€880,000 contraband seized in Dublin, the Midlands and Rosslare

By Dan Walsh

This past week, week commencing 16/12/2024, Revenue officers seized contraband with an estimated value of over €880,000 in various operations in Dublin, the Midlands and Rosslare.

The detections included the following: Over 30kg of herbal cannabis, with an estimated value of almost €611,300; almost 2.35 kg of cocaine, with an estimated value of €164,500; various other illicit drugs, with an estimated value of almost €3,000; 251 items of counterfeit goods, with an estimated value of €83,000 and €9,900 in cash.

ROSSLARE EUROPORT (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

The alcohol and cigarettes seized – approximately 458 litres of alcohol, with an estimated value of over €10,000 and 1,310 cigarettes, with an estimated value of €1,200 – were of various brands.

These seizures were made as a result of risk profiling, when Revenue officers stopped and searched passengers passing through Rosslare Europort, and whilst examining parcels at premises in the Midlands. 

The cash was seized when Revenue officers stopped and searched a passenger passing through Rosslare Eurport. On 18/12/2024, Revenue officers were granted a cash detention order at Gorey District Court in respect of same. It is suspected that the cash is the proceeds of, or intended for use in, criminal activity and is detained by Revenue in accordance with proceeds of crime legislation.

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.

Local economic and community plan launch

Members and officials at the launch of the Local Economic and Community Plan in the Council Chamber. (Pic; Mary Browne)

By Dan Walsh

Wexford County Council officially launched the six-year plan to drive economic and community development – the “Local Economic and Community Plan” (LECP) 2024-2029, at the December meeting.

The plan sets out six ambitious high-level goals which were developed following extensive public consultation and builds on the foundations of the first LECP 2016-2021, but also takes into consideration emerging issues.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Pip Breen welcomed the Plan; “It provides us with a framework to continue supporting the sustainable growth of our local economy and communities and represents the commitment by Wexford County Council and key stakeholders to provide leadership towards the continued development of County Wexford as a wonderful place to live, invest in and visit.”

Chair of the LCDC, Cllr Aidan Browne stated; “The members the LCDC took the responsibility bestowed on them by statute very seriously in developing this strategic and defining plan for County Wexford. “Under the initial lead of the Advisory Steering Group, they reviewed and contributed to shaping the plans progression and ensuring that our consultants, KPMG Future Analytics, delivered to the highest standard in developing a plan to meet the needs and ambitions of County Wexford.

“We also wish to extend our thanks to the key stakeholders and members of the public who gave over their time during the consultation process to help develop the Plan. This is a clear indication of the desire of the people to seek the best for its community and influence the shaping of a sustainable future for County Wexford.”

Chief Officer of the LCDC, Dymphna O’Connor stated that the LECP, and the initial 2-year implementation plan sets out the commitments for economic and community development for Wexford and that it was important that all stakeholders and agencies now commit to working with the plan in all aspects of economic and community development within the county.

The plan is now available to be downloaded from the council’s website at www.wexfordcoco.ie

Gorey Visitor Centre closed its doors today?

CLLR JOE SULLIVAN braved a cold afternoon in Gorey to pay a final visit to Gorey Visitor Centre and is feeling sad at its closure to the public. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com).

By Dan Walsh in Gorey

After many threats to the security of its future Gorey Visitor Centre located in the historic Market House on Gorey’s Main Street closed its doors for the final time today (Sunday) “due to financial difficulties.”

It is a sad occasion for the North Wexford town and coastal tourism in the region, which, sadly like the whole tourism programme nationally is dependent on online promotion, which has its advantages, but tourism will decline without the “human touch and the character of the holiday and visitor experience to boost popularity and client satisfaction.”      

Voluntary Manager Cearúilín Ní Chonchubhair said; “In October, we thought we’d have to close, but we found ways to stay open as staff were still under contract, and we knew the centre’s value to the community and local artists. We asked artists for a €50 contribution to stay open until Christmas, and with generous support from the Gorey Community Development Group, committee members, and the North Wexford Historical Society, we can made it to Christmas week.

“If we had an affordable, centrally located space, we’d keep going into 2025 and continue providing much-needed tourist information. It’s sad to see it end,” added Cearúilín.

No doubt there will be calls upon Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District to establish a new tourist information facility in Gorey at a new location. Cllr Joe Sullivan told WexfordLocal.com that it is “very important that Gorey has a tourism information office, particularly in the height of the summer season, when large numbers of visitors are welcomed to enjoy what North Wexford has to offer.”

New Independent Cllr Nicky Boland said that “it is unthinkable that Gorey would be without a Visitor Centre going forward” and he paid tribute to the staff Gorey Community Development Group, local artists, community volunteers and staff to who kept the Visitor Centre running since the closure of the Market House for redevelopment last year.

Last year, saw its unexpected closure along with the risk of the community losing the Market House to developers, but there was a renewed hope when the community banded together and petitioned for the building to remain a community resource.

However, the successful THRIVE funding of €8.1 million for the designated heritage redevelopment of the Market House means it is closed to the public and creates necessity of a new premises and funding to revitalise Gorey Visitor Centre.

Plan all train journeys for Christmas and the New Year period

Connolly to Rosslare down train crossing the River Slaney at Enniscorthy (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh

There are many schedule changes on the Iarnród Éireann network, particularly in the Dublin region – far too many to list here – but the full schedule information throughout the Christmas/New Year period is available at www.irishrail.ie, and customers are advised to check their times before travelling on Intercity, DART and Commuter, as there are schedule alterations throughout this time on each day.

Due to track renewal works – Connolly to Grand Canal Dock closed from December 26th to January 5th inclusive. Iarnród Éireann is reminding customers of rail service arrangements over the Christmas and New Year holiday period.

In addition to schedule changes from December 24th to January 1st (New Year’s Day), inclusive, the late night DART and Commuter trains on New Year’s Eve, customers are reminded of the full track renewal of the line between Connolly and Pearse from December 26th to January 5th inclusive.

This will result in the line being closed between Connolly and Grand Canal Dock for the duration, with limited exceptions between Pearse and Grand Canal Dock for late night New Year’s trains, and daytime on Thursday and Friday, January 2nd and 3rd.

Customers are also reminded that pre-booking is strongly advised on Intercity services, particularly at busiest times.

No train services operating on any routes on Christmas Day Wednesday, December 25th and St Stephen’s Day Thursday, December 26th.

REMEMBER: Please check the exact times for your journey before travelling on all routes for all dates at www.irishrail.ie

We wish all our customers a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.

Celebrating 10 years of LEO in Wexford

By Dan Walsh

Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Wexford recently celebrated its 10th anniversary at Wexford County Council marking a decade of growth, innovation, and unwavering support for the local business community. This vibrant event showcased some of the best of local talent and enterprise in County Wexford.

The celebration featured a festive market and craft fair, bringing together products from client companies, many of whom are members of the Wexford Food Producers Network, local craft producers and students participating on the Student Enterprise Programme. The Wexford Presentation Choir opened the event with a beautiful performance of carols, setting the festive tone for the day.

Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr Pip Breen reflecting on the significance of LEO Wexford’s journey, remarked; “In recent years, the increased focus on economic development within the Council has added a new dimension to the work of LEO. By aligning economic development strategies with planning and other Council services, we have streamlined processes and delivered positive change. This integrated approach has enabled us to identify opportunities, address challenges, and create a more conducive environment for businesses to flourish.”

Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise at LEO Wexford, said; “this celebration is a moment to reflect on the incredible achievements of our local businesses and the LEO team. We look forward to the next decade and remain committed to supporting innovation, fostering growth, and providing the tools and resources our businesses need to thrive.”

Over the past decade, LEO Wexford has played an instrumental role in fostering entrepreneurship and supporting local businesses. The office has helped create 2,895 new jobs across various sectors, boosting the local economy.

LEO Wexford has provided critical financial support to local businesses, administering over €6.58 million in grant aid to 234 manufacturing and internationally traded service companies. Additionally, 18 businesses have been transferred to Enterprise Ireland for further export support. LEO Wexford’s Trading Online Voucher Scheme has helped 990 local businesses secure €2.11 million to develop new online revenue streams, a vital shift accelerated by the pandemic.

Businesses have had to navigated challenges such as Brexit, the Ukrainian war, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and adaptability.

As the anniversary celebrations come to a close, the message is clear: LEO Wexford will continue to be a pillar of support for local entrepreneurs, driving innovation and economic growth in the years ahead.

Man released without charge

By Dan Walsh

A man who was arrested in relation to the death of a 32 years old woman in Gorey, has been released without charge. 

PAULA LAWLOR

Paula Lawlor was found unresponsive at a residence in Baile Eoghain, Gorey shortly after 3am on Thursday. 

Gardaí said a post mortem examination has been completed by State Pathologist Dr. SallyAnne Collis. The results of the post mortem are not being released for operational reasons.

A man, aged in his 30s, was arrested in relation to the incident and detained at a Garda Station in the Eastern Region. He has since been released without charge. 

A file will now be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) and investigations into the matter are ongoing.

Gardaí are continuing to appeal to any witnesses to come forward. They are also seeking dash cam footage from motorists who were in the vicinity of Baile Eoghain at the time of the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Gorey Garda Station on 094 30690 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of Paula Lawlor, Gorey, Wexford / Tallaght, Dublin. Lawlor Paula, 19th December 2024, Gorey, Co. Wexford, and formerly of Aylesbury, Tallaght; suddenly, at her home. Beloved daughter of the late Sheila and Brendan and adored granddaughter of the late Eamon and Kathleen. Paula will be forever loved and very sadly missed by her heartbroken family especially her adored daughter Layla Rose, all her aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and wide circle of friends. May Paula rest in peace.

Reposing at the Brian McElroy Funeral Home, The Square, Tallaght (opposite Tallaght Stadium) on Friday (27th December) from 2pm to 6pm. Funeral Mass on Saturday (28th December) in St Marks Church, Springfield at 10am followed by cremation in Newlands Cross Crematorium at 12pm.

Chris Black speaks from the Poet’s Room

Poet Chris Black with Kristyna Simko and an appreciative audience at the Enniscorthy launch of his CD, Poetry from the Poet’s Room Vol.1 at Creative Grounds, Irish St., Enniscorthy, on Friday morning. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh in Enniscorthy

Poet Chris Black was a special guest at Creative Grounds in Enniscorthy this morning where he introduced his latest work – a spoken-word CD titled Poetry from the Poet’s Room Vol. 1 – fresh off the presses and ready for readership appreciation.

Welcomed by Kristyna Simko and Alfie O’Sullivan at Creative Grounds Chris’s latest work, a suite of 28 new poems from the Dubliner who has made Wexford his home was unveiled. The presentation is quite unusual in that all poems are in spoken-word form read by the poet himself!

Speaking to WexfordLocal.com, Chris believes that poetry has a lot to offer in this fast-paced instant world. “Reading or listening to poetry allows the opportunity to relax and explore ourselves and to switch off from the horrors of the outside world, for a brief time at least,” stated Chris.  

AUDIO ADDITION; Chris Black reads his poem A Place Called Solitude, one of 28 poems on his CD Poetry from the Poet’s Room Vol. 1.

Chris Black is well known for his poetry and has two books to his credit, and copies may still be available – Same Train Different Track (pub. 2016) and Down on the Farm (pub. 2023)

Poetry from the Poet’s Room Vol. 1 produced and recorded by Diarmuid Comerford in Creagh Studios, Gorey, is spoken-word poetry on a CD and is available to purchase at Creative Grounds, 3 Irish St., Enniscorthy. Would make a nice Christmas present for anyone who appreciates freshly composed poetry with a local flavour!

Chris Black’s written and spoken-word poetry can also be found on Istagram @purpleandgoldpoetry.

€6m to demolish ballroom and restore castle garden!

The main roof and stage roof of the Castle Ballroom is to be demolished to make way for a garden and public realm. This view from the roof of Enniscorthy Castle. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com).

By Dan Walsh at Enniscorthy Municipal District December meeting

Wexford County Council has purchased the former Castle Nite Club, will demolish it, and replace it with a garden and public realm at the rear of the castle, suggest a café/coffee dock and provide an elevated walkway terrace at the rear of Slaney Place, and of course, the provision of public toilets.

Details, which are at the earliest stage of the design process, were revealed by Executive Engineer David Whitty at last Tuesday’s December meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council held in the Council Chamber at the Presentation Centre. Cllr Aidan Browne, Cathaoirleach, presided.

The Castle Quarter is the middle tier in the 3-way Enniscorthy Town Centre First Plan which also features Market Square and Templeshannon.

Using a map from the 1860’s it is proposed to reclaim part of the original gardens at the rear of Enniscorthy Castle and recreate the garden recreation area enjoyed by the Roche family up to the early 1960’s that was replaced by the Castle Ballroom (later renamed the Castle Nite Club) which had a 2,000 sq.ft. dance floor and first opened with music from Mick Delahunty and his Band on October 16th 1964.

Mr Whitty told the meeting that it is an extremely import project. “There is potential for a new internal courtyard which would provide a base for cultural and heritage activities for the Athenaeum Hall and the castle,”said Mr Whitty, who added; “We want a development that would be appropriate for the status of Enniscorthy Castle, which is a national monument.”

And the estimated cost? Mr Whitty did not have an exact figure for the meeting, but estimated that the Castle Quarter development would cost, but it will be between €5 and €6 million! The project is not possible without URDF (Urban Rural Distruct Funding)!

Councillors were against the installation of a coffee dock as many felt “it is a waste of resources given the number of nearby cafés and restaurants.”

Cllr Cathal Byrne wants the 1798 artefacts to be brought back. Chair of the 1798 Rebellion Centre, Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy also made a contribution to the brief debate and Cllr Jackser Owens was relived that public toilets would be provided on site and that there will be no cable cars!

Director of Services Carolyne Godkin stated that “the plan is already technically difficult as it involves demolition and extensive renovations, and suggestions made by councillors  could make the cost excessive.”

The current plan will take many months to come to public consultation.

Take a dip for a cause

St. Helen’s Bay (FilePic; WexfordLocal.com)

By Dan Walsh

LauraLynn Ireland’s Children’s Hospice invites people from Wexford to brave the icy waters next Saturday, December 22nd and make a splash for a great cause by signing up for Dip In for LauraLynn. 

From Kilpatrick Beach in North Wexford to Dollar Bay, near Duncannon, LauraLynn is asking supporters to raise funds through sponsorship and take the plunge at a swimming spot of their choice. The challenge is an important annual fundraiser for the Children’s Hospice supporting children with life-limiting conditions and their families.  

To take part participants register on the LauraLynn website where they will receive a free blue Santa hat, as well as their own sponsorship page. 

Funds raised from the Dip In for LauraLynn challenge will help LauraLynn provide essential care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families from across the country. 

LauraLynn Fundraising Executive Cathy White commented; Dip In for LauraLynn is a wonderful opportunity for people to come together, have fun, and support a cause that truly makes a difference. Whether you are a seasoned sea swimmer or a first-time cold dipper, we would love to see you out in your blue LauraLynn Santa hat. The funds raised will allow us to continue supporting children with palliative care needs and their families all over Ireland.” 

LauraLynn is calling on supporters from all over Ireland to take part in this exhilarating event. Participants are encouraged to dip into the chilly waters just before Christmas for this very important fundraiser. 

For more information, FAQs, and to register for the event, please visit LauraLynn.ie or contact Cathy at challenges@lauralynn.ie. 

Gardai investigating death of woman in Gorey

An incident room has been established at Gorey Garda Station (File Pic; Wexfordlocal.com)

By Dan Walsh

Gardaí in Gorey are investigating the death of a woman in her 30’s following an incident in the early hours of this morning (Thursday). The deceased has been named locally as Paula Lawlor.

Shortly after 3am, Gardaí and emergency services responded to an incident at a residence in Baile Eoghain, Gorey, where the woman was found unresponsive. She was pronounced deceased at the scene.

A man in his 30’s has been arrested in connection with the incident and is currently detained at a Garda station in the Eastern Region under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984.

The scene is preserved for examination by the Garda Technical Bureau. The Office of the State Pathologist and local Coroner have been notified and a post-mortem examination will be arranged.

A senior investigating officer has been appointed to lead the investigation and an incident room has been established at Gorey Garda Station. A family liaison officer (FLO) has also been assigned to support the family.

Gardaí are appealing to witnesses to come forward. Additionally, they are seeking dashcam footage from motorists who were in the vicinity of Baile Eoghain at the time of the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Gorey Garda Station on 094 30690 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111. Investigations are ongoing.