Latest news with #BridínMurphy
Irish Independent
07-08-2025
- Politics
- Irish Independent
Wexford councillors to receive mandatory training on domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence – ‘this is a pervasive issue in our county'
County councillors in Wexford are to receive mandatory annual training on domestic, sexual, and gender-based violence (DSGBV) after a motion submitted by Labour's Vicky Barron and Fine Gael's Bridín Murphy was passed in County Hall. The motion called for training which will 'equip councillors with the knowledge and guidance necessary to respond appropriately and sensitively to constituents disclosing experiences of DSGBV, and to effectively advocate on their behalf within the limits of their role.' It is proposed that the training be delivered annually as part of a scheduled council meeting, in the form of an interactive question and answer session facilitated 'by a recognised expert in the field'. "By adopting this motion, Wexford County Council will demonstrate leadership in promoting a trauma-informed, survivor-centred approach to public service and strengthen our commitment to supporting victims of DSGBV in our communities,' the motion concluded. Explaining why they had brought the motion to the meeting, Councillor Barron said it was to acknowledge an issue which is 'pervasive in our county'. 'For instance, there are major problems in tenancy law, it discriminates directly against victims of domestic violence, and we need to find bespoke solutions on how we deal with this as councillors,' she added. 'Survivors of DSGBV need to be given the dignity they deserve. All councillors should take a standalone training course which will bring in people who are experts in the area to advise us on how we can support victims, and how we can advocate for them on a local and national level.' The motion received the full support of the council and, as a result, mandatory training on DSGBV will be introduced for all elected members.
Irish Independent
20-06-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
New Ross unveils new age friendly car parking spaces – ‘It makes the town more accessible and welcoming'
Taking place in New Ross, the spaces were officially launched this week by Cllr Bridín Murphy, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District, in the presence of district members and council officials. These dedicated parking spaces are designed to promote inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring that older residents and those with mobility challenges can easily access the town's amenities and services. The initiative reflects the town's ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive community where everyone can participate fully in town life. Speaking at the unveiling, New Ross District Manager, Alan Fitzhenry, said: 'We are thrilled to introduce these age friendly parking spaces, which help in making New Ross a more accessible and welcoming place for all. Initiatives like this demonstrate our dedication to supporting residents of all ages and abilities, and we are proud to champion inclusivity in our community. "Thanks to Niamh Bolger, the age friendly programme manager with Wexford County Council, for her support on this project and to the area engineer, David Murphy, for completing the works.' Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District Council, Cllr Bridín Murphy said: 'It is with great pleasure that I unveil these new age friendly parking spaces in New Ross town today, as my last official task as Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District. These spaces, strategically located to provide easier access to essential services and amenities, are a small but meaningful step towards enhancing the quality of life for everyone in the district. "I want to thank Niamh Bolger, age friendly officer with Wexford County Council, for funding this initiative, as well as the district engineer, David Murphy, for installing the spaces. I encourage all motorists to respect these courtesy spaces, together we can create a more inclusive New Ross that truly caters to the needs of all residents.' A Wexford County Council spokesperson added: 'The new spaces are part of a broader effort by the district to enhance accessibility in the town, aligning with the national Age-Friendly Ireland Programme. New Ross Municipal District is committed to continuing such initiatives to ensure New Ross remains a vibrant, inclusive place to live, work, and visit.'
Irish Independent
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
‘Busking on the Beach' to add new dimension to popular Wexford music festival
On Sunday, July 20, sound waves of live music will be heard from the strand as the festival expands in its celebration of music from around the world. Talented guitarists from across Ireland and beyond, including musicians from Savannah, Georgia, will descend upon Duncannon Strand, bringing a wide range of genres to this unique setting beneath the historic Duncannon Fort. The beach will come alive at 2.30 p.m. with guitar music spanning classical, blues, bluegrass, traditional, pop, rock, and country, performed at three designated locations: Roche's Green, the Bass Rock, and near the beach apartments. Adding to the lively atmosphere, the Duncannon Beach Market will offer handcrafted gifts, and visitors can enjoy the hospitality of the local pubs, cafes, and shop. Cathaoirleach Cllr. Bridín Murphy, Chair of the New Ross Guitar Festival, shared her support for the beach to be used as one of the festival locations. She said: 'I'm delighted with this new initiative for the guitar festival, continuing our policy of featuring performances around the towns and villages of the New Ross District.' Meanhwhile, Niall O'Muilleoir of echoed the sentiments of the Cathaoirleach and stated that the organisation is 'excited to be hosting the first-ever fringe event of the New Ross Guitar Festival with busking on our golden beach next to historic Duncannon Fort.' 'It's the perfect setting for the enjoyment of our community and visitors alike,' he added. The collaboration and new location highlights Duncannon as a perfect setting for the New Ross Guitar Festival's first-ever busking event. Just a scenic 25-minute drive from New Ross, this charming village offers breath-taking views of the Waterford Estuary and a tranquil mile-long beach. The historic backdrop of Duncannon Fort, dating back to the 16th century, adds a rich cultural atmosphere to the occasion, making it an ideal spot for this lively celebration of music and community. As the festival extends its spirit to Duncannon, hopes are high for fine weather to complement this lively outdoor event. The backdrop of the Waterford Estuary, with its wide sands, grassy dunes, and the imposing silhouette of Duncannon Fort, promises a stunning setting for this celebration of music and community. The initiative, supported and sponsored by Wexford County Council, is still open to guitarists who are interested in joining the rota. They are invited to contact Festival Artistic Director, David Creevy at Admission is free, and all are welcome. For more information about the full festival program and ticketing details, visit
Irish Independent
08-05-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Transformative Wexford project will help showcase New Ross in all its glory
The Brennan's Lane project began with detailed planning, design, and community consultation. Works commenced in 2024, with the laneway undergoing a comprehensive refurbishment to enhance safety, accessibility, and vibrancy. The project, executed by contractor MJS Civil Engineering with design and construction management from consultants Avanti Architects, has turned Brennan's Lane into a welcoming space that celebrates New Ross' heritage and supports local businesses and residents. Funded by a €500,000 grant from the Department of Rural and Community Development through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Brennan's Lane refurbishment project was further supported by match funding from Wexford County Council, with the backing of the elected members, bringing the total investment to €891,000. The official opening was performed by Minister Dara Calleary, joined by Councillor Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Councillor Bridín Murphy, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District, Elected Members of Wexford County Council, Oireachtas members from Wexford, and invited guests. The event highlighted the collaborative efforts that have brought this vision to life. Speaking about the Brennan's Lane project, Minister Calleary said: 'I would like to commend the of members of Wexford County Council, both official and elected members, for their dedication in bringing this important project to completion. Significant work and engagement took place between the local community, New Ross Chamber of Commerce and the local authority to enable the delivery of this project. The connection between local authorities and communities is crucial for the development of projects that address the genuine needs of our towns and villages. This helps to maximise value for money from the investment of public funds. My commitment to support and develop rural towns and villages is underpinned by the objective of Our Rural Future, the Government's policy for rural development, and aims to create the conditions to make rural communities in Ireland more attractive to live, work and participate in.' Cllr Pip Breen, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, said: 'It is with great pride that I stand here at the official opening of Brennan's Lane, a project delivered under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. This revitalised laneway is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision, and community spirit, and it marks another significant step in enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of New Ross town.' Cllr Bridín Murphy, Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District, said: 'This marks a significant milestone for New Ross, as we celebrate the completion of this refurbishment under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. Brennan's Lane, once a modest thoroughfare, has been transformed into a vibrant, welcoming space that reflects our ambition for the future of the town.' Eddie Taaffe, Chief Executive of Wexford County Council, stated 'The refurbishment of Brennan's Lane is the latest investment in the public realm of New Ross, and is another significant step forward in the regeneration of the town centre.' Deputy Chief Executive of Wexford County Council and Director of Services, Eamonn Hore, remarked: 'This project showcases Wexford County Council's dedication to enhancing our communities, fostering pride, and supporting local vitality. The refurbishment of Brennan's Lane has transformed it into a safer, more accessible, and vibrant space for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.' Alan Fitzhenry, District Manager of New Ross Municipal District said: 'I am delighted to see this excellent project opening for the people of New Ross to enjoy. The Brennan's Lane rejuvenation project has seen a serious team effort from everyone at New Ross Municipal District, working closely with the consultant and contractor, along with local businesses and tradespeople. I would like to sincerely thank everyone involved for their tireless work on this project and we look forward to seeing this space come to life.' The refurbishment of Brennan's Lane aims to create a safer, more accessible thoroughfare, enhancing connectivity within the town and providing a space for residents, visitors, and businesses to thrive. This milestone underscores Wexford County Council's dedication to investing in the future of New Ross under the Government's rural development policy, Our Rural Future. Currently in the pipeline for New Ross is the construction of a skate park in Rosbercon, the development of a Norman Visitor Centre on the Quay, the pedestrianisation of Quay Street, and the provision of a Motor Home Park. These interventions will unlock the potential of New Ross town and help it grow and prosper as a major tourist destination town.
