Northwest Express by northwest express

November 2017 Issue 11 - Volume 18

A GOOD HAIR DAY AT PETER MARK No.1in the No.2 Business...

• Septic Tank Cleaning • Emergency Service Call Out • Odours Investigated • High Velocity Water Jetting • CCTV Drain Inspection • Domestic Drain Cleaning • Commercial Drain Cleaning • Man Hole Covers Replaced • Annual Maintenance Contracts

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It’s time to invest in the North West! Ballina Lions are tops in St. Muredach’s Lip-Sync Challenge

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An audience of over 800 people enjoyed a spectacular “Rivals” Lip-Sync Challenge at Ballina’s Great National Hotel on Saturday night to support facilities at St. Muredach’s College. The local Lions Club were triumphant at the end of the evening and were presented with the first prize of €1,000, kindly sponsored by Connolly Car Sales, Ballina. Pictured above are: Annette Kenny, Sean Campion, Sinead McCarthy-Nunez, Henry Bourke, Léon Fox, Derek Leonard, Pat O’Brien, Vinnie Duffy (Ballina Lions President), Tony Munnelly and Carmel Ferguson.(Photo: John O’Grady)

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HE call has come from IBEC, the group that represents Irish business. They have called for investment in the North West to become a national priority. The business group has highlighted the long-standing issue of lack of prioritisation of the region in national planning in its submission to the Draft National Planning Framework (NPF). Addressing businesses in Donegal, Ibec North West Regional Director, Terry MacNamara, said: “The Draft NPF for the country does not provide any blueprint for the future development of the North West region. Ibec North West has raised this issue over recent days with elected representatives and directly with policy-makers and we hope our efforts will not be in vain. Action must be taken now and key priorities for development of the region must be implemented to allow the North West to prosper and grow. The city-less regions should not be deprived. “The NPF must prioritise the two regional urban centres of Sligo and Letterkenny-Derry. Channelling growth to these two important urban centres would support targeted population growth and help achieve wider regional and national planning objectives. “The North West has experienced a decline in its population since 2011. Population decline has consequences for the economic base, labour market and social infrastructure of the region. Much more needs to be done in this respect to moving development and growth to the North West in a sustainable direction. “Prioritising access to the North West and enhancing connectivity within the region through the upgrading to motorway status of the N4 Sligo-Dublin and N17 TuamSligo, advancement of the A5, in addition to the improvement the N14 Letterkenny-Lifford and N15 SligoLetterkenny routes are vital to enable the region to realise its full potential. Putting in place the necessary infrastructure will allow the region to capitalise on the many advantages it has to offer including competitive employment and housing costs. “It’s time to invest in the North West and this must be reflected in any spatial development and capital investment plans for the country.”

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Northwest Express November, 2017

Ballina Chamber Choir’s seasonal Sing and Ring

T’S shaping up to be a hectic Winter season for Ballina’s talented Chamber Choir. Fresh from their performance this weekend as part of the Handel’s Messiah event at Knock Basilica they are set to stage their eagerly-awaited “Sing and Ring” Concert in Ballina Arts Centre on Wednesday, 29th November. Starting time will be 8 p.m. This year again the choir will be directed by Niamh O’Kelly and joined during the performance by the Castlebar College of Further Education Handbell Choir, in addition to the children from the Quay

National School who will be singing a medley of Christmas songs. Soloists on the night will be the choir’s own Marie Gilvarry, Elaine Fitzgerald and Leslie Herron and the audience can look forward to another solo performance from talented violinist Felicia Schneiderreit. The Chamber Choir are lucky to have so much talent on board. Tickets for concert are €12 with a charge of €5.00 for children. In case you miss the Ballina performance the choir will hold their Sing and Ring event in Castlebar’s Christchurch on Friday, 8th December.

Generous donation to Coleman Centre The Coleman Music Centre, was the location for a very special event on the October Bank Holiday last, when Dora and Monica Sherlock donated to the centre, the bronze artwork presentation given to their father flute player Roger Sherlock by TG4 as part of the Gradam Ceoil awards 2007. Roger who was born in 1932, near where the county boundaries of Mayo and Sligo meet a few miles from Gurteen at Cloonfeightrin, was one of the most famous

and influential figures in traditional music in the second half of the 20th century. Absorbing a well-established local tradition as a youth, Roger emigrated to join his brother Batty in London in 1954, quickly becoming an outstanding performer in a legendary community of Irish musicians who had come to live and work there in the post war era. He played widely in dance halls and bars for an audience eager for the music of home with ceili bands such as the

Batty Sherlock, Tina Sherlock, Dora Sherlock, Marie Queenan, Monica Sherlock and Rita Mulligan.

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Hibernian, and the Thatch as well as individuals including Vincent Griffin, Raymond Roland, Liam Farrelll and Brendan McGlinchey. In 1969, he recorded an LP with fiddle player Sean McGuire and Josephine Keegan on piano, and in 1978 a solo recording with Mary Conroy on guitar. These recordings remain among the most iconic ever made in the Irish music tradition. His elaborate and distinctive style of flute playing made him one of the key figures in the development of contemporary traditional flute playing along with fellow Connacht musician Matt Molloy. He returned to Ireland in 1996, and settled in Bettystown, Co. Meath which was the home town of his wife Mona. He was a frequent visitor to the Gurteen area, and always included a session with his brother Batty and his many admirers among the local musicians. Roger passed away in 2015. The Coleman Centre wishes to acknowledge the generosity of the Sherlock family in gifting this unique item to their collection. It will be cherished both as a tribute to one of the great names in Irish music and the tradition which inspired it. It will be placed on permanent display shortly. The photograph shows Roger’s daughter’s Dora and Monica making the presentation to Marie Queenan of the Coleman Music Centre. Also present were Rita Mulligan, sister of Roger and brother Batty and his wife Tina.

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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 November, 2017

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ARDNAREE

Facebook Marketing Book a First for Irish Market

FTER 9 years training businesses and community groups on how to use Facebook as a marketing tool, Louise McDonnell launched her first book in Ballina Library on Thursday last (9th Nov). Published by the Liffey Press, the book is called Facebook Marketing, the essential guide for Irish organisations. Said Louise: “The book is written for people that manage Facebook business and community pages and who want to reach more people, build brand awareness and drive sales”. Speaking at the launch, Louise explained that every day in Ireland there are over 2.3 million people on Facebook. That’s more than Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat combined. There are 50,000 Facebook users within a 50k radius of Ballina. 27,000 are female and 23,000 are male. 1,100 are engaged, 4,100 have birthdays in December and 170 are turning 40. She went onto say, “This presents an opportunity to businesses to get their products and

services in front of customers and potential customers. The problem is that many businesses don’t know how to use Facebook properly. They see Facebook as a place to sell rather than a place to build relationships with customers and potential customers.” McDonnell claims that her book will help businesses and community groups put a strategy in place that will get better results. She outlined that it will help page administrators come up with content ideas and understand how to maximise the number of people that they reach using proven techniques she outlines in the book. There is a comprehensive section in the book on Facebook Ads. According to McDonnell :“This is one of the most powerful tools available to businesses, but most people are only scratching the surface when it comes to understanding how to use it. Businesses can reach people based on where they live, their relationship status and interests. There are also more powerful

targeting options like remarketing to people who have visited a website or event page, watched a video and interacted with a page”. John McGee, CEO of the Local Enterprise Office, Mayo, officially launching the book, said: “For many small businesses social media has become their most important marketing tool, in many cases almost entirely replacing more traditional marketing channels. Facebook, in particular, has grown to become arguably the most relevant marketing channel of our time, offering cost-effective, efficient and innovative ways to connect with customers, develop a brand and stay ahead of the competition. But knowing how to most effectively utilise Facebook as a marketing tool is what gives businesses an edge and that’s why this book is so timely and important. Packed with strategies, tips and case studies, it is a practical and user-friendly resource, one that can bring real insight to businesses across all sectors.” The book is written in easy to understand language with lots of examples and case studies. Louise concludes: “I have written my book for people that don’t have a business or marketing background. It’s a step by step practical guide that focuses on strategy. Once businesses have a strategy they will use time more effectively and get better results.” Local businesses and community groups included in the book include Kevin Morans Butchers, Charlene Flanagan Makeup, Guna Nua Boutique, Waterpoint, Discover Enniscrone, Ballinrobe GAA, Flaunt Ballina, Mindfulness Matters and Santum Therapies Ballina. The book is on sale in bookstores nationwide as well as Amazon and the Book Depository. Louise McDonnell lives in west Sligo with her husband and two children. She is online and social media marketing expert and is passionate about delivering Facebook, SEO and Website Marketing training and coaching. She has a particular expertise in Facebook Marketing having coached and trained in excess of 2000 businesses since 2009. She works with many Irish Government Agencies and Local Enterprise Offices in the North West. She also provides corporate training to businesses all over Ireland and online coaching to business owners all over the world. Find Louise at www.LouiseMcDonnell.com, www.Facebook.com/LouiseMcDSocial, www.facebook.com/Groups/LouiseMcDon nell, www.Twitter.com/LouiseMcDSocial, Tel: 096 37777/ 087 9291125. Email: Louise@louisemcdonnell.com

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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Macra & Aurivo / Nutrias Young Farmer FOR HIRE Silage Competition Announced MAN WITH A VAN ALL TYPES OF WORK CARRIED OUT Call Now; 071-9143183 / 087-2972586

Pictured at the Plan Your Winter Feed Strategy with Aurivo and Macra na Feirme are members of Sligo Macra (l-r) Claire Walsh, IFAC Accountants; Sean Walsh, Declan O’Brien, Tracy O’Boyle, Sarah Walsh, Nessa Brennan, Sharon Corcoran, Northwest Macra Vice President and Kerrie Smyth, Aurivo Farm Commercial Specialist.

acra na Feirme in the Northwest region recently announced details of the Silage competition which will run over the next few weeks in association with Aurivo Co Op and their Nutrias brand of animal feeds and is open to young farmer members in Sligo and the Northwest. Sample bags are currently being distributed to young farmer members across the region. The bag is accompanied by a simple application form which must be returned in the envelope with the silage sample.

Samples will be tested by Aurivo in their testing Laboratory. Entrants will be contacted by Aurivo farm commercial specialists / nutritionists with their results and receive any nutrition advice that they require. A young farmer information meeting will be held in January 2018 in a central location within the Northwest region to discuss the results. At the information meeting, the young farmers with the top three silage samples will be interviewed by a judging panel and the winner will

be announced. Judging will be based on the young farmers silage sample result but also on the young farmers farming methods. This competition is open to Macra na Feirme young farmer members in the county of Sligo and across the Northwest. For further information and to get your sample bag you can contact your local Homeland store or contact Sharon Corcoran Macra na Feirme Northwest Vice President on 086 1600395.

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Exciting times as Westport House secures top-class CEO

At the announcement of Tim Husbands as new CEO of Westport House and Hotel Westport: From left: Cathal Hughes, Tim Husbands, Owen Hughes and Harry Hughes. Pic: Keith Heneghan/Phocus There was an air of expectation in Westport last week after the Hughes Group last week announced the appointment of Tim Husbands, MBE, as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Westport House and Hotel Westport. Mr. Husbands is a well-known figure who has held the position of Chief Executive of Titanic Belfast (TBL International) since 2011, an attraction which was crowned World’s Leading Tourist Attraction at the current World Travel Awards. Brothers Cathal, Owen and Harry Hughes of The Hughes Group have just completed the acquisition of the historic Westport House and estate from the Browne family and only recently Harry Hughes was named EY Entrepreneur of the Year.

Commenting on the appointment, Owen Hughes (Director, The Hughes Group) said: “This marks the beginning of an exciting new phase for Westport House and Hotel Westport. Tim Husbands brings vast tourism, capital project and industry experience and ability, and is the ideal person to build a leading, recognisable international brand and destination here in Westport. We look forward to working with him.” Tim Husbands’ previous roles include Managing Director of Belfast’s Waterfront Hall and the Ulster Hall, Head of City Events and Venues at Belfast City Council and Managing Director of the Riviera Centre in Torquay. In 2014, his services to Economic Development and Tourism were

recognised at the highest level when he was awarded an MBE by HM, The Queen. Under Mr Husbands’ leadership, Titanic Belfast has established itself on the local, national and international stage. This experience positions him perfectly to develop the Westport tourism businesses which have a development budget of €50 million. Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring, TD, stated “I wish to congratulate Tim Husbands MBE on his appointment. He has created an astonishing legacy of success in the north of this island and I look forward to him taking his talent, experience and enthusiasm to the west of Ireland. Through his involvement in Titanic Belfast, he has impacted on the lives and livelihoods of countless local people who have benefitted from the influx of visitors to Belfast and Northern Ireland”. When completed, Westport House and its 400 acre estate will be a state-of-the-art resort, complete with Museum, Conference Centre and Events Centre. The facility will cater for large and small conferences, large outdoor concerts and other events, and will be tailored as a family-friendly tourist destination. Westport House itself will be developed as a Museum House that can also cater for large, high-end conferences and weddings. Hotel Westport will double in size and other tourist-related facilities will be built using existing older buildings where possible. The objective is to attract one million tourists per annum. Mr Husbands takes up his new position in February 2018.

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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Graduating Class of 2017 Celebrates at IT Sligo

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Some of the graduating IT Sligo Engineering students from county Mayo who were celebrating last Thursday, following their Conferring ceremony. Back row (L-R): Kevin Flynn (Balla), Colin O'Kane, Kieran Kelly (Kilmaine), Tommy Kelly (Laherdane). Front row (L-R):Ryan Langan (Foxford), Adrian Judge (Ballyhaunis), Kevin Carney (Ballina), Sophie Knox (Newport), Shane Flannery (Castlebar) & Daniel Reape (Foxford).

Sophie Knox from Newport in County Mayo receives her Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degree in Mechatronics from Dr Brendan McCormack, President of IT Sligo, during Thursday's Conferring ceremony at the Institute's Knocknarea Arena.

he President of IT Sligo, Dr Brendan McCormack has encouraged the graduating class of 2017 to build their careers in the North West of Ireland and help contribute to the economic growth of the region. Dr McCormack was speaking the Institute’s annual conferring ceremonies last week. More than 1,500 new graduates received their qualifications during two days of ceremonies. Families, friends and other guests joined in the celebrations at the Knocknarea Arena in the heart of the Institute’s 72acre campus. In his conferral address for the Institute’s School of Engineering & Design, the President encouraged the new graduates to follow their passions. “I fully appreciate that many of you will take careers journeys all over the world, and there are wonderful opportunities out there,” Dr McCormack told them. “All I ask - is that you do not underestimate the quality of life, both personally and professionally, that the North West of Ireland can offer you long term. “We need young vibrant entrepreneurs to create new businesses and to contribute to the economic growth that will ensure this region remains the

best place to live in Ireland. “Whatever you do, do it with passion and integrity and do not wait for someone else to take the lead.” Over the two days of conferring, IT Sligo’s new graduates received higher education qualifications ranging from Higher Certificate to PhD, from the Institute’s three Schools of learning: Engineering & Design, Science and Business & Social Sciences. The new recipients include the first cohort of international students from Oman who first came to IT Sligo in 2012, and are being conferred this week with honours degrees in Engineering, Computing in Systems & Networking, and in Medical Biotechnology. The dedication of longserving staff member Bridie Gaughan from the Institute’s School of Business and Social Sciences was also recognised, as she was the recipient of the prestigious Corn Sheáin Mhic Mhagnais. This award was first established by former IT Sligo Chairman of the Governing Body, the late Seán McManus, and is awarded annually to recognise exceptional achievements or contributions to the Institute by an individual or group.

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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A good hair day at Peter Mark

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24 employees recognised for their contribution to Peter Mark

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TANTRIC

Elise Mulholland, Siobhan Dykes, Nicole McManus and Olivia Britton from the Sligo Salon pictured at the Peter Mark Long Service Awards which took place at, Sheraton Hotel, Athlone on Monday 6th November. Peter Mark honoured 24 of its employees from Athlone, Galway, Castlebar, Sligo, Navan and Mullingar for their long-standing service and contribution to the company.

he Peter Mark Long Service Awards took place at Sheraton Hotel and recognised employees in Athlone, Galway, Castlebar, Sligo, Navan and Mullingar who have worked at Peter Mark for 10 years or more. Further regional ceremonies are planned throughout the year and by the end of 2017, Peter Mark will have celebrated 496 employees who have been in the business for a decade or more. Of the 24 honoured today, the average length of service was 14 years but many were celebrating several years more! Noeline Curtis from Peter Mark Navan was celebrating over 30 years of service with Ireland’s best-known hairdressing brand. Collectively those honoured today have 1,209 years of

experience in the hairdressing world ranging from stylists to support staff. Peter Mark has been at the forefront of Irish hairdressing for 56 years. The first Peter Mark salon was opened by brothers Peter and Mark Keaveney in 1961 on Grafton St. Their second salon in 1964 and their third in Stillorgan in1966. Their first unisex salon opened on North Earl St in 1970 and the following year they opened their first training centre at the same location. Today there are 71 salons across the island of Ireland and the company employs more 1,700 people. Commenting Peter O’Rourke, CEO Peter Mark said: “As a business built on people, today is a really special day for us. We are delighted to celebrate our

loyal employees and recognise those who have been with us for over a decade to those who have been with our business for 25 years or more. Of everyone in the room, the average length of service is 14 years which is a massive achievement in today’s world.” “We place huge importance on attracting and retaining top talent and we have an excellent track record in this area. What makes us unique in the industry is the emphasis we put on training and continued career development. In a creative industry, such as ours, it’s important to never stand still. We run a world class training programme which ensures our team are continuously learning and upskilling throughout their career.”

Tesco stores in Leitrim raise €1,970 for Temple Street Leitrim’s Tesco stores raised over €1,970 as part of Trick or Treat for Temple Street over the recent Bank Holiday weekend. In total Tesco Ireland stores across the country raised a fantastic €102,000 as part of the fundraiser.

In all 149 stores, Tesco colleagues dressed up in a variety of costumes while they hosted Halloween parties at the front of each store with cake sales, facepainting, balloons and much more. All funds raised by Tesco

stores will go towards purchasing eight new Patient Monitors located in several critical care units across the hospital. These new monitors will support the amazing staff of Temple Street to deliver the best possible care to little patients and allow patient data to move with them if they need to be transferred. Christine Heffernan Corporate Affairs Director Tesco Ireland said: “We are really proud to have supported Trick or Treat for Temple Street and are amazed by the level of support from our colleagues and customers alike. It really shows what can be achieved when people pull together for a great cause. What a fantastic result for Temple Street.” Denise Fitzgerald, CEO of

Temple Street Fundraising said: “Once again our friends in Tesco all across the country have made an incredible effort for ‘Trick or Treat’ and have raised a spectacular €102,000 to support Temple Street. Their hard work will help us to buy vital new patient monitors that will be used around the clock by the doctors and nurses of Temple Street to watch over and treat sick children. On behalf of all the patients in Temple Street I would like to say a huge thank the customers and Tesco colleagues who helped make the event such a huge success.” Temple Street has been Tesco Ireland’s charity partner since October 2014 and to date Tesco Ireland has raised €2.9m in aid of the little heroes of Temple Street.

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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Liam, Brian and Keith in Concert at Coleman Centre Liam O’Brien

iam O’Brien, Brian O’Loughlin and Keith O’Loughlin, three of the most exciting and vibrant musicians of their generation will perform in the Coleman Music Centre, Gurteen, on Saturday 18th November at 8.30pm. Brian O’Loughlin was born and raised in the north Clare village of Corofin. From a strong musical family, he started the flute at the age of 8. At 11 years of age, he won his first All-Ireland solo title. He also had numerous AllIreland successes in the underage céilí

band competitions, being a member of the Inis Ó gCéilí Band under the direction of Padraic O’Reilly. In 2015, Brian released an album with French piper Tom Delany, accompanied by West Kerry’s Dessie Kelleher on guitar. Brian is a member of the Shandrum Ceili Band. The band released their debut album called, The Dawn, in May 2017. Keith O’Loughlin was born in Corofin, Co. Clare, an area rich in the Irish music tradition. He comes from a very musical family and started playing the

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banjo at the age of 8 under the tutelage of Marcus Moloney. He competed with success in the AllIreland Fleadh in solo, duet and trio competitions and with the Burren and Inis Óg céilí bands and groups. He is a member of the Shandrum Céilí Band who were victorious for the third year in a row at the Senior Céilí Band competition in Ennis this year and travels widely playing for concerts and céilís. Keith regularly teaches at workshops both in Ireland and abroad and he can be found playing all over Clare and at various festivals around the country throughout the year. Liam O’Brien is from MiltownMalbay.He was brought up in a very musical family. After starting on the tin whistle he later went on to take up the concertina and attended classes with Noel Hill for many years. Liam then went on to study Irish Music and Dance in UL. He has travelled the world playing and teaching. He has been all across Europe, Africa and spent the summer of 2012 touring Japan. Liam now teached concertina and banjo with the Brid O’Donohue School of Music. He was awarded the TG4 Gradam Cheoil Young Musician of the Year Award in 2017. Join us for a night of traditional music at its best.Booking and enquiries on 071 9182599 or www.colemanirishmusic.com.

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Planning Framework needs to address regional growth in a more focused way — WDC

Ian Brannigan, Acting CEO of the WDC THE Western Development Commission (WDC) has published its submission on the Draft National Planning Framework, saying it would have hoped for a “more focused document with clearer commitments”. The WDC is a statutory body promoting social and economic development in the Western Region, covering

counties Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Roscommon and Sligo. The Draft National Planning Framework (NPF), Ireland 2040 Our Plan, was published by the government in late September and the deadline for submissions to the consultation process is today (November 10). In its submission, the WDC

says there is no information as to how the plan’s 70 ‘National Policy Objectives’ will be implemented, enacted or put into policy. “The Draft is in fact quite general and aspirational and the real detail is only in the target population growth and jobs growth and in details of planning mechanisms,” reads the submission. The WDC pointed out that, apart from the cities, Dundalk is the only large town mentioned in the Draft NPF and there is no specific strategy given for any place outside the country’s five cities. Ian Brannigan, Acting CEO of the Western Development Commission (WDC), said: “While there is recognition of the weak urban structure of the North West, no place there is named as being key to the development of the region as a whole. Without such a focus it seems likely that the North West will find it more difficult to realise its potential.” The WDC’s submission also points out that: The Draft NPF implies that the objective of spatial balance should occur only after economic growth rates converge with those of other

countries. It is assumed that growth of the cities will lead to growth of their ‘city region’ but there is no explanation of how this will happen The NPF does not address specific development challenges facing regions such as the accessibility and urban structure of the North West. There is no discussion as to how developing urban areas will benefit rural ones. The WDC submission also points out that as the North West does not have a city, a single regional centre needs to be identified to perform these functions for the region. Deirdre Frost, Policy Analyst, WDC said: “This needs to be done in the NPF document and not left solely to the Regional Economic and Spatial Strategies (RSESs). Sligo is the best located centre to serve the wider region and it needs to be very clearly identified and prioritised for investment… if there is to be any chance of meeting the NPF targets.” The full Western Development Commission statement is available at:: http://www.wdc.ie/publicat ions/submissions/

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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The

Parke brings Wigs On The Green to Ballina

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Cast of Wigs on the Green (Parke Drama Group)

HERE’S going to be Wigs On The Green in Ballina on the Sat. 18th November @ 8.00pm at Ballina Arts Centre as Parke Drama Group prepares to stage the hilarious comedy from John McDonnell. Wigs On The Green, a superb comedy of yesteryear, tells the story of Betty Smith and her daughters, Kitty and Maureen. Kitty & Maureen are keen to settle down with brothers Jim & Jack Matthews much to their mother’s dismay since the lads haven’t an acre of land or a shilling between them and Betty has much grander aspirations for her daughters. But that won’t stop the lads from giving it a shot, so with the

help of the girls’ uncle Tom Bell and friend Maggie Martin they hatch a plan to sway Betty’s opinion of them. The plan starts off well but things start to unravel when the lads’ uncle, Michael Joseph Stanislaus Rooney turns up. Parke Drama Group is delighted to welcome two new actors on stage this year with Aoife Kilcawley and Heather Collins taking on the roles of Kitty and Maureen respectively; while veterans Des Gilsenan and Vincent McHale take on the roles of Jim & Jack Matthews. Also returning to the stage after a number of years in the Director’s Chair is Brid Quinn in the role of Betty Smith along with Richie Wynne as Tom Bell, Jo

Dean as Maggie Martin and Michael Maguire as Michael Joseph Stanislaus Rooney. Wigs On The Green is directed by Lizann Gorman, her first time directing a stage play but she has a wealth of experience in the world of drama, musicals and creative writing and she has brought all those talents to bear here. Wigs On The Green goes on stage in Ballina Arts Centre on Sat. 18thNovember @ 8.00pm. Tickets cost just €10.00. For more information and advance bookings log on to www.ballinaartscentre.com, call them on 096 73593 or email info@ballinaartscentre.com

Mayo’s employment growth is second lowest in State IF ever there was evidence of the imbalance in growth rates and the relative decline of rural Ireland the data from the recent Census of Population (2016) speaks for itself. Employment in Mayo grew by just 4.8% in the past five years — the second lowest growth in the State (after Sligo), and well below the national average of 11%. The share of people in the labour force, those either working or looking for work, is also notably below the national average. Mayo is one of only six counties where the labour force shrank — by 1.5% over the five years from 2011 to 2016. This compares to a national increase of 3.2%. These figures are according to a detailed analysis of the county’s labour market by the Western Development Commission (WDC), based on data from the Census of Population 2016. The data also shows that: Mayo had a total population of 130,507 in 2016, down 0.1% on 2011 figures Mayo and Donegal are the only two

counties nationally where the population declined Commuting is an important factor with more people commuting outside the county to work than those travelling to work in Mayo. The WDC analysis shows that the county has a labour force of 60,030 or 57.7% of the county’s adult population. The labour force includes both the number of people at work and those looking for work. This figure is notably below the national average of 61.9% and represents a decline of 1.5% on the previous Census, compared with 3.2% growth nationally. Mayo is also one of just six counties where the labour force shrank. Other counties in the Western Region where the labour force declined were Roscommon, Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal. The number of persons at work, at 51,439, represents 49.5% of the adult population, compared to a State average of 53.4%. Commuting is an important factor and almost 10% of those employed

commutes outside of the county for work. At 8,591, the 8.3% share of the county’s adults who are unemployed is higher than the national average of 7.9%. The number of retired in Mayo is the highest in the State, accounting for 19.3% of all adults compared to a national average of 14.5%. Pauline White, Policy Analyst with the WDC, says: “From these figures, it’s clear that Mayo has not benefitted to the same extent from the recent jobs recovery. While the situation has improved since 2011, with strong growth in manufacturing and health, other sectors such as agriculture, retail and knowledge services have not performed well. Out-migration of young people has reduced the county’s labour force and available skills. Supporting these young people to return to set up their own business — and showing potential employers that there’s an appetite to return to Mayo if jobs are available — could help stimulate growth.”

Northwest Express November, 2017

DECLAN NERNEY BRIGHT LIGHTS, BIG STAGES ... AND VINTAGE TRACTORS!

DECLAN Nerney, as they would say in the country, is in shockin’ fine form this weather. He has just released a new DVD called ‘Where’s The Party?’, his shows are packed out in every venue he performs, and his annual week-long event in Spain, ‘Hooley in the Sun’, has completely sold out months in advance. He has no intention of taking so much as a break from music, never mind retire. “You know, I was listening to the radio there the other day,” he begins, “and Ronan Collins was playing a request for Sonny Knowles, and he read out the greatest quote I ever heard. He

quoted Sonny who once said, “I retired from singing but I never retired from life,”and I just thought that was a great line. I wouldn’t have any plans to take a break or retire. If I were given 6 chances to live my life over, music would definitely be somewhere in them all.” When you talk to Declan about his childhood, it becomes clear why he can’t envisage his life without music. Some would say it’s in his blood, while others would insist that even his pulse has a musical beat to it! In fact, such was his natural leaning towards music as a child that he even taught himself how to play the guitar. “We grew up in rural Ireland – Drumlish, County Longford – and

guitars were unheard of back then; the closest you would get to one would be a picture in a book,” he laughs. “My sister was a very big pop music fan at that time and she used to buy a music magazine that would come out every week and in that there would be pieces about bands such as Gerry and The Pacemakers, The Searchers, and whoever was in the charts that week, but it would also have a lot of pictures. We’d be there looking at their guitars and even though the pictures would be in black and white, we’d be drooling and dreaming about them all day thinking about what it would be like to just see one for real, never mind actually touch one or even play one!” He adds, “There was a place in

Longford town called Denistons and it was there that I first saw an electric guitar. There was a beautiful red guitar in their window and I would still be standing there yet looking at it if my mother hadn’t pulled me away. Eventually we were able to get one, and by listening to songs on the radio, I taught myself how to play it. If a band was in town, I would watch the fella playing the lead guitar on the stage and see what he was doing. Then I would try to do the same myself when I got home. When I got into groups and bands later on, I picked up even more skills.” Most singers and musicians would be able to tell you what they would be doing had they not ventured into a career on the stage. For Big Tom, it was carpentry. For Margo, it was nursing. For Declan … well your guess would be as good as his because he has no idea whatsoever. “I honestly don’t know what would have become of me had the music career not materialised.

Music was a natural passion of mine and for some reason, I had seen a future in it at that time. I was hell bent on making it work. Then I also had the singing. I would have been singing a lot of pop songs more so than country back then. Even the rise of ABBA at that time gave me a new repertoire of songs to choose from to perform on stage! The bands back then had to be ready to play all types of music, charts, country, Irish, Clancy Brothers type of music, everything really!” When Declan was growing up, his influence was Larry Cunningham, a huge star at the time who had a profound influence on the type of music the younger generation listened to. Then of course there was the rise of the marquee dances which attracted everyone and anyone from all corners of the country. Much talk has been made recently of the current revival of the country music scene in Ireland, but having lived through the original era himself, Declan believes there is no comparison to that time.

Northwest Express November, 2017

Mike Denver Music Weekend

Saturday 18th November

Richie Remo

Friday 24th November MIKE DENVER & DECLAN NERNEY Sunday 3rd December

Robert Mizzell

Saturday 25th November MIKE DENVER & BRENDAN SHINE Sunday 26th November MIKE DENVER (3pm to 5pm)

Sunday 17th December

Saturday 23rd December

Gerry Guthrie Patrons Night

John McNicholl

Tuesday 26th December

Michael English

2018 ENTERTAINMENT

Wednesday 27th December

Patrick Feeney

Tuesday 29th December

Derek Ryan

Social Dancing Every Sunday LIVE MUSIC IN KAVANAGH’S BAR EVERY WEEKEND

McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris, Co. Mayo Call 094 93 78000 or email entertainment@mcwilliamparkhotel.ie www.mcwilliampark.ie • www.mcwilliamparkevents.ie

Northwest Express November, 2017

“In the mid-60’s, everyone went to the marquee dances in the summer months. It was wall-towall dancing in Ireland at that time.There’s a big difference between what they are calling the resurgence of country music now and what it was actually like. If you were to compare the two scenes, it would be as different as David and Goliath! Nothing compares to what it was like back then, because back then, everyone bought into the dancing scene; it was the mecca of where boy meets girl.” He adds, “Those marquees were usually set up in a field and most girls will tell you that they would go there in their high heels and by the time they were leaving, the heels would have green grass stuck to them, but it didn’t matter because the fun element and their enjoyment on the night made everything else pale by comparison. It was an exciting time. Things were a lot simpler back then, and people weren’t as difficult to please because they

didn’t have the multitude of media platforms like they have now. There was a better camaraderie back then; there was a happier strain running through the people back in the 60s and 70s, more so than there is today.” While his song, ‘Stop the World and Let Me Off’, is undoubtedly one of those rare songs that’s guaranteed to get an entire crowd of all ages up dancing, Declan says his most popular song would be ‘The Marquee in Drumlish’ simply because of the memories it brings back. “The Marquee in Drumlish” is the song that most of the fans want to hear because when I’m singing it, my own life story is wrapped up in it, but their own life story is wrapped up in it also. It takes them back to when Larry Cunningham was on stage, and everyone was all dressed up and dancing in the Arcadia Ballroom in Cork, the Fiesta Ballroom in Letterkenny, the Atlantic Ballroom in Ballylesson and so on. It’s a

Declan pictured with niece Una Healy-Foden and Daniel O’Donnell.

little window of history. People often come up to me and tell me that they listen to it and think of the people who danced to it down in Loughrea, Galway. They would all have a different story to tell. They would tell me about how eight or ten of them would be packed into a Volkswagen going off to a dance in somewhere like Rooskey - between them they would have the price of the dance - and they would all be hoping that one of the girls would meet a man with a car who would bring them all home! From that one song has come so many great stories. It has given me a great insight into what went on at that time.” A self-confessed nostalgic, it comes as no surprise to learn that Declan has a big passion for times gone by … namely in the form of vintage tractors. “Even though young fellas are fanatically crazy about the new tractors, they wouldn’t float my boat!” he laughs. “When you start

up one of the vintage tractors and bring it down the road, it automatically takes you back 35/40 years to the way things were. I have always been of the belief that you should respect where you come from and respect the people who paved the way, the ones who were there many years before you. They were great people and they worked with an awful lot less than what we have today. They had a lot more physical hardship and I’m sure they had a lot of mental hardships as well, but they never let anything phase them or fail them. It’s great to be able to live up to that and have respect for that time.” He adds, “I think it’s important to keep a little piece of yesterday in your pocket. People say you have to move on, but move on where? That’s my question! Sometimes the formula was right the first time around. Maybe it had its flaws but it was better than what’s there now, as we’re seeing in the world right now!” Heavy metal band, Metallica, may have millions of fans worldwide but few would have thought country music singer, Declan Nerney, would be one of them! “Music is a thing that makes you forget everything,” he explains. “I’m lucky that I’m a lover of all forms of music, not just country or traditional. I love jazz, soul, and even heavy metal bands such as Metallica. I was watching a programme about Deep Purple the other night. They were big back in the 70’s and they’re still going today!” Having enjoyed such an illustrious career, the golden

moments are too many to mention, but he does consider the musical success of his niece Una Healy as one of which he is extremely proud. “To see Una Healy, my niece, come along on the scene and not just do what I was doing but to surpass what I was able to do and go on to another level…it’s just brilliant! The best is yet to come for her because she’s capable of writing a very strong, very good song that would appeal to a mass of people. It’s being released bit by bit so I’m looking forward to seeing her career go from strength to strength. Una is my sister’s daughter, and we would all be a very close family. Camaraderie in the family is so important to us, and we got that when we were growing up. From there we built on it and we never lost it.” Having toured Ireland extensively over the years, it’s fair to say Declan knows every inch of the land inside out. A people person by nature, he has also come to personally know those who frequently attend his shows. This makes him even more determined to give each show his very best. “They put their trust into you for their night out and you have to deliver,” he explains. “They are working hard all week and they want a good show in return. They don’t want to be short changed. Whether there’s 10 or 10,000 in the hall, to me it’s the same thing. It makes no difference.” He then adds with a smile, “There might be 600 billion people in the world but the most important people to me are those on the dance floor when I’m on the stage.”

Northwest Express November, 2017

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Northwest Express November, 2017 Northwest Express November, 2017

ligo-Born Lisa Stanley is a familiar face to any country music fan throughout the UK and Ireland, with her beaming smile and formidable musical talent making her an indemand TV presenter and live performer alike. The star of stage and screen took some time out this month to chat to Kate Winter about life behind the scenes. You spring from country roots, don’t you, Lisa, with both your parents being well known country music performers. Can you tell me a little about them? Yes Kate, I was born into a showbiz background. My late mother was Maisie McDaniel from Sligo, who was Ireland’s first female country star. As well as performing with her own band The Fendermen, she presented the first country music TV show on R.T.E called Jamboree. She later went on to front the Nevada Showband and also the Nashville Ramblers, while at the same time presenting another TV show called Hoot-nanny. My father is Fintan Stanley, legendary accordionist from Clogherhead, Co. Louth. He’s a very well respected as a musician. He played with the Gallowglass Ceili Band in his teens, then going on to play with Dermot O’Brien and also my mother Maisie McDaniel. He now resides in Boston, Massachusetts , but still loves to come home to Ireland. You were born in County Sligo, though you’ve moved away now... Do you still feel connected to the county?

I was born and lived all my life in Sligo up until two years ago when myself and my twelve year old daughter Sofia moved to the U.K. purely because of my career with the Phil Mack Country Show which took me to the U.K. at least twice a month for filming. We now live in Wolverhampton, West Midlands in the U.K. and both myself and Sofia have settled in well. My partner Stuart comes from that area so we’ve got all his family and friends there too, and Sofia’s made lots of friends at school. It’s a very central area to live as I can be in London in just over two hours, traffic permitting! I’ve got a very busy lifestyle, between the TV presenting and doing my singing gigs as well. I travel quite a lot and sometimes I’m away from home for several days at a time which I find difficult, as I miss my daughter Sofia. But I’ve got a very supportive partner and that’s a great help. I will always consider Sligo my home as I lived there all my life. We try to get over once every couple of months if possible. Unfortunately my mum has passed away but I’ve still got extended family and friends there who I miss a lot. What’s your earliest memory of performing country music and when did you know that this would be the career for you? My earliest memory of performing country music was at the age of about ten, when my mum took me up on stage to sing with her. I was so nervous! But I didn’t really start to make a real career of singing until about the age of 19 when I joined local band Tree Tops who I

stayed with for six years. The band consisted of myself, Seamus McLaughlin and John Fowley, and we did a lot of corporate work. It was great experience for me and gave me good foundations for the stage, and I’ll always have fond memories of that time in my life. You’ve travelled to Nashville, performed with some huge country names and interviewed others over the course of your

career - can you tell us a wee story or two? I’ve been very lucky in the last few years through my career to have met some great people along the way. I’ve been to Nashville three times in the past eighteen months, and it’s such an amazing place! I’ve met and worked with David Frizzell (brother of Lefty Frizzell), Joanne Cash (sister of Johnny Cash), I’ve recorded with Max T Barnes, I’ve met George Hamilton

IV and Little Jimmy Dickens, but the highlight for me was seeing Vince Gill strumming his guitar in his dressing room backstage at the Grand Ole Opry. How did the TV gigs come about? You’ve been a regular feature on Sky’s The Phil Mack International Country Show and Keep It Country Music - what has it been like and is it hard work? I’ve been co presenting The Phil Mack International Country Show for the past five years, and Keep It Country Music for the past two years. It’s been great, as its raised my profile a lot in the country music world, especially in the U.K. where I wasn’t known at all before. I’m now branching out with my own brand new TV Show called The Lisa Stanley Show, which will feature videos of country artists from the current stars to the all time legends, with a few surprise guests along the way. The Lisa Stanley Show will start on Sky 261 on Tuesday January 26th at 4pm (also Tuesday 26th 11pm, Friday 29th 10.30pm, Saturday 30th 2pm). I’m very excited about doing my own TV show, as it’s a big venture for me, but Phil Mack has given me lots of advice so hopefully all will go ok! What are the main highs and lows of this business, for you? Going to sing in Nashville has been the highlight of my career so far, but now hosting my own TV Show probably tops that. I always thank God every day for being able to do something I love and make a living from it. Also for my daughter Sofia and my partner Stuart who make my life a lot richer too. The greatest challenge for me is being away from home for any length of time, but I guess it comes with the job so I can’t complain. If there truly is no limit and dreams can come true, what would you like to envisage the future holding for you? I would have to say to keep doing what I’m doing and to have health and happiness for my family.

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Northwest Express November, 2017

We think this could be the VERY BEST line up yet! The cream of the crop! RTE’S RONAN COLLINS is Host and Compare. RED HURLEY A living Legend of showbiz for the past 40 years. GINA FROM THE CHAMPIONS. Quite simply the biggest female vocalist of the Showband era. RONAN COLLINS sings his renowned tributes to The Great Joe Dolan, The Eurovision and much more! KEITH AND LORRAINE MCDONALD. This great Brother and Sister combination from one of the oldest musical families in Ireland. DAVE LAWLOR. A big voice, a master stage craftsman. THE CONQUERORS SHOWBAND. One of the greatest Showbands of them all and still packing them in everywhere they go. TOMMY AND JIMMY SWARBRIGG sing their Euro Songs from way and their other massive hits! And more to be announced!!! The show’s exciting finale is an ALL Cast Salute to the Showband Era. All of the stars join in for a medley of songs from the unique Showband Years! Bringing you back in time to this magical musical period. It will send you home with great memories of wonderful and never to be repeated time in Irish popular music!

MONDAY 1ST JANUARY SLIGO Hawkswell Theatre Sligo - 071 9161 526 www.hawkswell.ie

“REELING IN THE SHOWBAND YEARS” 2018

SHOW START AT 8PM AND FINISHES AT 10.45 PM

THE WELL MOATE

LIVE COUNTRY MUSIC VENUE THE MIDLANDS PREMIER COUNTRY MUSIC VENUE - Exit 6 off the M6 Thursday 16th November 10.00-1.30

PATRICK O’SULLIVAN

Saturday 2nd Dccember

THE WELL ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY

DEREK RYAN

Saturday 18th November

DJ JIMMY @9.30 - Followed by

MIKE DENVER 11.30-1.30

Friday 8th December

Saturday 9th Dccember

GERRY GUTHERIE

3 Course sit down meal, music by DJ Jimmy and John Malone. Tickets €20 all welcome

Standing proudly on the outskirts of Moate, Co. Westmeath, The Well, with it's hotel and ballroom offers over 20 luxury bedrooms and the best in Country Music, all under one roof. Located half way between Dublin & Galway, The Well is an ideal resting point between the two cities with ample parking available for tour coaches and cars.

Tel: 0906-481069 / 0906-448766 / Mobile: 087-6948827 • www.thewellmoate.com

Northwest Express November 2017

PHILOMENA BEGLEY THE UNDISPUTED QUEEN OF COUNTRY MUSIC By Tara King

here’s many who would argue that May 11th should be an annual day of celebration in the country music

calendar. After all, it was on that date that Irish country music queen, Philomena Begley, first started singing professionally. This year marks her 55th year in the business and at 75 years of age, the Tyrone legend shows no signs of hanging up her microphone any time soon. An amazing achievement for someone who started singing as a dare! Philomena laughs as she recalls the memory. “Ay, that’s right! There was a ceili in the local hall, and during the break, they always ask for someone in the audience to come up and sing a song. One night, a few of the girls there dared me to go up on stage and sing, so I did! A few days later, the lads in the band – The Old Cross Ceili Band - asked me if I would sing with them. I said yes and for the next twelve years, I was on the road with them. It did change my life, there is no doubt about that.” That fateful night would not only introduce Philomena to a lifetime career, it would also introduce her to her future husband, Tom Quinn! Married 43 years now, Philomena reveals that the handsome Tyrone boy was part of the reason she joined the band in the first place! “Tom was a local, so I knew him for a long time. I’d always had my eye on him though I don’t know if he was looking at me!” she laughs. “He was actually in the Old Cross Ceili Band before I joined them. In fact, he was probably the reason I joined them, if the truth be known!” It’s hard to imagine Philomena in a career that doesn’t involve bright lights and a stage, but had circumstances been different, her ‘stage’ would have been a hospital ward and her title would have been Nurse Begley. “I left school when I was only 15,” she explains. “I never really had many opportunities. I would have loved to have gone on to become a nurse, but at that time you could pay to go to a secondary school and my parents couldn’t afford to send any of us to secondary school, so I went to work in a hat factory in Cookstown. That’s where I got all my education and the best of education too. I loved every minute of it!” She adds, “When I started out, there were very few female singers around. There was Maisy McDaniels and Bridie Gallagher but they were before my time and they were folk singers. There was really no country singers. I wasn’t even doing country myself, I was doing ceili. When I

started off with the Old Cross Ceili Band in 1962, it was mostly ceili dancing and when there would be a break, I would sing. I would sing mostly folk and traditional songs. A couple of years later though, I heard some country music. One of the lads in the band, Mickey McNally, had a few country music records and he gave me one of Hank Williams. It was the first country music record I had ever heard! I took some songs but we had to convert them into old time waltzes and barn dances because there was no jiving back then – you weren’t allowed to jive or do any close up dancing, or anything like that! When I got into the country music, it was then that everything took off.” Anyone who thinks the golden era of Irish country music died with the demise of the dance halls, is very much mistaken. Recently, the Late Late Show dedicated an entire episode to Irish country music. It was such a phenomenal hit with viewers that there are talks of making it an annual feature. Country music shows and festivals across the country are attracting bigger crowds than ever, and the new generation of singers coming up through the ranks, such as Cliona Hagan, Nathan Carter, and Lisa McHugh, are becoming celebrities in their own right. As anyone who has been to a country music show will know, today’s performances have no shortage of LED lights and state of the art sound systems, a stark contrast to the less sophisticated set-up of the shows that were once held in carnivals and dance halls. Despite the lack of theatrics however, those dance halls were always packed to the brim. “They were great at the time,” Philomena recalls. “The crowds were massive, especially in the carnivals. You wouldn’t believe it! The marquees would be so full, they would have to take down the sides because it was so hot! There was no such thing as fancy lighting or sound systems like there is today. People were probably easier pleased back then!” Philomena’s illustrious career also included touring and performing with the great American country music star, Billie Jo Spears. Billie Jo and Philomena went on to become good friends, and in 2012, a year after Billie Jo’s death, Philomena recorded the song, ‘Tribute to Billie Jo’, in honour of her late friend and former stage partner. “Billie Jo was a wee lady but a sharp wee lady!” Philomena recalls. “She had been in bad health from the first tour I did with her about ten years ago. She had cancer, but I don’t think she wanted to know anything about it. She just went on and did the tours, and smoking the cigarettes! She was only about 4

stone weight too. No matter how bad she felt though, she always went out on stage and gave it her all. Honest to God, you’d be wondering where she got the energy from! She’d be dancing across the stage in her wee bedroom slippers. When she would come on with me to sing ‘Blanket on the Ground’, she would have these bedroom slippers on. Her slippers even had her initials on them! I had a pair with my initials on them, so when she’d wear hers, I’d throw on mine as well! That’s the kind of fun show it was! It was more of a comedy than anything! It was a great honour to play with her” Philomena adds, “Billie Jo came over for about 6 years to do music tours. I had been on them with her, but I was also on the last tour she did. She and I toured England and Scotland in May and then in December, she sadly passed away. The last time we toured, she said to me, “I don’t think I’ll be back.” I kept in touch with her, and I had been talking to her not long before she died, but she didn’t give me the impression that the end was near. Unfortunately, not long after that, she passed away.” With more than five decades of performances under her belt, Philomena still gets a buzz from the stage, “even more so now than years ago” she says. “I’m happy still that I’m here 55 years later! I’m probably one of the luckiest in the business that I can still go out and do what I love. That’s the main thing to me. It keeps me going. I’m not on any medication of any kind. I don’t do an awful lot of walking, but I think I need to take it up now in my old age!” Having garnered the admiration of both country music lovers and singers from around the world, Philomena has her pick of duet partners. So who would she love to collaborate with? “All the ones I would have chosen are probably all dead!” she laughs. “I would have been a big fan of George Jones and Merle Haggard, but they’re both gone sadly. No, I’m working with Ray Lynam at the minute and you couldn’t get any better than Ray! We’re doing a concert at the moment, and a young up-and-coming singer, Cliona Hagan, also sings at the show. She’s one to watch. She’s making great headway in country music and is getting a lot of radio plays. Cliona’s also doing a lot of big festivals which is great considering she’s only just starting out. She has everything; she’s beautiful, a great entertainer, has a great personality, and just a lovely way about her!” A mentor to many, including Nathan Carter, Philomena has no intention of closing the curtain on her own career any time soon. With

her health in good nick, and her passion for music still firing as strong as ever, she intends to tread the stage boards for as long as she can. “I will be 75 this year and I definitely have no notion of retiring, no notion whatsoever. I don’t have the responsibility of a band which means I can do my own thing. I can just go when things come up. I’m not performing every night of the week, but in saying that, I’m doing enough to keep my mind fresh. There’s a nice balance there and I’m enjoying it. I can go out and have a bit of craic on the stage and talk to the audience. I’m delighted to be able to do what I’m doing and I hope to be able to continue doing it for as long as my health doesn’t give up on me. I’m in great health at the moment, well apart from a wee touch of arthritis and the odd pain and ache that any woman of 75 would have, but nothing that would put me down just yet. Now, I

wouldn’t be fit for jumping or jiving across the stage but I’m in good health otherwise!” She adds, “I heard a man on the radio talking about retirement and he was more or less advising people not to retire. His view on it is that the day you retire is the day you start to die. I heard him talking about it on the radio one morning and I thought it was such an interesting perspective! I see it myself too with people in the music business. When they retire, they change a lot. But again, some people are different. My husband was in the band for years and he has no regrets at all about retiring! I could never retire though, I still love what I do.” With her trademark infectious laugh, she adds, “Sure who would turn it down when you’re getting work with the likes of Nathan Carter, Mike Denver, Derek Ryan and all of them young ones!”

TOM MCBRIDE

Northwest Express November, 2017

Gentle Giant of Country... at Eighty!

Big Tom and the Mainliners By Tara King

T can’t be denied, the dance halls of Ireland produced as many a great marriage as they did a great musical act. Big Tom (McBride) and his wife Rose are nothing if not living proof of both. “We were at a concert in the local hall in Castleblayney. She looked at me … and I looked at her … but she looked twice at me so I think that gave me a bit of

encouragement!” Tom reveals with a burst of laughter as he recollects the first time he and his wife laid eyes on each other. Together Tom and Rose have 4 children, one of whom has embarked upon a career in music. Their youngest, Dermot, Tom explains, is a singer with The Outlaws. Tom himself has been performing hits for over 50 years now, never failing to draw a huge crowd into any venue where he’s holding the microphone. Life could have been very

Donnacha O'Dulaing and Big Tom outside Top Rank

different for the Castleblayney man however. Had the stage not captured his attention, Tom would have set about making a livelihood out of creating wooden structures instead of songs. “I was always keen on carpentry work so I think I would probably have done that if I hadn’t become a singer,” he explains.“I tried everything before I started the music. I worked for a year and a half in London making ice cream and then I went to Jersey and picked everything from potatoes to tomatoes. I did all sorts of work!” It was during his time in Jersey that Tom developed a keen interest

Tom pictured with his wife, Rose.

in playing the guitar. In a way, it became his party piece. Eventually Tom moved back home to Ireland for good and it was following his return that some local aspiring musicians approached him about joining their group. Tom agreed and they got to work on their music, playing mostly ceilí. Like most bands, however, the group struggled to get their foot in the door, and would often play for miniscule fees, all the while building a loyal legion of fans along the way. They called themselves the Fincarn Band but were later rechristened The Mainliners. The history books of the Irish music

industry, however, will no doubt refer to them as the greatest Irish country music band. Tom explains how the name ‘The Mainliners’ came about, and rather amusingly, the issue they were then warned it would pose should they venture across the water to entertain American audiences. “When I worked in Jersey on the Channel Islands, there was a group there called The Mainliners” he begins. “I used to go and see them a lot because they were a country group and I liked their music. When I came back to Ireland, a few of the lads were starting up a band and we were looking for a name so I said,

Northwest Express November 2017 what about ‘The Mainliners’? They all agreed it was a good name. The funny thing is, we were later told that if we went to America, we would have to be careful with the band name because in America, the word ‘mainliner’ was the term used to describe a person who injected themselves! The name never did us any harm anyway!” Thanks to the enormous success of their song, Gentle Mother, in 1966, the band achieved stratospheric heights of success. Never was this more evident than in 1969 when the band played a ballroom in London. The crowds of fans turned out in force, so much so, that a number of panicked policemen were dispatched on horseback to try and carry out crowd control. Tom has played to 80,000 people in London and he has sang in front of millions of people on TV, yet ask him to name a few of his favourite stages on which to perform and without any hesitation he lists the local dance hall in Castleblayney as the number one favourite! London ranks in a close second. He explains, “We had a dance hall in Castleblayney, our local one, and that would have always been a favourite of mine to perform in. As far as playing down through the years, I suppose the Galtymore in London was one we loved to go to as well. We always got a great crowd there.” Having endured a serious health scare in 2006, Tom took a two-year break from the music circuit. A long break has often been the death knell upon which many a singer’s career has perished. Not Big Tom’s though. As soon as he returned, the fans were out in their droves to welcome him back. These days, he performs a few shows here and there throughout the year – his next show is in Mullingar on October 30th – but overall he has scaled back considerably in order to make his health the main priority. “I’m feeling good,” he tells me.“I wouldn’t run a mile or anything like that but I get up in the morning and sometimes I’ll sing a few songs at night, so I’m not keeping too bad at all!” When he’s not working, Tom tends to his collection of antique tractors. He explains his unusual hobby. “The tractors I collect now were the ones that were around when I was a young lad growing up. I always loved driving them and I always had a love for them all down through the years. I started buying one here and there, and then I started collecting them. I also enjoyed working on them. I worked on them here on the farm.” Tom adds, “I also used to love going out fishing down through the years. I don’t fish now though. I haven’t done it in a few years actually because I’m not mobile enough to walk the rivers like I used to.” Despite having been singing ‘Gentle Mother’ at shows for 50 years now, it continues to be a song he loves dearly, not to mention his overall favourite to perform. As well as being the song that propelled The Mainliners to the kind of heights that even Tom himself says he never expected, it’s also special to him for the simple reason that it was “the first song I ever learned.” Gentle Mother – like all of Tom’s songs - has been released

over the years in many forms appropriate to the era in question. His music has been played on everything from a 45RPM Single, Vinyl, cassette, VHS tape, CD, DVD and now of course, online downloads. Where once his live shows were performed in dance halls like the Ranch House in Galway, today they take place mainly in hotels. While many

musicians lament the change, and pine for the old times when music was not peppered with fads like auto-tune and X-Factor, Big Tom is far from fazed. If anything he’s intrigued by the often-intimidating kind of technology that now dominates the industry. In his distinctive Monaghan drawl, he explains his take on it. “The things that can be done

now, even by the nippers going to school … the things they can do with these new types of gadgets, like downloading songs and all sorts of tracks … well there’s an awful difference in the way things are done now compared to 50 years ago…but I don’t mind it at all. Sure isn’t it all progress?” The ‘young nippers’ may have all the technology, but no amount of i-

gadgets and music development apps will ever be a match for that natural gift found in someone like Big Tom. In fact, Mayo journalist Michael Commins summed this up perfectly in a song he penned about Tom some years ago. “He’s our hero and a legend He fills our hearts with pride There’ll never be another Like the great Big Tom McBride.”

Northwest Express November, 2017

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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Northwest Express November, 2017

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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

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

Would you like to know your tax liability before the end of the tax year? Are you tired of looking for lost expenses and invocies?

IFAC has a unique and easy solution to help you! Call Claire on 071-9167848 IFAC Branch, Collooney, Co. Sligo

MULCHRONE AGRI

Available for all your pit silage harvesting requirements for 2017 season, covering Co. Mayo and Co. Sligo. Extra Trailers available for long hauls Check out our youtube videos. Contact Pat on 0872439242

Northwest Express November, 2017

naturalhealth Fresh Wheatgrass Juice

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.

• Cleanses the Immune system and increases Alkalinity • Aids Digestion and Metabolism • Treat & Heal Skin Disorders incl. Eczema, Psoriasis & Sunburn Collect your fresh wheatgrass juice every week at: • Market Square, Castlebar every Friday 9am-4pm • IT Sligo Farmers Market every Saturday morning 9am-1pm • Livestock Exhibition Centre, Carrick on Shannon every Sunday 9am-1pm

www.juiceman.ie • info@juiceman.ie • M: 086-2596730

As this is a fresh product please call for your supplies

Simple steps to increase your feeling of wellbeing to a deeper sense of wellbeing. Stay active – Staying active doesn’t need to mean a rigorous workout routine. Take a walk, spend some time in your garden, go swimming or take up tennis with a friend. Finding an activity you like will make it easier to make it part of your life. Spark your curiosity – Learning new skills is a way for us to feel capable, gain a sense of achievement and build confidence. Stay curious and look for new opportunities to learn as you go through life – it’s never to late to learn an instrument, try a new hobby or master a new technique.

he pressures of modern life mean people are more stressed than ever before; juggling careers, health, family, finance and everything in between can take its toll if we don’t find ways to manage our stress and prioritise our wellbeing. Whether you’re navigating through a difficult time or simply trying to keep daily stresses from clouding your outlook on life, we’ve got the

simple tips and tricks you need to increase your feeling of wellbeing and stay positive whatever life throws at you. Wellbeing vs happiness Mental wellbeing is about more than just happiness. Overall wellbeing involves both the mind and body, and a deep sense of wellbeing is not just about happiness but about living in a way that’s good for us and good for others. A sense of wellbeing isn’t about eliminating all the bad things from our lives and only focusing on the

Mon-Thu 9.00 - 6.00pm Fri 9.00 - 5pm Home and hospital visits catered for Garden/Tone St, Ballina Tel: 096-72189 087-6389500 email: begley.john2@gmail.com

things that are good and easy, but rather finding some balance and having the resilience to cope with unusual or difficult situations when they arise. Many of the things we think will improve our wellbeing – wealth, more possessions, or expensive holidays – don’t actually lead to lasting improvements on our lives. Despite Ireland being richer than ever before, evidence from census and population studies show we don’t feel any happier than we did 50 years ago despite increases in wealth and access to new goods and technologies. In the last 20 years, extensive research has helped psychologists narrow down a list of five key

Westport Foot Clinic

Westport, Co. Mayo

Chiropodist: Martin Mc Nally Tel: 087 222 6260

factors that help promote a real, lasting sense of mental wellbeing in our lives. Here’s what to do: Find a connection – Loneliness is especially challenging for us as we age and our families move away or friends die. Connecting with other people is essential for our sense of wellbeing, whether it’s friends, family, community members or colleagues. Time spent developing meaningful relationships contributes

Give back – Giving of ourselves to others helps us feel part of a community and feel our lives have meaning. Giving back can be as simple as sharing a smile with a stranger, opening a door, saying thank you or sharing a kind word with a friend. Volunteering is a great way to combine giving back with a social element and often leads us to learn something new as well. Are there any causes close to your heart you could get involved with? Be mindful – Mindfulness is an important buzzword but also a great way to improve your sense of wellbeing. At its heart, it’s all about living in the present moment and appreciating what’s around you right now. Being aware of how you feel and think can help you appreciate the good things in your life and bounce back after challenging experiences.

Northwest Express November, 2017

Ballina’s Jack is back...with “L’il Orphan Annie”

Romeo and Juliet @ THE HAWKS WELL

Against a backdrop of ancient feuds and gangwarfare, an illfated young couple falls hopelessly in love, but their families are bitter enemies. In order to be together the two lovers must be prepared to risk everything. In Ballet Ireland's production, Shakespeare's tragic tale is transported from the streets of

AYO’S youngest musical Director and Producer of Kilmoremoy Kids Drama Group, 13 year old Jack Cronin, presents his second production, everyone’s favourite classic,“L’il Orphan Annie” on Sunday the 26th of November @ 4pm in the Ballina Arts Centre. Jack has chosen to donate the funds from this production to the LauraLynn Foundation, (Ireland’s only Children’s Hospice). He says: “We chose LauraLynn because we thought it was a lovely idea children raising money for children”. This children’s drama group was first founded in October 2016 by Jack Cronin, who was then aged 12. They were first called The Dernan Grove Kids Drama Group, (named after an estate in the Ballina area). They performed their Musical play “Matilda and Friends” in the Merry Monk Pub Ballina and raised €1,153.27in aid of Irish Cancer Society. Due to popular demand they performed a sellout show at the Ballina Arts Centre, all proceeds going to Culleens NS, Ballina and put on another performance to raise funds for Ballina Boxing club for which they raised over €1000. This wonderful classic story is about a fiery young orphan girl, Annie, (Rebecca Cronin), in the depths of the 1930’s. Annie is a fiery young orphan girl who must live in a miserable orphanage run by the tyrannical Miss Hannigan (Aisling Clarke). Her seemingly hopeless situation changes dramatically when she is selected to spend a short time

at the residence of the wealthy munitions industrialist, Oliver Warbucks (Ethan Howley). Quickly, she charms the hearts of the household staff and even the seemingly cold-hearted Warbucks cannot help but learn to love this wonderful girl. He decides to help Annie find her long lost parents by offering a reward if they would come to him and prove their identity. However, Miss Hannigan, her evil brother, Rooster (Usna Gaoghegan), and his wife Lily (Aimee Langan), plan to impersonate those people to get the reward for themselves. Actors: Annie- Rebecca Cronin (9), Grace-Niamh Walsh (9), Miss Hannigan-Aisling Clarke (8), Mr Warbucks-Ethan Howley (11), Lily-Aimee Langan (8), RoosterUsna Geoghegan (6) MollieCaoilfhinn Geoghegan (8) Duffy- Mollie Strogen (7) OrphansSophie Reape- (7), Aoife Farell (9) Aoife Conlon (9). Crew: Jack Cronin, Jake Fairbrother, Sonia Carlyn, Georgia Corcoran, Regina Granahan, Jack Donnelly Seamus Clarke, Ray Forde Don’t miss this great production of “Little Orphan Annie” on Sunday, 26th November 2017 @ 4pm at Ballina Arts Centre. Tickets €10 for Adults and €7 for kids Directed by Jack Cronin. Please call 096-73593 to book your ticket.

medieval Verona into the classrooms of a modern-day high school. It becomes a play within a play. The result is a ballet with a dazzling combination of passion and hatred, comedy and high tragedy. Recommended age: 8 years old and upwards. Mon 20 Nov, 7.30pm €20/15 u18s/65 family

Remembering the poets of World War 1 Ballina Arts Centre is hosting We Will Remember Them on Monday 13th November, 8pm; a remembrance for the poets of World War I. Anni Wilton-Jones and Mick Byrne will read from the work of a number of poets whose work has come to be associated with the Great War, including Wilfred Owen, Siegfried Sassoon, Francis Ledwidge, Ivor Gurney, William Hodgson, Robert Graves, Alan Seeger, Edward Thomas, John McCrae, Laurence Binyon, Isaac Rosenberg, Joyce Kilmer, Julian Grenfell, Charles Sorley and others. Admission: €5.

Moxie @ THE HAWKS WELL

Moxie’s music has a solid traditional backbone, inspired and shaped by the surrounds of the west of Ireland, but with progressive, world and jazz influences creeping in. Their heady and distinctive sound puts them at the forefront of new acoustic music from Ireland. Having built a reputation for their highly charged live performances, this home town gig is not to be missed. Sun 26 Nov, 8pm €15/7.50 u18s

Sligo International Choral Festival The 2017 Sligo International Choral Festival takes place from Friday 17th to Sunday 19th November. With seventyfive entries, twelve competitions and several fringe events, the weekend promises to be an exciting festival of choral music that will stimulate the cultural and musical tastes of participants and the wider general audience in Sligo. The opening night Gala Concert will feature Manus McGuire & Emily Flack, Harmony Federation, NoteOrious4, Ursuline College Choir, Summerhill College Choir and Mercy College Choir. This concert will take place in the Knocknarea Arena on Friday 17th November at 8.00pm. This year the Choral Festival competitions take place in the Knocknarea Arena and in the Canis Major of the Clayton Hotel. Tickets may be purchased via the Sligo International Choral Festival website: www.sligochoralfest.com or from any member of the Choral Festival Committee.

FLOOR SANDING SERVICE AVAILABLE No Mess, No Fuss! Call today for a quotation 071-9157830

Northwest Express November, 2017

GET YOUR HOME WINTER READY ONGOING SALE

ON MASSIVE QUANTITIES OF THIS YEARS

BLACK SCREENED HOPPER TURF SOLD IN VARIOUS LOADS TEL: 087-7462440

GRANGE FUELS

OIL & COAL DISTRIBUTORS • TARA QUALITY OILS • COMPETITIVE PRICES • SAME DAY DELIVERY • MAJOR CARDS ACCEPTED• ELECTRONIC METERED DELIVERIES

More Litres Per €uro than All Our Competitors - Same Day Delivery Throughout Sligo

COAL OFFERS 40kg Triple Heat 40kg Polish Doubles 40kg Premium Polish 40kg Eco Glow (Stoves)

1 Bag €15.50 €16.50 €17.50 €18.50

5 Bags €75 €80 €85 €90

Deliveries throughout Sligo, North Roscommon & East Mayo

10 Bags Like us on Facebook @ Grange €145 Fuel Oils and Coal Distributors €155 for news and special offers €165 €175

TREVOR FARRELL: 071-9173805 086-7273805 • CHRISTY MCTIERNAN: 086-7779376 • NOEL MAHON: 094-9870453 / 086-2070453

ITS TIME TO INSULATE

BER ‘A’ RATED INSULATION

• Renovations • Extensions • Attic Conversions

CALL KIERAN NOW FOR A FREE QUOTE - 087-834-3755 HOMESINSULATION@YAHOO.IE

Tel: 096-22277 Fax (096) 22655 Jerome and Eugene Hughes for all your Home Heating Oil, Tractor Diesel, Kerosene, Road Diesel, Unleaded Petrol. Tanks and Lubrication products also in stock.

Northwest Express November, 2017

FREE CLASSIFIEDS OCR Waste Management Scrap Metal Collection WE PAY CASH

CATTIVA SATINLINED CHIFFON dress and matching jacket, size 12. Turquoise with green and lavender floral print. Accessories: Feather fascinator comb; silver shoulder bag/purse; BEC diamante necklace/stud earrings; silver Lotus sandals, size 4. Suitable for any special occasion, style ideally suited to over 40s. Items originally purchased in Simones boutique, Sligo for € 1,400. Open to any reasonable offer.Contact (071) 914 1203. North Sligo area.

ITEMS FOR SALE Curtains to fit 2ft, 4ft, and 8ft. windows, five lamps center piece ceiling lights with matching wall lights, Two large floor rugs, Marble Fireplace, Base for 3 ft. bed, Bathroom suite, hand basin and Toilet Bowl, Child's buggy, Walker and child's car seat, Citroen C3 saloon car 1.1lt.petrol very good condition, 2ft interior door. Mobile 087 3366730 - Landline 071 9130110 FOR SALE 2 Gents real leather american zipper casual jackets, Brown and grey €25 eacg. Enniscrone area. Tel: 087-2250744

CLEANER AVAILABLE. EXPERIENCED. FLEXIBLE RATES. RELIABLE AND FAST. CALL KENSI ON 0838634032. MIDLANDS separated lady, early 60s, working, would like to get in touch with other ladies for nights out and chats, etc., friendship only. Ring or text 0871279479.

FOR SALE: BOOKS. Three books of local interest – The Mountains of Donegal, The Waters of Donegal, both by Daniel MacCarron; In the Wake of the Bagger, by Jack Harte. €10.00 the lot, plus postage, if required. Call: 0860812939. FOR SALE 6 ACRES 1 ROOD AND 20 PRIME AGRICULTURAL LAND Less than 2 miles from Crossmolina, building potential subject to planning, road frontage 390 feet. €65,000. Tel: 0876794492 MODEL RAILWAYS Hornby HM2000 2-train controller for sale - Sligo town new in makers box. Price new €127. asking €60 postage €8 extra. Call or text: 0870533844

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 End of Life Cars, Lorries, Trailers, Copper, Farm Machinery, Lead, Stainless Steel, Brass, Cable and Aluminium Collected or Delivered. WEIGHBRIDGE ON SITE

Other Services: Skip Hire / Plastic, Cardboard & Paper Recycling / Woodchip / Biomass Fuel / Waste Wood Telephone: 090-6630688 / Mobile: 086-8457108 info@ocrwastemanagement.com · www.ocrwastemanagement.com Permit No. WCP-MO-0658-01

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

KEENEHAN BROS

BOYLE TARMAC LTD SPECIALISTS IN ALL TYPES OF TARMACADAM (Machine spread if required)

• DRIVEWAYS • CAR PARKS • TENNIS COURTS ETC • FARMYARD ROAD TARRED • ALSO SURFACE DRESSING IE. TAR AND CHIPPINGS For quotations contact: 071-9662419 / 086-2571519 086-8388749 Email: jbroskeenehan@eircom.net

SHS SCAFFOLDING Over 20 years in business supplying throughout Sligo & North West 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.

Rathedmond Road, Finisklin, Sligo Telephone: 071-919 2011 • Wrought Iron Gates, Railings, Staircases & Balconies • Gate Automation for New and Existing Gates • Domestic and Commercial • All made to Order • Garden Furniture

Tel: 091-797891 • Mobile: 087-6371144 E: jobengr@eircom.net • www.obengineering.com Turloughmore, Co. Galway

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

General Hardware, Sliding Door Gear, uPvc Door & Window Fittings, Kitchen & Bedroom accessories Fitting Service Available

BUY ONLINE @ www.silvershardware.com

Septic Tanks & Bio-Cycles Emptied Connaught Drains - For all your environmental needs

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

Other services include: • Drains Cleaned • CCTV Drain Surveys • Grease Trap Emptying • Drain Rehabilitation

1890-904550 • 086-4113905 • www.connaughtdrains.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. Contact Martin McGloin Bunduff, Cliffoney, Co. Sligo casarcser@hotmail.com

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

Northwest Express November, 2017

WHEELIE BIN SERVICE & SKIP HIRE (All Sizes)

096-32500

Manufacturers of Commercial & Industrial Roller Shutters and Doors

Visit www.dg-upvcwindows.com

FAIRHILL

LANDSCAPING Landscaping and Property Maintenance

www.loftusrecycling.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

Building Contractors

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

Aluminium Soffit & Fascia Covering Mayo & West Sligo

Tel 096-45423 or 087-2858333

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED & CLEANED ALSO DRAIN JETTING SERVICE

We are based in County Sligo and service surrounding areas including Leitrim, Roscommon North Mayo and South Donegal. • Timber Fencing • Boundary and Retaining Walls • Kerbing • Lawn Cutting • Flowerbeds • Hedge Trimming • Weed Control • Power Washing • All property maintenance • Footpaths

Waste Collection permit no: NWCPO-12-11038-01

Contact Maurice on 086-2538169

Contact David by phoning 086 179 4350 or by email at Landcon365@gmail. • No Job too Small

Gannon Environmental Services Ltd., Creggs.

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

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

Remodels Extensions Maintenance Call Tom: 087-6786275 •C2 Reg • Insured • 30 years experience

• Domestic Garage Doors • PVC Coated Roller Garage Doors • Insulated Sectional Garage Doors • Fire Doors • Manual or Remote Automatic Gate Systems and Barriers Telephone: 090-6627907 Mob: 087-2725297 • doortec2@hotmail.com

www.fuchsialandscapes.com

• • • • •

Garden Design Remodelling & Landscaping Maintenance Contracts Domestic & Commercial Tree Surgery & more

Fetac & NPTC Certified Fully Insured

Tel: 087-7590677 • Mayo: 094-9014053 Galway 091-423740 • Meath 045-810096

Domestic & Commercial Roofing

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

• 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

H.A.H. SERVICES • Bailing • Ploughing & Re-seeding • Slurry Spreading • Digger Hire • Forest Site Clearance • Land Draining • 8 Wheel Tipper • Supplying & Fitting of Septic Tanks

TOP SOIL FOR SALE Contact Eddie on 087-8565815

Northwest Express November, 2017

Aluminium & PVC Repairs

To windows, doors and patio doors

Expert patio door repairs!

Unit 10B Old Dublin Road Business Park 071-9304960

• 1st and 2nd Fix • Kitchens • Flooring • Roofing • Decking • Wardrobes • A!c Conversions For all your carpentry needs at keen rates

• 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

Gilroy Glass Ltd Hazelwood Rd, Sligo

• Manufacturers of double glazed units to trade and retail • Replace your existing double glazed units with energy efficient units •Complete glazing service • Stockists of all types of glass

Thermal Imaging Smoke Testing Draught Testing Problem Solving CCTV Chimney Inspections

• Glass cut while you wait

Tel: 071-9145400 Fax: 071-9140132 Mobile: 087-2341 985

• 14 tonne machine hire • 18 tonne tractor and dump trailer hire • All ground works • Land Reclamation

Re-lining Re-building Stove Installation Twin wall flue specialists insurance claims processed

Tel: 087-6196013 / 085-1248560 Email: info@ballinachimneys.ie Fully Insured and Free Quotes

CLEW BAY LOG HOUSES 4 Bed House from €70,000

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

Call: 087-7408907 2 Bed House from €14,000

3 Bed House from €35,000

• Prices include double glazed windows and doors • Wall thickness 68mm, 44mm and 34mm

Contact Brian on 098-42501 or 086-8478376 or email clewbayloghouses@gmail.com

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

Northwest Express November, 2017

TERRYS STOVES www.terrysstoves.com

Furniture recovering and restoration including covering of chairs, 3 piece suites, headboards, car seats and boat seats. Hotel and Bar seating, Office furniture and other Contract / Commercial furniture. Repair of sails, tents and other outdoor gear for sports and leisure. We provide a service of Colour consultancy and Interior advice. We retail upholstery fabrics and essentials. Collection and delivery can be arranged at a small fee, depending on distance. Boradruma, Snugboro, Castlebar • Tel: 094 9023532 / 086 8350608 Open Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm • Visit us online at www.boradrumaupholstery.ie

MULTIPURPOSE GARDEN SHEDS & GARAGES TEL: 086 731 2801

COMPOST FOR SALE Pure Organic Compost Ideal Soil Enricher

• Medium Grade €3.00 each or 4 Bags for €10 • Cubic Metre Sacks Compost / Veggie Mix • Fine Grade Compost €5 per Bag Union Wood Road, Ballisodare • Can Deliver Bulk Loads Call us on 0879756455 or 0872495739

T: 096-30101 F: 096-30738 FOR ALL YOUR KITCHEN AND BEDROOM FURNISHING REQUIREMENTS Custom Made kitchens Bedrooms Offices Fitted & free Standing Furniture Sitting Room Units 3d Designs PVC Kitchens Solid Painted Kitchens No Job too big or small

NOW OPEN

AT BALLINA ROAD, CROSSMOLINA

Telephone John: 086-8324111 for a Free Quotation

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

S&S TREE SERVICES Covering all aspects of Tree Services & Surgery including:

Dangerous Tree Removal Site Clearance Overgrown Hedging Wood Chipping Fully Insured & NPTC Certified Years of Experience Call today for a FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

Tel: 087-6319-313 or 087-9640-902 094-938-0143

• Free Survey available • Solid Fuel Stoves • Gas Fires

people with energy

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: 087‐2066910 or 071‐9197925

Northwest Express November, 2017

RIGHT PRICE FIREPLACES & STOVES Bonniconlon Road, Ballina

Wastewater Treatment Systems

Check out our new website for the latest oﬀers www.rightpricefireplacesandstoves.com €200 SCRAPPAGE SCHEME ON YOUR OLD FIREPLACE AGAINST THE COST OF A NEW FIREPLACE OR STOVE

• Pre Cast Sep!c Tanks / Supplied & Fi"ed • Sep!c Tank Upgrading • Pump Sta!ons for Domes!c & Commercial use • Over 20 Years Experience • Service and Repairs to most models of Treatment System • All Groundwork Services / Machine Hire / Dumper Hire • Covering the North West

IN THE BUSINESS FOR OVER 25 YEARS

OUR PRICES WILL NOT BE BEATEN! Eﬀrinagh Village, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim Tel: 071-9623345 / 086-6073181

• Water Analysis • Water Filtration • Water Softening • Well Drilling • Pump Supplied and Fitted • Rain Water Collection & Purification • Sewage Treatment Systems

Michael 087-276-7003 / Aidan: 087-6694186 Email: Michaelegan1@eircom.net

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

ASBESTOS

BLACK SCREENED HOPPER TURF

SPECIALISTS

Sold in various size loads Also: Various Loads of Ash and Beech Timber Firewood for Sale

& Roofing Contractors

Call: 087-7462440 for delivery

M.D.S

24 Hr Emergency Service 365 Days

Maintenance & Drainage • Sewer Pipe, Drain & Gully Cleaning • Septic Tanks & Grease Traps Cleaned • Toilets, Baths, Sinks - Odours Investigated • CCTV Pipe Surveying - Pipe Laying & Repair • Manhole Covers Replaced FREE ESTIMATES - C2 REG - FULLY INSURED

F F O % 0 5 L A Z IN G

T R IP L E F O R JU

LY & AU

G US T

Cortoonmore, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon • Prop. Seamus Duffy Tel: 094-9880269 • Mob: 086-6095982

For fast efficient service call your local engineer on:

SLIGO / LEITRIM 086-8106029 MAYO / GALWAY 086-8177634 ROSCOMMON / ATHLONE 086-3946395

C2 Registered & Fully Insured

Office: 096-29986 / Fax: 096-45223

NEW SHOWROOM • NEW STOCK SAME GREAT VALUE

MJ Healy FENCING & AGRI SERVICES LTD

OPEN MON-SAT 9.30-6 and SUNDAYS & BANK HOLS 2-6

No.1in the No.2 Business... • Domestic Drain Cleaning • Emergency Service Call Out • Commercial Drain Cleaning • Man Hole Covers Replaced • Odours Investigated • High Velocity Water Jetting • Annual Maintenance Contracts • CCTV Drain Inspection

• Septic Tank Cleaning

email: wimsey@eircom.net

Contact Damien: 087 297 4842 or 071 916 8086

3 Piece Suites • Beds & Mattresses • Rugs & Pictures • Tables & Chairs • Flooring

Fencing Specialising in: • Agricultural Fencing • Residential Fencing (Electric) • Palisade / Welded Mesh All AEOS and Sheep Grant Approved Hedgecutting First class hedgecutting service available with Flail hedgecutter for contract hedgecutting, roadways and field hedges.

No Job too big or small • Free Quotation Tel: 086-6010889 • Email: michaelhealy14@yahoo.ie

LG GLASS & GLAZING • 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

Northwest Express November, 2017

ALL UPHOLSTERY WORK UNDERTAKEN RE-UPHOLSTER YOUR FURNITURE TODAY WITH TX UPHOLSTERY!

Cel eb

rating

10 Years in Bu si n

ess

Why not refresh your exis!ng suite, or furniture and upli" your home By simply changing the fabric of your exis!ng suite, you can brighten up your home, pu#ng a spring in your step.

Our services include: • Suites of furniture • Repairs • Boost sea!ng • Embroided Names • Boats • Headboards • Custom Made Beanbags • Replacement of foam in cushion Our UPHOLSTERY service creates masterpiece headboards designed to your specifica!on. We can give you an es!mate for the cost of repair of your couch. You can email us, send us a picture message or we can call out to your home.

Cashel, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon • Tel: 071-9622700 Mob: 086-3486267 Email: txupholstery@yahoo.ie • Web: www.txupholsteryservices.town.ie