Are you coming to Wexford for Fleadh 2025?

EDDIE TAAFFE, Chairperson of Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee and MAURA BELL, Chairperson of the Fleadh Accommodation Committee are welcoming people to register for accommodation from Monday, March 10th.

By Dan Walsh

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the world’s largest celebration of Irish music and language events, returns to Wexford Town and 650,000 are expected to attend the week-long event from August 3rd to the 10th.

The Fleadh Executive Committee are reaching out to Wexford homeowners who can offer a variety of accommodations to rent, including a spare room or a holiday home not in use. Those interested in providing property or rooms to visitors can register their accommodation atfleadhcheoil.ie.

The highest demand for accommodation during the Fleadh in 2024 was primarily for the second weekend when the competitions occurred, and this trend is expected to continue in 2025, with events scheduled from Friday, August 8th to Sunday, August 10th.

Additionally, another observation from Fleadh 2024 revealed that many visitors preferred shorter stays, typically ranging from 2 to 4 nights, rather than a full week’s accommodation. These insights could influence your decision on whether to offer your accommodation to Fleadh attendees in 2025.

Chairperson of the Wexford Fleadh Accommodation Committee Maura Bell said to WexfordLocal.com; “After the 2024 Fleadh, it was noted that the highest demand for accommodation was for the second weekend. Please consider this when deciding whether to offer your accommodation. Additionally, many of our visitors will be seeking 2, 3 or 4-night stays, so keep this in mind when registering your property”

Chairperson of the Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee, Eddie Taaffe, in a press release to WexfordLocal.com said: “We are excited to announce the return of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Wexford this summer. Following on from the success of the Fleadh 2024 which would not have happened without the assistance and co-operation of the locals, we are once again asking people to assist in providing accommodation.

“If you have a space available for rent, we kindly ask you to register it on our website. Help us display our renowned Wexford hospitality by opening your doors and providing a warm welcome to the Fleadh festival attendees!”

For more information and to register your accommodation for the Wexford Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025, visit fleadhcheoil.ie. Any queries on accommodation can be directed to accommodation@fleadhcheoil.ie. 

Reopening of Spike Bridge is a priority

CLLR JOE SULLIVAN is pleased Spike Bridge has been prioritised. He thanked Coillte for resolving the matter promptly. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com).   

By Dan Walsh

Concerns about the future of a popular Wexford Walking Trails route have been alleviated by Coillte’s statement today that “reopening Spike Bridge is a priority.”

Coillte Communications has released the following statement in response to an enquiry from WexfordLocal.com regarding a story published on February 26th:  

“Coillte wishes to inform the public and stakeholders that Spike Bridge in Courtown Wood has been temporarily closed due to health and safety concerns.

“The safety of our visitors is our top priority and this action was taken following a recent on site assessment of the bridge. We appreciate that this is a valued local amenity and are currently carrying out works to make the bridge safe and enable us to reopen to the public this weekend.

“In the meantime, we appreciate the patience and understanding of the community as we complete these essential safety measures, and we ask the public to kindly abide by all safety signage on site. We will continue to monitor the bridge and assess any further works that may be required in the future.”

The bridge was marked with a ‘closed’ sign, raising questions about its future, especially among members of the Courtown Heritage Group.

Cllr Joe Sullivan supported the locals and corresponded with Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae TD with responsibility for the Department of Forestry and Coillte management.

Cllr Sullivan told WexfordLocal.com that he is pleased the Spike Bridge has been prioritised. He thanked Coillte for resolving the matter promptly.   

The official trail map shows that if the bridge closes, the bridge walk will no longer be connected to the Wexford Walking Trail network in Courtown.

Currently the bridge allows for access to woodland managed by Coillte on the north side of the Owenavorragh river, linking the 1.4km Bridge Walk which is especially popular for active travel and river anglers.

 

European Harbour Masters visit to Rosslare Europort

GLENN CARR, Director of Commercial Business Units for Iarnród Éireann and General Manager of Rosslare Europort welcomed 20 Harbour Masters last Wednesday.

By Dan Walsh

A 20-strong delegation of Harbour Masters from across Europe, including representatives from Portsmouth, the Port of Dover, Ystad, Jersey, and the Port of Tyne, visited Rosslare Europort on Wednesday to witness digital transformation in live operation. 

The purpose of the visit was to showcase Rosslare Europort’s SmartPort technology, a key component of the port’s €1.5 million digitisation initiative under the Rosslare Europort Masterplan.

Glenn Carr, Director of Commercial Business Units for Iarnród Éireann and General Manager of Rosslare Europort, welcomed the delegation, stating: “We are delighted to welcome this group of European Harbour Masters to Rosslare Europort to experience first-hand how our technology is transforming port operations. The SmartPort initiative is a game-changer for Rosslare Europort and for the wider maritime industry. By harnessing cutting-edge technology, we are optimising freight and passenger movements, streamlining customs processes, and enhancing security, all while driving sustainable growth and competition.

“Rosslare Europort has undergone a remarkable transformation and as we continue to expand and strengthen our capabilities, we look forward to shaping the future of port operations alongside our European counterparts”, concluded Mr Carr.

Rosslare Europort is leading the way in smart port technology, offering operational and customer service improvements that are setting a new standard for European ports.

The delegation toured the port, observed live operations, engaged with system users, and explored the latest software and hardware innovations driving efficiency and security at the Port.

The SmartPort initiative forms part of a broader €350 million investment, including the development of a Permanent Border Control Post by the Office of Public Works (OPW), the construction of the N25 Rosslare Europort Access Road, and the establishment of Ireland’s Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Hub, with the potential to create up to 2,000 jobs.

2024 was a record-breaking year where Rosslare Europort became Ireland’s number one port for direct RoRo/Pax services to Europe.

Returning to nature on church grounds!

Pictured at Ballyvaloo Retreat: (left to right); Fr. Billy Swan, Wexford Parish Administrator, Cliona Connolly, Environmental Awareness Officer Wexford County Council, Noel Culleton, Chairman, Wexford Parish Care for the Earth group,  Mary Ellen Hawkey (nee Finn), Wexford Parish Care for the Earth group, Bishop Ger Nash, Diocese of Ferns, Claire Goodwin, Biodiversity Officer, Helen Corish, Wexford Parish Care for the Earth group. (Front); Gerry Forde, Wexford Parish Care for the Earth group.

By Dan Walsh

The Wexford Parish Care for the Earth group and Wexford County Council Environmental Department staff, Cliona Connolly and Claire Goodwin met with Bishop Ger Nash and the Diocesan priests recently. 

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss a ‘Returning to Nature’ project for Wexford parishes.

“Pope Francis’ Encyclical, Laudato Si’ On Care for Our Common Home issued in 2015 was a compelling call to all people of goodwill … to care for the environment of which they are part”. In response, the Irish Bishops’ Conference, in 2023 agreed that parishes would return 30% of church grounds to nature by 2030. 

They stated, “Parishes are asked to expand their circles of solidarity, to protect and care for biodiversity and creation on 30% of their grounds, and to care for this as a haven for pollinators and biodiversity, that can be enjoyed by the whole community.”

Now Wexford County Council is coming together with the Parishes of Wexford and the Wexford Parish Care for the Earth group to commence a pilot project in Wexford with six parishes invited to partake in biodiversity schemes on church grounds in 2025. 

Support given will include expert advice from a biodiversity specialist and funding to get projects off the ground. The aim is to allow room for nature to flourish and to manage sites to support wildlife.

Some examples of projects for biodiversity might be reducing mowing frequency to allow flowers to bloom and provide food for endangered pollinators, planting of heritage fruit trees, hedgerow maintenance or planting, erecting barn owl or swift boxes for endangered bird, providing nesting habitat for solitary bees.

Several parishes have already expressed interest in taking part. The project will continue in 2026 and beyond subject to demand. This project is open to groups of all faiths. 

To find out more or to apply to be involved please see the Wexford County Council website or contact biodiversity@wexfordcoco.ie

Tributes for maritime legend ‘Captain Jack’

JACK O’LEARY (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh

Tributes were paid to maritime legend Jack O’Leary, who was laid to rest in St. Ibar’s Cemetery, Crosstown on Tuesday. A friend aptly described him on social media as “a gentleman, a Wexford seafarer, and a great recorder of Wexford’s maritime history.”

Jack, fondly referred to as ‘Captain Jack’ of Magdalens Terrace in Maudlintown, Wexford town, passed away on Sunday at the age of 80.

Jack started his seafaring career in 1961 on the Rosslare Harbour-Fishguard ferry route with the crew of the ‘St. Andrew’. The operations company, originally Great Western, was later renamed British Rail, then Sealink, and is now StenaLine.

Jack, an expert in maritime history, who earned a diploma in Local History at NUI Maynooth. He co-authored the book ‘Sailing Ships of Wexford 1840s to the 1940s‘ with Brian Cleare, published in 2019.

The work is “dedicated to the memory of the sailors from County Wexford who went to sea in the days of sail, many to find their final resting place in the ocean deep.”

He was a founding member of the Rosslare Harbour Maritime Enthusiasts Group, established in 2012. Additionally, he was a dedicated supporter of the South End Sea Shanty Singers and an enthusiastic advocate for the Wexford Maritime Festival.

Beloved husband of the late Patricia. Dear father of Darragh, Ciara, Conor, Ruairí. Brother of the late Jim. Very sadly missed by his sons, daughter, grandchildren Jack, Sarah, Shay, Cormac, Medb, Arthur, Andrew and Woody. Daughters-in-law Denise, Fiona and Lorraine, son-in-law Phillip, brother-in-law Kevin, sister-in-law Margaret, nephews Brian, Niall and Donal, extended family, neighbours and friends. May He Rest in Peace.

Joe Duffy to open Drama Festival

By Dan Walsh

RTE presenter Joe Duffy will officially open the 18th South Wicklow Drama Festival at St. Brigid’s Hall, Carnew, from March 14th to March 22nd.  

Broadcaster JOE DUFFY will open the South Wicklow Drama Festival.

Details were announced at the festival launch in Jim Byrne’s Lounge, Carnew, on Thursday night. The festival was launched by Linda Dunne, a retired School Principal of Colaiste Bhride in Carnew.

Ms Dunne became nationally famous when crowned The Calor Kosangas Housewife of the Year in 1985. In retirement, she has a bit more time for golf and this year is Lady Captain in Coolattin Golf Club.

Ms. Dunne stated that she was honoured to be invited to launch the festival. She remarked on the positive impact of the collaboration between the Drama Group and the School, highlighting the advantages for students to have the Drama Festival readily accessible and the opportunity to experience numerous productions.

Line up of Plays Nightly at 8pm except final night – 7.30pm start.

Friday 14th March; Bridevew Drama Group – The Weir by Conor McPherson (sponsored by Kenny’s Corner House).

Saturday 15th March; Tinahely Drama Group – Thy Will be Done by Michael Carey (sponsored by Fitzgerald Kitchens) 

Sunday 16th March; Lislea – Dead Guilty by Richard Harris (sponsored by South East Security and Safety Ltd)

Monday 17th March; Thurles – Rathmines Road by Deirdre Kinahan (sponsored by K&K Windows, Craanford).

Tuesday 18th March; Kilmuckridge Drama Group – Juno and the Paycock – by Sean O’Casey (sponsored by Maxol Candy’s Carnew)

Wednesday 19th March; Bridge Players – The Curious incident of the dog in the night time by Simon Stephens (sponsored by Boggan Motors, Gorey & Wexford)

Thursday 20th March; Kilrush Drama Group – Bailegangaire by Tom Murphy (sponsored by Jim Byrne’s Bar & Lounge). 

Friday 21st March; Bunclody Drama Group – The Beacon by Nancy Harris (Sponsored by Quinn Property Carnew & Gorey)

Saturday 22nd March; Wexford Drama Group – Skylight by David Hare (Sponsored by Osborne’s Centra, Carnew).

The Chairman and Committee of South Wicklow Drama Festival are delighted to welcome Declan Drohan as Adjudicator for the 2025 Festival. 

Patron Tickets for the Festival are available from any of the Festival Committee, from Mark Kennedy in Hall’s Shop, Main Street, Carnew; Carnew Training & Consultancy Centre. Purchasing a patron ticket enables you to see all nine of the following plays for just €50.

The Carnew Community Art Group will hold their annual Art Exhibition in Roberts’ Garage next to St. Brigid’s Hall. The exhibition will open on Thursday, March 13th, and will be available daily throughout the duration of the Festival.

Ballyfad School is set to close

BALLYFAD NATIONAL SCHOOL (Scoil Naisiunta Baile Fada) is to close after this academic year.

By Dan Walsh

Ballyfad National School near Inch, Gorey, will close after this academic year. After thorough consultation among Bishop Ger Nash as Patron, Very Rev. Denis Browne as Single Manager, and other key stakeholders, this decision has been reached.

The current School Principal, Ms. Anne Ryan, will be retiring at the end of the school term. Additionally, the current 6th class students will transition to secondary education, resulting in only one student remaining in the school. This student has been accepted into another school for 6th grade next year.

Despite best efforts to boost enrolment, Ballyfad parish’s school has no students registered for the 2025/2026 year. Keeping the school open is not feasible.

The closure decision will be reported to the Department of Education this week, followed by consultations about the building’s future use.

In a statement to WexfordLocal.com, Bishop Nash said; “I offer my sincere thanks to many people for their tremendous efforts on behalf of this school over the years. Many people will feel great sadness and regret because of this closure and indeed it is a very significant event in the life of the curacy. However, this does not take away from the great work done by so many people in the school over the years, or from the achievements and successes in the school or from the very happy memories that many people have of their time spent in Ballyfad National School.

Scoil Naisiunta Baile Fada has served the community since it replaced the old national school, now the Community Centre, in 1950.

Wexford TD announces loss of his mother

By Dan Walsh

Condolences to Deputy Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin, recently elected TD for Wicklow-Wexford, on the sad passing of his mother.

DEPUTY FIONNTÁN Ó SÚILLEABHÁIN

Eileen O’Sullivan (née Gibbons) passed peacefully at Wexford General Hospital on Saturday at 97 years old.

Deputy Ó Súilleabhain announced on social media, “This wonderful lady, our beloved mother Eileen O’Sullivan of Pallas, Gorey, has passed away. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.”

FAMILY NOTICE; Eileen O’Sullivan (née Gibbons) The Mill, Pallas, Gorey, Co. Wexford. Died 1st March 2025 peacefully at Wexford General Hospital in her 98th year. Beloved wife of the late Pat and loving mother of Murth, Ann, Eddie, Pat, John, Francis and Fionntán. Deeply regretted by her loving daughter, sons, sister, brother, grandchildren Caroline, Emmet, Andrea, Diarmuid, Daire, Ciarán, Emiliano, Donnchadh, Róisín and Éireann, great-grandchild Fionn, son-in-law Éamonn, daughters-in-law Mary, Siobhán, Sheila, Miriam and Ale, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and neighbours.

May She Rest In Peace.

Eileen will be reposing at her residence today Monday from 1pm to 8pm. Removal will take place on Tuesday (March 4th) at 11.30am to S.S Peter & Paul’s Church, Kilanerin for Funeral Mass at 12 noon. Burial afterwards in Limbrick Cemetery, Kilanerin.

Bridge and Enniscorthy are winners at Kilmuckridge Drama Festival

By Dan Walsh

The 66th Kilmuckridge Drama Festival concluded last night at KMH in Kilmuckridge. The winners this year are Bridge Drama in the Open Section and Enniscorthy Theatre Company in the Confined Section.

Run under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland the 9-night festival was very well supported and was classified a big success by the organisers.

BRIDGE DRAMA GROUP

Imelda McDonagh was the adjudicator.

OPEN Section
1st; Bridge Drama; The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Conor Stephens.
2nd; Ballyduff Drama Group; The Blackwater Lightship by Colm Tóibín (adapted by Conor Horan).
3rd; Ballycogley Players; Lend Me a Tenor by Ken Ludwig.
CONFINED Section
1st; Enniscorthy Theatre Company; The Seafarer by Conor McPherson.
2nd; Kilmuckridge Drama Group; Juno and the Paycock by Séan O’Casey.

Jack Hendrick rides 100th winner at Borris

JACK HENDRICK achieved his 100th career success on Nevershedatear at Borris House. Also in the picture is Timmy Farrell, Lily McDonald (groom) and Thomas Byrne (handler). (Pic; WexfordLocal.com) 

By Dan Walsh at Borris House

Jack Hendrick achieved his 100th career winner and added another at the Carlow Farmers’ point-to-point at Borris House today. Garrett Murphy saddled his first double, and shared with rider Barry Stone, during the races held in Spring-like conditions.

25 years old Hendrick from Mayglass had been on the 99-winner mark for a while but recorded his 100th career winner on Nevershedatear by two lengths in division two of the maiden race for four-year-old mares. The owner/handler is Thomas Byrne, Kilmore, who had an exciting weekend. On Saturday Byrne was named ‘Man of the Match’ following Wexford’s defeat of Waterford in the Allianz GAA football league.

Hendrick made it a double success on Port Authority for Matthew Flynn O’Connor, Ballycrystal, Kiltealy, in the maiden race for five-year-olds.

Garrett Murphy’s Tullycanna Stables, Ballymitty, the Turbine Syndicate and Barry Stone, Cleariestown, teamed up for a double. Chosen Comrade bred by Francis Whelan, Duncormick, will be aimed at the sales ring following victory in division one of the maiden race for five-year-old mares. The second success of the day came with Moments In Time by 24 lengths in the maiden race for four-year-old geldings. This was a first double for handler Murphy.

Gearoid O’Loughlin who is operating from Cormac Farrell’s old yard at Ballyprecus, Bunclody, took the maiden race for six-year-olds and upwards with Night Time Lover to give Ballindaggin rider Cormac Byrne his second success in the saddle.

Two Meath stables made the trip to Borris House, Claire O’Connell from Ashbourne saddled Glenmalure Lady (Joey Dunne up) in the Jim Treacy Memorial Cup Winners of Two (for mares) race and scored by 14 lengths. Tony Martin from Summerhill saddled Lyreen Og in the Maureen Mullins Memorial maiden race for five-year-olds and upwards and survived a steward’s enquiry to claim the spoils and give rider James Costello from Athenry his first success in the saddle.

There was also point-to-point at Ballycahane, Co. Limerick, today, where the Harley Dunne owned and handled newcomer Ash Hobbs came home first by nine lengths under Oulart rider Bertie Finn in the maiden race for four-year-old mares.