WexfordLocal.com

Update on Gorey health projects

By Dan Walsh

Fine Gael TD for Wicklow-Wexford Deputy Brian Brennan requested “an update on behalf of the people of Gorey on the new ambulance station and the primary healthcare centre”, with the Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill in Dail Éireann yesterday (Friday) and the outcome appears to be ‘positive’.

Deputy Brennan said; “Gorey is one of the fastest-growing towns in Ireland. Come summertime, an extra 40,000 people move in between Courtown, Castletown, Ballymoney and these areas. We just do not have the medical infrastructure to cater for these people.

“We feel the primary healthcare centre has been pushed down the line. The current module is not fit for purpose. The ambulance staff are dedicated professionals but currently operate from a prefab building. This is simply not acceptable in 2025. The people of Gorey really deserve an update on both of those issues, added Deputy Brennan.

In reply, Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said; “I know he (Deputy Brennan) has been a very strong advocate for the Gorey primary care centre, the need for which has been well identified. A tender process has been undertaken. As he is aware, a preferred provider had been selected, with a letter of intent issued in 2019. Unfortunately, that selected preferred provider encountered difficulties regarding economic viability resulting in the collapse of the process in 2024.

“To facilitate the readvertisement of this primary care centre, a full review was taken with relevant stakeholders. A number of stakeholders require accommodation in that centre and a scope has been established. That review is now complete, and a tender process is under way.

“The stage 1 tender advertisement was published on 24 June 2025. Stage 1 expressions of interest were received and evaluated, and letters have now issued to all parties. The readvertisement and retender process for the project are necessary under the procurement rules.

**Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, Minister for Health.**

“On the ambulance service, HSE capital and estates, in collaboration with the National Ambulance Service, has identified and agreed a suitable facility for use as an NAS ambulance base and is in the process of securing approval to purchase same, subject to planning approval being obtained.

“The facility will require capital investment to fit it out as a purpose-built ambulance base. The NAS and HSE capital and estates have completed the necessary documentation to facilitate the progression of the project in Quarter 4 of 2025.

“The HSE is working to appoint a design team in this quarter, with the aim of developing and submitting a planning application in early 2026 to progress the project. Those are two important updates for Gorey,” concluded Minister Carroll MacNeill.

Enhancing community safety countywide

By Dan Walsh

The Wexford Local Community Safety partnership was officially launched with its first meeting at the Council Chamber in Wexford on Tuesday.

The partnership will expand joint policing committees to include wider community, voluntary, and statutory involvement, all working to improve safety across the county.

Wexford County Council will oversee the partnership and report to the National Office for Community Safety within the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.

Wexford is the first county to conduct a partnership meeting to start the process of creating a three-year Local Community Safety Plan for the county.

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O’Callaghan said: “I am extremely pleased that the Wexford Local Community Safety Partnership has been established, and its first meeting has taken place. This marks another significant step on the rollout of these partnerships nationwide and this government’s new approach to community safety.

“The next step for this Partnership is to develop and implement its own, tailored community safety plan. The National Office of Community Safety based in my department will be on-hand to support the Partnership as it begins its important work.”

“Bringing together local representatives, community groups and state agencies allows Wexford Local Community Safety Partnership to develop a plan that identifies community safety needs in their own area.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved in Wexford LCSP for being part of this significant new chapter in community safety. I look forward to following their progress,” concluded Minister O’Callaghan.

Wexford convent becomes student housing

**The scene outside the former Adoration Convent on Bride Street, Wexford, last Wednesday, as the conversion to student accommodation commenced.** (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

By Dan Walsh at Adoration Convent, Wexford

Wexford County Council and Georgia Southern University of Savannah are celebrating commencement of extensive refurbishment of the historic Adoration Convent on Bride Street, Wexford, which is being converted into modern student accommodation.

The €6.5 million project, delivered in partnership between Wexford County Council and Georgia Southern University, will see the full refurbishment of the former Adoration Convent and when completed in early 2027, the building will provide housing for up to 56 students from Georgia Southern University, with study, recreation, cooking, and laundry facilities, creating a vibrant international student hub in the heart of Wexford Town.

Speaking at the ceremony, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr. Joe Sullivan said; “Today marks not just the beginning of a building project, but the start of an exciting new chapter for one of Wexford’s most iconic and beloved landmarks. The redevelopment of the Adoration Convent is a symbol of continuity and renewal, preserving the fabric of our history while adapting it to meet present and future needs.”

Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, highlighted the importance of the partnership between Wexford County Council and Georgia Southern University.

“This project represents an investment in both heritage and education. Georgia Southern University has been a valued part of our community since 2019 and today’s groundbreaking deepens that relationship — providing a long-term base for their students and strengthening ties that will endure for generations,” said Mr. Taaffe.

Dr. Kyle Marrero, President of Georgia Southern University, reflected on the significance of the moment; “Today marks both an ending and a beginning. For 133 years, this convent was home to the Adoration Sisters, whose presence filled it with purpose and service. As we reimagine this space, we honour their legacy while creating a home away from home for our students. This project embodies gratitude for the past and confidence for the future, strengthening the bonds between Wexford and Georgia.”

The redevelopment follows a 15-year lease agreement between Wexford County Council and Georgia Southern University. The project not only secures the future of a treasured heritage building but also expands Wexford’s role as a centre for international education, cultural exchange, and opportunity.

Nevin Construction of Waterford won the project contract. Bernard Nevin, Managing Director was in attendance

In the shadow of the former Adoration Convent on Wexford’s Bride Street were (left to right); Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive Wexford County Council; Cllr Joe Sullivan, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council; Dr. Kyle Marrero, President of Geogia Southern University; Mayor of Wexford Cllr Gary Laffan; and Dr. Avinardan Mukherjee, Provost and Executive Vice-President Georgia Southern University. (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

HISTORY; Built in 1886 by pioneering businesswoman Mary O’Connor — known locally as “The Builder”, the convent was home to the Sisters of Perpetual Adoration for more than 130 years. Their legacy of prayer and service continues to be cherished in the local community.

The property was acquired from The Sisters of Perpetual Adoration for €600,000 in 2022. It has been empty since the November 2019, when the final seven Sisters of Perpetual Adoration in Wexford departed from their Bride Street convent and moved to Newtown Road.

Working to restore water in Ballindaggan extended

By Dan Walsh

Uisce Éireann are progressing with works to restore normal water supply to homes and businesses in Ballindaggan following an interruption to supply at the Ballindaggan Water Treatment Plant earlier this week.

While Uisce Éireann crews are currently on site carrying out restoration works, given the complexity of the repairs, the restoration time has been extended to 4pm on Friday, October 3rd.

Uisce Éireann’s Padraig Lyng said; “Uisce Éireann would like to apologise for the inconvenience of the extended nature of this unplanned outage and would like to thank customers for their support while our crews work to ensure that a normal water supply is returned to those impacted as quickly and safely as possible.”

Alternative water supplies are available at Ballindaggan Church.

Customers are advised to bring their own containers and to boil the water before use as a precaution.

Uisce Éireann’s Padraig Lyng has assured customers that every effort is being made to restore a full water supply as quickly as possible. “We understand the inconvenience of an unplanned outage and we thank customers for their support while our works continue.”

Typically, it takes two to three hours following repairs for normal supply to restore to all customers affected by an unplanned outage. However, it may take longer for normal supply to be restored to customers at the end of the network or on higher ground as the system recharges.

New games area and playground opens in Maudlintown

At the Playful Spaces launch in Maudlintown were (left to right); Siobhain Hayden, Southend Family Resource Centre, Cllr Catherine Walsh, Mayor Cllr Gary Laffan, Cllr Leonard Kelly, Chair of Healthy County Committee, Emma Cormack, local resident, Zac Goldsmith, Wexford County Council, and Annette Dupuy, Healthy Wexford.

By Dan Walsh

Healthy Wexford and Wexford County Council, supported by the Healthy Ireland Fund, have added a new games area and playground markings in Maudlintown, Wexford town, to make the green space more playful for everyone.

Replacing an obsolete piece of playground equipment, the development, which was led by the Insurance Risk Management team at Wexford County Council and developed in consultation with Southend Family Resource centre, aims to encourage greater social connection and physical activity, through intergenerational play opportunities and play for all.

The new equipment includes a Foosball Table, a Racing Game Panel, and a Connect Four Panel. This is complemented by new playground markings allowing for a range of throwing games that can be adapted by age.

Mayor of Wexford Cllr Gary Laffan said; “I welcome these playful additions as it is recognised that outdoor spaces such as parks and playgrounds are important sites for community integration, belonging, and health and wellbeing.”

Cllr Leonard Kelly, Chair of the Healthy County Committee added; “The addition of these materials makes the space intergenerational, allowing for play within and across ages and increases fee-free social connection opportunities in the area.”

Siobhain Hayden of Southend Family Resource Centre, who was involved in the consultation phase, said; “With the addition of both the equipment and the playground markings we see so many opportunities for those we work with in the centre. While obviously a great addition for the youth, this space also provides an opportunity for us to engage our men’s and women’s groups in a different way and allows the community to have a space that is truly for all.”

Southend Family Resource Centre will hold both Foosball table balls and mini beanbags which can be borrowed for use during the centre opening hours.

Jim Bolger’s stud farm listed for sale

By Dan Walsh

Renowned racehorse trainer Jim Bolger has listed Redmondstown Stud for sale, with a guide price of €975,000. The property will be offered at auction by Keane Auctioneers, Custom House Quay, Wexford, on Friday, October 17th at 12:30pm.

Jim and Jackie Bolger bought the 84-acre Oylegate farm in 1990, producing seven classic winners and 18 Group 1 winners.

Set in a west-facing position with a private driveway and views of the River Slaney, Redmondstown has 24 stables, an eight-horse walker, lunging area, outbuildings, tack room, four-span hayshed, canteen with WC and a service road through the farm.

Located on a quiet country road near the village of Oylegate, there is sure to be plenty of interest in the auction which Keane Auctioneers describe as a “very impressive equestrian establishment”.

Born on Christmas Day 1941 at Coolnaboy, Oylegate, Jim Bolger began his training career in the Phoenix Park with stables in Clonsilla, Dublin, in 1976. Around 1990, he had moved to his current base, Glebe House in Coolcullen, on the Carlow/Kilkenny border. He has trained in the region of 3,000 winners and is also an extremely successful as a breeder.

Bunclody River Slaney information meeting

**The River Slaney at Bunclody Bridge** (File Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

By Dan Walsh

The Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) will hold a community information meeting about water quality on Tuesday, September 30th at 7pm in the Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club, Bunclody (Y21 N922). Members of the public, including community groups and interested individuals, are invited to attend.

The Slaney Catchment, spanning parts of Wicklow, Carlow, and much of Wexford, is one of five pilot sites in Ireland. The meeting will update progress on creating a pilot Catchment Community Forum for the Slaney.

The pilot is scheduled to operate for several more years. The meeting will address water quality and project funding related to water quality initiatives in the Slaney Catchment.

The meeting follows last year’s successful full-day workshop with community groups and catchment representatives.

This initiative encourages public involvement in Ireland’s Water Action Plan (2024–2027), which outlines how water quality will be restored and protected across all 46 river catchments.

A key part of the River Basin Management Plan is establishing a Catchment Community Forum to involve local communities in water quality issues.

The Slaney catchment was chosen due to its role in the South East region, the characteristics of water quality issues present, and the involvement of local community groups.

The Catchment Community Forum (CCF) is designed as a consultative platform focusing on water quality issues in the Slaney area. It will serve as a channel for regional and national decision-making processes concerning the management of natural waters in the Slaney Catchment.

**The River Slaney flowing from Carlow into County Wexford.** (Pic; *LAWPRO*)

The CCF will enable local discussion of water quality data, support community initiatives, and offer a way to impact environmental plans and projects, such as Local Catchment Management Plans.

Tuesday’s meeting will cover the structure of the Slaney Catchment Community Forum, ways to participate, and the nomination process.

This meeting is being held as one of five pilot areas in Ireland, as part of the Water Action Plan, to examine ways of incorporating community perspectives into catchment management work plans. Public participation in water management is included as an element in efforts to protect and restore water quality nationwide.

New book tells the stories of Kings and Saints

By Dan Walsh

A new book on Ferns’ history and heritage, Beneath the Ground of Kings and Saints; The Archaeology & History of Ferns, County Wexford by Barry Lacey, was launched Thursday night at The Book Centre in Wexford.

The work was launched by Chris Corlett, archaeologist at the National Monument Service who endorsed the publication and commended author Barry Lacey on his research and publication which further enriches the strong history and heritage found in Ferns.

Archaeologist Barry Lacey thanked Mr Corlett for launching the book, acknowledged those who helped with research and preparation, and expressed gratitude to his family and attendees. Catherine McPartlan acted as master of ceremonies.

Ferns is famous in Irish history. From the end of the 6^th century, it became an important monastic site under St. Aidan and in the 12^th century was the home of Dermot MacMurrough, the then King of Leinster, before later becoming a Norman stronghold.

The book is aimed at a general audience and takes the reader through the prehistoric, medieval and early modern periods, explaining the various characteristics of each and what evidence has been found for them in Ferns. Various illustrations, photos and maps provide a visual aid to the reader that simplifies and encourages them to engage with the information. As well as showcasing archaeology within the village, the results of investigations at the nearby medieval church site at Clone are also included.

**BARRY LACEY** (File Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

The author of this work is Barry Lacey from Ballycarney, a short distance outside the village of Ferns and from a young age had a keen interest in local history and heritage. Ferns proximity and family ties meant he regularly frequented growing up with his grandfather Peter owning a bike shop along the Main Street, just under the shadow of Ferns Castle.

Barry graduated from University College Cork with a Higher Diploma in Archaeology and a Masters in Archaeological Excavation. He served as the first Historian-in-Residence at Wexford County Public Library Services and has given presentations to local history groups and communities.

Beneath the Ground of Kings and Saints; The Archaeology & History of Ferns, County Wexford’ compiled by Barry Lacey, published by Wordwell, 244 pages, Paperback, ISDN; 9781916742239. €25. Available at the Medieval Ferns Experience at Ferns Community Centre and at all good local bookshops and online.

Local artists support mental health charity

**Jean Maskell (left) and Michelle O’Neill (right) presenting Wally O’Neill with a cheque for €100 for a ‘*It’s Good 2 Talk’* fundraiser at Red Books in Wexford.**

By Dan Walsh

Acclaimed local artists Michelle O’Neill and Jean Maskell presented Wally O’Neill with a cheque for €100 for an ‘It’s Good 2 Talk’ fundraiser at Red Books, Peter’s Square, in Wexford town.

Michelle and Jean donated bookmarks featuring their paintings, which were purchased by customers at the bookshop.

Wally O’Neill told WexfordLocal.com; “Being so much part of the local community, we do as much as we can to help local people. It’s great to have support from artists who are also regulars and involved in the wider cultural activities in the shop.”

Michelle and Jean will be exhibiting together at the Wexford Fringe Festival in the lobby at Clayton Whites Hotel during the forthcoming Wexford Opera Festival.

The Wexford based charity ‘It’s Good 2 Talk’ provides counselling, psychotherapy and services for anyone who needs support dealing with abuse, addiction, anxiety, relationship issues, depression, bereavement or anything else causing worry.

Details of their services can be found on their website www.Itsgood2talk.ie or contact by ‘phone on 053 9126 596.

Fr. Eustace served in Ferns, Our Lady’s Island and Enniscorthy

By Dan Walsh

The death has taken place of Fr. Thomas (Tommy) Eustace well-known and respected retired and former Parish Priest of Our Lady’s Island, Ferns, and Administrator at St. Aidan’s Cathedral, Enniscorthy.

A native of Loughnageer, Foulksmills, he was educated locally and at St. Peter’s College, Wexford, where he was ordained on June 5^th, 1960, by Most. Rev. Dr. Staunton, Bishop of Ferns.

His first appointment was to the parish of Ferns, where he served as curate until September 1961, when he was appointed curate at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Rowe St, Wexford. For a period, he was Chaplain at Wexford County Hospital.

In January 1965 he was transferred to St. Aidan’s Parish, Enniscorthy, where he was appointed Administrator at St. Aidan’s Cathedral in July 1976.

Fr. Eustace was appointed Parish Priest at Our Lady’s Island in February 1989 where he is credited with building the Community Centre and carrying out major repairs to the church and became Parish Priest of Ferns in September 1995. He retired from ministry in August 2005. He is a former member of Rosslare Golf Club.

FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of Fr. Thomas (Tommy) Eustace, The Cools, Barntown, Wexford.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Fr Tommy Eustace, retired and former Parish Priest of Our Lady’s Island, Ferns, and Administrator at St. Aidan’s Cathedral, Enniscorthy.

Tommy is predeceased by his parents, John and Catherine Eustace, and his siblings, Seán, Martin, Richie, Bridie, Kathleen, Paddy, and Billy. Tommy will be sadly missed by his sister-in-law and brother-in law, nephews and nieces, extended family, many friends, former parishioners, Bishop Ger Nash and Clergy of the Diocese, extended family and friends.

May He Rest in Peace

Reposing in Ryan’s Funeral Home, Wellingtonbridge on Friday, September 26^th from 2.30pm with removal at 6.30pm to St. Aidan’s Church, Clongeen arriving for reception Prayers at 7pm. Funeral Mass on Saturday at 1pm with burial afterwards in the New Cemetery Clongeen.