2015 09 18 by Roscommon People

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SOCIAL PEOPLE

18 SEPTEMBER 2015

The Local Paper

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

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SEE PAGES 28 - 29

VOLUME: 443

He was a “lovely looking chap” who would be so well looked after in Roscommon that he wouldn’t want to return to Dublin – that was the message Castlerea woman Freda Fox had for a suitably charmed Vincent Browne this week. Freda (pictured with the renowned TV3 personality on Monday night) brought peals of laughter to the Vincent Browne People’s Debate in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town when she made a number of light-hearted remarks about the 71-yearold host. “Vincent, if you ever need a month’s respite, you should go to the Sacred Heart Hospital and you will get first-class treatment,” she said, adding that he was a “lovely looking chap” with “lovely hair.” Debate coverage on pages 18, 20 & 21. (Photograph: Andrew Fox).

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

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‘More Garda resources needed’ – Fitzmaurice Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has described as disappointing the fact that none of the 94 recruits from Garda Training College in Templemore have been assigned to this region. “The upsurge in rural crime has coincided with the closure of many rural garda stations. The presence of a locally-based rural Garda was always a big comfort to communities but in most cases that

is gone and policing from the larger urban areas means it takes Gardaí far longer to get to the scene if there is suspicious activity reported. The criminals know that they have very little chance of being caught in remote rural areas. “The Government and the Minister must take this problem seriously once and for all. We need more resources immediately.”

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No Seatbelt and Personal Injury* I was involved in a car accident a few months ago. My friend was driving his car, much too fast in my opinion, when he skidded and crashed into a wall. I was a back seat passenger in the car at the time. I was not wearing my seatbelt. My other friend who was a front seat passenger told me that he has been to his solicitor to investigate a personal injury claim for him. Does the fact that I wasn’t wearing my seatbelt prevent me from claiming for my significant injuries?

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‘Ming’ raises Sacred Heart Hospital in European Parliament ‘I thought you were here to help us…you are destroying us; you are killing us’ PUBLIC MEETING: Pages 22-23 < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, right, has said that the Government would easily be able to afford around €11 million to rebuild the Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon town, if it weren’t for the infamous bailout package. The Castlerea man said that Ireland’s health service was unsustainable because of the money owed to the EU and International Monetary Fund following Ireland’s economic crash. He said that the fact the future of the Sacred Heart Hospital was in jeopardy was an example of EUenforced decisions impacted on daily life in Ireland. Speaking in the European Par-

liament last week, Mr Flanagan said: “When it comes to the sustainability of the Irish health service, it is quite clear that is is not sustainable. “One of the reasons (why) is because we are haemorrhaging money paying for the banking system that collapsed, but we

paid the price for it and not the speculators. “€11 million is all that is needed in funding to keep the 90 residents in place at this home…that helps our health service, but we cannot afford to pay for it.” It’s estimated that €11 million would be required to rebuild the Sacred Heart Hospital, as the Health Information and Quality Authority have effectively requested. Mr Flanagan said that JeanClaude Juncker, the president of the European Commission, said recently that taxpayers would “never again pay for the greed of financial speculators”. “That is wonderful, Mr Juncker,” said Mr Flanagan. “But the reality is that people in Ireland are every day still paying for this. “And the €11 million that the people of Roscommon need…In-

stead of it going to healthcare, last year €1 billion was borrowed and destroyed and Ireland got nothing for it. “This year, €500 million will be destroyed and we will get nothing for it. “How can you have a sustainable health care system when the taxation that is paid for our health and for our education, is spent on paying back a debt that never was ours? “In 2016, we will have to pay €500 million again and burn it. Same in 2017. Same in 2018. How the hell can that be sustainable?” ‘Ming’ concluded his contribution with strong criticism of the EU. “I thought you were here to help us,” he said. “You are haemorraging us; you are destroying us; you are killing us.”

However, it is essential that you advise your solicitor that you were not wearing your seatbelt at the time of the accident. Your solicitor will advise the other side of this and then your claim will carry on as usual. The legal term for this is contributory negligence and simply means that you contributed to your injuries, but not to the actual accident itself. Your friend’s car insurers will seek to reduce your compensation claim on the basis that some of your injuries were exacerbated by reason of you not wearing your seat belt. An experienced solicitor such as a member of Byrne Carolan Cunningham Litigation Department will argue on your behalf to get the deduction reduced using medical reports and engineer’s reports. For further advice, contact Byrne Carolan Cunningham Litigation Department on 090 6478433 in confidence.

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate and Lanesborough. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

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Will Sacred Heart Hospital be included in €450m plan?

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Public meeting: Pages 22-23 < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Hopes have been raised that the future of the Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon town may be secure after the Government announced a major funding allocation for refurbishing or replacing State-run nursing homes. Junior Minister Kathleen Lynch said that €450 million had been assigned to this and for addressing facilities for people with disabilities. Health Minister Leo Varadkar had said that €500 million would be required for bringing numerous State-run nursing homes in line with health regulations. At present, the Sacred Heart Hospital falls short of regulations because of its structure and the fact many of the rooms are multi-occupancy. On Tuesday, Junior Minister Lynch did not mention any facility that she planned to upgrade, but said that she hoped all of them could be addressed. She told RTÉ: “We are talking about a priority list of 20 but, within that 20, there is an immediate priority of 11. As soon as the capital programme is approved, then we will be able to commence that process.

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Mary Cunniffe, Ann Burke, Cllr Kathleen Shanagher and Mary Hoare pictured at the meeting regarding the Sacred Heart Hospital and Care Home. Picture: Andrew Fox

“We hope that the €450 million will allow us to do everything we need to within the sector. And, if it isn’t, then we will come back and argue for more resources after that.” It’s understood, however, that the Sacred Heart Hospital does not feature prominently on the ‘priority list’, lying in 29th place. However, local Government politicians reacted positivity to Tuesday’s announcement. “I am optimistic this announcement by Minister Lynch will provide the crucial breakthrough to secure the future of the Sacred Heart,” said Deputy Frank Feighan, of Fine Gael.

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Senator John Kelly, of the Labour Party, said that he had been in contact with Junior Minister Lynch and, after their discussions, he was “pretty confident” that up to €12 million would be allocated to the Roscommon facility. Cllr. Maura Hopkins, of Fine Gael, described Tuesday’s announcement as “very positive news”. She added: “I will be working hard to ensure that the Sacred Heart Hospital receives the necessary capital funding in the region of €11 million-€13 million following the announcement of this capital funding.”

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Cynic Gal

Life in Plastic

Shelly ad M den

Heritage Site visit in Athleague Abbeygrey Fort and Monastic Site, Athleague, is the first in a series of heritage site visits that the newly-formed Athleague Fuerty Heritage Group will be hosting. It will take place on Sunday, September 27. The meeting point is the Suck Valley Angling Centre in Athleague at 2.30 pm. Transportation will be provided to the site. All are welcome to attend. Please wear weather-appropriate footwear and clothing for cross-country walking. Roscommon Cancer Support fundraiser An event called ‘Glamorous Buttons and Bows’ will take place on Sunday, September 20, in the Hodson Bay Hotel, near Athlone, from noon to 5 pm.

Roscommon Drama Festival AGM The Roscommon Drama Festival Committee AGM will take place in Gleeson’s Townhouse, The Square, Roscommon town, on Monday, September 28, at 9 pm. New members are welcome.

Morning Social Bridge in Hannon’s Hotel Hannon’s Hotel in Roscommon town will host Morning Social Bridge every Friday morning, commencing on the 2nd of October from 10 am to 1 pm. All Bridge players are very welcome.

So apparently now the world revolves around Kylie Jenner’s lips. Newsfeeds are peppered with as many Kardashian trout pouts as refugee victims and cancer survivors, and the worst thing is, they are presented as images to aspire to, or ‘life goals’. I cannot understand the willingness to go under the knife for the sake of a smoother face or bouncier boobs. This isn’t contouring, ladies; this involves scalpels and anaesthetic and robes that show your bum. However minor the risk, why do we even consider it for the sake of our vanity? It used to be only mature ladies like Sharon Osbourne getting facelifts to combat Hollywood ageism (even if the results were catastrophic) but now it is a circus where younger women are opting for the plastic treatment. The likes of Megan Fox and Heidi Montag having numerous cosmetic procedures before the age of 30 is ludicrous. These girls were stunning beforehand, so why did a medical professional not question their reliance on needles and poison for self-esteem? Tulisa Contostavlos was awarded

the prestigious and not at all sexist title of FHM’s Sexiest Woman in 2012 and two years later, she had a drastic change of face. She was likened to Michael Jackson after a cheek and lip filler procedure went awry. Did she feel compelled to self-improve, to live up to this ridiculous title? This practise of estimating a woman’s worth based on her looks is everything that is wrong with the media today; the pressure on female celebrities is insurmountable. We gasp in horror that Lisa Kudrow looks older than the fresh-faced Phoebe Buffay we know and love, but equally lambast Courteney Cox for her decision to overdose on Botox. You’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t. If you are in the public eye for more than ten years, you are inevitably going to fall victim to the shame brigade that dwell in glossy magazine land. For this reason, you can forgive the celebrity omissions of truth when the media tries to attack them for the beauty measures they were forced in to. Baby Jenner initially tried to pass her enlargements as the work of Mother Nature while Roz Purcell is still insisting she

hasn’t had her lips done despite going from naturally plump to overstuffed sausage. Actresses the world over plaster their names on a moisturiser bottle and attribute their youthful features to good genes and plenty of water. Evian might claim to help you live young but unless it’s holding up the clothes pegs behind your facelift, you cannot deny the telling sheen of a plastic visage. I’m not advocating a caveman existence where we all live in a hippie commune without razors and make-up. There is nothing wrong with a little sprucing up: pinning back some sticky-out ears or straightening some unruly teeth. But when we start altering our appearance past the point of recognition, what’s the point? Would you really prefer to look like Janice Dickinson? She’s scary, man. Stop telling women they look old. Stop buying magazines with such headlines as ‘Jen Aniston shows new wrinkle lines – is her marriage in trouble already?!’ Plastic fanatics, stop trying to erase every scrap of evidence that you’ve laughed or cried. For the record, you don’t look younger. You look like the little guy on the bike from Saw.

Read Shelly Madden exclusively in the Roscommon People every week Check out even more sarcastic ramblings from Cynic Gal at http://cynicgal.ie/.

Musical Ability Group Quiz in aid of Syrian Refugees

Roscommon Disability Support Group are pleased to announce we are forming a Musical Ability Group. Open to musicians of all ages and ability interested in playing together once a week for fun! First meeting on Wednesday, September 23, at 3 pm, at their centre in Derrane.

A Table Quiz in aid of the Syrian Refugees will be held in Mulvihill’s Pub, Castlerea on Friday 25th of September at 9 pm.

Pony display in Fourmilehouse A performance by ponies, called the Kinamara Stud Charity Event, will take place in Fourmilehouse on Sunday, September 27, from 2 pm to 8 pm. A foal parade will take place at 4 pm. The event, which will conclude with a barbecue, is a fundraiser for Roscommon MS Society and Roscommon/Mayo Hospice. For more information, call Michael J Burke on 086-2535559.

The late Luke Dolan to feature in new ﬁlm

Fundraiser for the Syrian Refugee Crisis The Ballintubber Ladies Rounders Team are hosting a Sponsored 5km Family Fun Walk on Sunday, the 27th of September at 2 pm in the Old School House in Ballintubber. This a fundraiser for the Syrian Refugee Crisis and there will be a major collection on the day. We are prioritising items such as trainers, hiking boots, wellingtons, tents, jackets, socks, candles, soap, shampoo, woolly hats, etc. These will be particularly welcome. The full list of items that are necessary are available by calling or texting Gemma on: 086-3949335 or Gail on 086-8428659. Everyone is welcome and your support for this fantastic cause will be much appreciated.

Fundraising Table Quiz in Creggs

What did they talk about?…Cllr. Eugene Murphy greets Vincent Browne at Monday night’s Debate, with Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice apparently in on the joke! Picture: Andrew Fox

A Table Quiz will be held in O’Rourke’s Bar (Mikeen’s) in Creggs this Friday night, 18th of September at 9.30 pm. Proceeds are in aid of the Ray of Sunshine organisation, which is helping young girls (aged 3-16) who are being forced into sex trafficking in Kenya. A local man, Batty Egan, will be going to Kenya to help build houses for these poor, unfortunate girls, so your support will be a huge help. Tables of four cost €20 and a great night is guaranteed. Please support.

Gardaí investigate thefts in Roscommon supermarkets

€580 raised for ‘Debra Ireland’

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Thanks to all the businesses in Roscommon town who donated prizes for the Pony Drive held on July 26th in Rhattigan’s, Kilroosky. A total of €580 was raised for ‘Debra Ireland’, genetic skin condition in children.

Gardaí are investigating two separate thefts from supermarkets in Roscommon town last week. On Thursday, September 10, at

around 10 am, two bottles of spirits were robbed from one store in the county town. A 30-year-old female has been arrested in connection with the incident. The second incident took place last

Sunday at noon in a different supermarket in the town, when some cosmetic items were stolen. A man has been questioned in relation to the incident, but no arrests have been made.

Strokestown man, Luke Dolan, who died last year at the age of 108, features in a film called Older Than Ireland that will appear in selected cinemas from September 25. The cinema in Roscommon will be amongst those showing the film. The film features 30 Irish men and women aged 100 years and over, who share with us their life’s memories, in this charming, funny and poignant film. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Alex Fegan (The Irish Pub), the film explores each centenarian’s journey, from their birth at the dawn of Irish independence to their life as a Centenarian in modern day Ireland. Older Than Ireland’s observational style offers a rare insight into the personal lives of these remarkable individuals. Mr Dolan died in Cloverhill Nursing Home, Roscommon, last November.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

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HSE ‘not planning’ to close psychiatric unit at County Hospital See report on page 15 < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The Health Service Executive have described as “totally unfounded” the suggestion that the psychiatric unit at Roscommon Hospital may close. Such fears were raised this week by Des Kavanagh, of the Psychiatric Nurses’

Association (PNA), who made wide-ranging criticisms of mental health services in Co. Roscommon. Asked to respond, a HSE spokesperson said: “We are actively engaged with the PNA in relation to all concerns and all staffing issues are addressed via local partnership that includes a PNA representative.” However, the HSE confirmed that an external review of mental health services in Roscommon “has commenced”.

Cummins to take over as Council chief on October 1st < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Ballygar man Eugene Cummins will take over as chief executive of Roscommon County Council on Thursday, October 1st, it has been confirmed. At present, he holds the same role with Monaghan County Council. But, in a speech to local councillors of the local authority last week, he said that he would resign on September 30 to commence his new job in Roscommon. Tributes were paid to Mr Cummins on his 20-month reign in Monaghan. The position in Roscommon became available after Frank Dawson’s retirement in May 2014. Subsequently, Tommy Ryan held the position on an interim basis, but Mr Cummins was recently chosen for the permanent post.

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Charlie Bird to launch art exhibition in Athleague Well-known journalist and broadcaster Charlie Bird will officially open an exhibition of paintings by Knockcroghery artist Anne Rigney at Athleague Heritage and Angling Centre on this Friday at 7.30 pm. There will also be an interlude of classical guitar music by Christopher Fry, who is a native of Roscommon. This is one of hundreds of events being held throughout Ireland and overseas on Friday to mark Culture Night. The exhibition consists of mixed media paintings, which Anne has created over the past few years. Her most recent a series is based on the River Suck. Anne has exhibited her work extensively in Ireland, and also has had shows internationally, most recently at the Stay Gallery in Downey in California. The exhibition will also be open from 2 pm to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday from 2 pm to 5 pm. Admission is free and all are welcome.

One of Anne Rigney’s paintings, named Water Music, that will feature in this weekend’s exhibition in Athleague.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

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•

Pictured at the Strokestown Agricultural Show on Saturday last were Aoife Devaney, Katie Birch and Lisa Shannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Almost 800 on waiting list at County Hospital < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A total of 787 people were on the waiting list for inpatient and day cases at Roscommon Hospital at the end of August, newly-released data has shown. Nine of these were waiting over 18 months, four between 15-18 months, 15 between 12-15 months, seven

between nine-12 months, 73 between six-nine months, 266 between three-six months, and 413 up to three months. This statistics were released by the National Treatment Purchase Fund. Health Minister Leo Varadkar said that there would no long-term waiters from the middle of this year, but numbers have risen nationally re-

cently. It was reported this week that low-performing hospitals that failed to meet the Minister’s waiting lists would have heavy fines imposed. Fines are being levied in respect of those who were on waiting lists for more than 18 months in August, The Irish Times said. On that basis, Roscommon Hospital would face penalties in respect of nine patients.

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Mr Wayne Crewe Brown, Surgeon and Medical Director with his team at Optilase

With prices from only €795 per eye, free consultations, a price match-guarantee, a life-time care guarantee, it is no surprise they enjoy a 99 % referral rate. Their experienced team of Surgeons has carried out over 30,000 laser eye surgery procedures and are leaders in their ﬁeld, in Ireland, Europe and Worldwide. The results speak for themselves, 100% of patients achieved driving standard or better, with 99.9% achieving 20/20 or better 3 months after treatment. Optilase uses only the most advanced and safest technology available, the VISX STAR S4 IR Excimer laser which is the most precise laser technology in the world, according to FDA clinical outcome results. Uniquely, at Optilase, every patient meets their surgeon prior to their day of treatment, something they insist on. This policy is aligned with the Royal College of Ophthalmologist guidelines and allows the patient to meet with their Surgeon properly and ask any further questions they might have. Former All Blacks and Munster rugby star, Doug Howlett underwent laser eye surgery at Optilase Clinic in Cork and achieved better than 20/20 vision. With an outstanding 49 tries in 62 tests,

Howlett is currently the 5th-highest try scorer in Rugby Union history and ﬁrst on the all-time highest try scorers for the All Blacks.

Mr Wayne Crewe Brown, Surgeon and Medical Director at Optilase has over 20 years’ experience and has carried out more than 30,000 laser eye proceduress so you know you’re in perfectly safe hands. “The life changing results of laser eye surgery are evident almost immediately and the most common response from our patients is always “Why didn’t I do it years ago!” and to wonder at how pain-free the experience actually is. Having been involved in laser eye surgery for over 20 years and having performed in the region of 30,000 laser eye procedures, I can comfortably say that the ﬁeld has reached a zenith of safety and predictability”, commented Crewe Brown.

Doug told us: “I really can’t believe how this has changed my life - it was easily one of the best decisions I have ever made. I woke up the next day to a whole new world and was back at light training shortly after… I just wish I had done it sooner!” Managing Director Phillip McGlade, states ‘Optilase has achieved unparalleled success in Ireland, due mainly to our belief that the patient experience is second to none. Over 99% of our patients said they’d recommend us. Our free consultation offer our clients the opportunity to learn more about our treatment while our experienced team explain the procedure further, allaying any misconceptions about laser eye surgery and helping patients make an informed decision, which is always said to be the best decision they ever made!”.

Optilase has clinics nationwide including in Gardenvale, Athlone. If you would like to ﬁnd out more contact Optilase on 1890 301 302 or visit www.optilase.com.

Call 1890 301 302 to arrange your free consultation www.optilase.com - 4 Fairview Terrace, Garden Vale, Athlone

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

Why choose Optilase Ireland’s No.1 Laser Eye Clinic World Leading Surgeons Safest and most precise technology Lifetime Care Guarantee Free Consultation

Roz Purcell Irish Model

“

My journey with Optilase was nothing short of amazing. For years, I struggled with contact lenses, trying effortlessly to ‘strike a pose’ for the camera or read from an autocue prompter when doing a TV piece – let’s just say squinting wasn’t my best look! I now have 20/20 vision and I could not be happier. Thank you so much Optilase

”

“

The procedure itself was painless and the staff was extremely professional and attentive

”

Donal Og Cusack GAA Hurler

Call 1890 301 302 to arrange your free consultation www.optilase.com - 4 Fairview Terrace, Garden Vale, Athlone

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NewsPeople

TK Maxx arrives to Athlone Towncentre

TV3 Xpose presenter, Karen Koster

After months of speculation and anticipation the opening of the TK Maxx store at Athlone Towncentre Shopping Centre has been confirmed for Thursday 17th of September at 10 am. With over 16,000 square ft. of retail space, the opening of the TK Maxx store represents the largest and most significant development for Athlone Towncentre since it opened its doors in late 2007. Spread over 2 floors adja-

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cent to the Gleeson Street entrance, the store will include extensive ladies, mens and childrens departments along with its ever-popular homeware offering. TK Maxx is renowned worldwide for delivering great value on an ever-changing selection of brand name and designer products. Shoppers can expect to enjoy savings of up to 60% on the recommended retail price of many products in store.

Speaking on behalf of Bannon, managing agents for Athlone Towncentre, Ray Geraghty said: “The opening of TK Maxx represents a major milestone for Athlone Towncentre and will further reinforce the centre’s position as the premier shopping destination in the midlands region.” Shirley Delahunt, Marketing Manager for Athlone Towncentre commented further specifically highlighting

benefit to the local economy. “This represents a huge vote of confidence not only for Athlone Towncentre but for Athlone as a whole. It continues to enhance the retail offering in Athlone and makes us a more attractive destination for customers from far and wide. “Another huge benefit is of course the creation of additional employment in the area & it is fantastic to see so many local people

joining the team in TK Maxx Athlone. People who will in turn spend their hard-earned weekly wages in a variety of other local businesses and services.” The official opening of the TK Maxx store in Athlone Towncentre will take place on Thursday 17th of September at 10 am and will be performed by the well-known TV3 Xpose presenter, Karen Koster together Westmeath GAA star Ray Connellan.

One Roof

Deirdre Donohoe, Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon who recently graduated with a Masters Degree in Dietetics from the University of Ulster in Coleraine, Derry.

Almost 40% of motorists want drivers retested

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Almost 40% of motorists in Ireland believe that drivers should not be subjected to driver retesting while a further 31% feel drivers should be periodically retested every ten years. The findings are the result of an in-depth survey by Carzone.ie of 1,404 motorists nationwide. The results also reveal that 62.5% of motorists passed their driving test at the first attempt while it took 28.5% two attempts to pass their test. Interestingly, the research shows that 87% of Irish motorists have never had any further driving instruction since passing their test. 68% of respondents surveyed revealed that they learned to drive by the age of 19. Meanwhile it took a further 21.5% up until the age of 24 until they learned. When respondents were asked who was responsible for teaching them how to drive, 41% learned via a qualified driving instructor, 30% were taught by a parent but curiously almost 13% of those surveyed claimed they were self-taught. Commenting on the findings, Warren Cray, General Manager of Carzone.ie said: “The research offers a fascinating insight into the early driving years of Irish motorists looking at how they learned to drive, what age they were and who taught them. “Acquiring this degree of insight from over 1,400 Irish motorists, many of whom are responsible for the 100 million searches we have had on the Carzone.ie website in the past year, is excellent from our point of view.”

About Carzone.ie Carzone.ie is part of AutoTrader UK, a leading multimedia group with successful operations in the UK and Ireland. Carzone.ie is Ireland’s ultimate motoring website and is a must-visit destination for Irish car buyers when looking to purchase a used car.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NewsPeople –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ADVERTORIAL ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Imagine ... perfect beginnings at Hodson Bay Hotel At Hodson Bay Hotel it is the little touches that allow us to create the perfect moments for your wedding day to mark the beginning of your life together. As your family & friends raise a glass to you, our dedicated Wedding Management Team will stand proudly by, ensuring no stone is left unturned to provide you with the perfect celebration. Hodson Bay Hotel has earned its reputation as one of Ireland’s leading wedding venues. Offering a spectacular location on the beautiful shores of Lough Ree, elegant banqueting suites, excellent food and service combined with the wealth of experience & dedication of our team, Hodson Bay Hotel will strive to create the wedding reception of your dreams. We pride ourselves on our superb cuisine and menu offering which is one of the most important aspects of any wedding reception. Our award-winning Executive Head Chef Gavin O’Rourke and his team will make sure that no attention to detail is spared when preparing sumptuous meals for you and all of your guests with

the very best of fresh local and Irish produce. We are delighted to announce our 2015 Autumn Wedding Fair which will take place on Sunday the 27th of September from 3-6 pm. Come meet our wedding team with over 22 years’ experience as one of Ireland’s top waterside wedding venues. Meet our range of exhibitors from photographers to bands, florists to videographers, and choose that perfect wedding cake! Sample our wonderful wedding

menu with a complimentary tasting where you can meet our executive head chef and his team. With live music from the amazing Gospelettes, and an evening showcase by the Bentley Boys, this is an event not to be missed! For further information on all of our wedding packages or to book your appointment for the day of the wedding fair, please contact our wedding Co-Ordinator Lisa Wykes on 090-6442000 or weddings@ hodsonbayhotel.com

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NewsPeople Simply eﬀortless.

The Tiguan. From €29,420. Driving shouldn’t be hard work. Take the wheel of our stylish compact SUV and you’ll find it an eﬀortless experience. A range of intuitive systems make your every drive safer and easier. We call it advanced technology. You’ll simply enjoy the journey.

Al Hayes Motors Ltd. Galway Road, Portumna, Co. Galway. Tel: 090 9742200 www.alhayesmotors.com Model shown for illustrative purposes only. OTR applies to Volkswagen Tiguan TFN 2.0TDI 110bhp BMT. CO 2 Emissions (g/km) - 138.

Mary Coyne celebrates her 104th birthday with member of the staff from Aras Mhathair Phoil, Castlerea. Photograph: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

‘Two incredible women with great life experiences’ Mary (104) and Bridie (101) celebrate birthdays Aras Mhathair Phoil, Community Nursing Unit in Castlerea, is delighted to have recently celebrated the incredible milestone of two centenarian birthdays with its residents, Mary Coyne and Bridie O’Connor. Mary celebrated her 104th birthday while Bridie was 101 years old. Mary celebrated her birthday accompanied by her daughter Pauline Peyton and her son Tommy. To put her birthday into context, she has closely observed, since the foundation of the State, the reign of ten Presidents. So it’s fitting that Mary is the proud recipient of the centenarian medal from two of those Presidents, her latest from President Michael D. Higgins. Bridie was also a gracious recipient of the centenarian medal from President Higgins. She celebrated her birthday with her two sons, John and Brendan, her daughters-in-law Patricia and Miriam and her grandchildren Susan and Carol. Greetings were shared with her sons Thomas in the UK and Fr. Mattie in Alabama. She also received greetings from her grandchildren Niall in Australia and Bobby and Stephen in Dublin, and from her granddaughter-in-law Yuan and great-grandchild Shane. Mary attributes her longevity to being hale and hearty and taking one day at a time. She is a very spirited lady who has amassed the

Bridie O’Connor celebrates her 101st birthday with family members. Back, left to right: Carol, Miriam, Patricia and Susan. Front, left to right: John, Bridie and Brendan. Photograph: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

knowledge and life stories only a centenarian can have. Bridie in turn attributes her long life to embracing all that is good and wholesome and keeping a good perspective on life. Bridie hails from a farming background and believes this wholesome lifestyle has helped her reach this centenarian milestone. She is a true traditionalist and a great historian. Her earliest memories are of ‘The Master’ of Killina Old School allowing her out of the classroom to see the Black in Tans pass as they “headed for

the boat leaving Ireland.” This is where her love of history was nurtured. Siobhan O’Sullivan, Temporary Area Manager, Galway & Roscommon, PCCC Services said: “We are extremely proud to celebrate two centenarian birthdays with Mary and Bridie. “Both birthdays were memorable occasions and full of fun. Residents and staff have been graced with their presence for a considerable length of time and both are incredible women with huge life experiences.”

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NewsPeople

‘Ireland can’t afford refugees’ – O’Boyle ‘Look after our own’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A prominent Land League campaigner has voiced his strong opposition to the Government’s decision to take up to 5,000 refugees from war-torn Syria. He believes that the country cannot afford to take any people in. European countries have been forced to take drastic action since images emerged recently of a three-year-old Syrian boy, named Aylan Kurdi, who drowned in a failed attempt to sail to the Greek island of Kos. Ireland has pledged to take thousands of refugees, in response to what is regarded as the worst humanitarian disaster since World War II. However, Gerry O’Boyle, of Land League West, disagrees with the stance taken by the Government. He believes that they should concentrate on the people who are homeless or in danger of eviction. “Ireland can’t afford to take in refugees at the moment because we are not in a fit financial state,” said Mr O’Boyle, a candidate in last October’s Roscommon-South Leitrim by-election. “We have a big homeless issue ourselves. People are living in hotels in Dublin. They need to sort out the mess with their own people first, and maybe down the line, we will be able to afford to take them in. “The Government are trying to impress them out in Europe, but we are actually in a worse situation ourselves.” A total of 39 repossessions were granted in Roscommon Circuit Court in the first six months of this year, and Mr O’Boyle said that more were on the cards. “There are 234 houses to be repossessed in Roscommon

Meet Catherine Macklin

between here and next March,” he said. “There are an average of four people per house, so you have nearly 1,000 people going to be made homeless in Roscommon. “There is no solution for them.” However, local Independent TD Denis Naughten said that it was correct that the Government would pledge to house thousands of refugees. “First of all, over half of the money that is going to be used to make provision for these refugees is coming from the EU,” he said. “Even coming out of the recession, we are still, relatively speaking, a wealthy country. “I don’t think, in the overall context of things, it is going to have a big impact on our resources.”

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Gerry O’Boyle speaking on the refugees’ crisis at Monday’s recording of the People’s Debate (shown on TV3 on Wednesday night) in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox

YourPhysio – now open in Roscommon Town and Ballaghaderreen Y

ourPhysio, Roscommon town, is a sister clinic to the Bradley Clinics in Carrick-on-Shannon and Longford Town and also to City Chiropractic in Galway City Centre. YourPhysio aims to provide a high level of Physiotherapy care to our patients and to give them the results and advice that they require. Primary Physiotherapist, Eimear Delaney of the Bradley Clinics is the Head Physiotherapist for YourPhysio, and Eimear oversees the care of all patients who attend any YourPhysio

Clinic, as well as providing continuous training for the Physiotherapists who treat in the YourPhysio Clinics. Gavin Horan is our Physiotherapist in Ballaghaderreen and Jennifer Downey is our resident Physio in Roscommon Town. All of our physios are registered with the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapy (ISCP). They use a variety of treatments such as dry needling, soft tissue techniques, mobilisations, sports taping and rehabilitation programmes in order to achieve best results with

their patients. YourPhysio was born from local GPs asking Dr Paul Bradley of the Bradley Clinics, to provide physiotherapy services in their clinics and over the coming months another branch of the YourPhysio clinics will be opening in the new Medical Complex in Mullingar. If you would like to schedule an appointment for one of our Physiotherapists, please contact 1890-815-684 and our reception team will assist you in making an appointment that is suitable for you.

If you would like to schedule an appointment for one of our Physiotherapists, please contact 1890-815-684

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NewsPeople

Pictured at Cruise’N for Crumlin in Kilteevan were Claire Connaughton, Oran Fallon, Martha Fallon and Margaret Gilleran. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Cruise’N for Crumlin were Áine O’Connor, Sheila Campbell, Michael Coyle, Rachel Collins, Anna Kiernan, Joan Kiernan, Glen Campbell, Jimmy Maloney and Roisín Coyle. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Cruise’N for Crumlin were Siobhan Regan, Geraldine Feeley, Karl Brennan, Antoinette Kelly, CMRF Crumlin, Eoghan Brennan, Marie Egan, Laura Glancy and Kelley Egan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Cruise’N for Crumlin were Deirdre Dolan, Rachel Collins, Sheila Campbell and Sharon Dolan McGeeney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Get Shorty; I did! But beware, my hair-raising exploits are not for everyone!

From My Kitchen Table

MIRIAM KERINS

Having only recently ‘moved over to Blondesville,’ our columnist has now changed her hair dramatically by taking a ‘short cut’ – after much soul-searching, she ﬁnally told her stylist to sharpen her scissors and get cropping, while ordering a coffee with a side order of valium (for our columnist, not the stylist)….read on… May I take this timely opportunity to apologise to all you lovely, luscious blondes for abandoning you and reverting back to my natural brunette barnet? Thanks; appreciate it. Now I know I only moved over to Blondesville a short while ago, but I was beginning to look like a cross between an aging cheerleader-in-chief and Satan’s Mistress, and so it just had to go. I don’t know readers, maybe it’s my hormones; my fiery mood swings are legendary in the People’s Republic of the Kerins’ gaff – and recently I decided a blonde, flowing mane just didn’t quite tone in with the aul hot flushes – and made a decision to have it all chopped off. Eh, now, relax the kacks there, I didn’t quite emulate screw-up fairy Twitney Spears and take a razor to it; it’s not military short but it is Pixie short. Mind you, I did do endless amounts of research before I took the plunge. In fact, it’s probably fair to say, more examination, scrutiny, exploration, in-depth analysis, soul-searching and polling of pi%&ed off friends through texts and Facebook messages and stalking family members through ‘phone calls went into my decision to have my long locks cropped into a more fashionable Pixie style than actually went into the wording of the marriage equality referendum. I kid you not! I even pestered and harassed he-who-nearly-lostthe-will-to-live as to what he thought about my tonsorial plight; ya know, just to pretend he actually had a say in the matter and got the poor man’s stock reply when discussing the thorny subject that

had become my ‘will I, won’t I, dilemma?’ which is always a cautious, “what answer would you like me to give you darling?” But the deed is now done and he says he loves it…perhaps he’s too afraid to say otherwise? Naah. You see – and female readers will agree with me here, I hope – life is an endless struggle for us girlies; full of frustrations and challenges. Life not only begins at 40, ok 50; it also begins to show at 50 but eventually you manage to find a hairstylist you can trust. Mine is a wonderful local girl who cannot only whip up a colour to complement those dark roots and liver spots; she can also do a snazzy, stylish, uber-chic Pixie cut to boot. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I loved the long blonde do; I did. However the heavy bleaching with the visible root growth, the twenty minutes of tedium it took to work the shampoo and conditioner followed by the intense hot oil treatments through it; the knots, Oh God the knots, the hour it took to section and blow dry it, the heated rollers, the GHD, the smell of burning hair and, having done all of that, the resorting to tying it up into a ponytail or an old-fashioned Gibson Girl bun with the finished result making me look like an aging, peroxide-dependent, power puff canary; a fact that occurred to me one day when I took a long, hard look at myself and my over-processed hair in the mirror and agreed that the hooker hairdo, dragged through a weed whacker finesse I’d been sporting for too long, had now passed its glory days and the cost of maintaining it was, like my former waistlength lank locks, growing by the month. “Why don’t you go for a nice bob,” texted my hair stylist No 1 daughter. “Yes mam, a nice bob,” echoed No 2 adding, unnecessarily I thought, “sure you’re too small for such a big mad head of hair and the blonde is just aging you.” The ‘too small’ I could understand, I’m merely 5” to her 5’ 10” frame, but I could have done without the catty ‘aging’ remark. And so, armed with all my courage, I took myself off to the salon and told my stylist to chop it off! Now please don’t think I’m vain or suffering from delusions of adequacy here, because I’m not. Like most women of a certain age, I often tend to

feel decidedly the opposite, inadequate, and my hair had become my security blanket, and as I felt my stylist, who’d asked me several times if I was “absolutely sure?’ cut off more than a foot of hair with a heavy plop and hold it up for me to see, even popping it into a paper bag for me to take home as a trophy, I went deathly pale, gasped out loud, put my hand over my mouth, and nearly had a panic attack. “Get a bob, you’ve enough left for a nice bob,” she hurriedly advised and that advice is what made me stop dead in my tracks. Why did everyone want me to get a ‘nice bob?’ I mean, I know I’m no spring chicken girls, but I’m hardly sitting in God’s waiting room now am I, so why would I opt for the ‘safe, sensible mammy bob option,’ as I call it. Now that is no disrespect to those lovely ladies (and men) who wear their hair in a bob, I’m sure it’s fab on you and you rock it, but you see, it’s not for me. I’m an all or nothing loony; besides, a bob would just make me look like a forehead with teeth and so I decided not to have the ‘official’ haircut of the menopausal matriarch and instead told my stylist to sharpen her scissors and get cropping, and yes, I’d have that coffee now please with a side order of Valium if she had any because if I ended up looking like a little dude I’d need something to numb the pain. However, I love my dramatic physical change and so does my adorable hubby, who excitedly declared, “you should never let your hair grow again, it’s much sexier short, I love it;” and I agree. However, even though I polled and pestered everyone, I did make the decision to channel my inner Pixie to please ME and only ME, meaning I’m thrilled with my new do. It makes me feel good and that’s what counts! I did offer to donate my hair to charity in the hope it could be used by a wig maker for those experiencing hair loss due to medical treatment or alopecia; sadly, as it had been chemically treated, as in it was toxic at this stage, it was deemed to be unsuitable. If any readers wish to follow my hairspiration and get the chop and want to donate their hair to charity, log onto www.rapunzelfoundation.com for more information.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NewsPeople HSE begin major review of Roscommon mental health services < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

major The Health Service Executive have started a mmon Rosco Co. in ces servi h healt al ment review of w, solely after a number of “specific incidents”. The revie concerns confined to this county, comes amid serious -ranging, as about psychiatric care locally. It will be wide explains. the document outlining its terms of referencessary to “The HSE has been determined that it is nece rnance gove conduct a review of the quality, safety and Galway/ the of area n mmo Rosco the of services within ment says. Roscommon Mental Health Services,” the docu part by in pted prom been has ion decis the ough “Alth considered a number of specific incidents which will be in nature as part of this review, it will also be general y and and will involve all aspects of the quality, safet ces.” An governance of Roscommon Mental Health Servi out the external team have been assembled to carryciate risk investigation, namely Brendan Mullen (assoNial Quigley director governance/risk management), Dr ley (South (South Eastern Trust, Lisburn) and Don Brad Eastern Trust, Lisburn). nts in place The team will review governance arrangeme reliable and safe ty, quali high of “to assure the delivery cts which services”. Staffing levels are among the aspe d. inise will be scrut processes The team will also review ‘risk management opriately appr and protocols’ to ensure that “incidents are reported, escalated and acted upon”. rts prepared The team will be entitled to review any repoThey will in relation to safety incidents in the service. records also be entitled to inspect HSE-run premises,s with staff. and/or documents and to conduct interview August 28, The review was due to commence on Friday, months. The and is due to complete a report within three report will be published. iatric The review has been welcomed by the Psych n. iatio Assoc es’ Nurs are going to “We are delighted to see that our concerns to be going is there and HSE, be taken on board by the the general a proper investigation,” said Des Kavanagh, secretary.

‘Roscommon’s mental health service is a joke’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The general secretary of the Psychiatric Nurses’ Association, Des Kavanagh, has described Co. Roscommon’s mental health services as “a joke”. Mr Kavanagh’s views come as the Health Service Executive commences a major review of the psychiatric services in the county. He has raised a number of concerns about the services, and raised fears that the psychiatric unit at Roscommon Hospital will close. “I actually believe that the Roscommon mental health services are the worst in Ireland,” he said. “What is there at the moment is a joke.” He said that closure of the 22bedded psychiatric unit at St Brigid’s Hospital, Ballinasloe, last year contributed to the problem. The justification given by the HSE for that move was that additional resources were being put into community services. This was in line with the HSE’s ‘Vision for Change’ document, which moves away from hospital care. But Mr Kavanagh said that these community teams were not put in place. “So we are in a situation where the acute unit in Roscommon

Hospital is under constant pressure because of the numbers seeking admission, and we don’t have the back-up teams in the community to provide services,” he said. Staffing levels were a major concern, he said. “There are huge gaps in the system down here,” said Mr Kavanagh. “In 2002, there were 112 nurses in Roscommon. Today, there are somewhere in the 60s. Huge numbers of staff have been taken out of the system. “The idea of moving from a hospital base to a community-based service was that we were going to use the staff to deliver community services. “That hasn’t happened.” Numerous other services in Co. Roscommon have been withdrawn, Mr Kavanagh said. “In years gone by, we had family therapists – not any more,” he said. “In years gone by, we had 2.5 posts in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which is highly regarded as the most modern treatment available. “We have no CBTs in Roscommon now. “We had four counsellors in addiction. It is now down to 1.5. “Everywhere you look where we had very good services, they have been either abolished or diminished.”

There have also been budgetary issues, with the annual funding assigned for running Galway/Roscommon Mental Health Service decreasing sharply over the past five years. The annual budget for 2010 was €75.83 million; this year, it is €63.72 million. “The focus of attention over the past number of years has not been about providing a service, but about saving money and transferring they money back to the exchequer,” said Mr Kavanagh. It also emerged recently that last year the Galway/Roscommon Mental Health Services sent back €6 million of its budget unspent. Mr Kavanagh said that this happened regularly in recent years. “This is the only area of the country where the amounts of money available per budget annually, have been returned to the exchequer,” he said. “Every year, money is sent back. That is reckless and irresponsible.” Why money would be sent back unspent baffles him, he said. “All I can think is that someone decided that they want to make an impression on the people in Dublin about how wonderful they are at making savings, but they should be looking at the needs of the people,” he said.

Des Kavanagh, the general secretary, PNA.

The 22-bedded psychiatric unit at Roscommon Hospital has been put under severe pressure by the closure of the Ballinasloe ward, and the lack of community teams in place, Mr Kavanagh said. However, he has raised concerns that the Roscommon unit could also face closure, and that this county would then be covered by the 45-bedded pyschiatric unit at Galway University Hospital. Asked if the Roscommon unit was in danger, Mr Kavanagh said: “Yes.The philosophy would be that, with regard to population, it is entirely possible that some of these managers would come up with the idea that all admissions would go to Galway.” However, he said that such a move would be “reckless and irresponsible”.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

COMMERCIAL RANGE 152 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 141G 2007 2006 2003 152 151 141G 131G 131 2012 2010 2009 2008 2007 2004 151 151 141G 131 2012 2011 152 142 142 141 141 131 131 131 2012 2012 2011 2011 2011 2010 2010 2009 2009 2008 2008 2007 2006 2005 151 151 141 141 132

VOLKSWAGEN RANGE PRE REG VANS Transporter 2.0 TDI 140BHP SWB DD VW Amarok 2.0TDI VW Crafter LWB H Roof 3.5 TN VW Caddy Van VW Golf 1.6TDI VAN ( Extras) VW Transporter 2.0TDI 102BHP LWB Blue VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB 84BHP VW Transporter 2.0TDI 140BHP LWB VW Crafter MWB DSL GOLF VAN RANGE VW Golf 1.6TDI Van 110BHP VW Golf 1.6 DSL Van Extras Nil Mileage VW Golf TDI Extras VW Golf Van TDI A/T VW Golf TDI Van TOURAN RANGE VW Touran 7Seater VW Touran 7 Seater TDI VW Touran 7 Seater DSL VW Touran 5 Seater DSL VW Touran 7 Seater C/L A/T VW Touran TDI 5Seater VW Touran 7 Seater VW Touran 7 Seater VW Touran 7 Seater VW Touran TDI 7 Seater VW Touran TDI 7 Seater TIGUAN RANGE VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Sports VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Life & Leisure VW Tiguan 2.0 TDI Extras Sports Model VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Sports VW Tiguan 2.0TDI VW Tiguan 20TDI TRANSPORTER RANGE VW Transporter 2.0 TDI 142 BHP SWB DD VW Transporter 2.0TDI 102BH Trendline Pack VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB VW Transporter 2.0TDI 140BHP D/D LWB VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB VW Transporter 2.0TDI Kombi 140BHP 6 Seater VW Transporter LWB 140BHP VW Transporter SWB VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB VW Transporter LWB 180BHP 4 motion D/D VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB 140BHP VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB VW Transporter LWB 2.0 140BHP VW Transporter 1.9TDI LWB VW Transporter 1.9TDI SWB VW Transporter 2.5 LWB VW Transporter 2.5TDI SWB Extras VW Transporter 2.5 TDI LWB Silver VW Transporter 2.5TDI LWB 4 motion D/D VW Transporter 1.9TDI SWB Extras VW Transporter 1.9TDI LWB VW Transporter 1.9TDI CADDY RANGE VW Caddy Maxi 2.0TDI 4 Wheel Drive VW Caddy TDI Kombi 5 Seater Comm VW Caddy TDI Maxi VW Caddy TDI VW Caddy TDI

€21,500 + VAT €32,500 + VAT €25,500+ VAT €12,600+ VAT €16,000+ VAT €19,000+ VAT €17,500+ VAT €23,500+ VAT €24,500+ VAT €16,000+VAT €15,000+ VAT €5,500+ VAT €6,000 + VAT €3,000 €29,500 €28,500 €27,500 €24,500 €26,500 €21,500 €16,950 €10,500 €9,500 €8,500 €6,000 €28,500 €27,500 €26,950 €25,500 €21,500 €19,500 €21,500 + VAT €20,000 + VAT €18,500 €20,000 + VAT €19,500 €29,500 €22,500 €16,950 €18,500 €17,000 + VAT €13,500 + VAT €14,650 + VAT €14,000 + VAT €11,500 + VAT €12,500 €9,000 + VAT €8,500 + VAT €10,000 + VAT €11,500+ VAT €6,500+VAT €5,000 + VAT €5,500 €17,500+ VAT €26,000 €12,500 + VAT €11,000 + VAT €13,950

2013 132 2012 2013 2012 2012 2011 2010 2009 2009 2008 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 151 2015 2013 2009 2007 2006 152 151 141 141 141 2013 132C 2012 2012 2012 2011 2010 2010 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 2007 2007 2007 2006 2005 2005 2005 2004 2000 2012 2011 2009 2008 2007 2007 2006 2006 2005 2005 2004

VW Caddy TDI Automatic VW Caddy 1.6 TDi 7 Seater 9 Extras) VW Caddy 1.6 TDI 7 Seater ( Extras ) VW Caddy TDI VW Caddy Maxi TDI Commercial VW Caddy Van TDI VW Caddy TDI VW Caddy TDI VW Caddy TDI VW Caddy Maxi TDI Commercial VW Caddy TDI VW Caddy Tdi Automatic VW Caddy TDI VW Caddy TDI VW Caddy TDI VW Caddy TDI CRAFTER RANGE VW Crafter 3.0 DSL SWB VW Crafter 3.5DSL H/R LWB VW Crafter 3.5 DSL MWB H/R VW Crafter LWB VW Crafter MWB TOUAREG RANGE VW Touareg 2.5TDI Passenger 5 Seater MITSUBISHI RANGE Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2DSKL Com Mitsubishi Pajero 3.0DSL Extras 5 Seater €333 Road Tax Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 4WD Commercial Mitsubishi Spacestar 1.2 5dr Extras Mitsubishi ASX 1.8 DSL Van Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2DSL Passenger Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater Mitsubishi pajero 3.2 SWB Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8DSL Mitsubishi ASX 1.8 DSl Van Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater Extras A/T Mitsubishi Colt 1.5 (7K) CZC Coupe Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL Passenger Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0TDI 7 Seater Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5 Petrol Mitsubishi Pajero Sports LWB Mitsubishi Lancer 1.3 Mitsubishi Colt 5 Dr Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL Passenger Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0DSL 7 Seater Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 Passenger 5 Seater Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater DSL 4 x 4 Mitsubishi Colt 1.5DSL Van Mitsubishi Colt 5DR Mitsubishi Grandis Petrol 7 Seater A/T Mitsubishi Pajero 3. 2LWB 7 Seater Passenger CITROEN RANGE Citroen Berlingo Van Citroen Berlingo DSL Van Citroen berlingo DSL Van Citroen Berlingo DSL Van Citroen Berlingo DSL Van Citroen C4 3 DR Citroen Berlingo DSL Van Citroen C4 Van Citroen Berlingo DSL Van Citroen Despatch Citroen Berlingo DSL Van

€14,500 €25,500 €19,500 €11,800 + VAT €11,500 + VAT €12,500 €9,000 + VAT €8,000 + VAT €9,000 €8,500 €7,500 €8,000 €6,500 €5,500 €4,500 €3,500 €24,000+ VAT €27,500 + VAT €18,500 + VAT €9,500 + VAT €6,000 + VAT €7,500 €25,000+ VAT €35,000 + VAT €22,500 + VAT €12,500 €19,900 + VAT €25,500 €25,500 €24,950 €15,500 €14,500 + VAT €18,500 €16,500 €9,500 €11,500 €11,500 €6,950 €9,500 €5,950 €5,000 €8,500 €8,500 €10,500 €6,500 €2,500 + VAT €4,500 €3,950 €3,500 €10,500 €8,500 €6,950 €6,500 €5,000 €4,500 €4,500 €4,500 €3,500 €4,000 €3,000

TRANSPORTER

2003 Citroen Berlingo 2003 Citroen Multispace 1.4 Passenger MERCEDES RANGE 141 Mercedes Vito DSl Van 2013 Mercedes Vito DSl 2010 Mercedes Vito DSL Van 2008 Mercedes Sprinter TOYOTA RANGE 2012 Toyota Auris D4D 2008 Toyota Hi Lux 3.0DSL Crew Cab 2007 Toyota RAV 4X4 2007 Toyota Prius Hybrid 1.5 A/T 2005 Toyota Landcruiser LWB 1996 Toyota Corolla Van DSL FORD RANGE 131 Ford Fiesta D4D 1.5DSL 2012 Ford Transit T260 2011 Ford Transit DSL T260 2009 Ford Transit T260 2008 Ford Galaxy DSL 7 Seater 2008 Ford Focus 1.6 DSL Van 2007 Ford Transit Connect DSL 2007 Ford Focus DSL Van 2007 Ford S Max 7 Seater 1.8 DSL 2006 Ford Transit Connect 2006 Ford Focus DSL Van 2005 Ford Transit Connect 2005 Ford transit T280 passenger DSL 2003 Ford Transit Connect T280 2003 Ford transit T260 2002 Ford Transit Connect T280 ISUZU RANGE 2000 Isuzu Trooper DSL 1999 Isuzu Trooper 3.0 DSL PEUGEOT RANGE 2012 Peugeot Partner DSL 2011 Peugeot Partner DSL Van 2010 Peugeot Partner 1.6HDI 2009 Peugeot Partner DSL Van Black 2007 Peugeot Partner DSL Van 2004 Peugeot Partner DSL Van OPEL RANGE 2013 Opel Insignia DSL 136DSL Automatic Full Leather 2011 Opel Vivaro DSL 2006 Opel Vivaro DSL 2005 Opel Vivaro DSL Com 2005 Opel Combi DSL 2003 Opel Vivaro Combi 7 Seater DSL 1999 Opel Ontara SUZUKI RANGE 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara DSL Passenger 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9DSL 2000 Suzuki Grand Vitara Dsl 2000 Suzuki Jimmy 1.3 Petrol NISSAN RANGE 2012 Nissan Qashqui 1.5 Petrol 2011 Nissan Primaster 1.9 DSL LWB Extras 2011 Nissan Note 1.5 Dsl van 2011 Nissan Qashqui 1.5 DSL (38K) 2010 Nissan Qashqui 1.5 Dsl ( Extras ) 2009 Nissan Qashqui 1.5 DSL 2008 Nissan Kubistar DSL Van 2008 Nissan Primastar LWB 2008 Nissan Quashqui 1.5DSL passenger 2008 Nissan Primaster SWB

€2,000 €2,500 €17,500 €15,000 €10,500 €8,500 €9,500+VAT €13,500 €9,500 €8,500 €8,950 €1,000 €14,500 €12,500 €11,500 €7,500 €11,500 €6,500 €5,000 €4,000+VAT €8,500 €3,500 €5,000 €4,000 €7,500 €3,000 €2,500 €2,000 €2,000 €1,500 €11,000 €9,500 €8,500 €8,000 €4,500 €2,500

2007 2007 2007 2006 2006 2005 2005 2003 141 2011 2011 2010 2008 2008 2006 2006 2004 2012 2012 2011 2011 2010 2010 2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 2004 2004 2004 2006 2005 2003 2001 2006 2005 2002

€24,500 €12,500 €4,500 €3,000 €3,000 €3,950 €2,000

2013 2009 2008 2005 2005 2004

€7,500 €6,000 €2,000 €1,000

2011 2007 2004 2000

€16,500 €11,500 €6,500 + VAT €16,500 €15,000 €11,500 €5,000 €7,500 €9,000 €6,500

141 2012 2011 2011 2008 2006 2005 2001 2000

Nissan Primaster LWB €6,500 Nissan XTrail Van Comm €5,000 Nissan Pathfinder DSL A/T €5,000 Nissan Kubistar DSL Van €4,000 Nissan Navara DSL Crew Cab (5Seater) €7,500 Nissan Primaster 1.9DSL €3,000 Nissan Xtrail 2.2 DSL Passenger €5,000 Nissan Terrano 7 Seater DSL €4,500 HYUNDAI RANGE Hyundai i30 Van €13,500 + VAT Hyundai IX35 Passenger €17,500 Hyundai i30 SW 1.6 TDI 5DR €11,500 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 passenger €16,500 Hyundai Santa Fe Passenger 7 seater €11,500 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2DSL Commercial €7,500 Hyundai Touscan 2.0DSL Passenger €6,000 Hyundai Trajet 7 seater €5,000 Hyundai Lantra 1.6 €2,000 RENAULT RANGE Renault Trafic DSL Van €13,500 Renault Laguna III 2.0DSL Dynamique DSL Extras €16,500 Renault Trafic DSL €11,500 Renault Kangoo DSL Van €8,000 Renault Trafic DSL €9,500 Renault Megane 1.5DSL Coupe €10,500 Renault Trafic DSL Van €5,000 Renault Laguna DSL Extras €5,000 Renault Master 2.7 Pick up 5 Seater €4,500 Renault Kangoo DSL Van €3,500 Renault Trafic DSL Van €4,500 Renault Master 45kms €3,500+ VAT Renault Megane 1.5 DSL Van €4,500 Renault Trafic DSL €2500 LANDROVER RANGE Landrover Discovery 3 Comm €9,000 Landrover Freelander DSL €6,000 Landrover Freelander 2.0 DSL €4,500 Landrover Freelander DSL €2,000 FIAT RANGE Fiat Scudo 1.9DSL Passenger 6 Seater €4,000 Fiat Scudo 2.0 DSL €3,500 Fiat Scudo 1.9 DSL €2,000 KIA RANGE Kia Rio DSL €11,500 Kia Sorento 2.5DSL €6,500 + VAT Kia Carnival DSL 7 Seater €8,500 Kia Sorento DSL Passenger Full Leather €5,000 Kia Sedona DSL €4,000 Kia Sedona DSL €3,500 OTHER MAKES RANGE Skoda Yeti DSL Passenger ( Ambition) €15,500 Ssangyong Kyron DSL ( Choice) €5,000 Nissan XTrail 2.2DSL Passenger €3,500 Suburu Forester 2.0DSL €2,000 BUSES RANGE VW Shuttle SWB 9 Seater €39,500 VW Shuttle 9 Seater €29,500 VW Caravelle 7 Seater Comfortline Extras 2.0TDI 140BHP €33,500 VW Sharan TDI 140BHP 7 Seater €25,500 VW Shuttle 9 Seater €15,000 VW Sharan TDI 130BHP 7 Seater €6,500 Ford Transit 9 Seater DSL Bus €7,500 VW Caravelle 9 Seater €3,000 Ford Transit 15 Seater Bus €2,000

GALWAY ROAD, PORTUMNA, CO. GALWAY. PORTUMNA: Tel.: 090 97 41390 or 090 97 42200 • TUAM: Tel. 093 26411 Email: sales@alhayesmotors.com • www.alhayesmotors.com

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

GENUINE USED CARS QUALITY USED VOLKSWAGEN VEHICLES PRE REG CARS 152 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 140BHP 4WD Automatic €36,500 151 VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline Estate €31,500 151 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline €27,500 151 VW Jetta 2.0TDI €25,000 151 VW Polo 1.4TDI €16,500 151 VW Polo 1.0 5DR petrol €16,000 151 VW Golf TDI €23,500 151 VW Golf 1.6TDI Van €16,500 + VAT 151 VW Golf 1.6TDI Highline Extras €25,500 142G VW Polo 1.2TDI T/L “0” mileage €16,950 142 VW Golf Highline TDI Sports €22,500 141 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI €25,950 141 VW Golf 1.6 TDI €19,500 141 VW Touran 1.6 TDI 7 Seater €27,500 141 VW High UP 5Dr €12,950 132 VW Golf 1.6TDI A/T €21,500 132 VW Jetta C/L A/T €22,500 132 VW Jetta 1.6 TDI Highline €21,000 132 VW Jetta 1.6TDI Trendline €18,500 132 VW Golf 1.6TDI €19,500 131 VW Polo Cross TDI Extras €16,500 132 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €13,950 132 VW Passat 1.6TDI BM €22,500 2013 VW Caddy Maxi TDI 7 Seater Extras €26,500 2013 VW Polo 1.2 TDI C/L €15,500 2013 VW Touran 1.6TDI 5 Seater €24,500 2012 VW Golf 2.0TDI 140BHP Highline €19,500 2012 VW Jetta Petrol (10K) €15,000 2011 VW Tiguan 2.0DSL Passenger €18,500 BEETLE RANGE 141 VW Beetle 1.6DSL €21,500 131 VW Beetle Sports Model 140BHP €22,500 2012 VW Beetle Sports Model 140BHp €19,500 PASSAT RANGE 151 Passat 1.6 TDI Comfortline €27,500 142 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline €24,500 142 VW Passat Tdi Comfortline Estate €28,500 141 VW Passat 1.6 BM Choice €22,500 141 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP C/L €25,500 141 VW Passat 1.6TDI “R” line €24,500 141 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline €24,500 131 VW Passat 1.6TDI “R” Line €23,000 131 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Comfortline €23,500 131 VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline €23,500 131 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €22,500 131 VW Passat 1.6TDI BM (13K) €21,500 132 VW Passat TDI Highline €24,500 132 VW Passat 1.6TDI “R” Line €24,500 2012 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €18,500 2012 VW Passat 1.6TDI T/L €17,500 2012 VW Passat C/L Petrol (10,000kms) €16,500 2012 VW Passat 2.0TDI Comfortline 140BHP €19,500 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €16,500 2011 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Sports C/L €17,500 2011 VW Passat 1.4TSI Petrol C/L €14,500 2010 VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline €13,500 2009 VW Passat 1.9TDI C/L €11,500 2009 VW Passat 2.0DSL C/L €11,500 2008 VW Passat 1.6 C/L €6,500 2008 VW Passat 2.0TDI C/L A/T €9,500 2008 VW Passat 1.9TDI Highline €9,500 2007 VW Passat 1.9TDI €7,500 2006 VW Passat 1.9TDI C/L Choice €6,500 2006 VW Passat 1.6 €4,500 2005 VW Passat 1.9TDI €5,000 2004 VW Passat 1.9TDI €4,000 PASSAT CC RANGE 142 VW Passat CC 2.0TDI Sports (9K)A/T €35,000 141 VW Passat CC Extras €35,000 2013 VW Passat CC Extras €29,500 2012 VW Passat CC Extras €22,500 2011 VW Passat CC Extras €19,500 2010 VW Passat CC Extras €18,500 POLO RANGE 151 VW Polo 1.2TDI 5Dr €16,500 151 VW Polo 1.0 5 DR €14,500 141 VW Polo 1.2TDI Comfortline €16,500 141 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €14,950 132 VW Polo TDI (33K) €15,000 132 VW Polo 1.2 Petrol €13,500 131 VW Polo 1.2TDI €14,500 131 VW Polo 1.2 TDI Cross €16,500 2012 VW Polo 1.2 5Dr Petrol €12,500 2012 VW Polo TDI €13,500 2012 VW Polo 1.2 Comfortline Petrol €12,950 2011 VW Polo 1.2TDI €12,500 2011 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €11,500 2010 VW Polo 1.6 TDI €10,500 2010 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €10,500 2009 VW Polo 1.4TDI €9,000 2009 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €8,500 2008 VW Polo 5DR €7,500 2007 VW Polo 1.4 TDI €7,000 2006 VW Polo 5DR €5,500 2005 VW Polo 1.2 5Dr €4,500 2004 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €3,500 GOLF SV MODEL RANGE 151 VW Golf TDI Highline SV 5Seater Extras €28,500 151 VW Golf TDI SV €24,500 131 VW golf 1.6TDI Plus Comfortline A/T €22,500 2012 VW Golf TDI Plus Comfortline A/T €18,500 2012 VW Golf TDI Comfortline €18,000 2011 VW Golf TDI Plus Comfortline A/T €17,500 2011 VW Golf TDI Plus €15,000 2010 VW Golf TDI Plus €13,500 2009 VW Golf TDI Plus Comfortline €11,500 2008 VW Golf TDI Plus Comfortline €9,500 2006 VW Golf TDI Plus €7,500 GOLF RANGE 151 VW Golf 1.6TDI C/L A/T Limestone Grey €24,950 151 VW Golf TDI 5Dr Highline (White) €25,500 151 VW Golf TDI 5DR T/L Sports €23,500 142 VW Golf 2.0TDI 150BHP 6Sp Highline €25,950 142 VW Golf TDI 5DR Highline Sports €23,500 141 VW Golf 1.6TDI Comfortline €22,500 141 VW Golf 1.6TDI Trendline €21,000 141 VW Golf 1.6 TDI H/L A/T €24,500 132 VW Golf 1.6TDI Automatic €22,500 131 VW Golf 1.6TDI Highline Sports Pack €22,500

131 131 131 2012 2012 2012 2011 2011 2010 2010 2010 2009 2009 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 2005 2005 2004 2003 2002 2000 151 142 141 132 131 131 131 2012 2012 2011 2010 2009 2009 2008 2008 2007 2006 131 2011 2011 2010 2009 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 2006 2006 2006 2006 2005 2005 2005 2004 2004 2003 2003 2001 151 151 142 141 131 131 131 131 2013 131 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2011 2011 2010 2010 2010 2009 2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 2005 2005 2004 2003 2002 1997 152 151 151 141 132 132 131 131 2011 2012 2009 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 2007

VW Golf 1.2 5DR Petrol VW Golf 1.6TDI 5DR VW Golf 1.2TSI Comfortline A/T VW Golf 1.6TDI 5DR VW Golf 2.0TDI 140BHP Highline VW Golf 1.6 TDI A/T Extras VW Golf 1.6TDI Highline VW Golf 1.6TDI 5Dr VW Golf 1.6TDI VW Golf 1.9TDI 3Dr Extras VW Golf 1.4 5Dr Petrol Comfortline VW Golf 1.4 5DR VW Golf GT Sport 1.9DSL Extras VW Golf 1.9TDI VW Golf 1.4 5DR VW Golf TDI 3Dr GT Sport VW Golf 1.9TDI 5DR VW Golf 1.45DR sport VW Golf 1.9TDI 5DR VW Golf GTI 2.0 200BHP Extras VW Golf 1.9TDI Comfortline VW Golf 1.4 5DR Comfortline VW Golf 1.6 Comfortline A/T VW Golf 1.4 5DR Comfortline VW Golf 1.4 5DR JETTA RANGE VW Jetta 2.0TDI Comfortline VW Jetta 1.6TDI Comfortline VW Jetta 1.6TDI H/L VW Jetta TDI Highline VW Jetta 1.6TDI Comfortline A/T VW Jetta TDI Comfortline VW Jetta 2.0TDI 140BHP 6Sp VW Jetta 1.6TDI VW Jetta T/L Petrol VW Jetta 1.6TDI VW Jetta 1.6TDI VW Jetta 1.6TDI VW Jetta Petrol C/L VW Jetta TDI VW Jetta Petrol VW Jetta TDI VW Jetta DSL AUDI RANGE Audi A6 177BHP Automatic SE Audi A3 1.6DSL Extras 3DR Audi A4 2.0TDI 143BHP Extras Audi A4 2.0DSL Extras Audi A4 2.0TDI Audi A4 2.0 TDI 143 BHP Audi A3 1.9 TDI Audi A6 2.0DSL A/T Audi A4 TDI Audi A6 TDI Extras Audi A6 3.0TDI V6 Quatro ( Auto) Audi A6 2.0TDI A6 2.0TDI Estate Audi A4 2.0TDI Audi A3 1.6 5DR Audi A3 5DR Audi A6 2.0TDI Extras (Leather) Audi A4 TDI Audi A4 TDI Audi A6 TDI Audi Quatro 2.5TDI A/T Audi A3 20TDI Audi A4TDI AUTOMATIC RANGE Mitsubishi Pajero Exect 5 Seater €333 road tax VW Golf 1.6TDI C/L A/T Limestone Grey VW Golf 1.6TDI Highline Sports Pack A/T White VW UP High 5DR A/T VW Amarok 2.0TDI 180BHP A/T Extras VW Touran 2.0TDI 140BHP 7 Seater DSG C/L VW Touran 1.6TDI C/L Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2DSL A/T 7 Seater VW Golf 1.6TDI C/L VW Jetta 1.6TDI VW Golf Plus C/L A/T VW Golf 1.6TDI H/L VW Golf 1.6TDI “R” Line VW Jetta 1.6TDI T/L VW Passat 2.0TDI Comfortline 140BHP DSG VW Jetta Petrol A/T (10K) VW Jetta 1.6TDI Highline VW Golf Plus TDI C/L VW Jetta 1.6TDI Comfortline (50K) Volvo S40 DSL Extras A/T Mercedes C200 DSL A/T Advangarde Opel Astra CDTI 5DR A/T DSL VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP A/T Comfortline VW Golf GT DSL 1.9TDI A/T VW Jetta 1.9TDI C/L VW Passat 2.0TDI A/T Fiesta 1.4 Ghia DSG (38KL) Mercedes E270 Dsl A/T Nissan Pathfinder DSL Comm A/T VW Passat DSL C/L A/T VW Golf 1.6 C/L Mercedes Ml 270 DSL A/T Nissan Micra 1.0 A/T 7 SEATER RANGE VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater VW Touran TDI 7Seater Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 Exec 5 Seater Comm VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater VW Caddy TDI Maxi 7 Seater extras Opel Zafari DSL 7Seater Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 DSl A/T 7 Seater VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 seater VW Sharan 2.0TDI 7Seater VW Caddy TDI Maxi 7 Seater extras VW Touran 1.6 DSL 7 Seater Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0TDI 7Seater (Leather) Kia Carnival DSL 7Seater VW Touran TDI 7 Seater Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL 7 seater Ford Galaxy DSL 7 Seater Opel Zafari DSL VW Sharan 1.9TDI 7 Seater Ford S Max 1.8 DSL 7 Seater

€17,500 €19,500 €21,500 €18,500 €19,500 €19,500 €16,500 €15,000 €13,500 €13,000 €11,500 €9,500 €11,500 €10,500 €9,500 €10,500 €7,500 €6,500 €6,000 €6,000 €6,000 €4,500 €3,500 €2,500 €2,500 €22,500 €21,000 €22,000 €19,500 €19,500 €19,000 €22,500 €18,500 €15,000 €15,000 €13,500 €11,500 €9,500 €9,500 €7,500 €6,500 €5,000 €33,500 €16,500 €20,500 €16,500 €14,500 €12,500 €11,750 €12,500 €8,500 €9,500 €6,500 €7,500 €7,500 €6,500 €6,500 €5,500 €6,000 €6,000 €5,000 €5,000 €4,500 €4,500 €3,000 €35,000 + VAT €24,950 €24,500 €13,950 €26,500+VAT €27,500 €26,500 €31,000 €22,500 €19,500 €18,500 €21,000 €19,500 €18,500 €19,500 €16,500 €18,500 €16,500 €14,500 €14,500 €18,950 €8,500 €10,500 €10,500 €8,000 €6,500 €6,000 €4,500 €5,000 €4,500 €3,500 €3,500 €1,350 €29,500 €28,500 €40,000 + VAT €26,500 €27,500 €19,500 €31,000 €24,500 €24,500 €22,500 €10,500 €10,500 €8,500 €9,500 €11,500 €11,500 €8,000 €6,500 €9,000

2006 2006 2006 2006 2005 2005 2005 2004 2004 2004 2004 151 142 2011 2011 2009 2008 2007 2002 2005 2002 2011 131 2008 2007 2007 2006 2006 2005 2002 2002 141 131 131 2011 2008 2008 2006 2003 2002 2001 2009 2007 2007 2007 2002 131 2011 2011 2010 2009 2008 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 2006 2006 2006 2005 2005 2005 2004 2012 2011 2011 2011 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2007 2007 2007 2007 2006 2006 2005 2005 2005 2005 1997 132 131 131 2011 2010 2010 2009 2008 2007 2007 2007 2007 2006 2006 2005 2004 2003 2003 2012 2009 2009 2009 2008 2008 2008 2007 2006

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Saturday A few men – for it will mostly have been men – might just have dropped a hint in the last few days about “the two of us having a weekend away” in the New Year. What a lovely thought! Possible locations would include Kerry (“it’s magical”), Cork (“hard to beat”) and Donegal (“just beautiful, and so peaceful”). If these venues, er…I mean locations, just happen to be hosting Roscommon matches in the 2016 National Football League, sure that’s a very happy coincidence. The texts did the rounds very speedily on Saturday evening; the fixtures for the National Football League Division One campaign had been drawn up. We’re back in the big time; back in Division One for the first time in years. And we’re in truly exalted company; each of our seven matches will be against either a glamour county or a modern-day force in the game (in some cases, both). Reading the fixtures sent a shiver down the spine. Where are the league points going to come from to ensure Roscommon’s survival in the big league? Suddenly, now that the details of where and when Roscommon will be in action had been revealed, this top tier looked even more imposing than previously. Scrolling up and down and digesting the content of the text, it felt like Roscommon were being invited to a party…where we are on the menu. But then we puffed out our chests and summoned up all our Rossie pride and began to make a case for a point here and a point there, and maybe even the odd brace of points – somewhere! We were forced to deem the home games against Monaghan, Down and Mayo as the most realistic targets for points. But even they seem ominously difficult! Never mind, it’s a great line-up of games, and Roscommon will surely relish the challenge and hopefully learn greatly from the experience. Many fans will pile into cars or travel on ‘club buses’ for the day out, while many individuals and couples will no doubt combine the away games with a night or weekend away. And sure people who dropped hints at the weekend had the best of motives; an appetising weekend away with their partner in a holiday hotspot, garnished with a wet afternoon in the stand watching Roscommon work the ball from left to right in the rain. For example, you could have an early Valentine’s weekend down in Kerry for Kerry v Roscommon on February 7th; or, for any poor soul who overlooks Valentine’s, a retrospective Valentine’s weekend away in Cork for Cork v Kerry (on 28th of February). Roscommon’s third away match of the campaign will be in Donegal,

Members of the Boyle management team look out over Hyde Park as they wait for the completion of the first game on Sunday. Picture: Andrew Fox

where fans could enjoy a pre-St Patrick’s Day weekend away (match on 13th of March). In between the Club Rossie bus and supporters weaving into Kerry, Cork and Donegal, there are home games against Monaghan (31st of January) and Down (6th of March). Our Division One thrills and spills will finish with home games in late March and early April. If we haven’t already picked up enough points we’ll just have to do the business in those final two home games. They’re against Mayo (27th of March) and Dublin (3rd of April). How much more straightforward could all of this be?

All weekend It is some achievement for the organisers of the annual Strokestown Agricultural Show to have reached year 149 (with the event, I hasten to add). In the region of 3,000 participants and spectators entered the fabulous Strokestown Park House grounds last weekend for the latest version of the nationally renowned show. While the weather was a real dampener on Sunday, the organisers were grateful, at least, for fine weather on Saturday. Congratulations to all involved in hosting another successful Strokestown Show – and no doubt the preparations are already underway for next year’s massive milestone event, the 150th annual Strokestown Agricultural Show. Can I be the first to suggest that Harvey Smith, the legendary British showjumper who gruffly but memorable graced the show back in the 1970s, be invited back in 2016?

Monday Michael Fitzmaurice has a mighty handshake. He’s holding court in the lobby of the Abbey Hotel, moments after the end of an entertaining People’s Debate, recorded there on Monday night. I had popped out for five minutes and missed one of Michael’s more passionate contributions, when he apparently denounced something as ‘bullsh*t’ and got a great round of applause. He has the common touch in spades and an affinity with the ordinary man and woman that is his greatest strength. Also chatting to guests in the lobby was Deputy Denis Naughten, who had, almost effortlessly and certainly impressively, been the stand-out

politician on the night. Maura Hopkins was in the line of fire during the debate but, faced with fierce hostility over the Roscommon Hospital issue, she remained admirably composed and stuck to her position, which is that she was not on the scene when promises were made, that she’s a new, young candidate and that’s it now time to look to the future. Anne Farrell soon discovered that Vincent Browne was going to treat Renua like an imposter on the political landscape. The host part-playfully, partseriously, went on the attack against Anne, but she battled back gamely and even won a few rounds of their bout. It had been great to see the ‘house full’ signs up shortly after 7 pm; with over 400 people turning up,

it’s clear there’s a great appetite for political debate and indeed that Vincent Browne, the show’s host, is a people’s magnet! In the lobby afterwards, we chatted about what had come up during the debate – and what hadn’t. And we chatted about who had turned up – and who hadn’t! Two things kept getting mentioned as the political junkies reviewed the evening: (1) somewhat bizarrely, water quality or water charges hadn’t been mentioned once and (2) there was a depressing lack of young people in the room. The lack of young people there tells us something a bit worrying about the present – and something a bit more worrying about the future. So it was largely left to us older folk to huddle into the Abbey Hotel function room and lament – primarily – about the state of our health service. Health dominated the debate, with some references to education, refugees and farming, and lots of playful questioning by Vincent on the subject of future Coalition formations. (Er…what young person wouldn’t enjoy all that?). Actually, our two teenage daughters attended, and such was the lack of young people present, they were asked by a number of people if they were Vincent Browne’s daughters! By the way, they enjoyed the debate too! As for Vincent Browne, he charmed just about everyone present and certainly lived up to his reputation as a true one-off. When filming ended, and later after he had presented his regular nightly show live from the Abbey Hotel (see page 20), the host was swamped by people looking for a photograph, a quick handshake or maybe even a growl or a sigh. I hope the Roscommon/Galway debate was widely viewed on Wednesday night and fair play to TV3 for this great initiative, whereby they are travelling around the constituencies on a marathon series of debates.

IF THAT’S ENDA, I WANT TO TALK TO HIM TOO! Deputies Michael Fitzmaurice (left) and Denis Naughten (right) pictured at the People’s Debate with Vincent Browne in the Abbey Hotel on Monday night. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NewsPeople

Councillor critical of HQ’s one-candidate strategy < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A Ballinasloe councillor described Fine Gael’s Roscommon-Galway Selection Convention as a “non-event” and strongly criticised the party’s decision to select just one candidate to contest the General Election. In front of a crowd of around 200 people in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, last Friday night, it was confirmed that Cllr. Maura Hopkins, from Ballaghaderreen, would be the party’s sole representative in the election in this constituency. The event began with the convention chairperson, Longford/Westmeath TD Gabrielle McFadden, reading out a directive which she had received by the party headquarters that only one candidate be selected. Ballinasloe-based Senator Michael Mullins – who had been nominated, along with Cllr. Hopkins – said that, in light of that, he was withdrawing from the convention. And so, Cllr. Hopkins was rubberstamped as the candidate. The convention drew to a close with a strong criticism of the HQ directive from Cllr. Michael Finnerty, from Ballinasloe. He argued that, as the constituency includes a strip from Ballymoe to Ballinasloe, as well as all of Co. Roscommon, a Galway candidate should also have been chosen. He rose to the platform carrying the edition of

Pictured at the recent Fine Gael Selection Convention in the Abbey Hotel were Deputy Frank Feighan, Cllr Maura Hopkins and Senator Michael Mullins. Picture: Andrew Fox

Fine Gael pins hopes on Hopkins, ‘one of the best candidates in the country’ Pictured at the recent Fine Gael Selection Convention in the Abbey Hotel were Seán Óg Curley, Frank Curley, Deputy Frank Feighan, Cllr Maura Hopkins, Senator Michael Mullins, Cllr Michael Creighton and Cllr Michael Finnerty. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the recent Fine Gael Selection Convention in the Abbey Hotel were David Crean, Dessie Keegan, Annmarie Moran, Alan Harney, Cllr Maura Hopkins, Paul Hickey, Linda Doorly, Francis Blighe and Ruth Connolly. Picture: Andrew Fox

The Phoenix in which it was stated, in a profile on Cllr. Hopkins last month, that she would be the sole candidate to contest the General Election. “I am glad all of you

people turned up for a non-event – no vote, a direction came down that was decided by headquarters,” he said. “I don’t like being told what to do by headquarters,

and I am sure I am not the only one in the room.” Cllr. Finnerty said that he did support Cllr. Hopkins and that he did not want to “rain on your parade”. But he added: “There

should have been a candidate on the Galway side to bring out the Fine Gael vote and make sure she is elected. “Our job is a little bit more difficult now.”

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

There was an upbeat atmosphere at last Friday night’s Fine Gael Selection Convention, where Cllr. Maura Hopkins was selected as the party’s candidate in the Roscommon/Galway for the upcoming General Election. Numerous speakers endorsed Cllr. Hopkins’ credentials, including her proposer, Castlecoote’s Paul Hickey, and Taughmaconnell’s Ollie Moore, a former councillor. Outgoing TD Frank Feighan was particularly positive. “Tonight is historic,” he said. “We have selected one of the best candidates that Fine Gael, or any political party, could put forward in front of the people, anywhere in the country.” Cllr. Hopkins, 31, came from political obscurity to win a council seat in the local elections in May 2014. She also contested last October’s Roscommon-South Leitrim by-election; she secured 5,593 first preference votes and ultimately finished third. Cllr. Hopkins said that she was confident of winning a seat in the General Election. She said: “I will bring my experience as a young politician, my background as an occupational therapist, my involvement in community organisations, to work with you and ensure that we win a Fine Gael seat.” Cllr. Hopkins said that recent economic statistics showed that Ireland was very much in recovery mode. “The future for Ireland is bright again,” she said. “The positive signs are there. There are more people back at work. Irish export levels are at an all-time high. Many of our young people are coming home.”

Senator hits out at ‘outrageous’ Feighan abuse < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A local Senator has strongly criticised the “outrageous abuse” that Deputy Frank Feighan has received since the closure of the accident and emergency (A&E) unit at Roscommon Hospital. There was an air of finality to the Boyle deputy’s reign as a TD at last Friday’s Roscommon-Galway Selection Convention in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town, ahead of the General Election. He had said previously that he would not contest the election. Politicians reflected on his time as

a Government TD, particularly on his decision to support the closure of the A&E. “The level of abuse that Frank has taken over the past few years is outrageous,” said Senator Michael Mullins, from Ballinasloe. “No elected representative should have to put up with that.” In his address, Deputy Feighan continually referred to the dramatic events of four years ago. He said: “I knew after making a very, very difficult decision regarding Roscommon A&E that I probably wouldn’t be going for election. “I knew the mood wouldn’t

change. From then, we were on the lookout for a good, credible candidate.” Once again, however, he justified his stance of four years ago. “If I had to make the same decision again, I would make the same decision again,” said Deputy Feighan. Deputy Denis Naughten took the opposite stance, opting to leave Fine Gael and become an Independent. Yet Deputy Feighan said: “If Denis Naughten wants to come back to Fine Gael, Frank Feighan would welcome him back and Fine Gael will not stand in his way.”

Pictured at the recent Fine Gael Selection Convention in the Abbey Hotel were Mary McKiernan, Elaine Mooney, Deputy Frank Feighan and Eileen Mulvihill. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

‘I’M GLAD YOU ASKED ME THAT’ POLITICAL BRIEFS, INSIGHTS & MUSINGS

Doherty set to seek FF nomination? < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Cllr. Rachel Doherty has given a strong indication that she is set to contest Fianna Fáil’s Selection Convention for the General Election. At Monday night’s TV3 People’s Debate, host Vincent Browne asked the Cootehall-based politician if she would be interested in vying for a seat in Roscommon-Galway. “I am interested, but I want assurances from the party leader (Micheál Martin) on a number of local issues,” she said. Fianna Fáil’s Selection Convention will

be held in October. Nominations opened on Wednesday and the closing date is next Friday, September 25. So far, Cllrs. Paschal Fitzmaurice and Eugene Murphy are the only declared candidates, although Dr Keith Swanick, a Castlerea native, and newcomer Alan Kelly, from Rathbrennan, Roscommon town, are also considering running, as is former minister of state Conor Lenihan. Williamstown’s Declan Geraghty, who previously expressed an interest, said that he would not be allowing his name go forward.

Dunphy to address Independent Alliance < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

RTÉ sports pundit and journalist Eamon Dunphy will address a meeting of the Independent Alliance in the Hodson Bay Hotel on Saturday. So far, ten candidates, including local Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, have been been lined up to contest the General Election for the Alliance, and a further ten are set to be unveiled in the coming days.

Under the banner ‘The Party’s Over’, confirmed and potential candidates will gather for a series of workshop sessions, during which Mr Dunphy will address them. Mr Dunphy is understood to be supportive of the Alliance. Deputy Fitzmaurice and Dublin NorthCentral TD Finian McGrath will talk about how to make the transition from being a councillor to a TD. The meeting is not open to the public.

Musical chairs: Anyone else playing? A game called ‘musical chairs’ used to be popular before things became a bit more sophisticated in the internet age (or was it before the war?). I don’t know what the Fianna Fail version of musical chairs is called, or what the background music would be. ‘I knew you were waiting for me’ by Aretha Franklin and George Michael maybe? Yet to select a General Election candidate, just who are FF waiting for? Is the party waiting for Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice or Cllr. Eugene Murphy (photographed by Andrew Fox at the TV3 debate on Monday night) or will, as expected, others come forward to play this particular game of musical chairs? Ray Charles had a big hit with ‘I don’t need no doctor’, which Cllrs. Fitzmaurice and Murphy might recommend as the background music, bearing in mind the speculation about Dr. Keith Swanick ‘playing’ the game. As they wait for the sweet notes to sound, Eugene and Paschal might

even have time to think beyond music – to television and film. The following is an imagined conversation! Paschal: ‘This is like an episode of Friends….the one where Rachel keeps everyone guessing!’ Eugene: ‘It’s more like a full-length

film – a mystery thriller!’ They both feel a shudder down their backs as Conor Lenihan’s image suddenly appears in their minds… Both: “Oh no…not To Russia with Love!” – Paul Healy

So that’s what it’s like to be in VB hot-seat! < PAUL HEALY

Pictured at The People’s Debate With Vincent Browne were PJ Craughwell, Christy Murphy and Michael Coleman. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at The People’s Debate With Vincent Browne were Eamon Kirrane, Cllr Rachel Doherty and Hugh Lynn. Picture: Andrew Fox

Rottweiller or poodle? We weren’t sure which Vincent Browne we’d get when the mischevious and unique broadcaster arrived in Roscommon town for a marathon ‘talkathon’ on Monday night. First there was the recording of The People’s Debate, over two hours of lively chat which was subsequently broadcast last night (Wednesday). Then, showing a pretty remarkable appetite for current affairs discussion, Vincent followed up with his live show, broadcast at 11 o’clock on Monday night from the main Abbey Hotel function room. Having been a fan of his ‘Tonight’ show over the years, I had the pleasure of being a guest on Monday night. Pleasure? Well, time would tell. Earlier on Monday night, it had been part-Rottweiller Vincent, part-poodle Vincent, if you know what I mean. Actually, he seldom enough ‘savages’ guests during The People’s Debate. There generally isn’t enough time; the programme is largely aimed at involving the public, although TDs and other politicians on the podium cannot afford to relax too much. On these occasions, exposed to austerity-hit members of the public, the politi-

cians will often find – and this is one of the strengths of these debates – that it’s the audience members as much as Vincent that they need to be wary of! Anyways, I digress, as they say. Vincent began by trying to rise Denis Naughten, accusing him of walking away from Fine Gael when difficult decisions had to be made. Naughten dealt with it fairly comfortably. Vincent next got his teeth into the Renua candidate Anne Farrell, for the first of several lively exchanges between the duo. He also ding-donged a bit with Rachel Doherty and Maura Hopkins, but there weren’t that many fireworks. Still it was an enjoyable debate, a mixture of passion (mainly on Roscommon A&E, mental health services and the Sacred Heart Hospital) and theatre. By 9.40 pm or so the debate was done and dusted and as the large crowds reflected on it all, the guests for the 11 o’clock live show were ushered up to the Fortfield Suite for make-up, tea/coffee, and small talk. The undoubted star of the show – Vincent Browne himself – arrived in and greeted his guests/victims. A while later, he was downstairs again sitting at his presenter’s desk and facing his panellists and an audience of fifty or so (Vincent Browne: “We tried to get rid of them after the debate, but they wouldn’t leave”)

Vincent Browne and Paul Healy, Editor, Roscommon People, pictured at The People’s Debate in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town. Picture: Andrew Fox.

in preparation for the live show. I was delighted that the first question I was asked was on ‘Roscommon politics’ – later we chatted about the refugee crisis and the upcoming General Election. It was soon clear that Browne was more in the mood for mischief-making than out and out confrontation. Off-air he had this exchange with a fellow panellist. VB: “Are you nervous?” Panellist: “No.” VB: “You should be!” Doing the 11 o’clock show was enjoyable, with a relaxed Browne making lots of wisecracks and Hugh Lynn from Loughglynn proving to be a dab hand at monitoring the ‘tweet machine.’

(Tweet of the night was probably one viewer’s suggestion that Roscommon Fianna Fail should grant refugee status to Conor Lenihan. Browne loved that one). During the final ad break Browne asked the audience to suggest a well-known Roscommon song and when Hugh Lynn volunteered ‘The Rose of Castlerea’ the host said ‘okay, I’ll get you to sing it at the end of the programme.’ By 11.56 or so a four-hour political marathon in the Abbey Hotel was coming to an end. With a nice eye for witty tweets, Hugh Lynn – who should get the job permanently – was proving to be a natural on the tweet machine. Unfortunately he can’t sing.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NewsPeople

Pictured at Monday’s night The People’s Debate with Vincent Browne in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town. Pictures: Andrew Fox.

A&E closure dominates Vincent Browne debate < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The closure of the accident and emergency (A&E) Department at Roscommon Hospital dominated Monday’s night The People’s Debate with Vincent Browne in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town. It may be over four years since the unit was shut, but the lengthy and heated discussion on the subject was clear evidence of how the people of Co.

Roscommon continue to harbour deep resentment over the issue. Up to 400 people attended the event. It was part of a series of debates that TV3 are holding in all 40 constituencies throughout the country in the run-up to the forthcoming General Election. Taoiseach Enda Kenny’s reneged upon promise, about the retention of all services at the hospital, was raised by numerous contributors.

Monday night’s hospital discussion started shortly after the beginning of the debate. Mr Browne put it to now Independent TD Denis Naughten that he had “abandoned ship” and “didn’t have the guts to stay with Fine Gael over the hospital”. “You ran away from hard decisions,” he said. Deputy Naughten responded that Fine Gael “expelled” him and that he was prepared to “stand with the people” over the

Pictured at The People’s Debate With Vincent Browne were Anthony Murray, Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice, Freda Fox, John Mulligan and Pat Heneghan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Freda’s invite for Vincent! < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

While very serious issues were discussed at Monday night’s debate, it was punctuated with humour and witty oneliners. The best came from Freda Fox, from Castlerea, who chided host Vincent Browne, 71, while discussing the Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon town. She said: “Vincent, if you ever need a month’s respite, you should go to the Sacred Heart Hospital and you will get first-class treatment.” She repeatedly teased the host about his advancing years, but assured him that he was a “lovely looking chap”, adding that she loved his hair. Renua’s General Election candidate, Anne Farrell, received antagonistic treatment from Mr Browne, who was quite dismissive of her party. Yet she

proved well able for his grilling and landed some blows of her own. One member of the crowd showed ill-feeling towards Eddie Hobbs, the party’s economic advisor. Anne Farrell responded: “Some people love Eddie Hobbs; some people hate him. Some people love Vincent; some hate him.” When Vincent was probing her about her former membership of the Labour Party, she reminded him of his previous status in Young Fine Gael. Independent TD Denis Naughten had a similar dig before recording of the programme began. Mr Browne jokingly clarified Naughten’s current status as an Independent by adding: “But you used to be in Fine Gael.” Deputy Naughten retorted to Browne: “I was once in Fine Gael but now I’m an Independent, same as you!”

Taoiseach’s failure to adhere to his commitment to retain the A&E. “The justification for the closure was that it was unsafe,” he said, adding that cardiac mortality figures were “fabricated” to rationalise the decision. He drew sustained applause when he said that Deputy James Reilly, the health minister at the time, had “failed to apologise to Pat McHugh and the people of Roscommon over that”. Dr McHugh, who died in March, campaigned strongly against the closure. He was also a greatly respected consultant physician in the hospital for many years. Then Mr Browne challenged Cllr. Maura Hopkins, Fine Gael’s General Election candidate, on the issue. “Since that broken promise, why should the people of Roscommon vote for Fine Gael?” he asked. Initially, Cllr. Hopkins said that it was wrong to make such a promise, but she drew widespread boos from the crowd when she said: “The information was that the hospital was not safe to deal with emergency services.” Cllr. Hopkins, as the ‘face of Fine Gael’ – Deputy Frank Feighan was absent – received a hostile reception on various occasions. She repeatedly pointed to positive emergency developments in Co. Roscommon, such as the air ambulance, but her attempts to disassociate herself from the A&E decision did not go down well. “I was not part of the Government at that time,” she said. Sinn Féin’s Claire Kerrane, who will represent the party in the General Election, countered her

Ballaghaderreen rival’s earlier claim when she said: “There was no evidence to suggest the A&E was unsafe.” Several members of the crowd also spoke passionately on the subject. Marie Gillooly, from Roscommon town, said that on the strength of the notorious promise, two Fine Gael TDs, Denis Naughten and Frank Feighan, were elected in this constituency. “It was not good enough that it was shut,” she said. “Services have disimproved. Ask anyone if they would prefer the health service in Roscommon now or five years ago, and I know what answer you would get.” John McDermott, the chairperson of the HAC, challenged Cllr. Hopkins on her claims about the improved services since then. “There is only one air ambulance for the whole country,” he said. “The last two incidents in Roscommon town were serviced by the Coast Guard

James Campbell, Cllr. John Keogh and Michael Scally pictured at Monday’s night The People’s Debate with Vincent Browne in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town. Pictures: Andrew Fox.

helicopter.” He also asked her who recommended the closure of the A&E, a question that Cllr. Hopkins did not address. An 80-year-old man, the victim of a stroke, also spoke movingly about the closure. “It was a bloody disgrace,” he said. “I appeal to people to look after the elderly and the youth in this county.” Health topics dominated the debate, with the threat to the Sacred Heart Hospital and the ‘mental health crisis’ also heatedly discussed. Former councillor Michael Scally, from Ballaghaderreen, accused the Government of “telling another porky” in relation to the new ambulance base in Loughglynn, which has yet to become operational. “It was done up at enor-

mous cost and has not opened,” he said. “The base is there, but no ambulance. When is the base going to be open in Loughglynn with new ambulances?” While unable to say when this would be the case – staffing the base is the subject of a dispute – Cllr. Hopkins said: “The ambulance service is far from perfect. We do need a better ambulance service for north and west Roscommon.” Cllr. Hopkins faced a barrage of questions from different quarters throughout. Mr Browne quizzed her on whether she expected a similar “backlash” from the electorate in the forthcoming General Election. “I am under no illusions – it is going to be very difficult,” she said.

Deputies Michael Fitzmaurice and Denis Naughten pictured at Monday’s night The People’s Debate with Vincent Browne in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town. Pictures: Andrew Fox.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

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Residents in appeal over Sacred Heart Hospital < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Dr. Gerry O’Meara, Julie Silke Daly and Fr. Eugene McLoughlin pictured at the meeting regarding the Sacred Heart Hospital and Care Home. Picture: Andrew Fox

Consultant calls for retention of services < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The Consultant Geriatrician at Roscommon Hospital has strongly argued for the retention of all services at the Sacred Heart Hospital. In an in-depth contribution at the recent public meeting, Dr Gerry O’Mara said that he had been to numerous publically funded units around the country, some of which were inadequate. As well as 80 long-stay beds in the hospital, there are 15 rehabilitation and respite beds, which Dr O’Meara said provided an invaluable service. “The queue for respite is about a year long,” he said. “These are people who, if they weren’t at home, they would be in nursing homes. “A lot of them are very disabled. A lot of them are young, with head injuries, extreme needs, people with all sorts of terrible diseases. “Without respite three or four times a year, those people would be in long-stay units, either public or private, costing the Government a lot more money than they spend to provide a respite service.” Dr O’Meara said that the rehab unit would close if, as is a distinct possibility, no new admissions were permitted to over half of the nursing home beds. He said that many long-term residents in the Sacred Heart Hospital could not be catered for in private nursing homes because of rules enforced by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA). “Because of HIQA, private nursing homes won’t take anyone with bad pressure sores or who is agitated,” said Dr O’Meara. “That rules out a lot of patients who are in the Sacred Heart long-stay.” He said that otherwise these patients would face long admissions in acute hospitals, which he said would be far more costly to the State. In conclusion, he said that it would be financially wise for the Government to ensure the Sacred Heart Home continues to fully function. “This is a money problem; money would solve this,” he said. “At the end of the day, it would be money well spent.”

Current residents of the Sacred Heart Hospital have given glowing testimonies about the standard of care at the State-run nursing home, the future of which is in jeopardy. Up to 10 long-stay residents, some of whom are wheelchair-bound, attended a public meeting in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town on Wednesday, 9th of September. The meeting, held by the Hospital Action Committee (HAC), was called as serious question marks surround the future of the ‘County Home’. Over 350 people were in attendance, including union officials, medical professionals, local politicians and community leaders. Mary Scott, who lives in the hospital, said: “Prior to being a resident, I had used some of the services offered by the Sacred Heart Home, such as meals-on-wheels and day care. I also had stays for respite and rehab care. “On all occasions, it gave me the necessary care and assistance to return to my own home and live independently. Without this, I believe I would have needed long-term care much sooner.” She said that, towards the end of last year, it dawned on her that she needed full-time care. “And I told my family that there was only one place where I would go – the Sacred Heart Home,” she said. “It was great to be able to get a place there because I knew it would always be spotless and the care there would be second to none. I share a room with lovely people and enjoy chatting to all of the people around me. “We go on outings and there are many activities arranged for us.” Ms Scott was very complimentary about the staff. “I feel strongly that, through their diligent care, they have kept me out of hospital,” said the Elphin native, who has lived in Roscommon town for many years. “Our opinions are asked for on various matters that affect us.” She strongly opposed any moves to curtail services at the nursing home. “I would hope that the services of the Sacred Heart Home are not cut back as I believe it is everyone’s right to have the opportunity for care and rehabilitation in their own county,” she said. HAC chairperson John McDermott explained

the current situation regarding the facility – stating that unless the Government urgently commits to rebuilding the facility, it will soon face a restriction on admissions. He said that, under newly-enforced health regulations, the majority of rooms must be of single occupancy. “Our hospital isn’t in that range,” he added. HIQA have warned the HSE, which runs the hospital, that 45 of the 80 long-stay beds would face a restriction on admissions imminently unless a commitment is soon made to construct a new 50-bed unit. This would require capital funding expenditure of up to €12 from the Government; no such commitment has been forthcoming so far. Ms Scott and others were adamant that, while the health watchdog may point to structural

issues, there is no shortfall in the standard of care. “The care that my mother is receiving in the home is really very good,” said one woman. “I go in there to see her every day. “I can walk around the whole home with my mother. She is very popular there because she always smiles and everybody loves her. We go around all of the different wards and she is acknowledged by everybody.” She, too, objected to any plans to reduce services. “I would be afraid, if the services are downgraded, some of the ancillary services, like physiotherapy and occupational therapy, won’t be there anymore,” she said. “That would be of concern to all those people who are getting older.”

Mary Queeney (resident), Mary Scott and Kathleen Reilly (resident) pictured at the meeting regarding the Sacred Heart Hospital and Care Home. Picture: Andrew Fox

FEIGHAN AND KELLY CONFIDENT OF FUNDING

Valerie Bodkins, Mary Hoare and Joan Kilcommons (resident) pictured at the meeting regarding the Sacred Heart Hospital and Care Home. Picture: Andrew Fox

Co. Roscommon’s two Government representatives said at last week’s public meeting that they were very confident that a funding announcement was imminent to completely rebuild the Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon town. The Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) have told the HSE that, if the State nursing home is to remain open to fully capacity, the Government promise funding of up to €12 million to reconstruct it. Deputy Frank Feighan, of Fine Gael, and Senator John Kelly, of the Labour Party, both strongly indicated that the Government would respond favourably in this regard.

Deputy Feighan, who was heckled during his contribution, said: “In four weeks’ time, I am absolutely certain that I will be able to provide the funding for the Sacred Heart Home. “I say that because the economy is going quite well and I genuinely believe that we can get the €10 million-€11 million to provide the building we need.” Senator Kelly said that he would be “absolutely amazed” if such funding were not forthcoming in a similar timeframe. “I can give you my categorical assurance that I am standing by the people on this issue,” he said. “I am quite confident that we will get the money.”

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

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‘Sacred Heart Hospital worth €6m a year for local economy’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The downgrading of the Sacred Heart Hospital would have a detrimental impact on Roscommon town’s economy, it was stated at last week’s public meeting. The President of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, Declan Molloy, right, said that the town was very dependent on the jobs associated with the State nursing home. “There are in the region of 140 people employed there overall,” he said. “It is worth in the region of €5 million-€6 million a year to the local economy. That’s massive.” The local parish priest, Canon Eugene McLoughlin, also spoke of the importance of the facility to the local community. He said that he had a long association with the home, having been present at its opening in 1973. “We don’t want it closed or downgraded,” he said. “We want to make it the best it can be for the future generations or older people of Roscommon.” Canon McLoughlin said that, for many years, the Sacred Heart Hospital housed 200 residents; the current maximum capacity of the facility is 95 people. This comment was raised later in the meeting by Eddie Flanagan, the voluntary chairman of Western Alzheimer’s in Co. Roscommon. “We should be looking to get 200 beds there, not keep 95,” he said. “Because, as Alzheimer’s is developing and people are living longer, we will need that. “Co. Roscommon has the highest incidence of Alzheimer’s per capita in the country.”

Sparks ﬂy between FF and HAC over seeking commitment < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

ianna Fáil’s failure to give a full commitment to completely rebuild the Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon town, if elected to the next government, led to a massive row with the Hospital Action Committee (HAC) at last week’s public meeting in the Abbey Hotel. However, Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice threatened to quit Fianna Fáil if they failed to give such a pledge. Cllr. Orla Leyden said that, without it (a pledge), the party would not run a candidate in the forthcoming General Election in the Roscommon-Galway constituency. The segment of the meeting involving politicians was fiery throughout. It began with HAC chairperson John McDermott seeking the signed commitment from opposition politicians. This angered one resident of the home, John McWatt. Shouting from the crowd, the 74-year-old said: “Chairman, that is a ridiculous question you are asking. From potential politicians, people who haven’t been elected, if they get elected to a main political party and they get to Dublin, what are they going to do? “They are going to sit on their hands until the whip tells them to get into the lobby. You are being fatuous; you are just being ridiculous.” Nevertheless, Mr McDermott, who chaired the meeting, persevered with the question. The first opposition politician that he posed it to was Cllr. Fitzmaurice, of Fianna Fáil. Cllr. Fitzmaurice said that, if he were to become the party’s General Election candidate, he would be “committed” to receiving such a pledge, but was equivocal. He said: “If I am the candidate, I will be committed to that and I would be ashamed if I couldn’t get that money for Roscommon. “And I certainly would not stick with Fianna Fáil if I couldn’t.” Yet Mr McDermott pressed him: “Are you giving a commitment on behalf of Fianna Fáil that the €10 million/€12 million that is required for the Sacred Heart Hospital (will be provided) if they are in government after the next election?” Again, Cllr. Fitzmaurice was not emphatic in his response, which led to a forceful invention from his party colleague Cllr. Leyden. Initially, Mr McDermott objected to her speak-

HAC organisers pictured outside the Abbey Hotel prior to the commencement of last week’s meeting.

ing because he had previously said that only one representative from each party would be allowed to contribute on the night. But Cllr. Leyden refused to back down and objected to his “grilling” Cllr. Fitzmaurice. She said: “I am Fianna Fáil councillor in this area for the past 11 years and I am saying that us, the eight Fianna Fáil councillors (in Co. Roscommon), are ensuring that Fianna Fáil will provide the money. “We are saying that we will not be running a candidate without the commitment. Yes, we are ensuring it. Yes, we, the eight elected councillors, are demanding it.” However, Cllr. Valerie Byrne, of the HAC, still wasn’t satisfied. “You were asked to bring it up to Dublin and get it signed,” she said. “Did you get it signed – ‘yes’ or ‘no’?” At this point, Cllr. Paddy Kilduff, of Fianna Fáil, admonished Cllr. Byrne, but his retort could not be heard over the commotion that was permeating the room. However, at the time of the meeting, his party had not provided a written commitment. Of the

opposition politicians, only Sinn Féin’s election candidate, Claire Kerrane, had done so, the HAC said. She displayed it during her contribution. “Sinn Fein are fully committed to protecting the Sacred Heart Home and we have fully signed, committed and written this down on paper,” said Ms Kerrane. Independent TDs Michael Fitzmaurice and Denis Naughten may follow suit. “If I get the opportunity that I am in negotiation for government, I will promise the people of Roscommon, or sign whatever declaration, that the Sacred Heart Home will be part of that,” said Deputy Fitzmaurice. Meanwhile, Deputy Naughten said: “If I happen to be elected and happen to have a say in the next government, I will not be voting for any Taoiseach unless I have a commitment in relation to the Sacred Heart Hospital in my pocket – simple as that.” Anne Farrell, Renua’s candidate, said that she fully supported keeping the Sacred Heart Hospital open and if the commitment were sent to her, she would “certainly respond”.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

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Celebrate Ireland’s ﬁrst Nutritional Therapy Awareness Week with Healthy Beings Health Store! 14th - 21st September 2015 For more local events check out www.ntoi.ie/NTAW As part of Nutrtional Therapy Awareness Week, come in and meet with your local Nutritional Therapist, Ann Gannon and find out how Nutritional Therapy could benefit your health

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Top advice at Strokestown Store on Thursday The Nutritional Therapists of Ireland (NTOI) is the official association for nutritional therapists and is proud to announce Ireland’s first official Nutritional Therapist Awareness Week, which runs from September 14 to 21. Ann Gannon, a member of the NTOI, will be at Healthy Beings Health Store, Strokestown, on Thursday (17th) throughout the day and also Oasis Health Store, Carrick-on-Shannon, on Friday (18th) throughout the day. Nutritional therapy is an evidence-based approach to maximising one’s health potential through individually formulated nutritional and lifestyle changes. Nutritional therapy treats the body as a whole while seeking the root source of health concerns, rather than simply treating the symptoms. Whilst there are certain dietary modifications that are likely to benefit everyone, a nutritional therapist recognises that everyone is different, the one size fits all diet does not exist. Rather the diet of most benefit to your health will be the one that is specifically designed to meet your individual biochemical needs (personalised nutrition). Nutritional therapy focuses on natural, wholesome, unprocessed whole foods for optimal well being, as well as the therapeutic effects of particular foods for specific health conditions which heal the body and boost overall health. A nutritional therapist will work with the client to devise a meal plan that is nutritionally balanced, practical, enjoyable and sustainable. If any foods need to be reduced or eliminated for a period of time viable alternatives

will be suggested that will maintain nutritional needs. The aim is to find a diet and lifestyle that helps you look and feel your absolute best. Where necessary, a nutritional therapist may also recommend vitamin and mineral supplements to help alleviate certain symptoms or

optimise nutritional status. However, natural foods are always the first line of treatment. Nutritional therapy is not intended to replace conventional medicines but to complement them.

THE PEOPLE’S DEBATE

Pictured at The People’s Debate With Vincent Browne were Tom Forkin, Claire Kerrane and Cllr Michael Mulligan. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

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PEOPLE

SOCIAL PEOPLE:

See pages 28 & 29

‘Hypnotism is harder than comedy or singing…it’s completely unpredictable!’ F < PAUL HEALY

ifteen minutes spent chatting

to Jason O’Callaghan goes by in a blur. Perhaps he’s hypnotised me over the phone, although I don’t think he did. It’s more that he talks quite fast, which is apt, because he’s clearly a very busy, energetic man who doesn’t like standing still. After all, he’s packed more into his adult life to date than most people would expect to manage in a long lifetime. As a journalist, the Dublin native spent almost a decade writing for the Sunday Independent; later he co-founded the Irish Rat Pack Show and continues to perform as a singer; wrote the best-selling ‘Confessions of a Gossip Columnist’; then reinvented himself as a psychologist – and now tours with a comedy hypnotism show. It’s because of the latter that Jason and I are chatting; he brings his unique hypnotism show to Roscommon Arts Centre on this Saturday night, 19th of September. Jason speaks with passion about hypnosis and it’s a slight challenge to divert the conversation back to the ‘celebrity journalism’ that first brought him to prominence, or indeed to his acclaimed ‘Rat Pack’ music career. A man who loves taking on new challenges, he says he has always been interested in psychology, and that led him to return to college in 2008. He left with a Masters Degree in Applied Psychology. In 2011 Jason opened the D4 Clinic, which is a Psychology/Hypnosis Clinic. Typically clients will want to see if hypnosis can help them to lose weight, quit smoking, boost their confidence, perhaps prove life-changing for them. And it can do all of those things, Jason says. “People have lost seven or eight stone after they’ve availed of our service” he says of the life-changing potential of hypnosis. Stating that “our aim is to save lives,” he has done ground-breaking research into the effects of hypnosis on cancer patients to help them reduce stress. He also volunteered for over four years in the mental health sector to better understand the workings of the human mind.

Hailing hypnosis for the significant benefits it can deliver, and for the fun and entertainment that it can create as well, Jason says 80% of people can be hypnotised to a light degree, while 10% of people can be fully hypnotised. We’ll talk about this weekend’s visit to Roscommon Arts Centre later, but I want to hear more about his days with the ‘Sunday Indo’ back in the Celtic Tiger years. Jason co-wrote a social diary page with Gayle Killilea, who in more recent years has been in the news with her husband, developer Sean Dunne. Working as a journalist in the Sunday Independent at that time brought him into contact with a world of celebrity and glamour. “Yeah, it might have looked great from the outside,” he says, and I know there’s a ‘but’ coming. He worked under Terry Keane (the renowned social diarist) but in reality he was answerable to Anne Harris, wife of the then Editor, Aengus Fanning, and herself destined to become Sunday Independent Editor many years later. “Anne didn’t get to where she is without being very, very tough” Jason says. Working the ‘celebrity beat’ was not as glamorous as readers might think, he reveals. He felt ongoing pressure to deliver for the paper. When he did an interview with a celebrity, the PR people wanted one thing, but his newspaper bosses invariably wanted something much more salacious: “basically who they were sleeping with!” And it was all fiercely competitive too – “not just with other media, in fact you were competing with newspapers all over the world for these celebrities, but even with my colleague, Gayle, on our page!” When I say “So it wasn’t all fun?” he fires back with a classic line. “No, certainly not. It was like being married to a nymphomaniac; the first two weeks are great but it loses its shine after a while!” Okay, we’ll move on, but just before we do, Jason confirms that he and his colleagues in the Sunday Independent knew all about the existence of the relationship between Charles Haughey and Terry Keane. “In fairness, I think the dogs in the street knew.” Leaving journalism, Jason founded

The Irish Rat Pack in 2002. He was producer, director and performer. Singing the classics associated with stars like Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Junior, the band has performed to great acclaim. More recently his band has been rebranded as The Speakeasy Band. They are in much demand for weddings and corporate events. Upcoming high profile gigs will see them performing at the Dublin Lord Mayor’s Ball and at the Taoiseach’s Presentation Dinner. A busy man, for sure. He lives in Dublin, with his wife Carina and their children, Camille and Ethan. We did this interview on Friday; he had been performing his hypnosis as a comedy act at a wedding the previous night. He promises a “breathtaking and hilarious show” in Roscommon this Saturday night. “I am pushing the boundaries of hypnotism. I’m different to Keith Barry…I take a much more scientific approach. This is the hardest thing I’ve ever done but it’s also the pinnacle for

me. It’s harder than singing, harder than comedy. At least then you know your act. If people don’t laugh or dance, okay. With hypnotism, I don’t know what’s going to happen; it’s completely unpredictable.” Yes, members of the audience in Roscommon will get a chance to volunteer to come up on stage, but he stresses that you have to want to be hypnotised, or it won’t work, adding “it’s very safe and it’s fun!” He can hypnotise people to forget their own names, believe they are world famous celebrities, that they can speak to Aliens, that their belt is actually a live snake and that they are contestants on The X Factor! Personally, I wouldn’t at all like to hypnotised, but I do find it fascinating and I think this will be an entertaining show and a great night out, ideal for a group of friends. Jason asks me to come along and introduce myself to him on Saturday night. I might just do that – either before or

after the show! * Jason O’Callaghan is on stage in Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday, September 19th (bookings on 0906625824/www.roscommonartscentre. ie).

5 pairs of tickets to be won! The Roscommon People has five pairs of tickets to give away for Jason O’Callaghan’s show. To be in with a chance of winning two tickets, just answer the following question: What national newspaper did Jason O’Callaghan write a popular social diary for? Entries (include your contact details) by Friday 18th of September (by post) to Jason O’Callaghan competition, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon or by email to news@ roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS

SOCIAL DANCE on Friday, September 18th in Kilteevan Community Centre Music by: TR Dallas Dancing 10.00 pm - 12.30 am Refreshments and Free raffle. Admission €10.

NEW RELEASE FRIDAY 18TH

Centre Point Retail Park Roscommon KIDS MOVIE CLUB (KMC) Adult & Kids Tickets ONLY €3 each For All Enquiries Tel: 090-6665333 facebook/ C & L plex

Castlecoote Lodge BAR AND LOUNGE & REPLICA DAIL & SEANAD LOUNGE Castlecoote, Roscommon

minnows Kids Play Area Mon to Sat 10am to 6pm Sun & Bank Hols 11am to 6pm

Week Commencing Fri 18th– Thur 24th

Daily Movie Times

EVEREST 2D (G)

16:20 ; 19:10 ; 21:25

EVEREST 3D (G)

18:55; 21:30

MINIONS 2D (G)

12:10; 14:15

INSIDE OUT 2D (G)

12:30; 14:40

LEGEND (18) (NO 14:15 SHOW ON SATURDAY 19TH)

14:15; 18:40; 21:20 14:00; 16:25; 19:15

- Friday night 18th September at 10pm -

POSTMAN PAT (G)

12:00

“Ceol agus Craic”

STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON (16)

16:15; 21:30

THE VISIT (15A)

14:15; 17:00; 21:45

F A I LT E

VACATION (15A)

16:50; 19:05

Glenamaddy Players will present three one-act plays on four dates in the coming weeks – September 25/26 and October 2/3 – in the Town Hall Theatre, Glenamaddy at 8 pm each night. Come and see Holy Mary by Eoin Colfer, the hilarious farce Costa del Packet by Anthony Booth, and the fantastically funny This Desirable Cottage also by Anthony Booth. For booking, please call 086-2045896 from Monday to Friday from 11 am to 4 pm. Admission: €10. Guaranteed laugh-out-loud entertainment not to be missed.

Friday 18th

The Square House Social Acts TBA

Saturday 19th:

TR Dallas on stage in Kilteevan on Friday night

Forthcoming Glenamaddy Players shows

Telephone: 090 6626225

Saturday 19th:2015 Rugby World Cup: ’IRELAND v’s CANADA’ on the big screen!! No Charge! Call us to reserve your seat at 090-6665333

NO ESCAPE (15A)

night, from 10 pm to 12.30 am. The name TR Dallas was first launched on the Irish music scene in 1980. Since then, he has become a household name throughout Ireland, the UK and beyond. With a string of hit records to his name, like ‘Who Shot JR Ewing’, ‘Hard to be Humble’, ‘Daddy’s Girl’ and ‘This Story I tell you is True’, numerous radio and television shows and thousands of fans, he continues to tour extensively. He is sure to entertain in Kilteevan on Friday night. Admission is €10, while refreshments will be served and a free draw will be held.

- Market Square, Roscommon Thursday 17th

Irish Trad Night

One of Ireland’s most successful entertainers, TR Dallas, will perform in Kilteevan Community Centre on this Friday

JJ HARLOWS

The Junkyard Geordies Sunday 20th:

Mick Cleary, Alan Glennon and Lauren O’Riordan pictured at a fundraising event in Charlie’s Bar, Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Weekend entertainment at JJ’s in Roscommon Michael Banahan will perform in the Folk Club in JJ Harlow’s, The Square, Roscommon town, tonight (Thursday) from 9 pm to 11 pm. Founding member of Traditional/Folk group Rig the Jig, Michael has been involved in the music business for many years and has released in total nine critically acclaimed albums. He was a founder of GoodWood Music, a record label set up to support original

Irish talent from all genres of music. The label release records worldwide through partnerships developed in the UK and the USA. On this Friday night in JJ’s, meanwhile, The Square House Social will take place, while on Saturday, the Junkyard Geordies will perform. Finally, on Sunday night, Cara Ceol will perform, concluding a wonderful few days’ music in the top Roscommon town pub.

Rockin’ Rossies cheque presentation Following the hugely successful Rockin’ Rossies night, held recently at Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon town, a cheque, the proceeds of the night, will be presented to Pieta House West at the same venue on this Friday at 9 pm.

Members of the band, the organisers and the local Pieta House committee will also be there. Everyone is welcome to attend. Pieta House West is a suicide and selfharm crisis centre.

Cara Ceol

- 6 pm in Middle Bar * No Cover Charge, all gigs are at 10pm approx unless stated otherwise * Search for us on facebook: JJ-Harlows- The- Square-Roscommon-Town

Proudly serving

Castlemine Farm selection of pies

BEER OF THE WEEK! Independent Red Ale

This Independent Red Ale shows off a combination of Magnum, Pacific and Williamette hops providing you with a traditional red ale with a deep dark colour and a malty backbone. ABV 4.5%

JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS

Trad night in Castlecoote Lodge All lovers of the best Irish music, singing and dancing will enjoy the famous ‘Irish Trad Night’ on this Friday night, September 18, at the Castlecoote Lodge Bar and Lounge, Castlecoote. The ‘Irish Trad Night’ is held on the third Friday of every Month and was featured on RTÉ 1 Nationwide broadcast last year. Guest artists always made very welcome. The ’Irish Trad Night’ attracts regular customers and visitors from Roscommon and adjoining counties. There is never a cover charge and guests are treated to hot and cold food. For a night to remember for ceol agus craic, make sure to come and maybe sing a song or a recitation, play a tune or maybe an Irish Dance.

The Country Ballroom

TULSK INN Saturday, 19th September Double Act with

Sean Corrigan & Mick Flavin Admission €15

Hamrock’s Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday, 19th September –

Midnight Melodies To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!

Watch out for our 3rd Anniversary night - coming soon

Roscommon County Council presents Culture Night 2015 Explore, experience, enjoy! On Friday, September 18, the whole nation will celebrate its home-grown arts sector. As part of this festival, Roscommon will host their very own culture night in various locations dotted around the county. For one night only, treat yourself once again to a free evening of exciting entertainment and culture. No matter where you are in the county on Friday, September 18, you’ll be

hard-pressed not to find something to entertain and excite the senses. Ceol rince traidisiúnta, agus rinceorí seiteanna i gCeiliurlann an Chraoibhín – Traditional Dance Music and Set Dancers in Douglas Hyde Centre, Portahard, Frenchpark. A bilingual event for young and old in the Douglas Hyde Interpretative Centre. The event will see audiences experience and participate in traditional

Irish music, story-telling, song and dance through the medium of both the Irish and English languages. Commencing at 7 pm, until late. For further information, please contact Deirdre on 087-7823751. Early Irish Poetry Recital – Rathcroghan Visitor Centre, Cruachan Aí, Tulsk. Early Irish Poetry recital and talk on its interpretations, from 6 pm until 8 pm. For further information, please go to www.Facebook.com/ Rathcroghan/Events or contact 071-9639268. ‘Ceol do Chuile Duine’ – Traditional Music and Dance in Keadue, from 8.30 pm to 10.30 pm. For more information, please contact Michael Guihen at 087-7900361. Tours of King House, Boyle; concert and Yeats poetry readings. Visit the magnificently-restored

Performing in King House, Boye: One of Ireland’s leading international female concert pianists, Thérèse Fahy.

Georgian mansion in Boyle, with its Interpretative Galleries and Museum. Free tours of the house from 6 pm to 9 pm. Booking essential. Ireland’s leading international female

Cultural events at Hyde Interpretative Centre Dr Douglas Hyde Interpretative Centre, Portahard, Frenchpark will host a series of cultural evenings in the upcoming months. On Friday 18th September 2015, between 7 pm and 10 pm the Centre will host a delightful bilingual event for young and old. The event will see audiences experience and participate in traditional Irish music, storytelling, song

and dance through the medium of both the Irish and English languages. On Friday 25th September 2015, at 8 pm the Centre will open for Myles Sweeney’s Lecture. Myles Sweeney, a native of Ballaghaderreen, holds a Masters in Business Finance and a PhD in Economic Psychology from UCD; and having lectured in related fields, he

continues his professional work and research across personal, organisational and economic development. Several strands of this research brought him to examine more closely our history, get behind several layers of bias, and unravel a unique local heritage which he titled Celtic Heartland. On Thursday 8th October 2015, the Centre

will open for the Writers Workshop Course. Geraldinne Finn’s Local Creative Writing Course will encourage you to develop your own unique writing skills, in a safe, supportive setting. Another great night to look forward to will be in October 23rd 2015. That night local poets and students from local schools will recite some poetry.

pianist, Thérese Fahy, will play an exciting mixture of old and new piano masterpieces. A highlight will be a piece by Roscommonbased composer, Siobhan Cleary, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth of WB Yeats. Concert starts at 8 pm. There will also be an opportunity for visitors to explore Maria McKinney’s new exhibition, which runs throughout the house. For further information, contact 087-2829425 or go to www.kinghouse.ie Library Events. Boyle Branch Library. Crafting demonstrations including Quilting and Basket making from 5 pm to 8 pm. For further information, contact 071-9662800. Roscommon Library will host an Art Exhibition by a local artist from 6 pm until 8 pm. Ballaghaderreen Library will host a Photography exhibition by local

Photography Club from 6 pm until 9 pm. For more, contact 094-9877044. Culture Night at Historic Strokestown Park House. For more information contact 071-9633013 or email info@strokestownpark.ie Traditional Music, Dance and Food Tasting in Fourmilehouse Community Centre, Kilbride in conjunction with Roscommon Disability Support Group. All traditional music players welcome to come and join in the craic. Calling all Céilí Dancers to come along and show their skills, from 7 pm until 11 pm. For further information, contact Bernie Kearney on 086-6000755 or Mary (Derrane Resource Centre) on 090-6625852. ‘Seisiún’ in Athleague Community Centre – Athleague Branch Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Eireann. Traditional music, dancers, singers and storytellers.

All welcome to come and participate. From 10 pm until late. Contact Mary at 086-4022400. Art Exhibition in Athleague Angling & Heritage Centre. Exhibition of mixed media paintings by local artist, Anne Rigney from 7.30 pm until 10 pm. Tel: 090-6663602. ‘Seisiún’ in Ballybay Parish Hall, Kiltoom-Athlone Branch Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Eireann. Ceol, craic agus comhrá – traditional music, dancers, singers and storytellers. Contact Nancy at 0857189132. Culture Night is brought to you by the Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Oireachtas na Gaeilge and Foras na Gaeilge in partnership with Roscommon County Council and supported by The Arts Council. See www.culturenight.ie, www.roscommoncoco.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS

Pictured in Ned’s Bar were Gillian Martin, Seán Donoghue, Gillian McDermott and Jodie Jarrett.

Pictured in Ned’s Bar, Knockcroghery were Orla and Johnny Geraghty.

Out A great night in Ned’s… & N About ed’s Bar in Knockcroghery

Photographs:

Andrew Fox

is one of the most popular pubs in the locality, a venue which attracts customers of all ages and where a great atmosphere is always guaranteed. Ned’s was buzzing on Saturday, September 12th last when proprietor

Anouska O’Grady celebrated her 40th birthday. ‘Crazy Corner’ provided the music on a very memorable night. Photographer Andrew Fox made a flying visit. Anouska was busy behind the bar but Andrew ‘captured’ some of the guests on camera!

Pictured in Ned’s Bar, Knockcroghery were Shane Beirne and Ann Raftery.

Pictured in Ned’s Bar were Tina English, Kate Walsh and Patricia Beirne.

Pictured in Ned’s Bar, Knockcroghery were Irene Nestor and David Beirne.

Pictured in Ned’s Bar, Knockcroghery were Fiona Kelly, Majella Tully, Derek Tully, Christina Delaney and Ann Caulfield.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS

Pictured enjoying the 21st birthday celebrations of Siobhan Igoe and Adam McLoughlin were Eoin Kendrick, Stephanie Delaney and Jack Healy.

Pictured enjoying the 21st birthday celebrations of Siobhan Igoe and Adam McLoughlin were Susan and Siobhán Igoe.

Pictured enjoying the 21st birthday celebrations of Siobhan Igoe and Adam McLoughlin were Sinéad Cullina, Aoife Thornton, Nicole McCartney, Kate Ward, Ciara Curtin and Niamh Brogan.

Out & About Photographs:

Andrew Fox

21st birthday celebrations of Siobhan Igoe and Adam McLoughlin McGourty’s, Castlerea

Pictured enjoying the 21st birthday celebrations of Siobhan Igoe and Adam McLoughlin were Mary, Adam, Amy and JJ McLoughlin.

Pictured enjoying the 21st birthday celebrations of Siobhan Igoe and Adam McLoughlin were Shirley Murray, Adam McLoughlin and Gail Murray.

Pictured enjoying the 21st birthday celebrations of Siobhan Igoe and Adam McLoughlin were Adrian Tarmey, Maura Connell, Danny Owens and Melanie Gannon.

Pictured enjoying the 21st birthday celebrations of Siobhan Igoe and Adam McLoughlin were Siobhan Igoe, Mairéád Igoe and Ciara Kelly.

Pictured enjoying the 21st birthday celebrations of Siobhan Igoe and Adam McLoughlin were Adam McLoughlin, Mary Croghan, Hazel Connolly and Jarlath Croghan.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

2nd

Annual

2015 Harvest Exhibition Lecarrow Village

Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from

Knockcroghery TEL:

090 66 61923

OPENING HOURS: Monday - Friday 10.00 am - 5.00 pm Saturday 11.00 am - 1.00 pm Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from

Cllr. John Naughten Ardkeenan, Drum, Athlone, Co. Roscommon (090) 64 37928 (087) 9019334 Email: cllrjnaughten@roscommoncoco.ie Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from

Coyne Carpentry & Joinery All Internal Carpentry - 2nd fix flooring, stairs, kitchens, wardrobes and joinery

Ciaran Coyne Knockcroghery Co. Roscommon 085 7111570 email: ccoynecarpentry@gmail.com website: www.coynecarpentryandjoinery.ie

Ned’s BAR Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon POOL & DART ALL PARTIES CATERED FOR

Telephone:

086 9395999

Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from

Cllr.

Paddy Kilduff T.: (086)2568570 E.: paddy@kilduff.ie

Saturday, 19th September 2015 (from 12pm)

Harvest Exhibition in Lecarrow on Saturday The second annual Harvest Exhibition will take place on the lands of James and Eleanor Coffey in Lecarrow on this Saturday at noon. Cllr. Paddy Kilduff, the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, will officially launch the event, which is being hosted by the committee of St John’s Community Centre. This is a traditional exhibition, with corn being harvested by old-fashioned methods, including the hook, scythe, horse-drawn reaper and binder and by the old-style threshing machine. A sheep fair and horse and pony classes have been added to the line-up in recent days and should prove to be a good attraction. Both buyers and sellers of sheep are welcome. There will also be a novice horse and tractorploughing exhibition, in conjunction with Roscommon County Ploughing Association, in preparation for the National Ploughing Championships. Roscommon County Hunt will also hold a jumping exhibition on the day. A tug o’war competition will also take centre stage from 3 pm. On the day, refreshments will be served with a barbeque and shop on site. There will also be a harvest prince and princess competition for three to eight-year olds, a ‘guess

Cllr Maura Hopkins and Deputy Helen McEntee pictured at the 2014 Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition. Picture: Andrew Fox

the weight of the lambs’ competition, traditional stalls, traditional scythecutting competition, tying-of-the-corn competition, family scarecrow competition, free horsedrawn carriage rides, pony riding, a traditional funfair and stalls. Music and dancing facilities will be provided to add to the atmosphere and that ample car parking facilities are available within the farm itself. Trade stands are welcome by prior contact with the committee or by David Diffley, the PRO of St John’s Community Centre, on 086-8952283.

Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from

Cllr. John Keogh

Paddy Shaughnessy and Gerry Milton pictured at the 2014 Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition. Picture: Andrew Fox

Now representing the new expanded area of Athlone Electoral Area Rose Cottage, Cloongowna, Bealnamullia, Athlone, Co. Roscommon 087 6440534 cllrjkeogh@roscommoncoco.ie

Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from

Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from everyone at

Mark O’Connor Tiling

Kelly’s

●

Mosaic ● Porcelain ● Ceramic Tiling

LECARROW, CO. ROSCOMMON TELEPHONE:

086 1912010

Bar & Lounge Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon Telephone 090 66 61066

Phil Cunningham, Gavin and Sinéad Keehan pictured at the 2014 Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

2nd

Annual

2015 Harvest Exhibition Lecarrow Village

Saturday, 19th September 2015 (from 12pm) With warmest thanks to all sponsors and supporters of the Harvest Exhibition from the committee of St Johns Community Centre Lecarrow.

2015 Harvest Exhibition Lecarrow Village, 2nd An nual

Co. Roscommon

Saturday, 19th September 2015 (from 12pm) For further information contact 086 8952283 or email lecarrowparishhall@gmail.com Proceeds go to the St Johns Community Centre Development and Renovation fund.

Paddy Shaughnessy and Gerry Milton pictured at the 2014 Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition. Picture: Andrew Fox

Eamon Egan pictured at the 2014 Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition. Picture: Andrew Fox

Super family day out in store

Coffeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bar & Food Store Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon

Established 1918

Traditional Irish country pub and grocery. Music sessions are held regularly throughout the year.

Phone: 090 6661118 â&#x20AC;˘ Coffeysbarlecarrow

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The organisers of Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition have said that Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event will be a far bigger success than last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inaugural edition. David Diffley, the public relation officer of St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Centre, said that the organisation of the event had gone very well and that a number of additions had been made to the festival in recent days. He said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event will be significantly bigger than last year, with a huge positive response from local committees and participants who will take part in the day. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This year will see for instance horse and donkey

WISHING ALL AT THE HARVEST DAY GOOD LUCK FROM JOHN, AURIOL & SARAH JANE & ALL THE CREW IN COFFEYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from

Gerry Monaghan

TARMACADAM Contact: Gerry Monaghan

SERVICES: â&#x20AC;˘ Tarmacadam â&#x20AC;˘ Kerbing â&#x20AC;˘ Patio â&#x20AC;˘ Domestic & Commercial TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE GOVERNMENT HRI SCHEME

Contact us for further information Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon T: (090) 64 93386 M: (086) 8207242 Pamela Fallon, Geraldine Fallon, Pat Walsh and Chris Walsh pictured at the 2014 Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition. Picture: Andrew Fox

classes, with prizes for best in class and best turned out in classes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There will be a sheep dog display from wellknown local trainer Andy Grady. Roscommon

County Hunt will hold a jumping display. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There will be a novice horse and tractor ploughing exhibition, in conjunction with Roscommon Ploughing Association.

Proudly Supporting the Lecarrow Harvest Festival. Wishing you all a wonderful day on Saturday

There will be a sheep fair on site, and a host of other traditional harvesting techniques and showcases.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Trade stalls are welcome with a range of exhibitors already signed up to attend and there will be a traditional funfair for children with Macks Funfair and amusements. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Free pony and carriage rides will also be available on the day. We hope to offer good value for money and an enjoyable family day out with admission only â&#x201A;Ź5 for adults and children go free. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Entry to horse and pony classes is only â&#x201A;Ź5 for ponies, â&#x201A;Ź10 for horse classes and donkeys are

E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net

free. Prizes will be given to winning participants. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Anyone who would like to help out in the event or have a trade stall can contact me on 086-8952283.â&#x20AC;? Judging for the horse and donkey classes will take place at 2.30 pm. The entry fees are: ponies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x201A;Ź5; horses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x201A;Ź10; donkeys â&#x20AC;&#x201C; free. There will be prizes for the top three entrants in each of the following categories, including â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;best turned-outâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in a variety of sections, best cob-in-hand and draft-working class and heavy-working class. The best donkey in the show will also receive a prize.

Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from

BAR & VENUE * MEETINGS * RESTAURANT * ROOMS

Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition

ATHLONE ROAD ROSCOMMON 09066 37644 hannonshotel@gmail.com www.hannonshotel.com

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Best wishes to the Lecarrow Harvest Exhibition from

Cllr. Laurence Fallon BALLAGH, KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON. 090 6488232 086 8575512 cllrlfallon@roscommoncoco.ie

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

YOURMON€Y

Four top tips for saving 1) Save for speciﬁc goals You should have a savings plan for large future expenses that you anticipate — perhaps education costs, a home or car purchase, starting a small business, or preparing for retirement. And, young adults, just starting to be responsible for their own expenses should build up an emergency fund that would cover at least six months of living expenses to help get through a difficult time, such as a job loss, major car repairs, or unexpected medical expenses not covered by insurance.

2) Commit to saving money regularly This is important for everyone, but especially if you are supporting yourself financially.

3) Aim to save a minimum of 10 per cent of any money you earn or receive Putting aside a designated amount is known as “paying yourself first,” because you are saving before you’re tempted to spend.

4) Put your savings on auto-pilot Make saving money quick and easy by having your employer direct-deposit part of your paycheck into a federally insured savings account. Your employer or your financial institution may be able to set this up for you. If you don’t yet have a steady job, you can still set up regular transfers into a savings account.

mahon sweeney solicitors Mahon Sweeney is a general practice with offices in Roscommon Town and Mahon Sweeney is a general practice with offices in Roscommon Elphin. We deal with all legal matters including: Town and Elphin. We deal with all legal matters including:

Purchaseand and Sale Purchase Saleof ofproperties. properties. Administrationof of Estates/Probate. Estates/Probate. Administration Farm Transfers. Farm Transfers. Personal Injury*. Personal Injury*. Criminal Law. Criminal Law. Debt collection and recovery. Debt collection and recovery. Employment Law Employment Law Family Law. Family Law.

For more information visit our website at For more information visit our website at www.mahonsweeney.ie or contact www.mahonsweeney.ie or contact us directly to speak with directly to speak with one of our experienced Solicitors. one of us our experienced Solicitors. *In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or charges as a percentage or *I n c o n t e n t i o u s b u s i n e s s , proportion a s o l i c i t o r of m a any y n oaward t c a l c u or l a t esettlement. fe es or char ges as a pe rc enta ge or proportion of any award or s ettl em ent .

main street main street roscommon elphin t.(090) 6627350 6626102 t. (071) 9635024 e: mail@mahonsweeney.ie w: www.mahonsweeney.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

YOURMON€Y

Four ﬁnancial tips 1) Get Paid What You’re Worth and Spend Less Than You Earn It sounds simplistic, but many people struggle with this first basic rule. Make sure you know what your job is worth in the marketplace, by conducting an evaluation of your skills, productivity, job tasks, contribution to the company, and the going rate, both inside and outside the company, for what you do. Being underpaid even a thousand euros a year can have a significant cumulative effect over the course of your working life.

2) Stick to a Budget Budgeting. It’s not a fourletter word. How can you know where your money is going if you don’t budget? How can you set spending and saving goals if you don’t know where your money is going?

3) Pay Off Credit Card Debt Credit card debt is the

number one obstacle to getting ahead financially. Those little pieces of plastic are so easy to use, and it’s so easy to forget that it’s real money we’re dealing with when we whip them out to pay for a purchase, large or small. Despite our good resolves to pay the balance off quickly, the reality is that we often don’t, and end up paying far more for things than we would have paid if we had used cash.

Pearse House, 21 Pearse Street, Athlone, Co Westmeath

Contact: Brian Lennon (Tel) 090 64 93226 / 090 64 92701 (Fax) 090 64 44671

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY “The hardest thing to find in life is happiness – money is only hard to find because it gets wasted trying to find happiness” – Anonymous “Money doesn’t make you happy. I now have $50 million but I was just as happy when I had $48 million” – Arnold Schawarznegger “A father is someone who carries pictures in his wallet where his money used to be” – Unknown

The beneﬁts of dealing with a local ﬁnancial broker Aengus Oates Financial Services are offering a FREE Financial Review With over 30 years’ experience in Financial Services, Aengus Oates Financial Services offer bespoke solutions in an easy to understand manner with a personal touch. Aengus Oates Financial Services can advise on ALL your Financial Planning requirements including: Retirement Planning, Lump Sum and Monthly Savings Plans, Inheritance Tax Planning. At Aengus Oates Financial Services we will offer you an individual customised service that meets your needs. Being part of the Financial Broker Group we advise clients on what suits them best as our aims are to develop long-term clients rather than once-off customers. The demand for financial services is much more pricesensitive in the broker market

Auditors & Accountants

4) Have a Savings Plan You’ve heard it before: pay yourself first! If you wait until you’ve met all your other financial obligations before seeing what’s left over for saving, chances are you’ll never have a healthy savings account or investments. Resolve to set aside a minimum of 5 per cent to 10 per cent of your salary for savings before you start paying your bills. Better yet, have money automatically deducted from your paycheck and deposited into a separate account.

O’Sullivan Keegan & Co.

than through direct channels such as banking institutions. The main reason for this is that with seven domestic life companies, the broker is in the best position to get the lowest rates whereas direct channels generally only deal with one domestic life company and therefore the rates are not competitive. Family Protection Over 50% of parents with school going children have no Life Cover at all and many people who have Life Cover are paying much higher premiums that necessary as there are great deals on offer at the moment with various Life Companies. We are offering a FREE consultation if you wish to review your protection requirements. Mortgage Protection Due to reductions of up to 50% in the rates being charged for Mort-

…as they were saying!

“When I was young I thought that money was the most important thing in life; now that I’m older, I know that it is” – Oscar Wilde “Car sickness is the feeling you get when the monthly payment is due” – Author Unknown “A bargain is something you can’t use at a price you can’t resist” – Franklin Jones

Michael Cuddy & Co Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors Tel.:

090 64 94311

1 Fry Place, Athlone, Co. Westmeath info@mpcuddyaccountants.com Our reputation has been built on client satisfaction

With over 30 years’ experience, AENGUS OATES FINANCIAL SERVICES offer bespoke solutions in an easy to understand manner with a personal touch

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel. (090) 6627878. Mobile (086) 2573358 info@oates.ie • www.oatesfinancialservices.ie

gage protection most people are paying much more for this cover than is necessary. Call us for a FREE quote! Income Protection As many employers no longer offer sick pay or if they do it is usually for a very short period, we can advise you on various Income Protection and Mortgage Income Protection plans available in the market place. Aengus Oates Financial Services is only a phone call away so give them a call on 090-6627878 or call into their office on Church Street in Roscommon Town. You can also visit their website at www. oatesfinancialservices.ie.

• Mortgage Protection • Family Protection • Income Protection • Retirement Planning • Inheritance Tax Planning • Lump Sum Investments • Regular Saving For a confidential chat, ring Aengus on (086) 2573358 or visit website www.oatesfinancialservices.ie

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

YOURMON€Y

Teagasc Clinics on Transferring the Family Farm – Roscommon/Longford area

Will be held on Thursday 15th October, in the Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon Clinic 1: 10.30am – 1.00pm Clinic 2: 2.00pm – 4.00pm Pre booking essential Professionals in attendance will include: • Accountants/Tax advisers • Solicitors • Succession mediators • Social welfare advisers • Citizens information • Teagasc Education officers / Collaborative farming / financial specialists

This is a free event and open to all family farms to attend. Tom Kellegher Regional Manager

IRENE J. HARRINGTON Chartered Certified Accountant All Accounting, book-keeping and related services available for Individuals and Companies – including Farm Accounts

Approachable Affordable just Ask ... Contactappointments Details Flexible to suit client Breedogue, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. P: 094 9872958 M: 086 8401187 E: ijhaccounts@eircom.net

Flexible appointments to suit client

Auction sales advice from Byrne Carolan Cunningham Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors are proud of their significant experience in all aspects of conveyancing transactions. Purchasing a property at public auction can be fraught with difficulty and it is advisable to expert advice well in advance of the property auction. There are a number of important issues to consider before you purchase a property at public auction. Once your bid is accepted, you are then legally bound to purchase the property. The Latin term ‘caveat emptor’ meaning ‘let the buyer beware’ is particularly relevant when buying a property at public auction.

The seller of a property is under no obligation to disclose defects attaching to a property, so it is paramount that a purchaser would satisfy himself of the condition of the property before purchasing. Consequently, the purchaser should ensure that all relevant checks and surveys – e.g. a structural survey – are carried out by a qualified professional before bidding on any property at public auction. It is advisable to engage a solicitor to establish that there are no legal or title problems affecting the property. Your solicitor will raise all necessary title queries on your behalf with solicitors for the vendor before the auction and will advise you accordingly. It is important to be aware of any potential title issue as this will obviously impact on your ability to sell the property in the future. If you are not a cash purchaser, it is essential

that you have the finance arranged to assist you in completing the purchase before the auction takes place. If you are the highest bidder (after the reserve price is met) on the day of the auction the property will be sold to you. You will be asked to immediately sign the contracts for sale and you will be obliged to pay a 10 per cent deposit. You will be asked to give one part contract for sale to your solicitor and the auctioneer will send the other part contract for sale to the seller’s solicitor. The contract for sale will usually specify a date for completion of the sale when the balance monies must be paid and you will receive the keys. For more information, call Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors on 090-6478433 (Athlone) or 090-6482090 (Moate). Alternatively, email info@bccsolicitors.ie or log on to www. bccsolicitors.com

Preparing for October tax deadline < PAUL FOXE

For people in business the stress and strain of getting your accounts and taxes in order for the October Income Tax deadline is all too familiar. Most are familiar with what is and isn’t a deductible expense when calculating your taxable profits. The overriding rule here is that an expense must be incurred ‘wholly and exclusively’ for the purpose of your trade or business. So basically anything you spend your hardearned cash on as a result

Kearney Naughton & Co Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors • Auditing • Accounts Preparation • Personal Tax • Corporation Tax • Tax Consultancy • New Business Start Up’s • Outsourcing • Bookkeeping • Vat returns • Payroll services

Dunluce House, Abbey Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 6626513 || Fax. 090 66 35912 || E-Mail. info@kearneynaughton.ie

of you operating your business should be deductible. The main exceptions to this are client entertainment and lunch/food expenses while at your normal place of work. For people who have rental property there is a restriction on the amount of mortgage interest that is deductible and the Local Property Tax as of yet is not deductible (the Government are coming under pressure to allow this as a deduction as a result of the Thornhill Report on Property Tax reform but as of yet it is disallowed, so watch out for this in future years). However while most people who operate businesses or own rental properties are used to claiming expenses with Revenue, the majority of normal PAYE workers who simply get their payslip each week or month don’t

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY …as they were saying! “Someone stole all my credit cards, but I won’t be reporting it. The thief spends less than my wife did” – Henny Youngman “It’s easy to meet expenses – everywhere we go, there they are” – Anonymous

realise that they too have a number of items that can be claimed as a deduction against the tax they paid via their payslips during the year. Medical expenses are the most common, with 20% of the cost being refundable in most cases. This applies to most medical costs including amounts spent on GP visits, consultants, hospital costs and prescribed medications from the pharmacy. If you don’t have a record of this, don’t worry, most doctor’s surgeries and pharmacies are able to give you a print-out or statement of your visits and prescriptions for the last few years – and remember, medical expenses can be claimed for the last four years which means a refund can be claimed on all expenses since 2011 if claimed by the end of 2015. For

those of you who had the good fortune of having a baby or two in the last four years, any maternity expenses you paid are also claimable. All of the above however excludes any amounts refunded to you by your health insurance. The other deductions and refunds that are also applicable to the PAYE worker are 3rd level tuition fees and any additional pension contributions made by yourself which you have not got the deduction for through your payslip. Another area where the normal PAYE worker sometimes leaves money with the taxman is if they only work part-time or have a low income while their spouse might be in full-time employment and have an income over €32,800 (for 2014). In this instance the couple should ensure they have allocated the tax bands and credits

correctly to maximise the 20% tax band available. In some instances this could save 21% in tax when you consider that income over your standard rate band is taxed at 41%. And one last point – for those of you who are filing income tax returns this October the deadline is extended to the 12th November 2015 if you can file AND pay your income tax online using Revenue’s ROS facility. If you have any questions or queries in relation to your tax or accounts please call us for an informal chat to see if we can help you in any way. * Paul Foxe is the owner and principal of Paul Foxe & Co., a Chartered Accountants and Tax Consultancy firm operating from Roscommon town serving the entire midlands region.

Paul Foxe Tel: 090 6600100 Mob: 087 6808589 E: paul@foxeaccountancy.ie 39A Main Street, Roscommon.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

YOURMON€Y Beneﬁts of good advice

How credit unions work Credit unions are financial co-operatives formed to facilitate members to save and lend to each other at fair and reasonable rates of interest. They are not-forprofit organisations with a volunteer ethos and community focus. You may become a member of a credit union if you have a common bond with other members. The most usual common bonds are: Community bond: where the members

all live or work in a particular locality Occupational bond: where all members are in the same profession or occupation or all work for the same employer Associational bond: where all the members are in the same society or association Each credit union is governed by its members, each of whom has one vote. The membership elects individual members to the board of the credit union. The board members are unpaid volunteer officers and they establish the policies under which the credit union operates. There are two main umbrella bodies for credit unions. Most, but not all, credit unions belong to one of these bodies. These bodies may have other rules by which their members must abide and may provide other services to credit union members.

There are many benefits to engaging an accountant/financial adviser. An accountant/financial adviser can save you time and money. Tips for Personal Finance Get paid what you’re worth. Spend less than you earn. Stick to a budget. Pay off credit card debt due to the high interest rate. Contribute to a retirement plan. Start a savings plan. Review your insurance coverages. Keep good records. Financial planning helps you to understand your current financial situation and proposed solution. Know the risks involved in starting a business. A business plan (which is a formal statement of a set of business goals) documents a set path of how to attain these goals and the necessary steps required. Financial advice for farmers If not registered for VAT, a farmer can still claim back the VAT on fencing, drainage, reclamation, construction, extension and alternation of a building or structure. Capital allowances can be claimed on fixed assets, to reduce profit therefore reducing tax due. Completing your tax returns There are different types of income. Income from trade/ profession, rental income, social welfare payments, D.I.R.T. Keeping good records assists in the completion of tax returns – bank statements, cheque books and receipts are essential in completing tax returns. Advice on taxation Make sure you inform your accountant/financial adviser if your personal circumstances change, to ensure the correct tax credits are claimed. Keep all medical receipts. Ensure that your P.30 and VAT returns are submitted by the deadline to prevent interest and penalties. Loans/Overdrafts Short, medium and long-term loans should be used for different types of purchase. Use overdraft for stock, medium term loans, for purchase of vans and office furniture, long term loans for plant and equipment. Inheritance Tax Since 2009 the amount which a person may receive taxfree by way of gift/inheritance has been dramatically reduced. Contact McGowan Accountancy for details (for any queries, contact us – see contact details in advertisement).

MCGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES

Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI • Financial Control • Completion of annual tax returns • Financial Advise • Financial Advise for farmers • Tax returns • Advise on Taxation • Training First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training for start your own business and basic computers and accounting. Also training in accountancy software

‘YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS’ Contact Nuala: 090 66 25818 or (086) 0352849 Email: mcgacco@gmail.com • Web: www.mcgowanaccounting.com

Byrne Carolan Cunningham See our column on Solicitors page 2

CONTACT OUR DEDICATED MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE DEPARTMENT FOR ADVICE Athlone • Moate • Lanesborough Athlone • Moate • Lanesborough • Galway • Tel: 090 647 8433 • Email: info@bccsolicitors.ie • website: www.bccsolicitors.com * *InIn contentious business, a solicitor contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate may fees orasother charges or proportion of any feesnot or calculate other charges a percentage as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement. award or settlement.

AIB GIVES YOU

A PERSONAL MORTGAGE ADVISOR TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH MICHELLE NEILAN OR CARMEL HARLOW CALL: 090 6626180 / 086 782 3616 OR EMAIL: 937142@AIB.IE DROP INTO AIB ROSCOMMON • WWW.AIB.IE

PUTTING DOWN ROOTS #backedbyAIB Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

YOURMON€Y GLENAMADDY Credit Union Ltd. CHURCH STREET, GLENAMADDY TEL. 094 9659599. FAX: 094 9638762 Also offices at Glinsk & Williamstown

• FEXCO Foreign Exchange • EFT To your Bank Account • We Accept Debit Card Payments • Pay your Bills, Top up your Phone, ESB Tokens • Motor, Home & Travel Insurance • We have Loans* for ALL Purposes (*T&C Apply) • Financial Advice Available

Sammy Saving Stamps/Adult Saving Stamps now available

Like Glenamaddy Credit Union on Facebook to enter draw to win 2 tickets for UEFA Qualifier Ireland v Germany

www.glenamaddycu.ie Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

To buy or lease? This may seem a very simple question but in many instances business owners should give greater consideration to it. The simple approach to it is if I had the money I would buy the property. If I don’t have the money then I will have to rent it. However, arguably much more consideration should be given to whether or not a business owner should rent a business premises, given the legal obligation the follow from a Lease. < SEAN MAHON

Mobile: +353 86 1771683 Mobile: +353 86 1771683 Tel: +353 71 96 30688 Tel: +353 71 96 30688 Fax: +353 30688 Fax: +353 7171 9696 30688 Email: tracy@tbfs.ie Email: tracy@tbfs.ie Web: www.tbfs.ie Web: www.tbfs.ie

Main Street Main Street Elphin Elphin Roscommon Co.Co. Roscommon

Tracy Beine T/A Tracy Beirne financial Services is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

Noel Carr CASTLE STREET, ROSCOMMON

Accountants

Phone: (090) 66 26073 Fax: (090) 66 25023 E: noelcarr@eircom.net

Lanesboro/ Ballyleague Credit Union Tel. (043) 3321431 • Fax: (043) 3321488 Email: info@lanesboroballyleaguecu.ie OPENING HOURS Tuesday & Wednesday, 10am-3pm; Thursday & Friday: 10am-7pm; Saturday: 10am-1pm Follow us on FACEBOOK

Serving the community for 48 years

OUR LOAN BOOK IS OPEN New Loan Product: Secured loan

5% Interest Rate (5.13% Apr.) Lanesboro/Ballyleague Credit Union Ltd. is regulated by The Central Bank of Ireland

Before you enter into a long term full repairing and insuring Lease (FRI Lease) you must consider how much it will cost you over the term of the Lease both in terms of rent, but also in terms of repair, maintenance and insurance. With a short term letting agreement the main expense is the rent. Assuming that the term of the Lease will be for more than five years you will need to consider whether or not you should be negotiating a break clause and whether or not you wish to acquire statutory rights to a renewal of the Lease. Also, the issue of whether or not Vat will be chargeable on the rent is something that should be considered for longer term Leases. Another important consideration is who will be responsible for repairing the property. If it is that the Lease is for a term in excess of five years then the tenant will ordinarily be responsible. If the Lease is for less than five years then ordinarily the tenant will only be responsible for internal repairs. This is particularly relevant if the property being leased is an old building. There could be problems with

the building that would not be immediately apparent which could involve significant costs. Once it is that you have signed the FRI Lease then you, the Tenant, are responsible for the repairs. Also if it is a full FRI Lease then the Tenant will either be obliged to put in place buildings insurance or more likely required to pay the premium by the Landlord to his Insurance Company. Again the premium can vary wildly and will depend on whether or not there were previous claims and also on the nature of the business and the building. If it is that the Tenant is paying the insurance premium then it is essential that the Tenant, prior to entering into the Lease, is aware of the nature of the Policy and what the likely premium is going to be. In the normal course of a letting the Tenant would be responsible for putting in place a Policy of Insurance to cover against Public Liability, Employers Liability and the contents but they would not (excepting where there is a FRI Lease) have to pay the Buildings Insurance. What is the impact of carrying out works to the property? Do I need the Landlords consent to it? If I am improving the

building am I potentially creating a situation that the Landlord will seek a higher rent when the rent review comes up? These are all matters that should be given serious consideration. If you decide to retire can you sell on your Leasehold interest to another party? This is something that will arise where it is that the Tenant has been in the property for a long period of time and had a business interest in it. In normal circumstances a Tenant can assign/sell their interest in the Lease to a third party but you need the Landlords consent. A normal FRI Lease provides that the Landlords consent cannot be withheld unreasonably. However, what reasonableness is depends on the circumstances of each case. A couple of other matters that will arise in certain instances are Services Charges and Personal Guarantees. Whether or not there are service charges will depend on the nature of the property being rented and whether or not there are common areas and or a Management Company. You will need to know what the service charges are before you enter into the Lease. If it is that you are taking

the property in the name of a Company then the Landlord may require you to give a Personal Guarantee in respect of the Company’s liabilities under the FRI Lease. This will serve to remove the protection that you would ordinarily have if you operate your business through a Limited Liability Company. Essentially if the Company cannot pay what they owe the Landlord then the Landlord can pursue the individual guarantor for any loss incurred by a failure on the part of the Tenant Company to meet their obligations under the Lease. It is important that you know and fully understand that the Landlord can

pursue you if it is that you breach the terms of the Lease and hand back the property. You are liable for the rent for the entire term of the Lease and this could run to a significant sum of money. All of the foregoing are reasons why you should carefully consider whether or not it is preferable to purchase a property instead of leasing one. For advice contact Marie Conroy or Sean Mahon at Mahon Sweeney Solicitors, Main Street, Roscommon T. (090) 6627350 · 6626102· Main Street, Elphin, T. (071) · 9635024 · e: mail@mahonsweeney.ie w: www. mahonsweeney.ie or find us on facebook.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

YOURMON€Y

Bank of Ireland hosting Mortgage Open Days in Roscommon branch Bank of Ireland is hosting mortgage open days on Saturday 19th and Saturday 26th September in its branch on Main Street in Roscommon. Michéal Curley, Bank of Ireland’s Commercial Branch Manager in Roscommon said “We are opening our doors for the next two Saturdays to facilitate people who can’t get in to see us during the week. “We want to show that, when it comes to mortgage lending, Bank of Ireland goes out of its way to make things as easy as possible – and that applies if you are already a Bank of Ireland customer or not.” Bank of Ireland is currently paying its mortgage customers 2% of their mortgage as Cashback. Available on new mortgages taken out up to 31st December, the Cashback offer

FARM TAX SPECIALISTS Local Service - National Back-up oIÀceV nationZiGe - ZZZ iIac ie

is worth €4,000 on a €200,000 mortgage and it applies to First Time Buyers, Movers, Buy to Let, Equity Release and SelfBuilds. Mortgage holders who switch their mortgage from another provider to the Bank by the end of the year are also eligible for the 2% Cashback offer. Other features of Bank of Ireland’s mortgage proposition include fast mortgage approval (not just approval in principle), 250 branches countrywide staffed by professionally qualified mortgage advisors, mobile mortgage managers who can meet customers anywhere and

anytime – including at weekends – and ‘House-Hunter’ mortgage approval that lets customers search for their new home knowing their finance is in place. “We welcome anyone thinking of buying, moving or improving their home to join us for what we know will be very enjoyable and informative days. Customers who are unable to make one of our open days in our Roscommon branch can also visit our dedicated mortgage advisors in our branches in Strokestown, Elphin and Castlerea,” concluded Michéal Curley.

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County Roscommon Credit Unions exist to serve their members, providing a great place to save money and access affordable loans. So if you are planning for your future whether it’s big or small why not call us to discuss your needs today!

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Loans are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. Credit Unions in the Republic of Ireland are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

coroscommoncus.ie

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

YOURMON€Y

Registered Auditors, Accountants and Tax Advisors

Accountants, Business Consultants, Taxation Advisors

You Have Come to the Right Place if you Want:

To Pay Less Tax To Save Money Professionals who Work with You Are You: …… Starting out in Business? …… Struggling with your tax return? …… Looking for a pro-active accountant who’ll help you make more profit and pay less tax? Looking for Accountants that are well versed in Business Development, Accountancy, Auditing and Taxation related matters? Bernard J Morahan & Co is intent on providing you with the highest quality and most beneficial results.

Saving You Money is Our Priority

Ballinagare, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Tel (00353) 094 9870388 Fax (00353) 094 9870445 enquiries@morahan.ie

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY

…as they were saying!

“Money is like a sixth sense – and you can’t make use of the other five without it” – William Somerset Maugham

“What’s worth doing is worth doing for money” – Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas) Wall Street

“Money, if it does not bring you happiness, will at least help you be miserable in comfort” – Helen Gurley Brown

“Money is not the most important thing in the world. Love is. Fortunately, I love money” – Jackie Mason

Making a Will You have worked hard all your life building up your farm and/or business and/ or saving to provide for yourself and maybe a family. Have you thought about what would happen in the awful event that you met with a fatal accident and the one thing you hadn’t done was make your will? < SEAN MAHON

Local Enterprise Office Roscommon Local Enterprise Office Roscommon serves as a first stop shop to provide support and services to start, grow and develop micro business in County Roscommon. The Key Objectives of LEO Roscommon are to provide:

• • • • • • •

Business Information and Advice Mentoring Training Financial Supports Networking Local Economic Development Services Enterprise Education

For more information, logon to: www.localenterprise.ie/roscommon or Phone: 090 66 26263 Email: localenterprise@roscommoncoco.ie European Union European Regional Development Fund

If you haven’t made a will and there are property and assets in your sole name, then the law sets out how your property is to be passed on. If you are married but have no children, then your spouse gets everything. If there is a spouse and children, then your spouse is entitled to twothirds and your children to one third in equal shares between them. You may have intended leaving everything to your spouse, but now the children have a legal entitlement to a one third share. This will cause difficulties where any of the children are under 18 or all the children cannot agree as to what should happen to their one third share. If you want to be in charge of what happens to any assets which are in your sole name after your death, then you must make a will. When you have young children you should cater for the unthinkable and make a will which deals with the situation where both you and your spouse die together. You should think about whom you would wish to appoint as Executor/ Trustees of your estate and also whom to appoint as guardians of your infant children. So whether you are twenty three or sixty three, if you have something to pass on, then you should make a will. It is also important to keep in mind that the will you make when you are young or newly married will need to be amended to reflect your

changed financial and family circumstances over the years. Come in and see us to discuss your own situation and take a great weight off your mind by finally getting a will made.

Enduring Power of Attorney You have now made your will, but there is another issue that should be addressed by all of us. What happens should you no longer have the mental capacity to look after your affairs? You may be asset rich but cash poor and should there be a requirement for expensive long term care, it will not be possible for your spouse or loved ones to sell property and liquidate assets held in your name either solely or jointly with your spouse to pay for this care, because you lack the capacity to sign a legal document. The assets are there but the cash can’t be unlocked. There is a legal document called an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) which has built in safeguards which ensure that the power vested in the Attorney cannot be used without legitimate reasons. With this document you appoint someone (the Attorney) often a spouse or son or daughter to look after your affairs if you become incapable of doing so. You also nominate two people who are known as Notice Parties who are informed by registered post at the beginning of the process that you have signed this EPA. Your doctor and solicitor must also sign

Certificates stating that you fully understand what you are signing at the time. Nothing further happens and will never happen while you continue to be capable of looking after your own affairs. If your Attorney decides down the road that you are no longer capable of looking after your affairs, then he/she must register the EPA with the High Court and the two Notice Parties are informed immediately by registered post. If they do not agree with this assessment of your capacity then they will object on your behalf. This is a much better system than being made a Ward of Court which is extreme but was the only channel available to hard pressed families before the introduction of the Nursing Home Support Scheme (Fair Deal Scheme). So signing an Enduring Power of Attorney simply means that you are ensuring that you are in control of your own destiny. In many cases it will never be registered or required but it means that while you are in the whole of your health you decide who to trust to look after your best interests for a time when you can no longer look after this yourself. For advice contact Marie Conroy or Sean Mahon at Mahon Sweeney Solicitors, Main Street, Roscommon T. (090) 6627350 · 6626102· Main Street, Elphin, T. (071) · 9635024 · e: mail@ mahonsweeney.ie w: www. mahonsweeney.ie or find us on facebook.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

YOURMON€Y

• Audit & Accounts • Tax • New Business Start up • Consultancy • Corporate and Personal Insolvency BOYLE & SLIGO EMAIL: INFO@MULHERNLEONARD.IE Web: www.mulhernleonard.ie

Farmers – here’s how to reduce your October income tax payments

< TOMMIE FALLON, BRANCH MANAGER, IFAC ROSCOMMON

Profits from most Irish farm enterprises will be significantly less in 2015 than in 2014 while farmers still have to meet increasing ongoing day to day farm costs, bank repayments and personal living costs.

This will impact on cash availability, therefore minimising your 2015 tax payments is vital.

Farmers have options in reducing their 2015 tax payments Farmers can reduce their cash outflow on Income Tax payments due in October/November provided they are properly advised on the options available to them. There are three available options in arriving at the minimum 2015 tax payment which will avoid interest charges and they are; • 90% of what the eventual 2015 Income Tax bill will be. • 100% of the 2014 tax bill. • 105% of the 2013 tax bill provided tax is paid by direct debit instalments. In most cases 90% of the tax that will eventually be due for 2015 will be the most advantageous option but as we are only just over half way through 2015 this figure has to be estimated. It is therefore vital for you to meet with your accountant now in order to plan and project your eventual 2015 farm income and therefore your eventual tax payment.

Issues to be addressed now to reduce your October tax payment As outlined above it is vital to meet with your accountant now in order to shape your 2015 tax bill. For cash strapped farmers the option of additional capital expenditure and hefty pension payments in order to minimise tax should be the last resort. Within IFAC Accountants we strive to maximise the amount of cash retained within the farming enterprise. Examples of some options we consider in the pre-year-end tax planning service are as follows: • If not availing of farm income averaging, would opting for it bring benefits to you in 2015? • For farmers availing of income averaging, if profits are falling, would opting off averaging be beneficial? • What level of stock at the year-end will maxim-

ise entitlement to Stock Relief • Would it be wasted in 2015 and better maximised in 2016? • If, due to losses or low income, you’re not likely to absorb your personal Income Tax credits could profits be increased in the current year? E.G: Postpone expenditure to next year e.g. repairs, fertiliser, etc. Postpone capital expenditure to the following year. • For farmers with a taxable income, would any of the following commercial decisions convert income which would otherwise be taxable at the top Income Tax rate/standard rate to a lower rate or zero? Bring forward expenditure e.g. repairs, fertiliser etc. If commercially advisable defer sales until after the year end. Bring forward expenditure and capital work to the current year.

• Can Income Tax exemption on long leases of farmland be used to convert existing taxable leasing income into tax exempt income? These are but a few of the options open to a farmer in determining their 2015 Income Tax bill. Does the 2015 profit projection take a long time? No, within IFAC Accountants we have, as part of our normal service, mobile book-keepers calling to the farm during the year to record the business transactions on computer. Because this information is available on an up to date basis the full year picture can be projected quickly and accurately thereby enabling the farmer to determine their Income Tax and allowances and therefore their tax bill. Be prepared – take action now before the tax horse has bolted and control your October tax bill.

Looking for a Mortgage with a difference? Come along to our Mortgage Event Saturday Openings

JIM O’KELLY Benchmark Financial Services BMW Ltd. Offering independent financial advice

The Square, Ballaghaderreen Tel. 094-9862840 Mob. 086-8596919 Email: bfsbmw@eircom.net Benchmark Finance Services BMW Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

Venue:

Bank of Ireland Roscommon

Date:

Saturday 19th & 26th September 2015

Time:

10am - 2pm

Talk to Eilish Kelly or Pauline Mc Govern Mortgage Advisor today 07662 41776 086 3620699 Lending criteria and terms and conditions apply. Security and insurance required. Maximum mortgage is generally 3.5 times gross annual income and 80% of the property value (90% of the property value up to €220,000 for First Time Buyers, 70% of the full property value for Buy to Let) but these limits may vary. A typical variable rate mortgage of €100,000 over 20 years costs €623.20 per month at Annual Percentage Rate (APR) 4.4%. A 1% interest rate rise will increase this repayment by €54.35 per month (APR 5.4%). The cost of your monthly repayments may increase - if you do not keep up your repayments you may lose your home. Bank of Ireland Mortgage Bank trading as Bank of Ireland Mortgages and The Mortgage Store is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

BOYLE 0719662940 SLIGO 0719142200 CONTACT: FREDA.MCGUIRE@MULHERNLEONARD.IE

The Square, Roscommon – Telephone 090 66 27356 WHY CHOOSE ULSTER BANK MORTGAGES?

• Quick Initial Decision • Appointment times to suit you

Ballaghaderreen & District Credit Union Ltd Ballaghaderreen & District Credit Union Limited is owned and run solely for the benefit of its members and is a not for profit organisation. Our aim is to deliver a friendly, efficient & quality service to our members at all times. Our loan book is open and we are lending to our members (Terms & Conditions Apply).

“For people. Not for profit.” Main Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon.

T: 094 98 60522 F: 094 98 60522 E: info@ballaghcu.com` Website: www.ballaghcu.com Find us on Facebook OPENING HOURS Mon, Tues, Thurs: 10.00 – 13.30, & 14.30 – 18.00 Wed: 10.00 – 13.30 Fri:10.00 – 13.30, 14.30 – 17.00 & 17.30 – 20.00 Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

YOURMON€Y Is there a secret to successful investing? People are saying to get into markets now – everything is up! Others say to wait?? What do I do?

We want our money to grow but are nervous about risk.

Markets go up and go down – how do we know the right thing to do? I don’t want all my eggs in one basket.

Everyone should be diversiﬁed! For many investors a key ingredient gredient to t successful ccessful investing has actually been diversifying your investment break.

When is the right time to invest?

This essentially means spreading your investment stment over a range of assets a so fluence on the overall return re of that no one asset has a significantly large influence the basket. ble today ay that can A wide range of investment solutions is available vesting. Options are help you diversify and share in the rewards of investing. available from very low risk to very high risk.

Four tips for saving for a mortgage The following steps could help you save over €3,000 a year without even impacting your lifestyle, and help you go a long way towards securing a deposit for a mortgage. Car costs

Talk to us today about how we can help your investment journey. 0906492664 090 6492664 info@planalife.ie www.planalife.ie Terms and conditions apply. Brendan J Kelly Insurance Broker/Business Consultant Ltd t/a Planalife is regulated by The Central Bank of Ireland

July 2014

302978 V1.07.14

Getting the right ﬁnancial advice from the right place It’s easy to choose a savings plan, a pension, an investment product or an insurance policy. It’s almost too easy, in fact. Just fill out the forms, hand over the money and it’s done – you’re away. It’s so easy, which is precisely why you need to stop and think hard about choosing any financial product, especially a pension or investment plan. Even someone working in the financial industry will take plenty of time to weigh up their options before choosing the one that’s right for them. Savings plans, pensions and investments come in all shapes and sizes, offering a wide variety of terms, risk levels, charges and potential returns. You even need to choose the right time: what might have made a good investment six months ago won’t necessarily be the right investment now, and vice versa. If you’re the type of person who enjoys getting all your facts together – researching the market, calling around the different financial houses, as well as developing a keen insight and understanding of the workings of the savings, pensions and investment markets – then maybe, just maybe, you’re the right person to choose the

plan or pension for you. What if there were people who would do all the hard work for you? Who would sit down with you and work out what your financial needs are? Who would know which financial company to turn to for the right savings or pension plan, the right investment fund? The good news is that there are such people. They’re called independent financial advisers, and it’s their job to do all the financial legwork for you and give you professional, impartial, financial advice. It’s what they’ve trained and studied for many years to do, which is why they can do it very, very well. A good professional adviser will certainly save you time. That’s because they’ll know straight away where to look for the right products. What you may not realise, however, is that using an independent financial adviser can also save you money, often quite a lot of money. That’s because they are duty-bound to give you what’s called ‘best advice’: the best product at the best price at the best time, to the best of their professional ability. This can save you a lot of money in terms of charges and fees and even tax.

What can we at Planalife offer you? It’s often the case that when you find

Cut your petrol costs by smarter driving and shopping around for fuel. Even an average car would burn up around €2,000 a year over 30,000km. But we can save 5c a litre just by shopping around for petrol, according to the National Consumer Agency. That would knock €127 a year off our bills. We can easily save another 10 per cent - or €200 - by smarter driving. That’s how much simple driving-efficiency tips saves the average motorist, according to research by the Automobile Association. It found that some canny drivers even managed to cut their fuel bills by up to a third - potentially saving over €600 every year. The tips are can be found in full on the AA website. Potential annual savings: €727

Insure savings A 25-year-old driver could save €625 a year on motor insurance, a 2013 survey by the National Consumer Agency found. Make a note of when your insurance is up for renewal and start comparing prices online a month earlier. In some cases you can save money on your insurance if you included a name driver on your policy. Also make sure you are not over estimating the resale value of your car as this could drive costs up. Check out the resale value of your car here. Potential annual saving: €625

Healthy option You can also save €675 a year by shopping around for health insurance costs, according to a report in the Irish Independent. You can easily compare plans online at the Health Insurance Authority’s website. Potential annual saving: €675

Pay off those pricey loans the right adviser, you’ll also find the right savings plan, pension or investment. For this reason and more, you’ll probably find yourself going on to trust that same adviser with your business for many years to come, and that together you’ll build a prosperous and rewarding financial future. We have found this to be the case

throughout the past 30 years and we pride ourselves on offering our clients full impartial advice on all financial products. To speak with one of our Qualified Financial Advisers call 09064 92664 or email info@planalife.ie. Brendan J Kelly Business Consultant/Insurance Broker Ltd, t/a Planalife, is regulated by The Central Bank of Ireland.

There’s little point in saving money, if you’re paying ten times more in interest to service a long-running credit card debt. Neither will outstanding loans and a credit card deep in the red do any favours to your mortgage application. If you’re indebted with expensive loans, try to pay them off as soon as you can. Paying off a €2,000 credit card debt (at 22.7% interest) would save you €434. Potential saving: €434.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NewsPeople

Major Glenamaddy Show launched < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

There was a huge turnout at the launch of the Glenamaddy District Ploughing & Agricultural Show at Glenamaddy Equestrian Centre last Thursday night. The show was revived last year: the 2014 edition was the first one held in Glenamaddy in 60 years. And this year’s edition will take place in the equestrian centre on Sunday, October 4, from 10.30 am to 5 pm. It looks set to be a wonderful event, with a range of competitions, activities and attractions for all visitors. A hugely-dedicated committee are eager to ensure it will rival many more established farm shows nationwide. Show chairman Seán Ganley said: “It will be one of the best farming events west of the Shannon.”

The equestrian centre and 30 acres of surrounding lands will once again play host to a range of attractions, including a top-class ploughing match, an indoor pedigree and commercial cattle show and a free play zone for kids. The ploughing championship, an official National Ploughing Association event, will be the centrepiece of the show. Mr Ganley said: “We’re fortunate to have access to one of the most ideal venues in Ireland – indeed, the equestrian centre here is the largest indoor arena in the west of Ireland. “A great group of volunteers from Glenamaddy, Clonberne, Kilkerrin, Glinsk and Williamstown have been working diligently and it’s great to see such a wonderful event emerging from that work.” Mr Ganley said that the show had received a huge

boost this year with the addition of the Comer Group, owned by Glenamaddy brother Luke and Brian Comer, as main sponsors. Mr Ganley said: “I would like to thank them for their generous support towards the staging of this event. It is greatly appreciated by all involved.” The show have named a new perpetual cup, for the overall champion of the livestock show, in honour of the Comers’ generous contribution. Mr Ganley added: “I would also like to pay tribute to the many business and families across the area who have so far generously provided additional sponsorship and support to the event.” The gate will open for exhibitors on show day at 8 am, with gates opening to the general public at 10.30 am. The official opening will take place at 1 pm.

Invitations extended for Famore School Reunion A total of 240 invitations have been extended in recent weeks to past pupils of the former Famore National School, Kiltoom, regarding the proposed reunion of past pupils in the Hodson Bay Hotel on Saturday August 13, 2016. The Famore NS Past Pupils Reunion Committee decided at a recent meeting to forward the initial invitations a year in advance so that those in the local community or travelling from within Ireland or overseas may make arrangements to stay over-night or for the weekend. The committee will issue further correspondence closer to the actual event. Famore NS closed in July 1981 when Ballybay NS became the new central school for the Kiltoom parish catchment. Three members of the O’ Sullivan family, originally of Moyvannion, Kiltoom, had a teaching link with the school for over half a century. The late Mrs Nora O’ Sullivan was its principal for many years and she was succeeded by her son, the late Jack O’ Sullivan, Lakelands, Athlone, as principal. He was nationally known in golfing circles and was succeeded as principal by his wife, the late Mrs Maura O’ Sullivan, who transferred to the teaching staff of Ballybay NS on its closure. The late Mrs Kathleen McKevitt, Famore, Kiltoom, was also attached to the teaching staff of the school for all of her teaching career. The Famore NS Reunion Organising Committee is comprised of: chairperson, Desmond Shine; secretary, Tommy Dolan; PRO, Brian Cunniffe; and Committee members, Barry Murray, Geraldine Kenny and Tommy Byrne.

High marks for Mark and Brendan!

Left to right: Proud Roscommon CBS Principal Fiona Gallagher, student Mark Kearney and Gerry McGarry, Deputy Principal of CBS.

Mark Kearney, 6th year Leaving Certificate student at Roscommon CBS, who excelled in his Leaving Certificate with 550 points, will be attending DCU to study Actuarial Mathematics. Mark, along with his fellow student Brendan Mullen, achieved the highest score in the CBS. Brendan will be studying Physiotherapy in UCD. The management and staff wish all the 2015 Leaving Certificate students the very best as they embark on their journey into third level education.

newsbriefs Corcoran clariﬁes comments Independent Alliance supporter Emmett Corcoran has clarified comments he made at this week’s ‘Tonight with Vincent Browne People’s Debate’ for the Roscommon-East Galway constituency. The former Independent Dail candidate commented on the night that “...it was an indictment… that it took two Independent TDs to represent the people of Leitrim & Roscommon…” The vocal independent political hopeful clarified his comment stating “Of course I meant it was an indictment of the party system that no party TD was on the main panel. As a huge supporter of Independent politics and in the general context of my comment, I think this was obvious. It was clumsy wording on my behalf, all the same I’d like to set the record straight; I’m delighted the people of this constituency have two independent TD’s representing us.” Corcoran concluded: “Both Michael Fitzmaurice and Denis Naughten performed very well and I hope the people of Roscommon-East Galway will see their way to re-electing them both.”

Roscommon Cancer Support fundraiser An event called ‘Glamorous Buttons and Bows’ will take place on Sunday, September 20, in the Hodson Bay Hotel, near Athlone, from noon to 5 pm. All proceeds go to Roscommon Cancer Support.

Roscommon ICMSA to meet tonight Roscommon ICMSA will meet in the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon town tonight (Thursday) at 8.30 pm, at a critical juncture for farming, with the dairy and beef outlooks significantly grim. The meeting will be addressed by the president of the association, John Comer, and there’s sure to be an honest and forthright Q&A of the kind ICMSA has always encouraged.

Roscommon Solstice Choir seeks members Roscommon Solstice Choir is seeking enthusiastic new members for its Christmas 2015 Programme. If you are interested in singing with the choir please attend our registration and first practice session in Fourmilehouse (Kilbride) Community Centre next Sunday, 13th of September at 7.30 pm. All you need is a love of singing. Existing members please note time and date. All welcome.

Council allocate €60,000 for address light problems Local residents have expressed their anger at the flood that has developed in Shannon’s Cross, Loughglynn, in recent days.

Appreciation: The late Christy Hannon I was shocked and saddened to hear of the recent passing of Christy Hannon which followed a short illness. Christy Hannon was a teacher in the CBS Roscommon while I was there and he was a man who always had huge interest in history and in the GAA. He was a quiet, unassuming man and had a very gentle disposition. When I was in Roscommon CBS he was also involved in training the football and hurling teams in the school and the progress of CBS Roscommon and his beloved Oran GAA club was always uppermost in his mind.

Christy Hannon also has a great sense of history and he was a great man to organise anniversary celebrations for various teams who has won championships years ago and for various other local events as well. Indeed after this newspaper opened in 2007 Christy was a regular visitor to our offices. He brought in old photographs and newspaper articles and wrote several historical pieces about the local area over the years. I met Christy on the day Roscommon CBS contested the All-Ireland colleges ‘A’ football final this year and there was no prouder man in Croke Park that day.

Christy Hannon passed away at University Hospital Galway on September 4th after a short illness. The huge crowds who attended the removal, requiem Mass and burial were a testament to the esteem in which the late Christy Hannon was held, not only throughout the county, but much further afield. Christy Hannon is mourned by his brothers Anthony, Billy, Noel, Michael, Charles and Stephen and sisters Teresa and Anne and by many other relatives and friends. May he rest in peace. – Seamus Duke

Roscommon County Council have allocated €60,000 towards addressing street lighting issues in unfinished housing estates. The money has been divided between the county’s three municipal districts, with Boyle, Castlerea and Roscommon assigned €20,000 each. Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice, the chairman of the council’s strategic policy committee, has urged residents to contact the local authority if they come across lights that have blown. He said: “This money was for bulb maintenance only. If there is a housing estate within Co. Roscommon which has not been taken in charge and there is power in the lighting columns, but the bulbs have blown in anything from one to all of the lights, this fund can be used to replace those bulbs via the council contractor, Electric Skyline.”

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

FarmingPeople

(Serving Farmers for over 56 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Bullocks, Heifers, & Dry Cows Each Friday – 11 a.m. ---------------------

Fall /Autumn Extra Special Sale of Bullocks (due to the large entry) Tomorrow Friday, September 18th at 11 a.m. 80 pens on offer - Also Heifers & Dry Cows ---------------------

Harvest Special Sale of Heifers Friday, September 25th at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15th, Wednesday, September 16th and Thursday, September 17th by phone, email or calling to the office. Also Bullocks & Dry Cows ---------------------

Harvest Special Sale of Bullocks Friday, October 2nd at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22nd Wednesday, September 23rd and Thursday, September 24th by phone, email or calling to the office. Also Heifers & Dry Cows ---------------------

With election on the way, who will remember ‘The Forgotten Farmer’? Kenneth O’Brien, Head of ‘The Forgotten Farmer’, is one of the under 40s group who were left out of the official allocation for young farmers, and national reserve fund. Having held a public meeting in Athlone, attended by about 1,000 farmers, Kenneth set up ‘The Forgotten Farmer.’ It was agreed to lobby the farm organisations and Government, to help right the perceived injustice to the forgotten farmer. Kenneth outlined his case to the Roscommon Chairman of ICSA, Ger Grehan. Ger was sympathetic to their cause and said he would support the group in any way he could. Kenneth O’Brien, with some political help, next secured a meeting with Department of Agriculture officials in Portlaoise, with the

aim of establishing the number of young farmers that were affected. The Department estimated that there were in the region of 3,900 young farmers that came outside the official category. It would cost a maximum of €12 million per year to bring them up to the national average of about €250 per hector. Ger Grehan and other ICSA officials organised a meeting in June of the all-party agricultural Oireachtas committee in Leinster House. Kenneth and a delegation attended that meeting. In conversations Kenneth had with senior Department officials and the chairman of the Oireachtas agriculture committee Andrew Doyle, it was felt that there was a very real prospect of getting those farmers taken care of, out of the pool of money that was there from

the 2% young farmers reserve and the 3% national reserve. Both combined come to an estimated €60 million, which was taken from the €1.216 billion EU single farm payment. This is the money that goes to the single farm payment every year. In a press statement, Ger Grehan and Kenneth O’Brien say: “If established farmers cannot make a living without this farm payment, what chance has the young farmer, the lifeblood of this industry going forward? These young farmers don’t have any realistic chance of getting established and making an income, if they are not supported.“ The campaigners say that they learnt in July (from the Department) that there was nothing Minister Coveney could do as there

Castlerea Mart Report

Weanlings & Suckler Cows Each Tuesday 5 p.m. Included in sale Tuesday, September 29th 21 Excellent Quality 3rd & 4th Calvers Calving end of October onwards to AI Char Bull (FSZ & CSQ) and AI BB (AJY) & 3 Heifers in calf to AI sexed semen Simmental – Also 10 Springer Heifers – All in calf to easy calving Limousin Bulls (Rhf,Eby and Kjb) Calving Nov/Dec/Jan .AI certs and scanning certs with each Heifer All stock can be viewed on our website/facebook -------------

Show & Sale of Weanlings

Champion Shorthorn at Elphin Show is owned by Adrian Flatley, Kilkelly, Co. Mayo who is pictured receiving the Paddy Farrell Trophy, from Paddy. Also in picture is David Dillon (Judge). Photograph: Mary Regan.

Tuesday, October 6th at 5 p.m. Full details in next week’s issue -------------------------Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday – 11.am. Please note that Ewe Lambs will be sold separately. -----------Breeding Ewes & Ewe Hoggets Each Saturday – 11 a.m. Yard opens at 8.00 a.m. ---------------Sale of Pedigree Texels This Saturday, September 19th at 1 p.m. Also Show & Sale of Pedigree Lleyn Sheep 12 – 2 year old Ewes, 262 Shearling Ewes, 318 Ewe Lambs & 31 Rams. Show at 11.30 a.m. Sale at 1 p.m. ---------------Live streaming of sales in Ring 1 – see link on website or facebook

Mr. John Hanley, Roscommon IFA Co. Chairman has said that following the EU Council of Agriculture Ministers’ decision to allow an advance payment of 70% of the Basic Payment and Greening on 16th October next, it is now up to the Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney to ensure that this is delivered in full to farmers. Mr. Hanley said with severe income difficulties across all sectors, the earlier payment of 70% advance, compared to 50%, is welcome. Farmers now expect payments to be made in line with the deadlines set down in the new Charter of Rights. The IFA Co. Chairman also said the

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Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel. (071) 96 34783 and (071) 96 33344

TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 (090) 96 87651

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was insufficient funds to include them. Disappointed, the campaigners say: “Surely it cannot be fair to exclude one group of young farmers under 40 that started farming before 2008, and include another group which have been taken care of that started farming from 2008 on.” Ger Grehan and Kenneth O’Brien are now calling on politicians of every persuasion to come out and state their support publicly in order to “put the maximum pressure on the Minister and the Government.” This, they say, is crucially important now that a General Election is not very far off, adding “in the interests of natural justice, this wrong has to be put right once and for all.”

Now it’s up to Minister Coveney to deliver on payments – Hanley

Friday, September 11 There was another large entry of excellent quality cattle on offer at last Friday’s sale which included a special sale of Bullocks. Sales continue weekly on Fridays for bullocks, heifers and dry cows. Special sale of bullocks on Friday, September 18. Eighty-two Pens on offer. Also heifers and dry cows. As a result of the high volume of stock being offered for sale, an extra special sale for heifers will be held on Friday, September 25, at 11 am. (Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Tuesday Sept. 15th, Wed. Sept 16th and Thurs. Sept. 17th) Bookings by phone (0906626352). By email, roscommonmart@gmail.com or by calling to the office. New booking arrangements:

first payment due to farmers for the 2015 schemes is the Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC), which is due to be paid in the week beginning 21st September. Mr. Hanley said following on from the EU Council meeting, it should also be possible to pay agri-environment scheme payments such as AEOS in October, once the eligibility checks have been completed. Mr. Hanley said Direct Payments, which are worth around €1.65bn to farmers in 2015, are a vital income lifeline to most farmers. Timely payments must be the priority for Minister Coveney, he concluded.

please note, bookings for all special sales will be accepted up to 5 pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays the week prior to the sale. The draw for the pens will take place on Thursday at 5 pm. Draw System for starting pen on sale days: The draw for the starting pen will be made at 10.45 am on Friday’s and 4.45 pm on Tuesday’s. The first number drawn will be the starting pen and a second draw will be made to determine whether the draw will go up or down. Breeding ewes – Saturday, September 12 There was another large entry of breeding ewes and hoggets on offer at last Saturday’s sale. There was a similar trade for breeding ewes. Saturday sales continue weekly.

Cattle Sale, 10/9/15: There were 600 cattle on offer with bigger numbers of weanlings on offer and a strong demand for the quality weanlings – especially the lighter lots – with strong farmer and exports buying. Heifers and dry cows were similar in price to the previous weeks with prices for the quality lots maintained and plainer lots a little easier. Sample prices HEIFERS: Lim 400kgs €1150 Ch 425kgs €1070 Ch 490kgs €1275 Ch 445kgs €1240 Ch 480kgs €1255 Ch 650kgs €1485 Lim 565kgs €1390. DRY COWS: Ch 670kgs €1850 Lim 835kgs €1695 Lim 770kgs €1685 Lim 660kgs €1255 Sim 855kgs €1555. Cows with calves @ foot made from €980 to €2200 for a Ch cow and her bull calf at foot. Springers made from €1000 to €1880. Calves made from €310 to €850 for stronger continental types. WEANLING BULLS: Lim 285kgs €950 Ch 290kgs €895 Ch 385kgs €1200 Lim 480kgs €1195 Lim 525kgs €1295. WEANLING HEIFERS: Ch 270kgs €870 Ch 265kgs €810 Ch 325kgs €925 BBx 400kgs €1190. Bullock Sale, 7/9/15: 190 bullocks on offer with bullocks making from €400 to €860. Sample prices Ch 480kgs €1340 Lim 460kgs €1290 Lim 545kgs €1390 Ch 555kgs €1400 Ch 705kgs €1555. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday 17th with a sale of heifers, cows, calves and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

Gates open at 8 am. Sale commences at 11 am. Sale of pedigree texel rams – Saturday, September 19, at 1 pm. Also show and sale of Lleyn pedigree sheep. Show at 11.30 am. Sale at 1 pm. Show and Sale Weanlings Tuesday Septemer 15th 2015 There was a nice entry of Weanlings on offer at Tuesday’s weekly sale. Tuesday sale continue weekly at 5 pm. for weanlings and suckler cows. Tuesday, September 29: special entry of 21 excellent third and fourth calvers, calving end of October onwards. Next show and sale of weanlings, Tuesday, October 6, at 5 pm. Details of all sales on www.roscommonmart.ie or Facebook. Live streaming of sales from ring 1. Sheep Sale – Wednesday, Sep-

tember 16 There was another large entry of sheep on offer at this week’s sale. The trade for finished lambs remains solid with no major change in prices. Weekly sales for sheep continue on Wednesdays at 11 am. Please note ewe lambs will be sold separately to Wether/Ram lambs. Draw for the starting pens. The draw for the starting pen will be held at 10.45 am. A second draw will take place to determine whether the draw will go up or down. Breeding ewes sales continue weekly on Saturdays at 11 am. Gate opens at 8 am. Sale of Pedigree texel rams this Saturday, September 19. Also show and sale of lleyn sheep show at 11.30 a.m. Sale at 1 p.m.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

FarmingPeople

PropertyPeople www.propertypartners.ie

ANNUAL SHOW & SALE

Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon. Tel. 090 66 26579. Fax: 090 66 25405. EMAIL: jearley@propertypartners.ie

OF MALES AND FEMALES at Roscommon Mart Saturday Sept 19th

PUBLIC AUCTION NOTICE LEADING TOWN CENTRE PUB/ RESTAURANT AND (QUINNTINS) FUNCTION ROOM WITH 9 BEDROOMS ON UPPER FLOORS INCORPORATING 1 BEDROOM APARTMENT “REGANS”

Sale at 1.30 approx (Immediately after Breeding Sheep Sale) Enquiries 086 8546772 or 090 6626352

LOCATED AT THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TOWN. Public Auction on the premises at 4pm on Friday 9th October 2015 (unless previously sold) Pictured at the recent Property Partners AGM and Conference which was held in Killarney, are Local Property Partners Auctioneers Joe Reynolds, Donegal; Gareth Loftus, Mayo and Mark Mullholland, Sligo. Front row: John Earley, Roscommon; Emma Gill, Mayo and Galway and Ronan Long, Tuam, Galway.

Serving Farmers since 1985

THINKING OF FORESTRY:

• Tax Free Annual payment up to €635/ha • Full grant to cover planting costs • Harvesting/Forest Roads/Felling License • Group Forest Insurance Scheme

Colm Freyne BSc (Forestry)

Galway/Roscommon Ph: 087-6606043

Call in to our office at the Mart in Ballinrobe or call:

Tel: 094 9542668 www.westernforestry.com

Castlerea Co-operative Livestock Mart Ltd. TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com PROPERTY SERVICES PROVIDERS LICENCE NO. 002249 MONDAY WEEKLY:

BULLOCK SALE THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS FORTHCOMING SHOWS AND SALES THURSDAY 24TH SEPTEMBER: WEANLING SHOW AND SALE (OTHER THAN B B ) MONDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER: CONTINENTAL BULLOCK SHOW AND SALE THURSDAY 1ST OCTOBER: CONTINENTAL HEIFER SHOW AND SALE AND BELGIAN BLUE WEANLING SHOW AND SALE MONDAY 5TH OCTOBER: AA BULLOCK SHOW AND SALE THURSDAY 8TH OCTOBER: AA HEIFER SHOW AND SALE SATURDAY 10TH OCTOBER: ORGANIC WEANLING SALE IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR SATURDAY WEANLING SALE SATURDAY 17TH OCTOBER: MOYSIDE/CROGHAN SHORTHORN CLUB WILL HOLD THEIR SHOW AND SALE OF SHORTHORNS SATURDAY 14TH NOVEMBER: HORSE SALE

FOR ENQUIRIES PLEASE CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO VIEW OUR AUTUMN SALES

Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Final offers over €100,000 sought for prime Creggs house and lands John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon is this week inviting final offers after €100,000 for a highly attractive 3 B/R detached two storey residence of c. 1,400 sq.ft standing on c. 10.2 acres located at Gurrane South, Creggs, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as “A highly attractive holding of lands with the benefit of a 3 B/R detached two storey residence standing thereon located in a select residential countryside location close to Creggs village.

The said house and lands can be sold in one or more lots should market interest dictate and are set out as follows – Lot 1: The entire; Lot 2: Residence standing on c. 1 acre; Lot 3: c. 4.86 acres to the rear of the said residence; Lot 4: c. 4.34 acres on the opposite side of the public roadway. To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www. propertypartners.ie.

Prime lands new to the market with Property Partners Earley John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon are this week offering new to the market a prime parcel of roadside lands set out in two lots containing c. 7.1 acres with the benefit of P/P thereon for four two-storey residences located at Rookwood or Bellagad, Ballygar, Co. Galway. Price guide: €75,000 ono to sell (entire). John says this is an “attractive parcel of lands located in this much sought after residential location convenient to both Athleague and Ballygar with the benefit of planning permission thereon for four detached two-storey houses. “The lands are set out in two lots on opposite sides of the crossroads and can be sold in one or more lots should market interest dictate.” To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 0906626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

witnessed a big improvement in market sentiment and as a consequence, the results from same have increased significantly. Properties of all types such as residential, commercial, public houses and farm lands are being sought in the current climate and with one of the biggest databases of clients and under-bidders, Property Partners Earley are best

Renowned trading house located on the Square. The said property benefits from a high volume of local and passing traffic in this rapidly expanding shopping town with many new developments ongoing. Excellent turnover figures have been recorded with potential to expand further. The said property is serviced by a storage area at the rear. A once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire one of the leading trading houses in Roscommon town on the Square. Enquiries invited and viewing strictly by appointment. BER: D1. LEGAL: BILLY BRANDON, MESSERS PATRICK J. NEILAN & CO, SOLICITORS, ROSCOMMON 090 66 26245. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

A PRIME 4 B/R DORMER STYLE RESIDENCE STANDING ON C. 0.29 OF AN ACRE LOCATED AT

ROVERKILLY, RAHARA, CO. ROSCOMMON AMV: €50,000 to sell

A prime 4 B/R dormer style residence located close to Rahara, Athleague and Roscommon town which is in need of renovation throughout. The auctioneers now invite immediate enquiry and offers to sell. BER C2. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

A PRIMELY LOCATED AND ESTABLISHED COMMERCIAL PROPERTY KNOWN AS

“PJ NEWMAN MENSWEAR” TOGETHER WITH 4 B/R RESIDENTIAL

Property Partners Earley listing for their forthcoming multi lot auction Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are now listing for their forthcoming multi lot auction. They are pleased to advise that they already have a number of quality properties listed from farm lands to investment properties. Following on from a number of successful public auctions over the past number of months, Property Partner Earley have

Minimum reserve not to exceed €250,000 + VAT if applicable

placed in the market to get your property sold and they offer a free appraisal service. For further details or for a free appraisal of your property contact John Earley, FIPAV or David Diffley, MIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090-6626579, email jearley@propertypartners. ie, or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

ACCOMMODATION AND 1 B/R APARTMENT LOCATED AT ST PATRICK STREET, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

Price Region: Price Region: €150,000 O.N.O TO SELL

A renowned trading house with over c. 60 years of trade offering a prime location opposite the Church. An established business holding future potential due to location with the benefit of excellent residential accommodation, yard and extensive garden area to the rear. The joint selling agents now invite enquiries and viewings by appointment. BER: D2. Joint selling agents: Paul Lafferty, Messers James Cleary & Co, Castlerea. 094 96 20540. LEGAL: IVAN MORAN, MESSERS CLAFFEY GANNON & CO, CASTLEREA. 094 96 20007.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

PropertyPeople Luxurious property at Creggs Connaughton Auctioneers, Athleague have for sale a luxurious four-bedroom residence in excellent condition at ‘Stepping Stones’, Knockmaskehill, Creggs, Co. Galway. The property stands on a large corner site containing c. 1.2 acres, located convenient to Creggs, Glenamaddy, Glinsk and Kilkerrin. This property has been described as being finished to the highest of standards, boasts spacious living accommodation throughout and viewing comes highly recommended. Accommodation includes, Ground Floor: reception hallway, sitting room, kitchen/

dining/living room, bedroom/office, utility, bathroom, First Floor: three bedrooms with two en-suite and bathroom. For further details and viewing contact The Sole Selling Agents Connaughton Auctioneers on 0906663700.

Kiltoom House, Kiltoom

Land country residence in Kiltoom for sale NEW TO THE MARKET LANDMARK COUNTRY RESIDENCE ON C. 28 ACRES

“KILTOOM HOUSE”, ATHLONE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Unique property partially restored, comprising Landmark four bedroom residence together with associated courtyard featuring numerous outbuildings. To the rear is a majestic walled garden with outstanding stonework. The house stands on c. 28 acres of mature grassland with some really magnificent specimen hardwood trees and is accessed via a short avenue off the main Roscommon/ Athlone Road being five minutes from Athlone Town Centre. PRICE REGION: €350,000

FOR SALE QUALITY 4 BEDROOM BUNGALOW

JAMESTOWN, BALLYFORAN, CO. ROSCOMMON

Quality 4 Bedroom Bungalow situated in a quiet countryside area located one mile from Four Roads Village and twelve miles each from the towns of Athlone Roscommon and Ballinasloe. Situated on a landscaped three quarter acre site, this fine property is finished to a high standard by its present owners. Price Region: €175,000

FOR SALE “LANDMARK RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY”

CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN A character two storey residence located on a large site area in the centre of Roscommon town. The residence comprises entrance porch / entrance hallway, sitting room, living room, kitchen, dining room, utility, pantry, downstairs toilet. On the first floor are four large bedrooms and family bathroom. Many attractive features include designed sash windows, wrought iron railings to the front and large private garden to the rear. Price Region: €170,000 Church Street, Roscommon town, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 6627878. FAX: 090 6627877 E-mail info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

The Manse, Northgate Street, Athlone, CO. WESTMEATH TEL: 090 6477500. FAX: 090 6477546 E-mail athlone@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

A landmark south Roscommon residence, called Kiltoom House, Kiltoom, which is situated on 28 acres, has come on the market with Oates Auctioneers in Roscommon town. This unique property is partially restored. There are four bedrooms, together with associated courtyard featuring numerous outbuildings. To the rear is a majestic walled garden with outstanding stonework. The house stands on about 28 acres of mature grassland with some really magnificent specimen hardwood trees and is accessed via a short avenue off the main Roscommon/ Athlone Road, being five minutes from Athlone town. This is a truly once-ina-lifetime opportunity to acquire a landmark country residence for which the auctioneers invites viewings and offers. The house was built in about 1760, originating from an old stone slated cottage, to what it is today. The property and lands were acquired at this time by a man named Crofton Kelly, whose son Edmund was a very successful solicitor. Edmund married a lady by the name of Sarah Birch from the UK, which at the time caused great controversy in the area. The Kelly estate at this time was vast; it is believed that there were over 2,000 acres of land in their possession at this time. Edmund died in 1845 and in 1856 the land and house at Kiltoom were left to Thomas H. Strevans. The Strevans resided at Kiltoom House until the 1970s

and the house there after fell into what it is today. The main entrance door was set in a rounded porch that went up into a v-shaped roof, ivy and creepers-covered the walls. From a small entrance hall a lovely curving staircase led upstairs where a corridor ran past the bedrooms that all looked out on the back. Downstairs were two staff rooms, the drawing room, the study at the back of the entrance hall and dining room, with scullery downstairs and bathroom upstairs looking onto the back. The three receptions contained lovely period marble fireplaces. In the mid eighteen hundreds a two storey addition was built containing more bedrooms, kitchen, pantry, boiler house etc. At the back of the house was a lovely oldworld walled garden, comprising fruit and kitchen gardens, and from it an ornamental iron gate led to the farmyard with its fine cut stone stables, piggery and out-offices. The long avenue leading to the house from the AthloneRoscommon road, one gravelled path led right to the farmyard and another left to the kitchen quarters. The main entrance gate was set in a stone wall topped with an ornamental railing, and between it and the house was the flower, rose and shrub garden. This property has a price guide of €350,000. For more information, call Oates Auctioneers on Church Street, Roscommon town, on 090-6627878.

No. 2 Goldsmith Drive, Elphin, Co. Roscommon.

Attractive residence in Elphin Connaughton Auctioneers in Athleague have for sale an attractive three-bedroom two storey semi-detached residence at No. 2 Goldsmith Drive, Elphin, Co. Roscommon. The property is built and finished to a very high standard and is located in a seven-house development, fully complete and within walking distance of all amenities.

●

Accommodation includes, Ground Floor: reception hallway, sitting room, kitchen/ dining room, utility, toilet, First Floor: three bedrooms in all with one en-suite and bathroom. Viewing comes highly recommended and can be arranged by contacting the office on 090-6663700.

PROPERTY SALES ● LETTINGS ● VALUATIONS

Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel. (090) 6663700. Mob. (086) 8985013.

www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

FINAL OFFERS INVITED BY 5PM FRIDAY 2ND OCTOBER c. 11.37 ACRES AT CULLEENOOLAGH, DYSART, CO. ROSCOMMON

• Prime parcel of lands containing c. 11.37 acres • Located on the main Dysart/Athlone road after Cam Hill • The said lands are situated in renowned farming district • Ideal for adjoining landowners ALL OFFERS TO SELL Final offers invited by 5pm Friday 2nd October For further details contact the office on 090 6663700

FINAL OFFERS INVITED BY 5PM FRIDAY 25TH SEPTEMBER FOUR BEDROOM RESIDENCE AT CLOONCON WEST, GLENAMADDY, CO. GALWAY • Very spacious four bedroom residence • In excellent condition throughout • Standing on a large site c. 0.6 acres • Within walking distance of Glenamaddy Town • Built to a very high standard For further details and to arrange a viewing contact the office on 090 6663700.

FINAL OFFERS INVITED BY 5PM FRIDAY 25TH SEPTEMBER

THINKING OF SELLING?

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

PropertyPeople On the books of Hughes & Co

Two-bed apartment in Castlerea could sell for as little as €10,000 A two-bedroom apartment in Castlerea could sell for as little as €10,000 at an Allsop auction on October 1. The property is located at Riverside Apartments, off Main Street, and measures about 1,200 sq. ft. It will carry a reserve price of between €10,000 and €20,000 when it goes under the virtual hammer in the online auction.

Prime property in Roscommon town Connaughton Auctioneers, Athleague are excited to announce a fine property coming on the open market for sale. The property is located at Castle Street, Roscommon town, within walking distance of all amenities. The property is described as being a prime four-bedroomed two-storey residence with unrivalled views of Roscommon Castle standing on a c. 0.25 acre mature private site in a much sought after location of Roscommon town. Viewing is strictly by appointment only. Contact the office on 090-6663700 for further information/viewing.

This week Hughes & Company are confirming that they have on offer at Church Street, Roscommon a circa 3,500 sq. ft. unit of office space suitable for conversion to other uses subject to planning permission being granted. It was formerly the old AIB. Pat is confirming that they are accepting every offer in excess of €250,000 for this fine landmark property. They also have at Roxboro, Roscommon a three-bedroomed cottage on a circa oneacre elevated site located only two miles from Roscommon town. Pat is considering every offer in excess of €65,000 for this fine property. On offer this week with the company is an attractive three-bedroomed townhouse located convenient to all amenities. The residence is been sold fully furnished. The first offer of €75,000 secures. Farms for sale Pat Hughes & Company have for sale at Morganstown, Athleague circa 55 acres of top quality land with excellent road frontage. The lands have the benefit of a number of stables, three-bay hayshed, lean-to and an all-weather sand arena. For further details on this property please feel free to contact the office on 0906627003 or email phughes2@eircom.net. For sale at Porteen, Dysart is a circa 20acre residential farm. The lands can be sold in different lots to suit prospective purchasers. Hughes & Company are offering for sale at Carrowmoney, Rahara, Roscommon circa 60 acres of top quality agricultural land with the advantage of extensive road frontage with excellent views of the surrounding countryside and the River Shannon. The lands are located approximately two

miles off the main Athlone to Roscommon Road. This would be an ideal opportunity for someone looking to increase their holding or to purchase a nice compact farm located in one lot. Pat is confirming that they can sell the property in separate lots if required. Recent sales with the company include: a two-bed, two-storey residence at Donamon, Roscommon; a three-bedroomed residence on circa one acre at Castleblakney, Co. Galway and a 15-acre residential farm at the Glebe, Caltra, Co. Galway. Pat can confirm that the company have sold a number of houses in Roscommon town over the last number of weeks. The company is now urgently looking for all types of properties to sell. Pat is confirming that they have a number of disappointed under-bidders that are anxious to acquire a property. Pat is also confirming that they have a number of interested parties in investment-type properties in and around Roscommon town. For further details on all properties for sale with Hughes & Company please contact the office on 090-6627003 or email phughes2@eircom.net.

Roxboro, Roscommon

– SALES BY – PAT HUGHES & CO. LTD. AUCTIONEER & VALUER ABBEY ST., ROSCOMMON. TEL: 090 66 27003 FAX: 090 66 26296 EMAIL: phughes2@eircom.net

LANDS TO LET At Fuerty, Roscommon – circa 30 acres of uncut meadow with a cattle pen & crush At Fuerty, Roscommon – circa 25 acres of uncut meadow At Racecourse Road, Roscommon – circa 60 acres of uncut meadow. Suitable for winterage. Convenient to Ballinaheglish, Roscommon – circa 8 acres of aftergrass and approximately circa 25 acres of meadow suitable for grazing until 20th December At Mullymux, Roscommon – circa 35 acres of aftergrass. Sheep Only -------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET: For Sale at KILTULTOGUE, BALLINAHEGLISH, ROSCOMMON

Old AIB, Church Street, Roscommon town.

Circa 11 acres of top quality agricultural land. The land is very well fenced with mains water. All of the lands are of top quality. It is an ideal opportunity for someone to acquire a nice compact area of top quality land in a renowned farming area.

QUALITY AGRICULTURAL LAND

PRIME RESIDENTIAL SITE

FINAL OFFERS INVITED

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY

Lands at Creevyquin & Carrowmore, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon

Arm, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Land for Sale Fairymount, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Unit 12 Lakeside Retail Park, Claremorris, Co. Mayo

c. 8 Acres of land with Outbuildings/Stable facilities situated there on. Located in Fairymount, Castlerea, Co.Roscommon. Please contact REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town ofﬁce on 0906 630001 OPEN TO OFFERS

Investment Opportunity 2 storey end of terrace retail warehouse extending to a Gross Internal Area of approximately 478sq.m. (5,141sq.ft.) incorporating offices, toilets and kitchen facilities. The property is fitted with a mix of timber floors and carpet, suspended ceiling tiles, recessed florescent light fittings and electric storage heating. Windows and doors are double glazed. The ceiling height ranges between 2.7metres to 3.6metres over ground and 1st floor. The property benefits from 2 access points, a tiled reception area and lift. By appointment only, please contact REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town office on 0906 630001 GUIDE PRICE: €90,000

c.28 Acres of Top Quality Agricultural Land with Traditional Style Cottage (unhabitable) situated thereon and turf bank.Select parcel of ground within close proximity to Roscommon Town. Please contact REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon Town ofﬁce on 0906 630001 OPEN TO OFFERS

Prime Residential Site with Full Planning Permission for the Construction of Two Detached Dwelling Houses, connection into Public Sewer and all Ancillary Site works. Opposite Castlerea Golf Club and within 2 minute walk from Castlerea’s Main Street and all its amenities. Please contact REA Seamus Carthy, Castlerea ofﬁce on 0949 625990 OPEN TO OFFERS

GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN MAIN STREET, CASTLEREA TOWN

T: 090 66 30001 T: 094 96 25990

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

NewsPeople Udo’s Oil – the Omega Fats that keeps you Healthy!

FRANKLY SPEAKING

€5 OFF with Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies & Health Stores

Frank Brandon’s unique take on life ...

Would you believe that there are fats that are absolutely essential for our body to function? Without them, we could not live! Many people believe that avoiding all fats is the path to true health, but in reality we need fats to live. Fatty acids are essential; we cannot make them so we have to obtain them from our diet. Our diets have changed so much over the last 150 years, so much so that 90% of Irish people are now deficient in Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs), especially Omega 3, which is down to poor food choices and food processing. We need to ensure that we get the right Omega fats from our diet every day. An easy way to do this is with Udo’s Oil; it is the richest vegetarian source of omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids available in Ireland in the perfect 2:1:1 ratio. These wondrous essential fatty acids play a vital role in skin, joint, brain and heart health to help you look and feel amazing, inside and out. Udo’s Oil combines only the very best natural ingredients. It contains flax seed oil which has twice the omega 3 of fish oils. Traditionally used in cooking across India and China, sesame oil is rich in omega 6 and vitamins A, B and E while sunflower seed oil, another great omega 6 source, enhances the taste. It also features coconut oil of the very highest quality to help protect the heart. Evening primrose oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory; soy lecithin helps brain cells and nerves; rice bran oil contains cholesterol lowering sterols and tocotrienol acts as a powerful, natural anti-oxidant. Udo’s Oil is available in all Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacies & Health Stores with €5 OFF, now just €20.99 – only while stocks last.

Refugees, rugby and why Dubs copied Creggs on backpass rule

newsbriefs Roscommon to feature on ‘Nationwide’ on Friday A number of locations in Co. Roscommon will feature on RTÉ 1’s Nationwide on Friday night at 7 pm. The film crew came to the county recently and filmed Castlecoote House, together with the new bridge going into the house. The programme will also feature Lough Key Forest Park, the Elphin Windmill and Rathcroghan.

Coffee Morning in Athleague Sally Ann and Pat Hanley, their family and friends are hosting a Coffee Morning in aid of Roscommon/Mayo Hospice palliative care service in the Heritage & Angling Centre, Athleague on Thursday 17th of September from 9 am to 6 pm. Please come along and support this worthy cause. Looking forward to seeing you all on the day.

Healing Mass in Curraghboy A Healing Mass of the Family Tree will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea Healing Centre, Curraghboy, near Athlone, on Friday, September 25, commencing at 8 pm. The celebrant will be Fr John Walsh, from Limerick. Individual blessings for healing will take place afterwards.All are most welcome. Contact: 086-4054489.

A thank you from Roscommon SPCA Roscommon SPCA would like to say a very big thank you to all who donated to our recent street collection in Roscommon Town. We raised €763.61 to go towards animal welfare. We would also like to say a very big thank you to all the volunteers who helped us.

Wellness for Parents Wellness for Parents is a gentle, relaxed programme in a safe and confidential environment which will help you identity triggers of stress, develop an action plan and wellness tools to make life that bit easier. Wellness for Parents will take place in the Family Life Centre, Boyle commencing on Monday 21st of September from 10 am to 12.30 pm for four Mondays. For more information and to book a place contact Teresa O’Brien on 086-0291215 or email: teresa@ridc.ie

Castlerea CCE The next Castlerea CCE session will be on Friday 18th September at Doherty’s, starting around 9.30.

Last week another reader (that’s two definites), of this column rang me to comment on the Bishop of Elphin’s request for people in the diocese to open their doors to some of the Syrian refugees and he wondered would the clergy lead by example and open the doors of the many empty parochial houses that are lying idle all over the country. He also mentioned the numerous Garda Stations that have been closed over the last few years and he thought that their residences should also be made available to help the desperate migrants and felt that if all that was done, then the people as a whole would try to do their bit. Anyway I went to Mass in Kilbegnet on Sunday and I was pleased to hear our parish priest, Fr. McCarthy, say that he too thought unused parochial houses and large religious institutions, that now have very few occupants, should all be made available to provide safe and dry accommodation for some of the unfortunate Syrians. Now whether that will happen or not, I don’t know, but at least it was encouraging to hear that Fr. McCarthy agreed with my reader’s viewpoint and as I headed for home after the Mass, I felt that Ireland would do what it could to help out in this terrible crisis. However a friend of mine, by asking a very simple question, made me think again. Who’s going to pay to look after all these people, she asked (I do have an odd female friend!). Will they go straight on the Social Welfare? And if they do, will that be fair on the many Irish people who have to go through all kinds of interrogation and examination of bank accounts and all types of red tape to get, what in many cases, is their rightful assistance? Or will the communities who take them in be expected to raise funds to help to feed and clothe the refugees? Or will Europe make funds available to help out? I don’t know what’s going to happen but there’s a lot to be sorted out before we can look after thousands of these poor people.

Fundraising events Talking of fundraising I told you a few weeks ago that the annual dance (9th this year), that we run for Cancer Care West and the Lourdes Invalid Fund was in danger this year, due to the sad closure of Gannon’s in Creggs, but I am glad to say that we have found a new home and are going ahead with the dance in Dowd’s of Glinsk on Saturday, October 10th when the wonderful Frank Nelson and his band will provide the entertainment. As usual, we will hit the road with tickets in the next week or two, so despite the huge demands on everybody’s finances, please give what you can to help these exceptional local charities. We’ll see you over the next couple of weeks and thank you in advance for your generosity. Sticking with charities, don’t forget the table quiz in aid of the Ray of Sunshine organisation, which is helping young girls (aged 3-16) who are being forced into sex trafficking in Kenya, which Tom Connolly is hosting in Mikeen’s on Friday night at 9.30 pm. Tables of four are only €20, there will be a raffle on the night and local man Batty Egan will be going to Kenya to help build houses for these poor, unfortunate girls, so

Pictured at the Strokestown Agricultural Show on Saturday last were Marie Connellan and Alma Kelly. Picture: Andrew Fox

if you can please get to Mikeen’s and support another worthy cause.

My World Cup tips (to be avoided)

Earlier on Friday night, the 2015 Rugby World Cup will kick off when the major hosts, England open the tournament as they face up to the Fijian Islanders in Twickenham at 8 pm, while our lads make their finals debut in Cardiff, against the underdogs from Canada the following day (Saturday 19th) at 2.30 pm. Now if you had been talking to me a couple of months ago, Irish rugby was at the top of the tree and confidence was sky-high and I would have said to you that we would definitely get to the semi-final and we could quite possibly end up as World Cup champions. Today, I am not quite as confident and I don’t think we’ll get past the quarter-finals, and I don’t see us among the four or five teams that can win the Webb Ellis Trophy. To nail my colours to the mast, I am almost afraid to say it, but I believe our neighbours across the water, England, not Wales, will end up as champions and just as in 2007 and 2011, we will wonder where and why it all went so wrong. The only consolation for all of you out there is that I would be the worst tipster of all time (as Paddy Power knows well), so it’s now almost certain we’ll win the whole thing and you should head off to the bookies and, whatever you do, don’t back England! Mikeen, our local publican and all his three children are off to Cardiff for Saturday’s game and while I sadly won’t be there, my heart will be in The Mochyn Du Pub. Please have a pint for me, Mikeen, and hopefully I will be proved wrong and the Boys in Green will do themselves and us proud!

Dubs copying Creggs on backpass rule Sticking with sport and last Saturday week

as Dublin ran down the clock in their victory over Mayo, and indeed all through the two games, they kept, as in soccer, passing the ball back to the goalie, and I realised that my own little club, Creggs, was responsible for this newest fashion, although we introduced it at least 40 years ago. It was in a game in Tulsk when our cornerback, Vincent Canny, surprised our legendary goalie, Sean ‘Bags’ Keegan by giving him an unexpected back-pass. When Bags got his clearance in, he proceeded to give poor Vincent an earful and you could say he turned the lovely Tulsk air blue! Little did we think that in 2015, the Dubs must have heard about it and are doing the same thing themselves, so we are true trailblazers and should get the recognition we deserve for changing the face of gaelic football! Talking of gaelic football, our lads are playing overwhelming favourites, Shannon Gaels in the County Junior semi-final in Kilbride on Saturday evening at 6.30 pm and we could certainly do with all the support we can get.

And ﬁnally… Finally for this week, I’m told that the great Fuerty stalwart (and by the way, well done to them for getting to the Intermediate football final), Liam Heaney, at the age of fifty plus, lined out in a recent Junior match against Oran and scored a point. I’m told both sets of supporters applauded, long and loud, and as one of the great gaelic football characters, it couldn’t happen to a nicer guy. I’ve no doubt Liam will continue to put on his football gear for many years to come and I wish him well! Will he line out in the Intermediate final? ‘Till next week, Bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

Business Ballaghaderreen water supply to be upgraded

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

Tel. (090) 6627878. Mobile (086) 2573358 info@oates.ie • www.oatesfinancialservices.ie

For a confidential chat, ring Aengus on (086) 2573358

Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice at Lough Gara, a water source which is due to be upgraded by the beginning of next year.

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

It is expected that the North Roscommon Water Supply will be upgraded in the near future and bring an end to the area’s longstanding water problems. The water supply, which serves Ballaghaderreen, Loughglynn and surrounding areas, is sourced from Lough Gara. The lake is a lowland lake and is at risk of pollution from both chemical and organic pollutants. A number of deficiencies have been identified with the scheme, resulting in taste, odour and colour problems with the water. However, these are soon to be addressed. In an email to Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice, Kieran Madden, of Roscommon

With over 30 years’ experience, Aengus Oates Financial Services provides expert financial advice and bespoke financial solutions to our highly valued clients

MONKSLAND AREA SURVEY 2015

BE INVOLVED IN YOUR AREA 1) What facilities/infrastructure would you consider beneficial in the area? (tick all applicable)

County Council’s water services division, said the local authority, with Irish Water, were finalising a contract to address these

issues. He wrote: “The closing date for receipt of tenders was July 2, with an expected completion date for works of Q1 2016.”

Cllr. Fitzmaurice, of Fianna Fáil, welcomed this, as did Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.

Mahon Sweeney Solicitors wins prestigious award Roscommon Town and Elphin Solicitors Mahon Sweeney have been awarded the prestigious Q6000 Quality Assurance Mark for Solicitors. Very few firms of Solicitors in Connacht have been awarded the Gold Standard. The Q6000 was awarded for “exceptional levels of client management”. Mahon Sweeney is a medium-sized firm of Solicitors with four Solicitors and eight support staff. The firm was formed in 2008 by Sean Mahon and Marie Conroy and is an amalgamation of Seán A. Mahon & Co., Lyster & Co. and the long-established firm of Solicitors, Farrell McDonnell Sweeney & Co, which traces its origins back to 1867. Over the years the firm has adapted to meet the changing needs of their clients and the challenging times of the recession. While the firm invested heavily in Case Management and IT systems in recent years it prides itself in the personal professional service it provides to its clients. Seán Mahon, managing partner, said: “We are delighted to have achieved the Q6000 award. “It is an important independent verification of our approach to client care and practice management and an affirmation of the hard work of all our staff in achieving this award. “It is vital that we can assure our clients that we do not just observe but exceed the best practice standards.” The award is one aspect of the firm’s development and is recognition of its attempts to ensure that its Solicitors and staff have the skill, expertise and experience to provide the highest standard of care to their clients. The Q6000 is an advanced practice, risk and quality management standard awarded to solicitors who have demonstrated exceptional levels of client care and practice management. The award follows a rigorous audit by the Institute of Legal Research and Standards. It provides independent verification of standards of

Garda Station

Fire Station

School

Sports Centre

Playing Fields

Bus Shelter

Amenity Park

Rail Station

Graveyard

Discount Supermarket

Church

2) Would you consider that there is a good choice of food/convenience shopping in the area?

Yes

3) Would you consider that another supermarket would be of benefit in the area?

Yes

4) How many times per week do you travel across town to shop in comparison food stores? Never

Once

Twice

More than Twice

5) What route do you most frequently use? The Old Dublin Road (12km)

The N6/M6 (16km)

6) If there was a discount supermarket / comparison food store in Monksland, what would you consider your savings would be PER WEEK? (including travel expenses) €0

>€5

>€10

>€15

>€20

>€30

€30+

7) Using the map as a guide; What location would you consider to be the centre of the Monksland area?

1) The Mill Bar Lorraine Miley, the office manager, and partners Seán Mahon and Marie Conroy, of Mahon Sweeney Solicitors with the prestigious Q6000 Quality Assurance Mark for Solicitors award that the firm won recently.

client care, file management, practice management, regulatory compliance, risk management, human resource, information technology and financial management. The Q6000 is considered the gold standard for Solicitors and Mahon Sweeney Solicitors achieved an exceptional 91 per cent. Mahon Sweeney Solicitors have offices at Main Street, Roscommon and Main Street, Elphin, County Roscommon www.mahonsweeney.ie. Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

2) River Village

3) Primary Care Centre

4) Pharmaplaz Site

5) Other

8) Would you consider the above location the most convenient for the development of a discount supermarket? Yes

9) No. of occupants in household:

1-2

2-3

10) Were you aware the draft area plan for Monksland is currently being prepared?

Yes

Name: ___________________________________ Signed: _________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ Date: ______________________

Please drop/post completed Survey into the Monksland Community Centre between 9am and 1 pm or to the Athlone Springs Hotel or Roscommon People offices, Abbey Street, Roscommon by 5.00 pm on Monday 21st September

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

Classifieds

Everyone wants it Everyone reads it 80,000 PEOPLE READ OUR NEWSPAPER EVERY WEEK!

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

WEEKEND ON CALL EMERGENCY ROTA From 6 pm Friday 18th to Monday 21st September for Medical Emergencies Please Contact WESTDOC FOR APPOINTMENT On: 1850 365 000 EMERGENCY SURGERIES WILL BE HELD ON SAT 11am TO 12 Noon OR 4pm TO 5pm AND SUN 11am TO 12 Noon.

All Patients must Contact WESTDOC on 1850 365 000 for an appointment for these surgery times.

DOCTOR SURGERY

NEW GP PRACTICE DR. ALEXANDRA ROBINSON G.P. ABBEY STREET MEDICAL CENTRE, ROSCOMMON (Has taken over Public patients from Dr. Carmody Morris)

Public and Private patients welcome FAMILY PLANNING SERVICE: Mirena Coil, Implanon, Copper Coil by appointment SURGERY HOURS: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday MORNINGS: 9.30-11.30am: Walk in Surgery AFTERNOONS: 2.30-4.30am: By appointment WEDNESDAY (AFTERNOON): CLOSED

FREE CAR PARK AVAILABLE AT REAR OF SURGERY

PHONE: 090 66 25650

DENTAL Dental Design Studio • Natural Cosmetic Dentures • Palate Free Dentures • Flexible Dentures • Repairs & Re-lines • Express replacement of lost/broken dentures

Patrick Lynch Clinical Dental Technician

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS ST. COMAN’S CLUB, ROSCOMMON

Tuesday 1pm; Tuesday 9pm; Thursday 1pm; Thursday 9pm; Saturday 8.30pm; Sunday 12 noon Phone: (01) 4538988 or (091) 767777.

Henry Street Medical Centre Roscommon TELEPHONE: 090 66 65917 087 228 8780

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

ACCOUNTS

CLOWN OR MAGICIAN AVAILABLE for Children’s Birthday Parties, Christenings, Creches, Communions, Weddings etc. Phone 087 6890161.

ACCOUNTANTS AND TAX ADVISERS To farmers and small businesses at fees that the small businessman can afford. Advice and consultations free. Pat Baxter & Company, Accounting Services, Clondra.

BOUNCING CASTLES ROSCOMMON CASTLES

Tel: (043) 3326125, (087) 2251591. Email: clondra@iol.ie Web: www.patbaxterco.ie

NEED HELP IN COMPLETING YOUR TAX RETURNS Eg. Farmers, B&B, Rental Income, help with school grant applications. Contact Margaret on 087 6430717.

ACUPUNCTURE

• New Crocodile 50ft Obstacle Course • Soccer Stadium • New Castles with slides - all weather obstacle courses • Pillow Basher and big slides

Phone No: (087) 4136355

BOUNCY BRIAN’S Bouncing Castles

KELLY’S EYE

Sligo I.T. Bus Service. Fully licensed Bus ServIce Starting Sunday 13th, September 2015 when colleges return. Servicing Ballygar, Roscommon, Tulsk and Boyle. Ballygar – 7pm Roscommon – 7.20pm Tulsk – 7.35 pm Boyle – 8.05 pm (Sunday Evenings) Returning from Sligo I.T. 1pm on Fridays direct to Boyle, Tulsk, Roscommon and Ballygar. Contact Kelly’s Eye Derrane, Roscommon on 087-2727888

CAREERS CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

Grace O’Reilly B.Sc. Psych., B.Comm., H.Dip. in Ed., MBPS & PSI Registered Occupational Psychometrician Assistance with: • Interview Preparation • CAO & UCAS Course Application • Subject & Course Choice • Study Skills / Exam Preparation

CONTACT: Abbeyside House, Abbey Street, Roscommon. Tel . 090-6630760. Email: abbeysidehouse@ eircom.net Opening Hours: 9 am - 5.30 pm, Mon-Fri.

ACUPUNCTURE Traditional Chinese Medicine Better Health Naturally Michael Lennon, Lic. Ac. Galway Road, Roscommon, Health Insurance approved (090) 6626023 (086) 8225575

BUS SERVICE

CHIMNEY • Castles • Castles with Slides • Slides • Obstacle Courses Good rates available

Contact: (089) 2527317

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time Please call us on 090-6634633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

CHIMNEY CLEANING & REPAIRS New power brush and vaccum technology Can clean from the bottom up, eliminating broken roof tiles. Also firebacks replaced and flues repaired. Fast efficient and no mess guaranteed. Carpentry and General Repairs TV Aerial and Satellite

Tel: 087 2798704

CHIMNEY CLEANING CHIMNEY CLEANING POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING Chimneys (Power Sweep and Vacuum - no mess) - Openfire - Stoves - Ranges Oil Boilers serviced and repaired Carpets and Upholstery cleaned Satellite and Digital TV Installation All areas covered Tel: 071 91 97984 Mob: 086 2495851 www.connaughtchimney cleaningservice.com

CHIROPODIST PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I. Department of Health Approved Every Monday - Cuan Aire Resource Centre, St. Patrick’s Street, Castlerea

COMPUTERS DC Computer Services Providing IT services for Homes, Businesses & Schools. Home Callouts. No Fix No Fee. PC Maintenance – Upgrades, Repairs, Virus & Spyware removal. Network Solutions – Cabling, Hardware & Software Installation & Maintenance. Contact David Conboy Tel: 087 7496459 Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

COUNSELLING COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY Are you effected by Anger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Confidence/self esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Call Billy (094) 96 59966 Mobile (086) 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

DRIVING LESSONS NOEL’S Driving School

• Home visits • Insoles and Orthotics prescribed

ADI/RSA Approved Driving Instructor Reg No. 37840

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Phone: (086) 8433433

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland

BUPA & VHI Covered

SYL’s

School of Motoring

Learn to drive from approved Driving Instructor SPECIAL RATES FOR BEGINNERS AND STUDENTS Gift vouchers now available

Call (085) 1348779

O TOW WI RN T TH EA SYL’s School of Motoring

Have you a licence to tow a trailer? Car/Jeep & Trailer Training available

For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233

CHIROPRACTOR

DRIVING LESSONS

DOCTORS’ ROTA

Tuition in Car Car available for test

EDT LESSONS AVAILABLE Contact: Noel Burke Ballintubber

087 6870248 www.noelsdrivingschool.ie Email: noelsdrivingschool@gmail. com

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON! The local paper!

Contact: 085 1348779

Paul McStay

DSA/ADI (UK) RSA MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

EDT Lessons Available Telephone: (094) 96 20099 Mobile: (086) 8936012 This driving School conforms for the new RSA regulations & legislation

DOCKERY’S SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

R.S.A. Approved Driving Instructor Tuition in Car Also 16 seater mini bus Car Available for Tests Gift Vouchers

(094) 98 80281/ (087) 2031909

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

Classifieds DRIVING LESSONS

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

Excellent pass rates CAR - 12 EDT LESSONS CAR & TRAILER (B&E) TRUCKS - RIGID, ARTIC & CPC

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TEL: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

Learn to drive with ....

Roscommon Driving School CONTACT: (090) 66 61102 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

ENTERTAINMENT < MUSIC WANTED for New Year’s Eve. Contact Kieran Leavy on 087 6025597.

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Webb’s Butcher’s 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715.

AGRI SHEDS Power washed and disinfected. Protect your livestock from infection. Keen rates.

Call 086 8770711. < STRAW FOR SALE: Barley straw - €12; Oaten straw - €10. ALSO round bales of silage. Tel: 086 1945562.

FOR HIRE RM TOOL HIRE Unit 1, Abbey Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon Hire – Sales – Repairs – Construction DIY & Garden Equipment Mini Digger Hire Tel: (090) 6630700 Mobile: (087) 8299628.

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: New complete double divan bed including leather base and headboard, memory foam pocket sprung mattress. Still in packaging. Retail €950, will sell for €240 including free delivery. Tel: 086 4438919.

GARDENING GATELY GARDENING Four Roads, Co. Roscommon • Landscaping • Timber Decking • Patios • General Maintenance Contact Liam on (086) 8749550 or (090) 66 27496

PARKLAWN TREE SERVICES • Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped. Comprehensive insurance cover. I.S.A. member. Telephone: (086) 6077307/(086) 8125165. www.parklawntreeservices.com

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE Woodchipping & Shredding Splitting service also available Insured and c2 Registered Contractor

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd., Creggs

WALTER BEGLEY Gardening, Maintenance & Painting Roscommon Town • Indoor & Outdoor Painting • Winter Garden Clean-Up • Power Washing Driveways - Paths • Prepare Lawns for Spring • Hedge Trimming • Planting • Grass Cutting • General Maintenance

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

HEALTH & WELL-BEING JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms • Sports Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Indian head Massage • Reiki • Aromatherapy Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon

(087) 9201818 Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

KENNELS HAPPY TAILS BOARDING KENNELS

● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

Appointments with Anne: Molloy’s Pharmacy, The Harrison Centre, Roscommon

Tel: 087 2721757 www.aobtherapies.com www.facebook.com/ AOBTherapies

HOLISTIC SEAMUS HUNT • Massage & Sports Therapist • Holistic Massage • Injury Assessment & Treatment • Ultrasound & Infra Red Available

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon Phone: (086) 1930766

KATHLEEN KELLY M.I.R.I.L. • Reflexology • Reiki • Indian Head and Shoulder Massage • Gift Vouchers Available • Evening appointments available

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon

Phone: (086) 3614230

IRONING SERVICE < IRONING SERVICE AVAILABLE: 18 Abbey Street, Roscommon. Call in or tel: 089 9883802.

KENNELS LISBROCK BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY Brideswell, Athlone, Co. Roscommon • Spacious Kennels provided • Spacious exercise areas outside • Short Term - Long Term boarding welcomed • Dogs walked on request. Micro-chipping service now available.

For further details contact Mary (087) 6162191 or Barra (087) 9764250. www.lisbrockkennels.ie Members of IBKCA

Lanesborough WHERE TAILS ARE ALWAYS HAPPY! • Large heated sleeping areas with large covered runs • Nine large play areas • Secure, Safe and fun for our guests Check out our website www.happytails boardingkennels.com 043 33 30804 083 0037577

LETTINGS < RETAIL UNIT TO LET in Athleague village. Approximately 800 sq. feet. Tel: 087 7735738.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic 18 years experience in treating babies to adults Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes Can we help you? Call us today to enquire

Ph. 090 663 0009 Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com

Located at Henry Street

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd., are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of John Keane for planning permission for the erection of a 2.4m security fence and erection of 2 bill board advertising signs to the rear of the site at Ballypheasan TD, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon Signed: Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd., CL Building, Racecourse Rd. Roscommon (Ph 090 66 65341) info@conlonconsulting.ie The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of James Cunningham for planning permission to construct a Slatted and Storage Shed, install a treatment system and percolation area and all associated site works at Lisfelim, Co Roscommon. Signed: Andrew Morris, Chartered Engineer, Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon, Ph Office: 090 6627950, www. morrislohan.ie

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Martin Dowd intend applying for planning permission on behalf of Benny and Liz Kelly to demolish existing habitable dwelling and to replace it with new dwelling house, use existing entrance onto public road, connect to existing sewage treatment system and percolation area, together with all associated site works at cordrumman Td, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Martin Dowd Rathcroghan Designs 086 2328484.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying on behalf of Matthew Burgoyne for planning permission for revisions to plans and elevations to that which differs from planning granted under PD13/156 and all associated site development works at Ballinagard Td., Co. Roscommon. Signed: AOL Design Ltd., Consulting Engineers, c/o Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 090 66 28184 Mobile: 086 8167365.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

MORRIS LOHAN Consulting Engineers Castle Street, Roscommon Phone: 090 66 27950 • PLANNING APPLICATIONS • ASSIGNED DESIGN & CERTIFIER ‘New Building Regs’ • BER RATINGS ‘Domestic & Commercial’ • STRUCTURAL & CONDITION SURVEYS • FIRE DESIGN CERTIFICATES

www.morrislohan.ie ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL NOTICE OF FURTHER INFORMATION We, CD Carrick Commercials Ltd., have submitted Significant Further Information to the planning authority in respect of our planning application Ref: PD/15/105 planning permission to construct a 1050sqm commercial testing and service centre and all associated site development works at Tullyleague Td, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Roscommon. The further information is available for inspection or purchase at the offices of the planning authority for a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 not later than two weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority. There will be no fee payable on a further submission/observation if it is accompanied by a copy of the acknowledgement of a previous submission/observation.

Signed: CD Carrick Commercials Ltd.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Brendan Doyle intend to apply for planning permission to Roscommon County Council for the following development: To construct a new 4 Bay Slatted Cattle Shed, a Farmyard Manure Storage Pit and a Cattle Handling Pen, together with all associated site works, at Moher Td., Ballyleague, Co Roscommon. Signed: P Durkan & Associates, Telephone: 071-9630037 Mobile: 086-1600385 Email: padraicdurkan@ eircom.net The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without condition, or may refuse to grant permission.

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON! Telephone: 090 66 34633 Email: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Call (086) 8212732. < ROOMS TO LET in house. Athlone Road, Roscommon town. Tel: 087 8048853. < HOUSE TO RENT: Bright, cheerful, fully furnished 4 bed bungalow, available for short-term rental, near Knockvicar. €600 per month. Phone: 087 2332184. < LARGE LUXURY TWO BED APARTMENT TO LET: Elphin Street, Strokestown. All mod cons. Tel: 087 2349881. < COTTAGE TO LET: Modern interior, two double bedrooms, solid fuel and OFCH. Own drive and gardens. Athleague area. Tel: 087 6522027.

PSYCHIC DOLORES PSYCHIC MEDIUM CLAIRVOYANT REIKI HEALER

• Tarot & Angel Card Reading • Honest & Confidential • Spiritual Guidance • Need Direction? Phone for an appointment - (090) 66 23898 or (085) 7857191

Athleague

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

Classifieds PSYCHIC FAIR < PSYCHIC HOLISTIC FAIR ON Sunday 27th September in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon, 11am - 6pm. Free admission. Contact 087 9538444 for more information.

REFLEXOLOGY

MARINA FUREY (MNRRI) Diploma Classical & African Reflexology/ B.Sc. (Honours) Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Eczema • Migraine • Back Problems • Gynaecological Disorders • Respiratory Disorders • Blood Pressure • Insomnia • Stress • Exam Stress • Bowel Disorders • Joint/Muscle Problems • Thyroid Imbalance • Colic • Pain Relief • Emotional Disorders - Hand Reflexology - Foot Reflexology - Infant/Child Reflexology Mobile Service Available Marina Furey, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Tel: 087 2264951 E: fureymarina@gmail.com

SITUATIONS VACANT < CHAINSAW OPERATORS/ CLIMBERS REQUIRED for ESB work. Must have UA1, NPTC, PICW and Safepass Certs. Contact Bernard Conroy, Timber Clearance Ltd., 087 2533101. LADY REQUIRED to provide care for elderly lady in lady’s own home. Contact Denis on 087 8194600 after 6pm. VACANCY HAS ARISEN FOR CARE ASSISTANT. FETAC Level 5 Care of the Elderly essential. Please forward CV to: Fearna Manor Nursing Home, Tarmon Road, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon or fearnamanor@outlook.ie < CHEF REQUIRED for busy pub/restaurant. Lunch time service. Work record and HACCP essential. No Sunday work. Replies to Derek at The Copper Still, Dromod on 087 2316115. HOUSE KEEPER REQUIRED to help keep a very busy household in Dysart clean and tidy. Required 3 days per week from 9:00 -13:00, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Must be fit, have own transport, have a ‘can do’ attitude and above all, be honest and reliable. To apply please call Aisling on 086 773 8000 weekday mornings.

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

SITUATIONS VACANT < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED for Saturdays for 2 children, aged 4 and 11. Approximately 9am-3pm. Might suit student. Roscommon town area. Please reply to Box No: 830, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < MAN REQUIRED for general yard duties to include cleaning and tidying up of yard. 20-24 hours per week. Tel: 090 66 26753.

SITUATIONS WANTED EXPERIENCED CHILDMINDER AVAILABLE in Roscommon Town. Available immediately. Tel: 087-3882079.

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

TUITION

TOM KILDUFF CABS

MATHS GRINDS REQUIRED for First Year student. Roscommon town area. Contact: 087 2446080.

Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

HACKNEY SERVICE Tommy Gilligan, Roscommon

(086) 8099503

Pete’s Cabs

< HOUSEKEEPER/CLEANER AVAILABLE to assist with housekeeping, cleaning, shopping and food preparation. Previous experience working with elderly people and children. Little bit of English, has driver’s licence with own car. Text 087 7217129 or phone 085 7123709.

Roscommon

< QUALIFIED CARER AVAILABLE for sleepovers/ companionship in Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Please reply to Box No: 831, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Peter Lynch 086 8400002

< BRAZILIAN WOMAN AVAILABLE for babysitting in the Roscommon area. Has experience and references available. Tel: 089 4138431.

Roscommon

SOULMATES SOULMATES - DON’T BE ALONE, LOVE IS ALL THERE IS: Find that special person for friendship and romance with likeminded people. Confidentiality assured. Tel: 087 9216302/087 7720250.

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS ROSCOMMON PHONE-A-CAB PADRAIG HEALY Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair accessible Call car direct

(086) 2714879

ATHLEAGUE CABS 1-8 Seats Wheelchair Accessible

PADDY PURCELL 087-3186590

– Contact –

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

TUITION < IRISH GRINDS AVAILABLE: Leaving Certificate and Junior Certificate. Experienced teacher. Call 087 0991074. < CASTLEREA AREA: Leaving/Junior Certificate Maths, Irish, French private tuition in your own home. Phone: 086-3282437. TRADITIONAL MUSIC TUITION – GROUP OR ONE TO ONE Classes for Banjo, Fiddle, Flute, Whistle and Concertina. Tuition and preparation for exams and competitions. All ages and levels catered for. Contact John 087-2239095 OR Breda 086-2287575 < MUSIC GRINDS: Leaving and junior cert music grinds offered for both Higher Level and Ordinary Levels. ALSO offered for non exam years and for students that cannot get music as a subject in school. Both individual and group grinds offered. All areas of the course covered by a qualified music teacher and examiner. For more info contact 086 2287575.

< MATHS GRINDS AVAILABLE: Junior and Leaving Certificate Higher and Ordinary level. Excellent results record. Experienced practicing teacher and exams corrector. Contact: 090 66 62234 after 6pm or 0864067270.

TURF, FIREWOOD AND FUEL < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned timber only €2 per bag, buy 20 bags get 2 free • Bags of top quality black turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • 8 x 4 trailer load of turf only €120 delivered • 10 x 6 box load of timber only €180 delivered • 1 Bags of BNM briquettes only €2.50 delivered • Tonne bags of turf and firewood only €35 delivered. • ALSO PACKAGE DEAL: 1 bale of briquettes, 1 bag of logs, 3 bags of turf delivered only €10. Price cannot be beaten. Contact Tom: 086 2628439. FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Ash, Whitethorn and kindling sticks. Stored in doors. Phone: 086-2437376. WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch, Sycamore and Whitethorn. Good price paid. We are safety certified and insured. Phone: 086 2437376. < FOR SALE: Bags of timber and turf. Loads of good black turf. Delivered. Tel: 086 2544294. < TURF FOR SALE: 10X6 loads and bags of turf, delivered. Tel: 086 3776948.

USEFUL SERVICES SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAINS JETTED & CLEANED Waste Collection Permit No: NWCPO-12-11038-01

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WASHING MACHINES, REPAIRS, DISHWASHERS REPAIRS, OVEN AND TUMBLE DRYER REPAIRS Contact Paul on (086) 0538977. www.appliance-repairs.ie

USEFUL SERVICES

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

CAN’T FIND ANYONE to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ...

WE DO ANYTHING From fitting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath • Fast Reliable Service • Professional, Courteous Employees • Trustworthy

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL ! 094 96 31880 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

PLUMBING & HEATING REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE SERVICE

• GAS/OIL BOILER SERVICING • GAS COOKER INSTALLATION • RGI AND OFTEC REGISTERED

CONTACT DAVID CLOGHER ON 086 3275919 RADIATOR

Magna Cleanse

PRO FLUSH

Clean Radiators = More Fuel Efficient Ronan Keane Telephone: 087 9131664 Email: proflushrads@ gmail.com

Glamorous Dogs FUERTY, ROSCOMMON

KESHIA CASEY

Professional Dog Groomer

USEFUL SERVICES < MAN AVAILABLE FOR flat roofing, roof lights fitted, re-roofing, facia board and gutter repairs, roofing, timber, slating, tiling, stone work, chimney repairs, Insurance claims handled, attic conversions, lights, general building, etc. All types of farm work, repairs to sheds, cattle crushes, yards, concrete, fencing and painting. Contact: 087 9188170. < FURNITURE REMOVALS DELIVERY SERVICE: Household and office furniture removals. Large and small loads to all areas. Phone for free quotation: 086 2649313. Email: homemoversrc@gmail. com < SHANE NAUGHTON ROOFING CONTRACTOR Roofing, slating, tiling, 1st and 2nd fixing and flooring. All aspects of carpentry and building undertaken. Tel: 086 3155329. < HANDYMAN AVAILABLE: All types of outdoor work undertaken – fencing, patios, power washing, hedge trimming, painting (internal & external). Tel 086 0815802 for quote. HAVE YOU GOT A house or garage that you want cleaned out and unwanted items removed. If so, ring 087 9657933.

WASTE MANAGEMENT

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

PUBLIC NOTICE FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 12/09/2015 FIRST PRIZE €60: Maura Quigley, Creevy SECOND PRIZE €30: Kirsty A Mee, c/o K. Collins THIRD PRIZE €20: Dervla Hoare, c/o K. Collins 10 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Mrs V. Kelly, c/o Tom Madden; Bernie Compton, c/o K. Hoare; Martina Brennan, c/o K. Finan; B. Dolan, c/o Marian Rice; Kirsty Mee, c/o K. Collins; Ben and Jack, c/o K. Hoare; Alan Oliver, c/o K. Collins; Declan Healy, The Square; Billy Connaughton, c/o Supervalu; Michael Oates, c/o Eight Til Late. 10 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Marian Rice; Dean Hoare; Rita Walsh; Ann Hynes, c/o Magnums; Breda Healy, The Square; Maria Tully, c/o Ros Veterinary Supplies; Maura Quigley; Rhea Hoare; Sean Tully; Kathleen Collins. TOTAL RECEIPTS: €332 TOTAL PRIZES: €260 FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 22/08/2015 FIRST PRIZE €60: Denis O’Shea, Abbeytown SECOND PRIZE €30: Kathleen and Dean, c/o K. Hoare THIRD PRIZE €20: Kathleen and Mary, c/o K. Hoare 10 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Anita Martin c/o Murray’s Pub, Castle Street; Eileen Kelly, c/o Breda Healy; Mattie Nevin, c/o Mary Hicks; Andrew Beirne, c/o K. Collins; Laura Gately, c/o K. Hoare; Noel Greaney, c/o K. Finan; Fiona Ralph, c/o Supervalu; Kathleen Hoare, c/o K. Collins; Jacinta & Alicia Ward, Goff Street; Rachel Connaughton, c/o K. Hoare. 10 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Joe Hoare; Callum Hoare; Daragh Ward, Goff Street; Rita Walsh; Kathleen Collins; Kathleen Hoare; Kathleen Collins; John Igoe; John F. Kerrigan; John F. Kerrigan. TOTAL RECEIPTS: €421 TOTAL PRIZES: €260

WINDOW CLEANING < WINDOW CLEANING: Competitive rates. All areas covered. Also Gutters/fascias. Contact John: (087) 2291931.

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

(087) 2731228

The local paper! OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

AtYourService BLINDS

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

PIO TULLY

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Tel: (090) 66 30521 Mobile: (086) 8115928

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

LANESBORO ROAD, ROSCOMMON. Tel.: 090 6625470 Mobile: 087 2869496

• Chimney Repairs • Removal of cracked flues and relining • Firebacks replaced • Free Insurance Quotations • Fully Insured

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS

fergalkelly@live.com

Fergal 086 1016899

Chimney Repairs Ireland ● Relining and

rebuilding ● Smoke and

soot problems solved ● Free estimates ● Free assistance with insurance claims ● CCTV Camera Inspection

Tel: Office 1800 283067 or mobile: (087) 7997671 or 087 2583483 www.chimneyrepairs.ie

- Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed For Professional Advice Contact: Tel: 090

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

WINDOWS AND DOORS

CLEANING

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Larkin Windows

STEPHEN HOARE

Contact

Ballinamuck, Co. Longford Tel. (043) 3324047Mobile: (086) 2513779

Manufacturers and installers of the latest designs and colours in uPVC window and door products and impressive composite door ranges

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

TEL: (090) 96 88606 (090) 96 88830 (090) 96 87651 Lowest price guaranteed

TARMACADAM

ELITE CHIMNEY REPAIRS • Lining • Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

CATHAL DOOLEY 087 6579064

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

INSULATION

Gerry Monaghan

TARMACADAM Contact: Gerry Monaghan

SERVICES: • Tarmacadam • Kerbing • Patio • Domestic & Commercial TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE GOVERNMENT HRI SCHEME

Contact us for further information Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon T: (090) 64 93386 M: (086) 8207242 E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net

CARPENTRY

● 20 year guarantee ● 25 years experience

FARMING

Call us today for free quotation or call and see our showroom

RECYCLING

Daily collection

CHIMNEY SWEEP • Open fire, stove, ranges • All flues and chimneys • Power brushed & vaccumed • No mess, no fuss • CCTV camera inspections • Detailed report and CCTV recording provided for insurance claims • Fully insured Also available for powerwashing and gutter cleaning

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness New Buildings & Retroﬁt Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Gary Jameson 2nd Fix Carpentry Munsboro, Roscommon • Fitted Kitchens & bedroom units • Doors, Timber Floors • Stairs

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie WINDOW/DOORS

Castlerea Vehicle Recycling All NCT Failures ● Destruction Certs Issued ● Sale of Second Hand Parts ● Contracted to all Major Car Companies ● Farm Machinery, Old Gates ● Metals, Iron Baths ● Old Cooking Ranges ● Weighbridge on Site ●

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES ROSCOMMON, WEST of IRELAND and BEYOND!!

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892

C ASTLEREA ELV RECYCLING LTD., CLOONKEEN, CASTLEREA KEVIN & MARTINA KEENAN TEL: 094 96 21250 MOB: 086 2522231

VETERINARY SUPPLIES & SERVICES

WINDOWS/DOORS

-VETERINARY CLINIC & Shop -

SHOWROOM:

Athlone Road, Roscommon Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors SPECIAL OFFER NOW ON NEW RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

• We supply and fit new & replacement energy efficient uPVC windows and doors • Large range of colours – FREE ADVICE AND ESTIMATES –

All Creatures Lanesboro Street, Roscommon. Tel/Fax: 090-6626898 SERVICES AVAILABLE: SHOP OPENING HOURS: • Gas Anaesthetic Monday to Friday, • Digital X-Ray 9am to 8.00pm; Saturday, 9am to 6.00pm • Bovine & Equine Scanning AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY • In-house Blood Testing 087 2596055 - 24 HOURS

• Grooming • All your Dosing & Mineral Requirements

PLEASE RING TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT Member of

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Donal Haughey - 086 8210710 www.roscommonwindows.ie

GLASS WORKS

Registered contractor for Home Renovation Incentive Scheme VETERINARY

Boyle Glass

Ballinameen, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071 96 68368 Mob: 087 6449709

(086) 0708833/ (090) 66 34426 TARMACADAM

Donamon

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS

Tarmacadam LTD

Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon Tel: 0906665555 Fax: 0906627653

• Door Handles • Door Locks • Letterboxes • Window Hinges • Patio Door Repairs • Misted Double Glazed Units

Specialising in Kerbing, Tar and Chips and Tarmacadam. Machine or hand laid.

• Digital X-Ray Facility • In house Blood Analysis • Small Animal Ultra-Sound • Gas Anaesthetic • Veterinary Kennel’s facility •24hrs Emergency Vet on call Clinic Hours: 2pm – 7pm Mon – Friday Office Hours: 9am – 7pm Mon - Friday PLEASE CALL TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT

Contact David Martin on (087) 9959417

• Carpets & Upholstery Cleaning • Leather Suites • WINDOW CLEANING • Rental Cleaning • POWER WASHING Fascias & Soffits • Gutters & Down pipes • Drive ways ‘paths and patios’ CAR VALETING

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

• Attic Conversions and all internal woodwork

Contact Damian at (087) 9962361

CLEANING SERVICES • ROSCOMMON

Stained Decorative and Frosted Glass (over 100 designs on display) We also manufacture: - Double Glazed units & Table Tops - Bevelled Glass/Mirrors and Wedding Mirrors - Toughed and Laminated Glass - STOVE GLASS & Fire Rated Glass - Glass Shelving - We also supply glass for stairs/balconies & painted glass splash back

Find us on: DoneDeal/boyleglass Monday-Friday 9-6pm Saturday 9-1pm After Hours by appointment

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

AtYourService/Classifieds/Appointments CARPENTRY

CHIMNEY REPAIRS AND SERVICES

Carpentry & Roofing

CHIMNEY REPAIRS & SERVICES • Relining • Rebuilding • Chimney Repairs • CCTV Surveys and reports • Insurance Quotes

• Roof, 1st & 2nd Fix • Slate & Tile • Sheeting & Cladding • Free Quotations • Extensions & Renovations Lisacul, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

M. 087 962 5391 • Fully Registered • Fully Insured

WANTED

Telephone: 086 2592002 CLEANING SERVICES

WANTED CARS, VANS, TRUCKS, 4X4s, BUSES, RUNNERS OR NON-RUNNERS. Also NCT and DOE Failures Anything considered

CONTACT: 087 3885054

WANTED CARAVANS ANY CONDITION, ANY SIZE CONTACT:

085 7652594

SPECIALISED EXTERIOR CLEANING Kilmore Utility Services Ltd

Contact Liam T: 086 8094679 E: kilmoreutilityservices@ gmail.com SERVICES INCLUDE: • Powerwashing Service • Commerical Buildings & Houses • Sheds • Patios • Driveways • Slatted Sheds • Grass Cutting

• SAORVIEW • FREEVIEW • Satellites • Aerials • Repairs • Installations • Upgrades • Multi-room • Free to Air • Retuning

AUCTION ROOMS

MAL HEVEHAN Auction Rooms th September FIRST FIRST SALE SALE 29th START START 7pm SHARP

Viewing from 20th September

Telephone: 086 8100292 TILING

BOOKINGS 087 4676308 MACHINERY

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Now accepting items for auction Also taking bookings for • Cars • Commercials • Farm Equipment • Tools • Machinery We are also available for House Clearances, Liquation Clearances and Sales

Tel: (094) 96 51889 (086) 2536105 Knockalaughta, Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Remodelling Bathrooms & En-suites, Plumbing, Tiling, Electrical, Drylining, Waterproof Tanking System in Showers & Wet Areas, Carpentry work. Also catered for Special Needs and all Tiling Needs.

ALL GRANT WORKS UNDERTAKEN QUOTATION FREE OF CHARGE

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2.30PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time Telephone: 090 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

THANKGIVINGS NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. PHILOMENA O FAITHFUL VIRGIN and glorious martyr, ST. Philomena, who works so many miracles on behalf of the poor and sorrowing, have pity on me. Thou knowest the multitude and diversity of my needs. Behold me at thy feet, full of misery, but full of hope. I entreat thy charity, O great Saint! Graciously hear me and obtain from God a favourable answer to the request, which I now humbly lay before thee (here specify your petition). I am firmly convinced that through thy merits, through the scorn, the sufferings and the death thou didst endndure, united to the merits of the Passion and death of Jesus, thy Spouse, I shall obtain what I ask of thee, and in the joy of my heart I will bless God, who is admirable in His Saints. Amen. M.H. UNFAILING NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I impore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Publication promised for a great favour received. A.G. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. A.G.

THANKGIVINGS PRAYER TO OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I Humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me this necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (say three times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (say three times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then publish and it will be granted to you. A.G. THANKSGIVING APOLOGY I just want to apologise to Saint Expedite for not doing all the things I promised to do. I am sorry from my heart and hope you can forgive me and accept my apology. I’m really sorry Saint Expedite. J.C. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. M.C. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Thanks also to Saint Clare and Our Lady. Publication promised for favours granted. K.A.E. THE MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. M.C. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. A.M.K.

Appointments

The

Bees Knees

Health Store

Unit 3, Ballygar, Co. Galway ARE SEEKING PART TIME STAFF Candidates must have a good knowledge and experience in Health Food Retail. Please Forward C.V. to The Bees Knees Health Store, Unit 3 High Street, Ballygar Co, Galway or Email beeskneesballygar@gmail.com.

MCSHARRY BROS. PLANT SALES LTD Exclusive Hitachi Dealer in Republic of Ireland

Fourmilehouse, Roscommon

REQUIRE FULL TIME TRAINEE FOR OUR HITACHI PARTS DEPARTMENT Computer and organisational skills essential

Application by CV only to skeane@mcsharryplant.ie

OFFICE ADMIN/ CUSTOMER SERVICE Vacancy available in Roscommon town To cover maternity leave for 10 months with view for vacancy after

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES LOHAN Paddy

GACQUIN Oliver

Racecourse Road, Roscommon (7th Anniversary)

Lysterfield, Curraghboy (5th Anniversary)

Cherished memories of a dear husband, father and brother. Loved and remembered by his wife Bridie, son Mark and daughter Jacqueline, brothers and sisters.

In loving memory of Oliver, who died on 22nd September 2010

May he Rest in Peace

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 19th September at 8.15 pm in St. Bridget’s Church, Fourmilehouse.

FINNEGAN M.J. Knockroe, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Who died on 24th September 2009 Rest In Peace (6th Anniveresary)

A little whisper on a September morning You heard a gentle call You took the hand of Jesus And quietly left us all. Our memories are our keepsake From which we never part God has you in His keeping, We have you in our hearts.

Lovingly remembered by Mary and family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 20th September at 12 noon in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea.

NERNEY Kitty and Jack Elphin, Co. Roscommon (4th & 45th Anniversaries)

May the Lord have mercy on the souls of Kitty and Jack Nerney, Elphin who died on the 11th September 2011 and 19th September 1970 Loved and forever missed by your loving family. Masses offered.

I lost my life’s companion Life linked with my own, Day to day I think of you, As I walk through life alone. The home you left is lonely, And I am lonely too, Those left behind are good and kind, But my heart aches for you.

Lovingly remembered by his wife Rosaleen and sons Colm and Raymond. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The years are swiftly passing, But still we don’t forget, For deep within our hearts, Your memory lingers yet.

Always remembered by his father John, mother Ellen, sister Maureen and brother Willie and family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 19th September at 8pm in Curraghboy Church.

CONBOY (nee Callaghan) Winnifred Stonepark, Galway Road Who died on 28th November 2014

Winnifred’s (Winnie) husband John (Jack), daughters Sharon and Colette, sons-in-law and grandchildren wish to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all who sympathised with us during our sad loss of Winnie. Our sincere thanks to Winnie’s friends and neighbours. Thank you to all who attended the Funeral Mass and Burial, those who travelled long distances. Thank you to all Winnie’s carers, Fr. McLoughlin, Tom and Pat Smyth Undertaker, and the gravediggers who prepared Winnie’s final resting place. We trust this acknowledgement will be accepted by all as a token of our gratitude and appreciation. Winnie’s Anniversary Mass is on 19th September at 8pm in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

McGOWAN Michael John Lack, Whitehall, Tarmonbarry Who died on 23rd April 2015

O’CONNOR (NEE MURRAY) Maud Mountcashel, Roscommon Who died on 18th September 2014 (1st Anniversary)

Those who die in grace Go no further from us than God And God is very near.

Remembered by her son, daughters, grandchildren and her sister Margaret. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 19th September 2015 at 8pm in St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh.

The family of the late Michael John, wish to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to everyone who sympathised with us on our sad loss. Thanks to all who called to his house, attended the Removal and Funeral Mass, sent Mass Cards and letters of symphaty and telephoned. Sincere thanks to Fr. Eamon O’Connor and Fr. Brendan Sullivan for the beautiful Mass. A special word of thanks to our neighbours and friends for their kindeness. Thank you to Tommy Crosby Undertaker and gravediggers in the dignified way the funeral was carried out. Thanks to Dr. Eugene Hardiman, Dr. Annette Rogers, district nurses, the medical staff of Mullingar and Beaumount Hospitals. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

RYAN Patrick J. (Paddy)

MERRIMAN Brendan

Late of Main Street and Corner Pharmacy, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Paddy passed away on September 20th, 2014

Ard-Na-Gréine, Roscommon 5th Anniversary – 19th September, 2010

His wife Mary, sons, John and Tom, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, sisters and extended family, sincerely thank those who sympathised with us on our great loss. Thank you for the Mass Cards, sympathy cards, letters, phone calls and messages of condolence. We are thankful to the large number of people who joined us for Paddy’s Removal and Funeral, many of whom travelled long distances. Boyle Golf Club provided a Guard of Honour at the Church; we thank you for this tribute to Paddy, a former Trustee, President and Captain. We also thank our neighbours on Main Street who lined the street for Paddy’s Funeral Cortege. We are grateful to Canon Gerry Hanly for making the Funeral Mass such a memorable occasion and to Boyle Musical Society for their wonderful musical contribution to the occasion. Thanks also to Fr John Coghlan and Fr Brian Conlon. Finally, thank you to Cathal and Mary Brady for their dignified handling of all Funeral arrangements. Please accept this acknowledgment as a token of our appreciation; the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. First Anniversary Mass in St Joseph’s Church, Boyle on Sunday 20th September at 9.30am.

TUCKER (nee Martin) Mary Lehery, Lanesboro 23rd September 2005 10th Anniversary

No more than a thought away, Loved and remembered every day.

Sadly missed by your loving family. Anniversary Mass on Friday 18th September at 10.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

LOHAN Katie (1st Anniversary)

Treasured memories of our loving parents, Tommy and Mae Egan, late of Ballyglass, Ballymoe, whose anniversaries occur on 31st July and 22nd September - R.I.P. Time slips by, another year gone, But in our hearts you still live on, Wonderful memories, still keep you both near, Every day of our lives, we wish you were here.

Loved and remembered always by your loving family. Anniversary Mass takes place on Friday, 18th September at 7.00 pm in St. Croan’s Church, Ballymoe. In loving memory of Katie, Kilmore, Ballygar, who died on 26th September 2014 You always had a smile to share Time to give Time to care Still loved, Still missed and very dear.

Always remembered by your sons Hugh, Michael and Pat, daughter-in-law Bernie, grandchildren Brendan, Regina, Louise and Tracey and greatgrandchildren Caoimhe and Ruairi. Anniversary Mass on Thursday 24th September in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar at 7.30pm.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Family Notices

Our deadline for receipt of family notices is 2.30pm on Tuesday.

• Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon Remembering our beloved mother Mary Sadly missed by Martin, Clare, Lorraine and families. Anniversary Mass on Friday 25th September in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan at 8pm.

EGAN Tommy and Mae

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Our deadline for receipt of Family Notices is 2.30pm on Tuesday. We cannot guarantee publication after this time.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

LegalNotices/ LEGAL NOTICES AN CHUIRT DUICHE THE DISTRICT COURT District Court Area of Roscommon District No. 4 LICENSING (IRELAND) ACT, 1833, SECTION 6 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF ON-LICENCE Shane Costello – Applicant TAKE NOTICE THAT Shane Costello of Racecourse Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon, intends to apply to the District Court Sitting at Roscommon, in the County of Roscommon, on the 15th day of September, 2015, at 10.30 a.m. (being the Annual Licensing District Court for the said Court Area) and any adjournment thereof as necessary for the TRANSFER to him of the Licence attached to premises known as “Larry’s”, situate at Goff Street, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon, in the Court Area and District aforesaid. Dated the 11th day of September, 2015. SIGNED:

TO:

AND:

Conleth Harlow & Co., Solicitors for the Applicant, Saint Alban Place, The Square, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. The Superintendent, An Garda Siochana, Abbey Street, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. The Fire Authority, Roscommon County Council, Abbey Street, Roscommon Co. Roscommon. The District Court Clerk, Combined Court Service Office, Government Buildings, Golf Links Road, Roscommon.

SportsPeople Golf

Boyle Golf Club Thursday night’s Men’s Competition was won by Owen Garvin with 20 points. Competitions this week are the Men’s 9-hole on Thursday which is the Thursday competition of the season. Next weekend is the Boyle Motor Works Cup. Format is Mixed Foursomes, arrange partners and opposites. Date for your diary is the final golfer of the year on Sunday 26th September with up to six players in contention for the title won by Gary Carty in 2014. The weekly 9-hole recommences on Monday September 21st and can be played Monday-Saturday. The club outing to Portumna takes place on Saturday October 3rd, details on noticeboard. Cost is €40 per person including meal and prizes.

Castlerea Golf Club Congratulations to Gerry McDonagh and Celia Mulligan who were the winners of Maureen Clafeffy’s President’s Prize. The prize winners were as follows – Men’s section – 1st Gerry McDonagh 164, 2nd Liam O’Connell 164.5, 3rd Mattie Connelly 165, Gross Dara Bruen 176, 1st Eighteen Derek Tully 62,

2nd Eighteen Peter Hester 61, 9 hole Matt Griffith 32.5. Ladies’s section 1st Celia Mulligan, 2nd Valerie Callaghan, 3rd Mamie Creaton, Gross Mary Colleary, 1st Eighteen Mary Gunning, 2nd Eighteen Maura Tully. The Junior Prize winners were: Aoife Freeman, Kevin Hester and Kevin Maxwell. Next Sunday’s gents’ competition is sponsored by Corrib Oil and Tuesday’s Ladies competition on 22nd September is sponsored by Keith Revin’s Tyres. The winner of the Club Draw was Kevin Glynn, Roscommon and 2nd prize went to Joanne Jordan, Carrowbehy. The Club would like to thank everyone who supported the fundraiser and the organisers who worked hard in ensuring its success.

Carrick-onShannon Golf Club LADIES GOLF NEWS: Open Day every Tuesday. We look forward to welcoming you and hope you enjoy your game. ARIGNA FUELS STABLEFORD: Phil McWeeney with 34 points secured her third win of the season. Congratulations to Molly Daly who came 5th in the Regional finals and just missed securing a place in the All-Ireland Final.

Congratulations from all of us here at Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club to Breda Travers and Brid Sullivan from Ballinamore Golf Club on winning The Daily Mail All-Ireland Foursomes. NINE AND DINE: To round off our summer Lady Beginners Golf Programme we’ve a fun 9-hole Scramble followed by a lovely meal in the Bunker Bar on Saturday 26th September.

Roscommon Golf Club The winner of the Sunday competition for the 1914 Captain’s Cup, sponsored by Hannon’s Hotel, was Jack Sharkey with 67 nett. John Paul O’Gara was in second place with 68. Enda Daly won the gross prize with 72 gross and Ronan Kelly was in third place with 69. Paula Keane won the ladies’ Tuesday competition, sponsored by Noel Carr & Co. Accountants, with 39 points. Sinead Benedetti was in second place with 36 points (back 9) and Mary Pender was in third place with 36 points also. Tom Gilleran was the winner of Jim Kelly’s Over 55’s Captain’s prize on Thursday. Seamus Mulhern was in second place and Tommy Fallon was in third place. The competition was followed by the presentation

AN CHUIRT DUICHE THE DISTRICT COURT District Court Area of Castlerea District No. 4 PUBLIC HOUSES (IRELAND) ACT, 1855 SECTION 1 INTOXICATING LIQUOR ACT, 1960 SECTION 29 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF A LICENCE Declan Conboy – Applicant TAKE NOTICE THAT Declan Conboy of Carane, Ballintubber, Castlerea in the County of Roscommon intends to apply to the adjourned Annual Licencing Court to be held at The Courthouse, Castlerea in the County of Roscommon on the 25th day of September 2015 at 10.30am for the TRANSFER to the Applicant of the Publican’s Licence (Ordinary) attaching to the premises known as ‘The Plunkett Inn’ and situate at Castleplunkett, Castlerea in the County of Roscommon in the Court Area and District aforesaid and heretofore licenced in the name of Michael Noone. Dated this the 2nd day of September, 2015. SIGNED:

TO:

Brid Miller Solicitor for the Applicant Athlone Road Roscommon Superintendent, An Garda Siochana, The Garda Station Castlerea Co. Roscommon. The Senior Fire Officer, Roscommon County Council, The Courthouse Roscommon.

President’s Prize winner Gerry McDonagh receives the prize from Maureen Claffey at Castlerea Golf Club.

of prizes and a fine dinner served up by Bryan Keogh and staff. It was a most enjoyable occasion organised with customary efficiency by Jim Finn. The winner of the ladies’ competition was Marguerite Farrell. Frances Penney was in second place and Jackie Maxwell was in third place. The Roscommon ladies’ team lost out to Woodenbridge Golf Club, Co. Wicklow, in the All-Ireland Semi-Final of the Mary McKenna Diamond Trophy Competition which took place in Woodenbridge on Saturday. One of the matches ended on the 21st hole and another on the 20th hole so the ladies could hold their heads high in defeat especially as Woodenbridge went on to defeat Malone Golf Club,

Belfast in the final. President Cathal McConn’s Prize has reached the quarter-final stage with Andrew Prior meeting Peter Geraghty, Sean Fayne meeting Albert O’Connor, Patrick Farnon meeting Paul Hoare and Richard Browne meeting Eddie Keane. The final of the President’s Prize will take place on the 26th of September. The ladies Curran Cup has reached the semi-final stage with Sandra Kelly and Nuala Costello meeting Annie Timothy and Margaret Egan in one and Bernie Browne and Mary O’Gara meeting Carmel Walker and Ethel Keenan in the other. The ladies’ Masters Competition, sponsored by Bernie Browne, will culminate with the qualifiers playing in the final on this Saturday from 1.30 to 2.30.

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Fast, reliable, friendly President’s Prize winner Celia Mulligan receives the prize from Maureen Claffey at Castlerea Golf Club.

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LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB? To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

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Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

SportsPeople This weekend’s action: This evening sees the 3rd day of Listowel racing festival consisting of four flat races and four national hunt races starting at 2.15pm. The action continues at the Co Kerry venue tomorrow Friday at 2.05pm and the now penultimate day of the festival on Saturday with horses for the first coming under orders at 1.50pm. The meeting scheduled for Sunday at Gowran Park is a flat card starting at 2.25pm featuring a Group 3 race for fillies. There is also national hunt card now fixed for Listowel to compensate for the loss of Monday and Tuesday off at 12.15pm. On Tuesday next week Ballinrobe bring their 2015 season to a close. Qualified rider Pauline Condon provided an unusual combination with husband trainer Ken at Laytown beach on Thursday last when Pauline returned to the saddle after a long absence and won the O’Neills Sports (QR) Handicap on Strait Of Zanzibar. In the Irish Champion stakes last Saturday, the weather, as expected, ended the anticipated clash between Aidan O’Brien’s dual Guineas winner Gleneagles and John Gosden’s Epsom Derby hero Golden Horn with the late withdrawl of the Ballydoyle horse. Detorri took up the running on Golden Horn and was challenged by Free Eagle with 2 furlongs to go. The pair engaged in a

Horses for

General News

courses by Tom Red

ding dong tussle until Golden Horn veered right with less than a furlong to go bumping Free Eagle. Detorri quickly balanced the favourite and went on to win by a length from the fast finishing filly Found with Free Eagle ½l further back. The other Group 1 race on the card saw the favourite, Jim Bolger’s Legatissimo, win the Fasnet Rock Matron Stakes from the French challenger Cladocera with Ger Lyons’ Ainippe finishing 3rd. At the Curragh on Sunday there were 3 Group 1 races all won by incumbents of Ballydoyle. The Moyglare Stud Stakes, a 1, 2, 3, was won by the stable’s second string as Seamie Heffernan got Minding up in the shadow of the post to beat Ballydoyle by ¾l. The stables third string was 3rd ½l further back. Air Force One, the National Stakes, and Order of St George, the Irish St Leger, both won easily in the hands of Joseph O’Brien In the final English Classic of the season Simple Verse justified the cost of being supplemented in running, winning by a head from Bondi Beach. But in a steward’s enquiry called immediately into possible interference Andrea Atenzi‘s mount was placed 2nd behind Colm O’Donohue’s giving Aidan O’Brien another Classic winner and a St Leger double. O’Brien’s other runner Fields of Athenry finished 3rd ridden by Frankie Detorri.

Rogue Angel, Kerry National winner.

The Listowel Harvest Festival started on Sunday on soft ground after passing a morning inspection but, after more rain fell overnight, the track failed the inspection on Monday morning and racing was cancelled. Tuesday’s meeting also fell victim to the weather. Yesterday there was a cracking finish to the feature of the week when Ger Fox galvanised the front running Rogue Angel

Simple Verse, red, and Bondi Beach clash in the St Leger, with Fields of Athenry right.

to get back up in the final strides, having been headed before the last, to win the Kerry National. Urano under Paul Townend looked to have fought off the challenge of Danny Mullins and Rule The World until Ger Fox produced the winner with a driving run to get up on the line. The winner and third are owned by Gigginstown and both trained by Mouse Morris and Willie Mullins trains the runner-up Mrs M McMahon. Jockey David Casey called time on his career successfully on Long Dog for Willie Mullins in the Rich Ricci colours winning the novice hurdle easily from Collen Beag and Credo Star. He is staying with the Closutton yard and will be accompa-

nying Max Dynamite to Australia for the Melbourne Cup. Best wishes to David in his retirement.

Competition Time This is the last chance in the final competition of the year for readers to win tickets for this year finale at Lenebane on Monday. To win please let us know where in Ireland does official horse racing take place on the beach? Answers please on a post card to The Roscommon People, Abbey Street Roscommon or by e-mail to redtom17@gmail.com by 2.00pm next Wednesday, the 23rd September. Don’t forget to include your name, address and a contact phone number.

Keen Print Roscommon U-14 Championship Finals Round-up Division 1 St Brigid’s 5-14 Clann na nGael 1-3 St Brigid’s reputation as a very special U-14 team in 2015 was further enhanced at Kilbride last weekend when they completely overwhelmed a battling Clann na nGael side to sweep to the county title in emphatic fashion. Brigid’s opened with the first four points of the contest but Clann hit back with two points, and for most of the first half the sides were evenly matched. But when Eoghan Derwin blasted the ball to the Clann net before half-time Brigid’s assumed control. On the resumption a goal from a penalty from Shane Cunnane saw Brigid’s kick on. Three further goals from Eoghan Derwin and Adam Lennon (2) saw Brigid’s pull away into the distance. Clann battled bravely but they had only Fionnan Hen-

ry’s late goal to show for their valiant efforts. Scorers – St Brigid’s: E Derwin (2-7), A Lennon (2-1), S Cunnane (1-0), D Murray (0-2), R Fallon (0-2), B O’Carroll (0-1), C Canny (0-1); Clann na nGael: F Henry (1-0), C Fallon-McGowan (0-2), F Lennon (0-1).

Division 2 Western Gaels 4-8 Roscommon Gaels 3-7 Western Gaels had to withstand a late rally from Roscommon Gaels before claiming this Division Two title at Kilglass. Western Gaels scored two goals from Christopher Kennedy and Jack Freeman in that first half and at the break they led by 2-5 to 0-4. The Gaels battled back well in the second half and a goal from a free from Richard King started the revival. It was a great contest now.

Western Gaels hit back with a goal from Cian Fitzpatrick only for the town side to reply with another goal, this time from another free, taken by Daire McDonald. The margin was only three now but with 13 minutes to go Western Gaels struck for a vital fourth goal from Shane McGrath. It was the score that saw them safe although Roscommon Gaels did have the final say when Daire McDonald scored a penalty late on. Scorers – Western Gaels: C Kennedy (1-3), S McGrath (1-1), C Fitzpatrick (1-1), J Freeman (1-1), R Garvin (0-1), S O’Neill (0-1); Roscommon Gaels: D McDonald (2-2), R King (1-4), J Mooney (0-1).

Division Three St Micheal’s 3-8 St Faithleach’s 2-7 This was a thrilling encounter at Kilglass. St Michael’s were the better side early on

and goals from Colin Burke and Andrew Tiernan saw the Cootehall side build up a 2-4 to 0-2 lead by the 20th minute. St Faithleach’s battled back well and a goal from Liam Ormsby saw them close the gap and at half-time St Michael’s led by 2-6 to 1-3. Faithleach’s were by far the better side on the restart and another goal from Liam Ormsby (a penalty), and a couple of points saw the margin down to one by the 43rd minute. It was a great contest, and with five minutes to go St Michael’s were still hanging on to a one-point lead. But Michael’s scored a late goal through Hanley Vivek to edge out the four-point winners. Scorers – St Michael’s: A Tiernan (1-1), F Henry (03), C Burke (1-0), H Vivek (1-0), N Sheerin (0-2), A Chilton (0-1), M Heslin (01); St Faithleach’s: L Ormsby (2-3), J Browne (0-2), N McGovern (0-1), J Murray (0-1).

Pictured in the Gaelic Grounds in Limerick supporting Roscommon in the recent All-Ireland Minor B Hurling Final were Elisha and Alan Glynn. Picture: Andrew Fox

Hodson Bay Hotel IFC Quarter-ﬁnals St Brigid’s 3-8 Kilglass Gaels 0-9 Goals from Joey Cunniffe (2) and Jack McDonnell were the difference as St Brigid’s prevailed at Strokestown. Gavin Tully’s free-taking kept Kilglass ticking along but Brigid’s were just too strong for them on the day. Scorers – St Brigid’s: J

Cunniffe (2-2), J McDonnell (1-1), I Monaghan (02), C McDonnell (0-2), K Kilkenny (0-1); Kilglass Gaels: G Tully (0-5), T Cox (0-1), D Connellan (0-1), T Tully (0-1), P Bolger (0-1).

Creggs 1-14 St Dominic’s 0-11 A goal from Enda Conneran shortly after half-time was the crucial score as Creggs won this quarter-final at

Oran. Tomas Gilleran was deadly accurate from frees for Dominic’s but Creggs were always in control after the goal and they held out to win comfortably. Scorers – Creggs: E Conneran (1-4), R Kelly (0-4), S Dowd (0-4), K Gavin (0-1), S Quinn (0-1); St Dominic’s: T Gilleran (0-8), M Donnelly (0-1), R Morris (0-1), A Kelly (0-1).

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

Rugby

Creggs RFC news Registration: Registration nights for Youth and Mini Rugby will take place in Creggs Clubhouse on Friday 18th from 7 pm to 8.30 pm and on Saturday 19th of September (10.30 am-12 pm) and at the same time the following Friday and Saturday, 25th and 26th of September. This year all Mini/Youth and Senior players will receive a Rugbytech Creggs Half Zip Top as part of their membership free of charge (worth €49). Youth Rugby: Creggs Youth Rugby training has resumed and all new players are welcome. Creggs U-13s, U-14s and U-15s train in Creggs on Friday nights at 7 pm. Creggs U-16s and U-17s train on Wednesday night at 7 pm. Creggs U-18s will return training next week and please keep an eye on Creggs facebook page and our website, www.creggsrugby.ie, for more details. Mini Rugby: Mini Rugby will return Saturday 19th of September at 11 am in Creggs. All new players, boys and girls, are welcome. Mini rugby is for U-7s (born 2009) to U-12s (born 2004). Training will continue every Saturday at 11 am and a full itinerary of Blitzes will be provided at time of registration.

Tennis coaching in Ballyleague Lough Ree Bay Tennis club have two tennis coaches at their disposal this autumn at the tennis courts in Ballyleague marina, Lanesborough and surrounding areas. Tennis coaching returns this week. After the success of his week-long summer coaching camp, Tim Clarke, from Ballaghaderreen, will return to coach the children this autumn. For information on coaching this Friday, call 0831155374.

GAA results Hodson Bay Hotel Group SFC Quarter-Finals Clann na nGael 2-12 Castlerea St Kevin’s 0-13 Pádraig Pearses 1-12 Boyle 1-9 Hodson Bay Hotel Group IFC Semi-Finals Fuerty 1-9 Oran 1-8 Michael Glavey’s 0-13 Tulsk Lord Edward’s 1-9 Hodson Bay Hotel Group Junior A FC Quarter-Finals Creggs 1-14 St Dominic’s B 0-11 St Brigid’s B 3-7 Kilglass Gaels 0-10 Hodson Bay Hotel Group Junior B FC Kilmore B W/O v St Faithleach’s B

Underage GAA ﬁxtures Friday September 18th Donnellan & Co U-16 Division 1 Football Championship Final At Ballyforan: Clann na nGael v St Brigid’s. 7 pm Donnellan & Co U-16 Division 3 Football Championship Final At Kilbride: St Aidan’s v Elphin. 7.15 pm Biesty Construction U-12 B Hurling Championship Final At Athleague: Oran v St Mary’s-Kiltoghert. 6 pm Biesty Construction U-12 Hurling Championship Final At Athleague: Pádraig Pearses v Roscommon Gaels. 7 pm Saturday September 19th Donnellan & Co U-16 Division 2 Football Championship Final At Orchard Park: Castlerea St Kevin’s v Kilmore/Shannon Gaels. 3.30 pm Keenan Cup Final At Abbey Park: Strokestown v Boyle or St. Michael’s. 12 pm Sunday September 20th Donnellan & Co U-16 Division 4 Football Championship Final At Tarmonbarry: Kilglass Gaels/St Barry’s v Boyle. 7.15 pm

GAA ﬁxtures Saturday September 19th Kepak Senior Hurling Championship Semi-Finals At Athleague: Athleague v Four Roads. 4 pm At Athleague: Padraig Pearses v Oran. 5.30 pm Hodson Bay Hotel Group Junior A Championship Semi Final At Kilbride: Creggs v Shannon Gaels. 6.30 pm King & Moffatt Group Adult Football League Division One Relegation Play-off At Strokestown: Strokestown v Tulsk Lord Edward’s. 5 pm

The Roscommon U-14 team that took part in the National Blitz in Dublin at the weekend.

Camogie

Great support on big day for Roscommon camogie Liberty Insurance Junior Championship AllIreland Final: Hard luck to the Junior team and management who were defeated in the All-Ireland Final on Sunday in Croke Park by Laois on a scoreline of 2-12 to 1-6. Despite a brilliant effort from the Roscommon team, Laois were not to be denied an All-Ireland title on their third attempt. Thank you to the huge crowd who travelled on Sunday and supported the team on the big occasion. Thank you to all who gave sponsorship to-

wards the team in their preparation for the All-Ireland. There is no doubt this team will be back again in 2016. Gannon Landscaping U-12 Finals: The U-12 league drew to a close last week with the A & B finals being held in Tremane. Pearses emerged victorious in the A final over St Dominic’s and Athleague defeated Four Roads in the B Final. The C and D Finals were won by Roscommon Gaels Eagles and Roscommon Gaels Hawks, who defeated Oran and Tulsk respectively.

Senior Club Championship: The Senior Championship commences this weekend with the following fixtures: Four Roads v Oran in Four Roads at 12.30; Athleague v St Dominic’s in Athleague at 6 pm. County U-14 team: Well done to the county U14 team and management that took part in the National Blitz day in Dublin at the weekend. The team also paraded on Croke Park at halftime in the Intermediate Final. Well done to all concerned.

Boyle Badminton Club open night

Community Games

AFK win gold

Badminton will resume in Boyle Sports Complex on Monday, September 21, at 9.30 pm. New members are very welcome to come in and give the game a try. Coaching will be provided if necessary. There will be tea/coffee available on the night, so feel free to come in and enjoy a cuppa. For further Information, contact Bernie at 086-3754797 or Tom at 086-6027120.

AFK (Athleague, Fuerty, Kilbegnet) were very well represented at the Community Games National Finals in Athlone recently, with 12 young people from the area competing. Well done to Danny Arnold (individual singing), Adam Arnold (100 metres), Ellie Kavanagh, Danny Arnold, Brian Neilan, Erin Cleary and Laura Lane (U-16 group singing) and Rory Gacquin, (bronze medal in model-making). The final competition of the weekend was the U-14 Group Singing and AFK took the gold medal, fighting off very high competition from 18 other counties. Congratulations to Hazel Murray, Ruairi Tiernan, Daniel Fitzmaurice, Megan Molloy and Emily Murray. Their two songs, delivered in Accapela style, received a very high mark from the panel of judges.

Darts

Good weekend for Roscommon Darts Last Saturday the inaugural All-Ireland B competition was held in The West County Hotel, Ennis with a determined Roscommon side making the most of the event and coming within touching distance of beating the eventual winners and taking a finals place. The initial stages of the competition were in a Round Robin format, and Roscommon found them-

selves in a difficult group alongside Limerick, Kilkenny and Laois. Roscommon lost 6-2 to Limerick, beat Kilkenny 6-2 and beat Laois 5-3. Defeating Galway 5-1 in the quarter-finals, they lost a classic semi-final against Mayo, after being 4-0 ahead. Special thanks to Martin Fleming for all the work he has put in with the group of

players, starting back at the West Coast Challenge in February and more recently in the weeks coming up to the event. Concannon on the double: In the INDO National Singles in the West County Hotel, Ennis a number of Roscommon players were in action on both Saturday and Sunday. David Concannon’s eventual triumph on the double was further

evidence of his current stature in the sport. AGM: The Roscommon Darts AGM will take place this Friday 18th September at 8.30 pm in Hannon’s Hotel. All teams must have at least one representative present to vote on any proposed changes to format, etc. Well done Ken: Well done to Ken Turkington who won last weekend’s Round

Robin in the Hollywood with a win over JP Feeney in the final. Summer Round Robins will continue in The Hollywood Bar, Roscommon town this Friday. For more details or to enter your name contact David on (086) 0823180 or join the Facebook page ‘Hollywood Bar Darts Events’ for more information. All welcome!

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

SportsPeople

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Dublin can edge a quality All-Ireland Final This Sunday’s All-Ireland senior football final between Dublin and Kerry promises to be a cracking match and I am struggling to settle on one side or the other. In Dublin’s favour they have had two tough games against Mayo and they proved that they have the stomach for the battle. They have a very strong team overall and they have some super subs, three of whom came off the bench in the semi-final

replay to win the game for them. Diarmuid Connolly was very poor in that game and that was probably down to the hullabaloo over his suspension. He is a class act and is sure to play well in the final. On the down side for Dublin is the fact that they are poor enough at midfield and they will have to come up with a way of limiting Anthony Maher and David Moran. Remem-

ber too that Brian Sheehan is in reserve for Kerry if they need him. Then when you look at Kerry they are very strong in midfield and attack. In fact they have at least nine forwards who would get on any other intercounty team. Their tradition in finals is incredible too and they know how to win. In addition they have a brilliant young manager in Eamon Fitzmaurice who will have a game plan hatched

to cope with Dublin. On the minus side the Kerry defence looks porous and if Dublin can get enough supply into Bernard Brogan, Paul Flynn and Diarmuid Connolly, they can get the match-winning scores. Once again the kickouts of Stephen Cluxton will be crucial. It is a fascinating game in prospect. I am going to give a very hesitant vote to Dublin to win it by a point or two. In the minor final we have a

repeat of the Munster decider when Tipperary take on Kerry. Jack O’Connor is still over the Kerry team and I will be shocked if they don’t win this with a bit to spare. Staying on matters GAA, Limerick’s U-21 hurlers put on some show last Saturday night in the final in Thurles. They hammered a very good Wexford team. I heard several hurling experts say on Sunday that it was one of the finest ex-

Pride in Walker win

Roscommon camogie on the rise

One of the sporting achievements of the year happened at Royal Lytham Golf Club near Blackpool over the weekend as GB and Ireland won the Walker Cup by 16 and a half to 9 and a half points. The reason it is such a big deal is that there were five Irish lads on the team of ten, which is our biggest representation ever. It is a measure of the strength of Irish golf now that there are so many young players who are top class performers and it will be interesting to see who will make it as a top professional. The event was covered by the BBC and it was fantastic to see so many Irish flags and to hear so many Irish accents as the home side swept to victory.

Last Sunday was a great day for the game of camogie in Roscommon as the junior team played in Croke Park in an All-Ireland final for the first time. While they were beaten by nine points they acquitted themselves very well and I have no doubt that if the management team headed up by Noel Finn stays in place and the younger players, some of whom are only 17 and 18, train on, then All-Ireland glory is not too far away. Laois had been beaten in two AllIreland finals in a row at this grade and they were ready to step up to the mark this year. It is interesting to note that Laois won the Junior B All-Ireland (Nancy Murray Cup) in 2007, two years before Roscommon won the same competition, in 2009. I have been very impressed by the way that the team has improved under the new management and I have no doubt that Roscommon will be the team to beat in the premier junior championship in 2016.

Will he stay or will he go?

Rugby World Cup kick-off The 2015 Rugby World Cup starts this coming weekend and while there are some brilliant games coming up, I suspect that there will be a lot of very one-sided games as well. Let’s hope that one of those one-sided games will be Ireland v Canada on Saturday. The feeling is that Joe Schmidt is pacing the Irish preparations and that the team have not shown their hand yet. I certainly hope that is the case. Our key games will be against Italy and France. If we can top the group then we can start getting excited but there is a long way to go. New Zealand have got to be the choice (again!) to win it out.

hibitions of hurling that they had seen at that level. The trick now is to turn it into senior success. We remember that Limerick won three U-21 titles in a row about 15 years ago and everyone was predicting that they would take over at senior level but it never happened. Kilkenny have not won an U-21 title since 2007 and they have won several senior All-Irelands since.

Plaudits to Fuerty and Michael Glavey’s It was a very interesting weekend in club football locally. In the intermediate championship semi-finals both favourites were beaten and now we have an intriguing final between the last two junior champions, Fuerty and Michael Glavey’s. It has been an incredible year for Michael Glavey’s and they have powered their way to the final. However Fuerty have been just as impressive and it will be a close-fought decider. It must be a particular heartbreak for Tulsk who have been beaten in the last two finals. They looked

odds-on to finally break their duck this year but they will have to do it all over again in 2016. The two senior quarter-finals were contrasting games. Clann na nGael played well in the first game and in fact there were some passages of very good football in that match from both sides, and the two goals that Castlerea got in the first half proved crucial. They will have to improve if they are to beat St Brigid’s. The second game between Boyle and Padraig Pearses was very poor stuff, but it came alive in injury-time. Boyle

will be kicking themselves this week and will wonder just how they managed to lose this game. At half-time they could have been at least four more points to the good because they kicked some very bad wides. Even after they had a man sent off they led by two points deep into injury-time but they couldn’t close it out. You have to give credit to Pearses for their persistence, but they got out of jail. Roscommon Gaels will be the favourites to win the semi-final but Pearses’ defensive set-up will pose them problems.

The Premiership is limping along but there has been very little good football to see so far. Manchester City are making a procession of the league and if they keep on winning the title race will be over before Christmas. I watched Manchester United v Liverpool at the weekend and the first half was the worst 45 minutes of top level soccer that I have ever seen. There was not one shot on target from two teams that cost about 400 million pounds between them. The second half was a bit better and there were a couple of great goals but I thought that Liverpool were dire altogether. There was huge praise for Martial and the youngster scored a fine goal, but let’s not get carried away. At the end of the season let’s look back and see how he did. A measure of how good or bad Manchester United are will come in the Champions League, which starts this week. I’m still not convinced. There are not too many tears for Jose Mourinho as Chelsea continue to struggle. Mourinho does not like to lose. I wonder how long he will stay at Stamford Bridge if his team does not improve?

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

SportsPeople SICK AS A PARROT/OVER THE MOON

ROSCOMMON & DISTRICT LEAGUE NEWS

It’s seven-up for Castlerea A 1-0 victory over Ballaghaderreen means Castlerea Celtic continued their solid start to the Premier Division season. Nathan Blighe’s winner – a de-

flected free-kick – means Castlerea now have seven leagues points from their opening three games. Champs Ballinasloe will take some stopping again this season

despite their opening-day loss. They beat Cloonfad 5-1 away. Ballymoe FC defeated MD Town 3-2, a great response to their 5-1 loss to Skyvalley last week.

Ross Timothy with two and Keith Keenan with one were the goal-scorers. Tommie Wrynne scored two penalties for the losers.

Super Shiven!

This week’s Awards…

Division One: Unbeaten Shiven Rovers beat Ahascragh United 5-0 with Shane Harkin claiming his first-ever hat-trick. Ahascragh actually had lots of the play but they didn’t take their chances, whereas Shiven did! Brazukas remain undefeated and were 3-0 winners over Loughglynn United. Rahara Rovers had their first win of the season when they beat Ballaghaderreen 6-3 at Rahara. Three late goals from Brendan O’Meara, Noel Moran and Patrick Fallon sealed a win for Rahara. Luke Donnelly scored two firsthalf penalties for Rahara against a game Ballaghaderreen.

WIN OF WEEKEND It has to be Roscommon United, who had their first ever win (it’s their first season), a 4-0 triumph over Cloonfad in Division Two – which was in response to an opening day 8-0 defeat!

Roscommon United gain historic ﬁrst win Division Two: Last week we erroneously called Roscommon United Roscommon Town, apologies. The aforementioned Roscommon United, who are in their first season in the league (Division Two), took an 8-0 hammering last week but what a comeback by them last weekend with the new boys defeating Cloonfad United 4-0. Aaron Langan scored two and Marco Morelli and Bernard Keogh added one each on a historic day for the newcomers. Moore United are shaping up well as they recorded their second win of the season, beating KC Celtic 2-0 at home. In their first outing of the new campaign Moylough drew 3-3 with CP Ajax at Tarmon. MD Town beat a very inexperienced Roscommon Youths side 10-2. Seamus Culkeen scored three while Kevin Varley, Thomas Fallon and Aaron O’Connell got two each. Better days ahead for the losers for whom Craig Lyons netted two. Thomas Murphy scored the winner for Lough Harps against St. John’s, who battled bravely without managing to secure a draw.

Moore United and Dysart drew 1-1 with on-form James Coyne again the Dysart hero, scoring their equaliser with a last-minute goal.

GAME OF WEEKEND Rahara beat Ballaghaderreen 6-3 in Division One – and we love goals!

PLAYERS WHO CAUGHT THE EYE

Eamon Gleeson moves out of defence with the ball. Picture: Andrew Fox

James Coyle is in a rich vein of form for Dysart but it’s hats off this week to Shane Harkin of Shiven Rovers who, despite all his goals over the years, claimed what was a careerfirst hat-trick last weekend.

Soccer ﬁxtures Friday, September 18th Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (8 pm) Glen Celtic v Shiven Rovers. E. Collins Saturday, September 19th The Herald Premier Division (7.45 pm) Castlerea Celtic v MD Town. E. Deering, D. Dully, A. Deering Killeen Sports Ground Division 2 (7.45 pm) Cloonfad Utd B v St. John’s Athletic B. W. Stokes Sunday, September 20th The Herald Premier Division (12 pm) Skyvalley Rovers v Ballaghaderreen FC. R.Stokes, A. Goncalves, W. Stokes Moore Utd v Ballymoe FC. S. O’Brien, T. Cormican, M. Nolan Dysart FC v Cloonfad Utd. M. Hachett, J. McCrossan, A. Deering Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (12 pm) Ahascaragh Utd v Brazukas. E. Deering Ballaghaderreen FC B v Kilkerrin Utd. J. McLoughlin Killeen Sports Ground Division 2 (12 pm) Roscommon Utd v Skyvalley Rovers B. M. Devlin Moylough 79 v MD Town B. N. Larkin CP Ajax v Lough Harps. G. Kelly Ros Youths v KC Celtic. G. Carmody

The Roscommon Untied team that picked up their first points of the season with a 4-0 victory over Cloonfad United. Picture: Andrew Fox

Registration Night for new Astro-Turf League After the success of the first Roscommon Community Sports Park 5-a-side astro-turf competition last autumn, the organisers are now seeking entries for the new annual winter league, which starts in the first week in October. Strictly seven on a team (five and two subs). Entry fee is €100 per team, and €35 per night after that. Registration on Monday, September 28th from 7-8 pm at Lisnamult Community Centre. Call John on 086-8538519 for more information or to make a booking.

The Cloonfad team that were defeated by Roscommon United on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

SportsPeople

Tony Mac Talks GAA READ ROSCOMMON GREAT TONY MCMANUS EXCLUSIVELY IN THE ROSCOMMON PEOPLE!

Kerry can take Sam – but only after a cracking contest with Dubs This coming Sunday will see the culmination of what has been a disappointing championship campaign when Dublin play Kerry in the All-Ireland senior final. The best two teams are left in the competition and we can expect a cracking contest, both on the pitch and on the sidelines. What worries me is that these two teams could monopolise finals for the next few years and that cannot be good for the game overall. That is not Kerry or Dublin’s fault but Croke Park must take a look at the championship and ways to make it more equitable for the smaller and poorer counties. But in truth I don’t think that things will change any time soon if we are relying on Croke Park. For most counties around the country there is a certain apathy about this game. However at least we can expect a game

of football where defences will not be top of the agenda. Both managers will be concerned at not conceding goals and both teams are also very strong in attack so we should see a lot of attacking play. Kerry are very strong from number eight upwards but their defence has to be a concern for them. On the other hand Dublin are not great at midfield and Kerry will surely not let Stephen Cluxton get away with short kick-outs. They will force him to kick it long and hope that David Moran and Anthony Maher will rule the aerial exchanges at midfield. Both benches are very strong and that will also have a huge bearing on the outcome. While the two tough games against Mayo will bring Dublin on, the Kerry midfield and attack looks lethal and I give a very hesitant vote to Kerry.

Pride of place goes to Glavey’s and Fuerty Last weekend we saw some very interesting club action here in the county. Pride of place must go to Fuerty and Michael Glavey’s on reaching the intermediate final against the odds. It is great to see teams progressing and these two teams are doing really well having just come out of the junior ranks. It was important that Fuerty built on their All-Ireland final appearance and progress in the intermediate championship was crucial. Well done to Malachy Gately and all concerned but they will know that getting to a final is not much good if you don’t win it. Michael Glavey’s have been playing great football all summer and beating Tulsk was a

huge achievement. They will certainly fancy their chances in the final. Clann and Padraig Pearses advanced to the semi-finals of the senior championship with contrasting victories last Sunday. The Clann v Castlerea contest was a good open game of football where Clann were solid rather than spectacular in their victory. Castlerea played some good football at times but their lack of strength in depth caught them in the finish. Cathal Shine, Graham Pettit and Donie Shine were to the fore for Clann while Ger Heneghan was his usual classy self for Castlerea. The weather didn’t help in the second game where Boyle were decidedly unlucky not to have got at least a draw. This was a very stop-start affair with Pearses deploying Niall Carty to nullify the attacking threat of Boyle.

Castlerea v Clann: Clann manager Paul Curran pictured on the sideline during Sunday’s game. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pearses will not be too concerned about the quality of the game and they will relish the challenge of playing Roscommon Gaels in the semi-final. Emmet Kelly was excellent for Pearses while Seanie Fahy

and Conor Daly also made major contributions. For Boyle Cillian Cox was excellent throughout and Seanie Purcell, Rock Hanmore, and Tadhg McKenna (in the second half) also played well.

Ladies Football

Busy weekend for ladies football

Management team steps down

Kilglass Gaels GAA Grounds is the venue for The Castlerea Vehicle Recycling Intermediate Championship Final on Saturday evening next. This eagerly-awaited game between 2013 Junior County and Connacht champions Shannon Gaels and 2014 Junior County and Connacht champions St. Ciaran’s throws in at 5 pm. Both sides had slender victories in the semi-finals; Shannon Gaels had two points to spare over Kilglass Gaels while St. Ciaran’s had a single-point victory over Western Gaels. When the sides met in the first round back in early July, Shannon Gaels were 6-7 to 3-10 victors. Both panels have a wealth of experience and talent within their ranks. Paula and Elaine Daly, Honor Ennis, Laura Fleming and Rachel Fitzmaurice will no doubt all line out for St. Ciaran’s, while Shannon Gaels can call on key players like Niamh O’Beirne, Sorcha Bruen, Tess Murtagh, Elaine McDermott,

After three years of progress, Kieran Kilkenny and his management team of Patsy Connor, Val Beirne and Brendan Cregg have confirmed they are vacating the post of Roscommon Ladies Senior Football Management. Kieran Kilkenny stated: “Following an enjoyable and sometimes challenging three years I feel it is time to let someone else take up the reigns. “I would like to thank Patsy, Val and Brendan for all their help and support during my tenure. To Mary and Kathleen who kept the show on the road, I couldn’t have done it without you, thank you both very much. Finally I would like to thank the county board who were very supportive in every way. “I have been honoured to have worked with such a talented and committed group of players. The future is bright for Roscommon ladies football and I wish them every success in the future. I have no doubt that success at Connacht and All-Ireland level is not far off.’’ The Management Committee of Roscommon LGFA wish to express their gratitude to Kieran, Patsy, Val and Brendan for their efforts and service to Roscommon LGFA. Under their management the Roscommon Ladies Senior Football team have progressed to win the Division Four of the National League and have consolidated their position in Division Three, winning five out of seven games and also reaching the semi-final of the All-Ireland Intermediate Championship in 2014. Kieran Kilkenny and his management team leave behind a Roscommon Ladies Senior Football panel with an improved structure and an ambition to progress and be successful.

Caoimhe O’Dowd and Katie Daly, to name just a few. This match-up has all the prospects of being a very intriguing encounter and could go down to the wire. One would expect a very slender Shannon Gaels win due to their strong bench, but don’t rule out a replay, even after extra-time. Our Truly Irish sponsored Senior and Percy French Hotel sponsored Junior semi-finals also take place on Saturday next. Table-toppers and title favourites Strokestown play neighbours Kilbride in Kilbride at 2 pm (to be confirmed). Kilbride will be buoyed by their 4-10 to 1-15 win over Eire Óg in the fourth place play-off last week and will put it up to Strokestown. However there looks to be only one winner here with ‘The Town’ expected to advance to the final with a bit to spare. The second semi-final see neighbours St. Brigid’s and Clann na nGael in an allsouth clash in Knockcroghery at 2 pm. Going on earlier league

and championship results one would expect an easy victory for Clann na nGael who recorded a 5-13 to 3-6 win in the league and a 5-14 to 3-8 win in the championship. Given that this is a knockout game the Kiltoom ladies may not be as accommodating this time around and will turn to their vast experience of playing in big championship games. Clann na nGael however are a younger team and a very hungry one and will see this as a great opportunity to get one over their arch-rivals in a do-or-die championship game and to make amends for the county final loss last year. Clann na nGael to win, but only just. In The Percy French Hotel sponsored Junior Championship St. Barry’s play Ballinameen as a curtainraiser to the intermediate final in Kilglass at 3 pm. These are two very evenlymatched teams. The sides met in the league in early April when Ballinameen were two-point victors. Both teams had great runs

Action from Clann v Brigids’s in last season’s senior county final, won by St. Brigid’s. Saoirse McManus evades the challenge of Jenny Conlon. Picture: Andrew Fox

in their group, each winning three and losing one. One would expect a very close game here. The experience of playing in the junior final last year might just get Ballinameen over the line. In the second semi-final Padraig Pearses play St. Croan’s in Knockcroghery at 12 noon. Those two teams met in the league in mid-March in a goal-feast that ended in a draw. The full-time score on that oc-

casion was Padraig Pearses 12-11 St. Croans 10-17. Both sides have conceded a lot of goals during both league and championship to date but have also got huge returns from their forwards in the goal-scoring department. This should be a very highscoring encounter, with whichever side can best curb the number of goal chances their opponents get making it to the final.

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

Liberty Insurance All-Ireland Camogie Junior Final Laois 2-12 Roscommon 1-6

WE’ll BE BACK! Finn and Spillane pledge to renew All-Ireland quest next season after ﬁnal defeat < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon camogie team will learn from Sunday’s defeat in the All-Ireland Final and bounce back next season determined to claim top honours. That’s the view from the Roscommon camp this week as the management and players reflect on Sunday’s defeat to an accomplished Laois side. Two goals in two minutes midway through the first half were the key scores as Laois overpowered a very game Roscommon side to land the All-Ireland Premier junior title in Croke Park. Manager Noel Finn says “silly mistakes” cost Roscommon on this occasion but he believes his players will have learnt a lot from the experience and that they willl be back to try to complete the job next season. “Those two first-half goals killed us really. We made a few silly mistakes that cost us. But look, they will learn. It is their first time playing in Croke Park and I am sure that a lot of our players are disappointed with their performance. Things just didn’t happen for them today but one thing I am sure of, they will be back. “It is a learning process for a lot of the girls who are young. We have a few very experienced players too and I would hope that they will get another crack of the whip next year and get that elusive All-Ireland medal.” The nine-point margin might suggest a very one-sided final but Roscommon battled all the way to the finish and save for a few costly defensive errors and a lack of strength in depth up front, the Rossies turned in an excellent display. With the current management set-up only in place since June this Roscommon team has made huge strides and if they can keep this squad of players and management together they will be a much stronger side in 2016. Noel Finn was proud of the Roscommon team on Sunday. “We came back great after halftime but I thought we gave away some silly scores today. We made mistakes today that we didn’t make against Dublin in the semifinal but full credit to the girls.”

Having tasted the big-match atmosphere in Croke Park, Roscommon will be hungry for more and success may not be that far away, on the evidence of this display. But it has to be admitted that Laois were the stronger team on the day and they deserved to win this final. Having lost the past two finals at this level they were determined not to leave Croke Park without the cup this time around and they have some marvellous players who came up trumps for them on Sunday. Louise Mahony fired over nine points from frees and from play and was tremendous throughout, while Sarah Anne Fitzgerald had a great game at midfield. Laura Marie Maher, Elaine Mahony and Amy Loughman were also very prominent for the winners. Susan Spillane was Roscommon’s star turn. She was phenomenal all through and was close to being the player of the game. It was a stunning display from the St Dominic’s girl. Siobhan Coyle was very strong at full-back while Rachel Fitzmaurice caught the eye at midfield. Up front Roscommon struggled. Annette McGeeney was by far Roscommon’s best forward and while Kelley Hopkins contributed handsomely from placed balls, she missed a few as well and overall Roscommon needed more punch in attack. But these are problems that can be ironed out and I am certain that when Noel Finn, Noel Murphy and Ciara Moran get longer to work with this squad the rapid rate of progress that we have since June will accelerate even further. Coyle, the Roscommon captain, acknowledged that Laois were just superior on the day. “We are very disappointed but look, we knew that Laois were good. We knew that they would try to isolate their full-forward line and we always knew that they would get a goal or two and it was up to us to try and keep with them. They were just too good for us today.” Now attention will turn to next season and with Laois

moving out of this particular grade, Roscommon will firmly set their sights on winning next year’s AllIreland Junior title. Noel Finn seemed determined that Roscommon will grow from their experience – and be all the better for it. “I am proud about the way

Roscommon played here today but look, that’s sport. There is one winner and that’s Laois today but hopefully we will be back.” He was backed up by Siobhan Coyle. “It was fantastic to get this experience of Croke Park today.

The players, the supporters, the clubs and everyone who was here will remember it. Roscommon camogie is now on the map. “Laois have been the standout team in this division and we knew they were our biggest opposition – but they are gone out of this grade now. We are hungry for more and we want to get back here again. “We have a lot of good young players coming on to the Roscommon scene and we can come back a lot stronger.”

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

Liberty Insurance All-Ireland Camogie Junior Final Laois 2-12 Roscommon 1-6

Picturd are the Roscommon Camogie panel that played Laois in the Liberty Insurance Premier Junior Camogie Championship Final in Croke Park, Dublin last Sunday.

Big Match Stats

Laois Roscommon 6 4 16 14 0 0 2-5 1-2 16,610

Early goals led to Roscommon’s downfall Wides Frees Yellow Cards Scores From Play Attendance

KEY MOMENTS Seamus Duke

It was a cold, wet and breezy day in Croke Park and in the opening quarter there was nothing between the teams. By the 14th minute the sides were level at 0-3 each with Louise Mahony scoring two frees and Niamh Dollard being the other Laois scorer while for Roscommon, Kelly Hopkins scored two points from frees (one a ’45) and Claire Curley a nice point from play. Then in the 14th minute Amy Loughman was fouled on her way towards the Roscommon goal. Referee Grainne Coulter adjudged it to be a penalty. Sarah Anne Fitzgerald took it, Caroline Connaughton made a block on the line but Fitzgerald was quickest to react and she swept the sliotar home. Even worse was to come for Roscommon 90 seconds later. Laura Marie Maher showed great skill to bring the ball under control before crashing it to the Roscommon net for another Laois goal – and now there was daylight between the sides. Annette McGeeney responded with a superb point from 40 metres but Laois ended the half with three

Action from the Roscommon v Laois Liberty Insurance Premier Junior Camogie Championship Final in Croke Park, Dublin last Sunday.

unanswered points from Louise Mahony (2, 1 free) and Elaine Mahony. Half-time score: Laois 2-6 Roscommon 0-4. Roscommon needed to come out all guns blazing at the start of the second half, and in fairness they did. In the 32nd minute Kelley Hopkins’ long ball caused chaos in the Laois defence and Niamh Farrell pounced to fire home a goal. Two minutes later Kelley Hopkins fired over a 40-metre free and now the

Action from the Roscommon v Laois Liberty Insurance Premier Junior Camogie Championship Final in Croke Park, Dublin last Sunday.

gap was down to four, 2-6 to 1-5. But incredibly Roscommon were only to score one more point in the final 26 minutes as Laois took over. Louise Mahony was now in rampant form and she scored five unanswered points (three frees) as Laois pulled away again. Roscommon, with Susan Spillane brilliant in the half-back line, were doing well but they just couldn’t get the scores they needed to stay in the game. Kelley Hopkins pointed a 20-metre free in the 54th minute to reduce the margin but it was fitting that the final score of the game came from the player of the match, Louise Mahony, in the 56th minute. Roscommon’s first ever final at this grade had ended in disappointment but hopefully it will not be long before they are back. Laois: Laura Dunne; Mairead Burke, Rosemary Birmingham, Aisling Burke; Elaine Mahony (0-1), Eimear Delaney, Sarah Creagh; Olga Parkinson, Sarah Anne Fitzgerald (1-0); Niamh Dollard (01), Louise Mahony (0-9, 7 frees),

Aisling O’Dea; Amy Loughman, Laura Marie Maher (1-0), Aoife Burke (0-1). Subs: Dawn Mortimer

for O’Dea (20), Sharon Moylan for Aoife Burke (58), Claire Walsh for Creagh (59), Sile Burke for Loughman (59). Roscommon: Caroline Connaughton; Carmel Killeen, Siobhan Coyle, Aisling Byrne; Susan Spillane, Elaine Daly, Joanne Beattie; Niamh Coyle, Rachel Fitzmaurice; Kelley Hopkins (0-4, 3 frees, 1 ’45), Annette McGeeney (0-1), Rebecca Brennan; Claire Curley (01), Niamh Farrell (1-0), Fiona Connell-Jones. Subs: Margaret Fannon for Connell-Jones (21), Caroline Dowling for Brennan (41), Maeve Brennan for Curley (55), Noleen McCormack for Farrell (59), Catriona Morris for Killeen (59). Referee: Grainne Coulter (Down). Player of the Match: Louise Mahony (Laois)

Action from the Roscommon v Laois Liberty Insurance Premier Junior Camogie Championship Final in Croke Park, Dublin last Sunday. All photographs: ©INPHO

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

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Fuerty reign in the rain! game of the weekend Seamus Duke

Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon IFC Semi-Final Fuerty 1-9 Oran 1-8 < SEAMUS DUKE

Fuerty pulled off a bit of a shock when they overcame neighbours Oran in this intermediate semi-final at Kilbride which was played last Friday evening in some of the worst weather conditions that this writer has seen in many years. The game started in torrential rain but it got worse as the proceedings went on and by the end it was hard to see from one end of the field to the other, such was the extent of the downpour. However, the weather will not bother Fuerty too much as they swept into the final after an excellent display, given the conditions. Malachy Gately’s men were the better side by some distance and it was only a goal scrambled home by Jack Gunning in the 7th minute of injury-time for Oran that gave the impression of a closer game. In the opening half Fuerty played with Gearoid Ennis and Niall Kilroy up front

and the tactic worked a treat and by the 13th minute they had opened up at 1-5 to 0-1 lead. In fact it was Oran who opened the scoring in the 2nd minute when Kieran Whyte was on target from 25 metres, but that was to be their only score until the 19th minute. In the meantime Fuerty played some excellent football in the desperate conditions. Points from Eamon Bannon, Gearoid Ennis (two frees), Niall Kilroy and Philip Neilan saw them into a four-point lead. Then in the 13th minute Eoin Whyte blasted home a great goal following good work from Eamon Bannon, Gearoid Ennis and Eoin Whyte. Oran were all at sea and out of sorts but in fairness to them they improved in the second quarter and with Thomas Fetherston dominating at centre half-back they started to make inroads into the Fuerty lead. Cathal Kenny was on target with four frees to narrow the gap down to three by the halftime whistle. Score at the break: Fuerty 1-5 Oran 0-5. With the weather worsening even more the second half was a desperate slog for the players on both sides. Fuerty started best and points from Niall Kilroy and Gearoid Ennis (free) saw then five ahead by the 38th minute. Mikey Gunning and Gearoid Ennis (free) swopped points and then Mikey Gunning’s free in the 45th minute narrowed the gap to four. It was hard going as the rain

bucketed down and scores were increasingly hard to come by. Eamon Kenny kicked a spectacular point from 50 metres out in the 22nd minute and now the gap was down to three. But as the rain got even heavier it was a total lottery and some strange refereeing decisions on both sides added to the drama. In the third minute of injurytime Thomas Bannon hooked over a point for 30 metres and then there was a long delay as Cathal Kenny went down injured and had to be stretchered off the field. Then with just over seven minutes of injury-time gone as Oran desperately searched for scores, Jack Gunning scrambled the ball into the Fuerty net – but it was too little too late as the final whistle sounded shortly after the ball was kicked out and Fuerty had qualified for the final. Best for Fuerty were Philip Neilan, Thomas and Eamonn Bannon, Niall Keenan, Niall Kilroy and Gearoid Ennis, while for Oran, Thomas Fetherston, Cathal Kenny, Eamon Kenny and sub Michael Gunning were most impressive. There were a lot of complaints afterwards from supporters of both sides at the decision to play a county semi-final on a Friday night at 8.30 pm but I presume that both clubs agreed to the fixture. Fuerty: Joe Fallon; Adam Whyte, Sean Melia, Steven Kilcommins; Peter Kellehan, Thomas Bannon (0-1), John

Stephen McCormack, Tulsk holds off the challenge from Michael Glavey’s James Brennan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Brennan; Eoin Whyte (1-0), Philip Neilan (0-1); Darragh Mullen, Eamon Bannon (0-1), Aengus Lyons; Gearoid Ennis (0-4, frees), Niall Keenan, Niall Kilroy (0-2, 1 free). Sub: Fran Hanlon for Whyte (53). Oran: Matthew Whyte; John Concannon, Kevin Concannon,

Jack Casey; Adrian Cassidy, Thomas Fetherston, Michael Dwyer; Colm Mahon, John Garvey; Jack Earley, Cathal Kenny (0-4, all frees), Eoin McGreevy; Kieran Whyte (01), Eamon Kenny (0-1), Mark Gunning. Subs: Paddy McCormack for Garvey (15), Michael

Gunning (0-2, frees) for Cassidy (25), Declan Bierne for K Whyte (42), Jack Gunning (10) for McGreevey (44), Dillon Keane for M Gunning (53). Referee: Paul Daly. Man of the Match: Thomas Bannon (Fuerty)

Glavey’s on the march Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon IFC Semi-Final Michael Glavey’s 0-13 Tulsk 1-9

Craig Burns, Tulsk gathers possession ahead of Conor Hussey, Michael Glavey’s. Picture: Andrew Fox

Michael Glavey’s dream year continues to get better and better. They were full value for their one-point win in this tense semi-final against the hot favourites Tulsk at Strokestown last Sunday. Just one year after winning the junior title, they will now contest the intermediate final against Fuerty in what will be a unique decider on October 4th. On a poor day for football it was Glavey’s who started the better, going on to withstand a late Tulsk rally to edge out the one-point winners. However they were the better side on the day and Tulsk can have no complaints. It was a good even contest early on with both sides grabbing some vital points. Stephen McCormack and Craig Burns were doing well for Tulsk but once Michael Glavey’s got going they were really impressive. Andrew Glennon, Conor Hussey and Gary Patterson were playing well and soon Glavey’s were into a four-point lead, 0-8 to 0-4. Two Tulsk points saw the margin cut to two by half-time. Points on the restart from Caoileann Fitzmaurice, Andrew Glennon and Darren O’Malley saw the margin out to five and Tulsk were now in trouble.

Patrick Morris evades the incoming challenge of Cathal O’Rourke. Picture: Andrew Fox

Two points for Tulsk from Craig Burns and Stephen McCormack saw them edge back into contention. Then with 12 minutes to go Tulsk were handed a lifeline when sub David Carlton scored a peach of a goal – and suddenly the championship favourites were back in business and on level terms. Then the sides swopped points from Conor Hussey and Stephen McCormack (free) before a late free converted by Andrew Glennon proved to be the winning score as Glavey’s pulled off a shock win. Best for Glavey’s were Conor Hussey, Andrew Glennon, Gary Patterson, James Brennan, Caoileann Fitzmaurice and Stephen Comer. Best for a disappointing Tulsk were Stephen McCormack, Craig Burns, Kieran Donoghue and sub David Carleton.

Michael Glavey’s: R Mannion; P Morris, S O’Malley, D Frayne; J Brennan, D O’Malley (0-2), S Burke (0-1); C Hussey (0-1), C Fitzmaurice (0-1); S Fagan, G Patterson, Sean Burke; C Ruane, A Glennon (0-5), S Comer (03). Subs: C Costello for Sean Burke, T Murphy for Fagan, N Morris for Ruane, T Keane for Burke. Tulsk: R Fahey; D Donoghue, S Murray, C Flanagan; P Scott, R Feeney, K Donoghue (0-2); M Dufficy, C Burns (0-3); R Galvin, D O’Rourke, S McCormack (0-4); J Conlon, D Jones, C O’Rourke. Subs: D Carleton (1-0) for C O’Rourke, T O’Rourke for Jones, C Higgins for Feeney. Referee: Ollie Kelly. Man of the Match: Caoileann Fitzmaurice (Michael Glavey’s)

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

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Donie Shines as Clann set up showdown with Brigid’s game of the weekend Seamus Duke

Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC QuarterFinal Clann na nGael 2-12 Castlerea St. Kevin’s 0-13 < DAN DOONER

Castlerea v Clann: Cathal Dineen carries possession forward for Castlerea. Picture: Andrew Fox

Clann na nGael proved too strong for a Ger Heneghaninspired Castlerea in difficult conditions, marching on to a semi-final meeting with St Brigid’s. There was a nervy opening and in truth both sides were guilty of sloppy play as the slippery conditions took their toll. Clann settled first however as Cathal and then Donie Shine struck well to settle the nerves. Heneghan put one over to get Castlerea off the mark and they were then assisted in their efforts following poor distribution from a Clann kick-out, Darren McDermott taking full advantage to level proceedings. The teams then exchanged points before Cathal Callinan burst forward and smashed the ball into the roof of the net to give Clann some breathing space. Emmet Kenny and Ger

Heneghan kept the scoreboard ticking over as the sides once again went toe to toe on a surface which didn’t provide an easy foothold. And the conditions were to play a part in putting Clann na Gael further ahead as Rory McManus slid in to force the ball over the line following an untidy goalmouth scramble. If that was the Castlerea deathknell then someone forgot to tell Heneghan, as the sharpshooter kept his team in touch with two points before scores from Cathal Dineen and Darren McDermott hauled Castlerea right back into contention. Donie Shine and Heneghan exchanged scores before the interval to leave it finely balanced in favour of Clann. Half-time: Clann 2-5 Castlerea 0-10. Castlerea started the second half brightly as Darren McDermott levelled with a fisted point before appearing to be caught late. The referee consulted his linesman which led to a black card for David Flynn. As Clann reorganised, they started to show their class with determined play from Ultan Harney providing space and possession for Donie Shine who struck beautifully to once again settle his team. Darren McDermott had to watch his attempted leveller come back off the upright before Jamie Fahy took advantage of tired Castlerea legs to increase Clann’s lead. Donie Shine and Heneghan

Castlerea v Clann: Darren McDermott extracts himself from a tackle to continue forward toward goal. Picture: Andrew Fox

then took centre stage as they struck two points apiece before Rory McManus dummied and struck a brilliant point to give Clann some security going into the closing stages. That man Shine added one more to his tally in the closing stages as Clann na nGael booked their date with St Brigid’s. Clann na nGael: R O’Reilly; A O’Reilly, D Flynn, J Connaughton; R Gavin, S Pettit, G Pettit; C Shine (0-1); U Harney (0-1); D Shine (0-6, three frees), E Kenny (0-1), C Callinan (10); R McManus (1-1), J Fahy (0-1), J Dunning (0-1). Subs: M Scally for D Flynn (black card);

F Lennon for C Callinan; D Connaughton for J Dunning; B Goode for S Pettit (blood sub). Castlerea St Kevin’s: J Duggan; P Duignan, N Collins, D Creaton; C Casey, C Dineen (01), D Quinn; F Kelly, E Kenny (0-1); R Raftery, D McDermott (0-3), N Connaughton (0-1); N Collins, G Heneghan (0-7, three frees), D Scahill. Subs: E Creaton for P Duignan; P Gunning for C Casey; S Ryan for N Connaughton; S Heneghan for D Scahill. Referee: P. Neilan. Man of the Match: Donie Shine (Clann na Gael)

Hubert the hero Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC Quarter-Final Padraig Pearses 1-12 Boyle 1-9 < DAN DOONER

It took an injury-time goal from Pearses’ Hubert Darcy to see off a dogged Boyle challenge in a raindrenched Hyde Park. Both teams emerged from their huddles fired on by committed support sheltered in the Hyde Park terraces. In a cagey opening it was Boyle goalkeeper Tadgh Lowe who converted the first score with a free-kick from distance. That was as good as it got in the opening minutes as Boyle failed to capitalise on good build-up play, firing wide on two occasions while Pearses struggled to

hold onto the ball. It wasn’t until ten minutes in that Pearses finally got off the mark, Emmet Kelly with a well-taken point from play to add to his converted free-kick moments before. Lowe hit another free to level shortly after. Pearses regained the lead through Emmet Kelly following some sterling defensive work from his teammates at the other end. Another free-kick enabled Evan McGrath to bring the sides level once more, in what was an opening twenty minutes strewn with handling errors. It was Kelly who then provided some breathing space for his team with two points without reply. The game moved towards halftime with Pearses in the ascendency and seemingly in control. Colm Brennan had other ideas however,

and he managed to punch Sean Purcell’s cross-cumhot into the back of the net on the stroke of half-time to give Boyle a one point lead at the break. The caginess reappeared at the start of the second half as both sides struggled to assert control. The tension boiled over at one stage as a melee broke out around midfield. In the aftermath the referee brandished a red card in the direction of Boyle’s Michael Hanmore. Shortly after, Sean Fahy tied up the scores after finding space, the momentum now with Pearses. Fahy then gave Shane Curran’s troops the lead with a well-struck free before Emmet Kelly added to his tally. Pearses’ Shane Dolan was then shown a black card for a cynical foul and Evan McGrath reduced the arrears from

the free. Not to be outdone, Emmet Kelly slotted over once more and regained Pearses’ two-point advantage. Boyle wouldn’t lie down however as three unanswered points gave them an unlikely lead, the pick of which came from Tadgh McKenna. Pearses’ Emmet Kelly then tapped a free over from close-range to level matters and set up a grandstand finish. The brave Boyle men kept coming, led by Killian Cox and Tadgh McKenna with two superb points to snatch a late lead. Pearses were not to be denied however as Sean Fahy kept them alive with a free and Niall Daly hit a long-range leveller. Hubert Darcy then proved the match-winner with his late goal. Pearses march on but

Boyle can hold their heads high after a gallant secondhalf display. Padraig Pearses: A McManus; S Dolan, A Butler, P Kelly; R Daly, D Murray, E Barrett; C Daly, N Daly (0-1); E Kelly (0-8, 4 frees), T Butler, D Duffy; H Darcy (1-0), N Carty, S Fahy (0-3). Subs: C Og Sullivan for S Dolan (black card); D Grehan for T Butler; E Ryan for D Duffy. Boyle: T Lowe (0-2, 1 free, 1 45); C McGowan, A Sharkey, S Purcell; Killian Cox (0-1), M Hanmore, T McKenna (0-2); Kieran Cox (0-1), R Hanmore; E McGrath (0-2, frees), C Brennan (1-0), J Suffin; D East, E Smith, C McKeon. Subs: M O’Connor (0-1) for East. Man of the Match: Emmet Kelly (Padraig Pearses).

Boyle v Padraig Pearses: Enda Smith carries possession forward for Boyle. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 18 September 2015

SportsPeople

Sad faces after the final whistle at the Roscommon v Laois Liberty Insurance Premier Junior Camogie Championship Final in Croke Park, Dublin last Sunday. Photograph: ©INPHO See pages 60 and 61.

Kepak Roscommon SHC Semi-Final Previews

Still no new manager – as league ﬁxtures announced All eyes on McStay and‘dream team’ < SEAMUS DUKE

At the time of going to press there is still no news on the appointment of a successor to John Evans as manager of the Roscommon senior football team. Four weeks ago following the resignation of Mr. Evans the Roscommon County Board Chairperson Mick Fahey said that he was confident that he “would come back to the clubs with a name within four weeks at the latest and sooner if possible.”

However there is no news yet of a new management set-up, with speculation about Evans’ successor continuing to focus on former Mayo star Kevin McStay. While McStay has remained tightlipped, the belief is that he is interested in the role but that he would be likely to insist on a ‘dream team’ to include Fergal O’Donnell, Liam McHale and David Casey – however that is mere speculation at this stage. It is hoped that an announcement will be made within the next two weeks. Meanwhile the fixtures for the new National Football League season have been published and in Division One

Roscommon will have four home games in 2016. Roscommon’s campaign will start against Monaghan on January 31st at home and there are also home games against Down, Mayo and Dublin. Roscommon will face a long journey for their three away games which are in Donegal, Kerry and Cork. The full programme of games is – January 31st: Roscommon v Monaghan; 7th February: Kerry v Roscommon; 28th February: Cork v Roscommon; 6th March: Roscommon v Down; 13th March: Donegal v Roscommon; 27th March: Roscommon v Mayo; 3rd April: Roscommon v Dublin.

Four Roads and Pearses for ﬁnal? < SEAMUS DUKE

Four Roads v Athleague in Athleague on Saturday at 4 pm The old rivals meet in what should be a close semi-final but Four Roads have to be fancied to make another final. They have not set the world alight in the championship so far this season but they have the knack of coming good at the right time of the year. Noel Fallon, Micheal Kelly, Johnny Moran, Johnny Coyne, Jamie Lawlor, Cathal Dolan and Mark McLoughlin are just some of the many Four Roads players with huge experience and they will be hard to beat again in this semi-final. Athleague have been working hard under Mervyn Connaughton but the loss of a couple of their better young players to emigration at the start of the year has hit their chances here. Colm Moran, Niall Connolly, Colm Moran and Cormac Kelly will be hoping to lead Athleague to what would be a great win for them but once again it is impossible to see beyond Four Roads and they should be good enough to get to yet another decider. People Sport Prediction: Four Roads.

Padraig Pearses v Oran in Athleague on Saturday at 5.30 pm Pearses should be the favourites to win here. They have a number of excellent young players who should add to their challenge. When you add in players like Tomas Seale, the Sweeneys, David Loughnane and Cathal Kelly, it looks a potent mix. Youngsters like Daniel Glynn and Karl Feehily will surely have a say in this semi-final too. Oran have been hit by injuries in recent weeks. To add to their woes, Cathal Kenny was carried off playing for the footballers last weekend and remains a doubt for Saturday. Jerry Fallon, Thomas Fetherston, Mike Dwyer. Michael Donoghue and the Crehans will surely boost the Oran effort. Oran’s chances could well hinge on whether Cathal Kenny is fit to play. I am going to side with Pearses because of their greater strength in depth. People Sport Prediction: Padraig Pearses.