The death has occurred of Fr. James (Jimmy) Moynihan, a well-loved and highly respected priest of 36 years’ service, who sadly passed away at Enniscorthy Road, Ferns, on Wednesday. He was aged 60 years.
FR. JIMMY MOYNIHAN
Born in 1964, son of well-known musical parents, David and Patty Moynihan (née Redmond) he attended Ferns Boy’s National School, St. Peter’s College, Wexford, and St. Peter’s Seminary where he was ordained on June 5th,1988.
He had short appointments at St. Senan’s Parish, Enniscorthy, Chaplain at Wexford General Hospital, Our Lady’s Island and the Cathedral parish of Enniscorthy when he was appointed curate in Gorey on September 16th 1989.
In a statement on social media, St. Michael’s Parish, Gorey said; “During his time in Gorey, Fr. Moynihan won the admiration and esteem of all who met him, and was an immensely popular priest who is still fondly remembered by the parishioners of Gorey and Tara Hill. A faithful shepherd of the flock, and labourer in the Lord’s vineyard. May he rest in peace.”
Fr. Moynihan remained in Gorey for 12 years and left for Clonard in 2001 where he served as a curate for 9 years. He also ministered in Murrintown and served as parish priest of Raheen and Newbawn, where in September, 2023, he participated in a Farewell Mass in Newbawn Church in appreciation for the friendship and devotion he showed the parishioners.
FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of Fr Jimmy Moynihan, Enniscorthy Road, Ferns, Formerly parish priest of Newbawn and Raheen. Loving son of the late David and Patty. Brother of John, Tommy, David and Arthur. Deeply regretted by his loving brothers, aunts Mona and Breda, sisters-in-law Ann, Margaret, Eleanor and Dena, his good friends Fr Jim and May, Bishop Nash and his brother priests of the Diocese of Ferns, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends. MAY HIS GENTLE SOUL REST IN PEACE
Reposing at Kavanagh’s Funeral Home, Castlelands, Ferns today (Thursday) from 5 o’clock until 8 o’clock and Friday from 4 o’clock. Removal at 7 o’clock to St Aidan’s Church, Ferns, for reception prayers. Requiem Mass on Saturday at 11 o’clock with burial afterwards in St Aidan’s Cemetery, Ferns.
Caim, Enniscorthy jockey Jordan Gainford scored his third winner of the week at his local track in Wexford this evening when partnering Jazzy Matty (14/1) to success in the Traynors of Wexford Beginners Chase and the five-year-old gelding was winning for the first time since taking the Fred Winter Hurdle at the 2023 Cheltenham Festival.
Local jockey JORDAN GAINFORD is interviewed by Racing TV following his success on Jazzy Matty (14/1) in the Traynors of Wexford Beginners Chase at Wexford races this evening.
Jazzy Matty is trained by Cian Collins at Robinstown, Co. Meath, and the Collins/Gainford partnership were also a winning combination with Brandt in a chase at Roscommon on Tuesday. Gainford rode a double at Roscommon aboard Vaureal (25/1) for Kiltealy Stables Colin Bowe in the maiden hurdle.
Also on Tuesday at Roscommon the Willie and Patrick Mullins team took the INH Flat Race with Keep Up (4/1) and the champion team repeated the successful act at Wexford when Korinthia (9/4 fav.) scored by two and three quarters of a length.
Paul Nolan saddled third placed An Peann Dearg ridden by Conor Stone-Walsh in the opportunity handicap chase and Philip Rothwell, Tinahely, finished runner-up with Ricky Langford (Simon Torrens up) behind Jack Holiday (6/1) in the RacingTV.com handicap chase.
It was a good evening’s racing. A good attendance, the track was in top shape and plenty of runners on a value for money eight-race card.
Racing returns to Wexford Racecourse on Friday evening as part of the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann music festival. It is a seven-race card – six hurdle races and an INH Flat Race – with the first race off at 4.55pm. Plenty of parking on the course.
The indifferent summer weather has been delaying nature’s response, but the good days are never far away and the team behind the eagerly anticipated Kilmuckridge Sunflower Field is thrilled to announce its much-anticipated launch event next Friday, August 9th at 7.30pm.
This is a heartwarming community project aimed at raising funds for the Daffodil Nurses of Ireland through the Irish Cancer Society and other local community groups, As the sunflowers are about to burst open and create the most stunning view, they would like to invite everyone to visit, pick a sunflower, and donate to this worthy cause.
Over the past few months, members of various local community groups have come together to plant and nurture the sunflower crop, transforming a shared vision into a radiant field of hope. The dedication and collective effort of the community have been instrumental in bringing this project to life, demonstrating the village’s solidarity and support for those impacted by cancer. A heartfelt thanks is due to all the volunteers for their tremendous work in making this possible.
CLLR MARY FARRELL, Project Co-Ordinator Kilmuckridge Sunflower Field event. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
“Now that the sunflowers are almost in full bloom, the field will open to the public from Friday and we are inviting visitors to pick their own sunflowers. In exchange, visitors are encouraged to donate to support this worthy cause. To facilitate contributions, honesty boxes and donation buckets will be placed throughout the field, and there will also be an online option for those who prefer to donate digitally,” Cllr Mary Farrell told WexfordLocal.com.
“The Kilmuckridge Sunflower Field is more than just a beautiful display of nature,” said Cllr Farrell, Project Co-ordinator of the Kilmuckridge Sunflower Field project; “It symbolises the strength and resilience of our community, and it’s a beacon of light and hope for those who have been affected by cancer. We invite everyone to visit, enjoy the beauty of the sunflowers, and support the vital work of the Daffodil Nurses and the Irish Cancer Society.”
The community-driven project is expected to attract numerous visitors, each contributing to the cause and helping to make a difference in the lives of those battling cancer. The official launch is set for Friday, August 9th at 7.30pm, and everyone is encouraged to join in for this special event.
The field is located at the back of The Crosses Pub in the village of Kilmuckridge, or use Eircode Y25 V0Y1.
For more information about the Kilmuckridge Sunflower Field and to stay updated on the launch, please follow this Facebook page: Facebook.com/Kilmuckridge Memorial Hall or donate online: Please Support Kilmuckridge Sunflowers Fundraising Page.
JJ Slevin from Caim, Enniscorthy, is one of the jockeys in action at Wexford Races. Seen here being led into the winner’s enclosure following his success on Nurburging in last weeks’ Guinness Galway Hurdle at the famous Galway Races. (Pic; Horse Racing Ireland).
By Dan Walsh
The thrills and spills of jump racing and the rhythm of thundering hooves in a highly competitive environment will echo from Wexford Racecourse on Wednesday evening with the first of an eight-race card off at 4.45pm.
It is the first of two days racing at Wexford in conjunction with Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann (there is another evening fixture on Friday) where the world’s greatest music festival is in full flow, and such is the social attraction that music and sport complement each together in a special way.
Up-to-date information from Horse Racing Ireland tonight informs us that selective watering commenced today (Tuesday), describe the GOING as ‘good’ and the forecast is for “a mainly dry day with some passing showers (2mm approx.).”
There was a huge entry, hence an eight-race programme consisting of four steeplechases, three hurdle races and an INH Flat race that features an entry from the UK and Ireland champion stables of Willie Mullins, just up the road in Coolcullen, Co. Carlow.
The top jockeys will be in action and there will be a special attraction in the presence of Wexford jockey, JJ Slevin from Caim, Enniscorthy, who last Thursday won the featured Guinness Galway Hurdle on Nurburging for his cousin Joseph O’Brien from Carrick-on-Suir. Other jockeys in action include the reigning champion Jack Kennedy and the ever-popular Rachael Blackmore.
All the top trainers have runners including Gordon Elliott, Edward O’Grady, Wilie Mullins and Henry de Bromhead and several local trainers including Paul Nolan, Liz Doyle, Moses McCabe, Philip Rothwell and Sean Doyle.
It is going to be a great evening at Wexford races, a family atmosphere is anticipated and great atmosphere of sport, so if you can, come to Bettyville Park where racecourse parking is freely available.
Mayor of Wexford Cllr George Lawlor is pictured at the official opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Main Street, Wexford Town, with musicians from local Comhaltas groups, Ciara Banville, Eve Maloney, Lille Power, Catherine Roache, Shelly O’Grady, and Aoife Banville. (Pic; Andres Paveda).
By Dan Walsh at the Fleadh in Wexford
Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is in full swing on Day 3 (Tuesday) with a vibrant array of music, lectures, exhibitions, walking tours, award ceremonies, youth sessions, and more! Among a schedule jam-packed with diverse events and experiences, here are two highlights to look forward to this week:
Bardic Awards, Tuesday, 6th August – 7pm. This annual ceremony honours exceptional musicians and singers who have made unique contributions to Irish Traditional Music through their playing, singing, and dancing. This gala dinner with presentations includes performances by each of the recipients, all of whom are nationally and internationally renowned for their talent and commitment to traditional Irish culture. Catherine Martin, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport, and Media is scheduled to speak at the awards.
The Comhaltas International Showcase ConcertThursday, 8th August at 7pm. The Comhaltas International Showcase Concert will once again take centre stage at the Fleadh on Thursday. Following an electrifying concert last year in Mullingar, this year’s performance will take place at the National Opera House. The concert will feature guests from Australia, Britain, North America, Singapore, Dubai, and more, showcasing the best of Irish traditional music from Comhaltas branches across the globe. Not only will the audience enjoy great music, but Irish dancing superstar Michael Flatley is also set to attend and speak at the event.
The festival’s massive outdoor stage, the Wexford Credit Union Gig Rig, will also feature many of Ireland’s best trad musicians playing to huge crowds of music fans throughout the week, with notable performances by Music Generation, Tradify, and the Crannhill Céilí Band.
AUDIO ADDITION; At the Fleadh it’s all about the music!
Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and is hosted by the local Wexford Town Fleadh Executive Committee in association with Wexford County Council. The event is kindly supported by Wexford County Council, Wexford Credit Union and Fáilte Ireland. RTÉ and TG4 will once again act as broadcast and live broadcasting partners, respectively.
For a full rundown of all the exciting events happening this week in Wexford for Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, click here.
Three occupants of a house in the Michael Street area of New Ross, two males (20’s) and a woman (40’s) were taken to University Hospital Waterford for treatment following a house fire. Their conditions are described as “serious but stable.”
Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene in New Ross, during the early hours of Sunday morning.
Gardaí arrived at the scene at approximately 12.50am. The blaze was later brought under control by local fire services.
The scene was preserved since early this morning, and an examination took place.
Gardaí are currently appealing for witnesses, anyone with video footage, or anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the investigation team.
Uachtarán Michael D. Higgins and his wife, Sabina, were special guests at the opening of Fleadh Cheroil na hÉireann on the Gig Rig on Wexford Quay this afternoon. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh at the opening ceremony of Fleadh 2024 in Wexford
Wexford is set to welcome an estimated 500,000 music lovers and 15,000 musicians to the welcoming South-East over the next 11 days and today (Sunday), President Michael D. Higgins opened the traditional music celebration of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 in Wexford town from the Wexford Credit Union Gig Rig on Wexford Quay.
The ceremony launched a week-long celebration of Irish music, dance, song, storytelling, and comhrá Gaeilge that will run from August 4th-11th inclusive, organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and hosted by the local Wexford Town Fleadh Executive Committee in association with Wexford County Council.
President Higgins and Ms. Sabina Higgins were warmly welcomed by the Fleadh Executive Committee and Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, where he gave an address celebrating Wexford Town’s inaugural year hosting the world’s largest traditional music festival. He remarked that Wexford is known globally for its warm welcomes and unforgettable cultural experiences.
Memebers of the Ceoltóirí na Sláine pictured at the Official Opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford Town. today. (Pic; Andres Paveda).
“The Fleadh Cheoil holds a special place in the hearts of the Irish people, both at home and abroad. It is such a significant and special celebratory event in Ireland’s cultural calendar, the largest of its kind in the world, dedicated to celebrating our musical traditions, a time when we come together and welcome so many visitors from around the world who have come to celebrate our Irish music, song, dance and language, that vibrant tapestry of traditional Irish culture that has been woven over centuries,” said President Higgins.
Cathaoirleach of the Fleadh Executive Committee, Eddie Taaffe, said; “We’re delighted to welcome Comhaltas Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann to Wexford town. A tremendous amount of preparation, diligence and care has gone into creating what is set to be one of the biggest and best Fleadhs ever. We were honoured to host President Michael D. Higgins, who opened the event today at the Gig Rig. We look forward to welcoming over 500,000 visitors to the sunny South East over the next week. We know they will receive a warm welcome and enjoy all our great county has to offer.”
CEO of Fáilte Ireland Paul Kelly told the large attendance; “Fáilte Ireland and Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann have a long history together and we’re so pleased to support this year’s festival in Wexford. Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann has developed a spectacular programme which celebrates our traditional music and culture in new and exciting ways that will give visitors the opportunity to experience the very best of what Wexford and Ireland’s Ancient East have to offer. Festivals are crucial to the tourism sector, and with an expected 500,000 domestic and international visitors this year, Fleadh Cheoil will significantly boost the local economy in the Wexford region.”
Other speakers from the stage included Cllr George Lawlor, Mayor of Wexford, Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Ms. Attracta Ni Bhrádaigh, Uachtarán Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, An t-Uas. Labhrás Ó Murchú, Ard-Stiúrthóir Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Mr. Joss O’Connor, Wexford Credit Union and Mr. Eddie Taaffe, Chairman of Fleadh Cheoil 2024 and Chief Executive of Wexford County Council. Mr. Pat Flanagan, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann was master of ceremonies.
An Ecumenical Blessing was by performed by Bishop Ger Nash, Very Rev. Billy Swan, Administrator, Wexford Parish and The Reverend Canon Nicola Halford, Rector Enniscorthy Union of Parishes.
AUDIO ADDITION; Highlights from today’s opening of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 on Wexford Quay. Voices are MC Pat Flanagan and journalist/broadcaster Dan Walsh.
This year’s theme, ‘A Fleadh for All’, truly embodies the festival’s spirit of inclusivity and diversity. It’s a celebration that warmly welcomes everyone, from seasoned attendees to first-time visitors. The Fleadh will host a significant international audience and feature a diverse lineup of 15,000 musicians, dancers, singers and storytellers from various communities across Ireland, all brought together by their love of traditional Irish music, dance and culture.
Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach Wexford County Council and Mayor of Wexford George Lawlor are pictured welcoming the President Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina who attended the Opening Ceremony of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford Town. Pic; Andres Paveda).
With an exciting and varied programme that caters to all tastes, there’s something for everyone at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024. Visitors to the town can experience the Fleadh’s acclaimed music and dance competitions, see performances from international and local acts, attend workshops and lectures, learn about the history, and enjoy all Wexford Town has to offer through guided tours. Wexford Town, nestled in Ireland’s Ancient East, provides more than just a picturesque backdrop for the celebrations. Attendees are encouraged to explore the wider county, with its sprawling coastline, bustling towns, and rich history.
The Irish diaspora stretches to 80 million people worldwide. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the largest event of its kind, serves as a melting pot of culture, of people coming together to celebrate traditional music and Irish heritage from across the world.
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is kindly supported by Wexford County Council, Wexford Credit Union and Fáilte Ireland. RTÉ and TG4 will once again act as broadcast and live broadcasting partners, respectively.
For more information and to stay updated on Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024, visit https://fleadhcheoil.ie/
Wexford town is ready to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann for the first time in its history. (Pic; WexfordLocal.com)
By Dan Walsh in Wexford
Uachtarán na hÉireann, Michael D. Higgins will be in Wexford town on Sunday afternoon where he will officially launch Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2024 from the impressive Wexford Credit Union stage on Wexford Quay and get the festivities under way for a week-long celebration of Irish music, dance, song, storytelling and comhrá Gaeilge that will run until August 11th and will attract thousands of visitors to Co. Wexford.
Uachtarán Higgins and Ms. Sabina Higgins will arrive on stage at 4pm where an Ecumenical Blessing will be performed by Bishop Ger Nash, Very Rev. Billy Swan, Wexford town, and The Reverend Canon Nicola Halford, Rector Enniscorthy Union of Parishes. The opening musical presentation features the Blackwater Ceilí Band, 2018 All-Ireland champions from Clogher Valley, Co. Tyrone.
PRESIDENT MICHAEL D. HIGGINS will launch Feadh 2024 on Wexford Quay today (Sunday).
Speakers will include Mr. Paul Kelly, Chief Executive of Fáilte Ireland, Cllr George Lawlor, Mayor of Wexford, Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Ms. Attracta Ni Bhrádaigh, Uachtarán Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, An t-Uas. Labhrás Ó Murchú, Ard-Stiúrthóir Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Mr. Joss O’Connor, Wexford Credit Union and Mr. Eddie Taaffe, Chairman of Fleadh Cheoil 2024 and Chief Executive of Wexford County Council.
Mr. Pat Flanagan, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann will be master of ceremonies and will open proceedings at 3pm with the Opening Showcase Concert by Ceoltóirí na Sláine, a traditional music orchestra, formed in August 2023 by Barbara Walsh and Shelly O’Grady with 80 Wexford teenage musicians to celebrate Wexford’s winning bid to be host of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in 2024 and 2025.
Phil Murphy, Anne Mercipill, George O’Connor, Betty Connors, John Roche, Grace Murphy, Scott O’Reilly and Corra O’Donovan pictured at the launch of this year’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann. (Pic; Andres Poveda).
There will be a Marching Band parade on Wexford Quay escorted by Wexford Pikemen and Women, commemorating 1798, Wexford’s Buí Bolg, members of New Ross & District Pipe Band, New Ross FCA Pipe Band, Gorey Pipe Band, Ballingeary, Cork, Arklow Pipe Band, Cullen (Cork), De la Salle Scout Pipe Band (Waterford), St. Joseph’s (Clondalkin) and individual pipers and drummers from Kilkenny, Carlow, Wicklow, Kerry and Limerick. As well as the native Irish participation in the massed band section, the organisers are delighted to be joined by pipers from other nations including Eamon Gaffney from the Queensland Irish Pipe Band, Monica Gomez from Uruguay, Etienne Baranger from France, and Fergus MacLeod from Scotland. Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann is organised by Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann and hosted by the local Wexford Town Fleadh Executive Committee in association with Wexford County Council.
When I think of Fleadh Cheoil I think of my good friend over a long number of years, the legendary Paddy Berry, a traditional Irish singer born and raised in Duncormick and now living at Drinagh on the outskirts of Wexford town.
Paddy attended his first Fleadh in Swinford in 1969 and hasn’t missed one since and naturally, having spearheaded the Fleadh (with Niall Wall) the last time it came to Wexford in 1999 and 2000, he is enthusiastic about the big event in Wexford town.
He is not just a well-known performer of Wexford ballads but is also a songwriter and collector of folklore and songs over many decades. He has a number of published collections bearing his name Paddy Berry and many of them may be available during this week’s Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Wexford town. Try Red Books at St. Peter’s Square.
AUDIO ADDITION from WexfordLocal.com. Dan Walsh and Paddy Berry in conversation.
GOREY MARKET HOUSE. Funding granted for refurbishment. (File Pic; WexfordLocal.com).
By Dan Walsh
Wexford County Council is to benefit from funding of €7 million under THRIVE – Strand 2, the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme, awarded under Ireland’s European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Programmes for the renovation, restoration and reuse of the Gorey Market House with the aim of revitalising and enhancing Gorey town centre.
This funding will be utilised to regenerate the oldest building in Gorey – “Gorey Market House”, which is associated with the foundation of Gorey Town in line with the Town Centre First approach. This cherished building was identified for regeneration and following extensive engagement with a diverse group of stakeholders and citizens, a co-created design for the regeneration of the building was developed.
Cllr. Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council was delighted as Chair of the Market House multi-disciplinary team to secure this investment which with matching funding from the Council, will see a total of €9 million invested in the heart of Gorey. He went on to outline the works which will include “co-created design for Gorey Market House will be converted into a new community and cultural hub by opening three of the arches on Main Street, regenerating the existing building, an extension to facilitate accessibility to upper floors and the creation of new café to the rear. By opening the arches, it will provide access to the rear of the building creating a new market plaza for Gorey which will be utilised for markets, concerts and events.
Cathaoirleach of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District, Cllr. Oliver Walsh stated this was one of the most significant investment projects secured by Wexford County Council to date and it would be an important flagship project for Gorey cementing its reputation as a key destination for business, retail and the arts for both local communities and visitors with an icon public realm development of the most historic building in Gorey.
Cllr Walsh added; “In addition to the recently completed Gorey Town Park, the Gorey Market House will complement future projects including the planned works for Esmonde Street and the St Walerans development for the town and he congratulated all involved in working collaboratively together for the delivery of the shared vision for Gorey.”
The regenerated Gorey Market House will be aligned to the values and principles of the New European Bauhaus and will be fully accessible, inclusive, sustainable and beautiful and will foster a sense of pride
Liz Hore, Director of Services thanked the elected members of Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District for their support as the Gorey Market House was their number one priority project and for the people of North Wexford who were important partners in the project. “We placed great emphasis on community engagement to ensure the people of Gorey had a voice and we saw first-hand how much the Gorey Market House is loved. The THRIVE grant facilitates Wexford County Council as custodians of the Market House to preserve its past and revitalise the building by providing a transformational impact for its future.”
She paid tribute to Gorey Community Development group which is an umbrella organisation for a few groups in the area and its representatives. In addition, ODKM architects did a superb job in designing a truly innovative public realm space for the Gorey Market House, Playcity assisted with the citizen engagement, Dr. Yvonne Byrne and the internal multi-disciplinary team of Planning, Climate Action, Special projects capital development, Arts, Economic who all collaborated to get a top-class submission which has been recognised and supported by the Regional Assembly and.
Ms. Hore concluded; “The Department with the maximum grant award of €7 million. Wexford County Council will now focus on the delivery of the project which the people of North Wexford are looking forward to and which will be showcased at international level.”
WexfordLocal.com 