Issue 189 - February 2026 serving Co. wexford for the last 15 years
L-R: Leona Eustace, Eimear Crean, and Julie Fox at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, for Blackstairs Mountain Theatre’s production of ‘The Salvage Shop’ in which Eimear plays a leading role.
Frizelle
McCarthy Solicitors
Annette McCarthy B.C.L.
Suzanne Carthy B.A. L.L.B.
Jillian O’Shea L.L.B.
Reliable advice on all aspects of the law since 1929
Solicitors & Commissioners for Oaths Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, Y21 W5T1 Tel: 053 92 33547 Email: info@fmclaw.ie
page 3
& Lifestyle page 48
page 73
& Drink page 76
& Finance page 82
page 90
page 92
page 94
& Heritage page 96 Environment page 99
Welcome to the February issue of the Slaney News. At the time of going to press, further flooding in Enniscorthy is still a possibility. For the homes and businesses already affected further flooding would be the ultimate nightmare. On pages 28-29 we reproduce photos of the flood in 1965. What concrete measures have been taken in the 60 years since? Temporary aqua dams are a poor substitute for decisive and urgent action on the long-promised €50 million Flood Flood Relief Scheme for the town. In Ireland largescale capital projects tend to be no toriously slow to complete, but even by our tardy national standards the Enniscorthy project’s lack of progress is wholly unacceptable. While there may be no magic wand available, heads should be knocked together now to get the ball rolling on Phase 1 which involves removing the Seamus Rafter bridge and its replacement by a pedestrian bridge (which will not block the flow of water through the town), and the construction of a road bridge slightly further down the river. The long-suffering affected residents and businesses cannot be made wait much longer.
While flooding has dominated the news in Enniscorthy, there have been some positive developments which we report on in this issue including Wexford Co. Council’s recently published plans for the Turret Rocks area of the town. In addition, we look forward to attending a Special Meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District on 10th February to hear all about the plans for the Castle Quarter and the moves to obtain planning permission for same.
We include, as always, a huge number of photos taken around Enniscorthy, and beyond. If you would like to purchase any of these please get in touch by email: slaneynews@gmail.com
If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our online format. Tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has over 15,000 Followers. And, of course, if you like our format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you
– Frank Corcoran
SLANEY NEWS
Barbara-Anne Murphy COUNCILLOR
Clinic in Redmond’s, Main Street, Bunclody, Monday February 16th, 7.30pm to 8pm. ★
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. Also Takeaway and Outside Catering. https://www.facebook.com/Cafe98Enniscorthy https://www.instagram.com/cafe98enniscorthy Telephone: 085 1993775
An established firm of solicitors, Julie and Kate Breen provide a full range of legal services at a competitive cost. Family law ■ Court defence ■ First-time buyer
Residential property ■ Commercial property
Personal injuries ■ Employment law ■ Wills
We provide a personal service with ongoing direct feedback from the solicitor to the client regarding each case. Appointments can easily be made to suit your schedule by phone, email or by dropping into one of our offices Enniscorthy: Irish Street, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 9235699 Ferns: Law Chambers, Aldercourt, Ferns. Tel: 053 9366688. E: info@JulieBreenSolicitor.ie www.JulieBreenSolicitor.ie
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New Year - New Opportunities for Wexford Businesses
The 2023-2027 LEADER Programme supports Wexford businesses to innovate, create jobs and grow sustainably. Grants of €5,000-€150,000 are available for:
Food & Beverage
Niche producers who are enhancing Wexford's food sector.
Tourism
Unique accommodation and visitor experiences that draw people to Wexford.
Green Economy enterprises driving circular and bioeconomy initiatives.
Grants cover up to 60% of eligible costs for: Facilities & equipment upgrades –Marketing & branding – Feasibility studies – Climate mitigation measures.
Turn ambition into action and take your business further in 2026. Visit www.wld.ie/leader or leader@wld.ie
Community Services Manager
Templeshannon Community and Childcare Centre has an opening for a Community Services Manager.
The manager’s role is to oversee the daily operations of the Community Centre, engaging with clients, organising and participating in community events and managing a team of individuals in supporting roles.
The Community Centre is a hub of activity in Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, and we are looking for a dynamic, energetic individual who has familiarity with Community Centre Operations, Community Development, Grant Submissions, Fundraising, Financial and Regulatory Compliance, and Health and Safety Compliance.
The successful candidate must have strong interpersonal skills, ability to manage multiple tasks, and interact with community members from all nationalities and diverse backgrounds. The position reports to the Board of Directors, and we are eager to find an individual who has Strategic and Tactical experience to enable us to improve and expand our offerings in the community.
Interested parties should submit a cover letter and resume to: Bom@templeshannoncommunitycentre.org
Closing date: Sunday, February 15th 2026.
Essential reading:
The College & Career Companion
by career guidance experts
Seamus Whitney & Mary Hickey
Interested candidates should have:
● Minimum 3 years of management experience in a community based role
● 3rd level educational degree in a related field (preferred)
● Demonstrated leadership skills
● Knowledge of regulatory and financial requirements for managing funds awarded by various government agencies
● Strong communication skills
● Prior experience managing teams
● Grants management
● Health and safety training
● Fundraising experience (preferred)
Available to buy at Easons and Evolv, Castle Hill, Enniscorthy. Also online at Amazon.ie. For School orders please contact Seamus on 087 2930 510.
Council reveals exciting plans for Enniscorthy’s Turret Rocks
Plans for the Turret Rocks site in Enniscorthy were revealed at the January meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District and the reaction from the town's Councillors was very positive.
The plan includes 50 new houses (15 Affordable and 35 Social), a community centre, skatepark, amphitheatre, playground, car park, a new road and various pathways running through the site linking to the town, the new Tech Park and Vinegar Hill, and possibly a pavilion style tea house. All the above is subject to receiving government funding. There will be an emphasis on biodiversity and open spaces and maintaining the existing trees on the site.
The Council's plan is in addition to plans by Wexford Football League for soccer pitches on the adjoining site at Turret Rocks which are also shown on the accompanying graphic. ■
Enniscorthy is set for rapid population expansion
The Slaney News attended a special meeting of Wexford County Council last month at which it was revealed that Enniscorthy town will now be designated a 'key town' and is in for a period of rapid growth.
The population is expected to increase by 7,000 in the period 2025-2034 with additional lands to be rezoned for housing. During that period approx 2,500 housing units will be brought on stream in Enniscorthy.
Countywide the target is 18,000 new housing units in the period 2025-2040.
The plan was broadly welcomed by the Councillors present but with some adding a note of caution that infrastructure and services like additional schools, GPs, etc will need to be in place to cater for the rising population.
The plan will be going out soon for public consultation, and we'll be covering this story in more detail in our March magazine. ■
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Brendan Howlin's life and times
Brendan Howlin's Life and Times: Politician, Councillor, TD, Government Minister.
Brendan Howlin received a standing ovation from 120 members of Wexford Historical Society (WHS) when he addressed them recently at Whites Hotel, Wexford, on his life and times.
Photo:
Surrounding Brendan Howlin are Pat Hackett, secretary WHS, Carmel Foley, treasurer WHS, and Willie French, chairman of the society. At the back is former Fáilte Éireann international executive, James Maloney. ■
Enniscorthy – New Year – New Brand?
What type of town is Enniscorthy? What is our 'brand'? As you approach Enniscorthy by any of the roads leading into town what sense do you get of our town, and its identity?
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns (ETT) has received feedback over recent years from the national tidy towns judges that when approaching Enniscorthy it is difficult to get a sense of what 'type' of town we are – they have asked: ‘What is Enniscorthy’s brand?’
The approach roads don’t give a sense of our town.
ETT recently produced and carried out an online survey to get the views of the town’s own residents on what 'type' of town we consider Enniscorthy to be (or should be!) 130 responses were received and analysed by Enniscorthy Tidy Towns. The results make very interesting reading and are summarised in the three accompanying graphics on this page. 70.8% of respondents (92 of 130) do not get a sense of the town whether approaching from the north, south, east or west. The main overall branding suggested by the survey is that of a historic/heritage town, with 87 out of 130 (67%) of respondees ‘voting’ for this. Based on that result and the strong showing of the River Slaney, Enniscorthy’s branding could therefore be along the lines of a ‘Historic Rebel Town on the Slaney’. ETT has worked with marketing expert Kerry Matzelle to create some visuals based on the results to date, and these are shown on the opposite page. ETT will now survey some of the schools in Enniscorthy to get feedback from the younger generation, and will work with Enniscorthy Municipal District to help implement the final results. ■
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In a thronged Whitford Hotel on the outskirts of Wexford town an old newspaper editor and Atticus waited for a waitress. A young waitress, under obvious pressure, arrived arms full, apologised profusely for the delay and swiftly dispatched the coffee and truly scrumptious scones. She then sped away and later sped back from the madding crowd to check that we were happy. Her approach swept away our previous grievance. We’ll be back there for more and for her winning smile.
* * *
Sister Mai and Breda
Sister Mai Pender, a native of the foothills of the Blackstairs, a cousin of retired Bishop Denis Brennan, has for years helped the suffering people of Wexford town. She was well known on sight from her distinctive nun’s white coif or cap or wimple as she sailed through the streets.
Now in her nineties, Sister Mai lives in Kerlogue. We hadn’t seen her for ages until recently in Wexford town where she was chaperoned through the Bull Ring by the equally well-known Breda Cahill, President of the ICA.
* * *
Mary’s Meals
Martin Colfer of Camross, a presenter of Christian Media programmes on South East Radio, is coordinator of a monthly online quiz to promote fundraising for Mary’s Meals. Martin and his colleagues raise funds for starving children in 16 countries, among them Zambia and Malawi. They have now far surpassed their target of a million meals per year.
Martin is helped by Donal O’Doherty of Ferrycarrig, Patricia McNally of Enniscorthy, Michael Casey of Glanmire, Co. Cork, and Michael Ridgeway of Adamstown. Michael, partially blind, has famously walked to base camp on Mount Everest.
For the Quiz go online to: bit.ly/QuizforMM. To support, it’s eleven cents per meal or €22 per year. Go to MMQuiz on Facebook or contact Martin on 087 2596159.
Johnstown Castle’s Museum Development
Atticus admires the soft power of Willie French of Loughgerald. His lengthy c.v. includes chairman of County Wexford IFA, national vice-president of the IFA, and chairman of the Farm Centre in Enniscorthy. He was also famously chairman of the IFA national sugar-beet committee during the tumultuous days of the demise of the sugar beet industry.
Now, in his capacity as chairman of the Irish Agricultural Museum, at Johnstown Castle, he and Matt Wheeler, the curator/manager and the Irish Heritage Trust, will soon let us see a huge refurbishment of the museum which thousands of people from all over the world visit every year. The refurb will include an enhanced display of the impact of the Famine in
An occasional column in which our special correspondent Atticus catches people doing good things and not so good things!
Ireland of 1845 to 1852. We’ll wait patiently. * * *
Unputdownable Bree
In Bree there is now a crop of orators and debaters that has been sixty or more years in the growing. They have developed their human intellectual capacities to become critical thinkers for all kinds of lifetime roles. Their reputations in public speaking competition are now such that across Ireland others approach them with trembling and trepidation.
After their recent winning of the All-Ireland, they brought a wounded Rory Murphy trophy back to Wexford. The distinctive trophy named in the honour of the genius and inspirational orator Rory Murphy, father of Cllr Bairbara of Bunclody, lost a leg in another county and was sent away for repair.
As they waited for the trophy, they held an Apres Match appraisal of their performances at a private house in Ballyhogue. With them was their coach who has mentored them for fifty or more
All-Ireland winners in Bree.
years, the several times debating and national public speaking champion, P.J. Darcy. Congratulations to Sarah Byrne, Mary Byrne, Eddie Casey and PJ.
A mist comes to Atticus’ old eyes, a lump comes to his throat, a burst of pride shoots through his heart, and a nostalgic tear falls down his cheek.
We’re Safe
Atticus worries about the future of Ireland but was consoled lately with the performance of George Lawlor TD on radio and television.
George, who in his youth sang his heart out while picking strawberries at Bridie Kelly-Doyle’s home farm at the back of Bree Hill, accurately predicted the recent moves of US President Trump.
Battle-hardened old colleagues of Atticus in the Oireachtas Press Gallery told him that George is a terribly nice fellow, is very bright and is a wonderful singer.
Less Dependent, More Independent
Gerard Howlin of Ballymitty and Cleariestown ancestry, a Trinity College graduate, was Government special adviser to An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern from 19992007. Together with the late Jerome Hynes, Gerard helped secure the millions that in turn secured the National Opera House.
He said on the Brendan O’Connor show on RTÉ Radio that there is no lack of solutions that would make Ireland more independent. He was talking in the context of the dependence of the Irish economy on American multinationals. He said: ”I take with several grains of salt, political leaders in this country whinging about Trump when they’re not prepared to take the steps here that make us less dependent.” Atticus concurs.
Good Chips and Bad Chips
Atticus likes his chips. He met with an old RTÉ radio and television journalist in the Coast Hotel in Rosslare Strand and both agreed that the chips there were just right. They were as good as those from the Saltee Chipper in Kilmore Quay or Burdock’s there near Christ Church in Dublin. They were of gener-
ous size, chunky, well cut, juicy to the taste and there were no scraps. However, in one hostelry in the county, the chips felt like cardboard and Atticus almost broke his teeth. In the basket of about 50 chips, about five were edible. For the rest, he was tempted to call the Guards and an ambulance.
A Wexford Leader
Father John Murphy of Tincurry and Boolavogue was a fearless Wexford leader back in 1798. There have been few like him since. Among the few significant Wexford leaders of recent times is Ed Murphy, native of Clongeen, a serial entrepreneur, who is breathing new life into the hitherto almost lethargic old place through his GreenTech enterprises at Senan House there beside the old St Senan’s Hospital in Enniscorthy.
Urged by Jimmy Gahan and a few others from Enniscorthy Chamber, he came to Enniscorthy six years ago, coaxed about 50 movers and shakers from national level and local level into the Seamus Rafter suite in the Riverside Park after Christmas and has since created, as he promised he would, hundreds of new jobs. He was a Wexford hurling and football champion before he went off to the US and Australia and came back. Now, back here as President of County Wexford Chamber, he with fellow Chamber members, is in-
tent on creating another 300 or more jobs. He has invited billionaire Denis O’Brien and Brian Cody to address his President’s Lunch, so that Wexford people will be uplifted.
Some say Ed is very like Mark Carney, the inspirational former Central Bank governor of Mayo stock who is the new Prime Minister of Canada. He encourages naysayers to get over themselves and reaches out all over the world for business. He gets on about doing the work, quietly, unassumingly and steadfastly focused on the goal.
Atticus says Ed is a great man. * * *
Roused and Fearsome
Atticus remembers Liam Griffin, another Wexford entrepreneur and leader like Ed Murphy, quoting Ireland’s then poet laureate Anthony Cronin of Enniscorthy. Anthony wrote: “Wexford people are slow to rouse, but when they’re roused, they’re fearsome.” Atticus wishes.
Atticus is so named from Greek philosophy for his fearlessness, his fairness and his integrity, values that we regard highly at ‘Slaney News’. Readers may know the human rights lawyer named Atticus Finch in ‘To Kill a Mocking Bird’ by Harper Lee. His values are similar to those of our Atticus, whose objective in life is to make people better. ■
Ed Murphy, President of County Wexford Chamber.
Taoiseach visits Enniscorthy Tech Park
Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD visits some of the businesses at Enniscorthy’s new Technology Park, 16th January 2026.
Top: An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD at GreenTechHQ, the Southeast centre of expertise for business, innovation, sustainability & AI, marking the launch of the second phase of Business Advantage and Sustainability South East – BASSE 2026.
Above left: The Taoiseach visited Platinum Homecare at the Tech Park. Above right: AIB, long-standing partners of GreenTechHQ, announced the continuation of their SME Sustainability Sponsorship Programme.
Left: The Taoiseach visited The Food Studio at GreenTech HQ – a purpose-built collaborative space for food entrepreneurs, producers and innovators.
Below left and right: The Taoiseach at GreenTechHQ. AIl photos: Mary Browne. ■
Funding available now for local community groups
Wexford County Council, in conjunction with the Wexford Local Community Development Committee (LCDC), has launched its Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2026, supporting Community Groups in Disadvantaged Areas. Wexford has been allocated €253,227 to empower local communities, as part of a nationwide €7 million investment announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD. The 2026 programme is designed to fund small-scale capital projects that improve local facilities or provide essential equipment.
The initiative provides vital capital funding to support community groups and voluntary organisations across County Wexford, with a specific focus on those serving disadvantaged areas.
Key Features of the 2026 Programme:
No Match Funding: The programme is 100% exchequer-funded, meaning no match funding is required from applicant groups.
Capital Grants: Funding is available for necessary repairs and improvements to community facilities, as well as the purchase of equipment such as laptops, printers, lawnmowers, tools, and community furniture.
Priority Areas: Projects focusing on energy efficiency, accessibility for persons with disabilities, and enhancing participation for marginalised groups are encouraged.
Small Grant Ringfencing: To ensure a wide distribution of funds, 30% of the total allocation is ringfenced for small
Wexford Local Community Development Committee Chairperson Cllr. Aidan Browne at the launch of the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2026 at Council Chambers, Wexford County Council, 26th January 2026.
capital grants of €1,000 or less.
Commenting on the fund at the launch, the Chairperson of the LCDC, Cllr. Aidan Browne, said: “The LEP funding we are announcing for County Wexford today will empower many small communities across the districts to deliver dozens of small-scale but vital projects in the disadvantaged areas that need them the most. I encourage all interested groups to make their applications as this, in turn, helps the Council to support them in their fabulous work serving their own communities.”
Eligibility & Application Process:
The programme is open to all not-forprofit community or voluntary groups based in County Wexford. Commercial organisations and individuals are not eligible to apply.
Applications must be submitted through the Wexford County Council online portal www.wexfordcoco.ie/lep. The closing date for all applications is Friday, 27th February 2026, at 5pm.
Contact Information:
For further details on the Local Enhancement Programme 2026, please visit the Wexford County Council website or contact the Community Development Section at community@wexfordcoco.ie or 053-919 6851. ■
At the launch, L-R: Philip Knight (Wexford Co. Council Community Development Section), Cllr. Aidan Browne (LCDC Chairperson), Carolyne Godkin (Director of Services, Wexford Co. Council), Dymphna O'Connor (Head of Wexford Co. Council Community Development Section).
A gathering of remarkabl
There was standing room only as a large gathering filled the The National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy recently for the launch of Maria Nolan’s fifth book 'A Most Remarkable Woman'.
The book tells the story of Anna Harriet Edwards Donaghue Leonowens, a woman with strong Enniscorthy connections, who became governess to King Mongkut of Siam instructing his eightytwo children in English and the ways of the western world between 1862 and 1867, and whose memoirs form the basis for the famous musical and film, 'The King and I'.
‘And a most remarkable woman she was,’ Maria told the 1798 audience, ‘reinventing herself on many occasions as her only means of survival in a world where there was little or no assistance for a woman widowed with two children.’
And with little or no formal education beyond the age of 14 in an army barrack school in Poona near Bombay in India, Anna Harriet Edwards Leonowens invented an English lady background even though being of mixed race, Anglo Indian, and having never set foot in England.
She was an extremely intelligent woman and educated herself listening to and learning from all the different languages, cultures, and religions that surrounded her in British-ruled India.
She met and married Thomas Owens, the son of John Owens and Mary Lean from Enniscorthy, and when he died suddenly only ten years later leaving her with a daughter, Avis, and son, Louis, she went to Singapore where she set up her own school and where King Mongkut the King of Siam heard of her.
She came to Enniscorthy from Siam in 1867 to acquaint her children with their Irish relatives and stayed for about six months with her late husband’s sister Mary who was married to a Thomas Wilkinson of Castle Hill (very possibly where Evolv is now).
Leaving her son Louis with his Enniscorthy family and taking her daughter Avis with her, she travelled to America where she wrote her somewhat embellished memoirs and gave lecture tours all over the States
on her experiences in Siam.
‘She died at 83 in Montreal in Canada after a most remarkable life,’ Maria concluded. ‘This is my fifth book and all my books are either set in Enniscorthy or have Enniscorthy connections and I have already begun the sixth which will be set in Norman times at Enniscorthy Castle and titled The Shadow of the Knight.’
Maria would like to thank designer Barbara Guthrie for designing, making, and modelling for the cover of the book; Dick Donaghue for taking the cover photograph at Enniscorthy Castle; Annie Gilpin for editing; and Frank Corcoran (Slaney News) for bringing the cover together ready for print.
‘This book is dedicated to all the remarkable women I know and come from – many of them here among us in the audience and thank you all for coming and for your tremendous support for all my books.’
Maura Bell did an excellent job in performing the official launch introducing Maria as ‘a remarkable woman’ saying
that every town should have at least one like her and more if at all possible. She complimented Maria on her writing and thanked her for making her books and short films all about Enniscorthy. ‘Maria’s love and passion for her hometown and its history is obvious and the fact that her books and films are spreading that history around the globe is admirable.’
The very talented costume designer Barbara Guthrie attended in full Anna Leonowens costume as she appears on the book cover and explained to the audience how she put the outfit together from curtains and pieces that she recycled from charity shops.
Barbara thanked Maria for giving her the opportunity to be part of the process of producing her book saying that she was very much looking forward to reading it.
Maria's book A Most Remarkable Woman can be found in Easons bookstore Enniscorthy and on Amazon in both ebook and paperback versions. ■
Above left: Maura Bell, Maria Nolan, Barbara Guthrie. Above right: Marja van Kampen and Dick Donaghue. Below L-R: Anne Gilpin, Maria Nolan, Selin Kim, Barbara Guthrie, Kathleen Codd-Nolan.
e women
Some of the attendees at The National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy recently for the launch of Maria Nolan’s fifth book 'A Most Remarkable Woman', which is the story of Anna Harriet Edwards Donaghue Leonowens, a woman with strong Enniscorthy connections.
A MOST REMARKABLE WOMAN, WITH STRONG ENNISCORTHY CONNECTIONS, HAS HER STORY BROUGHT TO LIFE IN A NEW BOOK BY PROLIFIC ENNISCORTHY AUTHOR MARIA NOLAN, WHICH IS NOW AVAILABLE IN EASONS BOOKSTORE ENNISCORTHY AND ON AMAZON IN BOTH EBOOK AND PAPERBACK VERSIONS.
Support for flood victims
The people of Enniscorthy are eternally grateful to the vol unteers of Slaney Search & Rescue, the staff of Enniscorthy Municipal District / Wexford Co. Council, the Civil Defence and Fire Services, and the Irish Red Cross for all their work and support for those who were so badly affected by the recent floods.
Between 30–40 residential properties in Enniscorthy and Bunclody were damaged by the recent floods. Those residents can access assistance by logging onto: https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-socialprotection/services/emergency-response-payment/
Slaney Search & Rescue plays a crucial role:
During this challenging time, the Slaney Search and Rescue (SSR) team has been a beacon of hope for our community. This voluntary organisation has worked tirelessly to assist those affected, providing crucial aid and comfort when it was needed most.
Their dedication and selflessness have not gone unnoticed, and now they need our help. By contributing to their GoFundMe campaign, you can ensure that they continue to have the resources necessary to respond to emergencies and support our town in the future. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference and helps keep this vital service running.
Please consider showing your support for the Slaney Search & Rescue team. Together, we can help them continue their important work and strengthen our community’s resilience.
The group itself is very appreciative of all the support it receives from the local community, saying, “We want to sincerely thank everyone for the incredible support over the last few days. We are also aware of, and truly grateful for, the many individuals, groups, and businesses who have contacted us to organise fundraisers. Your generosity means a great deal to our team.”
Fundraiser for Slaney Search & Rescue organised by Samantha Doyle: https://gofund.me/a5e4d7650
St Senan’s Primary School fundraiser for SSR: https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/Q85QO8DH
Fundraising for flood victims:
Enniscorthy woman Rebecca Byrne has set up a Go Fund Me page to try and help the residents of our town who have lost everything due to the recent floods.
Rebecca says, "I just want to make even a small difference and help them all out in some small way and try to help them rebuild their lives... Even if people could donate €1 it will go towards helping these people."
As of now the page has raised over €9,000, and rising.
You can donate at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/enniscorthy-flooding
EMERGENCY HUMANITARIAN FLOODING SCHEME FOR SMALL BUSINESSES, COMMUNITY, VOLUNTARY AND SPORTING BODIES:
Up to 66 businesses in Enniscorthy, New Ross and Bunclody have been impacted by the recent flooding. Applicable businesses can now avail of up to €100,000 to return business premises to pre-flood conditions.
The Irish Red Cross has been administering the flood scheme on behalf of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment for many years. Businesses and organisations requiring financial support above the initial payment of €5,000 will require an in-person visit by an assessor. A panel of assessors
are on standby to support this immediately, once the correctly completed application is received.
Deirdre Garvey, Secretary General, Irish Red Cross, says, “This is a distressing time for all affected business owners and community organisations. It is only now, a week after the initial floods, that the adrenaline drops and the reality hits home. We are here on the ground to make sure the scheme runs as efficiently as possible and to let people know we are here to support them.”
Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, says, “Locals have been deeply impacted by the floods and this much needed boost will help people recover and get back to trading more quickly. We are looking forward to seeing doors
Local Concern for
The annual CONCERN Fast which locally has raised thousands of euros for famine and disaster relief in the Third World, was due to take place in Enniscorthy from February 5th to 8th but had to be postponed due to the stormy weather at that time. It will now take place later this month.
Organised annually by the local CONCERN support group, the fundraising takes the form of a street collection as well as a coffee morning which last year raised a very impressive figure of €10,000. The rescheduled coffee morning will now take place on 20th February in The Presentation Centre.
Transition Year students from Coláiste Bríde Girls Secondary School will, once again, play a pivotal role in the collection process by manning collection points throughout the town.
The fundraising drive this month will help relieve hunger among children in the Gaza Strip.
Enniscorthy has a proud tradition of contributing generously to the annual CONCERN Fast and in the last ten years has contributed more than any comparable sized town in Ireland. See the Slaney News Facebook page for updates. ■
opening again, and footfall back into our town.”
Paula Roche, CEO, County Wexford Chamber, says: “Many of those affected by Storm Chandra were unable to obtain insurance through no fault of their own, leaving them exposed once again to devastating losses. This is not sustainable, and it is not fair. We are pleased to see the Irish Red Cross stepping in with practical, compassionate, on-the-ground support – not just in helping people navigate the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme, but in ensuring affected businesses and community groups are treated with urgency, and care as they work to recover.”
Important links:
https://www.redcross.ie/stormchandra/ Irish Red Cross Helpline: 01 642 4648.
Gaza
Above: Attendees at last year’s Concern coffee morning in Enniscorthy. Below: Devastation in Gaza. Right: Shattered lives.
ESB’s €150 million Wexfoord “will keep the lights on”
The importance of the ESB’s Wexford Solar Hub farm was emphasised by the presence at a talk by Fergal Desmond, ESB's Head of Renewable Development on the Island of Ireland.
The attendance included Dr Noel Culleton, the former head of Johnstown Castle, who was a member of the Government/EU team on climate change in the 1990s and Patrick Rochford of the Wexford Town Sustainable Energy Community (SEC) –winners of the National Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) award presented by Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister for Climate, Energy and Environment.
Dr. Noel Culleton has for many years advocated solar energy as a means to reducing the price of clean energy to homes, while reducing a €25 billion EU fine if Ireland fails to meet its climate change targets. “Every home in Ireland should have solar panels,” he said.
Brian Trench of Wexford Science Café, who is a former Masters’ lecturer on science communication in Dublin City University, was convenor the meeting.
able Energy Scheme for next 20 years.
Project will supply 100 MW to power more than 25,000 homes, farms and businesses.
Huge Synchronous Compensator to be built at Barntown.
New ESB substation being built at Dennistown beside Murrintown.
Technology for Stability
There have been major developments in the technologies for generating energy since the first of Ireland’s generating stations at Ardnacrusha hydroelectric power station in Co. Clare in 1929 and Great Island gasfired power station at Campile, Co. Wexford, in 1967.
Seán Moroney said that one is a Synchronous Compensator or Synchronous Condensor being built by Green Frog close to the Wexford sub-station at Barntown. ESB built one at Moneypoint power station in Co. Clare for about €50 million. Moneypoint is now a back-up generator to generate electricity using heavy oil until 2029.
He said, “The Synchronous Compensator is a fascinating piece of kit with an enormous flywheel that spins at 3,000 rpm. It smooths out the variations that come from different supplies of energy whether they be onshore wind, offshore wind, wavewind, or solar.”
Talk on Solar Farm: Paul Overy, Fergal Desmond, ESB, Sean Moroney, ESB, Pat Dunphy, Dr Brian Coulter, Dr Noel Culleton and Patrick Rochford of Wexford Town Sustainable Energy Community.
Landscape at Dennistown.
Mountain Bar at foot of Forth Mountain.
Carnsore
is now an Onshore Wind Farm
Carnsore, a 200-acre site owned by the ESB on the southeasterly tip of County Wexford became internationally famous in 1979 when thousands of protestors gathered there to block a proposed nuclear energy power plant on the site.
Carnsore is now the site of an ESB onshore wind farm providing renew
ord Solar Farm for generations to come
keep the lights on for homes, farms and businesses for generations to come and transform the local community with funding for cultural, sports and other services for 20 years.
In return for the disruption caused in the development, the community in south Wexford will benefit to the amount of about €5 million. That translates into about €250,000 per year for the next 20 years to be given to local groups who present good proposals on how to spend it.
available within the next two years.
Seán Moroney of the ESB’s Wexford Solar Hub Farm in south County Wexford told the attendance of mainly scientists at the Wexford Science Café in Wexford Library that once completed by developers Harmony Solar Dennistown for the ESB in probably the Spring of next year, the solar farm will generate between 100 MW and 123 MW of electricity, enough to power more than 25,000 homes, farms and businesses.
years by the ESB from eight retiring and retired farmers, most of them sheep farmers in an area between Forth Mountain and Mayglass, is about 300 acres. At the end, this land will not have left farming, he said. He explained the 35 years lease from the farmers as ”an economic choice, as it costs millions of euros to put the cables in place.”
The solar farm comprises sites between 10km and 15km apart, with underground cables running between them to export the energy to each site and then to the
Solar for Homes
Homeowners have been daunted for many years by the prospect of investment in solar panels. Now a number of companies are offering terms that make putting solar panels on your roof more affordable. If you own a house with a roof, you may be able to get equipped.
The company, MySolar, offers one such proposal. Subtract the Government grant of €1,800 from roughly €7,500 and you may reach your target. For eight solar panels which are recommended for a three-bed house, payment might be just €60 euro per month.
Wexford Solar Farm – map of area.
ESB Wexford Substation at Barntown.
ESB substation at Barntown. The sites are located at Growtown townland, Taghmon, near Larkins Cross (where there are three farmers); Youngstown/ Tracystown townlands, Taghmon (one farmer); and two sites close together in Dennistown and Mayglass townlands in the parish of Piercetown (four farmers).
Power generated from the sites will connect via two 33kV underground cables to a major new 110 kV substation, which is being built in a long shadow of Johnstown Castle at Dennistown beside the village of Murrintown. Cables to and from the sites will export energy into the new substation at Dennistown and back around to the present 110v substation at the Wexford substation at the village of Barntown and ultimately into the National Grid. The Dennistown substation will be as big as Barntown.
Engineers and ground workers have been working quietly in recent months preparing the sites and the cabling to achieve a Spring 2027 deadline. Their work is virtually invisible in the wooded and secluded landscape. And when in place the solar farm panels ‘will be almost out of sight’.
Said Seán Moroney, “It’s a significant task with lots of hard work with a trench of 600 millimetres wide and four feet deep. There’s minimal concrete used. We tread lightly on the land.”
Work on the area at Murrintown is underway with a trench being made all the way from the Deerpark Road, cross-
ing the road at the Mountain Bar and going up and over the top of Forth Mountain.
Once completed next year, the ‘solar farm’ will generate an income of roughly €2 per megawatt hour to be given to the local community. This is a community benefit fund under the Renewable Energy Scheme, which the Government
in fairness to them supports. Community groups will be invited to submit proposals on how best to spend it.
He said: “It’s community gain in return for the community pain of traffic congestion and digging up roads and construction work. The ESB is from the people and is for the people,” he emphasised.
An advantage for the landholders is that at the end of the 35-year lease, their land will come back into the full possession of their families who can then generate more income from them when the farmer has gone to his Maker. And the advantage for the community is that ‘the lights will be kept on’ for generations to come.
There are more solar farms in County Wexford and they’re not just the ESB’s. There’s a large one on the M11 motorway at Gorey and another at Foulksmills.
Landowners and farmers generally looking to engage in a similar ESB project in County Wexford may be disappointed because of limited capacity on the National Grid. “We need to build more Grid,” said Seán Moroney.
ESB solar farm.
Murrintown, near site of new substation.
Help shape the future of Co. Wexford’s libraries
Wexford Public Library Services is inviting people to participate in a Public Consultation Survey to help shape the future of its services. The public survey is part of a process to draft a new Library Development Plan 2026-2030 that will guide the library's growth and community engagement.
The Public Library Survey will gather feedback on the current library experience and future priorities. The goal is to gather input on what libraries in the county are doing well and where they can improve to better meet local needs, introduce new services increase accessibility and optimise resources.
You can share you feedback by completing the Online Public Library Survey in English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/F6ZP TW5
Or in Irish at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/G3PBKNK
"Our libraries are vital community hubs, and this library development plan will ensure libraries continue to be responsive to
Rachel raises over
€5,500
Congrats to Rachel O’Gorman who took part in 12 Dips in December to raise funds for the Irish Heart Foundation. The Irish Heart Foundation’s mission is to eliminate preventable death and disability from heart disease and stroke, and to support and care for those living with these life-changing conditions.
Rachel raised in excess of €5,500 so all the sea dips, cold showers, and ice baths paid off! ■
the needs of our citizens," said Cllr. Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council. "We want to hear from everyone—current users and those who don't visit us—so we can create the best possible library service for our county."
The survey is available online, in hardcopy, and in all local libraries in County Wexford. Printed surveys can be collected from your local library or can be posted out on request. Printed surveys can be returned to: Wexford Library Management Services, Wexford County Council, Block D, Level 2, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93, or to your local library.
This Survey will close on 13th February 2026.
Anyone who needs help to enable them to complete the survey should contact their local library in County Wexford. They are happy to help.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Library Headquarters, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Email: libraryhq@wexfordcoco.ie
Phone: + 353 (0) 53 9196561
Wexford Town Library
Mallin St., Wexford, Y35 AY20
Phone +353 (0) 53 9196760
Email: wexfordlibrary@wexfordcoco.ie
Gorey Library
Gorey Civic Sq., The Avenue, Gorey, Co. Wexford Y25 WK37
There were major floods in Enniscorthy in the early part of the last century but the first time that the town achieved worldwide attention for flooding was in November 1965 –sixty years ago. The cause was said to have been a combination of the aftermath of heavy snow in the Wicklow mountains and an upstream tidal force below the town.
Seán Mythen, who lived on Castle hill, later civil servant, business trainer and musician, was a 14-year-old student at CBS.
Oliver Kehoe, a fellow 14-year-old student at CBS lived with his parents and eight siblings at their pub at Templeshannon. He became a bank official in Ireland and later a regional bank manager in England.
Sean Mythen remembered:
Sean Mythen
“I lived on the top of Castle Hill, so we were safe. The second bridge had not been built and the ESB offices and yard were beside the river. I think the water was over the roof of the offices. We had a teacher Mr. Kelly who came from Wexford and got through on the back of a lorry.
“Island Road was very badly affected with water well above the second floor. There were crowds assembled in Abbey Square just standing there looking on in amazement.
“I remember my mother talking about the hardship the people were suffering, particularly on the Island Road. There was not as much Government and Local Authority involvement then, but people rallied and helped out as best they could.
“A lot of people took in families. Very few people could afford new appliances and furniture and I suspect a lot of them did not have insurance.”
Oliver Kehoe remembered:
“We had a pub on the Quay and we lived overhead. I went down to collect our milk delivery of 8 bottles about 7.30 and
noticed water up to the towpath. Nothing unusual I thought. By 8.30 our bottom floor was totally submerged.
“I swam part of the way up the shop to turn the light out. In the early afternoon, a rescue team came to a window on the first floor and asked us to vacate as they said the bridge was threatened. My mother was against leaving, so we stayed.
“A large oil tank at Buttles Bacon Factory was lifted by the force of the water and moved slowly towards the centre of the river and the fast currents. We held our breaths, said rosaries, invoked prayers, and promised favours as the tank took off towards the central arch of the bridge.
“Miraculously, it disappeared under the water and emerged the other side of the bridge shooting about 20 feet into the air and then took off at a pace downstream.
“Water levels began to recede and by next morning we were back cleaning the pub out. We reopened for business at some point that day. No claims were made or assistance sought. We just go on with it!
Oliver Kehoe
60 years ago
“At that time Enniscorthy had a resident engineer, Mr. Kevin Quinlan, who worked and lived in the town. If the same man had been there for the past 30 years, the flood plain would not have been built on. Island Road should be the car park the Council provided on Irish Street and Irish Street should have been used to build new houses for the Island Road residents. You’d be keeping the residents in the environment they were used to.
“Fiacre brought this proposal to the council 20 years ago when he was chairman of the council. It fell on deaf ears.“
Another observer recalls a family being rescued by boat from the top floor of their home on Island Road, the public toilet then opposite the Cotton Tree pub at the old bridge being submerged in water, and the bang of the dislodged tank from Buttles factory hitting the old bridge with a loud boom. He remembers the most poignant scene of all: an old cock of hay with a cat running around it scrambling and struggling to escape as it sailed down the Slaney.
– M.F.
Oliver Kehoe kindly supplied the photographs of the floods in Enniscorthy in 1965.
Enniscorthy snippets...
VINEGAR HILL
New seating has been installed. New Heritage Interpretive panels are due to be installed this month. Parking and access improvements to Vinegar Hill are being investigated by Wexford Co. Council (WCC). €40,000 in government grant funding has been awarded to Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) for signage and laneway improvements. The Enniscorthy East Community Development Association believes it has identified a site that could be used to allow access to the Hill for buses etc, and could potentially house a new welcome centre/ coffee shop/toilets, etc and have contacted EMD officials about it.
ST JOHN’S COMMUNITY WELLBEING & ACTIVITY GARDEN
This new green space is a vibrant community hub that is safe, accessible and welcoming to all. Some weeks ago, a new walking route around St. John’s Community Hospital campus was officially opened.
ENNISCORTHY TOWN CENTRE REGENERATION PROJECTS
Market Square Project: The Part 8 process for the Market Square project was concluded on 9th Sept. 2024, with the Council approving the scheme with amendments to address matters raised during the public consultation process.
The design of the scheme will be amended to reflect the outcome of the Part 8 process, and to have everything in order for upcoming grant funding calls.
Castle Quarter Project: Preliminary design work on the Enniscorthy Castle Quarter project is ongoing. An initial concept design was presented in December 2024 for review. An application for Ministerial Consents for the project, given its proximity to a National Monument, has been successfully obtained. Planning stage design is now at an advanced stage and it is proposed to launch a Part 8 process for the Castle Quarter project within days.
The Castle nightclub has been acquired and discussions are ongoing with other landowners to acquire further lands required for the project. Ground Investigation works are currently ongoing to inform archaeological and structural engineering considerations.
Templeshannon Regeneration Project: Procurement documents are being prepared in to order to establish a multi supplier framework for consultancy services. The framework is to use the Enniscorthy Town Centre projects (Templeshannon and Market Square) as the initial contract award in the establishment of the framework. This will be advertised later this month. The design team for Templeshannon will be required to develop the conceptual plan presented to EMD members in April 2025.
Officials from the UDRF section of the DHLGH visited Enniscorthy on 17th September to view the three Enniscorthy Town Centre project sites. WCC is awaiting a pending URDF funding call to make a grant application for all three projects. The three projects can only proceed if WCC is successful is securing government URDF funding.
ENNISCORTHY CCTV
A total of 22 CCTV cameras are being installed at different locations within Enniscorthy Town which have been agreed with An Garda Siochana. The scheme is expected to act as a deterrent to crime and anti-social behaviour, improve public safety, assist emergency services when investigating incidents, and assist the Local Authority in the management of public areas for the wellbeing of the town. Civil and electrical works are now complete. Other works are continuing.
Bunclody CCTV Project: The Bunclody Town CCTV Scheme has finally received approval from An Garda Síochána, after many years of trying. CCTV in Bunclody town centre will be upgraded in the coming weeks, with work commencing as soon as work is complete on the Enniscorthy scheme.
ENNISCORTHY SPORTS HUB
A contractor, Kevin Thorpe Ltd, is now working on the second phase (sports equipment storage area, open space area, changing rooms, toilets, showers, and a small office) of the Sports Hub. The project should be complete by this coming September. The second phase has been made possible through investment of €450,000 by The Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, and Wexford Co. Council providing funding of €150,000.
ENNISCORTHY NORTH BUSINESS DISTRICT (Old Dublin Road)
Some works have been carried out in recent years on the Enniscorthy North Business District (Old Dublin Road) where over 2,000 people currently work. An application for further funding was submitted to the National Transport Authority for the active travel elements of the masterplan for the area but no funding has been forthcoming to date.
MURPHY FLOODS SITE
This newly opened carpark adds 37 carparking spaces for the town. The carpark includes pedestrian linkages to both the Main Street via a set of concrete
steps and a pathway/ramp to the Dunnes Stores side. Additional public lighting has been installed. A valuation on the site has recently been received in the order of €280,000. Wexford County Council is committed to the long-term development of the site on a commercial basis; and it will be placed on the open market. It is expected that any development would take several years to come to fruition.
ENNISCORTHY FLOOD RELIEF SCHEME
The Scheme is now proceeding on a phased basis.
Phase 1 – Bridgeworks. This phase of the project will include the construction of the new River Slaney Bridge, the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge, and the construction of a new pedestrian bridge in the town centre. Public consultation on the preferred option for Phase 1 took place late last year. An application for planning approval for Phase 1 is to be submitted in Q3 2026.
Phase 2 – Flood Relief Works. This phase of the scheme will include the construction of the remaining flood relief measures for the town. The next steps are: Assess alternative design options in detail and shortlist these for consultation. Identify the preferred scheme to be brought forward for planning. Decide the appropriate planning route. Prepare planning documents and submit for planning approval.
The Scheme has a total approved budget of €51m approx. On completion, it is expected to protect 326 properties – 159 homes and 167 businesses.
BUNCLODY PARK
A Stage 2 Natura Impact Statement, plans and particulars were submitted to An Bord Pleanála 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 2025. WCC Property Section has signed contracts with the landowner to acquire lands for this project.
PAIRC NA GABHAR BUNCLODY
A revised plan for Pairc Na Gabhar has been drawn up. The proposed development will now proceed to Part 8 Planning.
RAFTER STREET PEDESTRIANISATION
New recessed bollard mounts and bollards have been installed with a facility for the Emergency Services to have access. EMD is now strictly enforcing the pedestrianisation. New signage has been erected stating current byelaw times – between 10.00am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. The possibility of extending the pedestrianisation hours to cover Saturdays and Sundays will be looked at.
ALL-WEATHER ASTRO PITCH, ROSS ROAD
The official opening took place on 24th February 2025. To contact the facility, email: wexfordfootballalliance@gmail.com.
ENNISCORTHY TRAILS
Works are ongoing on design and planning to extend the existing town trails network to link to the Ringwood and Borodale trails.
COLUMBARIUM WALL
Tender documents are being prepared for the installation of a Columbarium Wall in Enniscorthy Lawn Cemetery.
RINGWOOD
Wexford Local Development has been awarded €40,000 in government funding to resurface the entrance lane to Ringwood.
PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS
€200,000 has been secured for pedestrian crossings and traffic calming outside the Enniscorthy Community College on the Milehouse Road. This also includes funding for traffic calming from Forgelands into Bellefield Road past Lidl and Aldi.
BLACKSTAIRS
Wexford Co. Council has been awarded almost €50,000 to fund a feasibility study for a walking and cycling trail connecting Bunclody, Kiltealy, Killanne, Templeduigan and Ballywilliam.
ENNISCORTHY TECHNOLOGY PARK PHASE 2
Tobin Consulting Engineers were appointed to provide technical consultancy services for this project to service upper sites at ETP. Site investigations are complete, and design work is near completion. It is anticipated the tender for construction works will be advertised later this month.
ENNISCORTHY TECHNOLOGY PARK – IDA ADVANCE FACTORY
A planning application for a proposed advance factory building in Enniscorthy Technology Park has just been lodged. ■
A monthly update from
GreenTechHQ – A National Centre of Expertise
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin met the founder of GreenTechHQ, Ed Murphy, last month at Ireland’s first dedicated Sustainability Innovation Hub. Based in the country’s first commercial Passivhaus building, GreenTechHQ supports ambitious SMEs to scale through business excellence, innovation, sustainability and AI. From Enterprise Ireland-funded accelerators to sectoral sustainability clusters, digital transformation programmes, and sustainability roadmaps, GreenTechHQ is building the future of enterprise in the South East. It stands as a national model for how regions can drive growth, resilience and competitiveness – proving that worldclass innovation can thrive well beyond the capital.
The Taoiseach’s visit marked the launch of the second phase of the Business Advantage and Sustainability South East #BASSE2026. This is GreenTechHQ’s flagship Enterprise Ireland–funded accelerator – the first programme of its kind in Ireland.
Designed exclusively for scaling SMEs in the South East,
BASSE is a transformational leadership and growth programme that integrates commercial acceleration with sustainability at its core. Over the next 3–5 years, BASSE is projected to create more than 300 new jobs, double participant revenues, and embed resilience across the region’s SME base. By integrating energy efficiency, carbon reduction, fair work and strong governance, BASSE positions the South East as a national leader in sustainable enterprise – proving that growth and responsibility can, and must, go hand in hand. ■
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD (second from right) flanked by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD, and Ed Murphy, Founder, GreenTechHQ.
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD, fourth from left, with on his left Ian Mernagh, CEO of GreenTechHQ, and some of the participants on the BASSE programme.
‘Disintegrating before our eyes’
Féin TD for Wicklow-Wexford
(pictured above) says that Wexford’s roads are quite literally disintegrating before our eyes.
“The smaller rural roads across County Wexford are quite literally disintegrating before our eyes, and the situation in South Wicklow particularly in the southwestern part of the county is not far behind. As the Government finalises the national roads budget for 2026, it is absolutely vital that additional funding be allocated to address the deplorable con-
dition of our rural road network, which has been left at the bottom of the priority list for more than three decades.
According to NOAC inter-county comparison studies, these roads remain among the worst in Ireland.
“County Wexford alone faces a funding deficit of €190 million for rural roads. This situation is completely unacceptable.
“Wexford County Council has worked tirelessly to stretch the minimal budget received each year in an effort to complete desperately needed works. How-
ever, it is not solely the responsibility of local authorities to fund our annual roads budget. I want to acknowledge and commend the Directors of Services in both Wexford and Wicklow County Councils, along with our district engineers, for their professionalism and dedication. Unfortunately, their efforts can only bring us so far. Our roads are rapidly deteriorating, causing significant disruption for road users and presenting serious road safety risks across our counties.
“I am once again calling on the Minister to allocate the 2026 roads funding on the basis of road condition, rather than the existing model, which allocates funding per kilometre. If such a change is not possible at this time, then I am requesting that the Minister provide additional emergency funding in Budget 2026 to address the roads that are now crumbling and, in some locations, becoming almost impassable.
“It is deeply unfair that motorists are being burdened with rising vehicle maintenance costs as a direct result of inadequate road surfaces.
“I am therefore renewing my call on the Minister to provide the necessary funding to help us respond to what has become a genuine roads emergency.” ■
Amnesty Wexford – defending human rights
Founded in the 1990s, Amnesty International Wexford Group is one of eight Amnesty groups around Ireland contributing to that organisation’s tireless work in defending human rights all over the world.
This friendly and energetic group of local people holds monthly meetings at 6.30pm on the second Wednesday of every month in the lobby/coffee dock in Whites of Wexford hotel. They raise local awareness about human rights, organise events and stalls and film nights, fundraise, and campaign by letter-writing and lobbying.
They held their annual Picnic Against Apartheid in Redmond Park on 13th July. And a very successful Art Exhibition and Sale fundraiser in recent months.
Due to the ongoing violence towards the Palestinian people, the daily killings, the restrictions on aid leading to hunger, the destruction of the UNRWA buildings, and the blatant disregard for
the ceasefire by the Israeli government, the group is resuming its presence on the first Thursday of each month in Redmond Square between 6.30pm and 7pm. The next gathering will be on Thursday 5th March. The group invites all to attend, “It would be great if you could join us to express solidarity with the Palestinian people who are suffering so much.”
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. ■
Sinn
Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin
NEW FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE FOR ENNISCORTHY
Minister James Browne TD, along with the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley have just announced that Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre has been designated as a new Family Resource Centre. This positive move follows several years of campaigning by various groups and individuals including Enniscorthy East Community Development Association, and with strong support from within Wexford County Council.
This significant decision for Enniscorthy reflects the commitment in the Programme for Government to expand the capacity and network of Family Resource Centres over the lifetime of this government.
A comprehensive national application and assessment process was undertaken, led by Tusla and independently chaired by a representative of the University of Limerick. All applications were reviewed and scored against the clearly defined and published criteria, including population need, level of deprivation, child population data, existing service provision and existing service gaps.
Minister James Browne, who hosted Minister Norma Foley recently to visit the Templeshannon centre in Enniscorthy, said: “I am delighted to announce the establishment of a new Family Resource Centre for Enniscorthy, based on funding secured as part of the Budget 2026 negotiations.
“A few weeks ago I brought Minister Foley to meet the incredible team in Templeshannon so she could see for herself what they are doing locally and all the initiatives that they provide to families and people in the area. I have campaigned for a long time for the Centre to get this recognition.
“I know first-hand the incredible work that Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre does every single day for families in Enniscorthy.
“This is a huge step for the brilliant staff and team in Templeshannon. Becoming a Family Resource Centre (FRC) is significant. They are of the community and for the community and by the community, and they represent a serious and ongoing investment in children, families, and communities in the town."
Implementation and Next Steps:
In Budget 2026, the minimum funding level for all Family Resource Centres was increased from to €160,000 to €180,000 for 2026.
The successful applicants will now be allocated core funding of €180,000 for each full year of operation. Tusla will work closely with the successful applicants, with assistance from the Family Resource Centre National Forum, to support their integration into the Family Resource Centre Programme. The National Forum will assist new centres in building links with existing FRCs, offering practical guidance and partnership to ensure smooth integration into the national Programme.
Further information on the Forum’s work is available at www.familyresource.ie ■
Family Resource Centres provide a range of universal and targeted services and development opportunities that address the needs of families. These can include:
• The provision of information, advice and support to target groups and families. Information concerning the range of services and development options available locally and advice on accessing rights and entitlements. FRCs act as a focal point for onward referrals to mainstream service providers.
• Delivering education courses and training opportunities.
• The establishment and maintenance of new community groups to meet local needs and the delivery of services at local level (for example, childcare facilities, after-school clubs, men’s groups).
• The provision of counselling and support to individuals and groups.
• Developing capacity and leadership within communities.
• Supporting personal and group development.
• Practical assistance to individuals and community groups such as access to information technology and office facilities.
• Practical assistance to existing community groups such as providing help with organisational structures, assistance with accessing funding or advice on how to address specific social issues.
• Supporting networking within the community.
• Contributing to Policy work. ■
It’s great to see that a number of positive developments are in the pipleline for the east side of town.
The announcement that Templeshannon Community Centre is to be designated a Family Resouce Centre and to receive €180,000 in annual funding is a huge boost for families in the town.
Wexford Co. Council has just revealed its masterplan for the Turret Rocks site – see page 10. Any development there is subject to funding, so it may take some time before any progress will be visible on the ground.
Within a matter of weeks, the Captain Wafer Hall will reopen as a community hub. Keep an eye on the Slaney News Facebook page for updates. ■
Keep up to date with what’s happening Eastside:
Enniscorthy East Community Development Association Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/EEastCommunity
Templeshannon Community Centre: ]https://www.facebook.com/TempleshannonCommunityCentre
Enniscorthy Community Alliance Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthycommunityalliance ■
Captain Wafer Hall .
Some of the many activities at Templeshannon Community Centre
Sustainable Enniscorthy
This month Sustainable Enniscorthy asks is your pension fuelling the climate crisis?
‘There’s £3 trillion in UK pensions – and that’s our money. Right now it’s invested without our say in companies driving deforestation and funding fossil fuels. But we can change this. Greening our pensions cuts our carbon footprint 21x more than going veggie, giving up flying, and switching energy providers.’
This is a quote from a UK think-tank Make My Money Matter. Some other stark findings: ‘UK pension schemes invest a staggering £88 billion in fossil fuel companies – that’s £3,000 per pension holder in businesses like Shell and BP.’ In addition the researchers found that ‘for every £10 you put in your pension, £2 is linked to deforestation.’
Is the situation much different in Ireland?
Pensions are a part of the international financial services sector with some of the large international players operating in Ireland which would indicate similar conditions apply in Ireland. On 11th February of this year the Business Post carried the headline, ‘The €9 billion fossil fuel footprint in Irish private pensions’, with specific percentages varying by provider, for example Zurich’s pension fund invests over 8.8% in fossil fuels, while other providers like Aviva have some funds with close to 0% exposure.
On a positive note, Ireland’s Fossil Fuel Divestment Act 2018 requires the stateowned Ireland Strategic Investment Fund (ISIF) to divest from direct fossil fuel investments, the ISIF has completed its divestment. The legislation does not apply to private-sector Irish pension funds.
What action can be taken?
Friends of the Earth Ireland have a comprehensive guide to pension fossil fuel divestment. Why divest? Friends of the Earth state that ‘to avert massive ecological breakdown and its effects on human life and health – we need to keep 60% of the world’s fossil fuels in the ground. A key way to take the power back from this
destructive industry is to de-fund it.’ Worldwide over 1,500 institutions have already divested to the value of 40 trillion dollars. Just imagine the impact if just a portion of this amount is reinvested in alternative clean energy initiatives.
If you are part of a company pension fund, first talk to your employer and coworkers, if it is an issue that concerns your work colleagues make contact with your employer. Depending on the size of the company identify the relevant individual or department within the organisation to write to and ask the following:
What your pension is invested in?
What are the options available to employees to divest from fossil fuels?
Was the carbon footprint of different schemes, and fossil fuel divestment, considered when the organisation chose a particular pension fund provider or scheme?
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!
If you have a private pension arrange a call with your advisor/broker or directly with your provider asking similar questions listed above and inform them that you do not want your pension savings invested in fossil fuels.
As a New Year resolution, divest your pension, but first be informed, read the Friends of the Earth Guide, take this one action and massively reduce your carbon footprint. The National Pension Helpline website is a mine of information on all things to do with pensions and investments.
Voices of Harmony, the new men’s singing group in Enniscorthy, is currently looking for new members. Now is a great time to start a new pastime. If you like to sing why not go along and join in every Monday evening. NO AUDITIONS REQUIRED, JUST SHOW UP AND SING ALONG WITH THE GROUP. New members are always welcome! For more information, call Seamus on 087 2930510. ■
InTuition Vocational Training Open Day takes place on March 25th from 11am–3pm, offering a great opportunity to learn more about this specialised programme designed to help learners gain the skills needed for employment or progression into further training or education.
The course offers QQI Level 3 certification, runs over 24 months with flexible start dates, and includes 6 months of support after completion. InTuition is available to those in receipt of social welfare and is based in Kilcannon, Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy (Y21 F5D7). For more information, call 087 191 1702, visit www.reachability.ie, or email in-tuition@reachability.ie ■
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.
Action on dereliction & vacancy
Action on Derelict and Vacant Property continues to be a key focus for Wexford Co. Council which has issued its 5-year retrospective on Derelict and Vacant Property within Co. Wexford (some of their graphics are shown on this page).
The Planning Department of Wexford Co. Council is responsible for dealing with derelict property within the county in accordance with the Derelict Sites Act 1990.
This Act allows the council to enforce the remediation of such sites by serving notices directing owners to clean up the sites, prosecute owners who do not comply with notices served, and make a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) if the property continues to remain derelict.
A total of 386 inspections took place on derelict or vacant property in 2025 with 136 formal notices under the Derelict Sites Act issued during this period.
During 2025, 300 open files were under investigation, 66 new derelict files were opened, and 42 files were closed.
Derelict Site Levies amounting to €325,850 were issued to 29 property owners during 2025. At the end of 2025, 149 properties are now officially on the Derelict Site Register.
Over the 5-year period from 2021 to 2025, the number of properties on the Derelict Site Register in Wexford County Council increased from 54 in 2021 to 149 in 2025.
Chief Executive of Wexford Co. Council Eddie Taaffe says, “Wexford Co. Council will continue to resource and act forcibly on dereliction throughout our county by utilising the Derelict Sites Act and, where necessary, using our powers to CPO property where owners refuse to resolve dereliction and vacancy.” ■
DERELICT SITES
Sites Act 1990. This Act allows us to enforce the clean-up of these sites. We can: Serve notices to owners to clean up derelict sites Prosecute owners who do not comply with notices served Make a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO), carry out works to clean up the derelict
Wexford County Council invites applicants for the following post: Chief Technician
Closing Date Thursday 5th February 2026.
Selection for all posts will be by means of interview and candidates may be shortlisted based on applications submitted. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled.
Qualifications, application forms and further particulars for all posts are available from our website at www.wexfordcoco.ie
Please note all applications for the above post must be Typed and submitted by Email only to recruitment@wexfordcoco.ie
Printed hard copies will NOT be accepted.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Fáiltíonn
Comhairle Contae
Loch Garman roimh iarratasóirí don phost seo a leanas: Príomhtheicneoir
Is é an 5 Feabhra 2026 an Dáta Deiridh.
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.
Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.
2026 Amenity & Arts and Residents
Association Grant Schemes
(1) 2026 Amenity & Arts Grant Scheme –Small Scale Funding
This funding scheme is aimed at providing small-scale support to community & voluntary based groups and is designed to assist with a wide variety of projects that promote social inclusion and build strong communities e.g.
053 919 6000
www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
▪ Small scale village improvements,
▪ Community development initiatives,
▪ romoting local heritage,
▪ Planting trees, shrubs, landscaping,
▪ Promoting an interest in the Arts – e.g., Stage productions, arts & crafts exhibitions, public recitals, performances & arts workshops, participatory arts projects etc.
(2) 2026 Residents Association Grant Scheme
Projects will be considered within private housing estates ONLY which are designed to improve community facilities or enhance the appearance of the area concerned (maximum grant payable is €600). Works that will qualify include, but are not limited to:
▪ Planting of trees, shrubs, landscaping,
▪ Community development initiatives,
▪ Promoting social inclusion,
▪ Promoting local heritage.
Applications should be made online at www.wexfordcoco.ie/community-and-sports. Application Forms and Full Particulars for both Grant Schemes are also available from your local Municipal / Borough Office.
Enniscorthy: Phone 053-9196840 or E-mail emdreception@wexfordcoco.ie
Gorey: Phone 053-9483800 or E-mail gorey@wexfordcoco.ie
New Ross: Phone 053-9196700 or E-mail newross@wexfordcoco.ie
Rosslare: Phone 053-9196913 or E-mail rosslaremunicipaldistrict@wexfordcoco.ie
Wexford: Phone 053-9166990 or E-mail wexfordborough@wexfordcoco.ie
The latest date for receipt of completed Application Forms is 4:00pm Friday, 13th February 2026.
Closed Vested Burial Ground Maintenance Grant 2026
Wexford County Council seeks applications under the Closed Vested Burial Ground Maintenance Grant Scheme 2026. The purpose of the grant scheme is to allow the Council to contribute financially to local voluntary groups such as Resident’s Associations, Tidy Towns Groups, burial ground committees etc. and qualifying individuals who carry out burial ground maintenance, and incur expenses associated with that work within Wexford County Council closed vested burial grounds – a full list of qualifying burial grounds is available at https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/burial-grounds/types-of-burialgrounds-in-county-wexford
Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
A grant of up to €600 may be available to successful applicants.
How to Apply:
On line application form is available at: https://customerservice.wexfordcoco.ie/en/service/Closed_Vested_Burial_Grou nd_Maintenance_Grant
Alternatively copies of application forms can be accessed at: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/burial-grounds/types-of-burialgrounds-in-county-wexford
For any queries or to request an application form please email community@wexfordcoco.ie or phone Roisin Fitzgerald on 053 919 6427.
Wexford County Council has vacancies in the following areas of our Community Employment Scheme
Library Support Worker –1 position Library HQ/Archives, Carricklawn
Duties to include:
Library Support Worker – Support Work for Library/Archive Staff – Computer Skills Required.
To apply for this position and for further information please contact – Bernie Lennon, CE Scheme Supervisor, Wexford County Council on (087) 6575743 during office hours 9am –5pm or Tracey Begley, CE Scheme Supervisor WCC on (087) 0029702 during office hours 9am – 5pm or email ceswexfordnorth@wexfordcoco.ie
The closing date for applications is Tuesday 17th February 2026 at 4.30pm.
Please note that persons applying for these positions must satisfy the Department of Social Protection criteria to participate in the Community Employment Scheme.
Wexford County Council is an Equal Opportunities employer.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993 Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the roads listed hereunder on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to facilitate the holding of the Enniscorthy Saint Patrick’s Day Parade 2026.
Road Closures 1: Duffry Street (Cathedral Street), Main Street and Castle Street and Castle Hill
Street Lights Broken? Report on www.deadsureapp.com
053 919 6000
www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
(R702) (between the junction of Duffry Hill, Duffry Gate and Duffry Street and the junction of Abbey S quare Roundabout and Castle Hill) from 14:00 to 17:30 on Tuesday 17 March 2026, and
Weafer Street (R702) (from its junction with Market Square to its junction with Duffry Hill) from 14:00 to 17:30 on Tuesday 17 March 2025.
Alternative Route: Traffic (Southbound)
Duffry Hill to Lymington Road to Arnold’s Cross to Mill Park Road to Abbey Square Roundabout via R890 and R744.
Traffic (Northbound)
Roundabout on Abbey Square to Mill Park Road to Arnold’s Cross to Lymington Road to Duffry Hill via R744 and R890.
Road Closures 2: The Promenade (from its junction with Seamus Rafter Bridge to its junction of Mill Yard Lane) and Quay Street (from its junction with R744 at Mill Park Road and its junction with The Promenade) from 13:30 to 17:30 on Tuesday 17 March 2026.
Alternative Route: From Seamus Rafter Bridge to Abbey Square and Mill Park Road to the junction with Mill Park Lane and via Mill Park Lane to Salt House Lane.
Alternative routes will be signposted. No Vehicular Access will be facilitated.
Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 17 February 2026 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993
Temporary Closing of Roads
Wexford County Council gives notice of its intention to pedestrianise the roads listed hereunder and to temporary close the listed roads to vehicular traffic on Monday 17 March 2026 to facilitate the holding of the Gorey Saint Patrick’s Day Parade 2026.
Road Closures 1: One Way traffic flow on Scholars Walk and Woodbury from 11:30 to 15:30 on Monday 17 March 2026, and
Alternative Route: Traffic – Sign posted locally.
Road Closures 2: Carnew Road (from Woodbury Roundabout to R722), McCurtain Street, Main
Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Street, Esmonde Street from 14:30 to 17:00 on Monday 17 March 2026.
Alternative Route: Paul Funge Boulevard, R741 Ballycanew Road, R732, R741 Courtown Road to R772 to Arklow road.
Alternative routes will be signposted. No Vehicular Access will be facilitated.
Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12:00 noon on Tuesday 17 February 2026 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993
Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council intends to close the roads listed hereunder to vehicular traffic on Tuesday 17 March 2026 from 12:00 to 16:00 to facilitate the holding of the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in New Ross Town.
Road Closures: Charles Street and South Street, between its junction with Cross Street and its junction with Charles Street.
Alternative routes will be signposted. Local access will be facilitated as far as possible. Stewards will be in place at all junctions. No Vehicular Access will be facilitated.
Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection in writing via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12:00 noon on Tuesday 17 February 2026 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford.
Section 75 of Roads Act 1993
Temporary Closing of Roads
Notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council proposes to close the public roads listed hereunder to vehicular traffic, for the times stated, on Tuesday 17 March 2026 to facilitate the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Wexford Town. Road Closure
From Rocklands / Maudlintown via The Faythe, Kevin Barry Street, King Street Upper, Joseph Street, Bride Place, Roche’s Road, School Street, John Street, Hill Street, 1798 Street, Redmond Square.
Traffic approaching Wexford Town via the R741 can divert via Ardcavan, Castlebridge, Crossabeg, the N11, Ferrycarrig, Newtown Road.
Local access will be facilitated as far as possible. Stewards will be in place at all junctions.
Any person wishing to object to the closing of this road should lodge the objection, in writing, via the online portal https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or in hard copy before 12:00 noon on Tuesday 17 February 2026 to the County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
Declaration of Roads to be Public Roads Under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 and Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (As Amended)
Wexford County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to consider the making of a declaration that the roads listed hereunder be public roads in accordance with Section 11 of the Roads Act, 1993.
Maps showing the roads proposed to be taken in charge may be inspected during office hours, 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm from Wednesday 4th of February 2026 at Wexford County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the inspection of the above maps is 4.00pm on Friday 6th of March 2026.
Objections to or representations regarding the above proposals may be made in writing to: The County Secretary, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford.
The latest date for the receipt of written objections/representations is 4.00pm on Monday 23rd of March 2026.
Publication of Residential Zoned Land Tax Annual Draft Map for 2027 and opportunity to make rezoning requests on Final Map for 2026
An annual draft map, prepared in accordance with Section 653C, as modified by Section 653M of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, has been published on the website maintained by the local authority and is available for inspection at its offices.
The annual draft map for 2027 has been prepared for the purposes of identifying land that satisfies the relevant criteria and is to be subject to the residential zoned land tax.
Residential properties, notwithstanding that they may be included on the annual draft map, shall not be chargeable to the residential zoned land tax.
Land which satisfies the relevant criteria is a reference to land that –
(a) is included in a development plan, in accordance with section 10(2) (a) of the Act of 2000 or section 43(6) of the Act of 2024, or local area plan, in accordance with section 19(2)(a) of the Act of 2000, zoned –
(i) solely or primarily for residential use, or
(ii) for a mixture of uses, including residential use,
(b) it is reasonable to consider may have access, or be connected, to public infrastructure and facilities, including roads and footpaths, public lighting, foul sewer drainage, surface water drainage and water supply, necessary for dwellings to be developed and with sufficient service capacity available for such development, and
(c) it is reasonable to consider is not affected, in terms of its physical condition, by matters to a sufficient extent to preclude the provision of dwellings, including contamination or the presence of known archaeological or historic remains, but which is not land –
(i) that is referred to in paragraph (a)(i) and, having regard only to development (within the meaning of the Act of 2000 or, on and from the commencement of Part 4 of the Act of 2024, within the meaning of the Act of 2024) which is not unauthorised development (within the meaning of the Act of 2000 or, on and from the commencement of Part 4 of the Act of 2024, within the meaning of the Act of 2024), is in use as premises, in which a trade or profession is being carried on, that is liable to commercial rates, that it is reasonable to consider is being used to provide services to residents of adjacent residential areas,
(ii) that is referred to in paragraph (a)(ii), unless it is reasonable to consider that the land is vacant or idle,
(iia) the development of which would not conform with –
(I) in a case in which the land is zoned in a development plan under the Act of 2000, the phased basis in accordance with which development of land is to take place under the plan, as detailed in the core strategy included in that plan in accordance with section 10(2A)(d) of the Act of 2000, or
(II) in a case in which the land is zoned in a local area plan, the objective, consistent with the objectives and core strategy of the development plan for the area in respect of which the local area plan is prepared, of development of land on a phased basis, included in the local area plan in accordance with section 19(2) of the Act of 2000, or
(III) in a case in which the land is zoned in a development plan under the Act of 2024, the order of priority or phasing (where such order of priority or phasing is based on the timing of the provision of any public infrastructure and facilities, as referred to in paragraph (b)), if any, for development indicated in the development plan or an urban area plan, priority area plan or coordinated area plan (in each case within the meaning of the Act of 2024) for an area within which the land is situated. on the date on which satisfaction of the criteria in this section is being assessed,
(iii) that it is reasonable to consider is required for, or is integral to, occupation by –
(I) social, community or governmental infrastructure and facilities, including infrastructure and facilities used for the purposes of public administration or the provision of education or healthcare,
(II) transport facilities and infrastructure,
(III) energy infrastructure and facilities,
(IV) telecommunications infrastructure and facilities, (V) water and wastewater infrastructure and facilities, (VI) waste management and disposal infrastructure, or (VII) recreational infrastructure, including sports facilities and playgrounds,
(iv) that is subject to a statutory designation that may preclude development, or
(v) on which the derelict sites levy is payable in accordance with the Derelict Sites Act 1990.
Submissions on the annual draft map may be made in writing to the local authority concerned not later than 1 April 2026, regarding –
(I) either the inclusion in or exclusion from the final map of specific sites, or
(II) the date on which a site first satisfied the relevant criteria.
Submissions should include a name and address, reasons for inclusion or exclusion of lands, along with a map of scale
1:1,000 (urban area) or 1:2,500 (rural area) where the submission is made by a landowner, clearly identifying the area of land subject of the submission.
Any such written submissions received by 1 April 2026 other than such elements of a submission which may constitute personal data, shall be published on the website maintained by the local authority concerned not later than 11 April 2026.
The proposed inclusions and proposed exclusions on the annual draft map are subject to submissions received. Any landowners who supports the exclusion of their land should make a submission in support of such exclusion.
Rezoning Requests
Where land is identified on the final map for 2026, published on 31 January 2026, as being subject to the residential zoned land tax, a person may from 1 February 2026 to 1 April 2026, in respect of aforementioned land that such a person owns, make a submission to the local authority requesting a variation of the zoning of that land. Any such submission should include evidence of ownership, detailed reasons for any rezoning request, which may include continuation of an ongoing economic activity, along with a map to a scale of 1:1,000 (urban) or 1:2,500 (rural) clearly identifying the relevant plot of land.
Any such written rezoning requests received by 1 April 2026 other than such elements of a submission which may constitute personal data, shall be published on the website maintained by the local authority within the relevant statutory period. A rezoning request acknowledgement letter containing details of the recent planning history of the land will be issued by 30 April from the local authority to the landowner. This acknowledgement letter can be used to support a claim to an exemption from the tax arising in respect of the land which is the subject of the request for 2026. This claim must be made in the 2026 annual residential zoned land tax return, which must be made to the Revenue Commissioners on or before 23 May 2026. Please see www.revenue.ie for details.
All rezoning requests made will be considered by the Local Authority having regard to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Foilsiú na Dréacht-léarscáile Bliantúla i
dtaca leis an gCáin ar Thalamh Chriosaithe Chónaithe don bhliain 2027 agus deis chun iarrataí ar athchriosú a dhéanamh ar an Léarscáil Deiridh don bhliain 2026
Tá dréacht-léarscáil bhliantúil, a ullmhaíodh i gcomhréir le hAlt 653C, arna modhnú le hAlt 653M den Acht Comhdhlúite Cá-
nacha, 1997, foilsithe ar an suíomh gréasáin arna chothabháil ag an údarás áitiúil agus tá sí ar fáil lena hiniúchadh ag a oifigí.
Ullmhaíodh an dréacht-léarscáil bhliantúil don bhliain 2027 chun críocha talamh lena ndéantar na critéir ábhartha a shásamh a shainaithint agus tá sí le bheith faoi réir na cánach ar thalamh chriosaithe chónaithe.
Ní bheidh réadmhaoine cónaithe, in ainneoin go bhféadfaí iad a áireamh ar an dréacht-léarscáil bhliantúil, inmhuirearaithe don cháin ar thalamh chriosaithe chónaithe.
Is tagairt í talamh lena ndéantar na critéir ábhartha a chomhlíonadh do thalamh –
(a) atá san áireamh i bplean forbartha, de réir alt 10(2)(a) d’Acht, 2000 nó alt 43(6) d'Acht 2024, nó plean ceantair áitiúil, de réir alt 19(2)(a) d’Acht, 2000, atá criosaithe –(i) chun críocha úsáide cónaithe amháin nó go príomha, nó (ii) do mheascán úsáidí, lena n-áirítear úsáid chónaithe,
(b) ina bhfuil sé réasúnach a mheas go bhféadfadh rochtain a bheith ag an talamh, nó go bhfuil baint aige, le bonneagar agus áiseanna poiblí, lena n-áirítear bóithre agus cosáin, soilsiú poiblí, draenáil shéarach bréan, draenáil uisce dromchla agus soláthar uisce, is gá chun áiteanna cónaithe a fhorbairt agus a bhfuil acmhainn seirbhíse dóthanach ar fáil d’fhorbairt den sórt sin, agus
(c) go bhfuil sé réasúnach a bhreithniú nach ndéantar difear dó, i dtéarmaí a bhail fhisiciúil, mar gheall ar nithe ar leor iad chun soláthar áitreabh a chosc, lena n-áirítear éilliú nó taisí seandálaíochta nó stairiúla aitheanta a bheith ann, ach nach talamh é –(i) lena ndéantar tagairt dó i mír (a)(i) agus, ag féachaint d’fhorbairt amháin (de réir bhrí Acht, 2000 nó, ar thosach feidhme Chuid 4 d’Acht 2024 agus uaidh síos, de réir bhrí Acht 2024) nach forbairt nár údaraíodh í (de réir bhrí Acht, 2000 nó, ar thosach feidhme Chuid 4 d’Acht 2024 agus uaidh síos, de réir bhrí Acht 2024), atá in úsáid mar áitribh, ina bhfuil trádáil nó gairm á seoladh, atá faoi dhliteanas rátaí tráchtála, a bhfuil sé réasúnach a mheas go bhfuiltear á úsáid chun seirbhísí a sholáthar do chónaitheoirí ceantair chónaithe cóngaracha,
(ii) lena ndéantar tagairt dó i mír (a)(ii), mura bhfuil sé réasúnach a mheas go bhfuil an talamh neamhshealbhaithe nó díomhaoin,
(iia) nach mbeadh a fhorbairt i gcomhréir le –
(I) i gcás ina bhfuil an talamh criosaithe i bplean forbartha faoi Acht 2000, an bonn céimnithe a ndéanfar forbairt ar thalamh faoin bplean i gcomhréir leis, mar a shonraítear sa phríomhstraitéis atá sa phlean sin de réir alt 10(2A)(d) d'Acht 2000, nó
Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
(II) i gcás ina bhfuil an talamh criosaithe i bplean ceantair áitiúil, an cuspóir, i gcomhréir le cuspóirí agus le príomhstraitéis an phlean forbartha don cheantar a n-ullmhaítear an plean ceantair áitiúil ina leith, chun talamh a fhorbairt ar bhonn céimnithe, atá san áireamh sa phlean ceantair áitiúil de réir alt 19(2) d'Acht 2000, nó
(III) i gcás ina bhfuil an talamh criosaithe i bplean forbartha faoi Acht 2024, an t-ord tosaíochta nó an céimniú (i gcás ina bhfuil an t-ord tosaíochta nó an céimniú sin bunaithe ar uainiú sholáthar aon bhonneagair agus saoráidí poiblí, dá dtagraítear i mír (b)), más ann, le haghaidh forbartha a léirítear sa phlean forbartha nó i bplean limistéir uirbigh, i bplean limistéir tosaíochta nó i bplean limistéir comhordaithe (i ngach cás de réir bhrí Acht 2024) le haghaidh limistéar ina bhfuil an talamh suite. ar an dáta ar a bhfuil comhlíonadh na gcritéar san alt seo á measúnú,
(iii) faoina bhfuil sé réasúnach a mheas go bhfuil sé ag teastáil le haghaidh áitithe, nó go bhfuil sé ina chuid dhílis d'áitiú ag –
(I) bonneagar agus saoráidí sóisialta, pobail nó rialtais, lena n-áirítear bonneagar agus saoráidí a úsáidtear chun críocha riaracháin phoiblí nó chun oideachas nó cúram sláinte a sholáthar, (II) saoráidí agus bonneagar iompair, (III) bonneagar agus saoráidí fuinnimh, (IV) bonneagar agus saoráidí teileachumarsáide, (V) bonneagar agus saoráidí uisce agus fuíolluisce, (VI) bainistíocht dramhaíola agus bonneagar diúscartha, nó (VII) bonneagar fóillíochta, lena n-áirítear saoráidí spóirt agus clóis súgartha,
(iv) atá faoi réir ainmniú reachtúil a d'fhéadfadh bac a chur ar fhorbairt, nó
(v) ar a bhfuil tobhach na suíomhanna tréigthe iníoctha de réir an Achta um Láithreáin Thréigthe 1990.
Féadfar aighneachtaí ar an dréacht-léarscáil bhliantúil a dhéanamh i scríbhinn chuig an údarás áitiúil lena mbaineann tráth nach déanaí ná an 1 Aibreán 2026, maidir le— (I) láithreáin shonracha a áireamh sa léarscáil deiridh nó a eisiamh ón léarscáil deiridh, nó (II) an dáta a shásaigh láithreán na critéir iomchuí den chéad uair.
Ba cheart go n-áireofaí in aighneachtaí ainm agus seoladh, cúiseanna le tailte a áireamh nó a eisiamh, mar aon le léarscáil ar scála 1:1,000 (ceantar uirbeach) nó 1: 2,500 (ceantar tuaithe) nuair atá aighneacht á déanamh ag úinéir talaimh, lena sainaithnítear go soiléir an ceantar de thalamh is ábhar don aighneacht.
Aon aighneachtaí i scríbhinn den sórt sin a gheofar faoin 1 Aibreán 2026 seachas na codanna sin d’aighneacht a d’fhéad-
fadh a bheith ina sonraí pearsanta, foilseofar iad ar an suíomh gréasáin arna chothabháil ag an údarás áitiúil lena mbaineann tráth nach déanaí ná an 11 Aibreán 2026.
Tá na cuimsithe molta agus na heisiaimh mholta ar an dréachtléarscáil bhliantúil faoi réir aighneachtaí a fhaightear. Ba cheart d aon úinéirí talún a thacaíonn le heisiamh a gcuid talún aighneacht a dhéanamh mar thaca leis an eisiamh sin.
Iarrataí ar Athchriosú
I gcás ina sainaithnítear talamh ar an léarscáil deiridh don bhliain 2026, arna foilsiú ar an 31 Eanáir 2026, mar thalamh faoi réir na cánach ar thalamh chriosaithe chónaithe, féadfaidh duine, i leith talamh thuasluaite ar leis an duine sin é, aighneacht a dhéanamh chuig an údarás áitiúil, ón 1 Feabhra 2026 go dtí an 1 Aibreán 2026, ina n-iarrann sé/sí go n-athrófar criosú na talún sin. Ba cheart go n-áireofaí le haon aighneacht den sórt sin fianaise ar úinéireacht, cúiseanna mionsonraithe le haon iarraidh ar athchriosú, lena bhféadfaí leanúint de ghníomhaíocht eacnamaíoch leanúnach a áireamh, chomh maith le léarscáil ar scála 1:1,000 (uirbeach) nó 1:2,500 (tuaithe) ar a sainaithnítear an píosa talún ábhartha go soiléir.
Aon iarrataí ar athchriosú i scríbhinn den sórt sin a gheofar faoin 1 Aibreán 2026 seachas na codanna sin d’aighneacht a d’fhéadfadh a bheith ina sonraí pearsanta, foilseofar iad ar an suíomh gréasáin arna chothabháil ag an údarás áitiúil laistigh den tréimhse reachtúil ábhartha. Eiseofar litir admhála um iarraidh ar athchriosú ina mbeidh mionsonraí faoi stair phleanála na talún le déanaí ón údarás áitiúil chuig an úinéir talún faoin 30 Aibreán. Is féidir an litir admhála a úsáid chun tacú le héileamh ar dhíolúine ón gcáin a eascraíonn i leith na talún atá ina hábhar don iarraidh don bhliain 2026. Ní mór an t-éileamh sin a dhéanamh i dtuairisceán bliantúil na cánach ar thalamh chriosaithe chónaithe don bhliain 2026, nach mór a dhéanamh chuig na Coimisinéirí Ioncaim ar an 23 Bealtaine 2026 nó roimhe sin. Féach le do thoil ar www.revenue.ie le haghaidh mionsonraí
Déanfaidh an tÚdarás Áitiúil gach iarraidh ar athchriosú a mheas ag féachaint do phleanáil chuí agus d’fhorbairt inbhuanaithe an cheantair.
Compulsory Acquisition of Land/Buildings
Notice of the making of a Compulsory Purchase Order under section 76 of and the Third Schedule to the Housing Act 1966 as extended by section 10 of the Local Government (no 2) Act, 1960 (substituted by section 86 of the Housing Act, 1966) and amended and extended by the Planning and Developments Acts 2000-2017, the Local Government Acts 2000-2003 including sections 11 and 184 of
Comhairle Contae
Garman
the Local Government Act 2001 and part xiv of the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2017 including section 213 (2) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 and all other acts thereby enabling to be published in accordance with article 4(a) of the Third Schedule to the Housing Act 1966 (as amended)
Entitled Wexford County Council
Compulsory Purchase Order No. 01 of 2026
In The County of Wexford.
Land/Buildings at 6/7 Castle Street, Enniscorthy Urban, Co. Wexford.
Wexford County Council (hereinafter referred to as “the local authority”) in exercise of the powers conferred upon them by section 76 of and the Third Schedule to the Housing Act,1966, as extended by section 10 of the Local Government (No 2) Act, 1960 as substituted by section 86 of the Housing Act, 1966 and as amended by the Planning and Development Acts, 2000 to 2017, have made an order entitled as above which is about to be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála (hereinafter referred to as “the Board”) for confirmation.
If confirmed, the order will authorise the local authority to acquire compulsorily the land/buildings described in the Schedule hereto for the purposes of the performance of the local authority’s functions and to facilitate the development of The Castle Heritage Quarter package of The Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan (2023).
Owners, lessees and occupiers of the lands/buildings described in the Schedule hereto will receive individual written notices.
Any objection to the compulsory acquisition of land/buildings described in the Schedule hereto must state in writing the grounds of objection and be sent addressed to An Coimisiún Pleanála (The Board), 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, so as to reach the said Board before 5.30 p.m. on 1st of April 2026
The Board cannot confirm a Compulsory Purchase Order in respect of the lands/buildings if an objection is made in respect of the acquisition by an owner, lessee or occupier of the land/buildings, and not withdrawn, until it has caused to be held an Oral Hearing into the matter and until it has considered the objection and the report of the person who held the Oral Hearing. However, regard should be had to the provisions of Section 218 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended, which provide that where as a result of the transfer of functions under Section 214, 215, 215A, 215B or 215C of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended, the Board would otherwise be required to hold
a local inquiry, public local inquiry or oral hearing, that requirement shall not apply to the Board but the Board may, at its absolute discretion, hold an Oral Hearing in relation to the matter, the subject of the function transferred.
A copy of the Order and of the deposited map may be seen at all reasonable hours at:
Wexford County Council, Property Management Unit, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford Town and at Enniscorthy Municipal District Offices, Market Square, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.
SCHEDULE:
LAND/Buildings
PROPOSED TO BE COMPULSORILY ACQUIRED
Land/Buildings other than land consisting of a house or houses unfit for human habitation and not capable of being rendered fit for human habitation at reasonable expense.
100 0.05 Ha Enniscorthy Enniscorthy Urban Land/ Buildings Donncha Walsh and Paddy Walsh. My Sport Limited. Apartments 1 to 10 – not known. My Sport Limited. Apartments 1 to 10 – not known.
Elizabeth Hore Director of Services
Tenders
The following tender competitions are currently active. If you wish to obtain further information and make a submission for any of the tenders please visit www.etenders.gov.ie
Works Contractors for Tourism Development Projects and Conversion/ Conservation Works to Historic Buildings –Multi Supplier Framework (Initial Project: Norman Themed Visitor Centre, New Ross).
MIKE DENVER and guests in concert at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy
A GREAT NIGHT OUT.... MIKE DENVER and Guests at the Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club...
Mike Denver, one of Galway's favourite sons, is riding the crest of a wave with a vast audience throughout Ireland – North and South, and making inroads in the the UK with sellout concerts in England and Scotland over the past couple of years.
Mike's meteoric rise in popularity has included being voted 'Entertainer of the Year 2016' together with a No. 1 album of the Year 'Cut Loose' at the ACMA Awards on RTE TV.
With his excellent backing band, Mike presents a two-and-a-half hour, highenergy show which features all his 'Hits' including 'Tommy K', 'Wasn't that a Party', 'Galway Girl', 'Blown Away', plus 'hits' from the 60s and 70s.
RIVERSIDE PARK HOTEL, ENNISCORTHY, FRIDAY 6th FEBRUARY. Special Guests are Claudia Buckley and Jack Keogh. Tickets at the Hotel and Ticketmaster
Definitely a show not to be missed! n
RIVERSIDE PARK HOTEL, ENNISCORTHY, FRIDAY 6TH FEBRUARY 2026.
Special Guests: JACK KEOGH AND CLAUDIA BUCKLEY.
Tickets at Hotel reception and Ticketmaster.ie THE PERFECT NIGHT OUT! n
Lots happening at Enniscorthy’s Presentation Arts Centre
The Salvage Shop presented by Blackstairs Mountain Theatre
Dates: 30th and 31st January, and 5th, 6th and 7th February 2026. Venue: The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy.
Blackstairs Mountain Theatre have commenced their run of The Salvage Shop written by renowned playwright Jim Nolan.
The award-winning play is set in the fictional seaside town of Garris. It centres on the strained relationship between Sylvie, an alcoholic bandmaster and opera enthusiast who runs the salvage shop, and his son Eddie, a euphonium player who left the band years ago.
Eddie seeks reconciliation with his father, invoking the spirit of Luciano Pavarotti to bridge the gap between them. The play explores themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the healing power of music within a family and community.
Among the star-studded cast are three All-Ireland winning actors –Michael Dunbar, Andy Doyle, and Murt Murphy. And the cast also features the talented Eimear Crean, Helena O'Flynn Roche and John O’Gorman who also directs the piece, with atmospheric music, effects, and sound by Joan O’Ruairc.
Tickets available from box office 053 9233000 and presentationcentre.ie for this HIGHLY RECOMMENDED production. n
David Killeen: ‘Walls Of Containment’ Exhibition running to February 21st, 2026
The Presentation Arts Centre is proud to present ‘Walls Of Containment’, a new solo exhibition by photographer David Killeen which documents 21 psychiatric hospitals (mental asylums) across the Republic of Ireland constructed between 1814 and 1922. For more details: See page 75. n
Cu�fola Debut & Athenaeum Anew
Words by Dorn Simon
Pics by Damien Smullen Photography
Cufola, formed in 2025, are a black metal band from Co. Wexford who had their debut gig on Saturday 24th January at one of Outrage Entertainment’s ever-growing and professional gig offerings in Enniscorthy’s repurposed and latest place to be – The Athenaeum.
Cufola are:
Dylan Holmes - Bass, Eoin McMahon - Vox
Luke Anderson - Drums, Patrick O’Connell - Guitar
They are the evolution of former band Stitched Lips.
After deciding to change direction, adjust their line-up, write new material, and cement themselves as a dedicated working band, Cufola put in eight months weekly practice to deliver an outstanding debut.
Opening for headliners Tide7, with support from Enniscorthy Slam-masters Dead Memories (for their first homecoming gig of 2026) and Praelium.
No better line-up nor venue for this remarkable debut, as the atmosphere grew.
The Athenaeum, a historic building once housing a theatre for seven decades, was also a stronghold for volunteers during the 1916 Rising.
It has come back into use in the last year, with groups slowly breathing life back into its well-seasoned walls. The stories it holds also held a need for restoration –not many would give, but locals such as Bryan Steacy of Outrage Entertainment saw its worth and took to the helm to pump new life into it again, working hard and conscientiously, to make the venue a safe environment for all.
Bringing with it professional promotions, lighting, sound, set design & backdrop to make local gigs more concert worthy.
Feedback has been 100% with punters and bands alike stating it is akin to established London venues past and present such as the Town & Country Club/The Forum and the 100 Club, or Dublin’s old haunt – the SFX or Dun Laoghaire’s Top Hat. The addition of a dry-ice fog machine, and professional lighting has already shapeshifted the venue into a concert hall.
So, a smashing place to play a debut, Cufola nailed their set and so the night's mosh-pit was opened.
Their setlist included: End
Monopoly of Violence Following Burn the Vitch No Longer Human
The delivery was pristine, dark, black as coal.
The corpse paint was designed with precision, the stage presence confident. A huge success and was well received.
Band members reflect on the experience:
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
Dylan Holmes - Bass:
“The venue was awesome, for our debut gig this was big for us, playing with Praelium, Dead Memories and Tide7 was an experience I won't forget, they were beyond amazing. We hope to be back soon and we will be heavier and louder.”
Eoin McMahon - Vocals:
“Beer was drunk. Tunes were played. Mad craic was had.
The crowd was unbelievable, thanks everyone so much for your support of Cu�fola's debut gig.
The venue was deadly, can't wait to play at the Athenaeum again! Thanks so much to Outrage Entertainment for having us!!”
Patrick O’Connor - Guitar:
“I had a good time, the venue was cool and the sound was class.”
Overall, a great repurpose of venue, an established alternative music scene, and a fantastic live start for Cufola.
Keep your eyes and ears open as there’s so much more to come. n
Words by Dorn Simon
Pics by Damien Smullen Photography
Dead Memories no longer a distant memory for homecoming gig
Local Metal scene fans were graced once more as Slammasters Dead Memories were back in town for a homecoming gig, courtesy of Outrage Entertainment, on Saturday 24th January at The Athenaeum in Enniscorthy.
The latest line-up consists:
Kris Butcher - Vocals
Tim Browner - Guitar
Scott Waldock - Bass
Daniel Waldock - Left Guitar
Kian Havey - Drums
The band have been busy with releases including their metal death growling version of “Jingle Bells” and gigging nationwide for the best part of 2025, hitting Terrorfest in Drogheda’s Watchtower in McHughs, Fibbers in Dublin, and more, quite relentlessly.
They have been shortlisted for this year's Metal Battle 2026 whereby they play Fibbers on April 18th to battle their way to a possible slot on the line-up of the famous “Wacken On Air” Metal Festival in Wacken, Germany later in the year.
Accompanying their stage set on the 24th January were a few special guests; we saw the not so elusive to Instagram fans, Evan Cloke aka @feel_evoked (Evoke, Echidnic Body), Tomas Hynes (Adversary, No Hassle) and Kyle O’Leary (Equinox).
Kris Butcher (vocals) has grown in stage presence, vocal power, as well as longer hair, it becomes harder and harder not to see a Chris Cornell resemblance, a powerhouse voice in tow.
However, he is no stranger to handing the mic over, whether to Tomas, Kyle, or in Saturday's case also to fellow band member and guitarist Tim Browner with whom Kris took over on guitar whilst Tim on vocals.
The crowd went wild circling the pit and moshing to their hearts’ content, clearly in their element in the new venue, which is fast becoming a huge success.
The setlist included favourites such as: Break
Slamscorthy
Memories Fade and
My Last Breath Intro Night Terror Give Up
Unsilent Death Mainstream Pussies F.O.F
Tobonika
Beat The Fuck Counting Worms
With their ferocious and fun energy, Dead Memories are a delight to watch, know and support. Catch and vote for them at Fibbers, Dublin, April 18th, let’s get our lads to Germany! n
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PHOTOGRAPHER PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Ballaghkeen Senior Citizens
left: Peg Nolan, Bernie Kehoe and Peggy Breen. Above right: Margaret and Sean Fenlon. Right: Elisabeth J Ryan and Liz Ryan. Below: Imelda McCarthy, Bernie Brottan and Shirley Colliton. Below right: John and Kathleen McGannon. Bottom left: Patricia Draper and Mary Kavanagh Gahan. Bottom centre: Nuala Cruise and Susan Davis. Bottom right: Joan Byrne and Michael Livingstone n
Ballaghkeen Senior Citizens Christmas Party in Ballaghkeen Community Centre, 18th January 2026.
Above
Enniscorthy film premieres in India
Leslie on the successful premiere of his new short film Kathleen which was recently shown in his home state of Kerala, India. Dr George was delighted with the response and feedback he received and with the opportunity his film presented to celebrate where he now resides.
The film explores solitude during old age, beautifully captured by the film’s director of photography Michael Benson.
Filmed in Enniscorthy, the production combines local creative talent and members of the Irish-Indian community, and showcases Co. Wexford’s traditional houses, landscapes, and folklore. n
Enniscorthy’s Book Club
One of the many local clubs always open and welcoming to new members is the Enniscorthy Book Club which has been up and running now for a few years.
The members love to hear about different opinions and perspectives so why not pop in to the next meeting on 26th February at Rackards pub in Enniscorthy at 8pm. The book under discussion will be Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver.
The members look forward to your company. n
Second from left: Dr George at the film premiere in Kerala state, India.
‘Superstar’ tickets selling fast!
Ticket sales are flying for Wexford Light Opera Society’s production of Jesus Christ Superstar – the iconic rock opera which is coming to the National Opera House stage from 27 April – 2 May 2026.
Our advice is – don’t wait, don’t hesitate. Grab your tickets NOW before they’re gone!
Link for tickets: https://www.nationaloperahouse.ie/whats-on/wexford-light-operasociety-presents
The exciting cast is:
Jesus – Aidan Byrne
Judas Iscariot – Thomas Furlong
Mary Magdalene – Niamh Cullen
Pontius Pilate – Tony Carty
King Herod – Stephen Byrne
Peter – Jonathan Kelly
Simon Zealotes – Joshua Higginbotham
Caiaphas – Seamus McManus
Annas – Eric Hayes
High Priests: Keith Flanagan, Michael O’Gorman, Alan Hearne.
Soul Girls: Holly Rossiter, Catherine Devereux, Amy Lindsay. n
Wexford Light Opera raises over €5,000 for local charities
The talented performers of the Wexford Light Opera Society, following a very successful and positive few weeks of carol singing over the busy Christmas season, raised a staggering €5,000 for local charities including:
• Wexford Meals on Wheels
• Our Lady of Fatima Special School
• Aoibheann's Pink Tie (Children's Cancer Charity)
The society first started carol singing for local charities way back in the 1970s with Fr. John O’Brien at the helm and thanks to the dedication and commitment of many members and friends of the Society they are helping to continue this proud tradition.
The carol-singing cheque presentation took place during 'Jesus Christ Superstar' rehearsals on 29th January – see photo below.
The Society’s next event is the annual Table Quiz which takes place at Wexford Boat and Tennis Club, Redmond Road, on Friday 13th February at 8pm. All are welcome to attend and it’s always a great night’s entertainment, a table of 4 people is €40, and there will be some great prizes on the night.
Wexford Light Opera Society proudly presents 'Jesus Christ Superstar' at the National Opera House, Wexford, from Monday 27 April to Saturday 2 May 2026.
'Jesus Christ Superstar' explores timeless themes of faith, fame, loyalty, and sacrifice, delivering an electrifying night of theatre that will move and inspire audiences from start to finish, so don’t miss your chance to experience one of the most iconic musicals ever written, presented by the award-winning Wexford Light Opera Society – a week of passion, power, and unforgettable music awaits.
Tickets on sale now at the National Opera House Box Office: Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30-17:00. By telephone: 053 9122144. Online: www.nationaloperahouse.ie n
Supporting sustainability
The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, on 26th January was the place to be to have some fun while swapping clothes for something new to you – a great way to get a revamped wardrobe in a more sustainable way, helping to support a circular economy, minimise landfill, and fight climate change.
Organised and supported by The Upcycle Movement, Bee Grayceful Upcycles, Sustainable Enniscorthy, and Wexford Co. Council, and with upcycling experts and in-house stylists on site, the event proved to be a big success.
The organisers plan to hold further similar events in the future as they believe events such as these can have big and positive environmental impacts. n
Wexford showing for Trans-led films
Wexford Pride is excited to partner with TITE (Trans Image/Trans Experience) Film Festival to bring an exciting programme of six trans-led short films to Wexford Arts Centre on Friday 13th February.
TITE (trans image/trans experience) is Ireland’s first festival of trans and non-binary cinema. Through screenings of short and feature films from Ireland and the international trans filmmaking community, TITE aims to shift the focus of trans film from representation to craft, championing trans and non-binary filmmakers and fostering lasting connections between artists and audiences.
In 2024, Wexford Pride held its first ‘Pride on Screen’ event ‘Queer Voices, New Stories’ bringing together LGBTQIA+ filmmakers to explore new narratives addressing LGBTQIA+ identity and experiences from LGBTQIA+ life in rural Ireland, to the power and importance of community spaces, and the politics of belonging when negotiating society through multiple marginalised lens. Bringing TITE’s programme of trans-led short films to the South East is a next step in celebrating trans, non-binary and gender non-conforming film-makers across genres through an eclectic programme of short-films.
The programme features six compelling short films, including the romantic awkwardness of Night Glances, the stop-motion charm of Colour Me Pink (2024, dir. Anika O’Hagan-Ploug), and the pandemicera intimacy of Dirty Talk (2024, dir. Eva Wyse). The lineup boldly ventures into satire with Daisy: Prophet of the Apocalypse (2023, dir. Venus Patel), psychological tension with Terratoma (2024, dir. Liadán Roche) and a charged, confrontational encounter in Glory, Hole (2024, dir. Hiram Harrington). Together, these works showcase the vital diversity and creative power of contemporary trans-led cinema.
Rían Browne (he/him, Wexford Pride Committee Member) says: ‘Throughout film and cultural history, trans and queer narratives have too often been shaped by and reduced to caricatures, shock value, or comedic punchlines. These enduring stereotypes have profound real-world con-
sequences, fueling social stigma and discrimination toward trans and gender nonconfirming people. The current small but vocal efforts to curtail trans people’s rights today is a direct echo of that harmful legacy.
‘Authentic representation requires trans creativity both in front of and behind the
About Wexford Pride
camera. It is vital to support spaces that foster queer creativity, elevate trans voices, and champion community-driven storytelling.’
Tickets are €13 available via wexfordartscentre.ie. If cost is a barrier to attending please reach out to Wexford Pride directly via info@wexfordpride.ie n
Wexford Pride is a voluntary community organisation led by and for the LGBTQIA+ community in Co. Wexford. It works to empower, celebrate and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community and its diverse experiences, identities and cultures. Wexford Pride runs a calendar of social events, peer support spaces and community groups that respond to the needs and interests of LGBTQIA+ people in the county in addition to engaging in efforts in solidarity with community members and allies to support the realisation of social justice and equality on a local and national level.
Enquiries can be forwarded to info@wexfordpride.ie. Connect via social media: @WexfordPride on Facebook and Instagram. n
Enniscorthy Musical Society’s cabaret night
Enniscorthy Musical Society (EMS) is thrilled to announce its next fundraiser is a Night at the Cabaret!
Date: Thursday, 19th February.
Time: Doors 7.30pm, starting at 8pm.
Venue: Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club.
Join EMS for an evening of classics songs, performed by past and present EMS members!
Get your tickets here: https://ie.powertik.com/events/cabaret-enniscorthy
This is a fundraising event to allow EMS put on the spectacular musical Chess, which will run from 8-11th April in Coláiste Bríde, Enniscorthy.
We’ll have more details and ticket information in our March online magazine. n
Oylegate Vintage Club donation
Oylegate Vintage Club ‘Light up the Night’ cheque presentation on 29th January to Pieta for €15,036.73.
Picture shows Harry Cosgrave, Chairman, passing over cheque to Sinead Ronan Wells of Pieta, surrounded by members of the club.
Gorey poet’s healing path
One of the most arresting qualities of Regina
poetry is its honesty, as her poems work through her suffering offering a path towards recovery. This collection, as with Buried Deep is the Child, has a therapeutic purpose, and is a deliberate act of reclaiming her life, identity and voice. Her combination of visual art and verse amplifies her themes, her paintings complementing the words, helping the reader, not just to read about but to feel the journey.
This book includes 7 audio poems read by the author Cover Photograph: S.L. Sanby
€15 Boland Press
Regina Redmond from Gorey is following up the publication of her first book of poetry Buried Deep is the Child with Warrior Woman Truth Teller due to be published, as we go to press, on February 5th, 2026, at Gorey Library.
The book is to be officially launched at the event by Colm O’Gorman, founder of One in Four and former executive director of Amnesty International Ireland, and the event hosted by Hot Press writer Jackie Hayden who lives in the south of the county. Jackie will introduce a number of guests who will recite a selection of poems from Warrior Woman Truth Teller. Confirmed are Regina Redmond herself, her daughter Orla, Clare Williams (Manager, Wexford Rape Crisis Centre), poet and filmmaker Odhran Somers, Carol Boland of Boland Press, and close friend and confidante Anita Carroll. Music will be provided by Aileen Mythen (former singer with the acclaimed Remedy Club) and Ian Doyle (highly-regarded singer-songwriter who recently performed as The Man Whom).
Several poems from Warrior Woman Truth Teller have already been recorded by Regina as part of a separate project, with atmospheric music added by local musicians.
Regina has also expanded her artistic activities to take in painting, and some of her visual works are included in Warrior Woman Truth Teller.
Since publishing Buried Deep is the Child, subtitled A Healing Journey, Regina has spoken about the healing power of writing in several venues, including Gorey Library and The Solas Cabin outside Arklow.
As she herself explains, “Buried Deep is the Child was subtitled A Healing Journey, and the title reflects how my writing
War Warrior Woman rior Truth Teller
Regina Redmond
has helped me deal with trauma suffered during my childhood. Warrior Woman Truth Teller shows me having become stronger and much more confident about facing my future. I think of my poems as shedding light on the path I’ve taken, from deep darkness into the full light of recovery. Writing has a therapeutic value for me and publishing them has been enormously liberating. I have also recorded some of these poems for the BandCamp and YouTube platforms, and, since the healing power of music has long been established, adding music is a logical and valuable step for me as I continue onward on my exploratory journey with Warrior Woman Truth Teller.”
News of Regina’s powerful writing has travelled as far as Mobile, Alabama, 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, “I never dreamed that my poems would attract such international interest and such an encouragingly positive response. It’s been a hugely worthwhile and rewarding adventure for me beyond any dreams I might have had. I have finally redeemed the strength that was stolen from me.”
Warrior Woman Truth Teller is published by Carol Boland of Boland Press and, like Buried Deep is the Child, is expected to resonate deeply with those who love poetry that comes straight from the heart. Her work has also attracted a very positive and appreciative response from others who have suffered childhood trauma. n
Regina Redmond Warrior Woman
Truth Teller
Boland Press
Regina Redmond lives in Co. Wexford. Warrior WomanTruth Teller, is her second book of poetry and paintings, following Buried Deep is the Child. Her poems have appeared in various online publications, in the press, and on radio.
Remond’s
Fashion show par excellence Words & pics by Maria Nolan
Once again Coláiste Bríde teacher Margo Whelan and her team of organisers, TY Students, and TY teachers brought to the Enniscorthy stage an extravaganza of fabulous fashion showcasing the stunning outfits and headpieces that can be created using only recyclable material and once again the event was a wow!
I have been attending Coláiste Bríde Junk Kouture now for the past 10/12 years, it’s a given on my New Year Calendar, an occasion not to be missed, and it just keeps getting better and better.
And it isn’t simply the outfits that are outstanding – it’s the performances and the team work and the exuberance of these wonderfully talented young women of the future.
They are poised, confident, relaxed, smiling, friendly, polite, eager to talk and smile even in the throes of preparation, wonderful ambassadors for their school and the town.
They are dancers, singers, designers, creators, problem solvers, colleagues and friends, and each year they give us, the audience, the most excellent night of entertainment, quality, and brilliance.
Using items as bizarre as crisp packages, tree branches, pampas grass, orange skins, medical tubes, fruit punnets, pistachio shells, seed bags, footballs, hurling grips, cat food pouches, antigen tests, syringe rubbers, discarded tea bags, recycled seat belts, fishing nets, operating gowns, coat hangers, and old pipe cleaners, these imaginative TY students have created inspired works of art that could adorn any fashion catwalk.
What an event it is and what an outlet for amazing talent and creativity including the interval entertainment by Wexford Academy of Irish Dance and astounding vocalists Roisin Morrissey and Hollie Cloke.
But don’t take my word for it – have a look for yourselves – these two pages contain photos, captured on the night, of some of the wonderful outfits showcased. n
The judges: Charlene Breen, Kayla Brambley, and Laura Mullett.
Far left: Masquerade Madness – winner of the Judges Choice Award, L-R: Kate Sunderland, Anna Foley, and Daisy Howe.
Left: Tina Stafford –Lock Down Legacy, winner of the Students Choice Award, and Ellie Kehoe –Caution Couture –winner of the Finishing Touches Award.
Right: Aoibhe Jordan in Seoid Na Farraige.
Copper Empire – Ellen Dunne – winner of the Expertly Crafted Award.
Leoni Meister in Celestial Mind.
Mothers and daughters Orla Foley, Kate Sunderland, Anna Foley, Daisy Howe, Jacqui Mitchell, Sue Sunderland.
Blazing Beauty – Caoimhe Murphy and Petals of Hope – Ava Lily DiFiore.
Blazing Beauty – Caoimhe Murphy –winner of the Glamour Award.
Grace Boland in Lily Legacy.
The Orchard’s Core – Nicole Doigilivich.
Lady and the Lamp – Roisin Morrissey, and Holly Rigley –Class A Team work winners.
Enniscorthy Retirement Association
The Enniscorthy Retirement Association holds monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of every month at 2.30pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, The Promenade, Enniscorthy, with the exception of January and August.
There are regular outings, as well as various activities every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
For further details about Enniscorthy Retirement Association go along to any monthly meeting or see ‘Enniscorthy Retirement Association’ on Facebook or email: enniscorthtyretirementassociation@outlook.com
Check out the website: www.enniscorthyretirement.net n
LOCAL ARTS CENTRES
Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764. Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000. Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely: 0402-38529.
What’s on in Wexford
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WexfordEvents for the best listing of what’s happening all over Co. Wexford. n
Winter classes at the Presentation Arts Centre
Check out the great classes taking place at The Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy: https://www.presentationcentre.ie/classes.html
7-9PM EVERY MONDAY NIGHT
A new Enniscorthy men’s choir meets up at 7pm every Monday night at Templeshannon Community Centre.
Called Voices of Harmony, the new group is currently looking for new members. With the new year starting, now is a great time to commence a new pastime. If you like to sing why not go along to and join in any Monday.
NO AUDITIONS REQUIRED, JUST SHOW UP AND SING ALONG WITH THE GROUP.
New members are always welcome!
For more info Call Seamus on 087 2930510.
In addition, the Templars Singing Group meets up every Thursday morning at 10.30am at Templeshannon Community Centre. For more information, phone 053 9237511. n
10.30am
FDYS Apollo Group
FDYS Enniscorthy has started an exciting new group. If you are aged 18 -25 and are unemployed and out of education this is a group for you. For more information please see accompanying poster. n
Disability Information & Fun Day
A Disability Information & Fun Day will be held at the Astro Active Centre in Enniscorthy on April 18th 2026 from 1pm–5.30pm to help raise funds for My Canine Companion, which provides service dogs through a puppy training programme for families and schools across the country.
The local organiser tells us, “I am very lucky to have received my puppy in training in 2024. She has been a huge asset for three of my kids who are autistic and for our family as a whole. I am also holding this day in memory of my beautiful sister Sinéad who attended Reachability Day Services for many, many years. Sinéad sadly passed away in April 2023. We hope this event will be an inclusive day for all. If there are any groups, clubs, vendors, etc. who would like to book a table or sponsor a raffle prize we would be most appreciative. Contact us on: fundraiser2026@yahoo.com or on our Facebook page: Disability Information & Fun Day.” n
Oylegate show
in
Oylegate group
rehearsals for the forthcoming production of ‘Oklahoma’ which will performed in the Oylegate Community Centre.
THE RIP
Movie Reviews
by Kyle Walsh
It’s not often I get excited about a Netflix movie but this is one of those rare times that I actually felt different when it was announced that Netflix had teamed up with Ben Affleck and Matt Damon to do a cop genre movie directed by Joe Carnahan.
Carnahan directed a brilliant cop movie in the 90s called Narc, starring Ray Liotta, I advise anyone to watch that if ye have not already, you will not be disappointed. So I had high hopes considering who was behind and in front of the camera. Affleck and Damon produced this movie too. So, the other night I sat down to watch this crime thriller and I hoped it was not going to be another Netflix disappointment, as there has been way too much of those. I’m glad to report this film is a very sharp, very tense, tightly constructed movie and it’s a very good watch on a wet, miserable winter’s night in front of the fire.
The two leads play lieutenant Dane Dumars and Detective Sergeant J D Byrne. The two of them are tough, tired, bearded cops in the narcotics division of the Miami Police Department. In a pre-titled sequence a woman is killed. Is it a colleague, a friend, or a love interest to one of our leads? They suspect that the killer could be within the department. Are they right ? When lieutenant Dumars gets a tip off regarding a stash of drug money in a house thought to be owned by the cartel, he and his team investigate. When they get to the house they find the stash. Only thing is it is not just a little bit of a stash, its 20 million dollars.
This is where Carnahan’s script is nicely twisted and unpredictable. There are some lovely twists and turns that will keep you guessing all the way through the film. There are only a few members on the team, and with that kind of cash flow just lying around who do you trust. As a viewer, you just don’t know what way it’s going to end up. You don’t know who to trust either just like the characters in the film themselves. Just when you think you have it figured out you are gently let down. You can feel the paranoia looming everywhere. The tension is high. I was truly invested in this movie and found it hard to take my eyes away from it. I found myself asking questions throughout such as, are these cops really corrupt?
I really enjoyed the way this film was directed and the way the story all comes together and unfolds in front of the viewer. It’s the moral murkiness that makes this film so compelling.
When the pressure is on and the viewer sees how each character is behaving you can’t help but ask, who is the good guy? Who is the bad guy? Will everyone play this by the book? I really enjoyed the third act when everything is revealed. There is plenty of action with a nail-biting scene in the back of a police van. The tension between the characters in this scene is brilliant. This scene leads into a fight, chase, shootout that is absolutely bonkers and I loved it and I loved the way it was filmed. Strap yourself in. It was a pleasure to watch a movie that could have came from a 90s action movie catalogue from yesterday. They just don’t make good old-fashioned action cop movies like this anymore, so it was good to see this. It is a real throwback.
I felt Joe Carnahan did a excellent job directing this Netflix movie, his script was tight and built on tension and paranoia. The action scenes were really well executed and did not rely on lots of boring CGI. Good old solid filmmaking. The two leads were really on top form and the chemistry between them bounced off each other and made the film go to another level. This is one of the best Netflix movies made to date. Trust me you will not feel ripped off watching this intense action cop genre movie. Now Netflix keep this kind of standard up and stop feeding us garbage.
The Rip gets a solid 8/10 from me.
enniscorthy 'Thru’ the Lens: Youth Vibes from the 70’s
Below: How many can you name? It’s probably a class from the old Mercy Convent School.
Some photos in this series include people who have since passed to their eternal reward. We hope these photos will help bring back fond memories to their family members and friends.
Above: Tony Fagan, Mick Quigley, Fr. Tony Scallan, George Blackburn.
Above right: Miners – Dick Butler, Pat McGannon, Junior Hanley.
Right: Ger Mitchell, Phillip Maguire, Billy Morrissey, Marie Murphy, Ted Tierney and Pam Rossiter.
Johnstown Castle – explore more
Set within 120 acres of parkland, Johnstown Castle Estate includes 50 acres of woodlands, 22 acres of lakes, a 15-acre arboretum, and nine acres of native hay meadows, alongside a four-acre walled garden, sunken garden, and fully restored historic glasshouses. More than 5km of scenic pathways wind through the estate and along scenic lake walks, with 2.5km now fully wheelchair- and buggy-friendly, following the addition of 900 metres of new accessible paths.
As Johnstown Castle looks ahead to 2026, an expanded programme of events, continued investment, and enhanced accessibility across the estate offer compelling reasons for existing members to renew and for new members to join the Irish Heritage Trust.
Irish Heritage Trust membership provides unlimited year-round access not only to Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum and Gardens in Wexford, but also Fota House, Arboretum and Gardens in Cork, and Strokestown Park and the National Famine Museum in Roscommon, supporting the long-term care by the non-profit organisation of these nationally significant places.
The 2026 events calendar at Johnstown Castle is already filling up and includes the return of the popular Garden Fair, the Honey and Harvest Festival celebrating pollinators and biodiversity, Easter and Halloween family programmes, jazz performances in the demesne, and an expanded programme of science, nature, and STEM-focused activities for children and families.
The Irish Agricultural Museum is also undergoing its most significant redevelopment since opening in 1978, with a new exhibition and character-led trails opening in early February, ahead of school mid-term breaks. Further redevelopment work in the Museum will continue throughout the year, enhancing the visitor experience for a wide range of interests.
Since 2019, Johnstown Castle has been under the care of the Irish Heritage Trust, an independent non-profit organisation that has transformed the estate into a flagship visitor destination in the south east. Income from admissions, events and memberships supports conservation, biodiversity initiatives and public access across all Trust properties.
Accessibility remains a priority, with a new bike shelter, improved outdoor signage and interpretation, and a direct bus service to the estate. Johnstown Castle has also adopted the ‘JAM’ (Just a Minute) Card, with all staff trained to support visitors with neurodiversity, autism, and other hidden disabilities.
Matt Wheeler, Irish Heritage Trust General Manager of Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum and Gardens, said that “membership combines enjoyment with impact. Preserving historic places is complex, ongoing work, and that every member plays a direct role in safeguarding these landscapes for future generations. Irish Heritage Trust membership is about belonging to a community committed to heritage, sustainability and public benefit”.
Membership is available from €55 per person or €155 per family, and includes discounted and free events, guided tours, and a 20% discount for accompanying friends and family. Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum and Gardens is open year-round.
Further information on events and Irish Heritage Trust membership for 2026 is available at johnstowncastle.ie n
Irish Agricultural Museum at Johnstown Castle.
Talented Enniscorthy woman features on RTE’s ‘Nationwide’
Enniscorthy’s incredibly talented, multi-award-winning costume maker Barbara Guthrie recently featured on the RTE ‘Nationwide’ TV programme including coverage of her costume exhibition at Enniscorthy Castle.
If you missed seeing it then check it out from 11 minutes and 30 seconds on https://www.rte.ie/player/series/nationwide/SI0000001172?epguid=IH100 16303-26-0004
The piece also features Enniscorthy's Maria Nolan, Dick Donaghue, and other locals. n
Don’t forget about this wonderful facility in
Enniscorthy...
New Bunclody playground
The Bunclody Park committee is delighted to welcome everybody to the beautiful, newly designed and developed space. Over the years, the hard-working committee has evolved and grown, working together as a dedicated team to reach where it has today.
The committee extends sincere thanks to everyone involved in the creation and development of this amazing project. In particular, over the past year, under the leadership of Natasha Fitzgerald and Sara Halpin, there have been countless meetings with Carlow County Council, along with extensive work on design proofs, site visits, emails, and phone calls to bring this project to fruition.
Congrats also to fabulous committee members: Margo Halpin, Chloe Murphy, Bridget O’Leary, Ann Finn, Aoife O’Callaghan, Michael Fitzgerald and Ceira Sharpe. n
The current exhibition, “The Waters of Wexford – Goddesses, Pirates and Shipwrecks” has been extended into 2026. This amazing exhibition brings to light the life blood of our county – the waterways. Explore the folklore and the stories that have shown just how important the river Slaney was in its role as a highway of commerce and transportation. Learn more about the heritage of our riverside town and how it grew from the water, its history passed on through stories and tales of pirates and shipwrecks.
Enniscorthy Castle is open 7 days a week and always well worth a visit. www.enniscorthycastle.ie n
Eddie’s incredible year
Enniscorthy's Eddie Keogh has had an incredible 2025 topped off by his band Kingfishr's song Killeagh being officially declared the most-listened-to track in Ireland for 2025.
According to Journal.ie, Killeagh became not just the most-streamed song of the year, but the moststreamed song in any single year this decade under IRMA’s figures.
With nearly 27m streams, it surpassed hits like Noah Kahan’s Stick Season (2024, 26.5 million streams), The Weeknd’s Blinding Lights (2020, 20 million streams), and Miley Cyrus’ Flowers (2023, 19 million streams).
Kingfishr have a total of 7 tracks in the top 100 most-streamed songs this year, tied with countrysuperstar Zach Bryan for the most of any artist (who is no small name himself, having played Phoenix Park for several nights last year). n
RIVERSIDE PARK HOTEL, ENNISCORTHY, ENTERTAINMENT
LINEUP:
Mike Denver - Friday 6th February. Stars of Irish Country MusicSunday 15th February. Bingo Loco –Saturday, 21st February. Derek Ryan - Sunday 15th March. Taylor Fever – Sunday, 26th April
Tickets available from hotel reception. Overnight packages online at: www.riversideparkhotel.com/inhouse-events/ n
Gvozdene Kapije (The Iron Gates)
A solo exhibition by Barbara Knežević
Wexford Arts Centre
14th February – 20th March 2026
Opening Event: Saturday 14th February at 2pm
Curator Rayne Booth in conversation with Artist Barbara Knežević
Wexford Arts Centre is pleased to present Gvozdene Kapije (The Iron Gates), an exhibition of new sculpture and film work by Barbara Knežević. The exhibition will run in the lower and upper galleries from Saturday, 14th February, to Friday 20th March, 2026.
In Gvozdene Kapije / The Iron Gates, Knežević brings together film and sculpture to interpret the histories, stories, and materiality of a region in eastern Serbia known as Gvozdene Kapije (The Iron Gates): the deep gorge at Đerdap on the Danube River, bordering Serbia and Romania.
At the centre of the exhibition is a 48-minute single-channel film that focuses on a group of 10,000-year old sculptures uncovered at Lepenski Vir during preparatory works for the Iron Gates Dam, a major hydroelectric project completed in 1972 by the governments of the former Yugoslavia and Romania. The film traces this layered history through material and oral accounts of the region, channeled through five non-human narrators; material, infrastructural, animal, and geological actors who shape and inhabit the environment of the Iron Gates gorge.
Composed of original and archival footage, personal testimonies, interviews, staged imaginings and choreography, the film gathers pace and moves between fact and speculative fiction. Through montage, it retraces stories of displacement, migration, making, sculpture, and the natural world along the Danube.
Alongside the film, Knežević presents a series of large-scale
Exhibition by David Killeen documents 21 psychiatric hospitals across Ireland as part of First Fortnight. Official launch was on Saturday January 10th. The exhibition runs to February 21st.
Blackstairs Mountain Theatre return to the Enniscorthy stage in January and February with The Salvage Shop. Jan 30th, 31st and Feb 5th, 6th, 7th. Doors 7:30pm, tickets €18.
An evening of songs and stories dedicated to the late Nanci Griffith, March 28th, 8pm, tickets €25.
The Christy Moore Songbook will be performed by Irish folk singer-songwriter Gerry Tully on April 4th, 8pm, tickets €22.50. n
sculptures fabricated from industrial materials including welded chain, mesh, steel, in dialogue with more intimate domestic materials such as ceramics, fabric, stone, and wood. These works appear both as sculptural objects in the gallery and as ‘actors’ within the film itself, a form the artist describes as a ‘sculptural film’.
Knežević is an artist of Serbian, Polish, and Australian heritage living in Ireland and Gvozdene Kapije / The Iron Gates locates this diasporic lineage in her work for the first time. This work situates the artist’s family histories alongside the wider narratives of the Danube and the Balkans, where personal stories intersect with geological time, infrastructural transformation, and the long culture of making along the river.
The production of Gvozdene Kapije (The Iron Gates) was funded by the Arts Council through a Project Award, with additional commissioning support provided by Solstice Arts Centre and the National Sculpture Factory. Its presentation at Wexford Arts Centre is curated by Rayne Booth as part of a tour produced by Booth with funding provided by the Arts Council through the Touring of Work Scheme. The tour also includes Solstice Arts Centre, Sirius arts Centre and the Regional Cultural Centre.
Wexford Arts Centre is supported by the Arts Council and Wexford County Council. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
WEXFORD ARTS CENTRE, Cornmarket, Wexford. Tel: (053) 91 23764 www.wexfordartscentre.ie n
Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely
For a complete listing of upcoming music, drama, comedy, film, art, etc, see: https://www.courthousearts.ie/whats-on n
Awakening - A spring art exhibition to inspire.
In the beauty of the unfolding season it’s time to celebrate renewal and transformation, the triumph of new life, and the promise and possibilities ahead. Three women artists, Emma Phillips, Michelle O’Neill, and Jean Maskell reflect on the symbolism of the awakening of spring. From St Brigid’s connection to womanhood, creativity and the land, to the celebration of love at St Valentine’s day, it’s time to embrace life.
Each of the artists presents their own unique interpretation of what the great awakening of spring means to them.
Pastel artist Emma Phillips’ incredibly detailed bird portraits reflect the presence, resilience, and strength of these small creatures, whose song is often the first sign of life returning after winter. She feels that the wisdom within nature signals survival and hope all around us.
Michelle O’Neill, an artist whose career spans elite international sport and visual arts, embraces colour and form as expressions of empowerment and renewal. Moving beyond her usual style, these works explore energy, love, and self-discovery – a visual reflection of personal growth and new beginnings.
Interdisciplinary artist and writer Jean Maskell’s work combines mediums to creatively explore and develop stories of strength, survival, and transformation. By merging the human journey and the natural world using art, ceramics, poetry, and artisan printing her message is one of positivity and hope.
Well known singer, actress, and presenter Sharon Clancy, who will officially open the exhibition, is also an avid art-lover. Sharon said: “I’m so pleased to be opening the exhibition as I’ve been following these three amazing artists for some time, and am really looking forward to seeing their interpretation of this inspiring time of year.”
All three artists invite you to embrace this very special season of hope and renewal. Work will be on display from 5th to 28th February at the Pigyard Gallery. Sharon Clancy will officially open the exhibition on St Valentine’s Day, so go along at 2:00pm on Saturday 14th February to meet the artists, along with Sharon, and celebrate “Awakening”.
“Awakening” is at The Pigyard Gallery from 5th to 28th February at Spectrum Art & Framing, 13 Selskar Street, Townparks, Wexford, Y35 XV80. Tel: 053 912 2019.
The exhibition is open Monday-Thursday 9:30am to 5:30pm, and Friday and Saturday 9:30am to 6:00pm. n
Keeping them in or keeping us out
Words & pics by Maria Nolan
The Walls of Containment photographic exhibition running to 21st February at the Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, is the work of photographer David Killeen, who was commissioned by author Patrick Quinlan to depict photographs of the twenty-one splendid buildings constructed during the Victorian era around Ireland as asylums for the mentally insane.
Having viewed the poignant exhibition including a shot of our own St. Senan’s Hospital, I was encouraged to attend the Panel Discussion on Walls of Containment where author and photographer were joined by Dervla McManus, Researcher in the School of Philosophy at UCD, and GKMP Architects Michael Pike and Grace Keeley who are currently working at redeveloping St. Senan’s Hospital here in Enniscorthy.
The lively, well-attended discussion, facilitated by Presentation Curator Lisa Byrne, clarified for me a lot of myths surrounding these fascinating buildings including the reply to my question to the panel as to whether there was any truth in the ageold Enniscorthy story that the plans for an army barracks in India and our mental institution had somehow gotten mixed up, thus providing Enniscorthy with one of the most ornate and elaborate buildings in the country.
Author Patrick Quinlan assured me that in his research he had found no evidence to support the tale adding that these institutions built between 1814 and 1922 were built with the very best of British Victorian intentions and many, both here in Ireland and in Britain, were architecturally pleasing and remain structurally sound to the present day, this being borne out by GKMP architect Michael Pike, who said that they had found St. Senan’s constructed in 1868 still in very good condition.
A large number of the institutions had big windows, high ceilings, expansive rooms and grounds similar to those of country estates of the time as the Victorians believed space, fresh air, beautiful views and exercise were essential to good mental and physical health and the walls built around many of them were not simply
walls of containment to keep those suffering with mental illness locked away from the outside world, they were also walls of protection, to keep those inside away from the slurs and taunts and unkindness and intolerance of those who didn’t understand them.
Of course as time went on some of the buildings became run down and there was never enough money to pump into them or indeed into mental health and after the Civil War in particular they became used by many for their own avarice ends with family members being committed for land and property gain and women who didn’t conform to what society demanded of them often found themselves buried behind the walls of containment by intoler-
ant fathers and husbands.
Walls are so intrinsic to this whole debate –keeping them in, keeping us out, and keeping all the secrets that are part of our Irish heritage.
It was uplifting to hear that some of these buildings are being put to other uses today rather than being razed to the ground, buried and forgotten about like so many of the poor unfortunates who lived within.
Huge congratulations to author and photographer and The Presentation Arts Centre for opening up and exploring conversations that still need to happen.
Walls of Containment is part of the First Fortnight Project. n
Photographer David Killeen
ooted in exford
February can feel like a quiet month in the garden, but it is actually a time when the season quietly begins to stir. The soil is still cold, and growth outside is slow, yet there is plenty you can do to get ahead. It is a month for thinking, planning, and starting small projects that will pay off later in the year.
One of my favourite jobs in February is planting bare root strawberries. There is something incredibly satisfying about planting what looks like a bare stick and knowing it will transform into a productive, fruiting plant. Choose a sunny spot with good drainage, whether in the ground, a raised bed, or a container. Soak the roots in water for around half an hour before planting to wake them up, and make sure the crown sits just at soil level. Space the plants about thirty centimetres apart and water them in well. They won’t grow much at first, but once spring warms the soil, they
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.
take off, and you’ll be rewarded with a summer full of juicy berries.
February is also the perfect time to start sowing seeds indoors. You do not need a fancy greenhouse; a bright, sunny windowsill works for many crops. I usually start peppers and cucumbers now. Peppers enjoy warmth and light, while cucumbers thrive with a bit of humidity. Even a small indoor setup will give them a strong start, and by the time they move outside, they are well-established. Regular watering and light attention will keep seedlings healthy, and watching them grow is one of the small joys of early gardening.
Heirloom tomatoes are my absolute favourite to grow. I love the variety of colours, shapes, and sizes they bring to the garden. From small, cherry-like fruits to large, ribbed tomatoes full of sweetness, heirlooms are rich in flavour and history. They are a little less predict-
able than hybrids, but that unpredictability is part of the fun. Growing heirloom tomatoes from seed now under glass or on a bright windowsill gives them a strong start and ensures you have healthy plants for planting out later in spring. I like to experiment with different varieties each year, testing new shapes, colours, and flavours alongside tried-and-true favourites.
February is also a good month to think about planning your garden layout for the year ahead. Which crops will go where? Which beds receive the most sun? Did anything overcrowd or struggle last year? Even a rough sketch helps prevent mistakes and allows you to plan for the best use of space. If you do not yet have a garden, a simple raised bed from reclaimed timber or pallets can be built in an afternoon. Fill it with good compost, place it in a sunny spot, and you already have space for strawberries, tomatoes, or a few pepper plants.
Containers on a patio or balcony work equally well and are surprisingly productive.
This month is not about rushing. It is about observation and preparation, making small, thoughtful choices that set you up for success. A few strawberry plants, a tray of seedlings, and a simple plan on paper are the beginnings of the season ahead. Pay attention to light, water, and positioning indoors, and you will give your heirloom tomatoes and other plants a head start that will carry through the summer.
If you would like to follow my own garden progress or share your experiences, you can find me on Instagram at @rootedinwexford. February might feel quiet, but with careful preparation and attention, it is one of the most rewarding months of the gardening year. n
Lots on at the Allotments
We are grateful as always to Gillian O’Neill, Secretary at Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA), for keeping us updated with all the news and photos from this multi-award-winning facility in Enniscorthy...
We are busy here in the allotments with registrations for the year ahead. We are full to capacity again this year, however if you are interested and would like to be added to the waiting list don’t hesitate to email: enniscorthyallotments@gmail.com.
We are absolutely delighted to have Templeshannon Community & Childcare (TCCC) and Daphne View Childcare as part of the allotment community this year.
Jenna from TCCC shared the following with us, “At Templeshannon Childcare Centre we’re delighted to share that the children have begun visiting the allotments, and the excitement has been wonderful to see. They are learning all about how plants grow and exploring the full journey from plant to plate through hands-on experiences. We are looking forward to watching seeds sprout and hopefully seeing lots of delicious things growing in the future.”
It is just amazing to see the kids getting
the opportunity to be involved in the allotments from such a young age learning skills for life in a very therapeutic, relaxing, fun environment.
We are currently in the process of applying again for the Reach funding with WWETB, if successful it will allow us to hold free workshops here in the allotments again this year.
Mindfulness classes with the fabulous Hilary Connor are a popular choice here at the Enniscorthy Community Allotments, offering a gentle opportunity to slow down and reconnect in a natural setting. These sessions invite participants to practise mindfulness through simple aware-
ness, breathing, and reflection, supported by the restorative environment of the allotments. Practising mindfulness can help reduce stress, improve focus, and support overall wellbeing, while deepening our connection with nature and with each other. The classes are open, welcoming, and suitable for beginners, with no prior experience needed. Mindfulness can be woven easily into everyday life – including time spent gardening, walking, or simply pausing to notice the present moment. Keep an eye on our socials if you would be interested in taking part in any future workshops with Hilary here in the allotments.
Email enniscorthyallotments@gmail.com n
Mindfulness class at Enniscorthy Community Allotments.
Mindfulness class at Enniscorthy Community Allotments with Hilary Connor.
For February:
Spring is just around the corner so now is a good time to start planning your allotment, order seeds, bulbs, and plants to ensure you have everything you need.
Plan your layout with companion planting and crop rotation in mind. Certain plants benefit each other when grown together, such as basil and tomatoes or marigolds and beans.
Sow tomatoes and peppers indoors.
Prune apple and pear trees if you haven’t already done so.
Take some time to clean and sharpen your gardening tools. Well maintained tools make gardening tasks more efficient and help prevent the spread of diseases.
Continue to provide food and water for birds. n
ECA
Gardening Tips...
Tried-Tested-Tasted by Caitriona
FLUFFY PANCAKES (SERVES 2–3)
200g plain flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
2 large eggs
250ml milk
2 tbsp melted butter (or oil)
1 tsp vanilla (optional but lovely)
Mix dry stuff: In a bowl whisk flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
Mix wet stuff: In another bowl whisk eggs, milk, melted butter and vanilla.
Combine – gently! Pour wet into dry and stir until just combined. Lumps are fine. Overmixing = flat pancakes.
Rest the batter (5–10 mins). This helps them puff up nicely.
Cook:
Heat a pan over medium–low. Lightly butter or oil it.
Pour about ¼ cup batter per pancake.
Flip at the right time: When bubbles form and edges look set (about 2-3 mins), flip and cook another 1-2 mins. n
Caitriona Barron
New chef at the helm
The talented David O’Keeffe has been unveiled as the new chef in the kitchen at The Village at Wheelocks, Finchogue, Enniscorthy.
With Cyril’s passion and David’s creativity it’s a sure-fire winning combination.
We wish the genial partnership every success. n
Learn to grow your own herbs and salads
Discover how to grow your own delicious herbs and salads in a relaxed and friendly setting at Bunclody FET Centre, Ryland Road.
Perfect for beginners, join in and grow something great.
See details in accompanying graphic. n
New flour mill
Ireland’s first new flour mill in over half a century will commence construction at Ballycarney, Enniscorthy, this year according to Andrew Kavanagh of Ballycarney Grain, and he wants Irish farmers to supply the new mill with milling wheat. Read more about it here:
https://www.farmersjournal.ie/tillage/news/newflour-mill-will-want-irish-wheat-899775 n
Taoiseach Micheál Martin with MinisterJames Browne TD and GreenTechHQ CEO Ian Mernagh at the GreenTechHQ Food Studio at Enniscorthy’s new Technology Park, showcasing some of the best of Wexford’s top quality food producers.
L-R: Proprietor Cyril Wheelock with new chef David O’Keeffe at The Village at Wheelocks. Pic: Enjoy Enniscorthy.
Two Enniscorthy food businesses bid farewell
Recent weeks have seen the closure of two notable food businesses in Enniscorthy town in addition to the severe damage done to some other food-related buisnesses during the recent floods.
The reasons for the permanent closure of Dusty Boy and Cooney’s Bakery & Shop were outlined on social media by their respective owners...
DUSTY BOY:
We have some news. After a lot of thought (and a lot of feeling), we’ve made the difficult decision to close Dusty Boy in Enniscorthy…
I’ve been writing this post for a ridiculous length of time and it’s still not easy… Enniscorthy, for us, was the beginning of an entirely new chapter in our lives that crept up (as all great things do) without us realising and then it grew an entire heartbeat of its own. It was never part of some big master plan, just a curveball out of nowhere to catch and run ferociously with because when the universe has other plans… that’s what you do.
Nearly 10 years ago, Dusty Boy started at our kitchen table as an art print business, and when our house filled up with boxes and work where every free space was FULL (full of excitement, potential, clutter, chaos) we needed somewhere that wasn’t our home – an office, a coffee machine ,and a bit of breathing space. But once the doors opened, people wanted more. They wanted to sit. They wanted to eat something delicious. They wanted somewhere to share conversations, to stay a while and soak up the feeling.
And just like that, the café was born.
For 3.5 years Enniscorthy held us. It gave us community, friendships, laughter, busy days, really really hard days, and memories that we’ll carry with us forever. The people, the staff, the regulars made it what it was, and we are so deeply grateful.
Then we opened Castlebridge. Castlebridge showed us what’s possible. The space to grow. The energy to dream bigger and the freedom to build something fuller, braver, and more alive than we ever imagined. And so to step into that future properly, it needs all of our focus, heart, and belief.
So with heavy hearts, but excited ones too, we will be closing our Enniscorthy doors this coming Sunday January 18th This isn’t goodbye. You’ll find us in Castlebridge for the full Dusty Boy experience. In the meantime, we have this week to say farewell and we would LOVE to see you. Thank you so much for growing with us, believing in us, and being part of this chapter and the new chapter ahead.
– Kate + Justin, Dusty Boy
PS: Please note any vouchers purchased in Enniscorthy can be used in Castlebridge. n
COONEY’S BAKERY/ SHOP:
After much thought and deliberation we have decided to close our Bakery/ Shop on Church St, Enniscorthy, on Saturday 31st January.
Due to age and health reasons we have taken the difficult decision to step away from this part of our business. This was not an easy choice but the right one for us at this time.
Our Cafe on Rafter St will continue as normal and our homemade bread and some confectionery lines will be stocked there after the 31st January.
We want to acknowledge our wonderful staff both past and present and to thank them most sincerely for their fantastic contribution to our business. Through their bakery skills and dedication they made Cooney's Bakery a household name throughout Co. Wexford and beyond.
To our customers, thank you for your support, loyalty and kindness since we first opened here in February 1991.
It has truly been an honour to serve you.
Your smiles, conversations, and friendship have meant more to us than words can express.
Thank you for allowing us to be part of your lives and celebrations.
We will always cherish the memories made here in Church St.
Thank you all,
Mervyn & Cathy Cooney. n
Grant funding open for manufacturing & internationally traded services
The Local Enterprise Office Wexford is pleased to announce that grant funding is now open for eligible clients in the manufacturing sector or those operating in internationally traded services, where displacement in County Wexford is not an issue.
This support is designed to help businesses start, grow, and scale, with a focus on enterprises that demonstrate strong potential for commercial viability, job creation, and expansion into domestic or export markets. Priority is given to projects that can develop into long-term export-focused businesses.
If your business is based in County Wexford, employs fewer
than 50 people, and operates within the commercial sphere with clear growth potential, you may qualify for this funding opportunity.
https://www.localenterprise.ie/wexford/financialsupports/eligibility-criteria/ n
County Wexford Business Awards 2026 Officially Launched
Announcing the launch of the County Wexford Business Awards are L-R: Ed Murphy, President, County Wexford Chamber; Paula Roche, CEO, County Wexford Chamber; Micheál Mahon, Managing Director, MGM Partnership; and Ann O’Brien, Managing Director of lead sponsor Kent Stainless. MGM Partnership scooped both the Professional Services Provider of the Year Award and the Overall Business of the Year Award in 2025.
County Wexford Chamber is proud to announce the launch of the County Wexford Business Awards 2026, celebrating the innovation, resilience, and success of businesses across the county.
Firmly established as one of the most prestigious events in the local business calendar, the awards shine a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of enterprises large and small. With Wexford People as the official media partner, every milestone on this exciting journey will be shared with the community.
This year, 18 award categories are open for nominations, offering businesses from every sector the chance to showcase their excellence, innovation, and drive.
County Wexford Chamber CEO Paula Roche said: "These awards are more than a celebration – they are a catalyst for growth and innovation. By recognising success, we inspire others and strengthen the business community in County Wexford."
The Chamber anticipates a record number of entries in 2026, giving finalists and winners unparalleled exposure across print, digital, and social platforms.
"Being shortlisted or winning is a game-changer for any business," added Ms Roche. "It sets you apart from competitors, builds trust with customers, and boosts team morale. Beyond that, it enhances the reputation of County Wexford as a thriving hub for enterprise and investment."
A special thank you goes to all of the award sponsors, including Kent Stainless, lead sponsor of the County Wexford Business Awards 2026.
The closing date for entries is Friday, February 13th, with the Gala Awards Ceremony being held on Friday, May 22nd, at Whites of Wexford Hotel.
Businesses can submit their applications at www.countywexfordchamber.ie. For further details, contact County Wexford Chamber at 053 91 22226. n
LEO Wexford ranked in top 3 nationally
• 391 new jobs created in 2025
• 19% job increase from 2024
• 11th year of jobs growth
• Net employment gain of 246 in 2025
• 237 total small businesses employing 2,147 people supported by LEO Wexford
Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon TD, has announced the annual figures for the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) for 2025 which showed that Local Enterprise Office Wexford supported companies which created 391 new jobs in 2025, a net employment gain of 246. This figure was up significantly up from the 329 that were created by LEO Wexford in 2024.
The net jobs created by Local Enterprise Office Wexford supported clients in 2025 was 246, which takes into account companies that amalgamated, ceased trading, and those that transferred on to Enterprise Ireland.
The new figures show that LEO Wexford financially supported 237 small businesses in their portfolio across the county; these companies in turn employ 2,147 people.
The total national figures for the Local Enterprise Offices across the country were announced with the LEOs now financially supporting 40,285 jobs across 7,148 companies. This is the most significant number of jobs that the Local Enterprise Offices have supported nationally since their inception in 2014.
Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development, Wexford County Council.
In 2025 there were 7,261 new jobs created by LEO client companies nationally with a net jobs creation figure of 2,479. This was up 7% nationally on 2024. From the jobs created, 82% were outside of the Dublin region.
The LEOs also provide substantial funded supports to thousands of other small businesses across the country with programmes such as the Grow Digital Voucher, Lean for Business, and Green for Business along with training and mentoring.
An Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Joe O’Sullivan, commented, “These figures highlight the significant impact that the Local Enterprise Offices and their clients are making in driving economic growth across the country. The creation of 391 jobs is only a small part of the role that LEO is playing in fostering entrepreneurship and growing enterprise in towns, villages, and communities all over county Wexford.”
Chief Executive of Wexford County Council Eddie Taaffe said: ‘The continued success of Local Enterprise Office Wexford is reflected once again in these remarkable job-creation figures. In 2025, LEO supported businesses generated 391 new jobs across the county – a 19% increase year on year resulting in a net gain of 246 jobs. This performance places Wexford as the third-highest job creator among the 31 LEOs nationwide and second highest in terms of net job creation. These results are driven by the ambition and resilience of Wexford’s entrepreneurs, and we are proud to stand behind them as they innovate, expand, and create high-quality employment throughout the county.’
Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development, added: ‘These jobs created by our clients only reflect those who have received financial funding from their LEO and do not capture the thousands more that receive supports such as Lean, Green, and Digital supports or training and mentoring. These positive numbers are a strong reflection of the resilience of the small business sector and we look forward to supporting these businesses in 2026 and also helping new budding entrepreneurs to get started.’
The Local Enterprise Offices located in the local authorities and funded through Enterprise Ireland support thousands of small Irish businesses and entrepreneurs nationwide. Since their establishment in 2014 they have been the first-stop-shop for entrepreneurs and small businesses providing a range of supports including financial, mentoring, training, and sectorspecific expertise to help guide businesses at any stage of their development.
Key initiatives to foster entrepreneurship include Local Enterprise Week, National Women’s Enterprise Day, the Student Enterprise Programme, and the National Enterprise Awards. The Local Enterprise Offices are also running a campaign encouraging small businesses to save time, money, and energy by availing of their competitiveness and productivity supports including Green, Lean, and Digital for Business. See: www.AllinADaysWork.ie For more information on the Local Enterprise Offices go to www.LocalEnterprise.ie n
Enniscorthy entrepreneur’s big win
Enniscorthy Entrepreneur Wins Sustainability Champion Award at Business of Craft Awards 2026.
An Enniscorthy craft and design entrepreneur has taken home a national title at this year’s Business of Craft Awards, held during the prestigious Local Enterprise Showcase Exhibition at Showcase 2026 in the RDS.
Kate Doyle, founder of EcoKinly in Enniscorthy and client of the Local Enterprise Office Wexford, was crowned Sustainability Champion 2026, recognising her exceptional commitment to creating high-quality, reusable products that promote sustainable living for families across Ireland.
EcoKinly stood out among finalists from across the country for its innovative range of reusable nappies, wipes, period pads, and other thoughtfully designed essentials that help reduce household waste without compromising on comfort, convenience, or style.
Founded by Kate, a mother passionate about making sustainability accessible to everyone, EcoKinly focuses on practical solutions that support families at every stage of life. Each product is designed to be easy to use, gentle on skin, and durable enough to replace single-use alternatives. The brand is also committed to circular living and community impact through partnerships with Irish print designers, and initiatives to reduce period poverty.
Speaking after the awards ceremony, Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at Wexford County Council, said: “We are incredibly proud to see a Wexford business take home a national title at the Business of Craft Awards. Kate Doyle and EcoKinly is an outstanding example of innovation, sustainability, and purpose-driven business in action. This recognition places EcoKinly firmly on the radar of international buyers and highlights the strength of Wexford’s design and craft sector.”
EcoKinly was one of five Wexford businesses supported by LEO Wexford to feature their products at Showcase 2026, joining Caroline Bergin Art, Potter and Wick/Grainne Moore Pot-
tery, Sully and Juno, and Mavis Nest Cosmetics at the RDS for the three-day event. Showcase continues to be a significant platform for Local Enterprise Office clients, offering exposure to thousands of national and international buyers.
Kate Doyle’s win highlights the growing impact of sustainability-driven craft businesses and reinforces Wexford’s reputa-
tion for producing innovative, highquality, and purpose-led enterprises.
Showcase 2026, presented by Design & Crafts Council Ireland with support from Enterprise Ireland and the Local Enterprise Offices, remains one of the most important trade events in the global craft and design calendar, generating millions in sales for Irish businesses each year. n
L-R Annette Rowsome, Wexford Local Enterprise Office; Kate Doyle, Ecokinly; and Jill Kelleher, Wexford Local Enterprise Office.
Wexford Local Enterprise Office: County Wexford Chamber calendar:
High Performance Building Alliance
The Wexford Local Enterprise Office (LEO) was delighted to attend and present its supports at the High Performance Building Alliance’s Net Zero Construction Symposium in Wexford on 21st January, where experts from across construction, sustainability, skills, and innovation highlighted the need for a more coordinated national framework to link activity across materials, energy, skills, and modern methods of construction. The event also underscored the strong spirit of regional collaboration, with Wexford and the South East positioning themselves as leaders in high-performance, low-carbon building. n
Taoiseach visits Co. Wexford
Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD visited The Hatch Lab in Gorey, Wexford County Council’s flagship technology and innovation hub, on Friday 16th January 2026 as part of a programme of engagement with enterprise and business leaders in the county.
Welcomed by An Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr. Joe Sullivan, the Taoiseach had an opportunity to meet a number of companies currently operating from The Hatch Lab, including CSC Global, Qedon, and Activ.ie. During the visit, he also received a tour of the facility by the Manager of the Hatch Lab, John O’Connor.
An Cathaoirleach, speaking at the event, stated, “The Hatch Lab is part of Wexford County Council’s economic strategy to support an enterprise and innovation infrastructure within the county. Established in 2017 with significant investment from Wexford County Council, the facility was designed to support the growth of technology-led start-ups and scaling enterprises which is clearly evidenced in business such as Qedon and Activ.ie
With a vision “to establish an exciting, competitive, start-up business and co-working environment in the technology and innovation sector that fosters creativity, innovation and ambition in clients,” The Hatch Lab provides 8,500 square feet of modern workspace, including 52 hot desks, open-plan collaborative areas, and four private offices designed to support businesses as they scale and move towards independent premises. The Hatch Lab provides space to businesses under the remit of the Local Enterprise Office, Enterprise Ireland, and IDA Ireland.
The facility is currently fully occupied and is home to a diverse range of indigenous and international businesses. CSC Global (Ireland) Ltd, a financial services company, employs 25 staff in Gorey and occupies two nine-person offices. Other resident companies include Tetra Tech Environmental Solutions, GrandPad, Qedon, BoardX, Activ.ie, and Neurolabs, representing sectors such as fintech, environmental services, software, corporate training, and medical technology.
The Taoiseach then visited Enniscorthy Technology Park at Kilagoley, where he viewed plans for an advanced factory.
Wexford County Council has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with IDA Ireland to collaboratively develop a property solution for an advanced factory of 2,500 sq metres at Enniscorthy Technology Park. The design and planning of the advanced building solution were completed by Henry J. Lyons, Architects, with planning permission application lodged in December 2025. The first building in the Technology Park, Senan House, was delivered by a private investor and the building represents a milestone in Irish architecture and business. It stands as the first certified fully passive commercial building in Ireland.
Chief Executive of Wexford County Council Eddie Taaffe said, “The Taoiseach’s visit to Wexford was an opportunity to shine a spotlight on Wexford and how Wexford County Council supported projects such as the Hatch Lab has contributed significantly to job creation in Wexford.” He went on to say, “The signing of the MOU with IDA Ireland and the submission of the application for planning is a significant first step in progressing an advanced factory solution in Enniscorthy which will ultimately attract inward investment to the county.” n
Minister
Cathaoirleach
Enniscorthy Technology Park –L-R Breege Cosgrave, Liz Hore, Mary McEvoy,
James Browne, Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Cllr Barbara Anne Murphy,
Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cllr Aidan Browne, Eddie Taaffe.
County Wexford Chamber has joined the Thrive Initiative, pledging to make inclusion and accessibility part of everyday business in the South East.
The Thrive Initiative, developed by Inclusion By Design in partnership with Irish employers, empowers organisations to commit to better accessibility, inclusion, and equitable workplace practices.
Thrive isn’t about ticking boxes – it’s about providing real, person-centred supports for employers, existing employees, and potential employees alike, promoting respect, understanding, and success in every workplace.
Learn more: www.inclusionbydesign.ie n
Green for Business support
The Green for Business support is a free consultancy programme designed to help small businesses become more sustainable. Through up to two days of expert consultancy, businesses can work with a specialist Green Consultant who will identify practical, impactful changes tailored to your business.
Whether it’s cutting costs, improving efficiency, or enhancing your reputation, going green can give your business a competitive edge — while also benefiting the environment.
What’s in it for your business?
Lower operating costs
Better use of energy, water, and materials
Reduced carbon footprint
Enhanced brand image and customer appeal
Greater resilience to climate change.
Eligibility:
The Green for Business support is open to all enterprises with 1-50 employees except those involved in activities that the Local Enterprise Offices consider as ineligible for example primary agricultural businesses – farms or as involving an unacceptable reputational risk: gambling including ‘gaming’ (as defined in the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956), adult entertainment, tobacco products, and cannabis-based products which are not authorised as medicines).
The enterprise must be established, registered, and operate within the geographic
location of the Local Enterprise Office. The enterprise must operate in the commercial sphere.
Turnover is in excess of €30,000 annually. The business is trading in excess of 6 months. Companies forming part of a holding group, franchise, linked companies etc. are only permitted to make one application. Multiple applications will not be considered.
For more information, contact:
LOCAL ENTERPRISE OFFICE
Wexford County Council, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93
info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie
Contact: 053 9196020
Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie n
Reward with purpose. Shop local.
Looking for a meaningful way to say thank you to your team or clients? The County Wexford Shop Local Gift Card is the perfect choice.
Under Revenue’s Small Benefit Exemption Scheme, employers can reward employees with up to €1,500 per year, tax-free, using non-cash benefits like the County Wexford Shop Local Gift Card.
No PAYE, PRSI or USC applies. You can reward the €1,500 in any value combination. The County Wexford Shop Local Gift Card – which can be spent in 200 participating outlets – is a simple, meaningful way to say thank you that benefits your employees and County Wexford.
Say ‘Thank You’ to your staff today. Check out: https://corporate.townandcitygiftcards.ie/county-wexford-shop-local-gift-card/
It’s flexible, easy to use across Co. Wexford, ideal for staff rewards, incentives and corporate gifting. This card keeps it local – and keeps it thoughtful.
So celebrate the people who make your business great while supporting the businesses that make Co. Wexford thrive. n
For all County Wexford Chamber news: www.countywexfordchamber.ie and https://www.facebook.com/CountyWexfordChamber n
Simplify Your Business Journey with the National Enterprise Hub (NEH)!
Finding the right support to start or grow your business shouldn't be complicated. The National Enterprise Hub offers a streamlined solution, consolidating over 250 essential resources – from grants and funding to training and expert guidance –on to one intuitive website. Whatever your business stage, NEH provides the resources you need to thrive. Discover more at www.neh.gov.ie or contact NEH for tailored assistance and further details. Your business growth starts here! Proudly supported by the Government of Ireland. n
Dogs and Sheep
Every year in Co. Wexford there are many attacks on sheep by dogs, particularly around lambing time (November-May). Most dog attacks occur in the early hours of the morning. These attacks result in sheep and lambs dying from their injuries, lambs being aborted, and stock not thriving. Also such attacks result in serious financial losses for the farmer including such costs as veterinary fees, disposal of dead animals, and the loss in value of stock not thriving in the aftermath of attacks by dogs. Under the Control of Dogs Act 1986 (as amended), dog owners are required to keep their dogs licensed, tagged, and under control. This means making sure your dog is enclosed or securely tied at night. Any dog can be a killer around sheep. n
Dog waste –
Did you know, bagged dog waste can go in any public litter bin?
The wonderful Tidy Towns volunteers around the county are still finding bagged dog poo discarded in landscaped areas, in planters, left on top of walls, or just dropped on the footpaths. These groups are exasperated by this ongoing problem, saying, “There’s just no excuse!” because you don’t need to find a dedicated dog-waste bin, bagged dog waste can go in any public litter bin!
Leaving dog mess behind isn’t an option, so if the nearest dog bin is full or too far away, just use a general litter bin, or bring it home and dispose of it in your own household waste bin. n
It’s amazing over the years in veterinary you get so used to doing emergency calls or dealing with emergencies in the clinic such as horses with colic, cows calving, or dogs knocked down. You just get into action mode, assess what is wrong, and get working to help bring everything back to normal.
Last week I was on the other side of the coin as this time I was arriving to the clinic with my own dog after being knocked down by a car out on a farm. It was all a bit surreal as I saw the accident as it happened, then loading him into the jeep, ringing ahead to the clinic, and everyone was ready to go when we arrived. We got Mac onto a drip, assessed his vitals, and treated him for shock and pain. Over the course of the next few hours we just tried to stabilise him as the biggest risk initially is shock and possible internal bleeding. As he stabilised we xrayed him, and even though the car drove right over him, miraculously he didn’t have any broken bones.
with
Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
We treated him with acupuncture, homeopathy, drips, and pain meds, and slowly he started to pick up. He ate a little after about 12-15 hours and stood up and had a pee outside, remarkable for a dog who is going to be 17 later this year. The next day he was taking a bit of a stroll around the clinic and each day since he is slowly making progress.
Being on the receiving end and seeing how the whole team kicked into action it was lovely to see. My father often made the statement, ‘Good nursing is 90% of medication’ and this was certainly true for Mac. The team were so good to him and he has made a great recovery because of the loving care and attention to detail that he received. Mac has been our meet & greet person at the clinic for almost 17 years now so I’m happy to say he will be reporting for duty again in the not so distant future. I am very thankful to the entire team that helped him and me through a tough few days. Being on the other side gives you a new perspective of how it feels when an emergency happens.
Thanks again to all the team at the Moyne Vets. 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):
Renault is welcoming a new generation of icons to its line-up with the launch of the Renault 5 and the Renault 4. Both tap into Renault’s illustrious past in building iconic compact cars that were the staples of both European and Irish roads for decades. In fact from the 1960s, the classic Renault 4 was built in right hand drive for the Irish market at an assembly site on Trinity Street in Wexford.
The new Renault 5 made a huge splash when it launched in 2025, se-
CAROLINE GETS MOTORING RENAULT 4
Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings us reviews of the latest new cars to arrive in Ireland. Caroline is the founder and editor of the online automotive magazine Changing Lanes and a jury member for Irish Car of the Year.
Find out more about her editorial and commercial copywriting services at www.changinglanes.ie
curing the Irish Car of the Year title among many other awards, and now it’s the turn of the larger and arguably more useful Renault 4 remake. It offers buyers more space and practicality than the 5, but still with bundles of charm, retro-inspired looks and the choice of two battery sizes.
At just over four metres in length, the new Renault 4 sits between the Clio and Captur. Renault has given it plenty of character like the quirky headlights and grille, now surrounded by a thin line of LED light, chunky
bonnet with two vents like the original, squared-off wheel arches and three-segment rear lights.
Inside the Renault 4 is a brilliant mix of modern technology but also retro finishes like the upholsteries that do hark back to the 60’s original. Infotainment is looked after by a digital driver display and touchscreen that uses an excellent Google operating system on all but the entry level model.
There are a few quirks however. For a
Renault 4
start, the area around the steering wheel is quite crowded with levers and stalks, which does make it clumsy at times to use. There’s also no P option on the gear selector, which seems like a strange omission. The quality of the reversing camera is not great either.
The Iconic model is definitely worth the extra spend as it includes heated steering wheel and heated front seats. They all come with cruise control, parking camera, automatic climate control and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The mid-range Iconic adds things like the larger digital driver display, Google services, adaptive cruise control and wireless smartphone charging.
sumption would likely improve in warmer weather. 11kW AC charging is included as standard. DC fast charging is up to 100kW, which is quite standard for this size of car. It allows a 15–80% top-up in around 30 minutes. The 40kWh battery version reduces the DC charge rate to 80kW.
Though built on the same platform, the Renault 4 sits on a longer wheelbase than the Renault 5. There’s a much bigger boot of 420 litres that compares well to rivals like the Ford Puma and Peugeot 2008. It’s very practical with a wide opening and exceptionally low loading sill. There’s no spare wheel included but there is some underfloor storage and top spec models get a powered bootlid. The back seat feels less cramped than the Renault 5 but is still more suited to children than adults.
Entry-level Evolution models come with a 40kWh battery producing 120hp and around 300km of range. Techno and Iconic are available with a larger 52kWh battery that powers a 150hp electric motor and delivers up to 410km of driving range (WLTP), making it more useful overall.
The ride quality is excellent for a small car thanks to a multi-link rear suspension, while the sound insulation makes for an extremely quiet cabin. The handling is good, with the Renault 4 turning well into corners. However, there’s not a huge amount of feel to the steering so it’s not quite as fun to drive as a Mini Aceman or Ford Puma Gen-E. But it beats both for ride comfort.
Renault has also introduced paddles for the regenerative braking behind the steering wheel, which are very simple to use. On full strength, it turns into a one pedal drive mode. There are a few drive modes included also, but I found the Comfort mode met most of my needs.
Like most of its rivals, the real world range is more modest than what the WLTP figures might suggest. I was driving the larger 52kWh battery version, but the real-world range in cold winter weather was about 275 kilometres. This is a lot less than the WLTP figure for this battery (410km). Granted this did include some high speed motorway driving and con-
It also has vehicle to load capability so you can power other devices from the charge port using a special adaptor.
The range starts at €27,995 for the 40kWh battery in the entry level Evolution trim. Of more interest to Irish buyers will be the 52kWh battery that starts from €30,995 in the Evolution trim, from €32,995 in the Techno and from €34,995 for the Iconic like the model tested for this review.
The new Renault 4 takes the charm and character that made the Renault 5 such a hit, wraps it in a more practical and versatile package, and delivers a small crossover that’s already one of the best of its kind. It’s comfortable and refined with one of the nicest interiors in the segment and a boot that makes it far more usable than many of its rivals.
While real-world range in my experience falls short of the official figures, this is a familiar compromise among rivals like the Ford Puma Gen-E and the Mini Aceman. But as a small, urban crossover or maybe a second car for a family, the Renault 4 is an absolute delight and one of best small electric SUVs on sale. n
Sport Active’s new strategic plan
Wexford County Council is delighted to announce the launch of Sport Active Wexford’s Strategic Plan 2025 –2030, entitled “A Roadmap to Excellence and Innovation”.
This strategic plan represents the culmination of extensive research, collaboration, and dedication from the Sports Active Wexford’s team. It is not just a document; it is a commitment to excellence and innovation. It reflects the unwavering dedication to the mission and the determination of the team to make a positive impact in the community and beyond. Each section of this plan has been carefully crafted to address the challenges faced and to leverage the opportunities that lie ahead. This strategy is guided by a clear vision: to support people in Wexford to Start physical activity, Stay physically active, and Succeed in achieving their personal goals. The three strategic themes – Empowering Communities, Enabling Inclusion, and Supporting the Sport Sector.
“We are confident that with the collective efforts of our team, stakeholders, and partners, we will achieve the ambitious objectives set forth in this plan. Together, we will navigate the complexities of our environment, adapt to changes, and emerge stronger and more resilient”, stated Fran Ronan, Head of the Local Sports Partnership.
Cllr. Garry Laffan, Chairperson of Sports Active Wexford, welcomed everybody to the launch and stated, “Our Strategy is built on insights and learning gathered through our previous work and collaboration with our steering committee,
stakeholders, and partners. It outlines our approach to ensuring people in County Wexford can access opportunities to engage in physical activity at all levels. A great deal of change has occurred since our inception in 2008, reflecting shifts in national and local policy, the priorities of our key partners, and our growth in knowledge and understanding of how we can work and evolve as a partnership to support the people of County Wexford.”
The official launch took place on the 28th January in County Hall, Wexford County Council, by Cllr Garry Laffan, Chairperson of the Sports Active Wexford’s Steering Committee in the presence of Colleen Devine, Director of Participation with Sport Ireland, Eddie Taaffe, CE Wexford County Council, the Steering Committee, local Councillors,
District Managers, tutors and community partners.
Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council gave his full support to the strategy. “As Chief Executive, I am delighted to support the Sports Active Strategy 2025-2030, A Roadmap to Excellence and Innovation." The strong, mutually beneficial partnership between Wexford County Council and Sports Active Wexford enables the tailored delivery of opportunities for every resident of County Wexford to engage in sport or physical activity. This inclusive approach ensures that participation is possible for people of all ages, backgrounds, economic circumstances, and abilities.”
Dr. Una May, CE of Sport Ireland, was unfortunately unable to attend the launch due to a prior engagement, however she passed on her good wishes. n
Left: The Sports Active Wexford Team with Cllr Laffan.
Above: Some of Sports Active Wexford’s Steering Committee.
L-R: Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council; Mary Van Lieshout, Director Participation Ethics Integrity and Research, Sport Ireland; Fran Ronan, Lead of Local Sports Partnership; Cllr. Garry Laffan, Chairperson of Sports Active Wexford’s Steering Committee.
Bree Billiards & Snooker Club
20 players entered the recent Paddy Long Shield snooker tournament. It was run on a best of 3 frames knockout basis up to the final, which was best of 5.
Shane Dawson (+11) met Ger McVeigh (+17) in the final on January 20th. Shane won the 1st frame on the blue, and powered on to take the 2nd convincingly. With the pressure on, Ger steadied himself with a good break of 22, and went on to take the 3rd frame on the yellow. The 4th frame was evenly contested, with Shane potting a long blue followed by an easy pink to take the frame and match on a 3/1 scoreline.
Beaten semi-finalists were Cathal Comey (+13) and Jack Kinsella (+13). Highest break was claimed by Craig Kenny (-6), who compiled 27. The next tournament is a novel team-
based event, involving billiards and snooker, which will be run over the
Anne is European athlete of the year
Anne Gilshinan (Slaney Olympic) has been awarded the Master’s Female European Middle Distance Athlete of the Year for 2025, and it’s little surprise given her performances last year.
European Masters Championships (Madeira, Oct 2025):
Anne broke the European record in the W60 1500m and won gold in that event.
She also won gold in the 800m at the same championships.
World Masters Athletics Championships (2025):
Anne set a new masters world record in the W60 1500m, running 4:59.45 and taking gold – becoming the first woman over 60 to break 5 minutes in this distance.
Indoor Season:
At an indoor meet in Dublin, Anne set a new world record for the indoor mile in the 60+ category, clocking 5:27, shaving several seconds off the previous best. n
Congrats Ruadhan
Congratulations to Ruadhan Dwyer, appointed joint Captain of the Wexford minor footballers for the season ahead, a great honour and privilege for him, and to the delight of all at Enniscorthy’s Rapparees Starlights club. n
Ger McVeigh, John Bolger (Chairman), Shane Dawson, Cathal Comey
Over €300,000 for historic buildings
Minister James Browne TD has announced over €300,000 in restoration support for Wexford historic buildings.
€261,989 has been awarded to 13 projects to restore and protect built heritage in Wexford. And three thatched projects will receive €46,774 under the Historic Thatched Buildings scheme.
The scheme helps property owners to conserve and enhance historic buildings and streetscapes, while also helping to keep traditional building skills alive.
This year’s Built Heritage Investment Scheme grants will be used to repair, restore and protect historic structures, from traditional homes to landmark public buildings in our cities, towns and villages, and across the wider countryside. The scheme covers restoration work to historic buildings such as roof and wall repairs and works on windows and doors.
The funding is provided by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage’s National Built Heritage Service and is administered by the local authorities.
Announcing the funding, Minister Browne said, “This funding will ensure that the built heritage of towns, villages, and rural communities across Wexford, from Enniscorthy, Gorey and New Ross, to Wexford town, Taghmon and Kilmore is kept alive and protected.
“The preservation of Wexford’s built heritage relies on our taking action today and that is why my Department continues to make substantial funding available under this scheme.
“Along with new initiatives such as the improved and expanded Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, the Built Heritage Investment Scheme helps to secure our future by maximising use of existing building stock and making sure our historic buildings don’t fall into disrepair or vacancy. This grant scheme also supports traditional craftspeople, whose specialist skills turn history into homes, community hubs and businesses.”
The full list of projects can be found on the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage website.
Friends Meeting House, Enniscorthy.
In addition to the public funding provided under BHIS, an estimated €35 million of private funds will be committed to these projects by owners and custodians, further enhancing the investment in Ireland’s built heritage and representing an effective partnership between the State, individuals and communities around the country. n
Wexford Library and Archive Service publish four oral recordings on Digital Repository of Ireland
Wexford Library and Archive have uploaded four collections of oral recordings to Digital Repository of Ireland: County Wexford Oral History Project, Memories of 1916, Memories of World War 1, and Southend Maritime Heritage Oral History Project. These recordings are freely available for all to listen to or download from home or any remote location.
At the beginning of 2025, Wexford Library and Archive Service became a member of the Digital Repository of Ire-
land. The Digital Repository of Ireland (DRI) is a certified trustworthy digital repository that provides long-term preservation and access to Ireland’s social and cultural digital data.
Wexford Library and Archive Service links in with a growing number of local authority archives who have become members of DRI.
Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Joe Sullivan says, “I’m delighted that Wexford Library and Archive Service are making this resource available to the
1798 Centre reopens
The National 1798 Rebellion Centre has reopened for 2026.
The opening hours are: Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5.00pm and weekends from 12.00pm to 5.00pm with last admission each day at 4.15pm.
Go along also to enjoy the delicious offerings from Cafe 98 before venturing through the award winning exhibition!
The Centre’s management says, “Thank you to everyone who supported us in 2025 and here's to another year of bringing history to life!”
For more information visit: www.1798centre.ie n
public. The recordings show how different life in Wexford was for our previous generations of ancestors. I’m confident they will be a rich asset to researchers and family members.”
Wexford Library and Archive Service continues to collect oral history recordings and will upload more recordings and other resources to DRI in the future
For further information, contact the Local Studies Librarian at 053 919 6330 or libraryhq@wexfordcoco.ie n
History Club in Wexford Town for Teenagers
Join Derek on the second Thursday of every month at 6.30pm at Wexford town library for historical discussions, research projects, journaling, genealogy studies, guest speakers and more. Suitable for 14-17year-olds.
Booking is essential: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/4372136 n
'The Palatines in Co. Wexford'
A History Talk entitled 'The Palatines in County Wexford' will take place on on Thursday, 26th February, 7pm8pm, in Enniscorthy Library, in collaboration with Ui Cinsealaigh Historical Society.
Enniscorthy Library and Ui Cinsealaigh Historical Society would like to invite you this talk which will be given by Bernard Browne.
Bernard Browne is the author of number of books on aspects of County Wexford history, the most recent being Mayglass Holy Tower published in 2025. He is a regular contributors to Journals.
Booking is essential.
Please register for your place below: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/ 4508068 n
Vinegar Hill updates
Medieval Ferns
Want to try something new and very different this month? Then try the Medieval Ferns Experience at Ferns Community Centre which tells the fascinating story of Ferns’ medieval history in an interactive and fun way. Using audio-visual sensory and virtual reality, it really gives a great insight into power shifts in the Ancient Capital of Leinster.
Opening hours for November to May are 11am-5pm Wednesday to Saturday with last admission at 4pm.
Entry fee is €6. Seniors/Students €5. Children under 12 are free. Guided walking tours of the key historical sites in Ferns village are also available costing €10. n
New seating has been installed.
New Heritage Interpretive panels are due to be installed this month.
Parking and access improvements to Vinegar Hill are being investigated by Wexford Co. Council.
€40,000 in government funding has been awarded to Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) for signage and laneway improvements. The Enniscorthy East Community Development Association believes it has identified a site that could be used to allow access to the Hill for buses etc, and could potentially house a new welcome centre/coffee shop/toilets, etc and have contacted EMD officials about it. n
These six ‘R’s can save our planet!
Refuse single use plastics (bags, cups, etc)
Rethink your choices
Reuse as much as possible
Repair before you replace
Recycle all packaging and plastic bottles
Rot all your organic stuff and put it back into the soil n
Can you help?
Do you have a few hours to spare a month? Find yourself bored mid week evenings or at the weekend? Want to make your town a better place? Please contact Enniscorthy Tidy Towns: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown Email: enniscorthytt@gmail.com n
Report illegal dumping
Wexford County Council has three methods to log illegal dumping complaints:
1. Call: 053 919 6000
2. Email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
3. Website to report illegal dumping: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/waste-and-recycling/report-illegal-dumping n
Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA) has been approved for a Local Waste Prevention Grant, which it will use to restore unwanted tools for reuse by its members.
So have a look around your house/shed for tools that ECA can restore, and please leave them at the ECA shed reception. n
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers are doing a lot of work at present on their anti-dog-fouling campaign including the use of stencils and spray paint to spray “Bag It, Bin It” messages on footpaths which are prone to dog fouling. Dog poo contains harmful bacteria, is unsightly, gets on shoes, buggies, wheelchairs etc and, of course, is a big problem for visually impaired people. The Tidy Towns group is pleading with dog owners to practise responsible dog ownership, pick up after your dog and bin that poo. n
Does your home allow you to age in place with independence?
Enniscorthy Library would like to invite you to take part in a ‘Healthy Age Friendly Homes’ talk and Q&A on Thursday, 19th February, at 7pm in Enniscorthy Library.
Does your home allow you to age with independence? Do you have a family member or a friend who is over 65 and needs some advice to help them to continue live in their house in their autumn of life?
The Healthy Age Friendly Homes programme provides information and support on accessing home adaptation grants, assisted technology, SEAI and the warmer homes scheme, information on finances such as pensions and allowances, health supports, and local community services.
The Healthy Age Friendly Homes programme aims to assist older people to remain in their own homes with dignity and independence for as long as possible.
Booking is essential. Please register here: https://wexfordcoco.libcal.com/event/450 8088 n
New biodiversity action plan for Enniscorthy’s river walk
A Community Biodiversity Action Plan in relation to the Slaney River Walk in Enniscorthy was officially launched on 27th November 2025 at an event in the Riverside Park Hotel. The Plan has been produced for Enniscorthy Tidy Towns by the ecological consultant Faith Wilson.
Read the full Plan here: https://www.sustainableenniscorthy.com/tidytowns.html n
Enniscorthy
entrepreneur’s success
Kate Doyle – an Enniscorthy craft and design entrepreneur, has taken home the national Sustainability title at Showcase 2026 in the RDS, for creating high quality, reusable products that promote sustainable living for families across Ireland. See full story in our business section on page 85. n
Kate Doyle
Bag it, Bin it!
A ‘Bag It Bin It’ education pack has been sent out to all primary schools in Co. Wexford aiming to bring the topic of dog-fouling into the classroom through a variety of lesson plans and activities.
An Cathaoirleach Councillor Joe Sullivan stated that, ‘Great work has been done to raise awareness of the issue of dog fouling on footpaths, trails and parks, but this education pack has heightened the significance of this amongst our students. They are learning about the health hazards it can pose, and how harmful it is to the environment. All dog owners have a civic responsibility to clean up after their dogs and if we all bag it and bin it, we can protect our communities, our wildlife, and our outdoor spaces.’
Cliona Connolly, environment awareness officer with Wexford County Council, said, ‘We all know dog poo is unsightly, and discarded poo can pose a health risk as it contains harmful bacteria and parasites. Parents with buggies, children, wheelchair users, and the visually impaired are particularly at risk of stepping in or wheeling through dog poo, and being ex-
posed to health implications, not to mention the unpleasantness and inconvenience of getting poo on shoes, hands or wheels.'
Cabrini Desmond, Wexford County Council’s dog warden, stated, ‘Most dog owners act responsibly but those who do not clean up after their dogs create a serious environmental and public health issue for everyone else.’
Emer Russell, Principal of Scoil Ghormáin Naofa, said, ‘We were delighted to welcome Councillor Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, along with Cabrini Desmond, dog warden, and members of the environment section to our school to launch the 'Bag it Bin It' initiative. This resource links in nicely with the SPHE and SESE curricula along with the UN Global Goals for Sustainable Development. The lesson plans are multi-faceted, interactive and appealing. Developing citizenship in a holistic sense is an important value to us here at Scoil Ghormáin Naofa and we welcome the opportunity to involve our pupils in creating awareness around keeping our local environment clean and safe.’ n
Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, presented a copy of the educational anti-dog-fouling resource pack for primary schools to principal Ms Emer Russell and students at Scoil Ghormáin Naofa, Castletown, Wexford, on Tuesday 20th January. Back row L-R: Cliona Connolly, Caroline Sinnott, Jill Latimer (Environment Section, Wexford Co. Council), Cabrini Desmond (Dog Warden, Wexford Co. Council), An Cathaoirleach Cllr. Joe Sullivan, Emer Russell (Principal, Scoil Ghormáin Naofa, Castletown). Middle row: Jonah Curran, Theo Curran. Front row: Darcy Neville, Molly O’Connor Kavanagh, Veronika Steilovska, Emily Quinn, Ciaran Molly, Conor Molloy.
Climate course for the over-55s
Climate change has never been so relevant so a new course for the over-55s, starting later this month at Enniscorthy Library, is highly recommended.
This is a free, six-week programme designed to help participants understand the issues around climate change and
what they can do about it.
The course is led by retired UN Diplomat Jacinta Barrins and is part of the Enniscorthy Decarbonisation Zone (DZ) initiative.
Participants will engage in discussion about climate science, personal carbon
footprints, and sustainable lifestyle choices.
The course aims to foster a collaborative learning environment where older adults can reflect on their environmental impact and discover practical achievable ways to reduce it. n
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers put their shoulders to the wheel
The Enniscorthy Tidy Towns group came together in unprecedented numbers on 1st February to help with the cleanup in the aftermath of the recent floods in the town.
Assisted by Edermine Ferry Rowing Club members and members of Macra, over 30 volunteers focused their trojan efforts on Island Road and and the Prom – see photos.
Follow the group on: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown
