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Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year and thank you for your custom in 2013.

Sparkle & Shine Nail Bar has opened at 21 Duffry Gate Enniscorthy (above Grants Pharmacy)

Gel Nails €30 3 Week Gel Polish €15 Call Amy on 085 7236596 to reserve an appointment or look up our Facebook page Sparkle & Shine

IEtLE’BsRATFINGR3 EYEAERS

Slaneynews Serving Enniscorthy, Bunclody, and surrounding areas

C

Issue 44 - Tuesday - 3 December 2013

Your local FREE community newspaper

Adamstown, Askamore, Ballaghkeen, Ballindaggin, Ballycarney, Ballyduff, Ballyedmond, Ballyhoge, Ballymurn, Blackwater, Boolavogue, Bree, Bunclody, Camolin, Castledockrell, Clohamon, Clonroche, Courtnacuddy, Curracloe, Enniscorthy, Ferns, Galbally, Glenbrien, Killanne, Kilmuckridge, Kilmyshall, Kiltealy, Marshalstown, Monageer, Monamolin, Oylegate, Oulart, Poulpeasty, Raheenduff, Rathnure, Screen, The Harrow.

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Slaneynews: January issue will be out on Tuesday 7th Jan 2014

2

Slaney News

3 December 2013

www.slaneynews.com

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WHERE CAN I PICK UP THE SLANEY NEWS?

Welcome to the Christmas issue of the Slaney News. There’s never been as much happening in Enniscorthy at Christmas to keep us all entertained and to satisfy all our shopping needs.

On the shopping front there’s the Enniscorthy Gala Raffle with around 80 businesses participating, the new Enniscorthy Gift Voucher which makes the ideal Christmas gift, extended opening hours in most shops for December, and of course the new Christmas Lights in Enniscorthy are among the best in Ireland.

On the entertainment front there will be a spectacular Christmas Parade on Saturday 7th December featuring the professional Bui Bolg performance group as well as carol singing and entertainment in the Market Square every Saturday for the rest of this month. And of course let’s not forget Santa in the Castle every weekend. It’s all happening in Enniscorthy!

We carry all the relevant information in this issue and you can of course keep up to date with developments during the month on our Slaney News Facebook page and on the new Enjoy Enniscorthy Facebook page. And don’t forget you can read our back issues online at: www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs.

– Frank Corcoran

We print 10,000 copies per issue of which 5,000 are distributed door-todoor in Enniscorthy town and 700 in Bunclody. The balance is distributed to over 170 drop-off points: ENNISCORTHY: Doyles Bar, The Duffry Gala Duffry Hope Centre Copper Pan MAD Serenity Place Storm Hair Design Cotton Tree Cafe Dawson’s Bar Crew Cuts George’s Hair Salon Landis Nosh+Coffee Galo Chargrill Hope Charity Shop Irish Wheelchair Association Charity Shop Bart’s Charity Shop Sue Ryder Charity Shop Millstream Fish Shop Polish Butcher Irish Street Bridget’s Hair Salon Brand U Get IT Fixed Rackards McG’s Danny’s Barber Shop

Darios Ultimate Nutrition –––––––––––––––––––– Greenville Stores Presentation Centre SuperValu Pettitts Mace/Maxol Bellefield Enniscorthy Cabs Quik Pick, Ross Road Doyles Checkout, The Duffry Bellefield GAA complex CWCWE Enterprise Centre Enniscorthy Voc. College Golden City Castle Bar Burger Macs The Bailey Shang Hai Riverside Park Hotel TOP shop/filling station Wickham Bros –––––––––––––––––––– Ziggys Hair Salon Smiles Dental The Barber Shop C&R Print Treacys Hotel Toss Kavanagh’s TK Cabs O’Callaghan’s Centra J Donohoe Hardware Chapel Lane Service Station Wilson’s Bar ––––––––––––––––––––

Main Post Office IFA Centre Wexford Local Development SuperValu Abbey Square Petopia Credit Union Enniscorthy Castle Post Office at Cathedral –––––––––––––––––––– Library St John’s Hospital 1798 Centre –––––––––––––––––––– Kavanagh’s Pharmacy Community Info. Service Uptown Kuts Aideen Vonno Hilltop Dry Cleaners –––––––––––––––––––– Town Council Offices River Restaurant Evolv Turkuts Citizens Advice Centre Paul’s Shoe Repair/Locks/Keys Toffee & Thyme Baked Potato O’Brien’s, Court Street Court Street Dental Clinic Court Street Medical Centre Pet Supplies Bega Barber Karl Martin Hairdressers Scissors Sisters Studio 5

Finishing Touches –––––––––––––––––––– Gala Express, Old Dublin Rd Moyne Veterinary Clinic Pump Palace Gym Co. Council Offices Kilcannon Garden Centre Enniscorthy Golf Club Martin’s Londis, Tomnalosset ADAMSTOWN: Cullen’s Gala.

BALLAGHKEEN: Donohoes Foodstore Sawdust Inn. BALLYCARNEY: Jenny’s Diner BALLYEDMOND/WELLS: Downes Gala Wells House.

BALLYMURN: Peter Doyle’s Costcutter.

BLACKWATER: Londis Post Office Blackwater Open Farm.

BOOLAVOGUE: Post Office Fr Murphy Centre.

BREE: Brí Beag Childcare.

BUNCLODY: Adult Learning Centre SuperValu Thirty Café Millrace Hotel

Rivers Edge Library Post Office Sugar & Spice Daybreak, Ryland Road Eurospar Half Way House Credit Union Urban Barber Thirty Café Chevue Studio Totally Pampered Econ Fuels.

CAIM: Rackards.

CAMOLIN: C&K Takeaway Christy Byrne’s, Butcher Post Office.

CLONROCHE: Kavanagh’s Gala Greene’s Shop Post Office Larkin’s Shop.

COURTNACUDDY: Kelly’s Shop.

CURRACLOE: Cloney’s Shop Post Office.

FERNS: Beauty by Sarah Centra Applegreen Ferns Barber Post Office

Bolgers Hardware Courtyard Forrest’s Café & Bookstore Rynhart Hair Design Ferns Community Centre Ferns Castle Launderette Daybreak.

KILMUCKRIDGE: Londis Centra Sean Ógs Hotel.

KILTEALY/BALLINDAGGIN: Kiltealy Post Office.

MARSHALSTOWN: Murphy’s.

MONAGEER Monageer Tavern / Corner Shop.

OULART: Corrigan’s Londis Post Office.

OYLEGATE: Garrys Service Station.

RATHNURE: Post Office WEXFORD: Maldron Hotel O’Briens, Redmond Sq O’Briens, Main St Nosh & Dosh, Redmond Sq Yard Restaurant Wexford Arts Centre Wexford Service Station, Newtown Road.

Rathnure’s colourful Panto takes to the stage later this month – see page 18 for full details 6 Alder Court, Ferns 053 9233004 & 12 Castle Street, Enniscorthy 053 9367594 CHRISTMAS IS FAST APPROACHING!

Join our Christmas Club Come in, telephone or

SLANEY NEWS, CLONHASTON, ENNISCORTHY Tel: 087-2403310 slaneynews@gmail.com PUBLISHED in Enniscorthy by Corcoran Print & Design PRINTED in Enniscorthy by Datascope Ltd. and READ in Enniscorthy, Bunclody and the surrounding areas by up to 20,000 people (based on estimated average readership of two people per copy).

Slaney News – coverage area ASKAMORE

BUNCLODY

CAMOLIN

KILMYSHALL BALLINDAGGIN

KILTEALY KILLANNE

RATHNURE

COURTNACUDDY

POULPEASTY

CLONROCHE GALBALLY

ADAMSTOWN

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MARSHALSTOWN

MONAGEER

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GLENBRIEN BREE

MONAMOLIN

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RAHEENDUFF

NOW!

ASK TO LOOK AT THE

OULART

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BALLYEDMOND

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BALLAGHKEEN

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OYLEGATE BALLYHOGE

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Disclaimer: Slaney News reserves the right to accept or reject any advertisement submitted for publication.

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

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

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

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

The Slaney News is now online at www.issuu.com/slaneynews so that you, and your friends and relations all over the world, can now read each issue online as soon as it is published.

Does your business need a lift? aDvertise your business or Distribute your LeafLet/brochure inserteD in the sLaney news caLL us toDay for a quote on 087-2403310

Slaneynews: Local Publisher Local Printer Local News

arket ho u park road e mmill s th enniscorthy – tel: 053-9235633 e across from main post office, between bank of ireland and superValu

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new children’s fashion dept Now in Store catering for 0 mths to 16 years – boys & girls

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1,000s in Stock All at Wholesale Prices

20% off rugs

ladies christmas party and wedding wear up to 50% off selected stock ladies fashion sizes 8-26

20% off all

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household chriStmAS oil-cloth NoW iN Stock – liMited quaNtity Fully lined curtains clearing from €20 curtain Poles - wood and iron 20% oFF Net curtains from €1.99 sq.yd.

Siesta twin pack Pillows were €14.99 now €8.95 continental Quilts 13.5 tog and 15 tog 20% oFF Sheets and Quilt covers greatly reduced

limited Bath Sets now clearing from €5 stock of Many, many more itemschristmas oil clearing also. cloth now in store

oPeN moN-SAt 9.30am-6pm. oPeN SuNdAyS 12noon-6pm.

Plus extended Opening Hours the week before Christmas.

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The Ad on this page has been deliberately placed upside down!

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Slaney News

Enniscorthy 2014 Calendar Pic: Maria Nolan

Pic: Maria Nolan

Jimmy Gahan and Sean Doyle at the Enniscorthy Calendar launch.

Those who attended at Enniscorthy Castle on Wednesday 13th Nov for the Launch of the 2014 Enniscorthy Calendar were treated not just to a beautiful aesthetic production by Polish photographer Basia Dunio but were also entertained with the very eloquent words of poet Eamonn Doyle and enjoyed a history lesson to booth from informative town historian Sean Og Doyle.

This wonderful Wexford / Kilkenny / Poland collaboration is the brainchild of Eamonn Doyle who was aided and abetted by Kilkenny native Richie Cotter and photographer Basia Dunio from Poland and launched by lifelong friend and neighbour and Master of the cupla focail Jimmy Gahan.

3 December 2013

www.slaneynews.com

Quoting Life in a Small Town by singer/songwriter John Gougar Mellencamp Eamonn said that Enniscorthy is his small town and he can be himself here and breathe here.

The Calendar for Eamonn was a labour of love.

His father and MC for the evening Sean Og Doyle then read from Eamonn`s own poem The Hills – which appears on the Calendar.

Native of Urlingford Richie Cotter who according to Sean Og slipped into Wexford on the quiet is completely taken with Enniscorthy and delighted to have been given the opportunity to work on something as worthwhile as the Enniscorthy Calendar. He believes that Enniscorthy is simply beautiful and steeped

John Murphy, Richie Cotter and Basia Dunio at the Calendar launch.

in history and he says photographer Basia captured the essence of it very well – even making it look good on a cloudy day.

B e f o re l a u n c h i n g t h e Calendar Jimmy Gahan paid tribute to all involved com-

Eamonn Doyle at the Enniscorthy Calendar launch.

plimenting the `naturally, gifted young photographer from Poland who has managed to breathe new life into all things old`. Jimmy appealed to people to purchase the Calendar saying that it would make a wonderful memento for those who have had to leave the town.

50% of all sales proceeds go to local groups and charities.

The Calendar also contains a most timely history of our Town Council from 1613 to the present day and in light of the Council’s imminent demise next year, may well become a treasured keepsake.

A terrific Christmas gift and a great promotion of the town. Well done guys!

– Maria Nolan

IFA Concern over Dept Ag Offices Wexford IFA Chairman Pat Murray has expressed concern at the proposed changes in the Department of Agriculture regional office in Enniscorthy. At present, 26 staff members deal with a cross-section of ERAD (disease control) and administration of agricultural schemes.

The proposal is that from early December 2013, only two admin staff attached to the ERAD section would be retained and all other staff would be redeployed and that 8,000 farmers in the Wexford and South/East Wicklow and Carlow would have to deal directly with Portlaoise for everyday queries.

Co. Chairman Pat Murray said this was totally unacceptable. The Government talk about Agri 2020 Vision where Agri/food production and exports would be increased for 10-14 billon creating further jobs. This vision is total lip service to farmers as basic supports are being removed.

Wexford produces 10% of Ireland’s agricultural output and has potential to create more jobs and quality food for export. This proposal cannot be justified and will increase costs on farmers and loss of time in dealing with bureaucratic

demands associated with Department of Agriculture.

The loss of 20 qualified and experienced Department of Agriculture staff is unacceptable. These staff should be kept in situe and their knowledge used to implement the new rural development programme which would attract 50/50 funding from the EU.

Pat Murray

Mr Murray added that agricolleges are full. Farming supports 300,000 jobs in the real economy. Farming is a growth area and has massive shortterm and long-term potential for jobs/exports. But to redeploy 20 trained staff away from support and growth areas is madness. Wexford Government TDs should demand to have this decision reviewed and overturned as it is a backward step for 8,000 farmers. ■

Rebellion wins national award

The new “Enjoy Enniscorthy” Facebook page has just been launched by the Enniscorthy Business Association. After just one week it has almost 1,500 “Likes”.

Check it out on Facebook.

PYLON PROJECT CONTROVERSY L-R: David Minogue (Town Clerk), Jacqui Hynes (1798 Centre), Cllr Johnny Mythen (Chairman Enniscorthy Town Council), Colm Neville (Riverside Park Hotel) at the 2013 Chambers Ireland Awards ceremony. Pic: Patrick Browne.

The 2013 Chambers Ireland Awards ceremony took place in Dublin on November 13th and was presented by RTE's Mary Kennedy.

In total five Co. Wexford projects were shortlisted for the 2013 Excellence in Local Government Awards and the county was announced as the winner of three categories including the ‘JFK50’ for the Gathering of the Year; Wexford

County Library – ‘Discover, Imagine, Grow!’ was announced as the winner of the best Library Service Category; and ‘Rebellion’ at Enniscorthy’s National 1798 Rebellion Centre won in the Supporting Tourism Category.

Well done to Jacqui Hynes and the 1798 team on winning yet another award.

But it was back to business as usual later in the month

when the team held an Open Day for local businesses to experience ‘Rebellion’ for themselves which will help them act as ambassadors to promote this superb facility to their customers and visitors to the town. The Slaney News took the opportunity to call in and we were hugely impressed with the interactive and technologically advanced exhibition. ■

People from the parishes situated along the lowlands of the Blackstairs are up in arms and are strongly opposing the proposed planting of many pylons by EirGrid.

The plan of EirGrid is to erect many pylons in a line through their high amenity landscape, a landscape that is the most beautiful in County Wexford.

In my opinion the proposed 45 to 60 metre pylons would not only be a monstrous assault on a naturally beautiful stretch of countryside but would also destroy much of our indigenous fauna

and flora. People are also concerned about the potential devaluation of farmland and houses and the impact on tourism. In certain areas wind turbines are already a blot on our landscape without adding to the mix with high rise pylons.

EirGrid’s Grid Link Project will link Great Island, Campile to Dunstown, near Kilcullen, Co. Kildare. I believe that the actual route of the pylons is not yet decided but passing

by Kilanne has been mentioned. I suppose the pylons will traverse a line from Campile to underneath the

White Mountain to Kilanne towards Bunclody; in other words a procession of monster pylons between Enniscorthy and the wonderful views and landscapes of the fertile countryside embraced by the Blackstairs.

New Ross, Rathnure, Caim, K i l t e a l y, B a l l i n d a g g i n , Bunclody, Askamore are already involved in organising opposition to the plans of EirGrid. The people of Enniscorthy should also involve themselves by expressing their views regarding the Grid Link Project.

– Councillor Seán Doyle

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Slaney News

Tech Tip

by Sam power

GeT iT Fixed enniScorThy

3 December 2013

www.slaneynews.com

anDroiD antivirus As a genuinely free app for the Android platform, Avast! Mobile Security is offering an impressive range of tools. It has antivirus protection, it scans your apps to provide details on what they are doing, and it has a Web shield that scans URLs for malware.

There are various additional tools in the package and the best of the bunch is the anti-theft component. The app is actually based on an old app called Theft Aware which Avast acquired.

The anti-theft feature is hidden and allows you to remote control your Smartphone using SMS. So if you lose your phone, you can remotely lock it, locate it, or wipe it. You can make it play a siren sound, lock down the SIM card, and prevent USB debugging as well. It’s a comprehensive solution for theft protection.

According to the latest AV-Test report of 28 popular Android security apps, Avast is a solid option with an overall detection rate of 99.6 percent.

Although it is not top of the charts in terms of malware detection, the extra functionality (including the anti-theft tools and a firewall for rooted devices) still make it worth considering. It has

a light footprint with no discernible drain on battery life and no impact on general performance.

The fact this app is completely free, has a wide range of features, and offers protection for rooted devices, makes this a great Android antivirus solution.

Finally from everyone at Get IT Fixed, we would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and look forward to seeing you in 2014.

If you have a rooted device then there’s also a firewall that allows you to control network traffic. You can block access to Wi-Fi or the network for specific apps which is handy for security and potentially saving on battery juice as well.

You are cordially invited to attend the launch of

exford Book e WWexford Two new books Thon Wexford Then & Now Wexford is a town of great character and individuality. It has been in existence for 1,000 years, and this new publication, researched and written by Jarlath Glynn, explores that vibrant history. Jarlath Glynn is a librarian and local historian. He has had a life-long interest in the history of his native town and county. He has lectured, written about, and conducted tours of County Wexford.

He is currently president of Wexford Historical Society.

The book contrasts forty-five archive images with full modern photographs taken by award winning photogr a p h e r Pádraig Grant.

This book concentrates on the physical environment, the buildings and streetscapes of the town. Most of the original photographs date from around 1900, though some are later. The subject matter of the photographs dates from the medieval to the present day, and were chosen to reflect the varied and diverse aspects of the history of the town. The sites that are illustrated show us what has survived and what has not. Some of the sites will be well known and were included because of their historical and architectural importance. Other views were chosen as they have not been published before. The text links the past to the present and what happened in between in an interesting and accessible way.

This book will be of great interest to all who know the town as well as providing a vital record of the changing face of Wexford. Since publication it has been in the best selling section at Wexford Book Centre. It will make a perfect Christmas gift for all those who live in Wexford and to those of Wexford origin living abroad.

d hat an ho’s W AW Who’s What of Co. Where Where’speople Wexford’s

The names of more than 3,000 Co. Wexford in Liam Griff Speaker: people and profiles of more than 800 celebrih East Radio Sout , oran Corc Alan MC: ties, business and community leaders, icons, at are given in a past, present and living, ford l, Wextitled Hote rig ycar Ferr new 272 The page full colour book The onWhat and Where’s Wexford Book – Who’s er Decembby sday 5th Thurwhich Where. The book is funded Wexford at Local Development also has a supporting 7.30 p.m. website www.countybooks.ie.

Liam Griffin, hotelier, andents sports ed busiServand t Refreshm ness leaderLigh will launch the book at the Ferrycarrig Hotel, Wexford on this Thursday 5th December at 7.30pm.

COUNTY BOOKS Alan Corcoran, presenter of South East Camross, Foulksmills, Co. Wexford.

NTY COU ybooks.ie count Radio’s Morning Mix programme will be Email: info@ BOOKS master of ceremonies for the launch.

The new book is compiled by three Wexford media colleagues, Michael Doyle, broadcast journalist with South East Radio, who is from Camross; Michael Freeman, editor/publisher, native of Galbally and Crossabeg, and Phil Murphy, editor of Ireland’s Own, native of Ballycanew and living in Piercestown.

Books and publications editor, Helen Ashdown of Clonleigh, Palace, is editor of The Wexford Book. Paddy Whelan of Ballinruane, Ballycullane, is researcher..■

Happy Christmas & Peaceful New Year

Call the Slaneynews Hotline on 087-2403310

Slaney News

www.slaneynews.com

Enniscorthy Tidy Town Awards The annual tidy town awards organised by the Enniscorthy Tidy Town Association took p l a c e o n M o n d a y, 11 t h November in The Presentation Centre, Convent Road.

Association, Billy Murphy, Town Manager, Tony Larkin and David Minogue, Town Clerk, gave short addresses and congratulated all the winners and everyone who contributed during the past year

Eye on the prize: Enniscorthy is edging closer to a coveted bronze medal in the national Tidy Towns competition.

Let’s all make a renewed effort in 2014 to keep Enniscorthy litter-free.

It was a very pleasant function with prizewinners coming to receive their rewards for their efforts in improving their immediate environment and for presenting a more attractive and picturesque Enniscorthy to visitors to the town, and indeed to our own people who have pride in their town.

The Chairman of Enniscorthy Town Council, Johnny Mythen, the Chairman of Enniscorthy Tidy Town

to keeping the town tidy and clean.

Billy Murphy, Tidy Town Chairman, congratulated the prizewinners and all who entered the competition under the various headings. He thanked the Town Council Staff, the Tidy Town Solas Scheme workers and the volunteers who laboured so assiduously during week-ends over the summer months in keeping areas of the town free of litter. He said a more con-

certed effort is required to up our marks in the Annual Tidy Town Competition. He would appeal to business people and individual residents of the town to try and keep their immediate surrounds clean and tidy. If everyone did a little it is surprising the effect it would have. It is not too much to ask.

Councillor Seán Doyle presided on the night and welcomed all present and thanked them for attending.

He specially welcomed Mr. Pat Byrne, who represented the Department of Social Protection.

This year the Tidy Town Association decided to honour people who on their own initiative took responsibility for keeping their own local areas tidy and clean. Some of them have been involved in such work for years. No doubt they often wondered did anyone notice the work they were doing or did anyone give a damn. Well, the members of the Tidy Town Association are aware of their efforts and consequently made the decision to honour them publicly.

Each was presented with a Crystal Plaque individually inscribed. The recipients were: Pat Leacy, 97 Bellefield Road, Jimmy Brady, 18 Bellefield Road, Jack Chapman, Milehouse Road, Martin Kirwan, 4 Bellefield Terrace, Oliver Fingleton, Bellefield, Pat O’Sullivan, 17 Fr. Murphy Park and Mandy Kenny Maher, 108 Gimont Avenue.

Well done!!! – Seán Doyle Secretary/Treasurer Enniscorthy Tidy Town Association

Wishing All Our Readers A Happy, Healthy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

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Slaney News

Templeshannon women honoured A large attendance gathered to celebrate the work of the Templeshannon Ladies Community Group recently, which has played a pivotal role in the community for a long number of years.

Over 100 families and friends attended the event honouring the hard-working women along with dignitaries such as Government Chief Whip Paul Kehoe and John Browne T.D. The night kicked off in E n n i s c o r t h y ’ s Templeshannon Community Centre with some music from the St.Senan’s Parish Choir, which had everyone clapping and singing from the moment they walked in the door.

M.C. for the ceremony was Seamus Whitney, Chairman of the Board of Management for the community centre, who introduced CSP Manager Ann Ita Cody and Betty Doyle, Manager of the Wexford Women’s Refuge, to present the women’s ‘Back to Education’ group with their FETAC certificates.

Liz Duffy, the Back to Education Initiative (BTEI) Coordinator with Waterford & Wexford Education board also took to the stage to congratulate the women for their contribution to the Templeshannon area.

Also honoured were three

Marie O’Sullivan Doyle, childcare manager, with Kathleen Carroll and Peig Doyle.

Breda Roban receiving her award from Betty Doyle.

founding members of St.Annes Childcare Peg Doyle, Breda Roban and Kathleen Carroll, all

three now retired , who first opened their doors for business over 30 years ago, they were

given crystal vases as a token of appreciation.

Angela Foley, former CDP worker with Templeshannon Community Centre also received an award with Sarah Beth Watkins who could not make it on the night were also presented with a crystal bowl.

A beautiful ‘tree of life’ mosaic created by the woman’s BTEI group was unveiled on the night by Betty Doyle and Paddy Darrigan, the tutor involved on the Art & Design Course in 2008.

The community centre was founded in 1983 and since that time it has been helped by the many community programmes that are held there.

The Women’s Group have been very active in community activities since coming together five years ago, taking part in various projects.

All present were treated to a fine supper, with tea, cake and sandwiches all freshly prepared by the Women’s group on the day.

The Board of Management and management of Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre would like to thank all who participated on the night. A special word of thanks to the St Senan’s choir who performed the wonderful music and the local women’s group who decorated the hall. ■

2014 Re-enactment Launch It was a case of Cameras – Roll – Action, as re-enactors and potential re-enactors gathered at the 1798 Centre on Tuesday 12th November for the Launch of the 2014 B a t t l e o f Vi n e g a r H i l l Campaign. Manager and organiser Jacqui Hynes invited all to view extensive footage and photos of this year’s Re-enactment provided

by Cathy Keane of Bualadh Bus Heritage Trail.

The presentation was well put together and of excellent quality and all who had participated thoroughly enjoyed watching themselves on the big screen – particularly Unit 21 – The Children’s Brigade – who once again turned out in force. Well done Cathy Keane, your wonderful work will provide a first rate marketing tool for next year ’s event.

Jacqui Hynes thanked all for their commitment and effort in 2013 and presented the crystal trophy awarded at the recent People of the Year Awards for the Battle of Vinegar Hill Re-enactment 2013, stressing that the Award

3 December 2013

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belonged to all who took part and made the event such a resounding success.

Certificates of Participation were then presented to all re-enactors in attendance before Jacqui called for their support again for the 2014 Campaign which she said would begin with their presence in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade saying next year Enniscorthy… and who knows someday… maybe New York!

Now wouldn’t that be something for Enniscorthy to aspire and look forward to!

– Maria Nolan Unit 21 with their Certificates.

Pic: Maria Nolan.

Govt blocks FF proposals to revive town centres – Browne Wexford Deputy John Browne has hit out at the Government for blocking Fianna Fáil proposals to revitalise struggling town centres in Wexford and across the country.

The Fianna Fáil Bill, which was debated in the Dáil last Friday, proposed the establishment of a Town Team in each local authority to implement a town revitalisation plan.

Fine Gael and Labour said they would not be supporting it.

It’s part of a wider Fianna Fáil strategy, which sets out a bold new vision on reviving town centres and supporting local businesses.

Deputy Browne explained, “The sad reality is that many of our town centres in Wexford and are under threat. Crippling rents, unsustainable commercial rates and the continued credit crisis are strangling local businesses and forcing many to lay off staff or shut down altogether. Meanwhile, high parking charges, large shopping centres on the outskirts, and the cuts to local services and amenities can often keep people away from the traditional town centres.

“Radical action is needed to revitalise our local towns and encourage people back into the town centre. That’s what the Bill debated in the Dáil last week was about. It seeks to establish a Town Team in each local authority to oversee ambitious revitalisation plans.”

This Town Team will oversee: - Revamping the Commercial Rates system

-

Abolishing upward only rents - Changing the parking charges structure - Changing the planning laws to encourage town centre development - Introducing new cultural initiatives to keep main streets busy - Greater community engagement on planning strategy in towns - A new Purple Flag Strategy on anti-social behaviour - New financial tools for local authorities to invest in urban renewal.

Deputy Browne continued, “It’s deeply disappointing that Fine Gael and Labour are not supporting a plan to give our local towns a much needed boost.

“Towns across Wexford have lost many local services and amenities recently, including local garda stations, bank branches, libraries and local shops. Now, small schools and post offices are also under threat.

We need to start supporting our local towns, instead of just undermining them,” the Wexford Deputy said. ■

Organ fund in St Aidan’s

A young pikeman Adam Wickham with his grandparents Kathleen and Tommy Thorpe. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Following on from the success of last year’s Christmas concert in aid of the organ fund, another one will take place on Sunday 15th December at 8pm in the Cathedral, entitled “Christmas in St. Aidan’s”.

It will again be full of wonderful talent in the form of choirs and soloists from the parish and surrounding areas.

It is also hoped to have South East Radio broadcast the concert again this year. Tickets are currently on sale from the parish office costing €10 for adults and children go free with an accompanied adult.

Last year ’s concert was recorded and these CDs are also currently on sale at a cost of €10. They can be purchased from the parish office or on the night of this year’s concert.

T h a n k s g o e s t o O rc h a rd Recordings and Colm O’ Tiarnaigh for their hard work in producing this CD and to

all the choirs and soloists who partook in the making of it.

On behalf of the clergy, staff of the parish and choir directors, Adrian Doyle, the Cathedral organist, would like to extend his sincere gratitude to all who have helped support the organ fund to date, to the people who have attended past fundraisers and also all those people who have made voluntary contributions and the deceased members of the parish who expressed their wish to have people donate to this fund rather than people spending money on flowers.

It is hoped that you will keep the concert date in mind and go along for what will truly be a magical Christmas experience for all members of the family and get in the festive mood for this wonderful season.

In our January issue we plan to carry a more substantial piece about the organ in St Aidan’s. ■

Slaney News

www.slaneynews.com

9

Donohoes harDware the Home & Hardware Experts

Advice & hints from your locAl hArdwAre teAm TooLbox TiPS: winTer diy cHeckS

is a leak, thawing gently will reveal it sooner allowing you to mend it.

Home maintenance can continue during winter months with important DIY jobs including some of the checks below.

Check gutters, drainpipes and gullies are clear of leaves. In heavy rainfall blocked gullies can cause water to back up and enter the house and in cold weather can freeze causing any amount of problems. Use drain-tidys to keep out leaves.

Have your boiler professionally checked.

A faulty boiler can be both dangerous and inconvenient should it decide to break down on the coldest night in winter. Or worse still over Christmas when it may be impossible to get anyone in to fix it.

Check your windows and doors for any cracks where draughts can get in and heat out. Draught-excluders and rubber seals provide a reasonable fix for these.

Check your insulation. Walls can have insulation retro fitted by pumping the cavities. Lofts, all pipe work, tanks and the hot water cylinder should also be insulated. Take special care with gate valves and stopcocks. Make sure they can be turned off and on again in the event of an emergency.

If you do suffer from a frozen pipe, warm the pipe gently with a hairdryer or a heat gun after opening the tap fed from the pipe. Burst pipes occur when the water expands when frozen so if there

Lower Templeshannon, enniscorthy, co. wexford T: 053 924 2432 or 924 2433 F: 053 924 2435 e: hardware@jdonohoe.com

Clear pathways of leaves and dirt. Use Patio Cleaner to keep moss and algae from paths and patios. Have a supply of rock salt handy and sprinkled with sand can help in icy conditions. All these are available in-store.

Check your roof for slates which might be missing or holes which need patching. While you are up there take a look at your chimney too to see if it needs re-pointing. High winds are common in the winter and a fallen chimney can cause huge amounts of damage.

Cut back any overhanging tree branches which might be unsafe and contact the council about any trees outside of your property which might cause a hazard.

Dark winter evenings are very popular with burglars and installing outside

John

lights can be a good idea while providing a welcome to genuine visitors.

Inside use time switches to turn lamps or a radio on at certain times.

Remember to position lamps upstairs to deter burglars, as there is little point in lighting an obviously empty downstairs room.

Internal decorating is the most popular winter DIY job and something as simple as washing painted walls can make such a difference. This is also a great time to replace wooden floors, skirting boards, pictures and dado rails to change the appearance of a room completely.

Finally check your home insurance is up to date, especially if you live in a flood risk area or if you are surrounded by trees.

Being ready for winter means you can sit back and relax, while you wait for spring time to come around.

For more hints & toolbox tips… facebook.com / jdonohoeproviders

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Social Inclusion Grants allocated On Thursday 28th November t h e C o u n t y We x f o r d Community Forum presented Social Inclusion Grants to 11 groups around the county at the Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy.

36 Groups in all applied for funding under the Project and 11 deserving winners were chosen spread over the 4 District areas and presented by the Area Chairmen – Lucy M e d l y c o t t i n We x f o r d , Bernard O`Hanlon in New Ross, Maria Nolan in Enniscorthy and Mary Farrell in Gorey.

The Social Inclusion Grants are small amounts of money allocated through the Community Fora to various voluntary groups within the Community to complete or assist with special projects.

There are over 120 Community Groups in the Enniscorthy Area and 6 applications were received out of which 3 were chosen for funding - The Delightful Dollies, The Rapps/Stars Social Steppers and Oylegate ICA. Enniscorthy Chairperson Maria Nolan said that she was delighted to make the presentations especially to

the two that had an association with Bellefield GAA. She complimented the Delightful Dollies who meet every Wednesday morning at the GAA Complex for Arts/Crafts/Singing/ Dancing and of course chatting and the Social Steppers who meet every Monday and Wednesday evenings on the back pitch at Bellefield and are put through their paces without mercy.

County Chairperson Lucy Medlycott complimented all for doing what they are doing for their various voluntary bodies and communities and asked them to encourage other groups who are not part of the Forum to join saying that Training Programmes will be rolled out for all in the New Year. ■ First photo: Lucy Medlycott, County Chairperson, Ann O ’ C o n n o r, D e l i g h t f u l Dollies, and Maria Nolan, Enniscorthy Chairperson.

Second photo: Lucy County Medlycott, Chairperson, Linda Tobin, Rapps/Stars Social Steppers, Maria Nolan, Enniscorthy Chairperson

N

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Slaney Entertainment

www.slaneynews.com

3 December 2013

Merry Christmas from The Presentation Centre What’s On in December Monday 2 December – Community Grant Awards Thursday 5 December – Community Forum Executive meeting Thursday 12 December – Launch of Hope & Dream 10 Friday 13 December, 8pm – Dust Motes Dancing in the Sunbeams A special reading from ‘Dust Motes Dancing in the Sunbeams’ a new anthology of poetry by 15 of Wexford’s most foremost writers. A rare opportunity to assemble a number of these poets under one roof, the reading will include performances by Denis Collins, Jackie Hayden, Sean Clarkin, Mary O’Brien, Fintan Murphy, Joe Neal and Enniscorthy’s own Paddy Kehoe. Signed copies of the book will be on sale for the special price of just €10 – a wonderful gift for friends near or far this Christmas.

Admission Free. All are welcome.

Saturday 14 December, 3-5pm – Children’s Christmas Puppet Show Followed by plenty of activities, fun and games.

Admission €5.00 per child, accompanying adult free. See page 16 for more information.

Sunday 15 December, 5pm – Ceremony of Light with Nuala Ronan, Evolv Celebrating the spiritual aspect of Christmas – remembering our loved ones who have passed on, letting go of the past and embracing the future/what we want for the New Year. Including three meditations with carol-singing in between, followed by tea & mince-pies. Admission free and all are welcome.

Monday 16 December St Patrick’s School Christmas Concert Wednesday 18 December St Mary’s School Christmas Concert Saturday 21 December, 3-5pm – Santa’s Christmas Fancy Dress Family Disco Dance-off and best-dressed character prizes and a special appearance by the man himself!

Admission €5.00 per child, accompanying adult free. See page 16 for more information.

Wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year With thanks for all the fun and activities in 2013 The Presentation Centre will be closed 23 December – 5 January All activities and classes will resume week commencing 6 January Please check in advance tel: 053 92 33000 email: thepresentationcentre@gmail.com www.facebook.com/thepresentationcentre

Slaney Entertainment

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Energy, optimism and determination best describes the atmosphere at the Wexford GAA Supporters Club (Dublin branch) inaugural ‘Purple & Gold Gala Ball’ which took place in the Stillorgan Park Hotel on Saturday night 23rd Nov. There was a terrific mix of Wexford exiles and people who had travelled from Wexford for the event including some of the leading lights in Wexford GAA, Business and other sports. In an entertaining and novel approach, South East Radio’s Alan Corcoran, interviewed from the stage a number of guests. This included Wexford County Chairman, Diarmuid Devereux, Chairman of the Hurling Advisory Committee, Liam Griffin, Wexford Senior Hurling boss Liam Dunne and Senior Football manager Aidan O’Brien. Other special guests included Champion horse trainer and proud Wexfordman, Jim Bolger and former County Chairman Sheamus Howlin who has thrown his hat in the ring for for election to GAA President in 2014. We would like to take this opportunity to wish Sheamus the very best of luck with his campaign. He is an extremely worthy candidate and the whole of Wexford will be fully behind him. Another notable guest was Wexford’s All Star nominated full back Tomás Waters.

Tomás of course suffered a debilitating injury playing for the senior hurlers against Clare

Horse trainer Jim Bolger and Tom Doyle, Sponsor of the Wexford Senior Football Championship.

in July and was only released from hospital earlier in the week and is still receiving ongoing treatment. Tomás as outlined by Liam Dunne, is a model for any young player and we all wish him a full and speedy recovery and a return

to the Wexford hurling set up.

One of the highlights of the evening was undoubtedly the stirring rendition by the Mayor of Wexford, George Lawlor of Tom William’s ballad about Nicky Rackard, ‘Cuchulainn’s Son.’ George

Arthur Quinn Chairman of the Wexford Supporters Club and Sheamus Howlin who has thrown his hat into the ring for the 2014 GAA Presidential Campaign

held the room in rapt attention in a fitting tribute to the great man and Wexford’s hurling golden age.

However it was not all about nostalgia and it was exciting to hear from Diarmuid Devereaux about the success of the ‘Hurling 365 Club School link’ programme. While Liam Dunne whetted appetites for 2014 as he outlined how training was progressing.

The chairman of the Dublin branch of the Supporters Club, Justin Prendergast was delighted how the night went and announced plans to make the ‘Purple and Gold Ball’ an annual event in the Wexford calendar. He thanked all those who attended but especially Diarmuid Devereux, Liam Griffin, Jim Bolger, Bobby Geoff (Chairman of Coiste na nÓg), Mayor George Lawlor, Adrian Doyle (acting Wexford County Council manager), Alan Keyes, Glen Fuels Sponsor of the Wexford GAA Awards Ball, Tom Doyle Sponsor of the Senior Football Championship, Arthur Quinn Chairman of the Wexford Supporters Club, Oulartman and Provost of Trinity College Dublin, Patrick Prendergast, and Brendan Hickey.

The Club are determined to make the ‘Purple & Gold Ball’ a must attend event in the Wexford social and sporting calendar and will be announcing details of the 2014 event in the coming weeks.

Loch Garman Abu! – Maria Nolan

Busy time for ECS Pool, darts and live Music

Fri 6th & 20th Dec: Disco Bar Sun 8th Dec: Max and Bull Sat 21st: Greenweed Fri 27th: Borderline DartS For turkeyS: all through December and monster Dart tournament Stephen’s Day at 4pm See us on Facebook for info and special offers or call in to us any time

Vinnie’S

Island Road ennIscoRthy

 We cater for all parties

 We are now an eircom wifihub hotspot

tel: 053-9236487

Enniscorthy Choral Society (ECS) returned last month from a very busy and successful weekend of Choral singing in Sligo.

The Sligo Choral Festival committee pulled out all the stops for their 25th anniversary and the year of the Gathering.

This was a very international festival. Enniscorthy Choral Society competed in three competitions, under the direction of Donagh Wylde with choirs from Norway, Hungary, Portugal, Germany and Poland.

The European visitors brought an extremely high, standard to competition.

Enniscorthy were delighted to come third with Moon River and Dulaman accompanied by Eanna McKenna from Wexford.

A highlight of the Festival was performing at the festival party that night. Dulaman, an Irish number, was performed for the international visitors with John B. O'Leary doing the solo.

Sunday morning and the

choir had the honour of singing at the 12 o’clock mass in the Cathedral. The choir performed the De Regge mass dedicated to St. Oliver Plunkett, a relic of whom is in the cathedral.

In the coming weeks Enniscorthy Choral Society can be heard on Saturday 7th December 4.00pm in the Market Square, Enniscorthy, at the turning on of the Christmas lights ceremony.

Sunday December 15th performing with other groups/soloists at the St Aidan’s Cathedral Concert 8pm (this is similar to last year’s Carol Service organised by Colm O Tiarnaigh).

Thursday December 19th in St Senan’s church – Carol Service at 7pm.

Sunday December 22nd at St Aidan’s Church Mass at 11am.

Sunday December 22nd St Mary’s Carol Service at 7pm.

A busy schedule!

Anyone interested in joining the Society can look up its website or Facebook page. n

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Your “cut out and keep”

DECEMBER ENTERTAINMENT All venues are in Enniscorthy unless otherwise stated.

Storytelling at Ár mBreacha, House of Stories, Raheen, Ballyduff, 8.30pm. tel: 087-2119151, email: story@iol.ie.

A CeltiC ChriStmAS with Fr liAm lAwton, featuring local Thur 5 junior choirs under Éanna McKenna. Wexford Opera House.

AbbA Forever. Wexford Opera House.

Fri 6 Sound FX. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Fri 6 KArAoKe with Julie. Castle Bar. Fri 6 roy Fulton. Blackstairs Blues Buddies gig in the Riverside Fri 6 Park Hotel Promenade Bar 10pm. diSCo bAr. Vinnie’s Bar & Lounge, Island Road.

Fri 6 tonoS. The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely, 8.30pm.

Fri 6 ChriStmAS PArAde and entertainment, 3pm-5.30pm.

Sat 7 Something Blue. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Sat 7 vlAdimir'S vienneSe ChriStmAS. Wexford Opera House.

Sat 7 With special guests soprano Claudia Boyle, tenor Sean Costello and eight members of Vladimir’s musical family. red ChAir ChriStmAS SPeCiAl. Wexford Arts Centre.

Sat 7 ChriStmAS by CAndlelight Concert with Aileen donohoe Sun 8 and robert Scott. Wexford Arts Centre.

ShindAr. The Antique Tavern. 7pm.

Sun 8 mAx And bull. Vinnie’s Bar & Lounge, Island Road.

Sun 8 mick cloke. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Sun 8 the CAvAlCAderS by billy roche (drama).

Sun 8 Wexford Opera House. dAvid grAy. Wexford Opera House.

Mon 9 AlAddin (the PAnto) presented by Yellow Beak Theatre 9-13 Group, St Michael's Theatre, New Ross.

12-16,18-22 Snow white And the Seven witCheS presented by Rathnure Panto Society, Rathnure. Tickets tel 053 9255429. the mouSe who SAved ChriStmAS. Wexford Opera House.

12-22 A show for children (3-8 years). Tel 053 9122144.

A ChriStmAS CArol by ChArleS diCKenS (theatre) Thur 12 presented by Clive Francis, Wexford Arts Centre.

KArAoKe with Julie. Castle Bar. Fri 13 iSotoPeS. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Fri 13 the nutCrACKer by Monica Loughman Ballet, Fri 13 Wexford Opera House.

A ChriStmAS CArol by Charles Dickens (theatre) Sat 14 presented by Clive Francis, Wexford Arts Centre 4pm & 8pm. the runAwAy boyS. Toss Kavanaghs. With DJ support, 9.30pm.

Sat 14 been there done thAt. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Sat 14 Jimmy CArr – Gagging Order (comedy). Wexford Opera House.

Sat 14 temPle miChAel Ceili bAnd. Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely.

Sat 14 Children’S ChriStmAS PuPPet Show. Followed by Sat 14 activities, fun and games, The Presentation Centre 3-5pm, admission €5.00 per child, accompanying adult free.

ChriStmAS CelebrAtion ConCert with Seinn youth Sun 15 ensemble, Wexford Arts Centre, 3pm.

“ChriStmAS in St AidAn’S CAthedrAl” ConCert.

Sun 15 Junior broAdwAy StAge SChool presents Sun 15 'Simply broadway', Wexford Opera House 5pm. tommy g. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Sun 15 oCrAS 2. The Antique Tavern. 7pm.

Sun 15 JoSh ritter trio. St Iberius Church, North Main St, Wed 18 Wexford. Tickets €30 from Wexford Arts Centre 053-9123764. riPCord 64 Album lAunCh. Wexford Arts Centre.

Thur 19 CáCA miliS "nollAg" CAbAret. Wexford Arts Centre.

Fri 20 KArAoKe with Julie. Castle Bar. Fri 20 diSCo bAr. Vinnie’s Bar & Lounge, Island Road.

Fri 20 beeS KneeS. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Fri 20 Sound Fx. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Sat 21 Santa’S chriStmaS Fancy dreSS Family diSco. Sat 21 Dance-off and best-dressed character prizes and a special appearance by the man himself! The Presentation Centre 3-5pm, admission €5.00 per child, accompanying adult free. greenweed. Vinnie’s Bar & Lounge, Island Road.

Sat 21 JACK the lAd. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Sun 22 eddie CreAn & riChArd King. The Antique Tavern. 7pm.

Sun 22 myStery trAin serving up Elvis's great Rock n Roll, Rockabilly Mon 23 and Christmas hits for Elvis themed Christmas party for We Dig Roots club. DBar 9.30pm with SE RnR club DJs. Joe 90. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Thur 26 eArly AFternoon SeSSion. The Antique Tavern.

Thur 26 KArAoKe with Julie. Castle Bar. Fri 27 borderline. Vinnie’s Bar & Lounge, Island Road.

Fri 27 deS browne. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Fri 27 beeS KneeS. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Sat 28 deClAn o’rourKe. St Iberius Church, North Main St, Sat 28 Wexford. Tickets €23 from Wexford Arts Centre 053-9123764. live bAnd. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Sun 29 tom CAt & the ZodiACS. South East Rock n Roll club annual Tues 31 New Year’s Eve Party on Tuesday 31st December upstairs in The Bailey (lots of room for dancers). €10.

Joe 90. Temple Bar, Treacys.

Tues 31 vivA vinyl-only night to mark their 5th birthday, Wilson’s Bar. Tues 31 Tue 3

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Purple & Gold Gala Ball in Dublin

11

roho nightclub bunclody: lots happening in roho for december.

Check out: www.facebook.com/rohobunclody.

It would be prudent to check all events locally with the organisers and/or venues. Check www.wexlive.com for updated listings. ______________________________________________________________

See pages 15-18 for lots of other Christmas events in Enniscorthy.

12

Slaney Entertainment

“Tension and excitement mounted on Friday 22 November in expectation of the result of the Final of the WexFactor 2013 Under 25s music Competition organized by the Strawberry Festival and FDYS Youth Committees.

From 4pm there was a stream of artists completing their sound checks before the event started at 8pm.

Brendan Carty, The Orchard Recording Studio had offered a prize of recording time in his recording studio and had also recorded each of the six finalists. The six Finalists, in performance order drawn from a hat by Brendan , were sisters from Gorey Ashling and Amanda Fitzpatrick; Joe Hogan from Bree; Alannah Simmonson and Becky Costen from Enniscorthy; Irena Mernagh Roche from Enniscorthy; Duo Lucy Doyle and Eoin Groarke from Enniscorthy/Bree and Samantha Redmond from Enniscorthy. You can hear them on You Tube with links from Facebook under Wexfactor 2013 or Strawberry Festival.

Samantha Redmond.

Pic: © Joseph Doyle.

The show started exactly at 8pm with Craig Donnelly the MC. You would not know it was the first time he had MCed. He had met the artists, knew the songs and understood their music. As a lad under 18, he has future! Ethan Campbell of E10 Productions, a qualified sound engineer working at Windmill Lane Studios in Dublin was the sound engineer. Ethan may be recalled as a saxaphone player when he graduated from Maen School and it was a pleasure a young man would give his time to support other people. He did a brilliant job with music being mixed from songs of Katie Perry, to The Beatles and The Original Rude

3 December 2013

Boys! I-Tech Productions, who provided the sound for the 2013 Strawberry Festival, donated the sound equipment for the night , Matt Deane the Lights, Chris Sludds his time working the lights and where would WexFactor be if C & R Print had not sponsored the posters!

Two qualified music judges who are currently well established performers debated for 20 minutes who they believed had performed best on the night and showed potential for performing on the 2014 Main Stage Strawberry Festival ... which was the other part of the Winners Prize. Bellefield GAA hall was packed with

WexFactor winners Lucy Doyle and Eoin Groarke with Strawberry Queen Leanne Hore. Pic: © Joseph Doyle.

people who were thrilled with the artists with rapturous applause. During the voting time, Luke, Mikie and Jack ...

LMJ … performed. They are great artists, all studying music in the Leaving Cert, at CBS, Wexford. They have a tremendous future. They played for us until 10.30pm.

The people voted. Finger nails were bitten. The votes were tight. The Judges debated.

The drums rolled and all artists came to the stage and received their Finalist Award from 2013 Strawberry Queen Leanne Hore. Mc Craig had the honour of opening the letter from the Judges and announcing the Winner. The result received huge roars of congratulations to the talented duo, Lucy Doyle and Eoin Groarke.

The Strawberry Festival Committee is deeply indebted to the community mindedness of all who sponsored this event and look forward to hearing Lucy and Eoin on the Main Stage of the Strawberry Festival.

– Anne Gilpin, PRO

Alannah Simmonson and Becky Costen. Pic: © Joseph Doyle.

WexFactor Wannabes Young Wexford sensation LMJ – Luke, Mickey and Joe. Pic: Maria Nolan.

An astonishing array of young local talent assembled at Bellefield GAA Complex on Friday 22nd November to try their hand at winning the Strawberry Festival WexFactor Final.

The Finalists were in order of appearance: 1. Ashling & Amanda Fitzpatrick 2. Joe Hogan 3. Alannah Simmonson & Becky Costen 4. Irena Mernagh Roche 5. Lucy Doyle & Eoin Groarke 6. Samantha Redmond Two Judges (who shall remain anonymous) and the general public who voted had an extremely difficult task choosing the overall winner from the plethora of wonderful performances but following careful and considered deliberation the dynamic duo of Lucy Doyle on vocals and Eoin Croarke on guitar emerged above the rest and will now take Main Stage at the 2014 Festival and will also receive 7 hours recording time at the Orchard Studio.

Strawberry Festival Secretary Anne Gilpin thanked all who participated complimenting the well deserving winners and commiserating with the runners up saying that it was an extremely competitive and tight final and encouraged all the Contestants to continue performing reiterating that each and everyone of them had talent!.

The evening continued with a performance from the latest young Wexford sensation LMJ - Luke, Mickey and Joe hail from Curracloe, Wexford town and Rosslare and are a most gifted and handsome trio and ones to watch going forward.

Well done to Anne Gilpin and Strawberry Festival for yet another excellent initiative adding yet another dimension to our annual Festival. We look forward to seeing Lucy and Eoin on Main Stage in June. n

The Cáca Nollag Cabaret

Christmas in the Opera House Wexford Opera House creates a magical Christmas theatre experience for young children.

In the midst of an exciting Christmas season, Wexford Opera House, in association with Southeast Radio, is delighted to announce its first in-house production. The Mouse Who Saved Christmas is a special interactive show for children aged three to eight, which will take the audience on a magical journey from the theatre all the way to the North Pole.

The Mouse Who Saved Christmas is different from any other Christmas show you will see this holiday season.

It isn’t a grotto, but a feast for the senses. Children will be able to speak to the characters, play and truly experience the fully interactive adventure in the specially adapted Jerome Hynes Theatre.

There will be several daytime performances running from Thursday 12th until

Sunday 22nd December, and will be an ideal activity for both families and school groups.

There are three shows on weekdays running at 10am, 11.30am and 1pm, while performances on Saturday and Sunday at 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm.

For more information on this innovative and unique addition to our Christmas programme, visit www.wexfordoperahouse.ie or ring the box office on 053 912 2144. Tickets are 12.50, and 10 for groups of 10 or more.

A Celtic Christmas: Wexford Choirs join Fr Liam Lawton for a special Christmas concert.

Wexford Opera House is proud to welcome multi-platinum composer Fr Liam Lawton for a celebration of Christmas music on Thursday 5th December 2013. A Celtic Christmas will reflect on the place of the Christmas story and the great affection for it in Irish culture. Fr Liam Lawton will also be joined by special guests Rowe Street Junior Choir

and Wexford CBS Primary School Choir, under the direction of choirmaster Éanna McKenna who is renowned in his own right for directing a number of choirs and musical groups around the county.

Liam has recorded 15 collections of sacred music to date, a number of which have achieved platinum status. His work has also been recorded by many artists worldwide, and has been translated into a number of languages. Liam’s compositions have also brought him to the Carnegie Hall, New York, Chicago Symphony Hall, Anaheim Convention Center Los Angeles and even further afield. He has worked with such greats as John Malcovich, Gregory Peck, John Cusack, Frank McCourt and Mick Lally.

For more information on A Celtic Christmas or many of our other shows, visit us at www.wexfordoperahouse.ie or ring the box office on 053 912 2144. Tickets are €20. n

THe ReD CHAiR CHRiSTMAS SPeCiAL Music - 7 Dec An evening of live music from a selection of Wexford’s finest local musicians to round off another great year in The Red Chair. www.redchairlive.com –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CHRiSTMAS BY CANDLeLigHT Music - 8 Dec Concert with Aileen Donohoe and Robert Scott.

Aileen and Robert will perform new arrangements of your old favourites and get you in the Christmas spirit with some audience participation.

Experience an evening of Christmas songs, carols and festive cheer.

The seating will be concert style but mulled wine and Christmas treats will be available at the bar.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– A CHRiSTMAS CARoL Drama - 12 Dec, 14 Dec One of Britain's leading stage actors Clive Francis comes to Wexford for the very first time to reprise his acclaimed London Royal Shakespeare Company

performance as Ebenezer Scrooge in a unique one man adaptation of the Dicken's classic after last year’s extensive sold out tour of the UK and Ireland. Probably the most immersive seventy minutes you will ever spend in the evocative world of Charles Dickens.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– SeiNN eNSeMBLe CHRiSTMAS CeLeBRATioN CoNCeRT Music - 15 Dec A variety of classical and contemporary Christmas carols and music featuring participants from Seinn Youth Ensemble with local musicians, plus some extra festive contributions by poets, writers and actors.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ADVeNTuReS oF SANTA Childrens - 16 Dec, 17 Dec Every child knows about Santa Claus, the jolly man who brings gifts to all at Christmas…but… just where did Santa Claus come from?

Written by Michael Scott with music from Eurovision winning songwriter Shay Healy this magical little tale of Santa will delight and enchant you.

RiPCoRD 64 ALBuM LAuNCH Music - 19 Dec Wexford based rock band Ripcord64 will launch their long awaited debut album "Interloper" with a free show, the album will be available for the first time on the night priced €10.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––– CHRiSTMAS: THe CáCA NoLLAg CABAReT Cabaret - 20 Dec €12 or €20 with mulled wine, mince pie and Christmas cracker.

Yes, at this time of year we look forward to a last fling before the hard work of Christmas – shopping done, ready for mince pies and mulled wine come along and enjoy the Cáca Milis Christmas Cabaret. http://www.cacamilis.org –––––––––––––––––––––––––––– QueeN oF THe FRozeN NoRTH Drama - 21 Dec Red Moon Theatre present this annual Christmas delight in this wonderfully crafted tale. Suitable for all the family to enjoy.

T: (053) 9123764 www.wExfORdARTSCENTRE.iE

Slaney Entertainment

www.slaneynews.com

Operatic Meanderings Having missed my chance last year to experience what has fast become a spectacular feature of the Wexford Opera Fringe Extravaganza i was determined not to let it happen again so when i saw that blast from the past - Donovan - advertised for the novel Spiegeltent i wasted no time booking tickets.

Only those of a certain vintage will know Donovan and even way back then he was somewhat of an acquired taste but I would have to say over 40 years later his voice is as distinct and melodious as ever, his lyrics still ring true and by God he still looks good!

His repertoire revolved around women and he treated us to songs about Geraldine, Jennifer and Guinevere, and of course his specialities Catch the Wind, Hurdy Gurdy Man and Season of the Witch. He was absolutely value for money - a man and his guitar kept the full house entertained for almost 2 hours without a break! Not bad for a man of his advancing years and not bad for €23.50 per ticket.

I was impressed - but not half as impressed as I was with my plush, mirrored, velour surroundings. The Spiegeltent is something else. It exudes old worlde charm and glamour - from the moment I stepped inside I had that `down the rabbit hole feeling` of being transported back to the Cabaret scene of 1920s Europe and when the very eloquent Maynard Perdue aka Caolan Barron appeared on stage I almost expected him to introduce a sexily clad Lisa Minelli or Marlene Dietrich to seductively sing Falling in Love Again as she did in the Spiegeltent way back in the 1930s.

This is a must see venue folks - it has all the character and ambience of a Berlin Music Hall of the 1900s but Spiegeltent is actually a dutch word meaning - Mirror tent – and was originally constructed in Belguim in the 1900s as a travelling venue that was transported around the country and assembled for Town Fairs in areas that did not have a proper dance hall. Only a few of the

Donal meets Mary Crosbie The legendary Donovan in Wexford’s Spiegeltent Pic: Maria Nolan.

originals have survived and they now provide a novel and attractive venue for Festivals around Europe and beyond.

This lavish, nostalgic, Art Deco construction holds approximately 500 people has most definitely added that extra something to Wexford Opera Fringe and well done to Brian Byrne and Barry Murphy the duo responsible for bringing it here along with all the beautiful paraphernalia that accompanies it – the exquisitely ornate Carousel and the colourful Ferris Wheel that added a touch of wonder to the Wexford quayside for the duration of the Festival.

We lounged in the luxury a lot longer than the show enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, the pleasant surroundings and of course the table service. As we left I made a

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mental note to self to remember to book tickets for several nights in the splendid tent next year which I have to say has contributed hugely to an already superbly successful Festival.

Not everyone can attend the Wexford Opera House to witness the excellence of the Opera but the introduction of the Spiegeltent creates the feeling that the Festival is now that little bit more accessible to all.

It’s as if the Spiegeltent is the poor man’s Opera House offering a little bit of decadence and luxury at much better prices.

Perhaps we in Enniscorthy could do worse than exploring the possibility of bringing the magic of the Spiegeltent to town in the not too distant future.

Wouldn’t it just look the business on the Promenade!

– Maria Nolan

i have heard lots of people and famous singers do their versions of Amazing Grace, some do a good job, others are splendid. However, one S u n d a y i n S t A i d a n ’s Cathedral i heard a version sort of like the voice of an angel. The young lady i was hearing was mary Crosbie.

When Mary performed this song I listened to her so closely I believed every word she was singing, a smooth and careful deliverance. This got my attention indeed for it’s not many singers can attempt such a great ballad as Amazing Grace and pull it off but Mary Crosbie did.

Mary tells me she comes from Tomnalossett but now lives in Enniscorthy and she wants to go on singing and making music. Her ambition is to write and record her own songs. I don’t see why not, Mary has lots of talent and with a voice like that she can’t go wrong.

I asked Mary some questions about her life so far…

Donal: Mary, what else do you play besides guitar? mary: Piano.

Donal: Mary, who was your influence when you were growing up and learning to play guitar and stuff? mary: Well Dido and The Corrs, also Mary Black and lots of Irish artists.

Mary Crosbie

Donal: When did the spiritual thing come in as opposed to rock and pop? mary: It came by chance, my father is an undertaker and that gave a line into the church and the church suits my voice and when you sing the audience is always quiet and that suits my voice.

Donal: Do you really want to write your own stuff? mary: I bring my guitar around a lot and hoefully I’ll go on playing and singing.

Donal: Do you ever see yourself drifting away from the more spiritual things and into more popular songs? mary: I do the ballads and pop in my spare time but I don’t see myself drifting because church music is close to my heart anyway.

Donal: Was your mother an

influence on your music (Mary’s mother passed away when Mary was just 11). mary: Yes, she was there at the beginning. When I was 10 my mother brought me into Clokes music school and she was there at my first school concert.

You can hear Mary sing at St Aidan’s Cathedral every month as she gives a very spiritual effect to the hymns.

I do wish Mary good luck in the future – with her talent there is only one way and that is forward and upwards. Mary is very generous with her time and talent and we will no doubt be hearing more of her in the coming years.

It was fantastic to meet such a pleasant young lady.

Thank you Mary. n

Aileen presents Christmas by Candlelight

The exquisitely ornate Carousel at the Spiegeltent. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Lantern.ie presents: THE CAvALCADErS BY BiLLY rOCHE WEXFORD OPERA HOUSE | SUN 8TH DECEMBER | DOORS 7.30 | SHOW 8pm | TICKETS €22.50 AVAILABLE FROM THE OPERA HOUSE BOX OFFICE 053 912 2144, WHITES FOR MUSIC 053 912 2067

JOSH riTTEr ST. IBERIUS CHURCH | WED 18TH DECEMBER | DOORS 7.30 | SHOW 8PM | TICKETS €30 AVAILABLE FROM WEXFORD ARTS CENTRE 053 912 3764, WHITES FOR MUSIC 053 912 2067

DECLAN O'rOUrKE ST. IBERIUS CHURCH | SAT 28TH DECEMBER | DOOR 7.30 | SHOW 8PM TICKETS €23 FROM WEXFORD ARTS CENTRE 053 912 3764, WHITES FOR MUSIC 053 912 2067

NEiL DELAmErE | SmArT BOmB FRI 17TH JANUARY 2014 WHITES HOTEL, WEXFORD | DOORS 7.30 | SHOW 8PM | TICKETS €25 AVAILABLE FROM WHITES HOTEL RECEPTION TEL. 053 912 2311 WEXFORD ARTS CENTRE TEL. 053 912 3764 WHITES FOR MUSIC TEL. 053 912 2067

West End singer Aileen Donohoe, who has stong links with Enniscorthy, will perform a Christmas Concert f i l l e d w i t h Yu l e - t i d e favourites and songs from her album Christmas by Candlelight in Wexford Arts Centre on Sunday 8th December 2013 at 8pm.

Tickets are €15 and available from Wexford Arts Centre on 053 9123764, www.wexfordartscentre.ie.

Aileen will be accompanied, on piano, by West End Musical Director Robert Scott who has composed special arrangements for the occasion.

Mulled wine and Christmas treats will be available on the night. Get Christmas well and truly underway with an evening of music by candlelight.

The Slaney News caught up with Aileen during her recent impressive performances with Wexford Light

Opera Society and we’re looking forward to seeing and hearing Aileen again in her special Christmas show.

Aileen’s album is available on CD from Whites for Music and from Wexford Arts Centre. n

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Slaney Entertainment

3 December 2013

ENNiSCoRTHY GoSPEL CHoiR

Dec 2013: Sun 8th Dec: 12:30pm Mass in St. Aidan's Cathedral. Sat 14th Dec: 4pm Market Square. Sun 15th Dec: 8pm Concert in St. Aidan's Cathedral.

Tues 24th Dec: 6pm Christmas Eve Mass in St. Aidan's Cathedral. 2014: Jan-June 2014: 12:30pm Mass in St. Aidan's Cathedral (2nd Sunday of every month) Sun 20th April 2014: 12:30pm Mass in St. Aidan's Cathedral (Easter Sunday). The choir practises every Wednesday night from 7:30-8:30pm in St. Aidan's School Hall. New members welcome. Enniscorthy Gospel Choir new website: http://enniscorthygospelchoir.ie or find them on Facebook.

Redcoats and Rebels Revamped On Thursday 28th Nov the newly revamped 1798 Centre issued an invitation to the general public to come along free of charge and see first hand the state of the art rebellion experience on their doorsteps that our visitors are raving about.

And how right they are when I say experience that is exactly what it is - a total wonderful and emotive experience.

It is just so interactive - you get the absolute sense of being there - of being on the hill and when the doors open for you to leave and you exit into the light you will find yourself wiping away a tear that has stolen down your cheek. The Croppy Boy materialising before your eyes and searching through the dead for his sister Claire would bring tears to a stone but it is done so expertly it leaves you not just emotional

but completely spellbound and transported back in time.

For me as an Enniscorthy native it makes me so proud of my people and not just the ones who died selflessly and bravely on the Hill over 200

years ago but also those who are now working tirelessly and bravely to bring history alive in a way never achieved before Trust me - you`ve gotta see it!

– Maria Nolan

Stay away from that Hill General – these Rebels are serious!

Enniscorthy Re-enactment features in new book ING THE GATNSHonER IRELAND As you’re preparing for Christmas shopping, maybe you’d consider the following as a great Christmas present, and as a happy coincidence, the Battle of Vinegar Hill Re-enactment is featured in it!!! (As are JFK 50 and Lighthouse Keepers Gathering Events too, so great coverage for Wexford all round).

The Gathering – reflections on ireland, is a beautiful new book by the Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF).

It is a unique memento capturing the spirit of Ireland, its people and our diaspora. Containing over 40 compelling personal stories of Gathering events, spectacular pictures and over 30 reflections from some of our best known sons and daughters on Irish identity including Bono, Brian O’Driscoll, Katie Taylor, Simone Rocha and the late Seamus Heaney, it has something for everyone. It is the perfect Christmas gift for friends and family at home and abroad. The Gathering-Reflections on Ireland is available in all good book shops nationwide and online at www.hospicefoundation.ie RRP €20. All proceeds in aid of the Irish Hospice Foundation.

REFLECTIO

CE FOUNDATION IN AID OF THE IRISH HOSPI

Panto Time!

rathnure Panto – see full details on page 18. Clonroche Panto presents Hickory Dickory rock in Clonroche Hall, Tuesday Dec 3rd to Sunday Dec 8th. Tel 086-3474876.

Christmas concert with a difference Christmas is one of the few festivals of our modern times with a distinct musical tradition. Christmas at the Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely, kicks off with a concert from the exceptional music group Tonos. For this concert they will be bringing us some of the most evocative Christmas music dating from the renaissance and Baroque eras.

Tonos is composed of soprano Roisin O’Grady, and Eamon Sweeny on Baroque guitar. Eamon was recently appointed acting director of the Bray VEC Music Centre and is on the staff of the DIT Conservatory of Music and Drama.

Roisin O’Grady completed her B.Mus.Hons. degree in 2001, and in 2004 completed further study under the vocal guidance of soprano Margaret Marshall O.B.E., and was awarded a First Class Hons.

M.A. in Performance in 2008.

She was a member of and a soloist with The National Chamber Choir of Ireland.

Tonos sing frequently with The National Symphony Orchestra, The RTÉ Concert Orchestra and The BBC Ulster Orchestra.

Tonos will be performing in The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely, Co. Wicklow on Friday 6th December at 8.30pm. n

courthouse arts centre, tinahely On Saturday 14 December the Courthouse Arts Centre opens its doors to members of the Temple Michael Ceili Band so we invite old and young to dust off their dancing shoes and take to the floor for a knees up of a Ceili.

Aughrim based Temple Michael Ceili Band are Fleadh Laighean 2013 winners and the first ever Senior Ceili Band to represent Wicklow at an All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil - and they brought home the bronze medal.

Fiddlers Rory Healy and Cartiona O'Brien, accordionist John Bass, with Pat Bass on piano and Caller Sean Walsh promise to make this a memorable fun evening.

Sunday 8th December 2013, in The Parkside Inn Camolin An Expo by Rachel Camier of arts and crafts.

All welcome. Nibbles & craic from 7.30 onwards.

Thanks and seasons greetings to all.

ENJOY ENNNISCORTHY AT CHRISTMAS 15

www.slaneynews.com

ENJOY ENNISCORTHY Nothing happening in Enniscorthy for Christmas?

Take a look!

SATUrDAY 7th DECEmBEr:

Santa in Enniscorthy Castle.

9am-3pm: Christmas Indoor Market and Craft Fair at St Senan’s Hospital.

3-3.50pm: Market Square – Delightful Dollies choir introduced by MC Stephen Murphy.

4pm: Market Square – Enniscorthy Choral Group introduced by MC Stephen Murphy 4.30pm: Parade from Court Street.

5.10pm: Parade ends at Market Square.

5.10pm: Turning on of the Christmas Lights by Santa.

Watch out for fireaters and other street entertainers around the town.

SUNDAY 8th DECEmBEr:

Santa in Enniscorthy Castle.

12-4.30pm: Bazaar at Enniscorthy Gaelscoil, Drumgoold.

SATUrDAY 14th DECEmBEr:

Santa in Enniscorthy Castle.

3pm: Market Square. MC Stephen Murphy and carol singing with local choirs.

3-5pm: The Presentation Centre. Children’s Christmas Puppet Show followed by plenty of activities, fun and games, admission €5 per child, accompanying adult free.

This is a fundraiser for the Strawberry Festival.

SUNDAY 15th DECEmBEr:

Santa in Enniscorthy Castle.

9am-3pm: Christmas Indoor Market and Craft Fair at St Senan’s Hospital.

8pm: St Aidan’s Cathedral Concert.

THUrSDAY 19th DECEmBEr:

7pm: Enniscorthy Choral Society in St Senan’s Church Carol Service.

SATUrDAY 21st DECEmBEr:

Santa in Enniscorthy Castle.

3pm: Market Square. MC Stephen Murphy and carol singing with local choirs.

3-5pm: The Presentation Centre. Santa’s Christmas Fancy Dress Family Disco. Dance-off and best-dressed character prizes and a special appearance by the man himself!

Admission €5 per child, accompanying adult free.

All proceeds to County Wexford Strawberry Festival 2014.

SUNDAY 22nd DECEmBEr

Santa in Enniscorthy Castle.

7pm: Enniscorthy Choral Society in St Mary’s Carol Service.

mONDAY 23rd DECEmBEr

Santa in Enniscorthy Castle.

Enniscorthy Gala Raffle Draw in Market Square.

mONTH OF DECEmBEr iN ENNiSCOrTHY: Giant Christmas Tree in Market Square.

Santa in Enniscorthy Castle.

Music, Carols and Entertainment in Market Square every Saturday.

Information Kiosk on Rafter Street.

Santa’s Postbox on Rafter Street.

Look out for Street Art around the town.

Rathnure Panto (see details page 18).

Free parking on Sundays.

Many shops open first three Sundays in Dec 1-5pm (some open longer) and Sunday 22nd open all day.

Monday 23rd open ‘til late.

Please note that there may be some changes to dates and times as the month progresses. Keep an eye on the Slaney News and Enjoy Enniscorthy facebook pages.

Magical ENNISCORTHY Christmas ILLUMINATED Parade for Enniscorthy E n n i s c o r t h y ’s m a g i c a l Christmas Parade will start at 4.30pm on Saturday 7th December led by the Bui Bolg professional street entertainment group – one of ireland’s premier steet art and spectacle companies. Since 1994 Bui Bolg have been transforming and re-imagining community events and street art with performances which turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.

The parade will take in Court Street, Rafter St, Weafer St, The Duffry, Cathedral St, Main St, and Market Square.

Visit the

ChRISTMAS IN ENNISCoRThy Information Kiosk outside the old Dunnes Stores on Rafter Street for up-to-date information on all the happenings in the town over the Christmas period.

And don’t forget you can post your Santa Letter in the Santa Postbox beside the Information Kiosk.

CHRiSTMAS oPeNiNg HouRS

Participating shops will open first three Sundays Dec 1-5pm and Sunday 22nd open all day.

Monday 23rd open ‘til late.

Keep up to date on Facebook Keep up to date with all happenings in Enniscorthy in the run-up to Christmas on Facebook: Check out “Enjoy Enniscorthy” and “Slaney News”

The parade will be led by Santa Claus in his sleigh, and he will be accompanied by 72 performing stilt walkers, santa hats, hugs, kisses, newsaper boys, men of a thousand welcomes with mistletoe, giant toys, toy soldiers on horseback, teddy bears, clowns, polar bears, drummers, etc.

The performers in the parade will be lit up with fairy lights so they'll look spectacular travelling through the town in the dark.

Enniscorthy is in for a real treat on Saturday 7th – so be there! n

Thanks to funding from Enniscorthy Town Council a fantastic new set of state-of-theart LED Christmas festive lights was purchased last year making Enniscorthy one of the best illuminated towns in all of ireland.

The lights are now under the care of the Enniscorthy Business Association and have been switched on since the end of November. However, the Official switching on will take place this coming Saturday 7th December when the lights will be turned on by no less a celebrity than Santa Claus himself.

The erection and running costs of the Christmas Lights is an expensive operation for which the Enniscorthy Business Association has been busily collecting contributions from

businesses here in town. If you are in business and haven’t contributed yet you can avoid that guilty feeling by contributing now. You can contact us here in the Slaney News and we’ll pass on the relevant information to you.

In our January issue we will be publishing the list of names of all the “good boys and girls” who contributed to the fund this year. n

FRee PARkiNghy enniscor t

in

ever y Sunday

16 ENJOY ENNNISCORTHY AT CHRISTMAS

3 December 2013

There is a bumper season of Blues and Rock n Roll gigs coming up this December in Enniscorthy, they are listed below by date and almost all gigs are free.

First up is the return visit of one of Irelands leading blues guitarists ROY FULTON from Belfast who plays a Blackstairs Blues Buddies gig in the Riverside Park Hotel Promenade Bar next Friday 6th December starting at 10pm.

Gaelscoil Inis CĂłrthaidh, Drumgoold

Then we get Rockin' and Rollin' for Christmas with the visit of one of Dublinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best RnR bands THE RUNAWAY BOYS to Toss Kavanaghs on Sat 14th December with DJ support, this gig kicks off at 9.30pm.

Sun. 8Ăş MĂ­ na Nollag 12 - 4.30pm

Next up is an Elvis themed Christmas party for the We Dig Roots club in D Bar on Monday 23rd December with Kilkennys MYSTERY TRAIN serving up Elvis's great Rock n Roll, Rockabilly and Christmas hits. We will be Rockin' around The Christmas Tree, kick off 9.30 with SE RnR club DJs as well.

DaidĂ­ na Nollag â&#x201A;Ź3 + Bronntanas/present

Finally the South East Rock n Roll club hosts its annual New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve Party on Tuesday 31st December upstairs in the Bailey (lots of room for dancers) featuring one of Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading RnR bands TOM CAT & THE ZODIACS. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s have a Rockin' New Year and dance the night away, admission is only â&#x201A;Ź10.

SAOR ISTEACH FREE ADMISSION

Also coming soon, a new monthly RnR club presented by "Pink Penguin Promotions" which kicks off in January in the Bailey Friday 17th featuring RILEY & THE MOONROCKERS for the first one. We Dig Roots and The South East RnR Club support this new initiative. crprint.ie 053 92 35295

Enniscorthyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gala Christmas Raffle Approximately 80 of Enniscorthyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s retailers and service providers, organised by the Enniscorthy Business Association, have come together this Christmas to allow their customers participate in a major Christmas

raffle with over â&#x201A;Ź3,000 in prizes.

For every â&#x201A;Ź10 you spend in the participating outlets you collect a token to put on the competition card provided by the various outlets, once your card contains 10 tokens it is

entered in a major draw with shopping voucher prizes worth over â&#x201A;Ź3,000 in total: â&#x201A;Ź1,500 for the winner, â&#x201A;Ź1,000 for second and â&#x201A;Ź500 for third and a number of additional prizes.

The Gala Christmas Draw will take place on Monday 23rd

This Business Supports â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Promotes

December in the Market Square.

So get shopping now â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the more you shop, the more stamps you receive and the better your chance of winning one of these superb prizes. And donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget many shops are open on Sundays in December. n

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Events The Presentation Centre

Enniscorthy Business Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

GALA CHRISTMAS

Sat 14th Dec

RAFFLE

3pm - 5pm

Puppet Show and more activities ... great fun ... â&#x201A;Ź5

Collect a token with every â&#x201A;Ź10 you spend 10 tokens will enter the Raffle with

(accompanying adult free)

PRIZ PR IZES W WO ORT RTH O OV VER

â&#x201A;Ź3,000

ating p i c i t r a p t a ster o p s i h t s. r e o z f i r t p u o n i h c 0 t 0 Wa â&#x201A;Ź3,0 r e v o â&#x20AC;&#x201C; s t e l out

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thepresentationcentre www.facebook.com/

strawberryfestival

Sat 21st Dec 3pm - 5pm

IN VOU VOU OUC OUCH CH HERS ERS

.

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Information on:

www.facebook.com/

Draw will take place on Monday 23rd December in the Market Square, Enniscorthy Winners will be contacted and also announced on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Enjoy Enniscorthyâ&#x20AC;? Facebook page

.

Cool drink provided!

Dance-off; best dressed prizes.

Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fancy Dress Disco PreSchool - National School Age

â&#x201A;Ź5

Santa will pop in to the Disco with prizes for the dancers and fun costumes!

(accompanying adult free)

Proceeds go to the

ENJOY ENNNISCORTHY AT CHRISTMAS

www.slaneynews.com

17

Wishing all our readers, contributors and advertisers a very Happy Christmas

Enniscorthy castlE

Welcomes Father christmas…

Christmas at The Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club Gift Voucher Festive nights out, choose between…

The Moorings Restaurant or The Alamo Steakhouse Where our team will ensure you have a memorable night…

A Gift with Taste….

A Riverside Park Hotel Gift Voucher is elegantly presented and can be purchased for any monetary value

Upcoming Events in 2014….

Brendan Grace Sat 4th Jan The Fureys and Davey Arthur Sun 16th Feb Mike Denver Wed 26th Feb The Riverside Park Hotel & Leisure Club Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford Tel 053 92 37800 www.RiversideParkHotel.com

bar & restaurant

Santa’s

MAD Treats: White Chocolate Praline Mochas with festive mince pies served with brandy cream €4.50 OR Traditional mulled wine with mince pie and brandy cream €6.50 MAD, Market Square, Enniscorthy

Why not bring the family to experience all the nostalgia of Christmas in Enniscorthy Castle this year. Santa and Mrs. Claus ‘take up’ residence at Enniscorthy Castle during the Saturdays and Sundays in December, and a final day on Monday, 23rd, before returning to the North Pole to complete their preparations.

Mrs Claus will be reading from some of her favourite Christmas Stories, and helping the waiting children to make some very special Christmas Decorations for the trees in Enniscorthy Castle.

As you wait in anxious anticipation for Santa, why not play with some of the Roche children’s toys.

The Christmas Experience runs on Saturdays and Sundays from the first weekend of December (Sat 30th/Sun 1st), then every weekend until Sunday the 22nd of December, with an extra day on Monday the 23rd of December.

Price: €10 per child or 3 children for €25. Bookings

are essential. Please book your places through: 053-92 37596 Also visit www.enniscorthycastle.ie to download our colouring competition where you could win an exclusive visit with Santa when he arrives in Enniscorthy on Saturday 22nd December.

18 ENJOY ENNNISCORTHY AT CHRISTMAS

The perfect Christmas Gift €

3 December 2013

Pic: Gavin Doyle Photography

Twenty Euro

20

Enniscorthy Gift Voucher

20

€

Nollaig Shona

Date: Issued by:

Sold by:

This voucher can be used to purchase

......................................

ng businesses in Enniscorthy. It goods and services from participati

cannot be cashed.

ENNISCORTHY CREDIT UNION

Date:

IN BUSINESS FOR BUSINESS

......................................

Ten Euro

10

Enniscorthy Gift Voucher

10

€

Date: Sold by: ......................................

Issued by: This voucher can be used to purchase

Date:

ng businesses in Enniscorthy. It goods and services from participati ENNISCORTHY CREDIT UNION

cannot be cashed.

IN BUSINESS FOR BUSINESS

......................................

The Enniscorthy Gift Voucher is the ideal Christmas gift this year as it can be used in approx 80 shops and busin e s s e s i n E n n i s c o r t h y.

Customers can use the vouchers to buy gifts and services in the town thereby supporting local jobs and businesses.

The Gift Voucher scheme is a partnership between Enniscorthy Chamber of Commerce and Enniscorthy Business Association, with the

assistance of Enniscorthy Credit Union.

The vouchers are in €10 and €20 denominations and are on sale in four outlets: Enniscorthy Credit Union, Byrnes Bookshop, Hilltop Dry Cleaners and Frizelle-O'Leary Solicitors. A list of participating shops will accompany each voucher. The shops and businesses accepting the vouchers can be found on the Enniscorthy Chamber website: www.enniscorthychamber.ie n

Enniscorthy Monart Union

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

In The F.D.Y.S. Centre (Boys Club), Island Road, Enniscorthy On Saturday 7th December 2013, 11am-3pm N N N N N N

BOTTLE STALL COUNTRY PRODUCE BRIC-A-BRAC BOOKS & TOYS CAKE STALL LUCKY DIP ENVELOPE

MAIN RAFFLE Raffle for Christmas Cake & Christmas Hamper

REFRESHMENTS SERVED

Lots of fun for all the family!

Mrs. Claus with Emma Killeen, Millbrook, and gran Georgina Killeen, Slaney St. visiting Santa in Kilcannon Garden Centre.

crprint.ie 053 92 35295

€

Panto Time in Rathnure It's Panto time once again in Rathnure as the Panto Society are preparing to bring all the madness and craic to the stage that everyone has come to expect.

Producers John Reilly and Liam Sharkey are putting the finishing touches to their 13th original script called Snow White and the 7 Witches: Jack Frost Bites Back!

The story begins at the Fairyland Oscars, where some very famous faces are winning in their respective categories.

When Santa and Snow White win the most popular awards,

two people are not happy at all: Alice in Wonderland and The Queen of Hearts. Back in the North Pole, whilst Santa is showing off his award, Jack, one of Santa's top elves, makes his sec-

ond big mistake in the factory by mixing up the presents for the children. Santa has to banish him so that he learns how to behave. The evil Queen of Hearts, along with Captain Hook, see an opportunity to get Jack and Alice to help her with her plan to destroy Christmas forever. Snow White hears that she could be in danger, so she must leave her beloved dwarves and hide in Witchingham College, where seven more people await her, the Good Witches. And so, the adventure begins! Can Santa be rescued and Christmas be saved?

This year, over 100 people of all ages came to the auditions, and rarely, if ever is anyone turned away, so, a whole

host of well known characters will appear in the show, with all the added special effects.

With all the usual comedy and magic, the perfect Christmas present of tickets to this years show are on sale from the Box Office on 087-0687801 or 0539255429. The show runs on the following dates and times: December: Thurs 12th (7.45pm) Fri 13th (7.45pm) Sat 14th (6pm) Sun 15th (4.30pm) Mon 16th (7.45pm) Wed 18th (7.45pm) Thurs 19th (7.45pm) Fri 20th (7.45pm) Sat 21st (3pm) Sun 22nd (6pm).

So send all the economic worries away this festive season and get ready for Wexford's most magical show. Also follow it on Facebook for regular updates. n

Producers Liam Sharkey (left) and John Reilly (right) with some of the young cast members.

Slaney Food & Drink

www.slaneynews.com

19

St Senan’s School grows success Cupcakes and Coffee Morning Seventy-two community based food-growing projects, including voluntary groups, residents associations, schools and hospitals are to benefit from grants of up to €5,000 from the GIY (Grow It Yourself) Get Ireland Growing Fund, in partnership with AIB. Following a four month application and evaluation process, GIY announced the winning projects, located in 23 counties. The fund aims to support and encourage the local food-growing movement evident across the country with grants of €500 for the smallest projects to €5,000 for larger ones.

Developed by GIY, in partnership with AIB's Add More

Green Fund, the Get Ireland Growing fund will help underpin the finance necessary to sustain food growing projects around Ireland over three years.

In Wexford, three schools were successful in receiving funding from the programme.

One of these was St. Senan’s Primary School in Enniscorthy.

Well done to school principal Ms Oonagh Rackard and all the green-fingered staff at St Senan’s.

The other Wexford schools were St Anne’s NS in Duncormick and Rathnure NS. The potential for food growing to create opportunities for recreation, therapy and education is recognised by grant awards to a number of health

and wellbeing organisations including the National Rehabilitation Centre, the Irish Wheelchair Association, COPE Galway, Errigal Truagh Special Needs and Midleton Hospital, Co. Cork.

AIB’s Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Jennifer Brady said: “…we are delighted to see the positive impact the Get Ireland Growing Fund has had so far on schools and local community groups all over the country. This fund provides vital support to those who are working towards the development and improvement of their community, and it is inspiring to see first-hand the commitment and passion that goes into this."

A Cupcakes and Coffee Morning in aid of The Princess Leah Fund will take p l a c e o n Tu e s d a y 1 0 t h December 9am-12pm in Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre, Enniscorthy.

All are welcome to go along to this charity event in aid of a very special little girl.

7-year-old Leah Taafe was diagnosed with an extremely rare form of brain cancer last year which only affects one in every four million children.

The Princess Leah Fund was established by Leah's family to raise the money needed to give her the chance to go overseas for treatment.

online at www.idonate.ie/ diveforleah or you can contact Katie Nolan on 085 165 1119 for more information. Hope to see you there! n

that Wexford Cheddar with its “creamy texture” and “flavour that goes on” was the best tasting out of the selection.

This year Wexford Cheddar celebrates its Golden Jubilee and the year has already featured three great awards at Nantwich International Cheese Show. n

The Castle Bar

053 9237493

All money raised will go to The Princess Leah Fund.

If you cannot attend the event but would like to help Leah, donations can be made

Stafford’s Celebrity Chef

Wexford Cheddar is top cheese We were delighted to see Wexford Cheddar come out on top in a blind taste test held on RTE’s Today Show last month.

A panel of tasters, including well-respected food journalist Tom Doorly and TV presenter Dáithí O Sé, agreed

Leah

Best Value Pub Grub in Town WITH LIVE MUSIC AT WEEKENDS

Chef Adrian was in Stafford’s Butcher Shop in Enniscorthy for a week last month sharing his expertise. Adrian trained and worked under Neven Maguire for 6 years. Now he is the Associated Craft Butchers of Ireland in house chef.

FOOD SERVE D DAILY

 Food served daily  Book your Christmas Party here & get Complimentary Finger Food  Karaoke every Friday night  Check our Facebook page for upcoming events THE CASTLE BAR CASTLE HILL ENNISCORTHY TEL: (053) 92 37493

John Redmond in his new Cotton Tree ‘Food For Home’ deli in Slaney Place, Enniscorthy.

The deli specialises in home cooked meals ready to take away, breakfast rolls, sandwiches, fresh bread and baking, and a wide range of delicatessen food such as cheeses and olives, and a great selection of teas, coffees, etc.

ALL LIVE SPORTING EVENTS ON OUR 6 SCREENS

We would like to thank all our customers for their custom in 2013 and we look forward to serving you again in 2014.

Have a happy and holy Christmas.

Based in Enniscorthy, Limetree Catering focuses on impeccable service and delicious food delivered to your door. Our specialties include: Corporate Events, Communions, Cocktail Parties, Dinner Parties… In fact whatever the occasion, “We cater to your needs”.

Contact: Joe on 087-1422767 or 053-9236621 Email: info@limetreecatering.ie Web: www.limetreecatering.ie

FOOD FOOD

FOCUS FOCUS

Clonhaston, Enniscorthy Contact Billy at (087) 2749493

FOOD

Stock up on chicken for your freezer: Rafter Street, Enniscorthy. Tel: 053 9237144.

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Chicken Fillets  Chicken Goujons  Chicken Kiev Chicken Maryland  Whole Chickens And many more items at wholesale prices

Ask about our great deals and special offers ✔ Focus on Quality… ✔ Focus on Service… ✔ Focus on Value…

20

Slaney Motoring

3 December 2013

www.slaneynews.com

caroline gets motoring first look at new Mini and nissan QashQai Citroen C4 Picasso

Every month Bunclody native Caroline Kidd brings you the best motoring content, including features, car reviews, news and more. Caroline has been a car enthusiast since her teens. She now combines her love of cars and writing and contributes a weekly column to www.wheelsforwomen.ie. She has also published motoring content in The Sunday Independent and Irish Country Magazine.

Official pictures of two of the most eagerly awaited arrivals of 2014 have been released.

The next generation Nissan Qashqai will be arriving here in February. The Qashqai has been a huge success for Nissan with 2 million sold worldwide since launch in 2007. The new Qashqai is 49mm longer than the current model and fractionally lower and wider. There is more technology on board including a host of new safety features along with a range of more efficient petrol and diesel engines to choose from. Prices for the range will start from €24,495.

MINI has unveiled the latest incarnation of the iconic car.

At first glance, the new MINI

E

irish car of the year 2014 Nissan Qashqai

cuts a familiar figure with its rounded headlamps, compact proportions and short overhangs over the front and rear wheels. The new model has a more distinctive look over the outgoing model with a restyled grille, front and rear light clusters and sharper creases on the bodywork. It’s grown as well - 98mm longer than the outgoing model, as well as being 44mm wider and 7mm taller.

The interior has been restyled too and gets a series of high tech features. In true MINI style, there will be plenty of scope for customisation from wing mirrors to roof colours.

The car will be available in Ireland from spring 2014 and

prices will start at €22,530 for the Cooper Hatch, €23,830 for the Cooper D and €28,030 for the high-performance Cooper S. The engines have been updated too – the Cooper Hatch

nniscorthy car wash

gets a three-cylinder petrol engine producing 134bhp, the Cooper D gets a three-cylinder turbodiesel with 114bhp and there will be a 189bhp four cylinder unit in the Cooper S. New MINI

The Citroen C4 Picasso has been voted Continental Irish Car of the Year for 2014 by the I r i s h M o t o r i n g Wr i t e r s ’ Association (IMWA). The Citroen C4 Picasso received 377 votes ahead of the VW Golf (364 votes) and the Mazda6 (327 votes). It is the third time that Citroen has taken the overall Continental Irish Car of the Year title, after the Citroen Xsara (1998) and the Citroen C5 (2009).

Members of the IMWA awarded their votes on the basis of key criteria including safety, equipment level, fuel economy, comfort, practicality, ride and road-holding.

The trophy was presented to Frederic Soulier, Managing Director of Citroen Ireland, by Tom Dennigan of Continental Tyres Ireland, who commented: “The Citroen C4 Picasso is an

outstanding car and a worthy winner of our main award. It combines excellent driving qualities with a range of truly impressive technologies, and is a credit to everyone connected with Citroen.”

In addition to the overall award, five other category winners were also announced: Continental Irish Small Car of the Year - Peugeot 2008.

Continental Irish Compact Family Car of the Year - Citroen C4 Picasso.

Continental Irish Family Car of the Year - Mazda6.

Continental Irish Executive / Luxury Car of the Year - Range Rover.

Continental Irish Performance Car of the Year - Volkswagen Golf GTI. The award for Continental Irish Van of the Year 2014 went to the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

Jamie Murphy car Valeting

old Dublin road, Enniscorthy tel: 053-9239050 or 087-2948144

Enniscorthy’s largest vehicle wash service

Cars - Vans - Jeeps - Lorries - Boats Bikes - Tractors - Trailers - Campers etc. ®Open 7 Days a Week ®Very Competitive Prices ®Self Service Vacuum ®VAT Registered Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas

ers m o t s u c r u s a o l m l t a s i g r h C y p Wishin ap H y r e av car Valeting (advance booking required) Vat registered – Fully insured

open Monday to saturday 8am to 5pm old Dublin road, Enniscorthy, tel: 087-2948144

Slaney Motoring

www.slaneynews.com

21

a slick Mover in spirit Grey

I recently drove the new Peugeot 2008 fitted with a 1.2 litre petrol engine, finished in Active trim and retailing at €19,620. I enjoyed the Peugeot 2008’s rugged looks, sweet road manners and practical nature.

Cars like the 2008 that do all the sensible things like seat four to five people in comfort, offer good fuel economy with enough space to bring the dog to the beach for a walk, often don’t set the heart racing. Even the most ardent reader might have difficulty getting to the end of this review before falling asleep at another mention of practicality or boot space…

A strange thing happened with the 2008. Though it looks smart there is nothing very flash about it. The test car was finished in Spirit Grey and from the pictures you can see

that this is a fairly innocuous colour.

But when I brought the 2008 to some of the local beauty spots around Wexford heads turned. People stopped to ask me questions about it. I was surprised that such a subtle car drew so much attention. They were impressed with the 2008’s SUV-style looks and the space inside but of even more surprise was the fact that it was powered by a tiny petrol engine and cost just a whisker under €20,000. There really is demand for cars like this out there.

The 1.2 litre engine in the test car has adequate power and returns roughly 55 miles per gallon. Peugeot Ireland expect 30% of buyers to go for this option. But there is even more good news if you are interested in a petrol model as next year

Caroline Kidd reviews the Peugeot 2008 compact crossover Peugeot are adding two more turbocharged petrol engines to the 2008 line up that will deliver more power and be even more economical.

Other engine options include 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre diesel engines. I had a quick drive in the 1.6 litre 92bhp diesel and it is really excellent so if you do a lot of mileage or tend to do a lot of long journeys, it is probably the best option for you.

Though sitting on the same chassis as the 208 supermini, the 2008 is longer, wider and higher than the hatchback sibling translating to more headroom inside and a bigger boot of 360 litres.

With a swift press of a button the rear seats fold down flat

to reveal 1193 litres of cargo space. The boot has a low flat loading sill that makes getting heavy items in and out less of a burden.

Inside, the 2008 really excels.

It’s very comfortable and there is a good high driving position. The tiny steering wheel is carried over from the 208 and gives the car a feeling of nimbleness. The 2008 is easy to manoeuvre thanks to the compact dimensions and there is good visibility all round. The dash is nicely laid out and the dials simple and easy to read.

While the standard equipment is good with base models getting LED daytime running lights, air conditioning,

is your car ready for winter?

Cars need a little extra care over the winter months to keep their engines singing sweetly into spring. With the onset of the colder weather it’s a good time to check your engine has enough coolant/anti-freeze, and is topped up with oil and water. Check the condition of your tyres and remember that the minimum legal limit for tread depth is 1.6mm. A good set of tyres will increase your car’s grip over the tough road conditions that often come with winter. Make sure the fan and demister inside the car are doing their job. Outside the car check that all your lights and indicators are working. Familiarise yourself with the switches to operate the rear fog lamps and front fog lamps if fitted, and remember that fog lamps should only be used in fog or misty conditions, or in heavy rain, and switched off once the conditions improve. Remember to stick your lights on when visibility is poor, keep a safe distance between you and the car in front and stay safe on the roads this December.

MoTor FaCTors

Your one stop shop for all your motoring needs

ESP, cruise control, six airbags and front electric windows and roof rails, it’s worth forking out the extra bit of money for the Active trim for a few extra treats. The Active model gains a touchscreen with Bluetooth, rear parking sensors, auto wipers and lights, front fog lamps, a leather steering wheel, electric folding mirrors and 16” alloy wheels. If you want a panoramic glass roof you will have to opt for the top of the range Allure model which also comes with the clever option of Grip Control to optimise traction in poor grip conditions.

There are a lot of things to like about the new Peugeot 2008. The car is designed to offer the ride and comfort of a hatchback with the space and versatility of an MPV. It does

all those things very well. The Peugeot 2008 has also just been awarded Irish Small Car of the Year 2014 which is yet another vote of confidence.

Thanks to Peugeot Ireland for providing the car for review.

You can find out more about the 2008 on the www.peugeot.ie or the Peugeot Ireland Facebook page.

Model tested: Peugeot 2008 Active Price: €19,620 (range starts at €18,595) Engine: 1.2-litre VTi, three cylinder petrol Power: 82bhp 0-100km/h: 13.5 seconds Manufacturer’s quoted combined fuel economy: 57.7mpg (4.9 litres/100km) CO2 emissions: 114g/km Tax band: A4 (€200 per year).

ned Kavanagh’s garage Island Road, EnnIscoRthy

Get your car ready for winter

✓ service & repairs on all makes of vehicles ✓ Full diagnostic service ✓ Pre- and Post-nCT ✓ recovery services ned Kavanagh’s is a long established family business offering a personal and friendly service (most of the time!!!)

Drop in or call us on 053-9233601

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas

ParTs dEPoT Old Dublin Road Enniscorthy Co. Wexford T: 053 9234488 E: partsdepot@mail.com

this space could be yours for just €30+Vat tel: 087-2403310

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island road, Enniscorthy. T: (053) 9235933.

22 10 12

Slaney Wexford Scene

3 December 2013

the wexford scene Michelle Dooley Mahon has the attention span of a flea. This has manifested throughout her life in an abundance of appointments, abodes and amours. Born in Wexford in Aul God’s time (when people still stepped off paths for priests) – she has variously been employed as a gynaecological receptionist / breakfast chef / au pair / pub landlady / tourist information officer / hostel warden / café owner / ship’s stewardess / film production assistant and hotel manager. She appears to have forgotten the remainder. She is an introverted socialite and conducts her assault on humanity through her facebook posts (http://facebook.com/michelle.d.mahon) and a Blogger account (Shellakeypookey@blogspot.com), and is the admin on the Facebook page she created to document the progression of Alzheimers in her beloved mother, Siobhan (“Alzheimer Association of Ireland”).

Monet for nothing…

People be mental.

I don't know about you, but if I felt a weakness or a bit of a turn coming on, I would try to faint somewhere safe - preferably onto a bed - but if none presented in the immediate vicinity, I would… oh you know - totter my way queasily to a seat, - feel my way to a wall and slide down it, - stagger through traffic to lie down on the path, - sit on an escalator and lie prone on my back at the top, - my fringe plastered to my forehead in a flop sweat.

I would not collapse onto a painting.

Especially and preferably not one worth a few bob.

Like about €10,000,000.

Yep, Ten Million bucks.

How do you even collapse onto a wall?

Surely, by the very nature of the fact that it was a painting, AND the only one of its kind in the country by the celebrated artist Monet, AND mounted on a wall, presumably at eye level, (maybe it is on the skirting board and is an installation piece for The Borrowers) then it is a super-human piece of physical engineering to hurl oneself at a painting, or fall vertically onto it, unless you are about 9ft 4.

I don't think Andrew Shannon is a giant.

That's his name, folks.

He's a Dub. The other premise is that he did it on purpose.

How angry do you have to be to punch a hole in a painting?

Not even the one in your hallway that you loathe that cost €2.99 in the Chinese Pound Shop.

Was it a momentary lapse?

An uncontrollable rage all consuming and powerful, that left him frothing at the mouth in a perfect storm of temper and anger, and as a critique on the state of the Nation he had no option but to lash out and burst someone, or something.

He had to sustain that rage on the Dart on the way into town though.

The 29th of June was a beautiful day.

The sun shone from a cloudless blue sky and the temperature was 24 degrees at 10am.

Andrew combed his hair in the hall mirror and checked his keys and wallet were in his jeans and closed the door behind

him quietly.

He was wandering around the museum at 11am.

For years he had been a French Polisher, painstakingly tending antique furniture, stripping it back to bare wood, sanding and varnishing, building up layers and layers of Patina, seeing the grain come through the polish with a sense of pride and achievement.

He says it was his heart.

He says his hand did come into contact with the precious painting.

He was in the Millenium Wing of The National Gallery when he came over all unnecessary.

I don't know about you, but if I feel sick I don't run through the house to hurl on the best carpet.

I wouldn't go to a wealthy person’s house and vomit into their Waterford Glass fruit bowl.

People normally try to avoid the good stuff when they are unwell.

They definitely do not fall forwards onto priceless paintings and put their fist through them.

Not unless they are Leslie Nielsen in Naked Gun. In the quiet gallery space where I was once berated by a security guard for receiving a text, how did this happen?

The two tourists who were standing admiring the painting talking shite about the light, and the use of colour, the mastery of Monet and impressionism were rudely interrupted as one of our own crashed onto it.

They are from New Zealand and being used to grappling errant sheep, leaped onto Mr Shannon (48) of Ongar as he lay in a heap on the floor.

In his defence he mentioned his sweaty forehead.

They all had a look.

They agreed he was sweating.

So would I have been if I had just caused 7 million euro worth of damage in a museum.

Right?

The Gardai and the Ambulance arrived at the same time.

They examined him in the Gallery, in the ambulance, in the casualty department, in the Garda Barracks, and then back in the casualty department.

They all agreed his forehead was sweaty.

Other than that he was as right as the proverbial.

As fit as a flea.

Which is more than can be said for the Monet, which cannot be presented at court (unlike most debutantes ) as it is too fragile.

The 2 Kiwi's were in the air flying halfway around the planet to give evidence.

Which surely predicates that they have something worth saying.

Or else what is the point They told the court that they were standing beside the Monet when your man came up.

Mick Williams - the Kiwi - said it was completely deliberate.

- "He had it planned, and it was clearly what he wanted to do, out of the side of me eye, I saw him lift his fist and put it through the painting.

“Then he said he was feeling faint. I grabbed him straight after the event and he had his excuses already thought up” said Mr Williams.

He then pulled and hauled the accused into the middle of the room “so he couldn't do any more damage.”

“I didn't need to support him, he didn't collapse on the floor.

He sat down and stayed upright, he didn't lean forward gasping, white in the face as a person would if they were actually sick, said Mr Williams, who should know about this kind of stuff as he has worked as a flight attendant.

Mr Williams' wife, Dr Toni Ashton, told the jury that Mr Shannon came out of nowhere with a fist like a hammer.

“He lunged at it with quite a lot of force in the body,” she said.

Dr Ashton said Mr Shannon seemed completely “out of it” and that he kept looking at the ground.

He told them he had a heart condition and asked for some water, and indicated his sweaty forehead.

They played the CCTV footage 8 times. It shows our hero entering the Gallery carrying a yellow plastic bag.

Later, a yellow plastic bag discovered at the scene by gardaí was found to contain a can of Nitromors paint stripper.

Just after 11am, Mr Shannon is pictured taking a quick look at a number of paintings.

He leaves the room for a minute, goes back in, walks around a few times and then makes a run for the Monet.

He is then seen putting his right arm out in front of him and seemingly pretending to fall

onto the painting before he is grabbed by a bystander.

Peter Judge, who is not the judge, but a Security Attendant at the National Gallery, said he had been patrolling several rooms housing works by the great masters when he heard the banging and roaring and bawling coming from Room 10.

“I saw a gentleman standing in front of Claude Monet and I said to him – 'Jesus, what have you done?'

He said, 'I want to get out of here,” and I said 'You're not going anywhere, bud'” Mr Judge said Mr Shannon started “abusing” him and telling him he was getting pains in his chest and his feet. He told the accused, “You can't just walk out of here.”

Not on those feet apparently.

And not with a sweaty forehead.

Sean Rainbird, Director of the National Gallery of Ireland, said the Monet could be worth up to 40 million dollars in the states.

The court also heard from Assistant Conservator Elline Von Monschaw, who is leading the team working to repair it said he must have given it a right belt to tear it like that.

“My chest was crushed in on a valve for two years, I was very badly injured and had a lot of surgery, grafts and all,” he told gardaí.

Shannon himself said his chest was crushed in a car crash in Finglas near Premier Dairies, when a woman driver had an epileptic fit.

- “Life is full of surprises” he said.

Mr Shannon repeatedly told gardaí he had been advised by his solicitor not to say any more.

“Somebody said it's on CCTV. Let a jury decide,” he said.

“I've done nothing wrong, I'm afraid of nothing, I have nothing to hide. I'm telling you I've done nothing wrong, I'm not going to say any more,” said Mr Shannon.

When a garda said “Talking is good, you should get it off your chest,” Mr Shannon responded that the garda “should have been a counsellor not a copper”.

On being unemployed he said - “it's all Formica now” and commented that furniture from IKEA was “useful but it's shite”.

The accused told gardaí there were eleven in his family, but said he didn't get on with them.

The case continues on Monday.

i am being harassed by a white van man I took his lordship out for a squint and a piss this afternoon – before settling in to do some actual work – and we lorded it around the streets for a while. The jury is out on which of us is the biggest poser.

Amid a screech of brakes a white van mounts the path and holds up traffic in 3 directions while he shouts will I sell the dog.

I will in my eye says I. After much effing and blinding from the motorists who are doling out looks that would split timber, he drives over the bollard and breasts me mid cross, one boot raised over the path, while he roars at me will I not sell the little aul dog?

He parks sideways and a child with his trousers tucked into his socks jumps out and says howlt on howlt on..........

The man driving has a Bichon Frise on his lap and he holds her up like a talisman.

"This yoke is in use and I'll give you twenty pound to let him cover her" says he.

I feel faint and reel a little.

"Do you mean she is in season and you would like the services of this boy" I ask and wonder how can I run away.

Walter's lipstick IS always

out, and he has a field day with a cushion when he thinks I am typing, but really?

A tryst in the back of a hiace for a score?

I do NOT think so.

"Me wife, God be good to her, had one a them little aul dogs and I'd give you the pick of the litter" said he as he tried to place the Bichon Frise in my arms.

"Let them loose in the kitchen for ten minutes or so, make sure she cant get out".

I need my inhaler.

So many people are hooting and waving he has to shout over the noise.

"We can lave them in the back of the van and we'll wait be the gates" says he indicating the school.

"Fitty Pound, Fitty."

I could buy a lot of things with Fitty Pound, but like, no way dude.

To extricate myself I said a lot of stuff, and told him I would think about it.

"Jasus" says he "Don't think TOO long, or she'll be no use."

He has already rung twice.

Yes, apparently I was so dumbstruck I gave him my ACTUAL number. #eegit – M.D.M.

Email Michelle at: mchllmahon@yahoo.ie

Slaney Business & Finance

www.slaneynews.com

23

Caulfield’s SuperValu Toy Appeal

Monart Shortlisted for World Spa & Wellness Awards Monart Destination Spa, the luxurious adults-only destination spa located just outside Enniscorthy, has been shortlisted for a prestigious World Spa and Wellness Award 2014.

The world guide, which accesses Spas across Asia and Australia, Eastern Europe, We s t e r n E u r o p e a n d Scandinavia, North and South America and the Middle East and Africa holds up firm criteria in order to achieve even a shortlisting.

All of the Spas shortlisted were assessed as part of a

c o m p re h e n s i v e j u d g i n g process that considered factors such as treatment standards, the quality of services and facilities, spa concept and standout features.

Monart Spa, owned by the Griffin Group, has been shortlisted in the ‘Destination Spa of the Year’ category within the entirety of Western Europe and Scandinavia. It is the only Destination Spa in Ireland to achieve a shortlisting.

Commenting on the shortlisting Liam Anthony Griffin, said, “We are delighted to have been short-listed for this

award, it is a world-wide competition and we are thrilled that our continuous investment at Monart is being recognised again.”

Monart Destination Spa is no stranger to award wins having previously been named in the Top 3 Spa Resorts in the world by Conde Nast Traveller. The winners of the 2014 World Spa and Wellness Awards will be announced at a black-tie awards night in London on Sunday February 23, 2014. Further details on Mo n a r t ca n b e f o u n d a t Monart.ie n

C a u l f i e l d ’s S u p e r Va l u Enniscorthy have teamed up with RTÉ 2fm for Operation Santa the nation's biggest ever charity toy appeal in association with the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

SuperValu customers will be able to donate toys at their local Caulfield’s SuperValu store and customers are encouraged to give what they can for their local children in need.

“What really appeals to us about this initiative is that toys are distributed in the locality where they are donated and that way benefit local families in most need” said Anne Marie Caulfield of Caulfield’s SuperValu.

Rory McCauley, Regional President from the St. Vincent de Paul Society Southeast said, “ T h e p u b l i c i n We x f o rd responded with toys, games, vouchers, music, cinema tickets and all types of presents ideal for children and even teenagers, when Santa arrives.

We're expecting this campaign to build on the momentum of last year and we are delighted to have Caulfield’s SuperValu involved to provide a collection point in Enniscorthy. Every year we report an ever-increasing demand for help.... more people than ever are seeking our help. Since 2009, calls for assistance to the St Vincent de Paul have more than doubled. Six years ago (2007), the St Vincent de Paul spent €24 million in direct assistance to people who came to us for help. This year,

Co. Wexford’s economic profile Wexford County Council’s recent economic profile of the county makes interesting reading. Readers can download the 22 page document at www.wexford.ie/wex/Departm ents/CommunityEnterprise/Do wnloads/Title,23299,en.html.

In summation the key issues for County Wexford as per the report are: ● The level of overall educational attainment is lower

●

●

●

in County Wexford than within the region or the State.

The per capita level of Third Level participation is lower than the region and the State Unemployment remains a serious issue within the County with over 18,000 people on the live register The level of infrastructure within the county is being

addressed: particularly industry attractors such as efficient energy including Natural gas which is currently underway to Wexford Town with plans to extend to the other commercial areas; and recent improvements to the level of high speed broadband and internet connection. These need to be continually monitored and improved to ensure

●

●

competitive advantage is maintained.

The lack of available and serviced industrial land remains a key issue for the county.

The level of Foreign Direct Investment in the county is very low. For example, there was 1 visit by a potential investor in 2012, out of 20 visits in total to the South East region. n

Offices for Rent ➤ Enniscorthy Enterprise Centre offers suitable and affordable office space with competitively priced reliable high speed broadband. ➤ Whether you are a one person or more operation, Enniscorthy Enterprise Centre has a suitable space for you to grow your business. ➤ The centre offers more than office space. Its support structures are specifically aimed at new businesses. One of the reasons why new businesses choose Enniscorthy Enterprise Centre is for networking opportunities.

Meeting of like-minded entrepreneurs on an informal basis, sharing problems and discussing opportunities. ➤ The centre also advises potential start-ups e.g.

Enniscorthy Enterprise and Technology Centre advice on funding and financing for their business.

For more information contact: Enniscorthy Enterprise & Technology Centre Milehouse Road, Enniscorthy Web: www.eetc.ie E-mail: info@eetc.ie Phone: 053-9237499

Launching the 2FM and SuperValu annual Toy Appeal are David O'Neill, St. Vincent De Paul, Daniel Kovac, Manager at Caulfield's Enniscorthy, Rory McCauley, Southeast Regional President, St. Vincent De Paul. Pic: Noel Browne.

the figure will be nearly double that at around €40 million.”

“It couldn’t be easier to donate,” said Daniel Kovac, Manager of Caulfield’s SuperValu, Enniscorthy. “Just simply drop in any toy over the next couple of weeks at our store and we will pass them

on to the local Vincent de Paul conferences, who will in turn distribute them in time for Christmas. If it easier we will also accept cash or vouchers which we will pass on to the St Vincent De Paul. No child in our local area should be without a toy this Christmas.” n

Enniscorthy Vouchers benefit business If you are in business and are considering rewarding your staff for their hard work and loyalty this Christmas, or indeed at any other time of the year, or if you are giving gifts this Christmas, please consider buying the new Enniscorthy Gift Vouchers.

Friends and family will also appreciate a voucher they can use in an enormous range of outlets locally.

We understand that under the Revenue Commissioners approved 'Small Benefit Exemption' scheme, your company can award staff up to €250 each as a once-off payment. This €250 payment is completely Tax and PRSI Free, requiring no return on payment when availed of with Enniscorthy Gift Vouchers plus you'll be supporting local jobs and indus-

To advertise in Slaneynews please call the Hotline 087-2403310

try – it's a win, win situation.

There is no administrative fee charged to purchase vouchers and you can purchase them from Enniscorthy Credit Union, Frizelle O’Leary Solicitors, Byrne’s Book Store, and The Hilltop Cleaners in €10 and €20 dominations.

The recipient, will have the opportunity to use the voucher to purchase merchandise or services in upwards of 80 businesses (list provided with vouchers) Local businesses and individuals need to support this proactive initiative to safeguard jobs and industry locally!

Enniscorthy Gift Vouchers is an initiative of Enniscorthy Chamber and Enniscorthy Business Association supported by Enniscorthy Credit Union. n

24

Slaney Ads

www.slaneynews.com

3 December 2013

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Dogs for the Disabled is a unique charity founded in 2007 that train assistance dogs to assist physically disabled children and adults to carry out a range of practical tasks in order to achieve greater 25 Pet News doors, Slaney independence. Every dog is trained sm such as opening/closing gs everyday tasks thinsimple allwith Do to help picking up dropped items, emptying the washingt machine, sending for help or even helping a child grea ithwith with severe walking difficulties to w walk greater ease and balance plus much more. Each dog is trained to cater for the needs of the specific client to enable them to live life with greater gs all th independence.The charity is comprised ofin volunteers and they receive no government funding Do smmainly t to provide their service. ea gr with

www.slaneynews.com

love love

PET aPProVEd

VET DIARY FOR DECEMBER with the Moyne Veterinary Clinic

In this issue of the Slaney News Joe Kavanagh looks at natural remedies and communicating with animals.

Almost 18 months ago I travelled to Arizona to a ranch there to meet a lady I'd met in Scotland on a course. This lady is a professional animal communicator. It was a joy to chat to Joannara as she had such insightful information on how intelligent the animals really are... As if we needed to be told! But that is just it, we need to be reminded of how informed, how in tune and how aware our 4-legged friends are. I've read books written by different animal communicators from different parts of the world and I just became more fascinated how aware they are… and almost how asleep we have been.

When people walk out to a horse in the morning the horse isn't checking to see what kind of hairdo you have today… they're reading your energy field so if you're scared of him he'll read that, if you're annoyed or angry they'll pick up on that too, and the chances are they won't be that tolerant of it either.

Dogs on the other hand tend to be more forgiving. They show us an unconditional love.

That's part of their mission in my mind, they're showing us that no matter what we do they'll still try to be with us. Yes they can develop behaviour abnormalities as any animal rescue person will tell you, but with loving care, attention and sometimes the right remedies they respond beautifully.

These remedies can be flower remedies, herbal remedies or homeopathic. Sometimes a combination is required. Animals respond to these remedies very well and I'm often amazed at how the personality of the dog can just blossom and open up again… almost like a cloud being lifted from them. My very first experience of using a flower remedy was on my very own dog Rudi. Rudi was a rescue who wandered around town and eventually into a pub and I was asked to take her (not via the pub!!!). She made my place her home but was always shy and cowered at the least thing. She was very gentle but very nervous and timid.

I had her about 4 months when I discovered these flower essences and decided to see if they would be able to help her. So I put them into her drinking water and about 2 days later when we went down the fields I noticed her beginning to gallop up, down, back and forth chasing the other dog, prancing, playing. She had found her mojo again. It was like Heineken… "this got to places other beers don't". Since then I've used a huge variety of these essences from all over the world, Australian bush remedies, pacific essences, orchid essences etc and they form an integral part of my work now.

Just like the animals whose innate intelligence is only now being noticed by us thanks to these brave and gifted animal communicators, the plants and flowers have many properties and gifts to offer us too. If we are open and allow ourselves to see life from a different perspective, there's a whole new vista awaiting us. It's a little like the magic of Christmas.

Happy Christmas from all at the Moyne Veterinary Clinic.

Our Services include: ✓ Full blood analysis - haematology - biochemistry ✓ Gas anaesthetic ✓ Digital X-rays ✓ Ultrasound ✓ Dermatological testing ✓ Kinesiology ✓ Bioenergy ✓ Prescription diets ✓ Herbal remedies ✓ Homeopathy ✓ Allergy testing

C&R PRINT, Enniscorthy, are pleased to be associated with Dogs for the Disabled by sponsoring their calendars again this year to ensure that all funds raised will go directly to the charity.

Dogs for the Disabled is a unique charity founded in 2007 that train assistance dogs to assist physically C&R PRINT, Enniscorthy, are to pleased be aassociated Dogstasks for the sponsoring their disabled children and adults carrytoout range of with practical in Disabled order tobyachieve greater calendars again this dog yearisto ensuretothat funds raised will go tasks directly to as theopening/closing charity.

Every trained helpallwith simple everyday such doors, independence. picking up dropped items, emptying the washing machine, sending for help or even helping a child Dogs for the Disabled is a unique charity founded in 2007 that balance train assistance dogs to assist with severe walking difficulties to walk with greater ease and plus much more.

Eachphysically dog is disabled and adults to of carry a range of to practical order greater to children cater for the needs the out specific client enabletasks themin to live to lifeachieve with greater trained Every dogisiscomprised trained to mainly help with simple everyday tasks such as doors, independence. independence.

The charity of volunteers and they receive noopening/closing government funding uptheir dropped items, emptying the washing machine, sending for help or even helping a child topicking provide service. and Damian photographed with Siobhan, severe Breda walking difficulties to walkrecently with greater ease and balance plus much more. Each dog is presenting the calendars Lauryn Tracy and her to cater for theto needs of the specific client to enable them to live life with greater trained assistance dog Graham. independence.The charity is comprised mainly of volunteers and they receive no government funding ENNISCORTHY, to provide their service.

CO. WEXFORD.

crsigns.ie

crprint.ie

crweb.ie

TEL: 053 92 35295 FAX: 053 92 34341 EMAIL: info@crprint.ie

ENNISCORThy, CO. WEXFORD TEL: 053 92 35295 FAX: 053 92 34341 EMAIL: INFO@CRPRINT.IE Siobhan, Breda and Damian photographed recently presenting the calendars to Lauryn Tracy and her assistance dog Graham.

Siobhan, Breda and Damian photographed recently presenting the calendars to Lauryn Tracy and her assistance dog Graham.

crsigns.ie

crsigns.ie

crprint.ie

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crweb.ie

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Pic: Miley Carroll Photography

Goodbye Ollie!

Little Ollie was rescued on 2nd July in Blackwater, Co. Wexford. When found the seal was only one week old; he still had his umbilical cord attached. He was extremely lethargic and very dehydrated.

Miley’s spectacular shots ENNISCORTHY, CO. WEXFORD.

TEL: 053 92 35295 ENNISCORTHY, FAX: 053 92 34341 WEXFORD. EMAIL: CO. info@crprint.ie Well known local photograTEL: 053 92 35295 pher Miley Carroll was FAX: 053 92 recently invited by 34341 skipper EMAIL: info@crprint.ie Martin Colfer to go out to take some pictures off Hook Head. Check out the amazing results on “Hook Head Gallery” on Facebook. n

Ollie

Thanks to the excellent care of Ann and all at Secret Valley Wildlife Park in Clonroche, Ollie was in fantastic shape last month, and about 35kg, when he was returned to the sea where he belongs. n

The Enniscorthy Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals MOyNE VETERINARy CLINIC Old Dublin Road, Enniscorthy.

T: (053)9233187, 9236674. F: (053)9236674.

E: moynevetclinicenniscorthy@gmail.com

OPENING HOuRS (6 DAyS A wEEK): 9.00am–1.00pm and 2.00pm–6.00pm Small animal clinic (please tel. for appointment): Daily 9.30–10.30am, 2.30–3.30pm, 5.00–6.00pm.

24-hour, on-call, Emergency Service: (053)9233187.

The ESPCA would like to take the opportunity to wish all their supporters (and their pets) a happy Christmas. Also, if people would like to make a difference to animals in need in their local area in the New Year, they can text Sinead on 087-7723010 for a membership application form. n

If you have a topic you’d like our vet to address please text us at SLANEY NEWS 087-2403310 or email: slaneynews@gmail.com

To advertise in Slaneynews please call the Hotline 087-2403310

Gift Vouchers Now Available

26

Slaney History

3 December 2013

www.slaneynews.com

Ibar Carty chronicles the 20th century in Enniscorthy & beyond Ibar Carty can provide high quality prints of all photos in this series.

Simply ring Ibar on 087-6729969 or email: ibar_carty@yahoo.ie or call into his premises on Castle Street (beside the Athenaeum).

If you mention the Slaney News he’ll give you 20% OFF the price!

The local St. Patrick's Squash Club is looking for old pics of the club. If you have any, can you drop them into Ibar Carty’s premises on Castle Street (beside the Athenaeum). Thank you.

Ibar Carty has opened up his vast photo archives to the Slaney News. In this 29th of a series, Ibar shares two photos taken in 1995 and c.1980.

Right: St. Mary's N.S. Christmas concert held in St. Mary's Church, 1995.

Above: St. Patrick's Squash Club, c.1980.

All pics copyright Ibar Carty.

If you can supply the names of any of the people in these photos, Ibar and the Slaney News would be delighted to hear from you. For our convenience can you email the names to: slaneynews@gmail.com.

Thank you.

A local contributor looks at life today in Enniscorthy and beyond anothEr sCandal As this column is going to press the story is emerging of fat cat administrators in some hospitals in this country topping up their salaries by literally raiding the profits from the shops on the hospital campuses.

We all know how expensive it is to purchase anything in these shops or to park a car in any of our hospital car parks. But we tend to put up with it because we stupidly believed that the proceeds were at least going to a good cause i.e. the hospital and its patients. Now however we discover that the benefits of such enterprises are more likely to be used to assist someone to change their top range car or maybe pay for a good holiday in the sun for some lucky executive. This is a scandal at any time but is particularly so during a period when the frontline staff in the health service are being crucified by the cuts in wages and the general neglect of the service over the last few years.

We hear the usual condemnation from the usual sources but to be honest we are not interested in condemnation. We want justice.

We want the money paid back and we want less talk about contractual arrangements preventing action against these people. We all had contracts in relation to our wages, pensions and social welfare which the government, present and past, saw no problem in breaking. So our message to James Reilly Minister

for Health is break these contracts, if they exist, and put that money back into the health service.

Compare the above mentioned officials to the generosity shown by J.M. Barrie who invented the character Peter Pan in the late 1880s.

Mr. Barrie gave all the rights to the earnings and royalties of Peter Pan to the Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital in London from which that hospital still benefits today. t r E at M E n t o f o u r fishErMEn The treatment meted out to our fishermen by the State is disgraceful.

These men, and its mostly men before anyone gets excited, go to sea in horrific conditions to ensure that we have fresh fish available on demand 52 weeks of the year. They also make a huge contribution to the economy by the amount of onboard and onshore employment that they are responsible for. They also contribute to the tourist industry as the availability of freshly caught fish is actually one of the reasons that many people visit coastal area restaurants etc.

Despite all of this the power of the establishment, as usual kowtowing to our European partners, seems to spend an inordinate amount of time ensuring that our Irish fishermen dump perfectly good fish overboard rather than bring the catch ashore to distribute it to those

was constructed throughout the country in the last few years (admittedly at great cost to those whose lands it crossed) one wonders why these cables and anything else required were not laid at the same time within the infrastructure of the road. But then again that might require some of our highly paid officials to actually think something out.

Pic: ©Joseph Doyle

View from the Hill who need it. All this at a time when the fishing vessels from other countries can plunder the seas a few miles from our shores without any retribution from our State. Our fishermen deserve fair play and the time has come for our politicians to tell the E.U. that we want this rule scuttled.

Charity CollECtions As we approach Christmas we will be inundated with appeals from various charities seeking help for their particular cause. Realistically most of us have little to give after five years of austerity. The only advice I can give is to totally ignore the professional collectors for obscure charities (which may actu-

ally be genuine) and give to something local where we know that our contribution will be well used.

Eirgrid Masts The people of many parts of County Wexford are up in arms against the proposals of Eirgrid to possibly run a series of massive masts through the county carrying high voltage electricity cables. There are those who say that while we demand better services from utility providers such as electricity and mobile phones we want someone else to put up with the inconvenience of the required infrastructure. And yes there is an element of truth in that. However when you look at the marvelous network of dual carriageway which

strangE faCts We are told that because of the rotation of the earth an object can be thrown further if it is thrown west rather than any other direction. I have never tried this but if that dog next door doesn’t stop barking…

We are also told that people who sleep more have a higher alcohol tolerance… And I thought that the fellow next door was only sleeping it off.

And finally in this segment…

The next time you buy a bag of crisps and complain about the amount of air in the bag – Don’t, it’s not air, it is actually nitrogen and preserves the crispiness and provides a cushion to prevent the crisps breaking up when they are being packed. Makes sense when you think about it.

ChristMas As Christmas approaches we begin to think of the usual requirements regarding presents and so on. We must all do our best to support the

local retail trade where we can particularly when we consider the amount of employment provided by that sector in our county. By doing this we are helping ourselves in the long run by keeping money in our own area to the benefit of all.

Let us try and resist the trip to Dublin and in particular reject the internet (unless using the webpage of a local business) where our money merely goes into the pockets of foreigners who make no contribution to Ireland much less Enniscorthy or County Wexford. and finally As we approach the festive season let’s not lose the run of ourselves with regard to abuse of any of the temptations which are out there.

Moderation in all things is important and if we have elderly neighbours or friends just keep a discreet eye on them. Another important thing in these times is to ensure that if we are more fortunate than others in our vicinity that we not flaunt what we can afford during a period which can be difficult for some. With that may I wish all and sundry a Happy Christmas and New Year and thank all for reading the column for the past 12 months. n We would like to thank our “Regular Contributor” for his always thought-provoking View from the Hill and we look forward to hearing from him again in 2014 – Ed.

Slaney Around the Region

www.slaneynews.com

NEW ROSS NOTES…

BUNCLODY NOTES WhISt Every Monday night in St. Aidan’s Hall.

SLIMMINg WoRLD Join a warm and friendly group.

Thursdays 5.30pm and 7.30pm in Millrace Hotel. Contact Maria 086-4141212 who’s looking forward to seeing you there.

BuNCLoDy CReDIt uNIoN Bunclody Credit Union’s new opening hours: Tu e s d a y, We d n e s d a y & Thursday: 9:15 – 16:15.

Friday: 8:15 – 18:15.

Saturday: 9:15 – 14:15.

BuNCLoDy hoRtICuLtuRAL SoCIety Christmas Floral Decoration demo and workshop with Helen Battigan, Thursday, Dec 12, 2-4pm, Pastoral Centre, phone 053-9376907. Annual Christmas Dinner, Friday, Dec 6, Millrace Hotel, 7.30pm, phone 053-9375994. bunclodyhs.blogspot.ie.

ALCohoLICS ANoNyMouS Meetings are held on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 8.30pm in Brennan’s, Market Square.

Maura Ryan from Bunclody won the novice cup at the 65th annual Roundwood sheep dog trials. Pic: Miley Carroll Photography.

BuNCLoDy VoCAtIoNAL SChooL Bring & Buy Sale in aid of the Philippines, on Friday 6th Dec. from 2pm to 4pm. All are welcome. Your support would be appreciated.

BuNCLoDy LIoNS CLuB Table Quiz on Friday 6th December at 9pm sharp in Redmond’s. Proceeds will go to the Amy O’Neill Trust. Table of four €40. Your support would be appreciated. n

Annual Liam Mellows Commemoration Sunday 8th December. Assemble at Golden Anchor Carpark,Castletown, 2.30pm. Guest speaker Gerry Kelly (Jun. Minister, Northern Assembly). Followed by launch of his book on leading The Great Escape of 1983 from Long Kesh prison. Function/Ballad session. All welcome!

L-R: Rev. Arthur Minion, Wexford Rugby Club President Debbie Carthy, and Rev. Aodhan Marken, pictured at a Service of Remembrance for deceased members at the Rugby Club last month.

FERNS NOTES …

W h At ' S o N I N F e R N S CoMMuNIty CeNtRe Monday: Bingo, 8.30pm - 10pm.

Tuesday: Irish Dancing with Deirdre Furlong 5pm - 7pm.

Pilates adult fitness class with Reiltin 11.15am - 12.15pm. Ph: 087-2399423.

Wednesday: Kettle bells adult fitness class with Reiltin 8.45pm to 9.30pm.

Ph: 087-2399423.

Thursday: Coffee Morning/Meeting point for retired people – come in and have a chat every Thursday

and Friday – free teas and coffees from 10am - 12noon.

Friday: Coffee Morning/Meeting Point for retired people, free teas and coffees 10am - 12 noon.

Weighlighter 6.45pm - 7.45pm.

Knit & Sew 8.00pm to 9.30pm.

Nu-Edge Hip Hop with Damien Breen 5pm - 7pm.

Drop and swap library is open Monday to Friday mornings and Tuesday to Thursday evenings free library.

Handball, Racketball and Badminton by appointment call Danny 087-9961335.

For appointments and other

27

JFk50 ’the hoMeCoMINg’ WINS ChAMBeRS IReLAND ‘gAtheRINg oF the yeAR’ The JFK50 ‘The Homecoming’ has been announced as the winner in the annual Chambers Ireland Awards category for the ‘Gathering of the Year’ 2013.

The award ceremony took place in Dublin on November 13, 2013 and was presented by RTE's Mary Kennedy. In total five County Wexford projects were shortlisted for the 2013 Excellence in Local Government Awards and the county was announced as the winner of three categories including the JFK50 for the Gathering of the Year, Wexford County Library – Discover, Imagine, Grow! was announce as the winner of the best Library Service Category and ‘Rebellion’ at The National 1798 Rebellion Centre won in the Supporting Tourism Category.

The JFK50 ‘The Homecoming’ which took place on June 22, 2013 celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of the visit of President Kennedy to the town of his forefathers. New Ross Town Council lightened the Kennedy Torch at Arlington Cemetery and transferred it to the new Emigrant Flame at the quayside in New Ross. The event produced a four-hour show on the main stage in New Ross.

The event was embraced by the late President’s family who arrived in great numbers and participated in the event.

Commenting on the award win Eamonn Hore, New Ross Town Manager said, “The Homecoming was a magical event; a labour of love, greatly appreciated by the Kennedy family and by the thousands of people from New Ross and from across the world who attended on that most memorable day in June. I would like to thank Chambers Ireland and IPB for their recognition of this fantastic Gathering event.”

Accepting the award, Cllr Niamh FitzGibbon, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Town Council said, “This is a wonderful recognition that of all of the Gathering events, this really was the best.

We were confident that the JFK50 The Homecoming was an amazing event and we know that it had a profound effect on the town.

It is something I will always remember and meeting townspeople I know that this event has instilled so much pride in them. The voluntary involvement and participation by local people was unprecedented so I would like to thank everyone for their efforts, I’m delighted to accept this award on behalf of the town council but mostly on behalf of the people of New Ross.”

On Friday, November 22nd a short ceremony took place at the Emigrant Flame during which wreaths were laid on the Quay in honour of the 35th President whose life was cut short in Dallas in 1963 at 6.05pm Irish time. The event on the Quay paid tribute to the President and all those who left our shores never to return home. This ‘Remembering’ ceremony also featured the premiere of ‘John Fitzgerald Kennedy – The Flame still Burns Brightly’ a specially composed piece of music by distinguished Irish composer Vincent Kennedy.

The piece was commissioned

by New Ross Town Council for the event and covers the themes of JFK’s presidency.

Following the laying of the wreaths a special Mass to commemorate the life of President Kennedy was celebrated in the parish Church at 7pm celebrated

by Bishop of Ferns Dr. Denis Brennan.

NeW RoSS LIBRARy New Ross Library have very kindly been loaned some newspapers of the time, if you would like to have look through the collection please call into New Ross Library during opening hours from 22nd November 14th December .

The collection includes: Irish Independent Saturday 23rd November 1963.

Chicago Tribune Saturday 23rd November 1963.

The Irish Press Saturday 23rd November 1963.

Sunday Independent 24th November 1963.

Irish Independent Monday 25th November 1963.

Chicago Tribune Monday 25th November 1963.

Irish Independent Tuesday 26th November 1963.

Irish Independent Wednesday 27th November 1963.

Irish Independent Thursday 28th November 1963. n

Ferns Youth Ministry Community Centre information call Danny on 087-9961335.

Email: fernscommunity@ gmail.com.

ChRIStMAS MARket Ferns Camogie Club will hold their Christmas Market in The C o u r t y a rd o n S u n d a y, December 8th. All the usual attractions with a variety of stalls, including homebaking, handmade Christmas wreaths and centre pieces available on the day. Santa will also pay a visit to see all the children. This annual event is always well worth supporting. n

The Ferns Youth Ministry channel is now on YouTube. Below is a link to a 5 minute video showing highlights of the Ferns Pilgrimage to World Youth Day in Rio. This is best viewed in Hi Def. 720p. http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=WnHxwr6d9tE Also the four radio programmes on World Youth Day recently broadcast on South East Radio are below.

Programme 1: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=h5aI5Ev3YiQ Programme 2: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Im9FN0JiZEw Programme 3: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=_KUxNdn37Gk Programme 4: http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=P9IKQArQetQ n

Email slaneynews@gmail.com and let us know what’s happening in your area

28

Slaney Sport

3 December 2013

www.slaneynews.com

A Bellefield Constellation

Left: The Rigley Brothers – Jim, Joe and Mossy. Centre: Vinny Daly, Roy Tierney, Nicky Sweetman and Pat Creane. Right: Frankie Farnan, Paul Nolan and Daithi Donegan. Pics: Maria Nolan.

A constellation of Stars gathered at Bellefield gAA Complex on Saturday 23rd Nov to renew old friendships, relive past glories and celebrate historic victories as the Rapparees / Starlights Club honoured 1977 Intermediate Football winners and 1983 Senior and Junior B football teams who actually won both county

titles on the same day.

It was an evening of nostalgia and reminiscence as many of the former players laughed and chatted about scores taken, chances missed, hardship given and received and above all that rewarding sense of achievement that comes with a county medal regardless of the grade.

There was no need for

Racing 795 update Niall Ó Muirí, winner of the inaugural spirit of the club award.

Racing795 celebrated and remembered the year gone by in style at the end of year party held in Bunclody golf Club on Saturday 23rd of November.

The club championship was awarded posthumously to friend and clubmate Martin Mimnagh and accepted by his wife Siobhan who made an eloquent and funny speech on Martin and what the club meant to him. The club was also joined on the night by Martin’s brothers, sister and

mother and many a yarn was shared about this year’s Tour de Frank.

Niall Ó Muirí was the very popular winner of the inaugural spirit of the club award which celebrates a member who demonstrates the ethos of the club of participation and encouragement to others.

Barry Byrne also presented his usual “special” awards for 2013! A special note of thanks to Yvonne Dunne for organising a great night. We’re looking forward to 2014 already!"

musical entertainment in fact it was difficult to stop the banter long enough for John Browne TD to present the Certificates of Appreciation to each player and mentor for their contribution to the Club over the years and of course remind those who were not still involved that they would be welcomed back with open arms as there is always a need

for an extra pair of hands at Bellefield.

The assemblage was tinged with an element of sadness as team mates remembered those who were no longer with us – mentors Noel Matthews, Michael Donegan and Michael Collins, and players Michael Farrell, Michael Foley and Billy Dwyer, but their legacy continues as sons

Valentine Ball GAA Awards on Friday 14th Feb 2014 Wexford gaels will gather together at the talbot hotel Wexford, to pay tribute to the men and women of the gAA who have brought distinction and glory to their county in 2013.

The prestigious event organised by the Wexford Supporters Club is being generously sponsored by Glen Fuels distributors of home and commercial heating oil throughout counties Wi c k l o w a n d We x f o rd .

Company Director Alan Keyes says that he is privileged to be associated with the marvellous sportsmen and women of County Wexford for the second year running and is delighted to have the opportunity to be part of this very spec i a l Aw a rd s C e re m o n y honouring Leinster U-21 Hurling Champions and All Ireland Ladies Football runners up.

The special guest for the occasion is former Kilkenny hurler DJ Carey who will present the Leinster U-21 Hurling Medals and Ladies Football All Ireland runners-up medals.

5 Nominations have been submitted in each category – Senior Hurling and Football,

U/21 Hurling and Football, Camogie, Ladies Football and Handball by an independent Panel of Judges comprised from local Press and Media.

One Award will be made in each of the 5 categories – voting will be open to the public and can be done online on the following sites: www.wexfordgaa.com, www.glenfuels.com, www.facebook.com/ glenfuelservicesltd, www.facebook.com/wexgaa.

This is the second year that Glen Fuels have generously sponsored the GAA Awards.

Acknowledging the invaluable contribution of Alan Keyes and Glen Fuels Chairman of the Supporters Club Arthur Quinn would like to thank them for their wonderful support of and interest in Wexford GAA. To l a u n c h t h e E v e n t Wexford Supporters Club and Glen Fuels are coming together at the Talbot Hotel Wexford on Friday 6th Dec at 7.30pm where the Nominees in each category will be announced and voting will commence.

– Maria Nolan, PRO Wexford Supporters Club 087-6644603 marianolan007@gmail.com

Sponsor Sam McCauley for providing gift bags for all who attended and well done to the Organising Committee of Ed Doran, Pat Hall, Maria Nolan and Padraig Hall who made it possible for these old friends and comrades to come together and remember when their Stars shone the brightest!

– Maria Nolan

a n d n e p h e w s c u r re n t l y involved with the Club gathered to accept their Certificates.

The tall tales of wondrous exploits grew as the night developed – there was praise and criticism and some lamentation for lost youth but overall it was a most enjoyable and social occasion.

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29

Enniscorthy Chess Club We’re delighted to hear that the junior side of Enniscorthy Chess Club club is flying, winning prizes at every event they attend. An adult club will be starting in the new year, also on Tuesday nights, beginning at 8pm on Tuesday 7th Jan. Venue to be confirmed, but details will be on the club’s website and Facebook page, or people can ring 087 6868410.

Enniscorthy Chess Club was founded in February of this year. We are getting more and more recognition at national level for the quality of our players, many of whom regularly attend tournaments around the country. ŚĞƐƐ ŝƐ ŬŶŽǁŶ ĂƐ ͞ƚŚĞ ŐĂŵĞ ŽĨ ŬŝŶŐƐ͟ ĨŽƌ ŝƚƐ ƐƚƌĂƚĞŐŝĐ ƉůĂŶŶŝŶŐ͕ ĂŶĚ ƐŽŵĞ of the many benefits of the game are that it: -

improves memory and concentration ŚĞůƉƐ ƉƌĞǀĞŶƚ ůnjŚĞŝŵĞƌ͛Ɛ disease increases creativity helps develop problem-solving skills

Ernesto DiFiore, Nick Murphy, Pat Goff and Paddy Dobbs at Enniscorthy Golf Club.Unlike many countries, chess

is not classed as a sport in Ireland so does not qualify for any funding.

Therefore we are holding a fund-raising chess marathon, 12 noon to 6pm on Saturday 2nd November, in Market Square, Enniscorthy, where members of the public can compete against our club members, take part in simultaneous chess, play a game of giant chess, and Martin Skelly ofget some free coaching!

Enniscorthy U-14 Rugby enniscorthy and kilkenny u14s produced a close encounter in their Leinster League game played in enniscorthy on 16th November. this was a hardfought contest demanding huge effort from both sides with kilkenny eventually emerging victorious on a 19-12 scoreline.

Once again Enniscorthy were forced to line out without a number of their top players due to injury and other commitments.

The omens weren't good when Kilkenny ran in a try with only 6 minutes on the clock following an unfortunate knock-on by Enniscorthy. However, the home team bounced back in the nineteenth minute with a great try from Niall Parker following a powerful Enniscorthy scrum. At that stage Enniscorthy were looking good but luck deserted them just before half-time when Kilkenny ran in their second try despite a wonderful tackle by Luke Harrington in the build-up.

Things went from bad to worse when straight from the

Leinster Council

Below are some examples of how your sponsorship will benefit us, but any amount that your budget

presents the kick-off for thewould second halfappreciated. the allows be greatly Our supporters will be listed on our website, on our Facebook page Leinster Cup to on a poster at the event. hoping for coverage in the local newspapers.

Kilkennyand full-back secured pos-We are alsoMichael Grace, captain of session and managed to arun ΦϱϬ ʹ purchase tournament-standard chess clock The Rower Inistioge. through Enniscorthy's hesitant ΦϭϬϬ ʹ cover tournament entry costs for a team of four offset coaching defence to secureΦϭϱϬ ʹ Kilkenny's third fees for the club ΦϮϰϬ ʹ pay for ahave coaching venue for one 12-week term try. A lesser team would buckled at that stage but You can see further details about the club on our website, www.EnniscorthyChessClub.com and our Enniscorthy regrouped and for Facebook Page www.facebook.com/EnniscorthyChessClub. long periods of the second half If you would like to support our club, you can send a cheque (payable to Enniscorthy Chess Club) to:captain Michael Sincere thanks to all at The Rower dominated the game and were Bellefield gAA – members Grace who also applauded the rewardedEnniscorthy for their Chess efforts when, Club, of Rapparees/Starlights who venue and the people on site.

Jenniescrum Frizelle,and recyfollowingc/o a good 10 Ard Uain,of an ensuing had the pitch and premises Thanks also came from Wexford cling off the base Greenville Lane, in pristine condition on County Chairman Diarmuid ruck, Fiachra Hourihane ran in a Enniscorthy, Sunday 24th November for Devereux and County Secretary great try Co. which he himself conWexford. the Intermediate hurling Margaret Doyle. verted. That left the scoreline at Leinster Final between Buffers It is totosee Bellefield Your support would be greatly - and we would be delighted if you could join us lovely on the day 19-12 in Kilkenny's favour with appreciated players and enjoy a gameAlley of chess! and the Rower Inistioge. get such acclaim – it augurs plenty of meet timeour still on the clock.

Compliments piled in for well for us as a popular venue Try as they might, however, the pitch, the excellent adja- and it adds another dimenEnniscorthy just couldn't manage cent car park, the profession- sion to the town and once again a third try which, with a conalism of officials and the my sincere thanks to all version, would have earned them hospitality and courtesy shown. involved in the preparation a deserved draw.

Kilkenny Radio was lavish and who worked hard on the Following a number of narrow defeats this season confiin its praise for Bellefield as day. Bellefield and Enniscorthy dence remains high in the were the management team take a bow! And commiseraEnniscorthy camp and coach, of The Rower. Martin Skelly of tions to Buffers Alley – it would Colin Cahill, and his squad can the Leinster Council paid trib- have been lovely to see you justifiably look forward to the ute to the facilities when pre- win. remainder of the season. n senting the Leinster Cup to – Maria Nolan

Well Done Bellefield

Boxing success for John John tyrrell from the Sacre Coeur club in enniscorthy secured the All-Ireland Intermediate 86kg gold medal at the National Stadium, Dublin, on Friday 22nd November, when he defeated Patrick McDonagh from the Sunnyside Club in Cork. he won by a majority decision in a nail-biting decider, and was overjoyed when his hand was raised to bring back gold to the enniscorthy club.

He had won his quarterfinal and semi-final the previous weeks, and though they were close encounters, they stood him well in his quest for All-Ireland glory.

He had plenty of support on the night, made up of fiancee, family, friends and members of the Sacre Coeur club. Head Coach, Frankie Kirwan and club coach Jack Jackson were not only there for the finals but in the gym during the cold winter nights training and coaching and are over the moon with his victory.

Frankie says, “the club is going from strength to strength and I’m sure there will be lots more Leinster and National titles coming in the future.”

John has won many honours for club and country under-age, and after a break

John Tyrrell

from the sport, has won the National Army championships for the last two years, and finally reaching the pinnacle with All-Ireland club success.

It’s the first Intermediate All-Ireland for Sacre Coeur, with Pa Whelan beaten in the final previously. Pa has also been a huge help along the road, training and coaching John as well as his coach for the Kilkenny army boxing team.

John’s only regret is that his coach and friend for many years, and co-founder of the club, Paddy Murphy was not there to see him on his special night. We know Paddy would be very proud. n

30

Slaney News

eNNISCoRthy eye a column by Joseph Doyle

boyS IN blue fIghT IT ouT for worThy CAuSe Congratulations to local garda gavin tracey, event organiser of the recent Blue Light Fight Night in the Riverside Park hotel in which local members of the gardai came face to face with local firefighters in the boxing ring.

The event was in aid of Irish Dogs for the Disabled.

Gavin’s daughter 5-year-old Lauryn was a recent recipient of an assistance dog named Graham from this charity.

In total 12 gardai and 12 fire brigade personnel swapped their uniforms for boxing gloves and headgear for this charity event known as white collar boxing.

A huge crowd packed the Riverside Park Hotel to see some great night’s boxing.

Among the audience to cheer on the scrappers was 5-yearold Lauryn Tracey from Oulart and her new dog for the disabled named Graham.

Lauryn’s dad Gavin noted

that this was a great occasion and I believe it was well worth a tenner. Gavin said the financial return greatly exceeded his expectations.

Speaking to the Slaney News Gavin said that the night was a huge success raising over €25,500. He went on to say that the charity is very pleased with the turnout and that it was their best charity night ever.

The Riverside Park Hotel said it was the best crowd they had all year at any function.

Graham is leaving Lauryn in the new year for training so he can help her adapt more and one of the tasks he will be assisting her with is unloading the washing machine. To train a dog like Graham costs €15,000 and is not government funded, said Gavin. The charity is Dogs for the Disabled and not guide dogs for the disabled, explained Gavin.

Over €25,500 was raised by the event – a huge sum by any standards. The possibility of making it an annual event is now being considered.

Among the special guests on the night were soccer leg-

end Paul McGrath and international boxers Adam Nolan and Jim Sullivan, as well as Sky News reporter – local man Enda Brady. Well done to all involved in this hugely successful event. n

hope – with a tree festooned with wishes and intentions.

Included in the evening, there will be a ceremony of ‘letting go’ where the participants will be encouraged to let go of any negative thought pattern, or habit, that may be

CoNgrATulATIoNS  Congratulations to Enniscorthy’s All Ireland amateur boxing champion John Tyrrell.  Christening – Fiacra Ryan Jnr in Caim.

Fiacra Ryan the 5th

   

  Happy birthday to Ann Doyle on 6th December and Bessie Barry on 7th December.  Birthday Remembrance of Breda Ryan on 8th December.  Happy birthday to Anne Lawlor Hughes and Sinead Furlong. Also Sandra McKeown whose birthday is on 10th Dec

Gavin Tracey and daughter Lauryn







and Orla Breen on 6th December.

Tomas O’Leary birthday on Christmas Eve. Happy 41st birthday Sinead Wall, Barrack Street, on New Year’s Day. Congrats to the Starlights U21 team that beat Ferns in a replay recently.

Happy birthday to Roisin Hughes who’s three on Christmas Eve and also to Brendan (mog) Maguire.

Happy birthday to Jake O’Neill on 6th Jan. Happy birthday to Alicia Whelan who’s 3 around this time and also her granny Marie Whelan whose birthday is on the same day.

Happy belated birthday to Delphine Richie and not to forget the man himself Baby Jesus.

Happy Christmas to all our readers.

– Joseph Doyle

A Two-MoNTh ChAlleNge

Hope Winter Solstice Ceremony on 21st December 2013, the hope Cancer Support Centre will host the Winter Solstice Ceremony of Light and healing. this event will take place in the National heritage Park, Ferrycarrig, Wexford at 7.30 pm.

This ceremony is designed to celebrate the shortest day of the year – the day when there is more darkness than light. On the evening of the 21st December, we will symbolically bring our Light into the darkness in an evening of meditation, music, song and symbolism.

The evening begins in darkness with a tree that is bare of decoration and light – the night will end full of light and

3 December 2013

www.slaneynews.com

holding them back in their lives and keeping them from reaching their true potential as human beings.

Participants are asked to bring along a candle (one that can easily be held in the hand).

Also bring a short written note

Gethyn Gibson with some of her helpers from Colaiste Bride at the Dulux Let’s Colour Project at the Hope Centre, Enniscorthy.

of some negative thought pattern that they are willing to let go of. It should be written as …’I am now willing to let go of….’. Bring along a Christmas tree decoration to symbolise an intention and a ribbon to symbolise a wish for another person.

The decorated Tree of Hope will remain in the Heritage Park over Christmas and the New Year and anyone who wishes, can add to the decorations which symbolise wishes and intentions.

The Hope Cancer Support Centre has been hosting this Winter Solstice Ceremony for the past number of years and it truly has to be experienced to fully appreciate the impact

Joseph Doyle, an enniscorthy man with Cystic Fibrosis, has taken up a two-month challenge. Joseph is raising funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Association of Ireland Co. Wexford Branch by staying out of the chip shop for two months and as an added bonus says he’s also off crisps and chocolate. Like giving up smoking, Joe has taken on this challenge single-handed and is collecting along the way. “It’s hard, yes, but I’ll do it”, explains Joe. So where did he get this bizarre idea from? “Well it was put to me by the dietician and physio in Vincent’s first. Then I heard about the 2 month chal-

lenge for charity.” The challenge is to stay out of the chipper for t w o m o n t h s f ro m 3 rd o f November at 1pm until the 3rd of January. Joe says it’s not easy when people are eating like pigs in front of him and he’s off the junk food and Christmas time will be a particularly hard test. Keep it up Joe, we’re behind you! n

VIVA are having a vinyl-only night to mark their 5th birthday on New year’s eve in Wilson’s Bar, enniscorthy.

Kids, don't forget the Christmas tradition – baby Jesus is not to go in the crib until 12 o’clock midnight on Christmas Eve as he was not born before then.

this simple ceremony can have on our lives.

There is no cost for the evening as it is a gift from the Hope Cancer Support Centre to the community. There will, however, be donation buckets for anyone who wishes to make a donation to Hope.

Come along and join us on the night of 21st December and be part of something really special.

Looking forward to seeing you all on the 21st December at 7.20pm in the N a t i on a l H e r i t a g e P a r k , Wexford. n

WexFactor finalists Amanda and Ashling Fitzpatrick

Bereavement Support Morning There is something about Christmas that heightens all our emotions. Most of us have very strong memories of Christmas – both good and bad. The hype that begins around the end of October and builds week by week in the run up to Christmas can make it very difficult for those who have been bereaved.

The first Christmas can be a particular challenge. It would be tempting to try and ignore the fact that Christmas is approaching, but it may be helpful to acknowledge this time of year and try to make a plan for surviving what may be a very difficult time.

The Hope Cancer Support Centre, Enniscorthy is hosting a support morning for those who have been recently bereaved on Tuesday 10th December 2013 from 10.30 to 12.30.

Slaney Arts

www.slaneynews.com

Local man nominated for major book award Andrew hughes’ first novel The Convictions of John Delahunt was shortlisted for Crime Book of the year at the Bord gais Irish Book Awards 2013.

31

And the Happy Ever After continues

The award went to The Doll’s House by Louise Philips but Andrew can be very proud of the fact that his first novel was nominated for such a prestigous award. n

Support the artS… Wexford arts Centre 053-9123764. the presentation Centre, enniscorthy 053-9233000.

The Little Book of Wexford by Nicky Rossiter. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

LIBRARy NeWS…

See: www.wexford.ie/wex/Departments/Library/ Whatson/ for details of what’s on in your local library. you can also check out your local library on Facebook.

Carmel Harrington was in the Riverside Park Hotel on Sunday 17th Nov for her first ever book signing as part of the Strawberry Fayre fundraiser

New Wexford author Carmel harrington just cannot believe her luck as she whirls from one roller coaster to another in the aftermath of the launch of her new book beyond grace’s rainbow.

Carmel was in the Riverside Park Hotel on Sunday 17th Nov for her first ever book signing as part of the Strawberry Fayre fundraiser – Strawberry Tales and Afternoon Tea – and was delighted with the response to her wonderful novel – selling and signing over 50 copies on the day with some enthusiasts coming from as far away as Waterford to meet with her and chat to her about her work.

In the past few weeks Carmel has been interviewed

by South East Radio and Beat FM, been nominated for and won – Best Romantic ebook of 2013 travelling to London to receive her Award and has realised her lifelong dream of seeing her book on the shelves in book stores. A feeling she says that is comparable to giving birth – you create something and then you give life to it. And Beyond Grace’s Rainbow certainly seems to have taken on a life of its own with peop l e f ro m a s f a r a w a y a s Australia contacting Carmel to see if she is planning to do a tour down under with the book!!! Am I what??… most definitely Carmel says – if they buy my book in Oz then I will be there or anywhere else for that matter!

On Sunday Carmel spoke to the Strawberry Fayre Afternoon Tea Dance audience about her magical journey to date and with her second book due out in February and another one in the pipeline and a play written to booth she has no idea where that journey has yet to take her but like Alice in Wonderland she is looking forward to the whole rabbit hole experience. Carmel is a soft spoken mother of two who is simply astounded with her whirlwind success and is really enjoying the encounter.

Before reading an extract from Beyond Grace’s Rainbow Carmel thanked the audience, her husband Roger and family for all their help and support, Anne Gilpin and the

Strawberry Festival Committee, her publisher Harper/Collins and Damian Byrne of Byrne’s Bookshop for stocking and promoting the book and she even had a special mention for yours truly and Slaney News.

Beyond Grace’s Rainbow is available at Byrne’s Bookshops Enniscorthy and Wexford and is a truly good read and would make a lovely Christmas gift – so go out now and get your copy before they are all sold out.

Oh! And by the way watch this space for more news about this unstoppable author – I have a feeling we are going to hear a lot more about her in the not too distant future.

– Maria Nolan

New Slaney Writing…

LADIeS oF LoNDoN (A sailor’s song)

by Martin Joseph byrne Lean your head o’r On wind, upon air Lark of the Thames Wing swathe upon air I follow you truly O’r heather, o’r Sea To the dark streets of London Away o’r the sea Fair Ladies of London Ne’er a dark street compares With rings on your fingers Starlight in your hair Come softly foot falling Into my chambers lea Fare-de-well my darling What is let be Give to pence a price Your self to me On the dark streets of London A fare, fair trade to me

Come lean your head o’r Pipes of the forest sing To have loved and love lost Is but a handsome thing Fair Ladies of London Ne’er a dark street compares With rings on your fingers Star light in your hair Come softly foot falling Into my chambers lea Fare-de-well my darling What is Let be Tour-a-i-Addie Tour-a-i- ay Tour-a-i-Addie i-Addie-i-ay n

thurs 5th December 7pm Bunclody Library

local Placenames a talk by local historian Fr. Séamas de Vál free and all welcome booking advisable

I APoLogISe

by Donal Cullen I apologise, for my sins.

I apolgise, for the way I am.

I apologise, for my hair style.

I apologise, for my cat.

I apolgise, for my smelly feet.

I apologise, for my teeth.

I apologise, for the weather.

I apolgise, for drinking in bars.

I apologise, for the mission to Mars.

I apologise, for the Dead Kennedys.

I apolgise, for the hungry years.

I apologise, for World War I. I apologise, for scary monsters.

I apolgise, for sins and sinners.

I apologise, for VHF, MW and LW radios.

I apologise, for my dinner.

Dennis Collins, Retin Murphy, Andy McGarry at the opening of the 11th Wexford Artists Book Exhibition at The Denis Collins Gallery, Custom House Quay, Wexford. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

And if I apologise any more I shall be translated into an Apologetic oblivion and returning To the human state without Having as much as an apologetic Streak in my body. n

Please send your poetry, prose, pics, reviews etc to: slaneynews@gmail.com

Billy Roche has just published a new book that celebrates the Spiegeltent and its mysterious Ringmaster Maynard Perdu.

Billy Roche will read from ‘The Diary Of Maynard Perdu’ in Enniscorthy Library on Thursday 5th December at 7.00pm. All are welcome.

OUT AND ABOUT IN ENNISCORTHY 28 May 2013

Strawberry Queen, Leanne Hore, with WexFactor finalist Irena Mernagh Roche. Pic: © Joseph Doyle.

Templeshannon Ladies Community Group celebration night last month. Back row: Ann Ita Cody (CSP Manager), Tracey Kennedy, Gail Blackburn, Sandra O’Rourke, Josephine Feeney, Rita McDonald, Catherine Byrne & Catherine Kenny. Front Row: Mary Murphy, Tina Broaders, Catherine Redmond & Mary Moorehouse.

Pictured at the launch of Irish Presidency of the EU: A Youth Perspective programme's final report in Dublin was Youth Media and the Irish Presidency participant Enniscorthy native, Dave Nowak, with Executive Director of European Movement Ireland Noelle O'Connell and Senator Jillian van Turnhout. Pic: Conor McCabe Photography.

Martin Butler photographed recently at The Duffry, Enniscorthy. Pic: Donal Cullen.

WexFactor 2013 participants and organisers. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Co. Wexford Down Syndrome Christmas Party in The Riverside Park Hotel on Sunday 1st December: Niamh and Meadbh Whelan and Lilly Fenlon, Enniscorthy.

Chloe Ryan,Glenbrien, Santa, Ellie Callaghan, Ballymurn and her dad Damien at Kilcannon Garden Centre.

Looking good at 50! Left: Billy and Maria Sinnott celebrated Billy’s 50th Birthday in Enniscorthy Golf Club last month. Right: Family and friends celbrate Billy’s big 5-0.