Death of Enniscorthy businessman

By Dan Walsh

The death has occurred of well-known Enniscorthy businessman, Pat Casey, (69), 20, Slaney Street, who was also a great community activist and was a founder member and former chairman of Slaney Search and Rescue.

PAT CASEY

Mr. Casey worked for the family business, MF Casey Jewellers, set up by his late parents, Maurice and Betty Casey, after they purchased the former family business and home of renowned poet Anthony Cronin (1923-2016) on Slaney Street in the early 1950s.

A most popular member of the community, news of Pat’s death has been greeted with shock and sadness and condolences are extended to his sorrowing family and friends. R.I.P.

In a statement on social media Slaney Search and Rescue paid this fine tribute; “It was with deepest sadness that we heard yesterday of the untimely passing of our beloved member Pat Casey. Pat has been with Slaney Search and Rescue since its inception. Over the years he has worked tirelessly for the organisation, holding many positions on our Committee including Chairman. But probably Pat’s greatest talent was training our new members. From introducing them to the operation of the boats to showing them how to stand up in a dry suit, Pat was the man. He will be sorely missed.“

FAMILY NOTICE; Dearly loved husband of Margaret Kavanagh Casey, loving father of Marguerite and John, adoring grandfather of Patrick and John, beloved son of the late Maurice and Betty and much-loved brother of Betty, Maurice, Stephen, Christina, Marie and the late John and Catherine.

Sadly missed by his loving family, Marguerite’s partner Jimmy, John’s partner Azraa, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. May He Rest in Peace

Reposing at Browne’s Funeral Home, Enniscorthy, on Saturday from 12 noon until 7pm and on Sunday from 2pm with removal at 6.30pm to St. Aidan’s Cathedral.

Funeral Mass on Monday at 12 noon. Burial afterwards in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Enniscorthy.

Family flowers only, please. Donations, if desired, to Slaney Search & Rescue.

Ladies Day Friday at Wexford races

Seventy-nine runners have been declared for the seven-races Friday evening race meeting at Bettyville Park and the scene is set for a great sporting occasion. The first race is off at 4.55pm.

The latest update on the track is “good to yielding and a mainly dry forecast.” They are monitoring the situation regarding watering.

A bumper attendance is expected because it is Slaney View Motors and Ferrycarrig Hotel Ladies Day in association with New Mood Boutique. The guest judge is well-known fashion commentator Marietta Doran, no stranger to Wexford racecourse, she’s been here before, and nobody better to bring out the best in glamour and colour and style to the social side of racing at Wexford.

Fashion commentator MARIETTA DORAN and DAN WALSH at Wexford races July 2019. Working together again on Friday. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

THE CARD; 4.55pm; Think Print & Design Maiden Hurdle of €10,500, 2 miles 160 yards. (11 runners).

5.30pm; Traynors of Wexford Handicap Hurdle of €10,500. 2 miles 4 furlongs 100 yards. (12 runners).

6.05pm; Country Fest Wexford August 13th Handicap Hurdle of €11,000. 3 miles. (13 runners).

6.40pm; O’Driscoll’s Irish Whiskey Beginners Chase of €12,000. 2 miles 3 furlongs 170 yards. (11 runners).

7.15pm; Elevate Financial Planning Opportunity Handicap Chase of €11,500. 2 miles 3 furlongs 170 yards. (11 runners).

7.50pm; Racing TV Members Handicap Chase of €11,000. 2 miles. (10 runners).

8.25pm; Irish Stallion Farms EBF (M) INH Flat Race of €11,000. 2 miles 160 yards. (11 runners).

New addition to Bree Hill Walking Trails

BALLYBRITTAS DOLMEN will be open to visitors on the Bree Hill Walking Trails from next Sunday.

By Dan Walsh on Bree Hill

Ballybrittas Dolmen, hiding low down on the western slope of Bree Hill, dates from around 1800 BC, and far and away the oldest man-made building in Co. Wexford and next Sunday it takes on a new identity when the Ballybrittas Dolman Trail is officially opened to the public.

It is an ambitious extension to the existing Bree Hill Trail and the meeting point is Bree Community Centre for the opening ceremony at 12.45pm by Cllr John O’Rourke, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council. Local archaeologist Colm Moriarty will give a talk about the dolmen at the site.

Credit is given to Bree Trail Committee; a sub-committee of Bree Development Group and the extension was completed due to €50,000 grant funding. The project is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Wexford County Council.

Writing in my book, Bree; The Story of a County Wexford Parish (edited by the late Gerry Breen and long out of print) in 1980, my sources for research on the Ballybrittas Dolmen was the Early Irish History Department at UCD, Dublin.

The Ballybrittas Dolmen belongs to a group of megalithic tombs called ‘portal dolmens’, so called because the massive stones holding up the large capstone, that could weigh anything from 20 to 100 tons weight) are sometimes arranged in the shape of a porch.

It is said that the site at Ballybrittas is a classic site for portal dolmens – on the side of a townland close to a hill – in this case the River Boro, a tributary of the River Slaney famed in local poetry and verse.

Nothing is known of the dolmen makers apart from the tombs they built were for their dead. They would have had no writing, or no metals at all, although they might have been aware that metals existed.

Today, I survived the 6.2km (3.9 miles) trail, via Bree Hill, steep slopes in both directions and not for the faint-hearted, but the panoramic views from the east coast, across south Wexford and towards New Ross were pin-sharp accompanied by 26 degrees and brilliant sunshine.

Wexford racing concerns on Minister’s desk

By Dan Walsh

Over 40 horse trainers and point-to-point handlers currently operating in Co. Wexford are calling on Wexford-based Minister for State at the Department of Justice with responsibility for law reform, James Browne TD, expressing concerns around the future broadcasting of Irish race meetings and the gambling advertising watershed ban which is proposed in the Gambling Regulation Bill.

The correspondence, which has the full backing of the Irish Racehorse Trainer’s Association, released to the media, and seen by WexfordLocal.com begins as follows; “We, your constituents, represent over 40 yards and support close to 400 full and part-time employees as well as creating a very substantial amount of indirect employment.”

“You (Minister Browne) may not realise but over the last two years Wexford-based trainers and handlers have been responsible for the sale of horses to the value of over €45 million. It is a great source of pride to us that our efforts and success have resulted in a major boost to local economies throughout the county, especially within the last decade. 

“In recent weeks we have become aware of the Gambling Regulation Bill which is likely to be passed into law later this year. As a body we wholeheartedly support any form of gambling regulation and anything that can be done to protect the vulnerable and most at risk in our society is paramount. So before proceeding any further we want to impress upon you our belief that the Gambling Regulation Bill is a necessary and positive addition to legislation in Ireland. 

“However, lately there have been reports in the media that the dedicated horse racing subscription channels – Racing TV and Sky Sports Racing – are seriously worried about their ability to continue broadcasting Irish race meetings to an Irish audience in light of the gambling advertising watershed ban which is proposed within the Gambling Regulation Bill.

MINISTER JAMES BROWNE… Wexford racing interests have expressed concerns about some issues in the Gambling Regulation Bill.

“Television coverage, which encompasses the two aforementioned channels along with RTE, TG4 and Virgin Media, represents one of the key pillars in our ability to market the sport and, as importantly, our bloodstock. So, if racing were to disappear from our screens, we believe it would have a detrimental effect on both the hugely successful Irish racing industry and our pivotal point-to-point sector which underpins local economies throughout Wexford.

“The ability to watch live racing pictures from Irish tracks is still a comparatively new phenomenon but it is one which is now a vital component to the overall health of the racing industry. It enables the sport to seamlessly reach its core fan base while also helping to attract new business to all in our local area and beyond.

“Therefore, we are seriously worried that if racing was to disappear from our television screens because it is no longer commercially viable for these channels to broadcast here at home, it would represent a terrible blow to our livelihoods not to mention the impact it would have on local economies throughout the county. 

“Fundamentally It will greatly undermine our ability to sell horses to anybody but overseas clients as Irish interest in Irish racing would unquestionably diminish sharply in the absence of live television pictures. 

“Minister, we would plead with you avoid what is an unintended consequence of this extremely worthwhile and necessary piece of legislation and work towards creating the sort of exemptions already place in other jurisdictions such as Australia and Britain that will allow these TV channels (that are already behind paywalls) to work in a commercial environment where it is attractive for them to continue to broadcast Irish racing here in Ireland and not just to a UK audience where no similar commercial restrictions apply.”

17th New Ross Piano Festival launch

Artistic Director FINGHIN COLLINS performing at the launch of the 17th annual New Ross Piano Festival on the Dunbrody Famine Ship.

By Dan Walsh in New Ross

An exciting programme has been arranged for the 17th New Ross Piano Festival (September 20-24th) taking place in St. Mary’s Church, New Ross, details of which were announced by Artistic Director, Finghin Collins, at a special launch on board the Dunbrody Famine Ship on New Ross quayside last evening (Tuesday).

Guest speaker was Dr. Eamonn McKee, Irish Ambassador to Canada, who spoke about the many links between Ireland and Canada and he related the emigrant voyage of the Fitzwilliam estate occupants from Coollattin from New Ross port during the Famine years of the mid-19th century.

Artistic Director Finghin Collins also played Canada and recalled happy memories from there, he also performed a few piano pieces, as did Grace Mercer. John Kissane, Chairman of New Ross Piano Festival Committee, welcomed the invited attendance and acted as master of ceremonies.

This year there is a lot of Rachmaninov, on the 150th anniversary of his birth.  Sergei Rachmaninov was born on April 1st 1873 into a family of the Russian aristocracy which had a strong musical tradition. Interestingly, his paternal grandfather had taken lessons from the Irish composer John Field.

Pianist Lucy Parham is bringing the actor Tim McInnerny to perform Elegie, a musical journey through Rachmaninov’s life and compositions.  

Meagan Milatz is coming over from Canada, as part of an exciting collaboration with the festival at Le Domaine Forget near Quebec, whereby both festivals commissioned piano pieces inspired by the Dunbrody Ship, which was built in Quebec.  The replica ship, the Dunbrody is one of New Ross’s tourist attractions, dealing as it does with emigration to America from this area. 

The Festival has always encouraged a youth element, in several ways.  There is one whole evening concert given by 20 young piano students from the South East, there are sessions in the Library with primary school children, and the talk and concert performance to second level students in the church, as well as a public master-class with one of the guest pianists, Lucy Parham, and two advanced students.

Festival tickets are booked via St. Michael’s Theatre, New Ross, (055 421255). Lots more detail in the brochure and on the website, www.newrosspianofestival.com

Enniscorthy music and food festival success

Enniscorthy town centre is thronged for the 2023 Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival. (Pic; Rockin’ Food & Fruit Committee).

By Dan Walsh

Enniscorthy’s latest and the best to date, Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival has ended, leaving behind a trail of satisfied taste buds, joyful memories, and a harmonious blend of culinary and musical experiences.

The festival was a resounding success, drawing in a diverse crowd that celebrated the fusion of flavours and music. There were 70 food and craft vendors offered everything from delectable street food to exotic international cuisines, attendees wandered the streets and enjoyed a culinary journey that spanned from local food from a variety of Wexford Food Family members to exotic international cuisine.

The Food Marquee was enlivened all weekend with delectable demonstrations from top chefs Kevin Dundon, Edward Hayden, Paul Hynes and range of local chefs and producers.

Wexford Food Family announced their new President Pauline Dunne and attendees were treated to a variety of tastings and talks from their members.

Adding to the variety of festivities and the vibrant atmosphere were the live music performances that reverberated through the air. Local international bands and artists took the stage, delivering captivating performances that had dancers of all ages take to the dance floor. The synergy between music and food created an ambiance that was nothing short of eclectic.

Festival Chairman Eric Barron told WexfordLocal.com that he and the committee “were overwhelmed by the incredible response received for this years Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival” which attracted huge crowds to Enniscorthy over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

“It’s heartening to see the community come together to celebrate food, music, and camaraderie. The festival’s success would not have been possible without the hard work of our team, the participation of talented chefs and musicians, and the enthusiasm of every attendee,” said Mr. Barron, who added; “The festival created a storm on social media, with attendees sharing mouthwatering food pictures, dance videos, and heartfelt testimonials.”

Rock & Roll music promoter Eamonn Doyle said; “Enniscorthy has proved once again why this is a Rock ‘n’ Roll town. We had performers in their teens and Graham Fenton in his 70s, all connected by the sheer passion of Rockin’ music. As a town we have a unique position now in a global culture that has been here for 70 years, here’s to the next 70.”

Festival Organiser Amanda Whitmore thanked everyone for coming along to support the festival and added; “Without the support from our sponsors, we couldn’t put on such a great event. We are grateful for the support of Wexford County Council, Ireland’s Ancient East, Failte Ireland, Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy Credit Union, Wexford Food Family, Wexbury and Big H Plumbing. “In addition to that, we have so many Friends of the Festival who we thank from the bottom of our hearts for their continued support,” concluded Ms. Whitmore.

Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival 2023 is a good news story that is destined to continue as the energetic organisers promised WexfordLocal.com; “We are committed to making each year bigger and better, promising an even more unforgettable experience in the future.”

Family friendly success at Enniscorthy

  • The evening sun setting on Vinegar Hill following the success of the 2023 Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival weekend.

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy

The heat is turned off, the food shelves are bare, the giant Ferris Wheel is slowing down and the crowds have all gone home leaving a legacy of great memories from this year’s successful Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival at Enniscorthy.

CLLR JOHN O’ROURKE

The big talking point was the massive crowds in Enniscorthy town centre on Saturday and Sunday, the kind not witnessed since the halcyon days of the famous Strawberry Fayre. And despite a dodgy weather forecast for the weekend, the weather was on best behaviour.

The crowds were everywhere. The stalls were thronged throughout both days, the night-time music venues enjoyed ‘packed houses’ and the amusements and the Ferris Wheel were extremely busy.

Chairman of the Festival Committee Eric Barron told WexfordLocal.com that the organisers were delighted at the success of this year’s event. “We had great crowds on both days, and it was a true family friendly festival,” he added.

Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllr John O’Rourke, who spoke at the official launch in Enniscorthy Castle on Friday night said it was a big success for the town and he complimented the organisers and sponsors for their great work for the town.

CLLR JOHN O’ROURKE, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council comments on the 2023 Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival.

Gorey Town and District Park opens

Cutting the ribbon and declaring Gorey Town and District Park officially open earlier today (Saturday); Pic; Joseph Dixon)

By Dan Walsh at Gorey Town and District Park

After many years of planning and controversy and delays mainly due to Covid 19, the magnificent community facilities at Gorey Town and District Park were officially opened today (Saturday) and in pleasant weather conditions large numbers, mostly family groups, were taking full advantage of Gorey’s latest community showpiece.

Minister of State, James Browne T.D. said “It is a huge pleasure to be here in Gorey for the opening of Gorey Town and District Park” and he acknowledged the funding support from Minister Heather Humphreys, who Minister Browne remarked “could not be here today.”

Minister Browne predicted that the park is going to provide an inclusive facility for the people of Gorey town and the wider community, and he claimed, “it is designed to connect people with nature.”

Cathaoirleach of Gorey Kilmickridge Municipal District Council, Cllr Pip Breen, said he was delighted to be opening the park with Minister Browne, “There is really something for everybody in this park,” he added.

Cllr Breen said the park is a fantastic asset to the people of Gorey and there are many elements to it; from the extended playgrounds to a pitch, the sensory garden, the micro-forest and the enhanced biodiversity pool, the camper van overnight facilities, the walking track and the outdoor gym facilities, the changing facilities and the café.

District Manager Philip Knight, who acted as master of ceremonies, welcomed everybody, and expressed his delight that “we are finally declaring the Park, the Café and the Changing Facilities open” and he commended many who had contributed over time, including former District Managers Amanda Byrne and Michael Drea.

Mr. Knight read a few comments from the public about the park. “I hope that all visitors to Gorey and the people that live here find this park a happy surprise”, he concluded.

Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, Tom Enright, joined in complimenting everybody who have seen the park come to this stage and he outlined other projects that may benefit Gorey going forward, including plans for St. Waleran’s site.

AUDIO ADDITION; Wexford County Council Chief Executive Tom Enright speaking about plans for Gorey at the Town Park opening today

Sinead and Eoin Cullen who served from a coffee van in the park for eight months won the tender to operate the Coffee Pod Café and they were delighted to be part of today’s opening ceremony along with their two equally excited boys, Ciarán and Riann. “We are proud to have the original paintings of local artist Kate Kos on the walls of our café and we would be delighted if you could tell everybody to come and have a look at this beautiful work,” Sinead told WexfordLocal.com

The attendance included Deputy Johnny Mythen, Senator Malcolm Byrne and Cllrs Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin, Leas-Cathaoirleach, Andrew Bolger, Diarmuid Devereux, Joe Sullivan and Donal Kenny. Kevin Molloy represented the Age Friendly community.

Today’s events took place in conjunction with the Market House Festival, which was appropriately a family fun day in the park, and there was a large attendance, and the various facilities were all busy, well used and appreciated, and there are plans to hold more events in Gorey Town and District Park now that it is fully developed and safe for public use.

Free street music in Gorey

AILEEN SHERLOCK performing on the stage on Main Street for the Gorey Market House Festival (Pic; Joseph Dixon)

By Dan Walsh

Gorey is in celebration mode this weekend with free nightly music from the big stage on Main Street as part of the annual Gorey Market House Festival.

A large crowd gathered for Friday’s opening night music with Corner Boy followed by Allie Sherlock and both acts went down incredibly well.

Tonight (Saturday) will feature Small Fish, Daft Punk Tribute and Conmor and will get the crowd ready for Springsteen A Tribute, Ireland’s Ultimate Bruce Springsteen Tribute.

And on Sunday there is an eclectic mix of musical talent taking to the stage, including Cludaigh, Neon River, Code of Behaviour, Footsqueaker, Finnian, Thinner Lizzy before Abbaesque.

It’s all happening this Bank Holiday weekend in Gorey… be there!

CORNER BOY playing to a packed crowd at the Gorey Market House Festival (Pic; Joseph Dixon)

Woman (60s) drowns in Bannow Bay

By Dan Walsh

A woman in her 60’s drowned after getting into difficulty while swimming at a popular spot at Bannow Bay earlier today (Saturday).

The incident occurred around 11.30am. The woman was pulled from the water but was pronounced dead at the scene.

Her body was taken to University Hospital Waterford where a post mortem examination will be carried out.