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Visit Waterford launches folklore initiative for local schools

🌟 Exciting News for Waterford Schools! 🌟

Visit Waterford has unveiled an exciting new folklore initiative as part of its 2025 campaign, aiming to collaborate with primary and secondary schools throughout Waterford City and County. This project invites students to delve into the myths, legends, and rich traditions of their local areas. Through research, interviews, and creative writing, participants will explore and document the storytelling heritage of Waterford, uncovering tales passed down through generations.

Selected stories will be featured in a published folklore e-book on the Visit Waterford website and showcased during a special Culture Night event in September 2025. This initiative offers students a unique opportunity to connect with their local culture, foster community pride, and become young custodians of Waterford’s folklore legacy.

Schools interested in participating are encouraged to contact Clare at clare@visitwaterford.com for more information.

Uisce Éireann progressing plans for new reservoir to ensure a more reliable water supply for Lismore

Uisce Éireann continues to make progress in addressing water supply challenges for the town of Lismore. The community have been updated on plans to build a new reservoir as well as progress in reducing leakage across the town. This is all part of Uisce Éireann’s long-term plans to address challenges and ensure a more reliable and resilient water supply for Lismore homes and businesses.

Jim Fitzgerald, Regional Operations Senior Manager for Water at Uisce Éireann, explained, “We will be building a new reservoir which will provide backup water storage to the town. Additional land is required to build a new treated water storage reservoir, which we are progressing. Specialised leakage crews have been dispatched to Lismore to support local crews and intensify efforts to find and fix leaks. Reducing leakage and fixing issues identified in the pipe network will benefit everyone through increased water pressure. Steady progress has been made to fix leaks, with the rate already decreased from 46% to 32% since January. 15 leaks have been identified on the public network and repaired. There have also been 17 leaks identified on private properties where we have been engaging directly with landowners to ensure repairs are completed. Further investigation works are scheduled in the coming weeks.”.

Uisce Éireann welcomed the opportunity to meet with the local community and stakeholders in Lismore this week at a briefing chaired by Minister for State at the Department of Housing and Local Government and Heritage, John Cummins. It was a valuable opportunity to discuss the challenges and reaffirm our commitment to investing in the upgrade of water infrastructure, ensuring a more reliable water supply for the community.

Jim Fitzgerald, who met with the local community, continued, “We accept that operational issues at the water treatment plant and challenges on the network have caused ongoing disruption for the local community. Providing a robust, resilient, and safe water supply to the local community of Lismore remains a top priority for Uisce Éireann. We ask for continued patience and support while resolving the issues”.

Uisce Éireann remains committed to keeping the local community and stakeholders informed as a programme of work continues.

Uisce Éireann has launched a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at www.water.ie

Uisce Éireann is responsible for delivering public drinking water and wastewater services for the people of Ireland. We are committed to enabling communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure to support sustainable growth and development, providing safe drinking water, and enhancing the environment.

Scoláireachtaí Gaeltachta – Gaeltacht Scholarships 2025

Scholarships 2025

Is féidir iarratas a chur isteach anois do Scoláireachtaí Gaeltachta Chomhairle Cathrach & Contae Phort Láirge do Shamhraidh 2025. Is féidir an fhoirm iarratais a fháil ag https://bit.ly/Scoláireachtaí-Gaeltachta-2025.

Applications are now invited for Waterford City & County Council’s Gaeltacht Scholarships for Summer 2025. You can access the application form at https://bit.ly/Scoláireachtaí-Gaeltachta-2025.

The word ‘blaa’ has been added to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED)

The word ‘blaa’ has been added to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), with the official definition of the word according to the OED being, “A soft white bread roll dusted with flour, particularly associated with Waterford, Ireland.”

Made from flour, salt, yeast and water, the blaa was introduced to Waterford by the Huguenots in the 17th century, and has a unique floury white top to protect it during baking.

Awarded Protected Geographic Indication (PGI) status by the European Commission in 2013, only blaas made by specialist bakers in a Waterford city and county can be called blaas!

Reminder: Connecting Communities Roadshow this evening in Tramore

Connecting Communities Roadshow Comes to Tramore
We all want the best for our communities—but where do we start?

Join the Connecting Communities Roadshow to learn about the wide range of supports available to help local community groups and volunteers make a real impact. Whether you’re looking to start a community initiative, strengthen an existing group, or find funding opportunities, this event is packed with valuable insights.

📅 Date: Wednesday, 27th March
🕕 Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Tramore GAA Community Hub

This is a fantastic opportunity to meet local organizations, discover funding sources, and connect with others who share a passion for making a difference. Don’t miss out—come along and be part of the conversation that shapes your community!

Waterford Educate Together National School launches successful Walking Bus Initiative

Waterford Educate Together National School Launches Successful Walking Bus Initiative
Waterford Educate Together National School (ETNS) in Carrickphierish, Waterford City has proudly launched its first-ever walking bus, following recent improvements made under the Active Travel Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Programme.

On Wednesday 5th March 2025, the school kicked off this exciting initiative with great success. The walking bus was supported by Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Sports Partnership, as well as the school’s dedicated parents and staff.

A walking bus consists of a group of children walking to school under the supervision of responsible adults. The route includes several stops, where children can join the walking bus along the way. Schools have the flexibility to schedule their walking bus on a designated day each week or month.

The walking bus initiative brings numerous benefits, including promoting healthy, active travel habits among children, fostering road safety awareness, and boosting children’s focus throughout the school day.

The event marked a significant milestone in the school’s commitment to encouraging sustainable, active commuting and fostering a safer, healthier environment for its pupils.

On the day, Principal at Waterford Educate Together National School, Patrick Pender, said: “We had lots of children and parents take part in our first walking bus, and it was great to have the support of Waterford Sports Partnership and Waterford City and County Council in getting this initiative started. It really is a fantastic initiative. Thanks to everyone involved for their support.”

Dylan White, Active Travel Communications and Behavioural Change Officer at Waterford City and County Council, said: “It is wonderful to see the walking bus initiative get underway at Waterford Educate Together National School. By starting a walking bus, schools not only help reduce traffic and emissions but also provide children with a refreshing start to their day. The children arrive at school feeling energised and ready to learn, having had an enjoyable walk to school with their friends.”

Active Cities Officer at Waterford Sports Partnership, Lauren Walsh Kett, said: “It’s great for the children to be able to build in a little bit of physical activity into their day before they start school.”

 If you would like advice on starting a walking bus, contact the Active Travel team at activetravel@waterfordcouncil.ie.

ENDS

Connecting Communities Roadshow comes to Tramore

Connecting Communities Roadshow Comes to Tramore
We all want the best for our communities—but where do we start?

Join the Connecting Communities Roadshow to learn about the wide range of supports available to help local community groups and volunteers make a real impact. Whether you’re looking to start a community initiative, strengthen an existing group, or find funding opportunities, this event is packed with valuable insights.

📅 Date: Wednesday, 27th March
🕕 Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Tramore GAA Community Hub

This is a fantastic opportunity to meet local organizations, discover funding sources, and connect with others who share a passion for making a difference. Don’t miss out—come along and be part of the conversation that shapes your community!

Public Consultation – Inclusive Play Space at Abbeyside, Dungarvan

Waterford City & County Council plans to develop an Inclusive Play Space at Abbeyside, Dungarvan. The project will include a new play area within the existing amenity space, designed to be accessible to all. Perimeter planting will create a green framework to integrate the development into the surrounding landscape.

Pedestrian pathways will provide connections to the existing boardwalk and Friar’s Walk/Strandside footpath, ensuring easy access. The plans also include seating, signage, and bicycle parking to enhance the space for public use.

Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed development, dealing with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development would be situated, may be made:

  • In writing to the Director of Services Roads, Water & Environment,  Waterford City & County Council, Menapia Building,  The Mall, Waterford. (Submissions should be clearly marked Inclusive Play Space at Abbeyside, Dungarvan)
  • By email to Envsubmissions@waterfordcouncil.ie
  • Online

All submissions to be received on or before 4pm on the 7th of May 2025

Drainage and road works to commence on Waterford South Quays

Waterford City and County Council and BAM wish to advise that drainage and roadworks will take place on Meagher’s Quay and Coal Quay, as part of the new South Plaza public realm development. 

From Wednesday March 19th traffic management measures will be implemented to facilitate these works, predominantly located east and west of the Clock Tower.

Traffic management is being planned to reduce disruptions where possible and ensure safety for road users and site staff while also progressing the work in a timely manner.

The works will be completed in multiple phases between March 19th and June 2025.  Various phases will require the temporary closure of footpaths, cycle lanes, pedestrian crossings and single traffic lanes as well as the relocation of bus stops. The works will also require the temporary closure of some off-street and on-street parking spaces and there will be an impact on traffic, particularly at peak hours.

Emergency services, local businesses and stakeholders have been consulted in relation to the proposed works and associated traffic management measures.

The public is advised to adhere to all local traffic management and follow directional signage for the duration of the works.

Waterford City and County Council and BAM apologise for any inconvenience caused and seek the understanding and co-operation of the public during the course of these works.

Join Our Team: Job Opportunities with Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City & County Council is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for our community through exceptional public service. We are currently seeking motivated professionals to join the Council in the following jobs:

1. Seasonal Traffic Warden – Tramore

  • Role Overview: Manage traffic flow and ensure parking regulations are adhered to in Tramore during peak seasons.
  • Application Deadline: Thursday 3rd April, 4pm

2. Senior Executive Engineer (Fixed Term Temporary Contract Posts)

  • Role Overview: Lead engineering projects, oversee infrastructure development, and ensure compliance with safety standards.
  • Application Deadline: Thursday 3rd April, 4pm

3. Beach Lifeguard and Senior Beach Lifeguard – Summer Season

  • Role Overview: Ensure the safety of beachgoers by monitoring beach activities and providing emergency response when necessary.
  • Application Deadline: Thursday 13th March, 4pm

4. Temporary Seasonal Staff (Machinery Yard, Dungarvan)

  • Role Overview: Assist with the maintenance and operation of machinery and equipment to support council services.
  • Application Deadline: Friday 14th March, 1pm

5. I.S. Technical Support Officer (Analogous To Grade 5)

  • Role Overview: Work in the IT department and provide technical support for systems, ensuring optimal performance and user assistance.
  • Application Deadline: Thursday 20th March, 4pm

6. Staff Officer (Library Services) (Grade 5)

  • Role Overview: Support library operations, manage resources, and enhance community engagement through library programs.
  • Application Deadline: Thursday 20th March, 4pm​

7. Staff Officer (Grade 5)

  • Role Overview: Oversee administrative functions, coordinate departmental activities, and ensure efficient service delivery.
  • Application Deadline: Please refer to the official website for specific dates.

8. Retained Firefighters – Cappoquin, Ardmore, Kilmacthomas, Portlaw, Dunmore East

  • Role Overview: Provide emergency response services, including firefighting and rescue operations, on an on-call basis.
  • Application Deadline: Rolling Call

Why Join Us?

Working with Waterford City & County Council offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development and well-being of our community. We value innovation, dedication, and a commitment to public service.

Application Process

APPLY HERE

Interested candidates are encouraged to visit our website to access detailed job descriptions and application forms. Please ensure that applications are submitted by the specified deadlines.Join us in making a positive impact on Waterford’s future.

Waterford City & County Council is an equal opportunities employer.

Public Consultation: Draft Litter Management Plan 2025 – 2028

Waterford City & County Council is committed to keeping our streets, parks, and communities clean – but we need your input!

The Draft Litter Management Plan 2025 – 2028 is now open for public consultation, and this is your opportunity to shape how we tackle litter and waste in Waterford. Whether it’s improving bin facilities, addressing illegal dumping, or promoting waste reduction, we want to hear your views.

The draft plan is available online at consult.waterfordcouncil.ie, where you can also make a submission.

How to Submit Your Feedback

🖥 Online: consult.waterfordcouncil.ie (Preferred)
📩 Email: envsubmissions@waterfordcouncil.ie
📮 Post: Environment Dept., Waterford City & County Council, City Hall, The Mall, Waterford
🗓 Deadline: 4:00 PM on April 30, 2025

Extended Deadline for Beach Lifeguard Applications – Apply by March 13th

Summer Lifeguards positionsLooking for a rewarding summer job ?

Waterford City & County Council has extended the deadline for applications for Beach Lifeguards and Senior Beach Lifeguards for the upcoming summer season.

The new closing date is Thursday, 13th March at 4:00 PM – giving you extra time to apply for this important role in keeping Waterford’s beaches safe.

If you’re a strong swimmer with a passion for water safety, this is your chance to join the team. For full details and to apply online, visit: Waterford Council Vacancies.

Don’t miss out – apply today! 🌊🏖️🚩

Housing Applicants : Have You Changed Address ?

Have you changed address recently ?If you are an approved housing applicant with Waterford City & County Council, you must inform the Housing Applications team in the Council if you change address. Failure to inform the Housing Applications team of a change of address will result in removal from the social housing list.

Send current proof of your new address, utility bill, lease or rental statement to Housing Applications, Baileys New Street, Waterford or scan to housingapplications@waterfordcouncil.ie with your contact details.

To be considered for an allocation with Waterford City & County Council please engage with Choice Based Lettings (CBL) via www.waterfordcouncil.ie and make an expression of interest.