Skip to content
Waterford City & County Council

Latest News & Announcements

By Waterford City & County Council

Many Hands Make Light Work!

Waterford Walls returns this August with a carefully curated programme featuring ten days of street art, music, accessible workshops and guided tours. Running from August 11 to 20, the festival has grown to an unprecedented scale this year. This has been made possible by a huge variety of supporters, with The Walls Project team having spent the past year pulling together a list of over forty sponsors, funders, supporters and stakeholders.

After a long search for a headline sponsor that fits the ethos of the festival, Waterford Walls is delighted to have partnered with Writers’ Tears Irish Whiskey. The Carlow-based distillers have come on board to support digital engagement, boost international reach and transform the festival hub located at The Forum in the Glen.

As ever, Waterford City and County Council remains a massive supporter of Waterford Walls, with its designation as a flagship festival. In addition to funding, Waterford City and County Council supports the festival in a whole range of ways and across many departments, with logistical and moral support making this a real partnership. The Council’s grant allocation allows Waterford Walls to add economic, cultural, artistic and community value, along with the growth of tourism in Waterford.

The Arts Council remains a dedicated patron as Waterford Walls has once again received funding as part of its Festival Investment Scheme. A new addition to this year’s programme is the festival’s Artist Residency supported by the European Festivals Association (EFA) and co-funded by the European Union. A.Palval, an artist from Ukraine was awarded the European Festivals Fund for Emerging Artists and will represent Waterford Walls in Belfast and Aielli, Italy as part of the scheme.

A key element of the festival is the material used to craft the art pieces. Paint suppliers include Colourtrend Paints and Montana Cans allocated by Hills Art. Large-scale murals will be brushed across Waterford city and county by professional artists from Ireland and abroad. At the heart of the festival, community remains a valued aspect. A community wall will be painted with the support and engagement of locals in the area, with this wall supported by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. A panel talk funded by Creative Waterford will be another new addition this year.

The participation of International artists is supported by the Australian, French, Portuguese, Belgian and Spanish embassies, along with the Italian Cultural Institute and Instituto Cervantes. Waterford Walls appreciates the pride each embassy and institute provides for these artists travelling to Ireland.

Thanks are given to firm supporters at the Fitzwilton Hotel who is also the proud owner of a 2022 festival wall. The Forum will provide an oasis for the festival hub and connecting support from Number 21. Positive support comes from Rapid Cabs and digital mental health platform, SilverCloud by Amwell.

Over thirty blank walls have been submitted to Waterford Walls for painting this autumn. As the festival begins in less than 100 days, the team wishes to thank wall owners for their patience and support as artists and sketches are finalised for each wall.

Close and far, partners include fellow festivals such as Hit the North and Borgo Universo, along with international partners of Visual Voices and Hypermur. Local spaces at Garter Lane and the Theatre Royal will play a supportive role. The Walls Project was recently transformed with a captivating rebrand by creative agency, Unthink.

Information about Waterford Walls Festival, artist announcements and much more can be found at their Linktree here: https://linktr.ee/TheWallsProject

By Waterford City & County Council

Notice of Rent Review 2023

A Rent Review is currently being carried out for all Social Housing Tenants.

In order to ensure that we have the household correct and up to date details, tenants are requested complete the Rent Review Form regarding their household makeup and income details.  This document has been posted to all tenants but is also available below.

It is the tenant’s responsibility under their Tenancy Agreement to ensure that they submit the correct details to the Council for rent calculation purposes. Failure to return the form fully completed with the relevant proofs of income may result in a penalty rent being applied to the account.

Before returning the completed form, please ensure to include details of ALL occupants and the following relevant documents:

  • If in full/part time employment supply 3 recent consecutive payslips for all household members who are in employment.
  • If Self-employed submit recent Notice of Tax Assessment from Revenue.
  • Aged 18 and over in fulltime education submit proof from school or college.
  • Occupant Moved In provide the date of occupancy and previous address.
  • Occupant moved out provide the date they left and proof of new address.

Please return the form fully completed with relevant proofs of income by Monday 12th June 2023 to the Customer Service Desk, Waterford City & County Council, Bailey’s New St. Waterford X91 XH42, or Civic Offices, Davitt’s Quay Dungarvan, Co. Waterford X35 Y326.

Alternatively completed forms and supporting documentation can be scanned to the email address below.

Queries: rentreview@waterfordcouncil.ie | 051 849923

By Waterford City & County Council

Visit by Norwegian Ambassador Mari Skåre

Mayor of Waterford Metropolitan District Council welcomed Ambassador Mari Skåre of the Royal Norwegian Embassy to City Hall on Monday to celebrate and promote our shared Viking heritage.

The Ambassador visited Reginald’s Tower, Woodstown Viking site and Waterford County Museum and met Deputy Matt Shanahan, Deputy David Cullinane and members of Woodstown Viking Site Steering Committee.

By Waterford City & County Council

Notice publishing commencement of Audit

Notice is hereby given that the audit of the accounts of the above-named local Government organisation for the Financial Year ending 31st day of December, 2022 will be commenced by James Moran Local Government Auditor, on the 9th day of June, 2023.

In accordance with article 17 of the Local Government (Financial and Audit Procedures) Regulations 2014, objections to any matter or matters contained in the said several accounts will be considered by the Local Government Auditor during the audit.

Written notice of any proposed objection, setting out the relevant particulars and grounds on which it is to be made, should be sent to the above Local Government Auditor at City Hall, The Mall, Waterford within ten days of the commencement of the audit. The annual financial statement will be available during office hours for the inspection of all persons for a period of seven days before the commencement of the audit.

Dated this 23rd day of May 2023.

Michael Walsh, Chief Executive, Waterford City & County Council.

By Waterford City & County Council

Applications now open for Casual Trading Licence at Durrow Station, Waterford Greenway – Summer Season 2023

Waterford City & County Council has initiated an application process for one casual trading licence at Durrow Station, Waterford Greenway for the summer season of 2022 from 1st June to 31st August 2023.

Intending applicants are asked to refer to the application guidelines, terms and conditions in advance of completing an application at Durrow station casual trading.

Applicants will also need to ensure they are familiar with the 2021 Waterford City & County Council Casual Trading Bye Laws.

Applications must be submitted via Waterford City & County Council’s online application system at https://submit.link/1O6

Closing date for applications is 17:00 hrs Monday 29th May 2023. Applications received after this time and date will NOT be considered as part of this application process.

The successful applicant must be ready to commence trading at the specified location on 2nd June 2023.

For enquiries and further information email: greenway@waterfordcouncil.ie

By Waterford City & County Council

SS Port Láirge propeller unveiled as monument

Today saw the official unveiling of a large refurbished propeller from the old port dredger SS Port Láirge by Dr. Eugene Broderick, Chair of Waterford Civic Trust, Metropolitan Mayor of Waterford, Cllr. Jason Murphy and Mr. David Sinnott, CEO of the Port of Waterford company.

Waterford Civic Trust facilitated the agreement between the Port of Waterford Company and Waterford City and County Council to install the restored propeller on the roundabout at Merchant’s Quay, adjacent to the former Harbour Master’s offices.

Cllr. Murphy said, “In 1907, the SS Port Láirge dredger was acquired by Waterford Harbour Commissioners to replace the Urbs Intacta which had seen service on the river for many years.  Taking its name from the Irish name for the city, the SS Port Láirge was built at the Dublin Dockyard Company and in her day was the most modern vessel afloat, capable of carrying 500 tonnes of silt.

Affectionately known to the people of Waterford as the ‘Mudboat’ the SS Port Láirge  worked up and down the quays of Waterford for just over seventy-five years until 1983, keeping the River Suir open and the port berths free of mud and silt. The SS Port Láirge was the last working steamship of her type in these islands.”

Members of Waterford Civic Trust in attendance included Anne Cusack, Des Griffin, and Mary O’Halloran along with Eamonn O’Brien, the last surviving crew member of the SS Port Láirge and Cpt. Darren Doyle, Harbour Master Port of Waterford.

ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Local Climate Action Plan – Consultation

Waterford City and County Council is preparing a Local Authority Climate Action Plan.

We’re looking for your input into our Local Authority Climate Action Plan. Help us shape appropriate actions to facilitate and enable effective climate action at a local and community level. Our Plan is currently in draft, and the final version will be adopted by our Elected Members before 23rd February 2024.

The Council has been at the forefront of climate action in Waterford for many years. It plays a significant role in the delivery of mitigation and adaption measures at the local level.

Purpose of the Plan:

  • To deliver on national obligations to achieve the National Climate Objective of becoming a Climate Resilient, Biodiversity Rich, Environmentally Sustainable and Carbon Neutral Economy by no later than the end of 2050.
  • To deliver and promote evidence-based and integrated climate action by way of adaptation and mitigation measures, centred around a strong understanding of the role and remit of the local authority on climate action.

How to make a submission:

  • Submissions will be accepted online or via post.
  • All submissions must be received before 5pm on 16/06/23. The contents of your submission may be published.
  • At all times Waterford City and County Council will comply with GDPR guidelines.

To read the draft plan and to make a submission online, please go:

Consultations | Waterford City & County Council (waterfordcouncil.ie)

To make a submission in writing please post to:

Climate Action Coordinator, Waterford City and County Council, City Hall, The Mall, Co. Waterford, X91 PK15

By Waterford City & County Council

Official Openings of Rural Development Projects

On May 16th,  Mayor of Waterford City and County, Councillor John O’Leary along with the Cathaoirleach of the Comeragh Municipal District, Councillor Liam Brazil officially opened a trio of new facilities in the Comeragh area.

First off was the new Lemybrien Playground where Councillor Brazil spoke about the great facility now in place which was very much designed with inclusivity and special needs in mind and which was proving a fantastic attraction for families from miles around. He also spoke of the contribution of the local community under the leadership of Kevin Lonergan.

Next it was on to Mahon Falls where Councillor O’Leary and Councillor Brazil jointly opened the newly expanded and improved car-park. Here, the emphasis was very much on the growing recreational value of the Comeragh Mountains to both local residents and visitors alike. A landscape which inspires everybody who visits there but also a landscape which needs to be valued and protected. Again, the contribution and involvement of the local community was acknowledged, particularly that of the Comeraghs Development Group, and the cooperation of local landowners, particularly Pat Keating and the commonage owners of the lands leading to the Falls.

The final destination was Kilmeaden where the Mayor officially opened the new Greenway link connecting Kilmeaden village to the Waterford Greenway at Kilmeaden Station. Councillor O’Leary paid particular compliments to the work of Waterford and Suir Valley Railway, to the Council staff involved and particularly to the contribution of landowners John and Joan Stephenson, who had allocated a significant amount of their personal property in order to accommodate the link.

In Kilmeaden also, the Mayor, in conjunction with the local Kilmeaden-Ballyduff group, launched a new initiative called the Kilmeaden-Ballyduff Community Garden, the work of which will bring substantial joy to the residents of the area over the next number of years. At the launch, the group was represented by Peter Jacob, Linda Spillane and Declan Finn.

Across all three facilities, there were distinct similarities which both Councillor O’Leary and Brazil alluded to. All three were of a recreational nature and encouraging of outdoor activity. They were funded by various but complementary government programmes – the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme and the Active Travel programme. There was community involvement in all schemes and, vitally, there was huge cooperation from local land owners. Finally, there was real commitment for those entrusted with delivering the projects, particularly the Council staff involved but also the contractors employed by the Council who did excellent work on all three projects.

The Mayor’s final wish was that everyone who used these facilities, locals and visitors alike, would get joy, health and a feeling of well-being from their presence and that the Comeraghs area would continue to be a source of joy and inspiration to all who visit her and enjoy her beauty.

-ends-

Free to use images – David Clynch

By Waterford City & County Council

Molly Keane Creative Writing Award 2023

Since 1998, the Arts Office has been running this national annual Creative Writing Award to celebrate the rich literary life of the late Molly Keane.

Molly lived in Ardmore, Co. Waterford until she died in 1996. She started writing at a young age to ‘supplement her dress allowance’.  Her first ten novels and four plays were published under the pseudonym M.J. Farrell. She married into the Keane family of West Waterford but sadly her husband died at the age of 36.

Molly ceased writing until 1981 when ‘Good Behaviour’ was published under her real name. It became a publishing sensation and was well received as a masterpiece of black comedy for which she was short-listed for the prestigious Booker Prize in 1981.

The Arts Office, Waterford City & County Council by kind permission of the Keane family is now inviting entries for a previously unpublished short story for this years’ award.
The closing date for receipt of entries is Friday 2nd June 2023 at 12 noon.

There is a cash prize of €250 plus a course at the Molly Keane Writers Retreat, Ardmore to the value of €300 for the winner and there is no entry fee. Full guidelines and the online submission details are now live on the Waterford Submit platform see: https://submit.link/1H2

or the QR code below:

By Waterford City & County Council

Athbhreithniú Cíosa 2023

Tá Athbhreithniú Cíosa á dhéanamh do gach Tionónta Tithíochta Sóisialta. Chun a chinntiú go bhfuil sonraí cearta agus suas chun dáta againn le haghaidh gach teaghlach, iarrtar ar Thionóntaí an Fhoirm Athbhreithnithe Cíosa a chomhlánú maidir lena gcomhdhéanamh teaghlaigh agus sonraí ioncaim. Eiseofar foirmeacha Athbhreithnithe Cíosa go díreach chuig na Tionóntaí go léir go luath.

Is ar na Tionóntaí atá an fhreagracht, faoin gComhaontú Tionóntachta, a chinntiú go gcuireann siad na sonraí cearta faoi bhráid na Comhairle ar mhaithe le ríomh cíosa. Mura gcuirtear ar ais an fhoirm chomhlánaithe go hiomlán leis na cruthúnais ábhartha ar ioncam d’fhéadfadh go gcuirfí Pionós Cíosa ar an gcuntas cíosa.

Sula seolfaidh tú an fhoirm chomhlánaithe ar ais cinntigh, le do thoil, sonraí na n-áitritheoirí GO LÉIR agus na doiciméid ábhartha seo a leanas:
– Más fostaíocht lánaimseartha/páirtaimseartha atá i gceist tabhair na 3 dhuillín pá as a
chéile is déanaí do gach ball den teaghlach atá i bhfostaíocht.
– Más Féinfhostaíocht atá i gceist cuir isteach an Fógra Measúnaithe Cánach is déanaí ó na
Coimisinéirí Ioncaim.
– Le haghaidh daoine atá 18 mbliana d’aois agus os a chionn atá fós in oideachas lánaimseartha cuir isteach cruthúnas ón scoil nó ón gcoláiste.
– Áititheoir Bogtha Isteach – tabhair an dáta áitíochta agus an seoladh roimhe seo.
– Áititheoir Bogtha Amach – tabhair an dáta fágála agus cruthúnas ar sheoladh nua.

Seol ar ais, le do thoil, an fhoirm comhlánaithe go hiomlán mar aon leis na cruthúnais ioncaim ábhartha faoin Luan 12 Meitheamh 2023 chuig an Deasc Seirbhíse do Chustaiméirí, Comhairle Cathrach & Contae Phort Láirge, Sráid Nua Bailey, Port Láirge X91 XH42, nó Oifigí Cathartha, Cé Davitts, Dún Garbhán, Co. Phort Láirge X35 Y326. Nó is féidir foirmeacha comhlánaithe agus doiciméid tacaíochta a scanadh agus a sheoladh chuig an seoladh ríomhphoist thíos.

Ceisteanna: rentreview@waterfordcouncil.ie | 051 849923

By Waterford City & County Council

Reminder – Temporary Road Closure – L1032, Church Road, Modeligo

Notice is hereby given that Waterford City and County Council, in exercise of its powers pursuant to Section 75 Roads Act 1993, propose to close the following road to through traffic from 26th May to 13th June, 2023 to facilitate the Watermains Rehabilitation.

Road to be closed:
• L1032 Modeligo Church Road.

Diversion Route:
• Via L1031-2 Glen Road Lower, the N72 and the R671 Clashmore-Clonmel Road.

By Waterford City & County Council

A Celebration of the land at Waterford Gallery of Art

Accompanied by song and a dance, Thursday May 18th saw the official opening of the ‘A Survey of the Landscape’ exhibition at the Waterford Gallery of Art by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary.

In his speech, the Mayor gave an impassioned speech for arts in the county and honoured those that have recently donated artworks to the Waterford Art Collection. Mayor O’Leary noted, “Artworks such as these show how important Waterford is as a centre for the arts and creativity both historically, though perhaps more importantly, in the present moment.

“There is no surprise that an exhibition of landscapes featuring Waterford and Ireland should generate such interest. This is a county, an indeed a country, that in many ways is identified and beloved due to its magnificent landscape and scenery.”

Present on the evening was Dr Abdul Bulbulia who, as Council Member of the Friends of the National Collections of Ireland, recently assisted in the donation of the painting ‘The Coulin’ by Robert Burke (1949).  Edwina Foyle and Martina O’Byrne of Artform Dunmore East were thanked for the donation of artwork ‘Parchment Tree 5’ (2018) by Michael Wann. There was also a special thanks for Joan and Roger Johnson who presented to the gallery a fascinating map of Waterford City from 1948, also created by artist Robert Burke.

Performing on the night were ‘broken-folk’ duo Lunatraktors who have recently relocated to Stradbally.  Dressed in larger-than-life jester like costumes made from reclaimed hazard tape they performed a series of land-themed protest songs and dances whilst processioning around the building.

Music was also provided courtesy of Harry O’Neill of Waterford’s Luca record and skate shop, who was resident DJ for the evening.

Also present on the night were Cllr. Joe Conway and Cllr. Eammon Quinlan, Dr Peter Jordan, Arts Officer Conor Nolan and artists Darragh Lyons, Clare Scott, Rhys Wallace and Vic Dunphy. Artists Paula Barrett and Carmel Cleary also received special recognition for their newly commissioned artworks which feature in the display.

‘A Survey of the Landscape’, curated by Luke Currall, Visual Arts Co-Ordinator Waterford City and County Council,  features over sixty artworks from the Waterford Collection of Art.

The exhibition, which is free for all, runs until November the 4th (Wed-Sat 10:00-17:00) and will include a series of workshops, talks and events.

-ends-

Free to use images to download: David Murphy

By Waterford City & County Council

Reminder : Bealtine Festival Flagship Choir

Another first for Waterford Libraries, as Waterford Libraries Bealtaine Choir has been chosen as the Bealtaine Flagship Choir for a packed programme of Dawn / Dusk Chorus events in 2023.

Established in 1995, Bealtaine is one of Ireland’s largest co-operative festival and the world’s first national celebration of creativity in older age. Bealtaine takes place each May for the entire month.  The ancient festival of Bealtaine or Beltane (held on May 1), marked the midway point between the spring equinox and the summer solstice, and heralded the start of summer.

The Festival brings together people from all over Ireland to foster and inspire creativity among older people and to promote the skills, experiences and exposure that can lead to a rich creative life for all older people.

Event Description:

The Bealtaine Choir will also perform a Dusk Chorus in the sensory garden of Carrickphierish Library. The garden opened in September 2022 and is an accessible space that is sensory rich, welcoming and engaging for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy with their families and friends. Thursday 25th May 6pm

All are welcome to join in these free events. Livestream also available on the Bealtaine Facebook page.  In partnership with Sing Ireland and Waterford City And County Council.

The event link is here:

Latest News
We made this!