Vinegar Hill Battle Site Must Be Protected - Cllr. Cathal Byrne

“I am very concerned by the recent application for planning permission to Wexford County Council for a 90 bed nursing home together with 97 residential houses in Clonhasten, Enniscorthy under Planning Reference 20200700,” commented local Enniscorthy Councillor Cathal Byrne.

“The archaeology report lodged with the Council as part of the planning application by the developer confirms that the site on which the buildings are proposed to be built is located on part of the battlefield of the battle of Vinegar Hill on the 21st June 1798.”

“Over the past few months, I have sought to ensure that the legacy of the 1798 Rebellion is protected by fighting for the future of the 1798 Rebellion Center. While I accept the need for extra nursing home spaces in the town, I am not convinced that this is the correct site for them to be built on.”

“In my opinion, the legacy and ideals of 1798 are too important to the people and the town of Enniscorthy to allow for this development to proceed. The battle site needs to be protected and preserved for future generations to visit and learn of the history associated with the site,” concluded Councillor Cathal Byrne.