Taoiseach visits the Déise during 'impactful' weekend for region
Agnes Aylward, Chairperson and founder of the Lafacadio Hearn Japanese Gardens, and Janet Carey, Business Development and Marketing Manager, welcome Taoiseach Micheál Martin to Tramore. Photo: Noel Browne
Taoiseach Micheál Martin toured the Déise last week, visiting the Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens, Faithlegg and Lismore.
It was a visit that fell during a busy, impactful day for Waterford's educational, economic, political and cultural sectors.
At South East Technological University, President Prof. Veronica Campbell, Walton Institute Director Kevin Doolin and TD Conor McGuiness welcomed a delegation of six international Ambassadors to discuss global strategy.
At Lismore, the Taoiseach stopped by Blackwater Community School for the opening of the new school building and sports campus, alongside Ministers Mary Butler and John Cummins.
Over at Faithlegg House & Golf Resort, Waterford Chamber, in partnership with Skillnet Ireland, Waterford Chamber Skillnet and Bausch + Lomb, officially launched the 2025 cycle of the Regional Leaders Programme. Taoiseach Martin gave the keynote address at the event.
At the Japanese Gardens the Taoiseach shared a few words about the grounds, describing the site as a "living biography" of its namesake.
He said: "These gardens represent a living biography, told through plants, stone and water, of the life and work of writer Patrick Lafcadio Hearn, whose 14-year sojourn in Japan earned him the title of 'Japan's most famous Irishman'. The rich depiction of Japanese legends and lore, combined with the beauty of the landscape, make these gardens a wonderful example of Japanese culture and a fantastic amenity for locals and visitors alike."
Chairperson and founder of the Japanese Gardens, Agnes Aylward, gave the Taoiseach a warm welcome, alongside Manager Janet Carey.
At Faithlegg, the Taoiseach was at the opening for the launch of the 2025 Regional Leaders Programme.
In his keynote address, Taoiseach Martin spoke of the importance of collaboration and mentorship in shaping future leaders.
“The strength of Ireland’s future will be measured by the leaders we nurture today, leaders who understand that progress comes from collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to people.
"The Regional Leaders Programme provides a unique platform where talent is fostered, ideas are shared, and ambition is encouraged.
"Initiatives like this will ensure that the South East continues to thrive as a place of opportunity, resilience, and growth.”
Many local figures and stakeholders also attended the Waterford City Region Advantage Dinner at Faithlegg, including SETU President Prof. Veronica Campbell, MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, Port of Waterford CEO David Sinnott, Noel Frisby Jnr from Glassworks and Pat Power of Harcourt Developments.
