Latest News & Announcements - Waterford City & County Council

17th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Enormous Hebo 9 crane arrives in Waterford

This morning, under a sunny blue sky, the mighty Hebo 9 floating crane arrived off the coast of Dunmore East – marking an important moment in Waterford’s North Quays transformation.

Towed by the aptly named tug Dutch Power, the HEBO barge sailed into view with the colossal crane secured on deck. Towering and awe-inspiring, the Hebo 9 has now docked at Frank Cassin Wharf, where it awaits the arrival of additional barges carrying bridge sections.

The crane will then begin the detailed task of lifting those sections into place over the River Suir, forming the new Sustainable Transport Bridge – a centrepiece of the North Quays Public Infrastructure Project.

The HEBO Lift 9 is a seagoing floating sheerleg crane with a lifting capacity of 800 tonnes. Measuring approximately 67 metres in length and 27 metres in width, it is equipped with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing for precise manoeuvring during complex lifting operations.

Stay tuned and keep your eyes on the water – it’s a #SuirSpectacle you won’t want to miss.

Images: Peter Grogan – Creadan

16th May 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/

16th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

“In Bed I Cut Words” by artist Corina Duyn launched for Arts in Nursing Homes Day.

Nursing Homes Day

Artist Corina Duyn celebrated the launch of the paperback version of her latest publication In Bed I Cut Words as part of Arts In Nursing Homes Day, which took place on Friday, May 16^th.

Corina has been living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) for 26 years, and In Bed I Cut Words is her latest artistic response to having to surrender her independent life and move to full-time care at the relatively young age of 59 in 2021.

This beautiful and arresting publication showcases Corina’s collages along with poems, prose and thoughts from fellow artists, poets and health professionals. Copies of the book will be distributed free of charge to a variety of arts and health practitioners, arts offices and public libraries, thanks to the generous support of Waterford City and County Council and the Irish Hospice Foundation. Further information is available from www.corinaduyn.com

Artist, writer and puppet designer/maker Corina Duyn has been making puppets since her first rag doll, at the age of 10. She became ill with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) aged 36.

The increasing limitations imposed by her illness took an increasing toll on her daily and creative lives and, having finally accepted that she could no longer live independently, Corina moved to Signacare Nursing Home in Waterford.

Realising that she needed to take action to somehow maintain her creative spirit – “there is always a way” – Corina issued a plea to her friends and contacts to help her to continue her art practice. This resulted in Waterford Healing Arts introducing artist Caroline Schofield to Corina, and so began a remarkable collaboration which culminated in the ground-breaking exhibition I brought the dream of flying at GOMA Gallery of Modern Art in Waterford, in 2023, supported by Waterford Healing Arts and Creative Waterford. The exhibition later moved to Creative Brain Week at the Naughton Institute, Trinity College Dublin.

As Corina’s ME continued to restrict her physical ability, collage became an essential means for her to continue making art and expressing herself creatively. A collection of collages on the theme of Home, which began as part of the I brought the dream of flying exhibition, continued to grow, resulting the self-published hardback edition of In Bed I Cut Words. Such was the demand for this stunning publication, designed by David Murphy in Red Heaven Design, the decision was made to publish a paperback version, made possible through the generous support of Waterford City and County Council and the Irish Hospice Foundation.

In Bed I Cut Words is a visual and literary treat, but one which also poses important questions, challenging the concept of ‘Home’, and illustrating the impact of home being a place where someone must live when they cannot live where they wish. Waterford City and County Council, along with the Irish Hospice Foundation and Waterford Healing Arts, have been delighted to continue to support this important work by this extraordinary artist.

Katherine Collins, Creative Waterford Coordinator said, “‘In Bed I Cut Words’ is a challenging work exploring the realities of being a creator in a care home setting, exploring what ‘home’ means to the creative spirit and body amongst other considerations. It challenges us, the audience, to consider what it is to be a younger person living in a space that cannot necessarily meet all her needs – to be able to create, to collaborate, to communicate.

Waterford City and County Council’s Creative Ireland Programme supported the exhibition of Corina’s exhibition I brought the dream of flying in 2023 and we are delighted to continue this relationship by providing funding for the paperback print of her latest title. The Creative Communities pillar of Creative Ireland strives to ensure that participation in and access to creativity and culture is equal in all aspects of life; by supporting Corina’s work and bringing it to a wider audience we hope that a wider conversation can take place about how to support people’s creative expression in whatever settings they find themselves.”

Claire Meaney, Director of Réalta which manages the Waterford Healing Arts programme, said “It has been our absolute privilege to support Corina’s work over many years, in particular since she moved into full-time care and developed the unique collaboration with artist Caroline Schofield. The strength and clarity of Corina’s artistic voice is inspiring on its own, but when we consider this determination in the context of her many challenges, it is abundantly clear that Corina is a true artist: she quite simply must make art in order to survive.”

16th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Tramore beach regains Blue Flag Status

2025 Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards Recognise Ireland’s Best Beaches and Marinas

99 Blue Flags and 70 Green Coast Awards awarded in 2025

Today, An Taisce announced the International Blue Flag and Green Coast Award recipients for 2025. The awards were presented by Mr. James Browne TD – Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage at the presentation ceremony held in the Ravenport Resort in Curracloe, County Wexford this afternoon.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Browne, who presented the award flags said, “Given that the Blue Flag programme is an internationally recognised symbol of high standards in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and safety, I am honoured to present a record number of awards today – 99 Blue Flags and 70 Green Coast Awards.

“We’ve come a long way since the beginning of Ireland’s Blue Flag awards in 1988, when 19 beaches and 2 marinas were recognised.

“This didn’t happen by magic. Great credit must go to local authorities, An Taisce, coastal communities and particularly all those local volunteers who have worked tirelessly around the country to keep so many of our coastal areas, beaches and marinas in pristine condition for us all to enjoy.

“Presenting these awards on a great day in Curracloe and – in the current good weather – anticipating the happy days ahead for so many families on this very beach over the summer, I am particularly proud that the beautiful beaches and marinas from around my own home county of Wexford are amongst those recognised today.”

Ms. Cathy Baxter, Director of Education and Community Action at An Taisce said, “We were delighted to be back in the sunny Southeast once again, to present The Blue Flag and Green Coast Award Flags for the 2025 season. There are an unprecedented number of sites receiving awards this year. We would like to congratulate all the Local Authorities, marina operators and Clean Coasts groups responsible for managing the awarded beaches and marinas to the excellent standards required. I would also like to thank Wexford County Council for hosting us here in Curracloe today.”

Waterford’s coastline fared well as four beaches were awarded the prestigious Blue Flag – Ardmore, Clonea, Tramore beaches and Counsellor’s Strand, Dunmore East. The Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised environmental awards. Originating in France in 1985 it was launched as an international programme as part of the “European Year of the Environment in 1987. In 1988, the first-year sites were awarded outside of France 19 beaches and 2 marinas received the Blue Flag in Ireland.

County Waterford also received six green accolades with Newtown Cove, Guillamene Cove, Kilfarrassey, Ballyquin, Curragh and Goat Island Beach all receiving a Green Coast Award, which recognises beaches for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty.

Dawn Wallace, Environment SEO with Waterford City and County Council said, “We are particularly delighted that Tramore Beach regained its Blue Flag status. It was one of three beaches nationally that did not retain its Blue Flag for 2024. So, to not only regain the flag, but to record an ‘excellent’ rating is great news for locals and tourists alike as they flock to the coast this summer.

“Counsellor’s Strand in Dunmore East recorded vastly improved water quality, also securing an ‘excellent’ rating, which is testament to the work of the Council and local environmental groups.”

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy also commended not only the Local Authority’s Environment Department, but also the work of voluntary groups that dedicate themselves to ensuring an unspoilt environment for all to enjoy.

“The work of volunteers from groups such as Clean Coasts, Tidy Towns, and ecological groups, have made huge inroads in assisting in the maintenance and management of our coastline and its amenities.

“These volunteers are passionate about preserving our natural environment, whether it’s through litter picking, wildlife conservation management or developing educational programmes. By enhancing our natural amenities, they are heightening the enjoyment we can all derive from our beaches and coastline.”

16th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Pride of the Déise 2025 Announces Full 13-Day Festival Programme

Waterford’s grassroots LGBTQIA+ festival returns 1–13 June with a packed schedule of inclusive, community-focused events.

WATERFORD, IRELAND

12th May 2025

Pride of the Déise, Waterford’s volunteer-led LGBTQIA+ festival, has announced the full programme for its sixth annual celebration. Taking place from 1 to 13 June 2025, this year’s festival offers 13 days of community-driven events, performances, workshops, and gatherings – with a strong focus on accessibility and inclusion.

The majority of events are free or subsidised, reflecting the festival’s commitment to removing financial barriers and ensuring all members of the LGBTQIA+ community can participate.

Amy O’Riordan, Chairperson, says: “As a community-run festival, Pride of the Déise is rooted in the values of accessibility, solidarity, and joy. We know that real inclusion means removing barriers – financial, social, and structural – so that everyone in our LGBTQIA+ community can take part, not just a few. That’s why we’ve worked hard this year to ensure the majority of our events are free or low-cost, and that our spaces reflect the needs of the people we serve. Pride belongs to all of us, and we’re proud to keep building it together, here in Waterford. We’re very grateful to Waterford City and County Council for their continued support through the festival grant fund which enables us to create these spaces across the city and county.”

The festival opens on Sunday 1 June with Oíche Draíochta: An Evening of Queer Magic & Mischief, a unique and immersive event blending performance, protest, and celebration in a rural location. Transport from Waterford City will be provided for guests, included in the ticket costs as well as a cocktail or mocktail on arrival, and finger food.

“Traditionally, we wouldn’t recommend eating or drinking in the Otherworld – but don’t worry, the wards are strong and everything’s above board! We’re incredibly excited about this unique event, set in the historic surroundings of a former Famine workhouse at Coach House Coffee in Kilmacthomas, just off the Waterford Greenway in the heart of the Déise hills,” says Lora O’Brien, POTD’s PRO and Irish folklore expert. “We have some amazing performers lined up, as well as three fabulous categories for our ballroom-style catwalks: Fae Realness, Legendary Royals, and Púca Punk. Whether you’re serving glamour, myth, or mischief, there’s a category for you. And yes – there will be prizes, so bring your best and leave it all on the runway!”

A wide-ranging programme follows, including:

● Pride March and Block Party (Saturday 7 June): The festival’s flagship day begins with a community breakfast, followed by the Pride March through Waterford City. The day continues with the annual Block Party in the Cultural Quarter featuring live music, performances, a growing Queer Market of artists and makers, and a Quiet Space in partnership with Neuropride Ireland at Waterford Gallery of Art.

● Sober Roller Disco (Wednesday 11 June): In partnership with Southland Sirens Roller Derby, this inclusive, alcohol-free event offers a fun and welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ people to connect and celebrate.

● LGBT+ History Talks (Monday 9 June): An online evening event exploring Ireland’s LGBTQIA+ histories and stories, highlighting resilience, activism, and cultural memory.

● Poetry Workshop with Sasha Terfous (Wednesday 4 June): A creative writing workshop at Waterford Central Library led by acclaimed poet and spoken word artist Sasha Terfous.

● Queer Tramore Beach Meetup (Thursday 5 June): A casual social gathering hosted by Queer Tramore, a new local group creating space for LGBTQIA+ community at the seaside.

● Hope and Courage Collective Workshop (Tuesday 3 June): A workshop focused on understanding and countering far-right narratives, and building collective resilience.

● Wikipedia Workshop (Thursday 12 June): Hosted by Wikimedia Community Ireland, this bilingual Irish-English event invites participants to help increase LGBTQIA+ visibility online by contributing to Vicipéid (as Gaeilge) or Wikipedia (in English.)

“Pride is for everyone in our community, which is why we’ve made it a priority to engage with as many voices as possible. Earlier this year, we launched an open call for ideas and collaborations – the result is a programme shaped by community input, reflecting a wide range of interests, ages, and identities,” say Gwen, Events Team Lead. “One event I’m especially proud of is our collaboration with the Hope and Courage Collective. As the rise in fascism and hatred continues to target our community, we believe the most powerful response is collective action rooted in solidarity, hope – and yes, a bit of queer love. Looking ahead, we’re excited to keep the momentum going beyond June. Our first Winter Pride community day took place last December, and we’re planning even more regular meetups and events throughout the year with our growing committee and wider community.”

The festival closes on Friday 13 June with Lash Out: Pride Edition, a high-energy drag show and final celebration, featuring performances from across the region and beyond.

In addition, Pride of the Déise will be launching a call for submissions during the festival for the Queer Vision Film Festival, which this year will be held as a standalone autumn event. The festival team is inviting queer filmmakers to submit works for consideration in what has become a much-anticipated cultural strand of the Pride programme.

Pride of the Déise is proudly supported by the Waterford City and County Council Festivals Grant Fund and continues to operate as a 100% volunteer-run initiative, built by and for the

local LGBTQIA+ community. For full event listings, booking links, and accessibility details, visit www.prideofthedeise.ie – and keep an eye on our socials! There will be more casual meet up events added to the schedule over the next couple of weeks to bring the community together. For press enquiries or interview requests, please contact prideofthedeise@gmail.com

16th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Boil Water Notice lifted for Poulnagunogue (Poulavanogue) Public Water Supply in County Waterford

Uisce Éireann wishes to notify customers supplied by Poulavonogue Public Water Supply following satisfactory sampling results, the Boil Water Notice is now lifted with immediate effect. This decision follows consultation undertaken with the Health Service Executive (HSE).

All consumers on the Poulavonogue Public Water Supply can now resume normal use of the water supply for drinking, food preparation and brushing teeth.

Please note that there are two Poulavonogue supplies in the Clonmel area. This notice relates to the small scheme historically managed by Waterford County Council.

The Boil Water Notice was issued on 15 April to protect the health of customers.

Drinking water experts from Uisce Éireann worked hard to lift the notice for impacted customers as quickly and as safely as possible.

Uisce Éireann’s Maura Phelan, acknowledged the impact of the notice on the community, adding: “Uisce Éireann regrets the inconvenience that the Boil Water Notice had on the community. I would like to thank them for their patience and support while our drinking water experts worked to lift the Boil Water Notice as quickly as it was safe to do so. I would also like to thank the local councillors and the media for their assistance in sharing the information during the period of this boil water notice.”

Uisce Éireann and the Health Service Executive Water Liaison Group will continue to meet and will review ongoing process control, monitoring and testing of the drinking water supply.

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

Uisce Éireann’s customer care team is available to help 24/7 on 1800 278 278 and customers can also contact us on X @IWCare with any queries. For further updates, visit the service and supply section of www.water.ie

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 the text alerts page.

15th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Neale Richmond launches event programme for Africa Day 2025

Africa Day 2025

Africa Day Waterford to take place on Saturday 24^th May 2025

The Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond TD, has launched the nationwide programme of events for Africa Day 2025. This year’s Africa Day Waterford will take place on Saturday, May 24^th from 11am to 4pm at Waterford Cultural Quarter / O’Connell St.

As part of Africa Day Waterford, there will be live music, arts & crafts, market stalls, Active Cities/Playful Streets, Wobbly Circus, Nore Valley Farm Petting Zoo, drumming, dancing, storytelling and much more.

Africa Day is the annual worldwide celebration of the people, cultures, and potential of the African continent. This year, all 31 Local Authorities across Ireland will host various cultural, artistic, and family-friendly events. These will include contemporary African Irish culture, as well as family fun days, fashion, art, film, music, dance, and food events, which will take place in towns and cities across Ireland.

Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond T.D., said, “I am honoured to help launch this fantastic event that celebrates the rich cultures of the African continent. Ireland has growing trade, political and cultural links across the continent of Africa. There is also a large Irish African community, who are making significant contributions to our society and economy in towns and villages throughout Ireland.

“This day is an opportunity to promote those links and learn more about African cultures. I am delighted that local authorities across Ireland will be taking part in Africa Day 2025 and look forward to vibrant celebrations nationwide.”

For more information about Africa Day 2025 visit www.AfricaDay.ie or follow Africa Day on social media.

15th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council launches Road Safety Action Plan

Waterford City and County Council, in conjunction with the Waterford Road Safety Working Together Group (WRSWTG) recently launched the Waterford Road Safety Action Plan 2024-2030.

In collaboration with An Garda Síochána, Road Safety Authority, Health Service Executive and Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the six-year action plan is designed to improve road safety for all road users.

Speaking at the launch of the plan, Sean McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council said, “The objective of this action plan is, simply put, to make our roads safer for everyone who uses them.

“From 2013 to 2023, Waterford tragically lost 35 people on its roads. In addition, according to the Road Safety Authority, for every one fatality, nine individuals endure life-altering injuries. That number can never be low enough. In fact the only acceptable number is zero.

“Aligning to the 2020 Programme for government commitment to achieve ‘Vision Zero’ – no fatalities or serious injuries on our roads by 2050 – the Safety Action Plan focuses on several key areas including safe roads, safe speeds, post-crash response and safe modes of transport.”

Sam Waide, CEO, Road Safety Authority said, “Ireland has made significant progress over the lifetime of previous road safety strategies. Since the launch of the first ever Road Safety Strategy in 1998, road deaths have declined by almost 70%. None of that progress could have been possible without our key stakeholders working together in a coordinated, strategic way.

“Reducing road deaths and serious injuries by 50% over the next decade is achievable. Vision Zero by 2050 is achievable. We can do it. Given our road safety journey to date, no target is too ambitious for us. The starting point is recognising that road deaths or serious injuries should not be the price to pay for our mobility.”

Through collective knowledge and experience the objectives of WRSWTG are to:

Make the roads in County Waterford safer for all road users.
Increase public awareness of road safety.
Promote a collective sense of responsibility towards road safety.
Enforce existing traffic legislation.
Improve co-operation between the agencies represented on the Waterford Road Safety Working Together Group
Support the principles of the National Road Safety Strategy 2020 – 2027

The Waterford Road Safety Action Plan 2024-2030 is available at Waterford City and County Council offices at Bailey’s New Street (X91 XH42), Civic Offices, Davitt’s Quay, Dungarvan (X35 Y326), all Waterford Libraries throughout the city and county and Waterford City and County Council website at www.waterfordcouncil.ie/services/roads-transport/road-safety/

15th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford Rural Tourism Network Learning Journey to the Waterford Estuary

The Waterford Rural Tourism Network’s most recent Learning Journey took place on May 7^th.

It was a day full of insightful stories, unique activities and delicious food all set against the backdrop of the stunning Waterford Estuary. This was the fourth in a series of Learning Journeys taking place across the five cluster areas of the Blackwater Valley, Comeragh, Copper Coast, Gaeltacht na nDéise, and Waterford Estuary.

The Learning Journey gives local businesses the opportunity to develop a greater understanding of the tourism experiences and products located in the Waterford Estuary, with a view to strengthening relationships between businesses, creating itineraries for visitors, and promoting Waterford as a destination.

Thirty participants from Waterford’s tourism businesses and agencies were guided along the journey by Andrew Doherty of Tides & Tales. Andrew enlightened the participants about the history and heritage of the area and was an incredibly knowledgeable and engaging tour guide.

At Jack Meade’s Andrew recounted the history of the landmark pub which dates back to 1705 and how locals harnessed the power of the tides to run the flour mill.

The second stop saw the group welcomed to Cheekpoint by Julie Doherty, The Cake Dame. Julie prepared some of the most delicious fayre for the participants to enjoy at the Suir Inn.

Nancy, Jack and William Doherty who are working on a fascinating River Tourism project ‘The Reaper Revival’ informed the group about their restoration works, which will give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the traditional fishing methods and the local maritime history of the area while onboard.

The group took to the water with Southeast Charters Captain Walter & Osprey Viking Cruises Captain Andy. On the boats the participants travelled along the Estuary and learned about the history of the people and the place as well as the bespoke tours that both companies create for visitors.

Back on land, next stop was Passage East where the group received a ‘guard of honour’ from the Passage East Goats upon arrival. The group met Seán Furlong in The New Geneva, who gave the group a fascinating history lesson about Passage East, including the 1798 rebellion and the ‘Cockle women’.

Travelling along the Estuary to the Saratoga in Woodstown where the group were able to look at and learn about the oyster farms.

Martina O’Byrne of Artform in Dunmore East then welcomed the group to her gallery and showcased some the talented artists that she works with. She also spoke of how the Estuary and the local environment impact the art that is produced there.

A delicious seafood lunch at East Pier, organised by Elaine Power, was followed by a walk to the Shanooan where stories of the local fishing community were shared, with the cliff walk being highlighted before walking to the Dunmore East Adventure Centre.

At the Dunmore East Adventure Centre Karen Harris introduced the participants to the Aquapark and the harbour where locals and tourists were busy kayaking, paddle boarding and sailing. For the land activities there is everything from a caving adventure, a ropes course, climbing walls and archery.

The group met with The Fitness Beach Bum, Katie Sweeney, whose goal is to guide people to living a healthier lifestyle, through strength and conditioning, boxercise and personal training.

This Learning Journey to Waterford Estuary is part of the Waterford Rural Tourism Network development programme which is funded and supported by Waterford City and County Council and Fáilte Ireland and delivered by Runda Hospitality and Tourism Solutions.

If you would like to find out more about the Waterford Rural Tourism Network or join one of the five Clusters in Waterford, please email caroline@runda.ie.

14th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Imminent arrival of Sustainable Transport Bridge significant milestone in North Quays Public Infrastructure Project

The imminent arrival of the bridge’s steel superstructure from its fabrication plant in Belgium will mark a significant progress milestone for Waterford’s North Quays Public Infrastructure Project. The superstructure is due to arrive in Waterford in the coming weeks for lifting and installation.

In parallel with the construction of the bridge substructure in the river in Waterford, the steel superstructure has been in the process of manufacture in Victor Buyck’s bespoke steel fabrication plant in Belgium.

The slender and streamlined superstructure has been architecturally designed, with a curved soffit on the underside, and varying width along its length to allow for viewing/resting areas etc. This bespoke shape makes it ideal for precision factory fabrication. The superstructure has been fabricated in four sections, which will be supported on the four concrete piers already constructed in the river.

The bridge has a central opening bascule span to facilitate river traffic. The operation and control of the central opening span has required the manufacture and assembly of mechanical, hydraulic and electrical components and instrumentation.

Qualter Hall, based in England, is the subcontractor responsible for this work, and the automated system has been installed into the fabricated bridge sections by Qualter Hall’s engineers at the Victor Buyck factory. The bridge sections will therefore arrive on site fully fitted with mechanical and electrical units. Once the steel deck sections are in position and connected, the automated system for opening and closing the central span will be activated and tested.

The transport, lifting and installation of the four steel deck sections is a complex logistical and engineering challenge. The transport and lifting operations have been sub-contracted to Hebo, a Dutch company that specialises in these operations for bridges, shipping, ports, offshore wind turbines, etc.

The four bridge sections will be transported on two barges pulled by seagoing tugboats. Victor Buyck’s plant is located beside the Ghent–Terneuzen Canal which accesses out to the North Sea. The deck sections will be loaded onto barges, transported along the canal to the mouth of Antwerp Port and from there on open sea via the North Sea, English Channel and Celtic Sea to Waterford Estuary.

Subject to favourable weather and sea conditions, in particular wave height, this journey will take four to five days to complete. The tugboats will then transport the barges up the Waterford Estuary, past Dunmore East and Passage East to their first mooring point at Belview Port.

Separately, Hebo’s floating sheerleg crane, which will complete the lifting operation on site, will also be transported by sea to Belview Port. The transport of the barges and crane up Waterford Estuary will be closely coordinated with the Port of Waterford. Their onward voyage upstream from Belview Port to the bridge site will be scheduled during high incoming tides. Once on site it will take a couple of days to derig and mobilise the barges into their lifting positions. The four deck sections will then be lifted into position by the crane.

Temporary support frames that have been constructed in the river will initially support the sections pending their final integration into the permanent supporting piers. Safety is of paramount importance, and the lifting operation has very precise safety protocols and requires very slow and methodical progress with constant checks and monitoring during the operation.

The floating crane and barges will depart from Ghent this week, arriving in Belview Port & the North Quays site next week. Once derigged and mobilised, the lifting and installation of the four bridge sections will then proceed in the final week of May. The four lifts will be carried out over three to four days, thereafter the tugboats, barges and floating crane will be demobilised and depart.

The timelines for the operation are subject to change and disruption depending on conditions on the open seas.

The public infrastructure project is being developed ahead of the private SDZ development and the built interface between the two developments must be fully integrated and compatible.

The fast-tracking of integration works as part of construction of the SDZ will facilitate the opening of the bridge to the public in Q4 2026.

For further information visit www.waterfordnorthquays.ie

Image attached: Paul Poels Fotografie

14th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

RSA Urges Road Users to Be Aware of Sun Glare

Vision Zero

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging all road users to be aware of the dangers posed by sun glare as the sunny clear weather is set to continue this week.

Sun glare can result in drivers being temporarily blinded or dazzled by the intensity and brightness of the sun.

As clear, sunny conditions continue and high temperatures are forecast over the coming days, the RSA advises drivers to:

· Reduce the risk from sun glare and of being dazzled by wearing sunglasses.

· Be aware of the dangers of sun glare when travelling east in the mornings and west later in the day.

· Be prepared and ensure you have adequate supplies of water; any delays to journeys could result in road users being stuck in traffic for a period of time in hot conditions. Children and pets are particularly at risk during these hot spells of weather.

· Ensure your windscreen is clear of grease or grime inside and out. Make sure you have plenty of window washer fluid to clear flies/insects and excess dust from the road when driving.

· Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists. Slow down and allow extra space when passing.

Sun glare affects all road users. Pedestrians, people who cycle and motorcyclists are advised to:

· Beware of the dangers that sun glare can cause, especially when crossing the road and at junctions.

· Use sun block when out walking and cycling.

Summertime is the most dangerous time of the year on our roads. In the summer, when there are no obvious dangers, and the weather is fine and days are brighter, we drop our guard.

There can be a spike in pedestrian, people who cycle and motorcyclist casualties over the summer months as the fine weather brings more people out and about. As drivers, we need to be on the lookout for them. Slow down and expect the unexpected.

Please also see our sun glare weather warning video created in collaboration with Teresa Mannion here

For advice on severe weather driving tips, please see severe weather advice on the RSA website or check out the RSA Facebook and Twitter pages

14th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Foley announces €500,000 in funding for playgrounds around the country

Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, has today announced that €500,000 has been awarded for 28 playgrounds and play areas around the country.

The Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation provides funding to support city and county councils in upgrading existing playgrounds or developing new playgrounds.
Many of the projects funded under this year’s scheme give particular focus to inclusion and access and will help to ensure that children with a diverse range of needs can avail of the benefits of high-quality play facilities alongside their peers. Some of these funded projects include the installation of:

Wheelchair-accessible seesaws
Inclusive Sensory Playground Equipment and inclusive play space
Upgraded accessibility features

Minister Foley said: “I am delighted to announce this capital funding that will directly benefit families and children in every corner of Ireland. These grants will enable city and county councils to create and upgrade playgrounds, making them more accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. I want to take this opportunity to extend my thanks to the local authorities for their applications and I look forward to seeing the benefits these projects will provide to local communities for many years to come.”

The scheme offers maximum funding of up to €20,000 per project, an investment that will see positive impacts delivered to children and families across the country.
It was obligatory for councils to consult with local children and young people to receive any grant funding for playgrounds and play areas under the scheme. Councils also had to provide matching funding of at least 25 per cent of the cost of the project.

The provision of playgrounds for young children has improved in recent years with around 960 playgrounds available in 31 councils around the country.

Full Press Release

ENDS

13th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Europe Day Celebrated by Europe Direct Waterford & Team Europe

Europe Day, celebrated annually on May 9^th, marks the anniversary of the historic Schuman Declaration. The Schuman Declaration is the proposal considered to have laid the foundation for what is now the European Union. Ireland became a member of the EU in 1973. Europe Day serves as a symbol of peace and unity in Europe, celebrating the progress made through cooperation, solidarity, and shared values.

To mark this year’s celebrations, Europe Direct Waterford hosted a range of engaging events in collaboration with Waterford Libraries, Team Europe, European Commission and local schools.

A key highlight was a seminar presented by Gerard Arthurs of Team Europe at St. Paul’s Community College. Fifty senior cycle students and teachers attended the event, which was made possible thanks to the support of Hilary Cantwell, JCSP School Librarian. Mr. Arthurs, lecturer in International Relations and Politics at SETU, delivered a thought-provoking seminar titled “An Experiment in Integration to Transform our Political Economy and Society.”

Students of Economics, Geography, and History explored a wide range of topics, including the EU as an experiment in integration, its transformative impact on the Irish state, current challenges and opportunities, and the future of the European Union. Both Europe Direct Waterford and St. Paul’s Community College extend their sincere thanks to Mr. Arthurs for an impartial, insightful, and stimulating session, and look forward to continued collaboration in future events.

In another Europe Day activity, sixty 6th class students from Mount Sion visited Europe Direct Waterford at Central Library. During their visit, they received goody bags branded with the Europe Direct logo and participated in engaging discussions about the history and significance of Europe Day.

These events provided meaningful opportunities for students of all ages to deepen their understanding of the European Union and to celebrate the shared values that unite member states.

The Europe Direct Information Centre based in Central Library, Waterford City, is one of a network of local contact points that serve as the direct link between you and the EU Institutions. The Europe Direct Information Centre is a service which helps you find answers to your questions about the European Union.

Team Europe Direct is a network of independent and inspirational speakers and moderators, proficient in EU topics and communication, capable of conveying the activities of the EU to a broad audience and stimulating public debate about Europe.

13th May 2025

By Waterford City & County Council

Book of Condolence for Garda Kevin Flatley

An online Book of Condolence is open for members of the public who wish to express their condolences to the family of Garda Kevin Flatley.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy said, “This is a numbing and tragic loss. Garda Flatley was a respected member of An Garda Síochána who dedicated 26 years of his life to keeping others safe. I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues on their heartbreaking loss.”

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

All messages of sympathy will be sent to Garda Flatley’s family.

Online Book of Condolence is available at https://bit.ly/GardaKevinFlately-RIP