Sunday River and Nature Festival at Clone Beach

By Dan Walsh

National Heritage Week is proving a success, with strong attendance reported during the first half of the nine-day programme. More than 100 events are taking place across County Wexford before it concludes on Sunday, August 23rd.

WexfordLocal.com’s weekend promotional highlight is the Castletown River and Nature Festival, organised by the Ahare River and Biodiversity Group.

It kicks off on this evening (Friday) with a Bat Walk and bat box making workshop and is a “Wild Child ” event.

On Sunday they celebrate “Water Heritage ” with a Family Funday on Clone beach. There will be some nature seashore exploring and lots of fun and games for all the family.

CATHY LEE, Chairperson of The Ahare River and Biodiversity Group is welcoming all to Clone Beach for a family fun day on Sunday. (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com).

Cathy Lee, Chairperson of The Ahare River and Biodiversity Group told Wexford Local.com; “We are delighted that with the support of Wexford County Council the pedestrian bridge over the estuary has been reinstalled with ramp access aligning with the existing path to the beach. This will involve a mixture of ground works and beach mats.

“This not only enables wheelchair users to access the beach but also people with mobility issues and families with young children and buggies. A beach wheelchair is also available for the festival weekend courtesy of Wexford County Council,” added Ms. Lee.

On Sunday, August 23rd, there will be plenty of celebrations with a family fun day on Clone Beach.

It gets under way at 12 noon and will feature the Coast Guard, the RNLI and the Inland Fisheries and others. If you have any interest in the environment then Clone Beach is the place to be for fun, family and information.

Campile celebrates a more reliable water supply

By Dan Walsh

Families and businesses in Campile can expect a stronger, more reliable water supply following Uisce Éireann’s completion of major upgrades to the local network.

As part of the project, Uisce Éireann replaced more than 1.85 km of ageing water mains with modern, durable pipes.

The ageing pipes were prone to bursts and leaks, disrupting supply and wasting precious treated drinking water.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD welcomed news of a more reliable water supply for Campile. (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD welcomed news of the completed works. “This is critical news for the people of Campile who will benefit from a more reliable water supply through these upgrades to the pipe network. I want to see more of this. We know that having a reliable water supply is fundamental to family and community life.”

Uisce Éireann’s Dave Murphy is delighted to have delivered another project for customers in Wexford. “This essential work is part of a significant investment by Uisce Éireann to improve the water network across the country, prioritising investment where it is needed most, enabling these communities to thrive.

“We would like to thank the local community for their cooperation and patience during these works, some remaining reinstatement works will be completed in the coming weeks,” said Mr. Murphy.   

Shareridge Ltd. delivered the works on behalf of Uisce Éireann. 

These improvements are all about supporting everyday life in the community, whether it’s putting the kettle on in the morning, running a local business, or keeping community services flowing smoothly with clean, reliable water. 

This project was delivered as part of Uisce Éireann’s national Leakage Reduction Programme. The upgraded water network now brings greater reliability to homes and businesses in Campile.   

Additional weekday trains between Gorey and Dublin

GOREY RAIL STATION (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh

Independent Gorey councillor Joe Sullivan is urging the Minister for Transport to consider a proposal to improve rail links between Gorey and Dublin without laying new track.

The plan would retain existing stations, signalling and rolling stock while providing longer trains during peak periods and requiring minimal capital investment.

Two trains per weekday departing Gorey at 6.30am and 7.30am and departing Dublin Connolly each evening at 4.30pm and 5.30pm and serving Gorey, Arklow and Wicklow is proposed.

Cllr Sullivan told WexfordLocal.com; “Instead of running more trains bigger trains should be used.  A current commuter train generally consists of four carriages, that has capacity for 350- 400 passengers. I would propose a train of eight carriages carrying 700 – 800 passengers.

“This would be seriously cost effective as there is no duplication of drivers, train managers access charges and scheduling. The principle additional costs are rolling stock availability, maintenance and energy consumption,” added Cllr Sulllivan.

Cllr Sullivan states that typical cost of running a car per monthly on a 5-day week working commute from Gorey to Dublin return is approximately €650 – €850. Matters to be considered are fuel, parking, motorway tolls, vehicle wear tear and depreciation.

CLLR JOE SULLIVAN (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

With two trains each morning and evening with capacity of 800 seats each and an operating rate of 80% that gives a total of 1280 passengers going each way creating a total of 2560 individual journeys, giving a monthly revenue generation capacity of 1280 by €250 – €320,000 per month which equals an annual revenue return of €3.8 million. This revenue has the potential to increase if the commuter services are initially successful.

In conclusion, Cllr Sullivan said the proposal offers a practical way to improve rail transport from a rural town such as Gorey, within the capital’s commuter belt. It would make better use of existing infrastructure, increase capacity where demand is proven and support the development of a high-capacity regional commuter service.

Vandalism forces closure of Dunbrody Abbey

By Dan Walsh

Vandals broke into Dunbrody Abbey, near Campile, sometime between Saturday night and early Sunday morning, causing deliberate damage.

A social media statement said: “This was not harmless mischief, but a reckless and disgraceful attack on an important historic site of which we are all proud.”

Those responsible risked their own lives and, through their reckless actions, endangered everyone entering the Abbey.

Following discussions with OPW staff on site, access to the Abbey’s interior has been closed until it is safe to reopen.

The statement said: “We are working closely with the OPW team at the Abbey and thank them for their swift response, support and assistance. We will formally report the incident to An Garda Síochána and hope those responsible are identified and face the full consequences of their actions.”

The Abbey grounds remain open, but entry to the building is strictly prohibited until further notice. Please do not attempt to enter.

The tea rooms and maze remain open as usual.

Could Wexford farms face fodder crisis?

Pictured on their Bunclody farm are David and Janet Rothwell with Fionntán Ó Súilleabhain TD and Francie Gorman, National President of IFA.

By Dan Walsh

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow-Wexford, Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin, has called on the Minister for Agriculture and the Department of Agriculture to begin preparing for a potential fodder crisis as drought conditions continue to severely impact grass growth across County Wexford and other parts of the country.

Speaking from the farm of David and Janet Rothwell near Bunclody, where IFA President Francie Gorman met local farmers to discuss the impact of the drought, Deputy Ó Súilleabháin said Wexford farmers are facing increasing pressure as feed costs rise and fodder stocks come under strain.

“While many people are enjoying the fine weather, farmers across Wexford are dealing with the serious consequences of prolonged dry conditions. Grass growth has stalled, many farmers are already feeding silage intended for winter use, and there is growing concern that stocks cannot be replenished before the end of the season.”

Deputy Ó Súilleabháin said some farmers are being forced to increase concentrate feeding or house livestock earlier than planned, adding significantly to farm costs.

“The main concern now is winter fodder supplies. Farmers are using reserves earlier than expected, and if conditions do not improve in the coming weeks, there could be serious challenges ahead.”

The Wicklow-Wexford TD supported the IFA’s call for the immediate reconvening of the National Fodder and Food Security Committee.

“The Minister must act now and be prepared for a potential fodder crisis next spring. Reconvening the National Fodder and Food Security Committee is an important first step to assess fodder stocks, monitor the situation closely, and ensure supports are available if needed,” concluded Deputy Ó Súilleabháin.

Enniscorthy honours greyhound racing memories

Cllr Pat Kehoe, Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, who launched the Memory Wall; Marguerite Furlong, Chairperson, Enniscorthy Greyhound Stadium; and Fr. Tom Dalton, Adm, St. Aidan’s Parish, who performed the official blessing pictured at Enniscorthy Greyhound Stadium on Monday night. (Pic; Brendan Kirwan Photography).

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Greyhound Stadium

Enniscorthy Greyhound Stadium has officially opened its new “plaques memory wall” under the judge’s box at the top of the stand to “remember all who have passed through the Showgrounds.”

Cllr Pat Kehoe, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, officially launched the memorial during Monday night’s racing programme.

Marguerite Furlong, Chairperson of Enniscorthy Greyhound Stadium, laid a wreath in honour of past supporters, while Fr Tom Dalton, Adm of St Aidan’s Parish, led prayers in their memory.

The well-attended event drew many families with long-standing ties to the track.

Each race on the eight-race card honoured the founding directors who established the track in August 1933.

Plaques space is available; contact the Enniscorthy Greyhound Track office. All proceeds will support the Oak Ward at nearby St John’s Community Hospital.

The Oak Ward cares for 26 long stay residents with complex needs ranging in age from 66 to 103 years. The majority are males who have contributed to the Enniscorthy community through work, sport and music and Track Manager Bridget Whelan told WexfordLocal.com; “We are pleased that some of them have joined us this evening to celebrate this memorable night.”

Enniscorthy Stadium is renowned for hosting community groups and charity events from across Co. Wexford, with highly successful Race Nights.

Racing is held every Monday and Thursday.

Major blaze at Enniscorthy tyre centre

Major fire at Hendrick Tyre Centre seen from Irish Street across the River Slaney this evening. (Pic; Seamus Casey)

By Dan Walsh in Enniscorthy

Five Wexford Fire Service units are tackling a major blaze at Hendrick Tyre Centre Ltd in the Templeshannon area of Enniscorthy this evening.

The fire was reported at 7.20pm, prompting emergency services to rush to the scene.

Thick black smoke billowed into the air, and two hours later firefighters using a turntable ladder were still battling the blaze.

Crews are expected to remain at the scene overnight.

The road between St. Senan’s Road and Templeshannon is closed, with diversions in place.

There are disruptions to electricity services and the ESB are on scene working on the restoration of power for businesses and residences.

Hendrick Tyre Centre fire at Enniscorthy. (Pic; Seamus Casey).

Clear round for Michaelí in €1m Grand Prix 

By Dan Walsh

Camolin-born rider Lt. Michaelí Byrne on MSH Claregalway became the first female member of the Irish Army Equitation School to compete in the €1 million Rolex Grand Prix of Ireland at the Gallagher Dublin Horse Show where she finished fourth in the jump off.  

Lieutenant Michaeli Byrne

The 11 years old Irish Sport Horse mare is owned by the Minister for Defence. It was Michaelí’s first time first time to ride in the international classic at the RDS, but it was impossible to tell, as the pair jumped a brilliant clear round to secure a place in the jump-off.

Michaelí and MSH Claregalway jumped clear in a slightly slower time of 44.27 to earn them fourth place.

Speaking afterwards, the delighted Wexford rider said; “It’s my first ever Dublin international, and this year has been a big year for us. We jumped our first senior Nations Cup and she’s really been on a roll since then.

“Today I was more trying to have a good round and use it as good experience, but she jumped her heart out, as she does, and then with the 100-year anniversary, the timing is lovely. I couldn’t be prouder of my mare,” she concluded.

Lt. Michaelí Byrne (29) achieved her career ambition when assigned to the Army Equitation School following the commissioning ceremony of the 96th cadet class at Collins Barracks, Dublin, in March 2021.

From Butterfly Farm, Raheen, near Camolin, Michaelí was the winner of the Mo Chroi four-year-old championship final at the 2019 Dublin Horse Show with the Capri van Overis Z mare Boleybawn Bella, then owned by Ronan Rothwell and Ger O’Neill. The mare’s dam, HHS Anna (by Andiamo Z), was purchased by Rothwell from Brendan Doyle and Tommy Kennedy when she was in foal with Boleybawn Bella.

Michaelí held an ambition to turn her childhood hobby into a career in the equestrian world and took the first steps when she was accepted into the Army Equitation School (founded in 1926 to promote Ireland and the Irish horse) in the autumn of 2019.

It was the first time in the history of the Army Equitation School that three female equitation officers competed for the Army in the same year.

Calls to abolish hospital parking charges

By Dan Walsh

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow–Wexford Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin has called for a funded plan to phase out hospital parking charges, arguing that patients and families should not have to pay to access healthcare.

According to Deputy Ó Súilleabháin figures provided by the HSE in response to a Parliamentary Question by Sinn Féin’s Spokesperson on Health, David Cullinane TD, show that hospital car parking income at Wexford General Hospital rose from €184,961 in 2022 to €303,846 in 2025 – a 64% increase.

FIONNTÁN Ó SÚILLEABHÁIN TD

Deputy Ó Súilleabháin said told WexfordLocal.com: “Hospital car parking charges are a charge on being sick and visiting families and friends in hospital.

“No one chooses to be sick or to have a sick child in hospital. Yet patients and families in County Wexford are being asked to pay these charges repeatedly.

“People with disabilities, carers and families visiting loved ones in hospital are also being hit.

“The amount being raised through hospital parking has increased dramatically. Hospitals should not have to depend on money collected from sick people and their families.

“We need a funded plan to phase these charges out. The Government should provide replacement funding as charges are phased out, while ensuring hospital parking remains available for patients and visitors,” concluded Deputy Ó Súilleabháin.

Tiny Little Library launches at Wexford General Hospital

Pictured at the Tiny Little Library at Wexford General Hospital, provided by Wexford Libraries, were Aileen Kehoe, Nuria Tasies, Yvonne Smith (Senior Executive Librarian), Caroline Manley, Laura Hanley, Theresa Kelly (Librarian), Mary O’Shea, Angel Chege and Libi Rachel Sam. (Pic; Jim Campbell).

By Dan Walsh

The Tiny Little Library at the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) in Wexford General Hospital has been launched bringing the power of stories, language, and connection to some of the county’s smallest and most vulnerable babies.

Tiny Little Library is an innovative partnership between Wexford Library Service and the neonatal team at Wexford General Hospital.

The initiative provides a collection of carefully selected books that parents can read aloud to their premature and hospitalised babies, helping families bond during what can be a challenging and emotional time.

The Tiny Little Library collection in Wexford SCBU will give families access to specially chosen books designed to be read aloud, creating opportunities for comfort, connection and communication from the earliest days of life.

The initiative also links families with their local public library, ensuring continued access to books, resources and support after their baby returns home.

Cathaoirleach Cllr. Lisa McDonald said: “Tiny Little Library provides a simple but powerful way for parents to spend time with their baby, using their voice, stories and books to nurture connection, comfort and development. We are delighted to work with Wexford General Hospital SCBU on this worthwhile initiative.”

Yvonne Smith, Senior Executive Librarian said: “A love of reading starts with a shared story. We are proud to support families in the SCBU with this Tiny Little Library, where every book opens a world of possibilities. This Tiny Little Library is a celebration of reading, family, and the power of books to comfort, inspire, and connect us.”

Caroline Manley, SCBU, Wexford General Hospital said: “Every interaction matters for babies in neonatal care. Reading aloud gives parents a meaningful role in their baby’s care journey while supporting early communication and bonding. We are delighted to partner with Wexford Library Service on this important initiative.”

Tiny Little Library builds on successful programmes already operating in some neonatal units around Ireland as a partnership with hospitals and public libraries to support families from the very start of their child’s life through books, language and relationships.