North West Express by northwest express

March 2020 Issue 3 - Volume 21

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RTE’s George Lee, guest speaker on Climate Change at the very successful Lions National Conference (organised by Ballina Lions Club) at the Great National Hotel, Ballina, last week.

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S the country goes into virtual lockdown, a consequence of the rapid spread of Covid 19, we are all hoping (and praying!) the crisis will be short-lived. In essence the government has prioritised public health and is asking everyone to play a part in stemming the transmission of a virus that has baffled the medical world. As Minister Simon Coveney put it: “In order to pull together we are asking people to stay apart”. We are learning a little more with each passing day . . . and when you read these lines other changes may have occurred. Many events scheduled, and listed in this issue of our newspaper, may have been cancelled or postponed. The seminal moment for those trying to grapple with Coronavirus was when it was realised somebody may be infected for a number of days without showing symptoms and that, consequently, community transmission was gaining momentum. How can one know if he/she is infected? By the time they have fever and/or cough, and go to the hospital, the lung is usually 50% Fibrosis and it may be too late. North West Express learned something useful from a contact at Stanford Hospital, who, in turn,

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quoted experts from Taiwan. They provide A SIMPLE SELF-CHECK that we should do every morning in these critical times: Take a deep breath and hold it for more than 10 seconds. If you complete it successfully without coughing, without discomfort, stiffness or tightness, etc. it proves there is no Fibrosis in the lungs, indicating there is no infection. They advise to self-check every morning in an environment with clean air. In addition, Japanese doctors treating Covid-19 cases say: Ensure your mouth and throat are moist, never dry. Take a few sips of water every 15 minutes at least. Why? If the virus gets into your mouth drinking water or other liquids will wash it down your throat and into the stomach. Once there, your stomach will kill all the virus. If you don’t drink enough water more regularly, the virus can enter your windpipe and into the lungs – which is very dangerous. This advice may prove to be useful for some. In the interim let’s work together (though apart) to defeat this Coronavirus. We hope when we publish the April issue of North West Express the drastic measures taken in our country will have been worthwhile and the world will be firmly on the road to recovery.

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Northwest Express March, 2020

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Mayo Dancers help Lord of the Dance star launch 2020 Manchester Irish Festival

ayo Dancers 'The Ganley Sisters' helped Lord of the Dance star, James Keegan launch the sell out Young, Gifted and Green 25th Anniversary Show in Manchester and this years 2020 Manchester Irish Festival. The event was supported by Mayo.ie as part of its forthcoming Mayo Day promotional campaign and a number of Mayo companies donated prizes for the raffle. The Iconic St Bede's College which was built in 1876 was bathed in Emerald Green light for the launch of the 25th Anniversary of Young, Gifted and Green and the audience were invited to 'Fill their Heart with Ireland' at the sell out two hour concert. The Manchester-born Lord of the Dance star, James Keegan flew back from European tour to officially launch the 25th Anniversary sell out concert by Young, Gifted and Green at St Bede's College on Saturday 7 March. James was just 8 when he performed in the very first Young, Gifted and Green Show in Castlefield, Manchester he is currently on tour with the world famous Lord of the Dance show, but has took a day off his tour to fly back for the anniversary. Sean Nos Dancers The Ganley Sisters who are part of the award winning Mayo Manchester Tradfest flew in from the West of Ireland to perform at the concert and stage a Dance workshop on the Sunday at St Kent's Irish Club. YGG Creative Director and the Director of Mayo Manchester, Tony Hennigan commented "The audience and the performers in the show could not believe their eyes when James made a surprise appearance to officially launch the show. He brought the house down when he burst onto the stage to perform a routine from Lord of the Dance with the pupils from his Dance Academy. That moment will stay firmly etched in their in their minds and that of the audience. We had former YGG members, special guests and members of the audience fly in from all over Europe to make it to the event. It was a very special

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moment and one which I will treasure. They say that it takes a village to bring up a child, but it takes a world-wide global village to put on a YGG show. On the eve of the concert Michael Flatley sent us a special video message congratulating us on our 25th anniversary and for inspiring so many young people to do something with their Irish talents. THe Ganley Sisters were fantastic and gave the audience a real insight into the tradional forms of Brush and Barrel dancing. " James in his opening speech said "A group of us gathered in this very hall to see if we could put and Irish troupe together that would put on shows to raise money for charity. None of us thought that we would still be involved in showcasing their talents at shows like this 25 years later, it is great to see 2nd generation members of our families still involved in the show. It is wonderful to be back here where it all began and I would like to thank Tony Hennigan for inviting me. I remember our after school practices with my sister Louise who as a student at the College with me in this hall. I remember going down to places like the Manchester Arndale Centre to put on promotional roadshows for the Manchester Irish Festival and to raise funds for charity. Tony Hennigan and the other Teachers at the College soon realised that it could be something more than just a roadshow and they had a vision to turn it into a sell out show. The talent that was in St Bede's at that time was amazing and that's how it led to us staging a sell-out show at the 2,000 capacity Bridgewater Hall. This then set off a chain of events with the group appearing on numerous National TV shows and staging sell out concerts all over Manchester and in London. I just want to pay tribute to Tony Hennigan and my sister Louise Keegan and everyone who has been involved in YGG, it was such a great team effort and it gave me and other people involved in the show a big opportunity and boost to our confidence that we could make a career from it. So many of us have gone on to be involved in the media like the singer Lauren Carter who

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is here performing tonight and is already a successful TV producer and the likes of Irish Dancer, Kelly Foran who has also gone onto work for the BBC along with Irish Musician Emma Sweeney who as well as being a presenter with the BBC has just performed on Robbie Williams recent hit Christmas album. I do not think it is a coincidence that we have all been able to have successful careers in the industry, getting the opportunities to perform on National TV and Concert Halls like the Bridgewater Hall at the tender age of ten years old gave us a real taste and boost to go on and make a career from it. We owe them all for inspiring us all to do something with our talents and I would to thank everyone one for that. It is a great honour for me to official open the 25th Anniversary of Young, Gifted and Green which is aid of the Christie Cancer Care Hospital." Young, Gifted and Green was launched in 1995 and James was one of its first principal dancers. After tonight's concert it has now raised over £215,000 for different charities from its numerous sell out concerts that have been staged all over the UK from the 2,000 capacity Bridgewater Hall in Manchester to the 6,000 capacity Royal Festival Hall in London. The show features students from St Bede's College alongside a host of former members of the show and special guests. Former members appearing alongside James include; Louise Keegan and the Keegan Academy Irish Dance School, Grace Kennedy's Irish Dance School, Musicians who appeared in the concert include; Fidelma OBrien, John Gibson, Martha Wall, Billy Graham, Mairead Hussey, the Moor Irish Trad group and the Fianna Phadraig Pipe Band, the singers in the show include the shows orginal principal singer, Lauren Carter 'The Voice of a Gaelic Angel', Molly Browne, Daisy Davie, Tara Grady and the YGG Choir from St Bede's College. Mayo Dancers 'The Ganley Sisters' also flew over from the West of Ireland to appear in the show. The Manchester Irish Festival runs from the 7 to 17 March see www.manchesteririshfestival.co.uk

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The information in Northwest Express is carefully researched and believed to be accurate, but the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Statements or opinions expressed herein are not necessary those of the editor or publisher. Advertisements within the publication are not endorsed by the publisher. Neither are any claims made within the advertisements. Before consuming any products mentioned in the publication readers are advised to consult with their general practitioner or equivalent professional for opinion or advice. The publisher will not be held liable for any mistakes or omissions to any advertisements. Publishers decision is final as to what appears in our publication

Northwest Express March, 2020

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Northwest Express March, 2020

A chance to Come Home to Mayo M ayo County Council (and Mayo.ie) will be hoping Covid 19 won’t scupper its plans to provide a unique opportunity for some of the county’s diaspora to win flights home to their native county. To celebrate Mayo Day 2020, the annual celebration of its people and place, they are launching this new campaign, the #HometoMayo competition. They are asking you to send in a photo or video of your most memorable ‘Mayo moment’ to be in with a chance to win two flights ‘Home to Mayo’ . . . and it can be from anywhere in the world. The winner will be announced at the Mayo Day Flagship event in Turlough House on Saturday, 2nd May.Whether it’s a photo from 30 years ago, a photo especially taken for the competition or even an Insta video taken as you go about your day, the competition is open to all content new or old. As long as it’s completely original and conveys a special moment in time, taken of County Mayo or of Mayo people or descendants, be they anywhere around the world! For example, the video or photo could be of beautiful Mayo landscape from your kitchen window today, or you could send in a scan of a family member’s Communion day in 1987. Others might enter the competition with phone footage or images of friends and

family in Mayo jerseys standing outside Gaelic Park or in Times Square, New York. Another entry might be of your favourite pet taken from your back yard, or a moment on the street of Ballina at Other Voices 2018, a family embracing in the airport in Knock or Naples, or a family snap from the top of Croagh Patrick – the options are endless! The content is completely subjective, but it must be strongly linked to Mayo and is 100% original and owned by the entrant. The successful image or video will win two flights from anywhere around the world, be it for themselves or loved ones who live away and the flights can be booked within the next 12month period, right up to May 2021.

In order to enter the competition, we ask people to Email the image/footage to HometoMayo@Mayo.ie Upload and send Mayo.ie FB page Or to Mayo.ie Twitter Give a brief description of why it is your Mayo moment Photos and videos may be displayed on social media and as part of an exhibition at the Mayo Day flagship event in Turlough House on Mayo Day. Please visit www.mayo.ie and follow @Mayo.ie on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, also @MayoCoCo on Facebook and Twitter

Third time lucky as Mayo artist bags €28,000 Winning Streak bonus AN artist from Mayo won a cool €28,000 when he appeared on the National Lottery Winning Streak TV game show last Saturday (7th March). Chris Harper Snr from Westport, Co. Mayo won prizes totalling €28,000 after he won a Renault Zoe car, worth €25,000, on the very first game. He went on to win a further €3,000 in cash from the show. Chris lives in Westport with his wife Gaye in their home, which he describes as “halfway up Croagh Patrick”, overlooking the bay and town. Chris is originally from Bristol and he met Gaye, a Laois native, when she was working in Bristol. The couple moved back to Ireland in 1964 and opened a coffee shop in Mountrath, the midway town between Dublin and Limerick and near where Gaye is from. Chris has a chequered working career having had many pivots and changes including working for Rolls Royce, in an advertising agency and running a coffee shop among his occupations. He also established a sign making company which is now run by his son Chris Junior in Westport, now called MySign.ie. However, what is possibly

most interesting about Chris is that he is an artist who specialises in oil paintings. He has his own gallery in Kilsallagh, Westport and when it opened in 2011, Mary Kennedy travelled up and did a feature on him on the popular RTE show, Nationwide. To date Chris has painted approximately four to five hundred oil paintings and is often found on his veranda painting overlooking the picturesque setting of Westport and Croagh Patrick. Chris is retired from everything now bar his painting. He is also a father to three adult children (Nicola, Michelle and Chris Junior); grandfather to 10 grandchildren; and greatgrandfather to six great grandchildren. Many of these were in the RTE audience on Saturday evening cheering Chris on. National Lottery game shows are not new concepts in the Harper household as Gaye went on another Lottery show back in July 2008 –the Big Money Game, presented by Laura Woods, and she won a cool €39,250. Chris jokes that he will be aiming to beat Gaye’s total this weekend on the show. The Lottery luck doesn’t end there for the

Harper’s as back in 1998 both Chris and Gaye won seats on the National Lottery Concorde trip to Paris, which Marty Whelan was also on. Chris describes this third dollop of luck as an amazing boost to the whole family. He says that he will enjoy his winnings a lot more now he is retired and is looking forward to the day out with his family. Nearly 30 cent in every €1

spent on Winning Streak and all National Lottery games goes back to Good Causes in the areas of sport, youth, health, welfare, education, arts, heritage and the Irish Language. In total more than €5.6 Billion has been raised for Good Causes since the National Lottery was established 32 years ago. In 2019 alone, €250 million was raised for local Good Causes in communities across Ireland.

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Northwest Express March, 2020

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Northwest Express March, 2020

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Memorable weekend in Ballina

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51st Lions International Convention in the Great National Hotel Ballina with Stephen McAndrew, David Roache,(Secretary), Phil Nathan (past International Director UK), Bent Jesperson (International Director Lion Clubs Denmark), Bernard Black (District Governor), Mary Robinson (former President & human rights campaigner), Conall Calleary (President Ballina Lions Club), Adrian Bourke & Michael McNamara (Treasurer) . Photo: John O'Grady.

RIDAY, 6th March marked the start of an eventful weekend in Ballina, literally six days after the town had exploded into song as it hosted the iconic Other Voices, bringing thousands of music fans to town and creating a music trail in the local pubs.

51st Lions International Convention in the Great National Hotel Ballina with former president and human rights campaigner Mary Robinson, Conall Calleray, President Ballina Lions Club & David Roache. Photo: John O'Grady.

This time it was the return of the prestigious Mary Robinson Centre Human Rights Lecture Series, in the local arts centre on the Friday, closely followed on Saturday by the Lions National Convention hosted by the local Ballina Lions Club at the Great National Hotel. For the Ballina Lions Club the convention marked the culmination of 18 months of hard work by a core committee of 10, with assistance from all members of what is arguable the most active and progressive clubs in Ireland. Local Lions president Conall made no apologies for using the occasion to showcase Ballina to hundreds of delegates from all corners of Ireland. Recreations events were scheduled for the visitors as part of a partners’ programme which included visits to Foxford Woollen Mills, the Jackie Clarke Collection, etc. The offering also included a novel Taste of Ballina experience for the delegates who were treated to the cuisine in six of the town’s top restaurants. RTE’s

Mary Robinson and her husband Nick pictured with brother Adrian Bourke, niece Catherine and sister in law Pamela Kearins at the Lions Internation Conference in Ballina's Great National Hotel. Picture Henry Wills

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George, guest speaker at the Saturday convention, spoke at length on the convention’s main theme, Climate Change. Visiting delegates lauded the efforts of their hosts and many expressed interest in making return visits to the banks of the Moy. The club also honoured former president Mary Robinson with a special reception before the start of the convention to mark her appointment as chairperson of the International Elders Group. Mrs. Robinson also delivered the keynote address at the official opening. Ballina also afforded a special welcome to South African human rights and climate justice activist, Kumi Naidoo, who delivered the fifth Mary Robinson Centre Lecture in a packed Ballina Arts Centre on Friday evening. During his speech, which highlighted the stark future we all face if we don’t wake up to the reality of climate change and other societal issues, he paid tribute to Mrs. Robinson as one of the very few people in the world that have dedicated their lives to battling injustice.

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Northwest Express March, 2020

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Glanbia Ireland partner with IT Sligo online learning to train 2000 employees

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Pictured at the launch of the Operational Excellence (OpEx) programme from left to right: Xavier Velay, Head of Department of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering - IT Sligo , Michael Phelan, Head of Operations & Supply Chain Excellence at Glanbia Ireland, Brian Coll, Lecturer in Quality & Lean Six Sigma - IT Sligo and Liam Connors, Glanbia GPS Specialist

T Sligo’s online learning platform is being utilised by some of the country’s largest companies with great success. One of the latest companies to come on board is agri-food and nutrition business, Glanbia Ireland, who are working with IT Sligo to roll out their organisation-wide Operational Excellence (OpEx) programme. So far over 500 Glanbia Ireland employees have completed the IT Sligo online course in Lean Six Sigma quality. IT Sligo deliver Ireland's first and only free Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on Lean Sigma Quality. This seven-week online course has now been delivered to over 7,500 participants from Irish organisations. The course consists of weekly online lectures, discussion boards, videos and quizzes which provides an introduction to the Lean and Six Sigma quality tools. At the end of each week, a quiz is completed and those successfully passing the course earn a Certificate of Completion from IT Sligo. Michael Phelan, Glanbia Ireland’s Head of Operations and Supply Chain Excellence, said: “We selected IT Sligo as they are the

leading provider of accredited online learning programmes in Ireland. Their online learning systems allow our employees to access the course material anytime, anywhere. It provides us with the unique ability to train over 2,000 of our employees in a cost effective way across 10 sites working on multiple shifts. This online course is a key part of the progression path for Glanbia employees who wish to continue to upskill and earn additional qualifications such as Lean Six Sigma Yellow and Green Belt certification.” Lean Six Sigma and Operational Excellence (OpEx) have been embraced by leading global companies in the manufacturing and service industries. They have become the foremost process improvement approach for organisations that wish to attain world class performance in quality and customer satisfaction. The tools and techniques are now expanding to the healthcare and government sectors where benefits have been achieved in productivity, efficiency and elimination of ‘waste’ – a term used in Lean Sigma quality which refers to anything

that does not add value to the product or service. Dr. Xavier Velay, IT Sligo’s Head of the Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, said: “We are delighted to work closely with Glanbia Ireland on this blended learning initiative. They have adopted a very innovative approach to training their employees in Operational Excellence by combining IT Sligo online learning along with their own in-house coaching and customised workshops which are directly relevant to their employees day to day work. “This allows Glanbia Ireland to provide their workforce with a unique learning experience combining experiential, social and formal learning with the academic rigour of a third level course.” The weekly IT Sligo online lectures are supplemented by in-house tutorials and workshops by the Glanbia OpEx team to assist their employees with that week's lecture topic. Participants also undertake a work-based OpEx project which typically results in a minimum saving of €10,000 per project to the organisation.

Visitor Restrictions announced by Nursing Homes Ireland For the protection of nursing home residents, NHI has confirmed that visiting restrictions are now in place in nursing homes nationwide. No non-essential visiting, children or groups will be allowed. All visitors are asked to contact prior to attending. Visitors should only seek to attend in urgent circumstances and the management reserve the right to impose full restrictions where necessary.

We urge prospective visitors to nursing homes to be cognisant and understanding of the measure that is required in the interest of resident and staff safety. Older people and people in nursing homes with pre-existing medical conditions are particularly vulnerable if they contact the virus. The virus presents an unprecedented situation for our nursing homes and the care provided within them. Nursing homes are imposing the

visitor restrictions in the best interests of residents and staff. We thank people for their understanding and patience during this period of unprecedent challenges presented by Covid19. Nursing Homes Ireland is monitoring the evolving situation on an ongoing basis and is in continuous contact with the Department of Health, National Public Health Emergency Team (NPHET), HSE and all relevant health authorities.

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Northwest Express March, 2020

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Innovative Training provider to hold open day in Mayo

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ome 1,223 people with disabilities have been supported into employment in the last three years by Ireland’s largest non-governmental education and training organisationNational Learning Network. Since 2017, a further 2,500 people with disabilities, mental health difficulty or challenging life circumstances have been supported to move onto further training education opportunities. A total of 800 of whom have progressed onto higher level training and education courses including third level colleges and

universities. Those who were supported to find employment through National Learning Network (NLN), and who may otherwise have remained reliant on social welfare payments, have contributed in the region of €750,000 to the State as a result of securing employment. It also means that the Exchequer has saved in the region of €1million annually in reduced expenditure on social welfare benefits. The figures were released today as NLN launched its inaugural National Open Day, which will be held on April

1st at 11am and will see more than 30 centres across the country open their doors to the public. NLN, which is the education and training division of Rehab Groupprovides a range of flexible training courses for people with extra support needs. It is the largest private provider of personalised education, training and employment services in Ireland. NLN Mayo, based in Breaffy Road, Castlebar, is taking part in the nationwide NLN Open Day on Wednesday 1st April. All are welcome to drop in.

Kaiser Chiefs Latest Act Announced for Wild Roots The award-winning band Kaiser Chiefs are the most recent act to be added to the Wild Roots Festival bill. The indie-rock group will take to the stage on Sunday of the August weekend. The unique festival’s line-up is already bringing big music names to the North West such as James Morrison, Aslan, Damien Dempsey and DJ Jenny Greene with many more worldrenowned artists to be announced over the coming months. In addition to these fantastic acts, the music, performing arts and adventure festival will feature artists and performers from a variety of different genres over the three days. Some names revealed include the ever-insightful Limerick man Blindboy with The BlindBoy Podcast. Owen Colgan from The Hardy Bucks as well as comedian and creator of The Savage Eye David McSavage will be on the comedy stage. And following their award-winning sell-out show, Aerial Antics are set to dazzle with their eye-popping performance in the circus tent. Festivalgoers can take five from the party and head out into nature with a host of water-based activities on offer such as kayaking, sailing and standup paddleboarding. Or those looking for the ultimate memory maker can join one of the exclusive Boat Parties with a surprise DJ and bar onboard. It’s also a familyfriendly festival, so there are areas and activities specially designed for children.

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Northwest Express March, 2020

news

“Sixty Photographs for Simon” by Vincent Butler • Respite & Convalescene Care Services • Short Term, Long Term and Day Care Services • All Rooms Private / Semi-Private • Nursing Home Support Grant (Fair Deal) Available • 24 Hour Professional Nursing Care • Daily GP Visits and In-House Physio • All Services available, Hairdressing etc • Daily activities including Weekly Music Sessions • All spiritual needs attended to

N Daly, M Mc Keon, M O Dowd all NW Simon, Lindi & Vincent Butler(Author) & Gerry Boyce

incent Butler is an expedition leader, archaeologist and photographer based in Newbridge, Co Kildare. His book, “Sixty Photographs for Simon”, is a collection of some of the

stunning images he has taken during his expeditions around the globe over the past two decades, across the Arctic, Scandinavia, Europe, Africa, Asia, South America and the Antarctic.

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Each image is accompanied by the story behind it: Franklin Expedition Graves in the Canadian Arctic; A Gentoo Penguin with her chicks on the Antarctic Peninsula; Traditional Andean Cottage, Peru and Saharan Sand Dunes, Morocco. All proceeds from the sale of the book in hardback & full colour, with 76 pages priced at €20 will go to the Simon Community, to help with their work in preventing and resolving homelessness. Available in bookshops countrywide and on line @www. irishacademicpress.ie/product/sixty-photographs-for-simon/ or order directly from Vincent, vincentbutler5@gmail.com, by buying this book you are making a difference to someone’s life. Vincent donated €8,000 to North West Simon Community to support their work locally. In 2019 the local homeless charity supported 401 individuals in Sligo, Leitrim & Donegal. Through our Outreach Work North West Simon Community aim to deliver sustainable long-term benefits that make a difference to people's lives and positively impact on the communities they serve. The charity supports those in most need in our local area, those facing eviction, those applying for local authority housing, those completing HAP housing application forms, assisting individuals with budgeting, advice and information and advocating on their behalf. North West Simon Community also liaise with other services and work on a one to one with struggling individuals and families for as long as it takes to get them back on their feet. The demand from families needing assistance in getting out of homelessness has increased and North West Simon Community work with each case in a holistic way, these aren’t necessarily people on the street, they are people struggling in their own homes, facing eviction or families who can’t find suitable accommodation. The charity holds a clinic at the Tubbercurry Family Resource Centre every Thursday from 10 to 1. For more information on Vincent’s book contact: Vincent Butler on 0872330966 / 045-431342 or e mail Vincent at vincentbutler5@gmail.com

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Northwest Express March, 2020

1800 480 888 “I was fortunate to be passing a chemist shop in my home town and decided to make an appointment with the audiologist. I had a test with another provider about six months prior who recommended hearing aids costing €4,200 as it turned would not have benefited me in any way. I was keen to have a second opinion as to the cause of severe hearing loss on one side and wanted to be sure it wasn’t just age related - I’m in my 60’s. Mrs. Ann Marie Kelly’s knowledge and expertise identified a possible serious medical condition and strongly suggested referral to ENT specialist, who in turn referred me to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where I’m having on-going care. I was very impressed with Mrs. Kelly calm patient manner and her ability to explain everything without being alarmist. Definitely shows an interest and dedication in her work not seen everyday” - AC, Mayo

Clinics also available at: Castlerea at Maloney and Keady Opticians, and in Roscommon at Hynes pharmacy.

Northwest Express March, 2020

news

Irish Water reveals the story behind the challenges facing public water infrastructure during Engineers Week

St Pats Boys Group – Fifth class boys from St Pat’s Boys’ NS, Castlebar at a screening of the Story of Water during Engineers Week.

rish Water staff in the North West region took part in a series of events to promote engineering during Engineers Week which took place from February 29 to March 6 2020. Engineers Week is co-ordinated by Engineers Ireland to encourage students, their teachers and parents to explore the world of engineering and possibly consider a career in one of the varied engineering disciplines. Irish Water employs over 800 staff across the country in a variety of disciplines including engineering, environment, science, health and safety, HR, finance, legal, planning and communications with more than 90 staff working out of the regional headquarters in Castlebar. Research commissioned by Irish Water and conducted by B&A indicates that 44 per cent of the Irish public admit they ‘know nothing or not very much’ about the work carried out by Irish Water and almost 80 per cent of those surveyed say that they are interested in hearing about water services and ongoing and future plans. In response to this, Irish Water revealed the full story behind the challenges facing the public water and wastewater network during Engineers Week by showing a new documentary, The Story of Water, to Outdoor Education students in GMIT Castlebar on Monday. A second event in Mayo Movie World in Wednesday saw over 90 primary school children from St Patrick’s Boys NS, Park NS and Errew NS attend a screening of the documentary followed by a second event which was attended by members of Castlebar, Belcarra and Belmullet Tidy Towns, Castlebar Chamber of Commerce and Castlebar Mens Shed. The documentary forms part of what will be an on-going public information programme to help people understand the role that water plays in our daily lives, its value and complex lifecycle, and the process of getting water and

wastewater through the public network. It includes insights on the increasing impact of climate change; why in a country like Ireland water conservation is becoming increasingly critical; how rain becomes drinking water and the damage that is caused when people flush inappropriate items down the toilet; and the work Irish Water is doing to protect the environment, fix the network and support economic development. The Story of Water is a key output of Irish Water’s ongoing programme of public education and awareness, which includes water conservation awareness

campaigns, leakage awareness campaigns, a partnership with Clean Coasts on Think Before You Flush and sponsorship of the water theme of the An Taisce Green-Schools programme. Commenting, Anthony Skeffington, Irish Water’s Asset Operations Manager said: “We are delighted to be supporting Engineers Week 2020. It is a wonderful initiative to highlight the key role engineers play in our world and to encourage young people to consider exciting careers in engineering and related fields. “The public are telling us that they want to understand more about their water and where it comes from and they have told us that they want us to do a better job of communicating with them. Consumers hear from us when we are managing outages and incidents affecting their water supply and when we have issues with sewage blockages or overflows, but we have never shared the wider story about public water and wastewater services in Ireland, the size and scale of the challenge and the technical expertise required across the industry, including our local authority partners, to deliver clean, safe drinking water for a modern growing economy. There is massive investment going into water and wastewater infrastructure. It will take time to resolve the challenges and we are making progress.” The Story of Water features international and local contributors including experts from the water industry, engineers, environmental scientists, ecologists, regular water users, sports people, local authority staff and Irish Water employees and Irish Water’s regulators. The Story of Water is available to view at https://www.water.ie/storyofwater/

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Orders taken for hanging baskets and window boxes. Large selection of summer bedding plants from mid April. Perennial plants, trees and shrubs for your garden. Also available fruit trees & fruit bushes.

Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 086-8235287 • Open 7 Days www.thegardens.ie • gerard@thegardens.ie

V.K. AGRI RECYCLING Agents of I.F.F.P.G.

Recycling of farm plastics and general farm waste. Check out www.vkagrirecycling.ie for details of your nearest bring centres

Efficient and low cost service throughout Connacht Our yard is open all year round. 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday 9am - 1pm on Saturday. Cloonalaghan, Carrowmore Lacken Ballina, Co. Mayo

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GMIT Panel – Panellists Siobhan Sheil, Des Joyce, and Charlie Coakley, Irish Water at a screening of the Story of Water in GMIT during Engineers Week.

CALL / TEXT 'LOVE DAKINIBELLE' (086) 605 3298 Open 9am to 8pm (Last Appointment 6.30pm) Boyle, Co. Roscommon & Dublin Lovedakinibelle.net • Facebook: Love Dakinibelle lovedakinibelle@yahoo.com

Northwest Express March, 2020

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Northwest Express March, 2020

Come back 1,200 years and join the Viking Ship & Cruise upriver into Majestic Lough Ree

The Viking Ships have been sailing around our coasts since 795. The Lough Ree Cruise normally goes upstream to the Hodson Bay and returns. Why don't you board the Viking Ship which departs from the Quay at Athlone Castle daily to Lough Ree the 'Lake of the Kings'. Season normally runs from Easter to October

• Bar & Snack Shop on board • Complimentary Tea & Coffee • Free WiFi • Hens, Stags, Parties & Other Groups welcome with BYO and FREE Bottle of Bubby for all Party Groups • Group Rates on Request (30 Pax Minimum) • Bring your own Smartphone and play your own music on the ship's PA system. Apart from Athlone Town the Viking Ship can pick up or drop off at the Hodson Bay Hotel; Glasson Golf & Country Club; Wineport Lodge & Restaurant; Lough Ree Inn, Coosan Point; Killinure Chalets (BBQ & Restaurant) and Lough Ree Yacht Club (BBQ)

7 St.Mary's Place, Athlone, Co.Westmeath • Tel: 086-2621136 Email: vikingmike@vikingtoursireland.ie • www.vikingtoursireland.ie

Northwest Express March, 2020

Very attractive wedding packages for €50pp

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Great National Hotel Ballina can look after you for an Intimate Outside Garden Ceremony or an Indoor Wedding Ceremony. We have multiple options available to suit all tastes, budgets and requirements.

Great National Hotel Ballina, N26 Dublin Road, Ballina, Co. Mayo t: 096-23600 • w. hotelballina.ie Contact Denise Munnelly on 096-23612 or email denise.munnelly@hotelballina.ie

Northwest Express March, 2020

Wedding bands available in 9ct, 18ct, platinum and diamond

Very happy with our choice of Wedding Rings JACK DYLAN JEWELLERS

Specialist in handmade fitted wedding bands (gold & platinum) SHOP STREET, WESTPORT • TEL/FAX: 098-28666/29388 SIVERBRIDGE SHOPPING CENTRE, CLAREMORRIS • TEL: 094-9377950

Northwest Express March, 2020

TEMPLE

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“Tried and trusted for over 50 years, the Breed to improve all Breeds” • All bulls are Genotyped, Myostatin tested & Pre-sale inspected • All bulls are fertility tested & fertility insured • 30 bags of Greenvale Animal Feeds given to the purchasers of the three highest priced bulls at each these Sales • Deferred payment scheme option in place, only pay one third of the price of the bull on the day of sale, please contact the Office prior to Sale to avail of this.

Catalogues available at www.charolais.ie

Irish Charolais Cattle Society, Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, Dublin 12. Tel: 014198050 E-mail: info@charolais.ie Website: www.charolais.ie Follow us on Facebook: Irish Charolais Cattle Society and on Twitter: @irishcharolais

focus on farming

Northwest Express March, 2020

Choosing livestock for your smallholding familiarity with them and ask questions of the vendor. Most breeders are enthusiastic about their animals and it’s not in their interest to sell stock to someone who is unsuited to keeping them, so they may want to question you in turn!

What livestock should you choose for your smallholding? Alan Beat has many years experience with animals. Here is his advice New entrants to smallholding often ask ‘which breed of hens/ducks/sheep/pigs/cattle should we buy?’ Unfortunately, there is no simple answer. It depends on many different factors, not least of which is personal preference. However, I suggest that some commonsense principles can be applied to all types of livestock: • Buy healthy stock from a reliable small-scale source; • Keep them as naturally as possible; • Rotate them regularly to fresh ground; • Avoid overstocking; • Feed and house them properly; • Learn their normal behaviour through regular observation. Do these simple things and you should have very few problems. This article examines the first of these principles in more detail. Preparation Please, please don’t even think about buying your first livestock until you have made adequate preparations. Ensure that field boundaries are stockproof; that sufficient grazing or fodder is available; that appropriate housing and handling facilities are in place and that you have a fair grasp of how to look after them. Don’t fall into the trap of buying on impulse at a show or sale and think that you can rig something up with baler twine and old pallets ‘just for the time being’ when you get home. Such temporary arrangements are never satisfactory and risk becoming rather more permanent than intended! It’s far better to plan and prepare in advance. Personal preference There are many different reasons

for keeping livestock, but perhaps the most important is that you take pleasure in doing so. You’ll be spending a part of every single day in their company, and if that becomes a chore rather than a pleasure, you are not going to succeed with them - it’s as simple as that. So try to acquire some hands-on experience to inform your choice. Consider enrolling for a short training course covering the livestock that interest you, or offers a general overview to help you focus.Visit established smallholders to learn from their experience, and offer to help with routine tasks that enable contact with the type of stock that interest you. Handling large livestock can be daunting and may not suit you personally. Keeping geese may seem attractive, but will you cope with an aggressive gander? Milking goats may appeal, but have you ever tried - and can you stand the smell of a billy? It’s much better to explore such things before you buy, rather than afterwards. A good route to practical experience is through WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms), which enables you to work on smallholdings and farms in exchange for board and lodging; visit www.wwoof.org Another option is to initially let out your grazing to a local smallholder or farmer with the type of stock that interests you. Useful knowledge and confidence is acquired through regular observation and from conversation with their owner. If you permit them to lamb, calve or kid in your outbuildings, you’ll experience normal and problem birthing as well. This is how Rosie and I learned about sheep management before starting our own flock. Spend time on the source farm of your potential livestock to gain

Pedigree Beginners are often advised to buy quality pedigree stock from a reputable prize-winning breeder. Such breeders play a vital role in maintaining and developing the wide range of livestock breeds that we enjoy today. The rare breeds, in particular, are often suited to a smallholding life and are especially deserving of our support. However, I strongly suggest that pedigree livestock are not the ideal first purchase for the raw novice.Pedigree strains have been selectively bred over many generations for certain characteristics. The promotion of specific attributes usually comes at the expense of others, and impacts on general qualities such as hardiness, prolificacy and longevity. As breeds diverge further from the natural form, there is an associated increase in dependence on human care and intervention to maintain health and well-being. To give a simple example, primitive sheep shed their fleece naturally each spring, whereas the more developed breeds require shearing. To establish the reputation of his or her pedigree stock, the breeder needs to show them and to win prizes; but showing promotes physique and

visual appeal over utility attributes, so that prize-winning stock may lack the practical characteristics that most interest the smallholder. To win consistently around the shows against stiff competition requires considerable effort and commitment alongside expert stockmanship. All this indicates that trying to keep and breed pedigree stock is not for the fainthearted; nor, I suggest, is it for the novice. Instead of starting at the top end of the scale, I think the novice is better advised to first gain practical experience with

crossbred or commercial stock that are cheaper, hardier and more widely available. When two pure breeds are crossed, the resulting progeny grow faster to a larger ultimate size than either parent; they are also usually healthier, hardier and more prolific breeders. These characteristics are collectively known as ‘hybrid vigour’. Commercial farming takes advantage of this in various ways, for example, using crossbred ewes to combine the prolificacy of one breed with the heavier lamb carcase of another. Continues on Page 22

Northwest Express March, 2020

focus on farming

Northwest Express March, 2020

contrast, weaners from a wellmanaged smallholding, are normally docile and humanfriendly right from the start, making their handling and management so much easier. So, enquire locally for smallholdings with livestock for sale. Check advertisements in local agricultural merchants and newspapers, and national magazines like CS. I recommend visiting the source farm or smallholding before making the decision to purchase. Never mind if you are a novice common sense is your guide. Ask to see the breeding stock as well as their offspring and look at the conditions in which they are kept. Animals that are healthy and thriving will be clean, brighteyed, alert, active and inquisitive, with a shine to their coat - though if pigs have full bellies, they may be contentedly sleeping! Look for a good level of rapport between the vendor and his livestock. Ask plenty of questions; a good breeder will be happy to answer. If not, look elsewhere.

Commercial strains often arise, not from pedigree stock, but from animals with the general characteristics of a breed. Such livestock may be far removed from any traceable pedigree, but, nevertheless, exhibit the practical attributes of the breed that smallholders value. Both crossbred and commercial stock will exhibit a wider variance than pedigree animals, but uniformity may not necessarily be desirable for the smallholder, in fact, diversity may be a distinct advantage. Both these types of livestock are easier to source and cheaper to buy than pedigree stock. The progression to pedigree stock, if that is the longterm aim, can follow as experience grows. SOURCING STOCK An important consideration to the smallholder is docility. For example, sheep from the uplands may be as wild as the hills they graze, unused to confinement by fencing and unworkable except with a well-trained dog. Most commercial sheep are also worked with dogs and hence fear humans by association. However, I suggest that a sheep flock worked without dogs, but instead trained to trust humans and follow a food bucket, is far easier for a novice to manage; so buying your starter flock of tame, bucket-trained sheep from a small scale breeder provides a sensible foundation on which to build. This principle applies across the spectrum; all livestock that are handled regularly, and are relaxed in close human company, are quieter and more easily managed. To give an extreme example, I once bought some weaners (young pigs) from a semi-feral herd that roamed

a large acreage without any close human contact. The owner rigged up a temporary catching pen of wire mesh panels into which the piglets were lured by food and then trapped. When he approached the pen, the pigs went berserk and ricocheted around at high speed while

attempting to jump straight through the mesh sides - they were terrified. Somehow, we manhandled five squirming piglets into my trailer, although one jumped out again over our shoulders and sprinted away, never to be seen again! Back at our smallholding, all I glimpsed of these pigs for the first fortnight was their

backsides as they ran to hide in their house whenever approached. With patience and a regular feeding routine, they did eventually learn to tolerate my presence, but never allowed themselves to be touched and so remained difficult to move or handle. Those pigs were completely unsuitable for a novice to buy. In

Finally, beware of buying at a commercial market. It is so easy to make a bad mistake when you lack experience and, obviously, you can’t inspect the source farm either. If you really must follow that route, take along someone knowledgeable to advise you, and learn from them. Writers Alan Beat and his wife Rosie have run a smallholding of 16 acres for more than 20 years.

Northwest Express March, 2020

MULTIPURPOSE GARDEN SHEDS & GARAGES Sheds delivered & Erected Nationwide

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Northwest Express March, 2020

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Northwest Express March, 2020

Connacht Gold launches new Homeland Promotion Aurivo has launched a new token collect promotion with its Connacht Gold milk and Homeland Stores to reward loyal customers with €10 off in Homeland retail stores and online at Homeland.ie. To claim your €10 money off voucher for Homeland, simply collect 30 tokens from selected Connacht Gold milk products. In its Homeland Plus store in Westport, Co. Mayo, Aurivo held a live radio broadcast with MidWest radio on 6th March to launch the promotion. This on pack promotion, which runs for a limited time, allows customers to redeem their money off voucher throughout the network of 34 Homeland stores located across the North West region or by shopping online when you spend €50 or more. Under the Homeland brand, there are 21 Homeland Agri stores, 11 Homeland and 2 Homeland Plus stores with 12 award-winning garden centres providing a full range of products to suit all customers’ needs. Stores cater for the agri, garden, fuel, hardware, pet and homewares customer. Commenting on the launch, Caroline Millar, Brand Development and Marketing Executive said, “Based in the heart of the community, our 34 Homeland stores offer friendly, customer service-based expertise and a wide range of products. We are delighted to partner with our Aurivo colleagues at Connacht Gold in offering value and rewarding continued brand loyalty as part of this promotion. Vouchers can be redeemed on all ranges carried by Homeland both in-store and through our online store at www.homeland.ie which has recently turned 1 year old!”. Speaking at the launch of the new promo-

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tion, Insights and Marketing Manager for Aurivo Consumer Foods Niamh Jinks said “We are delighted to be able to bring this offer to our loyal Connacht Gold & Homeland customers, which perfectly aligns our consumer foods and retail brands. We have offered token collect promotions on pack now for many years which have proven to be extremely popular, so we are thrilled to be launching a new promotion with our colleagues in Homeland today. Customers of both brands can enjoy the benefit by collecting the tokens from selected Connacht Gold milk and availing of a money off voucher to use in store or online “ This offer is available on Connacht Gold 1lt Fresh, Light and Skimmed Milk, 2lt Fresh, Low Fat, and Skimmed Milk and 3lt Fresh and Low Fat Milk while stocks last. For more information visit: Connachtgold.ie or www.homeland.ie

All forms of cladding & roofing in tradition standing seam and batten roll in Copper, Zinc, Aluminium Stainless steel and Lead Sheet. Specialist flashing kits for chimneys,dormers, box gutter valleys and pitched valleys for slated roofs. Design, layout and detailing services for both commercial and private projects. Welding and fabricating of Stainless Steel and aluminium.

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Northwest Express March, 2020

Order Now, Plant Now Whitethorn and Beech Hedging etc. All trees and tree plants 24 Hour, 7 Days a week Firendly Service Delivery nationwide Receipts will be given Department Registered

Northwest Express March, 2020

EGAN TRACTORS LTD New parts available for all tractor makes! Main Agents for Malone Farm Machinery Keen Finance, rates available on all new mowers and tedders for summer season. Call for details Tractor Servicing, repairs and diagnostic service available QTP Parts Stockists Parts available for all makes and models

Independent specialists for John Deere Tractors

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Northwest Express March, 2020

FULL RANGE OF TRAILERS & BALE HANDLING EQUIPMENT

Your Local Dealers: Mulchrone Bros, Westport (www.mulchronebros.com) and Regan Tractors, Frenchpark, Roscommon (www.regan.ie)

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Northwest Express March, 2020

Together Now exhibition Jim Beard & Jon Herington Sun 15 March 2020, 8pm / €18/15conc./9 u18s The Hawk’s Well Theatre

The Importance of Being BABY SHARK SHOWEarnest (Theatre) RiversideBallina Theatre Group Arts Centre

Jim Beard and Jon Herington will present an evening of eclectic instrumental music performed on piano and guitar. The two veterans of the acclaimed Steely Dan rhythm section have collaborated on many projects through the years in addition to each other's individual albums, including the jazz supergroup Chroma and releases by Bill Evans, Michael Brecker, Randy Brecker, and more. In addition to their longstanding contributions to Steely Dan, Jim brings his deep experience with a long list of the world's best modern music-makers, including Wayne Shorter, Pat Metheny, John McLaughlin, John Scofield, and Mike Stern, and Jon brings the experience of his many years as a supporting guitarist for Boz Scaggs, Madeleine Peyroux, Donald Fagen, Bette Midler, the late Phoebe Snow, and others. The duo will perform a collection of music that includes jazz standards, pop classics, and selected tunes from their own releases. Listeners can expect the unexpected and will be treated to fresh approaches to songs by luminaries such as Weather Report, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Steely Dan.

Of Mice and Men

Mon 16 March 2020, 8pm €15/12conc. The Hawk’s Well Theatre Friday, 14th April, 3 p.m. Dive deep down under the sea in this all new mystical, magical adventure of Baby Shark & The Little Mermaid! Baby Shark is feeling adventurous and wonders what life is like away from his family, but as he wanders deeper into the ocean, things don't go exactly as planned. On his travels he meets Eugene the country music singing crab, two swashbuckling, troublesome pirates Calypso & Caspian, a very funny but cunning Owl & the Pussycat, as well as Jewel the beautiful, enchanted unicorn - all who either try to help him or dare to lead him astray! Can Baby Shark find his way back to his family before he swims too far? Only you and The Little Mermaid can help him! Packed with singalong songs, nursery rhymes and lots of audience interaction, this brand new colourful tale from Jolly Promotions promises to be lots of fun for little ones and their adults (over 2 billion views on YouTube. Tickets: €12. Early booking advised.

Based on the classic novella written by John Steinbeck, Of Mice and Mentells the tale of two great friends and their struggle to live the American dream. George and Lennie have been travelling together from ranch to ranch for years, working hard to make ends meet and save enough for a place of their own. The two are polar opposites: George is intelligent, quick and small, while Lennie is slow-minded, childlike, and giant. Though they are different, they care deeply about each other. They have been dreaming for years to save enough for a little land of their own, and when they are both hired to a new job they believe that they may finally achieve their goal.

Take Off Your Cornflakes Thurs 26 March 2020, 8pm / €16 The Hawk’s Well Theatre Tom and Trish have just celebrated their silver wedding anniversary. But what happens when Tom wakes up with a strange woman beside him and she tells him she’s his wife? And what does Trish do when she realises the person she loves is losing his mind? Inspired by Rose’s Dad, Jack, who had Alzheimer’s but couldn’t remember he had cancer, Take Off Your Cornflakes is a tender, funny, heart-warming portrait of marriage with the best ‘Dad Jokes’ you’ve ever heard.

END OF SEASON

UP TO

50% OFF

Northwest Express March, 2020

Ariel Motors

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w it h t h t is Ad ve rt

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Fast and it's efficient service We guarantee a response within 60 mins We repair approximately 90% of all vehicles attended at the roadside 24 hour call centre Phone: Letterkenny: 074-9139303 Donegal Town: 00353 074-97 40000 (Ballyshannon) Mobile: 086-2289494 Email:info@jdrecoveryservice.com Website: www.jdrecoveryservice.com

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JOHN COSGROVE MOTOR FACTORS

Tel: 096-21935 • Call out 087-2686360 Phone / Fax: 09672660 • www.coynetyres.ie

• CAR & TRACTOR PARTS • BATTERIES & FILTERS • ELECTRICAL PARTS • LIGHTS & LUBRICANTS Tubbernania, Ballintogher, Co. Sligo Tel: 071-9164244 • Mob: 086-2572139

We offer a wide range of services including pre-nct testing, car repair, recovery and sales. We also have a spray shop for all your bodywork needs. We fix all types of motoring problems ranging from mechanical problems to electrical problems. We also sell high quality used cars at affordable prices. (See www.bundoranmotors.com or call us for details.)

Northwest Express March, 2020

farmingServices FARM GATES UK LTD STOCK CLEARANCE!

MOBILE CATTLE HANDLING SYSTEM €2095 Consisting of 60’ holding pen for upto 40 cattle, with 20’ race and sliding back and front gates. Including joining pens and delivery. Last few left, can be delivered before Christmas

Nephin Tractors & Machinery Ltd

TRACTORS WANTED ALL TYPES OF TRACTORS & TRACK MACHINES WANTED

TRACTORS: Massey Ferguson, Ford, Fiat, Zetor, John Deere, Ursus etc in any condition, running or not Track Machines: Hitachi, Komatsu, CAT, Sumitomo, etc

Tel: 087-680-6540

Also available Full Sheep Race & Holding Pen for 200 Sheep €1750 (One remaming)

Fully Grant Approved & Complies with Grant Specification Ideal for use on Rented Ground & Out Farms away from House. Can be assembled & dismantled in minutes - 1 Man operation. Also available: Mobile Sheep Handling Equipment & Calf Rearing Pens

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Advertise Here! Contact 071-9154538 for details of our excellent rates

MAYO MATS For all your matting needs

• Cow Cubicle Mats • Slat Mats • Horse Mats • Parlour Mats For further information contact Tom Duffy COW COMFORT LTD Tel: 097-82057 • Fax: 097-82376 Email: cowcomfort@eircom.net

K&C MULVANEY Ltd.

Dead & Worn out Animals

DEAD AND WORN-OUT ANIMALS Contact: Tom Rogers Strokestown, Co. Roscommon SAME DAY COLLECTION SERVICE

Collection Service Daily Collection in all Areas Telephone: MULVANEYS at:

SERVICING LEITRIM & SLIGO FARMERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS

Tel: 049-4338331 or 086-8551932 / 086-3827008

Only Licensed Knackers Yard & Service in NorthWest Lowest Prices and Daily Collection Guaranteed

071-9634783 / 9633344

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED TRACTORS WANTED DRAINS AND SEWERS CLEANED ALL TYPES OF FORD TRACTORS WANTED 4600 • 5600 • 6600 • 7600 • 4610 • 5610 • 6610

ALSO NEW HOLLAND TRACTORS TS&TSA • SL/SLDP • TM 120 • TM125 • TM130 • 8160 • 8260 • 8360

PERMIT NO.CP00-09-03267-03

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY 086-8381227 / 086-1997815

ALSO MASSEY FERGUSON 130 • 165 • 185 • 188 • 168 • 240 • 265 • 250 • 275 • 290 •550 • 565 • 575 • 590 675 • 690 • 698 • 699 • 365 • 375 • 390 • 398 • 300 • 500 • 600 • 40 Series SL/SLDP Masy Ferguson Balers - 124 • 120/20 John Deere 342 / 550 Class Combines - Dominator & Lexion New Holland Combines - All Models John Deere Combines - 955 • 965 • 975 • 1075 • 1077 • 1178

Tel: 087-279-7553

Order Now, Plant Now Whitethorn and Beech Hedging etc. All trees and tree plants 24 Hour, 7 Days a week Firendly Service Delivery nationwide Receipts will be given Department Registered

Northwest Express March, 2020

farmingServices Mollahan Engineering & Maintenance

• Industrial & Residential Gates • Roller Doors • Gate Automation & Repairs • General Engineering Railings - Gates & Ornate Items designed & made to order.

Call Micheál on 086-8248402 e: michealmollohan@eircom.net

OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY - BOHOLA, SWINFORD, CO. MAYO

Call Brendan on: 087-230 7914 Mulroy & Sons Farm Machinery based in Bohola Swinford, Co. Mayo, import new and used Farm Machinery from the United Kingdom.

QUALITY SECOND!HAND HEAVY PLANT AND MACHINERY • BALLINA, CO. MAYO FOR SALE • FIAT 880 4X4 4 CYLINDER ENGINE. • FIAT 1180H 4X2 OFF FARM COND • STEYR 8140 4X4 • FRITZ CAB TO SUIT FORD 4600/6600 • BOOM TO SUIT FH130 AND EX 120 • DIPPER TO SUIT 100!1 • DISMANTLED FOR PARTS UHO 71 • CHAINS TO SUIT FH130. • BUCKETS TO SUIT 580G • BUCKET AND BUCKET RAM TO SUIT O&K RH20 • FORD 6610 AP CAB 4X2, VGC • ZETOR 8011, OFF FARM CONDITION • PICK UP HITCH TO SUIT MF165/265 ETC • PICK UP HITCH TO SUIT FORD 5000/6610

WANTED • HITACHI EX60!1 AND EX60!2/EX100! 1/EX120!1 FH130!1/FH130!2/ FH130!3 • FORD 5000/7000/5600/6600/7600 2 AND 4X4 • FORD 5610/6610/7610/6410/6810 2 AND 4X4 WITH FLOOR CHANGE • FORD 5640/6640/7740/7840 2 AND 4X4 WITH STANDARD GEARBOX • NEW HOLLAND 5640/6640/7740/7840 2 AND WITH 12X12 AND DUAL POWER. • NEW HOLLAND TS 90/100/110/115 2 AND 4X4 WITH STANDARD GEARBOX & DUAL POWER.

WANTED MASSEY FERGUSON TRACTORS MF135-165-168-175-178-185-188-265-275290-365-375-390-399-565-575-590675-690-699 WANTED IN ANY CONDITION SUITABLE FOR RESALE, BREAKING EXPORT

Products we have in stock for hire and sale

• Weed Licker • Harrows (Power, Spring, Chain, Disc and Pin) • Sprayers • Haybobs (Choice of 10) • Rotovators • Toppers • Ploughs • Spreaders • Mowers • Subsoilers • Cent Mixers • Vicon fertilliser spreader (Choice of 20) • Buckrackes • Hedgecutters (McConnells) choice of 2 All our products are reasonably priced and fully serviced www.mulroyandsonsfarmmachinery.town.ie Email : brendanmulroy1@eircom.net

Farm Sheds Fabricated & Erected

NEPIN TRACTORS & MACHINERY Colm: 087-6806540 • Castlehill, Ballina, Co. Mayo email: buyplant10@gmail.com Prompt Payment and Collection

CATTLE WANTED ALL TYPES

Cows, Bulls, Heifers & Bullocks, Beef or for further feeding. Horned, Thin or Lame Cattle, also Cattle from restricted herds considered.

Call: 086-3591357

Telephone: 0044-77-46117236 Cavallo C503 Stainless Steel Spinner Fertilizer Spreader: • 8 cwt capacity • Suitable for fertilizer or salt spreading • 9 metres spreading width • Available in painted versions at lower Price inc. VAT this model €750.00

New sheds for sales Box profile, non-drip roof. 4 full sky lights 6 foot side sheeting and all gable sheeting. 1 door opening in center of gable We can make any size of shed to suit your needs just give me a call • All ridge and galvanised gutters supplied with screws • sheds repaired and resheeted • Sliding doors made and hung • Gutters repaired and fitted all power washing done • All ground work and concrete done • All types of block work and plastering done • All types of digger work done

Painted versions: 5cwt model @ €475.00 6cwt model @ €515 • 8cwt model @ €550 Cavallo 890PXT: • 16 cwt capacity wagtail spreader c/w Stainless Steel Hopper inc. Hydraulic Control Price inc. VAT €2500.00 • 24 cwt capacity wagtail spreader c/w Stainless Steel Hopper inc. Hydraulic Control Price inc. VAT €2800.00

No job too big no job too small! • Keenest Rates

Michael O’ Connell Tractors Sales And Service Caraun, Claregalway, Co. Galway

SPECIALISING IN SPARE PARTS FOR ALL MAKES OF TRACTORS Large Stock Of All Makes Of Tractors For Sale Specialising In Deutz, Same,Lamborghini And Hurlimann Tractor Parts And Repair

We are early risers, we are tax advisors, we are tillers, planters, bankers, makers, we are financial planners, we are we weather scanners, we are accountants, farmers, foresters & forcasters. We are ifac

Service And Repair To All Makes Of Tractors Carried Out. Collection And Delivery Service Available

Find out how our team can help your business to plan for the future. Call us on 071 916 7848 or visit www.ifac.ie

Contact Numbers: 086 252 9314 • 091 799 116

ACCOUNTANCY | PLANNING | ADVICE

Northwest Express March, 2020

naturalhealth move more, live loNger:

The information provided to you on this page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice and it is important that you do not make medical decisions without first consulting your doctor or other healthcare professional.

New Study SayS PhySical activity at aNy iNteNSity caN have PoSitive imPact oN loNgevity

ove more, sit less, live longer. Every step counts, advises the British Medical Journal (BMJ). And a lot more than you may think.

Even cooking and washing dishes count. The BMJ reported that high levels of physical activity at any intensity are linked to a lower risk

of early death in middle-aged and older people. The journal emphasizes, with study results, an editorial and an opinion piece, that moving more is

Westport Foot Clinic Westport, Co. Mayo

Chiropodist: Martin Mc Nally Tel: 087 222 6260

a key to healthy aging. The BMJ found many ways to state how important this is: • “Walk more and sit less: even light exercise is linked to a lower risk of death.” • “Developing ways to limit sedentary time and increase activity at any level could considerably improve health and reduce mortality.” • “Activity prescribing (by health providers) is cheaper than many pharmaceutical interventions for cardiovascular disease and more effective at improving quality adjusted life years.” • “Walking is one promising target for intervention. It is simple, affordable (free), achievable even for older adults, and rarely contraindicated.” • “Sit less — move more and more often: all physical activity is beneficial for longevity.” Previous studies have repeatedly suggested that being sedentary for 9.5 hours or more a day, excluding sleeping time, is associated with an increased risk of death. The new results were found by Norwegian researchers who analyzed studies that assessed how physical activity and sedentary time were linked with risk of an early death.

With participants wearing tracking devices, they were able to measure accurately the total activity and intensity of activity, which was then separated into categories of light, moderate and vigorous. Cooking or washing dishes were examples of light intensity, brisk walking or mowing the lawn were considered moderate intensity, and jogging or carrying heavy loads were used as examples of vigorous intensity. The risk of death for participants was approximately five times higher for those who were inactive compared to those who were the most active, according to the researchers. “The observation that light intensity physical activity also provided substantial health benefits is important for public health as this suggests that older people and those who are not able to be physically active at higher intensities will still benefit from just moving around,” said study authors Ulf Ekelund and Thomas Yates in the BMJ. The study was conducted in the United States and Western Europe on 36,383 adults who were at least 40 years old, with an average age of 62. Participants were tracked over an average of 5.8 years.

Northwest Express March, 2020

KEEP YOUR HOME WARM & COSY!

Northwest Express March, 2020

FREE CLASSIFIEDS 2007 TOYOTA AURIS LUNA Silver, Petrol,Very Low miles 96000k, new clutch, immaculate condition. Tel: 0871386822 MOUNTAIN BIKE FOR SALE SUIT ABLE FOR LADY OR GENT Perfect condition €100 Tel: 086-1643951 FISH TANK Large, 3’ long with sand and castle €100 Tel: 086-1643951 MAN SEEKS HAP APARTMENT OR HOUSE Ballina area: Tel: 089-4679062 WARDROBE CLEAROUT! 4 Gents SUits, McGee etc. €20 each. 2 Real Leather American Zipper jackets €10 each 1 Gents 3/4 length leather effect suede kartel €15 6 gents regular shirts clubman etc. €2 each 3 Gents S/S Sports Shirts €2 each 10 Gents assorte ties €1 each Enniscrone area. Tel: 087-2250744

WERE YOU ORIGINALLY FROM GOUGANE BARRA COUNTY CORK?? Did you Play for the Parnells in the 80's?? NOEL HARRINGTON, did you work with James from Glencholmkille in London in the 90's, the last James heard you were living in ATTYMASS County Mayo. James would love to catch up. Contact me isabelgrant1213@yahoo.ie TWO PAIRS OF RED BACK SIZE 9 BRAND NEW WORKING STEEL TOE CAP BOOTS FOR SALE in box, brand new, bargain €25 each pair. Sligo area. Contact Cathal on 0874013617 MAN SEEKS COTTAGE TO RENT IN SLIGO Tel: 089-4501322 2004 TOYOTA LANDCRUISER 196,000 miles, taxed and tested until December 2019. Recently serviced, very good tyres, running perfectly. Contact Anthony on 086-1672981 NISSAN MICRA 2006, 4 Doors, NCT May 2020, Blue on colour, good condition, €1150, Boyle area. Call: 087-4139272

To place your free private classified, please email info@theexpress.ie or you can post it into us: Free Classifieds, Northwest Express, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

FOR HIRE

MAN WITH A VAN

ALL TYPES OF WORK CARRIED OUT

Call Now; 071-9143183 / 087-2972586

Mountain Rain Have Water your own Stream, River or Storage Well Lake

MICHAEL KEAVNEY

Tarcmacadam & Tarspraying Specialists

ALL TYPES OF PLANT HIRE QUALITY GRAVEL STONE

ALL AT VERY COMPETITIVE PRICES!

Pavior Machine Hire Tipper Lorry Hire 8 and 6 Wheel

Turlough, Castlebar, Co. Mayo • 094-902-3853 / 086-250-3230

In Business Over 30 Years

Phone: 086-8072249 071-9658976 Email: waterteck@eircom.net Website: www.waterteck.com

• DUMPERS • DIGGERS • LORRIES • FORKLIFTS • ALSO OLD ENGINES,GEAR BOXES, ROLLERS, BATTERIES, ALLOYS AND STEEL FOR PARTS • DUMPERS • DIGGERS • FORKLIFTS

Telephone: 087-190 3160

EXTERNAL • CAVITY WALL • SPRAY FOAM www.wmiinsulation.ie • info@wmiinsulation.ie

N5 Business Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo • Tel: 094-9038681 / Walter 087-6297979

SILVER’s DOOR STORE LTD

• DOORS • FLOORS • KITCHENS • GENERAL HARDWARE

Rathedmond Road, Finisklin, Sligo 071-919 2011 • Buy online @ www.silvershardware.com

LG GLASS & GLAZING SHS SCAFFOLDING Over 20 years in business supplying throughout Sligo & North West • Rapid Repair Service • Decorative Mirrors • Glass Shower Units • Coloured Glass • Internal Doors • Glass Stairs & Balustrade Westport Road, Castlebar • Tel: 094-9022000 • www.lg-glass.ie

PARKLAWN TREE SERVICES

Scaffolding and Acrows available to Buy or Hire from our yard Supply and Erect Service Available Tube and Fitting Scaffolding also available with plastic planks for clean room environments Our Fully Trained & Certified Professional Teams specialise in providing tailored scaffolding hire solutions, using the right equipment in the right place at the right time.

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL TREE CARE

We offer the highest quality tree services for private homes carried out by NPTC qualified tree surgeons/arborists and extensive experience in commercial services & utility arboriculture, including work semi-state bodies.

At Waterteck we Provide Filtration Systems which give you a Superior Quality Water Supply from any of the above sources. Please Note: Your water supply will also be free of the Unwanted Chemicals usually associated with mains water supplies

WANTED FOR BREAKING

Telephone - Garrett Murphy: 086 6077307, Office: 090 6626837 www.parklawntreeservices.com • info@parklawntreeservices.com

GILROY GLASS

HAZELWOOD ROAD, SLIGO

• Manufacturers of double glazed units • Supplying Trade and retail • Complete glazing service • Stockists of all types of glass • Glass cut while you wait Replace your existing double glazed units with energy efficient units Tel: 071-9145400 Fax: 071-9140132 • Mobile: 087-2341 985

Phone: 086-8039502 Email: johngriffinshs@gmail.com www.scaffoldinghiresligo.ie

Northwest Express March, 2020

Domestic & Commercial Roofing

• New roofs • Re-roofing & re-lining • Gutters & valleys • Tile & slate effect sheeting • Asbestos removal & disposal We provide a reliable & professional service covering all counties of Ireland.

Call for a FREE QUOTE: 094-9860787 087-2565015 • www.waldronroofing.ie

COYNE TYRES BALLINA - LIMITED

SEPTIC TANK INSPECTIONS

TANK CLEAN

Boyle, Co. Roscommon WASTE WATER TREATMENT SPECIALISTS • Septic Tanks Emptied • Percolation areas and polishing filters installed • Range of sewage treatment units, Septic Tanks & Rain Water Tanks Supplied • All Work EPA and Local Authority Standard

Contact David Regan: 087-9125128

Aluminium & PVC Repairs

To windows, doors and patio doors

Expert patio door repairs!

• Rollers • Tracks • Hinges • Door Realignment • Locks • Multilocking systems etc Over 20 years experience servicing Irish windows and doors. Fully insured GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED Brendan Gormley: 071-9183860 / 087-2562669

offers Valid until 30/4/18

DEDICATED TYRE & BATTERY SALES & SERVICE, BALLINA, CO. MAYO

GARRACLOON, CLOGHANS, BALLINA, CO. MAYO

EN Certified septic tanks Certified and CE marked cattle slats, water harvesting tanks, Concrete pipes, Manhole rings, Water valve and fire hydrant chambers. Our concrete is EN206 certified to NSAI standard Concrete pipes size ranging from 9" up to 48" For a QUOTE call 087-9496476 or 096-73734 or visit our website: www.armstrongseptictanks.ie

For a professional service in planning applications for: Private houses, extensions (any size), small scale commercial, also cottage renovations etc. Timber frame and low energy dwellings a special interest.

Water Lane, Ballina, Co. Mayo • Tel: 096-21935 • After Hours : 087-2686360 • Pat Jnr: 087-2201819 Email: info@coynetyres.ie • Web: www.coynetyres.ie

Contact Martin McGloin Bunduff, Cliffoney, Co. Sligo casarcser@hotmail.com

Tel/Fax: 071-9166277 • Mob: 087-2817620 APPLICATIONS FOR ALL AGRICULTURAL SHEDS CARRIED OUT

Sandy Wheelers

Painters & Decorators

Painting & Decorating Interior and Exterior Wallpaper Service Calvath, Old Cartron Hill, Sligo Tel: 087-2506477 • sandywheeler0@gmail.com

• Traditional Tin Smiths • Copper • Aluminium • Zinc • Stainless Steel • Lead • Titanium • Natural Slate • Ornamentation

GG Roofing, The Grove, Kilmovee, Co. Mayo 087 2437259/094 Boyle,Phone: Co. Roscommon Telephone:9649296 071-9670010 Email: Email Us:info@ggroofing.ie info@pureflowers.ie••www.ggroofing.ie www.pureflowers.ie

PANEL BEATER REQUIRED Experience necessary Ballina Area Contact 085-1207292 Immediate start

Northwest Express March, 2020

TERRYS STOVES www.terrysstoves.com

• Free Survey available • Solid Fuel Stoves • Gas Fires

VOTED COURIER COMPANY OF THE YEAR 2018

people with energy

Fastway Courier Franchisors offer a cost effective, reliable courier service, backed up by the latest computer technology and online parcel tracking facilities.

When buying a stove you need good information on the wide range that is available I will help you get the product that best suits your needs.

Buy Once! Buy Right!

Phone: 0872066910 or 0719197925 TT’S QUARR BARRE Quality Stone Y LTD Products & Plant Hire

MULTIPURPOSE GARDEN SHEDS & GARAGES

Sligo Road, Carrick on Shannon (Beside Glancy’s Pub) Telephone: 089-4202361

DRY CLEANING Suits, Dresses, Jackets, Coats, Shirts, Blouses, Jumpers & Curtains

We are a family run quarrying & plant hire business, offering quality products and services to customers for more than 50 years. Our Quarrying Products Include: • All types of crushed stone • Chippings suitable for driveways, garden beds, sizes to suit individual requirements. Building Stone • Sand and Gravel • Readymix Services.

MARY’S LAUNDRY & DRY CLEANING

We have an extensive range of fleet for hire including tippers, artic tippers, Flatbeds and low loaders

We are National and International Hauliers • Phone: 097-83890 • Mobile: 087-2226243 • Fax: 097-83890 email: barrettsquarry@gmail.com • Bangor Erris, Co. Mayo

Contact: Ray Lynch Corlis, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Phone: 086-8943034 or 094-9621938 • AGENTS REQUIRED

DG Windows & Doors Josko Partner

IRONING SERVICE Shirts, Dresses, Pants, Tops, etc PRESSING Bedding, Suits, Dresses, etc FULL WASHING AND DRYING SERVICE AVAILABLE COMMERCIAL BUSINESS WELCOME Open Monday to Friday 9am until 6pm, Saturday 10am until 6pm

SPRAY FOAM INSULATION

DARRAGH & GREG TIMONEY

North West Windows Prop. Kevin Burns - Belcoo, Co. Fermanagh Email: kburns@btinernet.com

• WINDOWS • FRAMELESS, FULL HEIGHT ALL-GLASS SYSTEMS • LIFT-AND-SLIDE DOORS • FRONT & INTERIOR DOORS • SUN SHADING + NATURAL WOOD FLOORS Visit our new showroom Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm Sat By Appointment Sli MacNean, Blacklion, Co. Cavan Tel: 071-9853753 • Mob: 086-3896500 Email: dgwindows@btinternet.com www.josko.com

Suppliers & Installers of uPVC Windows & Doors Wide range of colours Tel: 087-2443903 After 6pm Tel: 048-66386525

DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL NATIONWIDE SERVICE E-MAIL:SALES@FOAMOX.IE TEL: 096 77735 • WWW.FOAMOX.IE

Northwest Express March, 2020

Fuel you can trust Ireland’s leading provider of oil products. Supplying fuel to households and businesses of all sizes since 1984.

• Domestic • Commercial • Agricultural • Retail DOMESTIC

RETAIL SALES IN OUR DEPOTS

Jones Oil has provided an eﬃcient and friendly local service to domestic customers across the country for over 35 years. From our base of 17 depots, a delivery of Home Heating Oil is now just a click away.

As well as providing a delivery service for our fuel products. Our depot locations are open to the public for sales of Road Diesel, Kerosene and Gas Oil direct from our pumps.

Local call: 0818-30-40-50 • Email: online@jonesoil.ie BUDGET PAYMENT PLAN

COMMERCIAL

Jones Oil supplies fuel to customers across the Construction sector on a daily basis. We supply a diverse customer base ranging from the local builder to the largest contractors and construction companies, both public and private, in the country.

Our Budget Payment Plan allows you to pay for your annual Home Heating Oil orders over a 12 month period with monthly Direct Debit payments to your Budget Plan account.

Sligo, Co. Sligo Tel: 071-9161926 sligo@jonesoil.ie

Claremorris, Co. Mayo Tel: 094-9371953 claremorris@jonesoil.ie

Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-71722 ballina@jonesoil.ie

Carrick on Shannon, Co. Leitrim Tel: 071-9620077 carrick@jonesoil.ie

Sonas Nursing Home now have 9 locations Nationwide

Sonas Nursing Homes located in Mayo, Sligo and Roscommon and throughout Ireland. Our Award-winning care has been acknowledged by healthcare experts and our dedicated team continue to set the standards in person-centred care based on values of Empathy, Warmth, Advocacy, Empowerment, Energy and Teamwork. Belmullet Knock Enniscrone Riverview Moyridge Roscommon Athlone Clonmel Tullow

T: 097 81940 T:094 93 17000 T:096 37840 T: 096 92000 T: 096 21886 T: 09066 28882 T: 09064 79568 T: 052 6121716 T: 059 918 1555

E: belmullet@sonas.ie E: knock@sonas.ie E: ard@sonas.ie E: riverview@sonas.ie E: moyridge@sonas.ie E: cloverhill@sonas.ie E: athlone@sonas.ie E: melview@sonas.ie E: tullow@sonas.ie

We offer services including Long term care, respite care, convalescence care and daycare. Sonas Nursing Homes have 9 locations in Ireland - Mayo, Sligo, Carlow, Tipperary, Westmeath & Roscommon. For more details on any of these Nursing Homes email: info@sonas.ie or visit www.sonas.ie

Northwest Express March, 2020