ICA exhibition opens in Enniscorthy Castle

At the official opening of the latest exhibition Enterprise & Determination; A History of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association in Enniscorthy Castle last night were (left to right); Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Breda Cahill, Chair of the Wexford Federation of ICA, (who cut the ribbon and performed the official launch of the exhibition) and Mico Hassett, Manager at Enniscorthy Castle.  

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Castle

Enterprise & Determination; A history of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (affectionately known as the ICA) is the title of a new exhibition that runs in Enniscorthy Castle until June.

Cutting the ribbon for the official launch last night was Breda Cahill, Chair of the Wexford Federation of ICA and Chair of the Climate Action and Sustainability Committee for ICA at national level.

Ms. Cahill spoke about the strength and determination shown by the women of the ICA through the years, but particularly in the 1950s and 60s when they embraced the rural electrification scheme and showed the way to progress and promoted a better standard of life for families.

Members of various guilds were in attendance to view the various panels illustrating the origins and development of the ICA since its first official meeting in Bree Hall on June 15th, 1910 and information on the founder Anita Lett. It was originally known as the United Irishwomen but changed its title to the United Irishwomen in 1934.

The ICA is the largest women’s association in Ireland, with circa 6,000 members and over 440 Guilds across the country. “We cook, travel, craft and socialise!” is their motto!

The aim of the ICA is to provide a welcoming and fun organisation which offers support, friendship, personal development, education and life-long learning.

Attendance at the opening reception included Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllrs Kathleen Codd-Nolan and Barbara-Anne Murphy and representatives of a number of guilds.

Mico Hassett, Manager at Enniscorthy Castle, welcomed everybody to the reception, thanked the ICA for participating in the exhibition and encouraged the public to come along and reflect on the existence of the ICA. The exhibition is on public display until June.

Today is World Hearing Day

Úna Walsh, Tony Ward and Dr Sabrina Brennan Join forces for World Hearing Day ( March 3 ). Hidden Hearing ambassadors Úna Walsh, former Irish rugby player Tony Ward and neuroscientist and author Dr. Sabina Brennan are urging Irish people of all ages to Love Their Ears and stop taking hearing for granted. Photograph: Sasko Lazarov / Photocall Ireland

A day that reinforces the need for everyone to look after their hearing health. While early intervention and prevention can reduce the risk of hearing loss, the worrying news is that it’s on the rise, with a projected 2.5 billion people worldwide to suffer from hearing loss by 2050.  

Hidden Hearing ambassadors Úna Walsh, former Irish rugby player Tony Ward and neuroscientist and author Dr. Sabina Brennan are urging Irish people of all ages to Love Their Ears and stop taking hearing for granted.  

Gifted musician, Úna Walsh who wowed millions of Late Late Toy Show viewers in’21, was ten when she was diagnosed with moderate to severe hearing loss and more than likely had hearing loss since birth.  

“I’m delighted to be part of this worthy campaign to urge people young and old to love their ears” said Hidden Hearing Ambassador Úna. “I cannot put into words how much my bluetooth hearing aid has changed my life. I feel so much more included in everyday things that others may take for granted.” 

Former Irish Rugby Player Tony Ward, who believes his hearing loss was heightened by head injuries during his career said: “I have over 70% hearing loss and without hearing aids I would have a really difficult quality of life. Although my hearing loss did lead to a level of reclusiveness and isolation, my hearing aids have now opened the door to a better life.”  

It’s worth having your hearing checked regularly as hearing loss can be linked to other diseases. Neuroscientist and author Dr Sabina Brennan said: “Hearing loss increases your risk of developing dementia. Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation and depression both of which are detrimental to the health of your brain. That’s why adopting hearing health habits like protecting your ears from excessive noise, going for annual hearing tests and wearing hearing aids are a brilliant way to look after your brain health.” 

Hidden Hearing is highlighting the importance of integrating ear and hearing care within primary care, as an essential component of universal health coverage. 

“The ability to hear is a gift and a gift that is often unappreciated. Healthy hearing allows us to interact with loved ones to learn, to socialise and to experience the world at its best” said Dolores Madden Audiologist and Marketing Director with Hidden Hearing.  

Top Tips to Love Your Ears: 

Turn down headphones. 

Where ear protection when needed. 

Get tested regularly. 

Wear hearing aids to protect against hearing loss. 

A new chapter; Red Books opens in Gorey 

By Dan Walsh in Gorey 

Wexford’s independent bookstore Red Books has opened a new outpost on Gorey’s Rafter Street. The eclectic bookshop, recently voted ‘Irish Bookstore of the Year’ in a poll conducted by Sunday Independent journalist Sophie Grenham, now has a new store inside Gorey outlet Hawthorn & Mayblossom.

“We’re delighted to have this new outpost in North Wexford,” Red Books owner Wally O’ Neill said. “Gorey is a vibrant and artistic town, and obviously a hamlet of book lovers. The late John Wyse Jackson cultivated a legendary bookstore in his Zozimus bookshop here over many years and it has been sadly missed. We can never replace Zozimus but we will try to bring our own unique brand of bookselling to Gorey.”

ANNMARIE O’BYRNE HAMMEL and DAN WALSH discussing their favourite books at the opening of the new Red Books Store on Rafter St., Gorey.

Speaking with WexfordLocal.com today, Mr. O’Neill added; People in Gorey have been incredibly welcoming to us so far. We can’t thank Mary and the staff at Hawthorn & Mayblossom enough for accommodating us in their very charming shop, renowned for its antiques, jewellery and collectables. Red Books is a community bookstore and we’re sure a new community will build around this bookshop as they have around our shop in Wexford’s St Peter’s Square.”

Speaking on a social media video, Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin described the opening of the new Red Books as a “very exciting opportunity for Gorey”, highlighting the many events and artistic groups that have formed out of its Wexford store over the past three years.  

The new bookshop is located in Hawthorn & Mayblossom at number 2 Rafter Street, Gorey, and is open from 10-5pm every Tuesday to Saturday.

BREAKING NEWS; Wexford General Hospital closed

Smoke billowing from Wexford General Hospital and emergency services at the scene. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Wexford General Hospital

A major emergency has been declared at Wexford General Hospital tonight following today’s serious outbreak of fire and the entire hospital is now closed. Extensive damage caused to the building renders it unsafe and all patients are evacuated.

The decision was made between Wexford County Council, the HSE, An Garda Siochána and other interested parties and a fleet of ambulances will clear the building and transport 207 patients to other hospitals. This is happening tonight.

St. Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin, St. Luke’s Hospital in Kilkenny and University Hospital Waterford, others outside the region and nursing homes are assisting in the transfers which involves about 100 ambulances.

Wexford General Hospital is closed for the foreseeable future. Although unavoidable due to health and safety concerns following a serious fire it will have immediate consequences for patients and their families and the 700 staff that provide health services at the hospital.

The Wexford General Hospital hotline for enquiries is 053 9153012.

 

100 patients evacuated in major Wexford Hospital fire

The scene at Wexford General Hospital this afternoon (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Wexford General Hospital

More than 100 patients from four wards, including the Intensive Care Unit, were evacuated after a major fire broke out on the second floor which is located above the main entrance to Wexford General Hospital this afternoon. Fortunately, no injuries are reported.

A member of staff at the hospital, who asked not to be named, told WexfordLocal.com that it was a normal day at the hospital when just before 4pm the fire alarm went off and an immediate evacuation commenced. “Our first concerns was  for the safety of the patients and, thankfully, everybody was taken to safety as quickly and as calmly as possible,”

Many patients were visible in bed wear outside the building and cared for by staff as ambulance crews and hospital staff prepared to find alternative immediate care. Many may be placed in other hospitals in the region and a fleet of ambulances have been drafted in to bring comfort as quickly as possible as patient health and safety is paramount at Wexford General Hospital.

WexfordLocal.com has been informed that St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin, is on standby to provide accommodation if required. Hospitals in Waterford and Kilkenny may also be used, however, it is expected that few beds would available.

Firefighters were quickly on the scene with units from Wexford, Enniscorthy, New Ross and Gorey tackling the blaze which shot up into the sky for almost an hour sending plumes of smoke into the air.

“We had seven engines and three other units plus a hydraulic lift apparatus on the scene and we are waiting for a second hydraulic unit coming from Waterford city,” Deputy Fire Officer Ray Murphy told WexfordLocal.com. “I am more relieved now because the fire is under control and everyone is safe,” he added.

Dozens of Gardaí were called to the scene to manage traffic arrangements which was extremely heavy at that time of the evening.

Chief Executive Officer of Wexford County Council, Tom Enright, attended the scene in the company of Senior Engineers.

Wexford County Council sent out an urgent message warning people to avoid the area while the emergency was in place and those living in the immediate area should “close windows and doors and turn off all ventilation.”

Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr George Lawlor said “the fire is substantial” but he was relieved that “there appears to be no danger to any patients or staff at the hospital.”

Emergency services will be at the scene overnight and a major investigation will be held to assess the damage caused and set about repairs and reopening the building as soon as possible. Substantial damage has been caused to the roof where the fire originated.   

IFA support for Enniscorthy school

Lee Rogers, (left), Principal at St. Patrick’s Special School, Enniscorthy, is presented with a cheque by Jer O’Mahony, (right), Chairman of Wexford branch of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) at the annual general meeting of the IFA held in Enniscorthy on Monday night. (Pic; IFA).

By Dan Walsh

A cheque for €12,000 raised at the Christmas Live Crib held at the Farm Centre, Enniscorthy, was presented to Lee Rogers, Principal at St. Patrick’s Special School, Enniscorthy, by Jer O’Mahony, Chairman of Wexford branch of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) at the annual general meeting of the IFA held in Enniscorthy on Monday night.

Mr. O’Mahony said he was “absolutely blown away” by the public reaction to the live crib.

“St. Patrick’s holds a special place in the hearts of the people around Enniscorthy and, indeed, North Wexford, Carlow and South Wicklow,” said Mr. O’Mahony, who added; “To everybody who took part and helped in any way and indeed those who were generous to us, we’d love to say ‘thank you very, very much.”

The National President of IFA, Tim Cullinan, was the guest speaker at the Wexford IFA annual general meeting which enjoyed an attendance of around 160 members.

George Graham, Camolin, who has represented Ireland 11 times in sheep shearing, was elected Chair of the Wexford IFA sheep committee. He is also founder of the voluntary group Awareness Head to Toe.

Andrea McCann is the new forestry Chair.

RNLI seeking volunteers in Co. Wexford

By Dan Walsh

The RNLI is looking for new fundraising volunteers to join its lifesaving crew in Co. Wexford with opportunities to get involved with branches in Courtown, Wexford, New Ross, Kilmore Quay, Hook/Fethard and Rosslare.

Just like the charity’s lifeboats, the RNLI’s fundraising team need a dedicated volunteer crew. Volunteers are at the heart of the RNLI and make up 95% of its people. They are ordinary people who do extraordinary things and without them, the organisation couldn’t continue to save lives at sea.

Grainne O’Brien, Secretary of the Kilmore Quay Guild,

Grainne O’Brien, Secretary of the Kilmore Quay Guild, told WexfordLocal.com; ‘I come from a fishing family and my grandfather Paddy Hayes and my uncle John Hayes were both crew on the lifeboat in Kilmore Quay. From a kid growing up, I always knew the importance of the lifeboat to our community.

“I first got involved in volunteering as a teenager helping in the shop over the summer breaks. Then when I moved home after been away in Galway and Athlone, I wanted to give something back, so I started by helping out in the shop again and then I got involved in fundraising and now I am the secretary of the Kilmore Quay Guild.’

Mary Creedon, RNLI Fundraising Partnership Lead hails the selfless efforts of people like Grainne: ‘Without our volunteers, the RNLI simply would not be able to operate the way it does today. With 92% of the RNLI’s income coming from donations, the charity relies on the generosity of supporters and on the dedication of our fundraising volunteers to help raise essential funds.

To find out more about how you can sign up to be a fundraising volunteer at the RNLI in Courtown, Wexford, New Ross, Kilmore Quay, Hook/Fethard and Rosslare, or to apply, click on this link rnli.org/OneCrewVolunteers

Double for Denis Murphy at Tinahely

Arra Clonceid (No. 2) Paul Lake up; Bonny Dazzler (blue colours) Joanne Corish; and Forest Breeze (No. 6), the winner with Barry Walsh up taking a fence during the maiden race for six-year-olds and upwards at Fairwood, Tinahely, this afternoon.

By Dan Walsh at Fairwood Park, Tinahely

Denis Murphy was the handler in form at today’s Bray Harriers point-to-point races held at Fairwood Park, Tinahely, where he saddled a double, beginning with the 5/4 fav. Break My Soul by one and a half lengths in the maiden race for four-year-olds with Jack Hendrick in the saddle.

The double came for the master of Ballyboy Stables, The Ballagh, when Lough Derg Spirit came home three and a half lengths to the good in the Open Lightweight Race for novice riders. Lough Der Spirit was ridden by Joey Dunne and ran in the colours of the handlers’ mother, Catherine Murphy, and is likely to run in the Aintree Foxhunters Chase in April.

Barry O’Neill had to pull out all the stops on Red Notice in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings but scored by a neck for Colin Bowe just holding off Joie More for the Jack Hendrick/Denis Murphy stables.

Fortune Dancer won the maiden race for five-year-old mares for Sean Doyle with six lengths to spare. Jamie Scallan was in the saddle and the Gain mare’s final may be next for the Soldier of Fortune mare.

Elusive Mae got “a great ride” from Moira McElligott according to handler Willie Murphy from Ballycurragh Stud, Carlow, in a photo-finish (three quarters of a length and half a length covering the first three home) in the Winners of Two race. Elusive Mae’s next challenge may be the Gain mare’s final.

Local winners are always popular and none more so than Forest Breeze, who justified the favourite’s tag at 5/4), and scored easily by twelve lengths for father and son, John and Barry Walsh, from Ballyday, Gorey, in the maiden race for six-year-olds and upwards.

There was also racing at Lisronagh, Co. Tipperary, where there was mixed fortunes for Wexfordians – three wins for Wexford handlers, but top rider Rob James took a fall and suffered a broken shoulder and will likely miss the rest of the season and some choice rides that were coming his way at the forthcoming Cheltenham Festival.

The maiden race for four-year-olds was a thriller. Lady Balko ridden by Brian Lawless for Matthew Flynn O’Connor, Ballycrystal, Bunclody, got the better of Main Stage owned by the Kenny family from Craanford, Gorey, and partnered by James Kenny. by half a length.

There was another Wexford one-two and another tight finish in the maiden race for four-year-old geldings. Bill Joyce handled by Benny Walsh for his wife Jenny and ridden by Tiernan Power Roche got the verdict by three quarters of a length over Express Surprise for Sean Doyle and rider Finny Maguire.

Either On was a winner for Robert Tector, Coolbawn, Rathnure, in the maiden race for five and six-year-old mares at the Tipperary track. Half a length the verdict and Liam Gilligan the successful rider.

Yesterday (Saturday) Barry O’Neill made the long journey to Farmacaffley for the point-to-point run under the auspices of the Tynan and Armagh Foxhounds and while there were no Wexford trained winners, the champion rider enjoyed a double success.

O’Neill teamed up with Tom Dreaper for an eight lengths victory on Carrigeen Castle in the Confined Hunt Winners race and David Christie gave him the leg up on Winged Leader in the Open Race and they came home eleven lengths to the good.

“Enniscorthy madness” in new book

By Dan Walsh in Enniscorthy

There was a packed gathering of family and friends in the Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, this afternoon for the launch of a new novel by Tony Bolger entitled IN HINDSPITE.

TONY BOLGER signing copies of his book in the Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy.

“There is a lot of Enniscorthy madness in the book and I want people to enjoy it,” Tony told WexfordLocal.com, while the rear cover declares in colourful and light-hearted sentiment; “This is the story of how far an idiot will go to avoid dealing with his own nonsense, as he navigates a tornado of self-made disasters, endless sandwiches and random bird attacks.”

This is the first novel for Enniscorthy native Tony Bolger who departed his home place at the age of 19, although he has visited a number of times, and today he returned as a published author and spoke briefly at a humorous launch. “It is nice to be home,” he stated.

He studied English in Creative Writing in Bristol, and although he has written articles for local and online publications, this is his first novel. He admits that his book “is light-hearted reading” and he hopes readers will enjoy it.

IN HINDSPITE is a paperback consisting of more than 200 pages, a variety of chapters and short stories, and is available on Amazon.

TONY BOLGER speaking at the launch of his book IN HINDSPITE in the Presentation Arts Centre, Enniscorthy, this afternoon.