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By Waterford City & County Council

€893,454 in Outdoor Recreation Funding Announced for Waterford

Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, has today (Monday, November 3rd 2025) announced €16.5 million to deliver 63 projects nationwide through the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS). Three of those successful funding applications relate to outdoor recreation projects in Cappoquin, Dunmore East, and Villierstown.

The funding announced is in respect of Measures 2 and 3 of the scheme which provides funding of up to €500,000 for strategic repair and maintenance of existing facilities together with the development of new recreational infrastructure. The successful Waterford projects include the following:

Cappoquin Railway Bridge Walk; Development of Phase 2 which includes upgrade works from Cappoquin Slipway to the proposed viewing point over-looking the railway viaduct known as the Old Red Bridge, as well as further accessibility improvements adjacent to Cappoquin Boat Club grounds and Avonmore Bridge. Phase 1 was recently completed with the upgrade and development of the walkway along the quay wall, enhanced access road to the Boat Club, as well as public lighting, landscaping and ancillary infrastructure. The project has been well received by the local community. Phase 2 has received €493,454 under this latest funding announcement.

Dunmore East Coastal Walk; Upgrade of the surface of the walking trail surface of Dunmore East Coastal Walk between Portally Cove and Ballymacaw Cove. Dunmore East Coastal Walk has long been one of Waterford’s most popular walking trails with visitors to this amenity enjoying stunning coastal views along this 7km stretch of coastal walkway. This latest announcement will provide funding which will be invested in the upgrade of the surface for future generations to enjoy. The project has received €200,000.00 in funding.

Villierstown Quay Enhancement Project; Enhancement and upgrade to facilitate water based outdoor recreation activities. The proposed development will upgrade the existing access to the River Blackwater for water based recreational activities at Villierstown Quay. The project includes the following elements: Construction of reinforced concrete canoe steps on the riverbank of the river Blackwater, with associated filling in of lawn area at the rear of the canoe step structure, replacement of the existing floating pontoon with a modern floating pontoon, provision of a canoe washdown area, resurfacing of the existing asphalt surface of the quay, resurfacing of the existing slipway, construction of a path and steps to the south of the quay to provide access to the water, landscape works including removal of overgrown native vegetation on the river’s edge, provision of natural play features, and signage/interpretation boards in lawn area in front of existing boathouse. The project has received €200,000.00 in funding.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Seamus Ryan welcomed this positive announcement for Waterford’s outdoor amenities by saying, “Since 2017 the ORIS scheme has provided invaluable support for the provision of outstanding outdoor recreation experiences here in Waterford. I would like to sincerely thank Minister Calleary and his staff at the DRCDG for this ongoing support. Not only do these amenities enhance Waterford’s reputation as an outdoor destination for visitors to the area but they also help ensure the health and well-being of the local population and build resilience in our communities. I would like to warmly congratulate staff at Waterford City and County Council along with the local community groups involved in the submission of these applications.”

Stakeholders involved in the area of outdoor recreation here in Waterford are currently preparing the first ever Waterford Outdoor Recreation Plan, in line with the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy. All of the projects funded under this most recent announcement will very much support the implementation on this plan once it is launched in 2026.

Further details of today’s announcement can be found at ORIS Measure 2 & 3 Approvals

For more information on Waterford trails and the great outdoors visit https://visitwaterford.com/activity-category/trails

By Waterford City & County Council

Winterval Road Closure arrangements

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

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

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

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

Winterval 2025 - Road Closures

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford Rural Tourism Network Learning Journey to the Comeragh region

The Waterford Rural Tourism Network’s most recent Learning Journey to the Comeragh region took place recently and was the fifth and final in the series, which saw the network members travel through the five geographical cluster areas; the Blackwater Valley, Copper Coast, Gaeltacht na nDéise, Waterford Estuary and Comeragh.

The objectives of the Learning Journeys are to allow local businesses to develop a greater understanding of Waterford’s rural tourism offering, to build lasting relationships among tourism providers, to ultimately enable the members to promote Waterford as a destination through creating itineraries for visitors.

Over thirty participants from Waterford’s tourism businesses and agencies were guided through the beautiful terrain by Stíofán MácCartaigh of Steps Back Thru Time. Stíofan was a fantastically engaging tour guide, effectively communicating the lore of the Comeragh region to the participants. Everyone on the day developed a greater understanding of the culture and topography of the Comeraghs and the local community as a direct result of Stíofán’s storytelling.

The first stop of the day was at the majestic Mount Congreve Gardens. The participants were welcomed by Estate Director, Ray Sinnott, who spoke of their visitor experience and made particular reference to the new accommodation offering.

Next, it was all aboard the Waterford Suir Valley Railway. The group travelled along the Greenway enjoying the views of the mighty river Suir, from the narrow-gauge steam train. Everyone was then welcomed to Kilmeaden station by Marie Reid, who highlighted the recent works being carried out to make the WSVR experience even better.

The journey continued to Nell’s Farmhouse. This was one of the standout moments of the day, as Mary Flynn got the group involved in making their own butter. This was then enjoyed with Mary’s homemade bread, which also forms part of the unique experience on offer there.

One of the incredibly unique accommodation options in county Waterford are the Comeragh Pods. The participants were given a tour of the grounds by Tracy Quinlan. Between the hot tub, the stunning views, and of course the beautifully designed pods the group were blown away.

A delicious lunch was served to the members in Cooney’s Yard by Bridget & Willie Drohan. While enjoying the local produce the group heard from Willie Drohan about the story of Comeragh Lamb, its origins and some background on highland sheep farming.

After lunch the group travelled to the magical Crough Wood being escorted by Mario MacRory, who expertly pointed out the many flora and fauna on route and spoke about his photography hiking experience. In Crough Wood Claire O’Sullivan guided the group through a forest bathing session, which was both grounding and restorative. Some participants learned for the first time about the magic and lore of the stunning Crough Wood. 

The day ended on a high, quite literally, as Willie Corcoran from Mayfield Birds of Prey displayed a fascinating array of owls, hawks and an impressive golden eagle.

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

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

By Waterford City & County Council

BRONKOBEAT Bring the Noise from Märkischer Kreis to Spraoi

BRONKOBEAT recently travelled from the Märkischer Kreis region in Germany to take part in the 32nd annual Spraoi Festival. The band were a fantastic addition to the vibrant programme of events on offer over the Bank Holiday weekend.

The five-person band, which was founded in 2011, is comprised of Jens on guitar, Carsten on bass and vocals, Micro on drums, Jan on the saxophone & Jörg on vocals & guitar.

Over the course of the weekend the band delivered energetic performances on stages in The Cultural Quarter, The Apple Market & The Churchyard.

The BRONKOBEAT created a fantastic, fun-filled atmosphere at each gig performing songs from Tom Robinson, John Mellencamp, and Fisher Z, as well as favourites from Tom Petty, Thin Lizzy, HIM, Whitesnake, Foo Fighters, and many more.

This latest cultural collaboration, between Waterford & our twinning partners, Märkischer Kreis, was a terrific success and BRONKOBEAT enhanced what was a super weekend of performances by Spraoi.

By Waterford City & County Council

A Warm Welcome Back to Waterford’s Welcome Ambassadors

 

Waterford’s Welcome Ambassadors made a very welcome return to Waterford last weekend.  Since 2011 the Waterford Welcome Ambassadors initiative has been supported by Waterford City and County Council and Waterford Chamber.

Welcome Ambassadors meet and greet cruise liners and coaches and offer visitors local tips on Waterford’s amazing and unique offering, covering all things to see and do. The ambassadors advise visitors on places to eat and drink by offering recommendations of where best to enjoy Waterford’s culinary delights. The team have a wealth of knowledge on Waterford’s culture and heritage and assist visitors on how to get to the many spectacular locations and attractions we have all around County Waterford.

Deputy Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Adam Wyse said, “It is fantastic to have friendly volunteers on the streets helping visitors find their way around Waterford. Much thanks must go to all the volunteers who give their time to provide the service; their pride in promoting Waterford is inspiring.”

The Volunteer Centre recently moved to a new office which is located at 21 O’Connell Street. Réka Széplaki, Manager of the Waterford Volunteer Centre, said, “The welcome ambassadors do amazing work in promoting County Waterford and providing an extra layer of comfort to help our visitors become orientated. We are very proud of the work the programme delivers, and we look forward to the busy season ahead.”

Mealla Fahey from Lismore Heritage Centre & Visit Waterford added, “I really admire the passion the welcome ambassadors bring to the different communities across Waterford, they truly deliver a richer visitor experience. The volunteers play a key role and are an asset to tourism in Waterford.”

Waterford Chamber oversees the Programme in Tramore through the Tourist Information Centre and Lynda Lawton, Operations Officer, remarked, “Visitors to Waterford are treated to so many unique cultural and historical experiences, but what makes it even more special is the Volunteer Welcome Ambassadors. They are so knowledgeable, warm and bring the city and county to life. Not only that, but they are an incredible source of information for our own Waterfordians and are only too happy to help.

“Waterford Chamber is proud to facilitate the Tramore Welcome Ambassadors through the Tourist Information Hub, under the stewardship of Johnny O’Grady.”

The Waterford Welcome Ambassador Programme runs every weekend in Waterford City, Tramore, Lismore and in Dunmore East.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer Waterford Welcome Ambassador email vicky@volunteerwaterford.ie for more details or drop into the volunteer centre in O’Connell Street.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford Rural Tourism Network Learning Journey to the Waterford Estuary

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Waterford City & County Council

Visit Waterford launches folklore initiative for local schools

🌟 Exciting News for Waterford Schools! 🌟

Visit Waterford has unveiled an exciting new folklore initiative as part of its 2025 campaign, aiming to collaborate with primary and secondary schools throughout Waterford City and County. This project invites students to delve into the myths, legends, and rich traditions of their local areas. Through research, interviews, and creative writing, participants will explore and document the storytelling heritage of Waterford, uncovering tales passed down through generations.​

Selected stories will be featured in a published folklore e-book on the Visit Waterford website and showcased during a special Culture Night event in September 2025. This initiative offers students a unique opportunity to connect with their local culture, foster community pride, and become young custodians of Waterford’s folklore legacy.​

Schools interested in participating are encouraged to contact Clare at clare@visitwaterford.com for more information.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford Rural Tourism Network Learning Journey to the Gaeltacht na nDéise

A day of ‘craic agus ceol’, shared learning and exceptional stories all unfolded in the resplendent landscapes of Gaeltacht na nDéise on Thursday 6th March.

Tourism businesses and agencies from across Waterford met in Dungarvan to begin the Learning Journey through the Gaeltacht na nDéise area of Waterford. This was the third in a series of five Learning Journeys that are 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; develop a greater understanding of the tourism experiences and products located in Gaeltacht na nDéise; connect, collaborate, gain personal learnings to help their business, and the wider Waterford tourism destination.

Over 40 participants guided along their journey through Gaeltacht na nDéise by Éimhín Ní Conchúir of Solás na Mara (based in Gaeltacht na nDéise). Éimhín spoke seamlessly in Irish and English and made the participants instantly at ease to try a cúpla focal.

The first stop of the day was the Joan Clancy Gallery. Joan graciously gave a tour of her beautiful home and gallery where she recounted stories of her and her husband’s life, the famous Tom Clancy, as well as showcasing the beautiful artwork on display.

Our second stop of the day was to Coláiste na Rinne where, its director, Críostóir Ó Faoláin gave the group an insight into how the Coláiste was formed, how it has developed over the years and the courses, facilities & classes now on offer.

Other businesses from Gaeltacht na nDéise introduced their offering at Coláiste na Rinne including; Deidre Magner of Amble on Tours which offers fantastic bespoke tours for small groups that blend education, relaxation and fun, while Nicola & Grahame Morphey of Glenmore Villa offer a unique culinary, kitchen garden and fine dining learning experience.

The last speaker at the Coláiste was Cabríní de Barra from Comhlucht Forbartha na nDéise.  Comhlucht Forbartha na nDéise is the community and language development body for Gaeltacht na nDéise. It was established in 2005 to bring together and coordinate the community and language development of the communities in An Rinn and An Sean Phobal.

Liam Suipéil acted as guide for our journey from Coláiste na Rinne to the next stop of Mooney’s Pub. At Mooney’s Pub, which is serviced by the TFI Local Link, the group experienced this truly unique location, a perfect place to enjoy a fireside chat ‘as Gaeilge’.

At the very peaceful surrounds of Sólás na Mara, located at Ceann Heilbhic, Éimhín Ní Chonchúir and the team described to the group the many treatments they have on offer from seaweed baths to facials and highlighted some of the local products they use, and sell, on the premises.

The bus journeyed to The Marine Bar where everyone enjoyed some delicious food, & live music by Eoghan O’Neill, in very comfortable surroundings.

At Criostal na Rinne, Éamonn Terry gave a demonstration of how his team prepares and cuts the beautiful crystal. Éamonn educated the group on the methods and training required to achieve the level of Master Craftsman.

The day ended in Tigh Mhuirithe Pub, which has one of the most stunning views in all of Ireland. The group were warmly welcomed with a ‘cupán tae’ by the Bean an Tí, Breda Murray. Stefanie Strude from Heritage Connections spoke to the group about the amazing bi-lingual events hosted there which involve people, with all levels of Irish, coming together to enjoy a chat and a singalong in very welcoming surroundings.

These events allow people of all ages and stages to learn more about the Irish language and how to incorporate it into their day to day lives. This experience neatly encapsulates what the Gaeltacht na nDéise is trying to achieve and the visit ended with the group happily singing a chorus of ‘Báidín Fheilimí’.

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

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

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

By Waterford City & County Council

Turas Foghlama Líonra Turasóireachta Tuaithe Phort Láirge go Gaeltacht na nDéise

Bhí lá craic agus ceoil, comhfhoghlaim agus scéalta iontacha i dtírdhreacha iontacha Ghaeltacht na nDéise ar an Déardaoin, 6 Márta.

Tháinig gnólachtaí agus gníomhaireachtaí turasóireachta ó ar fud Phort Láirge le chéile i nDún Garbhán chun tús a chur leis an Turas Foghlama trí cheantar Ghaeltacht na nDéise i bPort Láirge. Ba é seo an tríú ceann i sraith de chúig Thuras Foghlama atá á reáchtáil i ngach ceann de na cúig cheantar chnuasaigh in 2024 agus 2025, siad san: Gleann na hAbha Móire, Ardtailte an Chomaraigh, Cósta an Chopair, Gaeltacht na nDéise, agus Inbhear Phort Láirge.

Thug an Turas Foghlama deis do ghnólachtaí áitiúla chun; tuiscint níos fearr a fhorbairt ar na heispéiris agus na táirgí turasóireachta atá lonnaithe i nGaeltacht na nDéise; nascadh, comhoibriú, foghlaim phearsanta a fháil chun cabhrú lena ngnó agus le ceann scríbe turasóireachta níos leithne Phort Láirge.

Threoraigh Éimhín Ní Conchúir ó Solás na Mara (atá lonnaithe i nGaeltacht na nDéise) níos mó ná 40 rannpháirtí ar a dturas trí Ghaeltacht na nDéise. Labhair Éimhín gan stró i nGaeilge agus i mBéarla agus thug sé deis do na rannpháirtithe triail a bhaint as a gcúpla focal.

Ba é an chéad stad ar an lá ná Gailearaí Joan Clancy. Thug Joan turas ar a teach álainn agus ar a gailearaí, áit ar inis sí scéalta faoina saol féin agus faoi shaol a fir chéile, Tom Clancy ón ngrúpa cáiliúil, chomh maith leis an saothar ealaíne álainn atá sa ghailearaí a thaispeáint.

An dara stad a bhí againn ná Coláiste na Rinne, áit ar thug a stiúrthóir, Críostóir Ó Faoláin, léargas don ghrúpa ar conas a bunaíodh an Coláiste, conas a d’fhorbair sé thar na blianta agus na cúrsaí, na háiseanna agus na ranganna atá ar fáil ann anois.

Chuir gnólachtaí eile ó Ghaeltacht na nDéise a dtairiscint i láthair ag Coláiste na Rinne, ina measc; Deidre Magner ó Amble on Tours, a chuireann turais shaincheaptha iontacha ar fáil do ghrúpaí beaga a nascann oideachas, scíth agus spraoi, agus cuireann Nicola & Grahame Morphey ó Glenmore Villa eispéireas uathúil cócaireachta, gairdín cistine agus foghlama bia ar fáil.

Ba é Cabrini de Barra ó Chomhlucht Forbartha na nDéise an cainteoir deireanach ag an gColáiste. Is é Comhlucht Forbartha na nDéise an comhlacht forbartha pobail agus teanga do Ghaeltacht na nDéise. Bunaíodh é in 2005 chun pobal agus forbairt teanga phobal na Rinne agus phobal an tSean Phobail a thabhairt le chéile agus a chomhordú.

D’fheidhmigh Liam Suipéil mar threoraí dár dturas ó Choláiste na Rinne go dtí an chéad stad eile – Teach tábhairne Uí Mhaonaigh. Ag an teach tabhairne, atá seirbhísithe ag Nasc Áitiúil TFI, bhain an grúpa taitneamh as an áit uathúil seo, áit iontach do chomhrá cois tine as Gaeilge.

In ionad suaimhneach Sólás na Mara i gCeann Helbhic, rinne Éimhín Ní Chonchúir agus an fhoireann cur síos don ghrúpa ar an iliomad cóireálacha atá ar fáil acu ó fholcadáin feamainne go dtí cóireálacha aghaidhe agus leag siad béim ar chuid de na táirgí áitiúla a úsáideann siad, agus a dhíolann siad san áit.

Chuaigh an bus ar aghaidh ansan go dtí an Marine Bar, áit ar bhain gach duine sult as bia blasta, agus as ceol beo le Eoghan O’Neill, i dtimpeallacht an-chompordach.

Ag Criostal na Rinne, thug Éamonn Terry léiriú ar conas a ullmhaíonn agus a ghearrann a fhoireann an criostail álainn. Chuir Eamon oideachas ar an ngrúpa ar na modhanna agus an oiliúint a theastaíonn chun leibhéal an Scothcheardaithe a bhaint amach.

Chríochnaigh an lá i dtigh tabhairne Tigh Mhuirithe, ag a bhfuil ceann de na radharcanna is áille in Éirinn. Cuireadh fáilte mhór roimh an ghrúpa le cupán tae ó Bhean an Tí, Breda Murray. Labhair Stefanie Strude ó Heritage Connections leis an ghrúpa faoi na himeachtaí iontacha dátheangacha a óstáiltear ann ina mbíonn daoine, le gach leibhéal Gaeilge, ag teacht le chéile chun taitneamh a bhaint as comhrá agus amhránaíocht i dtimpeallacht an-fháilteach.

Tugann na himeachtaí seo deis do dhaoine de gach aois agus de gach céim níos mó a fhoghlaim faoin nGaeilge agus conas í a ionchorprú ina saol laethúil. Cuimsíonn an t-eispéireas seo go néata an méid atá Gaeltacht na nDéise ag iarraidh a bhaint amach agus tháinig deireadh leis an gcuairt leis an ngrúpa ag canadh an chúrfá ó ‘Bháidin Fheilimí’ go sona sásta.

Tá an Turas Foghlama seo go Gaeltacht na nDéise mar chuid de chlár forbartha Líonra Turasóireachta Tuaithe Phort Láirge, atá á mhaoiniú agus á thacú ag Comhairle Cathrach & Contae Phort Láirge agus Fáilte Éireann, agus á sheachadadh ag Runda Hospitality and Tourism Solutions.

Ba mhaith le Comhairle Cathrach & Contae Phort Láirge agus Fáilte Éireann buíochas a ghabháil leis na gnólachtaí ar fad a ghlac páirt ann agus go háirithe leis na gnólachtaí a d’oibrigh linn chun na gnéithe éagsúla den Turas Foghlama a óstáil.

Más mian leat tuilleadh eolais a fháil faoi Líonra Turasóireachta Tuaithe Phort Láirge nó páirt a ghlacadh i gceann de na cúig Chuasach i bPort Láirge seol ríomhphost chuig caroline@runda.ie.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford features on Nationwide this evening @7pm, RTÉ 1

Waterford tree survey

It’s National Tree Week and the RTÉ Nationwide team is in Waterford this evening to explore Waterford City and County Council’s innovative GIS (Geographic Information System) Tree mapping survey.

They also talk to members of the horticulture and biodiversity teams, along with community groups, which are working to enrich their communities and enhance biodiversity through tree-planting initiatives around the county.

Tune in this evening (Monday 10th) at 7pm, RTÉ One.

By Waterford City & County Council

Discovering, Connecting and Collaborating to enhance Tourism in Waterford

On Thursday, February 27th at Gardenmorris Estate, Kill, Co. Waterford over 100 tourism and hospitality businesses from across Waterford came together to discover, connect and collaborate to enhance tourism in Waterford. 

The Waterford Rural Tourism Network is made up of five cluster areas; Copper Coast, Blackwater Valley, Comeraghs, Gaeltacht na nDéise, and Waterford Estuary. The aim of the network is to build the capabilities of their individual business as well as enhance the overall tourism offering in Waterford.

Participants from the tourism sector, including accommodation providers, visitor attractions, hospitality, and culture & heritage amenities, were in attendance, and enjoyed insightful panel discussions, a lively networking session and delicious food created by Ni Bhrian Restaurant.

All these elements were conducive to helping achieve the mission of the day, which was to discover rural Waterford and connect business from across the city and county.

WLRfm Journalist and Broadcaster Dymphna Nugent hosted a valuable panel discussion themed ‘Rural Waterford Unwrapped’.  The panel consisted of Joan Clancy of Joan Clancy Art Gallery, Caroline Fletcher O’Connor of Ballyin House, Claire O’Sullivan of Crough Lodge Wellness Retreat/The Mystic Holistic, Elaine Power of East Pier Fish & Chips, and Niall Waters from Surf SUP Tramore.

After the panel discussion Dymphna said, “It’s a pleasure to get to know more of what rural Waterford has to offer, and I know how I will be spending my summer, going from one attraction to the next and really getting to know what’s on our own front door.”

Attendees also heard from Julie O’Brien, Co-ordinator of the Network, of Runda Hospitality and Tourism Solutions, who hosted further panel discussions exploring themes such as ‘Championing Each Other’, and ‘Collaborating to Champion Rural Waterford and County Waterford’. Julie also interviewed Rob Rankin, Owner of Vagabond Tours & Sustainable Tourism Network, who shared his insights on how Waterford can achieve its goal of becoming a leading sustainable tourism destination in Ireland.

Michael Quinn, Director of Economic Development with Waterford City and County Council said, “To create a world class destination requires a collaborative approach. Waterford Council’s delivery of infrastructure and amenities to bolster Waterford’s tourism offering is complemented by the commitment and vision of our local tourism and service providers.  In working together, we can realise the county’s full tourism potential.”

Orna Holohan, Tourism Officer with Waterford City and County Council added, “We have something very special here in Waterford… scenery, heritage, attractions, natural beauty and great food, however it is the people that visitors meet when they come to Waterford, that brings Waterford to life and creates a memorable experience.”

Mary Houlihan, Manager Ireland’s Ancient East spoke passionately about Waterford and highlighted how ‘tourism has the potential to build and sustain rural communities in the County.’ She stressed the importance of all stakeholders, industry and communities working together to make Waterford a compelling tourist destination for domestic and international visitors, saying, “Waterford’s variety of stunning landscapes and rich heritage gives Waterford a real opportunity to become an area that is known for the outdoors with an array of experiences available to suit different visitors.”

The event is part of the Waterford Rural Tourism Network development programme, funded and supported by Waterford City and County Council and Fáilte Ireland, and delivered by Runda Hospitality & Tourism Solutions, with support from key stakeholders Visit Waterford, Waterford Leader Partnership, and Waterford LEO.

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

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Free to use images – Patrick Browne

31: Dymphna Nugent, WLR FM,  Niall Waters – Copper Coast, Surf SUP Tramore, Elaine Power – Waterford Estuary, East Pier Fish & Chips, Claire O’Sullivan – Comeragh, Crough Lodge Wellness Retreat/The Mystic Holistic, Caroline Fletcher O’Connor – Blackwater Valley, Ballyin House

21: Julie O’ Brien – Runda Hospitality & Tourism Solutions, Mary Houlihan – Failte Ireland, Michael Quinn – Waterford City & County Council

04: Clare Busher O’Sullivan – Visit Waterford, Orna Holohan – Waterford City & County Council, Julie O’ Brien – Runda Hospitality & Tourism Solutions, Ivona Carr – Fáilte Ireland, Richard Povey -Taste Waterford, Dymphna Nugent – WLR FM

17: Clare Busher O’Sullivan – Visit Waterford, Shauna Kenneally – House of Waterford, Andrew McDermott – Osprey Viking Cruises, Louise Prendergast – Viking Hotel Waterford, Michael Skehan – Granville Hotel, Ivona Carr – Fáilte Ireland, Jack Burtchaell – Waterford City Walking Tours

38: Waterford Rural Tourism Network event attendees

By Waterford City & County Council

St. Joseph’s, Waterford featured on RTE’s Nationwide

In case you missed it The #Nationwide team visited St. Joseph’s House on Manor Hill, a converted convent that was now home to almost 100 residents.

They talked to members of Waterford City and County Council and residents about bringing the former convent back into use as a fully modernised, energy-efficient housing development in the heart of Waterford city.

To watch on the RTÉ Player visit: https://loom.ly/kbA825o

By Waterford City & County Council

St. Joseph’s, Waterford features on RTE’s Nationwide tonight

St. Josephs, Waterford

Tune into RTÉ at 7pm on Wednesday, February 19th as the Nationwide team visits St. Joseph’s House on Manor Hill, a converted convent that is now home to almost 100 residents.
They talk to members of Waterford City and County Council and residents about bringing the former convent back into use as a fully modernised, energy efficient housing development in the heart of Waterford city.

Upgraded to the highest energy efficiency standards, the former convent has been transformed with 50 dwelling units located within the main building and 21 located in the various out-building clusters on the site, while the former chapel on the site has been repurposed as a community space for multiple uses by tenants.

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