New footpath halts at river crossing

By Dan Walsh at Gorey Kilmuckridge Council meeting

The footpath from Gorey to Courtown has finally reached Ballinatray Bridge, and the Council discussed how to cross the Ounavarra river at last Tuesday’s Gorey Kilmuckridge meeting. Cllr Donal Kenny was in the chair.

I will provide an update later in this report, but currently, the Council seems unsure of the next steps. All suggestions have previously been discussed, but no decision has been taken and the river crossing to be progressed.

A STOP/GO system on the bridge has received no support. Continuing the footpath over the bridge and reducing the road to one lane is strongly opposed, especially by Cllrs Joe Sullivan and Anthony Donohoe.

Attaching a footbridge to the exterior of the existing bridge is a non-runner because it is a heritage building and a protected structure!

Courtown Woods is owned by Active Travel and Coillte. A steel bridge over the river is a popular idea but may be difficult to implement. The saga goes on and on…

BALLINATRAY BRIDGE over the Ounavarra river. (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

THE STORY SO FAR; At a meeting in March 2024 the Director of Services with responsibility for roads and Deputy Chief Executive at Wexford County Council, Eamonn Hore, addressed the meeting and outlined very detailed plans for the completion of the footpath in the wake of a topographical survey that focussed on the footpath crossing the bridge.

Mr Hore outlined three options; (1) construction of a new bridge, (2) a cantilever deck (“an attachment to the exterior of the existing bridge”) and (3), a surface traffic control or STOP/GO system on the existing roadway. Then there is the matter of cost which would be estimated at around €2 million and in the region of €300,000 of that would be eaten up by consultants before any physical activity on site!

The councillors were totally against the STOP/GO system, so no change then from the last time the matter had been discussed at the December 2023 meeting. Cllr Anthony Donohoe stated that a STOP/GO system was, using racing parlance, a non-runner. He suggested maybe a suspension bridge would solve the problem, but Mr Hore reminded the meeting of the exorbitant cost that would involve.

Cllr Joe Sullivan felt a 60km speed limit would increase safety measures along the footpath.

Cllr Devereux suggested bringing the existing footpath through the woods “down brickyard hill or to the Ballymoney turn off.” There was some support for taking the Courtown Woods route, but some expressed ‘safety’ fears.

So, definitely no support for the STOP/GO suggestion as it was generally felt that it would cause considerable congestion. Mr Hore suggested to the members that the footpath be completed to the Ballymoney turn-off this year to ensure funding and to explore ways of crossing the Ounavarra River or Ballinatray bridge or explore more alternatives afterwards. This was agreed by the Cathaoirleach Cllr Pip Breen and the members.

HISTORY; A work relief scheme organised by Lord Courtown in 1846 for the benefit of the starving poor consisted of drainage and the construction of a road southwards from Ballymoney crossroads to join Gorey and Courtown Harbour road.
In 1847, the present three-arch bridge at Ballinatray, once known as the Courtown Viaduct and at the time, was the highest stone bridge in the country.
Ballinatray Bridge is a 19th century civil engineering feat designed by James Barry Farrell, (1810-1893), who was the County Surveyor, and other similarly amazing works by him can be admired at Carrigmannon, (1844), near Killurin, and Corbally Bridge (1854) on the Enniscorthy to Oulart Road.

Teenager missing from Barntown

Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of Sarah Louise Doyle (16), who was reported missing from Barntown, Co. Wexford since Wednesday 25th March 2026.

Sarah Louise is described as being approximately 5 foot 7 inches in height, with a slim build, blonde hair and blue eyes.

SARAH LOUISE DOYLE

When last seen, Sarah Louise was wearing light grey tracksuit trousers and a black hoodie top.

Gardaí and Sarah Louise’s family are concerned for her well-being.

Anyone with any information on Sarah Louise’s whereabouts is asked to contact Wexford Garda Station on (053) 9165200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

Enniscorthy retail goes digital

Pictured at the launch of the Enniscorthy Digital Retail scheme at Enniscorthy Castle were (left to right); Cllr Pat Kehoe, Claire Lawless, Enniscorthy District Manager, Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Stephen Hallahan, CEO Tap Retail, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Matt Ronan, Enniscorthy Digital Retail Village member, Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise & Economic Development Wexford County Council and Cllr Trish Byrne. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)  

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Castle

The formal launch of Enniscorthy Digital Retail Village scheme took place in Enniscorthy Castle last night.

District Manager Claire Lawless welcomed the invited attendance and stated that over the past three months retailers have been engaging and learning, and most importantly, growing. “This event is a chance to highlight the progress, to increase awareness and to hear from Tap Retail who are driving it,” said Ms. Lawless.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Joe Sullivan said he was delighted to launch the Enniscorthy Digital Retail Village scheme and acknowledged the attendance of Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllrs Pat Kehoe and Trish Byrne, Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise & Economic Development at Wexford County Council, Stephen Hallahan, Founder and CEO, and Barry Moylan and the team from Tap Retail.

Cllr Sullivan said the scheme unites local businesses on a single digital platform and allows customers to buy from multiple local shops in one single transaction, gives the local businesses the tools they need to grow and offer shoppers new ways to discover and support local retailers. He concluded by encouraging everyone to support local businesses and shopping.

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy said; “We do everything on our phones and now people are doing a lot of shopping on the phone and having Enniscorthy in the forefront using Tap Retail to be able to use an app to support local businesses and jobs, and to be able to get what you want delivered from a premises here in Enniscorthy is wonderful.”

“It is the way forward and the only thing that is going to keep our towns vibrant,” said Cllr Murphy, who added; “I can’t envisage a town that doesn’t have shops or retail or footfall and the only way forward for people who don’t come into town is to give them the apps to buy online.”

Stephen Hallahan, CEO Tap Retail said; “the vast majority of products that you are looking for online can actually be sourced within the town.” He outlined details of the Tap Retail scheme and claimed; “This is something that is really unique.”

He continued; “This is a market place that makes shopping a little easier for people who have mobility challenges, people who just generally don’t want to get out or people who can’t make it into the town, and the ability to buy from more than one shop.”

Matt Ronan owner of Evolv Health Store and a member of Enniscorthy Digital Retail Village said it has been a great experience working with Stephen and the Tap Retail team. “It could have been stressful, because technology generally brings a lot more stress than it is advertised, put the experience was so positive from day one. Enniscorthy is certainly leading the way and that’s a headline for Enniscorthy in itself.”

In conclusion, Mr Ronan said; “Irish towns are facing a lot of challenges, I do not dismiss that for a moment, however, I do believe that Irish towns have a future. Everything is changing, but we have become customer centric.”

Fourteen businesses have signed up for the scheme, namely Stafford’s Butchers, Evolv Health Store, Gillen’s Café, My Sport, Mahady Breen’s shoe shop, Authentic European Food Shop, Prep and Go, Reid’s Off-Licence, General Office and School Supplies, Meet Brazil, Eason’s Toy Department, Meraki Greek Café, Londis and Pet Depot.

 

Heritage signage on Vinegar Hill

By Dan Walsh

This week, two heritage signs, designed in the style of the 1916 information sign located opposite the Seamus Rafter Bridge, were officially unveiled on Vinegar Hill.

The signs have been awaiting delivery for some time now and the news was welcomed by members at Tuesday’s monthly meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council held in the Chamber at the Presentation Centre.

The 1998 bicentenary monumental display continues to serve as a public information source and venue for annual wreath-laying ceremonies.

A brief extract from the signage informs visitors to Vinegar Hill that; “On the morning of 21 June, (1798) there were approximately 10,000 Crown Forces in position. The Crown Forces were well armed with cannons and muskets, in comparison to the Rebels who had meagre weapons such as pikes.

“The Rebels’ position ahead of the battle was further weakened by the absence of Edward Roche and re-enforcements from Wexford town, who had yet to arrive. Furthermore, in the weeks leading up to the Battle of Vinegar Hill, the Rebels had made no attempt to make the hill a formidable defensive position.”

“On June 21 at 3 am, the battle commenced. General Johnson commenced artillery bombardment on the Rebel positions on the outskirts of Enniscorthy town, while General Lake commenced artillery bombardment of the Rebel positions on Vinegar Hill. Following intense artillery bombardment Rebel leaders positioned on the outskirts of the town retreated towards the Duffry Gate.

“At 7 am, Lake’s forces commenced infantry assault on the Rebels on Vinegar Hill. By this time the Rebels in the town were engaged in intense house to house fighting with General Johnson’s troops. The Rebels based in the town pulled back over Enniscorthy Bridge and a stalemate ensued. During the stalemate the Rebels and Crown Forces inflicted heavy casualties upon each other.”

For more information contact the National 1798 Rebellion Centre on Parnell Road for exhibits, artefacts and stories. Opens 9.30am.

Repair crews in safety scare

Horrendous road surface conditions at Esmonde Road. Repairs are prevented by intimidation. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Municipal District Council meeting

A section of the road surface on Esmonde Road at Killagoley, Enniscorthy, remains severely damaged following flooding seven or eight weeks ago, and the matter was raised at today’s Enniscorthy Municipal District Council meeting.

The meeting was shocked to learn that road workers assigned to repairs faced physical threats and abuse. Cone signs vanished, and intimidation was reported.

Work crews were withdrawn from the location due to safety concerns.

Despite its worsening condition, the road is still open to traffic.

The Council is investigating and may pursue legal action.

Yacht in trouble off Kilmuckridge

ROSSLARE HARBOUR RNLI

By Dan Walsh

Rosslare Harbour RNLI has come to the assistance of a lone sailor who alerted the Irish Coast Guard that his yacht was in difficulty off the Kilmuckridge coast.

Arriving on scene it was discovered that the yacht had developed engine trouble and, fortunately, the crew were able to fix the problem, and the yacht was able to continue to its destination.

Weather conditions were calm with good visibility at the time.

Speaking following the call out, Jamie Ryan, Rosslare Harbour RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Jamie Ryan complimented all involved: “We would like to commend the sailor for contacting the Coast Guard when they knew they were in difficulty and for having all the necessary safety and communication equipment on board,” he stated.

Welcome for 10-bed Mental Health Unit

By Dan Walsh

Wexford’s Mental Health Working Group has welcomed the commitment by Government Chief Whip and Minister of State at the Department of Health, Mary Butler TD to advance the development of a new 10-bed Specialised Community Mental Health Unit for County Wexford.

Chairperson, Cllr AoifeRose O’Brien said the Group had previously engaged with HSE regional representatives to review the current level of services available in the county.

CLLR AOIFE ROSE O’BRIEN (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

“From the outset, it was clear that County Wexford does not have the level of mental health supports available in other counties of comparable size. The absence of a dedicated crisis unit has been felt across families in our county for decades. We have consistently advocated on behalf of our community and strongly demonstrated the urgent need for a specialised crisis unit in Wexford,” stated Cllr O’Brien.

Cllr O’Brien noted that, through collaboration with FDYS, Wexford Mental Health Association and the Public Participation Network (PPN), the Group has been systematically identifying key gaps within existing services.

“Some of the issues highlighted through our engagement process have been deeply concerning. The provision of a 10-bed crisis unit represents the minimum level of service required to begin addressing the longstanding deficits in mental health care in our county,” she added.

The group has written to the Minister seeking clarification on several key matters, including the proposed timeline for the project.

“While we very much welcome this announcement, it is essential that progress now follows without delay. Our county has waited decades for access to an adequate, life-saving crisis facility. It is imperative that this project is delivered efficiently and to the highest standard,” concluded Cllr O’Brien.

From Cheltenham to Ballycrystal

Local winner Lady Jukebox (Brian Lawless) and Matthew Flynn O’Conner celebrate at Ballycrystal. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Ballycrystal

Cork rider Shane Cotter enjoyed his first success at the Cheltenham Festival and his good run of luck continued today (Sunday) at The Island Hunt fixture at Ballycrystal, Kiltealy, winning the four-year-old maiden race on Ferocimo for his retaining stables, Denis Murphy, Ballyboy, The Ballagh.

There was a local victory in the maiden race for five and six-year-old mares when Lady Jukebox triumphed by two and a half lengths for Matthew Flynn O’Connor. Brian Lawless the successful rider.

Sean Doyle saddled the first and second home in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings – Baz And Stokes (Ross Sugrue) and Riseandcall (Cormac Byrne – separated by one and a half lengths.

Ross Sugrue rode a double when partnering What Path, who made the long journey from North Kerry for Michael Mangan to take the Open Race and will be aimed at a cross country race at the Punchestown Festival in April.

Tipperary owner/trainer Sam Curling has an excellent strike rate at Ballycrystal and he saddled Deplama to win the Winner of One Race ridden by Nicole Lockhead Anderson.

The last race was won by Maison De Balzac ridden by Rob James for Colin Bowe. Bowe was in Ballynoe, Co. Cork, where he recorded a double on the day when the Barry O’Neill ridden newcomer Jurys Verdict scored by three and a half lengths in the maiden race for four-year-olds.

There was also point-to-point action today at Durrow, Co. Laois, where all six winners had Wexford connections. There was a double for Paul Martin Pierce, Blackhall Stud, Killurin, with Colegram in the five-year-old plus mares’ maiden and Sworn Duty in the Winner of One race.

Both of Pierce’s winners were ridden by Meath rider Joey Dunne, who recorded a treble on the day. His third win came aboard Eamonn Doyle’s Mossy Fen King by four lengths in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings.

Foulksmills rider Shane O’Rourke won the first two races for Ballymitty handler Garrett Murphy and the Turbine Syndicate. Sadnhbh’s A Singer in the mares’ four-old-maiden by two and a half lengths and Living in Luxury by one length in the four-year-old geldings maiden race continuing a fairytale season for Garrett Murphy and his team.

Mayglass rider Jack Hendrick teamed up with trainer Tom Dreaper on Rock On Richie in the concluding maiden race at Durrow and romped home by 28 lengths!

Ballindaggin Cormac Byrne was amongst the winners at Kirkistown, Co.Down, yesterday (Saturday) riding City Chief to ‘a head’ victory in the Open Race confined to novice riders.

Next Sunday’s point-to-point is the Bree Hunt races at Monksgrange, Rathnure. First race at 2pm. Entries close on Tuesday.

Island Hunt races at Ballycrystal

By Dan Walsh

An entry of 105 has been received for the Island Hunt point-to-point races at Ballycrystal, Kiltealy tomorrow (Sunday). The first race is at 1pm.

CORMAC BYRNE winner today at Kirkistown.

The going is described as “yielding, soft in places” and the forecast is for a dry day up to the time of racing.

The track has a good covering of grass, is well laid out and a good attendance is expected.

Young Ballindaggin rider Cormac Byrne was amongst the winners at Kirkistown, Co. Down, today (Saturday) riding City Chief to ‘a head’ victory in the Open Race confined to novice riders.

Challenges faced by fishing sector

SEAMUS O’FLAHERTY and CLLR JIM CODD have concerns about the fishing industry and the challenges it faces. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Kilmore Quay

The fishing industry faces challenges from unpredictable weather, reduced EU quotas, and the existence of different quotas for boats using the same fishing grounds.

I visited Kimore Quay today, where there are 23 trawlers and 25 lobster boats. Add the shoreline facilities and fishing supports around 500 jobs and contributes an estimated €35 million to the local economy each year.

Seamus O’Flaherty, part owner of OF Fishing located on the Quay gave an example of quota differences for Area 7a (Irish Sea) for Sole; Belgium 279 tonnes, UK 96 tonnes, Holland 88 tonnes and Ireland 69 tonnes.

Fishers who break the quota rules can find themselves facing criminal charges. Armed Gardaí have conducted raids and searches, taken away computers and other data in searches of offices in Kilmore Quay. “The laws are impossible to comply with, and skippers and trawler owners are regularly before the Central Criminal Court,” stated Mr. O’Flaherty

Recently, an EU fishery patrol boat with Irish, Finnish, and Latvian crew boarded a local vessel from Kilmore Quay about 50 nautical miles off the south coast. They measured cod ends and confiscated them. It is likely that a criminal case will be taken against the skipper.

Then there are problems out a sea. Different boats using the same fishing grounds are subject to different quotas depending on their country of origin.

Cllr Jim Codd, who has been an advocate for the local fishers said you can’t catch Black Sole but if they come up in the nets you can’t throw them back, you must land them and register them and possibly face criminal charges.

Rising fuel prices due to the Middle East war are making it more costly for the fishing industry to deliver fish nationwide.

Cllr Codd noted Kimore Quay’s historic role as a fishing village and urged the government and EU to review the quota system for fairer treatment of Ireland.