Slaney News, Issue 168, May 2024.

Niamh Hogan, owner of Holos – an Enniscorthy success story, at the opening on 1st May of Holos’ new premises in Templeshannon, Enniscorthy. See more on pages 38-39.

Frizelle McCarthy Solicitors

Annette McCarthy B.C.L.

Suzanne Carthy B.A. L.L.B.

Jillian O’Shea L.L.B.

Reliable advice on all aspects of the law since 1929

Solicitors & Commissioners for Oaths Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, Y21 W5T1 Tel: 053 92 33547  Email: info@fmclaw.ie

Welcome to the May issue of the Slaney News. Enniscorthy’s festival season kicks off in style this May bank holiday weekend with the Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival and the Rock ‘n’ Roll Weekender both taking place. We carry substantial coverage in this issue particularly on pages 12-15. In a month’s time, it’s the turn of the Enniscorthy Street Rhythms Festival, and then in July the village at Wheelock’s hosts its Wexford Strawberry Weekend, and in August the All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil comes to Wexford town with Enniscorthy set to benefit from plenty of Fleadh-related activity. So definitely lots to look forward to over the summer and hopefully some good weather too!

The local and European elections are scheduled for 7th June and it’s a packed field of candidates for the Enniscorthy district. We wish them all the best of luck over the coming weeks on the campaign trail.

We also wish continued success to Enniscorthy Credit Union which is celebrating 60 years of service this year. Check out our pictorial coverage on pages 28-29.

As always, we have lots of interesting environment stories mainly carried at the end of our magazine and we also feature on pages 60-61 full details on Co. Wexford’s upcoming Climate Action Week.

We include as always a huge number of photos taken around Enniscorthy, and beyond. If you would like to purchase any of our photos please get in touch by email at slaneynews@gmail.com

If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our new format. Telephone: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has over 12,200 Followers. And, of course, if you like our online format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you

– Frank Corcoran

SLANEY NEWS

Celebrating 80 YEARS IN BUSINESS

To log a report regarding any dumping, street litter, road oil spills and potholes, ring Wexford Council on (053) 919 6000 or email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie

You will receive a log number to refer to if you need to call again.

You can also ask to register for group or individual cleanups of your environment.

(085) 146 1164 cathal.byrne@wexfordmcc.ie @CathalEByrne

Our campaign has been ongoing since early January, and it's been a very humbling experience, we've had some laughs and very positive engagements but also some tears along the way. We've heard some very harrowing stories of how people have been let down by the lack of services, which they and their loved ones desperately need, which are at times out of people's reach, due to lack of resources and staffing.

Housing and homelessness is a massive issue which the current government is lacking in. Sinn Féin at a national level have the solutions, the policies and plans to start putting right what governments over the last century have got wrong.

Sinn Féin at a national level need the support of their colleagues in local government, and to make this happen we need the help of the people of the Enniscorthy LEA by Voting Sinn Féin in the upcoming Local and European elections.

We are 5 weeks away from the elections, and we would love to meet you all. Please join us on 10th May from 12 noon to 4pm in Creative Grounds, Enniscorthy.

It’s time to cultivate your summer dreams with our full range of flower and vegetable seeds in stock. We also have all the accessories you will need to help you have a bountiful supply of fresh veg and a tidal wave of summer colour. And don’t forget our huge range of patio and container plants and our serene range of houseplants. And now is the time to think about your summer and autumn flowering bulbs.

It’s time to cultivate your summer dreams with our full range of flower and vegetable seeds in stock. We also have all the accessories you will need to help you have a bountiful supply of fresh veg and a tidal wave of summer colour. And don’t forget our huge range of patio and container plants and our serene range of houseplants. And now is the time to think about your summer and autumn flowering bulbs. Why don’t you call in store now and we’ll be more than happy to share our advice. And relax in our amazing restaurant with the perfect tea and scone.

Why don’t you call in store now and we’ll be more than happy to share our advice.

Kilcannon Garden Centre and Restaurant, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 92 35514. Find us on www.reachability.ie and www.facebook.com/KilcannonGC

Kilcannon Garden Centre and Restaurant, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 92 35514. Find us on www.reachability.ie and www.facebook.com/KilcannonGC

Enniscorthy’s Wilkie Way

In 2021 Cllr John O’Rourke suggested that the revamped steps at Castle Hill, opposite Enniscorthy Castle, be called after Sam 'Wilkie' Thorpe, Ross Road, Enniscorthy, a well known colourful character around Enniscorthy who died on 1st November 2005, aged 86 years, and is buried at St. Mary’s Cemetery in the town.

Cllr. O’Rourke said his suggestion originated from the proposition of former Cllr Sean Óg Doyle back in 2010 to name the steps in honour of Sam Wilkie Thorpe.

Wilkie played both hurling and football at the highest level for 20 years, representing his county and province. He was also known as a great soccer player playing with Cork United during his years in the army based on Spike Island. After his spell in the army, he worked at Armstrong's general merchants store in Enniscorthy, and then worked on the railway, and in his later years he drove a lorry for Davis' Mill. Last month the revamped steps at Castle Hill were officially named 'Wilkie Way' – a fitting tribute to a larger-than-life character who always took great pride in his home town of Enniscorthy. n

Recruiting for Community Visitor

Community Employment Programme Details:

 Scheme Category: Community Health Worker.

 Scheme Location: Community Information Services, 6 Main Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Y21 YE16.

 Contract Type: Temporary.

 Job Type: Community Employment.

 Start date: To Be Confirmed. End date: To Be Confirmed.

 Hours per week: 19.5 Hours.

 Positions: 6.

Application Details:

Eligibility to participate on CE is generally linked to those who are 21 years or over and in receipt of a qualifying social welfare payment for 1 year or more, or 18 years and over for certain disadvantaged groups. Your eligibility will have to be verified by the Department.

You can register your interest by contacting Mr Patrick O’Shea at the email address below, or contact a case officer in your local Intreo Centre.

Applicants should supply suitable character references and be prepared to complete a Garda vetting application form.

Duties Will Include:

This is a developmental opportunity, no experience necessary. Accredited training will be provided to support your career.

Visitation of the elderly in their own homes and delivery of meals on wheels.

More Details Available From:

Mr Patrick O’Shea, Chairman, Enniscorthy Community Services Council CLG, 6 Main Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Y21 YE16.

Email: pat.oshea@enniscorthycommunity.ie

We operate the meals on wheels service for Enniscorthy town, we deliver Monday to Saturday. We are looking for Voluntary Drivers who can help us out, it is one hour a day for six days, once a year. If you can help, please ring us on 053-9233746 giving your name and contact details and you will then be contacted by us.

The Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival kicks off with a bang this Friday 3rd May

Get ready to tantalise your taste buds and rock your senses at the highly anticipated Rockin' Food Festival, opening its doors this Friday, May 3rd, on The Promenade from 8.30pm! Music by Loose Arrangements will kick off the evening on The Promenade by the Riverside Park Hotel and, as the sun sets, the Slaney skyline will be illuminated by a spectacular fireworks display, marking the beginning of a weekend filled with culinary delights, family fun and rock ‘n’ roll.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FESTIVAL INCLUDE:

Fireworks on The Promenade: Friday 3rd May, entertainment on The Prom from 8.30pm (Fireworks approx. 9.15/9.30pm) and The Funfair will be in full swing, climb aboard The Big Wheel for the best view of the Slaney.

Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th May

Live Chef Demonstrations in The Food Marquee: Renowned chefs will take the stage to showcase their culinary expertise, sharing insider tips and tricks to inspire home cooks and foodies alike.

Saturday:

12pm - 1pm: The Baking Goddess, Lorraine from Daisy Cottage.

1pm: Paul Hynes, La Cote Restaurant & The Cheeky Cod, Wexford. One of Wexford's best chefs, Paul Hynes serves up some seafood favourites with an Italian twist from The Cheeky Cod and La Cote Restaurant in Wexford.

2pm: Kevin Dundon – One of Ireland's best loved chefs takes to the stage with some of his favourite seasonal dishes combining the best of Wexford produce.

3.15pm - 3.30pm: Mor Taste – Less sugar, more taste – Wexford food producer, Felix, talks us through his healthier alternative jam.

Sunday:

12pm - 1pm: Alan Kennedy, Kennedy's Craft Butchers. All about Meat! Craft Butcher Alan Kennedy educates us on selecting the right cut of meat, how to cook it and getting the best from your local butcher!

1pm - 2pm: Junior Bake Off. Who will be crowned Junior Master Baker. See website for entry details! Enter online at www.rockinfoodfestival.ie

2pm - 3pm: Shane Smith. A regular on RTE's The Today Show, award-winning baker Shane Smith returns to the stage using the best of local ingredients for sweeter tastes! (One lucky attendee will take one of his creations home!)

3pm - 4pm: John Whelan, The Devils Menu. Join the cult of fun and food with The Devils Menu as he spices up some local strawberries from Wheelocks with red wine and Meadowfield Farm Goats Cheese!

4pm - 5pm: Wexford FC Bake Off. Food & Football Fusion – Wexford FC Bake Off with some special surprise guests!

Food & Craft Market

Ramble through the winding streets of Enniscorthy and take in a variety of tastes and flavours from over 70 Artisan Food & Craft vendors.

Variety of Kids Events:

Families can look forward to a plethora of kids' events and activities, ensuring little ones are entertained throughout the festival.

From Puppet Shows, Paw Patrol Cookie Hunt, Disco with the Minions & Trolls to a range of interactive arts & crafts workshops to exciting games, there's no shortage of fun for the young ones. Wexford FC will be on hand to meet and greet the younger soccer fans with their therapy dog ‘Lucky’ and a ‘Top Bin’ competition for aspiring soccer stars.

Kids can enjoy Rock ‘n’ Roll Dance Classes in the Market Square on Saturday at 12.30pm and even participate in the Junior Bake Off, judged by Shane Smith.

Booking Available: Attendees can reserve spots for kids' events and activities in advance by visiting www.rockinfoodfestival.ie, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for families.

The Rockin’ Food Festival has also partnered with the Enniscorthy Community Allotments this year, who will host a variety of FREE talks on Saturday 4th May from 12pm – 4pm.

Live Outdoor Music

There will be live outdoor music throughout the weekend in the Market Square with the best of Irish & International Rock ‘n’ Roll bands.

Don't miss out on the culinary event of the year! For more information and to book tickets, visit www.rockinfoodfestival.ie

STREET VENDOR MAP

Food Marquee

2pm

3.15pm

smart with a guide to making better choices for sustainable healthy eating.

12pm - 1pm Alan Kennedy, Kennedy’s Craft Butchers All about Meat! - Craft Butcher Alan Kennedy educates us on selecting the right cut of meat, how to cook it and getting the best from your local butcher!

1pm - 2pm Junior Bake Off

will be crowned Junior Master Baker - see website for entry details!

2pm - 3pm Shane Smith A regular on RTE’s The Today Show, award winning baker Shane Smith returns to the stage using the best of local ingredients for sweeter tastes! (One lucky attendee will take one of his creations home!)

3pm - 4pm John Whelan, The Devils Menu Join the cult of fun and food with The Devils Menu as he spices up some local strawberries from Wheelock’s with red wine & Meadowfield Farm Goats Cheese!

4pm - 5pm Wexford FC Bake Off

& Football fusion - Wexford FC Bake Off with some special surprise guests!

12pm - 12.45pm Annika Schulz Food Preservation, introduction to methods such as conserves, vinegars, kombucha etc…

1pm - 2pm Little Buds Cyril Wheelock from Wheelocks Farm will join our Little Buds for a Demonstration on how to grow their own Strawberry Plants.

2pm - 3pm May Bush Tree Decoration May Bush Tree Decoration and Hisory of the May Bush with Michael Fortune

3pm - 4pm

Guide

Rock ‘n’ Roll Town Weekender

is all set to go

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Town Weekender will be running over four days – the 3rd to 6th of May attracting some of the best Irish and International rock ‘n’ roll bands to Enniscorthy. There will be bands on the Main Stage in the Market Square in addition to a gig trail in the pubs and other smaller venues, and of course the new innovation this year of the Marquee at the Waterfront swimming pool car-park. The music in the Marquee is FREE on the Friday, Saturday and Monday, and €25 for the superb Sunday lineup. For all the music updates: https://www.facebook.com/RocknRollTownEnniscorthy n

Helping out! Richie Cotter and Tom Kelly at the erection of the Marquee on 1st May.

ENNISCORTHY IS ABOUT TO CHANGE –STILL TIME TO HAVE YOUR SAY!

WHILE SUPPORTIVE OF MANY ASPECTS OF THE PROPOSED 'ENNISCORTHY TOWN CENTRE FIRST PLAN', A LARGE NUMBER OF ENNISCORTHY'S BUSINESSES, LOCALLY OWNED AND KNOWN FOR THEIR PERSONAL SERVICE AND EXPERTISE, FEAR THE NEW PLAN COULD MAKE IT MUCH MORE DIFFICULT FOR CUSTOMERS TO ACCESS OUR UNIQUELY HILLY TOWN'S SHOPS AND SERVICES...

In the run-up to the local elections in June, the town's businesses and their customers will be highlighting the drawbacks in the present form of the Town Centre First Plan to all those running for election in the Enniscorthy district. The businesses have calculated that the Plan will involve the removal of 104 car-parking spaces in the centre of town making the town centre less convenient to access for their customers, and are promoting the need for a new multi-storey, town-centre car park to precede the implementation of any such re-configuration of Enniscorthy.

The people of Enniscorthy and surrounding areas are being asked to support the campaign by bringing it up in discussions with our prospective Councillors. Keep an eye out for the posters and leaflets around town (see accompanying images) and have your say!

By coincidence, the ‘Sunday Independent’ has just published an article about Limerick city centre which has many parallels to what is proposed for Enniscorthy and is well worth a read –we reproduce that article on the page opposite. n

Walkable all year round

The Country Walk along the Slaney commencing at the footbridge at the end of the Prom has received a massive makeover and reopened to the public on schedule on 26th April. What was a narrow, waterlogged, puddlefilled track is now a two-metre wide, freshly gravelled path which means it is walkable all year round.

For anyone who hasn’t seen it yet, check out Cllr. Aidan Browne's video at: https://www.facebook.com/Cllr.Aidan.Browne/videos/7 87748289958986

Work is continuing on the 600m loop running from the Prom side of the footbridge up to Munster Hill and down the far side of the river at Davis’ Mill to join up with the main path. This will eliminate the need to walk over the footbridge and therefore make the Country Walk more accessible. n

New bus service a huge boost for Templeshannon area in

A new bus service linking Enniscorthy to New Ross is a very welcome development indeed, but the fact that is now links the Templeshannon area of Enniscorthy to the Lidl and Aldi stores on the far side of town, is a huge added bonus for residents of Enniscorthy’s east side.

Running services seven days a week, starting on the Esmonde Road, the new route has stops at Esmonde Road, Vinegar Hill Villas, Fr. Cullen Tce., St. Senan’s Church and at the Bus Stop on Templeshannon Quay. The service then makes its way through stops on Wafer Street, St. Patrick’s Street, Ross Road, Gort na Gréine, to a stop at Marconi Park close to the roundabout at Lidl/Aldi. The service continues to Enniscorthy Community College and further stops at Bridgemeadow and The Lyre (McSorley’s Centra). The entire journey across town takes just 15 minutes. After The Lyre, the service continues on to Ballindaggin, Kiltealy, Killanne, Rathnure, Ballywilliam and Rathgarogue, before reaching New Ross.

Download the timetable on: https://locallinkwexford.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/359-New-Ross-to-Enniscorthy-via-Rathnure.pdf

Well done to the team at Local Link for bringing this badly-needed, new service to Enniscorthy. n

Wexford’s solidarity with Gaza

Taking inspiration from the words of Martin Luther King Jr: "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere", the Wexford branch of Amnesty International is holding weekly vigils in solidarity with the people of Gaza, highlighting the sav-

age, brutal and terrifying injustices occurring there every day, remembering all those killed in the Israel–Palestine conflict, calling for a permanent and immediate ceasefire and demanding Israel allow unimpeded urgent medical aid into Gaza.

The vigils take place at 6.30pm every Thursday at Redmond Square in Wexford town. All are invited to attend and show support.

Follow ‘Amnesty International Wexford Group’ on Facebook. n

Last month Amnesty activists, including Wexford Amnesty Group member Brian Corcoran (centre of photo) renamed the road opposite the Israeli embassy in Dublin “Apartheid Avenue” to highlight the Israeli government’s system of apartheid which it inflicts on Palestinian people. Amnesty says, “The Irish government must call out Israel as committing the crime of apartheid.”

Enniscorthy Forum hosts its second Buildings Action Coalition summit

The Enniscorthy Forum is a non-profit organisation established in Enniscorthy in 2021 with the support of the Irish government to accelerate attainment of the United Nations’ development agenda.

The Forum’s work on high-performance buildings was initiated following contact between Scott Foster, then director of Sustainable Energy at the United Nations in Geneva, and Enniscorthy-based champions of the Passive House movement. Those discussions led at first to development and endorsement of the UN’s framework guidelines for energy efficiency standards in buildings and then to launch of the UN’s High Performance Buildings Initiative.

The Enniscorthy Forum has now teamed up with UNEP through a formal memorandum of understanding to raise the performance of the built environment globally by activating critical investments that “move the needle” on decarbonisation, resilience, and improved quality of life.

The Enniscorthy Forum hosts the secretariat for the Buildings Action Coalition (BAC), whose members include organisations and institutions that operate at community level and that provide implementationoriented education and assistance to building developers, contractors, architects, and engineers, as well as regulatory and planning officials.

The Board of Enniscorthy Forum and Buildings Action Coalition Members who signed Letters of Intent and MOU with Enniscorthy Forum.

Barbara-Anne Murphy, CEO Enniscorthy Forum, Tomas O'Leary and Art McCormack from MosArt architects signing Letter of Intent with Enniscorthy Forum Buildings Action Coalition.

On April 8-10, 2024, the Enniscorthy Forum hosted the second summit of its Buildings Action Coalition in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, with the theme “Metrics of Success: Securing Real Progress Toward Sustainable Buildings”. The summit brought together officials and staff from both national and international government, policy experts, and leading building practitioners to explore how to decarbonise buildings and create more resilient, livable communities.

The Summit was designed to advance the agenda of the Buildings and Climate Global Forum, led by France and the UN Environment Programme in March 2024 in Paris, and its Chaillot Declaration. The point of departure for the summit was that there is a need to act quickly and at global scale to deliver high performance buildings in order to meet the climate challenge and deliver on quality-of-life aspirations around the world. The climate is changing, resilience is essential, and the built environment is at the heart of resilience.

In his opening remarks, the Irish Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage Darragh O’Brien noted, “The overall objective of the Enniscorthy Forum’s Buildings Action Coalition, to achieve high performance in buildings and the built environment rapidly and at global scale, strikes at the heart of the critical challenges we face. It is essential that all of these efforts lead to improved quality of life – that is, improved health, better economic, social, and environmental resilience, social justice, better levels of comfort, affordability, indoor and broader urban air quality. We are pleased to see Ireland take a leading role in advancing these principles globally.”

For various times over the course of three days, 150 participants joined the summit either in person or online to consider issues and opportunities related to buildings and the built environment. The summit set forth a range of policies and approaches that are being deployed to advance high performance buildings and insisted on the need for cross-cutting education and training. Notably, leading universities presented their vision for educating the next-generation professionals needed for sustainability in buildings and international centres of excellence shared the training approaches they apply to improve the industrial ecosystems that deliver high performance in buildings.

Jack Chambers, Minister of State at the Department of Transport and Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, observed that, “Nearly 40% of greenhouse gas emissions are a result of the energy services that buildings require, services such as heating, cooling, and ventilating. We can add to that figure all of the embedded carbon in the materials that go into buildings and all of the transport emissions that are a consequence of how cities are designed and how mobility options are integrated. Engaging the world at community level to raise the performance of the buildings sector is an effective approach since we all live and work in communities and that’s where real differences can be made.”

• The summit featured case studies in collaborative leadership from Brussels and Washington DC as capital cities and from Pittsburgh and Glasgow as cities delivering quality of life in a post-industrial context.

• Two specific topics, using the integration of buildings and grids as a bridge to the future and addressing the growing energy demands of data centres, were the subject of much discussion.

– Integrating buildings and grids efficiently offers improved energy services for buildings, an important source of grid stability, and an opportunity to integrate intermittent renewables into the energy mix.

– The demand for data centres is growing exponentially in line with the production and retention of data, and that in turn is pressuring the transformation and decarbonization of energy systems.

– Improved data retention policies, better configuration and siting of data centres, decarbonization of data centre energy services, and beneficial use of the waste heat generated by data centres were presented as needed solutions.

• One of the key objectives under the vision of the Buildings Action Coalition is to change the culture of the buildings industries. Enniscorthy Forum is undertaking to achieve that shift in culture not only through its networks of academia and centres of excellence, but also through engagement with youth organisations and use of the creative and performing arts to both teach and inspire youth on the principles of high performance.

Group photo on the roof of Enniscorthy Castle at the Enniscorthy Forum Buildings Action Coalition reception.

The summit featured launch of a fifth pillar of the Buildings Action Coalition, the Youth Movement and Social Action League (YSL), and the Enniscorthy Forum signed letters of intent with the Youth Democracy Movement (YDM), the Union of Students in Ireland (USI), the Organising Bureau of European School Student Unions (OBESSU), the Commonwealth Students Association (CSA), and the Irish Second-Level Students Union (ISSU).

– In the closing segment of the summit, students from New York City working with Passive House for Everyone! and the city of New York presented an inspiring set of art, music, and demonstration projects, notably an ice cream challenge (!) that was conceived to minimise melting by proper design.

One of the highlights of the summit was a gathering at Senan House, the first high performance commercial building in Ireland, for a presentation of technology innovations emerging from Trinity College of Dublin’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre. Participants then decamped to Enniscorthy Castle for a ceremony signing in new members of the Buildings Action Coalition. In addition to the letters of intent signed with the YSL, new members included MosArt Passive House Architects based in County Wicklow, Ireland, and Center for Energy Efficiency EnEffect based in Sophia, Bulgaria.

In her concluding remarks, Barbara-Anne Murphy, CEO of Enniscorthy Forum, noted, “Getting buildings and the built environ-

ment right is the one thing that can deliver important, impactful results in a relevant timeframe. We don’t need to wait for nuclear fusion – we have the technology, we have the capital, and we have the know-how to make a real difference in the performance of buildings.”

The essence of the summit can be summarised as “done right, the building sector and the built environment is the one area that can deliver on climate change and quality of life quickly and at global scale. It is essential that all players in the sector remain pragmatic, agnostic and effective but deliver high performance –it is necessary to share knowledge, disseminate best practices, and change the culture of the industries and administration involved in buildings and the built environment. The transformation will involve education, training, demonstration, and communication.

The Enniscorthy Forum, located in Enniscorthy, was established to support the United Nations’ sustainable development agenda, focusing on Buildings and the Built Environment, Energy, Diplomacy, Health, and Education. The Enniscorthy Forum and its partners work in collaboration with UNEP to promote and demonstrate the transformative benefits of high-performance buildings and to ensure take-up of best practice methods in planning, design, and construction across the world.

The Building Action Coalition will continue to press on the range

Above left: Marc Costa and Richard Orr. Above right: Barbara-Anne Murphy, Marc Costa, Eleanor Saunders and Tomas O’Leary.

Below left: Henry Wright, Anna Weinrich, Daniel O’Connor, Barbara-Anne Murphy, Richard Orr. Below right: Dave Parker, Paddy Kelly, Catherine Fox.

of its activities and initiatives in the areas of best practice dissemination, communication and deployment of high performance principles, education, training, and research, and development of case studies as proofs of concept. Coalition members provide hour-long webinars on the second Wednesday

of each month to explore and explain novel approaches they have developed. The first regional summit is being organised with a BAC member, The Energy Coalition. It will take place in Autumn 2024 in Los Angeles, California. The third BAC summit will take place in summer 2025. n

Below: Mister Emma and Sebastian Moreno-Vacca.

Below right: Ministers James Browne TD and Charlie McConologue TD with Barbara-Anne Murphy, CEO, Enniscorthy Forum.

Above left: Barbara-Anne Murphy, Bill O’Connor and Scott Foster. Above right: Barbara-Anne Murphy, Scott Foster, Bill O’Connor, Cynthia Ní Mhurchu, Minister Charlie McConologue and Minister James Browne.

Below left: Andreas Breuer, Michael Oldak and Kay Aiken. Below right: Theresa Asple, Máire Browne and Eleanor Saunders.

Sinn Féin Loch Garman public representatives pictured with local election candidates for Co. Wexford. A strong duo of candidates will be running in the Enniscorthy district: Colette Nolan and Alfie O’Sullivan.

A strong team

Colette Nolan (see photo 4th from left) https://www.facebook.com/colette.nolan.50 and Alfie O'Sullivan (on the right of attached photo) https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=644759096 Two new bus routes to try

A new route No.359 is now in operation from New Ross to Enniscorthy via Rathnure. The service operates 7 days a week. The timetable can be viewed here: https://locallinkwexford.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/359-NewRoss-to-Enniscorthy-via-Rathnure.pdf

A new route 884 is now operating between Gorey and Wexford on the R741 serving Ballycanew, Monamolin, Ballyedmond, Oulart, Ballaghkeen and Castlebridge. The service operates 7 days a week. Please see: https://bookings.wexfordbus.com/Timetable/TimetableHome?route=wexford_gorey_route884

Finding it hard to get a taxi?

You’re not the only one!

FINDING IT HARD TO GET A TAXI IN ENNISCORTHY OR ELSEWHERE IN CO. WEXFORD?

Some interesting background info: No. of Co. Wexford taxis in 2019: 299 No. of Co. Wexford taxis in 2022: 244 No. of Co. Wexford taxis in 2023: 233 % change 2019 versus 2023: 22.07% decrease.

Taxi numbers in Wexford have declined by 22% since 2019, according to new figures from the National Transport Authority (NTA). The figures came in response to a recent parliamentary question by Independent Offaly TD Carol Nolan. This dramatic drop in available taxis raises concerns for the vital hospitality industry as well as everyday passengers.

“The significant decrease in taxi availability is a crippling blow to rural Ireland’s hospitality sector,” says Adrian Cummins, CEO of the Restaurants Association of Ireland. “These businesses often rely on taxis to get customers home safely, especially after dark. With little to no public transport links in rural areas and without a vital taxi service, many people simply won't go out, further squeezing already strained rural businesses."

The decline in taxi numbers is attributed to a number of factors, including the fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic, an

onerous entry system, and costly barriers for new drivers –such as the exorbitant cost of new vehicles.

The Taxis for Ireland Coalition is calling on the NTA and the government to take immediate action to address the shortage of taxis. They propose a 30% increase in taxi vehicles by 2027 as a step towards alleviating the impact of driver and vehicle number decrease over the past decade, coupled with Ireland's population growth. n

Budding artists

Enniscorthy Credit Union is running a Colouring Competition to help celebrate its 60th Anniversary and the closing date has been extended to Friday, May 31st.

To enter, call in to its offices or download and get colouring here: https://www.enniscorthycu.ie/cuweb/wp-content/uploads/Enniscorthy-Credit-Union-Colouri ng-competition.pdf

There is one prize of a €100 Eason Voucher for each age group: 7 years & Under, 8-10 yrs, and 11-13 yrs. n

Enniscorthy Community Allot

Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA) is as much about ‘community’ as it is about ‘allotments’, so the calendar there is always packed with loads of activities and events for the members to participate in.

Some recent highlights include an afternoon for the ‘Little Buds’ to sow sunflower seeds and find Easter Eggs, and delicious homemade baking for everyone to enjoy. ECA expresses its thanks to Julie Grant and Wexford Local Development and also Pettitt’s SuperValu for helping to sponsor this event.

Another recent highlight was the visit of Green MEP Grace O’Sullivan to the allotments accompanied by Green local election candidate for Enniscorthy Brendan Cahill-Flynn.

A major event was the unveiling on 13th April of the new ‘Bean Together’ sculpture on site. Designed and coordinated by well known artist Imogen Stafford, the sculpture was made by ten members of the allotments (see plaque on opposite page) with a little engineering help from local businesses Kent Stainless and Mick McGrath Engineering.

ECA thanks Creative Ireland, Creative Places Enniscorthy, Wexford Co. Council, and Enniscorthy Credit Union for their support also. n

Above left: Annette Byrne Moran at the impressive homebaking stall at the Easter event in Enniscorthy Community Allotments. Above right: The ‘Little Buds’ hard at work. Below left: Enjoying the Easter event. Below right: Gillian O’Neill and Nessa Byrne looking after the refreshments.

Below left: Getting into the swing of things at the Easter event. Below right: Green MEP Grace O’Sullivan (centre) with ECA members and Enniscorthy Green election candidate Brendan Cahill-Flynn on left.

tments – a beehive of activity

Some of

behind the new sculpture, Mairead Dunne, Jackie Breen, Nessa Byrne, Michael Devereux (Chairperson, Enniscorthy Community Allotments), Joan Fogarty, Artist Imogen Stafford, Sean Fogarty, Annette Byrne Moran.

Above:

team

Above left: Artist Imogen Stafford with Michael Devereux and Cllr Aidan Browne of Enniscorthy Community Allotments. Above right: Trish Doyle (representing Enniscorthy Credit Union) with ECA members and sculpture participants Nessa Byrne and Annette Byrne Moran. Below left: Sean Fogarty, Michael Devereux, Trish Doyle, Gillian O’Neill, Mairead Dunne, Jackie Breen. Below right: Imogen Stafford, Michael Devereux, Cllr. John O’Rourke (Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District), Cllr Aidan Browne, Ann-Marie Laffan (Wexford Co. Council), Cllr Cathal Byrne.

A 60-year success story

Enniscorthy Credit Union (ECU) is celebrating 60 years serving its members this year having faithfully attended to its 32,000 local members over six decades. Through its loans and saving accounts, Enniscorthy Credit Union has enhanced the lives of people in this area and has always been there for its members.

Enniscorthy Credit Union Ltd was founded following a public meeting held in Bennett’s Hotel, Enniscorthy, on 13th April 1964. At the end of its first year it had assets of £1,018-2-11 (1,018 pounds, 2 shillings and 11 pence); Loans to members were £447 which were financed by members shares of £987.

Today it has come a long way with assets of €230 million, a measure of the success of the credit union and of the esteem in which it is held by its 32,000 members. Its loan book stands at €54 million, and savings of €196 million. n

Some photos taken in the Abbey Square premises, Enniscorthy, as Enniscorthy Credit Union celebrates 60 years of service (photos courtesy of Enjoy Enniscorthy) and photos taken by the Slaney News in The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, after a Service in St Aidan’s Cathedral on 12th April.

Top left: Madeleine Doran, Áine Doyle and Mary Moulds.

Above: Longest serving staff member Madeleine Doran with ECU Manager Liz

Cullen.

Left: Aidan O’Leary, last surviving founding member from 1964 of Enniscorthy Credit Union, received a special presentation on 12th April 2024.

Below left: Liam O’Leary, Kevin Murphy, Orla Doyle, Liz Cullen and Mark Daly.

Below: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Louise Doyle, and Frances Cross.

Below

Below

Above left: ECU Chairperson Tommy Tyrrell with Manager Liz Cullen.

Above right: L-R: John Higgins, Martin Busch, President of the Irish League of Credit Unions, Martin Tyrrell ECU Chairperson, Aine Doyle ECU Member Engagement & Marketing Manager.

Left: Rita Doyle and Hilary Pepper.

Right: Tommy Tyrrell welcoming Martin Busch, President of the Irish League of Credit Unions to Enniscorthy Credit Union.

left: Margie McIntyre, John Dempsey and Una Murphy.

right: Madeleine Doran, Anna Sheehan and Alan Goff of South East Radio.

All set for Darkness Into Light

A successful registration day was held on 20th April 2024 in the Market Square (see pics on opposite page) to faciliate people to register for the upcoming Darkness into Light 2024 event which will take place in Enniscorthy on May 11th at 4.30am to show support for the fight against suicide.

To learn more and to keep up to date, check out: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088855197125

Sign up online: https://www.darknessintolight.ie/sign-up

Donate here: https://www.darknessintolight.ie/fundraisers/dilenniscorthycommittee

Register now for Darkness Into Light

Far left on opposite page, L-R: Kerry O'Shea, Aine Doyle, Olive Jordan, Corina O'Brien.

Top right: Olive Jordan, Majella Wall, Ruairí Ryan. Above: Corina O’Brien, Ruairí Ryan.

Right: Cllr Cathal Byrne, Ruairí Ryan.

Below left: Corina O'Brien, Majella Wall, Annemartina Kehoe, Kerry O'Shea, Ruairí Ryan, Olive Jordan.

Every Tuesday and Friday at 11am, all are welcome!!

Keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/TempleshannonCo mmunityandChildcareCentre

Enniscorthy Eastside Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/320813591 438762

Enniscorthy East Community Development: https://www.facebook.com/EEastCommunity

Dedicated to restoring your strength, mobility, and overall well-being

I am Martin Conway, a devoted Neuromuscular Therapist dedicated to restoring your strength, mobility, and overall well-being. My medical journey commenced at 14, and since then, I've relentlessly refined my skills, amassing knowledge and certifications in medical care and sports therapy.

Rooted in compassion, my desire to aid others led me to the Order of Malta cadet corps, where I received training in first aid, advancing to advanced techniques. As a first aid trainer, I had the privilege of imparting life-saving skills to the public.

Navigating medical challenges transitioning to the R.N.L.I., I served as a first aider and local trainer in Wexford, facing and embracing the challenges

of providing maritime medical care, further solidifying my dedication to medicine.

Specialising in advanced therapies, diving into neuromuscular therapy, massage therapy, and orthopaedic sports massage, I trained under John

Sharkey at the National Training Centre, equipping me to address various musculoskeletal issues effectively.

A career in elite sports with roles in top SSE Airtricity League teams like Wexford F.C.'s academy, I handle prematch preparations, first aid, and physiotherapy, ensuring athletes' optimal performance. I've also contributed to G.A.A. teams under renowned physiotherapists like Donal O’Connor.

Empowering athletes and individuals beyond sports therapy, I offer personalised care to clients of all ages and backgrounds. Leveraging my expertise in skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems, I tailor treatments to each individual's unique needs, always striving for optimal outcomes.

Lots happening on the Eastside

The third of a regular series by the team at Enniscorthy East Community Development looking at community matters in Templeshannon

the plight of the Templeshannon area, we finally began to see the fruits of our labours over the last couple of weeks. With the arrival of some fine weather, ‘Spring Cleaning’ was certainly in the air around Enniscorthy East. Residents of Gimont Avenue organised a major clean-up around the area ably directed by Pat Carty and Mick O’Sullivan. This was followed by the tidying up of a major litter black spot (the back lane) and hats off to Lynda Murphy of our Community Development team for her constant lobbying to get this important job done. Following up on these clean-ups, attention then turned to the area to the rear of Hillview Heights. All of the accumulated rubbish and old furniture was removed from the adjoining field and the area adjacent to the residents’ back gardens was cleaned off using mechanical diggers. Next on the list for Hillview is a full replanting of the ‘bollards’ in front of the houses at Hillview. Thanks to Mary and Lilly Corrigan who are working with Wexford Local Development and Enniscorthy Tidy Towns in the selection and planting of the shrubs etc as well as being active members of our Community Development team.

We were also delighted to see members of our new Foróige Youth Club completing a community clean-up in the Spring Valley area. Great to see young people getting involved in their community and we expect to hear a lot more about them over the coming months. To top off a great week of clean-ups for Enniscorthy East, the laneway at the rear of the Shamrocks’ pitch also got a makeover and it looks really well with its new surface and trimmed ditches.

Public Transport: Possibly overshadowing all of the news around tidying up the area, we also made a significant breakthrough on the public transport front. So long without any form of public transport, we were delighted to see the launch of the new Local Link Service No. 359. This new service primarily provides a link from Enniscorthy to New Ross, but the good news is that it reaches the Drumgoold area and connects Templeshannon with the western half of Enniscorthy including the popular retail outlets of Lidl and Aldi. This route also services Enniscorthy Community College and operates five services per day across Templeshannon. Route 359 has stops at Esmonde Road, Vinegar Hill Villas, Fr. Cullen’s Tce., St. Senan’s Church and at the Bus Stop on Templeshannon Quay. We welcome the provision of this valuable service and would encourage all local residents to spread the word about it as much as possible.

receive from the various agencies that work with us. Julie Grant of Wexford Local Development has been a pillar for us and more recently we have become involved with the newly formed Enniscorthy Inter Agency team. This group has representatives from all of the major agencies that work on the ground in Enniscorthy and is a valuable forum. We had the opportunity to present our views to its members last month and our points were very well received. A special word of thanks to its founder Ann Marie Laffan of Wexford County Council who has been a major catalyst for positive change in Templeshannon. Ann Marie heads up the Sláinte Healthy Communities Dept. in Wexford County Council. Recent published research shows that one of the key contributors to health and well being is a sense of connection and belonging. This is especially true for the older people living in our community. One thing for certain we can say is that Templeshannon has a very strong sense of community. It is still a community where people know each other and more especially look out for each other.

Local Elections: With local elections just around the corner, the Enniscorthy East Community Development team are looking forward to meeting with the new Enniscorthy Municipal District elected representatives. For the new term, we are looking for a fair and equitable distribution of resources especially when it comes to planning new amenities. Our hope of course is that Enniscorthy East will have a strong voice at the table of the new council particularly with Eamonn Doyle, Eastside born and bred, running for election.

But regardless of whoever gets elected to represent the Enniscorthy District, we will be expecting a much stronger input into Templeshannon from the incoming Council than has been the case heretofore. Enniscorthy East has been very poorly served by successive Councils for a number of years now and this will no longer be tolerated by its often neglected residents.

If you are interested in making Templeshannon a better place to live for all its residents, feel free to come along and get involved. We meet once per month in the Templeshannon Community Centre.

Keep up to date on Facebook by clicking on this link: https://www.facebook.com/EEastCommunity n

Shopfront improvement scheme

GRANTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR SHOPFRONT PAINTING, HANGING BASKETS, ETC IN THE ENNISCORTHY DISTRICT...

Shopfront Painting & Flower Grant Scheme 2024:

The Enniscorthy Municipal District Shopfront Painting & Flower Grant Scheme 2024 will assist business owners / operators to carry out works which will improve the exterior appearance of their business premises. Applications are invited from commercial properties in the following locations: Ballindaggin, Bree, Bunclody, Enniscorthy, Davidstown, Ferns and Kiltealy.

Grants available for 2024 are as follows:

Shopfront Painting €300. Flower Grant Scheme €150.

Applications forms are available from the Enniscorthy Municipal District office. Completed forms must be submitted to: Enniscorthy Municipal District, Market Square, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.

Any queries, please telephone Enniscorthy Municipal District 053 919 6830 or email: emdreception@wexfordcoco.ie

Closing date for receipt of completed Application Forms is: 5pm, Friday, 31st May 2024. n

ADOPTION OF THE LOCAL ECONOMIC & COMMUNITY PLAN 2024 – 2029

The elected members of Wexford County Council adopted the LECP Framework Plan 2024 – 2029 and LECP Implementation Plan 2024 – 2025 at the April meeting of Wexford County Council.

The primary aim of the LECP is to set out the objectives and actions needed to promote and support the economic and community development of Co. Wexford. This Plan includes a series of High-Level Goals which represent the specific vision that Wexford County Council wishes to deliver directly or in partnership with its economic and community development stakeholders over the next six years.

The development of the LECP has provided an opportunity to frame an ambition for the County and its development over the next number of years, an ambition which is based around the understanding obtained from the research conducted in the development of the LECP and through views provided during the consultation process with key stakeholders, the community and the private sector.

The approval of this plan by the elected members of Council fol-

lowed consideration by the Local Community Development Committee, Strategic Policy Committee for Economic Development & Enterprise, Municipal Districts and Southern Regional Assembly.

Welcoming the new strategic plan, Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co.Council Cllr. John Fleming highlighted that the LECP and implementation plan provides a framework to continue supporting the sustainable growth of the local economy and communities.

Proposing the adoption of this statutory document, Chairperson of the Economic SPC and Advisory Steering Group member Cllr Michael Whelan said he was delighted to see the completion of the project after an extensive consultation and development process.

Speaking afterwards, Chairperson of the Local Community and Development Committee Cllr. Aidan Browne welcomed the adoption by the Members, thanking everyone who contributed to it and looked forward to seeing the delivery of the agreed goals and objectives for County Wexford over the next six years.

Preparations are currently underway for an official launch of the Local Economic & Community Plan (LECP) in the coming weeks. n

Breathing life into vacant and derelict properties

Wexford County Council held a series of information sessions around County Wexford in April, at which staff from Wexford County Council offered expert advice on the national grants and supports available to renovate vacant and derelict properties. These information sessions gave people an opportunity to discuss options privately regarding the restoration of vacant and derelict properties. Supports available include the Croi Conaithe Grant amongst other supports. Further details of all vacant home grant schemes are available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/regeneration-unit

Above: Wexford Co. Council and Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) staff with Enniscorthy Councillors at the well attended information session in the EMD offices, Market Square, Enniscorthy, on 12th April 2024. n

Barbara-Anne meets Nancy Pelosi

On 21st April 2024 in the American Ambassador’s Residence in Dublin, Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy was one of the guests at the Annual USIreland Fulbright Public Service Award when the former Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi was presented with the award, marking her contribution to public service and political life.

Ms. Pelosi, in a ‘fireside chat’, spoke with US Ambassador Claire Cronin about her contribution to politics over four decades describing her path in politics as ‘housewife, House Representative, House Leader’.

Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy said, ‘Nancy Pelosi a true inspiration for all who consider a life in politics, and her encouragement for women to enter politics is remarkable. It was an honour to be among the 200 or so guests in Deerfield who got to meet and speak with this extraordinary lady.’ n

A new contender promises to ruffle some feathers!

As the June 7th election draws near, a new contender has emerged on the local political stage, offering a comprehensive vision for the future of our community. Alfie O'Sullivan, owner of Creative Grounds in Enniscorthy, representing the Sinn Fein party, brings a platform focused on addressing various facets of community development, including arts, culture, history, tourism, local transport, healthcare, housing and youth engagement.

At the core of O'Sullivan's campaign is the commitment to regenerate the local area by leveraging its cultural, heritage and tourism potential. O'Sullivan proposes initiatives aimed at revitalising the arts and culture scene, preserving historical landmarks, and boosting tourism activities, with the goal of stimulating economic growth and fostering community pride.

In addition to cultural revitalisation, O'Sullivan emphasises the improvement of local transport infrastructure to enhance connectivity and accessibility for residents. He also intends to focus on the neglected areas such as Templeshannon and ensure that they are a main focus of the upcoming town regeneration plans.

Alfie O'Sullivan

The housing crisis is also a focal point of O'Sullivan's platform, with proposals to champion for affordable housing options and improve housing security for residents. O'Sullivan intends to explore innovative housing solutions and collaborate with government agencies and housing organisations to address housing challenges in the community.

Furthermore, O'Sullivan recognises the importance of investing in youth and community projects to promote social cohesion and empowerment. Plans include supporting educational programmes, recreational facilities such as the installation of a skate park, and initiatives that engage and empower young people to become active participants in community development.

As voters prepare to head to the polls on June 7th, the candidacy of Alfie O'Sullivan offers a vision of community development that prioritises inclusivity, sustainability, and prosperity.

Whether his platform resonates with the electorate remains to be seen, but O'Sullivan's commitment to addressing pressing issues facing the community has undoubtedly sparked conversation and debate among local residents and businesses. n

Enniscorthy’s Holos has triple cause for celebration!

Joyous celebration for Holos and its owner Niamh Hogan on 1st May 2024 as they officially moved into their new premises at Templeshannon, Enniscorthy.

Above: The successful team at Holos. Right: Niamh with the ‘tweeting goddess’ Samantha Kelly.

Ten Years in Business

New Premises 5 New Awards

Enniscorthy skincare brand Holos won big recently with five accolades at the annual Universal Beauty Awards. Now in their sixth year, the Universal Beauty Awards find the best of makeup and skincare globally. With just over 700 entries in this year's 2024 awards, the competition was fierce to find the best of the best within the beauty industry. Holos won two golds in the awards, including Super Natural Activity Botanical Micellar Pre-Cleanse in the category ‘Best Miscellar Water’. Pre and probiotic Spritz from Holos won in the ‘Best Probiotic Product’ and Super Natural Activity AHA Deep Cleaning Cream / Masque won Silver in the ‘Best Exfoliant’ Award. Love Your Skin Cleansing Cream came Highly Commended in the ‘Best Cream Cleanser product’ category. While Love Your Skin Anti-aging Facial Oil, a super charged all-rounder and Holos’ best seller, was Highly Commended in the Best Anti-aging Facial Oil category.

The innovative Holos skincare brand, handmade in Enniscorthy, is a range of plant-based, vegan, cruelty-free and eco-friendly products. The award-winning products and the complete Holos range are available online at www.holosskincare.com and from pharmacies nationwide.

Proprietor Niamh Hogan with some of her products.

Enniscorthy man’s remarkable journey

Originally from Poland, Enniscorthy resident Adam Hadryś has lived in Ireland since 2007. He’s a long-distance runner and traveller around this beautiful country. Adam has decided to experience his own adventure on the Wild Atlantic Way by completing its full 2,600km length during 2024.

The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest coastal tracks in the world. According to official measurements, the track spans 2,600km. It stretches across the West of Ireland, from the peninsula of Inishowen in the north to the dreamy town of Kinsale in the south. In between those two spots and along the track one finds a powerful ocean, cliffs surrounded by wilderness, as well

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns’ Áine Doyle and Jonathon Hughes with experienced Tidy Towns adjudicator Ann O’Leary (centre), on Vinegar Hill.

as beautiful harbours and beaches.

Due to the immense length of the route, and in order to do it in a responsible manner, Adam is breaking it up into 14 stages. Every part will be an ultra-run which will require serious power and determination on his behalf. Health allowing, he aims to have it all finished by the end of 2024.

Adam tells us, “From my own research, it appears that only one person has completed a full run of the Wild Atlantic Way. This person is Tom Reynolds, an Irish ultra-runner who completed this over the course of 35 days in 2016. This was reported in the

Irish Times. Since then, no one else has taken on the challenge of running the full length of this track solo. I might only be the second person to ever do this, definitely the first Polish person to achieve it if I am successful.”

The 14 stages of the run, the planned dates for each, and the distances are as follows:

Muff-Letterkenny, 30.12.23 -180km (done).

Letterkenny-Bunbeg 2.02.24 -163km (done).

Bunbeg-Donegal Town 1.03.24 -170km (done).

Donegal Town-Ballina 5.04.24 -192km (done).

Ballina-Belmullet 3.05.24 -213km.

Belmullet-Westport 31.05.24 -238km.

Westport-Clifden 28.06.24 -165km.

Clifden-Galway 19.07.24 -176km.

Galway-Kilkee 2.08.24 -164km.

Kilkee-Tralee 30.08.24 -216km.

Tralee-Castlemaine 27.09.24 -150km.

Castlemaine-Kenmare 25.10.24 -175km.

Kenmare-Durus 29.11.24 -210km.

Durrus-Kinsale 30.12.24 -207km.

Adam has now completed the fourth stage from Donegal Town to Ballina which was tough going due to bad weather and strong winds which slowed him down a lot. Our photos show Adam and some of the sights he witnessed on that stage.

The Slaney News will aim to keep our readers updated on Adam's journey in our monthly magazine and also on our Facebook page. And follow Adam on his own page: https://www.facebook.com/adam.hadrys.2023 n

Campaign launch

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy’s local election campaign will be launched by Minister Jack Chambers TD in the River’s Edge, Bunclody, on 9th May at 8pm. All are welcome.

Left: Bad weather and strong winds slowed Adam down on stage 4.

Benbulben – one of the great sights captured by Adam on stage 4.

Safe routes at St Aidan’s School

Completion of ‘Safe Route to School Scheme’ at St. Aidan’s Primary School is marked by visit from Minister of State Jack Chambers

St. Aidan’s Primary School, Enniscorthy, hosted Minister of State Jack Chambers on 22nd April 2024 to mark completion of upgrade works outside the school under the Safe Routes to School Scheme.

Minister Chambers took advantage of the sunny weather to discuss the scheme with students and parents outside the school. The students were happy to engage, and an array of bicycles and scooters were on hand to highlight the different modes of transport used to get to school.

Cllr John Fleming, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, hosted the event, attended by Minister of State James Browne TD, Paul Kehoe TD, Cllr. John O’Rourke, Cllr. Jackser Owens, Cllr. Barbara-Anne

Murphy, Cllr Cathal Byrne and Cllr. Aidan Browne alongside representatives from the NTA, An Taisce and Green Schools.

Cllr. Fleming thanked the Elected Members and school Principal Frank Murphy for their support of the scheme which ‘has seen installation of footpaths and pedestrian crossings surrounding the school to allow students, parents and buggies walk and wheel to school. Traffic speed outside the school has been reduced and the new pencil bollards have stopped cars parking on footpaths.’ Works have also included upgrades to existing junctions at Bohreen Hill and Moran Park to serve people travelling from The Moyne and Bellefield.

School Principal Frank Murphy stressed that the project has child safety as its primary focus and that will always be the priority of St. Aidan’s. Principal Murphy thanked the agencies and design teams involved.

Minister Chambers described Wexford Co. Council as one of the top performers nationally in implementing the scheme having completed Round 1 of Wexford schools.

The Safe Routes to School Scheme is a national programme to improve safety at school gates, increase walking and cycling, and alleviate congestion in front of schools.

The Active Travel Team in Wexford County Council designed and supervised the project with works completed by appointed contractor H&H Group Ltd. n

St Aidan’s Primary School, Enniscorthy, Safe Routes to School: Minister Jack Chambers was on hand last month at St. Aidan’s Primary School in Enniscorthy to cut the ribbon and officially open the Safe Routes to School safety measures which make it safer for children to get to the school.

Minister of State Jack Chambers with Principal Frank Murphy and pupils.

Sustainable Enniscorthy

A

monthly column

The local Sustainable Enniscorthy group reports on its AGM and its Climate Heroes Challenge

Sustainable Enniscorthy AGM

Sustainable Enniscorthy held its 2024 AGM on 5th April in the IFA Centre. Chairperson Irene Cadogan welcomed committee members and guests and outlined activities undertaken by Sustainable Enniscorthy since the last AGM in April 2023. A highlight of 2023 was winning the Wexford County Council Environment Award for ‘Best community project that tackles and reduces the impact of climate change’. Other successful grant applications and projects/events completed since last year included:

ChangeX Repair Cafe hosted three Repair Cafes in June, December and March.

ChangeX Green Plan team climate actions culminated in the Slaney Kayak Clean-up in September.

ChangeX Freshwater Slaney water quality testing project. Sew Saturdays (sewing classes for young people) and Sewing Classes for Adults (two workshops ‘Know your Machine’ and ‘Basic Alterations’).

Two Climate Cafes (April and June).

Heritage Week Biodiversity Talk in August with Eanna Ní Lamhna. National Spring Clean Event in April with Enniscorthy Tidy Towns. Halloween Costume Swap with Wexford County Council Environment Section.

Trees for Wexford campaign by Wexford County Council provided native trees that were planted with the help of Enniscorthy Tidy Towns.

Future Projects discussed included:

Climate Heroes Community Climate Challenge 15-26 April 2024. Sustainable Energy Community Energy Master Plan launch, 14th May 2024 during Climate Week. Repair Cafe.

ChangeX We Count Transport Project.

Community Foundation for Ireland Community Circular Economy Action Plan.

Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) funded suggested water-related events include:

Slaney Kayak & Clean-up, 22 September 2024.

Rain Garden Workshop.

Rainwater Planter Workshop. Biodiversity Talk.

Water Quality Talk.

Natural Attenuation Talk.

Sustainable Enniscorthy is actively seeking new volunteers to help with planning and promoting group activities. Please contact us via our website www.sustainableenniscorthy.com or by email at sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com or by direct message via our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/SustainableEnniscorthy/

If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or be kept informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or Instagram. sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com www.sustainableenniscorthy.com

Contact us to get involved!

Enniscorthy Climate Heroes

A team of 13 volunteers from Sustainable Enniscorthy and Enniscorthy Tidy Towns completed the Climate Heroes Community Climate Challenge, an online team challenge from Global Action Plan Ireland from 15-26 April 2024. The challenge highlights the climate impact of daily habits. Community teams nationwide competed to save carbon by taking climate actions relating to Food, Goods & Services, Energy and Transport. Each activity had a corresponding carbon (CO2) saving. Food activities highlighted the impact of food waste, eating vegan, vegetarian or meat-free meals and less dairy, e.g. logging ‘I ate vegan today’ saved 3.27 kgCO2.

Goods & Services activities encouraged sustainable spending, like donating money and buying second-hand items, e.g., ‘I chose not to buy new today and instead bought second-hand' saved 3.86 kgCO2. Energy activities included lowering heating temperature to reduce energy consumption. ‘I ran the washing machine at a lower temperature today’ (30 degrees or lower) saved 0.02 kgCO2 or ‘I had a body wash instead of a shower today’ saved 0.42 kgCO2.

Transport activities showed the impact of walking, cycling or using public transport to get to work, school or leisure activities. ‘I walked or biked to work today’ saved 6.56 kgCO2 or ‘I took public transport to work today’ saved 4.93 kgCO2.

Nationwide, 443 participants in 59 teams logged 47,000 activities in the challenge, saving 43 tonnes of CO2. This is roughly the same as powering a house for 1,219 days. Co. Wexford ranked 8th in terms of carbon saved among the 17 counties participating in Climate Heroes, thanks to the efforts of only three teams – Sustainable Enniscorthy, Rosslare’s Eco Crusaders Quest and YMCA. The Sustainable Enniscorthy team logged 1,400 activities, with each member saving on average 108 kgCO2. The top three activities were ‘I recycled as much waste as possible’, ‘I switched off unnecessary lights’ and ‘I did not print unnecessary paper’.

Hopefully more community groups will participate in the Climate Heroes Community Climate Challenge in 2025 to raise awareness of the climate impact of daily activities we can all do, and to help change our habits for the better. n

Local groups awarded for service to the community

Over 200 local people attended a Civic Reception held by New Ross Municipal District in the Brandon House Hotel on 18th April 2024 for the Excellence in Service to the Community and Sporting Achievements Awards.

The ceremony honoured a total of 18 individuals / groups from the district previously nominated and endorsed by the members of New Ross Municipal District.

Presentations of a framed, newly commissioned, bronze piece depicting the New Ross crest were made by the New Ross Councillors to each recipient.

Speaking at the event, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District Cllr Anthony Connick said, ‘It is a fantastic opportunity to showcase and recognise excellence in sporting achievements of the sportsmen and sportswomen of the district, whilst it is also fitting to express gratitude and appreciation of the vast number of superb volunteers and community groups for their tireless efforts in serving their communities.

The full list of the recipients honoured with a Civic Award were:

EXCELLENCE IN SPORT:

New Ross Rugby Club – Ladies Team

New Ross Boat Club

Sean Lyng

Ballycullane Ploughing Association

Gusserane Ladies Football Team

Michael (Mikey) Kent

Geraldine O’Hanrahans GAA Club

Poc Fada Winners – Derek Roche

New Ross Rugby Club – Junior Team (U-16 boys)

Kai Butler

Evan Bailey

Denny Bookle

EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE TO COMMUNITY:

Alan Bailey

Rathnure Pantomime Society

Cloughbawn FC

Clonroche Poulpeasty Meals on Wheels

Rathgarogue Community Cooperative Society

Courtnacuddy Development Group n

Above: Rathnure Pantomime Society were presented with their award for Service to the Community by Cllr Brídín Murphy (third from left in front row).

Opposite page top: Clonroche Poulpeasty Meals On Wheels presented with their award for Service to the Community by Cllr Brídín Murphy.

Opposite page centre: Courtnacuddy Development Group presented with their award for Service to the Community by Cllr John Fleming.

Opposite page bottom: Cloughbawn FC presented with their award for Service to the Community by Cllr Brídín Murphy. All Photos: Mary Browne.

New Ross Municipal District Civic Awards in the Brandon House hotel on 18th April 2024.

Cleaning up the Slaney

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns brought their ‘A-game’ to the An Taisce National Spring Clean month which took place in April.

Over 20 volunteers and the GoPaddle.ie team joined forces for a memorable clean-up of the Slaney river on 21st April. A special mention also for the Slaney Search & Rescue volunteers who cleaned up the river in the town area. And another special mention to Fionn and his team at Know-How Media Agency for their fantastic coverage of this event. See: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown/videos/40 6639935556150

Wexford County Council collected the ‘fruits’ of the day’s labour – over 25 bags worth of rubbish from the river itself including fencing, glass, batteries, vapes, farm plastic, oil drums, etc.

The event was kindly sponsored by grant funding from Local Authority Waters Programme.

If you missed this event don’t worry! Sustainable Enniscorthy is planning another event for September. Full details in a future issue of the Slaney News. n

Last few Digital Help Hub dates

IT’S SHOWTIME! IT’S ELECTION SEASON!

For the political animals out there, we are embarking into a cascade of elections. One comes straight after the other bordering on an overdose. The Local and European elections are in June. November, the American Presidential along with House and Senate elections will take centre stage. The Irish and British National elections will follow within a few months. Those are the ones that will make the headlines in our lives but there are many more national elections playing out.

In 2024 almost half the population of the world are voting and most of them will have an impact on the geo-political make up. Ultimately, there are many elections that will have an impact on our lives. Let us have a cursory look at the ones mentioned above.

The Local elections are shaping up to be the most interesting in generations. There are so many unknowns and variables. It appears that this will be an opportunity for the public to send the government a message. I heard from Fianna Fáil insiders that HQ handlers claim that they have a good story to tell. The public is not in the mood to

TOWN TALK

WITH KEITH DOYLE

listen to any stories. The public is responding in kind for not being listened to for a very long time. So how will this impact on the makeup of the seats to be filled. What will the leakage look like and where will it go. If you talk to opposition mentors they push the leakage

up to 30%. This is widely optimistic on their behalf. If it is half that number there will be a shift of power on Wexford County Council. The primary winners will be Sinn Féin and all the polls tell us this. The collection of Independents under the umbrella of Verona Murphy feels that they are providing an alternative. What is for sure is that there will be more than a few new faces around the table.

The European election is more acute. I have noticed many bills rushed through the parliament as it expected to be more fractured and more difficult post election. With the rise of the far right in Europe and the interference from China and Russia anticipated, I don’t blame them for being nervous. All this will weaken NATO and their resolve.

The most concerning is the election in America. Russia seems to have a good hold in influencing politics there. The whole world is watching. This does puzzle me so. The G.O.P. Republican Caucus had a dislike and distrust of the communist USSR. I wonder how many times Ronnie Reagan has spun in his grave. n

A presentation to Kathleen

At the Fine Gael Enniscorthy District AGM last month, a presentation was made to Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan in recognition of her long, distinguished service to Enniscorthy.

Kathleen’s colleague Paul Kehoe TD spoke of how she has served the people of Enniscorthy with integrity, dedication, energy and compassion, and how, as a Councillor, she has been an extremely hard worker, a skilled relationship builder both inside and outside of the Council, and a loyal friend to so many people. He said her efforts and input will be sorely missed by her party and by Enniscorthy Municipal District and Wexford Co. Council “but she has absolutely earned the break. I would like to wish her all the very best in her retirement from the Council.” n

Right: Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan receiving a presentation at the Fine Gael Enniscorthy District AGM last month.

Below: Kathleen canvassing in Ferns with John Mullins, European election candidate, and Pat Kehoe, local election candidate.

Library funding of €2m announced

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law Reform James Browne has confirmed that government funding worth €1.7 million will be directed towards the cost of new and extended library facilities at New Ross Library. More than €4 million in total will be invested in the extension and refurbishment together with the provision of a new mobile library vehicle.

The existing New Ross Library was opened in 1982 as a purpose-built library. The refurbishment and extension of the existing Library will almost double the existing space. The accommodation will be mainly at ground floor level with

some additional floor space at a mezzanine level serviced by a lift. This increased footprint will allow for a wider range of book stock for all ages, increased information technology capability, a dedicated makerspace, sensory equipment and space, exhibitions, a children’s library which allows for leisure reading, activities and school visits, and a quiet area for study and research especially during My Open Library hours.

Welcoming the news, Minister Browne commented, “Library services serve as an integral part of our public services, and I’m delighted that government funding will support the expansion of facil-

ities at New Ross Library. My government colleagues and I are keen to ensure that funding makes a difference in modernising our public library service. That’s why I’m glad that €262,500 in funding has been awarded to support Wexford County Council’s purchase of a next generation mobile library vehicle worth €350,000.

“The mobile library service has proven to be extremely popular across rural villages in Co. Wexford. It forms part of our government’s five year rural development strategy and the recent funding announcement serves as a further example of how this government is delivering for County Wexford communities.” n

A big win for Enniscorthy

Nearly

€1.5m in

funding for Co. Wexford’s rural laneways

Councillor Aidan Browne

Enniscorthy Municipal District Councillor Aidan Browne has welcomed an allocation of €1,470,330 towards the improvement of County Wexford’s rural laneways. County Wexford’s allocation comes from a record funding to the level of €40 million for rural laneways across the country.

Welcoming the announcement, Cllr Browne described this as “welcome news for many County Wexford homeowners who have applied to the Local Improvement Scheme to improve the condition of their lane. As a County Councillor, I regularly meet with people who have applied to the scheme and are urgently seeking improvement works to their lane. Today’s announcement will help to deliver a significant enhancement of a number of County Wexford’s rural laneways. This is a fantastic government-funded scheme under which the homeowners and farmers who use the lane make a small local contribution and the government provides the balance of funding to ensure that people can access their homes and farms on good quality surfaces.

“I’m particularly pleased that Minister Humphreys has listened to feedback related to the scheme. Her amendment requiring the inclusion of just one herd number instead of two will make an important difference to many County Wexford residents, who can now apply for the inclusion of their laneway within the scheme.” n

Ireland's first Passive House office building, Senan House in Enniscorthy’s Technology Park, was officially recognised at the Building & Architect of the Year Awards 2024 last month as local firm, MosArt Architects, won the Sustainability Award for a Single Building or Development – incredible recognition for the ground-breaking design and sustainable achievements of Senan House. Pic: Enjoy Enniscorthy.

HOPE & DREAM 10

This year’s Hope & Dream 10km and 10 mile event took place in Enniscorthy on Sunday, April 7th, with the option again this year of doing a virtual event. In total 1,675 people registered – an amazing achievment for the Hope Cancer Support Centre and all the volunteers who helped out before, during and after the event.

All proceeds will go to supporting Hope Cancer services such as support worker assessment and support, counselling, reflexology, massage, lymphoedema treatment, bra and prosthesis fitting, and support groups.

Check out http://www.hopeanddream10.com and https://www.facebook.com/hopeanddream10 for more information on the event.

And see ‘David Butler Photography’ on Facebook for photos of all the participants. n

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE

OUT AND ABOUT WITH PAT O’CONNOR

087-2870006

Anne M

Millesa Dreelan and Davy Byrne.

Marie Foley and Marie Foley.

Philip Hughes and Anne Dillon.

Above centre: Caroline Doyle and Marion Galvin. Below left: Joan Stone, Mary Slye, Mary Ann Foley and Margaret Taylor. Below centre: Bill Murphy. Bottom centre: Paul Hempenstall and Niamh Keegan. Bottom right: Rosaleen and Margaret Byrne.

Always lots happening at GreenTechHQ based in the Enniscorthy Technology Park

Want to boost your sales skills and stay ahead in the market? Join GreenTechHQ for an exciting workshop on "B2B Consultative Selling Process Step by Step" in collaboration with Skillnet Innovation Exchange.

Date: Thursday, 9th May, 10:00am to 2:30pm, at GreenTechHQ, Y21 A9K8.

Dr. Maria Coakley, a seasoned lecturer and SME mentor, will guide you through the essential elements of a successful sales strategy. This interactive workshop is perfect for anyone looking to refine their organisation's approach to sales. Spaces are limited, so register now at https://tinyurl.com/3dn97tvp n

Embark on Your Sustainability Journey with the GreentechHQ ESG Training Courses sponsored by AIB.

Are you ready to lead your business towards a sustainable future? GreenTech HQ invites you to join their ESG Sustainability Training courses! Tailored for SMEs, these programmes range from introductory to advanced levels, empowering you with the tools and knowledge to embed sustainability into the heart of your business.

From Monday the 13th May onwards. Early Bird starts from €299.

Unlock new opportunities, drive innovation, and lead with resilience. Build a sustainable tomorrow, today.

Register now and transform your business! https://greentechhq.com/esg-sustainabilitytraining/ n

Enniscorthy Community College

Great range of courses available at Enniscorthy Community College. Check them out at: https://www.enniscorthyccfe.ie/prospectus/mobile/index.html n

Information sharing

Wexford County Council has developed a free online information sharing portal for not-for-profit community owned facilities to inform the public and promote usage. You can submit facility details at: https://arcg.is/1nnjev n

Oulart storytelling house

At Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart, a great welcome awaits all, with good music, songs, stories and plenty of craic, tea and refreshments served. Eircode: Y25 YP70. For details of upcoming events keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/bygonedayshouseofstories n

Enniscorthy Toastmasters

The group meeets fortnightly on Tuesdays in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, at 8pm. All welcome! https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthy-Toastmasters129333810455771 for updates. n

ENNISCORTHY FÁILTE

WELCOMING UKRAINIAN REFUGEES

CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthyfailte

Email: enniscorthyfailte@gmail.com

Enniscorthy Library events

For upcoming Enniscorthy Library events see: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary n

Enniscorthy Christian Fellowship

Enniscorthy Christian Fellowship would like to invite all women over 16 years of age to its free Ladies Easter Craft Night on Friday 8th March at 7.30pm behind Bellefield Design, Reachability, Enniscorthy. Tea and cakes will be served. All ladies are welcome to join.

For more information contact Lorna on 085 1367341 or check out the website www.enniscorthychristianfellowship.ie n

Enniscorthy Women Walking Together

The group meets Monday - Thursday at Eurogiant Carpark at 7pm and also has a WhatsApp group. Check out their Facebook page: ‘Enniscorthy Women Walking Together’. n

ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS NEEDS YOU!

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers meet on Sunday mornings to collect litter and tidy up around the town. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed! So if you are sick of seeing rubbish on your road, street, estate or elsewhere in the community, please contact: 053 923 6518 or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com

Keep up to date on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown Let's all help to make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener! n

Far Right or Hard Left

We hear a lot nowadays about the Far Right and the growing influence of that through Europe and of course in Ireland. Certain Hard Left commentators and activists would have us believe that in a year or two the Far Right, with the emphasis on Far, will take over the majority of countries governments and create fascist states. The reality is far different. There is of course a Far Right, mostly on social media where very often less is more, who manage to capture headlines on a regular basis on certain issues. The Hard Left is no different in this regard and has the same intolerance for the views of others as their opponents on the other side. However, in the middle is the vast majority of people whose views are reasonably moderate and sensible on most issues. When it comes to elections the electorate is no pushover for Right or Left. In general, issues of the day dictate the outcome whether the matter is seen as Right or Left. In Ireland in recent times the debate on immigration has stolen the headlines and has been exploited by the tiny Far Right who say that no one should be allowed into the country and the Hard Left who want open borders. Again, the thinking of most people is in the middle. The vast majority of people fully recognise the contribution of immigrants who have legally arrived here and play a major role in so many of the services in this country both in the public and private sector. Many public services such as health and care would collapse without their contribution and many educational establishments would suffer without the input that foreign academics bring. The private sector has a massive input from immigrants in technical and other professional fields and in the hospitality industry and many of our industries depend on the contribution and expertise from overseas.

‘‘,, View from the Centre

A local contributor, based in the centre of the county, looks at life today in Co. Wexford and beyond

As stated, the majority of Irish people are very comfortable with this and are not going to be influenced by any rhetoric from either side. Where the problem arises is with the influx of asylum seekers whose cases are not being decided in an efficient manner leading to the present chaos which we see in that system. No country should leave itself in a position where thousands of people languish in a noman’s land for years without any hope of a resolution to their cases. They should be told either that they are in or out within a reasonable period, say three months, and if you are in that

“In the middle is the vast majority of people whose views are reasonably moderate and sensible on most issues.”

you become part of a functioning society and that no extra or lesser benefits will be conferred on you than would be available to any other person living in the country. This should be visible and transparent to enable everyone in the country to be aware that this is the case. This approach will remove the ability of either Right or Left to exploit what is clearly a very difficult situation. The outcome of the incompetence of successive governments over the past few years in relation to this issue has certainly pushed people who would not normally be hugely active in politics to take one side or the other of the deport or remain discussion. That is not to say that they are either Far Right or Hard Left. They are merely expressing a genuinely held view on either side of a contentious debate. The outcome of the local elections is likely to see a devastating defeat for government parties because of this issue, but not this issue alone. Housing, Health, Cost of Living, State of our Roads, Lack of Broadband and other essential infrastructure, Green issues which many see as way too expensive, and other more local issues. It is very important that the tiny Far Right or the miniscule Hard Left not be allowed any credit for any collapse in the government parties vote on the basis that it is all about their issue which is purely immigration.

Benefit of Elections

The democratic process is very important because it allows us to decide who will represent us for the next number of years. It also has a more immediate side effect. Almost every road requiring surfacing or pothole which needs filling for the past five years seems to magically get done in the few weeks before the election. So maybe we could have elections more often! n

Traffic-stopping content...for your business! ★ SEO-optimised website content ★ Unique product descriptions ★ Expert article writing ★ Top quality blog content for your business

Discover how Copywriting by Changing Lanes can help bring more traffic to your website and connect you with more customers for your products and services.

Professional copywriting and editorial services based in Co. Wexford. Phone: 087-7946277. Email: caroline@changinglanes.ie

Audiology - Hearing Aids Micro suction wax removal Audiologist of the year winner 3 Slaney Place, Enniscorthy, Y21 W4C9 Tel: 053 92 52111 www.doylehearingsolutions.com

Facebook: Doyle Hearing Solutions

“You don’t have to wear a w coat – it’s all about what’s

Like Alice in Wonderland, they are curious. How do you cure disease? How do you solve poverty? How do you end conflict and wars? What algorithms do you need to smash Fermat’s Last Theorem or Fibonacci’s Golden Ratio? Is AI the ultimate answer to everything? How do you make a business from recycling leftover leaves of lettuce after preparation of lunch when you know that 50% of salad leaves are waste?

The beauty of science is that it’s all around us and we should all feel empowered to be part of it, says Dr Ruth Freeman, Director of Science for Society at SFI, otherwise Science Foundation Ireland.

If you’re a curious kind of person, you may already be doing science. Science is all for what’s next, creating the future for all of us in the world to live better, easier, more enjoyably, healthier, less expensively and longer. “To be a scientist, you don’t have to have a white coat and be working in a laboratory,” said Dr Ruth.

At the Wexford Science Café, hosted by retired senior lecturer in DCU Brian Trench (who is former president of the Public Communication of Science and Technology network), Dr Ruth spoke with a 20-member group of Wexfordbased scientists and engineers.

Dr Ruth will be familiar to listeners fol-

“Ireland to become world-class in new research body, Taighde Éireann.” – Dr Ruth Freeman, Director of Science for Society, Science Foundation Ireland

lowing Pat Kenny on Newstalk radio, where she talks to Ireland on environmental matters. She and her family are well-known in their Wexford home in the Sigginstown-Tacumshane area, to where they escape from their other life in Dublin.

Ideas from researchers in Ireland

Said Dr Ruth, “Loosely and broadly, anyone who channels and converts STEM-related curiosity into disciplined, methodical interrogation and analysis could be considered as being of a scientific disposition. People with curious minds who explore concepts through trial and error are conducting their own scientific research, you could argue.”

STEM education, she explained, is science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Most of the money from SFI is given to universities, whose students are already accomplished in STEM. “Of course, professional scientists spend years honing in-depth knowledge about their particular discipline.”

What many don’t realise is that SFI is linked to the best brains on Earth and when someone presents a proposal, SFI collaborates with fellow scientists all around the world to help them come up with solutions.

“Everywhere from Brisbane to Harvard to California to Bonn, we have people who are reading ideas from researchers in Ireland and telling us what they think about them.”

Carbon emissions on a Dairy Farm

“Sometimes we invite researchers to work on very specific problems such as trying to come up with a way to cut the carbon emissions on a dairy farm. We ask them to put their brainpower to quite practical problems. We do that in the form of a competition, which really helps to accelerate discovery. We’re doing that now for the European Commission, Irish Aid, the Defence forces and for lots of other organisations who would like researchers help them solve the challenges that they have,” said Dr Ruth.

Projects in Co. Wexford and South East

Since its establishment over 20 years ago, SFI has supported numerous science initiatives in Wexford and the South East.

Chief among these have been the SFI Research Centre awards e.g. CONNECT SFI Research Centre for Future Networks and Communications; FutureNeuro SFI Research Centre for Chronic and Rare Neurological Diseases, I-Form SFI Research Centre for Advanced Manufacturing, VistaMilk SFI Research Centre for Digitalising Dairy Production and Processing; LERO SFI Research Centre for Software; and SSPC SFI Research Centre for Pharmaceuticals, among others.

In addition, there have been numerous other individual researcher awards provided for South East-based initiatives including SFI Discover Centre funding for Wexford Wildfowl Reserve, Bricks 4 Kidz in Wexford Town, ‘Sustainable Communities’ National Challenge Funding for Enniscorthy, and funding for WexSci, the Wexford regional Science Week festival, which offers a programme of brilliant events across the county for all ages and interests.

SFI has funded some very interesting research in the South East – for example, to understand congenital heart diseases, using AI to accurately predict food spoilage and remaining shelf-life, and building a digital tool for unemployed citizens.

Brian Trench, Wexford Science Café, with Dr Ruth Freeman, Science Foundation Ireland.

white next”

“Our approach is about identifying research excellence, regardless of its geographical location.”

Curious about outcomes

These scientists are very serious people with a very serious remit. They grapple with next to impossible ‘moon-shot’ and ‘earth-shot’ problems until they find solutions. And even on succeeding, they will be curious for years to come about the outcomes and how to make things even better.

Science Week

Science Week, which is run by SFI every November, is an opportunity for everyone to get involved in discussions about science –and could be a way for someone to bring a new idea to light!

sun and tried to make sense of everything for them, including the Internet and Genetic Modification (GM) and Genomes and Frankenstein food and how the public might perceive that we are “messing with things that we’re not supposed to be messing with and interfering with things that are not natural”.

She said that in the late ‘90s, plenty of people sounded the alarm about what might happen if we allowed Internet technologies to be unfettered and to be primarily controlled by the private sector.

Speaking to herself, the very curious Alice in Wonderland said: “That’s just the trouble with me. I give myself very good advice, but I very seldom follow it. It would be so nice if something made sense for a change.”

At the Wexford Science café, held in Wexford Library, Dr Ruth answered questions from the assembled scientists and engineers about everything under the

Value for Money

Many of those warnings came to pass.

On GM, sixty Nobel laureates said we have underinvested in technology for GM agriculture. In the face of climate change, we need to feed people. We will likely need to modify crops using GM so that they are resistant to drought, to high temperatures and to whole new ways of plant pandemics that will sweep across the globe with climate change.

All the investment that SFI makes in research, education and public engagement is taxpayers’ money. Ensuring value for money is paramount. All applications for funding, big and small, are, therefore, subject to strict eligibility criteria and are rigorously scrutinised and evaluated.

Support for research is provided across a broad range of funding programmes, for individuals and groups.

Got a pretty good record

“I feel we got the reaction wrong on both counts. It’s not that the technology was fundamentally good or bad, both outside and inside. Where we failed was the public conversation. We were really hearing from an elite group. There’s no right answer, but I think we’ve got a pretty good record in finding sensible ways forward. A lot of the dialogue was steered by the social scientists rather than the scientists,” said Dr Ruth.

And so the debate raged on in the minds of the assembled at the Wexford Science Café.

Amalgamating SFI and Irish Research Council

Dr Ruth, Professor Philip Nolan (Director General of SFI) and their staff get roughly €240 million from the Government to spend on science research. Later this year, they will be integrated into a powerful new research body.

The Research and Innovation Bill is currently going through the Oireachtas. It’s now at Committee stage in the Seanad. This will see Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) and the Irish Research Council (IRC) amalgamate to form a new agency called Research Ireland – Taighde Éireann.

In the coming months, once the legislation is enacted, the new agency will be established. “It's an important and exciting development for us within the two organisations and, in particular, for researchers and the wider research ecosystem,” said Dr Ruth.

Research Ireland will be on the frontline in the world for what’s next in the world and in creating a better future for all of us.

– M.F.

Driving world-class research and innovation in Ireland

The new agency, Taighde Éireann or Research Ireland, will fund research and innovation excellence in all disciplines across the spectrum of Arts, Engineering, Humanities, Mathematics, Science, Social Sciences, Technology and others. In making competitive funding awards across all disciplines and of varying sizes, and to researchers at all career stages, the agency should significantly broaden the access of researchers in all areas to an improved range of research funding programmes.

L-R: Mary Duggan, Cliona Farrelly and Gerald Fleming at the SFI talk.

Climate Action Week is about raising awareness on actions and measures we can all do at a personal and local level and to showcase some of the projects and initiatives underway across our County.

Wexford County Council recently adopted its Climate Action Plan 2024-2029. The plan sets out the Council’s commitment in demonstrating a leadership role of inspiring, influencing and facilitating individuals, communities, and other sectors in taking climate action.

The week serves as a platform to inspire action and drive positive change at local level. Attendance at the Climate Action Week events is

Monday, 13th May

SEAI Home Energy Grant Information Evening –Maudlintown & Faythe areas, Wexford Town

Wexford Town Sustainable Energy Community will host a community information evening for residents in the Maudlintown and Faythe areas of Wexford Town which will outline the details of the SEAI “Individual Energy Upgrade Grants”. The event will provide an opportunity to discover more about SEAI home energy upgrade options and to find out if your home is eligible.

Time: 7pm – 9pm.

Date: Monday, 13th May, 2024.

Location: St. John of God Primary School, The Faythe, Wexford Y35YT38.

Tuesday, 14th May

Enniscorthy Community Allotments Tour

A community allotment has many environmental benefits including reducing food waste by eating only what you grow and eating local produced fruit and vegetables helps to lower carbon emissions from transportation. Community Allotments can also provide an opportunity to meet new people, learn gardening skills, and improve health and wellbeing. For some people, allotments provide a little oasis to which they can retreat, for others it's the sense of achievement of growing their own food. If you’re interested in witnessing first-hand how an allotment works, this is your opportunity to do so.

Time: 1pm – 3pm.

Date: Tuesday, 14th May, 2024.

Location: Enniscorthy Community Allotments Y21T2Y0. No advance booking required.

Community & Home Energy Clinic, Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy

Sustainable Enniscorthy and the Climate Action Team of Wexford County Council will host an Energy Clinic for homeowners and community groups to provide expert ad-

free, with booking required for some events.

The following events, listed in date order, are scheduled to take place during Wexford County Council Climate Action Week (Monday 13th to Sunday 19th May, 2024).

If you have any questions about an event, please email climateaction@wexfordcoco.ie

For details on all the events happening around the county, visit: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/environment-and-climate-change/climate-action/events-and- climate-action-wexford-newsletters-1

vice on energy savings, retrofit upgrades and accessing the various SEAI grants.

Energy Advisors from the South East Energy Agency will be on hand to provide one-to-one advice relevant to your particular home / community building so bring along some details about your home such as ESB bills, approximate floor area, year built, home heating fuel consumption, etc. Advice will also be available from various contractors specialising in solar panels, insulation, heat pumps and boiler maintenance, as well as finance options available through Enniscorthy Credit Union.

You will receive a FREE TFI Leap card with €10 credit with your one-to-one energy advice consultation when you book in advance. Slots are limited so book early for a time that suits you – click here

https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/community-and-homeenergy-clinic

TFI Local Link Wexford will have a stand at the event so make sure to drop by and find out about their bus services in Enniscorthy. They will also be running a competition on their social channels for another chance to win TFI Leap cards with €10 credit.

Time: 4pm – 8pm.

Date: Tuesday, 14th May, 2024.

Location: Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy Y21T2F4. For further information and to book a time slot, click here https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/community-and-homeenergy-clinic

Wednesday, 15th May

Open Farm Site Visit

Are you interested in seeing the measures farms can take relating to climate action, water quality and biodiversity? Future Farm Signpost Programme Open Farm Event. On the farm of Shay Ryan, New Ross, Co. Wexford Y34 W310.

Time: 11am – 1pm.

Date: Wednesday, 15th May, 2024.

Location: Rochestown, Cushinstown Y34W310.

Parking: Available on the farm.

A bus is being provided free of charge from County Hall, Carricklawn (Y35 WY93) to the dairy farm in Cushinstown (Y34 W310). Bus places are limited.

To reserve a seat, please email climateaction@wexfordcoco.ie or telephone 087-2139870.

This event is open to all farmers and members of the public.

Wednesday, 15th May

Rhyme time (Biodiversity theme), Bunclody Library

Join us for stories, songs and rhymes for 0-5 years.

Time: 11.15am.

Date: Wednesday, 15th May, 2024.

Location: Bunclody Library Y21 E970.

Further details available on the Wexford County Council website at: www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries

All welcome – no booking required.

Wednesday, 15th May

Bolt eBike Demonstration & Trial, Wexford

By opting to swap the car for active transport (even for just one day a week), you are playing your part in helping tackle the climate crisis. Shifting to active transport helps lower our dependency on fossil fuels and personal CO2 emissions from transport.

Wexford County Council’s Active Travel Department, in association with Sports Active Wexford and supported by Climate Action Wexford, are holding this event, one of many, to mark National Bike week 2024.

It offers an opportunity to meet with a Bolt eBike representative who can talk you through downloading and setting up the app on your phone and go through the basics of accessing a bike. Sports Active Wexford staff will then assist you try out an eBike in a safe, off-road environment in the grounds of County Hall.

Time: 2.30pm – 4.30pm.

Date: Wednesday, 15th May, 2024.

Location: Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford Y35WY93.

Suitability: Over 18s. Beginners to eBikes or those returning to cycling after some time. Also aimed at those who need assistance with using the Bolt app which unlocks the eBikes for use.

To book your place, please email: cyclingofficer@wexfordcoco.ie

Thursday, 16th May

Learn to Cycle with Balance Bike Buddies, Enniscorthy

(Organised directly with Schools)

A fun, learn to cycle session with Daniella and Emma from Balance Bike Buddies!

Encouraging children to cycle at an early stage not only benefits their health but also gets them into the habit of using active transport which in turn helps the environment.

This event is being organised by Wexford County Council’s Active Travel Department, directly with local schools and will take place at the new Learn to Cycle Park in Enniscorthy.

Time: 9.30am – 2.45pm

Date: Thursday, 16th May, 2024

Location: Enniscorthy Learn to Cycle Park, (opposite Enniscorthy Sports Hub, Gort na Gréine, Enniscorthy).

Suitability: Beginners.

For more information, email: cyclingofficer@wexfordcoco.ie

Thursday, 16th May

Open House Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB), Wexford

A Nearly Zero Energy Building (nZEB) is a building that has a very high energy performance, while the nearly zero or very low amount of energy required should be covered to a very significant extent by energy from renewable sources produced either on-site or nearby.

If you would like to learn more about this initiative, please come view our nZEB Open House.

Time: 11am – 1pm.

Date: Thursday, 16th May, 2024.

Location: Unit 32, Ard na Gaoithe, Whitebrook, Whiterock Hill, Wexford Y35RFX6.

Description: 3 bed, own door ground floor apartment. Wheelchair accessible.

Click here https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/near-zeroenergy-building-nzeb-open-house-wexford for further information.

No booking required.

Thursday, 16th May

Energy Efficiency Clinic, Rosslare Strand Rosslare Community Development Group, supported by Wexford County Council, will host a drop-in Energy Clinic for homeowners and community groups to provide advice on energy savings, retrofit upgrades and accessing funding. An SEAI advisor will be on hand to explain the various grants and supports available. Advice will also be available from various contractors specialising in solar panels, insulation, heat pumps and general retrofit measures.

Time: 4pm – 8pm.

Date: Thursday, 16th May, 2024.

Location: Coast Hotel, Rosslare Strand Y35Y93X. No booking required. Drop in anytime between 4pm-8pm.

Friday, 17th May

Food Waste Event, Bunclody

Separating food waste is a positive climate action that we can all make.

An information stand will be located in the Square, Bunclody to encourage everyone to recycle food waste by providing practical advice along with hints and tips. Food waste is a big issue, as wasted food can sometimes end up in landfill where it will produce methane which is a harmful greenhouse gas; this combined with the resources used to get the food to us, the consumers, and then wasting this food can have significant impacts on the environment. The recycling of food waste diverts this important resource from landfill and allows it to be transformed into renewable energy and fertilisers for horticulture and agriculture use in Ireland.

If you would like to learn more about segregating your food waste drop into the Wexford County Council information stand at the Market Square, Bunclody.

Subject to availability, attendees will receive a food waste caddy, each with a starter pack of caddy liners and an information leaflet.

Time: 11am – 2pm.

Date: Friday, 17th May, 2024.

Location: The Square, Bunclody.

No booking required. Drop in anytime between 11am-2pm.

Friday, 17th May

Ballymoney Community Group – Farm & Beach Visit Ballymoney Community Group will host an event to help communities adapt to the consequences of climate change, with a focus on:

- Dealing with more dramatic rainfall events.

- Flooding, river bank erosion, silt, soil and nutrient loss.

- Water management and nature based solutions.

Date: Friday 17th May, 2024

3.00pm - Meet / park in farmyard at Ballinacarrig, Tara Hill Y25 AN22 – the farm where Ballymoney stream rises. See water retention measures constructed during the Ballymoney EIP project, walk to the farm’s wet woodland which combines water nutrient/silt retention and carbon store values. Bring raingear & boots!

4.30pm - Ballymoney South Beach where the stream enters the sea. Short fieldtrip to Ballymoney stream to see firsthand the issues such as including collapsing riverbanks and view solutions from hard engineering gabions to willow planting, to making room for the stream with ponds and overflows in Wood Walls.

Event led by Joe Roche, Paul and Karin Dubsky. Places limited. To book your place, please email climateaction@wexfordcoco.ie

Saturday, 18th May

“Earth” themed Activities, Enniscorthy Library

To mark Climate Action Week, Enniscorthy Library is delighted to provide “earth” themed activities for all the family to enjoy. Story time, a recyclable craft table and a family film are just some of the activities on offer. Perfect for 3-5 years old but fun for everyone!

Time: 10.30am.

Date: Saturday, 18th May, 2024. Location: Enniscorthy Library Y21AD92.

Further details available on the Wexford County Council website at: www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries

All welcome – no booking required.

Saturday, 18th May

Climate Action Week:

Under the Sea Creation Station

Time: 11am.

Date: Saturday, 18th May, 2024.

Location: Bunclody Library Y21 E970.

Pop into Bunclody Library to create a sea animal craft. This is a family-led creative event where families are invited to sit down, relax and make some wonderful creations together. All materials will be provided.

If you require additional assistance to participate in this event, please contact the library on 053 9375466.

Further details available on the Wexford County Council website at: www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries

All welcome – no booking required.

Saturday, 18th May

Bike Picnic and Family Slow Roll, Gorey Town Park

Wexford County Council’s Active Travel Department in association with Gorey Pedestrian and Cycling Association, is holding a fun morning with bike themed events in Gorey Town Park. Events include a short Family Slow Roll in Gorey Town in association with Gorey Pedestrian and Cycle Association. Balance Bike Buddies will also be on hand to teach some basic cycling skills to younger children.

Time: 11am – to 1pm.

Date: Saturday, 18th May, 2024.

Location: Gorey Town Park and local streets of Gorey, Co. Wexford.

Suitability: All. Competent cyclists only on the Slow Roll as this takes place on the public streets. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

For more information, please email: cyclingofficer@wexfordcoco.ie

Saturday, 18th May

Climate Action Week Creative Lego challenge

Come along to Bunclody Library and get creative with our Lego.

Suitable for 7-12 year olds, all Lego pieces will be provided. Should you require any additional supports to enable you to fully participate in this event, please contact the Librarian on 053 9375466.

Time: 2.30pm – 3.30pm.

Date: Saturday, 18th May, 2024.

Location: Bunclody Library Y21 E970.

Booking required. Parents must remain in library for duration of event. Please book for the child only. Phone 053 9375466 to book your place.

Sunday, 19th May

Biodiversity Cycle to Wexford Wildfowl Reserve with Wexford Bicycle Users Group (WexBUG) A social cycling tour from Ferrybank to Wexford Wildfowl Reserve with WexBUG. Coffee and cake on Wexford Quay afterwards. Supported by Irish Cycling Campaign and Irish Environmental Network.

Time: 11am.

Date: Sunday, 19th May.

Location: Ferrybank (Wexford Town) to Wexford Wildfowl Reserve and back to Wexford Quay.

Suitability: Basic cycling ability – will include some busy road – but mostly quiet roads. Everyone joining must have a roadworthy bicycle, a helmet, hi-viz and appropriate clothing.

For more information or to book your place, email: georginagaul@gmail.com

ADDITIONAL EVENTS:

For details of other climate-related events outside Climate Action Week, please refer to the Wexford County Council website www.wexfordcoco.ie

Climate Action Week coincides with National Bike Week 2024 which takes place 11th – 19th May, 2024.

For information on Wexford Bike Week events, please refer to the Wexford County Council website www.wexfordcoco.ie

National Biodiversity Week Ireland 2024 takes place 17th – 26th May, 2024.

Information on local and national events available on the website www.biodiversityweek.ie n

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads

Wexford County Council gives notice of its intention to pedestrianise the roads listed hereunder and to temporary close the listed roads to vehicular traffic on Saturday 1 June 2024 and Sunday 2 June 2024 to facilitate the holding of the Enniscorthy Street Rhythm Festival 2024.

Road Closures No. 1: Main Street, Castle Street (between the junction of Duffry Street and Main Street with Irish Street to the junction of Castle Street with Castle Hill and Church Street) and Rafter Street, Weafer Street (R702) (from its junction with Castle Street and Market Square to its junction with Duffry Hill).

Date and Time: From 11:00 to 22:00 on Saturday 1 June 2024.

Road Closures No. 2: Main Street, Castle Street, Castle Hill (R702), (between the junction of Duffry Street and Main Street with Irish Street and roundabout at Abbey Square) and Rafter Street, Church Street, Court Street, Weafer Street (R702) (from its junction with Castle Street and Market Square to its junction with Duffry Hill).

Date and Time: From 09:00 to 22:00 on Sunday 2 June 2024.

Alternative Route: HCV Traffic (Eastbound) Duffry Hill to Parnell Road to Arnold’s Cross to Mill Park Road to Abbey Square Roundabout via R890 and R744.

Alternative Route: HCV Traffic (Westbound) Roundabout on Abbey Square to Mill Park Road to Arnold’s Cross to Parnell Road to Duffry Hill via R744 and R890.

Alternative Route: Local non-HCV traffic (Eastbound only) Junction of Duffry Street and Main Street to Irish Street to Island Road (R772) to Old Bridge The Shannon Quay to Seamus Rafter Bridge to Abbey Square Roundabout.

Alternative Route: Local non-HCV traffic (Westbound only) From Abbey Square Roundabout (R744) to Junction of Mill Park Road (R744) to Friary Hill to Court Street to Hospital hill to Parnell Road (R890).

Alternative routes will be signposted. No Vehicular Access will be facilitated.

Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 14 May 2024 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.

Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following posts:

Assistant Scientist (Water Quality).

ESF+ Social Innovation in Sports Officer (Grade V) (3 year contract).

Pilot/Assistant Marine Officer.

Selection for all posts will be by means of interview and candidates may be shortlisted based on applications submitted. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.

Qualifications, application forms and further particulars for all posts are available from our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie

Please note all applications for the above posts must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie

Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above posts.

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for the posts of Assistant Scientist (WQ) & ESF+ Social Innovation in Sports Officer (Grade V): 5.00pm on Thursday 16th May, 2024.

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for the post of Pilot/Assistant Marine Officer: 5.00pm on Thursday 30th May, 2024.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)

Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended)

Notice of Proposed Development by a Local Authority LAC2403

Location: Gorey Market House, Main Street, Gorey, Co. Wexford.

(Goreycorporationlands T.D., Gorey Urban E.D.)

Pursuant to Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and in accordance with Part 8, Article 81 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council proposes to carry out the development, the nature and extent of which is set out hereunder:

Renovation & alterations to Gorey Market House, Main Street, Gorey, Co Wexford (A PROTECTED STRUCTURE – RPS No. WCC0213 – NIAH Ref. No. 15601064) AND new building with link to Market House & external works to surrounding lands. Archaeological and Architectural Impact Assessments will be available for inspection. See application form for full description of works.

Comhairle Contae Loch Garman

Based on a preliminary examination of the nature, size and location of the development, there is no likelihood of significant effects on the environment and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) is not required.

Any person may, within 4 weeks from the date of the notice, apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.

Plans and particulars of the proposed development will be available for inspection, or purchase at a reasonable fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during office hours from Wednesday 1 May 2024 to Wednesday 29 May 2024, at the following location and may be viewed online at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning:

 Wexford County Council, Planning Department, Carricklawn, Wexford.

 Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District, Civic Square, The Avenue, Gorey, Co. Wexford.

Submissions or observations with respect to the above proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made in writing on or before Wednesday 12 June 2024 to: Wexford County Council, Planning Department, (Reference LAC2403), Carricklawn, Wexford.

Fáiltíonn

Comhairle Contae

Loch Garman roimh iarratasóirí do na poist seo a leanas: Eolaí Cúnta (Cáilíocht Uisce).

Oifigeach um Nuálaíocht Shóisialta i gCúrsaí Spóirt do Chiste Sóisialta na hEorpa+ (CSE+) (Grád V) (Conradh 3 bliana).

Oifigeach Muirí Píolótach/Cúnta.

Is trí agallamh a dhéanamh a dhéanfar rogha do na poist go léir agus d’fhéadfaí iarratasóirí a chur ar ghearrliosta bunaithe ar na hiarratais a chuirfear ar aghaidh. D’fhéadfaí painéil a bhunú óna bhféadfaí folúntais a líonadh amach anseo.

Tá fáil ar cháilíochtaí, foirmeacha iarratais agus sonraí breise do na poist go léir ár an láithreán gréasáin atá againn ar www.wexfordcoco.ie

Tabhair ar aird nach mór gach iarratas ar na poist thuasluaite a Chlóscríomh agus a chur ar aghaidh ar Ríomhphost amháin chuig recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie

NÍ GHLACFAR le cóipeanna crua priontáilte do na poist thuasluaite.

An dáta deiridh a ghlacfar le foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe do na poist Eolaí Cúnta (Cáilíocht Uisce) & Oifigeach um Nuálaíocht Shóisialta i gCúrsaí Spóirt do CSE+ (Grád V) ná: 5.00pm Déardaoin an 16 Bealtaine 2024.

An dáta deiridh a ghlacfar le foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe don phost Oifigeach Muirí Píolótach/Cúnta ná: 5.00pm Déardaoin an 30 Bealtaine 2024.

Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna é Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.

Notice of Election

Local Authority: Wexford County Council.

An election of members for each of the local electoral areas of the above-mentioned local authority is about to be held.

Nomination papers may be obtained from the address below during the usual office hours.

A person may nominate himself/herself as a candidate or may, with his/her consent, be nominated by a proposer who is registered as a local government elector in the local electoral area of the local authority for which he/she proposes to nominate the candidate.

A nomination paper from a candidate of a registered political party must have a certificate of political affiliation attached which must be produced to me with his/her completed nomination paper.

If no certificate is attached, the candidate must, before the latest time for receiving nominations, either-

 secure 15 assents to the nomination by way of statutory declarations by local government electors registered in the relevant local electoral area (forms available from me or the registration authority), or

 make a deposit of €100 (deposit may also be made on the candidate’s behalf).

The latest time for receiving nominations is 12 noon on the 18th day of May, 2024.

Completed nomination papers may be delivered to me in person by the candidate or his/her proposer at any time when I am at my office, from 10am on the 11th day of May, 2024 until 12 noon on the last day for receiving nominations.

I am required by law to attend to receive nominations between 10am and 12 noon and between 2pm and 5pm on the 17th day of May, 2024 and between 10am and 12 noon on the 18th day of May, 2024.

If the election is contested, a poll will be taken on the 7th day of June, 2024 between the hours of 7am and 10pm.

Michael Drea Returning Officer

Address:

Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Newtown Road, Wexford Y35 WY93.

Date: 1st May, 2024.

Section 75 of Roads Act 1993

Temporary Closing of Roads

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Wednesday 8 May to Wednesday 31 July 2024 to facilitate urgent upgrade works to the water network in Mayglass.

Road Closure: L-7095-1 at Middletown / Courtlands West, from its junction with the L-3046-4 at Courtlands East (Mayglass Village) to the junction with the L-9007-1 at Shouks.

Alternative Route: Via the L-3046 towards Leache's Cross Roads, along the L-7094 at Bog East, onto the R-736 at the Cross Roads of the Rath heading towards Bridgetown and then onto the L-3047, finishing at Shouks Cross Roads and vice versa.

Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated.

Fógra Toghcháin

Údarás Áitiúil: Comhairle Contae Loch Garman

Táthar ar tí toghchán a reáchtáil chun comhaltaí do gach aon cheann de thoghlimistéir áitiúla a thoghadh don údarás áitiúil atá luaite thuas. Is féidir páipéir ainmniúcháin a fháil ón seoladh thíos le linn gnáthuaire oifige.

Féadfaidh duine é féin nó í féin a ainmniú mar iarrthóir i dtoghchán nó féadfaidh duine eile (is duine atá cláraithe mar thoghthóir rialtais aitiúil i limistéar an údaráis áitiúil a bhfuil sé beartaithe ag an duine an t-iarrthóir a ainmniú dó), mar mholtóir, é nó í a ainmniú, lena thoiliú nó lena toiliú i scríbhinn.

Ní mór deimhniú cleamhnachta polaitíochta a bheith ag gabháil le páipéar ainmniúcháin ó iarrthóir páirtí polaitíochta cláraithe agus caithfear é a thabhairt ar aird domsa lena fhoirm/lena foirm ainmniúcháin chomhlánaithe.

Mura mbeidh aon deimhniú tugtha ar aird ní mór don iarrthóir, roimh an am is déanaí chun ainmniúcháin a fháil, ceachtar den dá rud seo a dhéanamh –

• cúig aontú dhéag leis an ainmniúchán a fháil trí dhearbhuithe reachtúla ó thoghthóirí rialtais áitiúil a bheidh cláraithe sa toghlimistéar áitiúil ábhartha (tá na foirmeacha ar fáil uaimse nó ón údarás cláraithe), nó

• éarlais de €100 a íoc (is féidir éarlais a íoc thar ceann an iarrthóra freisin).

Is é 12 meánlae an 18ú lá de bealtaine, dhá mhíle, fiche a ceathair an t-am is déanaí le hainmniúcháin a ghlacadh.

Is féidir leis an iarrthóir nó lena mholtóir/a moltóir páipéir ainmniúcháin chomhlánaithe a sheachadadh chugam i bpearsa tráth ar bith a bhím i m’oifig, ó 10am an 11ú lá de Bealtaine, dhá mhíle, fiche a ceathair go 12 meánlae ar an lá is déanaí le hainmniúcháin a ghlacadh.

Tá ceangal orm faoin dlí a bheith i láthair le glacadh le hainmniúcháin idir 10am agus 12 meán lae agus idir 2pm agus 5pm an 17ú lá de Bealtaine, dhá mhíle, fiche a ceathair agus idir 10am agus 12 meán lae an 18ú lá de Bealtaine, dhá mhíle, fiche a ceathair.

Má bhíonn toghachán comhraic ann, reáchtálfar vótaíocht an 7ú lá de Mheitheamh, idir 7am agus 10pm.

Micheál O’Draoi

An Ceann Comhairimh

Seoladh:

Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, An Charrig Leathan, Loch Garman Y35 WY93

Dáta:

1ú Bealtaine, dhá mhíle, fiche a ceathair.

Local Improvement Scheme 2024

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has recently announced a record funding allocation of €40 million for repairs and improvement works on non-public rural roads and laneways under the Local Improvement Scheme (LIS).

This announcement brings to a total of almost €170 million that has been allocated to local authorities under the Scheme since it was re-introduced in 2017. The allocation of funds is for works to be carried out across 2024 and 2025 on roads not normally maintained by the local authority.

Changes to the Scheme eligibility from previous years include –

• Only one herd number now required for a valid application.

• The road/lane must provide access to parcels of land, of which two or more are owned/occupied by different persons, one of which must be engaged in separate agricultural activities.

Wexford County Council are now inviting applications for the Local Improvement Scheme. The full Terms and Conditions and Scheme application forms can be accessed via our website https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/roads-travel-and-parking/road-grants/local-improvement-scheme-lis-private-roads

Toghcháin Áitiúla & Pharlaiminte na hEorpa 2024

Beidh Toghcháin Áitiúla & Pharlaiminte na hEorpa ar siúl an 7 Meitheamh 2024.

Tabhair ar aird gurb ionann an dáta deireanach a ghlacfar le hiarratais ar Chlár na dToghthóirí agus Dé Luain, an 20 Bealtaine 2024, agus, i gcás socruithe vótála Speisialta agus socruithe vótala Poist, an dáta deireanach a ghlacfar le hiarratais ná Dé Sathairn, an 11 Bealtaine 2024.

Is féidir leat a sheiceáil an bhfuil tú cláraithe chun vóta a chaitheamh ar www.checktheregister.ie

Mura bhfuil tú cláraithe agus más mian leat vóta a chaitheamh, is féidir leat clárú ar líne ar www.checktheregister.ie nó is féidir leat foirm iarratais a íoslódáil ar féidir leat a chomhlánú agus a chur ar ais chuig Rannóg an Chirt Vótála, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, Halla an Chontae, An Charraig Leathan, Loch Garman Y35 WY35.

Ní ghlacfar le hiarratais a bhfaighfear tar éis an Luain, an 20 Bealtaine 2024.

Notice of Intention to Acquire Derelict Site Compulsorily under Derelict Sites Act, 1990

(As amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000)

Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council (hereinafter referred to as the “local authority”) in exercise of the powers conferred on them by Section 14 of the Derelict Sites Act, 1990 intend to acquire compulsorily under the said Act the derelict site described hereunder. Property at 16 Chapel Lane, New Ross, Co Wexford.

A map of the said derelict site has been deposited at the Property Management Unit, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. The map may be viewed at all reasonable hours at the offices of Wexford County Council, Property Management Unit, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.

Any owner, lessee or occupier (except a tenant for a month or a period less than a month) may, on or before Friday, 7th of June 2024 submit to the local authority an objection to the proposed compulsory acquisition of the derelict site. Any such objection must be in writing stating the grounds of the objection and addressed to the local authority at the Property Management Unit, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford.

The Derelict Sites Act, 1990 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act, 2000) provides that if an objection is made to the proposed compulsory acquisition of a derelict site and the objection is not withdrawn, the derelict site shall not be acquired compulsorily by the local authority without the consent of An Bord Pleanála.

Description of Derelict Site Proposed to be Acquired Property at 16 Chapel Lane, New Ross, Co. Wexford Dated this 10th day of April 2024.

Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive Wexford County Council

European Parliament & Local Elections 2024

European Parliament & Local Elections will take place on 7th June 2024.

Please note that, the last date for the receipt of applications to the Register of Electors is Monday 20th May 2024, and for Special and Postal voting arrangements, the last date for receipt of applications is Saturday 11th May 2024.

You can check if you are registered to vote on www.checktheregister.ie If you are not registered and wish to vote you can register online at www.checktheregister.ie or you can download an application form which you can complete and return to the Franchise Department, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY35.

Applications received after Monday 20th May 2024 will not be accepted.

Tenders

The following tender competitions are currently active. If you wish to obtain further information, and make a submission for any of the tenders, please visit www.etenders.gov.ie

Please note that persons applying for these positions must satisfy the Department of Social Protection criteria to participate in the Community Employment Scheme.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities employer.

Tá folúntais ag Comhairle Contae Loch Garman

sna réimsí seo a leanas den Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail atá againn

Oibrí Comhshaoil – post amháin Baile na Cúirte

Oibrí Comhshaoil – post amháin Guaire

Áireofar ar na dualgais a bheidh le déanamh:

• Oibrí Comhshaoil – Cothabháil ghinearálta, glantachán, plandú agus gortghlanadh etc. Teastaíonn láncheadúnas glan tiomána.

Chun iarratas a dhéanamh ar aon cheann de na poist seo agus chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil, déan teagmháil le Bernie Lennon, Maoirseoir na Scéime Fostaíochta Pobail, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, ar 087 6575743 le linn uaireanta oifige ón 9am – 5pm nó seol ríomhphost chuig: bernie.lennon@wexfordcoco.ie

An dáta deiridh a ghlacfar le hiarratais ná Dé hAoine, an 3 Bealtaine ag 4pm.

Tabhair ar aird nach mór don té a dhéanann iarratas ar na poist seo critéir na Roinne Coimirce Sóisialaí a chomhlíonadh d’fhonn páirt a ghlacadh sa Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail.

Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna é Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.

Wexford County Council has vacancies in the following areas of our Community Employment Scheme

Wexford County Council has vacancies in the following areas of our Community Employment Scheme

Duties to include:

 Environmental Worker – General maintenance, cleaning, planting, and weeding etc. Full clean driving licence required.

To apply for any of these positions and for further information please contact – Bernie Lennon, CE Scheme Supervisor, Wexford County Council on 087 6575743 during office hours 9am – 5pm or email: bernie.lennon@wexfordcoco.ie

The closing date for applications is Friday May 3rd at 4pm.

Duties to include:

 Environmental Worker – General maintenance, cleaning, planting and weeding etc.

To apply for any of the above positions and for further information please contact – Sean O’Neill, CE Supervisor, Wexford County Council on 0869478001 / 051426698 during office hours 9 am – 5pm or email sean.oneill@wexfordcoco.ie – newrosscepsouth@wexfordcoco.ie

The closing date for All Applications is 4.00pm Friday 24th May 2024.

Please note that persons applying for these positions must satisfy the Department of Social Protection criteria to participate in the Community Employment Scheme.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities employer.

Equinox DebutHeavy Headbanging Hit

By Dorn Simon. Pics by Wexford Media / Damien Smullen.

New Enniscorthy metal outfit Equinox took to the stage for their debut gig in The Presentation Arts Centre, on Saturday 27th April.

It was a debut that had an energetic and eager audience, as the band delivered a heavy, headbanging hit, with the giggoers delivering stomps, slams and circle pit with the familiar stage dive!

When asked to describe their genre, bassist Archie said, “Equinox doesn’t have a genre, they go by name and that only, it’s a mindset.”

Equinox comprises of:

Jack Sabbath - Vox

Kyle O’Leary - Vox

Archie Laws - Bass

Adrian Bialkowski - Guitar

Tadhg Murphy - Guitar

Matt Pentony - Drums

The strength of the death growls from the vocalists was impressive given their tender age and how short a duration the band has been together, the outfit worked in unison and like clockwork, the undercurrent was rage by default.

The biggest surprise was the sheer heavy sound they incorporated into their own. For a debut, the band brought their own flavour to an otherwise familiar noise, in a good way!

The tracks written by the band were as well developed as the two covers they added to the setlist, which consisted of:

This Fire (Killswitch Engage Cover)

Children of the Sacrifice (Equinox)

The Butcher (Equinox)

Roots Bloody Roots (Sepultura Cover)

All of which didn’t miss a beat, riff or growl, and took us on a 25-minute journey into the blood-drenching depths.

The headbanging was as much on stage as was on the venue floor, the ever-increasing circling of the moshpit, as the

band got louder and heavier throughout the set.

Overall, it was an impressive entry to the Enniscorthy metal scene, I was not expecting Equinox to be so loud, so proud and so heavy.

Looking forward to their promised return.

Thanks to Outrage Entertainment for booking Equinox and for the time and support they have given the band.

Check out the performance on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Hlj m2LdIPk n

Crimson return to The Presentation Centre stage

Crimson make their return to The Presentation Arts Centre's stage on May 4th with support from Wizard Fruit, The Donnys, Martina and the Moons, and Fia.

Doors 7pm (showtime 7:15pm).

Tickets €10 (+ €1.50 Booking Fee).

https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/sho ws/873644980 n

Enniscorthy pub to reopen under new management

In a welcome development, TJ Murphy’s pub in Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, which has been closed for many months, will be reopening soon under the Brennan’s brewing & distilling banner.

Notices on the pub front show that the pub is seeking full and part-time bar staff as well as a cleaner. Email: brennansenniscorthy@gmail.com

Check out:

https://www.facebook.com/brennans ofenniscorthy and https://www.facebook.com/thebrennansbrewery n

Pic: Damien SmullenWexford Media.

1st and 2nd June 2024

Festival season continues in Enniscorthy over the June bank holiday weekend which sees the return of the Enniscorthy Street Rhythms Festival with its new element of Regenerative Farming and Sustainability. The Street Rhythms will bring its usual fun, colourful and funky vibe to the streets, while the Athenaeum and possibly the Church Institute will host talks and demonstrations on regenerative farming and sustainability.

The Street Rhythms will showcase local groups from ballet, ballroom and line dancing to gymnastics, marching bands and ceoltas. The fantastic Jack Wise magician will be back with loads of laughs and there will be some super acrobatic displays. While the wonderful Rathnure Panto team will be bringing their 'WORLD OF IMAGINATION'... expect to see a range of characters in the town including Willy Wonka, characters from Frozen, The Lion King and so many more. This year the organisers are highlighting fancy dress.... best costume wins a prize... and there will be a treasure hunt with great prizes also... and so much more... keep an eye on Facebook.... The Enniscorthy Street Rhythms Festival can’t wait to see you on 1st and 2nd June.

On the regenerative side, things kick off on Friday 31st of May with a regenerative farming day at the Riverside Park Hotel from 9.30am till 5pm with various speakers ranging from soil experts to farmers who have converted already to this way of farming, showing the merits and pitfalls of this ecological way of farming. Tickets available on Eventbrite. On Saturday it is planned to continue this theme with smaller seminars in the town in the Athenaeum and possibly the Church Institute building (opposite the Castle) with local farmers, herbalists and RTE’s Kitty Scully on organic gardening along with local experts too. The Sunday line-up has more of an animal theme with an alternative approach such as animal communicator Lisa Tully, vets on alternative feeding techniques and complementary medicine for our four-legged friends. For all this and much more, see posters around town closer to the time, as well as the festival’s social media and the Slaney News Facebook page. n

Keep up to date on the festival facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthy.streetrhythms

Check out the video from last year: https://www.facebook.com/enjoyenniscorthy/videos/794622005438367

Rock ‘n’ Roll Town Weekender

The Enniscorthy Rock ‘n’ Roll Town Weekender is taking place 3-6th May running alongside the Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival.

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Town Weekender will be based in the pubs of Enniscorthy and also at the new Marquee at the Waterfront Swimming Pool in Templeshannon which has capacity for over 500 people.

More details on pages 12-15.

Keep up to date on: https://www.facebook.com/RocknRollTownEnniscorthy n

Dead Memories interview

Interview by Dorn Simon

DEAD MEMORIES are:

KRIS (KRISTOF) BUTCHER - VOCALS

JACK CLOKE - DRUMS

TIM BROWNER - GUITAR

SCOTT WALDOCK - BASS

1. Why Dead Memories?

Kris: So it wasn’t all just me at the start, to be honest, it was our first guitarist (Tomás Hynes) at the very start, it was just me and him, and umm the way it all started basically is he had this oneman black metal project and we got to talking online, I was a vocalist and he was doing everything else so we figured we’d collab, so we made a song ‘Memories Fade & So Do Scars’ and umm it didn’t quite fit into his one-man band, so we were like “Ahh (beep) it, let’s do a different band then!” and we created Dead Memories at that point and umm we were like the two frontmen I suppose but then he was after leaving, so it was all up to me then after that.

2. When did you first form?

Kris: Umm the live stuff, like what we really had to do is, we had the project up, we had the song up, we had two songs out at this point and we finally just decided alright let’s just put a band together to see what we can do with that then, after that was pretty much it.

It was 2021 October, October 2021 yeah (agreeing with his memory as he speaks) and umm we got the full band together sometime early 2022 I think it was, and then we played our first gig, what was supposed to be May 19th of last year (2023) but we ended up playing (Debut gig) July 7th 2023.

3. What is your writing process? Riff or lyrics first?

Kris: That’s a tough one as umm it can be either or …[Dorn interrupts with “Hi Jack” as Jack Cloke (Drums) enters the zoom]...

Jack: Hello.

Kris: Ahh Jacky Boy! (enthusiastically buddy-like).

Jack: Can yis hear me?

Dorn: Yes.

Kris: Yeah, Yeah.

Jack: Yeah, I think with the writing process umm like Tim would maybe come up with the riff and Kris would just have like the lyrics already there and I would just write a drum riff for it or we do program drums for it and then we just learn it and write it.

Tim & Scott: Hello, Hi guys!

4. When did you aspire to death growl Kris?

Kris: Aw that is a good question like I’ve been doing vocals for the past six, six and a half years or so, so umm yeah, eh I actually don’t even know to be honest, I’m pretty sure I, straight away as soon as I got into music, it was always the heavy stuff, so, I think what really gave in for me was this band I think, that’s a guess ‘cause I actually haven’t a clue (laughs).

Dorn: But it seems to have mixed in together like it organically formed and it progressed organically, and you all seem to fit together well, I mean I’ve seen you probably three times live now and each time there’s been a progression, like uhh

Kris: Yeah

Dorn: Would it have been the first time that Jack did that epic (beep) Solo on drums?

Jack: Oh…you remember that?

Dorn: Yeah.

Kris: Ahh brilliant, brilliant.

Dorn: How I remember it, not only because it was great is why I remember it, but because I recorded it and the (beep) thing came out on Slo-Mo (Laughs) [Impromtu rec not filming the event].

Tim & Scott: Oh no! (Laughs).

Jack: Oh I’d still watch it in Slo-Mo though.

Dorn: No, no, it didn’t give the same feeling…I ruined it!

Jack: So like if you just put it out there and say “I just don’t remember doing that”, for no particular reason…

Dorn: The last time I would have seen you would have been the line-up that I have here today, you would have been the ones on stage and it was when War of Attrition and Death Can Wait were playing, eh epic gig again, and again like I said, it gets to the point where you actually recognise some of your songs now, as I will always think of ‘Break’ when I think of you

Dead Memories. Pic: Damien Smullen / Wexford Media.

Jack: That’s the goal, that’s the goal.

Dorn: Ahh it’s brilliant, I mean go for it, again the progression yada yada anyway I’m talking too much, let’s get you lot talking…

5. Musical Influences?

Kris: I’ll let Tim & Scott go first.

Tim: Okay, my main musical influences would probably be Thy Art Is Murder, and ERRA an incredible progressive metalcore band from the States and Ooo (thinking) I dunno maybe August Burns Red.

Scott/Background: Mmm of agreement/interest.

Scott: Okay, Pantera! Pantera, they’re just the best… Kris: Classic.

Scott: World’s best band it's official, and Type O-Negative, I love Type O-Negative but that’s not that style, what? am I going to get beat up if I say Type O-Negative…Just Pantera, old school stuff though, I like their older stuff, I think they’re sick but, obviously all the bands that Tim listens to (sarcastic tone and facial expressions) they have effect, ya know, they’re great. (LAUGHS)

Dorn: (LAUGHING) I can see there’s some compromising going on there.

Scott: Hmmm.

Tim: Yeah, well a band is a compromise, so you have to compromise with everyone.

Dorn: Oh no ya do (agreeing).

Scott: Yeah, ‘cause we all fight, and we all hate each other (SMIRKS)

Kris: Absolutely…All these guys are P***** I don’t really like them (SMILES.)

Scott: That’s fair, I couldn’t agree more.

Jack: Ah yeah, I agree there yeah…

Dorn: Right, Influences Jack?

Jack: My turn? I’m more of a Doors, Led Zeppelin type stuff ehh but metal wise I used to listen to Cannibal Corpse…(audio cuts out) a while back, Obituary (audio distortion)

Kris: A bit of old-school death metal there, hell yeah, it is a mix,

Pic:

Damien Smullen / Wexford Media

it literally just like the brutal stuff, everything that’s just all up in your face, They’re playing Download (formerly known as Monsters of Rock Festival in Donington Park, UK) this year (referencing Pantera on this year's line-up).

Tim: Well, I have my Leaving Cert this year so… ah well.

6. Best gig you ever played?

Kris: The last one.

Scott: Aww thank you, stop (Hand gestures).

Tim: I’m gonna ruin it completely by saying the best gig I ever played was with my other band Bleak Truth in the Grand Social (Dublin).

Scott: What’s wrong with you?! That’s rude. (Jesting).

Tim: That was, it was the festival of like 8 or 9 bands for umm and all the proceeds went to a charity for Palestine, so yeah that was probably the best show I ever done, no offence Kristof, I’m sure we’ll beat it.

Kris: The next one is going to be the best.

Tim: It is, oh we’re actually playing on uh the 13th April in Mono’s Bar in Dublin with a lot of the hardcore bands from Dublin so.

Scott: It's gonna be sick.

7. Best gig attended for pleasure?

All: mmm.

Jack: Can I answer this one?

Kris/Dorn: Yes, go on.

Jack: Definitely, I went to go see Tenacious D (Comedian/Musician Jack Black) in 2020, and oh my god they were sick, but no if you’re under 12, definitely don’t go or bring your kids there…

All: LAUGHING over Jack.

Jack: Nah, it was a great gig, I was just in the room with Jack Black and man it was great.

Kris: Em I went to see Cannibal Corpse, Ingested, Dark Funeral and eh who else was there, eh Storm Ruler in Manchester, was it this year, I think it was this year, no, last year sorry it was late last year, that was absolutely brilliant.

Scott: Emm I haven’t been to many gigs except the DHC shows and they’re so fun and I love them so much, I love getting punched in the face, best part, yeah, so I mean we’re going to be up in Dublin soon so people can get punched in the face to our music, isn’t that just amazing…(SMIRKS ALL ROUND).

Kris: Ah yeah (SMILING).

Tim: Emm probably seeing Chelsea Grin and Kublai Khan in The Grand Social in town, incredible, and they all signed my guitar as well it was class.

8. Which of your tracks is your favourite? Each answer.

Scott: Hmmm.

Tim: Does it have to be currently released?

Scott: I was about to say that.

Kris: I am going to say that the best one that we have recorded so far and is not released is definitely ‘Slam Scorthy’.

Jack: Yeah, yeah, that’s sick.

Scott: Slam Scorthy, hardest thing so cool.

Tim: Yeah it was our first song that we wrote together as, with the new line-up.

Dead Memories

Jack: I do kinda like ‘Mainstream Pussies’ though.

All: Yeah.

Kris: Yeah Mainstream Pussies is also pretty good I can’t lie, basically I’m just gonna give a brief detail version about it, I hated that song at the start as it was way too (beep) mainstream, for me… (LAUGHTER) .… so I had writ lyrics for it and had it ready, did it, grand and basically just given in to the mainstream, if I can’t bring you down I’ll bring you down with me (SHRUGS SHOULDERS) be mainstream.

Scott: We’re mainstream pussies! (GRINNING).

Tim: I don’t think we’re actually going to call it that…

Scott: No, we have to now.

Kris: Yeah we are, yeah we are.

Tim: No, we’re not, we don’t have to.

Tim: Okay whatever, but that was a really good riff though that I wrote.

Scott: Yeah and

Kris: Yeah it was a brilliant riff, brilliant riff

Scott: Great riff, you’re just being way too fussy.

9. Break has become an anthem for Dead Memories giggoers, how does that make you feel?

Tim: Make’s me feel really bad as I didn’t write it!

Scott: Yeah, it makes me feel terrible, but whatever.

Jack: Makes me feel great because I was there when it was written.

Tim: Ehhh you’re a drummer!

Scott: Yeah drummers don’t do anything!

Jack: I am a drummer yes.

Kris: (LAUGHS) Whoa…okay.

10. Studio work – are you recording?

All: Yes [in unison].

Kris: Yes, we are.

Tim: In my little shed.

Scott: The shred shed.

Tim: I’ve spent a lot of time, the majority of the time I’ve been playing guitar, I’ve also been learning production, so that’s…

Kris: It’s the slam shed.

Tim: It’s the slam shed yeah.

Scott: Cheapest studio in Dublin [Kris & Jack are in Enniscorthy, Tim & Scott reside in Dublin].

Tim: It’s the slam shed for many different reasons…(LAUGHING). (LAUGHTER).

Scott: Great cute little place though.

Tim: We’re actually sleeping in it tonight.

Scott: Yeah we’re sleeping in it tonight, not just us two, that would be weird, there’s more.

Jack: I’m sleeping in a caravan for the last few days (spins the camera around to show the caravan in Courtown).

Scott: What!?

Tim: I can tell (GRINNING). (LAUGHS).

Scott: You like our little spot? (showing the space they are in).

Tim: Yeah, you like our little spot?

Dorn: Is that the shed?

Tim: No, we’re at our friend's girlfriend's house and this is her garage (GRINS).

11. Memories Fade (Song)

Kris: That was the first song that was written for Dead Memories with the previous guitarist ahh but the way Tim played it, it was beautiful, it was just out there, Tim’s the man.

Tim: Thank you, Thank you.

Scott: Thank you.

12. Does it give you more of a hit when you are doing your favourite covers, or do you prefer doing your original works?

Kris: Prefer the originals completely, definitely.

Scott: I think yeah the best part of that gig was Slam Scorthy, that was just so cool, so fun to do [January 2024 playing Enniscorthy].

Dorn: On a couple of occasions you often play the same songs twice as well because you get such a rise out of the audience.

Kris: We played Counting Worms twice at the August gig last year [2023] with Peer Pleasure.

13. Because you all have other bands, do you find that there’s any conflict in time scheduling, or ya know do you sometimes be in the zone for the band and then have to pull yourself back and put yourself into a different zone, or is it that you just play, and that's that, it’s just like one day your playing with them, and the next day playing with the other and so forth?

Tim: My mind kind of runs with both at the same time, I kinda think about them both independently, like I’ll be at home and I’ll be just jamming and I’ll come up with something and it’s immediately like, ahh that’s for this band, or that’s for that band and it’s just yeah, kinda just run at the same time.

Dorn: Jack?

Scott: Yeah Jack’s in like ten bands!

All: (Agreeing).

Jack: Yeah, I’m in 5 or 6 bands, I’m a drummer in 5 of them and a singer in Recoil, sometimes it's hard to learn like all of the sets all at the same time, like that gig you seen with the drum solo, I was having to learn two sets in one week, and I had to manage to get band practise one with Dead Memories and then another one and it was just a hassle ya know, but now that I don’t have two bands playing at the same time, it’s a lot more easier ya know, if I had two going on at the exact same time, it would just mess you up ya know.

Dorn: Kristof, yourself, is it just Dead Memories you’re working with now, or?

Kris: I’m loyal to a relationship, Dead Memories is my only one (LAUGHS).

Finishing up.

Kris: I’d like to add one thing that is I think we’re at our very best at the moment with this line-up.

All Members: Thank you, Kristof! n

Some editing for flow has occurred to make the above interview easier to read.

Musical drama smashes it!

By Maria Nolan

If music be the fruits of love then drama must surely be the nectar and the combination of the two is simply sublime.

The Gorey Musical Society has just blown both drama and musicals out of the park with their amazing production of Michael Collins – A Musical Drama at the Gorey Little Theatre.

The extremely emotive story of our War of Independence and Civil War is still very personal to a great many of us and even though we all know the story and know how it ends – it still gets us every time.

When Harry Boland (Chris Currid) is shot by a Free State soldier and Michael Collins (Jordan Bass) falls dead from an Anti-Treaty bullet at Béal na mBláth, there was an audible gasp from the packed Gorey auditorium as a great many wiped tears from their eyes, me included. I have to say both actors died extremely well!

It surprised me greatly to see so many young people in particular being so moved by the superb production brilliantly directed by the acclaimed Stephen Acton, fabulously scored by Musical Director Conor McCarthy and artistically choreographed by Megan

Lopez. The show was spellbinding and poignant from beginning to end, with the casting of the leads, especially the Big Fella and the Long Fella, inspirational.

Jordan Bass as Collins, Ronan P Byrne as de Valera, Chris Currid as Harry Boland, April Kelly as Kitty Kiernan and Michael O’Gorman as Joe Emmet were masterful, skilful and magnificently cast – at times closing your eyes you could hear de Valera so good was Ronan P Byrne’s portrayal of the character, similarly Jordan Bass’ Collins fluctuated between the real and Liam Neeson, both equally fas-

cinating, Chris Currid’s Harry Boland torn apart by the loss of love and friendship was nothing short of exquisitely torturing and Kitty Kiernan’s love and Joe Emmet’s adoration were all consuming.

Every actor on stage gave 110%, each performing to the very best of their ability to do justice to our history and bring the true tragedy of Ireland’s Civil War to life.

The tragedy of two of Ireland’s most patriotic, influential, clever, and respected men not being able to find common ground, each with their own view of what was right for the country and its people, both right and both wrong.

The tragedy of a country divided, a people divided, friendships divided, love divided. A nation on the brink, falling into the abyss.

Can anything be more soul destroying than Civil War.

Michael Collins – A Musical Drama leaves one reeling with pride, emotion, and a multitude of what ifs, a testament to the magnificence of its direction, execution, and delivery, not to mention its imaginative set from the talented Paul Doran.

This was a must-see of theatre excellence and very well done to all involved in any way with this stunning production. n

Ronan P Byrne as de Valera.

Oulart-The Ballagh’s

A massive crowd of 800 people filled Whites Hotel in Wexford town on Saturday 30th March 2024 for the final of the Oulart-The Ballagh GAA Strictly Club Dancing competition.

If you missed out on attending the night itself you can catch up on all the action on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyHzrWMm8eI

Right: Oulart-The Ballagh GAA Strictly Club Dancing winners Niall Nimmo and Eleanor Hammell. n

Above left: The judges at the Oulart The Ballagh Strictly Club Dancing Final. Above: The crowd enjoying themselves. Left: The finalists get warmed up. Below left: The finalists with the two comperes. Below: Tommy Sinnott and Sophie Codd.

Strictly Club Dancing

Above left: Some of the stewards and comperes for the final in Whites Hotel. Above right: Eveleen and Johnny O’Sullivan.

Above left: Pat and Jackie Fortune. Above right: The crowd getting involved. Below left: Sophie Codd and Tommy Sinnott. Below centre: Martin Dempsey welcomes everybody to the final. Below right: Seanon Crean and Peter Sutton.

Oulart The Ballagh Strictly Club Dancing Final in Whites Hotel, Wexford, 30th March 2024. Above left: Claire O’Sullivan, Sophie Murphy and Eva Gibbons. Above centre: Jamie and Allie Prendergast. Above right: Laura Pettitt, Katie McGinley and Katie Walsh.

Oulart The Ballagh Strictly Club Dancing Final in Whites Hotel, Wexford, 30th March 2024. Above left: Amy and Claire Butler. Above centre: Irene Hayden, Breda Flood and Breda Jacob. Above right: Courtney Browne and Conor Lawless.

Above left: Theresa Hore and Anne Davis. Above centre: Lizzie and Martina Dempsey. Above right: Dance teachers Noel Price and Nadine Byrne.

PHOTOGRAPHER

Enniscorthy choirs open to new members

In Enniscorthy, there are at least three choirs open for new members: Enniscorthy Gospel Choir, the Silvertones and the new singing group called The Templars based at Templeshannon Community Centre.

CONTACT DETAILS:

Enniscorthy Gospel Choir: Tel: 087 652 2198. Facebook: ‘Enniscorthy Gospel Choir’. Silvertones: Danny 087 2465250 or Mary: 089 414 2626.

The Templars: Tel: 053 9237511. Meet every Thursday morning at 11am in Templeshannon Community Centre. n

ENNISCORTHY LIBRARY

Email: enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie Phone: 053 9236055

OPENING HOURS:

Monday 10.30am - 5.30pm (closed 1pm to 2pm). Tuesday 10.30am - 5.30pm. Wednesday 10.30am - 5.30pm. Thursday 10.30am - 8.30pm. Friday 10.30am - 5.30pm. Saturday 10.30am - 5.30pm (closed 1pm to 2pm).

Closed Saturday & Mondays of bank holiday weekends. n

Ballindaggin Development Group and Tidy Towns Committee

Like the ‘Ballindaggin Development Group and Tidy Towns Committee’ Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077455592773 to keep up to date with what is going on in the village. n

Page to Stage Words & pics by

Amigo Productions – the brainchild of Paul Hughes, Jamie T Murphy, Joan O`Ruairc and ably abetted by Wally O`Neill of Red Books, thank you for bestowing a wonderful new drama festival weekend on Wexford.

Page to Stage One Act Drama launched its inaugural weekend at the Wexford Arts Centre on 13th/14th April to major acclaim.

Two packed houses enjoyed five plays chosen from forty submissions received from all over the country and beyond and the popular winner was Went a Furze Smashing by Diarmuid McGuinness from County Longford, tastefully directed by Julie Fox and Pat Murphy and performed by Mary O`Connor, Brendan Carthy, and Peter O`Connor.

A difficult task for adjudicators, acclaimed Scalders Fintan Kelly and Andy Doyle who were elaborate in their praise for all five finalists whilst confident in their choice of winning entry.

Went A Furze Smashing is a poignant piece of family drama, sensitively written and directed and delicately handled by the cast, delivering a moving tale of awkwardness between father and son, as the son struggles to tell his dad, who is almost refusing to listen, that he is gay.

A deserving winner, but in truth, cliché or not, everyone was a winner, all forty entries, the five world premieres, the seven directors, sixteen cast members, and ten backstage and front of house crew, but the real winner was this innovative new drama festival for Wexford, what a vehicle for new and aspiring playwrights to get their work to stage.

I can’t speak highly enough of the vision of the organisers taking the concept from a

throwaway conversation in Red Books to the Wexford Arts Centre stage. While the judges were making their deliberations, we were entertained by singer/songwriter Rachel Grace – a very talented lady who is definitely going places, shades of Nancy Griffith about her.

Delighted to see so much Enniscorthy and EDG talent on view over all productions – so go Scorthy – Jamie Murphy,

Joan O’Ruairc, Julie Fox, Paul O’Reilly, Kate Breen, Brendan Carthy, Pat Murphy, Jer Ennis, Billy Stafford, Murt Murphy, and of course esteemed judges Andy Doyle and Fintan Kelly.

Well done everyone and according to MC Paul Hughes the plan is to bring these five plays on a tour of the county over the coming months so do take the opportunity to see them. n

Page to Stage One Act Drama –a huge success

The winn Pat Murph Billy Stafford, Jamie T Murphy and James Sweetman.

Winning playwright Diarmuid McGuinness (second from right) with Jamie T Murphy, Joan O’Ruairc, Verona Murphy, Paul Hughes.

Th

y Maria Nolan

ning actors and directors: Brendan Carthy, hy Director, Peter O’Connor, Mary O’Connor, and Julie Fox Director.

The judges Andy Doyle and Fintan Kelly.

Left and above: Jer Ennis and Billy Stafford.

he team behind the successful weekend of drama: Joan O'Ruairc, Paul Hughes, Jamie T Murphy.

https://www.instagram.com/castleboro_run?utm_source=qr &igsh=OWNqd2NtbW1ycmg3 n

Soloists for the upcoming Silvertones concert in Enniscorthy (see opposite page) are Clodagh Kinsella (above) and her sister Stephanie Kinsella (below).

Dollies celebrations for

Above: Some of the members of Enniscorthy’s Delightful Dollies women Below L-R: 1. Winnie O’Connor, Theresa O’Connor, Winnie Connolly a 3. Liz O’Brien, Anne Collins, Pat O’Brien

Far left: Anne Ma Left: Ita Kinna Right: Jackie Far right: Monica

’s group at their 12th anniversary celebrations held in Bellefield GAA Complex on 17th April 2024. and Edel Kenny with the celebration cake. 2. Stephanie Murphy, Teresa Reck and Jackie Larkin. and Mary Kells. 4. Geraldine Bolger, Kit Kenny and Eileen Coady.

Above: Mary Joel addresses the group. Below: Committee member Edel Kenny.

Dunne, Mary Kelly and aeve Whelan.

ard and Tracey Cowman. Larkin and Mary Vardy. Delahunty and Briget Major.

Laughing at the Crossroads

Words & Pics by Maria Nolan

What a great name for a great new Comedy Festival for Enniscorthy launched at The Presentation Arts Centre recently by comedian Pat McDonnell of Father Ted fame and organisers Blayne Hosey, Brendan Robinson, Leona Breen, Natasha Brooks, and Galina Orlova.

The brainchild of Blayne and Brendan, the new festival aims to make Wexford Ireland’s No.1 comedy destination.

A tall order considering the many excellent comedy festivals already in existence like the Cat Laughs in Kilkenny, Paddy Power Comedy Festival, Dublin, the Galway Comedy Festival, and others but if the enthusiasm, energy and passion on display at The Presentation Centre is anything to go by then hold on to yer hats – this comedy lark is going places.

Scorthy Smiles Comedy Club is already up and running in Enniscorthy and playing regularly in venues around the town – the Bailey, Creative Grounds, and Bellefield GAA Complex.

A very brave decision by all those involved to add a festival to the mix, and they are to be commended for it.

Laughter is the best medicine and the objectives of the group include mental health, inclusion, social interaction and a community outlet, and comedian and fundraising guru Brendan Robinson told the large Presentation audience that in these times of mental health focus they were happy to be associated with Brent Pope’s The Elephant in the Room.

A wonderful initiative and one that deserves the support of the town, there is little use complaining that there is never anything going on in Enniscorthy if we are not prepared to support new and diverse innovations like this one bringing some of Ireland’s top comedians to our doorstep.

The launch evening, very kindly sponsored by Liam Doyle, was a flavour of things to come as Pat McDonnell entertained the large gathering of friends and well wishers with his own very special brand of comedy to whet the appetite for Laughing at the Crossroads.

Watch this space for further details of festival.

– Maria Nolan

Top: Brendan Robinson, Cllr Jackser Owens, Cllr John O’Rourke.

Above: Julie Fox, Pat Murphy, Brendan Carthy.

Below: David and Liam Doyle.

Pat McDonnell and Brendan Robinson.

L-R: Fintan Kelly, Cllr Aidan Browne, Lorraine Kelly.

Above: Brendan Robinson, guest comedian Pat McDonnell, Liam Doyle, Blayne Hosey.

Above right: Paul O’Reilly and Richard King.

Above left: Niall Wall, Fintan Kelly, Lorraine Kelly, Majella Wall, Cllr Jackser Owens.

Above: Local comedian Brendan Robinson with guest comedians Graham Morrissey and Pat McDonnell. Below left: Maria Nolan with some of the organisers and performers.

Below right: Alfie O’Sullivan, Graham Morrissey, Brendan Robinson and Pat McDonnell.

L-R: Galina Orlova, Brendan Robinson, Majella Wall, Natasha Brooks and Leona Eustace Breen.

The Phantom is a triumph

As we go to press, The Phantom of the Opera musical is half way through its run at the National Opera House in Wexford with its concluding night being on 4th May.

With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber – the most commercially successful composer in history, The Phantom of the Opera is considered by many to be his finest work. It has become one of the most successful and longest running musicals ever on both Broadway and the West End.

The eagerly awaited Wexford Light Opera Society version of The Phantom, which sold out all its shows months in advance, certainly lived up to all the hype with a stunning cast led by Karla Tracey (Christine Daaé), Tony Carty (The Phantom) and Daniel Furlong (Raoul), very ably assisted by Tony Brennan, Pat Lawlor, Ami Stahlut, Nicola Roche, George Lawlor, Dylan Walsh, Niamh Cullen, Eric Hayes, Catherine Walsh, James McDermott, Stephen Byrne, and of course the multi-award-winning chorus of Wexford Light Opera Society. And a flawless production team consisting of Director - Christine Scarry, Musical DirectorDavid Hayes, Chorus Mistress - Eithne Corrigan and Choreographer - Thérése O’Sullivan.

The Slaney News was very fortunate to see the show twice and the long, standing ovation both nights was indicative of how much the audience loved the show.

It’s hard to argue with the words of one reviewer who described it as ‘impressive beyond superlatives’.

Congrats to all involved in this remarkable triumph. n

Chocolate indulgence at Monart

Brand new Chocolate Indulgence Treatment unveiled at Monart Destination Spa

Chocolate has long been revered as both a delicacy and a skin superfood with antioxidants as well as having moisturising and rejuvenating benefits and now you can enjoy all of the benefits for your skin with a choice of three brand new Chocolate Indulgence treatments by Pevonia at Monart Destination Spa in Enniscorthy.

The new Chocolate Indulgence range is created from cold-pressed raw CACAO extract, recognised for its medicinal properties since ancient Mayan and Aztec civilisations. Each skin treatment is filled with bioavailable enzymes, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals resulting in a myriad of super youth enhancers to revitalise and repair for radiant skin.

The Monart Chocolate Indulgence Full Body Saltmouse Scrub treatment offers a chance to escape to a sensorial oasis of lusciously foaming chocolate goodness. Your skin is gently yet deeply exfoliated as a sumptuous blend of nutrient-rich Cacao extract delivering highly anti-oxidant and repairing benefits. Your skin benefits from an increase in vital negative ions and resurfaces smoother, more refined, and glowing with the delicious scent of chocolate. The Cocao Scrub treatment is a thirtyminute treatment at €60.

The Monart Chocolate Indulgence Body Wrap treatment will elevate your senses with this sumptuous rejuvenating experience. Immerse yourself in a world of pure indulgence as you are warmly enveloped in a luscious chocolate-infused cocoon. This exquisite treatment pampers your skin and soothes the soul with the tantalising scent of Cacao. Reap the benefits of chocolate's natural antioxidants and moisturising action as your skin is enriched from head to toe leaving it enriched, more refined, and smoother. Surrender to the pleasure of sublime re-

laxation and let your entire being bask in the sweet embrace of this delectable escape. The Cocao Wrap treatment is a sixty-minute treatment at €110.

Guests also have the option of a headto-toe Monart Chocolate Indulgence

Glow treatment. This offers a sweet and sensorial treat for healthy, illuminated skin as you lavish your face and body in this luxurious chocolate in a head-to-toe treatment. Inhale the enticing aroma of sumptuous Cacao as your skin is infused with an abundance of reparative, moisturising nutrients, including Collagen Polypeptides, Shea Butter, and Hyaluronic Acid, helping to boost and preserve supple youthfulness. The treatment begins with a luscious full body exfoliation, the body is then enveloped and cocooned in a silky, creamy, chocolate wrap. Followed by a facial cleanse and exfoliation, where the face and scalp is then massaged using a de-ageing Cacao Oil. The treatment concludes with a full body moisturisation which instantly boosts the skin's ability to receive and

retain vital moisture while repairing and protecting the skin barrier. The head-totoe Chocolate Indulgence Glow treatment is €150.

The Pevonia Chocolate Indulgence ingredient list includes Cacao for its antioxidant, re-mineralising, protecting and rejuvenating benefits; beta-glucan to preserve moisture and support skin immunity; collagen polypeptides to smooth, plump and preserve moisture; sodium hyaluronate to deeply moisturise and plump to improve skin health; niacinamide to boost circulation, repair and smooth; shea butter for moisturising, expedite healing, protect and soothe; propanediol to deeply moisturise, protect the skin barrier health and vitamin E for its antioxidant, moisturising, revitalising and rejuvenating properties.

Monart Destination Spa is dedicated to ensuring you relax, rejuvenate and renew in a stunning and unique environment.

For further details see www.monart.ie n

At the Riverside Park Hotel Enniscorthy

Stay in touch

Wexford Public Libraries Social Media: Wexford Public Libraries on Facebook. Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries

Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries

YouTube: "Wexford Public Libraries" n

The Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, upcoming event: 11th May 2024 – Pat & Faye Shortt. Tickets from hotel reception or online at www.riversideparkhotel.com/in-house-events Overnight packages also available including tickets and accommodation. n

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES

Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.

The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000

The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: (0402) 38529

Enniscorthy Retirement Association

The Enniscorthy Retirement Association holds monthly meeting on the first Tuesday of every month at 2.30pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, The Promenade, Enniscorthy.

The April guest speaker was Minister James Browne TD who, following his talk, answered a variety of questions from members of the Association.

For further details about Enniscorthy Retirement Association go along to any monthly meeting or see ‘Enniscorthy Retirement Association’ on Facebook or email: enniscorthtyretirementassociation@outlook.com

Check out the new website which is now live at www.enniscorthyretirement.net n

Dancing with Declan

Keep up to date with the local dancing scene on: https://www.facebook.com/DancingwithDec https://www.facebook.com/socialdancingdateswexford n

What’s On Wexford

Check out

https://www.facebook.com/groups/WexfordEvents for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n

Valerie Morris of the Enniscorthy Retirement Association with Minister James Browne TD.

SPIN FOR GAVIN GLYNN

Shine a Light!

Shine A Light Festival Fun at Hook Lighthouse this May Bank Holiday Weekend 4th, 5th & 6th May 2024

Hook Lighthouse is set for major festival fun this May bank holiday weekend. The festival weekend places a large emphasis on sea safety at what is typically the beginning of the bathing and boating season and throughout the weekend an opportunity to learn first-hand about safety at sea with free demonstrations on offer from members of the Irish Coast Guard and voluntary rescue services.

On May 5th the Irish Coast Guard Services, including the local Fethard on Sea Coast Guard, will be at Hook to demonstrate and talk to visitors about the importance of safety at sea and walking coastal areas, the role they play in coastal safety and they will share details on opportunities to join the essential service teams.

On the 6th of May the Dunbrody Archers will be at Hook Lighthouse from 12.00 noon to 4.00pm showcasing their activities and talking about their up and coming competitions.

An action-packed weekend is on offer with fun and games for all the family and entertainment from the resident Pirate Pat and his crew. The very popular treasure quest with goodies for all those who complete their tasks will be on offer but should you not succeed a member of your crew walks the plank. Hook’s resident artist Rose will be there all weekend in her workshop and there will be a prize daily for the best art judged by Rose herself.

Throughout the weekend, the Hook Lighthouse team will also place a focus on the heritage and past of Hook Lighthouse, shining a light on life as it was at this, the world’s oldest operational lighthouse. The Shine A Light festival takes place in conjunction with the Great Lighthouses of Ireland ‘Shine a Light’ events over the May bank holiday weekend whereby lighthouses around Ireland, including Hook Lighthouse, will shine a light and celebrate and share their rich tradition.

For further details see www.hookheritage.ie n

The Gavin Glynn Foundation helps families

Sing along time!

Sing Along with Pete and Aileen! Free Music & Song Sessions for month of May 2024 - Bealtaine Festival 2024. Partnering this year with the National Opera House, Templeshannon Community Centre, Enniscorthy, and Southend Family Resource Centre, Maudlintown, Wexford County Council’s Arts Office is delighted to announce free Songs from the Past music and song sessions followed by tea, coffee and cake.

Bealtaine is a well-established festival organised by Age & Opportunity, the national development organisation that aims to provide the best possible quality of life for us all as we age.

Supported by the Arts Office at Wexford County Council, the events for Bealtaine 2024 are taking place across three venues and are facilitated by singer Aileen McCamley and actor Pete McCamley. These events only require interest and enthusiasm – no prior experience or expertise is necessary! So go along and and join in the fun! Enniscorthy date, time and how to book: Thursday 16th May, Templeshannon Community Centre, Enniscorthy, 10:30am - 12pm. To book, phone: 053 92 37 511 or email: tccctempleshannon@hotmail.com

For full Bealtaine National Programme for 2024 go to https://bealtaine.ie/events-2/ n

Community park news...

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy has welcomed the news that €249,999 has been allocated to Bunclody Community Park at Carrigduff, Bunclody, for the consolidation of an existing Outdoor Recreational Activity Hub through expansion and upgrade of existing activity play area with modern inclusive equipment and increased passive areas for social integration within the community under the Town and Village renewal scheme.

In other community park news, Caim Community Park will officially open on Sunday the 12th of May at 2pm. n

A SPECIAL NIGHT OF MUSIC, SONG AND DANCE IN BALLINDAGGIN

A quality programme is promised for this Saturday night's May Bush Concert in Ballindaggin Hall with a fantastic concert of traditional music, song and dance from Wexford, Wicklow and Carlow.

The performers include Deirdre Ní Shiúrdáin and James Jordan, Pádraig Mac Aodhgáin and Nicola Uí Aodhgáin, Leah Sweeney, Annette Roban, Aileen Lambert and young musicians and singers from Ballindaggin National School.

The organisers are also delighted to have Cllr BarbaraAnne Murphy attend and officially launch the new book by Michael Fortune and Aileen Lambert The May Bush in County Wexford

The event starts at 8pm sharp and runs until 10pm. It promises to be a special event stemming from the heart of a rural Wexford community. n

County Wexford May Bush Festival is in full swing

The County Wexford May Bush Festival is underway with its biggest programme to date. Events include free schools workshops, book launches, cookery demonstrations, walks and talks, May Bush decoration events and The May Bush Concert in Ballindaggin on Saturday May 4th.

This ground-up community festival is organised by artist/folklorist Michael Fortune and artist/traditional singer Aileen Lambert (from folklore.ie) and builds on decades of work documenting, sharing and promoting the May Bush Tradition in County Wexford.

There are events to suit all ages and the public are also invited to put up and decorate their own May Bush and share pics with the festival, and if you’re a school you can enter the Schools’ Competition. Events are across the county including Ballindaggin, Adamstown, Grantstown, Wexford Town, Gorey and New Ross and of course your own garden or school where you have your own May Bush!

Events:

Many events have already taken place having started on April 17th but several more are happening over the coming days:

Friday May 3rd – Hear the Cuckoo Sing. Walk and talk in Ballycrystal.

Friday May 3rd – Deadline for submissions for The Schools May Bush competition.

Saturday May 4th – Nettle Soup Workshop in Ballindaggin Hall.

Saturday May 4th – The May Bush Concert and Book Launch in Ballindaggin Hall.

Thursday May 9th – ‘The May Bush in County Wexford’ Book launch in Gorey Library.

The complete programme for The County Wexford May Bush Festival is available to view on www.folklore.ie along with educational links and interviews that Michael and Aileen have

undertaken for RTÉ, local radio and newspapers over the past decade on the May Bush tradition.

https://folklore.ie/#about-the-maybush-festival

https://folklore.ie/#may-bush-festivalprogramme-2024

Background:

The tradition around the May Bush went into a steep decline around the county in the 1960s/1970s and in 2017 Aileen Lambert and Michael Fortune started a

ground-up festival called ‘The Wexford May Bush Festival’. Using social media, local papers, radio and word of mouth have successfully re-established the tradition back into the fabric of County Wexford and now have hundreds of homes, schools, groups and organisations putting up a May Bush in every corner of Wexford from Gorey to Campile and Rosslare to Kiltealy.

This year's festival is supported by a ‘Small Festival Grant’ from the Arts Department of Wexford County Council. n

Top actress moves to Enniscorthy

Anita Petry is a Brazilian actress who has recently moved to Enniscorthy after over a decade in New York and six years in Dublin. She has a Masters Degree in Theatre from Columbia University and has built a diverse career in TV, film, theatre, voice-over, ads, hosting and presenting, as well as teaching and directing.

Through her extensive experience with outreach programmes, she is a dedicated teaching artist, committed to fostering creativity and empowerment within local communities

Recent acting highlights include Claire Dunne’s acclaimed feature film Herself as well as appearances in television series such as Blood, Redemption, The Dry, and the international hit Normal People.

She can also be seen in ads for Google, Guinness, Mondello Park, Focus Ireland, and DPD.

Anita and her family are settling in nicely into their new surroundings in Enniscorthy and cannot wait for strawberry season!

Thanks to ‘Creative Places Enniscorthy’ for this content. https://www.facebook.com/CreativePlacesEnniscorthy

If you or anyone you know would like to be featured in the Creative Places Enniscorthy ‘Enniscorthy Spotlight’ series, please email cpesocials@wexfordartscentre.ie n

Hitting all the right notes

Michaela White as Pinky and some of the cast of Enniscorthy Musical Society’s successful run of ‘Happy Days – A New Musical’ which was staged recently at Coláiste Bríde, Enniscorthy.

Conor & Luc & Friends

Conor & Luc & Friends

10th May 2024

The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy

Hometown heroes Conor Kenny and Luc Power take to The Presentation Arts Centre stage with a few good friends for a magical night of music.

Fresh from their recent appearance at Wexford Opera House supporting George Murphy and The Rising Sons, and a soldout tour in Norway, these two rising stars are making big waves in the Irish music scene, and land back in Enniscorthy for this very special night on Friday May 10th.

Get your tickets early for this one – it's guaranteed to be a full house for a very proud town.

Tickets: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873645217 n

Honda 50 enthusiasts’ fundraising for Hope Centre

Members of South East Honda 50 Club will undertake a 32 County Charity Trip from Sept 5th to Sept 8th 2024 in aid of the Hope Cancer Support Centre in Enniscorthy.

RTE’s Nationwide programme recently came down to Enniscorthy to record a piece about the Honda 50 Club and the Honda 50 32-County Charity Trip. This recording was broadcast on RTE on the 10th April. Check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/bernie.travers.1/videos/297 717140017787

Keep an eye on the charity trip Facebook page for more details and how to contribute: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=615567644 37539 n

GODZILLA x KONG

Movie Review with Kyle Walsh 

I used to love going to the cinema to watch original movies. The great stories and adventures. Not knowing what is going to happen to our hero of the film. Unfortunately those days ended in the cinema years ago. I don’t get as excited any more with the new wave of Hollywood. All Hollywood does these days is repeat and rinse the same old formula almost every time you enter the cinema. Nothing original happens nowadays and if it does, it’s a very rare thing. It’s all about sequels, prequels, and remakes. Copy, copy, copy. Sad really.

When you go see these big Hollywood blockbusters these days you can almost tell the story and know exactly what is going to happen throughout the movie. Why? Because we have seen the same damn thing over and over again. God be with the days when we had original filmmakers with original ideas and they weren’t afraid to put their unique ideas on the big screen. That’s when

movies were movies. Today you would be lucky to find one good movie amongst every twenty movies that are made. Which leads me perfectly onto this review of Godzilla x Kong. Will this be one of those movies? Lets see!

It’s hard to believe that we are now a decade into Warner Bros and Legendary Pics MonsterVerse. Time flies! Are you like me and have just wiped your memory clean from the garbage Godzilla that kicked off this new wave of Godzilla and King Kong movies franchise? There was a little bit of fun to be had with King Kong Skull Island but again nothing worth remembering or revisiting the movie for. These films are supposed to be behemoth updates of the adventurous, old school thrill rides of yore, instead they leave your memory as soon as you walk out of the cinema. Which is a very sad thing. Then we, as an audience, had to watch Kong v Godzilla and Godzilla King of the Monsters which are total crap movies. Again wiped away from memory.

Unfortunately for us the big guys are back in Godzilla x Kong The New Empire. I really wish they just left this franchise where it is but typical Hollywood they will keep making garbage like this as long as they see the cash flow in the box office. So, Kong is on his own down in Hollow ground on the lookout for big hairy beasts like himself. Godzilla is on human-filled ground, on a globetrotting mission that has him destroying a lot of property along the way. The big boys don’t actually clash till near the climax of the movie which in itself is just not good enough. Kong finds a bunch of mega monkey slaves contolled by Skar King – a large primate who also contols a Godzillaish monster who can turn everything into ice if he breathes on it. So the world is in danger of an ice age. Sounds good, yeah right. Total crap. So once again the big boys have to get over their troubled relationship and help save the world. But while they’re saving the world they must have killed millions of people too from all the properties and streets they demolish in this entry of the stupid franchise. As for the human characters in this movie they are woeful. The acting is so cringy. Script is awful. It’s lazily put together and I would imagine there was some reshoots done over a course of a weekend which will tell you everything you need to know about this total crap. Why oh why do we waste our time on crap like this.

Asia did a film at the start of the year called Godzilla Minus One on a 15 million dollar budget. The very best Godzilla movie ever made. In 1933 they made King Kong, the old black and white original, still to this day the best Kong movie ever made. The rest of these remakes and sequels and prequels are absolute dirt. Wake up Hollywood and just move onto something new and original and give us a break from this rinse and repeat crap. Will they ever listen? No is obviously the answer. Godzilla x Kong gets a 3/10 from me. n

Happy nights at ‘Happy Days –A New Musical’

There were standing ovations and happy nights all round at the Irish premiere of Happy Days – A New Musical at Coláiste Bríde recently.

Well done to Enniscorthy Musical Society, under skilled director Imelda McDonagh, who brought her own very special brand of directing to bear on this production whilst losing none of the nostalgia of the original. Talented musical director Kevin Kennedy carried the audience with him throughout allowing music and song to set the pace and the rhythm and the life of this excellent chunk of entertainment. And choreographer extraordinaire, James Dobbs, had the audience rocking and rolling in their seats with his energetic, artistic, dance routines, and at the ready to jump up and join in, if given half a chance.

This kaleidoscope of colour, cacophony of song, and phantasmagoria of dance leaped off the stage with energy, exuberance, talent, and enthusiasm, and was both visually stimulating and inspiring.

The large vivacious cast gave sterling performances creating a feel-good nostalgic atmosphere transporting audi-

By Maria Nolan

ences back to 1950s Milwaukee and the days when The Fonz was our favourite TV show and we hopped and hipped with Pinky and the Pinkettes as the gang helped to save Arnold’s Drive in Malt Shop.

Audiences were carried back in time on the air of that hand clapping, toe tapping theme tune, Happy Days, with musical director Kevin Kennedy and his excellent orchestra leading the way.

The fabulous set, colourful costumes, vibrant dance moves, fantastic vocals, and wonderful acting are a credit to all involved and a testament to the trojan work that went in to creating such a stunning production.

Special mention must go to the leads Michael McKenny and Ryan Kavanagh as The Fonz and Richie, and Michaela White playing that very sassy Pink Lady, Pinky Tuscadero, all were commanding in their stage presence and powerful vocals.

The Dial Tones four-part harmonies were faultless and beautifully harmonised and melodic. The entire cast deserves to take a bow on a most excellent production along of course with the very hard-working EMS committee who keep not just this show but every show on the road.

Take a bow everyone, I’m already looking forward to your next endeavour. n

Michaela White as Pinky and Michael McKenny as the Fonz.

Harleys, hondas and cosmic racers

What a beautiful morning on the slopes of Vinegar Hill as bikers from all over the county and beyond gathered for a 70-mile Bike Run in aid of St Patrick’s School on Sunday 28th April.

Organisers Steve Sinnott, Aoife Harmon, and Paul Waters along with the chair of the parents association of St Patrick’s School, Catherine Cloke, said they were thrilled with the large turnout with nearly 100 bikes along with vintage cars and even a couple of tractors joining the convoy from Enniscorthy.

Among the exquisite Harleys and more serviceable Hondas on display and attracting a lot of attention was Mark Codd’s sidecar racer, a model and style that would do Batman or Knight Rider justice. Mark and his racing partner Eamon Mulholland have had much success in their Cosmic Racer in Mondello, Northern Ireland the UK and on the continent, and can boast being Irish Champions in the sport in 2021 and 2023.

Last year they made a trip to Chimay in Belgium to compete against some of the best in Europe and after two races came

home with two wins.

For the 2024 season they hope to retain their Irish Champion status whilst competing in some European races in Belgium, France and the Netherlands, not bad for a lad from a small village outside Enniscorthy, Ballindaggin, and a lad from Lisburn, N.I., now residing in Galway.

Its an expensive sport and the team is run with the help of local businesses and friends, family and personal investment, and the lads are always looking for more sponsorship. On Saturday 11th May they are holding a fundraiser in Redmonds of Scarawalsh at 9pm – a fun Race Night which they hope will assist them to move to the next level.

Mark and Eamonn are the only Sidecar team this side of Dublin to ever take an Irish Championship in the history of sidecar racing in Ireland so if anyone out there is interested in getting their company onboard with this new and growing sport they would be delighted to hear from you and would like to take this opportunity to thank all their sponsors and all those who support them in any way.

Similarly, the board and management of St. Patrick’s School would like to express their most sincere thanks to all who supported the Bike Run making it a huge success for the school, a most worthy recipient.

– WORDS & PICS BY MARIA NOLAN

Luke’s new book is his best yet!

Prolific Wexford writer Luke O’Connell has just published his latest book – Reggie Rex and the Lost Egg and Luke says it’s the ‘proudest I have been with a book yet... thank you to everyone who helped make it happen!’

Check out Luke’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/luke. oconnell.102 for more information or to order a copy. n

Luke O’Connell

A lovely country if you could put a roof on it!

It’s often said that Ireland would be ‘a lovely little country if only we could put a roof on it’! Whilst we all know and appreciate that there is much more to Ireland than the weather, the Members of Wexford Borough District decided, rather than leave it to the Gods, they would accept a challenge. Last month, the fruit of their labour was witnessed with the official launch of the first street in Ireland to have a roof covering its entire length.

Monck Street now has a retractable roof canopy extending over 80 metres in length – another addition for Wexford town helping to secure its position as a key tourist destination nationally.

The Monck Street Canopy is the final part of a major regeneration scheme that has transformed the once congested narrow street into a carefree pedestrianised zone where locals and visitors can dwell for a while and enjoy the host of local hostelries and food offerings.

Following a spend of over €1.5million, with the National Transport Authority Active Travel Programme providing €1.23m to fully fund the pedestrianisation works and street furniture, together with a grant of €229,000 from Fáilte Ireland Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme, Wexford County Council has delivered a unique scheme to benefit the town into the future.

Speaking at the launch, Mayor of Wexford Councillor John Hegarty said: “I welcome this very unique addition to Wexford town. I hope it is something that will add to the experience for locals and visitors alike as they come to enjoy this vibrant and thriving part of our town.”

Mr. Eddie Taaffe, Interim Chief Executive of Wexford Co. Council added: “This is a new and innovative scheme for Wexford town and hopefully will lead the way in making our town centres even more vibrant and attractive places to come and visit. We are particularly thankful to the National

Transport Authority and Failte Ireland for the support they have provided in turning this vision into a reality for all to enjoy. The Monck Street area will be a vibrant and popular place during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August for the next two years.”

Head of Ireland’s Ancient East Brian O’Flynn said: “One of Fáilte Ireland’s key objectives is to encourage tourists to explore and stay in the region for longer, increase spend and help to drive revenue for local businesses. Wexford is an important part Ireland’s Ancient East and we’re pleased to further enhance this destination with the newly opened Monck Street Outdoor Dining Infrastructure, funded by Fáilte Ireland’s Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme and developed in partnership with Wexford County Council. Outdoor dining is now a permanent feature of our hospitality offering and we are committed to supporting businesses to facilitate this for longer periods throughout the year.”

Official launch of the Monck Street Canopy at Monck Street, Wexford town – the first street in Ireland to have a roof covering its entire length. Pic: Love Wexford Town.

Acko releases ‘Born on Earth’

Enniscorthy-based musician Acko has released a new single Born on Earth – his first release since his 2022 debut solo album St. Dominic’s Disappearance.

Acko is the former frontman with Dublin band Grasshopper and co-writer and producer of two critically acclaimed albums by The Revelator Orchestra.

Born on Earth serves as a ‘soft reunion’ for Grasshopper as it features his former Grasshopper bandmates Brian K. Adams on guitar, Dan Straight on bass and Peter Murphy (AKA Cursed Murphy) on spoken word duties.

"It's the closet we're ever going to get to a full-on reunion," says Acko, "I think it combines the best parts of Grasshopper and The Revelator Orchestra."

Recorded and mixed by Acko in his home studio, Born on Earth is a BIG loud beast built around a two-chord riff. The song was inspired by a George Carlin quote, "When you are born in this world, you are given a ticket to the freak show."

The single also includes a live version of Traditional Song and the Digital Lice remix of Born on Earth.

Acko will release his second solo album Easy Journeys to Other Planets in the summer.

Born On Earth is available from Bandcamp and all the usual streaming platforms. n

Road - Enniscorthy Phone: 053 9236055

enniscorthylib@wexfordcoco.ie https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthylibrary

Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.

The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000

The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529

Andy Doyle and Niamh Crowhurst

The Power of Darkness

Blackstairs Mountain Theatre is back in action with a production of John McGahern’s riveting play The Power of Darkness which is set to light up the stage at The Presenation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy from Wednesday, 29th May, for a four-night run to June 1st, at 8pm nightly.

In this gripping play, with an amazing cast directed by John O'Gorman, we meet Peter King, a prominent landowner, who is dying. His wealth, earned by hardness and shrewdness in breeding horses, was never used to spread ease, happiness, or

comfort. He lives with his wife Eileen, who is half his age and his 20-year-old daughter Maggie. His illness forces him to employ a young workman named Paul, the son of a neighbouring farmer. Paul is quite the mixture of good looks, sexual egotism, weakness and innocence. His ruthless mother Baby is both manipulative and ambitious. The cast of diverse characters continue with Oliver – a deeply religious and god-fearing man. Added into the mix is an old retired British soldier, who is lured into the family drama but gradually becomes the plays moral voice.

The Power Of Darkness reflects a world of the not too distant past that we dare not speak about. It was first produced by the Abbey Theatre in 1991.

Cast: Benny Redmond, Joyce Varley, John O'Gorman, Murt Murphy, Norma Doyle, Andy Doyle, Niamh Crowhurst. Director John O'Gorman. Assistant Director Andy Doyle.

Tickets on sale now at The Presentation Arts Centre, tel: 053 92 33000, or online: https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.co m/ticketbooth/shows/873644410 n

The Slaney Writers group meets in Enniscorthy Library on the second Thursday of every month at 6.30pm. New members are always welcome. If you are interested please contact Enniscorthy Library on 053 9236055. Enniscorthy Library Adult Book Club meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7pm and is free to join. Book clubs are a great way to meet others and discuss books. If you would like more information or to join, contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. All are welcome. n

A talented 7-year-old artist

Ford Studio exhibition

The students of The Ford Studio, Kilmuckridge, would like to cordially invite you to view their exhibition, Fionnachtain - The Path of Discovery, which opens on Friday May 3rd from 6.30pm to 9pm and the exhibition runs until June 2nd.

The students are excited to showcase all the skills in painting, drawing and sketching they have discovered under the tutelage of Sheena Furlong and hope you can visit soon.

For more information: https://www.facebook.com/sheenafurl ongthefordstudio

Email: sheena.m.furlong68@gmail.com n

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL ARTS CENTRES

Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.

The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000

The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529

7-year-old Wexford pupil, Jude Gregan, who attends St. Kevin's National School, Gorey, has won a top prize in this year’s 70th Texaco Children’s Art Competition.

Jude won a Special Merit Award for his artwork entitled ‘Jungle Leopard’, which Final Adjudicator, Gary Granville, Professor Emeritus of Education at the National College of Art and Design, said ‘demonstrated high levels of skill and imagination’.

The Texaco Children’s Art Competition is popularly regarded as the longest-running sponsorship in the history of arts sponsoring in Ireland, with an unbroken history that dates back to the very first competition held in 1955. This year, as has been the case throughout its life, it has been a platform on which young artists from Wexford and counties throughout Ireland have had their talents recognised and their creativity commended. n

Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely

For a complete listing of upcoming music, drama, comedy, film, art, etc, see: https://www.courthousearts.ie/whats-on n

Exhibitions at The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy

The 8th Annual Open Call Exhibition –‘Celebrating Creativity’ – a stunning show by 186 artists from all over Ireland finishes on May 4th.

The Centre also has a number of online exhibitions – see https://www.presentationcentre.ie/online-exhibitions.html n

Wexford Public Libraries Social Media: Wexford Public Libraries on Facebook. Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries.

Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries.

YouTube: "Wexford Public Libraries" n

Tried-Tested-Tasted by Caitriona

Caitriona Barron from Drinagh, Wexford, grew up on her dad’s farm with plentiful homegrown veg and their own meat so “we really knew the value of good food. My mother started a seafood business after meeting my stepfather fisherman, my brother now runs the seafood business so I’m well used to fresh food.”

“I worked with the family business before leaving to be a stay-at-home mother but soon got bored (lol!) and started taking pics of my food, sharing my recipes on social media. When people started showing interest, I realised this could be a job so I bought myself a camera and threw myself in the deep of it. I love it and I get to work with amazing companies. Seeing my pictures in magazines, in shops, and occasionally on TV is pretty amazing.

“I’m a mother of two boys and, yes, juggling it all can be very tough. But I keep it going as it’s my passion now and it’s very rewarding.”

https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted and Caitriona_barron on insta n

SCONES

450g cream flour

100g butter

2 tablespoons of caster sugar

Level tsp of bread soda

200g Avonmore buttermilk I egg

200 degree fan oven 12-14 minutes but keep an eye as some ovens differ.

Weigh in 450g flour to mixer, add 1 tsp bread soda, 2 tablespoons of caster sugar and pinch of salt plus 100gr butter. Mix until like breadcrumbs.

Add egg to buttermilk, and add 150ml first and if a little dry add more liquid and maybe a little extra as the weather determines how the flour takes to the liquid. What you want is a soft dough. Turn out onto floured board and cut into 8. Brush with a little buttermilk and cook in preheated oven 200 degree for 12-14 minutes.

Enjoy with jam and cream. n

https://www.facebook.com/triedt estedtasted

Pic: Caitriona Barron.

Caitriona Barron

ooted in exford

In April's column, we delved into the joys of spring gardening, exploring the cultivation of pumpkins, spring onions, and cucumbers. From sowing seeds to anticipating harvest, we covered the essentials for each vegetable, aiming to empower both beginner and seasoned gardeners alike.

Now, as we transition into May, it's time to embrace the warmer weather and continue our gardening journey. Let's explore the cultivation of three more delightful vegetables: carrots, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage.

First up, let's talk about carrots. May is the perfect time to sow carrots directly into the soil. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with loose, well-drained soil free from rocks and debris. So make sure to pick out any stones to avoid strange looking carrots.

To sow carrot seeds, create shallow drills in the soil, about half an inch deep. Scatter the seeds thinly along the drills, aiming for a spacing of about 2 inches between seeds. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water gently to ensure good

Mark Cooke invites you to grow along with him.

passion for growing fruit and veg which he shares on his Instagram platform @rootedinwexford which has over 7,500 followers. Mark describes himself very much as a ‘hobby gardener’ who is not academically trained in horticulture. He started planting with very little knowledge a few years ago and that knowledge has now ‘mushroomed’! Mark loves sharing his passion for growing with our readers.

soil contact. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 1-3 weeks.

As the carrot seedlings grow, thin them out to ensure proper spacing, leaving about 2-4 inches between plants. Regularly water your carrots to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells (hopefully we get some sun this year). With patience and care, you can expect to harvest crisp, sweet carrots in about 60-80 days, depending on the variety.

Next, let's turn our attention to Brussels sprouts, not everyone loves them, but they are packed with flavour and nutrients. May is an ideal time to sow Brussels sprout seeds indoors for later transplanting into the garden.

Start by sowing Brussels sprout seeds in seed trays or small pots filled with seedstarting mix. Plant the seeds about a quarter of an inch deep and keep the soil consistently moist until germination occurs, which usually takes 7-10 days. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be transplanted into the garden. True leaves are the second set of leaves that develop on the seedling.

Choose a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil for your Brussels sprouts. Space the transplants about 1.5 to 2 feet apart to give them room to grow. Brussels sprouts thrive in cool weather, so be sure to provide adequate water and mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. With proper care, you can expect to harvest Brussels sprouts in about 4–5 months after transplanting. Harvest the sprouts from the bottom of the stalk upwards as they reach a suitable size, typically around 12 inches in diameter. The plant will continue to grow, and you can continue to harvest them once they grow big enough.

Lastly, let's talk about growing cabbage, another cool season favourite that's perfect for spring planting. Cabbage can be sown directly into the garden in May, just like carrots. But some people like to sow in trays first. If you like to grow in trays, use the same method as planting your sprouts. To sow directly just follow the instructions below.

Prepare the soil, add in some fresh compost to provide nutrients for your cabbage plants. Create shallow drills in the soil, about a quarter of an inch deep, and sow the cab-

bage seeds thinly along the drills. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water gently. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 7-14 days. As the seedlings grow, thin them out to ensure proper spacing, leaving about 12-18 inches between plants. Cabbage plants require regular watering and benefit from mulching to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Be careful not to mulch too close to young plants as it can damage them.

With proper care and attention, you can expect to harvest crisp, flavourful cabbage heads in about 3 months after sowing, depending on the variety. Harvest cabbage heads when they reach a suitable size and enjoy them fresh from the garden or preserved for later use.

So there you have it, a quick recap of last month's column and some tips for growing carrots, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage in May. Whether you're sowing seeds directly into the soil or starting seedlings indoors, now is the perfect time to get your garden growing. For more gardening tips and inspiration, be sure to follow me on Instagram @rootedinwexford. Happy gardening! n

Providing you with a huge choice of sessions throughout the week:

Tuesdays @ 6.30pm The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384

Wednesdays @ 8.00am, 9.30am, 11.00am, 5.30pm and 7.00pm

Enniscorthy Rugby Club – Call Trish on 087 3607615

Thursdays @ 9.30am

Enniscorthy Rugby Club – Call Trish on 087 3607615

Saturdays @ 9.00am and 10.30am The Salt n Pepper Pot, Community Workshop Call Tony on 087 1785384 Your local

NOURISH YOUR MIND

The link between Food & Mental Health!

What we eat can significantly impact our mental health, affecting mood & overall well-being. As we all focus more on our Mental Health, we are highlighting 5 key influencing factors in the positive and negative connections between food & mental health.

1. Nutrient Rich Foods

Incorporating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, eg fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds, can help reduce inflammation and promote brain function, improving mood stability. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, dark chocolate, or leafy greens, can combat oxidative stress, enhancing overall cognitive function and emotional well-being.

2. Social Connections

Food has a unique ability to bring people together. Dining out with friends or family or sharing a romantic meal for two enables meaningful social interactions. Research suggests that social isolation and loneliness increase the risk of poor mental health, while strong social ties are associated with greater resilience and happiness.

3. Mindful Eating Practices

Practicing mindful eating can be transformative for mental health. Slowing down, savoring each bite, and tuning into your body's hunger and fullness cues, helps to cultivate a deeper appreciation for food. Mindful eating has been linked to improved digestion & greater satisfaction with meals which helps support with overall wellbeing.

4. Sugar and Mood Swings

Foods high in refined sugars, such as sugary snacks, sodas, and desserts, can cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, leading to mood swings, irritability, and fatigue all which have a negative impact on mental health

5. Excessive Caffeine and Anxiety

While moderate caffeine consumption can have cognitive benefits, excessive intake can exacerbate anxiety symptoms, disrupt sleep patterns, and contribute to feelings of jitteriness and nervousness.

6. Alcohol and Depression

Sensible enjoyment of alcohol can provide a sense of relaxation, however excessive or chronic alcohol consumption can disrupt neurotransmitter balance, leading to symptoms of depression and anxiety. Alcohol also impairs sleep quality, which can further exacerbate mental health issues.

Making informed dietary choices & being mindful of the types and quantity of foods, makes a big difference on the impact of positive or negative mental health. So, meeting friends at The Bailey Bar & Eatery is good for your soul!!

New seasonal menu at Reeds Restaurant, Ferrycarrig Hotel

Wexford executive chef Liam Forde has recently joined the hotel and brings a wealth of experience and expertise with him. Liam and his team have just unveiled a delicious new locally inspired seasonal menu at the multi-award-winning Reeds Restaurant.

The new seasonal menu is abundant with award-winning Wexford food produce. Every dish on the menu features ingredients from local food businesses or from the kitchen gardens at Ferrycarrig Hotel.

Some of the starters to be enjoyed from the new menu at Reeds include Chef’s recipe beef consommé celestine with diced vegetable brunoise served with crepes julienne; Seared Kilmore scallops with pancetta, tomato concasse and a citrus-lime beurre noisette; Fresh local crabmeat brûlée served with homemade crispy bread and red onion chutney.

Some of the main courses include Richie Doyle’s locally reared 10 oz sirloin steak served with rustic truffle scented French fries and Chef’s recipe Café de Paris

Butter; a fillet of succulent spring lamb with minted pea puree, Dauphine potatoes and rosemary and wild garlic compote; a trio of Monkfish, Prawns and Scallops served with Parisienne potato, deglazed with a roast garlic white wine sauce; and an amazing experience for two people sharing – Chateaubriand fillet for 2 carved on a bed of molasses flavoured sauerkraut, barley and forest mushrooms served with a classic Béarnaise sauce.

Dessert highlights to mention a few are Chef’s own raspberry and banana soufflé with banana fritter, creme Anglaise; gateaux B-52 inter-layered with Tia Maria and white chocolate ganache and plum compote; and a Wexford strawberry vanilla pannacotta with lemon curd, fresh strawberry, strawberry coulis.

miles’ and increase food quality while also supporting the local economy. The range of suppliers includes Richie Doyle’s Craft Butchers, Meyler’s Fish Merchants, Atlantis Seafood, Wexford Home Preserves, Revilles Fruit & Vegetables, Pat O Neill’s Dry Cure Bacon, Killowen Dairy Yoghurts, Wexford Creamery, Eamon Creane’s Greenhill Farm Fruit, Cullens Fruit & Vegetables and John & Edel Redmond Rosslare Chips along with freshly grown herbs from the Ferrycarrig Hotel kitchen gardens.

The award-winning Reeds Restaurant at the four-star Ferrycarrig Hotel Reeds Restaurant has been awarded two AA Rosettes for seven years in a row. Named Best Hotel Restaurant in Wexford for two years and listed in the top five restaurants in Leinster by the Restaurant Association of Ireland and recommended by The Georgina Cambell Guide.

Reeds Restaurant is open 7 days per week for dinner. Reservations are recommended via 053 9120999. For the full menu and further details see www.ferrycarrighotel.ie n

Executive Chef Liam Forde and Senior Sous Chef Metod Prijatelj Ferrycarrig Hotel.

New trader at Enniscorthy Farmers Market

Food waste is a global problem that has environmental, social and economic consequences.

More than one quarter of the food produced globally is wasted. In Ireland, we generate nearly 800,000 tonnes of food waste every year. It is a significant contributor to climate change, as food loss and waste contribute to 8-10% of greenhouse gas emissions. Growing, processing and transporting food all use significant amounts of resources such as land, water and energy.

The average Irish household throws out 150kg of food each year and a significant amount of this food is still suitable for human consumption.

The Irish Government has committed to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030, which is in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Check out:

https://www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring—assessment/circulareconomy/food-waste/ https://stopfoodwaste.ie n

The Saturday market at the Abbey Square in Enniscorthy has been joined by The Vanilla Tree Bakery who have lots of gorgeous fresh treats available at the Enniscorthy Farmers Market from 9am until 2pm.

https://www.facebook.com/thevanillatr eebakeryarklow n

Rockin’ Food Festival events at Enniscorthy Community Allotments

In addition to the many chef demonstrations in the Food Marquee over the holiday weekend of the Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival, the organisers are working with Enniscorthy Community Allotments to deliver some exciting workshops for the whole family.

From Food Preservation, to Beginner Polytunnel Growing, Strawberry Planting with Cyril Wheelock and learning all about the history of the May Bush from Michael Fortune.... everything is covered!

There’ll even be a special visit from Kevin Dundon to see all the great things happening at the Allotments.

All events are Free of Charge, so see you there! n

Sales & Selling for Business Growth

Venue: Online

Date: 08/05/2024

Note: Break from 1.00 to 2.00 pm

Time: 10:00 - 17:00

Category: Business Training

Cost: €25

This workshop will help businesses achieve a greater understanding of what motivates people to buy and become more effective in their ability to influence and communicate with customers in order to grow sales. “Enhance your sales skills and perfect the steps of the sales cycle to increase sales.”

Overall Aim:

The aim of this workshop is to help business owners and sales staff achieve a greater understanding of what motivates people to buy and become more effective in their ability to influence and communicate with customers in order to grow sales. The participants will learn to develop the skills and techniques to gain a greater awareness of customer’s expectations, to confidently overcome and deal with objections, generate leads and ultimately increase sales whilst building valuable customer relations.

Who Should Attend:

A practical and interactive one-day workshop, the course is designed for business owners or staff responsible for generating leads and managing sales within the business on a face-to-face basis.

Trainer:

Karen Sommerville, Call Focus. n

LOCAL ENTERPRISE OFFICE

Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93

info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie

Contact: 053 9196020

Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie

Trading Online Voucher Seminar

Venue: Online

Date: 15/05/2024

Time: 09:30 - 12:30

Category: Seminar

Cost: Free

This workshop aims to educate the potential Trading Online Voucher applicant as to how the voucher is to be used and how to complete the application form.

Aim of Seminar:

This workshop aims to educate the potential Trading Online Voucher applicant as to how the voucher is to be used and how to complete the application completely so that a more complete application is received by the LEO, minimising the follow-up work required by the LEO.

Key Outcomes/Goals:

Within a highly interactive and collaborative workshop you will be equipped to: Understand the value of the Trading Online Voucher.

Determine if you fit the requirements for application.

Maximise the voucher for your business to support your online trading proposition.

Complete the voucher application properly, thereby increasing the likelihood of receiving approval from the LEO.

Utilise free and cost-effective tips to leverage your website through better utilisation of social media platforms and Google tools.

Please note that it is a requirement of the Trading Online Voucher scheme that prospective applicants participate in a seminar. Applicants for a second voucher are required to participate if they have not attended a session in the last 9 months

Trainer:

Graham Merrimam, The Entrepreneurs Academy. n

LOCAL ENTERPRISE OFFICE

Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93

info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie

Contact: 053 9196020

Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie

Looking to enhance your Business's Digital Potential? Introducing Digital for Business, a game-changing initiative from the Local Enterprise Office. Designed to equip clients with a digital edge, we offer tailored support to optimise processes, enhance customer experiences, and leverage data effectively.

Embrace technology and future-proof your business with: FREE Digital expert consultancy, FREE Digital assessment. A unique digital strategy.

Let's unlock your business's digital potential together.

Book here: https://allinadayswork.ie n

Lean For Business is designed to encourage clients to adopt Lean business principles in their organisations to increase performance and competitiveness. Lean is for all companies, regardless of sector. The scheme provides consultancy support which is up to 90% funded, with up to 5 half-day site visits available.

Lean tools and techniques are helping companies across the globe to address competitiveness issues within their businesses by building the capability of their people to identify problems, improve operations and create a more innovative organisation. In a nutshell, Lean is about doing things quicker, better and saving costs. Lean strives to remove waste and to continually improve a company.

Book here: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Financial-Supports/Lean-for-Business/ n

Co. Wexford gearing up for annual business awards A Night of Elegance and Excellence!

Date: Friday, 24 May 2024

Venue: Clayton Whites Hotel, Abbey Street, Wexford

Dress Code: Black Tie

Drinks Reception: 6:45 pm sharp

Seated: Promptly at 7:30 pm

Get ready for an evening of glamour, celebration, and recognition as the County Wexford Business Awards Gala Ceremony returns to Clayton Whites Hotel on Friday, 24 May 2024. This prestigious event promises to be an unforgettable night, honouring the excellence and achievements of the local business community.

The Annual County Wexford Business Awards have earned a reputation for being highly successful and prestigious. Mediahuis, the dedicated media partner, will be there every step of the way, ensuring the journey of these awards is well-documented.

Around 500 local business leaders will gather to witness the recognition of local companies for their remarkable achievements. With 19 awards up for grabs, including the coveted County Wexford Overall Business of the Year Award, sponsored by INTEGER, the lead sponsor for 2024, this promises to be an unforgettable evening. Wexford Chamber is also delighted with the support of its headline sponsor, Wexford County Council.

Open to both Chamber members and non-members, the awards offer a platform for businesses of all sizes across County Wexford to showcase their successes. This year, there was a record number of entries, amplifying the profile of the finalists across various print and digital platforms.

Event Highlights:

Drinks Reception: Kick off the night with a dazzling drinks reception at 6.45pm, where you can mingle and network with fellow industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals.

Awards Ceremony: Be seated promptly at 7.30pm for an evening filled with anticipation and excitement. Witness the acknowledgment of outstanding accomplishments within the County Wexford business landscape.

Musical Extravaganza: Dance the night away in celebration of a year well done!

Limited Tickets Available: Act fast! Secure your ticket for €120 plus VAT – an exclusive opportunity for those eager to join the festivities! To Book Your Seat, email: anne@countywexfordchamber.ie or call County Wexford Chamber at 053 912 2226.

County Wexford Chamber Business Awards shortlist

With top businesses across County Wexford battling it out in this year’s County Wexford Business Awards, the shortlist for this year’s popular awards was revealed on 4th April 2024.

The shortlisted businesses then went forward to the final interview stages which took place on 11th April.

Judges scored each application on multiple criteria and the winners selected across 18 categories. The winner of the Overall County Wexford Business of the Year Award, with Integer as the lead sponsor, will be chosen from the winners in each award category.

Now in their third year, the prestigious event which is organised by County Wexford Chamber with Wexford County Council as the headline partner, is widely seen as the benchmark for business success in the county.

County Wexford Chamber CEO Paula Roche says: “We’ve been blown away by the number of entries for this year’s County Wexford Business Awards. It’s been fantastic to see so many businesses sharing their stories of growth and how they’re keeping up with changes like technology and sustainability. With such a diverse range of applicants from all over the county, it’s been tough for our judges to create the shortlist. To everyone who entered, good luck! Our county is home to some incredible businesses, and these awards are all about celebrating them.”

The winners will be announced at the black-tie gala awards ceremony in Clayton Whites Hotel on Friday, May 24. These upcoming business awards will be a marvelous opportunity to gather

County Wexford Chamber CEO Paula Roche with Chamber President Lorcan Kinsella.

with local businesses across the county and celebrate the successes of the year. It will certainly be a sold-out event, with over 450 guests expected to attend the stylish awards ceremony dinner. The event will be hosted by motivational speaker, comedian and MC Alan Shortt, with music by Soul Trek & The Funk Generation.

Tickets are already selling fast so book your tables to avoid disappointment, please contact pauline@countywexfordchamber.ie or telephone 053 91 22226.

COUNTY WEXFORD BUSINESS AWARDS 2024 SHORTLIST

County Wexford Business of the Year Award (2-25 Employees)

Sponsor: Danone Biostor Ireland, Burrow Holiday Park, Dec’s Pets Ltd, Harte Outdoor Lighting, KDA, Machinelab, Sensible Safety, Urban Gym.

County Wexford Large Business of the Year Award (Over 25 Employees)

Sponsor: PwC

AirconMech, Gardiner Grain, Kare Plus Wexford, Medentech, Kersia Group, Mary Barry’s Seafood Bar & Restaurant, Scurri, The Talbot Hotel Wexford, Wexford Bus.

County Wexford Employee of the Year Award

Sponsor: Kent Stainless Cahill Brothers Hardware, Coatek, Crown Quarter, Gardiner Grain, John A Sinnott Solicitors, Scurri, Wexford Arts Centre, Wipe Your Paws Dog Grooming.

County Wexford Excellence in International Trade Award

Sponsor: Rosslare Europort

Medentech, Kersia Group, NMB Architects Ltd, Profitsflow, RB3D Ltd./INGADI, Scurri.

County Wexford Excellence in Online Business & Digital Marketing Award

Sponsor: Zurich Blackstairs Web Design, Candy Boutique, Dec’s Pets Ltd., Ferrycarrig Autobody Repairs, Missy.ie, Wardrobe Plus.

County Wexford Excellence in Retail Award

Sponsor: Pettitt’s SuperValu Candy Boutique, K&K Windows, La Crème Boutique The Clothesline Boutique, Tsquared Sports & Menswear, Wardrobe Plus.

County Wexford Excellence in Sustainability Award

Sponsor: Clayton Whites Hotel AirconMech, Buildcert Retrofit Ltd., Maldron Hotel Wexford, Profitsflow, Table Forty One.

County Wexford Family Business of the Year Award

Sponsor: Reynaers Aluminium

Breen Transport, Gardiner Grain, Harte Outdoor Lighting, Icon Group, IOAC, Meylers Fish Market, Regan Organic Produce.

County Wexford Food and Beverage Producer of the Year Award (Up to 20 Employees)

Sponsor: Irish Country Meats

Regan Organic Produce, Table Forty One, Well Preserved Ltd. T/A Mór Taste.

County Wexford Hospitality Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: South East Technological University

Clayton Whites Hotel, Crown Quarter, Dunbrody Country House, Mary Barrys Seafood Bar & Restaurant, Next Level Gaming, Pot Belly Café, Talbot Hotel Wexford, The Farmers Kitchen Hotel.

County Wexford Outstanding Contribution to the Community Award

Sponsor: Wexford People

Ballycanew-Ballyoughter Community Development

Grantstown Priory, Irish Street Art & Circus Spectacle Network (ISACS), The Solutions Group, Wexford Arts Centre, Wexford Food Producers.

County Wexford Restaurant of the Year Award

Sponsor: County Wexford Chamber

Copper Chimney, Mary Barry’s Seafood Bar & Restaurant, Table Forty One, The Holy Grail Restaurant (New Ross), The Kitchen @ Gorey.

County Wexford Service Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: Scurri

Denise’s Beauty & Skin Clinic, McGrath Quantity Surveyors, Next Level Gaming, NMB Architects Ltd, Secret Valley Wildlife Park, Talbot Hotel Wexford, Urban Gym, Wexford Bus.

County Wexford Solopreneur of the Year Award

Sponsor: Kersia Group

Kinsella Management Solutions, Make My Will, Paula Malone Carty, Tapasya – Spiritual Earth, The Clovelly, Tweeting Goddess.

County Wexford Start-Up Business of the Year Award

Sponsor: Local Enterprise Office Wexford Beaufield Steel Fabrication, Deborah Cogley Art, Doyle Hearing Solutions, Evita Kenny Weddings, The Clovelly, Wipe Your Paws.

County Wexford Tourism Provider of the Year Award

Sponsor: The Talbot Collection

Alpaca Lodge, Burrow Holiday Park, Clayton Whites Hotel, Club Choice Ireland, IOAC, JFK Trust/Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience & The Kennedy Homestead, Secret Valley Wildlife Park.

County Wexford Best Training Initiative Within An Organisation Award

Sponsor: County Wexford Chamber Skillnet

AirconMech, K&K Windows, Maldron Hotel Wexford, Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

TWO AWARDS WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON 24 MAY:

Lifetime Achievement Award, Sponsor: Monart Destination Spa. Overall County Wexford Business of the Year, Sponsor: Integer. n

Celebrating 80 Years in Business

Joyces of Wexford, a cornerstone of the Wexford business community, proudly celebrated its 80th anniversary on Thursday, April 18th. The evening, hosted by Derek and Murt Joyce at the Ferrycarrig Hotel, was a testament to the dedication, perseverance, and lasting impact of the Joyce family's legacy.

Established in 1944 by Murt Joyce Snr, Joyces began as a humble Hardware Warehouse at 7 North Main Street in Wexford Town. From those modest beginnings, the business flourished through the decades, weathering challenges and embracing opportunities, ultimately becoming a household name synonymous with quality and reliability throughout County Wexford.

Speaking at the anniversary celebration, Derek and Murt Joyce expressed heartfelt gratitude to their loyal staff whose hard work and unwavering dedi-

cation have been instrumental in Joyces' success over the years. Five employees: Brian Kelly, Simon Kirwan, Mary Tully, Breda Lafferty, and Jimmy Phillips were honoured for their remarkable service, each having devoted more than two decades to the company.

The Joyce family also extended their appreciation to their valued customers and trusted suppliers, many of whom have been integral partners in Joyces' journey since its inception.

Now entering its third generation of a family business, Joyces remains committed to growth and innovation and Derek and Murt are now joined in the business by Derek’s sons Cillian and

Ciaran. Building upon a rich heritage of excellence, they are poised to steer the company toward a future marked by continued success and community engagement.

Reflecting on the remarkable evolution of Joyces over the past eight decades, Derek and Murt Joyce recounted fond memories of the business's early days, characterised by Murt Joyce Snr's relentless determination and visionary leadership. From cycling to Dublin to source products amidst the challenges of World War II to pioneering ventures in the electrical appliances and television market, the Joyces' journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit.

As Joyces embarks on its next chapter, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the Wexford and wider community with integrity, innovation, and a dedication to exceeding customer expectations. n

Last month Joyces of Wexford proudly celebrated its 80th anniversary with an evening for staff, their partners, suppliers and the Joyce Family.

Laura McGlynn Joins Ravenport Resort as Sales & Marketing Manager

Ahead of its Grand Opening this July, Ravenport Resort is delighted to announce the appointment of Laura McGlynn as the Sales & Marketing Manager. With a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, Laura brings a dynamic skill set and a dedication to innovation to her new role.

Laura joins the Ravenport Resort team with a proven track record in sales and marketing roles within the hospitality sector. Prior to joining Ravenport Resort, Laura excelled as the Area Sales & Marketing Manager for the Talbot Collection Wexford, managing marketing strategies for multiple properties. Before that, she held the position of Marketing & Events Manager for Coast Hotel & Resorts, where she played a pivotal role in driving successful marketing initiatives across various locations.

Laura McGlynn commented on her appointment as Sales and Marketing Manager: "Joining Ravenport Resort is incredibly exciting. It allows me to combine my passion for sales and marketing with a focus on crafting exceptional experiences for our guests. I'm a firm believer in setting clear goals and continuous development, both personally and professionally, to achieve success and elevate the brand.”

"We are thrilled to welcome Laura to the Ravenport Resort team," said Therese Kelly, Director, Neville Hotels. "Her expertise and fresh approach to sales and marketing make her the ideal candidate to shape the future of our brand as we prepare for our grand opening. We're confident her positive influence will extend to both the team and the guest experience.”

Although currently open to the public, Ravenport Resort will not officially open until this coming July. Nestled alongside

Laura McGlynn, Sales & Marketing Manager. Ravenport Resort, Curracloe.

Wexford's Curracloe beach, Ravenport Resort marks the fifth addition to Neville Hotels. The second phase of the project, including 22 holiday lodges and the 18-hole championship golf course designed by Jason Straka of Fry Straka from Ohio, is due to open in 2026.

The hotel, located on a 75-hectare site, has been designed by HM Architects in Waterford, who have previously worked with Neville Hotels on the renovation and redesign of The Tower Hotel in Waterford, and most recently, the restoration and extension of The Bridge House at the Kilkenny River Court Hotel.

For more information about Ravenport Resort please visit: www.ravenportresort.ie n

Dog fouling bins

Enniscorthy Municipal District is currently looking at dog bin locations around the town. New bins will be located in areas where there is a genuine need. It is policy not to place them in housing estates, or on routes where there are already existing waste bins. It is proposed to place a new dog bin on the green space near Cluain An Oir. n

ALL HANDS (AND PAWS) ON DECK!

Above: Beach cleaning event at The White Hole Beach, Wexford, on 21st of April 2024.

Below: Registration and promotion event for Darkness Into Light, Market Square, Enniscorthy, 20th April 2024.

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL

Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9233187, 9236674. F: (053) 9236674.

E: moynevet@gmail.com

VET DIARY FOR MAY

Bealtaine.... the most magical month of the year... Everything is coming to life, the lime green leaves coming out on the beech and oak trees is the canopy above sheltering the myriad of colours underneath from the lemon yellows of the primroses hugging the sheltered ditches, the wild garlic white and intermingled with groups of bluebells bringing a purple blue haze to the forest floor that makes you stop and look. The wonder of Nature displaying just some of her regalia to brighten the dullest day.

Leading into Bealtaine, I attended a two-day seminar last weekend, held on a farm up in Ballywilliam fast making a name for itself as one of the leading lights in the regenerative agriculture. The man giving the talks was Dan Kittredge – an American who is paving the way to a new future for us all. His mission is to get the nutrient value of these regenerative and organic farms recognised and acknowledged informing consumers that even though two sets of carrots, fruit or whatever may look similar, one being organic and the other factory farmed they are two very different commodities. The nutrient value, the taste and the shelf life and vastly better than the forced-pushed and mass-produced 'thingy' masquerading as food.

with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital

He is hoping to develop the technology to scan our foods in a supermarket or outdoor market to help discern the better foods for us. Better nutrition is better health. In Ayurveda medicine, which is over 5,000 years old, their adage is, 'Let food be your medicine.'

Our soils are depleted from year in year out chemical fertilisers – be it urea, herbicides, fungicides, pesticides, they all contribute to the degradation of the microbial life of the soil, the life force of the land, and in turn ultimately our life force. The startling fact that 30 to 40% of the food we produce is thrown out is almost incredible. Something I have noticed is that deterioration of food happens quickly after purchase of mass produced foods.... it doesn't have the same shelf life at all.

Dan has set up a non-profit organisation called Bionutrient.org and it’s well worth having a look. Better again, subscribe to the website enabling them to help develop this technology quickly.

This is as relevant to our animals as it is to ourselves.

The time has come for change... A new dawn, a new day, and May days can inspire us all. Happy Bealtaine. n

If you have a topic you’d like Joe Kavanagh to address please email Slaney News at: slaneynews@gmail.com

OPENING HOURS (6 DAYS A WEEK):

9.00am–1.00pm and 2.00pm–6.00pm

Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment):

Daily 9.30–10.30am, 2.30–3.30pm, 5.00–6.00pm. 24-hour, on-call, Emergency Service: (053) 9233187.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

Full blood analysis (haematology, biochemistry)

Gas anaesthetic – Digital X-rays – Ultrasound – Bioenergy

Dermatological testing – Kinesiology – Prescription diets

Herbal remedies – Homeopathy – Allergy testing

The Suzuki Swift has been around for years and it’s known for being simple, affordable and fun to drive. The company is launching its new Swift in 2024 as a petrol mild hybrid with a starting price of just €21,495. It's arriving in dealers now.

Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the founder and editor of the online automotive magazine Changing Lanes and a jury member for Irish Car of the Year.

Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at www.changinglanes.ie

CAROLINE GETS MOTORING SUZUKI SWIF T

The new Swift hasn’t changed much in its dimensions and takes up a similar footprint to before. It looks a little more grown-up thanks to a new front end, gloss black grille and new lights with Lshaped daytime running lights. The Suzuki badge has been moved from the

grille to the bodywork.

The standard wheel size is 16-inch across the range. Like before, you can opt for a contrast roof. There’s a great selection of colours too including the new Frontier Blue and Cool Yellow. Around the back, there are more 3D-

SUZUKI SWIFT

style light clusters and a wide rear bumper.

The cabin of the previous Swift was looking quite tired and basic but the new two-tone pale grey and black interior makes the 2024 Swift far more appealing. There are still lots of hard plastics but they are disguised well and don’t look as cheap. There’s a sporty steering wheel and oldfashioned analogue dials. A new 9-inch touchscreen comes with wireless smartphone connectivity and is a big improvement on the previous version.

There are two trim levels, Motion and Ultra. Standard equipment includes a reversing camera, push button start, four electric windows, heated front seats, automatic air con and lots of standard safety features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring and traffic sign recognition.

The boot can only muster about 265 litres, which is a good way off the best in class like a Clio or Fabia. Still it will fit a few bags or suitcases and the rear seats can split fold.

The Swift is also surprisingly roomy in

the back with decent headroom and legroom for adults from time to time, though children should be more comfortable. It’s short on amenities or storage with just space in the doors for a bottle. However, in a smart move Suzuki has given the Swift conventional rear door handles rather than the hidden ones from the previous car, which makes getting in and out easier. The engine in the Swift is a brand new three cylinder, 1.2-litre petrol mild hybrid. It offers about 82hp and fuel consumption as low as 4.4 litres per 100 kilometres. A little more torque makes

it more responsive to drive than before though 0-100 km/h is a leisurely 12.5 seconds. Motor tax is €180 per year for the 5-speed manual or €190 per year for the CVT automatic.

Still it feels a lot quicker on the road because the Swift is so light weighing less than one tonne. Suzuki has reduced the roll in corners and the Swift is good fun out on the open road. It’s not too noisy thanks to a bit more sound insulation and offers a nicely cushioned ride for a small car.

In Ireland the Swift is one of the brand’s bestsellers alongside the Vitara and has been for many years. The Swift satisfies a market looking for a simple, affordable fuel-powered car. It's still astoundingly good value for a small car in 2024. The interior and equipment levels are a massive improvement over the old car and it's reasonably practical too.

The 2024 Suzuki Swift 1.2 Motion goes on sale from €21,495 with a manual gearbox or from €23,495 with a CVT. The Ultra model with more equipment is available from €22,695. n

Interior

Chapel Lane, Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, Y21 XH64

DISABLED DRIVERS LAUNCH CAMPAIGN TO KEEP ACCESSIBLE PARKING BAYS FREE FROM ILLEGAL PARKING....

their own safety are among the top reasons for not approaching somebody parked illegally in accessible parking bays, according to a survey carried out by the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland (DDAI) in April 2024 involving 2,662 people.

The Disabled Drivers Association has now launched a campaign for a nationwide Text Alert Scheme to notify the local warden when someone was parked illegally. Such a Text Alert scheme is currently only in use in three places in Ireland including Gorey.

When the respondents were asked why they wouldn’t approach anyone parked illegally, the main responses were along the following lines:

• Fear of confrontation

• Fear of being physically or verbally abused

• Didn’t want to cause a scene

• Too shy to do so

• Not worth the abuse

• Too dangerous/fear for own safety

• No point/Waste of time

• Don't have the power to tell them to move or issue a fine

58% of respondents said they had con-

cessible parking bay at one point and the main reactions and responses they received with were:

• I’ll only be a minute

• None of your business

• F…. off (and mind your own business)

• Will move if someone needs it

• No other spaces available

• Didn’t realise it was a disabled spot

• Have kids with me so must park here

• Delivering a pizza

• Said they paid road tax and could park where they liked

• Left permit at home

• Permit’s in the glove compartment

• Thought disabled people didn’t go out at night

It is an offence to park a vehicle in an accessible parking bay in a public place without a valid parking permit. Offenders receive a parking fine of €150 which increases to €225 if not paid within 28 days. Despite this, parking bay abuse is still going on, according to Richard Ryder of the Disabled Drivers Association. "It’s very clear that people want an opportunity to be able to do something about parking bay abuse but in a safe way. It’s why we are calling on city and county councils to begin using a Text Alert Scheme in their

deterrent,” Ryder said.

Under a Text Alert scheme every publicly accessible parking bay would have a sign displaying the bay number and a mobile phone number. If someone is parked in one of those bays without a permit or is misusing the permit, people can text the bay number to alert the traffic warden.

Our photo above shows Nikki Bradley, an adaptive adventurer and one of Ireland’s leading female motivational speakers. Nikki says: "I have experienced first-hand the negative knock-on effect that occurs when someone unlawfully parks in a disabled bay. I have often found myself left with no option but to park in a 'normal' parking space which makes it extremely difficult to get out of my car. The Text Alert Scheme is an excellent solution to this ongoing issue, and I welcome it wholeheartedly. It will give those living with reduced mobility that feeling of power and control that they have not had prior to now.“

The Disabled Drivers Association (DDAI) is Ireland’s leading charity for disabled drivers and passengers on a national level. It promotes independence and equal opportunity through mobility, education and training. www.ddai.ie n

Stephen O'Leary Memorial 5K Run/Walk

The 5K run/walk will take place on 5th of May. This year all proceeds will go to three charities – Monageer Community First Responder Group, First Light and Talk To Tom. Keep up to date on: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090418802965 n

A special night at the dogs

On 12th of August this year Daniel Power, and the Murphy family, will be hosting a fundraising night at the Enniscorthy Greyhound Track in aid of the Irish Hospice Foundation in memory of his nana and grandad commonly known as Thrush and Jim Murphy.

They are seeking sponsorship for the event – both raffle prizes and sponsored ads for the booklet on the night. Tickets to the event itself are €10 each and under 14s are free. It promises to be an enjoyable night for the whole family.

The Irish Hospice Foundation is a national charity that addresses dying, death and bereavement in Ireland. It advocates, educates and funds vital services across the country.

Join the group, keep up to date, order tickets etc using the following link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/77 0201278414336/ n

Charlie Dixon is All-Ireland champion

Congratulations to Charlie Dixon from Greenville, Enniscorthy, son of Stephen and Nicola, who won the B3 65kg All-Ireland Boxing title last month in Dublin. The final bout proved to be a tough one but Charlie put in another incredible performance to come out on top of a 4-1 decision.

Well done also to Joshua Delaney who was narrowly beaten in an unbelievably close fight in his semi-final of the same competition. n

New additions at Sports Hub

Additional equipment for Track and Field events has been secured for Enniscorthy’s Sports Hub. Enniscorthy Municipal District is currently procuring a storage unit to house this so it will be available for all users. The addition of a cage to the facility will allow for national events to take place in Enniscorthy for the first time. n

Aoife – Ireland’s star performer

What an impression Enniscorthy Rugby Club’s Aoife Wafer made on this year’s 6 Nations Championship.

The Ballygarret native scored a try away to France which was Ireland’s first of the tournament, then there were moments of breathtaking power with ball in hand against Italy, followed by a superb try against Wales. She was named player of the round for her efforts against both the Italians and the Welsh. The match away to England was a difficult experience as the Irish suffered a heavy defeat, before bouncing back in their last match against Scotland securing a narrow win and third place in the championship which guarantees Ireland a spot at the next World Cup –something else for Aoife to look forward to.

Aoife is one of four players nominated for Player of the Tournament – best of luck to Aoife in the voting!

The Enniscorthy senior men’s team lost out on promotion from the All-Ireland League Division 2C but the club were successful on some other fronts including winning the Under 13 Leinster League Final against Gorey last month in Portlaoise. Gorey started strong with a try and conversion early in the half. Enniscorthy fought back with a well taken try by Darragh Doyle converted by Alex Waugh. The first half ended 7 points each. Gorey took the lead with a a try early in the second half but missed the conversion. From there the momentum was with Scorthy, with an excellent team try finished off by Evan Dooley, converted by Alex Waugh. The inform David Doyle ran in an excellent individual try with Scorthy finishing strongly winning out 19 to 12. This was a huge effort by all the boys and their coaching staff Alan Butler, Paul Hill, Gordy Waugh and Darren Cloake, and team manager Sean Hennessy.

Congratulations also to the Boys U18.5s who won the Leinster League Division One Final with a final score of 37-30 against Portlaoise in a closely contested match.

Congrats also to St Mary's CBS Enniscorthy boys who won their rugby League Final against Dundalk Grammar School in Dublin on 29th April. n

Aoife Wafer in centre.

Some great initiatives at Shamrocks GAA

Shamrocks Ladies Gaelic Football Club in Enniscorthy has been chosen to take part in the Lidl and LGFA, in association with Jigsaw, One Good Club Initiative.

Over an approx ten-week period, the club will take part in events and schedules to promote positive mental health within the community and especially in young girls and women. There’s great prizes at stake so the club is really taking it seriously and have the full backing of Wexford LGFA. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057882510384

And also check out The Little Rockies initiative, details in the graphic below. n

YOUNG ENNISCORTHY MAN RAISES €3,000 FOR CHARITY

Mick Abidoye (pictured opposite), an Enniscorthy native, business owner and influencer, has lived in Enniscorthy for most of his young life going to primary and secondary here in the town. His family still lives in Enniscorthy. Mick himself is now based in Manchester but is in and out of Ireland on a regular basis.

Created in Éire (CIE) is an award-winning initiative of his which showcases and promotes Irish content creators, musicians, and businesses with daily news updates through its social media.

CIE proudly presented ‘Ard Ríocht’ – a charity boxing event at Dublin's Bluebell FC on 30th March to fundraise for Shannon's Hopeline, a charity whose mission is to educate and support young people and their families in the Dublin area on the importance of mental health care.

The charity aims to prevent suicide and reduce stigma by providing resources and support to those in need. It is run by Sandra and Lisa Kelleher.

The main bout of the boxing event featured a match between Mick himself and Naoise McKenna with the King of the Ring middleweight Ard Riocht belt on the line. Mick secured a well deserved victory on the night and his business, Created in Éire, successfully raised €3,000 for the chosen charity.

Featured in the group image opposite are Mick Abidoye (centre) presenting Sandra and Lisa Kelleher of Shannon’s Hopeline with a cheque for €3,000.

At the same boxing event, Fernando Mersam, a Romanian native who lives in Enniscorthy, and originally a music artist who goes by the name Prince FA, also fought.

Fernando began his boxing training in 2019, at the age of 15, in the Enniscorthy Boxing Academy, trained by some of Ireland’s finest coaches –Declan Foley, Fergus Turner and the late, great Ray Hutchinson. He trained up until Covid hit but stopped then until a month before the Dublin event when he was called up at short notice for a fight. Despite having only four weeks of training, he was up for the challenge and left Dublin with a victory for Enniscorthy and Romania over Leo CJ from Trim, Co. Meath. n

Mick Abidoye

Above: Sandra and Lisa Kelleher with Mick Abidoye and the cheque for €3,000. Below: The winner – Fernando Mersam on left.

Bree Billiards and Snooker

Winner Dwaine O'Shea, Referee John Kehoe, Chairman John Bolger.

Below right: Cup Semi-finalist Stephen Murphy, Winner Dwaine O'Shea, Runner-up Shane Dawson, Semi-finalist William Cahill.

Bottom right: Chairman John Bolger, Plate Semi-finalist Tommy Butler, Plate Winner Patrick Leacy, Plate Runner-up John Wilson.

On Saturday March 9th, a good crowd met up in the Clubroom of Bree Billiards and Snooker Club for the presentation of a new memorial Cup and Shield from the family of the late Paddy Long, Ballybuckley, Bree.

Chairman John Bolger said the club was honoured to accept the trophies in memory of a well respected clubman. Paddy was skilled in the sport of billiards, always willing to coach younger players and he captained many a club team to county success over the years. He was also a fine snooker player, and the Shield has been allocated to the last tournament of the season, the ‘Paddy Long Shield’ Knockout Snooker Tournament, which is currently in progress.

On March 29th, the final of the ‘John Bolger Memorial Billiards Cup’ saw Dwaine O'Shea (+70) defeat Shane Dawson (+70) on a scoreline of 200 to 141 to take the honours. The match was close up to the 100 mark, then Dwaine began to open up a lead. John Keogh, Ballindaggin, national and international billiards referee, kindly accepted an invitation to officiate on the night. Beaten semifinalists were William Cahill (+100) and Stephen Murphy (+30).

This tournament was run on a new round-robin group format for the initial preliminary stage, with players handicaps halved, and playing to a scoreline of 100. In total, 24 entries resulted in 4 groups of 6. The top 3 from each group were then drawn into 4 groups of 3, to play out for the quarter finals of the Cup competition. The bottom 3 from each group entered a similar draw, and competed for a place in the quarter finals of the Plate competition. This format ensured each entrant gained invaluable competitive experience in matchplay billiards.

The final of the Plate competition took place on April 10th. In a very tight match, which could have gone either way, Patrick Leacy (Scr) won by a narrow margin of 5 points over his opponent, John Wilson (Scr), on a scoreline of 200 to 195 to take home the ‘Dawson Shield’. Beaten semi-finalists were Tommy Butler (+40) and Mark Dunne (+25).

– Pat Bolger, P.R.O.

Above: Presentation of Paddy Long Memorial Cup and Shield by the Long family.

Right: Cup

Johnstown Castle’s restored stained-glass window

On 11th April 2024 a historically significant stained-glass window, dating back to the First World War, was unveiled at Johnstown Castle, Wexford, following painstaking restoration.

Crafted in 1920 by the esteemed stained glass manufacturing company Earley & Co. of Camden Street, Dublin, the 6ft x 11ft window depicts a scene from the resurrection of Christ and was originally housed in the Church of Ireland Rathaspeck Church, linked to the Johnstown Castle Estate.

Unfortunately, the window fell victim to vandalism in the mid1980s. Dr. Austin O’Sullivan of the Irish Agricultural Museum at Johnstown Castle rescued the shattered remnants in 1985, ensuring its preservation and preventing it from further dereliction. For over forty years, the panels and fragments lay safely stored at the Irish Agricultural Museum until 2023 when the Heritage Council provided crucial grant support to the Irish Heritage Trust which cares for and manages the property since 2019. This support enabled the painstaking restoration work to commence under the skilled hands of stained-glass window conservator Colette Langan of Irish Stained Glass, operating from her studio in Co. Leitrim.

The restoration project, spanning approximately six months, was a labour of love and dedication. Collaborating closely with Matt Wheeler, the Irish Heritage Trust’s General Manager at Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens, Colette meticulously researched missing pieces of the window to authentically recreate the lost sections.

The restored window now graces the wall of the Flag Hall of the Castle – formerly known as the Grand Staircase Hall – where it is backlit and can be admired as part of the daily guided tours of the castle, allowing visitors to connect with the poignant history it represents.

The window commemorates Gerald FitzGerald, the only son of Lord and Lady Maurice FitzGerald of Johnstown Castle, and Desmond Otho Paget, a cousin of the FitzGerald family. Gerald, serving with the 4th Royal Irish Dragoon Guards, fell in battle in France on September 13, 1914, at the age of 28. Desmond, serving with the King’s Royal Rifle Corps, met his fate in March 1918 at the tender age of 18. n

Daily tours of the castle are available, pre-booking is advised. Visitors can also avail of annual membership of the Irish Heritage Trust. www.johnstowncastle.ie www.irishheritagetrust.ie/stained-glass-restoration Left & above: Stained-glass window conservation by Colette Langan. Pics: Colin Shanahan DIGICOL.

New book on the May Bush in Co. Wexford

After years in the making, and six months of design and writing, Michael Fortune and Aileen Lambert are delighted to be bringing out their new book The May Bush in County Wexford. A first of its kind, it features 130 pages of living and archival accounts, photos, interviews, verses, songs and folklore relating to the May Bush and May folklore tradition all over Co. Wexford as well as recognising the links across Ireland, Europe and over to Newfoundland and the United States. The front cover features the late Marie Coleman from Curragraigue, Enniscorthy, with her May Bush on May Eve last year. Marie passed away a few months after the photo was taken and the book is dedicated to Marie and all the women and men of that generation who kept the tradition alive in Co. Wexford.

The book will be officially launched on 9th May but can be preordered now. It costs €15 plus postage and can be shipped to every corner of the world. Only 1,000 copies are being printed so order now to secure your copy.

To order or find out more: www.folklore.ie n

May Day Ceremony

To commemorate May Day and the 1911 Wexford Lock Out His Worship the Mayor, Cllr. John Hegarty will lay a wreath at The Lock Out Gate The Faythe, Wexford 11am Sunday 5th May

Protecting Co. Wexford’s archaeological monuments

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform Malcolm Noonan TD announced last month that over €7.4 million will be awarded to 140 projects around the country through the 2024 Community Monuments Fund to help owners and custodians of archaeological monuments to safeguard them into the future. The funding will also create thousands of hours of employment for specialist craftspeople and traditional skills practitioners. Five specfic projects in Wexford are set to receive €286,081.

First established in 2020, the Community Monuments Fund aims to conserve, maintain, protect and promote local monuments and historic sites. Funding is available to allow conservation works to be carried out on monuments that are deemed to be significant and in need of urgent support. The aim is to encourage access to monuments and improve their presentation and also to build their resilience to help them withstand the effects of climate change.

The CMF supports essential repairs and capital works for the conservation of archaeological monuments and also the development of Conservation Management Plans to identify measures that may be needed to conserve monuments. Grants are also available to enhance public access infrastructure

and interpretation at archaeological monuments.

The five Wexford projects awarded funding this year are:

St Nicholas Church Clonmines, Wellingtonbridge - €120,000

Ballycogley Castle - €100,000

Ballingly Church - €29,427

Ladys Island Castle - €18,758

Killag Church - €17,897

Minister James Browne TD has welcomed the funding announcement. He says, “The Community Monuments Fund

supports the conservation, maintenance, protection, and promotion of County Wexford historic sites. St Nicholas Church in Clonmines, Wellingtonbridge is earmarked for €120,000 in funding as a conservation management plan has already been prepared demonstrating the need for works at this Norman site.

€100,000 has been awarded to the 13th century Ballycogley Castle, which will support essential repairs and capital works for the conservation. Conservation management plans/reports aimed at identifying measures for conservation of monuments and improved public access will be developed at Killag Church and Lady’s Island Castle respectively. The ruined medieval church in Killag once stood at the centre of the medieval manor of Ballymagir while The Castle is located at the heart of the island of Our Lady’s Island. €29,427.25 will be dedicated towards the for enhancement of access infrastructure and interpretation at Ballingly Church outside Wellingtonbridge.

“Funding for these five projects will enhance the Norman Way along the south coast of County Wexford. I will continue to work with my government colleagues to prioritise investment like these grants for County Wexford projects.” n

Killag Church

St Nicholas Church Clonmines

Marconi’s radio amateurs honour their hero at Rosslare Strand

His father was from Italy and his mother was from The Still on the western side of Enniscorthy town. Giuseppe Marconi was an Italian aristocrat and Annie Jameson, granddaughter of John Jameson, the whiskey distillery founder, lived at Daphney Castle, (alas no more) near Monart and Carley’s Bridge. Annie was studying opera and music in Italy when she met Giuseppe.

But for their son Guglielmo, a scientist who became the father of ‘wireless’, today’s world might never have had radio or mobile phones.

Guglielmo was born to Giuseppe and Annie on 25 April 1874. That’s 150 years ago last month and that is why radio enthusiasts from the South Eastern Amateur Radio Group or Searg came from all over the south east to Rosslare Strand last month. At aged 20, Guglielmo experimented with sending telegraph messages through the air using radio waves. Up to then, such messages could be sent only by wires. Ignored by the Italians, he and his mother Annie moved from their home in Bologna to Bedford, England, where the boss of the British Post Office sponsored him. In 1898, he was commissioned to go to Dun Laoghaire and set up a radio wave transmission from a small tugboat out in the bay from which he reported successfully on a yacht race to a base-station beside the present day DLR Lexicon library. A plaque there tells the story.

In 1901, he came to Rosslare Strand and set up a radio transmission station at a house built for him across the road from Kelly’s Hotel. It was to house one of eight transmission stations that would transmit messages via radio waves from Poldhu in Cornwall, Wales, to Clifden in Co. Galway. The other stations were at Malin, Crookhaven, Letterfrack, Rathlin and Ballycastle. Marconi eventually made world history by sending the first wireless message from Europe to Singal Hill, St. John’s Newfoundland, in Canada, on December 12, 1901.

South Eastern Amateur Radio Group members came from Waterford, Kilkenny, Carlow, Wicklow and Wexford to the car park at Rosslare Strand to commemorate their hero.

Searg member Martin Murphy from Tramore and PRO Seany Byrne from Bagenalstown explained how Marconi’s men laid cables and erected masts along the present car park to the transmission station at what is known today as Marconi House, owned by the Moran family, a few hundred yards away.

Retired Enterprise Ireland official in the US, Nick Mernagh of Enniscorthy recalled being at Marconi House and seeing the window through which Marconi’s engineers brought the wires to transmit his messages.

The Searg members explained the importance of today’s amateur radio groups who, apart from being a worldwide family,

act in finding missing people, and as back up to the emergency services when power goes down in earthquakes, tornados, floods or when other communications fail or can’t be made. Each member must have a special Government licence to transmit.

Compared to Marconi, the Searg members at Rosslare Strand, each talking to the other using special call signs, had bunches of modern handsets and sophisticated transmitters including tiny Morse Code handsets. They communicated from a mobile base station, set up in a tent and caravan there, with about 20,000 amateur radio enthusiasts on High Frequency (HF) and also on VHF and UHF, across Ireland and simultaneously to millions across the world including England and Wales, the US, Japan, and Australia for the annual International Marconi Day which coincides this year with his birthday.

Martin Murphy said that for this year, Rosslare Strand was ‘a special event station’ with a call sign EI 150 IMD – EI for Ireland and 150 IMD for 150 years and International Marconi Day.

For hosting and helping them, the group thanked Cornish Radio Amateur Club, call sign G4CRC in Wales, Rosslare Development Association, Wexford County Council, Eleanor White and Steve Kelly, call-sign EI2JLB. South Eastern Amateur Radio Group are on www.searg.ie, on X @seargnews, on Facebook and email: southeasternarg@gmail.com

M.F.

Top left: Seany Byrne, Bagenalstown, and Breda Gaffney Kelly, Rathnure. Top right: Annie Jameson with her children Guglielmo, aged 6, and Alfonso (credit: Marconi, Physics World). Above left: Marconi demonstrates his radio waves discovery. Above right: Meeting with Rosslare Development Association.

Don’t mow, let it grow!

decades. By reducing mowing – even to once a month – you will help them to slowly return, one pocket at a time

You can do this everywhere! Roadside verges, lawns, schools, parks, field margins, farm lanes. Even tiny biodiversity meadows or margins are valuable.

Take part in #NoMowMay and leave your lawnmower in the shed for May.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=82&v =DY2tMCr0NR8&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2 F%2Fmail.google.com%2F&embeds_referring_origin=ht tps%3A%2F%2Fmail.google.com&source_ve_path=Mjg 2NjQsMjg2NjY&feature=emb_logo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DE4eRwX6cuc n

Funding for local communities

Wexford TD and Minister of State for Law

Reform James Browne has confirmed that three County Wexford regeneration projects have been approved for funding.

Welcoming the funding, Minister Browne commented, “Three County Wexford villages will benefit from significant government funding to support transformative development projects. Half a million will support the development of a destination park in Rathgarogue village enabling organic food production in allotments / greenhouses to be sold in artisan markets on site. Other features will include a sensory garden, woodland, village green, marquee and playground. Nearby in Cushinstown, the refurbishment of derelict farm buildings and walled garden into a multi-purpose community facility focusing on

crafts, music, horticulture, events and local markets will be boosted by €250,000 in government funding. Meanwhile in Carrig-on-Bannow, €247,590 will fund the creation of a recreation amenity including playground, sensory garden, pocket woodland and picnic area in the heart of the coastal village adjoining the community centre.

“These forward-looking projects will result in significant local benefits for these three communities. I want to commend these three community groups for pitching these transformative plans and for Wexford County Council in backing such initiatives. These three projects prove the government’s commitment to back local communities in developing community facilities for the benefit of all, which will last well into the future.” n

Cleaning at White Hole Beach

The community in Wexford came together for an afternoon of local knowledge and beach cleaning at The White Hole Beach, Wexford, on Sunday the 21st of April 2024.

Clean Coasts hosted the community event at the White Hole Beach, Wexford, as part of the annual Clean Coasts Roadshow series, warmly welcomed by the Tomhaggard Clean Coasts group and local residents. The afternoon started with an informative talk from retired Conservation Ranger of the Wexford Wildfowl Reserve, Dominic Berridge. Dominic spoke about the history and formation of the lagoons at Tacumshin Lake which are situated behind the dunes of the White Hole Beach. Attendees learnt about the formation of the lagoons and the various birds and wildlife that reside in this peaceful coastal landscape. Following this the group headed to the dunes and beach front to start the clean-up. This

area is part of a wider coastal lagoon which is both a Special Area of Conservation and Special Protected Area. This area has designated protected status due to its large volume of biological diversity, including 14 named species of waterbirds and ducks and habitats such as sand dunes and wetlands. Therefore, cleaning of the area is imperative to protect these species and habitats. A massive well done to all involved in the event, a huge effort was made which resulted in 24 bags of rubbish, 4 lobster pots and a tyre being removed from the beach. The group finished the afternoon basking in the sun with a bun and cup of tea.

The Clean Coasts Roadshow is a series of informative talks and workshops tailored for coastal communities across Ireland, taking place between January and May each year. This initiative brings together individuals interested in protecting their local beaches, seas, and marine environments.

The Roadshow events cover a range of topics, including biodiversity, dune systems, marine litter, wildlife, sustainable developments, and the work of local groups and organisations. These events also serve as a platform for community groups to discuss practical matters, such as building volunteer capacity, attracting new members, and sharing responsibilities. Additionally, Clean Coasts Development Officers explain various funding opportunities at a national and regional level, including the Clean Coasts grant scheme for 2024.

In 2023, Clean Coasts celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of collaboration with communities to protect Ireland’s waterways, coastline, seas, ocean, and marine life. The Clean Coasts Roadshow in 2024 is a special opportunity to connect with and appreciate the communities and volunteers who have contributed to Clean Coasts' growth and success. n

Coastal photography competition

The Love Your Coast Photography Competition 2024 is now open for entries so this is your chance to capture the beauty of Ireland's stunning coast.

Love Your Coast is one of Ireland's most popular photography competitions, inviting photographers to explore and celebrate the breathtaking beauty of the Irish coast. Now in its 15th edition, Love Your Coast has been attracting thousands of photographers from across the country each year.

With a prize fund of €5,000, Love Your Coast offers photographers the opportunity to showcase their talent across five distinct categories:

Coastal Landscape Heritage and the Coast Wildlife and the Coast Underwater People of the Coast

Each category highlights different aspects of the Irish coast that make it so unique, from its stunning landscapes and rich heritage to its diverse wildlife and vibrant coastal communities.

Photographers are encouraged to submit their best shots capturing the essence of the Irish coast by August 21st 2024 at 5pm. As part of the competition, Clean Coasts will be sharing valuable resources to help participants hone their skills and enhance their submissions. This includes a guidance document featuring tips from the competition judges, informative blog posts, and detailed information on each category.

Bronagh Moore, Clean Coasts Manager,

says: "We are delighted to bring back Love Your Coast for its 15th year... For over 20 years, Clean Coasts has been working with communities to preserve the beauty of the Irish coast. This competition celebrates the beauty of our coastal treasures that our communities work hard to protect. We can't wait to see the incredible entries that photographers will capture this year."

For more information about Love Your Coast and to submit your entries, please visit www.cleancoasts.org

You can see shortlisted and winning images from 2023 here: https://cleancoasts.exposure.co/love-your-coast2023-images

A video announcement can be found here: https://youtu.be/PEBJgOURAtc

SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook: @CleanCoasts

Twitter: @CleanCoasts

Instagram: @cleancoasts

YouTube: Clean Coasts Ireland

Linkedin: Clean Coasts n

Entry by Graham Murphy in 2023.

Entry by Adrian Hendroff in 2023.

Entry by Megan Gayda in 2023.

Young people making Enniscorthy cleaner and greener

The Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group was delighted to link in with Coláiste Bríde Secondary School last month to carry out another An Taisce National Spring Clean event.

The group was heartened to see the dedication and enthusiasm these young ladies have for our town and environment. A credit to their school, families and town.

The girls did great work collecting five bags of litter, three bags of recycling, and nappies! A few Re-turn cans also for the Tidy Towns group to get deposits back on and put towards future events.

The group says a big ‘thank you’ to Mr White and the school for helping to make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener. n

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns email: enniscorthytt@gmail.com

Well done to the Foróige Youth Club and Enniscorthy East Community Development who conducted an An Taisce National Spring Clean event last month (see photo above).

All these young people are a credit to the town. And thanks also to Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre for hosting the event.

Two full bags of recycling were collected and three bags of litter.

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns has significantly ramped up its efforts this year with more events planned as we move into the summer. n

Wexford County Council is delighted to announce Climate Action Week, an inaugural event which will take place from 13th to 19th May, 2024.

This festival of Climate Action will bring together the local authority, organisations, communities and individuals as they host and participate in a diverse

See full programme on pages 60-61.

range of events and collaborations.

We are all aware of how climate change is affecting our lives on a daily basis through extreme weather events, coastal erosion and food shortages. It is anticipated that this awareness-raising week will assist in encouraging us all to play our part, no matter how small, by increasing our knowledge of climate

change and specifically the options available on how to adapt and mitigate against its effects.

Details of Climate Action Week events including SEAI Home Energy Grant Clinics, library-based environment/climate themed events, an Open Farm Visit and more can be found on pages 60-61. n

Kilcannon Garden Centre & Restaurant

doing its bit for the environment!

Kilcannon Garden Centre & Restuarant is certainly leading the way when it comes to the environment and sustainability.

Kilcannon’s charging stations now feature e-chargers, helping you power up while reducing environmental impact.

Kilcannon grows its own veggies! Enjoy fresh and sustainable meals at the restaurant on site, made with love from ingredients grown right there.

Kilcannon’s takeaway coffee cups are now fully recyclable, making your morning brew more planet-friendly.

Kilcannon has said goodbye to take-away plastic utensils. It now uses eco-friendly wooden utensils to reduce plastic waste.

Kilcannon’s pots are recyclable! When you're done with your plants, recycle the pots to give them a new life.

Kilcannon’s moss pots are here! Explore the new range of biodegradable moss pots, perfect for adding greenery to your space without harming the earth.

Kilcannon’s compost bags are now recyclable, ensuring that your waste disposal practices stay eco-friendly. n

Slaney environment

Tirlán launches new ‘River Slaney Project’ to enhance water quality

On 10th April 2024, Tirlán, Ireland’s leading farmer-owned dairy and grain co-operative, launched the Farming for Water: River Slaney Project, a collaborative initiative designed to enhance water quality across the Slaney River catchment area in counties Wexford, Carlow, and Wicklow.

The River Slaney Project is closely aligned with the Government’s €60 million European Innovation Partnership (EIP) ‘Farming for Water’ project aimed at improving water quality at local, catchment, and national levels. This is crucial to help make the best possible case for Ireland to successfully retain the Nitrates Derogation from 2026.

The multi-year programme will include a series of combined projects, actions and activities led by Tirlán in collaboration with key stakeholders including Teagasc, professional services firm IFAC, Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO), County Councils and the wider community.

The project will follow a whole of sector and local government approach with the aim of enhancing water quality through impactful actions across all farming enterprises, dairy, grain and drystock, and in the wider communities. A team of Tirlán farm advisors will utilise best practice advice and focus on improving farm economic and environmental performance to address water quality challenges, while protecting biodiversity.

The advisory service will focus on better

nutrient use, improved milk solids, farm infrastructure and slurry storage capacity.

It aims to transform the Slaney from one highlighted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) water testing programme as a ‘catchment of concern’ to one that provides best practice in how partnerships and collaboration can deliver real and meaningful changes and improvements that work for farmers, local communities, and the wider environment together.

In recognition of this, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD, recently launched the River Slaney Project in Enniscorthy. Minister McConalogue called for a collective effort to make real improvements to water quality in key regions to ensure Ireland and Irish farmers secure the Nitrates Derogation from 2026.

Minister McConalogue commented: “I am delighted to launch ‘Farming for Water: River Slaney Project’. This very welcome Tirlán initiative is aligned with the Government’s wider Farming for Water European Innovation Partnership (EIP) project that brings together a range of national agencies, authorities, and industry groups. These pioneering projects are working in partnership with farmers to implement targeted actions to reduce nutrient losses and improve water quality.”

John Murphy, Tirlán Chairperson, added: “The Slaney River is the lifeblood of the South-East and is a crucially important river

catchment for our communities and our farms. In turn, as custodians of the land we take our responsibility seriously to ensure our actions work to preserve and enhance our local environment, for the economic and environmental benefit of all.

“Working together, as part of a collaborative project, we believe that we can make a difference and enhance water quality. We want to ensure that Tirlán, alongside our farmers, do everything we can and make the best possible case for Ireland to successfully retain the Nitrates Derogation into 2026 and beyond. We believe that the River Slaney project will show that it is possible to farm at current levels and maintain good water quality.”

Jim Bergin, Tirlán CEO added: “The River Slaney Project is a significant project for Tirlán to undertake and is aligned with the goals set out in both the national Farming for Water project and our Living Proof sustainability strategy.

“I welcome the support that we have received to date, and am calling on our dairy, grain and drystock farmers, local communities, authorities and other partners to join with us in this collective effort to enhance water quality throughout the region and protect these critical farming sectors for generations to come. This is a collaborative multi-agency exemplar project and it is vital that the whole agricultural sector joins together to deliver meaningful and lasting results on our river catchments.” n

Farmers are being encouraged to continue efforts to enhance water quality and make the best possible case to retain nitrates derogation. Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue (second from left above) says, “this collaborative project can serve as template for rest of country”.

Win €500 for your school!

Would you like to win €500 for your school and the title of Wexford’s Cleanest School 2024?

Simply enter the Wexford Co. Council ‘Snap into Action’ competition in conjunction with Spring Clean Wexford 2024, before the closing date of 17th May 2024.

For further information please see the steps to follow in the accompanying graphic, or go to: https://bit.ly/48MPgLE

Please share this information with your local primary school and help Wexford Co. Council in its fight against litter. n

2GOCUPS now available at Eco-Kind

Globally, we use 500 billion single-use cups every year, and in Ireland alone we use over 200 million! Although disposable cups are marketed as “recyclable” and “compostable”, only 1 in 400 cups are properly disposed of, meaning more than 99% of disposable cups end up in landfills or incineration.

Did you know that whilst 7/10 people own a reusable cup, it is estimated that only 1/10 people actually use them! That’s where the 2GOCUPS deposit and return scheme comes in, providing all the convenience of a takeaway cup.

Now available at the wonderful Eco-Kind zero waste and coffee shop, Duffry Hill, Enniscorthy. https://www.facebook.com/EcoKindRefillShop

Find out more about 2GOCUPS on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odVDRtP6lyI n

On Saturday the 13th of April 2024, Clean Coasts hosted a community event at Old Bawn Beach, Cahore, County Wexford, as part of the annual Clean Coasts Roadshow series, warmly welcomed by the locals and Ballygarrett Tidy Towns. The event, part of the annual Clean Coasts Roadshow series, featured an informative walk and talk led by the Wicklow National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) team along Old Bawn Beach regarding all things marine wildlife and environment.

The event started with a stroll through the willowy wetlands, where participants could listen to birdsong of Willow Warblers and Meadow Pipits. Participants learned about the formation and significance of the dune system at Cahore, gaining insights into the unique plants and birds inhabiting the area, and the imperative need to safeguard the dunes from erosion.

Upon reaching the beach, attendees had a chance to learn more about local biodiversity, as the team showcased welk eggs, cockle shells, mermaids' purses, and even freshwater eels. A highlight of the excursion was the visit to the Little Tern's nesting site, a crucial spot along the coastline between Old Bawn Beach, Wexford, and Kilcoole Beach, Wicklow. Conservation ranger Padraig Webb shared the challenges faced by the Little Tern colony and the NPWS's tireless efforts to protect it, including erecting fences and signage to prevent trampling.

The day ended with a rewarding beach clean-up session, followed by a well-deserved cup of tea, fostering community spirit and networking opportunities.

The Clean Coasts Roadshow is a series of informative talks and workshops tailored for coastal communities across Ireland, taking place between January and May each year. This initiative brings together individuals interested in protecting their local beaches, seas, and marine environments.

The Roadshow events cover a range of topics, including biodiversity, dune systems, marine litter, wildlife, sustainable developments, and the work of local groups and organisations. These events also serve as a platform for community groups to discuss practical matters, such as building volunteer capacity, attracting new members, and sharing responsibilities. Additionally, Clean Coasts Development Officers explain various funding opportunities at a national and regional level, including the Clean Coasts grant scheme for 2024.

In 2023, Clean Coasts celebrated its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of collaboration with communities to protect Ireland’s waterways, coastline, seas, ocean, and marine life. The Clean Coasts Roadshow in 2024 is a special opportunity to connect with and appreciate the communities and volunteers who have contributed to Clean Coasts' growth and success. n

Clean Coasts at Cahore

€79.5 million Ash Dieback Disease support package

Additional €79.5 million support package for Farmers impacted by Ash Dieback Disease approved.

The government has just approved an Action Plan to provide additional supports for farmers with forestry plantations impacted by ash dieback disease.

Speaking after the announcement, Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity, Senator Pippa Hackett said: “I am delighted that my government colleagues have backed this Ash Dieback Action Plan. I was determined to bring forward an action plan that would address both the concerns of farmers and landowners impacted by ash dieback, and the recommendations of the independent review group I commissioned last year. I believe this plan delivers on both of those fronts and I am particularly pleased to be in a position to put in place an additional €79.5 million of funding that will allow us to pay a new Climate Action Performance Payment of €5,000 per hectare to those impacted ash plantation owners who have fully engaged with my Department’s reconstitution schemes.”

There are a number of elements to the financial support for farmers whose plantations are affected by ash dieback, namely:

100% increase in the site clearance grant rate, from €1,000 to €2,000, under the new Forestry Programme compared to the previous reconstitution scheme;

Enhanced replanting grant rates under the new Forestry Programme, in accordance with the chosen forest type. For example, Forest Type FT12 (conifer) will attract €3,858 per hectare, while planting of Forest Type 1 (native trees) will attract €6,744 per hectare, and agroforestry €8,555 per hectare. These new grant rates represent an approximately 20% increase on those available under the previous programme;

Those applicants whose sites are still in premium will continue to receive the premium due for the remaining years.

They will also receive a once-off top-up payment equivalent to the difference between the existing premium and the associated new Forest Type premium under the new Programme. For example, a farmer with seven years remaining premium who enters into the Reconstitution Scheme to plant FT1 (native forest), will be entitled to receive a lump sum payment of approximately €3,336 per hectare.

The new financial component of today’s Action Plan – a Climate Action Performance Payment (CAPP) is €5,000 per hectare for participants in reconstitution schemes. This payment will be made available to all ash forest owners who have, or will, fully engage with the Department’s ash dieback schemes, to clear sites and carry out replanting.

The overall package being made available to ash plantation owners will amount to in excess of €230 million.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue TD said: “This Action Plan demonstrates the determination of my Department to deal definitively with the ash dieback issue, and to fully address the concerns of farmers and other landowners, as outlined in the Independent Review Group’s report. It is a comprehensive response, and one which I hope will also serve to boost interest and participation in Ireland’s 2023-2027 Forestry Programme.”

Minister of State with special responsibility for research and development, farm safety and new market development, Martin Heydon TD, also welcomed today’s Cabinet approval. He said: “It is in all our interests that farmers are supported to deal with ash dieback through the clearance of affected plantations, not least from the viewpoint of farm safety. The Action Plan being announced today provides the necessary tools to achieve that objective, and I urge farmers to en-

Brendan Cahill-Flynn, Green Party local election candidate for the Enniscorthy district, says:

“This is extraordinarily welcome news. Many farmers and other landowners have been championing the effort against climate change by engaging with new forestry schemes. In my discussions with them, they have outlined their fears of further engagement due to the risk of diseases such as Ash Dieback, and I have been calling for measures to offer them greater protection. This is a major step for Irish forestry.”

gage with my Department’s Reconstitution Scheme at the earliest opportunity.”

Concluding, Minister Hackett confirmed that her Department has now published the Action Plan, and that it will immediately progress the work required to implement the actions. She said: “My Department will now put the necessary arrangements in place to follow through on the actions as outlined. Indeed, much of this work is already under way. I am also establishing a sub-group of the recently convened Forest Strategy Consultative Committee, which is comprised of all of the relevant stakeholders, to facilitate a co-ordinated response and a swift implementation of the Ash Dieback Action Plan. This taskforce, which addresses another of the key recommendations of the Independent Review Group, will meet in the coming weeks.” n