CLLR PAT KEHOE is elected Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh at the annual meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District
There are 173 names listed as serving Enniscorthy town and district since 1855, however, this morning at the annual meeting in the Presentation Centre, Enniscorthy, Cllr Pat Kehoe became the first ‘Kehoe’ to get his name on the board when he was elected Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council.
Nominated by Cllr Trish Byrne who described Cllr Kehoe as “hard working, committed, approachable and works well with everyone” and seconded by Cllr Aidan Browne, who remarked “it’s a great day for Marshalstown” Cllr Kehoe received the chains of office from outgoing Cathaoirleach Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy who wished him well in his new role.
Married to Elaine and parents of four children – Orlagh, Caoimhe, Michael and Darragh, who is in Australia – Cllr Kehoe was supported by his family in chamber including his sister, Helen Roban. Senator Cathal Byrne was also present.
The Fine Gael councillor from Marshalstown, who was successful in holding the Fine Gael seat previously held by Kathleen Codd-Nolan at the Local Elections two years ago said it was a huge honour and he looked forward to working with his fellow councillors and officials for the good of the town, and not forgetting the district which stretches from Clonegal to Galbally.
Housing in the Milehouse area of Enniscorthy and the Flood Relief plans are amongst Cllr Kehoe’s priorities. He will also seek to create a more connected link between the Milehouse to the Esmonde Road/Drumgoold areas of Enniscorthy calling for a new bus service to be introduced.
The position of Leas-Cathaoirleach goes to Independent Cllr John O’Rourke. He was nominated by Cllr Jackser Owens and seconded by Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy.
Outgoing Cathaoirleach Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy listed a long number of projects completed or planned for the town and district.
She thanked a long list of people including the Press, staff at the Presentation Centre, Leas-Cathaoirleach Cllr Pat Kehoe, fellow councillors for their co-operation and courtesy, Barbara Nolan, Lisa Moore and Claire Lawless in the Enniscorthy office and Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe.
Many tributes were paid to Cllr Murphy. Cllr Kehoe said; “she set the bar and was devoted to the position”; Cllr Owens and Browne agreed “she did a great job” and Cllr O’Rourke went even further in her praise. “You did a fantastic job,” he stated. Cllr Byrne said it was her first year and she acknowledged “the great support given.”
Director of Services Caroline Godkin said Cllr Murphy was “an excellent chair and very experienced” and acknowledged there were “some highs and some challenges, as always.”
Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 50-year-old Paul Woods, who is reported missing from a hiking holiday in Kilbora, Camolin, Co. Wexford, since Wednesday.
Paul was headed to hike the Blackstairs Mountain. He was last seen on Tuesday 23rd June 2026 at 9.30 am in the Kilbora, Camolin area in his KIA Stonic, Black, REG-LJI789.
PAUL WOODS
Paul is described as being approximately 6 foot 3 inches in height, slim build, with dark short hair.
When last seen, he was wearing a blue T-shirt, black/grey trousers, hiking boots and a rucksack.
Gardaí and Paul’s family are seriously concerned for his safety.
Anyone with information on Paul’s whereabouts is asked to contact Enniscorthy Garda Station on 053 924 2580, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
Laying wreaths at the new World War II plaque were Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Brian Wickham, RNLI, Cllr Ger Carthy, Cathaoirleach Rosslare Municipal District, Cllr Jim Codd and Cllr Frank Staples. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh at Rosslare Harbour
The beautiful Cliff Walk overlooking the beach at Rosslare Harbour with the Tuskar Rock as the perfect maritime backdrop was soaking in the highest temperatures this evening for the ceremonial unveiling of a plaque jointly performed by Cathaoirleach of Rosslare District, Cllr Ger Carthy and the Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Joe Sullivan.
The pleasant occasion marked the 85th anniversary of an event during World War II (December 3rd, 1941), when a floating mine struck Tuskar Rock Lighthouse, exploded and injured two of the ‘keepers, Paddy Scanlon and William Cahill.
The crew of the Rosslare Harbour Lifeboat – Murt O’Rourke (Coxwain), Richard Walsh, Paddy Wickham. Jack Wickham, Jim Walsh and Bert Moncas – immediately set to sea.
They ferried the injured men to shore but the uninjured ‘keeper, Peter Roddy refused to leave his post so Jack Wickham volunteers to stay with him.
Cllr Ger Carthy gave a resumé of events from that tragic occasion and concluded with the words; “We remember all those brave men and ‘keeper Paddy Scanlon who died that night from his injuries.”
Cllr Joe Sullivan told the large attendance that; “This story is part of Wexford’s history – one of courage, resilience and community. It reminds us of the quiet service carried out every day, often unseen but never without value.
“Today’s unveiling ensures that these men are not forgotten. As a Council, we are proud to support the preservation of this important legacy. May we honour their memory through the values they showed – duty, courage, and care for one another, concluded Cllr Sullivan, who was performing his last public function as Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council with the annual meeting taking place tomorrow (Friday).
Commemorative scrolls were presented to the families of Patrick Scanlon, William Cahill, Peter Roddy, Murt O’Rourke, Richard Walsh, Patrick Wickham, Jack Wickham, Jim Walsh and Bert Moncas. Wreaths were laid at the new plaque.
Acting Rosslare District Manager Edwina Colfer acted as master of ceremonies.
Her Worship, Mayor of Wexford CLLR VICKY BARRON. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh at Council Chamber, Wexford
Many people in attendance at the election of Mayor of Wexford held in the Council Chamber, Wexford, on Tuesday evening, were impressed by the positive and ambitious future view of Wexford pledged by the Mayor Vicky Barron in her opening speech.
WexfordLocal.com publishes the full speech in the hope that people with influence will read it and throw in their support and investment behind Mayor Barron’s ambitions for a better Wexford for all.
“Is é le bród agus buíochas mhór, go humhal ‘s go híseal, a sheasaim os bhur gcomhair inniu chun glacadh le hoifig Mhéara Loch Garman ónár gCathaoirleach agus iarmhéara, Garry Laffan. Go raibh maith agat a Garry as do chineáltas, do fhoighne agus do chothroime agus tú ag comhlíonadh do dhualgas le bliain anuas.
“Is é seo ceann de na honóirí is mó i mo shaol, gur dtoghfadh mo chomhchomhairleoirí mé, agus gabhaim buíochas ó chroí libh as an muinín atá agaibh asam.
“It is with immense pride, gratitude, and humility that I stand before you today to accept the office of Mayor of Wexford from our outgoing Cathaoirleach and Mayor, Garry Laffan. Thank you Garry for your kindess, your patience and fairness in how you carried out your duties over the last year.
“To be elected by my fellow councillors to serve as Mayor is one of the greatest honours of my life. I thank you sincerely for the trust and confidence you have placed in me.
“I pledge to serve this county and its people with dedication, integrity, and compassion. I pledge to honour the role, and all it entails. The privilege of wearing these robes, the wearing of the mayoral chains which hold the names of those who have gone before us, the civic duties which honour both our town and its people, will all be undertaken with humbleness and gratitude. “Thank you most sincerely to my wonderful Labour Party colleague, Catherine Walshe for her friendship and for the wonderful role model she is, having already served as Mayor of our District of Wexford.
“Today is also a significant moment for another reason. As one of the few women to hold this office, I am acutely aware of the women who came before me — women who challenged barriers, demanded equality, and created opportunities for future generations. “This moment belongs not only to me but to
every woman who has ever been told that leadership was not for her. It’s for every woman watching in who has been told not to run for office. For those who think politics isn’t for them. Politics is for you. It must be shaped by you.
“My journey into public life has always been shaped by a belief in fairness and opportunity. As an educator, I have spent my career witnessing the transformative power of education. I have seen how strong communities, good schools, supportive families, and public services can change lives. I have also seen the challenges faced by many families and communities and the inequalities that still exist.
These experiences have shaped my politics and my values. I believe in a society where every child has the chance to thrive, where older people are respected and supported, where workers are treated fairly, where women are equal, where consent is always sought and never assumed, where diversity is welcomed, and where nobody is left behind. As Mayor, I will strive to be a voice for those values.
“I want to be a Mayor who listens. A Mayor who is visible in all communities across our district. A Mayor who celebrates what makes Wexford special while never being afraid to speak up for those whose voices are too often unheard.
“Wexford is a district with enormous strengths. We are rich in culture, heritage, creativity, and community spirit. We are home to people who volunteer their time, support their neighbours, build local businesses, coach young people, care for loved ones, and quietly make our communities stronger every day. They are the real heart of Wexford.
“The challenges before us are significant. We need more affordable housing. We need stronger public services. We need vibrant town centres, sustainable development, quality jobs, and action on climate change. We need to ensure that economic progress benefits everyone, not just a few. But I am optimistic.
“I believe that when people work together, when communities are empowered, and when leadership is guided by fairness and inclusion, there is very little that cannot be achieved. As Mayor, I want to focus on building a vibrant, thriving and ambitious Wexford.
“I want Wexford to be recognised as a district where enterprise is encouraged, where innovation is supported, and where businesses of all sizes can flourish. From our indigenous enterprises and family businesses to new start-ups and international investors, economic growth must remain at the heart of our vision for the future.
“A vibrant county needs vibrant town centres. Dereliction and vacancy have a real impact on community confidence and economic activity. We cannot accept empty buildings and neglected streetscapes as inevitable. We must be ambitious in tackling dereliction, supporting regeneration, and bringing life back into our towns and villages. Every vacant building represents an opportunity—for housing, for business, for community use, and for renewal.
“One of my key priorities during my term as Mayor will be the establishment of a Mayor’s Forum for Wexford. This forum will bring together representatives from business, education, tourism, community organisations, the arts, agriculture, local government, and young people. Too often, people work in silos despite sharing the same goals.
“The Mayor’s Forum will create a space where stakeholders can come together, identify challenges, share ideas, and develop practical solutions for the future of Wexford.
“As I begin my term as Mayor, I do so with optimism and enthusiasm. I believe in Wexford. I believe in the talent of our people. Wexford people are creative. I believe in the strength of our communities. And I believe that by working together, we can create a county that is more prosperous, more vibrant, and more inclusive for everyone.
“Let this be a year of ambition. A year of partnership. A year of renewal. And a year in which we continue building a Wexford that future generations will be proud to call home.
Thank you for this extraordinary honour. Go raibh míle maith agaibh.”
Otherworlds Committee: Ken Kavanagh, Wally O’ Neill, Aoife Kavanagh, Jack Smyth, Shane Hurley, Steve Barnes and JJ Bird. (Missing from photo; Pippa Kinneen, Susana Silva, Siobhan Mahon, Jimmy Kavanagh, Dylan Delaney, Jamie Murphy, Paul Maloney, Steve Huenneke, Joe Byrne, Steph Byrne, John Michael Murphy and Alice Kavanagh.
By Dan Walsh
This weekend, Wexford will play host to the inaugural Otherworlds Festival, a brand-new celebration of science fiction, fantasy, horror, folklore, gaming and all things imaginative.
Over four days, from Thursday to Sunday, venues across Wexford Town will come alive with talks, workshops, screenings, panels, live performances, games and community events featuring some of Ireland’s most exciting writers, artists and creators.
The committee are especially delighted to welcome internationally acclaimed authors Eoin Colfer and Stuart Neville, and acclaimed graphic novel artists Ben Hennessy and Paul Bolger, as part of the festival programme.
Otherworlds was born out of the simple idea that stories matter. Science fiction, fantasy and horror allow us to imagine different futures, confront our fears, explore big ideas and, above all, bring people together.
“We wanted to create a festival that celebrates not only established creators, but also the incredible community of readers, gamers, cosplayers, artists and dreamers that exists here in Wexford and across Ireland.
“We were also keen to highlight the many quirky and interesting small businesses and communities which Wexford town plays host to. Wexford has always been a town rich in culture and creativity, and Otherworlds adds something unique to that landscape. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of speculative fiction or simply curious about exploring new worlds, there is something in the programme for everyone.
We would encourage people to come along, try something new, meet fellow enthusiasts and join us as we open the doors to Otherworlds for the very first time.
Full schedules of events can be found by searching Otherworlds Science-fiction festival on facebook or instagram.
CLLR JOHN FLEMING elected Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District for the third time today. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh at The Tholsol, New Ross
Fianna Fail’s Cllr John Fleming from Palace West, Clonroche, this afternoon became Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District for the third time at the annual meeting in The Tholsol, New Ross.
Proposed by Cllr Pat Barden and seconded by Cllr Bridín Murphy, Cllr Fleming assumed the Chair he previously held in 2018/’19 and 2019/2020 and said he was “delighted and honoured”, is looking forward to working with members and staff, “and I’ll carry out my demands. No problem”
Well-known in handball and GAA Cllr Fleming was first elected at the Local Elections in 2014, has retained his seat in all election’s since, and was Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council during the 2023-’24 season.
Tributes followed. Cllr Bridín Murphy said she was delighted for Cllr Fleming; “We come from the same parish. We are a team here. I wish you well and is always here to support you,” added Cllr Murphy.
In his praise, Cllr Michael Sheehan predicted that “the year ahead will be very exciting.” Cllr Pat Barden said projects in the town are moving in the right direction but offered his backing support for projects outside the town and in the districts.
Cllr John Dwyer called on the Cathaoirleach saying; “We need affordable housing in New Ross. Can you make that a priority? I believe you have the passion to do it.”
Cllr Bridín Murphy proposed Cllr Michael Sheehan for the position of Leas-Cathaoirleach; Cllr John Dwyer seconded the nomination. It was pointed out that Cllrs Sheehan and Dwyer are the longest serving members having been elected to the defunct New Ross Town Council.
“I would like to thank the officials for what was a great year in terms of activity,” commenced outgoing Cathaoirleach Cllr John Dwyer.
In a light-hearted remark Cllr Dwyer said he would also like to thank the members “for behaving themselves” (laughter) and said he tried to be fair when members came in multiple times on the same issue! That said, “I thank all the members for their co-operation during the year and, indeed, the officials,” said Cllr Dwyer.
Cllr Michael Sheehan congratulated Cllr Dwyer saying, “you were immensely fair, treated all with dignity and respect and you were passionate about the town and district.”
“Extremely fair” were the words of Cllr Marty Murphy, while Cllr Pat Barden said Cllr Dwyer was “very fair, very genuine, 100%, and you did a brilliant job.”
Cllr Bridín Murphy mentioned “the legend that is John Dwyer. You are incredibly passionate about what you do. An absolute gentleman that cares for everything.”
Leas-Cathaoirleach Cllr John Fleming said; “it was a great positive year for the Council and we worked well together.”
There were also tributes from District Manager Alan Fitzhenry and Director of Services Eamonn Hore. Mr Fitzhenry gave a resumé of projects undertaken during the year, while Mr. Hore pointed out that “it is the little things that matter and a lot of good things have started for the year ahead.”
Uisce Éireann crews are responding to a water outage impacting Campile, Great Island and surrounding areas following a burst on a trunk watermain.
To support customers, a water tanker will be in place in Campile village today, with additional water available via IBCs at Horeswood Church and at the local GAA pitch. Customers are advised that water from tankers and static tanks should be boiled before consumption as a precaution.
Following works yesterday to connect a new watermain serving Great Island, supply was initially restored. However, a burst occurred at approximately 8pm last night, and the water supply was subsequently turned off to protect the network, impacting customers in Campile, Great Island, Horeswood and parts of Burkestown.”
Efforts were made overnight to begin refilling the reservoir. Crews are on site today (Wednesday) to locate and repair the burst, with repairs expected to be completed by approximately 4pm today. Uisce Éireann’s Water Operations Manager for Wexford,
Padraig Lyng, acknowledged the disruption to homes and businesses: “We understand the significant impact this unplanned outage is having on the communities of Campile, Great Island, Horeswood and surrounding areas. Our crews are working to restore supply as quickly and as safely as possible.
“Our priority today is to locate and repair the burst. We thank the community for their continued patience while these essential works are carried out,” stated Mr. Lyng.
Customers may continue to experience low pressure or outages until repairs are completed and the network refills. Typically, it can take a number of hours following repairs for normal supply to return to all customers, particularly for those at the end of the network or on higher ground.
MAYOR OF WEXFORD CLLR VICKY BARRON. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh at the Council Chamber, Wexford.
Cllr Vicky Barron is the new Mayor of Wexford and was congratulated by fellow councillors, officials, Labour Party members and her family at the annual meeting of Wexford Borough District held in the Council Chamber, Carricklawn, on Tuesday evening.
Cllr Barron was nominated by “her long-time friend and fellow Labour Party member”, Cllr Catherine ‘Biddy’ Walsh and seconded by Cllr Raymond Shannon, outgoing Deputy Mayor.
Cllr Robbie Staples was proposed by Cllr Leonard Kelly, seconded by Cllr Tom Forde, however he declined to allow his name to go forward, and Cllr Barron was duly elected. However, Cllr Staples accepted the Deputy Mayor position when proposed by Cllr Raymond Shannon and seconded by outgoing Mayor Cllr Garry Laffan. “I am looking forward to working with Mayor Barron,” said Cllr Staples.
Mayor Barron is a teacher living and working in her native Wexford town. A member of The Labour Party, she received 412 first preference votes at the 2023 Local Elections and she was still standing at the 11th and final count when her vote had more than doubled and stood at 986 votes.
Mayor Barron replaced George Lawlor TD on Wexford Borough Council and Wexford County Council in December, 2024.
“This is one of the greatest honours of my life,” said Mayor Barron who promised to be a Mayor that will listen and a Mayor that will work for Wexford culture, heritage and community.
Mayor Barron was proud to share the occasion in the company of her family, parents Mary and Tony Clancy, her husband Michael and their children, Jack, Luke and Micheál.
All members in the chamber congratulated Mayor Barron, wished her well in her civic duties, and promised their full support. Those sentiments were also echoed by Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, Eddie Taaffe.
Outgoing Mayor, Cllr Garry Laffan reflected that “being Mayor was a great privilege to be part of” and he regarded being Mayor in the year of Fleadh Cheoil na h-Eireann was “a special experience.”
Cllr Laffan thanked his fellow Deputy, Cllr Raymond Shannon, Council staff and officials and his family – wife Catherine and children Marie and Aidan – for their understanding and pledged support for Mayor Barron and the Wexford Borough District for the coming year.
Uisce Éireann, along with Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, marked a significant occasion for Enniscorthy with the completion of a €19 million upgrade to the Enniscorthy Regional Water Supply Scheme. L-R Cllr Trish Byrne, Senator Cathal Byrne, Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne, Diane Carroll, Portfolio Manager Uisce Éireann, Niall Gleeson, CEO Uisce Éireann, Cllr Aidan Browne. (Pic; Naoise Culhane).
By Dan Walsh
Uisce Éireann, along with Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, marked a significant occasion for Enniscorthy with the completion of a €19 million upgrade to the Enniscorthy Regional Water Supply Scheme.
Speaking at the Water Treatment Plant at Vinegar Hill, overlooking the town, Minister Browne noted the critical importance of the investment for the local community and the towns prosperous future: “The completion of this project is very positive news for the people of Enniscorthy, who will benefit from a more reliable and resilient water supply. A safe and dependable water supply is fundamental to family and community life. “Investment in our infrastructure is also investment in housing as future homes are dependent on key water services. This project’s completion will future proof Enniscorthy for continued growth and supports a thriving local economy which delivers lasting benefits for the wider region.
“The next investment in the town’s water infrastructure begins in early July with the expansion of the pipe that brings treated water from the upgraded water treatment plant into town. It’s great to see ongoing progress and investment dedicated to enhancing Enniscorthy’s water supply.”
Uisce Éireann Portfolio Manager Diane Carroll added: “This project represents a powerful commitment to Enniscorthy’s future. As this region continues to expand, our water infrastructure must rise to meet that momentum. This major upgrade marks a fantastic milestone in securing a safe and reliable water supply for Enniscorthy, while also boosting capacity for future growth.
“We’re delighted to have delivered this important project to modernise and improve the water infrastructure for the community in Enniscorthy. The town now has a more resilient and dependable water supply, positioning the area for continued development into the future,” concluded Ms. Carroll.
The local benefit was echoed by Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Joe Sullivan stated; “The Enniscorthy Regional Water Supply Scheme now stands as a critical piece of infrastructure that will serve the town for generations and make Enniscorthy a better place to live — ensuring a supply of clean and safe water while respecting the River Slaney, strengthening supply resilience in extreme weather, and enabling Enniscorthy to continue to grow and thrive in a sustainable way.”
The project involved major engineering works including the construction of a new intake and pumping station at Clonhaston, which was designed with climate resilience in mind to future proof the supply, and the building of 2km of new interconnecting raw water mains enabling improved transfer of water from the River Slaney to the upgraded Vinegar Hill Water Treatment Plant. With the new raw water intake, pumping station and high-quality treatment now in place, the scheme can now support the needs of the growing community.
CLLR MARY FARRELL was elected Cathaoirleach of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh at Gorey Kilmuckridge Annual Meeting in Gorey
“I am deeply honoured and sincerely grateful to accept the position of Cathaoirleach of Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council and I would like to thank my fellow councillors for placing their trust and confidence in me,” the words of Cllr Mary Farrell who was elected unopposed at the annual meeting in the Council Chamber at Gorey Civic Centre this afternoon.
First elected as an Independent member in 2014, Kilmuckridge-based Cllr Farrell is the only sitting female member of the 10-person Council serving north and eastern Wexford. Her nomination was proposed by Cllr Oliver Walsh and seconded by Cllr Pip Breen.
“As Chair I look forward to working closely with every member of this Council, regardless of affiliation. We all share a common goal – to improve the lives of the people we represent and to ensure that our town, villages and communities continue to thrive”, said Cllr Farrell.
Cllr Farrell said she is committed to working collaboratively with Councillors, Council staff, community groups and local stakeholders to help deliver positive outcomes for our communities. “On a personal note, I would like to thank my family, who are here with me today.”
“I accept this position with pride, humility and a strong case of responsibility,” she said, and concluded; “I look forward to serving as Cathaoirleach over the coming year and to working with all of you in a spirit of co-operation, respect and ambition for our district.”
Fellow councillors and officials congratulated Cllr Farrell and wished her every success.
Cllr Darragh McDonald was chosen for the Leas-Cathaoirleach position having been proposed by Cllr Anthony Donohoe and seconded by Cllr Donal Kenny.
Outgoing Cathaoirleach Cllr Donal Kenny reflected on the past year saying “It was a privilege for me and my family to have been elected for the second time. We got a lot done”, he said as he went through a list of achievements such as opening housing estates and looking forward, he noted that a few future projects have started.
Cllr Kenny said that Philip Knight (former District Manager) and Liz Stanley had departed and went to Wexford while Anita McLoughlin (District Manager) and Stephanie Furlong filled their places.
Cllr Kenny also praised officials like Liz Hore “a tremendous asset to Gorey”; County Secretary Michael Drea; commended Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe “doing a great job since taking over”; thanked his family for “their understanding” and thanked his fellow councillors who treated him with respect.
WexfordLocal.com 