Hosepipe ban effective from Saturday

By Dan Walsh

Uisce Éireann has confirmed that a Water Conservation Order — commonly known as a hosepipe ban — will come into effect across County Wexford from Saturday, July 26th until September 16th.

The Water Conservation Order has been issued in a bid to safeguard the water supply for essential purposes. These restrictions include the use of garden hoses and other non-essential water uses.  

The implementation of this Order follows a long period of dry weather combined with high demand, now placing severe pressure on water supplies across the county.  

It is essential that a Water Conservation Order is introduced to reduce the potential of restrictions and outages over the coming weeks and months.   

Rainfall in Wexford during May, June, and July this year to date has been significantly below average when compared to long-term rainfall records. A total of 130.8mm of rainfall was measured at the Johnstown Castle, weather station during this period, compared to an average of 219.6mm for the same months in previous years — just over 40% less rainfall recorded locally. 

FIONNUALA CALLERY (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

Fionnuala Callery, Regional Technical Operations Manager for Water at Uisce Éireann, told WexfordLocal.com; “Uisce Éireann’s top priority is to safeguard water supplies for homes, businesses, and essential services. While it may often feel like Ireland receives plenty of rain, the data shows the past 12 months have been unseasonably warm and dry. As a result, water sources across Wexford have not had their usual seasonal recharge, and we are now heading into the height of summer with lower-than-average water levels. 

“Although some rainfall is expected, it will not be sufficient to make a meaningful impact on the already low water levels,” said Ms. Callery, who added; “In response, we have ramped up efforts in leakage detection, pipe repair, and overall network management.

“We will continue to monitor water consumption while the Order remains in place. Protecting our water supply is essential if we are to avoid more severe restrictions or supply interruptions in the weeks and months ahead.

“The key message is to leave the hose and pressure washer in the shed. We are calling on everyone to do their part so we can maintain a sustainable water supply throughout the summer,” Ms. Callery added.  

The Conservation Order prohibits the use of garden hosepipes and other non-essential uses of water by domestic users, as well as commercial premises for non-commercial activities — such as watering gardens attached to a business premises.  

Members of the public can report leaks in the public water network 24/7 by calling 1800 278 278 or visiting water.ie.  

Swimming ban at 5 Wexford beaches

By Dan Walsh

DO NOT SWIM notices have been posted at five Wexford beaches – Ballymoney North, Carne, Morriscastle, Rosslare Harbour and St. Helens beaches.

The latest sampling conducted as part of Wexford County Council’s normal monitoring of bathing water quality, showed elevated levels of bacteria at the beaches.

Following consultation with the HSE, it is necessary to issue “DO NOT SWIM” warning notices at the above beaches in accordance with the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008 and in the interest of public health.

Further samples have been taken and results are expected next Saturday at which stage the bathing prohibition notices will be reviewed.  In addition, the Council’s Environmental Technical Team are investigating the matter. 

Bathing water quality results for 19 Wexford beaches sampled over the 2025 to date bathing season, have been mainly excellent as published on the EPA operated website www.Beaches.ie

Wexford County Council advises members of the public visiting the above beach to please abide by the public notices advising against swimming.

More information on bathing water quality can be obtained on www.beaches.ie

Alleged attack on Templeshannon Quay

By Dan Walsh in Enniscorthy

A man was rushed to hospital today following an incident opposite the Bus Stop on Templeshannon Quay, Enniscorthy, this afternoon. His injuries are unknown.

A seating area beside the River Slaney was cordoned off to the public for a period of time  around 1pm and Gardaí were on the scene.

While Gardaí confirmed that a person was taken to hospital they could not confirm what kind of weapon was used in the alleged attack, but locals claim that it was an iron bar!

An investigation has begun and if anyone has CCTV, DASHCAM or any footage of this incident or witnessed what happened they are asked to contact Enniscorthy Garda Station on 053 924250 or on the Garda Confidential line 1800 666 111.

There has been a number of incidents on Templeshannon Quay in recent months including intimidation and conflict at the Bus Stop.

All set for day two at the Wexford races

Parade ring scene at Wexford Racecourse today (Wednesday). Another day’s racing there again tomorrow (Thursday). (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Wexford Races

Tinahely trainer Philip Rothwell was an absentee at Wexford Races this afternoon although he supplied the only local winner on the 7-race all steeplechase card with Doran’s Law (9/2), owned by Tom Doran and sporting the green and red star colours made famous by the great Doran’s Pride who scored by four and three-parts of a length in the handicap chase.

It was a change of fortune for Tomhaggard jockey Tiernan Power-Roche who was handed a hefty 14-ban at Ballinrobe on Tuesday evening.

The day belonged to Waterford trainer Henry de Bromhead who saddled a treble on the card. Ma Belle Etoile (3/1) in the mares’ beginners chase and Nouvotic (6/4) in the beginners’ chase – both ridden by Darragh O’Keeffe.

De Bromhead’s treble came via Wonleg (5/2 fav.) -bred at Clonmore House Stud, Bree by Jonathan Deacon -in the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Chase ridden by Patrick O’Brien. “That was Patrick’s first ride for us. I thought he was really good and I am delighted for him,” said de Bromhead, who added; “He rides out for us one day a week.”

It was a great day for the Cody family from Dunamaggin, Co. Kilkenny who enjoyed success with War Correspondent (22/1), running in the colours of Gillian, trained by Ray and a first victory since turning professional for 19 years old jockey Paddy Cody.

Racing again at Bettyville Park tomorrow (Thursday). It’s themed Family Day, eight races, the first is off at 4.35pm.

THURSDAY, July 24th.

Going: Yielding.

4.35pm; Kilmore Quay (C&G) Maiden Hurdle. 2 miles 0.5 furlongs. (14 runners).

5.10pm; Curragh to Curragh Charity Cycle on August 30th Mares Maiden Hurdle. 2 miles 4.5 furlongs. (14 runners).

5.45pm; WTW Willis Ladies Handicap Hurdle. 2 miles 4.5 furlongs. (10 runners).

6.15pm; Fleadh Cheoil Wexford Handicap Hurdle. (Division 1) 3 miles. (14 runners)

6.47pm; Fleadh Cheoil Wexford Handicap Hurdle (Division 2) 3 miles (14 runners).

7.17pm; WTW Willis Handicap Hurdle. (Division 1) 2 miles 0.5 furlongs. (14 runners)

7.47pm; WTW Willis Handicap Hurdle (Division 2) 2 miles 0.5 furlongs (14 runners)

8.17pm; Park Run at Wexford Racecourse Saturday Mornings INH Flat Race. 2 miles 0.5 furlongs. (12 runners).

Crime figures climb in Riverchapel!

By Dan Walsh

GOREY GARDA STATION

Crime figures have reached a new high in North Wexford after two ladders were stolen in a mid-day break-in and theft at a premises in Riverchapel, Courtown.

Gardái in Gorey are investigating.

A break-in occurred between 12 noon and 1.30pm at Etchingham Heights housing estate in Riverchapel.

A door was kicked in, rooms were ransacked, and two ladders were taken from the premises.

Gardaí in Gorey are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, and who may have witnessed something, to come forward.

Contact the Gardaí in Gorey on 053 943 0690.

Expressway travel plans for the Fleadh

By Dan Walsh

Enjoy the craic and plan your journey to Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 in Wexford town, August 3rd-10th, travelling with Expressway Route 2.

Andrew Yates, Head of Expressway, Bus Éireann said: “Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is a wonderful celebration of our rich culture, heritage, music and community spirit and we are delighted that visitors to the event are being encouraged to use public transport. Expressway operates frequent services from Dublin, Wicklow and Waterford to and from this year’s event, but we would advise intending customers to plan their journeys ahead and book a seat in advance at expressway.ie to avoid disappointment.”

Expressway’s Route 2 (Wexford to Dublin) service operates 15 services a day in each direction from Monday to Saturday, with 11 services a day on Sundays and Bank Holidays, ideal for people travelling to this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.                                

Due to accommodation shortages from August 3rd-10th, an additional late-night service at 23:00 has been added to the Expressway Route 2 timetable for customers who are unable to stay in Wexford overnight and who wish to travel to Dublin, Arklow, Gorey, Enniscorthy, Ferns and Oylgate.                                          

The Expressway Route 2 departs from Wexford O’Hanrahan Station at 02:00, 04:00, 05:50, 07:00, 08:00, 09:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 17:00, 18:30, 20:30 and 23:00.

Customers travelling from Waterford to the event should note that the Expressway Route 40 also operates 6 services per day in each direction to/from Waterford.

For more information on Expressway services, please visit expressway.ie  

Two midweek race fixtures at Wexford

By Dan Walsh

Two race meetings this week at Bettyville Park on Wednesday afternoon and Ladies Day on Thursday evening and early ticket sales are still open.

Wednesday’s card comprises entirely of seven steeplechases while there are eight races on Thursday evening – seven over hurdles and an INH Flat Race. There is also a race confined to lady riders.

This is a marvellous opportunity to enjoy midsummer racing. The cards are as follows;

WEDNESDAY, July 23rd.

Going: Yielding to soft

2.08pm; Wexford Town Mares Beginners’ Chase. 2 miles

2.38pm; Forth Mountain Trails Beginners’ Chase. 2 miles.

3.08pm; Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Chase. 2 miles.

3.38pm; Wexford Racecourse Supporters’ Club Handicap Chase. 2 miles.

4.10pm; http://www.wexfordraces.ie Beginners’ Chase. 2 miles 3.5 furlongs.

4.45pm; Support the Irish Injured Jockeys Fund Handicap Chase. 3 miles 1.5 furlongs.

5.20pm; Racing Again Tomorrow Handicap Chase. 3 miles 1.5 furlongs.

THURSDAY, July 24th.

Going; Yielding

4.35pm; Kilmore Quay (C&G) Maiden Hurdle. 2 miles 0.5 furlongs.

5.10pm; Curragh to Curragh Charity Cycle on August 30th Mares Maiden Hurdle. 2 miles 4.5 furlongs.

5.45pm; WTW Willis Ladies Handicap Hurdle. 2 miles 4.5 furlongs.

6.15pm; Fleadh Cheoil Wexford Handicap Hurdle. (Division 1) 3 miles.

6.47pm; Fleadh Cheoil Wexford Handicap Hurdle (Division 2) 3 miles.

7.17pm; WTW Willis Handicap Hurdle. (Division 1) 2 miles 0.5 furlongs.

7.47pm; WTW Willis Handicap Hurdle (Division 2) 2 miles 0.5 furlongs

8.17pm; Park Run at Wexford Racecourse Saturday Mornings INH Flat Race. 2 miles 0.5 furlongs.

N.B.; Some may be confused about the race times, however, the irregular starting time is to facilitate Racing TV’s comprehensive racing coverage which includes meetings from the UK on both days.

National Play Day joy in Orchard Park

Play Day in the Orchard Peace Park in collaboration with FDYS and Creative Places Enniscorthy .

By Dan Walsh at Orchard Peace Park, Enniscorthy

Enniscorthy Municipal District, in collaboration with FDYS and Creative Places Enniscorthy, proudly celebrated National Play Day 2025 by hosting a lively celebration for families, children and community members together for a joyful afternoon in Orchard Peace Park.

Cllr Barbara Anne Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Enniscorthy Municipal District, praised the initiative, and said “play is such a powerful way to bring communities together.”

“Events like this remind us of the importance of creating spaces where children can thrive, families can connect, and everyone feels a sense of belonging. We were thrilled to see so many smiling faces and to support an initiative that puts the wellbeing of young people at its heart,” added Cllr Murphy.

The two-hour pop-up Play Event offered a wide range of engaging, play-based activities facilitated by Play Strategist Martin O’Donoghue, whose expertise helped turn the park into a hub of creativity and connection. 

Prior to the event, a hands-on training session took place at the FDYS centre, where local participants explored the value of play as a vital tool for community engagement, especially in work with children and young adults. 

Attendees of the training had the opportunity to put their new skills into action during the event, which proved to be a resounding success. 

Glorious sunshine set the perfect tone, while families delighted in imaginative games, interactive play zones, and a generous supply of refreshments and ice cream.

The National Play Day initiative was funded by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality under the National Play Day Funding Scheme 2025.

Man charged with €1.6m Ballycarney drugs haul

Gardaí and Revenue Customs officers seized €1.6 million worth of herbal cannabis at Ballycarney last Friday. (Pic; Revenue).

A 46-year-old man has been charged in connection with a €1.6m drugs haul  at Tincurry, Ballycarney, last Friday.

Vincent Fanning of Slaney Drive, Ballycarney, Enniscorthy, appeared before Judge Kevin Staunton at a special sitting of Gorey District Court.

Mr Fanning was charged with possession of a controlled drug for the purpose of selling or supply to another in contravention of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2017 and 2019 under Section 5 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1972 at Tincurry, Ballycarney, Enniscorthy, on July 18th.

Det Gda Dean Healy gave evidence of the arrest, charge and caution of Mr Fanning.

Defence Counsel Craig Phillips BL, instructed by solicitor Eoin O’Sullivan, said there would be no application for bail and applied for free legal aid.

Judge Staunton said he would grant free legal aid, subject to a statement of means being made available to the court.

Judge Staunton remanded the accused in custody to appear before Wexford District Court via video link on Tuesday night.

World record achieved at Rathangan Country Fair

These beautiful pair of horses didn’t take Sunday off, but were happy to work on world record day at the Rathangan Country Fair. (pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Rathangan Country Fair

A century of various  crop harvesting methods was staged as a successful world record attempt at the annual Rathangan Country Fair, specially titled A Century of Harvest, held today in summer conditions at Rathangan village in south Wexford.

Fourteen methods of harvesting the grain crops from the 20th century were all working together in the same field at the same time! It was an amazing sight and a colourful flashback to all associated with the farming methods that evolved traditionally from the days before horse-drawn implements to the modern combined harvesters.

The Country Fair was officially opened by Ceann Comhairle Verona Murphy TD, in the presence of Noel Grealish TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, Cllr Frank Staples, Leas-Cathaoirleach Rosslare Municipal District and Cllr Jim Codd,

There was a large attendance that included Anna May McHugh, Managing Director of the National Ploughing Association and the National Ploughing Champion 2024, Martin Kehoe, Foulksmills – three times world champion – who represents Ireland in the World Ploughing Championships in the Czech Republic later this year.

There was a warm welcome from Ray Rochford, Chairperson of Rathangan Country Fair Committee. “It gives me great pleasure to welcome everyone here today, to this unique and once-off event called ‘A Century of Harvest’.

“This event demonstrated the various methods of harvesting across Ireland over the past 100 years,” said Mr Rochford, who added; “To our knowledge this is the first time these methods are demonstrated simultainously within the same field.”

A wonderful 24-page catalogue was published in connection with the event.

The large attendance had access to food outlets, singing and dancing, a thatching display, threshing display, straw cropping and other attractions and watched Tipperary beat Cork in the All-Ireland senior hurling final at Croke Park on the big screen.