SN 02-10-25

slaney news

serving Co. wexford for the last 15 years

Issue 185 - October 2025

Rosemary O’Loughlin at The Village at Wheelocks for the charity sunflower picking event on 6th September 2025.

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

Kavanagh’s Pharmacy 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.

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1kg and 500g bags now available.

DUFFRY HILL, ENNISCORTHY. T: (053) 9234660.

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Page 2 - 2nd October 2025

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Contents of this issue of Slaney News...

Wexford Opera Antiques Fair

News

page 4

Leisure & Lifestyle

page 58

Arts

page 98

Food & Drink

page 100

Business & Finance page 108 Pets

page 114

Motoring

page 116

Sport

page 119

History & Heritage page 123 Environment

page 126

Talbot Hotel, Wexford October 23rd - 27th 2025 Open 11a.m. - 8p.m. daily Antique Furniture, Jewellery, Retro Clothing, Art and More John Barber jb@annefield.ie

€5 ENTRY

PAT MURPHY OIL LTD. A family-owned Wexford company providing you with a reliable and quality service since 1988 Ask about our Easy Pay Budget Plan All Major Credit & Laser Cards Accepted Delivering Kerosene, Diesel, Gas Oil, Agri Diesel to homes, farms and businesses all around Co. Wexford.

TEL: 053-9255219 - RATHNURE - ENNISCORTHY 2nd October 2025 - Page 3

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comment Welcome to the October issue of the Slaney News.

One of the most dedicated volunteer-based groups in Co. Wexford is the Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group. In recent years it has taken the town from a bronze medal position to achieving gold status. In recent days it held two very successful events – a table quiz and a Slaney river clean-up using kayaks. Both events are covered in this issue of the Slaney News. But such an active group is always in need of more volunteers to help out with all its work. If you can spare a couple of hours every now and then, please contact us at the Slaney News (087-2403310) and we’ll put you in contact with this amazing group.

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Some months ago the Slaney News was active in a camapign to secure a dedicated local bus service for Enniscorthy town. A huge number of signatures was collected on a petition and as a result there is a good chance that such a service will be commenced in the near future. On page 33 of this edition we highlight another bus-related issue – the lack of a nightly bus service around 11pm or 11.30pm from Wexford town to Enniscorthy. Anyone from Enniscorthy attending events in, say, the National Opera House or Wexford Arts Centre has no option of getting a bus back to Enniscorthy. Dorn Simon, an Enniscorthy resident, is trying to secure such a service but she needs signatures on her petition. Check out page 33 and please sign.

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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 14,000 Followers.

And, of course, if you like our format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership.

Thank you.

– Frank Corcoran

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.

Takeaway and Outside Catering also available. https://www.facebook.com/Cafe98Enniscorthy https://www.instagram.com/cafe98enniscorthy

Telephone: 085 1993775 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– We pride ourselves on using the freshest local ingredients from Wexford’s leading food producers – from farm to fork!

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To advertise in the Slaney News please contact: 087-2403310 SLANEY NEWS, CLONHASTON, ENNISCORTHY Tel: 087-2403310 Email: slaneynews@gmail.com www.slaneynews.com Facebook: Slaney News Online: www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs PUBLISHED in Enniscorthy by Corcoran Print & Design Disclaimer: Slaney News reserves the right to accept or reject any advertisement submitted for publication.

Slaney News does not attempt to investigate or verify claims made in advertisements appearing in our publication. The appearance of an advertisement in this publication in no way implies endorsement or approval by us of any advertising claims or of the advertiser, its product, or services. Slaney News disclaims any liability whatsoever in connection with advertising appearing in this publication.

Every effort has been made to ensure that all articles published in Slaney News are true and accurate but if any errors do occur please let us know and we will gladly rectify them in our next issue.

Where details of future events are given in this publication, we recommend that you check these details directly with the organisers as event details may be subject to change.

Slaney News strongly recommends seeking independent professional advice before acting on any financial, medical or other information contained in this publication.

SLANEY NEWS

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Barbara-Anne Murphy COUNCILLOR

We call to you !

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Enniscorthy Technology Park

Mobile: 087-6736966 Email: bamurphy@wexfordmcc.ie

Ken’s Computer Clinic Sales and Repair: Computers, Laptops, Printers, Monitors.

Networking and Accessories.

See website for special offers: www.kenscomputers.ie Email: ken@kenscomputerclinic.com

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage TD for Wexford

An established firm of solicitors, Julie and Kate Breen provide a full range of legal services at a competitive cost.

Family law ■ Court defence ■ First-time buyer Residential property ■ Commercial property Personal injuries ■ Employment law ■ Wills We provide a personal service with ongoing direct feedback from the solicitor to the client regarding each case.

Appointments can easily be made to suit your schedule by phone, email or by dropping into one of our offices Enniscorthy: Irish Street, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 9235699 Ferns: Law Chambers, Aldercourt, Ferns. Tel: 053 9366688.

E: info@JulieBreenSolicitor.ie www.JulieBreenSolicitor.ie

2nd October 2025 - Page 5

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KILCANNON GARDEN CENTRE A N D R E S TA U R A N T 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 October! 🍂 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 October routine.

This size ad can be yours for just €50+vat.

Telephone Frank at 087-2403310 for more details.

Page 6 - 2nd October 2025

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Tel: 053 9233593 www.vtnenniscorthy.ie Email: windmillautos@gmail.com

TESTING OF ALL COMMERCIAL VEHICLES Vans & Jeeps

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ENNISCORTHY WINDSCREEN CENTRE DIRECT BILLING TO MOST INSURANCE COMPANIES Donanore, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Y21 X6V6 Open Monday – Friday 8.30am – 5.45pm

Call today 053 9233593

2nd October 2025 - Page 7

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ST. MICHAEL'S THEATRE, NEW ROSS, FRIDAY, 3RD OCTOBER, 7.30PM. Tickets at Theatre Box Office (051) 421255 and Online: https://stmichaelsnewross.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873672010/events/129603000

Page 8 - 2nd October 2025

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Open G eVenIn 4th of

1 Tuesday from October pm 5.30-7.30

St.Mary’s C.B.S.

ennISCOrThy

Admission into St Mary’s CBS, Enniscorthy, September 2026 Applications from parents of students in 6th Class into 1st Year for September 2026, will be open to complete online (http://stmaryscbs.ie/page/Admissions-Application-Form) from Wednesday 15th October to Wednesday 5th November 2025. Further information is available on the school website: www.stmaryscbs.ie under ‘Enrolment’ or by contacting reception on 053-9234330.

We Care

We Prepare

We Achieve

2nd October 2025 - Page 9

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SATURDAY 18th OCTOBER Page 10 - 2nd October 2025

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Transform your Food or Tourism business with a LEADER grant of up to €150k €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

2nd October 2025 - Page 11

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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 laneway 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 contacted EMD officials about it.

ST JOHN’S COMMUNITY WELLBEING & ACTIVITY GARDEN The official launch by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD took place on 2nd September, assisted by Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD, Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy. The Activity Garden project was supported by Wexford County Council, the HSE, Creative Ireland, the Irish Architectural Foundation, and the Enniscorthy Men’s Shed. Funding was provided by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht’s Town and Village Renewal Scheme which has helped transform a green space into a vibrant community hub that is safe, accessible and welcoming to all.

open market this autumn. It is expected that any development would take several years to come to fruition.

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 on the preferred option for Phase 1 is scheduled to take place in Q4 2025. An application for planning approval for Phase 1 is to be submitted in Q3 2026.

Phase 2 – Flood Relief Works. This phase of the scheme will include the construction of the remaining flood relief measures for Enniscorthy town. The next steps are: Assess alternative design options in detail and shortlist these for consultation. Identify the preferred scheme to be brought forward for planning. Decide the appropriate planning route. Prepare planning documents & submit for planning approval.

The Scheme has a total approved budget of €51m approx. On completion, it is expected to protect 326 properties – 159 homes and 167 businesses.

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.

BUNCLODY PARK WCC Property Section is in discussion with local landowners. An application for funding for the acquisition of the land has been submitted to government under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme.

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. 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).

PAIRC NA GABHAR BUNCLODY Following a Public Consultation, a Part 8 Planning was lodged in 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.

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 meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD).

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 contractor, Kevin Thorpe Ltd, has been appointed for the second phase (sports equipment storage area, open space area, changing rooms, toilets, showers, and a small office) of the Sports Hub. A sod-turning event took place on 8th August. The project should take 9-12 months to complete.

The second phase has been made possible through investment of €450,000 by The Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, and Wexford Co. Council providing funding of €150,000.

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 adds 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 provides 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. Wexford County Council is committed to the long-term development of the site on a commercial basis; and it will be placed on the

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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 existing town trails network to link to the Ringwood and Borodale trails.

COLUMBARIUM WALL Tender documents are being prepared for the installation of a Columbarium Wall in Enniscorthy Lawn Cemetery.

RINGWOOD Wexford Local Development has been awarded €40,000 in government funding to resurface the entrance lane to Ringwood.

PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS 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.

BLACKSTAIRS Wexford Co. Council has been awarded almost €50,000 to fund a feasibility study for a walking and cycling trail connecting Bunclody, Kiltealy, Killanne, Templeduigan and Ballywilliam.

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 very soon.

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 very soon. n

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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

We’re here to professionally package your applica on and guide you through your Mortgage journey

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From Assessment and presenta on of Op ons to Applica on - Approval - Loan Offer right through to Drawdown of Funds, ­ we’re there to support you every step of the way!

053 92 43390 mar n@ashmorefs.ie www.ashmorefs.ie 1st Floor, 10 Templeshannon Quay, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, Y21 A8X5

WARNING: YOUR HOME IS AT RISK IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP PAYMENTS ON A MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER LOANS SECURED ON IT. Ashmore Mortgage & Financial Services Ltd trading as Ashmore Financial Services is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Enniscorthy Credit Union is double finalist Enniscorthy Credit Union (ECU) is proud to be a finalist in not one, but two categories at the 2025 Irish Credit Union Awards.

The awards celebrate the hard work and dedication of those in the Irish credit union sector.

It honours the outstanding performance by credit union staff, volunteers, and directors in areas like innovation, leadership, and community service.

ECU is delighted with the exciting news that it has been shortlisted in two categories at the 2025 All-Ireland Credit Union Awards.

1. Members Choice Award: Recognises the credit union that members believe best exemplifies excellence in service, reliability, and member satisfaction – public voting only.

2. The Community Award: Acknowledges the partnership a Credit Union has with their local community and its members. This nomination recognises ECU’s long-standing partnership with the Hope Cancer Support Centre in Enniscorthy and the Hope and Dream 10 and the fundraising and awareness efforts between the two, a cause that is very close to the hearts of all in ECU – judge voting only.

This is the first time Enniscorthy Credit Union has been recognised on the national stage.

To vote for Enniscortrhy Credit Union in the Members Choice Award category, which is the category open to public vote, please take a moment to vote using the link below and share it as widely as possible.

Voting closes Friday, 17th October at 5pm.

You can cast your vote here: https://cuawards.ie/members-choiceaward/ n

2nd October 2025 - Page 13

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Nano’s Barber Enniscorthy one year anniversary Congratulations to Nano Fusteac celebrating one year in his barbering business on Wafer Street, Enniscorthy.

Nano has established his impressive premises as the place to go for a lively and fun atmosphere, with great craic the order of the day.

Although renowned far and wide for his own expertise and that of his staff in skin fades, they actually cater for all ages

and hair-cut types, so they would love to see you call in and avail of their guaranteed expertise. Walk-ins are welcome at all times and there is an option to book also.

Nano’s Barber is open Monday to Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 8am-6pm, Sunday 10am-4pm. Follow and book on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nanos_barbering_/ or phone 083 3542935. n

Above: Nano’s Barber – the skin fade experts.

Left: The inviting interior.

Below: The elegant lighting in Nano’s Barber.

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Celebrating one year in Enniscorthy Gillens Café opened in Enniscorthy in late summer 2024 offering the best quality speciality coffee from Silverskin Coffee Roasters by Brian Kenny. The coffee is roasted in small batches to maintain freshness and flavour and the beans are sourced directly from the farmer primarily from a farm in Guatemala and in Rwanda to create a perfect blend of acidity and smoothness.

Proprietor Warren Gillen, the award-winning chef, says, “We make all our coffee on the minute with an extensive range of alternative milks and syrups (sugar free too!)

“And as for our food offering! We bake all our cakes using free-range eggs and real butter (yes all house baked). Our famous acai bowls use the finest acai and seasonal fruit paired with our housemade secret recipe granola.”

Warren’s toasties have gained universal praise, using the best ingredients and with an alternative twist to them using his signature chutneys and sauces to pack in the flavour.

“We recently introduced a mini salad pot using seasonal veggies, cheeses & protein, to great acclaim, fueling our busy customers on the go.”

“Our soups which are high-end restaurant style, use fresh seasonal ingredients, and are made daily and served with our organic spelt bread.”

Gillens also serves the best local icecream made

by Scup Gelato in Wexford.

When asked about future plans, Warren says, “We have exciting plans for our little café, maybe an evening offering in December, so keep an eye on our Insta page for updates: @gillenscafe_” n

Page 16 - 2nd October 2025

Open: Monday-Saturday 7.30am-4pm Email: gillenscafe@gmail.com Insta: @gillenscafe_

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Seamus & Mary launch ‘College & Are you a student or a parent of a student soon to be making decisions regarding college, career and CAO options? If so, Seamus Whitney and Mary Hickey (pictured above) have just launched a new book ‘The College & Career Companion: Navigating the CAO System in Ireland'.

The official launch took place on 12th September 2025 at 7pm in The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy – an evening of informative discussions featuring two guest speakers: Nettie Bowie, Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist with NorthStar Counselling & Therapy Centre, Enniscorthy, and Niall Reck of Graphedia Superlative Website Design, based in Wexford and Kildare. MC for the occasion was the eloquent Alan Maher, and wonderful refreshments were served during the well-attended launch event.

Commenting after the launch, Mary Hickey said, "Thank you to all who turned up to support us and to all who

Seamus Whitney

made the night such a success. It was a night of meeting wonderful people and sharing the moment with family and friends.” n

L-R: Niall Reck (guest speaker), Alan Maher (MC), Nettie Bowie (guest speaker)

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Mary Hickey

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Career Companion’

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The Riverside Park Hotel Sunday 12th October Y H T R O C 2025 S I ENN

N I T R ONCE

C R E V ST E

LA

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Tickets from the hotel reception: 053 9237800 or Ticketmaster.ie

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An invitation to all mothers A local dance artist along with Creative Places Enniscorthy invite mothers to get playful and make noise...

Dance artist Lucia Kickham will host Creative Mother Workshops weekly between now and mid November.

Designed for mothers (and grandmothers) of all ages and all stages of motherhood, they will spark creativity and provide tools to support maternal wellbeing through movement, voice, writing and visual art.

These workshops are facilitated by four professional mother artists: singer Michelle O’Rourke, artist Fiona O’Connor, writer Caroline Lawless, and dancer Lucia Kickham.

Speaking about her inspiration for the project, Lucia says, “I am a mother to a one-year-old. I haven’t found the transition easy and struggle with anxiety. As an artist I know that creating can help process emotions and return a sense of power and joy. During pregnancy, I began a daily practice of creative moments. Often this was just two minutes scribbling a picture and writing a cor-

responding phrase. I explored breathing, chanting and movement practices to self-regulate. They were short habits and the goal was to do them with a nonpressured, non-judgemental attitude.

Most days it helped ease my anxiety.

This is the approach I want to share through this series of workshops.”

“The workshops offer a way of finding pockets of creativity that can fit into the busy days of motherhood and caring – tiny creative acts and mindful moments for you to reconnect with yourself so that you can be ready for the next moment back as Mammy.”

“I want to offer mothers in Enniscorthy a taste of these different artistic activities – moving, writing, singing, and drawing – to offer them time for themselves and to build community support through shared experience in motherhood, a space that can otherwise feel a bit lonely.”

Creative Mother Workshops Wednesdays 10:00-11:30am 17 September - 12 November Templeshannon Community Centre, Enniscorthy.

Go along for one, some, or all workshops.

No previous experience necessary! And it’s all Free of charge.

Please get in touch with dance artist Lucia Kickham to sign up at 086-0632640 / luciakickham@gmail.com Instagram / Facebook: @luciakickhamdanceartist Kindly supported by Creative Places Enniscorthy.

About the artist: Trained in The Netherlands, Lucia has worked with many companies and artists at home and abroad. She regularly guest tutors at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at University of Limerick.

In recent years, Lucia has been a recipient of awards from the Arts Council of Ireland (Next Generation 2020, Agility and Project Awards), Dance Ireland, Tipperary Dance, Grand Studio Brussels and Tanztendenz Munich.

Most recently Lucia created a new community dance work in Enniscorthy, commissioned by Luail – The National Dance Company. n

2nd October 2025 - Page 21

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Activity Garden officially opens at St. John’s Community Hospital An Activity Garden has been completed and officially opened on 2nd September 2025 on the grounds of St. John’s Community Hospital, Enniscorthy.

Including hedgerows, planting, and an amphitheatre-styled area, the garden will be a multi-functional space for gatherings and health and wellbeing activities in the heart of the HSE healthcare campus for its residents, staff and visitors.

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD carried out the official opening.

The Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD was also a guest at the ceremony.

The Activity Garden project was supported as a placement incentive by Wexford County Council’s Culture and Creativity team and Age Friendly programme, in partnership with the HSE, Creative Ireland, the Irish Architectural Foundation and the Enniscorthy Men’s Shed.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony at St. John’s on Tuesday 2nd of September, Minister Browne said:

Also speaking at the ceremony, Minister Murnane O’Connor added: “Outdoor community amenities are a vital support for physical and mental health and wellbeing, aligning with the goals of Healthy Ireland, our Framework supporting national health and wellbeing. The new Community Activity Garden here on the St. John’s Community Hospital Campus is a wonderful community facility, enabling everyone, regardless of age or mobility status, to enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful setting.”

The HSE began the Healthy Campus and Creative Garden project in 2020 and was delighted to host an audience of guests for the opening ceremony that included residents and users of some of the HSE facilities on site at the St. John’s campus in Enniscorthy. Musical entertainment on the night was provided by the Enniscorthy branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann.

The Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr. Joe Sullivan addressed the opening ceremony, saying: “This is a wonderful example of community collaboration and creativity. The Activity Garden will provide a lasting resource for wellbeing, recovery, and connection.”

“The Activity Garden is a wonderful amenity to have on a healthcare campus and I congratulate everyone who has been involved in bringing it from its initial conceptual stage to the physical completion we have today. In a true reflection of community development, there has been a strong partnership evident here in Enniscorthy between the HSE and Wexford County Council at each stage of this and other developments on the St. John’s campus.”

The Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council Cllr. Barbara-Anne Murphy was also present, in addition to Senior Executive Engineer Neville Shaw and Executive Technician Cat Fitzpatrick from the local authority.

“The funding provided by my colleague Minister Dara Calleary’s Department of Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht’s Town and Village Renewal Scheme has helped transform a green space into a vibrant, community hub that is safe, accessible and welcoming to all. It is testament to Wexford County Council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing local communities and doing so in partnership with various entities, including the HSE.”

“We are all looking forward to the Activity Garden enabling patients, their companions or visitors and HSE staff on site at the St. John’s Community Hospital campus to enjoy some fresh air and, during fine weather, offering an opportunity for outdoor events and activities!”

The Ministers and local authority representatives were joined at the speakers’ podium by Dr. Sinéad Reynolds (Integrated Healthcare Area Manager for Waterford/Wexford, HSE Dublin and South East), who said:

The occasion was chaired by HSE Head of Service for Health and Wellbeing Derval Howley, whose department has supported the project from its inception in 2020

when Dr. Denise Rogers (Senior Clinical Psychologist, Child Disability Services) chaired a group of HSE staff on site that began the healthy campus and Creative Garden project. Health and Wellbeing funded outdoor exercise equipment for the campus and supported the funding application for the creative garden.

As was pointed out for guests by Mick Mahon (Advanced Nurse Practitioner, Mental Health Intellectual Disability, Wexford Mental Health Services and HSE site lead for stakeholder engagement/Chair of Health and Wellbeing Committee, St. John’s Community Hospital campus), the HSE’s campus in Munster Hill, Enniscorthy, features a wide range of healthcare facilities and services:  Millbrook (disability services day centre)  Tús Nua (mental health rehabilitation unit)  Millview (mental health reside care)  Havenview (intellectual disabilities care centre)  An Tearman (mental health respite centre)  Adult Disability and Children’s Disability Network Team facilities  The HSE’s Wexford Vaccination Centre  The HSE’s Health and Wellbeing service  The HSE’s Primary Care/Social Inclusion and Substance Misuse Team services  St. John’s Community Hospital  The Hubs for the Wexford Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons and the Wexford Memory Assessment and Support Service  St. John’s Day Centre for Older People.

The Enniscorthy Men’s Shed base is also housed in the old St. John’s building on the campus. The Men’s Shed are again partnering with the HSE on the planned walking route, the next healthy campus initiative being progressed at St. John’s.

Monageer Contracting Ltd. (in conjunction with S&N Granite Products Ltd.) carried out the work on the Activity Garden project, which includes an amphitheatrestyled central area in addition to planting, hedgerows and seating. n PHOTOS ON NEXT 2 PAGES 

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Activity garden at St John

Above: The official opening of the Activity Garden at St. John’s Community Hospital, Enniscorthy, on 2nd September.

Left: Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD and Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD unveil the plaque to officially open the Activity Garden at St. John’s Community Hospital in Enniscorthy.

Right: Local politicians Cllr Trish Byrne, Senator Cathal Byrne, Cllr Pat Kehoe.

Below: Residents, service users and staff of HSE facilities at St. John’s Community Hospital pictured with guest speakers at the official opening of the Activity Garden.

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’s officially opens

The sizeable gathering for the official launch.

Above right: Carolyne Godkin (Director of Services, Wexford Co. Council), Keith and Kelly Swaine of Monageer Contracting Ltd. Left: Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr. Joe Sullivan, Minister Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cllr.

Barbara-Anne Murphy.

Above right: HSE Head of Service for Health and Wellbeing Derval Howley was MC for the official opening and welcomed guest speakers, L-R: Mick Mahon (Wexford Mental Health Services and site lead for stakeholder engagement/Chair of Health and Wellbeing Committee, St. John’s Community Hospital campus); Dr. Sinéad Reynolds (Integrated Healthcare Area Manager for Waterford/Wexford, HSE Dublin and South East); Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cllr. Barbara-Anne Murphy; Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD; Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy Jennifer Murnane O’Connor TD; Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr. Joe Sullivan; Senator Cathal Byrne; and Malcolm Byrne TD.

Enniscorthy Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann.

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Enniscorthy Tidy Towns Quiz Night at Rackards, Enniscorthy, 25th September 2025 Enniscorthy Tidy Towns (ETT) volunteers were ‘flabbergasted’ by the size of the turnout as 25 teams containing 100 contestants helped ETT raise over €1,700 on the night. A huge ‘thank you’ to all who participated, helped run the event, and all the raffle sponsors.

L-R: Paul Webster, Emmet Beegan (both members of the winning team along with Eoin Deegan and John Kelly) receiving their goodie bag of prizes from ETT Chairperson Jonathon Hughes.

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Right: ETT volunteers Gia O’Grady, Jonathon Hughes, and Phil Millar giving the ‘thumbs-up’ to a very successful event.

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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: .......................................................................................................

Email: ..............................................................................................................

Mobile: ........................................................................................................... .

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.

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Reach Ability celebrating 50 years

50 Years of Reach Ability (formerly CWCW) in Enniscorthy and 50 new mosaics created to celebrate this anniversary. L-R: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy (Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District), Trevor Jacob (CEO, Reach Ability), Helen McLean (artist), and Yvonne O’Connor (WWETB).

Betty Codd’s event raises over €10,000

Betty Codd from Ballindaggin organised a Bingo and Music Night in July to raise funds for The Friends of St Luke’s. The whole village came together to show their support and appreciation for the care Betty received at St Luke’s, and raised an incredible €10,330 in the process.

This generous donation will go a long way towards helping hundreds of patients undergoing treatment at St Luke’s Radiation Oncology Network.

Front row L-R: Natalia Torkunova (Friends of St Luke’s), Ann Carroll, Helen Jordan, Betty Codd, Mairead Coleman, Andrea Codd, Owen Carroll.

Back row L-R: Betty Rafter, Maria Codd, Madeliene Londra-Carroll, Thomas Jordan and John Gladney.

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Happy retirement Ann!

Shopfront Painting & Flower Grant Scheme There was a fantastic response this year to the Enniscorthy District Shopfront Painting & Flower Grant Scheme. The total number of applications received/eligible was as follows: The total number of applications received/eligible was as follows: 44 Shopfront Painting Grants estimated spend €12,144.

26 Flower Grant estimated spend €2,770.

2 Awning Grants estimated spend €1,000.

The total cost of the scheme for this year is estimated at approximately €15,914.

Recent retirement of staff member Ann Byrne after 28 years with local law firm Frizelle McCarthy Solicitors, Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy. Ann is pictured with staff members L-R: Siobhan Gabbett, Anna Walsh, Ann Byrne (retiring), Annette McCarthy, Suzanne Carthy and Caroline Buckley.

The scheme was introduced to improve the attractiveness of the town and make it a better to place in which to live and work. Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Barbara-Anne Murphy would like to see the scheme expanded further next year with greater funding being made available. n

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 now here, it’s a great time to start a new pastime.

If you like to sing why not go along and join in every Monday evening.

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. n

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Myles’ generous donation THE SLANEY NEWS WAS DELIGHTED TO MEET THREE REMARKABLE PEOPLE LAST MONTH AT THE NATIONAL 1798 REBELLION CENTRE IN ENNISCORTHY. JONATHON HUGHES has led Enniscorthy Tidy Towns on a remarkable climb up the rankings in the national Tidy Towns competition to reach our current Gold Medal status.

MAURA BELL is the new Manager of The National 1798 Rebellion Centre and Enniscorthy Castle. Maura has a long professional career in tourism, hospitality, the arts and antiques, and also as an elected public representative including serving as Mayor of Wexford town in 2022. We'll be carrying a more substantial piece about Maura in an upcoming issue.

MYLES COURTNEY was born and bred in Wafer Street, Enniscorthy, where his father was a well known barber. Myles attended school in the local CBS and then worked at Bank of Ireland in various branches around Co. Wexford. He settled in New Ross in 1989 where he has become a well known historian and tour guide, presently offering separate tours of New Ross including '1798 Rebellion Route', 'Kennedy Footsteps (Downtown)', 'Murals Tour', 'Medieval and William Marshal Routes', and also bespoke tours on request. The Murals Tour ran on Culture Night, 19th September. Myles also offers assistance to those

Myles Courtney, in the centre, passing over his gift to Jonathon Hughes of Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, with Maura Bell, new Manager of The National 1798 Rebellion Centre and Enniscorthy Castle, also in attendance.

seeking help with their ancestry research.

where his sister, Pauline, is a very active volunteer.

Some months ago Myles was a speaker about 'The Battle of Ross' at the 1798 Summer School events in Enniscorthy and he generously offered to donate his speaker's fee to Enniscorthy Tidy Towns

Myles can be contacted at: New Ross Street Focus, Tel: 086 816 0977, Email: newrossstreetfocus@gmail.com Facebook: New Ross Street Focus n

FCJ Open Day Bunclody 28th September 2025 At the FCJ Secondary School, Bunclody, Open Day on 28th September were Samantha Hughes, deputy principal, and former student at the school Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District.

Tel: 053 937 7308, Email: office@fcjbunclody.ie Follow the school on: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076031224820 n

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Become a director of Enniscorthy Credit Union and make a difference in your local community Enniscorthy Credit Union is seeking a dedicated and community-focused individual to join its Board of Directors.

Have you ever wanted to do something meaningful with your free time?

This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to their established, trusted, and member-first community-focused financial service that serves over 33,000 members.

The Enniscorthy Credit Union's common bond serves Abbey Square in Enniscorthy, Ballymurn, Murrintown, and Taghmon.

Enniscorthy Credit Union has a strong legacy of commitment to generations in the locality. In 2024, they celebrated their 60th anniversary of providing trusted financial services to members in the area.

As a Director, you'll play a key role in guiding the strategic direction of the Credit Union while gaining valuable experience and insights into financial services and governance.

No prior board experience is necessary.

The ideal candidate must be committed

to community values and have a willingness to learn. Full training and support will be provided.

If you're interested in learning more, you can email volunteers@enniscorthycu.ie or call/text 087 1633 693.

Please include your name, address, and contact details.

Closing date for expressions of interest is close of business on Friday, 10th October 2025.

Enniscorthy Credit Union is looking forward to hearing from you. n

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A monthly update from GreenTechHQ We’re delighted to share about two of our exciting upcoming events here at GreenTechHQ in Enniscorthy – Ireland’s Business, Sustainability & Innovation Centre of Excellence.

BUSINESS BEYOND BORDERS: USA Are you ready to take your business across the Atlantic? We are hosting Business Beyond Borders: USA at GreenTechHQ in Enniscorthy, and you’re invited.

This free event is all about helping South East entrepreneurs and SMEs understand what it really takes to succeed in the US market.

From choosing the right landing state to structuring your company, navigating tax, hiring, and building sales channels, you’ll leave with a clear action plan for growth.

Why attend?  Practical, no-nonsense advice for Irish SMEs.  Insights tailored to first-time US expansion.  Networking with fellow ambitious businesses from Wexford and the South East.  Direct guidance on funding, compliance, and market entry strategies.

Why the South East?

The region is building real momentum. With Wexford’s strategic location and Rosslare Europort’s growing role in international trade, local businesses are better placed than ever to scale globally. This event is about ensuring the South East is firmly on the map when it comes to international expansion.

Featured Speakers & Experts, and Booking for this free event: For full details on the nine national and international speakers, and to reserve your free place: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/businessbeyond-borders-usa-tickets-1558884699099 n

LEADING FROM THE INSIDE OUT True leadership means showing up with strength and clarity across every part of your life. This half-day experience offers a strategic reset for leaders navigating high-pressure environments. Step back from the noise and take stock of your most powerful leadership asset: yourself.

Who It’s For: C-suite executives and senior leaders who want to lead with greater clarity, focus, and impact - without burning out.

What You’ll Gain: • Clarity on Energy & Performance Drivers - Identify what’s draining you and what’s driving high-impact results.

• The 12 Pillars Self-Assessment: Evaluate your wellbeing across Physical, Mental, Emotional, Social, Spiritual, Community, Creative, Financial, Work, Purpose, Environmental, and Digital domains.

• Strategic Insights for Leadership Performance - Understand how your well-being affects your decision-making, presence, and ability to lead through change.

• Science-Backed Reset Tools - Learn practical tools to reset mentally and emotionally to boost clarity, calm, and emotional and mental fitness.

• A Personal Action Plan - Walk away with a clear, actionable roadmap to sustain performance and wellbeing professionally and personally.

The programme will be facilitated by Calodagh McCumiskey, MB, FAIBF – a wellbeing specialist, speaker, coach and award-winning entrepreneur who specialises in helping people and teams thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.

You can read more about Calodagh’s work at: www.calodagh.com n

GreenTech HQ, Enniscorthy Technology Park, Y21 A9K8, (086) 1914804, info@greentechhq.com, https://greentechhq.com

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Will we ever make it to the opera?

Not without a late bus – NO! In 2023, I started a petition (which has recently been made public once more: https://chng.it/4PBN42kxZJ) as it became abundantly clear to me just how many individuals were silently restricted from leaving their town to do anything at all after tea-time, leading to a sense of isolation.

This included, but was not limited to: 1. Working/job shifts between 6-11pm.

2. Cinema showings after 8pm.

3. Sports matches in the evenings.

4. Evening exercise, wellness classes.

5. Night courses in education.

6. Gigs/live events, Wexford Arts Centre shows/plays, even the opera! The list goes on.

The Fleadh Cheoil saw the addition of late buses to accommodate visitors, yet our own county's residents, lest owning a car, or parents to taxi them around, are left with little choice but to stay home, keep local, or pay an arm and a leg for a taxi home.

In 2022, that taxi home was €45 at 6pm from Wexford to Enniscorthy, it is likely €60 approx now.

In this world climate, cost of living and the already underserved mental health supports in the county, isolation is even more dangerous especially to those who suffer with the silent killer, depression.

Yet there is the other side to this need of a late bus – those who do need to venture out, being left to wait until 01.30am for a Wexford Bus. As a woman, I have personally experienced Wexford town at night, I am sad to say it’s not pretty, being alone walking down Main St and dodging approaches is bad enough, but standing at a bus stop for 2-3 hours as one hasn’t the funds to remain in a pub or eatery (or afford the taxi whose driver is yelling over to query if its needed) is a neon sign post for potential unwanted advances.

The gaps between the Wexford Bus 740 route Autumn/Winter last bus service leaving at 7.30pm which began again on September 17th (a 9.30pm service is run during a Summer schedule only) and the 01.30am bus is leaving 6 prime hours un-

Check out the petition: https://chng.it/4PBN42kxZJ serviced and, naturally, booking online for a seat on that 01.30am bus is essential being an airport service, costing the traveller an extra €6, even when holding a Free Travel Pass!

A later train service from Irish Rail was added Mon-Fri with a last train at 9.35pm and on Saturday it leaves at 6.29pm which still does not serve those leaving work or an event at 10-11pm, along with adding costs as likely the individual had no train option heading in, as we all know how regular they are!

Bus Éireann’s Route 2 and Expressway has a last bus service leaving Wexford at 8.30pm.

So, I guess that means not getting to go to the opera, or the cinema, or taking that night course, or more importantly, being unable to work at night in Wexford town without a car.

Let us go on a journey of a woman attending a film premiere in the Wexford Arts Centre as the film’s Executive Producer.

She meets up with cast and crew at the venue, the viewing was well received, we wished to celebrate – quandary, she has no lift home, that was the second spike of anxiety that night – deciding that most appeared to be out for the night, which was stated as a bit of a pub crawl, one decided to wait it out for the 01.30am service home.

The best laid plans ends the same, by 10.45pm the group had dispersed, so walking down the quays towards the bus she went, seeking any venue that felt

‘safe’ or fitting – soon stood at the bus stop by 10.55pm.

2.5 hours in chilled weather, rainy, dressed for a gala, she stood counting minutes like they were pennies, of which she wished she had, just to sit into Burger Mac. The third taxi man waves across the road, to be refused within the first 20 minutes, then comes the loud boisterous drunk ‘talk to anyone’ intimidating types, who is the prime target?

You guessed it.

Although this did not see a negative ending this time, it is always sadly a risk, a chance of threat that should not be forced on us for a lack of public transport services when required to attend a work function.

The bus driver on said occasion only let me on as I was getting off in Enniscorthy, ergo, always needing to book in advance at extra cost.

I know, in the days of yore, a good ole walk home was the only way – but when there are Wexford Bus, Bus Éireann, Irish Rail and Local Link services… then surely an 1111.30pm service could be put in place.

Even just from Wexford to Gorey, or ThursSun. So, on the grounds of equal measure of importance, those being, mental health from isolation, safety concerns from lack of bus services – it is paramount to gain a late night bus service.

Please sign and share the petition.

– DORN SIMON

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First day at St Aidan’s, Enniscorthy

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

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PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

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SHOULD THE PRICE TO SERVE INCLUDE THREATS OR DEATH The world that we know it is changing and not for the better. We have seen a marked increase of extreme views on both sides of the spectrum. The far right has mobilised on a global scale and is now making an impact globally.

I am focusing on how they are impacting on people’s lives. I am referring to deliberately creating division in communities. I am talking about intolerance and divisiveness starting to be the norm.

There has being a presence of far-right ethos growing in many parts of the world for the last decade but recently it has been spotlighted by the influence within the Trump administration. We have seen Trump and J.D. Vance lecturing Europe on free speech while culling free speech on American chat shows and in the press.

Ireland has not being immune from this type of influence. We have seen groups from around the globe targeting Ireland on social media platforms. The agenda is to fester hatred and anger and steer the narrative to create chaos so that they can move in to the space being created.

All this is well and good just to document. Some would say that it is a legit form of politics but it is a form of bullying that has spiralled in some cases to threats of violence and even death. This is where I have a problem with it.

We all have seen how heightening tensions has caused unacceptable outcomes. We saw democracy attacked when the American Capital Building in Washington was stormed. This was incited by a speech by Trump that lit the fuse for violence and the death of a police officer. When Trump returned, he pardoned some of them sending out the message that it is ok to impose your will and beliefs onto others or risk violence. What happened next was the division and hatred continued until two Democratic senators lost their lives.

Lately we saw a Republican influencer shot at a rally in an American university. What Trump did was not to tone down the rethoric but to spout hatred for his opponents

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WITH KEITH DOYLE thus fanning the flames. England has seen its share of sorrow in this area also.

Two English MPs have lost their lives in sepatrate stabbing attacks in their offices attending to their constituents. All the signs are that Ireland is at a crossroads with worrying signs of late.

Ireland has had a special relationship with their elected reps since the foundation of this state. You can meet them in the street or at a match or in the pub. There is plenty of opportunity to talk to them and even vent your displeasure if you so wish. This is fair game and expected.

Hell, I still get comments to me of a nasty nature six years after leaving office. What is totally unacceptable is people standing

outside the then Minister of State Paul Kehoe’s house, balaclava up, with only his wife and Young kids at home. When you also hear that there are threats against Simon Harris and young members of his family. When you see people surrounding a minister’s car in effect keeping her hostage, one has to ask who in their right mind would serve the public with these disgusting consequences. This is the point, the far right agenda is to force people out of politics and step into the vacuum created. It is no longer an excuse when caught to suggest that you would not have carried out the threat. It also appears to me that using social media in this way is a form of cowardice. I much prefer to face my accusers. I respect them more.

There has been the use of the Irish Flag in this debate. The flag is being weaponised and its use on light poles in some communities is also dividing communities. This is being used as a symbol of resistance to immigration policies or in some cases immigration itself. Taking down the flags will give reason to stoke up more anger. It is the national flag but it is being used in a manner that can be disrespectful to the flag. There are protocols for the flag. Up to recent years, one should take down the flag at dusk and put it up at dawn. It has now changed that you can leave it up overnight providing it is lit up. The other disrespectful issue is writing anything on the flag. The Irish flag was hijacked from the Irish people for far too long in the past and became a symbol of sympathy towards paramilitary activity. It took an English man, Jack Charlton, to enable the Irish people to reclaim the flag with pride without political undertones. Some has described the raising of the flag as a symbol of nationalism only. I have observed the Tricolour flown in Belfast and in London at far-right rallies alongside the Union Jack with Cabra and Clondalkin written all over them. Can anyone explain what our nationalist forefathers that fought for Irish freedom from England and the Union Jack would think of that irony? n

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Enniscorthy farmer LETTER TO THE EDITOR wins national award Dear Editor,

With National Brain Tumour Awareness Week coming up from October 20-26, I’d like to draw the attention of your readers to a new awareness campaign being mounted by Brain Tumour Ireland.

As a paediatric oncologist, I hear too often that parents have presented their child multiple times with symptoms and signs before a diagnosis of a brain or spinal tumour is made.

While this doesn’t necessarily mean that the outcome is worse, it can be, and a child or young person may have, unfortunately, lost vital functions by the time the diagnosis is made.

Against this backdrop, Brain Tumour Ireland has developed a new Heads Up guide to draw attention to the different types of symptoms in babies, children and teenagers.

Cork's Aileen Sheehan was last month named 2025 FBD Young Farmer of the Year, the first female winner in the competition's history. One of the runnersup and the winner of the ‘Other Enterprises’ category was Enniscorthy’s Isaac Wheelock, a tillage farmer.

This year marks the 27th anniversary of the FBD Young Farmer of the Year Awards, which were held at the Killashee Hotel in Naas, Co. Kildare.

The aim of the competition is to recog-

nise and reward the top young farmers in the country. Entrants are judged according to a number of criteria, including farm business initiative and innovation, levels of farm efficiency and enterprise quality, farm safety and environmental protection awareness, and agricultural knowledge. The judges commended the high calibre of contestants this year, and congratulated all who participated at every level of the competition. n

We want to remind GPs, doctors and Emergency Department staff, that children can get brain tumours and, while it is rare, brain and central nervous system tumours are the most common childhood cancer, alongside leukaemia, and to keep this in mind when reviewing symptoms.

It’s also worth parents considering asking the question of a doctor “can you reassure me that this isn’t a brain tumour?”

Brain tumour symptoms can include persistent vomiting, recurring headache, problems with balance and co-ordination, behaviour change, fits or seizures, abnormal eye movements, blurred or double vision/loss of vision, and a wry or stiff neck/head tilt.

In babies, there may be increasing head circumference, while other children may experience early, delayed or arrested puberty.

The guide is being published to coincide with a webinar, “Heads Up: supporting children with a brain tumour” focusing on how to approach conversations with a newly-diagnosed child and their siblings, as well as navigating going back to school following treatment. The webinar will take place on Monday October 20 from 6-7.30pm.

To download the new Heads Up guide, or to register for the event, visit www.braintumourireland.com Yours sincerely

Isaac Wheelock, third from left, with his awards.

Dr Jane Pears, Consultant Paediatric Oncologist, C/O Brain Tumour Ireland, Carmichael House, North Brunswick Street, Dublin 7.

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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. n

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. n

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Edermine Ferry’s new workboat

Edermine Ferry Rowing Club’s new workboat was officially launched by Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy on 5th September, 2025. The new boat was purchased with support from the LAWPRO Community Water Development Fund 2025.

LAWPRO is the Local Authority Waters Programme and it awarded a grant of €16,400 for the new boat, engine and trailer to enable more regular and effective litter picks on the River Slaney. Their support is a fantastic investment in local community action for the river.

The boat launch was strongly supported by the local community,

Enniscorthy Municipal District Councillors, local TDs, and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne.

Edermine Ferry Rowing Club works closely with Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, local kayaking business GoPaddle.ie, and Slaney Search & Rescue, to carry out catchment-based river clean-ups. This year these groups along with LAWPRO teamed up for two major River Slaney clean-ups, the most recent of which took place on 28th September.

Edermine Ferry Rowing Club and its partners deserve huge credit for their dedication to caring for the Slaney. n

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A regular series by the team at Enniscorthy East Community Development Follow on Facebook: ‘Enniscorthy East Community Development’

Our friends and colleagues in the Enniscorthy Community Alliance (ECA) recently launched ‘The Shannon Way’ project – a dynamic community-led effort to rejuvenate Enniscorthy East through environmental and public space improvements.

The Alliance is also behind the recent takeover of the Captain Wafer Hall and work is slowly progressing to turn it into a community hub which the local community will be able to use. See photos opposite.

We’ll keep our readers posted on both these projects as work progresses. n

Enniscorthy East Community Development Association Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/EEastCommunity Eastside Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/320813591438762 Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TempleshannonCommunityandChildcareCentre n

Hill-

Page 40 - 2nd October 2025

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10.30am

7PM EVERY MONDAY NIGHT

2nd October 2025 - Page 41

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Dublin-Rosslare train woes Sinn Féin TD Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin (Wicklow–Wexford) has called on the NTA and the Minister for Transport to invest in additional carriages on the Dublin–Rosslare rail route.

Deputy Ó Súilleabháin said the issue of overcrowding on the Dublin–Rosslare commuter train must be addressed as a matter of urgently.

“I was contacted again this week by a commuter who travels from Rathdrum to Dublin daily for work. They described the conditions on the train as being like a ‘sardine in a can’.

“By the time the train reaches Rathdrum station, there are no seats available, and commuters are forced to stand all the way to Dublin. That’s approximately three hours a day standing! The train is cramped and overheated. One com-

muter nearly fainted this week due to the heat and overcrowding.

“There have also been instances where, upon arrival in Greystones, with no DART service available, passengers are encouraged to board the already overcrowded commuter train from Rosslare.

cuse. In the UK, they simply don’t open the rear carriage doors at shorter platforms and announce this in advance. Our party has previously raised this issue.

Teachta Ó Súilleabháin continued: “How are people with disabilities—especially invisible disabilities—expected to endure this kind of journey?

“We need to get cars off the road and encourage more people to use public transport, but if it’s not up to standard, people in rural communities will have no choice but to drive.

“The logical solution is to add more carriages to the morning and evening trains to accommodate workers.

“The Minister for Transport, the NTA, and Irish Rail need to sit down and sort this mess out once and for all.

“I’m aware that some platforms at certain stations can’t accommodate longer trains. I don’t accept this as a valid ex-

“I will continue to raise the issue of public transport for my constituency in the Wicklow–Wexford area.” n

“This is completely unsafe and unacceptable.”

Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin TD

Enniscorthy man to climb Kilimanjaro for charity David Connolly

Enniscorthy’s David Connolly will be climb-

where he can just be himself. Active Connec-

of their actions, and to grow both personally

ing Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest moun-

tions has been that place. Through their in-

and socially. Their work doesn't just impact

tain in Africa, in aid of Active Connections,

credible adventure therapy programmes,

the children – it transforms the lives of the

a national organisation that has a camp op-

they've given him the chance to mix with

families too.

erating in Blackwater which takes care of

peers, try new things, and most importantly,

kids with autism and additional needs,

experience joy and belonging. He absolutely

doing outdoor activities and watersports to

loves his time at camp. For us as parents, that

funded, every cent raised will go directly to

give them a safe place to connect.

means the world, it gives us a little breathing

Active Connections so they can continue to

space, knowing he's happy and thriving.

provide these life-changing opportunities for

David’s son George has autism and has been

“My climb up Kilimanjaro is completely self-

young people and their families. Every dona-

attending the goup for about one year now.

“Active Connections is a not-for-profit organ-

David says, “This is more than just a climb for

isation that provides adventure therapy pro-

me. Our son George has autism, and like so

grammes across Ireland. They help young

many families in similar situations, we some-

people with behavioural and developmental

Check out: https://www.idonate.ie/fund-

times struggle to find safe, supportive spaces

challenges build confidence, take ownership

raiser/ClimbingKilimanjaroAdventure n

Page 42 - 2nd October 2025

tion, no matter how big or small, will directly impact children like my son.”

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Wexford Local Development announces €680k in LEADER Funding Wexford Local Development is proud to announce the approval of over €680,000 in LEADER Programme funding, with the latest round supporting eleven inspiring projects that are helping rural communities across County Wexford to thrive.

This July’s funding approvals reflect a powerful investment in community-led local development, with the majority of funding going directly to community groups working to enhance local spaces, services, and social cohesion. From refurbishing vital community centres to supporting social enterprises and local food producers, these projects are not just about infrastructure – they’re about empowering people, strengthening local identity, and creating places where communities can come together, grow, and flourish.

Eight of the eleven funded projects are led by local community organisations, each working to improve the spaces that serve as the heart of their towns and villages. These include: •

Adamstown, Kilmyshall and Rosslare Strand Community Centres receiving awards for refurbishment and energy improvement costs.

•

Tomhaggard Social Centre and St Joseph’s Community Centre in Wexford Town have also been awarded funding for essential upgrades.

•

The Rock Social Club in Gorey has re-

Name of Group/Business

Project

Grant Amount Awarded

Adamstown Community Centre Kilmyshall Hall Committee Rosslare Community Development Assoc Clg. St Aidan's Community Hall The Rock Community Social centre Tomhaggard Community Development Group Wexford Light Opera Society Clg. St Joseph’s Community Centre Helen Blake Community Group Paul Kennedy O'Neill Foods Ltd

Community centre refurbishments Community centre refurbishments Community centre refurbishments Community centre refurbishments Community centre refurbishments Community centre refurbishments Community centre refurbishments Community centre refurbishments Materials for vessel for social enterprise Equipment for rural glamping business Equipment for rural food business

€69,802.50 €34,603.30 €44,949.97 €28,819.92 €142,500.00 €39,455.43 €162,993.09 €39,795.93 €26,558.22 €46,854.40 €89,706.58

ceived significant support to construct an extension to their community hall and upgrade the original structure to create a hall which can meet the needs of an area of Gorey with considerable population growth.

•

Wexford Light Opera Society refurbishment project will support both community arts and broader social engagement in Clonard Village where no community building currently exists.

These investments will help ensure that community centres remain vibrant, inclusive, and resilient spaces for generations to come.

Funding has also been awarded to the Helen Blake Community Group in Fethard-on-Sea, whose social enterprise project will provide materials for a community vessel; a unique initiative blending heritage, sustainability, and social impact.

Other approvals include support for rural tourism and food production, such as: •

Paul Kennedy’s Glenogue Farm, a luxury glamping business, located near Coolgreaney in north Wexford, promoting wellness-based tourism and rural hospitality.

•

O’Neill Foods Ltd in Enniscorthy whose funding award has the potential to increase employment from 25 FTE to 28 FTE, with the creation of two fulltime and two part-time positions, with increased efficiencies and new product development enabling higher production volumes.

Michael Wall, Chairman of Wexford Local Development, stated: “This recent allocation shows that community and business development is alive and well throughout County Wexford. WLD is proud to support these community-led efforts that are shaping a brighter, more connected future.”

The LEADER Programme, delivered by Wexford Local Development, continues to be a catalyst for community empowerment, rural innovation, and sustainable development. Community groups and niche rural businesses interested in applying for future funding can learn more at www.wld.ie/leader.

Amenity and Reflective Park, Rathnure Community Development Group.

Wexford Local Development has opened calls for funding for biodiversity action plans and climate action plans from community groups and development groups.

Please ‘subscribe’ on its website for all calls information and LEADER updates.

And see page 47 in this issue. n

2nd October 2025 - Page 43

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Carraig Briste and Killegney Early Years – first day at school, 1st September 2025 PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Above left: Killegney Early Years, fixing her hair before she goes on the swing, Lucilla Sheridan.

Above centre: Carraig Briste Early Years, pet dog Bailey with Lily Connell.

Above right: Killegney high flyer Emma Parle.

Left: Eadaoin Carroll at Killegney.

Right: Climbing the trees at Killegney, Cameron Kehoe.

Below left: Making friends at Killegney, Reique Perkiss and pet dog Bailey.

Below centre: “I’m not sure about this lemon drink!” – Eve Moran.

Below right: Carraig Briste proprietor Orlagh Doyle with Isabelle Murphy.

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PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Top left: Relaxing at Carraig Briste.

Top right: Shea Kehoe and Orlagh Doyle, proprietor, at Killegney.

Above left: Carraig Briste, Orlagh Doyle, proprietor, with Jack and Ronan Keane.

Above right: Carraig Briste, India Nolan, Ceaimhe Redmond and Ted Delaney.

Left: Killegney, Brian Phelan loves the tractors.

Right: Carraig Briste, Charlotte, Joshua and Ben Murphy.

Below left: Carraig Briste, Orlagh Doyle, Joshua Murphy and Athus Pinn.

Below centre: Carraig Briste, Fiadh Doran with Orlagh Doyle.

2nd October 2025 - Page 45

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Sustainable

Enniscorthy

A monthly column

This month Sustainable Enniscorthy has a guest contributor answering questions about Palm Oil’s negative environmental and ethical impact.

What is palm oil?

Palm oil is an edible vegetable oil derived from the fruit of the palm oil tree. It’s semi-solid at room temperature, which gives it a variety of uses in food, cosmetic, and fuel industries.

Where does it come from?

The largest producers of palm oil are Indonesia and Malaysia, who account for 85% of global production.

What’s the problem?

One of the major issues with the production of palm oil is the massive negative environmental impact it has.

Deforestation is necessary for palm oil production, with the industry now encompassing around 6.8 million hectares, which is roughly the size of the Republic of Ireland! Furthermore, nearly all palm oil is grown on lands that were once moist tropical forests.

Indonesia’s tropical forests grow on peatland, which isn’t a problem when the soil is wet, as it stops the peat from decomposing and producing carbon. However, when this land is used

to produce palm oil, the soil dries out and the peat rapidly decomposes, releasing carbon into the air. Peatlands globally store 550 billion tons of carbon. Emissions from land-use, including agriculture, deforestation and peatland degradation, account for a quarter of all global emissions, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Palm oil production also has a negative ethical aspect. Check out Amnesty International’s article on the workers who work on palm oil plantations at: https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/n ews/2016/11/palm-oil-global-brandsprofiting-from-child-and-forced-labour/. The work is hard, physical, and dangerous. The workers are paid as low as $2.50 per day, and children as young as eight have been found working on these plantations.

What does this mean for me as a consumer?

Palm oil is in most of the processed

Source: https://www.worldfinance.com/markets/why-indonesia-urgently-needs-to-address-the-burning-issue-of-palm-oil

Page 46 - 2nd October 2025

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

and ultra processed foods you see in supermarkets. It’s used by companies because it increases the shelf life of food, but it’s also much cheaper to use than higher quality ingredients. Take Cadbury’s chocolate for example.

Have you noticed it doesn’t taste as good anymore? Cadbury’s chocolate in the UK and ROI market now has 20% cocoa solids, so it can’t even be considered chocolate anymore! Plus, instead of using whole milk, they’ve switched to using palm oil. Their prices have gone up, but their production costs have gone down, so as consumers we’re getting a poorer quality product for an increased cost! Check out @sophiemorrisofficial on TikTok to find out more about how we as consumers can make better, healthier, and more sustainable and ethical choices when it comes to our weekly shop.

Source: https://www.worldfinance.com/markets/why-indonesia-urgently-needsto-address-the-burning-issue-of-palmoil n

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Community A new home for Enniscorthy’s funding available through LEADER Hope Centre

Wexford’s LEADER Programme is open to expressions of interest for funding projects in the following areas:  Youth spaces €200,000 budget  Digital technologies €80,000 budget  Innovative projects which enable sustainable living, €75,000 budget  Biodiversity action plans €50,000 budget  Climate action plans €40,000 budget For full details: https://www.wld.ie/23-27-leader-funding-forcommunities/latest-community-call-autumn-2025/ n

Halloween costume swap Thursday 9th October 7pm - 8.30pm.

Join the Halloween Costume Swap Event, St Senan's Primary School, Enniscorthy, Y21 EV70.

7pm - 7.30pm: Bring Halloween costumes to St Senan's Primary School and swap for a voucher for the same number of pieces.

7.30pm - 8.00pm: Repair demonstration.

Wexford Halloween Costume Swap St. Senan’s Primary School Enniscorthy Y21 EV7 Thursday 9th October 7.00 pm - 8.30 pm 7.00 pm - 7.30 pm Bring Halloween costumes to the school and swap for a voucher for the same number of pieces 7.30 pm - 8.00 pm Repair Demonstration 8.00 pm - 8.30 pm

r cula etCir G s t e #L

Let’s Get Swapping!!

8.00pm - 8.30pm: Get Swapping!!! n

2nd October 2025 - Page 47

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A SPOT HERE CAN BE YOURS FROM €20

ENNISCORTHY FÁILTE WELCOMING UKRAINIAN REFUGEES CONTACT DETAILS: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthyfailte Email: enniscorthyfailte@gmail.com

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Phone: 087-7946277. Email: caroline@changinglanes.ie

This size ad can be yours for just €20+vat.

Telephone Frank at 087-2403310 for more details.

Page 48 - 2nd October 2025

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

ra; Naíon Irish age Langu ool h c s Pre a l p “Cú il”!

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Clonhaston, Enniscorthy Contact Billy at (087) 2749493 Fresh Chicken  Whole Chickens  Fillets  Kievs Maryland  Mexican Wraps  Turkey Breast _____________________________________________________ PARTY FOOD: Goujons, Wedges, Chips, Cocktail Sausages, Prawns in Filo Pastry, Chicken Drumsticks, Mini Spring Rolls _____________________________________________________ BARBECUE: SteakBurgers, Chicken Kebabs, Sausages _____________________________________________________

And many more items at wholesale prices

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Slaney aDS

+VAT PER ISSUE. CALL 087-2403310.

GUTTERS, FASCIA & SOFFIT Cleaned and Repaired Contact John 086-3298522

Memorial Cards available at

C&R PRINT Templeshannon Quay, Enniscorthy

Call us on 053 9235295

This size ad can be yours for just €20+vat.

Mind yyour Mind our Mind: In Person, In Person, Online or Telephone Telephone Appoint ents Available Available Contact: Séamus McCormack, Psychotherapist BA (Hons) Counselling & Psychotherapy

Telephone Frank at 087-2403310 for more details.

Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford

089 - 4365066 imlisteningwx@gmail.com

2nd October 2025 - Page 49

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Enniscorthy Toastmasters Oulart storytelling house

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. n

At Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart, a great welcome awaits all, with good music, songs, stories and plenty of craic, tea and refreshments served. Eircode: Y25 YP70.

For details of upcoming events keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/bygonedayshouseofstories n

ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS NEEDS YOU! Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers meet on Sunday mornings to collect litter and tidy up around the town.

Volunteers are always needed and welcomed!

So if you are sick of seeing rubbish on your road, street, estate or elsewhere in the community, please contact: 053 923 6518 or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com Keep up to date on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown Let's all help to make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener! n

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.

Page 50 - 2nd October 2025

Report Illegal Dumping: 053 919 6000 Email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie Website: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/waste-andrecycling/report-illegal-dumping

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Open Day in Castlebridge On Friday, 5th September 2025, the Castlebridge Community Hub opened its doors for a very special Open Day, welcoming families, friends, and neighbours from across the local community. This is part of Reach Ability’s 50th Anniversary. The event provided a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together, meet the individuals who attend the Hub, and learn more about the wide range of support and services offered at this vibrant centre.

One Year in Their New Home This Open Day was extra special as it marked one year since the opening of the new Hub in Castlebridge. Over the past twelve months, the warm welcome and continued support from the local community have made a huge difference. The Reach Ability Castlebridge Hub is proud to play an active role in Castlebridge life as a member of the Castlebridge Tidy Towns group, the Castlebridge Community Garden, and the Castlebridge Town First Committee.

From volunteering and creative arts to life skills, cooking, music, and performing, the Hub has grown into a place where people can connect, learn, and develop in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Guests and Community Support The Hub was honoured to be joined on the day by Minister James Browne TD, Senator Cathal Byrne, and Cllr Robbie

Staples. Their presence and continued support mean so much to the individuals and families connected to Reach Ability.

Their encouragement highlights the importance of community-led initiatives and inclusive spaces.

The Castlebridge Community Hub is part of Reach Ability (formerly CWCW Enniscorthy). Reach Ability is proud to be celebrating 50 years of providing services to individuals with disability in Co. Wexford. Throughout 2025, it is marking this milestone with a programme of events highlighting its history, achievements, and the many people who have shaped its story since 1975.

One of the highlights will be the launch of a special exhibition, “50 Years of

Reach Ability”, taking place on Friday, 17th October, at Bellefield, Enniscorthy.

This exhibition invites past and present friends, staff, and community members to come together, reminisce, and reflect on their shared journey. It promises to be a meaningful celebration of five decades of connection, growth, and impact.

Thank You Reach Ability would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended the Castlebridge Open Day, as well as to the wider Castlebridge community for their ongoing support. It was a day filled with warmth, laughter, and community spirit, and the Hub looks forward to many more years of working together to create opportunities and connections. n

Scholarship Draw now open 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. n

2nd October 2025 - Page 51

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Red Cross gathering

Enniscorthy Red Cross.

Enniscorthy and Gorey Red Cross Units spent a day in St John’s in Enniscorthy recently. The day was primarily an education day bringing members up to date on various processes, policies and procedures.

A big part of the day was also dedicated to thanking members for the time and effort they provide to the Irish Red Cross and the greater community of Co. Wexford through their commitment to volunteering.

There were many awards on the day for newer members with three, five, six, ten and thirteen years service awards presented, and then thanking some members for much longer dedication to the Irish Red Cross: Fiona Lane was awarded for

Above: John Kavanagh presenting Paddy Redmond with his award for 35 years of service.

Right: Paddy Redmond presenting Sally Flynn with her award for 40 years of service.

Page 52 - 2nd October 2025

20 years, David O’Connor for 29 years, Ray Lacey and Catriona Whelan for 30 years, Caroline Kavanagh for 32 years, Paddy Redmond for 35 years, Breda Coughlan Roche for 39 years, John Kavanagh and Sally Flynn were both awarded for an amazing 40 years of service each.

Awards were also presented to members from both units who put in a huge amount of time and effort during the Covid 19 Pandemic and for the recent National Services day.

If you are interested in joining Irish Red Cross or need any First Aid training, please get in touch: treasurer.wexford@irishredcross.com www.redcross.ie n

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Comhairle Contae

053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie

Loch Garman

Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Wexford County Council Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2014, Section 15 (1) To:

The tenant of the dwelling, Property No 9297 at No 4 Marconi Park, Cherryorchard, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford.

WHEREAS You hold, from the County Council of the County of Wexford, Housing Authority pursuant to the Housing Act 1966 (hereinafter called the Authority), the dwelling No 9297 at No 4, Marconi Park, Cherryorchard, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford a dwelling provided under the said Act as tenant from week to week and WHEREAS:•

•

•

Wexford County Council has reason to believe that No 9297, at No 4 Marconi Park, Cherryorchard, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford is unoccupied and that the household does not intend to occupy the dwelling as its normal place of residence.

Wexford County Council do hereby require that you confirm within 28 days of the service of this notice that it is your intention to occupy the dwelling known as No 9297, at No 4 Marconi Park, Cherryorchard, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford as your normal place of residence and Take note that after the expiration of 28 days from the service of this notice, Wexford County Council is satisfied that you do not intend to occupy No 9297, at No 4 Marconi Park, Cherryorchard, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford as your normal place of residence.

(i) You have not indicated that you intend to reside in the dwelling, and (ii) Wexford County Council is satisfied that the dwelling known as No 9297 at No 4 Marconi Park, Cherryorchard, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, is unoccupied, and that you do not intend to occupy the dwelling as your normal place of residence, Wexford County Council shall serve further notice on you bringing your Tenancy to an immediate end and resume possession of No 9297 at No 4 Marconi Park, Cherryorchard, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford.

Signed:

Martina Donoghue Administrative Officer, Wexford County Council.

Dated:

17th Day of September 2025.

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

‘Trees for Wexford’ Campaign 2025 Applications are now being sought for Wexford County Council’s ‘Trees for Wexford Campaign’. If you are a voluntary community group, residents’ association or school and interested in receiving free trees, an application can be submitted by logging onto www.wexfordcoco.ie/trees. Please note online applications only.

Closing date for receipt of online applications is Friday 3rd October 2025 @ 4pm.

If you require further information regarding this scheme, please do not hesitate to contact the Environment Section at (053) 9196000.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Feachtas ‘Crainn do Loch Garman’ 2025 Táthar ag lorg iarratas anois d'Fheachtas 'Crainn do Loch Garman' Chomhairle Contae Loch Garman. Má tá tú i do ghrúpa pobail deonach, i do chumann cónaitheorí nó i do scoil agus suim agat crainn saor in aisce a fháil, is féidir iarratas a chur isteach trí logáil isteach ar www.wexfordcoco.ie/trees. Tabhair faoi deara iarratais ar líne amháin.

Spriocdháta chun iarratais ar líne a fháil ná Aoine 3ú Deireadh Fómhair 2025 @ 4in.

Má theastaíonn tuilleadh eolais uait maidir leis an scéim seo, ná bíodh drogall ort teagmháil a dhéanamh leis an Rannóg Comhshaoil ag (053) 9196000.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Wexford County Council Public Consultation on a Pilot Project to use CCTV for the purposes of Litter and Waste Management Enforcement Wexford County Council is undertaking a public consultation on the provision of CCTV cameras and is implementing the installation of CCTV for the prevention of litter and illegal dumping at the following Bring Bank Sites – Site 1.

Site 2.

Site 3.

Site 4.

Site 5.

Site 6.

Tesco Bring Banks, Distillery Road, Wexford Town.

Tesco Bring Banks, Gorey Corporation Lands, Gorey Town.

Tesco Bring Banks, Hewittsland, New Ross Town.

Bring Banks, Old Railway Depot, Wellingtonbridge Village.

Priory Lane, New Ross.

Turret Rocks, Esmonde Road, Enniscorthy Town.

The CCTV cameras are for the sole purpose of preventing litter and illegal dumping and the enforcement of the Litter Pollution Act, 1997, and the Waste Management Act 1996. This initiative will adhere to the Codes of Practice for the Operation of CCTV for the Purposes of Prevention, Detection and Prosecution of Litter and Waste Offences in compliance with the Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022 and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Your feedback is important to this process, and we look forward to hearing from you. All submissions will be considered before CCTV Cameras are finalised.

Outside office hours call: 053 919 6000 Register on www.mapalerter.com for free text and email alerts about service disruptions in your locality

Planning app. lists available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning

2nd October 2025 - Page 53

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Comhairle Contae

053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie

Loch Garman

Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Submissions/Observations: Wexford Council hereby invites any interested parties to make submissions or observations regarding the proposed installation and use of CCTV cameras at the above locations, either electronically via the website or in writing to the Environment Department between Tuesday 23rd September 2025 until Thursday 23rd October (both dates inclusive). The deadline for receipt of all submissions is 4.30pm on 23rd October 2025.

In respect of making a submission or observation please note the following: Wexford County Council is subject to the provisions of the Data Protection Act (as amended) and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). To assist us in complying with Data Protection and GDPR please include your name and contact details (and where relevant, details of any organisation, community group or company etc., which you represent), on a separate sheet to the content of your submission/ observation. This processing of your personal data is lawful under Article 6 (1)(e) of the GDPR regulations. The Environment Data Protection Policy is available on the Council website.

Submissions or observations may be made either: (a) In writing to: Environment Department, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford (Correspondence to be marked Implementation of CCTV Cameras). or (b) In electronic format on the dedicated website at https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie Please make your submission by one medium only i.e., in hard copy or via the website.

Eamonn Hore, Director of Services. _______________________________________________________

Comhairliúchán Poiblí Chomhairle ó Chontae Loch Garman ar Thionscadal Píolótach TCI a úsáid le haghaidh forfheidhmiú ar Bhainistíochta Bruscar agus Dramhaíola Tá Comhairle Contae Loch Garman i mbun comhairliúcháin phoiblí maidir le soláthar ceamaraí TCI agus tá suiteáil TCI á cur i bhfeidhm chun iarracht a dhéanamh bruscar agus dumpáil mhídhleathach a chosc ag na hIonadaí Fágtha seo a leanas: Áit 1. Ionad Fágtha Tesco, Bóthar na Drioglainne, Baile Loch Garman. Áit 2. Ionad Fágtha Tesco, Fearann Bardais Ghuaire, Guaire. Áit 3. Ionad Fágtha Tesco, Fearann Hiúéid, Ros Mhic Thriúin. Áit 4. Ionad Fágtha, an Sean-Stáisiún, Sráidbhaile Droichead Eoin. Áit 5. Lána na Prióireachta, Ros Mhic Thriúin. Áit 6. Cloch an Túirín, Bóthar Easmainn, Inis Córthaidh.

Is an t-aon chuspóir na gceamaraí TCI ná bruscar agus dumpáil mhídhleathach a chosc agus Acht um Thruailliú Bruscair, 1997, agus Acht um Bainistiú Dramhaíola, 1996, a fhorfheidhmiú.

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

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Leanfaidh an tionscnamh seo na Cóid Chleachtais maidir le hOibriú TCI chun Cosc, Brath agus Ionchúiseamh Cionta Bruscair agus Dramhaíola i gcomhréir leis an Acht um Gheilleagar Ciorclach agus Forálacha Ilghnéitheacha 2022 agus leis an Acht um Chosaint Sonraí 2018 a éascú.

Tá do chuid aiseolais tábhachtach don phróiseas seo, agus táimid ag tnúth le cloisteáil uait. Breithneoimid ar gach aighneacht sula gcuirfear Ceamaraí TCI i gcrích.

Aighneachtaí/Barúlacha: Tugann Comhairle Contae Loch Garman cuireadh d’aon pháirtithe leasmhara aighneachtaí nó tuairimí a dhéanamh maidir leis an tsuiteáil agus úsáid beartaithe do cheamaraí TCI sna láithreacha thuasluaite. Is féidir na haighneachtaí/barúlacha a seoladh go leictreonach tríd an suíomh gréasáin nó i scríbhinn chuig an Roinn Chomhshaoil idir Dé Máirt an 23 Meán Fómhair 2025 agus Déardaoin an 23 Deireadh Fómhair (dátaí san áireamh).

Is 4.30in ar 23. Deireadh Fómhar 2025 an spriocdháta deiridh chun aighneacht a fháil.

Agus tú i mbun Aighneacht nó Barúil a seoladh, tabhair seo a leanas faoi dhearadh le do thoil: Tá Comhairle Contae Loch Garman faoi réir fhorálacha an Achta um Chosaint Sonraí (arna leasú) agus an Rialacháin Ghinearálta um Chosaint Sonraí (RGCS). Chun cabhrú linn cloí le Cosaint Sonraí agus RGCS, cuir d’ainm agus do shonraí teagmhála (agus, i gcás inarb ábhartha, sonraí aon eagraíochta, grúpa pobail nó cuideachta srl., a ndéanann tú ionadaíocht dóibh), ar bhileog ar leithligh ó ábhar d’aighneachta/d’aighneachta. Tá an phróiseáil seo ar do shonraí pearsanta dleathach faoi Airteagal 6 (1)(e) de na rialacháin RGCS. Tá an Polasaí um Chosaint Sonraí Comhshaoil ar fáil ar shuíomh Gréasáin na Comhairle.

Is féidir aighneachtaí/barúlacha a sheoladh chugainn: (a) I scríbhinn chuig: An Roinn Chomhshaoil, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, Hall an Chontae, an Charraig Leathan, Loch Garman. (b) I bhfoirm leictreonach ar an suímh gréasáin tiomanta ag https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie Déan d’aighneacht trí mheán amháin le do thoil, m.s., i gcóip chrua nó tríd an suíomh gréasáin amháin.

Eamonn Hore, Stiúrthóir Seirbhísí.

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Presidential Election 2025 The Presidential Election will take place on 24th October 2025 Please note that the last date for the receipt of applications to the Register of Electors is Tuesday 7th October 2025, and for Special and Postal voting arrangements, the last date for receipt of applications is Monday 29th September 2025 You can check if you are registered to vote on www.checktheregister.ie

Outside office hours call: 053 919 6000 Register on www.mapalerter.com for free text and email alerts about service disruptions in your locality

Planning app. lists available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning

Slaney aD

Comhairle Contae

053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie

Loch Garman

Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

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

Applications received after Tuesday 7th October 2025 will not be accepted.

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Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post: Temporary Facility Caretaker (Minimum 2 Year Contract) Selection for this post 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 the above post are available from: Customer Service (Block F), Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. Phone (053) 919 6000 or visit our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for the above post is: 5.00pm on Thursday 09th October 2025.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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Fáiltíonn Comhairle Contae Loch Garman roimh iarratasóirí do na poist seo a leanas: Feighlí Áiseanna Sealadach (Conradh 2 Bhliain ar a laghad) Déanfar roghnú don phost seo trí agallamh agus féadfar iarratasóirí a ghearrliostú bunaithe ar iarratais a cuireadh isteach. Féadfar painéil a chruthú óna líonfar folúntais amach anseo.

Environmental Technician Grade I 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 9th October 2025.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post: Executive Architectural Conservation 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 9th October 2025.

This post is part of the Local Authority Heritage Programme, supported by the Heritage Council.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Tá cáilíochtaí, foirmeacha iarratais agus sonraí breise don phost thuasluaite ar fáil ó:

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Seirbhís do Chustaiméirí (Bloc F), Comhairle Chontae Loch Garman, Carricklawn, Loch Garman. Fón (053) 919 6000 nó tabhair cuairt ar ár suíomh gréasáin ag www.wexfordcoco.ie

Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post:

Is é an dáta deiridh chun foirmeacha iarratais chomhlánaithe a fháil don phost thuasluaite: 5.00 i.n. Déardaoin 09ú Deireadh Fómhair 2025.

Assistant Supervisor Community Employment Scheme

Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna Cothroma í Comhairle Chontae Loch Garman.

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Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post: Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

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 this post are available from:

Outside office hours call: 053 919 6000 Register on www.mapalerter.com for free text and email alerts about service disruptions in your locality

Planning app. lists available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning

2nd October 2025 - Page 55

Slaney aD

Comhairle Contae

053 919 6000 www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie

Loch Garman

Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93

Customer Service (Block F), Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford. Phone 053 919 6000 or visit our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for this post is:

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

5.00pm on Thursday, 16th October, 2025.

ID

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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6383239 36/RD/2025

Reference

Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post: Senior Staff 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

Tender Description

Closing Date

Wexford Cycle Schemes: Newtown Road Phase 2 and Phase 3 - Racecourse to Hospital Junction, and Hospital Junction to Bayview

13/10/2025

6390526 37/ENV/2025 Marine Services

03/10/2025

6452849 38/ENV/2025 Redevelopment of Gorey Market House, Gorey, Wexford

08/10/2025

6587794 40/HS/2025

20/10/2025

Housing Maintenance Plumbing Framework 2026-2029 for Wexford County Council

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

Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for this post is: 5.00pm on Thursday 16th October 2025.

Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

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

Location

Environmental Worker – 2 positions

Enniscorthy

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 9a.m – 5p.m. or Tracey Begley, CE Scheme Supervisor WCC on (087) 0029702 during office hours 9a.m – 5p.m. or email ceswexfordnorth@wexfordcoco.ie The closing date for applications is Friday 17th October 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.

Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com

Page 56 - 2nd October 2025

Outside office hours call: 053 919 6000 Register on www.mapalerter.com for free text and email alerts about service disruptions in your locality

Planning app. lists available at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning

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Black & White Photographic Exhibition from the Denis & Pat O’Connor Archives

Flashback Happy Days Saturday October 18th ‐ Sunday November 2nd 2025 Daily 10.30am ‐ 5.00pm Monday to Saturday Sundays and Bank Holiday Monday 12.00pm ‐ 5.30pm LOCATION:

99 South(Opposite Mains Street, Wexford The Sky & The Ground)

For more information phone 053 9141372 Email: deniseoconnormurphy@gmail.com 2nd October 2025 - Page 57

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Culture vultures feast on the Film Night: Enniscorthy’s second Arts & Culture Festival began with a bang on Thursday 18th September in the magnificent surrounds of Enniscorthy Castle as it hosted a Film Night – showcasing three films made, directed, and produced by Wexford Film Workshop in Enniscorthy – Fairy Godmother by Maria Nolan, set in 1966 Enniscorthy, Forbidden Bonds set in 1240 telling the story of the Prendergast family who built Enniscorthy Castle, and Shadow of Tyranny – the murder of the Redmond Brothers of Corah at Ballycarney on May 27th 1798 taken from The Shadow of the Pike, by Maria Nolan.

Chair of the Committee Maria Nolan took the opportunity, while welcoming the large crowd to the event, to present a bouquet of red roses to the new Manager of the Castle Maura Bell as a welcome to Enniscorthy and thanked the previous Manager Mico Hassett for all her support and assistance during her tenure.

Director Dick Donaghue paid tribute to all the wonderful local actors for their time and talent telling the attendance that these films had to date won nineteen awards in Film Festivals around the globe.

Quite an achievement for a local film group with little or no budget.

Living History & Period Costume Exhibition: In conjunction with Enniscorthy Castle’s Living History event, the Arts & Culture

Festival Committee added a unique event to the Culture Night programme with a recreation of the famous painting by Frederick William Burton, Meeting on the Turret Stairs, which is housed in the National Gallery.

Maria Nolan explained that it had been a dream of hers to recreate this beautifully poignant painting, a Danish Medieval tragic love story, on the stairs of Enniscorthy Castle for many years and it all became possible because of her chance meeting with designer extraordinaire Barbara Guthrie who recreated the costumes of the Knight and Lady exactly to specification.

Barbara’s meticulous attention to detail along with her amazing talent made this event not only possible but a major success with photographers thronging into the narrow space to snap the shot.

‘It is planned to send the most amazing photo to the National Gallery as we are sure this is a first of its kind and who knows may spark something big,‘ Maria Nolan told the very large crowd gathered for the event who were delighted to be entertained by the magical pairing of Myles Doyle and Aisling Williams who provided medieval strains on the lute and flute – the most splendid addition to this unique occasion.

An exhibition of Barbara Guthrie’s stunning period costumes is currently on display at Enniscorthy Castle.

Pic: Maria Nolan

Pic: Maria Nolan Enniscorthy-based Selin Kim (above) officially opened the 2025 Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival on 19th September at Y21 Studios, Millpark Road, with ‘A Taste of Cambodia’.

Selin is national President of the Cambodian Community in Ireland and Miss Planet Ireland 2025. The event showcased the beauty, creativity and spirit of Cambodia through traditional dance, music, arts and cuisine.

A Taste of Cambodia: The official opening of the Festival was performed by Selin Kim at Y21 Studios on Mill Park Road on Culture Night, Friday 19th September.

Introducing guest speaker Selin Kim, Chair Maria Nolan told those gathered, including Johnny Mythen TD, that Selin was the National President of the Cambodian Community in Ireland and is Ms. Planet Ireland 2025.

‘She will be representing Ireland in the Miss World Planet contest in Cambodia in November and she is living here among us in Enniscorthy.’

‘Because the opening of the Festival coincides with Culture Night, we decided to embrace one of the new cultures of Enniscorthy to be part of our Festival weekend and we look forward to some lovely Cambodian music, dance, and food as we launch A Taste of Cambodia.’

Enjoying the delicious Cambodian food at the launch event.

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Before delighting the attendance with some elegant Cambodian dance wearing her traditional costume, Selin Kim had this to say, ‘As we open the Festival, each of our cultures unique, what binds us to-

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arts at Enniscorthy festival gether as human beings is creativity, community, and the sheer joy of expression.

Whether you are here to listen to the music, admire the artwork, try new food, experience films, plays, and literature, I hope this weekend’s festival leaves you inspired, connected, and uplifted. With great pride and excitement I hereby declare Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival 2025 officially open.’

Before inviting everyone to enjoy the delicious food, Maria Nolan wished Selin the very best of luck in the Miss World Pageant in November from all in Enniscorthy and thanked Alfie O’Sullivan and Kristyna Simko for the use of their wonderful premises and for the work they were doing for the Enniscorthy arts community and paid tribute to her hardworking and creative committee – Dick Donaghue, Jer Ennis, Richie Cotter, Tom Boland, Kristyna Simko, Alfie O’Sullivan, Liam Doyle and Brendan Robinson, saying that between Pic: Maria Nolan

Pic: Maria Nolan

them they have endeavoured to create a festival that embraces all art genres – film/drama/literature/design/art/comedy/music/dance.

Maria Nolan with festival attendee.

Afternoon Tea with Carmel Harrington: Saturday afternoon as patrons partook of tea/coffee and delectable scones from Café ’98, local author Maria Nolan spoke with bestselling author Carmel Harrington about her writing journey, her wonderful success story and her plans going forward.

And Carmel as always had the attentive crowd hanging on her every word as she gave excellent advice to existing or would-be authors based on her own invaluable experience.

‘Thirteen books to date and most if not all of them bestsellers, how extremely lucky we are to have a writer of such calibre amongst us here in Wexford,’ Maria Nolan said, ‘and always ready to impart her

knowledge and assist new writers.’

Maria thanked Carmel for the years she spent as Chair of the Focal/Wexford Literary Festival saying that her diligence, attention to detail and excellent connections contributed to the success of the festival.

Maria also thanked Chair of Enniscorthy District Council for attending the event 

Left: Eternum (Myles Doyle and Aisling Williams) entertaining festival-goers in Enniscorthy Castle.

Right: Author Carmel Harrington (centre) with Anne Gilpin and Joni Galvin.

Pic: Maria Nolan

Pic: Maria Nolan

Left: Author Carmel Harrington with crime writer Gillian Perdue.

Above: Maria Nolan, Michelle O’Neill, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.

Right: Author Carmel Harrington poses for photos..

Pic: Maria Nolan

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Slaney leiSure Slaney& ad lifeStyle and for her and the Council’s continued support and endorsement of the arts in Enniscorthy.

Drama at the Presentation: Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival dished up an amazing and most entertaining evening of drama at The Presentation Arts Centre on Saturday 20th September with an array of top class local talent.

Jer Ennis, the main driver of the event and producer of all three plays, introduced War in a Box – a poignant play by local butcher Tom Crofts made particularly moving with mother and daughter duo from Ukraine giving it a most frightening reality.

Swansong – a play with a twist – by Maria

Nolan about a woman in the throes of menopause who is given an uplifting boost as she watches the swans on the Slaney – a therapy suggested by her long suffering husband. Julie Fox/Jessica Brennan/Billy Phayers/David Doyle and Jer Ennis gave masterful performances bringing this play to life onstage.

Talking Ducks – well I never – but there they were on stage at the Presentation bringing light-hearted laughter to the appreciative audience – from the very active imagination of Jer Ennis.

Education Anecdotes with Richie Cotter took us on a humorous and oft-times moving trip down memory lane to a, shall we say, more rigid educational system that

only now can we look back on and laugh.

Richie Cotter was born to be before an audience, his onstage presence is nothing short of magic.

And speaking of magic, we had a little sparkling of it in the final performance of the evening by Liam Doyle, who gave us something quite special – explaining the origin of the bagpipes, the history of his traditional outfit along with some poignant pipe music and a most lovely rendition of Danny Boy that brought a tear to many an eye in the auditorium. Finishing with the playing of the National Anthem was another poignant twist that took us all back to the days and nights when everything ended with our National Anthem.

Above: Newly written plays by local authors being performed in The Presentation Arts Centre.

Left: Plein Air painters enjoying the good weather outside Y21 Studios.

Right and below: The period costume exhibition by the award-winning Enniscorthy-based costume designer Barbara Guthrie.

Barbara is pictured below on the right with Maria Nolan.

Below left: Maria presents Maura Bell with a bouquet of roses.

Pics: Maria Nolan.

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Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle Plein Air & Marja Van Kampen:

Comedy at the IFA Centre:

On a beautiful sunny September Sunday morning in Enniscorthy ten Plein Air artists armed with easels, brushes, pencils, and paints scattered across our picturesque town to sketch, paint and create, all organised by committee member Dick Donaghue who was even taking credit for the weather I do believe.

Enniscorthy was in for a treat at the Comedy Night at the IFA Centre organised by Mr. Comedian himself Brendan Robinson.

And at the IFA Centre, well known and revered Dutch artist Marja van Kampen showcased her fabulously colourful exhibition of paintings at her studios on the second floor.

No matter the weather or the mood, Marja’s paintings will pour sunshine on your day with their kaleidoscope of vibrant colours.

Another first for the festival and for Enniscorthy I’ll wager as four female comedians, Claire Roche, Donna Fletcher, Justine Halpin and Tara O’Sullivan took to the IFA stage, to bring lots of laughter and engagement to the Enniscorthy audience.

A unique occasion for comedy lovers in the town to see some of Ireland’s most amazing female comedians from around the country including Meath, Dublin, Tipperary, and Wicklow, right here on our own doorsteps and our sincere thanks to the man himself, Brendan Robinson, for organising the event and for being very

much part of the fun of the evening as the vocal and colourful MC. Rockin’ and Rollin’ at the Bailey: Last, but certainly by no means least, the final event of Festival 2025 – an evening of Rock ‘n’ Roll in conjunction with organiser Richie Cotter and the South East Rock ‘n’ Roll Club, had patrons stepping and jiving, and twisting and swinging at the Bailey venue.

Energetic dancers from 18 to 80 strutted their stuff to the Blues Boys and Elvis himself was even in the building for the occasion.

Huge credit to Richie Cotter and his team for ending a packed and most successful Arts & Culture Festival 2025 in Enniscorthy with a flourish.

– MARIA NOLAN

Right: A live re-enactment of the famous painting by Frederic William Burton (1816-1900) called 'Hellelil and Hildebrand, the Meeting on the Turret Stairs', which hangs at the National Gallery of Ireland, took place in Enniscorthy Castle with Barbara Guthrie and Ian Kidd in the roles. Barbara also created the amazing replica costumes for this iconic scene.

Left: All-female comedy night – a first for Enniscorthy – thanks to Brendan Robinson.

Below: Some attendees at the Wexford Film Workshop film night.

Bottom left: Enjoying the rock ‘n’ roll event at the festival.

Bottom centre: Elvis in the building at The Bailey.

Bottom right: Artist Marja van Kampen exhibiting her wonderful paintings.

Pics: Maria Nolan

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Wedding showcase in Enniscorthy

Getting married soon? Then visit the Wedding Showcase on Sunday 5th October at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy. The beautiful wedding ballroom will be sure to captivate you and your wedding guests with its warm hues and elegant charm as well as the unique colour-changing ceiling.

Head Chef Dave will be on hand to talk you through various wedding menus and let you sample some of the fabulous dishes. Visit the Penthouse suite located in the stone tower of the hotel. Exclusive showcase deal with complimentary wine on selected dates. To book an appointment, email weddings@riversideparkhotel.com or call 053 9237800. See more at: www.riversideparkhotel.com/wedding-showcase/ n

A musical youth workshop Looking for something for your child to do during the next school midterm break? Well, Enniscorthy Musical Society (EMS) is delighted to annouce The Addams Family Junior and Senior Workshops!

The Addams Family Junior Workshop is for 6-10 year olds and is on Saturday, 1st November, from 10am-2pm.

The Addams Family Senior Workshop is for 11-18 years olds and is on Sunday, 2nd November, from 10am-3pm.

Taking place in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, your child can work on their singing and dancing with EMS’s talented coaches. At the end of each day a showcase will be featured.

The workshops are priced at €30 per child (plus 40c booking fee).

Just fill out the Google form in the link below to register and EMS will be in touch in due course with further details and a payment link. https://forms.gle/ysAjxqhDL8jt7SPK7 n

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WLOS is ready to hit the stage (full story on following 2 pages)

Pic: Paula Malone Carty Photography

Wexford Light Opera Society Festival Raffle Reminder!

Don’t miss your chance to support Wexford Light Opera Society and be in with a chance to win some amazing prizes: 1st Prize: Two tickets to the Opening of the Wexford Festival Opera!

2nd Prize: €100 Gift Voucher for Whites Hotel.

3rd Prize: Two tickets to Hits from the Musicals.

The draw will take place on 15th October so get your tickets now for your chance to win!

Click on the link here: https://wexford-light-opera-clg.sumupstore.com/product/wlos-festival-raffle-2025 n

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So much to look forward to at Wexford Light Opera Society Wexford Light Opera Society (WLOS) is delighted to announce its show for next year is Jesus Christ Superstar. This rock Opera is sung straight through from start to finish with showstoppers from the duo Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. Memorable tunes such as “I don’t know how to love him”, "Gethsemane", "Hosanna", "Superstar" and "Could We Start Again Please?" to name but a few.

The same production team that brought us Young Frankenstein and Phantom of the Opera in the last two years is back on board for what promises to be a huge hit for the group. Auditions will take place on 12th October, 2025.

In the meantime, the much-anticipated Wexford Light Opera Society "Hits from The Musicals" 2025 will take place from Monday 27th to Thursday 30th October 2025 inclusive, during the Wexford Opera Festival. The venue is Clayton Whites Hotel, and the show will commence at 8pm.

This year’s Musical Spectacular will feature a blend of timeless classics and contem-

Above: Jesus Christ Superstar director Christine Scarry and, below, musical director David Hayes.

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Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle porary gems from the world of Musical Theatre featuring numbers from wellknown shows such as “Guys and Dolls”, “Mary Poppins”, “Chess”, “Sister Act”, “Beauty and the Beast”, “The Lion King” and “Wicked”, to name just a few.

The show will feature the renowned chorus of the Wexford Light Opera Society, as well as a variety of soloists who regularly perform or have performed with the Society over the years.

The production team is as follows: Musical Director - David Hayes Director - Stephen Byrne Chorus Mistress - Eithne Corrigan "Hits from The Musicals" is the highlight of the Opera Festival Fringe events and the Master of Ceremonies will be the one and only Catherine "Biddy" Walsh.

Tickets now on sale now at the Box Office at the National Opera House.

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30-17:00.

By telephone: 053 9122144.

Online: www.nationaloperahouse.ie n

New committee – new community & arts hub Wexford light Opera Society (WLOS) held its AGM last month and the following committee was returned: Chairperson – Colin Murphy, Vice Chairperson – Eric Hayes, Secretary – Jamie Collins, Treasurer – Valerie Martin, Public Relations Officer – Nicky Kehoe.

Committee Members: Aoife Caulfield, Joanne Kehoe, Dermot Wallace, Dorota Richards, Claire Doyle and Keelin Sheehan.

Wexford Light Opera Society has been awarded just over €162,000 under the 20232027 LEADER Programme to support the development of our Clonard building into a dedicated community and arts hub.

Since purchasing the property in 2020, a sub-committee has been working tirelessly on planning, compliance, consultations with local groups, and preparing the grant application. The project will now move forward in two stages: •

Phase 1 will include enabling works, (such as structural concrete and steel, and new access works) and will be funded by WLOS.

•

Phase 2, the fit-out of the building, will be made possible with the support of the LEADER grant.

WLOS is excited to share that works will begin on site very soon and it looks forward to having the project completed in the first quarter of 2026.

The hub will offer rehearsal space, meeting rooms, storage, and facilities for workshops, training, and other activities, supporting WLOS and the wider community.

Chairperson Colin Murphy said “This is a major milestone for our Society. It will finally give us a permanent, fit-for-purpose rehearsal and meeting space while also opening our doors to the wider community. More than that, it is a lasting gift to future generations of WLOS Members, ensuring they will always have a home to create, to rehearse, and to belong.

“On behalf of the committee, sincere thanks to everyone who has supported this project so far.” n

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New chess club is launched in Enniscorthy

What an amazing turnout for Enniscorthy Chess Club's opening night on 16th September in Templeshannon Community Centre, Enniscorthy, for ages 6-99+.

38 people registered on the night, with an equal mix of all ages and genders.

A talk was delivered by Lee Watson, head of the club, on his journey through chess, and how the club can bring so much to the community, recreationally and socially.

This new club opens the door wide for Enniscorthy's growing chess scene!

The club says a massive thanks to Julie Grant at Wexford Local Development for making the night possible, and for the gracious hosts at Templeshannon Community Centre.

Contact Lee Watson at 083 377 2565 for more details. n

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Coffee morning in aid of the Irish Kidney Association WITH A YOUNG ENNISCORTHY WOMAN CURRENTLY WAITING ON A KIDNEY TRANSPLANT, A COFFEE MORNING IN AID OF THE IRISH KIDNEY ASSOCIATION WILL BE HELD LATER THIS MONTH. The women's group in The Shannon, Enniscorthy, have decided to host the coffee morning on the 16th of October in Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre, 11am-1pm, to raise funds for the Irish Kidney Association.

Your support would be much appreciated. n

Haunted tours Wexwalks in association with Enniscorthy Historical Walking Tours presents two ‘Haunted Hallows Ghost Tours’ in Enniscorthy: Fri 17th and Fri 31st October 6pm nightly. €20 per person Strictly Pre-Paid Booking Only.

Save the date!

Contact 086-2138062 or DM ‘WexWalks’ on its social media pages.

Reach Ability (formerly CWCW) is turning 50 this year and is celebrating with a very special Photo Exhibition!

Please note this is an all weather tour, bookings are non refundable. n

Join in on October 17th at Bellefield, Enniscorthy, as Reach Ability looks back, reflects, and honours the journey of 50 years of impact, community, and inclusion.

Stay tuned to the Slaney News Facebook page for more details. You won’t want to miss this milestone celebration! n

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Picking sunflowers for charity at Wheelocks

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

The Village at Wheelocks hosted a Charity Sunflower Picking event for Children’s Health Foundation, Crumlin, on Saturday, 6th September 2025.

Above left: Cyril Wheelock with Bea, and Cathal and Orla Stafford, musicians. Above right: Arthur and Susan Byrne.

Below left: Anne Dempsey, Frances McCabe and Martin Ryan. Below right: Rosemary O’Loughlin.

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Pilates event raises €1,010 for Gaza

Last month, Elaine from Chappiefit hosted a special humanitarian fundraiser in aid of Gaza, with all proceeds donated to UNICEF. She had set herself the goal of filling the IFA Hall on Mill Park Road with fifty participants for a large Pilates Mat and Seated Chair class, with a suggested donation of €10 and a target of €500. Thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of those who attended and supported, the event more than doubled expectations, raising an incredible €1,010.

Elaine described herself as “thrilled” to be able to make the donation to UNICEF. The evening began with a short reflection on human kindness and compassion, which set a gentle and thoughtful tone for the class.

Afterwards, everyone was invited to stay for tea, coffee, and delicious home-baked goodies, while sharing conversations about the situation in Gaza. Many expressed feelings of frustration and helplessness, but also a sense of comfort in coming together and doing something positive. Elaine would like to extend her heartfelt thanks to all who took part, donated, or helped behind the scenes especially Mick in the IFA, who generously provided the hall and refreshments free of charge.

For those who would like to join Elaine’s weekly Pilates, Dumbbells, or Seated Chair classes in Enniscorthy and Wexford, further information is available at www.chappiefit.com n

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NEW SINGLE FROM ACKO – THE PROLIFIC AND TALENTED ENNISCORTHYBASED SINGERMUSICIAN Enniscorthy-based Acko has just released single number nine (Motorway Song) of the twelve singles he is releasing in 2025.

Acko says: "This is a song I wrote in the 90’s, inspired by an overnight drive from Holyhead to London in the back of a car.

I used to play it when I was doing my first solo gigs in Dublin in the early 90’s and then later with my band Grasshopper. I recorded a version about 20 years ago and once again used AI to extract the bass from that version and built the song around that. It features my old bandmate from Grasshopper Brian K. Adams on guitar. The B side Rubicon is a new song that also features Brian and Noel Quaid on bass and guitar."

'Motorway Song' is available from Bandcamp and all the usual streaming platforms from 19th September.

Acko: 087 2948075 Email: stdominic@outlook.ie n

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New health programme for Co. Wexford A new, free, community-based, multi-agency, health programme called “Healthy Living for Everyday Life” is taking place across Co. Wexford from September to December to support health and wellbeing for all.

Developed by the HSE’s Health Promotion and Improvement team and supported by community partners, including the Wexford Library Service (in conjunction with Adult Literacy for Life), Sports Active Wexford, the Irish Heart Foundation and Mental Health Ireland, the talks are designed to support people with taking charge of their health and wellbeing.

Scheduled for six Tuesday mornings each in Bunclody, Enniscorthy, Gorey, New Ross, and Wexford Town libraries, the “Healthy Living for Everyday Life” programme is a health literacy programme with the goal of enabling people to access, understand and use health information and services in a way that promotes and maintains good health and wellbeing for themselves and those around them.

The six “Healthy Living for Everyday Life” talks (which take place on Tuesdays from 10.30am to 12pm) are: Alcohol Awareness Movement Matters Understanding Smoking and Vaping Healthy Eating Cancer Risk Reduction Five Ways to Wellbeing The talks will be delivered by health promotion professionals and are free but booking is essential. To find out more or book a place, please see: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries/whats-on-in-my-library (‘Healthy Living For Everyday Life’ at your local library).

You can also book by phone at: (053) 919 6760.

Enniscorthy Library Timetable:

Healthy Eating Tuesday, 11th November at 10.30am-12pm A simple Guide to Healthy Eating including top tips for all ages from a trusted HSE Dietician.

Facilitator: Laura Roche, Senior Dietician, HSE.

Alcohol Awareness Tuesday, 14th October at 10.30am-12pm Find out the benefits of cutting back on alcohol and where to start to feel better physically and mentally.

Facilitator: Aoise Meyler, Health Promotion Practitioner, Irish Heart Foundation.

Cancer Risk Reduction, Early Detection and Screening Tuesday, 18th November at 10.30am-12pm Get the information you need to help you and your loved ones reduce the risk of cancer, including early detection signs and symptoms and screening services.

Facilitator: Anne Marie Lawlor, Health Promotion Officer – Cancer Prevention, HSE.

Movement Matters Tuesday, 21st October at 10.30am-12pm Get help to understand and access exercise for people of all abilities from a trusted professional working in Sports Active Wexford.

Facilitator: Ben Hunt, Physical Therapist and Physical Activity for Health Officer, Sports Active Wexford.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Wednesday, 26th November at 10.30am-12pm An Introduction to looking after your mental health using the Five Ways to Wellbeing approach from Mental Health Ireland.

Facilitator: Gina Delaney, Development Officer, Mental Health Ireland.

Understanding Smoking and Vaping Tuesday, 4th November at 10.30am-12pm Get trusted health information on the impacts of smoking and vaping and find out what supports are available from the HSE to help you or a loved one to Quit.

Facilitator: Elaine Banville, Health Promotion and Improvement Officer, HSE.

All are invited to this series of health and wellbeing talks at Enniscorthy and other libabries around the county, to be delivered by trusted professionals. You will learn how to make healthy lifestyle choices, that will benefit you and those around you in everyday life.

Booking is essential. For the Enniscorthy programme: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/4420824 n

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Enniscorthy Credit Union art competition – looking to the future Artists of all ages from Wexford: What does the future mean to you?

Enniscorthy Credit Union is delighted to launch the 2025 Credit Union Art Competition and is calling on local artists and beyond of all ages to take part in one of Ireland’s longest running and most inclusive art initiatives. The closing date for completed entries to Enniscorthy Credit Union is 5pm Friday October 24th 2025.

The Credit Union Art Competition invites people from all walks of life to express themselves through creativity, with this year’s theme asking them to reflect on “The Future is…” which encourages artists to look ahead with imagination, hope and curiosity.

Participants might explore personal dreams and milestones, a better world for the next generation, or how change and progress might shape our lives and communities.

Whether bold and futuristic or thoughtful and personal, the theme offers endless possibilities for creative interpretation.

Now in its 42nd year, the Credit Union Art Competition continues to support and promote creativity at every stage of life. From early learners to lifelong artists, the competition celebrates the power of art to connect, inspire and bring communities together.

Enniscorthy Credit Union believes in supporting not only financial wellbeing, but also personal growth and connection through community involvement. The art competition is part of that wider mission, encouraging children and adults alike to think, create and share their ideas with others. Whether you are based in Wexford or beyond, it's open to you. Just reach out to your local Credit Union for their terms and conditions and submission deadline.

Teachers, parents, community groups and local artists are all encouraged to get involved and help spread the word.

What you need to know: The competition is open to entrants across two categories: General Category & Additional Needs Category.

Each category is broken down into five age groups (based on age as of 31st of December 2025):

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7 years and under 8 – 10 years inclusive 11 – 13 years inclusive 14 – 17 years inclusive 18 years and over (Adult) ★ One entry per person. ★ Must be A2 (420 x 297mm) or A3 (594 x 420mm) ★ Must be landscape – Not portrait ★ Entries not meeting these criteria must be disqualified ★ Proof of year of birth may be requested by the Credit Union. ★ Please ensure parental/guardian consent has been completed on all entry forms. ★ The entry form must be completed with the correct information and be securely attached to the artwork. ★ The closing date for completed entries to Enniscorthy Credit Union is 5pm Friday October 24th 2025.

Wishing everyone the best of luck and Enniscorthy Credit Union looks forward to seeing all your wonderful artwork.

For more information: https://www.enniscorthycu.ie/credit-unionnews/enter-our-credit-union-art-competition-open-to-all-ages/ Note: Entry forms and competition details are available from Enniscorthy Credit Union, or by contacting them directly on 053 923 3835.

Please see copy of the entry form and all terms and conditions: https://www.enniscorthycu.ie/cuweb/wp-content/uploads/EntryForm-Art-Comp-2025.pdf Other participating Credit Unions: If you are not submitting to Enniscorthy Credit Union, please contact your local participating Credit Union for their terms and conditions as well as their closing date. n

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Creative Youth Voices Enniscorthy An opportunity for young people in Enniscorthy to speak up, share ideas, and create real change in their town.

Over six weeks, you’ll work with the poet, podcaster and advocate @nomanticz to explore creativity, expression, and the power of youth voices.

Starting Monday the 13th of October, 4pm – 6pm.

Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy Open to 14+ Limited places available €100 One4All Gift Card up for grabs!

To get involved, WhatsApp Deryn (087 9578984) with your name, age and a little about yourself. n

Major award for Kilmuckridge dance school Since 2022, Taylor’s competition teams have been hugely successful at national and international competitions, always bringing home trophies and medals.

Taylor Walker Academy of Dance has been awarded Wexford School of the Year 2025 at the prestigious Golden Dance Awards Ireland, held on Saturday, 13th September, in the Castleknock Hotel, Dublin.

Taylor herself began dancing in Essex, England, at age 3 and trained at Performers College on a scholarship from the age of 16. She worked professionally in the UK and Europe before moving to Ireland in 2018, and founded Taylor Walker Academy of Dance in February 2019.

This national event celebrates the best of Ireland’s dance schools, with nominees from all across the country and a panel of high-profile judges including Brian Redmond (RTÉ’s Dancing with the Stars Judge), Darren Casey (Riverdance), Sean Taaffe (Taaffe Training), Kylee Vincent (West End performer), Inna Mazurenko (Dancing with the Stars finalist) and James Patrice (TV personality).

Speaking on the award, Taylor said: “It is such an honour to win such an amazing award, I’m over the moon. My Dance school is so special to me, and I am so beyond proud of each and every student that comes through those studio doors.

They all mean so much to me and I’m so grateful to them all and their parents for the outstanding support they’ve shown me over the years.”

The awards ceremony also raised over €1,000 for Barnardos Children’s Charity on the night and was sponsored by ClassForKids (alongside some other companies).

This is a huge achievement for Taylor and her Kilmuckridge school, especially considering the competition included other schools that have been established for over 30 years.

Taylor Walker opened her dance school in February 2019 and now runs 50+ classes a week for children of all ages and abilities, with over 180 weekly atten-

dees. She teaches all dance classes herself, with a child-centred, empowering and fun approach. Styles taught include hip hop, contemporary, ballet, jazz, tap, musical theatre, drama, acro dance, as well as singing and more. The school has quickly become a pillar of the local area, giving children a space to have fun, make friends, and build confidence.

If you’d like to see a taste of what ‘Wexford’s School of the Year’ has to offer, check out its annual Dance Show, “Let’s Get Loud” 2025, at Gorey Little Theatre on 11th October. Matinee: 2.30pm. Evening: 6.30pm. Tickets at gr8events.ie Website: taylorwalkeracademy.com Social media: @taylorwalkeracademyofdance Email: taylor@taylorwalker.co.uk n

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CONRAN'S BAR WINS BEST LOCAL PUB IN THE SOUTH EAST

Above left: Celebrating winning the Best Local Pub Award in the newly renovated bar. Above right: John Conran (L) and Martin Murphy (R) enjoying a pint in Conran’s Bar new beer garden. Below: Presentation of cheque for over €74,000 for Aoibheann’s Pink Tie.

Conran’s Bar in Rathnure has been named Best Local Pub in the South East Region at the prestigious Irish Pub Awards 2025, a testament to its recent transformation and deeprooted role as a community hub. Conran’s Bar is owned and operated by the Conran family who have been part of Wexford’s business and hospitality landscape for generations.

opened up the bar space, added a new outdoor covered area for events, and refreshed the lounge and toilets. These refurbishments have resulted in a strong presence in darts and pool as well as increased turn out at its monthly “First Friday” music session.

The Irish Pub Awards are organised by the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI) and the Licensed Vintners Association (LVA), sponsored by Diageo.

Reflecting on the award, Lorraine Lennon, Manager of Conran’s Bar, said: “We’re delighted and privileged to win this award, especially after the major refurbishment of the pub. A big thank you to our staff and loyal customers who make us the pub we are today.”

Earlier this year, Conran’s Bar underwent a major refurbishment, carried out by sister company Conran Commercial.

The project, which began in 2024,

Owner John Conran highlighted the pub’s central role in Rathnure life: “I realise how important it is for communities and groups to have a central

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place where people can meet, and friendships can thrive. I like to think our pub is a key element in providing just that.”

Beyond its physical transformation, Conran’s Bar has also played a vital role in the local community. In summer 2025, the pub became the hub of a fundraising campaign for Aoibheann’s Pink Tie with an incredible €74,000 being raised with the support of customers and the wider community.

Conran’s Bar will now go forward to the national finals at the Irish Pub Awards Gala in November, where the overall winner of the Best Local Pub category will be announced. n

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Lipsync Battle fundraiser Enniscorthy Musical Society is thrilled to present its next fundraiser – the return of last year's smash hit Lipsync Battle.

The Lipsync Battle will take place on Saturday, 18th October, in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, with doors opening at 7.30pm, and the event starting at 8pm.

Featuring past and present EMS members, friends of the Society and fabulous guest judges, this year's Lipsync Battle is set to be as fantastic as last year. Don't miss out on a night of great craic, lots of laughs and brilliant acts!

Plus, you decide who wins! What more could you want.

Tickets are just €15 (plus 20c booking fee) and are available online through the link below: ie.powertik.com/events/ems-lipsync This is a fundraising event for EMS’s production next year of Chess. n

WEXFORD’S BOB DYLAN A BIG HIT IN DUBLIN

Bree resident Paul Kirwan and his special tribute show Bringing Dylan Home has been invited back to Whelan’s prestigious rock music venue in Dublin on 10 October 2025, following its full-house debut there in July.

This time Kirwan’s captivating performances will be enhanced by backing vocalist Emmylou Baez (no relation) and violinist Grainne Noone in the role of Scarlet Rivera, the Irish-Italian woman who recorded with Dylan and toured with him.

Kirwan’s tribute to one of the music world’s most sensational and enduring talents comes ahead of the 84-year-old Dylan himself visiting Ireland in November for live dates in Dublin, Belfast and Killarney as part of his Rough and Ways Rowdy tour.

Bringing Dylan Home features uncannily evocative versions of such Dylan classics as ‘Mr Tambourine Man’, ‘Tangled Up In Blue’ and ‘Blowin’ In The Wind’, as well as ‘It’s Alright Ma’ and ‘Like A Rolling Stone’ for which award-winning Wexford film producer Michael Benson has directed a promotional teaser video.

Kirwan is already known for his spot-on tributes to singers of the calibre of Johnny Cash and Neil Young. His early musical journeys included membership of several bands when he was based in Dublin, and his adventures featured a support slot for the American rock heroes Counting Crows at the famed Bowery Ballroom in New York City.

As he says of his latest project, “Dylan’s most recent album has a song called ‘I Contain Multitudes’ and it’s as self-revelatory as we’re likely to get from the permanently shapeshifting Dylan. I felt inspired to explore one of those multitudes and that’s what my show is all about. I’m looking forward to recreating that character and bringing him back to the renowned discerning audience at Whelan’s.”

Bringing Dylan Home with Paul Kirwan and supporting cast in Whelan’s, Camden Street, Dublin on Saturday, 10 October 2025, at 8pm. Booking early is advised. Bringing Dylan Home is staged by Tribute Presents.

Paul Kirwan

For further information contact: tributepresentsdylan@gmail.com n

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Memories of 65 years “Harvard University” A close encounter on a snow-laden Ráth Lane between Garrenstackle and Ballyhogue, was a funny but serious topic for the 150 people around the tables at the Bree branch of Macra na Feirme 65th anniversary celebrations at the Talbot Hotel in Wexford town. It seems that desperate to get to a training session, two Ballyhogue members took to transport by tractor. However, the tractor landed up on the side of a snow-bound ditch leaving its driver and passenger holding onto each other to balance it!

The story is one of many stories of effort and fearsome commitment that swirled around as the old and young members there celebrated 65 years since the founding of their branch of Macra na Feirme on 20th April 1960.

The Little Black Book of Bree Macra The Bree Macra na Feirme story is told well in an impressive 60-page “Black” book given free to the attendance at the celebrations. An epigraph on the cover says “Sharing the journey, honouring the legacy and embracing what’s ahead”.

The book carries an account by John Curtis (90), the founding secretary of the branch, who, with his wife Mary was among those at the 65th celebrations. He wrote: ”Over the decades, members of Bree Macra have achieved remarkable success, bringing home county, provincial and national titles in competitions spanning a whole range of skills and disciplines. In 1960, it provided an answer to the isolation often felt in rural communities and remarkably 65 years later, it continues to serve that purpose.”

A table listing the achievements of the branch members in national competitions is given in the book, the first being the late Johnny Asple, runner-up in the All-Ireland sheep judging final of 1964.

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The year 1960 was only 15 years or so after World War II, six or seven before ‘free’ education and ten or so years before Ireland entered the EEC, now the EU. They remembered young man – young woman relationships, old characters of the 50s, hurling and football, and the acting antics of Liam Spratt and Hannah Whelan on stage in the Olympia Theatre, Dublin.

According to John Curtis, founder secretary of the branch, fourteen young men and young women, in their early 20’s, encouraged by his neighbour and friend, the late Martin Kehoe of Garrenstackle, became members. They had gathered at ‘the old tin hut’. St Aidan’s Hall in Bree village. The sobriquet of ‘old tin hut’ from its walls and roof made of galvanised sheeting. The site of the hall is now a commemorative garden on the birthplace in 1910 of the Society of United Irishwomen, later Irish Countrywomen’s Association or ICA.

“Macra na Feirme has never been more relevant”– Josephine O’Neill, national president.

There they listened to Owen Kehoe of Monageer, the then county organiser. They elected officers: Jim Kelly of Ballybrittas, a young farmer-chairman, Frances Walsh of Clonmore – vice-chairman, John Curtis of Garrenstackle, a young farmersecretary, and Mona Fortune of Barmoney, a young teachertreasurer.

Also there were Nick Fortune of Barmoney, Agnes Wickham of Wilton, Paddy Breen of Garrenstackle, Tommy Kehoe of Garrenstackle, Lizzie Kehoe of Garrenstackle, Betty Carton of Clonmore, Mary Byrne and George Murphy of Ballyhogue, and Johnny Asple of Galbally. Nick Dempsey of Ballymorris and Tom Kelly of Ballybrittas joined later.

According to the Bree Macra ‘Little Black Book’, Bree was the elite ‘Harvard University’ among the branches that made up the great open university of rural Ireland. The fields, homes and kitchens of mid-county Wexford were the classrooms.

Farms were practice areas for farm tasks and stock-judging competitions.

The Macra na Feirme organisation was headquartered in the 1960s at 50 Northumberland Road in Dublin. The HQ moved to the Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, on the western edge of the city in the 1970s.

Bree founding members Frances Galloway née Walsh, Agnes O’Dowd née Wickham, Nick Fortune and John Curtis were in

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in the of Bree the Talbot for the 65th. Mona Fortune couldn’t be there. Sadly, Johnny Asple, another founder member, passed away just before the celebrations.

The attendance, guided by Sarah Byrne, organising chairman, and Eddie Casey, the branch chairman, wandered through clusters of blue and white balloons and a gallery on easels of hundreds of photographs of mainly young faces from the 60s up to the present. On a table was an array of trophies – one of them the Frank Barry Memorial Cup. Frank Barry, a teacher in Adamstown, was the first secretary of the county executive which was formed at The Railway Hotel, Enniscorthy, in 1949.

An ever-smiling, ever-helpful Sarah Byrne, welcomed everybody. Bree parish priest, Fr Michael Byrne said Grace. With him was Fr Tomás Kehoe, a former chairman of the branch.

The national president of Macra na Feirme, Josephine O’Neill, a teacher from Callan, Co. Kilkenny, was a special guest. In a polished speech she said profoundly, “The legacy of Bree is written not just in competitions or events organised, but in the stories of the people who grew here, who found their voice here and who carried the spirit of Macra wherever they went.

“Looking ahead, Macra will continue to be that welcoming space where rural youth can gather, grow, and belong. With challenges facing farming, rural life, and communities today, Macra's role has never been more important.”

The extra-special guest, the all-in-one Cicero and Demosthenes of debating, public speaking, and critical thinking for many there, was PJ Darcy. He was Macra na Feirme county chairman, county secretary, national public speaking champion, debating champion, pig judging champion, and on Cross Country Quiz, the RTÉ television series, he was a general knowledge champion. He coached numerous teams to national victory, and kept in support of Bree branch for more than fifty years.

Former officers The attendance included Paul Kehoe, (FG) former Government chief whip and super-junior minister, a former chairman of the branch; Brendan Byrne, native of Curraghnaboola, now of Dicey Reilly’s in Lanzarote, another former chairman; Michael Foley, Bree, former national executive member, and Willie Wickham, former branch president.

Current Branch committee Eddie Casey, chairperson, Mary Byrne, secretary, Katie Sutton, treasurer, Sinéad Kinsella, P.R.O, Sarah Byrne, competitions officer, Eimear Jackman, and committee member, Kieran Banville.

The Organising committee for the 65th Celebrations: Sarah Byrne, chairperson, Grace Kehoe, Katie Sutton, Sinéad Kinsella, P.R.O, Brendan Byrne, Willie Wickham, Eddie Casey and Mary Byrne.

Niall Doyle of the organising committee, in a speech reminiscent of a monologue by South East Radio broadcaster Liam Spratt, introduced him. The audience stood en masse and gave P.J. a five-minute ovation with lengthy applause at the presentation by Niall of a specially struck Bree Macra na Feirme Achievement Award to him.

PJ Darcy, surrounded by his son Eoin and daughters Fiona, Áine and Niamh, commanded silent attention with his recall of his leadership of the first Bree team to win a national title. This team won the Macra na Feirme National Public Speaking title in the Ormond Ballroom, Carrick on Suir, in March 1970.

Public speaker and debating champion PJ Darcy honoured for his achievements.

He recalled then quoting the words of another Wexfordman, John Fitzgerald Kennedy (1917-1963), President of the USA. “The trumpets will summon us again. Not as a call to battle, though embattled we are, not as a call to arms, though arms we need, but a call to fight the common enemies of man – poverty, hunger and war itself.” The quotation is appropriate today.

He said that in his business life, he doubted very much that he’d have become the accountant at County Wexford Farmers’ Marts if he hadn't been county secretary of Macra na Feirme. In his personal life, he said that at a Macra dance in the Five Counties in New Ross, he met his late wife Anna, who became “the love of my life”.

Words matter. PJ Darcy mastered the use of words and trained numerous young men and young women to become best class orators and debaters. They researched and presented serious subject matter on politics, economics, social, cultural, society and personal development. Bree Macra na Feirme was for him the platform on which the tallest person in the room was not the tallest until he or she lifted up the smallest.

– M.F.

See photographs on next two pages by Pat O’Connor and Sinéad Kinsella.

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Left: P.J. Darcy, centre, with his children Niamh, Eoin, Fiona and Áine.

Above: At the Talbot Hotel were co-founders of Bree branch of Macra na Feirme in 1960, from left to right: Nick Fortune, John Curtis, Frances Galloway née Walsh, and Agnes O'Dowd née Wickham.

Bree branch of Macra na Feirme 65th anniversary celebrations Talbot Hotel, Wexford town, 13th September 2025.

Above: John Curtis, seated, co-founder and first secretary of Bree branch of Macra na Feirme in 1960 with his wife Mary, and from left, Bridget and Paul Kehoe, former government minister, and Liam and Emma Curtis. Above right: Cutting the 65th Anniversary cake were John Curtis, founder secretary in 1960 and Mary Byrne, present secretary of the branch. Below left: Ena Doyle and Clare Doyle. Below centre: Geraldine and Mick Doyle.

Below right: Jane and Willie Wickham and Agnes O’Dowd. Photographs by Pat O’Connor and Sinéad Kinsella.

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Top left: Sarah Byrne, chairperson of the organising committee. Top centre: Grace Kehoe and Katie Sutton. Top right: Bridget Fortune and Josie Foley.

Above: Presenting the Bree Macra na Feirme Achievement Award to P.J. Darcy (in centre) were from left: Niall Doyle, James Byrne, Sinead Doyle Kinsella, Áine Murphy, Cáit Doyle and Johanna Wickham. Below left: An old photograph of the founders. At front: Mary Byrne, Frances Walsh, John Curtis, Jim Kelly, George Murphy and Johnny Asple. At back: Nick Fortune, Agnes Wickham, Paddy Breen, Lizzie Kehoe, Tommy Kehoe and Betty Carton. Below right: Nick Dempsey, Jim Doyle and John Curtis, winners of the county Farm Tasks final in 1964. Photographs by Pat O’Connor and Sinéad Kinsella.

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Alliance Française launches in Wexford A launch event was held on 12th September at Wexford Arts Centre for Alliance Française, the education and cultural association, which will have its own branch again covering Wexford and Waterford – great news for developing local and national Franco-Ireland links.

Alliance Française provides various courses including language courses for children and adults, and organises grinds for Leaving Cert and Junior Cert students.

The launch event was attended by the French Ambassador Celine Places and several representatives from the French embassy, Wexford politicians, as well as Melanie O'Reilly, Honorary Consul of France to South East Ireland. https://www.facebook.com/AllianceFran caiseWaterford n

Autumn opening hours at The Bailey, Enniscorthy

pics via melanie ???

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Panto time in the south-east BEST OF LUCK TO WEXFORD'S SHARON CLANCY who is among the star-studded cast announced for a glittering new pantomime extravaganza at the SETU Arena, Waterford, this December.

Christmas in Waterford is set to sparkle brighter than ever as the curtain Sharon Clancy on left.

rises on Jack and the Beanstalk, from 17 to 30 December 2025. Audiences will be treated to a spectacular mix of comedy, song, dance and festive magic. 45 of the region’s most talented young performers will also be on stage in a show that promises to be the highlight of the holiday season in the South East.

Jack and the Beanstalk runs at the SETU Arena in Waterford from 17 to 30 December 2025, with both matinee and evening performances. Tickets are available in a range of categories, with admission priced from €25.

Tickets are now on sale at www.pantoland.net and bookings can also be made directly through the SETU Arena Box Office on 051 834 123. n

Kingfishr’s double cause for celebration

KINGFISHR, FEATURING LEAD SINGER EDDIE KEOGH FROM ENNISCORTHY, HAVE RELEASED THEIR EAGERLY AWAITED DEBUT ALBUM – ‘HALYCON’.

AND THEY ALSO HAVE SOME BIG ARENA CONCERTS LINED UP FOR 2026, BUT HURRY IF YOU’RE INTERESTED AS TICKETS ARE SELLING OUT FAST! n

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Blackstairs Blues Festival Enniscorthy 12-14 September 2025.

30 years of the Blues in the Sunny Southeast.

Above left: John Murphy, Pistol Pete Wearn and Olly Parry (UK), Mairead Ennis, Garry Cogdell (USA).

Above right: Blackstairs Blues committee members Mairead Ennis, Ibar Carty and John Murphy with Dermot Byrne and Sophia Murphy.

Left: All ages glued to the performances.

Right: Dermot Byrne performing at Enniscorthy Library.

Below left: Music aficionados.

Below right: BC Blues Band belting out the blues in Holohan’s.

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enniscorthy 'Thru’ the Lens:

Youth Vibes from the 70’s

ABOVE LEFT: FLYNN FAMILY ENNISCORTHY EAST AND WEST. ABOVE RIGHT: NOEL KENNY, PAUL MITCHELL, DAN JORDAN, BERNARD MITCHELL, MICK PEPPER, EAMONN CARTY, JIM LEACY, FINTAN KIRWAN, MICK SULLIVAN, ALAN MITTEN AT THE STRAWBERRY FAIR. RIGHT, QUIZ EVENT: BACK: JOHN O’CONNOR, ED DORAN, SUSAN HILL, WINNIE WALSH, JACK MURPHY, GER WHELAN. FRONT: PAUL MITCHELL, NICKY CASH, BERNARD CASH, SEAMUS WHITNEY, GERALDINE PEARE. HIDDEN IN PICTURE IS PAT SHERIDAN! BELOW RIGHT: ANDREW O’LEARY AND SEAMUS CARTY ENGAGE IN ARCHERY LESSONS.

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.

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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.

Autumn classes at the Presentation Arts Centre Check out the great classes taking place this autumn at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: https://www.presentationcentre.ie/classes.html

7-9PM EVERY MONDAY NIGHT

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 website: www.enniscorthyretirement.net n

LOCAL ARTS CENTRES Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.

Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000.

Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529.

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 now here it’s a great time to start a new pastime. If you like to sing why not go along to and join in any Monday.

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.

In addition, the Templars Singing Group meets up every Thursday morning at 10.30am at Templeshannon Community Centre. For more information, phone 053 9237511. n

What’s on in Wexford 10.30am

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

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Coming this December

Drama classes

Secondary school students – are you interested in getting involved with drama?

Contact Fintan Kelly (087 6756993) for more information about his classes covering both screen and theatre acting. This is a great opportunity to build and develop acting skills as well as making new friends along the way. Don’t miss out! n

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PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

Mary Somers with husband Johnny and grandchildren.

80th Birthday of Mary Somers

Bellefield GAA complex, 13th September 2025.

Mary Somers with husband Johnny and great-grandchildren.

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Top left: Mary Somers with her brothers Denny and Sean Larkin.

Top right: Mary Somers and her two sisters Helen Larkin and Frances Laffan.

Left: Mary with her birthday cake.

Above centre: Mary Somers with two of her great-grandchildren.

Above right: Ned Somers and Oisin Tobin.

PAT’S PICTURE PARADE

Mary Somers, husband Johnny, and family members.

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Wexford Opera Festival Tours 2025 As part of your Festival experience, join one of the very popular Festival Historical tours curated by historian Bernard Browne, on behalf of Wexford Historical Society. Part of the Festival since the early 1950s, these FREE historical tours are led by expert guides and explore places of historical interest in Wexford town and county, some well-known, some lesser-known. From main attractions to hidden stories, it’s a chance to learn about this rich region and to enhance your overall Festival experience.

The tours leave the Talbot Hotel car park, unless otherwise stated, at 10:30am sharp and are scheduled to return to Wexford at 1:00pm, in time to enjoy the afternoon Festival events. No car? – don’t worry. People who have cars make room for those without.

Another chance to make new friends! The tours are open to everyone and are free of charge.

displays outstanding evidence of how a medieval church was furnished, including an early-14th-century tombstone. The tour will also consider how they reached their present ruinous condition.

The tour is led by author and architectural historian Dr Richard Gem. Saturday, October 25 – Tachumshane, Co Wexford Visit the 16th century tower Sigginstown Castle which has been meticulously restored by the owners and the beautiful and historic Butlerstown Tower House near Tomhaggard with author and historian Jarlath Glynn.

Monday, October 27 - Crossabeg A visit to Crossabeg and Saunderscourt Gate Lodges and the triumphal arch which are a rare surviving example of Palladian architecture in County Wexford. The important Gate Lodges are currently being restored. The tour will be led by author and local historian John Foley.

Saturday, October 18 - Wexford Town

Tuesday, October 28 - Barntown, Wexford

An exploration of the surprising cultural, social and industrial life of Wexford town in the 1830s. Tour guide Carmel Foley will provide a snapshot of what life was like for our Wexford ancestors.

The Religious Society of Friends have been part of the fabric of County Wexford life for generations. Explore their remarkable story of the early Pioneering Quakers as the tour will visit sites associated them at Barntown, Lambstown and Corlican with Quaker Historian Paddy Kinsella.

Monday, October 20 – Nemestown shore, Kilmore, Co. Wexford A walking tour along the beach and rocky shoreline in the fishing village of Kilmore Quay. The tour examines a 620-million-year-old rock outcrop unique in Ireland, a raised beach, St Patrick’s Bridge (an unusual landform allegedly constructed by Ireland’s patron saint), seashore wildlife, and more. With naturalist Jim Hurley.

Tuesday, October 21 - New Ross, Co. Wexford The William Cavanagh historic photographs and new Art in New Ross, home to The Ros Tapestry and the Dunbrody Centre. Explore William Marshall’s medieval town with historian Brian Matthews.

Wednesday, October 22 – Oylegate, Co Wexford A visit to Edermine House Chapel built by Sir John Power of Distillery fame with its exposed hammerbeam stencil work. This is a rare opportunity to see a magnificent chapel, with design attributed to Pugin family, as well as the adjacent curvilinear glasshouse. If time permits, a visit to four-storey over basement Kilcarbry Tower Corn Mill erected by Francis Davis Junior. The tour guide is author and historian Willie French.

Thursday, October 23 – Ardcavan, Wexford This tour will take us along part of William Dargan’s Sea Wall that he and John Edward Redmond Sr. built in 1847 to take in 2000 acres of land from the sea. The intake is called the ‘North Slob’ and is now the winter home of many thousands of waterfowl.

These include nearly half the population of Greenland Whitefronted Geese. The geese and other birds usually arrive around Wexford Opera Festival time. Led by Dominic Berridge, cultural historian and former Head Wildlife Warden.

Friday, October 24 – Mayglass, Co. Wexford A tour of three ruined medieval churches. St Fintan at Mayglass was under the care of the Dean of Ferns cathedral and retains a doorway of c.1200. St Moshagra at Tomhaggard has a nave of partly 10/11th-century date. St Munna at Churchtown, Tacumshin,

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Wednesday October 29 - Wexford Town A visit to Wexford town’s iconic Selskar Abbey, officially known as ‘the Canons Regular of St. Augustine Priory of SS Peter and Paul’.

Selskar’s Augustinian Priory and its graveyard and 19th century church designed by John Semple as built on a site with a multistoried history going back to the Viking era. With historian John McCormick.

Thursday, October 30 - Fethard on Sea, Co. Wexford A mile of history in Fethard on Sea. A walking tour through Killarney to Grangeville, the former home of Godfrey Taylor, the land agent of the Marquis of Ely. Not far from his residence is the flagstaff, a symbol of landlordism, and the famous Fethard Castle inscribed stone. A guided walk through the graveyard of St. Mogue’s Church to Parliament Street, College Street, and onto Dynamite Row and Obstruction Terrace. If energy levels hold up, a trip to the inscribed stone of Baginbun and the Norman fortifications will complete the historic mile. An intriguing and unique tour with Fethard on Sea author and historian Liam Ryan.

Friday, October 31 - Oulart Hill and Village, Co. Wexford A visit to Oulart Hill and the United Irish Memorial, Tulach a' tSolais memorial to 1798. This magnificent memorial was designed by internationally renowned, Gorey-born sculptor, the late Michael Warren (1940-2025). The tour will also include a visit to Oulart Village, Mise Éire 1916 memorial, and audio-visual presentation on 1798 at the Bygone Days House of Stories with the promise of tea and Halloween brack! Led by author and historian Brian Cleary.

Saturday, November 1 – Ferns, Co. Wexford A visit to historic Ferns and its association with many of the leading figures and pivotal events in Irish history. Explore the thriving village’s unique history and Ferns Castle, which was the political base of Diarmait Mac Murchada, King of Leinster. With historian and expert guide, Catherine MacPartlin. n

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The Kennedy Summer School – a resounding success

Above L-R: Colm Tóibín and Eamonn Hore (Deputy CEO, Wexford Co. Council), RTE broadcaster Seán O’Rourke, Maria Nolan with KSS Chair Eileen Dunne.

‘Feicfimid sibh an bhliain seo chugainn’ said Kennedy Summer School (KSS) Chair Eileen Dunne as she closed out four days of performance, discussion, and debate on Irish politics, culture, and history in the town of New Ross last month, ancestral home of the family of JFK. The festival kicked off this year with the Global Horizons Trade and Economic forum in the Brandon House Hotel. This was a collaborative event with Wexford Chamber and Wexford Co. Council and brought together entrepreneurs and business owners. It covered topics from tariffs to corporation tax, the problems facing the EU in terms of competitiveness, and the opportunities and challenges posed by AI. One of the most popular events of the festival is the tea-party, recreating the tea-party hosted for JFK at the Kennedy Homestead in Dunganstown during his visit in 1963. It is now hosted by the OPW at the Arboretum with culinary delights supplied by Wexford Federation ICA. This year’s guest was RTE broadcaster Seán O’Rourke, who engaged in a lively conversation with former TD Seán Connick. Also at the teaparty was Anna Sinnott, who shared a photo of herself alongside President Kennedy at Dunganstown in June 1963.

The discussions moved to St. Michael’s Theatre on the Thursday evening, where the KSS was officially opened by Uachtarán Cumann Lúthchleas Gael, Jarlath Burns. Talking about the GAA, he cited one of his favourite JFK quotes, ‘A man may die, nations may rise and fall, but an idea lives on – the idea of the GAA was born on November 1st 1884,’ he continued, ‘as an antidote to the colonial mentality of the British empire, it is an idea that lives on today.’

Thursday concluded with a screening of ‘From That Small Island’, a film/documentary version of Bríona Nic Dhiarmada’s four-part TV series telling the history of Ireland and its people from Rathlin man to the present day – it received a standing ovation in St. Michael’s.

Minister for Further and Higher Education James Lawless was the guest at the Speakers’ Lunch at the Arboretum on Friday. As rumours circulated about the possibility of former Dublin football manager Jim Gavin running for Fianna Fáil in the upcoming Presidential election, Minister Lawless took many by surprise by becoming the first senior Fianna Fáil figure to endorse that Áras bid.

Back at the theatre that evening, journalists from both sides of the Atlantic debated the value of local journalism in a discussion moderated

by Southeast Radio’s Alan Corcoran.

Colm Tóibín was the subject of the Noel Whelan interview, and in an often funny and poignant chat, he talked about living in Trump’s America, ’the big danger is he won’t stop’, he said, ‘the only way to stop him is through elections’ and he predicted a win for New York Mayor front runner Zohran Mamdani in November.

This was a theme continued in the ‘Trump and the Rest of Us’ panel, chaired by RTE’s Tony Connelly. There was talk about the continuing war in Ukraine, the new normal under President Trump, the concerns around Project 25 and the risk of a global financial crisis as a result of the everchanging tariff regime. The breakdown of the transatlantic alliance was also touched on, but what struck most of the attendees was the unwillingness of the American guests, Republican and Democrat, to criticise Israel.

Day three featured debates on housing, the changing face of Irish America, and the race for the Áras.

Special Guest Jim Acosta stole the show in the afternoon as he recalled his time as Chief White House Correspondent at CNN and his run-ins with President Trump. And looking ahead to the mid-term elections next year, warned that President Trump is trying to rig the election before it takes place!

But for political nerds here, all eyes were on the Presidential panel and how prospective Fianna Fáil candidate Billy Kelleher would react to the breaking news from Kerry that the Taoiseach had come out in favour of former Dublin GAA manager Jim Gavin’s candidacy. Kelleher said he didn’t know the party was in talks with Gavin when he announced his candidacy, but added that he would have gone ahead anyway.

US Ambassador Edward Walsh closed the Summer School, saying: “President Kennedy says we should not seek the Republican answer or the Democratic answer, but the right answer… schools like this exist to explore the Irish answer and the American answer in pursuit of resolving some of the world's most difficult conflicts.”

The audience was wowed with a performance of ‘Putting on the Ritz’ by the Wexford Academy of Irish Dancers. And the school came to a close with a rousing rendition of the ‘Boys of Wexford’ by the New Ross and District Pipe Band.

The Kennedy Summer School is supported by Wexford County Council, the OPW, Fáilte Ireland, Purdue University, the Purdue Policy Research Institute, and New Ross Municipal District. n

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A talented film family The multi-talented Cloke family pictured at the film premiere of their movie ‘Sidelines’ in Rackards of Caim on 19th September 2025.

The movie has started to pick up international awards and looks set to be a huge success.

Check the movie out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61 564873154451 n

Enniscorthy Theatre Company Enniscorthy Theatre Company will present three exciting plays in Enniscorthy running from 20-22 November 2025.

Recently n

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Tickets on sale soon for Enniscorthy Panto ‘Sleeping Beauty’

Irish National Heritage Park’s new activity zone Paracyclist Linda Kelly, winner of a gold and a silver medal in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games as a sighted pilot for Katie-George Dunlevy, visited the Irish National Heritage Park last month. Linda took a break from cycling to try out axe throwing at The Range – the Irish National Heritage Park’s newest activity zone which offers archery, and spear and axe throwing to those aged 12 and over.

Under the guidance of instructor and guide Luke, Linda got the basics quickly and let fly a volley of the historic weapons at the targets from the safety of the cages at the range. Linda commented that she “really enjoyed the experience” – a fun change from her cycling training.

The Irish National Heritage Park is a registered charity and not-for-profit open-air museum, founded in 1987. It is dedicated to bringing over 9,000 years of Irish history to life.

Set across 35 acres of woodland, marshland and shoreline beside the River Slaney in Ferrycarrig, it features 16 reconstructed heritage sites from Ireland’s Mesolithic, Neolithic, Viking, Early Christian and Norman periods.

The Park aims to educate, inspire and immerse visitors of all ages in Ireland’s past through guided tours, experiential learning, costumed interpretation, workshops and the conservation of traditional skills. www.irishheritage.ie/ n

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

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Fleadh volunteers celebrated at civic reception

The last two years of preparations saw a huge recruitment drive for those who would become the intricate cogs of the massive wheel driving Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. Volunteers were required in their masses, ensuring that the All-Ireland competitions could run smoothly in the schools, concerts and events would be sufficiently stewarded, the hundreds of thousands of visitors into our town would be welcomed, ushered, and directed and everyone made to feel as welcome as possible.

Support was required at the car parks, the Gig Rig, the Jam Tent, the National Opera House, the transport hub in Redmond Square etc, and to answer questions and offer directions. Volunteer photographers to capture all the magic. Green Fleadh Volunteers to maintain a constant presence around the streets keeping on top of the cleaning duties. And the Volunteer Hub support to feed and pamper the endless stream of yellow teeshirts dropping into the Friary Hall in between their shifts.

Over 1,000 volunteers signed up to help and were assigned to various duties by the volunteer coordinator. That doesn’t even include the numerous agency volunteers and those associated with Comhaltas who gave their time and expertise free of charge to ensure the best possible result.

On Saturday 13th of September, a Civic Reception was held at Whites of Wexford, as a small token of appreciation to these amazing volunteers. They arrived in their hundreds and each was presented with a certificate and a special photograph of the iconic harp, now a permanent feature and reminder of those two special years for Wexford.

The guests gathered around tables, sharing stories of their experiences, reminiscing over photographs on display from the volunteer photographers, and listening to praise from the dignitaries including Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council Cllr. Joe Sullivan, Mayor of Wexford Cllr. Garry Laffan, Chief Executive and Chair of the Fleadh Executive Committee (FEC) Eddie Taaffe, Comhaltas representatives, and FEC Vice Chair Barbara

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Walsh, the Volunteer Coordinator Ronan Griffin, and a representative volunteer photographer, Bobby Devereux.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford Co. Council Cllr Joe Sullivan welcomed the crowd and offered his sincere thanks on behalf of the people of Wexford.

Mayor of Wexford Cllr. Gary Laffan noted, “I am one of the luckiest Mayors of Wexford to have worn these chains of office during this magical time for our town. Volunteering is good for those who benefit from the action, but also great for those who give of their time so selflessly. It gives people a sense of belonging, a sense of community, a sense of achievement and contributes to a person’s overall wellness.”

Council Chief Executive and Chair of the Fleadh Executive Committee Eddie Taaffe commended all those who had given their time selflessly to make the Fleadh the huge success that it was.

He also thanked the wider team including the Wexford Co. Council staff and all the voluntary agencies involved.

FEC Vice Chair Barbara Walsh spoke of her pride in her county and her love of Irish music and culture and how being part of the organising committee for the past two years was both challenging and extremely rewarding.

Volunteer Coordinator Ronan Griffin, from Wexford Co. Council, said that coordinating and scheduling almost 1,000 volunteers was both the most challenging and most rewarding project of his career to date.

Volunteer Photographer Bobby Deverux regaled the crowd with some tales from the various venues he had visited while capturing many special moments.

Master of Ceremonies for the day was George Lawlor TD. The volunteers were entertained with music by Derek Cunningham, Bride Street Folk Group, and Irish musicians and dancers from ‘Celtic Roots’. n

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PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006

The Big Bewleys Coffee Morning in aid of Hospice The Forge, Crossabeg, 25th Sept. 2025 Top left: Kathleen Dawnes and May Carty. Top right: Cathy Nolan and Fionn Nolan. Right: Fiona and Triona Wilson and Mary Doyle. Below left: Ann McCormack and Marion Ambrose. Below right: Anne and John Meagher.

Bottom left: Kathleen Lynott, Eithne Fitzpatrick, Ann Marie Curtis and Kathleen Arthur. Bottom right: Alice Devine and Marie Dillon.

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GAA President opens Kennedy Summer School Words & pics by Maria Nolan It is always a pleasure to meet with GAA President Jarlath Burns, who, regardless of where or when, has a word for everyone and looks genuinely delighted to stop and chat with all and sundry.

This was particularly in evidence at the opening of the Kennedy School in New Ross recently, arriving to perform the official opening at St. Michael’s Theatre the tall man in the well-tailored sharp suit went down on his knees bringing himself to the same level as the young players from the local club the Geraldine O’Hanrahans who were lined up to greet him.

‘You probably don’t know who I am,’ he told the excited children, ‘but in the GAA you are the most important people because you are our future and we will be relying on you in this very strange and complicated world to give up your time free of charge, like what the adults in your club are doing now to manage and to coach and to mentor and to do all of the things your adults are doing for you now.’

Before thanking them for their beautiful gift, a framed club jersey, which he said were the same colours as his own home team, Silverbridge in Armagh, he told them to remember what John F Kennedy once said, ‘Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country. That’s a principal you should all have for your club, ask not what your club can do for you but what you can do for it.’ That’s what has kept the GAA strong in every parish in Ireland all these years – the people willing to bring the beauty of our games to the next generation.

‘The past built the present and you are now the future and that’s what we are all about in the GAA.’ It struck me watching the children hang on the words of this charismatic man that they would remember forever when and where they met him just like those who were fortunate enough to meet JFK never forgot the experience.

Unity was the recurring theme of Mr. Burn’s fireside chat with former RTE newsreader and chairperson of the Kennedy Summer School Eileen Dunne who pressed him on issues such as the merger of the GAA, the Ladies Gaelic Football Association, and the Camogie Association. ‘It’s a big challenge’ President Burns replied, ‘but we have to pull it off, it’s all about unity in the Association and we are being led by the only person for the job, former President of Ireland Mary McAleese.’

President Burns also spoke about his time as school principal and the challenges it brings in today’s world, ‘I think the future is being curious about difference, not seeing difference as something that you should be fearful of, but being curious about it and embracing it with all its twists and turns and multiple facets.’

Jarlath Burns also spoke about his strong connection to Wexford now that his grandchildren are being brought up here

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with his daughter married to Wexford and St. Anne’s hurler Diarmuid O’Keeffe saying that he visits the county as often as he can take time out from the very busy schedule that is the President’s role in the GAA. A most charming and sensible man and a joy to listen to.

Afterwards, the packed St. Michael’s auditorium was treated to a screening of the feature documentary From that Small Island narrated by Hollywood actor Colin Farrell who sent a special message via video link to the New Ross audience.

‘I am deeply privileged to have been allowed to tell our story as a people and our story as an Island both at home and further abroad,’ Mr. Farrell said, ‘and I hope you are moved and intrigued by what you see and I hope the curiosity that you may feel in what you see lives on in you.’

From that Small Island is written and produced by New Ross woman Briona Nic Dhiarmada and has been shown on RTE as a series – if you haven’t seen it, endeavour to do so as Briona has captured the passion, pride and history of our Irish Nation and our amazing contribution to the rest of the world.

‘For such a small place we make a very big noise.’ n

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A modest proposal A Modest Proposal By David Quinn is a satirical comedy based on the infamous essay by Jonathan Swift which will be on a national tour this November including in Wexford Arts Centre on 28 November at 8pm.

Johnny is excited. He’s cracked a big problem and now he wants to tell us about it. He and his high-powered agency team have come up with a solution to one of the most persistent and difficult social issues in one of the world’s richest economies – that of ongoing child poverty in Ireland. Where others have failed, Johnny has applied blue sky thinking, shifted the mindset and has come up with a solution where everyone wins. Armed with a Powerpoint deck he takes to the stage to present his modest if unorthodox proposal.

ences and critics alike for its biting humour, strong central performance, and modern take on a classic text.

The original essay of the same title by Jonathan Swift was published in 1729.

Swift was born in Dublin, and was living in Trim when he wrote A Modest Proposal. He is internationally renowned as a satirist, with Gulliver’s Travels being his best-known work. He was also known as an Irish patriot, who narrowly avoided a conviction for seditious libel thanks to his use of a pseudonym. His work is still very relevant today, and ripe for adaptation.

A Modest Proposal is David Quinn’s debut play, building on his years of experience as a theatre producer and director, as well as perhaps drawing on his role as founder and director of advertising agency Bloom.

Based on a 1729 essay by Jonathan Swift, A Modest Proposal is a satirical comedy starring Jed Murray and directed by Andy Crook. Set in the boardroom of a strategic Government task force who have been assembled to deal with challenging social issues, Johnny is a very convincing presenter who has applied blue sky thinking, shifted the mindset and has come up with a solution where everyone wins. But will the board agree with his modest proposal?

David says: “I am delighted that A Modest Proposal is embarking on an Irish tour this autumn. My work that reinterprets Swift’s piercing satire for our times. This tour gives us a chance to reflect together on how far we’ve come—or perhaps not quite far enough—in addressing issues of social inequality and collective responsibility. Laughter is our entry point, but hopefully it leads us deeper into scrutiny, empathy, and perhaps even a spark for meaningful change.”

The production opened at the New Theatre, Dublin in February 2024, where it garnered excellent reviews from audi-

Director Andy Crook has worked with performer Jed Murray across multiple past projects, including The Sailor’s

Dream by Jack Harte and Becoming Maggie by Donagh Humphrey.

Andy says, “A Modest Proposal should be an outdated, unfunny and irrelevant piece of work, unfortunately it is not. Quite the opposite in fact. Having aid that, it is not funny or should not be funny. The facts and figures that are given about Ireland, its wealth and its poverty are shocking, but the way David puts them into the mouth of a self-righteous, yet morally free marketeer is dismayingly true and as a result horribly funny.”

A Modest Proposal: Written by David Quinn.

Produced by The Glens Arts Centre and Heather Rose of Rose Producing.

Directed by Andy Crook.

Performed by Jed Murray.

Supported by Arts Council and Leitrim County Council.

Wexford Arts Centre, 28 Nov, 8pm.

Age suitability 14+, contains mature content. n

Cultural Harvest Celebrations at Enniscorthy Community Allotments Following the disappointment of having to postpone Culture Night celebrations at Enniscorthy Community Allotments due to the inclement weather conditions on Friday 19th September, it was with great joy that Michael Devereux and his wonderful team presented a Harvest Festival celebration a week later on Friday 25th September.

From live performances to tasty dishes, there was something for everyone to enjoy as the bountiful garden came alive with music, song, food, dance, and face-painting to revel and rejoice in an evening of diversity, creativity and community spirit.

With 19 international families and 16 local community groups now part of the Allotments, this colourful, productive, con-

nective, joyful space is truly a place for everyone in the community.

There is something special about enjoying ourselves ‘Amach Fein Speir’ as they say and that was evident as people mixed and mingled, chatted and laughed savouring the delicious food and enjoying lovely music and vocals from Tony and Fran, and Maura and Anne Marie, and some lively Sean Nos dancing from Pauline, Helen and Phil.

And as daylight faded into night over this magical, eclectic, cultural community event, voices, laughter and musical chords wafted over fruit, flowers and vegetables as all were reluctant to take their leave.

– MARIA NOLAN

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SIDELONG GLANCES: AN OBLIQUE LOOK AT THE SEA CURATED BY CATHERINE BOWE FEATURING WORK BY ORLA BARRY, HERMAN BRAUN-VEGA, GARY COYLE, ANN HAMILTON, AILBHE NÍ BHRIAIN, KATHY PRENDERGAST, AND MARISA RAPPARD. 13TH OCTOBER – 21ST NOVEMBER, 2025 WEXFORD COUNTY COUNCIL, CARRICKLAWN, WEXFORD OPENING EVENT: FRIDAY 10TH OCTOBER, 6PM ALL WELCOME TO ATTEND. FOOD AND WINE SERVED. The Arts Department of Wexford Co. Council, in partnership with Wexford Arts Centre, is pleased to present a group exhibition titled Sidelong Glances: An Oblique Look at the Sea. The exhibition features work from IMMA’s National Collection and invited Irish and international artists, including Orla Barry, Herman Braun-Vega, Gary Coyle, Ann Hamilton, Ailbhe Ní Bhriain, Kathy Prendergast, and Marisa Rappard.

The exhibition takes its inspiration from a poem written by Marianne Moore in 1921 titled “The Grave.” The poem stems from Moore’s personal experience of observing

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the sea with her mother, where her brother’s intrusion on their view inspired reflections on the human tendency to focus on the immediate rather than the larger picture: “Man, looking into the sea— taking the view from those who have as much right to it as you have it to yourself— it is human nature to stand in the middle of a thing but you cannot stand in the middle of this.”

Sidelong Glances: An Oblique Look at the Sea extends Moore’s examination of the sea as a powerful, indifferent force, a place of both beauty and death, and interprets it as a critique of human ambition and its impact on the natural world, which can be linked to colonial attitudes towards expansion. The poem’s central image of the sea as a “well excavated grave” suggests that human attempts to dominate and control nature are ultimately futile, a perspective that resonates with critiques of colonialism’s impact on land and societies.

All the works in the exhibition cast a sidelong view at these ideas. Herman BraunVega’s interpretation of Georges de La Tour’s The Card Sharp with the Ace of Diamonds recontextualizes themes of deception, power, and social inequality.

Braun-Vega, known for fusing classical European art with Latin American and postcolonial commentary, unearths social and political “intrusions’ – hidden manipulations that underpin societal systems.

Ailbhe Ní Bhriain’s large-scale Jacquard tapestries echo Braun-Vega’s themes, and

despite their differences, the works intersect meaningfully around the idea of intrusion as a critical lens: how external or hidden forces impact environments, whether cultural, political, or historical.

The tapestries, translated to Jacquard from loose digital collage, depict excavated landscapes populated by a cast of extinct or endangered animals.

The sea in Moore’s poem is not just a physical force but a symbolic presence that reflects human psychology, especially the ego’s tension between control and humility. The poem draws attention to how we perceive the sea and, by extension, nature, through our own needs, rather than accepting it on its own terms. This reveals the subjectivity of perception. The line “The sea is a collector, quick to return a rapacious look” connects perception with consequence. The act of looking, of perceiving with an agenda/ego, is met with a mirrored, possibly violent response.

Filament II by the artist Ann Hamilton is a sculpture with blurred boundaries. The spinning curtain of distressed organza envelopes the viewer but is transparent, so a shadowy silhouette is still visible to others standing outside. Hamilton often explores the threshold between the visible and invisible, and, in Filament II, the barelythere elements highlight how much of what we perceive exists on the edges of attention. This reflects ideas about the limitations of perception and the selectivity of attention.

Sidelong Glances: An Oblique Look at the Sea will be situated in the County Buildings and run from Monday, 13th October, to Friday, 21st November, 2025. n

Slaney artS

Above left: Breast Cup, 2025, jacquard tapestry, 203 x 152cm. Above right: Busted Nose, 2024, mosaic glass and custom mahogany frame, 58 x 37cm.

SIREN A S O L O E X H I B I T I O N B Y U R S U L A B U R K E – C U R AT E D B Y A O I F E R U A N E R U N I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H T H E H I G H L A N E S G A L L E R Y WEXFORD ARTS CENTRE – 11TH OCTOBER – 6TH DECEMBER 2025 O P E N I N G E V E N T: S AT U R D AY 1 1 T H O C T O B E R AT 2 P M C U R AT O R A O I F E R U A N E I N C O N V E R S AT I O N W I T H A R T I S T U R S U L A B U R K E Wexford Arts Centre in partnership with the Highlanes Gallery is pleased to present Siren by Ursula Burke. The exhibition will run in the lower and upper galleries from Saturday, 11th October, to Saturday, 6th December, 2025.

Siren is an expansive exhibition that incorporates ceramic sculpture, textile sculpture, tapestry and mosaic sculpture.

Greco-Roman inspired, surrealist mosaic sculpture take centre stage framed by major new monumental tapestry work.

Having lived for over twenty years in post-conflict Belfast, during and after the peace process, Burke has developed a unique continuum of exploration between political and aesthetic inquiries into trauma, wounding and repair in her practice. In form, her work creates an open system of correspondence between antiquity and modernity, introducing a larger poetic and political frame around the dysfunctional relations of trauma and violence that have qualified the building of empires across space and time.

These diverse formal investigations are born out of an exploration of epigen-

etics, especially within post-conflict contexts such at Northern Ireland. In 2004 a spate of teenage suicides happened quite rapidly and in succession in Ardoyne, North Belfast, an area which is known as a Republican stronghold – seen through the lens of epigenetic science is it possible that a predisposition of trauma and depression may be switched on genetically, and passed down from the parent to the child in sites of conflict? What would the implications of such research mean for post-colonial Ireland or sites further afield such as Israel and Palestine?

Ursula Burke is an Irish artist who grew up in the Republic of Ireland and later lived in post-conflict Northern Ireland and uses this experience of living as a part of two cultures as a starting point to develop a dynamic practice that reflects on aesthetics and ethics of different cultures. Her practice incorporates porcelain sculpture, soft sculpture, embroidery sculpture and drawing, investigating identity politics of historical and colonial eras, from tradition to modernity. Burke's work explores precarity in the social realm, power relations in the political arena and post-conflict histories relative to Northern Ireland. Her work creates a

conceptual bridge between antiquity and the contemporary, mining art historical tropes of representation and display. Mediated through craft-based processes re-configured in a fine art context, her approach destabilises conventions around traditional approaches to making by using unexpected juxtapositions of materials, processes and images with a desire that bends towards the surreal.

Ursula Burke’s work for Siren has been supported by an Arts Council of Ireland Project Award 2024. Siren has been developed through Burke’s ongoing collaboration with the Highlanes Gallery National Tour with partners – Wexford Arts Centre and The Butler Gallery.

Wexford Arts Centre is supported by the Arts Council and Wexford Co. Council.

Gallery hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturday from 10am to 4pm. During the Wexford Festival Opera (17th October–1st November), the galleries will open Sunday 19th and Sunday 26th October and Sunday 2nd November from 11am to 4pm, and Monday 20th and Monday 27th October from 10am to 5pm. n

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ooted in

exford

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.

September was a month of transition, a time to tidy up beds, add mulch, and get those hardier greens like kale, spinach, and chard into the soil. Many of us will have pulled the last of the summer crops and given the earth a well-earned boost with compost or manure. It was also the perfect moment to think ahead with garlic and other overwintering crops.

That groundwork now sets us up nicely for October, when the garden takes on a different rhythm.

October feels like the true start of autumn in the garden.

The air cools, the evenings shorten, and tasks shift towards protecting soil, planting for the future, and making good use of cover where possible. Clearing away the last of the spent plants remains a top priority, especially those that may be harbouring pests or disease. Beans, tomatoes, and other summer favourites that are past their best should be pulled and composted if healthy, or disposed of if not.

By starting with a clean slate, you prevent unwanted prob-

lems from lingering into next season.

Fallen leaves are a gift at this time of year. Instead of bagging them up, turn them into something useful. A leaf pile left to break down naturally will, in a year or two, become rich, crumbly leaf mould that improves soil structure and water retention. If you’re short on storage space, even spreading a layer of leaves directly onto vegetable beds will help. Over the months ahead, they’ll break down slowly, feeding the soil while also acting as a blanket against winter weather.

Once beds are clear, adding compost or rotted manure is one of the best ways to care for the soil. The nutrients used up by summer crops need to be replaced, and organic matter does exactly that. It also encourages the soil life beneath the surface to thrive, which in turn supports healthier plants next year. Some gardeners even like to sow a cover crop such as clover, mustard, or rye at this stage.

These green manures grow quickly, protect the soil from

erosion, and can be dug in come spring to return goodness back into the earth.

For anyone lucky enough to have a greenhouse or polytunnel, October is the month when they really start to shine.

The Irish climate brings plenty of rain and damp conditions, which can be harsh on overwintering crops outside. A covered space creates a calmer environment, keeping excess wet at bay and giving cool-season crops a head start.

Garlic, onions, and shallots all do particularly well when planted in a tunnel or greenhouse now. They quietly establish roots through winter and reward you with strong, healthy bulbs next year.

If you don’t have a polytunnel, don’t worry, cloches, cold frames, or even a simple fleece can offer enough protection to help seedlings along. Spinach, winter lettuce, and hardy Asian greens are all good candidates for a little shelter, giving you fresh pickings even when the weather is at its bleakest.

And of course, October brings pumpkins into the spotlight. If

you planted them earlier in the year, now is the time to gather those bright orange fruits. Once they’ve developed their deep colour and the skins have hardened, they’re ready to be picked. A cool, dry spot will keep them in good condition for weeks, whether you plan to carve them for Halloween or turn them into warming soups.

There’s a sense of winding down in October, but it’s also a month of quiet productivity. By clearing, mulching, composting, and planting a few key crops, you’re keeping the garden alive through the colder season. There’s great satisfaction in knowing that while growth slows above ground, the soil and roots beneath are quietly preparing for the months to come.

For more updates, tips, and the occasional gardening mishap, you can follow me on Instagram @rootedinwexford. Here’s to a steady, rewarding October in the garden. n

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Enniscorthy’s Kathy reaches national brown bread final

Congrats to Enniscorthy’s Kathy Bolger (pictured) who qualified as one of eight finalists in the National Brown Bread Baking Competition, supported by Euronics, which took place at the National Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Tullamore, last month. Although not emerging as the overall winner, Kathy was still “thrilled to have been chosen to take part in such a prestigious competition.” n

On 3rd October Rachel Allen will showcase the brand-new Miele built-in kitchen at Joyces of Wexford with a live cookery demonstration.

Booking is essential, click the link below: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/miele-cookery-demonstration-with-rachel-allentickets-1667062391489 Please note, spaces are limited and this is a standing-only event. n

'Waste Not, Want Not' toolkit – a food waste reduction programme 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

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Closure of one of Enniscorthy’s nationally renowned cafes Following a devastating fire back in February this year, Paula and Simon, the proprietors of The Wilds Cafe in Enniscorthy, have decided to permantly close that business.

They issued a statement saying: “It is with great sadness that we officially announce the closure of our beloved Enniscorthy store and cafe. I have been putting off writing this post to be honest, as it feels so heavy and stirs so much emotion....

As most of you know, we had a fire back in February and we remained closed while we awaited the insurance settlement. After much soul searching and deliberation, we have had to make the very difficult decision not to re-open.

We are so sorry to have to say goodbye to our beautiful cafe and shop, to our staff, to our wonderful local producers and suppliers, and to our amazing customers, neighbours and friends in Enniscorthy and beyond.

Enniscorthy, thank you so much for an incredible 10 years, we have loved being part of your community.

Meanwhile, we would love to see you all in Wicklow, where you will see a few welcoming and familiar faces from Enniscorthy.” n 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

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Lots on at the Allotments

Above: Harvest of Cultures celebration at Enniscorthy Community Allotments. Below: The Little Buds planting sprouting broccoli and lettuce.

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 multiaward-winning facility in Enniscorthy...

September was another fantastic month here in the allotments, we had the launch of the new mosaics in the Dome

by Enniscorthy Municipal District Cathaoirleach BarbaraAnne Murphy. There was a great turn out and It was a lovely afternoon in the allotments celebrating everyone in the community that came together to make this fabulous master-

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piece. The floor was made from thousands of pieces of mosaic tiles which were glued to paper designs in reverse then cemented into boards and then installed on the floor in the Dome. Artist Helen McLean designed the mosaic floor as a celebration of local floral and fauna. In the design, the flower fills the centre of the floor, created using soft tones of pink and purple. The honey bee rests in the centre of the flower a symbol of the importance of nature and the importance of the bee to our world. Rotating around the flower are the symbols of nature that we encounter in our gardens and green areas. The hedgehog, ladybird, dragonfly, butter-

Slaney fooD & Drink  October is a great time to get ahead and make early sowings of hardy

ECA Gardening Tips...

annual flowers and bedding plants, along with vegetable crops like onions, garlic, broad beans and peas.  Plant out spring cabbages and don’t forget to cover them over with netting to protect them from pigeons.  October is the time to plant bare root fruit trees and shrubs to give their roots time to establish before winter.  Add a layer of mulch around plants to protect them from the cold.  Keep an eye on Brussels sprouts, removing yellowing leaves to prevent grey mould.  Remove all plant debris from your vegetable patches to reduce the pests and diseases that overwinter and spread.  Maintain your ponds by clearing dead leaves and sludge.  Clean out bird feeders and boxes. n fly, red squirrel, and the birds. They are daily reminders of the beauty of our world and how we need to protect it. During the celebration we remembered those who took part in this amazing project who are no longer with us – Paul Keane a good friend to all here in the allotments and Eamonn Sheridan who was a large part of the creation of the mosaics. Thank you to WWETB and Creative Ireland whose funding made this amazing project possible.

Our Little Buds had their final planting activity of the season, where they all enjoyed planting sprouting broccoli and lettuce.

They all loved the story time afterwards and drawing a picture about their favourite part of the story. We are now all looking forward to some spooky Halloween fun coming up soon.

Work is well underway on the mural being done on the back of the shed as part of the Oak Tree Project here in the allotments. The Catch Up Monday group and KITE group have really enjoyed getting their creative juices flowing with this project and find it to be very therapeutic.

We didn’t get to hold Culture Night here in the allotments this year due to the weather conditions and so we had a Harvest of Cultures celebration instead, it was just fabulous. There was a fantastic turnout and the weather was amazing. We had singing, dancing, and plenty of delicious food, the face-painting was a big hit with the children. It was fantastic to see the community coming together for a magical night of celebration through culture here in the allotments. Thank you to Wexford County Council for funding this amazing event. n

Above: The launch of the mosaics in the Dome. Below: Group working on the on-site mural.

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Best of luck to all of the Co. Wexford food producers competing in the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards Finals 2025 in Dingle later this month.

We include graphics for some of the Wexford finalists on this page.

To keep up to date: https://www.facebook.com/WexfordFoodProducersNetwork instagram.com/thewexfordfoodproducersnetwork wexfordfoodfamily.com n

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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’s ‘The Food Studio’, Ed Murphy (Founder), Minister Peter Burke TD, Julien Clemot (Dunbrody School of Cookery), with some of Co. Wexford’s finest food producers.

GreenTechHQ founder Ed Murphy highlighted 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 Brian Kehoe (Wexford Local Development), Julien Clemot (Dunbrody School of Cookery), Senator Cathal Byrne, Minister Peter Burke TD, mission is to ensure Ed Murphy (Founder GreenTechHQ). 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.

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. n

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NWED Turns 20!

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.

Are you a female entrepreneur in Co. Wexford ready to turn ambition into action? Don’t miss this year’s National Women’s Enterprise Event: Making It Happen.

Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, this is your space to learn, connect, and grow.

Date: Thursday 16th October 2025.

Time: 8.30am – 2.00pm.

Includes networking & lunch.

Location: Talbot Hotel Wexford.

Tickets: €30.

Book Now: https://tr.ee/EX5cDO

Keynote: Ruth Larkin Ambassador: Sharon Ginnetty Panelists: Niamh Byrne & Deirdre Delaney MC: Shonagh Lyons

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Meet the incredible line-up:

https://www.facebook.com/LocalEnterpriseOfficeWexford for more details. n

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Local Enterprise Office, Wexford Co. Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93.

Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie. Tel: 053 9196020. https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/ n

Market Explorer Grant

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

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Interesting data on commercial vacancy The commercial vacancy rate in Co. Wexford was 10.6% in June 2025, which is significantly lower than the national average of 14.6%, and is the second best in the country, according to the latest GeoDirectory Commercial Vacancy Rates Report published last month. Compared to the same period in 2024, the commercial vacancy rate in Wexford remains unchanged.

Of the urban areas in Wexford surveyed, New Ross had the highest commercial vacancy rate (23.3%), while Gorey had the lowest (9.7%). Enniscorthy recorded 16.3% – marginally lower than the previous year (16.6%). Wexford town saw a noticeable increase from 12.6% to 13.2% over the same 12-month period.

While the important ‘retail & wholesale’ vacancy rate is remarkably similar, and high, in the four major towns in the county, each at around 30%, it is generally considered that Wexford and Gorey have a better ‘mix’ of outlets, while Enniscorthy has a preponderance of bookies, charity shops, coffee shops, and takeaways. n

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County Wexford Chamber events in Enniscorthy

For all County Wexford Chamber news: www.countywexfordchamber.ie and https://www.facebook.com/CountyWexfordChamber

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

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Wexford business Kent Stainless has just been awarded the Ireland’s Best Managed Companies accolade at the 17th annual awards programme.

Recognise your skills with Alan Maher As part of the Library Skills for Life Programme, join Alan Maher in Enniscorthy Library on 23rd October at 7pm for the first in a series of workshops and talks to enhance your employability. Learn the skills necessary for preparing your CV and filling out set application forms to get that interview.

Alan Maher is the owner of Maher Consulting which he established in 1999. Since then, Alan has developed a proven track record in helping thousands of people to achieve advancement in their careers. An experienced business mentor who has worked with a wide range of individuals across all business sectors and types, Alan is also a longstanding Business Mentor with Wexford and Laois Local Enterprise Offices. He is also well-known for his work helping people to prepare for all types of Job Interview.

Booking essential: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/4443474 n

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Useful information for dog owners in Co. Wexford Pets First operates a dog kennels in Tomanoole, Ballycarney, Enniscorthy, on behalf of Wexford County Council. For dogs being reclaimed, the owner must pay the fine for the dog being loose and any other pound costs. The contact number is 053 9388339.

Dog Warden: The dog warden is Cabrini Desmond who may be contacted at 087 6293043.

The dog warden can seize dogs not under control in a public place and have them impounded.

There is a fee of €50 for the surrender of unwanted dogs to the dog warden.

Control of Dogs: All owners must ensure their dogs are: n n n n n

Licensed Under control when in public (on a lead) Have an identity tag with contact details for their owner on their collar Certain dogs must be muzzled and on a strong chain when in public Clean up after the dog if it fouls in a public place and dispose of the deposit in a bin.

Fines of €100 for minor breaches of the Act apply but fines of up to €2,500 may apply if the on-the-spot fine is not paid or for more serious breaches of the Control of Dogs Act. Remember, your dog can be a killer around sheep so keep it under control.

n n

2nd vaccination (2-4 weeks). €50 voucher towards neutering/spaying dog.

A valid form of photo I.D. such as a current passport or driving licence, together with a utility bill issued within the last three months is required.

Rules for restricted dog breeds or strains and crosses of them: n

They must be kept on a short strong lead by a person over 16 years who is capable of controlling them.

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muzzled whenever they are in a public place.

If you are considering taking in a rescue dog, for €70 you can rehome a dog from the council kennels at Pets First in Ballycarney, Co. Wexford.

n

wear a collar bearing the name and address of their owner at all times.

The €70 includes:

American Pit Bull Terrier, English Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Mastiff, Dobermann Pinscher, Rottweiler, German Shepherd (Alsatian), Rhodesian Ridgeback, Japanese Akita, Japanese Tosa, Bandog. n

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Microchip & registration.

Veterinary health check.

1st vaccination.

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Restricted dog breeds or strains and crosses of them:

Slaney PeTS

MOYNE VETERINARY HOSPITAL Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy.

T: (053) 9233187, 9236674.

F: (053) 9236674.

E: moynevet@gmail.com

VET DIARY FOR OCTOBER It’s October and with it is the anniversary of the opening of our Practice in October 1941. It is 83 years on the go and spanning three generations of farmers who we have walked alongside over those years. Also the townspeople of Enniscorthy and neighbouring villages who have been loyal customers of the practice down through the years.

The personnel in the Moyne inevitably change too, as the older vets bow out younger vets come in but the ethic has remained the same down through the years. It’s love for the job, compassion for the animals, and a kinship with the clients.

Over the years you get to know the people you are dealing with, their spouses and family, and in a rural community people tend to stick together in good times and the tougher days when there are struggles. You get to see the people at lots of levels – when things go right and when things go wrong… that’s when the true colours show. Thankfully we have been blessed with some great clients

with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital

over the years and I’m happy to say we have become friends along the way.

Practice has changed so much even in the last 30 years especially on the small animal front. Each year it builds and has become a big part of most veterinary mixed practices now.

In the UK and abroad the day of the “mixed” practice in that the vet will treat farm animals, equine, and small animals is in the decline. It is still very common here in Ireland and it’s great to see. Being out on farms, treating various different types of animals brings a variety and a freshener to the vet’s day.

I love the variety and enjoy meeting the farmers, the horse clients, and the small animal owners too.

Each has a different focus and as a vet you’ve got to put a different “hat” on for different situations, being precise, compassionate, and with a commonsense approach helps build trust in the relationships with each.

Just to say ‘thank you’ for the great loyalty shown to us over the last eight plus decades and we look forward to the future with optimism. n

If you have a topic you’d like Joe Kavanagh to address please email Slaney News at: slaneynews@gmail.com OPENING HOURS (6 DAYS A WEEK): 9.00am–1.00pm and 2.00pm–6.00pm Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment): Daily 9.30–10.30am, 2.30–3.30pm, 5.00–6.00pm.

24-hour, on-call, Emergency Service: (053) 9233187.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Full blood analysis (haematology, biochemistry) Gas anaesthetic – Digital X-rays – Ultrasound – Bioenergy Dermatological testing – Kinesiology – Prescription diets Herbal remedies – Homeopathy – Allergy testing

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CAROLINE GETS MOTORING Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the founder and editor of the online automotive magazine Changing Lanes and a jury member for Irish Car of the Year.

Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at

www.changinglanes.ie

CITROEN C3

CITROEN C3

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Slaney moToring The Citroen C3 has long been a favourite among Irish motorists. This year, a brand new one has gone on sale with the choice of petrol and electric powertrains for the very first time. Priced from just €23,400 for both, the new C3 is a stylish and affordable small car.

Rivals like the Hyundai Inster and BYD Dolphin Surf may offer stiff competition on price, but the C3’s playful design with roof rails and bright colour options give it tonnes of character. It sits higher off the ground than your average small hatchback, while the signature three-point LED lights and updated Citroen badge round off a smart, modern look. 17-inch alloy wheels come as standard.

Step inside, and the new C3 keeps things simple but welcoming. Details like cheerful phrases etched into the door handles and Citroen’s cushy ‘Advanced Comfort Seats’ bring a friendly charm to the cabin. Plush fabrics are mixed with harder plastics, but at the price there's not much to complain about.

There’s a new compact steering wheel, basic digital display and 10-inch touchscreen that’s more functional than flashy but does come with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Standard features include rear parking sensors and manual air conditioning.

Upgrading to the Max brings features like heated

Interior

seats, heated steering wheel, wireless smartphone charging and a reversing camera.

For a car of its size, the C3 makes clever use of space. The boxy shape translates into good headroom and a rear bench that, while technically will seat three, is best suited to two.

There’s decent legroom all the same for a small car, USB-C ports for device charging, and Isofix points on the outer rear seats. Boot space comes in at a respectable 310 litres, although there’s no underfloor storage for charging cables.

On the road, the electric C3 I tested (badged E-C3) delivers exactly what’s needed for everyday driving. With 113hp and a 0–100 km/h time of 11 seconds, it’s not built for speed but offers enough pep to feel agile in town and join motorways without any fuss.

The new platform and suspension setup shine on Irish roads, delivering a comfortable and refined ride. It’s composed and quiet, and while it does lean in corners if you push it, the C3 remains predictable and easy to drive whether in the city or cruising on open roads.

The 44kWh battery offers a WLTP range of up to 320km, making it best suited for town and suburban driving. On longer motorway trips, efficiency does drop off, and the lack of a heat pump or battery preconditioning means planning is essential, particularly in colder weather.

Fast charging at up to 100kW allows a 20–80% top-up in around 26 minutes, while a full home charge via a 7.4kW wallbox takes roughly seven hours.

Pricing starts at €23,400 for both the 1.2 petrol and electric versions in the Plus trim, with the tested Max version of the E-C3 coming in at €25,650.

For buyers sticking mostly to shorter journeys and who have home charging available, the EC3 is a cheerful, practical and impressively comfortable choice of small car. But for frequent motorway users, the petrol C3 still offers greater peace of mind. n

L&M STARTER & ALTERNATOR REPAIR SERVICE CARS, VANS, 4X4, TRUCKS, TRACTORS, MARINE, QUADS, LAWNMOWERS AND GENERATORS. WE REPAIR ALL UNITS. ALL APPLICATIONS CATERED FOR.

Island Road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9235933.

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Slaney Slaney moToring aD

Wexford Volkswagen Stages Rally Declan Roche captures the action from Saltmills and Broadway, last month.

Clockwise from top left: 1. Garry Bradley, Co. Wexford, and Shane O’Neill, Co. Wexford in a Ford Escort. 2. Frank Kelly, Co. Tyrone and Lauren Kelly, Co. Tyrone, in Ford Escort Mk2. 3. Stewart Morrison and Johnny Baird in their Escort at Saltmills. 4. Chris Lacey, Co. Wexford, and Declan Carroll, Co. Wexford, in a Vauxhall Nova gsi. 5. David Dowling, Co. Carlow, and Patrick Dowling, Co. Carlow, in a Ford Escort. 6. Damian Campbell, Co. Fermanagh, and Declan McGarrity, Co. Fermanagh.

7. Adrian Hetherington, Co. Tyrone, and Gary Nolan, Co. Wexford in a Ford Escort. 8. Overall Winner Michael Boyle Co. Donegal, in a Skoda Fabia RS Rally. n

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Slaney SPorT

Sport snippets 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 on page 121.

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

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

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!

Well done to the Riverside Park Hotel for sponsoring Enniscorthy Town FC’s ‘A’ team jerseys. Always great to see local businesses sponsoring local clubs.

Pickle Ball now available in Enniscorthy

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

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

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National boxing event to take place in Enniscorthy

Éire Season 004 returns with a bang as Enniscorthy's Mick “The Truth” Abidoye Jr. headlines his long-awaited homecoming fight. The event, set for October 11th at the IFA Centre, starting at 3pm, promises to be one of the most exciting cards in Éire Season's history.

This special night will not only showcase Ireland’s rising boxing talent, but also support the Bukky Foundation, which provides care and assistance for families who have lost a parent or loved one. The foundation’s mission is to ensure no child or family faces grief and hardship alone.

There are nine confirmed fights taking place featuring many boxers from Co. Wexford.

Main Event:

viewers King Hurley and Richie the Foods joining the commentary team.

Local Support: Éire Season 004 is proudly backed by Wexford businesses including Mizzoni's Pizza (Enniscorthy), Anthony Dobbs Electrical, The White House Pub, and Weather Seal PVC Systems.

Tickets & Pay Per View (PPV): Tickets have sold out so none are now available, but a PPV livestream will be available for fans worldwide.

With four title fights, major Irish prospects, and the emotional homecoming of Mick Abidoye Jr., this promises to be an unforgettable night for Irish boxing and the community it supports. n

• Mick “The Truth” Abidoye Jr. vs. SA Supreme (UK).

Co-Main Event: • Patrick Tommy vs. Keith Carter.

Title Fights: • Raul Flow vs. Anginson.

• Taz (current Éire champion) vs. Rian Giasheen.

Undercard Highlights: • Brayden Davis, cousin of Conor McGregor, and a decorated amateur, takes on a mystery opponent.

• Brandon “Bomber” Mills, Prince Fa, Kingsley Carter, Billy Harmon and others will also step into the ring.

Alongside the fights, the event will feature a unique blend of sport and entertainment, with influencers and popular food re-

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More more information, email: createdineire1@gmail.com Check out: ‘createdineire ‘ on Facebook for details on undercard, etc.

Slaney SPorT

EDERMINE FERRY ROWING CLUB RECEIVES TEXACO SUPPORT FOR SPORT Edermine Ferry Rowing Club has been chosen as the winner of the Wexford County award in this year’s Texaco Support for Sport initiative. €5,000 has been presented to the Club to purchase covers to protect its boats from Winter weather.

Established in 1973, and located on the banks of the River Slaney, Edermine Ferry Rowing Club caters for over 100 members and promotes the enjoyment and the benefits of rowing to people of all ages. A friendly and supportive club, it welcomes members of all skill levels and abilities.

Now in its fifth year, the Texaco Support for Sport initiative – organised by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited, the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand – sees a fund of €130,000 set aside annually for allocation in equal amounts of €5,000 to successful applicants chosen on a county-by-county basis. Previous Wexford winners were Kilmore United FC (2021), Menapians Athletic Club (2022), Aspire Gymnastics Academy, Kiltealy (2023) and Naomh Éanna GAA Club (2024).

Congratulating the county winners on the immense contribution that they make to the heart of community life in Ireland, James Twohig, Director of Ire-

The presentation to Edermine Ferry Rowing Club’s Assistant Secretary Fiona Gainfort, and fellow club members, was made at Edermine Bridge, Borrmount. Pictured with them was Valero Area Sales Manager, Damien Burke.

land Operations, Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited was particularly praiseworthy of the unstinting work of club officials and volunteers, and noted that, “Since its inception, we are proud to have distributed almost €650,000 to a variety of more than 125 sports clubs under the Texaco Support for Sport initiative.”

Overseeing the judging process was Texaco Support for Sport ambassador, former Irish rugby international and wellknown broadcaster, Donncha O’Callaghan. Commenting, he said: “As adjudicator – and from my knowledge of sport gained at junior, senior and international level – the most reassuring aspect of the Texaco Support for Sport initiative is that it gives clubs rare access

to funds which are not linked to popularity, membership size or success.”

Describing the Wexford club as ‘a very worthy winner’, he went on to add: “Congratulations to Edermine Ferry Rowing Club. In a sport that is thriving in Ireland, I’m delighted to help fund a basic requirement that is vital to this brilliant community-based club. Well done to all – pull like dogs!”

Entries for the 2026 Texaco Support for Sport initiative will open again in the New Year for all clubs, including those whose application may have been unsuccessful previously.

Further information may be viewed at www.TexacoSupportforSport.com n

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Adman’s €75k for local clubs Adman Steel Sheds, based near Gorey, has reaffirmed its commitment to local communities by contributing a total of €75,000 in grassroots funding this year, with the latest €35,000 being awarded to 10 sports clubs nominated

by Adman employees.

Each club will receive €3,500 to invest in equipment, facilities, and youth programmes, funded entirely by profits from Adman’s Lean Factory Tour — a not-forprofit experience demonstrating Lean Manufacturing principles in action.

The following clubs will benefit from this year’s donations: U12 Craanford Boys GAA Oylegate United Women’s Soccer Clonee GAA

employees live, work, and play.

County Wexford Youth Darts Shamrock Rovers AFC Clonard Ladies LGFA Ballyhogue GAA Oulart the Ballagh GAA Ballygarrett GAA Camolin FC This marks the second year of Adman’s staff-nominated support programme, which has now supported 16 clubs across two years. By linking business innovation with social good, Adman continues to strengthen the communities where its

“Our staff live, work, and play in these communities, and it’s only right that we give back to the clubs that play such an important role in people’s lives,” said Paul Nolan, Managing Director of Adman Steel Sheds.

From underage GAA teams to grassroots soccer clubs and youth darts associations, the funding will help upgrade facilities, purchase equipment, and create better sporting opportunities for hundreds of players and their families.

Businesses interested in improving operational efficiency while giving back can book the Lean Factory Tour via www.admansteelsheds.com/aboutus/lean n

Above L-R: 1. Oulart the Ballagh GAA’s Shane Reddy and Breda Flood with Conor Lawless, Adman Steel Sheds.

2. Oylegate United Women’s Soccer – Chloe Breen Kavanagh, Adman Steel Sheds, with Caroline Kinsella, Oylegate United Women’s Soccer club.

3. Shamrock Rovers AFC – Sean Miller, Adman Steel Sheds, with Nicky Murphy, Shamrock Rovers AFC.

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Slaney hiSTory & heriTage

Dr George Hadden Lecture Did you know that in the 1880s San Francisco unwittingly provided a consignment of dynamite to be used by Irish republicans to blow up some of the more interesting parts of London and remodel the British capital?

Myles Dungan

Wexford Historical Society Dr George Hadden Memorial Lecture Friday, October 24th at 8pm, Presentation Secondary School, Grogan’s Road, Wexford.

Lecturer: Myles Dungan, ‘Truth and fiction in The Red Branch.’

That’s the starting point of Myles Dungan’s novel The Red Branch, a mash-up of detective and espionage fiction set in ‘Irish’ San Francisco in 1883 with a cast of less than charming underworld psychopaths, crooked politicians, eccentric cops and an imported Irish detective trying to keep his head above water, or at least keep his head!

While most of the story is made up, as good stories should be, there is also a vein of historical fact running through the novel. Some of the characters are real 19th century San Franciscans.

Come and join Myles Dungan as he separates facts from his own inventions in ‘Truth and fiction in The Red Branch’. n

New book on the archaeology and history of Ferns

Congratulations to local archaeologist and historian Barry Lacey (pictured above and left) on the launch of his first book ‘Beneath the Ground of Kings and Saints’ – a wonderful book on the archaeology and history of Ferns. It marks the culmination of years of personal research and results of recent archaeological discoveries. The book was officially launched at The Book Centre in Wexford town on 25th September 2025. n

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Slaney hiSTory Slaney aD & heriTage

Enniscorthy re-enactors at Crooke Words & Pics by Maria Nolan

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Slaney hiSTory & heriTage At Crooke graveyard, Waterford, pikemen and women from all over the country gathered recently to remember the Croppy Boy. The grave, found, restored, and carefully maintained by Tim Corrigan and Margaret O’Neill for the past couple of years represents all the young Croppies who lost their lives in the Rebellion of 1798.

‘We will never know who is buried here,’ Wexford historian Michael Fortune told the large crowd gathered for the now annual commemoration, ‘but it represents every mother’s son who lost their life in the cause of Irish freedom, many of them incarcerated in the nearby Geneva Barracks before being tortured to death or transported to Van Dieman’s Land, as it was then known.’

Michael went on to relate the story of the hundreds of young Croppies who were conscripted straight into the Prussian army from Geneva Barracks, this as a payback by the British to the Prussians for the part the Hessians played in stamping out the Rising in Ireland.

Michael read several accounts of the men he had come across in his research before calling on Tim Corrigan to sing the Croppy Boy to tremendous applause.

A wreath was then laid on the Croppy’s grave by Mayor of Waterford Seamus Ryan along with a bouquet of flowers by Margaret O’Neill after which the Pikemen of Ballybough, County Dublin, made a special presentation to the Wexford Pikemen.

Ballybough in Dublin was the last stand of the Wexford Pikemen.

Niall Wall and his men gave a rousing rendition of Boolavogue and the National Anthem played by the New Ross pipe band brought the moving ceremony to a conclusion.

Prior to the commencement of the commemoration, the Pikemen who marched from the ferry to the graveyard stopped off at Crooke Church and laid a wreath inside the gate at a tree planted in 1998 with handfuls of earth from all thirty-two counties of Ireland and from our ‘other island’ Newfoundland.

After the ceremony the Pikemen went on to lay a wreath at Geneva Barracks.

Joanne Dunne Glasman and her husband from Newfoundland were delighted to be part of the unique re-enactment. n

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Slaney Slaney environmenT aD

Turret Rocks to get CCTV? Wexford County Council is undertaking a public consultation on the provision of CCTV cameras and is implementing the installation of CCTV for the prevention of litter and illegal dumping at six sites.

The CCTV cameras are for the sole purpose of preventing litter and illegal dumping and the enforcement of the Litter Pollution Act, 1997, and the Waste Management Act 1996. This initiative will adhere to the Codes of Practice for the Operation of CCTV for the Purposes of Prevention, Detection and Prosecution of Litter and Waste Offences in compliance with the Circular Economy and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2022 and the Data Protection Act 2018.

Your feedback is important to this process, and Wexford Co. Council is looking forward to hearing from you. All submissions will be considered before CCTV cameras are finalised.

Wexford Council hereby invites any interested parties to make submissions or observations regarding the proposed installation and use of CCTV cameras at the six locations, either electronically via the website or in writing to the Environment Department. https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie In respect of making a submission or observation please note the following: Wexford County Council is subject to the provisions of the Data Protection Act (as amended) and General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). To assist them in complying with Data Protection and GDPR please include your name and contact details (and where relevant, details of any organisation, community group or company etc., which you represent), on a separate sheet to the content of your submission/ observation. This processing of your personal data is lawful under Article 6 (1)(e) of the GDPR regulations. The Environment Data Protection Policy is available on the Council website.

Submissions or observations may be made either:

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(a) In writing to: Environment Department, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford (Correspondence to be marked ‘Implementation of CCTV Cameras’).

Or (b) In electronic format on the dedicated website at https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie Please make your submission by one medium only i.e. in hard copy or via the website. n

Calling all community groups, voluntary groups and club treasurers 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

Slaney environmenT

Hosepipe ban ends Uisce Éireann confirmed last month that the Water Conservation Order (WCO), commonly referred to as a hosepipe ban, for Co. Wexford lapsed on 16 September 2025.

Uisce Éireann is encouraging the public in County Wexford to continue conserving water as we move into the Autumn months. We would like to sincerely thank the people of Wexford for their strong support and cooperation throughout the summer. The community’s efforts to reduce water usage and report leaks have been instrumental in protecting local supplies during a period of unprecedented pressure.

However, while restrictions may be lifted, Uisce Éireann is urging everyone to remain vigilant and continue using water wisely.

Leave the hose in the shed: Drop the hose and use a rose head watering can water your plants instead of a hose or sprinkler.

Running a hose for just one hour uses as much water as a family would typically need in an entire day.

Several supplies across the county remain in drought, including Ballyhogue, Gorey (Rural) and Fardystown, while both the South Regional and Gorey (Urban) remain in potential drought status.

Bucket and sponge for your Fionnuala Callery, Regional Technical car: Using a Operations Manager at Uisce Éireann. bucket and sponge to wash your car can save hundreds of litres of water compared to using a hose or power washer.

“We’re extremely grateful to the people of Wexford for their efforts to conserve water over the summer,” said Fionnuala Callery, Regional Technical Operations Manager at Uisce Éireann.

For more information on water conservation and to access our Water Conservation Calculator, visit https://www.water.ie/calculator n

“Now that the hosepipe ban is lifted, it’s more important than ever that we don’t lose momentum. Many supplies across the county remain under pressure, and while the weather is changing, it will take time for our sources to fully recover. In fact, well levels in several areas have shown no signs of improvement.

“We’re doing everything we can to protect and maintain water supplies, but we also need the public’s continued support. Even small changes in how we use water can make a big difference.”

Below are some easy water-saving tips: Turn off the tap: Brushing your teeth with the tap running wastes up to six litres of water per minute. Turning it off while brushing can reduce that to just one litre.

Switch to a shower: Showers use about half the amount of water as baths. Invest in water saving appliances such as water efficient taps and shower heads.

Shorter showers: With the average shower using seven litres of water per minute by turning your five-minute shower into four minutes, you could save up to seven litres of water per day!

Fully load your appliances: Always ensure your dishwasher and washing machine are fully loaded before use. A typical washing machine uses approximately 65 litres of water, and a dishwasher uses around 20 litres per cycle. By ensuring they are fully loaded, not only will you conserve water, but you will also reduce your energy bills.

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Slaney Slaney environmenT aD

Cleaning up the Slaney

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns says ‘thank you’ to the amazing volunteers who helped clean up the river Slaney on 28th September. In glorious sunshine, over 20 volunteers from Tidy Towns, Edermine Ferry Rowing Club, Sustainable Enniscorthy and GoPaddle.ie worked extremely hard for 2 hours.

The results? 23 bags of rubbish, 2 tyres, 1 swinging chair, 3 barrels, 2 crates, 1 child car seat, 60 glass bottles and 20 cans (recycled).

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The group says that CTV is badly needed at dumping spots like Edermine where there is blatant dumping over the bridge and into the river.

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns also says thank you to the Local Authority Waters Programme for grant funding the clean-up, Edermine Ferry Rowing club for the support with two boats and a big crew, and Wexford Co. Council for collecting all the rubbish. n

Slaney environmenT

These six ‘R’s can save our planet!

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

Kieran Harahill

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

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

Dog waste – 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

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695 volunteers in Co. Wexford remove an estimated 4.1 tonnes of beach litter

Tomhaggard Clean Coasts.

Nearly 11,000 volunteers lightened the load of marine litter during the Big Beach Clean weekend last month with over 520 clean-ups organised by Clean Coasts Groups and individuals nationwide. An estimated 60 tonnes of marine litter was removed from Ireland’s coastline. That’s the equivalent of approximately 9 elephants!!!

The Big Beach Clean 2025 illustrated the incredible efforts and commitment of volunteers across Ireland in caring for our marine environment. Once again kindly supported by Kia Ireland, who provided clean-ups kits and supplies to the thousands of volunteers throughout the country who registered their clean-ups.

In Co. Wexford, 695 volunteers from over 40 groups removed an estimated 4.1 tonnes of marine litter with clean-ups taking place in various locations across the county on the coast and inland along the river Slaney.

Among them, seven volunteers from Gorey Tidy Towns headed to Old Bawn beach gathering a variety of litter including glass bottles, silver foil bbqs, plastic bottles,

Gorey Tidy Towns.

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nappies, dog poo bags, and more.

Courtown Community Council were joined

by Gorey Scouts at Kiltennel Bay Beach gathering multiple bags of litter. Tomhaggard Clean Coasts found Ballyhealy Beach was very clean but the group still managed to remove 30kg of waste.

Wexford Sub Aqua Club did a snorkel underwater upclean of Carigfoyle Lake as part of the Big Beach Clean. The group recovered plastic fishing boxes, inflatable toys, bottles, cans, and more.

Clean Coasts’ Big Beach Clean is an annual call to action that runs as part of the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC), operated internationally by Ocean Conservancy. Each year Big Beach Clean volunteers are invited to take part in this worldwide citizen science project. By recoding quantities and categories of litter found and filling in Clean Coasts’ Marine Litter Data Cards to share with Ocean Conservancy this initiative not only helps to keep litter out of our waterways but also helps to inform policies and actions surrounding litter through citizen science data collection.

In 2024, the top three items recorded dur-

Courtown Community Council and Gorey Scouts.

ing the Big Beach Clean weekend were fishing related waste, cigarette butts and plastic pieces. The 2025 Irish Businesses Against Litter (IBAL) marine litter report indicated a 50% increase in the number of beaches and inland waterways achieving a ‘clean’ rating.

The report credits this significant improvement to the dedicated work of Clean Coasts groups and local volunteers. The 2025 survey also identified cigarette butts, sweet wrappers, and fast-food packaging as the most frequently encountered litter items across surveyed areas.

Bronagh Moore, An Taisce, Clean Coasts Programme Manager said: “Recent surveys show that our beaches are becoming cleaner and that’s in no small part down to the dedicated volunteers who clean our beaches, waterways, towns and villages throughout the year. Together we are making a tangible difference in keeping our beaches clean and in protecting our marine life. We thank each and every one of them for their contribution as well as the local councils that support them. We would encourage everyone to stay involved and keep active in their local Clean Coasts Group and in their communities.” n

Wexford Sub Aqua.