Two Wexford winners this weekend

By Dan Walsh

JAMIE SCALLAN had a winner at Lismore today. (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

Despite the heavy going and wet conditions all three scheduled point-to-point fixtures this weekend survived and racing went ahead, although it was a quiet one for the Wexford raiders with only two victories.

Kieran Roche who trains at Adamstown is having his most successful season to date and saddled his 15th training career winner when Be Useful, in the Michael Kenny colours, came home six lengths to the good in the mares maiden race for five-year-olds at Lismore, Co. Waterford today (Sunday).

The winning rider was Jamie Scallan with Colin Bowe’s Push Push (Barry O’Neill up) taking the runner-up spot.

Blackwater handler Grace Kelly celebrated her first point-to-point win at Tyrella, Co. Down, yesterday Saturday), with Another Classic taking the maiden race for five-year-old geldings by three and a half lengths.

Ridden by Shane Cotter, Another Classic was running in the colours of the Bridge Stables Partnership comprising of Larry Kelly, Colm Hearne and Mickey Sweeney and she is for sale.

Barry O’Neill had a winner at Tyrella too! West of Idaho for David Christie by one and a quarter lengths in the maiden race for geldings six-year-old plus.

Next Sunday, February 1st the Wexford Hunt races at Ballinaboola, New Ross, takes place with the first four-year-old race of the year on the card. First race at 1pm.  

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Bishop Nash to new role

BISHOP GER NASH

By Dan Walsh

The Apostolic Nuncio to Ireland, Archbishop Montemayor, has informed Bishop Ger Nash that Pope Leo XIV has appointed him Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Ossory, to take effect today (Sunday, January 25th) when Bishop Niall Coll is installed as Bishop of Raphoe.

In a statement to WexfordLocal.com, Bishop Nash said that this new role will be in addition to his current position as Bishop of Ferns.

“I thank Pope Leo for the trust and faith he has placed in me with this appointment, and I resolve to carry out my pastoral and administrative duties in both dioceses to the best of my ability.

“I very much look forward to working with the priests, diocesan staff and the people of the Diocese of Ossory. I know that there has been much change in the diocese over a short number of years but am confident that we can all work well together to build on the proud traditions of that diocese.

“I am very conscious that this appointment also affects the Diocese of Ferns. I thoroughly enjoy my work and role as Bishop of Ferns and will continue to do so. I consider it a great privilege to be part of that diocese and have always felt a warm and genuine welcome. “However, with this extra responsibility, I will not have the same time to devote to every aspect of my life and work in Ferns. I am very confident, though, that we have good strong systems in place in Ferns, a wonderful body of clergy, hardworking diocesan staff and no shortage of people willing to step up to the mark when called upon.

In conclusion, Bishop Nash said; “May we all continue to pray for each other and our dioceses, that God will continue to bless us with the abilities to spread his word, to proclaim his kingdom and to live in his peace.”

Tributes to accomplished horse breeder

DR JACK MURPHY (Pic; Sean Curtin Press 22)

By Dan Walsh

The death has occurred of Dr Jack Murphy, Ballymacar, New Ross, who was a distinguished equine business lecturer and accomplished sport horse breeder.

Dr Murphy suffered a fatal medical emergency while driving at Maudlins Lower, near New Ross last Tuesday and was pronounced dead at the scene. He was aged 67.

A native of Donanore, Enniscorthy, Jack was a member of Bree Hunt Club in his early days. He was also a playing member of Enniscorthy Rugby Club.

He was appointed by the Minister for Agriculture to the Irish Horse Board in 2013 and progressed from Director to Chairman from 2017 to 2021. He continued to be a Director from 2021 until his passing.

He was also a lecturer in the School of Business at Maynooth University where he taught on the BBS Equine Business programme.

He built Dolmen Sport Horses at New Ross into a recognisable name in sport horse breeding and together with his wife, Dr. Karen Hennessy and children, Molly and Hannah, the Dolmen prefix became associated with athletic, marketable horses.

Paying tribute, the Irish Horse Board said; “Jack leaves a legacy that will endure the policies he helped shape, the horses he bred, the people he mentored. The sport industry has lost a committed director, a thoughtful educator and a dedicated breeder.”

FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of Jack (Dr.) Murphy, ‘Dolmen Lodge’, Ballymacar,    New Ross and formerly of Donanore, Enniscorthy.

Jack is predeceased by his beloved father Simon.

Deeply regretted by his loving wife Karen (Hennessy), daughters Emma, Lorna, Molly and Hannah, his mother Mary, sisters Mary and Anne, brothers Danny, Jimmy, Simon and Stephen, grandchildren Darragh, Zoe and Ruairí, son-in-law Conor, also Catherine, sisters-in-law, brothers- in-law and mother-in-law Helen, relatives and a large circle of friends.

May his gentle soul Rest in Peace.

Reposing in Browne’s Funeral Home, Enniscorthy (Y21 H3K5) on Sunday (January 25th) from 12 noon concluding at 7 o’clock.

Funeral arriving to St. Mary’s Church, Cushinstown on Monday (January 26th) for Funeral Mass at 11 o’clock. Burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

‘Bag It Bin It’ campaign launched in Castletown

Pictured at Scoil Ghormáin Naofa, Castletown were; Back row left to right; Cliona Connolly, Caroline Sinnott, Jill Latimer Environment Section Wexford County Council, Cabrini Desmond, Dog Warden Wexford County Council, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council Cllr. Joe Sullivan and Emer Russell Principal Scoil Ghormáin Naofa, Castletown. Middle Row; Jonah Curran and Theo Curran. Front row; Students from Castletown National School, Darcy Neville, Molly O’Connor Kavanagh, Veronika Steilovska, Emily Quinn, Ciaran Molloy and Conor Molloy.

By Dan Walsh

Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council presented a copy of the educational anti-dog fouling resource pack for primary schools to Principal Ms. Emer Russell and students at Scoil Ghormáin Naofa, Castletown last week

The ‘Bag It Bin It’ education pack which has been sent out to all primary schools in Co. Wexford aims to bring the topic of dog-fouling into the classroom through a variety of lesson plans and activities.

Cllr Joe Sullivan stated that “Great work has been done to raise awareness of the issue of dog fouling on footpaths, trails and parks, but this education pack has heightened the significance of this amongst our students. “They have learned about the health hazards it can pose, and how harmful it is to the environment. All dog owners have a civic responsibility to clean up after their dogs and if we all bag it and bin it, we can protect our communities, our wildlife and our outdoor spaces,” concluded Cllr Sullivan.

Cliona Connolly, Environment Awareness Officer, Wexford County Council, said; “We all know dog poo is unsightly, and discarded poo can pose a health risk as it contains harmful bacteria and parasites. Parents with buggies, children, wheelchair users and the visually impaired are particularly at risk of stepping in or wheeling through dog poo, and being exposed to health implications, not to mention the unpleasantness and inconvenience of getting poo on shoes, hands or wheels.”

Cabrini Desmond, Wexford County Council’s Dog Warden stated; “Most dog owners act responsibly but those who do not clean up after their dogs create a serious environmental and public health issue for everyone else.”

Emer Russell, Principal of Scoil Ghormáin Naofa said; “We were delighted to welcome Cllr Joe Sullivan Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council along with Cabrini Desmond, dog warden and members of the environment section to our school to launch the Bag it Bin It initiative.

Rathangan Church needs major repairs

CLLR JIM CODD at Rathangan Church (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Wexford County Council meeting

At the January Wexford County Council meeting, Cllr Jim Codd inquired about securing €1.3 million for major repairs to Rathangan’s prominent church, known locally as “the cathedral in the fields.”

Rathangan church, a heritage site, needs funding to repair its deteriorating roof. Cllr Codd said locals have asked him to help find sources of funding.

Cllr Codd noted that protecting our history requires professional work, which is expensive and can be a significant burden. “Gone are the days when local tradesmen would make themselves available and freely give their time to community restoration, but health and safety and regulation has ruled that out,” stated Cllr Codd.

Liz Hore, Director of Services at Wexford County Council, concurred with Cllr Codd about the expense of restoring heritage. Nevertheless, she assured that the Council would review the Rathangan project and help seek out any available funding.

Cllr Codd expressed gratitude for Ms. Hore’s enthusiasm regarding the project.

HISTORY & HERITAGE; Rathangan church. In 1863 a decision was made to build a new church at Rathangan, but legal difficulties related to the lease of the site delayed the project, and in June 1870, problem solved and the foundation stone was laid.

The church is a Gothic cruciform building. Seven arches resting on Cork red marble pillars separate the nave and the choir from the side aisles.

The east window was the concept of Rev. Garret O’Toole P.P. from 1853 to 1875 and depicts scenes from the Scriptures. The church is built of red conglomerate stone from the local quarry at Nicharee, with Carlow granite forming the dressings of the doors and windows.

The tower and spire, 135 feet (41.148 metres) high to the top of the cross, form a conspicuous landmark in the locality and, consequently, the church is often referred to as “the cathedral in the fields.”

The church is dedicated to The Assumption and St Laurence O’Toole and took place on October 3rd, 1873. The architect was Richard Sinnott of Wexford, and the builder was James Wilkinson of Enniscorthy.

Wexford entrepreneur wins Craft Award

By Dan Walsh

Annette Rowsome, Local Enterprise Office; Kate Doyle, Ecokinly and Jill Kelleher Local Enterprise Office.

A Wexford craft and design entrepreneur won a national title at the Business of Craft Awards during the Local Enterprise Showcase Exhibition at Showcase 2026 in Dublin’s RDS.

Kate Doyle, founder of EcoKinly in Enniscorthy and client of the Local Enterprise Office Wexford, was crowned Sustainability Champion 2026, recognising her exceptional commitment to creating high‑quality, reusable products that promote sustainable living for families across Ireland.

EcoKinly stood out among finalists from across the country for its innovative range of reusable nappies, wipes, period pads and other thoughtfully designed essentials that help reduce household waste without compromising on comfort, convenience, or style.

Speaking after the awards ceremony, Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at Wexford County Council, said: “We are incredibly proud to see a Wexford business take home a national title at the Business of Craft Awards. Kate Doyle and EcoKinly is an outstanding example of innovation, sustainability and purpose‑driven business in action. This recognition places EcoKinly firmly on the radar of international buyers and highlights the strength of Wexford’s design and craft sector.”

New poetry collection released in Gorey

Éire Ní Fhaoláin at the poetry book launch in Gorey Library.

By Dan Walsh in Gorey Library

Irish language writer, traditional Irish singer and musician, Éire Ní Fhaoláin launched her second poetry book, Puisín Beag an Diabhail, with a bilingual evening of ‘ceol agus filíocht’ at Gorey Library last night (Thursday).

The launch was performed by bilingual poet Ben MacCaoilte who said he was very impressed to be asked to launch Éire’s book of poetry. “For one artist to ask another to launch their book is a great feeling”, he added that he has read the contents repeatedly and told the audience “We will be speaking about Éire for many years to come.”

‘Puisín Beag an Diabhail’ is a collection of nine Irish language poems inspired by the natural world as well as the folklore surrounding the black cat and the number nine.

Éire expressed her appreciation to many people, including those who turned up at the launch, the staff at Gorey Library, na múinteori at Meanscoil Gharman, Enniscorthy, her family and good friends.

There were readings and musical contributions from Máire Ní Bhrian, Paul Tobin, Colm Brennan, Éire herself, and her brother Chulainn Ó Faoláin.

The book design and illustrations are all Éire’s own work with the help of her creative brother Chulainn Ó Faoláin and the poetry book is printed in Ireland under her family publishing press; fóġṁar – fómhar – harvest. Available in local bookshops.

Thyestes glory for jockey Eoin Staples

By Dan Walsh

Wexford jockey EOIN STAPLES won the big race at Gowran Park

The first major steeplechase of the year – the Goffs Thyestes Chase – was run in heavy conditions at Gowran Park, Kilkenny, this afternoon and there was a dream victory on Now Is The Hour (8/1) for Eoin Staples, the 22 years old five-pound claimer from Duncormick.

It was a competitive race and victory was achieved by ‘a head’ and the second success of the day for Staples, who only turned professional last year. Staples also won the Adare Opportunity Handicap Hurdle on The Lovely Man (11/2). Both wins were for trainer Gavin Cromwell from Co. Meath.

Speaking to RTE, Eoin Staples said; “It’s unbelievable. I grew up looking at this race, I’m only from about an hour down the road in Wexford. It’s a big thing in the south-east.

“To get an opportunity to even ride in it is huge, but to go and win it is unbelievable.

“A big thanks to Gavin (Cromwell) and his owners for giving me an opportunity. He’s been supporting me well all year and to get a big one for him, I’m delighted to be able to pay back a small bit.”

It was a successful day for Wexford jockeys. JJ Slevin from Caim won the Grade 2 Galmoy Hurdle on Home By The Lee (3/1) for Joseph O’Brien and Tiernan Power Roche from Tomhaggard scored on Marelly (9/1) for Philip Rothwell in a handicap hurdle.

Taoiseach visits Enniscorthy

Pictured at Enniscorthy Technology Park were (left to right); Breege Cosgrave, Liz Hore, Mary McEvoy, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD, Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Cllr Barbara Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cllr Aidan Browne, Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive Wexford County Council.

By Dan Walsh

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin was in Co. Wexford last Friday and he visited Enniscorthy Technology Park at Killagoley, where he viewed plans for an advanced factory.  

Wexford County Council has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with IDA Ireland to collaboratively develop a property solution for an advanced factory of 2,500 square metres at Enniscorthy Technology Park.  

The design and planning of the advanced building solution were completed by Henry J. Lyons, Architects with planning permission application lodged in December 2025. 

The first building in the Technology Park, Senan House, was delivered by a private investor and the building represents a milestone in Irish architecture and business. It stands as the first certified fully passive commercial building in Ireland. 

Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, Eddie Taaffe, said; “The Taoiseach’s visit to Wexford was an opportunity to shine a spotlight on Wexford and how Wexford County Council supported projects such as the Hatch Lab has contributed significantly to job creation in Wexford. 

He went on to say the signing of the MOU with IDA Ireland and the submission of the application for planning is a significant first step in progressing an advanced factory solution in Enniscorthy which will ultimately attract inward investment to the county”. 

Taoiseach at The Hatch Lab in Gorey

Pictured at The Hatch Lab in Gorey last Friday were (Back row, left to right); Annette Rowsome, Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive Wexford County Council, Breege Cosgrave, Liz Hore, Brian Fives, Mary McEvoy, John O’Connor, Hatch Lab Manager and Iwona Turnea. Front row; Cllr Donal Kenny, Cathaoirleach Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District, An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Malcolm Byrne T.D., and Bernie Morrisey Chair of Gorey Hatch Lab.

By Dan Walsh

Taoiseach Micheál Martin visited The Hatch Lab in Gorey last Friday morning as part of a programme of engagement with enterprise and business leaders in Co. Wexford.  

Welcomed by the Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr. Joe Sullivan the Taoiseach had an opportunity to meet representatives of companies currently operating from The Hatch Lab, including CSC Global, Qedon, and Activ.ie.

An Taoiseach toured the facility with Hatch Lab Manager John O’Connor.   

Cllr. Joe Sullivan said; “The Hatch Lab is part of Wexford County Council’s economic strategy to support an enterprise and innovation infrastructure within the county. “Established in 2017 with significant investment from Wexford County Council, the facility was designed to support the growth of technology-led start-ups and scaling enterprises which is clearly evidenced in business such as Qedon and Activ.ie 

“With a vision “to establish an exciting, competitive, start-up business and co-working environment in the technology and innovation sector that fosters creativity, innovation and ambition in clients,”

The Hatch Lab provides 8,500 square feet of modern workspace, including 52 hot desks, open-plan collaborative areas, and four private offices designed to support businesses as they scale and move towards independent premises.  

The Hatch Lab provides space to businesses under the remit of the Local Enterprise Office, Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland.

The facility is currently fully occupied and is home to a diverse range of indigenous and international businesses.