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Road Closure Arrangements for St. Patrick’s Day Festival

Road Closure Arrangements for St. Patrick’s Day Festival 2022

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Section 75 of the Roads Act 1993 that Waterford City & County Council intend to close the following public roads shall close to facilitate the St. Patrick’s Day Festival 2022.

The following Roads shall be closed on March 17th from 11am until 5pm to facilitate the parade, which starts at 1pm :

• R680 – Merchants Quay
• R680 – Meagher’s Quay
• R680 – Coal Quay
• R680 – Custom House Quay
• R680 – Parade Quay
• R680 – The Mall
• R680 – Parnell Street
• R708 – Catherine Street
• L90025 – Colbeck Street
• L5530 – Lady Lane (from its junction with Bakehouse lane to Colbeck Street)
• L55302 — St Francis Place
• L90024 – Bank Lane
• L90307 – Beau Street
• L90023 – Mall Lane
• R683 – Lombard Street (from its Junction with Rose Lane to The Mall)
• L90022 – Adelpi Quay –(from its junction with Rose Lane to Parade Quay)
• L90021 – Bailey’s New Street
• L90020 – Greyfriars
• L90019 – Coffee House Lane
• L90018 – Henrietta Street
• L90017 – Keyser Street
• L5534 – Exchange Street
• L5535 – Conduit Lane
• L91091 – Barronstrand Street
• L5501 – Gladstone Street
• L1502 – O’Connell Street
• L15021 – Thomas Hill (from its junction with Meeting House Lane to O’Connell Street)
• L5506 – Vulcan Street
• L5505 – Thomas Street
• L1503 – The Glen (Road No. 1)
• L15033 – The Glen (Road No. 3)

Furniture up-cycling workshop with The Revamp Tramp

Monday 21 March online 7pm – 8pm Live Furniture up-cycling workshop with Marianne Heaphy from The Revamp Tramp

In this workshop Marianne will upcycle a small bedside locker using different techniques.

Firstly participants will learn how to correctly prepare the locker for upcycling.

  • You will follow Marianne as she paints the furniture, achieving a beautiful spray like finish.
  • To follow on after painting, she will demonstrate how to apply Decoupage using napkins and Wallpaper.
  • To finish the locker she will show different options on revamping hardware.

Marianne will also go through all the materials that are needed and where to get them from locally.

An email handout will be available to all participants after the workshop.

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/live-furniture-upcycling-workshop-tickets-294547077237

O’Connell Whiskey Merchants wins Waterford’s top enterprise award

O’Connell Whiskey Merchants business from Kilmacthomas is the winner of the Waterford Enterprise Award for 2022, Local Enterprise Office Waterford has announced.

Marking the end of a busy and productive Local Enterprise Week in Waterford, O’Connell Whiskey Merchants took the top prize and will now represent Local Enterprise Office Waterford at the 22nd National Enterprise Awards at the Mansion House in Dublin on June 2nd.

Daithí O’Connell says deep down he is an adventurer, and this is just the next step in his entrepreneurial adventure, “We bring small batch whiskey to market in the premium plus whiskey sector by sourcing and maturing premium whiskies. We are an independent bottler and bonder of spirits, especially Irish whiskey. Our warehouse and bottling line are in Kilmacthomas, Co. Waterford, next to the Waterford Greenway in an 1830s-era famine workhouse and 1970s Flahavan’s grain store house.”

The ceremony was a fitting end to the week in Waterford and included dignitaries such as the Mayor of Waterford city and county, Cllr Joe Kelly, who presented the award at the Mayor’s Parlour on Friday March 11th, “Waterford is extremely proud to be represented nationally by Daithí O’Connell in June. Through its investment and continuous innovation O’Connell Whiskey Merchants has firmly established itself as a market leader and is a great example of how entrepreneurs can turn good ideas into great products.”

O’Connell Whiskey Merchants will now be competing against 30 other finalists from every local authority area for a share of the €35,000 winner’s prize fund as national judging gets underway in May.  Categories this year include ‘Best Export Business,’ ‘Best Start-Up’ and ‘Innovation,’ in addition to eight regional awards.  There are also two new National Enterprise Awards this year with a “One to Watch” award and a “Sustainability / Green” award.

Speaking during Local Enterprise Week Richard Walsh, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Waterford said: “I’d like to thank all the companies that joined us online this week and to our team here in Local Enterprise Office Waterford for rolling out such an impressive programme of events. I’d also like to give a special word of thanks to all the contributors, speakers and facilitators who shared their experiences, challenges and insights at every event.”

The Waterford Enterprise Awards took place as part of a very successful Local Enterprise Week programme of events.  There were over 220 physical and virtual events taking place across the country and 26 in Waterford alone, run by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices from March 7th to 11th.

Local Enterprise Week is organised every year by the Local Enterprise Offices and supported by Enterprise Ireland, local authorities and the Government of Ireland.                                                                  

ENDS

Photos by Noel Browne

Road Closure Arrangements for St. Patrick’s Day Festival

Road Closure Arrangements for St. Patrick’s Day Festival 2022

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Section 75 of the Roads Act 1993 that Waterford City & County Council intend to close the following public roads shall close to facilitate the St. Patrick’s Day Festival 2022.

The following Roads shall be closed on March 17th from 11am until 5pm to facilitate the parade, which starts at 1pm :

• R680 – Merchants Quay
• R680 – Meagher’s Quay
• R680 – Coal Quay
• R680 – Custom House Quay
• R680 – Parade Quay
• R680 – The Mall
• R680 – Parnell Street
• R708 – Catherine Street
• L90025 – Colbeck Street
• L5530 – Lady Lane (from its junction with Bakehouse lane to Colbeck Street)
• L55302 — St Francis Place
• L90024 – Bank Lane
• L90307 – Beau Street
• L90023 – Mall Lane
• R683 – Lombard Street (from its Junction with Rose Lane to The Mall)
• L90022 – Adelpi Quay –(from its junction with Rose Lane to Parade Quay)
• L90021 – Bailey’s New Street
• L90020 – Greyfriars
• L90019 – Coffee House Lane
• L90018 – Henrietta Street
• L90017 – Keyser Street
• L5534 – Exchange Street
• L5535 – Conduit Lane
• L91091 – Barronstrand Street
• L5501 – Gladstone Street
• L1502 – O’Connell Street
• L15021 – Thomas Hill (from its junction with Meeting House Lane to O’Connell Street)
• L5506 – Vulcan Street
• L5505 – Thomas Street
• L1503 – The Glen (Road No. 1)
• L15033 – The Glen (Road No. 3)

Road Closure Arrangements for St. Patrick’s Day Festival

Road Closure Arrangements for St. Patrick’s Day Festival 2022

Notice is hereby given that in accordance with Section 75 of the Roads Act 1993 that Waterford City & County Council intend to close the following public roads shall close to facilitate the St. Patrick’s Day Festival 2022.

The following Roads shall be closed on March 17th from 11am until 5pm to facilitate the parade, which starts at 1pm :

• R680 – Merchants Quay
• R680 – Meagher’s Quay
• R680 – Coal Quay
• R680 – Custom House Quay
• R680 – Parade Quay
• R680 – The Mall
• R680 – Parnell Street
• R708 – Catherine Street
• L90025 – Colbeck Street
• L5530 – Lady Lane (from its junction with Bakehouse lane to Colbeck Street)
• L55302 — St Francis Place
• L90024 – Bank Lane
• L90307 – Beau Street
• L90023 – Mall Lane
• R683 – Lombard Street (from its Junction with Rose Lane to The Mall)
• L90022 – Adelpi Quay –(from its junction with Rose Lane to Parade Quay)
• L90021 – Bailey’s New Street
• L90020 – Greyfriars
• L90019 – Coffee House Lane
• L90018 – Henrietta Street
• L90017 – Keyser Street
• L5534 – Exchange Street
• L5535 – Conduit Lane
• L91091 – Barronstrand Street
• L5501 – Gladstone Street
• L1502 – O’Connell Street
• L15021 – Thomas Hill (from its junction with Meeting House Lane to O’Connell Street)
• L5506 – Vulcan Street
• L5505 – Thomas Street
• L1503 – The Glen (Road No. 1)
• L15033 – The Glen (Road No. 3)

Tidy Towns seminars 2022

Waterford City & County Council and Wexford County Council host a short series of talks to help Tidy Towns groups in the 2022 competition, from planting for pollinators, litter management training and applying the Sustainable Development Goals.


Wednesday 6th April 1pm – Tidy Towns & Sustainability a perspective from Ennis Tidy Towns

This talk by Ennis Tidy Towns addresses the Sustainable Development Goals – how you can think global but act local.

Ennis Tidy Towns were awarded the Sustainable Development Award 2021. We are delighted to hear them talk about their work and answer any questions that you may have. We feel it will be very beneficial for groups to hear first hand how Ennis have incorporated the goals into their everyday activities and actions.

Register here https://www.eventbrite.ie/x/think-global-act-local-how-to-incorporate-sustainable-development-goals-tickets-287719575997


Wednesday 13th April 1pm – What Tidy Towns can do to help pollinators

This talk, led by the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, will give you a clear idea of what your Tidy Town can do to help pollinators – and what to avoid doing – no matter the size of your community.

You will also learn about some of the great work that Tidy Towns have done in previous years for the Pollinator Award and find out about the free resources that can help you develop plans with your own group.

Register here https://www.eventbrite.ie/x/what-can-tidy-towns-do-to-help-pollinators-tickets-289411055257


Wednesday 27th April 1 pm – Tidy Towns Special Awards 2022

This talk led by John Carney, Higher Executive Officer Tidy Towns Unit  will give valuable insights into this year’s special awards.

Register here https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/tidy-towns-competition-special-awards-tickets-292306144547

‘Climate Action – What can I do?’ Series of FREE online talks

Europe Direct Waterford, Waterford Libraries and Waterford City and County Council’s Environment Department have joined forces to host a week of free online events from March 21st to March 26th.  The events will explore what action we can all take to contribute to the Waterford and National Climate Action Plans to create a better local and national environment for the present and the future.

The European Commission’s proposal to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 sets Europe on a responsible path to becoming climate neutral by 2050.  All sectors of the economy and society can contribute, join us to find out how we can come together to achieve this goal.  All talks are free but booking is essential. All can be booked on the Europe Direct Waterford Eventbrite page or find out more at www.waterfordlibraries.ie

Monday 21 March online 7pm – 8pm Live Furniture up-cycling workshop with Marianne Heaphy from The Revamp Tramp

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/live-furniture-upcycling-workshop-tickets-294547077237

Lunchtime lectures:

Active Travel – Are our Communities ready?

A Talk by James Murray (Senior Engineer, Waterford City & County Council) on how Active Travel can impact climate change through schemes like Permeability measures in local communities

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/active-travel-are-our-communities-ready-tickets-294603054667

21 March 1pm – 1:30pm

The impact of climate change on coastal heritage: some examples from the Waterford coast

A Talk by Dr Edward Pollard archaeological researcher on the CHERISH Project based at The Discovery Programme: Centre for Archaeology and Innovation Ireland in Dublin.

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/the-impact-of-climate-change-on-waterfords-coastal-heritage-tickets-271410344647

Tuesday 22 March 1pm – 1:30pm

What can I do to help the pollinators?

A Talk by Kate Chandler from the National Biodiversity Data Centre

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/what-can-i-do-to-help-pollinators-tickets-294407941077

Wednesday 23 March 1pm – 1:30pm

Wildflower Workshop with Horticulturist Aoife Munn

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/wildflower-workshop-with-horticulturist-aoife-munn-tickets-294540367167

Thursday 24 March 1pm – 1:30pm

Grow your own Food – How to get started with GIY’s Mick Kelly

https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/growing-your-own-food-how-to-get-started-with-giys-michael-kelly-tickets-294505091657

Friday 25 March 1pm – 1:30pm

The CHERISH EXHIBITION will run in the Index Gallery, Central Library from March 14th to April 2nd.  CHERISH is a team of archaeologists, geologists and geographers studying the effects of climate change on coastal and maritime heritage in Ireland and Wales. From the skies, at the coast edge, and beneath the waves they are using the latest technologies including planes, drones and sonar to carry out research. They are monitoring recent and long-term change to reveal the past and present impacts of weather and climate on our rich cultural heritage.

The work of CHERISH involves investigating archaeological sites and environments around our coasts including shipwrecks, promontory forts, wetlands and sand dunes. The twenty-nine promontory forts on Waterford’s Copper Coast have been a focus of CHERISH Project research.  The CHERISH Project is funded through the Ireland-Wales Programme 2014-2020, part of the European Regional Development Fund, which focuses on seeking solutions to shared challenges on both sides of the Irish Sea. The project will receive €4.9 million, and will run until June 2023.  To find out more visit www.CHERISHProject.eu

Climate action is at the heart of the European Green Deal, an ambitious package of measures ranging from ambitiously cutting greenhouse gas emissions, to investing in cutting-edge research and innovation, to preserving Europe’s natural environment.  Fighting climate change and achieving the transition to a climate-neutral society will require significant investments, research and innovation, new ways of producing and consuming, and changes in the way we work, use transport and live together. Join us during our Climate Action Week to find out what you can do.

The Europe Direct Waterford Centre is based in Central Library in Waterford City. It is part of a community of 424 Europe Direct centres around Europe whose purpose is to reinforce the important connection between EU institutions and citizens.

-ENDS-

For more information contact:

Sinead O’Higgins, Manager, Central Library and Europe Direct Waterford
sohiggins@waterfordcouncil.ie
087 3637119

Over 100 gather for Waterford’s Third Global Women’s Conference at Theatre Royal

Last Tuesday (8 March) over 100 gathered in the stunning surrounds of Waterford’s Theatre Royal to enjoy an inspiring line up of women who spoke and performed on stage to celebrate and mark International Women’s Day. The occasion was Break the Bias – Waterford’s Third Global Women’s Conference which was organised by Europe Direct Waterford, Waterford Integration Services and Waterford Libraries and marked a return to live events after two years.

The very special line-up of speakers and performers included Waterford writer Dalal Sayed who has written her story Escape from war to live in peace as a Syrian Refugee who now lives with her family in Cappoquin, Co. Waterford, her mentor poet Lani O’Hanlon. Cllr. Mary Roche deputising Mayor, Magda Boulabiza from European Network Against Racism (ENAR) travelled to Waterford from Brussels for the event. ENAR’S aim is to end structural racism in the European Union. Health Advocate and performer Osas Iyamu Usideme spoke and performed a poem and Director of the Bealtaine Library Choir Anne Woodworth also spoke and was joined on stage by 10 members of the Bealtaine Library Choir who sang the European Union anthem Ode to Joy and Oh What a Beautiful Morning. Cora Kearney founder of the Positive Ability Network and the Trash to Treasure Project also spoke as well as student Ciara Fitzgibbon and Sarah Benson CEO of Women’s Aid recorded a short message for the event. Programme Lead at Waterford Integration Services Anne Nolan MCed the event and Singer-songwriter Minnie Marley sang four of her original songs to a delighted audience to end what was an inspirational morning celebrating women’s achievements.

Sinead O’Higgins, Europe Direct Waterford and Waterford Libraries said: “This International Women’s Day we came together for Waterford’s Third Global Women’s Conference. It was our first real-live event in two years and it was a very special morning. We connected, we cried, we laughed, we listened and we were inspired. I would like to extend a huge thank you to all our speakers and performers. We are looking forward to next year already”.

Anne Nolan, Waterford Integration Services added: “International Women’s Day reminds us that whether deliberate or unconscious, bias makes it difficult for women to move ahead. Knowing that bias exists isn’t enough; action is needed to level the playing field. We can strive for a world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive and a world where difference is valued and celebrated. We can all choose to seek out and celebrate women’s achievements. Today we were proud to do our bit in Waterford to help create an inclusive world and open a discussion about how we can all #BreakTheBias on International Women’s Day (IWD) and beyond”.

The Europe Direct Waterford Centre is based in Central Library in Waterford City. It is part of a community of 424 Europe Direct centres around Europe whose purpose is to reinforce the important connection between EU institutions and citizens The Europe Direct network provides timely and factual information on European matters, but also seek to engage with citizens regarding the state and future of the European Union. You can find out more at: @eudirect on facebook and twitter.

ENDS

For more information contact:

Sinead O’Higgins, Manager Central Library and Europe Direct Waterford. sohiggins@waterfordcouncil.ie / 087 3637119

Waterford Student Enterprise final broadcast

The Waterford Student Enterprise final will be broadcast on Thursday March 10th at 11am.

The final will be broadcast live on the Local Enterprise Office’s Facebook page and YouTube account, see link below.

Every year approximately 29,000 students participate in this programme nationally and over 750 students from 11 Waterford schools took part in the programme this year. They generate an enterprise idea, they research the market, they produce a product or service, brand it, market it and sell it. They learn about finance, marketing, prototypes, teamwork and the pressures of running their own business.

Nine awards will be given out during the broadcast including the overall senior winner, who will go on to represent Waterford at the national finals in May. Please support these students by tuning in at 11am on Thursday March 10th and distribute the link to anyone who think might be interested.

‘NeighbourWoods’ Tree-Planting for a more sustainable future

Cherrymount was a hive of activity on Saturday last as volunteers, both young and young at heart, planted 1,500 native Irish trees to create Cherrymount Community NeighbourWoods. 

Following on from the successful planting of a similar number of trees at Carriganore in 2021, Waterford Comhairle na nÓg, Waterford and South Tipperary Community Youth Service’s Be Environmental! Erasmus+ Project and the Forestry Department at Waterford Institute of Technology, were joined this year by Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Lions Club in converting one acre of the green area adjacent to John’s River in Waterford City into what will become an urban woodland.

Deputy Mayor of the Metropolitan District, Cllr. Jason Murphy lent his support to the tree planting campaign and commended the groups for creating an urban woodland, of which the benefits will be enjoyed by future generations.

The tree planting programme not only aims to enhance the natural landscape with native tree species, but will also have a positive impact on the environment and biodiversity, by encouraging a healthy ecosystem through the re-introduction of a wide range of plants in a relatively urban setting.

According to the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, “Native woodlands are an important part of Ireland’s natural, historical and cultural heritage, and are unique in terms of their biodiversity.”

With that in mind, a wide range of native Irish tree species, including alder, downy birch, hawthorn, hazel and rowan trees was planted on the Cherrymount site.

Cllr. Murphy said, “There is no doubt that planting trees in urban areas contributes to so many positives to any community.  From improving air quality, to getting the community together to create a wonderful legacy and giving the younger residents of the estate the unbridled joy of exploring in a woodland area on their very own doorstep.”

“It also heartening to see so much support from local businesses and the wider community, who have supported this great initiative with their time, energy, resources and funding.  I’d like to thank TEVA for their continuous support and Coillte for providing these beautiful native trees.”

Ms. Penny Nordell, President of Waterford Lions Club said this NeighbourWoods scheme is very much in keeping with the Lions Club “Waterford Trees for Life” project which this year has seen over 70 standard trees planted in more than a dozen locations throughout the City particularly in school grounds.

The community project has also been developed to promote positive physical and mental health and give younger people the opportunity to affect real positive change and connect with their peers in a meaningful way after the pandemic.

Also, as part of an innovative lockdown project, Waterford Comhairle na nOg developed an app ‘CommuniTree’, which helps young people to stay connected and to complete environmental challenges to help their digital tree grow.  The more trees that were grown digitally resulted in more trees being planted for NeighbourWoods.

Etse Oshiogwemoh, Chairperson of Comhairle for 2022 said, “In Comhairle we feel a native tree trail is important for a number of reasons.  It helps to embrace and encourage the natural ecosystem and promotes a sustainable future for our community, from which we all benefit.”

The CommuniTree app is available on Google Playstore and Apple App Store.

-ENDS-

Images:  Waterford in Your Pocket

ArtLinks Collaboration Award : Call for Applications

The ArtLinks partners in Carlow, Kilkenny, Waterford and Wexford local authorities are pleased to announce that they are currently accepting applications for the ArtLinks Collaboration Bursary Award 2022. The aim of this award is to encourage more collaboration between artists across the ArtLinks counties and support artists seeking to expand their practice and networks regionally.

The Collaboration Award is open to application by Professional and Emerging Artists who are members of ArtLinks. For this bursary there will be one award of up to €10,000. The award must involve collaboration between artists from two or more ArtLinks counties in the development of new work, to be showcased in two or more ArtLinks counties.

Closing date: Tuesday 19th of April 2022

ArtLinks is a partnership of the four Local Authority Arts Offices in Wexford , Waterford, Carlow and Kilkenny , and is supported by the Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaíon. ArtLinks provides professional development opportunities and supports for established and emerging artists who are resident in the four partner local authority areas of Carlow, Kilkenny, Waterford and Wexford.

Artists must be a current member of ArtLinks to avail of the Collaboration Bursary. You must be registered on or before 11/4/2022 to be eligible to apply for this bursary.

Email artlinks.ie@gmail.com to request a membership application form if you are a new applicant.

This year the application process is online and the closing date for receipt of ArtLinks Collaboration Bursary applications is Tuesday 19th April 2022 at 5pm.

For all ArtLinks enquiries please contact artlinks.ie@gmail.com

Follow ArtLinks on Facebook and Instagram for more information and updates.

Councils to examine feasibility of new Greenway linking Mallow and Dungarvan

Pictured in 2021 at contract signing stage of the Dungarvan to Mallow Greenway Feasibility study were: Johnny Brunnock, Trails Officer, Waterford City & County Council; James Fogarty, Deputy Chief Executive, Cork County Council, Cllr. Tom Cronin, Cathaoirleach of the Dungarvan/Lismore Municipal District; Niall Healy, Director of Services Cork County Council; Cllr Kay Dawson, Former Chair of Fermoy Municipal District; Kieran Boyle, Atkins; Pauline Moriarty, Fermoy MDO, Cork County Council; Richie Walsh, SEO, Waterford City & County Council.

Cork County Council and Waterford City and County Council are to examine the feasibility of a new Greenway linking the two counties.

The potential Greenway would be developed along a 77.35km stretch of scenic countryside adjacent to the River Blackwater, incorporating stunning scenery and using viaduct crossings at key landmark locations.

The route under consideration would run from Mallow, through to Fermoy, and onto Dungarvan where it could link-in and connect with the existing Waterford Greenway.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Gillian Coughlan, said, “This project, should it come to pass, would provide a wonderful opportunity to create a vibrant tourist attraction in the north of the county, which in turn could feed into the tremendous success that is the Waterford Greenway. Nature has already provided us with a wonderful backdrop which in itself already draws tens of thousands of tourists every year. Since the pandemic struck, everyone truly appreciates the benefits of being outdoors, and it is incumbent upon us to explore every opportunity to create new and compelling reasons to explore our wonderful county. I look forward to the outcome of the feasibility study.”

Commenting on the project, Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Joe Kelly, said, “The existing Waterford Greenway has been an unparalleled success since its opening in March 2017. We have witnessed at first hand the transformative effect that a project like this can have on local communities, business and the health &well being of our people. Here in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, Waterford has already been working with Kilkenny, Wexford and Tipperary on Greenway and other outdoor recreation projects. We now look forward to potentially creating further linkages with our near neighbours in Cork through what has the potential to be a very exciting Greenway project.”

Cork County Council will act as the lead authority to carry out the required management responsibilities for the feasibility study, including the formal appointments of project consultants.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey, said, “This feasibility study is the first step in bringing a project like this to fruition. This is an opportunity to develop a strategic, sustainable and captivating Greenway that links the beautiful countryside at the heart of Munster to the scenic coast of Waterford, and beyond. We look forward to seeing the results of the study, and would like to thank the Department of Transport for the funding that has allowed us to explore this exciting project in greater detail.”

Having provided services to similar projects in Ireland and internationally, consultancy company Atkins will bring experience from previous projects, including the Royal Canal Greenway and the Baldoyle to Portmarnock Greenway as well as the ongoing Fingal Coastal Way and Boyne Greenway. Kieran Boyle, Technical Director at Atkins, said: “The Dungarvan to Mallow Greenway Project will provide a new scenic link for local communities and tourists alike to traverse between attractions while enjoying the beautiful landscape. We look forward to collaborating with Cork County Council and Waterford City and County Council to create a new focal point for the region that supports more sustainable travel, encourages tourism, and complements the natural landscape.”

Funding of €361,238 has been awarded to both Cork County Council and Waterford City and County Council by the Department of Transport under the Strategy for the Future Development of National and Regional Greenways to complete the feasibility project.

As part of the initial steps in the development of the feasibility study, the Local Authorities are launching an Online Public Consultation to seek the views of the general public on the Dungarvan to Mallow Greenway. The Consultation will provide information on the vision for the Greenway and other keys details being considered during the initial feasibility route option assessment study. Members of the public are invited to visit the www.corkrdo.ie/greenways from the 7th March to submit their comments online. A local awareness campaign will also be undertaken.

ENDS

Public viewing of Vicky Phelan Portrait on International Women’s Day (this Sunday)

When we think of inspiring women, there is one name who always tops the billing – Vicky Phelan. Her bravery and determination have changed so much for so many.

Waterford Chamber will be joining forces with WIT, Network Waterford, Waterford Chamber Skillnet and the Waterford Local Enterprise office on International Women’s Day to pay tribute to Vicky and to rise vital funds for her chosen charities the Solas Centre and the Shona Project.

On Tuesday, March 8th the Triptych Portrait of Vicky Phelan will be on public display from 4pm to 6pm in the Parlour Vintage Tea Rooms. This will also be the final event in the inimitable tea rooms as it closes its doors permanently thereafter.

Following the public viewing, the organisations will host a business networking event, where guests will have the opportunity to meet with Vicky’s lifelong friend David Brennan who purchased the portrait at auction and hear from artist Vincent Devine on the heartfelt story behind the creation of this masterpiece.

COLLABORATION IS KEY

According to Lynda Lawton, Waterford Chamber, “This is a phenomenal opportunity to view this magnificent piece of art, to pause and reflect and all the while, raise money for two charities that are so important to Vicky.

“Everyone is welcome to come along and you can donate on the day or also online at https://www.idonate.ie/VickiPhelanPortraitExpoMar22. What better way to mark International Women’s Day then to honour an incredible lady who has changed the landscape of the Irish health system for future generations.

“We always say collaboration is key, and it is fantastic that we can come together with our colleagues in WIT, Network Waterford, Waterford LEO and Waterford Chamber Skillnet to present an opportunity such as this.

“It will also be quite a poignant occasion as it marks the last event with our friends at the Parlour Vintage Tea Rooms. What an institution it has become, and we will certainly miss the activity in our building. So if anyone wants to say goodbye to their favourite hideaway, please come along on March 8th from 4pm to 6pm and of course don’t forget your wallet!”

END OF AN ERA

Speaking about the event and marking the end of an era, Sarah Jane Cleary, owner of the Parlour Vintage Tea Rooms said: “All good things come to an end but what better way to say goodbye than to honour a powerful woman on International Women’s Day. To be able to facilitate fundraising for the Solas Centre and the Shona Project, on behalf of Vicky Phelan, is a great honour and the perfect way to say goodbye. The entire contents of The Parlour Vintage Tea Rooms will be up for sale with a percentage of the proceeds going towards Vicky’s chosen charities, so people can always remember the good times we had here, while also remembering what Vicky Phelan has done for the women of Ireland. It is our greatest honour to join with the business community to do this.”

DIGGING DEEP

Following the public viewing, Network Waterford will host a networking reception, with Waterford Chamber and WIT, from 6.30pm in the Parlour Vintage Tea Rooms. According to Network President Margaret Julian, “As an organisation, celebrating women’s achievements is at the core of what we do and we will certainly be digging deep into our pockets to support Vicky’s chosen charities. Having a private audience with the artist is an incredible opportunity and we are inviting the entire business community to come out and support this event.

“Following the event, we are moving to Garter Lane for the opening night of How To Fall Flat on Your Face by Waterford’s Katie Honan, another female tour-de-force. Katie’s play focuses on mental health and the enduring strength of women. After missing out on so much over the past two years, International Women’s Day 2022 is certainly going to be one to remember.”

To register for the Network Waterford event, please go to https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/international-womens-day-networking-reception-tickets-274410809117?aff=ebdssbdestsearch or come along to the Parlour Vintage Tea Rooms between 4pm and 6pm for the public viewing.

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Architectural and Original Drawing Awards 2022

The Irish Georgian Society invites applications for its Architectural and Original Drawing Awards 2022 from all Irish architects and architectural practices, building surveyors, contractors, engineers and other professionals involved in the conservation of historic buildings on the island of Ireland.There will be two award categories: one for a conservation project and one for an original drawing (non-CAD) relating to an historic building or structure. Applications concerning historic buildings of all types, including vernacular, are welcome. Previously shortlisted projects include churches, civic structures, courtyards, houses both urban and rural. Applications must be received in the IGS offices by 12 noon on 29th April 2022. Details available on https://www.igs.ie