WexfordLocal.com

Enniscorthy retail goes digital

Pictured at the launch of the Enniscorthy Digital Retail scheme at Enniscorthy Castle were (left to right); Cllr Pat Kehoe, Claire Lawless, Enniscorthy District Manager, Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Stephen Hallahan, CEO Tap Retail, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Matt Ronan, Enniscorthy Digital Retail Village member, Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise & Economic Development Wexford County Council and Cllr Trish Byrne. (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Castle

The formal launch of Enniscorthy Digital Retail Village scheme took place in Enniscorthy Castle last night.

District Manager Claire Lawless welcomed the invited attendance and stated that over the past three months retailers have been engaging and learning, and most importantly, growing. “This event is a chance to highlight the progress, to increase awareness and to hear from Tap Retail who are driving it,” said Ms. Lawless.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Joe Sullivan said he was delighted to launch the Enniscorthy Digital Retail Village scheme and acknowledged the attendance of Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllrs Pat Kehoe and Trish Byrne, Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise & Economic Development at Wexford County Council, Stephen Hallahan, Founder and CEO, and Barry Moylan and the team from Tap Retail.

Cllr Sullivan said the scheme unites local businesses on a single digital platform and allows customers to buy from multiple local shops in one single transaction, gives the local businesses the tools they need to grow and offer shoppers new ways to discover and support local retailers. He concluded by encouraging everyone to support local businesses and shopping.

Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy said; “We do everything on our phones and now people are doing a lot of shopping on the phone and having Enniscorthy in the forefront using Tap Retail to be able to use an app to support local businesses and jobs, and to be able to get what you want delivered from a premises here in Enniscorthy is wonderful.”

“It is the way forward and the only thing that is going to keep our towns vibrant,” said Cllr Murphy, who added; “I can’t envisage a town that doesn’t have shops or retail or footfall and the only way forward for people who don’t come into town is to give them the apps to buy online.”

Stephen Hallahan, CEO Tap Retail said; “the vast majority of products that you are looking for online can actually be sourced within the town.” He outlined details of the Tap Retail scheme and claimed; “This is something that is really unique.”

He continued; “This is a market place that makes shopping a little easier for people who have mobility challenges, people who just generally don’t want to get out or people who can’t make it into the town, and the ability to buy from more than one shop.”

Matt Ronan owner of Evolv Health Store and a member of Enniscorthy Digital Retail Village said it has been a great experience working with Stephen and the Tap Retail team. “It could have been stressful, because technology generally brings a lot more stress than it is advertised, put the experience was so positive from day one. Enniscorthy is certainly leading the way and that’s a headline for Enniscorthy in itself.”

In conclusion, Mr Ronan said; “Irish towns are facing a lot of challenges, I do not dismiss that for a moment, however, I do believe that Irish towns have a future. Everything is changing, but we have become customer centric.”

Fourteen businesses have signed up for the scheme, namely Stafford’s Butchers, Evolv Health Store, Gillen’s Café, My Sport, Mahady Breen’s shoe shop, Authentic European Food Shop, Prep and Go, Reid’s Off-Licence, General Office and School Supplies, Meet Brazil, Eason’s Toy Department, Meraki Greek Café, Londis and Pet Depot.

Heritage signage on Vinegar Hill

By Dan Walsh

This week, two heritage signs, designed in the style of the 1916 information sign located opposite the Seamus Rafter Bridge, were officially unveiled on Vinegar Hill.

The signs have been awaiting delivery for some time now and the news was welcomed by members at Tuesday’s monthly meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council held in the Chamber at the Presentation Centre.

The 1998 bicentenary monumental display continues to serve as a public information source and venue for annual wreath-laying ceremonies.

A brief extract from the signage informs visitors to Vinegar Hill that; “On the morning of 21 June, (1798) there were approximately 10,000 Crown Forces in position. The Crown Forces were well armed with cannons and muskets, in comparison to the Rebels who had meagre weapons such as pikes.

“The Rebels’ position ahead of the battle was further weakened by the absence of Edward Roche and re-enforcements from Wexford town, who had yet to arrive. Furthermore, in the weeks leading up to the Battle of Vinegar Hill, the Rebels had made no attempt to make the hill a formidable defensive position.”

“On June 21 at 3 am, the battle commenced. General Johnson commenced artillery bombardment on the Rebel positions on the outskirts of Enniscorthy town, while General Lake commenced artillery bombardment of the Rebel positions on Vinegar Hill. Following intense artillery bombardment Rebel leaders positioned on the outskirts of the town retreated towards the Duffry Gate.

“At 7 am, Lake’s forces commenced infantry assault on the Rebels on Vinegar Hill. By this time the Rebels in the town were engaged in intense house to house fighting with General Johnson’s troops. The Rebels based in the town pulled back over Enniscorthy Bridge and a stalemate ensued. During the stalemate the Rebels and Crown Forces inflicted heavy casualties upon each other.”

For more information contact the National 1798 Rebellion Centre on Parnell Road for exhibits, artefacts and stories. Opens 9.30am.

Repair crews in safety scare

**Horrendous road surface conditions at Esmonde Road. Repairs are prevented by intimidation.** (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Municipal District Council meeting

A section of the road surface on Esmonde Road at Killagoley, Enniscorthy, remains severely damaged following flooding seven or eight weeks ago, and the matter was raised at today’s Enniscorthy Municipal District Council meeting.

The meeting was shocked to learn that road workers assigned to repairs faced physical threats and abuse. Cone signs vanished, and intimidation was reported.

Work crews were withdrawn from the location due to safety concerns.

Despite its worsening condition, the road is still open to traffic.

The Council is investigating and may pursue legal action.

Yacht in trouble off Kilmuckridge

By Dan Walsh

Rosslare Harbour RNLI has come to the assistance of a lone sailor who alerted the Irish Coast Guard that his yacht was in difficulty off the Kilmuckridge coast.

Arriving on scene it was discovered that the yacht had developed engine trouble and, fortunately, the crew were able to fix the problem, and the yacht was able to continue to its destination.

Weather conditions were calm with good visibility at the time.

Speaking following the call out, Jamie Ryan, Rosslare Harbour RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Jamie Ryan complimented all involved: “We would like to commend the sailor for contacting the Coast Guard when they knew they were in difficulty and for having all the necessary safety and communication equipment on board,” he stated.

Welcome for 10-bed Mental Health Unit

By Dan Walsh

Wexford’s Mental Health Working Group has welcomed the commitment by Government Chief Whip and Minister of State at the Department of Health, Mary Butler TD to advance the development of a new 10-bed Specialised Community Mental Health Unit for County Wexford.

Chairperson, Cllr AoifeRose O’Brien said the Group had previously engaged with HSE regional representatives to review the current level of services available in the county.

**CLLR AOIFE ROSE O’BRIEN** (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

“From the outset, it was clear that County Wexford does not have the level of mental health supports available in other counties of comparable size. The absence of a dedicated crisis unit has been felt across families in our county for decades. We have consistently advocated on behalf of our community and strongly demonstrated the urgent need for a specialised crisis unit in Wexford,” stated Cllr O’Brien.

Cllr O’Brien noted that, through collaboration with FDYS, Wexford Mental Health Association and the Public Participation Network (PPN), the Group has been systematically identifying key gaps within existing services.

“Some of the issues highlighted through our engagement process have been deeply concerning. The provision of a 10-bed crisis unit represents the minimum level of service required to begin addressing the longstanding deficits in mental health care in our county,” she added.

The group has written to the Minister seeking clarification on several key matters, including the proposed timeline for the project.

“While we very much welcome this announcement, it is essential that progress now follows without delay. Our county has waited decades for access to an adequate, life-saving crisis facility. It is imperative that this project is delivered efficiently and to the highest standard,” concluded Cllr O’Brien.

From Cheltenham to Ballycrystal

**Local winner Lady Jukebox (Brian Lawless) and Matthew Flynn O’Conner celebrate at Ballycrystal.** (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

By Dan Walsh at Ballycrystal

Cork rider Shane Cotter enjoyed his first success at the Cheltenham Festival and his good run of luck continued today (Sunday) at The Island Hunt fixture at Ballycrystal, Kiltealy, winning the four-year-old maiden race on Ferocimo for his retaining stables, Denis Murphy, Ballyboy, The Ballagh.

There was a local victory in the maiden race for five and six-year-old mares when Lady Jukebox triumphed by two and a half lengths for Matthew Flynn O’Connor. Brian Lawless the successful rider.

Sean Doyle saddled the first and second home in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings – Baz And Stokes (Ross Sugrue) and Riseandcall (Cormac Byrne – separated by one and a half lengths.

Ross Sugrue rode a double when partnering What Path, who made the long journey from North Kerry for Michael Mangan to take the Open Race and will be aimed at a cross country race at the Punchestown Festival in April.

Tipperary owner/trainer Sam Curling has an excellent strike rate at Ballycrystal and he saddled Deplama to win the Winner of One Race ridden by Nicole Lockhead Anderson.

The last race was won by Maison De Balzac ridden by Rob James for Colin Bowe. Bowe was in Ballynoe, Co. Cork, where he recorded a double on the day when the Barry O’Neill ridden newcomer Jurys Verdict scored by three and a half lengths in the maiden race for four-year-olds.

There was also point-to-point action today at Durrow, Co. Laois, where all six winners had Wexford connections. There was a double for Paul Martin Pierce, Blackhall Stud, Killurin, with Colegram in the five-year-old plus mares’ maiden and Sworn Duty in the Winner of One race.

Both of Pierce’s winners were ridden by Meath rider Joey Dunne, who recorded a treble on the day. His third win came aboard Eamonn Doyle’s Mossy Fen King by four lengths in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings.

Foulksmills rider Shane O’Rourke won the first two races for Ballymitty handler Garrett Murphy and the Turbine Syndicate. Sadnhbh’s A Singer in the mares’ four-old-maiden by two and a half lengths and Living in Luxury by one length in the four-year-old geldings maiden race continuing a fairytale season for Garrett Murphy and his team.

Mayglass rider Jack Hendrick teamed up with trainer Tom Dreaper on Rock On Richie in the concluding maiden race at Durrow and romped home by 28 lengths!

Ballindaggin Cormac Byrne was amongst the winners at Kirkistown, Co.Down, yesterday (Saturday) riding City Chief to ‘a head’ victory in the Open Race confined to novice riders.

Next Sunday’s point-to-point is the Bree Hunt races at Monksgrange, Rathnure. First race at 2pm. Entries close on Tuesday.

Island Hunt races at Ballycrystal

By Dan Walsh

An entry of 105 has been received for the Island Hunt point-to-point races at Ballycrystal, Kiltealy tomorrow (Sunday). The first race is at 1pm.

**CORMAC BYRNE winner today at Kirkistown.**

The going is described as “yielding, soft in places” and the forecast is for a dry day up to the time of racing.

The track has a good covering of grass, is well laid out and a good attendance is expected.

Young Ballindaggin rider Cormac Byrne was amongst the winners at Kirkistown, Co. Down, today (Saturday) riding City Chief to ‘a head’ victory in the Open Race confined to novice riders.

Challenges faced by fishing sector

**SEAMUS O’FLAHERTY and CLLR JIM CODD have concerns about the fishing industry and the challenges it faces.** (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

By Dan Walsh at Kilmore Quay

The fishing industry faces challenges from unpredictable weather, reduced EU quotas, and the existence of different quotas for boats using the same fishing grounds.

I visited Kimore Quay today, where there are 23 trawlers and 25 lobster boats. Add the shoreline facilities and fishing supports around 500 jobs and contributes an estimated €35 million to the local economy each year.

Seamus O’Flaherty, part owner of OF Fishing located on the Quay gave an example of quota differences for Area 7a (Irish Sea) for Sole; Belgium 279 tonnes, UK 96 tonnes, Holland 88 tonnes and Ireland 69 tonnes.

Fishers who break the quota rules can find themselves facing criminal charges. Armed Gardaí have conducted raids and searches, taken away computers and other data in searches of offices in Kilmore Quay. “The laws are impossible to comply with, and skippers and trawler owners are regularly before the Central Criminal Court,” stated Mr. O’Flaherty

Recently, an EU fishery patrol boat with Irish, Finnish, and Latvian crew boarded a local vessel from Kilmore Quay about 50 nautical miles off the south coast. They measured cod ends and confiscated them. It is likely that a criminal case will be taken against the skipper.

Then there are problems out a sea. Different boats using the same fishing grounds are subject to different quotas depending on their country of origin.

Cllr Jim Codd, who has been an advocate for the local fishers said you can’t catch Black Sole but if they come up in the nets you can’t throw them back, you must land them and register them and possibly face criminal charges.

Rising fuel prices due to the Middle East war are making it more costly for the fishing industry to deliver fish nationwide.

Cllr Codd noted Kimore Quay’s historic role as a fishing village and urged the government and EU to review the quota system for fairer treatment of Ireland.

Death of boat builder Ron O’Rourke

By Dan Walsh

There is mourning in the Rosslare Harbour district and further afield at news of the death of Ron O’Rourke.

Ron was many things over the course of his life. A seafarer who understood the rhythms and realities of the water.

A skilled boat builder and carpenter whose work quite literally took shape in timber and craft. He built a few boats in recent years.

And a musician, bringing people together in the way that only music can. His party piece was the lifeboat song, ‘Home From The Sea’.

But beyond all of that, he was, first and foremost, a gentleman. The kind of person whose presence was quietly felt, whose knowledge was generously shared, and whose company was genuinely valued by those lucky enough to know him.

Sincere condolences to Ron’s family and friends. Fair winds, following seas and Steady As She Goes to a dear shipmate, Ron.

FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of Ron O’Rourke, Tuskamore Terrace, Rosslare Harbour, Co. Wexford, March 17^th 2026, beloved husband of the late Mary, and loving father of Alan, Eamonn, Brian and Siobhan; brother of the late Molly, Berna and Angela, sadly missed by his family, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, brothers-in-law, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

May He Rest In Peace.

Reposing Mulligans Funeral Home, The Faythe, Wexford, on Friday from 3pm until 6pm. Funeral Mass in St. Patrick’s Church Rosslare Harbour on Saturday at 12noon. Burial afterwards in St. Aidan’s Cemetery Kilrane.

Gorey mourns for Willie Willoughby

By Dan Walsh

The death has occurred of William (Willie) Willoughby, Charlotte Row, Gorey, who is admired for his contribution to the community and was a well-known local historian.

President of the North Wexford Historical Society, Willie was best known for his walking tours of Gorey and his history lectures on Courtown and Gorey’s famous Market House.

He was instrumental in the foundation of Gorey Rugby Club in 1968 and served as President in 1974-’75 seasons.

Willie was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Gorey Awards in 2025.

Over 100 members of the Willoughby families held a gathering in the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey, in September 2010. They travelled from as far away as Prague, Germany, the UK and Northern Ireland.

Willie said he can trace the family’s history back to the 1600s. They originally came to Ireland as stone masons and arrived from Lincolnshire in the 1640s.

FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of William (Willie) Willoughby, The Lodge, Charlotte Row, Gorey, Wexford

Died peacefully on March 17^th 2026 in the loving care of the staff at Gorey District Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

Beloved partner of Phil and loving father of Carol, Trevor, Ruth and Brian, cherished brother of Gladys, Olive and the late Daphne. Will be very sadly missed by his partner, sons daughters, sisters, grandchildren Jack, Luke, Zoe, Georgina, Cloe, partners Michelle and Eddie, brothers-in-law Harry and David, nephew John, nieces Julie and Helen, extended family, relatives and many friends.

“At Rest”

Reposing at Murphy’s Funeral Home, The Avenue, Gorey, on Friday March 20^th from 5 pm. until 8 pm.

A Celebration of Willie’s life will take place at Murphy’s Funeral Home on Saturday, March 21^st at 12 noon followed by the Cortege walking to Market House Main Street Gorey. Cremation will take place privately.