Taoiseach to attend Wexford IFA commemoration

By Dan Walsh

An Taoiseach SIMON HARRIS TD (Pic; gov.ie)

An Taoiseach Simon Harris has confirmed he will be guest speaker at the Wexford IFA 70th anniversary Gala Dinner taking place in the Riverside Park Hotel, Enniscorthy, next Saturday evening.

IFA president Francie Gorman and President of Wexford IFA Jer O’Mahony will also be amongst the speakers.

Mr O’Mahony said the most important aspect of the evening is to hear the stories of IFA members. “For me, it’s about the history. A lot of people today, and a lot of members would not understand the efforts that people 30, 40, 50 years ago put into the IFA. They had very little representation in terms of power. People just didn’t listen to them,” he said.

“It will be a great night, it will be full of stories, full of fun. It will also be a reflection for everybody on how far farming has come and changed in the past 70 years, with the help of the IFA,” added Mr O’Mahony, who is a beef and tillage farmer from Wellingtonbridge and soon to complete his term as Wexford IFA chair.

Alice Doyle, the IFA Deputy President, who farms at Ballyoughter, Gorey, alongside husband Tom on their beef and tillage farm outlined the long and proud history of the IFA in Wexford which has 54 branches.

In the 1960’s, Ms. Doyle said that farmers from across the country took to the roads and walked to Dublin from around the country as part of a national protest for better rights.

She said that around 80 farmers, including some from Wexford, were jailed in Mountjoy prison for a time for refusing to pay fines.

In 1980, a group of farmers from Wexford took a landmark legal action, which resulted in the abolition of rates for farmers. End of the so-called Griffith’s Valuation of Ireland system.

Wexford IFA (Irish Farmers’ Association) was known as the NFA (National Farmers’ Association) when it was established on January 6th, 1955.

Much of the history of Wexford IFA can be found in the IFA Farm Centre, Mill Park Road, Enniscorthy, which was opened in 1977.

Carrie Finn celebrates being first time author

Author CARRIE FINN signing copies of her book In My Own Time at the launch in Gorey Library today. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh at Gorey Library

Gorey Library was a busy venue this afternoon for the celebration and launch of a new book called In My Own Time from a new local author Carrie Finn. 

Originally from Dublin but living in the Gorey area for the past 17 years, Carrie is a proud first-time self-published author.

Carrie enjoyed the occasion and was busy signing copies after reading several passages from her work in the presence of a captive audience.

Two decades in the making, In My Own Time explores the early heartache Carrie experienced when she lost her Dad, to having three children by the age of 26 and navigating Autism, ADHD, and their family being built around a huge secret that could have blown their world apart.

This book is also the story of two teenagers who had everything stacked against them from the start but created a unique and loving family despite it all.

Carrie’s memoir speaks to parents, especially parents of children with special needs, those grabbling with mental health struggles, and anyone touched by grief or feeling like the ‘black sheep’.

“It offers comfort and empowerment, showing that the bravest journey is often the one where we embrace our true selves.

“This book tells it all. The good, the bad and the hard truths. It is our story,” Carrie told WexfordLocal.com at the well-attended launch.

In My Own Time by Carrie Finn, 150 pages, is available for purchase at www.carriefinnauthor.com

Barry O’Neill double at Tinahely today

By Dan Walsh

The Shillelagh & District point-to-point cancelled due to weather conditions last Sunday was rescheduled for today (Saturday) and action took place after surviving an 8am inspection.

Highlight of the day was a double for Barry O’Neill who won for the 20th time on David Christie’s 11-year-old Winged Leader who scored his remarkable 15th successive success in the Open Race.

The Fermanagh-based handler was delighted with the victory. “I was worried today because we missed a lot of work. You wouldn’t get on our gallop this morning with the frost. We’ve done very little with him all week.” 

The victory is a 28th in the point-to-point fields alone for Winged Leader and his 32nd overall. Barry O’Neill has ridden him to victory on 20 occasions. O’Neill scored a double on Last Round for Gordon Elliott’s Meath stablers, who in turn enjoyed a Tinahely double with Welcome Back (Harry Swan) taking the maiden race for five-year-old geldings.

ROBERT TECTOR was a winner at Tinahely today. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

Racing got under way with the maiden race for five-year-old mares and a six lengths success for newcomer Chanonry Point handled by Robert Tector at Coolbawn, Rathnure, and ridden by Jamie Scallan.

Niall Heffernan and handler Richie Rath, Screen, saddled Bob The Builder in the Winner of One race for novice riders and with Frankie Murphy up the result was a six lengths victory.

Josh Berry from Tomhaggard was aboard Richieandsams Lady for the Run For Fun Partnership and Darragh Berry in the mares’ maiden race which concluded in a nice eight lengths victory.

A second fixture, Ballindenisk in Cork, also postponed from last Sunday went ahead today and the five-year-old mares maiden provided Rob James with a victory with Carry On Heidi for the local Baragry family from Fermoy.

Garry Murphy from Ballymitty saddled Loaded and Locked for the Turbine Syndicate and the result was a one length victory under Ross Sugrue in the maiden race for five-year-old geldings.

Donnchadh Doyle and the Monbeg Syndicate were also on the winning sheet. Er Dancer won the Open race for novice riders to give Alan Harney a well deserved winner.

Freezing weather is gone for now!

This was the frosty scene at Gorey Town Park playground on Thursday. Even the slides were out of bounds. Weather improving for the weekend with temperatures creeping into double figures again. (Pic; Michael O’Callaghan).

Cloud will increase from the southwest today with patchy rain and drizzle developing over south Leinster. Elsewhere will stay dry. Still feeling quite cold with highest temperatures of 3 to 6 degrees with easterly winds increasing moderate.

Tonight; Cloudy tonight with outbreaks of rain and drizzle spreading northeastwards. Not as cold as previous nights with lowest temperatures of 1 to 3 degrees in a light to moderate southeast breeze.

Tomorrow; Tomorrow (Saturday) will be cloudy with outbreaks of rain clearing into the Irish Sea by afternoon, though isolated patches of drizzle will linger through the day. Highest temperatures of 6 to 8 degrees in light to moderate southerly winds.

Wexford features in USA TV show

Michael Londra has a new show – number 5 in the series – of ‘Ireland with Michael’ on PBS TV in America. Pic; michaellondra.com

By Dan Walsh

Well-known Wexford singer and entertainer, Michael Londra, has a new series starting this week on PBS TV in America called ‘Ireland with Michael’ where he will be highlighting the best three tourism attractions in the South-East – counties Wexford, Waterford and Kilkenny.

A singer, producer and TV show host, Michael’s production is broadcast to millions of people across the USA and this year marks series 5 of the hit show.

In a forthcoming episode, while in Wexford, Michael will focus attention on his hometown’s finest cultural and historical highlights including Wexford Arts Centre, where the Frederick Douglass exhibit – part of Ireland’s Frederick Douglass Trail – connects local history with global significance.

Frederick Douglas (1818-1895) was an American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer and statesman. This poignant feature highlights Wexford’s historic commitment to justice and equality, linking the county with the broader story of the American Civil Rights Movement.

Bridging Ireland’s Ancient East and the world, Michael Londra has always been more than a performer; he’s a proud ambassador for his hometown and the south east region!  Whether through his Emmy-nominated PBS special, his music and travel series, live concerts, or guided tours, he has introduced countless people to the heart of Ireland as a whole.

For 2025, Michael has curated eight guided tours designed for those inspired by the show, offering visitors the chance to experience Waterford, Wexford and Kilkenny first hand with bespoke itineraries that includes local landmarks, unforgettable meals, and scenic countryside, his show ensures that every visitor leaves with a true taste of Ireland.

A former lead tenor of Riverdance, on Broadway, his passion for his homeland shines in all his work. His commitment to preserving and sharing Irish culture has garnered him fans worldwide. A skilled theatrical producer, Michael is also a lead producer of ‘Get Happy’, a Broadway-bound musical set to premiere in 2025, based on the MGM classic movie ‘Summer Stock’.

Michael Londra from Wexford town has had a distinguished career. In June 2013, he was invited to perform in Arlington, Virginia, at the graveside of President John F. Kennedy as part of the JFK 50 celebrations. He also performed in New Ross for visiting guests including Caroline Kennedy and many members of the Kennedy family. He performed Amazing Grace with Judy Collins. 

He was made Wexford Ambassador in 2012 along with Eoin Colfer, Colm Tóibín and Dermot O’Leary. In 2015 he partnered with Steve Peters of Venuworks, to form a theatrical production company. Their first venture, NOËL, is a musical written by Eoin Colfer and Liam Bates debuted at the National Opera House in December 2016.

Ferns Boil Water Notice lifted

By Dan Walsh

The Boil Water Notice on the Ferns Public Water Supply has been lifted with immediate effect. 

Uisce Éireann can confirm that, following consultation with the Health Service Executive, customers can now resume normal use of the public water supply. 

The notice was issued on January 5th to protect the health of approximately 1,723 customers following elevated turbidity which affected treatment at Ferns Water Treatment Plant.

Drinking water experts from Uisce Éireann worked to lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible. Following satisfactory water sampling results, the notice has now been lifted.  

FERNS (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

Uisce Éireann’s Fionnuala Callery acknowledged the impact of a Boil Water Notice on customers and thanked the community for their support while the notice was in place. 

“Uisce Éireann’s primary focus remains the protection of public health and we worked with our stakeholders to lift the notice as quickly as possible. We are grateful to customers, elected representatives, and the media for their assistance in sharing information on the Boil Water Notice,” Ms. Callery told WexfordLocal.com this evening.

Colourful Christmas winners congratulated

By Dan Walsh

Wexford County Council’s 2024 Christmas Decoration Competition winners were announced at a special ceremony in County Hall, Wexford, recently, where Cathaoirleach of Wexford Country Council, Cllr Pip Breen was on hand to present the awards and congratulate the many prize-winners.

Cllr Breen said; “The Christmas Decoration Competition for schools has been an annual tradition in Wexford since 2004. Each year the decorations get more innovative and creative and show how items that normally end up as waste can be given new life through reuse.

“Those who have participated in this competition have shown us all how to reduce waste by making unusual Christmas decorations from everyday household waste materials. Reusing our items is a positive climate action that we can all do simply. The decorations displayed today show great imagination and are an inspiration to us all.”

The overall primary school winner was created by Harry Siggins, St Kevin’s National School, Tara Hill. Harry made the winning decoration entitled ‘Christmas Wreath’ by simply using cardboard, used coffee pods and lids. Harry is seen here with Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council and Cliona Connolly, Environment Awareness Officer, Wexford County Council.

Hundreds of children around the county participated in the competition which was open to all primary and secondary school children. Cliona Connolly, Environment Education Officer with Wexford County Council stated that “the aim of the competition is to encourage children to make creative Christmas decorations with waste materials, fostering the ethos of reuse wherever possible. 

“Schools around the county were invited to make a Christmas decoration out of waste materials. Numerous schools throughout Wexford participated in the competition and one entry per category from each school was put forward to the County Final. Among this years’ submissions were angels, cribs, wreaths, tree decorations, Christmas village scenes and Christmas trees”, concluded Ms. Connolly.

All 188 decorations received were displayed in County Hall and received great praise. The People’s Choice award proved to be a great success again this year where members of the public voted for their favourite decoration on display. Jaxson Redmond, Screen National School, secured this award with his decoration ‘The Candy Shop’.

A group category proved to be a huge success again this year as it encourages children to work together to make amazing decorations from as young as junior infants.

The overall primary school winner was created by Harry Siggins, St Kevin’s National School, Tara Hill. Harry made the winning decoration entitled ‘Christmas Wreath’ by simply using cardboard, used coffee pods and lids.

The Overall Runner-up was an entry entitled ‘Gonk’ by Eli Atkinson, 4th class, Scoil Naomh Bhríde, Blackwater.

Other winning decorations included  ‘Gingerbread Man’ by Eve Byrne, Junior Infants, Ballyduff National School; ‘Christmas Wreath’ by Patrick Skelton, Senior Infants, Kilmyshall National School; ‘My Christmas Candle’ by Ava Lewis, 1st Class, St Mary’s National School, Ballygarrett; ‘Santa’s Grotto’ by Saoirse Cleary,  2nd Class, St Iberius National School, Wexford; ‘Christmas Tree’ by Jack Corish, 3rd class, Kilrane National School; ‘Christmas Tree and Jesus Born’ by Zlata Maria, 4th Class, Bunscoil Loreto, Gorey; ‘Christmas Cap Tree’ by Tara Southern, 5th class, Scoil Iosagáin, Coolgreany; ‘My Kindness Calendar’ by Orla Stafford, 6th class, Monageer National School. ‘Christmas Carol Singing at Recycling Lane’ by Amy O’ Brien, FCJ Bunclody.

Primary school group categories winners included ‘Crann na Nollaig’ by Kara Werner, Ellie Werner and Laura O’ Leary, Mercy School, John’s Rd., Wexford; and ‘Christmas Tree’ by junior infant pupils Danescastle National School.

Congratulations to all who participated.

Contraband seized in Dublin and Rosslare

By Dan Walsh

Over the course of past week, commencing on December 30th, Revenue officers seized contraband, with an estimated value of €260,000, in various operations in Dublin and Rosslare.

The cigarettes and tobacco were seized when Revenue officers stopped and search passengers passing through Rosslare Europort.

This included 1,380 cigarettes, with an estimated value of €1,250 and representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of almost €600, and 6.1kg of tobacco, with an estimated value of €5,400 and representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of almost €4,100.

The illicit drugs were discovered, with the assistance of detector dogs Ciara and Enzo, by Revenue officers examining parcels at a premises in Dublin. The parcels had originated in the UK, Spain, India and Thailand, and were destined for addresses nationwide.

The counterfeit goods were seized as they were confirmed by the Rights Holder to have infringed on Intellectual Property Rights.

Investigations into all seizures are ongoing.

These seizures are part of Revenue’s ongoing operations targeting smuggling and shadow economy activity. If businesses, or members of the public, have any information regarding smuggling, they can contact Revenue in confidence on 1800 295 295.

Wexford General Hospital development plans

Manager of Wexford General Hospital, Linda O’Leary, said; “We’re very excited to share the first images of the Somerton Suite with the people of Wexford. It’s something the people of Wexford should be very excited about,” (artists impression).

By Dan Walsh

Plans for development at Wexford General Hospital are underway, but it could be three to five years before the works are completed and all beds are occupied.

Beginning with a multi-storey car park and enabling works, the development will see that car park available for use as of January 2026. Thereafter, the much publicised and promised 97-bed unit – to be named the Somerton Wing- will commence work with a partial to full occupation anticipated as of the early months of 2028.

It is reported that upgrade works have begun this week and works to install a permanent MRI facility at Wexford General Hospital also began this week with an anticipated completion date of late January 2026 and operational use expected by the summer of the same year.

The six-storey Somerton Suite will be constructed towards the front of the hospital, where the current car park is. The long-sought extension will consist of three general wards, one specialist ward, occupational therapy and physical therapy rooms, a staff changing area and other ancillary accommodation.

Manager of Wexford General Hospital, Linda O’Leary, said; “We’re very excited to share the first images of the Somerton Suite with the people of Wexford. It’s something the people of Wexford should be very excited about,” she concluded.

Taoiseach Simon Harris visits Gorey

TAOISEACH SIMON HARRIS was in Gorey today.

By Dan Walsh

Taoiseach Simon Harris and Minister of State with responsibility for Special Education and Inclusion Hildegarde Naughton were both in Gorey today (Tuesday) and officially opened Scoil Chnoc Ghuaire -Gorey Hill Special School- in the town.

The special school provides an appropriate education for students, aged 4 to 18 years old, who have complex learning needs or a diagnosis of autism and complex learning needs.

The Taoiseach said; “I am delighted to see schools like Gorey Hill Special School opening in the community. The school provides a vital role in providing tailored education for children with additional needs and are designed to offer children an environment where they can thrive both academically and socially.

“Although we are making good progress in this area, we need to do more, and we will continue to work hard to deliver for children with additional needs.

“With the Budget announced for this year, over €2.9 billion will be allocated to provide supports for children with special educational needs.”

Government Chief Whip and Minister of State with Special Education and Inclusion, Hildegarde Naughton said; “I am so happy to see Gorey Hill Special School officially opened. This is such an exciting and important day, especially for the children and young people who are at the very heart of everything we celebrate today.

“These schools are a place where children will feel welcomed, supported, and valued for who they are. It will be a place where they can grow, learn, and achieve in a way that suits their unique strengths and abilities.

“Every child deserves to feel connected to their school and community which will be made a reality in the new special school in Gorey,” concluded Minister Naughton.

Gorey is now in the new 3-seat constituency of Wicklow-Wexford and local elected TD’s Brian Brennan, Malcolm Byrne and Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin were in attendance.

The new constituency also includes the jurisdiction of many members of Wexford County Council, representing the Gorey-Kilmuckridge district, however, today’s event appears to have omitted an invitation for the public representatives from this huge district that will be taking important local issues before the Wexford local authority?