WexfordLocal.com

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.

Enniscorthy recalls 200 years of the Presentation Sisters

**BISHOP GER NASH and SR ANN-MARIE QUINN planting a commemorative tree in the grounds of St. Aidan’s Cathedral marking 200 years of the Presentation Sisters Order first arrival at Enniscorthy.** (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

By Dan Walsh in Enniscorthy

Bishop Ger Nash led the events at Enniscorthy this afternoon celebrating The Presentation Sisters Order – 250 years since the foundation in Cork, 200 years since arrival in Enniscorthy and 25 years since the Order closed its Enniscorthy Convent.

Bishop Nash welcomed everyone to “the sacred space where Sisters were laid to rest after their ministry to the people of the town and district” at the Nuns Graveyard in the Orchard Peace Park where the first Patron was held in 2008.

There are 60 nuns buried in the former convent walled garden, five nuns are buried in the Presentation Sisters Plot in St. Mary’s Cemetery and others who ministered in Enniscorthy are buried elsewhere including the Presentation Convent in Wexford town.

The Blessing of Graves was performed by Bishop Nash, Rev. Billy Caulfield recited the Rosary, Readings were done by Deacon Dermot Davis, Maria Duggan and Miriam Doyle, while Adrian Doyle, organist at St. Aidan’s Cathedral was soloist for the ceremonial occasion attended by retired Sisters and a large congregation of local supporters.

**Bishop Ger Nash speaking at the Blessing of Graves ceremony at the Presentation Sisters’ graveyard in Enniscorthy**. (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

Bishop Nash and members of the Sisters, including locals Sr. Ann-Marie Quinn and Sr. Imelda Wickham, planted a tree in the grounds of St. Aidan’s Cathedral to commemorate the historic occasion before bringing the ceremonies to a conclusion with Mass in St. Aidan’s Cathedral celebrated by Fr. James Cullen and Fr. Billy Caulfield with the assistance of Deacon Dermot Davis.

The proceedings had begun with refreshments and a meeting and greeting session in the Presentation Centre.

Enniscorthy Municipal District Council was represented by Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach, and Cllr Pat Kehoe.

Chapel and residence of the Presentation Order on Nunnery Road. This image is reproduced from the publication; “Enniscorthy 1846-1946) Souvenir of the Consecration and Centenary of Saint Aidan’s Cathedral” Published June 1946. (Pic; *Crane & Co.*)

HISTORY; In 1826, at the request of Bishop James Keating, Mother de Sales Devereux and Sr. Mary Joseph Rossiter arrived from the Presentation Convent in Wexford to establish a convent in Enniscorthy.

Bishop Keating allowed them to reside in his residence on Weafer Street, it was then known as New Street and the building was on the junction with Lymington Road and Pig Market Hill, nowadays, beside the HOPE Centre building!

On July 18^th 1826, the Bishop, in the tiny chapel of this temporary convent, celebrated the first Mass and Mother de Sales Devereux was appointed Superioress. They remained there for 14 years.

On April 16^th, 1839, the foundation stone for the new convent on Convent (Nunnery) Road was laid and the Sisters moved in on July 1^st, 1840. A Gothic style chapel was added in 1859.

In 1960, St. Joseph’s Presentation Convent School was opened and the school catered for 720 students.

In 1994 with the amalgamation of Presentation Primary School and CBS Primary School, St. Aidan’s Parish School was established with Peter Creedon as Principal.

The convent closed for the last time on July 29th, 2001, and the remaining nuns moved to other Presentation Convents. There were ten nuns living in the convent at the time of its closure.

John G Murphy retires from Tirlán Board

By Dan Walsh

Tirlán Co‐operative Society Limited (“Tirlán Co‐op”) has confirmed that John G. Murphy has announced his intention to retire from the Board of the Co‐operative.

Craanford, Co. Wexford native John has made a significant contribution to Tirlán over many years, serving on the Co-op Board since 2010 and as Chairperson from October 2020 to May 2026. He has also served as a Director on the Glanbia plc Board since June 2010.

During his tenure, he provided strong leadership through a period of substantial transformation for the organisation, including the successful completion of the Co‐op’s strategic evolution and the return to full ownership by farmer members.

Chairperson Gerard O’Brien said: “On behalf of Tirlán Co-op, I would like to thank the outgoing Board Member John G. Murphy for his leadership and dedication to his role especially as Chairperson for the five and a half years. He presided over a period of transformational change for the organisation, culminating in farmers returning to full ownership of the Irish business and very significant value distribution to our Co-op’s Members. He can be extremely proud of his contribution as a Board Member and as a Chairperson of the Tirlán Board.”

A process will now commence in line with Tirlán Co-op Rules and election procedures to appoint a Board Director to represent the North Wexford/East Wicklow region.

Tirlán Co‐op will keep Members informed of developments as this process progresses.