Popular North Wexford-based Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabhain has been chosen at a Sinn Féin Selection Convention for the newly created 3-seat constituency of North Wexford and South Wicklow held in the Arklow Bay Hotel to contest the forthcoming General Election.
CLLR FIONNTÁN Ó SÚILLEABHÁIN Sinn Féin candidate in the next General Election.
A member of the teaching profession, first elected in 2014 and re-elected for a third term at last May’s Local Elections for the Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District, and Leas-Cathaoirleach for the 2023-’24 term, Cllr Ó Súilleabháin tonight told WexfordLocal.com; “I am honoured to have been selected by party members to contest the newly created constituency in the forthcoming General Election.
“I live right in the epicentre of this new constituency, which includes Gorey, Arklow and many villages and rural hinterlands from Bunclody right up to Rathdrum,” stated Cllr Ó Súileabhain, who added; “Over the past year I’ve been strongly encouraged by many people – both Sinn Féin supporters and other independent-minded people, campaigners, visionaries and community activists to run to be a TD to represent our local area.”
He continued; “Many want to see change, a different direction and improvements in so many sectors. We have solutions to tackle the crises in housing and in many other areas. We need to give our young people hope ‘dóchas’ and keep them living here in Ireland.
“I am appealing to the people of North Wexford and South Wicklow – whatever your background – to support our campaign to have a locally-based TD for this area who will fight for the interests of ordinary working people, our youth and our local communities, both rural and urban,” concluded Cllr Ó Súilleabháin.
FESTY EBOSELE…called into the Republic of Ireland squad against Greece
Enniscorthy-born Festy Ebosele who played his early games locally with Moyne Rangers has been called into the Republic of Ireland squad to play Greece on Tuesday.
A Football Association of Ireland statement this evening said; “Festy Ebosele comes into the squad for Tuesday’s UEFA Nations League fixture against Greece at the Aviva Stadium.”
Ebosele, currently on loan at Watford from Udinese, has three caps already and is a former Under-21 international.
Pictured; Annette Rowsome, Senior Enterprise Development Officer Local Enterprise Office Wexford); Janet Wallace, Deputy Principal Creagh College; Cllr. Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of WexfordCounty Council; Matt Furlong, Creagh College Student; Adam Connelly, Creagh College Student; Emer Kirwan, Student Enterprise Programme Co-ordinator); Bridget O’Connor, Teacher and Paul Glynn, Principal Creagh College, Gorey.
By Dan Walsh
Second-level schools across County Wexford are being called to participate in this year’s Student Enterprise Programme (SEP), a nationwide initiative that will engage over 28,000 students in setting up and running their own mini-enterprises throughout the academic year.
The Student Enterprise Programme has been a cornerstone of the secondary school experience in County Wexford for over two decades. It has inspired countless students to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys, with many continuing to make significant contributions to the business world long after leaving school.
County Wexford has a proud history of success in the programme. Most notably, Creagh College in Gorey saw students Matt Furlong and Adam Connolly, under the guidance of their teacher Edel Peters, win the National Sustainability Award in the Senior Category for the academic year 2022/2023. Their innovative product, Eco Fire, offers an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuels such as coal, peat, and firewood.
Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Pip Breen, who officially launched this year’s programme, emphasised its significance and said; “The Student Enterprise Programme is vital to the economy and community of Wexford. It empowers young people, encourages innovation, and cultivates a culture of entrepreneurship that benefits everyone in the county. By supporting our students today, we are investing in the future leaders and innovators of tomorrow.”
“This is a fantastic initiative, and we encourage all students in the county to participate in the programme for the upcoming academic year,” said Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development.
The SEP, an initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices, is the largest enterprise programme for second-level students in Ireland. Students from 1st to 6th year can enter in Junior, Intermediate, and Senior categories.
For the 2024/2025 school year, a new range of online resources, including blogs and comprehensive materials for both students and teachers, is available at http://www.StudentEnterprise.ie.
Enniscorthy & Monart Union of Parishes Flower Festival is taking place in St. Mary’s Church, Church Street, Enniscorthy this weekend – Friday to Sunday, September 13th-15th– and the organisers are looking forward to welcoming visitors
The flower festival is being run in conjunction with Co. Wexford Garden and Flower Club, who are Gold Medal Winners at Bloom, 2023 and 2024, and are working extremely hard planning over fifty beautiful floral arrangements to adorn the church.
Very Reverend Canon Nicola Halford, Rector Enniscorthy & Monart Union of Parishes said; “All are welcome to join us for this magnificent display of flowers and creativity. Don’t miss out!” (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
Very Reverend Canon Nicola Halford told WexfordLocal.com; “We are excited to showcase our wonderful church and the talent and creativity of the flower arrangers. The theme of our flower festival is ‘Harvest – all things bright and beautiful’ and it will be a celebration of community and thanksgiving for all of God’s goodness to us.”
Tickets to the festival are available on the door at St. Mary’s Church and the cost is €10 per person which includes a festival programme and refreshments in the Church Institute, following your visit to the church. There will also be an opportunity to purchase homemade produce and plants in the Church Institute.
The festival will conclude on Sunday at 6pm with an Ecumenical Harvest Thanksgiving Service. The service will be led by clergy and church leaders from the town and is being organised in conjunction with the IFA. The preacher will be Bishop Ger Nash.
Local Enterprise Office Wexford (LEO) has announced its new autumn training and events programme for 2024. This comprehensive programme offers a blend of online and in-person training sessions, designed to equip participants with the skills needed to navigate the ever-changing economic landscape.
Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr. Pip Breen, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming programme, stating; “The training sessions offered by the Local Enterprise Office are designed to empower entrepreneurs with practical skills and knowledge, enabling them to tackle challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve their business goals. Investing in the growth and development of our small businesses is crucial for the success of our local economy.”
At the launch of the LEO Wexford autumn training programme were; Jill Kelleher, Business Advisor, Local Enterprise Office Wexford, Cllr. Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council and Annette Rowsome, Senior Enterprise Development Officer, Local Enterprise Office Wexford.
Breege Cosgrave, Head of Enterprise and Economic Development at Wexford County Council, emphasised the importance of these initiatives. “”Local Enterprise Office Wexford is committed to providing supports to local businesses and is conscious that for a business to succeed, it is essential to support them by enhancing their skills, competencies, and knowledge. The launch of the autumn training and events schedule is designed to support small business owners and entrepreneurs based in County Wexford,” she said.
Breege Cosgrave encourages all local entrepreneurs and those considering starting a business to engage with the Local Enterprise Office, stating; “If you are in business or thinking of starting one, you should contact the Local Enterprise Office to see how we can help.”
The programme features a diverse range of courses tailored to meet the needs of businesses at various stages of their journey. From the Start Your Own Business Programme and Management Development Programme to specialised training such as Introduction to Google Analytics (GA4), GDPR and AI, and clinics in areas like Retail, Financial, and Business Advisory, there is something for everyone.
In addition to these courses, LEO Wexford will host networking events, including National Women’s Enterprise Day and the much-anticipated Digital 25 event which will be held at the Google Headquarters.
The autumn training and events programme schedule for 2024 is now available. Small business owners and entrepreneurs are encouraged to explore the range of offerings and take advantage of the resources provided by LEO Wexford to enhance their skills and drive their businesses forward.
For more information on the programme and how to register, please visit the Local Enterprise Office Wexford website or contact their office directly. Email: info@leo.wexford.ie Phone: 053 9196020 and Website: www.localenterprise.ie/Wexford
Pictured at the signing of the Ramsfort Park dwellings contract; (Back Row L-R) , Shay Howell, Acting Director of Service Special Projects, Leonard Daly, Commercial Director Mythen Construction Ltd, Keith Mythen, Chartered Contracts Manager, Mythen Construction Ltd. Carolyne Godkin, Director of Service Housing.(Front Row L-R); Cllr. Jim Codd, Chairperson Housing SPC, Cllr. Pip Breen Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council, Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive Wexford County Council, Billy Mythen Managing Director Mythen Construction Ltd and Cllr. Oliver Walsh, Cathaoirleach Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District. (Pic; Wexford County Council).
By Dan Walsh
Wexford County Council has signed contracts with Mythen Construction Ltd for the delivery of the ambitious 20 Affordable Homes Scheme at Ramsfort Park, Gorey.
Ramsfort Park (Radharc na Beannóige), will be the first affordable housing scheme for Co. Wexford with funding secured to develop this pilot project via the Affordable Housing Fund under the Governments ‘Housing for All’ Programme and will make homes available at a reduced price for buyers who are seeking to purchase a newly built home but need to bridge the gap between their mortgage and deposit to cover the full price of the home.
The development will consist of a total of twenty homes, available for sale via Wexford County Council’s ‘Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme,’ providing A rated dwellings which are designed to meet the needs of eligible families and individuals in the Gorey area.
Chief Executive, Eddie Taaffe stated; “We look forward to working with the Mythen Construction team to deliver this project. Wexford County Council is dedicated to working with delivery partners to enhance housing availability through innovative projects. Ramsfort Park underscores our commitment to delivering affordable solutions that meet the needs of today’s families.”
Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr. Pip Breen welcomed the contract signing, saying “I am very pleased to see this project moving forward, this development will see 20 much-needed affordable homes provided in Gorey for first time buyers and fresh start applicants”. Construction is set to commence in the coming weeks and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
By Dan Walsh at special meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council
There was a sensational scenario to a special meeting of Enniscorthy Municipal District Council at the Council Chamber in the Presentation Centre today when all six sitting members of the Council failed to support the proposed planning application for Part VIII of the Civic Spine, Main Street-Market Square Castle Hill package of the Enniscorthy Town Centre First scheme which is worth €10 million in URDF (Urban Regeneration and Development Fund) funding.
The meeting commenced with an introduction by David Whitty, Executive Engineer with responsibility for Special Projects at Wexford County Council who explained that the Town Centre First policy aims to create town centres that function as viable, vibrant and attractive locations for people to live, work and visit, while also functioning as the service, social, cultural and recreational hub for the local community.
Mr Whitty said the plan was consistent with local and national policy and it was “a consultation led” plan. He outlined improvements outside St. Mary’s Church, at Castle Street and Wafer Street, and said the net reduction of parking spaces was 43.
Cathaoirleach Cllr Aidan Browne, who told the meeting “There will not be a vote today” led the repetitive list of objections. “I’m disappointed that Templeshannon is not on the table. This is not good enough. It must be a full package,” he declared.
Cllr Cathal Byrne wanted to see a thriving town to stop shoppers from going to Wexford or Gorey but felt this needed “all the plan together” and he felt there was not enough in it to revitalise Market Square. He felt there were ‘for’ and ‘against’ but believed that this plan wasn’t on the table when Part VIII came through and he would like to see the old Murphy-Flood’s site included in the plan.
CLLR AIDAN BROWNE, Cathaoirleach Enniscorthy Municipal District Council
Cllr Barbara-Anne Murphy was also ‘disappointed’ with the €10 million and wanted to “go with the biggest possible”. She wanted a minimum of €20 million be applied for and wanted “full control” when it came to spending it!”
Cllr Jackser Owens was also ‘disappointed’ and predicted a loss of business and a loss of jobs. “I can’t support this plan and we don’t want a library; we have one already”, said Cllr Owens, who added; “I will be voting ‘NO’ and I’m disgusted that Templeshannon is not on the plan.”
Cllr Pat Kehoe didn’t support the application either. He cited pressure from the business people in Market Square and had concerns about parking and the traffic flow.
Cllr John O’Rourke was critical of some who didn’t attend the public meetings – he alleged that only five businesses were represented at some of them – and said he would not support the plan as it is unless they come up with a parking plan. “The current plan on its own is not acceptable. We must be brave,” concluded Cllr O’Rourke.
Senior Planner at Wexford County Council, Diarmuid Houston told the meeting that “the town centre would be a calmer place for everyone” and reminded the members that “43 car parking spaces could be replaced by one bus!”
Mr Houston added that the Part VIII application was “the first stage, the first step”. The application for URDF funding of €10 million was prioritised and is due to go before a full meeting of Wexford County Council next Monday. “The planning permission dies on Tuesday, and we have to start all over again!” concluded Mr Houston.
Director of Services, Carolyne Godkin, not for the first time, reminded the members of the need for investment in the town centre and investment was needed in Templeshannon. “We should be brave and take what is in front of us. The town centre is being used as “a rat run”. It is a small part of the Town First project and regeneration brings economic benefit,” added Ms. Godkin.
Other members of the planning team present at the meeting attempted to persuade the members to change their minds and support the application – which they pointed out is one of three packages (see below), but to no avail and it looks like there will be no support for the Enniscorthy Town First Plan (Part VIII application) when it appears on Monday’s agenda (amendments are acceptable), the funding will go elsewhere and the project will fall behind for many years to come.
PACKAGE ONE; Civic Spine, Main Street-Market Square Castle Hill. This is an integrated regeneration package involving different stakeholders in partnership to deliver redevelopment, refurbishment, and improvement of urban space. This package will be the critical early catalyst to the rejuvenation of the function, fabric and image of the Town Centre.
PACKAGE TWO; The Castle Heritage Quarter. The Quarter will provide a focal point for the rich heritage of the Town. It will draw on the diversity of urban heritage in this important urban block. Including the Castle, the Athenaeum and the rich fabric of street buildings. The Quarter will be the focal attraction and orientation space for tourism in Enniscorthy.
PACKAGE THREE; Templeshannon Hub and Link. This package aims to intervene decisively to counter the worrying decline of the heart of Templeshannon, and its disconnection from the Town Centre. It aims to be a catalyst in the restoration of vitality and vibrancy through redevelopment, refurbishment and a radical improvement of its public spaces. It will explore the potential to redevelop a substantial leisure and recreation hub to complement the existing Waterfront Pool and Leisure Centre.
Last year’s champion, Donut the English Mastiff from Mountrath, Laois, captured hearts nationwide. Her owner, Jacinta Parkinson, fondly recalls the experience: “Winning Puppy of the Year was an unforgettable experience for Donut and me,” says Jacinta.” (Pic; Petmania)
By Dan Walsh
Ireland’s most adorable pups are invited to compete for the coveted title of Petmania’s Puppy of the Year 2024, a celebration of the nation’s much-loved pets, culminating in a grand, ‘furry’ finale ceremony.
Now in its 9th year, this popular annual competition has grown in popularity, with last year’s event attracting a record-breaking 1,600 entries from proud pet parents across Ireland.
Puppies up to 12 months old can enter and entries are open from September 2nd to 22nd. Every entrant receives a free puppy pack, courtesy of BETA. The grand prize, valued at €1,500, includes 12 month’s grooming at Petmania Grooming Studios, a year’s supply of Beta dog food, a two-night dog-friendly hotel stay from Blue Book, a professional photoshoot, and a brand ambassador contract.
The winning pup will be selected based on a combination of their personality, coat and appearance, obedience, and any special talents. In the initial rounds, communities and customers will vote for their favourite puppy to advance to the final stages.
Speaking at the launch of this year’s Puppy of the Yearcompetition, Petmania’s spokesperson Emily Miller, says; “This competition goes beyond just winning; it’s a heartwarming celebration of the unconditional love and companionship dogs bring to our lives. It’s also a chance for Petmania to unite our customers and communities in a fun, light-hearted event that offers a break from the everyday. We’re excited for this year’s competition and wish all participants the very best!”
Petmania has 16 stores across Ireland – including Clonard Retail Park, Wexford town – with over 260 employees and the largest dog grooming business in the country. For more information about Petmania and to enter the Puppy of the Year competition, visit www.petmania.ie/poty.
Once owned by the international singer/songwriter Elton John and located not far from Greater London in Hertfordshire, Watford FC have announced the signing of Republic of Ireland international Festy Ebosele on a season-long loan from Italian side Udinese and the news is celebrated amongst soccer enthusiasts in Co. Wexford.
FESTY EBOSELE, the Enniscorthy-born international football star.
Ebosele, who turned 22 last month, began his early football journey in his hometown of Enniscorthy, where he played for local club Moyne Rangers before moving to Bray Wanderers.
At 16, he joined Derby County, where his promising performances eventually led to a transfer to Udinese.
He featured in 38 matches for Derby in the Sky Bet Championship, scoring two goals during the 2021/22 season. In the summer of 2022, he moved to Serie A with Udinese, where he played 36 times over two seasons.
On the international stage, Ebosele has represented the Republic of Ireland at various youth levels, including Under-16, Under-17, Under-19, and Under-21. He earned his first senior cap in September 2023 against France and has since made two more appearances for his country.
The new late night 21.25hrs train service from Wexford to Gorey has been welcomed by South East on Track, who say “this connection provides public transport within Wexford later in the evening, while also facilitating rail travel to Dublin and Wicklow on the Gorey-Connolly service launched last year.
The new service is testament to the public engagement from Wexford in recent Iarnród Éireann consultations, which have seen services increased.
Iarnród Éireann CEO Jim Meade met with South East on Track late last year and assured them that the late night service was being looked at, and that there will be further increases in service when more staff come onboard. It’s great to see the first part of his pledge delivered this week. As well as providing a commuter option for those working later in and around Wexford Town or Enniscorthy, this service can also serve the hospitality sector in both towns.
South East on Track told WexfordLocal.com; “The 21:25 departure is the perfect chance to take in a meal or an evening out in the town and leave the car at home. We hope that local businesses will make their patrons aware of this new service. Further, the new timetable now provides for a slightly later last departure from Rosslare Europort in the evening at 17:55.
This allows for those arriving on Stena Line’s 17:30 arrival at the port to take the train. Stena Line already offers Sail and Rail via Rosslare and we are calling on them and Iarnród Éireann to work together to promote and facilitate the growing numbers of tourists who wish to access the region without flying.”
During Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024, increased rail services between Dublin/Arklow and Wexford facilitated thousands of patrons. We are calling on the Fleadh 2025 organisation team and Iarnród Éireann to facilitate visitors from the UK and further afield via rail and ferry by facilitating some form of rail connection from Rosslare to a point south of the quays in Wexford Town.
WexfordLocal.com 