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House building on the way back across the county Co. Wexford may be on the verge of emerging from a five year recession which saw thousands of people lose their jobs and construction across the county grind to a halt. For the first time since 2008 there are signs that construction is on the way back across the county with Wexford Co. Council dealing with the first significant planning applications for more than five years. And the first signs of light in what has been a very gloomy period are emerging in North Wexford and around Wexford town where developers and builders have started to lodge applications for house building. Although not on the scale of the boom time developments the latest housing applications for smaller sized developments seen as much more sustainable in the short term. News of the increased activity emerged at a meeting of the Wexford Municipal District Council on Monday when Planning Executive Liam Bowe revealed that officials had noticed a welcome upturn trend in activity. Mr Bowe made his comments when reporting to council members on planning activity over the summer months which included an application for a seventeen house development at Newtown Road on the outskirts of Wexford town. The application n was granted subject to co0nditions but a separate application for the building of ten houses at Mulgannon, also on the outskirts of Wexford town was refused.
In Gorey there has been a steady increase in the number of applications being handled by the Council. One large scale scheme in the area is still awaiting a decision. And there was good news too this week on the issue of unfinished estates with the Council officials revealing that real progress was now being achieved in several areas. Cllr
Jim Moore told the meeting that the progress was as a result of the painstaking work that had been invested in the issue by Council officials. However, the problem of boarded up houses in some areas remains and a resolution of the problem may still be some way off. Despite thousands of people sitting on the housing list waiting for homes
many of the boarded up properties are in areas where there is no demand. Wexford Director of Services Tony Larkin told Monday’s meeting that in Bridgetown where there are a number of such properties there is no demand for housing with those seeking homes concentrated in the urban area.
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a visit to various historical attractions in and around the town including Vinegar Hill where Bob Gillard joined the Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal
District Council, Barbara Ann Murphy in laying wreaths in memory of all those who died in the 1798 Rebellion. Picture Liz Wildes
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Chronicle September 03, 2014
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News
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Out and About this Summer!
Luke’s Lines
with Adam Ennis
Luke Kennedy
Police brutality in Ferguson
It would be nice to be able to say that the case in Ferguson is a unique one, but it is not, it is merely the latest atrocity in a long series of events. There is always talk of Islamic terrorists and the threat they pose to America, and indeed the recent case of James Foley demonstrates the lows to which hose people will sink. What the right wing media seems to refuse to acknowledge, however, is America’s serious problem with Domestic Terrorism, dating back to the era of the KKK in the post reconstruction South which is still alive and well in the actions of elements of America’s Police . Hyberbole? When it is murder and harassment on a regular basis, I would argue it’s not. Too many policemen treat black people and indeed, anyone who is not a police officer with the same disdain an Islamic terrorist would have towards anyone who does not conform to their brand of religious extremism. It has been proven that Michael Brown, the latest victim of police brutality, had marijuana in his system at the time of his murder, and he may or may not have shop lifted cigars, depending on who you believe. Does this justify multiple gun shots to the body? If you’re a sane and rational person, then no, it does not. Then there is the matter of self defence. Darren Wilson, the perpetrator of this crime,
and his comrades in the Ferguson police force claim that Darren Wilson had a swollen face from a altercation with Michael Brown, who they claim initiated the conflict. This directly contradicts every eye witness account
Michael Brown, Murdered by Officer Darren Wilson which as a collective say that Darren Wilson stopped Michael Brown and his friend Dorian Johnson while they were walking down the middle of the street, and asked them to move to the pavement. When they replied that they were just on their way to where they wanted to go, and were nearly there, he opened the door, and this is where the accounts differ. Witnesses say Darren Wilson grabbed Michael Brown by the neck from his squad car and threatened to shoot him. When he pulled away and ran away the cop shot him, Michael Brown surrendered/put his hands up
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and was then shot multiple times. The police claim that Michael Brown opened the car door and physically assaulted Darren Wilson and tried to reach for his gun. In response, Darren Wilson shot him . What is undisputed is that Michael Brown was unarmed. Two more factors make the case of “self defence” by Darren Wilson suspect. The fact that Michael Brown’s body was left lying in the street for 4 hours afterwards, and that no incident report was filed regarding the case within the first 24 hours, which is standard procedure for policemen when a suspect is killed in the line of duty. Instead the case was handed over to the St Louis police department, who wrote and released an incident report after 12 days. Michael Brown’s case, as I already said is nowhere near a unique one, and is part of a long history of such cases. Two instances of police brutality that particularly stick out are the Murder of Amadou Diallo in 1999, who was fired at 41 times by 4 members of the NYPD, and was shot by 19 of those bullets, and Abner Louima, a Haitian man who was beaten and raped with a broom handle by three members of the NYPD in 1997. Much hype is made of threats abroad, but perhaps America first needs to take a long hard look at its own rotten core, the one it all too often ignores.
The Chronicle is published by Mount Leinster Publishing Ltd, 2 Charlotte Street, Wexford. Printed by Datascope Ltd, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy
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And we’re back! I actually managed to get around to doing a few things this week for a change. Starting off early last week, I went to the Loreto Grad in the Riverbank and it didn’t disappoint! J-90 were playing (surprise surprise) for most of the night which went down a treat. Apart from spending a million euro on drinks, it was all good! Of course, as customary with these things a house party or 2 was on the cards for later in the night. Between the grad committee and the staff in the Riverbank, they did an unbelievable job, so kudos to them! The following night I was working down at Juice Teen Disco and sure, I had to stop off in Metro 17 after to see how their Green Room was doing! Emmett O’Connor opened up the night mixing between covers and his own originals, as always, he was flawless. Emmett was followed by the local up and coming band “Static” who
played for about 40 minutes switching things up with everything from The Cranberry’s to their own take on Sinead O’Connor. They were awesome! The Ocelots followed after the 40 minutes. You’d know these lads from setting the mood on the main street busking most weeks. As always, they gave an exhibition of a per-
formance! The crowd were well and truly on their feet by the time the 4 lads were done. Of course, The Green Room wouldn’t be complete without the uber-talented Amanda Cooke coming on and off stage throughout the night helping out the artists and the crowd by sharing her words of wisdom! I can’t urge people to get down there the last
Friday of every month enough! Whether you’re a musician, music lover, beer lover or general craic-merchant, you’ll fit in perfectly. The night after I was busy down in Central Station for an open-deck birthday party which was just what I needed. Few sociables, you can’t go wrong! I’m “off” now for the next 2 weeks putting plans together for the Junior Cert results night I’ll be organising with the 2 partners in crime, Cullie and Eoin. Last year’s event sold out straight away, with over 800 teenagers celebrating their results. This year, we’ve upped our capacity to make sure we won’t be turning people away. Buses are already in place from Carlow, Arklow and greater Wexford, so as you can imagine, I can’t wait for this one!! So, spread the word – Metropolis on the 10th of September for the Junior Cert results!
NWSPCA Report
Lots of Farewells We had a really busy week in the North Wexford SPCA with many 4legged friends finding new homes. Dogs Biscuit, Diesel, Benson, Alfie & Jessie got homed as did 5 Springer cross puppies. Also Sally and Lottie headed to our colleagues at the Dublin SPCA. There was a real exodus in the cattery with siblings Pepper, Peanut, Tof-
fee and Sushi leaving as well as Diesel, Izzy, Joy, Boots, Mittens, Pingo, Annalise and Amber finding their new humans and forever homes. We wish you and your humans all the best! Joey is a 7-year-old German Shepard Dog. He is fully vaccinated, microchipped and neutered. Joey is a gorgeous dog who needs big walks and some training. He does tend to jump up and "mouth" so a family with no small kids would be best. If you have room and time in your life for this big guy please contact the NWSPCA. Hilda is an approx. 2-month-old kitten who is currently being cared for in our cattery and up for adoption. Hilda
will be fully vaccinated before heading to her new home. She is a lovely little bundle of fun and would make a great addition to any family that considers adopting her. The North Wexford SPCA is always on the lookout for new volunteers. If you can spare a few hours per week, please make contact with us on 087-6392531, send an email to nwspca@hotmail.com or join our Facebook page
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Rates cut bid to boost Wexford town business A new drive is to be made by the local authority to fill vacant shop and office premises in Wexford town. Two initiatives were announced this week aimed at encouraging local producers to rent out retail space in the town while separately an effort is to be made to lure big business to
some of the larger vacant office buildings outside the town centre. Local authority bosses are keen to stress that the scheme is designed to protect against new operators having an unfair advantage over existing traders in the town. In the retail area incentives
will be offered for the encouragement of art and craft related studios or shops and artisan food shops in designated areas of the town. The grant is being offered as a contribution towards fit out costs and represents 75% of the rates payable on the property in year one with 50%
Packed programme for Newfoundland festival The story of the 1798 Rebellion and the attractions of Vinegar Hill were extended to a whole new audience at the weekend when Enniscorthy hosted the Ireland Newfoundland festival with visitors to the town enjoying a packed programme of events which were organised by a local committee.
Mons. Lory Kehoe, Cllr. Barbara Ann Murphy, Chairman Enniscorthy Municipal District and Niall Wall at the Civic Reception hosted for the Newfoundland visitors. Pic Liz Wildes
The three day event included guided tours of key attractions around Enniscorthy and beyond as the visitors were provided with guided tours of venues of historic importance. But first they enjoyed the splendid surroundings of Monart Spa for lunch on Thursday before being taken to St. Aidan’s Cathedral for a guided tour. The visitors were hosted by local families in the town for their stay and they were given civic welcome b y the Municipal District Council on Thursday evening before heading off to a night of greyhound racing at Enniscorthy Stadium. The 1798 Centre, Enniscorthy Castle, the Fr. Murphy Centre in Boolavogue and the Vinegar Battle Site were all on the agenda during a packed Friday. The visitors were taken to the Irish National Heritage Park on Saturday morning before being treated to an exhibition of hurling at Bellefield in the afternoon.,
P.S.R.A. Licence No. 002997
available in year 2 and 25% in the third year. In order to qualify for the scheme the property must be vacant for at least one year on the day the application is submitted. Separately the Council is offering incentives for the encouragement of office based business to locate in designated areas of the town. This scheme is specifically aimed at larger office based businesses and is designed to encourage some businesses to locate their headquarters in Wexford. The office incentive scheme mainly covers out of town developments but an exception is to be made in the case of Chelsea House in Distillery Road, Director of Services Tony Larkin told councillors on Monday. Councillors welcomed both schemes but Cllr Deirdre Wadding asked if priority could be given to local businesses, rather than multinationals.
Blackstairs Blues Festival
International Artists and the cream of Irish Blues are promised for Enniscorthy later this month for the 20th Blackstairs Blues Festival. An impressive array of artists have been lined up by the organisers and they will play at a total of thirteen venues during the festival which runs from September 12th to 14th. In all more than thirty six musical events are planned for the festival which as usual promises a feast of
entertainment for ‘blues’ lovers. The Dave McHugh Band, Clive Barnes and Johnny Stewart are just some of the artists who will play the town. Details of the festival were announced at a special reception n in Wilson’s Bar last Friday night. Pictured at the reception were organising committee members John Murphy, Mairead Ennis and Ibar Carty. Full preview of the festival next week.
‘Green’ dog plan to tackle fouling on quayfront As Wexford Council announced the launch of a new scheme to tackle the problem of dogs fouling public areas in Wexford town local councillors suggested that that dog owners should be made criminally liable for the actions of their pets in a bid to stamp out the practice. A recent report highlighted the problem of dog dirt on the quay front in the town and the local authority is now de-
termined to tackle the problem. However, a new ‘green dog’ initiative which will see owners who participate in the scheme given High Vis jackets to identify them as compliant owners should be backed by legal enforcement of penalties on owners whose dog flout regulations according to a number of councillors. Cllr, Anthony Kelly said he had never heard of anyone being penalised de-
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spite the fact that fines of up to €2,000 were in place for a breach of the town by laws. Mayor George Lawlor said the problem was that it was not a criminal offence. If it was the regulations would be more effective, he suggested while Cllr Frank Staples said it was worse than a criminal offence to allow a dog to foul the public areas of the town. He suggested a major local publicity
campaign to tackle the problem. But Cllr. Davy Hynes said it was a problem not confined to the quay front and he had complains about several other areas of the town as well, while Cllr. Jim Moore said rural areas, particularly where new walkways had been developed in recent year were also plagued by the problem.
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An Eye On Gorey by Gavin MacDermott
The Christmas gift that started Chris on the road to RDS Single Launch Up and coming singer/songwriter Chris Brian Gethings is set to release his new single Love-Hate at a launch in the RDS on 25th October. The track will be available for download on iTunes. Although having received air time on local radio and played many a gig in Wexford in the past, an RDS launch is a seemingly huge leap for the young artist. Indeed, it was one serendipitous afternoon’s busking on Gorey’s Main Street several months ago that led Gethings to meet Iris Whelan, producer of the Mrs. Doubtfayre stage production that will be on show in the RDS in October. After pausing to listen to Gethings’ acoustic handiwork, Whelan offered him the part of Mr. Landy in her production right away, and promised to include some of his original material as part of the play’s run. Although bearing a slight difference in spelling, the production is based on the 1993 comedy film of the same name and is dedicated to the memory of the late great Robin Williams, who of course played the titular character in the screen production. After performing a version of Love-Hate for Whelan at a later date, she suggested that
Gethings release it in conjunction with the show. The single was recorded in Gorey Business Park’s Hub Studios by local producer Damian Brady. At present there are no plans to host a single launch in Gorey, Gethings’ hometown. The single will feature on an EP Gethings is hoping to record in the coming months. Gethings’ first venture into the world of music was on the Christmas of his seventh year, when he was in his grandmother’s house. “I was in my nanny’s house for Christmas, we all lived there. There was no real present when I came down the stairs. The present was hidden behind a chair, and sure enough, it was a guitar. That’s what got me started really!” recalls Gethings, who cites Damien Rice, David Gray, Ben Howard and Ed Sheeran among his musical influences. Balancing his love for music with working life comes with its own challenges but Gethings would love for music to become his full time occupation and he is planning to take part in a music course in CIT to further his knowledge and understanding of his passion.
For more details on Chris Brian Gethings music see his Facebook page for details: www.facebook.com/chrisgethingsmusic
to support this great cause. Bui Bolg, a street art performance troupe that transforms and reimagines spaces through spectacular installations and street art performances, will also feature at Party in Pink. There will also be an artisan food marquee, traditional fairground rides for children & face painting. Eric McGuire of McGuire Jewellers on Esmonde Street provided the impetus for the event describing Party in Pink as something that has grown from
a small idea to a “massive street party because of strong support & sponsorship from other local businesses including the Redmond Hotel Group, Sean Doyle & other retailers on Esmonde Street.” Furthermore McGuire would like to stress that “every single cent donated will go directly to the Irish Cancer Society – Action Breast Cancer, as the costs of putting this festival together are being borne entirely by the local sponsors.” Everyone is very much welcome to the first ever Party
Gorey Toastmaster Club reopens on Wednesday, September 3rd, upstairs in The Coach House, at 7.45pm for an 8.00pm start. Described as a learn-bydoing workshop in which participants can hone their speaking and leadership skills in a nopressure atmosphere, the society has something to offer for everyone, from the budding parliamentarian to the individual who merely
wishes to improve their public speaking in general. The meetings are conducted without an instructor, with members engaging in a process of mutual criticism and evaluation. Refreshments will be provided for attendees and the doors are open to all who want a piece of the Toastmaster experience. For further information contact Matty 087 270 6381.
Conradh na Gaeilge Event
Breast Cancer fundraiser for Esmonde Street On Sunday 14th September Esmonde Street Gorey will play host to a Party in Pink, a fundraiser in aid of The Irish Cancer Society’s Action Breast Cancer initiative. From 1.30pm till 10.00pm the road will be festooned with pink balloons and will play host to a selection of live bands including Bourbon Street Jazz Band, Alex Jordan & Co, 5 Dollar Shakes and DJs Paul Hayes, Karl O’Keefe and Tom Low. Also included in the stellar line up are the legendary Tasmanian Dust Devils, who are reforming once more
Toastmasters Return
in Pink and attendees are both welcome and encouraged to wear pink in support of the cause. There is no admittance fee to the festival but people are asked to donate to the bucket collections on the day or they can donate securely through the following link http://www.mycharity. ie/event/partyinpink/ For more information on Party in Pink see www.facebook.com/p artyinpink2014
Conradh na Gaeilge Guaire will host a history tour on Saturday 6th September. Departing from Gorey Library at 9.00am and returning at 6.30pm, the tour will see participants travel to west Wicklow and will give history buffs the opportunity to visit such places as St Kevin’s Way, Glendalough, Glenmalure, entry to Rossborough House
along with other stunning locations in the Garden of Ireland. The cost of the day tour is €20. Anyone interested in booking a place on the excursion can contact Bróna on 087 6407601, or Peadar on 087 936 5000. Alternatively enquiries can be made via email at poconchubhair@gmail.c om.
Thought into Form’ exhibition extended The current exhibition ‘Thought into Form’ at Market House Design, Main Street Gorey, has had a very positive impact and has been extended into September by popular demand. Market House Design is located in the historic Market House building located on Main Street in the heart of Gorey town. The gallery is a space that provides an exhibition venue for
makers to showcase, promote and sell their work. Market House Design houses an eclectic mix of exhibitors and is inclusive of a small coterie of fine art in its inaugural show. There is a focus on works of excellence, as well as the desire to build and add to the artistic and cultural infrastructure in Gorey.
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Ex-Mayors sideline First Citizen and councillors for Barry Day Wexford’s Mayor, Cllr George Lawlor and the sitting members of the local Municipal District Council have been sidelined in spectacular fashion by a group of former Mayors of the town who have come together to organise a ceremony to honour Commandent John Barry on Wexford quays later this month. The Barry Day commemoration was one of the key dates in the annual calendar of the old Wexford Borough Council
but the event did not take place this June. When the ceremony didn’t take place a group of former mayors decided to organise the event themselves and they contacted the US embassy and uniformed bodies inviting them to take part. However, the ceremony was organised without any contact being made with the current town Mayor or the Wexford Municipal District Council. The current councillors are furious over the staging of
what is being described in some quarters as a ‘provisional’ ceremony at the Barry Statue. No one knows who cancell4ed the annual formal event back in June. That’s according to Mayor Lawlor who told Cllr. Davy Hynes at a meeting of the Council on Monday that he had no idea who ordered its cancellation. He said he had no contact with those who were organising the event later this month. The decision not to make con-
tact with the First Citizen was described as disgraceful by Cllr. Hynes. Mayor Lawlor said next year’s Barry Day had already been planned for June 21st, but he said he would not be at the ceremony taking place on Sunday week. He told Cllr. Anthony Kelly that he had made his views on the ceremony known after Cllr. Kelly said the staging of the event was a slight on the Mayor and councillors.
Build Your Business event Build Your Business takes place this Friday 5th September from 9am-10am in Gorey Business Park. The Guest Speaker this month will be Kilian Duignan, from Enterprise Management Resource. Kilian’s will speak on “What Not To Do for Small/Medium Business!” Build Your Business is a great opportunity to Network, Meet New &Existing Business People whose aim is to create and form new business contacts. This networking event is sponsored by Gorey Business Park and is organised by Gorey Chamber
Take to the skies over
Wexford!
086-3524305
www.recreationalflyingclub.blogspot.com
Gift Vouchers From €65 Enjoying themselves at the Taghmon airstrip last Sunday were Aidan Power, Conor O’Leary, Charles O’Shea, Peter McCleane, Peter Tawse, Noel Maher and Ken Townsend.
18 S th tar Au ts gu st
Flying high at the ILAS airfield in Ardinagh Have you ever wondered what it would be like to fly a light aeroplane? Well now you can find out. Flying from Ardinagh in Wexford, the Recreational Flying Club provides air experience flights and training towards a pilot licence. For many, aviation is about airlines and airports, delays, queues and frustration. However for a growing number it’s about a day in the country enjoying spectacular landscapes and cloudscapes aboard light aircraft. Flying is also the best antidote to the stress of modern living and is more accessible and affordable than ever before. ILAS airfield at Ardinagh is home to the Irish Light Aviation Society and the Recreational Flying Club. Both organisations are dedicated to the promotion of sport flying. This includes Standard, Classic and Vintage aircraft, amateur built aircraft and the provision of facilities for teaching people to fly. Aerial touring, soaring and aerobatics. It’s all part of an exciting recreational and educational activity that is now on offer in Wexford. It all starts with an ‘Air experience’ flight with the Recreational Flying Club in their two seat training aircraft. You
receive a 30 minute ‘pre-flight’ briefing during which your instructor explains how planes fly and answers any questions you may have about flying. This is followed with a 20 minute flight over Wexford with its spectacular landscape. On a clear day you can see from the Comeragh Mountains in West Waterford to the Dublin Mountains and even the Welsh coast! An air experience flight makes the ideal gift and could be the start of a lifelong recreational interest or even a career in aviation. With one or two limitations, flying is available to everyone. Provided you are 15 or more (under 18’s require parental
consent) and under 100kg in weight, you can fly. So what about costs. A 20 minute air experience flight including a half hour pre-flight briefing costs just €65. Gift vouchers for air experience flights are available from the Club’s website: www.recreationalflyingclub.blogspot.com For those who can’t resist the call of the sky, the cure is to join the Club and fly whenever time, weather and finances allow. To get a better idea of what the Club is all about, please follow the club on: www.facebook.com/recreationalflyingclub
Choral Society Thinking of taking up something new this autumn, feel like a challenge and variety? , Enniscorthy Choral Society in its 21st year might just be for you, the four part choir returns to Colaiste Bride on Monday the 8th September 8pm. The choir of 40 plus members is heading to Sligo International Choral festival in November and
prides itself on the variety of music it performs. Why not come in on Monday 8th September at 9.pm, contact us via www.enniscorthychoralsoci ety.com, or contact Annette McCarthy/ John B. O’Leary on 0539233547 and if you’re interested in joining us stay for a brief audition that evening.
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Kehoe welcomes good news for two Wexford schools Minister Paul Kehoe TD, Government Chief Whip has welcomed the news that St Joseph’s NS, Bree and Gorey Educate Together have been granted funding from the Department of Education to build new classrooms, learning support rooms and a staff room. Speaking on the news, Minister Kehoe said; “I am pleased that funding has been granted for a new classroom and a new learning support room in St Joseph’s NS, Bree and an early intervention classroom and a staff room for Gorey Educate Together. It is another sign of this Government’s continued commitment to building new classrooms, schools and substantial school extensions across County Wexford. I want to congratulate the principals of the both schools, Gerry Moran in Bree and Raymond Swan in Gorey, their staff, the parents and the Boards of Management in each school. “This comes on the back of the news that a contractor has been selected for the multi million euro extension to St Aidan’s NS in Enniscorthy that will be worth an estimated €7.5 million and construction will begin next week. The multi-million euro extension of Colaiste Abbain in Adamstown is also under development.
“There have been dozens of new classrooms built across the County in the past two years, as this Government has responded directly with capital investment to the baby boom that will see school populations increase in the coming years . There was under investment in our education infrastructure for
many years under previous Governments. This was seen that with the proliferation of prefab classrooms across the country, these are now being actively replaced and we are investing in our children and our future here in County Wexford”.
Party time at The Bailey It was party time too on Friday night when Damien Doyle celebrated his 40th birthday. It was a real family occasion for Damian of Ashbrook, Enniscorthy, who celebrated with a party
in The Bailey. Pictured above from left Damien’s Gran, Mary; his father Pat; Damien, Amelia, Ciara, Amanda and his mother Anna May Doyle
Birthday bash for Niamh It was party time in Enniscorthy on Saturday night when Niamh Hennessey celebrated her 21st birthday. Niamh was joined by family and friends in the Bellefield GAA Complex for her big night. She is pictured here with some of the friends
who joined her on the night. Pictured on left Annie Byrne, Micheala Kavanagh, Poppy Deakins, Chloe Ennis, Niamh Hennessy, the birthday girl, Denise Brophy, Neasa O Brien, Eibhlin O Keeffe and Jenna Eustace.
Stand Tall, Walk Talk with Leinster Taekwon Do Bruce Lee once said “To me, the extraordinary aspect of martial arts lies in its simplicity. The easy way is also the right way” Taekwon Do was first developed in the 1940’s and combines combat and self-defence with sport and exercise. Taekwon Do as a martial art is popular with both men and women of all ages. It is world recognised as a sport that develops strength, speed, balance, flexibility, and stamina with major physical benefits for participants. Leinster expert Tom Thornton of TKD, is eager to also point out that for those involved, in particular the chil-
dren they coach the emotional and social benefits cannot be underestimated. Tom told The Chronicle that this special form of martial arts aims to build self -confidence, train children in self-discipline and fosters a healthy sense of self -esteem. This is indeed a positive message, this fun and health activity could work well as a simple solution to counteract the negative impact to children of bullying and in particular cyber bullying brought into the spotlight in recent times. TKD feel that if a child or young adult has a strong sense of self and feels confident
enough to face the stresses of everyday life they are less likely to succumb to peer pressure or feel powerless at the hands of bullies. Self-defence is above all about empowering both children and adults by allowing them to flourish as healthy individuals, emotionally, mentally and physically. TKD Leinster Taekwon Do are also very committed to bringing the fun and enthusiasm into martial arts and Tom and Caroline were keen to highlight the benefits of the social aspect of their classes. They both gladly invite all new participants to try the first class
for free. The classes are held in Arklow, Enniscorthy, Gorey and Riverchapel and are open to anyone from age five upwards. TDK also offer primary and secondary schools private self-defence classes that can be organised all year round. TKD host various events, summer camps and competitions throughout the year promising a fun day out for all the family. For more information please call Tom Thornton on 086 3862020 email Tomthornton.tkd@gmail.com or Caroline Nugent on 087 672 1843 or visit www.ltkd.ie
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The
Chronicle September 03, 2014
Plus Size Fashion arrives to Gorey WARDROBE+ HAS ARRIVED In recent times the body image debate has run to extremes and absurd extremes perhaps. It seems from the zealous size zero campaigners to the constant media coverage of what ‘real women’ should look like we have been endlessly bombarded with messages of what size we should and should not be. The Chronicle wishes to stay out of this controversy and simply state a simple truth that in reality women everywhere come in all shapes and sizes and each woman deserves to feel beautiful and look gorgeous in clothes that compliment them. The media frenzy surrounding the latest idea of the ‘perfect body can become tiresome and off the point. It would appear the common sense approach would be to learn to love and dress the body you have got so you can feel positive in your daily life, confident and self-assured. It is with this in mind that we are delighted to welcome to Gorey, Wardrobe+, the new plus size women’s shop on 12 Esmonde Street. Wardrobe+ is the brainchild of Aine O Leary, an Enniscorthy woman who is no stranger to fashion having grown up around it all her life. Aine originally opened a store in Wicklow twenty three years ago and began to notice that she had to turn away women who came in at size sixteen plus. It was then Aine began to explore the idea of plus size
fashion. Aine felt that she could use her love of fashion and dressing women but this time specialise in the same styles as the 10-16 range yet focus solely on women were size 16-30. This proved so popular that she then opened Wardrobe+ in Ashford last year to resounding success. Gorey is already a popular fashion destination for men and women all over the country with many beautiful boutiques along Esmonde Street and Main Street. It is a positive step that Gorey can now cater for the curvier women with the delightful addition of Wardrobe+. The style of Wardrobe+ is very much trendy with the focus on smart casual. They stock over twenty ranges of clothing along with a huge array of stunning costume jewellery at very reasonable prices. The collection also includes fabulous tunics
and knits, an excellent brand of slim leg stretch trousers in three different leg lengths and an autumn winter day wear selection of dresses and skirts that will cater to all fashion tastes. When Aine spoke to The Chronicle she told us that she is thrilled to have new shop in Gorey, She was warm in her praise of the town and of her dedicated team of staff who greatly contribute to the smooth running of the store. Her message to all her new customers is that she believes that anything is possible in fashion. She has full faith in her product and was excited to tell us that she feels there is no longer limited choice for the curvier woman. We can safely say that Aine is happily confident she will not be turning anyone away disappointed.
Aine O’Leary, proprietor of Wardrobe+ with some of the lovely garments on display
Accessories of quality to match the outfit of your choice.
Wardrobe + is located at 12 Esmonde Street Tel. 053 9483675 www.facebook.com/wardrobeplus
Ladies’ Plus Size Fashions sizes 16 to 28 Above and below the extensive range of garments on display in Wardrobe+
Specialists in smart casual daywear. Autumn collection now in store No 12 Upper Esmonde Street Gorey Co Wexford Phone - 053 948 3675
www.Facebook.com/wardrobeplus
The
Chronicle September 03, 2014
8
GER WALSH Is jobs recovery bypassing the South East The recession is beginning to lift, there are more people at work, confidence in the economy is increasing, fewer people are emigrating, house prices are beginning to recover and the State’s finances are improving. It reads like a speech by Enda Kenny at an Ard Fheis, but that’s the factual picture in the country right now. Things are certainly turning a corner. However, the problem for many people is that any feel good factor which might be associated with the improving situation is difficult for them to appreciate given the amount of battering they have taken in recent years. As I said last week people are now really looking to the budget in October for real evidence that things can improve in their own personal lives. The latest economic statistics were all good and can only add to the public expectation that there will be genuine relief for taxpayers next month. While the numbers at work across the country have dramatically increased the position in the South East is pretty dismal with this region now suffering from the highest unemployment levels in the country. There are several factors
influencing this number, not least a very difficult economic situation in Waterford but the fact that the entire region finds itself in such a position is worrying. The tourism sector locally has enjoyed a very good year, helped by a number of factors not least the good weather and the strength of sterling which encouraged many more British visitors to travel to Ireland. However, the previous heavy reliance of Co. Wexford on construction sector employment has dealt the area a really heavy jobs blow. While the service sector is moving forward and creating new employment opportunities an uplift in construction is vital if a serious dent is to be put in the county’s unemployment situation. Some of those jobs will come from the construction of projects like the new Wexford Courthouse and Garda Station in addition to the Enniscorthy and New Ross bypasses.
All these projects are at an advanced stage of planning and it is vital that they are kick started as quickly as possible. In addition any incentive aimed at the construction industry nationally would be a big help to Wexford. During the boom years literally hundreds if not thousands of Wexford workers travelled each week to construction sites in Dublin, so any national uplift in building would automatically benefit Wexford. All sectors will be trying to convince the government of the merits at targeting incentives at their particular areas but construction is certainly one area where jobs
could be generated very rapidly. The hospitality sector has enjoyed the benefits of reduced levels of VAT for a number of years and has now substantially recovered. Many people have suggested that this relief should be ended because the major beneficiaries at this stage are foreign investors who purchased bankrupt Irish hotels over the past few years. Rather than pocketing the cash from the ending of this relief the government should use the money to boost other sectors that have the potential to create jobs quickly and construction projects would certainly qualify under this heading.
Enniscorthy residents deserve clarity on flood plan
Why not just celebrate benefits of Bucket Challenge
There has been a bit of noise recently about the delay in starting work on the Flood Relief Scheme in Enniscorthy. That’s the scheme which involves building big walls along the banks of the Slaney to keep the water behind them rather than flowing into people’s homes when the level of the river rises as it does a number of times each year. The whole debate about the scheme went on for years with various arguments about how it would lock and whether or not it would spoil the beauty of the town. However, I’m sure the people who have had their homes destroyed by flooding in the past were always more interested in keeping the water out of
It’s amazing the way in which the Ice Bucket Challenge took off all around the world, not least here in Co. Wexford. It was fun to see so many people taking part and doing it with such good humour. I say fair dues to them all and it was a fun way to raise money for a very important charity. However, I have just two bones to pick. Some people who did the challenge seemed to have forgotten that it was all about raising money for charity and perhaps they should get on their facebook pages again to urge people to donate the cash. The second thing, and this really annoyed me, was a column in a national newspaper which ranted on about why it was really the job of government to provide
their sitting rooms than admiring the beauty of the river banks on a sunny day. Anyway after all the debate the project is now ready to go, or at least it should be. A project manager has been appointed already but no start date has been announced. Government TDs would do well to ensure that a formal start date is written in stone before the start of the winter because a bad storm, high tides and flooding in Enniscorthy would not be pleasant for any government representative if the Flood Relief Works appear to still be on the long finger.
the cash for important charities like Motor Neuron Ireland and it should not be left to charity events like the Ice Bucket Challenge. But there will always be a place for charity fundraising events even if the members of the government had cash coming out of their collective ears, because you can never do enough for people who have been affected by such a dreadful illness. Indeed, it could also be said that if some of those very wealthy individuals who have substantial business and other interests in this country but who are non residents when it comes to paying tax here were actually resident in Ireland and paying their full taxes here there would be a lot more money for all charities, not just Motor Neuron.
United don’t need any added ‘fear factor’ Man United go out and break the British transfer record to sign Di Maria and expect that they will dominate the headlines for all the right reasons for at least a week. Two hours later they are knocked out of the Capital One Cup by MK Dons and suddenly their record breaking transfer deal is related to a footnote. There is a saying that things could always be worse, but in terms of sporting outcomes it’s hard to see how things could get any worse. They are already being written out of this
year’s Premiership; they are not in the Champions League and are gone from the Capital One Cup. Only the FA Cup remains as a possible source of silverware. After last week’s defeat Van Gaal said his new £60m signing would restore the fear factor. He didn’t say fear in who or what, but there is no need to instil any new fear in United fans these days--------they are afraid of the outcome every day the players take to the field.
A tall story to avoid jail Jude Medcalf avoided a jail term for stealing food and Christmas presents from an NHS office in the UK not because of any great plea for mercy from his lawyer, or because of his previous good record. Twenty three years old Jude didn’t go to prison because he was too tall. Yes a judge ordered his release from prison
because 7ft Jude was too tall for standard prison beds and uniforms. Metcalf suffers from Klinefelter Syndrome, a growth disorder. Next thing people will be trying to avoid jail because they are too shy, or too tiny. Any excuse tip the balance in favour of the criminal.
A case of a Judge speaking before engaging their brain Sometimes you really have to worry about the mindset of people who sit as judges both here and in the UK. The latest bizarre observation came from a female judge in Britain who said that convictions for rape would not rise until women drank less. Sixty six year old Judge Mary Jane Mowat, who was based at Oxford Court, said it was difficult to secure convictions because women could not be sure of what had
happened because of the amount of alcohol they had consumed. In an interview she said: I will be pilloried for saying so, but the rape conviction statistics will not improve until women stop getting so drunk’ What a crass thing to say Judge Mary Jane may be living in cloud cuckoo land when it comes to most things, but she was spot on when she suggested that she would be pilloried for making the comments.
9
The
Celebration time as Shaws mark 150 years in business
Chronicle September 03, 2014
CELEBRATE THE VALUE BUY
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Shaws landmark store on Main Street, Wexford This year, Shaws Department Stores celebrates a very major milestone – 150 years in business. As one of Ireland’s leading retailers, Shaws sees over half a million customer visits to their stores every month and almost 1,000 people are employed across their 17 stores. To this day, the company remains family-owned and the current Managing Director, Jonathan Shaw, is among the fourth generation of the Shaw family to work in the business. The company’s focus is on retailing of branded products in a friendly, modern and serviceorientated environment. It all started for Shaws in 1864 when Henry Shaw established a small drapery store in Mountmellick. As business grew to include stores in Portlaoise and Athy, Shaws was registered as a private limited company in 1934. The Managing Director at that time was Sam Shaw, Jonathan Shaw’s grandfather. By the mid-1970s,
Shaws had added stores in Waterford, Carlow, Roscrea, Fermoy and Limerick. In 1976, Shaws acquired Haddens Limited as a going concern, with its stores in Wexford, Dungarvan and Carlow being rebranded under the Shaws name. The 1980s and 1990s saw stores opened in Dun Laoghaire and Tralee. The period 2003 to 2008 saw the most rapid expansion of Shaws’ operations at any time in its history with the investment of over €50 million into the business producing new stores in Wexford, Carlow, Castlebar, Drogheda and Ballina. There was also extensive refurbishment of other stores and the move to a new head office. Following 5 years of consolidation in the teeth of the global recession, 2013 saw the opening of a new store in Longford. 2013 also saw a link to the earliest days of the business come to an end with the sale of the old Portlaoise premises after 109 years of continuous trading following the move to a superb new
20,000 sq. ft. store elsewhere in the town. In a recent interview, Jonathan Shaw noted, “The success of Shaws today is based on many factors. There’s the strong tradition we inherit of focussing on customer service and of retailing quality products and brands while offering great value. This has created a loyal customer base, many of whom have grown up with Shaws at the heart of their shopping experience. “Another factor is how our offering has adapted and evolved. An example of this is the very successful integration of leading concession brands into the business, primarily in the womenswear category, such as Dorothy Perkins, Wallis, Jacques Vert, Eastex, Top Shop and Evans to name but a few. These concessions complement our ownbuy offering, which still accounts for 75% of our revenues overall. “Finally, I would highlight our people at all levels as a
source of competitive advantage. Our staff at the “coal face” are knowledgeable and are, I believe, genuinely interested in our customers. Our management and buyers are constantly taking initiatives, be they large or small, to move the business forward.” Shaws 150thAnniversary celebrations kick off on the weekend of Friday 5th September with a “Buy 1 Get 1 Half Price” event. On Saturday 13th and 20th September watch out for 150th Anniversary Parties in all stores incorporating lots of family fun and instore special offers. Shaws will also release 150 gold balloons, with 150 prizes attached, from each of their 17 stores. Finally, to end the 150th Anniversary celebrations, Shaws will have 150 special offers in every store for the weekend of Friday 26th September.
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The
Chronicle September 03, 2014
10
Schooltime traffic chaos in Bridgetown A local Councillor says that the build up of traffic in the village of Bridgetown at school times as a result of the lack of parking for students and parents must be managed to avoid congestion and accidents. Cllr Mick Roche has already spoken to council engineers and intends to raise the issue at the next meeting of Wexford County Council as well as with the Department of Education if necessary. “The flow of traffic through Bridgetown during school drop off and pick up times has been a difficulty during recent years,” Cllr Roche said, “This has been compounded by even less availability of parking for
staff and students this year due to ongoing construction work at the school. Not only is the public road being clogged and the entrance to local estates being blocked, but students are being endangered as no proper pedestrian crossings or footpaths opposite the school exist.” “This issue has come about due to the complete lack of planning in the development of Bridgetown during the boom years. New housing estates were built and the school was enlarged for the obvious expanded population but yet no thought of traffic management or resources went into the process. At the time the sitting council were happy enough to let the place be built
WexWorlds festival is on the way back WexWorlds is coming back in February 2015! WexWorlds is a festival celebrating all things Sci-Fi, Fantasy and Comic book related. Originally running from 2009 – 2011 the festival had a number of great events and guests including the local talents of Eoin Colfer (Artemis Fowl) and Nick Roche (Transformers). The event will last for three days and the organisers
up without the necessary infrastructure in place and now we are reaping the problems.” “New parking facilities and a designated safe drop off and pick up zone must be provided at Bridgetown Vocational. As many students walk to the nearby shops it is also essential that pedestrian crossings at key points are provided.” “The entrances to local estates will have to be kept opened and unblocked at all times. Double parking on the road adjacent to the school cannot continue without adequate traffic management being put in place. I will be asking for the provision of emergency measures including
Councillor Mick Roche the introduction of temporary school traffic wardens until more permanent actions can be taken.”
Video trailer for Wexford author’s new book A Wexford author has combined with a new local boutique film production house to blaze a trail with the latest publishing phenomenon a video book trailer. Believed to be one of the first book trailers in the country, this mini film is for author Carmel Harringtonâ's ˜The Life You Left'and has been put together by Killurinbased Strawberry Films. A book trailer is a relatively new concept here and allows authors to give readers a glimpse of their
book in the ever-visual online world that we now live in. Jo Nesbo and Irving Welsh are among the best-selling authors using this device to set the scene for their latest novels. Some of the scenes for ˜The Life You Left™ were filmed at the beautiful Raven near Curracloe and it is hoped that the trailer will bring the stunning Wexford scenery to an appreciative international audience. Author Harrington, who has a contract with global publishing giants Harper
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Collins, said: Strawberry Films have created a book trailer worthy of any of the big publishing houses. It is professional, visual and very watchable. There is so much about it that I love. 'Video book trailers are very much the next big thing in book publishing and I'm thrilled to be able to showcase The Life You Left in this way' You can view the new
book trailer on www.carmelharrington.com. Strawberry Films specialise in promotional and wedding films.
are planning to have many spectacles and activities for all to join in on. The festival will have comic book artists from around Ireland, gaming events, panels, lectures, competitions and even Cosplay events! The festival organisers are seeking volunteers for the organizing committee, if you are interested in all things nerdy drop us an email at info@wexworlds.net or check us out on Facebook. Watch this space!
Rosslare Garda posts are filled Two new Gardai have been appointed to important posts in South Wexford. There has been concern for some time about vacant Garda posts in both Rosslare Harbour and Rosslare Strand but now a new Sergeant has been appointed to Rosslare Harbour and a vacant position in the Strand has also been filled. Independent County Councillor Ger Carthy has welcomed the recent appointments. Having highlighted the depleting numbers of Gardai across South Wexford some months ago and following his representation on behalf of his
constituents, Cllr Carthy said these recent appointments go some way to addressing Garda numbers across south Wexford. He praised senior Garda Management for their foresight in sanctioning these appointments and encourage them to look favourably on the area going forward. Cllr Carthy would like to welcome Sergeant Colm O’Leary and Garda John Coughlan to their new posts and wish them well as they join two very pro-active members of the force in Rosslare Harbour.
Wexford Drama Group audition for The Seafarer
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The summer season is just about to end and the evenings haven’t even closed in yet, but already Wexford Drama Group are turning their thoughts to Springtime and their February 2015 production of The Seafarer. The Group will be holding auditions for its February production and All Ireland Drama Festival circuit play this Friday, September 5 from 7:30 p.m. in the Presentation Secondary School, Wexford. The group will take on The Seafarer by Irish playwright Conor McPherson which will be directed by Thomas O’Leary. There are roles for five men
ranging in age from 30 up to 70. The play tells the story of Sharky and his recently blind brother Richard who welcome friends to their Dublin home at Christmas time, for a drinkfuelled game of cards. Among them is Mr. Lockhart who has an old score to settle with Sharky and intends to collect on his debt that very night. As it happens, Sharkey may in fact be playing for his very soul. For more information or to get a copy of the script, contact 086 3859 925 or log on to www.wexforddramagroup.com
11
The
Chronicle September 03, 2014
Park Picnic brings the curtain down on a glorious Wexford summer Summer’s over, the schools are reopening, the nights are closing in but there was still time for one last taste of Summer in Wexford at the weekend. The occasion was the Picnic in the Park at Redmond Park where there was a host of family fun and entertainment on Sunday afternoon. The event had been billed as one to celebrate the formal end of summer and it
was really very dependent on the weather to be a success. The omens did not look good on a few occasions last week when rain and winds lashed Wexford. However, on Sunday all was well as the weather brightened one final time at the end of what has been a marvellous summer for outdoor events and Redmond Park played host to a spectacularly successful event.
Hundreds of families came with their blankets and picnic baskets and grabbed a space to enjoy the family focused entertainment. From music to puppets and all the usual treats you normally associate with a smashing day out, Redmond Park had it all. There was a tremendous atmosphere for the afternoon as children and adults enjoyed the show.
By teatime it was time to turn down the music, pack up the picnic baskets and head for home in the sad knowledge that it would likely be nearly the middle of 2015 before the weather is kind enough again to allow Wexford families to take off for the day to Redmond Park for a picnic day out. But wasn’t it great while it lasted!
Willie Bourke, Rihanna Bourke, Jasmine Ouadas and new puppy at the Picnic in the Park.
A group of children posed on the new Giant Park Bench at the Picnic in the Park in Redmond Park on Sunday.
Maureen Murphy, Eleanor and Lucy Geoghan enjoying the last day of summer Picnic In The Park at Redmond Park.
Photos by Pat Sheridan Large crowd of children enjoying the puppet show at the Picnic in the Park in Redmond Park.
The
Chronicle September 03, 2014
12
Lifestyle
AE &
Comment, Music, Gossip, Fashion, What’s Hot, What’s Not, Who’s Hot, Who’s Not, Adam
Introduction
So, that’s just about summer over! On the plus side, I’ve another month left while all you are back in school or college, which is sweeeeeet! Eoin’s back from Creamfields too which means I’ve less to do! Thank God August is over and things are starting to get a bit quieter. Again, thanks for reading and all the lovely messages and tweets and stuff! Hope you enjoy.
CONNECT WITH US! As I’ve said already a few times, Eoin is away in England. On the plus side, he promised to record all the shananagans he gets up to and put it on Snapchat over this week. So make sure to add him. And me actually, just because I’m a nice chap! Snapchat: ilovecider & adam_ennis Facebook: /adamjayennis94 & eoinhealy.9 Twitter: I_Rant_A_Lot & EtekOfficial
Hot-Beyoncé This week, Beyoncé received the Michael Jackson Vanguard award for her achievements in entertainment and gave a wonderful, 20 minute performance with basically every song off her album. To make her flawless performance even better, Jay-Z presented the star with the award with their daughter Blue Ivy joining the couple on stage to quash and rumour of divorce.
Not- Tiesto My idol/favourite person in the whole world let all his fans down by cancelling his headline show at Creamfields. He gave the reason of a cancelled flight, even though he was using his own private jet, so I don’t know how that works. He had 2 shows to play in Las Vegas, so you think he would’ve just been honest. I had the great honour of being the “Not” in last week’s paper as I forgot to tell Adam I was going away, so thanks for that! Hahaha
Adam Ennis
Rant of the Week
It’s been a while since the last one and things have been really boiling up. With the soccer starting back, I thought this one would be fitting. It’s definitely something we’re going to see a lot of over the next few months. It’s people who argue about soccer on Facebook as if it actually affects them. Shut up like! You don’t play for Liverpool, so stop freaking out when someone gives an opinion on them that you don’t agree with! It has never, nor will it ever actually impact on your life, so go back to drinking pints at 12 O’ Clock on a Wednesday morning. If people are actually argumentative enough to be shouting and screaming every time someone says something about “their club” would they not go off, look into something that will actually affect them and use their energy for a bit of good? It’s a total waste of time. No matter how much you argue with the other person, you’re not going to change their opinion on “their club”. They’re not going to come to the realisation that in fact, after all these years, they were wrong and your club is actually better. So stop wasting each other’s time, and everyone else’s and get back to watching the sport instead of getting involved in the politics of it, when realistically, you have no idea what’s actually going on. Capisce?
TUNE OF THE WEEK Megan Trainor – All About That Bass
There’s not really much competition this week! Quality song in fairness though. No doubt it’s all over the radio this week! Go have a listen if you haven’t heard it already
13 Lifestyle
The
Where to Be Seen, Where To Avoid, Who’s Celebrating, Who’s Not
Eoin Healy
Eoin
Chronicle September 03, 2014
AE &
Useless fact of the week
If you yelled (at the average 88dB) for 8 years, 7 months and 6 days, you would have produced enough sound energy to heat one cup of coffee. So, if you run out of electricity and want a hot cup of coffee you know what to do!!
Ate Slept Raved Repeated So, I was off on my travels this week to the UK to attend one of Europe’s biggest dance music festivals, Creamfields. I’ve been to 3 Oxegen music festivals in Ireland where you would be half-afraid to even sleep at night with some of the people there! From having random chaps going to the toilet on your tent to seeing people floating around with knives in their hand I’ve seen it all. Creamfields was nothing like that. If you’re there, you’re there because you love the music – not to cause trouble. Leeds music festival is just down the road attracting a rock and pop-based crowd. This suited just fine because it got rid of all the posers who claim to love all forms of
dance music, when really they have no interest! Words can’t describe how amazing it was to witness the biggest DJs from around the world at one of the best dancescenes in Europe. From Armin Van Buuren, to Fat Boy Slim, to Calvin Harris and Hardwell, Creamfields had you covered! The Irish and Scottish accounted for most of the crowd with some Norwegian, Swedish, Icelandic and Israeli thrown in too! I can’t give enough praise to the crowd security and police over there. They were absolutely top notch, and there to help all weekend! Whereas, at Oxegen, it’s basically a free-for-all in the campsites. The highlight of my weekend
has to be standing on someone’s shoulders (yep, standing) while Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike bounced around on stage. The best surprise of the whole thing was definitely Avicii’s set. I wouldn’t be overly fond of his music, but I went to see him anyway and I’m not one bit disappointed. His set was absolutely banging from start to finish! It was unbelievable to watch fireworks flying above our heads as he killed the decks. I will 100% be back next year! The whole weekend was unforgettable and I’m just waiting until next year to be back among the madness! Without a doubt, I’d recommend it to anyone who is into that sort of music!
This week’s snap comes from Wexford’s very own legend! Some say the John Barry statue is going to be replaced by a statue of this man. Legend has it the only way to heaven is by kissing this man’s forehead. It’s, of course, the one and only Corey Ennis. What a man!
As always keep sending your snaps on to ilovecider and adam_ennis and we’ll pick the best one(s). Eoin
Snapchat: ilovecider & adam_ennis
Facebook: /adamjayennis94 & eoinhealy.9 Twitter: I_Rant_A_Lot & EtekOfficial
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Chronicle September 03, 2014
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SERVICES Sandra Tomkins
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WEIGHT LOSS
Chronicle September 03, 2014
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The
Chronicle September 03, 2014
16
News
Gannets
Gannets
Noel captures the splendour of the Puffin and Razorbill on the Saltees The Saltee Islands are just a stone’s throw from the Wexford coast, yet many Wexford people have never set foot on them. The islands, clearly visible from the quayside in Kilmore, are just a short boat trip from the quayside. It’s amazing
Guillemot
really that more locals have not ventured to explore the real beauty of the Islands and their wildlife. It is the wildlife, and birds in particular, which fascinate most visitors to the Islands and many people come from various parts of the world to
observe their beauty. Here we get a little glimpse of the striking images which some of the wildlife present to visitors to the Saltees. The wonderful photos of the wildlife on the island are by Noel Reddy whose impressive images capture the real beauty
of the birds. Noel’s pictures feature Puffins and Razorbills. The razorbill is a colonial seabird that only comes to land in order to breed. The agile bird chooses just one partner for life and females lay one egg per year.
Guillemots
They nest along coastal cliffs in exposed or slightly exposed crevices. The Puffin has a light coloured beak during the breeding season and are note4d for flying low over the ocean’s surface and they beat their wings rapidly, often up to
four hundred times per minute when in swift flight. At the end of the breeding season they shed their colourful outer parts of their bills, leaving a smaller duller beak.
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The
Chronicle September 03, 2014
Viking Life celebrated on ‘Town Wall Day’ Many people believe that the historic nature of the old Town Wall in Wexford could be used much more aggressively as a tourist attraction. Much of it was restored over recent decades and a considerable amount of it is now accessible to the public. Yet there is a feeling that the town just doesn’t
fully utilise what could be a major tourist attraction if a more co-ordinated approach was adopted to making the Town Wall a centre piece of activities for visitors. However, on one day of the year the Wall is the centre of all attention. That is Town Wall Day which this year was held on Sunday last when free
events for all the family were hosted on The Green at Abbey Street. The event featured reenactments of Viking and Medieval Life as well as a history of Viking Wexford and a range of activities for children. There were walking tours of the Town Wall, an exhibition on the history and archaeology of
Wexford town and staff from The Heritage Park ran a workshop which shed a little light on daily life in the 10th century. Unfortunately the event clashed with the nearby Picnic in Redmond Park and this reduced the attendance at the festivities.
Damien Busher from the Nat’ Heritage Park demonstrating a ‘cow horn’ at the Town Wall Day in Abbey st Wexford.
St. Pats are Leinster Pitch and Putt Champs St. Patrick’s Pitch and Putt Club Enniscorthy continued it’s successful season when their Junior team ,representing Wexford ,became the first winners of the inaugural Leinster Inter County Team Championship, a six man strokeplay event held recently at Athgarvan, Co. Kildare. To round off a spectacular day, the club also supplied all the team which took the bronze medals in the Intermediate equivalent on the same day at the same course. What makes the success all the more unbelievable is the fact that all the players are from the St. Patrick’s club which is the only one in Co. Wexford and has to compete with other counties which have far more clubs , the obvious ones being Dublin with 17 and Meath with 14. The Junior team consisted of Aidan O’Brien, Mark Kirwan, Glenn Fortune, Aidan Whelan, Ruairi
Fortune and Richard Grannell whose total score was some 13 strokes ahead of Meath in second spot. In the Intermediate event the club (and county) was represented by Gavin Kenny, Shane Redmond, Aaron Moorehouse, Kevin Doyle, Jimbob Kirwan and last minute substitute Stephen Kirwan who stepped in to make up the team following a late withdrawal. This team finished in a tie for second only dropping to third as a result of a countback which meant that they took home bronze instead of silver. It was an outstanding day for the club and county by both teams under the management of Dean Grannell and proved that preparation is the key to success with all players having practiced on the course in the weeks leading up to the event. Many congratulations are due to everyone involved in this history making achievement.
Ivan Erskine, Ziggy Mc Govern, Ruby Monaghan, Reece Monaghan enjoying the demonstrations at the Town Wall Day in Abbey Street.
Photos by Pat Sheridan
Magic score for Paul Last week’s strokeplay event at St. Patrick’s Pitch and Putt Club, Enniscorthy was an outstanding success for one of the club’s scratch players Paul Tobin , when he shot a wonderful 11 under par score of 43 on a very difficult evening with strong winds playing havoc with most competitors scorecards. This 43 nett return was enough to win the overall event and set the longest serving members of the club
on a quest to find out the last time that a scratch player had won a club event at the Parnell Avenue track. Well done Paul on a great win on a very bad evening. John Tyrrell took the runner up spot some two shots back with a good nett 45 and the gross prize went to Willie Hudson with a very fine score of 48. This week’s competition returns to the Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. sharp.
Two lovely young ladies, Taillte Doyle and Aoibhin Cashman enjoying an ancient game of Taffle at the Town Wall Day.
Clair Horgan demonstrating spinning wheel technique with a ‘drop spindle’ at the Town Wall Day in Abbey st Wexford.
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Chronicle September 03, 2014
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Sport
LARRY O’GORMAN The man who gets Behind the Sports Headlines
Why I think Tipp can tame the Cats on this occasion Well folks next Sunday is the big day for all hurling fans. It has been a great hurling season and our lads contributed in no small way to all the excitement of the summer. The pairing of Kilkenny and Tipperary is a rather traditional one with two of the strongholds of hurling coming to the fore in the end. But you can’t say I didn’t tell you so and I did it right here on these pages before the championship even started.
Tipperary’s Lar Corbett
I know some of you think that I wouldn’t pick my nose but after the league final I couldn’t have been clearer. I said then that we would see these two teams again in the All Ireland final. And that is exactly how it has turned out, even if there were a few twists and turns along the way. Now I think we can look forward to a cracker of a final between two very strong teams who have met so often in the last few years that they probably know each other better than they do their wives or girlfriends. That means that there will be few surprises that either manager can spring on the day. The tactics, strengths and weaknesses will all be well known and when you add it all up there is very little likely to separate the teams in the end. Off the field I think it would be fair to say that these counties can’t stand each other and that has all to do with bragging rights in terms of
numbers of All Irelands won and the like. But on the field of play they have the height of respect for each other and both sets of players will be prepared to put their lives on the line in search of another All Ireland They simply will not give an inch and boy will it be tough and physical out there. I’ll tell you what some of those guys who have been changing hands Kilkenny’s Henry Sheffli in England for tens of millions They always fancy a crack at the Cats and of pounds wouldn’t last ten minutes out there. they will take a lot of satisfaction from stopKilkenny will look to the likes of J J Deping King Henry from getting his tenth medal laney, Jackie Tyrell, T J Reid and Richie if they can achieve that. So for me it’s Tipp Hogan to pull them through while Tipp will by about five points. have Seamus Callahan, Bonnor Maher, Padraig Maher and Lar Corbett in their corHard look on the Camogie girls on ner. However, both managers will be looking their exit from this year’s All Ireland to each of their fifteen starters to perform on series but keep the heads up girls, the day. you did your county proud and you It is going to be close, I really believe that. have achieved remarkable success in But in the end I think Tipperary will emerge recent years and no one can take victorious. I think just at this moment they that away. A word of praise too for are playing more as a unit; particularly their the Wexford under-15 teams you also forwards and they are also on a bit of a roll did your county proud. considering where they were at the start of the championship.
Disappointing day for camogie girls After the great excitement of the previous week there was a disappointing outcome to the All Ireland Senior Camogie Semi Final Replay at Walsh Park Waterford, on Saturday, when Cork surprisingly eased past Wexford to book their pace in the final.In the end there was a ten point margin in the game which was totally unexpected. E even at half time when the Cork girls led by
just a point thanks mainly to a Katriona Mackey goal this looked to have the makings of another very tight game . However, to say the Cork outfit dominated the second half would be an understatement. They simply ripped Wexford asunder and they restricted them to a single point in the second half. But in the early stages it simply
Action from the Wexford Cork Camogie clash
didn’t look as if this would be the outcome at all. Although Cork went into an early lead it was Wexford who seemed to settle better and after just five minutes points from Ursula Jacob (2) and Shelley Kehoe gave the Slaneysiders a two point advantage. Cork did come back to gain the upper hand mid way through the half and they took acommanding
advantage with that Mackey goal. However, Wexford grabbed three points without reply in the closing stages of the half to go in just a single point adrift. Unfortunately that was as good as it got for the team that has brought so much joy and honour to Wexford in recent years. The second half was simply a one team story with Cork absolutely
dominating and blowing away the Wexford challenge. To be fair our girls fought to the finish but hopes of another All Ireland final appearance had disappeared long before the final whistle was sounded.
Laura Brennan gives chase to Cork’s Katriona Mackey. Pics by Patrick Hogan
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Chronicle September 03, 2014
Sport Not impressed with Kerry cynicism
Is it time for a Club Players Association? We have had the Gaelic Players Association for a number of years now looking after the interests of inter-county players and by and large it has been a very positive move with former Dublin footballer, Dessie Farrell being one of the major driving forces but is it now time that club players organised themselves particularly in light of the chaos regarding fixtures in so many counties? In fairness, in this county the fixtures committee are making every effort to have the games played but with the welcome success of our senior and under twenty one hurling teams that has not been easy. Our championship structure seems to be very popular among players, clubs and supporters, but one wonders what would happen if our senior hurling team got to an All Ireland senior hurling semi- final or final. Would we be able to have our club championships completed in time to have representatives for the Leinster club championship? Even as it stands we are going to find it very difficult to have our senior football championship
completed in time for the Leinster club championship. But back to the club player who generally seems to get a raw deal when it comes to fixtures. Counties make efforts to have master fixtures plans but these often go out the window if the county team starts to have a good run in the championship. In many instances the county team manager becomes the most powerful and influential person in the county as he wants club fixtures put off so that he can focus his players entire attention on the county team. A very good example of this has been in Donegal where team manager Jim McGuinness requested that no club championship fixtures be played until Donegal exited from the championship, and so it has happened, and McGuinness will feel thoroughly justified after the fantastic win of the Tir Conaill men over Dublin last Sunday. But very often it is the club player who loses out as he has no idea when his next game is going to be and has planned his year on the basis of the master fixtures plan. He will
have booked holidays only to be told his match is now going to be on the weekend he is going to be away and obviously he can come under a lot of pressure from his fellow players and the club to make himself available for an important championship game. If he does cancel or try to change his holiday plans he will undoubtedly lose some money in the process. He may receive some compensation from the club if he is lucky but should it not be the county board who compensates him? We are a small nation and surely it should be possible to have all club fixtures centrally organised from Croke Park with the GAA making sure that all counties play their championship games on specific dates. This would be taking control away from county boards in relation to local fixtures but surely something has to be tried to ensure that club players get games on a regular basis. We could have a club Sunday followed by an intercounty Sunday and so on down the line. But change comes dripping slow in the GAA and it may
take club players to stand up for themselves and refuse to be treated as second class citizens any longer by forming, as I stated earlier, a Club Players Association which would act as a real pressure group by forcefully articulating their demands. Or maybe difficult problems require more radical solutions. Has the time come to separate club and county? An intercounty team manager would pick thirty players who would only play for the county and not be available to play for their clubs. A positive aspect to this suggestion would be that players would get more rest and recovery and would suffer less from wear and tear while the obvious negative affect would be that clubs could ill afford to do without their top players and that standards at club level would surely suffer. I don’t think anyone would like to see that situation come about as the club is the cornerstone of the association but something must be done and soon to seriously address club players’ grievances particularly in relation to fixtures.
Your heart would have to go out to Mayo after their defeat to Kerry last weekend, and although the latter probably deserved to win overall (Mayo left it behind them the first day), I was not impressed with their cynical approach, particularly late in the game, and would blame them for starting the mêlée at the end of the game. It had to take something nasty going on for the Mayo coach Donie Buckley to get involved and he seemed to be particularly irate with Kerry sub Declan O’Sullivan (a great player but who in my opinion has brought a cynical edge to his game in recent years). Of course Donie, a superbly innovative coach, is a Kerry man and would have served in that capacity with Kerry before coming to Mayo so he would have known the Kerry players very well. I will be shouting for Donegal in the final!
Time for a Video Ref! What an absolutely enthralling game last Saturday between Kerry and Mayo and I have to say that I really wanted the Connacht county to win as I would love to see them win an All Ireland, but sadly it will not be this year. However they really went down fighting and were certainly not helped by some very strange refereeing decisions. Cormac Reilly from Meath was the man in charge and his awarding of two close in frees to Kerry towards the end of the first period of extra time surpassed all understanding. I could see no fouls being committed and the resultant points from the frees were critical to the outcome of the game. Also I thought he gave the men from the kingdom at least one dubious penalty. Of course he had only a split second to make the decision in each case and did not have the benefit of a TV action replay like us armchair supporters. But should the referee have had that technology to help him make a decision? Yes, I believe he should, and it could apply in the same way that it operates in rugby. Inter-county players make immense sacrifices nowadays in pursuit of success and the really put their lives on hold while reaching a superb level of fitness, and that was so evident last weekend. The very least they deserve is that officials try to get decisions correct, particularly the major ones. I believe that a video ref, to whom a referee would refer contentious decisions, would play a big role in bringing this about and would actually add to the excitement and suspense of our games while we awaited his verdict having examined the incident several times- eg :”you may award the penalty” or “no penalty”. The GAA had the courage to embrace “hawkeye” and it has ensured that justice has been done at least in Croke Park; let us now take on board the ”video ref” and get even more decisions right. We certainly owe it to the players who give up so much to provide us with great entertainment.
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The
Viking Life celebrated on ‘Town Wall Day’ See full report on page 17 inside
A scene from bygone Viking times during the ‘Town Wall Day’ in Abbey Street, Wexford
Chronicle September 03, 2014