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59 - Wednesday - 4 March 2015 also available Your local FREE community newspaper mallIssue groups and refresher classes

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St. Patrick’s Day, 17th March.

The programme starts at 2.00pm with entertainment in the Market Square consisting of music, dancing and children's entertainment with free facepainting.

At 3.00pm the Street Parade commences with lots of local groups, floats, vintage machines, etc. Two marching bands will lend colour to the occasion: the Northfield Caledonia Pipes & Drums, Birmingham, and St. Colman’s Pipe Band, Ballindaggin.

Keep an eye out for the recently established Enniscorthy Historic & Re-enactment Society which will be participating in the parade this year.

The town is very grateful to the small committee under the chairmanship of Sean Doyle which year after year organises one of the best parades of any town in the country.

See page 12 for more information on Enniscorthy’s St. Patrick’s Day parade.

We l l d o n e a l s o t o Enniscorthy & District Chamber of Commerce which is running

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Fantastic Offers at Enniscorthy Golf Club for new members and former members…

Full Annual Golf Membership for 2015: a St Patrick’s Day Window Display competition kindly s p o n s o re d b y A I B B a n k Enniscorthy with €300 in prizes.

As always St Patrick’s Day is a good time to check out Enniscorthy’s Castle and the 1798 Centre. Enniscorthy Castle will be open from 12pm to 5pm on St. Patrick's Day (last admission will be at 4.30pm). The National 1798 Rebellion Centre will be open from 12pm to 5pm (last admission will be at 4pm).

And for the more energetic among us don’t forget the Davy Fortune Memorial Fun Run starting at 11.00am at the S h a m ro c k s G A A c l u b .

Registration from 9.30am. Entry fee €5. Under 16s free. n

Age 19-25 €300* – Age 26-35 €500* Age 36+ €600* – NO Joining Fee

Interested? Join us for one of our upcoming Open Days including a FREE round of golf and a FREE Golf Clinic with resident professional Stephen Fitzpatrick.

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Slaneynews: April issue will be out on Weds 1st April 2015

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Slaney News

4 March 2015

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THE SLANEY NEWS IS NOW AVAILABLE IN 220 OUTLETS!

comment Congratulations to Enniscorthy’s Johnny Mythen on being selected by Sinn Féin as their candidate in Co. Wexford for the next General Election. With Sinn Féin riding high in the national opinion polls and with two sitting deputies in Enniscorthy already it’s not beyond the bounds of possibility that Enniscorthy could have three TDs after the next election and, as we all know, the town could certainly do with as much representation as possible at a national level.

We are less than two weeks away from St Patrick’s Day and as always the Enniscorthy parade will be the centrepiece of the day attracting a huge number of visitors to the town. Let’s hope everybody enjoys the day responsibly and leaves the town clean and tidy afterwards.

As always there’s lots of positive news to report in this issue such as the official re-opening of the beautifully restored Church Institute, plus updates on lots of social and sporting events such as the Gaelscoil Fun Run, Special Needs Expo, Hope & Dream, Dragon Sportive, etc. We also look back on a major national exhibition which has just finished in Enniscorthy Castle and we help celebrate 20 years of Enniscorthy Toastmasters.

– Frank Corcoran

10,000 copies per issue of which 5,000 are distributed door-to-door in Enniscorthy town and 700 in Bunclody.

The balance is distributed to over 220 drop-off points: ENNISCORTHY: Doyles Bar, The Duffry Gala Duffry Hope Centre Copper Pan The Holy Grail Stamps Serenity Place Storm Hair Design Cotton Tree Cafe Crew Cuts Vapor Nation George’s Hair Salon Impresso Cafe Galo Chargrill IWA Charity Shop Bart’s Charity Shop Sue Ryder Charity Shop Millstream Fish Shop Butcher’s Cottage / Bakery Bridget’s Hair Salon Brand U Get IT Fixed Rackards Little Spoon Coffee Shop Danny’s Barber Shop Ultimate Nutrition Cutting Edge Curls Flowercraft South East Animal Rescue Robbies Pub Mary Elizabeths Delaneys Newsagents My Café Coffee Shop Abbey Centre Bizzy Fingers California Sun Tan Orchard Fruit & Veg Shop Polish shop, Duffry Hill Put A Bow On It Pet Supplies

Mrs Quinn’s Charity Shop –––––––––––––––––––– Wallace’s Alba Shang Hai Golden City Riverside Park Hotel Via Veneto The Bailey TOP shop/filling station Greenville Stores Wilson’s Bar ABC Takeaway Holohan’s Pub –––––––––––––––––––– Kavanagh’s Pharmacy Dawson’s Bar Uptown Kuts Enniscorthy Cabs Aideen Vonno Hilltop Dry Cleaners Stitch Dat Kiss & Makeup Presentation Centre SuperValu Pettitts –––––––––––––––––––– Quik Pick, Ross Road Doyles Checkout, The Duffry Bellefield GAA complex Mace/Maxol Bellefield CWCWE Enterprise Centre Enniscorthy Voc. College Co. Wexford Education Centre –––––––––––––––––––– C&R Print McGuinness Lambert Smiles Dental The Barber Shop The Secret Hair Artistry Screaming Canvas Treacys Hotel Merrythought House Toss Kavanagh’s TK Cabs O’Callaghan’s Centra T’shannon Community Centre J Donohoe Hardware

Chapel Lane Service Station D&G Hair Studio Butchers Express Dept of Agricuture Offices Topaz Service Station Drinagh Garden Centre Alcast Motor Factors

ONLY 220 MORE DELIVERIES TO DO !

–––––––––––––––––––– Main Post Office IFA Centre Wexford Local Development SuperValu Abbey Square Petopia Enniscorthy Credit Union Enniscorthy Castle Castle Bar Ashmore Mortgage & Financial Services Frizelle O’Leary Solicitors Property Team M.A. O'Leary Burger Macs Hope Shop –––––––––––––––––––– Sherry FitzGerald O'Leary Monica’s Hair Salon Phoenix Estates Kennys for Bikes –––––––––––––––––––– Library St John’s Hospital

1798 Centre –––––––––––––––––––– Mackin Travel Cash Encounters Scissors Sisters Finishing Touches Post Office at Cathedral Town Council Offices River Restaurant Wickham Bros Community Info. Service Toffee & Thyme O’Brien’s, Court Street Court Street Dental Clinic Court Street Medical Centre Turkuts Citizens Advice Centre Byrnes Bookshop –––––––––––––––––––– Evolv John Browne TD Office Paul’s Shoe Repair –––––––––––––––––––– Studio 5 Bega Barber Paul Kehoe TD Office Mick’s Barber Shop Paula Treacy Auctioneer Karl Martin –––––––––––––––––––– Gala Express, Old Dublin Rd Moyne Veterinary Clinic Pump Palace Gym Co. Council Offices Kilcannon Garden Centre Superdine Tile Store n More Old Dublin Road fuel depot Quarrypark Family Practice –––––––––––––––––––– Enniscorthy Golf Club –––––––––––––––––––– ADAMSTOWN: Cullen’s Gala.

BALLAGHKEEN: Donohoes Foodstore BALLYCARNEY:

Jenny’s Diner BALLYEDMOND/WELLS: Downes Gala Wells House.

BALLYMURN: Peter Doyle’s Costcutter Ballymurn Credit Union.

BLACKWATER: Londis Post Office BOOLAVOGUE: Post Office Fr Murphy Centre.

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 Chevue Studio Totally Pampered Dols Beauty Clinic DNG O'Connor & O'Connor 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: Annie’s Cafe & Restaurant Beauty by Sarah Centra Applegreen Ferns Barber Post Office Bolgers Hardware Courtyard Rynhart Hair Design Ferns Community Centre Ferns Castle Ferns Crafts Launderette Cre’s Hair Salon Daybreak.

KILMUCKRIDGE: Londis Centra Kates Coffee Shop & Deli 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: Codd’s Shop Pat Murphy Oil WEXFORD: Maldron Hotel O’Briens, Redmond Sq O’Briens, Main St Nosh & Dosh, Redmond Sq Yard Restaurant Wexford Arts Centre Wexford General Hospital Wexford Service Station, Newtown Road.

The Slaney News has reached its limit of 220 outlets. If you would like the Slaney News to be delivered to an outlet not listed above please let us know (slaneynews@gmail.com) and we’ll gladly add that outlet to our waiting list.

the Conor Byrne Memorial hurling Match SLANEY NEWS, CLONHASTON, ENNISCORTHY Tel: 087-2403310 slaneynews@gmail.com www.slaneynews.com Facebook: “Slaney News” Online: www.issuu.com/slaneynews/docs 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

BALLYDUFF

CLOHAMON

CAMOLIN

KILMYSHALL

FERNS

CASTLEDOCKRELL

BALLINDAGGIN

KILTEALY

MARSHALSTOWN

KILLANNE

RATHNURE

COURTNACUDDY

POULPEASTY

CLONROCHE GALBALLY

ADAMSTOWN

THE HARROW

BALLYCARNEY

MONAGEER

ENNISCORTHY

GLENBRIEN BREE

RAHEENDUFF OULART

BALLYEDMOND

KILMUCKRIDGE

BALLAGHKEEN

BALLYMURN

OYLEGATE BALLYHOGE

MONAMOLIN

BOOLAVOGUE

BLACKWATER SCREEN

CURRACLOE

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.

Gaelscoil Inis Corthaidh Drumgoold Enniscorthy

The Enniscorthy CBS school friends and Oulart The Ballagh clubmates of the late Conor Byrne, who died so tragically in a road traffic accident last month, have come together to organise a hurling game in his honour.

The Conor Byrne Memorial Hurling Match in which Conor’s CBS friends will play against Conor’s home team of Oulart The Ballagh is scheduled to take place on Friday 27th March in Bellefield GAA Complex, Enniscorthy.

Time: 11am to 2pm (this may be subject to change so keep an eye on the Facebook page “Conor Byrne Memorial Cup” for updates).

Admission is €3.

Light refreshments afterwards.

Everyone is welcome.

5k Run:

 New route  AAI approval  Registration 9.30–10.30am at Gaelscoil Inis Corthaidh  Cost €10  Run commences at 11.00am.

1 Mile Walk:

 Walk commences from the school at 11.10am  Sponsorship cards are available from the Gaelscoil office during school hours or alternatively, if you wish, a small donation could be given on the day.

Follow the event at www.facebook.com/funrungaelscoil Enquiries: Contact Shelly O’Reilly 086-3216779

The Slaney News is now online at www.issuu.com/slaneynews so it can be read by your friends, family and relations all over the world 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

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Slaney News

4 March 2015

www.slaneynews.com

Mythen to run for Dáil Fun Run for Gaelscoil Enniscorthy based Councillor Johnny Mythen has been selected to contest the next General Election for Sinn Féin in County Wexford. He saw off strong competition from New Ross based Cllr Oisin O'Connell at a packed selection convention in Ferns at the end of February.

Speaking after the results were announced, Cllr Mythen said that he aimed to be the candidate for ordinary people. “This is not about putting me into the Dail,” he said, “It's about putting you, the people of County Wexford, into the Dail. I vow to be an honest, hard working representative who will be here for my constituents always.” “It's about people. It's always been about putting people first and as republicans that's what we set out to do.”

Cllr Oisin O'Connell pledged his complete support to Cllr Mythen and insisted that the great spirit of unity in Sinn Féin across Wexford was a sign of great things to come. Senator David Cullinane, who has been nominated to run in the election for Sinn Féin in Waterford, said: “I would be delighted to enter Leinster House as a new TD after the next election side by side with Johnny Mythen TD. More and more people are turning to Sinn Féin every day. I absolutely believe that the party can win the first republican Dáil seat in Wexford for nine decades.” n

Enniscorthy Bypass update The BAM Iridium Consortium has been recently named as the Preferred Tenderer for the M11 Gorey to Enniscorthy Public Private Partnership (PPP) Scheme.

The same consortium was also announced as the Preferred Tenderer for the N25 New Ross Bypass PPP scheme in December 2014. The Bam Iridium consortium will now continue to the final stage of the bidding process, which includes securing the funding necessary for the schemes, to achieve financial close.

Unlike other PPP schemes in Ireland, these contracts will not include the tolling of traffic. Instead, the consortium’s investment costs will be

recouped solely through payments from the NRA, on the basis of road availability over the 25 year concession period.

Both of these projects are the culmination of many years of work by Wexford County Council, the NRA and their consultants in progressing these projects through the planning and procurement stages.

In excess of 300 landowners are directly affected by the two schemes and Wexford County Council greatly appreciates the co-operation and goodwill shown by these people. The construction of the two schemes will result in the alleviation of severe traffic bottlenecks in Enniscorthy and New Ross and will create much

safer and accessible environments in both towns.

T h e M 11 G o re y t o Enniscorthy PPP Scheme is approximately 41Km in length incorporating a new 27Km motorway and tie-in to the east of Enniscorthy, an 8Km single carriageway bypass to the west of Enniscorthy, a 4Km dual carriageway section linking the N30 and N80 that crosses the River Slaney, and associated side road improvements.

It is anticipated that, subject to achieving financial close, the M11 contract may be signed between the NRA and the consortium by Summer 2015, with the detailed design and construction commencing after that date. n

After the success of last year’s inaugural 5k run/1 mile walk the Gaelscoil Inis Corthaidh is set to host the event again this year on the 29th March.

A new 5k route has been chosen and with AAI approval it is hoped the event can be even bigger and better than last year.

Registration for the 5k run is from 9.30–10.30am at Gaelscoil Inis Corthaidh, Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, and the cost is €10. The run commences at 11.00am.

The 1 mile walk will commence from the school at 11.10am. Sponsorship cards are available from the Gaelscoil office during school hours or alternatively, if you wish, a

small donation could be given on the day.

Once again Paul O’Reilly is the Event Controller who says, “It was great to see everyone get involved last year and despite the terrible weather it didn’t seem to dampen spirits.

Not being a runner myself the winning time of 16:14 seemed a marvellous accomplishment to me.”

Tommy Ryan, Chairman of the Gaelscoil Coiste and Head of Stewards for the event s a y s , “ Wi t h O p e r a t i o n Transformation in the forefront of everyone’s mind it is nice to bring everyone together and, whether they opt for the 5k

run or 1 mile walk, have an enjoyable morning of exercise and raise some much needed funds along the way. It’s great to see the students taking part in the Operation Transformation exercise regime in the school and we look forward to seeing them also on the day. Everyone is welcome back to the school afterwards for refreshments, chat and prize-giving and we look forward to seeing you there.”

As was said last year, “Is fearr an tsláinte ná na táinte!”

Follow the event at www.facebook.com/funrungaelscoil. Enquiries: contact Shelly O’Reilly 086-3216779.

Restored Church Institute re-opens The 150-year-old, large, redbricked structure known as the Church Institute, situated on the corner of Castle Street and Church Street in Enniscorthy, has been beautifully restored and is now open as a community facility available to the wider community including children, youth groups, adults, people with disabilities and special interest groups. In addition the building will provide a much-needed exhibition space in the heart of the town.

Listed in the national inventory of architectural heritage of Ireland, its long-awaited restoration is greatly welcomed.

Originally operated under a lease from the Portsmouth estate and initially utilised by the YMCA, the Institute gradually became a facility in constant use by the wider community of Enniscorthy until April 2003 when a fire resulted in the building being unsafe for use.

Due to issues regarding the ownership of the building and the fact that the trustees of the Portsmouth estate had died, a number of years intervened until 2009 when the freehold title

was transferred to six local trustees in Enniscorthy.

Fortunately, these trustees had the vision and determination to save the building from dereliction and return it to its rightful place as an integral part of the built heritage of Enniscorthy and a valuable community resource.

At the re-opening ceremony performed by Rt Rev. M.A.J. Burrows, Bishop of Cashel, Ferns & Ossory, on Thursday 5th February 2015, there was ample evidence for the large attendance to see that their vision had been realised.

The work was carried out in a professional manner by building contractor, James Grace, and carefully supervised by local architectural heritage specialist, Michael Tierney & Associates. The finished project is a credit to all concerned, not least the Trustees’ project manager, Mr Robbie Syme, whose self-belief, determination and meticulous attention to detail during the past four years ensured that this transformation had come to pass.

Grant aid towards the restoration works came from a number of sources including

Wexford Local Development and Enniscorthy Town Council.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Tom Bermingham, on behalf of Wexford Local Development, said that WLD was delighted to have been able to provide €100,000 of LEADER grant aid to the Trustees of the Church Institute to help in this wonderful restoration. In congratulating the Trustees, Mr Bermingham went on to say that, “Money on its own does not make things happen, sometimes there is a lot of goodwill in communities, but not enough imagination and determination to bring ideas to fruition. Enniscorthy is fortunate that the people behind this project have these attributes in abundance.”

Mr Bermingham also outlined that WLD realises the importance of maintaining vibrant rural towns like Enniscorthy and through the next LEADER programme (2014-2020) looks forward to supporting groups and individuals on further projects which focus on improving quality of life and generating economic activity in the area.

Pics courtesy of Tom Bermingham.

Michael Tierney, Heritage Conservation Architect, at re-opening ceremony, 5th February 2015.

Robbie Syme, Trustees’ Project Manager.

L-R: James Grace, building contractor, Minister Paul Kehoe TD, and Tom Bermingham, WLD, at re-opening ceremony.

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The board & staff of Enniscorthy Credit Union Ltd thank our members for their patience and perseverance during our recent computer changeover.

This work is undertaken to assist us with planned improvements to our services to our members and will benefit everybody.

Don’t forget that we have funds available to lend and that there’s never been a better reason to borrow with us.

Thanks again.

Abbey Square, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford. Tel: 053 9233835 Fax: 053 9236613 Sub Office Ballymurn: 053 9138525 Email: info@enniscorthycu.ie Website: www.enniscorthycu.ie www.facebook.com/enniscorthycu

Enjoy Mother’s Day in our recently refurbished dining room in the elegant surroundings of Enniscorthy Golf Club

Mother’s Day Lunch

Sunday 15th of March 3-Course Table d’hote Menu: Starters: Winter Vegetable Soup with fresh baked bread Bouchee of Poached Chicken – Golden Fried Brie Mains: Roast Silverside of Irish Beef – Ovenbaked Fillet of Chicken Pan Roasted Fillet of Hake on a bed of Risotto Sizzling Oriental Vegetable Stirfry with Egg Noodles Choice of Dessert – Tea/Coffee

Plus Afternoon Entertainment in the Clubhouse with Music by Jimmy Hogan and Lar – €25 per person The Ideal Gift For Mother’s Day Booking is essential so call today: 053-9233191 or 087-7562604 Also bar food served as normal on the day ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

join us on St Patrick’s Day for the very best in traditional Irish food Remember: Flavours at Enniscorthy Golf Club is the ideal venue for all occasions: Confirmations, Communions, Birthdays, etc.

Enniscorthy Enterprise & Technology Centre

Training Courses 2015

Certificate of Professional Competence in Road Transport Management A Certificate of Professional Competence is a Certificate that is issued by the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Ireland, on behalf of the Department of Transport, to a candidate who has successfully passed the examination at the end of this course.

The Certificate is proof that the candidate is professionally competent to act as a transport manager. In order to apply for an operator’s licence the candidate must meet the requirements of good repute, appropriate financial standing and professional competence.

The course covers both national and international requirements for professional competence and successful candidates are issued with a Certificate which also meets both requirements.

Every Monday and Wednesday evening 7pm to 10pm.

Part funding may be available if working in the private sector.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Evening Courses 6.30pm to 9.30pm Cost Introduction to Business Chinese (5 nights) €100 Introduction to Twitter for Businesses (1 night) €25 Introduction to Cloud Computing & Gadget Management (2 nights) €100 How to Protect your Invention (1 night) € 25 -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For more information please contact: 053 9237499 or info@eetc.ie

5

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Slaney News

Tech Tip

by Sam power

GeT iT Fixed enniScorThy

essentiaL soft ware Part 2 Ok so continuing on from last month’s column on Essential Software, here's part 2.

Windows 8 has one other prickly problem: Unlike Windows 7, it’s incapable of playing DVDs out of the box. Your PC might have a DVD-playing program installed if you bought a boxed system, but if not, the simply wonderful VLC media player can play your flicks (and music, and podcast, and…) for free. It can even play (some) Blu-ray discs with a little fiddling.

I caught up with Tadhg and Rachel recently to find out more about what's happening on Castle Hill and to speak with a young man who has demonstrated huge confidence in Enniscorthy’s retail sector by opening up two new retail businesses in town in the past 12 months.

Tadhg: We are both delighted to get the shop open on Castle Hill, it was a long road and hard work but it has all worked out.

We bring a very different concept, Frank, a concept which we are confident people will like. Basically it’s choice, per-

reading Portable Document Format files, Sumatra PDF is blazing-fast and completely accurate. Oh, and since it’s less ubiquitous than Adobe’s offering, hackers tend to stay away from Sumatra PDF. If you want to transform a doc, website, image or just about anything else into a PDF? Turn to CutePDF, a freebie that installs as a printer driver and lets you transmogrify things into

PDFs via the standard File > Print interface. It’s an incredibly convenient feature to have available.

As ever if you have queries about this article or you’d like me to talk about a tech issue that interests or concerns you in a future article, then pop me an email at sam@getitfixed.ie, or you can phone the shop on 053 9238544. n

Now that the workhorses are out of the way, it’s time to dig into handy-dandy extras, starting with Paint.net. Don’t let Paint.net’s freebie status fool you: This image editor may not have all the bells and whistles of Photoshop, but it packs everything that most people need (even layer-based editing) and costs hundreds of dollars less.

Adobe Reader is the go-to PDF reader, but it’s clunky, constantly updating, and frequently targeted by malware peddlers. If you need only basic functionality, go with Sumatra PDF instead. Sumatra lacks the fancy extras found in many full-featured PDF readers, but when it comes to straight-up

Displaying Confidence in Enniscorthy’s retail sector ‘Cottage to Castle Curtains’ is one of the latest additions to recent shop openings in Enniscorthy town. It is situated on Castle Hill and is owned and run by partners Tadhg Darcy and Rachel Scully.

Tadhg comes from a family business background and already owns the successful Tadhg Darcy Blinds showroom on Castle Hill which boasts the largest range of blinds in Co. Wexford, while Rachel comes from a background in retail having worked in the drapery/household sector for many years.

Rachel recently left her post in one of Ireland’s largest retail stores and brings with her a vast knowledge of the curtain trade using her skills to buy in only quality and up-to-date product.

4 March 2015

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sonal service and best of all the ability to see and feel the quality of fabrics and rails before purchasing.

When designing and fitting out our new store we used only local Enniscorthy businesses which we thank most sincerely for all their hard work, businesses like your own – the Slaney News, which are dedicated to the future of Enniscorthy.

When myself and Rachel both decided on this investment and venture we were both 100% certain the location was only going to be Enniscorthy.

Q: But why Enniscorthy?

Rachel: Enniscorthy is a town on its way up and as we live in Enniscorthy we both see and know this town’s great potential and we want Cottage to Castle Curtains to play a part in that, albeit a small part, it's one less empty shop, which is always good.

We saw the need for a dedicated curtain shop in the town that would specialise in curtains and provide a very complete curtain service and backup for our customers.

Q: What's different about Cottage to Castle Curtains?

Rachel: Everything we hope.

Tadhg and Rachel pictured at their newly refurbished Enniscorthy offices.

Location for one, situated in the heart of Enniscorthy on Castle Hill it is very accessible to all.

By sourcing only quality product using mostly Irish companies and staying independent allows us to bring in and display a range which is totally up-to-date and second to none.

Readymade curtains are very popular and a more cost affective option. We have on hanging display a large range of popular, readymade curtains so that our customers can see and feel the quality.

Our custom range also on display has great value and has something for every pocket.

We also display all our curtain rails which is proving to be very popular with our customers as they can then visualise them in their own home.

We are very proud of how our fab new store turned out

and recommend highly a dropin visit to have a look around to see what's happening in the world of window fashion.

Tadhg: We are providing the full curtain service which includes rails, fitting, making, alterations, custom made, readymade, Roman, net/lace, cushions, accessories and we are also introducing a curtain drycleaning service with a difference to complete the full package.

With my family business background in window fashions I understand the importance of customer care and true, honest advice.

What we have brought here to Enniscorthy is a top class curtain store and we do hope our customers agree.

The Slaney News wishes Tadhg and Rachel the very best of good luck in their new venture. www.cottagetocastle.net

Hope & Dream 10: going global!

The 2015 Hope & Dream 10 Charity Road Race will consist of a 10 mile run and a 10k walk and will take place on April 12th, 10.15am, at The Promenade, Enniscorthy.

This year the plan is to have the Hope and Dream 10 go global. So if you have any family or friends across the world who might like to take part and cover the 10K or 10 miles or even organise a group in their area to do the event with them, wherever they are you should let them know all about this year’s event.

If they register they can receive their t-shirt and sponsorship card wherever they are located in the world. The

organisers are encouraging the global participants to let people know on Facebook that they are taking part from abroad by posting pictures etc of their training to the “Hope & Dream 10 Mile” Facebook page. Funds raised from the event will go to the Hope Cancer Support Centre and the Wexford Branch of Console, the national suicide charity.

To find out more contact: Hope Cancer Support Centre, 22 Upper Weafer Street, Enniscorthy. Tel: 087-2379035. info@hopeanddream10.com. www.hopeanddream10.com/ Facebook: “Hope & Dream 10 Mile”. n

TABlE qUiz:

PHOTOGRAPHy ExHiBiTiON @ VTOS ENNiSCORTHy

Hillbrook Lawn Tennis Club will be holding a table quiz in The Bailey, Enniscorthy, on Friday the 6th of March at 8pm. The cost of entry per team is €40. This promises to be a great night and there will be plenty of spot prizes on the night.

iMPORTANT DATES: St. Senan’s Parish: Confirmation Sat, 14th March, 2015.

First Holy Communion Sat, 16th May, 2015.

St Aidan’s Parish: Confirmation Sat, 7th March, 2015.

Holy Communion Sat, 23rd May, 2015.

The annual photography exhibition at Enniscorthy VTOS takes place on Weds March 25th from 11am at the Bellefield GAA Complex.

The first-year students of the centre will display their year’s work and extend an invite to all who are interested in photography to come along to escape the everyday. There will be a range of images on display covering everything from portraits to black & whites and stained glass to abstract images.

The VTOS centre will also hold an open day on the same day, so if you are interested in further education for adults, why not pop in to see if it suits you.

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VTOS Enniscorthy – Igniting the Flame!

The VTOS programme nationally is over 25 years in operation. located at the Bellefield GAA Complex the Enniscorthy programme has delivered excellent programmes for 22 of those 25 years. There have been periods of great change but VTOS has been as perennial as the grass and has kept flowering for the students year after year.

Phrases such as ‘igniting the flame that burns a lifetime’, ‘It’s never too late for a second chance education’ and ‘VTOS Spells Success’ have been appropriate and will continue to be so.

VTOS is currently taking the details of interested students for next September. Be sure to register your interest by calling to the centre any weekday between 10am and 11am until the end of May. Alternatively phone 053-9237224, during the same times.

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

Open Morning 25th March All Welcome And enjoy our Coffee Morning and Photo Exhibition 11am-1pm

it’s Never too Late to return to Learning. up-skill and invest in your Future… at the

eNNisCOrthY VtOs CeNtre

if You Want to: ● ● ● ● ● ●

Learn the skills you need for the modern day workplace!

Learn to fully participate in Society with advanced Computer Skills!

Be able to help your children with Homework!

Progress to further studies at PLC or Third Level!

Improve your chances of securing Employment!

Invest in your Education!

then invest in yourself and contact the Centre

any morning up to end of May 2015 (reopens in September)

What former students have to say…

“The best decision I made was joining the VTOS Programme in Bellefield” “I have gained so many skills and great confidence in myself, a great place to make new friends” “I have achieved far more than I could have imagined” “Without VTOS I would never have had the courage and skills to go to College” V is for the Very good people i have met T is for the Teachers, the best you will get O is for the Opportunity, for all to take S is for the Satisfaction at the progress you will make

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– Tony Kynes MBS (former student)

If you have recently been made redundant or if you are on a social welfare payment for more than 156 days you may be eligible for the range of courses and qualifications on offer.



Please phone 053 92 37224 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Thursday any morning up to end of May 2015 (reopens in September)

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1: 'Front of House' Eithne Agar (Co-ordinator) and Geraldine Dunne (Administrative Assistant).

2. Supporting the Hope Cancer Support Centre.

3. Hugh Dunne and James Quirke 'A Mean Team'.

4. 'Passing the Baton' Tony Kynes (past student) and Stephen Kirwan (graduate).

5. The maths students with Terry Ryan (Teacher).

6. Fiona Dee 'Get With IT'.

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Slaney News

4 March 2015

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National Exhibition in Enniscorthy A wonderful turnout greeted the launch of The Irish Volunteers in Focus 1913 1918 Exhibition at Enniscorthy Castle on Friday evening 6th February.

The Exhibition, designed and developed by the staff of the Military Archives, was unveiled in November 2013

by President Higgins to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the formation of the Irish Volunteers in 1913 and has been travelling to different venues around the country ever since. Enniscorthy is one of the few non-military venues chosen to host the Exhibition – a testament to the town’s significance in the 1916 Rising according to Chairman of Wexford County Council Malcolm Byrne who opened the Exhibition at the Castle.

He thanked all who were involved in bringing the wonderful spectacle to Enniscorthy and told an amusing story of a rather lengthy speech made by the then leader of The Green Party, Trevor Sergeant, who went on a bit about his grand-

father who apparently brought groceries to the Volunteers in Dublin during the Rising prompting a tired and disinterested Vincent Browne to remark to Malcolm, “It’s a pity his grandfather wasn’t shot in 1916”. Well Malcolm didn’t make the same mistake and promptly handed proceedings over to MC for the evening, County Archivist Grainne Doran, who introduced speakers including Chairperson of the Enniscorthy Municipal District Barbara-Anne Murphy, Sean Doyle and Military Archive expert Claire Mortimer.

Barbara-Anne spoke proudly of the involvement of her own grandfather, Phil Murphy, in the 1916 Revolution and in the tragedy and turmoil of the years that followed and Sean Doyle, Chairman of the town’s 1916 Sub Committee, expressed his wish that whatever form commemorations will take in 2016 that they will do the men and women who brought liberty, fraternity and freedom to this country, justice.

Captain Claire Mortimer from Military Archives then gave a presentation outlining details of the Exhibition which documents all major events associated with the Irish Volunteers from their formation in 1913, to the Howth Gun Running, the Volunteer Split, the 1916 Rising, The General Elections of 1918 and the formation of the first Dail. Claire also displayed on screen a lot of Enniscorthy documentation including letters and statements from Volunteers telling of their experiences both during and after the Rising.

Grainne Doran thanked all for coming especially Rory O`Connor and the staff of Enniscorthy Castle for housing the Exhibition and members of the Enniscorthy Historic & Re-enactment Society for lending pomp and ceremony to the occasion and encouraged all to avail of this “invaluable opportunity to reflect on the legacy of the period and to remember those who were at the forefront in the fight for Irish Independence”.

It was lovely to see Colm Galligan, Seamus Rafter, Stephen Keegan and many, many other representatives of families of Volunteers present. Grainne Doran told the large gathering that there were numerous events planned for the next 18 months including a Day of Letters at Enniscorthy Library where people are encouraged to bring any letters that they might have from the period Nov 1915 to Oct 1916, a Cumann na mBan Afternoon Tea at Enniscorthy Castle, Memories of 1916 Oral History Project in conjunction with Wexford Library Service, and much much more in the lead up to 2016.

The Irish Volunteers in Focus 1913-1918 Exhibition at Enniscorthy Castle has now finished but for everybody interested in the history of the formation of the State watch this space for details of upcoming events.

– Maria Nolan

A Coalition! Minister Paul Kehoe with Councillor Pip Breen.

All pics by Maria Nolan

Chairman of the 1916 Sub Committee, Sean Doyle.

Enniscorthy Municipal District Chair Barbara-Anne Murphy with Colm Galligan.

“Eoghan Harris in his column in the Sunday Independent last Sunday which dealt mainly with the commemoration of the centenary of the 1916 Rising; he mentioned a number of locations associated with the Rising and no mention of Enniscorthy. I’m just wondering is there much knowledge outside our county of Enniscorthy’s and County Wexford’s eventful contribution to a seminal event in our history. It should become a sense of duty for all us to ensure that the account of the historic episode of resistance to foreign rule that took place in this town in April 1916 is well publicised leading up to the commemoration of the centenary.

The Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has announced a €22 million investment in commemoration projects. It is hoped a portion of it

L-R: County Archivist Grainne Doran, Enniscorthy re-enactor Richard O’Sullivan, Municipal District Chair Barbara-Anne Murphy and Cathy Keane.

will be invested in the restoration of The Athenaeum, the Headquarters of the Volunteers during the Rising in Enniscorthy. If we can spend millions on the Battle of the Boyne site, a battle fought between two foreign kings and almost a million on the round tower at Ferrycarrig, a memorial to Wexford men who fought for a foreign power in the Crimean War, surely we can bring The Athenaeum back into everyday use as a memorial to our people who fought for our freedom and democracy.

Many generations have lived in this county and in this town; they lived through the ravages of marauding Vikings, they suffered the fear and dread of the arrival of the Normans, they endured the illegal imposition of Imperial aggression by our neighbouring island, they survived the trauma of the 1790s, they expe-

A short address by Seán Doyle, Chairman of the 1916 Sub Committee, on 6th February 2015 at Enniscorthy Castle on the occasion of the Launch of the Travelling Exhibition of Military Archives Associated with the Irish Volunteers from 1913-1918: rienced the pangs of stark hunger during the Great Famine, they witnessed the tenure of the town passing from one royal favourite to another, even Mr. Oliver Cromwell got in on the act and the final insult of all, the unleashing of the Black and Tans on the civilian population of this country a mere ninety five years ago.

We are often accused by certain elements in the media of forgetting the thousands of Irishmen who fought in the British Army, particularly during World War 1. They certainly suffered horrifically and thousands lost their lives. Our

primary allegiance must be to the Volunteers who fought for our freedom against superior forces. This country should never officially grant ‘parity of esteem’ to the Volunteers of Easter Week and to the British Army even if it contained Irishmen who fought in World War 1. We must remember it was the same British Army who fought against our freedom fighters and of course they clobbered the natives in many countries they subjugated.

We sometimes hear criticism that the 1916 Rising had no democratic sanction or mandate. What democratic sanction

Enniscorthy re-enactors Graham Kearney and Richard O’Sullivan with Captain Claire Mortimer.

or mandate had the people who invaded our country and waged war and terror?

Along with the dignified ceremonies that will commemorate the Centenary of the Rising we should call upon our government to set aside a Special Day as Independence Day and declare it a Public Holiday to commemorate all who gave their all for our freedom and not confuse it with any other wars or battles.

If the Americans can have their 4th of July and the French their Bastille Day why can’t we have a Day of Freedom?

People often pose the question – how would the 1916 leaders react to our present day situation. The greed and wanton waste of the Celtic Tiger years, now in intensive care, the gap between the rich and the poor, the corruption in high places, the shameless destruction of our physical

heritage; I believe they would be shocked and outraged.

It is hoped that 2016, the year of the Centenary Commemorations, along with the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement will lead to a spirit of openness and honesty and a genuine reconciliation in the island of Ireland. Its realisation in all its aspects must logically bring about a United Ireland by agreement and ensure that no Irishman or Irishwoman will ever again have to give their lives to bring about a free Ireland.

Another positive indication is the growing friendly relations between Ireland and Britain and helped no doubt by the remarkable image of the English Monarch and Head of State, Queen Elizabeth II, laying a wreath and bowing her head at the Garden of Remembrance.” n

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Cuts to Local Bus Services Local Fianna Fáil TD John Browne has said that any attempt to axe public bus routes in communities across the South East must be resisted.

D e p u t y B ro w n e h a s expressed his outrage at Bus Éireann’s decision to drastically reduce services linking a number of communities to Dublin.

It was revealed last month that the bus operator plans to axe nearly 100 rural bus routes nationwide.

D e p u t y B ro w n e c o m mented, “It is completely unacceptable that any community

would be left without access to our towns and cities. Under this plan, route 5 linking We x f o rd , Wa t e r f o rd a n d Wicklow to Dublin will be slashed. It means that Bunclody, Clonroche and Kildavin will be left without any public bus service to Dublin. In addition to this, daily bus services from New Ross and Enniscorthy will be cut from 5 to 2. “… Many people depend on these bus services to get to work, to hospital appointments, to see their families and to access vital services that have been

lost locally. Any reduction or loss of these services will have a huge impact locally.

“This has to be about more than just budgets. Bus Éireann is funded by the taxpayer and it has a public responsibility to serve communities here in the South East as well as the rest of the country. Again it seems like this region will suffer a disproportionate level cuts across the country. I am calling on the Minister for Transport Paschal Donohoe to immediately engage with Bus Éireann before any of these services are cut.” n

Special Needs Expo Aurore Child Development Centre, based at Blackstoops, Enniscorthy, is proud to offer a wide range of therapies and interventions for children with special needs and their families.

Aurore is dedicated to providing high quality services and facilities for all their clients and is continually seeking out new ways to help children reach their true potential. They strive to make services accessible to all, to inform and guide parents and carers through what can very often be a difficult and confusing time.

Aurore wishes to help parents and carers gain access to every possible resource and to facilitate communication between professionals and families who find themselves in similar situations. With this in mind Aurore is organising a special needs expo will bring together a multitude of organ-

Mareike Bartel and Hope Swail of Aurore Child Development Centre, Enniscorthy.

isations, professionals and exhibitors who can provide the latest equipment, information and research developments in the area of special needs.

There will be a kids’ entertainment corner with lots of fun activities, bouncy castles, face-painting and much more.

There will also be a sensory and relaxation area for children who may find the whole

e x p e r i e n c e a l i t t l e o v e rwhelming.

This inaugural expo will take place on 16th May 2015 between 2pm and 6pm in the A s t ro A c t i v e C e n t re , E n n i s c o r t h y. S p a c e s f o r exhibitors are filling up fast so if you or anyone you know is interested please contact the Aurore team on 053-9233089 or email info@aurore.ie n

DonohoEs h a r D wa r E

the Trade & D.I.Y. Experts SPRiNG iS iN THE 6. Got aphids? You can NEW WEBSiTE: control them with a strong AiR AND iT’S TiME www.donohoeshardware.ie blast of water from the TO GET BACk TO vISIT uS Today! hose or with insecticidal GARDENiNG. soap. But here's another sugHERE ARE SOME TOP TiPS gestion, one that's a lot more fun; get some TO GET yOU STARTED: tape! Wrap a wide strip of tape around your 1. To prevent accumulating dirt under your fingernails while you work in the garden, draw your fingernails across a bar of soap and you'll effectively seal the undersides of your nails so dirt can't collect beneath them.

Then, after you've finished in the garden, use a nailbrush to remove the soap and your nails will be sparkling clean.

2. To prevent the line on your string trimmer from jamming or breaking, treat with a spray vegetable oil before installing it in the trimmer.

3. Turn a long-handled tool into a measuring stick! Lay a long-handled garden tool on the ground, and next to it place a tape measure. Using a permanent marker, write inch and foot marks on the handle. When you need to space plants a certain distance apart (from just an inch to several feet) you'll already have a measuring device in your hand.

4. To have garden twine handy when you need it, just stick a ball of twine in a small clay pot, pull the end of the twine through the drainage hole, and set the pot upside down in the garden. Do that and you'll never go looking for twine again.

5. To create perfectly natural markers, write the names of plants (using a permanent marker) on the flat faces of stones of various sizes and place them at or near the base of your plants.

hand, sticky side out, and pat the leaves of plants infested with aphids. Concentrate on the undersides of leaves, because that's where the little buggers like to hide.

7. The next time you boil or steam vegetables, don't pour the water down the drain, use it to water potted patio plants, and you'll be amazed at how the plants respond to the "vegetable soup."

8. Use leftover tea and coffee grounds to acidify the soil of acid-loving plants such as azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias, gardenias and even blueberries. A light sprinkling of about one-quarter of an inch applied once a month will keep the pH of the soil on the acidic side.

9. Use chamomile tea to control damping-off fungus, which often attacks young seedlings quite suddenly. Just add a spot of tea to the soil around the base of seedlings once a week or use it as a foliar spray.

10.The quickest way in the world to dry herbs: just lay a sheet of newspaper on the seat of your car, arrange the herbs in a single layer, then roll up the windows and close the doors.

Your herbs will be quickly dried to perfection.

What's more, your car will smell great.

Happy gardening for the coming year.

For more hints & toolbox tips… https://www.facebook.com/ DonohoesHardware

Local publican Julie Mullally of Stamps pub will be doing the VHI Women's Mini Marathon on June 1st for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland.

This is a cause that is very close to Julie’s heart as her daughter Ruth has CF and Julie would appreciate all support. If anyone would like to help Julie they can join the facebook group 'Run For Ruth' as Julie is putting a team together. Registration is open so you can either join the facebook group or call into Julie in Stamps and she'll organise a sponsorship pack for you. n

Launch of Lenten Campaign

frEE parkInG … frEE DElIvEry … frEE profEssIonal aDvICE Open 8am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday & through lunch every weekday and 8.30am to 1pm on Saturdays Bishop Denis Brennan and Wexford town based priests Fr. Ciprian (the Friary), Fr. Barry Larkin (Clonard) and Fr. Aodhan Marken (Wexford) at the launch of the Lenten Trocaire Box Appeal for Lent 2015 with Hanna Evans and Eamonn Meehan (CEO, Trocaire).

lower Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford T: 053 924 2432 or 924 2433 F: 053 924 2435 E: hardware@jdonohoe.com

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Slaney Picture Parade

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4 March 2015

Enniscorthy Toastmasters celebrates 20 years Riverside Park Hotel, 6th February

Joseph Brady, Ursula Knox, Harry Knox.

L-R: Maria Sinnott, Luanne Kent (District 71 Governor), Michael Collins (D71 LG Marketing).

Grainne Ashe and Martin Murphy.

Bree Hunt Ball, Riverside Park Hotel, 28th February.

Pat Jordan, Patricia Loughnane.

Laura McEvoy and John Tubritt at the Wexford Supporters Club Glen Fuels Dinner, Riverside Park Hotel, Feb 2015.

Brian Hogan’s Table at the Bellefield GAA Table Quiz, February, 2015.

Pic: Maria Nolan.

Nicola Neville, Lorraine Maddock, Mairead McDaid.

Shannon Meade and James Cash at the Wexford Supporters Club Glen Fuels Dinner, Riverside Park Hotel, Feb 2015.

Brian Kehoe, Thomas Kinsella and Seamus Byrne at the Bellefield GAA Table Quiz, February, 2015. Pic: Maria Nolan.

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50 Shades of GAA As the nation heated up for the premier showing of the much awaited Fifty Shades of Grey on Friday 13th February, the GAA faithful settled down in large numbers at the Riverside Park Hotel to enjoy ‘Fifty Shades of GAA’ as MC for the event Tom Dempsey so wittily put it.

And what an event as Wexford Gaels gathered in force to celebrate a good year past and all that is wonderful about our sport and our marvellous young sportsmen and women.

Tom’s first duty was to request the 397 strong assembly to be upstanding to welcome the Ladies Football All Ireland Champions, who got a tremendous response from the Riverside crowd for captain Clara Donnelly who was presented with a beautiful bouquet of flowers by sponsor extraordinaire Alan Keyes of Glen Fuels and interviewed by the one and only Mr. South East Radio himself Liam Spratt.

Tom then called on Chairman of the Wexford Supporters Club Arthur Quinn to make a presentation to the outgoing Manager, Billy Donnelly, of the Enniscorthy Tie Pin depicting Vinegar Hill, St. Senan, The Castle and the Pike, specially designed by Stephen Bourke.

Tom was lavish throughout the evening in his praise of the contribution and generosity of Alan Keyes and Glen Fuels saying that Wexford GAA are indeed fortunate to have a man of his calibre and complimented him for

his interest and support of GAA in the county.

Alan Keyes said that he was delighted to be associated with the county and with such fine young men and women at the pinnacle of their sport. He told the audience that over 10,000 votes had been cast online for the Player of the Year Awards with as little as four votes separating candidates in some categories.

Alan thanked Arthur Quinn, Maria Nolan and the Wexford Supporters for all their work on the event. He said that Wexford has been lucky for him and he has been lucky for Wexford as this was his third year to sponsor and each year there have been medals to present. He went on to say that he was delighted with the talented duo of presenters, Tom Dempsey and Liam Spratt, whose banter reminded him of the two old guys in the gallery on the Muppet Show!

Leinster and runners-up AllIreland medals were presented to intermediate and U-21 hurlers and Tom Dempsey had special tribute for Managers JJ Doyle and Larry Doyle saying that on behalf of all present he was delighted to see Larry in the audience.

Chairman of the Wexford Supporters Club Arthur Quinn thanked all for coming and supporting the event, he thanked the hotel for the wonderful meal and he thanked his own very hard working committee for all their time and work on behalf of

Wexford GAA. Then in authentic Oscar style the awards began with nominees appearing on four screens around the function room accompanied by Oscar fanfare and followed by the white envelope with the winner’s name being ripped open and announced: Niamh Moore – Ladies Footballer of the Year, Graham Cullen – Footballer of the Year, Keith Armstrong – Handballer of the Year, Roisin Kelly – Camogie Player of the Year, John Tubritt – U-21 Footballer of the Year, Padraic Foley – U-21 Hurler of the Year and Liam Og McGovern – Senior Hurler of the Year.

All were excellent recipients of the awards according to C o u n t y B o a rd C h a i r m a n Diarmuid Devereux but there were no losers he said as every player in the room was a winner having put in the same effort and having participated in a great year of Wexford GAA. Diarmuid thanked Alan Keyes and Glen Fuels for all he was doing for the county and the games and he thanked Arthur Q u i n n a n d t h e We x f o rd Supporters Club for their continued hard work and marvellous dedication to Wexford GAA saying that it just wouldn’t be able to continue without them.

Diarmuid brought the proceedings to a close saying that all is positive and promising in the county as we look forward to the 2015 season and beyond.

– Maria Nolan n

Award winners at Wexford Supporters Club Glen Fuels Dinner, Riverside Park Hotel, Feb 2015.

Back L-R: John Tubritt, Graeme Cullen, Padraic Foley, Keith Armstrong.

Front L-R: Niamh Moore, Liam Og McGovern and Roisin Kelly. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Wexford Supporters Club AGM With many members having to cry off due to illness and AllIreland Congress commitments including our Secretary Tom Boland, County Secretary Margaret Doyle, County PRO Rory Murphy and County Chairman Diarmuid Devereux to name but a few, a smaller crowd than usual heard outgoing Chairman Arthur Quinn outline his achievements over the past three years.

Arthur was lavish in his praise for sponsor Alan Keyes and Glen Fuels for their contribution to our annual Player of the Year Awards Ball saying that Alan and his IT crew have taken the night to greater heights and transformed the event into an Oscar style extravaganza complete with screens, fanfare and white envelopes – it is indeed a show to behold and fast becoming that place to be at year’s end with approximately 400 people at this year’s event at the Riverside Park Hotel. Arthur thanked everyone on his committee for all their endeavours on behalf of Wexford GAA and all his sub

committees who organised the very successful fundraisers such as Race Days, Greyhound Nights, Gala Balls, Hill Walks, Membership Draws and Golf Classics. He said that he had enjoyed his three year tenureship and would be remaining on the committee and continuing to be active for Wexford GAA which he felt was on the rise.

Incoming Chairman Des Croke and Jim Byrne both paid tribute to Arthur and to all the work he had done over the past three years saying that he was a dedicated Chairman and his heart was always in the right place when it came to supporting Wexford teams and endeavour. Des Croke went on to tell his newly elected committee that he would be doing his utmost to raise the p ro f i l e o f t h e We x f o rd Supporters Club and would be forging stronger links between them and county management and would also be seeking a greater and more constant presence at county grounds and at all county games

“It is in our best interest”, he said, “to be as visible as we can in the county and to increase membership and support as our county strives forward.”

Members of the Wexford Supporters Club have been in contact with other supporters clubs around the country in recent times including Kilkenny, Offaly, Tipperary, Limerick, Waterford and Tyrone, in an effort to both establish links and learn from each other what best to do and how best to do it. PRO Maria Nolan told the meeting that it was “an exercise that has been extremely interesting and informative”.

She said, “It is good, you know every so often, to look outside ourselves and view what others are doing and how they are doing it. We have learned a lot and we hope to be putting some of the knowledge gleaned to good use over the coming months in an effort to give our members more for their membership and to make them feel very much part of the bigger picture that is Wexford GAA.” – Maria Nolan

Members of the Wexford Supporters Club elected at the Annual General Meeting on 27th February at the Riverside Park Hotel. L-R: Jim Byrne, Rose Breen, Una Bird (Asst Secretary), Denis Nolan, Bill Mernagh, Mary O’Reilly (Asst Treasurer). Front: Maria Nolan (PRO), Des Croke (Chairman), Arthur Quinn (Outgoing Chairman), Andrew Nolan (Treasurer).

Missing from photo: Pip Breen (Vice Chair), Tom Boland (Secretary), Margaret Doyle, Diarmuid Devereux, Breda Curran, Michael Power and Tony Breen.

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Slaney Entertainment

4 March 2015

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St Patrick’s Day in Enniscorthy St. Patrick’s Day Enniscorthy Parade 2015 PROGRAMME: TuESDay 17th MaRCh 2.00pm Market Square Entertainment: Music, dance and children's entertainment with free face-painting.

3.00pm Street Parade Commences.

GROUPS INCLUDE: United Nations Veterans’ Association, Organisation of National Ex-Servicemen, Athletics, GAA, Rugby & Soccer Clubs, Ferns Diocesan Youth Service, Scouts, Guides and Brownies, Dancing Schools, Gymnasts, Town Festivals and Events plus Various Floats, Vehicles and Vintage Machines.

MARCHING BANDS: Northfield Caledonia Pipes & Drums, Birmingham. St. Colman’s Pipe Band, Ballindaggin.

THE REVIEWING STAND: The Reviewing Stand will be located at Abbey Sq.

ENNISCORTHY PARADE ROUTE

Floats, vehicles, vintage machines, assemble on The Promenade from 1.30pm.

Marchers/walkers assemble at St. Senan’s Parish Church from 2.00pm.

Marchers depart St. Senan’s Church led by the Army Reserve Colour Party at 3.00pm.

Proceed along Templeshannon Quay, across Séamus Rafter Bridge, past the Reviewing Platform, turn left into Mill Park Road at the Post Office, first right up Friary Hill, turn right into Court Street, Rafter Street, turn left into Weafer Street, along Pig Market Hill, turn right at Doyle’s Corner into Duffry Street along by St. Aidan’s Cathedral and Main Street into the Market Square where the marchers will be diverted down Slaney St.

Floats, Vehicles etc will join the Parade at Séamus Rafter Bridge after all the marchers pass by and turn left at the Post Office and proceed along Mill Park Road to Arnold’s Cross where they turn right at the 1798 Centre and proceed along Parnell Road and rejoin the marchers on Duffry Hill. HGVs and buses will be diverted on to Nunnery Road at Doyle’s Corner, Duffry Gate.

Due to health and safety concerns and following advice from the Gardaí no horses/animals allowed in the parade.

Adults are requested to ensure children are supervised at all times SPECIAL THANKS:

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE COMMITTEE:

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee would like to thank the following for their support and commitment to making our St. Patrick’s Day Parade possible: An Garda Siochána, Staff of Wexford County Council, Slaney Search & Rescue, Enniscorthy Red Cross Ambulance Service, MC Liam Sharkey, John Reilly and the Adjudicators of Floats, Marchers etc.

Chairman: Seán Doyle Secretary: Margaret Kavanagh Casey Treasurer: Pat Casey Committee: Martin Murphy, Padraig O’Gorman.

Sergeant Brendan Moore attended meetings representing An Garda Siochána. Senior Executive Engineer, Mr. Rory O’Mahoney, advised the Committee on technical issues.

NATIONAL 1798 REBELLION CENTRE & ENNISCORTHY CASTLE Celebrate our national holiday with a visit to Enniscorthy Castle which will be open from 12 noon to 5pm on St Patrick's Day (last admission at 4.30pm) and the National 1798 Rebellion Centre which will be open from 12 noon to 5pm (last admission at 4pm).

ENNISCORTHY HISTORIC & RE-ENACTMENT SOCIETY Keep an eye out for this newly formed group taking part in this year’s parade.

Please keep Enniscorthy Tidy and Litter Free

OUR SPONSORS: Wexford County Council, Enniscorthy Town Council, Enniscorthy Credit Union, Colm McDevitt.

Slaney Entertainment

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13

Celebrating 20 years

L-R: Jim Ryan, John Roche, David Power, Ulick Stafford at the Enniscorthy Toastmasters’ 20th Anniversary Celebration in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on 6th February.

Enniscorthy Toastmasters’ 20th Anniversary Celebration became a reality when over 50 people came together in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on 6th February, to reminisce and recognise the achievements and successes of the Club.

As part of a worldwide network of over 350,000 people, each and every person makes a difference, and the large presence at the 20th Anniversary Celebration contributed to an evening of enjoyment and delight.

Dick Meaney, our president, together with Jim Doyle and Yvonne Jordan introduced almost all the Past Presidents of the Club. It was inspiring to listen to 20 years unfolding from the beginning right up to the present day and we look forward to many more years of continued success.

Among the inspiring speakers of the evening was Ted Corcoran, Former Toastmasters International President. His words struck a chord with everyone as he shared his passion

and vision with us. Luanne Kent, District 71 Governor, enriched the ambience with her words of encouragement and went that extra mile to present all the current officers with beautiful TM pins. Michael Collins, District 71 LG Marketing, wrapped up the evening’s discourse with a great sense of purpose.

As always the Riverside Park Hotel exceeded their 4 star service. It was truly an evening to remember.

– Maria Sinnott, P.R.O. Enniscorthy Toastmasters

Bellefield GAA Table Quiz: In second place after tie-breaker L-R: Jamie Doyle, Fidelma Farrell, Paddy Farrell, Yvonne Kavanagh. Pic: Maria Nolan.

Table teaser at Bellefield Well done to all involved with our Table Quiz on Friday night in the Clubhouse – it was a most enjoyable event as 35 tables battled it out for the title under Question Master extraordinaire the debonair Matthew Hyland.

Eventually coming down to a tie-breaker and sudden death between Fiacre Ryan’s table and Paddy Farrell’s table with

the former having a slight edge and coming closest to the mark answering a difficult conundrum about the number of cattle in Ireland in 2013 according to Department of Agriculture records! How’s that for a terrible teaser! And no I didn’t set the tie-breaker!

Well done to the winners and to all who competed and donated raffle prizes. A great

aN eveNiNg oF seaN Nos daNCe With NiaMh Page Dance - 5 Mar Demonstration & workshop for adults & youths 14+ as part of Irish week. World Champion Irish Step and Modern Dancer Niamh Page demonstrates the Sean Nos dance style that includes improvisation, inventive rhythms and great music. _________________________________

Enniscorthy Toastmasters: L-R: Dick Meaney (President), Kieran McGuinness, Dympna Skelton, Luanne Kent (District 71 Governor), Ted Corcoran (Former Toastmasters International President), Mairead Stafford.

Ceol agus craic in Stamps Pub every Friday night, L-R: Tom Murphy, Paul O’Reilly, Brigid Sinnott, Padraig Sinnott.

Drama in Kilmuckridge The 57th Kilmuckridge Drama Festival is hosting the All-Ireland Confined Drama Finals this year between Friday 10th April and Saturday 18th April 2015 inclusive.

The 2015 Festival line-up has yet to be finalised. The Kilmuckridge Memorial Hall (KMH) has been recently refurbished by the

Kilmuckridge Hall Committee.

Audiences and drama groups will benefit from its greatly enhanced, warm and comfortable facilities combined with improved theatre specifications.

Vouchers for Season Tickets are now available. Please contact 0871712549. A nine-night Season Ticket

costs €120 and there is limited availability. An eight-night Season Ticket costs €110 and excludes the Opening Night on Friday 10th April.

Kilmuckridge Drama Festival, which is under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland, has been successfully running since 1958. n

vladiMir & aNtoN JaBlokov: tWo Brothers Music - 6 Mar Vladimir and Anton are Slovakian sibling musicians with a shared rare gift – mastery of the classical violin. These dueling violinists are ably accompanied by the superb Adam Kuruc on piano, as they present their unique interpretations of jewels and gems from the rich heritage of central and Eastern European classical music, from Viennese trinkets, to Russian masterpieces, and adding some Romany fireworks for good measure. _________________________________

night’s entertainment was had by all compliments of the organising committee of Declan Ruth, Eamonn Furlong, Damian Mahon and the Rapparees senior hurlers.

All proceeds from the event will go into our preparation for the 2015 championships.

Well done and we hope you enjoy a terrific season.

– Maria Nolan

ClassiC artists Night the Full irish Music - 14 Mar We celebrate all things Irish from Traditional, Folk, Rock to Contemporary Irish Artists.

Featuring local musicians on the night. _________________________________ the MatChMaker Drama - 20 Mar One of Ireland’s great comedians Jon Kenny comes together with legendary Irish actor Mary McEvoy in a revival of Michael Scott’s iconic production of The Matchmaker. John B. Keane’s hilarious hit play follows the efforts of Dicky Mick Dicky O’Connor to make matches for the lonely and lovelorn from all parts of the country. At the centre of this celebrated production is John B. Keane’s marvellous mischievous wit coupled by his unparalleled way with words. _________________________________

PJ gallagher's CoNCussioN Comedy - 7 Mar With support by Eric Lalor and Joanne McNally. Star of Next Week’s News, Meet your Neighbours and Naked Camera, PJ Gallagher makes his highly anticipated debut at the Wexford Arts Centre with a brand new show ‘Concussion’. His TV appearances also include The Late Late Show, Tubridy Tonight, The Miriam O Callaghan Show and The Saturday Night Show. _________________________________

Chris hollaNd – FroM WesteNd to WexFord Music - 27 Mar Join West End Star Chris Holland for a fun evening packed full of favourite songs from the musicals, and much more...with some very special guests. Chris was most recently seen in the world’s longest running show ‘Les Meserables’, alternating the leading role of Jean Valjean. Chris has also starred in ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, ‘Dirty Dancing’, ‘We Will Rock You’, ‘Miss Saigon’, Grease and ‘Whistle Down the Wind’. He has worked with such talents as Sting, Queen, Cat Stevens and Sir Cliff Richard. _________________________________

keviN Mcaleer Comedy - 13 Mar One of the founding fathers of modern stand-up, he has influenced a whole generation of comedians in Ireland and the UK, and his live shows remain a master class in comic timing and delivery. McAleer’s carefully polished scripts have drawn comparisons with writers of the calibre of Flann O’Brien and Beckett. With not a word out of place, the result is an evening of concentrated laughter that can leave audiences with hilarious side-effects such as sore sides and aching jaw muscles.

oF ladies lost aNd FouNd kareN uNderWood & JohN o'BrieN Music - 28 Mar Karen is back with more passion than ever before. In making this new show, Karen has trawled jazz, blues and soul to find artists whose rise to fame was followed by a fall from grace. Of Ladies Lost and Found is a celebration of love and loss. Karen journeys with her audience to the heart of pain and redemption in the songs of Billie Holiday, Whitney Houston, Dinah Washington, Edith Piaf, and Amy Winehouse – all ladies who were lost and found.

www.wExfORdaRTScENTRE.iE T: (053) 9123764.

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Slaney Entertainment

JAMIE’S GOOD NEWS christy Moore played the Riverside Park Hotel last week and despite being my twelfth time seeing him I still left the hall blown away. There was a general sense of good vibes in the room and the audience were in it from the beginning. The songs and stories flowed effortlessly and the jukebox was in full swing. Two highlights – an impromptu call for Rocky Road To dublin brought the bodhran out and it was a magical tour de force of wordplay and the haunting rhythm of the ancient drum. Second highlight?

Converting a friend to the sheer magic that is Christy.

Two hours and twenty minutes in the company of a true master of his craft and he was joined by Wexford’s own declan Sinnott who continues to weave aural magic. He is the epitome of a great player, he never steps over the words or the melody, Declan comes in under it and plays beautifully enhancing the magic already there. The boys were joined on percussion by a young man called Jimmy Higgins from Galway. Higgins added another flavour to the already brimming musical pot, a lovely addition. A great night!

50 SHADES OF WTF The first thing that strikes you about the film version of E.L. James’ crazily popular novel 50 Shades Of Grey is the opening half. The phallic imagery in this short space of time is absolutely crazy. It is everywhere, big massive buildings, fast cars, pencils with our eponymous hero’s name emblazoned on them. It actually made me giggle uncontrollably. Subtlety is not a word that you can associate with this film. They literally slap you in the face with it

4 March 2015

View From The Nosebleeds for the opening half. I say the opening half because this deals with the build up to what, let’s be honest we all came to see.

So how does the build-up fare? It doesn’t. This film has one of the worst scripts I have ever had the misfortune of hearing tumble out of actors’ mouths.

You actually feel genuinely sorry for them at points. There are clangers bigger than space in this mess of words. At times, the film and the innuendos feel like a modern carry On. The dialogue is lazy, pedestrian and at times downright insulting to the audience.

This fact is driven home by

two soulless, vapid performances from our leads. Jamie dornan sleepwalks his way through the whole two hour running time. No personality, no characterisation, no emotion. A massive disappointment as he was amazing in The fall.

In my humblest opinion, he is

not ready to carry a film yet. dakota Johnson fares slightly better as anastasia Steele (on a side note, this name is ridiculous and does not ring true once, who calls their child anastasia these days, no wonder she has issues). As I stated previously, they are not helped by a slow, boring-as-hell script. But she

does better than Fornan and invests some personality into her character. But overall, they have zero chemistry and their relationship plays out like a cheap soft core film.

One of my biggest bones of contention with the film was the overall attitude towards women. Christian Grey may be wealthy, unbelievably attractive but he is a complete and utter prick. He unsettlingly weaves into serial killer territory with some of his actions, and he is also a massive stalker. But it’s ok because he had “mummy issues”. Let me tell you something pal another fictional character with serious parental issues was a young Bruce wayne. Only difference was he used his problems and situation to actually try and make the world a better place. He didn’t want to punish women, you mentaler.

Look, at the end of the day, none of the words I have written will matter one iota as the film smashed records left, right and centre and will keep doing so. And the sequels will be even more popular. But there you go, that’s my two cents on it. A soulless, cash-in of a film that will give you some cheap thrills, much like jumping off a wall or running with scissors. And while I’m here, if you want a film that actually has a bit of sizzle I can highly recommend Secretary with Maggie Gyllenhall and James Spader. n

Templeshannon Community Centre

INDooR MaRkET

First Friday of every month 9am to 4pm With a range of both new and used clothing and footwear to choose from, there's bound to be something to suit every style and taste. Other stalls offer ornaments and trinkets, children’s toys, jewellery, books and artwork, and an array of delicious homemade cakes.

The indoor market facilitates the local community by offering a service for local people by local people. All proceeds go toward the maintenance and upkeep of the Community Centre.

The cost of a stall is €10 for one table. To book please contact Bernie or Vicki at the Community Centre reception on (053) 923 7511, or email: reception@templeshannonccc.com

Invite to Vinnie’s

Everyone is invited to Vinnie’s Bar & Lounge on the Island Road, Enniscorthy, on Saturday 7th March for the official opening of their spectacularly renovated function room. With a great live band, Nixon, playing on the night and with Finger Food, Door Prize of a Drinks Hamper, Drinks Promotion, and lots more, it promises to be a party night to remember. It is also a wonderful opportunity to view the new function room and to enquire about the many benefits of holding your family/work/club events in Vinnie’s. See you there on the 7th! Doors open at 8.00pm.

our newly renoVaTed funcTion room:

Fiacra Doyle busking on Enniscorthy’s Rafter Street.

Buskers are always welcome on our streets.

Pic: Donal Cullen.

official opening: 7th march doors open 8pm liVe music by nixon, finger food, door prize of a drinks hamper, drinks promoTion, and loTs more

superb parTy Venue:

The Wizard of Oz Enniscorthy Musical Society’s upcoming production of THE WIZARD OF OZ will take place in Colaiste Bride Enniscorthy from Tues 7th April to Sat 11th April 2015. A show for all the family – not to be missed. The cast is: Dorothy - Roisin Barry.

Auntie Em - Catherine Gladney.

Uncle Henry - Sean O'Brien.

Miss Gulch and Wicked Witch

of the West - Therese Canavan Bolger.

Professor Marvel and Wizard of Oz -Lorcan Dunne.

Glinda - Caroline O'Connell.

Scarecrow - Graham Finerty.

Tin Man - James Dobbs.

Lion - Gearoid McCauley.

Munchkinland Officials - James Freeman and Rory Cunnea.

Facebook: “Enniscorthy Musical Society”. n

free room hire  seating for 120 people we can organise food and music for all occasions - christenings, anniversaries, birthdays, commmunions, confirmations great party atmosphere…

monster dart Tournament st patrick's day 4pm with music afterwards by greenweed

Vinnie’s ISland Road EnnISCoRthy Call in to us any time – Eircom wifihub hotspot See us on Facebook for info and special offers

Tel: 053-9236487

Slaney Entertainment

www.slaneynews.com

15

'Fit For Kings' take Wexford Has Talent Grand Final Crown Fourteen acts took to the stage on Saturday evening, February 14th, for the Grand Final of the very first 'Wexford Has Talent' competition. Performers from as young as 11 showcased top class skills in Trad Music, Singing, Stand Up Comedy, Operatic and Classical performance along with Acrobatic Gymnastics and Dance.

The finalists included singer and guitarist Andrew Berry, singer Jirat O'Neill, comedienne Hazel Devereux, singer Kevin Fitzharris, Acrobatic Gymnast Tara Doyle Robinson, singer Laura D o n n e l l y, Tr a d g ro u p T Avenue, singer and musician Rachel Grace, pianist Emma M u r p h y, d a n c e r E i m e a r O'Donnagain, singer Lauren Doyle, rock band Fit For Kings, singer Paul Murphy and singer Evey Roche.

All of the acts performed in front of a 600 plus live audience and a panel of three judges at Whites of Wexford; the combined audience vote of 50% and the judges’ vote of 50% decided the winner to be rockband ‘Fit For Kings’. The judging panel included David ‘Stoney’ Burke, Sue Furlong and Ian Grey and the MC on the evening was Mayor of Wexford George Lawlor.

'Fit For Kings’ rocked the house with their five members all from Wexford, Drummer Dylan, Bassist Ronan, Guitarist Conor, on keyboard Oisin, and on vocals Jordan, putting on a fist pumping show. The band blew the audience and judges away with their mash-up of Michael Jackon’s hit ‘Billy Jean’ and the Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars favourite ‘Up Town Funk’. The delighted group of

university students were presented with the prize of €2,000 from Wexford Has Talent Sponsors, Energia.

Commenting on the evening, one of the event organisers Philip Cullen said, “This was an incredible show, the talent from the audition stage right through to the final really had to be seen to be believed, it’s been a fantastic event and we are delighted with the massive hit the show has been, the feedback from the audience members and all of the contestants has been so positive we’re planning Wexford Has Talent 2016 already!”

Michael Nugent of Energia, sponsors of the event, said they were delighted to help shine a big spotlight on Wexford’s talent and offered huge congratulations to all who took part.

Wexford Has Talent Judge, Ian Grey, said, “This has been one major showcase of talent, the event itself was incredibly professional and it has been a delight to be involved with the show. Through the process we met some extremely talented people and I know I can speak on behalf of all of the judges when I say that every finalist truly deserved their place on the stage and we all would like to see all of them continue with their talent and we offer our congratulations to each and every act on a brilliant performance at the 2015 Wexford Has Talent final."

Energia, Attracta Farrell Property and Letting Service, Hub Angel, Boggan Motors and Whites of Wexford sponsored Wexford Has Talent 2015. n

Above: Wexford Has Talent winners ‘Fit For Kings’ – Drummer Dylan, Bassist Ronan, on Guitar Conor, on keyboard Oisin and on vocals Jordan, being presented with their prize by Michael Nugent representing Energia, sponsors of Wexford Has Talent, along with Kilian Duignan, Chair of Sarsfields Gaelic Football Club and organisers of Wexford Has Talent, with Mayor of Wexford George Lawlor who was also MC on the evening.

Top left: Tara Doyle Robinson performing in Wexford Has Talent Final. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

IRISH SINGLES CLUB BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER PERSONAL INTRODUCTIONS HOSTED GROUP ACTIVITIES

Private & Confidential Single,Separated,Divorced?

Call Michelle: 087 769 9867

www.irishsinglesclub.ie

ROCK ‘N’ ROLL:

Any queries contact Aoife 087 4129724 or Mick Weafer 087 7665172

16

Slaney Entertainment

The Case for the Prosecution

You DeCiDe!

by Emma Morris During the first hour of Carrie, I couldn't remember exactly why I'd hated the film the first time I watched it. It doesn't capture your attention quite like the original adaptation, but the first hour is mostly harmless, and nothing really happens to invoke hatred. It's quite similar to the original, with the exception of its translation into a modern day context, and a few additional scenes tacked on. But then the last half hour happened and I remembered why I detested it the first time around.

I'm an unashamed fanatic of the horror genre. I adore it all – from the classics to those hilarously camp horror films that leave you laughing hysterically from their sheer absurdity. I especially love Carrie, both the novel by Stephen King and Brian DePalma's 1976 film.

Because of this I didn't have very high hopes for the remake, but I was willing to give it a chance.

The thing about remakes is that they're supposed to reimagine the orignal flm in a different way; exploring the way the modern world has changed in a classic setting. The lack of is just one of the many things missing from Kimberly Peirce's film. Except for a few added scenes, additional elements,

THEy’LL LAUGH AT yOU, THEy’LL ALL LAUGH AT yOU!!!

Normally, I abhor remakes.

Most of them are pointless and useless. Cases in point, Gus Van Sant pretty much reshooting Hitchcock’s Psycho scene by scene, only in colour.

This film, if you haven’t seen it is beyond redeeming.

Absolutely terrible. Hell it’s that bad that the sequel to the original, Psycho ii, is a better film. But I digress. We’re not here to talk about Norman Bates and his “mother.” No we are here to talk about Carrie White, the main character in Kimberly Peirce’s 2013 reimagining of the original 1978 film which was helmed by Brian de Palma. This film still resides in my top ten horror movies of all time, so how did I feel after watching the remake?

Surprisingly satisfied and not as angry as I normally am after watching some clod basically retell a story I’ve seen before.

I really, really enjoyed this movie. And as with the original this had a lot to do with

4 March 2015

and an overuse of special effects, it's pretty much Brian DePalma's Carrie, but lacking DePalma's flair, creativity and his sense of suspense.

For those who are unfamiliar with the story of Carrie, or people who've been living under a rock, the basic gist is it's about a high school outcast who doesn't fit in and is bullied very harshly by her classmates. Due to her over zealous religious mother and very sheltered upbringing, she has no idea what is happening to her when she gets her first period in school in the gym showers and freaks out. Then some of the girls start taunting her and throwing tampons. After this incident the film revolves around her discovering that she has telekenetic powers, and one of the girls, Sue, trying to make amends by getting her boyfriend Tommy to take Carrie to the prom.

My first issue is with casting.

Now, I love Chloe Grace Moretz, and I think she's a wonderful actor, but she is no Carrie White.

She's too pretty and too innocent looking to play the character, and for me is just not believeable as Carrie. However, the best part of this film is Julianne Moore's portrayal of Margaret White. Now, no one can hold a candle to Piper

Carrie

From there, it only gets worse.

Part of the appeal of old horror movies is that they didn't have the special effects that we have today, so they had to be imaginatiive in attempting to portray certain scenes. Part of the problem with remakes is the habit of totally overdoing the special effects Slow motion streams of blood rising into the air from Carrie's arms is one of those times, and along with her pupils throbbing to the sound of a heartbeat, to, ya know, emphasise just how angry she really is, it just ends up looking completely ridiculous. This is one of those times when 'less is more!' could not ring truer.

Laurie's performance in the original, but Moore certainly comes close. She plays crazy religious amazingly well, and adds a level of creepiness that a lesser actor could not pull off.

She is fantastic in the totally unnecessary birth scene that was added to the beginning of

If school wasn’t bad enough, she has to go home to her mother. Now this woman is genuinely, bat-shit crazy. I

the movie, and just continues to get progressively more menacing and unstable as the film goes on.

Now I must warn about spoilers, because I plan on describing the last half hour in great detail. The most iconic and wellknown scene from Carrie is

The Case for the Defence

the casting. chloe Grace Moretz plays the troubled teen Carrie White who has a miserable existence. Bullied in school, constantly taunted about her appearance and eccentric qualities. And this torture continues at home which she shares with her religious zealot of a mother, played by Julianne Moore.

Moretz is really good as Carrie.

I was a little bit hesitant when I heard of her casting in the role.

Mainly because she is an attractive girl and well Carrie is not.

But it is to her credit that I soon forgot this when I saw her embody this girl and she turned in a sensitive portrayal of a troubled character. In the original, Sissy Spaseck looked like an actual mouse and her demeanour duly suited so she had an advantage from the off in what was a great performance. Moretz does a solid job and makes you feel for this girl and she almost gets you rooting for her when it all kicks off at prom!

obviously the pig's blood scene.

We all remember the moment as the bucket of blood was emptied all over Carrie by the malevolent Chris and her boyfriend Billy, and the sense of suspense it created. Peirce is so intent on this scene being memorable, she shows a close up of the bucket as the blood starts to spill. Three times. From three different angles. Now, there is such a thing as overkill in a movie, and this is pretty much the epitome of that. It's so totally unnecessary it almost makes the scene laughable, which is not something that you want for this point in the movie.

by Jamie Murphy mean she does stuff in this movie that will leave you dumbfounded. You won’t know whether to shit or wind your wristwatch and will leave you scratching your head in confusion. In the original, Piper Laurie brings Ms. White to huge, screeching, religious nut life. If you haven’t seen her, check out the film. Holy shit, she is certifiable. A complete and utter nut job. Julianne Moore plays her in the remake.

Again, she does a fantastic job as Margaret White. The scenes between her and Carrie are great and they make for really uncomfortable viewing.

The tension between the two is a result of Margaret having Carrie out of wedlock, and she views Carrie as a product of sin. She locks her in a prayer

closet in order to “cleanse” her.

And the torture goes on in school as well. One of the most memorable scenes from the original is here in its horrifying fullness. Carrie is showering with her class mates after a track session. And Carrie gets her first period, but with a religious zealot for a mother the girl is not aware of what is happening and is confused, terrified and thinking it’s probably a result of something she has done.

Carrie’s classmates react in a classy, bitchy way. They peg tampons at her as she cries in the shower imploring her to “plug it up, plug it up!!” This incident is filmed by one of the girls, presumably she is Queen Bitch. The footage is then uploaded and goes viral mak-

I don't know what direction Peirce gave Moretz for this scene, but she is completely overacting. “Here, love, let's make it look like you're walking on the air, move your shoulders loads, that'll show them!”

There's also obviously some sort of homage to The Ring , as on more than one occasion they try to make her look like Samara, for some totally inexplicable

ing Carrie an even bigger laughing stock in a school that collectively treats her like a fart in spacesuit. Unpleasant and unwelcomed. This is just one of many modern updates to the movie, which lifts it out of the “just another remake” bracket.

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’re well aware that regardless of who is in it or who is directing, any remake of carrie is only as good as its graduation night, the prom!

And the original was a masterclass of suspense, shock and gleeful gore. There is so much going on in that scene. It is fundamentally a build-up of tension that explodes with horrific results for all involved. So again, how does the remake stand up?

It stands proud is what it does.

This last scene delivers on every level. Carrie is on her first ever date with uber jock Tommy (ansel Ergot, the only weak point in the movie. He is not a patch on the original Tommy, william Katt). It’s all going great until Super-Bitch Chris (played superbly by Portia doubleday) puts her devious

reason. Added creep factor maybe?

Now let's talk a little about the car crash scene. Is the slow motion really necessary? The car doesn't just crash once, it crashes twice, and both times it's done in slow motion. So we get to see both Billy and Chris's deaths in all the detail.

All of it. Chris's head smashing through the windscreen in slow motion is – yet again – totally unnecessary and overdone. Peirce is clearly trying to add a gore factor to a movie that doesn't need it.

I have no real complaints about the scene with Carrie and her mother's subsequent death, my problem is the additional scene between Sue and Carrie as the house starts to collapse around them. Sue's impassioned plea to Carrie is just an excuse for a moot plot point: Sue is pregnant with Tommy's child.

Why, you ask, would they add this in? To ruin the final scary scene in the movie, because they just want to add more gore to it.

There are plenty of other problems I have with this remake, but only a finite amount of space. The camerawork and editing are shoddy, and the directing leaves a lot to be desired.Overall Peirce's take on Carrie is lacking in all of the things that make the original special, and adds nothing of real consequence to the overall story. As a film it has no real impact on the viewer, and the oversaturation of gore lessens any emotional impact the end sequence could have had. If you want to watch Carrie, my advice is to stick with the original. n

revenge plan on Carrie into action. She and her dolt of a boyfriend Billy (alex Russell) have a load of pig blood placed precariously over Carrie and Tommy’s heads. When they are announced King and Queen, the blood falls and Carrie loses her shit. Magnificently.

The ending of the original is infamous now, with the hand coming out of the grave. A lot of people disliked the remake’s ending. I did not. I won’t spoil it, but I did thoroughly enjoy it.

Especially what happens to Super-Bitch Chris and her dolt of man meat Billy, that is a glorious shot and if you have any ounce of sympathy for Carrie, you will probably laugh uproariously. I know I did!

So there you have it. Forget all that trepidation. This is one of the better remakes out there in so much as it does not once try to recreate the original. It simply tells a story of a girl that was mad as hell and she wasn’t going to take it anymore!!!

They’ll laugh at you, they’ll all laugh at you. They did. But they’re not laughing now, are they Carrie White? n

Log onto our Facebook page “Slaney News” and let us know if it’s Thumbs Up or Thumbs Down for the remake of Carrie.

Slaney Entertainment

www.slaneynews.com

PHELIM ByRNE COOKERy EVENING A Phelim Byrne Cookery Evening will take place at the Riverside Park Hotel on Wednesday, March 25th, at 7.30pm.

MIKE DENVER Mike Denver live at the Riverside Park Hotel on Thursday, March 26th, 2015.

Tickets â‚Ź25. Overnight B&B & Ticket â‚Ź63pps.

PAT SHORTT Pat Shortt live at the Riverside Park Hotel on Friday, April

17th, 2015. Overnight B&B & Ticket â‚Ź96pps.

MANCHESTER UNITED LEGENDS - May 23rd.

The Famous Reds will take on an All-Star Wexford Selection in Ferrycarrig Park on Saturday May 23rd at 3pm. Some of the legends in action will include David May, Sammy McIlroy, Arthur Albiston, Keith Gillespie, Denis Irwin, Neil Webb and Lee Martin. The match will be followed by Dinner with the team at the Riverside Park Hotel. n

While the story features pivotal Biblical characters and events, it blends eras and music genres for an intentionally timeless approach. show is famous for %HVW NQRZQ DV :LQQLH 0F*RRJDQ LQ 0UV > 8pm Thursday 19 February The %URZQV %R\V (LOLVK 2×&DUUROO FRPHV LQWR as "I Don't Know songs such KHU RZQ ZLWK WKLV UHÌHFWLYH ORRN RQ DQ LIVE LOVEHow ToHYHQWIXO OLIH ,I WKLV GRHVQ×W VRXQG \RXU FXS Love Him," "Superstar," RI WHD \RX FRXOGQ×W EH PRUH ZURQJ 7KHUH LAUGH "What'sLV DEVROXWHO\ QRWKLQJ GRZQEHDW DERXW WKLV the Buzz," "This Jesus VKRZ Ö/DXJK RXW ORXG IXQQ\× (GLQEXUJK 7LFNHWV â â 2× 5HLOO\ 7KHDWUH (YHQLQJ 1HZV Join New Ross Musical Society Must Die" and "Everything's for their 2015 production of Alright."

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March @ 8pm. Tickets â‚Ź12/â‚Ź15.

PYGMALION Presented by Bridge Drama 7LFNHWV â -HURPH +\QHV 7KHDWUH

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MARCH ENTERTAINMENT ď‚Œ Check out our pages 11-17 ď‚? See Joseph Doyle’s Diary page 28 ď‚Ž Check www.wexlive.com for updated listings. ď‚? Check in regularly on Facebook: “Slaney Newsâ€? and “Enjoy Enniscorthyâ€?

CU Factor

The Credit Union Factor Talent Competition 2015 is now open for entries. This is a fantastic opportunity open to all individuals between the ages of 12 to 25 years.

Enniscorthy Credit Union presents the CU FACTOR Talent Competition 2015 in Bree Community Hall on Saturday 21st March 2015.

Four lucky finalists will then go through to the Chapter 9 final. Great prizes and a great opportunity.

For more information or an application form please ask any member of the friendly staff in Enniscorthy Credit Union. n

Your “cut out and keep�

> 8pm Saturday 28 February

FINBAR FUREY

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MARCH ENTERTAINMENT All venues are in Enniscorthy unless otherwise stated.

WEXFORD

7LFNHWV â â â 2× 5HLOO\ 7KHDWUH > 8pm Friday 20 March

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THE TRIALS OF GALILEO 7LFNHWV â â -HURPH +\QHV 7KHDWUH

> 8pm Saturday 11 April

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> 8pm Friday 1/Saturday 2 May

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Opera Theatre Company presents

RIGOLETTO

7LFNHWV â â 2× 5HLOO\ 7KHDWUH > 8pm Thursday 18 June

THE LEGENDS OF AMERICAN COUNTRY TRIBUTE SHOW 7LFNHWV â 2× 5HLOO\ 7KHDWUH

Mar 5-13

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Sat 28 Sat 28

Enjoying the regular Friday night trad session in Stamps Pub: Noeleen Williams and Maura Flannery.

Wexford drama festival. Dun Mhuire Theatre, Wexford. See page 11.

An evening of sean nos dance With niamh Page.

Dance. Wexford Arts Centre.

KaraoKe. Castle Bar. traditional irish music. Stamps. 9.30pm. vladimir & anton JabloKov: tWo brothers. Music.

Wexford Arts Centre.

PJ gallagher's concussion. Comedy.

Wexford Arts Centre. nixon. music. official opening of newly renovated function room in vinnie’s, island road. cuPcaKe decorating evening in Toffee & Thyme.

Presented by the Cook Shop at Smyths Arro. See page 18.

Kevin mcaleer. Comedy. Wexford Arts Centre.

KaraoKe. Castle Bar. traditional irish music. Stamps. 9.30pm. classic artists night - the full irish. Music.

Wexford Arts Centre. stars in their eyes. Presented by Shamrocks GAA Club.

Riverside Park Hotel. See page 15.

Johnny & the Jailbirds plus dJs. Rock & Roll.

The Bailey. See page 15. trad session. Stamps. 5-7pm. reilly’s men. Joe Doyle’s pub. the matchmaKer. Drama. Wexford Arts Centre.

KaraoKe. Castle Bar. traditional irish music. Stamps. 9.30pm. little gem. Drama. National Opera House, Wexford.

3rd Wexford youth orchestra festival.

National Opera House, Wexford.

Phelim byrne cookery evening. Riverside Park Hotel. miKe denver. Riverside Park Hotel.

KaraoKe. Castle Bar. traditional irish music. Stamps. 9.30pm. chris holland – from Westend to Wexford. Music.

Wexford Arts Centre. of ladies lost and found. Karen underwood & John o'brien. Music. Wexford Arts Centre. the trials of galileo. Drama. National Opera House, Wexford.



Riverside Park Hotel, enniscorthy

17

It would be prudent to check all events locally with organisers and/or venues.

Thanks to Joseph Doyle for his help with our comprehensive events guide.

Please email your event details to slaneynews@gmail.com.

18

Slaney Food & Drink

4 March 2015

www.slaneynews.com

Wexford Food Summit 2015

The Wexford Food Family, the not-for-profit network of food producers established in 2011 to promote Wexford as a food brand locally, nationally and internationally, is delighted to announce the upcoming Wexford Food Summit 2015.

Scheduled for Friday 13th March 2015 in the Ferrycarrig Hotel, Wexford, the theme of this year ’s Wexford Food

Summit is The Small Advantage and the Big Difference for Irish Food Businesses.

How food businesses can maintain the benefits of being small as a competitive advantage while still growing and how businesses can establish their own point of difference and defend it.

The event will run from 9.30am to 12.30pm and be followed by a complimentary

Flavours Restaurant at Enniscorthy Golf Club Special Mother’s Day 3-Course plus Tea/Coffee Table d’hote Lunch Menu on Sunday 15th of March €25 per person

Free Afternoon Entertainment in the Clubhouse with music by Jimmy Hogan and Lar – Booking is essential so call today: 053-9233191 or 087-7562604

This space can be yours for just €70+VAT

lunch featuring foods from the members of the Wexford Food Family, specially developed by renowned chef Tony Carty.

Speakers so far have been confirmed as follows: Eileen B e n t l e y, S m a l l B u s i n e s s Manager, Bord Bia, and Liam Griffin, the Griffin Group.

A selection of Wexford Food Family members will present case studies, sharing the

stories of their successes and challenges – Mary O’Hanlon of Tasty Parlour, The Gluten Free Kitchen; Tom and Laura Sinnott of Wexford Home Preserves; Rory Fanning of Slaney Foods International.

Presentations will be followed by a panel discussion including speakers, Tom Banville of the Wexford Local Enterprise Office, Neil Murphy of Glanbia and Des Pettitt with

The Cook Shop at Smyths Arro

Cupcake Decorating for

Mother’s Day Cupcake Date for your Diary…

Following on from the success of its two Cupcake Decorating evenings in December the Cook Shop at Smyths Arro has organised a further evening on Thursday 12th March starting at 7pm in Toffee & Thyme, Rafter Street, Enniscorthy, to create some wonderful cupcake ideas for Mother’s Day. It will be presented by Janette Kelly of Blossom Bakes and you will learn how to decorate these cupcakes and take them home beautifully boxed on the evening.

Tickets are €20 (including free glass of Prosecco on arrival).

Places are strictly limited so get your tickets today from the Cook Shop at Smyths Arro or from Toffee & Thyme. n

further members to be confirmed.

This event will be extremely useful to anyone involved in the food business or thinking about starting up a food business.

The Wexford Food Summit is kindly sponsored by the Wexford Local Enterprise Office.

To reserve your place at the Wexford Food Summit please email paula@wexford-

FOOD

foodfamily.com or call Paula Ronan on 086 129 4859. Tickets to the event are €45 each for non-members and €35 for members of the Wexford Food Family. See www.wexfordfoodfamily.com for more information. Places are limited.

See http://www.wexfordfoodfamily.com/becomea-member/ for information on how to become a member of the group. n

FOCUS

Clonhaston, Enniscorthy Contact Billy at (087) 2749493 Fresh Chicken  Whole Chickens  Fillets  Kievs Maryland  Mexican Wraps  Turkey Breast _____________________________________________________ ParTy Food: Goujons, Wedges, Chips, Cocktail Sausages, Prawns in Filo Pastry, Chicken drumsticks, Mini Spring rolls _____________________________________________________ BarBECuE: SteakBurgers, Chicken Kebabs, Sausages _____________________________________________________

and many more items at wholesale prices ✔ Focus on Quality… ✔ Focus on Service… ✔ Focus on Value…

Little Spoon Café-Restaurant NoW opEN Old Dunnes Stores Car Park Lymington Road, Enniscorthy Tel: 087-2927156

Freshly Baked Scones & Cakes Wholesome Homemade Soups All Day Breakfast Daily Specials  Salads Sandwiches  Paninis Speciality Coffees Call in and grab a bite of lunch or simply relax with one of our speciality coffees – Takeaway Service also available

FREE WiFi

Slaney News

www.slaneynews.com

19

Bronze Age Houses uncovered in Enniscorthy Words and Pics by Colm Moriarty

Exciting evidence for Bronze Age activity has been uncovered at Drumgoold, Enniscorthy. This newly discovered site consists of a very large sub-circular enclosure, inside which are at least three Bronze Age houses. It was excavated by Graham Hull of TVAS Ltd, who very kindly gave me a tour of the site just before Christmas.

Somewhat unusually, in an Irish context, the Bronze Age houses were enclosed by a curving ditch, defining an area approximately 185m by 125m in size. The interior was accessed via an earthen causeway, while finds (pottery) recovered from the ditch fills indicate that it dates from the Late Bronze Age (c. 900 – 600 BC).

Centrally placed within the enclosure were the remains of two circular structures. The larger of the two buildings measured circa 8m across and

was defined by a curving slottrench, which most likely acted as foundation for a wooden wall. Inside the structure there was a circuit of large post-holes that probably held roof-supporting timbers, while a series of small stakeholes may have defined internal divisions. The entrance into the building was marked by a broadly southfacing porch, whose floor was cobbled in small stones (to combat wear and tear).

A short distance to the south of this structure was a second, slightly smaller, circular building. Although evidence for an enclosing slot-trench was largely absent, it had a similar layout to the previous building and appeared to be broadly contemporary. Finds recovered from the two structures included Late Bronze Age pottery (c.

900 – 600 BC) and quern stone fragments (for grinding grain into flour).

A third circular building was also identified near the southern edge of the site. It is currently thought that this may be slightly earlier in date than the Late Bronze Age enclosure (there was also evidence for Neolithic and Medieval activity at the site).

One of the more unusual features identified at Drumgoold was an enormous pit, situated to the east of the Late Bronze Age buildings.

With steeply sloping and slightly irregular shaped sides, the pit produced huge quantities of Late Bronze Age pottery. The original purpose of this feature is bit of mystery.

Located in very sandy, freedraining soil, it was unlikely to have been used as a waterpit/well, while it seems unnecessarily large for the disposal of rubbish. Hopefully specialist analysis of soil samples from the pit will shed

Enniscorthy 10K

Above: Site Director Graham Hull onsite with members of the North Wexford Historical Society. Below: The enormous Late Bronze Age pit.

further light on its intended function.

Post-excavation work for this amazing site is on-going and it is hoped that the first findings will be published shortly. I

Make sure to check out the Blog: http://irisharchaeology.ie/ Website: http://irisharchaeology.ie/ Facebook: “irisharchaeology.ie”

Enniscorthy Credit Union 8th February 2014 upgrades computers to better serve members

Mick Maloney

Annis Kehoe, WallyMcKenna, Tracy Kavanagh, Jim Kehoe and Stephanie McKenna.

can’t wait to find out more!

Thanks very much to Graham Hull and also to James Eogan for allowing me visit this very interesting excavation (which is now finished).

Lucille Colfer and Tommy Duggan, Enniscorthy.

There has been some disruption to services at Enniscorthy Credit Union over the last few weeks due to a changeover of computer systems. This was brought about as a result of the need to upgrade the existing systems to better cater for future developments in services. The changeover is now largely completed and all are getting used to the new format and different options when transacting member business.

Some credit unions offer a mobile phone app and the facility to transfer money from your credit union account both on the mobile app and online. Eleven credit unions recently launched a debit card service for members. If Enniscorthy C.U. had not changed its systems, it would not be in a position to even consider offering these services.

Once the new system is up and running and all are accustomed to the change, Enniscorthy C.U. will consider the need for such

services safe in the knowledge that if there is a demand from members, it can provide them.

All members are thanked for their patience and on-going support during this changeover and are assured that their savings are safe and secure and available to them (unless used to secure a loan) on demand.

Enniscorthy C.U. continues to offer very competitive loans for Home Improvements, Weddings, Cars, Education and many other purposes, so call in and enquire about a loan if you are in the market to borrow.

Enniscorthy Credit Union celebrated 50 years of business in 2014 and is a solid, well managed and local business providing employment for over 30 local people. With total assets of nearly €140 million, the credit union believes it is the place for your savings. Savings up to €100,000 are covered by the Deposit Guarantee Scheme administered by the Central Bank of Ireland.

20 10 12

Slaney Business & Finance

New Frontiers The New Frontiers programme is a professional training and enterprise support programme aimed at entrepreneurs who have a well thought out, innovative business idea or technology that has the potential to be transformed into a High potential Start-up company.

The programme is intended to train potential entrepreneurs in the skills required to establish and run their own businesses.

WHERE IS IT BASED? The New Frontiers Programme is co-located at the Enterprise and Research Incubation Centre (ERIC) in IT Carlow and at the ArcLabs Research & Innovation Centre in Waterford Institute of Technology. Both centres have strong track records of successfully providing a business incubation environment that supports entrepreneurial development and company growth.

The partnership between the two incubation centres provides an extensive support network for wider regional business development.

HoW WILL IT WoRk? This three-phase programme will provide, over a six month period, a professional, practical support programme targeted at people who are in the early stages of setting up a technologybased or knowledge-intensive business. Training and support will be provided by experienced practitioners through a structured delivery and assessment process which will provide the required assistance and guidance for the development of commercially viable enterprises. phase 1: Business Feasibility. phase 2: Business Development. phase 3: Business Commercialisation Part-time over 8-10 weeks Idea identification Business evaluation 6 months full-time Structured training Extensive mentoring Investor pitch preparation Hot desk facilities Enterprise Ireland funding of €15,000.

Enniscorthy Business Association needs you!

The association has produced an attractive brochure outlining what it has achieved to date and what work it will be doing in the months and years ahead. To continue their activities and to promote, support and represent the businesses of Enniscorthy, the association needs all local businesses to join up (€30 for a year) and express their views at the EBA’s regular meetings.

The brochure and membership form can be got by emailing the EBA at: e.b.a.enniscorthy@gmail.com or by contacting the Slaney News (tel: 087-2403310, slaneynews@gmail.com). n

Star Content is a writing, editing and proofreading service based in North Wexford. Visit www.starcontent.ie for a full list of services.  Improve the quality of personal writing projects at home, college or in the community  Content solution for your business or organisation  Add some creativity and flair to your content  Sentences that flow – perfect grammar and spelling  Make the right first impression with a professionally written business plan  Hassle-free web content  Perfectly written brochures – no mistakes and a clear call to action  Boost traffic to your business website with a blog Start improving your content now Call Caroline on 087-7946277 Email starcontent@hotmail.com Visit www.starcontent.ie

4 March 2015 Investor-ready Business Plan Route to Market strategies.

Customer value proposition refinement.

WHo IS ELIGIBLE To AppLy? Applicants should be potential entrepreneurs who have a well thought-out, innovative business idea or technology that has the potential to be transformed into a high potential start-up company. The business concept should be: – Knowledge based – Innovative in nature – Have job creation potential – Have export potential or potential to earn external revenues – Have been well researched prior to application WHAT SUppoRTS ARE pRoVIDED? − Shared office accommodation in the Enterprise & Research Incubation Centre located at the Institute of Technology Carlow or at the Arclabs Research & Innovation Centre located at Waterford Institute of Technology. − Hands-on business advice

and direction. − Access to training and consultancy services of partner organisations. − Introduction to networks of mentors, venture capitalists and other support agencies. − Personal mentoring relevant to grow the enterprise or product, development under the programme mentoring scheme delivered by experts in the field of business management and development. − Enterprise Ireland support funding up to a maximum of €15,000 for participants in Phase 2.

Further information on the New Frontiers Programme can be found on the New Frontiers website: http://www.itcarlow.ie/enterprise/new-frontiers-programme.htm Or by contacting: Maresa Fitzhenry, New Frontiers Administrator, Enterprise & Research Incubation Centre, Institute of Technology Carlow, Kilkenny Road, Carlow.

T: 059 91 75220 F: 059 91 75221 E: maresa.fitzhenry@itcarlow.ie W: www.eric.ie n

New IDA Regional Manager welcomed Wexford County Council has welcomed the recent appointment by the IDA of Ms. AnneMarie Tierney-Le Roux to the post of Regional Manager for the South East.

Ms. Tierney-Le Roux will have responsibility for the counties of Wexford, Waterford, Carlow, Kilkenny and South Tipperary and her main role will be to market the region to prospective FDI clients seeking to locate in the South East, working to ensure that appropriate property solutions are available in the region for FDI, together with the management of existing client relationships.

Ms. Tierney-Le Roux brings much experience to the role, having most recently worked as Director of Europe with IDA Ireland where she was responsible for encouraging European foreign direct investment to Ireland through the European network of IDA offices. AnneMarie, who is originally from County Kilkenny, has 13 years

of experience with IDA Ireland and has gained an excellent working knowledge and experience of the South East, having previously held portfolios including Regional Executive (Waterford) and Technology D i v i s i o n ( V P I n w a rd Investment, Waterford).

“I congratulate Anne-Marie on her new position. It is greatly welcomed and should further assist Wexford County Council in our concerted efforts to encourage the creation of jobs in County Wexford” said Mr. Tony Larkin, Director of Economic Development and Planning at Wexford County Council. “The appointment of Anne-Marie as Regional Manager to the South East underpins IDA’s commitment to the region and its stated intention to strongly market the region under the South East Plan and to implement a range of measures to support jobcreation and to encourage FDI in this region.

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“I also welcome the recently published Government’s Action Plan for Jobs which states as its aim ‘to support enterprise growth and job creation in every region of the country,’” said Mr. Larkin. “The pace of progress in the regions, especially those with the highest unemployment levels such as Wexford, needs to be accelerated through targeted supports for enterprise and job creation. As IDA Regional Manager for the South East Anne-Marie will play a key role in fulfilling this aim by helping to deliver those supports and attracting further investment into County Wexford, building on the strong recent progress made when companies such as Water Technologies Ireland Ltd, Zurich Ireland and ClearStream Technologies Limited (a subsidiary of CR Bard), amongst others, announced the creation of significant numbers of new jobs in County Wexford.”

Mr. Larkin added, “County Wexford offers excellent potential to modern industry and investors due to its strategic location as the focal county in the South East region. A comprehensive mix of sites and modern buildings are available across the County, both in business parks owned and promoted by the development agencies and also some that are privately developed.

Enquiries on sites and premises throughout the county are always welcome and should be directed to IDA Ireland or to our Local Enterprise Office here at Wexford County Council where they will receive every possible assistance and consideration.”

Mr Larkin also paid tribute to Ray O’Connor of IDA who has managed the South East region for a number of years and thanked him for his strong contribution to the promotion of business investment throughout the South East region. n

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Slaney Business & Finance

www.slaneynews.com

45 new jobs in Wexford

Microfinance Microfinance Ireland (MFI) lends to businesses which have 10 employees or less and a turnover of less than €2m per annum. MFI is supporting 1,000 jobs to date in only its second year of operation and over 430 micro-enterprises have benefited from Microfinance Ireland loans. An additional 1,000 jobs have been targeted in 2015, which would bring the total number of jobs supported by Microfinance Ireland to 2,000.

The Government provided funding of €10m as part of the Action Plan for Jobs to enable Microfinance Ireland provide loan finance to micro-enterprises who have not been able to access loans elsewhere.

After its second full year of trading, Microfinance Ireland has doubled its previously approved lending. Microfinance Ireland’s portfolio of approved loans now stands at over €6m.

Over 75% of lending by Microfinance Ireland has been to businesses located outside Dublin and the average loan size is around €15,000.

Minister for Business and Employment, Ged Nash TD, said, “Government initiatives like Microfinance Ireland are now bearing real fruit, impacting on real jobs and providing real hope for business people

and their families who are entrepreneurs. These people create jobs – not just take them up.

“I am particularly pleased to see that 75% of the microenterprises surveyed by Microfinance Ireland say they plan to hire new staff this year.

Small and medium size businesses really are the engine of our economy and this level of confidence among Microfinance Ireland’s clients bodes well for our targets to return to full employment by 2018.”

“I believe the strong level of engagement between Microfinance Ireland and the b Local Enterprise Offices, which i are a first stop shop for small businesses is working very well. This is a joined up approach and frankly makes a lot of sense as microenterprises can go to their LEO for advice, mentoring and to access supports available from Government, but also can use the LEO as a link to getting small loans from Microfinance Ireland to grow their businesses.”

Microfinance Ireland is a 100% owned subsidiary company of the Social Finance e Foundation and is a private, not-for-profit entity which has been mandated by Government to deliver its statutory based Microfinance Loan Fund. n

Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Councillor Malcolm Byrne, has welcomed the announcement last month by Zurich A Great Business Opportunity Insurance of the creation of Run Your Own Business as Part of our Award Winning Tourism Team 45 new, full-time jobs at its Do you want to run your business from an award winning tourist attraction? dedicated Centre of Do you want to be part of the most successful tourism start up in the South East?

Excellence at Drinagh, Do you want to be part of a team committed to being the No 1 tourist attraction on the East Coast?

Wexford.

'R \RX ZDQW WR WDNH DGYDQWDJH RI WKH EHVW RSSRUWXQLW\ WR RSHQ DQ LQGRRU FKLOGUHQ·V DFWLYLW\ LQ WKH

The new roles, which are South East? now open to applicants, span Do you want three months free rental to begin your business? a broad range of functions Do you want business support & four free business mentoring sessions to help you start & build your including underwriting, business? claims management, marIf the answer is yes to all the above send an outline of your business plan or business concept to info@wellshouse.ie :H·UH ORRNLQJ IRU WKH PRVW LQQRYDWLYH H[FLWLQJ FKLOGUHQ·V DFWLYLW\ EXVLQHVV SURYLGHU WR House & Gardens whose business idea matches exactly our ethos of quality, amazing keting, and IT. operate at Wells H[SHULHQFHV IRU RXU YLVLWRUV :H·UH ORRNLQJ WR VHOHFW IURP WKRVH ZKR DSSO\ RQO\ RQH YHU\ VSHFLDO SURYLGHU Speaking from Zurich

Offices in Wexford at the announcement, Councillor AND YOUR Byrne said, “Employers such NEW BUSINESS as Zurich require access to ? modern high quality services infrastructure such as water services, road network, etc. Wexford County Council has strategically invested in the provision of such infrastructure throughout our county and will continue to Wells House & Gardens, Ballyedmond, Gorey (www.wellshouse.ie) do so into the future. eis a relatively new visitor www.wellshouse.ie T & C apply attraction in Co. Wexford but remarkably It is also necessary that in 2014 it attracted 98,000 visitors – a huge achievement. www.wellshouse.ie It is now looking to rent an existing buiding on the siteTto& C apply companies seeking to invest in Wexford can access a somebody to open and operate a children’s indoor activity centre. highly educated and skilled If this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for then contact workforce such as available Wells House now by email: info@wellshouse.ie here in Wexford and I have and get the ball rolling! T&C apply.

Wells & Gardens Gardens WellsHouse House &

Better communications on 11th February Wexford County Council announced the appointment of David Minogue, Administrative officer, to the newly-created position of Communications officer with the Council.

Based in the Council’s headquarters at Carriglawn, Wexford, David is responsible for the overall development and application of strategic communications initiatives at Wexford County Council. David previously worked as District Administrator with the Enniscorthy Municipal District where his hard work and dedication were much appreciated by all who had dealings with him.

“David’s appointment as Communications Officer further strengthens this Council’s clear commitment to providing excellence in service to the people of Wexford,” said Tom Enright, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council.

“David has a unique skill-set which is particularly suited to this new position. In addition, he has a strong track record of experience gained over many years in a variety of departments at Wexford County Council. Combining these skills and experience

David Minogue, Communications Officer, Wexford County Council.

makes David the ideal candidate to fill this key function at Wexford County Council.

David will also play a key role in the development of Customer Service Centres in each of the four Municipal District Offices.”

David brings more than 30 years of local authority experience to the role of Communications Officer. Most recently, he served as District Administrator at Enniscorthy Municipal District, having previously served as Town Clerk in each of the towns of Enniscorthy, Gorey and New Ross. David also gained valuable experience in other key

21

departments within Wexford County Council, including R o a d s , Wa t e r S e r v i c e s , Planning, Housing and Finance.

“Wexford County Council has a long and proud track record in serving the people of County Wexford. Our primary focus is the provision of firstclass customer service across all our departments” said David. “Key to our role as the primary provider of public services in County Wexford is the need to communicate with our customers, elected representatives, business communities, government departments, other public bodies and our own staff in a positive, timely and transparent manner and I am very much looking forward to playing my part in this regard.”

In the few weeks since David took on this new role this newspaper has noticed a huge improvement in the quantity and quality of communication from Wexford County Council. Long may it continue.

David Minogue can be contacted at Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carriglawn, Wexford. Office: 053-9196000. Direct Line: 0539196680. Email: david. minogue@wexfordcoco.ie n

Mr. Tony Larkin, Director of Economic Development and Planning.

no doubt that these additional jobs will provide a welcome and attractive opportunity to people living in the local area.”

Mr. Tony Larkin, Director of Economic Development and Planning, also attended the announcement. ”This announcement is a further vote of confidence by Zurich in their business centre in Wexford” said Mr. Larkin.

“Zurich’s location here in Drinagh continues to grow in importance within Zurich Insurance’s business operations in Ireland and is further proof that County Wexford is rapidly gaining a reputation, nationally and internationally, as an excellent location in which to locate and do business.” n

Electionitis!

Sean Doyle speaking at a recent event in Enniscorthy Castle.

With election talk filling the air we came across an interesting piece written by one of our regular contributors nearly eight years ago on 10th May 2007. Sean Doyle – a prophet in his own land…

“It is now depressingly obvious with the plethora of recent policy statements and attempts to bribe us with our own money that there are few real policy differences between two main contenders for Government – Fine Gael/ Labour and Fianna Fáil/ Progressive Democrats.

There is no great vision embodied in any of the manifestos. It would appear that the spin doctors have decided that the contents should be used as a marketing tool and directed at particular sections of the electorate. An example is the proposal regarding stamp duty.

None of the parties seem perturbed about rising inflation, a wavering property mar-

ket and our diminishing competitiveness. All the parties have chosen liberal spending increases over any form of the restructuring of our public services including the health sector, which certainly requires a root and branch reform.

It appears that our politicians have learned nothing from past experiences. They still indulge in auction politics and lavish promises all over the place. They must be assuming that our present growth rates are going to continue for the lifetime of the next Government. Apparently, all of the parties are assuming that a four to five per cent growth rate is going to continue for

the next five years or so. None of them have prepared us for the eventuality of it all going wrong.

If the opposition parties are elected to Government the public will be expecting instant solutions to many intractable problems. They have severely c r i t i c i s e d t h e p re s e n t Government for their lack of effort on several fronts and have created an impression that if they are elected everything will be plain sailing. The expectation of the electorate will be raised to expect instant action in many areas of government activity within a short period and of course it will not happen.” n

South East employment growth “The South-East region is experiencing employment growth according to the latest CSO figures”, says local Fine Gael TD Paul Kehoe. “The figures show that in Quarter 4 of last year, 204,500 people were in employment in the South East region, representing a 12.8% increase since the launch of the Action Plan for Jobs by the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton in February 2012.

“60% of the 30,000 jobs created last year were outside of Dublin, which dispels the myth that this is a Dublin only recovery. Wexford has seen jobs created by Danone Nutricia, Clearstream Bard, Coca Cola and Eistec.

“The Government is now focussed on achieving 40,000 jobs in 2015 alone and reaching full employment by 2018. We want every person around the country to feel the benefit of the continuing economic recovery,” says Paul Kehoe. n

22

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Slaney Pet News

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23

Make Your Home Dog Friendly

PEt aPPROvEd

VET DIARY FOR MAR. with the Moyne Veterinary Clinic

This month, Joe Kavanagh, looks at animal intelligence.

On the theme of animals’ intelligence I often think that we are the ones playing catch up and that they are the ones way ahead.

The have abilities innate in them that far outstrip anything man-made or even what we can do. Take for instance the dogs that are now used to work with epileptic patients. They are able to alert the minder/relatives of a patient's imminent epileptic fit before it actually happens. I wasn't aware until very recently that they now use dogs to alert if a diabetic patient is in danger of having a hypoglycemic attack i.e. if their blood sugars drop dangerously low. I often ask myself how do they do that… What is it they are sensing?

When you come down in the morning your dog, cat or horse isn't looking to see what hair-do you've got, they're sensing your energy field and are reading it. This innate ability, I believe, is within all of us except we've lost the ability over time. Like a muscle that's not used it begins to shrink and so too our innate abilities as kids that aren't encouraged and nurtured begin to fade and wane.

Having an appreciation for the level our little companions work at is probably the first step on our journey back to ourselves. These wonderful, patient and kind creatures are nudging us to step forward and allow our gut feeling guide us again instead of all the media that scrambles us into a different way of thinking.

Spring is here, Mother Nature is beginning to blossom again. Allow your dog to guide you to the woods, the forest paths or our majestic beaches.

You'll both be the better for it. If they can alert a minder of an imminent epileptic fit in a person I reckon they can read our mood and mind too… enough to know where to bring us! Trust them to show the way!

Dogs bring companionship, joy and even security to a home. They become a member of the family, so of course you want to ensure your home is a comfortable and safe place for you to share.

A little preparation and adjustment goes a long way and will limit the risk of the dog hurting itself or causing accidental damage to your property or belongings. Various scenarios can arise in the home where a pet can unintentionally put itself in danger or cause damage, but these can be avoided by taking some simple safety precautions.

DANGERoUS oBjECTS A little care and foresight can prevent a lot of stress and upset later on. Search your home for potential hazards such as low hanging items, e.g. electrical wires or blind cords, heavy items that could fall from a height, or anything that could choke the dog if it is chewed. Do what you can to keep your dog out of harm’s way; you can tie a knot high up in a blind cord to shorten its length, tape wires and cables out of the way, and reposition other hazards around your home to safer places. poISoNoUS MATERIALS Dogs are curious creatures by nature and tend to presume everything is food! Everyday household items can poison dogs; items such as medication, cleaning supplies, insect repellents, washing powder, and even chocolate. The illnesses caused vary from life-threatening to hefty vet bill, and are of course best avoided. Please ensure that these products are not left within reach of your dog.

HoME FURNISHINGS If you have the advantage of designing your home interior with your canine friend in mind, then choices such as wooden or tiled floors instead of carpets will make your life easier.

Some dogs shed hair and some don’t, but all puppies will have accidents during the training period and carpet is more difficult to clean and maintain.

When choosing furniture it is also worth considering more durable options for pieces such as sofas, which your dog might be climbing on with its sharp nails. Strategically placed throws and some training will also lessen this issue.

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Dogs tend to rub against walls making paint the smarter choice for dog owners over wallpaper.

It is easier to clean and refresh, and it doesn’t tear. oUTDooR SAFETy Your outdoor space needs as much consideration as inside your home, with certain elements that also need to be checked to ensure your pet’s safety at all times. Firstly, make sure there are no escape routes. Again, as curious animals, if there is an escape route they are likely to take it, unaware of the dangers and the risk of getting lost. Bearing in mind your dog’s ability to jump and dig, check fencing is high enough and deep enough in the ground, and that there are no gaps or holes.

Remember, fencing also protects your dog from other dogs or wild animals that may cause it harm.

Some plants may need to be kept out of your dog’s reach in your garden, both to preserve them and to avoid your dog having an allergic reaction. Plants including lilies, tulips and ivy can upset dogs when eaten.

Finally, garden items such as ladders, bins and heavy tools should be secured away to avoid accidents.

Article courtesy of Donohoes Hardware and Topline (www.facebook.com/DonohoesHardware, www.donohoeshardware.ie)

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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

The accompanying pictures were taken by award winning photographer Myles Carroll who was out on a charter boat last month that operates whale and dolphin tours.

As well as a mother dolphin, her calf and some of their mates, he also snapped a pretty big whale (see above).

Martin Colfer, who is the skipper on the boat, says that these sightings are not a rare occurrence but they are always a delight for people on his tours.

“There could be anything up to 50 or 60 dolphins in one group and then you go another few miles and there are another 50,” he said.

The large groups of dolphins are generally very friendly, he said, getting close to the boat and swimming alongside. He said fin whales are also frequently spotted in the waters between mid November and mid February, during herring season.

“People come from all over. Some people think it can only be seen on television or in another country but we have it here in our own country.”

More information on these tours can be found by calling 087 2657177. n

Pic: Myles Carroll (Facebook: Miley Carroll Photography)

To advertise in Slaneynews please call the Hotline 087-2403310

24

Slaney History

4 March 2015

www.slaneynews.com

If a picture tells a thousand words… 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 Athenaeum). And if you mention the Slaney News he’ll give you 20% OFF the price!

And don’T forgET: IbAr sPECIAlIsEs In rECoPyIng And rEsTorIng old PhoTos. CAll In Any TImE for morE InformATIon.

Above: ICA Enniscorthy AGM held in March 1985.

Left: Enniscorthy CBS concert in March 1985.

Both photos are by Ibar Carty. Pics: © Ibar Carty.

Can you help?

Ibar Carty has opened up his vast photo archives to the Slaney News. In this 44th of a series, Ibar shares more photos taken in the Enniscorthy area 30 years ago. If you can supply the names of any of the people featured in these photos, Ibar and the Slaney News would be delighted to hear from you. Please email the names to: slaneynews@gmail.com. Thank you.

Ibar would love to get some information on the above photo.

It was taken around the 1920s in Enniscorthy district. A very interesting picture of a funeral of a possible civil war victim.

A local contributor looks at life today in Enniscorthy and beyond Pic: ©Joseph Doyle

View from the Hill t.D.s’ travEl ExPEnSES The Sunday Times recently highlighted the fact that a number of T.D.s and Senators had changed their route to and from Leinster House to enable them claim extra travel expenses.

The political profession is the only one in the country where people who are elected to the Dail or Senate are allowed claim travel expenses to drive to work.

And this is on top of a basic salary of €1,576 per week for a T.D. and €1,250 for a Senator.

The Times reported that Wicklow’s Deputy Anne Ferris had changed her route to enable her claim an extra €16,000 per

year, that’s an extra €307 per week on top of the €180 per week she was already receiving weekly for this journey, to travel a distance similar to that of Enniscorthy to Wexford.

That’s a total of €487 per week just to travel to work. Ms. Ferris stated that she had no apologies to make for this as she decided to take a different route because of heavy traffic in Bray (where she lives) and roadworks in the area. It apparently never occurred to her to take the Dart which runs from Bray Station every 15 minutes to Pearse Station Dublin. Bray Station is 10 minutes walk from

her Bray office and Pearse Station in Dublin is 10 minutes walk from Leinster House.

The weekly fare on the Dart would be approximately €30 per week. This would be a saving to the taxpayer of €457 per week or €23,764 per year.

It’s worth noting that there is no audit of these claims and that no receipts have to be produced. No wonder we are paying property tax, water charges, income tax and many more taxes. We owe the Sunday Times a debt of gratitude for highlighting this scandal and hopefully at long last this ridiculous allowance will be abolished completely. Wishful thinking, I suppose.

ElEction talk The current Government has more than a year to run in its term of office. Yet every newspaper we pick up, radio or television programme which deals with current affairs we listen to or view, appears to be in election mode. This is actually doing no service to any of us as it is deflecting the minds of Ministers and T.D.s from the task of running the country to that of running an election campaign. Whatever our individ-

ual opinions on the present or potential governments, I think the time has come for consideration to be given to fixed term parliaments. In other words once a government has been elected a date for the next election would be set in stone.

This would allow those we elect concentrate on the task in hand without this continuous speculation as to when the Taoiseach of the day would call an election.

Another thing which should be restricted are the silly motions of no confidence in particular Ministers being put forward by the opposition of the day in the full knowledge that the government is going to win each time. All this exercise does is take up valuable Dáil time (sometimes up to two days which is 50% of a Dáil week) which should be used to deal with legislation and other important public business.

Some reforms have been introduced over the past few years and actually do improve the workings of our parliament.

A few more would be helpful. court WitnESSES None of us would wish to be involved with the courts if we

could help it. There are times, however , when it is unavoidable. People are called as witnesses and on most occasions nobody even notices. This is not always the situation, particularly in controversial cases, which are hitting the news every night for weeks at time in some instances. What I object to is the harassment of innocent witnesses, who are assisting the courts with their evidence, by photographers and camera crews as they enter and leave a court. This should not be allowed. We should have a law preventing camera people from coming anywhere near the precincts of a court while in session and only allow images of individuals who have actually been convicted of a crime to be published.

DEvEloPmEnt lEviES A recent Dáil question unearthed the information that Wexford Co. Council, combined with the former urban authorities in Co. Wexford, is holding something like €47m in development levies. These figures are as of December 2012, the latest available.

Apparently there are severe restrictions as to how the

Council can spend this money and is prohibited from using it to provide essential services as it sees fit. There are technical reasons for this. Perhaps some of our councillors could raise the matter and establish the true position as of today and see what can be done to release some of these funds for much needed works.

St. Patrick’S Day Hard to believe that we are almost back to St. Patrick’s Day. The past year seems to have flown by. The 17th of March is the day on which each town and village shows its colours through its parade. Over many years Enniscorthy has kept this tradition alive through the hard work and dedication of the organisers who so willingly give of their time to this venture.

This year will be no exception with the various clubs and other groups turning out in support.

Let’s hope for good weather and a good turnout from the public to show our appreciation of all the hard work by those who make it possible, sometimes in very difficult circumstances. n Words by: “View from the Hill” Vinegar Hill pic by: Joseph Doyle

Slaney Around the Region

www.slaneynews.com

BUNCLODY… BuncloDy liBrary: 'hello Brain' Workshop with iseult cremin – thurs 5 march 7.00pm. In this workshop, Iseult will show that decline in brain function is not an inevitable part of ageing. This workshop will explain how the brain works and how to keep it healthy. national tree Week – Fri 6 march. Bug Hunter event for schools.

Declutter therapy Workshop – Sat 7 march 2.30pm. Spring clean your life with Breda Stack, The Declutter Therapist™.

Breda, author of Declutter Therapy, will host this workshop; she will provide information and tips on wardrobe and general decluttering, encompassing aspects of personal style, lifestyle, environment, organisation and mindset. There will be time for question and answers at the end of the workshop. information night with local Enterprise office - thurs 12 mar 7.00pm. The Local Enterprise Office helps start up small businesses in county Wexford with a range of practical supports including advice and information, business train-

ing and mentoring, business networking and grant aid. Tom Banville, Head of Local Enterprise, will provide information on the night and highlight the services available.

Seachtain na gaeilge – Wed 18 march. Comic Art Workshop for schools.

‘Summer Flowers seed to plot with geoff Stebbings ’ – thurs 19 march 7.00pm. In conjunction with Bunclody Horticultural Society, acclaimed author and gardening expert Geoffrey Stebbings will give a talk on 'What to do in the garden for summer flowers from seed to plot'. aibitír – an exhibition of the irish alphabet in botanical art will be shown throughout march. The Irish Alphabet in Botanical Art exhibition by the Irish Society of Botanical Artists, comprises an eighteen lettered Alphabet. Each painting marries the first letter of the Irish name of a native Irish plant with a depiction of the plant itself with the title font specifically designed by calligrapher Tim O’Neill. Each painting is labelled with the species scientific, Irish and common English names.

BARNTOWN…

Demonstration of Botanical art with Breda malone – Sat 21 mar 11.00am. Breda will do a demonstration of painting Botanical Art and will give tips and hints on this style of painting.

Book to Screen Film Showing for children – Sat 21 mar 2.304.05pm. Please contact the library for details. introduction to anthropology with Diana gouveia – thurs 26 mar 7.00pm.

Diana Gouveia, PhD, is a lecturer in Anthropology in Maynooth University (the only Department of Anthropology in the Republic of Ireland) and Subject Leader for Anthropology on the First Arts degree in their Kilkenny Campus.

Book to Screen Film Showing for adults – Sat 28 mar 2.304.10pm. Please contact the library for details.

Equal Skills computer literacy skills course continues 9 March – 15 April.

Benefit4 ‘Would you like to get online?’ course runs from 5 March – 2 April. rEgular aDult EvEntS: adult reading circle meets monthly on Fridays at 11.00 am.

New National School at Barntown.

Left: The Time Capsule before its sealing.

Above: Ivan Donoghue (of Kents Stainless, Wexford) and his son Liam, seal the Time Capsule at Barntown National School.

BREE HUNT… ‘Drop of ink’ creative Writing class. The next meeting will be on 19 March. rEgular chilDrEn’S EvEntS: toddler Story time, Fridays at 12-12.30pm.

Junior Book club, meets monthly on Thursdays at 4.00pm.

For full listing of events see Bunclody Library’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/BunclodyLibrary/ev ents where you can sign up for the monthly e-newsletter. Also see website: http://www.wexford.ie/wex/Departments/Libr ary/WhatsOn/

WhiSt Every Monday Night in St. Aidan’s Hall.

St vincEnt DE Paul Local Confidential helpline 087 3696883, please call if you need help. There is a newspaper recycling bin beside SuperValu in aid of S.V.P. n

FErnS craFtS cEntrE Shop now open in Gething’s carpark. Craft meetings every Weds, Thurs, Fri, Sat at 11am.

Rachel: 087-3896297. n

VISIT OF INTERNATIONAL YOGA TEACHER the curracloe yoga centre in Wexford has announced the tenth visit of international yoga teacher rachel lovegrove for a weekend of yoga from Friday, march 20, to Sunday, march 22, 2015. lovegrove’s annual visits to curracloe are now a focal point of the local yoga calendar, with overseas bookings often made months in advance.

Having run Yoga courses in India, Portugal, Spain, England and elsewhere, she

is highly impressed with Curracloe House as a venue for Yoga and the general interest in the practice in the southeast of Ireland. She says, “Curracloe Yoga Centre has all the necessary facilities for a relaxing Yoga experience, and its attractive location close to the sea and the forest at Raven Point make it the ideal place for a weekend of Yoga in beautiful, calming surroundings”.

Lovegrove has been practicing Yoga for over 20 years

and has spent more than a decade teaching at the highest international level. She specialises in the Iyengar Yoga method that is becoming increasingly popular all over Ireland, including the South East, and is enthusiastic about sharing her knowledge of Yoga and the many benefits it can bring.

The weekend at Curracloe will be suitable for students of Yoga at all levels. The schedule is: Friday, March 20, one session from 7pm to

MACRA…

On April 16th, the students then move up to Bunclody Library to display their photos as part of the centre's annual photography exhibition, with images covering a range of topics from landscapes to macro and everything in between, the show runs until the end of the month.

If you are in the area, why not drop into both events. n

FERNS… community cEntrE For more information call Danny on 087-9961335 or Email: fernscommunity@ gmail.com.

Bree Hunt Ball, Riverside Park Hotel, 28th February.

Above: Sally O Morchoe, John Fortune and Wren Cooper.

Below: Maise Kiely, Belinda O’Brien and Aoife Doyle.

alcoholicS anonymouS Local meetings are held on Tuesdays and Saturdays at 8.30 pm in Brennan’s, Market Square, Bunclody.

BUNCLODY VTOS it's all go at Bunclody vtoS… The students of Bunclody VTOS are proud to launch their new cookery book on Tuesday March 10th at their centre on Ryland Road, with recipes for dishes from Poland, Lithuania and Ireland, there's sure to be something for everyone's taste, all proceeds from the sale of the book will go to the Hope Cancer Charity.

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9pm. Saturday, March 21, two sessions, from 10am to 1pm, and 2pm to 4pm. Sunday, March 22, one session, 10am to 1pm.

The cost for the full weekend is €95, and light refreshments will be provided on Saturday and Sunday for a nominal extra charge.

For further information and bookings visit www.orangetreeyoga.com or email Mary at madu@eircom.net or call 053-9131328 or 087-2250736. n

BREE TAKE WExFoRD MACRA SoCCER TITLE. There was strong competition at the recent Wexford Macra 5-a-side soccer finals, held in St. Joseph's Kilmuckridge and hosted by Blackwater Macra na Feirme. Bree and Blackwater met in the final with Blackwater scoring in the final minute to draw level at full time. During extra time the battle continued before Shane Doyle from Bree tapped in to give his side the win. The Bree team now go through to the NDC National Finals, being held in Gormanstown, Meath on 1st of March.

Pictured above are the winning Bree Team L-R: Conor Byrne, Cian Rogers, James Parle, Mark Waters, Shane Doyle, John Healy, Niall Jones.

Cushinstown win Wexford Macra Question Time in the Horse and Hound, Ballinaboola, Friday, 20th of February to qualify for the National Finals to be held on February 28th. L-R: John Flood, James Power, James Forrestal and Colm Ryan.

26

Slaney Sport & Leisure

4 March 2015

www.slaneynews.com

St Patrick’s Pitch & Putt Club

Planning for the future on tuesday 17th Feb members, past members and members of the public came together at Bellefield gaa complex to formulate a 5 year Plan going forward for rapparees/ Starlights gaa club.

Facilitated by County Board members Des Croke and Joe Sheehan all interested individuals sat down in the Club’s function room to come up with a blueprint for success over the next 5 years. Before commencing the business of the evening Des Croke complimented the Club on having the largest gathering so far in the county with 72 people present something that already augured well for the Club and for the work of the night.

T h e a i m o f t h e 5 Ye a r Strategic Development Plan is to set realistic, progressive targets for the Club to achieve during the lifespan of the plan.

The workshops began with discussion on where the Club

would like to see itself in 5 years time under each of the following headings: 1. C o a c h i n g & G a m e s Development 2. Facilities & Developments 3. C l u b S t r u c t u re s & Administration 4. Communications/PR & Culture 5. Finance & Fundraising All the information gleaned will be prioritised and formulated into a coherent and workable plan by the Steering Committee made up of the Club’s Officers and the 5 Chairmen of the above sub committees.

The Plan will then go to print and will be launched in the Clubhouse with a copy for each and every member. It will then become a living document and a work in progress with each of the 5 Focus Groups reviewing, assessing and adapting to ensure that it continues to facilitate the Club in reaching its full potential. n

Enniscorthy Ladies Golf the captains' Drive-in on Sunday, 22nd February, was a lead-in to the great number of enthusiastic golfers who took part in the White Elephant scramble on tuesday 24th February. there was a fantastic turn-out for this time of year with the sun shining on the proceedings. Players enjoyed a delicious meal afterwards in the clubhouse with presentation of prizes to round off the day.

First: Ciara Sharkey (4), Pauline Murphy (35), Patricia Thornton -Byrne (36) 44.5.

Second: Cora Mernagh (12), Vera Garry (24), Dervla Tierney (36) 51.8.

Third: Teresa Bailey (15), Fionnuala Killilea (27), Majella Wall (29) 52.9.

Fourth: Helen Cosgrave (11), Hilary Kehoe (31), Ann Wall (36) 53.2.

Fifth: Eimear McGrath (10), Kay Ryan (34), Joan Kavanagh (36) 54.

Congratulations to all.

Looking to the week ahead – Tuesday 10th March is a threeperson team event sponsored by the club.

Yoga/Pilates classes commence today, Wednesday 4th March, at 10am in the clubhouse.

Contact teacher Jane Kennedy on 087-2724506 if you would like to participate.The course consists of five classes and cost is €50.

And now to an important question for all golfers. Have you ever put your ball over a boundary fence and wondered, " What is the rule for this eventuality?" For all those who would like to learn more about the rules of golf or refresh themselves on the subject a rules night is being held on Thursday 12th at 7.30pm given by the club's own Lucy Healey.

Lucy is a grade one I.L.G.U. referee qulified by the R and A and we are fortunate to have her as our sounding board on rules.

This is a great opportunity to familiarise yourself with the dos and don'ts of golf. n

Pic: Maria Nolan

The Club Executive will meet twice yearly and assess the progress of the Plan against its stated objectives and if required the Plan will be either modified or expanded and the Executive Committee will be responsible for communicating the revised version to all club members.

The cause endures, the work continues, and the dream shall never die! ___________________________

Dave has been with us since his home, Murphy Floods Hotel, closed and he has been a loyal and true servant over all the years. Customers of the Bellefield Bar have found him to be courteous, helpful and obliging and he will be sorely missed. On behalf of all the members of Rapparees/Starlights we would like to wish him well in his retirement and on a personal level I would like to say a sincere thank you to David for his kindness and assistance to me in my position as both Secretary and Pavilion Manager over many years.

– Maria Nolan PRO n

last month we bade a fond farewell to our Bar manager David Wall who is heading off into the sunset to take life a little easier.

Enniscorthy Tennis O'Neill and Guy Pernagallo.

Overall the tournament was a huge success and a big thank you to Alan Doyle for organising the event.

See page 6 for information on upcoming Hillbrook table quiz in The Bailey. n

hillbrook lawn tennis club, Enniscorthy, recently ran a successful Winter men's Doubles tournament.

Alan Doyle and Alan McNally came through a tight final triumphing on a scoreline of 9 games to 6 against Louie

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the 2015 season has taken off with a bang for St. Patrick's Pitch and Putt club, Enniscorthy, with the news that the Parnell avenue course has followed up its first ever gold award from last year by being awarded the honour again this year.

This great achievement further cements the Enniscorthy club's position as one of the top pitch and putt centres in Ireland and is given out by the governing body, the P.P.U.I., in recognition of the excellence of the course and its condition all year round. The club members are delighted with the award and it vindicates all the hard work of the lads involved in maintaining the course to such a high standard for 365 days a year. This team is led by Nigel Baxter and they work long hours to ensure that everything is done to keep the course in such good condition that its recognised as one of the country's premier venues.

The club held its A.G.M. last week and there was a good attendance. Chairman Aidan O'Brien welcomed those present and congratulated the club on its tremendous achievements in 2014 in winning All Ireland and Leinster titles and hoped that the feat could be repeated this year.

In an unusual step, the members voted to make Peter Carroll an honorary life member in recognition of his service to the club and he is now the only member left of the

group which started it all in the late 1960's. Peter was also reelected President and wished a return to full health by all present.

Other officers elected were: Chairman – Aidan O'Brien, Sec./Treas. – Mervyn Cooney, P.R.O. and Competition Sec. – Aidan Whelan, Juvenile Liaison Officers – Paul Tobin and Richard Grannell. Incoming Vice Captain John Hudson received many congratulations on his appointment and incoming Captain Aidan O'Brien was wished all the best for the year ahead.

Adult membership remains the same at €85 per year with various lesser amounts payable for students, juveniles and those in active retirement.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Aidan O'Brien's drive in as Captain had to be postponed for one week and will now take place this Sunday March 8th at 2.30. This will be followed by the first competition of 2015 and the following Sunday sees the staging of the club's Scratch Cup when upwards of 100 players from across Ireland are expected to attend with valuable prizes on offer in different grades.

The club is open for membership or can be played with the payment of reasonable green fees, full details of these are available at the course and balls/clubs can be provided if necessary. The club has its own Facebook page, Stpatricks Pitchandputt. n

Slaney Olympic news Slaney olympic had a busy week, starting on Friday 27th February with the Wexford athletics awards night held in the Bailey in Enniscorthy.

Medals were handed out for athletes who won medals from last summer’s Track and Field, Cross Country and Road Events, another huge haul again, well done everybody.

Also, for the first time, the e v e n t w a s re c o rd e d a n d Catherine Walsh and Catherine Murphy were both interviewed and this will be televised shortly, we'll keep you posted when we know the dates. Any member who didn't collect their medals, they can be collected at the track on Tuesday night.

Wonder Woman, AKA Marie Chapman was running again this weekend, taking part in two marathons back to back. These were held down at the University of Limerick, these were Marie's 76th and 77th marathons to date and she also received her 75th MCI medal, another huge mile-

stone, congratulations Marie, a fantastic achievement.

The Ben 5K was held on Sunday 1st March in Wexford in wet, cold and miserable conditions, but the bad weather wasn't able to dampen or deter any of the 700 people who took part in the race.

First home for the club was Martina O Sullivan in 23.56 and first man was Eamon Saunders in 21.17. Also taking part from the club was Sabina Sweeney, Helena Browne, Mag Dunphy, Melanie O Leary, Denise Dixon Kinsella and Darren Shiggins. Well done everybody, great running in very bad conditions.

A large contingent of Slaney Olympians also took part in the St Patrick’s Special School 5K run around the town. Well done to everybody who took part for this great school.

A warm Slaney welcome to new club members Glenn Nolan, David Kehoe, Pat Rooney, Kate Doyle and Pam Kehoe. n

Slaney Motoring

www.slaneynews.com

caroline gets motoring opel corsa review

by Caroline Kidd

Sporty, stylish and smart – these are the new buzz words in small car design. it’s no longer acceptable for carmakers to roll out a new supermini that’s just dull to look at. if you want to compete in this highly competitive class, you need to sharpen the design lines and chisel those contours. that’s exactly what opel has done with the new corsa and i’m happy to report it can now definitely hold its own in fashionable company.

This is the fifth generation of Opel’s bestselling model, and while the new car doesn’t look radically different from its predecessor, all the body panels are new.

There’s a new wider, lower grille borrowed from the Adam city car, new headlamps, more sculpting along the sides of the car and new “3D effect” light clusters at the rear.

Altogether it’s a much smarter look for the new Corsa.

The revamp continues inside with a brand new interior. Opel has done a stellar job with the interior and it’s easily one of the best in the class. It’s simple without being boring, and glam without being over the top. The materials used all feel high quality and the cabin insulation is very good, with very little road and wind noise finding its way in.

This adds up to a relaxing drive. The car has a new chassis, new suspension and new steering. Opel has found a good balance between comfort and driver enjoyment. The Corsa feels very solid out on the road and it takes motorways in its

27

Every month Bunclody native caroline kidd brings you the best from the world of motoring, including car reviews, news and more. caroline loves writing about cars and she has been published in the Sunday Independent, Irish Country Magazine and online at wheelsforwomen.ie. you can follow her blog changing lanes at www.changinglanes.ie.

opel Corsa

auto rEpair Enniscorthy

stride. The handling and steering have been improved and the car does not disappoint in term of driver engagement.

A new 1.0 litre turbocharged petrol engine has been added to the Corsa range with two different power outputs, 90bhp and 115bhp. The availability is confined to the top level trims and so a Corsa fitted with this brand new engine commands a list price in the region of €19,395.

My car was powered by a 1.4 litre petrol engine brought forward from the previous model and producing 90bhp.

It never ran out of steam and it was easy to extract the power using the five speed manual gearbox. I averaged 48mpg over about 600kms of driving on a variety of roads, including a few motorway journeys going at full pelt.

On paper the smaller 1.0

litre turbocharged petrols are more economical and are quicker from 0-100kmh. They also have a nice raspy engine note that the 1.4 litre can’t match!

But the €16,495 list price for my test car in “Excite” trim is very tempting and feels like very good value for this car.

The spec includes Bluetooth for handsfree calls, cruise control, air con, fog lamps, alloy wheels and a long list of other standard equipment.

Opel has really raised its game with this Corsa and I think it can really compete now at the top of its class because it’s got a lot of good stuff going for it – it’s better looking, it’s got a great interior, there are a good choice of petrol and diesel engines, it’s spacious and it’s good to drive too. Maybe it’s time the Corsa got the attention it deserves.

Model Tested: Opel Corsa 1.4i Excite Price: €16,495 (Corsa range starts at €14,895) Engine: 1.4 litre four cylinder petrol Power: 90bhp 0-100km/h: 13.2 seconds Economy: 55.3mpg (5.1l/100km) CO2 Emissions: 119g/km Motor Tax: €200 per year. n

 nct preparation  repairs  timing Belts  clutches  General servicing  etc no job too big or too small ncrs, old Dublin road, enniscorthy (opposite Cooney Furlong / Gala)

tel: 086-8299431 – 053 9233033 – email: ncrallying@yahoo.ie

motor factors

fast fords

by Caroline Kidd

Fans of fast Fords can rejoice with the addition of two new performance models to the Focus range. the 250bhp Focus St goes on sale this month priced from €39,100. For the first time, Ford is also offering a diesel Focus St, no doubt inspired by volkswagen who offers gti and gtD versions of the golf.

The diesel Focus ST is about combining performance with the economy of a diesel and is down on power compared to the petrol ST with (just) 185bhp.

But for what it lacks in outright power, it makes up for in torque. The diesel ST has 400Nm compared to 360Nm in the full fat 250bhp version, so

clonhaston, enniscorthy

(Only 1 mile from Enniscorthy town centre on the Blackwater road)

Ford Focus ST

Open 6 Days a Week: Mon-Fri 9-6pm, Sat 9-5pm. Open through lunch every day.

suspension

it still manages to sprint to 100km/h from a standstill in a respectable 8.1 seconds, compared to 6.5 seconds in the petrol version.

The new ST won’t be mistaken for a normal Focus thanks to a mean-looking body kit,

double exhaust and roof spoiler.

For the brave, the ST can still be specced in Tangerine Scream and in what is mandatory for a hot hatch, an alarm is fitted as standard to stop someone from running off with your fast Ford. n

 Open to the Trade and Public  Huge range of New Parts in Stock  Quality Recycled Parts Available  Loads of Free Parking Spaces  Daily Deliveries throughout Co. Wexford Contact James and the team at: james@alcastgroup.ie

tel: 053-9239203 or 083-4588118

28

Slaney News

EnniScorthy EyE a column by Joseph Doyle

CyStIC FIBROSIS FASHION eVeNt

‘A Team’ manager, Enniscorthy’s John Leacy (far right), with team members in Malta. Pic: Claire Clifford, Irish Pool Association.

team ireland headed to malta 14th-21st of February for the European Pool championships to try and reclaim the title won in 2013.

Two junior teams headed over. The A team was John Leacy (Manager), Jordan Doyle (capt), Jordan Synnott, Michael Scally, Adam Maher, Ben Doyle and Barry Sinnott.

The B team was Pat O'Brien (manager), Morgan Thomas (capt), Tyler O'Connor, Robbie O'Neill, Evan Kavanagh, Cormac Kerr and Patrick Daly.

Nine players from the twelveman squads were from County Wexford which is an amazing achievement.

The tournament got off to a mixed start with the A team losing to the current champions and the B team with a massive win over host nation Malta.

As the tournament went on the A team won all their games to top the group, the B team also qualified for the semi-final with an amazing win over England.

Like last year, this left both A and B teams to play each other in the semi-final as the rule will not let two teams from one country compete in the final.

In a semi-final that was played in such an amazing and sporting manner, the A team narrowly won in a last frame decider 8-7.

On to a repeat of the 2014 final, Ireland played the amazingly talented England team.

The match and atmosphere was electric, Ireland was trailing 5-3 and needed something special to get them back in the match.

Ben Doyle kept his nerve to take out a brilliant finish and then the ever reliant Adam Maher made is 5-5. Two more super finishes from top tournament player Jordan Doyle and single finalist Jordan Synnott, put us 75 up and Michael scally wrapped up an amazing team victory with a brilliant clearance to reclaim the title.

The massive achievement was dedicated to the late Brandon 'BIG B' Walsh who made the team but sadly passed away in October. Brandon's waistcoat was brought to Malta as inspiration to the team.

The win was also dedicated to player Ben Doyle’s mate, Conor Byrne, who sadly lost his life in a tragic accident during the week of tournament. May they both Rest in peace.

Also a massive well done to Jordan Synnott who was a beaten in the final of the junior singles.

Next up is the World championships in July. A special thanks to all who have supported and sponsored the team, it's very much appreciated.

We are holding our Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, Co. Wexford Branch, event this year at the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on Tuesday 21st of April. It’s fashion with a difference as 4 boutiques in Enniscorthy take on each other in a competition where each shop will pick a customer to get a makeover plus a fashion show on the night.

Participating shops are Put A Bow On It, Mary Elizabeth’s, Unique, Sofia’s Choice. There will be a raffle

on the night with a great door prize.

During the interval local artists will perform including Myles Doyle (tenor), Sharon Sara Rooney, Maria Gordon, Sinead Haze, plus Jamie & Kerry. Tickets €5 on the door on the night or from Put A Bow On It, Mary Elizabeth’s, Unique, Sofia’s Choice and Stamp’s Pub. Or from Joe on 086-6074200.

More on this event in our April issue.

– Joseph Doyle

NeW BuSINeSSeS We in the Slaney News like to see new businesses come to town and do well. Recently three new shops opened their doors in Enniscorthy – O’Faolain ladies clothes shop has opened on Main Street, BNatural is a health shop that specialises in skin and hair care products and has opened on

Rafter Street, and the third is a curtain shop, Cottage to Castle Curtains, which has opened on Castle Hill. Well done to the proprietors of these shops, it’s great to see new shops in town taking over empty units and bringing them back to life.

Best of luck to all three.

– Joseph Doyle

European Pool Championships 2015 – Enniscorthy to the fore.

Left: Jordan Doyle, captain Ireland A Team with Rob Brady.

Right: Pat o’Brien, Manager Ireland B Team with Rob Brady.

Gaelscoil Open Night gaelscoil inis córthaidh held a very successful oíche oscailte (open night) on February 10th.

The school, which is situated at Drumgoold, Enniscorthy, has a limited number of places still available for Sept. 2015. The closing date for receipt of enrolment forms is Friday, March 27th.

Enquiries can be made to the school secretary by phone 053-9237422 or e-mail gaelscoilinis@gmail.com.

Bígí leo! n

4 March 2015

www.slaneynews.com

DAteS FOR yOuR DIARy Important date: Sunday 15th March is Mother’s Day so don't forget about your mother.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– Enniscorthy St Patrick’s Day Parade. 3pm. See page 12.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– Every Friday at Stamps – Irish night.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– Every Friday at Castle Bar – Karaoke.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– Joe Doyle’s pub on 17th March: Reilly’s Men. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– Slaney Search and Rescue Table Quiz, Holohans, Friday 6th of March.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– Wilson’s Bar: Live band every Saturday night. 20th March Viva all day, guest DJ plus Viva DJs. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– Rock ‘n’ Roll: The Bailey is the venue for the annual St Patrick’s rock ‘n’roll show (16th March) and dance featuring all the way from London, Johnny & The Jailbirds. Very special admission price of €10 for this great act in The Bailey with support from club DJs. –––––––––––––––––––––––––– Kids Disco with DJ

Moorhouse, Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre on Friday 20th March 7pm-9pm. Adm €5. Under 12’s, Primary School Kids & Younger, Party Games and Prizes for Best Dancer, Pass the P a rc e l a n d l o a d s m o re !

P a re n t a l s u p e r v i s i o n i s required (parents and under 3’s FREE). Music Bingo with DJ Moorhouse in Templeshannon Community & Childcare Centre on Saturday 21st March 8pm10pm. Books €5 (includes all games). What is it? Quite simply, bingo with music…

Replace traditional bingo numbers with 15-second clips of music. Replace the numbers on the bingo card with the name of an artist and song.

When you hear a song that’s on your card, mark it off. It’s that simple. Prizes are won for one, two and three lines, and finally the Grand Prize: The Full House!

–––––––––––––––––––––––––– Enniscorthy Musical Society’s upcoming “The Wizard Of Oz” in Colaiste Bride, Enniscorthy, Tues 7th April to Sat 11th April.

– Joseph Doyle

CONgRAtulAtIONS  Congratulations to Oulart the Ballagh on winning the All-Ireland club camogie title in Croke Park on Sunday March 1st against Mullagh of Galway.  Well done to the Irish rugby team on their recent victory over England in fine style.  Congrats to Team Ireland on winning the European

Pool Championships.  Well done to Chelsea on winning the Capital One Cup beating Spurs 2-0 at Wembley.  Please note that due to space restriction we cannot bring you the birthday list this month but happy birthday to anyone who is celebrating this month.

– Joseph Doyle

If you would like Joseph to mention an upcoming event or a birthday, anniversary, etc, then please email both doyleduffry@gmail.com and slaneynews@gmail.com.

Emailing both these addresses maximises the chances of your notice being included. The closing date for receiving material for this column is always the Thursday before our publication date which is the first Wednesday of every month. Our website (www.slaneynews.com) carries our publication dates for 2015.

st. aiDan’s catHeDraL pastoraL counciL & ferns c.a.f.e.

Present the remainder of a series of

Lenten taLKs

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

‘contemporary expressions of fasting’ sr. Bernadette purcell thurs 5th march 7.30pm ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ‘aspects & stories of faith & prayer’ fr. Joe White Wed 11th march 7.30pm ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– riverside park Hotel, enniscorthy All WELCOME Students preparing for the Gaelscoil open Night.

Adam Nolan.

Slaney Wexford Scene

www.slaneynews.com

29

Pics Around Town by Patrick Hogan

‘Keys’ – a solo photographic exhibition by Caolan Barron in Wexford Arts Centre with Natalja Nars Murphy, Tez Moran and Enya Barron.

Pic: Patrick Hogan.

Caolan Barron in Wexford Arts Centre with Paula Cox. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

L-R: Jim Campbell, Kay Campbell, Angela Godfrey-Goldstein, Dermot Campbell at Jim’s photographic exhibition in Wexford Arts Centre. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

Brigitte McLaughlin, Wexford Credit Union, with Tara o’Brien and Kelly Jane Power, Shella Grace Dance Company, at Wexford Town St. Patrick's Day Parade press launch 2015.

Pic: Patrick Hogan.

Former and current employees of Drover Foods, Wexford, at a recent get-together. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

Innovative Wexford select Innovate

Above left: Innovate CEo Jim Hughes launches Innovate Wexford Park. Above right: Chairman of Wexford Supporters Club Arthur Quinn with Secretary Tom Boland and Ben Bernie of Club Wexford. Pic: Maria Nolan.

innovate Business technology limited (innovate) has been appointed the official it partner of Wexford gaa. the welcome announcement was made by the chairman of county Board Diarmuid Devereux to a large gathering at the amber Springs hotel on thursday evening 26th February.

Diarmuid expressed his sincere thanks to Jim Hughes and Innovate and looked forward to a long and prosperous partnership with them. He complimented the wonderful work they are doing in Wexford and beyond and paid tribute to them saying that it was gratifying to have the name of a local company on ‘the Park’

and thanked them for their support of and interest in Wexford GAA. Management Our Committee is confident that this joint venture will result in significant further development of our use of all forms of information technology to promote Gaelic games within the county and will also open up employment opportunities for our young players, especially t h o s e w h o a re s t u d y i n g Computer Science and Business.

Mr. Devereux went on to thank Tom Doyle and Club Wexford who were instrumental in securing the sponsorship and said that henceforth it

would be known as Innovate Wexford Park.

“The GAA since its foundation has been the cornerstone of Irish communities and has promoted all that is positive in local talent and ability.

In the same way Innovate, from its grass roots in Wexford, has developed into a leading IT business providing network, Cloud and IT infrastructure services to businesses on a national basis” said Jim Hughes who is as passionate about his company as he is about GAA. A former county and club player with his home club of Buffers Alley, Jim went on to say, “At Innovate, we know the importance of having a

great collective team spirit, a spirit which has seen us as an organisation grow through investment in talent, the development of our people and a focus on our customers. We will continue to drive this national and international growth through job creation, customer loyalty and new business acquisition.”

The Innovate Chief Executive went on to thank all for attending, particularly the county players who had to be back for training at 7.30pm sharp. “Innovate” he said “operates on the same disciplines as county teams to ensure success” and he had no doubt that this new col-

laboration would prove to be a winning combination.

“Wexford GAA is on the cusp of once again becoming a leading light and we at Innovate are delighted to be a part of that team effort to help further the county’s ambitions for future success. As a proud supporter and former underage Wexford player I believe this is the perfect partnership for our company.”

The sponsorship deal includes the renaming of the m a i n c o u n t y g ro u n d a s `Innovate Wexford Park` for a minimum period of 4 years.

– Maria Nolan

Maria Nolan, PRo of Wexford Supporters Club, with Chairman of Club Wexford Tom Doyle.

Operation Transportation Wexford Bus has introduced “Operation Transportation” to the people of Wexford.

The recently revised We x f o rd B u s C o n n e c t Service is offering excellent low fares all over Wexford town and is an efficient and sustainable alternative to driving and parking. With Leap Cards, adults can travel across town on the bus for only €1.80 per journey and children for only 90 cent.

Wexford Bus has developed and refined the routes, schedules and fares with workers, school goers and shoppers in mind. Services operate every 30 minutes from 07.15 between Clonard, the town centre, Whiterock and Drinagh and weekly tickets are available for regular passengers – unlimited travel within the town for only €7.50 for children or €15 for adults with a Leap Card.

Wexford Bus is challenging the people of Wexford to leave their cars at home and switch to the bus for great savings. For more details see www.wexfordbus.com n

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Slaney Arts

4 March 2015

Members of FoCAL – Anne Gilpin, Jarlath Glynn and Maria Nolan with Christy Kenneally at Christy’s talk in Enniscorthy Library last month.

author, novelist, poet and public speaker christy kenneally gave an excellent lecture in Enniscorthy library last month and displayed his wonderful cork wit and wisdom to an audience of over forty people.

Quoting from ‘Say Yes to Life’, a book co-authored with clinical psychologist and psyc h o t h e r a p i s t , D r. L i n d a Finnegan, who just happens to be Christy’s wife, is a positive and amusing guideline on how to cope with what life can throw at us. As Christy said it is not what happens in our lives that makes the difference but rather how we react to and cope with what happens.

Christy Kenneally spoke about how hard it is to be real, in terms of our feelings. When we do share our true feelings, particularly surrounding situations of sickness or loss, others are tempted to console us

or to reduce our feelings by comparison rather than to accept and allow those feelings. As Christy put it “We have the gift of reducing other people’s pain to a size that we can handle”.

‘Self’ is a word that has been traditionally unwelcome in Ireland. Usually, it arrives with the tag ‘-ish’, or reductive words like effacing, denial etc. The one who speaks of self is often accused of being selfcentred, boastful or ‘having notions about themselves.’

Traditionally, we have been encouraged to talk ourselves down; to be suspicious of compliments and to deny our gifts.

Tragically, this often means we talk ourselves down and out of possibilities for growth when according to the affable Cork man all we really have to fear is our giftedness.

Christy spoke about the work of worry and how antic-

Going for gold at “Art Olympics” a piece of sculpture created overnight from forty-eight bricks at the corish roundabout, Wexford town, in 2008 is an inspiration for ireland’s public art presentation at the venice Biennale art exhibition in 2015.

Kerry-born artist, Sean Lynch’s piece, “Adventure: C a p i t a l ” , i s i n s p i re d b y Wexford’s unknown sculptor.

A very temporary installation on the Corish Roundabout in 2008 was created, when someone without authorisation took the bricks up and stacked them in a tower shape. The next morning the bricks were photographed and a newspaper article featured in the Wexford People and the Irish Mirror later that week. “I don’t know who moved the bricks”, said Lynch, “ but I am keen to meet anyone with information”.

Now they will contribute to a sculpture and multi-media installation by Lynch, as part of Ireland’s contribution to the global show. The Venice Biennale art exhibition is considered one

of the most prestigious in the world, the only such exhibition in which Nation States present, and represent themselves through an art project. Eightyeight countries took part in 2013.

Run every second year since 1895, the 2015 show will be seen by over 450,000 people from May to November in the Arsenale in Venice.

“This involvement is important for County Wexford”, said County Council Director of Service, John Carley. “Wexford’s international reputation for Opera should be extended to other art forms and exposure at exhibitions of the stature of the Venice Biennale further builds the county’s brand as a centre of excellence for the arts and as a good place to live and work. We wish Sean Lynch well in Venice and hope he will bring back the Golden Lion Award for Wexford and for Ireland”.

See www.seanlynchinfo.com for details about his artworks.

Ireland at the Biennale, see: www.irelandvenice.ie n

ipation of a stressful event can actually spur us to do something positive about it. Worry, left to its own devices, often devolves into anxiety which chokes our ability to live satisfying lives. Among our many resources is our resilience; our ability to bend and adapt to pressure and develop the muscle that ensures we bend and do not break. We are the great survivors, Christy claimed. By definition, a survivor is someone who ‘lives above’. This doesn’t mean we are out of touch with our reality but that we are not defined or limited by it. There is more to all of us than our ailments or losses.

In our most difficult times, we need to take stock of the rich resources within ourselves. All of us have endured and overcome difficulties in our lives and, hopefully, have developed a strength of character that equips us to deal with difficulties yet

Say Yes to Life and Push Out the Boat to be faced. We have the power to communicate our feelings to others and challenge them to help us face and feel the reality of our trouble and we have huge resources in friends, families and the wider community if we make the effort to step out of our comfort zones and engage with them.

Christy went on to encourage all present to be themselves saying, “Be yourself, everyone else is taken, and be sure to say Yes to the things that frighten you a little because if we don’t challenge ourselves we are not continuing to grow and develop.”

He also told people to be careful with children and how we deal with them and their achievements advising, “Always compliment the work and not the achievement”. In the surrounds of Enniscorthy Library he said it would be remiss of him not to mention

Enniscorthy Library mar 05 HeLLo Brain 2:00pm Stay alert, involved and sharp! Come along and meet respected scientist Iseult Cremen who will talk to you about keeping your brain healthy.

Hello Brain focuses specifically on brain health and brain research. mar 05 a poem for ireLanD 7:00pm On March 5th at 7.00pm Enniscorthy Library is the venue for an evening of poetry and discussion of the 10 shortlisted poems in the A Poem for Ireland Project. Local writers have been invited to read one of the poems and speak in its favour and this will be followed by an open discussion of all the poems. Hopefully by the end of the evening we will reach agreement on what we think is the Poem for Ireland. mar 12 HaunteD WexforD 7:00pm Author of 'Haunted Wexford', Michael Benson will explore the darker side of Wexford’s noted historic locations. mar 21 story time for unDer 7's 11:00am Join Ann Marie for a morning of fun and story telling for under 7's at Enniscorthy Library. All are welcome. Please note all children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. mar 26 transform oLD furniture 7:00pm A beginner’s workshop on how to use Chalk paint with Anne Marie Plummer. The class will cover how to prepare a piece of furniture for chalk painting and also some of the many techniques that can be used on the upcycled furniture such as decoupaging, stenciling, dry brushing and finishing products. On the night we will take a piece of furniture and go through all the stages required to transform it into a truly unique piece. Chalk paint is very easy to use, so don’t feel you have to be artistic or have any other talents to be able to transform your home !!!

Sky scholarships Sky is running an arts bursary fund that any young artist can apply to for assistance.

But hurry, the closing date is this thursday 5th march.

Check out the website: http://www.sky.com/academy/arts_scholarships?DCMP =tva-skycom:na_arts_scholarships n

Christy Kenneally with Donal Cullen.

Pic: Maria Nolan.

books and reading quoting, “The man who teaches a child to read gives him an extra arm.”

“Books”, Christy enthused, “are your ticket to space flight”.

Christy Kenneally is the kind of man that you could listen to forever with a lovely lilt to his voice and an amusing way of putting things and no-one was in a hurry to leave as the evening drew to a close with

almost all of the gathering queuing to purchase `Say Yes To Life` and have it inscribed by the author himself.

Well done once again to Librarian Jarlath Glynn and Enniscorthy Library for hosting yet another most interesting and enjoyable event and for leaving us looking forward to the next one!

– Maria Nolan

celebrate Women!

“Celebrate Women!” is the theme for the Poetry at Cafe Fusion reading on Friday 6th March at 7.30pm. This is a particularly appropriate theme as we head into International Women's day on 8th March and Mothers' Day on 15th March. All poets and readers are welcome to present poems that celebrate women in all their glory and in their ordinariness, in their struggles and in their joys, in their loves, hates and sorrows, and in their victories and their challenges. The evening starts at 7.30pm in Cafe Fusion on Monck Street where you will receive a warm welcome and for the first half hour you can mingle and chat before settling down to the serious business of the evening at 8.00pm when the readings begin under the guidance of MC Denis Collins. And as always you can avail of the very best tea and coffee from the ever genial host Gerrie North. All poets, readers and listeners are welcome!

Book Trailer Competition Focal, Wexford’s literary festival, in conjunction with Strawberry Films and Byrnes Bookstores, has announced a new, exciting competition which aims to get students in every national and secondary school in Wexford reaching for a book to read and then depicting its story and characters by developing their own unique book trailer.

Commenting on the launch of the competition, the Chairperson of Focal, Jarlath Glynn said that “One of the aims of FOCAL is to increase the interest in literature and reading in County Wexford.

This exciting and innovative competition will achieve this by giving students an opportunity to shape and visualise what they have read and depict it in a book trailer.”

The competition is open to students in any national or secondary school in Wexford.

Entries will be accepted in three age categories; 10 - 12 years old, 13 - 15 years old and 16 18 years old. The prize in each category is a trophy plus €250

of books from Byrnes Bookstore for each winning school.

John Donohue, CEO, Strawberry Films, commented that “Ireland has a very vibrant and growing film industry and this competition has the capacity to introduce students to all aspects of film-making. The development of a book trailer can be a vehicle for students to harness their imagination, creativity and technical skills.”

Damian Byrne, Managing Director, Byrnes Bookstore, stated that “we are delighted to be sponsoring this unique initiative and working with Focal to increase the interest and participation in reading by students in Wexford”. n

Slaney Arts

www.slaneynews.com

Enniscorthy company sponsors Wexford Festival Opera Datapac, headquartered in Enniscorthy, has announced that it has renewed its sponsorship deal with Wexford Festival trust valued at €75,000 over three years.

As the Festival’s exclusive IT and telecommunications partner since 2008, Datapac is upgrading existing IT infrastructures and delivering additional new technologies to support the planned growth of both the Festival and House.

The Wexford Festival Trust produces the annual worldrenowned and critically acclaimed Wexford Festival Opera. Founded in 1951, the Festival is one of Ireland’s longest established and most recognised arts and cultural events. Its upcoming festival will take place from October 21st to November 1st in We x f o r d O p e r a H o u s e , recently officially recognised as Ireland’s National Opera H o u s e . Ti c k e t s a l e s a re expected to be well in excess of 20,000.

In addition to the critically acclaimed festival, the National Opera House also hosts a year-round programme of live performances including opera, theatre, comedy, music and family events.

David McLoughlin, Chief Executive, Wexford Festival Trust, with Karen o’Connor, General Manager Service Delivery, Datapac.

As Ireland’s National Opera House, Wexford Opera House is recognised as one of the leading opera houses internationally. To ensure it could provide its staff, performers, patrons and guests with a world-class service at all times, Datapac was asked to review and upgrade the entire IT and telecoms infrastructure of the Opera House. The new solution includes an upgraded unified communications system which allows staff and clients to communicate effectively from multiple device

and locations. It also encompasses an upgrade of all software and hardware including point-of-sale technologies which enables the House and Festival organisers to easily manage growing levels of bookings. In addition, Datapac has implemented a new IT security solution to ensure complete protection for all users at all times, and it provides proactive managed support of the entire infrastructure from its Network Operations Centre in Enniscorthy.

David McLoughlin, Chief

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

Executive, Wexford Festival Trust, commented, “We’re thrilled to renew our longrunning partnership with Datapac and to continue to receive such a high-quality technology infrastructure and service. Datapac provides us with a fantastic platform which underpins our ambitious growth plans, including a launch of more sophisticated sales and marketing initiatives which aim to boost Festival and House attendance numbers even further.We’ve a long and successful partnership in place with Datapac and it’s great to have a local technology partner that supports us every step of the way.”

Karen O’Connor, General Manager Service Delivery, D a t a p a c , s a i d , “ We ’ r e delighted to be reconfirmed as the exclusive technology partner for Wexford Festival Trust for the next three years.

It’s a hugely exciting time as both the Festival and Opera House continue to set new heights in terms of facilities, tickets sales, productions and nurturing talent. We’re pleased that our investment in technologies and managed services will play a big part in their ongoing success.” n

Supporting the Arts in Co. Wexford Wexford Arts Centre: 053-9123764.

The Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy: 053-9233000.

New Slaney Writing…

Picturesque Enniscorthy sits handsomely beside the river Slaney shimmering silently down to the sea. From the days of slavery, through adversity and recessions alike we have struggled stanchly to create a convivial, cordial and decent little town, the residents never afraid to offer a helping hand to an elderly person or a young mother alike. For one I am proud to live here and I am glad I was accepted by the good people to share in their accomplishments. The following piece of poetry concerns the unfortunate other side of the coin, that of adult bullying, the side we all loath. Inis Córthaidh Abú.

– Martin Joseph Byrne

thE normal chilD

by Martin Joseph Byrne Class clowns Character assassins Attention seekers All just estranged fans n

lÁ ‘le BRIDe

my FathEr’S houSE

by Mary Cotter, 31st Jan 2015

by Donal Cullen

They have ploughed a river field At Ballycarney Bridge.

Last day of January And already someone is feeling The rise of Spring.

It can’t be the weather Hovering around 2 degrees at night.

Or the wind cutting by any hill.

Across the road They are burning twigs Branches even, Getting ready to plough that field as well.

The brown earth waits Damp, dewy and still Hearing the river dance over stones And the wind in the church trees.

Like a runner on the blocks The earth counts down Calling for seed and rain. n

My father’s house has many rooms Full of life and many brooms My father’s house with many rooms Shall pass it on to many grooms.

My father’s house has many rooms Day by day and night time looms, In each and every room there stands A broom, son clean your room.

Put your coat on the hallstand Stop playing in that band.

In the house of many rooms. n Donal Cullen performed with the St Aidan’s Cathedral Folk Group during their recent appearance on RTE television.

31

Courthouse Arts Centre highlights c o u rt h o u S E a rt S c E n t r E , t i n a h E ly, march EvEntS: Thurs 5, Film, Ida, 8pm, €6/€5.

Sat 14, Comedy, PJ Gallagher, 8:30pm, €20/€18.

Fri 20, Concert, Woody Pines, 7:30pm, €14/€12.

Sun 22, Exhibition, Cecil King, 4-6pm, Free.

Fri 27, Music/Spoken Word Café, 9pm, €6/€5.

Sat 28, Literary Weekend Yeats and His Long Legacy, 11-4pm, €6/€5.

Sat 28, Theatre, Donal O’Kelly/Katie O’Kelly, 8:30pm, €14/€12.

Sun 29, Literary Weekend Book Launch - Happen by Hugh Maxton, 4-6pm, Free.

Artist Fran Greene in Fusion Cafe, Wexford. Pic: Patrick Hogan.

Tate Guerin Gallery…

The "Fusion" exhibition at Tate Guerin Gallery at Wells House, Ballyedmond, Gorey, continues until March 22nd.

"Fusion" is a collection of paintings by Wexford-born, London-based fine artist Martina Furlong. n

Wexford Opera success Silent night by american composer kevin Puts, last year’s critically acclaimed opera set against the backdrop of WWi, proved to be both the people’s and the judges’ favourite at the irish times irish theatre awards, as the Wexford production was awarded two accolades, including Best opera Production and the inaugural an Post irish Stamps audience choice Prize, in a gala ceremony at the national concert hall, Dublin on 22nd February.

This brings the total of ten wins for Wexford Festival since the awards were founded in 1997 and the first time audiences were given a say in what they thought was the ‘Best Irish theatre production’ of 2014.

Artistic Director of Wexford Festival Opera, David Agler accepted the award on behalf of conductor, Michael Christie and director, Tomer Zvulun.

Speaking to Ireland’s opera and theatre community, David

said, “I wish to thank the Irish Times for their dedicated support for the arts and, in particular, for opera. Opera is merely theatre on an epic scale and Wexford is extremely grateful to have this recognised by opera’s inclusion in these prestigious awards.”

Meanwhile, the organisation has its sights set on the forthcoming Festival as priority booking for Friends of Wexford Festival Opera opened on Saturday, 28 February.

To avail of one month’s priority booking and to ensure the best selection of tickets, plus many other benefits, become a Friend of Wexford Festival Opera - visit www.wexfordopera.com/frien ds/.

General Booking opens on Saturday, 28 March. The 64th Wexford Festival Opera runs from Wednesday, 21 October to Sunday, 1 November, 2015.

The 64th Wexford Festival Opera is grant-aided by the Arts Council, Fáilte Ireland and Wexford County Council.

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Slaney News

4 March 2015

Dragon Sportive 2015 launched

Bernie Whelan, David Murphy and Angela Devitt, enjoying the launch of the 2015 Dragon Sportive.

on Wednesday 18th February the 2015 edition of the very popular Dragon Sportive was launched in the Skoda outlet, Quarrypark, Enniscorthy.

The Dragon Sportive is a cycle challange starting and finishing in Enniscorthy and consisting of two events – a 75km cycle and a 130km cycle.

Sign-on will be at Pettitts Carpark, Enniscorthy, on Sunday morning, 21st June, from 7.30am to 8.30am after which you will receive your specially commisioned back pack. You will also receive your map and route details with contact numbers.

The event will start at 9.00am s h a r p f ro m t h e D u ff r y, Enniscorthy, near the sign-on point.

Helmets must be worn and all bikes must be in roadworthy condition. The roads will not be closed so all riders must obey the rules of the road. Service vehicles will be available on the day. Riders must be 18 years of age or over.

St Vincent de Paul is the associated charity with this wonderful event so all money raised goes to a good cause.

The Riverside Park Hotel has generously come on board as a new sponsor of the event and Skoda and the Wexford People are also kindly involved again this year.

We will carry regular updates in upcoming issues and also keep an eye on www.facebook.com/TheDragonSportive

Easter in Enniscorthy…

Easter monday ceremonies: Commemorating all who died for Irish Freedom. Organised by Enniscorthy Municipal District. More details in next month’s issue.

Easter Egg hunt - Enniscorthy castle: Solve the clues and open the treasure chest using the secret code (available each day). €3 per child. From Sunday 29th March to Easter Sunday 5th April. guided tours of Enniscorthy castle: 2.00pm each day for Easter period. Self guided tours available throughout the day. Group tours (+8 people) also available at other times, please book at 053-9234699. guided 1916 Easter rising trail: Follow the events of Easter Week in Enniscorthy when Irish Volunteers captured the town. Meet for a guided trail of key locations at Enniscorthy Castle at 1pm on Sat 4th and Sunday 5th April. Please note that this tour includes some challenging walking on hills and in traffic so is not suitable for young children. n

grants available…

Local Councillor James Browne is reminding people that Wexford County Council Amenity Grants application forms are now available from the council offices in the Market Square. Closing date is 20th of March. These grants are for voluntary organisations to help social inclusion and can include community, art, cultural or sporting projects.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Minister Paul Kehoe TD is reminding community groups and organisations that the application form for the 2015 National Lottery Health grants is now live on the Department of Health’s website. “These grants are aimed at community groups and voluntary organisations providing health, support or information services to groups such as people with an intellectual or physical disability. It is also open to organisations which have specific health-related interests.

“The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 1st of May 2015. I would urge health focused community groups and voluntary organisations in Co. Wexford to consider applying.” n

Milehouse Road, Enniscorthy. Tel (053) 9236969. E-mail furthereducation@evc.ie

Enniscorthy Vocational College of Further Education

m p 8 – 6 th 1 1 h c r a m s d E opEn night: W post LEaving cErt/ FurthEr Education programmE For 2015/2016

scHooL of Business tecHnoLoGy: Business Studies – Fetac Level 5 Office Administration – Fetac Level 5 scHooL of earLy cHiLDHooD eDucation: Early Childhood Care & Education – Fetac Level 5 Early Childhood Care & Education – Fetac Level 6 Community Care (SNA) – Fetac Level 5

scHooL of Humanities: Tourism with Business – Fetac Level 5 Travel Industry Studies – Fetac Level 5, IAOT Legal Studies – Fetac Level 5 Sport, Recreation & Exercise – Fetac Level 5 scHooL of science & tecHnoLoGy: Physiology & Health Science – Fetac Level 5 Pre Third Level Science – Fetac Level 5 Engineering Technology – Fetac Level 5 scHooL of cosmetic science: Beauty Therapy – CIBTAC, ITEC & CIDESCO Hairdressing – Fetac Level 5, City & Guilds

scHooL of performinG arts: Performing Arts – Music – Fetac Level 5 Media Production – Fetac Level 5 scHooL of nursinG: Nursing Studies – Fetac Level 5 Healthcare Support – Fetac Level 5

all courses are open to post Leaving certificate, over 18’s and mature students (those over 23).

ALL COURSES QUALIFY FOR MEANS TESTED MAINTENANCE GRANTS. for applications and information please phone (053) 9236969 or e-mail: furthereducation@evc.ie.

Prospective students can apply online at www.evc.ie by going into Further Education link.

Why not come along and meet our Course Directors to discuss your options?