Grant to replace lead pipes in homes

By Dan Walsh

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien has launched a campaign to create awareness of the improved grant available to remove lead pipes from homes.

The Domestic Lead Remediation Grant Scheme provides funding for 100% of the approved cost of works to replace lead pipes, up to €5,000.

The grant is administered by local authorities and is not means-tested. The removal of lead pipes is the most effective way to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water and the available grant has the aim of replacing lead pipes with healthier, modern alternatives in the interests of public health.

Older housing stock built before the 1980s may contain lead pipes which in turn causes lead – which can be harmful to health – to enter drinking water.

A Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage advertising campaign across print, broadcast and digital media will encourage affected homeowners to avail of the scheme.

Minister O’Brien told WexfordLocal.com; “Through this campaign we are encouraging people to consider replacing old lead pipes with the support of the funding. We are committed to removing remaining lead piping entirely from our drinking water supply and this campaign seeks to raise awareness of the Government supports available for householders. The campaign follows from improvements to the grant that we made late last year meaning more households should now be able to avail of this grant.”

People can find out if their homes contain lead pipes by checking the pipe running from the water main to your kitchen tap and looking for the point where the water supply pipe enters your house. Unpainted lead pipes are dull grey in colour and the joints appear to be ‘swollen’. They are also soft and scraping the surface with a coin will reveal a shiny, silver metal beneath. A registered building professional can also check the type of pipework in your home.

The grant to remove lead pipes from the private site of your property complements Uisce Éireann’s Customer Opt-In programme. This scheme replaces lead pipes on the public side of your property free of charge. To qualify you must have replaced your lead private supply pipe.

Further Information on the Wexford County Council page; Lead Piping Remediation/Wexford County Council. (wexfordcoco.ie).

All Roads lead to Ballygullen

By Dan Walsh at Ballygullen

The 225th 1798 Rebellion commemorations are ending as the events have moved on from Boolavogue and Oulart, Ballymurn and Killanne, The Three Rocks outside Wexford town on Forth Mountain, the Battle of Ross and the internationally famous Vinegar Hill as the survivors who fought for their freedom exited the county into neighbouring counties Carlow and Wicklow and into the Midlands.

But there are still a few commemorations to go! On Tuesday, on the exact anniversary of the Battle of Ballygullen, so famously documented in the Memoirs of Miles Byrne from Monaseed – July 4th 1798 – a commemoration will be held from 6.30pm.

Baile Ó gCuilinn – the town of the Ó Cuilinn’s, in the civil parish of Leskinfere and the barony of Gorey – will host its commemorations at the memorial erected by the local community in 1940.

The Battle at Ballygullen was the last battle of the 1798 insurrection in Co. Wexford as the insurgents exited the county and many, including Fr. Michael Murphy participated in the Battle of Arklow, where a memorial on the Main Street remembers the history.

Anyone with an interest is welcome at Ballygullen, near Craanford, on Tuesday evening. There will be a parade of pikemen to the memorial, Cllr Donal Kenny will lay a wreath, historian Barry Lacey will give a summary of events in the area during 1798, a blessing by a local clergyman, Padraig Kenny will give a rendition of Boolavogue, Amhrán na bFiann will be played to conclude the ceremonies.

The organisers extends a warm welcome and say that everybody is welcome to attend or participate and refreshments will be served afterwards at Craanford Community Centre.

Gorey laments loss of GAA stalwart

By Dan Walsh

There is deep sadness in Gorey town and district at news of the passing of Malachy Travers, (88), from Ramstown, Gorey, In a statement on social media tonight, Naomh Éanna GAA Club extends sympathy to his family and friends and outlines his lifelong contribution to the GAA. In the statement it says;

“Malachy was a lifelong Gael who was passionately interested in all things to do with Naomh Éanna GAA club. Before the foundation of Naomh Éanna GAA club, Malachy played with Gorey Blues, Young Emmets and Wolfe Tones. He also played with the County Wexford minor footballers in 1953. Throughout his club playing days, he played in 13 county finals but lost in all of them.

“After he concluded his playing days, he got back involved with coaching alongside Ger Hogan (RIP) and they coached the Under-14 and Under-16 teams together. Some of the teams coached by Malachy featured his talented sons, Malachy Jnr and Brendan. He also managed the club’s Under-21s alongside Bernard Crosbie and John Nangle, a spell which resulted in the club winning the Premier Football and Roinn One Hurling championship titles in 1997.

MALACHY TRAVERS

“Malachy was a dedicated umpire for many referees including Patrick Sheil (RIP) and Joe Kelly. He was a committed steward for Wexford GAA. He was also involved in coaching GAA teams in Gorey Community School down through the years.

“Malachy played in the first match that was held in Páirc Uí Síocháin, which was then a Wexford GAA County Board grounds. Over the years, he has been one of the most frequent visitors to the field. His jeep was a familiar sight turning into the clubgrounds of a weekday evening. May we conclude this tribute to a true Gorey Gael, Malachy Travers Snr, with his own words.” Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.

FAMILY NOTICE; MALACHY TRAVERS, Ramstown, Gorey. Beloved husband of Marie and loving father of Agnes, Malachy Jnr., Aoife and Brendan, brother of Patrick (Pat) and the late Ed and Matthew (Matt). Deeply regretted by his wife, sons, daughters, brother, grandchildren Caoimhin, Grace, George, Ben, Bobby and Kate, son-in-law Eamon, daughters-in-law Elizabeth and Ceara, Aoife’s partner John, brothers-in-law Michael, Gerard and Brendan, sisters-in-law Angela, Eileen, Carmel, Joan and Mary, niece Carmel, extended family, relatives, neighbours and friends. May He Rest in Peace.

Reposing at Murphy’s Funeral Home, The Avenue, Gorey, on Sunday July 2nd from 3pm. to 7pm. Funeral arriving to St. Michael’s Church, Gorey, on Monday for Funeral Mass at 12 noon followed by burial in St. Michael’s Cemetery.

New ferry service at Rosslare Europort

CAPTAIN SEAN BOYCE from Rosslare at the controls of the new ferry Stena Vision which has commenced on the Rosslare route

By Dan Walsh

Ferry services operating at Rosslare Europort has expanded as Stena Vision has commenced service on the Ireland to France route, Rosslare to Cherbourg. The maiden voyage occurred yesterday (Friday) with Rosslare’s Captain Sean Boyce at the controls.

On the same route, Stena Vision will operate alongside Stena Horizon, increasing STENA’s services to six departures per week, resulting in a total of 12 weekly crossings. This will make it the most frequent ferry service between Ireland and mainland Europe.

According to Paul Grant, STENA’s Trade Director, the ship has undergone significant investment for the refit. Stena Vision will offer accommodation for up to 1,300 passengers and feature 485 passenger cabins, surpassing any other cruise ferry departing from Ireland. The cabins range from standard to deluxe suites, and there are also 42 pet-friendly cabins (for passengers traveling with pets).

Mr Grant told WexfordLocal.com that the introduction of Stena Vision is particularly beneficial for the freight sector, which has experienced increased demand for direct services to France since Brexit.

The ship will also enhance the capacity for accompanied freight drivers by providing additional cabin space.

Stena Line holds the position of the largest ferry operator on the Irish Sea, operating combined passenger and freight services on various routes, including Belfast to Cairnryan and Liverpool, Dublin to Holyhead, and Rosslare to Fishguard, as well as a freight-only route from Belfast to Heysham.

The company stated that it offers a total of up to 238 weekly sailing options between Ireland and Britain.

Cllr Moore is new Rosslare chief

By Dan Walsh

Kilmore Quay public representative Cllr Jim Moore is the new Cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal District Council following the annual meeting held in Wexford County Council chamber at Carricklawn this morning (Friday). Outgoing Cathaoirleach Cllr Lisa McDonald is Leas-Cathaoirleach.

CLLR JIM MOORE the new Cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal District Council after his election of office at the annual meeting held in Wexford County Council offices on Friday morning.

Cllr Moore, who previously held the district chair position in 2021 was proposed by Cllr McDonald, he self-seconded and was declared elected.

Cllr Jim Codd was nominated but left the chamber without a seconder. 

The Rosslare Municipal District, which is unique in that it doesn’t have a town in its jurisdiction, consists of five members. Cllr Frank Staples was absent, and Cllr Ger Carthy attended the meeting via zoom.

First elected to Wexford County Council in 2009, Cllr Moore was Leas-Cathaoirleach in 2009 and Cathaoirleach in 2010; he is a former Mayor of Wexford having served in the position for the 2017-’18 term. He has also served on numerous committees in various roles.

Cllr Moore told WexfordLocal.com that his main priority includes growing and encompassing the Rosslare Municipal District Strategic Plan, 2024-2030, recently published, and currently open for public discussion across the district.

“The Rosslare Municipal District Plan is about developing a road map for the district to plan, prepare and deliver projects and initiatives that will be shared with communities working together to contribute to the positive development and growth of the villages and settlements in the district,” stated Cllr Moore.

Outgoing Cathaoirleach Cllr Lisa McDonald was selected as Leas-Cathaoirleach having been proposed for the position by Cllr Moore and seconded by Cllr Carthy.

Enniscorthy signs MOU with UNEP

President of Enniscorthy Chamber of Commerce MICHAEL DEMPSEY enjoying the view from the roof of Enniscorthy Castle.

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Castle

A significant signing ceremony took place at a reception in Enniscorthy Castle last evening (Wednesday) reciprocating the Enniscorthy Forum recently signed MOU (memorandum of understanding) with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) to create a collaboration going forward between the Forum’s Building Action Coalition (BAC) and UNEP’s Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (Global ABC).

Speaking at the event, Michael Dempsey, President of Enniscorthy Chamber said the Chamber of Commerce is the parent body which provides a home to Enniscorthy Forum. “We are delighted at what has been achieved by the Board and our CEO Barbara-Anne Murphy,” said Mr Dempsey, who added; “UNEP is the leading environmental authority of the United Nations and UNEP uses its expertise to strengthen environmental standards and practices while keeping implement environmental obligations at country, regional and global levels.”

Mr Dempsey, who is a native of John Street, Enniscorthy, explained that Enniscorthy is the ideal location for this Forum. “It is a revolutionary change that is needed, and our history has shown us to be happy to lead a revolution!”

“We have a talented and well-educated population. We have easy access to the EU and the UK and America. We are a small country that has been a very successful and consistently punches above its weight and with our history and aspirations we have a special affinity for the UN,” claimed Mr. Dempsey.

There was also an address from Professor Howard Keeley from the Wexford campus of the Georgia Southern University who told the gathering that Georgia has the second largest St. Patrick’s Day parade in Savannah and he stated that €6.2 million has been invested in Wexford, so far.

Chief Executive Officer of Enniscorthy Forum, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy was on hand to welcome everyone to the launch and compliment the hosts, Enniscorthy Castle, on such a pleasant international occasion.

Local historical re-enactors and representatives from many parts of the world at the Enniscorthy Forum reception at Enniscorthy Castle.

A two-day forum at Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, attended by around 70 delegates from many parts of the world was opened on Tuesday by Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy in her role as Chief Executive Officer of the Enniscorthy Forum with an expert panel of speakers which included former President of the European Parliament, Pat Cox.

Participants and speakers included senior representatives from UNEP, UN Education Cannot Wait, United Nations Office in Geneva, Ireland’s Commission for Regulation of Utilities, Coalition members and partners from Washington DC, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, Ireland, Scotland, Germany, Britain, India, and the Laois and Offaly Education and Training Board Mt. Lucas facility.   

The purpose of the summit was to celebrate the signing and launch the work being conducted under the MOU.

As part of an ongoing effort since COP26 in Glasgow, the French government has proposed a “Building Breakthrough Target” as a guide to national policy around the world.  The larger initiative is the Glasgow Breakthrough Agenda, which consists of targets set in various sectors to focus efforts to achieve the goals of the UN sustainable development agenda.  According to GlobalABC, the Buildings Breakthrough statement “near-zero emission and resilient buildings are the new normal by 2030” serves as a joint vision and a rallying point for all countries.

The Building Action Coalition is reporting on outcomes of the Summit to the Environment Ministry in Dublin.

Cllr Connick fills the New Ross chair

CLLR ANTHONY CONNICK wearing the chains of the Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District Council after his unanimous election today.

By Dan Walsh in New Ross

Proposed by Cllr Pat Barden and seconded by Cllr Bridín Murphy, Cllr Anthony Connick was unanimously chosen as Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District Council at the annual meeting held in the council chamber at The Tholsel, New Ross, this afternoon (Wednesday). Cllr Michael Whelan is Leas-Cathaoirleach.

“It is a very proud day for me, and the Connick family and I want to acknowledge their support and thanks to them all,” said Cllr Connick who continued; “I am looking forward to working with the Leas-Cathaoirleach, my fellow councilors’, officials and the public over the next year to meet the challenges and the opportunities which will be presented.”

Cllr Connick said he wants to be an inclusive chair and will welcome the input, support and advice from all members over the coming year.

He invited all groups and local organisations to feel free to make contact and he is looking forward to working with the business community, New Ross Chamber, the John F. Kennedy Trust, The Ros Tapestry and voluntary organisations and sporting groups to deliver for the people of New Ross.”

Cllr Connick added that there are major projects outside of the town like the re-opening of Duncannon Fort and the commencement of the upgrade of Hook Lighthouse.

“The whole town is looking forward to the opening of phase one of the Southeast Greenway shortly on my home ground of Rosbercon and later in the year, the New Ross Emigrant Park on the Quay of New Ross town will be officially opened, and we will take the opportunity to have a major celebration of the 60th anniversary of the visit of President John F. Kennedy to New Ross in 1963,” concluded Cllr Connick.

A native of the Rosbercon side of New Ross, Cllr Connick was first elected to New Ross Town Council in 2009 and has been successfully elected to New Ross Municipal District Council in 2014 and 2019. He served as Leas-Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council during the 2021-’22 term. His brother, Sean Connick served as Cathaoirleach of New Ross Town Council in 2001-’02 and afterwards was elected to Dail Éireann.

The position of Leas-Cathaoirleach ended up with Chief Executive Tom Enright ‘picking a name from the hat’ after the nominations reached stalemate. Cllr Michael Whelan was proposed by Cllr Michael Sheehan and seconded by Cllr John Fleming while Cllr Pat Barden was proposed by Cllr Connick and seconded by Cllr Bridín Murphy. The vote was 3-3 when a resolution was sought by putting the names into a hat- the successful candidate was Cllr Whelan.

Fatal workplace incident near Enniscorthy

The man who died in a workplace accident in a farmyard near Enniscorthy last Saturday afternoon has been named as Vinny Power (52) from The Leap, Adamstown.

Emergency services were quickly on the scene, but a Garda statement confirmed; “A man in his 50’s sustained fatal injuries because of this incident and a file are being prepared for the coroner.”

His remains were taken to University Hospital Waterford where a post-mortem took place.

Health and Safety Authority personnel attended the scene and a full investigation is taking place.

Deepest sympathy is extended to his sorrowing family and friends; Beloved son of the late Joan and Dave, partner of Ann, brother of Catherine, Sean, David and Jean. Sadly missed by his loving brothers, sisters, nephew Daithí, nieces Tina, Katie, Julie, Hannah, Jodie, Ali and Éirinn, brothers-in-law Matty and Mark, sisters-in-law Mary and Annette, Ann’s children Cillian and Ciara, extended family and many friends. May His Gentle Soul Rest In Peace.

Reposing at his residence on Wednesday June 28th from 3pm concluding at 6pm. House private at all other times please. Removal on Thursday June 29th at 9.30am to Saint Abban’s Church, Adamstown, arriving for funeral Mass at 10am with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

Cllr Hegarty is Mayor of Wexford

Cllr John Hegarty is the new Mayor of Wexford following the general meeting in Wexford Arts Centre last night (Monday). Deputy Mayor is Cllr Leonard Kelly.

Posting on social media today, Cllr Hegarty said he is “honoured to have been elected as Mayor of Wexford for the coming year.”

MAYOR OF WEXFORD CLLR JOHN HEGARTY

“I am looking forward to the year ahead, representing the people of Wexford to the very best of my ability, along with the newly elected deputy mayor Cllr Leonard Kelly and the rest of my Council colleagues.”

Cllr Hegarty was proposed by Cllr Kelly and seconded by Cllr Tom Forde while Cllr George Lawlor was proposed by the outgoing incumbent, Cllr Maura Bell and seconded by Cllr Garry Laffan.

A native of Kilanerin, Cllr Hegarty served as a Fine Gael public representative on Gorey Municipal District Council for ten years until June 2019 – having served as District Cathaoirleach 2018-’19 – when he stepped down due to work commitments in Wexford town and was successful in the Wexford District in the 2019 elections.

Cllr Hegarty, who is currently Manager of the Wexford senior football team and made 105 appearances with Wexford between 1995-’06 (Source; Dominic Williams) is a teacher in Wexford town and served as Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council in 2017-’18..

The chains of office were presented to Cllr Hegarty by Cllr Maura Bell who said a “thank you to everyone I met during the year as I served as Mayor of Wexford Borough District. A year I’ll remember forever.”

Rosslare Bowling Green opens

At the opening of Rosslare Bowling Green (Pic; Wexford County Council).

By Dan Walsh

Rosslare Bowling Green has been formally opened by the Cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal District Council, Cllr Lisa McDonald. Also present were Cllrs Jim Moore, Frank Staples, Ger Carthy and Jim Codd.

The four-lane Bowling Green, which is built to world bowling standards, measures 25×40 metres in size and took eight months to complete at a cost of €191,000.

Cllr McDonald said the redeveloped Bowling Green is a marvellous addition to the sporting and community facilities in Rosslare Strand and local area. “It gives people of all ages an opportunity to try out a different sport and in particular it may be of interest to retired people or those who have finished with more intensive sports,” stated Cllr McDonald, who added; “I hope that this wonderful amenity will bring more people to participate in bowling and to attract high level competitions to the Rosslare area and thus bring more visitors and boost the local tourism economy.”

Carolyne Godkin, Director of Services for Climate Change and the Environment stated that “the Council was delighted to be associated with such a fine sporting facility” and she hopes that the Bowling Green brings more visitors to the Rosslare area and adds to the enjoyment of visitors to the traditional and popular resort that is Rosslare Strand.”

The Project was a partnership between Rosslare Bowling Club, Rosslare Community & Sports Centre, Rosslare Development Association, Wexford County Council, Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport and Sole Sport Ltd.