Fáilte Cúirt Dhairmaid Uí Shúilleabháin

At the official opening of the new 22-unit social housing estate named Cúirt Dhairmaid Uí Shúilleabháin at Creagh, Gorey, (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Cúirt Dhairmaid Uí Shúilleabháin, Creagh, Gorey

The new 22-unit social housing estate named Cúirt Dhairmaid Uí Shúilleabháin at Creagh, Gorey, was officially opened today (Friday) by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD.

Minister Browne said; “When we discuss housing delivery, we easily fall into talking about numbers and amounts when it is actual human stories that are at the heart of everything we are doing. That is so clear here today in Gorey, at this wonderful development of 22 homes at Cúirt Dhairmaid Úí Shúilleabhain  which will provide homes and a community for local families.

“It is occasions such as these that give me the opportunity, as Minister, to see first-hand the immense work being carried out on the ground by local authorities,” said Minister Browne, who added; “With the help of over €8.8 million funding from my own Department , this project is delivering high quality, sustainable, and well-located homes and – crucially – providing life changing opportunities for those who live here.”

Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council said; “Building communities, rather than just building houses, is what we want to achieve for County Wexford and Cúirt Dhiarmaid Ui Súilleabháin is a fantastic example of Wexford County Council’s housing delivery ambition.

Cllr Sullivan said the estate is named after Diarmuid Ó Súilleabháin, a native of the Beara Peninsula in County Cork, a teacher at St. Joseph’s CBS Primary School in Gorey, a highly respected literary figure, a Gaeilgeoir and credited with bringing the Meánscoil to Gorey.

Wexford County Council Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe described the occasion as “another successful day in the Council’s housing construction programme” and he continued; “It goes without saying that housing delivery – be it social, affordable or private – is an absolute priority for Wexford County Council.”

Mr Taaffe pointed out that since 2022 the Council and their partners have delivered over 1,200 social houses and 365 are in the Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District.

The attendance included Minister Browne, Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Cllr Donal Kenny, Cathaoirleach Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District, Cllrs Nicky Boland and Craig Doyle, Cleary & Doyle Construction Team, members of the Ó Súilleabháin family.

Mr Alan Quirke, Director of Services, Wexford County Council acted as master of ceremonies.

Rosslare Harbour Maritime Festival

LEO COY officially launched the Rossalre Harbour Maritime Festival at the Memorial Garden this evening. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Rosslare Harbour

The 5th annual three-day Rosslare Harbour Maritime Festival was officially opened by Leo Coy, Organiser Festival Committee, following the lively Village Parade at the Memorial Garden earlier this evening.

Mr Coy is welcoming everybody to Rosslare Harbour this week for a wonderful time for all the family. “The festival would not be possible without the support of our sponsors for which we say a big thanks,” concluded Mr. Coy. 

The parade featured Coastguards, St. Paul’s under 9’s plus, Rosslare Rangers, St. Patrick’s Fife & Drum Band, Tuskar Scouts, the High C’s Shanty Band, Kilrane Rosslare Harbour Men’s Shed, ICA, Rathnure Panto Group, Anglo Norman Group, Environment Group, RNLI and the Bloco Garman Drummers.

On Saturday at 2pm is the unveiling of St. Patrick 1941 plaque at the viewing point; Sand events at Rosslare Harbour Beach and from 11-4pm at the Maritime Heritage Centre can be viewed the Brittany Ferries Exhibition and the Renault Cars Display.

Sunday’s programme begins at 11m at the Viewing Point with Wexford Walking Trails along the Cliff Top and around the village. There is a Crab Fishing Competition (11am) and the Blessing of the Boats ceremony at the Lagoon at 12 noon.

The Wexford Sailing Cots race for the James Wickham Cup takes place in Rosslare Bay at 2pm approx.

And in the Memorial Garden on Sunday afternoon there is music with the High C’s, face painting, games with Bernie and prize presentations. Food and ice cream also on the menu and temperatures of 22 degrees make for a wonderful occasion for all the family.

Strong public interest for ‘An Lisín Mór’, Wexford.

Mayor Borough District of Wexford, Cllr Garry Laffan, Cllr, Vicky Barron Borough District of Wexford, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cllr. Aoife Rose O’Brien Rosslare Municipal District, Cllr. Tom Forde Borough District of Wexford.

By Dan Walsh

Wexford County Council has welcomed the strong level of public interest shown at a recent Affordable Housing Information Event for the An Lisín Mór development in Coolballow, Wexford.

The event, held at Whites Hotel, attracted a significant attendance of prospective homebuyers eager to learn more about the upcoming release of homes under the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme.

Attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with representatives from Wexford County Council’s housing and commercial finance teams, who provided guidance on eligibility requirements, affordability calculations and the application process.

An Lisín Mór, a new housing development in Coolballow, will deliver a range of high-quality A-rated two, three and four-bedroom homes, helping to address growing demand for affordable home ownership in County Wexford. The development represents a significant investment in providing sustainable, energy-efficient housing for individuals, couples and families seeking to establish long-term roots in their communities.

With the application of government supports and equity contributions, prices for the affordable purchase homes will start from €240,000, with buyers able to get support through the Government’s Help to Buy Scheme.

Speaking following the event, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Joe Sullivan, stated: “The turnout at this information event highlights the very real demand for affordable housing opportunities across County Wexford. An Lisín Mór, is the sixth scheme Wexford County Council have launched since 2025.This is another important step in delivering quality homes that are within reach of working individuals and families. We are committed to supporting people on their journey to home ownership.”

The application portal for An Lisín Mór will open at 12 noon on Wednesday, June 24th at 12pm. Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the scheme criteria and supporting documentation in advance.

To further support potential purchasers, Wexford County Council will host an online information webinar on June 18th at 7pm, providing a detailed overview of the application process and a demonstration of the online application portal.

Interest applicants are encouraged to email rsvp@wexfordcoco.ie to book their place.

Enniscorthy weekend of music and fairytales

Well-known environmentalist Éanna Ní Lamhna is taking a free biodiversity walk around the Orchard Peace Park at 11.30am on Saturday. One of the highlights of the 18th Enniscorthy Street Rhythms Festival this weekend. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh

The 18th Enniscorthy Street Rhythms Festival brings atmosphere to Slaneyside this weekend with a myriad of attractions to excite young and old.

Saturday’s family entertainment programme includes the Martina Dance Academy, Rathnure Pantomime Society and a kid’s disco.

Market Square will be buzzing with all types of dance from Jazz, Brazilian Dancer, Indian Drummer, South East Rock ‘n’ Roll Club on Sunday.

Join the magic of Fairytales in the Castle where the word is to come dressed in a Princess or Super Hero outfit! That’s happening on Sunday and there are prizes to be won.

Well-known environmentalist Éanna Ní Lamhna is taking a free biodiversity walk around the Orchard Peace Park at 11.30am on Saturday. Meet at the Presentation Centre.   

Topping the bill is the first ever Rhythm Rebels Dance Battle on Sunday at The Athenaeum Hall, bringing together dancers, dance schools, and hip-hop culture enthusiasts for an action-packed day of competition, creativity, and community.

Free Hip-Hop and Breakdance Workshops from 11am – 1pm for young people aged 8–18 years, giving them the opportunity to try these exciting dance styles at no cost.

The official Rhythm Rebels Dance Battle Competition should prove popular. An after-party with DJ Shaz, keeping the energy going into the evening with ten championship trophies for first-place winners.

Rhythm Rebels Dance Battle promises to be a fantastic celebration of dance, culture, and community, and a fitting addition to the Enniscorthy Street Rhythms Festival.

It’s all happening in Enniscorthy this weekend. A big programme of events, too many to mention here, but programmes are available.

Wexford RNLI fundraisers honoured

Brian and Eithne Coulter recognised for joint 60 years volunteering for the RNLI. (Pic; RNLI/Lorraine Galvin)

By Dan Walsh

A generous husband and wife team from Wexford RNLI have been recognised for a combined 60 years of dedicated volunteering service to the RNLI.

Brian and Eithne Coulter received their long service awards at the RNLI Volunteer Recognition Event held at Clontarf Castle, Dublin.

Brian was presented with his 20-year service medal, while Eithne received her 40-year service medal.

The couple have been longstanding members of Wexford RNLI’s fundraising branch and have made a significant contribution to the charity through their commitment to fundraising and community engagement.

Their efforts have helped raise vital funds to support the RNLI’s lifesaving service, ensuring crews have the training, equipment and support needed to save lives at sea.

The RNLI Volunteer Recognition Event celebrated the dedication and commitment of volunteers from across Ireland who give their time to support the charity’s mission to save lives at sea.

Everyone at Wexford RNLI congratulates Brian and Eithne on their awards and thanks them for their many years of valued service.

Cogan’s of Shannon Quay is sold

The former Cogan’s and later Sawyer’s licensed premises on Shannon Quay, Enniscorthy, displays the ‘Sale Agreed’ sign. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at the monthly meeting of Wexford County Council

Property situated at Shannon Quay, Enniscorthy, formerly known as Sawyers Pub, but better known locally as Cogans, has been sold for €101,000.

The property was acquired by Wexford County Council by agreement, having previously been owned by Remcoll 3 Limited.

The property is to be sold to Mr Cáel Coughlann, of Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow.

The property was valued at €120,000, however, the estate agent noted that the flooding in Enniscorthy in January had an extremely detrimental effect on the sales process regarding this property, as the property itself as well as the surrounding area was gravely affected. A best and final offer of €101,000 was accepted in March. 

The purchaser is required to substantially complete works on this property so as to render it ‘non-derelict’, within a time period prescribed in the contract for sale and there is a buyback option for the Council should the works not be completed within the required timeframe.

HISTORY; Kildare native Johnny Cogan and his wife, Anne, took charge of this small licensed premises on Shannon Quay in 1968. It was extended over the years and was once one of Enniscorthy’s leading night life spots.

Johnny Cogan acquired the premises from another Kildare native, Tony ‘Bilko’ Nolan and before him, Moses Byrne was the licensee. A modern spacious lounge was extended by Cogan on an adjoining site acquired from the Yates family.

The Old House pub site is sold

The former licensed premises THE OLD HOUSE at Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, has been sold. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at monthly meeting of Wexford County Council

A prominent property at 6, Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, and formerly known as The Old House pub has been sold for €75,000 to MD Custom Electric Limited of Tracystown, Bridgetown, Co. Wexford.

The property was vested in Wexford County Council ownership since last October following a Derelict Sites ACT CPO, having previously been in the ownership of St. Malo International Limited, and Fergus Lowe.

The purchaser is required to substantially complete works on this property so as to render it ‘non-derelict’, within a time period prescribed in the contract for sale and there is a buyback option for the Council should the works not be completed within the required timeframe.

Man (30s) arrested as weapons drugs and cash found in vehicle near Enniscorthy

By Dan Walsh

Gardaí on patrol in Enniscorthy observed a vehicle at a roundabout in Scarawalsh in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The vehicle failed to stop when directed by members of An Garda Síochána, and subsequently fled the scene driving erratically in the direction of Enniscorthy.

During the course of this incident, the driver proceeded to ram the patrol car.

The driver, a man in his 30s, attempted to escape on foot and was apprehended by Gardaí at the scene.

He was taken to Wexford General Hospital to be treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Gardaí seized the vehicle and upon searching the vehicle a .32 auto pistol, four rounds of ammunition, approximately €40,000 worth of controlled drugs and cash in excess of €8,000 was located.

Several other weapons were also seized, along with a number of mobile phones.

The driver of the vehicle was released from hospital and arrested and taken to a Garda station in the Division where he is currently detained under Section 30, Offences Against State Act, 1939.

Investigations are ongoing.

Burst water main in Enniscorthy 

River Slaney flows through Enniscorthy. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh

Uisce Éireann crews are working to repair a major burst in Enniscorthy and restore water to customers affected. Repairs are expected to be completed by 2pm today. 

The burst is impacting customers in Nunnery Road, The Moyne, Moran Park, Old Dublin Road, Sean Browne Court, Coolnahorna, Ballinahallin, Greenville Lane, Bohreen Hill and surrounding areas in Enniscorthy.

Uisce Éireann’s Padraig Lyng has assured customers that every effort is being made to restore a full water supply as quickly as possible.  

“We understand the inconvenience of an unplanned interruption, and we thank customers for their support while our works continue.” 

Typically, it takes two to three hours following repairs for normal supply to restore to all customers affected by an unplanned outage. However, it may take longer for normal supply to be restored to customers at the end of the network or on higher ground as the system recharges.  

Should Public Health Nurses receive parking exemptions?

By Dan Walsh at Wexford County Council meeting

Gorey-based Cllr Nicky Boland has called on Wexford County Council to provide on-duty parking exemptions for public health nurses working in Co. Wexford towns. He was speaking at Monday’s meeting of Wexford County Council.

CLLR NICKY BOLAND (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

Cllr Boland, who had raised the matter at the May meeting of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council meeting, noted that there are 30 public health nurses in Co. Wexford and one nurse had received a parking summons while on “an end of care” call in Gorey!

Cllr Boland proposed parking exemptions only during working hours at what proves to be “an emergency” be it a newborn, palliative or end of care situation.

He asked that Wexford County Council liaise with the HSE to see if the proposal could be rolled out through the county. Cllr Michael Sheehan said he was 100% in agreement. Support also from Cllr Tom Forde.

But Cllr Bridín Murphy, who informed the elected members that she was a social worker, questioned Cllr Boland’s suggestion and asked “where does the boundary come in place; who should and who shouldn’t” be facilitated?

Deputy Eamonn Hore said that matter should be referred to the HSE. He felt the matter can be complicated and he remarked that “not all calls are emergencies!”