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.
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