Remarks at a Civic Reception by Wexford Borough Council
Wexford, 12th May 2012
A Chathaoirligh, Councillors, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Tá an-áthas orm bheith anseo libh inniu. Táim buíoch daoibh as an gcuireadh agus as bhfáilte bhreá a chur sibh romham.
I would like to thank the Mayor of Wexford, Mr David Hynes, the Town Clerk, Mr Pat Collins, and all the members of Wexford Borough Council for their kind invitation to visit you here today.
It is really wonderful to be in one of Ireland’s most beautiful and historic harbour towns. The very name of Wexford reveals part of its history. It is derived from the Norse – Weissfiord which means inlet of the mudlets. Wexford was one of the first towns in Ireland to have been established by the Vikings and dates back to the early 900’s. Evidence of the Viking era can be seen in the narrow winding streets of the town and in its many archaeological finds.
Wexford is also known in Irish history for rebellion. In 1798, it was one of the few counties in Ireland that succeeded in rising up against British forces. While the rebels managed to gain control of most of the county for a period, their success was short-lived. Having fought heavy battles at Arklow, New Ross and Bunclody, they were eventually pushed back. The many men who fought and died for their country and county are remembered in songs and poems such as ‘Boolavogue,’ ‘The Boys of Wexford’ and ‘The Rising of the Moon.’ Though the rebellion never reached Wexford itself, it has a fine bronze memorial in the town’s Bullring depicting an image of man with a pike ready to defend his homestead.
After Wexford’s dark and turbulent period, it entered an age of expansion in the 19th century. Hundreds of ships used its port to trade with lands as far away as Africa and the United States of America. Increased trade lead to growth in industries such as whiskey distilling and the manufacturing of agricultural machinery. Wexford’s population grew and many of its important buildings were constructed such as St Peter’s College in 1819, the Mechanics Institute in 1849 and the Tate School now the Municipal Buildings in 1867.
While industry prospered in Wexford at the beginning of the 20th century, working conditions for many were extremely poor. Employers refused to acknowledge any difficulties and the people of Wexford had to endure a lock-out for over six months between 1911 and 1912. During this time, Wexford people showed great solidarity and determination in their efforts to secure the right of trade union representation and I was honoured today to attend a commemoration marking the centenary of this event.
A memorial sculpture by Peter Hodnett now stands at the Faythe demonstrating the spirit and resolve of Wexford people in support of their foundry workers over a hundred years ago.
I have also had the privilege today to participate in World MS Day with the Wexford South Branch of Multiple Sclerosis Ireland. MS Ireland operates both at local and national level and has increased awareness and understanding of the condition amongst individuals affected by MS, their families, carers and health professionals. The centre in Clonard is most impressive and as patron of MS Ireland, I was delighted to have been given the opportunity to meet with staff, users of the facility and volunteers from the community who have helped in so many ways to create a much needed and valued service.
Cultural achievements play an important role in the success story of Wexford today. The Wexford Opera Festival is known throughout the international opera community. Established by a small group of local music-lovers in 1951 and led by the late Dr Tom Walsh, it has become world-renowned for its exceptional performances and originality.
Wexford has also produced some wonderful literary talent such as John Banville, Colm Tóibín and the playwright, Billy Roche. I understand that Wexford County Council commenced an initiative in 2010 called the Ambassador programme which honours the achievement of Wexford men and women and recognizes their contribution in promoting the county on the international stage. Eoin Colfer, Colm Tóibín, Gordon D’Arcy and Kevin Doyle were selected last year and I am told that new ambassadors will be announced next month. Wexford local authority is very much involved in promoting arts in the community and I would like to commend you in particular for the Youth Arts programme which has been developed to encourage young people to participate in the creative arts. Molaim sibh as na h-éachtaí seo ar fad.
Wexford is indeed a lovely place to visit. The Quay which is popular with everyone provides a wonderful waterfront for the town. I am told that it even offers people a free WiFi facility!
You have a vibrant and diligent community here that prides itself in its history, its culture and its people. It has been a privilege to visit here on what is a very special occasion for me. Thank you most sincerely for this Civic Reception. I am very grateful Mayor, Councillors and staff of Wexford Borough Council for your kindness in hosting this event.
Go raibh míle maith agaibh.