Media Release 09/03/2026
Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Wexford hosted its annual International Women’s Day event on Friday at the Ferrycarrig Hotel, bringing together 146 local entrepreneurs, business owners and stakeholders for a morning focused on learning, collaboration and inspiration. The event was supported by the Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council and the Chief Executive, who attended in recognition of the importance of women in enterprise within the county.
Delivered in partnership with County Wexford Chamber, the event reflected this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” emphasising how shared knowledge and community support contribute to a stronger and more resilient local business environment.
Broadcaster and entrepreneur Anna Daly acted as both MC and keynote speaker, sharing her experience of navigating a competitive media career and building her own business ventures. Her reflections on adaptability and creative thinking provided valuable context for the morning’s discussions.
Attendees also heard a series of short, insight-led presentations from LEO Wexford mentors, delivered in a concise, storytelling style aimed at sparking ideas and prompting reflection. These contributions covered some of the most relevant topics for small business development today:
- Mags Boland Murphy – Strategy
- Mary White – Innovation
- Michael O’Neill – Artificial Intelligence
- Cuty Gupta – Digitalisation
Each speaker offered practical considerations for business owners looking to strengthen operations, explore new opportunities or integrate emerging technologies.
The event also featured a dedicated craft showcase, highlighting the work of ten local female makers who displayed and sold their products:
- Design Notions – Ann Kelly | info@designnotions.com
- Kosy – Simone Wagner | kosymadebysimone@gmail.com
- Fire and Stain – Helena Hagan Duffin | info@fireandstain.ie
- Julsuluv – Annette Byrne | annette@julsuluv.ie
- Pebbles by Verna – Verna Goff | preciouspebblesbyverna@gmail.com
- Jackie Mitchell Art – Jackie Mitchell | jackie@jackiemitchell.com
- Grainne Moore Pottery – Grainne Moore | grainnemoss1@gmail.com
- Timea Jewellery – Agota Gilbride | agota.gilbride@gmail.com
- Wild Herb Elixirs – Phil Walsh | phil.walsh7@gmail.com
- PQ Glass Design – Pauline Quirke | info@pqglassdesign.ie
Representatives from Wexford County Council noted the ongoing collaboration between LEO Wexford, the County Wexford Chamber and local support organisations, highlighting how this joined‑up approach continues to benefit small businesses across the county.
LEO Wexford also referenced recent performance indicators, which show strong levels of job creation among LEO-supported clients. These results underline the continued contribution of small enterprises to local employment and economic activity.
The morning concluded with recognition of the work carried out by the LEO Wexford team, whose commitment to providing guidance, training and practical supports plays a central role in helping local businesses start, grow and compete.
International Women’s Day provided an opportunity to acknowledge the achievements of women in enterprise throughout County Wexford and to encourage ongoing engagement with the supports available through the Local Enterprise Office.
For more information on the supports available to local businesses, visit www.localenterprise.ie/wexford
