Prayers and emotion amongst parishioners

Bishop Ger Nash pictured with this year’s Jubilarians in The Diocese of Ferns. 415 years of priestly ministry combined. (Left to Right); Fr Jim Curtis (Diamond), Fr. Michael Byrne, Fr. Joe Kavanagh, Fr. Martin Casey, Fr. Thady Doyle and Fr. Bernard Cushen (Golden), Fr. Brian Broaders and Fr. Don Kenny (Ruby) and Fr. Robert McGuire (Silver). Missing from photo are Fr. Willie Howell (Golden) and Fr. Dick Hayes (Diamond). Pic; Diocese of Ferns.

By Dan Walsh

Recently announced clerical changes have been made in the Diocese of Ferns in response to the needs of the new Pastoral Areas and these changes are effective from next weekend, July 13-14th.

But this weekend is particularly emotional in many parishes across the Diocese as pastor and parishioners sever a friendship and move to pastures new. It is particularly distressing for large numbers of parishioners across the Diocese to accept that the day of always having a parish priest is no longer a reality.

As we see from the published list of changes (first published on WexfordLocal.com on June 10th – and receiving almost 9,000 views on this website alone – the future in our churches will require priests to serve several pastoral areas simultaneously. It is a daunting task, it is a burden unfair to share for many, but we live in challenging times and wish them all well.  

The new appointments are as follows;   

Fr. Sean Devereux Cushinstown appointed as Co-PP to the Pastoral area of Bunclody-Ferns-Kilrush and assigned to Ferns.

Fr. John Byrne Oylegate appointed as Co-PP to the Pastoral area of Bunclody-Ferns-Kilrush and assigned to Bunclody.

Fr. Paddy Banville Enniscorthy Pastoral Area appointed as Co-PP to the Pastoral Area of Gorey-Camolin-Craanford-Riverchapel and assigned to Craanford.

Fr. James Cullen Wexford appointed as Co-PP to the Pastoral area of St. Senans-St. Aidans-Marshalstown and assigned to Marshalstown.

Fr Michael Doyle Templetown appointed as Co-PP to the Pastoral area Imeall na Screige and assigned to Oulart/Ballaghkeene.

Fr Dermot Gahan returning from Indiana, USA and appointed as Co-PP to the pastoral area Castlebridge-Crossabeg-Oylegate and assigned to Oylegate/Glenbrien.

Fr Brian Whelan Craanford appointed as Co-PP to the Pastoral Area New Ross-Cushinstown-Adamstown-Newbawn and assigned to New Ross.

Fr. Roger O’ Neill Gorey appointed  as Co-PP to  the  Pastoral Area New Ross-Cushinstown-Adamstown-Newbawn  and assigned to Cushinstown.

Fr. Tom Orr New Ross appointed as Co-PP to the Pastoral Area Horeswood-Ramsgrange-Duncannon-Templetown-Ballycullane and assigned to Duncannon and Templetown.

Fr. Paddy Browne, Oulart appointed as Co-PP to the Pastoral Area Wexford-Clonard-Glynn-Piercestown and assigned to Wexford.

Fr. Odhran Furlong Chaplain in Wexford General Hospital to assist in the Pastoral area of Bannow-Clongeen-Taghmon-Rathangan in addition to his duties in the Hospital.

Fr. David Murphy, Chaplain to the Defence Forces to assist in the Pastoral area of Tagoat-Kilrane-Our Lady’s Island-Kilmore-Ballymore in addition to his duties with the Defence Forces.

Baginbun Beach is safe for public use

By Dan Walsh

The DO NOT SWIM notices issued for Baginbun Beach last Thursday have been withdrawn with immediate effect.

In a short statement tonight Wexford County Council informed WexfordLocal.com that the results of the repeat bathing water samples at Baginbun fall within the acceptable standards.

Following consultation with the HSE, Wexford County Council is now lifting the bathing prohibition with immediate effect.

Mayor Lawlor leads fight on gum litter

Leading the way at the Gum Litter Taskforce Summer Roadshow in Wexford town today were (left to right);  Mummy Mokgalo, Wexford Tidy Towns, Cllr George Lawlor Mayor of Borough District of Wexford and Siliudile Zulu, Wexford Tidy Towns.

By Dan Walsh

The Gum Litter Taskforce (GLT) Summer Roadshow took to the streets of Wexford today and leading by example was the Mayor of Wexford, Cllr George Lawlor, showing the way with fun and engaging education and awareness initiatives in the fight against gum litter.

Mayor Lawlor welcomed the Roadshow which he said; “is a fantastic initiative to raise awareness of the negative impacts of gum litter and encourages all to dispose of gum litter responsibly and to continue to protect our local environment.” He added; “The reduction of gum litter in recent years demonstrates the success of the campaign and I hope this year’s campaign will continue to further encourage positive changes in people’s behaviour towards gum litter.”

Now in its 17th year, the GLT campaign travels across the country, working with local authorities to host its Summer Roadshow, which promotes responsible gum disposal by highlighting the environmental impacts of gum and general litter.

Gum Litter Campaign Manager, Avril Donlon of Food Drink Ireland said; “We are delighted to launch the 2024 Gum Litter Taskforce campaign with the support of the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications. The results of the campaign are evident, and we are thrilled that 1 in 4 people state the GLT campaign as the reason for deterring them from littering gum.”

In September, the Gum Litter Taskforce’s Bin It! education programme will travel across the country and deliver 60 performances a year to primary and secondary schools nationwide, with the ambition to visit 180 schools by 2025. This is in addition to useful lesson plan material that has been made available to almost 730 schools across Ireland.

Ferns Boil Water notice remains in place

By Dan Walsh

Customers impacted by the Ferns Public Water Supply Boil Water Notice issued on June 28th were informed by Uisce Éireann this afternoon that it will remain in place until further notice. 

This notice was issued as a precautionary measure to protect the health of approximately 1,723 customers due to the detection of cryptosporidium in the water supply.

All consumers affected by this notice must boil their water before drinking.  

Dan McCartan, Uisce Éireann Assets Operations Lead, told WexfordLocal.com; “Public health is Uisce Éireann’s number one priority and we would like to assure customers that the notice has been put in place to protect their wellbeing. Our compliance and operations experts are on site and are working to lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible. We understand the impact a Boil Water Notice (BWN) has on the local community and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on Boil Water Notices. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.

Many tributes to Enniscorthy’s Henry Goff

By Dan Walsh

Enniscorthy is mourning the sad passing of academic, historian, teacher, GAA community and family man, Henry Goff, Templeshannon.

HENRY GOFF

Many tributes are being paid. Official Wexford GAA posted; “Deepest sympathy to the Goff family and Shamrocks GAA club on the sad passing of Henry Goff, who was a member of the Wexford senior hurling team that won the National Hurling League title in 1973, and father of current Shamrocks player Harry.”

Enniscorthy Shamrocks GAA Club expressed “our deepest condolences to the family of Henry Goff, Templeshannon, Enniscorthy on his recent passing.
Henry was a very proud Shamrocks man and had a long association with the club as a top class forward and manager. His contribution to all things to do with promoting the club were always highly valued by all. A true gentleman in every sense who will be sadly missed by family and friends. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam“.

Educated in Enniscorthy at Mercy Convent, CBS Primary and Secondary Schol and St. Peter’s College of Education, Maynooth, were he received a Teaching Diploma in 1966, and having qualified as a teacher Mr. Goff worked at schools in Rathnure 1966-’67), Caim (1967-’69), Donnycarney CBS (1972) and Ballindaggin (1972-’79) and served as Principal of St. Senan’s Primary School, Enniscorthy, from 1979 until his retirement 32 years later in 2011.

He was a keen historian and most knowledgeable in the history of his native town and the events of the 1916 Rising in Enniscorthy and the 1798 Rebellion. He contributed to many journals and lectured at seminars and conferences over many years.

He also held a strong interest in local politics and served as a Fianna Fáil member on Enniscorthy Urban District Council and proudly served as Chairman in 1978.

FAMILY NOTICE; HENRY GOFF, St. Kevin’s, Templeshannon, Enniscorthy, July 4, 2024 peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. Dearly loved husband of Bridie, loving father of Ciaran, Fiona, Orla, Harry and Eimear, much loved brother of Chrissie, Pat, Anne, Eileen and the late Noel and cherished son of the late Patsy and Mary Ellen.

Sadly missed by his loving family, sons-in-law Patrick, Fabio and Patrick, daughters-in-law Julie and Lynn, his adored grandchildren, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. May he Rest in Peace.

Reposing in Browne’s Funeral Home, Enniscorthy today (Friday) from 3 o’clock until 7 o’clock. Funeral arriving at St. Senan’s Parish Church, Enniscorthy on Saturday for his Funeral Mass at 12 noon. Burial afterwards in Enniscorthy Cemetery.

Ban on bathing at Baginbun Beach

By Dan Walsh

Testing conducted as part of Wexford County Council’s normal monitoring of bathing water quality showed elevated levels of E. Coli bacteria at Baginbun Beach where ‘Do Not Swim’ notices have been issued.

In a statement issued a short time ago, Wexford County Council said; “Following consultation with the HSE, it is necessary to issue ‘Do Not Swim’ warning notices at the above beach (Baginbun) in accordance with the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 and in the interest of public health.”

Further samples were taken today (Thursday) and results are expected on Saturday at which stage the bathing notices will be reviewed. Wexford County Council’s Technical Team are investigating the matter.

Talk on history of WWII in County Wexford

By Dan Walsh

If the history of the Second World War is of interest, the Gorey Library is the place to be on Thursday from 6pm when historian Michael Rowley delivers an interesting talk titled WWII German Luftwaffe in County Wexford 1940-’41.

This event will focus on the crashes of WW2 German Luftwaffe aircraft in south County Wexford in the 1940-’41 period, featuring some incidents in the Gorey area.

Arrive early from 6pm to view the exhibition of original WWII artefacts Michael will be discussing and displaying for the event.

Then join historian Michael for his talk at 7pm with questions and answers to follow.

Booking is required. This can be done through gorey.library@wexfordcoco.ie or calling Gorey Library on 053 9483820.

Gorey ‘welcomes home’ Euro champ Kayleigh

By Dan Walsh

European bronze winner KAYLEIGH BYRNE in Sarajevo. (Pic; Gorey Boxing Club)

There was a carnival atmosphere in the popular Willow Park estate in Gorey last evening as large numbers of family, friends, supporters and admirers turned out in celebration to welcome home the new super hero in the boxing ring, the talented Kayleigh Byrne.

Featherweight Kayleigh brought the first ever international medal to Gorey Boxing Club when she took bronze for Ireland in the 2024 European Junior Championships in Sarajevo, Bosnia.

Team Ireland, who brought home two gold and five bronze medals from the championships also included Kalib Walsh from Wexford CBS who also secured a bronze medal.

World dance stars create Fleadh buzz at Enniscorthy

World Irish dance champions, the Gardiner Brothers, Michael and Matthew, met Claire Lawless, Enniscorthy District Manager and Cllr Mary Farrell, Gorey-Kilmuckridge District on their sensational visit to Enniscorthy promoting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann coming to Wexford Town August 4th-12th.

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy

Enniscorthy was buzzing with excitement as the town  played host to the internationally renowned TikTok sensations, The Gardiner Brothers, in a spectacular Fringe Fleadh event in advance of the official Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann set to take place in Wexford Town from August 4th-12th.

In a series of toe tapping performances, The Gardiner Brothers, Michael and Matthew, professional Irish dancers with five world titles to their credit and known for their innovative and energetic Irish dance routines, thrilled the crowds at three iconic Enniscorthy landmarks. Their dance on the storied slopes of Vinegar Hill captured the essence of Irish heritage and rebellion, resonating deeply with both locals and visitors.

The historic Enniscorthy Castle provided a majestic backdrop as the brothers’ rhythmic steps captivated their audiences. The performances culminated in a vibrant meet-and-greet at The Market Square, where fans of all ages had the opportunity to connect with the stars, take selfies, and even learn a few dance moves.

Claire Lawless, District Manager of Enniscorthy Municipal District, expressed her delight at the success of the event: “We are thrilled to have hosted The Gardiner Brothers for this unique Fringe Fleadh event. Their performances have brought an extraordinary energy to Enniscorthy, showcasing our town’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit. This event has set a wonderful tone for the upcoming Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August.”

The magic continued all weekend in New Ross who hosted a foot stomping three-day festival in The Library Park with the Magic Feet Irish Dance Troupe, Remembering Ronnie Drew with Phelim Drew, and acclaimed Irish violinist Zoe Conway and traditional fiddler John McIntyre captivating audiences.

There was plenty of Cheoil agus Craic in Cahore with a huge crowd gathering to enjoy The Wild Turkeys outside The Strand on Cahore Pier.

The Fringe Fleadh events around the district marks an exciting prelude to the larger celebrations set for Wexford Town, promising an unforgettable summer of Irish music, dance, and cultural festivities.

For more information about the upcoming Fringe Fleadh events, visit http://www.visitwexford.ie/fringefleadh

40 young artists ‘keeping Wexford beautiful’

By Dan Walsh

Young artists from Co. Wexford schools received their awards for the Wexford County Council Annual Artwork Competition 2024 in the County Hall, Wexford, recently.

The theme of this year’s competition was ‘The Wildlife of Hedgerows.’ Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, presented prizes to 40 school children representing both primary and secondary schools.

The overall winner from Primary Schools was Ella Dundon, Our Lady of Lourdes National School, Bunclody and the overall winner from Secondary Schools was Júlía Ásmundsdóttir of Colaiste an Átha Kilmuckridge. The winning artwork was displayed in County Hall.

Prizes were also presented for the Snap into Action Competition, which is open to both schools and community groups. This competition encourages people from all walks of life to act against litter.

CLLR PIP BREEN, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, presented the prizes at the Annual Artwork Competition focus on diversity and the environment, File Pic; WexfordLocal.com

Kilmyshall National School received first prize in the Snap into Action School Competition and received a prize for €500. Wexford Educate Together National School and Caim National School were presented with runner up award of €250.

Enniscorthy Tidy Towns were the winners in the Snap into Action Community Group Competition and received a prize of €500. Tomhaggard Clean Coasts Group and Kilmuckridge Tidy Towns were presented with runners-up awards of €250.

Cllr Pip Breen stated “that the aim of the competition was to raise awareness of the importance of Wexford’s environment and to encourage all to explore its uniqueness as something to be valued and cherished. Hedgerows are precious habitats made up of native trees, shrubs, and flowers. They form a network of wildlife corridors across our landscape, providing food and shelter for insects, birds, and mammals.”

“The artwork displayed here today reminds, us all to look after our environment, a precious legacy for generations to come. We all have a role to play in learning more about biodiversity and protecting the natural heritage of Wexford,” said Cllr Breen, who thanked Don Conroy for providing the colouring sheet and thanked Wexford Naturalists’ Field Club for supporting the competition and sponsoring birdboxes.

Cllr Breen congratulated all involved and praised the groups for all their voluntary work in ‘Keeping Wexford Beautiful’.

The artwork competition is an initiative run by the Environment Section of Wexford County Council in conjunction with Wexford Naturalists’ Field Club.