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By Waterford City & County Council

Are you ready for StreetFeast 2024 ?

Street Feast 2024

An estimated 140,000 residents set to take part in Street Feast this year. Ireland’s national weekend of street parties and community celebrations takes place 25th and 26th May 2024

Annually there are more Street Feast participants than Electric Picnic attendees! From city slickers to countryside dwellers, everyone’s invited to the feast. Whether you’ve got a front yard, a street corner, or just a spot to gather, Street Feast knows no bounds.

President Michael D. Higgins said: “We must all by now realise the importance of community, inclusion, creativity and togetherness – all values that require support and a conscious effort of care, protection and solidarity. Initiatives such as Street Feast provide exactly that type of opportunity.”

Street Feast will be held over two days instead of one for the first time meaning a full weekend of celebrations. Over 1,250 communities across Ireland will share food and enjoy some conversation and camaraderie this summer – any excuse to connect with people in your neighbourhood. So let’s get planning.

Organisers say that no matter what kind of place you live in, everyone is invited to participate and host gatherings. It doesn’t matter if you live in an apartment or house, all you need is a space to bring people together. Street Feast has had parties organised in front gardens, on streets and greens, in car parks, laneways, local parks and community centres.

Minister Joe O’Brien: “I am delighted to support Street Feast 2024. The core work of my Department is strengthening communities and enhancing social inclusion. It is important to find ways to connect with people and focus on the importance of neighbours in our communities. Street Feast provides a fantastic opportunity to make time for each other outside of family and friends. I would encourage local communities around the country to get involved in Street Feast 2024 and aim to build communities, tackle isolation and foster connections.”

Founder of Street Feast and Neighbourhood Network CEO, Sam Bishop, said: “For 14 years, Street Feast has been all about bringing folks together over food, fun, and fellowship. And the stats speak for themselves: 97% feel the neighbourly love post-feast, and a whopping 98% say their sense of belonging gets a boost. That’s the magic of community.”

Sam adds: “97% feel their neighbourhood is friendlier since hosting Street Feast and 98% say their sense of belonging has increased since Street Feast. That’s what it’s all about. Running it over two days instead of one will give people more opportunity to celebrate together.”

Register at StreetFeast.ie today and don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to bring your community together and celebrate. Once registered you’ll receive a FREE Street Feast party pack, complete with bunting, posters, invites and a brilliant DIY guide.

Street Feast wouldn’t be possible without the support of Government departments and Street Feast sponsors.

ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Author Colm Tóibín in Conversation at Dungarvan Library

Colm Tóibín, internationally acclaimed Irish author and current Laureate for Irish Fiction has released a new book ‘Long Island’, and will be in conversation with Mary Conway, Waterford City and County Librarian at Dungarvan Library at 7pm on Thursday, June 13th.

‘Long Island’ is the much-anticipated sequel to Tóibín’s 2009 novel ‘Brooklyn’ which was also adapted into a film in 2015.  In ‘Long Island’ we see Eilis and Tony living a happy, secure life in Long Island twenty years on from the ending of ‘Brooklyn’. When a stranger with an Irish accent knocks on Eilis’s door however, she turns towards Ireland once again and the life she left behind.  In his follow on to the best-selling and prizewinning novel ‘Brooklyn’ we see Tóibín at his best, a master of deeply moving scenes full of quiet restraint.

The author of eleven novels, including ‘The Magician’, ‘The Master’, ‘Nora Webster’ and ‘Brooklyn’, Colm Tóibín has been shortlisted for the Booker Prize three times, was winner of the International Dublin Literary award for ‘The Master’ and has won both the Costa Novel award and the Impac Award.  He has published two collections of stories and many works of non-fiction.  Tóibín is the Irene and Sidney B. Silverman Professor of the Humanities at Columbia University and been named as the Laureate for Irish Fiction for 2022-2024 by the Arts Council of Ireland.

Waterford City and County Librarian, Mary Conway is looking forward to the evening stating, “I am delighted to welcome Colm Tóibín to Waterford and to Dungarvan Library, and look forward to discussing his wonderful writing with him. It is sure to be an insightful conversation.”

Tóibín will also discuss his inspirations including Henry James, his creative processes and the machinations of writing. As the current Laureate for Irish Fiction Tóibín will also speak about Irish writers and the new generation of writers representing Ireland.

While this event is free, booking is required by calling Dungarvan Library on 058-21141.

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By Waterford City & County Council

Local Circular Economy Grant 2024 now open

National Waste Management Plan
Are you part of a community group, school, or other local organisation in County Waterford that’s passionate about sustainability?

If you’re eager to make a tangible impact on environmental sustainability, apply for the Circular Economy Grant 2024, run by Waterford City and County Council.

Previously known as the Waste Prevention Grant, this initiative is designed to encourage innovative local projects that embody principles of the circular economy—longevity, renewability, and minimal waste. This approach isn’t just about waste reduction; it’s about transforming our relationship with the resources we use daily.  This year, Waterford City & County Council is focusing on projects that promote reusing, repairing, and changing the way we think about and consume resources. We are looking for initiatives that can demonstrate tangible ways to extend the life of products through skills such as repair and maintenance, reducing the community’s environmental footprint.

Why Apply?
The grant, part of the council’s Waste Prevention Programme under the ‘National Waste Management Plan for a Circular Economy 2024 – 2030‘, supports efforts that help shift local mindsets and behaviours towards sustainable practices. Successful projects might include repair workshops, swap events, or the creation of a community sharing library for tools and equipment—anything that encourages a shift from ‘single-use’ to ‘sustainable reuse’.
In previous years, funded projects have ranged from beach toy libraries to food waste reduction workshops and composting systems. These initiatives not only conserve resources but also cultivate a sense of community and shared responsibility.

How to Apply?
Applications are open to community groups, youth groups, schools, and other community development organisations based in County Waterford. This grant is a chance to launch or expand projects that make a difference.
The application process is detailed below:
  1. Applications must be submitted online through the official form available at www.waterfordcouncil.ie.
  2. A detailed list of project expenditures must be included, with a clear focus on waste prevention activities.
  3. The grant covers up to 50% of approved costs initially, with the balance provided upon satisfactory project completion and reporting.
Key Dates and Criteria
Be sure to submit your application by 5pm on the 28th of June 2024. Projects will be evaluated based on their potential impact on waste prevention and their ability to serve as a replicable model of best practices in sustainability.
Apply now for the Circular Economy Grant 2024 and be at the forefront of environmental innovation in County Waterford.

By Waterford City & County Council

RSA Launches High-Profile E-Scooter Campaign

New laws for E-scooters

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is today launching a high-profile campaign aimed at educating the public about the use of e-scooters.

 The campaign will commence on Monday, 20 May 2024, the day when new regulations for e-scooters will come into effect.  The tv-led campaign is supported by video-on-demand, radio, digital audio, social media and out-of-home advertising.  The campaign is set in an office environment where colleagues welcome the newbie. The colleagues are dressed as various characters such as Bus, Truck, Motorbike, Car and Bicycle and the newbie E-scooter. The characters interact with each other while highlighting six of the main rules of the road that apply to e-scooter use.

The campaign focuses on communicating the main Rules of the Road relating to e-scooters and other road users sharing the roads together.

From 20 May, e-scooters can be used:

  • by people over 16.
  • on cycle and bus lanes.
  • on local, regional and national roads.

E-scooters are not permitted:

  • to be used by people under 16.
  • to carry goods or passengers.
  • to be used on footpaths, pedestrianised areas or on motorways.
  • To exceed a speed limit of 20 km/h

E-scooters must be treated with the same care as people who cycle.

In addition, where a bicycle is not permitted, e-scooters are not permitted either. Rules that cover bicycles apply to e-scooters. E-scooters are not permitted to have a seat.

Sam Waide, Chief Executive of the RSA, said: “Next week marks an important change on Irish roads. We are asking people on e-scooters and other road users to familiarise themselves with the traffic laws and regulations concerning this new vehicle type.”

“The RSA’s advertising campaign will be extensive and will support both e-scooters and other road users to understand how to share the roads safely together. It aims to remind all road users that we are all people sharing the roads together.”

An e-scooter is a vehicle with a small standing platform and no seat, for use by one person only, with two or more wheels and propelled by an electric motor. The rider can also propel the e-scooter forward by pushing off the ground.

From 20 May, e-scooters are legal to use on public roads under the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023.

Breaking the Rules of the Road, not following regulations and improper or dangerous use of an e-scooter will likely result in a fixed charge notice (fine).

Motorists sharing the road with e-scooters should follow the same guidelines as for sharing the road with people who cycle. Drivers should give at least one metre clearance when overtaking an e-scooter user in speed zones that are 50 km/h or under, and at least 1.5 metres in speed zones over 50 km/h.

A list of Frequently Asked Questions regarding e-scooters are available here.

Further information on the RSA campaign is available here E-scooters (rsa.ie)

Please see https://www.gov.ie/ for more information on e-scooter regulations.

Ends

By Waterford City & County Council

A Refreshing Start to Bike Week 2024: Dawn Cycle to Tramore

This past Saturday morning, Waterford City & County Council hosted an invigorating “Dawn Cycle” event, marking a special start to Bike Week 2024. As the sun began to peek over the horizon, approximately twenty cycling enthusiasts gathered in Waterford at the brisk hour of 6 am, setting the stage for a memorable ride to Tramore.

The event, part of a nationwide celebration to promote cycling as detailed on the Transport for Ireland’s Bike Week page, aimed to highlight the benefits of cycling, both for personal health and as a sustainable transport option. The journey from Waterford city to scenic Tramore offered participants a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility of the early morning, with quiet streets and the fresh, crisp air of the dawn creating a perfect backdrop.

Riders of all ages and abilities joined the cycle, demonstrating the inclusive spirit of Bike Week. The camaraderie among participants was palpable, with seasoned cyclists and beginners alike sharing laughs, stories, and encouragement.

Upon arrival in Tramore, cyclists were greeted with stunning views of the coastline, a rewarding sight after their early morning endeavor. The event concluded with a communal cuppa where stories were shared over cups of coffee and breakfast treats at the T-Bay surf club on the prom.

As Bike Week continues, Waterford Council hopes to see more residents choosing bicycles as their preferred mode of transport, inspired by the success of this picturesque early morning ride.

See the flyer below for more events throughout Waterford for Bike Week 2024, and consider joining the cycling revolution to better health and a cleaner environment!

By Waterford City & County Council

Local Elections Candidate Nomination Week opens Monday 13th May

Candidate Nominations

Candidate nomination papers for 7th June Local Elections, will be accepted from 9.30am on Monday 13th May 2024. The closing date for the acceptance of complete and valid nomination papers and all required supporting documentation is 12 noon on Saturday 18th May 2024.

Nomination Papers
Completed nomination papers must be delivered in person to the Returning Officer, Paul Johnston or his nominee by either yourself as the candidate or your proposer. Nominations delivered by any other means including post, email etc. are not acceptable and will be deemed invalid. This process is by appointment only.

In order to facilitate candidates and minimise delays, please contact the Corporate Services office in advance to book an appointment for a mutually convenient time. Please contact either Anne Flynn at 051-849685 or Honor Dunphy at 051-849695 in this regard.

  • Nomination Papers will not be accepted after 12 noon on Saturday May 18th 2024 under any circumstances.

Forms and guidelines for propsective candidates can be found on our Elections Hub.

By Waterford City & County Council

Mayor of Waterford City and County welcomes UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC) to Waterford

Earlier this year, Waterford was invited to join the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. The invitation followed the collaborative work between Waterford City and County Council, Kilkenny County Council, the Southern Regional Assembly, SETU and Waterford Chambers in setting out the ambition and commitment in Waterford to fostering lifelong learning opportunities for all its citizens.

On Wednesday May 8th Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Joe Conway welcomed Raúl Valdés-Cotera, Chief Programme Coordinator at the UNESCO Institute for Lifelong Learning in Hamburg, Germany and Coordinator of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities to City Hall, where they discussed partnership and collaboration between agencies under the themes of Empowering Individuals and Transforming Societies.

Welcoming Mr. Valdés-Cotera, the Mayor said, “I myself am an advocate of lifelong learning having progressed from being the one taught in the classroom to being the one doing the teaching…a combined learning journey of over 50 years.  The benefits of lifelong learning can never be overstated.  All of us representatives here today are committed to Waterford and the wider region becoming a leading Learning Region within the global network.  Working with SETU, the Southern Regional Assembly, Waterford Chambers and WWETB, our ambition is to lessen the inequities within disadvantaged areas and marginalised communities through creating lifelong learning opportunities for all.”

Michael Quinn, Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council added, “The advantages of being part of this global network are far-reaching and as we strive to become a Learning City there is further potential to bring cutting-edge technology and innovation to the SME sector through learning initiatives.”

Mr. Valdés-Cotera said, “A people-centred and learning-focus approach builds the basis of a learning society.  We are delighted that Waterford is joining a network of 356 cities across 79 countries.

“This network provides a platform for members to exchange inspiration and knowledge and demonstrate best practice on inclusive lifelong learning.  We are looking forward to working with all the stakeholders to cultivate and grow lifelong learning in the region.”

Following the reception in City Hall, Mr Valdés-Cotera met with members of Waterford Chamber of Commerce Skillnet team, followed by a visit to WCQ Place (Waterford Cultural Quarter), Waterford’s newest Community and Cultural Hub at Barker Place on O’Connell Street and concluded with a tour of SETU Department of Architecture at the Granary building.

As a member of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, Waterford can grow and develop as a recognised city of learning and build upon the strong stakeholder commitment and political support of the Learning City Initiative. The Designation of Waterford as a UNESCO Learning City is strongly supported by regional policy and advances the ambition set out in the Southern Regional Assembly’s Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy to develop Waterford City as a UNESCO Learning City, joining Limerick and Cork City as part of a network of Learning Cities and to develop the entire Southern Region as a UNESCO Learning Region.

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By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Higgins visits Local Enterprise office in Waterford

Minister of State for Employment Affairs and Retail Business, Emer Higgins T.D., visited the Waterford Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) last Thursday May 2nd.

This was the Minister’s first visit to a Local Enterprise Office. On arrival the Minister was greeted by Deputy Mayor, Declan Doocey, Head of Enterprise, Gareth Evans and Senior Enterprise Development Officer Jacqui Gaule. The Minister was then introduced to council officials and members of the LEO team as well as some of their client companies.

Minister Higgins said:

“I am delighted to visit the Waterford Local Enterprise Office and meet with the LEO teams and their clients. This is my first opportunity to visit a Local Enterprise Office as Minister for State and it is a pleasure to see the hard work that is happening on the ground and to see first hand the work the LEOs and the Department are doing to support these businesses.”

The Minister was then introduced to LEO clients who were invited in to showcase their businesses. Mark Bergin of Coffeehouse Lane explained how they sell their own artisan manufactured, ethically sourced premium hand-roasted coffee through independent retail stores, the food service sector and SuperValu. Coffeehouse Lane were the winners of a Waterford Glas Awards in 2023.  Minister Higgins then met Stephanie Wickham of ExPat Ltd., who specialise in international tax advice across multiple jurisdictions. ExPat Taxes were the overall winner of the LEO Waterford Digital Awards in 2023 and will represent Waterford at this year’s National Enterprise Awards which are taking place in the Mansion House later this month.

The Minister was introduced to silversmith Gene O’Shea who specialises in quality, handmade pure silver jewellery.  Each piece is designed and created by Gene and is hallmarked at Dublin Castle.  Minister Higgins then spoke with Tony Hayes of the Irish Handmade Glass Company. They specialise in coloured, mouth blown and hand-cut crystal and their products range from tableware to lighting and decorative ornaments to jewellery.  They also work with leading companies designing corporate awards and gifts for events.

The Minister met with Keith Molloy of Molloy’s Butchers Ardkeen, also a winner at the 2023 Waterford Glas Awards. The company deliver produce in reusable crates with no single use cardboard or plastics accepted with all packaging either 100% home compostable or infinitely recyclable. Molloy’s encourage their customers to bring their own reusable containers and offer an incentive of 25% off to encourage this practice.

Minister Higgins then spoke with Dermot Harrington and Ken O’Shea of Reso Health.  The company are developing a platform to provide precision nutrition for professionals in the workplace.  This platform will combine an onsite dispenser with an employee-controlled app to deliver a range of nutritional supplements targeted specifically to the user.

The Minister finished her visit with a short walk to Strong Roots Jewellery where she met owner Michelle Dunne, an artist and metalworker who creates bespoke jewellery. Using the Celtic Tree Calendar as her inspiration her jewellery is based on the strong roots that shape us, nature, family, friends and hobbies.

On the conclusion of her visit, Minister Higgins said:

“The hard work of the LEO office here in the Waterford can be seen in every business I have met today. It is fantastic to see that the strategy of my Department and the LEO Network has helped create an environment in which these business can thrive.”

By Waterford City & County Council

Summer Festival: Robert Boyle Summer School, Lismore

The 12th Annual Robert Boyle Summer School is taking place in Waterford City & County Council and in Lismore Heritage Centre from Thursday 09th until Sunday 12th May. Father of Chemistry’s Robert Boyle (1627-1691) contributions to Science revolutionised scientific thought, and each year we celebrate this scientific visionary with a diverse line-up of academics, historians, presenters and artists over a three day festival.

Our theme this year is Science and Art, continuing the success of our sold-out Robert Boyle Winter School in January.

This year’s line-up:

  • Antiquarian Roger Gaskell explores the scientific classic ‘Micrographia’ by Robert Hooke. This text was the original scientific bestseller, and presented drawn images of insects and flora under a microscope for the first time ever.
  • Leonardo da Vinci features prominently on the schedule. Scholar Dr Martin Landrus of University of Oxford explores the interrelationships of Science and Art in da Vincis work, whilst figurative artist Una Sealy discusses the influence of da Vinci in her anatomical works.
  • Artist Nuala Clarke joins us to delve into the commonalities between scientific and artistic methodologies.
  • Dr Fernando Corbalán, University of Zaragoza and author of the The Golden Ratio, The mathematical language of beauty illustrates the relationships between Mathematics and Art.
  • SETU lecturer Carlos Garcia Pando demonstrates how da Vinci’s work informed the invention of the 3D printer.

This year, we offer our guests a botanical art workshop with artist Gooee O Brien, followed by the ever-popular garden party to reflect and discuss in the grounds of Lismore Castle. The Summer School is made possible through a collaboration between Calmast STEM Engagement Centre South East Technological University and the Lismore Heritage Centre, with support from the Waterford City & County Council local industry partners, and Lismore Castle Estates.

BOOKING is essential, for further information, please visit https://www.robertboyle.ie

By Waterford City & County Council

Inaugural One Waterford, One People event hailed a success

The inaugural One Waterford, One People event which was held in the People’s Park on Bank Holiday Monday was hailed a great success by the organisers and participants.

The event, a celebration of diversity in Waterford, was organised by Waterford Trades Council and supported by Waterford City and County Council, and community organisations and agencies including Waterford Area Partnership, Waterford Sports Partnership and Waterford New Communities Network.

Featuring a compendium of costumes and culture and a symphony of musical entertainment, the free family-friendly event took place in the People’s Park, with the bandstand featuring as the main stage for music acts from Ukraine, Brazil, India, the Philippines, Africa and more, along with a host of Irish musicians including a céilí band and drummers from Waterford Academy of Music and Arts.

David Lane, President of the Waterford Trades Council extended his gratitude to those involved in the organisation of the event, its participants and everyone came along to soak up the atmosphere of One Waterford, One People.

“There was a brilliant array of performers from Ireland, India, the Philippines, England, Brazil, South Africa, the Igbo Community and Ukraine.  The event showcased how communities can come together and celebrate diversity, and doing so under the banner of solidarity and trade unions works very well.

“We estimate that there were in the region of 500 people at the event throughout the afternoon, enjoying the free music, dance and cultural showcases.  It’s a template that we hope to work on and repeat.  I’d also like to thank our partners Waterford City and County Council, Waterford Area Partnership, Waterford Sports Partnership and Waterford Integration Services.”

Katherine Collins, Project Manager of Waterford’s Cultural Quarter (WCQ) said, “It was a lovely addition to the Bank Holiday weekend.  The People’s Park was the perfect setting to celebrate Waterford’s rich cultural diversity.

“As a warm and welcoming place, Waterford City and County Council is pleased to support events like this that showcase Waterford as being inviting and inclusive for all.”

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Images :  DGM Photographic

By Waterford City & County Council

Notice of Playground Closure – Walton Park, Dungarvan

Walton Park

Waterford City & County Council wishes to advise the public that the playground at Walton Park, Dungarvan is closed to all users until 19th May 2024 to facilitate the installation of new equipment.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

By Waterford City & County Council

Age Friendly Waterford’s “Age Well” Expo : 7th May

Age Well Expo

Age Friendly Waterford’s “Age Well” Expo will take place in the Tower Hotel on 7th May from 1-6pm.

There will be speakers, stands, music and refreshments – below is the agenda for the day. It is being supported by Healthy Waterford, WCCC and UPMC Whitfield.

By Waterford City & County Council

Molly Keane Creative Writing Award 2024

Molly KeaneSince 1998, the Arts Office has been running this national annual Creative Writing Award to celebrate the rich literary life of the late Molly Keane.  Molly lived in Ardmore, Co. Waterford until she died in 1996. She started writing at a young age to ‘supplement her dress allowance’. Her first ten novels and four plays were published under the pseudonym M.J. Farrell. She married into the Keane family of West Waterford but sadly her husband died at the age of 36.

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

The Arts Office, Waterford City & County Council by kind permission of the Keane family is now inviting entries for a previously unpublished short story for this years’ award.

The closing date for receipt of entries is Friday 14th June 2024 at 12 noon.

There is a cash prize of €250 plus a writing course under the auspices of the Molly Keane Writers Retreat, Ardmore to the value of €300 for the winner and there is no entry fee.

Full guidelines and the online submission details are now live on the Waterford Submit platform see: https://submit.link/2CB

 

 

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