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By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City & County Council and Waterford Sports Partnership Launch Play Pack Loan Scheme in Two Waterford City Libraries

Building on the success of last year’s Pilot Play Pack Loan Scheme at Lismore Library, Waterford Sports Partnership and Healthy Waterford (Waterford City and County Council) have once again teamed up with Waterford Libraries to expand the initiative to communities in Waterford City.

The two new Play Packs will now be available to loan from Ardkeen Library and Central Library.

Welcoming the expansion, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan said the scheme reflects Waterford’s continued commitment to child-friendly, inclusive communities. “The Play Pack Loan Scheme is a fantastic example of how simple, creative initiatives can have a meaningful impact on families and communities. By expanding this scheme into Waterford City libraries, we are ensuring that more children have access to opportunities for play, learning and social connection, regardless of circumstance.”

This welcome expansion complements the popular Playful Communities initiative, which has been ongoing in County Waterford over recent years and focuses on encouraging play as a vital part of children’s physical, social and emotional development.

Sinéad Breathnach, Senior Executive Officer for Community and Sports with Waterford City and County Council, highlighted the wider benefits of the scheme, saying, “Play is fundamental to children’s health and wellbeing. This partnership approach between Waterford Sports Partnership, Healthy Waterford and Waterford Libraries allows us to remove barriers to play by making high-quality, engaging play resources easily accessible within local communities.”

The scheme was designed to foster creativity, learning and fun for families and children within the community. The carefully curated Play Packs contain a variety of engaging toys, games and sporting equipment suitable for children of various ages. From toys and building blocks to puzzles and imaginative play sets, these packs are designed to spark curiosity and encourage active and imaginative play.

Mary Conway, Waterford City & County Librarian and Head of Culture, welcomed the role of libraries in supporting community wellbeing. “Libraries are about much more than books… they are welcoming, inclusive spaces that support learning, creativity and connection. The Play Pack Loan Scheme aligns perfectly with the aims of the Waterford Library Development Plan 2025-2030, and we are delighted to see it available in Ardkeen, Central and Lismore Libraries for families and community groups to enjoy. Over the course of 2026 we want to expand Play Pack availability to all our libraries across Waterford City and County”

Rosarie Kealy, Chief Executive Officer, Waterford Sports Partnership, added, “The Play Pack Loan Scheme is an example of collaboration at its best.  Waterford Sports Partnership, Healthy Waterford and Waterford Libraries came together to develop a simple idea that provides play resources for people in their own communities, making it easier for children to play and be active. We look forward to the expansion of the scheme to all Waterford libraries in 2026.’’

The Play Packs are now available for borrowing by library members, local community groups and residents’ associations from Ardkeen Library, Central Library and Lismore Library.

For further information, please contact Lauren Walsh Kett lwalshkett@waterfordsportspartnership.ie or Eoin Morrissey eoinmorrissey@waterfordcouncil.ie

-ends-

Images:  Kieran Rafter

7981:    Mary Conway, Waterford City & County Librarian and Head of Culture

8081:    Jessica Griffin, Breda O Shea, Debbie Johnson ,Waterford Libraries; Lauren Walsh Kett, Waterford Sports Partnership; Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan, Mary Conway, Waterford City & County Librarian and Head of Culture Orla Kelly & Eoin Morrissey, Waterford City and County Council Community & Sports Department.

8093:    Jessica Griffin, Breda O Shea, Debbie Johnson, Waterford Libraries;  Lauren Walsh Kett, Waterford Sports Partnership;  Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan, Mary Conway, Waterford City & County Librarian and Head of Culture Orla Kelly & Eoin Morrissey Waterford City and County Council Community & Sports Department.

8145: Eoin Morrissey, Jessica Griffin, Lauren Walsh Kett and Tom Mullane.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City & County Council Festival & Event Grants for 2026

Waterford City and County Council has approved the allocation of €1,692,469 in festival and event funding to aid the development and promotion of events across Waterford City and County in 2026. 

The figure is a slight increase on 2025’s allocation of €1,671,107.

The allocation will support 72 festivals and events throughout the city and county, in addition to providing training and support to enable local festivals to evolve.

Ten new festivals will make their debut in 2026 including, amongst others, Bloomsday in Waterford, Lismore Senior Citizen’s Christmas Party, West Waterford Mental Health Awareness Support Weekend and the GAA World Games.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan welcomed the adoption of the Festivals and Events Budget for 2026.

“This allocation will give Waterford’s already much-loved and established festivals the opportunity to continue to entertain and enthral, while new festivals will get a welcome boost to debut in Waterford, provide new artistic experiences and reach new audiences.

“Waterford has a long and proud tradition of festivals, art and culture and this allocation assures that artists, creatives, musicians and festival programmers can continue to bring an eclectic range of entertainment to venues throughout the city and county, throughout the year.”

The primary focus of the funding is to support and promote local festivals that offer economic, tourism, cultural, artistic, or community benefits to Waterford. Additionally, funding is available to provide training that will help local festivals and events grow and develop.

Claire Hartley, Acting Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council added, “Year on year, Waterford has grown its festival programme to what is now a year round offering. From the most recent Winterval festival, which drew in excess of one million visitors to Waterford, and the renowned international street theatre festival, Spraoi, to the smaller, niche festivals, the calendar is bookended with over 70 events that have an appeal to all ages and all tastes.

“Waterford City and County Council is pleased to support the extensive range of dynamic and vibrant festivals and events that bring the community together, ensuring Waterford continues to be a hub of diverse and engaging entertainment.”

Some of the festivals to be supported in 2026 include Ballyduff Upper Gala Festival, Block Party, L’Étape Ireland, Immrama, Passage East Festival, Daonscoil na Mumhan, Pride of the Deise, Robert Boyle Summer School, Waterford Chamber Music Festival and Well Festival of Arts & Wellbeing.

Festival Grants

By Waterford City & County Council

Deontais Chomhairle Cathrach & Contae Phort Láirge d’Fhéile & d’Imeachtaí don bhliain 2026

Cheadaigh Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge leithdháileadh de €1,692,469 i maoiniú d’fhéilte agus d’imeachtaí chun cabhrú le forbairt agus cur chun cinn imeachtaí ar fud Chathair agus Chontae Phort Láirge sa bhliain 2026.

Is méadú beag í an fhigiúr seo ar an leithdháileadh de €1,671,107 a bhí ann sa bhliain 2025.

Tacóidh an leithdháileadh le 72 féile agus imeacht ar fud na cathrach agus an chontae, chomh maith le hoiliúint agus tacaíocht a thabhairt chun gur féidir le féilte áitiúla forbairt a dhéanamh.

Cuirfear tús le deich bhféile nua in 2026 lena n-áirítear, i measc féilte eile, Bloomsday i bPort Láirge, Cóisir na Nollag do Sheanóirí na Leasa Móire, Deireadh Seachtaine Tacaíochta Feasachta Meabhairshláinte Iarthar Phort Láirge agus Cluichí Domhanda an CLG.

D’fháiltigh Méara Chathair agus Chontae Phort Láirge, An Clr. Séamus Ryan roimh ghlacadh Bhuiséad na bhFéilte agus na nImeachtaí do 2026.

“Tabharfaidh an leithdháileadh seo seans d’fhéilte Phort Láirge a bhfuil an-mheas orthu agus atá bunaithe cheana féin leanúint leo ag cur siamsaíochta ar fáil, agus cuirfear borradh faoi fhéilte nua i bPort Láirge chun eispéiris ealaíonta nua a chur ar fáil agus chun dul i bhfeidhm ar lucht féachana nua.

“Tá traidisiún fada, bródúil ag Port Láirge maidir le féilte, ealaín agus cultúr agus cinntíonn an leithdháileadh seo gur féidir le healaíontóirí, daoine cruthaitheacha, ceoltóirí agus na daoine a chuireann cláir fhéilte le chéile leanúint le raon siamsaíochta de gach saghas a thabhairt chuig ionaid ar fud na cathrach agus an chontae, i rith na bliana.”

Is é príomhfhócas an mhaoinithe ná tacú le féilte áitiúla a chuireann tairbhí eacnamaíocha, turasóireachta, cultúrtha, ealaíonta nó pobail ar fáil do Phort Láirge agus iad a chur chun cinn. Ina theannta sin, tá maoiniú ar fáil chun oiliúint a chur ar fáil a chabhróidh le féilte agus le himeachtaí áitiúla fás agus forbairt a dhéanamh.

Dúirt Claire Hartley, Stiúrthóir Seirbhísí Gníomhach le Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, “Bliain i ndiaidh bliana, tá fás tagtha ar chlár féilte Phort Láirge go dtí an méid atá á thairiscint anois ó cheann ceann na bliana. Ón bhféile Winterval is déanaí, a tharraing níos mó ná milliún cuairteoir go Port Láirge, agus ón bhféile iomráiteach idirnáisiúnta amharclannaíochta sráide, Spraoi, go dtí na féilte níos lú, bíonn níos mó ná 70 imeacht, a bhfuil spéis ag gach aois agus ag gach duine iontu, ar siúl ó cheann ceann na bliana.

“Tá áthas ar Chomhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge tacú leis an raon fairsing féilte agus imeachtaí fuinniúla, bríomhara a thugann an pobal le chéile, rud a chinntíonn go leanfaidh Port Láirge de bheith ina mhol siamsaíochta ilghnéitheach agus tarraingteach.”

I measc cuid de na féilte a dtabharfar tacaíocht dóibh in 2026 tá; Féile an Bhaile Dhuibh, Block Party, L’Étape Ireland, Immrama, Féile an Phasáiste, Daonscoil na Mumhan, Pride of the Déise, Scoil Samhraidh Robert Boyle, Féile Ceol Aireagail Phort Láirge agus Well Festival of Arts & Wellbeing.

Festival Grants

By Waterford City & County Council

Well Communities: Waterford Launches Community Wellbeing Workshop Opportunities

Waterford City and County Council, through its Community Department’s Health and Wellbeing team, is pleased to announce plans for a series of Community Wellbeing Workshops, titled “Well Communities”, to be delivered across the Municipal Districts.
These interactive workshops aim to support and strengthen community wellbeing by exploring key aspects of community development and addressing a broad range of themes, including:
Speaking about the initiative, Cllr. Seamus Ryan, Mayor of Waterford City and County, said:
“The wellbeing of our communities is a key priority for Waterford City and County Council. These workshops will provide valuable opportunities for people to come together, share ideas, and help build healthier, more connected and resilient communities across the county.”
Sinéad Breathnach, Head of Community with Waterford City and County Council, highlighted the collaborative approach underpinning the programme:
“Community-led and community-informed initiatives are vital in achieving meaningful and lasting impact. We are inviting communities and community workers to work alongside us in shaping these workshops, ensuring they reflect local needs, strengths, and priorities.”
Welcoming the focus on community engagement, CEO Liam Quinn from Búion Portlairge added:
“Initiatives like these workshops play an important role in supporting grassroots wellbeing and strengthening connections within our communities. By working in partnership, we can help create spaces where people feel supported, heard, and empowered to take positive action locally.”
Waterford City and County Council is now seeking expressions of interest from communities and community workers who would like to collaborate in the planning of these workshops. A short survey has been developed to:
The survey can be accessed at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/cwellbeing
Waterford City and County Council encourages all interested community members and organisations to take part and help shape the delivery of the Well Communities workshops throughout 2026.

By Waterford City & County Council

New exhibition to open in Waterford exploring abstract art in all its glory

Soon to open at O’Connell Street’s Waterford Gallery of Art is a new exhibition presenting a selection of both historic and newly acquired abstract artworks from the permanent Waterford Art Collection.

Alongside artworks can also be found archival information, newspaper cuttings, and descriptions from the artists themselves – as well as critique by a cross-section of individuals invited and interested in demystifying this still often divisive visual language.

Even though it has been over one-hundred years since modern abstract artwork first began to be exhibited and explored in Ireland, it still proves to be a polarising art form, dividing opinions, interest, and interpretations. The exhibition’s title, ‘How to Tell a Hawk from a Handsaw,’ a quote from Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet’, is referenced in one of the many newspaper clippings displayed from the first half of the twentieth century and questions how to discern between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ modern art.

Waterford artist Sheila Naughton, whose work is part of the collection, notes: “Abstract painting often needed to be explained, but even then people were still unsure if what they thought they were seeing was what they were meant to see and what the painting was meant to be about…ultimately a work succeeds if it elicits an emotional response from the viewer.”

Alongside older items from the Waterford Art Collection (by artists including Arthur Armstrong, Colin Middleton, Evie Hone, and Anne Yeats) are newer additions from artists living and working in Waterford and the southeast including Susan Connolly, Ciara Rodgers, Shelia Naughton, Julie Cusack, Darragh Lyons, John McHarg, Aidan Dunne, and more.

This free exhibition is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm from 12 February – 20 June 2026. A special exhibition launch will take place at the gallery 6pm on 26 February.

By Waterford City & County Council

Uisce Éireann crews repairing burst water main in Tramore

Uisce Éireann crews are working to repair a major burst that occurred overnight in Tramore and restore water to customers affected. Customers in Tramore, Butlerstown and surrounding areas may experience reduced pressure or outages while repairs are underway.

Maura Phelan, Water Operations Manager for Waterford, has assured customers that every effort is being made to restore a full water supply as quickly and safely as possible. “This is a challenging repair due to the size and location of the burst. We are also reconfiguring the network where possible to reduce the number of customers affected. We understand how disruptive unplanned outages can be, and we thank customers for their patience and support while repairs are underway. We estimate repairs will be completed later this evening.”

Following repair works, it typically takes three to four hours for normal supply to return to all customers as the network refills, particularly for those on higher ground or at the end of the network.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communications from us for planned and unplanned outages lasting more than four hours. To register as a vulnerable customer or as an alternative contact, visit our Vulnerable Customers page.

Uisce Éireann is committed to keeping customers informed across multiple platforms 24/7 and we encourage customers to engage with us through our website, X channels @IWCare and @IrishWater, and through our customer care helpline which is open 24/7 on 1800 278 278.

For further updates, please see the water supply and services section of our website and use reference number WAT00105046

Uisce Éireann has a free text service, providing real-time updates for local issues. Customers can sign up with their Eircode and mobile number at our Text Updates page.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council shortlisted for four LAMA All-Ireland Community and Council Awards

Waterford City and County Council will be represented in four categories of the Local Authority Member Association (LAMA) awards which take place in the Dublin Royal Convention Centre next month.

Celebrating 20 years, the LAMA awards shine a spotlight on collaboration between communities and local authorities and provide a national platform to showcase outstanding local initiatives that enrich and strengthen our communities.

In the Best Housing Regeneration and Urban Planning Category, the refurbishment of 29 The Glen is shortlisted.  The refurbishment was completed as part of Waterford City and County Council’s ongoing response to dereliction and vacancy within the city.  The four quality one-bedroom apartments were allocated to tenants from the Council’s social housing list and as such have helped to ensure the continued support of residential amenity in the local area.

In the Best Enterprise and Start-Up Hub category, Kinetic Labs has been shortlisted. Kinetic Labs is an innovative, purpose-built science and technology hub located in the heart of Waterford, designed to support early-stage and scaling enterprises operating in the life sciences, med-tech, bio-tech, pharma, and high-value manufacturing sectors. Established to address a critical gap in the South-East region, Kinetic Labs provides high spec laboratories and tailored business support for scientific and technical start-ups that traditionally face significant barriers to entry due to the high cost of lab facilities, compliance requirements, and specialised equipment.

The Environment Department has been recognised in two categories. The Ballybricken Transport eHub is shortlisted in the Best Community Transport Initiative. The eHub site allows people to select the most suitable mode of transport for their needs, aiming to provide a range of shared public travel options. By providing alternative solutions, it encourages people to try different mobility options when travelling to work or getting around the city.

The purpose built eHub sites includes an ESB charge station to charge the shared EVs, as well as one e-cargo bike and four e-bikes.

In the Best Green Sustainable Initiative category, the Council’s Business Pledge for a Cleaner, Greener Waterford has been shortlisted.  In 2025, the fourth year of the initiative, local businesses were invited to take the Business Pledge to strive towards a cleaner, greener Waterford, and commit to completing at least two actions over 12 months to reduce the carbon footprint of their business and avail of a 9% discount on their commercial rates bill.

Commenting on the shortlist, Sean McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council said, “I would like to congratulate all the Council staff and teams behind the shortlisted projects. From housing and environmental initiatives to economic development, these projects demonstrate Waterford City and County Council’s forward-thinking approach to tackling some of our most important challenges.

“Initiatives such as the LAMA awards not only give us and the other 30 local authorities the opportunity to showcase our work, but also to work collaboratively with others and share best practice.”

The LAMA All-Ireland Community and Council Awards 2026 will celebrate 20 years of the awards and 40 years of the LAMA Executive, and take place in the Dublin Royal Convention Centre on February 28th, 2026.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council builds on success of healthy and active neighbourhood programme

Healthy Waterford and Waterford Sports Partnership, along with key stakeholders including Buíon Phort Láirge, Sláintecare Healthy Communities, Waterford Libraries, the Community Safety Partnership, and the Waterford Childcare Committee, are partnering to roll out the Playful Communities initiative for 2026.

The Playful Communities initiative supports children and adults to safely play outdoors, and resident groups and support agencies are invited to apply to participate.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan officially launched the initiative at Sacred Heart Family Resource Centre and spoke of his experience attending several Playful Communities events throughout 2025.

“Having seen first-hand the impact of the Playful Communities initiative at events across the city and county, it is clear that this exceptional programme fosters stronger connections among residents and highlights the vital, intergenerational role of play and social interaction within our communities.

“Following its success in 2025, I am hopeful that even more communities throughout Waterford will have the opportunity to participate this year.”

Sinéad Breathnach, Head of Waterford City and County Council’s Community and Sports Department, highlighted the value of the Playful Neighbourhoods and Communities approach, noting that the project demonstrates how the community sector can successfully empower residents to build resilient communities through inclusive and accessible opportunities for play and recreation.

She emphasised that, in the context of 2026 priorities, the initiative delivers measurable social, health and wellbeing outcomes, aligns strongly with Healthy Ireland and the Local Economic and Community Plan, and supports the Council’s commitments under the WHO Healthy Cities and Communities Programme. She further noted that the approach provides a shared framework that enables effective collaboration and alignment with a broad range of statutory, community and voluntary stakeholders.

Building on last year’s success, several Playful Neighbourhoods and Communities initiatives will be delivered across Waterford City and County between May and September 2026.

To receive an application pack and apply, please email eoinmorrissey@waterfordcouncil.ie by February 13th, 2026.

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Alan Dillon Launches Ireland’s First “Circular Cups for Community Events”

This pioneering initiative developed by Southern Region Waste Planning Office in partnership with local authorities in the Southern Waste Region, marks a new era for local sustainability

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications with responsibility for Circular Economy, Alan Dillon TD, joined the Southern Region Waste Planning Office in partnership with local authorities across the Southern Waste Region and IRD Duhallow to launch ‘Circular Cups for Community Events’ – a first-of-its-kind initiative in Ireland. This pioneering programme provides local not -for- profit community events, throughout the Southern Waste Region, with access to high quality reusable cups, designed to eliminate single-use waste at their events. The Southern Waste Region includes local authorities in counties Tipperary, Limerick, Clare, Cork, Waterford, Kerry, Wexford, Kilkenny and Carlow.

Minister Dillon commented at the launch: “This ‘Circular Cups for Community Events’ initiative is exactly the kind of grassroots, collaborative action that drives our national circular economy ambitions forward. It empowers communities to actively reduce waste, embrace sustainable practices, and sets a fantastic example for the rest of the country. My Department is proud to support this vital step towards a greener, more sustainable future for Ireland.”

This programme now empowers a wide variety of organisations including local sports clubs, schools, youth organisations, craft markets, and community festivals to easily access a shared stock of reusable pint, half-pint, and hot/cold beverage cups with or without lids. The stock includes 12,000 pint cups, 9,000 half-pint cups, and 7,000 coffee cups, ensuring ample supply for various event sizes.

“This initiative is the culmination of extensive collaborative effort and a shared vision to make sustainable event management a reality for our communities,” said Pauline McDonogh, Circular Economy Co-ordinator at Regional Waste Management Planning Offices. “The Local Authorities in the Southern Waste Region have been instrumental in making ‘Circular Cups for Community Events’ a reality, from contributing to the cup stock to championing its local rollout. Our role at Regional Waste Management Planning Offices is to facilitate the establishment of the necessary infrastructure and coordinate this region-wide partnership. We’re providing the tools and the system; our local communities and the Environmental Awareness Officers are the vital heart driving its success on the ground.”

How will it work?

The service operated by IRD Duhallow, on behalf of the local authorities in the Southern Waste Region, is designed for maximum convenience: cups are delivered clean to event locations, collected after the event, and professionally washed at a dedicated facility for guaranteed reuse up to 300 times – embodying a truly circular solution for local communities. Organisers will contribute only towards the cost of transportation and a nominal washing fee, making sustainable practices accessible and affordable. A deposit for cup losses is also factored in when placing the cup order.

While the ambition for such a model is national, the service is currently focused on events and festivals within the Southern Waste Region. This approach ensures the programme can effectively demonstrate its profound impact at a local and regional level, setting a benchmark for future expansion.

Ella Ryan, Environment Awareness Officer with Waterford City & County Council highlights the local impact, stating: “The ‘Circular Cups for Community Events’ programme is a fantastic resource that empowers our local clubs, schools, and event organisers to significantly reduce waste and embrace greener practices. Our Local Authority is proud to be a key partner in this initiative, and our Environmental Awareness Officer is actively working to promote its uptake and support local groups in making the switch to reusable solutions. We are also exploring potential grants to further assist local festivals in leveraging this valuable resource.”

The booking system for ‘Circular Cups for Community Events’ is now live, and reusable cups will be available for all eligible events from January 12th 2026, onwards. Not-for-profit groups within the Southern Waste Region are encouraged to visit  Dashboard – Tenvito to learn more and secure their supply.

ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford designers to shine at Showcase 2026

Expo 26Waterford’s craft and design industry has the strongest representation in years at the 2026 Showcase Creative Expo.

The Local Enterprise Showcase 2026 will be located in hall 3, called the Local Enterprise Showcase in the RDS (The Serpentine Hall) from the 18th to 20th of January 2026 and will be named the Local Enterprise Hall. 

A total of five craft and design companies will be presenting the best of Waterford creativity, design and innovation, with the assistance of Local Enterprise Office Waterford. Jac Sinnott of Sassy Jac, Jayne Cahill of Jayne Cahill Art, Lynn Shead of Natures Alchemy, Carmel Grant of Carmel Grant Designs and Polly Doyle of Polly & Andy are all representing their county at this year’s leading creative exhibition.

Showcase is Ireland’s Creative Expo®. It is the foremost place for retailers to discover unique, design-led fashion and knitwear, jewellery, craft, gift and interiors. The show attracts buyers and press from Ireland and around the world looking for unique, design-led products in fashion, knitwear, jewellery, crafts, gifts and home accessories. 

Running for over forty years, Showcase has an impressive track record in attracting Ireland’s most talented makers and designers, along with buyers from over twenty countries. Showcase is a B2B opportunity for clients who are wholesale ready.

Jac Sinnott – Sassy Jac

Where bold messages meet Irish humour. Jac’s creative journey began in 2019, inspired by the 2018 Repeal campaign and her lifelong love for finding the perfect card. What started as a kitchen table craft quickly grew into a business after a local market brought her products to life. Five years later, she still loves seeing people’s reactions to her cards. Whether it’s a pun-tastic laugh or a heartfelt moment, Jac’s goal is to create cards that are unique, memorable, and full of personality. “When I’m not creating, I’m diving into books, going to gigs, or staying vocal about social justice and causes that matter. I also co-founded CC Creatives, a colourful gift shop in Waterford, with a group of amazing women.”

Jayne Cahill – Jayne Cahill Art
Scottish-born and now based in Waterford, artist Jayné Cahill creates work rooted in connection — to place, to memory, and to the moments that shape who we are. Her intricate pen-and-ink illustrations capture well-loved landmarks and scenes, designed to stir emotions and spark memories.

With a degree in Visual Communications from Edinburgh College of Art, Jayné enjoyed an award-winning career in graphic design and publishing for more than three decades before returning to her first love, art. Today, her pieces are treasured as meaningful gifts and keepsakes.

Alongside her fine art prints, Jayné has launched a growing national collection of art-inspired homeware, gifts and cards featuring local landmarks set against county colours — perfect for sending abroad as a reminder of home, or for collecting when exploring Ireland.

Lynn Shead, Natures Alchemy

Natures Alchemy is a natural skincare brand created by scientist-turned-herbalist Lynn Shead after years of caring for her children’s sensitive, eczema-prone skin.

Using herbs grown in Co. Waterford, these gentle but effective products feature our innovative magnetic labelling system meaning they are there when you need them most. ‘Showcase is a wonderful opportunity to grow the Natures Alchemy brand and I am excited to connect with new and existing stockists from all over Ireland and abroad.’

Carmel Grant – Carmel Grant Designs

Carmel is an Irish artist who creates beautifully hand-drawn caricature gifts and playful designs from her studio in Waterford City. Her products and services include personalised framed gifts, celebration guest signing boards, wedding invitation cards, digital art, and her new Paper Doll book collection. Carmel’s caricatures make the perfect gifts for retirements, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and corporate events; “My focus is on the customer, bringing them on the journey through the design process to see their design come to life as a cartoon. I capture the essence of each person I draw in a fun way. Each design is original and designed to bring happiness to customers for some of the most important of times in their lives.” Her Paper Doll Collection encourage screen-free imaginative play for children. “My goal is simple: to bring a little joy, imagination, and nostalgia into children’s lives, one paper doll at a time.”

Polly Doyle – Polly & Andy

Polly is the founder of Polly & Andy, based in Cheekpoint in East Waterford. She set up her company selling bamboo socks after she found these were the only socks that her son, Andy, could wear comfortably. Sustainable, super soft, breathable, seamless toe, moisture wicking, hypoallergenic bamboo socks are available from the Polly & Andy website. “I launched my business in 2019 and we have grown beyond my wildest dreams! I’m buzzing with excitement for Showcase—where we’ll unveil our fabulous new bamboo sock designs, gifting solutions, and retail stands. We can’t wait to meet new stockists and reunite with existing members of the Polly & Andy family or “sockists” as we like to call them”

Jamie Whitty, Business Advisor at LEO Waterford said that Showcase is an invaluable stepping stone to any craft-maker or designer getting an audience with potential clients. “These five Waterford craft and design enterprises have shown ingenuity and flair with their products and will certainly be amongst the most talented craft and design artists this country has to offer at Showcase.

“Our clients have availed of support with the cost to exhibit at Showcase, bespoke briefing days and one to one mentoring in the run up to Showcase to ensure they are buyer ready. With buyers from Ireland, Europe, the USA and Asia, Showcase is truly established as the must-see trade event for anyone in the fashion, jewellery, home or giftware business the event offers exposure to new international markets.” Clients will also be entered into the Business of Craft Awards.

If your business is in pre-start, start-up or established business phase and would like to find out more about what business support services are available from LEO Waterford visit www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford/ or call to LEO Waterford offices at 35, The Mall, Waterford or the Civic Offices in Dungarvan.

 -ENDS-

 Photo by Nathan Burke Photography

By Waterford City & County Council

Storm Goretti Status Yellow Warning

Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow Snow and Rain warning for Waterford, which will come into effect at 12 noon until 8pm on Thursday, January 8th.

Storm Goretti is predicted to bring rain, heavy at times, that will turn to sleet and snow, in some places on Thursday afternoon.

Potential impacts include hazardous travelling conditions, spot flooding, poor visibility and icy patches.

Gabriel Hynes, Acting Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council said, “Waterford City and County Council continues to treat daily over 500 kilometres of Priority One and Two roads, to ensure that they remain safe and passable.

“However, we would urge motorists to remain vigilant when travelling, particularly at night as even on gritted roads, conditions may be challenging.”

Waterford City and County Council’s Priority One and Two service routes consist of 554km of road network receiving treatment, of these there are two National Road networks within Waterford, the N25 (61km) Waterford to Cork and the N72 (35km) Dungarvan to Fermoy.

Pedestrians are also advised to take care as footpaths will be slippery due to ice and frost, and cyclists are advised to also exercise caution during this cold weather spell.  While key arterial routes are being treated, there are cycle routes that may not be gritted.

Waterford City and County Council’s Integrated Homeless Services Severe Weather Protocol is also in operation with extra bed capacity available for rough sleepers at McGwire House.  The Outreach team is in regular contact with any known rough sleepers to advise them of impending weather alerts and remind them of the shelter arrangements which they can avail of.

Waterford City and County Council is appealing to the public to contact the Homeless Services Team if they see person(s) sleeping rough in Waterford.

Members of the public can contact Waterford City and County Council’s Customer Services Desks by calling 0818 10 20 20 during normal office hours, after which calls will be transferred to the Council’s emergency services number.

Waterford roads network Winter Gritting Routes can be found on the homepage of Waterford City and County Council website at https://waterfordcouncil.ie/

Key public safety messages:

  • Wintry showers and icy surfaces will lead to difficult travel conditions.
  • Road conditions will be hazardous, even where roads are gritted, slow down, drive with caution, be aware of other road users and allow extra time for your journey.
  • Drivers travelling longer journeys are advised to be aware of conditions right along their route, as the weather may vary significantly across different parts of the country
  • Public transport may also be affected by this spell of wintry weather; people are advised to check with service operators for the latest updates in their area.
  • Take extra care while walking: footpaths etc. can be extremely hazardous/slippery due to ice
  • Check on elderly, vulnerable and isolated neighbours
  • People are advised to prepare for this period of severe weather including ensuring their mobile phone is fully charged to enable communication.
  • Keep your phone charged and take it with you on all journeys. In an emergency dial 999 or 112
  • Monitor Met Éireann forecasts and/or visit https://www.met.ie/ for the most up to date information. Information is available across social media platforms and other news media sources.
  • ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie.
  • Uisce Éireann Customers can check their website and social media channels for updates and to get in touch with any issues or concerns via our 24/7 customer care centre at 1800 278 278. People can also sign up online to free text alert system to get regular updates about their local supplies – see www.water.ie.
  • People are advised to conserve water, and visit https://www.water.ie for advice
  • The Be Winter Ready website https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/aa78b9-be-winter-ready provides further advice on preparing for severe weather.
  • Farmers are advised to take all precautions when dealing with livestock and possibly working alone.

By Waterford City & County Council

Storm Goretti – Restrictions on organic fertiliser spreading

Waterford City and County Council reminds farmers of restrictions on organic fertiliser (e.g. soiled water) spreading within 48 hours of heavy rain.

Met Éireann has issued a yellow snow/ice weather advisory for Waterford regarding Storm Goretti, which will come into effect from 12pm until 8pm tomorrow – Thursday, January 8th.

Possible impacts include spot flooding, hazardous travel conditions and poor visibility.

Under the European Union (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2022, organic and chemical fertilisers or soiled water shall not be applied to land when it is snow-covered, frozen, or waterlogged or when heavy rain is forecast within 48 hours.

By Waterford City & County Council

Community Monuments Fund (CMF) 2026 open for applications

Community Monuments Fund 2026

Waterford City and County Council invites applications to the Community Monuments Fund 2026, as operated by the National Monuments Service of the Department of Housing, Heritage and Local Government.

The closing date for applications is 5 pm 30th January 2026

The core aims of the Community Monuments Fund are the conservation, maintenance, protection and promotion of local monuments and archaeological sites. Local authorities, private owners, community groups and custodians of monuments are eligible to apply under the following 3 streams;

  • Stream 1 will offer grants up to €100,000 for 3 projects aimed at essential repairs and capital works for the conservation and repair of archaeological monuments.
  • Stream 2 will offer grants of up to €30,000 for 2 projects development of Conservation Management Plans/Reports and detailed Specification of Works that are aimed at identifying measures for conservation of archaeological monuments and improving public access.
  • Stream 3 will offer grants of up to €30,000 for 2 projects for enhancement of access infrastructure, interpretation (including virtual/online) and small scale emergency conservation works at archaeological monuments.

All proposals shall demonstrate some tangible public value benefit. This may include access, physical and virtual, or provision of information to the public in some form.

Application forms and further details are available to download below.

Applicants should read the CMF guidance circular carefully and ensure that method statements and relevant consents are included with the application. Applications should be returned to bguest@waterfordcouncil.ie by no later than 5 pm on January 30th 2026

Application Form Handbook

By Waterford City & County Council

Status Yellow Low Temperature – Ice warning in place

A Status Yellow Low temperature / Ice warning for Waterford will be in place until 9am tomorrow (Tuesday, January 6th).

With very cold nights with widespread frost, ice and freezing fog and possibility of black ice, potential impacts include hazardous travelling conditions and travel disruption.

Gabriel Hynes, Acting Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council said, “Waterford City and County Council ground crews are attending the road networks to ensure they remain safe and passable.  However, we would still urge all motorists to exercise caution on their journeys. Waterford City and County Council is treating over 500 kilometres of Priority One and Two network routes and will continue to treat these roads over the coming days.”

Waterford roads network Winter Gritting Routes can be found on the homepage of Waterford City and County Council website at https://waterfordcouncil.ie/

Mr Hynes added, “Nighttime temperatures are set to drop considerably and travelling conditions will be challenging, even on gritted roads, so please slow down, drive with caution, be aware of other road users and allow extra time for your journey.”

Pedestrians are also advised to take care as footpaths will be dangerous with be slippery due to ice and frost, and cyclists are advised to also exercise caution during this cold weather spell.  While key arterial routes are being treated, there are cycle routes that may not be gritted.

Waterford City and County Council’s Integrated Homeless Services Severe Weather Protocol is also in operation, with extra bed capacity available for rough sleepers at McGwire House.  Waterford City and County Council is appealing to the public to contact the Homeless Services Team if they see person(s) sleeping rough in Waterford.

Members of the public can contact Waterford City and County Council’s Customer Services Desks by calling 0818 10 20 20 during normal office hours, after which calls will be transferred to the Council’s emergency services number.

Key public safety messages:

  • Wintry showers and icy surfaces will lead to difficult travel conditions.
  • Road conditions will be hazardous, even where roads are gritted, slow down, drive with caution, be aware of other road users and allow extra time for your journey.
  • Drivers travelling longer journeys are advised to be aware of conditions right along their route, as the weather may vary significantly across different parts of the country
  • Public transport may also be affected by this spell of wintry weather; people are advised to check with service operators for the latest updates in their area.
  • Take extra care while walking: footpaths etc. can be extremely hazardous/slippery due to ice
  • Check on elderly, vulnerable and isolated neighbours
  • People are advised to prepare for this period of severe weather including ensuring their mobile phone is fully charged to enable communication.
  • Keep your phone charged and take it with you on all journeys. In an emergency dial 999 or 112
  • Monitor Met Éireann forecasts and/or visit https://www.met.ie/ for the most up to date information. Information is available across social media platforms and other news media sources.
  • ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor www.PowerCheck.ie.
  • Uisce Éireann Customers can check their website and social media channels for updates and to get in touch with any issues or concerns via our 24/7 customer care centre at 1800 278 278. People can also sign up online to free text alert system to get regular updates about their local supplies – see www.water.ie.
  • People are advised to conserve water, and visit https://www.water.ie for advice
  • The Be Winter Ready website https://www.gov.ie/en/campaigns/aa78b9-be-winter-ready provides further advice on preparing for severe weather.
  • Farmers are advised to take all precautions when dealing with livestock and possibly working alone.
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