Mayglass rider Jack Hendrick was the man in form at the Ward Union point-to-point at Oldcastle, Co. Meath today (Saturday) where he enjoyed two winners.
First on the board was newcomer Big Zouk, owned and handled by Denis Murphy, Ballyboy Stables, The Ballagh, who triumphed by a length in division two of the maiden race for five-year-old geldings.
JACK HENDRICK.. a double at Oldcastle, Co. Meath today.
Hendrick doubled up with a six lengths success on Dancing Sky, owned and handled by Thomas Byrne, Kilmore, in the maiden race for mares aged five-years-old or over.
Handler and rider, father and son, John Edward Walsh and James Walsh from Tinahely, were also successful in the Royal County. They enjoyed a victory with Cash Cut by ‘a head’ verdict in the maiden for six-year-old and over gelding’s race.
Tomorrow (Sunday) the Bray Harriers stage the annual point-to-point at Fairwood, Tinahely, with the goodwill of their neighbours, Shillelagh & District Hunt, and the first of six races commence at 1pm.
There is a total of 89 entries and the latest on the ground conditions reads “soft to heavy, heavy in places”. Fingers are crossed for a strong attendance.
JASPER the detector dog was on duty at Rosslare Europort on Friday (File Pic; Revenue)
By Dan Walsh
Revenue officers seized approximately 288.6kg of herbal cannabis, 72.8kg of cannabis resin and 3.3kg of cocaine, with an estimated value of €6,443,640, at Rosslare Europort, yesterday (Friday).
The illicit drugs were discovered within the load when an accompanied freight unit, which had earlier disembarked a ferry from Dunkirk, France, was stopped and searched, with the assistance of Revenue’s mobile x-ray scanner and detector dog, Jasper,
A man in his 40s was arrested by An Garda Síochána and is currently detained under Section 2 of the Criminal Justice (Drug Trafficking) Act 1996 at a Garda Station in County Wexford. Investigations are ongoing.
This seizure is part of Revenue’s ongoing work targeting smuggling and shadow economy activity. If businesses, or members of the public have any information, they can contact Revenue in confidence on 1800 295 295.
The draft Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 was adopted by the elected members at last Monday’s monthly meeting of Wexford County Council held in the Council Chamber at Carricklawn, Wexford.
Speaking of the adoption of the plan, Carolyne Godkin, Director of Services Housing, Community, Libraries & Arts, Environment & Climate Change, Emergency Management said: “The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Amendment Act 2021 required Wexford County Council to produce a Climate Action Plan. This plan incorporates actions that will aid both Wexford County Council and the people of County Wexford to contribute to reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) by the required 51% by 2030.”
CLLR MARY FARRELL…Chair of the Climate Change Strategic Policy Committee
Cllr Mary Farrell, chair of the Climate Change, Biodiversity & Environment Strategic Policy Committee, added; “This Climate Action Plan will allow County Wexford to transition to a climate resilient, biodiversity rich, environmentally sustainable and climate neutral economy.”
County Councils in Ireland were tasked by the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications to create a plan that laid out the specific actions they would be taking to assist their county in meeting climate objectives.
The actions laid out in this document are the foundation of the Council’s climate action for the next five years. There are 133 actions listed within this plan and are across the following areas: Governance and Leadership, Built Environment and Transport, Natural Environment and Green Infrastructure, Communities, Resilience and Transition and Sustainability and Resource Management.
The role of Wexford County Council is to implement actions that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from across our own assets and infrastructure. However, Wexford County Council will also take on the role of influencing and facilitating others to meet their own targets, within the county.
The adopted Wexford County Council Climate Action Plan 2024-2029 will be published on www.wexfordcoco.ie from 12th March 2024. Hardcopies of the plan will be available at County Hall and all Municipal District Offices.
At a pivotal meeting convened by the Courtown Regeneration Partnership and held in Riverchapel, residents and businesses addressed the multi-faceted challenges plaguing Courtown, including issues of degeneration, the loss of tourist accommodation, and the delay in progressing critical infrastructure projects.
The meeting commenced with a candid acknowledgment of the serious issues faced by Courtown. Linda Sinnott of Courtown Community Council summarised the frustrations of those gathered; “Courtown stands at a critical juncture, grappling with an extraordinary burden that necessitates urgent and targeted Council investment and support. The success of any tourist area depends on its beauty, its allure and the public’s perception of safety and enjoyment.”
In a sobering moment, a local resident articulated the stark reality faced by Courtown, describing the once vibrant resort as being in its ‘death throes’ and in dire need of development and investment.
Deirdre Robinson said; “Supporting a beach re-nourishment project for Courtown not only revitalises the shoreline and reinstates our central tourist amenity but potentially also opens the door for other attractive, appropriately scaled development – for example a potential new marina that fits well with the local landscape and enhances the coastal area.
Labour candidate for the forthcoming local elections, Lorna Fitzpatrick called for more transparency and proactive communication from Wexford Council. “The community yearns for a clearer understanding of the path forward on these projects, meaningful engagement with them and a tangible commitment to turning these aspirational projects into concrete realities,” she stated.
The meeting also heard that plans have yet to be submitted for the proposed large-scale hotel on Courtown’s public carpark – the site of the recent controversial ‘land swap’ between developer Thomas O’Loughlin and Wexford County Council. Mr O’Loughlin confirmed before the meeting that plans would be submitted soon to Wexford County Council, and it was agreed that the CRP (Courtown Regeneration Project) would appeal to Mr O’Loughlin to convene a special meeting to facilitate the presentation of these plans directly to the community in advance of their submission.
The meeting also heard a proposal by Courtown Community Council to establish a new “Harbour Tourist Hub” on the site of the old Tara Hall. The ambitious plans outlined a much-needed dynamic space that would not only cater to tourists but also serve as a catalyst for local economic growth and community engagement.
Attendees voiced their enthusiastic support for this initiative, with Cllrs Joe Sullivan and Fionntán Ó Súilleabháinsaying they would support the Council investing in it “one hundred per cent”.
Linda Sinnott stressed the importance of this kind of Council investment in Courtown’s regeneration and she concluded; “With a history marred by neglect, Courtown’s community development remains stifled. Council investment is not merely an economic imperative; it is a moral obligation to uplift a community that shoulders a disproportionate share of challenges. We need to see decisive movement now to get things done. We’re now uniting as a community to breathe life back into Courtown, steering it away from decline and towards a vibrant, sustainable future. We ask Wexford Co Council and our elected representatives for their full support and co-operation in confronting these challenges and transforming Courtown’s trajectory.”
Cllrs Pat Barden, Michael Sheehan and John Fleming and the large crowds at the ‘Save Our Post Office’ rally in Charles Street, New Ross, today.
By Dan Walsh in New Ross
More than 300 people gathered outside New Ross Post Office on Charles Street this evening to support the ‘Save Our Post Office’ campaign to retain the services in the building owned by An Post and serving the community since 1904.
The rally was addressed by Cllrs Michael Sheehan, Cllr John Fleming, who is Chair of Wexford County Council, Cllr Pat Barden, Jer O’Mahoney, Chair of Wexford IFA and Cellie Irwin, Chair of New Ross Active Retirement Group. Paul Kelly acted as master of ceremonies.
AUDIO ADDITION; Cllrs Michael Sheehan, John Fleming and Pat Barden addressing the crowds at the ‘Save Our Post Office’ rally today.
The speeches were short and there were loud cheers as the call to ‘Save Our Post Office’ was uttered many times, the mood was calm but sincere and many in attendance took the opportunity to sign a petition.
In a statement recently, An Post said; “In line with the ongoing transformation of the national post office network An Post has announced that its office in New Ross will become a contractor run post office. New Ross joins the mainstream of national post offices of which more than 95% of the country’s 900 plus offices which are run by contractors. Fewer than 40 post offices nationally are run directly by An Post.
“It is likely that a new location for the post office will be sought by the new Postmaster. In this event the landmark red brick building on Charles Street will be sold as it is owned outright by An Post.
HISTORY; New Ross Post Office was erected on Charles Street to a design examined (1904) by Thomas John Mellon (d. 1922), Principal Surveyor to the Board of Public Works (appointed 1893), representing an important component of the early 20th century-built heritage of New Ross with architectural value.
It is a detached two-bay single-storey post office, designed 1904; opened 1905, on a rectangular plan with single-bay single-storey side elevations; three-bay single-storey return block (north).
Traditionally the popular Gorey Market House Festival takes place on the August Bank Holiday but since Fleadh Cheoil na h-Éireann comes to Wexford, August 4-11th, a new date has been set for the Gorey Street festival.
The Market House Festival will move to the weekend of July 20-21st, with memorable two days of family friendly music, arts and events throughout the town with something for everyone.
“The committee is working tirelessly to present a weekend to remember and although it is a little different from previous years, we can’t wait to share what we have instore for you this year”, said a statement issued today (Wednesday).
The festival promises to be action packed for the whole family with fringe events happening throughout the weekend including the ever popular Play Day, which will take place in Gorey Town Park on the Saturday, and will feature fun for the whole family with Puppet Shows, Magicians and Face Painting.
PopularFine Gael public representative and Mayor of Wexford Cllr John Hegarty will not be standing as a candidate in the forthcoming June local authority election.
MAYOR OF WEXFORD CLLR JOHN HEGARTY
In a statement, today (Wednesday), Cllr Hegarty said; “I will continue to represent people in my role as councillor and Mayor of Wexford until June and after that who knows what the next challenge will be?”
“This has been a difficult decision but one that I have thought long and hard about it. I want to sincerely thank all those who have helped me along the way, as none of this would have been possible without the incredible support of my family, friends and supporters,” said Cllr Hegarty, who added; “I consider it a massive honour to have spent three terms representing firstly the people of Gorey and then Wexford district in Wexford County Council.”
A native of Kilanerin, Gorey, now resident at Crosstown, Wexford, Cllr Hegarty was first elected to Wexford County Council in 2009, served as Chairman of Gorey district on three occasions, and Chairman of Wexford County Council in 2018 as well as his current role as Mayor of Wexford town.
“So, three terms later, I still believe that at a local level, it’s time for new people to step forward. I’m not retiring from anything, just not seeking re-election to Wexford County Council!” he concluded.
TOM ENRIGHT has attended his final meeting of Wexford County Council in the role of Chief Executive.
By Dan Walsh at the February meeting of Wexford County Council
“We have all worked together to make Wexford better through a shared vision leading to ambitious plans and the capacity to invest. Much delivered, more to come, but Wexford has a bright future,” the departing words of Tom Enright, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council following a review of the past decade and his final report presented before members at Monday’s monthly meeting of Wexford County Council held in the Council Buildings, Wexford.
Mr Enright was addressing his final meeting in his role as Chief Executive and many achievements and developments were reviewed from across the county and in all five districts including the emergencies from a few difficult storm events and the global pandemic and Covid 19 that resulted in lockdown for almost two years.
Mr Enright thanked the councillors, the management team, past and present, the staff of Wexford County Council for the secretarial support and “the people of Wexford.” And then the members paid tributes.
Cllr Pip Breen was first to speak and declared that Mr Enright is “a hard act to follow.” Then came Cllr George Lawlor, who complimented Tom on “the vision that you brought to the county with drive, enthusiasm, passion and ambition” and he wished him well in his next endeavours.
Cllr Davy Hynes described Tom as “a visionary and innovative” and he added; “The Council was in a bad way when Tom came here. We had suffered the loss of the Town Council. Tom put Wexford to the forefront every time he could.”
Cllr Michael Whelan pointed out that “every project you worked on was for the benefit of Wexford.” Cllr John Hegarty described Tom as “progressive and ambitious” and spoke of generational projects and believed that in years to come generations of Wexford people will benefit from “your ten years here.” Cllr Hegarty described Tom as “an absolute gentleman and a pleasure to work with” and concluded with the words; “Every decision was for the good of Wexford.”
Cllr Michael Sheehan said Tom had “a high sense of where he wanted to go, he was ambitious, he had a vision and a plan, he was an exceptional worker with great work ethic and was a team player.” Cllr Willie Kavanagh said; “He was a gentleman to work with.”
Cllr Ger Carthy referred to Tom Enright’s “outstanding public service” and added; “The county has progressed ten-fold and he must have invested north of €1 billion. You worked through the storms, snow and virus, You left the county in a lot better place and thanks for that.”
Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin paid tribute “ on behalf of all in North Wexford” and he continued “you steered through very difficult times, yet you delivered through the difficult times. You were always very approachable and very accessible. Enjoy yourself. Go néirí an tá libh.
“Your level of ambition came through in the last 10 years,” said Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, who added; “You made tough decisions but brought the county with you.” Cllr Joe Sullivan added a little humour to the chamber when he congratulated and admired the Chief Executive “despite not being the best boy in the class” and he acknowledged his achievements. “At least you (Tom Enright) are going out on your own terms which may not be the case for some members here in the chamber come next June and the local elections. (laughter).
Cllr Jackser Owens said Tom was “a gentleman” and thanked him for the work he did for Enniscorthy and County Wexford and he wish him “every success” and he concluded “I will miss arguing with you.” (laughter). Cllr Jim Codd referred to some “battles at meetings” but described Tom as “a good democrat who acknowledged us as members” and he wished him the best of luck.
Cllr Mary Farrell admired his “enthusiasm, integrity and honesty. You were inspirational, a true gentleman” and she congratulated him on his ‘phenomenal achievements’. Cllr Oliver Walsh complimented Tom Enright on all the great work he did following in the footsteps of Seamus Dooley and Eddie Breen. “Your legacy will live long in this county,” concluded Cllr Walsh.
Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan referred to a trip to Savannah where she admired the hard work that Tom did to make connections for the benefit of the county. She also recalled his work during the pandemic and the care for elderly people. She described Tom as “decent and honourable” and wish him the best of luck.
Cllr Anthony Connick spoke of a “a very honest man” and said that while the presentation was lovely “it was only the tip of the iceberg.” Cllr Garry Laffan asked to be associated with all the comments, spoke of Tom’s “accessibility” and wished him “the very best of luck for the future.” Cllr Andrew Bolger pointed out that being Chief Executive as “a really difficult job” but Tom was “always professional, made me welcome and I wish you all the best for the future.”
“Always available and only a quick phone call away,” was how Cllr Aidan Browne remembers the Chief Executive. Cllr Frank Staples described his achievements as ‘phenomenal’. “You are a hard act to follow, and I want to thank you for your support to me (Frank Staples) and my family.”
Cllr Cathal Byrne was excited about securing Ballyhogue’s old post office as a shared community space for a community population of 300 people and he told Tom Enright that is his legacy in Ballyhogue and the people of the village will always remember that forever.
Cllr Donal Kenny added his good wishes. Cllr Bridín Murphy said; “you spoilt us, which are the characteristics of a fantastic leader.”
Cathaoirleach Cllr John Fleming summed up by describing Tom Enright’s “outstanding contribution to County Wexford” and shaking hands he concluded; “it has been an honour and a pleasure to work with you.”
Eamonn Hore, Director of Services, paid tribute to Tom Enright on behalf of the officials and staff at Wexford County Council and said his legacy will be “his outstanding contribution to his adopted county” and he wished him well in his future endeavours.
ABBEY SQUARE where the Viewing Stand will be located for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
By Dan Walsh
Preparations are intensely happening under the newly formed St Patrick’s Day Committee who are calling on all Enniscorthy groups, organisations and businesses to make St. Patrick’s Day in Enniscorthy on Sunday, March 17th, a special day to remember.
The theme for this year’s parade is ‘Mardi Fleadh’. As Wexford is hosting Fleadh Cheoil na Eireann in 2024 the committee are encouraging groups taking part in the parade to include a Fleadh element with Irish music and to express creativity, colour and fun where possible in their entries.
Enniscorthy Municipal District, Wexford County Council and Enniscorthy Creative Places have kindly sponsored prizes for the St. Patrick’s Day festival this year. The prizes up for grabs are as follows:
Win €500 for Best Overall Commercial Entry in the parade.
Win €500 for Best Community Entry in the parade.
Win €500 for Best Dressed Business Window Display.
Pettits Supervalu in Enniscorthy have kindly sponsored a €100 Hamper Prize for the Best Dressed person on the day.
The most creative entries will be awarded the prize in recognition of their efforts. The winning entries will be announced on the day.
To enter the Best Dressed Window Display competition please email your interest to emdreception@wexfordcoco.ie by March 10th.
This year’s Enniscorthy St Patrick’s Day Parade will commence at 3pm on Sunday, March 17th, starting at Shannon Chapel marching down the Shannon and through Templeshannon, along Shannon Quay to the Seamus Rafter Bridge, through Abbey Square and over Mill Park Road, up Friary Hill, turning left onto Court Street and turning right up Hospital Lane onto Lymington Road.
From there it will go over to Duffy Hill, to John Doyle’s corner and down Main Street. The walkers will finish at Market Square and disperse from Wafer Street with vehicles going back to Abbey Square.
The viewing stand will be in Abbey Square with music in the Market Square during and following the parade. Once the parade ends there will live traditional music performances on the Market Square.
Rosslare Harbour RNLI lifeboat was launched following a request by the Irish Coast Guard at 5.26pm last Sunday and shortly afterwards reached the scene two miles north of Rosslare Harbour where a 15-metre-long fishing vessel had an entangled propeller.
The crew of the rescued vessel were wearing flotation devices and were safe and well. The weather was clear with slight seas and good visibility.
Having assessed the situation and consulted with the five crew onboard, a decision was made to tow the vessel to Rosslare Harbour. A tow line was secured, and the vessel was safely towed to the harbour.
Jamie Ryan, Rosslare Harbour RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: “I would like to commend the crew of the fishing vessel for wearing their flotation safety devices and for carrying communication equipment. It is essential that sailors and fishers contact the Coast Guard when in difficulty. To do this call 999 or 112.”
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