WexfordLocal.com

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.

Call to “get energy costs under control”

By Dan Walsh

Sinn Féin TD for the Wicklow-Wexford Constituency, Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin has called on the Government to support Sinn Féin’s proposals to end the rip-off and get energy costs under control.

Speaking in Dáil Éireann as Sinn Féin published a motion to put an end to Ireland’s rip-off energy costs, Deputy Ó Súilleabháin hit out at Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael for their decades of inaction and failure to take on energy companies.

Teachta Ó Súillebháin also called for local support. “I am calling on Malcom Byrne TD and Brian Brennan TD to step up to the plate and adopt Sinn Féin’s proposals, and support struggling households in Wicklow- Wexford and across the rest of the country,” he said.

“It is time to hold energy companies to account, protect ordinary people and end the rip-off for good, said Teachta Ó Súileabhain, who added; “Over the last few weeks, Energia, Flogas, Bord Gáis Energy and SSE Airtricity have all announced double-digit increases in the cost of energy. This is another body blow to households already crippled with the cost of living.

He continued; “Workers and families in my constituency of Wicklow- Wexford and across the country are being hammered with soaring prices at every turn. Now they are being forced to fork out hundreds of additional euros on their bills.

“Ireland already has the highest electricity prices in Europe. At a time when the cost of living has never been higher, it is unbelievable that government would choose to make this worse.

“It is not right that ordinary households face a disproportionate burden while large energy users are not expected to pay their fair share,” said Teachta Ó Súilleabhain, who added; “We would also provide the investment needed so that not only is the renewable transition expanded and accelerated, but we would also ensure that public ownership is prioritised.”

Big names at 19th New Ross piano festival

**DR. JOHN O’CONOR. Renowned Dublin-born pianist and pedagogue and former director of the Royal Irish Academy of Music is appearing at the New Ross International Piano Festival on Friday afternoon.**

By Dan Walsh

The 19^th New Ross International Piano Festival takes place this week – Wednesday, September 24^th-Sunday, September 28^th – at St. Mary’s Church of Ireland, New Ross, featuring today’s most outstanding pianists.

The festival will host pianists of all ages from a variety of backgrounds from the young Irish pianist David Vasey at the start of his career to the doyen of Irish pianists, John O’Conor.

There are also new names coming to New Ross, like the German-Greek pianist Donae Dórken making her Irish debut presenting her new Odyssey programme with a mix and familiar of new, while the Hungarian pianist Daniel Labhardt offers a programme of Liszt masterpieces, including the momentous B minor Sonata.

Artistic Director of New Ross Piano Festival for many years now, Finghin Collins presents a programme of his new CD inspired by the great piano manufacturer Pleyel.

The award-winning Castalian Quartet from the UK will team up with three other pianists for a performance of cracking quintets by Brahms, Bloch and Dvorak.

Two young competition winners will perform at the coffee concerts; Malaysian pianist Magdalene Ho who stole the hearts of the jury at the 2023 Clara Haskil Competition in Switzerland while Japanese pianist Shunta Morimoto carried off the first prize in Hastings in 2022.

A new Saturday afternoon concert presents the charismatic Duo Pianistico in a popular ‘Stride and Swing’ programme.

This is always an enjoyable event, and the organisers would love to see as many as possible in those seats!

To book tickets call St. Michael’s Theatre (051 421255, or book online www.stmichaelsnewross.com.

For further festival information contact www.newrosspianofestival.com

Deputy Brian Brennan with Irish delegation in New York.

**DEPUTY BRIAN BRENNAN TD at the General Assembly Hall at United Nations Headquarters in New York today.**

By Dan Walsh

Fine Gael TD for Wicklow Wexford, Brian Brennan is attending the 80^th United Nations General Assembly in New York as part of the Irish Government Delegation where world leaders will gather to discuss the greatest challenges facing the world today.

Deputy Brennan has been selected for this delegation due to his consistently strong voice in relation to Gaza, particularly in regarding the slaughter of children throughout the conflict.

Speaking from New York, Deputy Brennan told WexfordLocal.com; “I am honoured to have been selected as part of this delegation. We have all witnessed on our phone screens and TV screens the horrors that have unfolded over the last two years and it is hard to escape some of the images.

“I myself travelled to Egypt in July this year to meet with NGO’s on the ground and to talk to some of the Palestinian people who have been displaced, injured and have lost everything and everyone who are currently seeking refuge having been driven from their own land.”

Yesterday (Monday), the United Nations resumed the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia. The Conference sought to reaffirm international commitments to the two-State solution and seek to mobilise support for its implementation.

10 countries would formally recognised Palestinian statehood at the meeting — Andorra, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Luxembourg, Portugal, Malta, Britain and San Marino alongside France.

Today (Tuesday) at the General Debate — the annual meeting of Heads of State and Government, world leaders will make statements outlining their positions and priorities in the context of complex and interconnected global challenges.

Among the key speakers will be President of the United States, Donal Trump.

Both the Taoiseach, Michael Martin and Tanaiste, Simon Harris will attend along with representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Speaking in advance of the meetings, Brennan stated: “we simply must demand a ceasefire and the EU must play a stronger part in accomplishing this. That includes looking at the EU/Israel trade agreement.

“I’ve attended so many events and functions the length and breadth of Wicklow and Wexford and have met so many constituents and I could not the count the number of times that I’ve been asked to fight for a resolution to this atrocity,” concluded Deputy Brennan.