Reliable advice on all aspects of the law since 1929 Solicitors & Commissioners for Oaths Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, Y21 W5T1 Tel: 053 92 33547 Email: info@fmclaw.ie
On 23rd June 2025, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy was elected as the new Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District taking over the role from Cllr Aidan Browne.
Welcome to the July issue of the Slaney News.
Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy has been chosen as the new Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District with Cllr Pat Kehoe assuming the position of Leas Cathaoirleach (Vice-Chairperson). We wish them both well in what will be a busy year ahead.
This month the Enniscorthy Community Alliance will be launching its latest initiative: ‘The Shannon Way’ project – a dynamic commu nity-led effort to rejuvenate Enniscorthy’s eastside through environ mental and public space improvements. The project will be officially launched on 16th July 2025 at 7pm at Armstrong’s Range, The Shannon. All are invited to attend and refreshments will be served afterwards in Templeshannon Community Centre.
On the festival front, the Enniscorthy Irish Folk and Ballad Festival runs from July 4th-6th, based around Treacys Hotel and the White House Bar. On this same weekend, 5th and 6th July, The Village at Wheelocks will be holding its annual Wexford Strawberry Weekend of food, fun, and entertainment. This month also sees various events taking place in the Enniscorthy district as part of the Wexford Fleadh Fringe. All the above events and more are covered in more detail in our ‘Leisure & Lifestyle’ section. And don’t forget, the Bannow & Rathangan Show on 10th July is always a great day out for all the family.
We include as always a huge number of photos taken around Enniscorthy, and beyond. If you would like to purchase any of our photos please get in touch by email at slaneynews@gmail.com
If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our online format. Tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has 13,500 Followers. And, of course, if you like our format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you – Frank Corcoran
Everything on site for all the family this summer: ☀ Horse and pony trekking ☀ Coffee dock & chipper ☀ Live music
Any cyclists passing our way call in for a cup of coffee. Loads of things to do in the area: Kayaking in Fethard-on-Sea, relaxing walks in Tintern Abbey, great food in our local pubs. To book, call or whatsapp Margaret on 087 271 8803. For rent, choose between: ☀ Self-catering cottages ☀ Pod ☀ Caravan – sleeps 2 adults and 2 children.
SLANEY NEWS
Barbara-Anne Murphy COUNCILLOR
Enniscorthy Technology Park
KILCANNON GARDEN CENTRE AND RESTAURANT
Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 92 35514. Find us on www.reachability.ie and www.facebook.com/KilcannonGC
Kilcannon Garden Centre - Your Ultimate Garden Destination
July is in full swing, and there's no better time to visit Kilcannon Garden Centre & Restaurant, just outside Enniscorthy. Right now, our garden centre is bursting with vibrant Hydrangeas, from bold blues to soft pinks and whites adding stunning colour to any garden or patio space. Explore our full summer selection, including seasonal bedding plants, lush hanging baskets, and beautiful window boxes, all carefully grown and arranged to help your garden shine this season.
Step into our newly renovated restaurant, where we serve fresh, home-cooked meals daily. Our daily changing salads are light, flavourful, and perfect for the warmer months! Plus, much of the veg on your plate comes straight from our own garden, thanks to our “Tunnel to Tummy” initiative, bringing you produce grown right here on-site.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5.30pm and Sundays from 12pm to 5.30pm — Garden Centre only on Sundays. Whether you’re here for gardening inspiration, a relaxing meal, or simply a peaceful wander among the flowers, make Kilcannon part of your July routine. And don’t forget to follow us on social media for gardening tips, seasonal offers, and a taste of what’s fresh today!
Tim and Fiona Phelan invite you to visit their stylish cafe at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy.
The Ballymaloe-trained couple are making full use of a new, top-of-the-range kitchen to offer exceptional food produced in-house as well as supporting local artisan suppliers.
The cafe serves mouth-watering breakfast and lunch menus Mon-Fri 9am to 4.30pm, with daily specials, and brunch on Saturdays 10am to 3pm. Closed on Sundays.
We pride ourselves on using the freshest local ingredients from Wexford’s leading food producers – from farm to fork!
Barbara-Anne takes the reins
THIS YEAR, AS SHE CELEBRATES HER 60TH BIRTHDAY, CLLR BARBARAANNE MURPHY HAS TAKEN OVER THE REINS AS THE NEW CATHAOIRLEACH OF ENNISCORTHY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT.
At the AGM of Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) on 23rd June 2025, Fianna Fáil Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy was elected as its new Cathaoirleach with Cllr Pat Kehoe assuming the position of Leas Cathaoirleach (Vice-Chairperson). Cllr Murphy takes over the role from Cllr. Aidan Browne.
It will now mean that the ‘top table’ at monthly meetings of EMD will be an allfemale one, with Cllr Murphy being flanked by Claire Lawless as Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager and Carolyne Godkin as Wexford Co. Council Director of Services.
For the last 21 years Cllr Murphy has been active as a public representative
but has actually been involved in politics since she was 16. She was joined for the happy occasion by members of her family – see photo below.
Cllr Murphy spoke briefly about some of her priorities for the year ahead including her top priority – housing, both in Enniscorthy town and in the district’s villages. She also spoke about getting the new Community Garden at St. John’s Hospital and the Murphy Floods car-park open as soon as possible. CCTV and new public park areas for Bunclody will also be a focus, as well as advocating for the Blackstairs to include a new national park which would benefit tourism.
We wish Cllr Murphy well in what will be a challenging role in the year ahead. ■
Above: Cathaoirleach Barbara-Anne Murphy with family members. L-R: Treacy Gibson, Fidelma Murphy, Máirín Kehoe, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Muireann Kelly, Matt Redmond. Left: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy with Leas Cathaoirleach Cllr Pat Kehoe.
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Enniscorthy snippets...
VINEGAR HILL
New seating has been installed. Design and content work on new Heritage Interpretive panels is under way. Parking and access improvements to Vinegar Hill are being investigated by Wexford Co. Council (WCC). €44,000 in grant funding is being sought by Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) for signage and lane surface improvement works. The Enniscortrhy East Community Development Association believes it has identified a site that could be used to allow access to the Hill for busses etc, and could potentially house a new welcome centre/coffee shop/toilets, etc and have been in touch with EMD officials about it.
ST JOHN’S COMMUNITY WELLBEING & ACTIVITY GARDEN
Work commenced on site in September 2024. The amphitheatre, raised planter beds, macadam footpaths, and water feature are complete. Electric ducting, water, and granite seating are being done now. S&N Granite kindly sponsored some of the granite for this project. The lawned and wildflower areas have also been prepared. Some of the patients working alongside Kilcannon Garden Centre will plant some of the flower beds. Musical instruments (similar to those in the Orchard Peace will be installed). The contractors are on target to finish the project this month.
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. The purchase of the old Castle Ballroom is complete. WCC is collaborating with the Dept of Housing, Local Government and Heritage around the Ministerial Consent process (as the Castle site is a national monument).
Regarding the Templeshannon element of the TCFP, Wexford Co. Council has prepared a concept mainly for the swimming pool site and presented it at the April Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) meeting.
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 civil works on the Enniscorthy Town CCTV project commenced on 9th June. 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 project is due to be completed by 16th July.
The Bunclody CCTV Scheme is still awaiting Section 38 Approval from the Gardaí.
ENNISCORTHY SPORTS HUB
A works contractor – Kevin Thorpe Ltd – for the second phase (sports equipment storage area, changing rooms, toilets, showers, and a small office) of the Sports Hub has been appointed. Work is due to commence on site around now and should take 9-12 months to complete.
ENNISCORTHY NORTH BUSINESS DISTRICT (Old Dublin Road)
Some works have been carried out in recent years on the Enniscorthy North Business District (Old Dublin Road) where over 2,000 people currently work. An application for further funding was submitted to the National Transport Authority for the active travel elements of the masterplan for the area but no funding was forthcoming for 2023 or 2024. A further application for funding is being made for 2025.
MURPHY FLOODS SITE
Works on a pared-back temporary Car Park facility commenced on site some weeks ago and should be completed later this month at a cost of around €150,000. The new facility will have 37 car-parking spaces.
A valuation on the site has recently been received in the order of €280,000. It is recommended by WCC that the site be placed on the market subject to a development clause. The valuation stated that the current viability of the site would be challenging from a development perspective due to development costs.
ENNISCORTHY FLOOD RELIEF SCHEME
The Dept of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) issued their decision
to reject the scheme on the 4th March 2022. Details are available on www.gov.ie The Scheme will instead proceed on a phased basis.
Phase 1 – Bridgeworks. This phase of the project will include the construction of the new River Slaney Bridge, the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge, and the construction of a new pedestrian bridge in the town centre. Public consultation took place in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on Tuesday 13th May. See more details on page 23. The estimated timeline to planning submission is Q1 2026.
Phase 2 – Flood Relief Works. This phase of the scheme will include the construction of the remaining flood relief measures for Enniscorthy town. There is no timescale available yet for this phase. An engineering consultant will be appointed in the third quarter of 2025 to help advance Phase 2.
The Scheme has a total approved budget of €51m approx. On completion, the scheme is expected to protect 326 properties – 159 homes and 167 businesses.
BUNCLODY PARK
A Stage 2 Natura Impact Statement, plans and particulars were submitted to An Bord Pleanala under Section 177AE. The Board was satisfied that the proposed development would not adversely affect the integrity of the European Site (the Slaney River Valley Special area of Conservation) in view of the Site’s conservation objectives. The application was approved with conditions at the end of February. WCC Property Section is in discussion with local landowners.
PAIRC NA GABHAR BUNCLODY
A Public Consultation event took place in April in St. Aidan’s Hall Bunclody. All comments were taken on board. The Part 8 Planning was lodged on the 28th April. 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. The facility features modern amenities, including floodlights for evening play, dugouts and toilet facilities. Wexford Co. Council signed a Management and Operations Contract, on a two-year pilot basis, with the newly formed community group – Wexford Football Alliance, which includes members of the Wexford Football League, Wexford Schoolboys League, Wexford Women’s League including Schoolgirls, and Wexford FC.
To contact the facility, email: wexfordfootballalliance@gmail.com
ENNISCORTHY TRAILS
Works are ongoing on design and planning to extend the trail network to link to the Ringwood and Borodale trails.
PUBLIC PAYPHONE UPGRADE
A new upgraded payphone and a public information interactive touch screen has been installed on Rafter Street. Broadband/Wi-Fi will be installed. The digital screen can be used to promote upcoming events in Enniscorthy Municipal District and across the county.
ENNISCORTHY TECHNOLOGY PARK PHASE 2
The Technical Consultancy Services Contract has been awarded for Stage (i) to (v) design services. Site investigations are complete, and design work is ongoing. It is anticipated the tender for construction works will be published in Q3 2025.
ENNISCORTHY TECHNOLOGY PARK – IDA ADVANCE FACTORY
The Technical Consultancy Services Contract has been awarded for an architect-led design team to prepare a planning application for a proposed advance factory building in Enniscorthy Technology Park. Site investigations are complete, and design work is ongoing. It is anticipated the planning application will be lodged in Q3 2025. ■
All are invited to the launch of ‘The Shannon Way’ on 16th July
The Enniscorthy Community Alliance is proud to announce the launch of its latest initiative: ‘The Shannon Way’ project – a dynamic community-led effort to rejuvenate Enniscorthy East through environmental and public space improvements. The Shannon Way project will be officially launched on 16th July 2025 at 7pm at Armstrong’s Range, The Shannon. All are invited and refreshments will be served afterwards in Templeshannon Community Centre.
Building on the success of the Alliance’s ongoing Plants and Places project, which has been active since 2024, The Shannon Way will focus on transforming neglected public spaces and strengthening community pride and safety. The initiative will create a vibrant "clean and green mile" stretching from Railway Square to Drumgoold, encouraging local residents to reclaim and enjoy public walkways, laneways, and green areas.
In addition to beautifying the landscape, the project will engage local youth and community members in activities aimed at tackling litter, illegal dumping, and poorly maintained spaces. These efforts
will be supported by training programmes at The Hut – the new Community Hub at Captain Wafer Hall, where individuals and groups can learn skills in sustainability, community development, and local safety.
The Shannon Way is being led by the Enniscorthy Community Alliance, with strong support from partners including Enniscorthy East Community Development Group, Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, Enniscorthy Municipal District, and Wexford County Council.
The initiative has been made possible
through generous funding from the Department of Justice’s Community Safety Fund, which channels proceeds of crime seized by the Criminal Assets Bureau and An Garda Siochana into grassroots safety and improvement projects.
After months of planning and community consultation, the Shannon Way has officially entered its implementation phase. “This is about reclaiming our town for the community,” says Billy Murphy, Chairperson of the Enniscorthy Community Alliance. “We want people to take pride in where they live, and we believe The Shannon Way will help make that happen.”
Residents are encouraged to get involved in this exciting transformation. Visit: www.enniscorthycommunityalliance.org
The Enniscorthy Community Alliance is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the social and environmental development of Enniscorthy. Through collaborative initiatives and employment programmes, the Alliance works to create a more vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable town. ■
Left and below right: Armstrong’s Range, The Shannon, Enniscorthy, where ‘The Shannon Way’ project will be officially launched on 16th July 2025 at 7pm All are welcome. Refreshments will be served afterwards in Templeshannon Community Centre.
Recently painted wall outside the Ukrainian centre, The Shannon.
Tree pruning at Armstrong’s Range has opened up a beautiful ‘archway’ view over Enniscorthy town.
A new planter helping to brighten up the area.
Rapparees/Starlights club mourns a stalwart by Maria Nolan
It was with a sad heart that Rapparees/Starlights
GAA heard of the passing of one of its most treasured members on Fathers Day –Sunday 15th June.
Michael Furlong was one of the elder statesmen of Rapparees/ Starlights GAA Club.
A man with a passion for hurling and football along with administration, Mick, as he is known to all, was mentor, trainer, healer, physio, doctor, advisor and at times father figure to all the underage teams of my youth.
A constant, with his great pal Seamus Deegan, on the underage sidelines of this county for many, many years, Mick and Seamus were the stalwarts of our club nursery on Saturday mornings where they passed on their love of the games to numerous generations of hurlers and footballers.
Mick, along with another good friend of his, Joe Newe, were Chairman and Secretary of Bord na nOg or Coiste as it is now referred to, for many years and Mick being a great man for debate himself always looked forward to throwing discussion open to the floor where sometimes all hell would break loose and Mick, enjoying the deliberations to no end, would be slow to intervene.
Mick and his late wife Eileen, also a keen match-goer, instilled a love of the games and the club in all of their seven children, who were all involved in some capacity with Rapparees/Starlights.
Ronan and Eamonn played for years for the Club, in both codes. Ronan is now Chairman of our Ladies Section and Eamonn of course is a well-respected referee in the county, and the girls Aisling, Mairead, Emer, and Finola involved at different stages and are some of our best and most ardent supporters on match days.
And I know Mick would like me to include his eldest son Cathal, who is no longer with us, in this citation as well.
My longest memory of Mick Furlong is calling into my own father many, many, moons ago when the talk of hurling would go on long into the night.
Rapparees/Starlights and the GAA would not be where they are today except for men like Mick Furlong who dedicated their love, their time, their expertise, their passion, their advice, and their tremendous volunteerism to generations of hurlers and footballers.
And sometimes I think their greatest gift to us as a club and to the GAA in general is the love of our games that they pass on to all around them, particularly their families.
As I have already mentioned, all of Mick’s children are passionate about the GAA and Rapparees/Starlights and now we have his grandchildren following suit and I’ve no doubt we will see his greatgrandchildren do likewise and that is the legacy that Mick is leaving to all of us, so from all at Rapparees/Starlights GAA , from the bottom of our hearts, we say ‘Farewell old friend and thank you for everything.’ ■
Michael Furlong R.I.P. with Maria Nolan.
Defending Neutrality
‘DEFEND IRISH NEUTRALITY’ MEETING TO BE HELD IN GOREY. HAVE YOUR SAY!
The Sinn Féin Neutrality meeting in Gorey on 10th of July is one of a series of public engagements being held by the party to discuss plans by the government to change the ‘Triple Lock’ requirement that provides safeguards as to how the Irish Defence Forces are deployed abroad.
Since the formation of the State, there has been overwhelming support for Irish neutrality which has greatly assisted peacekeeping missions by Irish military personnel in some of the most volatile regions across the globe.
Sinn Féin says, "For many years, elements within FF and FG have sought to end Irish neutrality of which the Triple Lock arrangement is a key cornerstone and important safeguard for the deployment of the military that has allowed peacekeeping missions to be carried out successfully. Sinn Féin will oppose any efforts to disregard our netural status by ending the Triple Lock and the meeting on the 10th of July in Gorey is an opportunity for the public to have their say on what is a vitally important issue." ■
Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh
students raise over €2,000 for Irish Cancer Society
Ruth Hayes, a 6th class student at Gaelscoil Inis Córthaidh, wanted to mark the end of her primary school years with a meaningful gesture. She proposed raising funds for the Irish Cancer Society, culminating in the class taking part in the Ice Bucket Challenge!
Her idea quickly captured everyone’s enthusiasm, and the whole class got involved. Through sponsorships from family, friends, and the local community, the students collectively raised over €2,000. They thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the challenge, but had even more fun pouring buckets of icy water over their principal and teachers!
The funds will go towards vital cancer support services, patient care, and ongoing research efforts. To make the event even more personal, the class dedicated the challenge to loved ones affected by cancer. A massive thank you to everyone who donated.
The remarkable motivation and generosity shown by the students and their supporters have made this project an inspiring success. ■
Enniscorthy looking spick and span for Tidy Towns adjudication
With Tidy Towns adjudication having commenced in recent weeks, Enniscorthy is looking its best thanks to the hard work of Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) and its Town Foreman, Brian O’Neill and his team, as well as Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, aided by Enniscorthy Community Alliance, Sustainable Enniscorthy, and Enniscorthy East Community Development Association.
Street Cleaning
A deep street clean was carried out last month by EMD in Enniscorthy town centre.
Enniscorthy Municipal District Shopfront Painting & Flower Grant Scheme 2025
Following the announcement of the extension to the closing date for applications for the Shopfront Painting & Flower Grant Scheme, a healthy number of applications was received as follows:
40 Shopfront Painting Grants
26 Flower Grant
2 Awning Grants
Applications are being assessed at present. Correspondence will issue to the business owners once complete.
Riverside Trail
Works have been carried out on the Country Walk trail at the end of the Prom. The grass edges have been trimmed back and an additional bench has been installed. Existing benches have been raised by installing concrete bases to enhance accessibility for individuals of all ages and abilities, and the benches have also been cleaned.
Unauthorised Advertising Structures
Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) has issued correspondence to businesses in the town to advise that the use of ad-
vertising structures on or along public paths and roadways is not permitted.
EMD says the unauthorised use of advertisement structures including sandwich boards and bollard sleeves can cause difficulties for the public, particularly those with visual impairments and people relying on mechanised support for mobility. These structures also detract from the presentation of the town centre.
Unauthorised structures including sandwich boards and bollard sleeves are subject to the provisions of the Planning and Development Acts, The Litter Acts and the Roads Acts.
Businesses have been requested to reconsider the use of these structures, discontinue and remove the structures without the need for further involvement of the Council.
EMD has said that unauthorised structures which remain in place after the 31st May 2025 will, without any further notice, be removed by Wexford County Council.
Traffic Cones
Traffic cones placed on public roads by members of the public will be removed by the EMD roads crew. Individuals are not permitted to reserve parking spaces or obstruct public roads by placing traffic cones or other objects on the public road. 25 traffic cones were removed from the public road over the course of a few days last month.
Cleanups by Enniscorthy Tidy Towns
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers are now out twice a week (Thursdays and Sundays) litter-picking, weeding, painting, tidying, biodiversity, etc. Their hard work is apparent in all areas of the town. They would like to cover more ground but need more hands on deck. Can you spare 2-4 hours a month? Please email: enniscorthytt@gmail.com or contact 053 923 6518, and follow on https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown ■
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns: “We can't understand why after going to the effort (as you should do) to pick up your dog’s poop – that you then decide to throw it over a gate for someone else to pick up?”
Tidy
Above: 31 poop bags recently found in a ditch at Greenville between Cluain Bui and Meadowfields.
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers hard at work on the Island Road.
Enniscorthy
Towns volunteers hard at work at the Orchard Peace Park.
Funding to reopen Enniscorthy’s Captain Wafer Hall
The Enniscorthy Community Alliance were delighted last month to receive significant funding from the Government's Community Recognition Fund. This vital support will be allocated towards the much-anticipated renovation of the historic Captain Wafer Hall, which was previously an important cornerstone of community life in Enniscorthy.
"We are absolutely thrilled and incredibly grateful for this funding from the Community Recognition Fund," said Billy Murphy, Chairperson of the Enniscorthy Community Alliance. "The Captain Wafer Hall has served as a cherished hub for generations of Enniscorthy residents, hosting countless events, meetings, and gatherings. This investment is a testament to its importance and will enable us to transform it into a modern, accessible, and vibrant space that can continue to serve our community for many years to come."
The Alliance has leased the hall from the Captain Wafer Hall committee and is working to ensure it is restored to its original purpose. Over the past year the team have been working on some minor improvements and applying for grants to ensure it is possible to complete the larger renovations.
This recent grant is an important milestone, but it will not fully cover the work that needs to be done so further fund-
raising will be taking place over the coming year.
The renovation project aims to address key areas of the hall, including restoring the open spaces for the community as well as structural improvements such as accessibility upgrades and energy efficiency measures. These enhancements will ensure the hall remains a welcoming and functional venue for a diverse range of community activities, from local club meetings and classes to cultural events and social gatherings.
Enniscorthy Community Alliance is a notfor-profit organisation which has been operating in Enniscorthy for many years. It is working on a number of projects and programmes to support the enhancement of the Enniscorthy area. This volunteer-led organisation runs a community employment scheme and most recently has secured funding from the Department of
Justice to deliver two projects, one focused on youth engagement in the community through sustainability and biodiversity, and will be launching its ‘The Shannon Way’ project on 16th July 2025 which is focusing on improvements in the Templeshannon area of the town.
The group collaborates with other local groups to support and advocate for continuous improvements in the town and look for new and innovative ways to bring about positive change.
The Enniscorthy Community Alliance looks forward to commencing the renovation work in the coming months and will keep the community updated on progress.
Enniscorthy Community Alliance: https://www.enniscorthycommunityalliance.org/ enniscorthyca@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthycommunityalliance ■
Funding for Bunclody walkway link
Councillor Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, has welcomed the announcement that Wexford Co. Council has been awarded €70,000 toward a walkway link from Hospital Hill to Church Road, Bunclody, under the Community Recognition Fund.
It is a long-held ambition of Councillor Murphy and the people of Bunclody to see both sides of Bunclody town linked without having to access the N80.
The funding is very welcome as it will help to get this project underway. The walkway/cycleway will connect two sides of Bunclody town, saving the trip to walk Hospital Hill, Irish Street, Main Street (the N80, extremely busy national sec-
ondary road), Church Road to access the Health Centre, the GAA and Soccer Club grounds, as well as linking the communities.
A short cut, it will be safer than using main roads for walking / cycling and will also have health benefits encouraging people to walk rather than get into the car to get from A to B.
Bunclody is a beautiful town situated on the slopes of the Backstairs mountains – but it is a hilly town – so this walkway will be of great benefit to the local people.
This project is part of the plans drawn up by the Pairc Na nGabhar Community Garden Committee in conjunction with Wexford Co. Council. ■
Greyhound racing every Monday and Thursday in Enniscorthy
Greyhound Racing in Enniscorthy is now on every Monday and Thursday.
Enjoy the fun and the craic at Enniscorthy Track.
Group rates available.
Cafe, bar, shop, hot food available, outdoor and indoor seating.
Contact the office for more details: 053 923 3172 / Tel: 087 4893859.
Follow on social media for updates. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthygreyhound.track
The lineup is complete
With the arrival on board of Patricia Byrne, Enniscorthy Municipal District Council is back up to its full complement of six Councillors under Chairperson Barbara-Anne Murphy.
Right: Enniscorthy Municipal District Council front row L-R: Cllr John O’Rourke, Cathaoirleach BarbaraAnne Murphy, Leas Cathaoirleach Pat Kehoe.
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A monthly update from GreenTech HQ
“Great things happen when business minds get in the same room.”
Last month GreenTech HQ welcomed an incredible group of founders and leaders for an afternoon of learning, conversation, and connection. A sincere thank you to renowned business woman Anne Heraty for generously giving her time, experience, and insight. It was a privilege to host Anne at GreenTech HQ.
From shared challenges to fresh ideas, the energy in the room spoke for itself. These are the moments that spark new thinking and, often, new collaborations.
This is what we’re building at GreenTech HQ: a space where Ireland’s business community can grow together.
Left: Anne Heraty, with Ed Murphy and Liz McGonigal both of GreenTech HQ.
“I just wanted to start a business so I didn’t have to work for someone else…”
That’s how Dermot O'Shea, co-founder of global tech success Taoglas, described the start of what is now a world-leading antenna design and manufacturing company – founded in Enniscorthy, and now headquartered in San Diego, where Dermot lives with his wife, Ciara, and their three children. Today, the company has eight offices around the world with revenue in excess of $100m.
We were proud to host a fireside chat with Dermot, who generously shared practical insights on scaling a business, staying grounded, and building a global brand from local beginnings.
From designing antennas used in everything from cars and vending machines to traffic lights and warehouse robots, to launching 200+ new products a year, Dermot’s journey is a masterclass in adaptability, bold decision-making, and customer-led innovation.
Dermot was recently inducted into the New Frontiers Hall of Fame and, after hearing his story, it’s clear why. A truly inspiring and down-to-earth conversation.
“While others debate whether AI matters, you'll be implementing it.”
That was the focus of the AI Masterclass Roundtable in Manufacturing, hosted by GreenTech HQ, and proudly co-hosted by County Wexford Chamber.
Led by Gearoid Kearney (RDI Hub), this session guided manufacturing leaders through a practical, proven framework to:
➤ Discover AI opportunities tailored to their operations
➤ Define measurable AI goals and roadmaps
➤ Develop clear, step-by-step plans for AI adoption
➤ Focus on personal AI usage and set goals for future growth.
This 90-minute session offered space for real conversations and thoughtful insights on how AI can be integrated meaningfully into everyday business operations.
Key takeaways for manufacturers:
➤ Use AI as a co-pilot, not a replacement – it should enhance people and processes
➤ Build AI awareness and skills across your team
➤ Don’t wait for perfection – test, learn, and adapt early.
Huge thanks to Gearoid, and everyone who joined in for a forward-thinking and practical discussion. ■
L-R: Ed Murphy (GreenTech HQ), Paula Roche (CEO, Co. Wexford Chamber), Gearoid Kearney (RDI Hub).
Second from left: Dermot O'Shea, co-founder of global tech success Taoglas.
YOUNG ENNISCORTHY WOMAN WINS TOP EUROPEAN AWARD
Alice Murphy (pictured) from Enniscorthy has taken home the European Young Upcycler Award for her business idea 'Milking It'.
Murphy's idea explores alternative uses for milk filters from the dairy industry. These are single-use items and therefore add up to a lot of waste generated across the estimated 17,000 dairy farms in Ireland per day.
Murphy looked into various ways of repurposing this material and developed ideas to use it as filler for new products such as calf blankets and insulation. Repurposed tent material is also used in her calf jacket design – giving new life to another material that is wasted at scale here in Ireland, particularly after festivals.
Murphy presented her idea to fellow young upcycling entrepreneurs and judges in Parnu Kunstide Kool in Estonia. The winning ideas were voted on by the other participating entrepreneurs. The awards were the culmination of a European Union funded project called Upcyclart – A Bottom Up Approach to Youth Entrepreneurship for Circular Economy.
Murphy's idea was developed during a series of upcycling design thinking camps which were held in Y21 Studios, Enniscorthy, earlier this year as part of the Upcyclart project. The camps were led by upcycling designer and entrepreneur Lynn Haughton. Haughton mentored the participants throughout the camp and during the mobility week and awards in Estonia, and said: “We had 4 excellent participants in the EU Awards representing Ireland. I'm extremely proud of all of them! Each of them really explored the waste stream they had identified and came up with some very strong solutions as a result."
Also participating in the awards representing Ireland were Laura Kennedy from New Ross, Tatenda Gamanya from Enniscorthy, and Alanis McGrath from Waterford.
Scholarship Draw
now open
Haughton became involved from the initial stages of the 18month project through a collaboration with project organisers Arteteka – which is a Dublin-based social enterprise promoting social change through art, creativity, and inclusion. Their work involves using art-based methodologies and old materials with an aim to support young people to develop a sense of self, uncover their potential, and acquire new skills and meet peers across Europe. The Upcyclart project focuses on transforming waste materials into value and business ideas and therefore reducing environmental footprint.
'This was such a wonderful opportunity and enriching experience for all the participants involved,' Haughton said of the project, 'From learning valuable, empowering skills and exploring new possibilities and ways of thinking and doing. It was opportunity to open doors and eyes while making new friends and memories that will last a lifetime.'
Irish winner Alice Murphy was presented with an upcycled trophy and awarded supports to the value of €2,000 to develop her business idea and skills further. ■
The 2025 Enniscorthy Credit Union Scholarship Draw is now open for applications from student members in any year. There is a PLC prize as well as Third Level bursary prizes. It is just one of the many ways Enniscorthy Credit Union gives something back to its members.
Apply online here: https://www.enniscorthycu.ie/services/studentbursary/ or call into any office and pick up an application form. 1st Prize €1,500 for 3 years. 2nd Prize €1,000 for 3 years. PLC Prize of €500.
Closing date: October 25th 2025. Draw: November 11th 2025. ■
PEACE PRIZE OR A GENOCIDE FACILATATOR!
Straight of the bat I must apologise for returning to the Trump topic so soon.
TOWN TALK CONTENDER FOR THE NOBEL
It is so frustrating in one sense but he is like sweet candy to many journalists. He is a king. A social media king as he provides content to dissect on a daily basis. It is well established by his actions and words, everything revolves around him and what will benefit him.
In recent weeks he has focused his attention on tackling conflicts around the world. It is no secret that he has an eye on the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize. It is one of his goals in this term of office. He talks the talk and spins the spin when it comes to most conflicts. Every other day he has mentioned that thousands of poor young Russian and Ukrainian men are dying every week on the frontline. He claims that it must stop but all he has done is a mineral deal with Ukraine and also stopped supplies that might help them repel the aggressor. He has also brokered a ceasefire deal in the Congo citing how people are being butchered with machete knives for years. Oh, and by the way, he has weaved a minerals deal into that contract too. As for the Iran-Israeli conflict he waxed lyrically as to how it was sad that people were dying for decades because both countries ”didn’t know what the f…k they were doing”. At the behest of Israel, he sent war planes to bomb nuclear sites spinning it as the conduit to ending that conflict. What is significant to this part of the story, he said he ordered Israel to recall their planes from fighting during the ceasefire and they obliged. But then we have Gaza.
The war in Palestine is well documented. It not only is classed as a genocide and a war on civilians, it brings shame to the whole world. How can something like this be allowed to continue? This is no longer viewed as a retaliation for the shocking at-
WITH KEITH DOYLE
tacks on October 7, 2023. Prime Minister Netanyahu has clearly stated his objectives but yet civilians are dying trying to get food for their families. More buffer zones are being set up. More land is being taken. The Middle Eastern question is a complex one dating back in history. The Irish would always refer back to 1917 to the Balfour Declaration. This declaration was to establish a Jewish state but no
faiths were to be discriminated against. The architect of this British Declaration was Arthur James Balfour, the British Foreign Secretary. The Arabs always stated that they were sold a pup by Balfour. This does not surprise the Irish as he was the Chief Secretary for Ireland from 1887 to 1891. He was known as ’bloody Balfour’ as he created death and destruction during his reign. He introduced draconian crimes act to assist evictions and threatened to kill nationalist MPs and catholic priests. He compared his style of governance to Cromwell and stated the ’Kilmainham Treaty’ between Parnell and Gladstone was “a negotiation with treason”.
I would not expect Donald Trump to understand history and its impact on people’s beliefs today. He would not know the history of the Celtic bloodline originating from Eastern Europe such as Ukraine and the Czech Republic. I wouldn’t think even his historic advisers would be able to tell him of the devastating impact Balfour had on Ireland and the middle east in just a few short years. I dare say he even has airbrushed his interesting family history from his mind.
Trump however is focused on making his own history. He has stated that he wants to be known as the peace President. One thing is for sure, the longer he ignores what is happening in Gaza and ignoring the path towards a two-state solution agreement the less likely he will be entertained by The Nobel Foundation – an independent organisation made up of highly qualified Professors from all around Europe, which is well versed in history and its impact on current society. Perhaps Donald Trump may take the other option that he already has declared as his preferred choice – allow the I.D.F. clear out the Gaza Strip and he and his friends come in and rebuild making it the riviera of the Middle East. Come on Donald, History awaits. ■
Public consultation for Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme
A developed Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme plan was first exhibited to the public in Enniscorthy Library in 2019. Over four hundred people attended the exhibition, and the scheme was well received. The scheme confirmation documents required for ministerial consent were submitted to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) in March 2020. In April 2021 Wexford Co. Council issued supplementary environmental information to the OPW and DPER to support the approval process. DPER issued their decision to reject the scheme on the 4th March 2022. Details are available on www.gov.ie
The Minister for State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin Moran TD, and senior officials from the OPW and Wexford Co. Council attended a special meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District on 15th April 2025 to update the members in relation to the Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme. It was confirmed that the Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme is proceeding on a phased basis. Phase 1 of the scheme will involve the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge, which poses a significant obstruction to river flow through the town centre during flood events, and the construction of a new road bridge and new
pedestrian bridge to replace the Seamus Rafter Bridge. Phase 2 of the scheme will involve the construction of the remaining flood relief works required for the town.
Phase 1 – Public Consultation:
Wexford County Council held a Public Consultation Day to gather feedback and opinions in relation to the options being considered and the emerging preferred option for Phase 1. The event was held in the Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club on 13th May 2025 and was attended by about 70 people. Submissions were accepted from the general public up to 10th June 2025.
This phase of the project will include the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge , the construction of the new River Slaney Bridge, and the construction of a new pedestrian bridge in the town centre. The estimated timeline to planning submission is Q2 2026.
This phase of the scheme will include the construction of the remaining flood relief measures for Enniscorthy town.
Full details at: https://enniscorthyfrs.ie/?page_id=1669 ■
New carpark will have 37 spaces
The development of a temporary carpark at the Murphy Floods site commenced on Tuesday 13th May. The project is expected to cost around €150,000.
The carpark will include pedestrian linkages to both the Main Street via a set of concrete steps and a pathway/ramp to the Dunnes Stores side. The area that will not be under macadam will be suitably landscaped. Provision has been made for additional public lighting as requested by the local Councillors and in particular by Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy. Drainage has been
put in place and kerbing is being laid. Top soiling the green spaces will be carried out followed by the macadam and line marking works.
When completed over the next couple of weeks, the new carpark will add 37 more carparking spaces for the town centre. This new carpark is just a temporary one. The plan is to put the site, which has been professionally valued at €280,000, on the open market in the hope that a commercial business will take it over and develop it. ■
Fr William Cosgrave P.P. — continuing a lifetime of service and study
A celebration Mass for Fr William Cosgrave’s Diamond Jubilee was held in Monageer Parish Church on 20th June with Bishop Ger Nash presiding.
William Cosgrave was born on 8 March 1941 at Ballinavary, Davidstown, County Wexford, the second of six children of Nicholas and Kathleen Cosgrave. The Cosgraves of Ballinavary are a longstanding farming family, going back to David Cosgrave who came to Ballinavary from Ballymurn in 1828.
William attended Davidstown Primary School and later CBS Enniscorthy. In 1956 William transferred to St Peter’s College, Wexford, where he completed his Leaving Certificate in 1958.
A keen hurler in his youth, William played at half-back on the St Peter’s hurling team where he is remembered as a dedicated and skilful hurler.
In September 1958 William entered Maynooth Seminary, beginning a lifelong commitment to learning and service to the priesthood. He was ordained on 20 June 1965, part of a class of 66 young men dedicated to the vocation. His ordination was a proud occasion for the Cosgrave family, and was attended by his mother Kathleen and his five siblings, as well as other family members. His father Nicholas was too ill to attend and he died in June the following year.
Fr William’s early academic promise led him to pursue postgraduate study in Maynooth for two years (1965 – 1967), where he earned a Doctorate in Theology in 1967.
Fr. William’s ministry combined pastoral care with a strong academic interest. He first taught theology at St Peter’s Seminary in Wexford (1967–1968), before
being appointed Dean of Discipline in Maynooth College Seminary, a position he held until 1973. He then returned to Wexford as a lecturer in moral theology, serving in this role until 1979.
In the late 1970s, Fr William decided to undertake some pastoral work abroad, and was appointed Curate in Kentish Town Parish, London, in September 1979. He remained there for four years before returning to the Diocese of Ferns in 1983, taking up a Curacy role in Gorey Parish, with special work in Tara Hill and the Rock areas.
In 1986, he was again asked to return to St Peter’s Seminary, where he resumed teaching moral theology until 1993.
The following year, he undertook a personal development course in Kent, England – part of his ongoing commitment to reflection and growth. He had also continued with his academic studies alongside, spending four summers at Notre Dame University in Indiana, USA,
furthering his studies in theology. He was awarded an M.A. from Notre Dame in 1990, followed by a second M.A. from London in 2005 after a year of specialist study.
Fr William was appointed Parish Priest of Monageer in 1994, a role he has continued faithfully for over three decades. His quiet dedication and reliable presence have made him a respected and valued figure in the local community.
Throughout his career, Fr William has continued to contribute to theological and moral discourse in Ireland. Since the 1970s, he has written many articles for leading religious publications, including The Furrow and Doctrine and Life. Several of these articles were compiled into two books in the early 21st century, cementing his legacy as both a pastor and a scholar.
Fr William is also a cornerstone of the extended Cosgrave family, a regular visitor to his brothers and sisters, a celebrant at family weddings and christenings, and a welcome presence at Christmas dinners and family gatherings over the years.
Fr. William and his brother Nick shared an interest in local, ecclesiastical and family history, and collaborated on three books and many articles for historical publications, covering significant Cosgrave, Furlong and Browne family members.
Fr. William also shares a love of horse racing with his siblings, and takes keen interest in the runners and riders at Irish and English racing events.
As he marks 60 years of priesthood in 2025, we congratulate Fr Bill, celebrate his contributions to church, community and family, and wish him good health and continued happiness in his ministry in Monageer. ■
World Champions!
Marathon ladies
The Slaney News was privileged to bump into two inspirational ladies last month as they took a few moments out of their busy running schedule to relax on a bench at the Country Walk in Enniscorthy.
Between them, Marie Chapman and Mag Sludds have completed an incredible 275 full marathons.
Both ladies completed the Luxembourg Night Marathon on May 31st which means Mag Sludds has now done 75 marathons and Marie Chapman has crossed the line in 200 marathons.
Well done, ladies, and we wish you many more years of successful marathon running in the future. ■
Well done Des!
Congrats to Enniscorthy’s Tom and Dena Hogan, Hyrox world champions, age 40-49 mixed doubles category, Chicago 2025.
Congrats to Enniscorthy’s Des Killeen, who finished second in the over 80s category at the Leinster Masters track event last month in Carlow.
A regular series by the team at Enniscorthy East Community Development
Follow on Facebook: ‘Enniscorthy East Community Development’
2 Shannon events for your diary...
The Enniscorthy Community Alliance is proud to announce the launch of its latest initiative: ‘The Shannon Way’ project – a dynamic community-led effort to rejuvenate Enniscorthy East through environmental and public space improvements. The Shannon Way project will be officially launched on 16th July 2025 at 7pm at Armstrong’s Range, The Shannon. All are invited and refreshments will be served afterwards in Templeshannon Community Centre.
The Shannon Way project is being led by the Enniscorthy Community Alliance, with strong support from partners including Enniscorthy East Community Development group, Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, Enniscorthy Municipal District, and Wexford County Council. ■
Page 26 - 4th July 2025
If you are interested in making Templeshannon a better place to live for all its residents, please feel free to get involved. The Enniscorthy East Community Development Association meets once a month in the Templeshannon Community Centre. Tel: 087-2930510 for more information.
Relevant Facebook pages for Eastside news: Enniscorthy East Community Development Association Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/EEastCommunity Eastside Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/320813591438762
Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TempleshannonCommunityandChildcareCentre ■
Just some of the many activities at Templeshannon Community Centre... 10.30am
7PM EVERY MONDAY NIGHT
Reach Ability’s 50th Anniversary celebrations at Bree Hub 29th May 2025
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Above: Attendees enjoying the celebrations at Bree Community Centre, 29th May 2025. Right: Clare Doyle. Below: Bridget Kearns and Louise O’Donohue.
Bottom left: Sean Clince and Trevor Jacob (Reach Ability).
Bottom right: Jacqui Murphy (Reach Ability) chats to some of the attendees.
Hope Centre receives over €6,000
Local employees from energy-transition company Pinergy, based in Enniscorthy's new Technology Park, recently presented a cheque for an impressive €6,141 to the Hope Cancer Support Centre in Enniscorthy. This significant donation was raised through a ‘Shave or Dye’ fundraising event held at The Bailey Bar & Eatery in the town.
The fundraiser saw dedicated Pinergy team members bravely taking part, with some shaving their heads, others waxing, and even a few dyeing their hair, all in support of the vital local charity.
Jamie Farrell, James Casey, and David Byrne all shaved their heads for the cause, while Ken Bowe, Tom Doyle, Rory Ryan, Darren Long, Steven Kirwan, Shauna Dunphy, Mason Farrell and Corey Canavan, all volunteered for waxing or hair dying.
The Hope Cancer Support Centre, located on Wafer Street in Enniscorthy, provides invaluable, free services to individuals and families across County Wexford impacted by a cancer diagnosis. Offering everything from counselling to reflexology, the centre ensures empathetic and professional support for those
on their cancer journey.
"We are incredibly proud of our staff for organising and participating in this fantastic fundraiser to support such an essential local charity. The team's efforts will directly contribute to providing vital services at the Hope Cancer Support Centre, helping so many people in our community," said Anne McEvoy, Head of people at Pinergy.
Pinergy wants to thank everyone who donated to this fundraiser including the many local businesses that provided prizes for the event. ■
Enniscorthy’s old cinema up for sale
The old cinema in Enniscorthy, situated at Slaney Plaza, Templeshannon, only a few minutes’ walk from Enniscorthy town centre, has been put up for sale with a quoted price of €400,000.
The three-screen cinema has been closed for a number of years but is in good condition throughout and provides a unique opportunity to acquire a 1,016 sq. mt (10,936 sq. ft) building with loads of potential.
There is a large lobby entrance with a box office and a shop which leads to the three cinema-screen rooms. In addition there is a ladies and gents WC along with a disabled WC.
From feedback on the ‘Slaney News’ Facebook page, most people would like to see the building remain as a cinema, or failing that, some other kind of entertainment centre e.g. a play zone for children. Either way, it would be great to see this building serving the community again in the near future. ■
Left:
Katie Bates, Shauna Dunphy, Darren Long, Tom Doyle, Liz Fitzgerald.
Above:
Liz Fitzgerald, Tom Doyle, Katie Bates.
Double cause for celebration!
There was double cause for celebration on 31st May 2025 at St Senan’s parish church, Enniscorthy, with Bishop Ger Nash rededicating and blessing the church’s recently restored Crucifix and also presenting parishioner Dick Walsh with the Benemerenti Medal – a medal awarded by the Pope to members of the clergy and laity for service to the Catholic Church.
Specialist restoration work on the Crucifix, which has hung at the Shannon Chapel in Enniscorthy for the last 150 years, was carried out by a Co. Wexford master wood craftsman, John Colfer.
The Cross has been a very important object of devotion for the people of the Shannon and parish of St Senan over the years. Even if not going into the Shannon Chapel, many people, if walking by, pop in and touch the cross, bless themselves and say a prayer
Our photos show John Colfer taking down the Crucifix some months ago, recently putting it back in place, and the ceremony on 31st May to bless the restoration. And we also include some photos on the opposite page of parish stalwart Dick Walsh with his family and wellwishers on the occasion of receiving the prestigious Benemerenti Medal. ■
Three photos above left: John Colfer takes down the 1866 Crucifix earlier this year. Above, second photo from right: John putting the finishing touches to the reinstalled Crucifix joined by his father Georgie Colfer. Above right: the finished look.
Left: Co. Wexford master wood craftsman, John Colfer, pictured with local clergy and Bishop Ger Nash at the rededication and blessing of the Crucifix on 31st May 2025.
Above: Detail in the restored Crucifix.
Below: Parishioner Dick Walsh, Benemerenti Medal recipient, pictured with his family, Bishop Ger Nash, local clergy and well-wishers.
Bygone Days House of Stories, Oulart 25th anniversary, 15th June 2025
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Top left: Aoife Kavanagh. Top centre: Eamon Spruhan and Jim Adams. Top right: Belting out the tunes. Left: Some of the crowd attending the event. Above: Guest speaker Cllr Mary Farrell gets the show under way.
Above left: The Committee – Eileen Dempsey, Margaret White, Mary Sutton, Grace Lawlor, Maire Deevy, Rachel Dempsey and John Dempsey, Chairman. Above right: Leslie Dunne and Sonny Cody providing the music. Below left: Attendees including Cllr Mary Farrell. Below right: Some of the crowd.
Amnesty’s Picnic Against Apartheid
Founded in the 1990s, Amnesty International Wexford Group is one of eight Amnesty groups around Ireland contributing to that organisation’s tireless work in defending human rights all over the world.
In the early years the Wexford Amnesty group tackled issues like the death penalty in the USA and Apartheid in South Africa, as well as campaigning for prisoners of conscience all over the world.
Today, the Wexford group is very active in opposing the ongoing genocide in Gaza, and holds a weekly protest in Redmond Square every Thursday at 6.30pm. All are welcome to attend and show solidarity with the people of Gaza.
This friendly and energetic group of local people also holds monthly meetings at 6.30pm on the second Wednesday of every month in the lobby/coffee dock in Whites of Wexford hotel. They raise local awareness about human rights, organise events and stalls and film nights, fundraise, and campaign by letter-writing and lobbying.
Next up for the busy group is its annual, family friendly Picnic Against Apartheid. So grab a blanket and picnic and head for Redmond Park on 13th July, 2pm to 5.30pm, and enjoy FREE admission, live music, guest speakers, puppet show, etc.
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. ■
WEEKLY PROTEST IN WEXFORD AGAINST THE ONGOING GENOCIDE IN GAZA
It is with a heavy heart that Amnesty International Wexford Group continues its weekly protest every Thursday at 6.30pm in Redmond Square, Wexford, as Israeli bombs rain down on Palestinian families and famine conditions prevail. The group is urging the people of Wexford to join them, and to insist the Irish government fulfil their commitment to enact the Occupied Territories Bill. ■
Above: St Aidan’s Choir at the Confirmation on 7th March 2025.
Left: Viktorija Zenkova, Gabija Seselskyte, Crikas Seselskyis and Vauclotas Seselskyis.
Right: Sophie Leacy and Lucy Stafford.
Below left: Fr. Tom Dalton with Eileen Connors and sponsors.
Below centre: Fr. Tom Dalton with Juanita Jo Alapatt and sponsors.
Below right: Ruby McBride and Dan Lane.
Above left: Julia Sopez Galdaz and family. Above centre: Katelyn Fox. Above right: Alfie Doyle and Angela Russell. Below left: Ellie and Joan O’Rourke. Below centre: Lucy Stafford. Below right: Clodagh, Lucy and Emma Stafford. Bottom left: Kathleen, Elisabeth, Felie, Katherine and Andy Connors. Bottom right: Susanne, Ria and Damien Quilty.
Carraig Briste Graduation
Beech, Oak and Forest Classes, 24th June 2025.
Graduation Day for Beech, Oak and Forest classes at Carraig Briste Early Years, Enniscorthy, 24th June 2025.
Carraig Briste proprietor Orlagh Doyle with some of the young graduates.
Left:
Bottom left: Some of the young graduates with staff members.
Bottom right: Rachel, Stephanie, Brian Snr, Brian Jr, and Louise, and in front Rachel Jr Kennedy.
Top right: Forest Class graduates.
Above left: Neill, Ollie and Bernie Doyle.
Above centre: Szymom Kulig.
Above right: Tom and Louise, Fintan and Christine, and Niviens Quigley.
Right: Looking for her handprint with dad, Rosie and Michael Doyle.
Below left: Forest Class graduates.
Below right: Graduates singing their farewell song.
Bottom: Graduates performing their farewell song.
Top left: Carraig Briste Graduation.
Sustainable Enniscorthy
This
month’s Sustainable Enniscorthy topic
is “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure”
Everyday, countless household appliances and textiles end up in landfills. According to the EPA National Waste Statistics Irish households produced 1.8 million tons of household waste in 2022. That’s around 356kg per person! The sad thing is a lot of these items are still functional and useful. So how can we put a stop to this? Well, across Facebook, local groups are helping
find second lives for couches, tables, microwaves, you name it!
So how does it work? All you need is a Facebook account. Join a local freecyle group such as “Wexford Reduce Reuse Recycle” and start advertising anything you no longer have use for. Note: these groups generally operate on a “no sell” principle, so only advertise what you’re willing to part with for free.
If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or be kept informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
sustainableenniscorthy@gmail.com www.sustainableenniscorthy.com Contact us to get involved!
You would be surprised what people would have use for. I have personally given away old interior doors, Lino, tables, and small appliances such as an air fryer and an old TV and had multiple people willing to collect them immediately. It’s a great way to save €100s on skips and trips to the dump, all while reducing our household waste contributions and helping each other out. In the middle of a cost-of-living crisis, when buying even a basic toaster or kettle can strain a budget, these Facebook groups can make a huge difference. These small appliances can become small lifelines for families trying to stretch every euro.
Do you have any textiles or appliances you still want but they need a repair or a new lease of life? Keep an eye on Sustainable Enniscorthy’s Facebook page for details of our Repair Cafés, where you can bring your item for a free repair, or offer your services if you have the skill! Check out https://www.changex.org/ie/repaircafe/enniscorthy-co-wexford-1 for more information. ■
Judy bids farewell to Gaelsoil Inis Córthaidh
Retiring Gaelsoil Inis Córthaidh principal Judy Heffernan pictured with family members.
Below: Judy says goodbye to staff, pupils, parents and well-wishers as she retires on 27th June 2025. ■
Right:
Enniscorthy hosts major international summit
Enniscorthy International Forum hosted the 2025 Buildings Action Coalition Summit in Enniscorthy, June 17-19, 2025
The Enniscorthy International Forum (EIF) hosted its annual summit in Enniscorthy in June 2025. The theme of the summit, Bridges to a Sustainable Future: Innovation as a Critical Imperative in Troubled Times, reflected the contributions needed from buildings, the built environment, and energy to deliver on the challenges of sustainability and climate change. The summit agenda reflects EIF’s objective of enabling delivery of tangible local results with a culture of high performance despite deepening troubles.
“The primary theme of the summit reflects that there are many bridges that must be crossed” noted Barbara-Anne Murphy, Chief Executive of EIF, “if the world is to attain sustainability. We must address education, policy, industry culture, dissemination/deployment, and coherence with the natural environment. As noted by participants, the path to net zero runs straight through our homes and neighbourhoods. Today is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when ambition and delivery go hand in hand.”
EIF has teamed with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to raise the performance of the built environment globally by activating critical investments that address decarbonisation, resilience, and improved quality of life. The summit featured: 1) attendees from around the
Enniscorthy International Forum (EIF) Chief Executive, Barbara-Anne Murphy, with Executive Chair of the EIF Energy Programme Scott Foster.
world who will carry messages from the summit back home to leaders and grassroots players; 2) the UN partnership with EIF; and 3) political leadership from Ireland, California, the EU, and the UN.
Notable speakers and participants included: James Browne TD, Minister for Housing, Ireland.
Tatiana Molcean, United Nations UnderSecretary General.
Andrew McAllister, Commissioner, California Energy Commission.
Ruth Zugman do Coutto, Dep. Director Climate Change Division, UN Environment Programme.
Michael McGrath, EU Commissioner, Democracy, Justice, Rule of Law, & Consumer Protection.
Darcie Houck, Commissioner, California
Public Utilities Commission.
James Gannon, Chairperson at Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU).
James Browne TD, Minister for Housing, Ireland, noted that buildings account for nearly 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions, so decarbonising the built environment is one of the most urgent and impactful climate challenges we face. “Ireland aims to build 300,000 new homes by 2030 and the government is pulling every lever to meet this bold target. All new homes will aim for zero emissions and an A-energy rating, cutting emissions and energy use from day one. Building energyefficient, low-carbon homes isn’t just about climate action – it cuts bills, improves health, and helps eliminate fuel poverty, with technologies like heat pumps and solar panels becoming standard.”
According to Her Excellency Tatiana Molcean, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), "The crisis of sustainability cannot be resolved without transforming buildings – not just tinkering at the margins, but deep transformation which means transformation of the entire built environment. That imperative is in tension with the other crises preoccupying the world – I have in mind especially the crisis of war. War has devastated Ukraine with its buildings and much of its built environ-
ment in shambles. I spent last night in a shelter as bombs rained down! In support of the resilient Ukrainians, UNEP, UNECE and others in Europe are working to rebuild Ukraine into a model of sustainability. Achieving security in Europe is being integrated fully with the objective of achieving a sustainable Europe. The intent is to seize the opportunity for a sustainable European future from the rubble and anguish of a grievous war. Peace, human rights, and sustainability are the integrated core of a new approach that can be a model for global application – with collective security, collective justice, and collective commitment to sustainability guiding international action."
UNEP’s 2024 Emissions Gap Report asserted that quantum leaps in ambition, imagination, and commitment are needed to avoid the worst consequences of the climate catastrophe that is unfolding. The 2025 Buildings Action Coalition (BAC) summit explored the need to be comprehensive in the approach to buildings and the built environment, observed that fixing the built environment in a small corner of the world is insufficient,
Right: L-R: Bob Cavey, Barbara-Anne Murphy, Minister James Browne TD, Cllr Aidan Browne, Scott Foster, Michael Bennett.
that we need to have global impact, and recognised that we are 40 years late in addressing the issues of climate and sustainability – it is necessary to do everything everywhere all at once. If not, as one partcipant observed, we are doomed.
Scott Foster, Executive Chair of the EIF Energy Programme, observed that “the aspiration to keep the rise in global average temperatures below 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels has been dashed, the 2°C target appears to be receding in the rearview mirror, and scientific analysts now bandy figures between 3°C and 5°C as the consequence of humanity’s shortsightedness. Ongoing political and geopolitical distractions are worse than Nero fiddling while Rome burns – war is not fiddling and the consequences are species existential. The abnormal weather of today is signaling a transition to a much hotter globe in a near future. Improving the performance of the built environment is the most effective way to meet the climate challenge while improving quality of life globally.”
Participating organisations will work to extend the coalition’s membership to
global scale and engage with communities around the world to raise the performance of the built environment in terms of affordability, resilience, health, energy efficiency, carbon efficiency, access to clean water and air, social justice, gender equality, and technology access. Specific activities will include the rebuilding of Ukraine, mobilising youth organisations, and developing a high-performance buildings protocol.
EIF, located in Enniscorthy, was established to support the United Nations’ sustainable development agenda, focusing on Buildings and the Built Environment, Energy, Diplomacy, Health, and Education. A non-profit organisation, EIF provides the secretariat of the BAC (Buildings Action Coalition). EIF has a Memorandum of Understanding with UNEP to collaborate on a worldwide mission to improve buildings to reduce carbon emissions while keeping them affordable as well as healthy and comfortable. EIF and its partners work in collaboration with UNEP to promote and demonstrate the transformative benefits of high-performance buildings and to ensure take-up of best practice methods in planning, design and construction across the world. ■
Above left: Minister James Browne TD with California Energy Commissioner Andrew McAllister.
Above centre: Enniscorthy International Forum Chief Executive, Barbara-Anne Murphy, addresses the Summit. Above right: Minister James Browne TD.
Left: Michael Bennett recognising Minister James Browne TD with an award for his contribution to the institution of the Enniscorthy International Forum.
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Killegney Early Years Graduation 26th June 2025
Series of photos below: Proprietor Orlagh Doyle saying goodbye to her graduates. Bottom right: Aoibh Grant and her parents.
Above left: Grainne Redmond, Faye and Mick Kavanagh.
Above centre: Luke Robinson with his family.
Left: Young graduates entertaining the crowd.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
OUT AND ABOUT WITH PAT O’CONNOR
087-2870006
Top left: Getting the balloons ready at Killegney Early Years Class Graduation Day 2025.
Top right: Watching the balloons floating above.
Above left: Graduates being presented with their certificates.
Above: Saying their goodbyes at Killegney Early Years.
Below left: Time for celebration cake.
Below: Families enjoying the graduation day at Killegney Early Years.
Obituary – Eddie Walsh (1940-2025)
Football and hurling UCD Professor was ‘a force for good’
County Wexford team mates and friends from the 1950s and 60s hired a coach to be with their popular football, hurling and golfing colleague Eddie Walsh at his funeral mass at Knocklyon in Dublin last month.
They joined many other GAA followers, golfers, university academics and students from around Ireland to bid farewell to the witty ‘sound’ professor who ‘always left you smiling’ and who was a ‘gentleman’ on the sports field, at parties and in company.
His daughter Siobhán Walsh, a food scientist whose career was inspired by her father, brought the funeral mass congregation along his life journey up to the time of his death after a long battle with cancer at the age of 84.
The fields around St John’s Hospital on the edge of Enniscorthy town were the playgrounds of the young football and hurling mad enthusiast Eddie Walsh growing up there in the 1940s and 1950s. He was born in 1940.
He was aged almost four when he accompanied his brother Seán to the Presentation primary school in Enniscorthy town. Sean, who lived in England, predeceased him this year. Eddie attended CBS Primary school followed by CBS Secondary school, Enniscorthy.
Their father Nick was a distinguished Co. Wexford footballer who became one of the top players in the county in the 1920s and 1930s. He was a member of Ballyhogue teams in 29 championships mainly against the Starlights club from 1922 to 1934.
He was the farm manager at St John’s hospital farm, providing his son Eddie with not alone the scope for developing his football and hurling skills but also the environment for him to develop his interests in agricultural science and a career as a ‘brilliant’ university researcher and lecturer.
Nick’s brother Dick, a sub on the famous Wexford All Ireland four in a row football
team in 1918, was another inspiration to him.
Their sister Ellen (Eddie’s aunt) from the Walsh ancestral home of Kereight, Ballyhogue, was wife of Bob Lambert of Crossabeg, republican, a Sinn Fein TD, and leader of the Kyle Flying Squad, during the Irish War of Independence (19191921) and the Irish Civil War (1922-1923).
Siobhán Walsh stirred memories of her father’s action-packed life in Wexford, Dublin, Kildare, the USA, Canada, and
Mexico, how he loved his students and how he ‘made statistics sexy’ for them. She told how in recent years, he became an accomplished painter of varied pieces of art.
Gifts presented by family members and close friends at the altar in the church included Ballyhogue and Wexford jerseys and a punnet of freshly picked Wexford strawberries.
After his funeral mass, John Curtis, President Wexford GAA, 2008-2010, whose father Bill was a selector for Wexford teams of the time, told of Eddie’s prowess as a
Ballyhogue Winning Teams 1961, 1962,1963, 1964: Front L-R: Nick Cloke, Eddie Walsh, Johnny Dawson, Peter Byrne, Pat Walsh, Dick Doyle, John Curtis. 2nd Row: Phil Wilson, Andy English, Denny Kehoe, Nick Fortune, Mickey Byrne. 3rd Row: Mick Leacy, Nick Doyle, Nick Asple, Johnny Martin, Paddy Wickham, Mick Foley. Back row: Joe Foley, Patrick Leacy, Mick Laffan, Tony Bernie, Denis Asple.
dual player, playing senior football with Wexford against Kildare in 1959, winning senior hurling with Oylegate-Glenbrien in 1963, and winning football championships with Ballyhogue in 1961, 1962, 1963 and 1964 when he played wing back with the team. He won Junior and Intermediate championships in 1965 and 1966. He later won two Fitzgibbon cups with UCD. Eddie’s brother Richard, a teacher, was full forward on a Dublin football team.
His friends Peadar Murphy, Brian Ó Cléirigh, the historian, who was a classmate, Andy English, Patrick Leacy, Nick Power, Nick Doyle, Mick Foley, Phil Wilson and the Asple brothers, Nick, Denis and Patsy noted his steadfast loyalty to Ballyhogue club and Wexford throughout his life.
Tributes to him came from colleagues, Dr Seamus Crosse, Dr Myles Rath, a fellow lecturer at UCD, and Tim Harte and Dr Dermot Ruane, both former managers of Lyons Estate, UCD.
Former Wexford GAA county manager, Tony Dempsey said: “Eddie was proud of Wexford and Wexford was proud of Eddie.”
One of his students, the scientist Dr Noel Culleton, former head of Johnstown Castle, described him as “a powerful force for good who was loved by students and academic staff at UCD. He cared for every single one.”
Others said: “You were always glad to see him and he left you smiling,”– Mick O’Sullivan, “Always a real gentleman,” – Oliver Kehoe, Surrey, England, “He leaves a mountain of memories, – Phil Wilson, “He was a wonderful competitor on the GAA field or on the golf course,”– Dave and Ena Beirne, “A gentleman,”– Larry O’Loughlin, former area manager, Teagasc.
There were further tributes to him from Tim Morrissey, one of the hurling greats
of the 1950s, Ned Bolger, and Paud Moriarty.
Eddie Walsh at first trained to be a psychiatric nurse at St Senan’s Hospital, Enniscorthy. It was there he met his future wife, May Roche, a young psychiatric nurse from Park near Wexford town. “They danced” at The Athenaeum in Enniscorthy.
He won a scholarship to UCD and at the young age of 16, began studies for his BAgrSc (Bachelor of Agricultural Science), degree at the Albert College in Glasnevin, in UCD Earlsfort Terrace, and at the UCD 1,000-acre Lyons Estate in Newcastle, Co. Dublin. He graduated with first class honours, as one of the top students in UCD, in 1966.
He then went to the US and to Canada. Following his achievements of a PhD in University of Iowa State, USA, and further studies in University of Guelph in Canada, he returned to Ireland to take up the position of researcher/lecturer in crop breeding at the Department of Agriculture and Food Science at UCD. He continued as a noted lecturer on plant genetics and breeding there, becoming Professor of Crop Science in UCD up to his retirement in 2005. He is remembered for influencing hundreds of students and researchers in the exacting, painstaking field of plant breeding. He was also a member of ‘the Green Revolution’ team of the Nobel Prize winner of 1970, Dr. Norman Borlaug, contributing his research on wheat to alleviation of world hunger and prevention of famine.
On his retirement, he and his wife May became members of Castlewarden Golf Club in Co. Kildare. While he was there, he studied the trees around the golf course and wrote a widely acclaimed book titled The Trees of Castlewarden.
He was also active in the County Wexford commemorations in 1998 of the 1798 Rebellion.
The congregation at the Church of St Colmcille, Knocklyon, bade farewell to him, many of them singing while accompanying a rousing Brendan Bowyer version of the Wexford 1798 song, Boolavogue. He was laid to rest at Mount Venus Cemetery. His children Eamonn and Deirdre predeceased him.
Eddie Walsh is survived by his wife May and by their children Aideen and Siobhán. – M.F.
Wexford Senior Football team of 1959: An incomplete caption of the Wexford Senior Football team members v. Kildare in the National Football League of 1959. Back row L-R: J. Kennedy, J. Martin, J. Roche, F. Cullen, B. O’Leary, –, E. Walsh, –, – , Bill Curtis (in cap) selector, and J. Crowley. Front L-R: W. Foley, A. Doyle, T. Neville, D. Roche –, – , P. Crowley, P. Doyle.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
OUT AND ABOUT WITH PAT O’CONNOR
087-2870006
Out & About
Above left: Ava Kenny showing off her strength at Enniscorthy and Monart Union of Parishes Fete at The Showgrounds, Enniscorthy, 7th June 2025.
Above centre: Glenbrien N.S. Parents’ Association Fun Day in Glenbrien N.S., 8th June 2025, Caoimhe Walsh and Roisin Farrell.
Above right: Enniscorthy and Monart Union of Parishes Fete in The Showgrounds, 7th June 2025, Mila Na Kireu.
Left: Jason Ruttle tucking into his pancake at the Enniscorthy and Monart Union of Parishes Fete.
Right: Oulart Women’s Tea Afternoon in Oulart Community Centre, 7th June 2025, David Lakeman, brother to Evonne Murphy, who celebrated her birthday on the same day.
Below left: Glenbrien N.S. Parents’ Association Fun Day in Glenbrien N.S., Archie Murphy and Lily O’Brien at their stand.
Below centre: Glenbrien N.S. Parents’ Association Fun Day, George Graham, Paudie Doran and Ollie Graham.
Below right: Oulart Women’s Tea Afternoon, Tess and Eve Murphy.
Left: Five dedicated staff members have just retired at St Patrick’s Special School, Enniscorthy – Deputy Principal AnnMarie, SNA Bernie, Secretary Bernie, Nurse Stella and teacher Ursula. Above centre: Glenbrien N.S. Parents Association Fun Day, Elise Wheeler at the Nail Stand. ‘Now which one will I buy?’ Above right: Marshalstown N.S. Teddy Bears Picnic –Danny and Pauline O’Byrne.
COLÁISTE BRÍDE, ENNISCORTHY, GRANTED PLANNING PERMISSION FOR
A MAJOR EXTENSION TO THE SCHOOL
Coláiste Bríde, Enniscorthy, has been granted planning permission for a major redevelopment and extension.
The construction will consist of a 1 and 2 storey building to replace the existing prefabricated classrooms on site with a total floor area of 2,649.6 sq.m. comprising of 6 general classrooms, 1 technology room with preparation area and project store, 2 science laboratories with a shared preparation area, 1 home economics room, 1 computer lab, 1 oratory, 1 music room and a 2-classroom SEN unit with direct access to its own outdoor play area and sensory garden with all necessary associated ancillary spaces, including principal's office, WCs, kitchen, plant rooms and storage spaces, the installation of roof-mounted solar PV panels, ASHP and enclosure, enclosure for 2 LPG tanks, 2 no. static water storage tanks (below ground), the demolition of prayer room (40 sq.m.) and reconfiguration of WCs, demolition and reinstatement of part of the existing music room to facilitate the works with the addition of a new window, the removal of a single storey prefabricated 5 classroom block (222 sq.m.) together with site works comprising: provision of one-way set down system and the addition of car
parking spaces to the front of the main school, grasscrete access road to provide fire tender access around the building and all associated drainage and site development works and improvements. ■
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! ■
I) a 2-storey creche/childcare facility, and for all ancillary works and services which shall consist of the following:
J) public open spaces with hard and soft landscaping including the preservation of all relevant archaeological findings on site, to include the construction of a themed archaeological park and public visitors parking and play park facilities, designed in consultation with the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage and the project archaeologist,
K) waste and recycling storage facilities,
L) electrical vehicle charging points,
M) inter-site boundary fencings, treatments and wall construction,
N) general boundary treatments, O) connection to all existing public services and utilities, P) surface water drainage and attenuation systems including natural systems, Q) all ancillary works. ■
Killegney Early Years Graduation
26th June 2025
Above: The ‘graduates’ and Killegney staff members.
Below: Some of the crowd gathered for the graduation ceremony.
l Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
1 No. Wexford PPN Representative County Heritage Forum,
Wexford County Council
The County Heritage Officer is seeking a representative from a Member Group of Wexford Public Participation Network to sit on the new County Heritage Forum.
This non-statutory forum will be instrumental in the production of the County Heritage Plan. The forum will consist of 18 members from agencies and local interest groups who must be involved in all matters relating to the built, cultural and natural heritage of Wexford. The forum will offer representatives regular opportunities to discuss relevant heritage matters and implement actions into the forthcoming Heritage Plan. It will meet in person 4 times a year in Wexford County Council Offices, with a typical meeting lasting 1.5 hours.
Interested Member Groups please contact: mary.byrne@wexfordcoco.ie or sue.kent@wexfordcoco for a nomination form.
Closing date for receipt of nominations is 5pm Monday 30th June 2025.
Please submit nomination forms by post to Wexford PPN, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, or by email to mary.byrne@wexfordcoco.ie or sue.kent@wexfordcoco
1 Ionadaí ó LRP Loch Garman d’Fhóram Oidhreachta an Chontae, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
Tá Oifigeach Oidhreachta an Chontae ag lorg ionadaí ó Ghrúpa is Comhalta de Líonra Rannpháirtíochta Poiblí Loch Garman chun suí ar Fhóram Oidhreachta nua an Chontae. Beidh ról tábhachtach ag an bhfóram neamhreachtúil seo ó thaobh Plean Oidhreachta an Chontae a chur i dtoll a chéile. Beidh 18 comhalta ó ghníomhaireachtaí agus grúpaí leasa áitiúla ar an bhfóram, nár mhór dóibh a bheith bainteach sna hábhair uile a bhaineann le hoidhreacht thógtha, chultúir agus nádúrtha Loch Garman. Leis an bhfóram seo, tabharfar deiseanna rialta d’ionadaithe gnóthaí ábhartha maidir le hoidhreachta a phlé agus gníomhartha a chur i bhfeidhm i leith an Phlean Oidhreachta atá ar na bacáin. Tiocfaidh an fóram le chéile 4 huaire in aghaidh na bliana in Oifigí Chomhairle Contae Loch Garman, ach is iondúil go mairfidh cruinniú uair go leith.
Ba cheart do Ghrúpaí is Comhaltaí a bhfuil spéis acu teagmháil a dhéanamh le: mary.byrne@wexfordcoco.ie nó sue.kent@wexfordcoco chun foirm ainmniúcháin a fháil.
An dáta deiridh a nglacfar le hiarratais ná 5pm, Dé Luain, an 30 Meitheamh 2025.
Cuir foirmeacha ainmniúcháin ar aghaidh ar an bpost chuig LRP Loch Garman, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, an Charraig Leathan, Loch Garman, nó ar ríomhphost chuig mary.byrne@wexfordcoco.ie nó sue.kent@wexfordcoco
Wexford Public Participation Network (PPN) Lionra Rannphairtiochta Pobail Loch Garman
Nominations are sought from PPN Member Groups for the following positions:
1 No. Local Community Safety Partnership Representative Wexford Municipal District
1 No. Local Community Safety Partnership Representative Rosslare Municipal District
1 No. Local Community Safety Partnership Representative New Ross Municipal District
1 No. Local Community Safety Partnership Representative Gorey Municipal District Representative
1 No. Local Community Safety Partnership Representative Enniscorthy Municipal District Representative
On the 2nd April 2025 the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024 was commenced by the Minister for Justice Jim O Callaghan T.D. The legislation requires Local Authorities to establish and administer Local Community Safety Partnerships in their administrative area.
Membership of the partnership will consist of state agencies such as the HSE, An Garda Síochána, TUSLA, and Local Authority Public Representatives. Membership will also include non-state agencies and organisations who are actively involved in the area of community safety.
The Local Authority is now seeking 5 nominations from the Public Participation Network to represent residents from the 5 Municipal Districts. This can include a representative from any particular grouping that represents residents or communities in dealing with community safety issues or has an interest in doing so.
Garman
Local residents are people living within the functional area of the partnership which is County Wexford. Representatives should be nominated to provide a broad representation of the geographic area, as well as demographic, community safety interests/issues and gender balance. In this regard, representatives should include but is not be limited to residents groups. Consideration could be given to residents being nominated based on a key community safety issue in the area and the mandate they have to address such issues.
The Local Community Safety Partnership will be county wide and it is anticipated it will meet 6 times per annum. The work of the partnership is summarised below:
• Prioritise issues identified by the community as safety concerns
• Improve Multi-agency response to community safety issues.
• Increase community confidence in service providers
• Forum for discussion for community safety issues
• To undertake Public Consultations on community safety
• To develop and adopt a 3-year Local Community Safety Plan
• To monitor implement and review plan
• Coordinate action, and prevent harmful behaviour
The partnership will build on the work of the Joint Policing Committee in a collaborative approach with all stakeholders in making our communities a safer place for all.
Interested Member Groups please contact mary.byrne@wexfordcoco.ie or sue.kent@wexfordcoco for a nomination form.
Closing date for receipt of nominations is 5pm Wednesday 2nd July 2025.
Please submit nomination forms by post to Wexford PPN, Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, or by email to mary.byrne@wexfordcoco.ie or sue.kent@wexfordcoco
Selection for all posts will be by means of interview and candidates may be shortlisted based on applications submitted. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.
Qualifications, application forms and further particulars for all posts are available from our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie
Please note all applications for the above posts must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie
Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted for the above posts.
Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for the posts of Temporary Senior Executive Engineer, Temporary Senior Resident Engineer & Temporary Resident Engineer: 5.00pm on Thursday, 3rd July, 2025.
Closing date for receipt of completed application forms for the post of Executive Librarian & Library Staff Officer: 5.00pm on Thursday, 10th July, 2025.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Comhairle Contae Loch
Fáiltíonn Comhairle Contae Loch Garman roimh iarratasóirí do na poist seo a leanas:
Innealtóir Feidhmiúcháin Sinsearach Sealadach
Innealtóir Cónaitheach Sinsearach Sealadach
Innealtóir Cónaitheach Sealadach
Leabharlannaí Feidhmiúcháin
Oifigeach Foirne Leabharlainne
Is trí agallamh a dhéanamh a dhéanfar rogha do na poist go léir agus d’fhéadfaí iarratasóirí a chur ar ghearrliosta bunaithe ar na hiarratais a chuirfear ar aghaidh. D’fhéadfaí painéil a bhunú óna bhféadfaí folúntais a líonadh amach anseo.
Tá fáil ar cháilíochtaí, foirmeacha iarratais agus sonraí breise do na poist go léir ár an láithreán gréasáin atá againn ar www.wexfordcoco.ie
Tabhair ar aird nach mór gach iarratas ar na poist thuasluaite a Chlóscríomh agus a chur ar aghaidh ar Ríomhphost amháin chuig recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie
NÍ GHLACFAR le cóipeanna crua priontáilte do na poist thuasluaite.
An dáta deiridh a nglacfar le foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe do na poist Innealtóir Feidhmiúcháin Sinsearach Sealadach, Innealtóir Cónaitheach Sinsearach Sealadach & Innealtóir Cónaitheach Sealadach ná:
5.00pm Déardaoin, an 3 Iúil 2025.
An dáta deiridh a nglacfar le foirmeacha iarratais comhlánaithe do na poist Leabharlannaí Feidhmiúcháin & Oifigeach Foirne Leabharlainne ná:
5.00pm Déardaoin, an 10 Iúil 2025.
Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993
Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council has decided to close the road listed hereunder to vehicular traffic on Saturday 12 July and Sunday 13 July from 13:00 to 17:00 to facilitate the Courtown RNLI Annual Sea Sunday Celebrations at North Pier, Courtown, Co. Wexford.
Road Closure: L50401-1 North Pier, Courtown, Co. Wexford. Local access will be facilitated.
Wexford County Council has vacancies in the following areas of our Community Employment Scheme:
Position
Environmental Worker –2 positions with Driver’s Licence
Environmental Worker –1 position with Driver’s Licence
Environmental Worker –1 position with Driver’s Licence
Environmental Worker –2 positions with Driver’s Licence
Environmental Worker –1 position with Driver’s Licence
Location
Holmestown
New Ross
Duncannon
Wexford
Rosslare
Environmental Worker – 2 positions Wexford
Environmental Worker – 2 positions Duncannon
Environmental Worker – 1 position
New Ross
Environmental Worker – 1 position Holmestown
Environmental Worker – 1 position Rosslare
Duties to include:
• Environmental Worker - General maintenance, cleaning, planting and weeding etc. Those applying for the position with licence must hold a full valid clean driver’s licence.
To apply for any of these positions positions and for further information please contact – Sean O’Neill, CE Scheme Supervisor, Wexford County Council on (086 9478001) during office hours 9a.m – 5p.m or by email to sean.oneill@wexfordcoco.ie.
The closing date for all applications is Friday July 11th 2025 at 4.30pm.
Please note that persons applying for these positions must satisfy the Department of Social Protection criteria to participate in the Community Employment Scheme.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities employer.
Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)
Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended)
Notice of Proposed Development by a Local Authority LAC2506
Pursuant to Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and in accordance with Part 8, Article 81 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council proposes to carry out the development, the nature and extent of which is set out hereunder:
• Construction of 57 no. residential units, consisting of: 8 no. 'Type A' & 8 no. 'Type A1' 1 bed maisonette apartments, 8 no. 'Type B' 2 bed terrace houses, 6 no. 'Type C' 3 bed semi-detached houses, 1 no. 'Type D' 2 bed universal design bungalow, 1 no. 'Type E' 3 bed universal design bungalow; along with a four-storey apartment block consisting of 10 no. 'Type F', 6 no. 'Type F1' & 1 no. 'Type F2' 1 bed apartments, 3 no. 'Type G', 4 no. 'Type G1' & 1 no. 'Type G2' 2 bed apartments and all associated infrastructure and site works.
Based on a preliminary examination of the nature, size and location of the development, there is no likelihood of significant effects on the environment and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) is not required.
Any person may, within 4 weeks from the date of the notice, apply to An Coimisiún Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.
Plans and particulars of the proposed development will be available for inspection or purchase at a reasonable fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during office hours from Wednesday 2 July 2025 to Wednesday 30 July 2025, at the following locations and may be viewed online at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning:
• Wexford County Council, Planning Department, Carricklawn, Wexford.
• Borough District of Wexford Office, The Bull Ring, Wexford.
Submissions or observations with respect to the above proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made in writing on or before Wednesday 13 August 2025 to:
Wexford County Council, Planning Department, (Reference LAC2506), Carricklawn, Wexford.
Open Call for Historian in Residence Scheme Criteria 2025
Wexford County Council seeks applications for a Historian in Residence to support the Wexford County Council Commemoration programme. The Residency is supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport fund for commemoration 2025.
SALES PORTAL OPEN SALES PORTAL OPEN
Loch Garman
Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
This residency is a Contract for Service and the Historian in Residence will be required to provide 168 hours over a 3-4 month period commencing August/September 2025.
Commemorative Programme for County Wexford:
This residency will support community-led commemorative initiatives to mark the centenaries of locally significant historical events in 1925, and other notable anniversaries of key events in the early years of the State, as well as other significant anniversaries and associated themes.
Brief
There will be an expectation of regular contracted hours and regular public facing hours, totalling an average of 12-14 hrs per week. This includes the possibility of evening, daytime and weekend working, as may be needed to suit programming requirements. It also includes time spent on development, research, writing, preparation of public events, attendance at meetings, reporting and administration.
The Historian in Residence will deliver a programme of regular public talks/workshops/events to a diverse audience and will include innovative ways to encourage an interest in history, to spark reflection and understanding of key historical events in a local context.
Further details of the role, essential criteria and application procedure available at: www.wexfordcoco.ie/libraries/commemoration-2024-2025and-decade-of-centenaries-2012-2023
Or by e-mailing: libraryhq@wexfordcoco.ie
Please send completed application with a current CV marked 'Historian in Residence' by email to: libraryhq@wexfordcoco.ie
The closing date for completed applications is 5pm on Friday 11th July 2025.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities employer.
Comhairle Contae
WEXFORD PUNK FESTIVAL 2025
Pics by Damien Smullen
Wexford Arts Centre, 26th April 2025
Above: Baggles & Butch. Below: The Dubtones. Bottom: Recoil.
Above: Organisers Andre Tschan, Colleen Duran, John Holden. Below: The Zonai.
Panel discussion at the Wexford Punk Festival.
Great shows to look forward to
Congrats to Enniscorthy native Eamonn Wall on the launch of his latest book of poetry, My Aunts at Twilight Poker. The book is available on the Salmon Poetry website: https://www.salmonpoetry.com/details.php?ID=592&a=149
Fleadh fever at launch of Paddy Berry’s “Bit of Divarsion”
Champion Fleadh musicians, singers, storytellers and politicians were among the 80 or so people who came from far and near to the Farmer’s Kitchen hotel in Drinagh for the launch by the raconteur Niall Wall of Paddy Berry’s book of ballads and poems titled A Bit of Divarsion.
Culture vulture Deputy George Lawlor TD, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Fleadh Ceoil na hÉireann was there with Cllr Ger Carthy and Cllr Jim Codd, chairperson of Rosslare Municipal District.
The very cultured Senan Lillis floated like a Wexford ambassador among different groups, one a group from Tyrone, another from Armagh. The very mellifluous Kevin Waters was M.C.
Barbara Walsh, vice chair of the Fleadh Cheoil Executive Committee, or “FEC” as it’s known locally, was on fire with an energetic speech about the volunteers, the musicians and the thousands of plain ordinary people coming from all over Ireland and abroad to catch Fleadh fever in Wexford town from Sunday 3rd to Sunday 10th August.
In a lengthy tribute, Niall Wall praised the ‘remarkable’ singer and songwriter Paddy Berry, known also as “Mr Fleadh”, for his ‘many talents and the careful and deliberate way he approaches things’.
He said, “Folk songs or balladry, like Paddy Berry’s, are an articulation of the thoughts, loves and sufferings of the ordinary people, not necessarily the leadership or elites in a community. What we are dealing with here is narrative singing from a folk tradition,
which though ancient, is an authentic voice of modern people.”
Paddy Berry himself brought the house down with his rendering of the 13 verses of ‘The Hat’, one of the 24 poems from his book, which is about what happened at the Wexford races.
The floor cleared back for the awesome performances of three Fleadh musicians from the Taghmon area – Scott Flynn on bodhrán, Una Walsh on harp, and Aoife White Banville, who is a noted singer, on accordion. They are so serious about their music that they don’t smile. Fleadh pundits there predicted that they would do well in the Fleadh and that at least one of them would bring home an “All-Ireland”.
A Bit of Divarsion comprises 24 self-composed ballads and poems, in 94 pages, all fun filled rich slices of life of Irish and Wexford characters and places, by Paddy Berry, written down by him between 1980 and 2022.
– M.F.
Paddy Berry at back with his grandchildren from left to right: Patrick Berry, Cathal McCleane, Jonah Berry, Cormac McCleane, Jamie Berry, Ciara McCleane, Mia Berry.
Paddy Berry signing a copy of his book ‘A Bit of Divarsion’ for Declan Codd.
Above L-R: 1. Kevin Waters, MC. 2. Senan Lillis, Cllr Ger Carthy and George Lawlor TD, PRO for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 in Wexford town. 3. Aoife White Banville (singer and accordion player). 4. Barbara Walsh, vice chair of the 2025 Fleadh Executive Committee (FEC), Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, Wexford.
Above left: Some of the attendance. Above: Musicians Scott Flynn on bodhrán, Una Walsh on harp, and Aoife White Banville on accordion. Left: Colm Mac Confhaola, Willie Considine, Paddy Byrne, Eileen Byrne. Below left: Nancy Sheil, Seamus Sheil, Tony Malone and Martin Power. Below centre: Anne Berry (wife of Pádraig), Brendan Hughes, Toni Hughes, Paddy Kehoe. Below right: Áine Berry (Paddy’s daughter) with on left her husband Fintan McCleane and on right Mick Berry.
Above left: Collette Kehoe and Denise Berry. Above centre: Vivian Molloy, Matt Murphy, May Hanton, Meadhbh Wall, Goretti Molloy (Armagh) and Niall Wall. Above right: Paul Flynn, Barbara Walsh and Kevin Waters.
Below left: Áine Berry with her brothers Mick Berry, Pádraig Berry, Ciarán Berry. Below centre: George Lawlor, TD, Cllr Ger Carthy and Cllr Jim Codd, Chairman Rosslare Municipal District. Below right: Carmel Lonergan and Marion Murphy of Kilrane.
National Play Day events in Enniscorthy
Barbara Nolan, Staff Officer with Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD), has secured funding from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth under the National Play Day Funding Scheme 2025.
As a result, two events based around the theme 'The Power of Play' will take place on 9th July in Enniscorthy.
1. A training workshop in the morning for people volunteering/working with children and young people, booking is essential.
2. A Pop-up Play Event which is FREE and suitable for all ages – no booking required.
The Pop-up Play Event will take place at the Orchard Peace Park in Enniscorthy on Wednesday 9th July from 1:30pm – 3:30pm, in collaboration with Creative Places Enniscorthy, facilitating two creative playful activities, and play props will be available such as tug of war, jump sacks, etc.
This FREE event is suitable for children and young people of all ages. No booking required – just go along and enjoy the fun!!
On the morning of 9th July, in FDYS, Enniscorthy, play strategist Martin O’Donoghue will facilitate a Training Workshop for people who work/volunteer in community settings engaging with early childhood up to teens and young adults. The workshop will encourage participants to explore how play can be used as a community building tool. This will be followed by the two-hour inclusive Play Event in the Orchard Peace Park, outlined above, where participants of the workshop will have an opportunity to see their newly learned skills put to work.
Part of the funding from the Department will be used to purchase durable play equipment for community settings. n
F1 : THE MOVIE
Movie Reviews by Kyle Walsh
We raced to the Wexford Omniplex Cinema the other night to watch Brad Pitt back on the Big Screen, in the blockbuster movie of the summer F1 – the Formula One movie that has exhilarated in the box office so much that the film studio has just announced that it is planning on making a sequel.
What we have here is director Joseph Kosinski, who previously directed the wonderful hit, Top Gun: Maverick, leading us down the race course at 200 km/hr. It’s a wonderful rush, watching this movie on the big screen. As he did on Top Gun, he had the camera in the cockpit so we could physically see Tom Cruise and his co-stars all fly real planes. This time Kosinski goes full blast again capturing vehicular action with great commitment and once again letting the viewer witness the star of the movie, Pitt, actually drive these amazing race cars.
Pitt’s character, Sonny Hayes, once was a great driver with the world at his feet. He was going to be the next great champion. Then a horrifying accident happened and crushed all his dreams. He now lives in a van, he is a grouchy gambler who has messed up his life, but he is also looking for that one last big rush of a race as he moves from one motorsport to another. This is where his old friend Ruben (Javier Barben) comes into play. He is the owner of a struggling F1 team APXGP, he offers Sony a seat in the hopes of a win, if not he will have to sell up and lose millions of dollars. Sony is up against it with bad press, a bad car, and a clash of egos with talented rookie teammate Joshua Pearce (Damon Idris). We also get a bit of romance between Sonny and APXGP’s steely technical director Kate (Kerry Condon). Sure what woman couldn’t resist a bit of Brad Pitt. The man still has it and is a genuine movie star.
A lot of credit has to go to the filmmakers, they have produced a truly jaw-dropping film here where every second of racing action in F1 is truly immersive. The movie was shot in IMAX with a 200 million dollar budget. The budget is left on the big screen. They used groundbreaking new smaller IMAX cameras that sit in the cars putting the viewer so close to the action that they would think they are driving the car themselves. They also filmed at real life Grand Prix submerging F1 in total authenticity. If you are a fan of Formula One you will have alot of fun pointing out cameo roles from real-life drivers and engineers of the sport. The racing is truly outstanding and the viewers heart will pound and your hands will sweat as you
watch Sonny and Joshua fight it out for that number 1 position on the podium, while Hans Zimmer belts out another great movie score. It makes the whole experience of this film stand out even more.
This film was spectacular and as a viewer myself I got into my car after the film and wanted to put the foot to the floor and experience that 200 km/hr rush. This film thrilled from start to finish and I was buzzing. It’s a 2 hour 30 minute movie but it flies by. So people, buckle up and enjoy the ride. Take it easy on those bends. Enjoy the race. I had a lot of fun with this one and it gets a 4/5 from me.
See you down the road. n
enniscorthy 'Thru’ the Lens: Youth Vibes from the
in this
will include people
Being a teenager back in the 70s and 80s was a little less complicated without all the modern technologies and social media outlets that exist today. Young people created their own fun and loved hanging out and making their own entertainment at the local youth club, St. Catherine’s, Enniscorthy. Without camera-phones in those days, there’s not many photos available but over the next few months we’ll be running a selection of press photos, representing people and events during those fun-filled times. n
Top: Hostelling Group, back row L-R: Patricia Condon, Pacelli Breen, Eugene Doyle, Charlie Kearney, John Hogan, Denny O’Connor, Seamus Whitney, Ed Doran, Nuala Whitney, Bernie Morrissey, Jacinta Murphy, Sally Kehoe, Anne Thackaberry. Front L-R: Padge Courtney, Helen Kehoe, Mary Kirwan, Bernie Foley, Annette Dobbs, Nora Kirwan, Jane Carty, Willie Nolan.
Some well known faces here but can you name them all?
Some photos
series
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: The Quigley and Lawless sisters form the backbone of this very early days Ladies football team, pictured at the Town’s pitch. Above right: A youthful Madeleine Bolger, Anne Casey, Margaret Kirwan and Liz Jordan. Below left: Anne Davin and the Carty brothers pose with Jennice Murphy, William Kirwan and others in this group from the 80s. Below right: Back row L-R: Patricia McGannon, Agatha Lawless, Elaine Murphy, Kate Kenny. Front L-R: Fran O’Rourke, Claire Lawless. Coach Paddy Byrne.
Above, back row L-R: Pacelli Breen, Nuala Ronan, Ed Doran, Sean Nolan, Jack Leacy, Eugene Doyle, Bonny Kiernan, Lucy Ryan, Denis Murphy. Front: Winnie Walsh, Bernie O’Connor, John O’Connor, Christine Kiernan, Anna Murphy, Pauline Donnelly, Mick Murphy, Paddy Nolan, Bernie Watchorn.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Brazilian Junina Festival in Enniscorthy
Bellefield GAA Complex, 28th June 2025. Words by Maria
Festa Junina or June Festival, one of Brazil’s most loved and colourful events, came to Bellefield GAA Complex, Enniscorthy, on Saturday 28th June with all its joy and razzamatazz.
The Festival is in the Catholic tradition celebrated in honour of saints – Saint Anthony Feast Day 13th June, John the Baptist Feast Day 24th June and Saint Peter Feast Day 29th June, and was brought to Brazil during colonisation by the Portuguese.
The Festival marks the end of the rainy season and is a celebration of a rich harvest.
I was honoured to be asked to attend the colourful, joyful, event which saw Bellefield bedecked in wonderful displays of rich and plenty including paper lanterns, balloons, bales of straw, scarecrows, straw hats, and a cornucopia of magnificent food, corn-based dishes such as pamonha, canjica, curau, milho cozido, succulent and beautifully decorated
sweets and cakes, bolo de fuba (cornmeal cake), pe-de-moloque and lots of warm drinks containing lots of ginger and spice.
Men, women and children had gone to great efforts with their colourful and fun outfits, many wearing hats and cowboy boots and whole families dressed in similar gingham pattern – mother, father and children.
A traditional band kept everyone on the floor dancing especially for the quadrilha,
Nolan.
a traditional group folk dance that reenacts a country wedding and all the fun and laughter that goes with it along with the bride and groom.
The Festival is supported by The Communities Integration Fund and The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, and locally by Wexford Local Development and Creative Places and is a wonderful way for our Brazilian Community to come together and share their culture and traditions with members of the Enniscorthy community.
I was delighted to celebrate their wonderful day with them as they partied in the joyous Brazilian spirit with music, dance, laughter, and delicious food.
Well done to all the organisers – a huge amount of work went in to transforming Bellefield into a small piece of Brazil for one afternoon and I very much look forward to what our creative Brazilian community will come up with next. n
Above: Monique Goncalves, one of the organisers. Right: Children enjoying the festival. Below: Sheila Brito Da Silva and Julianareis Da Silva.
Above: Edineusa Ramos and Adriano Franca. Below centre: A festival for all generations. Below right: Cinovac and Antonue.
Maria Teresa Andreassa and Wellington Vilela.
Pedal Together project launched
Minister James Browne TD recently officially launched the county’s first inclusive Bike Hub initiative, ‘Pedal Together’ project, which includes adaptive cycles for riders of all abilities.
The fleet consists of a Draisin Andros Wheelchair Trike manual version, Easyrider trike 16” suitable for 4-9 year olds, and Easyrider trike 20” suitable for 9-18 year olds.
The hub, located at the Learn to Cyle Park in Enniscorthy, provides adaptive bikes tailored for children and adults with disability and mobility difficulties making cycling a possibility for all members of the community.
For more information on the use of the bikes please contact emdreception@wexfordcoco.ie n
Focus on the Fleadh
Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee has partnered with Wexapp to bring out the official Fleadh App for Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025.
Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee is pleased to announce their partnership with Wexapp for Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025. Wexapp is a family-run business operating in Wexford. The app will provide visitors to the town with up-to-date and essential information about the Fleadh including schedules of events, information on local venues, transport options and other key information required for your visit.
Key features of the app are an interactive event schedule, venue maps and directions, offline access to essential information, and information on Wexford’s best places to eat, drink and sleep.
The aim of the app is to provide visitors and locals with a one-stop shop where they can find out all that is happening during the week of the Fleadh. Local businesses are encouraged to register their listing on the App at no cost, just check out www.wexapp.ie/fleadhcheoilapp for details.
Gareth Williams, Director of WexApp, stated, “WexApp is proud to be the official app provider for Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025, Ireland’s largest traditional music festival. Our challenge
L-R: Anthony Bailey, Wexford Borough District Manager, Gareth Williams, Director WexApp, Eimear Kennedy, Fleadh PR & Marketing Committee.
was to build a comprehensive digital solution that would enhance the festival experience for attendees while providing powerful management tools for organisers.”
Eddie Taaffe, Chairperson of Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee, commented: “Wexapp has created a digital experience that perfectly complements the traditional nature of our festival, mak-
ing it accessible whether or not you are a tech-savvy attendee. The app will make life much easier for all fleadh visitors.”
All are encouraged to download the App before they arrive to the Fleadh so that they can get an idea of what is happening and where things are located.
For more information, please visit www.wexapp.ie/fleadhcheoilapp and www.fleadhcheoil.ie n
Fleadh Cheoil Fringe events to be hosted in the Enniscorthy District
Wexford Co. Council is bringing a vibrant series of events to towns and villages across the county in the lead-up to Fleadh Cheoil 2025, inviting everyone to feel the spirit of the Fleadh and join the celebration.
Enniscorthy Municipal District hosted a successful event on 22nd June involving Enniscorthy Comhaltas and Fr Murphy Comhaltas Boolavogue, at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, Enniscorthy.
Three more Fleadh Cheoil Fringe events are taking place this month: 4th July at 7pm, Ferns Comhaltas, Open Air Session, Ferns Castle & The Thatch Bar, Ferns.
4th-6th July, Enniscorthy Irish Folk and Ballad Festival at Treacys Hotel & The White House Bar.
19th July at 12.30pm, Craobh Chaoimhin Naofa CCE Bunclody Comhaltas at The Mall, Bunclody.
Full details of the Fringe Fleadh programme: www.visitwexford.ie n
The Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is coming back to Wexford from the 3rd to the 10th of August of this year and promises to be bigger and better than 2024, with over 650,000 visitors anticipated during the event.
The organisers are seeking 1,000 volunteers to assist with the smooth running of the Fleadh and with welcoming people to Co. Wexford.
WHAT A LINE UP...
Check out what's on at the White House Bar, over the Enniscorthy Irish Folk and Ballad Festival weekend:
Friday July 4th:
Rag Doll from 6pm. 1-4 to No Score from 7.30pm.
Volunteering will be at the heart of the Fleadh Cheoil’s success, and volunteers will get to be at the heart of the action during the Fleadh. Volunteers will be required for the following roles:
★ Events Stewarding
★ Competitions Stewarding
★ Street Ambassador Duties
★ Information & Customer Service Booths
★ Green Fleadh Duties
Robbie Darcy Music from 9.30pm.
Saturday July 5th:
Ruben Buggy from 7pm. Gary Og from 9.30pm.
Sunday July 6th:
Conor Kenny and Luc Power from 4.30pm (sit down session, all welcome).
Paul Watchorn from 7pm. n
When applying to volunteer, you can state your level of availability, and what roles you would consider. Volunteers do not need to be available during the entire Fleadh (3rd – 10th August). The greatest requirement for volunteers will be between the 8th and 10th of August.
Visit https://fleadhcheoil.ie/volunteering for further information and access to the volunteer portal. n
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 new website which is now live at www.enniscorthyretirement.net n
AT WAR WITH MERCY
Saturday 5th July, 8pm - 10pm, €16/14
At War With Mercy is a collaborative work between the late Canadian songwriter and poet Leonard Cohen and the writers John MacKenna and Angela Keogh. Cohen and MacKenna worked together on the requiem Between Your Love and Mine in the months before Cohen's death in 2016. The idea for At War With Mercy had been mooted at that time and now it comes to fruition.
At War With Mercy is a musical and dramatic exploration of war, peace and mercy through Leonard Cohen's songs and the stories developed by Keogh and MacKenna from Cohen's characters and writings. In a ninety-minute show, the music, characters and words reflect on the brutality of war and the healing power of peace and mercy. At War With Mercy is a tonic for the mind and soul and an affirmation of Leonard Cohen's commitment in music, words and life to peace in the world.
With singer Katie Jacques; singer/guitarist Shane Sullivan; percussionist Dave Day and actors Angela Keogh and John MacKenna, the show is a life-affirming journey that echoes with hope, warmth, redemption and peace. n
LOCAL ARTS CENTRES
Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764. Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000. Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WexfordEvents for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n
Enniscorthy beach service up and running
7PM EVERY MONDAY NIGHT
Creative Places Enniscorthy is thrilled to be supporting Enniscorthy’s new men’s choir which meets up at 7pm every Monday night at Templeshannon Community Centre.
Creative Places Enniscorthy is delighted to be working with the local community as part of this project and wants to thank Linda and Seamus for their dedication and organising. All are welcome to participate – no auditions Enjoy singing your favourite songs while making new friends Please contact 087 2930510 for more details.
For more information on Creative Places Enniscorthy please visit the website creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie
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
Kennedy Summer School 2025 announces festival dates
KENNEDY SUMMER SCHOOL
ORGANISERS ANNOUNCE FESTIVAL
DATES AND EARLY BIRD TICKETS TO THE FIRST EVENT OF THE 2025 PROGRAMME
The organisers of the 2025 Kennedy Summer School in New Ross are pleased to unveil details of the first event for this summer’s festival, with full programme details set for release in early July.
Festival Co-ordinator Sharon Doyle commented, “We are delighted to announce that the 13th annual Kennedy Summer School will take place in New Ross from August 28th to 30th, 2025. We have a vibrant and engaging programme in the works and are finalising details for several key events. One particular highlight is our opening night, where we will host one of the first public screenings of the film adaptation of the documentary series, ‘From That Small Island’. We are especially proud of this event, as the film was created by one of our own directors at the Kennedy Summer School, the acclaimed writer and filmmaker Bríona NicDhiarmada.”
This feature-length documentary, From That Small Island, is narrated by awardwinning actor Colin Farrell and features an original score by renowned composer Colm Mac Con Iomaire. The film will be
screened at St. Michael’s Theatre on Thursday, August 28th at 6.45pm.
Shot across 17 countries, from Barbados to Belgium, Singapore to Switzerland, and across the entire island of Ireland, with many highlights featured from Wexford, Waterford and Kilkenny, the film presents a compelling narrative of Irish history and influence. Contributors include former President of Ireland, Mary McAleese, among many other voices from around the globe.
Festival Director Dr. Adrian Dillon, based in New Ross, added, “Our 2025 programme is shaping up to be another fantastic three days of vibrant discussion and timely debate. The Kennedy Summer School has never shied away from difficult or complex topics. This year, we’re addressing a wide range of pressing issues—both Irish and global— with leading experts from home and abroad set to share their insights and knowledge.”
Set in President John F. Kennedy’s ancestral hometown of New Ross, County
Wexford, the Kennedy Summer School is a bold and dynamic platform for political and public discourse. Celebrated for its rich blend of historical reflection and contemporary dialogue, the festival attracts prominent figures from politics, journalism, academia, and the arts. With a focus on civic engagement and intellectual exchange, the Summer School continues to honour the legacy of JFK by fostering thoughtful leadership and informed debate.
Further programme details will be announced in the coming weeks, with the official launch of the 2025 Kennedy Summer School scheduled for 3rd July. For more information or to purchase tickets for the film screening on August 28th, please visit kennedysummerschool.ie or call St. Michael’s Theatre at 051 421255.
The Kennedy Summer School and Festival is presented in association with the Office of Public Works, New Ross District Council, Wexford County Council, Purdue University, and Fáilte Ireland. n
Co-ordinator of the Kennedy Summer School, Sharon Doyle, with Kennedy Summer School Director, Dr Adrian Dillon. The organisers of the 2025 Kennedy Summer School in New Ross are pleased to unveil details of the first event for the 2025 festival, with full programme details set for release in early July. Photo Mary Browne.
Johnstown Castle Estate to host Inaugural Garden Fair
JOHNSTOWN CASTLE ESTATE, MUSEUM & GARDENS TO HOST INAUGURAL GARDEN FAIR: A NEW CELEBRATION OF PLANTS, PEOPLE, AND PLACE
Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens in Wexford is excited to announce the launch of its very first Garden Fair, taking place on Sunday, 13th July 2025, from 10:00am to 4:00pm. This vibrant, one-day event will showcase the beauty of horticulture in one of Ireland’s most scenic and historic locations, just ten minutes from Wexford Town.
The Garden Fair promises to be a celebration of nature, plants, and the people who bring them to life. Set in the picturesque Walled Garden of Johnstown Castle, this inaugural event will feature some of Ireland’s finest plant nurseries, expert guest speakers, and a delightful range of food offerings. Attendees will be able to explore curated plant stalls, enjoy garden-themed art, and listen to inspiring talks from leading horticultural experts. Whether you’re an avid gardener or simply enjoy spending time in nature, there’s something for
everyone at this exciting new occasion.
Among the highlights are top plant nurseries offering everything from rare perennials to native Irish plants. Participating nurseries include Coldblow Nursery, Camolin Potting Shed, Kildalton College Nursery, Kilmurry Nursery, Leaf and Petal, Railstown Plants, Rare Plants Ireland, Shady Plants Nursery, and Individual Plant Nursery, as well as Johnstown Castle’s selection of home-grown plants.
In addition to the plant stalls, visitors can discover unique items from talented garden-focused creators and artists, such as botanical artist Lynn Stringer and gardenalia specialist Dee Brophy. There will also be plenty of opportunities to sit back and relax, enjoying delicious food from Eoghan’s Eats food truck, The Crazy Vegetable food truck and sweet treats from The Coffee Pot, the estate’s new coffee dock.
Throughout the day, visitors will be treated to a series of talks and presentations from leading experts in horticulture. These include Geoff Stebbings, Michael White, and Mary Reynolds, who will share their insights and tips on gar-
dening, sustainable practices, and more. A Q&A panel later in the afternoon will allow attendees to ask questions and interact with the experts.
The Johnstown Castle Garden Fair is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the stunning surroundings of the estate, from its tranquil lake walks to its beautifully restored castle interiors. The estate also houses the Irish Agricultural Museum, providing additional opportunities to explore and learn.
Irish Heritage Trust Members can enjoy free entry with an event ticket (tickets available in advance at reception or on the day) and for Non-Members: Tickets are available to pre-book online or purchase at reception on the day at €10.50. Please note: Access to the Walled Garden requires an event ticket.
Enjoy a day filled with inspiration, learning, and beauty, whether you are a gardening enthusiast or simply curious about the world of plants, the Johnstown Castle Garden Fair is sure to be an unforgettable experience. See https://johnstowncastle.ie/events n
Co. Wexford’s new Rose
Dublin comedians to invade Enniscorthy!
Enniscorthy comedian and impresario, Brendan Robinson, is bringing three of Ireland's top comedians to the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, on July 18th 2025, with recognition on the night for the icare mental health organisation.
Tickets are still available for this cracker of a show at €15 + booking fee (€17.07 total). Follow the link below or simply type Dublin Invasion into Google or Eventbrite.
The Dublin Invasion.
Date: 18 July, at 8pm.
Location: IFA Centre, Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy. https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-dublin-invasiontickets-1409387549099
Or message Brendan directly for tickets. n
A STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOGYM WITH AN UNRIVALLED VIEW!
The four-star Ferrycarrig Hotel in Wexford has announced the reopening of its newly revamped gym – The Active Club at Ferrycarrig, which has been a firm favourite for local members and residents staying at the hotel. It has been completely transformed and redesigned as part of the Griffin Group’s ongoing investment in enhancing guest services.
The gym now features the most up-to-date equipment and technology from Technogym – a global leader in innovation, performance, and ergonomic design. This cutting-edge facility is designed to deliver a transformative wellness experience, combining advanced equipment, sleek aesthetics, and a strong focus on health and fitness.
“Our Active Club is an important part of our business. We want to ensure that our gym is equipped with the best tools to support our clients' fitness goals. With our continued investment, we are ensuring the Griffin Group offers the very best fitness solution for our members here in Wexford and anyone staying at the Ferrycarrig Hotel,” said Griffin Group Director Liam Anthony Griffin.
The facility invites guests to enjoy a premium fitness experience with equipment suitable for all abilities, including treadmills, cross-trainers, rowing machines, and advanced strength systems. Digital platforms enable personalised training, while real-time performance tracking and heart-rate monitoring support a tailored workout.
The redesigned gym also features a clean, modern aesthetic,
providing a calm and motivating environment for all users. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the Slaney Estuary, bringing natural inspiration to every workout. An outdoor deck extends the space, complete with cardio machines. Seasonal classes will be offered outdoors, and a new lounge area provides an ideal setting for post-workout relaxation.
Added to the recently remodelled changing rooms and the updated sauna, steam room and experience shower, the new Technogym technology in the Active Club will actively support clients in achieving their wellness goals in an enhanced environment.
For more information or to book your stay, visit www.ferrycarrighotel.ie n
Wexford Arts Centre is delighted to host the fifth year of the One Voice Festival in association with Paul Walsh Productions. This year the theme is 'Near and Far, Reflections of Wexford' featuring original music from Gary Stephens.
The Open Call this year for ten-minute plays went beyond Wexford and the excellent submissions included this year came from Wexford, Kilkenny, Dublin and New York.
This production provides a very special evening of eight wonderful 10-minute plays of varied themes including looking for new love, lost love, adapting to a new town, grief and new experiences.
All eight plays will be performed each evening during the run of the production. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
The One Voice Festival is support funded through Wexford Co. Council's Arts Office Small Arts Festival Grant Scheme 2025.
A TERRIBLE LOVE by Keith Bruton
Performed by Seona O'Connor
A professional actress comes back to Wexford to deal with the aftermath of a tragedy. Can she reconcile both halves of herself?
SOUL CLAP by Brian Petti
Performed by Andy Doyle
An aging actor leads us through the joy and challenges of performing on stage. Heard through the words of years it brings us on a journey.
A CORK MAN ABROAD by Paula Barry
Performed by Lee Hynes
On a chance night out a Cork man falls for a beautiful Wexford woman. As he wanders the town’s winding lanes will it eventually be his home ?
THE TIME OF MY LIFE by Dick Donaghue
Performed by Linda Hynes
It's date time and the nerves are flying high. After her useless husband leaves, a woman goes on her first date in years. Will she have the time of her life?
OLD TIMES SAKE by Amy Redmond
Performed by Nicola Graham
A woman and a man stand in a graveyard sipping coffee in the early morning February cold. What brings them together and why?
LOVER by Joy Redmond
Performed by Adrienne Meyler
A woman sits in a darkened room, talking to someone she refers to as her lover. But who is it ? And what are both their intentions?
A DELICATE MATTER by Aileen O'Farrell
Performed by Rachel Hickey
An enthusiastic bright woman in the prime of her life find things starting to change. Through new experiences and lots of hot spots how will she fare?
AMIGOS by Niamh Donnellan
Performed by Tony Brennan
A hardworking family man decides it's time to retire after a lifetime of hard work and head for the Spanish sun. After an unexpected bit of bad luck can a new friend help him through?
Wexford Arts Centre Box Office 053 9123764
Open Tues-Fri 10-5:00pm and Sat 10-4:00pm.
https://wexfordartscentre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows /873656126 n
Enniscorthy Musical Society wins major national award
Enniscorthy Musical Society (EMS) was nominated for three awards at the Association of Irish Musical Theatre Societies (AIMS) national wards ceremony held last month in Killarney.
EMS was nominated for: Best Visual, Best Male Singer – Richard O'Toole as Joseph, and the Spirit of AIMS Award for Jo-
seph’s eleven brothers in the show for their comradery, energy and full-on commitment.
At the gala awards ceremony Enniscorthy was announced as the winner of the Best Visual award – congratulations to the group on this huge achievement. n
Looking for something for your child to do this summer?
Does your child love musical theatre, singing and dancing?
Then this might be the perfect thing for you – a singing and dancing workshop hosted by Enniscorthy Musical Society.
Led by amazing and experienced coaches – James Dobbs, Michaela White, and Caoimhe Boyle, and costing just €30, your child can work on their singing and dancing with EMS!
Little Guys & Dolls is for ages 6-10 years and will take place on Saturday, 12th July, from 10am-2pm in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy. Teen Guys & Dolls is for ages 11-18 years and will take place on Sunday, 13th July, from 10am-3pm in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy.
There will be a showcase at the end of each workshop for participants to show off all they have learned.
Registration couldn't be easier! Just click the link below and fill out the details, and Enniscorthy Musical Society will be in touch in due course.
https://forms.gle/mreowqRUBWDoY5UC7
Places are limited, so be sure to register early to avoid disappointment! n
Rooted Utopias: Our Future at Play
Our Future at Play
Curated by Karla Sánchez Zepeda
11th October – 1st November 2025
Wex-Art Festival Gallery at Westgate Heritage Centre
The yearly WexArt exhibition is aimed at artists working in the South East region with a particular focus on County Wexford. The aim is to give artists a platform to showcase their work during the prestigious Wexford Opera Festival, as well as the opportunity to work with different curators, such as this year’s guest curator, Karla Sánchez Zepeda.
The theme of the 2025 exhibition is Rooted Utopias: Our Future at Play.
The organisers say, “Our current world requires a re-telling of stories that incorporate other beings, human and more-thanhuman, as well as a re-imagining of structures and modes of living and doing. New and better futures grounded in nature have to be dreamed of and worked on without delay.”
This open call invites work by artists based in the South East of Ireland, with a particular focus on County Wexford, which voices what they have to say about these matters.
Artists are also encouraged to consider within their application both the space in which this exhibition is to take place, Westgate Heritage Centre, as well as the further context in which it will be presented: WexArt Festival.
A maximum of 8 artists will be selected for this group exhibition. Each will receive an exhibition fee in line with best practice.
The deadline for applications is 12pm on Monday July 14th, 2025.
To submit an application, please email the required information and images to wexfestartists@gmail.com with the subject line: Rooted Utopias.
and
She has participated in numerous educational, research and curatorial projects in Ireland. Her research interests are the environment, art education, the role of art in contemporary societies, interdisciplinary collaborative practices, and the construction of the concept of the rural.
Karla, who is also a farmer (Regenerative Agriculture), is the founder of Blackbird Cultúr-Lab, an experimental laboratory of culture that aims to generate spaces for holistic thinking where agriculture, the arts and other disciplines meet.
APPLICATION DETAILS:
Artists applying will be currently living and working in the South East region, and a particular focus for this exhibition will be on artists in County Wexford.
Artists are asked to submit no more than six examples of works in Jpeg format (with a maximum file size 3MB) and/or three links to previous projects (including films or audio works).
Artists are also asked to submit a CV, artist statement, and a brief description on each work and how they respond to the theme.
CRITERIA:
The WexArt exhibition is aimed at artists whose work responds to the theme. Artists are required to be based in the South East region and a particular preference will be given to artists based in County Wexford.
In addition, WexArt is eager to showcase work of artists who have not previously exhibited as part of WexArts Festival.
Selection of work will be based on its relevance to the theme and in consideration of the overall coherence of the group exhibition. n
Karla Sánchez Zepeda is an art historian, curator,
cultural producer.
Wexford Arts Centre is pleased to present Sync Shift, an exhibition of new drawings by artist Órla Bates in collaboration with Joanna Leah and curated by Ann Mulrooney.
The exhibition will run in the lower and upper galleries from Saturday, 14th June, to Saturday, 26th July. n
Timelines: Growth and Catastrophe
Featuring work by Muriel Beckett, Tish Canniffe, Frances Crowe, Pascale De Coninck, Lorna Donlon, Terry Dunne, Catherine Ryan, and Heather Underwood.
At Wexford County Council, Carricklawn Wexford, Y35 WY93, from 30th May to Friday, 11th July, 2025.
Wexford County Council Arts Department is excited to present Timelines: Growth and Catastrophe, a touring exhibition of fibre art which launched in 2024 as part of Culture Night celebrations at Roscommon Arts Centre. This captivating exhibition, which has toured nationwide, showcases the third collaborative work from the Timelines Tapestry Group, a talented collective of weavers and tapestry artists. It will run at Wexford County Council from Friday, 30th May to Friday, 11th July, 2025.
The centrepiece of the exhibition is a breath-taking 5-metre by 1-metre handwoven tapestry, created collaboratively by eight distinguished artists: Muriel Beckett, Tish Canniffe, Frances Crowe, Pascale De Coninck, Lorna Donlon, Terry Dunne, Catherine Ryan, and Heather Underwood. In addition to the large-scale tapestry, the exhibition features individual works by each of the artists, offering a deeper exploration of their personal artistic expressions.
Inspired by the delicate balance of opposing forces in life, Timelines: Growth and Catastrophe reflects the profound experiences we have all encountered over recent years. The art-
ists weave a narrative that juxtaposes the renewal and resilience of nature with the devastation of war and the darkness of the global pandemic. The tapestry serves as a metaphor for the tension between growth, renewal, and catastrophe, capturing the beauty and fragility of life. As nature regenerates in the aftermath of destruction and provides solace during lockdowns, the artists have infused hope into the intricate fibres of their work.
The making of the major centrepiece tapestry and accompanying film was generously supported by Creative Ireland Programmes of Wexford County Council, Roscommon County Council, Cork City Council, Cork County Council, and Laois County Council. This exhibition is a testament to the power of creative collaboration. Each artist brings their unique expertise and personal history to the collective project. n
The eight artists.
The eight artists at work.
Artist Studio Residency Opportunity in Enniscorthy
The Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy is delighted to announce that it is now accepting applications for a 12Month Artist Studio Residency between September 2025 and August 2026, supported by Wexford County Council Arts Department and Wexford Arts Centre.
This residency aims to establish long-term relationships with the successful artist through the residency programme, and provide support and mentorship to the artist as well as logistical support from The Presentation Arts Centre’s programming and technical team.
The Presentation Arts Centre is seeking artists in any visual art discipline who are motivated to engage deeply with their practice, collaborate with a wider artistic community, and share their work publicly through exhibitions, workshops and events.
With support from Wexford County Council Arts Department, an artist residency support bursary including exhibition fee will be provided for the total of €1,000 and exhibition tech support will also be provided.
This opportunity is tailored to any artists at a transitional time in their career, and may be seeking support in making work, applications and connections. The expectation is that each artist will delve deeply into their practice and learn valuable skills in exhibition organisation through the artist lead gallery programme with space and time to dedicate to their arts practice. The purpose of this award is to offer meaningful support to artists living and working in County Wexford.
Through their mission Arts For All, Arts For Life, The Presentation Arts Centre is committed to fostering an inclusive en-
vironment, and strongly encourages applications from artists of all identities, backgrounds, and abilities.
How to apply:
Please email your artist C.V. along with examples of your practice to presentationcentreenniscorthy@gmail.com with ‘Studio Residency 2025’ in the subject line of email. If sending a physical copy of your artist C.V., please deliver it to The Presentation Arts Centre, Convent Road, Enniscorthy, Y21 X889.
Deadline:
Sunday July 27th at 6pm.
Applications will be independently assessed by a selection panel, and artists will be notified of the results after August 17th 2025. n
Former studio artist Rory Draper giving a small tour during Culture Night 2023.
Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy hosts new exhibition
Lar Joyce and John Cullen’s Comharsana art exhibition is now running at The Presentation Arts Centre until 12th July 2025.
Lar Joyce is a self-taught artist based in Wexford. His artwork is significantly influenced by his youth in the countryside, where nature and animals became his main sources of inspiration. This keen focus continues to this day, and through oil and charcoal he celebrates the landscapes and wildlife of Co. Wexford and beyond.
John Cullen is a full-time artist. His oil paintings on display in this exhibition are a selection of pieces from his 'A Place To Play' series. With these paintings, John highlights the visual interest of sports fields and arenas – from the perspective of their boundaries – and how they become key markers on the landscape as beacons of community excellence and the pursuit of excellence. n
GOREY WRITER ADAPTING HER POETRY FOR MUSIC CD
Regina Redmond from Gorey is to follow up the publication of her first book of poetry Buried Deep is the Child with a second book to be published in the autumn for which she already has a fresh batch of healing poems. She has also confirmed that she is currently working on a project to adapt the poems in both collections for a musical CD in collaboration with Wexford musicians.
The CD is being produced by Hot Press music writer Jackie Hayden who lives in the south of the county.
Since publishing Buried Deep is the Child, subtitled A Healing Journey, Regina has spoken in several venues, including Gorey Library and The Solas Cabin outside Arklow.
As she herself explains, “I like to see my poems as shedding light on the path I have taken from darkness into the light of recovery following my traumatic childhood. Writing has a therapeutic value for me and publishing them was somehow liberating. Now, since the healing power of music has long been established, it seems that adding music is a logical and valuable next step for me as I continue onward on my exploratory journey with my second collection.”
News of Regina’s work has travelled as far as Mobile, Alabama, in the USA where CeCe Redmond (no relation) of the Redmond Heritage Press wrote, “Regina Redmond transforms her journey through trauma into a beacon of hope, healing, and awakening. Through courage, faith, and forgiveness, she discovered the warrior within — and now inspires others to find their light and their voice. Regina’s path reminds us that even through the darkest experiences, resilience and renewal are possible.“
Regina adds, “When I first set out on my journey to publish my poems I never dreamed it would attract such international interest and an encouragingly positive response. It’s been a hugely worthwhile and rewarding adventure for me beyond any dreams I might have had.”
Buried Deep is the Child - A Healing Journey is published by Carol Boland of Boland Press and it has resonated deeply with those who love poetry that comes from the heart. But it has also attracted a very positive and appreciative response from others who have suffered childhood trauma. n
Wexford’s library services
Wexford Public Libraries Social Media: Wexford Public Libraries on Facebook. Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries.
Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries.
YouTube: "Wexford Public Libraries" n
Online Book Club
Would you like to discuss books from the comfort of your own home? Then join in on the TEAMS App for the Wexford Libraries' Online Book Club, Wednesday, 30th July at 11am. For more information email: Jan.Doran@wexfordcoco.ie n
ooted in exford
As July rolls in, the garden truly begins to show the fruits of your early efforts. Looking back at June, many of us were focused on nurturing the early summer crops like broccoli, sweet corn, and courgettes. If you've been diligent with watering and feeding, you might already be enjoying the first signs of harvest. Courgettes in particular have a way of sneaking up on you. One day they’re tiny, the next, they’re the size of your forearm if you forget to check. It’s always a bit of a surprise, and part of the joy of growing your own food.
Now that the garden is in full swing, July is a time for both harvesting and planning ahead. Let’s start with one of the simplest and most satisfying tasks of the season: harvesting salad leaves. If you sowed lettuces and mixed greens in May or June, you’re likely looking at lush growth now. Rather than pulling up the entire plant, gently snip the outer leaves with a scissors or pinch them off with your fingers. This “cut and come again” approach allows the centre of the plant to keep growing, offering fresh salad for weeks to come.
To keep your salads coming into August and beyond, make a habit of sowing new seeds every two to three weeks. It doesn’t need to
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.
be a huge production. A few gaps in your beds or even a deep container on the patio will do. This method, called succession planting, gives you a steady supply of greens while reducing waste. Not every seed will germinate and not every plant will thrive, but nature has a way of rewarding those who show up consistently.
Speaking of rewarding crops, July is still a perfectly good time to sow carrots, especially if you’re growing a quick-maturing variety like Nantes. These are known for their sweetness and tender bite, which make them just as good raw as they are roasted. Choose a bed with soft, stone-free soil and give it a good rake through before sowing. Carrots don't appreciate being crowded, so try to sprinkle the seeds thinly. They’re tiny, so don’t stress too much if a few clump together, you can always thin them later once the seedlings appear.
After sowing, water gently to settle the soil, then keep the area moist during germination. Carrots can take a little time to appear, anywhere from 10 to 20 days. Once they’re a couple of inches tall, thin them to about two inches apart. This might feel like pulling up potential carrots, but giving them space is key to growing strong, straight roots.
If you’re in the mood to try some-
thing a bit more unusual, consider putting in a late batch of French runner beans. While many think of beans as a crop for May or June, there’s still time in July to get a good harvest if you act quickly. Look for a sunny spot, preferably one with a bit of shelter from the wind. Beans are climbers, so they’ll need something to cling to, bamboo canes, a trellis, or even some taut twine will do the trick. Sow the seeds directly into the ground and water regularly, especially once they begin to flower. The flowers themselves are often a beautiful bonus before the pods arrive. Pick the beans young, when they’re tender and the seeds inside are still small.
July is also the perfect time to sow crops that will feed you well into autumn and even winter. Perpetual spinach and rainbow chard are two leafy greens that deserve a space in your garden this month. Perpetual spinach isn’t actually spinach at all, but a type of chard that acts a lot like it. It's reliable, fast-growing, and hardy enough to survive a light frost. Rainbow chard, with its vibrant red, yellow, and orange stems, adds a visual splash to any vegetable bed and looks almost too pretty to pick.
Both crops prefer rich, welldrained soil and will be quite happy in partial shade if your
sunny beds are already full. Sow the seeds directly into the soil about half an inch deep and keep them spaced a foot apart. Once they’re up and growing, water regularly and harvest the outer leaves first. This will keep the plants productive for months.
It’s also worth taking a few moments this month to pause and simply enjoy the garden. July tends to be one of the busiest times for gardeners, but it’s also one of the most beautiful. Whether you’re pulling weeds, harvesting a handful of salad, or just wandering between the rows with a cup of tea in hand, there’s something deeply grounding about being out there among the plants.
So, whether you’re snipping your first lettuce leaves, tucking carrot seeds into the soil, or watching your bean plants climb skyward, take a little time to appreciate the process. The garden doesn’t need perfection... it just needs your attention. And if you’re looking for more ideas or want to see how things are growing in my own garden, you can always find me over on Instagram @rootedinwexford.
Here’s to a bright, busy, and bountiful July. n
Enniscorthy company wins major award
Enniscorthy company allirelandfoods.ie was honoured last month to be named Online Retailer of the Year by the All Ireland Business Foundation.
Pictured is founder, Joe Murphy, proudly accepting the award from Margaret Considine, President of Chambers Ireland. n
A welcome addition to the Enniscorthy Farmers’ Market
It’s aways great to see new traders joining the Farmers’ Market every Saturday morning, 9am until 2pm, in the Abbey Square, Enniscorthy.
The latest addition is the Cosy Cup by Dessert Delights coffee van which is all about quality coffee, sweet treats, and a warm, welcoming vibe – perfect for anyone looking to sip something special while enjoying the market atmosphere.
So why not stop by and say hello, grab a cuppa, and enjoy the wonderful market.
Pics courtesy of: https://www.facebook.com/enjoyenniscorthy n
The Holy Grail opens in Bunclody
Best wishes to Biju, his brothers, and all the team at The Holy Grail on the recent opening of their Bunclody restaurant and bar – their fifth outlet in Co. Wexford –which is a remarkable success story.
Follow ‘The Holy Grail Bunclody Restaurant & Bar’ on Facebook, tel: 053 937 6617, and to contact by email: theholygrailbunclody@gmail.com n
Lots on at the Allotments
We are grateful as always to Gillian O’Neill, Secretary at Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA), for keeping us updated with all the news and photos from the multi-award-winning facility in Enniscorthy...
Our beautiful allotments has never looked better, all our members are making the most of this fabulous weather and are busy nurturing their gardens and enjoying the beautiful holistic space we have here.
We were approved for the Local Waste Prevention grant recently and with this grant we hope to restore unwanted tools to reuse for our members. If you have any tools that we could restore please leave them into shed reception. All support is greatly appreciated.
We featured in the Irish Times last month for taking part and being overall winner in the Climate Action competition. We were
delighted to take part in the great initiative set up by Global Action Plan Ireland and Wexford County Council. It was fantastic to see Enniscorthy getting positive national news.
We were absolutely thrilled to also feature in the 100th issue of Irish Country Magazine last month. The article is a beautiful piece with fabulous photos giving people a little taste of allotment life and what our fabulous allotments means to us all. It was fantastic to be recognised nationally once again, it not only highlights our wonderful resource but it also shines a very positive light on our beautiful town. We are very grateful to Mairead Lavery and the Irish Country Magazine team for the amazing article.
We have a free advanced Willow Weaving course starting in the allotments on Tuesday 15th July from 7pm - 9pm for 6 weeks
It is important to maintain a healthy garden by watering deeply especially in warm weather.
Check for signs of underwatering like wilting or dry soil.
Sow seeds for quick-growing crops like lettuce or radish for summer salads.
Plant out your winter cabbage and leeks.
with the fabulous Sindy Offer. If you are interested in taking part please contact Anna by message only on 086 4058163. Spaces are limited. This is the second course Sindy will be doing in the allotments this year, she just finished an introductory willow weaving course which everyone thoroughly enjoyed.
The FDYS is doing an art project with the theme biodiversity. All art pieces will be displayed in the allotments. If your little Artist would be interested in taking part please contact Pili on 087 7817059. Kids of all ages are welcome to take part.
We are all looking forward now to a butterfly and fairy family day at the weekend organised by our event organisers. The little buds will be planting and we will have open mic performances by some of the kids in the FDYS, it promises to be another great afternoon in the allotments. n
ECA
Gardening Tips...
Pinch out side shoots on tomatoes to focus plant energy on fruit production.
Keep on top of weeds as they compete with your plants for resources.
Harvest garlic and onions when the leaves turn yellow and flop over.
Top up bird baths and ponds especially in hot weather.
Use harvested rain water for your plants if possible.
Congratulations to Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA) on their recent victory in the Climate Action competition run by Wexford Co. Council which highlighted the little things that everyone can do to reduce their carbon footprint. ECA won their own category and were also the overall winners.
Pictured above is ECA’s Michael Devereux relaxing at the allotments after their victory.
Brennan’s new venture
Best of luck to Brennan’s pub in Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, with their takeover of the Blackwater Lodge in Blackwater village.
Keeping Paolo’s memory alive
Family and staff gathered at Via Veneto to remember the late Paolo Fresilli.
Last month a poignant gathering took place in Via Veneto restaurant in Enniscorthy to mark six months since the sad passing of its much-loved owner and head chef Paolo Fresilli.
Paolo’s partner Diana fondly remarked, “Half a year and it feels like yesterday that we last saw him. Time has not made it any easier to process the loss. The restaurant is full of daily reminders of him, whether it is his trinkets that fill every crevice, or all his pictures over the years. As many of you have told us, Paolo’s presence is strong. We know he is here next to us,
laughing along, or giving out, just like he always did, for minor changes made to his dishes!
“Myself and Asia cannot thank every single one of you enough for reaching out, for keeping Paolo alive in your stories, for your support, and for your understanding. From the bottom of our hearts, we sincerely appreciate every single one of you. To quote Paolo, the restaurant was not created with the intent to just ‘serve food’. It was created to serve you, our extended family, an experience where it felt like home. We hope that we can continue in doing just that, and to bring our Paolo’s legacy forward.” n
Wexford Chamber wins national awards
County Wexford Chamber is absolutely delighted to have taken home two prestigious awards at this year’s Chambers Ireland Awards, held on Thursday, June 5th.
The Chamber won the Supporting Business Award for the successful integration of Enniscorthy & District Chamber. And it also won the Digital Campaigns Award for the launch of the County Wexford Shop Local Gift Card.
These achievements reflect the power of collaboration and community spirit. The Chamber extends its appreciation to its Board members Lorcán Kinsella, Brendan Crowley, and Ed Murphy for their instrumental roles in the integration process. And they also want to thank the wider business community and Chamber members who rallied behind this initiative in 2024 – this support made all the difference.
The County Wexford Shop Local Gift Card was a true team effort, delivered just in time for Christmas 2024. Since its launch, it has generated an incredible €600,000 in sales, proving its value to our local economy. A heartfelt thank you to the businesses and individuals who have used the scheme to gift employees and loved ones and to the nearly 200 outlets now accepting the card.
The Chamber also wishes to recognise the ongoing support of Wexford County Council, and to thank Chambers Ireland for a fantastic awards ceremony, and acknowledge MC Ivan Yates for his insightful comments and generous remarks at last month’s awards ceremony.
County Wexford Chamber remains committed to working for sustainable economic development and prosperity across County Wexford.
The awards ceremony was held at the Killashee Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare, on Thursday, June 5th. County Wexford Chamber was represented by Board member Lorcan Kinsella, CEO Paula Roche, and Development Officers Anne Dwyer and Deirdre O’Flynn.
Read more here about the successes of County Wexford Chamber here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/12L WE84rHDq/?mibextid=wwXIfr n
County Wexford Chamber BBQ
County Wexford Chamber invites you to join a delightful evening of relaxation and networking at the Riverbank House Hotel in Wexford town. This event promises to be an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues and friends in a delightful setting. Thursday, July 17th, 5.30pm, Riverbank House Hotel, Ferrybank, Wexford. Tickets €25pp including a delicious selection of BBQ foods, salads, teas/coffees. Drinks available to purchase.
This is a wonderful opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow members.
Register online for this event on the Chamber’s website at: www.countywexfordchamber.ie n
Pictured accepting the Supporting Business Award at the Chambers Ireland Awards 2025 are L-R: Margaret Considine, President of Chambers Ireland; Lorcan Kinsella, Director, County Wexford Chamber; Paula Roche, CEO, County Wexford Chamber; and Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions, Zurich.
Are you ready to take your new product or service to new markets? Then get ready for take off with the new Market Explorer Grant. Providing a grant of up to €10,000 for market research, in-market consultancy and industry events, this can help bring your business to new heights! For more information contact one of the Local Enterprise Office Wexford team today: Annette Rowsome or Jill Kelleher, or visit LEO’s website for more information: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/ n
Worried about new tariffs?
Here’s How LEO Wexford Can Help Your Business
Uncertain about how new tariffs will impact your small business? Your Local Enterprise Office Wexford is here to support you with expert advice and tailored programmes to help you navigate these challenges. ✅ Get Exporting – Learn how to successfully export your goods and services.
✅ Market Explorer Grant – Funding to help you explore and expand into new markets. ✅ Export Business Advisor – Get one-on-one guidance from an expert in international trade.
Local Enterprise Office Wexford is there to help your business thrive. Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie. Tel: 053 9196020. n
Enniscorthy company sweeps the boards at global beauty awards
Based in Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, Holos Skincare took home an incredible 14 awards at the 2025 Global Green Beauty Awards!
Gold:
Best Vegan Face Oil - ABC Active A Oil Serum
Best Vegan Hand Product - This is More Multi-Use Plant Oil
Best Aluminium Packaging - Super Natural Activity Pre & Probiotic Spritz
Silver:
Best Vegan Beauty Product - ABC Active C Creamy Gel Serum
Best 100% Plant-Based Beauty Product - Super Natural Activity
Triple Lipid Replenish Cream
Best Argan Product - ABC Active A Oil Serum
Best Vegan Purifying Cleanser - Super Natural Activity AHA Deep Cleansing Cream/Masque
Bronze:
Best Shea Butter Product - This is More Get Better Butter
Best Vegan Skin Mist - Super Natural Activity Pre & Probiotic Spritz
Best Vegan Eye Product - This is More Facial & Eye Serum
Best Vegan Collagen Product - ABC Active Oil Serum
Highly Commended:
Best Natural Anti-Blemish Product - ABC Active B Gel Serum
Best 90%+ Natural Product - ABC Active C Creamy Gel Serum
Best Vegan Face Oil - This is More Multi-Use Plant Oil
Holos is delighted with the support it receives from its clients and is “thrilled to keep bringing you award-winning skincare that you love. It means the world to see our products recognised with these incredible awards.” n
Upskilling, training, growing talent
Local businesses and professionals recently participated in the “Upskilling Your Staff: How to Access Funded Training & Grow Local Talent” Learn at Lunch event last month in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.
This event was designed to connect employers of all sizes with key training and funding bodies across Wexford, highlighting just how straightforward it is to access a wide range of funded training opportunities to support staff development and talent growth.
An incredible line-up of participating training and funding organisations included:
Local Enterprise Office (Jill Kelleher). County Wexford Chamber Skillnet. Kathryn Bermingham and Marie Esmonde, Senior Training Advisors, WWETB.
Neil Quinlan, Head of Lifelong Learning, SETU Waterford Campus.
Jonthan Looby, GreentechHQ. Rose Slattery, Department of Social Protection.
Ben Brosnan, Bodibro, attended on behalf of the Local Enterprise Office, Wexford.
Edmond Connolly, CEO of South East Regional Skills Forum, expertly guided
the panel discussion and energised the room.
William Butler and team at the Riverside Park Hotel did a wonderful job supporting the event and providing the hospitality. n
Unlock Government Support to Grow Your Business.
Starting or expanding your business? Discover the new National Enterprise Hub (NEH), designed to simplify access to government resources. The NEH provides a single platform for over 250 supports from 30 government bodies.
The website features a user-friendly search tool to connect you with the grants, funding, training, and expert advice you need. Plus, a dedicated Hub team is ready to provide personalised assistance. Visit: www.neh.gov.ie or call (01) 727 2100.
Proudly supported by the Government of Ireland. n
Some of the attendees at the “Upskilling Your Staff: How to Access Funded Training & Grow Local Talent” event in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy. Pic: zamfirphoto.com
Dogs Trust issues hot weather advice for dog owners
With recent record temperatures across Europe and the potential for very hot weather this summer in Ireland, the Dogs Trust charity has issued some good advice to follow for any hot periods.
Dog owners should walk their dogs during cooler mornings and evenings to prevent heatstroke which can be fatal. Dogs aren’t able to handle the heat as easily as people can, and high temperatures can quickly become dangerous, and potentially fatal.
Exercise is one of the biggest risk-factors for dogs developing heatstroke with more than two-thirds of cases occurring from simply walking in the heat. Dogs Trust recommends walking dogs in the cooler times of the day such as early morning or later in the evening when temperatures aren’t as high. The charity also advises
owners to keep walks short, bring plenty of water for your dog to drink, and take breaks in the shade if needed.
While all dogs are susceptible to heatstroke, certain breeds with flatter faces such as Bulldogs and Pugs can be up to
fourteen times more likely to be affected. Dogs Trust is also warning owners with older dogs, overweight dogs, or dogs with underlying health conditions to remain extra vigilant during the warmer summer months, as these dogs are more likely to struggle with the increased temperatures.
Dogs need to be kept cool while at home too. Make sure they also have access to plenty of cool, fresh water throughout the day to keep them hydrated.
The charity is also reiterating the ever-important message to never leave dogs alone in a hot car. They say that parking in the shade or rolling down the windows does little to alleviate the heat, so never take the risk.
For more: DogsTrust.ie/HotWeather n
South East Animal Rescue rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes animals in the South East of Ireland. It is looking for friendly, enthusiastic volunteers to join its Charity Shop team at 27 Court Street, Enniscorthy.
If interested, drop in between 10am and 3pm, Monday to Friday, and speak to Evelyn to find out more. No retail experience is needed – just a willingness to help!
All proceeds at the Enniscorthy shop go towards helping animals in Wexford.
So, make a difference, and volunteer today!
And don’t forget, the shop always has lots of bargains so drop in for a look around any time.
Keep up to date on their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064583773930 n
The more I see and work with animals, the more I realise how much we have under-estimated what abilities and gifts they bring with them.
As we have become more affluent, we have begun to take a different view on our animals. Pets now are treated as part of the family. Horses are similar in some households, the riding pony, show-jumping ponies and horses from a bond with their rider that is sometimes life changing for the child.
Countless stories are told of how the child becomes ill or struggles mentally or socially and the one thing that helps them through these tough times is the unbreakable bond with their animal. This bond is more than just friendship, it’s a meeting of minds and peacefulness. This resonance is beyond thought. It’s heartfelt and studies are now proving that this “heart resonance” is up to two times stronger than brain wave activity.
When we are struggling mentally, physically and/or emotionally, the animals pick up on this. They’re not looking to see what hair-do we have in the morning, they’re reading our aura, our energy field, and pick up on if we are happy or sad, scared or worried. Not only that but in my experience anyway they help take this stress from us by sharing the load.
with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
Dogs show us unconditional love every day. If we haven’t seen them for two hours or ten days, we get the same enthusiastic greeting every time.
Treating dogs using energy medicine it has become clear that they act like a sponge, absorbing the stresses that we carry each day, and they help in their subtle but profound way to bring us back into balance.
They are heart-centred and guide us back to this place within us that that got shut down maybe as far back as childhood. Using energy medicine techniques you are looking to address the underlying cause not necessarily the presenting symptom.
Conventional medicine looks to the symptom and helps alleviate this. Complementary medicine is looking to the deeper issues.
I am now coming to an understanding that is where our companion animals, be they dogs, cats , horses or guinea pigs, they are working on a deep level too.
This is part of the reason such unshakeable bonds build up between owners and their pets. It’s heart warming to see this wonderful energy between people and animals but we need to look at our animals in a whole new light…. if this is how much they can help us and how much they can bring to the table. They are patiently waiting for us to awaken… to a new dawn of co-creating heaven on earth. n
If you have a topic you’d like Joe Kavanagh to address please email Slaney News at: slaneynews@gmail.com
OPENING HOURS (6 DAYS A WEEK):
9.00am–1.00pm and 2.00pm–6.00pm
Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment):
The Honda Jazz has long been a favourite on Irish roads, and the latest one continues that legacy, now as a hybrid. Starting from €31,495, the Jazz range includes several trims and underneath its modest looks lies one of the most competent and surprisingly fun small hybrids on sale today.
The Jazz’s soft, rounded exterior styling might not turn heads, but it’s neat and functional all the same. The Crosstar model adds rugged styling cues and roof rails, while the Advance Sport trim introduces sportier details like 16-inch alloy wheels, black wing mirror caps, rear spoiler and a tailpipe with chrome finish.
Inside, the Jazz impresses with its clever layout, quality materials and solid build. The Advance model brings premium features like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and upgraded upholstery. Step up to Advance Sport and you get sport pedals, a leather steering wheel with yellow stitching and paddles to adjust regenerative braking. All versions come with a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, climate control and parking camera.
Rear legroom is among the best in class, although the rear bench is more comfortable for two because it's still quite a narrow car. Isofix mounts are included on the two outer seats. The standout practicality feature is Honda’s ‘Magic Seats’ that allow the rear seat bases to flip upright or fold fully flat. It opens up the back of the car for an impressive, flexible space for carrying bulky or tall items.
The boot offers 304 litres of space: smaller than the previous generation but still good with a deep load area, low sill and hidden underfloor compartment. Folding the rear seats (60:40 split) creates a flat load floor, thanks again to the Magic Seats.
Power comes from a 1.5-litre petrol engine and two electric motors working together through a fixed gear transmission. With 122hp, the
Jazz is brisk enough (0–100km/h in 9.4 seconds), but more importantly, it feels smooth and responsive. Drive modes help tailor the experience slightly.
Where the Jazz really surprises is in its handling – it feels agile, composed and stays flat through bends. That fun-to-drive factor, paired with a comfortable ride, makes it one of the most wellrounded small cars for both town and longer journeys.
In Ireland, prices start at €31,495 for the Elegance model, rising to €33,495 for the Advance, and €34,950 for either the Advance Sport or Crosstar Advance. While not the cheapest in its segment, the level of standard equipment, safety tech, and Honda’s reputation for long-term reliability are appealing. The Honda Jazz Hybrid is a cleverly engineered and highly practical compact car that delivers far more than its understated looks suggest. It’s one of the best small hybrid cars on sale, smooth, refined, and surprisingly fun to drive, while clever features like the Magic Seats make it incredibly versatile too. n
CARS, VANS, 4X4, TRUCKS, TRACTORS, MARINE, QUADS, LAWNMOWERS AND GENERATORS. WE REPAIR ALL UNITS. ALL APPLICATIONS CATERED FOR. Island Road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9235933.
GOLF CLASSIC IN MEMORY OF TOM MAGUIRE – SUPPORTING MOTOR NEURONE DISEASE...
All are invited to support a special event – the Motor Neurone Golf Classic being held on Friday, 4th July 2025, in memory of Tom Maguire, a valued member of Enniscorthy Golf Club and a respected figure in the Enniscorthy business community.
This fundraising event will raise vital funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, a cause that affects many families and which continues to need our help.
There are a number of ways you or your business can support this event:
• Enter a Team: €240 per team, which includes golf and dinner.
• Sponsor a Tee Box or Green: €50 each.
• General Sponsorships or Raffle Prizes: Any level of support is welcome and greatly appreciated.
Your contribution, no matter the size, will help make this event a success and ensure much needed funds go directly to supporting those affected by Motor Neurone Disease.
If you are in a position to support this event, or would like further information, please contact Stasia (086) 1923326, Mary (087) 6506216, Louise (087) 6624092, John (083) 4535701, or Lora (086) 8172678. n
Enjoy a night at the dogs at Enniscorthy Track
Racing is on two nights a week, Mondays and Thursdays, at Enniscorthy Greyhound Track – a great way to spend an evening with friends or family.
First race starts at 8pm. Admission is €10 per adult (incl. race card), €8 for OAP/student (incl. race card). Under 14s go free.
Bar and cafe facilities on site, plus Chester’s chip van. Tote and bookmaker betting facilities on site. https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthygreyhound.track n
Sports Active
Sports Active Wexford is all about creating a healthier, safer, more active and inclusive society in Co. Wexford. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SportsActive n
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 smooth-faced paddle to hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball over a 34-inchhigh (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. Astro Active Centre, Bellefield, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 923 6678. Email: astroactive@reachability.ie n
Eire Season raises €4,500 for the Bukky Foundation
Eire Season is proud to share that €4,500 has been raised in support of the Bukky Foundation, a charity founded in memory of Olubukoye “Bukky” Abidoye. The foundation was created to support families who have experienced the sudden loss of a loved one – offering emotional, financial, and practical help in their time of need.
The Bukky Foundation stands as a legacy of compassion, ensuring that no family has to face grief alone. Donations go directly toward counseling services, emergency financial aid, and day-today support such as childcare and meal assistance.
Eire Season 003 – A Historic Night in Dublin Boxing:
Eire Season 003 became one of Dublin’s most talked-about boxing cards, featuring a lineup of standout talent. The night included appearances from El Paco, rising star Jackson “Taz” Bright, and Keith Whelan, also known as the Tallaght Torondo. Founder and fighter, Enniscorthy’s Mick Abidoye, also took centre stage, proudly representing both the sport and the cause (see photo opposite).
The event received powerful backing from big names such as Peter Fury, Sam Jones, Michael Conlan, and Mick’s coach, Kevin Armstrong, former European champion – among many other respected figures in the boxing community.
This unforgettable night showcased not only incredible fights but also the heart of a community rallying behind a meaningful cause.
Mick Abidoye thanks the sponsors – Nano the Barber, Five Palm, Fearmaxo, and Senior Man Photography – for their vital support in making this event possible. n
John Bolger Billiards Cup/Plate
The last tournament of the season in Bree was contested in recent weeks, on a knockout basis.
Cup: 16 players entered, with the matches decided by the first to reach a score of 200, including full handicaps. On May 26th, Bill Cahill (+95 ) and Tommy Butler (+45 ) met in the final. It was all to play for when both players moved into the 170+ scoreline together. With the match poised at 193/192 in favour of Tommy, Bill held his nerve with a break of 8 to clinch the title by 200/193. Beaten semi-finalists were Jack Kinsella (+100) and Patrick Leacy (+10).
Plate: All 8 players who lost first round matches in the Cup were entered into an open draw for the Plate. The final was held on May 19th, with Ray Cullen (-10) taking on Mark Dunne (+25). The match levelled out at 66/65, but then Ray began to
open his lead, and went on to win on a scoreline of 200/103. Beaten semi-finalists were Jimmy O'Brien (+65) and John Wilson (+5). The overall highest break (29) was claimed by Patrick Leacy. A word of thanks to club member Michael Fitzpatrick, who kindly sponsored this trophy.
– Pat Bolger, P.R.O., Bree Billiards & Snooker Club
L-R: Patrick Leacy, Tommy Butler, John Bolger (Chairman), Bill Cahill.
L-R: Mark Dunne, John Bolger (Chairman), Ray Cullen.
L-R: Patrick Leacy, Michael Fitzpatrick.
History comes alive at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre
Words by Maria Nolan, pics on pages 108-109
Kelly the Boy from Killanne:
The official opening of the 1798 Remembrance Weekend of Events was launched at the 1798 Centre on Friday 20th June with a very special presentation.
A new portrait of John Kelly from Killanne by world renowned artist Jim Fitzpatrick was unveiled at the launch by 1798 Manager Mico Hassett and Deputy Johnny Mythen TD.
Artist Jim Fitzpatrick, who is known internationally for his famous portrait of Che Guevara, was unable to attend the event in person due to medical issues but spoke passionately via video link of his love of Wexford and all things 1798 and said how very honoured he is to be able to present his painting of this iconic figure to the 1798 Centre where it will be on public display.
The portrait is accompanied by an account of the Battle of Ross, 5th June 1798, by local author Des Kiely.
Both Manager Mico Hassett and Deputy Mythen thanked Jim for his very generous donation of the painting of ‘this larger than life hero John Kelly central to the county’s history and heritage’ and called on well known traditional singer Niall Wall to give a rendition of the song Kelly the Boy from Killanne.
Manager Mico thanked all for attending the event especially District Manager Claire Lawless and Councillors Pat Kehoe and Trish Byrne and outlined the programme of events for the Vinegar Hill Day 21st June and Rebellion Day 22nd June before bringing the launch to a conclusion.
The paintin, Kelly the Boy from Killanne, is now on display at the 1798 Centre.
Battle of Vinegar Hill –The Longest Day:
The longest day, 21st June, commenced with a series of events organised by
Manager Mico Hassett and Assistant Manager Eve Furlong of the 1798 Centre, including a walking tour of Enniscorthy’s 1798 historic locations by local historian Barry Lacey, followed by historic talks from Dr. Elaine Callinan who dealt with the global background and philosophy to the 1798 Rebellion, Myles Courtney who gave a detailed account of the Battle of Ross which took place on 5th June 1798, and Dr. Ida Milne who shared her marvellous collection of family letters from the period.
At 4.30pm Jacqui Hynes conducted a tour on the Hill titled ‘Vinegar Hill –survey of a battlefield’ which was followed by the annual Battle of Vinegar Hill Commemoration.
The 227th Commemoration began with the Ballindaggin Pipe Band leading a parade of re-enactors from Enniscorthy, Monageer, Carrigbyrne, and Oulart on to the Hill where MC, his-
torian Bernard Browne, introduced the Chairman of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council Aidan Browne to address the gathering and lay a wreath for all the dead of the Hill.
Emily Murphy laid a wreath on behalf of Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society.
Prayers were offered for the fallen by Canon Nicola Halford and Rev Billy Caulfield, and Jacqui Hynes gave an address on the weaponry used on that longest day in 1798 pointing out where each of the canon were positioned.
The Wexford anthem Boolavogue was sung by Niall Wall, Tim Corrigan, Noel Armstrong and Seamus Murphy, and the solemn and moving ceremony concluded with Amhran na bhFiann played by the Ballindaggin Pipe Band.
Rebellion Day:
On Sunday 22nd June Rebellion Day took place in the grounds of the 1798 Centre where Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society set up camp as Redcoats and Rebels and interacted with the many interested visitors anxious to hear more of the history of Vinegar Hill, Enniscorthy, and the Rising.
Re-enactors displayed the weaponry of the period along with giving live demonstrations of musket, pistol, and canon firing throughout the day.
Music was provided by Padraig Sinnott and his traditional group and the Enniscorthy Branch of Comhaltas.
John Foley, blacksmith, demonstrated how pikes were fashioned and made for the Rising, and art and craft stalls displayed a variety of wares.
Teas, coffees and lunches were available from Café 98 helping to make the day a most informative and enjoyable one despite the intermittent showers. n
Johnny Mythen TD who spoke at the unveiling of the new John Kelly portrait at The National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy on 20th June 2025.
Above: Anne Ringwood and former Mayor of Wexford John Roche welcoming Minister James Browne TD.
Above right:
Minister James Browne TD laying the first wreath during the ceremony.
Below:
Minister Browne addresses the attendees.
Commodore John Barry memorial and wreath laying ceremony
Crescent Quay, Wexford, 29th June 2025
Below left: The local Scouts.
Below right: The Presentation Party including Minister Browne and Cllr Catherine Walsh, Mayor of Wexford.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Bottom left: Wexford's Holy Family Confraternity Band.
Right: John Roche receives a copy of the first John Barry ceremony programme from 1956.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Minister James Browne TD addressing the attendees.
Above L-R: Anne Ringwood, Davy Martin, and former Councillor and former Mayor of Wexford John Roche. Below left: John Flower, Louise Evan, former Cllr Phil Roche, Anne Ringwood and John Roche.
Minister James Browne TD receives a Guard of Honour.
Above left: Some of the general public who attended the event. Above right: The Loch Garman Band under conductor Ger Lawlor. Below left: Some of the guests. Below right: Minister James Browne TD, Naval Officer John Colgan, the Mayor of Wexford Catherine Walsh, and Verona Murphy TD, Ceann Comhairle of Dáil Éireann.
Remembering 1798
History and heritage come alive at The National 1798 Rebellion Centre
The National 1798 Rebellion Centre held its annual Commemoration Weekend on 21st and 22nd June 2025, with a rich programme of historical reflection, community participation, and cultural celebration.
Mico Hassett, Manager of the 1798 Rebellion Centre, welcomed a distinguished audience to the Centre on 20th June to get this special weekend underway. Attendees included Sinn Féin TD Johnny Mythen, Councillors Pat Kehoe and Patricia Byrne, Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager Claire Lawless, along with guests and supporters from across the region.
In her opening address, Mico provided an overview of the weekend’s events, including the ever-popular Summer School, guided historical walks and talks, tours led by local historians and authors, the Longest Day Ceremony on the following day on Vinegar Hill, and the Rebellion Day at the Centre on Sunday 22nd June, featuring reenactments and immersive history experiences.
A standout moment at the wel-
come event on 20th June was the unveiling of a powerful new portrait of John Kelly (‘The Boy from Killanne’) by iconic Irish artist Jim Fitzpatrick. Known internationally for his legendary Celtic artwork and iconic illustrations of figures such as Che Guevara, Fitzpatrick’s work is deeply embedded in Irish visual culture. To now house a permanent
piece by Fitzpatrick at the 1798 Centre is both a cultural honour and a fitting tribute to one of Wexford’s most heroic figures.
1798 Centre Board Member Niall Wall marked the unveiling with a moving rendition of Kelly the Boy from Killanne, followed by a reflection from Johnny Mythen TD on Fitzpatrick’s contribution to Irish heritage through his art.
Although unable to attend in person, Jim Fitzpatrick joined the event via Zoom, sharing fond childhood memories of visiting Wexford with his mother – an experience that sparked a lifelong fascination with the region’s revolutionary past. These early impressions laid the foundation for his decision to capture the spirit of John Kelly through paint.
The newly unveiled portrait will now take pride of place in the 1798 Centre’s permanent exhibition, accompanied by text from Des Kiely's book 'Famous Wexford People in History', offering visitors a striking artistic homage to one of Ireland’s most storied rebellions. n
Above left and above right: Mico Hassett (Manager of 1798 Centre) and Johnny Mythen TD unveil the new painting of John Kelly.
Right: Cllrs Pat Kehoe and Patricia Byrne.
Left: Niall Wall sings Kelly the Boy from Killanne.
Below right: Dan Walsh (Wexford Local), Claire Lawless (Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager), Frank Corcoran (Slaney News).
Bottom left: Maria Nolan (author, re-enactor), Mico Hassett (Manager of 1798 Centre), Des Kiely (author), Johnny Mythen TD.
Bottom right: Artist Jim Fitzpatrick speaking to the attendees at the 1798 Centre via Zoom.
Ferns Castle’s Free Medieval Re-enactment Day!
Join Ferns Castle and Déise Medieval on Sunday, 6th July 2025, from 12 noon to 5pm, for an unforgettable journey into our medieval past. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and battles of the era. Enjoy live re-enactments where skilled warriors clash in thrilling combat demonstrations, showcasing medieval weaponry and tactics.
Historical Crafts: Discover ancient skills with displays of spinning, weaving, arrow making, woodwork, etc by expert artisans.
Medieval Village: Explore a bustling encampment with costumed re-enactors, bringing the medieval era of Ferns village to life.
Guided Castle Tours: Climb the southeast tower for stunning views and hear tales of the castle’s rich past.
Family Fun: Enjoy medieval games, and hear stories from the medieval reenactors. n
Wexford Co. Council seeks to recruit a historian
Do your town a favour
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
Please note...
To log a report regarding any dumping, street litter, road oil spills and potholes, ring Wexford Council on (053) 919 6000 or email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
You will receive a log number to refer to if you need to call again.
You can also ask to register for group or individual cleanups of your environment.
Ferns leads the way
A massive 50,100 units per month are currently being recycled at the Re-turn point in Centra Ferns, and this figure is increasing month by month – a true testament to the community helping to protect our environment by playing their part in leading us towards a more sustainable future by valuing our resources and increasing recycling rates.
Did you know? A plastic bottle can be recycled up to seven times and aluminium cans may be recycled infinitely.
Ferns Tidy Towns volunteers have also noted a huge reduction in litter along the roads during their litter picks and noticed more members of the community stopping and picking up plastic bottles and cans from the street.
With the support of the Environment Department of Wexford County Council, Mutt Mitt bag dispensers and bins have been installed in Ferns village. These dispensers contain easy to use biodegradable bags to dispose of your dog’s poo. So no excuses! Bag it and bin it!!
Another step towards a cleaner and more sustainable Ferns. n
Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA) has been approved for a Local Waste Prevention Grant, which it will use to restore unwanted tools for reuse by its members.
So have a look around your house/shed for tools that ECA can restore, and please leave them at the ECA shed reception. n
Calling all community group, voluntary group and club treasurers
Please keep in mind Wexford County Council's Community Grant & Funding webpage when looking to source details of community grant and funding schemes that may be relevant to climate action measures.
This webpage is a valuable source of information detailing what schemes are currently available, terms and conditions etc., and very importantly.....deadlines!
To access the webpage, please click here: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/community-grants-and-funding n
Let’s keep our county clean –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
Two sources of climate action funding
Is your community group looking to lower energy costs and reduce carbon emissions?
The SE Systems Community Fund Summer Call is here to help! It supports non-profits, charities, and voluntary organisations in delivering impactful energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that create longterm benefits for communities across Ireland.
For Summer 2025, €500,000 in funding is being made available to help organisations future-proof their buildings through sustainable energy upgrades.
Click here for further further details and how to apply: https://sesystems.ie/communityfund/c ommunity-fund-summer-call/
Community Climate Action Programme Funding (Round 2)
The Community Climate Action Programme (CCAP) is a programme to support communities to take climate action at a local level. Wexford County Council in association with the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC), will provide funding to communities for projects that
promote community climate action.
Round 2 funding of the CCAP is expected to be announced by the DECC towards the end of quarter 3, 2025.
Any community groups interested in
submitting an application under Round 2 are advised to contact Community Climate Action Officer, Sandra Martin at climateaction@wexfordcoco.ie in advance of this announcement for advice. n
BALSAM BASHING BATTLE
Friday 13th June saw a very successful collaboration between Enniscorthy Community Alliance, Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, staff of the AIB Bank, staff of Holos Skincare, and members of the Public Participation Network.
The group organised to pull up Himalayan Balsam plants growing on the Urrin Loop of the Promenade Walk. This invasive species, which loves damp conditions, has been encroaching on this site for several years and the risk is that it will eventually shade out all our local species especially the important pollinators.
Himalayan Balsam, formally regarded to be an exotic garden plant, has over decades become a dominant invasive plant. It has taken over stretches of the river Slaney and tributary banks – and part of our most ecologically sensitive areas. Against the shading effects of Himalayan Balsam, our native riverside wildflowers such as Common Comfrey, Purple Loosestrife, Great Willowherb and Meadowsweet stand little chance of survival.
As part of this event, many of these species were encountered and areas cleared around them to allow our native species thrive. Furthermore, when the Balsam dies back every winter it leaves bare earth that is vulnerable to erosion. Without stabil-
ising vegetation, we’re losing more stream bank and riverbank, including the wildlife that lives within it.
The volunteers were really surprised at how easy it was to pull up Balsam plants. In just four hours, 22 volunteers pulled thousands of plants, with several large piles of balsam collected –these will degrade naturally over time. They were reminded that every single plant pulled up means there’s between 5002,500 less seeds germinating. It is important to intervene in this case to stop the spread of Himalayan Balsam. It is also important to carry out this work before the plant flowers and seeds from July-August.
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns will log the groups’ effort on the National Biodiversity Data Centre invasive species portal (https://invasives.ie/)
There are lots more sites in Enniscorthy with Himalayan Balsam. If your company would like to participate in a Balsam Bash as part of your social responsibility, or even just for a fun afternoon then please contact John at Enniscorthy Community Alliance john.enniscorthyca@gmail.com or Jonathan at Enniscorthy Tidy Towns enniscorthytt@gmail.com for more information. n
Participants in the Balsam Bashing Battle on the Urrin Loop, Enniscorthy, 13th June 2025.
Slaney aD Slaney environmenT
Improving our water quality
The Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) and Wexford Co. Council’s Climate Action and Environment Section held a meeting about the quality of our natural waters in Clonroche Community Hall on 17th of June 2025. The meeting was held to make people aware of work to improve water quality in the area and to encourage as much engagement as possible with all stakeholders right across the community, including key agencies, special interest groups, voluntary, public and private sectors.
The well attended meeting was chaired by Ruth Hennessy, regional Catchment Manager with LAWPRO. She gave a presentation including scientific data on water quality in the Boro catchment and community engagement and funding. Ruth set the scene describing the water quality in rivers and streams in Wexford as 41% good status but 43% at moderate or poor status. “Collaboration is key to success, and we are working with other relevant agencies in the Bann and Boro to address the issues,” said Ruth.
David Rafter, Community Water Officer for Wexford and Carlow, commended the great work done by community groups in Wexford saying: “Significant work is being done by volunteers along the Slaney including awareness-raising events, river clean-ups and water conservation projects, and I am delighted to work with them and support their work, particularly Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, Edermine Ferry Rowing Club and Tomhaggard Clean Coasts.
It is heartening to see such impactful work being done at grassroots level, and to witness the collective commitment to safeguarding and improving water quality in the Slaney. We look forward to even stronger collaborations between local likeminded groups across the wider Slaney catchment in the months ahead.”
For more information on the work of LAWPRO please visit: www.lawaters.ie n
Harnessing the sun’s power
While Wexford is Ireland’s sunniest county, it only ranks 4th nationally for installs per 1,000 people behind Wicklow, Meath and Clare. Enniscorthy-based Pinergy says to forget just enjoying the sun; it's time to harness it!
Across Ireland, thousands of savvy homeowners are already making the switch, turning their rooftops into mini power stations. In fact, solar generation here has soared by over 40% in the last year alone, with over 138,000 Irish homes having now installed rooftop solar, according to Solar Ireland, proving that more and more of us are discovering the brilliant value of going solar.
A typical 4 kWp residential solar panel system in Ireland is designed to generate approximately 3,400-4,200 kWh of clean electricity annually. This significant output contributes directly to reducing household bills and reliance on grid energy. For homeowners considering solar, the SEAI estimates the payback period is generally 7–10 years, depending on household usage and grant level. n
Wexford near top of recycling league
Last year an average 10.4kg of household e-waste was recycled per person in Wexford, more than the 9.5kg national average, according to the latest Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland annual report.
The country’s biggest e-waste recycling scheme is now calling for a national leap forward in ‘e-waste intelligence’ as electrical device consumption reaches record levels – with vapes and solar panels driving a 75% surge in sales over the last five years.
A total of 93 million household electronic items were purchased in 2024, putting pressure on Ireland’s ability to meet EU recycling targets. This is almost three times the volume sold in 2006, according to WEEE Ireland, with a reported 31 million vape and e-cigarette devices sold last year alone, and 2.5 million solar PV panels installed in the last five years.
“Each one of those 93 million devices contains valuable materials like aluminium, copper, lithium, cobalt,” says Leo Donovan, CEO of WEEE Ireland.
“We’re using these materials far faster than they can regenerate. Global demand is set to triple by 2050 – a trajectory that cannot be sustained.
“With over 80% of the EU’s rare earths coming from China, Ireland’s dependence on imports leaves us dangerously exposed. People must reduce that risk by rethinking consumption, embracing circularity, and recovering more materials here at home.”
The number of consumer electronics placed on the Irish market has tripled from 31 million in 2006 to 93 million in 2024. The most rapid growth has come since 2019 when 53 million units were sold. Vaping devices alone accounted for a third of all units sold last year.
Even excluding vapes and solar panels, consumption is still climbing – a challenge given that EU recycling targets are based on a percentage of sales and don’t take account of long product lifecycles or reusability. WEEE Ireland says this approach is fundamentally flawed.
“We are penalised for selling long-life items like solar PV panels,” said Donovan.
“Over 2.5 million panels have entered the market in the last five years, but with warranties of 15 to 20 years, they won’t reach recycling centres for at least another decade. Yet they still count toward our annual recycling target. That’s not circular thinking.” Further distorting the picture is the untracked volume of online purchases from many overseas sellers, a gap recently acknowledged by the European Commission.
New WEEE Ireland research also shows the proportion of households hoarding unused devices rose from 22pc in 2023 to 29pc in 2025, highlighting a massive untapped opportunity for reuse and repair.
“We need to move beyond recycling alone. Extending the life of products through repair and reuse must become the norm,” Donovan urged.
Despite these challenges, WEEE Ireland is working with manufacturers and retailers to scale up sustainable solutions. In 2024, it collected 38,215 tonnes of e-waste, equating to 9.5kg per capita. This included large household appliances which
account for a significant share of Ireland’s material recovery due to their size and resource content – almost 330,000 large household appliances, over 119,000 fridge freezers and 258,000 TVs and monitors.
More than 1.1 million vape devices were also recovered, despite being very difficult to capture due to disposal habits, with many ending up in waste bins. WEEE Ireland says it continues to work with retailers and regulators to design more effective solutions for this new category of waste.
16.2 million small appliances – such as kettles, vacuums, tools, and toys – along with 1.9 million lighting items and 72 million AA batteries worth of portable batteries were also collected.
With a 96% recovery rate, WEEE Ireland continues to exceed EU material recovery targets and reinforce Ireland’s standing as a circular economy leaders.
Consumers can recycle their electronics for free at participating retailers or recycling centres. Check www.weeeireland.ie for these as well as its many free public recycling collection days across the country. n
Our Lady’s Island – becoming a ‘toxic goo lagoon’?
Last month The Journal.ie reported as follows on an exchange in the Dáil concerning Our Lady’s Island.
“The Dáil has been told of the ongoing ecological crisis at Our Lady’s Island Lake in Co Wexford, with Taoiseach Micheál Martin pledging that action will be taken.
Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman told the Dáil that the lake risks becoming a “toxic goo lagoon” if the Government does not act.
Lady’s Island Lake in Wexford is Ireland’s largest saltwater lake, but experts have repeatedly warned that an “ecological disaster” is unfolding there due to pollution caused by agricultural runoff. The lake now has pockets of algae dotted around it and has a smell. One expert recently warned that the lake is “from many points of view” dead.
The area is a place of pilgrimage and is designated as both a Special Protection Area and a Special Area of Conservation.
As a result of excessive nutrients in the water from agricultural runoff, algae have bloomed at such a scale that is has blocked out light and killed the plants growing in the lakebed. This has, in turn, resulted in the animals that lived on the seabed being wiped away.
The issue was raised during Leaders’ Questions today by
O’Gorman, who urged the Taoiseach to take urgent action. He noted the comments of Dr Cillian Roden last year, who said the “situation is so bad that the lagoon’s glow can be seen from space”.
O’Gorman also made the point that this is not a new environmental catastrophe and highlighted newspaper reporting on the issue from the 1980s.
“This has been a problem in the making for over 40 years, a problem that’s been allowed to continue. All the various enforcement and accountability arms of the State – local authority, inspections, Teagasc – all the state mechanisms, have failed to protect Lady’s Island Lake,” he said.
He urged the Taoiseach to task the Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon to take the lead on this issue. In response, the Taoiseach told the Dáil that it must be a priority to reverse the pollution of the lake.
He said a specific action plan should be developed, and that this should be led by TD Christopher O’Sullivan, the junior minister responsible for biodiversity. The Taoiseach also signalled that such a plan “may involve financial intervention”.
“It’s not satisfactory that you would have that ecological devastation at such an important site,” the Taoiseach said. n
Sandra is Co. Wexford’s new Community Climate Action Officer
Wexford Co. Council is delighted to have Sandra Martin join its Climate Action Team as Community Climate Action Officer.
Sandra will play a key role in supporting and empowering communities to engage in climate action and sustainability projects which, in turn, will contribute to meeting Ireland’s climate targets and build awareness of the impact of climate change.
In her new role, Sandra will assist in making the public aware of new climate action initiatives and funding programmes, and provide information that may be required to fully avail of Wexford County Council’s wide range of services in relation to climate action.
Sandra replaces Clinton Donovan who was recently appointed Cycling & Walking Officer, a role in which Clinton will provide support to Wexford County Council's Active Travel Team on cycling and walking infrastructure projects designed to provide a safe alternative to car travel.
Wexford Co. Council thanks Clinton for his unwavering dedication, ability, drive, and vision in his engagement with, and support of, the community on numerous climate action initiatives, projects and funding programmes throughout his tenure as Community Climate Action Officer.
The Slaney News wishes both Sandra and Clinton all the very best in their new roles. n
Promoting biodiversity through art
Young artists from schools all around County Wexford received their awards for the Wexford County Council Annual Artwork Competition 2025 in the County Hall on Thursday 19th June.
The artwork competition is an initiative run by the Environment Section of Wexford County Council in conjunction with Wexford Naturalists’ Field Club. The theme of this year’s competition was ‘Bumblebees, Solitary Bees and Honeybee – Nature’s Pollinators.’
Councillor Ger Carthy, Leas-Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, presented prizes to 40 schoolchildren representing both primary and secondary schools. Councillor Ger Carthy stated that ’the aim of the competition is to raise awareness of the importance of Wexford’s environment and to encourage all to explore its uniqueness as something to be valued and cherished. Wexford County Council is preparing a new Local Biodiversity Action Plan, supported by the Heritage Council. The plan will provide a framework for biodiversity action for the next six years with the aim of halting biodiversity loss in County Wexford. It will be underpinned by the objectives of the National Biodiversity Action Plan and will set a vision for addressing biodiversity loss at a local level. An emphasis will be placed on actions that are achievable and measurable within the lifetime of the plan.'
Cllr. Carthy encouraged all to take local action for biodiversity, whether it’s getting involved in the many campaigns like
Members of Enniscorthy Tidy Towns, winners in the Snap Into Action Community Group competition, with judge Don Conroy, Cllr Ger Carthy, Leas-Cathaoirleach Wexford Co. Council, and Cliona Connolly, environment awareness officer with Wexford County Council.
Let Dandelions Bee; No Mow May; Let It Bloom June; or by planting native pollinator trees, pollinator friendly bulbs and plants. He thanked Don Conroy for providing the colouring sheet and judging the artwork competition, and Wexford Naturalists’ Field Club for supporting the competition and sponsoring birdboxes. He also praised the young artists present and encouraged them to maintain a healthy respect for the environment as part of their lives.
The overall winner from the Primary Schools was Alice Buki Nemeth, Glynn National School, and the overall winner from the Secondary Schools was Leon Carthy of Selskar College, Wexford.
Prizes were also presented for the Snap into Action Competition, which is open
to both schools and community groups. This competition encourages people from all walks of life to take action against litter. Danescastle National School received first prize in the Snap Into Action School Competition and received a prize for €500. Kilmyshall National School and Ballyoughter National School were presented with runner-up awards of €250.
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns were the winners in the Snap Into Action Community Group Competition and received a prize of €500. Campile Area Development Group and Kilmuckridge Tidy Towns were presented with runner-up awards of €250.
Councillor Ger Carthy congratulated all involved and praised the groups for all their voluntary work in keeping Wexford beautiful. n
Above left: Overall Primary Schools winner was Alice Buki Nemeth, Glynn National School. Above right: Secondary Schools winner was Leon Carthy of Selskar College, Wexford.
