Latest News & Announcements - Waterford City & County Council

24th October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford one of Ireland’s top improvers in EPA Environmental Enforcement Report

Local Authority Environmental Enforcement Performance Report 2024

Waterford City & County Council has recorded one of the strongest performances in the country in the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Local Authority Environmental Enforcement Performance Report 2024, marking a notable three-year journey of progress and achievement.

The EPA report tracks local authority performance across 19 National Enforcement Priorities (NEPs) covering waste, water, air and noise. In 2024, Waterford achieved Strong or Excellent ratings in 17 out of 19 NEPs, up from just three in 2022, an improvement described by the EPA as one of the most notable in Ireland.

Among the examples of effective local enforcement highlighted in the report was a Waterford case study on the removal of improperly stored silage bales near a protected lake, which eliminated a serious pollution risk and demonstrated best practice in agricultural enforcement.

Chief Executive Seán McKeown said the results are a testament to hard work and shared purpose:

“This report underlines Waterford’s commitment to protecting our environment and ensuring compliance with environmental standards at every level. Waterford is recognised as one of the most notable local authority improvers over the last 3 years thanks to the remarkable collective effort of the Environment Team, and it shows what can be achieved when staff, management and the community work together for a cleaner, safer and more sustainable environment.”

Dawn Wallace, Senior Executive Officer with the Council’s Environment Department, added:

“Our teams take huge pride in this result. It’s proof that careful planning, proactive inspection and effective follow-up make a real difference. We’ll continue to build on this success and maintain momentum in the areas of air and water quality, which remain priorities nationally.”

Nationally, the EPA found that 79% of all assessments were rated Strong or Excellent in 2024, up from 59% in 2022, with notable gains in tackling illegal waste and improving construction and demolition waste management.

Waterford City & County Council has pledged to maintain its strong performance as it moves into the 2025–2027 cycle of the EPA’s Local Authority Performance Framework, ensuring continued progress and innovation in environmental protection across the county.

ENDS

22nd October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Free de-icing salt for schools ahead of Winter

De-icing salt on a road As winter approaches, Waterford City & County Council is offering schools across the county a supply of de-icing salt to help keep footpaths and access roads safe during icy conditions.

The Council will deliver the salt directly to participating schools, but each school must have a suitable bunker or storage area available on site to store it. Schools interested in receiving a supply are asked to email their request, including full contact details, to contact@waterfordcouncil.ie

21st October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council acquires site of the Lismore home of International Travel Writer

Waterford City and County Council has recently had the opportunity to acquire the site of the home of international travel writer, Dervla Murphy.

Lismore in County Waterford was home to one of its most famous daughters, Dervla Murphy, a woman ahead of her time in a man’s world doing incredible things.

Murphy travelled solo around the globe starting in 1965 in India, cycling everywhere she travelled, chronicling her adventures and over her lifetime published 26 books.

She was a modest person choosing to live a simple life and never sought the limelight despite her success as a writer. She always returned to her home in Lismore where most of her books were written and was deeply connected to the community. She passed away in May 2022 at the age of 90.

From a heritage perspective the site is hugely significant. There is the remnant of a 17th-century cattle market plus redeveloped outbuildings on 0.6 acres site located directly off the main street in the centre of Lismore.

It is not just the physical heritage that has value and opportunity. There is the intangible heritage, as the home of an international travel writer this is where Murphy retreated to from the four continents of the globe, organised her thoughts and produced volumes of insightful material, books on international issues pre the internet age.

This is the site from where she established the travel-writing festival, Immrama which has served Lismore well for almost 25 years.

The local community has campaigned to have the site preserved as a public building and develop the site as a cultural and heritage place. It has both national and international significance and its preservation will be an additional attraction to the beautiful Heritage Town of Lismore.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan welcomed the attainment of such a prestigious holding saying, “Dervla Murphy was a true trailblazer. At a time when the world was far less open to women traveling alone, she set out, alone, on a bicycle, crossing continents with nothing but determination, curiosity, and a deep thirst for understanding. What would be considered a remarkable journey today was, in the 1960s, a remarkable feat.

“She held a special place in her heart for Lismore and that affection was deeply reciprocated by the people of Lismore. Now, with the Council’s acquisition of the site of her beloved home, we are presented with a rare and wonderful opportunity to create a heritage space that not only honours Dervla’s remarkable legacy but also brings her writings, her global observations, and her boundless sense of adventure to life.”

The acquisition of the site has been financed by the Building and Land Acquisition Measure from the Department of Rural and Community Development & Gaeltacht. A survey and evaluation of the site will be undertaken, and a cultural heritage and development study will be commissioned to explore the range of options for development of the site.

Waterford City and County Council wishes to express its gratitude to the local community and to local auctioneer and valuer, Michael O’Leary, in their vision and assistance in the acquisition.

21st October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council warns of hazards of Halloween bonfires

With Halloween fast approaching Waterford City and County Council is appealing to the public to be aware of the hazards of bonfires and is also urging businesses not to supply any waste material to persons who do not hold a valid waste collection permit.

Niall Curtin, Chief Fire Officer, Waterford Fire Service issued a warning regarding the dangers of bonfires. “Halloween is a particularly busy time for Waterford Fire Service. Last year, Waterford fire brigades attended 20 bonfires and other outdoor fires on Halloween night and the weeks leading up to it.

“Bonfires have the potential to harm people with burns, inhalation of toxic fumes and injury from exploding cylinders and cannisters. In addition, every year we see community and amenity areas significantly damaged in the aftermath of such fires.”

Waterford Fire Service is providing some tips on having a safe and injury-free Halloween:

If you find yourself in an area where there is a bonfire,
Supervise children, don’t let them get too close to a fire as many Halloween costumes can easily ignite causing horrible injuries
Move away from the area if you see items being thrown onto the bonfire
Be careful if decorating your home. Keep lit candles away from combustible decorations.
Examine any decorative lighting and stop using them if you see damage or notice any overheating
The lead up to Halloween is always a good time to test smoke detectors in your home

Chief Curtin added, “Unfortunately, on more than one occasion we have been faced with anti-social behaviour at these fires. This behaviour has hindered fire personnel doing their jobs in a safe manner. Please allow our brigades to carry out their jobs safely. Injuries to firefighters and damage to vehicles may have an adverse impact on our ability to respond to other urgent emergencies in our community. For any fire emergencies over the Halloween period dial 112 / 999 and ask for the Fire Service immediately.”

The burning of waste in bonfires, and particularly the burning of highly combustible materials may lead to serious injuries or fatalities.

Niall Kane, Senior Executive Engineer with Waterford City and County Council Environment Department has requested that businesses or members of the public do not supply waste material to anyone who does not hold a valid waste collection permit.

“The uncontrolled burning of waste, particularly in bonfires, is illegal and releases toxic pollutants into the air, which are known to be damaging to our health and environment. The use of accelerants on bonfires can pose a significant safety risk and threat to the public. We would urge the public to report materials being hoarded such as pallets, tyres, combustible waste or old furniture, by getting in touch with the Council’s Waste Enforcement Section.”

Members of public are also advised not to buy, use or supply fireworks. Illegal fireworks may be manufactured without safety standards and can cause serious damage to users, particularly children.

Parents should monitor their children and ensure they do not play with fireworks. Throughout the country, every year children end up tragically injured and often scarred for life, after using illegal fireworks.

To report the storage and collection of materials for bonfires call Waterford City and County Council on 0818 10 20 20. Report fireworks to the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.

21st October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Strong line up for Waterford Writers Weekend 2025

The Arts and Library service of Waterford City and County Council has something for everyone with the Waterford Writers Weekend taking place in Dungarvan and Waterford city between October 23^rd and 26^th. Masterclasses and workshops with Ireland Professor of Poetry, Vona Groarke; the Irish Writers Centre series with Danielle McLaughlin and the schools programme is fully subscribed.

Highlights include much loved Waterford poets Thomas McCarthy and Molly Twomey reading from each other’s 2025 collections and in conversation with City and County Librarian, Mary Conway on the Friday evening in Central Library as a free event. Vanessa Fox O’ Loughlin has a session in the Waterford Gallery of Art on the Saturday afternoon on Getting Published, also free of charge. Speakeasy- Open Mic, the Waxed Lemon journal launch and announcement of the winners of the national Waterford Poetry Prize are much anticipated.

Dungarvan’s events include Croí, a free event in the Old Market House Arts Centre, Dungarvan on Thursday 23^rd October from 7pm. This concert is a musical and poetic response to the HeART of Gaza Children’s exhibition by renowned uilleann piper David Power and poet Áine Uí Fhoghlú. There is limited seating, so booking in advance is required. Details are in the festival programme about how to reserve seats for all events.

Poet Jessica Traynor has a workshop and reading in Dungarvan on the Saturday afternoon. On Saturday evening, the festival hosts the writer, director and actor Séamus O’ Rourke in conversation with Dymphna Nugent, WLRfm in the Arts Centre in Dungarvan. Séamus has over two million hits on YouTube and social media with his short stories, recitations and sketches. He recently released ‘A Lock of Poems, Recitations and Good Ones’ – a collection of his much-loved poems and recitations, he is well known as the author of the books ‘Standing in Gaps’ and ‘Leaning on Gates’. This event will be a conversation on his rural and writing life with Séamus reading from his work.

Festival Curator, Margaret Organ, Arts Officer explained, ‘This is just a taste of what the weekend has to offer with all events at low cost or no cost, using our own venues. This quality offering for both readers and writers is open and accessible to all’.

Details of the full Waterford Writers Weekend Programme and how to book for events in Dungarvan and Waterford city is now available on www.waterfordarts.com

21st October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Tramore hosts Sustainable Toy Swap & Play Event

Families in Tramore and further afield recently took part in a fun and eco-friendly Swap & Play event hosted by Waterford City and County Council and Tramore Tidy Towns in partnership with The Toy Library.

The Toy Library Swap & Play event on October 18^th at Tramore GAA Hall, provided children and families with the opportunity to swap pre-loved toys, engage in play, and learn about sustainability and reducing waste.

Mayor of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. Seamus Ryan said, “We are delighted to be hosting this Toy Swap as part of Climate Action Week, especially as it is International Repair Day today also. We are especially fortunate to be working with Tramore Tidy Towns on this initiative and couldn’t have pulled it together without them. I would like to say a special thanks to them for working with both us and the Toy Library to bring the event to fruition.

“Waterford has been taking part in the National Climate Action Week all week, with climate-themed events taking place for the public across the county. Reusing and swapping toys is a positive climate action.”

Mayor Ryan added, “A swap event is a great opportunity to learn about sustainability while providing children and families with the opportunity to swap pre-loved toys. These events are designed to promote toy reuse, reduce waste, and encourage Circular Economy actions in communities.”

Giorgia Anile, founder of The Toy Library, stated, “Play is a serious business. Our mission, as a social enterprise, is to drive radical change in the way we engage with toys, starting from children and their families. Toys are the most plastic intensive industry in the world, and most have a short shelf life.

“There are better ways to provide our kids with the variety of toys they need, while also caring for our planet. We are delighted to be working with Waterford City and County Council, which has demonstrated a serious commitment to climate action and sustainability for their youngest citizens.”

21st October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Winterval Road Closure arrangements

Winterval logo Waterford City & County Council has announced a series of temporary road closures to facilitate this year’s Winterval Christmas Festival, taking place from November 21st to December 23rd 2025.

Closures will affect areas around Arundel Square, Michael Street, Peter Street, O’Connell Street, John Roberts Square, the Viking Triangle, and other key festival zones on various dates throughout the festive season. These closures are necessary to ensure the safety of visitors and to accommodate Winterval events, including the Christmas Lights Switch-On, markets, and performances across the city centre.

Motorists are advised to plan ahead and follow all temporary signage and diversions. Access for residents and emergency vehicles will be maintained where possible.

📄 Full details, including dates and affected streets, can be found in the official notice here:

Winterval 2025 - Road Closures

20th October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council Approves Major Investment Proposal for Waterford Airport

Waterford City and County Council at a Special Council Meeting held today, Monday 20^th October 2025, has approved a landmark investment proposal that will secure the future of Waterford Airport and deliver a transformative €30 million redevelopment project – fully funded through private investment. The proposal, which was brought forward by the Bolster Group and is being advanced through a new company, Waterford Airport Ltd (WAL), will deliver the full Airport Development works set out in the existing Business Plan, without the need for Government funding. This includes a major runway extension and infrastructure upgrades that will enable the return of commercial passenger services to the airport.

Cllr. Seamus Ryan, Mayor of Waterford City and County, welcomed the decision, saying, “This is a historic day for Waterford and for the entire South East. Waterford Airport is a critical piece of regional infrastructure, and I am confident this €30 million investment will lead to a return of commercial air services to Waterford. This represents a huge vote of confidence in Waterford and is a game changer for the region. It will help us attract further inward investment, create jobs, drive tourism and bring the South East closer to the world.”

The Airport Development Works – estimated at €30 million – will commence early next year and will take approximately 12 months to complete. They include extending the existing runway to 2,287 metres and widening it to 45 metres so that it can land large jet planes, expanding car parking facilities and Terminal and ground equipment upgrades. The project will pave the way for the return of scheduled passenger services by the end of 2027, with a target of handling upwards of 400,000 passengers annually within five years, as set out in the Airport Business Plan.

Mayor Seamus Ryan added, “The Council has been steadfast in its support for Waterford Airport over many years. This investment represents the best possible outcome – securing the airport’s future, ending the requirement for ongoing Council subvention, and securing significant private investment without cost to the Exchequer. It will transform Waterford Airport into a commercially viable regional airport that serves over half a million people across the South East.”

The Council has approved three key resolutions to enable the investment, including the disposal of lands, and the waiving of a previous loan of €670,000. The Council made these decisions on strong economic and social grounds, as outlined in a report presented by the Council’s Chief Executive, Sean McKeown, including inward investment, improved regional connectivity and tourism.

The investment proposal removes the need for annual financial subvention from the Council. Since 2016, Waterford City & County Council has supported the airport’s operations through its revenue budget. The identity of the private investor remains confidential at this stage, but the investor’s legal representative, namely Mason, Hayes and Curran have confirmed that the investor is a US national with significant business interests and that they have the financial capacity to deliver the project. The Council were assured that the investment will be subject to FDI screening by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment under the Third Country Transactions Act 2023, to ensure it poses no national security or public order concerns, before it can proceed.

Sean McKeown, Waterford City and County Council Chief Executive said, “This investment will transform Waterford Airport into a fully functional and commercially viable regional airport, restoring direct air connectivity to the South-East. It will enhance the competitiveness of Waterford and the wider region in attracting investment and supporting high-value employment. It will also strengthen our tourism offering, support balanced regional development and enhance quality of life for people across the region.”

The Board of Waterford Regional Airport plc met in recent weeks, prior to the Special Council Meeting, to consider the proposal and they unanimously accepted the terms of the investment, which provides that the asset disposal to the new company – Waterford Airport Ltd – will facilitate the discharge of all existing commercial debts and liabilities of the airport. The proposal will also ensure the retention all employees and maintain the existing Search and Rescue (SAR) services as contracted for a further 10 years.

The Chairman of the existing Airport company, namely Michael Walsh, welcomed the decision today by Waterford City and County Council, saying, “I welcome the decision of the Council to support this investment proposal. I am confident the investment provides a clear and credible pathway to long-term commercial viability for the airport, while safeguarding existing jobs and strengthening the region’s connectivity. It reflects a shared vision between the Council, the Board and the new investor of Waterford Airport as a driver of economic growth and opportunity. The next step will be to convene an Extraordinary General Meeting of shareholders to consider the investment proposal. This is an important part of the process, and we will be issuing a recommendation to shareholders in the coming days to accept the investment proposal. Subject to their approval, we look forward to working with the investor to move swiftly into the delivery phase of the development.”

20th October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council shortlisted for National Age Friendly Recognition & Achievement Award 2025

St. Joseph's group

Waterford City and County Council is pleased to announce that St. Joseph’s House on Manor Hill has been shortlisted in the Safety & Security (Housing) Category of the National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards 2025.

St Joseph’s House was a former religious convent constructed by the Little Sisters of the Poor in 1874 who dedicated their lives to caring for the elderly. Today, St Joseph’s House is an age friendly housing development, designed for people aged 55 and over for a minimum of 25 years with a strong focus on tenant engagement.

In June 2023, the development on the landmark site of Manor Hill was officially opened by then Minister for Housing, Darragh O’Brien TD. The former convent was 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.

St. Joseph’s House provides age friendly housing appropriate to the needs of older adults in Waterford in line with Waterford Age Friendly Strategy as well as promoting and supporting independent living and ageing in place.

In addition, Waterford City and County Council provides onsite support to tenants through the employment of a Tenant Engagement Officer, whose role includes the development of tenancy supports and co-ordination of community, health and social supports. A tenants’ forum was also established, which ensures the continued development of a positive sense of community, as well as assisting in the development of supports/services for residents for the future.

Now in its ninth year, the National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards shine a spotlight on the people, projects, and partnerships driving real change for older people in towns, cities, and rural areas right across Ireland. Each shortlisted initiative has been selected for its impact, innovation, and potential to inspire similar efforts in other communities.

The award ceremony takes place in The Galmont Hotel and Spa in Galway on Thursday, October 23^rd, 2025.

-ends-

Image: Members of the National Age Friendly Recognition & Achievement Award Adjudication Panel, Waterford City and County Council staff members and stakeholders visiting St. Joseph’s House earlier this year.

20th October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Ard Scoil na nDéise joins Stride to School network

Ard Scoil na nDéise in Dungarvan proudly launched its Stride to School initiative on 16^th October 2025, becoming the latest school in the county to join the growing Stride to School network.

Stride to School is part of a wider active travel in schools campaign led by Waterford City and County Council in partnership with Waterford Sports Partnership.

As part of the Stride to School network, Ard Scoil na nDéise now stands alongside Dungarvan’s St. Augustine’s College, Tramore’s Ardscoil na Mara and Waterford City’s De La Salle College in promoting active, safe, and sustainable school commuting.

Located near Dungarvan town centre, the school is committed to encouraging more students to walk to school, aiming to ease congestion typically seen during busy drop-off and collection times.

In advance of the launch, a survey of Ard Scoil na nDéise students revealed that 14% of students currently walk to school, 38% take the bus, and the remainder travel by car. Interestingly, 44% of respondents live more than 10km from the school – a challenge Ard Scoil na nDéise is addressing by promoting safe and convenient drop and go locations as part of its Stride to School campaign. These allow students to walk part of the way, while also easing traffic at the school entrance and contributing to a calmer, safer, and healthier environment for both the school and the surrounding area.

Ciara Lucey, Principal at Ard Scoil na nDéise, said: “We are delighted to launch Stride to School and play our part in creating a safer, healthier school community. Even short walks before and after school can make a real difference to students’ focus and wellbeing.”

Julianne Foley and Shauna Kiernan, teachers and Stride to School coordinators at Ard Scoil na nDéise, said: “Our students have shown great enthusiasm in launching this initiative, and we’ve already seen more choosing to walk the last part of their journey. That’s a win for their health and for the atmosphere outside the school gates.”

Dylan White, Active Travel Communications and Behavioural Change Officer with Waterford City and County Council, said: “We’re thrilled to work with Ard Scoil na nDéise. Their proactive approach shows how schools can adapt to local challenges in a busy urban area and still prioritise active travel.”

Jordan Kelly, Community Sports Development Officer with Waterford Sports Partnership, said: “The enthusiasm from the students has been fantastic. This initiative supports so much more than physical fitness – it’s about mental wellbeing, social connection, and building a positive routine into the school day.”

19th October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

City of Light – Karen Nolan

The 3 Sisters reimagines the vital role of the River Suir in shaping Waterford City’s cultural, historical and social landscape over the centuries. The Suir and its sister rivers — the Nore and the Barrow — are brought to life as water spirits, symbolising togetherness, collaboration and the strength that flows from shared heritage and creativity.

Come and see this stunning piece in person and experience how Karen’s work celebrates the spirit and connection of the three rivers that define our region.

To see more of Karen’s work visit: https://karennolandesign.ie/

18th October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

RESET Pilot Well-Being Programme for Workplace Intervention Launches in Waterford

The Southern Regional Assembly has been selected as the first organisation to participate in the RESET Pilot Well-being Programme for Teams, a new initiative to address workplace well-being at its root cause: people’s self-image and their early life experiences.

Developed by international coach and author Doug Dane, RESET is based on his acclaimed book Mistaken Identity. The program helps individuals and teams break free from limiting beliefs, strengthen resilience, and align who they are with how they live and work.

The pilot is being delivered in partnership with Healthy Waterford (an initiative within Waterford City & County Council). Key insights into the Waterford business landscape were initially provided by the Waterford Chamber of Commerce. In addition, the RESET programme has submitted a bid for EU Research funding in 2026. This bid, in partnership with the Walton Institute, and Waterford-based microbiome company BiomiCare, aims to further enhance scientific data on the exploration of mind and gut health.

Following an application process, the Southern Regional Assembly (one of three regional-level bodies that form the regional tier +-

+of government in the Republic of Ireland) was selected as the first organisation to host the pilot.

Eoin Morrissey, Healthy Waterford City & County Coordinator, said: “Well-being is created in the places where we live and work. Work takes up a huge percentage of where we spend our time. The RESET programme aligns with Healthy Waterford’s mission to support workplaces in becoming healthier, more resilient environments. This is a further example of our ongoing collaboration to advance the good work of promoting well-being and health leadership in the region”

Linda Barry, Project Lead, Workplace Wellbeing Facilitator and Lifestyle Consultant, added: “Partnering with Healthy Waterford to bring this pilot to Waterford has been a passion of mine since I first encountered Doug’s work and his book Mistaken Identity. Its prescription for healthy mental living and lifestyle balance is an innovative solution that every business should make available to employees.”

Pauline Toomey, Assistant Staff Officer HR & Finance, Southern Regional Assembly, said: “We are delighted to be the chosen organisation for the RESET Pilot. It’s a great opportunity to support our staff and strengthen our workplace culture. Our goal is to empower our people — we believe this pilot will help us achieve that and give us greater awareness of our true potential.”

Doug Dane, Creator of RESET, said: “We are excited to partner with the Southern Regional Assembly as the first RESET pilot site. This is more than another wellness initiative — it’s a transformational approach that empowers leaders and employees to take control of their thinking and mental health, improving both workplace culture and organisational impact.”

The RESET Pilot Programme officially launched on October 8th, 2025, at the Southern Regional Assembly in Waterford, with sessions running through November. Results and insights will be shared with partners and will inform the wider rollout of RESET across Ireland, the UK, and Europe. A second phase of the pilot will also be offered later this year to the original applicants.

“We were truly impressed by the calibre of leaders who came forward to support employee well-being,” said Doug Dane. “This inspired us to create a special secondary pilot, supported by Healthy Waterford, to give more organisations a chance to experience RESET.”

17th October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Published: Weekly Planning Lists

Stay up-to-date with the latest planning applications and decisions in Waterford City and County. Each Friday, we publish a comprehensive list detailing new applications, permissions granted, and other updates. Access the latest planning lists here to stay informed about developments in your area.

See https://waterfordcouncil.ie/documents/planning-lists/

17th October 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

RSA Road Safety Shuttle visits Waterford

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) Interactive Road Safety Shuttle visited Waterford this week, where students from secondary schools had the opportunity to experience immersive VR technology which highlighted critical road safety issues.

Supported by Waterford City and County Council, the RSA Interactive Road Shuttle’s visit to Waterford gave students the opportunity to take part in an immersive experience focusing on addressing killer behaviours on our roads such as speeding, driver distraction, fatigue and driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Students from Waterpark College, Newtown Secondary School and Wexford & Waterford Education and Training Board (WWETB) tried out some of the latest simulations to raise awareness about road safety. Throughout the day, students were able to experience a VR film Distractions, which gives users the experience of a crash and the devastation caused by looking at a phone-screen when driving, test their brake reaction time and practice driving and hazard perception.

They also had the opportunity to test the Roll Over simulator, a car-unit that simulates a 90-degree and 180-degree roll-over, highlighting the importance of wearing a seatbelt correctly.

Gabriel Hynes, Acting Director of Services, Waterford City and County Council said, “During Irish Road Safety Week, Waterford City and County Council drivers undertook the same safety awareness training, and to say it was hard-hitting would be an understatement. The VR simulation of the consequences of distracted driving really left an impression.

“In continuing our support of Irish Road Safety Week, we were glad to be able to provide this impactful and insightful experience about road safety to students. If, through this initiative, there is one less fatality on our roads, then it will have been a very worthwhile exercise.”

Jemma Jacob, Road Safety Officer with Waterford City and County Council added, “In May this year, Waterford City and County Council, in conjunction with the Waterford Road Safety Working Together Group (WRSWTG) launched the Waterford Road Safety Action Plan 2024-2030. The plan is aligned to the 2020 Programme for government commitment to achieve ‘Vision Zero’ – no fatalities or serious injuries on our roads by 2050.

“If, through initiatives such as the RSA Road Shuttle, we can make road users, particularly younger users more aware of critical road safety issues, we can and will make our roads safer for everyone.”