Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on 1st November 2025, to mark their gold medal success in this year’s national Tidy Towns awards.
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Welcome to the November issue of the Slaney News.
One of the most dedicated volunteer-based groups in Co. Wexford is the Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group. It has taken the town from a bronze medal position to achieving gold status in each of the last two years. And this year it even went a step further with a regional ‘Young Persons’ award. Enniscorthy placed third in the county behind Blackwater (1st) and Wexford Town (2nd) – congratulations to both of those also.
The Enniscorthy 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 (0872403310) and we’ll put you in contact with this amazing group.
The Switch-on of the Christmas Lights in Enniscorthy will take place on Friday 28th November starting at 5.30pm. Keep an eye on the Slaney News Facebook page for more details and updates.
Tickets are now on sale for the always popular Santa’s Enchanted Christmas at The National 1798 Rebellion Centre. The event will run there from Saturday 29th November to Saturday 23rd December. Tickets here: https://santasenchantedchristmas.ie/booking-online-2/
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 over 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.
We pride ourselves on using the freshest local ingredients from Wexford’s leading food producers – from farm to fork! BOOKING NOW FOR CHRISTMAS LUNCHES
SLANEY NEWS
Barbara-Anne Murphy COUNCILLOR
Enniscorthy Technology Park
Originating in the early sixties in the City of Bradford, England, school friends Ron Kelly, Chris Norman, Alan Silson, and Terry Uttley formed their first line up; years on after several name changes and recording contracts the name “Smokie” was decided upon. This signaled a period of worldwide success for the band (with Pete Spencer replacing Ron Kelly on drums) whose records have sold today in excess of 30 million. In 1986 the band played their final concert and Chris Norman embarked on his successful solo career: This paved the way for a new look “Smokie” featuring two original members. They were joined by Dean’s father, lead singer Alan Barton. Alan’s voice, energy and drive for success re-established the name of “Smokie” as a worldwide touring and recording band. Sadly, tragedy struck in March 1995 with the death of Alan Barton who sustained fatal injuries following a motorway accident in Cologne (Köln), Germany.
1996 brought the third re-incarnation of “Smokie” with remaining original member Terry Uttley. Alan Silson had departed to later form his own band with “Spirit of Smokie” members, including fellow original Ron Kelly, Andy Whelan and Graham Kearns.
In March 2008 a memorial concert was held for Alan Barton, fronted by his son Dean Barton, and “Spirit of Smokie” was born. Dean’s undeniable “Smokie” voice and on stage charisma completed what is now an established world class band. Like his father before him he added “je ne sais quoi” and was “the icing on the cake”, complementing the excellent present day musicians.
Spirit of Smokie, Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, 9th November 2025, doors open 8pm, show starts 9pm, tickets €28 from hotel reception or on eventbrite plus booking fee.
IMAGIN
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GAMES ROOM FOR OLDER siblings
★ Proudly serving the people of Enniscorthy for the last 34 years.
★ Delicious, generous-size portions of traditional, homecooked food, with daily specials, vegetarian options, and homemade desserts.
★ Friendly and attentive service.
★ Child-friendly, catering for kids of all ages.
★ Tasty takeaway dinners for those who like to dine at home.
The Abbey Restaurant, Abbey Centre, Enniscorthy. Open Monday to Saturday 9am - 5.30pm. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557243484057
Bega Barber Gift Vouchers
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Priority given to eco-friendly, innovative businesses that create and sustain local jobs
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Finishing Touches
WOW! To celebrate 15 years of service to our lovely clients we are giving away the ultimate luxury facial!
One and a half hours of absolute heaven!
Leaves your skin with a major glow up and the perfect base for make-up application.
A combination of dermaplaning and microdermabrasion includes cocunut melt hand and arm massage, facial massage, and light therapy to finish.
To enter our amazing competition simply go to the ‘Slaney News’ Facebook page, and Like and Share the post there for this competition. The winner will be picked at random at 5pm on 14th November 2025. Best of luck! Celebrating 15
Essential reading:
The College & Career Companion
by career guidance experts Seamus Whitney & Mary Hickey
St.Mary’s C.B.S.
enni SC orthy
Available to buy at Easons and Evolv, Castle Hill, Enniscorthy. Also online at Amazon.ie. For School orders please contact Seamus on 087 2930 510.
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.
Santa’s Enchanted Christmas returns to Enniscorthy 2025!
A Magical Family Experience awaits at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, Parnell Road, Enniscorthy, from 29 November – 23 December 2025. Tickets: From €15. Pre-book at www.santasenchantedchristmas.ie
Step into the Magic:
Experience the wonder of Santa’s Enchanted Christmas – an immersive festive adventure bringing sparkle, story, and spirit to Enniscorthy this holiday season! Families can journey through twinkling lights, meet Santa and his elves, and enjoy an experience designed to make Christmas memories that last forever.
What’s Included:
❄ A magical walkthrough filled with festive scenes and sparkling lights –Meet Santa in his grotto – each child receives a special gift.
❄ Sensory & Infant Tours – a quieter, shorter experience.
❄ Santa Paws events for pet-friendly festive fun.
❄ Cafe 98 on-site for hot chocolate, snacks and Christmas treats.
❄ Free parking and plenty of photo opportunities!
Ticket Information:
Adult: €15.00
Child (3–15): €24.00
Infant (0–2): €15.00
Sensory/Infant Tours: Adults & Infants €15.00
All tickets must be pre-purchased online at santasenchantedchristmas.ie
Why Go:
Whether it’s your first visit or a returning family tradition, Santa’s Enchanted
Christmas offers a festive mix of imagination, community and warmth – all set in the heart of Enniscorthy. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the joy of Christmas with loved ones.
Enniscorthy businesswoman expands ‘SD Beauty by Shauna’ by adding new Training Academy and Japanese Head Spa
salon owner Shauna Donegan is proud to announce the expansion of her successful business, SD Beauty, on Wafer Street, with the recent opening in an almost adjoining premises of SD Beauty Training Academy and a luxurious Japanese Head Spa.
Shauna’s new professional training space is dedicated to helping others build their careers in the beauty industry.
The Japanese Head Spa is a relaxing, results-driven treatment designed to improve scalp health, encourage hair growth, and provide complete relaxation through traditional Japanese techniques.
Speaking about the launch of her two new ventures, Shauna said: “Opening the training academy and introducing the Japanese Head Spa are such exciting milestones for SD Beauty. My goal has always been to create a space where clients can feel their best and where future beauty professionals can learn, grow, and thrive.”
The new SD Beauty Training Academy and Japanese Head Spa are now open on Wafer Street in the heart of Enniscorthy, welcoming both students and clients.
Visit sdbeautybyshaunaenniscorthy on social media to find out more about Shauna’s flourishing beauty businesses on Wafer Street, and check out the new website: www.sdbeautybyshauna.com ■
The SD Beauty Training Academy offers fully accredited courses in brows, lashes, makeup, nails, and spray tan providing students with the skills, confidence, and qualifications to succeed in the growing beauty sector.
Keep an eye out for teens courses and workshops running over school mid-term breaks.
Meet Shauna – the face
behind
SD Beauty Salon & Training Academy
❝ My passion for the beauty industry has always gone beyond treatments – it’s about helping others grow, build confidence, and turn their passion into a career they love. With years of experience in lashes, brows, spray tanning, nails, and makeup, I’ve had the privilege of not only creating beautiful transformations in my salon but also training and supporting countless students on their journey to becoming confident, skilled, and successful beauty professionals.
At SD Beauty by Shauna, we provide a welcoming and professional space for clients to relax and feel their best, while at SD Beauty Training Academy, I’ve built a place where creativity, professionalism, and high-quality training come together – because every client deserves to feel amazing, and every student deserves to shine.❞ ■
Japanese Head Spa
Japanese Head Spa – a relaxing, results-driven treatment designed to improve scalp health, encourage hair growth, and provide complete relaxation through traditional Japanese techniques.
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. The Activity Garden project was supported by Wexford County Council, the HSE, Creative Ireland, the Irish Architectural Foundation, and the Enniscorthy Men’s Shed. This green space is now a vibrant community hub that is safe, accessible and welcoming to all. In recent weeks, a new walking route around St. John’s Community Hospital campus has been officially opened.
ENNISCORTHY TOWN CENTRE REGENERATION PROJECT
The Part 8 process for the Market Square project was concluded on 9th September 2024, with the Council approving the scheme with amendments to address matters raised during the public consultation process.
Design work on the Enniscorthy Castle Quarter project is ongoing including a permanent exhibition area to allow the display of artefacts donated by local families to the old museum at the Castle, and the installation of public toilet facilities. The purchase of the old Castle Ballroom is complete. Appointments have now been made for both Project Archaeology and Conservation Engineering services. It is planned to make a submission for consent via the Part 8 process in November 2025.
Regarding the Templeshannon element of the Town Centre First Plan, WCC prepared a concept mainly for the swimming pool site and presented it at the April meeting of EMD. The new WCC Senior Executive Architect, Emma Hickey, is now managing this project. Preparation to commence the procurement process for a design team to bring this project forward is ongoing. WCC expects to advertise tenders for this around now.
The above three 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 later this month.
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 be complete by next summer. 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 has been forthcoming to date.
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 devel-
opment of the site on a commercial basis; and it will be placed on the 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 and 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.
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.
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.
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 are being put in place at the top of Wafer Street, Enniscorthy.
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. The tender for the main works contract is due to be advertised around now.
ENNISCORTHY TECHNOLOGY PARK – IDA ADVANCE FACTORY
The Technical Consultancy Services Contract has been awarded for an architect-led design team to prepare a planning application for a proposed advance factory building in Enniscorthy Technology Park. Site investigations are complete, and design work is ongoing. It is anticipated the planning application will be lodged in January 2026. ■
Greyhound racing every Monday and Thursday in Enniscorthy
Greyhound Racing in Enniscorthy is now on every Thursday in November.
Enjoy the fun and the craic at Enniscorthy Track.
Group rates available.
Cafe, bar, shop, hot food available, outdoor and indoor seating.
Contact the office for more details: 053 923 3172 / Tel: 087 4893859.
Follow on social media for updates. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthygreyhound.track
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Local Credit Union extends hours
Enniscorthy Credit Union is pleased to announce that its Murrintown Office is now open two days per week, increasing from its previous one-day schedule.
This change reflects the Credit Union’s ongoing commitment to serving the needs of its members and improving access to financial services in the community.
New Opening Hours:
Fri: 10:00am – 5:00pm* Sat: 9:00am – 4:00pm*
Closed Mon to Thurs.
*Closed for lunch from 1pm – 2pm.
Welcoming the news, the Manager of
Enniscorthy Credit Union, Liz Cullen said: “We’ve listened to our members in Murrintown and the surrounding areas, and we're delighted to now offer more ac-
cess to our services closer to home. Our goal is to always support our members. The extended hours will be in place initially for 3 months and we look forward to seeing all who come into the office."
Enniscorthy Credit Union encourages local organisations, community groups, businesses, and individuals to share this positive news. With extended hours, members can now enjoy even greater flexibility when managing their finances locally.
For more information, visit www.enniscorthycu.ie or follow online on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn pages. ■
A tribute to Seán Óg
Words & pics by Maria Nolan
I’m feeling so honoured to have been part of an amazing tribute to the wonderful Mr Enniscorthy himself Seán Óg Doyle by the Enniscorthy branch of Comhaltas at the Seamus Rafter Suite in the Riverside Park Hotel, to acknowledge and applaud his major contribution to the success and global acclaim of our Irish music, storytelling and song.
The event, MC’d by Seamus Coleman, included speakers Barbara-Anne Murphy, Chair of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Michael Murphy, Chair of the Enniscorthy Comhaltas Branch, Sharon Ni Cuilinn, Chair of Wexford County Board CCÉ, with special guest Labhrás Ó Murchú, Ardstiúrthóir of CCÉ introduced by Judy Heffernan.
The large gathering was treated to world class entertainment with magical performances.
And of course the man himself spoke eloquently as always as he meticulously recounted the history of CCÉ in Enniscorthy and in general from its inception in Mullingar in 1951. Sean thanked everyone who had anything to do with the night’s proceedings and was delighted to have an air penned and played in his honour – the Sean Óg Reel.
A most amazing man and a truly magnificent tribute to him and to his life of love, commitment and dedication to all things Irish – its language, its music, its songs, its history, its hurling and its people – a life of service to his own. ■
A recent event was held in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, to mark the outstanding lifelong service by Seán Óg Doyle to Enniscorthy Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann (CCÉ). Above left: Labhrás Ó Murchú, Ardstiúrthóir of CCÉ, Seán Óg Doyle, Peg Doyle. Above centre: Kathleen Codd-Nolan and Seán Óg Doyle. Above right: Paddy Berry with Seán Óg Doyle.
Above left: Seán Óg Doyle with Cllr John O’Rourke. Above centre: Labhrás Ó Murchú, Ardstiúrthóir of CCÉ with Tim Corrigan. Above right: Niall Wall, Áine Doyle, Paddy Berry.
Journalist Seán Whelan’s ‘Love Letter’ to his native Enniscorthy
Seán Whelan, an iconic and hugely popular journalist with the Echo Group Newspapers for almost half a century, has achieved his dream of writing a trilogy. He was 44 years as a staff journalist with The Echo and five years as a freelance to the newspaper.
Now that he has achieved his writing of The Lost and the Loved, subtitled A ramble through time, Enniscorthy 1960s to 2025, ‘a trilogy’, which he calls ‘a Love Letter to my hometown of Enniscorthy’, and ‘a ramble through time in my memory’, is for him a triumph.
It is, he says, ‘probably my last book’. ‘There’s a lot of humanity running through the pages, and it’s a little quirky,’ he said.
Seán Whelan’s two previously published books were: Just a Memory / Wexford GAA Memories 1884-1984 (1984) and The Ghosts of Bygone Days / An Enniscorthy GAA History (1998). Both are out of print.
Helen Ashdown, author and former chief sub-editor of The Echo, will launch the book at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, on Friday 14 November at 7.00pm. Helen’s own acclaimed book, The Last Surrender, is about the 1916 Rising in Enniscorthy. The rebels were headquartered in the Athenaeum.
Seán has, he said, ‘had a mania for photographs’ all his life. In 1963, when he was a teenager growing up in Saint Aidan’s Villas, Enniscorthy, he went to Redmond Square, Wexford, where on his camera he snapped a shaky, fuzzy picture of the visit to Wexford of the hugely popular President of the USA, John Fitzgerald Kennedy. The photograph is in the book.
Seán was born in 1947, in what was ‘the year of the big snow’. After a spell with an export/import company in Dublin, he worked in England. He returned to Ireland to take up the position of reporter under the watchful gaze of the journalism legend Tomás Ó Duinn, the editor, a Gaeilgeoir like Seán himself.
In Wexford, covering the courts, election counts, All-Irelands, and numerous other
stories, such was his fluency in the skill of stenography that he became known as ‘the only one on earth who could speak in Pitman Shorthand!’
The book, The Lost and the Loved, by Seán Whelan is A4 size and in 60 pages contains about 250 colour photographs of people and places in urban Enniscorthy. It’s all about the faces, places, legends, and memories of the town.
It was printed by another Enniscorthy man, Joe Hogan, ‘a most kind and generous man’ of Impression Print, Wexford, and will be in good bookshops in the county from 14 November.
– M.F.
Remembrance ceremony and candle
Cllr John O’Rourke (pictured) has been in touch to remind everybody that Beneath My Angels Wings will be holding its annual Remembrance Ceremony on the 9th of November at 7pm in St Mary’s Church.
This year it will be launching a new Christmas Candle on the night and it will be on sale in the run-up to Christmas. A contribution of €5 per candle is being sought with all money raised by this venture going towards sending children from the Martina Leacy dancing school to Disneyland in 2026. ■
Sean Whelan’s new book will be launched in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, on Friday 14 November at 7pm.
Sean Whelan
At the lathe in the Men’s Shed section were: Leo Harpur, Ray Doyle, Helena Dempsey of Wexford Local Development and Jim Fortune.
Jim Fortune is former flight sergeant with the Irish Air Corps, Baldonnel and a former member of the Irish Aviation Authority. Ray Doyle is former chief news editor of the Irish Independent and Evening Herald and former managing director of the People Newspapers Group.
Jim Fortune shows off an award-winning map of Ireland, created in wood by the Rosslare Men’s Sheds to commemorate the transmission by Guglielmo Marconi of the world’s first wireless messages, which were sent in 1901 from Cornwall in Wales to Newfoundland, Canada, via transmission stations at Clifden in Galway and Rosslare Strand, Co. Wexford.
Came to see Rosslare’s new Men’s and Women’s Shed
Sheds leaders from all over County Wexford came to see the new state of the art Men’s and Women’s Shed premises at Rosslare Sports and Recreation Centre, in Rosslare Strand.
The sheds there are to be officially opened shortly.
The Sheds’ leaders were hosted on their visit by Maria Gore, manager of the Rosslare Community and Sports Centre and guided by Helena Dempsey of Wexford Local Development (WLD), their supporters.
Maria Gore, together with Jim Fortune of the Rosslare Men’s and Women’s
Sheds, addressed them.
The Sheds, founded in Australia and now numbering more than 430 in Ireland, offer men an opportunity to meet in a supportive, collaborative space, improve their health and wellbeing, and contribute to their communities.
– M.F.
Maria Gore addresses the Men’s Shed and Women’s Shed delegation at the Rosslare Strand shed.
Shed leaders looking at the new Men’s and Women’s Sheds premises at Rosslare Strand.
National community award for Enniscorthy Credit Union
Enniscorthy Credit Union is proud to have just won the All Ireland Credit Union Community Award which, it believes, belongs to the entire community. The award recognises the partnership with the local community and how a Credit Union can help to raise awareness for community-driven charities. It acknowledges Enniscorty Credit Union’s work throughout the years with Hope Cancer Support Centre CLG, a cause that is very close to the hearts of all in Enniscorthy Credit Union, and a relationship which it is hoped will continue long into the future. ■
BEST WISHES TO FR BILLY SWAN AS ROME COMES CALLING
The Holy See, through the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Clergy, has requested Bishop of Ferns Ger Nash to release Fr Billy Swan for service in that dicastery for a period of five years. A dicastery is a department or ministry within the Roman Curia of the Catholic Church, which helps the Pope govern the global Church. The Dicastery for the Clergy deals with all matters relating to priests and deacons of the diocesan clergy, with regard to their persons and pastoral ministry, and everything needed for the fruitful exercise of the latter. In these matters, it provides suitable assistance to the Bishops. Bishop Ger has agreed to this request and Fr Billy has agreed to serve the mission of the Universal Church and to be at the service of the Holy Father.
On behalf of all his colleagues and the people of Wexford Town and the Diocese of Ferns, Bishop Ger thanks him for his work over the past years in many different roles and wishes him every success in the new and important role he takes up. "We look forward to having him back with us again when his time of service to the Universal Church is completed." ■
Community network for climate justice
Wexford Local Development (WLD) would like to invite everyone to join them for the Wexford Community Network for Climate Justice workshop on Tuesday, November 4th, from 7:009.00pm in Greentech HQ, Enniscorthy.
This free workshop is an opportunity to network with groups and organisations who are taking practical actions for a fairer, greener Co. Wexford, to share ideas, resources and plans.
WLD also wants to listen to how Community Work, through SICAP, can support active hope and community planning for 2026 and beyond.
WLD is using the term ‘Climate Justice’ rather than ‘Climate Action’ to highlight how inequality is both a root cause and a consequence of climate change. Often, solutions to the climate crisis further disadvantage people who are already struggling – for example, applying carbon taxes can harm rather than help poorer communities. Climate justice moves the focus away from individual, consumer-based solutions (for example –‘buy organic food’ or ‘buy an electric vehicle’) to explore deeper societal changes needed.
WLD will be holding a free draw on the night where one local community facility will win a Hotbin composter.
Everyone is welcome to join the conversation. Registration: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/community-network-for-climate-justice-wexford-tickets-1796946388019 ■
Reach Ability’s mosaic project
This summer, Reach Ability in Enniscorthy was alive with colour, creativity, and community spirit thanks to the wonderful Mosaic Project guided by the gifted Helen McClean.
On Monday 29th September, this vibrant project was officially opened by Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District. All are invited to visit the Dill & Pickle restaurant at Reach Ability to see these mosaics for yourself.
The official launch of the new Wexford Local Community Safety Partnership took place on 30th September 2025.
This partnership will build on the good work of our Joint Policing Committees with a much broader representation from communities, voluntary bodies, and statutory agencies, working together to enhance community safety throughout the county.
The partnership will be managed and administered by Wexford County Council and will report to the National Office for Community Safety, Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.
Wexford is the first county to hold a partnership meeting which will now begin the work of developing a three-year Local Community Safety Plan for the County. ■
Above right: Cllr Barabara-Anne Murphy officially opened the exhibition,Trevor Jacob (Reach Ability), Helen Leon (artist) and Yvonne O’Connor (WWETB).
Front row:
Above left: Margaret Reddy, Elma White (WWETB) and Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
Enniscorthy Community College Open Evening
A very successful Open Evening was held in Enniscorthy Community College (ECC) on 7th October 2025 giving prospective students a wonderful opportunity to discover the school’s facilities, meet the teachers, and learn about the academic, sporting and creative programmes there. Enniscorthy Community College says a big thank you to all who attended –the reaction across the board was positive, with prospective students and parents/guardians very impressed with all ECC has to offer. And the school also thanks the teachers and staff who made the night possible, and not forgetting the current students who gave up their night to showcase the school.
Photos courtesy of Mr Rochford. ■
Back-to-back gold for Ennisco
Enniscorthy is celebrating back-to-back gold following the National Tidy Towns awards held in Croke Park on Friday, 24th October, 2025. The group successfully retained its gold medal and went a step further with a regional ‘Young Persons’ award for 2025. Enniscorthy placed third in the county behind Blackwater (1st) and Wexford Town (2nd) –congratulations to both those groups. Ballindaggin had an excellent year, jumping over 20 points in this year’s competition and picking up an endeavour award in the process.
Carrick-on-Shannon in Leitrim was crowned the overall winners for 2025. Indeed 2025 was a record year for entries in the competition with 929 communities entering. It is estimated over 30,000 people volunteer nationally which is worth approximately €35m to the national economy. The Minister announced an additional €1.5m in funding for groups which was warmly welcomed by all attendees.
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns are not ones to rest on their laurels. Following their gold medal success in the National Tidy Towns awards, volunteers were out in force planting native trees and picking litter.
Enniscorthy’s gold medal and a regional award would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers, Enniscorthy Municipal District, Community Employment Scheme workers, young persons, community groups, businesses, schools, Wexford County Council and members of the public.
Speaking on this significant achievement, Jonathon Hughes, Chairperson for the group, said:
“Our continued hard work has paid off again this year. Holding onto gold was our main goal, winning a regional young persons award is the icing on the cake. These awards are dedicated to all the people who have helped Enniscorthy Tidy Towns this year and down through the years – a special mention to Seán Óg Doyle our treasurer who continues to volunteer his time into his nineties. We want to thank all our volunteers, Enniscorthy Municipal District, Community Employment Scheme workers, and Wexford County Council for helping us make Enniscorthy a cleaner and greener town.
Special thanks to our young volunteers, Sustainable Enniscorthy, Enniscorthy Community Allotments which received glowing praise, Enniscorthy Community Alliance, Creative Places Enniscorthy and all other community groups, businesses and members of the public and elected representatives for their assistance throughout the year. We would also like to thank Slaney News for the continued coverage and support.”
The focus for Enniscorthy Tidy Towns now shifts to building the momentum, growing volunteer numbers, and improving the town’s score in next year’s awards.
The Tidy Towns adjudicator visited Enniscorthy in July, a month later than normal and their report is available on the
Tidy Towns website. Enniscorthy’s overall marks increased by 15 points to 386 points, compared to 371 points in 2024. This left Enniscorthy within 14 points of overall winners Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim, who scored a very impressive 400 points.
Whilst overall positive, the adjudicator’s report raised concerns about the predominance of cars in the town centre, speeding cars, continued herbicide use, invasive Himalayan Balsam, weeds and graffiti – a focus on approach roads promoting the town’s brand was also raised. Disappointingly, the adjudicator also highlighted continued dog fouling which was blighting Vinegar Hill and footpaths throughout the town. Dog fouling is a continued source of frustration for the tidy towns group. Wexford County Council issued zero dog-fouling fines two years in a row and this lack of enforcement is no doubt contributing to this problem according to Mr. Hughes.
“Owning a dog comes with responsibilities, unfortunately some residents of the town simply do not care about where they live. We have a volunteer who uses a wheelchair who has to dodge dog dirt on a regular basis, it is disgusting especially when it gets on wheels, shoes and walking sticks. The time for talking and raising awareness is over – we need to see council patrols, enforcement and on-the-spot dog-fouling fines being handed out. Shame on the people who refuse to pick up after their dog.”
The group were particularly pleased with improvements in the ‘Streetscapes’, and ‘Litter’ categories with the adjudicator praising the town’s litter management initiatives and commenting on how they were pleased to find Enniscorthy very clean and tidy on the date of the visit. All categories improved by 2 points in 2025 (bar one category) which pleased the group immensely.
orthy Tidy Towns
The group placed an added emphasis on engagement with younger persons in 2024-2025 and this has paid dividends –with a regional ‘Young Persons Award’. A special word of thanks is due to the young people of Enniscorthy who help make a positive impact in their community.
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns are not ones to rest on their laurels, volunteers were out in force after the awards – planting native trees and picking litter. The group would really appreciate more support from members of the public – so if you have 1-2 hours spare a month please help. The group meets every Sunday at 10am at the Island Road carpark. Please contact the group via Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com if you are interested in getting involved to make Enniscorthy a cleaner and greener town to visit, work and live in.
On 1st November, the Riverside Park Hotel hosted the group for an appreciation lunch, and the group would like to thank the Riverside and all businesses who have supported and sponsored their activities in the past year, in particular Pettitt’s who are part of SuperValu – the National Tidy Towns sponsors. ■
The Ballindaggin Tidy Towns group is delighted to have have been awarded an Endeavour award in this year's national Tidy Towns competition, this is the award given to the group in each county which showed the biggest improvement from the previous year (in Ballindaggin’s case up a massive 25 points), and is the second year in a row that it has been won by Ballindaggin.
Well done to all in the village who continue give up their time on a weekly basis, and all who donate to and sponsor the group, and especially the community for supporting the group so well during the year. ■
Help is always welcome!
Would you like to be part of a friendly team that has succeeded in transforming Enniscorthy into gold medal winners in the national Tidy Towns competition in the space of just a few short years?
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns is always looking for more help. And we are not just about litter picking and planting flowers, we are also involved in a huge range of activities in the biodiversity and sustainability fields, and help is needed in those areas as well as in planning and promoting events, advocacy, fundraising, working with other like-minded organisations, etc. And fun is always on our agenda too, with various social events during the year including kayaking, table quizzes, etc.
If you can spare a couple of hours a month to lend a hand in whatever area of Tidy Towns interests you, we would be thrilled to hear from you. Just fill in your contact details clearly below and one of our friendly team will get in touch (and we promise not to be pushy!!!)
Full name: .......................................................................................................
When filled in, just drop this leaflet into the Enniscorthy Municipal District Office in Market Square, Enniscorthy, or take a photo of it and email to: enniscorthytt@gmail.com or post it to Slaney News, Clonhaston, Enniscorthy. Thank you.
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers pictured in the Riverside Park Hotel on 1st November with some of their recent awards.
Jonathon Hughes, above centre, Chairperson of Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, is on the shortlist for the countywide Volunteer of the Year Award. Best of luck Jonathon at the awards ceremony on 8th November. Jonathon is pictured above with fellow Enniscorthy Tidy Towns stalwarts Gia O’Grady and Phil Millar.
Bringing derelict property back into active use
Minister for Housing James Browne
TD is encouraging local authorities to make full use of their powers under the Derelict Sites Act and Housing Act.
Local authorities have strong legal tools under the Derelict Sites Act to CPO properties and these powers should be used when property owners refuse to engage or act.
Figures released last month by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage show that in 2023 local authorities entered 5,027 properties into the CPO Activation Programme, followed by 6,159 properties in 2024.
‘Entry’ refers to the point at which a local authority begins actively working to identify the property's owner and engage with them about bringing the site back into productive use.
Launched in 2023, the CPO Activation Programme supports local authorities in systematically identifying vacant and derelict properties, engaging with owners, and using compulsory purchase powers under the Derelict Sites Act and Housing Act when needed.
The Programme has two major benefits: helping to tackle the housing crisis as well as improving the appearance of urban areas by tackling dereliction.
The total number of properties in Co. Wexford entered into the Programme in 2023 was 91, and this almost doubled to 168 in 2024.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD said: "I have been very clear on this as a matter of priority. Dereliction and vacancy in our provincial towns and city centres is unacceptable, particularly during a housing crisis.
“Through the CPO Activation Programme, we are empowering local authorities to take decisive action and deliver real results.
"The latest data highlights the momentum local authorities have built in returning vacant homes to use and I would like to acknowledge and commend their continued efforts, and want to encourage more of it.
“I would urge local authorities to use the full range of legislative tools including
CPOs where needed to address longterm vacancy. Derelict buildings are a significant challenge but they’re an opportunity for new homes and facilities.”
There are a number of schemes property owners can avail of such as the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and the Repair and Lease scheme. ■
Refurbishment grants
bring 100 homes back into use
Almost €6.5 million in refurbishment grants has returned over 100 vacant and derelict Wexford homes to active use.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD has announced the latest figures which show that in Wexford €6.44m has been disbursed through the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, successfully returning 117 previously vacant or derelict homes to active residential use across the county.
Since the scheme was introduced in July 2022, there have been 525 applications for the scheme from Wexford homeowners with 395 approvals. ■
Bunclody Community College Open Day
“We
Above left: Bunclody Community College Open Day, 5th October 2025, Conor Doyle in the Home Economics Room. Above right: Dr. James Trimble (Principal) and Sandra O’Toole (Vice Principal).
A monthly update from GreenTechHQ
We’re delighted to share about an exciting upcoming event here at GreenTechHQ in Enniscorthy –Ireland’s Business, Sustainability & Innovation Centre of Excellence.
TURNING SUSTAINABILITY INTO BUSINESS ADVANTAGE
The South East Sustainability Cluster, hosted exclusively at GreenTech HQ in Enniscorthy, is the region’s leading platform for sustainability networking and collaboration. Each monthly meetup brings together SMEs, innovators, academics, and local government to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and champion projects that move the South East toward a low-carbon future.
Join us on Thursday, 6th November (6pm – 8pm) at GreenTechHQ, where pizza and refreshments will be provided.
This month’s guest speakers: Dr. Úna Fitzpatrick – Chief Scientific Officer, National Biodiversity Data Centre.
Over 20 years as an ecologist, Úna co-founded the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan in 2015 and continues leading groundbreaking conservation work protecting Ireland's native pollinators and plant biodiversity. The data they collect today protects the nature we'll enjoy tomorrow.
Michael Kelly – Founder, GIY (Grow It Yourself)
Author, TV presenter, and Ashoka Fellow – Michael has championed the grow-it-yourself movement for over 15 years, inspiring a new generation toward food sustainability and selfsufficiency, transforming how communities think about food.
Joanne Somers – Director, Johnsons Celtic Linen
With over 20 years leading one of Ireland's premium linen rental providers, Joanne has positioned Johnsons Celtic Linen at the forefront of sustainable textile management. Delivering over 2 million items weekly while driving down environmental impact – proof that traditional industries can lead the green revolution.
This session explores how to build consumer trust through authentic sustainability messaging that drives measurable business results – perfect for founders and business owners looking to strengthen their environmental positioning in today’s eco-conscious market.
Reserve your spot and be part of shaping the South East’s sustainable future.
Last week we welcomed Dr. Maria Coakley (third from right in accompanying photo) with collaboration from Skillnet Innovation Exchange to our hub. Dr Coakley delivered an informative sales workshop on mastering ‘Closing the Sale’. This session was packed with actionable insights, from understanding why deals fall through, handling objections with confidence and effective closing practices.
Thank you Dr. Maria Coakley for sharing your expertise.
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.
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.
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 six prime hours unserviced 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 has 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.
I know, in the days of yore, a good ole walk home was the only way – but when
Welcome news at Templeshannon Childcare Centre
Templeshannon Childcare Centre (TCC) is now proudly participating in the Bia Blasta food initiative!
As part of this exciting programme, all ECCE children will now have the opportunity to:
Take part in fun, hands-on food preparation activities.
Enjoy a healthy, light lunch each day.
Learn about nutritious choices and the joy of sharing meals together.
This initiative supports TCC’s commitment to encouraging healthy habits, independence, and a positive relationship with food, all in a fun and supportive environment. ■
there are Wexford Bus, Bus Éireann, Irish Rail and Local Link services… then surely an 11-11.30pm service could be put in place. Even just from Wexford to Gorey, or Thurs-Sun.
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
THE KNOWN AND UNKNOWN OF THE HOUSING DEBACLE
The housing issue is a moveable feast albeit slowly. Facts and spin change and adapt during time in order to try and influence public opinion. I am conscious that there is a new housing policy document being prepared and to be announced within the coming months. This announcement is just another moment in time in this neverending story. I am sure this will not be the last announcement on the matter. I have no issue in policies being changed or altered in order to achieve the right result. We already have seen a shift in direction in order to change the narrative. What we have seen are deliberate and calculating steps taken to de-escalate the situation and to take the heat out of the debate. Make no mistake this issue is the biggest that any government has dealt with since the collapse of the economy in 2008.
Firstly, what was needed, for the Government’s sake, was to shift the dial in their favour by establish a fresh start of sorts. With the cabinet reshuffle they took the opportunity to appoint James Browne as the new housing minister to mark a new approach and a new beginning. James came from a junior minister role which showed a certain level of experience but also did not come with any negative baggage from another senior cabinet portfolio. A period of time was created where he did not really engage with the political debate. Instead the time was used to consult with various stakeholders to tease out what they felt were the stumbling blocks for progress. To shift the debate to a neutral zone the Minister announced that the targets were not going to be met. This was a master stroke. This side-stepped the constant barrage of negative comment on that point. In fact, even the junior minister recently refused to reply to questions as to targets and pushed the mantra to the journey of delivery instead. So let me take a little look at that journey and what is known and unknown on that road.
It is known that the seeds of this crisis were sown in 2008. After the economic crash and the change of government, decisions were made which had con-
TOWN TALK
WITH KEITH DOYLE
sequences for years to come. Two of those were slashing funding for roads and housing.
I can confirm that at that time government funding and activity in Wexford were practically non-existent. The County Council had to redeploy housing staff due to no work. A skeleton crew remained in place for years.
This only changed when the housing crisis became a political hot potato. When the department focused on once again funding local authorities with various projects on housing. Councils had to catch up with bolstering appropriate staff levels to cater for this new policy. A raft of initiatives have been introduced to tackle housing at national and local level. This includes projects to bring housing in to use and purchasing houses for council tenants. Nationally we have seen activity in freeing up lands for housing. We have seen concessions on planning and fees for services to contractors to start building. We have seen funding being made available to assist in startups of projects both in the private sector and in public sector. We have seen completion figures of over 24,000 homes in the first nine months of the year. This is
an increase of 13% from last year’s figures to this time of the year. Indicators show it may well be up at year’s end also. What is predicted is we will not reach any government targets or anywhere near the 50,000 to 60,000 needed to eat into the demand. The Minister stated in one of his first interviews that if we fix the Dublin apartment deficit we fix the crisis. There is an increase in apartment builds and starts and extra incentives in this area. It is interesting to note that 38% of the total builds to date are in the commuterbelt of Dublin.
They are the knowns to date. What is one of the crucial unknowns is the consequences of the new legistration coming in March. I have grave concerns as to what I am hearing from the other side of the industry. If you speak to estate agencies they may say it is a busy time of late and it is expected to get even busier in the first and second quarter of next year. This is due to a mass exit from the “accidental landlord” market. They are the people who may well have bought a property to rent. They may have come into funds from a will or a pension. They are preparing to leave the market as they fear for the future. One can even ask accountants –they know their clients are exiting the market. Tenants will tell you they have received notices to quit.
I don’t know the scale of the issue yet but we are about to find out in the spring and summer of 2026. I am told that those properties will be out of action for many months as there will be issues in the process of refitting for resale due to the shortage of workers. I am also told that others will hold onto the properties for family members and those properties will leave the market altogether. There will be a mass of people evicted from their homes at the same time and if there are not sufficient newly built apartments in the market by then it will cause the crisis to get even worse. Watch that space when the mainstream news outlets latch on to it. Perhaps it would be wiser for the department to try and encourage them to stay in the market rather than scaring them out. ■
Elevating young people in Enniscorthy’s schools
In Enniscorthy, through an initiative called Elevate, Wexford Local Develoment (WLD) has been changing the school experience for children and young people, since 2021.
Elevate was inspired by a programme in Dublin called Challenger, developed by Northside Partnership which has been running for over a decade. This SICAPsupported initiative works in collaboration with the schools and local library, helping to foster a role for education outside the school system.
In Enniscorthy, the first group of 25 sixthclass students joined in 2021, and by last year, 75 young people were involved.
Students, who enter the programme in 6th class, engage in personal development and grow in confidence throughout their entire time in secondary school. They accomplish much more than they initially believe possible, and the programme brings many benefits to their local communities.
Check out the video link below from Changing Ireland featuring Elevate and
other projects from fellow local development companies in the Local Development Companies Network – South Tipperary Development Company | STDC and Ballyhoura Development CLG: https://lnkd.in/e3j6tUbs
SICAP is the national social inclusion programme funded by Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht led by Minister Jerry Buttimer and Minister Dara Calleary, and in partnership at local level with Wexford County Council's LCDC. ■
Celebrating Social Enterprise Week
Join Wexford Local Development (WLD) as it celebrates National Social Enterprise Week 2025 with an event that’s set to inspire, inform, and connect!
On Tuesday, 18th November 2025, WLD is officially launching the findings of its Feasibility Study on the social enterprise sector in County Wexford, a first-of-its-kind look at the incredible work happening locally and the huge potential ahead.
Lunch & Networking: 12:30pm at Dill & Pickle restaurant on site.
Presented by Sam Marchetti of ConsortiaCo, the study highlights the current impact of social enterprises in Wexford and outlines exciting opportunities for growth, funding, and strategic development.
This event is perfect for social enterprise
leaders, staff, board members, community champions, and stakeholders who want to:
Understand the landscape
Plan for the future
Connect and collaborate
Booking is essential – email Helena Dempsey hdempsey@wld.ie or call 087 1737502 to reserve your place.
Save the date and spread the word! And be part of a coming together to shape the future of social enterprise in Co. Wexford. ■
Members of Social Enterprises in Co. Wexford on a recent field trip.
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 up to the recent so-called ‘ceasefire’ it held a weekly protest in Redmond Square every Thursday at 6.30pm to 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. And a very successful Art Exhibition and Sale fundraiser in recent weeks.
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. ■
History talk at local library
John Cooney is a poet, writer, and historian who lives in the foothills of the Blackstairs. He is currently undertaking a PhD at NUI Maynooth.
John will be giving a talk in Enniscorthy Library on 27th November. To book your place: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/eve nt/4451820 ■
Congratulations to Trish Robinson and all at Amnesty International Wexford Group on raising €28,000 through their recent art sale to support the people of Gaza.
€20,000 has been donated to Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders (MSF) to support their work at the coalface of the genocide in Gaza.The remaining €10,000 is being donated to Amnesty for their human rights work.
Trish and Ellen from Wexford Amnesty are pictured above donating the €20,000 to MSF.
Trish says, “Thanks to everyone who made our Gift for Gaza such a great success. To all the artists who donated and to all the people who came and supported.” ■
OVER
€142,000
– MONEY RECOVERED FROM CRIMINALS – TO BE INVESTED IN
THE COMMUNITY IN ENNISCORTHY
Last month the government announced an allocation of €4.4 million through the Community Safety Fund to 42 community safety projects nationwide.
The Community Safety Fund redirects proceeds of crime seized by the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) and An Garda
Siochana back into communities. And the great news is that Enniscorthy is to receive over €142,000.
Minister James Browne TD has welcomed the news. “I am pleased to see a significant tranche of funding be allocated to Enniscorthy Community Alliance, who do brilliant work that we want to see continue in the local area. Their project entitled ‘Empowering Voices for Safer Communities’ is critical and has received €142,408.”
Enniscorthy Community Alliance is currently involved in many projects around the town such as The Shannon Way project and the refurbishment of the Captain Wafer Hall.
Minister Browne said: “The Community Safety Fund is an important and effective element in achieving stronger, safer communities. It ensures that the proceeds of crime seized by CAB and An Garda Síochána are re-invested back
into communities to enhance safety and security in those communities. It demonstrates that the efforts of our Gardaí and law enforcement bodies can not only disrupt and seize the proceeds of crime but can directly contribute to building stronger and safer communities.” ■
Local heroes get their just rewards
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers pictured in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on 1st November with some of their recent awards.
A regular series by the team at Enniscorthy East Community Development
Follow on Facebook: ‘Enniscorthy East Community Development’
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 page: https://www.facebook.com/TempleshannonCommunityandChildcareCentre ■
Some of the many activities at Templeshannon Community Centre
Enniscorthy man climbs Kilimanjaro for charity
“Well... I made it!” Those were the words last month of David Connolly, from Enniscorthy, as he thanked everyone who supported him along the way to climbing Kilmanjaro which “was by far the toughest thing l've ever done in my life!”, he said.
The fantastic experience was all the more worthwhile given the huge amount raised for his Active Connections CLG fundraiser. The total amount collected was €7,926 and David says “thanks to all for the unbelievable support”.
Active Connections is a not-for-profit organisation that provides adventure therapy programmes across Ireland. They help young people with behavioural and developmental challenges build confidence, take ownership of their actions, and to grow both personally and socially. ■
€1m funding to advance strategic Rural Regeneration Project at Rosslare
The Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary TD announced on 10th October 2025 funding of over €20.5 million for 30 landmark regeneration projects in rural communities across the country including €1m to develop the Rosslare Sustainable Tourism Experience which aims to develop the inter-connection between Rosslare Harbour and Rosslare Strand, including a new civic and recreation plaza and public realm works in both villages.
Cllr. Ger Carthy, Chair of Rosslare Municipal District expressed his delight on hearing the announcement: ‘I welcome the funding announced by Minister Calleary, it represents a major step forward in realising both Rosslare Strand & Rosslare Harbour’s potential as thriving hubs for tourism and community life. We are investing in Rosslare’s future , creating places where people want to live, visit and do business.’
Photo: Tony Mullen Photography. Aerial view extending from Rosslare Strand to Rosslare Harbour.
Cllr. Ger Carthy, Chair of Rosslare Municipal District
Johnstown Castle ‘soil auger’ is symbol of Ireland’s food production greatness
A Johnstown Castle hand-tool used by agricultural and soil scientists to test soil fertility on farms throughout the country is now the artefact representing Ireland’s quality food production on the world stage.
Ireland’s Minister for Agriculture, Martin Heydon TD, presented the tool he called ‘a soil auger’ but more technically known as ‘a soil sampler’, to the inaugural Food and Agricultural Organisation Museum of the United Nations (UN) during World Food Day in Rome last month. There it joins artefacts representative of food production in 193 countries across the world.
The hearts of Johnstown’s scientists ‘are bursting with pride’ that this invention by the late Pat Hayes, of the technical laboratory staff in the 1960s, in collaboration with his boss Jim Brogan, head of the then Johnstown Castle soil fertility department, is now a symbol of Ireland’s greatness in the world of food production, said Dr Noel Culleton, former chief executive of Johnstown Castle.
In size, the soil sampler is about a metre long. Below the tshaped handle and shaft is a steel cone to collect the soil cores that make up the sample. The cores are made when the sharpened cylindrical tip or nose is pushed into the ground. It collects 20 perfect samples of soil from a field to be sent to a special sample box and then to a laboratory for analysis. The box replaced the use of thousands of paper bags to carry the samples.
This invention enables soil scientists to readily take millions of
soil samples from the top ten centimetres of ground, where all the nutrients and trace elements are, on farms all over Ireland and have them analysed at Johnstown Castle and other laboratories. It ticks all the boxes of contribution to the environment and the economy.
The soil fertility project at Johnstown Castle was first directed by the legendary Dr Tom Walsh, native of Piercestown, and first director of An Foras Talúntais (The Agricultural Institute) in the 1950s.
In more recent times, agronomists David Wall and Mark Plunkett used the samples from the Pat Hayes soil sampler.
Pat Hayes at first went to Pierces foundry, and got the leftover steel that had been used to make shovels there to make the first prototypes of the sampler. His son Michael, a wellknown restaurant entrepreneur in Wexford town, recalls his father’s search for tungsten steel to ensure that the sampler would not be a soil contaminant. Pat and the laboratory head Dr Brian Coulter then worked to ensure that it would allow the measurement of trace elements down to milligrams. They also invented a ring to prevent people from accidentally, or on purpose, driving the sampler below the ten-centimetre mark.
The results of the soil fertility surveys carried out by agricultural advisers together with Johnstown Castle scientists and staff were that all over Ireland, fields flourished, soil fertility rocketed and farmers’ incomes were boosted beyond their wildest expectations. Food production in Ireland increased exponentially through managing the identified weaknesses in
Left:
A soil sampler or auger.
Above:
Soil auger in its case in the UN Museum in Rome.
Right:
The 'soil siever' invented by Pat Hayes.
levels of phosphorous (P), potassium(K), and magnesium and other trace minerals.
Other inventions by Pat Hayes at Johnstown Castle were a ‘soil sieving machine’ used to crush dry soils between rubber rollers and then sieve the sample to particles the size of two millimetres, all in about 15 seconds. This was up to ten times faster than previous machines. He also built a soil drying oven which could dry up to 3,000 soil samples in two days.
In the book Soil Matters – the story of science at Johnstown Castle (Culleton, Coulter and Wheeler), Dr Brian Coulter said
of his colleague Pat Hayes: “He was extraordinarily skilled and innovative and the laboratory benefitted from his inventiveness throughout his whole career. He was a genius at solving many technical challenges which arose in lab and field.”
The soil sampler was selected by Matt Wheeler, General Manager of Johnstown Castle, and the board of the Irish Agricultural Museum, in response to a request by the Department of Agriculture. Willie French of Loughgerald, Enniscorthy, is chairman of the Irish Agricultural Museum which is a major attraction for the millions of visitors to Johnstown Castle. –
Thank you to Dr Noel Culleton, Dr Brian Coulter and Michael Hayes for use of photographs.
Pat Hayes, inventor, in 1958.
Pat Hayes, inventor, in 1996.
Dr Brian Coulter. A soils map of Ireland.
Sustainable Enniscorthy
This month Sustainable Enniscorthy looks at Circular.ie – a new online resource to provide information on circular living.
As regular readers of this column will know, Sustainable Enniscorthy is a big supporter of the circular economy! So we are very excited to share the news that there is a new national online resource to provide information on circular living!
What is circular living? It’s all about creating less waste by reducing, reusing and repairing things, so they last longer instead of being thrown away.
Many people are taking steps towards circular living every day, maybe not even realising it.
Do you do your best to prevent food waste?
Do you donate or sell your preloved clothes and buy pre-loved or swopped clothes too?
Do you try to get your broken products repaired?
Do you bring your reusable cup for your daily coffee fix or your reusable water bottle to training?
If you answer yes to any of the above you are taking circular actions that support the circular economy! Businesses have a really important role to play too, through reducing the packaging they place on the market, offering reusable and refill options over single-use options, and making their products easier to repair in the first place.
But maybe you’d like to find out how you can do more? Circular.ie is designed to make the circular economy easy to understand and act on. It has been developed through government
Sustainable Enniscorthy supporting the circular economy with its regular Repair Cafes (see photo above) and the recent Community Clothes Swap held at the end of October (see photos opposite).
If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or be kept informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
funding by the Rediscovery Centre, National Centre for the Circular Economy, based in Ballymun.
This platform aims to make circularity simple for everyone – describing what it is, what it means for you in your daily life, and practical steps that you can take. The new platform is also showcasing those building circular communities, initiatives, and social enterprises across Ireland. Sustainable Enniscorthy’s repair cafés feature for example as does the Upcycle Movement!
There are Circular Communication Grants available to community groups, voluntary organisations, or small businesses with circularity at their core which are worth checking out, as well as various toolkits and webinars, so keep an eye out for what’s being planned.
The platform also features an events page and Sustainable Enniscorthy will be sure to share information on any of our upcoming events to showcase Enniscorthy as a growing and vibrant ‘circular living’ town. ■
World Mental Health Day at Enniscorthy Castle which was lit up in green for the occasion. L-R: Patrick Hipwell (organiser), Maura Bell (Manager Enniscorthy Castle), Cllr Aidan Browne, Cllr Jackser Owens, Cllr Pat Kehoe (Leas Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District) and Cllr Patrica Byrne.
World Mental Health Day 10th October 2025
A SPOT HERE CAN BE YOURS
Oulart storytelling house
At Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart, a great welcome awaits all, with good music, songs, stories and plenty of craic, tea and refreshments served. Eircode: Y25 YP70.
For details of upcoming events keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/bygonedayshouseofstories ■
Do you need a bright, spacious venue for your next meeting or training session? The Astro Active Centre meeting rooms offer a modern, airy environment with plenty of natural light, ample free parking and convenient location. Get in touch today on 053 923 6678 to find out more.
Enniscorthy Toastmasters
The group meeets fortnightly on Tuesdays, September to June, in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, at 8pm. All welcome! https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthy-Toastmasters129333810455771 for updates. ■
ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS NEEDS YOU!
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers meet on Sunday mornings to collect litter and tidy up around the town. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed! So if you are sick of seeing rubbish on your road, street, estate or elsewhere in the community, please contact: 053 923 6518 or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com
Keep up to date on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown
Let's all help to make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener! ■
The Annual Youth Conference of Wexford Comhairle na nÓg was held on 23rd October in the Council Chamber of County Hall with over 100 young people from secondary schools and youth organisations across Co. Wexford attending the event.
The Annual Youth Conference is a chance for young people’s voices to be heard. A wide range of issues which young people in County Wexford feel are impacting on their lives were identified and ways in which Comhairle na nOg can address these issues were discussed.
Attended by Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council (WCC) Councillor Joe Sullivan and Cllr. Patricia Byrne, the event gave the young people the opportunity to understand the weight and value of their opinions as members of Comhairle na nÓg.
Cllr Sullivan said, “As Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council I am delighted to support this continued partnership with Comhairle na nÓg which has gone from strength to strength. We encourage young people’s views and take them on board when developing policies for the betterment of the lives of all the citizens of County Wexford.”
New members were elected to join the current members and together these representatives will form the Wexford Comhairle na nÓg and represent young people in Co. Wexford for 2025–2026. This group will examine the issues identified at the Youth Conference and examine what measures could be put in place to a make a positive difference and how best to ensure that decision makers create opportunities for young people to have their say and contribute to determining what type of society they want to live in.
Avril O’Sullivan, Comhairle na nÓg Co-Ordinator, said, “Comhairle na nOg provides young people with local and national opportunities to have youth voices included in the design and delivery of policies, strategies and services. Young people volunteer their time, effort and skills to make meaningful change.”
Wexford Comhairle na nOg are currently working on the issue
of youth health and are making efforts to achieve positive change in a complex area.
Through their participation in Comhairle, the young people form new friendships, enhance their teamwork, communication, public speaking and research skills, and of course have fun.
Director of Services for Wexford County Council Carolyne Godkin said, “Comhairle na nÓg is the recognised structure for participation by children and young people in local decision making across all 31 local authorities of the country. The structure allows young people to identify and progress topics of importance to them; fosters political interest and importantly helps deliver a youth-led change process to improve the lives of young people in the County. I would like to thank the young people who take the time to become involved in Comhairle to represent the views of their peers; our facilitation partner, FDYS; Youth Work Ireland, the Children and Young Peoples Services Committee (CYPSC), Wexford Waterford Education & Training Board, as well as the wider community section of Wexford County Council and other agencies who help to provide a cohesive approach to youth participation in the county and to progressing topics of importance to young people.” ■
Let’s get all defibrillators available to find on Google Maps
“The HSE should work with Google Maps to ensure the location of all registered defibrillators are provided on the app which could save lives in an emergency”
– Patrick Higgins
Patrick Higgins of Kilmuckridge is calling on the HSE and the technology giant, Google Maps, to work together to ensure that all registered defibrillators nationwide are available on Google Maps, given how commonly used the app is for navigation and location-based services.
Mr Higgins says, "Automated external defibrillators can increase chances of survival in cases of cardiac arrest.
“In an emergency when time is of the essence, knowing where the nearest AED is located in a community literally means the difference between and life and death.
“I moved to Kilmuckridge in 2019 and if someone was to fall down in front of me, I couldn’t tell you back then where you could find one. After carrying out some research I discovered there are plenty of AED defibrillators in the area. My worry is when summer comes again and the population of Kilmuckridge and Cahore rises, would people know where to go?”
Mr Higgins added, "In rural areas or neighbourhoods that can sometimes be located far from medical facilities or the local shop, having a defibrillator on hand and knowing how to use and access it is critical. The HSE's National Ambulance Service asks people to register defibrillators and it is added to a database. Once the AED is registered Emergency Call Takers may notify people about the location of the nearest device during a 999/112 call. That is why they urge the public to notify them and register their AEDs."
Former County Councillor and Chairperson of Defibs4Gorey Andrew Bolger says, “According to the National Ambulance Service many AEDs are never used because emergency services don’t know where they are or how to access them. Local first responders will be aware but it’s important to highlight their locations. You can’t predict who will be at the scene of an emergency first."
"Bystanders on the scene, where there are out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in this country, increased by 25% between 2012 and 2023, according to a HSE report published last year. The report found members of the public defibrillated 304 patients, of whom 89 survived (29%), which demonstrates the importance of Community First Responders and Public Access Defibrillators."
“A search on Google Maps can show up some publicly accessible AEDs. However, I would call on the HSE to work with Google by providing it with its list of registered defibrillators so the coordinates of as many devices as possible can be found on Google Maps.”
Patrick Higgins has written to both the HSE and Google Ireland requesting a joined-up approach on this matter by collaborating to ensure the whole AED network is available on Google Maps ■
Wexford County Council Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act,
2014, Section 15 (1)
To: The tenant of the dwelling, Property No 8653 at No 42 Cluain Huigead, Hewittsland, New Ross, 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 8653 at No 42 Cluain Huigead, Hewittsland New Ross, 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 8653, at No 42, Cluain Huigead, Hewittsland, New Ross, 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 8653, at No 42 Cluain Huigead, Hewittsland, New Ross, 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 8653, at No 42 Cluain Huigead, Hewittsland, New Ross, 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 8653 at No 42 Cluain Huigead, Hewittsland, New Ross, 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 8653 at No 42 Cluain Huigead, Hewittsland, New Ross, Co. Wexford.
Signed: Martina Donoghue
Administrative Officer, Wexford County Council.
Dated: 24th of October 2025.
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post:
Harbour Constable
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 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, 6th November 2025.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post: Architectural 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 13th November 2025.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post: Creative Communities Engagement Officer (Contract)
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 13th November 2025.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Tenders
The following tender competitions are currently active. If you wish to obtain further information and make a submission for any of the tenders please visit www.etenders.gov.ie
Wexford County Council (Enniscorthy Municipal District) Traffic and Car Parking Bye Laws 2025
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council and the Chairman and Members of Enniscorthy Municipal District in exercise of the powers vested in them by Section 101 of the Road traffic Act 1961, as amended by Section 6 of the Road Traffic Act 1968 and section 36 of the Road traffic Act 1994, and as a Municipal District Function as outlined in Schedule 3 Part 1 of the Local Government Reform Act 2014 at the Wexford County Council Meeting of the 13th October 2025 adopted the following Traffic & Car parking Bye laws
“Wexford County Council (Enniscorthy Municipal District) Traffic and Car Parking Bye Laws 2025)
These Bye Laws will commence on the 12th November 2025.
A copy of these Bye Laws may be purchased for €10 from Enniscorthy Municipal District, Market Square, Enniscorthy, Co.Wexford or can be viewed on www.wexfordcoco.ie/parkingbyelaws
Spooktacular window competition
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE TOP THREE IN THE ENNISCORTHY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT HALLOWEEN SHOP WINDOW COMPETITION.
Second: Heavenly Cafe, Wafer Street, Enniscorthy (Anastasija Liadova, Alberto Frongia, Jekaterina Mizane, and Anastasija's talented mother Jolanta who hand makes all the decorations).
All three were presented with their prizes by Barbara Nolan and Lisa Moore, Enniscorthy Municipal District staff. ■
International Credit Union Day
Enniscorthy Library
Adult Book Club
Thursday, 20th November at 7pm.
This club meets on the third Thursday of the month at 7pm pm and is free to join.
Book clubs are a great way to meet others and discuss books. If you would like more information or to join, contact Enniscorthy library on 053 9236055. All are welcome. n
Staff at Enniscorthy Credit Union enjoying the recent International Credit Union Day 2025.
Peter Gaynor captures the fireworks spectacle at Wexford
Festival Opera
Launch event, Wexford Quay, 17th October 2025
Great support for IKA Coffee Morning
Enniscorthy woman Catriona Kenny, having lost the required 11 stone in weight, was put on the waiting list for a kidney transplant back in April this year. Six months later, the wait continues for her but hopefully there will be good news soon.
Catriona was delighted with the success of a coffee morning fundraiser for the Irish Kidney Association which was held last month in Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre.
The well-supported event was organised by Catriona's mother, Catherine (see pic opposite of Catriona and Catherine together), along with the recently formed women's group on the Eastside of Enniscorthy – the Hillside Cailíní.
Good food, musical entertainment, singing, and even a bit of dancing made for a joyful occasion for a great cause. n
Above centre: Josephine Sweeney and Helen Murphy.
Above right: Mary Murphy and John Holden.
Left: Marie Carroll buying tickets for the raffle from Aisling Carley.
Right: Peggy and Rosemary Quirke.
Below left: Jock Lambert, Mary Morgan and Rita McDonald.
Below right: Catherine Redmond, Kay and Paddy Quinn.
Top right: Catriona and Catherine Kenny. Above left: Louise Davin and Carmel Heffernan.
Left: Gia O’Grady, Antoinette Davis, Bridgeen Brooks, John Brooks. Right: Aisling Carley, Catriona Kenny, Mary Moorehouse.
Above left: The delicious treats were in big demand. Above centre: Louise Davin, Cllr John O’Rourke, Carmel Heffernan. Above right: Rita McDonald, Julie Whelan, Mary Breen.
Above left: Some of the large attendance. Above centre: Marie Carroll with Marie Hogan. Above right: Bernie Colgan and Andy Kehoe. Below: Top class entertainment from local performers.
The ‘cúpla focail’ 50 years of service
Help A.D. Electrical help mental health
AD Electrical, a local, family-run electrical company founded in 2024 by electrician Anthony Dobbs, is proud to announce a charity event in aid of Mental Health Ireland. The event will take place on Friday, December 6th, at 8:00pm in the Bellefield GAA Complex.
The evening promises to be an enjoyable and memorable occasion, featuring music by DJ Tom Moorehouse, delicious food, and a raffle with fantastic prizes generously donated by local businesses.
Mental health affects us all in different ways, and AD Electrical is passionate about supporting the vital work carried out by Mental Health Ireland—the longest-established national mental health charity in Ireland, founded in 1966. The organisation is dedicated to promoting mental health and wellbeing, and to supporting individuals on their recovery journey. Through education, empowerment, and community connection, Mental Health Ireland continues to make a lasting difference in partnership with the HSE, working to expand Ireland’s recovery network in mental health.
AD Electrical warmly invites the community to come along, enjoy the evening, and support a very worthy cause. All proceeds from the night will go directly to Mental Health Ireland. n
On 17th October Wexford Community Workshop, now called Reach Ability, launched an exhibition of photographs at its Dill & Pickle Restaurant detailing its inception and development over the past 50 years, with special guests Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Chair of Enniscorthy Municipal District, Rev Nicola Halford, Michael Dee, David Wrafter, Karen Fitzgerald, HSE General Manager, and Jamie Pollard who had the honour of cutting the red ribbon and declaring the exhibition officially open.
In his introduction, CEO Trevor Jacob acknowledged founder Fr. Tony Scallan, who had the foresight, vision and determination back in 1974 to gather a group of volunteers together to provide a service for adults with disabilities.
The service began at the Athenaeum and St. Patrick’s Boys Club in 1975. The site at Bellefield was purchased in 1976 and the complex was built on ‘Nolan’s Lawn’ and officially opened by the then Tánaiste Brendan Corish in 1979, and the rest is history and that history was the subject of the exhibition – a photographic account of the past 50 years of service at the Bellefield venue. Trevor thanked service users, volunteers, colleagues, funding representatives and all who have given of their time to provide quality and innovative services for those with disabilities.
The excellently curated exhibition was an absolute treasure with joy and happiness oozing from each and every photograph, inspiring, uplifting and a testament to the kindness and care so evident at Reach Ability. Well done to all and here’s to another 50 years of this wonderful service in Enniscorthy.
– Maria Nolan
See photos on pages 74-75.
Wexford Chamber Choir presents ‘There will be rest’
Wexford Chamber Choir will be presenting ‘There will be rest – A year at its close’ at three venues in Co. Wexford over the coming weeks. ✨
Enjoy an evening of stunning choral music featuring works by Burns, Culloton, Grieg, Lauridsen, Gjeilo, Stopford, Ticheli, and Whitacre, plus festive favourites.
★ Fri 28 Nov, 19:00 – The Church of the Assumption, Our Lady’s Island
★ Sat 6 Dec, 17:00 – St Mary’s Church, Enniscorthy
★ Sun 7 Dec, 15:00 – St Peter’s College Chapel, Wexford Town
Tickets €15 at the door or wexfordartscentre.ie n
Marmen Quartet in Enniscorthy
In a major coup for Enniscorthy’s Presentation Arts Centre, the renowned Marmen Quartet will perform there on 8th November presented by Music for Wexford. The quartet are:
With the courage, vitality and intensity of its performances, the Marmen Quartet is fast establishing itself as one of the most impressive and engaging talents in chamber music, demonstrated by recent first prizes at the prestigious Bordeaux and Banff International String Quartet Competitions.
Programme:
Haydn - String Quartet Op.76 No.4 Sunrise [1797]
Sam Perkin - My Young Love Was Gone [2016 rev. 2024]
Bartók - String Quartet No.3 [1927]
Beethoven - String Quartet in F major Op.135 [1826]
Music for Wexford presents this concert in association with National String Quartet Foundation. https://nsqf.ie/autumn-2025
The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: https://www.presentationcentre.ie n
Marmen Quartet, November 8th at 8pm, The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, will play Haydn, Bartok, Perkin, and Beethoven.
WLOS ‘Hits’ show is a triumph
The much-anticipated "Hits from The Musicals" 2025 show presented by Wexford Light Opera Society (WLOS) took take place in Whites Hotel, Wexford, from Monday 27th to Thursday 30th October 2025 during Wexford Festival Opera.
This year’s musical spectacular featured a blend of timeless classics and contemporary gems from the world of musical theatre from well-known shows such as Guys and Dolls, Mary Poppins, Chess, Sister Act, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King and a host of newer, less well known productions.
The show highlighted the renowned chorus of Wexford Light Opera Society, as well as a variety of soloists who regularly perform or have performed with the society over the years. In addition a number of younger performers put in stunning performances which augurs well for the future of musical theatre in Co. Wexford.
The production team of Musical Director David Hayes, Director Stephen Byrne, and Chorus Mistress Eithne Corrigan excelled in bringing over 20 musical numbers to an appreciative soldout audience every night of the four-night run. And, as always, the show was brilliantly compered by the one and only Catherine ‘Biddy’ Walsh, bringing both humour and pathos to the role.
As soon as the curtain had fallen on their Hits show, attention is now being turned to their next massive production – 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 include I Don’t Know How to Love Him, Gethsemane, Hosanna, Superstar, and Could We Start Again Please? to name but a few.
Auditions took place on 12th October 2025, and a much anticipated announcemnt of the cast will be made in the very near future.
For tickets, keep an eye on the National Opera House box office. Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30-17:00. Telephone: 053 9122144.
Online: www.nationaloperahouse.ie n
Wexford Light Opera Society performers prepare to take a well deserved bow with compere Catherine ‘Biddy’ Walsh in front and, in the foreground Chorus Mistress Eithne Corrigan and Musical Director David Hayes both on keyboards.
One of the main performers was Enniscorthy’s Therese Canavan Bolger, second from left.
Enniscorthy Voices in Harmony
Voices in Harmony, the new all-male voice choir based in Enniscorthy, will be holding its second annual fundraising concert on Friday, December 5th at 8pm.
Once again the splendid Presentation Arts Centre will be the venue for what promises to be a beautiful evening of songs, old and new.
This year the men will be singing a few songs which you may not have heard before. This is because they have teamed up with local musician and playwright Paul O’Reilly to compose their own original compositions.
Sponsored by Creative Places Enniscorthy, with thanks to Deryn O’Callaghan, the men have been hard at work crafting the themes and lyrics for their songs.
With expert guidance from Paul
Enniscorthy men’s choir to present charity fundraising concert
O’Reilly, who has selected the airs to the songs, they now have two unique pieces of work, never aired before on Slaneyside.
The choir, now known as ‘Voices in Harmony’, will also be singing pieces from their new CD, ‘Altogether Now’.
Copies of the CD will be on sale on the night and proceeds from the sale of the
At €10, the CD will make an excellent Christmas gift for someone who loves their music.
All proceeds from the concert ticket sales will be donated to the Day Care Centre at St. John’s Hospital, a very worthy cause that is close to the hearts of all those in the choir and in the wider community.
It promises to be a special evening under the expert baton of Musical Director Linda O’Rourke.
Please go along and support the men on the evening if you can.
For more information and CD and ticket sales – contact Linda O’Rourke at the St. Senan’s Parish Office 053 9261729 or Seamus Whitney on 087 293510. n
CD will be donated to the Wexford Mental Health Association.
Flashback exhibition
Denis O’Connor’s and Pat ‘Flash’ O’Connor’s photographs on show at Opera Festival ‘Flashback’ exhibition
The late photographer Denis O’Connor (1928 to 1996) left a legacy of thousands of valuable photographic plates and film from his time of photographing people and news events throughout County Wexford from the mid-1950s to the late 1980s.
His daughter Denise Murphy O’Connor curated the plates and film and his son Pat ’Flash’ have presented popular exhibitions of prints from them to successive Wexford Festival Opera goers. This year, it was the 25th exhibition.
Pat, known as ‘Flash’, has carried on his father’s tradition as a news photographer for The Wexford People Group for 43 years and today, as a freelance, serving media including Slaney News. Father and son have together provided a photographic service to County Wexford spanning almost 70 years.
Eamonn O’Connor, Denise and Pat’s brother, launched the exhibition at 99 South Main Street Wexford on the site of the old bookies shop, run for many years by the well-known Nancy Codd who chipped in to the conversation with visitors giving accounts of the 60s,70s and 80s and her friendships with the O’Connor family.
Denis O’Connor was born in Ballindaggin. He left home in the 1940s and became a London policeman during the era of the notorious organised criminals – the Kray Twins. In England he practised his hobby of photography and, on his return home, came to live in Wexford town. There he met his wife Phyllis Hore, sister of another well-known press and studio photographer, the award-winning Ger.
Denis and Phyllis set up a dark room at Paul Quay. Denis used a Rolleiflex camera at first and later used Hasselblad, Bronica, Leica, Nikon, Fuji, and Canon cameras. From Paul Quay they
Photographic memories from the photographic archives of Denis and Pat O’Connor, curated by Denise Murphy O’Connor, in the Flashback ‘Happy Days’ Exhibition at 99 South Main Street, Wexford, during the Wexford Festival Opera.
Above: Eamonn O’Connor (MC) and Neill O’Connor.
Below: Mary Roche and Anne Connelly.
Bottom left: Nancy Codd and Freddie Codd.
Bottom right: Denise Murphy née O’Connor (organiser and curator), Heidi Pierce, Philip Broaders, Mary Roche and Antoinette Broaders.
processed and disseminated news photographs for local newspapers, national newspapers, and newspapers across the world. In 1957, Denis created pictorial records of the early Wexford Festival Opera.
Among the thousands of events he photographed were the visits to Wexford of Dwight Eisenhower, President of the USA, John Fitzgerald Kennedy, President of the USA, President Seán T. O’Kelly, Uachtarán na hÉireann, and Éamon de Valera, Uachtarán na hÉireann.
He covered also the triumphs and tragedies of the county and the achievements and disasters in General Elections, Wexford Corporation meetings, courts, politics, accidents, music, opera, All Irelands, and sport generally.
He was for some time captain of Wexford Golf Club.
He and Pat Hayes, another press photographer, were awarded a Civic Award by Wexford Borough Council.
The photographs of Denis O’Connor are featured too in
and
M.F.
MEET SANTA AT WHEELOCKS
Join Santa for Breakfast or Lunch at The Village at Wheelocks this December.
Taking place in the beautifully decorated sunroom, twinkling with Christmas lights and festive cheer, enjoy a delicious buffet-style breakfast or lunch as Santa visits each table with warm greetings and laughter.
Afterwards, meet Santa one-to-one in his Christmas Cabin, where every child will receive a special gift.
For the adults and children, there will be Christmas markets taking place on the same days that Santa visits.
So book now to avoid disappointment!
Limited slots available on 6th, 13th & 20th December – check out https://thevillageatwheelocks.ie/event/breakfast-andlunch-with-santa/ n
Whitford House Hotel
the Bugler Doyle’s pub in South Main Street.
Above: Mary O’Hanlon and Lynn Nolan.
Below: Mary Roche and Patti Hall. Bottom: Peter Nolan, Eamonn O’Connor, and Pat O’Hanlon.
Christmas Food & Wine Craft Fair returns to the Riverside Park Hotel
Plans for the first major event of the Christmas season, the Lions and Hockey Club’s Food & Wine Craft Fair in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on Sunday, November 23rd, are at an advanced stage with both clubs reporting a phenomenal response from crafters and food producers from across the county. It’s three years since the clubs’ last joint venture in organising a Christmas Food & Wine Craft Fair which in 2022 attracted more than 700 visitors to the ballroom of the Riverside Park Hotel, but with this year’s extended viewing hours for the general public, the number of visitors is expected to set new records for an event of this kind.
The Christmas Food & Wine Craft Fair will open to the public at 12 noon on Sunday, November 23rd, and continue right through until 7pm that evening. The extended viewing hours is in response to public demand and will provide attendees with an ideal opportunity to view the creativity, skill and imagination of County Wexford’s best food producers and crafters.
This year’s event will also feature Transition Year students from both Coláiste Bríde and Enniscorthy CBS secondary schools where mini companies have been established to produce an array of different products for the Christmas market. Quite a number of Transition Year students are involved in the design and manufacture of a host of household items ranging from crochet and knitted garments to useful kitchen utensils and jewellery. Their creative and collective talents will certainly add to the overall range of crafts and locally manufactured goods on display at the craft fair.
In addition to many leading Wexford crafters participating, food producers will also be in attendance to display their own artistry, with mouth-watering delicacies and flavours, crafted with care from traditions passed down which will both surprise and delight.
Because of space constraints in the ballroom of the Riverside Park Hotel, the number of display stands will be limited to 45 approximately and are being allocated on a first-come-firstserved basis. Most, though not all, display stands have
already been booked but a limited number are still available for crafters and food producers alike. Interested persons should contact Enniscorthy Lions Club via email at: lionsclubenniscorthy@gmail.com
The Christmas Food & Wine Craft Fair is being organised by a committee under the chairmanship of Dr. Mairead Kelly as part of the local Lions Club’s Social Awareness Programme in support of worthwhile projects in Enniscorthy. The objective of the exercise, in addition to raising funds, is to promote and highlight the vast array of skilled craft people and dedicated food producers from across the district and further afield. The Craft Fair, according to Dr. Kelly, will help support local talent, sustain traditions, and encourage innovation while, at the same time, offering visitors to the Fair an ideal opportunity of purchasing an early Christmas present for a loved one.
The Food Wine & Craft Fair will showcase every facet of Wexford’s multi-talented crafters and food producers while offering all attendees an ideal opportunity to enjoy the first major social event of the festive season in Enniscorthy. n
Creative handcrafts galore at the new Kilmore Quay Community Market
The south-east is teeming with creative talent as evidenced by the handmade crafts colourfully displayed at the regular Kilmore Quay Community Market. Initially, about a dozen stall-holders were there engaged with numerous purchasers in the sun-blessed, outdoor environment of sea and trawlers and small boats. However, the number of stallholders swelled to thirty-seven in the months following when the market moved into the Stella Maris Centre for
Lauri Smiley, founder of the Kilmore Community Market
Lauri Smiley, a retired specialist nurse from the American Embassy in Dublin, came to Ireland in the 1980s. Her ‘whole job in the Embassy was to get the diplomats into healthcare’. Before coming to Ireland, she was a nurse in the Northwestern Memorial Hospital, part of the Northwestern Medical School, in Chicago where she worked with many doctors there.
She met her husband, John D’Arcy, a geologist, in Dun Laoghaire more than 40 years ago.
Among the many diplomats and ambassadors she tended in the American Embassy was a member of the County Wexford American dynasty, Jean Kennedy-Smith (1928-2020), ambassador to Ireland for six years in the 1990s, sister of the assassinated President of the USA, John Fitzgerald Kennedy (1917-1963). n
the Autumn.
It was her identification of ‘amazing native talent’ and ‘the fact that people needed to make some money,’ that inspired American-native Lauri Smiley from Chicago to set up the market. She approached the Harbour Master in Kilmore who readily gave his assent subject to her having public liability insurance. She applied to Wexford County Council ‘who were really good’, and set up the market in May of this year.
In the Stella Maris Centre in October, the ‘crafters were upstairs and downstairs’, displaying beautiful pieces ranging from paintings to plants and polished carvings, wickerwork and wine racks. There was jewellery, calendars, framed photographs, fragrances. And there were sailing ships and candles, and caps and jackets, and Christmas décor.
Many of the crafts were made from Wexford local natural materials.
You could buy a small piece made from local resources by the artist’s own hand for anything from an entirely reasonable €20. Over time, those pieces may fetch exponential multiples of that.
The market has been going so well said Lauri Smiley, that ‘people from Dublin want to be here, but we have no room. After Christmas, we will probably take a breather with the market until May of next year.’
Among those with a display on Kilmore Quay was Helen Murray who was donating the proceeds of her sales to a suicide prevention charity. And inside the Stella Maris Centre was Johnny Moore who was donating the proceeds of his sales to the RNLI.
See photos on following two pages
– M.F
The Stella Maris Centre, Kilmore Quay
Kilmore Quay Community Market
Top left: Bernadette O’Neill. Top centre: Ion and E Milia Piturcescu from Carlow. Top right: Chloe Reddy. Above left: Busy inside the Stella Maris Centre. Above right: John D'Arcy, Lauri Smiley and Mary Millist. Below left: Joan Dunbar, Enniscorthy. Below centre: Lauri Smiley, founder of the Kilmore Quay Community Market. Below right: Marion Brady. Bottom left: June Archibold. Bottom centre: Johnny Flood raising funds for the RNLI. Bottom right: Michelle Sinnott, Adamstown.
Top
Above
Above
Below
Bottom
Below
Bottom
Top left: Anne Lawlor.
right: Tom Logan, Wexford town.
left: Helen Murray, Kilmore Quay.
right: Josh Wells and Rebekah Pearson. Left: Margaret Murphy.
left: Nicky Murphy, Milehouse, Enniscorthy.
right: Suzanne Rowe.
left: Sean Dillon, Mulrankin, and Jaqi Thongton, Bangkok.
right: Beau Blaithin, Ramsgrange.
Exhibition at Enniscorthy Castle
The current exhibition, “The Waters of Wexford – Goddesses, Pirates and Shipwrecks” has been extended into 2026. This amazing exhibition brings to light the life blood of our county – the waterways. Explore the folklore and the stories that have shown just how important the river Slaney was in its role as a highway of commerce and transportation. Learn more about the heritage of our riverside town and how it grew from the water, its history passed on through stories and tales of pirates and shipwrecks.
Enniscorthy Castle is open 7 days a week and always well worth a visit. www.enniscorthycastle.ie n
Christmas wreath workshop
Join in on 29th November and 6th, 13th & 20th December 10–12pm or 2–4pm for a bit of creativity and Christmas craic!
For just €75, you’ll take home two gorgeous wreaths, enjoy mince pies, tea & coffee, and have a great laugh while getting into the holiday mood!
Call 053 923 5514 and press 4 to book today. Spots will fill up fast so don’t delay! n
Aqua Babies in Enniscorthy
Brand-new Aqua Babies (6 months – 3 years) classes will be starting soon at the Waterfront Pool & Leisure Centre in Enniscorthy.
These fun-filled sessions are designed to help both parents and little ones build confidence and feel comfortable in the water. Through play, songs, and gentle guidance, you’ll learn tips and techniques to make family trips to the pool stress-free and full of smiles! Whether your baby is just starting their water journey or already loves to splash, AquaBabies is the perfect way to bond, learn, and have fun together in a safe and supportive environment. Spaces are limited so book your spot now (tel: 053-9234443) and join the fun! n
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
(of which two talks have already taken place):
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
MIKE DENVER and guests in concert at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy
Mike Denver, one of Galway's favourite sons, is riding the crest of a wave. His audience is vast throughout Ireland, North and South, and he is now making inroads in the UK with some sellout concerts in England and Scotland over the past couple of years.
Mike's meteoric rise in popularity culminated with him been voted ‘Entertainer of the Year 2016' together with No. 1 album of the Year 'Cut Loose' at the ACMA Awards on RTE TV.
With his excellent backing band, Mike presents a two-and-a-half-hour high energy concert show which features all his 'Hits' including 'Tommy K', 'Wasn't that a Party', 'Galway Girl', ‘Blown Away', plus 'hits' from the 60s and 70s.
Definitely a show not to be missed! n
RIVERSIDE PARK HOTEL, ENNISCORTHY, FRIDAY 6TH FEBRUARY 2026.
Special Guests: JACK KEOGH AND CLAUDIA BUCKLEY. Tickets at Hotel reception and Ticketmaster.ie THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT! n
SPREADING JOY, ONE TOY AT A TIME
A local woman will be holding a Christmas toy drive in Enniscorthy on November 17th at 6pm in the Meraki cafe restaurant opposite the main entrance into Dunnes Stores.
Donations of new or gently used toys would be most welcome but you don't have to bring a toy. And families can feel safe to go along, take what is needed for their kids, with no judgement. n
Charity fundraiser
The wonderful ‘All of the Other Reindeer’ music fundraiser will be taking place again this year at Holohan’s Pub in aid of Multiple Sclerosis Ireland.
Do you want to be involved in a fantastic event for a fantastic cause? Would you like to sing a song or two? Do you want to be a part of general fundraising? So if you would like to get involved in this year’s event, either performing or helping out behind the scenes, please get in touch with the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AlloftheOtherReindeer
See you on December 12th in Holohans Pub for a great night of music and fun for a very worthy cause. n
Drama classes in Enniscorthy
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
Coming this December
Wexford Film Society launches its new season of films
The Picture House (Wexford Film Society) had a special screening of a new short film based on a tragic event in the village of Taghmon in 1982 at their programme launch of their 2025/26 season.
Written and directed by Alan Walsh, ‘One Last Show in Taghmon’ is in part a tribute to John Condron, a 23-year-old stuntman who lost his life having misjudged his stunt while performing a jump from Taghmon Castle as an attraction at the 1982 Taghmon Mardi Gras.
Filmed in the village last March, the short is currently being submitted to film festivals all over the world .
Joining Alan for the screening in Wexford Arts Centre, were two cast members, the multi IFTA nominated Simon Delaney and ‘Red Rock' star Adam Weafer, who flew in from London especially for the screening.
In a chat with The Picture House chairman Stephen Eustace after the screening, Alan, who has worked as a stunt performer/stunt coordinator for decades, described how the project came about.
“John and I started out as stuntmen together, ‘Strumpet City' was the first thing we did. John actually called me before going down to Taghmon to see if I wanted to come along, but I couldn't make it.” Feeling that his life and career were cut so short, “I always wanted to give him a starring role, to make up for not being there," he explained.
He said the people of Taghmon were “amazing”. “They couldn't do enough for us. They opened their doors to us and gathered in numbers for the crowd scene. They really made it very easy for us."
Alan also credited Cllr. Jim Codd, who was also in attendance, for his vital support.
This was the third time Simon Delaney has worked with Alan and he credits Alan for getting him into the business. “Alan gave me my very first acting job in film and, to this day, he's one of the best directors I've worked with. He's very quiet on set, he just lets everyone get on with their job. And he's a great writer. He writes real people.”
Adam said he hadn't heard about the story until Alan approached him about taking on the role of John, but he was more than happy to come on board based on the passion Alan had for the project.
The main function of the night though was to launch the programme for the film society's new season, which kicks off on November 4th with ‘Black Dog' from China. Throughout the season, they will screen some of the best in Art House film from all around the world with a couple of classics to savour too, with the season running weekly up to the end of March.
One of the early highlights is ‘I'm Still Here’ (Nov. 18th), the Brazilian winner of this year's Academy Award in the Best International Feature category, while Pedro Almodovar’s Venice Film Festival winner ‘The Room Next Door’ is another high profile title coming on December 2nd.
The season also includes films from Italy, France, Iran, India and Palestine. A selection of short films made by local filmmakers will also be screened throughout the season.
Memberships for the season (€85 – single/€70 – OAP or Unwaged) can be obtained at the Wexford Arts Centre or before any of The Picture House screenings. Alternatively, it's €10 per film for non-members. n
Above L-R: Alan Walsh, Simon Delaney, Adam Weafer, and Stephen Eustace, Chairman, The Picture House. Right: Stephen Eustace with Cllr Jim Codd.
Opera pop-up at Whites Hotel transports the plebs
She was amazing. The singing and performance of opera singer Jane Burnell transported the midday audience in the splendid foyer with spiral staircase of White’s Hotel into heavenly raptures. It was a free pop-up and the audience seemed to be a flashmob.
Word had gone like wildfire around Wexford town that this phenomenon was about to take place and the ordinary proletariat descended in an enormous crowd from seemingly everywhere to sample what the bourgeoise can afford and they miss. It was thronged, you could not move, and the glazed eyes of the audience were fixed on another world by the performance.
In what seemed a time too short, Jane Burnell sang four pieces. They were: Morgen by Richard Strauss, Quando m’en vo (Musetta’s Waltz) from La Bohéme by Puccini, I Could Have Danced by Lowewe, and Anfonaf Angel by Robat Arwyn.
Her dancers, all equally handsome young men, all seemingly intent on competing for her attention were Andrea Carozzi, Pietro Gerbo and Ivan Struik. The pianist was Alessandro Uva.
At the end, the audience stood in an applause that might have lasted well into the afternoon.
Kelly Yeiga, from Brazil, of the Wexford Opera Press Office was most helpful to this member of the Press.
Above left: Jane Burnell performs.
Above right: Gathering for Jane Burnell.
Below left: Section of the pop-up audience.
Below right: Jane Burnell with dancers and pianists.
50 years of service at Reach Ability
Photos on this page by Maria Nolan
On Friday, 17th October 2025, Reach Ability launched its “50 Years of Reach Ability” Exhibition at its Bellefield headquarters, Enniscorthy. The event, led by CEO Trevor Jacob, featured heartfelt reflections from founding member Michael Dee, Chairman David Wrafter, and HSE General Manager Karen Fitzgerald, before Jamie Pollard officially cut the ribbon to open the exhibition.
Reach Ability (formerly CWCW Enniscorthy) is celebrating 50 years of service this year and one of its major celebratory events was a Special Exhibition held last month titled “50 Years of Reach Ability”.
This unique exhibition took visitors on a journey through five decades of service, showcasing the organisation’s history through photographs, video, and memorabilia. With a nostalgic “Reeling in the Years” feel, the exhibition highlighted the many stories, milestones, and achievements that have shaped Reach Ability since its founding in 1975.
The event was open to the public for free and offered an opportunity for community members, past staff, families, and friends to come together, reminisce, and reflect on the lasting impact Reach Ability has had in supporting individuals with disabilities across Co. Wexford.
Reach Ability has been a pillar of the disability services in Co. Wexford for half a century, offering support across creative arts, life skills, volunteering, sports, and community integration. Today, it continues to empower individuals to connect, grow, and thrive.
Above left: Jamie Pollard cuts the exhibition ribbon. Above right: Maria Nolan with Michelle Foley and Jacqui Murphy who both work at Reach Ability.
Above left: Trevor Jacob and Jacqui Murphy of Reach Ability at the exhibition launch. Above centre: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District in front of a painting of Fr Tony Scallan who was instrumental in founding the Reach Ability organisation.
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
Left: First Manager of CWCW Máirín O’Dwyer, with current CEO Trevor Jacob.
Right: Shanice O’ConnorMoorehouse, Liam Treacy, Lorna Hogan. Below left: Enjoying the exhibition. Below centre: Margaret Askins and colourful ‘friend’! Below right: Sisters Margaret O’Connor and Janet Mahon. Janet has been attending Reach Ability for the last 48 years.
Above left: Founding member Michael Dee greeted by Reach Ability’s Trish Hogan.
Right: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District, signs the visitors’ book.
All-Star Concert at St. Mary’s
Words & pics by Maria Nolan
Enniscorthy Lions Club recently held an All Star Concert at St. Mary’s Church of Ireland in aid of St. Patrick’s Special School and the talent on display was second to none as the enthusiastic audience was treated to stellar performances from some of Wexford’s most amazing talents.
George Lawlor TD opened proceedings with beautiful renditions of Grace and The Town I Love So Well followed by Roisin Dempsey and the Valda Chamber Choir, The Quinns with nostalgic numbers like I’ll Do My Crying in the Rain, operatic pieces from Ukrainian performer Olha Doroshchuk, beautiful local singer Lorna Mahon who finished her performance aptly with the famous Time to Say Goodbye, and drawing a curtain on the very well received concert traditional band Reel Time played us out with some rousing Irish numbers that had the appreciative audience clapping along.
Yvonne Collier accompanied all of the delightful and inspiring performances in aid of a great cause.
MC for the concert, the Rev. Nicola Halford, got in on the act herself giving a twirl of her beautiful dress for the occasion compliments of Mary Hudson and Glamour Boutique as she thanked everyone for attending and the artists in particular for lending their talent, their support, and their generosity to the Lions Club and St. Patrick’s. n
Left: Reel Time. Below left: Roisin Dempsey and the Valda Chamber Choir. Below: George Lawlor.
Lorna Mahon
enniscorthy 'Thru’ the Lens: Youth Vibes from the 70’s
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.
Above left: Friends – Paul Lawless, Anne Murphy, Colm O’Leary, Mag Mitchell.
Above right: ‘Votes at 18’ Campaign – Phil Courtney and Susan Hill.
Left: Disco girls – Liz O’Leary, Helen Harris.
Below: Guinness Book of Records Basketball Marathon. Back row L-R: Andy Doyle, Joe Kiernan, Eddie O’Connor, Dan Jordan, Pat Nolan, Seán Carty, Seamus Whitney, Bob O’Brien, Mick Murphy, Jim Lawlor, Joe O’Connor, George Blackburn. Front L to R: Mick Quigley RIP, Matt Flynn, Susan Hill, Patricia Condon, Breda Lawless, Tony Fagan, Fr. Scallan, Aileen Kirwan, Siobhan Whitney, Jean Redmond.
Enniscorthy Retirement Association
The Enniscorthy Retirement Association holds monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of every month at 2.30pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, The Promenade, Enniscorthy, with the exception of January and August.
There are regular outings, as well as various activities every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. For further details about Enniscorthy Retirement Association go along to any monthly meeting or see ‘Enniscorthy Retirement Association’ on Facebook or email: enniscorthtyretirementassociation@outlook.com
Check out the 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.
What’s on in Wexford
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WexfordEvents for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n
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
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
10.30am
Bonnie Fukumoto of Bee Graceful Upcycles and Lynn Haughton of The Upcycle Movement (pictured below) teamed up on the recent Bank Holiday Monday to host the firstever Community Clothes SWAP in Enniscorthy. The two-day pop-up event was held in a transformed vacant property and was a huge success, with fantastic local support –hundreds of pre-loved clothing items were swapped, giving garments a new lease of life. A clothing swap event encourages sustainability by allowing participants to exchange gently used clothes, helping to reduce textile waste and promote mindful consumption. The initiative was made possible with the support of Sustainable Enniscorthy, Wexford County Council Climate Action, and many volunteers. n
The Halloween Costume Swap held on 9th October last in St Senan’s school in Enniscorthy saw 65 costumes being swapped – a spooktacular step towards sustainability!
The school came alive on that day as families from across the community gathered for a fun-filled, eco-conscious evening at the Halloween Costume Swap.
Organised by Sustainable Enniscorthy with support from Wexford County Council, the event was a big hit, with 65 costumes successfully swapped, giving pre-loved outfits a brand-new life – and saving both money and the planet in the process.
The evening kicked off at 7pm, as families dropped off their gently-used Halloween costumes and received vouchers in return – one for each item donated. By 7:30 pm, the school hall buzzed with interest as attendees gathered for a live Repair Demonstration, showcasing how simple mending skills can extend the life of costumes and clothes alike. The session, part of the #LetsGetCircular initiative, emphasised sustainability, creativity, and reducing textile waste.
At 8pm, it was time to swap! Excited children and parents browsed the costume selection, redeeming their vouchers for “new-to-you” outfits perfect for spooky season. From witches to superheroes, dinosaurs to fairies – there was something for everyone.
This event supported global sustainability goals including Goal 12: Responsible
Spooktacular step towards sustainability Community clothes swap is a success
Consumption and Production, and Goal 13: Climate Action.
Thanks to the enthusiastic support of the Enniscorthy community, the Costume Swap was a true celebration of community spirit, circular fashion, and environmental responsibility.
Let’s keep the momentum going – Let’s get circular! n
Siobhan Stanbridge
THE SHINING
Movie
Reviews by Kyle Walsh
I love this time of year, not only is it my birthday but it’s Halloween. If, like me, you love your horror movies, well there’s no better time of year to catch the latest releases in the cinema or on your streaming services, or if you’re like me you just go to your film collection and root out one of your very own all-time favourite horror movies. I dug deep into my collection and I picked out the brand new 4k bluray of The Shining. I sat down on Halloween night, munched on some monkey nuts and whatever else I could get my hands on, and tuned into this glorious edition of The Shining. They just don’t make movies like this anymore.
The Shining is based on Stephen King’s 1977 novel of the same name. While a fictional story, the novel and movie were inspired by King’s own experiences. While King and his wife were the only two people that stayed in The Stanley Hotel in Colarado in 1974 in offseason, King struggled with the demon drug alcohol. While there, King suffered with nightmares, especially ones about his son being chased. After their stay in the hotel, King decided to write the novel. When the movie was released in 1980, King expressed his disappointment with the changes made to the story throughout the movie. To this very day he still thinks it’s the worst adaptation from any of his works turned into movies.
It’s a simple story. A family goes to stay off-season in the snowcovered, secluded, Colarado Overlook Hotel. Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson) has landed a job as an off-season caretaker. Jack is also an aspiring author and a recovering alcoholic. He’s a husband to Wendy (Shelley Duvall) and a father to Danny (Danny Lloyd). Before taking on the job, Jack is told about the hotel being built on an Indian burial ground and there was a caretaker in the past who gruesomely murdered his daughters and wife before killing himself. Jack laughs it off and takes on the job without saying a word about any of this to his wife. Meanwhile, we find out that his son Danny has The Shining which means he has premonition and telepathic abilities. Before we
can say The Shining, the hotel’s supernatural forces exploit Jack’s mental instabilities leading him to violence and terror towards his own family. He wants to kill them with an axe. What will happen? Will Jack kill his family? Will they survive?
Nicholson and Duvall light up the screen without ever tipping into caricature. Nicholson’s simmering menace grows so gradually that when it finally boils over you feel the heat. Duvall meanwhile grounds the film in raw vulnerability, her eyes say as much as her words and you’re right there with her in every tense beat. Danny’s quiet, eerie presence ties it altogether, hinting at a deeper darkness without giving too much away.
This film blends horror, psychological drama, and suspense, exploring isolation, madness, family dynamics, and the destructive potential of unaddressed trauma. It is an unending rollercoaster of terror that knows exactly how to get under the skin of anyone who watches it. It’s a great movie.
Just to elaborate a little bit more about the movie. It was directed by the great Stanley Kubrick. This movie has inspired filmmakers and film lovers and multiple generations since its first release and it continues to this day to do so because it truly is that great. On its release, critics actually struggled to make sense of it. The movie received very mixed reviews from professionals and ordinary movie-goers. It’s also very hard to believe that the film was nominated for two Razzie Awards in 1981 for the worst actress, Shelley Duvall, and for the worst director, Stanley Kubrick, which is just insane as this film is just about as perfect as you can get. It’s one of very few films that I’ve seen that I don’t really see any flaws in.
The genius of Kubrick is that he will show you amazing images, he will present you essentially a perfect film, and then you will leave not knowing exactly what you saw but you know you want to see it again. Right from the opening scene, The Shining has some of the best cinematography I have ever seen, excellently shot by John Alcott. The camerawork is masterful throughout. The hand-held camera was used here with it being relatively new in the Hollywood circle. Only a few movies before it used this new technology. I think Rocky was one of those movies.
Tons of people over the years have analysed this movie and tried to explain it. The beauty of The Shining is that there are multiple interpretations and that is something that I love about this movie in particular –you can watch it, you can feel that you understand it and have a closeness to it and then hear loads of other theories about it and think to yourself, oh that’s an interesting concept. It’s a movie that keeps giving and giving. It’s insane just how much this movie has impacted so many people all around the world.
If somehow you have not seen this movie yet (maybe you are living on the moon!) please check it out. It’s truly an all-time classic and one that I will always return to at least once a year. With each visit you do get other ideas what it is really about. But then that’s the great thing about it. That picture at the end always gets me, always makes me think, always creeps me out.
This movie gets a 10/10 from me. n
Halloween at Killegney
Killegney Early Years, Clonroche,
Halloween Party
Getting
ready to party at Killegney Early Years.
Right: Siofra Kenny.
Far right: Jack Murphy and Paise Purkiss.
Top left: Green Room with teachers.
Top right: Maebh Anna Doyle and Louise Beau Bolger. Left: Proprietor Orlagh Doyle with Tommy Kehoe and Ciara Coleman.
Above: Emma Parle and Aoibhe Byrne.
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.
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?
The production opened at the New Theatre, Dublin in February 2024, where it garnered excellent reviews from audi-
Slaney adult writing club
The Slaney Writers adult writing club meets in Enniscorthy Library on the second Thursday of every month at 6.30pm. The next meeting will be on Thursday, 13th November, 6.30pm8pm.
New members are always welcome, so if you are interested in going along please contact Enniscorthy Library on 053 9236055. n
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.
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.”
Director Andy Crook has worked with performer Jed Murray across multiple past projects, including The Sailor’s
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
Dream by Jack Harte and Becoming Maggie by Donagh Humphrey.
The maestro makes a welcome visit to Wexford
The maestro that is Freddie White has long been synonymous with music of the highest quality. He has been part of the fabric of the live music scene in Ireland since the 1970s and his albums continue to sell well, amongst his loyal and newfound fan base. Born in Cobh, Co. Cork, into a musical family, by age 17 he was playing professionally. At 19, he moved to London, were he busked in subways, and developed his unique voice and guitar style. His earliest recordings, which were re-mastered and re-released in 2004, are still hugely popular.
“The sparse and haunting ‘Live on Tour’ is still among the greatest Irish albums of all time. ‘Do You Do’ swings and struts just as profoundly. Imagine those two cuts of vinyl made decades ago, they still stand as perfection.” (Irish Times).
In 1974 he was a founding member of ‘Scullion’, together with Philip King and Sonny Condell. Later he formed ‘The Fake’, regarded as one of the seminal Irish bands of the late ‘70s. Next came The Freddie White Band formed in 1978, which toured with Eric Clapton that year.
His first album, ‘Live on Tour’, recorded by Nicky Ryan while touring with Clannad, brought him national attention. His second album, ‘Do You Do’, was the biggest selling Mulligan Label album of 1981. With these early albums, Freddie introduced an eclectic repertoire of music, which spanned musical genres and eras, to an Irish audience.
‘Long Distance Runner’ was launched in 1985, and it featured original songs such as ‘Goodbye This Time’, ‘Down Without A Fight’, and the hit single ‘Frozen Heart’, which was co-written with Johnny Duhan. His fourth album, ‘Close To You’ continued this trend, with most of the songs self-penned. In 1994, he released ‘Straight Up’, a collection of fourteen songs recorded live by DanDan Fitzgerald.
‘My Country’ was released in Ireland in May 1999. A collection of eleven songs co-written with Ann O’Sullivan and based on the poetry of Don O’Sullivan. The album was co-produced by Freddie and Declan Sinnott, renowned for his work as producer and arranger with Sinead Lohan, Frances Black and Mary Black and as lead guitarist with Horslips and Moving Hearts.
In May 2002 the 2-CD set ‘Lost and Found’ was released, comprising digitally re-mastered versions of two of Freddie's best-selling early albums, albums, namely, ‘Live on Tour’ and ‘Do You Do’, under the watchful eye of original producer PJ Curtis. The re-release was warmly welcomed not only by the many whose original vinyl copies had long since worn out, but also by those who delighted in discovering these classic recordings.
In 2004, Freddie White returned to Ireland after many years living in the USA and released an all-new studio album entitled ‘Four Days in May’. Recorded in Dublin with some of Ireland's finest musicians over a four-day period, it showcases Freddie's songwriting prowess and unerring choice of songs worthy of remarkable reinterpretation. Since then he has toured regularly and also dedicated himself to the development of his latest recording, collaborating with songwriters Jimmy MacCarthy and Jim Barrett. Released in 2008, ‘Stormy Lullaby’ is a stunning collection of moody tracks in which Freddie White’s musicianship and voice shine through. He has once again teamed up with his old cohort DanDan Fitzgerald to produce this gem. The album has an acoustic feel thanks to the input of a small, tight group of musicians from his native Cork.
Some tracks are newly written, while others (not previously recorded by Freddie) have proven their worth by becoming firm favourites with his live audiences. It showcases what Freddie does best – that is ‘get inside’ and deliver heartrending, troubled love songs in a manner guaranteed to stop you in your tracks. It is often said of Freddie that he does not merely ‘cover’ great songs; more often than not he improves on the originals. Indeed, if this were not the case, he would surely be more highly revered for his own songwriting accomplishments.
His keen ear for quality songs, undisputed talent for interpretation and exemplary songwriting skills, stand out in his most intimate offering. Freddie's album, ‘Here With You’ released in April 2012 introduced Trish Hickey and is a collection of songs from some of their favourite writers.
The next album was recorded in Ireland and Australia entitled “Prodigal Songs” and is a collection of songs about the power of love, the power of music, an observation on the history of Ireland over the last 100 years… and one song about a certain dog, and with a healthy inclusion of some rare covers. Freddie released his 14th album ‘One Heart Beating’ in 2018.
Freddie moved to Sydney, Australia, in March 2011 but continued to tour Ireland and the UK regularly. He then resided in New York City for a few years and has now returned to Ireland.
Freddie’s performance will feature new songs along with his classics from his 40-year career as a principal in the orchestra of Irish folk and rock music.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGSJCMJGwik&feature=you tu.be n
Step into a Magical Santa Wonderland at Johnstown Castle
This Christmas, Johnstown Castle in County Wexford invites families to step into a world of festive wonder, where centuries of history meet sparkling seasonal magic. The stunning Gothic-revival castle, with its majestic turrets and grand façade, is set within sweeping gardens and woodlands, creating a breathtaking approach that sets the scene for an unforgettable seasonal adventure. As you walk along the winding paths towards the castle, the twinkle of lights and the scent of pine and festive treats transport visitors into a true winter wonderland.
FAMILIES CAN ENJOY TWO UNIQUE WAYS TO MEET SANTA:
The shared Enchanted Christmas Experience offers a joyful celebration alongside other families. During this 45-minute visit, children wander through beautifully decorated rooms filled with twinkling lights, meet Mrs Claus, create handcrafted treasures with Santa’s elves, and enjoy a magical encounter with Santa himself. Each child selects a special gift from Santa’s Workshop, and professional photography options are available to capture these treasured moments. Tickets include a hot beverage for adults and children, a sweet treat for every child, and range from €10 for infants, €30 for children over 12 months, and €18 for adults.
For families seeking a more intimate celebration, the Exclusive Enchanted Christmas Experience allows you to enjoy the castle’s festive magic entirely on your own. From personalised time with Santa to heartwarming moments with Mrs Claus and joyful crafts with the elves, every detail of this 45-minute visit is designed to create lasting memories in a setting that feels both historic and magical.
All Christmas events at Johnstown Castle, Estate Museum & Gardens support the Irish Heritage Trust’s mission to preserve and share Ireland’s historic houses, gardens, and cultural heritage.
Irish Heritage Trust membership is available, and members receive a 10 per cent discount on bookings, and gift cards are available for memorable experiences at Johnstown Castle, Fota House and Gardens in Cork, and Strokestown Park / National Famine Museum in Roscommon.
For more information or to book your Enchanted Christmas Experience, visit Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens, Y35 HP22, or contact the team directly on 053 9184671. info@johnstowncastle.ie www.johnstowncastle.ie n
Live at Wexford Arts Centre...
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 now. Check out social media: @enniscorthypanto and website https://enniscorthypanto.wordpress.com/ n
The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely
New drawing captures a particular place and time in Enniscorthy
Enniscorthy woman Annette Brennan has captured a particular place and time in Enniscorthy’s modern history. The year was 1969 and Enniscorthy was the film location for a major movie called ‘Underground’.
The ancestral home of the Bolger family at 65 Irish Street, which is now part of Dunnes Stores, was a central location in the movie. Annette has now expertly captured the transformed building in her pencil drawing, and Tony Murray (https://www.tonygmurray.com/) has professionally photographed the drawing and produced 25 superb quality prints on museum-grade archival paper designed to last decades without fading.
If interested in buying one of these fabulous limited-edition, double-mounted prints, which cost €75, please contact Annette on 087 2161668. n
Art and Arias at Wexford Fest
Words
& pics by Maria Nolan
Yes, its art and arias on our doorstep as Wexford Festival Opera explodes into a kaleidoscope of all things cultural and magical for this year’s annual extravaganza.
Launched by Artistic Director Rosetta Cucchi, the 74th Wexford Festival sparked into life with a magnificent display of fireworks lighting up the Quay as thousands gathered for the official opening on Friday 17th October.
With something for everyone – operas, lunchtime recitals, art exhibitions, the Speigletent with its splendid array of musical talent, literary evenings, historic walks and tours, I endeavour each year to attend at some of my favourite events that have been giving me the essence of Wexford Festival Opera for decades.
The Antique Fair at the Talbot Hotel has been a long time classic of the Festival and one that I make it my business to attend every year. This treasure trove, this Aladdin’s Cave, never fails to fascinate me and my home is dotted with many cherished pieces that I have purchased there over the years.
Wexford Opera Antique Fair has been running for the past 50 years and with more than 20 dealers from all over Ireland showcasing antique jewellery, silver, glass, china, and vintage clothing, it is a must see.
One of my all-time favourite artists exhibits at the Talbot Hotel and I paid my annual call to catch up on her beautiful art and her amusing titles – Jacinta Crowley Long is one of the most excellent animal portrait artists in the country giving each of her subjects its own personality that shines through her paintings.
Lar Joyce, another favourite artist of mine, exhibiting at the Talbot Hotel – his atmospheric piece, the old bridge at Enniscorthy, stole my heart.
I was fortunate this year to obtain a ticket for the Pocket Opera – The Dwarf – a one-act opera composed by Alexander von Zemlinsky.
This wonderful innovation is a credit to the Festival with pocket operas and community opera available mornings and afternoons at very affordable prices making opera accessible to all.
Left: Lar Joyce paintings, including the atmospheric piece – the old bridge at Enniscorthy, on display at the Talbot Hotel.
Right: The work of Jacinta Crowley Long – one of the most excellent animal portrait artists in the country.
Below: Maria meets up with Maura Bell at the Antique Fair at the Talbot Hotel.
The Dwarf based on Oscar Wilde’s short story The Birthday of the Infanta, tells the story of a dwarf who falls in love with a princess and is driven to despair when he sees his own reflection for the first time and realises he is nothing more than her plaything and her affection for him was nothing but cruel amusement for her and her ladies in waiting, leading him to tragically take his own life.
Powerful voices, exquisite costumes, and set, effective lighting, a most excellent performance receiving a well-deserved standing ovation.
Whites Hotel has a plethora of artists and craft makers from all over Wexford and beyond showcasing their work in every nook and cranny and is the perfect venue to sit over coffee or lunch to view and discuss the myriad of talents on display.
I was intrigued by the work of artists Michelle O’Neill and Jean Maskell located in the foyer. These creative women are using their amazing talent in a variety of art forms, with paintings on tee-shirts and sweatshirts, on fridge magnets,
tival Opera
postcards, bookmarks, ceramics, and in book form.
You name it and they are already doing it and to great effect, as it all works remarkably well making their beautiful creations affordable for everyone.
And besides which they are two lovely women to chat with, Michelle – retired World Cup Referee, and Jean who lives in Liverpool telling me all about the artist Sam Walsh from Enniscorthy who moved there in the 1960s socialising in Beatles circles and creating a portrait of Paul McCartney which is on display there.
Perhaps, it’s time Enniscorthy laid its claim to this very famous artist, watch this space!
Just a very small smattering of all that was on offer at the 74th Wexford Festival Opera, a jewel in the crown of Wexford and the South East. n
Wexford Festival Opera happenings:
Above: Pocket opera –‘The Dwarf’ –a one-act opera composed by Alexander von Zemlinsky.
Above left: Artist Michelle O’Neill.
Left: Anne Gilpin and Maria Nolan showing some of the apparel printed by artist Michelle O’Neill.
Right: Maria and Anne with artist Jean Maskell.
Making connections
Creative Places Enniscorthy is continuing its 'Connection Series’. Based on feedback it received from artists, the ground group is organising a programme which includes a monthly morning meeting at The Presentation Arts Centre, also some pop-up evening sessions.
A session was held on 21 October in The Presentation Arts Centre with Lucy Medlycott who spoke about building a network. Further dates for your diary for the main monthly morning meetings at The Presentation 10am-12pm are:
Friday 21 November – Karla Sanchez will be talking about funding and tips and insight into applications for artists.
Friday 12 December – A conversation about socially engaged art with artist Vanya Lambrecht-Ward and community rep Billy Murphy.
Pop Up – Creative Sessions
The Ground Group has also organised some evening pop-up creative sessions:
Thursday 23 October 7pm-8pm – Drawing.
November, date to be confirmed – Writing / mentoring session.
Keep an eye out on the Creative Places Enniscorthy social media pages for details of all the meet-ups. n
Wexford Lions Club Exhibition 2026
The submission period for the annual open submission exhibition in Wexford Arts Centre, in association with Wexford Lions Club, is now open and canvases and watercolour boards are available to purchase at the Wexford Arts Centre Box Office.
Submissions are invited from local artists and anyone with an interest in art regardless of their level of skill or previous experience. It costs €12 per entry, limited to one per person. Contact the Box Office at 053 912 3764 or visit wexfordartscentre.ie for more information.
Background:
Wexford Lions Club has served and provided support to the community of Wexford since 1979. This support may be monetary or assisting in community projects such as The Trabolgan
Holiday Project, The Message in a Bottle Project, and the Carer's Weekend Project where carers are treated to a weekend in Ballyvaloo Centre and are provided with counsellors, reflexologists, and motivational speakers.
The annual Wexford Lions Club Exhibition celebrates local talent and offers a platform for artists who are at various stages of their careers as well as those with an interest in art who wish to see their work realised within a gallery context. For this reason, it is an important show within the Wexford Arts Centre’s visual art programme. The exhibition will be on view in the lower and upper galleries of Wexford Arts Centre in early 2026.
Interested persons can purchase canvases and watercolour boards from box office at the Wexford Arts Centre. Please note that places are limited and you must purchase your canvas or board to secure your submission. n
Connection session on 21 October in The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, with Lucy Medlycott.
Unusual name; unusual artist
Francis Scattergood, born in Dublin and now living in Wexford, artist, musician, composer, launched his new solo exhibition Drawings From the Kitchen Table at The Presentation Arts Centre on Saturday afternoon, 25th October, and the large attendance is testament to the esteem in which Scattergood’s art is held.
Introduced by Gallery Curator Lisa Byrne who applauded his work saying, ‘Francis Scattergood’s art speaks to the human condition – exploring how we confront our existence and mortality while striving to hold on to the innocence and wonder of life.’
Francis Scattergood’s series of graphite and pencil works blend humour with darkness, and innocence with experience.
The title for the exhibition is spot on, you can visualise Scattergood doodling the thoughts that come into his head at the kitchen table as he reflects on everyday life, capturing themes of vulnerability, aging, aloneness, hope and optimism.
There is a tremendous freedom in his art, as his mind and pencil wander exploring how we confront our existence and mortality while striving to hold on to the innocence and wonder of life.
Volunteer of the Year
Wexford Festival Opera has announced Davy Lynch as the 2025 Ecclesiastical/ Wexford Festival Opera Volunteer of the Year. Davy was chosen through a public vote by fellow volunteers, board, and staff of the Festival.
Davy joined Wexford Festival Opera as one of three drivers in 1991 and now leads the festival’s team of voluntary drivers. Davy always greets everybody with a big smile and has a no-task-is-too-difficult attitude and is a hugely popular member of the volunteer family. n
Words and pics by Maria Nolan
The exhibition which runs to 13th December was opened by Scattergood’s friend and former band companion back in the day, musician Niall Toner who said, ‘I don’t pretend to know too much about art, but as with music I know what I like and I very much like what I see in Francis’ work.’
Oh, and don’t forget Francis, I’m looking forward to the next piece titled The Man that Scattered the Bricks. n
Above right: Artist Francis Scattergood with Lisa Byrne, Visual Arts Manager, The Presentation Arts Centre.
Right: Maria Nolan with exhibition attendees.
L-R: Niall Toner who opened the exhibition and artist Francis Scattergood.
Davy Lynch, third from left. Pic by Patrick Browne.
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
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 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 intru-
sion 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 is situated in the County Buildings and runs from Monday, 13th October, to Friday, 21st November, 2025. n
SIREN
A SOLO EXHIBITION BY URSULA BURKE – CURATED BY AOIFE RUANE RUN IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE HIGHLANES GALLERY
WEXFORD ARTS CENTRE – 11TH OCTOBER – 6TH DECEMBER 2025
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 epigenetics, 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. n
Above left: Breast Cup, 2025, jacquard tapestry, 203 x 152cm. Above right: Busted Nose, 2024, mosaic glass and custom mahogany frame, 58 x 37cm.
ooted in exford
October saw gardens across the country shift into their autumn flow. We cleared away spent crops, harvested the last pumpkins, and made good use of fallen leaves for compost and mulch. Many gardeners turned to their greenhouses and polytunnels to keep crops ticking along as the weather cooled. Now, as November arrives, the focus turns towards protecting what remains, nourishing the soil, and quietly preparing for the seasons ahead.
November is a slower month in the garden, but far from idle. It is about tidying, strengthening, and planning. Sometimes this work may not be as lively as summer planting but is just as important. With the right care now, you can ensure that your garden rests well over winter and bursts back to life when spring returns.
Brussels sprouts are one of the stars of the season. These hardy vegetables thrive in the cold, but their tall stems can easily topple in strong winds. To keep them upright, secure each plant with a sturdy cane or wooden stake. The first
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.
frost will actually sweeten the sprouts, so it’s worth taking the time to protect them and enjoy their best flavour later on.
If you still have summer plants lingering, now is the moment to clear them away. Old tomato or pepper plants can harbour pests or diseases that will linger in the soil. Compost anything that looks healthy and dispose of diseased leaves and plants separately. This is also the perfect time to collect seeds from your favourite plants. Saving seed not only reduces costs but ensures you carry forward varieties that performed well in your own garden.
For gardeners who like to keep beds productive through winter, November is a great month to sow hardy crops such as broad beans and peas. These cool-season favourites will germinate in mild soil and rest quietly through the colder months before spring growth takes off. Choose a sheltered, sunny spot with good drainage, and sow your seeds a few centimetres deep. To protect them from birds and mice, consider covering the area with a layer of netting or mesh
until the seedlings establish. Garlic planting also takes centre stage this month. Separate the bulbs into individual cloves, and plant them with the pointed end up, around fifteen centimetres apart. Choose a sunny spot and cover with a layer of mulch to insulate the soil. Garlic is hardy and undemanding, but it appreciates good drainage and steady moisture. By next summer, you’ll have a generous crop ready for harvesting.
Though much of the garden is winding down, November is a fine time to plan for a burst of spring colour. Plant bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths now so that they have time to root before winter sets in. Follow the depth instructions on the packet and water them well after planting. Once spring arrives, these bulbs will reward you with bright, cheerful blooms that lift the garden after the grey of winter.
Composting remains an important task. Fallen leaves are plentiful now and can be put to good use. Mix them into your compost pile or store them in a separate heap to
create leaf mould, a rich material that improves soil structure and helps retain moisture. It may take a year or more to break down fully, but the result is worth the wait.
November brings a calm, reflective pace to gardening. The jobs may be slower, but they are meaningful. Tidying, planting, and protecting the soil all contribute to a thriving garden next year. There’s something grounding about working outdoors on a crisp day, knowing that every small effort now lays the foundation for seasons to come.
So wrap up warm, enjoy the peace of the quieter garden, and take satisfaction in the steady rhythm of the year’s cycle. The garden may rest through winter, but the gardener’s care never truly stops.
For more gardening tips and a glimpse into my own garden, follow me on Instagram @rootedinwexford, where I share updates, ideas, and plenty of lessons learned along the way. n
WEXFORD CHEF NAMED YOUNG CHEF OF THE YEAR
On Sunday, October 12th, at the InterContinental Hotel in Dublin, David Harte from The Sea Rooms at Kelly's Resort Hotel, was crowned EuroToques Young Chef of the Year 2025, presented by La Rousse Foods.
Mentored by Chris Fulham, David Harte impressed the judges at the prestigious competition finale with two outstanding dishes (see photos) that celebrated the very best of Irish produce.
David was challenged to create two original dishes featuring rack and belly of pork from Winetavern Farm (Co. Wicklow), heritage potatoes from Ballymakenny Farm (Co. Louth), and Sissy Red Irish apples from The Apple Farm (Co. Tipperary) – ingredients chosen to reflect Ireland’s rich regional larder.
The elite judging panel featured Michelin-starred chefs such as Mark Donald (The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant, Scotland), Christina Blevins (Row on 5, London), and John Kelly (Lady Helen Restaurant, Mount Juliet), alongside Euro-toques Ireland’s Gareth Mullins (Anantara The Marker, Dublin), Conor Halpenny (Square), and Domini Kemp (Lottie’s).
This year’s theme, “Forgotten Foods: Honouring Ireland’s Larder,” invited young chefs to reconnect with Ireland’s
rich culinary heritage by rediscovering ingredients, skills, and traditions that have been overlooked or nearly lost. It was a call to slow down, to cook with intent, and to look to Ireland’s fields, waters, and pastures for inspiration. At its heart, the theme embodies the Euro-Toques ethos: respect for Irish food culture, a commitment to sustainability, and creativity that carries tradition forward into the future. The finalists were judged across three key areas: execution and work practice, taste and flavour, and presentation.
www.euro-toques.ie n
course of
farm pork, potato cake, black pudding, cauliflower, blackberry, black garlic, a side dish of Mayan gold, cabbage, buttermilk, and a dessert of Sissy red apples, skyr, honey, oats, showcasing remarkable flair, creativity, and execution.
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
David Harte impressed the judges with a standout main
Winetavern
TWO WEXFORD BUSINESSES WIN BIG IN THIS YEAR'S GEORGINA CAMPBELL AWARDS
Celebrating Ireland’s gold standard champions of the food and hospitality industries, the winners of the Georgina Campbell Food & Hospitality Awards 2025 were announced at a gala lunch at the InterContinental Dublin Hotel last month.
Best Preserves 2025: Killiane Castle Honey, Killiane, Co. Wexford (pictured above left). Gastro Pub of the Year 2025: The Strand, Cahore, Co. Wexford (pictured above right).
Ireland’s longest running food and hospitality awards, the annual Georgina Campbell Irish Food & Hospitality Awards were established by the well known food writer in the 1990s, with the aim of giving recognition where it is deserved across a broad range of destinations and lead customers – both Irish and visitors – to genuinely hospitable experiences where they will enjoy great food that ‘speaks of the real Ireland’.
Businesses cannot enter themselves for these awards, which are based solely on independent assessments by a team of experts, who book anonymously and pay their bills like any other guest.
GASTRO-PUB OF THE YEAR 2025:
The Strand Cahore, Gorey, Co. Wexford
Dating back to 1893 and the only pub in Cahore, The Strand is in a spectacular setting overlooking the beach and pier at Cahore Point, with sweeping views north to Wicklow Head. Having been run by the Horgan family for almost eighty years, Aileen and Patrick Hanley took it over in 2018, fulfilling a long-held ambition for the hospitality duo. With backgrounds at the Park Hotel Kenmare and Eccles Hotel Glengarriff, the Hanleys have brought a wealth of experience to this historic property, turning it into one of the country’s most exciting food pubs. And with its large windows and outdoor terraces to make the most of fine days, a cosy bar with a glowing stove and an elegant restaurant at the back providing comfort on cooler evenings, The Strand is a place for all seasons. Menus showcase the best of Irish produce, with suppliers proudly named, breads and sauces made daily in-house, and a reputation for superb seafood was quickly established. From moules marinière and Cahore Smokies to Kilmore Quay lobster, the cooking is generous, fresh and full of flavour, while Macamore Buffalo brings a distinctive local speciality. With its sense of place, outstanding food and warm, professional hospitality, The Strand Cahore is a shining example of the modern Irish gastropub – and a must-visit destination when in Wexford.
PRESERVES & HONEY:
Killiane Castle Honey, Killiane, Co. Wexford
In the fields and woodlands surrounding Killiane Castle in Wexford, Ian Mernagh runs a project rooted in heritage, nature and craftsmanship. Killiane Castle Honey began in 2015, when Ian first installed a pair of hives; since then the operation has grown to dozens of hives spread across the farm and wild apiaries.
The bees are largely native Irish honey bees, bred with care for genetic purity, and Killiane’s delicious honey, which reflects the seasons, is kept raw and unfiltered, and produced in small batches to preserve flavour and aroma. Softset honey and summer blossom honey are among the flagship products, along with other varieties that capture the character of the seasons and terrain. Beyond the jar, Ian Mernagh and his family have built their honey business around sustainability, education, and community. Tours and apiary visits connect people to the bees and to the land. Through their company
All About Nectar, beeswax, salves, and other bee-by-products are also part of the offering, as are efforts to maintain environmental balance and support pollinators. Pure, flavourful, and deeply rooted in place, it is available online and locally, including from Killiane Castle Country House which is run by other family members. More than just a sweet treat, Killiane Castle Honey it is an example of natural food done right. n
Lots on at the Allotments
Top two photos: Chair yoga. Above two photos: The new mural at the Allotments, pic: Grianán Media. Below: The Little Buds had a fantastic spooktacular afternoon in the Allotments for their Halloween Party.
For November:
Protect frost sensitive plants with fleece.
Prepare beds for spring. Add nutrients back into to the soil by adding compost, green manure, or well-rotted farmyard manure to the soil. This gives the compost, manure a chance to break down over winter.
You can also now plant your overwintering crops, hardy root vegetables such as carrots and radishes, greens such as spinach and kale and leeks.
Clean out your Polytunnel and Greenhouse.
ECA
Gardening Tips...
Don’t forget to feed the birds and keep birdbaths topped up with water. n
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...
Everyone is busy here in the allotments harvesting the last of their tomatoes, weeding and preparing their spaces for the next growing season.
We were absolutely thrilled to be appointed a Community Educational Horticulturist by WWETB for four hours every week. This gives our members and the wider community access to free horticulture workshops here in the allotments. These workshops are a brilliant opportunity to learn, grow, connect with nature and meet new people. The first of the workshops kicked off with the course participants learning all about seed saving. Thanks to WWETB for supporting this great initiative.
A huge congratulations to our members who graduated last month with their full certificate QQI level 4 in Horticulture. This is a massive achievement for them all. Thank you to Mairead Dunne, tutor, and WWETB for providing the course.
We were delighted to support Wexford County Council and Age friendly Wexford by having two chair yoga workshops
Healthy living for everyday life
healthy eating
Tuesday, 11th November, at 10.30am-12pm, in Enniscorthy Library.
A simple Guide to Healthy Eating including top tips for all ages from Laura Roche, Senior HSE Dietician. Booking is essential but currently there are no seats available. A waiting list is in operation. Please add your name using the link below: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/4420832 n
with Hazel for Positive Ageing week. We had great feedback from both these workshops, both groups thoroughly enjoyed them. The Dome was the perfect setting, very relaxing.
The mural on the back of the shed is now finished and it looks absolutely amazing. Thanks to both groups that took part, they all really enjoyed getting their creative juices flowing and found the project to be very therapeutic. Thanks to artist Ilaria Berardi for leading the project. We are now looking forward to work starting on the Willow Dome this month which is also being done as part of the fabulous Oak Tree Project. The Willow Dome will be completed by the very talented Sindy Offer. Many thanks to Deryn O’Callaghan, Wexford County Council, for supporting the whole project. We cannot wait to see it all completed, it will be another fabulous addition to the peaceful oasis we have here.
Our Little Buds had a fantastic spooktacular afternoon in the allotments for their Halloween Party. They loved carving pumpkins, making bat decorations, and playing a game of mummy wrap. They all looked amazing dressed up in their Halloween costumes. It was brilliant to see all their happy faces enjoying the activities and making lifelong memories here in the allotments. n
WEXFORD PRODUCERS SHINE AT BLAS NA hÉIREANN AWARDS
Wexford is celebrating the results of the 2025 Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards with 31 awards going to the Model County. The 2025 Awards, hosted from 2nd to 5th October in Dingle, Co. Kerry, are now in their 18th year and firmly established as the largest and most influential food awards on the island of Ireland.
The winners from Co. Wexford were ABP Irish Country Meats, Tirlán, Killowen Farm, Zanna Cookhouse Ltd, Ryans Bakery Wexford Ltd, Zaeire Artisan Chocolates, Killiane Castle Honey, Well Preserved Limited with Mór Taste, Elderberry Farm Produce, Stable Diet, Naturally Cordial Ltd, Eurospar Bunclody, Stafford’s Irish Bakeries, and Bean and Goose, with Zanna Cookhouse awarded ‘Best in County’ sponsored by Wexford Local Enterprise Office.
Blas na hÉireann is open to all 32 counties across the island of Ireland and judging took place earlier this year in June and July in partnership with UCC. Finalists were announced in mid-August. There
were over 3,000 entries across more than 180 categories with many new producers entering the awards for the first time this year, reflecting the strength and diversity of Irish food and drink. Food Producers entered products from every county in Ireland to compete for bronze, silver and gold awards. As the competition intensifies each year, earning the prestigious Blas accreditation is a significant accomplishment, signifying that the shortlisted finalists and eventual winners represent the pinnacle of excellence in Irish food and drink.
Speaking about the importance of the Blas na hEireann Irish Food Awards, Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at Wexford County Council said: “We are immensely proud to see Wexford food and drink producers recognised once again at the Blas na hÉireann Awards. These accolades are a testament not only to the outstanding quality of produce coming from our county, but also to the dedication, creativ-
ity, and hard work of the entrepreneurs behind these products. The Blas awards provide a vital independent benchmark of excellence in the Irish food and drink sector, and we commend the organisers for their continued commitment to celebrating and supporting the best of Irish produce.”
Speaking about the success of the 2025 Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards for Wexford, Chairperson of the Wexford Food Producers Network Paul Kehoe said: “It has been a truly incredible result for Wexford this year at the 2025 Blas na hÉireann Awards with eighteen Wexford food producers being selected as finalists for these nationally recognised awards. This is a remarkable result and a true testament to the dedication and commitment of Wexford’s food and beverage production sector who work tirelessly to produce quality foods each year. On behalf of the Wexford Food Producers Network, we would like to extend our warmest congratulations to all of the Wexford winners this year, and we wish them all continued success.”
Above left: Clodagh Davis of Naturally Cordial, winning Bronze, Silver and Gold, with John Sheehy (Blas na hÉireann), and Sponsor Maria Svejdar, GS1 Ireland. Above right: Zanna Cookhouse, winners of the Best in County Award, David Mullins, Lorna Mullins, Owen Mullins, Annette Rowsome (Wexford Local Enterprise Office) and Artie Clifford (Blas na hÉireann). Pics: Robbie Reynolds Photography.
Above left: Bronze, Silver and Gold Winner ABP Irish Country Meats, Co. Wexford, Artie Clifford (Blas na hÉireann, left) with Rob Farrell (Aldi), Brian Fraser, Taldatap Sarinn and Sponsor from Total Food Machines. Above right: Bronze, Silver and Gold Winner ABP Irish Country Meats, Co. Wexford, Artie Clifford (Blas na hÉireann, left), Carlos Sarsaran, Emma Harnay and Sponsor from Total Food Machines. Pics: Robbie Reynolds Photography.
The Wexford Food Producers Network provides a centralised member led and member representative organisation with a core remit to promote and support the business of Wexford food. The organisation has approximately fifty members who are Wexford based sole traders, SMEs and large companies. Their continued aim is to support Wexford food producers, to build a sustainable food industry, and to contribute significantly to the Irish economy on a local, regional, national and international level through the export markets.
Blas na hÉireann 2025 saw the return of the Blas Village and the Wexford Food Producers Network hosted a ‘Wexford’ Stand in the ‘Eat Ireland in a Day’ marquee supported by Local Enterprise Office Wexford, where this year’s Wexford finalists got the opportunity to showcase
Left: Gold, Silver and Bronze Winner Killowen Farm, Co. Wexford, Artie Clifford, (Blas na hÉireann, left) with Sinead Lenihan, Mary Dunne, Pauline Dunne and Sponsor from Cross Rental Services.
their products, engage with key food industry buyers and meet new customers over the weekend with Dingle Food Festival visitors attending on Saturday and Sunday.
Wexford’s leading food producer ladies Clodagh Davis, Naturally Cordial, Grainne Keneally Quirke, Elderberry Farm, and Catherine Kinsella, Saltrock Dairy, featured live on stage at the Meet the Maker –‘Wexford Wonders’ discussion panel moderated by Blas Supreme Champion Anthony O’Toole.
Sustainability once again remained a key focus, with the event continuing to build on its waste-free commitments and support a more conscious future for Irish food.
The Wexford Food Producers Network is recognised and supported by Wexford Co.
Left: Bronze Winner Eurospar Bunclody, Co. Wexford, Fallon Moore (Blas Na hÉireann) with Caroline Raleigh, Patrick Rooney, Aiden Cronin (Sponsor) from Andrew Ingredients.
Above right: Bronze Winner
Killiane Castle Honey, Co. Wexford, Artie Clifford (Blas Na hÉireann) with Ian Mernagh, Marie Mernagh, and Darren Burke (Sponsor), Alert Packaging.
Left:
Winner of Gold, McNiffe’s, Co. Wexford, David Chandler sponsor from Blenders with Detta McNiffe, Michéal (Jnr & Snr ) and Artie Clifford, Blas na hÉireann
Council, Wexford Local Enterprise Office, and Wexford Local Development. The Wexford Food Producers Network engages with the Dept of Agriculture, Food & The Marine and with national agencies Bord Bia, Bord Iascaigh Mhara, Ornua –The Irish Dairy Board and Fáilte Ireland on various important issues for the Irish Food & Drinks sector. n
Above right: Gold Winner Zaeire Artisan Chocolate, Co. Wexford, John Sheehy (Blas na hÉireann), Leigh Kelly, and sponsor David Byrne, Alert Packaging. Below right: Bronze Winner Elderberry Farm, Co. Wexford, Artie Clifford (Blas Na hEireann), Aine Dowling, and Darren Burke from sponsor Alert Packaging. Pics: Robbie Reynolds Photography.
Above: Bronze Winner, Mor Taste, Co. Wexford, John Sheehy (Blas na hÉireann), Felix Oster, and sponsor David Byrne (Alert Packaging). Pics: Robbie Reynolds Photography.
Origin Green gold for magnificent seven
Seven Wexford companies have been recognised for their exemplary sustainability performance and awarded Origin Green Gold Membership for 2025 – Sofrimar, Killowen Farm, Regan Organic Produce, Trudies Catering Kitchen Ltd, Greenhill Fruit Farm Ltd, Slaney Farms Produce Ltd, Irish Country Meats
Gold Membership is awarded to Origin Green verified companies if they make significant improvements in their sustainability target areas. Target areas can include raw material sourcing, water and energy efficiency, emissions, waste reductions, packaging, and social sustainability.
The Gold Members were formally acknowledged at Bord Bia’s annual Origin Green Sustainability Seminar last month which was addressed by Noel Grealish TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
This year’s 136 Gold Membership companies come from 26 counties across Ireland and represent sectors including dairy, meat, seafood and aquaculture, grocery, bakery and confectionary, beverages, and horticulture.
Seven companies from Wexford have been awarded Gold Member status this year, underscoring the huge strength of the food and drink sector in Wexford.
Just over three-quarters of the overall Gold Member companies are small or medium-sized enterprises, while one quarter are large firms. This year, 17% of the companies were first time recipients of Gold Membership.
Martin Hofler, Senior Sustainability Manager, Origin Green at Bord Bia, said: “Every year, Origin Green raises the threshold to meet Gold Membership status in order to help drive continuous change and improvement across the Irish food sector. The record 136 companies awarded Gold Membership this year underscores the huge desire of the Irish food and drink sector to future-proof their business as they continue to increase their sustainability actions.
“By formally acknowledging the efforts and performance of these 136 outstanding food and drink companies, we are not just rewarding sustainability, but also fundamental business changes and improvements that will be a key driver to their long-term success. We’re also very conscious that these annual awards inspire other companies to make their own changes, to both improve the environment, and also to set their business on the right path. I would like to congratulate all 136 Gold Members and I look forward to seeing them continue to prosper and to champion sustainability in the coming years.”
Addressing the Sustainability Seminar, Jim O’Toole, CEO of Bord Bia, said: “I’m delighted to see a record number of companies achieving Gold Membership today, as it shows their stronglyheld commitment to setting and meeting key sustainability targets.
“But it is also important to remember that these efforts are not just about meeting targets, they are about creat-
ing real value. Value for customers, value for employees and value for suppliers. Because sustainability is no longer a peripheral concern, it is a central driver of business resilience, innovation, and long-term success.
Sustainability is non-negotiable, it should be embedded into the DNA of every Irish food and drink business.
“We see Origin Green member companies innovating in their packaging, rethinking their energy use, collaborating with farmers, and investing in circular economy models. We see leadership in action, not just in boardrooms, but on factory floors, in fields, and across supply chains. And we see a shared commitment from Origin Green members to doing better, year after year.
“Ireland’s food and drink sector is committed to playing its part in tackling the climate and biodiversity challenge we all face. Since it was introduced 13 years ago, Origin Green has provided a robust framework for companies to measure, improve, and report on their sustainability performance. But more than that, it has fostered a culture of continuous improvement.
“Bord Bia remains deeply committed to evolving Origin Green to meet the needs of our members and also the challenges of the future. We will continue to provide the tools, the insights, and the partnerships that enable Irish food and drink businesses to lead globally in sustainable production.” n
Caitriona Barron from Drinagh, Wexford, grew up on her dad’s farm with plentiful homegrown veg and their own meat so “we really knew the value of good food. My mother started a seafood business after meeting my stepfather fisherman, my brother now runs the seafood business so I’m well used to fresh food.”
“I worked with the family business before leaving to be a stay-at-home mother but soon got bored (lol!) and started taking pics of my food, sharing my recipes on social media. When people started showing interest, I realised this could be a job so I bought myself a camera and threw myself in the deep of it. I love it and I get to work with amazing companies. Seeing my pictures in magazines, in shops, and occasionally on TV is pretty amazing.
“I’m a mother of two boys and, yes, juggling it all can be very tough. But I keep it going as it’s my passion now and it’s very rewarding.”
https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted and Caitriona_barron on insta n
IRISH COLCANNON SERVES 4
450g floury potatoes cut into chunks
60g butter and extra butter for serving to taste
150ml single cream
6 cabbage leaves shredded
6 spring onions chopped or one leek washed and chopped
Salt and white pepper
Parsley and more spring onions for garnish
Method:
Cook potatoes in salted water until tender
Mash with butter set aside
Add cabbage to a pan with just enough water to cover, cook for 2 mins until soft, drain thoroughly
Heat spring onions and cream
Add cabbage to potatoes mix then add your hot cream onion mix, season to taste.
Serve and enjoy. n
https://www.facebook.com/triedtestedtasted
Caitriona Barron
Enniscorthy’s Digital Retail Village
Wexford Co. Council with Enniscorthy Municipal District is piloting a Digital Retail Village (DRV) to help local retailers sell online with Click & Collect and local home delivery (free within 3km). Why join?
• Your store on a shared town marketplace with click & collect and local delivery provided and managed – Free delivery up to 3 km.
• No percentage commissions – protect your margins.
• Collective marketing to drive online orders and footfall.
• Town-wide digital shopfront that supports Enniscorthy’s growth.
Funding:
The first 10 suitable retailers receive 88% funding
– your initial cost is just €200 ex. VAT (55c/day). Book a brief one-to-one with Stephen Hallahan 087-6959733, stephen@tap-retail.com
For more info: Claire Lawless, Enniscorthy Municipal District, 053-9196840, emdreception@wexfordcoco.ie
Supported by Enniscorthy Town Centre First Team and County Wexford Chamber. n
Michael is appointed new manager
The Newtown Park Hotel is delighted to announce the appointment of Michael Halpin as its new General Manager.
A proud Wexford resident for more than 30 years, Michael brings a lifetime of experience in the hospitality industry to his new role. Having grown up working in his family’s bed and breakfast, Michael went on to develop his career with Irish Ferries, Whites of Wexford, and the Ferrycarrig Hotel, before joining the Newtown Park Hotel. His wealth of local knowledge and professional expertise will be instrumental in driving the hotel’s next chapter of growth.
Commenting on his appointment, Michael said: "I am extremely excited to be starting work with the Neville Park Hotel Group. I see so much potential for the Newtown Park Hotel. With the newly refurbished Courtyard Bar and the exciting menus from Executive Chef Tony Carty, this is a real asset for the people of Wex-
Michael Halpin is the new General Manager of the Newtown Park Hotel.
ford. The former leisure club has been transformed into a vibrant new health and fitness club, and it’s fantastic to see membership growing every day. The Courtyard and grounds are a hidden gem, and I want to grow this business into a vital part of the Wexford community. With 110 bedrooms, we are proud to offer visitors a truly magical experience and a warm Wexford welcome.”
Speaking about the appointment, hotel owner Colm Neville said, “Michael’s strong attributes of customer care and attention to detail together with his proven leadership skills will no doubt add greatly to the costumer’s experience throughout the hotel.”
“With deep roots in the Wexford community – having played football, soccer, and being actively involved in athletics – Michael is passionate about making the Newtown Park Hotel a welcoming destination for both locals and visitors alike.
Michael added, "I see the Newtown Park Hotel becoming a place where the community gathers – whether for coffee, family celebrations, or simply to enjoy our facilities. I look forward to welcoming everyone in the months ahead.”
The Newtown Park Hotel, part of the Neville Park Hotel Group, is one of Wexford’s leading hospitality destinations, combining modern facilities with a strong community spirit. n
Local Maxol invests €400,000
Maxol has officially reopened its Enniscorthy service station on Bellefield Road following an investment of more than €400,000. The investment has seen the Wexford site transformed into a more modern, convenience-led destination for the local community.
Checkout magazine recently reported as follows:
❝ The new-look deli now includes a Southern fried-chicken counter serving hand-breaded crispy fried chicken, while the ROSA Coffee offering now has a third machine, as well as oat drink options, to meet changing customer tastes.
A larger in-store bakery has also been introduced, featuring a bespoke display area and an extended range of fresh breads, pastries and cakes.
The store also includes a new fresh-cream-cake fridge at the deli counter.
Maxol has completely refurbished the shop floor with new flooring, ceilings, shelving, and modern illuminated signage.
Customers can now enjoy an even wider choice, thanks to an expanded chilled food-and-drink range, while the upgraded off-licence has a brighter, more contemporary look and additional refrigeration for wine and beer.
The updated seating area now includes new tiled tables and bookshelves, while the ROSA Coffee signature wall promises a welcoming environment for those who want to sit and relax.
Commenting on the reopening, Maxol Enniscorthy licensee Kevin Frayne said, “We’ve been proudly serving the Enniscorthy community and surrounding areas for over 18 years and are very much part of the fabric of this locality.
“Many of our customers are familiar faces – we know them by name, and it’s really important to us that we continue offering the best-possible service and experience.
“The feedback since reopening has been fantastic.
“Whether it’s grabbing a fresh coffee, a bite from the Maxol Deli, or picking up something from the bakery, we’re thrilled to welcome customers back through our doors.”
The upgraded site also includes indoor seating and ample parking, making it even more convenient for shoppers, commuters, and those passing through.
These works at Enniscorthy form part of Maxol’s multimillion nationwide investment programme, focused on transforming sites into convenience-led destinations.❞ n
Simplify Your Business Journey with the National Enterprise Hub (NEH)!
Finding the right support to start or grow your business shouldn't be complicated. The National Enterprise Hub offers a streamlined solution, consolidating over 250 essential resources – from grants and funding to training and expert guidance –on to one intuitive website. Whatever your business stage, NEH provides the resources you need to thrive. Discover more at www.neh.gov.ie or contact NEH for tailored assistance and further details. Your business growth starts here! Proudly supported by the Government of Ireland. n
National Women’s Enterprise Day
National Women’s Enterprise Day was held at the Talbot Hotel, Wexford, 16th October, 2025. Opened by Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise, Wexford Co. Council, the event was full of inspiring discussions, incredible speakers, and shared experiences from women leading the way in business. A fantastic, informative and empowering day! n
Above, below, and on opposite page: Local Enterprise Office Wexford staff and attendees at the National Women’s Enterprise Day at the Talbot Hotel, Wexford, 16th October, 2025. Left: Cllr. Barbara-Anne Murphy and Cllr. Patricia Byrne represented Wexford Women Together at the event.
Smyth’s Homevalue is now also a DID Essentials store
BEST WISHES TO DERMOT, BETTY, JACK AND ALL THE TEAM AT SMYTH’S HOMEVALUE ENNISCORTHY WITH THEIR NEW 'DID ESSENTIALS' SECTION WITHIN THE EXISTING STORE.
Smyth’s Homevalue, a family-run business at the heart of Enniscorthy for over 45 years, has marked a new milestone for local shoppers with the launch of DID Essentials – a dedicated in-store concept bringing trusted home appliances and premium brands to the community, all at exceptional value.
The launch event, which took place on Friday 24th October with an official ribbon cutting at 11am, drew strong interest from customers and local stakeholders.
This is the second DID Essentials launch in County Wexford in the past month, following the successful debut at Wallace’s Homevalue in Wellingtonbridge.
The expansion underlines the commitment of both Homevalue and DID Electrical to delivering greater choice and convenience to households across the county.
DID Essentials at Smyth’s Homevalue features a selection of leading brands such as Ninja, Shark, Kenwood, Whirlpool, Eufy, LG and Samsung. The new zone is designed to make it easier for customers to shop for essential appliances alongside their DIY and hardware needs, supported by knowledgeable staff offering product advice and after-sales support. As a business renowned locally for its commitment to customer service and expert advice, Smyth’s Homevalue is proud to further enhance its offering for the Enniscorthy community.
This latest launch is part of a wider partnership between Homevalue and DID Electrical, with five more DID Essentials zones planned for Homevalue stores
across Ireland in the coming months.
The successful launch at Smyth’s Homevalue strengthens the store’s reputation as a one-stop shop for DIY, hardware and home improvement. Jack Kavanagh, Smyth’s Homevalue, said: “We’re delighted to bring DID Essentials to Enniscorthy and to be part of this exciting partnership. Our customers value quality, choice and local service, and this partnership means they can now access top home appliance brands right here in store. The response from the community has been fantastic, and we look forward to welcoming even more shoppers to experience what DID Essentials has to offer.”
Photo L-R: Senan Foley, United Hardware; Tim Masterson, Noelle Murphy, Dermot Kavanagh, Anna Kavanagh and Jack Kavanagh, Smyth’s Homevalue; Barry Grant, DID Essentials; and John Lynch and Betty Kavanagh, Smyth’s Homevalue. n
Leadership summit
Join the County Wexford Chamber Leadership Summit on November 20th at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.
Hear from top leaders including Professor Veronica Campbell (President, SETU), Dan Barry (Enterprise Ireland), Geraldine Heavey (Executive Director of Enterprise Services at ESB), and the General Manager of a leading tech company.
Gain insights from business titans, such as:
Joanne Somers, MD, Johnsons Celtic Linen.
Chris Parle, COO, Midland Tyre Services. Leanne Davey, Waters Technology.
Brian O'Neill, Head of Direct Insurance, Zurich.
Broadcaster Ciara O'Doherty has been announced as the MC, with showcases from Stafford Irish Spirits and Kent Stainless.
Book today for the county's premier leadership event: https://cwc.glueup.com/event/countywexford-chamber-leadership-summit2025-157229/ n
Reward with purpose. Shop local.
Looking for a meaningful way to say thank you to your team or clients? The County Wexford Shop Local Gift Card is the perfect choice.
It supports almost 200 local businesses. It’s flexible, easy to use across Co. Wexford. It’s ideal for staff rewards, incentives and corporate gifting.
Whether you're planning ahead for endof-year recognition or simply want to show appreciation, this card keeps it local – and keeps it thoughtful.
Cards are available from County Wexford Chamber. Order in bulk online: https://tinyurl.com/mr3xa4vx
Celebrate the people who make your business great while supporting the businesses that make Co. Wexford thrive. n
For all County Wexford Chamber news: www.countywexfordchamber.ie and https://www.facebook.com/CountyWexf ordChamber n
Cllr Kehoe seeks greater powers for dog wardens
Motion brought before the October meeting of Wexford Co. Council by Enniscorthy District Councillor Pat Kehoe.
"That this Council calls on the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht to introduce the necessary legislative amendments to empower authorised Dog Wardens to issue on-the-spot fines in the following circumstances:
1. Where a person fails to keep a dog under proper control in a public place; and/or
2. Where a person fails to immediately remove dog foul deposited by a dog under their control in a public area.
“This Council acknowledges the ongoing concerns of communities regarding dogs being allowed to roam without adequate control in public spaces, as well as the persistent issue of dog fouling both of which negatively impact public health, safety, and the general enjoyment of public amenities.
“Accordingly, this Council requests that the Minister bring forward legislation or amend existing provisions in relevant legislation to:
Provide Dog Wardens with clear statutory authority to issue on-the-spot fines for breaches relating to dog control and dog fouling;
Support the enforcement of local bye-laws relating to dogs in public places; and
Strengthen national efforts to promote responsible dog ownership and maintain clean and safe public spaces." n
Wexford County Council and Pets First's new, dedicated website (see below) makes the process of re-homing dogs much simpler. See: https://wexfordrehoming.ie/ n
The dark evening have closed in and each new season brings its own magic. The beautiful colours of the trees as you drive out across the countryside is breathtaking by times and the light on a sunny day this time of year adds to the myriad magical mix.
It’s been a good run in for farmers with a great October weather wise. Grass was abundant, stock were thriving outdoors but with the few stormy days last week and more rain this week, farmers will be leaning towards housing the stock to not let the land get too ripped up so they might save the paddocks for the chance of getting them out early next Spring. It’s a mixture of forward planning, trying to meet today’s needs and juggling feeding stocks to get them through the winter months and not run low or out of silage and hay.
Farmers are multi-taskers. Every day going from working with the animals, driving and maintaining machinery, building sheds, pouring yards of concrete, before taking on all the paperwork that goes with modern-day farming. If it was a small company there would be many diffrent people
with Joe Kavanagh
of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
employed to do the work they get through on a given week. Roll up the sleeves get stuck in and get the job done.
Working alongside these people, knowing what they can skilfully accomplish, I’m often in awe of what or how they can do all they can do.
As the evenings close in, the dairy men will dry off the cows and hopefully get a 6/8 week window of a break from milking to help them recharge and build up for a busy Spring around the corner. It’s a constant flux of meeting the day-today challenges and thinking ahead to stave off possible problems down the road. They'll manage this with better nutrition, strategic worming vaccination programmes, and learning from previous mistakes.
The next time you’re pouring out a drop of milk on your cereal, tucking into a steak or veggie dish, just spare a thought for all the many hands that helped to bring this to your table.
Farming is the most important profession because if we haven’t enough to eat then we will start to appreciate all that these very talented people do for us each day. n
If you have a topic you’d like Joe Kavanagh to address please email Slaney News at: slaneynews@gmail.com
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Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment):
Chinese car giant BYD is going from strength to strength in the Irish market thanks to an expanding model range that now includes six models.
The latest to arrive is the Dolphin Surf, which also happens to be the smallest. BYD's new electric city car is priced from just €17,985, making it one of the most affordable small cars on sale right now.
Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the founder and editor of the online automotive magazine Changing Lanes and a jury member for Irish Car of the Year. Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at www.changinglanes.ie
BYD DOLPHIN SURF
The newcomer is definitely not boring to look at. The designers have managed to avoid the boxy look that plagues some small cars. Instead a punchy design that is shown off the best in lime green. The Dolphin Surf has been affectionately referred to as 'the baby Lambo' thanks to its dramatic styling, large rear spoiler and plunging nose.
LED daytime running lights come as standard across the range, though full LED headlights are only reserved for the top spec Comfort. 15-inch steel wheels come as standard on the Active, while the Boost and Comfort get 16-inch alloys.
Inside is a little more demure. The colour scheme is black and grey, and the Dolphin Surf gives a good impression of being sturdy and well-appointed. There is a digital driver display similar
to other BYD models and the brand's now signature rotating touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It's a good size for a compact car and has lots of features so it's anything but basic. Underneath there is a row of shortcut buttons, but most of the features will require touch control to adjust things like the climate control. Standard equipment includes synthetic leather seats and steering wheel, keyless entry, parking camera, climate control, adaptive cruise control and many safety features. The Comfort model includes extras like heated front seats, wireless smartphone charging and 360-degree camera.
will be the 43.2kWh battery with up to 322 kilometres in the Boost and up to 310 kilometres in the Comfort.
The Dolphin Surf is a strict four seater and adults should be fine to sit in the back from time to time. BYD has also cleverly included three Isofix points: one on the front passenger seat and on both rear seats. The boot is a modest size at 308 litres but generally compares well to rivals like the Citroen e-C3 and the Hyundai Inster. It also has tidy underfloor storage for the charging cables, which keeps them off the boot floor. The rear seats can be let down easily for more space.
The Dolphin Surf uses BYD's LFP 'blade battery'. Range figures vary depending on which model you go for. The entry level Active uses a 30kWh battery with range up to just 220 kilometres. Likely to be of more interest
All versions have 11kW AC charging capability and vehicle to load charging to power other devices and appliances. DC fast charging rates vary: 65kW in the smaller battery Active or 85kW in the larger battery versions. But charging from 10-80% should take about 30 minutes.
On the road the Dolphin Surf feels sturdy and sprightly. Not surprising considering the top of the range Comfort test car has a 156hp electric motor powering the front wheels. Quite a lot
for a small car and it proves to be nippy and responsive - 0-100km/h in 9.1 seconds - and well able to keep up with traffic on motorways should you find yourself on one. There are a few drive modes to choose from including eco, normal, sport and snow. The Active and Boost versions have a more modest 88hp.
It’s quiet and refined to drive meaning it can go seamlessly from town and city to motorway should you have to. Comfort levels are also good for such a small car, though it does feel bumpier on poorly surfaced rural roads. Otherwise it handles well.
The Dolphin Surf Active is available from €17,985 with up to 220 kilometres range. The Boost is available from €22,230 with up to 322 kilometres range. The range-topping Comfort with the most powerful electric motor is available from €24,113 with up to 310 kilometres of range.
The BYD Dolphin Surf is a very convincing small car, particularly in the rangetopping Comfort trim tested here. The combination of power and range make it good to drive, while the features included make it a nice package overall. With funky styling and a fun interior, the Dolphin Surf manages to stand out and carve its own niche among a new generation of small electric cars. n
Interior
Gerard Murphy show in Enniscorthy
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER
PAT O’CONNOR
087-2870006
The Gerard Murphy Memorial Vintage & Classic Car & Tractor Show at Enniscorthy Mart, 5th October 2025.
Left: Pat and Alice Leacy and Noel Moran.
Right: Eddie Davitt and Pat Leacy from Ferns.
Nissan winner
Wexford Car Centre has been named Nissan Aftersales Dealer of the Year. Pictured at the awards are Neil O’Sullivan, Sales Director at Nissan Ireland; Thomas MacDonald, Sales Manager at Wexford Car Centre; and Seamus Morgan, Managing Director, Nissan Ireland. The dedicated team at Wexford Car Centre saw off tough competition from 28 other Nissan dealers nationwide to claim the 2025 award, scoring highly for providing customers with quick turnaround times for routine service, maintenance and warranty repairs. n
Left: Having a look at one of the cars were Audrey and Paul Oxberry.
Right: Andrew McCarthy checks the motor of his Toyota Celica at the Show on 5th October.
Farewell to Aoife
Last month Ferrybank Motors in Wexford bade farewell (for now!) to its tremendous Opel Brand Ambassador and Wexford and Ireland Rugby Superstar, Aoife Wafer, as she headed to the UK to continue her professional rugby journey!
What an outstanding year Aoife has had and recently crowned Sportswoman of the Year 2025! She continues to be an incredible inspiration to everyone on and off the pitch.
Wendy O’Rourke, Director of Ferrybank Motors, said, “It’s been an absolute pleasure working with Aoife – she’s been a joy to partner with – always bringing her energy, positivity and unstoppable spirit that perfectly reflects our brand. From everyone here at Ferrybank Motors and Opel we wish Aoife every success in this exciting new chapter as we continue to cheer her on every step of the way!” n
Sport snippets
Racing is on just one night a week, Thursdays, at Enniscorthy Greyhound Track during November. Always 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
Congratulations to Mia Whelan (pictured right) who scored on her Ireland U16 debut last month in Prague, the young striker blasting a free kick to the back of the net against hosts Czechia. And the remarkable thing is that Mia is still eligible to play at U14 level. 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!
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
Pickle Ball now available in Enniscorthy
Curious about the fastest-growing sport in Ireland?
Pickleball is a racket or paddle sport in which two players (singles) or four players (doubles) use a smoothfaced paddle to hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball over a 34-inch-high (0.86 m) net until one side is unable to return the ball or commits a rule infraction.
Enniscorthy Astro Centre is the perfect place to experience the fun and energy of Pickleball.
Pickle Ball Tuesdays Over 50's 9.30am (booking only). Tuesdays Over 50's 10.30am (session only). Thursdays 6:00pm (pay as you go session).
Astro Active Centre, Bellefield, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 923 6678. Email: astroactive@reachability.ie n
Charity boxing event raises €2,100
‘Eire Season 004' took place on October 11th in Enniscorthy, Wexford, marking an exciting homecoming event that showcased incredible local and national talent. The evening featured a series of thrilling matchups, with several new champions being crowned across multiple divisions.
Mick Abidoye Jr. made history by becoming a two-time division champion, while Cruiseweight and Raul Flow claimed the Lightweight Championship (65kg) title in their respective divisions. Joe Akinyemi delivered an outstanding performance to secure the Middleweight Championship (75kg), and Jackson Kearney also earned the title in his division. Patrick Tommy successfully defended his Heavyweight title, maintaining his championship status.
Notably, three Enniscorthy locals emerged as champions, underscoring the town’s strong presence and talent in the sport.
The organisers extend heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of the event, including Raymond from Dublin, Prince Fa from Enniscorthy Boxing Club, and Byron Jordan from Ferns.
The event was not only a sporting success but also a charitable
one, raising a total of €2,100. A sincere thank you goes to the generous sponsors: Mizzoni's Pizza Enniscorthy, Anthony Dobbs Electrical, The Whitehouse Pub, and Weather Seal.
Special appreciation is also extended to Know How Media Agency, based in Gorey, for capturing the event through their excellent photography. n
Eire Season, with its strong Co. Wexford connections, is set to host
its First Annual
Awards Show at Whites of Wexford on December 13th, 2025.
The event will celebrate the outstanding achievements, dedication, and sporting spirit of all Eire Season boxers who have competed throughout the year.
The evening promises to be a memorable celebration of excellence and community, bringing together athletes, coaches, families, and supporters from across the country to recognise the best of Irish boxing talent. The awards will highlight exceptional performances, sportsmanship, and the passion that defines Eire Season.
“We’re incredibly proud of what our boxers have accomplished this season,” said an Eire Season spokesperson. “This awards night isn’t just about recognition — it’s about celebrating the journey, the hard work, and the unity that make Eire Season so special.”
Guests can look forward to an elegant evening at Whites of Wexford, featuring entertainment, award presentations, and reflections on a year of sporting excellence and growth.
Date: December 13th, 2025. Venue: Whites of Wexford. Hosted by: Eire Season.
More details, including ticket information and special guests, will follow soon. n
Anne conquers all at European Masters
Slaney Olympic’s Anne Gilshinan conquered all at the European Masters in Madeira, Portugal, last month.
Anne won the Gold in the O60 category 1500m. Not only did she do that but she obliterated the field winning by over 30 seconds in a championship record of 4.57, only 1 second outside the World Record!
Anne also qualified for the O60 800m final. This was going to be more of a challenge as she was coming up against current indoor champion and current record holder. Anne knew she had to kick hard from the start and that she did, passing the 400m mark in 70 seconds! This pace was too hot for the chasing British and Portuguese girls in the first lap. With 200m to go it looked like the British athlete was closing but Anne dug deep and there was no way past as she raced to the line in another record, this time the European record of 2.26.
Incredible achievements from Anne, who is now truly one of the greatest masters runners of all time, and an absolute inspiration paving the way for so many. Everyone at Slaney Olympic is so proud of her achievements. n
Enniscorthy’s Shamrocks are County Champions
Congratulations to Shamrocks GAA Club, Enniscorthy, on winning the County U14 Football Championship 2025 and to the management and backroom team of Conor, Ciarán, Johnny, Wally, and Larry. n
The Enniscorthy contingent at the European Masters in Madeira, Portugal, last month.
Congratulations to Enniscorthy’s Maggie O’Connor (above left) who won a bronze medal at the European Masters as part of the W45 4 x 400m relay team.
Anne Gilshinan
THE STORY OF THE DE LACYS OF OULART IN THE REVOLUTIONARY PERIOD
A new book, ENCHANTED TO A STONE, is a fascinating read on the role of the de Lacy family of Oulart in the struggle for Irish identity and freedom from 1905–1923. It traces the early stirrings of the revival of Irish consciousness in County Wexford and covers the broad sweep of the famliy’s activities at local, national and international level.
The title, Enchanted to a Stone, comes from the Yeats poem, Easter 1916, in which the stone is taken to symbolise the resolute constancy of the revolutionaries’ determination to retrieve independent sovereignty of Ireland while mainstream Ireland was preoccupied gaining Irish Home Rule within the Empire seeing that as the more practicable route to freedom.
The four de Lacy siblings, Mick, Ned, Larry and Honor (aka Annie) were all reared on a small holding and Larry gives us a description of what subsistence farming was like domestically in Ireland at that time. All four siblings did their parts across the entire period of the regeneration and independence struggle.
Annie de Lacy (1880-1957). Sadly, like women almost everywhere, Annie’s role has gone completely unrecorded except for some general comments suggesting she was fully behind the lads in any way that offered, whether carrying messages, gleaning information, observing RIC movements, and so on. She was reputed
to have been the most intelligent of the four siblings.
Ned de Lacy (1882-1971). Ned was the main local instigator of perhaps all aspects of the national revival movement, including Gaelic League, Sinn Féin. He was Centre of the local IRB Circle; O/C of Oulart Company Irish Volunteers which took part in the 1916 Rising in Enniscorthy, and was described by a Volunteer contemporary as “as one of those people who made 1916 possible”.
Mick de Lacy (1876-1950) was teaching with the Augustinians in Australia in 1908 when he heard Tom Clarke was returning from America. He too returned home thinking something was up. A highly accomplished teacher he became Civic Minister of the Enniscorthy Republic and was sentenced to death. His leadership qualities coming to further notice in Dartmoor prison, he was appointed Brigadier of the Mid-Limerick Brigade in 1917, a role that became seriously compromised for him by his pivotal role in Limerick City Council’s strategic fight to defend Local Authority appointment powers against efforts by government to encroach on them; and to defend the employment rights of workers irrespective of their political views.
He was asked by W.T. Cosgrave to establish the Dáil’s National Inspectorate for the Dáil’s Department of Local Government which along with the Republican courts led the fight to supplant British administration in Ireland. Mick was Chief Inspector with the rank of Assistant Secretary of the Department, a position he held until his retirement in 1943.
Enchanted to a Stone will be launched in Oulart Community Centre on Wednesday, 5th of November. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.
The book will also be launched in Wexford Library on 6th November, in The Athenaeum, Enniscorthy, on the 7th, in New Ross' Dunbrody restaurant on 12th, and in Gorey Library on 18th November at 7pm.
Larry de Lacy (1885-1973), the youngest of the four. He became a celebrated journalist and editor working for stints in The Enniscorthy Echo, The Irish Times; The Gaelic American (New York), The Leader (San Francisco), Drogheda Argus, Kilkenny People, Western People, Connacht Tribune and Clare Champion.
A botanist at heart, he wrote the If You Watch Today nature column in the Irish Independent for some thirty seven years under the nom de plume Ploughman.
He is remembered mostly now, if at all, for the wrong reason – the Stephen Hayes affair in 1940. But across the Atlantic he is seen as one of the ten top Irishmen in the Unites States fighting in the Irish cause. Leading the IRB on the West Coast he was described by Britain’s top counter-intelligence man in the US, Robert Nathan, as ‘the Irish brain’ of the Indo-German-Irish alliance.
He was a central player in San Francisco, including the defence of those involved in the Indo-German-Irish alliance to run guns into India for the Ghadar movement. When trying to spring the German Consul and Vice Consul from internment on Angel Island as enemy aliens, he was arrested, tried and did eighteen months in McNeill Island Penitentiary.
On release in October 1919, he returned to New York and led the effort to buy and ship 495 Thompson Machine Guns into Ireland with the help of Pat Keegan of Irish Street. The weapons were captured on board ship in Hoboken Harbour. Suspicions had been aroused when the Ship’s steward became suspicious at seeing the all-Irish crew of engineers so eager to work on a Sunday! n
Author Brian Ó Cléirigh
Who were the Normans anyway?
If you didn’t know it already, 2027 has been designated ‘European Year of the Normans’ – a reflection on the impact of one of the most influential peoples of medieval Europe and a celebration of our shared Norman heritage.
But who exactly were the Normans?
We all know the story of how the Normans came to Ireland, invited in by the King of Leinster Diarmait MacMurrough in the late 1160s to help him regain his kingdom. A hundred years earlier, the Normans had invited themselves into England, changing the course of that country’s history forever. In fairness to MacMurrough, he never intended they would take over either Leinster or Ireland but as a Gaelic king he would have done well to heed the traditional maxim, ‘ní mar a shíltear, bítear’ – things don’t always turn out as planned.
So, back to the Normans – who were they anyway and where did they come from? Well, the Wexford Normandy Cultural Association knows a man who knows the answer! Professor Seán Duffy of Trinity College Dublin is the academic advisor on Ireland's involvement in 2027 The Year of the Normans and principal investigator on NAISC, the research project investigating settlement connections between Normandy and Ireland. He’ll be speaking in St. Edan’s Cathedral in Ferns on 5th November about the origins of the socalled ‘Norman invaders of Ireland’. The talk begins at 7.30pm and will be followed by a question and answer session facilitated by Michael MacDonagh, Chief Archaeologist, National Monuments Service, and national coordinator for the European Year of the Normans.
This is the first in a series of important lectures organised by the Wexford Normandy Cultural Association in connection with the forthcoming Year of the Normans. The Association is a county-wide voluntary group that seeks to strengthen and develop cul-
tural heritage links between County Wexford and the region of Normandy in France.
The event is free but as places are limited advance booking is essential. You can book your ticket on Eventbrite using ‘The origins of the “Norman” invaders of Ireland’ in the search box.
This is a very special event and a unique opportunity to hear from acknowledged experts in the field, so the organisers look forward to seeing you there! n
This is the first in a series of talks to raise awareness of 2027 European Year of the Normans. The talk will be given by Seán Duffy, Professor of Medieval Irish and Insular History in Trinity College Dublin and informal academic advisor on Ireland’s involvement in 2027 The Year of the Normans – People of Europe. It will take place in St Edan’s Cathedral, Ferns, on November 5th at 7.30pm.
Historical walk for mental health
Wexford Mental Health Association recently organised an historical town walk with a difference led by renowned and award-winning sean nos singer Niall Wall.
This was a fun and informative event beginning at Railway Square and winding its way leisurely through the streets and alleyways of the town with stops at many of Enniscorthy’s iconic places where Niall imparted nuggets of the history of the spot on the spot so to speak and gave a verse or two of some of Wexford’s and Enniscorthy’s famous songs like Boolavogue and Slaney Valley aptly aided by re-enactors Tim Corrigan and Margaret O’Neill, causing a bit of a stir in places as they burst into song.
The very enjoyable journey came to an end at the National 1798 Centre with tea and scones and a lotta chat as there were questions ga-
lore for Niall on our town’s heroic past, and the morning even unearthed a relative of Robert Brennan, one of the 1916 leaders in the Athenaeum, who spoke to Manager Maura Bell about the possibility of donating some of his artifacts to Enniscorthy history
One of my favourite stops on the tour was St. Senan’s cemetery in Templeshannon, a tranquil, well maintained graveyard usually locked, that I had never visited before, with graves dating back to 1700/1800s.
The ethos behind the exercise was threefold, primarily to get people out and about and meeting other people, to learn a little of the town’s precious and varied history, and to make it an enjoyable event, and Wexford Mental Health are to be commended for achieving all three as attendees spoke animatedly over coffee of the experience. n
Words & Pics by Maria Nolan
Above and below: Niall Wall with the tour group.
Annette Dunbar.
Niall Wall and Margaret O’Neill.
A new dawn for The Mechanics Institute in Wexford town
The historic “Mechanics Institute” on Wexford’s Main Street is to see a new beginning as a community space under the management of the Community Department of Wexford County Council.
In the past two years the Special Projects team of Wexford County Council has carried out essential protection works on the historic structure to prevent it from falling into further disrepair. Now, an internal refurbishment project is underway to bring it back into regular use for the community. The initial primary leaseholders will be a joint committee of well-known Wexford-based theatre groups who have long served the town with their top-class productions of pantomimes, musicals, and dramas. Wexford Pantomime Society, Oyster Lane Theatre Group, and Wexford Drama Group will make joint use of the building for their rehearsals, meetings, props and costume preparation, and storage facilities.
Commenting on the launch of the refurbishment project, Mayor of Wexford Cllr. Garry Laffan said, “I am really delighted to see the old Mechanics Institute building being brought back to life after all these years lying empty. It has been a common issue raised by the public in recent years and it’s terrific that we have finally found a solution.“
Wexford County Council’s Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe said, “It is a great result all round for everyone involved and we hope the building will help strengthen the already excellent theatre culture enjoyed in the town. The building is centrally located on Wexford’s Main Street and so it is
really important to bring it back into use for the people of Wexford. Hopefully now that we have made the investment, the building will continue to provide quality community space for future generations.” n
Great community participation at Slaney water forum event
Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) works on behalf of Ireland’s 31 local authorities to protect and restore good water quality in our rivers, lakes, estuaries, ground and coastal water through catchment science and local community engagement. LAWPRO was established to fulfil requirements under the European Union Water Framework Directive and is funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. LAWPRO coordinates the efforts of local authorities and other public bodies in the implementation of the River Basin Management Plan.
Local voices from across County Wexford came together on 6th October at the Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club for a very well-attended information evening hosted by the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO). The event marked a key milestone in the development of the River Slaney Catchment Community Forum, part of a national pilot programme under Ireland’s Water Action Plan.
The River Slaney catchment, which stretches from the Wicklow uplands down through Carlow and into Wexford before reaching the sea at Wexford Harbour, is a vital resource from its source to the sea. Its physical and water quality health affects everything from drinking water and biodiversity to recreation, tourism, and local livelihoods. The new River Slaney Catchment Forum aims to give the public and local communities living within the catchment a stronger voice in shaping how we protect and improve our rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. This includes the needs of County Wexford communities that depend on the river.
LAWPRO staff delivered presentations outlining the aims and structure of the pilot forum, the status of the water quality and pressures impacting on the river, community funding and supports from LAWPRO. Two community groups, Enniscorthy Tidy Towns and the Slaney River Trust, shared their experiences and ongoing efforts to enhance water quality and biodiversity in the region. The Wexford Regional Game Council were also on hand to give an overview of the work they are doing to conserve biodiversity.
There was strong rural and urban representation from across Wexford-based groups. These included the Slaney River Trust, Wexford Regional Game Council, Edermine Ferry Rowing Club, Macra na Feirme, Tidy Towns groups from across the catchment, farming organisations such as the IFA, and the Wexford Environmental Network. Their presence highlighted the depth of local commitment to protecting the Slaney and its tributaries.
A range of issues were raised and discussed during the meeting, including the need to better recognise the work of farmers in conserving water quality and the challenges facing the sector, water quality in Ferns and the need to upgrade the sewage network, invasive species, deterioration in water quality along the
Slaney itself all the way out to Raven’s Point. The efficacy of the governance structure within the Water Action Plan were questioned as being too complex and a possible need to simplify how we manage our waterways was highlighted. The Farming for Water EIP was singled out as an example of a positive initiative supporting farmers to protect water quality in Co. Wexford.
Dr. Fran Igoe, LAWPRO South East Regional Coordinator, stated, “It is important that we get this right, as this is one of five pilots across the country aimed at developing a national strategy for public participation in Ireland’s efforts to protect and restore water quality.”
David Rafter, Community Water Officer, explained the various funding options available for community groups with an interest in the river.
The creation of the Slaney Catchment Community Forum is of direct public interest. It offers a new way for communities to engage with water management decisions, influence policy, and support local projects. Whether you're a landowner, angler, environmental advocate, or simply someone who enjoys the rivers and beaches of Wexford, this forum provides a platform to ensure your voice is heard.
Maggie Morrissey, LAWPRO Senior Community Water Officer, explained the process and added: “We encourage anyone with an interest in water quality on the River Slaney to get involved or nominate their community representative. LAWPRO will be on hand to provide support. Terms of reference will be agreed at the first meeting in November.”
The Slaney Catchment Community Forum will run from November 2025 to January 2027, providing a space for local deliberation on water quality data, supporting community-led projects, and influencing catchment management plans.
This initiative is part of a wider national effort to restore and protect water quality across Ireland’s 46 river catchments, ensuring that community perspectives are embedded in future water governance.
For more information or to express interest in participating in the Slaney Catchment Community Forum, contact David Rafter, LAWPRO Community Water Officer for Wexford at: drafter@lawaters.ie n
Historic landfill consultations
Wexford’s communities invited to decide the future of historic landfill sites
County Wexford has four historic landfill sites that are due to be transformed into public areas in the coming years. These sites include Carcur near Wexford Town, Lucas Park near Enniscorthy, Ballykeerougue near Campile in the New Ross Municipal District, and Gorteen near Inch in the Gorey Municipal District.
The Creative Ireland programme at Wexford County Council has teamed up with the Environment Office to consult with the communities living close to the sites about their vision for what they could become in the future.
Cultural producer Karla Sanchez is leading these consultation workshops, inviting the communities to share their thoughts and ideas. Using innovative consultation methods, the sessions aim to encourage progressive thinking about what might be possible on the sites.
Cathaoirleach of County Wexford Joe Sullivan says, ‘It is very important that our communities have a say in how the landfill sites are shaped for future generations. These workshops are a fantastic way to share your opinions.’
Three of the consultation evenings have taken place to date. The Ballykeerogue consultation is the only remaining one and it will occur in Campile Community Hall on 7th November. Email elizabeth.howard@wexfordcoco.ie to book your place. n
Don wins national Teagasc awards
We would like to extend our warmest congratulations to Mr. Don Somers, a tillage farmer from Oylegate who was announced as the Overall Winner of the Teagasc / FBD Environmental Sustainability Award 2025, and Category Winner for Improving Water Quality, at an awards ceremony in County Laois on 1st October.
The awards, sponsored by FBD, were presented by Mr. Timmy Dooley TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.
Don regularly inspects soil structure and earthworms, recycles over half his straw (2022–2023), and grows cover crops on all spring crop land. These practices reduce fertiliser needs, prevent nitrogen leaching, improve soil structure, aid seedbed prep-
aration, and enhance water absorption. Precision technology, including yield maps and nitrogen sensors, allows variable nutrient application, improving efficiency and crop health while reducing
environmental impact. Catch crops and riparian buffers protect the River Slaney, and integrated pest management supports biodiversity. Don has reduced chemical use by 20% in the last few years. n
Refuse single use plastics (bags, cups, etc)
Rethink your choices
Reuse as much as possible
Repair before you replace
Recycle all packaging and plastic bottles
Rot all your organic stuff and put it back into the soil n
Can you help?
Do you have a few hours to spare a month? Find yourself bored mid week evenings or at the weekend? Want to make your town a better place? Please contact Enniscorthy Tidy Towns: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown Email: enniscorthytt@gmail.com n
Report illegal dumping
Wexford County Council has three methods to log illegal dumping complaints:
1. Call: 053 919 6000
2. Email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
3. Website to report illegal dumping: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/waste-and-recycling/report-illegal-dumping n
Dog waste
Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA) has been approved for a Local Waste Prevention Grant, which it will use to restore unwanted tools for reuse by its members.
So have a look around your house/shed for tools that ECA can restore, and please leave them at the ECA shed reception. n
did you know?
Did you know, bagged dog waste can go in any public litter bin?
The wonderful volunteers of Ferns Tidy Towns group, and similar groups around the county, are still finding bagged dog poo discarded in landscaped areas, in planters, left on top of walls, or just dropped on the footpaths. The Ferns group is exasperated by this ongoing problem, saying, “It’s not our responsibility to pick up after your dog. There’s just no excuse!”
Do you know you don’t need to find a dedicated dog-waste bin, bagged dog waste can go in any public litter bin!
Leaving dog mess behind isn’t an option, so if the nearest dog bin is full or too far away, just use a general litter bin, or bring it home and dispose of it in your own household waste bin. n
Slaney environmenT
Wexford County Council is delighted to announce that the application window for Phase 2 of the Community Climate Action Programme is now open.
The CCAP, which is funded by the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment (DCEE), aims to support and empower communities, in partnership with their Local Authority, to shape and build low carbon, sustainable communities in a coherent way to contribute to national climate and energy targets.
If your organisation meets the following criteria, it is eligible to apply for funding:
Is a not-for-profit organisation
Located in the operational area of Wexford County Council
Registered with the PPN (https://wexfordppn.ie) or
Connected with another collective and/or a community group with Articles of Association or a Constitution and hold an AGM with approved minutes available.
Wexford Co. Council has been allocated €669,000 for Phase 2 to fund relevant community projects that address some or all of the following five themes:
1) Community Energy
2) Travel
3) Food and Waste
4) Shopping and Recycling
5) Local Environmental Action
Next Steps:
Step 1: Register with the Community Climate Action Officer by emailing climateactiona@wexfordcoco.ie
Step 2: Review the CCAP Presentation:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tvl aniOexpA to gain an understanding of the Evaluation Criteria and see some project examples.
Step 3: Review the Useful Resources –CCAP brochure, Frequently Asked Questions, national list of successful CCAP projects under Phase 1, CCAP Phase 1 recipients' interviews – available on the CCAP webpage: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/environment-and-climatechange/climate-action/community-clima te-action-programme-ccap/community
Step 4: Prepare and submit your CCAP Phase 2 Application before the closing date of 5pm, Tuesday, 16th Dec, 2025.
Applicants will be notified as to the outcome of their application in April 2026.
Any queries from interested applicants should be emailed to: climateaction@wexfordcoco.ie n
Tomhaggard Clean Coasts.
Celebrating ten years of Dealz in Enniscorthy
25th October 2025
Above: Mickey Mouse joins in the ten-year anniversary celebrations.
Below: Grainne Sheehan, Natalie Snell, Dougie the dog, Erin Doyle (Store Manager), Sloshaun Canning and Kaufla Mortisey.
