WexfordLocal.com

Wexford hosts Otherworlds Festival

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 in New Ross

**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.”

Water outages in Campile and Great Island

By Dan Walsh

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.

Cllr Vicky Barron is Mayor of Wexford

**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 11^th 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.

€19m Enniscorthy water upgrade is completed

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 is new Cathaoirleach

**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.

Enniscorthy is ‘Credit Union of the Year’

**Enniscorthy Credit Union manager Liz Cullen with management and staff celebrating the win (Liz is at the front in pink holding the award).**

By Dan Walsh

Enniscorthy Credit Union has been named “Credit Union of the Year” at the prestigious South East Radio Customer Service Awards 2026 held recently in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy.

Businesses and organisations from across the County Wexford gathered to celebrate outstanding dedication in service to customers in a wide range of industries.

The Credit Union of the Year award is a tremendous honour and recognises the commitment of Enniscorthy Credit Union’s staff and volunteers to delivering exemplary service to its members and the wider community.

For generations, Enniscorthy Credit Union has placed members at the heart of everything they do.

Speaking about the achievement, Manager of Enniscorthy Credit Union, Liz Cullen, told WexfordLocal.com; “We are incredibly proud to receive the Credit Union of the Year award. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, volunteers, and Board of Directors, who consistently go above and beyond to support our members. To be recognised among so many outstanding businesses and organisations, and our neighbouring Credit Union’s in the county, is a significant achievement for all who work here.

“Most importantly, we would like to thank our members for their continued trust and loyalty. Their support drives us every day to continue evolving our services to suit their needs and help them meet their financial goals,” concluded Ms. Cullen.

To the memory of the men, women and children on Vinegar Hill

**Celebrating the Battle of Vinegar Hill on Sunday evening.** (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

By Dan Walsh on Vinegar Hill

The Longest Day, Father’s Day and 228^th anniversary of the Battle of Vinegar Hill were celebrated in ceremonial style on Vinegar Hill, overlooking Enniscorthy town, on Sunday evening.

The principal speaker was historian Jacqui Hynes, joint editor of Wexford Rebels of 1798 (with Ronan O’Flaherty) who said; “Archaeological research reveals this site to be potential mass graves on this battlefield, silent testimony to the scale, the tragedy and the number of families torn apart, marked and unmarked graves, either on this hill and the roads from here contains the remains of many who died violently, including non-combatants reminding us that the cost of the rebellion was borne by entire households not just the men who fought.

“We can only surmise that for many survivors that stood on this hill 128 years ago today the impact was lifelong. Some returned home to shattered communities, others lived with the grief of lost family members.

“These men were not faceless. They were fathers, sons and neighbours whose families carried their loss for generations. As we celebrate the fathers in our life today (Father’s Day) let us remember all the men, women and children who stood on Vinegar Hill their hearts filled with courage and fear.

“May we honour them by cherishing the peace they never knew and by remembering this battlefield site with the respect and the dignity it deserves,” concluded Ms. Hynes.

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council and Chair of the 1798 and Enniscorthy Castle Board said; “we are here on the 228^th anniversary of the battle of Vinegar Hill to remember all those who died here in 1798.”

Very Rev. James Cullen, St. Aidan’s Parish and the Reverend Canon Nicola Halford, Rector Enniscorthy Monart Union of Parishes shared in ecumenical prayers.

Wreaths were laid at the ’98 memorial by Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy and Ms. Emily Murphy.

Maura Bell, Manager of the National 1798 Rebellion Centre acted as master of ceremonies. She welcomed Cllrs Barbara-Anne Murphy, Aidan Browne, Trish Byrne, John O’Rourke and Pat Kehoe. There was an apology read from Senator Cathal Byrne who could not attend.

There was a welcome for participants including ’98 Le Cheile, Ballindaggin Pipe Band, Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society.

The event commenced with a march by the members of St. Colman’s Pipe Band, Ballindaggin, up Vinegar Hill Lane and concluded with Amhrán Na bFhiann played by the band.

Farmers Market stays at Abbey Square

**Enniscorthy Farmers Market at Abbey Square takes place every Saturday from 9am-2pm.** (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Municipal District Council monthly meeting

Enniscorthy Farmers Market is happy with its Abbey Square location, especially with the parking on Abbey Quay, and while it might be under review it is going nowhere at present.

That was the view of Enniscorthy District Manager, Claire Lawless, following a suggestion from Cllr John O’Rourke that the market be moved to a town centre location. The matter was raised at the June meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District.

Cllr O’Rourke suggested that the Farmers Market be moved from its present location at Abbey Square to the old Dunnes Car Park. He also felt that allotments produce be incorporated into the Farmers Market. “It would help rejuvenate the town centre,” said Cllr O’Rourke.

This is not the first time that efforts were made to move the Farmers Market into the town centre, however, the Abbey Square site has been a permanent fixture for many years, and stall holders find it satisfactory to trade in this popular open-air environment beside the River Slaney.

Enniscorthy Farmers Market takes place every Saturday from 9am to 2pm.

This market features a wide selection of fresh produce, artisan foods, and handmade goods, all sourced from local farmers and makers.

Whether you’re looking for seasonal vegetables, locally reared meats, homemade treats, unique crafts, or fresh fish from Kilmore Quay, there’s something for everyone.

Blue Flag raised above Duncannon

**CLLR JOE SULLIVAN, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council and DEPUTY VERONA MURPHY, Ceann Comhairle Dáil Éireann were in Duncannon for the Blue Flag Raising Ceremony held there last Friday.**

By Dan Walsh

A new generation of Duncannon residents have grown up since 2007 with the absence of a Blue Flag, however, the tide has turned in 2026 and the community was excited by the Duncannon Blue Flag Raising Ceremony that took place on Friday.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Joe Sullivan said; “It gives me great pleasure to be here today nestled under Duncannon Fort on the Ring of the Hook to help raise the Blue Flag at this magnificent beach after nearly two decades.

“The people of Duncannon have shown great determination and tenacity with the assistance of Wexford County Council to regain the Blue Flag.

“The achievement of Blue Flag status for Duncannon Beach coincides with the re-opening of Duncannon Fort and it is hoped that this will help bring further visitors to the area in the next few years.

“I am delighted to be present to witness the raising of the Blue Flag above Duncannon Beach once more. It is great that Duncannon takes its place with Ballinesker, Carne, Curracloe, Morriscastle and Rosslare Strand amongst the best beaches in the country,” concluded Cllr Sullivan.

Cllr John Dwyer, Cathaoirleach New Ross Municipal District said; “It was an absolute pleasure to be invited to speak at the raising of the Blue Flag for Duncannon beach today. All across the New Ross District, I have been quietly fighting the corner of our rural communities, and I will continue to raise issues that are brought to me.”

Ceann Comhairle and local Oireachtas member Verona Murphy said it was “a great day for the community of Duncannon raising its regained Blue Flag and a packed Community Centre celebrated the occasion and the rain didn’t dampen spirits.

“A massive achievement after nearly 20 years, they never gave up and helped by 37 farmers achieved their aim. Well done,” added Deputy Murphy.

A number of local groups were acknowledged for their contribution to regaining the Blue Flag including Duncannon Tidy Towns, Duncannon Village Renewal, Hook Tourism, local businesses, local community volunteers, Uisce Éireann, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Wexford County Council staff.

The attendance included Cllrs Marty Murphy, John Fleming and Michael Sheehan, Alan Fitzhenry, New Ross District Manager, Eamonn Hore, Deputy Chief Executive Wexford County Council, and other invited guests.

Eoin Kinsella from Wexford County Council Environmental Section acted as master of ceremonies.