WexfordLocal.com

Wexford delegates return from Savannah and Atlanta

**Led by An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Pip Breen, the Wexford delegation to Savannah and Atlanta included Municipal District representatives, council officials, and enterprise leaders.**

By Dan Walsh

Wexford County Council delegates recently visited Savannah and Atlanta, Georgia, to explore new economic, educational, and cultural development opportunities for County Wexford.

Led by An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Pip Breen, the delegation included Municipal District representatives, council officials, and enterprise leaders. The visit reinforced the sister city agreement with Savannah and investigated new trade and investment opportunities in Atlanta.

In Atlanta, An Cathaoirleach, Cllr Pip Breen addressed the Georgia House of Representatives and was honoured with a proclamation from Speaker of the House, Jon Burns, reinforcing strong diplomatic ties and recognising County Wexford’s contribution to international partnership and cultural diplomacy.

Wexford was honoured to be the first county in Ireland to be recognised by the Georgia House of Representatives in recognition of the key achievements of the linkages with Savannah, Georgia Southern University and Tradebridge.

**CLLR PIP BREEN, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council addressed the Georgia House of Representatives while leading a Wexford delegation to the United States recently.** (File Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

An Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Pip Breen said “This visit has further strengthened the foundations for long term economic growth, international collaboration and shared learning. Our engagements in Georgia open exciting new doors for County Wexford in areas from port development and renewable energy to education and enterprise”.

Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe commented; “The relationships built during this visit will contribute directly to job creation, infrastructure advancement, educational exchange and the global promotion of Wexford as a dynamic, future-focused county.”

A highlight of the visit was the delegation’s strategic engagement with the Georgia Ports Authority. Wexford Enterprise Association joined Wexford County Council at a business forum with Tradebridge partners Savannah Economic Development Authority.

The delegation were guests of honour at the Georgia Southern University, Statesboro Campus launch of the Wexford HUB at the Henderson Library which is a designated key location space at the university of 26,000 students, building on the intake programme of students coming to Wexford which commences at the end of Spring. To date the successful relationship has seen over 300 students attending the Georgia Southern International Learning Campus in Wexford.

In addition, discussions took place on further developing the iconic Adoration Convent in Wexford which will see over €6 million investment to a new student accommodation. A new focus of the linkages with Georgia Southern are the opportunities for research and innovation with SETU and its application to opportunities for both regions.

The delegation’s presence at the Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade, attended by over 800,000 people, showcased Wexford on an international stage with the Cathaoirleach conducting TV and media interviews regarding the collaboration between our two regions.

Enniscorthy anti-social incident under investigation

By Dan Walsh

Gardaí are investigating an alleged assault that occurred in a playground on the Promenade, Enniscorthy, early Saturday afternoon.

Emergency services rushed to the scene and one youth was injured and taken to Wexford General Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. It is understood that he was released a short time later.

The Gardaí in Enniscorthy have confirmed that three juveniles were interviewed regarding the incident.

Investigations are ongoing, and a file is being prepared for the DPP.

Official opening of Brennan’s Lane, New Ross

Pictured at the opening of the refurbished Brennan’s Lane, New Ross, were (left to right); Cllr Pat Barden, Senator Cathal Byrne, Cllr Michael Sheehan, Minister James Browne, Minister Dara Calleary, Cllr Brídín Murphy, Cllr Pip Breen, Eamonn Hore, Director of Service; Cllr John Fleming, Cllr Marty Murphy, Áine Waters, Wexford County Council; Alan Fitzhenry, District Manager, Wexford County Council. (Pic; *Mary Browne*).

By Dan Walsh

The refurbishment of Brennan’s Lane in New Ross has been officially opened. The project aims to create a safer, more accessible thoroughfare and enhance connectivity within the town, providing a space for residents, visitors, and businesses.

The Brennan’s Lane refurbishment project received a €500,000 grant from the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. Additionally, Wexford County Council provided match funding, approved by the elected members, resulting in a total investment of €891,000.

The official opening was performed by Dara Calleary TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development, joined by Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Bridín Murphy, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District, elected members of Wexford County Council, Oireachtas members from Wexford, and invited guests.

Speaking about the Brennan’s Lane project, Minister Calleary said; “Significant work and engagement took place between the local community, New Ross Chamber of Commerce and the local authority to enable the delivery of this project. The connection between local authorities and communities is crucial for the development of projects that address the genuine needs of our towns and villages.”

Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, stated; “It is with great pride that I stand here today at the official opening of Brennan’s Lane, a project delivered under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. This revitalised laneway is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and community spirit, and it marks another significant step in enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of New Ross town.”

Cllr Bridín Murphy, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District, said; “Brennan’s Lane, once a modest thoroughfare, has been transformed into a vibrant, welcoming space that reflects our ambition for the future of the town.”

Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, stated; “The refurbishment of Brennan’s Lane is the latest investment in the public realm of New Ross, and is another significant step forward in the regeneration of the town centre.”

Deputy Chief Executive of Wexford County Council and Director of Services, Eamonn Hore, remarked, “This project showcases Wexford County Council’s dedication to enhancing our communities, fostering pride, and supporting local vitality. The refurbishment of Brennan’s Lane has transformed it into a safer, more accessible, and vibrant space for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”

Alan Fitzhenry, District Manager of New Ross Municipal District said; The Brennan’s Lane rejuvenation project has seen a serious team effort from everyone at New Ross Municipal District, working closely with the consultant and contractor, along with local businesses and tradespeople. I would like to sincerely thank everyone involved for their tireless work on this project and we look forward to seeing this space come to life.”

Starting in 2024, this project involved planning, design, and community consultation to refurbish the laneway for improved safety, accessibility, and vibrancy.

The project, carried out by contractor MJS Civil Engineering with design and construction management from consultants Avanti Architects, has redeveloped Brennan’s Lane to highlight New Ross’ heritage and provide support to local businesses and residents.

Announcement of Paul Kehoe’s appointment

By Dan Walsh

**PAUL KEHOE is the new Chairperson of The Wexford Food Producers Network.** (Pic; *Mary Browne Photography*)

The Board of Directors of The Wexford Food Producers Network has announced the appointment of retired Fine Gael TD for the Wexford constituency, Paul Kehoe, as the new Chairperson.

Paul Kehoe, from Bree, retired in 2024 after serving Wexford constituency in Dáil Éireann for 22 years.
The Wexford Food Producers Network is a member representative and member-led body for Wexford’s food and beverage production sector. With approximately fifty members ranging from sole traders, micro enterprises, small medium enterprises and to large exporters, their remit is to support the growth and development of Wexford’s food production sector.

The organisation supports Wexford food producers, to build a sustainable food industry which provides employment and contributes significantly to the Irish economy on a local, regional and national level.
The Wexford Food Producers Network CLG is a non-for-profit organisation that is recognised and supported by Wexford County Council, Wexford Local Enterprise Office and Wexford Local Development. The organisation engages with national agencies Bord Bia, Bord Iascaigh Mhara and Ornua –The Irish Dairy Board on the issues that are critical to assisting their member’s businesses to grow.

Paul Kehoe has led a distinguished career in Irish public service spanning twenty-two years as a TD for the Wexford constituency from 2002-2024. He served as Minister of State at the Department of Defence from 2011 to 2020 and Government Chief Whip from 2011 to 2016. He was appointed Chair of the Committee on Education, Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science in September 2020.

Barry Stone wins Eastern title

By Dan Walsh

With the point-to-point season coming to an end shortly Barry Stone has won the Eastern riders’ title and the Cleariestown champion celebrated today in Galway where he rode a double and brought his seasonal tally to 27 – a personal best!

**BARRY STONE … Eastern region point-to-point champion and a double today at Galway.** (File Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

Stone won the first division of the maiden race for four-year-old geldings on newcomer Big Ticket by 16 lengths for handler Jonathan Fogarty and added the five-year-old geldings maiden race on True Harmony for handler Garrett Murphy. Four lengths the verdict.

Rob James also rode a brace of winners in the west. He succeeded on Jury Roses, which he also trains, by five lengths in the maiden race for four-year-old mares and completed the double on Donnchadh Doyle’s Kamille Au Kanada by 14 lengths in the mares’ maiden race for five-year-olds plus.

Point-to-point action at Ballindenisk, Co. Cork, today too. Jack Hendrick had an easy 18 lengths victory on Cormac Doyle’s newcomer Indulto Rouge in the maiden race for four-year-old geldings.

Sean Doyle saddled Adonedeal to a 17 lengths success in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings. Jamie Scallan was the successful rider. And Tinahely rider James Walsh, who is returning from injury, scored on Some Spanner handled by Marc Costello by six lengths in the maiden race for six-year-old plus geldings.

May Bank Holiday Monday racing took place at Dawstown, Co. Cork, and it yielded two Wexford winners. Argent Royale won for Eamonn Doyle in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings with Alan Harney up. The winning distance was three lengths.

Rob James good form continued and he handled and rode I C U In My Dreams for Caim owner, Tom Sinnott and gained a four and a half lengths success in the maiden race for mares’ five-year-old plus.

Saturday’s action took place at Toomebridge, Co. Antrim, and Rob James handled and rode Cavalier Du Luy to a single length success in the maiden race for four-year-olds.

Michael Goff, Clondaw, Ferns also saddled a winner – Zagurlie (Michael Kenneally up) by half a length in the maiden race for mares five-year-olds plus.

Punchestown honours for Richard O’Keeffe

**Transprint with trainer Richard O’Keeffe and jockey Anthony ‘Tony’ Doyle won the Kildare Hunt Club Cross Country Steeplechase for the Ladies Perpetual Cup at Punchestown on Tuesday.** (Pic; *Healy Racing*)

By Dan Walsh

The Wexford hero of the Punchestown racing festival this week was Richard O’Keeffe, who trains at Newtown, Taghmon, with a pair of spectacular wins ‘over the famous’ Punchestown banks.

Today, Saturday, he won the Howden Cross Country Chase with the 13-year-old Vital Island, a former winner of the Ladies Cup and the La Touche, and afterwards, O’Keeffe declared Vital Island, “as one of the all-time greats around this unique course with a third win at the festival.”

Ridden by Barry Stone, Vital Island’s victory capped a fine season for both trainer and jockey. O’Keeffe had saddled the first two home in the Ladies Cup on Tuesday, while Stone tasted Cheltenham success at the first time of asking in March.

Great scenes on the opening day of the Punchestown Festival last Tuesday when Transprint (22/1) and trainer Richard O’Keeffe, who won the prestigious Ladies Cup ridden by Anthony James ‘Tony’ Doyle from Duncormick who rides out at O’Keeffe’s stables.

It was a first winner under Rules for the rider.

Winning trainer Richie O’Keeffe said: “Transprint keeps going and was third around here last year. Tony rides out for me at home and he picked Transprint.

“It’s a dream result. They were running well in point-to-points and that stands to them. They loved the ground,” said O’Keeffe, who also saddled the runner-up, Turnupthevolume ridden by Barry Stone.

Yvonne Latta from Ballinakill stables, Ballycarney, enjoyed a hurdle victory on Wednesday with Thisistheway (9/1) ridden by John Shinnock.

Owned and bred by her husband Charlie, the Doyen six-year-old was sent off a 9/1 chance and swept to the front on the lengthy run to the last.

“It’s a long time in the planning. The minute she came back in to go hurdling this has been the target all along,” Andrew Latta, assistant trainer to his mother Yvonne, said.

Thursday’s feature was the La Touche Cup over the famous Punchestown banks won by Busselton (7/1) ridden by JJ Slevin from Caim, Enniscorthy, and trained at Carrick-on-Suir by his cousin, Joseph O’Brien.

“I’ve been watching these races from Punchestown as long as I can remember and this is one race I’ve always wanted to win,” said Slevin afterwards. JJ’s father Shay Slevin saddled the 2017 winner, Treo Eile.

It was a good festival for JJ Slevin. On Wednesday he won the Grade 3 chase on James Du Berlais (7/4) for the all-conquering Willie Mullins stable.

On Thursday Jordan Gainford, Caim, was successful on Cushendale Lad (7/1) for Gordon Elliott’s stables.

Sean Flanagan repeated his Cheltenham success on Marine Nationale (2/1) for trainer Barry Connell in the Champion Chase on opening day.

Enniscorthy festival of food and family fun

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy

Thousands of people squeezed into Enniscorthy town centre on the opening day of the annual Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival where a family friendly atmosphere prevailed in favourable weather conditions.

The focus was on diverse food stalls offering a range of delicious treats, ensuring everyone was satisfied. There was a chance to try unique or newly presented flavours.

The Food Marquee located within the grounds of Enniscorthy Castle hosts various celebrity chefs. This afternoon, an engaging discussion took place regarding the fascinating world of bees and honey production. It was a buzzing area with a hive of activity.

Market Square was the location for an afternoon of music and dancing rock ‘n’ roll. A large crowd of all ages enjoyed the rhythm and moves on the dance floor. Evening sessions were also planned in the town’s hostelries.

I am glad the Athenaeum Hall is now open to the public. This historic 1892 building will hopefully be restored as an arts, entertainment and exhibition centre.

The Volunteers’ headquarters in the 1916 Easter Rising is cherished by the people of Enniscorthy. Let’s all work together to secure its future.

During the festival included in the Athenaeum are arts and crafts displays in the auditorium and the Enniscorthy Camera Club exhibition downstairs. Both are worth visiting tomorrow (Sunday).

Abbey Square hosts a busy Ferris wheel attracting many young visitors testing their altitude challenges and enjoying spectacular views of greater Enniscorthy in the process. Bumpers and other fun fair activities are also available.

The Rockin’ Food & Fruit Festival starts the summer with food, fruit, rock ‘n’ roll, exhibitions, and a funfair atmosphere. Join us again tomorrow (Sunday) for a warm welcome and enjoy Enniscorthy in festival mood.

Enniscorthy festival is already rockin’

At the launch of the 10^th Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival at Enniscorthy Castle tonight were (left to right); Eric Barron, Festival Chairman, Deputy Johnny Mythen TD, Minister James Browne TD, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy, Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach, Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Verona Murphy TD, Ceann Comhairle, Richie Cotter, Rock and Roll Club, Claire Lawless, District Manager, Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllr Pat Kehoe and Senator Cathal Byrne. (Pic; *WexfordLocal.com*)

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Castle

The 10^th annual Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival was officially opened tonight in Enniscorthy Castle by James Browne, TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, followed by a spectacular Fireworks Display on The Promenade.

Minister Browne praised the Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival as “a celebration of what Enniscorthy does really well”, he complimented the organisers, thanked the sponsors and wished everybody a successful festival weekend.

Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council, Cllr Aidan Browne, welcomed everybody to the town for the weekend, thanked the organisers and the sponsors, the food producers and the rock ‘n’ roll enthusiasts. “It is one of Ireland’s greatest family festivals and brings €2 million to the local economy every year.”

The attendance included the Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy TD, Deputy Johnny Mythen TD, Senator Cathal Byrne, Cllrs Barbara-Anne Murphy, Pat Kehoe, Jackser Owens, The Reverend Canon Nicola Halford, Paul Kehoe, Chairperson, The Wexford Food Producers Network and Billy Byrne, Tourism Officer, Wexford County Council. Jimmy Gahan acted as master of ceremonies.

Thanks were expressed to Manager Mico Hassett and Deputy Manager Eve Furlong and the catering staff at Enniscorthy Castle.

Richie Cotter spoke on behalf of the rock ‘n’ roll group and was entertaining in his presentation. He said that the rock ‘n’ roll and the food combination was unique for a festival. But it worked perfectly in Enniscorthy and he encouraged support for the long list of rockin’ events during the festival.

Kevin Lawlor, secretary a member of the Board of Enniscorthy Credit Union described the festival as “a major highlight of the social year” and the Credit Union, as a sponsor, “are proud to be involved” and he concluded; “let’s rock this town!”

Festival Organiser Amanda Whitmore described the Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival as “a celebration of Wexford’s amazing food scene, our incredible local producers and the wonderful atmosphere that Enniscorthy creates each year.” She added; “Whether you are coming for the food, the music or the family fun, there’s something for everyone.”

Festival Chairman Eric Barron said; “We are so proud that the festival has become one of Ireland’s most loved festivals.” He added; “It’s a weekend that showcases the very best of Enniscorthy and Wexford, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to celebrate the 10^th year with us.”

The festival is jam-packed with children’s entertainment and family activities including street entertainment, kid’s rock ‘n’ roll dance classes, art and craft workshops and a Lego Making and Pokémon trading at Eason’s Bookshop, Court Street.

The Fun Fair and Big Wheel will be turning on The Promenade during the weekend, also top class live rock ‘n’ roll across the weekend in Market Square with the best of Irish and international bands.

Many activities are free of charge, with some ticketed events available.

New speed camera installed in Gorey

By Dan Walsh

County Wexford’s first static speed camera will begin operating at midday tomorrow (Friday).

It will be situated on the Old Dublin Road in North Gorey on the R772 near Aske, which has a maximum speed limit of 80 km per hour.

Motorists detected speeding on this stretch of road from 12 noon will be subject to prosecution.

It is one of two new static speed cameras to begin operation in Ireland this week.

“It is the first in Co. Wexford. It is quite a busy road and a good quality road. It’s quite straight. People tend to speed there,” said Sinead Casey, Head of Roads & Transportation at Wexford County Council, who added; “There are more plans to roll out further cameras in Wexford in line with the Department of Transport and An Garda Síochána plans for the rest of the country as well.”

Average safety cameras use Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to record the time, date, and location of each vehicle that passes through an entry and exit point.

Drivers detected exceeding the speed limit i.e. travelling from point A to point B too quickly, are issued with a Fixed Charge Notice which, when processed, assigns three penalty points to the drivers’ licence and a fine of up to €160.

For more information visit www.garda.ie.

Enniscorthy welcomes 10th Rockin’ Festival

By Dan Walsh

Enniscorthy is gearing up for the 10th annual Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival, scheduled to take place in the town this May Bank Holiday weekend from Friday to Sunday. The event is expected to attract 50,000 visitors and provide a significant boost to the local economy.

The official opening will be celebrated with a spectacular Fireworks Display at The Promenade on Friday, May 2^nd at 9.15pm.

Since the early days with just six traders, the Rockin’ Food and Fruit Festival has grown into one of the leading food and family events in the country. It is estimated that 80 food and craft vendors will display their sumptuous goods on the town’s streets this weekend, and, of course, the major focus is on Wexford’s outstanding produce.

The Food Marquee will be in the grounds of Enniscorthy Castle with live chef demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday and featuring celebrity chefs including Kevin Dundon, Edward Hayden, Paul Hynes and Warren Gillen. There is also an event labelled ‘All About Nector’ which is described as “a live, family friendly observation hive talk about the incredible world of bees and honey production.”

The funfair and Big Wheel will be turning on The Promenade during the weekend, also top class live rock ‘n’ roll across the weekend in Market Square with the best of Irish and international bands.

Many activities are free of charge, with some ticketed events available. To pre-book contact http://www.rockinfoodfestival.ie