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Waterford City & County Council

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By Waterford City & County Council

Harvest Festival 2023 – Road Closure Arrangements

Notice is hereby given that Waterford City and County Council, in exercise of its powers
will close the following public roads to through traffic from 8th to 10th September, 2023 to facilitate the 2023 Waterford Harvest Festival.

Road to be closed:

1. From 6am Friday 8th until 10pm Sunday 10th September 2023.
• L5532 Arundel Square
• L5531 Peter Street
• L15237 Michael Street North (from its junction with Patricks St. to Lady Lane)
• L91092 Broad Street
• L91091 Barronstrand Street
• L90352 Georges Street
• L90353 Blackfriars Lane
• L90354 Arundel Lane
• L90355 Little Patrick Street
• L55301 Bakehouse Lane
• L1525 Patrick Street
• L1502 O’Connell Street (from its Junction with Thomas Street)
• L5501 Gladstone Street
• L15023 Sargents Lane (from its Junction with Jenkins Lane Car Park)

2. From 6am Saturday 9th September until 10pm Sunday 10th September 2023
• L1528 Johns Street (Applemarket)

Traffic Diversions:
A comprehensive Traffic Management Plan will be in place from the start of the road closures and all alternative routes will be signposted.

• Access to the Cork Road from Ballybricken Green shall be via Mayors Walk and Barrack Street.
• Access to The Quays from Ballybricken shall be via James Street & Vulcan Street.
• There will be no access to The Quays from O’Connell Street after Vulcan Street.
• Access and egress to Jenkins Lane Car Park shall be via Meeting House Lane only.
• Entry to Patrick Street will controlled by security and barriers at its junction with Stephens Street and Carrigeen Park and all non-permitted traffic shall be directed to Stephens Street and onto Lady Lane. Traffic Permitted to the closed section of Patrick Street will only be Taxis, Festival Production and Emergency Vehicles.

• Access to Alexander Street shall be via Stephen Street, with egress via Lady Lane. The traffic direction on the section of Lady Lane from Michael Street to Bakehouse Lane shall be reversed for the duration of the Road Closures.

Emergency Access:
Access will be maintained for the emergency services at all times to all areas subject to these road closures.

Local Residents:
As on street car parking on the above streets will be unavailable during the event car owners who reside on the affected streets will be asked to relocate to other areas of the city. Any vehicle found parked in such areas will be impounded and will be subject to a release cost.

Deliveries:
All businesses within the cordon area are being asked to avoid, if possible, deliveries to and from their premises during the festival period. No unauthorised vehicles will be allowed within the site area between the hours of 8am – 9pm.

Car Parking:
Access to all city centre car parks will be unaffected.

Public Transport:
Buses:
The following Bus Routes will be affected:
W4 – Peter Street to Browns Road.
Full details will be made available closer to the event from Bus Éireann.

Taxis:
Arising from the closure of Peter Street and Arundel Square the Peter Street Taxi Rank shall be closed for the duration of the Road Closure and a Temporary Stand shall be installed in Patrick Street.

Signage within City Square Shopping Centre and at Peter Street will direct users to the
temporary stand.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council shortlisted for six Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards

Waterford City and County Council has been shortlisted in six categories of the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards 2023.

The projects range from community to economic development, and urban revival to environment.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway said the recognition by Chambers Ireland was a great endorsement of the projects.  “I am delighted to see that Waterford City and County Council has been shortlisted in six categories of the Excellence in Local Government Awards.  This is the strongest representation Waterford City and County Council has ever had at these awards, and it is a testament not only to the innovation of the respective teams within the sectors, but also to the drive and vision of the Local Authority itself.”

Tramore Town Centre Public Realm Works has been shortlisted in the Urban Revival category. This award recognises initiatives that promote urbanism through improving and enhancing the lived experience in urban environments. The town centre works in the heart of Tramore have created a recognisable town centre and re-established confidence in Main Street Tramore, evidenced by the vibrant on street activity and number of recently repurposed previously vacant buildings.

Waterford’s Ukrainian Refugee Response has been shortlisted in the Diversity and Inclusion category, which celebrates the projects which have promoted inclusion, enhanced accessibility, and generally improve the quality of life of those from diverse or marginalised groups.  Waterford City and County Council’s Refugee Response Team works closely with partner agencies ensuring the provision of medical, financial, language and educational support along with access to social integration and employment opportunities for Ukrainians arriving in Waterford.

A Celebration of Waterford as Ireland’s Best Place to Live is shortlisted in the Communications category.  This award recognises communications and marketing campaigns that support local authorities’ strategic objectives. The #CelebrateWaterford symposium, held in Waterford’s Theatre Royal and in partnership with the Irish Times, showcased Waterford as a great city, with strong community ties, a rich arts and culture scene, a high calibre academic talent pool and workforce.

In the Climate Change category Waterford City and County Council’s Climate Action team has been shortlisted for its Business Rates Waiver initiative to promote and support sustainability.  As part of Waterford City and County Council’s objective to deliver a carbon neutral Waterford by 2040, the Local Authority is re-introducing its Commercial Rates Energy Discount Scheme to support and enable businesses and service providers to transition to carbon neutrality.  In 2022, 1,000 businesses across Waterford took advantage of the scheme to identify opportunities for savings, explore the potential of renewable energy and avail of an 8% commercial rates reduction.

Waterford Museums of Time and Silver are shortlisted in the Heritage and Built Environment category.  This category celebrates best in class by a Local Authority to promote public interest in, and knowledge, appreciation and protection of local heritage sites.  The Museum of Time and the Irish Silver Museum were opened in June 2021 and are a part of the Viking Triangle project, expanding the offering in the area and encouraging visitors to explore more of what Waterford had to offer.

Mount Congreve – One of the Great Gardens of the World is shortlisted in the Supporting Tourism category.  This award seeks to recognise best practice work by local authorities to promote and increase the tourism offerings in their local areas as well as helping people appreciate the tourism attraction within their local area.  The result of this investment project is a world-class, purpose-built visitor centre, café and gift shop along with a variety of walking routes which are peppered with creative interpretation bringing the history of the estate to life.

The 2023 Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards are sponsored by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the award ceremony takes place in Dublin on November 23rd

By Waterford City & County Council

Uisce Éireann working to lift Boil Water Notice for customers supplied by Glenary Public Water Supply

 

Uisce Éireann, in partnership with Tipperary County Council, wish to remind customers on the Glenary Public Water Supply that the Boil Water Notice issued on August 15 remains in place. This is to protect the health of approximately 10,600 customers supplied by the Glenary Public Water Supply Scheme as a result of operational issues at the water treatment plant.

The notice applies to all consumers supplied by the Glenary Public Water Supply which includes parts of Clonmel Town centre and surrounding areas including Cashel Road, Cahir Road and Ring Road; and the Kilcomma/Finger Post areas in Co Waterford. Customers can check if their property is included by visiting the www.water.ie/supply and entering the property’s Eircode or by calling the Uisce Éireann customer care helpline, open 24/7, on 1800 278 278. A map of the area is also available to view on the website.

Drinking water experts from Uisce Éireann and Tipperary County Council are working, in consultation with the HSE, to lift the notice as quickly and as safely as possible. In the meantime, all customers on this supply are advised to boil and cool their water before use until further notice.

Uisce Eireann’s Colin Cunningham acknowledged the impact of this notice on the community.

“Public health is Uisce Éireann’s number one priority and we would like to assure customers that the notice has been put in place to protect public health. We are working to lift the notice as quickly as possible and acknowledge the inconvenience caused to homes and businesses since this Boil Water Notice was issued”.

Uisce Éireann also takes this opportunity to remind customers that Boil Water Notices remain in place for customers on the Dundrum Regional and Burncourt Regional and Ballylooby Public Water Supplies.

Uisce Éireann’s drinking water standards, as per EU Drinking Water regulations, are strict and include wide safety margins. Where risks to water quality are identified through Uisce Éireann’s enhanced testing and monitoring programme, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is consulted, and Boil Water Notices are issued to protect public health. In all instances immediate action is taken to address the cause of the issue to enable the lifting of the notice as quickly as it safe to do so, in agreement with the HSE.

Vulnerable customers who have registered with Uisce Éireann receive direct communication on Boil Water Notices. Customers are reminded that the water is safe to consume once boiled.

Water must be boiled for:

  • Drinking;
  • Drinks made with water;
  • Preparation of salads and similar foods, which are not cooked prior to eating;
  • Brushing of teeth;
  • Making of ice – discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers and filtered water in fridges. Make ice from cooled boiled water.

What actions should be taken:

  • Use water prepared for drinking when preparing foods that will not be cooked (e.g. washing salads);
  • Water can be used for personal hygiene, bathing and flushing of toilets but not for brushing teeth or gargling;
  • Boil water by bringing to a vigorous, rolling boil (e.g. with an automatic kettle) and allow to cool. Cover and store in a refrigerator or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic water filters will not render water safe to drink;
  • Caution should be taken when bathing children to ensure that they do not swallow the bathing water;
  • Preparing Infant Formula: Where a Boil Water Notice is in place, you can prepare infant formula from tap water that has been boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute) and cooled beforehand. Bottled water can also be used to make up infant formula. All bottled water, with the exception of natural mineral water, is regulated to the same standard as drinking water. It is best not to use bottled water labelled as ‘Natural Mineral Water’ as it can have high levels of sodium (salt) and other minerals, although it rarely does. ‘Natural Mineral Water’ can be used if no other water is available, for as short a time as possible, as it is important to keep babies hydrated. If bottled water is used to make up infant formula it should be boiled once (rolling boil for 1 minute), and cooled in the normal way. Ready-to-use formula that does not need added water can also be used.

Great care should be taken with boiled water to avoid burns and scalds as accidents can easily happen, especially with children.

Updates are available on our Water Supply Updates section on water.ie, on Twitter @IWCare and via our customer care helpline, open 24/7 on 1800 278 278.

By Waterford City & County Council

IBAL litter survey shows most beaches not clean, however Dungarvan and Tramore impress

                                                                                   

 

Both Dungarvan Harbour and Tramore were found to be Clean to European norms. However, the study of 33 areas nationwide revealed the majority of beaches falling short of clean status, despite the unsettled summer meaning lower visitor numbers.

Dungarvan particularly impressed the judges and the overall impression created at Dungarvan was a very positive one and notably improved on 2022 IBAL Marine surveys.

The report stated that, “This time around it was very much deserving of the top litter grade.  The paving, planted areas, seating, water fountain, lifebelts, litter bins and visitor information notices were in very good order, creating a very positive impression.  Despite the presence of cigarette butt disposal units there was a definite butt presence, particularly beneath the seating – perhaps the provision of dedicated cigarette butt notices may help.

“The ‘novel’ plastic drinking bottles only facility was being well used.  Hopefully alcohol related litter doesn’t build up under the bridge as was the case in previous years.  The ‘Love this Place, Leave no Trace’ illustration on the Big Belly bins was an attractive way of delivering this message.”

Tramore also received a very positive report, with it receiving an excellent result in 2022 which was replicated in 2023.

According to the IBAL Litter survey, “The beach, promenade, parking and immediate environs were not just excellent with regard to litter but very freshly presented and maintained e.g., paving, signage, visitor information notices, seating, planter boxes, lifebelts etc.

“The area is exceptionally well served by litter bins and associated signage, and this is certainly having the desired effect – a very clean site.  The Beach Borrow Box is a lovely feature.  There was minimal litter throughout, some occasional food related items, dog fouling and cigarette butts.”

Beaches, harbours, rivers and their immediate environs were monitored by An Taisce in June and July. While there was a 50% rise in clean sites overall, the survey again found our coastal areas to be more littered than our towns, which IBAL researches as part of its Anti-Litter League programme.

“Over an unsettled summer, where our beaches attracted far fewer numbers than normal, one might have expected the majority to be virtually free of litter,” says Conor Horgan of IBAL.  “Unfortunately, this does not reflect the state of our coastal environment. There is much ‘long lie’ litter and waste coming in from the sea, and this is compounded by litter from those who continue to frequent our coastline despite the inclement weather.”

Despite the unsettled weather, there was little fall-off in the most prevalent types of litter on our coastline – cigarette butts, sweet wrappers, fast food wrapping and plastic bottles. Coffee cups were present in almost half of sites.

Disposable vapes were revealed as an emerging form of litter, encountered in 1 in 7 of all visits, making them significantly more common on our beaches than on our streets.

Ella Ryan, Environmental Awareness Officer with Waterford City and County Council welcomed the IBAL findings.  “While this is a very positive result for both Dungarvan and Tramore, we can’t rest on our laurels.  As a Local Authority, we will continue to work with the local community, volunteer groups, schools and business groups to ensure our coastal areas remain clean, welcoming and attractive places to visit.

“Waterford City is consistently ranked as Ireland’s Cleanest City and that approach to keeping our coastal areas litter-free and Clean to European norms also applies.  Initiatives such as the Cigarette Ballot Bin, Bring bank Sensor bins and the Schools Local Litter Challenge, Gum Litter Challenge and the 2Go Cup initiatives are making a positive impact on our streets and on our beach areas.”

IBAL credits the Clean Coasts programme, which supports over 2,000 volunteer groups, as a major force in ridding our coasts of litter throughout the year. Its annual ‘Big Beach Clean’ takes place nationwide each September. The continued rise in volunteers, now in excess of 40,000, reflects the growing public concern around the marine environment.

“Coastal litter is unsightly and unhygienic and deters visitors to our shores. Less evident, but more disturbing, is its impact on our sea life, which in turn threatens the very sustainability of our planet,” comments Conor Horgan.

 

By Waterford City & County Council

Mayor opens Book of Condolence for Luke and Grace McSweeney, Zoey Coffey and Nicole Murphy

 

                            c

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway has opened a book of condolence for the four young people who tragically lost their lives in a road traffic accident in County Tipperary.

“This tragedy has affected everyone, and we are devastated by the loss of Luke and Grace McSweeney, Zoey Coffey and Nicole Murphy, who had their whole lives ahead of them.

“What should have been a night to celebrate their Leaving Cert results and mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their lives, ended in unimaginable tragedy.  The sense of shock and numbness has reverberated through the whole country, and we are united in grief with the people of Clonmel and County Tipperary.

“To their families, classmates, friends, school community, and to the whole community, I, on behalf of the people of Waterford City and County extend my deepest sympathies.”

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha dílse.

The books of condolence are available for members of the public to sign at:

  • City Hall, The Mall, Waterford (X91 PK15) from 9.30am-1pm and 2pm-4pm
  • Civic Office, Davitt’s Quay, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford (X35 Y326) from 9.30am-1pm and 2pm–4pm
  • Online Book of Condolence – sign here : https://bit.ly/ClonmelTragedy-RIP

All messages of sympathy will be sent to the McSweeney, Coffey and Murphy families.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford’s Finest Chefs set to host Free Cookery Demos at Waterford’s Harvest Festival Taste Waterford Kitchen Stage

     

 

Waterford Chef, restaurants and produce is set for the spotlight on the Taste Waterford Kitchen Stage at the upcoming Waterford Harvest Festival this September 8th to 10th in Waterford City.

A host of Chefs will be taking to the Taste Waterford Kitchen Stage which will be located in the courtyard at Garter Lane Theatre for two full days of cookery demonstrations from noon to 4pm daily.

Getting the kitchen stage fired up first at noon on Saturday, September 9th is the Chef Patron of Michelin-starred House Restaurant at the Cliff House Hotel, Ardmore, Tony Parkin. With over 22 years of experience in the culinary world, Parkin’s approach is shaped by an array of global influences, working in a number of internationally renowned restaurants, including Noma, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, and Northcote. Tony will be showcasing how to create his signature lobster dish, caught from Ardmore Bay.

At 1pm Jenny Flynn, Executive Chef of Faithlegg Hotel will be preparing Chicken Supreme with crisped skin using poultry from Comeragh Mountain Farm, foraged seaweed salt, and drizzled with a Dunhill Honey and tarragon glaze, all on a bed of pumpkin risotto. Jenny is a true believer in local is best, and her demos bring lots of foodie passion. With a chance to try her dish – you’ll be inspired by Jenny’s cooking and wanting to source your own local food.

At 2pm Stephen McArdle and Morgan VanderKamer from Waterford’s hotly tipped establishment Union Wine Bar & Kitchen. Head Chef Stephen will create a dish showcasing fish from Billy Burke Fish & Poultry, with Morgan, a trained sommelier, talking about wine for what occasion, and the importance in the hospitality industry. The perfect fusion between creating a quality, local dish and how the wine can sing with it.

Taking Saturday’s demo’s to a close is Donia Sikora of Avo Café, the champions a wholesome lifestyle, recognising the profound influence of diet on our well-being, vitality, and daily vigor. Donia will be preparing her version of the classic breakfast, with a ‘Garden Gate chickpea omelette’ being the star attraction in a dish that encompasses the finest, natural ingredients.

On Sunday, September 10th at noon Head of Food at the award winning GrowHQ in Waterford City JB Dubois. JB manages the award-winning zero-waste café – delivering local, organic and seasonal dishes everyday. And when using homegrown food, the distance from their plot to plate is an impressive 112 steps. He’s not just preparing a delicious and local dish, JB will inspire you to cook with seasonal ingredients, reducing food waste, and even reusing edible food waste – like turning vegetable skins into crisps. After this demo, you’ll feel encouraged to make sustainability a key part of your cooking, and enjoy a healthier lifestyle.

At 1pm Irish-Israeli couple Nicola Crowley and Dvir Nusery from Mezzo in Tramore will take you through an easy recipe to cook bourekas – cheesy puff pastry parcels, with Knockalara and Knockanore cheeses, and pickles, perfect for lunch boxes and picnics.

The 2pm demo offers an exciting collaboration between two award-winning Taste Waterford members – Kamila Bystrzonowska from Momo Restaurant and Liam McDonnell of Legacy Irish Cider. With slow cooked pork in cider, served with bread from the Seagull Bakery and local pickles, it’ll demonstrate how you can use cider at home to enhance flavours.

Taking the Taste Waterford Kitchen Stage demos to a close at 3pm on Sunday is Husband and wife team Mary and Billy Sharpe of Irish Gourmet Butter. With many award wins under their belts, including the prestigious Blas na hÉireann Awards, they’ve dedicated their passion to elevating this simple ingredient and in this demo they showcase how quality butter can enhance food. Their son Head Chef Harrison Sharpe of Elbow Lane in Cork will demonstrate three recipes – caramelised carrot soup, gin-glazed vichy carrots, and tandoori carrots with yoghurt. Along with using a host of local suppliers, including Ardmore carrots and Blackwater Distillery Gin, it’ll be the perfect way to end this year’s Taste Waterford Kitchen – hearing about and tasting what’s great about Waterford produce.

The Waterford Harvest Festival is being supported by Waterford City & County Council and organised by GIY with the Taste Waterford Kitchen Stage sponsored by Waterford’S Local Enterprise Office.

The festival offers an array of entirely free events for everyone to enjoy. There will be two live music stages and in addition there will be vast array of entertainment and tings to see, do and eat throughout the festival weekend. Highlights include ‘Food Matters’ food sustainability talks where some of the country’s most esteemed food writers, chefs, activists, journalists and business people, it’s guaranteed to be an educational, engaging and entertaining debate each day.

For the food fans Waterford’s rich food heritage will be key, celebrating the City’s diverse restaurants, eateries and producers. The best of Waterford’s food and drink will be centre stage at the giant Harvest Festival Market which will traverse across Waterford’s wonderful squares and interconnecting streets.

In the Junior GIYer’s zone which will take over O’Connell Street families will enjoy the Wooly Farm where children can learn more about our furry and feathered friends. Artist Aga Krym will create a new living art installation with Slí Waterford based on the UN sustainable Development Goal of Zero Hunger. In addition Cool Food School and GIY will be hosting workshops on seed sowing, growing and cooking food and Monty Potts will be on hand to help out plus there will be art workshops, Fun Drums and at Waterford City Library there will be story-telling, colouring sessions, the Waterford Honey Show will be open for visitors and more.

The Waterford Harvest Festival is funded by Waterford City & County Council and is a weekend-long celebration taking place from Friday 8th to Sunday 10th of September and will see the city come to life with markets, special dining events, panel discussions and plenty more. For further details and to browse the full programme of free entertainment and events see https://harvest.giy.ie/

#WaterfordHarvest

#FoodMatters

By Waterford City & County Council

Mount William housing estate celebrates with day of family-fun festivities

Almost a year to the day since Mount William estate was officially opened by the then Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary, the residents hosted a charity family street play day.

 

 

 

 

On Saturday, August 19th, families from Mount William enjoyed a whole heap of fun and festivities including a bouncy castle, a visit from Nore Valley Mobile farm and Celtic Thunder Chapter Ireland Bike Club, an ice cream van, and games galore hosted by Waterford City and County Council’s Community team.

The celebrations were organised by the Mount William Residents Association with Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway in attendance.

The mayor said “It’s great to be part of such a strong community initiative.  My predecessor officially opened this estate a year ago and it’s evident that in that time the sense of community has flourished.  From the young to the young at heart and everyone in between, Mount William encapsulates what good neighbours are all about.”

On the day there was also a charity raffle with all proceeds going to St. Vincent de Paul.

Residents Association Committee member Sue Jackson said the family fun day was a real success.  “We are delighted that so many friends and neighbours from the estate came out to enjoy the festivities.  There has always been a great community spirit in the estate and that was evident today by the numbers of families that got involved, had some fun and helped raise money for a very worthy charity.

“We also got great support from local businesses that donated spot prizes for the raffle and sponsored the refreshments for the event.  As a relatively new estate, it gives me great hope for the future that this community will continue to form a sense of identity and strong bonds, both within the estate itself and the wider area.”

Micheal Murphy, Waterford City and County Council Estate and Tenancy Manager added, “Since the day families began moving into their homes here in Mount William, there has been such a positive energy about the place.  It’s testament to the resident’s association that has ensured that the sense of community and connectivity is maintained.”

Mount William, a housing development on the Williamstown Road comprises of 65 units, predominantly two and three bedrooms and was built by Liam Neville Developments.

 

By Waterford City & County Council

Rás na mBan Waterford Stage launched in Tramore

For the first time in its 17-year history, Rás na mBan, Ireland’s only women’s international bike stage race, has introduced a Waterford stage to its five-day schedule, which takes place from September 6th to 10th.

     

The 2023 edition of the race is the 17th under the title of Rás na mBan and the 36th annual international stage race for women in Ireland. In its current format it runs for five days and six stages totalling over 400km of racing action.

The 102.7km stage of the race will leave Tramore at 12 noon on Saturday, September 9th and travel through Kilmeaden and Kilmacthomas, on to Dungarvan, before returning along the Copper Coast to the finish line on the Prom in Tramore at approximately 2.40pm.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway welcomed Rás na mBan to Waterford saying, “We are delighted that Waterford will feature as a stage for this prestigious international bike race.  It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase the idyllic, challenging and breath-taking scenery not only to the riders, but to spectators of the world.  We are looking forward to welcoming the riders and supporters to Waterford for what is regarded as the premier international women’s stage race.”

The mayor added, “I would particularly like to thank the Rás na mBan committee for including Waterford in the route this year.  I’d also like to commend the vision of Waterford City and County Council and its elected representatives in working with the race committee and attracting top class women’s bike racing to the Déise.”

Race Director, Valerie Considine said, “It’s our great pleasure and privilege to bring Rás na mBan to Waterford for the first time. It’s a county with an unrivalled heritage in Irish cycle racing and the route we have selected is among the most beautiful and challenging in the history of the race.

“We’re very grateful to everyone in Waterford City and County Council for their help in making this stage possible and we’re sure that our riders and supporters will enjoy a great day of racing on the Copper Coast. We look forward to seeing fans from all over Waterford and beyond out to support these world class athletes on the race route and at the finish in Tramore.”

Fergus Galvin, Director of Services, Waterford City and County Council commended the race organisers for including a Waterford stage in this year’s race.

“Rás na mBan is undoubtedly a top-class international stage race.  The addition of a Waterford stage to the route will give world-class riders from across Europe, the US, Africa and Asia a new demanding route to compete on for the penultimate day.  It also provides the opportunity for them to experience one of the country’s most spectacular backdrops, the Copper Coast.”

The 2023 running of the event begins on Wednesday September 6th with six stages taking place over five days.

This year the route offers a variety of challenges from testing hilly stages including the stage four climb of ‘The Cut’ in the Slieve Bloom Mountains in County Laois followed by the demanding Tramore stage in County Waterford on the penultimate day to the stage five-time trial on Sunday where riders will ride solo against the watch on the new Kilkenny Castle course.

For details about the Rás na mBan and the 2023 route visit https://rasnamban.com

 

By Waterford City & County Council

Council’s Community Team bringing Play to the Streets

Last week, Waterford City and County Council’s Community team, through its Healthy Ireland program, arrived with its Playful Street program for residents of Markey Drive and Highfield Dungarvan.

The Playful Street programmes are being rolled out throughout Waterford county with over eighteen areas signed up already.

This was Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway’s second playful street event. “I was privileged to have been asked to come to the Playful Streets evening in Dungarvan.  I met a great bunch of children and their enthusiastic parents, all of whom responded engagingly with Waterford City and County Council’s espousal of the initiative.

 

“The main thrust of Playful Streets is to get children to play together safely outdoors – and leaving the couches, TVs, phones and video games to one side.  In doing so, we will build a stronger, more inclusive, child-friendly community. The Council is aiming to have many more such events all over the city and county and it’s a fantastic way of community groups working on a project and continuing the overall emphasis of pride of place.”

Cllr. Thomas Phelan echoed the mayor’s sentiments, saying “As a local councillor it was great to see the playful streets initiative in action in Dungarvan. I really enjoyed the spending time with the residents in Highfield and Spring Markey Drive. It was a pity the mayors team bet mine in the tug of war, but it was great craic.

“These days there’s lots of concern about the children playing in front of phone screens and computer screens so it was great playful streets gave them the opportunity to play in front of their green and street instead.  We have plenty of community groups in the Dungarvan area and there is always a helping hand or advice for new groups establishing themselves.”

Organising resident Karen Phelan was delighted with the response from the community “We didn’t expect such a response, the street came alive with activity and people came from everywhere. It was a really good idea not only for the children but the parents and families in the area to get to know each other a little better.”

Eoin Morrissey from Waterford City and County Council Community Section added, “We have been amazed at the response to this project in the Summer. To date over 1,500 children have taken part with hundreds of adults attending and hopefully adding to their social connectivity within their community. The more people know of each other and what’s going on the more opportunities they are for development.”

By Waterford City & County Council

Commercial Rates Energy Discount Scheme 2023 – Open

Rates Energy Discount of 8%

In 2022 almost 1,000 businesses across Waterford took advantage of the Rates Energy Discount Scheme. The Rates Energy Discount Scheme was introduced to encourage businesses to play their part in reducing carbon emissions, joining householders, the local authority and many more in the county.
Businesses across the world are doing their part to reduce carbon emissions, reduce fuel and save money. For the environment and for their bottom line.
In Waterford, businesses account for 24.6% of emissions, the majority of those coming from energy use.
Taking Climate Action is something we must all do in society, the Council itself is working towards a goal of a 51% carbon emissions reduction by 2030.
The Rates Energy Discount Scheme is continuing in 2023, with businesses being asked to go one step further and to complete an energy audit or an energy assessment. An audit or assessment will help your business to identify energy saving opportunities.
CHECKLIST FOR APPLICANTS:
  • Rates Customer Account Number (your account number is displayed on your annual rates invoice).
  • LAID number (your account number is displayed on your annual rates invoice).
Either:
  • Proof of Energy Audit conducted for the business by an external consultant within the last 5 years – a copy of an invoice as well as the front page will need to be uploaded
or:
  • Applicants without Energy Audit proof will be required to complete Energy Self-Assessment questionnaire designed to help you to identify energy saving opportunities in your business.
  • Your business account IBAN from which your commercial rates are paid.
Eligibility
Businesses whose annual rate bill is less than €10,000 or who operate in the hospitality industry will be eligible to receive a Rates Energy Discount of 8% once they have either uploaded evidence of the Energy Audit to this platform by Friday, September 29th, 2023, or for those who have been unable to secure an audit you can avail of the discount by carrying out an Energy Self-Assessment.

Only rated properties suitable for energy audit are eligible to apply – for example yards with no buildings would not be eligible.

If you have undertaken an Energy Audit, the application should take less than 10 minutes to complete. In the event of Energy Self-Assessment, it will take longer to complete the assessment, just follow the questions to completion.
An audit completed by an external consultant can be used to apply for funding for energy efficiency improvements whereas the Energy Self-Assessment that businesses can complete on this platform cannot be used to apply for further funding.
To avail of the discount accounts must also be fully paid by 23:55 on 29th September 2023 or are in an agreed Direct Debit payment plan. The credit will be applied after the deadline once the requirements have been met.
All businesses who either upload proof of an Energy Audit or complete an Energy Self-Assessment will receive advice from Waterford City and County Council on what they can do next to save energy.
While multiple drafts are allowed, there should only be one complete application submitted per each Rates LAID.
Questions? – please email Climate Action Coordinator at gkennedy@waterfordcouncil.ie
Email Rates related queries to: rates@waterfordcouncil.ie

APPLY: The link to form: https://submit.link/1GC

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By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford Firefighters to attempt 5 peaks challenge

In an awe-inspiring effort, firefighters from Waterford City Station are gearing up to embark on an extraordinary journey – a challenging expedition to conquer the 5 highest peaks in the UK and Ireland, within a tight 48-hour window.

Set to kick off on the 6th of September, the mission aims to raise funds for a cause close to their hearts: the Irish Cancer Society.

The journey will see the Waterford men commence their adventure at the foot of Mount Snowdon in Wales, before moving on to Scafell Pike in England, then conquering the grandeur of Ben Nevis in Scotland.

But their journey doesn’t end there – after scaling the three highest peaks on island of Great Britain, they will make their way back to Ireland to ascend Slieve Donard in County Down, concluding their quest at Carrauntoohil in County Kerry. It’s a feat that demands not only physical prowess but also strategic planning and much determination.

Every penny raised through this challenge will go directly towards supporting the Irish Cancer Society’s vital work, making a real difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.

Participant Firefighter, Willy Walsh, commented : “We have already made progress toward our fundraising goal. Through various collections like city-wide bucket collections over the past few months, we’ve managed to raise approximately €8,000. However, our target is set at €10,000, and we are looking to the Waterford community for further support.

We have set up a JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/wcfs and any donation, no matter the size, will make an impact and help us reach our goal.”

 

By Waterford City & County Council

Glas Awards Launched!

 

Local Enterprise Office Waterford launches the inaugural Glas Awards, promoting sustainability in business in Waterford.

The awards, in association with Waterford City and County Council aim to recognise and celebrate micro businesses in County Waterford who have made significant advances in bringing green principles into their business model.

Launched by Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway, Acting Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, Brid Kirby, and Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, Gráinne Kennedy, these awards will showcase what Waterford business is doing to adopt sustainability policies, in a practical sense.

The awards are open to small and medium sizes businesses based in Waterford County. The Green Micro Enterprise of the Year is open to all with employees of 10 or less, while the Green SME of the Year is open to those between 11 and 20 employees.

The mayor sees this as another step towards Waterford’s green action targets.  “Waterford has been actively working towards carbon neutrality and preparing for the impacts of climate change. Through policy measures and the implementation of both adaptation and mitigation projects, we can effect real change.

“Every aspect of the community has a role to play, and these awards will highlight and reward the micro businesses who have started to play their part.”

Each winner will receive a cash prize of €2,500 and a themed trophy.

Brid is extremely proud of these new Awards, “We want to recognise the extraordinary contribution and commitment that some Waterford companies now make towards growing a greener future in Waterford’s business environment.

“We have an opportunity to promote the conscientious practices of these Waterford businesses and hopefully encourage more to adopt a similar attitude. A green agenda does not have to increase costs in business. It often increases business, while saving money in the long run. It is an investment in their business and our future.

While Grainne hopes they will inspire other businesses, “We hope that this event connects companies and teams from a diverse variety of business sectors to exchange ideas and celebrate achievements in sustainability. We are proud to again be part of an event that highlights leadership and sustainability in green practices in Waterford.”

The entry portal  www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford/Training-Events/Competitions/Waterford-Glas-Awards-2023.html is now open on Waterford’s Local Enterprise Office website and remains so until 20th September 2023. The Glas Awards Final which will be held in Grow HQ, Waterford City on 17th October 2023.

For further information follow this link www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford, contact LEO Waterford at 051 849905 or email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie

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