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Irish Independent
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Coastal Wexford village to host festival with live music and firework display
"We have lots of exciting family fun activities planned for both the daytime and evening, taking place in the centre of Duncannon village - on the beach, on the green above the beach and in the historic Fort, finally reopened to the public after many years of being closed,' said Trish McGrath, on behalf of the festival committee. "There has been a lot of work done on the Fort, which has been hugely improved and is looking great and it's highly recommended that people take the free tours on the day of the festival,' she added. On Saturday, July 26, the festival will be opened by New Ross and District Pipe Band and the ukulele band, Cool Hand Ukes along with local Ukrainian Singers. The day time activities include yoga, Teddy Bears' Picnic, a sand sculpting competition, craft and food stalls, pet fancy dress, bar servers' race and representatives from SEA School, Seal Rescue and the RNLI. Meanwhile, later that evening, traditional music will be played by Skin the Deer and The Controversial All Stars. A firework display will commence at 10 p.m. by Rocket Pyrotechnics to bring the festival to an official close. 'In addition to all of the scheduled activities, the delights of Duncannon Village, the beach and the seashore are there for people to explore, and enjoy,' continued Ms McGrath. Ms McGrath also pointed out that the Local Link, 'in a great show of community spirit, are very kindly providing a shuttle service to and from Duncannon', connecting its regular 399 service from Hook Head to Ramsgrange and New Ross. This service will run throughout the day and into the evening. They are not charging for this service but are asking for voluntary donations. 'The committee and locals have been working tirelessly to bring the festival back to Duncannon and we're looking forward to welcoming everyone to our beautiful village," Ms McGrath concluded.
Irish Independent
22-07-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Wicklow's Jack Conan shines as the Lions roar in Australia
Sione Tuipulotu, Tom Curry and Ireland's Dan Sheehan all found themselves on the scoresheet at the Suncorp Stadium. The scoreline flattered the hosts, who were firmly second best against a dominant Lions outfit. Joe Schmidt's Wallabies produced a late rally through tries scored by Carlo Tizzano and Tate McDermott; however, a complete comeback never looked likely. Scottish out-half Finn Russell was pulling the strings in attack, while the forward pack all put in a solid shift, especially in the back row, with Tadhg Beirne and Tom Curry justifying their selection despite much debate before the game, where the 2023 World Rugby Player of the year Josh van der Flier was left out of the matchday 23 alongside the highly-rated Welshman Jac Morgan. 32-year-old Conan put in another strong performance in the number eight jersey. He made 10 carries, gained 64 metres and made 16 tackles. He was one of eight Irish players to make the starting team. Hugo Keenan, James Lowe, Jamison Gibson-Park, Dan Sheehan, and Joe McCarthy all made their Lions test debuts, while Andrew Porter, Rónan Kelleher and Bundee Aki all earned their first test appearance off the bench. New Ross's Tadhg Furlong collected his seventh test cap, having worn the number 3 jersey throughout the 2017 and 2021 series in New Zealand and South Africa, respectively. The competition for test places has been fierce on this Australian tour, with other players getting the opportunity to push themselves into the selection conversation for the Melbourne test this weekend during the last midweek game against First Nations & Pasifika XV. Wicklow's van der Flier will be aiming to play his part in the final two tests as the Lions attempt to win back-to-back test series in Australia, following on from the 2013 success. Before the game, Lions Head Coach Andy Farrell said, 'This fixture gives players another opportunity to put their hand up for selection for the final two tests. 'The coaches' minds are open when it comes to selection; they have to be with so many players performing and pushing for places, and we want that to continue for the remaining two tests,' he said. 'This group know the level of performance that we will require against a First Nations Pasifika team that is packed with talent and power.'
Irish Independent
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
New Ross Guitar Festival hits a high note across Wexford
With a balanced programme embracing not just classical guitar but also rock, blues, country, and Americana, it was a vibrant celebration of music, community, and connection. The festivities began on Thursday night with US bluesman Eric Bibb playing to a full house at St. Michael's Theatre. His heartfelt, soul-stirring blues – accompanied by Gunnar Lindstrom on guitar, Greger Andersson on harmonica, and Ulrika Bibb's stunning vocals – set a high bar and a deeply emotional tone for the days ahead. Friday evening offered something completely different in the form of a transcendent classical performance in the serene surrounds of St. Mary's Church. The ever-gracious Irish guitarist, Pat Coldrick, stepped in for Vera Danilina, who was unfortunately unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances. Pat's performance held the room in rapt attention, a gentle masterclass in musical storytelling. That theme of mastery continued into Saturday morning, when classical virtuoso John Feeley led an inspiring and intimate masterclass, guiding young musicians through the works of Bach and Brouwer with quiet authority and encouragement. But the magic wasn't confined to the concert halls and this year's festival saw New Ross come alive in various outdoor settings. Saturday afternoon saw local Wexford band, Kiss My Grass, fill Brennan's Lane with joyful country, bluegrass, and Americana. Their toe-tapping tunes and playful spirit had locals and visitors alike dancing, laughing, and soaking up the sunshine between sets. By Saturday night, the town was buzzing and the energy centred the sold-out show from Hothouse Flowers. Liam Ó Maonlaí's magnetic presence and lyrical piano playing wove beautifully through a rich tapestry of Irish trad, rock, and soul. Joined by Fiachna Ó Braonáin on guitar, Peter O'Toole on bouzouki and bass, Dave Clarke on drums, and Martin Brunsden on double bass, the band delivered a performance that left the crowd spellbound, as an audience member described the experience as "an emotional and unforgettable evening". "Fiachna and the lads are just an incredibly gifted group of musicians... an absolute privilege,' they added. Fiachna, in turn, reflected on his deep connection to the instrument that started it all, describing his love of the guitar as something that 'set my world on fire". On Sunday, the weekend's formal events came to a graceful close with a solo concert by John Feeley. Performing original compositions and beloved classical works, he offered a tender, nuanced set that left listeners moved and uplifted. But the festival had one more surprise in store and for the first time ever, the New Ross Guitar Festival partnered with Duncannon Village to host Busking on the Beach where the event comprised of local and international musicians performing right on the sand. With the sea as their backdrop, and the weather kindly cooperating, Duncannon came alive with song, spirit, and seaside celebration. As the weekend wrapped up, it became clear that this was no ordinary festival. It was a heartfelt celebration of what music makes possible, not just world-class artistry, but also grassroots joy, spontaneous moments, and deep connection. Artistic director of the festival, David Creevy, said: 'The artists gave memorable performances, with a wide range of talent from international stars to local musicians busking for the first time. We look forward to doing it all again next year.' Niall Ó Muílleoir of the Duncannon Village Renewal Group echoed that sentiment: 'This was a perfect partnership because of the quality of the musicians. The event raised the spirit of the community - locals and visitors alike. It was a great success, and we even managed to duck the rain!' It's been confirmed that preparations are already under way to include more magic, music, and meaningful connection when the festival returns next summer.
BreakingNews.ie
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- BreakingNews.ie
Acclaimed US journalist Jim Acosta announced for Kennedy Summer School
The Kennedy Summer School has announced that acclaimed American journalist and author Jim Acosta will be a featured guest speaker at this year's event, taking place in New Ross, Co Wexford, from August 28th to 30th. On Saturday afternoon, August 30th, former CNN chief White House correspondent Jim Acosta will take part in a conversation with Dr Stacey Connaughton of Purdue University. Advertisement Renowned for his distinguished career in journalism, Mr Acosta gained national recognition as CNN's chief White House correspondent, where his rigorous questioning and high-profile exchanges with president Donald Trump made headlines worldwide. Mr Acosta joined CNN in 2007 after beginning his career in local radio and television and with CBS News, where he covered issues including the 2004 presidential election, the Iraq War and Hurricane Katrina. He covered Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton's campaigns for the 2008 presidential election at the beginning of his time at CNN before becoming a national political correspondent and covering Mitt Romney's 2012 presidential campaign. He was promoted to senior White House correspondent during Mr Obama's second term as president, then became chief White House correspondent in 2018, during Donald Trump's first term as president. Mr Acosta now hosts The Jim Acosta Show on Substack and YouTube. Advertisement His participation in the Kennedy Summer School will offer attendees a unique opportunity to hear his reflections on journalism, American politics, and the challenges facing democracy today. The 2025 Kennedy Summer School opens on Thursday, August 28th, with a Schools STEM Event at the JFK Arboretum featuring Veronica Campbell, and Ciarán Seoighe, and Dr Charles Larkin moderated by Prof Patrick Prendergast. That afternoon, Seán O'Rourke will host a Tea Party with music by Sharon Clancy, compered by Seán Connick. The official opening that evening at St Michael's Theatre will be led by Eileen Dunne, followed by a screening and discussion of From That Small Island with Prof Bríona Nic Dhiarmada, Prof Jane Ohlmeyer, Brian Murphy, and Colm Mac Con Iomaire. Friday includes a Great Gatsby centenary session with Prof Kirk Curnutt. A "senior government figure will speak at the Speakers' Lunch". Panels follow on local journalism (Alan Corcoran, Brenda Power, Jessica O'Connor, Dave O'Connell, Bill Forry) and the Noel Whelan Interview with Colm Tóibín and Sinéad McSweeney. The day ends with 'President Trump & Us' moderated by Tony Connelly.
Irish Independent
21-07-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
New Ross crews sprint for glory in Fermoy
The strong turnout and competitive spirit showcased the club's depth and commitment to sprint racing as the Fermoy Sprints is a unique fixture on the Irish rowing calendar, featuring short, high-intensity races under 500 metres, and less than a quarter of the standard 2 km course rowed by junior athletes. These races demand explosive starts, razor-sharp focus, and flawless execution, as even the smallest mistake can be the difference between victory and defeat. The junior girls continued their rich vein of form, taking home two victories in Fermoy on the weekend. In the Junior Girls 14s single scull, Katie Nolan put in another trademark performance starting fast from the stakeboat and powering home to win her heat and record the fastest time of the day for Junior 14 girls which earned her a gold medal for the second week running in a single scull. New Ross was also very well represented in this event, where Janey Cashman put in a fine performance finishing strong to place second in her heat and hold off a strong finish from the Castleconnel sculler in the next lane. Nolan and Cashman then combined for the second win of the weekend in the Junior Girls 14s double scull. The New Ross girls are known for their fast starts and desire to win. And just as was the case in the 1k classic, the girls didn't disappoint the expectations of their New Ross supporters as they dominated their final putting clear water between themselves and the competing crews from Cork and Capoquin. Nolan and Cashman are on super form in the double this year, sweeping competing crews aside in all but one regatta this season. Nolan was also very unfortunate in the Junior Girls 15s single scull, as after the heats she lay in third place which would ordinarily have qualified her for the final and given her another shot at glory, but, according to New Ross Boat Club, 'due to a clerical error by the event officials, she was omitted from the final and lost the opportunity to contest another final.' Another noteworthy performance was delivered by Isabel Rossiter who was rowing senior for the first time, finishing in a very credible seventh place in an experienced field of scullers. Meanwhile, the junior boys also gave the supporters a cause for cheer throughout the competition. Early in the regatta, the junior boys 16s 4x+ crew of Aogán Slater (bow), Michael Murray (2), Henry Roche (3), Cormac Crotty (Stroke) coxed by Kevin Phelan put in an impressive row in the heat to qualify them for the final. They put in another outstanding performance in the final to place third in a hotly contested race against more experienced crews from Cappoquin and Waterford. Not to be outdone, New Ross was well represented in the boys junior 18s double scull with two crews competing where Liam Crotty (bow) and Kevin Phelan (Stroke) were joined by Donnchadh Slater (Bow) and Ben Cashman (stroke). Phelan and Crotty won their heat comfortably to progress to the final where they finished second in a fantastic race. Slater and Cashman also put in a really strong performance, narrowly missing out on the final and finishing fourth overall, on which is commendable since the crew is eligible to race in the same event next year. The success for New Ross continued in the boys junior 18s singles skulls where all four oarsmen competed in single skulls with Liam Crotty qualifying for the final where he finished second in a close race. Kevin Phelan also dashed down the course but narrowly missed out on a place in the final, while Ben Cashman and Donnchadh Slater had excellent outings and are primed to continue their progress in the next regatta. There was other noteworthy performances from Cormac Crotty and Aogán Slater in the single sculls and Slater again teamed up with Henry Roche in the 16s double scull where they finished eighth of 18 crews in a strong field in what was just their second outing as a double pairing. The New Ross boys also performed superbly in the coxed quads where the 18s crew, of Slater (Bow), Cashman (2), Crotty (3) and Phelan (stroke) coxed by Janey Cashman, placed third with a blanket finish between the three competing crews where a photo was required to determine who's bow ball crossed the line first. Not to be outdone, the Masters rowers put in a fine performance in the mixed coxed crew of Paula Whelan (Bow), Mick Dwyer (2), Dave MacCarthy (3), Amy O'Hanlon (Stroke) coxed by Janey Cashman. The New Ross crew got off to a fast start and battled hard down the course, bow ball to bow ball against the home favourites from Fermoy in a race which had the spectators on their feet. Everything was to play for with the finish in sight, but Fermoy just had a little extra on the day and edged in front just before the hooter sounded in an exciting finish applauded by the gallery. There was also a very credible performance by the Women's Masters 4X+ which came ninth overall as the crew of Paula Whelan (Bow), Ursula Quirke (2), Anna Dwyer (3) and Talitha Doran (Stroke) coxed by Janey Cashman continue to go from strength to strength in every regatta they compete in. 'This regatta served as excellent preparation for the club's junior athletes, who now turn their focus to the Irish National Rowing Championships, taking place at the National Rowing Centre in Cork from July 18 to July 20. With strong performances and valuable race experience under their belts, the New Ross juniors are well-positioned to take on the nation's best,' said Dave Roche, of New Ross Boat Club. Also commenting on the event, Captain Amy O'Hanlon from the club said: 'Once again a massive well done to all who took part. It was a great day of fun for everyone, and it was non-stop from the moment we hit the quay until the last race. It was a great way to wrap up the season for some of our members. Roll on the championships'. New Ross Boat Club is proud to acknowledge the efforts and achievements of all rowers who represented the club at Fermoy: Cormac Crotty, Michael Murray, Aogán Slater, Henry Roche, Katie Nolan, Janey Cashman, Liam Crotty, Kevin Phelan Ben Cashman, Donnchadh Slater, Isabel Rossiter, Talitha Doran, Anna Dwyer, Ursula Quirke, Paula Whelan, Amy O'Hanlon, Dave MacCarthy, Mick Dwyer New Ross Boat Club Full Results from 1k Classic: 1st place in Heat of Girls J14 1x, 1st overall: K. Nolan 2nd place in Heat of Girls J14 1x, 12th overall: J. Cashman 1st place in Girls J14 2x Heat, 2nd overall: K. Nolan (Bow), J. Cashman (Stroke) 3rd place overall in Girls J15 1x: K. Nolan 7th place in Senior Women's 1x: I. Rossiter 10th place in Girls J18 2x: I. Rossiter (bow), J. Cashman (Stroke) 12th place in Boys J15 1x: C. Crotty 9th place in Boys J16 1x: C. Crotty 27th place in Boys J15 1x: A. Slater 2nd in Boys J18 1x: L. Crotty 10th place in Boys J18 1x, Final 4: K. Phelan 13th place in Boys J18 1x, Final 4: B. Cashman 15th place in Boys J18 1x, Final 4: D. Slater 8th place overall in Boys J16 2x: A. Slater (Bow), H. Roche (Stroke) 4th place overall in Boys J18 2x, Final 7: D. Slater (Bow), B. Cashman (Stroke) 2nd place overall in Boys J18 2x, Final 7: L. Crotty (Bow), K. Phelan (Stroke) 3rd place in final of Boys J16 4x+: A. Slater (Bow), M. Murray (2), H. Roche (3), C. Crotty (Stroke), K. Phelan (Cox) 2nd place in final of Boys J18 4x+, Heat: D. Slater (Bow), B. Cashman (2), L. Crotty (3), K. Phelan (Stroke), J. Cashman (Cox) 3rd place in Women's Masters 4x+, Final 2: P. Whelan (Bow), U. Quirke (2), A. Dwyer (3) and T. Doran (Stroke), J. Cashman (Cox) 2nd place in Mixed Masters 4x+, Final 1: P. Whelan (Bow), M. Dwyer (2), D. MacCarthy (3), A. O'Hanlon (Stroke), J. Cashman (Cox)
