€1.5m for welcoming Wexford communities

COUNTY HALL, headquarters of Wexford County Council (File Pic)

By Dan Walsh

The Department of Rural and Community Development is providing €50 million to support communities across the country “that have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries” and Wexford County Council has been allocated €1,509,870 from the fund.

The funding is specifically targeted at those villages and towns in the county where the highest levels of new arrivals are located and where a clear need for investment is identified.

Chief Executive Tom Enright said; “the fund will support a diverse range of projects across Wexford, delivering facilities that will benefit people of all ages in their own communities including improvements to playground facilities, walking tracks, community gardens and other community infrastructure.’  

The projects will be delivered by community organisations in conjunction with Wexford County Council. Cathaoirleach, Cllr. George Lawlor said “he was not surprised that Wexford received the full allocation from this fund which acknowledges the efforts of local communities in welcoming people from Ukraine and other countries and helping them to adjust and integrate into everyday life in Wexford.”

The fund was launched in County Hall, Wexford, yesterday (Tuesday) attended by recipient groups. Leas-Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr. Michael Whelan said, “the people of Wexford have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries into our towns and villages and it is great to see these communities being rewarded for their commitment under the Community Recognition Fund.’

In Wexford, the areas with the highest numbers of new arrivals from Ukraine and other countries are Rosslare, New Ross, Enniscorthy, Courtown, Gorey, Wexford, Bunclody and Kilmuckridge.

The funding was allocated as follows: ENNISCORTHY DISTRICT; Enniscorthy Community Allotments Geodesic Dome for Training Centre €20,000.

Templeshannon Community and Childcare LTD Energy Efficient upgrade for heating system for centre €38,308.

Enniscorthy District Purchase of two special needs bicycles €12,000.

St. Aidan’s Hall, Bunclody. Improvements to the Community Centre. €30,000.

Wexford County Council Amenity project at Bellefield, Enniscorthy. €110,000.

GOREY-KILMUCKRIDGE DISTRICT. Riverchapel Community Freecycle committee. Equipment for the centre at Riverchapel Community Complex. €5,000.

Riverchapel Community Complex Development Group. Extension to the community indoor facility at the Riverchapel Community Complex. €120,000.

Ballycanew-Ballyoughter Community Development Association. Improvments to the Training facility at Ballycanew. €20,000.

Gorey Family Resource Centre. Development of facilities at new Family Resource Centre building in Gorey. €63,278.

Phase 1 development of playground at Kilmuckridge village. €75,000.

Upgrade to heating system at Kilmuckridge Community Centre, €25,000.

NEW ROSS DISTRICT; Templeudigan Parish.

Refurbishment of play equipment at community park. €4,000.

St. Abban’s National School Community Garden Development of community garden. €20,000.

Sensory garden at Pearse Park, The Quay, New Ross. €30,000.

New Ross Fethard Community Development Association. Community garden at designated site adjacent to national school. €30,000.

St James GAA Club Refurbishment of walking track €20,000.

36th Ramsgrange Scouts. Scout Yard upgrade. €5,000.

Fethard Community Development Association. Improvements to the Community Centre – St. Mary’s Hall. €122,703.

Duncannon AFC Redevelopment of club grounds €40,000.

ROSSLARE DISTRICT. Public realm improvements   including bus shelter/public lighting/safe crossing at Killinick. €85,000.

Write By The Sea -Audio Visual equipment in Stella Maris Centre, Kilmore Quay. €4,000.

Rosslare Harbour Development Board CLG. Additional resource rooms at back of Community Resource Centre at Rosslare Harbour. €200,129.

Cois Barry Community House. Updating of toilets at Cois Barry Community House. €10,000.

Wexford County Council Redevelopment of the Playground at Kilmore Quay. €145,000.

WEXFORD DISTRICT. Wexford Co Council New MUGA at Ferndale Park adjacent to new proposed Boxing Club. €100,000.

Wexford County Council Trail improvement works at The Rocks in Maudlintown. €94,858.

Wexford Access 2000 Energy Improvements to building €5,000.

Wednesday racing at Wexford

By Dan Walsh at Wexford Races

Three winning favourites and winners for top stables Willie Mullins, Henry de Bromhead, Gavin Cromwell and Gordon Elliott were the highlights of today’s all steeplechase card at Wexford which was held in brilliant summer conditions.

Sadly, no local winners, although in fairness local stables were scarce with runners. Best effort was Noel Dooly’s Courtnacuddy stables who saddled Where’s Bunny (James O’Sullivan up) into third place behind Gordon Elliott’s Pat’s Choice (13/2) in the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Chase.

Racing again at Bettyville Park tomorrow (Wednesday) with the first of seven races (six hurdles and a bumper) getting under way at 5.20pm. There are 79 entries, the going will be good and the weather forecast should be around 22 degrees with possibly some afternoon showers.

WEDNESDAY CARD; 5.20pm; Wexford Racecourse Ladies Day August 13th Opportunity Handicap Hurdle (Division 1) of €10,500. 2 miles 150 yards (11 runners).

5.55pm; Wexford Racecourse Ladies Day August 13th Opportunity Handicap Hurdle (Division 2) of €10,500. 2 miles 150 yards. (11 runners).

6.25pm; Boylesports Novice Hurdle of €12,500. 2 miles 150 yards. (8 runners).

6.58pm; visitwexford.ie Mares Opportunity Maiden Hurdle of €10,500. 2 miles 4 furlongs 100 yards (13 runners).

7.28pm; Racing Again July 7th Ladies Handicap Hurdle of €11,500. 2 miles 4 furlongs 100yards. (12 runners).

7.58pm; Country Fest Wexford August 13th Handicap Hurdle of €10,500. (12 runners).

8.28pm; Enniscorthy Castle (Pro/Am) INH Flat Race of €10,500. 2 miles (12 runners).

Changes at Enniscorthy council

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Council meeting

At the May meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council the Cathaoirleach, Cllr Aidan Browne, led tributes to Bernie Quigley on her promotion to Senior Staff Officer and informed the members that this was her final meeting before taking up a new role in the Procurement Department.

BERNIE QUIGLEY … best wishes on her promotion from members and colleagues

However, Ms. Quigley was back taking notes at today’s June meeting in Enniscorthy as the District Manager, Claire Lawless, is on holidays.

Members thanked Ms. Quigley for her hard work and support over the last number of years and wished her the best of luck in her new position. And Director of Services, Carolyne Godkin wished Ms. Quigley the best in her new role and stated that “Wexford’s gain is Enniscorthys loss.” In the meantime, staff attended a pleasant “send-off” occasion in Stamp’s Bar, Enniscorthy, recently.

Also at the May meeting, Claire Lawless, District Manager took the opportunity to mark the retirement of Fran Breen, popular and obliging Foreman in the Enniscorthy Municipal District. It was noted that Mr. Breen had worked in Enniscorthy for 36 years. The Elected Members wished Mr. Breen the best of luck and health in his retirement. The Director of Services wished to be associated with these sentiments and added that he will be greatly missed in the Enniscorthy Municipal District. A presentation was made to Mr. Breen in the Bailey, Enniscorthy, recently.

Steeplechase card at Wexford races

By Dan Walsh

The first of a two-day summer race meeting at Bettyville Park, Wexford, tomorrow (Tuesday) has a seven-race card – all over the big fences.

Ground conditions are described as ‘good’, there is a chance of rain in the morning, but highest temperatures should reach 21 degrees. The first race is off at 1.40pm.

THE CARD; 1.40pm; Welcome To Wexford Beginners Chase of €11,000. 2 miles. 3 furlongs 170 yards. (14 runners).

2.12pm; August 11th Ladies Day Novice Chase  of €12,500. 2 miles 3 furlongs 170 yards. (5 runners).

2.47pm; visitwexford.ie Handicap Chase of €10,000. 2miles 3 furlongs 170 yards (16 runners).

3.22pm; Forth Mountain Trails Beginners Chase of €11,000. 2 miles (7 runners).

4pm; Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Chase of €18,000. 2 miles (7 runners).

4.37pm; Support Irish Injured Jockeys Handicap Chase of €14,500. 3 miles 1 furlong 70 yards. (10 runners).

5.17pm; Country Fest August 13 Opportunity Handicap Chase of €10,000. 3 miles 1 furlong 70 yards (16 runners).

Wexford welcome as Rose Tour returns

WEXFORD ROSE Bronagh Hogan and ROSE OF TRALEE Rachel Duffy pictured with Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, CLLR GEORGE LAWLOR at the Wexford Rose Tour launch. Pic; Dominick Walsh Photography.

By Dan Walsh at County Hall, Wexford

Wexford County Council has announced the exciting return of the Wexford Rose Tour and roses from the 2023 Rose of Tralee International Festival will enjoy three days of adventure and fun this August. Details were announced at a press reception at County Hall, Carricklawn.

Organised by Visit Wexford the tour is supported by the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey, and the local tourism industry are proud to showcase the best of what County Wexford has to offer from thrilling adventure, iconic locations, ancient castles, fun sad castle and much more.

Wexford Rose, Bronagh Hogan from Clonroche, is very excited to welcome her 31 Rose sisters to  south-east coastal county and become acquainted with those who are supporting her on her journey as the 2023 Wexford Rose.

Speaking at the launch, Paul Finegan, General Manager of Ashdown Park Hotel, said:“We are honoured to be the official hospitality partners again this year as the Ashdown Park Hotel hosts the Roses on the return of the Wexford Rose Tour 2023. We are really looking forward to welcoming the Roses who will travel from all over Ireland and across the world to visit and stay with us at the 4-star Ashdown Park Hotel in Gorey during the duration of the tour.

Steve Cronly, The Rose of Tralee International Festival Operations Director, said: “Going off the magnificent hospitality we were greeted with in County Wexford during last year’s Wexford Rose Tour, we are most excited to return this August. It will bring Roses from all over the world together for the first time as they arrive for two magnificent days of fun in sunny Wexford. We would like to thank Wexford County Council, the Ashdown Park Hotel, Visit Wexford and the wonderful tourist attractions across Wexford for welcoming the Roses to enjoy their time here as they make unforgettable memories across the county.” 

Elizabeth Hore, Director of Service Economic Development & Planning at Wexford County Council, said:“Tourism in County Wexford has undoubtedly seen continued success with the county consistently reaching the highest hotel occupancy in Ireland over the past three years. With both domestic and international visitors in mind, we would love to continue this success and really share the love for this beautiful county in Ireland’s Ancient East. The brand partnership between Wexford County Council, Ashdown Park Hotel and the Rose of Tralee International Festival opens doors and offers unique opportunities for the sunny southeast in a modern, fun and exciting way by supporting and promoting the Wexford Rose Tour, especially with its return.”

New houses launched at Rosslare Strand

Opening Phase One of the Rosetown Housing Development at Rosslare Strand on Friday last.

By Dan Walsh

Minister James Browne told WexfordLocal.com that it was a pleasure to officially launch Phase One of the 23-houses at Baile an Róigh at Rosetown Housing Development, Rosslare Strand with Cllr Lisa McDonald, Cathaoirleach of Rosslare Municipal last Friday.

Minister Browne said this is a €9 million investment in 32 social houses in Rosslare Strand, and on the same occasion, the sod was turned on Phase Two and the work is being undertaken by Mythen Construction.

Attendance included Cllrs Ger Carthy, Jim Moore, Jim Codd and Frank Staples, Cllr George Lawlor, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, CEO of Wexford County Council Tom Enright and Manager of Rosslare District Nóirín Cummins.

Man (30s) charged with robbery at Kilanerin

Murphy’s GALA Store and Post Office in the centre of Kilanerin village where a robbery took place on Saturday.

A man in his 30’s who was arrested and charged following a robbery at Murphy’s Gala Store in Kilanerin yesterday (Saturday) appeared before a special sitting of Gorey District Court today (Sunday).

It appears that soon after 1pm while staff were serving a customer and the till was open when the man, who was armed with a knife, grabbed some cash and fled the store. However, outside another member of staff had closed a gate and blocked his car so he couldn’t drive away.

It appears he fled on foot around the village, but locals were alerted to his actions and pinned him down where he was held until Gardaí arrived and he was arrested and taken from the scene.

No injuries were reported.

Enniscorthy battle on Rebellion Day

The Red Coats were back on the streets today as Enniscorthy commemorated Rebellion Day.

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy

The strong smell of gunpowder, the crackle of gunfire and the boom of the cannon rang out over Enniscorthy this afternoon for the annual Rebellion Day commemorations.

Events began at the National 1798 Rebellion Centre for Camp Day with stalls, food, a display of weapons and information about them from the ’98 era and music in pleasant summer conditions.

There was a march of pikemen and red coats along John Street to Market Square where a large crowd gathered to watch re-enactors exchange gunfire in a spirit of commemoration exhibiting living history.

The inter-action continued at the bottom of Slaney Street and along the Capt. William Barker bridge onto the Vinegar Hill side of the town before dispersing at Abbey Square.

Participants included Lord Edward’s Own group, the Battle of Ashbourne Historical Re-enactment Group, In Humbert’s Footsteps from Mayo and the Enniscorthy Historical Re-enactment Society.

It was a well organised event with everything going according to plan and a large crowd turned out in the streets to appreciate the display of history and heritage.

1798 events continue on Wednesday evening with The Longest Day commemoration on Vinegar Hill while next Sunday there are commemorations at Killanne, starting at 1pm and Ballymurn beginning at 3.30pm and the public is welcome to attend.

O’Neill and Bowe are champions again

Pictured at the annual Point-to-Point racing awards night in Hotel Minella, Clonmel, are (left to right), Brigid O’Neill, Barry O’Neill, Colin Bowe and Fiona Bowe.

By Dan Walsh

The 42nd annual Point-to-Point racing awards were presented at a function in Hotel Minella, Clonmel, last weekend where two Wexford sportsmen were feted – champion rider Barry O’Neill and champion handler Colin Bowe.

Barry O’Neill is The Irish Field Champion rider for the sixth time with 64 winners from 195 rides which is a strike rate of 33%. He had eight falls during the season. He also took the Horse Racing Ireland Northern Championship and the Horse Racing Ireland Eastern Championship.

Other Wexford riders who shared in the 2022-23 season success were Rob James (32), Jack Hendrick (22), Bertie Finn (15), Luke Murphy, Tiernan Power Roche and James Walsh (9 wins each).

Kiltealy-based Colin Bowe is the Race Displays Ireland Leading Handler – his 9th title – with 46 wins from 233 runners representing a strike-rate of 20%. Bowe only needs only four more winners to hit the 500-career winner mark and it should be noted that 41 of his 46 successes in the 2022-23 season were ‘maidens’.

Other Wexford handlers who performed well includes Donnchadh Doyle (25), Sean Doyle (19), Denis Murphy (15), Mary Ellen Doyle (11) and Harley Dunne (10).

Enniscorthy Rockin’ till August

MARK KAVANAGH, Vice-Chairman of Wexford Food Family, CLLR AIDAN BROWNE, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, who performed the official launch, and CLAIRE LAWLESS, Enniscorthy Municipal District Manager at the launch of the 2023 Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival held in Enniscorthy Castle on Friday night.

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Castle

There was an air of celebration and festivity at the official launch of the 8th annual Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival takes place over the August Bank Holiday weekend and details of this year’s event were unveiled at a special launch at Enniscorthy Castle last evening (Friday).

Festival Chairman, Eric Barron explained that the festival organisers are excited to collaborate with local musicians, chefs, and food producers to curate an unparalleled experience that celebrates the essence of rock ‘n’ roll music and the culinary arts.

Mr Barron said that about 70 food vendors from all over Ireland will attend; the idea of the festival is to support local food producers, there will be a fireworks display to open the festival on The Promenade, courtesy of Colm Neville and the Riverside Park Hotel, the big Ferris Wheel is returning and celebrity chef Kevin Dundon will be in town.

Mr. Barron said last year’s festival brought 50,000 visitors to the town and he envisages that “this year’s event is going to be even bigger and even better for the town.”

It was pointed out that the full programme of events hasn’t been finalised, but plenty family fun activity will bring Enniscorthy to life on the August Bank Holiday.

Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council praised the event and wished the organisers well. Mark Kavanagh, Vice-chairman of the Wexford Food Family also addressed the large, invited attendance and encouraged everybody to support local produce and expressed his delight at being part of the festival.

The festival aims to bring together a diverse community, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared passion for music and food.

The organisers have designed an all-inclusive event with families in mind.  There will be a variety of free and low-cost activities, games, and kid-friendly food options, ensuring that families can enjoy a memorable day out together.

Visitors can expect a diverse Artisan Food, Drink & Craft market, a booming food marquee showcasing the best of Wexford culinary talent and food producers and a Rock ‘n’ Roll Gig Trail of over 30 live gigs around the town throughout the weekend.

The Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival attracts a huge number of visitors to Enniscorthy throughout the weekend and plays an important role both socially and economically for Enniscorthy and the wider community. For many, it is the highlight of the summer festival calendar for locals and visitors to County Wexford.