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By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford Rural Tourism Network Learning Journey to the Copper Coast

A day of discovery, shared learning and colourful stories all unfolded in the magnificent landscapes of the Copper Coast on Wednesday, October 2nd.

Funded and supported by Waterford City and County Council and Fáilte Ireland, the Learning Journey to the Copper Coast is part of the Waterford Rural Tourism Network development programme being delivered by Runda Hospitality and Tourism Solutions.

Tourism businesses and agencies from across Waterford were invited to embark on a Learning Journey through the Copper Coast area of Waterford. This was the second in a series of five Learning Journeys taking place across all five cluster areas in 2024 and 2025 – Blackwater Valley, Comeragh Uplands, Copper Coast, Gaeltacht na nDéise, and Waterford Estuary.

The Learning Journey gave local businesses the opportunity to learn about tourism experiences and products located in the Copper Coast; connect, collaborate, and get to know each other; gain personal learnings to help their business, cluster and the wider Waterford tourism destination. With 40 people in the delegation there were valuable connections and learnings made throughout day.

Participants were welcomed by Julie O’Brien from Runda Hospitality & Tourism Solutions, and guided along their journey through the Copper Coast by Deirdre Woodbyrne of Rurori Tour Guiding, based in the Copper Coast.

In Durrow the group met with Garvan Cummins, better known as The Greenway Man, who explained about the variety of bikes for hire so cyclists of all abilities can enjoy the freedom of cycling along the Waterford Greenway.  At Trá na mBó, Robbie Galvin, Manager of the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, gave a fascinating insight into the origin of the rocks, some of which predate the dinosaurs.

Through the village of Bunmahon and onto the Copper Coast Visitor Centre, six Copper Coast businesses; The Greenway & Copper Coast Hostel; Waterford Origins Genealogy; The Hot Pod; Wild with Walshe, Gourmet House Cafe and Surf SUP Tramore; showcased their offerings while the group enjoyed homemade scones and a warm cuppa from the Copper Coast Café.

At the beautiful surrounds of Annestown Beach the group met Marie Power, The Sea Gardener, who provided fascinating insights into seaweed as well as her business which primarily focuses on sustainable seaweed foraging tours. Next stop, the Art Hand Gallery where Miranda and Séan Corcoran showcased their recently opened gallery, full of colourful treasures and explained about life as an Environmental Artist and the recent success of the Talamh Land Art Festival that took place on the Copper Coast in September.

The Engine House in Bunmahon, under new ownership of Johnny and Mags Hurley since the beginning of 2024, provided a delicious lunch for the group and son Jack told the group about the family’s ambition for the business.

The last stop of the day was Ballyscanlon Wellness, where manager Eoin Phelan guided the attendees through the lakeside property and spoke about how collaboration was integral to the development of the business which launched earlier this year. The day finished with a deep breath in, and out while the group enjoyed a mindful moment by the lake, guided by Emilyrose of Kawa Wellness.

The Learning Journey to the Copper Coast is part of the Waterford Rural Tourism Network development programme which is funded and supported by Waterford City and County Council and Fáilte Ireland.

Waterford City and County Council and Fáilte Ireland would like to thank all the business who participated and thank especially the businesses who hosted the different aspects of the Learning Journey.

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

By Waterford City & County Council

Iarratais ar Scéim Deontais d’Fhéilte agus Imeachtaí 2025 ar oscailt anois

Iarratais ar Scéim Deontais de chuid Chomhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge d’Fhéilte agus Imeachtaí 2025

Iarratais ar Scéim Deontais de chuid Chomhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge d’Fhéilte agus Imeachtaí 2025 ar oscailt anois.

Ní mór iarratais a chur isteach ar líne ag www.waterfordfestivals.ie áit ar féidir le hiarratasóirí acmhainní a fháil chun cabhrú leo lena n-imeacht a chur i gcrích.

Is é 4.00pm ar an Luan, 4 Samhain, 2024 an spriocdháta le haghaidh iarratas.

By Waterford City & County Council

Age Well Expo comes to Dungarvan

On Tuesday, October 1st, Waterford’s second Age Well Expo of 2024 took place in the Park Hotel, Dungarvan and drew a large crowd, who heard from guest speakers, community groups and support agencies.

The Age Friendly Waterford event, in association with Healthy Waterford, UPMC and Waterford City and County Council showcases the services, supports and activities available to older people to lead fulfilling, healthy and active lives.

The jam-packed expo featured 40 exhibition stands, talks from keynote speakers and interviews with local organisations and community groups providing insightful and topical information to everyone who strives to age well.  The event was MCed by WLRfm’s Kieran Foley.

One of the highlights of the day, was the presence of Daniel Mulhall, a former Irish diplomat who has served as Ambassador to Malaysia, Germany, the United Kingdom, and most recently the United States.

Mr. Mulhall recounted his fascinating and distinguished long-spanning diplomatic career and how he, since his retirement, has embarked on new and rewarding projects. 

Since retirement in 2022, Mr. Mulhall has been Global Distinguished Professor of Irish Studies at Glucksman Ireland House, New York University, Parnell Fellow at Magdalene College, Cambridge and a Resident Fellow at the Institute of Politics, Harvard University. He is Honorary President of the Yeats Society (Sligo), a consultant with the global law firm, DLA Piper and a director of Carlichauns Entertainment, an animated TV series based on Irish folklore.  

Sean McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council and Chair of Age Friendly Alliance, said, “The Age Well Expo is a friendly, accessible and practical event that provides valuable information and insights to older people to enhance quality of life.

“Being able to engage directly with a wide network of key support agencies and service providers really can have a positive impact when it comes to making informed choices about ageing well.  Judging by the energy and positivity in the room today, Waterford City and County Council will continue to support initiatives such as this, as we strive to make Waterford the best place to live, thrive and age well.”

Speaking following the event, UPMC Whitfield General Manager, Gwen Daniels was delighted with the event and the numbers that came along on the day saying, “This is the second Age Well Expo that UPMC has supported.  We are proud to be associated with an event that showcases the very best of provisions and services available to older people in Waterford and the region.

“It’s evident that this type of collaborative, multi-agency approach can undoubtedly enable older people in our communities to age better.”

Established in January 2014, Age Friendly Ireland coordinates the national Age Friendly Cities and Counties Programme with the first Age Friendly Strategy for Waterford City and County being launched in 2017.  The Programme brings together supports and provides technical guidance to the 31 local-authority-led, multi-agency Age Friendly City and County Programmes in every local authority area.

By Waterford City & County Council

Postponed until October 26th: Amnesty for Bulky Goods, Lismore

Bulky Amnesty Day Lismore 24

In October, Waterford City and County Council will introduce three days of amnesty for bulky household items.

The bulky goods amnesty applies to items such as couches, mattresses, beds and other large items belonging to domestic householders and can be deposited for free in Lismore, Kilmacthomas and Tramore.

Welcoming the initiative, Ella Ryan, Environmental Education Officer with Waterford City and County Council said, “The objective of this amnesty is to give people the opportunity to get rid of large household furniture for free and to support anti-dumping intervention projects and the recycling of bulky goods.

“Waterford City and County Council has been particularly successful in prosecuting those responsible for illegally dumping household waste and bulky goods.  The reason we are proactive in pursing these perpetrators is because bulky goods that are illegally dumped have an adverse effect on the environment…they are unsightly, difficult and costly to remove, and generally serve to encourage further dumping in that area.”

Ms Ryan added, “While large goods such as furniture, couches, wardrobes, bedframes and mattresses will be accepted, items such as trampolines and toys, waste electrical items and construction and demolition waste will not be accepted.”

The Bulky Goods Amnesty days take place at:

  • The Water Depot in Owbeg, Lismore from 10am to 1pm on Saturday, October 5th
  • The Roads Depot in Scrahan, Kilmacthomas from 10am to 1pm on Saturday October 12th
  • Civic Amenity Site in Tramore from 10am to 1pm on Saturday October 19th

By Waterford City & County Council

Celebration of Waterford Community Climate Action Projects

Community group recipients of funding from the Community Climate Action Programme, at Mount Congreve, along with Cllr. Seánie Power, Cathaoirleach of Comeragh District Council and members of the Climate Action Team from Waterford City and County Council.

A celebratory launch event was held for all grant recipients of the Community Climate Action Programme on Saturday, September 28th in Mount Congreve, Waterford.

Earlier this year, Waterford City and County Council, in conjunction with the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications launched the Community Climate Action Programme and seventeen community groups received €564,000 for local climate action projects. Funding ranged from between €4,000 to €92,000 respectively to provide local communities with the support and resources to implement a myriad of climate action initiatives.

The groups were welcomed by Cllr. Seánie Power, Cathaoirleach of Comeragh District Council, who commended the participants on their volunteering spirit and commitment to improvements in their own localities.

The event was a mixture of speakers and group discussions to celebrate what these projects hope to achieve in the coming months to make their communities less carbon intensive and more sustainable, but also touched on topics which would assist in running projects and getting buy-in from wider community groups.

Welcoming the groups to the event, Community Climate Action Officer, Waterford City and County Council, Susan Lee, said, “Waterford groups have been very quick off the mark and are the first in the country to start their projects.

“There are amazing initiatives started and others kicking off in the coming months which are going to make a big difference in each community. We will see everything from solar PV, bike parking, water refilling stations, community gardens, allotments, rainwater planters, community fridges and many more projects.”

Gráinne Kennedy, Climate Action Officer with Waterford City and County Council added, “It’s great to see so many communities represented in this programme, and today is an opportunity for people to share their ideas and their progress, as well as get new ideas for the next steps they can take to tackle climate change at a community level.”

Paul Deegan from Waterford Volunteer Centre highlighted the willingness of people to help local groups, saying that volunteering rates dropped off during Covid and many people did not return, however he advised the groups “that though there are challenges there are still opportunities and untapped potential for community groups to access.”  Paul also stressed that the Waterford Volunteer Centre offers a variety of free supports to community groups.

Nicola Spendlove, Creative Communities Engagement Officer Waterford City and County Council, workshopped with the groups the emotional and positive benefits that come with climate action projects and how to communicate that with the wider community.

There were many biodiversity projects funded under the programme, and the groups were very interested in the input from Waterford City and County Council Biodiversity Officer, Marina Mulligan.

Groups aiming to improve their local environment through biodiversity projects such as hedge-planting, tree-planting and leaving areas go wild for pollinators were encouraged to focus on native species and to take account of what already exists in their area. Marina suggested that people “remember what their area was like when they were growing up” as a way of imagining what their locality could be like again.

By Waterford City & County Council

LEO announces Glas Award winners!

Local Enterprise Office, Waterford celebrates this year’s Glas Award winners, DHB Architects and Clem Jacob Hire

The awards, in association with Waterford City and County Council recognise and celebrate the micro businesses in County Waterford who have made significant advances in bringing green principles into their business models. None more so than DHB Architects and Clem Jacob Hire.

The Green Micro Enterprise of the Year, open to all with employees of 10 or less was won by DHB Architects, who impressed the judges with, “The conscientious way in which the business not only prioritises sustainable practices in its own company, but also in the work it does for its clients.”

The Green SME of the Year, open to those between 11 and 50 employees was won by Clem Jacob Hire. The judges were extremely impressed with the quality of entries, saying, “The standard of entries this year is only matched by the innovation they all brought to their sustainable practices. These companies are an inspirations to businesses in Waterford and beyond.”

DHB Architects has refurbished and continuing to invest in its existing ‘protected structured building’ for use as its offices in Waterford City centre thus supporting sustainable town centre first policies. The heating system in the building does not use fossil fuels, lights are all LED and the business uses two fully electric cars for office use to bring staff to sites that are not accessible by public transport. The company recently won national awards for work in sustainable regeneration of buildings and town centres.

Clem Jacob Hire’s entire fleet of machines are now running on HVO fuel (Hydro treated vegetable oil ) instead of diesel. Where possible a big part of its hire fleet is now hybrid, thus runs on battery & HVO. The company has a bank of solar panels planned for its workshop which will produce power for charging the hybrid machines. All company cars are now electric & will be charged by power produced with solar panels. It even collects rain water for power washing its machines.

Waterford City and County Mayor Cllr. Jason Murphy spoke at the event and presented the trophies, saying, “These businesses are all leaders in their sector. Even getting shortlisted for these awards is a fantastic recognition for them and a reflection on how farsighted they are.

“I’m sure it’s this awareness that drives them to invest in sustainable policies within their business. Waterford City and County Council understands this and that is why it has focused so much on environmental policies over the past number of years and will continue to do so in the future.”

Clem Jacob was thrilled to win, “Our green and sustainable practices are more than just window dressing. They are integral to every part of our business. It’s more than just the ‘right thing to do’, the policies we’ve implemented and changes we’ve made to the running of the business really save money, in the short term as well as the long term. Getting an award for these practices is a wonderful endorsement of everything we do.”

Each winner received a cash prize of €2,500 and a Glas trophy, designed and created by Brendan O’Donnell. The awards have been solely made from reclaimed and recycled materials. Solid oak is from cabinet drawers, while the plastic is a mix of milk bottles, lids from drinks containers from a cafe and hygiene product drums from a dairy farm.

Head of Enterprise at the Local Enterprise Office Waterford, Gareth Evans was delighted with the quality of entries for the awards, “Looking at the shortlist for this year’s awards we have such an impressive and diverse collection of businesses in Waterford, from the arts and design to products, plant and spirits. It’s a true reflection of how dynamic the Waterford business offering is.

“The Local Enterprise Office created these awards to promote sustainability in business in Waterford. They also promote what the LEO is offering businesses, showcase what is currently happening in the county, rewards those who are investing in their own and everyone’s future and most importantly they encourage others to do likewise.

“The LEO wants to show other businesses that investment in this area is not only the right thing to do, but the smart thing too, for every business. Every finalist today will tell you that they have reaped the benefits of their investment, and it’s just the tip of the iceberg. We want these awards to grow and have more and more entries every year.”

For further information on the Glas and other Local Enterprise Office Awards, follow this link www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford, contact LEO Waterford at 051 849905 or email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie 

By Waterford City & County Council

Deadline Approaching: Notice of Rent Review 2024

Rent Review 2024

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

In order to ensure that we have the household’s correct and up to date details, tenants are requested to complete the Rent Review Form regarding their household make-up and income details. Rent Review forms will be posted directly to all tenants.

It is the tenant’s responsibility, under your Tenancy Agreement, to ensure that you 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 rent 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.
  • If in receipt of an occupational pension or state pension from abroad provide details.
  • 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 07th October 2024 to the Customer Service Desk, Waterford City & County Council, Bailey’s New St. Waterford X91 XH42, or Civic Offices, Davitts Quay Dungarvan, Co. Waterford X35 Y326.

 Queries to: rentreview@waterfordcouncil.ie

By Waterford City & County Council

CUISLE CEOIL Commemorative Concert celebrates Ardmore’s bygone Irish College

A very special evening of Irish language song and traditional music took place in St. Paul’s Church, Ardmore on Friday night last, September 27th, when a packed church celebrated the legacy of Coláiste Deuglán, a thriving Irish College that existed in the seaside village of Ardmore one hundred years ago.

Organised by the Irish Office of Waterford City and County Council, the commemorative concert featured three choirs and local musicians, who shared memories of bygone days when the Irish language was spoken daily in Ardmore. Featured Gaeltacht male voice choir, Cór Fear na nDéise, directed by Darren Ó Droma were joined for this special event by the local Ardmore Community Choir and by children from the local national school, Scoil Náisiúnta Deuglán Naofa. The Ardmore Community Choir, directed by Anne Gartland opened the concert with a beautiful rendition of ‘Sliabh Geal gCua’ and all three choirs sang songs in Irish, including songs from a booklet entitled ‘Cuisle Ceoil’, a collection of songs of the Déise, which was published one hundred years ago in July 1924 by local Ardmore man, Mícheál Ó Foghlú, one of the founders of Coláiste Deuglán.

Cuisle Ceoil was used as a songbook by those who attended Coláiste Deuglán from the 1920s to the 1940s and Councillor Niamh O’Donovan, who attended the concert as a representative of the Mayor of Waterford City & County, spoke on the night of how “wonderful it is to hear those traditional songs, which are such an integral part of our Irish language heritage, being brought to life again here tonight, across the road from where they were formerly sung in Coláiste Deuglán and I am proud to support this and other projects celebrating the rich Irish language culture in Waterford.”

Councillor O’Donovan and Archivist Joanne Rothwell also accepted an original copy of the Cuisle Ceoil songbook and an original photograph of attendees of Coláiste Deuglán in 1938, items which were kindly donated by Olive Keane on behalf of the Keane family, to the Waterford City & County Archive on the night.

In addition to the three choirs, young local traditional musicians Laoise Keevers & Johnjoe Brockie, joined by Katie Halpin Hill from An Rinn, also performed on the night and Irish Officer, Máire Seó Breathnach gave a presentation on the history of Coláiste Deuglán. Máire Seó presented historic photographs of the College and those who attended and she outlined the connections to the Irish college that still exist in Ardmore to this day, as the audience included descendants of those involved with the Irish college at the time, including Mícheál Ó Foghlú’s granddaughter, Marie O’Sullivan.

A highlight of the evening was the finale, in which Cór Fear na nDéise were joined on stage by the children from Ardmore National School to sing ‘Ar Maidin Dia Máirt’ and all three choirs and the audience raised the rafters in song to bring a fitting end to a wonderful evening of entertainment.

The Cuisle Ceoil concert was funded by Creative Waterford programme.

By Waterford City & County Council

Preparation is underway for Irish Road Safety Week 2024

Road Safety Week 2024

Numerous road safety activities planned nationwide

29 September 2024: The Road Safety Authority is seeking support for its national drive to save lives for annual Irish Road Safety Week (IRSW), which takes place from Monday 7 October to Sunday 13 October. With numerous road safety activities planned nationwide, the RSA is encouraging everyone to support the week and get involved with the schedule of events or by planning their own initiatives in their local communities.

Mr Sam Waide, CEO, Road Safety Authority, said: ‘We are running a range of activities nationwide to promote awareness of road safety during the week. If you or your organisation are hosting your own event in your community, we want to hear from you. We can add your event to our IRSW events list on the RSA website and encourage more people to attend. Get involved, find out what’s happening in your local community, and play your part in saving lives and preventing serious injuries on our roads.’

IRSW main list of events

Monday 7 October – Tyre Safety Day

The Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) members around Ireland are inviting all motorists to call in for a FREE tyre pressure check and thread depth inspection during Irish Road Safety Week. A visit to www.itia.ie will lead motorists to their nearest ITIA registered dealer. Drivers can download a copy of ‘Your Guide to Tyre Safety’ which includes information on buying second-hand tyres.

Tuesday 8 October: Pedestrian Awareness Day

The RSA will be revealing new research into fatalities and serious injuries among pedestrians up to 2023. This report has been prepared using data from the Irish Road Traffic Collision Database,

Wednesday 9 October:

The RSA will hold its Annual Conference. This year’s conference will look at the theme of ‘Distracted Driving’ and will feature speakers from Ireland and abroad who will share research into the impact of driver distraction and best practice in addressing the issue.

Thursday 10 October:

The next meeting of the Road Safety Youth Forum will be held in Dublin. The Road Safety Youth Forum aims to deepen engagement and provide a safe space for young people to discuss their common concerns on road safety.

Friday 11 October – National Child Safety Day:

It provides an opportunity for pre-schoolers to get involved in road safety. Pre-schools pre-ordered Beep Beep packs in early September on the RSA website and the RSA will be distributing these packs, with over 50,000 high visibility vests to pre-schools nationwide, in time for National Child Safety Day.

Additionally, the RSA Shuttle and Rollover will be visiting a number of schools throughout Irish Road Safety Week. It will be in counties Clare, Sligo and Monaghan that week. Its primary school experience Street Smart will be at a primary school in Westmeath.

Check it Fits, the RSA’s free child car seat checking service, will be visiting Leitrim, Roscommon, Longford (full schedule and locations in the notes to editor) during Irish Road Safety Week. Get your child car seat checked to ensure your child is travelling safely in your car. For more details on these and other locations please visit the Check it Fits section of the RSA website here.

The RSA National Road Safety Education Service will be travelling the length and breadth of the country, delivering road safety education programmes to crèches, schools, universities, workplaces and communities throughout the week.

The RSA Leading Lights in Road Safety Awards are back, and nominations are now open for 2024. Now in its fourteenth year, the awards recognise and honour the contribution made by individuals, groups and communities in reducing serious injuries and deaths on our roads.  If you know about a school, businesses and individual who is committed to making our roads safer, nominate them for a Leading Light award here. Closing date for submissions is Friday 11th October.

To find out more about IRSW please see Irish Road Safety Week 2024 (rsa.ie) .

By Waterford City & County Council

Battle of wits and words in ‘A.I. is NOT a Threat to Humanity’ Soapbox debate

This year’s Regional Europe Direct Soapbox public speaking competition takes place in the Dr Mary Strangman Large Room in City Hall, The Mall, Waterford on Wednesday, November 6th.

The topic is ‘A.I. (Artificial Intelligence) is not a threat to Humanity’ and entrants are invited to deliver a three-minute speech for or against the topic.

The competition, sponsored by the European Commission Representation and supported by Waterford City and County Council, is open to entrants in two categories: ages 16 and under or 17 and over. 

Regional winners will go on to represent their region in the national competition at the Royal College of Physicians in Dublin on November 26th.

Breda O’Shea, Executive Librarian with Waterford City and County Council said, “I would encourage young people to enter the Soapbox competition. Whether you’re a proficient public speaker or have a particular viewpoint on the topic, it’s a wonderful experience in expressing your views and it’s also a great confidence booster.

“As well as going on to represent your region in the national finals and have a chance to win €1,000 worth of One4All vouchers, regional winners will receive a prize of an iPad.”

Caoilan Walsh, last year’s winner of the 17 & over category added, “The Soapbox was an absolutely wonderful experience, and I would do it again if I could. I had a wonderful time both from the competition and social aspect. I learned so much about both Irish and EU politics from the study I did for my speech.

“Just taking part was enough for me, but winning was a better feeling than I can ever describe! If you or someone you know is interested in public speaking or the world around you, I would highly recommend entering the soapbox competition.”

The term soapbox originates in the use of an empty crate as a platform by speakers to give speeches, often impromptu, to passers-by from around the turn of the last century. The most famous location for soapbox oratory is Speakers Corner in Hyde Park, London, which has been a setting for public speaking since the 1870s.

To enter you can download the application form and read the competition rules from the Europe Direct Waterford page https://waterfordlibraries.ie/europe-direct/ or call into any of Waterford’s 12 Library branches.  Emailed application forms will be issued with a confirmation of receipt email. Please contact Central Library on 051 849975 if you don’t receive confirmation.

Closing date for application is 4.30pm, Friday November 1st, 2024.

By Waterford City & County Council

CUISLE CEOIL Coirm cheoil i gcomóradh ar Choláiste Gaeilge na hAirde Móire fadó

Tionóladh oíche iontach cheoil agus amhránaíochta Gaeilge in Eaglais Naomh Pól san Aird Mhór, Co Phort Láirge ar an Aoine seo caite, 27 Meán Fómhair mar cheiliúradh ar Choláiste Deuglán, Coláiste Gaeilge a bhí in ard a réime i sráidbhaile cois cósta na hAirde Móire céad bliain ó shin.

Eagraithe ag Oifig na Gaeilge de Chomhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, bhí trí chór agus ceoltóirí áitiúla páirteach sa cheolchoirm speisialta seo, i gcuimhne ar uair nuair a bhí an Ghaeilge mar theanga labhartha laethúil san Aird Mhór. Bhí Cór Fear na nDéise, faoi stiúr Darren Ó Droma, mar aoianna speisialta na hoíche, agus in éineacht leo bhí Cór Pobail na hAirde Móire agus páistí ó Scoil Náisiúnta Deuglán Naofa san Aird Mhór. D’oscail Cór Pobail na hAirde Móire an coirm cheoil le leagan álainn den amhrán Sliabh Geal gCua, faoi stiúr Anne Gartland, agus chan an trí chór réimse d’amhráin Ghaeilge, ina measc amhráintí a foilsíodh i leabhrán dar teideal ‘Cuisle Ceoil’, bailiúchán amhrán na nDéise, a foilsíodh céad bliain ó shin, i mí Iúil 1924, ag fear áitiúil Mícheál Ó Foghlú, duine de bhunaitheoirí Choláiste Deuglán.

Bhí Cuisle Ceoil mar leabhar amhrán acu siúd a d’fhreastal ar Choláiste Deuglán idir na 1920daí agus na 1940daí agus labhair an Comhairleoir Niamh O’Donovan, a d’fhreastal ar an gcoirm cheoil mar ionadaí ar Mhéara Chathair & Chontae Phort Láirge, faoi “cé chomh hálainn is a bhí sé éisteacht leis na hamhráintí traidisiúnta, atá mar dhlúthchuid dár n-oidhreacht Ghaeilge, agus beocht curtha iontu arís anseo anocht, díreach trasna an bhóthair ón áit ar canadh iad i gColáiste Deuglán, agus tá bród orm tacú leis an ócáid seo agus le tograí eile a dheineann ceiliúradh ar chultúr saibhir na Gaeilge i bPort Láirge.”

Ghlac an Comhairleoir O’Donovan agus Cartlannaí Joanne Rothwell, le bunchóip den leabhrán Cuisle Ceoil agus de ghrianghraf daoibh siúd a d’fhreastal ar Choláiste Deuglán sa bhliain 1938 ar an oíche, dá iarsma a bhronn Olive Keane, thar cheann a muintir, ar Chartlann Phort Láirge.

Chomh maith leis an trí chór, sheinn ceoltóirí óga Laoise Nic Íomhair agus Johnjoe Brockie ón Aird Mhor, in éineacht le Katie Halpin Hill ón Rinn, sa choirm cheoil chomh maith agus thug an tOifigeach Gaeilge, Máire Seó Breathnach cur i láthair ar stair Choláiste Deuglán. Roinn sí sean-ghrianghrafanna den gColáiste agus daoibh siúd a d’fhreastal air, agus thug sí cur síos ar na ceangail atá fós idir an choláiste agus muintir na hAirde Móire sa lá atá inniu ann. Bhí sliocht cuid acu siúd a bhí bainteach leis an gColáiste sa lucht féachana ar an oíche, ina measc Marie O’Sullivan, gar-iníon le Mícheál Ó Foghlú.

Bhí an finale, nuair a roinn Cór Fear na nDéise an stáitse le páistí Scoil Náisiúnta Deuglán Naofa chun an t-amhrán ‘Ar Maidin Dia Máirt’ a chanadh, ar ceann de bhuaicphointí na hoíche agus tháinig an trí chór agus an lucht féachana le chéile chun an t-amhrán a chanadh le fonn agus le fuinneamh, mar chríoch chuí le hoíche iontach cheiliúrtha.

D’eagraíodh Cuisle Ceoil le tacaíocht ó chlár Éire Ildánach Phort Láirge.

By Waterford City & County Council

International Delegates Celebrate Erasmus + WikiWomen Initiative at Waterford’s Celtic Knot Conference

Metropolitan Mayor Cllr Joe Kelly Pictured with with members of the Wikimedia Malaysia User Group

The Celtic Knot Conference kicked off on Wednesday, 25th September, at the Tower Hotel, Waterford, bringing together international delegates from across the globe to discuss language diversity and digital inclusion. The conference has been running since 2017, beginning as a collaboration between Wikimedia UK and the University of Edinburgh. Over the years it has been hosted in Wales and Cornwall, and due to the pandemic moved online for a number of years. This year the conference returned with a hybrid model, having grown its international reach by going virtual. This year Wikimedia Community Ireland hosted the event, in partnership with Wikimedia UK supported by funding from the Wikimedia Foundation.

From Wednesday 25th to Friday 27th September delegates presented and discussed a variety of projects within the Wikimedia movement which work with various minoritised and indigenous languages around the globe. On Thursday, 26th September, Wikimedia Community Ireland hosted their Erasmus+ Multiplier event as part of the conference program, featuring the launch of the WikiWomen Schools Toolkit.

The day began with a networking coffee morning, providing attendees an opportunity to connect and discuss shared interests in language preservation, digital literacy, and gender equality. This was followed by a formal welcome from Metropolitan Mayor Cllr Joe Kelly, who addressed the gathering and officially opened the multiplier event.

“We are delighted to welcome delegates from around the world to Waterford, a city that proudly embraces its role in global digital initiatives,” said Cllr Kelly. “The WikiWomen project is an inspiring example of how we can bridge gender gaps and promote language diversity online, while connecting communities through shared knowledge and culture. It’s fantastic to see Waterford at the centre of such important work.”

Praising the initiative, Cllr Kelly continued “I am immensely impressed with the work being done here. This project isn’t just about Wikipedia; it’s about bringing people from all over the world together to share their cultures, experiences, and languages. It’s fantastic to see such collaboration and dedication, and I truly believe this is one of the most impactful projects I’ve encountered.”

The WikiWomen Schools Toolkit, developed as part of the Erasmus+ program, was a key focus of the event. Amy O’Riordan, Irish Language Officer with Wikimedia Community Ireland, introduced the project, emphasising its importance in the Digital Age. The toolkit is the first of its kind in Ireland, designed specifically for second-level students to improve their research, writing, as well as information and digital literacy skills through the Irish language, while also addressing the gender gap on Wikipedia and Vicipéid.

“The WikiWomen project, part of the Erasmus+ program, aims to close the gender gap on Wikipedia by empowering students to write about the achievements of notable women, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people who are all under-represented online. It’s been incredible to see the enthusiasm and dedication from the students involved, and we are excited to continue this important work of linking digital literacy with language preservation, especially in the Irish language.” – Amy O’Riordan [Oifigeach Gaeilge at Wikimedia Community Ireland]

The highlight of the morning was a presentation by four students from Coláiste Oiriall, Co. Monaghan, accompanied by their múinteoir, Faela Mhic Dhomhnaill. The students shared their experiences working on the WikiWomen project, including their research on notable women and how it helped them develop both their communication and research skills, through a bilingual presentation through Irish and English.

Faela MhicDhomhnaill remarked, “This project has opened doors we never expected, allowing our students to contribute to something much bigger and to respect the collaborative efforts of the global Wikimedia community. It’s amazing to see them become part of this initiative.” The presentation was met with praise from all attendees, including John Walsh from Foras na Gaeilge, who described the project and students’ presentation as “absolutely inspirational and exceptional and exemplary.”

A panel discussion moderated by Sophie Fitzpatrick, Program and Communications Manager with Wikimedia Community Ireland, followed the student presentations. Panellists included Amy O’Riordan, Shannon Eichelberger (Chairperson of Wikimedia Community Ireland), Galder Gonzalez (Basque Wiki), and Faela Mhic Dhomhnailll. The panel explored the development of the toolkit, its impact, and the importance of collaboration between schools, GLAMs (Galleries,

Libraries, Archives, and Museums), and Wikimedia. Galder Gonzalez then gave a live demonstration of the WikiWomen Schools Toolkit, showcasing its accessibility and flexibility. He highlighted how the toolkit is available on Meta Wikimedia and can be translated into different languages. Within hours of the event, translations of the toolkit had begun into Malay, Brazilian Portuguese, and Central Borus Dusun.

The event also highlighted two significant global initiatives—Pitabangan and Wiki Loves Monuments. The Pitabangan initiative, organised by the Wikimedia Malaysia User Group, focused on creating and improving articles about Waterford in native languages from around the world. This nine-day global collaboration mirrors the Irish tradition of “meitheal,” where communities come together for collective work, strengthening cultural ties across borders and sharing knowledge in an open forum.

Additionally, the Wiki Loves Monuments competition, a global photography contest that encourages people to document cultural heritage sites, showcased stunning images of Irish landmarks. Both initiatives emphasise the role of digital platforms in preserving local culture and history on a global stage.

Hot to Get Involved

Wikimedia Community Ireland remains open to partnerships with schools and GLAMs interested in adopting the project and receiving support in implementing the toolkit. For teachers, students, and educational programs interested in getting involved with the WikiWomen project, this is a unique opportunity to promote gender equality and enhance digital literacy through the Irish language. Whether you’re looking to bring the program into your classroom, youth group, or community, we invite you to join this international effort. For more information about the general project, visit www.wikiwomen.eu.

Any Irish teachers or schools interested in participating can get in touch directly with Wikimedia Community Ireland’s Oifigeach Gaeilge via email at oifigeach.gaeilge@wikimedia.ie to learn how to implement the program and receive support. Let’s work together to close the gender gap and elevate minority languages on Wikipedia!

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