Latest news with #WicklowCountyCouncil
Irish Independent
7 hours ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
Report into Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk finds closure ‘has cost national economy tens of millions in lost revenue'
The report, by Jim Power, will be launched in Greystones Sailing Club at 4pm, on Tuesday, June 3, by the community group, Friends of the Cliff Walk. Using national and international economic models, including Failte Ireland data, as well as information from local businesses, the report has found that the closure, now in its fifth year, has cost the national economy tens of millions of euro in lost revenue, with a corresponding negative financial impact on Wicklow, and on Greystones in particular. The report also shows how the closure runs counter to Wicklow County Council's own policies and objectives, including access to a public right of way, as well as national goals relating to exercise, fitness and combatting obesity. The report will be presented by Mr Power and the venue and surroundings (Greystones Marina with the Bray Head backdrop) make for a suitably photogenic setting for the launch. Jim Power is economic advisor to the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation and a former advisor to both Bank of Ireland and Allied Irish Banks. He teaches at Dublin City University and the Smurfit Business School, and is a regular media commentator. Meanwhile, an update was provided on the Cliff Walk at the May meeting of Greystones Municipal District, in which councillors heard that the tender process for a report into the trail, has hit a setback. District manager Marc Devereux advised that because there was a query raised regarding that tender, that query has to be addressed, which resets the clock. While it was hoped that a successful consultant would have been awarded the tender for the report by now, the process has been delayed. Wicklow County Council has two tenders out for the Cliff Walk: one for rockfall stabilisation works to the value of €500,000, and the second to the value of €80,000 for the engineering report. The aim of tender process for the latter is to identify qualified experts to examine issues affecting the trail, and involves a number of key areas, including the condition of the Cliff Walk, the integrity of the rock face along Bray Head, and the identification of all points along the trail that are at risk of collapse.
Irish Independent
8 hours ago
- General
- Irish Independent
Wicklow's All-Ireland referee John Keenan honoured with Cathaoirleach's Award
Hosted by Arklow Municipal District and supported by the local elected members, the presentation ceremony saw the inter-county referee and proud Aughrim native welcomed, along with his family, friends, and colleagues, to accept the esteemed honour. During the ceremony, Arklow MD cathaoirleach Cllr Pat Kennedy presented John with a piece of crystal in recognition of his achievements. After beginning his refereeing career in 2007, John was chosen to officiate the All-Ireland Hurling Final in 2023, which was held at a packed Croke Park. This match is remembered as one of the finest examples of a hurling final, and his contributions to the game are highly regarded. He has represented Wicklow at all levels of refereeing and continues to dedicate his time to the sport. Commenting on John's distinguished career, unwavering integrity, and deep respect for both sporting codes, particularly hurling, Cllr Kennedy said: 'Over the years, we've watched John officiate some of the most intense and high-stakes matches in hurling. 'From Leinster Championship battles to All-Ireland showdowns, his presence in the middle of the field brought calm to chaos, authority without arrogance, and decisions made with conviction' 'Beyond the sidelines and stadiums, John has contributed something even more valuable, a model of refereeing built on respect. Respect for the game, respect for the players, and respect for the craft of officiating' Wicklow County Council chief executive Emer O'Gorman extended her congratulations to John Keenan on his achievements, acknowledging the 'unwavering support of his wife Annette, daughters Emma and Ava, and his extended family, including his father Liam'. Arklow MD manager, Leonora Earls, emphasised the importance of recognising members of the community who have represented the District with distinction, noting that John's contribution continues through his 'mentorship and the guidance he offers to those aspiring to follow in his footsteps'.
Irish Independent
a day ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
Wicklow charitymarks 15 years as annual report highlights ‘helping homeless with dignity'
Senator Aubrey McCarthy marked the milestone with a reminder of how 'a small group of us came together to create an organisation dedicated to helping those facing addiction and homelessness with dignity', and described 2024 as 'both busy and impactful'. In his message, he pointed to huge challenges in the early part of the year, when, in February, the demand for homeless services surged at Tiglin's Lighthouse homeless café, in Dublin. "Despite limited resources, the team persevered, distributing essentials to those in need,' he said. He was rewarded personally for his endeavours when he was bestowed with the Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year award, in May, something he modestly described as a 'true team effort'. This was followed in June, when he was 'both surprised and delighted' to be presented with the RDS Lifetime Achievement Award. From a challenging start, the year ended on a hugely positive note, with the organisation benefitting from a €1.4m grant to enhance women's recovery facilities, in September, followed by the October purchase of the Loreto convent in Bray. CEO Phil Thompson called the acquisition of the Bray facility 'remarkable', and noted how the site, currently home to around 40 Ukrainian nationals, 'opens new possibilities for Tiglin to address housing and healthcare needs for vulnerable populations'. "Looking ahead, we are excited to collaborate with Wicklow County Council and other state bodies to unlock the full potential of this site,' he said. The event, on Thursday, May 22, was hosted by Senator McCarthy, who was recently appointed to the Oireachtas Committee on Housing and Local Government, and showcased the charity's impactful and life-changing work across the country. The report itself outlines a year of intense activity and growing need. In 2024 alone, Tiglin's frontline Lighthouse Café served over 100,000 hot meals – an indicator of the deepening crisis of homelessness and hardship in Ireland. Social Care in Action brought together members of the Oireachtas, frontline workers, service users, and supporters. It offered a rare opportunity for policymakers to hear directly from those working on, and affected by, the realities of Ireland's social care landscape. A central theme was the role of lived experience in shaping effective national policy, particularly in the areas of addiction recovery, housing, and reintegration. ADVERTISEMENT Among the speakers were Tiglin graduates Paul and Nicola, who shared powerful personal stories of transformation. Nicola reflected on her past. 'My main goal for the day used to be just to drink. That was it. And saying it now, it's heartbreaking,' she said. Nicola was a participant in RTE's riveting three-part documentary in April, Hooked, hosted by Dr Brian Pennie. She was in the latter stages of treatment for alcohol addiction at Tiglin's Women's Centre in Greystones, and recounted how her days were shaped by addiction. These days, as part of Tiglin's reintegration programme, she's working in the bakery at the Rise coffee shop, while studying and slowly rebuilding herself as she strives to 'dip back into reality and to life'. Meanwhile, Paul, who also spoke at the launch, described how his life has too changed: 'Right now, in the community, I'm not 'Paul the addict' anymore,' he said. 'I'm just Paul. People don't know my past unless I tell them. And for the first time, I see a future – one where I give back and help others find their way too.' Today, Tiglin operates across seven locations, offering rehabilitation, supported housing, education, youth outreach, and community employment programmes. All of its work is grounded in a holistic, person-centred approach of restoration and dignity. The 2024 Annual Report highlights some remarkable outcomes for the organisation, including:
Irish Independent
2 days ago
- Business
- Irish Independent
Town Team formed to help with regeneration of Wicklow village
This initiative aligns with the national Town Centre First Policy and has been developed in close partnership with Wicklow County Council. The Rathdrum Town Team unites local stakeholders, business owners, community groups, and public representatives who share a vision of promoting sustainable growth and well-being in Rathdrum. The team will focus on strategic actions to support local businesses, improve public spaces and elevate Rathdrum's profile as a vibrant destination for both residents and visitors. There was strong local support on the night, with Cathaoirleach of Arklow Municipal District Cllr. Pat Kennedy, attending alongside fellow councillors Pier Leonard and Warren O'Toole. They joined community members in celebrating the establishment of the team. Cathaoirleach of Arklow Municipal District Cllr. Pat Kennedy, said: "I warmly welcome the formation of the Rathdrum Town Team. This initiative is a wonderful example of how collaboration between local people, businesses, and the Council can create positive momentum for Rathdrum. "Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant Rathdrum that supports our community, local economy, and enhances the quality of life for everyone who lives here or visits." Tim Ryan, chairperson of the Rathdrum Town Team, stated: "We are pleased to bring together people from all parts of the community to make Rathdrum a welcoming and lively town. This team is all about supporting each other and creating a great place for everyone." Stephen Clarke, town regeneration officer from Wicklow County Council, added: 'It's fantastic to see this community-driven initiative taking shape. Wicklow County Council is here to support the Rathdrum Town Team as they help bring new energy to their town." Everyone in the community is asked to get involved, share ideas, and help make Rathdrum an even better place for all.
Irish Independent
22-05-2025
- Irish Independent
Wicklow's Great Sugarloaf has a new trail open for summer hikes
Almost three years of planning had gone into the project, with the final proposals approved last April to preserve the mountain, making it more sustainable and more accessible for walkers. The mountain, described by Wicklow County Council as 'one of the busiest recreational areas' in the county, was suffering significant erosion and habitat destruction, while the car park was in dire need of an upgrade. The urgency to do something was borne out in the footfall, with figures last summer showing an average of 220 people made the climb every day – with a spike of roughly 870 on a Saturday and 760 on a Sunday. The works were well underway last summer, and involved a local contractor Howie Miller with his own team, which included workers who completed the restoration of the Croagh Patrick trail. Councillor Stephen Stokes was at the foot of the mountain with the cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, councillor Paul O'Brien, as the finishing touches were approved on Wednesday, May 21. It was also the official launch of the Wicklow Trails app, an innovative digital guide designed to enhance the visitor experience across the county's scenic walking routes. 'The Great Sugarloaf is a treasured part of Wicklow's landscape and identity,' Cllr Stokes said. 'This restoration project ensures that the mountain is protected while enhancing the visitor experience. The Wicklow Trails app is a fantastic tool for both locals and tourists to explore our county's breath-taking walks, and to do so safely and sustainably." The Great Sugarloaf restoration project was led in collaboration with key environmental partners, with funding received from the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS). Cllr Stokes explained the project focused on repairing eroded paths, improving trail safety, and preserving the mountain's unique landscape for generations to come. The initiative has ensured that the Great Sugarloaf remains accessible while safeguarding its natural beauty. Cllr O'Brien praised the collaborative effort behind the project and the potential of the new app to boost sustainable tourism in the region. Since its soft launch, earlier this year, the Wicklow Trails app has had over 11,000 unique visitors, with the majority coming from Dublin. "Of particular interest is that 20pc of visitors are viewing the website from a desktop,' Cllr Stokes added. 'This indicates that people are planning their journeys in advance. Part of the goal with the app is to encourage walkers to consider alternative trails, which encourages tourism right across County Wicklow rather than a few key sites." ADVERTISEMENT The Wicklow Trails app includes interactive trail maps, and safety tips making it an essential companion for walkers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. 'This is a wonderful day for County Wicklow,' Cllr Stokes said, as he extended his thanks to the local community, volunteers, and project partners for their dedication throughout the Great Sugarloaf restoration works. 'Not only have we preserved a vital part of our natural heritage at the Great Sugarloaf, but we are also embracing technology to promote responsible outdoor recreation. The Wicklow Trails app will empower users and encourage more people to discover the beauty of our county."
