Northwest Express (June 2020) by northwest express

June 2020 Issue 4 - Volume 21

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55,027 PEOPLE WAITING FOR A DRIVING TEST

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Sligo County Council has a new Cathaoirleach. Fine Gael's Dara Mulvey was elected ahead of Independent Councillor Declan Bree by 11 votes to 7. Mr. Mulvey pictured with his wife, Colette, in Sligo this week.

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LONE, the organisation which supports older people is encouraging members of the public to be conscious of older people in our society who may be experiencing elder abuse or negligence on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The organisation has warned that older people may be more susceptible to elder abuse amid the current COVID-19 pandemic, with many experiencing a loss of independence due to COVID-19 safety restrictions. ALONE has highlighted the fact that many older people are more at risk now as they are seeing people less frequently. Many older people who would have been independent before the COVID-19 outbreak are now relying on others for support and assistance in their day-to-day lives. However, cocooning and social distancing measures have resulted in reduced home care services and other support services for older people, having a detrimental effect on their overall physical and mental wellbeing. There has also been a reduction in older people going into institutions such as hospitals and care homes to receive necessary care. The organisation is urging members of the public to remain

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vigilant and to safeguard our older people while also encouraging older people who are suffering from abuse or negligence to reach out and seek help. As an organisation, ALONE endeavours to support older people experiencing these difficulties and assist them when they need it most. Seán Moynihan, ALONE CEO, said “There are many different types of abuse of an older person, such as physical abuse, psychological abuse or financial abuse. These may be carried out deliberately, or through negligence. An older person may experience more than one form of abuse at any given time, unfortunately many feel too ashamed to come forward and seek help.” He continued, “Many older people are at an increased risk of suffering from abuse now as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect older and vulnerable people. Individuals who would have been independent before this crisis now have to rely on people where they didn’t before, and many of these individuals feel that their independence has been stripped away to some extent. We need to address this issue now to prevent it worsening over the coming weeks and months. Continued on Page 2

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Northwest Express June, 2020

news

55,027 people waiting for a driving test across the 49 testing centres

inn Féin TD for Roscommon/Galway Claire Kerrane has again called on the Minister for Transport Shane Ross to publish plans for the return of driving tests. Deputy Kerrane TOLD Midwest News today that she received figures from the Road Safety Authority with the breakdown by County of the numbers waiting for a driving test across the State, following my request to Minister Ross. The figures show that there are 55,027 people waiting for a driving test across the 49 testing centres in the State. In Roscommon town there are 590 people on the waiting list, in Ballina 464, in Castlebar 782, in Galway city 1552, Clifden 178, Tuam 472 and Sligo 651. The deputy says these numbers have skyrocketed from the 20,000 reported. She says there is now “an urgent need for clear plans as to how driving lessons and driving tests can be re-introduced in a safe manner. Perspex dividing screens, PPE

If you are concerned about an older person, call us on 0818 222 024 or email us at hello@alone.ie. If you have immediate concerns about the safety or welfare of an older person in your life, please contact An Garda Síochána immediately.” ALONE is also urging any older person who may be experiencing abuse to reach out and ask for support. “I would like to remind any older person that is struggling at the moment that supports are available to them through

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for instructors and testers, shorter driving routes all need to be examined. We also need to look at how other countries are

managing this issue post-Covid.. We now need a plan on how we get over 55,000 people through their driving test.”

ALONE and Local Authorities across the country. This isn’t something that you have to go through alone, our organisation is there to offer support, advice and assistance to those who need it. If you are struggling at all over the coming weeks and months, please do not hesitate to reach out and seek help.” said Moynihan. Since March, ALONE’s Support Line has received in excess of 23,833 calls for support. ALONE staff and volunteers have made more than 102,753 calls to older people who needed support, and provided more than 15,400 units of practical support,

including collecting groceries and prescriptions. ALONE is providing ongoing support to more than 12,616 older people who require support for difficulties with loneliness, health, finance, housing, accessing services, COVID-19 and other challenges. ALONE is encouraging older people who need advice to call ALONE on, 0818 222 024 from 8am-8pm, seven days a week. Contact ALONE on 0818 222 024 if you have concerns about your own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of an older person you know. Further information can be found on www.alone.ie.

IT Sligo Faculty of Engineering & Design has announced the approval of four new Level 8 Honours Degrees in Engineering which are available on CAO for 2020/21 intake of first year students. This is the first time students will have a direct entry route to an honours general engineering course in the Northwest region. The degrees on offer are: • BEng (Honours) in General Engineering – Level 8 (CAO code SG341) • BEng (Honours) in Mechanical Engineering – Level 8 (CAO code - SG344) • BEng (Honours) in Robotics & Automation – Level 8 (CAO code - SG350) • BEng (Honours) in Electronics & Self Driving Technologies – Level 8 (CAO code - SG349)

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hese new programmes, as well as the well established BEng (Honours) in Civil Engineering, will share a common first year and will facilitate the offering of a Level 8 General Entry on the CAO for students that have not decided on which field of Engineering they want to study. Head of Faculty of Engineering & Design at IT Sligo, Úna Parsons says this is an important aspect of the course; “It’s difficult for leaving certificate students to decide exactly which part of engineering they will most enjoy so offering a common first year was important to give students the time to decide what they want to do. This will enable students to experience each stream of engineering and pick the right career path for their

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ALONE calls for protection of our older people against violence, abuse and neglect Continued from front page

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future.” The courses will offer a very ‘hands-on’ practical experience for students in small lab classes so lecturers can offer the best educational experience. It will also offer a work placement in the third year to make sure students are industry ready. Head of Department of Mechatronic Engineering, Dr. David Mulligan said; “IT Sligo works very closely with industry and we build our degrees around the skills employers are looking for in industries where graduates are in demand. We are offering three new very exciting level 8 degree courses in booming industries. Thanks to our emphasis on practical elements of engineering, smaller class sizes and close connections with industry, our

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graduates have an excellent employability rate.” Qualification for the courses require a H5 in higher level leaving certificate maths as well as a minimum of a H6 in at least one other subject. The four year degree will be aligned to meet the requirements of Engineers Ireland for Chartered Engineer with additional learning and will enable students to further their studies at Master’s level. The Institute has an excellent reputation in engineering and has built very strong connections with industry leaders over its 50 year history. For anyone interested in taking part in these courses, an virtual open day will be held on the 24th June. Please visit www.itsligo.ie for further information. Advertising: 071-9154538 Editorial: 096-77743 Production: 071-9154538 Fax: 096-75641 Email: info@theexpress.ie Web: www.theexpress.ie

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 June, 2020

Over 50% drop in trade after first Covid-19 restrictions lifted C

ompanies that reopened under the first phase of the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions are experiencing less than half their usual level of business activity for this time of the year, a new survey has found. The survey of businesses across the country also found that a quarter of respondents expect to have earnings that will be 70% lower than usual over the next three months. The data, gathered by Chambers Ireland, also shows that smaller firms have seen their revenue reduced more significantly than larger ones. "We've had a mini economic Ice Age, effectively, and we need a very far-reaching programme to un-freeze it," said Ian Talbot, chief executive of Chambers Ireland on RTÉ's Morning Ireland. "There's also a regional impact to this where we're finding that the west, border and southeast regions seem to be worst affected - and also unpaid debts are increasingly a problem." More than 1,300 companies responded to the survey, which was carried out between 28 May and 2 June, prior to the most recent easing of restrictions and the granting of permission for the reopening of all retail outlets. Overall, the results show that business activity levels have been extremely low for firms that reopened under Phase 1, beginning on 18 May. Typically, these companies are experiencing less than half their normal levels of business activity for this time of year. Not surprisingly, those in entertainment, tourism, hospitality, retail and education are among the worst hit. Most respondents said they expect their earnings over the next three months to be half the normal amount, a slightly more optimistic outlook compared to the findings of the last survey when it was conducted a few weeks ago. Mr Talbot said that the main issue seems to be a reluctance amongst consumers to return to their previous levels of activity - be it due to uncertainty about their own economic outlook or simply unease about the risk of contracting Covid-19 while outside. "The type of operations opening, such as garden centres, have plenty of room, so they

were able to accommodate social distancing," he said. "So it seems to be about consumer behaviour and people being nervous about going back into environments where they fear they might be at risk of catching the disease." Another issue highlighted is the concern in the growing levels of unpaid invoices, the value of which is up significantly compared to this time last year. "It's a real cycle - if one person doesn't pay, several other people don't get paid in that cycle," he said. Responses also show that sentiment about the economy is beginning to improve, but there is no sign that business owners and operators are expecting a rapid snap back to normal activity. Mr Talbot said it would not take very long, under the current circumstances, for businesses to begin to fail en mass. "We certainly have a few more weeks and we welcomed the advancing of the phasing that took place last Friday," he said. "But

Drugs worth in the region of €1.2 million euro have been seized in the Mayo Garda Division, since the Divisional Drugs Taskforce was expanded six months ago. In addition to the drugs, over €12,500 in cash was seized and about €30,000 in counterfeit currency has been removed from circulation.

The Divisional Drugs Taskforce was expanded last December, providing more resources to tackle the sale and supply of drugs. Included in the seizures since then is the detection of five grow houses, ranging in value from €64,000 to €432,000 - which Gardai say have significantly disrupted the

companies are going to run out of any remaining cash they have, for example, so there is an imperative to keep supporting those companies and it does need to be through a combination of grant aid... as well as measures to get consumer demand going again." Chambers Ireland has again reiterated its call for more supports for businesses as they reopen and try to survive in the changed economy. "In the medium term, the next programme for government must urgently address the crisis facing local economies," Mr Talbot said. "This must include the financing of an ambitious package of support that invests billions, rather than millions, of euro. Otherwise we will see our cities and towns wither further." Mr Talbot added that the new government must also look beyond the direct supports to business and consider investing in infrastructure and housing.

Northwest Express June, 2020

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Northwest Express June, 2020

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Northwest Express June, 2020

news

Mayo Green Saoirse McHugh not in favour of the government formation document

chill native Saoirse McHugh, who unsuccessfully ran for the Green Party in Mayo in last February’s General and Seanad elections, and Fianna Fáil’s Galway West TD Éamon Ó Cuív have today both said they would not be voting in favour of the government formation document. Speaking to the national broadcaster Saoirse McHugh said that having read the finer details of what is being proposed, she thought it was “woolly, management speak” and “quite fudgy”. She claims the agreement doesn’t do enough to address the threat of climate change and that proposals on housing fell short of expectations. While Galway West FF deputy Éamon Ó Cuív, said it was probable that the

programme would be ratified regardless of his opposition, and said he would vote for his party leader Micheál Martin to be Taoiseach, but doubts very much that the government would last. He had stated his opposition to the three part coalition to Midwest News last week. Speaking to RTÉ today, he said that he seriously fears for his Fianna Fáil party. “I reckon the way we’re going there will be two big political parties in the future and one of them will not be Fianna Fáil.” The deputy leader of FF is Mayo's deputy Dara Calleary. He, of course, is in favour of the government formation document . He was speaking to Midwest News yesterday when it was completed. He was pivotal in drafting it.

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several marts around the country during the Covid-19 lockdown, the Irish Farmers Journal developed an app to facilitate marts who wished to hold online sales. The Irish Farmers Journal completed testing last week and is now rolling out the new online platform to marts around the country. Marts have invested a huge amount of time and effort over the last few weeks altering systems of sales and working with the Irish Farmers Journal on perfecting the operating system.

Register online Farmers can register online at www.martbids.ie and can view sales as they take place around the country. Buyers can then request permission to buy online for the mart they wish to purchase at. Users can also download the MartBids app on the Apple App store or Google Play store. One of the key strengths of the MartBids app is the catalogue function, which lists cattle entered for the sale as

soon as they are booked into the mart that morning. Commenting on the new bidding tool, Central Auctions general manager Michael Harty said: “We’ve been through a lot over the last few weeks, but we’re delighted to be able to facilitate online sales for local farmers. We tried tender sales as we had no other option at the time, but they were torture and a lot of work for mart staff. The MartBids app is a gift and both sellers and buyers love the simplicity of it. It’s very transparent for both the buyer and seller and it’s also very easy to use for our auctioneers, which is very important for the smooth running of a sale. We have a lot of buyers still coming in to look at the cattle and I think that will still be the way a lot of people will do business. We are looking forward to getting back to some form of normality next Monday when we will welcome farmers back around Central Auctions rings.”

Clifden beach water deemed of poor quality

Clifden Beach in Galway is one of the four poorest quality bathing sites in Ireland.. A new report by the European Environmental Agency has found that Ireland continues to have one of the worst records in Europe for bathing water quality. Merrion Strand, Sandymount Strand and Portrane Beach in Dublin and Clifden Beach in Galway are the four worst spots. Grace Bolton of the European Commission office in Dublin says we lag behind the EU average when it comes to bathing water quality.

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New Online Bidding System for Balla Mart, Mayo In response to the challenges of Covid-19 on how marts do business, the Irish Farmers Journal has launched a new online bidding tool which allows farmers to watch mart sales and bid in real-time from the comfort of their own home.Farmers simply need to register their details on www.martbids.ie to watch the live sales and bid on animals.Marts already on board include: Balla (Mayo), Birr (Offaly), Castlerea (Roscommon), Nenagh (Tipperary), Kilkenny, Roscrea (Tipperary), Tuam (Galway) & Elphin (Roscommon – 15 June) This app has been developed as a free service for farmers. Martbids also allows farmers to take pictures on their smart phone and advertise their livestock in advance of the sale – letting buyers across the country know when their livestock will be available for sale through the mart. MartBids is brought to you by the Irish Farmers Journal in partnership with livestock marts. Following requests from

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Northwest Express June, 2020

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Northwest Express June, 2020

news

Local Mayo EUROSPAR Supermarkets recognised as Best in Class

here has never been a more appropriate time to acknowledge and celebrate excellence in grocery retailing. EUROSPAR retailers have always taken great pride in providing the best of service to their customers and local communities and have responded brilliantly to the Covid-19 global crisis. Brogan’s EUROSPAR Belmullet and Kennedy’s EUROSPAR Swinford were due to receive both a Customer First @ EUROSPAR award and a Top of the Tree accolade at a gala celebration evening in March. Unfortunately, due to the health crisis, that was not possible and instead their awards were couriered to them. These awards are recognition of true retailing excellence and among the most coveted in the grocery retail industry. Customer First @ EUROSPAR is the retail operations standards programme that has been implemented across the EUROSPAR supermarket group while the Top of the Tree awards is special recognition for outstanding retail practice across EUROSPAR’s six pillar Retail Strategy of Value, Freshness, Rewards, Choice, Service and Experience and is unanimously endorsed by their retailers. Accepting the award on behalf of Brogan’s EUROSPAR, Annette Brogan said: “We are delighted to receive this accolade which is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff and a timely boost to us all as we trade through the Covid-19 crisis. This acknowledgement lets our customers know that we are leaders in the field and we’re honoured to receive the recognition.” Derek Kennedy, EUROSPAR Swinford said, “We are proud to serve the local community and have continued to do so over the last number of weeks and months as we have all navigated the challenges thrown up by this global health crisis. I want to thank the staff

Staff of Brogan’s EUROSPAR Belmullet, pictured with their awards: From left – Annette Howard, Aileen Howard, Caroline Lally, Justyna Kunkel, Margaret Ann Connolly and Tony Joyce.

and our customers for their loyalty and dedication. We are thrilled that our high standards have been recognised with these awards.” How Retailers communicate with their shoppers and local communities has never been more important. The Covid-19 pandemic has amplified the need for all retailers to reassure their local communities that they are providing safe environments for all shoppers. EUROSPAR’s retailers have been working tirelessly to promote the importance of health and safety in their Supermarkets by producing individual videos that are being shared across their social media channels.

The innovative videos are proving immensely popular and have been viewed by more than 1 million people since first being produced. Commenting, Malachy Hanberry, Managing Director, EUROSPAR said: “EUROSPAR retailers strive for excellence in every aspect of their service to their shoppers and the local communities in which they are embedded. In meeting the exacting standards of the Top of the Tree programme, our retailers illustrate their commitment to being industry leaders in the retail sector and their focus on exceeding customer expectations and I want to congratulate them on their achievements.”

Over a third of Irish tradesmen don’t wear sunscreen when working

Chadwicks Group is encouraging tradesmen to stay safe in the sun this summer

With construction work returning to normality across the country as part of the easing of lockdown restrictions, there has been renewed awareness of the importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) across all sectors including construction. While construction workers would already be familiar with wearing PPE to go on site, this summer Chadwicks Group is reminding tradesmen of the importance of including sunscreen as an essential part of their PPE. New research from Chadwicks Group reveals that over a third of tradesmen (36%) admit to not wearing sunscreen and over a quarter (28%) say they only apply it sometimes. This is despite 71% of those polled saying their work requires them to be outdoors for parts of the day. For those who choose not to wear sun cream, almost half (46%) say they simply forget to apply it each day, while 24% don’t believe the sun in Ireland is strong enough to get burnt. 8% of tradesmen opt not to use sun protection as they say it tends gets into their eyes while working. With the warm weather set to continue, Chadwicks Group has installed free sunscreen dispensers in its 50 branches nationwide to help its customers and

colleagues stay safe while working this summer. According to the Construction Industry Federation an average sized adult should apply at least 1 teaspoon (6ml) of sunscreen to each arm, leg, front of body and back of body, and 1/2 teaspoon (3ml) of sunscreen to the face, including ears and neck. The recommendation is to use a high SPF sunscreen, with a minimum SPF30, and to apply liberally to dry skin 15 minutes before UV exposure and every 2-3 hours thereafter. Other means of ensuring protection is to adopt the use of protective clothing such as a hat and neck protection, sunglasses and to work in the shade if possible. Commenting on the latest findings, Patrick Atkinson, CEO, Chadwicks Group Ireland said: “As the construction industry has returned and continues to adjust to a new normality, it has coincided with a period of warm sunny weather. While people have been enjoying the sunshine, it’s important to remember the sun can pose serious health risks for those who work outside and do not protect themselves against harmful UV rays. Constructions workers are familiar with wearing PPE such as masks, gloves, glasses

and protectives shoes to work, but this summer we want to remind them that sunscreen should also be an essential part of their PPE routine. Our survey shows that many tradesmen are not taking the necessary precautions to keep themselves safe from the sun when working outdoors. To help our customers and colleagues stay safe this summer, we have installed free sunscreen dispensers across all our branches nationwide making it easier than ever to stay safe in the sun.” On 18th May Chadwicks Group announced the reopening of its 50 branches nationwide to cater for the construction industry. The Group has invested in the region of €200,000 to adapt its operational procedures and to implement rigorous new health and safety protocols. These have been designed to protect customers and colleagues while also making the experience as easy as possible for customers. All members of the Chadwicks team have undergone training on the new protocols which include hygiene, delivery procedures, social distancing and footfall management. *Survey carried out among 343 tradesmen in Ireland

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Northwest Express June, 2020

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95% have not recorded plans for their future healthcare

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COVID-19 has prompted more people to think about their future care wishes

he vast majority of Irish adults (95%) have not taken steps to record their future care wishes, however almost a quarter (23%) have been prompted to think about doing so because of COVID-19. The findings are contained in new research launched today by Safeguarding Ireland which encouraged more people, particularly those who are older or vulnerable, to record their wishes and preferences for future healthcare. Safeguarding Ireland highlighted that planning ahead now – for if we became unable to make decisions or live independently due to age related frailty, serious illness, or an underlying condition – safeguards against risks of abuse and is also better for our loved ones and healthcare professionals. Responding to the findings, Safeguarding Ireland called for a major change in attitudes and behaviour on sensitive care issues with much greater consideration, conversation and recording of people’s wishes. The research, carried out on a nationally representative sample of 1,001 adults using RED C’s omnibus survey, found that just 4% of adults had completed an Advance Healthcare Directive and 4% the Think Ahead form, which are the two recommended ways to record future healthcare wishes. Just 5% of adults had completed either document. During the COVID-19 period the number who had completed the Think Ahead form increased from 2% to 4% and an additional 1% completed an Advance Healthcare Directive. However, 23% of people reported that they were prompted to consider completing a Think Ahead form during COVID-19 and 14% to consider completing an Advance Healthcare Directive. Safeguarding Ireland Chairperson Patricia RickardClarke urged people to act on this consideration and put their plans into a document

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FOR SALE which can be referred to if necessary. “During COVID-19 it’s more important to think about our future care and plan ahead. Talking about and recording our choices on health treatments, place of care and our trusted person to act on our behalf – safeguards us. It also greatly helps loved ones and healthcare professionals to provide that our wishes are respected. “It may not always be possible to deliver on all of our wishes, and this may be more difficult during the pandemic. However, by being discussed and recorded your preferences can always be at the centre of important conversations or decisions.” Older people were just slightly more likely to have planned ahead their future care, as were women and those living in urban areas. However, forward planning was low amongst all groups. Some reported that they were not clear on how to plan ahead and what steps to take. However, Patricia RickardClarke clarified that the Think Ahead form facilitates the recording of important wishes

in the event of serious illness or end of life. “The Think Ahead from is available to everybody at www.thinkahead.ie. It is a planning document in which people can record personal information, emergency contacts, health insurance, culture preferences, religious beliefs, place of care wishes, organ donation wishes and financial information. “It can also include an Advance Healthcare Directive which records future healthcare preferences including treatment approaches, surgery, medicines and resuscitation. “Preferences in a Think Ahead form can be updated at any stage. Once completed it is important that trusted family, friends or professionals know where the form is stored.” Think Ahead is an initiative of the Irish Hospice Foundation. Ms Rickard-Clarke added that planning ahead is better for our loved ones and families as they can support us, guided by clarity on our preferences. This reduces family tensions and stresses and also the risk of a person taking advantage

of and abusing vulnerability. “It is also better for healthcare professionals to have clarity on who our healthcare information can and cannot be shared with. This avoids healthcare workers getting drawn into family stresses.” The research also found that just 6% of people had in place an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA), which is very low by European standards, although 13% had considered it during COVID-19. 30% of all adults surveyed had made a Will and this was higher among older people (71% among over 65s). Research commissioned by Safeguarding Ireland last February found that just 5% of adults had documented what their place of care preferences (such as at home with supports, nursing home, hospice, or family members house). Safeguarding means living safely, free from abuse of neglect. It means our choices, particularly if we are vulnerable, are clearly heard and respected. More information, including the RED C research, can be viewed at safeguardingireland.org

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Outdoor gatherings of less than 5,000 people could return by September

Outdoor gatherings with less than 5,000 people may return as early as September. The government has left the door open for some gigs and cultural events to go ahead later this year. Cinemas may also be allowed to re-open in August with social distancing.

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Northwest Express June, 2020

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Northwest Express June, 2020

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Homeless figures in North West now increasing faster than any other region • 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

orth West Simon Community has responded to the latest emergency accommodation figures saying it’s deeply disappointing to see that the number of people in emergency accommodation in the North West is growing faster than in any other region across Ireland. According to the new figures from the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, the number of people in emergency accommodation in Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal in April grew by 19% to 83 people including 12 children, compared to April 2019. This was the highest increase recorded across the regions in Ireland. Nationally there was a decrease of 10% in the overall numbers. The charity also expressed concern about the growing number of single adults in emergency accommodation, which grew by 48% to 68 people compared to 35 people in April the previous year. “The number of single adults in emergency accommodation has increased month on month for the past year, and North West Simon Community has seen a similar trend in its own services. The number of single people supported in 2019 increased to 101 from 77 in 2018. In Leitrim for example, where there is no emergency accommodation centre we supported 30 single men in 2019, a 200% increase from the 10 single men supported in 2018” said Noel Daly, General Manager of North West Simon Community.

The government statistics record that only 3 families with children were in emergency accommodation during April. However, North West Simon Community believe that the reason the number is so low is the ban on evictions introduced at the onset of the COVID-19 restrictions. “We are currently supporting 5 households across the region who are under threat of immediate eviction from their homes, as soon as the ban is lifted, and it is likely that the number of families in emergency accommodation will quickly rise once more.” Noel said. Official statistics illustrate clearly that homelessness is growing across Donegal, Sligo and Leitrim but North West Simon Community warns that the scale of the homelessness crisis in the North West is much bigger than the current statistics suggest. According to Noel Daly, “homelessness is still very much on the increase in our community and services are being stretched to the limits to support those seeking support. Quarterly Local Authority Homelessness Performance Reports published by the Department, record that the total number of unique individuals offered emergency accommodation in the region in 2017 was 169. By the end of 2018 the number had risen to 189, and in 2019 a new high of 219 was recorded. With the number of Emergency beds available in the region remaining constant at 57 throughout the three years, services are

struggling to support all those in need of help”. North West Simon Community points out that the number of people accessing emergency accommodation is only one aspect of a complex problem. The figures released by the Government, don’t include families in refuges, direct provision, people sharing with family and friends in overcrowded circumstances, or living in cars, vans, or sleeping rough. The Social Housing Assessment published in December 2019, identified 594 households eligible for social housing whose “current tenure” was listed as either “living with parents”, or “living with relatives/ friends”. These statistics show that there are a far higher number of people living in insecure housing in the North West Region than the monthly homeless statistics suggest", Noel Daly said. North West Simon Community’s services have continued to operate throughout the Coronavirus crisis. According to Noel, “the outbreak of Covid-19 has had a huge impact on those at risk of or experiencing homelessness and has put so many already vulnerable people at increased risk. Far too many women, men, young people and children are experiencing the trauma of homelessness. Our committed staff on the frontline are doing whatever we can to ensure that people can remain safe, and in their own homes where possible, during this difficult time.”

Local rural transport providers to encourage passengers to use facemasks Rural transport providers in the region are encouraging people to wear face coverings. While face coverings are not mandatory, companies that operate routes across Longford, Leitrim and Roscommon are encouraging customers to

be mindful of others while on their services. All public routes were running throughout the pandemic but with the lockdown restrictions on travel easing, many people who did not travel to their local town are not making plans to get

out to get essential goods themselves. Damien O’ Neill, Manager of Local Link Longford Westmeath and Roscommon, he says even though there is reduced capacity on all buses, every effort will be made to ensure people can get a seat.

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Northwest Express June, 2020

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St Angela’s College well prepared and looking forward to welcoming new students in 2020!

ince founded in 1952, St. Angela’s College has developed significantly and continues to broaden its range of courses in response to local and national trends. As Acting President, Amanda McCloat explains ‘Unprecedented growth over the last decade places the College in an excellent position to continue to offer the highest quality University-level courses with specialist facilities, small classes and a strong community spirit.’ She continues ‘As Leaving Certificate students adapt to a very different process this year; we want to assure them and their parents/guardians that every measure will be taken to ensure that health and safety remains paramount as they begin their higher education journey with us”. The College looks forward welcoming new students to their courses which include Nursing (General / Intellectual Disability); Home Economics Teacher Education; Home Economics; Nutrition, Food and Business Management.’ Bachelor of Nursing Science (General / Intellectual Disability) students at St. Angela’s contribute not only to the campus but to the local community with many placements at Sligo University Hospital as

well as other HSE clinical settings here in the North West. BNSc students enjoy Clinical Placement each year of the course and gain valuable experience in a variety of hospital and community settings. In just four years, BNSc students can register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland and become fully recognised nursing practitioners. The College continues to be the sole provider of Home Economics study in the country. With Home Economics Teacher Education as popular as ever, the College strives to meet this demand on a national level. This five-year course will see graduates complete a BA which is then followed by a Professional Masters in Education (PME). Graduates will also be qualified to teach in a second elective subject (Biology, Religious Education or Irish). In September 2019, the College launched a new four year BA in Home Economics focusing on the three core disciples of Home Economics; Food Studies; Textiles, Fashion and Design; Family Resource Management. Graduates of this new BA will become Home Economists and will acquire the skills and knowledge to work in the Community (advocating

sustainable health and wellbeing of individuals, families and community groups) as well as the Food Sector (food advisors, product development). A five month placement in year-three of the course provides an excellent opportunity to explore career opportunities. Graduates of the new BA in Home Economics may also explore teaching, through further postgraduate studies at St Angela’s College. With an emphasis on food and nutrition, combined with business management modules, the Bachelor of Applied Science in Nutrition, Food and Business Management continues to educate graduates who gain employment in Ireland’s many food and beverage companies, as well as abroad. The four year honours degree seeks to prepare individuals for the challenges of producing foods safe for human consumption, developing more nutritious, healthier food options for dynamic, ever-changing markets. A five-month placement in year three proves pivotal for many students who happily return to their placement company for full-time employment. For more detail of these and all courses offered by the College see www.stangelas.nuigalway,ie/programmes

Bank of Ireland introduces carers’ card to support vulnerable customers - added support during Covid restrictions WHAT will, undoubtedly, be a great comfort for some still restricted under Covid lockdown rules will be the new Bank of Ireland carers’ debit card which provides a safe and secure way for trusted relative and friends, or other designated carers to manage the day-today living expenses of those in care. The Carers’ Card gives parents and carers controlled access to the accounts of the person they are looking after. The new card is an initiative of the Bank’s Vulnerable Customer Unit (VCU), which provides enhanced banking support for customers in vulnerable circumstances. The VCU developed the Carers’ Card after handling multiple cases where carers faced obstacles in managing the money and expenses of Bank of Ireland customers they are looking after. In the absence of formal arrangements such as power of attorney, it can often be

difficult for carers to access cash for dayto-day expenses. To provide transparency and protection for both the carer and the customer, the card bears the carer’s initials as well as the customer’s name and has built-in safeguards such as limits on cash withdrawals and daily monitoring by the Vulnerable Customer Unit. The Carers’ Card is an optional feature of the Bank’s Vulnerable Customer Account.

Gavin Kelly, Chief Executive of Bank of Ireland’s Retail Ireland division, said: “When COVID-19 happened we prioritised cocooning supports and other initiatives that addressed an immediate need for our vulnerable customers. However, we had already challenged ourselves to solve a problem which predates the pandemic and will persist afterwards. Carers provide our customers with invaluable emotional and physical support but it’s

often difficult for them to help with managing day-to-day living expenses. We think the Carer’s Card is a really practical solution that helps our customers and their carers while providing protection and transparency to both.”

Mervyn Taylor, Executive Director, Sage Advocacy said: “Sage Advocacy welcomes this initiative by Bank of Ireland. We have long been concerned about the safeguarding aspects of informal arrangements whereby a family member and / or a carer effectively ends up controlling the finances of vulnerable adults. Carefully controlled access to accounts overseen by specially trained bank staff is a positive development.” Bank of Ireland’s five-year Financial Wellbeing programme aims to improve the financial capability, literacy and confidence of its customers. For some this can be especially difficult due to agerelated or cognitive impairment, illness or financial abuse so the Bank last year brought its existing resources together into a single, dedicated vulnerable customer unit. The VCU has also provided support during the COVID-19 pandemic with new cocooning services that allow customers to access cash or receive a printed bank statement without having to leave their homes or break their isolation. For more information on the Carer’s Card customers can call the dedicated helpline provided by the Bank’s Vulnerable Customer Unit: 1800 946 146 (9.30 am-4.30 pm Mon-Fri).

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Northwest Express June, 2020

focus on farming

Northwest Express June, 2020

What are the advantages of switching to protected urea? W ith the agricultural sector under increased scrutiny over its ammonia and greenhouse gas emissions, farmers are being urged to switch from standard urea and calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) to protected urea e.g. Limus treated urea. The consequence of failing to address this issue may be to reduce stock numbers, an option that would be unpopular with farmers and could be financially challenging. Teagasc has described protected urea as “the number one technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions on grassland farms and help achieve ammonia reduction targets.” But what are the advantages of making the switch, and how do protected urea products work?

Environmental and economic benefits The government has identified the reduction of nitrous oxide losses and ammonia losses as two key targets in its Climate Action Plan. Ammonia is a pollutant that reacts with other pollutants in the air to form a fine ammonium-containing aerosol, which can have a negative impact on human health. Nitrous oxide is a powerful greenhouse gas that can stay in the atmosphere for more than 100 years. One tonne of nitrous oxide is equivalent to 298 tonnes of carbon dioxide. Protected urea produces lower nitrous oxide emissions compared to CAN and lower ammonia losses compared to standard urea. The environmental benefits are clear, but does this mean that farmers will have to take a financial

hit as they transition to protected urea? Actually, using protected urea can be a more efficient and economic approach on your farm. CAN is often regarded as the most reliable source of nitrogen for securing high yields but Teagasc trials have demonstrated that this is not the case. They found that protected urea gives the equivalent yield to CAN on Irish grassland, while protected urea gave a cost saving of 14pc compared to CAN. The change to protected urea is straightforward in terms of application and, importantly, is cost neutral, unlike the other changes in technology proposed by Teagasc to reduce emissions. What is protected urea? Protected urea is urea fertiliser treated with an active ingredient called a urease inhibitor. At present, only three urease inhibitors are registered under EU fertiliser regulations - NBPT, NPPT and 2-NPT. All protected- urea products contain at least one of these active ingredients. The Teagasc website has a full listing of recommended products. These urease inhibitors have been used in other markets for decades, e.g. one third of the urea used in the USA is treated with a urease inhibitor.

How does protected urea work? Urea is not readily available to plants and initially needs to be converted into ammonium, which can be achieved when urease enzymes in the soil bind to the urea. “Urease enzymes are produced by plants, fungi and microbes in the soil and they have an active site

that can bind urea” says BASF’s Richard Corden. “Once bound, urease enzymes begin to convert urea into ammonium. This raises the pH of the soil and ammonia volatilisation can occur if this pH spike is not buffered by sufficient rainfall. Urease inhibitors temporarily block urease enzymes, giving time for the urea to move into the soil, buﬀering the pH spike and minimising losses. However, different urease enzymes require different urease inhibitors. As the only urease inhibitor available with two active ingredients (NBPT and NPPT), Limus is a new urease inhibitor that can

bind to a wider variety of urease enzymes and minimise losses.

What is Limus protected urea? BASF, a leading supplier of crop protection products to the Irish market, has recently entered the protected urea market with the launch of a new urease inhibitor called Limus. Limus is the only urease inhibitor available with two active ingredients, containing both NBPT and NPPT. This enables it to bind to a wider variety of urease enzymes and minimise losses. It also uses an innovative, liquid formulation, which stops the product losses that can occur at application when spreading urease inhibitor products applied as a coating. Limus can be applied throughout the season, regardless of weather conditions. Although, as with all fertilisers, it should not be used during periods of drought and snow or when the ground is waterlogged. Limus protected urea has been approved by Teagasc and it is currently available from four producers in Ireland. The granules are a light-yellow colour and the

BASF logo will be on the bag.

Proven results In 74 different trials that were carried out by BASF, it was found that Limus protected urea delivers equivalent yields to CAN, which reinforces the findings shown by Teagasc. BASF also looked at the performance of Limus compared to standard urea. It found that Limus protected urea reduced ammonia losses by up to 98pc and delivered an average yield increase of 5pc through the reduction of ammonia losses. “Limus protected urea offers a good technical solution to farmers using either urea or CAN,” says Richard. “Trials consistently show that Limus protected urea outperforms urea and works as reliably as CAN, giving equivalent yield performance while generally being cheaper, making Limus protected urea a reliable, cost effective and environmentally friendly choice on farm.” For more information on Limus protected urea, see the BASF website or contact your local agrimerchant.

Northwest Express June, 2020

focus on farming

Northwest Express June, 2020

Calls for support for Irish grain amidst drought conditions

he continuing drought is having a severe impact on the tillage sector. The Irish Farmers’s Association’s (IFA’s) grain chairperson, Mark Browne released a statement today, June 16, describing the effect of drought on crops. Browne commented that recent rains have been too little too late for many crops and how many growers will have significant yield reductions while in other situations, entire crops are a write-off. He stated: “The situation is particularly critical right up through the midlands and into the east and north-east where growers, in some cases, have practically closed the gates on crops which may not be worth harvesting.” Straw Supply He noted that the reduction in winter crop plantings, which may be greater than 40%, as well as the recent dry conditions are sure to result in a decrease in straw supply. It is estimated that barley straw availability will reduce by 300,000t and wheaten straw by 200,000t compared to last year. This is almost a 50% reduction in supply. The grain chairperson called on merchants and feed mills “to prioritise Irish grain and pay sustainable grain prices to Irish tillage farmers”. Maize Imports He also emphasised the importance of using Irish grain and stated that the importation of “cheap maize” is compounding the current situation. Browne stated: “Quality assured Irish grain must not continue to be dictated by the price of thirdcountry feedstuffs, which do not conform to the regulatory and environmental standards, demanded by the EU Commission and the Irish Government.”

“The Farm to Fork Strategy element of the European Green Deal is aiming to make food systems fair, healthy and environmentally-friendly. There is nothing fair about targets in the Green Deal which will increase the regulatory burden and

undermine local tillage framers while continuing to allow access to non-EU feedstuffs produced to different standards. New Government Must Support The Tillage Sector He called on the new Government

to support the tillage sector. “They cannot ignore the strategic importance of the sector to the broader agricultural industry, and the critical role native grains play in Ireland’s food provenance credentials, in addition to its low carbon footprint.

100,000 kegs of unused beer to be partially used as fertiliser There are currently over 100,000 kegs – or 10 million pints – of unused Heineken Ireland produce sitting in pubs, restaurant and hotels around the country. Now it appears that the brewer may use some of it as agricultural fertiliser to offload unused stock in preparation for these businesses to reopen. The move comes as part of an “unprecedented quality and cleaning operation” undertaken by Heineken Ireland. As a result of the swift lockdown in mid-March, there are currently over 100,000 kegs of Heineken Ireland beer sitting in the cellars and dispensing taps of shuttered bars across the country…Heineken Ireland is now collecting this product and has committed to

shouldering the cost of the unused stock it collects. The brewer pointed out that this is “equivalent to a contribution of over ten million pints to pubs across Ireland”. The expired draught beer and cider will be repurposed to produce electricity through anaerobic digestion, or could potentially be used for agricultural fertiliser. Recently, Heineken’s brewery in Cork city began brewing produce again for newlyreopening pubs, restaurants and hotels. Under the Government’s accelerated ‘Roadmap for Reopening Business and Society’, restaurants, hotels and pubs serving food will be allowed to reopen from June 29.

“Irish tillage farmers were disproportionately affected by the current CAP due to convergence and greening measures; therefore, any further reduction in supports or increased regulation under CAP 2020 cannot be tolerated,” he concluded.

Tillage In The Programme For Government

Looking at the tillage sector more broadly, there wasn’t a whole lot of detail on the sector in the new Programme for Government, revealed recentlybut there are some positives to take. First of all, while it doesn’t come under tillage specifically, there is an outline under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) to “seek reforms to the CAP to reward farmers for sequestering carbon, restoring biodiversity, improving water and air quality, producing clean energy, and developing schemes that support results-based outcomes”. Being rewarded for carbon sequestration will no doubt be welcomed by tillage farmers planting crops and improving soil health. It could also result in a further increase in the area of cover crops planted over winter which could, in turn, help to improve biodiversity and benefit soil health, as well as water and air quality.

Northwest Express June, 2020

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Northwest Express June, 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 20

focus on farming

Northwest Express June, 2020

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 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, bright-eyed, 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. 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 June, 2020

QUALITY SECOND-HAND HEAVY PLANT AND MACHINERY A wide range of construction machinery nationally and for export worldwide.

FOR SALE FORd TW 15 4x4 OF FARm InTERnATIOnAL 885xL OF FARm FERguSOn 35x ExcAvATORS JcB 814 pOWER SLIdE HITAcHI Ex120-3 RAngE OF BuckETS TO SuIT ExcAvATORS 18.6x34 RImS And TyRES TO SuIT mF OR InTERnATIOnAL 16.9 x34 TO SuIT LAndInI. TAncO FROnT LOAdER TO SuIT mF 165/168/188 / 265 ETc QuIckIE LOAdER TO SuIT FORd 4610 cAB gLASS TO SuIT FORd And mASSEy FERguSOn TRAcTORS.

pIck up HITcHES TO SuIT FORd And mASSEy TRAcTORS cAB pARTS And dOORS TO SuIT mF And FORd TRAcTORS QuIck HITcHES TO SuIT 10 And 12 TOn ExcAvATORS TIppIng gEAR TO SuIT vOLvO FH12 pARTS TO SuIT HITAcHI uHO 71 WAnTEd • HITAcHI Ex60-1 And Ex60-2/Ex1001/Ex120-1 FH130-1/FH130-2/FH130-3 • cAT 910/920 LOAdERS • mERcEdES AcTROS 1840 up TO 1846 • FLAT 80 -90/90/100-90/110-90

• 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. • cAT 215/225/235/320/322/325 ExcAvATORS • InTERnATIOnAL 885/965 ETc • HInO TRuckS 8x4 1998 TO 2001 • ScAnIA 124-420 And 113-320 • STREAmLInE TRAcTOR unITS • ALL ExcAvATORS cOnSIdEREd.

Ballina, co. mayo • Tel: 087-413-9687

DEL MORINO FLAIL MOWER The Del Morino Flipper Flail Mower is the perfect tool for farmers, growers and landscape professionals. This machine is equally good at mowing grass as it is at shredding pruned materials and bushes

STANDARD FEATURES: Reversible Hydraulic side shift three-point hitch, category 2. Cast iron gearbox 540 rpm with free wheel and with pass throught axle. Four belt transmission, with adjustable tensioner. Rotor with hammer blades. Adjustable rear roller.Adjustable skids.Universal PTO shaft Category 5. Available in 210cm, 230cm, 250cm, 270cm widths

Northwest Express June, 2020

0% FINANCE AVAILABLE

Fertiliser Spreader XT20/24/48

CALL FOR A QUOTE 087-1948404 www.teagle.ie Frank Byrne Ireland Sales Manager

Simple setting - Check, Set & Go

FOR A QUOTE CONTACT: FRANK BYRNE 087 1948404

farmingServices

Northwest Express June, 2020

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

Contact 0044 77 8927 6354

Advertise Here!

MAYO MATS

Contact 071-9154538 for details of our excellent rates

K&C MULVANEY Ltd.

Dead & Worn out Animals Collection Service Daily Collection in all Areas Telephone: MULVANEYS at: Tel: 049-4338331 or 086-8551932 / 086-3827008

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

DEAD AND WORN-OUT ANIMALS Contact: Tom Rogers Strokestown, Co. Roscommon SAME DAY COLLECTION SERVICE SERVICING LEITRIM & SLIGO FARMERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS

071-9634783 / 9633344

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED TRACTORS WANTED DRAINS AND SEWERS CLEANED Only Licensed Knackers Yard & Service in NorthWest Lowest Prices and Daily Collection Guaranteed

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

farmingServices

Northwest Express June, 2020

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

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/Ex1001/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.

Call Brendan on: 087-230 7914 OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY - BOHOLA, SWINFORD, CO. MAYO

Mulroy & Sons Farm Machinery based in Bohola Swinford, Co. Mayo, import new and used Farm Machinery from the United Kingdom. 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

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

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

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

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

Contact Numbers: 086 252 9314 • 091 799 116

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

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

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 ACCOUNTANCY | PLANNING | ADVICE

Northwest Express June, 2020

Ariel Motors

LTD

Unit 2, Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo

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

Discoun t with th is Advert

â&#x20AC;˘ Servicing â&#x20AC;˘ Panel Beating â&#x20AC;˘ Tracking â&#x20AC;˘ Parts â&#x20AC;˘ Light Setting â&#x20AC;˘ NCT Preperation â&#x20AC;˘ Valeting â&#x20AC;˘ Recovery

Ariel Dym 086-376-1953 â&#x20AC;˘ 086-8978395 â&#x20AC;˘ www.apmotors.ie

auTo Body rePair sligo Crash repair & repainting specialists Tel:Â 071-9167857 Mobile:Â 086-2670014Â panelbeateroconnell23@gmail.com largan, Collooney, Co.sligo www.autobodyrepairsligo.com

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

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

JOHN COSGROVE MoTor FaCTors

Tel: 096-21935 â&#x20AC;˘ Call out 087-2686360 Phone / Fax: 09672660 â&#x20AC;˘ www.coynetyres.ie

â&#x20AC;˘ Car & TraCTor ParTs â&#x20AC;˘ BaTTeries & FilTers â&#x20AC;˘ eleCTriCal ParTs â&#x20AC;˘ lighTs & luBriCanTs Tubbernania, Ballintogher, Co. sligo Tel: 071-9164244 â&#x20AC;˘ 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.)

naturalhealth SURVIVE Season ALLERGIES Northwest Express June, 2020

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.

oes spring have you sniffling and sneezing? Tips for easing the pain of seasonal allergies. Spring has sprung. Trees have burst into leaf, flowers are budding — and for millions of allergy-sufferers, sneezing, congestion, sniffling and itchy eyes have become a way of life. The major culprits? In early spring, it’s the wind-borne pollen from trees, and later on, grasses cause even more trouble. For most people, allergy symptoms are worst during hot, dry or windy days when there’s a lot of pollen and mold in the air. And while you might not be able to completely avoid allergy symptoms, you can take steps to ease the pain. Here are some tips from The Mayo Clinic.

Reduce your exposure to pollen There are several ways you can reduce your exposure to allergy triggers: Stay indoors on windy days. The best time to go outside is after a good rain, which helps to clear pollen from the air. You can also get a heads-up on out door allergens by checking the pollen forecast and air quality index in your local weather report. Delegate yard work, such as mowing the lawn, pulling weeds and other gardening chores. If you do work outside, wear a dust mask and avoid outdoor activity in the early morning when pollen counts are highest. Keep the outdoors outside by closing your windows (including car windows). Remember that your window screens cannot protect you from microscopic pollen and mould

spores. Allergens also have the annoying habit of sticking to clothing, so shower and change immediately after outdoor activities, and avoid drying sheets or clothes outside. Also, avoid tracking allergens all over your home by leaving your shoes at the door — preferably on a rubber mat that won’t trap particles and can be cleaned easily. Ban your pets from your bed or couch since pollen clings to pet fur. When pollen counts are high, consider taking your allergy medication before symptoms start.

Keep indoor air clean Here are some ways to help eliminate allergens from your home: Use the air conditioner in your house (and car). Install a micron allergy-grade filter in your ventilation system. Use a dehumidifier to help keep indoor air dry. Consider using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in your bedroom. Clean floors with a vacuum cleaner that has a small-particle or HEPA filter.

Westport Foot Clinic

Westport, Co. Mayo

Chiropodist: Martin Mc Nally Tel: 087 222 6260

And last but not least, don’t skip the spring-cleaning! If you’re allergic to dust mites, you may want to take these extra steps: Encase mattresses, box springs and pillows in allergy-proof covers. Wash sheets and blankets in water temperature of at least 130 F (54 C). Vacuum floors frequently (at least weekly). Consider replacing your carpets with laminate flooring or another hard material that won’t collect dust mites and other allergens. (This is especially important for your bedroom). Swap your old dust rag for a microfibre clothe that will trap dust better. Consider wearing gloves and a mask while doing chores that stir up dust — like vacuuming or dusting.

Medications for relief of symptoms A number of over-the-counter and prescription allergy medications can help control seasonal allergy symptoms, including: Nasal corticosteroids. Corticosteroid nasal sprays are considered an effective medication for seasonal allergies and are often prescribed for more troublesome symptoms. Antihistamines. Antihistamines help relieve itching, sneezing and runny nose for many allergy-suffers. (They are less effective for allergy-related congestion.) Decongestants. For help with congestion, these medications are available in both over-the-counter and prescription liquids, tablets and nasal sprays. Note : Always consult your doctor before taking any medications. (According to the Mayo Clinic, oral decongestants can

elevate blood pressure and worsen prostate problems.) Decongestant nasal sprays should only be used for a few days, since prolonged use can make nasal congestion worse. Other treatments for seasonal allergies include allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots), and nasal irrigation (which involves flushing out mucus and irritants from your nose with a squeeze bottle or neti pot).

Alternative therapies Some people also seek allergy relief from various herbal remedies, including extracts of the shrub butterbur, cat’s claw, choline, goldenseal, stinging nettle, belladonna and bromelain. And some claim that locally produced honey helps reduce allergic reactions by boosting the immune system. Other alternative therapies include use of probiotics, acupuncture, hypnosis and “allergy removal” programs. However, most medical experts warn there’s no solid scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of these treatments.

When to see a doctor For many allergy-sufferers, avoiding allergens and using over-thecounter medications or other treatments provide enough relief to make it through the season. But if your symptoms persist or make you extremely uncomfortable, you may need skin tests or blood tests to find out exactly what allergens trigger your symptoms. In some cases, congestion and other unpleasant symptoms could be food-allergy related rather than environmental.

Northwest Express June, 2020

KEEP YOUR HOME WARM & COSY!

Northwest Express June, 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

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

In Business Over 30 Years

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

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

WANTED FOR BREAKING • 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

LG GLASS & GLAZING SHS SCAFFOLDING

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

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.

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 June, 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 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

coyne tyreS

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

Sandy Wheelers

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

Tel/Fax: 071-9166277 • Mob: 087-2817620

APPLICATIONS FOR ALL AGRICULTURAL SHEDS CARRIED OUT

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

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.

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

TERRYS STOVES

Northwest Express June, 2020

www.terrysstoves.com

• Free Survey available • Solid Fuel Stoves • Gas Fires

VOTED COURIER COMPANY OF THE YEAR 2018

When buying a stove you need good information on the wide range that is available

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

TT’S QUARR BARRE Quality Stone Y LTD Products & Plant Hire

I will help you get the product that best suits your needs.

MULTIPURPOSE GARDEN SHEDS & GARAGES

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

All the main supports of our garages are constructed of heavy duty box section steel for strength and durability and are hot dipped galvanised for longer Life. Our Units are built to withstand the harshest weather conditions. The sheeting is hot dipped galvanised and pvc coated to the colour of your choice.

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

DG Windows & Doors Josko Partner

North West Windows Prop. Kevin Burns - Belcoo, Co. Fermanagh

Sli MacNean, Blacklion, Co. Cavan Tel: 071-9853753 • Mob: 086-3896500 Email: dgwindows@btinternet.com www.josko.com

Phone: 087-2066910 or 071-9197925

MARY’S LAUNDRY & DRY CLEANING Sligo Road, Carrick on Shannon (Beside Glancy’s Pub) Telephone: 089-4202361

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

• 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

Buy Once! Buy Right!

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.

people with energy

Email: kburns@btinernet.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 June, 2020

pick up your neW LoyaLty card inStore!

Free 12” pizza With 5 StaMpS!

any 12” pizza & chipS €7 Monday to WedneSday

chicken burger or quarter pounder & chipS €5 Monday to WedneSday

• pizza • burgerS • FiSh & chipS • kebabS Main St, coLLooney, co. SLigo teL: 071-9118010

Delivery Service available