New Ross gets its Town Centre First plan

Pictured (left to right); Eamonn Hore, Deputy Chief Executive Wexford County Council, Liz Hore, Director of Services, Heather Humphreys, Minister for Rural and Community Development, Sean Connick, CEO, Dunbrody Project, Kieran O’Donnell TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Local Government and Planning, Cllr Anthony Connick, Cathaoirleach New Ross Municipal District Council and Mick McCormack, Towns Regeneration Officer, Wexford County Council at the Town Centre First launch held in Adare, Co. Limerick.

By Dan Walsh

The first ever Town Centre First Plans for 26 towns across every county was launched in Adare, Co. Limerick, recently and New Ross was the designated pathfinder town for County Wexford and along with the other pathfinder Towns was officially launched at the event.

The Plans which were developed in consultation with local communities represent the vision of local people for their area and contain proposals for a diverse range of projects such as redeveloping derelict sites, creating community parks and walkways, boosting SME and tourism potential, and protecting historical landmarks.

Cllr Anthony Connick, Cathaoirleach New Ross Municipal District Council and Chair of the New Ross Town Centre First team represented New Ross at the launch along with fellow Town Team member Sean Connick and they were joined by Deputy Chief Executive of Wexford County Council Eamonn Hore, Director of Services with responsibility for Town Centre First, Liz Hore and Town Regeneration Officer Mick Mc Cormack.

Cllr Connick used the launch opportunity to thank the community, businesses and people of New Ross for their input into the Plan and to his fellow councillors and the New Ross Town Centre First team. He also pointed out that this strategic document can be used by business and community groups to strengthen their applications for funding supports and will also be used by Wexford County Council in applying for future funding and was proud to be associated with this urban regeneration plan.

Deputy Chief Executive of Wexford County Council Eamonn Hore was very happy with the plan in place for New Ross and took the opportunity to thank staff, consultants and the people of New Ross for feeding into the Town Centre First process which culminated in a very strong urban regeneration plan.

Cllr Connick is encouraging people to view the plan online and get involved in local community/ development groups and make some of the objectives and projects identified through the plan a reality. “The objective is to make New Ross a more attractive place to work, visit, live and do business and this plan strengthens our hand in achieving this goal,” concluded Cllr Connick.

This Plan was launched locally in December of last year and is available to view on the Wexford County Council website or physical copies can be viewed in the Tholsel or New Ross Library.

Abused councillors unable to defend themselves?

CLLR MICHAEL SHEEHAN was at Leinster House last Thursday.

By Dan Walsh

New Ross district Fianna Fáil Cllr Michael Sheehan has highlighted areas of reform in local government and the need for social media reform when speaking at Seanad Public Consultation Committee’s second public hearing for its consultation on the Future of Local Democracy last Thursday.

Cllr Sheehan was critical in his role as a public representative with his own office since 2009 when he told the hearing that; “I have disputed the fact that councillors must pay rates even though Oireachtas members who have offices, don’t and the support available to councillors does not meet the costs of the office.

“This issue was supposed to be resolved and is in the Programme for Government, but I am now in a situation with the Council that they are looking for their rate payment and we are agreeing to disagree– and are awaiting clarity from the government. I think it unfair as the office is literally full time while it is dealt with as a part time job. We need the support of the Oireachtas Members,” stated Cllr Sheehan.

He continued: “Like many of the previous councillors, I urged the protection of councillors while in the Chamber to discuss issues of sensitivity and commercial interest without being liable or in the recent cases in Co. Wexford being slandered and undermined without any recourse to defend ourselves.

Cllr Sheehan’s alleged that recently, members of Wexford County Council were viciously attacked on the floor of the Oireachtas and could not defend themselves or challenge the speaker.

In conclusion, Cllr Sheehan commented that “there is now an overwhelming need to reform the whole social media industry. He referred to “faceless anonymous accounts and profiles that are literally making stuff up and peddling them as truths”, and goes on to say that “insults, lies, abuse and accusations are now commonplace for councillors and increasingly candidates are now subject to absolute torrent of abuse. He concludes that “the law must be clear and the enforcement clearer on fake accounts, fake news, abuse and targets hated campaign are caught fast and punished faster.”

COMMENT; It is unusual for WexfordLocal.com to comment on our news stories, but a few words are needed here in the interest of fair comment and a more level playing field without malice or vindictiveness, and this is where the discussion ends.

This article is based on a press release issued on Monday.

Discussion in the Oireachtas and in council meetings take place with privilege which applies to contributors and journalists alike.

Finally, WexfordLocal.com is an internationally recognised news website source with full affiliation to the National Union of Journalists and can in no way be associated with allegations of ‘fake news’ and is fully transparent and accountable. DAN WALSH, EDITOR.  

“Get in on the action and join the team!” at Fleadh 2024

WEXFORD TOWN hosts Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 August 4th-11th and is calling for volunteers to lend a hand.

By Dan Walsh

Ahead of the official launch of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, taking place August 4th-11th in Wexford town, the Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee is calling on the people of Wexford to volunteer and become part of the world-acclaimed programme of traditional Irish language and music events.

The Fleadh is coming to the sunny southeast and over half a million visitors are expected to visit Wexford this August to celebrate Irish culture. With such unprecedented numbers visiting the county, there is a real need for volunteers who can help during the Fleadh week, with many opportunities to lend a hand.

Cathaoirleach of the Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee and Interim Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, Eddie Taaffe, told WexfordLocal.com; “We are thrilled to welcome Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Wexford this summer. It was clear from the start that Comhaltas Ceóltoirí Éireann and Wexford County Council share a mutual vision for the joy that is traditional Irish music and culture. The Fleadh will bring life and music to our streets in a very inclusive way that all can enjoy.  

EDDIE TAAFFE. Cathaoirleach of the Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee and Interim Chief Executive of Wexford County Council

“We are working together towards a truly memorable Fleadh Cheoil in August. In addition to the visible, structural supports being put in place, the people are a key part of the process.  

“Volunteers are the heart of the Fleadh and will be instrumental in welcoming the world to Wexford. We are recruiting volunteers from all over our great county to lend a hand,” said Mr Taaffe, who added; “By volunteering, people can make lasting connections with fellow volunteers, performers, and traditional Irish music lovers from across the globe while being a key part of this landmark event for County Wexford.”

Volunteers will be asked to fill several roles, including street stewards, assisting at competitions, members of the environmental /sustainability committee, Fleadh Ambassadors, volunteering at concerts, social media support, photography support and other support roles for the Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee.

The Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee welcomes everyone to sign up as volunteers for the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024! The slogan is; “Get in on the action and join the team!” The volunteer registration opens on Friday 8th March at 12 noon’ .For more information and to sign up as a volunteer for the Wexford Fleadh Cheoil 2024, visit www.fleadhcheoil.ie

€30,000 funding for Courtown Riverchapel

By Dan Walsh

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys has announced that Wexford County Council has been awarded €30,000 to complete a Town Centre First Plan for Courtown/Riverchapel.

The allocation for work in Courtown/Riverchapel is the first announcement on a suite of supports that will be available to County Wexford under the Town Centre First initiative. Wexford County Council will be applying for further funding in the coming weeks under this suite of supports for town and villages around the county. 

CLLR PIP BREEN, Cathaoirleach Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council.

Welcoming the news Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District, believes this is a great opportunity to move Courtown/Riverchapel forward and is looking forward to the collaboration that informs a Town Centre First Plan. 

“This €30,000 will help Courtown/Riverchapel achieve its full potential and place it in a strong position for future national regeneration funding streams. The purpose of the plan is to engage communities to articulate a coherent vision for their town and working together it can be of great benefit to the area,” concluded Cllr Breen.

Director of Services with responsibility for Town Centre First, Liz Hore, and Town Regeneration Officer, Mick McCormack both welcomed the news and after completing Town Centre First Plans in both New Ross and Enniscorthy the regeneration unit working in collaboration with the community and Wexford County Council multidisciplinary Town Centre First team would be drawing on the lessons, learnings and experience of the first plans and aim to put a plan that best reflects the needs and ambitions of Courtown/Riverchapel.

Doyle and Byrne winners at Borris House

By Dan Walsh at Borris House

Two Wexford stables were successful at today’s (Sunday) Carlow Farmers Foxhounds point-to-point held in bright sunshine at picturesque Borris House against the backdrop of partially snow-covered Mount Leinster.

ELLEN DOYLE another winner at Borris House today.

Ellen Doyle landed on her 49th career winner and sixth of the current season when Bride Rovers ridden by Frankie Murphy scored by three lengths in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings. Doyle’s other runner in this race, Jardin D’Ebene (Brian Dunleavy up) was leading to the last where the partnership parted.

John C. Byrne who trains at Ballygangans, Kilmore, saddled Full of Life in the maiden for five-year-old and upwards mares and was delighted with an impressive eight lengths victory. Jack Hendrick was in the saddle and this was a 70th career victory for the Mayglass rider.

The famous emerald green and orange hoops colours of JP McManus were carried to success by veteran and former champion rider Derek O’Connor by Shuffle The Deck in the maiden race for four-year-olds.

Native Song in the colours of Mark Walsh and handled by Paul Kiely, Dungarvan, took the Winners of Two race confined to mares, ridden by James Murphy, beating Lady Mags handled by Pat Doyle, Courtown, and ridden by Oulart rider Bertie Finn by five lengths.

Johnny Hurley from Cork saddled Can Daddy Dance ridden by Mike Kenneally who scored by ‘half-a-length’ in the gelding’s race confined to novice riders.

John ‘Shark’ Hanlon from Bagenalstown won the final race of the day with Getaway King ridden by Rob James, Killanne. Hanlon had earlier paraded his ‘wonder horse’ Hewick in front of the large crowd ahead of his plans for Cheltenham and Aintree in the coming weeks.

Also point-to-point action today (Sunday) at Ballycahane, Co. Limerick, where Ballycrystal, Kiltealy handler Matthew Flynn O’Connor enjoyed a double success with two newcomers. Pierriot Jaguen by six lengths in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings and The Big Westerner by two lengths in the mare’s maiden race for five-year-olds plus. Both were ridden by Brian Lawless.

No success for Wexford stables at Tyrella in Co. Down yesterday (Saturday) but Cleariestown rider Barry Stone was given the mount on Gone With The Tide by Piltown handler David O’Brien in the maiden race for five and six year old geldings and the partnership celebrated afterwards following a two and a half lengths victory.

Ballycogley tops at Kilmuckridge Drama Festival.

BALLYCOGLEY PLAYERS are celebrating following success at the Kilmuckridge Drama Festival which closed last night.

By Dan Walsh

Ballycogley Players in the Open section and Kilrush Drama Group in the Confined section are the winners from the 65th Kilmuckridge Drama Festival which concluded its 8-night successful run in the KMH last night (Saturday).

It was an exciting result for Ballycogley Players and their play Out of Order and they also picked up four awards; Pat Whelan (Best Director), Catherine Stafford (Best Costumes), Pat Mernagh (Best Actor) and Sean Carthy (Best Supporting Actor).

Kilrush Drama Group are in celebratory mood having been chosen by adjudicator Geoff O’Keeffe as winners in the Confined Section with their play Hooked directed by Niall McGrath.

RESULTS; OPEN Section; 1st, Ballycogley Players; 2nd, Bridge Drama; 3rd, Balally Players. CONFINED Section; 1st, Kilrush Drama Group; 2nd, The Wayside Players Drama Group; 3rd, Kilmuckridge Drama Group.

New Chief Executive will soon be appointed

By Dan Walsh

A new Chief Executive of Wexford County Council will be appointed later this year when the public appointments service completes a competitive recruitment process. 

Whilst that process is underway, Eddie Taaffe, Director of Services will serve as Interim Chief Executive at the local authority.

With outgoing Chief Executive Tom Enright gone from the role after a decade, his successor has been appointed, albeit on a temporary basis.

EDDIE TAAFFE Acting Chief Executive at Wexford County Council

Having only returned to Wexford last year following a three- year secondment with the National Housing Delivery Office in Dublin, Eddie Taaffe has been promoted from Director of Services to Acting Chief Executive of Wexford County Council.

A native of Rossbercon, New Ross, Mr Taaffe first started working with the local authority back in 1997, working in the environment section, roads, as an engineer on the Courtown Main Drainage Scheme and as Borough Engineer in Wexford along the way, among other roles.

In 2020, he was selected to head up the newly established National Housing Delivery Office, a role which he only returned from late last year.

Since then, as well as his role as Director of Services, he also took on the role of Chairperson of the Fleadh Executive Committee ahead of Wexford town hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024.

Cllr Bolger’s views on the Referendums

By Dan Walsh

Next Friday, March 8th, is Polling Day (7am to 10pm) and Irish citizens will be asked to vote in two Referendums on Family and Care to change the Constitution. Every household should have received an information booklet in the post.

Gorey based Cllr. Andrew Bolger, a practicing Barrister, weighs in on the Referendum in a statement issued to WexfordLocal.com this evening.

CLLR ANDREW BOLGER

Cllr Bolger said; “I think the family amendment is a positive change. Originally, the family was viewed as a marital family with the father as the provider and the woman as the caregiver. We know ‘old Ireland’ and this was the view at the time in the 1930s and it stems from the idea that the family has always been there and having it in our Constitution is merely recognising it, not establishing it.”

Cllr. Bolger was asked what a ‘durable relationship’ is? His reply; “I would say that this is the ‘modern family’, we know these families and presently in society, we don’t see them as any less than being a family. Should this question come before the Courts they will consider what our intention was at the time of voting. The commentary around the Referendum may very well become important at a later stage. Essentially, it is a family based on different types of committed and continuing relationships other than marriage.”

Cllr. Bolger was keen to stress that the Constitution will continue to say that the State pledges itself to guard with special care the institution of Marriage.

The second amendment is the Care amendment. This has been referred to as the ‘women in the home’ Referendum. “It’s the care that will be valued rather than the so-called ‘duties of a woman’. Once again, we must look back to 1937 when the Constitution came into being. The social norm at this time means that the wording ‘woman’ actually means ‘mother’ in the Constitution.”

Cllr Bolger continues; “In the proposed amendment women are not being demoted. It’s accepting that care in the home doesn’t fall to women and women alone. When the Courts are applying the value of care in the home, they seem to be ahead of the game. They already apply the value of the care in the home as being equal across both genders. Essentially, should this amendment pass, it will reflect what is already happening in practice.”

Tom Enright bows out in feast of good wishes

TOM and NOREEN ENRIGHT on his final day as Chief Executive of Wexford County Council.“We wish Tom and his family a future filled with fulfilment, and happiness.” (Pic; Wexford County Council)

By Dan Walsh at Wexford County Council Headquarters, Wexford

Last Friday marked the end of Tom Enright’s tenure as Chief Executive of Wexford County Council. It was an historic occasion marking the end of a decade of progress and launching into a vision of sustainability and continuation towards more progress and prosperity for the future of the county in the years and decades ahead.

Mr. Enright, a Waterford native but now fully adopted as a ‘Wexfordian’ held the position of Chief Executive since 2014, one of only six people to hold the post since it was created under the County Manager’s Act in 1940. 

Glowing tributes were paid by the elected representatives, colleagues, and friends, on his departure. His tenure as Chief Executive over the past decade has been described by many as “transformative” and his strategic foresight had

been instrumental in shaping Wexford’s future, from spearheading infrastructure projects in all five municipal districts – Gorey Kilmuckridge, Enniscorthy, New Ross, Wexford Borough and Rosslare – to championing economic initiatives, leaving a legacy that will benefit generations to come.

At the February meeting of Wexford County Council the elected representatives (see article “We worked together to make Wexford better; Tom Enright” on WexfordLocal.com paid tributes as did the officials, but on Mr. Enright’s final day in the office the staff and a huge gathering in County Hall where the departing message was; “We wish Tom and his family a future filled with fulfilment, and happiness.”

25,000 litres of beer seized at Rosslare

By Dan Walsh

Revenue officers seized over 25,000 litres of beer at Rosslare Europort last Monday.

ROSSLARE EUROPORT (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

The illicit alcohol branded ‘Stella Artois’, ‘Carlsberg’, ‘Perla’, ‘Kestrel’, ‘Kronenbourg’ and ‘OJ Strong’, has a retail value of over €100,000, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of approximately €47,000.

The consignment had arrived in an accompanied trailer that had disembarked a ferry from Dunkirk, France. The driver of the load has been questioned and investigations are ongoing.

These seizures are part of Revenue’s ongoing work targeting smuggling and shadow economy activity. If businesses, or members of the public, have any information regarding smuggling, they can contact Revenue in confidence on 1800 295 295.