Wexford Bus named Fleadh Travel Partner

Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council and Brendan Crowley, Managing Director of Wexford Bus announced local bus arrangements for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 taking place August 3rd-10th in Wexford town.

By Dan Walsh

Wexford Bus is named as the Official Travel Partner for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025. To celebrate this partnership, Wexford Bus will offer journeys free of charge on the Wexford Bus Connect Town Services (Routes WX1 and WX2) throughout the Fleadh. Additionally, the Wexford Bus timetables will be extended to include extra nighttime services to facilitate all those attending the event.

Brendan Crowley, Managing Director of Wexford Bus commented; “As a proud Wexford company we are thrilled to welcome Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann back to Wexford for another year. We are excited to be bringing visitors to our beautiful town and county for this incredible event and are confident that the people of Wexford will once again extend a warm welcome.  

“We are delighted that the Fleadh is committed to encouraging visitors to use public transport to travel to and within Wexford. In support of this, we are inviting visitors and locals to travel on our services within Wexford town namely Route WX1 and WX2 free of charge for the duration of the Fleadh.”

“Last year we carried a record number of passengers to Wexford for the Fleadh from Dublin, Gorey, Enniscorthy, Waterford and Carlow as well as on our local routes and hope to carry a similar volume of passengers this year. By booking in advance passengers were guaranteed a seat at the time they wished to travel, and we could plan our services and add additional resources when required. We encourage all intending passengers to book in advance again this year,” stated Mr Crowley.

Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council commented; “Having Wexford Bus as the Official Travel Partner of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann was a great success last year so we are very happy to have them on board again this year. Wexford Bus operates an extensive network of bus services within the county so naturally they are a key part of helping us to bring visitors to the Fleadh.  

“We are delighted that Wexford Bus is offering free travel to all passengers on the Wexford Bus Local Town Services (Route WX1 and WX2) during the Fleadh and hope it will encourage people to leave their cars at home. This is another example of the warm Wexford welcome that is being extended to visitors, and I would like to thank Wexford Bus for their generous contribution,” concluded Mr Taaffe.

For more information please visit http://www.wexfordbus.com and http://www.fleadhcheoil.ie

Wexford has six Blue Flag beaches

By Dan Walsh

Six beaches in Co. Wexford received the prestigious ‘Blue Flag’ at a ceremony this afternoon at Ravenport Resort, Curracloe.  

The six beaches on the Wexford coastline that received the Blue Flags are; Curracloe Beach, Carne Beach, Morriscastle Beach, Rosslare Strand, Ballineskar Beach and Ballymoney North Beach, who regained the Blue Flag having lost it in 2024, but now regained after they recorded an improved annual water quality rating, now deemed to be excellent.

Ms. Cathy Baxter, Director of Education and Community Action at An Taisce said; “We were delighted to be back in the sunny Southeast once again, to present The Blue Flag and Green Coast Award Flags for the 2025 season.

“We would like to congratulate all the Local Authorities, marina operators and Clean Coasts groups responsible for managing the awarded beaches and marinas to the excellent standards required,” concluded Ms. Baxter.

Tributes to racehorse trainer Michael Cullen

By Dan Walsh

Tributes have been paid to racehorse trainer Michael Cullen, Whitemoor, New Ross, who passed away on Monday morning. He was aged 67 years.

MICHAEL CULLEN

Former champion jockey Davy Russell said; “His horses were always exceptionally well turned out. He was very particular, there would never be anything out of place. 

“He was very nice and hard-working. Himself and his wife Ann were always side by side – you would never see one without the other.

“He had great success with American Jennie and a few other mares who won nice pots over the years. I rode for him throughout my whole career and he was a very nice man who worked very hard.”

Cullen enjoyed memorable days with American Jennie, especially her 2007 Punchestown festival win.

Other notable Cullen stable horses include Carrig Mille, winner of the 2013 Pat Taaffe Handicap Chase, and Bella Mana Mou, a four-time winner.  

His final winners were at Tramore in May of 2014, where he saddled a double on the same day. 

He will always be held in the heart of his loving wife Ann who was by his side and also surrounded by other members of his caring family.
Son of Elizabeth (Les) and the late Michael Cullen Senior. Sadly missed by his brother Sean, sister Marion, brothers and sisters – in -law Eve, Anna, Maria, Anthony and Garrett. Adored by his nieces, nephews, extended family and a wide circle of friends. Rest in Peace.

Funeral Mass was held today (Friday) at St. Anne’s Church, Rathgarogue, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Call for 10-bed mental health unit

By Dan Walsh

Speaking in Seanad Éireann today Senator Cathal Byrne raised the issue of mental health in the presence of Waterford Deputy Mary Butler, Minister of State at the Department of Health.

Senator Byrne requested to highlight a motion that was recently passed by the members of Wexford County Council, which called on the Minister of State to intervene and deliver in Wexford a ten-bed unit for local urgent need, integrated with Wexford General Hospital.

“At the moment any person suffering from a mental health issue with suicide on his or her mind is brought to the emergency department of Wexford General Hospital and, if required, transferred to Waterford. Unfortunately, for a county as large as Wexford and its population, it is unacceptable that people are transferred to Waterford,” said Senator Byrne.

SENATOR CATHAL BYRNE (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

“I am aware of the work that is under way in Waterford and the work that the Minister of State is doing in her local area to increase and improve the facilities that are available there.

“The people of Wexford need a small, designated ten-bed unit that is co-located with Wexford General Hospital to be provided. I am aware that the outgoing CEO of the HSE does not favour this proposal but someone new will take up his position. I urge the Minister of State to get involved in her neighbouring county.

“We are not looking for a large-scale unit like the one in Waterford. We are seeking a small ten-bed unit for urgent need because a mental health issue is not something that just happens between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Monday to Friday. We need 24-hour access,” stated Senator Byrne.

Wexford races Saturday family day out

By Dan Walsh

Saturday is expected to be dry, warm and sunny; suitable for a family day out at the Wexford races.

The first of seven races is off at 2.25pm and the card consists of four hurdle races, two steeplechases and an amateur flat race to finish the day.

Watering has been ongoing throughout the week, and by Saturday, conditions should be described as ‘good’ and safe.

All the top Wexford jockeys will be in action including Tiernan Power-Roche, Conor Stone-Walsh, Sean O’Keeffe and JJ Slevin and amateur riders Rob James, Luke Murphy and Bertie Finn.

Local trainers have entries, including Colm Murphy, Philip Rothwell, Paul Nolan, Richie Rath, Liz Doyle and Sean Doyle.

And the champions of the jump racing game will also be sending their runners to Bettyville Park including the record-breaking Willie Mullins, Gordon Elliott, Gavin Cromwell and Henry de Bromhead.

Grab your early bird tickets at www.wexfordracces.ie#visitwexford#horseracing#wexfordtown

Seamus Rafter Bridge may be removed

The SEAMUS RAFTER BRIDGE over the River Slaney at Enniscorthy is facing removal in Flood Relief Scheme plans. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Riverside Park Hotel

Wexford County Council and the OPW (Office of Public Works) are developing a Flood Relief Scheme for Enniscorthy. A public consultation on the option selection was held at Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, on Wednesday.

Phase 1 involves removing the Seamus Rafter Bridge, which obstructs the River Slaney during floods. A new road bridge and pedestrian bridge will be built above predicted flood levels.

Enniscorthy has experienced significant flooding in 1924, 1947, 1965, 2000, 2015, 2018, and 2021, leading to property damage, commercial disruption, and traffic issues.

Phase 1 aims to provide relief for the town by removing the Seamus Rafter Bridge which becomes inaccessible when the river is in flood.

While opinions may vary on the scheme’s future, feedback from the consultation day indicates that Option 5 is the preferred choice. This option includes a bridge located about 120 metres downstream of the Seamus Rafter Bridge, connecting the R772 Wexford road and The Promenade.

A questionnaire and supporting documentation is available on the project website www.enniscorthyfrs.ie and when completed should sent via email to enniscorthyfrs-phase1@rod.ie or by post marked ‘Enniscorthy Flood Relief Scheme, Phase 1 Submission’ addressed to Roughan & O’Donovan, Arena House, Arena Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18. Closing date is Tuesday, June 10th 2025.   

HISTORY; The Seamus Rafter Bridge was named in honour of Seamus Rafter (1873-1918), a native of Monalee, Ballindaggin, whose memorial stands close-by.

It was opened by Padraic Flynn TD, Minister for the Environment on May 31st 1991 in the presence of the Chairman of Wexford County Council Senator Hugh Byrne, the Chairman of Enniscorthy Urban District Council John Browne TD and County Manager Noel Dillon.

The Consultant Engineer was John B Barry and Partners and the contractor was Ascon Limited.

Closure of underperforming Enniscorthy Car Park

By Dan Walsh at Wexford County Council meeting

Enniscorthy-based Independent Cllr Jackser Owens raised concerns at Monday’s Wexford County Council’s monthly meeting about losing around 50 parking spaces at Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, after the meter was removed and the lease ended.

Speaking remotely, Cllr Owens claimed he had just heard that the Council was not renewing the lease on the privately-owned car park, known locally as the Clinic Car Park. “This is a massive blow to Enniscorthy,” said Cllr Owens, who added; “Losing 50 spaces in such a central location will have a serious impact, especially for local businesses and residents who rely on this facility.”

CLLR JACKSER OWENS

He was frustrated that Enniscorthy District Council members were not informed in advance, learning only through the property owner. “I want to make it absolutely clear that the closure is not the fault of the property owner. They’ve been very upfront and transparent, and it’s important the public knows this.”

Cllr Owens noted that the parking meter on the site had been removed, and the Council had not renewed the lease.

In reply to Cllr Owens’, Eamonn Hore, Deputy Chief Executive said there were 45 car parking spaces at the Clinic Car Park on Mill Park Road and usage was coming in at 20% and it was losing serious money; €18,000 in 2022, €20,000 in 2023 and €20,000 in the first half of 2024. “Car spaces on The Promenade are never full. There is always spare capacity,” added Mr. Hore.

“Somebody took down the ticket machine. “It has been taken away,” said Cllr Owens, urging the Council to compensate for the lost parking spaces in the town.

Cllr Aidan Browne announced that the issue will be discussed and decided on at next Tuesday’s Enniscorthy Municipal District Council meeting!

Big turn out for Gorey Bike Fest

By Dan Walsh

Adults and children of all ages turned out in force at the Gorey Bike Fest on Sunday morning in the glorious sunshine in the Town Park.

Organised by the Gorey Pedestrian & Cycling Association in conjunction with Wexford County Council, the event marked the start of Bike Week in County Wexford.

There was something for everyone with face painting, balance bikes and games, slow bike races and e-bike demos but the highlight of the morning was the slow-roll cycle into the town centre and back. Enthusiastically escorted by the blue lights of the Gorey Gardai, around 50 cyclists of all ages and abilities completed the 2.5km loop back to the Park. The cyclists worked up a thirst which was quenched with refreshments from the Coffee Pod Café.

Speaking after the event, the Council’s recently appointed Cycling & Walking Officer, Clinton Donovan, said “it was fantastic to see the children cycling safely as a group around the streets and hopefully it will help show that cycling can be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere, even in a town centre environment”.

He also paid tribute to the understanding of motorists in town that morning, saying that everyone appreciated the spirit of the event which contributed to the enjoyment of both the cyclists and spectators along the route.

Citing recent developments such as the Safe Routes to School, the Traffic Calming Scheme, and segregated cycle lanes, Gorey Pedestrian and Cycling Association are hopeful that the momentum towards safe active travel will continue in Gorey.

Mobile saunas coming to a beach near you?

By Dan Walsh at Wexford County Council meeting

Mobile saunas are popular at beaches and lakesides, but regulations vary. Wexford County Council discussed this issue at their monthly meeting today, and significant changes may be coming down the tracks! Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach, chaired the meeting.

County Wexford bans mobile beachside saunas. Chris Mortimer of sweathouse.ie was asked to relocate to private land despite initial approval from Wexford County Council for a beach sauna. He discussed his situation on Newstalk. 

CLLR JOE SULLIVAN. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

Cllr Joe Sullivan has been advocating for mobile saunas at Wexford beaches by proposing changes to seaside by-laws during a few district meetings. He raised the matter again today at the County Council meeting at Wexford.

Cllr Sullivan said he doesn’t understand why the blanket ban is in place. “As I can see, these mobile saunas are a welcome addition to our beaches. They’re a further attraction, they’re helping tourism, they pose no danger, they’re not interfering with any other service provider.”

Cllr Sullivan stated that he would expect all mobile sauna providers to have their own public liability insurance, so he cannot see what the issue is?

“Beaches are a natural asset,” stated Cllr Sullivan, who added that bye-laws be amended to accommodate properly constructed and properly insured mobile saunas on our beaches.

Chief Executive Eddie Taaffe replied that the matter of mobile saunas is being considered by the environment and planning departments, however, he added that from a personal view he would look favourable on allowing mobile saunas on Wexford’s beaches. Deputy Executive Eamonn Hore added that he agreed with the Chief Executive on mobile saunas.

Fringe Fleadh 2025 launch held in Gorey

Pictured at Gorey are (left to right); Barbara Walsh, Vice-Chair Fleadh Cheoil Executive Committee; Cllr Donal Kenny, Leas Cathaoirleach Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council; Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive Wexford County Council and Chair Fleadh Cheoil Executive Committee; Sharon Ni Chuilinn, Chairperson Comhaltas Loch Garman; Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council and Liz Hore, Director of Services Wexford County Council. (Pic; Sabrina French).

By Dan Walsh

Wexford County Council and Gorey-Kilmuckridge Municipal District Council announced Fleadh Cheoil Loch Garman 2025 and Fringe Fleadh 2025 at an event held in the Ashdown Park Hotel, Gorey, last Sunday.

This event signified the commencement of a lively season of Irish music, culture, and community celebration. Gorey Community School will once again host the County Fleadh from May 16th to 18th for the second consecutive year.

Cllr Donal Kenny, Leas Cathaoirleach of Gorey Municipal District, welcomed all attendees and commended the talent, energy, and dedication of those involved. He expressed the enthusiasm felt throughout Gorey to once again host this significant cultural event.

Discussing the 2025 Fringe Fleadh line-up, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Pip Breen, characterised the festival as an immersive cultural experience aimed at celebrating the richness of Irish identity.

“These events don’t just entertain – they connect us,” he said. “They weave a thread between communities, between generations, and between the past and the present. That’s what makes the Fringe Fleadh so special here in Wexford. They remind us of who we are and the values we hold dear: creativity, community, heritage, tradition, and heart,” stated Cllr Breen.

This year’s Fleadh Cheoil Loch Garman was organised by CCÉ (Comhaltas Ceóltóirí Éireann) Gorey/Ballygarrett. Chairperson Paula Carroll acknowledged the team’s efforts for their dedication over the past two years.

Ms. Carroll thanked the Gorey-Kilmuckridge District members and staff for their support, noting the friendships and community spirit from the event. She welcomed Irish international rugby player Aoife Wafer, who shared how Irish music connects her with people worldwide.

Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, formally announced the launch of the Fringe Fleadh programme. This initiative will encompass various cultural events across County Wexford throughout the summer, leading up to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August.

Mr. Taaffe expressed his appreciation to the members of Wexford County Council, the Fleadh Cheoil Executive Committee (FEC), and the numerous committed volunteers who have significantly contributed to the success of this year’s and last year’s Fleadh.

Sharon Ní Chuilinn, Chairperson of Comhaltas Loch Garman, praised the dedication of volunteers and organisers in Wexford. She expressed her enthusiasm for the Fringe Fleadh 2025 programme, which will showcase Irish music, dance, art, and storytelling throughout the community this summer.  

Ms. Ní Chuilinn expressed appreciation to Gorey Community School for providing a venue that accommodates nearly 1000 competitors and their families over the weekend. The event concluded with the Chairperson officially launching Fleadh Cheoil Loch Garman.  

Full details of the Fringe Fleadh programme are available via QR codes on-site or by visiting www.visitwexford.ie.