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Ministerial Visit

By Waterford City & County Council

‘Consent Matters’ project launched by Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration

Consent Matters, a collaborative Waterford Local Community Safety Partnership (WLCSP) and South East Technological University (SETU) project was officially launched by Jim O’ Callaghan TD Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration on Monday 22nd September 2025 in the historical surrounding of Waterford’s Medieval Museum.  

In 2023, WLCSP with SETU applied for Community Safety Funding (CSF), in response to issues raised from the communities across the county, in relation to increasing sexual assaults and domestic violence issues.

The application supported by Garda statistics was successful in funding of €150,000 by the Department of Justice Community CSF. The CSF allows proceeds of crime to be directed into projects to support communities, ensuring they benefit from the success of An Garda Síochána and the Criminal Assets Bureau in seizing the proceeds from criminal activity.

Deputy Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. John Pratt welcomed the Minister and stated, “Conversations about consent are not always easy however, they are vital. For our students and young adults, who are finding their voice, their independence, and their place in the world, this project will provide the tools, the language, and the confidence to make informed decisions and to look out for each other.

“As Deputy Mayor, I take pride in the fact that Waterford City and County Council and SETU are stepping forward and taking the lead on this. We want our young people to grow up in an environment where respect is expected, where safety is assured, and where their voices are heard.”

Addressing the large gathering at the Medieval Museum, Minister O’Callaghan said, “To create safe communities, we must work together in partnership. It is only by working collaboratively that important, impactful initiatives such as the Consent Matters project come to fruition.

“As part of our zero-tolerance approach to domestic, sexual and gender based violence the government is committed to supporting the rollout of active consent workshops across the country. Education of this type is vital in promoting a safer society.

“The Community Safety Fund, now in its fourth year, continues to reinvest money seized from criminal networks to enhance public safety, wellbeing and opportunity in communities across the country.”

Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU said, “Today marks a milestone in collaboration, research and action with the launch of the Consent Matters Project.

“Rooted in the belief that meaningful and lasting change requires working together, the initiative draws educators, statutory bodies, community groups, and local stakeholders together to raise awareness, educate and foster a safe, respectful, and supportive consent culture across Waterford and the south east region.

“This project builds on SETU’s research and training expertise and also incorporates the statutory and community expertise of the Waterford Local Community Safety Partnership and Purple Flag partners.

“Crucially, this is not a one-size-fits-all programme. We all have a part to play in tackling sexual violence and harassment in our communities, and I am proud that SETU, along with Waterford Local Community Safety Partnership, are rising to that challenge,” commented Prof. Campbell.

The Consent Matters Project is an innovative collaborative initiative to tackle Sexual Violence and Harassment (SVH) involving educational, statutory and community stakeholders throughout Waterford City and County.

The aim of this collaborative initiative of WLCSP and SETU is to raise awareness, educate key target community groups across Waterford and to create a safe, respectful, positive and supportive culture in the community, whilst attempting to reduce assaults. This initiative draws upon the research, experience and training already established in SETU combined with the statutory and community experiences of WLCSP Partners, including the Purple Flag Initiative.

The Consent Matters Project is an exciting collaborative initiative to foster a culture of safety, respect, and informed decision-making among students and young adults in Waterford City and County.  It is a bespoke programme to tackle SVH and has involved research, design, and development.

The launch by the Minister of the programme roll out across Waterford City and County will increase awareness and knowledge of the key concepts of consent in the context of tackling SVH.

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Images:  Noel Browne

By Waterford City & County Council

Contract signing for remediation works and upgrade of Rice Bridge

On Friday, June 13th, Waterford City and County Council and Fluidpower Group Services UK Ltd, t/a FlowTech, entered into a contract for remediation works and upgrade of mechanical and electrical systems of Rice Bridge.

The contracts were signed in the Mayor’s Parlour in City Hall in the presence of Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy, Mary Butler TD, Government Chief Whip and Minister of State for Mental Health, and John Cummins TD, Minister of State for Local Government and Planning.

The Edmund Rice Bridge in Waterford City, commonly known as Rice Bridge, was opened in 1984. A vital piece of infrastructure and a symbolic landmark in Waterford, Rice Bridge not only supports modern transportation but also pays tribute to one of Waterford’s most influential historical figures: Edmund Ignatius Rice, founder of the Christian Brothers and a pioneer in Catholic education.

Carrying thousands of vehicles daily, Rice Bridge is a key component of the city’s transport network. Its strategic location near the city centre makes it essential for local commerce, emergency services, and public transport.

Over the past four decades, significant technological advancements have rendered many of the electrical components required to operate the opening span obsolete. In 2018, Waterford City and County Council engaged the consultancy firm Mott MacDonald to conduct a full assessment of Rice Bridge under the Regional Roads Rehabilitation Programme.

The report concluded that the mechanical and electrical systems were outdated, with many components no longer available for direct replacement. It identified the need to upgrade most of the electrical systems and some mechanical elements.

In 2021, Waterford City and County Council applied to the Department of Transport for multi-annual funding under the Specific Improvement Grant scheme to support the necessary upgrades.

Roughan & O’Donovan (ROD) with a head office in Dublin and extensive experience in bridge design, were appointed as the engineering consultants to design the upgrade works.  Sub consultant Hardesty & Hanover, an American based company with extensive experience in movable bridges, worked with ROD to prepare the optimum design for the bridge.

Speaking at the contract signing, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy said, “This is a hugely positive step in the upgrade of Rice Bridge, which has served Waterford well for over 40 years as the main thoroughfare from the city to Ferrybank and beyond.

“Investment in Rice Bridge will only serve to further improve logistical and structural integrity and allow Rice Bridge to operate as efficiently as possible into the future.”

The proposed scheme includes upgrades to the bridge’s MEICA (Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Control, and Automation) systems, specifically:

  • Remediation and/or replacement of the mechanical, electrical, and control equipment associated with the opening span.
  • Works on utilities and services running through the bridge’s plant rooms.
  • Installation of a new access hatch to the plant room.

The contract was tendered in late 2024 and the successful contractor was Flowtech, a UK based specialist in bridge engineering, with sub offices in Ireland.  The overall value of the contract is €4,467,750 ex VAT. The works contact is for 15 months with a further 1-year period for completion of snags.

The work is being funded on a multi-annual basis – with an allocation of €1,500,000 in 2025 – under the Strategic Grant category for local and regional roads with the specific objective of funding fund a variety of projects, including bridge repairs, junction reconfigurations and initiatives to reduce traffic congestion in towns.

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By Waterford City & County Council

Minister for Housing views North Quays Public Infrastructure Project progress

On Friday, May 23rd, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD visited Waterford to view progress on the North Quay Public Infrastructure Project.

Joined by Minister of State with responsibility for Planning and Local Government, John Cummins TD and Government Chief Whip Minister Mary Butler TD, they visited the South Quays Plaza site for an update on the project which is supported by over €170m in Government funding, €100.6m from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage’s Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) and €70m from the National Transport Authority.

Minister Browne said, “This is a landmark day for the Waterford North Quays Project marking a crucial step in making the development a reality.

“The sustainable transport bridge will also act as a catalyst for the wider project and the SDZ development which will have a powerful impact on economic development across Waterford and the South-East.

“The first phase of the SDZ – which will deliver 350 new homes, a 160-bedroom hotel, retail units, public plazas and a riverside walk – is due to commence later this year.”

Minister of State with responsibility for Planning and Local Government John Cummins added, “This is a momentous day for Waterford and the wider region. Waterford City and County Council deserves great credit for embracing the URDF’s potential to reimagine the North Quays as a dynamic and vibrant area, specifically designed to re-establish strong connections between the city centre and both its northern and southern banks.

“This project is a key element of the Council’s comprehensive development plan for the area, enabling the development of commercial and residential land on the City’s North Quays with direct and sustainable access to the city centre.”

Sean McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council said, “This has been a momentous week for Waterford. To watch the giant floating sheerleg HEBO crane lift and fit these spans is a feat of engineering precision on a significant scale, that one can’t fail to be impressed by.

“The installation of the steel deck superstructure has created a buzz of anticipation about what this project can truly deliver for Waterford and the wider region.

“In tandem, the transport hub is progressing very well, with works to the platforms and rail track continuing and internal building fit out and external public entrance plaza at Dock Road due to commence in the coming months, while works in Ferrybank with the realigned Abbey Road and Dock Road are due to be complete in July and October respectively.”

The fast-tracking of integration works as part of construction of the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) will facilitate the opening of the bridge to the public in Q4 2026

The SDZ development places a significant emphasis on connecting the north and south quays and improving the public realm through investment in new high quality civic spaces. The direct benefit to Waterford of the investment in the SDZ Site is anticipated to be in excess of €350m over the next six years, with 200 people employed during construction and upwards of 1,500 jobs to be created following completion of phase one of the development.

By Waterford City & County Council

Southern Regional Assembly commemorates a decade of regional leadership

On Friday, May 9th the Southern Regional Assembly commemorated a decade of regional leadership and European collaboration with a series of events, to mark Europe Day and ten years since the Assembly’s establishment.

At the heart of the celebrations was the official launch of the Assembly’s Corporate Plan 2024–2029, a forward-looking strategy that outlines the Assembly’s vision for the Southern Region over the next five years.

John Cummins, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, addressed the elected Members of the Assembly at their monthly meeting. As a Waterford native, he reflected on the Assembly’s role in shaping balanced regional growth and Ireland’s deep connection with the European Union.

As part of the celebrations Minister Cummins visited Tír na nÓg @ Lady Lane, a European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) project site where refurbishment works have begun. Waterford City and County Council was awarded €7 million for the redevelopment of the site into a visitors attraction through the ERDF Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme which is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister of State makes return to his native Waterford

Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, John Cummins TD paid a visit to his home city of Waterford last week (Friday, February 21st) where he met with Waterford City and County Council management team and visited an affordable housing development in Tramore.

First port of call was City Hall where Minister Cummins met with Waterford City and County Council Chief Executive, Sean McKeown and members of the senior management team, where he was updated on a range of topical issues including the URDF (Urban Regeneration and Development Fund) projects in the city and county.

Some of the ongoing URDF projects include the North Quays Strategic Development Zone (SDZ); the redevelopment of the former Munster Express building on Merchant’s Quay into a smart data research hub; Parade Quay, a mixed-use development and new urban realm space in the Viking Triangle, and the large-scale redevelopment of the historic city centre building at No.3 & No. 4 George’s Street.

There was also discussion on planning matters, social and affordable housing projects, including cost rental.

The Minister then travelled to Tramore where he officially turned the sod on The Courtyard at Ballycarnane, the latest affordable housing development in the seaside town.  The scheme when completed will consist of 25 newly built and beautifully designed homes, with a mix of two- and three-bedroom terrace and semi-detached properties. The Courtyard is the latest development launched under the Affordable Purchase Scheme, in partnership with Waterford City and County Council and developers, R. McDonald & Sons.

Through the scheme, these homes are available at a reduced price for first-time buyers whose mortgage and deposit will not cover the price of the home and who are seeking to purchase a newly built home.  The scheme was introduced in 2024 and will be completed by the end of 2025.

Speaking of the visit, Minister Cummins said, “I was delighted to visit Waterford City and County Council on Friday in my capacity as Minister of State at the Department of Housing. My meeting with members of the senior management team focused on the future of Waterford city and county, particularly a number of projects that we will work hard to progress. As part of my visit, it was an honour to turn the sod on the latest affordable purchase development in Tramore, the Courtyard, Ballycarnane which is being delivered by Waterford City & County Council with the support of the Affordable Housing Fund.”

“I want to commend all involved at Waterford City and County Council and at R. McDonald & Sons in delivering these exceptional, well-designed, modern, energy efficient homes beautifully located here in the sunny southeast. This government is committed to providing more housing solutions for people.  This visit and the interest around this development displays the scheme is working to help get people on the housing ladder. I look forward to seeing these houses used in time to come and I will continue to work hard to offer more solutions like this.”

In welcoming Minister Cummins to City Hall, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy said, “We are delighted to welcome Minister Cummins to City Hall in his new role as Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.  John is no stranger to Waterford Council having served as a councillor for over eleven years and as a Senator for five years.”

“As a local authority that has been highlighted as an exemplar in housing provision, it was great to discuss the Council’s pipeline of housing initiatives, the regeneration of our towns and villages through URDF and RRDF (Rural Regeneration and Development Fund) and the progress on the North Quays.”

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Images (Free to Use); Noel Browne

1:  Minister Cummins TD is pictured with (l-r) Richard McDonald, R. McDonald & Sons, Government Chief Whip Mary Butler TD, Sean McKeown Waterford City & County Council Chief Executive, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy, and Senator Joe Conway.

4: Minister Cummins TD with Richard McDonald, R. McDonald & Sons and Walter Holden Senior Executive Architect, Waterford City & County Council.

8: Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, John Cummins TD turns the sod on The Courtyard development at Ballycarnane, Tramore with

Walter Holden, Senior Executive Architect Waterford City & County Council; Clodagh McDonald, Lawrence & McDonald Selling Agents;  Richard McDonald, R. McDonald & Sons;  Helena Dennehy, Director of Services Waterford City and County Council; Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Jason Murphy; Government Chief Whip Mary Butler TD, Sean McKeown Waterford City & County Council Chief Executive; Senator Joe Conway & Melanie Cunningham-Head, Waterford City and County Council.

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister for Transport visits North Quays site

On Friday, May 31st Minister for Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport, Eamon Ryan TD visited Waterford’s North Quays Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) site.

The public infrastructure works are funded with a public investment of €207m, including €100.6m of Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) funding and a further €70m from Minister Ryan’s Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA).

With works significantly advanced on the site, Minister Ryan viewed the progress on the public infrastructure works, including the multi-modal access routes, public transport hub and sustainable transport bridge.

The new state-of-the-art transport hub will be unique in Ireland and will put Waterford at the forefront of integrated and sustainable city centre transport infrastructure.

The sustainable transport bridge will link the reallocated train station to new walking and cycling infrastructure.  These works will reduce the reliance on private car and facilitate alternative modes of transport for those accessing the city centre through the delivery of enhanced and integrated sustainable and active travel infrastructure.

During his visit, Minister Ryan TD said, “I was in Waterford for the ground-breaking ceremony for the North Quays in March of last year.  The scale of the works and the progression of the project in such a short time is to be commended.

“This development, one of the largest of all 35 Pathfinder Projects to deliver sustainable mobility and public transport projects, is transformational for Waterford and the surrounding areas, fulfilling the vision of delivering a sustainable, attractive and liveable city that builds on Waterford’s reputation as the Best Place to Live.”

The infrastructure, along with the new foul and stormwater pumping stations in Ferrybank which was recently completed, will enable the commercial development on the SDZ Site by Harcourt Developments.  Plans include offices, residential, retail, accommodation, and tourism investment in conference/exhibition facilities, as well as a 4-star hotel and visitor centre. All of which will be developed to be sustainable, high-quality and climate resilient.

The Minister met with Michael Walsh, on the last day of his term as Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council, Paul Johnston Acting Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council, Grace O’Sullivan MEP, Oireachtas members Marc Ó Cathasaigh TD, Mary Butler TD and Senator John Cummins, along with Councillors Cristíona Kiely and Jody Power.

Welcoming the Minister, Michael Walsh said, “The progress of this publicly funded project is evident.  This development has sent a ripple of excitement through Waterford and the region.

“The end result will not only be transformative for Waterford and the region, but it will also give connectivity and balance to the city, as both sides of the river Suir will be optimised in terms of energy, community spirit and commercial activity.”

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360 NQ Video link –  https://youtu.be/bGAYQTHOxYc

Images – Free to use: Patrick Browne

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Higgins visits Local Enterprise office in Waterford

Minister of State for Employment Affairs and Retail Business, Emer Higgins T.D., visited the Waterford Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) last Thursday May 2nd.

This was the Minister’s first visit to a Local Enterprise Office. On arrival the Minister was greeted by Deputy Mayor, Declan Doocey, Head of Enterprise, Gareth Evans and Senior Enterprise Development Officer Jacqui Gaule. The Minister was then introduced to council officials and members of the LEO team as well as some of their client companies.

Minister Higgins said:

“I am delighted to visit the Waterford Local Enterprise Office and meet with the LEO teams and their clients. This is my first opportunity to visit a Local Enterprise Office as Minister for State and it is a pleasure to see the hard work that is happening on the ground and to see first hand the work the LEOs and the Department are doing to support these businesses.”

The Minister was then introduced to LEO clients who were invited in to showcase their businesses. Mark Bergin of Coffeehouse Lane explained how they sell their own artisan manufactured, ethically sourced premium hand-roasted coffee through independent retail stores, the food service sector and SuperValu. Coffeehouse Lane were the winners of a Waterford Glas Awards in 2023.

Minister Higgins then met Stephanie Wickham of ExPat Ltd., who specialise in international tax advice across multiple jurisdictions. ExPat Taxes were the overall winner of the LEO Waterford Digital Awards in 2023 and will represent Waterford at this year’s National Enterprise Awards which are taking place in the Mansion House later this month.

The Minister was introduced to silversmith Gene O’Shea who specialises in quality, handmade pure silver jewellery.  Each piece is designed and created by Gene and is hallmarked at Dublin Castle.  Minister Higgins then spoke with Tony Hayes of the Irish Handmade Glass Company. They specialise in coloured, mouth blown and hand-cut crystal and their products range from tableware to lighting and decorative ornaments to jewellery.  They also work with leading companies designing corporate awards and gifts for events.

The Minister met with Keith Molloy of Molloy’s Butchers Ardkeen, also a winner at the 2023 Waterford Glas Awards. The company deliver produce in reusable crates with no single use cardboard or plastics accepted with all packaging either 100% home compostable or infinitely recyclable. Molloy’s encourage their customers to bring their own reusable containers and offer an incentive of 25% off to encourage this practice.

Minister Higgins then spoke with Dermot Harrington and Ken O’Shea of Reso Health.  The company are developing a platform to provide precision nutrition for professionals in the workplace.  This platform will combine an onsite dispenser with an employee-controlled app to deliver a range of nutritional supplements targeted specifically to the user.

The Minister finished her visit with a short walk to Strong Roots Jewellery where she met owner Michelle Dunne, an artist and metalworker who creates bespoke jewellery. Using the Celtic Tree Calendar as her inspiration her jewellery is based on the strong roots that shape us, nature, family, friends and hobbies.

On the conclusion of her visit, Minister Higgins said:

“The hard work of the LEO office here in the Waterford can be seen in every business I have met today. It is fantastic to see that the strategy of my Department and the LEO Network has helped create an environment in which these business can thrive.”

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister for Public Expenditure visits North Quays site

On Thursday February 29th, Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform, Paschal Donohoe TD visited the North Quays Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) site.

Almost a year to the day since ground was broken on the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD, works have advanced significantly on this flagship urban regeneration project and are on schedule, delivering one of the largest ever investments in Waterford and the southeast region.

The public infrastructure works are funded with a public investment of €207m, including €100.6m of Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) funding and a further €70m from the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA).

The works include enhanced multi-modal access routes, a public transport hub including the relocation of Waterford train station to the North Quays, and a sustainable transport bridge.

The sustainable transport bridge will link the reallocated train station to new walking and cycling infrastructure.  These works will reduce the reliance on private car and facilitate alternative modes of transport for those accessing the city centre through the delivery of enhanced and integrated sustainable and active travel infrastructure.

Separate contracts for new foul and stormwater pumping stations in Ferrybank will be completed in May 2024.

During his visit, Minister Donohoe TD said, “Works have advanced significantly on this flagship project, which I was delighted to visit.  It is so encouraging to see the National Development Plan come to life through projects such as the North Quays and to see the progress that is being made on its delivery, first-hand. This project will be transformative for Waterford City, opening up the north side of the city for the benefit of the people of southeast.

“The development, which will not only deliver improved, high-quality transport infrastructure, as well as pedestrian and cycling facilities, making it easier to navigate the city, but will also include office space, residential, retail, and hotel accommodation. Sustainable, urban regeneration opens up cities in the most positive way, providing immense opportunities and possibilities to those who live there.

“This project, which is one of the largest ever investments in Waterford and the southeast region, will change the way people view the city, travel around it, live in it and make the very most of it. I look forward to continued updates on project delivery and to seeing the difference it will make to the people of Waterford, and the surrounding region, in the years ahead.”

The infrastructure will enable the commercial development on the SDZ Site by Harcourt Developments, which will include offices, residential, retail, accommodation, and tourism investment in conference/exhibition facilities, as well as a 4-star hotel and visitor’s centre. All of which will be developed to be sustainable, high-quality and climate resilient.

The development places a significant emphasis on improving the public realm through investment in new civic spaces, high-quality transport infrastructure and pedestrian and cycling facilities which will connect Waterford City Centre and the Southeast greenways.

Waterford’s new state of the art Transport Hub will be unique in Ireland and will put Waterford at the forefront of integrated and sustainable city centre transport infrastructure.

Michael Walsh, Chief Executive Waterford City and County Council said, “The progress to date on this publicly funded project must be commended.  The transformative effects for Waterford and the region will soon be apparent as, upon completion, this development will not only increase employment and provide much needed high-quality residential units, but it will also enhance our retail, tourism and cultural offering and reinforce Waterford’s reputation as the Best Place to Live in Ireland.”

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By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Darragh O’Brien officially opens Ireland’s newest Museum ‘The Irish Wake Museum’ in Waterford

The oldest urban domestic building in Ireland is now home to Ireland’s newest museum which traces the customs, traditions and superstitions associated with death from the earliest times to the 20th century.

The Irish Wake Museum is officially opened today by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien TD.

The Irish Wake Museum located at what was the former Dean John Collyn’s Almshouse, a Retirement Home for old people, called  ‘God’s People’s House’ was founded in 1478 on All Souls Day, 2nd November, the Day of the Dead. The occupants of the former Alms Houses paid for their keep by praying three times a night for the souls of its patrons and the souls of the deceased citizens of Waterford.

Commenting on the new museum Minister O’Brien said, 

“I am delighted to support this imaginative initiative which celebrates how death has always been a community event in Ireland. I’d like to congratulate Waterford City and County Council on another remarkable conservation project demonstrating yet again their commitment to our heritage.  Many people have supported this project, and I would particularly like to mention David Boles, the co-founder of the extraordinary Irish Museum of Time as well as the late Dr Tom and Mrs Marie Cavanagh of the Tomar Philanthropic Trust.

I’d like to also thank the conservation master mason Brian Whelan whose craftsmanship cannot be underestimated. Finally, I’d like to acknowledge all the staff of Waterford Treasures Museums, including Director Eamonn McEneaney, Acting Curator Rosemary Ryan and museum Keeper Donnchadh Ó Ceallacháin, whose hard work and dedication brought this project to fruition as well as the support of the Chairman Des Whelan and the entire Board.”

Mayor of Waterford Cllr. John O’Leary said,

“The Irish Wake is a unique and intrinsic element of Ireland’s heritage. It brings communities together, it is a time to grieve together but it is also a celebration of life. This distinct and historic act is one that holds an air of intrigue and the Irish Wake cultural traditions are held in fascination. The new museum is a distinct tourism proposition in a global sense and added to the award-winning collection of museums in Waterford City it re-affirms Waterford not only as Ireland’s oldest City, but an ancient City which celebrates its own heritage and that of Ireland for its locals and visitors alike.”

The new museum is the latest in the Waterford Treasures collective of Museums at Waterford’s Viking Triangle, it is in addition to the Medieval Museum – the only purpose-built museum specialising in medieval history in Ireland – The Bishop’s Palace, The Irish Museum of Time, Irish Silver Museum, King of the Vikings virtual reality experience and the EPIC guided walking tour of Waterford.

The Museum houses a remarkable array of objects associated with death in Ireland which the Waterford Museum of Treasures has been collecting for the last 10 years and will offer visitors an opportunity to explore rituals that hold global intrigue and that are entirely unique to Ireland on an intimate guided tour experience. In addition, The Irish Wake Museum has partnered with the multi-award-winning Waterford Whisky and visitors will also be able to book tickets to an Irish Wake and Whisky experience.

Director of Waterford Treasures Eamonn McEneaney said,

“The Irish Wake is one of the iconic parts of our national culture and visitors will get to experience a sense of this at The Irish Wake Museum as we trace the customs, traditions and superstitions associated with death from the earliest times to the 20th century.

At the new museum visitors first arrive at the area once occupied by a shop, the rent from which was used to maintain the almshouse, a new audio-visual showcase explores how the Irish landscape was etched by death over six thousand years.

Moving into the almshouse proper, visitors will experience storytelling through six rooms chronologically from the 15th to the 20th centuries, with different themes associated with death being explored. The exhibition ends by urging people as others have for centuries to Memento Mori – remember death – and to paraphrase George Bernard Shaw, to rejoice in life for its own sake and understand that life is no brief candle but a sort of splendid torch which we get hold of for the moment, in order to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.”

In keeping with the spirit of the founders of the almshouse Waterford Treasures will donate €1 from each admission ticket to the Waterford Hospice Movement. The museum is now open to visitors, further details and  advance tickets can be found at www.waterfordtreasures.com

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Free to use museum images by Patrick Browne pjbrownephotography@gmail.com & Free to use official opening event images available from this afternoon by noelbrowne06@gmail.com

By Waterford City & County Council

Housing Minister announces 277 social and affordable homes in Waterford

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien TD was in Waterford today (Friday, June 16th) to announce 277 social and affordable homes at six sites across the city and county.

First port of call was An Garrán in Tramore, where along with Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary, the Minister turned the sod on a new Waterford City and County Council development of 50 A-rated residential units, comprising 6 one-bed, 28 two-bed, 11 three-bed and 5 disabled access two-bed units.

The Minister then visited and met with residents of Slí na Coille, Clúid Housing’s newest social housing development.  The scheme is a mix of houses, apartments and duplexes and provides secure, high-quality homes for 27 families. The residents came from Waterford City and County Council’s housing list and began moving into their new homes in August of 2022.

Mayor O’ Leary said, “It’s heart-warming to visit Slí na Coille.  Having met with the residents there is an evident overarching theme and that is community, the sense of which is palpable.  What started out as bricks and mortar have very quickly been transformed into homes, places of security and belonging for the residents.

“I’d like to commend the dedication of Clúid Housing in bringing this latest scheme to fruition, which brings the number of homes in Waterford owned or manged by them to 231.”

In the city, Minister O’Brien visited Summerfields and met with developers Whitebox Developments.  The development consists of 92 units and form part of Waterford City and County Councils’ Affordable Purchase Scheme, along with the development at Deerpark, which comprises 25 affordable homes. Under the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme, homes are available at a reduced price for first-time buyers whose mortgage and deposit do not cover the price of the home.

At St. Joseph’s the Minister cut the ribbon on an age-friendly housing development on the landmark site of Manor Hill.  The former convent has been transformed into 71 dwellings, with 50 units located within the main building and 21 located in the various out-building clusters on the site, while the former chapel on the site has been repurposed as a community space for multiple uses by tenants.

Over €4.2 million was approved through the Repair and Lease Scheme, funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.  The funding was provided under Housing for All – A New Housing Plan for Ireland.  The Repair and Lease Scheme has been pioneered in Waterford and is a significant driver in providing high quality affordable housing solutions and at the same time has significantly addressed and delivered the return to use of vacant buildings in Waterford.

Minister O’Brien said, “Waterford City and County Council is leading the way in delivering new social and affordable homes, and in particular in tackling vacancy which to be frank is a scourge in many villages, towns, and cities across the country. I can only commend them on what has been a fantastic day, visiting numerous housing developments which are either underway or have just been completed.

“I want to particularly mention the St. Joseph’s development. I visited St. Joseph’s back in March 2022 when works were underway and I am blown away by what I saw today. The progressive nature of this Local Authority has helped to bring that project to fruition and I congratulate everyone involved in it. Housing for All will see us deliver more projects like these, and at scale too,” he concluded.

At St. Joseph’s Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD also launched Waterford’s Age Friendly Strategy 2023-2028, saying, “I am delighted to be launching the second ever Waterford Age Friendly Strategy 2023-2028, as we cut the ribbon on an age-friendly housing development on this landmark site. This pioneering development for Waterford, one which I hope to see replicated around the country, sees a former convent and chapel transformed into 71 dwellings and multi-use community space for tenants.

“As Minister for Older People, I look forward to further development of Waterford as a leading age friendly county in the coming years.”

The final visit to Waterford’s housing developments was to Ostmen Place, where the Minster was joined by Waterford Metropolitan Mayor, Cllr. Jason Murphy.  Ostmen Place is a new social housing development consisting of 14 new social housing units in Ballytruckle, providing a mix of one, two and three-bedroom units.

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Free to use images: Noel Browne

3/ 5/6 / 7 – Senator John Cummins, Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr John O’Leary, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien TD and Marc Ó Cathasaigh TD

8 – At the launch of Waterford’s Age Friendly Strategy were Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Mary Butler TD, Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr John O’Leary, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien TD, Waterford City and County Council Chief Executive, Michael Walsh, and members of Waterford’s Older Peoples Council and Waterford City and County Council Community staff.

  1. Sod turning at An Garrán
  2. Ribbon cutting at Slí na Coille.

By Waterford City & County Council

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar breaks ground on North Quays Public Infrastructure Project

On a seminal day for Waterford, ground was broken on the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD, Minister for Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport, Eamon Ryan TD and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD.

The project comes following last November’s Government approval of €170.6m of investment in the North Quays Project, consisting of €100.6m of Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) funding and a further €70m from the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA), which will open up access to the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ).

The public infrastructure works funded by the Government in the North Quays include enhanced multi-modal access routes, an integrated transport hub including the relocation of Waterford train station to a more convenient location, and the sustainable transport bridge. The sustainable transport bridge will link the reallocated train station to new walking and cycling infrastructure.  These works will reduce the reliance on private car and facilitate alternative modes of transport for those accessing the area through the delivery of enhanced and integrated sustainable and active travel infrastructure.

The main contract for these infrastructure works was awarded to BAM in November 2022 and today’s ground breaking ceremony signals the commencement of substantial construction works which are expected to be completed in 2025.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary said, “Today is a momentous day for Waterford and the region. This breaking of ground represents more than just the start of works on access infrastructure in the city. It represents the start of Waterford’s renaissance.

“As Ireland’s oldest city, with a rich tapestry of over 1,000 years of history, today marks a new phase in Waterford’s story…one very much with its sights set on moving forward. This transformative project is set to act as a catalyst in assuring Waterford’s economic potency, along with delivering a myriad of environmental, social and tourism benefits to the Southeast.”

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD said, “It’s an honour to be in Waterford today on what is a historic day as we break ground on what will be a new quarter for Ireland’s most ancient city.  It will unlock the North Quays as a place for thousands of people to live, work, shop and visit. It will help Waterford to become a city of scale that can attract more investment, jobs and skills.

“This high quality, sustainable public infrastructure project in the heart of Waterford City, along with the attendant development of the North Quays Strategic Development Zone, is of huge economic and social importance to the city and the South-East.

“The infrastructure project will drive economic development and create jobs in Waterford and the wider region, and the development of the SDZ will enhance the city’s economic, commercial and tourist offering and improve the quality of life for people living in the city.

“The overall project is a great example of how we can make transformative improvements to our cities and towns with coordinated planning, along with public and private investment.

“Project Ireland 2040 is focused on balanced regional development and includes the target to grow Waterford at twice the rate of Dublin, by 50% by 2040. Breaking ground on the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project marks an important milestone in achieving that goal.”

The infrastructure will enable the commercial development on the SDZ Site, which will include offices, residential, retail, accommodation, and tourism investment in conference/exhibition facilities, as well as a 4-star hotel and visitor’s centre.

The proposed development also places a significant emphasis on improving the public realm through investment in new civic spaces, pedestrian facilities, and high-quality transport infrastructure which will connect Waterford and the Southeast greenways.

Waterford’s new state of the art Transport Hub will be unique in Ireland and will put Waterford at the forefront of integrated city centre transport infrastructure, with train, bus, taxi, cycling and car parking all in one location.  The North Quays will be connected to the heart of the city centre by a new sustainable transport bridge for pedestrians, bicycles, and a courtesy bus service.

Minister for Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport, Eamon Ryan TD said, “Last October I launched the Pathfinder Programme of 35 exemplar, sustainable mobility and public transport projects to be delivered by local authorities and agencies within the next three years. Today marks the start of the largest of all the pathfinder projects here at Waterford North Quays.

“This project is the essence of what a Pathfinder Project is all about; it’s creative, it’s ambitious, it’s people-centred.  It will transform the vision that Waterford City and County Council has for the people of the town and the visitors who come here into a reality, delivering a sustainable, attractive and liveable place to live here on the North Quays and providing safe and accessible active travel connections, across the river into town, to the Waterford Greenway and the South East Technological University and indeed, in time, onto Cork through the new Inter-Urban link. It’s good planning and good transport in action, together.”

The commercial development of the site will be carried out by Harcourt Developments, a Dublin-based property development and management company with a broad portfolio of award-winning projects, including Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, Park West Plaza, and numerous shopping centres throughout the country.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD said, “This is a transformational project for Waterford. The North Quays is a site I have visited before and I think it is clear for all to see the potential for jobs, for investment, for commercial development and indeed for much needed residential development. I want to highly commend Waterford City and County Council for the work they have done on getting to this point.”

Alasdair Henderson, Executive Director, BAM Ireland commented, “The BAM team is delighted to be breaking ground today and look forward to working with Waterford City and County Council to deliver this sustainable infrastructure project that will positively impact the city environs for the people of Waterford.”

The development of the North Quays as a modern multi-purpose development on the North site of the city will increase employment, provide much needed high-quality residential units, enhance the retail offer and build on Waterford’s reputation as the Best Place to Live.

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Photos – Free to use:  Patrick Browne

Breaking ground at the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project in Waterford were Michael Walsh, Chief Executive Waterford City and County Council, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. John O’Leary and Minister for Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport, Eamon Ryan

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Humphreys announces significant RRDF funding for Waterford

  • Minister announces €5 million in funding under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF)
  • Minister in Waterford to officially open Enterprise Hubs in Tallow, Lismore, Cappoquin and Villierstown
  • ‘Dungarvan 2040’ also launched in Dungarvan Enterprise Centre

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD was in Waterford yesterday (November 10th) as she announced another tranche of funding from the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF) for Waterford.

The town of Cappoquin was one of the main beneficiaries of the funding with the collaboration involving Waterford City and County Council, Waterford Leader Partnership, Cappoquin Community Development Company, Cappoquin Regeneration Company and Tomar Trust being the beneficiary of over €5 million in funding. The focus of attention are the regeneration efforts in Cappoquin town centre.

Waterford City and County Council has already received Category 2 RRDF funding for Cappoquin in the amount of €1.2 million, which was used in acquiring properties, to undertake design work and to advance projects through Part 8 planning processes.  The emphasis of this further funding of over €5 million sees several currently vacant or derelict town centre properties converted or refurbished to new residential or commercial uses. It also supports the significant upgrading of the town’s public realm.

Accompanying the Minister on her visits, Richie Walsh, Head of Rural Development with Waterford City and County Council responded to the funding announcement by saying that the Council was delighted that its funding application had been successful. “Other than the improvements which will flow directly from the funding, it is envisaged that the state investment will also act as a catalyst to further private investment and to a new understanding of how town centres in rural areas can provide a great quality of life for the people who choose to live, work, and socialise there.

“We look forward to working with the community in Cappoquin to ensure that the town gains best value from this investment.”

Today’s visit also builds on the success of the ‘Connected Hubs’ project as announced by the Minister in 2021, which saw 5 hubs across Waterford enhance and add capacity to their remote and co-working infrastructure.

In a busy itinerary, Minister Humphreys cut the ceremonial ribbon at several Enterprise Hubs, showcasing first-hand the extremely important ongoing investment for rural businesses in Waterford where remote working is fast becoming an attractive alternative for many.

Beginning her whistlestop journey through the Déise, the Minister officially opened the Tallow Enterprise Hub and the broader BVEDZ initiative was also declared open for business.

Community enterprise interests in Cappoquin, Tallow, Lismore, and Villierstown came together to form the Blackwater Valley Economic Development Zone (BVEDZ) team – a collaboration involving Waterford Leader Partnership, Tomar Trust, Waterford City & County Council and the four participant communities.  Premises in each of the four participating areas, some of which were previously derelict or unoccupied, have now been developed as Enterprise Hubs and were today officially opened for business by Minister Humphreys.

Speaking at Dungarvan Enterprise Centre at the launch of the “Dungarvan 2040” programme, Town Manager and Director of Services at Waterford City & County Council, Kieran Kehoe said, “These facilities are a key component of the “Dungarvan 2040” development strategy which we are publishing today.  Buildings such as this will provide affordable office space with access to high-speed broadband, reception, and meeting services. Today’s launch fully accords with the Department of Rural & Community Development’s ‘Town Centre First’ and ‘Our Rural Future’ strategy documents.”

Dungarvan 2040 is a concerted and collaborative approach by government agencies, community groups, stakeholders, the local business community and the local authority to deliver a progressive and cohesive approach to Dungarvan’s social and economic development.  Funded under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme it will act as the strategic basis for identifying and prioritising projects for delivery over the next 20 years.

The Dungarvan Enterprise Hub also received funding under the “Connected Hubs” programme and is a central component of the Dungarvan Digital Transformation Hub (DDTH) initiative.

The final component of her itinerary was to visit Clonea Power to officially open the new Community Hub, so aptly now named “Scéal Nua”. The old Clonea Power National School has been lovingly restored by the local community and is now an excellent model of what can be done when a motivated and forward-looking community group becomes involved in the development of community assets and services.

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By Waterford City & County Council

Sláintecare Healthy Communities launched in Waterford

On Friday October 28th, Waterford City and County Council along with the HSE launched Sláintecare Healthy Communities in Waterford.

The launch took place in Cill Barra Community Sports Centre where it was attended by Deputy Metropolitan Mayor Cllr Lola O’Sullivan, Minister of State at the Department of Health for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler TD and representatives from Brill Family Resource Centre, St. Brigid’s Family Resource Centre and Sacred Heart Family Resource Centre.  Members of Waterford City and County Council’s Community department as well as the HSE’s Health and Wellbeing, including Health Promotion and Improvement team are directly involved in the delivery of the programme and in bringing Sláintecare to Waterford.

Launched nationally in October 2021, Sláintecare Healthy Communities is led by Healthy Ireland in the Department of Health, which has commissioned Local Authorities, HSE and a wide range of community-based organisations to work together and deliver the range of health and wellbeing initiatives in targeted community areas.

There is widespread recognition that communities have a vital role in improving health and wellbeing. The communities where people are born, live, work and socialise in have a significant influence on how healthy they are.

Sláintecare Healthy Communities provides new opportunities for communities to be involved in actions that can nurture health and wellbeing. Being able to do this gives local people a sense of control over what happens where they live and work.

Deputy Metropolitan Mayor Cllr Lola O’Sullivan noted how Sláintecare will add to the amenities and services which are already in place in Ballybeg.  “I appreciate the principles underpinning the work of Sláintecare which are to recognise the strengths and assets already within the community and to work in partnership with the community and stakeholders, which is crucial to ensure that programme is effective and to truly level the playing field for everyone living in our local communities.”

Mary Butler TD added, “I am really delighted to see Sláintecare Healthy Communities launched here in Waterford City. As Minister with responsibility for Older People and Mental Health, I am keenly interested in initiatives that promote health and wellbeing right across the life-course.

“The Healthy Communities Programme does just this; it provides an opportunity for us to work together to make sure that all the members of our community are supported to live longer, healthier lives.”

A fund of €250,000 was allocated to each Local Authority area under the Sláintecare Healthy Communities Programme to support projects that provided added value from a ‘social determinants of health’ perspective.  The fund is being used to fund four projects which have recently been completed: the new Mount Sion footpath to the Play Park, the resurfacing of Bernard Place Tennis Courts, the upgrade of Ballybeg Playground and the upgrade of Ballybricken Green.

In addition €75,000 seed funding is being provided to community projects that will help to reduce the health inequalities in six disadvantaged areas of the city.

This increase in resources for local authorities is aimed at integrating the health and wellbeing agenda with the broader aims of supporting a ‘social determinants’ approach to health inequalities.

Derval Howley, Head of Services, Health and Well Being, HSE said, “HSE / South East Community Health Care is delighted to fund and support the Healthy Communities project in Waterford, a place where there is a strong history of partnership working between the HSE, the Local Authorities, other agencies and the community.”

Waterford City and County Council will coordinate and support the Sláintecare Healthy Communities Programme with the Local Community Development Committees and their existing Healthy Living initiative.

Targeted supports will be delivered to help promote and improve the overall health and wellbeing of our community, particularly around factors that can have a profound impact on our lives such as smoking, nutrition, and parenting.

Health and wellbeing is affected by all aspects of a person’s life; economic status, education, housing, the physical environment in which people live and work. People in Waterford City will have better access to services provided locally by the HSE and other partners.

For further information about Sláintecare visit www.hse.ie

 

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By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Helen McEntee visits Waterford’s Local Community Safety Partnership

Minister Helen McEntee visits Waterford’s Local Community Safety Partnership in the beautiful vestibule of the Theatre Royal.

The Minister was welcomed by Deputy Mayor Cllr Seanie Power who said that the strong community spirit that exists in Waterford makes it ‘an ideal place to be chosen as a pilot site for the Community Safety Partnership and by working together people, communities and agencies we can deliver an even safer Waterford for all’.

The Local Community Safety Partnership is a government initiative that brings together statutory services, the voluntary and community sector, local councillors and community members to work together to identify and tackle community safety issues locally. Local Community Safety Partnerships are being piloted in three areas: Waterford City and County, Longford County, and Dublin’s North Inner City Local Electoral Area. The Waterford pilot is supported by the Department of Justice and Waterford City and County Council.

Chairperson of the Waterford LCSP, Sean Aylward, said that the Ministers visit showed the support of the Department of Justice to the new initiative and it proved a great opportunity for the Partnership members to meet the Minister.

Minister McEntee commented that work of the Community Safety Partnerships will ‘build on the wonderful work of the JPC’s’ and said that the Department of Justice was committed to community safety.

Mr Aylward confirmed that the Waterford LCSP are in the process of developing a community safety plan and would be seeking input from the people of Waterford, ‘It is important that the people of Waterford feed into the development of a plan that is essentially being developed for them and their communities’.  He asked that people engage with the on-line survey that would be advertised soon and the ‘town hall’ meetings that will take place across Waterford City and County Council.

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