Following the colourful Enniscorthy Street Rhythms Festival and Roots Rhythm Festival which both took place over the June Bank Holiday weekend, next up for the town is the Enniscorthy Irish Folk and Ballad Festival from July 4th-6th, based around Treacys Hotel and the White House Pub. On that same weekend, 5th and 6th July, The Village at Wheelocks will be holding its annual Wexford Straw berry Weekend of food, fun, and entertainment. In September we have both the long-running Blackstairs Blues Festival and the relatively new Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival. So lots still to enjoy in the town and district over the summer and autumn. And for anyone looking for a great day out in July, and willing to travel a bit out of town, we can highly recommend the Bannow & Rathangan Show on 10th July which has something for everybody!
After a long wait since Cathal Byrne was elected to the Seanad in January 2025, Fine Gael has announced that its replacement Councillor for Enniscorthy Municipal District is 32-yearold Patricia Byrne, a native of Ballyhogue, and an active member of Fine Gael Bree Branch. We wish her well in her new role.
We include as always a huge number of photos taken around Enniscorthy, and beyond. If you would like to purchase any of our photos please get in touch by email at slaneynews@gmail.com
If you have any news or photos you’d like us to share in the Slaney News, please email them to slaneynews@gmail.com and we will do our best to include as much as possible. Also, please let us know what you think about our online format. Tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook page, ‘Slaney News’, which now has 13,500 Followers. And, of course, if you like our format please spread the word so we can grow our online readership. Thank you – Frank Corcoran
Everything on site for all the family this summer: ☀ Horse and pony trekking ☀ Coffee dock & chipper ☀ Live music
Any cyclists passing our way call in for a cup of coffee. Loads of things to do in the area: Kayaking in Fethard-on-Sea, relaxing walks in Tintern Abbey, great food in our local pubs. To book, call or whatsapp Margaret on 087 271 8803. For rent, choose between: ☀ Self-catering cottages ☀ Pod ☀ Caravan – sleeps 2 adults and 2 children.
SLANEY NEWS
Barbara-Anne Murphy COUNCILLOR
Enniscorthy Technology Park
KILCANNON GARDEN CENTRE
AND RESTAURANT
Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 92 35514. Find us on www.reachability.ie and www.facebook.com/KilcannonGC
Kilcannon Garden Centre - Your Ultimate Garden Destination
Soak up the best of the season at Kilcannon Garden Centre & Restaurant where gardens bloom and flavours shine. Just outside Enniscorthy, our garden centre is full of vibrant summer colour, from bedding plants to our hanging baskets and window boxes. After a stroll through the plants, take time to relax in our welcoming restaurant, where we serve fresh, home-cooked meals and daily fresh homemade bread. Much of the veggies we serve comes straight from our own garden, thanks to our "Tunnel to Tummy" initiative bringing you the freshest ingredients grown right here on-site. Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm, and Sundays 12pm to 5.30pm — Garden Centre only on Sundays. Come for the flowers, stay for the food, and leave inspired. This summer, make it Kilcannon. Make sure to follow us on social media for gardening tips, special offers, and a little food inspiration too!
Tim and Fiona Phelan invite you to visit their stylish cafe at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy. The Ballymaloe-trained couple are making full use of a new, top-of-the-range kitchen to offer exceptional food produced in-house as well as supporting local artisan suppliers. The cafe serves mouth-watering breakfast and lunch menus Mon-Fri 9am to 4.30pm, with daily specials, and brunch on Saturdays 10am to 3pm. Closed on Sundays. Takeaway and Outside Catering also available.
We’ll be open and look forward to seeing you all for brunch at the 1798 Summer School on Saturday 21st June and at our pop-up Rebels Street Food Takeaway on Rebellion Day, Sunday 22nd June.
60th celebrations at FDYS Enniscorthy
Young people, families, friends and FDYS volunteers gathered on 2nd May 2025 to celebrate 60 years of youth and community work at FDYS on Island Road, Enniscorthy. It was a funfilled event, that ran throughout the day.
An interesting slant on the day was that young people planned, led, and organised the event in collaboration with their FDYS youth workers. They met on a number of occasions with FDYS Chief Executive Kieran Donohoe who listened to how the young people wanted to celebrate this milestone achievement. They wanted the community to understand what goes on in their FDYS Island Road!
Volunteers and partner organisations celebrated with FDYS on the day. Séamus Whitney (pictured bottom right) of Templeshannon visited to hear from young people about their activities. Emma Maguire of the HSE and Julie Grant of Wexford Local Development went on a walking tour of the youth centre with
A highlight of the afternoon was a visit to the Youth Centre by former volunteer Mrs Anne Robinson (pictured bottom left) who volunteered with FDYS in the 1980s/1990s. Stories were swapped about FDYS in those days! She was accompanied by former FDYS Chairperson Mr Michael O’Neill (also pictured).
60th celebrations continue at FDYS throughout this year. ■
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Enniscorthy snippets...
VINEGAR HILL
New seating has been installed. Design and content work on new Heritage Interpretive panels is under way. Parking and access improvements to Vinegar Hill are being investigated by Wexford Co. Council (WCC). €44,000 in grant funding is being sought by Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) for signage and lane surface improvement works. The Enniscortrhy East Community Development Association believes it has identified a site that could be used to allow access to the Hill for busses etc, and could potentially house a new welcome centre/coffee shop/toilets, etc and have been in touch with EMD officials about it.
ST JOHN’S COMMUNITY WELLBEING & ACTIVITY GARDEN
Work commenced on site on 16th September 2024 and have made substantial progress. Installation of the granite seating and timber cladding to the amphitheatre area is now well advanced with paving works ongoing. The new main access point is now fully paved. The project is on track for an estimated completion date within a matter of weeks.
ENNISCORTHY TOWN CENTRE REGENERATION PROJECT
The Part 8 process for the Market Square project was concluded on 9th September 2024, with the Council approving the scheme with amendments to address matters raised during the public consultation process.
Design work on the Enniscorthy Castle Quarter project is ongoing including a permanent exhibition area to allow the display of artefacts donated by local families to the old museum at the Castle. The purchase of the old Castle Ballroom is now complete. WCC is collaborating with the Dept of Housing, Local Government and Heritage around the Ministerial Consent process (as the Castle site is a national monument).
Regarding the Templeshannon element of the TCFP, Wexford Co. Council has prepared a concept mainly for the swimming pool site and presented it at the April Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) meeting.
ENNISCORTHY CCTV
A total of 22 CCTV cameras will be installed at different locations within Enniscorthy Town which have been agreed with An Garda Siochana. Work is expected to start shortly. The Bunclody CCTV Scheme is still awaiting Section 38 Approval from the Gardaí.
ENNISCORTHY SPORTS HUB
A works contractor – Kevin Thorpe Ltd – for the second phase (sports equipment storage area, changing rooms, toilets, showers, and a small office) of the Sports Hub has been appointed. Work has commenced on site and should take 9-12 months to complete.
ENNISCORTHY NORTH BUSINESS DISTRICT (Old Dublin Road)
Some works have been carried out in recent years on the Enniscorthy North Business District (Old Dublin Road) where over 2,000 people currently work. An application for further funding was submitted to the National Transport Authority for the active travel elements of the masterplan for the area but no funding was forthcoming for 2023 or 2024. A further application for funding is being made for 2025.
MURPHY FLOODS SITE
A tender was issued on the 7th February for the design & build of a new temporary Car Park facility with public realm elements and associated site works with a closing date of 14th March 2025. No tender applications were received by the closing date so WCC entered direct negotiations with potential contractors and one has now been appointed. Works on a pared-back design are due to commence shortly and should be completed in a matter of weeks at a cost of under €150,000. The new facility will have around 35 car-parking spaces.
A valuation on the site has recently been received in the order of €280,000. It is recommended by WCC that the site be placed on the market subject to a development clause. The valuation stated that the current viability of the site would be challenging from a development perspective due to development costs.
ENNISCORTHY FLOOD RELIEF SCHEME
The Dept of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) issued their decision to reject the scheme on the 4th March 2022. Details are available on www.gov.ie The Scheme will instead proceed on a phased basis.
Phase 1 – Bridgeworks. This phase of the project will include the construction of the new River Slaney Bridge, the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge, and the construction of a new pedestrian bridge in the town centre. Public consultation took place in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on Tuesday 13th May. See more details on page 21. The estimated timeline to planning submission is Q1 2026.
Phase 2 – Flood Relief Works. This phase of the scheme will include the construction of the remaining flood relief measures for Enniscorthy town. There is no timescale available yet for this phase. An engineering consultant will be appointed in the third quarter of 2025 to help advance Phase 2.
The Scheme has a total approved budget of €51 million approx. On completion, the scheme is expected to protect 326 properties – 159 homes and 167 businesses.
BUNCLODY PARK
A Stage 2 Natura Impact Statement, plans and particulars were submitted to An Bord Pleanala under Section 177AE. The Board was satisfied that the proposed development would not adversely affect the integrity of the European Site (the Slaney River Valley Special area of Conservation) in view of the Site’s conservation objectives. The application was approved with conditions at the end of February. WCC Property Section is in discussion with local landowners.
PAIRC NA GABHAR BUNCLODY
A Public Consultation event took place on Wednesday 16th April in St. Aidan’s Hall Bunclody. All comments were taken on board. The Part 8 Planning was lodged on the 28th April. Applications have been submitted for funding to the Community Recognition Fund Scheme and the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. If the funding applications are successful, the project will be progressed further.
RAFTER STREET PEDESTRIANISATION
New recessed bollard mounts and bollards have been installed with a facility for the Emergency Services to have access. EMD is now strictly enforcing the pedestrianisation. New signage has been erected stating current byelaw times – between 10.00am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. The possibility of extending the pedestrianisation hours to cover Saturdays and Sundays will be looked at.
ALL-WEATHER ASTRO PITCH, ROSS ROAD
The official opening took place on Monday 24rd February. The facility features modern amenities, including floodlights for evening play, dugouts and toilet facilities. .
Wexford County Council signed a Management and Operations Contract, on a two-year pilot basis, with the newly formed community group – Wexford Football Alliance, which includes members of the Wexford Football League, Wexford Schoolboys League, Wexford Women’s League including Schoolgirls, and Wexford FC.
To contact the facility, email: wexfordfootballalliance@gmail.com
ENNISCORTHY TRAILS
Works are ongoing on design and planning to extend the trail network to link to the Ringwood and Borodale trails.
PUBLIC PAYPHONE UPGRADE
A new upgraded payphone and a public information interactive touch screen has been installed on Rafter Street. Broadband/Wi-Fi will be installed. The digital screen can be used to promote upcoming events in Enniscorthy Municipal District and across the county.
ENNISCORTHY TECHNOLOGY PARK PHASE 2
The Technical Consultancy Services Contract has been awarded for Stage (i) to (v) design services. Site investigations are complete, and design work is ongoing..
ENNISCORTHY TECHNOLOGY PARK – IDA ADVANCE FACTORY
The Technical Consultancy Services Contract has been awarded for an architect-led design team to prepare a planning application for a proposed advance factory building in Enniscorthy Technology Park. Site investigations are complete, and design work is ongoing. It is anticipated the planning application will be lodged in Q3 2025. ■
Enniscorthy’s new graveyard is now wired for sound
ClIr Pat Kehoe was in touch recently to update us on the necessary works carried out by Wexford County Council to ensure a properly functioning public address system can now be used in the new cemetery across from St. Mary’s.
Cllr Kehoe says, “For a number of years
now, particularly coming up to patron time, people have been concerned about the need to have speakers available to allow them hear services and prayers when they are at the graves of their loved ones in the new cemetery. I am happy to say I met with the local senior engineer Neville Shaw, as well as Fr. Tom Dalton and the relevant contractors,
Wexford County Council will be holding a Mattress Amnesty event this autumn similar to previous ones run by them. Full details to follow soon.
to work out a solution. A cable has now been brought across the road to the new cemetery which means speakers can be used as and when they are needed in the new cemetery. I know this is something that will mean a lot to families of those buried in the new cemetery so I'm delighted we could work together to find a solution." ■
Scholarship for Mohammed
Enniscorthy CBS is very proud of past pupil, Mohammed Hossain, who received a JP McManus Scholarship on 25th of April 2025. Mohammed was a member of St Mary’s CBS class of 2024 and is currently studying Computer Science in Trinity College.
Mohammed achieved 625 points in his Leaving Certificate in 2024 at Enniscortrhy CBS where he studied eight subjects at higher level and he particularly enjoyed the STEM subjects and also taught himself Applied Mathematics.
Mohammed is studying Computer Science at Trinity College Dublin where his interest in mathematics, computers and artificial intelligence is well catered for.
Looking back at his time in Enniscorthy CBS, Mohammed says, “I really appreciate every single one of my teachers for everything they have done to help me.” ■
Centra The Shannon proudly sponsoring Coláiste Bríde's Healthy Active Week.
Affordable homes launched
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage
James Browne TD was in Enniscorthy last month to perform the official launch of two new phases of affordable homes for sale to first time buyers in Wexford town and Enniscorthy.
The Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme helps eligible applicants buy a home at a discount to the home’s market price. Wexford County Council will make homes available at a reduced price for eligible applicants who are seeking to purchase a newly built home but need additional funds to bridge the gap between their mortgage and deposit to cover the full price of the home.
Wexford County Council will provide what’s known as an ‘Affordable Dwelling Contribution’, a monetary contribution, towards the cost of purchasing the house, which reduces the price the home purchaser pays. The Affordable Dwelling Contribution is represented as an equity share, a percentage share, in the home. The purchaser can redeem or ‘buy out’ this Equity Share at a time of their choosing but there is no obligation to do so.
The scheme is open to First Time Buyers and Fresh Start applicants.
The new homes in Wexford and Enniscorthy are part of the popular ‘Ard Uisce’ and ‘Old Forge Road’ developments.
The new A-rated homes, a range of 3- and 4-bedroom units, will see up to 24 affordable purchase properties made available for sale to eligible private purchasers at a price below the market price of the properties with funding secured under the Government’s Affordable Housing Fund Programme.
Prices net of the Affordable Dwelling Contribution start from €250,000 for three-bed semi-detached houses and €270,00 for four-bed semi-detached houses, with buyers able to get support through the Government’s Help to Buy Scheme.
Speaking at the launch event Minister Browne stated: ‘This Government wants to support first-time buyers and other eligible homebuyers in purchasing new homes, and the key to this is supply. The Programme for Government aims to ramp up supply of new homes and deliver another 300,000 new homes between 2025 and 2030 – on top of over 133,000 new homes delivered between 2020 and 2024. My department is examining actions to help boost delivery in the immediateterm, pending completion of a new national housing plan, and what we are seeing at ‘Ard Uisce’ and ‘Old Forge Road’ is proof of that.’
Application Process:
Applications for the 24 units will only be accepted online via individual scheme application portals which are scheduled to launch this month. All applications will be initially prioritised in order of date and time received.
In advance of the portal launches, Wexford County Council are hosting a series of in-person/online events to assist applicants through the application process including:
Information Launch Events on 4th June in Whites Hotel, Wexford, and 5th June in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.
An Application Webinar (online event) on 11th June 2025. In-person Clinics on 14th June in Wexford Library and 21st June in Enniscorthy Library.
To register to attend any of these events or to receive affordable housing programme updates simply log onto https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/housing/affordable-housing and complete an ‘Expression of Interest’ application or email rsvp@wexfordcoco.ie
For programme information or to talk to a member of the Affordable Homes Wexford Team, contact affordablehousing@wexfordcoco.ie ■
L-R: Anthony Murphy (Wexford Low Energy Homes), Eddie Taafe (Chief Executive WCC), Cllr Aidan Browne (Cathaoirleach EMD), Cllr Catherine Walsh (Mayor of Wexford), James Browne TD (Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage), Cllr. Pip Breen (Cathaoirleach WCC), Mike Morrissey and Jack Morrissey (Wexford Low Energy Homes), Ken Murphy (Bridge Auctioneers), Stephen O’Connor (SEO Housing, WCC), Mick Morrissey (Wexford Low Energy Homes), Anthony Murphy (Arcadia Architects), Podge Reck, Dan Morrissey (Wexford Low Energy Homes).
50 incredible years
Reach Ability (formerly Co. Wexford Community Workshop) is thrilled to be now celebrating 50 incredible years in existence, and to mark the occasion it has created a special anniversary booklet that’s now available across all its social enterprises – Kilcannon Garden Centre, Astro Active, Bellefield Design, and Dill & Pickle Café.
Inside, you’ll find a look back at Reach Ability’s rich history, highlights from its journey so far, and a full calendar of the exciting 50th anniversary events happening throughout the rest of this year.
The organisation is also honoured to include a Golden Jubilee speech from Chairperson, David B. Wrafter, which is a heartfelt reflection on how far Reach Ability has come and the community that made it all possible.
Pop in, pick up your copy, and help celebrate this incredible milestone. And keep an eye on Reach Ability’s social media to stay up to date.
Here’s to the next 50 years of Celebration, Integration, Inclusion and Community. ■
Planning permission granted
The Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, has recently been granted permission by An Bord Pleanála for a major extension to house 24 new bedrooms, and other works at the hotel. ■
Greyhound racing every Monday and
Thursday
in Enniscorthy
Greyhound Racing in Enniscorthy is now on every Monday and Thursday.
Enjoy the fun and the craic at Enniscorthy Track.
Group rates available.
Cafe, bar, shop, hot food available, outdoor and indoor seating.
Contact the office for more details: 053 923 3172 / Tel: 087 4893859.
Follow on social media for updates. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthygreyhound.track
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1st Floor, 10 Templeshannon Quay, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, Y21 A8X5
New Early Morning Service from Enniscorthy to Wexford
A new service commenced on Monday 19th May 2025, departing from Enniscorthy at 07:00, and arriving in Redmond Square, Wexford town, for 07:30.
This service operates as far as the IDA Business Park in Drinagh and also serves:
- The Newtown Park Hotel
- Wexford General Hospital
- Trinity Street and
- Kerlogue Business Park.
This service is suitable for anybody from Enniscorthy or Oylgate looking to arrive in Wexford before 8am. It operates Mondays to Fridays only. ■
Enterprise Ireland’s Founders Listening Tour visited Enniscorthy’s GreenTech HQ on 27th May 2025 to meet founders from the south east who shared their thoughts with Enterprise Ireland on the regional and national ecosystem. There was much discussion round what’s working and what more could be done to support start-ups and scale-ups. EI has a new strategy which seeks to support 1,000 new start-ups over the next five years.
What does it take to scale a business from a small startup to a €300m+ global success story? Anne Heraty, one of Ireland’s most iconic entrepreneurs and the first woman to lead a company on the Irish Stock Exchange, is joining us at GreenTech HQ on 19th June 2025, 11am-1pm, for a masterclass you won’t want to miss. From navigating challenges to building long-term value, Anne brings decades of insight that every founder, leader, and innovator can learn from. Contact: admin@greentechhq.com ■
The event began with a panel discussion where chair Ann O’Dea and EI’s Conor O’Donovan were joined by two local founders including Max Shannon who worked for Daft for many years and recently bought a house in Enniscorthy. He found the whole process to be so painful that he decided to found his company, Rylax, a property management platform designed for homeowners, renovators and selfbuilders to take the pain out of buying and managing a new home. He spoke of the loneliness of being an entrepreneur, and how much he got from being in the room with fellow founders.
Co-founder of Brandbuilders, Yvonne Johnson is a seasoned entrepreneur with several successful sales, marketing and distribution businesses behind her. She and her partner moved to the south-east from Dublin when their kids were young, principally as a lifestyle choice, but she pointed out that today remote working means one can found a business almost anywhere.
“Having the listening tour here was fantastic, particularly for the south-east where we find Enterprise Ireland is not as visible on the ground,” said Ed Murphy, CEO of GreenTech HQ, and an established entrepreneur and investor himself. “To have Enterprise Ireland come and listen and to, understand the issues and the challenges that are faced by start-ups and scale-ups in the south-east is very, very important.” ■
L-R: Ann O'Dea, Max Shannon, Yvonne Johnson and Conor O’Donovan at GreenTech HQ, Enniscorthy, on Tuesday, 27th May. Image: Connor McKenna/SiliconRepublic.com
Enniscorthy’s cycling tourism potential
Long-time cycling campaigner Phil Skelton took the opportunity at the launch of Enniscorthy’s Cycle City Label, on 16th May 2025, to give the background to this designation and to outline the potential for cycling tourism in this area.
❝ I have long held a firm belief that Enniscorthy just hadn't tapped into the potential success that hosting a stage of the Tour de France, back in 1998, could bring.
The opportunity to put that to right came in 2021 when I spotted (with my limited FCJ Bunclody French) an advert on a French website that I had been viewing.
The huge brand that is the Tour de France was seeking applications from host towns with ambitions to promote and deliver on everyday, leisure, and sports cycling and I figured... why not... why shouldn't Enniscorthy be ambitious and become the only location at that time, outside of mainland Europe, to hold such a label and to use this to leverage every possible advantage.
This was during Covid and with meet-ups prohibited, along with tight submission deadlines, it was important to get the right people behind this.
People woven in to the very fabric of Enniscorthy's business, education, political, and advocacy communities came on board.
People such as Dervla Tierney from Reimagining Enniscorthy, ClIr. Barbara-Anne Murphy, then District Manager Ger Mackey, John Ryan R.I.P. (then Principal of Enniscorthy CBS), Colm Neville (Riverside Park Hotel and then Chair of Visit Wexford), Jimmy Gahan from Enniscorthy and District Chamber, to name but a few.
Such was the buy-in and the quality of the submission, I was quietly confident of giving this a fair shot.
The good news came in May 2021 when Enniscorthy was awarded Tour de France Cycle city, one bike status, and I’m delighted to be here today for its official launch during Bike Week.
Cycle tourism has the potential to significantly boost the local economy through direct spending, job creation, and infrastructure development. It’s literally a case of build it and they will come.
When we look at Europe, for example, cycle tourism contributes up to €60bn annually and even surpasses the European cruise ship industry and sustains around 500,000 jobs across the regions. In Germany alone, it generates over €12bn annually supporting thousands of local businesses. Ireland has barely tapped in to this lucrative market with an estimated €200m.
Cycle tourists spend 6-9% more per trip than other tourists often on accommodation, food, bike rental and other local services. Cycle tourism promotes sustainable travel, reducing carbon footprints and supports rural economies by drawing visitors to less trafficked areas.
But down to where the rubber meets the road here… many people will be wondering what exactly this means for Enniscorthy and beyond or what can they expect. We don’t have to reinvent the wheel here to tap in to this market. Indeed Failte Ireland has carried out a review of what makes for good cycling tourism. Beautiful scenery and landscape was the top priority for the overseas and domestic markets – look around us here to see what’s on our doorstep – many people are shuffled by excellent marketing to the West of Ireland for example but with a busier Rosslare Harbour on our doorstep, the potential to have cycle tourists linger a little longer in the model county is massive.
The second most important priority was the requirement for traffic-free and safe-cycling routes, perhaps reflecting the large proportion of the market that travels with children. The Enniscorthy Municipal District is a blank canvas in that regard but many opportunities are there. Today, Enniscorthy has put down a marker.
Co. Wexford is not without ambition – part of the current county development plan includes a Blueway for the River Slaney – anyone who has visited the Carrick on Suir to Clonmel Blueway will be left in no doubt what that could deliver.
Imagine the potential of running a bidirectional greenway alongside the proposed Rosslare to Oylegate motorway and linking it into the old Macmine railway track – this could be transformational.
This Tour de France cycle city status award should act as a catalyst to give cycling a shove in the right direction and hopefully reap the rewards this can bring not just for tourists but for locals looking for safe and fun ways to travel by bike. Let today renew a direct focus on this potential asset.
We currently have a one cycle award – why not aim for 2 or even 3?
Let’s not leave this opportunity behind. ❞
Phil Skelton speaking at the launch of Enniscorthy’s Cycle City Label, on 16th May 2025, at The Fairgreen, Enniscorthy.
TOWN TALK IS BRITAIN SPEARHEADING MAKING EUROPE GREAT AGAIN?
History tells us that for hundreds of years Great Britain had the utmost of worldwide influence. With a footprint all over the globe, known as the commonwealth, and a navy that ruled the waves, it was unequalled. As the centuries progressed the British Empire dwindled and so did its power. In the most recent times we have seen it flexing its muscles on the world stage most noticeably under Thatcher and Blair, however in the last few years she has portrayed a shadow of her former self. That is until now.
Don’t get me wrong, she will never again be up there with the likes of America, Russia, or China but she can at times punch above her weight and can influence the narrative. Since Blair, Britain has cut the military budget year on year and the army looks more like the National Guard. Under the current global political tensions, Kier Starmer has set out to change all this.
In a short number of months the British Prime Minister not only has taken his place on the global stage, he is also setting the agenda. Trump complained that the European states were not paying enough into N.A.T.O. This caused many states to increase their military spend-
WITH KEITH DOYLE
ing. England has now committed 3% of GDP at the expense of social welfare budgets. For a Labour government this is a big deal causing the Minister to resign.
Starmer also led a ‘coalition of the willing’ on the Ukraine question resulting in a stronger and resolute response. This initiative has made Europe a more united and cohesive unit after the Trump wobble. Even Germany has taken a more proactive stance in its support
for Ukraine which is a departure from the guilt-ridden, hamstrung policy since World War II. Britain also seems to be hardening its policy on Israel which may be the key to unlocking the inaction stance that the European Union has held till now.
So where does Starmer get the moral authority to carry out this strategy?
Simply that England has reset the relationship with the European Union. A trade deal was done which has repaired the frosty relationship that existed ever since Brexit. This was a bold but necessary move as Keir was against Brexit at the outset of that debate. This was done under the cover of the Trump trade war. Along with a deal with America and with India, Europe was done at the same time. This took the sting out of the issue. Apart from some predictable noises from the right of the political spectrum, it generally passed the muster as a success. All this allowed him to step into the breach after the constant degrading of Europe by the American administration in recent months. With the European Union now buoyant and on a sounder footing, I feel they won’t be as easy to push around in the American trade negotiations. ■
Keir Starmer EU–UK trade deal.
Public consultation for Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme
A developed scheme was first exhibited to the public in Enniscorthy Library in 2019. Over four hundred people attended the exhibition, and the scheme was well received. The scheme confirmation documents required for ministerial consent were submitted to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) in March 2020. In April 2021, Wexford Co. Council issued supplementary environmental information to the OPW and DPER to support the approval process. DPER issued their decision to reject the scheme on the 4th March 2022. Details are available on www.gov.ie
The Minister for State with responsibility for the OPW, Mr Kevin Moran, and senior officials from the OPW and Wexford Co. Council attended a special meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District on 15th April 2025 to update the members in relation to the Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme. It was confirmed that the Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme is proceeding on a phased basis. Phase 1 of the scheme will involve the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge, which poses a significant obstruction to river flow through the town centre during flood events, and the construction of a new road bridge and new pedestrian bridge to replace the Seamus Rafter Bridge. Phase 2 of the scheme will involve the construction of the remaining flood relief works required for the town.
Phase 1 - Public Consultation:
Wexford County Council held a Public Consultation Day to gather feedback and opinions in relation to the options being considered and the emerging preferred option for Phase 1. The event was held in the Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club on 13th May 2025 and attended by about 70 people.
Submissions can still be sent to EnniscorthyFRS-Phase1@rod.ie or by post marked as ‘Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme, Phase 1 Submission’ addressed to Roughan & O’Donovan, Arena House, Arena Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18, between Tuesday 13th May 2025 and Tuesday 10th June 2025.
This phase of the project will include the removal of the Seamus Rafter Bridge , the construction of the new River Slaney Bridge, and the construction of a new pedestrian bridge in the town centre. The estimated timeline to planning submission is Q2 2026. The plan for one option for Phase 1 is shown below.
This phase of the scheme will include the construction of the remaining flood relief measures for Enniscorthy town.
Full details at: https://enniscorthyfrs.ie/?page_id=1669 ■
Ballindaggin Communion
St Colman’s Church, 17th May 2025.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
Colin Byrne Bursary
BBQ and Family Fun Day, Halfway House, Bunclody, 4th May 2025.
Left: Beatriz Napoli and Thomaz Ptosinide Napoli.
Right: Caroline, Réiltín and William Power. Below: Communion Class 2025.
Left: Gerrie Kinsella, Barbara-Anne Murphy and Rory Kinsella.
Right: Emily Byrne at the 3rd Annual Colin Byrne Bursary BBQ & Family Fun Day at the Halfway House, Bunclody on 4th May 2025.
St Senan’s Primary School, Enniscorthy, Open Day
Ms Fiona Wickham, Principal, St Senan’s Primary School, Enniscorthy.
Enniscorthy’s newly extended St Senan’s Primary School.
Ms. Wickham outlined the changes that have taken place: “Our prefabs have been replaced with a state-of-the-art facility for all the children of our community to enjoy. We have gained 4 additional mainstream classrooms, a new PE Hall, a 4-room Special Education Needs Base for our Autism Support Classrooms, a new Library and a gorgeous new reception area that includes our Home/School Room. We are also privileged to have a new yard for playing outside and our pitch has been levelled and reseeded.
“Our existing school has received a facelift in the form of new heating, new lighting and new paint! Our old PE Hall has also been revamped, and we are extremely lucky to have so many spaces available to us to support our children on their learning journey. The old and new parts of our school are joined together and you can move seamlessly from one to the other.” ■
Two-and-a-half-year-old Cara Fortune enjoying her visit to the school.
Alex and Daniel O’Sullivan.
Follow on Facebook: ‘Enniscorthy East Community Development’
Working on an exciting new project for The Shannon...
The regular Templeshannon column will resume next month with news of some exciting developments. In the meantime, if you are interested in making Templeshannon a better place to live for all its residents, please feel free to get involved. The Enniscorthy East Community Development Association meets once a month in the Templeshannon Community Centre. Tel: 087-2930510 for more information.
Relevant Facebook pages for Eastside news: Enniscorthy East Community Development Association Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/EEastCommunity Eastside Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/320813591438762
Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TempleshannonCommunityandChildcareCentre ■
A welcome improvement: the recently painted wall outside the Ukrainian centre, Templeshannon.
Just some of the many activities at Templeshannon Community Centre... 10.30am
7PM EVERY MONDAY NIGHT
50th Anniversary
29th May 2025
Above: Former Principal Michael Dee addressing the schoolchildren and staff.
Right: Principal Tomás Moriarty welcomes everyone. Below left: Jim Dunne, Michael Dee and Fr Richard Lawless. Below right: Pupils entertain the attendees.
Left: Attendees and schoolchildren. Above: Eilish Culleton, Helen Bowden and Theresa Ferry.
Top left: Some of the school’s teachers. Top right: Principal Tomás Moriarty. Above left: Cutting the cake: James Roberts, Tomás Moriarty, Bishop Ger Nash and Michael Dee. Above right: Helen Tobin, Margaret Byrne and Mick Byrne. Below left: Melanie Ní Dhuinn and Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy. Below centre: Róisín Carton and Eileen Ryan. Below right: Brid O’Mara and Bishop Ger Nash.
The new Courtyard Bar opens at Wexford’s Newtown Park Hotel
The Newtown Park Hotel (formerly The Maldron) proudly opened its new Courtyard Bar in March of this year with a stunning transformation that blends modern design with natural charm. The Slaney News had the recent pleasure of attending an intimate networking lunch there and enjoying first-hand the elegant new space.
Head Chef Liam Kerrigan and Executive Group Chef Tony Carty have curated a mouth-watering tasting menu, showcasing the best of local Irish produce. On our visit we were able to sample classic Kilmore fish and chips, Loch Garman mussels, and succulent Redmond Farm Black Angus steak – a true celebration of regional flavours.
The Courtyard Bar is a remarkable reinvention of the hotel’s former space. With large glass windows and doors opening onto a beautifully landscaped garden, the design seamlessly brings the outdoors in. The tranquil courtyard,
complete with a charming fountain, is a hidden gem and a perfect sun trap for guests to relax and unwind.
The coffee dock opens daily at 9:30am, with food served from 12pm to 9pm. The menu caters to a variety of dietary preferences, offering a wide selection of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, as well as a dedicated children’s menu –making it an ideal destination for every guest.
In addition to the Courtyard Bar, there’s the newly renovated Health & Fitness Club with upgraded facilities including fully equipped gym with dedicated weights and cardio room, 20metre swimming pool, plus sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and chill tub. Outside there’s a playground and mini golf on site. And not forgetting the 110 luxurious bedrooms.
Whether you’re stopping by for a coffee, enjoying a family lunch, or sipping a cocktail in the garden, the new Courtyard Bar at Newtown Park Hotel is set to become a favourite local retreat. ■
A group of ladies enjoying their visit to the new Courtyard Bar at the Newtown Park Hotel.
Top left: Taking a look around the Newtown Park Hotel. Top right: The Courtyard Bar. Left: The tranquil courtyard complete with fountain. Bottom left: The inviting pool area. Bottom right: One of 110 luxurious bedrooms.
Shopfront grants
Enniscorthy Municipal District Shopfront Painting, Awning, and Flower Grant Scheme 2025: Applications are invited from commercial properties in the following locations: Enniscorthy, Ballindaggin, Bree, Bunclody, Davidstown, Ferns and Kiltealy.
Grants available for 2025: Shopfront Painting €300. Flower Grant Scheme €150. Awning €500.
The scheme will assist business owners / operators to carry out works which will improve the exterior appearance of their business premises.
Applications will also be considered for painting of residential premises above shops in Enniscorthy, Bunclody and Ferns.
Full details and application forms are available on the website www.wexfordcoco.ie or from the Enniscorthy Municipal District office.
Completed Application Forms must be submitted by 10th June 2025 to: Enniscorthy Municipal District, Market Square, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford or by email emdreception@wexfordcoco.ie
Any queries, telephone Enniscorthy Municipal District 053 919 6830. Email: emdreception@wexfordcoco.ie ■
Street cleaning
Comprehensive street and path cleaning in Enniscorthy town centre is due to commence shortly. ■
Help to Buy Scheme
€38.9m has been claimed by 1,824 applicants in Co. Wexford since the Help to Buy Scheme was introduced in 2017, says Fine Gael Senator Cathal Byrne. “We’ve also seen 67 successful applicants in Q1 of 2025, which shows the continued support from buyers for this scheme.”
“Fine Gael introduced the Help to Buy Scheme in 2017 to assist first-time buyers in Wexford and across the country to either buy a newly built house or apartment or self-build a new home. The scheme provides up to €30,000 to be used towards your deposit. It gives a refund of the income tax and Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) you have paid in Ireland for the 4 years before the year you apply.
“As a solicitor, my practice is working with people on a daily basis who are purchasing their homes, I see at first hand how this scheme is helping people.
“The Help to Buy scheme is just one of the many ways we are helping more people own their own home. We are focused on planning reform, increasing zoned land for housing, and better coordination of infrastructure to service land for housing,” added Senator Byrne. ■
Murphy Floods site
A tender was issued on the 7th February for the design and build of a new Car Park facility with public realm elements and associated site works with a closing date of 14th March 2025. No tender applications were received by the closing date so Wexford County Council entered direct negotiations with potential contractors and one has now been appointed.
Works on a pared-back design are due to commence shortly and should be completed in a matter of weeks at a cost of under €150,000. The new facility will have around 35 car-parking spaces versus the 28 spaces envisioned in the first car-park plan for the site produced late last year. ■
Unauthorised advertising structures
Enniscorthy Municipal District (EMD) has issued correspondence to businesses in the town to advise that the use of advertising structures on or along public paths and roadways is not permitted.
EMD says the unauthorised use of advertisement structures including sandwich boards and bollard sleeves can cause difficulties for the public, particularly those with visual impairments and people relying on mechanised support for mobility. These structures also detract from the presentation of the town centre.
Unauthorised structures including sandwich boards and bollard sleeves are subject to the provisions of the Planning and Development Acts, The Litter Acts and the Roads Acts.
Businesses have been requested to reconsider the use of these structures, discontinue and remove the structures without the need for further involvement of the Council.
EMD says unauthorised structures which remain in place after the 31st May 2025 will, without any further notice, be removed by Wexford County Council.
No undertaking is given in respect of items removed. Wexford County Council will not be responsible for storing or for any damage arising and may attach costs for storage or retrieval. ■
EVERY THURSDAY – PLEASE JOIN IN
It is with a heavy heart that the Amnesty International Wexford Group continues its weekly protest as Israeli bombs are raining down on Palestinian families and famine conditions prevail. The group is urging the people of Wexford to join them, and to insist the Irish government fulfil their commitment to enacting the Occupied Territories Bill. ■
Wishing
John happy retirement
Enniscorthy CBS wishes its Geography and History teacher, John Tobin, the very best in his retirement. John’s dedication, warmth, and commitment, both in and out of the classroom, have left a lasting impact. He will be greatly missed by students and staff alike. ■
Above: Altar server Nevon Ose Odion pictured at the annual commemoration Mass at Barntown church, Co. Wexford, for Private Andy Wickham who was killed in the Congo as a peacekeeper in the early 1960s.
Right: Enniscorthy CBS Principal Brendan O’Sullivan with retiring teacher John Tobin.
St Aidan’s Communion, Enniscorthy
11th May 2025
Above right: Cian Brady and his family. Left: Leon Gierszewski and his uncle. Right: Communion buddies.
Below right: Kim Wildes, Theo Walsh and Communion boy T.J. Walsh.
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE
OUT AND ABOUT WITH PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
PAT’S PICTURE PARADE OUT AND ABOUT WITH PAT O’CONNOR 087-2870006
St Aidan’s Communion, Enniscorthy, 11th May 2025. Above and below: Fr. Tom Dalton PP gives First Holy Communion to the children.
Top right: Charie Dunne at her First Communion.
Above right: Shauna, Macey and Imelda Connors.
Right: Louise and Sadie Brogan.
St Aidan’s Communion, Enniscorthy, 18th May 2025.
Above and below: Fr. Tom Dalton PP gives First Holy Communion to the children.
Hunter Kavanagh Macey Connors
Lola Warren.
Tadgh Byrne
The Whelan family
Eve
Cooper
Finn Kenny
Odhran Windsor
Sustainable Enniscorthy
This month’s Sustainable Enniscorthy topic is Home Composting.
Now that ‘no mow May’ is behind us and the lawn mowers have been released from garden sheds and hedges are being cut and plants pruned what becomes of all that garden waste? This is a good time of year to consider home composting.
There are a lot of ways to make compost and a variety of systems to choose from, too many to provide information on in this short piece, links to further information and advice are listed below. For the purpose of this article we will take a look at two common simple composting systems, compost bins and compost heaps.
So why compost? Stop Food Waste have found that over a third of the contents of our rubbish bins comprises of food and garden waste. Wasting food and waste disposal is very expensive so by preventing food waste and composting what you can, you will save money on bills. People who compost are less inclined to waste food, because composting at home makes you more aware of the food you are throwing out.
Compost bins are readily available from all good garden centres and hardware stores and are a good option for small to medium gardens. A good system operates best on a balanced diet of nitrogen-
If you would like to get involved in Sustainable Enniscorthy or be kept informed of our initiatives, please follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
rich green and high-carbon brown materials. The most common problem with home composting is the use of too many green materials such as grass cuttings and food waste which, on their own, can lead to a gooey, smelly mess. That is why it is so important to mix in other materials to balance the green and brown materials in your compost. See the accompanying Blending Materials poster.
The compost heap works off the same principle. The ideal size for a compost heap is about one cubic metre, it can be made using four timber pallets or from the timber crate used sometimes to de-
liver fire logs. A heap this size can be built over time adding materials as you go, it is advisable to keep the heap covered at all times as it helps the process. It is also recommended to turn large compost heaps to introduce air into the middle of the heap.
So what can be composted? Almost anything that was once living can be composted. However, to avoid generating odours and attracting pests such as rats, birds and flies, it is advisable not to add animal products, parts or pieces to your compost bin or heap. See the ‘What
Can be Composted’ poster for a comprehensive list of the do’s and dont’s of composting.
The compost is not ready for use if the material is hot, smells, or you can still recognise the raw materials in the pile. Give it more time, just let it rot a little bit longer. Compost has many uses around the garden, as a mulch or mix into beds or vegetable patches, you will never run out of ways to use this black gold.
For a comprehensive guide to composting, download the EPA’s ‘Composting – A Household Guide’:
Also visit the website of Composting Ireland for great advice and training courses: https://compostingireland.ie/
And locally, follow Enniscorthy Community Allotments on social media for upcoming events and courses and their website is the go-to place for advice on growing your own vegetables. The EPA Composting Guide is also available from their website: https://enniscorthycommunityallotments.ie/ ■
Enniscorthy to host major international summit
Group at last year’s summit in Enniscorthy, April 2024.
Enniscorthy International Forum hosts the 2025 Buildings Action Coalition Summit in Enniscorthy
The Enniscorthy International Forum (EIF) will host its annual summit in Enniscorthy in June 2025. The theme of the summit, Bridges to a Sustainable Future: Innovation as a Critical Imperative in Troubled Times, reflects the contributions needed from buildings, the built environment, and energy to deliver on the challenges of sustainability and climate change. The summit agenda reflects EIF’s objective of enabling delivery of tangible local results with a culture of high performance despite deepening troubles.
“The primary theme of the summit reflects that there are many bridges that must be crossed,” noted Barbara-Anne Murphy, Chief Executive of EIF, “if the world is to attain sustainability. We must address education, policy, industry culture, dissemination/deployment, and
on June 17-19, 2025
coherence with the natural environment. We have designed this summit to be less of a formal conference and more of a gathering of motivated experts and leaders who exchange views and collect their wits.”
EIF has teamed with the United Nations Environment Programme to raise the performance of the built environment globally by activating critical investments that address decarbonisation, resilience, and improved quality of life.
The summit will feature:
1) up to 200 attendees from around the world who will carry messages from the summit back home to leaders and grassroots players; 2) the UN partnership with EIF; and 3) political leadership from Ireland, France, California, the EU, and the UN.
Notable speakers and participants include:
➤ James Browne, Housing Minister of Ireland.
➤ Tatiana Molcean, United Nations Under-Secretary General.
➤ Andrew McAllister, Commissioner, California Energy Commission.
➤ Martin Krause, Director, Climate Change Division, UN Environment Programme (invited).
➤ Michael McGrath, EU Commissioner, Democracy, Justice, Rule of Law, & Consumer Protection.
➤ Darcie Houck, Commissioner, California Public Utilities Commission.
➤ James Gannon, Chairperson at Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU).
➤ Yves-Laurent Sapoval, State Architect and General Planner of France.
Scott Foster, Executive Chair of the EIF Energy Programme, observed that “the aspiration to keep the rise in global average temperatures below 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels has been dashed, the 2°C target appears to be receding in the rearview mirror, and scientific analysts now bandy figures between 3°C and 5°C as the consequence of humanity’s shortsightedness. Ongoing political and geopolitical distractions can be equated to Nero fiddling while Rome burns. The abnormal weather of today is signalling a transition to a much hotter globe in a near future. Improving the performance of the built environment is the most effective way to meet the climate challenge while improving quality of life globally.”
UNEP’s 2024 Emissions Gap Report asserted that quantum leaps in ambition, imagination, and commitment are needed to avoid the worst consequences of the climate catastrophe that is unfolding.
A second objective of the summit is to reach hands across the Atlantic. We all are very aware of the troubled times we are experiencing. Crossing the ‘bridges’ in these troubled times will require serious doses of innovation, persistence, and tactical awareness. On the latter point, an important feature of the summit will be connecting US state and community level leadership that is working to address the climate challenge with counterparts from other parts of the world – those connections loom large as the current US federal administration withdraws from the climate/sustainable
development agenda. Deepening relationships at the state/community level is critical for sustaining the sustainability agenda.
A third objective for the summit is the BAC (Buildings Action Coalition) stepping up its scale and scope of activity –going global and local simultaneously. BAC is instituting regional clusters of its international centres of excellence, leading academic institutions, and industry players that work to deliver on the global vision of the BAC while operating in and building on local culture, perspectives, and needs.
EIF, located in Enniscorthy, was established to support the United Nations’ sustainable development agenda, focus-
ing on Buildings and the Built Environment, Energy, Diplomacy, Health, and Education. A non-profit organisation, EIF provides the secretariat of the BAC. EIF has a Memorandum of Understanding with UNEP to collaborate on a worldwide mission to improve buildings to reduce carbon emissions while keeping them affordable as well as healthy and comfortable. EIF and its partners work in collaboration with UNEP to promote and demonstrate the transformative benefits of high-performance buildings and to ensure take-up of best practice methods in planning, design and construction across the world.
The EIF Chief Executive, Barbara-Anne Murphy, can be reached at ba@enniscorthyforum.org ■
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FOOD
Genetics expert Dr Anthony Redmond to lead €2m animal evolution project
County Wexford biology and genetics expert Dr Anthony Redmond, an Assistant Professor at University College Dublin’s School of Medicine, has been appointed to lead a ground-breaking multimillion international project that will explore immune systems and the evolution of animals. He is a native of the Ballindaggin and Marshalstown area near Enniscorthy.
The hundreds of years old Royal Society in London, in conjunction with Research Ireland, have given him a prestigious University Research Fellowship within which he will lead the huge project with a budget of €2 million. His award was hailed with loud praise by fellow scientists at the May meeting of the Wexford Science Café convened by Brian Trench. One called his ascent to the award, ‘meteoric’, another that his status was now ‘stellar’.
With an entertaining approach to talking on the subject of animals and genomes and evolution, the quiet and unassuming, often self-deprecating Dr Redmond captivated a 30-member audience of mainly scientists at the Wexford Science Café. There he told of his staggered and uncertain career path from his time at St Aidan’s National School to CBS Enniscorthy (2003-2009). After studying Gen-
etics and Bioinformatics at Maynooth University, he went on to enter a world studying animal immune systems and animal evolution.
For his PhD at University of Aberdeen in Scotland, he studied comparative immunology, examining the genes and DNA in the cells of various organisms to help us understand how our complex human immune system came to be. His studies focused on comparing the shark immune system with our own to look back in time to when the antibodies that help us fight disease first evolved.
Explaining the importance of studying comparative immunology, he pointed out that ‘the mouse is the workhorse of biological research’, and has been used to “learn how our immune system works, how it breaks down, and to find out what is common, but also what is different, between the immune systems of mice and humans”.
Finding that mice could be related to humans may seem surprising to some, however Dr Redmond’s new Royal Society research project aims to explore the immune systems of unusual marine invertebrate species that are much more distantly related to us. The work will have two main goals: 1) to understand the ori-
gins of our immune system as the first animals emerged from ancient single-celled species and the role it has since played in shaping the diversity of animal life we are familiar with today, and 2) to discover unique immune and anti-microbial compounds in species whose immune systems we know very little about.
Among the species to be studied as part of the project will be comb jellies and xenacoelomorph flatworms, both of which Dr Redmond notes are little known even among scientists and poorly studied as a result. Despite this, these species are among our most distant animal relatives,
Above: Dr Anthony Redmond. Below: Comb Jellies (sea gooseberry).
Attendance at the address by Dr Anthony Redmond included in front row, far left, Prof. Cliona O'Farrelly, Dr Andrew Lloyd and Brian Trench, all of the Wexford Science Café organising committee.
meaning that comparing their immune systems with ours can help reconstruct what the immune system of the first animals looked like. As well as having split off from us a very long time ago in animal evolution, these species are also very fast evolving, together meaning their genes and DNA, including those parts that encode the immune system are very, very different to ours. This makes these species among the best of all animals to look in if we are to identify novel anti-microbial compounds, which could lead to new treatments in the fight against antibiotic resistance.
But it is not simple to study the immune systems of such unusual animals. “Our standard approaches are failing to detect the immune genes we find in other species. So, do these species have truly distinct immune systems or has the similarity broken down too much over time for us to detect? We have devised a modern combination of functional laboratory and computational bioinformatic approaches that will allow us to relatively quickly gain a detailed overview of their immune systems. This will open the door to unravelling immune system evolution and discovering new anti-microbials.”
With the awarding of the prestigious Royal Society-Research Ireland University Research Fellowship he will for the next eight years lead the project titled, ‘Immunity in the Fast Lane: Reconstructing the Evolution of the Animal Immune System and Prospecting for Novel Antimicrobials’ at UCD’s School of Medicine.
Between his PhD studies and taking up his current position at UCD, Dr Redmond was a Research Fellow at the Trinity College Dublin’s Smurfit Institute of Genetics for five years, where his research took a detour from comparative immunology. He has researched how different animal groups are related to each other based on their DNA, providing insights into the origins of the brain, gut and muscles. His work has also provided insight into whole genome duplication, a major genetic event that doubles all of the DNA of an organism or cell, that has played a role in the evolution of our own human biology and is implicated in 30% of cancers.
Dr Redmond’s new team in UCD also continues to research these areas. He has recently discovered a new animal lineage comprising over 400 species of flatworm and is also a partner in a large international collaboration seeking to under-
stand the importance of whole genome duplication in life’s history, wherein his team will focus on studying this phenomenon in invertebrate species including arachnids, snails and slugs, barnacles and rotifers.
Dr Redmond credits his mentors and fellow scientists with his achievements. The primary mentors of his career to date have been Prof. Aoife McLysaght of Trinity College Dubin (the current Government Science Advisor), Prof. Helen Dooley of University of Maryland, and Prof. Daniel Macqueen of University of Edinburgh, while his latest work sees major new collaborations with Dr Mark Pickering of University College Dublin, Prof. Peter Holland of University of Oxford and Prof. Cliona O’Farrelly of Trinity College Dublin.
Most of the audience at the Wexford Science Cafe were post PhDs and at least
three were university professors. Among them were one of his mentors and collaborators, the world leading comparative immunologist Prof. Cliona O’Farrelly (Trinity College Dublin) of Barntown, and Dick Bates of Kilmore, formerly policy maker on fisheries at the European Commission in the Berlaymont in Brussels.
The ordinary reader might think that is all fun or interesting, and ask what use it is. However, the research and work of Dr Anthony Redmond and his team is deadly serious. He said: “Combining a functional with a bioinformatics approach, we can probably discover every gene that’s being turned on as part of the immune response. We’re going as far as we can, and looking in the right places with these unusual species, to try to find new and effective antimicrobials. I hope we will.”
– M.F.
Marine experts Dick Bates, formerly EC Brussels, Mark Bates and Edmond O'Byrne.
Dr Redmond explains the Trees of Life.
Oulart storytelling house
At Bygone Days Storytelling House in Oulart, a great welcome awaits all, with good music, songs, stories and plenty of craic, tea and refreshments served. Eircode: Y25 YP70.
For details of upcoming events keep an eye on: https://www.facebook.com/bygonedayshouseofstories ■
Do you need a bright, spacious venue for your next meeting or training session? Our meeting rooms offer a modern, airy environment with plenty of natural light, ample free parking and convenient location. Get in touch today on 053 923 6678 to find out more.
Enniscorthy Toastmasters
The group meeets fortnightly on Tuesdays, September to June, in the IFA Centre, Enniscorthy, at 8pm. All welcome! https://www.facebook.com/Enniscorthy-Toastmasters129333810455771 for updates. ■
ENNISCORTHY TIDY TOWNS NEEDS YOU!
Enniscorthy Tidy Towns volunteers meet on Sunday mornings to collect litter and tidy up around the town. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed! So if you are sick of seeing rubbish on your road, street, estate or elsewhere in the community, please contact: 053 923 6518 or email enniscorthytt@gmail.com
Keep up to date on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown
Let's all help to make Enniscorthy cleaner and greener! ■
Wexford County Council is delighted to announce the official opening of Brennan’s Lane, a revitalised laneway in the heart of New Ross.
This transformative project began with detailed planning, design, and community consultation. Works commenced in 2024, with the laneway undergoing a
comprehensive refurbishment to enhance safety, accessibility, and vibrancy. The project, executed by contractor MJS Civil Engineering with design and construction management from consultants Avanti Architects, has turned Brennan’s Lane into a welcoming space that celebrates New Ross’ heritage and supports local businesses and residents.
Funded by a €500,000 grant from the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Brennan’s Lane refurbishment project was further supported by match funding from Wexford County Council, with the backing of the elected members, bringing the total investment to €891,000. ■
Increased funding for independent living
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne has just announced allocations to local authorities of over €117 million for Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and Disabled People.
Nationally, the €99.5 million exchequer funding combined with the local authority contribution represents an overall funding of €117m – an increase of 26% compared to 2024.
Wexford County Council has received a 37% increase in exchequer funding for 2025, rising from €2.66m in 2024 to €3.63m in 2025. When combined with the contribution from the local authority, Wexford County Council has a total budget of €4.27m for the grant.
Following a review completed last year, the Government has also introduced significant improvements in the grant including:
An increase in the maximum level of Housing Adaption Grant for Disabled People to €40,000 (an increase of €10,000).
An increase in the maximum level of the Housing Aid for Older People Grant to €10,700 (an increase of €2,700); and
An increase in the maximum level of the Mobility Aid Grant of €8,000 (an increase of €2,000).
Commenting, Minister Browne said: “The increased level of funding available in 2025 will continue to ensure delivery of these vital grants and empower local auth-
orities like Wexford County Council to further assist older and disabled individuals in living independently within their own homes.
“These grants also support local economies, creating employment opportunities for local contractors.
“I also want to compliment local authorities for the key role they play in administering the grants, including assessing applications and arranging home inspections where adaptations are proposed.
“Through this work, local authorities are empowering older and disabled people in their daily routines enabling them to maintain their independence within their own homes.” ■
Pictured L-R: Cllr Pat Barden, Senator Cathal Byrne, Cllr Michael Sheehan, Minister James Browne TD, Minister Dara Calleary, Cllr Brídín Murphy, Cllr Pip Breen, Eamonn Hore (Director of Services Wexford Co. Council), Cllr John Fleming, Cllr Marty Murphy, Áine Waters (Wexford County Council), Alan Fitzhenry (District Manager, Wexford County Council).
Congrats to Ken Hayes –photographer of the year
Ballymurn-based photographer Ken Hayes was recently named "Photographer of the Year 2025" in the Carlow Photographic Society.
Ken also secured Joint First Place in the League, was a Finalist in the Shield, and also won a Gold Distinction.
Check out Ken’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/kenhayesp hotography ■
Fundraiser for Gaza
A fundraiser for Gaza, organised by Carmen Sanchez, will take place on 21st June at 7.30pm in Kiltealy Community Centre – a Buffet and BBQ of Palestinian food to help raise funds for water truck deliveries to Gazan communities.
Carmen was unsure about the idea inittially, at one point asking herself: Is it ethical to organise a Palestinian food fundraiser while people in Gaza are starving? When she shared this doubt with a Palestinian friend, her response was clear and powerful: "Carmen, Israel uses food as a weapon. By honouring our culture and using food to help us, you’re standing with us. Every small act of solidarity means everything in these dark times."
Please go along on June 21st, share a meal, celebrate resilience, and send life-saving water to Gaza. Every contribution – no matter how small – makes a difference. ■
l Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Wexford County Council has vacancies in the following areas of our Community Employment Scheme:
CE North
Position
Environmental Operative with Drivers Licence – 1 position in the following area
Environmental Operative – 1 position in the following area
CE South
Environmental Operative with Drivers Licence – 1 position in the following area
Environmental Operative – 2 positions in each of the following areas
Environmental Operative – 1 position in the following area
Secretary – 1 position in the following area
Duties to include:
Location
Gorey
Gorey Enniscorthy
New Ross Duncannon Holmestown Wexford
Duncannon Holmestown
Wexford
New Ross
New Ross
• Environmental Worker - General maintenance, cleaning, planting and weeding etc. Those applying for the position with licence must hold a full valid clean driver’s licence.
• Secretary – Carrying out day to day office administration and providing administrative support to the CE supervisor.
To apply for positions in Gorey or Enniscorthy and for further information please contact - Bernie Lennon, CE Scheme Supervisor, Wexford County Council on (087) 6575743 or Tracey Begley, CE Scheme Supervisor WCC on (087) 0029702 during office hours 9am–5pm or by email to cesnorthwexford@wexfordcoco.ie
To apply for positions in New Ross, Duncannon, Wexford or Holmestown and for further information please contact –Sean O’Neill, CE Scheme Supervisor, Wexford County Council on (086 9478001) during office hours 9pm-5pm or by email to sean.oneill@wexfordcoco.ie
The closing date for all applications is Friday June 13th 2025 at 4.30pm.
053 919 6000
www.wexfordcoco.ie customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
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.
Tá folúntais ag Comhairle Contae Loch
Garman sna réimsí seo a leanas den Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail atá againn:
FP um Thuaidh
Post Áit
Oibrí Comhshaoil le Ceadúnas Tiomána – 1 phost san ait seo Guaire
Oibrí Comhshaoil – 1 phost sna háiteanna seo Guaire Inis Córthaidh
FP um Theas
Oibrí Comhshaoil le Ceadúnas Tiomána – 1 phost sna háiteanna seo
Oibrí Comhshaoil – 2 phoist sna háiteanna seo
Oibrí Comhshaoil – 1 phost sna háiteanna seo
Rúnaí – 1 phost
Dualgais na phoist:
Ros Mhic Thriúin
Dún Canann
Baile Hóm
Loch Garman
Dún Canann
Baile Hóm
Loch Garman
Ros Mhic Thriúin
Ros Mhic Thriúin
• Oibrí Comhshaoil – obair chothabhála ginearálta, glantachán, plandú agus lustan a bhaint srl. Do na poist ina léirítear go bhfuil Ceadúnas Tiomána riachtanach, ní mór ceadúnas tiomána bailí, iomlán, glan a bheith agat.
• Rúnaí – Riarachán oifige laethúil a dhéanamh agus tacaíocht riaracháin a chur ar fáil do mhaoirseoir na Scéime Fostaíochta Pobail
Chun iarratas a dhéanamh ar na poist i nGuaire nó Inis Córthaigh agus chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil, déan teagmháil le Bernie Lennon, Maoirseoir na Scéime Fostaíochta Pobail, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, ar (087) 6575743 nó le Tracey Begley, Maoirseoir na Scéime Fostaíochta Pobail, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman ar (087) 0029702 le linn uaireanta oifige nó seol ríomhphost chuig: cesnorthwexford@wexfordcoco.ie
Comhairle Contae Loch Garman
Carricklawn, Wexford Y35 WY93
Chun iarratas a dhéanamh ar na poist i Ros Mhic Thriúin, Dún Canann, Baile Hóm nó Loch Garman déan teagmháil le Sean O’Neill, Maoirseoir na Scéime Fostaíochta Pobail, Comhairle Contae Loch Garman, ar (086 9478001) le linn uaireanta oifige ó 9rn– 5in. nó seol ríomhphost chuig: sean.oneill@wexfordcoco.ie
An dáta deiridh a nglacfar le hiarratais ná Dé hAoine, an 13 Meitheamh 2025 ag 4.30in.
Tabhair ar aird nach mór don té a dhéanann iarratas ar na poist seo critéir na Roinne Coimirce Sóisialaí a chomhlíonadh d’fhonn páirt a ghlacadh sa Scéim Fostaíochta Pobail.
Is Fostóir Comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae Loch Garman.
Planting Grant 2025
IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR ALL VOLUNTARY COMMUNITY GROUPS, TIDY TOWNS, RESIDENT ASSOCIATIONS AND SCHOOLS INTERESTED IN PLANTING PROJECTS FOR PUBLIC AREAS
Applications for Planting Grants are now invited from Voluntary Community Groups, Tidy Towns, Resident Associations and schools for Planting Projects in public areas.
An application form can now be submitted by logging onto www.wexfordcoco.ie/plantinggrant
Closing date for receipt of applications 4pm, Friday 20th of June 2025.
If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Environment Section at (053) 9196684.
Keep Wexford Beautiful Competition 2025
Applications are now open to all types of voluntary community groups, such as resident associations, youth groups, environmental groups, heritage preservation groups and special interest groups to participate in our annual Keep Wexford Beautiful Competition. This competition is not just about maintaining a clean and well-presented locality, it is about fostering pride in local communities and recognising and rewarding individuals/ groups for their efforts.
An application form can now be submitted by logging onto www.wexfordcoco.ie/keepwexfordbeautiful
Closing date for receipt of applications is 4pm on Friday 20th June 2025.
If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact the Environment Section at (053) 9196684.
Wexford Wexford County Council proposes to undertake construction of new footpaths and pedestrian crossings on the R702 in Kiltealy village.
The proposed scheme consists of new footpath, pedestrian crossings, place making including landscaping and street furniture in front of Kiltealy National School and extending to village centre.
These intervention works are part of the Safe Routes to School programme, developed in partnership with the NTA and Green Schools in 2020.
Drawings are available for inspection on Wexford County Council’s website, https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/en/consultation/kiltealy-national-school-safe-routes-school-pedestrianscheme-public-consultation and on display in our Customer Services Unit, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Wexford (Y35 WX93) and at Enniscorthy Municipal District Office, Market Square, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford from Wednesday 04th June 2025 to Wednesday 02nd July 2025.
It is intended to undertake the proposed works on a phased basis subject to funding.
Wexford County Council will consider any submissions or observations made in writing regarding the proposal. Submissions to be submitted to Active Travel, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93, by email to activetravel@wexfordcoco.ie or via Wexford County Council Online Consultation Portal.
All submissions to be received by 16:00 on 02nd July 2025.
Please note that comments, including names of those making comments, submitted to the Council regarding this process will form part of a statutorily required report.
Accordingly, comments and names may also appear in the public domain.
Eamonn Hore Director of Services 27th
May 2025.
Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)
Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended)
Notice of Proposed Development by a Local Authority LAC2504
Location: Bride
Street,
Wexford, Co.
Wexford
(Townparks T.D., Wexford Urban No. 2 E.D.)
Pursuant to Part XI of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and in accordance with Part 8, Article 81 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), notice is hereby given that Wexford County Council proposes to carry out the development, the nature and extent of which is set out hereunder:
• Proposed development to provide 3 dwellings consisting of:
– 3 no. 2 bed apartments with open plan kitchen / living / dining and all associated works.
Based on a preliminary examination of the nature, size and location of the development, there is no likelihood of significant effects on the environment and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) is not required.
Any person may, within 4 weeks from the date of the notice, apply to An Bord Pleanala for a screening determination as to whether the development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.
Plans and particulars of the proposed development will be available for inspection or purchase at a reasonable fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, during office hours from Wednesday 4 June 2025 to Wednesday 2 July 2025, at the following locations and may be viewed online at www.wexfordcoco.ie/planning:
• Wexford County Council, Planning Department, Carricklawn, Wexford
• Wexford Municipal District, The Bull Ring, Wexford
Submissions or observations with respect to the above proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made in writing on or before Wednesday 16 July 2025 to:
Wexford County Council, Planning Department, (Reference LAC2504), Carricklawn, Wexford.
WEXFORD MEMORIAL TRUST
Annual Patron at The Paupers’ Graveyard, Coolcotts, Wexford
Friday, 6th June, 2025 at 7.30pm
Movies and More for Enniscorthy Words & Pics by Maria Nolan
To date Wexford Film Workshop under Director extraordinaire Dick Donaghue has made no less than four films about the history of the town and all were filmed in Enniscorthy.
The Shadow of Freedom, and A Country Divided tell the story of the town during the War of Independence and Civil War, Forbidden Bonds is based on the Prendergast family who built Enniscorthy Castle in the 12th century, and Fairy Godmother is set in Enniscorthy in 1966.
All have a story to tell about us and to date we have received no less than 20 awards in Film Festivals around the world.
Quite an achievement for films made on no budget except the goodwill of all involved and quite an amazing tourism tool showcasing Enniscorthy in all parts of the globe.
Enniscorthy is synonymous with 1798 and it has long been the ambition of WFW to make a film about the famous Rebellion but we have been daunted by the fact that such a large cast would be needed to do justice to that most tragic piece of Enniscorthy history until my own latest book The Shadow of the Pike provided the most perfect scenario.
The murder of the Redmond brothers at Ballycarney is currently in production using the exact locations 227 years later.
WFW is indeed grateful to Paddy Whelan of Corah who is now living where the Redmond family resided in 1798 for allowing us on to his land to make part of this movie which tells of the three Redmonds, Mogue, John and Pat returning home on 26th May 1798 before the Rebellion began in Wexford to be accosted by Captain Carr and the Bunclody Yeomen, some of whom would have attended school with the Redmond boys.
Captain Carr gave the order to the surprise and horror of the Yeomen to execute the brothers without evidence of any involvement with the United Irishmen, John and Pat are killed outright and Mogue is left in a ditch presumed dead.
It is one of the terrible tragedies of the Rebellion, and there were a great many, as these three men were completely innocent of any wrong doing and WFW are delighted that we have found a way to remember them 227 years later.
We at WFW have recently screened three of our films at the Courthouse in Tinahely – Forbidden Bonds, Fairy Godmother and Oh Brother and we are hoping to showcase this, our latest film, along with others at the Arts & Culture Festival in Enniscorthy over the weekend of 19th –21st September – so watch this space for further details nearer the time. n
Enjoying the summer at Our Lady’s Island
Arrival of Lady's Island 'XIX bikers gang'!
Old pilgrims seated at the tables outside O'Doherty's Londis supermarket and the Island Bar in the historic Our Lady's Island in the Sunday morning sun looked up fearfully. The noise in the distance displacing the quietness was growing closer and louder.
Suddenly there they were. Six young men on bikes taking over their attention. Asked who they were and if they were from around, one on an amazingly modified old monster of a bike said, 'We are the XIX gang'. 'From Lady's Island.' They parked their awesome bikes alongside the shop wall, disappeared inside, came out, and sat down at the tables beside the pilgrims.
And then came the surprise. As the young bikers tucked into their drinks and snacks, the pilgrims heard them speaking politely to each other with the dulcet sounds of 'Thank You' and 'Please', and saw them carefully bundle up their rubbish and place it carefully in the waste bin.
The original noisiness of the ‘XIX gang’, belied a young, well mannered, well behaved group of great young people having fun and showing off their breathtaking skills on their odd assortment of old and new bikes.
We salute those young people and their parents and teachers and community. As long as we have vibrant genteel young people like those, the country is safe, secure and happy.
Dick Donaghue
WEXFORD PUNK FESTIVAL 2025
Article compiled by Dorn Simon. Pics by Damien Smullen.
After many months (years) of preparation and anticipation, the date was finally here, Saturday 26th April 2025. The place was at Wexford Arts Centre, a bustling hub of the arts in Wexford Town.
Punk, from the term we are familiar with, being that of the music genre Punk Rock, began in 1974-76 primarily in New York City and in the United Kingdom – though we can place it earlier in terms of artists who were instrumental in the birth of the genre, such as The Stooges (fronted by the infamous Iggy Pop), who formed in 1967, and even David Bowie to a degree.
So, in essence, the Wexford Punk Festival was a 50-year marker honouring the scene itself.
Damien Smullen Photography was there on the day to capture all the press and live band shots, as live bands held the evening in a timewarp as the older generation shared the stage with the upstarts as young as 15 years old.
A live panel ‘Punk Talks’ was part of the offering on the day, where we were graced with the presence of a successful music industry name in Steve Averill, not only of The Radiators fame but linked to U2 as having been party to their choosing said name and, with his graphic design company AMP Visual, he has been the graphic designer/art director for all of U2’s album covers.
Swiss creative Martin Gössi joined the panel alongside, Alan Robinson, Pippy Firman, André Tschan and Kevin Weaver, each giving their accounts of Punk, from across the globe.
Artworks lined the walls and decked the halls with punkthemed exhibits, even an Album Sleeve art competition took place – so the day held a little something for everyone and was for all ages.
The day was filled with excitement, colour, and revere for the punk genre and scene as a whole.
Sadly, Into d’Groove was unable to get there in the end so we have testimonials from the wonderful organisers, participants and bands to tell their version of the event.
ELIZABETH WHYTE, Executive Director, Wexford Arts Centre:
“We were delighted to partner with the organisers of the Wexford Punk Festival for this very successful one-day event promoting and showcasing punk culture through quality and engaging exhibitions, talks and music. It was wonderful to see all ages engaging with this festival supporting local, national and international artists and communities interested in punk culture. We hope to support further events like this in the future at the art centre bringing the community together through shared creative interests.”
The Gakk. Pic: Peter O Hanlon.
BAGGLES & BUTCH Pic: Damien Smullen
BAGGLES & BUTCH:
“I’m not sure where to begin this spiel on behalf of Baggles and Butch. I suppose I’ll start with what a true and tremendous honour it was to have John (Holden) from Hellfish Trading to ask us to play.
Baggles and Butch started in a shed years ago and had looked set to remain in said shed forever more. For me, playing a gig with our songs was on my bucket list –granted I had always envisioned that as being two songs played at a friend’s party before the plug got pulled on us and not to the sold-out crowd of 200 like-minded people hellbent on carnage we had the privilege of playing to at Wexford’s Punk Art and Music Festival.
People talk about their fifteen minutes of fame, Baggles and Butch were given thirty. None of us could have asked for a better reception to our songs, largely about things that have annoyed or let us down over the years. Getting to talk to people who felt they could find things in these songs to relate to afterwards and being asked to sign setlists and little autograph books was a bit surreal – we thought we were on a hidden camera prank show. You will see us again soon as we’ve no shortage of things to give out about through the medium of punk.
But being able to do that in a setting with so many other brilliant bands playing and a genuine sense of community from everybody? Now that was something special. Once again a big thank you to John from Hellfish Trading, Colleen and André (especially for his pep-talk to me before we went on stage to calm down the nerves the beer had failed to), to all at the Wexford Arts Centre, and most importantly to everyone who came along and bore witness to our debut display of debauchery.”
– Love Baggles, Butch and Yuri “The Bassline Bossman” – Ross “Butch” Collie
JOHN HOLDEN:
“‘Create Your Own Culture’ has long been a Punk Rock call to arms. When you look at what’s available for likeminded people in your area and you quickly realise there’s nothing going on, you just might have to do it for yourself.
Through Hellfish Trading I was aware of a growing interest in Punk music & culture: 15-year-old kids were listening to Crass, Misfits, Black Flag etc. Unfortunately, when a punk gig happened, it wasn’t in Wexford – and 9 times out of 10 – it was age-restricted.
So the idea between my friends André, Colleen and myself was to just do it, to get a few bands together and put on a mini-festival. We decided early on that we wanted to present more than just the music, we wanted the kids to see a rounder picture of punk culture, encompassing visual art and spoken word testimonies. We reached out to various wonderful people and they all responded positively and enthusiastically.
For all of us it was important to introduce brand new bands to the culture, and 3 of the bands pretty much experienced their first time playing in front of an audience
on the night! It’s up to these bands now to step up and organise their future gigs and set up their own events.
Everything went to plan on the day/night from the weather to the bands: I haven’t heard any negative feedback. The only disappointing aspect was the fact that so many were unable to get tickets on the night but I suppose that’s one of those good problems…”
STICK N POKE:
“The Wexford Punk Festival was a seriously unique experience, and we couldn’t have asked for a better crowd or group of bands to share it with. The amount of talent in the building, from bands to artists, was unreal. It was an incredible show and definitely one we’ll remember!”
RECOIL:
“We had a great time playing the Wexford Arts Centre and just being at the Punk Festival altogether.
From a performing aspect, it was an amazing event to be a part of. There was such diversity in age groups and people, it amazed me.
There was so much passion for punk music and such a sense of community at the event. As a band who draws inspiration from all different types of punk, from the Sex Pistols and Ramones all the way to newer bands like The
STICK N POKE
Pic: Damien Smullen
RECOIL
Pic: Damien Smullen
Chats and Viagra Boys, it really proved to us that punk isn't dead and spans across generations, with many more generations to come." – Evan Delaney
THE ZONAI:
“This event was an amazing experience, three of our members ‘work’ for John in his shop, Hellfish Trading, he grew us in a lab to form and play the festival. To open and play great classics was honestly such a rewarding achievement we are endlessly grateful for. Between the atmosphere, crowd and everyone involved it was an event we couldn't forget.
As a band, our next plan is to steal the moon.”
ÁLANNA HAMMEL:
“A few months ago I was on a Zoom meeting where I was virtually introduced to André Tschan. He was planning on putting together Wexford Arts Centre’s first punk festival (not in the county, not in the province, just that building, forgive me if I am wrong in saying it’s the first ever, but it is certainly the first of its kind).
After the meeting, I sent André an email asking him if he would be interested in incorporating some sort of a literary element. Zines or discussions or something within my expertise, incorporating political elements to a degree. In the email I stated, “Apologies in advance if I’m getting overly excited.”
André came up with the concept of a panel, where I would interview each member and he would be on it to chair. Now that we had the what, it was a matter of finding the who.
I was nervous and wearing an extremely un-punk outfit, and I immediately assumed that everyone with a mohican was wondering why on earth I was there leading the conversation. I spent that morning outside The Trough coming up with questions, and the panel was a massive success.
In fact, the entire Punk festival was an enormous success. The amount of people outside, inside, all over. Between the young bands given an opportunity to be on stage for the first time, and the grown-up bands conveying their experience. The exhibition was inspiring and intriguing, and the posters on the wall of the Arts Centre looked just like my teenage bedroom.”
For me, Wexford’s Punk Festival marked freedom.”
ANDRÉ TSCHAN:
“John and I had thought about the possibility for a Wexford Punk festival since we first met in 2021. The idea was to make it more than a mere collection of acts performing on a singular evening or weekend. Much rather, it needed to be an event where everybody could gain more insight into all things Punk. Especially, what it achieved and the continuing impact it still has fifty years on from the initial big bang that subsequently affected all facets of culture to-date. We were both also very conscious that there has been a lot of prejudice towards Punk, proving that there is such a thing as “bad press”, with all sorts of nefarious myths persisting. It took four years for everything to fall into place. The Wexford Punk Festival 2025 brought together three renowned Swiss visual Punk artists with two equally prominent local ones, saw young local (some first-timers) and established Irish bands share the same stage, had a 12” record sleeve design competition judged by the former front-man of Radiators From Space (the first Irish Punk Rock band) fame, saw a panel on Punk Rock history and talked about individual experiences of early Punk protagonists from Ireland, UK, Switzerland, and USA, followed by a showcase for a forthcoming Punk-themed publication. The Wexford Arts Centre served as a great venue and it was duly appropriated by everyone to present the amazing art, artefacts, music and also accommodated hungry folks with on-site catering, arranged by us.”
COLLEEN DURAN:
I think, from my view, planning, talking and getting to know new musicians in Ireland was really easy. The bands were all keen to play… and on the day, even commented on how great the festival was for them as well! So, not No Fun but fun for all!
Most of my day on the day was spent coordinating small things, making sure folks knew where to go, distributing food tokens, etc for the bands... covering an artist’s stand when they wanted to view a panel...I only got to see snippets of the music, but that’s always the case for event organisers. You’re working the event.
As André mentioned, probably the greatest highlight was seeing all the young people hanging around, and having fun... what a great sight, seeing a potentially new scene in the offing. And seeing the Arts Centre punked up with amazing art…!!!! So cool!!!!
– Event Organiser: Colleen
Duran
THE ZONAI Pic: Damien Smullen
THE OFF BEATS Pic: Damien Smullen
ONE OF ENNISCORTHY'S MOST COLOURFUL EVER EVENTS IS SET TO TAKE PLACE ON 7TH JUNE ON VINEGAR HILL, 7pm-9pm.
The Night Belongs to YOUth is a Creative Places Enniscorthy (CPE) project, funded by CPE and the Arts Council of Ireland, part of Cruinniú na nÓg, with additional funding from Wexford County Council through the Creative Ireland Programme.
The Night Belongs to YOUth
On June 7th a spectacular carnival-like procession led by young people will pay homage to the sacred historical site of Vinegar Hill and celebrate midsummer.
Created by young people from across Wexford, the piece will culminate in an immersive spectacle featuring drumming, ceremonial dance, and song.
The event, which is organised by Creative Places Enniscorthy, gives young people the opportunity to collaborate with professional artists, prop makers, and musicians. Artist Facilitator Mary Doyle shares her excitement: “On June 7th, the his-
toric slopes of Vinegar Hill will come alive with an extraordinary pilgrimage to its summit. As dusk falls, this fantastical procession will weave together art, music, and performance, all led by the creativity of Wexford's young people. This year’s theme is the return of the Gorse Goddess; we can’t wait to welcome her to the hill!”
The Night Belongs to YOUth is billed as a highlight of this year’s Cruinniú na nÓg, the national day of creativity for young people, which will see over 50 free events take place across Wexford and over 1,000 events taking place across the country.
Speaking at the launch, Deryn O Callaghan, Director of Creative Places Enniscorthy, remarked: “The entire event has been led by the youth of Wexford. We are very mindful of the history of the area and the significance of the hill to the town, and we wanted to reflect that. We would like to see this continue into the future as an annual summer gathering centred around the alchemy of ceremony, music, theatre, and youth-led initiatives. This is the rebirth of the kind of ancient festivals that would have taken place in Ireland around Bealtaine and mid-summer.”
As part of the event, artist Mayumi Nakabayashi has been commissioned to create a site-specific land art sculpture.
“The artwork has been created in collaboration with young people from the area,” describes O Callaghan. “The piece will take the form of a chain or woven rope made from plants, which will create a circle around the top of Vinegar Hill. The chains will be carried by the participants of the event as part of the ceremony, serving as a symbol of connection and communication between humans and nature, as well as between the communities in Enniscorthy.”
The Night Belongs to YOUth will take place on Saturday, June 7th, 7pm - 9pm. Members of the public can meet at Father Cullen Terrace and join the parade up Vinegar Hill.
For further information on how to get involved visit creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie/
Drummers from Bloco Garman and artistic facilitator Mary Doyle with local performers pictured on Vinegar Hill, Enniscorthy, at the launch of The Night Belongs to YOUth.
Image: Sasko Lazarov/ Photocall ireland.
Image: Sasko Lazarov/ Photocall Ireland.
‘Just Do It’ at Y21
‘Just do it’ – or ‘Build it and they will come’ – is very much the ethos of the new creative hub Y21 Studios at Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy.
The dreamchild of Czech Republic native Kristyna Simko, spurred on by her determined partner Alife O’Sullivan, this dynamic duo have changed the streetscape of Enniscorthy to include an all-embracing, all-inclusive creative space for everyone in the community and beyond to enjoy.
At the official opening on Saturday 24th May Alfie O’Sullivan told the large gathering of friends and well wishers that ‘Enniscorthy is an amazing town full of wonderful history and beautiful architecture which sometimes gets left behind Gorey and Wexford in the scheme of things and often overlooked when it comes to creative spaces and events. Our goal is to develop a creative space for all to come together and feel welcome and inspired to share ideas and experiences.’
Alfie went on to express his pride in partner Kristyna for following her dream despite the many hurdles and obstacles in their path, ‘She was always determined to bring her vision to fruition.’
An emotional Kristyna said, ‘Y21 Studios is my dream come true and I couldn’t have done it without Alfie whose motto is – just do it – I was always waiting for the right time or to have enough money or the perfect space or the necessary qualifications, but Alfie kept pushing me to – just do it – and now look where we are,’ she finished, smiling.
Words & pics by Maria Nolan
The red ribbon was cut and the creative hub officially opened by the Mayor of Wexford Catherine ‘Biddy’ Walsh who said she was blown away by the premises and the wonderful and immediate feeling of inclusivity, integration and creativity emanating from it. ‘I am so delighted and honoured to be asked to open this marvellous multi-purpose hub that has already become a creative space for artists, readers, writers, singers, musicians, poets and playwrights, indeed anyone who has an interest in the arts and culture in Enniscorthy and I know that it will become an amazing meeting place for all in the community especially those who are in great need of spaces to come together to get to know people and to integrate into the town.’
Y21 Studios, under the inspiration of Alfie, Kristyna, and talented artist Conor Gibson, is developing and nurturing a beautiful space and environment in Enniscorthy for art and culture, inclusiveness, community spirit, and friendship to grow and flourish and that can only be good for our town and the diversity of peoples now living in it.
Do call into Y21 Studios on Mill Park Road and see for yourself what a great initiative this is, and I would like as Chairperson of the Enniscorthy Arts & Culture Festival to take this opportunity to thank Alfie and Kristyna for providing a major addition to the Enniscorthy cultural community and wish them every success with Y21 and in all future endeavours. n
Official opening of Y21 Studios at Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, on 24th May 2025. L-R: Catherine Walsh (Mayor of Wexford), Kristyna and Eimear Simko, Alfie O’Sullivan, Elaine Clancy.
Above left: The duo behind Y21 Studios, Kristyna Simko and Alfie O’Sullivan, with Mayor of Wexford Catherine ‘Biddy’ Walsh. Above right: Anne Marie Kehoe, Maria Nolan, Marja van Kampen and Dick Donaghue. Below left: Frances Byrne and Mary Arrigan. Below centre: Mag Gurhy with Mayor of Wexford Catherine ‘Biddy’ Walsh. Below right: Y21 team members at your service.
Above left: Kristyna and Eimear Simko. Above centre: Eddie Crean, Fiona Dee and Iain King. Above right: Y21 Studios’ fitness instructor Elaine Clancy showing visitors around the premises. Below left: A dog friendly environment. Below centre: Mayor of Wexford Catherine ‘Biddy’ Walsh with Murt Murphy. Below right: Eamonn and Grainne Martin.
Paddy’s Band – the feel good factor
Director Adrienne Murphy produced a class act at the Presentation Arts Centre recently in the form of the musical show Paddy’s Band.
The production which tells the story of a boy band setting up back in the day when rural Ireland was still very much governed by Mother Church, who had a say on all matters but was particularly focused on relationships and anything that might encourage and arouse young blood to do sinful things like dance, kiss, and God forbid fornicate, and Rock and Roll music was at the top of the list of incitements to sin and it was the duty of the local priest to stamp it out!
However, when one wee accidental drop of poteen leads to another, even the Parish Priest can lose his soul to Rock and Roll.
John Moore as Father Magillacuddy is a perfect portrayal of the local priest of the time and provides much of the entertainment in this fun-packed creation.
In truth all characters are excellently cast and deliver wonderful performances.
Dick Butler as the long-suffering father is the master of facial expressions and even when he isn’t speaking you are watching for his exaggerated mannerisms and body language.
So too with mother and daughter combo Cara Kinsella Eadie and Rachel Greene who give stellar performances in the roles of the Irish mammy and the farm-reared very plain daughter –both of whom are transformed into raving Madonnas by rock and roll and the success of the boy band who win an Ireland’s Got Talent type show on RTE.
The band members – Leon Malone, Owen Lynch, Dave Duffy
Words & Pics by Maria Nolan
and Shea Tomkins are amazing and look dead cool in their blue suits made by the effeminate Finty played superbly by Brian Mullens, but of course the star of the show is the one and only leader of the band and talented vocalist and musician Cameron Cloke.
Cameron must be a director’s delight – he can sing, he can play, he can act, he has commanding stage presence and not only that – he looks good – he is sure to go a long way – so watch that space, this lad has what it takes make no mistake.
The grand finale had the entire Presentation Centre audience on their feet clapping, dancing, and singing along as these wonderful performers took us all back to our youth and sent us home feeling more joyful and more uplifted than when we arrived.
What an apt fundraiser for Pieta House and Suicide Prevention and well done to everyone especially Adrienne Murphy for continuing to support this worthwhile cause whilst providing tremendous entertainment and enjoyment. n
Slaney leiSure & lifeStyle
MISSIO N: IMPOSSIBLE
Movie Reviews by Kyle Walsh
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning is a fitting finale to an iconic saga – Ethan Hunt’s journey comes full circle.
It’s hard to believe that I was a 17-year-old kid, still in school, when I went to see the first Mission Impossible movie in the Savoy cinema on O’Connell Street, Dublin. It blew me away and I was delighted when it was announced that there was going to be sequels made because of the global success the first movie had. The second movie was the weakest one of the franchise although still had some good moments too, but after that each entry got better and better, with each one delivering bigger stunts, deeper stories, and more intense action. Personally for me the sixth one is the best, Fall Out, which would be considered one of the best action movies ever made.
A lot of credit has to go to Tom Cruise, some say the last true film star of our time. The dedication Tom gives in all his films for his fans around the world is truly remarkable. He gives it his all and it’s there on the big screen for all to see. He risks his life doing exhilarating stunts. Tom has made his character Ethan Hunt into one of the most iconic action heroes in cinematic history. From sprinting through crowded streets to riding high-speed bikes to jumping off cliffs, buildings, planes, he has done it all. The stunts he pulls off in his films are truly incredible and jaw dropping. I will never forget the plane sequence in this film as I watched him wing walk on planes thousands of feet in the air. I was sweating as I sat there in awe in the Maxx screen in Wexford Omniplex Cinema.
The plot – Ethan embarks on one last mission to save the world, facing off against a formidable enemy, The Entity, a rogue AI with the power to destabilise institutions. The plot is layered and engaging, with twists that keep you guessing, and action sequences that are breathtaking as ever. The stunt scenes alone may never be equalled on film again.
While it is not the absolute peak of this glorious franchise in terms of spectacle, it still stands tall among the best thanks to its emotional depth, visual brilliance, and strong storytelling. It’s a satisfying and respectful conclusion to a beloved series.
This is a must-see movie on the biggest screen possible. When you see it please take a moment to appreciate the legacy of this incredible character and the world he inhabited. Enjoy the world’s last real film star do what he does best. Tom Cruise take a bow Sir. This film gets a 4/5 from me. n
THIS REVIEW WILL SELF DESTRUCT IN 5 SECONDS!!!
Enniscorthy town festivals
Words & Pics by Maria Nolan
Following in the footsteps of the renowned Strawberry Fair which ran for over 50 years in Enniscorthy and was loved the length and breadth of the country and beyond, we are still retaining our status as a town of festivals with our wonderful Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival ringing in the arrival of summer on the May Bank Holiday weekend and our Street Rhythms Festival putting all in the mood for those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer on the June Bank Holiday weekend.
Very well done to the organisers of both festivals which were a major success.
Our Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival is becoming known far and wide for excellent food, fantastic music, and colourful, energetic rock and rollers.
It behoves me to pay a very special tribute to Richie Cotter, Eamonn Doyle and South East Rock n Roll Club for bringing such amazing energy, vitality, movement, music, dance, colour, and most of all fun on to the streets of our town.
One cannot help but admire the magnificent outfits that our Rock n Roll Club present over the three days of the festi-
val, and I commend them for the lengths they go to, to have the most lavish costumes and accessories that light up Market Square and are a photographer’s fantasy.
These photographs and videos go out around the world showcasing Enniscorthy in a kaleidoscope of colour, a cacophony of lively sound, and a phantasmagoria of fun, energy and craic – coupled with the most delicious home produce and delectable delights from all around the country – what could present a better image – I mean seriously!
Silja Harms, herbalist.
And speaking of phantasmagoria, Enniscorthy was awash with witches, princesses, beauties and beasties of all shades and sizes for our second major festival of the summer – the Street Rhythms Festival with its fairytale trails, rhythm and roots vibes, and more rockin’ and rollin’ at Market Square along with some excellent earthy talks on nature and plants at Enniscorthy Castle.
I was fortunate to pop into the talk by celebrated herbalist Silja Harms titled Powerful Plants Among Us – an enlightening insight into the medicinal properties of the ordinary plants all around us like Dandelions, Daisies, Hawthorn, Elder and Nettle – who knew that dandelion root is good for the liver or that nettles can be beneficial for conditions like arthritis and seasonal allergies.
Two magnificent weekends for the town of Enniscorthy giving our visitors a marvellous view of a town humming with
colour, music, movement, and fun and laughter, however now we have nothing for the rest of the summer in the town centre when our schools are closed.
Fully realising that festivals are a tall order for our already overused and overworked volunteers, I would still put it out there that we have eight weeks of official summer holidays when there is nothing going on in Enniscorthy town centre –July and August are barren. We will have the Fleadh this year in Wexford but what about next year and the year after that and the year after... Something to think about.
The Blackstairs Blues Festival and the Arts and Culture Festival are scheduled for September – so all is not lost – but for the eight weeks when everyone is looking for things to do and places to take their children, we have nothing going on in Enniscorthy town centre.
Food for thought! n
31st May and 1st June 2025
Fringe Fleadh 2025 officially launched in Gorey
Wexford Co. Council and Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District proudly launched Fleadh Cheoil Loch Garman 2025 and Fringe Fleadh 2025 at a special event held in the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey, on 11th May.
This event marked the beginning of a vibrant season of Irish music, culture, and community celebration, with Gorey Community School once again playing host to the County Fleadh, which took place from May 16th to 18th.
Cllr Donal Kenny, Leas Cathaoirleach, Gorey Municipal District, welcomed all attendees and praised the talent, energy, and dedication of all involved. He spoke of the excitement felt throughout Gorey to once again be home to this important cultural event.
Speaking on the 2025 Fringe Fleadh lineup, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Pip Breen, described the festival as an immersive cultural experience designed to celebrate the richness of Irish identity. “These events don’t just entertain – they connect us,” he said. “They weave a thread between communities, between generations, and between the past and the present. That’s what makes the Fringe Fleadh so special here in Wexford. They remind us of who we are and the values we hold dear: creativity, community, heritage, tradition, and heart.”
This year’s Fleadh Cheoil Loch Garman was organised once again by CCÉ
Gorey/Ballygarrett. Chairperson Paula Carroll expressed sincere gratitude to her hardworking team for their tireless commitment over two consecutive years. She thanked the Members and staff in GoreyKilmuckridge District for their continued support and highlighted the lasting friendships and community spirit fostered through the event. Paula also welcomed Irish international rugby player Aoife Wafer who spoke about how her early involvement in Irish music remains a part of her life to this day.
Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford Co. Council, officially launched the Fringe Fleadh programme, which will see cultural events taking place across Co. Wexford throughout the summer in the
Fleadh
lead-up to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August. Mr Taaffe paid tribute to the Members of Wexford Co. Council, the members of the Fleadh Cheoil Executive Committee (FEC) and to the many dedicated volunteers who have played a pivotal role in both this and last year’s Fleadh.
The evening concluded with a powerful and uplifting concert by internationally acclaimed traditional Irish band Goitse. Their performance marked a fitting celebration of the official launch and set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season of culture and community.
Full details of the Fringe Fleadh programme: www.visitwexford.ie n
Cheoil Fringe events to be hosted in Enniscorthy District
Enniscorthy Municipal District will host a series of Fleadh Cheoil Fringe events at the following locations in June: 22nd June, 12pm-5pm, Live Music – Enniscorthy Comhaltas and Fr Murphy Comhaltas, Boolavogue, at ‘Rebellion Day’ at National 1798 Rebellion Centre, Enniscorthy.
4th July at 7pm, Ferns Comhaltas, Open Air Session, Ferns Castle & The Thatch Bar, Ferns.
4th-6th July, Enniscorthy Irish Folk and Ballad Festival at Treacys Hotel & The White House Pub. n
L-R: Barbara Walsh, Vice Chair FEC; Cllr Donal Kenny, Leas Cathaoirleach Gorey MD; Eddie Taaffe, CE Wexford Co. Council & Chair FEC; Sharon Ni Chuilinn, Chairperson Comhaltas Loch Garman; Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach Wexford Co. Council; Liz Hore, Director of Services, Wexford Co. Council.
Ahoy there Wexford!
On 23rd May 2025, the Three Sisters Cruise Company celebrated the official launch of its Wexford River Cruise – a stunning new 90-minute scenic journey from Wexford Quay to Raven Point and back, taking in the Raven Point Seal Colony.
This is a wonderful opportunity to experience Wexford Harbour from a whole new perspective! The brand-new boat tour offers unforgettable cruises around the beautiful harbour and surrounding area. Relax on the upper deck, enjoy the heated indoor lounge, have a drink from the fully licensed bar. Whether you're looking for a scenic tour or a unique private hire option, the Three Sisters Cruise Company has got you covered.
Check out: https://threesisters.ie n
Above right: Captain Declan Bates cuts the ribbon to officially launch the Wexford River Cruise at Wexford Quay on 23rd May 2025.
Enniscorthy Retirement Association Bunclody Festival of Choirs
The Enniscorthy Retirement Association holds monthly meetings on the first Tuesday of every month at 2.30pm in the Riverside Park Hotel, The Promenade, Enniscorthy, with the exception of January and August.
There are regular outings, as well as various activities every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
For further details about Enniscorthy Retirement Association go along to any monthly meeting or see ‘Enniscorthy Retirement Association’ on Facebook or email: enniscorthtyretirementassociation@outlook.com
Check out the new website which is now live at www.enniscorthyretirement.net n
Bunclody Festival of Choirs in St Mary’s Church, Bunclody, Saturday, 24th May, 2025, featured five choirs performing a range of beautiful choral music to celebrate the 250th anniverary of the church.
Right: Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy and Jemma Jackson.
Below: St Mary’s Choir in rehearsal. n
From strength to strength
Kingfishr, fronted by Enniscorthy’s Eddie Keogh, continue to work their way to the top of the music industry, with a recent No.1 single in the Irish charts, a sold-out date next December in Dublin’s 3Arena and another date added to cope with demand, and lots of national and international gigs before then. n
The origin of ‘Scalder’?
Check out the great new video about the word ‘Scalder’: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=rrRhsCtIX3k&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.crannogmedia.ie%2F 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
Rockin’ Food Festival 2025 draws record crowds
The Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food Festival made a triumphant return to Enniscorthy over the May Bank Holiday weekend, drawing unprecedented crowds and celebrating the very best of food, music, and family fun. From 2nd to 4th May, the festival brought a powerful sense of community, colour, and creativity to the streets of the historic town.
This year’s festival saw a record-breaking attendance, with thousands flocking to enjoy a weekend of top-quality artisan food, lively entertainment, and unforgettable experiences. The vibrant atmosphere was especially palpable on Sunday, with footfall hitting an all-time high.
Festival Organiser Amanda Whitmore commented, "We are absolutely thrilled with the success of this year’s Rockin’ Food Festival. The atmosphere in Enniscorthy was electric from start to finish. Seeing so many people enjoying everything from local food and live music to kids’ entertainment and cookery demos was incredibly rewarding. It’s a true celebration of our community, our creativity, and our county – and we’re so grateful to everyone who played a part in making it such a memorable weekend.”
Local Producers Take the Spotlight
The Food Marquee became a hub of flavour and discovery, showcasing an outstanding array of local producers. Ian Mernagh from All About Nectar captivated audiences with his passionate talks on bees, while a live observation hive fascinated both children and adults throughout the weekend.
A host of beloved Wexford food businesses proudly represented the county, including: Mór Taste, Zaeire Artisan Chocolates, All About Nectar, Naturally Cordial, Elderberry Cordial, Earth Food, Wexbury, Isle of Crackers, La Kav Wines, Killowen, Al Wadi Falafel, Mamma Dels South African Cuisine, Clovelly, M&M Meats, The Little Robin, The Holy Grail, Gillen's Café, and Casa d’Galo.
In addition to local favourites, artisan food vendors from across the country served up mouth-watering dishes to thousands of happy visitors.
Cooking Demos That Inspired
The live food demo stage drew large audiences eager to learn from some of Ireland’s top culinary talents. Celebrity chefs
Kevin Dundon and Edward Hayden delivered energetic and insightful sessions, while local chefs Warren Gillen from Gillen's Café and Paul Hynes (La Côte Restaurant) highlighted the best of Wexford produce.
From further afield, Matthew Brownie of the Skibbereen Food Company took the stage as part of the West Cork Food Producers, and Lorraine from The Queen Bean showed aspiring bakers how to make the perfect scones in her delightful demo as well as Alistair from Socafro, Afro Caribbean, who wowed attendees with his charismatic love of food.
A Rockin’ Musical Lineup
The music in the Market Square kept festival-goers entertained with the best of local and international rockin’ bands. The high-energy performances combined with the dazzling members of the South East Rock ’n’ Roll Club brought retro flair and unstoppable energy to the party.
The colours, vibrancy, and vintage vibes of the music created an atmosphere unlike any other!
Feeling the Blues...
The Enniscorthy Blackstairs Blues Festival will take place in the town from 12-14 September 2025, celebrating 30 Years: 1995-2025.
The 14th of June is the 30th anniversary of the passing of the Irish Blues/Rock legend Rory Gallagher. To mark his anniversary there will be a special gig in Holohan’s Pub featuring one of the best Blues bands in the southeast, The Delta Dogs, who will perform some songs from Rory's vast catalogue. This gig is a must for all Rory fans out there.
And before that, on 7th June, at 10pm, The BC Blues Band will be performing in Holohans in Enniscorthy, with special guest Barry Donnelly.
Two great gigs not to be missed! n
Fun for the Whole Family
Families were spoilt for choice with free street entertainment, a lively kids’ disco in St Mary’s Church grounds, and creative experiences hosted in Enniscorthy Castle, where artist Caroline Bergin and the Rathnure Pantomime Society delivered interactive workshops and fun-filled performances.
A true crowd favourite returned again this year – The Big Wheel, standing tall in the funfair, offered panoramic views and thousands of rides across the weekend. The funfair itself was bustling with excitement, drawing families and thrillseekers from morning to night.
Looking Ahead
Festival Chairman Eric Barron commented: “This year’s Rockin’ Food Festival exceeded all expectations. The atmosphere, the turnout, the incredible support from producers, musicians, performers, sponsors, and our amazing community – it was nothing short of phenomenal. We’re so proud of what this festival has become. The Rockin’ Food Festival was made possible through the support of Wexford County Council, Failte Ireland Festival Funding, local partners and sponsors –The Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy Credit Union, Wexford Food Producers Network and Donohoe Skoda. This festival wouldn't be possible without the dedication of volunteers, and the spirit of the local community." n
National success for young Enniscorthy and Bunclody Filmmakers
St Patrick’s Mental Health Services (SPMHS) is Ireland’s largest independent mental health service provider and ‘Walk in My Shoes’ is their flagship awareness and education campaign. Established in 2012, Walk in My Shoes runs initiatives throughout the year to promote positive mental health in schools and communities around Ireland. It holds a film competition annually called Frame of Mind which helps to promote positive mental health and reduce stigma around mental health difficulties.
This year participants were asked to explore the theme of gratitude expressing the things they were grateful for and creatively showcasing the things that positively influence their wellbeing. Co. Wexford was well represented with students from Bunclody Community College and Enniscorthy Youthreach being awarded prizes at a special recent screening in St Patrick’s Mental Health Services.
This year’s competition was open to secondary schools, special education schools, Youthreach centres and Further Education and Training (FET) centres. The winning entries were:
Short Film secondary schools’ general category:
Winner: Lighter Than Air, Stepaside Educate Together Secondary School, Leopardstown, Dublin 18.
Runners up: Grateful by Bunclody Community College. Never Feel Lonely with My Guitar, Coláiste Dún an Rí, Kingscourt, County Cavan.
Short Film category (includes Youthreach and Further Education and Training):
Enniscorthy Youthreach.
Winner: Driven by Gratitude, Enniscorthy Youthreach. Runners up: Gratitude Journal, Dundalk Youthreach. A Cycle of Kindness, Banagher Further Education and Training Centre.
Enniscorthy Youthreach’s winning film depicts a go-karting race and portrays themes of gratitude, resilience and strength.
Bunclody Community College’s film is an ode to all things in life that the class group is grateful for. It is about appreciating all of the good things in life that are sometimes taken for granted.
The competition is an opportunity for students and young people to engage in positive conversations around mental health and in turn reduce stigma amongst their peers. Congratulations to each and every one of the entrants in this year’s competition for their outstanding contributions.
The winning films were selected by a panel of expert judges comprising Michael Doherty from the RTÉ Guide; Tom Maher, Director of Services at St Patrick’s Mental Health Services; Eibh Collins, Shorts Programmer for the Galway Film Fleadh and Film and TV Manager at the National Talent Academies; and actor and filmmaker John Connors.
First-place entrants in each category won a €1,000 cash prize for their school or education centre while runners-up received €500. For more, please visit walkinmyshoes.ie, or follow on X (@walkinmyshoes), Facebook (WalkInMyShoes) or Instagram (@stpatricks_wims).
A playlist of all the shortlisted and winning films is available to view on Walk in My Shoes’ YouTube channel. n
Bunclody Community College.
Not one, but two books coming from the Fleadh’s Paddy Berry
He is the man credited with bringing the Fleadh to Wexford. Helped by former county manager Tom Enright and local traditional music supporters, Paddy Berry, the president of Wexford Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, carried out an eight-year campaign to persuade Labhrás O’Murchu and the national executive of Comhaltas that they should bring Fleadh Cheol na hÉireann to Wexford town for 2024 and 2025.
Now, in between his hectic Fleadh schedule, he has written a love story about courting in the 1960s and separately another book titled A Bit of Divarsion comprising self-composed ballads, songs and poems, written between 1980 and 2022.
Paddy Berry has had many books and recordings published over many years. He is well known among traditional musicians and music followers across the Irish culture world and several awards have been bestowed on him.
The President of Ireland, Mary Robinson, honoured him at Áras an Uachtaráin. He has been further honoured by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, the Chamber of Commerce elected him an Ambassador for Wexford, St Martin’s Community, GAA gave him an award for promotion of traditional music (2024) and Wexford Co. Council and Rehab and People Newspapers gave him a People of the Year Award for music.
Paying tribute to a music legend
His love story on courting in the 1960s, to be revealed in July, will be published during the Fleadh and his book A Bit of Divarsion will be launched at the Farmers Kitchen on Saturday 14 June at 8pm. “There will be pucks of traditional music to boot,” at the launch, he said.
Debut single from Kilmuckridge artist
Hailing from Kilmuckridge, BrandonxMidas is a genre-bending artist fusing Hyper-pop with Melodic Metalcore to create an intense, emotional sound that’s all his own. His debut single ‘Paradox’ was released on May 2nd, 2025, and is a hard-hitting track about breaking free from a higher power’s control. It is both lyrically and sonically explosive.
Produced by the acclaimed Beardfire Music team – Rohan Healy, Al Quiff, and David Virgin – who have worked with legends like Nick Cave, INXS, and Cat Power, Paradox marks the beginning of a bold new chapter for alternative heavy music. n
RATHNURE PANTO SOCIETY ANNUAL SUMMER MUSICAL
THE BOX OFFICE IS NOW OPEN FOR “HOW’YA FATHER: THE MUSICAL!”
6 NIGHTS ONLY! 3rd, 4th, 7th, 9th, 10th & 11th JULY AT 7.45pm NIGHTLY! CALL NOW FOR TICKETS: 087 6790354 OR 087 6988004
– M.F.
Paddy Berry
A new generation sparkles
Huge congratulations to the cast, crew and director of The Cripple of Inishmaan who gave sterling performances last month in The Presentation Arts Centre. Great credit is due to Fintan Kelly and his wonderful troupe of young actors who are progressing in leaps and bounds under his expert tutelage, as he passes on the craft to our next generation of Enniscorthy actors. These young thespians are so relaxed and so comfortable on stage, their diction is crisp, clear and distinct, and their timing is exact. Their command of the stage is professional beyond their years, and their interaction and delivery of lines is flawless. They certainly brought a new energy to this timeless work.
– MariaNolan
New members welcome at two singing groups
Creative Places Enniscorthy is thrilled to be supporting Enniscorthy’s new men’s choir which meets up at 7pm every Monday night at Templeshannon Community Centre. Creative Places Enniscorthy is delighted to be working with the local community as part of this project and wants to thank Linda and Seamus for their dedication and organising All are welcome to participate – no auditions. Enjoy singing 10.30am
7PM EVERY MONDAY NIGHT
your favourite songs while making new friends. Please contact 087 2930510 for more details.
For more information on Creative Places Enniscorthy please visit the website creativeplacesenniscorthy.ie
In addition, the Templars Singing Group meets up every Thursday morning at 10.30am at Templeshannon Community Centre. For more information, phone 053 9237511. n
An ‘Irish Affair’
ORIGINALLY SCHEDULED FOR A ONCE-OFF PERFORMANCE IN THE NATIONAL OPERA HOUSE, WEXFORD, SUCH HAS BEEN THE DEMAND FOR TICKETS FOR THE NEW 'IRISH AFFAIR' MUSICAL, WHICH IS SET IN CO. WEXFORD, THAT THE DRESS REHEARSAL HAS NOW BEEN OPENED TO THE PUBLIC WITH TICKETS COSTING A VERY REASONABLE €20.
'Irish Affair':
By Stuart Brayson
Directed by Deirdre
Masterson
Musical arrangements by David Wray
Produced in conjunction with The Irish College of Music and the National Opera House.
PUBLIC DRESS REHEARSAL
Thursday, 26 June 2025, 7.30pm. Tickets €20.
With less than two months to go until Irish Affair takes to the stage of the O’Reilly Theatre, the one-night-only performance is sold-out. With demand so high, the producers have decided to open the dress rehearsal to the public on Thursday, 26 June, at 7.30pm.
The National Opera House and The Irish College of Music Theatre proudly collaborated in presenting the premiere of Irish Affair in a series of workshops in June 2024 to an enthusiastic response from the audience. Director and producer Deirdre Masterson and composer and lyricist Stuart Brayson were encouraged to develop the piece further as a result. They were further encouraged by lyricist Sir Tim Rice and global music executive Chris Wright CBE, who later offered to come on board as Executive Producers.
Now with additional music, double the cast, and the addition of dancers and musicians, this new version of Irish Affair will be introduced by the legendary lyricist and Executive Producer of Irish Affair, Sir Tim Rice, who has a plethora of global credits to his name including The Lion King, Evita and Jesus Christ Superstar.
Set in the rural village of Fethard-on-Sea, Co. Wexford, in the 1950s, Irish Affair - A Love Story for all Time, is based on the true story of married couple Sean and Sheila Cloney née Kelly, one Catholic and one Protestant, and the inspirational journey of how their love drove them to overcome the religious and political obstacles which divided the nation and became an international incident.
Irish Affair is penned by West End composer Stuart Brayson, (From Here to Eternity), produced and directed by Wexford soprano Deirdre Masterson (The Irish College of Music Theatre) with musical arrangements/direction by David Wray (Michael Collins and Angela’s Ashes), with support by the National Opera House. One of the songs from the score, ‘She Is My Everything’, was recently broadcast for the very first time on ‘Elaine Paige on Sunday’ on BBC Radio 2 to an incredible response from both host and listeners.
Irish Affair is a mesmerising piece of drama, based on true events. The narration is further enhanced with a luscious
score, infectious toe-tapping melodies, unforgettable hauntingly beautiful airs and a sprinkle of traditional Irish influences, evoking both tears of sorrow and laughter throughout. An inspiring, uplifting musical suitable for all the family.
Tickets can be purchased online at www.nationaloperahouse.ie or by ringing the National Opera House box-office on 053 912 2144. Box Office phone lines are open from 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday. n
L-R: Composer Stuart Brayson, Sir Tim Rice, and director Deirdre Masterson. Pic: Mark A. Ivory.
Fionn Gardner, Karla Tracey, Lyla and Allie Keane in 'Irish Affair'. Pic: Mark A. Ivory.
Cruinniú na nÓg in Co. Wexford
A
DAY OF FREE CREATIVITY FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE – 7TH JUNE 2025.
7TH JUNE – A DAY OF FREE CREATIVITY FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE
Ireland is the first, and only, country in the world to have a national day of free creativity for children and young people under 18. Cruinniú na nÓg is a flagship initiative of the Creative Ireland Programme’s Creative Youth Plan to enable the creative potential of children and young people who can can come together to enjoy a wide range of creative activities including workshops, tutorials, readings etc in lots of cities, towns and villages across the country.
The Cruinniú na nÓg national day of creativity for young people will take place on Saturday, June 7th, with over 50 free events taking place across Wexford County. See cruinniu.gov.ie
In addition to Co. Wexford’s five libraries, other venues include the National Opera House, Wexford Arts Centre, and Vinegar Hill (see page 55). All will be alive with activities ranging from animation and coding workshops to creative writing, mural painting, printmaking, and much, much more.
Speaking at the announcement, Cllr. Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, remarked, “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the local youth organisations, creative professionals, libraries, and community groups, without whom this event would not be possible. I would encourage all young people in the county to come join the celebrations.”
LIBRARY ACTIVITIES
This year specially curated workshops
will take place across Wexford's five libraries. Designed from toddlers to twelve-year-olds, activities can be booked on the Cruinniú na nÓg website.
At Enniscorthy Library, the award-winning designer and upcycling advocate Lynn Haughton will lead a workshop where children can decorate large puzzle pieces with upcycled materials. The Wexford Youth Theatre WACT will offer acting lessons, while NCAD graduate Millie Case will conduct workshops in wet wool felting. Additionally, children can take part in stop motion animation workshops or engage in a sensory activity where they will create their own ‘calm down bottle’.
Over at Bunclody Library, there will be storytelling through LEGO games, and musician Laura Hyland will be leading a workshop in singing and voice work.
At New Ross Library, artist Celeste Shimora Goedert will lead workshops in ‘print making with natural materials’ and there will be workshops in drama and music.
At Wexford Town Library, children will have the opportunity to explore the art of weaving or create memory maps through collage, coloring, and drawing. Artist and designer Cuan Cusack will lead workshops focused on creating fine art prints using shadows and sunlight. Young musicians can participate in the ‘music and movement for little ones’ workshop. Additionally, theatre maker Alison Ni Mhairtin will conduct an Irish Sign Language drama storytelling workshop specifically designed for children with additional needs.
At Gorey Library, renowned painter Lillian O'Sullivan will conduct introductory oil painting classes for children. Young people can explore bookbinding and illustration, or participate in a bilingual singing workshop. Elizabeth Flynn will lead a weaving workshop using seasonal plants, and there will be an opportunity for aspiring computer scientists to learn coding through bracelet-making. Additionally, neurodiverse children, or those
who may feel overwhelmed, will benefit from the Sensory Hour facilitated by Cathy Coughlan.
OTHER VENUES AND TEEN ACTIVITIES
At the Taghmon Family Resource Centre, filmmaker Leah O’Toole, known for her work on ‘The Banshees of Inisherin,’ will be leading a filmmaking workshop. Additionally, the Red Moon Theatre Company will offer workshops for children.
Director Tony McLeane-Fay from Barecheek Theatre Company will conduct acting workshops at The National Opera House, and at the Gorey Family Resource Centre there will also be workshops led by mixed media artist Elaine Tobin from the Gorey Arts Collective.
Teenagers can look forward to mural painting demonstrations at The Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy, as well as at the Wexford Arts Centre, facilitated by The Walls Project. Wexford Arts Centre will also host coding workshops presented by Anyone4Science. The Stella Maris Centre in Kilmore Quay will host ‘Yola and Our Stories’, an engaging theatre workshop for children focusing on heritage, history, and storytelling, facilitated by Chris Moran.
SHARED ISLAND PROJECT AND EXHIBITION
This year, teenagers from Wexford and Belfast will come together as part of an innovative ‘Shared Island’ project that aims to spark critical discussions about misinformation surrounding the topics of climate change and health. The groups will engage online and work with theatre professionals to create a scripted performance. A 360-degree VR video expert will record the final performances, and members of the public will have the opportunity to experience the piece using Google Cardboard viewers that will be available at libraries throughout the county. An exhibition documenting the project will be on display at Wexford Arts Centre, curated by young people from the centre’s Creative Youth Lab.
SELDOM HEARD GROUPS
As part of this year’s theme of inclusion
and connection, Cruinniú na nÓg will partner with seven groups across Wexford identified as 'Seldom Heard’. These essential community groups provide support to young people on various issues, including LGBTQI+ support, young individuals in direct provision, and those living with long-term illnesses. Each group will be matched with an artist or expert facilitator who comes from similar background or has been through similar life experiences as those participating in the groups. The artist will lead workshops in advance, culminating in a showcase on June 7th.
NIGHT TIME EVENT
This year's Cruinniú na nÓg will conclude with a spectacular procession up Vinegar Hill, featuring 'The Night Be-
longs to Youth', a collaborative project with Creative Places Enniscorthy. The sunset event on Vinegar Hill will be open to the public and will feature a movement piece led by young people of Enniscorthy to the summit of the hill where the community will gather to connect through song, music and celebration in the magic of summer. The starting point for participants will be Father Cullen Terrace, Templeshannon, June 7th at 7pm.
Cruinniú na nÓg Wexford will take place on Saturday, June 7th. For full details of the events taking place near you visit: https://cruinniu.gov.ie/
An initiative by Creative Ireland, Co-ordinated by Wexford County Council. n
Dead Memories return to Enniscorthy with their crushing new EP "Slamscorthy" live at The Presentation Arts Centre! Joining them on the night will be Purify, Fear Gorta and one more band TBA. Saturday, June 14th. Doors at 6pm. Tickets €10 from https://SLAMSCORTHY.Eventbrite.com n
Acko’s 5th single in five months
On target for 12 singles in 12 months
Honda 50 enthusiasts fundraise for St. Patrick’s School
The Southeast Honda 50 Club – Ireland is organising an event on June 15th 2025 to raise funds for St Patrick's Special School in Enniscorthy.
This is the first time the club has organised such an event in Co. Wexford and it hopes to make it an annual event going forward.
It has a very nice route planned in Co. Wexford which all participants will enjoy. It will start and finish at Mary Jo’s pub, Barntown, check-in at 10am, run starts at 11.30am, and covers 140km.
Refreshments will be served. Cost is €20 per bike.
Please share this information with all Honda 50 bike enthusiasts. n
Free family fun day
A BRILLIANT, FUN DAY IS IN STORE ON SATURDAY 7TH JUNE, WITH FREE ADMISSION...
Everybody is invited to the Enniscorthy and Monart Union of Parishes Summer Fete & Family Fun Day in the Enniscorthy Showgrounds on Saturday 7th June.
There'll be something for all the family with lots of homemade food produce to savour. Expect to see cake and other food stalls, books and toys stalls, bric a brac, hanging tough, afternoon tea, BBQ/burgers, bottle stall, lucky dip, fashion, faceprinting, and children's games and activities.
And the very popular dog show will once again be one of the highlights.
This will be a great value-for-money day with Free admission, lots of Free parking, a huge range of produce on sale at great-value prices, lots of toys for 50c and €1, and childrens' activities for €1/€2 including prizes!
Best wishes with this event to Rev. Nicola Halford and her organising team, some of whom are pictured below. n
Below L-R: Ava Lewis hanging tough!, Anne O’Connor, Cathy Rigley, Robbie Symes, Rev Nicola Halford, Ronan Lewis, Claudia Kidd, Robbie Walsh, and in front Hayley Lewis on dog-minding duty!
Enniscorthy Musical Society receives national recognition
Not one. Not two. BUT THREE AIMS NOMINATIONS!
Enniscorthy Musical Society (EMS) has been nominated for three awards at the Association of Irish Musical Theatre Societies (AIMS) national wards ceremony to be held later this month in Killarney.
EMS in on cloud 9 having been nominated for: Best Visual,
Best Male Singer – Richard O'Toole as Joseph, and the Spirit of AIMS Award for Joseph’s eleven brothers in the show for their comradery, energy and full-on commitment.
Congratulations also to the several other Co. Wexford musicial societies for being nominted also.
What talent we have in our county! n
Pedalling for Pat!
A ‘Pedal for Pat’ fundraiser was held in Enniscorthy on 4th May 2025 in memory of the late Pat Kehoe on the first anniversary of his passing.
Organised by Pat's children Racheal and Dylan Owens, the event brought the community together to raise funds for the Gorey-based charity Futures in Mind
(formerly Talk to Talk). Participants and supporters enjoyed the fun, chatting to each other, pedalling the spinning bikes, the live DJ, refreshments, and raffle.
Futures in Mind (tel: 0818 30 30 61) is a community-based charity focused on suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and bereavement support.
Racheal Owens hopes that events like this will mean suicide becomes less of a taboo subject and allow people to better help each other when struggling. n
Ten Little Plays, an interesting drama development by Enniscorthy Theatre Company, was unveiled recently by Chairman Fintan Kelly and Secretary Nikki Cogley.
All thespians in attendance at the launch in Holohans Pub on Friday 23rd May were asked to put their names forward as writers, directors, actors or all three, to be included in this innovative project that aims to keep theatre alive and well and thriving on the stages of Enniscorthy.
In his welcome address, Chairman Fintan Kelly explained the concept of his latest brainchild. ‘From the list of names submitted on the night Enniscorthy Theatre will choose groups of actors to be assigned to individual writers who are then asked to write a 10-minute play for their particular cast which in turn will be handed over to individual directors to prepare it for staging at The Presentation Arts Centre on 21st/22nd/23rd August.
‘Each writer has a month to write the script, and each director has a month to have it ready for stage.’
A novel concept and full marks to Enniscorthy Theatre Company, and in particular Fintan Kelly, who are always exploring new ways of keeping drama alive, vibrant and relevant in the town.
It is a tall task for writers and directors to be given a cast and asked to write and direct around them, we are far more used to
the reverse with drama groups choosing plays then directors and then casts. Trust Fintan and Enniscorthy Theatre to turn things on their head, but who knows what little gems this project may produce.
There were many questions and speculations as Fintan closed off the evening with a plethora of ‘thank yous’ for all generous sponsors of Enniscorthy theatre, Nikki Cogley for her delectable cheeseboard arrangements, and to Barry Donnelly and Kerry Morrissey for providing the musical entertainment at the event.
Well done Fintan and Enniscorthy Theatre Company, there is no doubt mammoth potential in this ‘outside the box’ thinking as it elevates drama to yet another new level in the town.
The writers, directors, and actors will be aided in their endeavours by writing, directing, and acting workshops that can only augur well for the promotion and enhancement of theatre in Enniscorthy.
So if you would like to try your hand at writing, directing, or acting, do get in touch with Enniscorthy Theatre group asap as the deadline for signing up is Monday, 9th of June. n
All onboard: actors, writers and directors of all levels of experience
The innovative Enniscorthy Theatre Company has put out a recent call for actors, writers, and directors to take part in its new and exciting venture – Ten Little Plays – to hit the Enniscorthy stage in late August. A launch night was held on May 23rd in Holohans Pub, Enniscorthy, where willing participants could chat, hear all about the project, and sign up!
Here’s the lowdown:
• 10 writers, 10 directors, and lots of actors (teens & adults).
• Each writer gets 1 month to write a 10-minute play.
Poetry launch by Eamonn Wall
All were welcomed to The Bailey, Enniscorthy, on 5th June, where Enniscorthy native Eamonn Wall read from his latest book of poetry, My Aunts at Twilight Poker. Refreshments were provided on the night, and copies of the book were on sale. n
Walking trails
Exciting news for Walking Trails in Wexford! Last month Minister Dara Calleary announced further investment in Ireland’s walking trails. As part of this expansion, 22 new trails across 10 counties have been added to the national scheme. Four of these trails are located in Co. Wexford:
• Jean Kennedy Smith Trail, Oulart.
• Ringwood Trail, Kilcarbry.
• Rosslare Cliff Walk, Rosslare Harbour.
• Urrin Loop – part of the River Walk in Enniscorthy. n
• Actors for each play are randomly assigned.
• Directors are chosen at random and given 1 month to rehearse and stage the plays.
• Workshops in acting, writing and directing will be part of the process.
• A wonderful opportunity for all participants to challenge themselves, collaborate and create something amazing!
Enniscorthy Theatre Company – making magic happen since 2023. n
Staff appreciation at Riverside Park Hotel
Park Hotel in Enniscorthy came to gether to celebrate with an evening full of recognition, appreciation, and a delicious BBQ.
length-of-service badges and certificates. Huge congratulations to all the recipients –the hotel is indeed fortunate to have such long-serving members within its ranks.
Jennifer Carton who were presented with engraved plaques for an amazing 20 years of service to the Riverside Park Hotel. n
Presentation to Breda Cash for 20 years of service to the Riverside Park Hotel.
Presentation to Jennifer Carton for 20 years of service to the Riverside Park Hotel.
RECOIL EP ‘IN MIND’ REVIEW
Words by Dorn Simon. Pics by Damien Smullen.
Recoil, the teen garage rock/punk band from Enniscorthy, released their long-awaited EP on May 3rd.
Originally formed in the winter of 2022, their debut gig hit in April 2023 at The Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy.
Since then, they have soared to heights in their short career, gaining not only a strong local following but also a national and international following. Their debut single hit number one on the iTunes chart.
The EP ‘In Mind’ opens with the title track. This elongated riff draws you in nicely, with a rhythmic harmony, that leads to Jack’s (Jack Cloke) bluesy rock voice on this one, harmonising with guitarist/vox Evan Delaney – it builds into a frenzy of guitar riffs that gets your toes tapping and head bouncing as it hints at influences from the 60s and 70s, so well delivered, a perfect opening track.
The EP was expertly produced and mixed by Brendan Carthy of Orchard Recording Studios.
The second track, ‘Mistakes Were Made’ starts melodically, hinting at the range of the young musicians, yet bursts forth into a bolshy punk anthem.
‘Oblivion’ brings the raw rock back to the fore, with mixed elements of the guitar/keyboard-led bands of the hippy scene, yet adding that heavy flavour, with Evan on lead vocals.
‘Let The Boys Be Mean’ brings us into the oi punk vibe, with that raucous simplicity that the bands of the era brought
musically, yet Recoil crosses over punk sounds akin to The Ramones.
The iTunes number one ‘Rip You Out’ comes next with a fullon presence from AJ on keys, the track has become a fan favourite with its authenticity and originality. The EP finishes out with ‘That’s All I Said’, which brings a fullness of sounds perfectly harnessed to sing along to and has that emotional pull with the eighties pop-rock interlaced throughout; this track would be among the likes of film soundtrack greats.
Bear in mind, these boys are young teens, starting as young as 14 upon the band forming, though now the youngest is 16 – the impressive nature of this band is the hard work, dedication, professionalism they bring at such a tender age, always playing and writing/composing, never stopping to broaden their catalog, or skills.
Each member is in more than one band, yet they work equally well by grabbing an instrument to jam with strangers.
The fact remains these boys are the real deal – these lads are already building a pathway to great heights in the music industry, not allowing the pitfalls so often accompanying such early success to stop them or divert their attention from what it is all about – The Music.
Recoil are: Jack Cloke - Vox/Guitars, Evan Delaney - Lead Guitar/Vox, AJ - Keys, Connor Lee - Bass, Andrew KeoghDrums.
Review – Dorn Simon (Into d’Groove) n
CPE OPEN CALL PROJECTS 2025
Nine projects have been awarded funding as a result of the latest Open Call by Creative Places Enniscorthy (CPE).
There are some exciting new projects celebrating local culture and creativity as well as development of projects already started in 2024. These initiatives will bring together artists, community groups, and residents to explore and express the unique culture, heritage and creativity of Enniscorthy.
9 PROJECTS AWARDED GRANTS:
Outrage Entertainment - Emerging Sounds
A monthly music event designed to support young and emerging musicians in Enniscorthy by providing a welcoming, low-pressure performance space. Events will take place at The Presentation Arts Centre, the Enniscorthy Athenaeum, and FDYS Music Box and other venues that foster a welcoming space for both performers and audiences. By keeping performances informal and open to all skill levels, the aim is to develop a vibrant and inclusive music community.
Mayumi Nakabayashi – Threshold Spaces –Enniscorthy Environmental Art Project
Inspired by a Japanese tradition, this project explores boundaries and thresholds through the creation of ‘threshold stones’ with communities and incorporating them into co-creative land art. A development project from the work Mayumi has started with several communities in Enniscorthy, she will build with these communities and continue her rich work with them through her invitation to them to be collaborators with her in the work.
Amy Redmond – People of Scorthy – Audio Visual Portraits
Amy will record sound stories and work with a local Ukrainian film director / photographer Jana Gontar to develop unique audio-visual portraits of 12 “People of Scorthy” old and new.
Mary Doyle / Anne Manning – We’re Allowed in There
This project will create a Clay and Land project. A body of work created by different community groups (intergenerational) based around the history of and contemporary thought of the Turret Rocks site. This project has been inspired by two individual R&D projects – Am I Allowed in Here? – Mary Doyle, and Clay work – Anne Manning, through CPE Open Call 2024. The two artists have come together working across different community groups that they established relationships with last year.
Doulab Circus – Circus Unites
This youth-led contemporary circus project is a development project from Open Call 2024. Doulab continues to bring together young members of the diverse communities that make up Enniscorthy, who may not otherwise connect.
Lucia Kickham – Creative Mother – Where is my voice now?
This series of workshops for mothers will reignite creativity and provide tools to support maternal wellbeing through movement, voice, writing, and visual art, led by local artist / dancer Lucia Kickham.
Justin Codd – Our Town Observations and Voices of Enniscorthy
This project is an exploration of Enniscorthy, combining photography and oral history to create a lasting record of the town’s people, culture, and transformation over time. It aims to document and celebrate the individuals who shape the community, capturing their personal stories, experiences, and reflections.
Enniscorthy Community Allotments with artist Ilaria Berardi – The Oak Tree Project
This project will engage with the community, by creating a mural inspired by Irish biodiversity, a sustainable suncatcher, and a willow dome in the Enniscorthy Community Allotments.
Imogen Stafford / Aoife Banville – Bradán
This is a public art / sculptural project. Three large salmon sculptural pieces composed of mesh and light will be placed / suspended across the old bridge. They will be lightweight and ethereal and subtle in movement. The pieces will be made in collaboration with Enniscorthy community through a series of workshops.
Deryn O Callaghan, CPE Co-ordinator, says: “The Open Call 2025 panel had an incredibly difficult task to choose the projects for this year. The nine projects awarded are diverse and community centred. I’m looking forward to continuing work with some of the artists and communities who have already engaged with CPE and starting anew to work alongside and with the freshly awarded projects.“
For more information about Creative Places Enniscorthy: Contact Deryn O Callaghan
Left and right: CPE funded projects from 2024.
Wexford Arts Centre is pleased to present Sync Shift, an exhibition of new drawings by artist Órla Bates in collaboration with Joanna Leah and curated by Ann Mulrooney.
The exhibition will run in the lower and upper galleries from Saturday, 14th June, to Saturday, 26th July.
Exhibition Opening: Saturday 14th June at 2pm. n
Timelines: Growth and Catastrophe
Featuring work by Muriel Beckett, Tish Canniffe, Frances Crowe, Pascale De Coninck, Lorna Donlon, Terry Dunne, Catherine Ryan, and Heather Underwood.
At Wexford County Council, Carricklawn Wexford, Y35 WY93, from 30th May to Friday, 11th July, 2025.
Wexford County Council Arts Department is excited to present Timelines: Growth and Catastrophe, a touring exhibition of fibre art which launched in 2024 as part of Culture Night celebrations at Roscommon Arts Centre. This captivating exhibition, which has toured nationwide, showcases the third collaborative work from the Timelines Tapestry Group, a talented collective of weavers and tapestry artists. It will run at Wexford County Council from Friday, 30th May to Friday, 11th July, 2025.
The centrepiece of the exhibition is a breath-taking 5-metre by 1-metre handwoven tapestry, created collaboratively by eight distinguished artists: Muriel Beckett, Tish Canniffe, Frances Crowe, Pascale De Coninck, Lorna Donlon, Terry Dunne, Catherine Ryan, and Heather Underwood. In addition to the large-scale tapestry, the exhibition features individual works by each of the artists, offering a deeper exploration of their personal artistic expressions.
Inspired by the delicate balance of opposing forces in life, Timelines: Growth and Catastrophe reflects the profound experiences we have all encountered over recent years. The art-
ists weave a narrative that juxtaposes the renewal and resilience of nature with the devastation of war and the darkness of the global pandemic. The tapestry serves as a metaphor for the tension between growth, renewal, and catastrophe, capturing the beauty and fragility of life. As nature regenerates in the aftermath of destruction and provides solace during lockdowns, the artists have infused hope into the intricate fibres of their work.
The making of the major centrepiece tapestry and accompanying film was generously supported by Creative Ireland Programmes of Wexford County Council, Roscommon County Council, Cork City Council, Cork County Council, and Laois County Council. This exhibition is a testament to the power of creative collaboration. Each artist brings their unique expertise and personal history to the collective project. n
The eight artists.
The eight artists at work.
c r e a t i v i t y, a n d c o n n e c t i o n
L-R: Deryn O'Callaghan Co-ordinator at Creative Places Enniscorthy; Liz Burns, Arts Officer at Wexford County Council; Adam Stead, SETU Assistant Lecturer in Fine Arts and PhD student; Dr Janette Davies, Deputy Head of Campus (Wexford); Prof. Veronica Campbell, President of SETU; Elizabeth Whyte, CEO of Wexford Arts Centre; Brian Garvey, SETU Lecturer in Art and Design; and Kathryn Kiely, SETU Vice President for External Affairs, pictured at Wexford Arts Centre for the first of SETU’s Foundation Day 2025 events. Pic: Patrick Browne, Brownes Photography.
South East Technological University (SETU) marked its third anniversary with a celebration of community, creativity, and connection at Wexford Arts Centre on Thursday, 22 May 2025.
The event was part of SETU’s annual Foundation Day series and brought together the University’s staff, students, and wider regional community under the theme ‘Connecting Our Communities’.
Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, reflected on the University’s journey since it was established on 1 May 2022, highlighting the many exciting achievements of the University’s staff and students across departments and faculties.
“I’m delighted to be here at the first of three Foundation Day events to celebrate SETU’s mission to serve as a catalyst for inclusion, collaboration, and transformation across the southeast,” said Prof. Campbell.
She highlighted the special significance of the University’s impact in connecting communities through art via the staff and students at its Wexford campus, saying, “SETU’s campus in Wexford has a rich arts heritage. The calibre of students and staff that create, inspire, and develop socially impactful art projects is remarkable. This is all made possible through our arts programmes at the campus that foster talent and act as an incubator for creativity. Connecting through art opens new opportunities of expression from diverse voices, articulating a
cohesive and shared vision for the southeast region.”.
The Wexford event featured a keynote address from Elizabeth Whyte, Chief Executive of Wexford Arts Centre and alumna of SETU. In her keynote speech, ‘Connecting our Communities through Art’, Elizabeth emphasised the role of the arts in fostering social inclusion. Her speech demonstrated the enormous impact of Wexford Arts Centre through its community-focused arts programming across its 51 years in operation. She also acknowledged the strength of the Centre’s partnership with SETU, in existence since 2007, that allows for collaborative engagement with diverse audiences.
A dynamic panel discussion followed, chaired by Dr Janette Davies, Deputy Head of Campus (Wexford). The panel featured: Liz Burns, Arts Officer at Wexford County Council; Deryn O’Callaghan, Co-ordinator at Creative Places Enniscorthy; Adam Stead SETU Assistant Lecturer in Fine Arts and PhD student; Brian Garvey, SETU lecturer in Art and Design, and Elizabeth Doran Burke, a final-year student in Visual Communications and Design. Together, they explored how creative collaboration enhances community wellbeing and engagement.
Guests also viewed the Social Canvas Project 2025, a collaborative exhibition by SETU students in partnership with Creative Places Enniscorthy, showcasing art as a vehicle for community expression and dialogue. n
Presentation Arts Centre in Enniscorthy hosts new exhibition
Lar Joyce and John Cullen’s Comharsana art exhibition is now running at The Presentation Arts Centre until 12th July 2025.
Lar Joyce is a self-taught artist based in Wexford. His artwork is significantly influenced by his youth in the countryside, where nature and animals became his main sources of inspiration. This keen focus continues to this day, and through oil and charcoal he celebrates the landscapes and wildlife of Co. Wexford and beyond.
John Cullen is a full-time artist. His oil paintings on display in this exhibition are a selection of pieces from his 'A Place To Play' series. With these paintings, John highlights the visual interest of sports fields and arenas – from the perspective of their boundaries – and how they become key markers on the landscape as beacons of community excellence and the pursuit of excellence. n
Strong impact by Creative Places Enniscorthy
SOME NUMBERS..
REPORT
Enjoyment and Creative Engagement
Sense of Community
Artists peer network being supported and strengthened
Wexford Public Libraries Social Media: Wexford Public Libraries on Facebook. Wexford Public Libraries on Instagram @wexfordlibraries.
Wexford Public Libraries on Twitter @wexlibraries.
YouTube: "Wexford Public Libraries" n
Enniscorthy Library
Slaney Writers
The group meets in Enniscorthy Library on the second Thursday of every month at 6.30pm. Next meeting is on Thursday, 12th June at 6.30pm. New members are always welcome.
Enniscorthy Library Adult Book Club
This club meets on the third Thursday of the month at 6.30pm and is free to join. Book clubs are a great way to meet others and discuss books. New members are always welcome.
If you would like more information, contact the library on 053 9236055. n
ooted in exford
In May, we got stuck into the satisfying business of carrots, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage – three vegetables that quietly remind us that growing things can be both simple and rewarding if you give them the right start. From clearing stones for straight carrots to sowing Brussels sprouts with a touch of patience, there was a gentle rhythm to it all. Cabbage, ever the dependable garden veg, rounded things off with the kind of hearty presence that never goes out of style. It was a month about preparation, structure, and letting the garden settle into its early summer rhythm.
Now that June is here and the days stretch long into the evening, there’s this feeling that everything is ready to take off. The soil is warm underfoot, the bees are back in the swing of things, and we gardeners –well we get to roll up our sleeves and get properly stuck in. This month I’ve been thinking about crops that carry a bit of character – purple sprouting broccoli, dwarf sweet corn, and courgettes. Each of them has a slightly different pace and personality and honestly
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.
they’ve taught me a few things not just about gardening but about timing, observation, and how to be okay with the unexpected.
Purple sprouting broccoli is a bit of a long-game veg. It’s not flashy and you won’t get much return in the summer but it rewards those of us who like to think ahead. Sowing it in June means you’re setting yourself up for a colourful and satisfying harvest next spring right when the garden tends to look a little grey and tired. Choose a sunny patch, toss in some compost, and space the plants well so they’ve got room to breathe. It’s not about rushing, it’s about planting something now that your future self will thank you for. It’s also a quiet nudge to appreciate slow growth – the kind you don’t notice until it surprises you months later.
Sweet corn on the other hand brings a bit of ambition to the mix. You need the right conditions and a good dose of optimism but when it works it really works. I’m trying some dwarf varieties, as well as the normal varieties, this year not just because they’re cute
though, they are, but because they mature quicker and seem to cope better with our hit or miss summers. Corn prefers company so planting it in little blocks instead of lonely rows gives it the best chance to pollinate properly. You’ll want to water it regularly and give it a good feed when it starts to stretch tall. If all goes to plan you’ll be peeling back silky husks and munching sweet juicy kernels by the end of August, and trust me there’s nothing quite like that first bite of corn you grew yourself.
Courgettes are the wildcard of the trio. If you’ve grown them before you’ll know they don’t do anything by halves. One minute they’re little leafy things the next you’re harvesting three a day and wondering if your neighbours would like a few, spoiler... they would. They’re straightforward though, give them a sunny, compost-rich spot and off they go. I like to pick mine young before they turn into monsters. The flavour is better, the texture is firmer, and the plant is happier when it doesn’t feel overwhelmed. Plus there’s a small joy in wandering out each morning, coffee in hand, and
spotting a shiny new courgette ready for picking.
So here we are in June, a month that feels like an open invitation to try new things in the garden. It’s warm enough to plant freely but early enough to still think ahead. There’s something lovely about that balance about being in the middle of the growing season but still making decisions that shape the weeks and months to come. Whether you’re planting with purpose or simply having a go, there’s space for both. If you’re curious to see how these crops are coming along in my own garden along with a few unplanned surprises I’d love for you to follow along on Instagram @rootedinwexford.
Wishing you a joyful, fruitful June. Happy gardening! n
The annual weekend of food, fun, and entertainment at The Village at Wheelocks returns on weekend of 5th and 6th July 2025. If you are a vendor who would like to be involved, contact wexfordstrawberryweekend@gmail.com n
Minister pays visit to major Enniscorthy fruit grower
Minister of State at the Dept of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with Special Responsibility for Forestry, Horticulture and Farm Safety, Minister Michael Healy-Rae TD paid a visit last month to the farm of Jimmy and Susan Kearns in Curragraigue, Enniscorthy.
Kearns Fruit Farm was the winner of the best fruit producer category in The Good Food Ireland awards in 2024.
Jimmy and Susan were delighted to show Minister HealyRae what is involved in a major fruit-growing business. n
PAUL KEHOE APPOINTED CHAIRPERSON OF WEXFORD FOOD PRODUCERS NETWORK
The Board of Directors of The Wexford Food Producers Network have announced the appointment of new Chairperson Paul Kehoe. In 2024 Paul Kehoe announced that he would not contest the next general election and subsequently retired from public office after a twenty-two-year career representing the Wexford constituency.
The Wexford Food Producers Network is a member representative and memberled body for Wexford’s food and beverage production sector. With approximately fifty members ranging from sole traders, micro enterprises, small and medium enterprises, to large exporters, their remit is to support the growth and development of Wexford’s food production sector. The organisation supports Wexford food producers to build a sustainable food industry which provides employment and contributes significantly to the Irish economy on a local, regional, and national level.
The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG is a non-for-profit organisation that is recognised and supported by Wexford County Council, Wexford Local Enterprise Office, and Wexford Local Development. The organisation engages with national agencies – Bord Bia, Bord Iascaigh Mhara, and Ornua – The Irish Dairy Board on the
issues that are critical to assisting their members’ businesses to grow.
The food production sector in Wexford is one of the largest per county in Ireland. In 2024 the Food, Drink & Primary Production sector accounted for 40% of all export sales by Irish-owned companies, directly supporting 165,000 jobs, or 6.5% of total employment, predominantly in
Tackling Ireland’s Food waste
Food waste is a global problem that has environmental, social and economic consequences.
More than one quarter of the food produced globally is wasted. It is a significant contributor to climate change, as food loss and waste contribute to 8-10% of greenhouse gas emissions. Growing, processing and transporting food all use significant amounts of resources such as land, water and energy.
The Irish Government has committed to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030, which is in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Check out: https://www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring—assessment/waste/national-waste-statistics/food/ n
rural and coastal communities. This significant domestic economic footprint, including its export profile, reflects the natural comparative advantages of Irish production and a long agricultural tradition.
Paul Kehoe has led a distinguished career in Irish public service spanning twenty-two years as a TD for the Wexford constituency from 2002 - 2024. He served as Minister of State at the Department of Defence from 2011 to 2020 and Government Chief Whip from 2011 to 2016. He was appointed Chair of the Committee on Education, Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science in September 2020.
Originally hailing from Bree, Paul Kehoe is a proud Wexford man who comes from both an agricultural and political background. He attended Kildalton Agricultural College, Co. Kilkenny, and remains active in the farming community to this day.
Paul Kehoe has expressed his wish to contribute to the future development of Wexford's food production sector and he will be actively engaged in the future strategic development of the organisation going forward. He is looking forward to taking up the role to represent this important sector for Wexford. n
Coming into bloom
Visitors to Bloom in the Phoenix Park last month were able to meet over 100 of Ireland’s top food and craft drink producers at the Food Village, including three businesses flying the flag for Co. Wexford: Killowen Farm from Enniscorthy, a family business producing Yogurt and Cream Cheese using milk from their own cows.
New Ross-based Wexford Home Preserves, which makes traditional jams, marmalades, and relishes since 1988.
O'Neills Dry Cure Bacon Co, located in Enniscorthy, producers of dry cured bacon products for the retail and food service markets nationwide. n
Paul Kehoe is the new Chairperson of The Wexford Food Producers Network. Pic: Mary Browne.
Lots on at the Enniscorthy
We are grateful as always to Gillian O’Neill, Secretary at Enniscorthy Community Allotments (ECA), for keeping us updated with all the news and photos from the multi-award-winning facility in Enniscorthy...
May was another great month in the allotments. We had a lovely get together for our Madhatters Tea Party, it was great to see so many of our members up enjoying themselves. Well done to Graham from WRID’s group who won the prize for the best hat on the day. The kids all really enjoyed face painting and decorating a May bush, it was a fantastic afternoon.
We were absolutely delighted to win not one but two awards at the Enniscorthy Cli-
mate Champion awards last month hosted by Wexford County Council. Our first prize was for winning best community in the climate champions group and the second prize was for the overall winner of all 19 groups taking part in the competition. The awards are beautiful – they are made from solid oak floorboards. We also received goodie bags of sustainably sourced thermal mugs/flasks and cool bags. We really enjoyed taking part in this competition, we all learned a lot
Thin out vegetables that have been sown directly.
Keep raised beds well watered and feed plants with a liquid fertiliser.
Keep an eye on thirsty plants including pumpkins, squash, courgettes, and tomatoes and ensure they are keep moist.
Continue to sow vegetables for a late Autumn harvest, you still have time to sow lettuce, cabbage, peas, and beans. You can also sow broccoli, beetroot, carrots, and parsnips.
Keep weeding regularly.
Open greenhouse door during the day to keep ventilated.
about the little things we can do every day to reduce our carbon footprint.
We were delighted to get the Reach grant again this year. We are running two courses at the moment, introductory horticulture and introductory willow weaving, and we have the following courses scheduled during the summer:
Gardening Tips...
You can remove the side shoots on your tomatoes to reduce the number of flowering stems. Also begin liquid feed once flowers emerge. n
Another Introductory Willow Weaving starting on Tuesday 8th July from 7pm to 9pm for 6 weeks.
Introductory Herbalism starting Wednesday 23rd July 7pm to 9pm for 6 weeks.
Advanced Herbalism starting Thursday 24th July 7pm to 9pm for 6 weeks.
Nature Therapy starting Thursday 7th August 7pm to 9pm for 8 weeks.
Keep an eye on our socials to see when we are taking bookings for these courses.
The 8-weeks Mindfulness course with the fabulous Hilary Conor finished the end of last month, everyone thoroughly enjoyed it. We got great feedback from this course. We have our new pedestrian gates installed now in the allotments thanks to the Solar Wind Farm Community Fund and they are proving another great addition to our allotments.
The mosaic floor in the Dome is nearly completed finally and it looks absolutely amazing. We look forward to getting back using
it for our courses and to having it open daily for our members to avail of the beautiful holistic space.
We are very excited here in the allotments to be starting our Oak Tree project thanks to the Creative Places grant. We will be getting a mural on the back of the shed, we will have a willow dome beside the oak tree and will have a couple of pathways and seating around the oak tree and a wildflower area. It will be another fabulous addition to our beautiful allotments upon completion.
We also held a composting workshop last month with the amazing Craig Benton known as Dr. Compost. We all thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a very informative workshop, we got loads of information on how to produce compost using a 3-bay system, a tumbler and a wormery. We all left the workshop a lot more confident to start producing our own compost at home, the amazing thing is you don’t need a lot of space to do it. Thanks to Cliona Connolly, Wexford County Council, for supporting this workshop. n
All photos on this page: The composting workshop at Enniscorthy Community Allotments.
WEXFORD BUSINESS COMPETES AT NATIONAL ENTERPRISE FINAL
Mór Taste creates Ireland’s fruitiest jams, reinventing the jam-making process to lock in the full flavour of more whole fruit while reducing sugar by up to 70%. Their multi-award-winning, better-for-you spreads have been transforming the sweet spreads category since 2023 and are now stocked in all major Irish retailers. Website: www.mortaste.ie
A food industry from Killinick, Wexford, competed recently with the country’s best small businesses as one of the Finalists for the National Enterprise Awards. Mór Taste represented Local Enterprise Office Wexford at the prestigious awards which took place on 22nd May in the Round Room at the Mansion House in Dublin.
Mór Taste creates healthier, great-tasting products that make better eating easier. Launched in 2023, their lowsugar jams contain up to 70% less sugar than regular jams and are the only jams in Ireland that are high in fibre and low in calories. Made with real fruit, they’ve earned top awards including a Blas na hÉireann Gold and four Great Taste Stars. Mór Taste also offers healthier spreads, like its Hazelnut & Chocolate spread with just two ingredients – hazelnuts and real chocolate. All products exceed food reformulation targets, helping consumers reduce sugar without giving up flavour.
Felix Oster, founder of Mór Taste, says: “Being chosen to represent Wexford at the National Enterprise Awards is a huge honour. Mór Taste began with a simple but challenging mission: to make everyday foods healthier without compromising on flavour. The support we have received has been incredible, and this recognition reflects both the passion driving our brand and products and the growing appetite for better food choices across Ireland.”
This is the 25th year of the Local Enterprise Office initiative which was won last year by DreamDev Technologies, supported by Local Enterprise Office Kildare.
Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development, Wexford County Council: “The National Enterprise Awards serve to highlight the very best businesses that the Local Enterprise Offices are working with across the country. The diversity of sectors and innovation shown again this year is outstanding and the winners will no doubt produce businesses destined for international success. These businesses have excelled in their areas and have the potential to follow in the footsteps of previous winners to become successful global companies.
“We were delighted to have Mór Taste represent Wexford at the National Enterprise Awards. These awards are a vital platform to showcase the innovation and talent emerging from local enterprises across Ireland, and Mór Taste is a shining example of that. Felix and his team have made a real impact – not just through their award-winning, healthier
products, but also by contributing to the growing reputation of Wexford as a hub for ambitious, forward-thinking businesses.”
Previous winners of the National Enterprise Awards include the likes of Irish Yoghurts (1998), Obelisk (2000), Simtech Aviation (2008), Digiweb (2004), Design Pro (2013), Terra NutriTech (2018), Pestle & Mortar (2019), Bevcraft (2021), Aqualicence (2022) and Advanced Cosmetics in 2023.
The National Enterprise Awards are one of a number of initiatives that the Local Enterprise Offices run to foster entrepreneurship across the country. Others include Local Enterprise Week, the Student Enterprise Programme, National Women’s Enterprise Day, and Local Enterprise Showcase. The Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities are funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland.
Established in 2014, the Local Enterprise Offices are the essential resource for any entrepreneur looking to start a business or any small business that is looking for support or advice to help them grow. Since their inception eleven years ago, the Local Enterprise Offices have helped create over 75,000 jobs across the country. The LEOs work with thousands of client companies across Ireland in a diverse range of sectors offering mentoring, training, expert advice, and financial supports to small businesses.
Are you ready to take your new product or service to new markets? Then get ready for take off with the new Market Explorer Grant. Providing a grant of up to €10,000 for market research, in-market consultancy and industry events, this can help bring your business to new heights! For more information contact one of the Local Enterprise Office Wexford team today: Annette Rowsome or Jill Kelleher, or visit LEO’s website for more information: https://www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford/ n
Worried about new tariffs?
Here’s How LEO Wexford Can Help Your Business
Uncertain about how new tariffs will impact your small business? Your Local Enterprise Office Wexford is here to support you with expert advice and tailored programmes to help you navigate these challenges. ✅ Get Exporting – Learn how to successfully export your goods and services. ✅ Market Explorer Grant – Funding to help you explore and expand into new markets. ✅ Export Business Advisor – Get one-on-one guidance from an expert in international trade.
Local Enterprise Office Wexford is there to help your business thrive. Email: info@leo.wexfordcoco.ie. Tel: 053 9196020. n
Wexford delegation strengthens economic and strategic ties in US visit to Savannah and Atlanta
Wexford County Council delegates returned recently from a successful visit to Savannah and Atlanta, Georgia, paving the way for further significant economic, educational and cultural development opportunities for County Wexford.
Led by An Cathaoirleach Cllr Pip Breen and comprising Municipal District representatives, senior council officials and enterprise leaders, the visit built on the long-standing sister-city agreement with Savannah and explored new trade and investment opportunities in Atlanta. The visit sought to deepen economic linkages, develop strategic partnerships, and promote educational and cultural exchange with key institutions in both regions.
Economic and Infrastructure Development
A highlight of the visit was the delegation’s strategic engagement with the Georgia Ports Authority. This knowledge-sharing partnership is expected to drive innovation, knowledge exchange, and infrastructure development critical to the South East region of Ireland. Wexford Enterprise Association joined Wexford County Council at a business forum with Tradebridge partners Savannah Economic Development Authority. Through engagements with Enterprise Ireland, the IDA, and the Consulate office and business organisations, the delegation promoted Wexford as a prime location for trade, investment, research and innovation. Further strengthening trade ties, the delegation explored opportunities to expand the Tradebridge programme, originally developed between the South East of Ireland and 16 counties in South East Georgia into the greater Atlanta region.
Educational and Cultural Exchange
The delegation were guests of honour at the Georgia Southern University Statesboro Campus launch of the Wexford HUB at the Henderson Library which is a designated key location space at the university of 26,000 students, building on the intake programme of students coming to Wexford. To date the successful relationship has seen over 300 students attending the Georgia Southern International Learning Campus in Wexford. In addition, discussions took place on further developing the iconic adoration convent in Wexford which will see over €6 million investment in new student accommodation.
High Level Political and Civic Engagement
The delegation’s presence at the Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade, attended by over 800,000 people, showcased Wexford on an international stage with the Cathaoirleach conducting TV and media interviews about collaboration between our two regions.
In Atlanta, An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Pip Breen, addressed the Georgia House of Representatives and was honoured with a proclamation from Speaker of the House, Jon Burns, reinforcing strong diplomatic ties and recognising County Wexford’s contribution to international partnership and cultural diplomacy.
Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe commented, “The relationships built during this visit will contribute directly to job creation, infrastructure advancement, educational exchange, and the global promotion of Wexford as a dynamic, future-focused county.” n
Wexford Bus – free Fleadh travel
Wexford Bus has been named as the Official Travel Partner for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025. To celebrate this partnership, Wexford Bus will offer journeys free of charge on the Wexford Bus Connect Town Services (Routes WX1 and WX2) throughout the Fleadh. Additionally, the Wexford Bus timetables will be extended to include extra nighttime services to facilitate all those attending the event.
Brendan Crowley, Managing Director of Wexford Bus, commented: “As a proud Wexford company we are thrilled to welcome Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann back to Wexford for another year. We are excited to be bringing visitors to our beautiful town and county for this incredible event and are confident that the people of Wexford will once again extend a warm welcome. We are delighted that the Fleadh is committed to encouraging visitors to use public transport to travel to and within Wexford. In support of this, we are inviting visitors and locals to travel on our services within Wexford town, namely Route WX1 and WX2, free of charge for the duration of the Fleadh.”
“Last year we carried a record number of passengers to Wexford for the Fleadh from Dublin, Gorey, Enniscorthy, Waterford and Carlow as well as on our local routes and hope to carry a similar volume of passengers this year. By booking in advance passengers were guaranteed a seat at the time they wished to travel, and we could plan our services and add additional resources when required. We encourage all intending passengers to book in advance again this year,” continued Brendan.
Eddie Taaffe, CEO of Wexford County Council commented:
“We are delighted that Wexford Bus is offering free travel to all passengers on the Wexford Bus Local Town Services (Route WX1 and WX2) during the Fleadh and hope it will encourage people to leave their cars at home. This is another example of the warm Wexford welcome that is being extended to visitors, and I would like to thank Wexford Bus for their generous contribution.”
For more information please visit www.wexfordbus.com and www.fleadhcheoil.ie n
Unlock Government Support to Grow Your Business.
Starting or expanding your business? Discover the new National Enterprise Hub (NEH), designed to simplify access to government resources. The NEH provides a single platform for over 250 supports from 30 government bodies.
The website features a user-friendly search tool to connect you with the grants, funding, training, and expert advice you need. Plus, a dedicated Hub team is ready to provide personalised assistance. Visit: www.neh.gov.ie or call (01) 727 2100.
Proudly supported by the Government of Ireland. n
Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, and Brendan Crowley, Managing Director of Wexford Bus.
The top businesses across County Wexford battled it out in this year’s County Wexford Business Awards at the Gala Night in Whites of Wexford Hotel on May 23rd.
The winners were announced at the black-tie gala awards ceremony with over 450 guests in attendance at the stylish awards ceremony dinner.
The event was hosted by author, broadcaster, comedian and MC Colm O’Regan, with music provided by Divine Invention. n
L-R: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Malachy McGlynn, Head of Operations Kersia Group sponsor, Regina O'Connor skin clinic, winner Solopreneur of the Year, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Photo: Patrick Browne.
County Wexford Chamber of Commerce awards in White's Hotel, Wexford. Photo: Patrick Browne.
L-R: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Mayor Catherine Walsh, Anneliese Duffy and Denis Molloy from Fashion Connect Ireland, winner of Start Up Business of the Year, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Photo: Patrick Browne.
Above left: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Ailsing O'Connor, Co. Wexford Skillnet sponsor, Robert Millar and Jane Cahill from Talbot Hotel winner of Excellence in Workforce Development, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Above right: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Joanne Somers, Managing Director of Johnsons Celtic Linen sponsor, Ann Marie Kennedy from Dunbrody Famine ship winner of Employee of the year, Sean Furlong, Chairperson Dunbrody Ship, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Photos: Patrick Browne.
Above left: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, David Mooney from Mooney Furniture & Design winner of Business of the year (2-50 employees), Deirdre Hannon from Danone sponsor, Valerie Carthy from Mooney Furniture & Design, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Above right: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Kim Dunphy from Integer winner of Business of the year (50+ employees), Melissa Fenlon from PWC sponsor, John Mehigan from Integer, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Photos: Patrick Browne
Above left: Willie Fitzharris, County Wexford Chamber Director, Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Aisling Whelan from F&M Whelan Engineering winner of Family Business of the Year, Pat Bevin, Managing Director of Raynaers Aluminium sponsor, Francis and Kevin Whelan from F&M Whelan Engineering, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Above right: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Brendan Crowley of Wexford Bus winner of Excellence in Customer Experience, Cormac Pettitt, Managing Director of Pettitt’s Supervalue sponsor, Mark Kinsella, Wexford Bus, Paula Roche Chamber, CEO. Below left: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Caoimhe Connick from Johnstown Castle winner of Excellence in Culture, Heritage & Tourism, Sarah Fitzpatrick, Ireland's Ancient East sponsor, Jess Sinnott from Johnstown Castle, Orla Delaney from Failte Ireland, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Below right: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Leanne Ryan from Mary Barry's restaurant winner of Hospitality Provider of the Year, PJ Banville from Wexford People sponsor, Susie Doyle from Mary Barry's, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Photos: Patrick Browne.
Top left: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Arnaud Clopin and Aine Kavanagh from Domaine Kavanagh Genevrier winner of Excellence in Agri, Food & Beverage Production, James Byrne from Irish Country Meats sponsor, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Top right: Amy Pettitt from Wexford Bus winner of Operational Excellence & Innovation award, Michael Holton from Kent Stainless sponsor, Brendan Crowley from Wexford Bus, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Above left: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Chloe Hilditch from Holos Skincare winner of Digital Commerce Excellence award, John Mehigan from Integer sponsor, Ewa Winkel from Holos Skincare, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Above right: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Shona Byrne from NMB Architects winner of International Business award, Glenn Carr from Rosslare Europort sponsor, Niall Byrne from NMB Architects, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Below left: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Natalie Keane from Bean and Goose Chocolate winner of Sustainability Initiative award, Olive Power from Zurich Insurance sponsor, Karen Keane from Bean and Goose Chocolate, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Below right: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Roisin O'Sullivan from Cumas joint winners Equity, Diversity & Inclusion award, Tadhg Cassidy from Waters Technology sponsor, Colin Maher and Sinead Foskin from Cumas, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Bottom left: Conor Robinson, Chamber President, Anita Furlong and John Dreelan from New Ross Credit Union winners Trailblazer award, Mark Browne, General Manager of Monart Destination Spa sponsor, Aoife Crowe from New Ross Credit Union, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Bottom right: Conor Robinson Chamber President, Jackie from WWETB joint winners Equity, Diversity & Inclusion award, Tadhg Cassidy from Waters Technology sponsor, Joanne Power from WWETB, Paula Roche, Chamber CEO. Photos: Patrick Browne.
County Wexford Chamber nominated for national awards
County Wexford Chamber has been shortlisted in FOUR categories at the Chambers Ireland Awards 2025.
➤ Event of the Year: Political Leaders Summit.
➤ Digital Campaign: County Wexford Shop Local Gift Card initiative.
➤ Support Business: Integration of Enniscorthy & District Chamber.
➤ Sustainability & Biodiversity: Sustainability Clusters collaboration with GreenTech HQ.
These nominations are a testament to the creativity, commitment, and hard work of the team, board, members, and corporate partners. n
County Wexford Chamber of Commerce awards in White's Hotel. Michael Mahon from MGM Partnership winner of Professional Services Provider of the Year receiving the award from Chris Parle from Midland Tyres sponsor. Photo: Patrick Browne.
Michael Mahon from MGM Partnership winner of Overall Business of the Year receives his award from Gerald Reynolds from BD Enniscorthy sponsor. Photo: Patrick Browne.
Co. Council Dog Shelter / Kennels
Pets First operates a dog kennels in Tomanoole, Ballycarney, Enniscorthy, on behalf of Wexford County Council. For dogs being reclaimed, the owner must pay the fine for the dog being loose and any other pound costs. The contact number is 053 93 88339.
The dog warden is John Colfer who may be contacted at 087 6293043. The Dog Warden can seize dogs not under control in a public place and have them impounded. There is a fee of €50 for the surrender of unwanted dogs to the dog warden.
Control of Dogs:
All owners must ensure their dogs are: Licensed and under control when in public (on a lead). Have an identity tag with contact details for their owner on their collar. Certain dogs must be muzzled and on a strong chain when in public. Clean up after the dog if it fouls in a public place and dispose of the deposit in a bin.
Fines of €100 for minor breaches of the Act apply but fines of up to €2,500 may apply if the on-the-spot fine is not paid or for more serious breaches of the Control of Dogs Act. Remember, dogs can be a killers around sheep so keep them under control. n
Dog Rehoming
Wexford County Council and Pets First's new, dedicated website makes the process of re-homing dogs much simpler. Visit: https://wexfordrehoming.ie/ and see for yourself. n
South East Animal Rescue
South East Animal Rescue rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes animals in the South East of Ireland. Their fundraising shop at 27 Court St, Enniscorthy, always has lots of bargains available.
Email: southeastanimalrescue@gmail.com
Keep up to date on their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064583773930 n
The Moyne Veterinary Hospital sponsored a seminar in the Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy recently on Regenerative Farming and talks in Enniscorthy Castle on various subjects from the microbiome to bees to farmers working with Nature.
It was a fascinating few days of people from various walks of life, farmers, artists, scientists, authors... an eclectic mix of voices that spoke a common theme... our journey back to healthy food while respecting Nature.
As farming has become scaled up, big farms getting bigger, be it dairy or tillage, by its nature it becomes more industrialised. It is harder to work at scale and be working with Nature but there are a growing number of farmers who are looking at how they have been farming using heavy chemical inputs and now reducing these harsh and sometimes unnecessary fertilisers and chemicals or eliminating them all together. It takes time, it takes knowledge, and most of all it takes courage. Stepping out of the norm always seems a risky thing and isn't easy but the rewards are huge.
You can see these new band of brothers have a passion for what they are doing, they have rediscovered their mojo and their passion for farming. Farming with Nature is what was done by our forefathers for centuries and we are just coming the full circle. It’s a win win. The land slowly improves productivity, increases biodiversity returns and it becomes a synergistic relationship with Mother Nature. The soil health improves making a healthier plant, in turn healthier animals, and ultimately a much more nutritious product for us to eat.
with Joe Kavanagh of the Moyne Veterinary Hospital
We often hear of the protein, carbohydrate and fat levels of food but very seldom of the nutrient value. On these regenerative farms, especially in the US, they have researched the end products arriving onto our shelves and the nutrient density is off the charts from these regenerative farms as opposed to industrialised farming and feedlot situations.
As a consumer, supporting these new breed of farmers is imperative. Healthier food is a healthier nation. One of the speakers was Dr Verner Wheelock, born and bred in Enniscorthy, but who has spent the large part of his life in research in the UK. He has written a book called 'Healthy Eating, the Big Mistake’ and has just published his second edition of it. He spoke of the detrimental effects of seed oils, all the common cooking oils that we have in our kitchens and of the damage they are doing to our lives and society. We used to cook with lard and this became shunned upon but Dr Verner explained the science behind his thinking of how we need to get rid of all these seed oils and get back to cooking with natural oils, butter, ghee coconut oil, NOT industrially produced seed oils like palm oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, that we were told was better for us. These seed oils can be laden with toxins and are best avoided. In short, anything that is deep fried is not good for anyone.
The series of talks were well attended, informative, and herald a new dawn of farmers, scientists, and the general public working together for a brighter and more synergistic future with Mother Nature. We are delighted to be part of this movement, this brave new dawn. n
If you have a topic you’d like Joe Kavanagh to address please email Slaney News at: slaneynews@gmail.com
OPENING HOURS (6 DAYS A WEEK):
9.00am–1.00pm and 2.00pm–6.00pm
Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment):
The Hyundai Inster has been grabbing headlines all over the place and for good reason: it's one of the most affordable small electric cars now on sale, starting from just €18,995.
That will get you a 42kWh battery with up to 327 kilometres of range (WLTP). There's also a larger 49kWh battery available with up to 360 kilometres, priced from €22,495.
While it's designed as a city car, the Inster can do so much more. The decent sized batteries mean it's comfortable to take it out of town on longer trips. It can be charged at home, but can also use fast chargers at rates up to 85kW for a 10-80% charge in as little as 30 minutes.
It's a small car but Hyundai has designed the Inster incredibly well to be practical and versatile. The boot is a modest size, but the rear seats can be let down easily to create a bit more space. Opt for the Elegance trim and the rear seats can even slide forward and back to increase boot space to over 300 litres! Even the front seats can be folded completely flat.
Not to mention the quirky design that gives it mini-SUV vibes. Alloy wheels come as standard across the range and Elegance models add chunky roof rails.
Inside, it feels very solidly built with no squeaks or rattles. It's a narrow car but it's easy to get comfortable behind the wheel, with adjustment in the driver's seat and steering wheel. There's loads of standard equipment including a full digital driver display and a touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There's even a stack of real buttons underneath to adjust things like the climate control and heated seats, which are far more practical to use than a touchscreen. Other standard features include a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, parking camera, keyless entry and manual air conditioning. Elegance models also feature a wireless smartphone charging pad.
Worth noting, the Inster is a strict four-seater. But for those passengers, there's a surprising amount of legroom for such a small car.
The Inster drives very well. It's great for driving around town but things don't fall apart when you get out on to bigger roads. It's comfortable for such a small thing and very quiet inside, even at motorway speeds. The Elegance with the larger battery uses a slightly more powerful 115hp motor sending power to the front wheels. 0-100km/h is 10.6 seconds, which sounds slow but the Inster is not underpowered and there’s no problem joining motorways or keeping up with traffic.
There are also loads of features you might expect from larger cars: adaptive cruise control and other driver assistance features; drive modes (eco, normal, sport and snow); there are even paddles behind the steering wheel to adjust the regenerative braking and a full one-pedal driving mode.
There's been a lot of hype around the new Hyundai Inster but it really lives up to it. At the moment, it comes in at a great price but doesn't feel at all cheap inside or in the way it drives. The space and flexibility of the interior is also a huge bonus and will boost the car's popularity even more. The Inster really might be all the car you need! n
Interior
Enniscorthy’s Hillbrook Tennis Club excels at Leinster Finals
Hillbrook Lawn Tennis Club, Enniscorthy, was strongly represented at the Leinster Regional Finals last month in Carlow, with three teams showcasing their talent and determination.
MEN’S DIVISION 3 TEAM:
Kalem Mahon (Captain), Conaill O'Dwyer, Peter Brady, and TJ Parle put in a valiant effort against Gorey. Despite some closely contested matches, they were narrowly defeated 3-1.
LADIES’ DIVISION 2 TEAM
Led by Captain Audrey Rochford, alongside Ashley Leacy, Catherine Shanahan, and Jacinta Kinsella, the team delivered a tremendous performance against Mullingar. With the match tied at 2-2, it came down to a Championship tiebreaker. Audrey and Ashley held their nerve to clinch the win, much to the delight of their enthusiastic supporters.
ROOKIES TEAM
Captained by Margaret Levingstone and featuring Linda Gettings, Mag Walsh, and Siobhain Stanbridge, the Rookies faced Termonfeckin in a thrilling encounter. Again, the match was tied at 2-2, leading to another Championship tiebreak. Linda and Mag rose to the occasion, securing a nail-biting victory and making it a proud moment for the club. Congrats to all players who competed and to the substitutes who contributed throughout the campaign.
The club thanks all the supporters who travelled to cheer on the teams – your presence made a real difference. And also a heartfelt thank you to Carlow Tennis Club for hosting, and to Tennis Leinster – especially Ciara and Deirdre – for their excellent organisation of the tournament.
Top photo: Ladies Division 2 Winners.
Middle photo: Mens Division 3 Runners-up.
Bottom photo: Ladies Rookie Winners. n
Local team’s league medals
Wexford FC has a team for people with Down syndrome. They meet once a week in Bunclody to train as there are some players on the team from Carlow and Bunclody is a half way meeting point.
Recently some of the team travelled to the Sport Ireland Campus to play in the Down syndrome futsal tournament where the local lads reached the semi finals under the expert gui-
Enjoy a night at the dogs at Enniscorthy Track
Racing is on two nights a week, Mondays and Thursdays, at Enniscorthy Greyhound Track – a great way to spend an evening with friends or family.
First race starts at 8pm. Admission is €10 per adult (incl. race card), €8 for OAP/student (incl. race card). Under 14s go free.
Bar and cafe facilities on site, plus Chester’s chip van. Tote and bookmaker betting facilities on site. https://www.facebook.com/enniscorthygreyhound.track n
dance of their manager Mark Ross ably assisted by Justin and Paul.
It was an emotional and uplifting experience for the parents as well as the players. Many parents were told their children would never accomplish anything and would be lucky to walk, and now these same children were dancing with delight in the Sport Ireland Campus with League of Ireland medals!!! n
Sports Active
Sports Active Wexford is all about creating a healthier, safer, more active and inclusive society in Co. Wexford. Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SportsActive n
Pickle Ball now available in Enniscorthy
Curious about the fastest-growing sport in Ireland? Pickleball is a racket or paddle sport in which two players (singles) or four players (doubles) use a smooth-faced paddle to hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball over a 34-inchhigh (0.86 m) net until one side is unable to return the ball or commits a rule infraction.
Enniscorthy Astro Centre is the perfect place to experience the fun and energy of Pickleball. Astro Active Centre, Bellefield, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 923 6678. Email: astroactive@reachability.ie n
Resplendent in pink
Great to see the successful Templeshannon-based company Holos Skincare sponsoring the local Shamrocks Ladies Football Club.
Moyne Rangers ladies make history
Congratulations to the Moyne Rangers Ladies team who made history last month by beating North End 3-1 thereby winning the Division 1 title and promotion to the Premier League for next season. It’s a great achievement for this super group of players, and their managers Leo and Paul, well done to all concerned!
Marshalstown girls bid for more All Ireland glory
The management and members of Castledockrell United were recently welcomed to Marshalstown National School proudly displaying their Gwyn Jones Memorial Cup, which they won recently in Ferrycarrig Park, beating Bridge Rovers in the final.
Three current pupils of Marshalstown N.S. – Odhrán, Jack, and Ryan were ballboys on the day.
Our photo includes Senator Cathal Byrne who is Chairman of Castledockrell United, along with Pat Murphy, team manager, and Principal of Marshalstown N.S. Michelle O’Neill.
Three former pupils of Marshalstown N.S. featured on the winning team –James Finn and Odhrán and Tiarnán Tyr-
rell who came in to speak to the children and show them the cup.
In turn, the visiting group met with the school’s own FAI Leinster champions who will be competing in the All Ireland FAI 5-a-side Football Competition in the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on June 11th. In the photo the girls proudly display the trophies from last year’s competition (where they represented Leinster in the
All Ireland and won the competition) and this year’s Leinster Cup!
It is wonderful to see such success in this small corner of the Enniscorthy district. Well done everyone! And the very best of luck to the girls on the 11th of June in the Aviva. School Principal Michelle O’Neill says, “We are so proud of you and no matter what happens on the day, you are our champions!” n
FORMER ENNISCORTHY PLAYER IS NAMED TOP PLAYER IN THIS YEAR’S SIX NATIONS
Ireland back row Aoife Wafer, a former player with Enniscorthy Rugby Club, has been named the 2025 Guinness Women’s Six Nations Player of the Championship.
It follows an outstanding campaign with the women in green which earned Wafer 41% of the fan vote, emerging as
the winner from an impressive shortlist of four nominees vying for the coveted title.
Wafer was presented with her award during an event hosted by the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Emma Blain, aimed at inspiring young women through the power of sport (see photo). She was surprised with the accolade, celebrating with those in attendance –some of whom may one day follow in her footsteps.
Over 18,500 fans cast their votes, with Wafer narrowly edging out France’s Manaé Feleu by just 333 votes.
On the pitch, Wafer finished as the joint-second highest try scorer with four tries – matching the most by any for-
ward in the tournament. She now has 12 tries in 15 caps for Ireland.
Beyond scoring, she made a staggering 70 carries (the most of any player), covering 424.7 metres and beating 17 defenders – the second-highest total for a forward.
Aoife has just signed for the Harlequins Women’s team in England. We wish her every success with this big move in her rugby career. n
A piece of Enniscorthy history vanished?
On 1st August 2015 I was delighted to attend the unveiling of a plaque (see photo) at the old bridge, Enniscorthy, to commemorate the heroic efforts of Captain William Barker and the Pikemen who held the bridge against cannon and the relentless onslaught of British Crown Forces on 21st June 1798.
Captain William Barker, a brewer and a merchant of Enniscorthy, had served with distinction in an Irish regiment in France, and had been persuaded to join the United Irish cause, his experience and expertise being of great value to the Re bellion.
On 21st June William Barker and Fr. Mogue Kearns with skilled musketeers and brave pikemen were splendidly defending Enniscorthy.
Barker first began by placing a strong guard in reserve on the bridge, then advancing with the main body to meet the enemy, having each flank covered with his gunmen.
In this order of battle, he commenced a most desperate attack on the enemy’s line holding their ground gallantly for a time.
By Maria Nolan
launched attack after attack on the Crown Forces as pikemen casualties continued to mount.
The battle for the bridge was among the fiercest.
Once Johnston’s guns found the range they began to devastate large parts of the rebel line and when Barker and Kearns heard the thunderous roar of Lake’s opening artillery barrage from the northern approach to the hill, they finally realised that their only hope of avoiding complete destruction was to pull back and resort to house-to-house fighting on the streets of Enniscorthy.
Fierce fighting broke out once again on the narrow walkways. Rebels with muskets poured heavy fire down on Johnston’s troops, and brave, determined pikemen reluctant to give up the town fought Redcoats armed with muskets and bayonets, sometimes with nothing but their bare hands.
For hours the rebel army and its leaders
William Barker and Fr. Mogue Kearns consolidated their hold on the east end, against all odds, and a stalemate developed as both sides charged and counter charged along its length.
Casualties were particularly heavy among the pikemen, including Barker himself who had his arm blown to pieces by canon shot.
His place of command was immediately taken by Billy Byrne who fought valiantly to hold the position, giving their comrades on the hill some chance of escape to Wexford.
Gradually, after fierce fighting, the pikemen and musketeers on the bridge could hold no longer, Johnston and his Redcoats began to push the last defenders of the town from the bridge and up the incline.
Barker fled to Hamburg and then to Paris, where he received a commission in Napoleon’s Irish Legion and despite his terrible arm injury went on to fight in the Walcheran Campaign.
William Barker died in Holland in 1811 and is buried at Bois le Duc.
Fittingly, in 2015, the old bridge was named the William Barker Bridge, and a plaque was erected in his memory by the then French Ambassador to Ireland Jean Pierre Thebault.
But where is the plaque now and who even knows that the bridge is called the William Barker Bridge after this brave man who is part of the history of our wonderful town.
If anyone knows the whereabouts of this plaque can you please let me know and if it is lost forever can I take this opportunity to call on the powers that be to place a storyboard at or near the bridge telling the valiant account of how it was held by William Barker and our courageous ancestors 227 years ago. n
A plaque was unveiled on the old bridge in Enniscorthy in 2015, but where is it now?
Major funding for The National 1798 Rebellion Centre
The Board and Management of The National 1798 Rebellion Centre in Enniscorthy are thrilled to announce that over €80,000 has been awarded to them by the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht Dara Calleary TD, and Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development Jerry Buttimer TD, through the DAF Growing Social Enterprise Fund 2024/2025. Funding for over 120 social enterprises throughout Ireland was announced at the Food Cloud distribution centre in Tallaght on Tuesday, 20th May. Nationwide, €4 million is being invested in social enterprises to be used for building works, repairs, refurbishments, new machinery, equipment, etc.
The funding will pay for a new lift in the 1798 Centre, replacing one that has been breaking down regularly and for which parts are no longer available. The manager of the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, Mico Hassett, was invited to make a short speech at the announcement, explaining the importance of the award to the Centre, ‘We deeply feel that history should be accessible by all and we are actively upgrading our exhibition to improve legibility, increase font sizes, and modernise our technology to be more accessible. Every young person, every older person, every group, should be able to have the same experience when visiting us. Museums, heritage sites and cultural attractions should be as fully accessible as possible. We are very grateful for the support of the DAF Growing Social Enterprise Scheme in helping us strive for this and for committing to accessibility and inclusivity.’
We thank everyone involved in making this funding possible, especially Minister Calleary and Minister Buttimer. We look
forward to improving our visitor experience with this important piece of equipment.
The National 1798 Rebellion Centre is open to visitors 7 days a week from 9.30am-5pm Monday through Friday and 12pm5pm on weekends and bank holidays for self-guided tours of the award-winning exhibition, and is happy to provide prebooked, group-guided tours of the 1798 Centre, Enniscorthy Castle, and Vinegar Hill Battlefield. n
Opening hours are Mon to Fri, 9.30am to 5.00pm, and weekends from 12.00pm to 5.00pm, with last admission each day at 4.15pm. Visit and enjoy the delicious offerings from the on-site Cafe 98 before venturing through the award-winning exhibition.
1798 Centre Manager Mico Hassett and Board Member Anne Butler joined Ministers Dara Calleary and Jerry Buttimer from the Department of Rural and Community Development for the announcement of Dormant Accounts Fund awardees.
Viking invasion at Marshalstown National School
Marshalstown National School had some very interesting visitors to its school recently when Patrick Dunne (a parent of one of the students) and his Viking re-enactment friends visited the school. The Vikings arrived in full costume and every child in the school had the opportunity to see and enjoy their wonderful display of weaponry, crafts, and food. The children really enjoyed all the displays.
The Vikings’ enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge was impressive. Children were able to try out their helmets
and look and hold weaponry and see mock battle techniques.
The Vikings form part of ‘Deise Medieval’ and travel around Ireland educating all about the fascinating world of the Viking era. Deise Medieval will be hosting an event on the 16th and 17th August on the Greenway in Waterford. This event will comprise of 200 reenactors. There will be full tents, battleground, kids’ games, a viking dig, and a burial. Something for everybody to look forward to over the summer. n
All invited to remember 1798
The 1798 Summer School will take place on Saturday 21st June 2025 at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre, Enniscorthy, with a series of walks, talks and presentations about one of the most historically significant events in the country’s history. The engaging speakers and other details will be announced shortly. Tickets available individually or for the whole day.
Longest Day Commemoration:
On Saturday 21st June 2025 at 6pm a commemoration will be held on Vinegar Hill to recognise the battle that took place there on ‘The Longest Day’, presented in conjunction with the Enniscorthy Municipal District Council. A number of speakers will provide historical context, along with poetry readings, pipe band, and the Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society in period dress. This event is free and the public are very welcome to attend.
Rebellion Day:
Rebellion Day will take place on Sunday, 22nd June, from 12–4.30pm. This FREE family-friendly event takes place on the grounds of The National 1798 Rebellion Centre. A Rebel camp is set up in the gardens and re-enactors will answer questions about the battles and weapons of 1798 throughout the day. Watch out – there may even be a few shots fired! Musicians bring the Fringe Fleadh to Enniscorthy providing live trad sessions throughout the afternoon. Bring the whole family and explore the craft stalls too. Reserve a table at Café 98 to complete a day to remember! n
The 1798 Summer School:
€89,000 in biodiversity funding for Co. Wexford
Minister for Housing, Heritage and Local Government James Browne
TD last month announced almost €89,000 in funding to Wexford County Council for biodiversity projects under the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Local Biodiversity Action Fund (LBAF) in 2025.
The Scheme is operated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service and represents a commitment to support implementation of the Irelands 4th National Biodiversity Action Plan at community, county and regional level.
Minister Browne said: “Local authorities play an essential role
in protecting our biodiversity and the Local Biodiversity Action Fund recognises that role. We are proud of our unique species and habitats in Wexford, and Wexford County Council is doing fantastic work to protect them. Funding through this scheme will support further research on our wetlands in Rosslare and around the county, and monitoring of the rare Nightjar, recently confirmed to be breeding in Wexford. I’m also delighted to see that Wexford County Council is part of the ‘Return to Nature’ initiative, which involves five local authorities working to restore 30% of church grounds to biodiversity.”
“I wish all of those involved the very best with their work and look forward to hearing more as they progress.”
Funding will support the following projects in Wexford: Co. Wexford Wetlands Survey €29,901
Biodiversity Staff Training €15,000
Nightjar Survey Phase 2 €14,174
Return to Nature €11,500
Cherry Laurel Control Tintern Abbey €10,612
Biodiversity Education and Awareness events €6,375
Recording Irish Mayfly – establishing conservation status
€1,228.28 n
A national park at the Blackstairs Mountains?
Malcolm Byrne TD brought up in Dáil Éireann last month the possibility of developing a National Park at the Blackstairs Mountains. He asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he would consider making a statement on the matter.
The reply he received was as follows: ❝ Through the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) my Department manages an extensive network of natural heritage sites including 8 National Parks.
“Our National Parks are state-owned lands, managed for nature conservation by the NPWS, or in some cases, the NPWS along with other public authorities, with a significant degree of sustainable visitor access and engagement. The NPWS does not own or manage any lands within the Blackstairs Mountains, where most of the uplands are peatland habitats held in commonage by local farmers. The Blackstairs Mountains Special Area of Conservation (SAC), however, for the protection of the qualifying interest habitats – wet heath, dry heath and also a small area of alluvial woodland, does provide a high degree of nature conservation protection and local NPWS staff actively monitor the SAC for potentially damaging activities including illegal fires and scrambler and quad bike use.
“As set out in the Programme for Government, I recognise the importance of continuing to support the ongoing expansion and resourcing of our National Parks. To this end, the NPWS occasionally purchases land for strategic and conservation purposes where suitable land at a reasonable price, and providing strategic value to habitat conservation or public access, becomes available. Such acquisitions are always carefully considered on a case by case basis and in line with public procurement requirements.
“In light of the commercial sensitivity and the strategic implications of bringing these considerations into the public domain, I would not comment on any individual site that is offered for sale. ❞
Minister James Browne TD
Malcolm Byrne TD
Do your town a favour
Do you have a few hours to spare a month? Find yourself bored mid week evenings or at the weekend? Want to make your town a better place? Please contact Enniscorthy Tidy Towns: https://www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyTidyTown Email: enniscorthytt@gmail.com n
Please note...
To log a report regarding any dumping, street litter, road oil spills and potholes, ring Wexford Council on (053) 919 6000 or email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
You will receive a log number to refer to if you need to call again.
You can also ask to register for group or individual cleanups of your environment.
Tackling vacant homes
The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD has published figures showing nationally that 2,357 vacant social homes were brought back into active use in 2024 under the Voids Programme, and 66 social homes were reactivated from vacancy in Wexford in 2024. The Voids Programme supports local authorities in preparing vacant homes for re-letting and builds on the ongoing work to tackle vacancy and dereliction to ensure vacant properties are re-used for housing.
Wexford County Council has shifted towards a planned maintenance model which leads to quicker repairs, continuous use, and faster re-letting of social homes – 61 homes returned to use in 2023 and 66 in 2024. This trend is expected to continue in 2025 and should mean ongoing upkeep and more consistent occupancy.
Since 2020, the government has spent almost €190 million to return 13,177 homes to active use. Overall, in the last ten years, 393 social homes in Wexford have been brought back in use under the Voids Programme.
Minister Browne said: “I am currently pulling every lever to reactivate vacant properties. Under my direction, the Department is acting quickly to bring vacant social housing back into use across towns and villages, which is critical to help ease pressure on the existing housing stock, boost supply, and ultimately to provide much-needed homes.” n
With the support of the Environment Department of Wexford County Council, Mutt Mitt bag dispensers and bins (see photo) have been installed in Ferns village and also at several locations around Enniscorthy. These dispensers contain easy to use biodegradable bags to dispose of your dog’s poo. So no excuses! Bag it and bin it!! n
Please keep in mind Wexford County Council's Community Grant & Funding webpage when looking to source details of community grant and funding schemes that may be relevant to climate action measures.
This webpage is a valuable source of information detailing what schemes are currently available, terms and conditions etc., and very importantly.....deadlines!
To access the webpage, please click here: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/community-grants-and-funding n
Last month the Enniscorthy Climate Champions Awards, hosted by Wexford County Council (WCC) and supported by Global Action Plan in partnership with Ducky, saw awards presented to Meánscoil Gharman, Enniscorthy (Schools category); Enniscorthy Municipal District (Workplaces category), and Enniscorthy Community Allotments (Community/Voluntary category) to the delight of all in attendance at the Astro Active Centre, Bellefield. Enniscorthy Community Allotments were announced, to resounding applause, as the Overall Winners.
The competition, held over a two-week period in April, encouraged teams from three categories to undertake everyday actions with the aim of reducing their carbon footprint. In total, 10,669 tonnes of CO2eq were saved over the course of the competition across the three categories. A total of 14,324 activities were logged with an average saving per participant of 127kg CO2eq.
Frank Burke and Clare Kelly from WCC’s Climate Action Team, and Keith Magee from Global Action Plan, congratulated the winners and presented them with awards designed and produced by the Rediscovery Centre, Ballymun, a social enterprise that promotes circular living. The awards, made from solid oak floorboards rescued from a building restoration in County Wexford, were laser engraved to negate the need for metal or plastic name plates. Water-based pigments were used to add colour, and the awards were finished with water-based lacquer and natural beeswax. The winners also received goodie bags of sustainably sourced thermal mugs/flasks and cool bags.
The Council’s Climate Action Team thanked the winning teams for their participation in the competition, and encouraged them going forward to continue in their endeavours to reduce their carbon footprint through every day, big or small but always mindful, climate actions.
Top photo: Overall Winners and Winners of the Community/Voluntary Category: Enniscorthy Community Allotments.
Middle photo: Winners of the Workplaces Category: Enniscorthy Municipal District.
Bottom photo: Winners of the Schools Category: Meánscoil Gharman, Enniscorthy. n
Sand dune restoration at Curracloe
On Friday 25th of April 2025, despite rainy and windy conditions, volunteers from Wexford coastal communities, along with Clean Coasts, and Wexford County Council, joined together for an educational workshop on sand dune restoration and a hands-on marram grass demonstration to help restore and protect part of the Sand Dune system on Curracloe Beach.
During the event, which was led by Clean Coasts’ Officer for Wexford and Wicklow, Róisín Fitzgerald, and Clean Coasts’ Biodiversity Officer, Liane Costello, the group discussed the importance of sand dunes, the vital role which dune systems play in biodiversity and protecting us from coastal erosion, along with sharing local insights and knowledge on natural dune management strategies.
Following this knowledge-sharing session and a demonstration, the group of volunteers took to the dunes and got their hands dirty through careful harvesting of marram grass which they then replanted along the front of the dune system as a site for restoration, education and awareness.
Róisín Fitzgerald, Clean Coast Officer for Wexford, said, “A huge thank you to all the volunteers who joined us in Curracloe despite the rainy weather on the day. Activities and events like this highlight the importance of community ac-
tion and connection when it comes to protecting our coastal and marine environments.”
The marram grass restoration site will soon have new educational signage to help spread awareness to beach goers on the activities that have taken place and the importance of our sand dune systems.
Cliona Connolly, from Wexford County Council’s Environment Section, said, “This
Wexford County Council has three methods to log complaints:
1. Call: 053 919 6000
2. Email: customerservice@wexfordcoco.ie
3. Website to report illegal dumping: https://www.wexfordcoco.ie/waste-and-recycling/reportillegal-dumping n
was a great community event and saw an area of the sand dunes at Curracloe beach replanted with marram grass. Sand dunes act as natural buffers to the forces of the sea and are also an important habitat for coastal flora and fauna. This workshop is a great example how communities can get together and carry out positive actions against climate change. Coastal dunes are an excellent, flexible coastal protection. By looking after them, we have a win-win situation.” n
Participants in recent sand dune conservation to help restore and protect part of the Sand Dune system at Curracloe beach.
Co. Wexford’s coast secures almost 20 green and blue flags
On Friday 16th May An Taisce announced the International Blue Flag and Green Coast Award recipients for 2025. The awards were presented by James Browne TD – Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, at the presentation ceremony held in the Ravenport Resort in Curracloe, Co. Wexford. The Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards recognise Ireland’s Best Beaches and Marinas.
Green Coast Award Beaches 2025:
Cahore Point Beach, Old Bawn Beach, Culleton's Gap, Rosslare Harbour Beach, St. Helen's Bay, Ballyhealy, Cullenstown
Strand, Grange, Baginbun Beach, Booley Bay.
Only Co. Cork has been awarded more than the 10 Wexford beaches to be awarded the Green Coast Award for the 2025 season.
Blue Flag Marinas: Kilmore Quay, New Ross Marina.
Blue Flag Beaches: Carne, Curracloe, Morriscastle Beach, Rosslare Strand, Ballinesker Beach, Ballymoney North Beach. n
Sustainability at Kilcannon
Climate Action & Biodiversity
Fortnight 2025
Wexford County Council held its Climate Action & Biodiversity Fortnight 2025 from 12th May to 25th May 2025. The fortnight served as a platform to inspire action and drive positive change at local level and to raise awareness on Climate Action & Biodiversity through a number of free events across the county. There were in excess of 20 events attended by over 500 people across the two weeks. The following is a flavour of some of the events that took place.
The fortnight kicked off on Monday, 12th May, with an awards event in Enniscorthy to recognise the winners in the Enniscorthy Climate Champions Competition. The Awards were hosted by Wexford County Council (WCC) and supported by Global Action Plan, with awards presented to Meánscoil Gharman, Enniscorthy as winners of the Schools category, to Enniscorthy Municipal District as winners of the Workplaces category and to Enniscorthy Community Allotments as winners of the Community/Voluntary category. Enniscorthy Community Allotments were announced as the Overall Winners.
In total, 10,669 tonnes of CO2eq were saved over the course of the competition across the three categories. A total of 14,324 activities were logged with an average saving per participant of 127kg CO2eq.
On Wednesday, 13th May, in Redmond Park, artist Mayumi Nakabayashi used land art as a means of creating discussion
(12th May – 25th May)
around Climate Change and Biodiversity.
The Pedal Happy webinar on Wednesday, 14th May, was a very informative event, where members of WexBUG gave their insights and experiences on the different types of cycling activities you can engage in.
Over 25 people joined the Climate Action and Active Travel Teams of Wexford County Council on a 3km scenic coastal trail in Arthurstown on Thursday, 15th May. Walkers enjoyed stunning views and were given an overview of the Duncannon European Innovation Project and information on the impact of Climate Change on the marine and terrestrial biodiversity in the area. The walk was followed by a vibrant underwater Biodiversity Photography Presentation in the Kings Bay Inn by Ivan Donoghue of the Wexford Sub Aqua Club with tasty refreshments served to the thirsty walkers.
On Thursday evening, the Foulksmills Tidy Towns group hosted a 5km Family Fun Cycle which started and finished at the picturesque park in Foulksmills Village.
On Friday, 16th May, Gorey Library engaged the very young in cycling-themed storytelling and arts & crafts, while on the same day, Enniscorthy Library hosted a Bealtaine T-shirt Upcycling Workshop with textile waste artist, Lynn Haughton.
Alan and Cheryl Poole and family held a biodiversity walk on their dairy farm just outside Gorey on Saturday, 17th May.
A group gathered early on Sunday morn-
ing, 18th May, and cycled in beautiful sunshine from Hookless Village to Hook Lighthouse where they met up with Jim Hurley, who outlined the importance of the Hook Peninsula from a geological and natural heritage viewpoint and summarised the rich biodiversity that Hook and its waters bring to this area of Wexford.
On Tuesday night, 20th May, Gorey Library hosted a talk on preserving our dark skies with Kerem Ali Asforoglu, an expert on light pollution and the impacts of lighting on wildlife.
In New Ross Library, on the same night, wildlife artist and bird expert David Daly gave a very interesting talk on how small measures taken in the garden can really benefit wildlife.
On Thursday, 22nd May, children in Davidstown National School learned all about water quality with a kick sampling event held in conjunction with the Local Authorities Waters Programme (LAWPRO).
The Office of Public Works (OPW) hosted a 24-hour BioBlitz in JFK Arboretum from Friday, 23rd May, to Saturday, 24th May, where experts in ecology and biodiversity gave insights into all that was encountered during the well-attended nature trail events.
Also on 24th May, the Connections Festival hosted by Tomhaggard Clean Coasts group held a bumper mini festival to celebrate the joy of living by the sea. From swimming to music to paddle board sessions and snorkelling try-outs, there was something for everyone. n
Arthurstown Coastal Walk.
Biodiversity group holds its first meeting
County Wexford Biodiversity Working Group holds its inaugural meeting.
On May 2nd 2025, a group of experts representing many public bodies, voluntary groups, NGOs, and special interest groups came together to form the Biodiversity Working Group to guide the development of the Local Biodiversity Action Plan for the county. Wexford Co. Council is very grateful for the support of so many biodiversity experts for sharing their time and knowledge to guide the development of the plan.
The Biodiversity Working Group is a non statutory advisory group which sits under the Heritage Forum.
It consists of representatives from Coillte, the Botanical Society of Britain & Ireland (BSBI), the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS), Irish Farmers Association (IFA), Coastwatch, SWC Promotions, Office of Public Works (OPW), Wexford Naturalists Field Club,
Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO), Teagasc, as well as Wexford County Council staff from its Planning, Housing and Environment Departments
Chair for the group, Councillor Leonard Kelly, chaired the group's inaugural meeting which was captured in the graphic below by Eimear McNally, Graphic Recorder. n
