turnover and to provide grants to a broader range of categories. “The package includes the introduction of the Employment Wage Support Scheme. This scheme is a successor to the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme and ensures employers will have that financial safety net until at least March 2021. “There is a Stay and Spend Initiative tax rebate which will begin from October until next April. This will support the restaurant and accommodation sectors here in Wexford. This year has been a big challenge for the county in terms of tourism. Local businesses reliant on visitors from overseas and from Ireland have faced enormous difficulties. “This stimulus package has over 50 measures and is worth over €7 billion, a major shot in the arm of the economy,” concluded Deputy Browne. n

Eamonn to ensure quality standards are achieved Eamonn Doyle (centre) with Damian Donlon and Siobhan Gordon of Dulann Ltd.

25 new jobs for Wexford Wexford County Council has welcomed the recent announcement by Floridab a s e d M Te c h M o b i l i t y (MTech) that the global leader in lifecycle and repair services for mobile and IT devices has leased a 1400m² facility at Ardcavan Business Park Wexford, to serve as its European base of operations. Conveniently located from a logistic and staffing point of view, the modern facility, which formerly served as group support office of Sam McCauley Chemists, is expected to create in excess of 25 jobs over the next three years, with job applications already invited via www.mtechmobility.com/mtec h-europe. The project, which is supported by the Irish govern-

ment through IDA Ireland, is the latest in a series of welcome job announcements in County Wexford and it follows a period of significant and continued effort by both IDA Ireland and Wexford County Council to attract high quality jobs to the South East region. Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Councillor Ger Carthy added, “The Council is delighted to have had the opportunity to support IDA Ireland in successfully attracting MTech to County Wexford and I congratulate all at IDA Ireland on this success. I also want to wish Jerry Whiston and all the team in Wexford every success and I can assure them of the full support of Wexford County Council as MTech establishes itself here

in Wexford in the months ahead.” Wexford TD James Browne in welcoming the announcement of the 25 new jobs for Wexford stated: “I very much welcome MTech Mobility’s establishment of their new European base in Wexford and the 25 jobs that will be created. "It is a huge vote of confidence in County Wexford. I am determined that this will only be the first of several jobs announcement for Wexford over the lifetime of this new government. “These new jobs, supported by the new Government through the IDA, reflects the commitment of this new Government and its agencies to pursue balanced and sustainable regional development." n

Slaney Services

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VET DIARY FOR AUGUST

with the Moyne Veterinary Hospital Joe Kavanagh writes about a recent urgent case.

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A couple of weeks ago a young dog came in late afternoon to the clinic. Our vet, Padraig, copped on what was wrong with him straight away and decided to admit him and run bloods to confirm his diagnosis.

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The young dog had eaten rat poison and was severely anaemic. Rat poison affects the blood clotting factors, and effectively they are like a haemophiliac. If they get a knock or bleed for any reason the bleeding will not stop. The active ingredient can produce similar results in different species: rats, dogs, cats and I’m pretty sure can do the same in people. It turns out the owner had laid the rat poison in the bales, and the bales were moved about ten days earlier, so the dog probably ate it then. Padraig and the team rigged up a drip. We ran the blood test on him, in house, and luckily enough had the result there and then. As his blood count was 1, which meant he had almost no red blood cells in him, time was of the essence. My own dog, Mac, got hauled up onto the table and, as in different times before, got used as a blood donor. He was as good as gold as we worked out the maximum amount we could afford to take from him, as this other little fellow needed all he could get! The little dog’s condition and vitals were starting to drop so with absolute haste we started the blood transfusion. There are many dangers, with rejection and reaction to the new blood being high on the list. We had to go with it, along with the meds to reduce risk of reaction. We had to hold our breath and hand it over to the man above. It was an anxious wait but within a few minutes he started to brighten up. Within five minutes he was able to hold his head up again and he continued his steady improvement right through the evening. He made such a remarkable recovery that he was able to go home from our hospital the next day. It was a case of good diagnostics, good teamwork, and good luck. Another few minutes either way and he might not have made it. It’s a big ‘thank you’ to all the crew but especially to Mac... our multiple blood donor over the years and his Mac magic! 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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3 August 2020

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Slaney News

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3 August 2020

CONFIRMATIONS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; FAYTHE & PIERCESTOWN

Faythe School, Wexford, Confirmation, 25th July, 2020. Above left: The boys. Above right: The girls.

Piercestown Confirmation, 25th July, 2020. Above left: The boys. Above right: The girls.

Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society at Sinnotts Cross Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society were delighted to be invited to the Sinnotts Cross Commemoration recently at Mooncoin, County Kilkenny. A stunning monument now rests on the spot where members of the 9th Battalion Kilkenny Brigade IRA lay in wait to ambush a Black and Tan patrol, stationed at Fiddown and travelling to Clogga during the War of Independence. The imposing monument is a credit to the organising committee in structure, size and design as a memorial to those brave men who played their part in the struggle for Irish freedom and as a time capsule into which relatives can today place details and mementos of their family members. EHRS Chairman Ray Murphy laid a wreath at the monument on behalf of the Enniscorthy group as part of the commemoration ceremony. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Maria Nolan

Slaney Around the Region

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BUNCLODY… BunCloDy lIBRARy See Bunclody Library’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook. com/BunclodyLibrary/events where you can sign up for the monthly what’s on enewsletter. Also see the library’s website: http:// www.wexford.ie/wex/Depart ments/Library/WhatsOn/ The library is open for book browsing and PC use. Just phone to book a 20-minute session at 053 9375466. BunCloDy pATRon Due to Covid-19 restrictions the annual Patron in Bunclody will not be happening this year. However, Fr Laurence O’Connor will still visit the cemeteries and bless the graves. ST VInCEnT DE pAul Local Confidential helpline 087-3696883. SVP request box is now located at back of shop. There is a newspaper recycling

bin beside SuperValu in aid of S.V.P. SIGnACARE nuRSInG HoME SignaCare Bunclody is a new, state-of-the-art, 62-bedded nursing home, in the heart of Bunclody. Visit SignaCare in Bunclody, email: info@signacare.ie, tel: 053 93 76222. plAyGRounD AnD TEnnIS CouRTS These facilities are now open. But please use your own sanitiser before entering and adhere to social distancing rules. BunCloDy SWIMMInG pool A pay-as-you-go system is in place, €5 for adults, €3 for children per swim session. Full details on www.bunclodyswimmingpool.ie and on their Facebook page: “Bunclody Pool”.

GREENWAY…

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. TouRISM BunCloDy Make sure to visit the Tourism Bunclody Facebook page to view the spectacular images which are posted there daily. BunCloDy FETC Bunclody Further Education and Training Centre will be running a range of part time and full time courses available this September at Bunclody Further Education and Training Centre. For full details see “Bunclody FETC” on Facebook or telephone 053 9377326. n SignaCare Nursing Home Bunclody

€58,000 has been awarded to progress the Rosslare to Waterford Greenway project. Fianna Fáil TD for Wexford James Browne has welcomed this funding from the Department of Transport, Tourism, and Sport. He commented, “The finance provided to Wexford County Council will be used to bring a 58km section from Rosslare Europort to the Bellview connection in Waterford. This will enable connection to the South East Greenway from Waterford to New Ross. “Families across Wexford know how important and valuable greenways are to our area. This benefit was highlighted in full during the lockdown when many were using the greenways for exercise and to get out of their house for fresh air during those difficult times. “I look forward to working with my colleagues in

government to ensure this project is progressed. Today’s funding is an important next step,” concluded Deputy Browne. The funding was also welcomed by Paul Kehoe TD: “Greenways play an important role in supporting local communities to create jobs and bringing visitors to the area. “As we have seen over the course of the lockdown, people are eager to get out into nature and avail of the stunning scenery in our country. “This new local greenway will encourage tourism in the future, and will also provide a safe, segregated space for people walking and cycling. “The inclusion of funding for the Rosslare to Waterford Greenway... shows our commitment to the ‘New Decade, New Approach’ as set out in the Programme for Government. n

FERNS... HISToRIC FERnS M a k e s u re t o c h e c k o u t ‘Historic Ferns’ on Facebook for great aerial shots of the village and its heritage sites such as St. Mary’s Abbey, St. Edan’s Cathedral including the ruins of a Chapter House located to the east of the cathedral, St. Mogue’s cottage and Ferns Castle. ‘Historic Ferns’ thanks Thomas Roche for sharing his wonderful collection of images. FERnS TIDy ToWnS Tidy Town volunteers were out recently weeding and dead-heading at the sensory garden, and scraping, weeding and sweeping between the slabs. The garden was then finished off with a fresh layer of mulch to help suppress the weeds and reduce the use of water by retaining moisture in the soil. Thanks to Angela, Mary, Andrea and Aoibheann for all their hard work. n

ROSSLARE CONFIRMATION...

Scoil Mhuire, Rosslare Strand, Confirmation. Above left: Patrick Kehoe, Aisling and Rachel McMahon. Above right: Lorraine, Aaligeh and Sally Holden.

FERNS DIOCESE...

TAGOAT CONFIRMATION...

Tagoat Confirmation in Tagoat Church, Saturday 11th July. Above left: Jodie Conlon, Garrett Tormey, Stacey Conlon-Tormey and Tara Conlon. Above right: Dean, Suzanne, Jodie and Martin Cashe. Below left: Dermot, Atalanta, Hope and Brendan Ryan. Below right: Niktoriga, Vytaufe and Andrius Dauksiene.

Caitriona Walsh, Bernard McGuinness and John Maher – three of the stewards giving the ‘thumbs up’ to procedures and protocols in place for the recent reopening of Barntown Church. All three are part of a vast crew of church stewards in place across the diocese of Ferns to guide people towards seats, to point out floor markings and sanitising stations, to reassure and answer queries. The stewards represent the diocese’s commitment to offer as safe and healthy a place for worship as is possible.

Slaney Motoring

Caroline gets motoring REVIEW BY CAROLINE KI D D

When peugeot revealed the latest generation of the 208 back in 2019, it was a radical departure in design for the French supermini. Awards followed including European Car of the year 2020 and a Red Dot Design Award. now it’s available in Ireland. The arrival of the 208 is the next chapter in a story that has seen the peugeot lion in ascent since the new generation, mid-size 3008 SuV debuted in 2017 with premium style and innovative iCockpit interior arrangement. Now these top-drawer Peugeot character traits have worked their way down to the 208. What results is a charismatic small car that

3 August 2020

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Peugeot 208

brings new levels of engagement and presence to the Bsegment. Just like the trendsetter 205 from more than 30 years ago, the Peugeot 208 disrupts any notion that small cars need be boring. Stand out features include fang-like LED daytime running lights at the front and ‘3-claw’ LED light effect at the rear, as well as a bold black band stretching the full width of the boot lid, bearing a typed out P E U G E O T. Faro Yellow is offered as a no cost option and gives the car a special vibe. Inside, the 208 has a new interior design inspired by the brand’s larger models. The new generation cockpit

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Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the founder and editor of the online automotive magazine Changing lanes and a jury member for Irish Car of the year. Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at www.changinglanes.ie.

Peugeot 208 interior.

sits very well here, translating perfectly to a small car. All new 208s get the Peugeot iCockpit arrangement – digital instrument panel, touchscreen with elegant piano key short cut buttons, and a compact steering wheel. The ventilation controls are managed via the touchscreen, which can be fiddly to use on the move. More impressive is the 3D digital instrument cluster, where some information appears closer to you. The 2020 Peugeot 208 is longer, wider and lower than its predecessor, yet inside it still feels like a small car. The rear bench is probably best left to two people, while some rivals do it better in terms of the

space available. The boot is 311 litres with considerable depth, and a spare wheel is also included as standard. The range kicks off from €18,300 for the Active trim with equipment including 16” alloy wheels, hands free start, air conditioning, cruise control, traffic sign recognition, auto headlamps, rear parking sensors and 7” touchscreen with Apple Car Play and Android Auto. The Allure model is available from €21,450, while the GT Line is a v a i l a b l e f ro m € 2 3 , 5 9 5 . Equipment highlights include 17” alloys, high beam assist, parking camera, ambient lighting and automatic climate control.

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The new range also debuts the first ever electric 208 – the Peugeot e-208. It has a 50 kWh battery and a range of up to 350 km. It's expensive however and starts from €27,334, includi n g V RT r e l i e f a n d Government grants. If you want a combustion engine in your 208, you have good choice. There is a 1.2-litre entry level model with 75 hp and five speed manual gearbox. For more power, there’s a 1.2-litre turbo petrol with 100 hp or 130 hp, with 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic gearboxes available. There’s also a 1.5-litre diesel manual with 100 hp. Built on the latest generation CMP platform, the new Peugeot 208 is 30 kg lighter than the car it replaces and comes with improved aerodynamics and reduced roll resistance. On the road, the new 208 feels tighter and more driver focused. The small, compact steering wheel lends a sporty feel, but there is not much in the way of feedback reaching the rim. A missed opportunity perhaps considering the grip and control of this small car though bends. The 1.2-litre petrol is smooth and lively, delivering 0 – 100 km h acceleration in 9.9 seconds. Over a week of driving, my average fuel

consumption was 6.0 l/100 km while motor tax is €180 per year. The new 208 has already won internationally for its bold design and innovation. Here it will stand out for the breadth of the range and value to be had. With so many options including petrol, diesel and electric, automatic and manual gearboxes, buyers will find the right balance for their budget and needs. On the road the 208 has been sharpened up, but the interior is the most outstanding feature of this car. The 208 has stayed a small car in the race to be bigger. So if you’re after the most comfortable supermini for rear passengers, this isn’t it. But if you just want a cool small car, this is it. Model tested: Peugeot 208 GT Line 1.2 Puretech 100 hp. Price: €23,595 (from €18,300). Engine: 1.2-litre turbo petrol. Power: 100 hp. Torque: 205 Nm. 0-100km/h: 9.9 seconds. Top speed: 188 km/h. Fuel economy (WLTP): 5.5-5/6 l/100km. CO2 emissions (WLTP): 124-126g/100km. Motor Tax: €180 per year. n

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Slaney News

www.slaneynews.com This month I am featuring a most successful artist living among us here in Wexford for the past twenty years. The gentle, soft-spoken and very beautiful Zane Sutra left her native latvia to come to Wexford and become a well known and talented artist. I first met Zane back in 2014 at her exhibition Empty Chairs at the annual Enniscorthy Strawberry Fair and I was immediately taken with the poignant exhibition, and its creator, elegant and gentile Zane has since been shortlisted for the Hennessy Portrait Prize in the National Gallery and has exhibited in the Ranelagh Arts Centre, the Signal Arts Centre, Bray, InSpire Gallery, GOMA Contemporary, Waterford, Wexford Art Centre, P re s e n t a t i o n A r t s C e n t re , Enniscorthy, Green Acres, Wexford and at the Art Rooms Show London. This delicate lady paints from the heart with emotion and a strength beyond her own physique. Her thought-provoking pieces depict strong, real women with all of life’s ups and downs and passions portrayed in their expressions. There is something very beautiful about Zane Sutra’s women, at first glance they look sexy and attractive but on further examination a slightly darker element manifests as sadness, stress, anxiety, fear, love, hate and all kinds of reality stare back at you from their eyes. This haunting aspect to Zane’s paintings makes them hypnotically attractive and provocative. Her work stimulates and challenges and it is little wonder that she is now receiving the recognition that she so richly deserves and I recently caught up with her to chat about her work, her life and her success. Tell me a little about your current position and what you do. I am an artist. I paint figurative paintings in one of the most traditional, old-school, oil-on-canvas techniques. Sometimes it feels like I live in a different century. In the world of the highest level technologies where people take trips to the moon, the old-school painting technique and my subject matter used, look quite old fashioned. What path led you to your current position.

SLANEYSIDE SUCCESS STORIES

What’s the one thing about you few people know. This is quite odd, but I know how to see things in the world that others miss. It’s not a witchcraft.

A series by Maria Nolan

Probably my dream did it. Since I remember myself, I remember me wanting to create. Who and what motivated and influenced you along the way. My first supporters were my mum and my grandad, who showed me the Academy of Art in Riga. It was a beautiful, red gothic building, and looked like a king's palace to me. Grandpa told me that the students paint there all day. I knew I wanted to belong there one day! Also he was telling me stories about my great-great-uncle Julijs Feders, a famous Latvian landscape painter (1838-1909). Later in my life I was hugely supported by my children. I was very lucky to live my dream as if it’s real. No fear of flying, no fear of falling!

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.

To me my life is a dream come true! To some the journey of an artist looks like a holiday. In fact, the painter's studio is a very solitary place. Sometimes awfully isolated, seriously sobering, where there is no other soul, no ‘other thought allowed' to come into the room where you work. When the painting is done, you come out and life is fun again. I love it! As a child what did you want to be when you grew up. I wanted to be either an ice skater or a parachute jumper. Who were your childhood heroes? As a child I was raised up in the Opera house in Riga, Latvia. I spent days watching opera and ballet rehearsals and how the stage gets designed by stage artists. For a five-year-old that was magic. When I was seven, I saw the movie The Sound of Music. I was raised as an only child, so on that very day I decided that I’ll have a big family of seven children. How would you describe yourself. If I was allowed to fantasise, I’d see myself being born in 1691 near Venice. In the 18th century, prior t o g o i n g m i s s i n g f ro m t h e

When it comes to show my work to the public I could become extremely vulnerable. It's like to strip in front of strangers. I am always too self-doubting, insecure, never good enough. No one on this planet should feel like that. We all are worthy. When God made the earth and us, He said, IT’S PERFECT! What do you dislike about others.

If you could live in another time, when would it be.

Zane Sutra: Latvia’s Loss, Enniscorthy’s Asset. Solomon’s Porch in Jerusalem, I used to be part of a gypsy dance group performing for Jewish king Ahaz. During the Belle Époque in France, I was hanging out with some decadents at the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur and modelling w i t h S u z a n n e Va l a d o n i n Montmartre. Also, some might remember my name revealed in connection with the Dunbar Armored robbery in Los Angeles in the 1990s. How do you motivate and influence people. Primarily my interest is to express my love, to express my blessings. I don't believe in the idea of artist changing the world. I believe that the power of mind, the power of

love and inspiration is in God's hands. How did we get here and where am I going to - at all times most important questions. If my art makes one think or cry or to open one’s conscious mind to unity, eternity, limitlessness – fantastic! What are you most proud of. I am proud of my absolutely amazing family and my incredible children. Also I am proud of who God designed me to be. I am Latvian, I am an artist, a woman going through heaven and hell situations in life. So yes I am proud of being me. What do you dislike most about yourself.

Kia Ora Mini Farm, Gorey – open for business

On a recent visit to Kia Ora Mini Farm: Alexander and Joanne Roluch.

If you could change one thing in your past what would it be.

I don’t understand small mindedness, ungratefulness. I don’t get it when people underestimate themselves – their faith, their gifts, their power! We all are designed to create, to be great. The capacity of our mind, the intelligence is so high, but nobody is using it on its highest potential. I don’t like when I see people wasting their time, living their lives like they are asleep. Some of us are walking like blind, like sleepwalkers in a thick fog. Also it's seriously annoying when people constantly check their phones. Last week I decided to switch off my phone for 72 hours. Got a very different reaction from different people, but all good, all survived.

Has it been a difficult or enjoyable journey.

At Kia Ora Mini Farm: Alaa and Leen Abdalla.

I’d love to live in the age when believing and not knowing were the only human knowledge and true nature. When the faith, love and light was the only currency. I would like to live in the era where all the children are healthy and happy, men don’t cheat on their wives, everyone is respected and respectful, no legalistic mindsets. How would you like to be remembered. I’d love to be remembered as a godly mother and grandmother to my children and grandchildren. I want their hearts to be made of pure gold, strong and faithful. I want their spirit and soul to be alive and enlightened. I want their eyes and hearts to be wide open and able to see. That’s m y o n l y d u t y a s a p a re n t . Whatever I am doing in my spare time, is not important.

According to C.S. Lewis, 'We can't change the past, but we can ruin the present by worrying about the future'. What do you think is the best thing about Enniscorthy/Wexford /Ireland. I love that we have so many great artists and such great art support in Co. Wexford. Can’t imagine art life without Wexford Arts Centre and The Presentation Centre in Enniscorthy. Also I am very happy that we have Bellefield framers and the Astro fitness centre and my friends of ALBA restaurant of course. Really love the sense of community in Enniscorthy. What do you like most about your job/career. I love to interact with my viewer in an unconscious, unworldly level. As an artist I’m fortunate and even entitled to make things up. It's a bit like programming another person’s mind and their awareness and the response. I am inviting strangers to think and respond the way I suggest. My great privilege. What was the best day of your life. The day I started my relationship with God in 1987. Undoubtedly one of the best ones! If you could be or do anything else what would it be. If I could I would love to work for palliative care support. I know what human beings should know on their deathbeds. Also when I was small, I wanted to become a parachute jumper. It could be fun! We are so lucky to have an artist of the calibre of Zane Sutra here in Enniscorthy. Latvia’s loss is certainly proving to be a gain for the town as Zane’s popularity grows and expands, so please give her your support, she is doing her bit to put Enniscorthy up there on the national and international art scene and I would like to wish her continued success and encourage everyone to take a look at her work, it is truly amazing. – Maria Nolan

At Kia Ora: Harry and Claire Thompson, Elle Heffernan, Julie Hyland, Juliet and Isabelle Heffernan.

Slaney News

3 August 2020

www.slaneynews.com

EnnISCoRTHy EyE

diAry dATES

a column by Joseph doyle

coNgrATuLATioNS... ☺ Congratulations to Aimee Breen who celebrated her 21st birthday recently. ☺ Across the water, Liverpool ended their 30 year drought by winning their 19th league title. Well done. ☺ History has been made at St Aidan's Primary School following the graduation of sixth class pupil Darragh Jordan. 12-year-old Darragh is the first child with Down Syndrome to graduate at St Aidan's School. He celebrated with his mum, Anita,

TowN TALK...

grandparents Paddy and Ann Buckley, and other family members. Darragh was born with three holes in his heart and had to undergo open heart surgery six years ago, but he has never let his health issues hold him back. This September Darragh will be starting first year at Enniscorthy Vocational College (EVC). We wish him the very best of luck with his secondlevel education. – Joseph doyle

Cllr Jackser Owens

resume our l il w e w ll e w g in o All g sue. tember is p e S r u o in s te ore a m D Diary be a much 9 it’s likely to id-1 rry. e normally ca But due to Cov g than what w tin lis d te ric rest

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.

Aimee Breen with Joseph Doyle.

drAMA NEwS... As you will read elsewhere in this issue, Enniscorthy Drama Group in conjunction with Enniscorthy Municipal District Council will host a performance of Mark o’Rowe’s powerful play Howie the rookie at Market Square, Enniscorthy, on the weekend of 14th/15th August. This is a first for EDG and the group very much appreciates the opportunity to bring the marvellous talents of its actors out on to the streets of Enniscorthy and into the heart of the community. Howie the Rookie, starring the one and only Fintan Kelly, tells the story through two monologues of the nightmare under-

world of 1990s Dublin with pub brawls, drunken dolly birds, and Hiace vans, with Fintan taking on the ultimate challenge of playing both characters as only he can do. Fintan toured Ireland with the play last year to great acclaim and garnered excellent reviews, so don’t miss it. I highly recommend everbody to come out on the weekend of 14th/15th August for a unique experience at the Market Square. There will be no admission charge but all donations at the event will go to Slaney Search & Rescue in memory of the late Bernard Buddy Kirwan. – Joseph doyle

c.F. NEwS & FuNdrAiSErS There will be no more Cystic Fibrosis fundraisers until further notice. Please check www.cfireland.ie for updates.

A new tourist attraction is on the cards for Enniscorthy in the next couple of years as tourists and locals alike will be able to visit Enniscorthy Castle on the west side of town via a cable car from the Turret Rocks on the east side of town, travelling over the River Slaney. This is all part of a proposed new tourism plan. The cable car and associated car and coach park at Turret Rocks is set to cost around €13m mainly financed through the private sector and while I for one welcome this proposal as it would be good for our town, I can't see it happening in my lifetime. Hopefully I’ll be proved wrong! Cllr Jackser Owens believes the cable car idea is pie in the sky and what this town really needs desperately are public toilets on Vinegar Hill and in the Orchard Peace Park. And he believes that proper access to Vinegar Hill is essential to promote tourism in the town. He would like to see tourist buses in town ferrying tourists to and from Vinegar Hill with proper guides on those buses. Some of the money to be spent on the tourism plan could be

used, he says, to create jobs in the town. We need high prof i l e re t a i l e r s l i k e Te s c o , Penneys, TK Max, Heatons, McDonald's, etc plus a multiscreen cinema, bowling alley, skateboard park, play zone for kids, an indoor bmx park, etc. He would like to see a mini train bringing tourists around town like in Killkenny. I agree with Jackser on some of these ideas. He also wants Slaney Search & Rescue to have a new pontoon on the Slaney in Enniscorthy to facilitate rapid deployment of boats during any emergency. At present, boats have to be launched sometimes from Edermine which is 15 minutes away. Continuing on the subject of a wishlist for the town, I think a rescue helicopter for Slaney Search & Rescue, based in Enniscorthy or at the ambulance station, would be money well spent. Best of luck to the powers that be with their ambitious tourism plans for the town, but we need toilets first!!! Finally, just a reminder that the local Patrons will not be taking place this year. – Joseph doyle

Talented Enniscorthy actor, Fintan Kelly, with Joseph Doyle. Fintan will be performing a one-man show in the Market Square on 14/15th August. See details elsewhere on this page.

Tv NEwS... A Touch of Frost – oh it's very cold out there for August isn't it, but no frost. But the frost I’m referring to is Detective Inspector Jack Frost – the main character in the police drama, A Touch of Frost, starring Del Boy himself, Sir David Jason, yes the one and only Del Boy from Only Fools and Horses fame. David Jason, sorry Sir David Jason to give him his proper title, starred in A Touch of Frost, a police drama that was on BBC for 8 or 9 years in the 1990s, and is now back on our screens on Virgin Media 2 on Thursday nights at 10pm. Jason plays Jack Frost who

is a detective with the metropolitan police and has a female police partner. He doesn’t always play by the book and likes to do things his way which lands him in trouble with his superiors. This series is very well written and very well put together. The only thing is the storylines can go one into the other so you don't actually know which crime you’re following or who killed who until the end. I'll be reviewing everyone’s favourite TV series Only Fools and Horses in next month’s paper. – Joseph doyle

Enniscorthy Greyhound Track is open to the public. Racing is on Mondays and Thursdays. First Race at 8pm with gates open from 7.30pm. Admission €10 and OAPs €8. Kids under 18 – Free admission.

Just a reminder folks to shop local and keep money circulating in our town. Keep safe and keep washing your hands!

Slaney Sport

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SLANEY OLYMPIC WEEKLY ROUND-UP

A different ‘kinda’ GAA normal

FIGHTING COCKS GFC 5K & 10K FUN RUN 2020: Government Guidelines Relaxed – Check! An actual race – Check! A race close to County Wexford – Check! Slaney Olympic was well-represented at the Fighting Cocks GFC 5k & 10k Fun Run 2020, and from the results, it appears that many of the runners did not let lockdown slow them down. For the 5k, Slaney Olympic had two runners finish in the top 10 and five in the top 15. For the 10k, Slaney Olympic had two runners finish in the top 10. 5k: Jessie O’Connor (17:58), Conor Hyland (18:05) Bobby Redmond (18:12), Paul Browne (18:23) Colin Garry (18:44), Michael Quigley (18:48) Esther O’Leary (22:52). 10k: Denis Whelan (35:40), Sean Crotty (37:32). GRANGE FERMOY AC’S BOB BURKE 4 MILE ROAD RACE: Ger Forde had a fantastic run in the ‘invitation only’ event down in Fermoy, County Cork where the men were expected to finish under 23 minutes and the women were expected to finish under 26 minutes. Racing against some of the top runners in Ireland, Ger finished 5th overall with a time of 19:26, only 21 seconds behind the top finisher! UPCOMING SLANEY OLYMPIC EVENTS: 30 August – Oylegate 10k / Half Marathon at 10.00am (half marathon) and 10.30am (10k), Oylegate GAA Grounds. Slaney Olympic was founded in 1991 to support the running community around Enniscorthy. The club wears the colours of Wexford.

Enniscorthy Ladies Golf on Tuesday the 30th of June the club had its 18-hole ladies stableford competition kindly sponsored by Lady Captain Meta Cummins. 93 ladies took to the fairways. Standard scratch 37pts. Results: 1st Jacinta Kelly (39) with 43pts. 2nd Pauline Rogan (22) with 40pts. 3rd Christine Ceaser (28) with 38pts last 3. 4th Patrica Cullen (28) with 38pts. 9 hole Qualifier: 1st Bernie Delaney 20pts. 2nd Maureen O Dwyer 19th. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– on the 7th of July the ladies competition was kindly sponsored by Mary Breen. 35 ladies took part in this competition. Standard scratch 35pts. 1st Sue Neville (38) with 39pts. 2nd Jacinta Kelly (35) with 37pts b/9. 9 hole Qualifier: 1st Marie Duggan 18pts. Congratulations to all winners. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– on Tuesday the 14th of July 97 ladies took part in the ladies sin-

Jacinta Kelly.

gle s/f competition. A big ‘thank you’ to Mary Haligan for sponsoring this competition. The standard scratch was 37 on Sunday and 36 on Tuesday. 1st Ciara Sharkey (03) 39pts. 2nd Kate Crean (41) 38pts. 3rd Jacinta Kelly (35) 37pts b3. 4th Sue Neville (36) 37pts. 9 hole Qualifier: 1st Deirdre Bowler 19pts. 2nd Marie Healy 18pts. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– on Thursday the 16th of July the ladies had their first open senior singles stableford competition. This was kindly sponsored by Theresa Bailey and it was great to see so many visitors visiting the club. 80 ladies in total played. Standard scratch was 36 points. Overall Winner, Margaret Frayne (12) 37pts. Category A, Maureen Mc Cafferty (41) 35pts. Category B , Jacinta Kenny (20) 36pts. Category C Anne Nolan (18) 36pts. Visitor, Alma Roche, Rosslare, (35) 35pts. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– on Tuesday the 21st of July the ladies singles competition was kindly sponsored by Cllr Pip Breen. 86 ladies played on the day and the standard scratch was 37pts. 1st Margaret Frayne (12) 39pts. 2nd Catherine Creane (40) 39pts. 3rd Annette Cullen (18) 38pts. 4th Nicola Jacob (13) 36pts b9. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––– on Friday the 24th of July the ladies open s/f competition was kindly sponsored by Old Bawn Mobile Park. 19 ladies took part in this competition and the standard scratch was 35. Overall winner was Dorothy Kenny (24) with 37pts. Visitors’ prize went to Jane O’Shea from Roganstown GC (15) with 31pts. n

Above and below: Action from the Wexford Senior Hurling Championship. Pics: Maria Nolan.

The 2020 GAA Senior Hurling Championship, albeit governed by stringent Covid-19 restrictions, is treating us to some fantastic encounters and some absolutely fabulous hurling with many of our county hurlers in particular dishing up classic performances with their clubs. It seems the Covid break has not done hurling any harm, our players are back fitter, leaner and hungrier. And in truth we had all been starved of hurling but the opening stages of this year’s competition have been a joy to watch, with fire, passion and all the intensity of the Championship proper.

Rapparees were extremely unfortunate to exit after only six days. Forced to play without their key defender – the injured Liam Ryan, they were perhaps a bit pedestrian in the opening game against the Shelmaliers but pulled out all the stops in their encounter less than a week later against opponents Naomh Eanna. Winning by 2 points with the game in the dying minutes, an incorrect lineball decision resulting in a dubious free on the 21 yard line, taken by Conor McDonald who hit for goal, valiantly saved by Tomas Mossy Mahon, ball dribbles out, Gorey defender David O’Brien goes down on it and a penalty is

awarded, and this time around Conor Mc makes no mistake and buries it in the net in the 34th minute of the half. Rapparees exit from the 2020 Championship despite being the best team on the day. They were followed this weekend by Cloughbawn who went down to Oulart, Rathnure who went down to Glynn/ Barntown and Fethard who were beaten by Ferns. Each game to date has been hotly contested with fast hurling and plentiful, well-taken scores, so far Covid has done nothing but enhance the Senior Hurling Championship so this new format may be something to explore going forward.

This weekend the pairings for the quarter-finals emerged with the Harriers beating Fethard to go forward to play The Shelmaliers, Gorey beating The Shelmaliers in Bellefield again by the narrowest of margins giving them a spot against Ferns, Oulart beating Cloughbawn to go on to play the Annes and Glynn/ Barntown beating Rathnure to go on to play St. Martins. With the games we’ve seen so far it’s all to look forward to next weekend in the quarter finals to be held in Chadwicks Wexford Park on Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th August. – Maria Nolan

Enniscorthy Rugby Club news... Tomas Stamp will be Club Captain for the 2020-2021 season. Involved with the Senior squad in ERFC since 2009, Tomas has been an integral part of the senior squad ever since. A winner of four Provincial Towns Cup medals (2012/2015/2018/2019) and an All-Ireland Junior Cup winner in 2014 and 2016, the second rower has been instrumental in the club’s progression winning the Leinster League and being promoted to the All-Ireland league through the round robin in 2019. A true club man who has demonstrated his impact to the group both on and off the pitch, Tomas has supported the younger members in the senior

squad as well as the youth teams. Tomas will be ably supported by the two vice-captains for the 2020-2021 season: Arthur Dunne first started playing for Enniscorthy RFC at the age of 8 under the coaching guidance of Seamus Shore and Mick Breen. He continued to play throughout the age grades up to under 18s while playing schools rugby at Newtown School. After returning from London in 2014, Arthur began to play senior rugby for Enniscorthy seconds. He played on the consecutive 2nds Towns Cup winning teams (2014/2015) (2015/2016). He was also a member of the All Ireland Cup winning team (2015 2016).

Arthur is now a regular first team player and was part of the back-to-back Towns Cup successes (2017/2018 & 2018/2019), Leinster League 1A winning squad and AIL promotion (2018/2019). MJ Doyle joined the club as a minis player, starting with the U11s and playing the whole way through the youths teams (winning multiple Leinster Leagues and Youth Cups) and up into the U19s. MJ had his first taste of senior rugby in his U19s season – playing a handful of games with the 2nd XV. MJ Left the club in the 2010 season to join Sundays Well RFC who, at the time were in Division 2 of the AIL. He spent a number of years both outside of Wexford and

Ireland, and moved back to Enniscorthy in 2019 where he joined back up with the senior team seamlessly integrating into the squad alongside his younger brother Nick. MJ showed incredible commitment to his rehabilitation, working with Dave O’Dwyer to recover from their respective serious leg injuries – demonstrating what true team men they are. n

Slaney News

3 August 2020

MARSHALSTOWN CONFIRMATION

PIERCESTOWN CONFIRMATION

Marshalstown N.S. School Confirmation in Marshalstown Church, Friday. 24th July. Above left: Jason, Grace and Jenny Van Rensburg. Above right: Ryan, Sadie and Sarah Quigley. Below left: Andrew Lawlor, Lucy and Paula Morris. Below right: Catherine, Abi, Amy and Niall Finn.

At Piercestown NS Confirmation, 25th July, 2020. Linda and Kate Stevenson.

Kirsty, Tadgh, Heather and Gerard O’Leary.

KENNEDY PARK CONFIRMATION

Maeve, Charlie, Killian and Stephen Conway.

Kennedy Park 6th Class Confirmation in Clonard Church, Wexford, Friday 31st July Above left: Carol, Olive and Mark Bergin. Above right: Sheila O’Rourke, Mick, Grace, Patty and Kitty O’Connor. Below left: Padhraic, Ella, Darragh and Aisling McLoughlin. Below right: Ronan, Billy, Sarah and Valerie Kelly-Dunne.

Kate Stevenson and Amber Murphy. Daragh O’Rourke.

Slaney News

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FAYTHE CONFIRMATION St John of God Primary School, The Faythe, Wexford, Confirmation in Bride Street Church, Saturday 25th July. Above left: Michelle Coughlin, Edward and Tristan McCarthy. Above centre: Willow, Derek, Sean, Conall and Shona King. Above right: Niamh and Conor Clowery and John McClean.

Two years ago Charlie and Stan Martin and Cllr Lisa McDonald started a Petition for a Road Pedestrian Crossing in Wellingtonbridge when they were in the New Ross District. Wellingtonbridge since moved to the Rosslare District and it is now getting the crossing petitioned for – a great example of People Power. Cllr Lisa McDonald, who pushed relentlessly for the crossing, says, “This crossing has been lobbied hard for and.... myself and my Rosslare colleagues were able to deliver it for the area to help people access the services in their village without fearing for their safety.” Picture shows Cllr Lisa McDonald (extreme right) with locals in Wellingtonbridge.

SCOIL MHUIRE ROSSLARE STRAND Confirmation

Scoil Mhuire Rosslare Strand Confirmation. Left: Some of the Confirmation boys. Right: Grainne, Orlaibh and Sean Gorman.

Enjoying the summer in Courtown

Kids performing in the summer camp at the Currid School of Performing Arts in its studio above Flanagan's Wharf in Courtown.

Right ➤ Courtown Harbour – the place for sun and ice cream as Saorse and Donnadh McIntyre enjoy the summer weather there.

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