WexfordLocal.com

Bunclody online public consultation meeting

The Draft Wexford County Development Plan 2021-2027, which is currently on public display, includes a Settlement Plan for Bunclody town as set out in Volume 3 of the Draft Plan.

In order to facilitate further engagement with the local community on the draft Bunclody Town Settlement Plan, and given the current Covid-19 restrictions around public gatherings, Wexford County Council is hosting an Online Public Consultation meeting via Microsoft Teams on Monday, November 23^rd from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

The meeting will consist of a presentation on the Draft Settlement Plan and a question and answer session. Anyone wishing to attend this online meeting, please register in advance with the Planning Department, either by phoning the Planning Customer Service Unit at 053 9196101 or by emailing forwardplanning@wexfordcoco.ie

Please note that this email address is for the purposes of registering only. It is not to be used for making written submissions or observations on the Draft Plan.

To ensure that everyone is registered and receives the required links in time, requests to register should be received no later than 1pm on the day of the meeting.

The Draft Plan can be viewed online at https://consult.wexfordcoco.ie/ or by appointment at the Planning Department, Block B, Wexford County Council, County Hall, Carricklawn, Wexford, Y35 WY93.

Kilmuckridge and Ardamine in Pride of Place awards

By Dan Walsh

Kilmuckridge village and Glenbeg Point Estate (Ardamine) are among the 82 groups nominated in the virtual 2020 IPB Insurance Pride of Place awards when the 18^th anniversary of the awards take place online due to the Covid-19 pandemic on Saturday, November 21st.

The Pride of Place awards is an annual competition organised by Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance. It promotes and celebrates the best in community development and recognises the selfless efforts of people in making their local area a better place to live, work and socialise. Local authorities from across the island nominate groups in their communities who they feel have made a significant contribution to improving their neighbourhood, working collectively.

Pride of Place Chairperson Tom Dowling said; “The purpose of these awards has never changed. They are about recognising and celebrating the extraordinary, inspirational, and tireless work being done by communities all over the Island of Ireland as they strive to make their place a better place in which to live.

“This year more than ever, the work of our communities was even more important as they managed the challenge of Covid-19 and ensured our vulnerable people were looked after. We are proud to have the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate all the wonderful communities who participated in this year’s awards.”

Dr. Christopher Moran, Chairman Co-operation Ireland added: “Co-operation Ireland has no other programme that embodies the charity’s ethos better than Pride of Place and in 2020 it’s even more important it takes place to recognise the huge efforts of ordinary people during the pandemic.”

George Jones, Chairman, IPB Insurance said: “IPB Insurance is proud to be associated as title sponsors of the IPB Pride of Place Awards and more importantly what they represent. Working together and getting things done increases people’s pride in where they live and in turn helps build vibrant communities.”

Kilmuckridge village and Glenbeg Point Estate (Ardamine) are among the groups nominated in 2020. RTE’s Marty Morrissey will host the event and the awards will be streamed at www.prideofplace.ie

Boil Water Notice issued for SOW water scheme

By Dan Walsh

A Boil Water Notice has been put in place for approximately 9,383 people in the area of the SOW water scheme due to the recent bad weather causing a shutdown at the Killmallock Water Treatment plant, near Ballymurn, and has seen a deterioration in raw water quality at the plant.

The plant is struggling to treat the water to the requisite standard and has forced intermittent plant shutdowns, resulting in outages in the network.

The areas affected by the Boil Water Notice include Ballymurn, Oylegate, Crtossabeg, Oulart, The Ballagh, Glenbrien, Curracloe, Screen, Castlebridge and adjoining areas.

Irish Water’s drinking water compliance and operational experts are working with colleagues in Wexford County Council to resolve the issue as quickly and as safely as possible.

Customers in the aforementioned areas are advised to boil water before use until further notice.

Irish Water has made direct contact with customers registered on the customers register affected by this Boil Water Notice. Irish Water would like to remind customers to follow the HSE COVID-19 advice and ensure frequent handwashing.

For queries regarding this Boil Water Notice, customers should contact Irish Water directly on the customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1850 278 278.

Mgr. Lennon steps down as PP of Clonard

By Dan Walsh

The parish priest of Clonard, Right-Rev. Monsignor Denis Lennon has retired on age grounds, however, he has agreed to continue as curate in the Wexford town parish. Fr Barry Larkin C.C. has been appointed Administrator of Clonard.

Mgr. Lennon’s retirement has been accepted by Bishop Denis Brennan who has congratulated him on his devotion and dedication to the congregation of Clonard and he has welcomed his willingness to continue as curate in the parish. Both appointments are effective immediately.

Mgr. Lennon is a native of Bunclody, ordained 53 years ago, and served 20 years at the House of Missions, Enniscorthy, before two years in Brazil with the Ferns Diocesan Missions, and returned to the House of Missions.

He served as curate in Screen before being appointed parish priest of Clonard on September 17^th, 1994 – over 26 years’ service.

Clonard was part of the parish of Wexford until July 1976 when it was constituted a separate parish. A modern church, it is semi-circular in shape and can seat 650.

‘Rosslare in History’ is released

By Dan Walsh

Exciting plans for the planned launch of the new book, Rosslare in History No 7, published by Rosslare Historical Society by Cllr Ger Carthy, Chairman of Wexford County Council and Tom Enright, Chief Executive Officer, was postponed as the Covid-19 restrictions went to Level 5, however, the good news is that the fine publication has been released for sale.

Valerie Boggan, Secretary of the Society, said the launch scheduled for Friday, October 23^rd, with the attendance of a small number of people at the Community and Recreation Centre in Rosslare and a Zoom broadcast had been postponed, but will be held as soon as Covid-19 rules allow.

Rosslare in History 7, edited by Gerry Breen, contains special articles on events in Rosslare over hundreds of years and is the seventh book of the Rosslare In History series which started in March 2005.

The book is now on sale for €10 at Boggan’s Londis, Grange Road, Rosslare (all proceeds go directly to Rosslare Historical Society). Delivery or postage can be arranged by calling 053 9132590 (postage charge will apply).

The editorial committee of Rosslare Historical Society for Rosslare in History No 7, comprises: Thomas Byrne, Chairman, Valerie Boggan, Secretary, John Roche, Treasurer and Deirdre Delaney, Pat Skillen, Oliver Doyle, Niall Keogh, and Christine Roche, who are committee members.

Further information: Valerie Boggan, 086 8273212, Email: Boggan-Rosslare@Londisretailers.ie

Aldi to pay 10% Christmas bonus

By Dan Walsh

Aldi Ireland has announced a Christmas Bonus for its amazing colleagues, as a ‘Thank You’ to those who have worked tirelessly throughout this challenging year. Store and distribution colleagues will receive a 10% bonus in November, which will be paid in December ahead of the Christmas period.

The announcement recognises the efforts of 4,000 colleagues who have worked to keep the nation fed during an unprecedented year.

Niall O’Connor, Aldi Ireland Group Managing Director said: “This year has been a difficult one for so many and our colleagues have worked tirelessly to ensure the nation continues to have access to high quality affordable food. This bonus is a gesture of our appreciation for our amazing Aldi colleagues who have shown incredible resilience and dedication throughout 2020.”

Aldi employs over 4,500 people and operates a network of 144 stores across the country, with seven stores in Co. Wexford; Goreybridge, Gorey, Ryland Road, Bunclody, Bellefield, Enniscorthy, Marshmeadows, New Ross and in Wexford town at Trinity Street, Clonard Little and Newtown Road.

Aldi is Ireland’s highest paying supermarket and the first supermarket to pay staff the Living Wage Technical Group’s €12.30 rate, which came into effect on February 1^st, 2019.

Aldi currently stocks over 1,800 products and works with over 200 Irish suppliers across Ireland.

Johnstown Castle is ‘a national treasure’

By Dan Walsh

The majestic Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum and Gardens has been nominated for the British Guild of Travel Writer’s (BGTW) International Tourism Awards.

The fairy-tale neo gothic Castle which opened to the public last year is the only Irish visitor attraction to secure a nomination in the prestigious BGTW International Tourism Awards 2020 that recognises excellence in tourism projects.

In 2019 Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum and Gardens was opened featuring a 200-metre servant’s tunnel, a new world-class visitor centre and café plus a playground and stunning lake walks. Situated in 120 acres, the property saw the completion of €7.5m investment by Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine which was overseen by The Irish Heritage Trust.

**Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum and Gardens has been nominated for the British Guild of Travel Writer’s (BGTW) International Tourism Awards.**

Following a visit to this historic property, Travel Writer, Isabel Conway said; I nominated Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens as a national treasure as at last, it is fully accessible to the public for the first time in its history. This jewel of Ireland’s Ancient East has had a roller coaster fascinating history dating back to the arrival of the Normans, offering a snapshot into the privileged lives of the gentry who occupied the sumptuous neo-gothic mansion that evolved from the original turreted building.

Anne O’Donoghue, CEO of The Irish Heritage Trust, an independent not-for-profit which manages and cares for the property said; “We are delighted to be nominated for this international award recognising the huge success to date of Johnstown Castle Estate Museum & Gardens which would not have been possible without the significant involvement of many supporters since our opening. These include the local community, our team of over 120 dedicated volunteers and our 6,000 plus members. Our work at The Irish Heritage Trust is guided by the principles of ‘People, Place and Participation’ because we believe that the greater the number of people who build relationships with special places, the stronger those properties will be into the future”.

The next stage of the awards process is a private guild member voting opportunity to choose a shortlist for the four categories. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony in London in 2021.

Lingstown to Aintree – One For Arthur

11-year-old One For Arthur has been retired having won seven of his 25 races, the highlight being the 2017 Randox Aintree Grand National.

When One For Arthur won the 2017 National it was heralded by the racing press as a win for Scotland because it was trained there by Lucinda Russell, however, the story of the race had strong claims to a Wexford victory and an amazing day’s point-to-pointing at Lingstown.

Purchased at the Derby Sales for €34,000 by Paddy Redmond of the Gorey hotels chain – Amber Springs and Ashdown Park – One For Arthur ran in five point-to-points from the stables of handler Liam Kenny, Craanford, and he showed promise when finishing third at Ballinaboola on November 10^th 2013.

He turned into the winner of the four-year maiden race at Lingstown a fortnight later -on November 24th – when ridden by Barry O’Neill. Third in the race was Blacklion who had travelled from the north to race for Colin McKeever. Both horses were sold on and both played leading roles in the 2017 spectacular at Aintree.

One For Arthur ran all his races in the UK in the ownership of the Two Golf Widows (Belinda McClung and Deborah Thompson) who enjoyed the thrill of the chase and success at the highest level.

The field taking ‘the big bank’ at Lingstown. Aintree Grand National winner One For Arthur won his point-to-point at the Wexford track. (File Pic)

One For Arthur’s greatest steeplechasing displays was cruising through the Grand National field to defeat Cause Of Causes by four and a half lengths. The runner-up had put in a brilliant display and the horse that won his point-to-point maiden at Lingstown deprived local amateur jockey Jamie Codd (Cause of Causes) a victory in the greatest race in the world. Blacklion finished in fourth place that day.

A tendon injury suffered after the National out One For Arthur out of action for 609 days and he was never able to return to the form he showed at Aintree, failing to win in his next six starts.

One For Arthur ran well in the Aintree National of 2019 when finishing sixth behind Tiger Roll. Great Wexford sporting history and certainly one for the table quiz when they return.

“A region moving forward”

By Dan Walsh

The Ireland South East Development Office (ISEDO) has welcomed the significant government investment announced for the South East region this week. Waterford’s North Quays is to benefit from over €110 million in funding after the Government signed off on funding for the redevelopment project.

Earlier this week it was announced that the South East Greenway – which will run from New Ross to Waterford, and through the North Quays development to connect with the Waterford Greenway – received €9 million in funding. The Greenway is a joint initiative of the Waterford, Wexford, and Kilkenny local authorities while the North Quays project involves infrastructural works to be progressed by both Waterford and Kilkenny local authorities.

**The Greenway Tunnel at New Ross connecting Kilkenny and Waterford. Pic; visitnewross.ie**

Chairman of the Ireland South East Development Office, Frank O’Regan, said the funding was testament to the continued good work being carried out by all stakeholders in the region, and the increased collaboration between the local authorities. “These two important projects are another step towards achieving our vision of creating a vibrant and innovative region with sustainable economic growth”, added Mr. O’Regan.

“The funding is a further vote of confidence in the region and can be a catalyst for future development. The Financial Times have recently ranked us as the top small European region for FDI Strategy and placed in the top ten for Region of the Future. Many innovative projects are being advanced under the auspices of the Regional Enterprise Plan. The forthcoming merger of Waterford Institute of Technology and Institute of Technology Carlow to form the Technological University of the South East is another key driver. “And when you combine all those developments with the other urban transformational projects that are underway, including the Abbey Quarter development in Kilkenny, Trinity Wharf in Wexford, and the increased connectivity between these places, you start to see that the region is moving towards properly meeting the needs of a growing population,” he concluded

ISEDO is a local authority initiative which works with leaders of the major regional industries as well as the Chief Executives of the councils of the five counties in the South East (Carlow, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford) and other public and private stakeholders. Its priority is to make the South East the first choice for business, careers, inward investment and tourism.

Covid cancels Santa’s Enchanted Castle

By Dan Walsh

Enniscorthy’s popular Santa’s Enchanted Castle family Christmas experience, due to commence on November 21^st, has been cancelled.

Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy said; “No doubt there will be disappointment among local children. When Government restrictions levels are clarified in early December Santa will make sure to conjure up some magic around Enniscorthy before Christmas Eve.”

Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal Council CLLR BARBARA-ANNE MURPHY calls for ‘shop local’ in Enniscorthy

“It was a tough decision,” said a statement issued this morning on behalf of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Enniscorthy & District Chamber, Rathnure Pantomime Society, The Riverside Park Hotel and Treacys Hotel & Suites.

**CLLR BARBARA-ANNE MURPHY, Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District Council**

The statement reads; “The current Level 5 restrictions in place until December 1st coupled with the uncertainty around what Level the country will exit at leaves us with no alternative. Live indoor events are not permitted under Level 3 and our show preparations have been severely curtailed over the last month. Safety of our patrons is the ultimate priority.

“We will miss welcoming all our lovely families to Santa’s Enchanted Castle and Enniscorthy town, but rest assured the whole team we will be back, bigger and brighter in 2021.

“All tickets purchased from www.santasenchantedcastle.ie will be refunded in full over the next seven working days. ‘Sleep Over’ package guests with The Riverside Park Hotel and Treacys Hotel & Suites will be contacted by and refunded directly via the booking team at their chosen hotel accommodation.”