ROSSLARE HABOUR RNLI all-weather lifeboat at sea. (Pic;. RNLI/Nigel Millard)
By Dan Walsh
At 12:10 pm on Monday, the Rosslare Harbour RNLI lifeboat crew were called by the Coast Guard to an incident two miles northeast of the Fundale Buoy off Carnsore Point.
Weather conditions at the time were good with a light wind and good visibility.
When the volunteer crew reached the scene they were informed by the crew that their outboard motor on their 24ft yacht had failed.
Having assessed the situation and given that the yacht could not make any safe onward progress, in consultation with the yacht crew, it was decided to attach a line and tow the vessel to the safety of the lifeboat pen in Rosslare Port.
The lifeboat and yacht arrived safely at 3pm.
Speaking following the call out, Rosslare Harbour RNLI Coxswain Keith Miller, stressed the importance of sailors having the necessary communications equipment onboard and wearing the proper safety equipment.
Minister James Browne and Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, were in Enniscorthy this evening for the opening of the AIB Press Photographer of the Year Exhibition in conjunction with the official launch of the 2026 Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival in Enniscorthy Castle. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Castle
The AIB sponsored Press Photographer of the Year Exhibition has been officially opened by the Minister for Housing, Heritage and Local Government, James Browne TD in conjunction with the official launch of the 2026 Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival in Enniscorthy Castle this evening.
The attendance included Senator Cathal Byrne, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy and Cllrs Aidan Browne, Pat Kehoe, Trish Byrne and Jackser Owens, Chief Executive Wexford County Council Eddie Taaffe, Claire Lawless, District Manager, Enniscorthy Municipal District Council and award-winning photographer James Crombie.
Minister Browne recalled photographs from the old Strawberry Fair years ago and remarked “that’s what photography is all about, catching those moments and how we remember all those people as we go back. It’s absolutely fantastic.”
The AIB Photographer of the Year is celebrating its 48th year, celebrating all that is good about photography.
“The exhibition features all the winning and short-listed images covering events at home and abroad in 2025 and highlights dedication and skill.
“The exhibition features over 100 prints from all walks of life; news, sport, arts and entertainment and they are really an archive and I would encourage people to come into the castle and admire them.
“The exhibition is part of the Enniscorthy Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival weekend, and it gives me great pleasure to officially launch everything this evening,” concluded Minister Browne who also added congratulations to volunteers and sponsors, the outdoor workers from the Council, the Gardaí and all who contribute to the staging of the festival.
Colin Hunt, Chief Executive Officer said; “AIB is proud to once again sponsor the Press Photographer of the Year Award 2025 and added that 2025 was another exceptional year for press photography in Ireland and this year’s entries show the humanity of our world around us.”
CHRIST CHURCH, GOREY, is the venue for a fundraising Community Concert on Sunday, May 3rd at 6pm. Tickets available. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh
The organisers are particularly excited about The Gorey May Bush Féile 2026 Community Concert in Christ Church Gorey this year and are especially calling on the community to come out and support the evening.
This much-loved intergenerational community event will once again bring together local musicians, singers, and performers for an evening of traditional music, song, and poetry on Sunday May 3rd at 6pm as we welcome in Summer i Loch Garman.
Community Concert lineup for 2026 features Templemichael Ceilí Band, TJ Morrissey – Ceoltóir Óg 2026, Wexford Folk Orchestra and Éire agus Cú Chulainn.
The Community Concert has an extra special purpose this year. Usually, the concert is a free event but they’ve decided to host it as an important fundraiser in support of essential repair works to Christ Church.
The Gorey May Bush Féile and indeed many other community groups in North Wexford have had the pleasure of hosting concerts in this beautiful space and this is their way of giving back in a small way.
By purchasing tickets which are €10, the community will not only enjoy a rich celebration of local culture and talent but will also be contributing directly to preserving this historic and much-valued building for future generations.
We all get to play our part in that! Please support this important cause and be part of a meaningful night where tradition and community come together i Mí na Bealtaine!
Sinn Féin TD for North Wexford/South Wicklow Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin has welcomed the National Broadband Plan in the Hollyfort and wider area and into south Wicklow.
Speaking to WexfordLocal.com, Teachta Ó Súilleabháin said; “It is very welcome that 947 Wicklow homes and businesses across the border near Hollyfort can now connect to fibre broadband on the NBI network. This includes 465 premises in rural areas surrounding Carnew including Coolboy and Coolattin, and further 482 premises in south Arklow.
TEACHTA FIONNTÁN Ó SÚILLEABHÁINN
In other North Wexford news, Teachta Ó Súilleabháin told WexfordLocal.com; “I am delighted that progress has been made on plans for a long-awaited Primary Care Centre for Gorey and North Wexford. We had submitted various Parliamentary Questions as well as engaging with local GPs and I also addressed the Minister as recently as February outlining the GP crisis in North Wexford.
Our most recent communications from the HSE was to inform us that “Stage 2 of the tender process was advertised on the E Tenders Procurement Platform in Q4 2025 and the tender returns are currently being evaluated and finalised.”
“I am increasingly seeing people attend my office who simply cannot get a GP in their area. One individual recently told me they searched within a 20km radius and still could not find a GP accepting new patients. This person has a medical condition requiring routine blood tests — and without a GP, they cannot access this essential care. Wexford General Hospital agreed to carry out the blood tests, but this is only a short‑term solution and not sustainable. “I was also informed that one GP practice in the area now has a waiting list of 200 people looking for a GP. This is just incredible and completely unacceptable. This system needs to change. Access to a GP is a basic necessity. With a growing population, the Minister for Health must urgently address this escalating crisis.”
Teachta Ó Súilleabháin added that he has contacted the Minister for Health regarding this ongoing issue and is awaiting a response.
A man in his early fifties has died as a result of an incident involving a mountain bike on the Askamore Hill Trails in North Wexford on Sunday.
The incident happened around mid-day, and emergency services were called to the scene.
The man has been named locally as John Byrne “Island Manor” Island Middle, Craanford, Gorey, Co. Wexford and formerly of St. Moling’s Terrace, Camolin (Owner of J.B.C.C. Company).
The Health & Safety Authority is investigating the incident.
DENIS MURPHY and SHANE COTTER shared a double today and Murphy excelled training five weekend point-to-point winners. Cotter rode in the last big feature race of the season – the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown on Saturday. (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh
What a remarkable weekend for handler Denis Murphy and rider Jack Hendrick who triumphed five and four times, respectively. Add a treble for Sean Doyle and doubles for Benny Walsh, Jamie Scallan and Barry Stone… it doesn’t get much better on the point-to-point season.
Murphy and Hendrick were in Lisronagh today (Sunday) and shared a double at the Tipperary track; newcomer Ilians Way winning division one of the maiden race for four-year-olds by six lengths followed by a four lengths success with another newcomer Walkonseas in division two of the gelding’s four-year-old maiden race.
Hendrick’s treble at Lisronagh came on Lastbutnotleased for Robert Tector’s Coolbawn, Rathnure stables in division two of the maiden race for five-year-old geldings by 10 lengths.
On Saturday at Ballysteen, Co. Cork, Murphy and Hendrick combined to win the Winner of Two race with Kiwi De Cotte beating Theatrical Getaway (Colin Bowe/Bertie Finn) by a head.
Also at Lisronagh Benny Walsh and Barry Stone shared double success winning division two of the maiden race for four-year-olds with Sarahs Lawn by four lengths and Northern Singer scored by 16 lengths in the five- and six-year-olds mares maiden race.
Denis Murphy saddled a double at Fairyhouse on Sunday with Molten Blue by two lengths in the second division of the maiden race for four-year-old geldings and Johnjoes Lad by five lengths in division one of the maiden race for five-year-old geldings. Both were ridden by Shane Cotter.
Sean Doyle recorded a Sunday afternoon treble beginning with Beatonthestreet under Darragh Higgins by four lengths in the first division of the maiden race for four-year-old geldings.
Two more followed at Dromahane, Co. Cork. Prime Contender scored by two and a half lengths in division two of the maiden race for four-year-olds and Lines Crossed won division one of the five-and six-year-old geldings maiden race. Both were ridden by Jamie Scallan.
Rob James trained and rode newcomer Star Affinity who was a four and a half lengths winner in division one of the maiden race for four-year-olds.
Also at Dromahane, Anthony John Black from Ballinapark, Bunclody, saddled Scintillo who had a ten lengths victory under John Barry in the mares’ maiden race for five-year-olds plus.
Eamonn Doyle saddled Santa Wave (Aidan Harney) who had a five lengths victory in division one of the maiden race for five-year-old geldings at Ballysteen on Saturday.
JAMES MURRAY rode a winner in Wales. (File Pic; WexfiordLocal.com)
20 years old James Murray from Ferns enjoyed his first victory on British soil when winning on Tenthousandreasons in the opening maiden at the Wales Area Club point-to-point meeting at Lower Machen last Sunday.
Murray had three rides on the card and said the opportunity to ride in Britain came about through fellow Irishman Peter Croke, head lad to Mickey Bowen, with Murray travelling over to the Pembrokeshire yard for a short spell which quickly led to race opportunities.
“I just went over for a few days after Peter suggested that I come over to ride out for a few days. I got the ride through them, and it worked out well,” said James who rides out for Sue O’Gorman at Adamstown and Mick Goff at Clondaw, Ferns, and has enjoyed success between the flags, with six career point-to-point winners to his name on the home circuit.
By Dan Walsh at Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council meeting
As temperatures increase, an extended period of dry weather is predicted, and the upcoming Bank Holiday prompts consideration of beach visits for the first time this year.
At last Tuesday’s meeting of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council, members stressed the importance of visitors behaving responsibly and keeping the coastline clean.
Cllr Nicky Boland noted during the meeting that Courtown is gearing up for the summer season, and repairs to the damaged boardwalk are currently underway.
The Council was urged to add more bin collections during the summer months, especially during Bank Holidays.
CLLR MARY FARRELL
Cllr Anthony Donohoe argued for a public campaign urging people to take their waste home on leaving. And he noted that visitors were bringing household rubbish to the bins and clogging them up.
Cllr Mary Farrell requested more bins at the beach, noting that day trippers—not campers or motorhomes—were responsible for littering.
Cllr Farrell raised concerns about beach barbeques, noting that ash remnants are often buried under sand, which may result in children burning their feet.
CLLR JOHN DWYER, Cathaoirleach New Ross Municipal District Council addressing the Duncannon Fort reopening ceremony in brilliant sunshine this afternoon. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh at Duncannon Fort
Minister for Rural Community Development and the Gaeltacht and Minister for Social Protection, Dara Calleary TD today (Thursday) performed the reopening of the first phase of redevelopment under the Duncannon Fort Masterplan, bringing three of its of its historic buildings back to life.
Closed to the public for health and safety reasons in 2015 funding of €500,000 from the Department of Rural Community Development matched by €250,000 from Wexford County Council marks an exciting step forward enhancing the Fort’s tourism potential, with more ambitious developments planned as further funding is secured.
Minister Calleary said he was delighted to mark the renewal of Duncannon Fort, which he described as “a remarkable national monument in this historic site on the Hook Peninsula.
“It is very encouraging to see the refurbishment and restoration of these three buildings, now brought back into meaningful use for the community and for tourism, in a way that ensures accessibility for all,” added Minister Calleary.
Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, said “it is with great pride that we celebrate the reopening of Duncannon Fort, a historic jewel on the Hook Peninsula, now revitalised through the first phase of restoration.
“This is just the beginning, with more exciting restoration to come, and I invite everyone to visit Duncannon Fort to experience its history and breathtaking views,” concluded Cllr Sullivan.
Cllr John Dwyer, Cathaoirleach New Ross Municipal District recalled growing up in New Ross town in the 1960s and 1970s and “our holidays inevitably were spent in Duncannon village and the Fort was always a magical place full of mystery and intrigue.
“It was during this time that I learned the words of The Croppy Boy and I can still sing this beautiful upon request,” said Cllr Dwyer bringing laughter from the large attendance in the outdoors on a beautiful Spring afternoon.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD was full of praise for the Council, the members and the officials, and the communities for the great work that happens in County Wexford to have a Masterplan and then to see fruition, which doesn’t happen in every county.
“We can be very proud of our heritage. A special mention to the fantastic community here in Duncannon and to acknowledge how proud you are here in your local community and I look forward to securing even further funding for the preservation of our wonderful local heritage,” concluded Minister Browne.
Speaking on behalf of Wexford County Council, Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe said: “I am delighted to celebrate the reopening of the newly refurbished Duncannon Fort, marking the first step in our Masterplan to restore this historic gem to its former glory.”
Mr. Taaffe extended gratitude to Minister Calleary and his Department for the generous funding, the dedicated contractors and the Municipal Council crew, whose exceptional skill and commitment have revitalised this landmark, with future developments to come.
Attendees included Senator Cathal Byrne, Cllrs Bridín Murphy, Michael Sheehan, John Fleming, Pat Barden and Marty Murphy and Deputy Chief Executive Eamonn Hore. It’s fair to recognise former Cllrs Michael Whelan and Anthony Connick for their support of the project while in office.
The ceremonial aspect of the occasion was enhanced by the guard of honour provided by members of the 10th Battalion Veterans’ Association and the contribution of the New Ross FCA Pipe Band members.
Alan Fitzhenry, New Ross District Manager, and his staff co-ordinated the event and acted as master of ceremonies.
Wexford student, Emily Gregan (age 6), from Tara Hill National School, Gorey is a winner in this year’s 72nd Texaco Children’s Art Competition. She is pictured with her prize-winning work entitled ‘Tina Cat And The Bouncing Balls’ with her mum, Louise and dad, Shane. The picture was taken at a function to announce the top winners held in Dublin.
By Dan Walsh
A Wexford student has won a top prize in this year’s 72nd Texaco Children’s Art Competition. In the 6 years and under age category –the youngest age group in the Competition –Emily Gregan (6) from Tara Hill National School, in Gorey has won second prize for her work entitled ‘Tina Cat and the Bouncing Balls’.
Describing Emily’s artwork, Final Adjudicator – Irish visual artist, curator and educator – Pauline O’Connell, says it “depicts a lively and charming image of a marmalade cat surrounded by an array of colourful bouncing balls, capturing both movement and playfulness with warmth and clarity.”
The Texaco Children’s Art Competition is popularly regarded as the longest-running sponsorship in the history of arts sponsoring in Ireland, with an unbroken history that dates to the very first Competition held in 1955.
This year, as has been the case throughout its life, it has been a platform on which young artists from Wexford and counties throughout Ireland have had their talents recognised and their creativity commended.
WexfordLocal.com 