Gardai from the National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau have arrested five people in a major intelligence surveillance operation that was carried out at a remote farmhouse in the Kilmuckridge district of Co. Wexford last night.
During the search over 100kg of cocaine, estimated to be worth over €7 million, concealed in an articulated truck on the farm, was discovered.
Four people who are said to be middle-aged men, were arrested at the scene and vehicles were seized.
Follow-up searches were carried out in Dublin and Wexford and a fifth person was arrested in Dublin.
Those arrested are expected to appear in court tomorrow or in the next few days.
This operation involves numerous officers from all over the country and is mainly targeting a crime group based in West Dublin but other gangs are also involved.
Gardaí say this is a live operation and they won’t be commenting any further.
The Independent Living Movement Ireland (ILMI) is thrilled to announce the official launch of the Wexford Disabled Persons Organisation (DPO), taking place tomorrow, Wednesday, from 12-2pm at the Seamus Rafter Suite in Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy.
The launch event marks a significant milestone in the ongoing work of the VOICE project, a unique community development initiative funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development. The VOICE project is specifically designed to address the local issues that disabled people face, and it is led by disabled people, for disabled people—making it truly unique.
RIVERSIDE PARK HOTEL, ENNISCORTHY (File Pic; Wexford Local.com)
“We are excited to bring together disabled people in Wexford to form a strong, united voice through the Wexford DPO,” said Lavinia MacNeill, a disabled woman based in Gorey who is also a member of ILMI. “This launch is more than just an event; it is the beginning of a movement within Wexford that will empower disabled people to advocate for change in their communities.”
Attendees of the launch will have the opportunity to join a community of like-minded, passionate, and dedicated individuals who understand the importance of collective action. The Wexford DPO will serve as a platform for disabled people to come together, share their experiences, and work towards creating a more inclusive and accessible society.
ILMI invites all disabled people aged 16 and over in Wexford to join this historic launch and become part of a collective that is dedicated to making a difference. Together, we can create a future where the voices of disabled people are heard and valued in all aspects of life.
For more information about the event or the VOICE project, please contact ILMI at paulasoraghan@ilmi.ie or call Paula on 087 1630433.
Revenue officers at Rosslare Europort have discovered 26,360 litres of beer with an estimated value of over €105,000, representing a potential loss to the Exchequer of €49,200.
The alcohol arrived in Rosslare via an accompanied trailer which had disembarked a ferry from Dunkirk, France and following an investigation both the trailer and the alcohol products were seized.
These seizures are part of Revenue’s ongoing work targeting smuggling and shadow economy activity. If businesses, or members of the public have any information, they can contact Revenue in confidence on 1800 295 295.
The success of Fleadh Cheoil nah Éireann 2024 was celebrated with a Civic Reception hosted by Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Cllr Pip Breen, to honour over 400 volunteers for their tireless efforts. It was held in County Hall, Wexford, last Saturday.
“Your willingness to share your time by volunteering for the Fleadh 2024 says a lot about each of you as human beings. Your commitment and enthusiasm over the week showed in every task you were given and the feedback that we have received about the volunteers has been heartwarming,” said Cllr Breen, who added; “We have received comments from far and wide about the positivity, professionalism and can-do attitude of our Fleadh 24 volunteers and we are very proud of you all.”
Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, and Chairperson of the Wexford Fleadh Executive Committee said the 2024 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will go on record as a resounding success. “This success could not have been achieved without the contribution of our volunteers. You stewarded events, greeted our visitors to the town and made people feel welcome, you ensured our streets were kept spotless throughout the week – even with 650,000 people passing through our streets.
“Each and every contribution was valuable and significant and made the Fleadh a better event, and for that we thank you. We look forward to welcoming you back next year for an even bigger and better Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025,” concluded Mr Taaffe.
The Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 takes place from August 3rd-10th in Wexford Town.
Nina and Gillian of Sully Juno with Minister Emer Higgins, Minister of State with responsibility for Business, Employment and Retail, and Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development, Wexford County Council.
By Dan Walsh
The annual National Ploughing Championships take place at Ratheniska, Co. Laois, this week – Tuesday to Thursday, September 17th-19th – with an expected attendance of ca-300,000, and with massive Wexford interest WexfordLocal.com has traffic information courtesy of An Garda Siochana, but look out for Wexford’s Sensory Friendly Clothing Brand, Sully and Juno.
Sully and Juno will be in the Local Enterprise Village, proudly supported by Local Enterprise Office Wexford, and is Ireland’s only designer and manufacturer of clothing specifically tailored to meet the sensory needs of the wearer.
Their sensory-friendly designs, a first in Ireland, cater to individuals of all ages, with sizes ranging from newborn to 5XL.Each piece in the Sully and Juno collection is thoughtfully crafted with the wearer in mind, featuring flat seams, tag-free construction, and soft, organic, sustainable fabrics. The garments are not just practical but also beautifully colourful, ensuring that sensory-friendly clothing doesn’t compromise on style.
Sully and Juno will be one of over 30 small businesses featured in the Local Enterprise Village, which is situated at the heart of this year’s National Ploughing Championships.
The Local Enterprise Village has become a must-visit spot at the event, offering visitors the chance to discover and support some of Ireland’s most exciting small businesses.
Nina and Gillian of Sully and Juno said; “We’re absolutely thrilled to have been nominated by the team at LEO Wexford to showcase our sensory-friendly clothing at the National Ploughing Championships. This opportunity allows us to bring our unique, inclusive designs to a wider audience, and we’re excited to share the passion and care that goes into each piece we create.”
Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development, Wexford County Council said; “This is an opportunity like no other for a small business in Ireland. The chance to bring their ideas and products to almost 300,000 potential customers is a showcase like no other. The Local Enterprise Village has become one of those must-visited areas where everyone wants to discover local businesses and see what unique products they can bring home.”
TRAVEL INFORMATION FROM Co. WEXFORD TO RATHENISKEA, Co. LAOIS FOR THE 2024 NATIONAL PLOUGHING CHAMPRIONSHIPS. (Source; An Garda Siochana).
YELLOW ROUTE; Traffic from South East/ Carlow
Traffic travelling from Carlow and South East will travel through Simmons Mill Crossroads on the N80 and continue forward towards Stradbally town where traffic will turn left at St. Joseph’s Cemetery onto the L3839 and go to Timogue Cross Roads where it will proceed straight onto L7835 (One-way system). Traffic will proceed to parking beside the event grounds. Parking: Patrons travelling this route will park in the designated YELLOW car parks on the left hand side of the L7835 beside the event grounds at Ratheniska
GREY ROUTE; Traffic from South East (Kilkenny)
Traffic travelling from Kilkenny/South East along the N78, through Castlecomer, will turn left at Newtown Cross Roads and continue forward along the R430 to The Swan. Just outside The Swan Village, traffic will turn right onto the R426 and continue to Timahoe Village. Traffic will continue through Timahoe village on the R426 towards Money Cross. At Loughteague Lane, traffic will turn right onto L78354. Traffic will proceed to parking by turning right off the L7837 and proceeding to the car parks. Parking: Patrons travelling this route will park in GREY car park, which is off the right hand side of the R427 adjacent to the site.
Well-known businessman Sam McCauley has been making the sporting headlines these days – he was recently honoured with the official opening of McCauley Park at the Rapparees-Starlights GAA stadium in his native Enniscorthy – and today at the Champions Weekend at the Curragh he is celebrating a Group One success in the Goff’s Vincent O’Brien National Stakes with 12/1 winner Scorthy Champ.
SAM McCAULEY watching his horse win a Group 1 race at the Curragh today. “I was nearly too nervous, and it was as good as seeing Wexford win an All-Ireland!” (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
Running in the colours of Rectory Road Holdings Limited. Scorthy Champ is trained by Joseph O’Brien, son of champion trainer Aidan from Poulpeasty, was confidently ridden by Dylan Browne McMonagle and had three quarters of a length to spare at the finish. It was the second victory from three outings for the classy two-year-old colt. He won on his first run at Leopardstown last May.
Afterwards, Joseph O’Brien, who previously won the prestigious National Stakes twice as a jockey (2014-’15) and this is his third as a trainer (2020 and 2022) said; “I am delighted for Barry Fowler (owner) who is in the partnership with Sam McCauley and has been such a good supporter of ours for the last number of years. It is so special to win a Group 1 here this weekend.”
O’Brien added; “I don’t know what he will do next but if I was to guess, I’d say he will run again this season. I see him more as a miler so the Prix Lagardere or the Breeders Cup are options.”
A delighted Sam McCauley said; “I was nearly too nervous, and it was as good as seeing Wexford win an All-Ireland! The name comes from Enniscorthy. When I was at school people would say ‘come on Scorthy’.”
Johnny Moore, the late Anne McMorris represented by her son and daughter, John and Felicity, and Pauline McGann, RNLI Community Manager (Ireland East) pictured at the presentation of RNLI Certificates of Thanks at Kilmore Quay. (Pic; RNLI/Elaine Walsh).
By Dan Walsh
Two of Kilmore Quay RNLI’s dedicated fundraising volunteers were presented with RNLI Certificates of Thanks in recognition of their longstanding service to the charity that saves lives at sea.
As an independent charity organisation, the RNLI relies on donations to fund its life saving work. Kilmore Quay lifeboat crew are on call day and night throughout the year. To sustain this service, well-maintained equipment, lifeboats, shore equipment and ongoing training are required. None of this would be possible without the enthusiasm, commitment, and drive of dedicated local fundraisers.
Congratulations to Anne McMorris and Johnny Moore. Anne was a diligent Station Treasurer at Kilmore Quay for over 34 years. Sadly, Anne passed away earlier this year after a long and courageous battle with illness. Accepting the award on her behalf were her son and daughter, John and Felicity.
Johnny joined Kilmore Quay RNLI as shore crew in 1987 and currently holds the role of Launching Authority in addition to being a dedicated member of the fundraising team for the last 25 years.
Speaking at the event Pauline McGann, RNLI Community Manager (Ireland East) said; “Volunteers like Anne and Johnny are the lifeblood of the RNLI. They have done trojan work raising vital funds for the charity and I am delighted to be here today to recognise their hard work and commitment. We could not do what we do without the vital support of our incredible volunteers.’
Also presented with Certificates of Service by Coxswain Eugene Kehoe were Victor Gore and PJ Bates. Victor served as a crew member from 2013 to 2023. During his service Kilmore Quay Lifeboat rescued 11 lives. PJ served as a crew member from 1997 to 2023 also qualifying as a Navigator. During his service Kilmore Quay Lifeboat rescued 53 lives.
Speaking following the event, Coxswain Eugene Kehoe said; “We have a long tradition of life-boating here in Kilmore Quay thanks to our dedicated volunteers. We are very proud of all our volunteers, the fundraisers, shop volunteers, shore crew and sea-going crew, and the way they do what they do to help save lives at sea.”
Also presented with Certificates of Service by Coxswain Eugene Kehoe were Victor Gore and PJ Bates. (Pic; RNLI/Elaine Walsh)
Author Caroline Busher with her 5th novel ‘The Boy Who Slipped Through Time’ launched by playwright Billy Roche in Wexford Library today.(Pic; WexfordLocal.com.)
By Dan Walsh at Wexford Library
Caroline Busher is an Irish Times best-selling author of fiction for children bringing Irish heritage and history to life through creative writing and storytelling and her fifth novel ‘The Boy Who Slipped Through Time’ was launched in Wexford Library today (Saturday) by well-known Wexford playwright and writer Billy Roche.
Billy was full of praise for Caroline’s writings and her achievements, wished her well with her latest publication, and said it was an absolute honour to be asked to launch the book.
Caroline welcomed family and friends and all who turned up at the well-attended launch, did a few short readings and urged everyone to go out and buy a copy of the book! But she was clearly overwhelmed by the support shown towards her work and repeated her appreciation for all the support.
Caroline’s friend and traditional musician, Helen Dunbar, brought along her tin whistle and “brought the house down” with her tender rendition of the famous Wexford ballad, ‘Boolavogue’.Refreshments followed.
Caroline grew up in a Victorian House in the North West of England. As an only child Caroline spent her days reading books and writing fantastical stories. She now lives at Enniscorthy and “believes that it is the most magical place on earth.”
Caroline worked as “Reader in Residence” with Wexford Public Library Services for a few years. She is a writer in residence in a primary school setting and is a heritage expert with The Heritage Council of Ireland. Caroline is also a writer on the Poetry Ireland Writers in Schools Scheme, and she is an Arts in Education Practitioner on the Teacher Artist Partnership and the BLAST programme, which are government initiatives to raise Arts Education in Ireland.
Caroline has held the position of Programme Manager and curator of Wexford Literary Festival and The Festival Manager of “Towers and Tales” International Storytelling Festival. She visits primary and secondary schools throughout Ireland and she also delivers workshops in libraries and has appeared at some of the best literary festivals in the country. Caroline regularly facilities creative writing classes and works as a creativity coach and mentor, helping creative people to live their dream creative life. ‘The Boy Who Slipped Through Time’ by Caroline Busher, paperback, published by Poolbeg Press Ltd, available at Easons Bookshops, Wexford, Enniscorthy and Gorey. ISBN: 9781781996959.
CLLR FIONNTAN Ó SÚILLEABHAIN with the designs for Cúirt Dhiarmada Uí Shúilleabháin housing project in the background. He claims the honour for the naming of the estate.
By Dan Walsh at Cúirt Dhiarmada Uí Shúilleabháin, Gorey
Last Thursday I was privileged as a member of the Press to be part of a delegation from Gorey Kilmuckridge District and Wexford County Council to visit housing developments in Gorey and I am happy to say that there is progress on many schemes and housing in Gorey is best described “as progressive and impressive and reflects a growing community where people want to live, rest, work and play.”
One site I visited was the 22-unit Cleary-Doyle development at Creagh, which is ultra-modern and representatives of the developers explained what was happening and brought us on a tour of the site, including some sneak views of the indoors of some of the homes and offered an insight into modern day housing construction and the way the industry is evolving.
However, I was astonished when I heard the name of the estate, expected to be ready for occupation in Quarter Two 2025; Cúirt Dhiarmada Uí Shúilleabháin,
It must be the longest address (29 letters) in any housing estate in… in the world? I pity the postal staff and the residents getting the spelling correct; not forgetting the property market writers when properties come on the sales market, so getting the Eircode correct is fundamental to deliveries!
Cllr Fionntán Ó Súileabháin is delighted; “I’m also delighted to have eventually succeeded in getting a piece of Gorey infrastructure named in his honour, almost 40 yrs since his untimely passing.”
Gorey-based Diarmaid Ó Súilleabháin was world-renowned writer who worked as a teacher in the local Christian Brothers School prior to his passing in 1985.
“I know the new estate at Wexford St on the site of the old CBS where he used to teach, has already been named but there was a suggestion previously by councillors that an estate could be named after Diarmaid Ó Súilleabháin,” concluded Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin.
Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Cllr Oliver Walsh, Cathaoirleach Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District, Eddie Taaffe Chief Executive Wexford County Council, Senator Malcolm Byrne, other Council staff and staff of Cleary & Doyle at Cúirt Dhiarmada Uí Shúilleabháin site at Creagh, Gorey, last Thursday. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
Maritime news in the headlines this week is disappointing in the South East as Stena Line has announced that from October 27th, 2024, it will be withdrawing Stena Vision from its Rosslare-Cherbourg shipping route.
In a statement the company states; “There will no job losses in the ports of Rosslare and Cherbourg. Every effort is being made to absorb our Stena Vision crew into the business and find other roles for them on other vessels.
“Stena Vision is not a suitable to ship to operate on the Rosslare – Cherbourg route all year round so an operational adjustment has been made.
“A three-day week service for freight and travel customers between Rosslare-Cherbourg will be provided by Stena Horizon offering a choice of up to six crossings per week.
“Stena Line will selectively deploy additional support vessels to the route during periods of peak demand from its freight and travel customers.
“This decision has been taken in line with the company’s business model of deploying vessels where they will deliver the most efficient use of company resources.
Stena Line is currently advising affected customers of its decision and of alternative arrangements.
WexfordLocal.com 