See ‘First Day at School’ photos on pages 30, 31, 48.
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
Hemp Seeds: Containing all 20 amino acids, proteins Edestin and Albumin, omega-3 (x2), omega-6 (x2) and omega-9 fatty acids, Vit E, soluble and insoluble fibre, Iron, Zinc, Magnesium and much more. Supports cellular function, immune system and gut microbiome health. 1kg and 500g bags now available.
Welcome to the September issue of the Slaney News. Last month the Hope Cancer Support Centre announced the amount raised for it by this years’s Hope & Dream 10 event – an incredible €174,391.35. Well done to all involved in this remarkable annual success story.
August saw a number of important milestones for Enniscorthy Municipal District projects. A sod-turning event for Phase 2 of the Ennis corthy Sports Hub (athletics track) took place on the 8th August, and the new Murphy-Flood’s car-park, which can cater for 37 cars, is now open. Both projects are covered in this issue.
Earlier this evening (2nd Septemer) the new Community Activity Garden at St. John’s Community Hospital was officially opened. It is a wonderful new amenity, open to the general public, including an outdoor amphitheatre. We’ll have the full story and photos in next month’s issue.
This month Enniscorthy will host the now-annual Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival – four great days of music, comedy, writing, art, film, history, etc – something for everybody. Check out: ‘Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival’ on Facebook.
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 online format. Tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has 13,500 Followers. And, of course, if you like our format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you – Frank Corcoran
☀ Horse and pony trekking ☀ Coffee dock & chipper ☀ Live music
☀ Any cyclists passing our way call in for a cup of coffee.
☀ Loads of things to do in the area: Kayaking in Fethard-on-Sea, relaxing walks in Tintern Abbey, great food in our local pubs.
To book, call or whatsapp Margaret on 087 271 8803. For rent, choose between:
☀ Self-catering cottages
☀ Pod ☀ Caravan – sleeps 2 adults and 2 children.
Music every weekend this month.
13th September: Fresh from their Fleadh triumph – The Wrafters ➤
SLANEY NEWS
Barbara-Anne Murphy COUNCILLOR
Enniscorthy Technology
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 - Your Ultimate Garden Destination
�� Hello September! �� The Autumn months have arrived and so have our spring bulbs! It’s always an exciting time to get the garden ready for next season. But don’t worry, we’ve still got plenty of options to bring vibrant autumn colour into your garden right now. (Check out our latest blog for inspiration!)
In the restaurant, we’re embracing the cosy season with homemade soups, fresh-baked bread, and chutneys!
The perfect treat after a stroll through the garden centre.
Have you heard about our newsletter? Sign up via our socials to stay up to date with all our latest arrivals, gardening tips, and special offers Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday 9am – 5pm, Closed Sundays.
So, if you’re planning ahead for spring, adding warmth to your garden this autumn, or simply looking for a comforting meal, make Kilcannon part of your September routine.
Tim and Fiona Phelan invite you to visit their stylish cafe at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy.
The Ballymaloe-trained couple are making full use of a new, top-of-the-range kitchen to offer exceptional food produced in-house as well as supporting local artisan suppliers.
The cafe serves mouth-watering breakfast and lunch menus Mon-Fri 9am to 4.30pm, with daily specials, and brunch on Saturdays 10am to 3pm. Closed on Sundays.
We pride ourselves on using the freshest local ingredients from Wexford’s leading food producers – from farm to fork!
Zumba with Leona
083 093 1406
Only €10 per class
Licenced & Registered Zumba Instructor
• Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy- Mondays @ 10am
• IFA Centre Enniscorthy- Tuesdays @7pm Catch us on Facebook, Instagram & Zumba.com
Greyhound racing every
Monday and Thursday in Enniscorthy
Greyhound Racing in Enniscorthy is now on every Monday and Thursday.
Enjoy the fun and the craic at Enniscorthy Track.
Group rates available.
Cafe, bar, shop, hot food available, outdoor and indoor seating.
Contact the office for more details: 053 923 3172 / Tel: 087 4893859.
Follow on social media for updates. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthygreyhound.track
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1st Floor, 10 Templeshannon Quay, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, Y21 A8X5
Culture Night event at Bunclody Library
Discovering Local Heritage with Barry Lacey 4pm–5pm, 19th September 2025, no booking required.
Join local historian Barry Lacey at Bunclody Library for a fascinating talk on discovering and recording local heritage. Barry will discuss how people and community groups can effectively discover and record their own research.
Transform your Food or Tourism business with a
€5k-€150k grants available for niche start-ups and established businesses
Up to 60% grants for facilities and equipment upgrades, marketing, feasibility studies and carbon reduction measures
Priority given to eco-friendly, innovative businesses that create and sustain local jobs
Join 122 Wexford businesses funded by LEADER since 2016. To discuss eligibility and how to apply, email: leader@wld.ie
Enniscorthy snippets...
VINEGAR HILL
New seating has been installed. Design and content work on new Heritage Interpretive panels is under way. Parking and access improvements to Vinegar Hill are being investigated by Wexford Co. Council (WCC). €40,000 in government grant funding was awarded some weeks ago to Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) for signage and pathway improvements. The Enniscortrhy East Community Development Association believes it has identified a site that could be used to allow access to the Hill for buses etc, and could potentially house a new welcome centre/coffee shop/toilets, etc and have been in touch with EMD officials about it.
ST JOHN’S COMMUNITY WELLBEING & ACTIVITY
GARDEN
Work commenced on site in September 2024 and is now complete. The project will be officially opened today, 2nd September. Full report in next month’s issue.
ENNISCORTHY
TOWN CENTRE REGENERATION PROJECT
The Part 8 process for the Market Square project was concluded on 9th September 2024, with the Council approving the scheme with amendments to address matters raised during the public consultation process.
Design work on the Enniscorthy Castle Quarter project is ongoing including a permanent exhibition area to allow the display of artefacts donated by local families to the old museum at the Castle, and the installation of public toilet facilities. The purchase of the old Castle Ballroom is complete and archaeological, ground investigation and ecological surveys are expected to commence shortly. WCC is collaborating with the Dept of Housing, Local Government and Heritage around the Ministerial Consent process (as the Castle site is a national monument).
Regarding the Templeshannon element of the TCFP, Wexford Co. Council has prepared a concept mainly for the swimming pool site and presented it at the April Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) meeting.
The above projects can only proceed if WCC is successful is securing government URDF funding.
ENNISCORTHY CCTV
A total of 22 CCTV cameras will be installed at different locations within Enniscorthy Town which have been agreed with An Garda Siochana. The scheme is expected to act as a deterrent to crime and anti-social behaviour, improve public safety, assist emergency services when investigating incidents, and assist the Local Authority in the management of public areas for the wellbeing of the town. The CCTV system should be fully operational by mid October.
The Bunclody CCTV Scheme is still awaiting Section 38 Approval from the Gardaí.
ENNISCORTHY SPORTS HUB
A works contractor – Kevin Thorpe Ltd – for the second phase (sports equipment storage area, changing rooms, toilets, showers, and a small office) of the Sports Hub has been appointed. A sod-turning event took place on 8th August. The project should take 9-12 months to complete.
ENNISCORTHY NORTH BUSINESS DISTRICT (Old Dublin Road)
Some works have been carried out in recent years on the Enniscorthy North Business District (Old Dublin Road) where over 2,000 people currently work. An application for further funding was submitted to the National Transport Authority for the active travel elements of the masterplan for the area but no funding was forthcoming for 2023 or 2024. A further application for funding is being made for 2025.
MURPHY FLOODS SITE
This newly opened carpark will add 37 carparking spaces for the town. The carpark includes pedestrian linkages to both the Main Street via a set of concrete steps and a pathway/ramp to the Dunnes Stores side. Additional public lighting has been installed. Development of the site has opened up the centre of the town and will provide important linkages between Main St, Irish St, Barrack St and Island Road.
A valuation on the site has recently been received in the order of €280,000. It is recommended by WCC that the site be placed on the market subject to a development clause. The valuation stated that the
current viability of the site would be challenging from a development perspective due to development costs.
ENNISCORTHY FLOOD RELIEF SCHEME
The Scheme is now proceeing on a phased basis.
Phase 1 – Bridgeworks. This phase of the project will include the construction of the new River Slaney Bridge, the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge, and the construction of a new pedestrian bridge in the town centre. Public consultation took place in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on Tuesday 13th May. The estimated timeline to planning submission is Q1 2026.
Phase 2 – Flood Relief Works. This phase of the scheme will include the construction of the remaining flood relief measures for Enniscorthy town. There is no timescale available yet for this phase. An engineering consultant will be appointed in the third quarter of 2025 to help advance Phase 2.
The Scheme has a total approved budget of €51m approx. On completion, the scheme is expected to protect 326 properties – 159 homes and 167 businesses.
BUNCLODY PARK
A Stage 2 Natura Impact Statement, plans and particulars were submitted to An Bord Pleanala under Section 177AE. The application was approved with conditions. WCC Property Section is in discussion with local landowners.
PAIRC NA GABHAR BUNCLODY
A Public Consultation event took place in April in St. Aidan’s Hall Bunclody. All comments were taken on board. The Part 8 Planning was lodged on the 28th April 2025. Applications have been submitted for funding to the Community Recognition Fund Scheme and the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. If the funding applications are successful, the project will be progressed further.
RAFTER STREET PEDESTRIANISATION
New recessed bollard mounts and bollards have been installed with a facility for the Emergency Services to have access. EMD is now strictly enforcing the pedestrianisation. New signage has been erected stating current byelaw times – between 10.00am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. The possibility of extending the pedestrianisation hours to cover Saturdays and Sundays will be looked at.
ALL-WEATHER ASTRO PITCH, ROSS ROAD
The official opening took place on 24th February 2025. To contact the facility, email: wexfordfootballalliance@gmail.com.
ENNISCORTHY TRAILS
Works are ongoing on design and planning to extend the trail network to link to the Ringwood and Borodale trails.
PUBLIC PAYPHONE UPGRADE
A new upgraded payphone and a public information interactive touch screen has been installed on Rafter Street. Broadband/Wi-Fi will be installed. The digital screen can be used to promote upcoming events in Enniscorthy Municipal District and across the county.
PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
In welcome news, two new pedestrian crossings will be put in place at the top of Wafer Street, Enniscorthy, with work likely to start over the coming weeks.
ENNISCORTHY TECHNOLOGY PARK PHASE 2
The Technical Consultancy Services Contract has been awarded for Stage (i) to (v) design services. Site investigations are complete, and design work is ongoing. It is anticipated the tender for construction works will be published in Q3 2025.
ENNISCORTHY TECHNOLOGY PARK – IDA ADVANCE FACTORY
The Technical Consultancy Services Contract has been awarded for an architect-led design team to prepare a planning application for a proposed advance factory building in Enniscorthy Technology Park. Site investigations are complete, and design work is ongoing. It is anticipated the planning application will be lodged in Q3 2025. ■
Simply the Best coming to Enniscorthy on 6th September
Band is an exhilarating tribute act that pays homage to the one and only Tina Turner. With a high-energy performance, sensational vocals, and authentic recreations of Tina's signature moves, this event promises to be an electrifying experience that captures the essence of Tina herself. What to Expect:
★ An explosive live performance featuring Tina Turner's greatest hits, including ‘Proud Mary’, ‘Nutbush City Limits’, ‘What's Love Got to Do with It’, and more.
★ Authentic costumes, choreography, and stage presence that will make you feel like you're witnessing Tina Turner herself in her prime.
★ A night of entertainment that will have you dancing, singing, and reminiscing about Tina's timeless classics.
★ A celebration of Tina Turner's music for fans of all ages.
Proud Mary and Her City Limits Band is led by the talented Amanda Lane, whose powerful vocals and striking resemblance to Tina Turner will leave you in awe. Backed by a dynamic band and talented backup dancers, this tribute act will bring Tina's music to life with an energy and passion that mirrors the real Queen of Rock 'n' Roll.
Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of Tina Turner's music live on stage, Saturday 6th September 2025, in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy. ■
An Invitation to...
by Seamus Whitney and Mary Hickey
Are you a student or a parent of a student soon to be making decisions regarding College, Career and CAO options? If so, this is for you: Seamus Whitney and Mary Hickey would like to invite you to the launch of their recently published book ‘The College & Career Companion: Navigating the CAO System in Ireland'.
Join us for an evening of informative discussions featuring our two guest speakers: Nettie Bowie, Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist with NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre, Enniscorthy, and Niall Reck of Graphedia Superlative Website Design, Wexford and Kildare.
There will be ample opportunity for Questions and Answers on the night and there will be a team of experienced advisors to help you with your queries. Copies of The College & Career Companion will of course be available to purchase on the night also.
The Launch date and time is Friday, 12th September, at 7pm. The Location is The Presentation Centre, Convent Road, Enniscorthy, Y21 X889. Refreshments served at 7pm with the official launch and discussion starting at 7.30pm.
This is a Free Event but those wishing to attend must RSVP prior to Monday 8th September to book your place. Students, Parents and Teachers are welcome to attend.
RSVP to Mary by Message or WhatsApp at 087 6759055.
Bunclody Further Education And Training Centre
September 2025
Join a course at Bunclody FETC FREE AND PART- TIME COURSES
Level 5 Outdoor Sport and Recreation (full-time or part-time) September 2025 – June 2026, 41 weeks Course code: 394570
The aim of this programme is to enable the learner to develop the knowledge, skills and competence in a range of outdoor sport and recreation activities, to work under supervision in a variety of outdoor recreation contexts and/or to progress to further and/or higher education and training.
Learn in a small group, in a welcoming space. Upcoming courses for you:
Reading, Writing, Spelling or Maths Small group class, or one to one
General Learning Major Award
QQI Level 1 or QQI Level 2 2 - 6 hours per week
Digital Literacy Skills for Life Beginners 1/Beginners 2 2 hour per week, 12 weeks
From September 1st 2025
Using Technology and Computer Skills
QQI Level 2
Mondays 9.30am - 12.30pm
20 weeks
From September 1st 2025
Contact - Anne 086 7815062
Bunclody Sewing Course Beginners sewing Wednesdays, 1.30am – 4.30pm September 2025 to May 2026
Bunclody Traveller Women’s Group Fridays, 6.30pm – 9.30pm
September 2025 to May 2026
Contact - Yvonne O Connor Yvonneoconnor@wwetb.ie
Tel: 086 1525776
In addition
For more information please contact: Contact: coordinator.wexford@womenscollecive.ie Tel: 087 433 3440 PART-TIME PROGRAMMES
Level 6 Special Needs Assisting Fridays 9.30-2.30 •Aug- Dec 2025 Code 483054
Level 4 Short Order
Food Literacy & Culinary Skills
Learn about food, learn through food!
Culinary Skills Special Award
QQI Level 3
Wednesdays and Thursdays 9.30am - 1.30pm
From August 27th 2025 to June 25th 2026
Food Choice and Health
QQI Level 2
Tuesday 9.30am - 12pm
20 Weeks
From August 28th 2025
Food Literacy - Cookery Connects
Tuesdays 2-4pm
10 Weeks
From January 5th 2026
To apply, contact Anne 086 7815062
Niamh
Sod turned on Phase 2 of Enniscorthy Sports Hub
L-R: Cllr Pat Kehoe, Kevin Thorpe (contractor), Senator Cathal Byrne, Cllr Jackser Owens, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District), Cllr Joe Sullivan (Cathaoirleach, Wexford County Council), Tanaiste Simon Harris TD, Minister Patrick Donovan TD, Minister James Browne TD, Cllr Patricia Byrne, Cllr John O’Rourke, Cllr Aidan Browne.
Tánaiste Simon Harris, Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister for Culture, Communications & Sport, and James Browne TD, Minister for Housing, Heritage and Local Government, were in attendance on 8th August to turn the first sod on phase 2 of the Enniscorthy Sports Hub which has received €450,000 in state funding under the Large-Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). Phase 2 will cost €600,000 in total, with Wexford Co. Council providing €150,000 of that sum.
The LSSIF-backed project will see the upgrade of the existing IAAF athletics facility of the Enniscorthy Hub to include the provision of a sports amenity building containing a multipurpose area, two dressing rooms, public toilet facilities and kitchenette, as well as construction of a throwing cage for discus and hammer. It will also serve as an educational hub for coaches, athletes and teachers.
The original Phase 1 consisted of a €1 million state-of-the-art, 400-metre, 8-lane, all-weather running track to IAAF stan-
dards as well as in-field facilities, floodlights, car parking etc.
Tánaiste Simon Harris TD welcomed the opportunity to turn the first sod on Phase 2 and commented: “I want to commend the entire community and all project partners on reaching this important milestone. I have no doubt this facility will be a valued resource for many years to come, promoting health and fitness for people of all ages and abilities.
“Today we lay the foundation for a space where ambition will be nurtured. The recent successes at the European Athletics U23 Championships and World University Games remind us what’s possible when talent is supported. This hub will help ensure athletes have the opportunity to thrive and stands as proof that our investment in sport is supporting growth and participation.”
Minister James Browne said: “The Enniscorthy Sports Hub project is an exciting development for Wexford and will offer an opportunity for local athletes, clubs and schools to excel in their chosen sports.
This new facility will also make Wexford a destination for all sorts of sporting events. I’m proud to be here as we mark the beginning of a new chapter for sport in Wexford.”
Minister Patrick O’Donovan said: “I’m delighted to be in Enniscorthy today to mark the beginning of this exciting new chapter for sport in County Wexford. The Enniscorthy Sports Hub project will be a key regional facility for Wexford, supporting local clubs, schools, aspiring athletes, while also attracting events and visitors to the area.
“With Irish athletes making headlines on the international stage, there has never been a better time to inspire more people to use facilities such as these. Through the LSSIF, we are delivering real results for communities across the country. I want to commend everyone who is involved in bringing this project to life.” ■
Above
Sod turned on Phase 2 of
James
Cllr John O’Rourke, Cllr Joe Sullivan (Cathaoirleach, Wexford County Council), Tanaiste Simon Harris TD, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District), Senator Cathal Byrne, Minister Patrick Donovan TD, Cllr Patricia Byrne, Cllr Pat Kehoe, Cllr Aidan Browne.
Right: Some of the team behind delivering the project, L-R: Cathal O’Leary (architect), David Whitty (Wexford Co. Council), Kevin Thorpe (contractor), Daniel Thorpe (contractor), Claire Lawless (Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager), Neville Shaw (Wexford Co. Council).
Left: Cian Ó Lionáin (Asst Secretary General, Dept of Communications, Culture and Sport), Minister James Browne TD, Carolyne Godkin (Director of Services, Wexford Co. Council).
Right: Paul Murphy (Slaney Olympic), Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District), Fran Ronan (Sports Active Wexford), Jackie Carroll (Director of Services Wexford Co. Council), Enda Waters (Slaney Olympic)
Above L-R: Minister
Browne TD, Cllr Jackser Owens,
Above left: Jessie O’Connor (Slaney Olympic), Jack Browne (Enniscorthy Athletic Club), Tanaiste Simon Harris TD, Enda Waters (Slaney Olympic), Senator Cathal Byrne, Paul Murphy (Slaney Olympic), Anne Gilshinan (Masters World Champion), Minister Patrick Donovan TD.
Enniscorthy Sports Hub
Above L-R: Journalist and broadcaster Dan Walsh, Lisa Moore (Wexford Co. Council), Ailbhe Tierney (Enniscorthy Municipal District), Barbara Nolan (Enniscorthy Municipal District).
Slaney News provides impetus for 50-year reunion
Then and Now
In the July 2025 issue of Slaney News we reproduced an old photo from the 1970s of a number of young basketball players from Enniscorthy.
That photo (above left) was taken in the old Presentation School – one of the few places where a basketball match could be played. We believe the players
were representing their youth club – St. Catherine’s – in a tournament.
In the back row of that old photo were L-R: Patricia McGannon, Agatha Lawless, Elaine Murphy, and Catherine Doran. As a result of seeing the photo from about 50 years ago, a reunion was organised and four of the players met up recently and by
all accounts had a super time. It’s great to see them all looking hale and hearty all these years later.
Above L-R: Agatha Lawless, Catherine Doran, Patricia McGannon, and Ann Walsh who was not in the old photo but was very much part of the team at the time. ■
Brí coffee house ready to open
After four exciting years at the helm of Ecokind – Enniscorthy’s dedicated ecofriendly shop – proprietor Aideen Vonno is taking a step back from that business.
Aideen says, “It has been amazing to serve and get to know all our customers and we thank you for all your support over this time.”
From the 3rd of September at 7am, the shop will be open under a new name – Brí coffee house and the new proprietors are Declan Doyle and Gavin Griffin, helped by Ecokind staff Niamh and Michelle. The new business will concentrate on great coffee, treats, poké bowls, açai bowls, and lots of other tasty bites.
We wish them every success with this new business: Brí Coffee House, 1 Duffry Hill, Enniscorthy. Follow ‘Brí Coffee House’ on Facebook.
Tackling Enniscorthy’s dereliction
IT’S GREAT TO SEE WEXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL TAKING A PROACTIVE APPROACH IN RELATION TO DERELICT BUILDINGS. A NUMBER OF NOTICES HAVE BEEN PLACED BY THE COUNCIL, INCLUDING ONE IN TEMPLESHANNON ON 'THE OLD HOUSE' PUB, AS THE FIRST STEP IN THE PROCESS OF COMPULSORILY ACQUIRING THEM.
Have you an old mattress to recycle?
If successful in acquiring these buildings, we would expect the Council to spend some money on them to make them safe and more attractive, and then put them on the open market.
A big shout-out to Brennan's of Enniscorthy in the building next door to The Old House who, in addition to keeping an attractive shopfront themselves, have painted and maintained the outside of The Old House, at their own expense, to help improve the overall appearance of the Templeshannon area. ■
Wexford County Council will accept mattresses for recycling from households (not businesses) at the four Household Recycling Centres outlined in the accompanying graphic, on the specified dates.
The opening hours of the Recycling Centres are: 08:15 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:00, Tuesday to Friday.
Entry Fee is €2 per vehicle payable by cash or card, with a limit of three mattresses per vehicle, and only one entry per vehicle. Mattresses should be clean and dry.
For further information, please contact the Environment Section of Wexford County Council on 053-9196 000 or customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie ■
Over 800,000 attend this year’s Fleadh
As the sun set on the final night of Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025, the echoes of harps, whistles and concertinas could still be heard on the night breeze and the chants of over 800,000 visitors were still audible in the distance. After eight sunny days of singing, dancing, craic agus ceoil, the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 officially came to an end.
In a spectacular finale event on the Gig Rig, Chairman of Wexford County Council Cllr Joe Sullivan officially handed over the baton to Lord Mayor of Belfast Cllr Tracey Kelly. The baton in this instance is a hand-crafted harp, carved from 4,000year-old bog oak. This will form the perpetual tribute to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.
Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr Joe Sullivan said, “Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 has been a memorable event for the people of Wexford. The music, the dancing, the atmosphere – it will live on in our memories for years to come. We will look back on the Fleadhanna Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 and 2025 as iconic events in the history of our town, bringing joy to so many.”
Mayor of Wexford Cllr Gary Laffan commented, “The Fleadh Cheoil has been a great success for the people of Wexford. From the comments we are hearing, it is widely regarded as the most successful Fleadh ever and we are very proud of that. The people of Wexford have embraced the Fleadh, the culture, the music and the Irish language and I hope we will
see this legacy thrive in Wexford for years to come.”
Chief Executive of Wexford County Council Eddie Taaffe said, “We estimate that at least 800,000 people attended Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025. These figures are derived in conjunction with An Garda Síochána and numbers using the car parks and public transport in the town. There was a palpable buzz all week, and the event as a whole far exceeded our expectations based on 2024. We are delighted to have delivered a safe and enjoyable event for so many. I would like to thank the many agencies we worked with, who all helped to make the Fleadh happen – the gardai, the health service, the voluntary services,
na
council teams, security and event control personnel and so many more. We simply couldn’t have made the fleadh the event it was, without them.”
Dr Labhras Ó Murchú, Ardstiúrthóir of Comhaltas, said, “The number of 800,000 fleadh fans at this year's fleadh is indicative of the unparalleled resurgence in Irish traditional culture. It is truly a people’s fleadh, rooted in local communities and now extended to twenty-two countries worldwide. The fleadh in Wexford this year sets the tone for what we predict, when we go to Belfast, will be one of the greatest examples ever of reconciliation, all of us together without exception, celebrating the same culture.” ■
Uachtarán
hÉireann Michael D. Higgins addrsses the crowd on the opening day of Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025. Pic: Mary Browne.
Pic: Mary Browne.
Mary bids farewell after 38 years
On Friday, July 18th, there was a celebratory gathering in Kilcannon Restaurant to mark the retirement of someone very special, Mary Murphy, who had worked in admin/accounts for Kilcannon Garden Centre & Restaurant for an incredible 38 years.
It was a day filled with warmth, laughter, and heartfelt appreciation. Family, friends, current and former staff, funders, and community members came together to celebrate Mary’s remarkable journey.
Over nearly four decades, Mary worked with eight different bosses and countless colleagues. Through it all, she remained the dedicated, steady, and ever-willing-to-help presence that made her such a vital part of Kilcannon. Her sunny personality, quick wit, and genuine kindness made every day brighter for those lucky enough to work alongside her.
The celebration began with a special gathering where guests were welcomed with tea, refreshments, and many fond memories. Trevor Jacob, CEO, led the proceedings with a heartfelt speech. He warmly welcomed everyone, including Paul Redmond from the Department of Social Protection, past staff members, and loyal friends of Kilcannon.
Trevor took the opportunity to give a delightful glimpse into Mary’s other job. Every year, without fail, Mary would vanish just in time for the harvest. Joining the family business and proving, once again, that she is truly a woman of many talents.
Mary’s passion wasn’t limited to numbers and admin. She always showed a deep compassion for those who needed support, never forgetting the heart of what Reach Ability stands for.
As the day continued, JR Stafford presented Mary with some thoughtful gifts on behalf of everyone who has worked with her. It was a simple but powerful
gesture to honour someone who gave so much of herself to the people and mission of Reach Ability.
JR said, "Happy Retirement Mary, you were more than just a colleague, you were the heart of the team. Your laughter, your loyalty, and your unwavering kindness will be missed more than words can say. While we’re sure your family will now get the very best of you full-time, we at Kilcannon will always remember you as a treasure. From all of us, Happy Retirement, Mary. Enjoy every single second, you’ve earned it."
Text and photos courtesy of Reach Ability. ■
We are looking for more men!
Voices of Harmony, the new men’s singing group in Enniscorthy, is currently looking for new members. With Autumn approaching it’s a great time to start a new pastime. If you like to sing why not go along and join in on Monday 8th September. NO AUDITIONS REQUIRED, JUST SHOW UP AND SING ALONG WITH THE GROUP. New members are always welcome! For more information, call Seamus on 087 2930510. ■
Positive news from Bunclody
Bunclody Placemaking Project Seeks Local Opinion
Celebrating the local built environment and architecture that is unique to Bunclody, Wexford County Council through the Creative Ireland programme has invested in a placemaking project that aims to generate community-centred ideas, influencing the look and feel of Bunclody’s planned future.
Award-winning architects Studio Myco have been appointed as consultants for the project, and recently hosted a popup stall in the village on 18th August from 2.00-5.00pm. They also ran a community drop-in event at St. Aidan’s Hall that evening from 6.00-8.00pm. An online survey was available for completion up to the 1st September.
The shared vision for the future of the town, which will guide future investment and development, is now eagerly awaited. ■
Culture Night
Join local historian Barry Lacey at Bunclody Library on Friday 19th September, 4-5pm, for a fascinating talk on discovering and recording local heritage. Barry will discuss how people and community groups can effectively discover and record their own research. No need to book all welcome.
Check out all Bunclody Library events in September: https://359856.eu2.cleverreach.com/m/16448018 ■
Redevelopment of Bunclody Park
A wonderful milestone was reached at the end of July with the signing of contracts between Carlow Co. Council and Garden Escapes, a leading contractor in the area of playgrounds and outdoor spaces, for the redevelopment of Bunclody Community Park.
The new look park at Carrigduff will include the upgrade of the existing play-
ground, the creation of a sensory garden and community park, a mini learn to cycle track / walking track. The park will be suitable for all ages and abilities and is expected to cost €500,000.
Bunclody Recreational Committee have worked tirelessly over past four years to help bring this fantastic project to fruition.
of
for
At the signing
contracts
the redevelopment of Bunclody Community Park. Front L-R: Margo Halpin, Secretary of Bunclody Recreational Committee; Natasha Fitzgerald, Chairperson of Bunclody Recreational Committee; Richard Stuart of Garden Escapes; Sara Halpin, Treasurer of Bunclody Recreational Committee. Back L-R: Niall Kinsella, Senior Executive Engineer, Carlow County Council; Nicola Lawler, Senior Executive Officer, Carlow County Council; Minister Jennifer Murnane O'Connor; Cllr Charlie Murphy.
■
Hosepipe ban still in place
After a particularly dry summer, Uisce Éireann is reminding customers in Wexford that a Water Conservation Order –commonly known as a hosepipe ban – is still in place in County Wexford until 16 September 2025.
The restrictions include the use of garden hoses and other non-essential water uses. Using a hosepipe for just one hour can use as much water as a family typically consumes in an entire day.
The Order was put in place following a long period of dry weather combined with high demand, placing severe pressure on water supplies across the county. Uisce Éireann considered it essential that a Water Conservation Order was introduced to reduce the potential of restrictions and outages over the coming weeks and months.
Met Éireann’s data tells us that rainfall in Wexford during May, June, and July has been significantly below average when compared to long-term rainfall records. A total of 158.9 mm of rainfall was measured by Met Éireann at their Johnstown Castle weather station during this period, compared to an average of 219.6mm for the same months in previous years – over 27% less rainfall recorded locally.
Uisce Éireann says, “While it may often feel like Ireland receives plenty of rain, the data shows the past 12 months have been unseasonably warm and dry. As a result, water sources across Wexford have not had their usual seasonal recharge.
“There are many simple but effective ways to save water – from taking shorter showers to reusing household water in the garden. The key message is: leave the hose and pressure washer in the shed.” ■
Help is always welcome!
Would you like to be part of a friendly team that has succeeded in transforming Enniscorthy into gold medal winners in the national Tidy Towns competition in the space of just a few short years?
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns is always looking for more help. And we are not just about litter picking and planting flowers, we are also involved in a huge range of activities in the biodiversity and sustainability fields, and help is needed in those areas as well as in planning and promoting events, advocacy, fundraising, working with other like-minded organisations, etc. And fun is always on our agenda too, with various social events during the year including kayaking, table quizzes, etc.
If you can spare a couple of hours a month to lend a hand in whatever area of Tidy Towns interests you, we would be thrilled to hear from you. Just fill in your contact details clearly below and one of our friendly team will get in touch (and we promise not to be pushy!!!)
Full name: .......................................................................................................
When filled in, just drop this leaflet into the Enniscorthy Municipal District Office in Market Square, Enniscorthy, or take a photo of it and email to: enniscorthytt@gmail.com or post it to Slaney News, Clonhaston, Enniscorthy. Thank you.
Some of those who helped make a huge success of ‘10 Little Plays’ in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, last month. L-R: Mary Kelly, Emma Moulds, and Sarah Kelly.
A monthly update from GreenTechHQ
We’re delighted to share an exciting lineup of upcoming events at, or hosted by, GreenTechHQ in Enniscorthy –Ireland’s Business, Sustainability & Innovation Centre of Excellence.
Southeast Sustainability Cluster on Thursday, 4th September, from 6pm at GreenTechHQ.
‘AI Unlocked: Powering Innovation, Security & Scale’ event on Wednesday, 17 September, at GreenTechHQ.
Solar Ireland 2025 Hackathon – Powered by GreenTechHQ and SETU on Thursday 2 October in Dublin.
We always have something inspiring on the horizon for innovators, entrepreneurs and sustainability champions alike. Our events page (e (https://www.greentechhq.com/event-l) has full details, and how to RSVP.
SOUTHEAST SUSTAINABILITY CLUSTER
Delighted to share that the first of our post-summer clusters is on Thursday, 4th September, 6pm, in GreenTechHQ. Speaking will be Tim Greenwood of Alpha Marine, Richard Hickey representing the Southeast Offshore Partnership, Darran Murphy of Conron Commercial, and Kieran Larkin of Pinergy. (Conran Furniture have embarked on a journey of sustainability and have some very impressive results from the installation of their solar panels).
AI UNLOCKED: POWERING INNOVATION, SECURITY AND SCALE
This GreenTechHQ (FREE) summit will highlight AI’s role across food, cybersecurity, legal, and digital innovation sectors, while also providing hands-on workshops and opportunities for meaningful collaboration.
For food producers and food manufacturers, join the AI in food workshop with Gearoid Kearney and Laura Plunkett (limited number to 20 seats).
To hear about AI in business from revenue to governance to security and reality, join the Dr. Barry Scannell, Jamie Heaslip, Kammil Mahajan, and Terry Madigan panel from 10.45am to 1pm (open seating).
We are delighted to have the Skillnet Innovation Exchange’s Sean McGrath present on how they can connect SME solution providers to tender for the challenges facing corporate companies.
Enjoy a networking lunch from 1pm to 2.30pm.
Choose between two afternoon workshops on AI cyber security essential for business SME and corporates with Kammil and Virtual Reality workshop with Terry in the afternoon from 2.30pm to 4pm.
Date: 2nd October 2025. Location: RDS Dublin (as part of the Solar Ireland 2025 Conference). Hosted by: Solar Ireland & GreenTechHQ (in partnership with SETU, AIB-TBC). ■
SOLAR IRELAND 2025 HACKATHON –POWERED BY GREENTECHHQ
A monthly update from GreenTechHQ
GreenTechHQ Officially Launches The Food Studio to Champion Southeast Food Innovation
GreenTechHQ, Ireland’s first Sustainability Innovation Hub, celebrated the official opening of The Food Studio at its Enniscorthy Technology Park headquarters on 28th August. The launch was marked by the attendance of the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke TD, alongside local food producers, industry leaders, and partners.
The Food Studio has been established as a collaborative space for food entrepreneurs, producers, and innovators across the Southeast, with the aim of supporting sustainable food production, promoting Southeast regional excellence, and fostering opportunities for innovation, food marketing, testing, and collaboration.
Speaking at the launch, Minister Peter Burke TD said: “The Food Studio at GreenTechHQ represents exactly the kind of forward-thinking, industry-led innovation we need to see across Ireland. It will not only showcase the fantastic food heritage of the Southeast, but also provide the tools, mentorship, and collaborative environment to help producers and entrepreneurs grow sustainably. This is a model of regional development that creates real opportunity for local businesses and communities.”
GreenTechHQ founder Ed Murphy high-
lighted the long-term vision for the initiative: “We created The Food Studio to be much more than a showcase – it’s a hub where food entrepreneurs can come together, access expertise, and collaborate with industry and support agencies. Thanks to the support of partners such as Enterprise Ireland, Skillnet Ireland, AIB, and SETU, this facility is set to become a catalyst for innovation, sustainability, and job creation in the Southeast food sector. Our mission is to ensure that businesses here not only survive, but prosper and grow – creating future-driven opportunities for the region.
The Food Studio at GreenTechHQ has been co-funded by a LEADER grant through Wexford Local Development
and will serve as a platform for promoting the region’s food producers while opening the door to innovation kitchens, testing labs, and export opportunities. It will also play a role in supporting education and mentoring for emerging food businesses.
The launch event featured tastings from local producers, including Reach Ability, Naturally Cordial, and Old Roots Vineyard, showcasing some of the best of Southeast food and drink.
With the support of GreenTechHQ’s established ecosystem, The Food Studio is poised to become a centre of excellence for food innovation and sustainability in Ireland’s Southeast. ■
GreenTechHQ’s ‘The Food Studio’, L-R: Ed Murphy (Founder), Minister Peter Burke TD, Julien Clemot (Dunbrody School of Cookery).
Above left: Brian Kehoe (Wexford Local Development), Julien Clemot (Dunbrody School of Cookery), Senator Cathal Byrne, Minister Peter Burke TD, Ed Murphy (Founder GreenTechHQ). Above right: Some of Co. Wexford’s finest food producers at the launch of The Food Studio.
First day at school –St Aidan’s, Enniscorthy 28th August 2025
Top right: Emil Zagewska.
Above left: Har Morris and Lukcis Pricope.
Above centre: Kyle Cooper and Lincoln O’Mahoney.
Above right: Ava Grace- Green.
Left: Szymon Kelig and Amelia Connelly.
Right: Oscar O’Hagan.
Below left: Amelia Donegan and Kate Murphy.
Below right: Grace Kennedy, Hannah Kehoe and Rhea Doyle.
Top left: Story time for Harry O’Connor.
First day at school –St Senan’s, Enniscorthy
28th August 2025
Top left: Kyria Giltrap. Top right: Wilby Moran. Above left: Karen, Giva Marie and Pat Murphy. Above centre: Twins Lune and Dune-Rose Kirwan. Above right: Karen Higgins, Olivia and Richard Warren. Below left: All smiles on their first day were Vikram Venkataraman, Poppy Vikram, Zoe Vikram and Karouna Mitova. Below centre: Esmae, Rachel and Rhyley Murphy. Below right: Mario Plesca had his big friend Brian Lovan to drop him off at school.
TALK FROM HEROES TO ZEROS?
All the way back to biblical times, the Jewish people have had a history of great suffering and discrimination. In 1917 the Balfour Declaration helped create the state of Israel. This was promoted as a safe haven for Jews who needed refuge from persecution all across the world. The only caveat was that they had to live and work with their neighbours. Palestinian neighbours in particular.
For the bones of 80 years the relationship has been peppered with war and conflict. In the late 1990s President Bill Clinton brokered a peace deal followed up with the 2000 Camp David meeting with Israel and the P.L.O. to further the idea of a two-state agreement that would be acceptable to both sides. This was not progressed and caused a vacuum resulting in where we are today.
I personally believe that the vile and horrific attack on Israel on 7th October 2023 was perpetrated with the blessing of Iran. I also feel that Iran was carrying out the bidding of Russia to create a second war. This was to take the focus and resources of the western world off the war in Ukraine. The actions taken since by the Israeli government changed people’s reaction from sympathy and disgust to anger towards the manner of the retaliation.
The first thing to point out is without the backing of the far right wing of the American Republican Party this genocide and famine would not be happening. Any critics of their actions are accused by the Israeli administration as antiSemitic. Not only is this claim nonsense but it also devalues such an important word. This word was introduced way back in 1879 to deter hostility or prejudice against Jewish people based on their religion or ethnicity. In 2016 the Inter-
TOWN
WITH KEITH DOYLE
national Holocaust Remembrance Alliance defined it as a certain perception of Jews which may be expressed as hatred towards Jews. Any dilution of this word and the protections it brings to people is a grave error and may be regretted for many years to come.
I understand how spin and shaping the narrative is all to the fore in global politics of today. However I do believe
that the people of Israel are slowly realising that they are being sold a pup. To suggest that they can eliminate Hamas is not only false but they know it to be false. Did England eliminate the IRA? Did the American military might eliminate ISIS? Did the Union eliminate the Confederate ideals? In all cases one creates a new generation of idealists to revenge their fallen.
It puzzles me to see a people who have suffered so much in their history and psyche deliver similar hurt and hunger on other peoples without any empathy. Benjamin Netanyahu and his far right backers will continue their dispersal of mass populations of woman and children leaving death and starvation in their wake while the world stays silent. Does this not ring a bell? History will record this, not as the protection of the Jewish state, but as a land grab and the dislodgement of peoples of another persuasion. This is being done by a government but there are signs of discontent coming from some citizens of Israel stating ‘not in my name’.
“Without
Many people believe that the Simon and Garfunkel song ‘The Sound of Silence’ became an unofficial anthem for the plight of the Jews. It is actually about the disconnection between individuals and how people fail to communicate. It reflects a sense of isolation and the struggle to be heard in a world full of silence. This can no longer be seen as an anthem for the Jewish struggle any more. I fear that the word ‘antisemitism’ which was once a deterrent and a protection for so many will be used as a badge of honour. This is a reflection not of a religion or an ethnicity but of the government that represents them. We cannot afford history repeating itself. ■
the backing of the far right wing of the American Republican Party this genocide and famine would not be happening.
A further €2m in LEADER grants available for niche tourism, food, and circular economy businesses
Wexford is alive with innovation, from our award-winning artisan food producers to our eco-friendly tourism experiences that attract thousands of visitors to our county each year.
LEADER funding has been instrumental in the growth and success of 122 of these Wexford businesses who received €6.25m in LEADER grants since 2016. Now, according to Tom Bermingham, Coordinator of LEADER with Wexford Local Development (WLD), there is a further €2 million in grant aid available for the enterprise and social enterprise sectors in Co Wexford between now and late 2027.
The 2023-2027 LEADER Programme is an EU funded grant scheme delivered in Wexford by WLD with the
support of Wexford County Council and the Local Community Development Committee. Grant aid of up to 60% of eligible costs is available for niche new and expanding businesses involved in tourism, food and/or the green economy.
Priority is given to projects that address climate change, demonstrate environmental sustainability, resource efficiency, job sustainability and job creation.
Tourism
WLD will prioritise projects that promote sustainable tourism and adopt eco-friendly practices. This includes alternative accommodation types that will attract more visitors, create new employment, boost the local economy, protect and enhance our environment and, at the same time, preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the county. If your idea will bring more visitors to Wexford and benefit the Wexford community, it could be eligible for support.
Food & Beverage
Niche, innovative food and beverage businesses continue to be supported with LEADER grant aid for equipment as well as branding and marketing costs.
The Green Economy
Whether it’s renewable energy, ecotourism, circular economy projects or biodiversity initiatives, there is support available for green innovations that benefit communities and the planet.
Don’t delay!
LEADER grants can turn ideas into thriving ventures that benefit the entire county, so this could be the opportunity you need to bring your ideas to life.
Applications are open now, but funding is limited, so avail of the opportunity while it’s there.
To discuss eligibility and get pre-application advice, contact:
LEADER Project Development Officer: Mercedes Hoad Moussa.
LEADER Coordinator: Tom Bermingham.
Prepare a project outline and budget –help is available from the LEADER team every step of the way.
For more information, visit www.wld.ie/leader ■
LEADER Coordinator Tom Bermingham
LEADER Project Development Officer Mercedes Hoad Moussa.
Defending human rights...
Founded in the 1990s, Amnesty International Wexford Group is one of eight Amnesty groups around Ireland contributing to that organisation’s tireless work in defending human rights all over the world. In the early years the Wexford Amnesty group tackled issues like the death penalty in the USA and Apartheid in South Africa, as well as campaigning for prisoners of conscience all over the world.
Today, the Wexford group is very active in opposing the ongoing genocide in Gaza, and holds a weekly protest in Redmond Square every Thursday at 6.30pm. All are welcome to attend and show solidarity with the people of Gaza.
This friendly and energetic group of local people also holds monthly meetings at 6.30pm on the second Wednesday of every month in the lobby/coffee dock in Whites of Wexford hotel. They raise local awareness about human rights, organise events and stalls and film nights, fundraise, and campaign by letter-writing and lobbying. They held their annual Picnic Against Apartheid in Redmond Park on 13th July.
Amnesty International's founder Peter Benenson once said, "Only when the last prisoner of conscience has been freed, when the last torture chamber has been closed, when the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a reality for the world’s people, will our work be done."
Amnesty International Wexford Group is always keen to have new people join the group so please message them through their Facebook or Instagram pages with any queries. ■
Amnesty International Wexford Group continues its weekly protest every Thursday at 6.30pm in Redmond Square, Wexford, against the ongoing Israeli-perpetrated genocide and mass starvation in Gaza.
The group is urging the people of Wexford to join them, to show support for the Palestinian people, and among other measures to insist the Irish government fulfil their commitment to enact the Occupied Territories Bill to include both goods AND services.
WEEKLY PROTEST IN WEXFORD AGAINST THE ONGOING GENOCIDE IN GAZA
It is with a heavy heart that Amnesty International Wexford Group continues its weekly protest every Thursday at 6.30pm in Redmond Square, Wexford, as Israeli bombs rain down on Palestinian families and famine conditions prevail. The group is urging the people of Wexford to join them, and to insist the Irish government fulfil their commitment to enact the Occupied Territories Bill. ■
Kiltealy’s safe route to school
A public information event for Wexford Co. Council’s proposed adjusted plans for ‘Safe Route to School’ took place on 14th August from 2-7pm in Kiltealy Hall to allow the people of Kiltealy see the plan and give their opinions. Pictured above: Cllr Pat Kehoe, Cllr John O’Rourke, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District), Tom Byrne and Eamonn Hore (Wexford County Council).
Cheque presentation in Clohamon
Clohamon Vintage & Heritage Club recently presented the Bunclody Day Care Centre with a cheque for €6,500 and Relay for Life Team Wexican Warriors with a cheque for €500, the proceeds of their recent successful vintage weekend.
Follow on Facebook: ‘Enniscorthy East Community Development’
The Enniscorthy Community Alliance launched its latest initiative:
‘The Shannon Way’ project – a dynamic community-led effort to rejuvenate Enniscorthy East through environmental and public space improvements – on 16th July 2025 at Armstrong’s Range, The Shannon. A large committee comprising interested Eastside residents meets once a month to progress the project. Expect to see lots more improvements in the area over the months ahead.
The Shannon Way project is being led by the Enniscorthy Community Alliance, with strong support from Enniscorthy East Community Development group, Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, Enniscorthy Municipal District, and Wexford Co. Council.
€40,000 in government grant funding was awarded last month to Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) for signage and pathway improvements for Vinegar Hill.
Enniscorthy Municipal District has recently widened a number of the lanes around Vinegar Hill. Pictured (right) is the lane behind the local Shamocks pitch. Well done to Eastside resident Sarah Kelly, who is very active in all the positive happenings on the Eastside, on being selected as the Enniscorthy Municipal District representative on the new County Wexford Community Safety Partnership. ■
Relevant Facebook Eastside pages: Enniscorthy East Community Development Association Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/EEastCommunity
Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TempleshannonCommunityandChildcareCentre ■
Hill-
7PM EVERY MONDAY NIGHT
Over-reliance on outsourcing healthcare
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow-Wexford Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin has described the HSE’s wasteful over-reliance on outsourced staff as unacceptable and completely unsustainable.
Teachta Ó Súilleabháin said: “It is completely unacceptable that HSE spending on outsourced staffing continues to spiral upwards. It is staggering that €13.3 million was spent on agency staff in Wexford General in 2024. This is a 269.06% increase since 2021.
“Across the state, over €725 million was spent on agency staffing in 2024 and the spend has not slowed in 2025. Since 2021, the HSE has forked out €2.9 billion on private agency staffing, which comes at a premium cost. It is incredible that the HSE could consider this wasteful spending to be sustainable.
Féin TD for Wicklow-Wexford
"Wasteful over-reliance on agency spending has long been an area identified as an area where real savings can be made. Yet, we are still seeing year-on-year increases, despite the government's health productivity and savings taskforce.
"This spike comes at the same time and, in my view, is directly related to the government’s arbitrary recruitment limits under the pay and numbers strategy. These staff are needed to provide essential services for people of Co. Wexford but they cannot be recruited directly, so the HSE is paying a premium price for agency workers instead.
"The health service needs an ambitious and realistic workforce plan to directly train, recruit, and retain the workers needed... and strict targets to significantly reduce runaway agency spending.
"That is what Sinn Féin proposed in our health plan, and it is what we will propose again in our alternative budget because the problems in the health service will never be addressed without a serious multi-annual plan that is fully thought through.
“Successive Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael governments have failed to produce any comprehensive plan to address this. Instead, they are limping year-to-year with pretend plans that lack any long-term vision.
“The productivity taskforce and the pay and number strategy are merely stickingplaster solutions that have not worked. As a result of these shortsighted ineffective measures, our health service has been left with no choice but to rely heavily on agency workers.” ■
Making a splash at Enniscorthy Castle
'THE WATERS OF WEXFORD' IS AN EXHIBITION AT ENNISCORTHY CASTLE CONTINUING THROUGHOUT SEPTEMBER, FEATURING SHIPWRECKS, PIRATES AND GODDESSES.
DISCOVER MARITIME AND RIVER-FARING ITEMS FROM THE WEXFORD CO. COUNCIL ARCHIVES. HEAR TALES OF RIVER GODS AND GHOST SHIPS. ALSO HIGHLIGHTED IS THE RICH HISTORY OF THE SLANEY COTMEN, THE PROUD SERVICE OF THE RNLI, SLANEY SEARCH & RESCUE, AND LOTS MORE. ■
Wexford General Hospital
Letter to the Editor...
Dear Editor,
This time of year can be challenging for people with asthma. While many of us are making the most of the milder weather, the warm and humid conditions, high pollen counts, and smoke from campfires and barbecues can all trigger symptoms.
It’s also Budget season—a time when the decisions Government makes will have a tangible impact on people’s health.
By the time Ministers Donohoe and Chambers take to the podium on 7 October to announce Budget 2026, we’ll be in the riskiest time of the year for people with asthma. As children return to school and viral infections spread, asthma flare-ups become even more common and emergency admissions spike.
The Asthma Society of Ireland is encouraging your readers to contact their local TDs now to make sure the needs of the 450,000 people in Ireland with asthma are prioritised—and not overlooked—this Budget Day.
A recent survey we conducted of 623 people affected by asthma found that one in four had skipped or delayed taking their medication in the past three months due to financial constraints.
This helps explain why Ireland's hospitalisation rates remain consistently above the European average, and half of all people with asthma here show signs their condition is uncontrolled.
No one should be forced to choose between paying for essential medication and other basic household needs.
That’s why we are urging Government to begin making asthma medications free to all who need them. We know this can’t happen overnight, so we’re calling for a phased approach to universal subsidisation, starting with the "gold standard” combination inhalers.
We also recommend an €8 reduction in the Drugs Payment Scheme monthly threshold, and the abolition of prescription charges for medical card holders.
With targeted investments in Budget 2026, the government has a real opportunity to reduce hospitalisations, improve medication adherence, and support better health for hundreds of thousands of people. Of course, it will also require political will.
Yours sincerely,
Eilís Ní Chaithnía, CEO, Asthma Society of Ireland, Suite 218/219, The Capel Building, Mary’s Abbey, Dublin 7.
Adviceline: 1800 44 54 64. ■
€300,000 for outdoor recreation
Over €300,000 in funding for Co. Wexford was announced last month as part of the national Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme. Welcoming the news, Minister James Browne TD stated that investment in recreational projects such as those outlined below has major positive impacts for the wellbeing of local communities and boosts local tourism and business.
Some of those who helped make a huge success of ‘10 Little Plays’ in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, last month. L-R: Naoise O’Connor, Fintan Kelly, Jennifer Kelly and Grace Boland.
Senator Byrne officially opens his Enniscorthy office
SENATOR CATHAL BYRNE OFFICIALLY OPENED HIS SENATOR'S OFFICE ON 28TH AUGUST 2025 AT CASTLE HILL, ENNISCORTHY, WITH THE FORMALITIES BEING CARRIED OUT BY PETER BURKE TD, MINISTER FOR ENTERPRISE, TOURISM AND EMPLOYMENT.
Enniscorthy in full bloom
Thanks mainly to Enniscorthy Municipal District and Enniscorthy Community Alliance
Sustainable Enniscorthy
This month Sustainable Enniscorthy’s guest contributor is Vision Ireland’s Enniscorthy manager Lisa Doran.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of Vision Ireland’s charity retail operations, shaping both its environmental impact and its broader community mission. Vision Ireland’s approach centres on promoting reuse, driving circular fashion, and diverting waste from landfill, all while supporting people experiencing sight loss across Ireland.
At the core of Vision Ireland’s sustainability efforts is their retail network— over 130 stores nationwide—through which the charity recirculates clothing, furniture, and household goods. An impressive 95% of all clothing donations are either sold for reuse or recycled, helping to prevent more than 410 tonnes of potential landfill waste annually. This contribution is significant considering the fashion industry’s role as one of the world’s largest polluters, and Vision Ireland’s model highlights the power of local action in addressing global challenges.
The charity actively encourages sustainable consumer behavior through donation campaigns and community initiatives. A notable example is their
“Skip The Skip” campaign, which urges people to donate unwanted furniture instead of discarding it, thus prolonging the life of household items and minimising environmental harm. Collection services, available in key regions, make furniture donation simple and accessible. In 2024 alone, Vision Ireland estimates it will collect over 109,000 10kg bags of overstock and returns, with a substantial portion (37%) of these goods recirculated for sale, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and resource efficiency.
Charity retail—by its nature—embodies the circular economy, offering sustainable alternatives to the traditional linear model of consumption and waste. This not only reduces carbon emissions and saves local authorities landfill taxes but also raises vital funds for Vision Ireland’s support services, including rehabilitation and independence training for people who are blind or visually impaired. The interconnectedness of environmental, social, and economic benefits positions
If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or be kept informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
Vision Ireland as a leader both in climate action and community support.
Furthermore, Vision Ireland’s operations align with Charity Retail Ireland’s wider sustainability vision, advocating for best practices, government engagement, and industry collaboration to further amplify their positive impact. Through ongoing education, stakeholder networking, and ambitious net carbon goals, Vision Ireland demonstrates that charity retail is much more than second-hand shopping—it’s an active, measurable force for sustainability and inclusion within Irish society.
In summary, Vision Ireland’s charity retail delivers meaningful sustainability by reducing waste, extending the life of goods, and providing social benefits to both donors and beneficiaries—all while championing strategies that aspire to a net carbon zero society by 2050. ■
Class sizes still a cause for concern
Ó Súilleabháin TD
Sinn Féin TD Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin has expressed deep concern following revelations that Ireland has the largest primary school class sizes in the EU.
The Wicklow-Wexford TD was reacting to figures released last month by the Department of Education.
Teachta Ó Súilleabháin said: “Nearly 10% of primary school students in the state are in unfit learning environments. 43,464 are in classes with over 30 pupils. This is not good enough.
“The average primary school class size here is 22.5, compared to a European average of 19. We are trailing behind our European counterparts in this respect due to chronic underinvestment in our education system.
“As a former primary school teacher myself (of 34 years – many years of which were spent in Special Education), I am deeply familiar with the strain big class sizes place on teachers and the sense that you are not able to provide the best quality education to your pupils, despite your best efforts. It’s not fair on anybody.
“The government is yet again reneging on promises made in this Programme for Government, as they did in the previous term, to reduce class sizes in line with international best practice.
North Wexford TD Malcolm Byrne has also expressed his concern as figures show 2,218 Wexford primary school students were in classes of 30 or more during the 2024/25 school year. Based on figures provided by the Department of Education, Deputy Byrne says that about a third of schools in the county have class sizes that are this large. Some schools even have more than one class with at least 30 pupils.
According to Deputy Byrne, “While there has been a significant and welcome reduction in the pupil teacher ratio in recent years, it is still of concern that we have so many large class sizes. This is unfair on those students and their teachers. I have prioritised pushing for a further reduction in these class sizes, as well as an increase in primary school capitation grants, to give every student the best possibility of succeeding in their education.”
The Fianna Fáil TD has spoken several times in Leinster House since his election around the need to invest in education.
“The best long term return on investment is by putting money into education. The Budget needs to continue to prioritise doing that.” ■
Wexford Co. Council unveils major new beach facilities in Curracloe
Fionntán
with INTO President Ann Horan at a summer pre-budget briefing in Buswells Hotel, Dublin.
Malcolm Byrne TD.
Wexford County Council is proud to present Curracloe Beach Facilities, the first of its kind in Ireland which has been co-funded by Fáilte Ireland. The sustainable and fully accessible facility contains hot showers, toilets, lockers, changing rooms, and a wash-down area for equipment like surfboards and kayaks. And there’s also a meeting space for groups before heading out on the water.
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Professional copywriting and editorial services based in Co. Wexford. Phone: 087-7946277. Email: caroline@changinglanes.ie
Dressmaking, alterations, fabrics, zips, haberdashery, Communion dresses – readymade and bespoke. Castle House, Castle Hill Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford Y21 P5C7
Tel: 085 858 1526
Find us on Facebook and Instagram
FOOD
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 ■
Do you need a bright, spacious venue for your next meeting or training session? The Astro Active Centre meeting rooms offer a modern, airy environment with plenty of natural light, ample free parking and convenient location. Get in touch today on 053 923 6678 to find out more.
Enniscorthy Toastmasters
The group meeets fortnightly on Tuesdays, September to June, in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, at 8pm. All welcome! https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthy-Toastmasters129333810455771 for updates. ■
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! ■
The development of a temporary carpark at the Murphy Floods site in Enniscorthy commenced on Tuesday 13th May, and opened to the public early last month. The project was costed at around €150,000.
The carpark includes pedestrian linkages to both the Main Street via a set of concrete steps and a pathway/ramp to the Dunnes Stores side. The area not under macadam has been suitably landscaped. Provision has been made for additional
Scholarship Draw now open
public
in
The new carpark adds 37 more carparking spaces for the town centre.
This new carpark is just a temporary one. The plan is to put the site, which has been professionally valued at €280,000, on the open market in the hope that a commercial business will take it over and develop it. ■
The 2025 Enniscorthy Credit Union Scholarship Draw is now open for applications from student members in any year. There is a PLC prize as well as Third Level bursary prizes. It is just one of the many ways Enniscorthy Credit Union gives something back to its members.
Apply online here: https://www.enniscorthycu.ie/services/studentbursary/ or call into any office and pick up an application form. 1st Prize €1,500 for 3 years. 2nd Prize €1,000 for 3 years. PLC Prize of €500.
Closing date: October 25th 2025. Draw: November 11th 2025. ■
lighting as requested by the local Councillors and
particular by Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.
First day at school
Above: Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh first day at school, 29th August 2025, with Sinéad Ni Chinnsealach, Naíonain Bheaga. Above right: Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh, Oliver Kenny and Aylen RackardO’Connor. Below left: Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh, Jackson Sludds and Lily Owens. Below centre: Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh, Theresa Peare, Freya Robert and Bobby Ronan. Below right: Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh, Sophie Darcey and Lara Howsbery.
Marshalstown first day at school 28th August 2025.
Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following posts
Assistant Planner
Executive Planner
Closing Date 31st December 2025
Applications will be processed as vacancies arise
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.
IF INTERESTED PLEASE APPLY IMMEDIATELY.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Fáiltíonn Comhairle Contae Loch Garman roimh iarratasóirí
do na poist seo a leanas:
Pleanálaí Cúnta
Pleanálaí Feidhmiúcháin
Is é an 31 Nollaig 2025 an dáta deiridh a nglacfar le hiarratais
Déanfar iarratais a phróiseáil de réir mar a thagann folúntais chun cinn
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.
MÁ TÁ SPÉIS AGAT SA PHOST, DÉAN
IARRATAS LÁITHREACH
Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
Wexford
County Council invites applicants for the following post
Temporary Marine Officer/Relief Pilot
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 post must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie
Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above post.
Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for the above post is: 5.00pm on Thursday, 11th September 2025.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Fáiltíonn Comhairle Contae
Loch Garman roimh iarratasóirí don phost seo a leanas
Oifigeach Muirí/Píolóta Ionaid Sealadach
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 don phost thuasluaite.
An dáta deiridh a nglacfar le foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe don phost thuasluaite ná: 5.00pm Déardaoin, an 11 Meán Fómhair 2025.
Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.
Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post
Assistant Chief Fire 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 post must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie
Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above post.
Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for the above post is: 5.00pm on Thursday, 18th September, 2025.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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.
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 Tracey Begley, CE Scheme Supervisor WCC on (087) 0029702 during office hours 9am – 5pm or email cesnorthwexford@wexfordcoco.ie
The closing date for all applications is Friday September 19th 2025 at 4.30pm.
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.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads
Wexford County Council gives notice of its decision to temporary close the listed roads to vehicular traffic on Thursday 4 September 2025 to facilitate the Finish Line for Stage 3 of Rás na mBan 2025.
Road Closures: The Avenue R741 (from Main Street Junction to Paul Funge Boulevard Roundabout) and Shamble Lane from 11:30 to 17:00 on Thursday 4 September 2025.
Alternative Route: Paul Funge Boulevard, McCurtain Street to Main Street (R772).
Alternative routes will be signposted. No Vehicular Access will be facilitated.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993
Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to extend the closure of the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic from Tuesday 2 September to Tuesday 9 September 2025 to facilitate the laying of electrical ducting to provide a connection for a Solar Farm at Tincurry, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.
Road Closure: L-6072-1, Tincurry, Enniscorthy from its junction with R745-11 to junction with. L-6073-1.
Alternative Routes: From junction R-745-11 to Ballycarney and onto L-6073-1 Tincurry Ballycarney. From junction L-6073-1 Tincurry to R-745-11 Ballycarney.
Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993
Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the following roads to public traffic on Friday 12 September, Saturday 13 September and Sunday 14 September 2025 to facilitate the holding of the Wexford Volkswagen Stages Motor Car Rally.
Friday 12 September 2025
Ceremonial start to Wexford Volkswagen Stages Motor Car Rally at Common Quay Street and North Main Street, Wexford town.
Road Closures: Common Quay Street (L7509-1) to its junction with Corn Market, North Main Street (L3500-4/5) from its junction with Corn Market to its junction with Anne Street and Anne Street (L7513-1).
Times: 18.00 to 21.30
Alternative Routes: Travelling North Bound on Quay: Common Quay Street to Commercial Quay to Redmond Square to Selskar Street to George Street Lower to Abbey Street to Cornmarket via the R730, L3500, L7505, L7525 and the L7531.
Travelling South Bound on the Quay: King Street to Saint Joseph Street to Roches Road to School Street to Rowe Street to Church Lane via the R733, R889, L7534, L7511 and the L7510.
Route: Kinnagh to Saintleonards to Clonmines to Willington Bridge to Ballyowen to Rosegarland to Rosspile to Longgraigue to Newcastle via the L4040-3, L4040-4, L8105-1, R733 and the R736.
Route: Slevoy to Horetown to Traceytown West to Taghmon to Newtown via the L3034-5, L7057-2, L7057-1, L7022-1, L7025-2, L7025-3, L3034-1, L3032-2, L3032-1 and the R738.
Alternative routes will be signposted.
Please note that it may be possible by prior arrangement with the Wexford Motor Club to facilitate some local access at certain times.
www.wexfordcoco.ie
The following tender competitions are currently active
ID Reference Tender Description Closing Date
6236558 33/LEO/2025 Digital Review and Marketing Strategy for Invest Wexford 2025 05/09/2025
6349194 35/ENV/2025 Duncannon Old Pier Repair Works 2025 12/09/2025
6383239 36/RD/2025 Wexford Cycle Schemes: Newtown Road Phase 2 and Phase 3 - Racecourse to Hospital Junction, and Hospital Junction to Bayview 29/09/2025
6390526 37/ENV/2025 Marine Services 03/10/2025
If you wish to obtain further information and make a submission for any of the tenders please visit www.etenders.gov.ie
Are you on Wexford County Council’s Social Housing Supports List?
Do you wish to remain on the List?
Wexford County Council is currently carrying out a review of the Social Housing Supports List (Housing List) and will be writing to existing approved applicants requesting that they update their details.
To remain eligible for Social Housing Supports, existing approved applicants who receive a Summary of Social Housing Assessment (SSHA 2025) review form must return the form with the relevant documents within the specified time as detailed on same.
Please note that not all applicants will receive a SSHA 2025 form. Applicants who have applied, or been reassessed, since 27th June 2024 will not receive a form. Also transfer applicants, including those in Private Rented accommodation receiving HAP (Housing Assistance Payment), will not receive a form.
Any applicant, whose circumstances have changed, can contact the Customer Service Unit or any Area Housing Officer for a ‘change of circumstances’ form. It is imperative that our Social Housing Supports list is up to date to ensure the proper allocation of Social Housing Supports.
Failure to return the information will result in you being removed from the Housing List.
Applicants must submit 52 weeks income details for all household members by the following means:-
Any household member in employment Any household member in selfemployment
Evidence of 12 months’ income prior to the date of application must be submitted through a combination of the following:
Current Year
Payslips for all employments or Pay and Tax Summary (Year to date). This can be obtained from Revenue’s online service, myAccount* and will include all employments in this current year to date.
Previous Year Statement of Liability 2024. This can be obtained through Revenue’s online service, myAccount* or your local tax office and Employment Detail Summary 2024. This can be obtained from Revenue’s online service, myAccount*. *https://www.ros.ie/myaccount-web/home.html
A minimum of 2 years’ accounts with an Auditors Report and A Notice of Assessment and/or SelfAssessment Acknowledgement letter for the preceding 12 months
Any household members in receipt of social welfare
It is not necessary to provide details of social welfare payments from the Department of Social Protection as such payment information is available to Wexford County Council for individual reassessments.
For any/all household members with a disability or medical condition a separate HMD – Form 1 (Disability and/or Medical Information form) must be submitted. This can be requested from the Customer Service Unit by telephoning 053-919 6000.
‘10 Little Plays’ at The Presentation Arts Centre
Above: Raffle time at the ‘10 Little Plays, at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, Nikki Cogley, in front, holding one of the winning raffle tickets with some of the writers, directors and performers on stage behind her.
Below: Some of the writers, directors, performers and attendees at ‘10 Little Plays’ in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, 21-23 August, 2025.
Slaney ad Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
ENNISCORTHY ARTS & CULTURE FEST
The second Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival will take place on the weekend of Culture Night, from 18th – 21st September, incorporating many of the art forms prominent in this amazingly talented town of ours and using many of our amazing iconic buildings.
The Arts & Culture Festival Committee is building a festival beginning on Thursday 18th September with a Film Night at our magnificent Castle. The films are the work of Wexford Film Workshop and include award-winning Norman film – Forbidden Bonds, Fairy Godmother – set in 1966 Enniscorthy, and our latest film Shadow of Tyranny about the murder of the Redmond Brothers at Ballycarney in 1798.
On Culture Night itself, Friday 19th September, in collaboration with Enniscorthy Castle Living History Exhibition, we will be displaying a Costume Exhibition by costume designer Barbara Guthrie showcasing her stunning collection of period outfits –Norman/1798/1867/1916/1920/1922.
The exhibition will open at 5pm with Barbara’s recreation of the famous painting by Frederic William Burton, The Meeting on the Turret Stairs, on display at the National Gallery – Barbara has recreated the costumes of Hellelil and Hildebrand – Knight and
Enniscorthy-based Selin Kim will open the 2025 Arts & Culture Festival on Friday 19th September at 7.30pm at Y21 Studios with A Taste of Cambodia – food/music/dance. Selin is national President of the Cambodian community in Ireland and Ms Planet Ireland 2025.
Lady, who will meet on the stairs at Enniscorthy Castle – this is a must for all photographers – so please do join us at the Castle on Friday 19th.
Join the Festival organisers on Friday 19th September at 5pm at Enniscorthy Castle where this famous painting ‘Meeting on the Turret Stairs’ will come to life with real models and replica costumes designed by costume designer Barbara Guthrie to open the Living History Event for Culture Night.
The organisers would be delighted if as many photographers as possible attended the event and send this amazing photo viral.
The official opening of the Festival will take place at Y21 Studios on Culture Night at 7.30pm when Selin Kim, the National President of the Cambodian Community in Ireland and Miss Planet Ireland 2025, will talk about the culture of Cambodia and the Miss Planet International pageant, giving a demonstration of Cambodian dance and inviting all to sample a Taste of Cambodian Cuisine.
Join us on Saturday 20th at Enniscorthy Castle at 2.30pm for Afternoon Tea with bestselling author Carmel Harrington who has just completed her 13th book The Stolen Child. Carmel, who resides with her family at Screen, Co. Wexford, is an internationally published novelist and has been shortlisted twice for an Irish Book Award.
Her books have captured the hearts of readers worldwide and are published in ten different languages.
Carmel is affable, engaging, and entertaining and will, I have no
TIVAL 18-21 SEPT
doubt, keep the Castle audience enthralled with her advice, stories and literary expertise.
If drama is your genre then we will have plenty for you at The Presentation Arts Centre on Saturday 20th September from 7.30pm when three short plays will be staged – written, directed and performed by local playwrights, directors and actors.
On Sunday 21st September we will have Comedy at the IFA Centre hosted by Enniscorthy’s own funny man Brendan Robinson, and earlier that day Plein Air Artists will be around the town painting re-enactors in period dress at historic locations.
On Sunday night also the Festival will come to a close with a bang as our South East Rock ‘n’ Roll Club host an energetic, colourful event at The Bailey.
Throughout the Festival weekend renowned local artist Marja van Kampen will exhibit her uniquely beautiful work at her studio at the IFA Centre on Mill Park Road (see page 92).
We do sincerely hope that this has whetted your appetite and do stay tuned to the Slaney News Facebook page for further updates on the Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival, 18th – 21st September 2025. n
– Maria Nolan
Film Workshop will showcase three films written, directed, and produced locally, each depicting a piece of Enniscorthy history. Award-winning films ‘Forbidden Bonds’ and ‘Fairy Godmother’ will be shown along with the latest production ‘Shadow of Tyranny’ at Enniscorthy Castle on Thursday 18th September from 7.30pm.
Wexford
An all-female comedy night – a first for Enniscorthy – brought to you by Brendan Robinson on Sunday 21st September .
Enjoy free events for Culture Night in Enniscorthy on 19 September
In addition to the Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival taking place from 18-21st September (see previous two pages), there are a number of other events taking place on Culture day/night (19th September) around the town.
Enniscorthy Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann
Irish Music, Song & Dance
National 1798 Rebellion Centre, 7pm–9pm
Inis Córthaidh CCÉ will hold a Culture Night event on Friday September 19th in the National 1798 Rebellion Centre from 7pm-9pm.
‘Let’s create a floating city’
The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, 6pm–9pm No booking required. All ages welcome.
All are welcome to The Presentation Arts Centre on Culture Night for a free art workshop! Using paper, cardboard, and a lot of drawing magic to create fun imaginative 3D buildings, participants are going to create a huge floating city of paper buildings. What does your dream house look like? Let your imagination run wild, all while enjoying complimentary refreshments and snacks in the warm and vibrant environment of The Presentation Arts Centre.
When this giant neighbourhood of buildings is complete, it will be hung high in the main gallery of The Presentation Arts Centre at the end of the workshop for all to enjoy and be inspired by, and will remain in the main gallery for several weeks after.
This will be an informal evening of music, song and dance. Admission is free.
This workshop is facilitated by the Enniscorthy based illustrator Larry Dunne, who is well known for his whimsical and imaginative drawings of towns and cities. This is an all-ages event, (young people under 13 require adult supervision) and there is no booking required. Drop in as part of your Culture Night trail.
Enniscorthy Community Allotments
6.30pm–8.30pm. All ages welcome. No booking required.
Celebrate the richness and beauty of our diverse community in Enniscorthy through a vibrant evening of Culture at the Enniscorthy Allotments.
Featuring music from around the world, storytelling and poetry from different cultures, delicious international dishes, dance and colour.
Highlighting traditions from Bangladesh, Hungary, Estonia, Spain, Zimbabwe, Canada, Great Britain, Poland, Brazil, the Philippines, Latvia – and more!
Bring your friends, family, and an appetite for culture! n
The Buddy Enniscorthy group was delighted to hand over a cheque for €11,000 to the suicide prevention charity – Pieta – the proceeds from the fantastic show "Paddy’s Band" held in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, in May this year.
The show’s dynamic producer and director Adrienne Murphy said: “We would like to thank all our sponsors for the kind and much appreciated donations, thank you to the brilliant audiences who came every night, and the absolutely fabulous cast who were brilliant to work with yet again. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did, and just in case that you did not get a chance to see our great show, ‘Paddys Band’ is now up on YouTube for everyone to enjoy.” n
€11,000 raised for Pieta
Summer party at The Village at Wheelocks as Stitch and friends visited there on 30th July 2025.
Above: Adrienne and Trevor Murphy.
Great shows to look forward to
Hits from the Musicals
Wexford Light Opera Society (WLOS) presents their annual Hits From The Musicals – a show that sells out its full run every year.
This year is WLOS’s 29th annual celebration of musical theatre – four unforgettable nights of showstopping favourites and spine-tingling performances!
Dates: Monday 27 – Thursday 30 October 2025.
Venue: Whites of Wexford Hotel.
Showtime: 8pm, doors open 7.30pm.
Tickets: €27.50.
Book now while there are tickets still available: https://www.nationaloperahouse.ie/whats-on/wexford-lightopera-society
Box Office: (053) 9122144.
These shows are selling fast – don’t miss out, book now!
Jesus Christ Superstar
WLOS will be staging the iconic musical Jesus Christ Superstar in the National Opera House, Wexford, from 27th April to 2nd May 2026, featuring the music of Andrew Lloyd Webber and the lyrics of Tim Rice. The show has been a global phenomenon that has wowed audiences for decades – a timeless work set against the backdrop of an extraordinary series of events, seen through the eyes of Judas Iscariot.
The story, told entirely through song, explores the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, his followers, and the Roman Empire. The musical contains such well-known numbers as Superstar, I Don’t Know How to Love Him and Gethsemane.
WLOS will be holding auditions on Sunday 12th of October 2025. Registration forms, character breakdowns, and audition packs will be available soon.
Whether you’re interested in a principal role or ensemble and chorus, WLOS would love to hear from you. As always, new members very welcome! If you have any queries please please contact secretary@wlos.ie
Updates: https://www.facebook.com/wexfordlightop era n
Eve Donohoe of CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford, 3rd place for the Fiddle (over 18 years) at the 2025 Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Wexford.
Ava Redmond of CCÉ Tuaisceart Loch Garman, Wexford, 2nd place for the Piano (15-18 years) at the 2025 Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Wexford.
Aoife Ní Choilféir of CCÉ, Bannow, Wexford, 2nd place All Ireland Winner for Lilting (over 18 years) at the 2025 Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Wexford.
Not all fun and games...
IT WASN'T ALL FUN AND GAMES AT THIS YEAR'S FLEADH IN WEXFORD... THERE WAS THE SERIOUS MATTER OF THE COMPETITIONS, AND GLAD TO SAY CO. WEXFORD PUNCHED ABOVE ITS WEIGHT IN THAT ASPECT.
THE RESULTS BELOW SHOW THE CO. WEXFORD WINNERS AND RUNNERS-UP.
Competition, Place, Name, CCÉ, County:
12C Pianó / Piano (15-18 years), 2nd place, Ava Redmond, CCÉ, Tuaisceart Loch Garman, Wexford
– Ronan Winters, Kilmore, Sarah O’Connor, Castlebridge, and Niall Reck, Wexford.
statue in Selskar.
Top left: Visitors – Emily Shaw, Wexford, Moya Cavery, Clonakilty, and Emily Ryan, Howth.
Top right: Visitors – Paul Lancaster, Tina Foley, Mike Ryan, Indie Ryan and Mikie Ryan (brother and sister), Thea Ryan, Lesley-Ann Ryan from Murroe, Co. Limerick ancestry.
Above left: Flash mob of Fleadh musicians from near and far at Whites Hotel on the day after.
Above right: Few knew their fellow musicians.
Below left: The music brought them together.
Below right: The playing of the harp and the piano dominated the accordions, the flutes, the tin whistles, fiddles and ukeleles.
Summer party at Wheelocks
Stitch and friends visit the Village at Wheelocks on 30th July 2025
Top left: Isla Rossiter and Ciata Caufield. Top centre: John and Abbie Richardson. Top right: Donald Duck and Minnie Mouse lead the train. Above left: Kate Shannon and Tadhg Fitzgerald. Above centre: Cathy Curley Kelly. Above right: Susan, Conor and Alice Killeen with Helen Cosgrave. Below left and right: Having fun. Bottom left: Doing the Hokey Cokey. Bottom centre: Ruairi and Ava Dunne. Bottom right: Emily Richards and Louise Drohan.
All are invited...
Enniscorthy Library and Blackstairs Blues Festival would like to invite you to an unforgettable performance by the legendary Dermot Byrne, on 11th September at 7pm, in Enniscorthy Library.
Experience an evening of music, culture, and community in the welcoming setting of Enniscorthy Library.
Dermot Byrne has performed at many of the Blackstairs Blues festivals including the very first festival in 1995.
He has built up a steady following over the years performing authentic renditions of classic blues and roots music as well as selfpenned material. He has brought his brand of real down-home blues and roots music to venues throughout Europe and the United States.
Playing slide guitar and harmonica, he is recognised as being one of Ireland’s finest interpreters of blues songs. His influences include Robert Johnson, Fred McDowell, Son House, and Muddy Waters as well as artists such as Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash.
Dermot has opened for or performed with legendary blues artists such as Eric Bibb, Long John Hunter, Steve James, Sam Mitchel, Byther Smyth, Catfish Keith, and has collaborated on several TV shows with Irish star Don Baker and England’s first lady of Blues, Connie Lush.
Maria Nolan captures the Coláiste Bríde Debs gathering at Bellefield GAA complex last month
Delightful Dollies learn all about crime prevention
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER
Crime Prevention Talk at Delightful Dollies weekly meeting at Bellefield GAA complex, 6th August 2025.
Below
Top left: Sergeant Eddie Wilde, Crime Prevention Officer, speaks to the Dollies.
right: Bridget Major, Daisy Newman and Treacy Cowman.
Distinguished Wexford-born scientists highlighted in Wexford Science Café talk
Brian Trench, the convenor of the Wexford Science Café, has added two people to his list of distinguished scientists found to have Wexford origins. They were, he said, key figures in Wexford’s scientific heritage.
Earlier this year, his campaign to give recognition to Arthur Leared, the Wexford born physician, led to the erection by Wexford Borough Council and Wexford Town Library of a plaque in the Bullring in Wexford town.
Arthur Leared (1822-1879), who lived on the outskirts of the town near Park, was a graduate of Trinity College. He became a noted physician and inventor of the binaural stethoscope used today by medics all over the world.
Now, Brian Trench has added two more distinguished Wexford-born scientists to his list.
In a lecture to the Wexford Science Café, last month, he told the audience that the paths probably crossed in university of one Arthur William Conway who was born at Fettit’s’ Lane, corner of No. 18 Main Street in Wexford town in 1875 and one Phyllis Ryan of Tomcoole Big, Taghmon, who was born twenty years later, in 1895.
Arthur Conway was a mathematical physicist in UCD and Phyllis Ryan was a chemistry graduate student in UCD. What they had in common was that Phyllis’ fellow Wexfordian, Arthur, was a professor and colleague of her mentor Hugh Ryan, no relation, professor of chemistry in UCD. The year was 1908.
Brian Trench has pieced together the fascinating connections between the Wexford
born scientists and an elite ‘mainly boy’s club’ in Dublin.
In his research in Wexford Library and in the National Archives in Dublin he traced the lives of both scientists and the influences that led to their many outstanding achievements in different fields.
Arthur Conway
He found that Arthur Conway’s father was Myles Conway who was in business with William Harris in a pork butchery cum fish business in Fettit’s Lane and was active ‘in Catholic affairs’. Myles died when Arthur was aged two and his widow married a William Busher, an extensive farmer in Ballyknocken, Rosslare. From a young age Arthur was on the farm and he would swim at Rosslare Strand.
He went to school in the Loreto and then to St Peter’s College where he was a prize-winning student at all levels. From there he went to the Royal University of Ireland and won more prizes. One of those prizes allowed him to go on to graduate studies in Corpus Christi College in Oxford.
At aged 25, he was appointed professor in the Royal University of Ireland, and he completed his PhD in 1902. He joined the Royal Dublin Society.
As Professor of Mathematical Physics, he focused on quaternions and he published a range of topics in modern physics around electromagnetics, atomic structure, electric waves, and optics.
He became registrar of that university and stayed in that post for 30 years before becoming president.
According to Brian Trench’s research, his connections led to further famous connections. Among the people he rubbed shoulders with were many of his fellow members of the Royal Dublin Society with the designation FRS. They are shown in a group photograph. Among his further associates were some of Ireland’s most influential people including Éamon de Valera, later to become President of Ireland, William Rowan Hamilton, John McClelland, John L. Synge, John J. Nolan, Edmund Whittaker, Astronomer Royal. Arthur Conway and Edmund Whitaker together delivered lectures on Einstein’s Theory of Relativity.
Indicating his significant international influences, Arthur Conway was an associate of Erwin Schrodinger who won the Nobel Prize in the 1930s and was a fellow member with Whitaker in the Pontifical Academy of Sciences.
Brian Trench, science author and former national newspaper journalist is former president of the Irish Science and Technology Journalists Association. He is former head of the School of Communications in Dublin City University. He lives in Duncormick, Co. Wexford.
Arthur Conway and Phyllis Ryan.
Section of the audience at the Wexford Science Café lecture by Brian Trench.
Éamon De Valera set up the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS) and requested that it have a Department of Theoretic Physics. The attendance at the DIAS included de Valera, Paul Dirac, Nobel Prize Winner in 1936, Edward Schrodinger, Sheila Power, later Tinney, the only woman present and Arthur Conway.
Arthur Conway was regarded as a successful president of UCD in very difficult times. Everything was scarce, but during his time as president from 1940 to 1947, the number of students trebled.
Phyllis Ryan
Talking about Phyllis Ryan, Brian Trench said she was one of a family of 12 altogether. Born in 1895, she, the youngest, went to the local national school and then to the Loreto nuns in Gorey and later the Loreto College in St Stephen’s Green, Dublin. He said: “That a farmer’s family puts 12 children through secondary education and eleven of those through tertiary education in the late 1890s is remarkable. Their mother, named Sutton, from a family of educators was responsible it is thought.”
The Ryan children are said to have attended at primary schools at Caroreigh and at Glynn, Co. Wexford. Phyllis’s brother, Dr James (Jim) Ryan, later Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Health, and Minister for Finance, attended Caroreigh primary school.
The twelve children of John Ryan and Eliza, née Sutton, of Tomcoole Big, Taghmon, were in order of birth: Joanna (1877), Mary Kate (1878) who married Seán T. O’Kelly in 1918, Liz (1880), Nell (1881), Martin (1883),
1916 Rising and later Minister for Agriculture in 1932, Minister for Health and Social Welfare in 1947, and Minister for Finance in 1957.
Min (1884), Mike (1886), Jack (1887), Agnes (1888), Christine (1890), James (1891), and Phyllis (1895).
Min Ryan was married to General Richard Mulcahy, commander in chief of the national army in the Irish Civil War. Following the death of her sister Mary Kate, two years later Phyllis married Seán T O’Kelly in 1936. Seán T. O’Kelly was elected President of Ireland in 1945.
Following secondary school at the Loreto in Gorey and in Dublin, Phyllis went to UCD and did research with professor Hugh Ryan. Some of that research was funded by the Nobel company, the same company who set up the Nobel prizes. Hugh and Phyllis worked on the capacities of certain chemicals to explode.
Brian Trench found handwritten notes by Phyllis on a paper written by Eckenberg on the use and economics of peat, the possibility of compressing peat into briquettes as a fuel and as a contributor to the economy.
He said that Professor Hugh Ryan encouraged Phyllis to go to London and train as a public analyst, one of the very few in Ireland.
“She had already built up a profile as a Republican activist, a member of Cumann na mBan in Ranelagh. She ran dispatches for
the rebels in the GPO in 1916 when her brother James was there as a medical officer. She and her sister Min provided medical aid to casualties.
“Prof Hugh Ryan gave her space in Earlsfort Terrace to run her public analysis laboratory, testing water, milk, butter, oil and other things for possible contamination. It became a meeting place for the IRA leadership. Her brother-inlaw Richard Mulcahy could store things there.
Her business as public analyst with commissions from county councils built up and moving from her premises in Lower O’Connell Street, she got new premises in the New Ireland Assurance Company at 12 Dawson St.
She was appointed by Seán Lemass to the Industrial Research Board. She was the only woman member.
In 1945, when Sean T. O’Kelly was elected President of Ireland, Phyllis became Bean a Tí (First Lady) at Áras an Uachtaráin.
Brian Trench concluded his lecture saying that Phyllis Ryan is highly remembered as an outstanding scientist and as somebody who gave leadership to women and had taken on roles that women hadn’t previously taken on.
Photos by Michael Freeman.
Ryan family relations: The audience at the Wexford Science Café lecture included Phyllis Ryan’s family relations, from left, Ian Cullen, Sarah Cullen and Yvonne Miller (Wexford) and on right with his wife Kathryn is Dr Jim Ryan (Dublin), a biologist, grandson of Phyllis Ryan’s brother Dr James Ryan (Medical) who was born at Tomcoole Big, near Taghmon, became medical officer in the GPO during the
Plaques to Arthur Leared and Arthur Conway in Bullring, Wexford town.
Ceann Comhairle Verona lifts ‘THIS’ to launch Paddy Berry’s ‘Love of Mary’
The Fleadh’s wonderful accordion players at Greenacres in Wexford town hushed as An Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann, Verona Murphy TD, walked to the podium and raised “THIS”.
“I brought THIS” she said, as she brandished it above her head to squeals of laughter from the applauding audience packed into the Art Gallery. “THIS” was a small polished wooden mallet or hammer! It was a gavel. In the High Court, a judge would use it. In the Dáil chamber, they might replace that tinkly bell with one. A friend of hers had gifted it to her in hope. A gavel would assert more authority than a mere bell in the official role of Ceann Comhairle.
In an off-the-cuff, ex-tempore address, she said, “It’s a huge honour for me to be here to launch Paddy Berry’s book. Everyone knows Paddy, who is the hugely popular President of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann for song and dance. But I know him as a family friend of my mother and father all the years.” She recalled that half of her own siblings had been delivered by the hero of the book, Paddy’s late wife, a nurse named Mary Power, from St Kearns, Saltmills.
Holding the gavel and brandishing a tat-
tered advance copy in A4 sheets of the book For the Love of Mary subtitled Courting in the 1960s, A Tale based on Fact, but laced with Fiction, she said she had a word with her aunty Margaret. “Aunty Margaret is a woman of great honesty who said she doesn’t believe there’s any fiction in Paddy’s book. I can tell you Paddy wouldn’t have written this book if Mary was around. He’d have no home to go to.”
Quoting from her advance copy, she told how she was surprised at what she read on page 62, but by the time she reached page 65, she reasoned that Paddy ‘should have been left behind’ and by page 78, and just as she had said to fellow deputies in the Dáil in another context, she said that Paddy had made ‘a holy show of himself!’ The audience laughed again.
She told the audience that “as an employer, Paddy Berry is as decent a man as ever lived. And he’s a courageous man who had left his home farm to go to Dublin to lay blocks and become a builder.” “You persevered and by God it was hard fought,” she said to him.
There was similar praise for Paddy Berry from Garry Laffan, the Mayor of Wexford, who said that Paddy Berry was a
great ambassador for Wexford, for Irish culture, music, song and dance and as much for his playing on the GAA fields all over Wexford and beyond.
Eddie Taaffe, the chief executive of Wexford County Council, said that Paddy was the guiding light in organising and planning the Fleadh and that the spirit of what you see on the streets is in part due to Paddy.
Deputy George Lawlor TD, public relations officer, who had been ‘minding Michael Flatley and 150,000 people in Wexford town’ that day of the Fleadh, said that it was four years since Paddy and himself had soldiered on the Fleadh Executive committee to win the Fleadh for Wexford town. He said, “The simple reason that Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the biggest event of its kind in the world, is in Wexford Town, is because of Paddy Berry. He has given so much to Irish culture and Irish history and Irish heritage and he has given it with a heart and a half. He’s an icon. He attended 63 fleadhs in his lifetime. As a public representative, I’m just honoured and delighted to be able to say I stood shoulder to shoulder with Paddy Berry as we brought the best Fleadh on earth to Wexford town.”
Above left: Cllr Jim Codd, Labhrás Ó Murchú (Comhaltas Ceoilto�iri�E�ireann), George Lawlor TD (PRO for the Fleadh), Paddy Berry (author), Verona Murphy TD (Ceann Comhairle), Garry Laffan (Mayor of Wexford) and Senan Lillis (MC). Above right: Margaret Allen (nee Berry).
Labhrás Ó Murchú, Director General of Comhaltas Ceoiltóirí Éireann, said the packed hall in Greenacres in the midst of the Fleadh bears testimony to Paddy Berry’s popularity. “I can’t wait to read his book. Here is a man who has never got full credit for what he did. He’s popular not just in Wexford or in Ireland but with cultures abroad. He’s loved everywhere. When people want a touchstone in the context of what is tradition, this is the man. He’s had several books published but I bet you haven’t seen his poetry and his short stories.
“This man is a repository of all that’s best in Irish culture. He’s president of the fleadh and there’s a good possibility that he’ll join the list of presidents of Ireland and if that happens, there’ll be a Fleadh every morning and every afternoon!”
The author Paddy Berry told how the passing of his wife Mary had left a void which he found difficult to cope with for a while and writing the book helped him along the way. He thanked the many people who had helped and guided him, including the author Helen Ashdown for proofreading, and Áine Bo-
land of Think Print for design, layout, and printing.
Senan Lillis was the perfect master of ceremonies for the launch.
An Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy TD brought down her gavel gently on the piano which James O’Connor of Greenacres said was covered with a hard top for the singer musician performer Pierce Turner to dance on. Verona declared to all there that Paddy Berry’s book For the Love of Mary was well and truly launched.
Top: The audience listening. Above left: Paddy Berry, Margaret Allen (ne� e Berry) and Mary Hanafin (former Government Minister).
Above right: Labhrá� s Ó Murchú presented the Tom White Memorial Trophy for best piper of the Fleadh to Mark Redmond, Gorey. Below left:
Pa�draig Berry, Paddy Berry, Verona Murphy TD, A�ine Berry, Ciara� n Berry and Michael Berry. Below right: Aoife Berry, Jack Berry, Margaret Allen (ne� e Berry) and Mia Berry.
Pics by Damien Smullen
Final Curtain Call for Recoil
Words by Dorn Simon
“Recoil, Recoil, Recoil” was chanted in unison on August 3rd at The Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy.
A fine farewell to local band Recoil, who delivered the sad news a week prior that the band would be discontinuing, only a few short months after the long anticipated release of their EP ‘In Mind’.
A young teen band who stormed onto the music scene a mere two years ago, who wanted to ‘Start A Riot’ with their slew of hits, including the number 1 ‘Rip You Out’ on iTunes, the band attracted hordes of fans with a fashion savvy entourage wherever they played, which included nationwide, festivals, cafes, bars and clubs.
The boys that began as young as 15 with the moniker Recoil, playing their unique blend of punk, rock and indie matured fast, never missing an opportunity, branched out to play in local jam sessions, open mic nights, to play the blues the Blackstairs Blues Festival, rock’n’roll at the Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival, many a night in local estab-
lishments, one, or more or all five have graced our ears with their unending and growing talent.
Jack Cloke – Evan Delaney – AJ O’Neill – Andrew Kehoe –Connor Lee Carr.
Are five outstanding musicians who, whether together or not, will move forward and go far.
At their final performance headlining day two of OUTRAGE music festival brought to us by local promotion company Outrage Entertainment, the atmosphere was thick with mixed emotions; the excitement to see Recoil, the buzz of the festival, the delight in mingling with friends, yet, the stark reality that this would be the final time Recoil would play as a band.
The setlist – a collection of their original hits, fan favourite covers and an ultimate showcase of their talents.
Rip You Out Mistakes
Alternative
Jumpin’ Jack Flash Back Door Man/Five To One Let The Boys
Oblivion Sedated
Wanna Start A Riot
Ever Fallen In Love In Mind
Boys In The Better Land
The crowd full, engaging, revelling and many atop shoulders as they danced, sang along, smiled, admired – all slowly leading to the emotional tear-jerking crescendo at the end.
On stage the band delivered their best through fraught emotion, the intensity was clear on every member’s face, as they played live together for the final time.
By the time we reached ‘In Mind’ the lyrics began to fade at times, as the voice cracked in overwhelming, crumbling emotions hard to swallow, yet that moment, that song, will remain In everyone’s Mind!
Finishing off with a punk exit as punks do.
The band huddled together to take their final curtain call bow, to all attending, to photographers, to family, to friends.
Hearts, Hugs and Tears, Farewell Recoil! n
Minions at Wheelocks 6th August 2025
VILLAGE AT WHEELOCKS, ENNISCORTHY.
Top left: Mum Majella and Aoife Donoghue. Top right: Doing the Hokey Cokey. Above left: Kiron and Evie McCarthy. Left: Ann Connors.
Kingfishr’s double cause for celebration
BOOLAVOGUE'S CLIONA DID CO. WEXFORD PROUD
AT THE
ROSE OF TRALEE FESTIVAL
26-year-old Wexford Rose Clíona O’Leary certainly did her county proud at this year’s Rose of Tralee Festival, and stunned the Dome and TV audiences with a moving rendition of Boolavogue.
Residing at her family’s farm in Boolavogue, the Wexford Rose is currently in her third year at SETU Wexford, studying for a Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Farm Management and Agribusiness. She is completing a six-month work placement at John Cullen Grain in Ballymurn.
A sociable person with a great sense of humour, Clíona is heavily involved in Macra and serves on various committees within the organisation. She is active in her local community, lending a hand wherever possible. She has a love of country music and dancing, and is never too far from a dance floor. Friday nights are often spent playing bingo in support of Oulart the Ballagh GAA club.
Clíona feels fortunate to have been surrounded by a wonderful group of friends and family who supported her all the way on her exciting Rose of Tralee journey. n
Wexford Rose Clíona O’Leary.
FCJ Bunclody Debs
Gathered at the Holy Grail,Bunclody, Thursday, 28th August, 2025.
enniscorthy 'Thru’ the Lens: Youth Vibes from the
Can you put names on any of the others?
Left: Group photo includes James & Noel McCormick, Anthony Pepper, Noel Kinnaird, Elaine O'Connor, Suzanne Byrne, Deirdre Redmond, Annette Byrne, Jim Byrne, Darren Tierney, and Johnny Doyle.
Some photos in this series include people who have since passed to their eternal reward. We hope these photos will help bring back fond memories to their family members and friends.
Below left: Visiting patients at St. John’s: Liz Nolan, Anne Marie Robinson, Mag Mitchell, Caitriona O’Connor, Martina Crofts. Below right: GAA, front: Jim Kearney, Purt Doyle, Eugene Doyle, Patrick Murphy, Billy Sinnott, PJ Leacy (RIP). Back: John Joe Nolan, Jim O’Sullivan, Seamie Whitney, Sean Maguire (RIP), Billy Morrissey, Ger Mitchell.
Enniscorthy Retirement Association
The Enniscorthy Retirement Association holds monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of every month at 2.30pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, The Promenade, Enniscorthy, with the exception of January and August.
There are regular outings, as well as various activities every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. 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 websitet www.enniscorthyretirement.net n
LOCAL ARTS CENTRES
Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764. Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000. Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529.
Wexford
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WexfordEvents for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n
Mary is Miss Universal Global pageant winner
Congrats to Mary Mullally, originally from Enniscorthy, but now living in Cork, who has added another crown to her glittering modelling career by recently winning the Ms Division at Miss Universal Global in Orlando, Florida. n
Larry Dunne, one of the talented new playwrights who contributed to the successful run of ‘10 Little Plays’ in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, last month.
A new Enniscorthy men’s choir meets up at 7pm every Monday night at Templeshannon Community Centre. Called Voices of Harmony, the new group is currently looking for new members. With Autumn approaching it’s a great time to start a new pastime. If you like to sing why not go along to and join in on Monday 8th September.
NO AUDITIONS REQUIRED, JUST SHOW UP AND SING ALONG WITH THE GROUP.
New members are always welcome! For more info Call Seamus on 087 2930510.
Top class concert in Tinahely
EVERY MONDAY NIGHT
addition, the Templars Singing Group meets up every Thursday morning at 10.30am at Templeshannon Community Centre. For more information, phone 053 9237511. n
In
Leo Carthy Weekend
Our Lady’s Island village 2nd-3rd August 2025
Above left: Taking part in the 6k Fun Run, Shay, Sam, Patrick and Fran O’Sullivan.
Above centre: Bridget and Issy Aspel. Above right: Deirdre Mason and Anthony Dowd.
Below left: Mother and daughter Allison and Helen Burrell. Below centre: Theresa Rea and Marie Mullins serving up the tasty crepes. Below right: Paula Murphy.
Kicking off the show: Anthony Bares and fellow musicians.
PAT’S
PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Top left: Cllr Ger Carthy, son of Leo Carthy, and Brian Parle. Top centre: Two ‘Vintage’ men Sid Scallan and James McCormack. Top right: The Vintage and Tactor Run – a Ford 3600. Above left: Taking part in the 6k Fun Run were Cora O’Donavan, Lily Gail, Lor and Alan Wallace. Above right: Having a good look at the tractors. Below: Taking part in the 6k Fun Run on the Sunday morning.
This year’s Blackstairs Blues Festival marks 30 years of the Blues in the Sunny Southeast! Full details on: https://www.facebook.com/BlackstairsBluesFestival
Photos: Launch night on 21st August in Rackard’s pub, Enniscorthy. Festival brochures: Available around town. n
Enniscorthy band raising money for Palestinian families and children Events
Local band 12 Gauge Outrage are proud to announce a special charity show in support of The Sameer Project, helping families and children in Palestine.
It will take place on Saturday, September 20th, at The Coal Shed, Kelly's on the Corner, Wexford, 6pm until late. Tickets: €5 with all proceeds donated. Special guests on the night will be Sticky Digit who recently returned to the stage after a decade.
12 Gauge Outrage says a special thank-you to Al Wadi Falafel and Kelly's for making this event possible Go along, enjoy the music, and stand with a great cause.
12 Gauge Outrage have also released a new single called The World We Burn Through, from their album Echoes Within, dedicated to raising funds for humanitarian aid for children and families in Palestine.
By donating €2 or more at the Ko-Fi link below, you'll receive a digital download of the track, and 100% of the proceeds will be donated to The Sameer Project, a charity providing vital relief to families affected by the crisis.
https://www.instagram.com/thesameerproject/ Donate. Download. Make a difference: https://ko-fi.com/s/6a372d73f6
You can also listen here with links in the description too: https://youtu.be/tVd4-I4VOp4?si=6G7XdV4uSjFaOF-h Keep up to date on:
https://www.facebook.com/12GaugeOutrage n
New album from 12 Gauge Outrage.
Awards for Enniscorthy Comhaltas members
Congratulations to Enniscorthy Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (CCÉ) members who received awards at the recent All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Wexford.
Gradam na hÉigse – awarded to Niall Wall, Kay Keeley and Nóra Byrne Kavanagh. Gradam Seirbhíse – awarded to Seamus Coleman, Sean Óg Doyle and Michael Murphy.
Enniscorthy CCÉ acknowledges the work that all of these recipients have done for music, song and dance in the region over many decades, and in particular Sean Óg Doyle who was one of the founding members of the Enniscorthy CCÉ branch. The branch respects the time and dedication given by each of these awardees. Comhghairdeas daoibh. n
Enjoying the Minions’ visit to The Village at Wheelocks, 6th August 2025
Below:
A younger looking Mel Gibson stars
A Dream Come True for Maria Nolan
Recently I retired from a fifty-year working career and decided that now is my time to start ticking the boxes and fulfilling the dreams so when the opportunity presented itself to meet one of my all time idols I jumped at it.
Braveheart – what an iconic movie back in the day, we were all talking about it.
Made thirty years ago, this tale about the Scottish hero William Wallace was filmed mostly in Ireland and to celebrate the 30th anniversary the King John’s Summer Prom Festival in Trim, Co. Meath, invited some of the main actors to join them at the 30th Anniversary Commemoration at Trim Castle.
Only 200 people would be able to get up close and personal for autographs and photos on the day and I was determined to be one of them.
Although I knew full well that at 69 he wouldn’t have the flowing locks of Braveheart, Mel Gibson is still instantly recognisable despite the grey hair and beard, sitting in the centre of a long trestle table in a room at the Trim Castle Hotel signing a Braveheart poster and apparently conversing well with people.
Like a real groupie, I can hardly wait for my turn and even though we have been warned that we cannot touch him, he
reaches out his hand and shakes mine – what a thrill even thirty years on.
Me: ‘Mr. Gibson, I am so delighted to meet you, you are one of my all time favourite actors.’
Mel: ‘Why thank you, nice to meet you too.’
Me: ‘Have you ever thought of doing a movie about Ireland, you’ve done Scotland and America, and after all your people are from Ballinamuck.’
Mel: ‘Well somewhere around there.’
Me: ‘The Rebellion of 1798 would make a great movie and the last battle was at Ballinamuck.'
Mel smiles... my heart skips... I have visions of Vinegar Hill crawling with redcoats and rebels and American and Irish actors and cameramen and... but Mel doesn’t make me an answer.
I have to move on, the next person is waiting patiently to shake that hand.
Ah well... I have sown the seed, sure who knows, stranger things have happened!
– Maria Nolan n
Left and right: Maria Nolan meets Mel Gibson at Trim Castle for the 30th anniversary commemoration of the making there of the movie ‘Braveheart’.
in the iconic movie.
Culture Night in Co. Wexford
There are a number of free events taking place on Culture Night (19th September) around Enniscorthy – see page 56. In addition, the Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival is taking place from 18-21st September – see pages 54-55.
Elsewhere in Co. Wexford there’s lots happening also for Culture Night. Keep an eye on https://culturenight.ie/location/wexford/ for full details. n
Gardening for beginners course
If you’ve always wanted to grow your own but aren’t sure where to begin, then the Kilcannon Garden Centre ‘Gardening for Beginners’ course is the perfect place to start.
Join Eoin for a relaxed, practical, two-hour session covering the gardening essentials, with live demonstrations and plenty of helpful tips to get you growing confidently.
Course Details:
Dates: Saturday 13th & 27th September. Time: 2:00pm – 4:00pm. Cost: €30 per session. To book, message Eoin on WhatsApp: 087 225 9269. n
Tickets on sale soon for Enniscorthy Panto ‘Sleeping Beauty’
Enniscorthy Panto will stage Sleeping Beauty in the Astro Active Centre, Bellefield, Thursday 4th to Saturday 6th December 2025 at 7.30pm, with matinees on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th.
Tickets on sale soon. Check out social media: @enniscorthypanto or website https://enniscorthypanto.wordpress.com/ n
Recently as part of her retirement box-ticking exercise, MARIA NOLAN paid a visit to the wonderful and impressive Highclere Castle at Newbury, England.
Maria poses with the magnificent Highclere edifice in the background
To the manor born
Built in 1679, Highclere is the home of Lord and Lady Carnarvon who are still in residence in part of the Castle. Highclere Castle is better known as Downton Abbey from the iconic and much loved TV series that has been running successfully since 2010.
Created by Julian Fellowes, this period drama masterpiece aired for six series over fifty-two episodes, including five Christmas specials, with the third film soon to be released.
The extremely popular series depicts the lives of the Crawley family, Lords of Grantham, and their servants in the post-Edwardian era from the sinking of the Titanic to the outbreak of the First World War, the Spanish Flu, the Irish War of Independence and the Beer Hall Putsch.
I am, I have to admit, a period drama addict and Downton ticks all of the boxes for me.
Several years ago on a visit to Bath I tried to visit Highclere but it was too early in the season, the Castle only opens to the public from Easter onwards, however after sending a pleading email to the Castle I received a reply from Lady Carnarvon’s Secretary telling me that if I travelled to Beacon Hill I would get the iconic photograph of Highclere as seen on TV.
Which I did and I did.
But I have always dreamed of returning and this August I got the chance to fulfil that dream.
Coming down the sweeping avenue I felt like Lady Mary Crawley coming home – talk about to the manor born – I had brought the dress – a little 1920s number that I was determined to put on and get that coveted photograph on the fabulous staircase.
But much to my dismay there were signs everywhere, and I mean everywhere, saying No Photography.
Disappointed, I made the tour which takes you to a plethora of rooms exactly as they are in the series including Lady Mary’s, Lady Edith’s, and Lady Sibly’s bedrooms along with Lady Grantham’s, the dining room, the drawing room – all looking precisely as they do on TV with very pleasant staff on hand to answer any questions one might have about the history of the Castle or even TV anecdotes – a thoroughly enjoyable experience even without the photograph.
But I hadn’t come dress in hand all the way from Ireland to be thwarted so once outside, taking shelter behind that wonderful old tree that appears in all the outdoor shots, I threw the dress over my clothes and posed with the magnificent Highclere edifice in the background – not quite the shot I craved on the beautiful staircase – but it'll do.
Elaborately beautiful castle, gardens and walks, nice restaurant/cafe, background music, and no compulsion at all to leave at €21 per person, one could spend an entire day at Highclere soaking in the whole Downton Abbey experience. For fans of the TV series this trip is a a must see.
As you move through the Castle rooms at your own pace you can almost hear the familiar voices, especially the old Dowager the Countess of Grantham, actress extraordinaire Maggie Smith sadly no longer with us, taking the others to task with her fabulously witty quips in the drawing room and as you lean over the balcony to take a better look you almost expect Carson the Butler to take you gently but firmly by the elbow saying, ‘I’m afraid that isn’t allowed Madam’ and escort you down the elaborate staircase and out the front door, miffed and embarrassed. Magical. n
Loreto Secondary School, Wexford, Graduation Ball at Ferrycarraig Hotel, 19th August 2025.
Above left: Bredan Cahill and Katie Fortune.
Above centre: Jesse Sludds, Gabija Varnauskaite, Vicky Melech and Alex Duggan.
Below left: Tara Donegan. Below centre: Diarmaid Wall, Aileen Harpur, Kate Harpur and Sean Kehoe.
Above: Lucinda Martin and Nicholas Stancgyk.
Below: Cathy Nolan and Fionn Nolan.
Above left: Liam Bohan and Esha Harpur.
Above centre: Jo Wildes, Sophia Zipoli, and Alecia Whitty. Above right: Molly Moran and Garry Cullen.
‘10 little plays’ –a huge success
An ambitious undertaking here in Enniscorthy proved to be a huge success as Enniscorthy Theatre Company coordinated the writing of 11 plays by 11 locals, and the directing and performing of those by locals also. Many of the over 60 peope involved had never participated in drama in any capacity so huge credit is due to all involved in this remarkable achievement. All 11 plays were perfomed each night of a three-night, sold-out run in The Presentation Arts Cenrtre, Enniscorthy.
The 11 plays were:
How Can I Help You?
Written by Larry Dunne – Directed by Christine Quinn Cast: Anastasia Stafford D’Souza, Alisia Nic Pháidín, Natasha Brooks, Ryan McClean Devereux, Sam Doran.
The Single Sweetest Thing
Written by John Kelly – Directed by Paul O’Reilly Cast: Lillyanna Holohan, Michaela White, Anna Boyce, Paul Armstrong.
The Rabbit Hole
Written by Brendan Carthy – Directed by Pat Murphy Cast: Chris Larkin, Leona Eustace-Breen, Ella Ní Fhaolain, Niall Martin.
News & Gossip
Witten by Dan Walsh – Directed by Naoise O’Connor Cast: Lily Nolan, Lisa Redmond, Brendan Carthy.
Much Ado About Hurling
Written by Maria Nolan – Directed by Maeve Ennis Cast: Ava Duffy, Pat Murphy, Aine McDonald.
Mamy Takes a Trip
Written by Fintan Kelly – Directed by Sarah Kelly Cast: Caoimhe Murphy, Damien Murphy, Emma Moulds, Niamh Lawlor.
The Wake
Written by Niamh Crowhurst – Directed by Nikki Cogley Cast: John Kirwan, Sonja Bunker, Naoise O’Connor, Eanna O’Reilly, Leo Walsh.
Not Exactly
Written by C.M. Velde – Directed by Dick Donaghue Cast: Fergal Kelly, Catherine Ennis, Jack Cloke.
Paper Rock Scalpel
Written by Tony Bolger – Directed by Nick Di Raimondo Cast: Billy Stafford, Linda O’Brien, Maeve Ennis.
War From a Box
Written by Thomas Crofts – Directed by Leona Eustace-Breen Cast: Grace Boland, Tim Connaughton, Jennafer Boyd, Niall Holohan.
The (Not So) Sacred Circle
Written by Julie Fox – Directed by Roisin Barry Cast: Susan Anderson, Mary Kelly, Jennifer Kelly, Kate Breen, Sophie Hendrick, Isobelle Codd.
Enniscorthy Theatre Company Chairperson Fintan Kelly
thanked all involved and said, “This was a true celebration of community, creativity, and collaboration, and I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved togther.”
Given the huge success of this project, the Slaney News would not be surprised to see it become an annual event on the Enniscorthy drama calendar. n
and below: Some
Above
of the participants in the recent ‘10 Little Plays’ project at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy.
10 Little Plays – well actually it was 11, the brainchild of Enniscorthy Theatre Company, running over three nights to full houses at The Presentation Arts Centre, was another major success for the drama company at the heart of Enniscorthy.
Bringing over 70 people together to create a plethora of excellent 10-minute plays, this innovative concept received accolades in spades from the enthusiastic thespians in attendance, the general consensus being hugely favourable of the inspiring idea, and the only criticism I heard was that people would have liked an introduction to each piece of work announcing playwright, director, and actors.
The way the clever project was structured was that people were asked to put themselves forward as writers, directors, and actors then 10 writers selected were given a director and a number of actors each and asked to write a 10-minute play for them.
A daunting task, I will admit, for me as one of the writers who was given only 3 actors (some plays had 5/6).
When I sat down to write, I thought it would be an impossible assignment as my 3 actors were 2 females, 24 and 17 years old, and a male in his shall-we-say 50s, but I have to say it concentrated the mind and made me think outside the box and come up with an Enniscorthy farce on the Shakespearean classic Romeo and Juliet.
Not something I would ever have thought of doing without this design, so yes, as a writer I would say it pushed me to do something completely different.
The 11 plays were staged each night and to my surprise it worked remarkably well as I would have thought it might have been a better idea to split them but with minimal sets and very little time wasted between pieces all ran smoothly, a testament to all the directors and actors and backstage crew.
The level of talent, diversity, and creativity was remarkable depicting comedy, trauma, global and personal issues, and family conflicts, and actors, writers and directors are to be commended for the attention to detail and work ethic committed to this project in a very short space of time.
Well done one and all and Enniscorthy Theatre Company I presume will make this an annual event on the town’s dramatic calendar and perhaps even find a sponsor who might consider awarding Best Play, Best Director, Best Actor, Supporting Actor, etc.
– Maria Nolan
Photos on this page: Some of the participants and attendees at the recent ‘10 Little Plays’ project at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy. All Pics: Maria Nolan.
An invitation to Marja’s creative space
Artist Marja van Kampen invites you to come and meet her and explore her world at her creative space at the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, during the upcoming Enniscorthy Arts and Culture Festival, 19-21 September, Friday 5-8pm, Saturday & Sunday 12-5pm.
Marja’s vibrant paintings draw inspiration from her childhood memories and travels abroad. Her work often features elements of landscapes, local, foreign and imagined, brought to life through enlarged forms, distorted proportions and a disregard for traditional perspective. The result is a playful imagery that gives her work a light-hearted quality.
Marja is originally from The Netherlands and lives in Enniscorthy. She was awarded ‘Most Creative Abstract Artist’ in the Irish Enterprise Award 2024.
Recent exhibitions include ‘Trio’, a three persons show at The Kenny Gallery, Galway, Lá Fhéile Bríde 2025, Pulchri Studios, The Hague, The Netherlands, in partnership with the Embassy of Ireland and ‘Meanderings of a Colourful Mind’, a three persons touring exhibition in Ireland and The Netherlands.
Her work is in the collections of the Arts Council of Ireland, Office of Public Works, and Áras an Uachteráin, the residence of the President of Ireland. n
Plein air painting in Enniscorthy
The South East Plein Air painting group will be in Enniscorthy painting around the town on Sunday 21st September as part of the Enniscorthy Arts and Culture Festival which runs from 18-21st September.
Artists invited to help Gaza fundraiser Write By The Sea
Write By The Sea 2025 is shaping up to be a huge celebration and all are invited.
Join in at Kilmore Quay from 26–28 September for an unforgettable weekend marking ten years.
The incredible line-up features: Colum McCann, Claire Keegan, Joseph O’Connor, Marian Keyes, John Banville, Eimear McBride, Donal Ryan, Kit de Waal, Dermot Bolger, Wendy Erskine, Sarah Moss, and many more. n
Taking a well deserved bow
Some of those involved in the recent ‘10 Little Plays’ project at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy.
Pic: Maria Nolan
AN CIÚNAS / THE SILENCE
A SOLO EXHIBITION BY MARIANNE KEATING – WEXFORD ARTS CENTRE
26TH AUGUST – 1ST OCTOBER 2025
Wexford Arts Centre is pleased to present An Ciúnas / The Silence, a solo exhibition by artist Marianne Keating. The exhibition will run in the lower and upper galleries from Tuesday, 26th August, to Wednesday, 1st October, 2025.
Marianne Keating is a London-based Irish artist and researcher whose practice examines intersecting and overlooked narratives of Irish emigration to the Caribbean, particularly Jamaica, where the Irish were recruited as a new labour force after the abolition of enslavement. Keating’s multidisciplinary film installations combine a range of archival materials, found footage, newly shot footage, text, and sound.
An Ciúnas / The Silence traces multiple trajectories of migration from Ireland to both Jamaica and Britain from the period preceding the Great Famine of 1845–52 to the present day. It identifies catalytic moments in the history of the British Empire through the lenses of Ireland and Jamaica to illuminate how events from the past inform current politics and society. The work establishes a radical account of Ireland’s and
Jamaica’s fights for self-determination, the social conditions of Ireland in the nineteenth century and today, the evolution of the Jamaican political system, and the power structures at play in both countries before and after independence.
An Ciúnas / The Silence is presented as a multichannel film installation and collages a myriad of moving and still images (often manipulated), either drawn from or referencing public records, online videos and photographs, and newspaper articles. The montage of fragmentary episodes moves back and forth in time and incorporates various creative modes, including textual graphics and audio effects. The overlaying of information, visuals, and sonic outputs amplifies the depicted perspectives, and the work’s presentation as a continuous loop undermines typical storytelling and the notion of a single official, dominant narrative.
An Ciúnas / The Silence was initially presented by The Showroom, London, in 2023-24. The Irish tour of the work is initiated and organised by Sirius Arts Centre, Cobh, County Cork, and in-
cludes The Model in Sligo, Rua Red in Dublin, Limerick City Gallery of Art, and Wexford Arts Centre. The production of An Ciúnas / The Silence and its Irish tour are supported by The Arts Council.
The presentation of An Ciúnas / The Silence is curated by Miguel Amado, Director of Sirius Arts Centre, and the tour is managed by producer Rayne Booth.
An Ciúnas / The Silence will run at Wexford Arts Centre from Tuesday, 26th August, to Wednesday, 1st October, 2025.
Wexford Arts Centre is supported by the Arts Council and Wexford County Council.
Gallery hours:
Tuesday-Friday from 10am-5pm and Saturday from 10am-4pm.
For further information on An Ciúnas / The Silence or artist Marianne Keating: Contact Catherine Bowe –Curator, Wexford Arts Centre, Cornmarket, Wexford, Tel: (053) 91 23764 or E: catherine@wexfordartscentre.ie n
Calling all writers!
IRELAND’S OWN – a literary institution for over 120 years – has announced details of its 2025 Writing Competitions. Entrants are invited to compete for €2,450 in gift-card prizes.
OPEN SHORT STORY SECTION
The Open Short Story section (2,000 words maximum) is open to all and carries a prize fund of €1,000 gift cards –a first prize of €600; second prize of €200, and two runners-up prizes of €100.
BEGINNERS’ SHORT STORY SECTION
The Beginners’ Short Story section is restricted to those who have never had a short story published before. It carries a first prize of €300 and three runners-up prizes of €100. Entries for both short story sections should be of approx. 2,000 words, reflect the ethos of Ireland’s Own and be of a non-experimental nature.
Occasionally, stories may need some slight adjustments to comply with Ireland's Own requirements; it reserves the right to make such changes. Entry in the competitions is deemed an acceptance of this condition.
MEMORIES SECTION
For the Memories Section, entrants are asked to tell of some special moment or event in not more than 800 words. It could be about school, holidays, falling in love, getting married, emigrating, a special person you have known, etc. This section carries a first prize of €200 and four runners-up prizes of €100.
THE FRANK MCDONALD PRIZE
In memory of Frank McDonald (12/4/1932 to 04/05/2020).
Frank McDonald was born in Dublin in 1932. He was an avid reader and a short story writer throughout his life, and was a regular contributor to Ireland’s Own magazine. His family has very generously donated a €250 prize which will be awarded to a piece of writing entered in the competition that stands out and leaves a lasting impression on the judges.
HOW TO ENTER
Please note that entries will only be accepted through the website www.irelandsown.ie
All the instructions you need to submit your entry and pay the entry fee by card will be posted there on the home page.
In all three sections, entries should be the original and unpublished work of the sender, and should be typed with double spacing. Any number of entries may be submitted, individually, but each story must be accompanied by a €10 (£8 Stg) fee, paid by card via the website www.irelandsown.ie
Entries must be submitted via the website; make sure you include your own name and address on each entry, and also your phone number and email address to facilitate easy contact.
The results will appear in the 2026 New Year Annual. The winning entries will be published in the Winning Writers Annual next May. No entry form is needed; the decision of the judges is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Entrants should retain copies of their work as manuscripts will not be returned.
Which section each entry is intended for should be CLEARLY MARKED on your entry where you enter your name and address.
Closing date is Monday, September 29th, 2025. n
Experience ‘Joy’ at new exhibition
ARTWORK(A6Postcard) PRINTPROOF-V1 13/08/25
In this body of work, Cork based visual artist Ben Reilly transforms the Courthouse Gallery in Tinahely into an immersive sculptural forest-like landscape. Welded and carved limbs stretching skyward and a floating life raft swaying through the gallery all of which are responding to the gallery’s height and natural light.
Drawing from beach-combing excursions around the coastal
landscape of West Cork, Reilly integrates found and foraged materials, reflecting themes of reuse and ecological connection. His process – part instinct, part experimentation – blurs the line between control and spontaneity. Visitors can expect etchings and large-scale sculptures that echo nature’s joy of movement and form, shaped through casting, carving, welding and intuitive construction. This evolving, floating forest invites reflection on landscape, memory, and the unseen logic of making. n
‘Brooklyn’ explored at Enniscorthy Library Words and pics by Maria Nolan
Recently I had the distinct pleasure of being present at Enniscorthy Library for a most informative and insightful talk about Colm Toibin’s Brooklyn by Dr. Howard Keeley, director of the Centre for Irish Research and Teaching, at Georgia Southern University, USA.
The Enniscorthy Library audience was made up of members of a Belgium Book Club who were visiting Enniscorthy because of Brooklyn and had just done a tour of the town with Cathy Keane of Heritage Tours Wexford.
Dr. Keeley began his talk by saying how interesting it was that Brooklyn was written in 2008 just when the Celtic Tiger was beginning to lose its roar, precipitating the exodus of Irish people once again from our shores similar to the 1950s era where Brooklyn is set.
Dr. Keeley pointed out that the main character Eilis is anxious to find ‘an elsewhere’ to get away from Ireland just like those who went before and after her, and find an escape.
He went on to talk about names and placenames suggesting that Fr. Flood wasn’t just a random name but would have had biblical connotations of flood change – the before and after concept. He spoke of swimsuits and how clothes can re-invent you and bring you elsewhere which led some of the local members of the audience including myself to reminisce about the ‘parcels from America’ that were very much part of 1950s Enniscorthy and how the receivers of same would be the envy of all when they appeared in their American clothes that were so very different from
anything that was available here in town
It was interesting that I was asked by the Belgium Book Club ladies, having known and grown up with Colm Toibin, if I had been annoyed or insulted by the way Colm portrayed 1950s Enniscorthy to which I replied, ‘Absolutely not, Colm got it exactly right, Brooklyn is a mirror image of what the town was like at the time.’
My sincere thanks to Dr. Keeley for his insightful talk which posed many new ways of looking at Brooklyn that I had not already been aware of possibly due to my own closeness to its landscape and local essence.
Thoroughly enjoyed this event that demonstrates the value of Book Clubs in providing a variety of ways of interpreting and appreciating a novel. n
Dr. Howard Keeley with Cathy Keane.
Dr. Howard Keeley with Maria Nolan.
Local film wins London award
WELL DONE TO LOCAL MAN MICHAEL CLOKE AND ALL THE TEAM INVOLVED IN THE NOW AWARD-WINNING SHORT MOVIE ‘SIDE LINES’. WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY MICHAEL
PRODUCED BY:
CLOKE.
DONNA MARIE SLUDDS. DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY: OISIN DALY CARNEY.
Following its recent success at the London Indie Film Festival, a delighted writer and director, Michael Cloke, was lavish in his praise for the team behind the movie: “As we wrap up this incredible journey of creating Side Lines, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you. From the first day on set to the final cut, your talent, dedication, and passion have been nothing short of inspiring. Whether you were behind the camera, in front of it, managing logistics, or simply lending a helping hand, your contribution made this film possible.
Michael spoke in relation to the cast and crew: “To the cast: Thank you for breathing life into these characters and giving them depth, heart, and authenticity. To the crew: your tireless work behind the scenes kept everything running smoothly. You turned challenges into solutions and chaos into creativity.”
“To our location sponsors and helpers: your generosity, encouragement, and belief in this project meant the world to us. You helped us push through long days, tight schedules, and
unpredictable weather with smiles and determination.
Michael continued: “This film is more than just a story, it’s a testament to what can happen when passionate people come together with a shared vision. I’m proud of what we’ve created, and even prouder to have done it with all of you.
“Looking forward to celebrating with you at the upcoming screening and to many more creative adventures ahead.” n
ooted in exford
September arrives with a gentle shift in the garden, the air carrying a little more crispness and the evenings drawing in earlier. After the busyness of summer harvesting, this is a month to take stock, tidy up, and prepare the soil for the colder months ahead. While it can be tempting to sit back after the main crops have been gathered, September is full of opportunities that will shape the health and productivity of your garden well into autumn and winter.
One of the most valuable jobs at this time of year is refreshing the beds. Begin by pulling out crops that have finished and clearing away any fallen leaves or plant debris. This not only makes your garden look neater but also helps to stop pests and diseases from overwintering in the soil. Any healthy material can be chopped up and added to the compost heap, returning nutrients back into circulation for future use.
With the beds cleared, enrich the soil by working in compost or well-rotted manure. A thin
Mark Cooke invites you to grow along with him.
The Slaney News is delighted to have Enniscorthy man, Mark Cooke, on board as a columnist. Mark has a huge 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.
layer gently forked into the top few inches will give the soil a boost of fertility and encourage healthy microbial life. If you have beds you won’t be using, you might cover them with a thick mulch of leaves or even a temporary weed membrane. This protects the soil from heavy rain and erosion, making spring planting much easier.
Mulching deserves special attention in September. A good layer of organic matter around your plants will help retain moisture, regulate the temperature of the soil, and keep weeds from establishing themselves. As the weather cools, it also acts as a blanket for the roots, creating more stable conditions. Materials such as straw, shredded leaves, and homemade compost work beautifully, and as they break down, they’ll continue to feed the soil beneath. Be careful not to pile mulch right up against the stems, as this can encourage rot.
Of course, September isn’t just about tidying up and preparing; it’s also a chance to keep growing. Ireland’s climate
allows for a surprising number of crops to be sown now that will happily withstand cooler conditions. Kale is a firm favourite for this time of year, robust and full of nutrients, with varieties ranging from curly to dark lacinato. It thrives in cooler temperatures and, if looked after, will provide leaves right through the winter.
Spinach is another hardy green worth planting now. With consistent moisture and a little protection, you can keep picking fresh leaves well into the colder months. Swiss chard also deserves a spot in the September garden. Not only is it a reliable crop, but its colourful stems bring a splash of brightness as the rest of the garden begins to fade.
For quick rewards, radishes are ideal. They germinate quickly and can be ready to pull within just a few weeks, adding a peppery crunch to autumn salads. Cold-tolerant lettuces, such as butterhead and romaine, can also be sown now. With the help of a simple row cover, they’ll last even longer into the season.
Garlic, too, belongs on the
September to-do list. Plant individual cloves in a sunny, well-drained spot, and they’ll quietly establish roots before winter arrives. By the following summer, you’ll be rewarded with plump bulbs that are full of flavour.
September, then, is not an ending but a bridge between two seasons. It’s a time for closing one chapter of the garden and beginning another. By clearing, mulching, feeding, and planting, you set the stage for months of productivity ahead. There’s great satisfaction in knowing that while the days shorten and the weather turns, the garden continues to work quietly beneath the surface.
For more glimpses into my own autumn garden, along with plenty of tips and the occasional misstep, you can find me on Instagram @rootedinwexford. Together we can continue to share the rhythm of the seasons and keep our gardens thriving no matter the time of year. n
Wexford food producer wins major awards
Wexford Home Preserves, New Ross, is celebrating a major win last month after being awarded a coveted 3-star accolade at the 2025 Great Taste Awards – the highest honour in the world’s most trusted international food and drink accreditation scheme – for its handmade Blackcurrant Jam.
In addition, they won two 2-star Great Taste Awards for their Sicilian Clementine Marmalade and 2 stars for their No Added Sugar Blackcurrant Jam, and 1 star Great Taste Award for their Raspberry Jam, for their Pink Grapefruit Marmalade and for their Irish Beetroot Relish.
Wexford Home Preserves makes products for Dunnes Stores Simply Better range too. Their Simply Better Handmade Seville Marmalade has been awarded 2 gold stars and their Simply Better Irish Blackberry Preserve has been awarded 1 star.
This year, 14,340 entries from 110 countries were blind-tasted by expert panels of chefs, buyers, food writers and retailers. It is difficult enough to win 1 Great Taste star but fewer than 2% of all entries were awarded the top honour of 3 stars, making this win an exceptional achievement for the small, family-run business.
This is not the first time Wexford Home Preserves has hit the top tier at Great Taste – it is now the fourth time the company has received a 3-star rating in its history, cementing its reputation as one of Ireland’s most respected artisan producers.
“We’re absolutely thrilled,” said Tom and Laura Sinnott, owners of Wexford Home Preserves. “This award is a huge recognition of the care, craft and quality that goes into everything we make. It’s a real
honour to stand out at such a prestigious level.”
Made using only natural ingredients and no artificial preservatives or additives, the award-winning Blackcurrant Jam is crafted in small batches by hand in the company’s kitchen in New Ross, Co. Wexford.
Wexford Home Preserves is best known for producing authentic, traditional preserves with uncompromising quality and flavour –a fact now reinforced by the highest recognition from Great Taste.
Judges’ comments on Wexford Home Preserves Blackcurrant Jam included, “It packs a punch” and “A piece of magic in a jar”. If you’d like to experience some of this magic yourself, all of these award-winning products are available to order now via the Wexford Home Preserves online shop at www.wexfordhomepreserves.ie n
The aim of this toolkit is to support Community/Voluntary and Tidy Town groups in developing a food waste reduction programme for towns and villages.
Food waste is a major global issue, but communities always have the power to make a difference. This food waste reduction toolkit is designed to be used by community groups of all types who are keen to tackle this important environmental and social justice issue and to deepen their community’s connection to the land.
Details of the 'Waste Not, Want Not' toolkit and further resources can be found on the Voice Ireland website at: https://www.voiceireland.org/wnwn/toolkit n
Enniscorthy’s Kathy in national brown bread final
Enniscorthy woman Kathy Bolger (pictured) has been announced as one of eight finalists in the National Brown Bread Baking Competition supported by Euronics in association with the National Ploughing Association and the Irish Country Women’s Association.
The semi-finals will take place at the National Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Tullamore, on the 16th and 17th September with the final on the afternoon of the 18th September.
Speaking on her achievement, Kathy Bolger said, "I'm beyond excited to represent my Wexford I.C.A. Federation in the National Brown Bread Baking Competition semi-finals, as I love to attend the ploughing yearly and I am thrilled to have been chosen to take part in such a prestigious competition.”
The winner will receive a cash prize of €5,000 and a NEFF Slide & Hide oven, and three finalists will win a €500 Euronics gift card. n
From Plate to Planet
Hospitality professionals across the South East are invited to a dynamic free seminar focused on tackling one of the industry’s most pressing challenges: food waste.
This event will explore how reducing waste can unlock significant cost savings, improve staff efficiency, and streamline kitchen operations — all while contributing to a more sustainable food system.
There is an amazing line-up guaranteed to inform and inspire attendees such as multi-award-winning Chef Conor Spacey; Michelin Star Chef Enda McEvoy; Climate Conscious Chef Ali Honour; and Food on the Edge Ambassador and Chef Janice Casey Bracken. Food policy experts Ruth Hegarty and Colum Gibson will explore legislative challenges that are currently affecting the industry.
VOICE Ireland, who are the NGO expert
in Ireland on waste reduction and circular economy, will be represented by Colin O'Byrne, while key account manager for Positive Carbon Kate Barlow will guide attendees through new innovations, including AI sensor technology.
Date: Tuesday, 7th October, 2025.
Time: Registration 8.30am / Prompt Start 9am / Lunch 1pm / End 2.30pm. Venue: Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Carlow. Booking details and further information available at: www.localenterprise.ie/Carlow/Training-Events/Online-Bookings n
Lots on at the Allotments
We are grateful as always to Gillian O’Neill, Secretary at Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA), for keeping us updated with all the news and photos from this multi-awardwinning facility in Enniscorthy...
Our growing season is now coming to an end in the allotment and what a growing season it was. It was the best one since the very first when the gates opened in April 2021, the weather was just amazing. That’s not to say we didn’t come across the usual obstacles that come with organic, pesticide-free growing, our little slug friends were very busy along with others like wire worm. We are now enjoying harvesting the last of our delicious organic produce and preparing our gardens for the cooler months.
We were delighted Michael Devereux had the opportunity to be interviewed last month by Anna Geary on RTE Radio 1. Michael got to share what allotment life is all about for us and talk about the wonderful holistic inclusive space we have here.
The first of our 4-week Nature Therapy courses took place last month with the absolutely fabu-
Three photos: The groups working on the Creative Places art project. Fourth photo: The Nature Therapy course.
September is a good month to plant spring bulbs such as daffodils.
Continue harvesting vegetables and late summer fruit like apples and pears.
You can plant some fast growing winter vegetables such as spinach, lettuce, rocket, radishes and pak choi and sow some broad beans, peas, kale and winter cabbage, plant some onion and garlic sets for later harvests.
Green manure seeds can be sown on bare vegetable plots to ensure good soil coverage and soil life over the winter months.
Keep squash, courgettes and pumpkins up off the ground to keep them dry and prevent rotting.
Ensure regular watering continues on greenhouse plants as fruits & vegetables develop.
Keep greenhouse door closed in evenings and night to conserve heat.
Clean out used pots & trays in the greenhouse and wash with hot water to prevent the spread of diseases.
ECA
Gardening Tips...
lous Deirdre Cummins. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed this holistic approach to health which used direct interaction with the outdoors and nature to promote mental, emotional, and physical well being. The second 4-week Nature Therapy course is running now and finishes at the end of the month. This will be a wrap then on all our free workshops covered under the Reach Grant until next year hopefully.
We have the launch of our mosaics designed and led by Artist Helen McLean and created in collaboration with the local community, on Sunday 7th September at 3pm in the allotments. It will be opened by Cathaoirleach Barbara-Anne Murphy, everyone is welcome to attend. A huge thanks to the sponsors that made this fabulous project possible – Wexford WWETB and Creative Ireland. Artist Helen McLean wrote a lovely piece about the project, in which she remembers those who helped
out with this amazing project and are no longer with us – Eamonn Sheridan a gentleman and our dear friend Paul Keane who will never be forgotten here in the allotments.
We are very excited to say that we are hosting Culture Night here again on Friday 19th September from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. There will be dancing, music, face painting, quizzes and much much more. There will also be a variety of international cuisine for all to enjoy. Everyone is welcome to come along to this inclusive free event. It promises to be another great night in the allotments.
Work is now well under way for the completion of the mural at the back of the shed as part of our oak tree art project funded by Creative Places. Both groups, KITE and our Catch Up Monday group, are enjoying getting their creative juices flowing. n
Members of the Wexford Food Producers Network with the Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Joe Sullivan and other interested parties at the artisan food hall during the recent Fleadh Cheoil in Wexford. Pic: Mary Browne.
Great week for Wexford food producers
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD officially opened the ‘Wexford Fleadh Artisan Food Hall’ as one of the highlights of the 2025 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann on 7th August 2025 at the Wexford Presbyterian Church on Anne Street, Wexford.
Speaking at the event, Minister James Browne TD spoke about the importance of Wexford food production as a key driver to the local economy.
Minister Browne acknowledged Wexford County Council and Local Enterprise Office Wexford for their role in supporting the growth of the food production sector
in Wexford. The Minister congratulated the Wexford Food Producers Network for hosting this bespoke event again this year, which he said was a wonderful showcase of Wexford’s finest artisan-produced food to the huge number of visitors that have come from across the island of Ireland and overseas to the 2025 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford.
Before declaring the event officially open, Minister Browne further recognised the achievements of Wexford Food Producers with their landslide success at the 2024 Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards bringing home thirty-two awards last year for the Model County.
Other guest speakers at the launch included An Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr Joe Sullivan, Lara McCann, FBD Insurance, and Chairperson Paul Kehoe.
In his welcome address, Chairperson of the Wexford Food Producers Network Paul Kehoe said: ‘We could not have
achieved this without the continued support of Wexford County Council and Wexford Local Enterprise Office. We would like to thank Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe, Director of Services Elizabeth Hore, and Head of Enterprise & Economic Development Breege Cosgrave, Wexford Co. Council, for their continued support of our organisation. We would like to thank Reverend David Curran and Graham Patterson from the Wexford Presbyterian Church for their partnership and support.’
Later in the week the Tánaiste Simon Harris TD was a welcome visitor to the Food Hall in the company of Senator Cathal Byrne.
Presentation to Minister James Browne TD.
Presentation to Cllr BarbaraAnne Murphy.
Pic: Mary Browne.
Pic: Mary Browne.
The Wexford Food Producers Network provides a centralised member-led and member-representative organisation with a core remit to promote and support the business of Wexford food. The organisation has over fifty members who are Wexford-based sole traders, SMEs and large companies. Their continued aim is to support Wexford food producers, to build a sustainable food industry, and to contribute significantly to the Irish economy on a local, regional, national, and international level through the export markets.
For further information please visit www.wexfordfoodfamily.com n
Above:
The Wexford Food Producers Network
Chairperson Paul Kehoe presenting a Wexford Artisan Food Hamper to An Tanaiste Simon Harris at the Wexford Fleadh Artisan Food Hall. L-R: Stacey Williams, Event Director, Paul Kehoe, Chairperson, The Wexford Food Producers Network, Senator Cathal Byrne, Anna Dunne, Killowen Farm, Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Unit, Wexford County Council. Photo: Mary Browne.
Right:
An Tanaiste Simon Harris meeting exhibitors Killowen Farm at the Wexford Fleadh Artisan Food Hall. L-R: Anna Dunne, Killowen Farm, An Tanaiste Simon Harris, Martha Dunne, Killowen Farm, Senator Cathal Byrne, and Chairperson Paul Kehoe, The Wexford Food Producers Network. Photo: Mary Browne.
Best of luck Seanie
Congratulations to Seanie O’Gorman on opening his new addition to McCauley Park in Enniscorthy. Seanie will be serving sandwiches and açai bowls along with excellent beverages at this outlet and the club would like to wish him every success.
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
TUNA PESTO ROLLS
Ingredients to make 20 rolls:
2 x 185g jars of Shines tuna
1 x 150g tin of tomato purée
2 eggs
1 tbsp double cream
1 tbsp red or green pesto
2 sheet of readyrolled puff pastry
1 egg yolk
Achill Island sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan).
Line a baking tray with non-stick baking paper.
https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted
Put the tuna, tomato purée, eggs, cream and pesto in a food processor. Season with salt and pepper, then blitz to a smooth paste.
Unroll the pastry, then spread it all over with the tuna mixture.
Starting with the long edge that’s closest to you, roll it up tightly, like a Swiss roll.
Whisk the egg yolk in a small bowl, then brush the top of the pastry with it.
Cut into 5cm pieces and put on the lined tray, seam side down. Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, until golden. These are delicious served hot or cold. n
Caitriona Barron
Cake business opens in Enniscorthy
Cake Master is all about quality baking supplies and making cake decorating fun, creative, and accessible. Its new premises in Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, brings together top-quality products so whether you’re a professional baker or just baking at home, Cake Master gives you the ingredients and inspiration to turn every cake into something special.
The new premises contains the Cake Master offices and stock – it is not a retail shop. So buyers need to go online at www.cakemaster.ie, order their requirements, and choose to pick up from the premises or opt for delivery via DPD couriers.
The Slaney News sat down recently with Enniscorthy residents and co-owners of Cake Master, Greg and Mihaela Dydynski, to find out more...
Slaney News: Can you tell us a bit about Cake Master?
Answer: Cake Master is a specialty shop dedicated to cake decorating and baking. We provide high-quality products – from professional tools and food colours to modelling pastes, sprinkles, and cake drips. Whether you’re a professional baker or a home enthusiast, we want to make decorating cakes easier, more creative, and more enjoyable.
Slaney News: How did the idea for Cake Master come about?
Answer: We started Cake Master out of
Baking dreams into reality: Cake Master opens in Enniscorthy.
our shared passion for baking. We saw that many bakers struggled to find goodquality decorating supplies in one place. So, we decided to bring together trusted brands like PME, Saracino, Callebaut and others, and create a hub where bakers can find everything they need.
Slaney News: What makes Cake Master different from other suppliers?
Answer: What sets us apart is our focus on both quality and support. We don’t just sell products – we guide bakers on how to use them, and we carefully select items that professionals trust. Our sprinkles collection, for example, is full of colours, shapes, and textures you won’t find everywhere. From elegant metallics to playful mixes, they’re perfect for giving cakes that ‘wow’ factor.
Slaney News: What are your most popular products?
Answer: Food colours and modelling pastes are always in high demand because they allow for creativity. PME sprays, Saracino pastes, and decorative sprinkles are among our best-sellers. Sprinkles are especially loved because they’re such an easy way to transform a cake – just a handful can turn a simple bake into a showpiece. Customers also love our wide range of cake drips – perfect for adding that final touch.
Slaney News: How do you see Cake Master growing in the future?
Answer: Our goal is to become a real hub for bakers – not just a shop. We want to expand our product range, continue introducing international brands, and eventually host workshops and events where people can learn new decorating techniques. Cake Master isn’t just about products, it’s about building a community.
Slaney News: What message would you like to send to our readers?
Answer: We want bakers to know they’re not alone. Whether you’re just starting or you’ve been baking for years, Cake Master is here to inspire you and give you the tools to create something amazing. Even something as simple as a sprinkle mix can bring joy and personality to a cake. Every cake tells a story, and we’re proud to be part of that story.
www.cakemaster.ie n
Early bird tickets now available!
NWED Turns 20!
Are you a female entrepreneur in County Wexford ready to turn ambition into action? Don’t miss this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Event: Making It Happen.
Date: Thursday 16th October 2025.
Time: 8.30am – 2.00pm.
Location: Talbot Hotel Wexford.
Early Bird Price: €25 (until 5th September), Standard price €30.
What’s in store:
Inspiring Keynote by Ruth Larkin – Larkin Consultancy.
Power-packed Panel featuring Wexford’s top female founders.
Hosted by Shona Lyons – Beat FM.
Unmissable networking and actionable insights.
Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, this is your space to learn, connect, and grow.
Secure your spot now and Make It Happen : https://tinyurl.com/yntm474m n
National Women's Enterprise Day (NWED) celebrates female entrepreneurs’ success and inspires female start-ups. This year, 16th October, is the 20th anniversary of this great national event. The Wexford Local Enterprise Office will, as always, be very active around this occasion so keep an eye on https://www.facebook.com/LocalEnterpriseOfficeWexford for more details as they emerge.
County Wexford Chamber Golf Classic
County Wexford Chamber's Annual Golf Classic 2025 returns on Friday, September 5th, at New Ross Golf Club. This is an ideal occasion to thank clients or treat your team in an enjoyable, relaxed, sporting, and social outing where participants' enjoyment is the priority.
Entry fee includes golfing, networking, excellent food, goodie bags, and prizes on the day.
Tee time: 10am-2pm.
Format for the Day: Team of four Combi Team event, with the two best scores counting on each hole.
Prizes for First Place, Nearest the Pin, Men's & Women's Longest Drive.
Are you ready to take your new product or service to new markets? Then get ready for take off with the new Market Explorer Grant. Providing a grant of up to €10,000 for market research, in-market consultancy and industry events, this can help bring your business to new heights! For more information contact one of the Local Enterprise Office Wexford team today: Annette Rowsome or Jill Kelleher, or visit LEO’s website for more information: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/ n
Worried about new tariffs?
Here’s How LEO Wexford Can Help Your Business
Uncertain about how new tariffs will impact your small business? Your Local Enterprise Office Wexford is here to support you with expert advice and tailored programmes to help you navigate these challenges.
Get Exporting – Learn how to successfully export your goods and services. ✅ Market Explorer Grant – Funding to help you explore and expand into new markets.
Export Business Advisor – Get one-on-one guidance from an expert in international trade.
Local Enterprise Office Wexford is there to help your business thrive. Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie. Tel: 053 9196020. n
IDA visit to County Wexford
L-R: Malcolm Byrne TD, Brian McGee (Regional Manager, IDA), Eva Walsh (Regional Executive, IDA), Conor Robinson (President, County Wexford Chamber), Ray O’Connor (Head of Regional & Enterprise Development, IDA), Paula Roche (CEO, County Wexford Chamber), Lorcan Kinsella (Director, County Wexford Chamber), and Ed Murphy (Director, County Wexford Chamber).
County Wexford Chamber was delighted to welcome a team from IDA Ireland to County Wexford last month.
With 23 IDA client companies already based here and employing over 3,590 people, foreign direct investment (FDI) plays a vital role in our county’s economic success.
Last month’s meeting with IDA representatives was an important opportunity to
discuss what’s in the pipeline, the challenges Co. Wexford faces in attracting further FDI, and how the Chamber and the IDA can work together to unlock future growth.
Unsurprisingly, attendees at the meeting were aligned on the strategic importance of two key assets:
The completion of the N11 motorway which will significantly reduce travel time from Dublin Airport.
The development of the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Hub at Rosslare Europort – a gamechanger in attracting energy companies to this region.
County Wexford Chamber thanks Ray O’Connor, Brian McGee, and Eva Walsh from IDA Ireland for the open and constructive conversation and looks forward to continuing collaboration to strengthen Wexford’s position as a hub for investment and innovation. n
Ferry company scaling up at Rosslare
Brittany Ferries is scaling up its Rosslare-Cherbourg service to meet growing demand following a competitor’s exit.
Brittany Ferries has confirmed it will step in to fill the gap left by a competitor’s withdrawal from the Rosslare Cherbourg ferry route. The company, which is based in Cork and Rosslare, will increase both capacity and frequency of sailings departing Rosslare Europort from the end of September.
Departures will rise from five to seven every week. This means a daily Brittany Ferries departure from Rosslare Europort, starting October 2025. n
Retail growth event in Gorey
Retailers, are you ready to futureproof your business? Join a Strategic Retail Masterclass in Gorey for a powerful full-day workshop focused on strategy, innovation, and success in today’s retail landscape.
Date: 19th September 2025.
Time: 09:00 – 16:00.
Location: The Hatch Lab, M11 Business Campus, Gorey, Y25A8H2.
Cost: €30.
Gain expert insights into:
Strategic retail planning
Customer experience
Trends shaping retail in 2025
Driving footfall and sales
Spaces are limited so book now to secure your spot:
https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/Training-Events/Online-Bookings/Strategic-Retail-Masterclass-Gorey .html n
Simplify Your Business Journey with the National Enterprise Hub (NEH)!
Finding the right support to start or grow your business shouldn't be complicated. The National Enterprise Hub offers a streamlined solution, consolidating over 250 essential resources – from grants and funding to training and expert guidance –on to one intuitive website. Whatever your business stage, NEH provides the resources you need to thrive. Discover more at www.neh.gov.ie or contact NEH for tailored assistance and further details. Your business growth starts here! Proudly supported by the Government of Ireland. n
O’Connell Marketing celebrations
O’Connell Marketing (OCM), based in Bunclody, is a leading marketing agency in the South East of Ireland. Recently, the company took time out to celebrate key milestones for three of its team members: Karen Cloke (Marketing & Communications Manager), Caroline Doyle (Marketing & Digital Content Executive), and Margaret Deacon (Accounts Assistant).
Recognising five years of excellent team work, client management, and exceptional campaign delivery, Jean O’Connell proudly awarded Karen, Caroline, and Margaret with OCM branded anniversary awards at a team dinner at ShaRoe Bistro, Clonegal.
O’Connell Marketing Founder and Managing Director Jean O’Connell said: “I am delighted to take the time to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of three of our dynamic team members who always go above and beyond, embodying our commitment to excellence and client success. Their contributions are invaluable, and this recognition is testament to their passion and unwavering commitment to our values."
Additionally, O’Connell Marketing would like to thank student intern Leo Walsh for his six months of hard work for the team.
A go-getter, Leo’s many strengths include his strong communications skills, adaptability and creativity across the team's range of clients. The team was sad to see him go, but wished him all the best as he completes his studies.
Excitingly, OCM has also been announced as the Marketing & PR agency of choice for Samhain Festival of Food & Culture. Back for its 7th year, the festival celebrates the best of Irish food and welcomes a wide range of food producers from each corner of Ireland from 6-9th November 2025. It is part of Tourism Ireland Home of Halloween International Campaign.
The team at O’Connell Marketing.
In addition to the Samhain Festival, OCM is working on delivering the PR & Marketing Campaign for the Home of Halloween, a Fáilte Ireland development scheme, as well as
managing the PEMA Autumn Meeting 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
OCM’s client portfolio includes Kilkenny Tourism, Irelandhotels.com, Go Anywhere Gift Card (Irish Hotels Federation), PEMA (Port Equipment Manufacturers Association), Discover Kerry, Highbank Orchards, Killeen Castle, and Kilmore Quay Resort Hotel Development.
OCM’s diverse work sees them manage and deliver integrated marketing campaigns for each client, spanning social media, website management and SEO, blog content, Google and Meta Ad management, PR and display advertising.
For more information, visit OConnellMarketing.ie n
Pinergy is now Wexford GAA's official energy partner
Pinergy, the leading energy transition company, is proud to announce with Wexford GAA that it is the county’s new Official Energy Partner. This collaboration, unveiled alongside Wexford players Seán Nolan and Laura Dempsey, underscores Pinergy's commitment to supporting local communities and driving the energy transition forward in Co. Wexford. The partnership will see Pinergy work closely with Wexford GAA to promote sustainability across its clubs.
As part of this initiative, Pinergy will be installing a 66-panel, 29.37kWp solar PV system at Chadwicks Wexford Park in the coming months, projected to generate 25,600kWh annually. This installation demonstrates Pinergy's dedication to green energy solutions with the County Board, as it is expected to cover 50% of Wexford GAA's energy demand.
Pinergy is the leading supplier of solar and other energy services in Wexford. With a strong local presence, including a base in Senan House, Enniscorthy Technology Park, Pinergy has been installing solar PV and batteries since 2012 and boasts a long record of delivering effective solar energy solutions in the county. Pinergy will offer green energy affinity solutions to the Co. Wexford GAA community, encouraging the further adoption of sustainable energy in the sunny south east. DavidstownCourtnacuddy GAA Club is already working with Pinergy on its energy transition, including a solar PV installation.
Head of Marketing at Pinergy, David Slattery, said, "We are incredibly excited to partner with Wexford GAA. This partnership is a natural fit, allowing us to not only support the vibrant GAA community in Wexford but also to highlight the significant benefits of sustainable energy. We look forward to helping local clubs and their members embrace the energy transition through our affinity programmes and green energy offers." n
Ready to go ploughing!
A small business from Enniscorthy will get the chance to exhibit to almost 300,000 people at the National Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Co. Offaly, this month as part of the Local Enterprise Village.
The Hair Doctor, supported by Local Enterprise Office Wexford, is an Irish business pioneering water filtration technology for healthier hair. Best known for its 20-stage shower filter, the company addresses one of the most common yet overlooked causes of hair and scalp issues: hard water.
Founded by award-winning Enniscorthybased hair stylist Keara Howard, The Hair Doctor grew out of her years of salon experience. After noticing that many clients who used premium products and avoided heat styling still struggled with lifeless hair, Keara traced the problem back to water quality. Determined to create a solution, she developed the Hair Doctor Filter, which removes chlorine, heavy metals, and minerals that damage hair and skin.
Since launch, the product has been stocked nationwide, winning Salon Supplies of the Year 2025 and earning praise from customers and professionals alike. Today, The Hair Doctor stands as one of Ireland’s most exciting examples of innovation in beauty and wellness technology.
The Local Enterprise Village, an initiative
BEST WISHES TO KEARA (ABOVE) AS SHE PREPARES TO EXHIBIT HER MULTI-AWARDWINNING BUSINESS AT THE NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPIONSHIPS.
of the Local Enterprise Offices, will house 30 small businesses from across the country and will be located at the heart of this year’s National Ploughing Championships in Offaly from the 16th to 18th September.
This year the Local Enterprise Offices are partnering with Google to enhance the offering within the Local Enterprise Village. Google will have their own area within the Local Enterprise Village where they will be hosting talks and demonstrations for small businesses and entrepreneurs who are looking to improve their business by utilising digital tools and AI.
Niamh Smyth TD, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation, says; “This partnership between the Local Enterprise Offices and Google for the Ploughing Championships is an extremely positive development for the Local Enterprise Village at this year’s event. It will give small business owners, both exhibiting and visiting the Ploughing, the chance to tap into Google’s expertise in the areas of digitisation and AI and how they can significantly impact their business.”
The Local Enterprise Village will showcase the very best of Irish entrepreneurship and will house businesses across all sectors from natural skincare and organic soy candles to sustainable fashion and eco-friendly, 3D-printed sensory toys.
Head of Enterprise & Economic Development in Wexford Breege Cosgrave says, “This is an unrivalled opportunity for a small business in Ireland. The chance to bring their ideas and products to almost 300,000 potential customers is a showcase like no other. The Local Enterprise Village has become one of those areas everyone wants to drop into to find their local business and see what they can pick up. We are delighted to have nominated Keara to represent Wexford at this year’s Ploughing and to showcase the innovation and entrepreneurship that our county is so proud of.” n
Take note of top dog-travel tips
To celebrate International Dog Day on 26 August, Carzone, Ireland’s online car marketplace, compiled the following list of ‘paw-some’ tips for safely travelling with your dog in the car.
We know it’s great taking man’s best friend on adventures, but there are important things to consider when travelling with dogs, particularly if you want to keep your car in top condition for future resale. Whether you're heading to the vets or taking a day trip to the beach, these tips will ensure your beloved pooch gets safely from A to B while keeping your car in top condition for selling it in the future.
Secure Your Dog in the Car – It’s the Law
Car travel is an important part of life for many dogs, allowing them to explore new and exciting places. But when travelling in the car, safe transportation is crucial to prevent accidents. For smaller dogs, a suitably sized pet carrier is recommended. Ensure the carrier is spacious and secured with a seatbelt. Your dog or puppy should be secured in an open boot with a guard blocking access to the car’s passenger interior. Closed boots are not recommended due to poor air circulation.
Larger dogs should be secured with an appropriately sized and correctly fitted harness in the main cabin of the car. To prevent distraction, it's best they ride in the back seat, with the harness fastened to the seat belt attachment.
Preparation is Key
First and foremost, get your dog used to the car. Reward calm behaviour near the vehicle with their favourite treats. If they’re hesitant, place a blanket or bed with a familiar scent inside to comfort them. Teach your dog to enter and exit the car calmly, as excessive jumping can be dangerous, especially in crowded car parks.
Begin with short, slow journeys to ease your dog into car travel. When making longer trips, frequent breaks are essential so your pup can stretch their legs and get fresh air. A long walk beforehand can also help – a well-exercised dog is more likely to be calm and nap during the drive.
Keep Your Dog Comfortable
Nobody likes a hot, stuffy car, including your pup. Use non-spill water bowls to keep them hydrated and facilitate airflow by slightly opening the windows. Only open them a little to prevent pets from leaping out.
For anxious dogs, research suggests classical music can be
soothing during travel. If your dog shows signs of fear, never force them as they might panic if they feel trapped. And always remember: never leave your dog unattended in the car.
Keeping the Car Clean
At Carzone, we’re often asked how to maintain a car’s resale value. Alongside regular servicing and maintenance, keeping the car clean is essential, especially with pets!
A clean car with no visible signs of dogs (or kids!) helps attract serious buyers. Limiting your pet to one spot in the car helps minimise where fur, marks and scratches can reach, keeping the vehicle in better condition for its next owner.
Following Carzone’s guidance allows your pooch to become your favourite travel companion, ensures a safe journey for all, and helps keep your car ‘pawsitively’ spotless.
For more automotive advice to enjoy your vehicle while keeping it in good condition for resale, visit https://www.carzone.ie/sell-my-car n
Gardaí seize dog
In response to recent dog attacks in Enniscorthy, local Gardaí executed a search warrant last month at an address in the town and, with the assistance of the Dog Wardens, seized a dog.
A full investigation is underway and a file will be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The Gardaí remind all dog owners of their legal responsibilities. Dogs must be kept under your control in public places at all times.
Please report any offences or concerns to An Garda Síochána. n
I've been to several talks on farming new approaches and recently to a veterinary seminar on canine sports medicine. There are just so many facets to veterinary, how cases can be treated, and I love learning new and novel ways of treating these animals.
At a talk two months back a dairy farmer from New Zealand, Tracey Simpson, is milking a herd of 700 cows with her husband. It’s a sizeable operation by any standards but she manages the herd health to a large degree using homeopathy. When she’s weaning the cows and calves she treats mother and calf with a grief remedy. If the calves are exposed to a tough night’s weather conditions she treats them for stress and has managed to keep her young calf-rearing side of the farm running very smoothly. Prevention is key, and nurturing these animals on different levels ensures their thrive and viability in the herd. It’s a win for the animal and the farmer.
Listening to some of the Australian vets presesenting at the canine sports conference, they
with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
spoke about their protocol in examining a racing greyhound looking for injuries. They do a detailed physical examination, determine the damaged, sore or restricted areas, and then employ acupuncture points either injecting the points or dry needling them to help resolve the restrictions often with instantaneous results. I marveled at their level of expertise in anatomy, physiology, surgical technique, and Chinese Traditional medicine.... all rolled into their everyday work. Integrative medicine at its best. In true Aussie style they just do whatever it takes to get the job done, no fuss just do it!
Being open to different approaches gives us new scope for learning, new ways of treating animals with less 'heavy duty' intervention which can be a win-win. Getting in early, preemptive treatment often reduces injury risk or prevents illness. Using the best of Eastern and Western medicine these people are showing the way forward. It’s an exciting time in veterinary medicine as these two worlds coalesce for the betterment of the animals and clients alike. 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):
Dacia has built a loyal following in Ireland with budgetfriendly models like the Sandero and Duster. Now the brand is going bigger with the arrival of its largest SUV to date, the new Dacia Bigster. Slotting above the popular Duster, it enters the fiercely competitive family SUV market, going up against bestsellers such as the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson. But with pricing starting from €29,990, the Bigster massively undercuts its rivals and is certain to catch the attention of budget-conscious buyers.
Built on the same platform as the Duster but longer overall, the Bigster gets Dacia’s familiar rugged styling with lots of chunky cladding and characteristic Y-shaped LED headlights. Buyers can choose from four trimsExpression, Essential, Extreme and Journey - with alloy wheel sizes ranging from 17- to 19-inch. Higher trims add extras like rear privacy glass, a powered tailgate and the option of a panoramic glass sunroof, a first for Dacia.
Inside the Bigster is quite similar to the Duster. The design is simple and the materials tough rather than plush. All models come with a leather steering wheel, a 7-inch digital driver display, 10-
inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity, reversing camera, parking sensors, air conditioning and cruise control. Moving up the range brings more luxuries, including heated seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charging and a larger digital driver display.
One of the Bigster’s standout strengths is space. The rear seats offer generous headroom and legroom, while Isofix points, climate vents and USB-C ports will make life easier for families. The boot is equally impressive
with up to 677 litres available in the petrol version or 612 litres in the hybrid, along with a two-position floor and split-folding seats for extra flexibility.
On the road, the Bigster feels sturdy and composed, with improved refinement thanks to thicker glazing and an acoustic windscreen. The ride can feel a little unsettled on rougher roads, but it remains comfortable overall and is quiet at motorway speeds. The Hybrid 155 tested here combines a 1.8litre petrol engine with two electric motors and a small battery. It's smooth to drive with adequate performance and delivers impressive efficiency, averaging 5.6 litres per 100 kilometres during my time with it. Other engines include a 1.2-litre turbo petrol with mild hybrid technology, also available with four-wheel drive.
With prices starting from €29,990, the Bigster offers remarkable value in a segment where most rivals easily push beyond €40,000. Even the wellequipped Journey Hybrid driven here costs a reasonable €37,540. It's not quite as polished as rivals when it comes to the interior finish, but for buyers looking for a spacious and practical SUV at a good price, the Bigster is a great option. n
Interior
Sporting snippets
Best of luck to Enniscorthy’s Moyne Rangers who have just got planning per mission to erect a new astroturf training pitch with surrounding fencing, netting and floodlights.
It’s great to see new lights for the back pitch at Enniscorthy Rugby Club’s Alcast Park being erected. Well done to the subcommittee for organising and thanks to everyone who supported the 300 Draw. The club is also grateful for the Sports Capital grant awarded to this project. The teams are looking forward to action under the match-grade lights.
Congratulations to Enniscorthy Golf Club’s Ruairi Cooper on winning the Under 16 Boy’s Open Amateur Championship played in Rossmore GC last month. Ruairi shot a fabulous round of 3 under par (68) to win by 2 shots.
Edermine Ferry Rowing Club is one of this year’s chosen 26 sports clubs to receive €5,000 in funding under the 2025 Texaco Support for Sport initiative. Full details in our next issue.
Racing is on two nights a week, Mondays and Thursdays, at Enniscorthy Greyhound Track – a great way to spend an evening with friends or family. First race starts at 8pm. Admission is €10 per adult (incl. race card), €8 for OAP/student (incl. race card). Under 14s go free. Bar and cafe facilities on site, plus Chester’s chip van. Tote and bookmaker betting facilities on site. https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthygreyhound.track n
Enniscorthy Greyhound Track on 4th August 2025, Eugene McCabe, Larry Drennan, George Roche winning owner of ‘Tassie Ted’ winner of the 525 Final Grade 1, with Tracy Fitzpatrick, handler.
Sports Active
Sports Active Wexford is all about creating a healthier, safer, more active and inclusive society in Co. Wexford. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SportsActive n
National boxing event in Enniscorthy
Buffers Alley historic book launch
Calling all clubs in Co. Wexford!
Sports Active Wexford is building a Club Directory to help people in our community find fun, friendly, and active ways to get moving – and they want YOUR club to be part of it!
Whether you’re a GAA club, gymnastics club, soccer club, dance class, rugby club or anything in between – sign up today and showcase what you offer. Get your club on the map and help more people discover the joy of being active! https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/community/sports-active-wexford/club-directory n
Buffers Alley GAA club will launch their History Book on Wednesday night, 17th September, at 7.30pm in the clubhouse. An open invitation to attend the launch is extended to everyone. Books will be on sale.
After two years of research, this book will unveil over 100 years of club history, celebrating both their GAA and Camogie heritage. The club is delighted to have Jarlath Burns, GAA President, to launch the publication. This 700-page hardback (A4 size) is packed with hundreds of stunning black/white and full-colour photographs, chronicling the moments, people, and triumphs that shaped the club.
The first supply of books will be limited so all those interested are encouraged to pre-order now to secure a copy and collect it on Launch Night. Orders may be placed by sending a €50 Revolut payment to Lynsey (085) 202 8113 or by contacting club members. Alternatively, you can scan the QR code on graphic opposite.
Follow the club’s social media pages for updates, sneak peeks, and stories from the archives. n
Pickle Ball now available in Enniscorthy
Curious about the fastest-growing sport in Ireland?
Pickleball is a racket or paddle sport in which two players (singles) or four players (doubles) use a smoothfaced paddle to hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball over a 34-inch-high (0.86 m) net until one side is unable to return the ball or commits a rule infraction.
Enniscorthy Astro Centre is the perfect place to experience the fun and energy of Pickleball.
Pickle Ball Tuesdays Over 50's 9.30am (booking only). Tuesdays Over 50's 10.30am (session only). Thursdays 6:00pm (pay as you go session).
Astro Active Centre, Bellefield, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 923 6678. Email: astroactive@reachability.ie n
Paul is new historianin-residence
Wexford Public Library Service is delighted to welcome Paul Byrne, its new Historian-in-Residence for Commemoration 2025.
Paul Byrne lives in Wexford Town and is currently working as a Tourism Representative and Historian at Enniscorthy Castle, the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, and the Vinegar Hill Battlefield Site. He has a BA (Hons) in Cultural Heritage Studies and a postgraduate degree in Public History & Cultural Heritage. He is currently studying for an MA in Museum Practice and Management at Ulster University.
Paul is looking forward to providing a programme of history talks in Co. Wexford’s five libraries and in local communities that will connect people of all ages in County Wexford to their local history from 1925 and preceding years. n
Rosslare communities wanted
A creative project raising awareness and knowledge of the Yola language is looking to involve local groups from the Rosslare Municipal District in storytelling workshops.
Funded by Wexford Co. Council through the Creative Ireland programme, this project has already engaged with groups from the area including Tagoat School, St. Mary’s National School, the Brigin Section of Piercestown Girl Guides, volunteers at and attendees of the Yola Farm, and residents of the Rosslare Port Lodge Hotel. Through theatre games and exercises, project lead Chris Moran has explored with these communities the heritage of Yola and what it means to today.
With the information gathered, Chris, who is an experienced theatre practitioner, will develop two resource packs (one for adults and one for children and young people). The resource packs will contain, amongst other items, a newly devised playscript that illustrates Yola heritage, and theatre-in-education games and exercises that encourage maximum engagement with the script and its rehearsal processes. As there is little knowledge of Yola, the packs will be another way for people to connect with its heritage and instil further impressions of its cultural legacy. Available in digital and print formats, the packs will be available to borrow from Wexford Li-
brary. They will be presented to the Rosslare people at a special event on Culture Night 2025.
Cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal District Ger Carthy says, ‘This project champions the unique heritage of Rosslare by preserving Yola and making its future more dynamic and accessible. I would encourage our local communities to get involved in the storytelling workshops, and take the opportunity to have your perspectives included in this important local story.’
If you would like to take part in one of the storytelling workshops or you would like any more information, contact elizabeth.howard@wexfordcoco.ie n
Heritage in Bunclody and Ballymurn
Above left: Bunclody Heritage Week in St Aidan’s Hall, Bunclody, 22nd August 2025, L-R: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy with Jimmy White.
Above right: Ballymurn National Heritage Week 2025 in Ballymurn Community Hall, 22nd August, 2025, L-R: Spinner Aileen Stevenson, Mary Sommers, Anne Doran,and Breda Redmond.
A bat walk in Enniscorthy
A 'Bat Biodiversity Walk' was held by Enniscorthy Tidy Towns on 20th August at the Island Road, with the help of the Gorey Bat Group, and what a huge success it was – the event was fully booked out days in advance and on the night over 30 people were treated to an informative experience. Enniscorthy Tidy Towns Chairman Jonathon Hughes said that the bats were shy initially but "put on a magnificent display towards the end". There are over 1,000 species of bat worldwide, but only nine are found in Ireland.
WEXFORD CO. COUNCIL ISSUED NO DOG-FOULING FINES IN 2024!
Data gathered by Vision Ireland has revealed that just 48 dog-fouling fines in total were issued throughout the whole country by Irish Local Authorities in 2024.
Dog-fouling is a serious problem in Ennis corthy and is one of the most raised is sues by our town's Councillors at the monthly meetings of Enniscorthy Mu nicipal District. The introduction by Wexford Co. Council of dedicated dog-foul bins, the Green Dog Walker Scheme, various education initiatives, and huge efforts by Enniscorthy Tidy Towns to encourage responsible dog ownership, have had only minor success. Without a spate of punitive fines being issued and culprits named and shamed, there is little incentive for offenders to do the right thing.
Dog-fouling is a public safety issue and can pose health concerns for both children and adults. People who are blind or vision impaired and use mobility aids are particularly at risk.
Vision Ireland’s 'Clear Our Paths' campaign is all about raising awareness of everyday obstacles faced on footpaths, including dog waste, and urging the public to take action. To mark ‘Clear Our Paths’, a survey of 281 people who are blind or vision impaired explored the issue of footpath obstacles. Vision Ireland found that 42% of respondents were impacted by dog waste in public spaces on a frequent basis. Not only does dog-fouling present a slipping hazard, but it can also be a major problem for white cane users whose canes are dirtied by faeces. When folded up, this poses a hygiene and health risk.
Respondents to the survey provided insights into the effect dog-fouling has on their day-to-day life. One person
said: “Dog fouling gets all over my cane and shoes, and a lot of the time I don’t realise. If I’m folding up my cane, it will get on my hands which is embarrassing and disgusting, and it would be much easier if an owner picks up after their dog.”
Vision Ireland is imploring dog owners to act responsibly and consider other users of shared footpaths, including people who are blind or vision impaired.
Councils are tasked with tackling the scourge of dog-fouling, but overall an extremely low – and seemingly decreasing – number of fines are issued to people for not cleaning up after their dogs.
Fines totalled 48 and 46 in 2024 and 2023 respectively, both a significant decrease from the 82 fines issued in 2022.
Cork County Council led the way in 2024 with 11 fines, while most Local Authorities in the country issued just one or two. 14 Local Authorities – almost half of the total –including Wexford County Council, issued zero fines for dog-fouling last year.
Cars parked on footpaths also pose hazards and affect the ability of people who are vision impaired to navigate public spaces. 71% of survey respondents said that parked cars frequently block their route when using a path. Furthermore, 26% of people identified parked cars as the number one obstacle which causes them the greatest difficulty when navigating footpaths. There is a considerable safety risk involved when a parked car requires someone to step off the footpath and onto the roadway, into
Data provided by Local Authorities to Vision Ireland revealed that 21,032 fines were issued to motorists last year for parking on footpaths. Across the country this is a 5% decrease in the total number issued in 2023. While Dublin City issued 4,703 fines for illegal parking, Leitrim and Roscommon issued just five and zero fines respectively. Wexford Co. Council issued 209.
As part of ‘Clear Our Paths’, Vision Ireland is encouraging motorists to think twice the next time they consider leaving their car on a footpath, and reflect on the potential impact on people who are blind or vision impaired.
Kevin Kelly, Head of Policy and External Affairs at Vision Ireland, says: "Fines alone are not the answer, and we urge the public to be more considerate of the needs of everyone who uses our shared spaces.” n
Hosepipe ban remains in place
Uisce Éireann is reminding customers in Wexford that a Water Conservation Order – commonly known as a hosepipe ban – is still in place in County Wexford until 16 September 2025.
The restrictions include the use of garden hoses and other non-essential water uses.
The Order was put in place following a long period of dry weather combined with high demand, placing severe pressure on water supplies across the county. The Water Conservation Order is designed to reduce the potential of restrictions and outages over the coming weeks and months. n
Tips for water Conservation
Leak free: Check that your home is leak free. Check for running overflows and fix any dripping taps, cisterns or pipes.
Don’t let the tap run: Brushing your teeth with the tap running can use up to a staggering 6 litres per minute. Brushing your teeth with the tap off will use a more modest 1 litre of water.
Shower vs. Bath: The average bath uses 80 litres of water compared to an average shower using 49 litres in seven minutes. Switch your bath to a shower for a massive water saving.
Less time: With the average shower using 7 litres of water per minute by turning your five minute shower into four minutes, you could save up to 7 litres of water per day!
Fully loaded: Always ensure your dishwasher and washing machines are fully loaded. A modern washing machine uses approximately 65 litres of water per cycle while a dishwasher uses 20 litres. By ensuring they are fully loaded, not only will you conserve water but you will also reduce your energy bills.
Don’t flush it all away: A third of all water used in the home is flushed down the toilet. Some larger cisterns can continue to work effectively with a smaller flush. Place a displacement device into the cistern (out of the way of moving parts) to save water.
WATER CONSERVATION TIPS FOR BUSINESS:
Conduct a water audit to see where savings can be made. Appoint water stewards who will champion water conservation.
Invest in water efficient devices and appliances such as dual flush toilets, mixer taps and low flow showers.
Raise awareness amongst customers and employees with water conservation notices and signage.
Checking for leaks
It is important to check for and repair leaks on your premises, particularly if they are unoccupied for any prolonged period of time. Business owners should regularly inspect properties for leaks.
Water Stewardship for business
Uisce Éireann has a first-of-its-kind dedicated water stewardship programme where it works with businesses to help them understand and reduce their water use. Find out more at water.ie/businessconserve with advice for a range of industries including hospitality, manufacturing, agriculture and small businesses
Uisce Éireann has developed an easy-to-use conservation calculator to help people find out how much water they’re saving and what they can do to save even more. Check it out at water.ie/calculator n
A local biodiversity action plan
A Local Biodiversity Action Plan is currently being developed for County Wexford. The aim of the plan is to provide a structured approach to biodiversity conservation at local authority level. The plan will outline the objectives and actions needed to protect and enhance biodiversity within Wexford County.
The plan development is being guided by a Biodiversity Working Group working alongside the Council’s Biodiversity Officer. This working group includes representatives from the Local Authority, including elected members and staff, representatives from state agencies working in the area of biodiversity conservation, local heritage and biodiversity groups, local specialists, educational institutions, landowners and farming representatives.
This group considered the main issues which were highlighted as being of significance for Wexford’s biodiversity during a pre-draft public consultation for the action plan in April and May. These issues raised are now being used as the basis for developing actions for the action plan for the coming five years.
Some of the main issues the plan will seek to address are as follows:
Pesticides use reduction by Council and general public
Biodiversity awareness raising and training for the public
Biodiversity training for Wexford County Council staff
Promotion of Biodiversity enhancement in parks and gardens
A strategic plan for Invasive Alien Species (IAS) control
Highlighting and enhancing of Ecological corridors
Promotion of Native plants of local provenance for planting schemes
Lady’s Island restoration to good status
Developing and promotion of Citizen science opportunities
Hedgerow management training and awareness of legislation in relation to cutting out of season
Compliance with environmental legislation
Deterioration of wetlands and seek restoration opportunities
Safeguarding Biodiversity in Land Use and Marine Management activities
Mapping and protection of Sea grass beds
Mapping rare and scarce plants of the County
Improved Water quality – actions for land and sea
Protection of native and ancient woodlands
Raise awareness of Wildlife crime
Protection of Locally Important Biodiversity sites – important biodiversity sites outside of Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) or Natural Heritage Areas (NHA)
Inclusion of Nature Based Solutions into projects
Once the draft plan is developed, it will be presented to the Climate Change, Biodiversity and Environment Strategic Policy Committee of Wexford County Council for their review and approval. It will then be placed on public display for submissions from the public.
The public consultation phase is likely to be in January to February 2026. n
Please keep in mind Wexford County Council's Community Grant & Funding webpage when looking to source details of community grant and funding schemes that may be relevant to climate action measures.
This webpage is a valuable source of information detailing what schemes are currently available, terms and conditions etc., and very importantly.....deadlines!
To access the webpage, please click here: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/community-grants-and-funding n
Wexford Co. Council grants for Protected Structures and Thatched Buildings
Built Heritage Investment Scheme 2026:
Wexford County Council wishes to invite applications under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme as operated by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
This scheme seeks to assist with the repair and conservation of Protected Structures and Proposed Protected Structures and, in certain cases, for the conservation of structures within Architectural Conservation Areas, and to support the employment of skilled and experienced conservation professionals, craftworkers and tradespeople.
The scheme will be administered by Wexford County Council, with grants of between €2,500 and €50,000. Applicants will be required to provide a minimum of 20% matching funding.
Completed application forms must be received at Wexford County Council by 4pm on Friday 26th September 2025.
This year’s scheme has also incorporated streams for vernacular buildings and historic shopfronts, which were previously part of the Historic Structures Fund.
Further information and application forms for both schemes are available on the Wexford County Council website (wexfordcoco.ie), or from the Planning Section, telephone 053-9196101 or email planning@wexfordcoco.ie
Wexford County Council Grants for Thatched Buildings:
BBHIS Historic Thatched Buildings Stream 2026.
Wexford County Council wishes to invite applications under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme Historic
Climate action programme
Thatched Buildings Stream 2026 as operated by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
This scheme seeks is to protect the heritage value of historic thatched roof buildings across Ireland, including dwellings and other structures.
The scheme will be administered by Wexford County Council, with grants up to €20,000. Applicants will be required to provide a minimum of 20% matching funding.
Completed application forms must be received at Wexford County Council by 4pm on Friday 26th September 2025.
Further information and application forms for both schemes are available on Wexford County Council website (wexfordcoco.ie), or from the Planning Section, telephone 053-9196101 or email planning@wexfordcoco.ie n
The Community Climate Action Programme (CCAP) provides funding to support communities take climate action at a local level with the objective of building low carbon, sustainable communities, which will contribute to the national climate and energy targets.
In anticipation of CCAP Round 2, the Community Climate Action Officer will hold six public information sessions to explain how the fund can work for your community and provide guidance on how to prepare an application.
To register your interest in attending one of these sessions, email climateaction@wexfordcoco.ie
Gorey Library, Y25 WK37: Tuesday, 23rd September @ 7pm.
Enniscorthy Library, Y21 AD92: Thursday, 25th September @ 7pm.
Bunclody Library, Y21 E970: Tuesday, 30th September @ 3pm.
Stella Maris Centre, Kilmore Quay, Y35
TH9W: Wednesday, 1st October @ 7pm.
Wexford Library, Y35 AY20: Thursday, 2nd October @ 7pm.
New Ross Library, Y34 NW56: Tuesday, 7th October @ 7pm. n
Energy supports & resources
There are a number of government supports and resources available to help businesses mitigate the impact of energy price rises and become more energy efficient. Check out the website: https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/what-we-do/supportsfor-smes/energy-supports/ n
L.I.S. funding
Minister James Browne TD has welcomed €560,298 in recent additional funding to Wexford County Council for upgrade works on local rural roads and laneways under the Local Improvement Scheme (LIS). The investment will improve access to rural homes, farms and outdoor amenities. The additional funding makes a total of €1,180,198 for LIS in 2025.
Minister Browne said: “The Local Improvement Scheme is designed to support the continued improvement of nonpublic roads in rural communities and improves access to rural homes and farms, as well as outdoor amenities such as our lakes, rivers, mountains and beaches. There are many of these smaller roads and lanes across Wexford county and for safety as well as for accessibility it’s great we can offer a level of support to improve their conditions for people and farmers.”
These roads and laneways are not normally maintained by locally authorities; however they represent a vital piece of infrastructure for rural residents.
The LIS scheme was re-introduced in 2017 and to date over 20,000 landowners and rural residents have benefitted, with over 4,800 roads upgraded under the Scheme.
Eligible roads under the Local Improvement Scheme are: Non-public roads providing access to parcels of land, of which, two or more are owned or occupied by different persons, one of which must be for agricultural/harvesting purposes, and non-public roads leading to important community amenities such as graveyards, beaches, piers, mountains, etc. n
Cahore coastal protection
Minister for the OPW Kevin Moran TD has announced additional funding approval for Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection for Cahore.
Under the scheme, the OPW has approved additional funding of €500,362. It is proposed to strengthen and enhance the existing inadequate rock armour protection. n
Wexford County Council will accept mattresses for recycling from households (not businesses) at the four Household Recycling Centres outlined in the accompanying graphic, on the specified dates.
The opening hours of the Recycling Centres are: 08:15 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:00, Tuesday to Friday.
Entry Fee is €2 per vehicle payable by cash or card, with a limit of three mattresses per vehicle, and only one entry per vehicle. Mattresses should be clean and dry.
For further information, please contact the Environment Section of Wexford County Council on 053-9196 000 or customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie n
Planning exemptions help increase new homes supply
The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD has published figures showing that between 2018 and 2024, local authorities have received 1,457 notifications to convert vacant commercial properties into new homes. These notifications have the potential to create 3,429 new homes throughout the country.
Between 2018 and 2024, Wexford County Council received 45 notifications under planning exemptions, paving the way for the potential delivery of 146 new homes.
Planning exemptions introduced in 2018, removed the requirement for planning permission for the conversation of certain types of commercial properties into residential units.
In 2022, the Government extended the exemption to allow vacant pubs to be converted into homes. Since then, there have been three notifications for a change of use relating to vacant pubs in Wexford, with the potential to provide 16 new homes n
Refuse single use plastics (bags, cups, etc)
Rethink your choices
Reuse as much as possible
Repair before you replace
Recycle all packaging and plastic bottles
Rot all your organic stuff and put it back into the soil n
Can you help?
Do you have a few hours to spare a month? Find yourself bored mid week evenings or at the weekend? Want to make your town a better place? Please contact Enniscorthy Tidy Towns: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown Email: enniscorthytt@gmail.com n
Report illegal dumping
Wexford County Council has three methods to log illegal dumping complaints:
1. Call: 053 919 6000
2. Email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
3. Website to report illegal dumping: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/waste-and-recycling/report-illegal-dumping n
Dog waste
Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA) has been approved for a Local Waste Prevention Grant, which it will use to restore unwanted tools for reuse by its members.
So have a look around your house/shed for tools that ECA can restore, and please leave them at the ECA shed reception. n
did you know?
Did you know, bagged dog waste can go in any public litter bin?
The wonderful volunteers of Ferns Tidy Towns group, and similar groups around the county, are still finding bagged dog poo discarded in landscaped areas, in planters, left on top of walls, or just dropped on the footpaths. The Ferns group is exasperated by this ongoing problem, saying, “It’s not our responsibility to pick up after your dog. There’s just no excuse!”
Do you know you don’t need to find a dedicated dog-waste bin, bagged dog waste can go in any public litter bin!
Leaving dog mess behind isn’t an option, so if the nearest dog bin is full or too far away, just use a general litter bin, or bring it home and dispose of it in your own household waste bin. n
Big beach clean is back for 2025
Sign up for a free beach clean kit and join the worldwide citizen science project to influence policies and campaigns to protect our ocean.
The Annual Clean Coasts Big Beach Clean is back for 2025 and beach enthusiasts from across the country are being encouraged to take part and register their beach clean-ups. Taking place from September 19th to 21st, volunteers across the country will join the action to clean litter from their local beaches, waterways and towns, all while contributing to a global effort to combat marine litter.
Once again kindly supported by Kia Ireland, the Big Beach Clean is encouraging volunteers to sign up now for their free clean-up kit and join the beach-cleaning movement. In 2024, over 600 groups registered to host a clean-up, and removed a staggering 95 tonnes of litter from our marine environment making it the biggest clean-up action yet! This year they want to continue the momentum and promote citizen science action through filling out Marine Litter Data Cards.
Upon signing up, participants will receive everything they need to conduct a
successful beach clean and complete a marine litter survey. Through filling in the Clean Coasts Marine Litter Data Cards or using the Clean Swell App one can become a part of a global citizen science action by recording one’s litter-picking
findings. The Big Beach Clean is held as part of the International Coastal Cleanup, led globally by Ocean Conservancy.
For more information and to register, visit cleancoasts.org/our-initiatives/bigbeach-clean/ n
Above L-R: Lucy, Bella, Rowan, Shem and Lonán jumping for joy at the launch of the Big Beach Clean for 2025. Below: Registrations are now open for the Big Beach Clean 2025 supported by Kia Ireland. Sign up today to do your part for the coast.
Pictured L-R: Bronagh Moore (An Taisce Clean Coasts Manager,) Cathal Kealey (Head of Marketing and PR at Kia Ireland), Anne Marie Kirwan (#2MinuteBeachClean Campaigns Officer) and Róisín Fitzgerald (Clean Coasts Development Officer for Wexford and Wicklow).
