News and Sport and Events that matter across County Wexford.
By Dan Walsh
Gorey Fire Service assisted units from Arklow and Wicklow at a major fire at The Croghan Industrial Estate in Arklow on Sunday afternoon.
The Arklow Fire Service team were quickly to the scene as it was located in the same estate, the blaze was quickly brought under control and extinguished due to the quick response.
There were no reports of any injuries, and the cause of the blaze is not known at this time.
By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Castle
The Digital Survey of a Swordsman in the Dungeon was officially launched this evening at Enniscorthy Castle by Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District Council as part of the ‘Writing on the Wall’ autumnal exhibition.
Cllr Browne said he was delighted to unveil the exhibition and acknowledged that Enniscorthy Castle is home to a rare piece of medieval graffito, incised in the dungeon wall – a one-metre-tall figure with sword in hand and this work of wall art from times past is the centre piece.
Manager Mico Hassett explained that an archaeological report was completed in 2012 and thanks to Heritage Council funding it was recommended a full digital survey of the swordsman figure. “Originally referred to as a Halberdier, the figure is in fact, a swordsman thought to date to the late 16th century. Further funding allowed us to complete the digital survey using 3D laser imaging, 3D photogrammetry and 2D RTI imaging,” she concluded.
Eve Furlong, Deputy Manager of Enniscorthy Castle said; “The 3D print allows us to bring the Swordsman out of the dungeon and into the main exhibition space of the Castle, which creates better accessibility, opportunities for up-close engagement and additional educational materials to be showcased.”
Lisa Byrne, Visual Arts Manager at the Presentation Arts Centre spoke about the popularity of the Enniscorthy Walls Project showcasing wall art or murals that adorn parts of the town and aspects of this project are incorporated into the ‘Writing on the Wall’ which will be open for public viewing at the castle until October 31st.
This evening’s launch is part of the Heritage Week programme and the attendance included Catherine McLoughlin, County Heritage Officer, Deputy Johnny Mythen, Cllrs Barbara-Anne Murphy and Kathleen Codd-Nolan, members of the local media and other invited guests.
Admission to the exhibition is €6 with a family of five just €15, making it a great value proposition for a tour. The full display explores the history of graffiti and wall art from the Neolithic to the present day. The focus on political graffiti, the rise of graffiti in the 80’s and the local Enniscorthy Walls Project offers patrons plenty of insight to graffiti art through the ages from across the world.
By Dan Walsh
The M11 northbound lane between junctions 24 (Frankfort/Clough) and 25 (Ballydawmore/Enniscorthy is closed to traffic after a trailer loaded with straw caught fire and spread onto the embankment sending high flames and smoke into the air.
The incident occurred around 4pm this afternoon. Sources at the scene say that the tractor was disconnected from the burning trailer load and was saved from damage. No injuries are reported.
Emergency services including units of Enniscorthy and Gorey Fire Services are at the scene.
A major clean-up and safety procedures are in place.
Roadusers are advised that the M11 northbound lane will be closed for a number of hours and diversions are taking place through Enniscorthy.
By Dan Walsh
A one hour guided tour with personal commentary by Jeremy Hill on the heritage of landscape and garden at Monksgrange next Sunday will commence at 2pm. Outdoor footwear is suggested.
You will hear about the role of landscape trees, admire the oaks of the original avenue planted in 1750 and hear about design principles of the later curved avenue and the importance of a ‘burst.’ The influences of landscape designer Humphrey Repton and the Edwardian Arts and Crafts garden designers Gertrude Jekyll and Edwin Lutyens will be discussed during the walk.
At 3.30pm a seminar will be presented in The Gallery. Anthony Hobbs will present the Edward Richards-Orpen Memorial Trust 2022 Annual lecture: The photography of historian Goddard Orpen (1852-1932). Archivist Lesley Whiteside will present an update on the latest news from Monksgrange Archives including the installation of a made-to-order storage chest for the map collection. The acquisition of this chest has been supported by a 2022 Heritage Council grant.
The afternoon is free of charge, but seminar seats are limited and must be booked in advance. It is essential to book for the seminar talks as seating is limited.
WexfordLocal.com is advised that this event has sold out online.
Presented by Monksgrange Archives and the Edward Richards-Orpen Memorial Trust in association with National Heritage Week 2022. https://www.heritageweek.ie/event-listings/monksgrange-heritage-open-afternoon. email: grangearchives@gmail.com
By Dan Walsh
Gardaí are seeking the public’s assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 15-year-old youths Charli and Ruby McGlynn who were last seen in the Bridgetown area at approximately 6.30pm on Saturday, August 13th.
Charli is described as approximately 5 foot 6 inches in height with a slim build, brown hair and brown eyes. When last seen, Charli was wearing a black hoody, black shorts and black shoes with white laces.
Ruby is described as approximately 5 foot 4 inches in height with a slim build, brown hair and brown eyes. When last seen, Ruby was wearing a white singlet with a pink flower on the front, grey shorts and flip-flops.
Both Charli and Ruby are known to frequent the Blanchardstown area of Dublin.
Anyone with information on Charli and Ruby’s whereabouts is asked to contact Wexford Garda Station on 053 9165200, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
By Dan Walsh
Many tributes are paid to former State Solicitor and supporter of events in Gorey over many decades, Jack McEvoy, The Avenue, Gorey, who will be laid to rest today in St. Michael’s Cemetery following Requiem Mass in St. Michael’s Church, Gorey.
A solicitor by profession, Mr McEvoy set up practice in Gorey in 1953, but he was a most popular member of the community and was associated with most events happening in Gorey. He is particularly recognised for his dedication to the Gorey Summer Fair Committee.
Gorey Meals on Wheels were amongst those paying tribute to Mr McEvoy and passing sympathies to his family. “It is with great sadness we hear of the passing of our former Meals On Wheels Chairperson, Jack McEvoy. Deeply involved in so many community groups, he made such an amazing contribution to the town’s community, responding to its social needs through organisations such as the Meals On Wheels (and our predecessor, the Gorey Community Social Services Council). His involvement with Meals On Wheels spanned decades, from volunteering with deliveries to serving as our Chairperson for many years.
“The Meals On Wheels committee express their sympathies to his family and friends on their sad loss” concluded the post on social media.
In a personal capacity I enjoyed a wonderful relationship with Jack McEvoy who was so kind to me at all times in promoting Gorey through the broadcast and print media through the decades and I add my condolences to the multitudes that he truly deserves.
FAMILY NOTICE; The death has taken place of Jack McEvoy, The Avenue, Gorey, (after a short illness bravely borne in the loving care of the staff of St. Raphael’s Ward, St. Vincent’s University Hospital.
Beloved husband of Angela and loving father of Pat, Sue, Chris, Conor, Declan and Claire. Deeply regretted by his loving wife, sons, daughters, his 18 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, extended family, relatives, neighbours and many friends. May He Rest In Peace.
Removal from Funeral Home today (Thursday) at 1.30 pm to St. Michael’s Church, Gorey for Funeral Mass at 2 pm. followed by burial in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Gorey. House Private Please.
By Dan Walsh
The death has occurred of Gorey resident John Cameron, Oakhill, Ramstown, autobiographer of Boy 11963, a unique account of overcoming almost insurmountable obstacles to find out who he truly was!
At only five months old, John Cameron was abandoned in a Dublin orphanage, and fostered out as a child labourer by age three. In 1944 when he turned eight, he was incarcerated in Artane Industrial School, where he became boy 11963.
In his mid-eighties, John Cameron told his shocking but inspirational story for the first time. As a child, reduced to a number, he survived savage assaults, sexual abuse and the tragic deaths of children around him. Along with other forgotten boys, he battled for his life against the heartless adversity of the church and the Irish state.
As a young man – a much-loved schoolteacher devoted to his growing family – John was haunted by his unknown past and embarked on a lifelong quest to unravel the truth about his origins. Buried in a labyrinth of lies, he finally uncovered a story of forbidden love and passion that scandalised rural Ireland and made national headlines in the 1930s.
John, also known as Jaycee, made Gorey his home some years ago and was admired and respected wherever he went. Cllr Joe Sullivan knew John Cameron well and described him as “the nicest man you could meet” and he offers his sympathy and that of the people of Gorey to his sorrowing wife and family.
FAMILY NOTICE; JOHN CAMERON (also known as Jaycee), Oakhill, Ramstown, Gorey; Beloved Husband of Treasa and loving father of Fiona, Aileen, Shane, Niamh and Brian, brother of Betty, Ada, Marie and the late Una and Joan. Deeply regretted by his loving wife, sons, daughters, grandchildren Emma, Aoife, Patrick, Ómaí, Ellie-Rose, sons-in-law Tim, Jimmy and Tony, extended family, relatives, neighbours and friends in Oakhill and beyond and members of the Parkinson Association Wexford Branch. May He Rest In Peace.
Removal from his home on Thursday, August 18th, at 10.30 am to St. Michael’s Church Gorey for Funeral Mass at 11 am followed by Burial in St. Michael’s Cemetery Gorey.
By Dan Walsh
Enniscorthy Castle is home to a rare piece of medieval graffito, incised in the dungeon wall – a one-metre-tall figure with sword in hand. This work of wall art from times past is the centre piece of the Enniscorthy Castle Autumnal Exhibition ‘Writing on the Wall‘.
Manager Mico Hassett told WexfordLocal.com; “An archaeological report was completed in 2012 on our drawing thanks to Heritage Council funding. They recommended a full digital survey of the swordsman figure. Originally referred to as a Halberdier, the figure is in fact, a swordsman thought to date to the late 16th century. Further funding allowed us to complete the digital survey using 3D laser imaging, 3D photogrammetry and 2D RTI imaging. The data retrieved will allow us to showcase the piece across our main floor and will monitor the condition of the artwork over time too.
“The exhibition centre piece is a full-sized 3D print of the wall art. We will present a video of the survey process and the finished 3D print at our launch event on Friday at 6pm as part of our Heritage Week events,” concluded Ms Hassett.
Eve Furlong, Deputy Manager of Enniscorthy Castle said; “The 3D print allows us to bring the Swordsman out of the dungeon and into the main exhibition space of the Castle, which creates better accessibility, opportunities for up-close engagement and additional educational materials to be showcased. We are utilising exhibition QR codes so visitors can access further information on all our panels from anywhere.”
Admission to the exhibition is €6 with a family of five just €15, making it a great value proposition for a tour. Writing on the Wall – Chisel to Spray Can: Graffito, Graffiti and Wall Art runs in the castle until Halloween (October 31st) with the full display exploring the history of graffiti and wall art from the Neolithic to the present day. The focus on political graffiti, the rise of graffiti in the 80’s and the local Enniscorthy Walls Project offers patrons plenty of insight to graffiti art through the ages from across the world.
By Dan Walsh
Wexford County Council’s Emergency Management Team met early this morning following the intense flooding which affected New Ross on Monday evening. Estimates indicate rainfall of between 30mm and 40mm fell over a period of less than one and half hours, in addition to substantial hail, all of which centred around the main town area.
Serious flood damage has been identified in 30 homes and 38 businesses in the town as of late Monday night. Five units of the County Wexford Fire Service, twelve Civil Defence Personnel and twenty-two outdoor crew members from the District Office attended the scene between 5pm and midnight.
Speaking following a visit to the site, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council Tom Enright said; “What we saw last night in New Ross is unprecedented. This could not have been planned for. It is shocking to see the amount of damage done to homes and businesses in a very short space of time. We are working with the Department of Social Protection and the Irish Red Cross to see supports in place for those affected as soon as possible.
“I would like to thank the emergency workers – roads crews, Fire Service and Civil Defence teams on site last night and again this morning for their efforts to ensure people had safe accommodation, in making our public spaces clean and passable again and for the work that will be needed to repair significant damage to roads and streets in the coming weeks,” concluded Mr Enright.
Roads teams were back on site this morning before 7am to continue the clean-up with sweepers, pump equipment and water tankers to undertake a full wash down of the town area.
Upwards of 12 roads and junctions around the New Ross town area have been severely damaged, and while they remain passable, motorists are urged to slow down and use extreme caution when navigating the town centre.
Roads teams are already undertaking repairs to damaged areas this morning with a view to repairing all damaged roads as quickly as possible.
Businesses and householders in the town area who have been impacted by the flood are encouraged to contact relevant grant scheme providers to determine what financial support may be available to them.
The Department of Social Protection confirmed this morning that they have activated the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme in response to the flash flooding incident. This is an income-tested scheme which provides emergency financial assistance to households who are not able to meet costs for essential needs immediately following flooding.
The scheme aims to provide financial support to people who have suffered damage to their home, particularly where flood insurance is not available. It is designed to alleviate hardship rather than provide full compensation for damage. Householders are encouraged to make contact to discuss their individual circumstances. Contact the National Community Welfare Service phoneline on 0818 60 70 80 or email cwswexford@welfare.ie
It is expected that Government will also announce a humanitarian support scheme for business, community and voluntary groups who have been affected by the flood and who are unable to secure flood insurance. The scheme once approved by Government, will be administered by the Irish Red Cross.
Wexford County Council is liaising with the Department of Enterprise on the scale of the impact to New Ross businesses. The humanitarian scheme is particularly targeted at small business (up to 20 employees) and helps towards the costs of returning business premises to their pre-flood condition. Once the scheme is announced, details will be available on www.redcross.ie and notified on Wexford County Council’s website and twitter feed.
By Dan Walsh
There were frightening weather conditions in New Ross this evening as a massive downpour caused flash flooding in the town with uncontrollable water flowing at speed through the streets and causing several inches of flooding along the Quay.
Heavy downpours and flooding have hit parts of Ireland as thunderstorms marked the end of the heatwave and Met Éireann extended a Status Orange thunderstorm weather warning to 10pm tonight.
One of the worst affected areas was New Ross where the Quays were submerged in water after an estimated 20mm-plus of rain fell in the space of about an hour.
Council staff and the fire service were dealing with flash flooding following heavy rain which accompanied thunder and lightning from early in the evening at New Ross and Wexford County Council posted warnings not to travel in the area while announcements were also made in relation to the Rose Kennedy Bridge over the River Barrow south of New Ross.
In the last hour Independent TD Verona Murphy posted that she was just leaving New Ross town now as Wexford County Council and other emergency services continue to work late into the night.
“All crews and services who have been assisting this evening must be commended for their swift response. The town will be open for business as usual tomorrow morning while the damage continues to be assessed,” said Deputy Murphy, who added; “I join with local elected representatives in calling on government to act quickly in assisting homeowners and business who have been affected by this evenings horrendous weather event.”
Wexford County Council crews are continuing with the clean up into the late hours while the assistance of Wexford Garda Division, New Ross Fire Service, New Ross Civil Defence is also appreciated.
Anyone in need of supports can contact Wexford County Council out of hours emergency line on 053 919 6000 and press 1.
WexfordLocal.com 