Awards - Waterford City & County Council

9th October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

LEO announces 2025 Glas Award winners!

The 3rd Glas awards, in association with Waterford City and County Council recognise and celebrate the micro businesses in County Waterford who have made significant advances in bringing green principles into their business models. None more so than this year’s winners, Blossom and Berry, and The Hat Maker.

The Green Micro Enterprise of the Year, open to all with employees of 10 or less was won by Blossom and Berry who impressed the judges with its, “Commitment to mitigating climate change by integrating green principles in every aspect of its operations.” Nestled in the picturesque town of Lismore, County Waterford, Blossom & Berry is a sustainable florist.

The Green SME of the Year, open to those between 11 and 50 employees was won by The Hat Maker. This new hotel in Dungarvan is a refurbishment of an existing protected structure. It achieved an A2 rating, ensuring sustainable reuse of this historic building in the town centre.

Speaking at the prize giving Waterford City and County Mayor, Councillor Seamus Ryan said, “These awards are another opportunity to reward businesses for their climate actions. Today we recognise two leaders in the field in our county. I’d like to congratulate both businesses in what is a thoroughly deserved accolade.

“The Glas awards and the actions of the winners mark another step towards Waterford’s green targets. The link between the Council and business in Waterford has never been more important.”

Blossom & Berry is actively working to reduce its carbon intensity and move closer to carbon neutrality. The sustainability efforts include reducing its carbon footprint through energy conservation via LED alternatives, water conservation and solar power. As owner Claudia O’Neill says, “The sustainability initiatives we’ve implemented have created profoundly positive impacts on both our business operations and brand identity.”

David Burke and his team at The Hat Maker brought a dilapidated building back in to use in Dungarvan town centre. The 16 elegantly appointed rooms offer an intimate and exclusive experience. Repurposing, repairing and refurbishing, every element of the creation and running of the hotel has a sustainable ethos. As Davis says, “As well as being the right thing to do, it reduces costs significantly when fully committed to and done properly. It also acts as a marketing tool for our business as it is important to the consumer segment we target.”

Each winner received a cash prize of €2,500 and a Glas trophy, designed and created by Brendan O’Donnell. The awards have been solely made from reclaimed and recycled materials. Solid oak is from cabinet drawers, while the plastic is a mix of milk bottles, lids from drinks containers from a cafe and hygiene product drums from a dairy farm.

Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, Gareth Evans was delighted with the quality of entries for the awards, “The LEO wants to show other businesses that investment in this area is not only the right thing to do, but the smart thing too. Every entry to these awards will tell you that they have reaped the benefits of their investment.

“LEO Waterford has numerous supports available to help businesses with their sustainable journey. The Green for Business Programme is a two day consultancy programme that provides a Green Consultant to work with a business, helping to identify the steps they can take in being more sustainable. The business will then be issued with a Green for Business report and most importantly, all costs are covered by the Local Enterprise Office.

“Following this, if the business is considering making changes they may avail of our Energy Efficiency Grant which offers 75% of eligible costs to a maximum of €10,000 towards the upgrades.”

For further information on the Glas and other Local Enterprise Office Awards, follow this link www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford, contact LEO Waterford at 051 849905 or email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie

22nd September 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Winner of the Molly Keane Creative Writing Award 2025 announced

Waterford City and County Council’s Arts Office is pleased to announce the winner of the national Molly Keane Creative Writing Award 2025.

Laura Cassidy from Cork city was announced as the award winner for her short story Digs, and received a cash prize and a writing course at the Molly Keane Writers Retreat in Ardmore to a total value of €550.

Laura is a contributing editor at Banshee literary journal, where along with her co-founders she was named a Bookseller Rising Star. Laura received an Agility Award and Literature Bursary Award from the Arts Council of Ireland in support of her short stories, which have appeared in The Pig’s Back and Trinity’s College Green Magazine.

In 2024 she was awarded a Munster Literature Centre Mentorship Bursary with Frank O’Connor Fellow Camilla Grudova. Laura reviews books for the Irish Examiner and is currently working on a collection of stories and a novel. She grew up in the village of Two Mile House in Co. Kildare, just a few miles from Molly Keane’s birthplace.

Waterford City and County Council Arts Officer, Margaret Organ, congratulated Laura on her well-crafted short story and acknowledged all those who took the time to enter their stories into the competition.

Digs is the twenty eighth winner of the Molly Keane Creative Writing Award run by Waterford City and County Council’s Arts Office and by kind permission of the Keane family and was announced as the winner on Culture Night. The reading of the winning story can be viewed on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayixVoMUQOw

26th August 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council shortlisted for Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards

Waterford City and County Council has been shortlisted in two categories of the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards 2025.

The awards are held in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and showcase best practice in local government and recognise the skills, vision and innovation within local government.

The Business Pledge for a Cleaner, Greener Waterford has been shortlisted in the Climate Change category. This category recognises innovative initiatives that not only educate but take concrete actions to mitigate against the effects of climate change.

As part of Waterford City and County Council’s Roadmap to delivering a Carbon Neutral Waterford by 2040, the Local Authority introduced its Business Pledge for A Cleaner, Greener Waterford in September 2024.

A baseline emissions inventory of Waterford City revealed that businesses were the largest source of emissions in the city, accounting for 28% of emissions. Many are small businesses that struggle to find the time or capital to invest in changes that would make their business more sustainable.

In 2024 Waterford City and County Council ran an ambassador campaign to encourage businesses to sign up to the Pledge and complete actions to reduce their carbon footprint over the next few years. Businesses were rewarded with a 9% rates discount while the Council monitored emissions reductions.

Over 1,000 businesses have taken the Pledge and the Council continues to work with these businesses to give them the support, tools and advice they need to become more sustainable.

In the Health and Wellbeing category, Good Grief has been shortlisted. This award recognises initiatives by a Local Authority that promote the health and wellbeing of its community.

Good Grief is a collaborative initiative between Waterford City and County Council and Wexford County Council, funded by Creative Ireland. Its primary focus is exploring the role of creativity in supporting self-soothing for adults over 18 in their second-year post-bereavement.

By partnering with academic institutions and health organisations, Good Grief seeks to understand how artistic engagement can aid emotional healing and resilience during the complex grieving process. Good Grief exemplifies a community-focused, cross-sectoral approach to bereavement support, highlighting the importance of creative expression as a tool for wellbeing and recovery in the later stages of grief.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan said, “I am delighted to see the work of Waterford City and County Council and its partners recognised nationally.

“These projects highlight the effectiveness of collaborations between the Local Authority, business stakeholders, health and education institutions and the local community.

“From promoting and supporting ways to mitigate climate change to providing mechanisms to enrich mental health and wellbeing, these projects demonstrate that truly powerful results can be yielded when people work together.”

Sean McKeown, Chief Executive Waterford City and County Council added, “The awards recognise and showcase dedication and enthusiasm. This year’s shortlisted projects not only demonstrate innovation and drive, but also the vision of the Local Authority, working in conjunction with local stakeholders in continuing to make Waterford the best place to live, work and invest in.”

The 2025 Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards, sponsored by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage take place in Dublin on November 27^th.

14th August 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford PPN Community & Voluntary Awards Celebrates its 21st year

The launch of the 21st Waterford PPN Community & Voluntary Awards took place at The Park Hotel recently and speaking at the launch Deputy Mayor of Waterford City & County Council, Cllr. John Pratt acknowledged the work of the PPN, saying

“Waterford has a proud tradition of volunteering and community action, it is what connects our towns, villages and rural areas and Waterford PPN has played a huge role in this by supporting and giving a voice to its 780 member groups/organisations enabling them to shape a better, more inclusive and more vibrant Waterford”

The awards scheme is Waterford’s only platform celebrating the vibrancy of the community and voluntary sector. It honours the dedication and passion of volunteers and organisations that strengthen wellbeing, inclusion and community life and well- being. Rooted in empowerment, inclusivity and active citizenship the awards shine a light on the often unsung heroes that build a stronger more connected society and inspire others to get involved.

None of this would be possible without the generous support and commitment of the sponsors whose belief in community values helps honor and uplift the unsung heroes among us. Their support reflects a shared dedication to building a vibrant, inclusive and connected Waterford for all. This year’s awards are in collaboration with Waterford City & County Council, Waterford Volunteer Centre, Expressway, Waterford Local Community Safety Partnership, South East Energy Agency, BHP Insurance, Cairde Credit Union & Waterford Credit Union, Local Link Waterford & Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

Marion O’ Mara Secretariat member from the Waterford PPN thanked all the sponsors and stated “The longevity of these awards is a true testament to the enduring spirit of volunteerism in Waterford and to all those who have supported this initiative over the years from our committed Council and generous sponsors to the tireless efforts of the PPN Secretariat and staff.

Group Categories & Prizes

Children & Youth
Community Safety
Environment & Conservation
Health & Wellbeing
Spick & Span/Best Kept Residential Area
Social Enterprise
Social Inclusion & Community Support

Winners of the above awards will receive €700 per category and there will be 2 runner prizes of €300 per category.

Individual Volunteer of the Year Awards

Age Friendly Volunteer of the year
Board/Committee Member of the year
Junior Volunteer of the Year

The winner will receive a crystal award and a certificate of achievement.

Pride of Place National Award

The prestigious Pride of Place National Award will go to one standout group, selected from the seven category winners who will go on to represent Waterford in the National All Island Pride of Place Awards taking place in 2026.

Closing Date – Closing date for receipt of nominations is Wednesday 3^rd SEPTEMBER 2025

For further information, Terms & Conditions and nomination forms please visit www.waterfordppn.ie call 058 21198 or email waterfordppn@gmail.com

Now is the time to nominate the volunteers, groups, and community champions who are making a real difference in Waterford. Let’s give them the recognition they deserve.

11th August 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Sail Training Ireland Waterford Bursary awards

Last week, the Sail Training Ireland Waterford Bursary awards ceremony was held in the Mayor’s Parlour.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan, presented the certificates to the participants of the 2025 Waterford Sail Training Ireland voyages.

The scheme, established by Sail Training Ireland in 2016 in partnership with @Port of Waterford and Waterford City and County Council, provides access to the life changing experience of a Sail Training voyage for young people from the Waterford region.

11th August 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Glas Awards Launched!

Local Enterprise Office, Waterford launches the 4th annual Glas Awards, promoting sustainability in business in Waterford.

The awards, in association with Waterford City and County Council aim to recognise and celebrate micro businesses in County Waterford who have made significant advances in bringing green principles into their day to day business activities.

Launched by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan, Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, Gareth Evans and Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, Gráinne Kennedy, these awards will showcase what Waterford business is doing to adopt sustainability policies, in a practical sense.

The awards are open to small and medium sized businesses based in Waterford County. The Green Micro Enterprise of the Year is open to all with employees of 10 or less, while the Green SME of the Year is open to those between 11 and 50 employees.

The mayor sees this as another step towards Waterford’s green targets, “The link between the Council and business in Waterford is so important. Last year, following a call by Waterford City and County Council, over 1,000 local businesses signed up to a Business Pledge for A Cleaner, Greener Waterford.

“The scheme, originally launched in 2022, has supported thousands of businesses across the city and county in transitioning to carbon neutrality by identifying opportunities for reducing energy usage and costs, exploring the potential of renewable energy while availing of a discount on their commercial rates.

“These awards are another opportunity to reward businesses for their climate actions.”

Each winner will receive a cash prize of €2,500 and a themed trophy.

Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford explains how these awards are just one element to their Green offering, “We find small changes can really make a big impact. Our clients understand the growing importance of sustainability, both in business and in the world around us. What we show them through our ‘Green for Business’ initiative is an understanding of the significant benefits that it can have for a business, on everything from efficiencies to cost savings.

“Green for Business is a FREE programme that helps small businesses take the first step towards becoming more sustainable, giving them access to a green consultant who’ll show them the small changes that can have a big impact on both their company.”

Gráinne Kennedy, Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, is optimistic for the future, “Waterford business is taking on the challenge of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in their operations, to make Waterford a sustainable place to work and do business.

“Waterford City and County Council adopted its Climate Action Plan in February 2024. The plan sets out how the Council will work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from our own operations and in the services that we provide to the people of Waterford. Climate will be a consideration in all Council projects going forward from looking at energy efficiency to reducing waste.

“Every aspect of the community has a role to play, and these awards are a great opportunity to showcase all that these businesses are doing”

The entry portal https://submit.link/3WK is now open on Waterford’s Local Enterprise Office website and remains so until 4th September 2025. The Glas Awards Final will be held in The Garden Room, Waterford Treasures on 8th October 2025 from 12.30 to 2.30pm.

For further information follow this link www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford, contact LEO Waterford at 051 849905 or email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie

31st July 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Tournore Court Residents Association Pride of Place Judging 2025

Tournore Court Residents Association Welcomes Pride of Place Adjudicators Following Prestigious Community Award Win

Waterford City & County Council was proud to host Tom & Alison Dowling, adjudicators for the 2025 Pride of Place Awards at Tournore Court, Dungarvan, where the Tournore Court Residents Association showcased their outstanding community initiatives.

The visit follows the Association’s recent triumph at the 20th Annual Waterford PPN Community & Voluntary Awards, where they were honoured with the Overall Award at a gala ceremony held in The Park Hotel, Dungarvan last November and the subsequent proud nomination by Waterford City & County Council to represent Waterford at the all island Pride of Place Awards.

During the adjudicators’ visit, members of the Residents Association highlighted a range of innovative and impactful projects, including the Beach Toy Library, Adopt a Verge Programme, Scare and Rewear Costume Swap Shop and the Party Kit initiative. These efforts reflect the group’s commitment to environmental stewardship, social inclusion, and fostering strong neighbourly connections.

The adjudicators were impressed with their visit and particularly enjoyed afternoon tea along with the residents who provided scrumptious sandwiches and home baking in the basking sunshine as the local children played around the green.

The Pride of Place Awards will be held in Limerick later this year and will celebrate excellence in community participation across the island of Ireland. Waterford City & County Council is proud to support Tournore Court Residents Association as they continue to lead by example with tremendous community spirit and initiative and wishes them the best of luck.

28th July 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Freya Marsh Honoured at City Hall Following World Title Win

Waterford’s rising MMA star Freya Marsh was honoured at a special mayoral reception in City Hall this week following her gold medal win at the IMMAF World Championships in Abu Dhabi.

Just 12 years old, Freya dominated the tournament, winning all her matches by submission, including a dramatic rematch in the final.

Her world title crowns an outstanding year that also saw her take gold at the European Championships in Serbia and Rome, along with a national boxing title with Tramore Boxing Club.

Freya was praised as a role model and an inspiration, with tributes paid to her clubs, coaches and family. Her story is also featured in the acclaimed documentary Freya: Beyond the Mat, produced by Junglehouse.

23rd July 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Mayoral Reception celebrates local theatre talent

Mayor of Waterford, Cllr. Séamus Ryan, welcomed a packed room to City Hall this week to celebrate the recent success of Up Down Boy at the News & Star Green Room Awards. A Mayoral Reception was held in honour of David Hennessy, Sean Upton and Brenda Giles for their roles in the acclaimed production.

The play received the award for Best Amateur Play, with David Hennessy named Best Director. Sean Upton was awarded Best Male Performance, while Brenda Giles took home Best Female Performance.

Speaking at the event, the Mayor praised the team’s achievement and their contribution to Waterford’s cultural life. “These awards reflect the talent, passion and hard work that went into Up Down Boy,” he said, acknowledging the impact of their work on stage and off.

Also present were family members, fellow cast and supporters from the local arts community.

Well done to all !

17th July 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Launch of Waterford Business Awards 2025

Waterford Business Awards entry opening soon

Entries are being accepted for the 2025 Waterford Business Awards from August 11th, with the gala awards ceremony taking place on November 14th in the Tower Hotel.

The awards are designed to recognize excellence in business across Waterford City & County and are organized by Waterford Chamber, in collaboration with Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber, with support from Waterford City & County Council and WLR.

Launching the awards, Waterford Chamber Deputy President, Eadaoin Carrick said, “The 2025 awards will honour the best and brightest who showcase Waterford as a great place to invest and do business locally, nationally, and internationally. We have introduced new categories for the 2025 awards and are confident there is something for everyone.

We are especially excited to add a new Think Waterford First award, which will recognise a local company who goes above and beyond to support and promote Waterford, from community input to driving the business agenda.

“We are appealing to businesses to take time now to record their achievements ahead of the August 11th opening date, so they can be ready to enter the awards and be proud and acknowledge their ongoing achievements.”

Oren Byrne, President, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber said: “We are encouraging all our members to consider entering the awards. It is a great opportunity to review your activity for the past year and acknowledge the successes along the way, while the awards night itself is a fantastic coming together of businesses in the city and county to network and do business.”

CEO of WLR, Michael Byrne added: “WLR is delighted to partner with Waterford Chamber, Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber, and with Waterford Council on the 2025 Business Awards initiative.  I think it’s more important than ever to recognise excellence in local business and industry and the awards are a very positive spotlight on the innovation and entrepreneurship we have in the City and County”.

The full list of categories is as follows:

Business of the Year (up to 20 based in the South East region)
Business of the Year (up to 100 based in the South East region)
Business of the Year (100+ based in the South East region)
Customer Service Excellence
Environmental & Sustainability
Retailer of the Year
Food, Beverage & Hospitality
Marketing Excellence
New Business of the Year
Excellence in Innovation
The Visit Waterford Award
Workplace Excellence
Entrepreneur of the Year
Special Recognition Award
Think Waterford First Award
Radio campaign of the Year
Overall Waterford Business of the Year

All businesses located in Waterford City and County are encouraged to enter, whether you are a Chamber member or not. You can enter the Waterford Business Awards through Waterford Chamber’s website www.waterfordchamber.ie

15th July 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Ted & Mary O’Regan 2025 Arts Bursary Awards

The 2025 Ted & Mary O’Regan Arts Bursaries were presented at a ceremony in Garter Lane Arts Centre this week. Adjudicated by external assessor Robert Browne, this year’s bursaries were awarded to visual artists Stephen Walsh and Molly Hennessy, filmmaker John Bermingham, and theatre artist Natasha Everitt.

Stephen Walsh’s bursary will support the creation of a book and accompanying exhibition, featuring original poetry and illustrations inspired by the birds of Ireland. Molly Hennessy, a recent graduate in Fine Art Painting from NCAD, will use her award to undertake a focused period of research and travel, culminating in a multimedia exhibition in both Waterford and Dublin during 2026/27.

Filmmaker John Bermingham’s award will enable him to take up a place on the two-year MSc in Computer Animation at Dundalk Institute of Technology.

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Waterford Panto Society kindly sponsored an additional Musical Theatre Bursary, which was awarded to theatre maker Emma Nathan. The bursary will support her upcoming production of The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals, to be staged in 2026 under her direction.

Now in its 21st year, the Ted & Mary O’Regan Arts Bursary was established by friends and colleagues to honour the couple’s lasting contribution to the artistic and cultural life of Waterford. The bursary is supported by Waterford City & County Council, Garter Lane Arts Centre, Spraoi, Theatre Royal, and Waterford Youth Arts, among others.

Speaking at the ceremony, Bursary Committee Chair Bertie Rogers thanked the sponsors for their continued support. To date, more than €135,000 has been awarded to over seventy-five Waterford-based practitioners across a wide range of disciplines. Mr. Rogers extended particular thanks to Waterford Panto Society for their generous donation and congratulated them on their milestone anniversary.

In a further boost to the Bursary Fund, Bowler Hat Theatre Company’s recent one-night performance of The Gods Are Angry Miss Kerr by Jim Nolan at the Theatre Royal raised €2,500. These proceeds will go towards the establishment of a new one-off fund in 2026 to support an emerging young Waterford writer.

ENDS

Photos: John Power

Captions

1. Attending were Natasha Everitt and playwright Jim Nolan.

2. Attending were Zoe, Wayne and Anne Brown.

3. This year, an additional Musical Theatre Bursary, kindly sponsored by Waterford Panto Society to mark its 40th Anniversary, was presented to theatre maker, Emma Nathan. This
award will assist with costs for a production of The Guy Who Didn’t like Musicals, to be produced and directed by Emma in 2026. Pictured is Anne Brown, Waterford Panto Society presenting Emma Nathan with her Bursary. Included are Bertie Rogers, Chair and Pauline Kennedy O’Regan and a group of Emma’s friends.

18th June 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Joyful Graduation Celebration at St. Joseph’s Special School

There were smiles, proud moments, and a few happy tears as students from St. Joseph’s Special School in Waterford celebrated their graduation this week.

The ceremony was a heartwarming and joyful occasion, filled with laughter, music, and well-earned applause. The Metropolitan Mayor of Waterford, Cllr. Joe Kelly joined the celebrations, presenting certificates and praising the Class of 2025 for their courage, kindness, and achievements.

“You are bright, you are brave, and you are brilliant,” he told the graduates, as each student received their certificate with pride.

There were warm words too for parents, guardians, and families – recognising the love, strength and support they give every day – and for the school’s amazing staff who create a place not just of learning, but of belonging.

To all the graduates – Congratulations!

17th June 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford regains Ireland’s Cleanest City Title

Viking Triangle / Museum Quarter which received Grade A, “The lovely planted/paved areas looked very well and there was a very eye-catching sculpture outside the Museum of Time. There was a complete absence of litter throughout this extensive area.”

Once again Waterford has emerged as Ireland’s Cleanest City in the Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) Anti-Litter League. The city ranked 8^th out of 40 cities and towns and was classed as Cleaner than European norms.

Waterford City continues to score very well in the IBAL anti-litter league, and according to the latest survey, “Waterford City has retained its high-ranking position and was again Ireland’s cleanest city. With so many top-ranking sites, it’s not possible to mention them all, but some stand out for various reasons.”

Most of the sites surveyed received a Grade A ranking and these, amongst others, included the Greenway Car Park, Waterford Retail Park, Plunkett Train Station, Waterford Courthouse, the Tramore Approach Road and City Square Shopping Centre.

The Mall, also receiving a Grade A ranking was noted as having, “Plenty of signage indicates the historic nature and significant of many of the buildings along The Mall. There was no litter associated with the large building which was covered in scaffolding. All aspects of The Mall were in excellent order, not just very good with regards to litter but the overall presentation and maintenance of same e.g. visitor information signage/ 3D models/seating etc. and the recent restoration of ‘O’Sullivan’s’ is a wonderful addition to the area.”

The Quays Riverwalk from The Tower Hotel to the Bridge, was also graded A, with the report stating, “some of which has been boarded up for the extensive works taking place along the river. Excellent visitor information signage close to Reginald’s Tower. Large planter boxes looked very well, and the William Vincent Wallace Plaza was spotless. There was a virtual absence of litter along the remainder of the length of the riverwalk.”

The report also cited, “There was only one heavily littered site – the Bring Bank at Tesco Ardkeen. Improvements were noted at ‘Woodpecker’ site, Apple Market Car Park and Site beside Vee Car Park.”

Ballybeg once again recorded a solid result, and despite a slight dip on previous years was classed as Clean to European norms. The report stated, “There were no litter blackspots. The residential area of Ardmore Terrace and Ballybeg Stores & Environs were much improved compared to previous IBAL surveys, just missing the top litter grade this time around.” However, it was noted that the Ballybeg Bring Bank was not just littered but “dumped upon.”

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy welcomed the IBAL league results, saying, “This is another great result for Waterford City and for Ballybeg. Consistently, the city has performed outstandingly well in the IBAL Anti-Litter League.

“These results aren’t achieved by chance. It takes a dedicated Local Authority cleansing team, in tandem with an army of volunteer clean up groups, residents’ associations and community and business groups, who have the utmost pride in where they live and work.”

Ella Ryan, Environmental Awareness Officer with Waterford City and County Council added, “I would like to acknowledge the work of Waterford City and County Council, the numerous volunteer clean-up groups and the local communities for their consistent hard work which year in, year out, never fails to deliver for Waterford City.

“This collaborative approach is clearly working as Waterford has upped its ranking and attained Cleaner than European norms classification – a first for the city.”

Details of the most recent Irish Business against Litter Survey can be found at https://ibal.ie/anti-litter-league/

9th June 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

2025 Waterford Digital Awards Overall Winner

Antiques Ireland 2025 Waterford Digital Awards Overall Winner Waterford Local Enterprise Office, together with Waterford City and County Council, are pleased to announce Antiques Ireland as their 2025 Waterford Digital Awards Overall Winner.

The awards recognise and reward SMEs based in Waterford who have developed their ecommerce and digital platforms as part of their product offering. The Awards were open to all businesses with less than 50 full time employees.

Presenting the awards, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy was impressed with the development of Waterford’s digital footprint, “Digital marketing has empowered local businesses here in Waterford. From artisan food producers reaching new markets via Instagram, to tourism campaigns using immersive video to draw global eyes to our beautiful coastlines and historic streets. Digital tools have allowed our community to connect with the world in a faster and smarter way, and more authentically than ever before.”

Antiques Ireland was first established in Kilmacthomas, County Waterford in 1949 by the late Patrick Keighery as RJK Antiques. Rody Keighery, his son, took over the business in the 1980s and created this renowned antiques shop and auction room with his wife Anne. The business has built a solid reputation, both locally and nationally, based on expertise, experience and integrity. In recent years Rody’s son, Thomas, has joined the business and added digital platforms to the promotion and execution of browsing and buying the Antiques Ireland collections.

ENDS