2015 11 27 by Roscommon People

The BIGGEST readership of ANY Roscommon newspaper! Readership is now 80,000 people every week!

www.roscommonpeople.ie www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel. (090) 66 34633 Fax: (090) 66 34303

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SOCIAL PEOPLE

27 November 2015

SEE PAGES 44 - 45

The Local Paper

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

VOLUME: 453

HANDS OFF ROSCOMMON! < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

‘AN EVENING WITH PERCY FRENCH’

A new group, called ‘Save

Roscommon’, has been established to stop what it says are clear attempts to move south Roscommon into Co. Westmeath. In June, Environment Minister Alan Kelly established a boundary commission to review the local government boundary in Athlone, with a view to it being governed solely by Roscommon

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Pictured at ‘An Evening With Percy French’ in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Friday night last were Tish Dunleavy, Pat Rehill and JP O’Dowd. Picture: Andrew Fox

Byrne Carolan Cunningham -----Solicitors----T: 090 64 78433 Please see our Column on Page 2 AND Advert on Page 4

Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan MEP

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TEL. 094-9622710 / 094 9622244 MOBILE: 086 3685680 Standing up for the small farmer on CAP

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or Westmeath County Council. However, Save Roscommon, a community organisation, are convinced that it will recommed that the Westmeath local authority fulfil that role. Save Roscommon spokesperson Ger Aherne said: “We must stop this land-grab. We must ensure south Roscommon is not annexed. “We must save Roscommon.” (Full story, page 22).

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

Painting Services Professional Painters & Decorators Stephen Reynolds (086) 1987023 Enda Hoban (087) 2739726

Positive Results when it comes to chronic pain Positive Results Health is a Private Chartered Physiotherapy clinic located in Hodson Bay on the Roscommon

side of Athlone. Darragh Sheehy the owner and Chartered Physiotherapist prides the clinic on the quality of care given to each client and on the results which clients get who attend the clinic. HOW ARE WE DIFFERENT? Longer Appointments: Each Physiotherapy appointment lasts 60 mins so that we spend the necessary time to help you reduce your pain. This is considerably longer than other clinics and allows us to really get the best results possible for you. Experience: The majority of clients who come to Positive Results Health are those who suffer with back or neck pain. We use a specialist approach to dealing with back pain and have 1000s of hours of experience in helping people get out of pain. Long term results: We look to find out the reason you are in pain rather than addressing the symptoms. This ensures lasting results and has worked in getting many clients out of pain and back to what is important in life. If you are in pain and looking to help yourself become painfree then call 09064 46978 today. Clinic Hours 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday; (by appointment only); Hodson Bay, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

Church of Ireland hosts table quiz and fun day The Church of Ireland in Roscommon are holding a table quiz on Friday, December 4, in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon town (9.30 pm). This is the second year of the event, in aid of the St Coman’s Restoration Fund. Once again, it promises to be an entertaining and worthwhile evening for the community. The event, followed by a small auction, begins at 9.30 pm. On Saturday, December 12, a community fun day is scheduled for 2 pm to 5 pm at the CORE building (former Methodist Church), Church Street, Roscommon. There will be crafts, games, light refreshments and perhaps a visit from a certain gentleman from the North Pole. Admission: €2 per person. You are warmly invited to come and listen to thoughts shared from the Bible in in HANNON’S HOTEL, Roscommon Town Sunday 29th November, 6th & 13th December; Friday 27th November and 4th December We simply wish to convey the teachings of Jesus Talks are free; hymn singing included and everyone is very welcome

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Pictured is Siobhan Nestor from Roscommon town, who graduated with a BSc in Pharmacy from RCSI (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland) at the recent graduation ceremony in Dublin.

TABLE QUIZ in aid of St. Coman’s Church of Ireland, Roscommon

Restoration Fund Friday 4th December, at 9.30pm Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon – All are welcome –

Dolores Gacquin Solicitor Tel: 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie

Inheritance Tax I recently received a substantial cash inheritance from my uncle. I am concerned however that I may now be liable for inheritance tax. I understand that an inheritance up to a certain amount may be tax-free, is this correct? A person is entitled to receive a gift or inheritance up to a certain value without being liable for inheritance tax which is also known as Capital Acquisition Tax. The amount of tax payable depends on the amount of the gift or inheritance and the relationship between the parties. The tax-free amount, or threshold, varies depending on your relationship to the person giving the benefit. For tax purposes the relationships are categorised into three different groups namely Group A, B and C. Group A applies where the beneficiary i.e. the person receiving the gift or inheritance is a child of the person giving that gift or inheritance (disponer). This includes a stepchild and an adopted child. It may also include a parent, foster child, and a favourite niece or nephew in certain limited circumstances. Group B applies where the beneficiary is a grandparent, grandchild, great-grandchild, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, nephew or niece of the disponer. A parent who does not qualify under Group A will fall into Group B. Group C applies to any relationship not included in Group A or Group B. The amount that can be received tax free is known as the threshold. The current threshold for Group A is €280,000, Group B is €30,150 and Group C is €15,075. A gift or inheritance up to the threshold amount does not attract Capital Acquisition Tax. A gift or inheritance above the threshold amount will attract tax of 33% on that amount in excess of the threshold. If you receive a gift or inheritance from your spouse or civil partner, you are exempt from Capital Acquisitions Tax. This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. 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

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough & Galway

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Ballaghaderreen Secondhand Furniture The Square, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Tel: 087 3877410

Massive Stock Clearance Sale DUE TO OVER STOCK ● Thursday 19th ● Friday 20th ● Saturday 21st ● Thursday 26th ● Friday 27th ● Saturday 28th Couches, Tables & Chairs, Wardrobes, Lockers, Beds, Dining Room Furniture, Bedside Lamps, Pictures Everything you want for your home UP TO 50% OFF SOME STOCK Free Delivery

Secrid Wallets from Donnellan & Co. – Exclusive Stockist Get him the perfect gift this Christmas with a Secrid Wallet from Donnellan & Co.This new era of technology calls for an innovative type of wallet and Secrid wallets do exactly that delivering both security and style. Secrid wallets are small on the outside but surprisingly big on the inside incorporating the ultra-thin aluminium card protector. With over 25 styles and colours now available in store, this is certainly one for the wish list this Christmas. Available from Donnellan & Co., Main Street, Roscommon, (090) 662 6334. www.donnellan.ie

ROSCOMMON Driving School 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Week 3. The hatred continues to bubble in my cauldron of contempt. While you may have thought I had run out of steam, I shall renounce yet another girly attribute that has been unfairly foisted onto womankind: romance. To be clear, I am not exactly flinging eggs at young couples on the street. I am solely criticising the mawkish grick that is perpetuated in Katherine Heigl movies. Despite monumental leaps forward in feminism and the diversification of gender roles, we cannot shake the residual dregs of a Byron-esque era whereby men produced flowers and women swooned in frilly dresses. Today, the very same importance is attached to a bouquet of roses, but this time it is a Facebook post, praising the very best boyfriend that ever existed. No mention of what he did to necessitate the roses. No suggestion that the gesture was clichéd at best and glaringly impersonal at worst. No

attempt to mask the Aldi sticker. I’ve seen more Shakespearean efforts on Jeremy Kyle. The internet is littered with these daily proclamations of lust; a fauxmance that blossomed in the early days of Bebo love and matured into the enduringly romantic Facebook poke. PUBLIC PROPOSALS. Who in the name of Lucifer ever deemed this an acceptable practice? It basically translates as: I am not asking you to marry me; rather, I am subjecting you to an enormous amount of peer pressure to agree, and if you say no, you are a giant bitch. Swell. Since when did flash mobs and big screens constitute romance? I’ve had people tell me I’d be lucky to be proposed to at this rate, but if that rules out a diamond ring in a fecking slice of cake, then I’ll gladly buy that oneway ticket to Spinsterville. Despite all of my beliefs, does the fact that I am in a committed relationship make it hypocritical

of me to lambast the romantic world? Perhaps. The difference is that my linkage to the other half on Facebook is not exactly to declare our love but rather to fend off attention from unwanted female predators. I am in effect, peeing in a circle around him to establish a base level of understanding to the outside world. In some ways, I do want it to be known that I am with S.O., as generally, I am quite fond of him and haven’t killed him yet. Furthermore, I am not resisting the allure of everyday romance. While I am not exactly carried over the threshold to bed every night, I do receive a generous shove to awaken my couch slumber. When I get home, there is still at least one square of Galaxy left. And hoovering! After two years, I still do not know what our hoover looks like and yet our apartment remains by and large, debris free thanks to S.O. Now that’s romance. Fecking Love, Actually up in here.

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

Christmas shopping at Ardcarne Garden Centre Get into the festive spirit with a visit to the Ardcarne Christmas shop, Boyle and Roscommon Town and enter a glittery wonderland that’s a showcase for all the latest Christmas styles and trends. You’ll also find some perfect gifts for family and friends, whether they are green fingered or not!

ferent styles in a range of sizes to suit all rooms and budgets. All the trees have hinged branches, which means they are easy to assemble and take down and best of all – you will always have your ideal tree every year, just the day you need it!

NEW STYLES

Christmas lights have also changed significantly in recent years, with the bright and energy efficient LEDs now firmly established as the favourite for decorating trees, garlands and other places around your home and garden. Battery lights, for using indoors or outside, are perfect for illuminating small features, containers or plants and are ideal for garlands. Look out for a new range of illuminated animals such as polar bears and reindeer, suitable for inside or outdoors to bring a bit of seasonal sparkle.

As always the range of decorations and lights in the Ardcarne Christmas Shop changes every year, chosen from the best and latest styles from international collections. These are timeless decorations you will treasure for many years and they’ll bring back cherished family memories every Christmas. To highlight these newest fashions, the Ardcarne Christmas Shop is beautifully colour-themed and full of inspiration for decorating your home. This year’s themes include Luxury Lodge, combining gold, truffle and copper shades, giving a warm luxurious effect. Classic Twist offers a snazzy take on traditional Christmas shades of red, holly green, violet and gold. Other themes include Winter Light capturing the purity of frozen nature in shades of winter white, jeans blue and wool grey while Silent Romance evokes all that’s soft and chic in shades of pearl, blush pink and hazy lilac, with vintage details. Children are sure to enjoy finding their own favourites from the treasure trove of collections in the Christmas Shop and take delight in the sparkly festive surroundings. TREE TREND

One of the big trends of recent years is investing in an artificial Christmas tree. The quality and life-like appearance of the trees at Ardcarne Garden Centre is testament to their popularity and you can choose from up to 20 dif-

LATEST LIGHTS

CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR EVERYONE

There are plenty of Christmas gift ideas for all the family at Ardcarne Garden Centre, whether they are green fingered or not! This year look out for local interest cards and calendars from Willow Design, exquisite candles and fragrance diffusers from Brooke & Shoals, wind chimes from the famous Woodstock company, a fantastic selection of planted pots for instant colour, elegant orchids, bird care and of course the ever popular Ardcarne Garden Centre gift tokens. Remember to call in to the Ardcarne Garden Café if visiting our Boyle branch for a tempting selection of light lunches, homemade soups and breads and a range of scrumptious cakes and desserts. For further information and news of forthcoming events check out the website www.ardcarneplantsplus.ie and facebook

Be inspired by beautiful themed displays at the Ardcarne Christmas Shop.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople

Open doors to employment National Learning Network’s Employer Based Training is a free ﬂexible course. that enables you to acquire practical skills with a host company in an area of your choice, with full supports for both student and employer. Pictured are the team from Castlerea Community School, whose entry – ‘Alcohol in Ireland-Is there a problem?’ – won the Western Regional Drugs Task Force annual public speaking competition recently. In the picture are: Sarah Sharkey, Luke Madden, Chloe Murray, Shane Gordon, Robert Callaghan. Back: Emmet Major, Oliver Lennon, Aine Mullarkey and Martin Lee.

Employer-based training might be for you At a time of economic difficulty everyone is finding it more difficult to enter or re-enter the workforce. National Learning Network (NLN) staff both in Castlerea and nationally have a wealth of knowledge and experience in supporting people who might find it difficult to gain employment or to develop the skills to move forward with careers. Employer Based Training (EBT) delivered by NLN provides this training and support services to people out of work due to illness, disability or other health challenges. So far this year we have had an employment success rate of over 65%, which is a great achievement. In addition to the high quality training provided by our team of

Instructors and support staff NLN has forged excellent links with the commercial and business life of county Roscommon and surrounding areas. Course coordinator Damien explores with the student their previous employment history and career choice going forward. Together we secure valuable work experience three days a week in the chosen field. The other two days training is based in the centre gaining specific work related skills. With this holistic approach the learner will also gain support from other centre staff to set realistic goals to work towards. This is tailored to every individual attending the course. During the EBT twelve months

training programme you will have an opportunity to build on certification QQI (FETAC) at Level 4 or 5. The main focus of employer-based training is gaining employment or progress into higher education. The centre is a registered QQI centre offering Major Awards at Levels 3 to 5. Anyone wishing to obtain more information on our courses and supports should contact the centre at Millstream House, Williamstown Road, Castlerea on 094-9620374 or email castlerea@ nln.ie. Full details on all NLN course are also available from D.S.P. Employment Services, Government Buildings, Convent Road, Roscommon.

If you have an illness, disability or are long-term unemployed, this twelve month course offers you the personalised support you might need to gain a QQI qualiﬁcation.

Find out more, contact Damien at: 086 048 7104 | damien.allard@nln.ie | www.nln.ie | facebook.com/NLNIreland

River Jiggy is ‘moderately polluted’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found the River Jiggy (Hind), near Roscommon town, to be “moderately polluted”. On Wednesday, the EPA released a report on waste water treatment in 2014. They found that the only waste water discharge facility in Co. Roscommon that failed their test was in Tarmonbarry. In effect, this meant that too much raw sewerage was being pumped into the water course. Separately, the EPA also provided an update on ‘seriously polluted river

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sites’, one of which was the River Jiggy (Hind) in Roscommon town. They said that there had been an improvement in its quality, but that it remained “poor status or moderately polluted”. The report added: “Further water quality improvements are necessary at this river sites, so that it is brought up to at least good status (unpolluted) and meets the requirements of the Water Framework Directive.” The River Jiggy, a tributary of the River Hind, rises in the Ranelagh area to the northwest of the county town.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople

Santa Claus is coming to Towncentre! He may be busy making his list and checking it twice but this Saturday (28th November), Santa Claus and his helpers make their way from the North Pole to Athlone Towncentre Shopping Centre. Santa will be assisted in making his arrival to Athlone Towncentre by the members of Athlone Fire Brigade and will be greeted by Attitude Dance Schools Cheerleading Team. As part of the arrival parade, Santa will be joined by his elves and a number of festive characters to keep all the family entertained. There will also be a massive confetti drop on his arrival as part of the festive celebrations. Once again this year Athlone Town-

centre is delighted to announce that visits to Santa’s Grotto are completely free. Every child visiting Santa’s grotto also receives a free goodie bag which includes a festive reindeer antler hat, colouring book and pencils, a wish-list door hanger, activity sheets, sweet treat and an all-important report card for parents to leave out for Santa on Christmas Eve! To celebrate Santa’s arrival there will also be balloon modelling throughout the afternoon. For full details of Santa’s grotto hours and all upcoming events at Athlone Towncentre Shopping Centre visit www.athlonetowncentre. com.

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Pictured is Ronan Kelly, son of Senator John and Bríd Kelly, with his dancing teachers from the Sylvan Kelly School of Dancing after winning his eighth consecutive Connaught Irish dancing title in Castlebar recently.

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News from the Europe Direct Centre @Ballinasloe Library

EU Commission: Commission speeds up new firearms controls The European Commission has put forward measures to make it more difficult to buy firearms in the European Union, better track legally held weapons, strengthen cooperation between Member States, and ensure that deactivated firearms are rendered inoperable. This week’s proposals were already planned in the European Security Agenda adopted in April 2015, but have been speeded up in light of recent events. The proposals will see stricter and more harmonised controls and more efficient exchange of information. President Juncker said: “The recent terrorist attacks on Europe’s people and values were coordinated across borders, showing that we must work together to resist these threats. Today’s proposal, prepared jointly by Commissioners Elżbieta Bieńkowska and Dimitris Avramopoulos, will

help us tackle the threat of weapons falling into the hands of terrorists. We are proposing stricter controls on sale and registration of firearms, and stronger rules to irrevocably deactivate weapons. We will also come forward with an Action Plan in the near future to tackle illicit arms trafficking. Organised criminals accessing and trading military grade firearms in Europe cannot and will not be tolerated.” The package of measures on firearms adopted by the College of Commissioners includes the following elements: 1. A revision of the Firearms Directive, to tighten controls on the acquisition and possession of firearms 2. An Implementing Regulation on common minimum standards for deactivation of firearms 3. An action plan against the illegal trafficking of weapons and explosives

www.europa.eu for further information

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople

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Strokestown area could lose its ‘boil water’ notice < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The ‘boil water’ notices affecting around 5,000 people in the Strokestown and surrounding areas could be lifted in the very near future, local councillors Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fáil) and Valerie Byrne (Independent) have said. In a joint statement, they said that Irish Water’s ultra violet system in place on the North East Water supply would be operational in the “coming

weeks”. They said that, subject to further testing by the Health Service Executive and Environmental Protection Agency, the notice could then be removed. They added: “We met with Irish Water in Roscommon town on Monday last along with Kieran Madden, of Roscommon County Council, and were informed of the impending good news. “We also queried the installation of the permanent system and were

informed that the contract, once its signed, could be completed in nine months. “We welcome the progress made and look forward to the ‘boil water’ notice disappearing shortly.” At present, people in the various areas in northeast Roscommon – including Strokestown, Elphin, Tulsk, Scramogue, Tarmonbarry and Slatta – are subject to ‘boil water’ notices, due to an outbreak of crytosporidium.

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The Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm Community Fund deadline for receipt of applications is Friday 4th Dec 2015 @ 5pm. The Community Fund will prioritise projects and initiatives that VXSSRUW DQG EHQHȴW WKH DUHD VXUURXQGLQJ 6OLDEK %DZQ PRXQWDLQ The fund is available to community and voluntary groups, not for SURȴW JURXSV RU RUJDQLVDWLRQV ZLWK D FKDULWDEOH VWDWXV $ NH\ FULWHULD LV WKDW WKH IXQG LV XVHG WR EHQHȴW WKH ORFDO FRPPXQLW\ DV D ZKROH For more information on Sliabh Bawn Wind Farm and to access the funding application form please see: www.sliabhbawnwindfarm.ie

Feighan on funding for Community College

Pictured at ‘An Evening With Percy French’ in the Abbey Hotel on Friday night last were Monica Mahon, Luke Earley and Pearl Kielty. Picture: Andrew Fox

Fine Gael TD for Roscommon/South Leitrim, Frank Feighan, has welcomed funding approval for electrical works at Roscommon Community College in Roscommon town. “I’m very pleased that funding has been granted for the necessary works at Roscommon Community College in Lisnamult which will now enable work to proceed once the tendering process has been completed,” he said. “This welcome allocation has been sanctioned by the School Building Unit at the Department of Education.”

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople

Prison ‘distorts’ Castlerea crime ﬁgures < PAUL HEALY

The Chairperson of Enterprise Castlerea has taken issue with the depiction of Castlerea as the town in County Roscommon with the highest crime rate, insisting that the presence of a prison in Castlerea completely distorts the official figures. Benny O’Connell says he believes that, when crimes conducted inside the prison are omitted, the actual crime rate in Castlerea is well below the national average. The Ireland edition of The Times recently published crime rates for every Garda station in the country, based on information provided by the Central Statistics Office and An Garda Síochána. Castlerea’s crime rate rose by 16.2 per cent in the year ending in June, compared to the previous year, with a total of 294 crimes recorded.

Speaking to the Roscommon People on Monday, well-known businessman Benny O’Connell, chairperson of Enterprise Castlerea, said he had spoken to the Gardai on the figures. He was not disputing the accuracy of the figures but wished to bring to the public’s attention the ‘role’ of crime in the prison in “distorting” the figures. “The reality is that we have a prison in Castlerea…there are many internal crimes there, assaults and so on. These very much distort the figures for Castlerea. When the ‘prison figures’ are taken out, I would be satisfied that Castlerea is below the national average in crime terms. “We have a very successful CCTV project here in Castlerea which is working well and we feel the community and the Gardai work well together and the town is an extremely friendly, safe and popular place for locals and visitors.”

LETTER TO EDITOR Dear Editor, I wish to respond to an article in your newspaper regarding crime rates in Co. Roscommon. The headline stated Castlerea had the highest crime rate. While this may seem correct a certain factor has to be taken into consideration when looking at the figures. The statistics relate to crimes logged at each Garda station from the area the station covers. When looking at the Castlerea figures, your reporter should have considered the area covered by the station. With regard to the Castlerea figures, crimes

committed in a large area surrounding Castlerea and inside the walls of Castlerea Prison are investigated and logged at Castlerea Garda Station. This has distorted the figures, giving the impression Castlerea has a very high crime rate. In fact if the crimes committed inside the walls of the prison were taken out, our town would be no different than any other town in our county. I would appeal to you to print the actual figures for every town in the county and acknowledge the prison figures has distorted the

Castlerea figures. The people of Castlerea are very proud of their town and many people have found this article hurtful and damaging to our town. Yours sincerely, Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice Eoghan Young-Murphy writes: “I stand by the story completely. I was quoting from a reputable source, the Ireland edition of The Times, which said that Castlerea had the highest crime rate in Co. Roscommon, with a rate of 4.9 per 100 population.”

Pictured is UTV Ireland presenter Joe Mahon speaking to local farmer and artist James Moran.

Athleague to feature in UTV Ireland’s Lesser Spotted Journeys UTV Ireland’s exclusive series Lesser Spotted Journeys continues as presenter Joe Mahon embarks on a visit to Athleague, Co. Roscommon, airing on Tuesday, 2nd December at 7.30 pm. The brand new travel and ‘chat show of the hedgerows’ will visit some of Ireland’s lesser known sites and destinations, and will give an in-depth insight into each area visited, including interviews with local historians and craftspeople. This week’s episode follows Joe and the team as they travel to the village of Athleague on the banks of the River Suck. Local businessman Bernard Keane talks to Joe about the multiple times the river has burst its banks throughout its history, and how the local community all came together to support one another during the particularly bad floods in 2009. Pat Lane chats to Joe about the Suck’s function as the local swimming pool and the fact that the entire village learns to swim there.

Later, Joe goes in search of one of Athleague’s more reclusive members – the bank vole. Rebecca Dobson of the National Parks and Wildlife Service takes Joe to a graveyard in the hopes of spotting one. Following his trip to the cemetery, Joe meets local animal lover and artist Ora Kilroe, known for her drawings and paintings of horses in the 1940s. Joe encounters a herd of Ora’s favourite animal when he chats to a huge admirer of the celebrated painter, local farmer and artist, James Moran. Finally, the team encounters another wellknown local with a fascinating history, Helga Mullins. Joe hears the remarkable and poignant story of how she first fell in love with the place when she came here as a child from Germany after the Second World War to be fostered by the French family of Bushy Park. The episode will air at 8 pm next Tuesday (2nd December) on UTV Ireland.

Visit Santa and Dancer and Prancer at Glendeer Pet Farm Opening 28th Nov until 23rd of Dec

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www.glendeerpetfarm.ie

It’s not every day that you arrive at a farm decorated with thousands of twinkling lights, meet Santa and his deer Dancer and Prancer or see a crib with a live cow and donkey, except of course when you visit Ireland’s Lapland at Glendeer Pet Farm. Glendeer Pet Farm, which is located just outside Athlone off the M6 (Tuam/Monksland exit 13, follow Drum signs) has all facilities undercover. Ireland’s Lapland has something for everyone, young and old alike. The children get their little bag of food to feed the animals as they make their way over to see Santa, have a chat with him and receive a gift. Adults can treat themselves to fresh coffee/cappucino and homemade snacks in the warm surroundings of the cosy coffee shop. There is plenty to entertain the kids with the indoor skywalk play area with lots of slides and bridges so Glendeer is perfect even on those wet or snowy days, just remember to wrap up warm! This year Santa arrives by sleigh on Saturday, 28th November at 5 pm and will be at the farm every evening until the 23rd December. Special rates for groups of 20 and over, catered for by appointment during the day. Admission: Adults €8, Children €16 (includes visit to Santa and gift). Opening times for Ireland’s Lapland: Monday to Friday (4 pm-7 pm), Saturday and Sunday (3 pm-7 pm). New this year is the indoor soft play toddler area and follow the trail through the Winter Wonderland to the new secret sand pit. For more information visit www.glendeerpetfarm.ie, find us on facebook.com/GlendeerPetFarm or contact us on 090-6437147.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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New Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe debuts at Michael Moore Michael Moore Mercedes-Benz has unveiled details of its new CClass Coupé – a car they describe as “boldly sporty” and the last in a trilogy of new C-Class introductions following the successful arrival in recent times of the popular C-Class Saloon and Estate variants. Set to arrive at Michael Moore Mercedes in mid-December, the new 2-door C-Class Coupé comes with what Mercedes-Benz calls ‘perfect coupé proportions’ evident in its sporty extended bonnet, streamlined body section and distinctive, sporty rear end. Longer and wider than its predecessor it offers improved interior spaciousness with more shoulder, elbow and head room on all seats. Inside, driver and passengers enjoy an ambience akin to the saloon and estate. In keeping with what is now an established policy by MercedesBenz, the new C-Class Coupé will launch with a range of standard features not offered on the outgoing model. These include Artico leather upholstery, heated front seats, satellite navigation, Parktronic parking assistance and LED static lights. Petrol models begin with a 1.5-litre, 156hp C180 version which will launch at a lowest-in-range price of €44.550 ex works. Three additional models, all 2-litres, are a 184hp C200 launching at €45,860, a 211hp C250 at €50,265 and a 245hp C300 at €54,080.

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Diesel models are a 170hp C220d at €45,900 and a more powerful 204hp C250d Automatic at just €51,470. Standard safety elements include Attention Assist driver drowsiness alert system and Collision Prevention Assist Plus that can apply brake pressure automatically to help prevent collisions. Tech features, depending on model choice, include a form of ‘intelligent’ air conditioning that operates in unison with satellite navigation to detect tunnels and make appropriate adjustments. Others include a sound system

with concert hall clarity, Bluetooth and internet connectivity, data transfer capability and other features to facilitate internet surfing a1nd Apps use. Revealing what he termed “a significant level of pre-launch interest”, Ciaran Allen, sales manager for Mercedes-Benz said that “alongside its saloon and estate siblings, the new C-Class Coupé presents Irish motorists with a very competitive, stylish and well-equipped model offering right at the heart of what is a rapidly expanding MercedesBenz model range.”

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled details of its new C-Class Coupé.

Raid My Runway to feature Xposé reporter’s wardrobe Lisa Canon is currently a Showbiz Reporter for Ireland’s Primetime Entertainment Show, Xposé, which is broadcast on TV3, weekdays at 6 pm. Fans of Xposé will now be able to buy some items from Lisa’s very own personal wardrobe this Saturday at the Raid My Runway Pop Up Rail Sale event at the Abbey Hotel, including some items, which she has worn to some of the most glamorous events in show business. “Lisa has also kindly offered us one of her stunning party dresses to sell at our event and if sold, the proceeds of this dress will go to Crumlin’s Children’s Hospital. Lisa tells me she wore this dress to a recent film premiere where she interviewed movie star Kate Winslet, so we are thrilled to have this dress to sell on the day of our event. We hope to sell it at a good price for Crumlin Children’s Hospital, it would be a stunning outfit to wear for your upcoming Christ-

Lisa Canon

mas party night” says Geraldine Grealy, Organiser. For Xposé, Lisa reports from the most exclusive red carpet events, movie premieres and awards, rock concerts and access all areas backstage parties. Why not come along and you too can buy some bargains from Lisa’s ‘Pre Loved Personal

Wardrobe Rail’ this Saturday at the Abbey Hotel and perhaps create your very own red carpet moment in one of Lisa’s signature pieces. Check out facebook.com/raidmyrunwayrail or come along Saturday to the Abbey Hotel, doors open from 2 pm-6 pm with free admission.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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Pictured at ‘An Evening With Percy French’ in the Abbey Hotel on Friday night last were Colm O’Reilly, Patricia Woods and Seán Mahon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Huge housing project for south Roscommon? < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

There are plans to develop one of the largest housing developments in the county since the economic boom, with 70 new homes proposed for Cloongowna, Bealnamullia, in south Roscommon. In a planning notice, Slevin Brothers said that they intended to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to, firstly, develop 20 two-storey semi-detached houses, with three bedrooms each.

The application will also seek permission to build 20 two-bedroom apartments – two blocks of four units and four blocks of three units. All blocks would be two storeys high and would be in a terrace. The final component of the application would be for 30 two-storey semi-detached houses, all of which would have four bedrooms. New roads would be build to access the properties, while a playground and landscaping would be provided for leisure purposes.

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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Castlecoote man’s creation a Christmas hit? ‘The Field’, a miniature toy field of artificial grass, was created by Castlecoote’s Padraic Cuddy and has captured children’s imaginations. ‘The Field’ can be used as a farm field, a car park for toy cars – while some girls have been using it for garden parties. There is a possibility that the product will be showcased on the Late Late Toy Show, which will be broadcast on this Friday night, November 27. The same day, a pop-up shop for ‘The Field’ will open on Main Street, Roscommon town, aimed at the Christmas market. It will be open from 10 am to 6 pm and will also open on Sundays nearer to Christmas from noon to 6 pm. ‘The Field’ also comes with registry deeds.

Retailing at €39.95, ‘The Field’ is available to purchase on www.thefield.ie or by contacting Padraic on 0878380618. To mark the opening of the

shop, ‘The Field’ has one product to give away to a lucky reader. To be in with a chance, answer the simple question below.

Pictured at the recent launch of the Hodson Bay Health & Leisure 10 Year Anniversary Celebration Day, which takes place on Sunday, 10th January are Ollie Lennon, Leisure Centre Manager, TV star Kathryn Thomas, and Todor Tilev, Leisure Centre Team.

Launch of 10th birthday celebrations at Hodson Bay Health & Leisure

Be in with a chance to win your very own Field! When will ‘The Field’ pop-up shop open in Roscommon town? Answer:

______________________________________ Tel. number: _____________________________

Name: ______________________________

Address: ___________________________________________

Send your answers on a postcard marked ‘The Field’ to the Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon before Friday 4th December

To mark ten years in business, Hodson Bay Health & Leisure are delighted to launch their ‘10 Year Anniversary Celebration Day’. Taking place on Sunday, January 10th from 2 pm-5 pm, the event is aimed at thanking loyal members for their continued support over the years and welcoming new and prospective members. The day is set to be

jam packed with entertainment from face painting and a magic show to spot prizes, giveaways and delicious smoothie samples for the adults- it bodes to be a wonderful day out for all the whole family. The dedicated leisure centre team will be on hand to join in the fun, and showcase some of the new classes on offer. New

members are welcome to meet the team and take a look around the fantastic facilities. Special 2016 membership packages and discounts will be available on the day for new members, so why not pop along and get your 2016 off to a healthy start! For more information on the special day, please contact 090 6442010.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople Christmas Day GOAL Mile in Roscommon

J Keane & Sons Volkswagen (Roscommon) Open Week J Keane & Sons (Ros) Ltd, authorised Volkswagen dealer serving counties Roscommon and Leitrim for over 40 years, are pleased to announce that they are hosting an Open Week beginning this coming Monday, November 30th until the 7th of December. During this week they will be showcasing the fabulous 2016 Volkswagen range including the all new Touran 7 seater with 5 ISOfix points as standard. Fantastic offers are also available including 3 years free servicing, free 2016 upgrade packs and half-price R-Line exterior styling packs for on selected models when you order your new 161 Volkswagen with them during Open Week. All this with exceptional finance offers from Volkswagen Bank. Call in to their showrooms on Lanesboro Street during Open Week and meet their experienced sales team who can instantly arrange great finance offers on site. There really has never been a better time to buy a new Volkswagen at J Keane & Sons. Visit vwjk.ie for further information.

Ballaghaderreen Chamber’s Christmas Initiative Registration deadline is this Friday! Ballaghaderreen Chamber are pleased to announce their €5,000 Christmas Customer Loyalty Scheme. The Chamber invites all local businesses to the launch of their first such initiative. It will be held at 8 pm sharp in the C.D.P. office tonight (Thursday 26th). This is a free initiative but all interested parties need to be registered by the 27th of November (Friday). This can be achieved by attending the meeting or by email at info@ ballaghaderreenchamber.ie.

The 12th annual Roscommon Town Christmas Day GOAL Mile will be led this year by Independent county councillor and well-known GAA personality, Domnick Connolly. The launch will take place in P. Kelly’s Bar on Thursday, 3rd December at 10 pm. The walk will take place on Christmas Day starting from The Square at 1.30 pm sharp. Sponsorship cards will be available on the night of the launch. Further details from Seamus Duke on 086-8335380.

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Pictured is Keelan Kelly from Doughill, Curraghroe who graduated with a Batchelor of Mechanical Engineering from Sligo IT. He is pictured receiving his governing body award from Una Parsons, Head of School Engineering Sligo IT.

ON PRESENTAT OF THIS VOUCHION ER

Feighan encourages families to claim the home carers’ tax credit Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan has encouraged families to claim the home carers’ tax credit, where one spouse is staying at home to care for children or elderly relatives. Deputy Feighan noted that the tax credit available to home carers was increased in the recent Budget. “Many families do not seem to be aware of the home carers’ tax credit which is available where one spouse is staying at home to care for their children or their el-

derly or incapacitated relatives,” he said. “This is a really valuable assistance to families who wish to care for their relatives at home and it acknowledges the income many carers have to forgo income in order to complete their caring work at home. “In the recent Budget, the Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan, increased the home carers’ tax credit by €190, which will bring it up to €1,000 with effect from 2016.

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You’ll be surprised at how far your money will go during the Volkswagen Open Week. Because if you order any 161 model, we’ll give you: • Three years free servicing • A host of additional features worth up to €2,750 free • R-Line exterior styling packs for half the normal retail price And that’s on top of our flexible finance options, making your new Volkswagen even more affordable than ever. Call into J Keane & Sons during the Volkswagen Open Week from November 30th until December 7th and check out our great deals for yourself.

J Keane & Sons (Ros) Ltd., Lanesboro Street, Roscommon Town. T: 090 66 26315. vwjk.ie Touran Highline BMT 1.2 TSI 110hp CO2 emissions (g/km) 127. Combined fuel consumption 5.4l/100km. Increased weight of a vehicle, including higher trim levels and the addition of options may have an affect on the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions produced. The CO2 and fuel consumption figures are obtained from tests on a representative vehicle of the type, conducted and approved in accordance with Council Directive 80/1268/EEC as amended by Directive 1999/100/EC (or later) on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to the carbon dioxide emissions and the fuel consumption of motor vehicles. Typical Finance Example: Touran Comfortline OTRP €32,275. Deposit/Part Exchange €8,065.93. 36 monthly payments of €379. Optional final payment €12,600. Total cost of credit €2,184.93*. Subject to lending criteria. *Total cost of credit includes acceptance fee (€75) and completion fee (€75). Minimum deposit is 10%. Subject to lending criteria. This offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Volkswagen Bank GmbH is authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Free additional features and Open Week offers are only available for the duration of Open Week. This offer does not apply to fleet sales. Model shown is for illustrative purposes only. See www.volkswagen.ie for details.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople PRIME TIME VISITS ROOSKEY…

Ann Egan, Johnny McHugh, Trisha Hanley, Johnny Duffy and Laura Egan pictured at The Rooskey Centre on the occasion of a recent visit from the RTE Prime Time team. Picture: Andrew Fox

Laura Egan pictured with children from the Little Live Wires Parent and Toddler Group on the occasion of a recent visit from the RTE Prime Time team. Picture: Andrew Fox

Our senior citizens have a right to live with dignity and pride – don’t isolate them!

From My Kitchen Table

MIRIAM KERINS

Shocked by two very different deaths of elderly people in our country – and angered by the deﬁciencies within our society which they highlight – our columnist appeals to readers to look out for vulnerable family, friends and neighbours… Few things shock me; maybe I’m becoming accustomed to bad news, I really hope that I’m not. However, last week’s sad news that a lady in her 80s was found dead in her Wexford home, having lain undiscovered for a staggering two months, really took the wind out of my sails. To those neighbours, sorry ‘shocked neighbours,’ who clambered like rats off a sinking ship, and who fell over themselves to speak with the Irish Independent in an effort to garner some precious column inches with their pathetic, whiney and contemptible, “We didn’t really know too much about her. She is from Wexford County I believe. All I really know is that she had been living in the town for some time,” and “I know she doesn’t have any family in the area;” I have to say, shame on you; you’re a disgrace; you’ve got the collective compassion of a boiled beetroot. In fact readers, call me cruel and nasty if you like, but in my opinion, if humanity were a crime, these heartless neighbours’ faces would be top of our country’s ‘most wanted’ list; along with those of this poor lady’s family; if indeed she does have any still living – because you all left her desolate; depriving her of human contact and that fact alone had to have seriously psychologically and catastrophically affected her, especially in her final moments. Now look, we know that

evolution has programmed us to mind our own business and let people get on with their lives and that’s grand; an individual is entitled to live alone and independently if they so choose; we are all entitled to privacy, but for God’s sake folks, couldn’t one neighbour/ family member have exercised a shred of decency and kept even a discreet eye on this vulnerable lady? Couldn’t one of you have taken her for a little drive to the park to smell the flowers or called around and brought a drop of hot soup and a bunch of flowers? Would that have been such a bitter pill for even just one person in the community to have swallowed? I have to say, when writing this column, I did a bit of research and what I found has alarmed me. You see readers, according to statistics compiled (and based on our last Census), there are remarkably high levels of elderly people living in isolation in rural Ireland with County Roscommon, yes, us, recording some of the highest rates (in fact our county lists the second highest rate across Ireland), of people over the age of 65 living alone. Now folks, as you lift your third cup of skinny, non-fat, non-dairy (that’s me), decaf Latte to your freshly-glossed lips with your newly-manicured paws and excitedly compare Christmas shopping lists with your mates, know that somewhere nearby there’s an elderly gentleman or an elderly lady who has nobody to engage or share a joke or a hug with; let alone a cuppa…now isn’t that alarming? But nasty things don’t just happen to our senior citizens living in rural Ireland; oh no. Last week, you probably read about 37-year-old Dubliner Sabrina Cummins; described as “a murderer and brazen, hardnosed liar,” by Mr Justice Tony Hunt, (I think you’re too polite, Your Honour) as he handed down a sentence that would see this vile

individual caged for life for the murder of vulnerable pensioner Thomas Horan. I won’t go into detail regarding the vicious torture that was visited upon this poor man, but his grisly, violent death once again drove home for me, the sheer neglect and disregard that we, as a nation, appear to have for our senior citizens who have, I think you will agree, just as much right to live with dignity and pride as the rest of us human beings! So, this week, I want to ask readers to reflect on the deaths of those two vulnerable, elderly people and spare a though for your own family, friends and neighbours who, although possibly in good physical health and appearing to be capable of taking care of themselves (for now), may, on the inside, yearn for some companionship, to just pick up the ‘phone and ask “Hi, how are you?” You never know, you too could also benefit from making that call. After all, our senior citizens have contributed to their families, their communities and their country, meaning they’ll be well equipped with a vast repository of buried memories and interesting, tantalising tales that could entertain, enlighten and educate you; possibly even resulting in a valued mutual friendship for you both. So today, as the biting, cold weather and dark, lonely nights draw in, I want to say: Kids…yes, mine included, ring your mother and not just when you need me to write you a witty slogan or a promotional business blurb! Teenagers…stop fiddling with your body piercings and ring your Nana and Grandad, they would love to hear from you and I can guarantee, as a Nana myself, they’ll derive enormous pleasure from listening to your energetic stories. Also, remember teens, grandparents are non-judgemental, meaning they’ll offer you a soothing, caring ear and

useful advice based on a lifetime of experience. If readers are passing an elderly neighbour on the street, stop and say hello. Now I have to tell you a couple of weeks ago, while driving on the motorway, I noticed an elderly lady walking along the hard shoulder; carrying a shopping bag. I immediately slowed down, indicated, stopped my car, got out and walked after her to ask if she was okay and if I could offer her assistance or a lift somewhere…well she snapped the head clean off me, snarling (that) she walks that road every day and advised me to mind my own business. I’d no choice but to leave her be, however, I was concerned for her safety and contacted the local police, telling them of my encounter and was surprised to hear, “ah yeah, that’s Mrs X, she walks that road every day into town and does her shopping, did she take the head off ya, she gets annoyed when people offer her help?” Well, while this feisty and independent senior lady is entitled to do her own thing, I’m still glad I stopped and checked up on her. So you see it’s not always straightforward but if you can, offer to help, offer to walk a dog or clean a gutter, secure a lock to a door or provide a drive to the doctor or company on a hospital visit; post a letter or contact a family member or just sit and chat and enjoy a cup of tea together. When it comes to our elderly and vulnerable, if we fail to maintain the garden of friendship and humanity their dignity will simply wither and so, sadly will they; dying tragically, alone and scared, like that poor lady in Wexford or violently like that poor man in Dublin. As we enter the season of goodwill folks, if you do nothing else this winter and before another vulnerable senior citizen crumbles and dies alone, please try to recognise the signs and show them friendship and empathy. Cheers.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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KILDUFF-KEOGH ROW: Monday is Fianna Fáil D-Day HQ ignores ultimatum from FF locally < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Fianna Fáil’s long-running investigation into the row between south Roscommon councillors John Keogh and Paddy Kilduff is now almost complete, with the committee ready to report. It is understood that party headquarters contacted the two councillors on Tuesday to ask them to travel to Dublin next Monday, November 30, at which a copy on the committee’s findings would be read out to them. Cllr. Keogh made a complaint against his party colleague in June. He made a separate complaint, of a less serious nature, against another south Roscommon member, Cllr. Ivan Connaughton. Cllr. Connaughton has confirmed that he, too, was contacted by party headquarters on Tuesday afternoon to ask that he also go to Dublin next Monday. He said that he refused to do so, however. “I welcome that they have come back, seven or eight weeks later than they said they were going to come back,” said Cllr. Connaughton. “But I think it is only fair that they

would come down to Roscommon – if they want directions, I will give them directions to the county. I also want a copy of the report, which they said they would only read out to me.” He said that he was waiting for a response to his requests. Cllrs. Keogh and Kilduff both declined to comment. Meanwhile, party headquarters have ignored local members’ request for a General Election Selection Convention to be held as a matter of urgency. Two weeks ago, Roscommon-Galway Comhairle Dáil Ceantair (CDC) issued an ultimatum to the party to call a convention within a fortnight – otherwise, they said that they would hold one themselves.

Padraig Burke, the CDC chairperson, confirmed HQ had not acceded to their call. “We have no confirmation of anything yet,” he said. A Fianna Fáil spokesperson said: “The National Constituencies Committee has received communication from the CDC and is actively considering the matter and aims to be in contact with local officers shortly.” Roscommon-Galway is now the only constituency in the country for which a Selection Convention has not yet been held. The three candidates remaining in the race are Cllr. Eugene Murphy, Larry Brennan and Seán Óg Higgins.

ANNE FARRELL

ROSCOMMON & GALWAY EAST

MY PASSION AND BELIEF IS THAT EVERYTHING BEGINS WITH EDUCATION BUT HEALTH IS OUR TRUE WEALTH • HEALTHCARE – The creation of a holistic model of healthcare which has prevention and patient care at its heart, focusing on a strategic mental health plan for the future. • EDUCATION – Early intervention, by improving the SNA structure and introducing a resilience building programme in all schools, which will help to create a healthy society. • CHILDCARE – Putting parents at the centre of childcare by expanding on community crèches and making childcare affordable by providing tax relief, divided 80/20 between the parent and the childcare provider. • HOUSING – To deal with our current housing crisis we will roll out a five year mixed accommodation housing programme, funded by the private sector and administered by local authorities, thereby building on our vision of intergenerational communities. • BUSINESS – Supporting the SME sector in local towns by removing the existing obstacles to business growth, through tax reform and social security, resulting in greater job creation. • BANKING – The creation of a fair banking system that is fit for purpose and inclusive of the unbanked population. Empowering the SME sector with a credit network based on low cost peer to peer lending. • FLAT TAX – Tax certainty at 23% puts more money in your pocket. The more you earn the more you keep, which in the long term fosters a healthy independent working population.

ANNE FARRELL

Cllr. Paddy Kilduff.

Cllr. John Keogh.

www.renuaireland.com

H G U O N E D A T H A E “I’V AITING ” W S P F O S STO BU

ROSCOMMON & GALWAY EAST Kelly’s Shop Rathnew, Oran Roscommon 0876358478 annefarrellrenua@gmail.com Anne Farrell Renua @annerenua

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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Two gardaí ‘assaulted’ in incident in Roscommon

Launch of ‘Memories of the Snug’ in JJ Harlow’s

Two gardaí were allegedly assaulted by two men in a “violent incident” near the County Library, Roscommon town, on Wednesday. A spokesperson for the Garda Press Office said that, at 1 pm, the gardaí were in the process of seizing a vehicle when its occupants became “agitated”. “The men, aged in the early 20s, ended up assaulting two gardaí,” the spokesperson said. “They were arrested under the Public Order Act and were brought to Roscommon Garda Station. They have been charged to appear at Roscommon District Court on December 15.” He said that the injuries that the gardaí received were minor, but onlookers described the incident as “violent”.

World Angling Championship conﬁrmed for Ballyleague It has been confirmed that the World Angling ‘Predator Boat’ Championship will be held in Ballyleague/ Lanesboro in October 2016, which will result in a spin-off of up to €50,000 for the local economy. The Angling Council of Ireland announced that, following a meeting in Rome last Friday, the venue had been rubberstamped to host the prestigious competition. Up to 19 countries will take part in the event. The chairman of the Lough Ree Angling Hub, Hugh Keane, said: “We are delighted with this news.” In a joint statement, local councillors Orla Leyden and Kathleen Shanagher also welcomed the news. They commended the hub on the work that they had done on developing angling tourism in the area. They said that, at a recent meeting of Roscommon Municipal District, it was agreed that Roscommon County Council would support the event. Cllrs. Leyden and Shanagher said: “The event will be a significant economic benefit to the area next year in bed nights, local spend and for years to come following the positive publicity the area, and all of Co. Roscommon, will get from the event.”

Pictured is Billy Kelly, Chairman of the Lecarrow Benevolent Fund, presenting Rose-Mary Thorpe, Cardiac Unit, Roscommon Hospital with a computer tablet for use with the Kranking Machine in the After Care Service at the Hospital. Photograph also includes Marie Doorly, Patient Services, Sean O’Brien, CNM II, Eamon Beegan, Patsy Beades, James Coffey, Carol Kelly, Mai Byrne, David Kilduff and Margaret and Martin Dolan. ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Advertorial –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Get your prints on great canvas at Keen Print You can get your images put on high-quality canvas at Keen Print, Golf Links Road, Roscommon town, which would make an ideal Christmas gift. Personalised Xmas stockings can also be purchased at their new online store – www.

keenprint.ie – along with Santa sacks, bottle bags, dressing gowns, baby blankets and much, much more. Also, in a special Christmas offer, Keen Print have quality Regatta workwear jackets available for sale for just €39.95

– down from €105. These are fully waterproof and breathable, and have a mesh-lined body. Along with the online store, you can ring in your orders at 090-6625787. The store is open from 9.30 am to 6 pm, from Monday to Friday.

Tomorrow night (Friday 27th) sees the launch Memories of the Snug, a DVD by local historian John Kerrigan (7 pm). This documentary, with a running time of just under an hour, takes in the interesting bric-a-brac on the shelves and a fond recollection of some group photographs while John sings some of the Harlow favourites from his childhood. Hopefully, this will be an enjoyable night for all, as it will provide an ideal opportunity for people to recall their own memories of Roscommon town from their childhood.

John Kerrigan

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople

Completed Civic HQ ‘a one-stop shop’ Roscommon County Council is pleased to announce the completion of the new Civic Headquarters at Áras an Chontae. The move from the existing offices, which are spread all over Roscommon town, will take approximately two weeks and commenced on Monday. All departments will be fully operational at Áran an Chontae with effect from Monday, December 7. In a press statement, the Council provided the following update. “Áras an Chontae is a state-of-the-art, purposebuilt headquarters, providing modern facilities for citizens and employees. “The building is located in a prime location between the Sacred Heart Church and the Garda Station, opposite the Teagasc offices and Roscommon Leisure Centre. “The new Civic Headquarters will be a convenient one-stop shop for council services, amalgam-

Comhairle Chontae Roscomáin ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL ----------------–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––-

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Transition of Roscommon County Council to new Civic Headquarters Roscommon County Council is pleased to announce the completion of the new Civic Headquarters at Áras an Chontae. The move from the existing offices, which are spread all over the town, will take approximately two weeks and will commence on Monday 23rd November 2015. These Civic Offices are for the people of County Roscommon, and by having all departments under the one roof will allow Roscommon County Council to provide services in a modern and effective way.

The keys to the new Civic Headquarters were handed to Roscommon County Council on Monday by Stewart’s Building Contractors. Pictured during the handover are Eugene Cummins (chief executive), Cllr. Paddy Kilduff (Cathaoirleach), Kieran O’Connor (contracts manager, Stewart’s) and Rachel Stewart (also of Stewart’s).

ating department that were spread over seven locations under the one roof. “The new facility also offers vastly improved accessibility features, more car parking, cost savings in relation to rent, energy and maintenance costs, and of course a new presence for Roscommon County Council.”

The chief executive of Roscommon County Council, Eugene Cummins, said: “These Civic Offices are for the people of County Roscommon, and by having all departments under the one roof will allow Roscommon County Council to provide services in a modern and

effective way.” Roscommon County Council also wishes to advise customers that there will be minor disruptions during the period of the move and ask for your co-operation and patience in this regard. The dedicated phone number for emergencies is (090) 6632500.

All departments will be fully operational at Áras an Chontae with effect from Monday 7th December 2015. There will be minor disruptions during the period of the move and we ask for your co-operation and patience in this regard. PLEASE NOTE: Phone lines and email will be unavailable from 3pm Friday 4th December until 9:30am Monday 7th December. The dedicated phone number for emergencies is (090) 6632500. We hope that all of you will get a chance to visit at some stage and we look forward to working for and with you, over the coming years as we start into a new era of service delivery for the people of Roscommon. Mr. Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

COMMERCIAL RANGE 152 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 2007 2006 2003 152 151 141G 131G 131 2012 2009 2008 2005 2004 152 151 151 141G 141 131 131 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 €21,500 + VAT VW Amarok 2.0TDI €32,500 + VAT VW Crafter LWB H Roof 3.5 TN €25,500+ VAT VW Caddy Van €12,600+ VAT VW Golf 1.6TDI VAN ( Extras) €16,000+ VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 102BHP LWB Blue €19,000+ VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB 84BHP €17,500+ VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 140BHP LWB €23,500+ VAT VW Crafter MWB DSL €24,500+ VAT GOLF VAN RANGE VW Golf 1.6TDI Van 110BHP €15,500+VAT VW Golf TDI Extras €5,500+ VAT VW Golf Van TDI A/T €6,000 + VAT VW Golf TDI Van €3,000 TOURAN RANGE VW Touran 7Seater €29,500 VW Touran 7 Seater TDI €28,500 VW Touran 7 Seater DSL €27,500 VW Touran 7 Seater DSL €24,500 VW Touran 7 Seater C/L A/T 140HP €26,500 VW Touran TDI 5Seater €21,500 VW Touran 7 Seater €10,500 VW Touran 7 Seater €9,500 VW Touran TDI 7 Seater €6,500 VW Touran TDI 7 Seater €5,000 TIGUAN RANGE VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Life & Leisure €28,500 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Sports €28,500 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Life & Leisure €26,500 VW Tiguan 2.0 TDI Extras Sports Model €26,500 VW Tiguan Life/Leisure €24,500 VW Tiguan 2.0DSL TRN €23,500 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Sports €25,500 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI €21,500 VW Tiguan 20TDI €18,500 TRANSPORTER RANGE VW Transporter 2.0 TDI 142 BHP SWB DD €21,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 102BH Trendline Pack €20,000 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €18,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI 140BHP D/D LWB €20,000 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €19,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI Kombi 140BHP 6 Seater €29,500 VW Transporter LWB 140BHP €22,500 VW Transporter SWB €16,950 VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB €18,500 VW Transporter LWB 180BHP 4 motion D/D €17,000 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB 140BHP €13,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €14,650 + VAT VW Transporter LWB 2.0 140BHP €14,000 + VAT VW Transporter 1.9TDI LWB €11,500 + VAT VW Transporter 1.9TDI SWB €12,500 VW Transporter 2.5 LWB €9,000 + VAT VW Transporter 2.5TDI SWB Extras €8,500 + VAT VW Transporter 2.5 TDI LWB Silver €10,000 + VAT VW Transporter 2.5TDI LWB 4 motion D/D €11,500+ VAT VW Transporter 1.9TDI SWB Extras €6,500+VAT VW Transporter 1.9TDI LWB €5,000 + VAT VW Transporter 1.9TDI €5,500 CADDY RANGE VW Caddy TDI Kombi 5 Seater Com €21,500 + VAT VW Caddy TDI €11,800 + VAT VW Caddy TDI Maxi €12,500 + VAT VW Caddy TDI €11,000 + VAT VW Caddy TDI €12,500

2013 132 2013 2012 2012 2011 2010 2009 2009 2008 2008 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 151 2015 2013 2009 2007 2006 2009 152 141 151 141 2013 132C 2012 2012 2012 2011 2010 2010 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 2007 2007 2007 2006 2005 2005 2005 2004 2012 2011 2009 2008 2007 2007 2007 2006 2006 2005 2005 2004 2003 2003

VW Caddy TDI Automatic €14,500 VW Caddy 1.6 TDI 7 Seater (Extras) €24,500 VW Caddy TDI €11,800 + VAT VW Caddy Maxi TDI Commercial €11,500 + VAT VW Caddy Van TDI €12,500 VW Caddy TDI €9,000 + VAT VW Caddy TDI €8,000 + VAT VW Caddy TDI €8,500 VW Caddy Maxi TDI Commercial €8,500 VW Caddy TDI €7,500 VW Caddy TDI Automatic €8,000 VW Caddy TDI Passenger 5 Seater €11,500 VW Caddy TDI €6,500 VW Caddy TDI €5,500 VW Caddy TDI €4,500 VW Caddy TDI €3,500 CRAFTER RANGE VW Crafter 3.0 DSL SWB €24,000+ VAT VW Crafter 3.5DSL H/R LWB €27,500 + VAT VW Crafter 3.5 DSL MWB H/R €18,500 + VAT VW Crafter LWB €9,500 + VAT VW Crafter MWB €6,000 + VAT TOUAREG RANGE VW Touareg 2.5TDI Passenger 5 Seater €7,500 VW Touareg 2.5TDI €10,000 + Vat MITSUBISHI RANGE Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2DSKL Com €25,000+ VAT Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 4WD Commercial €22,500 + VAT Mitsubishi Spacestar 1.2 5dr Extras €11,500 Mitsubishi ASX 1.8 DSL Van €19,900 + VAT Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2DSL Passenger A/T €30,000 Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater €22,500 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 SWB €24,950 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8DSL €15,500 Mitsubishi ASX 1.8 DSL Van €14,500 + VAT Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater €18,500 Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater Extras A/T €16,500 Mitsubishi Colt 1.5 (7K) CZC Coupe €9,500 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL Passenger €11,500 Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0TDI 7 Seater €11,500 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5 Petrol €6,950 Mitsubishi Pajero Sports LWB €9,500 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.3 €5,950 Mitsubishi Colt 5 Dr €5,000 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL Passenger €8,500 Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0DSL 7 Seater €8,500 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 Passenger 5 Seater €10,500 Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater DSL 4 x 4 €6,500 Mitsubishi Colt 1.5DSL Van €2,500 + VAT Mitsubishi Colt 5DR €4,500 Mitsubishi Grandis Petrol 7 Seater A/T €3,950 CITROEN RANGE Citroen Berlingo Van €10,500 Citroen Berlingo DSL Van €8,500 Citroen Berlingo DSL Van €6,950 Citroen Berlingo DSL Van €6,500 Citroen Berlingo DSL Van €5,000 Citroen C4 3 DR €4,500 Citroen Despatch 3 Seater €4,500 Citroen Berlingo DSL Van €4,500 Citroen C4 Van €4,500 Citroen Berlingo DSL Van €3,500 Citroen Despatch €4,000 Citroen Berlingo DSL Van €3,000 Citroen Berlingo €2,000 Citroen Multispace 1.4 Passenger €2,500

TRANSPORTER

MERCEDES RANGE 141 Mercedes Vito DSL Van €17,500 2010 Mercedes Vito DSL Van €10,500 2008 Mercedes Sprinter €8,500 TOYOTA RANGE 2012 Toyota Auris D4D €9,500+VAT 2007 Toyota RAV 4X4 €9,500 2005 Toyota Landcruiser LWB €8,950 1996 Toyota Corolla Van DSL €1,000 FORD RANGE 151 Ford Transit Custom €21,000 131 Ford Fiesta 1.5DSL Van €12,500 131 Ford Fiesta D4D 1.5DSL €13,500 2012 Ford Transit T260 €12,500 2012 Ford Transit 350 RWD €14,500 2011 Ford Transit DSL T260 €11,500 2010 Ford Transit Connect €7,500 2009 Ford Transit T260 €7,500 2008 Ford Galaxy DSL 7 Seater €11,500 2008 Ford Focus 1.6 DSL Van €6,500 2008 Ford S Max 7 Seater 1.8 DSL €10,500 2007 Ford Transit Connect DSL €5,000 2007 Ford Focus DSL Van €4,000+VAT 2006 Ford Transit Connect €3,500 2006 Ford Focus DSL Van €5,000 2005 Ford Transit Connect €4,000 2005 Ford transit T280 passenger DSL €7,500 2003 Ford Transit Connect T280 €3,000 2003 Ford Transit T260 €2,500 2002 Ford Transit Connect T280 €2,000 ISUZU RANGE 2000 Isuzu Trooper DSL LWB Black €2,500 1999 Isuzu Trooper 3.0 DSL €1,500 PEUGEOT RANGE 2012 Peugeot Partner DSL €11,000 2011 Peugeot Partner DSL Van €9,500 2010 Peugeot Partner 1.6HDI €8,500 2009 Peugeot Partner DSL Van Black €8,000 2007 Peugeot Partner DSL Van €4,500 2004 Peugeot Partner DSL Van €2,500 OPEL RANGE 2013 Opel Insignia DSL 136DSL Automatic Full Leather €24,500 2012 Opel Insignia 2.0DSL €13,500 2011 Opel Vivaro DSL €12,500 2007 Opel Vectra DSL €4,500 2006 Opel Vivaro DSL €4,500 2005 Opel Vivaro DSL Com €3,000 2005 Opel Combi DSL €3,000 2003 Opel Vivaro Combi 7 Seater DSL €3,950 1999 Opel Ontara €2,000 SUZUKI RANGE 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara 1.9DSL €6,000 2000 Suzuki Grand Vitara Dsl €2,000 2000 Suzuki Jimmy 1.3 Petrol €1,000 NISSAN RANGE 141 Nissan Duke 1.5DSL €19,500 141 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL €23,500 131 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL €19,500 2011 Nissan Primastar 1.9 DSL LWB Extras €11,500 2011 Nissan Note 1.5 Dsl van €6,500 + VAT 2011 Nissan Qashqai 1.5 DSL (38K) €16,500 2009 Nissan Qashqai 1.5 DSL €11,500 2008 Nissan Kubistar DSL Van €5,000 2008 Nissan Primastar LWB €7,500 2008 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL passenger €9,000 2008 Nissan Primastar SWB €6,500

2007 2007 2007 2006 2006 2005 2005 2003 141 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 2013 2009 2008 2005 2005 2004 2011 2007 2004 2000 152 151 131 2012 2012 2011 2011 2008 2007 2006 2001 2000

Nissan Primastar 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 Primastr 1.9DSL €4,500 Nissan Xtrail 2.2 DSL Passenger €5,000 Nissan Terrano 7 Seater DSL €4,500 HYUNDAI RANGE Hyundai i30 Van €13,500 + VAT 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 Com €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 €10,500 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) €14,500 Ssangyong Kyron DSL ( Choice) €5,000 Nissan XTrail 2.2DSL Passenger €3,500 Suburu Forester 2.0DSL €2,000 BUSES RANGE VW Shuttle 2.0TDI 9 Seater LWB €45,500 VW Caddy Maxi 7 Seater ( Extras) €28,500 VW Shuttle 9 Seater €33,500 VW Shuttle 9 Seater €29,500 Ford Galaxy 7 Seater Titian DSL A/T €25,950 VW Caravelle 7 Seater Comfortline Extras 2.0TDI 140BHP €30,000 VW Sharan TDI 140BHP 7 Seater €23,500 Ford Galaxy 7 Seater DSL €11,500 VW Shuttle 9 Seater 2.5TDI LWB Extras €16,500 VW Sharan TDI 130BHP 7 Seater €6,500 VW Caravelle 9 Seater €3,000 Ford Transit 15 Seater Bus €2,000

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

GENUINE USED CARS 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 142G 142 141 141 141 141 132 132 132 132 132 131 132 132 2013 2013 2012 2011 141 2012 152 151 151 151 142 142 141 141 141 132 131 131 131 131 132 2012 2012 2012 2011 2011 2010 2009 2009 2008 2008 2008 2007 2006 2006 2005 2004 151 142 141 2012 2011 2010 151 151 151 141 141 132 132 131 131 2012 2012 2012 2011 2011 2010 2010 2009 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 151 2012 2012 2011 2011

QUALITY USED VOLKSWAGEN VEHICLES PRE REG CARS VW Caddy Maxi TDI 7Seater Extras €28,500 VW Scirocco 2.0TDI 150BHP €29,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline Estate €31,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline €26,500 VW Jetta 2.0TDI €22,500 VW Golf 2.0TDI Highline 150BHP €29,500 VW Polo 1.4TDI €16,500 VW Polo 1.0 5DR petrol €14,500 VW Golf TDI €21,500 VW Golf 1.6TDI Van €15,500 + VAT VW Golf 1.6TDI Highline Extras €25,500 VW Polo 1.2TDI T/L €15,000 VW Golf Highline TDI Sports €22,500 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI €24,500 VW Golf 1.6 TDI Sports White €20,500 VW Touran 1.6 TDI 7 Seater €27,500 VW High UP 5Dr €12,950 VW Golf 1.6TDI A/T €21,500 VW Jetta C/L A/T €22,500 VW Jetta 1.6 TDI Highline €21,000 VW Jetta 1.6TDI Trendline €18,500 VW Golf 1.6TDI €19,500 VW Polo Cross TDI Extras €16,500 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €13,950 VW Passat 1.6TDI BM €22,500 VW Polo 1.2 TDI C/L €14,500 VW Touran 1.6TDI 5 Seater €22,500 VW Golf 2.0TDI 140BHP Highline €19,500 VW Tiguan 2.0DSL Passenger €18,500 BEETLE RANGE VW Beetle 1.6DSL €21,500 VW Beetle Sports Model 140BHp €19,500 PASSAT RANGE VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €28,500 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP H/L ( Choice) €28,500 VW Passat TDI Highline €28,500 VW Passat 1.6 TDI Comfortline €26,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline €24,500 VW Passat TDI Comfortline Estate €27,500 VW Passat 1.6 BM Choice €22,500 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP C/L €25,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline €23,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI “R” Line €22,500 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Comfortline €23,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline €22,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €21,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI BM (13K) €21,500 VW Passat TDI Highline €22,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L €18,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI T/L €17,500 VW Passat 2.0TDI Comfortline 140BHP €19,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L Choice €16,000 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Sports C/L €17,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline €13,500 VW Passat 1.9TDI C/L €11,500 VW Passat 2.0DSL C/L €11,500 VW Passat 1.6 C/L €6,500 VW Passat 2.0TDI C/L A/T €9,500 VW Passat 1.9TDI Highline €9,500 VW Passat 1.9TDI Choice €7,500 VW Passat 1.9TDI C/L Choice €6,500 VW Passat 1.6 €4,500 VW Passat 1.9TDI €5,000 VW Passat 1.9TDI €4,000 PASSAT CC RANGE VW Passat CC 2.0TDI €35,500 VW Passat CC 2.0TDI Sports (9K)A/T €35,000 VW Passat CC Extras €32,500 VW Passat CC Extras €22,500 VW Passat CC Extras €19,500 VW Passat CC Extras €18,500 POLO RANGE VW Polo 1.2TDI Cross Model €18,500 VW Polo 1.4TDI 5Dr €16,500 VW Polo 1.0 5 DR €14,500 VW Polo 1.2TDI Comfortline €16,500 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €14,950 VW Polo TDI (33K) €15,000 VW Polo 1.2 Petrol €13,500 VW Polo 1.2TDI €14,500 VW Polo 1.2 TDI Cross €16,500 VW Polo 1.2 5Dr Petrol €12,500 VW Polo TDI €13,500 VW Polo 1.2 Comfortline Petrol €12,950 VW Polo 1.2TDI €12,500 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €11,500 VW Polo 1.6 TDI €10,500 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €10,500 VW Polo 1.4TDI €9,000 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €8,500 VW Polo 5DR €7,500 VW Polo 1.4 TDI €7,000 VW Polo 5DR €5,500 VW Polo 1.2 5Dr €4,500 VW Polo 1.2 5DR €3,500 GOLF SV MODEL RANGE VW Golf TDI SV €24,500 VW Golf TDI Plus Comfortline A/T €18,500 VW Golf TDI Comfortline €17,500 VW Golf TDI Plus Comfortline A/T €17,500 VW Golf TDI Plus €15,000

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

VW Golf TDI Plus VW Golf TDI Plus Comfortline VW Golf TDI Plus Comfortline VW Golf TDI Plus GOLF RANGE VW Golf 1.6TDI C/L A/T Limestone Grey VW Golf TDI 5Dr Highline (White) VW Golf TDI 5DR T/L Sports VW Golf 2.0TDI 150BHP 6Sp Highline VW Golf TDI 5DR Highline Sports VW Golf 1.6TDI Comfortline VW Golf 1.6TDI Trendline VW Golf 1.6 TDI H/L A/T VW Golf 1.6TDI Automatic VW Golf 1.6TDI Highline Sports Pack 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 GTI 3Dr 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 (10K) 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 2.0 TDI 143 BHP Audi A3 1.9 TDI Audi A6 2.0DSL A/T Audi A4 2.0TDI 177BHP Quatro Audi A6 3.0TDI V6 Quatro ( Auto) Audi A3 1.6 5DR Audi A4 TDI Audi A4 TDI Audi A6 TDI Audi Quatro 2.5TDI A/T Audi A4TDI HONDA RANGE Honda Civic 1.4 AUTOMATIC RANGE VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline A/T VW Passat CC Extras Mitsubishi Pajero Exect 5 Seater €333 road tax VW Golf 1.6TDI C/L A/T Limestone Grey VW Golf SV 1.6TDI C/L A/T VW Polo 1.2TSI C/L A/T VW Polo TDI A/T 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 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2DSL A/T 7 Seater 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 Ford Galaxy 2.0TDI 7 Seater Titinium model VW Golf Plus TDI C/L VW Jetta 1.6TDI Comfortline (50K) Volvo S40 DSL Extras A/T Ford Galaxy 7 Seater DSL VW Jetta 1.9TDI C/L VW Passat 2.0TDI A/T Mitsubishi Colt 5DR Mercedes 1.8 CLK A/T VW Caravelle 9 Seater Highline LWB DSG Nissan Note Petrol A/T

€13,500 €11,500 €9,500 €7,500 €24,950 €25,500 €22,500 €25,950 €21,500 €21,500 €21,000 €24,500 €22,500 €22,500 €19,500 €21,500 €17,500 €19,500 €18,500 €16,500 €14,500 €13,500 €13,000 €11,500 €9,500 €11,500 €10,500 €8,500 €10,500 €7,500 €6,500 €9,500 €6,000 €6,000 €6,000 €4,500 €3,500 €2,500 €2,500 €22,500 €21,000 €21,000 €19,500 €19,500 €19,000 €22,500 €18,500 €15,000 €15,000 €13,500 €11,500 €8,500 €9,500 €7,500 €6,500 €5,000 €33,500 €16,500 €19,500 €12,500 €11,750 €12,500 €9,500 €6,500 €6,500 €6,000 €5,000 €5,000 €3,000 €3,000 €1,500 €32,500 €35,000 €35,000 + VAT €24,950 €28,500 €16,500 €19,000 €24,500 €13,950 €32,500 €27,500 €31,000 €19,500 €18,500 €21,000 €19,500 €18,500 €25,950 €16,500 €14,500 €13,500 €11,500 €8,000 €6,500 €6,000 €7,500 €15,000 €6,500

2005 2005 2004 2003 2002 1997 152 151 151 151 141 132 132 132 131 131 131 2012 2012 2011 2009 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2007 2006 2006 2006 2006 2005 2005 2004 2004 2004 2004 151 142 2011 2011 2009 2008 2007 2005 2002 131 2007 2006 2006 2005 2002 2002 131 131 131 2011 2008 2006 2009 2007 2002 131 2012 2012 2011 2009 2008 2008 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 2006 2006 2004 2015 2014 2013 2011 2011 2011 2011 2009 2008 2007 2007 2007 2007 2006 2006 2005 2005 2005

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 Mitsubishi Outlander 7 Seater VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater VW Caddy TDI Maxi 7 Seater extras Citroen Berlingo Multispace DSL 5 Seater Opel Zafari DSL 7Seater Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 DSl A/T 7 Seater VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 seater VW Touran 2.0TDI 7 seater C/L VW Caddy TDI Maxi 7 Seater extras Ford Galaxy 7 Seater TDI Titinium A/T VW Sharan 2.0TDI 7Seater 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 Ford S Max 7 seater TDI VW Sharan 1.9TDI 7 Seater Fiat Dobla 1.3 Dsl 6 Seater Opel Zafari Petrol 7Seater Peugeot 307 DSL 7 Seater VW Sharan 1.9TDI 7 Seater Ssangyong Rodeus DSL 7Seater VW Sharan 1.9TDI 7 Seater Mitsubishi Grandis 7 Seater Petrol A/T Ford Galaxy 7 Seater DSL Renault Scenic 1.4 VW Sharan 1.9TDI 7 Seater ESTATE CAR RANGE VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline Estate VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline DSL Estate VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline Extras Toyota Avensis 2.2DSL Estate VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BH Highline Opel Vectra DSL Estate A6 2.0DSL Estate VW Golf Estate VW Golf TDI Estate MERCEDES RANGE Mercedes Vito DSL Mercedes CLK Coupe 1.8 Mercedes C180 Silver Mercedes A180 DSL Mercedes 2.7DSL E Class A/T Mercedes E220 DSL A/T leather Mercedes C270 DSL A/T BMW RANGE BMW 320 Luxury DSL A/T leather BMW 116 2.0DSL 5DR Extras BMW 316 DSL ( White) (extras) BMW 320DSL BMW 520DSL Extras BMW 316i MAZDA RANGE Mazda 3 1.4 Petrol Mazda 6 2.0 Touring DSL Mazda Domino 1.5 A/T FORD RANGE Ford Focus DSL H/B Ford Galaxy 7 Seater TDI A/T Ford Mondeo 2.0DSL Extras Ford Mondeo DSL Ford Mondeo DSL Ford Focus DSL Ford Galaxy DSL 7 Seater Ford Mondeo Petrol Ford Fiesta 1.25 5 Dr Steel (25K) Ford S Max 7 Seater Ford Focus 1.6 DSL Choice Ford Mondeo 1.6SX Ford Focus 1.6DSL Ford Mondeo DSL Ford Fiesta 1.4 DSL Ford Focus Ghia 1.8DSL Sal NISSAN RANGE Nissan 1.2 SVE Nissan Juke 1.5 DSL Nissan Qashqui 1.5DSL Nissan Qashqui 1.5 DSL (38K) Nissan Micra 1.0 5Dr Nissan Note DSL 1.5 Van Nissan Tida 1.6DSL Nissan Qashqui 1.5 DSL Passenger Nissan Primera 1.6 Petrol Nissan Note 1.5DSL SVE Nissan Almera 1.5 Nissan Tida 1.5 DSL Nissan Note petrol A/T Nissan Almera Nissan Primera 1.6 Nissan Xtrail Passenger Nissan Almera Nissan Tino 1.8 MPV 5DR

€4,500 €5,000 €4,500 €3,500 €3,500 €1,350 €29,500 €28,500 €40,000 + VAT €31,000 €26,500 €27,500 €16,500 €19,500 €31,000 €24,500 €26,500 €22,500 €25,950 €23,500 €10,500 €10,500 €8,500 €9,500 €11,500 €11,500 €10,500 €6,500 €4,000 €6,500 €6,500 €7,500 €5,000 €6,000 €3,950 €4,500 €3,500 €5,000 €31,000 €27,500 €17,500 €13,500 €11,500 €6,500 €7,500 €6,500 €2,950 €15,000 €7,500 €6,500 €4,500 €5,500 €4,500 €3,500 €28,500 €22,500 €27,500 €18,500 €11,500 €6,500 €7,500 €7,500 €1,650 €18,500 €25,950 €15,000 €13,500 €8,500 €7,500 €11,500 €6,000 €7,500 €10,500 €6,500 €5,500 €6,500 €4,500 €4,500 €3,000 €18,500 €18,500 €19,500 €16,500 €9,500 €6,500+VAT €8,500 €11,500 €6,500 €6,500 €4,500 €5,950 €6,500 €3,000 €3,500 €4,500 €3,000 €3,000

1997

2007

Nissan Micra 1.0 5DR A/T €1,350 OPEL RANGE Opel Zafari 7 Seater DSL €19,500 Opel Insignia 2.0TDI A/T 160BHP Elite Model l Leather €23,500 Opel Corsa 5Dr €11,500 Opel Vivaro 2.0DSL Comm €11,500 Opel Insignia 2.0DSL Extras €13,500 Opel (Vauhall ) Corsa 1.4 Life --- (20K) €8,500 Opel Corsa 1.2 5Dr €6,000 Opel Vectra DSL €5,500 Opel Zafari 1.6 7Seater €6,500 Opel Vectra 1.6 €4,500 Opel Corsa 1.0 5DR €2,500 Opel Vectra 1.6 €2,000 Opel Signum 20DSL Estate €3,000 PEUGEOT RANGE Peugeot 3008 DSL Extras €16,500 Peugeot 207 DSL €11,000 Peugeot 407 1.6 HDI SR €8,000 Peugeot 207 5DR €6,500 Peugeot 307 1.6 5DR €6,500 Peugeot 407 1.6DSL €6,000 Peugeot 407 DSL €4,500 Peugeot 207 1.4 5Dr €4,500 Peugeot 307 1.6 5DR €6,000 Peugeot 206 5DR €5,000 Peugeot 407 1.6DSL €3,950 Peugeot 407 2.0 Petrol €1,500 RENAULT RANGE Renault Clio 1.2 Executive €13,500 Renault Clio 1.2 5Dr Dynamique (29K) €11,500 Renault Laguna Intaile3 2.0DSL 150BHP €16,500 Renault Laguna DSL €5,500 Renault Megane 1.4 petrol €4,950 Renault Laguna 1.9DSL €4,500 Renault Megane 1.5 DSL €3,500 SEAT RANGE Seat Ibiza 1.2 5DR €9,500 Seat Ibiza 1.2 5DR €7,500 Seat Altea 1.9TDI €4,500 Seat Ibiza 1.2 5DR €2,000 Seat Inca 1.9 DSL Van €2,500 Seat Toleda 1.9TDI €2,000 SKODA RANGE Skoda 1.2 Petrol Saloon Ambition €19,500 Skoda Rapid 1.6TDI €19,500 Skoda Yeti 2.0 TDI €24,000 Skoda Fabia 1.2 Ambition €15,500 Skoda Elegance 1.6TDI €24,000 Skoda Octavia 1.6TDI Elegance €22,500 Skoda Octavia 1.6TDI Extras €19,500 Skoda Yeti DSL €14,500 Skoda Superb 1.9TDI €12,500 Skoda Octavia 1.9TDI €8,500 Skoda Octavia 1.9TDI €5,000 Skoda 1.9 DSL €2,000 SUBARU RANGE Subaru Impresso 1.5 €5,950 Subaru 2.0 X5 Petrol €4,500 Subaru Forrester 1.2 5Dr €2,500 SUZUKI RANGE Suzuki Swift 1.3 5DR €8,500 TOYOTA RANGE Toyota Avensis 2.0TDI €21,000 Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL 30kms €18,500 Toyota Auris Van DSL €10,200 + VAT Toyota Yaris D4D €11,500 Toyota Corolla D4D €11,500 Toyota Yaris 1.0 5DR €8,500 Toyota Auris DSL 5dr €9,500 Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL €8,500 Toyota Yaris 1.0 5DR €6,000 Toyota Corolla 1.4 Saloon €7,500 Toyota Corolla D4D €7,500 Toyota Avensis 1.6 Petrol €5,000 Toyota Auris D4D €7,500 Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL €4,500 Toyota Yaris 1.0 5DR €4,500 Toyota Landcruiser LWB €8,500 Toyota Avensis 2.0D4D €3,950 Toyota Corolla 1.4 €4,500 Toyota Hiace €3,500 Toyota Avensis 2.0 D4D €3,000 VOLVO RANGE Volvo S40 2.0DSL A/T €13,500 Volvo S40 1.6 DSL €6,500 Volvo S40 1.8 €3,500 OTHER MAKES Lexus 2.0DSL €6,500

2012 2011 2006 2005 2004 2004 2008 1999 2009 2005 2005 2007 2005

SPECIAL OFFERS Toyota Avensis Dsl VW Passat Estate CL VW Golf 1.4 Plus VW Sharan 1.9 TDi 7 Seater Toyota Avensis Dsl VW Bora Dsl Ford Focus 1.4 5 Dr Ford Focus 1.6 5Dr Ford Mondeo 1.8 Dsl Zetec Hyundai accent Mercedes e270 Automatic Lexus IS 220 Dsl Opel Corsa

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

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€16,000 €11,500 €4,500 €4,500 €2,000 €3,500 €5,500 €1,000 €8,500 €3,000 €4,500 6,000 2,500

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople newsbriefs Cancer Care cheque Presentation in Dec’s There will be a cheque presentation to Roscommon Cancer Care Vita House following a fundraising event for this very worthy cause, which was held recently. This presentation is being held in Dec’s Bar, Castleplunkett this Friday night (27th November) at 9.30 pm. The Cancer Survivors Choir will sing on the night and everybody is welcome.

Clothes Collection in aid of SPCA We are looking for Men’s, Women’s and Children’s Clothing, including underwear, towels, curtains and bed linen, footwear in pairs, hats, caps, ties and scarves, soft toys, handbags, and belts. Also mobile phones, other household metals and metal ornaments – brass, lead and copper… etc. We need these items to help raise much-needed funds so we can continue helping animals in need, especially now that it’s getting cold out. Please call Sheila at 083-4455628 to arrange collection.

Cancer Care West Quiz in Ballymoe To support the necessary and vital services offered by Cancer Care West, there will be a fundraising table quiz in The Grove Lounge, Ballymoe on this Friday, 27th November, starting at 9.30 pm. Tables of 4 cost €40. Refreshments will be served with a raffle for numerous quality spot prizes.

Hospice tree-lighting ceremony soon! The tree-lighting ceremony for Let Love Shine appeal in aid of Mayo/Roscommon Hospice takes place on Sunday, 6th December at 5.45 pm in Knock. All are welcome to attend. Lights are available from pharmacies in Mayo and Roscommon, Hospice shops, Knock Shrine or by contacting 094-9388666.

Ladies Night in Kilglass Centre A very special ‘Ladies Night’ takes place in Kilglass GAA Centre on Friday 4th of December. This involves makeovers, cookery demonstrations, cake baking and icing, flower arranging and much more. Clothes by Magees of Boyle and Dunnes Stores. Hair by Funky Fringes; Make-up by: Lorraine McGlynn, Pamela Hoey and Brona Tarmey. Doors open at 7.30, with event starting at 8 pm sharp. Cheese and Wine Reception.Admission: €10. All proceeds to ‘Sick Children Fund.’

Carrick NS Fund-raising quiz Carrick National School Ballinlough Parents Association are holding a fund-raising quiz in Campbell’s Pub on Friday, 4th December at 9.30 pm. Come along for a fun night. Spot prizes on the night. All support appreciated.

Kilbride Foroige Youth Club We are proposing to start a Kilbride Foroige Youth Club. Registration Night will be Friday 27th of November from 8-9.30 pm in Derrane Community Centre. This is for Secondary School – 1st, 2nd and 3rd year students. If you need any more information, contact 087-6314295.

Ballyleague Village Renewal meeting In recent months Ballyleague Village Renewal and residents on the Roscommon Road have been liaising with Roscommon County Council concerning improvements to drainage and the entrance roadway and grass verge on the side of the main road going from Clonadra Hill into Ray’s filling station in Ballyleague Village. Ballyleague Village Renewal committee set up a sub-committee chaired by Gerry Trimble who intends to meet with and consult with all residents along the road and from the adjoining townlands. Gerry is now inviting concerned parties to attend a meeting in St. Faithleach’s clubhouse in Ballyleague on Monday, November 30th at 8.30 pm to discuss improvements that might be carried out for safety reasons and to enhance the approach roads. For more information email: keepballyleaguetidy@gmail.com.

Pop-up shop in Kenny’s, Ballintubber In the build-up to Christmas, Kenny’s Lounge, Ballintubber, will host a pop-up shop this Saturday (28th) starting at 8.30 pm. There will be gift items on the night as well as fashion for men and women, millinery, Christmas cake icing and cookery tips, floral displays and much more.

Last meeting held in Courthouse – but ﬁrst for new chief executive < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

There was something old and something new to proceedings in the council chamber in the Courthouse, Roscommon town, on Monday. It was the last council meeting to be held there before the move to the new Civic Headquarters. The keys to the new premises were formally handed over to Chief Executive Eugene Cummins and Cathaoirleach Cllr. Paddy Kilduff on Monday, and the premises will be fully operational on Monday, December 5. Removal lorries were parked outside the Courthouse during the day, confirmation that the move was underway. “I understand it’s at least 115 or 116 years of meetings in this

chamber,” Cllr. Kilduff told the meeting. “And I am proud indeed as Cathaoirleach to be chairing the very last meeting.” On the other hand, there was an air of freshness to the meeting: it was the first attended by Mr Cummins since he became chief executive on October 1. Addressing the meeting, he said that, during his seven-year contract, his main focus would very much be on economic and community development. “That will be my primary role and function,” he said, before outlining how he would be ringing the changes in the local authority. “That focus will require a major restructuring of the organisation, so that all of the resources – human and financial and physical – are restructured in a way that

meets the demands of that task, that challenge.” Mr Cummins said that the creation of jobs would be the centre of that focus. “We will have to fight to make sure that Roscommon within the region fights for the jobs because everything depends on jobs. Jobs create wealth, happiness, wellbeing and allows the population to grow,” he said. He welcomed the move to the Civic Headquarters. “It is an opportunity and a platform for Roscommon County Council to step forward into a new, modern era of service delivery to meet the demands of the younger population that requires a new means of communication,” he said. “It also requires a more effective

Chief Executive Eugene Cummins

and responsive reaction to their requirements. Because we will be under one roof, we will be able to do that.” Councillors warmly welcomed Mr Cummins to his new role, saying that he had impressed them in their initial contact.

Courts Service ‘have no money’ to buy Courthouse WE’RE A ONE-STOP SHOP: PAGE 17 < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The Courts Service are in discussions with Roscommon County Council about buying all of the Courthouse, Roscommon town, but the local authority said that they couldn’t afford to. The Council’s new Civic Headquarters, which cost €15 million, has now been completed and all departments are due to be fully operational from Monday, December 7. The Council has been leasing five buildings, at a cost of €314,000 per annum, for various departments and for storage space, but that will no longer be necessary. They will also move from the Courthouse – one of the county’s landmark buildings, built in 1832 – which they partly own. The rest is owned by the Courts Service, and the Council want them to purchase their section. A discussion on the subject took place at a meeting of the local authority’s management team on October 9, attended by Chief Executive Eugene Cummins, Head of Finance Martin Lydon and the Directors of Services. The minutes of the meeting, released under the Freedom of Information Act, noted: “It was hoped that Courts Services might buy the Courthouse. However, it does not seem feasible at the moment as they have no money.” It was agreed to “pursue the issue of the sale of the Courthouse with (the) Courts Service”. The Courts Service confirmed that such discussions were ongoing but said that, if a sale did not materialise, a new courthouse would be built. The spokesperson said: “The Courts Service occupies part of Roscommon Courthouse, the rest of it being occupied to date by the county council. “The courts accommodation in the building is not of the standard we would wish and it is proposed to improve court facilities in Roscommon town as funds become available. “If the local authority space in the courthouse building can be acquired at a reasonable cost, it would be possible to redevelop the existing courthouse to provide improved facilities.

The Courthouse, Roscommon town,

“The Courts Service is in discussions with Roscommon County Council about this. Alternatively a new courthouse on a new site would have to be provided.” At present, court sittings are held in the Courthouse, along with numerous council offices, while council meetings are held in the council chamber. Roscommon Court Office, mean-

while, is located on the Golf Links Road, just outside the town. At last month’s meeting of the management team, a discussion also took place about what the Motor Tax Office building on Abbey Street, Roscommon town, would be used for. This remains unclear: the minutes noted that the building was “not very accessible”.

Council to auction unwanted furniture Roscommon County Council are to hold an auction to dispose of unwanted furniture as a result of its move to the new Civic Headquarters. At a meeting of the

management team on October 9, it was agreed that “annex furniture would be sold by public auction”, and that a “public open day would be held in Civic HQ”.

The Civic Headquarters was completed on Monday and the Council are to due move there from rented buildings in Roscommon town by Monday, December 7.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople

TIERNEY’S Bar & Restaurant Ballygar, Co. Galway. • Tel: (090) 6624534

Food now being served

€28,000 PRESENTED TO HOSPICE… Members of the Ballaghaderreen Mayo/Roscommon Hospice Support Group present a cheque for €28,321 to Cynthia Clampett, CEO of Mayo/Roscommon Hospice recently. Photo: Mick McCormack.

• Lunches and evening meals • Bar food available All functions catered for

Mass for deceased members of BOM Roscommon Mart Roscommon Mart have organised a mass for the deceased members of Board of Management and Staff this Thursday evening in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 8 p.m

ABBEY HOTEL ROSCOMMON

Join us on Wednesday night next for LIVE MUSIC in our bar from 9pm. Music by BILLY GARVIN ALL WELCOME

COME EARLY AND ENJOY SOMETHING FROM OUR NEW WINTER BAR FOOD MENU Abbey Hotel - RAI Best Hotel Restaurant in County Roscommon 2014/15

GLENAMADDY CREDIT UNION are hosting a

Farm Planning Information Meeting in Glenamaddy Community Centre on Monday 30th November at 8pm Speakers from Teagasc, RBK Accountants, Solicitor and Financial Adviser will speak in relation to Grants, Farm Planning, Tax Planning and Succession Planning • Refreshments will be served • All are welcome

Call for Alzheimer’s unit to be provided in Roscommon < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Locals councillors have unanimously called on the Department of Health to provide a specialist Alzheimer’s unit in Co. Roscommon – after plans for Western Alzheimer’s Respite Centre in Tulsk fell through. The matter was discussed at length at Monday’s monthly meeting of Roscommon County Council, during which two members of Western Alzheimer’s – Noeleen Rudden, the services manager, and Deirdre Kelly, the assistant services manager – gave a presentation. Councillors were alarmed to hear of the prevalence of the disease locally. Ms. Kelly said: “The west of Ireland has the highest rate of dementia per head of population in the country and, out of that, Roscommon has the highest in the country, with 1.4 per cent diagnosed.” Fianna Fáil councillor Ivan Connaughton estimated that, based on those figures, there were 900 people with Alzheimer’s in the county. Ms. Rudden said that the charity provided a range of services to 70 families in the county, with minimal State support. “Financially, are we getting much support?”

– tel. 090 66 24534 or 087 2539761

HEALING BIO-ENERGY

O’DOHERTY & GRIFFIN CLINIC Held in Gleeson’s Townhouse, The Square, Roscommon Starting on Tuesday 1st December – Friday 4th December Plexus Bio-Energy treats all ilness, i.e. Asthma, Arthritis, Skin Problems, Depression and Back Problems, etc. FOR APPOINTMENT RING: Tel: (094) 95 40068 • Mob: (087) 2060781

IRELAND’S ONLY INSTITUTE OF BIO-ENERGY

Permanent Clinic in Claremorris TELEPHONE: (087) 2494022

Use the body’s natural bio energy ﬁelds Deirdre Kelly, the assistant services manager.

she said. “Not really. We get some support from the Department of Social Protection… “We get minimal support from the HSE, despite the fact that we get over half our referrals from them.” The Roscommon People recently reported that the charity’s plans to build the centre in Tulsk had been abandoned because of new health regulations and a funding shortfall – even though €100,000 had been raised to fund the project. This was raised by Sinn Féin councillor Michael Mulligan, who said that his mother suffered from Alzheimer’s prior to her death. “The sad thing about it is

that you never get better with it,” he said. “It just gets progressively worse.” Initially, he proposed that the council seek funding from the HSE to build the unit in Tulsk, where a site had been purchased. This was seconded by Fianna Fáil councillor John Keogh. However, Cllr. Eugene Murphy, also of Fianna Fáil, suggested a more general proposal – “call on the Department (of Health) to provide an Alzheimer’s unit in in Co. Roscommon because it has the highest rate of Alzheimer’s in the country”. This was agreed by members.

More and more people suffering from all kinds of ailments are turning to alternative forms of treatment, one of which is bio-energy. Bio-energy is the name given to the lifeforce energy within and around the human body. It cannot be seen by the naked eye but it can be photographed and measured using special equipment. Its existence is recognised by the World Health Organisation. Bio-energy healing involves the use of healing techniques that work by rebalancing this life force energy without actually touching the patient. If the flow of energy through the body becomes blocked, imbalanced or disturbed in any way, it has an automatic effect on the mental, emotional, spiritual and physical body. The body will not function normally and disease can set in. During a healing session a trained therapist will locate these disturbances using a series of hand movements through the energy field around the body. The blockages are then released. Treatment is carried out in half-hour sessions over four days at the end of which the patient’s energies will be balanced and the body can begin to return to full health. Bio-energy can treat many diseases and has also given people relief from asthma, arthritis, migraine, skin problems, depression, back problems sports injuries and so on. Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople newsbriefs Roscommon Cancert Support Centre Christmas Market A special Christmas Market in aid of Roscommon Cancer Support Centre (RCSC) takes place at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Sunday, 13th December from 1 pm to 5 pm. All of the sights, sounds and aromas of the festive season will be there. The market will provide an opportunity to sample and purchase locally produced artisan food, as well as being a showcase for local arts and crafts. This could well be the place to buy an unusual and special gift. No market would be complete for children without Santa, who will be making his own special appearance at his grotto. The event will finish with carols from the ‘Something to Sing About Choir’ which comprises of members of the RCSC. There will also be a raffle on the day with a range of super prizes. Admission is free for all, so support would be much appreciated. All proceeds will go to Roscommon Cancer Support Centre. Some exhibitor tables are still available at a cost of €25. Please contact Laura Mullooly at Vita House on 090 6625898 or info@ vitahouse.org.

Ardcarne Christmas Floristry Workshops Christmas Floristry Workshops will be held at Ardcarne Garden Centres in Boyle and Roscommon Town, which will show participants how to create Christmas wreaths or swags. The workshops will be held on Saturday 28th November and on Thursday 3rd December in Roscommon Town and Sunday, 6th December in Ardcarne Garden Centre, Boyle. Booking is essential, so please telephone: 07196 67091 (Boyle) and 09066 27700 (Roscommon Town).

Guess who’s coming to town… Santa to switch on Christmas lights on Sunday < PAUL HEALY

The official switching-on of the Christmas lights in Roscommon town will take place this Sunday evening. Special guest will be none other than Santa Claus, with the world’s premier celebrity having confirmed that he will be delighted to do the honours. Santa is due in Roscommon town at 5 pm on Sunday and huge crowds are expected to welcome him at The Square. Roscommon Chamber of Commerce have confirmed that complimentary hot drinks will be served from a number of outlets in Main Street and its environs. Chamber President Declan Molloy said it’s a thank you from local businesses and part of the organisation’s major Christmas 2015 initiative. This week the Chamber kicks off its Christmas campaign in the Roscommon People (see supplement, pages 25-40). Shops will be staying open until 8 pm on

Looking forward to meeting Santa on Sunday are Chamber activists Eddie Donnellan, Aidan Farrell and Shane Fleming, pictured at the launch of the Chamber’s Christmas campaign. Picture: Andrew Fox

Fridays and a number of premises’ will also open on Sundays. The Roscommon People, which is co-sponsoring a €1,000 Christmas

Athleague CCE session in Hamrock’s Bar

Kerrane slams housing policy

Athleague branch of CCE will hold their monthly session in Hamrock’s Bar, Athleague on Friday night, 27th of November, starting at 10 pm. All musicians, singers and storytellers are welcome to join us. A raffle with spot prizes will be held on the night. Come along and enjoy the ‘caint, ceol agus craic’. Our AGM will also take place on Friday night (27th) in Hamrock’s Lounge at 9.30 pm sharp. All members, and anyone interested in becoming a member, are requested to attend. We would especially like to have some new young members in the branch.

Console Celebration of Light in Coosan The Console Celebration of Light Service will be held this Sunday (29th) in the Queen of Peace Church, Coosan at 4 pm. This is an opportunity for family, friends and work colleagues to come together in solidarity to remember loved ones who have died by suicide. The evening will be a time for reflection with song, music and poetry. There will be lighting of candles, which will be marked by a minute’s silence. There will also be music performances from Simon Casey, Joe McCaul and The Roscommon Solstice Choir. All are welcome.

Lanesboro/Ballyleague Badminton Club Quiz It’s that time of year again at Lanesboro/Ballyleague Badminton Club, so dust off the quiz books and get ready for our table quiz. It promises to be a great night with lots of spot prizes, just in time for Christmas. Our quiz will be held on Saturday, 28th of November in Clarke’s Bar in Lanesboro at 9.30 pm, so get a team or two together and come on down and enjoy the night.

Roscommon Camogie Fashion Show The Roscommon County Camogie Board will host a Fashion Show in the Abbey Hotel on Thursday, 3rd December, commencing at 8 pm. There will be a drinks reception from 7 pm. A number of local shops will be involved on the night and your support would be much appreciated. Tickets are €15 and can be purchased from all clubs. It is also possible to pay on the door on the night.

Naughten obtains assurances on excessive bank charges Independent TD Denis Naughten has said that he obtained assurances from Finance Minister Michael Noonan that excessive bank charges for electronic charges for business, including marts and agribusiness, are to be addressed. Deputy Naughten, who has been pursuing this issue since the Budget day announcements, has been assured that excessive charges for the use of debit cards, particularly for large transactions, will be capped at a maximum of €1 per transaction from May 1 next.

Shopping Giveaway with the Chamber, is urging the public throughout County Roscommon and environs to shop locally this Christmas.

Cynthia Clampett with members of the Ballaghaderreen Mayo/Roscommon Support Group, Anne Towey, Kathleen Rushe, Noreen Dolan and Jo Connolly showing off this year’s Mayo/Roscommon Hospice Christmas Cards. Photo: Mick McCormack.

New group aims to stop ‘land-grab of south Roscommon’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A new group, called ‘Save Roscommon’, has been formed to strongly oppose what it believes is the Government’s plan to “annex a large part of south Roscommon and hand it over to Westmeath.” In June, Environment Minister Alan Kelly established a boundary commission to review the local government boundary in Athlone, with a view to it being governed solely by Roscommon or Westmeath county council. A three-man committee are considering the proposal and are due to have completed their report by March of next year. However, Save Roscommon said that they were convinced the report would demonstrate why Monksland, Bealnamullia and the Hodson Bay region should be under the control of Westmeath’s local authority. They said that this would see the Roscommon border moved and Monksland,

the second largest region in the county, taken away from it. Save Roscommon added that the population of south Roscommon would be “slashed by half, with some 7,000 people suddenly finding themselves in Co. Westmeath”. The spokesperson for the community group, Ger Aherne, said: “This area, cherry-picked by Government to hand over to Westmeath, includes Roscommon’s fastest growing town and industrial heartland. “Monksland and the surrounding area has been created and nurtured by tax-payers of Co. Roscommon for years and, now that benefits are being reaped, the Government wants to steal the fruits of our labour and starve the county and our children of future growth. “We do not want to see Monksland, Bealnamullia, parts of Kiltoom or anywhere else in the vicinity annexed by the Irish Government. “We want no partition in our county.”

Sinn Féin’s General Election candidate for Roscommon-Galway, Claire Kerrane, right, has said that the housing policy, or lack thereof, of Fine Gael and Labour has been exposed yet again by a new report. She said that a major European report into housing exclusion has found that, after Greece, Ireland had the highest rate of rent and mortgage arrears in Europe, standing at 20.2 per cent. Ms. Kerrane said: “This new report from the European housing organisation, Feantsa, is yet another shocking indictment of this Government’s housing policy. “There has been a collective failure by this Government in all aspects of housing and new information and studies are highlighting that failure for everyone to see. “The report goes on to highlight that of the 28 EU nations, Ireland is also the second worst for poor tenants paying out more for accommodation than those taking home above the average income, with 49.2 per cent of poor households paying out more. “This report comes on the back of data released recently by Daft.ie which showed that rents have risen faster in 2015 that at any time since the boom –in September alone, the rise across the State has been 3.2 per cent. “Such reports and data are concrete evidence of the crippling housing policy of this Government. Fine Gael and Labour should be ashamed of their housing policy. However, it would appear that they are incapable of shame.”

Fitzmaurice calls on people to ‘shop local’ Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has called on people to ‘shop local’ in the run-up to Christmas. He said: “It is now more important than ever that we support local businesses and local jobs, and there is just as much value to be got in local towns and villages as there is in the bigger centres when one looks around. “There are many local business, community organisations and chambers of commerce who are organising special shopping weeks and incentives in the run-up to Christmas. They are all doing a great job to promote the local economy.” Deputy Fitzmaurice said that he hoped that the Christmas season offers a badly-needed boost to local businesses and that it can be the start of better things ahead in 2016.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople

Doherty and Hopkins clash over rural crime Kilduff attempts to restore order < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A massive row broke out between Fianna Fáil councillor Rachel Doherty and Fine Gael councillor Maura Hopkins over rural crime at Monday’s monthly meeting of Roscommon County Council. The north Roscommon rivals debated the issue strongly – Cllr. Doherty denouncing the Government’s actions on the matter, a viewpoint that was strongly rejected by Cllr. Hopkins. Firstly, Cllr. Doherty said that recent measures announced by the Government to tackle rural crime were “too little, too late”. She said: “When you consider that people were frightened in Roscommon three or four years ago, I can only imagine how they are feeling today, with the increase in burglary, crime and anti-social behaviour in our towns and villages. “Also, the fact that it is now common knowl-

edge that our national primary routes are being used by nothing other than criminals and thugs who are coming down to the country to rob elderly people in their homes… “And this has all happened against the backdrop of 139 rural Garda stations being closed.” Cllr. Doherty was speaking as a new document in relation to elderly people – County Roscommon Age-Friendly County Strategy – was being discussed. “I think this document speaks volumes for the absolute failure to protect local people,” she said. She said that people were now relying on community alert and neighbourhood watch schemes as replacement for Garda stations. In light of the recent massacre in Paris, there has been some debate above the likelihood of such an attack occurring in Ireland. Cllr. Doherty said: “The current Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald, wouldn’t be prepared for any kind of a military attack in this country. How would she? She is not able to deal with criminals in the country as it stands.” In response, Cllr. Hopkins said that there were challenges in relation to rural crime, but that the Government were tackling the

problem. She said: “The most important aspect is that there are more gardaí in our communities now, and Templemore Garda College has opened following the last Government’s closure of it in 2011.” Cllr. Doherty attempted to interrupt, but Cllr. Paddy Kilduff, the Cathaoirleach, demanded that Cllr. Hopkins be allowed to continue. “It is very important that we have extra gardaí in our communities and that is what this Government is committed to doing,” she resumed. “As evidence of that, we have 400 extra gardaí within our communities and there are plans to ensure that Templemore Garda College remains open. “There are increased resources coming on stream, with the improving economy that we have.” The exchange between the two Boyle Municipal District councillors intensified when Cllr. Doherty noted that her rival’s contribution had lasted far longer than the allotted time (three minutes). She said that she was “fed up listening to this election blather going on for nearly five minutes”.

The recruitment of paediatric nurses to fill new posts in the emergency department (ED) at Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, has been warmly welcomed by local TD Denis Naughten, left, The HSE recently confirmed to Deputy Naughten that one paediatric nurse has now taken up a position in emergency department (ED) at the hospital, with a further three paediatric nurses set to take up posts. “This is in addition to the recruitment of an additional general staff nurse for A&E,” he said. “The recruitment of these additional posts for what is a very busy emergency department is extremely welcome. “Once these posts are all in place, I understand it is the intention of the hospital to have a paediatric nurse on duty in A&E at all times to assess children attending and to liaise with their families.”

‘Heads up’ – The First Sunday of Advent

– Dr. Scott Hahn, www.salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Parish Office/Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon)

Renua Ireland General Election candidate Anne Farrell, right, has sharply criticised the Health Service Executive over its criticism of striking nurses. On Tuesday, the Irish Nurses’ and Midwives’ Organisation (INMO) said that 92 per cent of its members had voted to go on strike on December 15. The planned one-day stoppage is over staff resourcing and other measures the union wanted addressed in emergency departments. Ms Farrell, who will contest the election in Roscommon-Galway, said that the ballot represented “a damning critique of the failed policies” of the HSE, Health Minister Leo Varadkar and his predecessor, James Reilly. She added: “It is important to note this is not a strike for more pay. It is instead a strike led by the understandable desire for basic, decent and safe working facilities for nurses and the patients they care for so diligently. “The decision represents a serious indictment of the overcrowding and inadequate resources which has been the real story of this administration’s term in government. “The motive behind this strike means that the attempts by anonymous ‘health officials’ to accuse the INMO of engaging in ‘spin’ and that the timing of this strike is questionable, is morally reprehensible. “Their policy of continuous attack on our nurses and midwives is bringing the HSE and the Department of Health into even more disrepute, were that possible, and they should be ashamed of themselves.” Ms Farrell said that it was time the HSE, the Department of Health and Minister Varadkar provided “proper solutions to this very real crisis instead of hiding behind their clouds of spin”.

New paediatric nursing posts at Portiuncula ED

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Every Advent, the Liturgy of the Word gives our sense of time a reorientation. There’s a deliberate tension in the next four weeks’ readings – between promise and fulfillment, expectation and deliverance, between looking forward and looking back. In today’s First Reading, the prophet Jeremiah focuses our gaze on the promise God made to David, some 1,000 years before Christ. God says through the prophet that He will fulfill this promise by raising up a “just shoot,” a righteous offspring of David, who will rule Israel in justice (see 2 Samuel 7:16; Jeremiah 33:17; Psalm 89:4-5; 27-38). Today’s Psalm, too, sounds the theme of Israel’s ancient expectation: “Guide me in Your truth and teach Me. For You are God my Savior and for You I will wait all day.” We look back on Israel’s desire and anticipation knowing that God has already made good on those promises by sending His only Son into the world. Jesus is the “just shoot,” the God and Savior for Whom Israel was waiting. Knowing that He is a God who keeps His promises lends grave urgency to the words of Jesus in today’s Gospel. Urging us to keep watch for His return in glory, He draws on Old Testament images of chaos and instability – turmoil in the heavens (see Isaiah 13:11,13;Ezekiel 32:7-8; Joel 2:10); roaring seas (see Isaiah 5:30; 17:12); distress among the nations (see Isaiah 8:22/14:25) and terrified people (see Isaiah 13:6-11). He evokes the prophet Daniel’s image of the Son of Man coming on a cloud of glory to describe His return as a “theophany,” a manifestation of God (see Daniel 7:13-14). Many will cower and be literally scared to death. But Jesus says we should greet the end-times with heads raised high, confident that God keeps His promises, that our “redemption is at hand,” that ‘the kingdom of God is near” (see Luke 21:31)

Farrell slams HSE over nurses’ strike

Senator John Kelly with Education Minister Jan O’Sullivan at the recent launch of the Government’s new Schools Building Project.

Roscommon Folklore & Oral History Network Open Evening Collection of folklore and oral history has long been recognised as an important and valuable task which makes a huge contribution to documenting our cultural heritage. For the past ten years the members of County Roscommon Folklore and Oral History Network have been busy carrying out interviews with people all around the county and recording the stories of life through their eyes and in their own words. Their collection of interviews is available for all through the Roscommon Media Archive which is on computers in libraries around the county. This is the most significant collection of folklore and oral history in the county since the Schools Folklore Collection

which was carried out in the 1930s. The members of County Roscommon Folklore and Oral History Network operate to an agreed standard in how they go about collecting, recording and transcribing the folklore and oral history of the county. County Roscommon Folklore and Oral History Network would love to welcome new members and if you would like to find out more, please come along to our open evening which takes place in the Seminar Room, County Library, Roscommon from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm on Tuesday, 1st December. If you have queries about this please contact Nollaig Feeney, Heritage Officer, Roscommon County Council: nfeeney@ roscommoncoco.ie 087-9078860.

Hopkins to raise concerns over farming scheme Cllr. Maura Hopkins has said that while she is delighted that GLAS 11 is proving to be extremely popular among farmers in this region, indications are that the total number of GLAS 11 applicants will be above projections. Cllr. Hopkins expressed concern about the high number of applicants to the scheme. “I am concerned about how these farmers will be accommodated if the numbers go above 10,000 applicants,” she said. “I have communicated my concern to Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney and have asked him to do everything possible to secure the funding necessary to accommodate as many GLAS 11 applicants as possible. “This is an excellent scheme directing financial aid to actions that incentivise protection of the environment. “The deadline for new applications is December 7. “I am delighted that over 24,000 GLAS 1 applicants have received approval letters. “Minister Coveney has confirmed that payments to theses farmers are due to take place in the coming weeks. These payments will be a part-payment for October, November and December.”

Interview

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Enda Oates

‘Winning the IFTA was great ... Chris O’Dowd has won enough awards!’ < SEAMUS DUKE

nda Oates is now one of the most accomplished actors in the country, across a range of disciplines. Whether it’s the theatre, film or television, Enda is equally at home, and his talent ensures that he is working all the time. Enda (53) is probably best known for his part as Pete in ‘Fair City’, but he is appearing in a number of productions on the stage and on TV in the coming months. Just a couple of weeks ago Enda won the IFTA (Irish Film and Television Award) in the best male actor category, defeating the likes of Chris O’Dowd to win the prestigious award. Indeed Enda is currently sporting a heavy moustache which he has grown to play the part of James Connolly in a major TG4 series about 1916 which is currently being made. It’s a role that he is really looking forward to playing. The man from Creevy just outside Roscommon Town was back on home soil recently to launch Ciaran Mullooly’s book at Roscommon County Library. Enda is married to Louise and they have one son, Sam, and live in Dublin. We chatted about his life and times, Fair City, returning to Roscommon, and some very exciting work that he has coming up. Enda Oates wasn’t always into acting. In fact when he was in school in Roscommon he didn’t show much interest in it at all but when he went to Athlone RTC (now Athlone IT) his interest began – and grew quickly. “I got involved in the Drama Society there and I liked it from the start. After that I went to Dublin and my interest really started there. “I was working in the civil service and Eamon Tighe, who was in a flat with me, suggested one day that we might go off and do a bit of drama because we were bored during the long winter nights. “Eamon found some group and we got started and then after a while I got a bit of a gra for it and I went off at the weekends then to an Acting School run by Chris O’Neill. Chris is the dad of Aisling O’Neill, who plays Carol in Fair City. “There were great tutors in it like Alan Stanford …and it was held in the Oscar Theatre in Serpentine Avenue. I went there at weekends. Then I started doing a few fringe shows. After that I got an Evening Herald Acting Award which was a big boost. So I took a career break from the civil service to give it a go full-time.” It was mostly theatre stuff at the start for Enda and he enjoyed learning his craft in that environment. “I started working for a lot of independent companies – doing fringe shows – that’s where you get known. I turned professional in 1986 and I was doing a play called ‘The Silver Dollar Boys’, which was a brilliant play and one I’d love to do again. But there was a new artistic director in the Abbey Theatre and I got a contract in the Abbey for a year. Then I was on and off in the Abbey and then I got offered some TV work.” Enda says that he enjoyed the TV work and that it is a totally different discipline than working on the stage. But he had a less than successful start to his TV career!

“I was doing a play called ‘Studs’ and Paul Cusack, who is a producer in RTE, came to see it and he had an idea for a show, an urban series, and we shot a half-hour pilot. That was my first work on camera and I have to say it was awful. That show was cancelled, needless to say, but a year later Fair City started. “I got a bit of work in 1989 in ‘Glenroe’, which was huge at that stage. But there was a small pool of actors available for work and if you got well-known then there was work available. “I would hate to be starting out now because there are so many more young actors in competition for the work. “We were not making too much money at that stage but you were surviving, and there was always work. But TV was a totally different discipline and I have to say I love film, stage and TV equally and I would never like to stay too long in either. “It is great to have variety. TV is so much more technical and you have to make sure you are not over-playing or under-playing, whereas on the stage the audience reaction is immediate. But I am well trained in the various disciplines now, which is great.” Enda says that he really enjoys working in the film industry and he has done a lot of work in latter years in film. “I have worked on a lot of films over the years. I have just finished one called ‘Brother’ or ‘Bouer’ which is an Irish/ Belgian co-production and I got to work with some fantastic actors on that. It was shot mainly in West Cork. I really enjoyed that. “The things about working on film is that you get to work with different people all the time, whereas in the theatre you are working with the same people all the time and from my point of view it is nice to go off and work on something new.” Enda is now an established main character in Fair City, which draws huge audiences four times a week on RTE 1. He says that it is a superb show to work on. “I started in Fair City in 2009 and originally it was only for a few weeks but I came back in February 2010 and I’m there since. I really love it. It is a very flexible show to work on. I work a few weeks at a time and then you have a number of weeks off when you can go off and do other stuff, which is great for me. But I can tell you that if you are in a main storyline, it is very tough work on Fair City. You are in at 7.15 am in the morning and we would seldom get finished before 8 pm at night – and we are going all day. “You have to revise and learn when you get home and the weekends are gone too when you are in a main storyline. The reality is that they are putting out the equivalent of a film every week, four half-hour episodes, which is huge. I have to say that I love it though.” The recent IFTA award was a huge thing for Enda and he is very proud to have won it against such fierce opposition. “Well I have to say that I couldn’t believe it when I heard I won the IFTA. It was such a thrill and against such stiff opposition as well. Chris O’Dowd was nominated too, which meant there were two Rossies nominated in the male actor category.

“I haven’t been talking to him since and I hope he is alright with me winning! He has enough awards won anyway. Maybe what I have done over the years was a factor in that win too.” The future is exciting for Enda. He is currently sporting a large moustache which he has grown in preparation for a major role he is playing in a series on the 1916 Rising on TG4. “I am playing the role of James Connolly on a major TG4 threepart series on 1916. I am really looking forward to that role I have to say. The sets were built in Galway and we will be shooting there very soon. “I’d love to do more film. I would be less pushed about the theatre unless I can land a few major roles, to be honest. But Fair City is great. It keeps the name out there and it doesn’t really pigeon-hole you into a role either which is very important.” Enda now lives in Dublin but he likes to return to his roots in Roscommon every so often.

Roscommon’s Enda Oates is now one of the most accomplished actors in the country. Picture: Andrew Fox.

“I have not got down to Roscommon as much as I would have liked this year because we moved house in Dublin. I have to say I like living in Dublin. It’s a good town and it is a small city really and easy to get around. “I am delighted to be in Roscommon to launch Ciaran Mullooly’s book. He is a mighty man for the local community and I was delighted to come when I was asked. “Look, life is good I have to say and I have no complaints. I’m living with my wife Louise who is from Kilkenny and son Sam and we also go down to Kilkenny to Thomastown where her family are and that’s usually good craic too. “But I love coming to Roscommon. It’s a great town and I have plenty of family and great friends here.”

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

LIGHTS, CHAMBER, ACTION!

Let’s all work together and keep Roscommon in business!

Caitlín McConn, Shane Fleming, Mary Gleeson, Eddie Donnellan, Rita Oates and Aidan Farrell were pictured at the launch of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce’s Christmas Campaign. Chamber President Declan Molloy (interviewed inside) was unavoidably absent. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon Chamber launches Action Plan for Christmas Shopping Season • Late opening hours • Sunday Shopping

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

TEN €100 VOUCHERS

to be won by ten lucky readers!

In association with Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and the Roscommon People Roscommon Chamber & Roscommon People

VOUCHER COMPETITION ENTRY FORM Answers to competition (Find the Roscommon Crest)

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The ‘Christmas 2015 in Roscommon’ promotion will be published in the Roscommon People between now and Christmas. Each week we will ‘hide’ the Roscommon crest in two of the advertisements published in this feature.

Find the Roscommon crest… To be in with a chance of winning a €100 voucher, readers must name all eight advertisements in which the Roscommon crest is ‘hidden’ during the course of this four-week campaign. (Only submit entries after Week Four of campaign, to be published in Roscommon People dated December 18, 2015). Entries to ‘Roscommon Chamber Voucher Competition’ by 4pm on Saturday, December 19, 2015. Each entry to include all eight answers, name and address of entrant and a contact telephone number. Entries by post or by hand to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon; by email to advertising@roscommonpeople.i advertising@roscommonpeople.ie e Ten winners will be selected. Each winner will receive a €100 voucher. Vouchers will be redeemable at any Chamber of Commerce business in Roscommon town. *Vouchers redeemable at any Roscommon town Chamber of Commerce business

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

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From the editor

It’s a small world…

he Roscommon People

is a good example of a small local business. Established in 2007, we’re locally-owned, provide employment locally and seek, at every turn, to support the local community. We do not belong to a big media group; we are independent. We feel we can identify with every single small business in County Roscommon and the region, businesses which, like our own, have found the past seven years or so very testing indeed. Thankfully, there are clear signs of at least a gradual improve-

ment in the economy. The coming weeks will be incredibly important for the welfare – in some cases, perhaps for the very survival – of small businesses throughout the region. Prospering local businesses can lead to retention and creation of jobs, infuse our towns and villages with new hope, help stem emigration and revive our communities. It is an opportune time to once again emphasise the importance of people adopting a ‘shop local’ approach. In the coming weeks, the Roscommon People will

be campaigning for our 80,000 readers to do precisely that; shop locally. This week, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce launches a Christmas Promotion in conjunction with the Roscommon People. The promotion will continue between now and Christmas, with full details each week in the Roscommon People. We are proud to support the good work of the Chamber, just as we will promote and support small businesses throughout County Roscommon and the region this Christmas – and in the future.

We thank our readers and advertisers for their tremendous support of the Roscommon People. And, as a locally-owned newspaper which is immersed in the local community, our message is simple… …this Christmas, let’s keep our towns and villages in business – by keeping our business in our towns and villages. Paul Healy, Editor, Roscommon People

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or the inside two weeks the convention to hold one CDC are going Galway – have of the Roscommon- Hotel, Roscommon-Galway Clifthe Abbey at a special meeting ourselves.” of the CDC, Mary Ceantair held in night. to Comhairle Dáil The honorary secretary letter was sent on Tuesday at rmed that the Roscommon town, their anger and annoyance morning. See ford, has con party member, party headquarters on Wednesday “People expressed being held,” one a convention not be named, said. page 5. who asked not to d letter has gone to Dublin “A sternly-worde

Pictured in rehearsals for ‘Canaries’ – to be staged in Roscommon Arts Centre later this month – are Roscommon Drama Group members Alex McCurley, Mary Cox and Joanne Hone. See page 25. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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A town less ordinary TownTalk < PAUL HEALY

The Roscommon People Editor thinks some of us are blind to the beauty and charm of our county town, while smitten visitors are seeing it all so differently…

t’s like we’re living inside a secret. But we’ve been keeping the secret from ourselves; we’ve been buying into the secret. Others see it all differently. ‘Outsiders’ – people who pass through Roscommon and tourists who stay a while – they see it all so clearly. A couple of years ago I welcomed a cousin of mine who was born and bred in England. He had some mates with him. Londoners, bright men who are doing well in their careers. They stayed in Gleeson’s and

raved about the complimentary scones served to them on arrival. It was a great start to their weekend in Roscommon; they were immediately charmed by the warmth of the welcome in Gleeson’s. We – the locals – are so often guilty of taking our town for granted. Next, the English visitors discovered the Central Bar. They loved the Guinness there. On their second night in town, they ventured into JJ’s. They loved both pubs. The décor, the buzz,

the music. The Londoners got a kick out of the fact that there was a new pub to explore every few steps along the street. It rained when we showed them Roscommon Castle, but they enjoyed that too, and they were fascinated by Shane Curran and everyone else involved in the club game they attended in the Hyde. I had wondered what the Londoners would make of small, rural Roscommon town. They saw things that we perhaps turn a blind eye to most weekends.

Paul Healy (second from right) can pretend to be an expert guide to the intricacies of the game, confident that he won’t be contradicted.

Three Englishmen are introduced to Hyde Park and gaelic football.

They loved it. And they are not alone. Last summer, venturing into Main Street from time to time, I detected a real buzz in the heart of Roscommon, in that area where the men dish out the heads of cabbage from the back of a van. The buzz was in part created by tourists. And the feedback from them was extremely positive. Just the other day, David Molloy, one of our proud community stalwarts, told me of a conversation he had recently with a visiting English couple who were astonished at how clean and tidy Roscommon is. This is a town less ordinary. We often take it for granted; we are shareholders in the secret. We ought to release the truth. This is no ordinary town. There are towns not that far from Roscommon, in the Midlands and West, which have been beset by different problems. Crime, anti-social behaviour,

drugs, vandalism…abandoned buildings, collapsed morale. Our town has its imperfections, but it is a small treasure. Crime is still virtually a stranger here. In appearance, the town compares very well with others. We’re prone to not fully appreciating the range of services and amenities here. The Golf Club. Hyde Park. The Racecourse. The Park. The Castle. The hotels and restaurants. The shops. The bars. The buildings. The gyms. The schools. The Churches. The people. From chatting to visitors in recent years, I find absolute agreement on Roscommon town’s greatest asset. It’s the people, and the welcome they give. I really believe we don’t fully appreciate how much greater than ordinary Roscommon town actually is. Just now, probably the biggest problem the town is grappling with is the ongoing flight of its young. Another problem is that so

many of the rest of us don’t seem to appreciate how great this place is. It’s no fun living inside a secret. We need to open our eyes to what we have and where we are. We need to listen to the approving, frequently enthusiastic reviews of the visitors who, bit by bit, year by year, are discovering the quality of life, the charm and the beauty of Roscommon. Early on a Monday morning, the lads from London got a taxi back to the airport in Knock. When they were saying their goodbyes, they sang the praises of the things we seldom see. And when they come back to Roscommon, as they will, they want a traditional Irish music session to be fitted into their itinerary. We can arrange that. In the meantime, from chatting to Irish people and visitors from abroad, I’ve developed an ever-expanding sense of pride in Roscommon, truly a town less ordinary.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

Christmas…with the Chamber Sunday, November 29 5 pm, The Square: Switching-on of the Christmas lights by Santa Claus Free hot drinks will be served from various outlets …and throughout Christmas Watch out for entertainment by local choirs Friday, December 18 Shannonside Radio outside broadcast at The Square Also… Christmas Market Piped music in the streets Visit by Santa Shops open late on Fridays

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

Five festive minutes with ... Senan Kilbride < DAN DOONER Earlier this week, the Roscommon People caught up with Roscommon football star, Senan Kilbride, to put some all-important Christmas-related questions to him…

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Senan, if you were to have a fantasy Christmas Dinner and could invite anyone, who would be there? Ah, well it would have to be Neil deGrasse Tyson, John Stewart and Brian O’Driscoll. Knowledge, craic and stories galore!

Best Christmas present you’ve ever received? Not overly-fussed about presents to be honest, but going back a few years probably the Playstation 2. Better off without it though!

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Brussels sprouts… delicious or disaster? Sprouts, the way my mother does them, are delicious.

Favourite Christmas tune? (Laughs) Mariah Carey – All I want for Christmas. Always brightens the mood!

What are you asking Santa for this year? Tough one. Maybe a new watch? The one I have has seen better days!

Five festive minutes with …Orla Ní Chuinneagáin < DAN DOONER As part of our all-important Christmas interviews we decided we needed to brush up on our Gaeilge, so we went along to Gaelscoil de hÍde to chat to principal, Orla Ní Chuinneagáin… What’s your favourite festive song or carol? Oh Holy Night!

What’s the best or worst Cracker Joke you’ve ever heard? Why does Santa like to work in the garden? He likes to hoe, hoe, hoe!

What’s the best Christmas present you’ve ever received? Getting married, Christmas 2007.

Sprouts – delicious or disaster? Delicious and very nutritious!

In a Christmas fantasyland – who would be the famous ﬁgures, past and present, at your dinner table and why? Joanne O’Riordan, an outstanding young lady born without limbs. She highlights the ability of all citizens regardless of their disability and has a very positive outlook on life. Also, Mary Robinson, first female President of Ireland. She has inspired women all over the globe and I would enjoy talking to her about human rights. I’d also invite Bono because I would like to hear his views on making the world a better place. Paddington would also

have to be there as he always says things as he sees them and is bound to bring fun to the occasion! I’d like to have Mario Rosenstock there as he would impersonate a vast array of people and would bring a great mix to the table. And of course Santa because I feel that he would have a lot of interesting stories to tell after his ad-

ventures travelling around the world in one night. Who knows he may have some presents left too!

If you could receive just one gift this year what would it be? Snow. A white Christmas 2015 would be perfect!

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

‘The bigger and stronger we are, the better voice we have’ Our quick guide to the Chamber of Commerce… So, what exactly is Roscommon Chamber of Commerce? It’s a long-established business organisation which helps the local community and promotes Roscommon town.

When do you meet? Generally about once a month; depending on what’s on. And we try to keep meetings to an hour if we can! Lately we’ve started holding meetings at 6.30 pm on Mondays and the response has been good.

How many members are there? Approximately 75. There’s strength in numbers; the bigger and stronger we are, the better voice we have.

Can anyone join, and how do they go about it? Well, you need to be a business owner – big or small – and new members are very welcome. We ‘cover’ Roscommon town, but

also about a 10-mile radius. Anyone interested in joining can contact Declan Molloy (President) on 087-2526199 or Caitlín McConn (Secretary) on 086-0859275.

Speciﬁcally what does the Chamber do? Well this year, as an example, we set up a sub-committee, ‘Grá Ros’, which was responsible for erecting flower boxes in the town. We also launched a website and facebook page. We held an Infor-

mation Seminar on national employment rights. A sub-committee of the Chamber organises the annual Easter Parade and we help out with the Lamb Festival and other events. We are frequently meeting with the County Council (executive and councillors) and with the relevant Government departments and state agencies. Much of our focus there is on trying to attract jobs to Roscommon, or lobbying on commercial rates, or on the retention of the free parking in the town. Promoting Roscommon is what we’re about.

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

ROSCOMMONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S RECOVERY: < PAUL HEALY

The Square on n Farrell and Rita Oates pictured at , Shane Fleming, Mary Gleeson, Aida ellan Donn e Eddi onn, McC Ăn Caitl Chamber of Commerce members Chamber President Declan Molloy). Picture: Andrew Fox Monday. (Missing from photograph,

he room is dotted with familiar faces. Mostly familiar faces. Arms folded, they listen with interest, a businesslike mood prevailing. Most of those present have been around the course many times. At different times in our recent history, the course has been in good condition, then difficult, then almost unplayable. There are maybe forty members of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce in the room. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Wednesday night in November and a revitalised and re-energised group are meeting to prepare for the Christmas season. Mostly familiar faces, salt of the earth and resilient business people from the town who have been over the course year after year. The course became exceptionally hazardous over the past seven or eight years. Now you can almost see the clouds begin to part. Also in the room are a handful of less familiar

faces. New blood. New businesses. New members. New energy. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been an exceptionally harrowing seven years for the business fraternity, as it has been for so many within the wider community. Now a seven-year itch is hopefully being dealt with. There is a great town to promote. There are challenges to face. And the Chamber is ready.

uite a bit of coffee has been consumed in recent weeksâ&#x20AC;Śmeetings held, boxes ticked, ideas developed, actions taken. Voluntary members are hard at work. A concerted, co-ordinated effort is being put in by an active â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and pro-active â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Chamber. It follows all the good groundwork of recent years. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas campaign features new innovations, as Roscommon Chamber members work together to highlight whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available in the county town and to

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

Lights, Chamber, Action! promote the ‘shop local’ ethos. Sub-committees have been busy. The selfless, superb Christmas Lights Committee have done their great work again. Watch out for another spectacular lights display from Gerry Dervin (chairperson) and colleagues this year, featuring further expansion of the scheme. Other sub-committees have overseen marketing, signage, various fringe events and a new late night shopping initiative. Work is being done behind closed doors and in the open air. Earlier in the year, the Chamber unveiled some beautiful flower arrangements throughout the town. Just now, the whole emphasis is on Christmas. The Chamber members want to sustain and increase business. That will maintain existing jobs and hopefully lead to new employment. But there is also a huge social and family-friendly aspect to Roscommon Chamber’s Christmas 2015 drive. Christmas in Roscommon town is about to move on to a new level…

he festive season

in Roscommon town will reflect the new hope which is gently seeping into the business community. The Chamber is embracing the moment and taking steps to enhance the family-friendly atmosphere in Roscommon this Christmas. From Sunday next, and throughout all of December, piped festive music will be a backdrop to the ebbing and flowing on Roscommon’s streets. There will be performances by local choirs, the now traditional great lights display, a Christmas Market, an AIB-sponsored Christmas Shop Window competition, and many more festive features. On this Sunday (29th of November) the great man will call. Santa always draws a huge crowd when he performs the formal switching on of the Christmas lights. Santa will do the honours on Sunday at 5 pm. The Chamber have pulled out all the stops. Complimentary hot drinks will be served (including hot chocolate, with exciting talk also

HALF

of marshmallows!) from various outlets dotted around the town. Under its unassuming and industrious president, Declan Molloy, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce is taking positive forward steps. There is a new sense of determination evident, a realisation of what needs to be done and of what can be achieved, and an appreciation that teamwork is essential to the process of gaining desired outcomes. It’s been a very rough ride over the past seven years or so. The course has been almost unplayable. If, as seems to be the case, we are in recovery, then there is still quite a bit of recovering to be done. With businesses working together, and with the support of the public, the fightback can be successful. The work has begun, the Chamber is ready, the clouds are beginning to part…Roscommon’s recovery is underway.

John Ward, Declan Walsh, lights in Roscommon tow Eamonn Gleeson, John Doorly and Jimmy Ser vis erecting Christmas n earlier this month. Pic ture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

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Declan Molloy

Working together for town and community What’s special about the Chamber’s 2015 drive? It’s a few years since we had a real, co-ordinated effort. We mentioned doing a pro-active coordinated campaign to Chamber members, and when we held our first meeting, we were pleasantly surprised at the response. We very quickly set up five sub-committees to get to work. What I noticed about that first meeting was that a lot of old businesses in the town were represented. These businesses are the backbone of rural Ireland. I thought, for example, of all the children who have got part-time work over the years in those businesses. Many of those businesses have been through two or three recessions. The campaign itself will be positive, promoting the town, and it will also be family-friendly. For example on Sunday, when we switch on the Christmas lights, many outlets will serve complimentary hot drinks; it’s a thank you from us.

Is Roscommon in recovery? Yes, but it’s obviously not as good as in the cities…but footfall has increased, traffic has increased and the general consensus amongst businesses is that things are better than last year.

What are Roscommon town’s unique selling points? Well, we’re always promoting the free parking, which is a great asset. We have a number of award-winning shops, something I often feel we’re hesitant about promoting. The personal service we can offer is a huge plus. Owners/managers and staff know their customers, in many cases

CoffeeBreak < DECLAN MOLLOY

People Editor PAUL HEALY sat down with Roscommon Chamber of Commerce President DECLAN MOLLOY – over coffee (yes, in Molloy’s) – and dispatched ten random questions… they’re dealing with the same customers for years, so there is a real personal relationship there.

Declan, give us a childhood Christmas memory that stands out for you… Oh it would have to be Christmas morning. I was one of five boys, so as you can imagine there was always a buzz! Let’s just say I’ve come to appreciate now the job our parents had! From a business point of view, I remember it was manic in the shops in the 1970s and ‘80s. There were no multinationals…in those days shops closed for about four days over Christmas, so you can imagine how busy Christmas Eve was!

What’s your guilty pleasure at Christmas? Well, I purposely don’t eat turkey during the year. That includes during December; I’ll wait until Christmas Day and really enjoy the turkey then!

What is the magic of Christmas? One thing I love about Christmas is meeting all the people who

come home to Roscommon for Christmas…school pals and so on. That’s a special part of Christmas.

How will you spend Christmas Day? I’ll go to Mass, that’s important, then I’ll do the GOAL Mile Walk. Then I’ll cook Christmas Dinner; I do the cooking in our house, I enjoy it, it’s therapy! I’ll cook a traditional Christmas Dinner, complete with Padraig Muldoon’s sprouts! There’ll be myself, Mary T (his wife), Mark (their son) – between six and twelve people in all, counting relatives – but our daughter, Jackie-Ann won’t be home, she’s in Australia.

Is Declan Molloy an early Christmas shopper or a last-minute man? (Smiles)…I don’t do an awful lot of shopping, but I do shop locally! I will be buying for (on behalf of) Jackie-Ann.

Speaking of shopping locally, I presume you’d like to issue an appeal to the public to do so? Yes, certainly. We are giving out

free hot drinks when the lights are switched on this Sunday, that’s a small gesture, a thank you from businesses. I appreciate the very hard work put in by the Christmas Lights Committee. Many of them have said they get such a buzz from seeing the smiles on kids’ faces each year. Many of the committee aren’t even business owners. I appeal to people to shop locally. In the Chamber, for our part, we’ll continue to do our best to promote the town.

What would be your big hope for Roscommon in 2016? More employment. We’ve lost so many young people to emigration. We need to try and keep the next generation here. Per capita, we have more students in third level education than any other county in the country, so we have the brains (in Roscommon)…the problem is we are exporting our brains! At the Young Entrepreneurs Competition recently I was amazed at the calibre of Roscommon entries. Can I just add, on the GAA front, that I am very happy to see the new management team, I know those lads and I know they will be totally committed to Roscommon. Hopefully Roscommon can retain their Division One status in 2016. It will be great to see Division One teams coming here. It will be good for local businesses too. Hopefully we can win a Connacht title. So overall I am positive about the future. We saw an increase in tourists last year and people were very impressed with the town. The Chamber will continue working to promote it. I would like to thank people for their ongoing support and wish everyone a very Happy Christmas.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

o o h W To… s n r e c n o C It It’s LATE NIGHT Christmas Shopping in Roscommon Every Friday ‘til 8 pm Be wise…shop locally in Roscommon town… for everything you need this Christmas!

Main Street, Roscommon

PHONE: 083 4844333

Also find us on Facebook/thecomfycafe

Our new Coffee Counter will be open this Sunday for the Christmas lights

Perfect for those busy lunch-breaks or early mornings for New York style take-out coffee and food on the go Delicious freshly prepared sandwiches, rolls and salads available daily for take-away at new counter

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

ROSCOMMON TYRE CENTRE Props: Aaron & Colin Mullally

Circular Road, Roscommon

Tel: (090) 66 26626 Fax: (090) 66 27022

Mobile: (087) 9007898

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FREE TYRE Safety Thread Depth and pressure check to prepare your tyres for Harsh Winter Conditions FREE BATTERY & CAR ELECTRIC HEALTH CHECK AND FREE Four Wheel Alignment with every four tyres purchased

Winter & All Season Tyres In Stock • Tyres • Exhausts • Stockists of Bosch Batteries 3 & 4 Year warranty • John Bean Laser Alignment • Headlight Focusing

Five festive minutes with…Kevin Woods <DAN DOONER Roscommon Drama Club’s latest production, Canaries, opens this evening (26th) at the Roscommon Arts Centre and runs through the weekend. The Roscommon People recently sat down with Kevin Lyons, who plays Tommy in the play, to ask him those all-important Christmas questions… Kevin? Tommy? If you were to have a fantasy Christmas Dinner and could invite anyone, who would be there?

Well I suppose you’d have to start with your friends and family or you’d be disowned otherwise. Then I think I’d go with Noel Gallagher, former World Rally champion, Petter

Solberg and (long pause) Kevin McGahan the comedian because he’d be a bit of craic!

Best Christmas present you’ve ever received? I actually got a book two years ago called ‘The Guards’, which was a book of pictures of the Gardaí doing Garda things! A photographer followed them around and just took pictures for a few months. At the time I had joined the Garda reserve!

Brussels sprouts… delicious or disaster? Absolute disaster, a pointless vegetable!

Favourite Christmas tune? That John Lennon one. Happy Christmas (War is Over).

What are you asking Santa for this year? I’m going for my pilot’s licence so any type of jet, but sure let’s say a 737!

Members of the cast of ‘Canaries,’ including Noel Gallagher fan Kevin! Left to right: Marie Conroy, Alex McCurley, Mary Cox, Kieran Madden, Bernadette Marr, Steve Gregory, Kevin Woods, Joanne Hone, Jimmy Hoban, Margaret Madden and Noreen Hawkins pictured at the Quad Centre. Picture: Andrew Fox

Christmas Countdown…by numbers

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75 The number of businesses that are members of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce

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Feel the difference

The time that shops in Roscommon town will be open until on Fridays leading up to Christmas

18,000 That’s the circulation of the Roscommon People, making it the most popular and most widely-read newspaper in the region. Ask any of our newsagents – and please support our local newsagents!

5 At 5 o’clock this Sunday, 29th of November, Santa Claus is due in Roscommon town to officially switch on the Christmas lights

1,000 The number of euro worth of vouchers which will be won by Roscommon People readers (ten readers will each receive a €100 voucher) as part of a Christmas Shopping Giveaway jointly sponsored by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People …see page 26

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

Exclusive interview with Santa Claus

Red Parrot THE SQUARE

ROSCOMMON 090-6625700 Join us for a Hot Toddie after the switching on of the Christmas Lights on Sunday evening, 29th November

Music with Joe Duffy

MOLLOY’S

< DAN DOONER AT THE NORTH POLE Roscommon is gearing up for another whirlwind visit from Santa Claus this Christmas and preparations are going well in Lapland. I recently spoke to Santa just before his daily yoga session (it’s hard work getting down those chimneys!) and he was really looking forward to his visit to Roscommon. “Well hello Dan, I know you very well. You are constantly on my naugh…” Santa, let me stop you there! Can I ask you about your preparations for Christmas? “Things are going very well. We recently had a shipment of Playstation parts in from Japan so the elves are busy assembling as we speak. Also we have an increased demand for Ireland and Roscommon jerseys this Christmas. Big things must be happening in 2016!”

How do you cover the whole planet in one night? “I can’t give away all my secrets, but The North Pole is the most advanced research and development institution in the world. If you’ve ever seen the movie Iron Man, well the elves are even more advanced and creative than Tony Stark. The sleigh can hit warp speeds, which are invisible to the human eye, and of course we make use of the time zones.

“It’s funny, people still think the clocks go back to give them one extra hour in bed, but in reality it’s to give me and the reindeer extra time!”

What if you are naughty or badly behaved? “Ho ho ho, you should know! There is no naughty list for Roscommon, ahem, well, due to data protection I’m not allowed to discuss it.”

What’s your favourite county to visit Santa?

“Well in Dublin the houses are smaller with very little room to park a sleigh so we sometimes have to use a present launcher, which is a bit like a bazooka. Also, our insurance costs are much higher if we park in Dublin overnight. “In Roscommon there is more room and the

MAIN STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel.: 090 6626120 or 087 6546512

air is much cleaner. Insurance is also cheaper and the roofs are lower. In Mayo, I deliver a lot of county jerseys at Christmas but they are always returned around August for some reason! Roscommon wins for me!”

Well Santa, I know you’re very busy so I won’t keep you, but before I go what snacks should people leave for you? “Well I’m on this new health buzz and at the moment I’m in the middle of a bulking cycle, so protein shakes and plenty of protein enriched foo…”

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People

Christmas presents: OUR BEST & WORST!

Christmas in Roscommon

< INTERVIEWS: DAN DOONER Jenni Sherlock.

Niall Loftus (21), Roscommon town “My best present was the Gameboy Advance, hours and hours of fun. The worst present was the Christmas morning my parents decided to troll me. They got a big box and wrapped it and when I opened it, it was full of country music CDs!”

Jenni Sherlock (25), Racecourse Road

Niall Loftus.

“My laptop is still the best Christmas present. The worst has to be the year my boyfriend tried to teach me how to light a fire properly so he bought me a fire-starting kit.”

Kevin Forde.

Kevin Forde (23), Boyle “My best Christmas present was a memory foam mattress, I’m still very much in love. My worst had to be a science book my parents bought me when they were attempting to encourage a love of science. I hate science more than ever!” Declan Ryan.

Darragh Moran (45), Elphin “Commodore 64 (computer game system) was my best. The ZX81 (computer game system) had to be the worst. I cried for a week, and when I had finished crying the game still hadn’t loaded!”

Declan Ryan (26), Roscommon town “The best Christmas present was the Playstation 2 and the worst has to be socks. Every year it’s socks!” Darragh Moran.

Cregg O’Callaghan PSRA No.: 001189

19 Abbey Street, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

Tel.: 090- 666 5100 / 071 964 0000 John O’Callaghan Mobile: 087 6904895 Email: john@home2home.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Weekend

PEOPLE

SOCIAL PEOPLE:

Bringing ‘Christmas Memories’ to the stage < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A show called ‘Christmas Memories’, based on rural life in the past – and inspired by rural Leitrim in the 1960s – will be performed in Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday, December 5 (8 pm). The writer and storyteller, Anthony O’Boyle, takes a nostalgic look back at Christmas in the small village of Dromahair, north Leitrim, during his upbringing. He attempts to capture a bygone era. “The first half of the show is about the lead-up to Christmas years ago – Latin Mass, etc.,” said Anthony, who now lives at Ratoath, Co. Meath. Comedy illuminates a collection of stories that are rich in humour and pathos. It’s a unique show with a homely, heart-warming collection of tales and songs which will really get the audience into the festive spirit. Vocalists Petrova Mulvey, the director of Athlone School of Singing, and Margaret Mulligan, a prominent member of Athlone Musical Society, both contribute to make this a unique show with some beautiful songs. In the production, Anthony O’Boyle himself narrates a heartwarming collection of tales. The original production was directed by the late Fr Patsy Young, whom many people will remember fondly for his contribution to amateur drama. The production will be performed by Spiders Ankles in Roscommon Arts Centre for one night only. Come along and enjoy a trip down memory lane! Tickets are on sale, priced at €15/€12 and €10. For further information, call 090-6625824/www. roscommonartscentre.ie.

‘Gifted’ Goss in return to Arts Centre Roscommon Arts Centre are delighted to welcome one of Ireland’s leading songwriters and performers, Kieran Goss on December 11th for an evening which will delight music fans. While Kieran’s songs have made him a star, his live shows have made him a legend. Live on stage is where Kieran Goss really shines. Kieran is renowned for winning the hearts of his audience, not just with great songs and instinctive musicality, but also with his warmth and humour. Growing up in a big family with diverse musical tastes saw Kieran influenced

by Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson and Willie Nelson and many others which inspired Kieran to create his own unique sound. His early career saw him support Elvis Costello and Christy Moore and he released his first solo album Brand New Star in 1989. Kieran followed up Brand New Star with New Day in 1994 and in 1998 he released the album Worse Than Pride, which contained the Top 10 single Out Of My Head. It was the second most played song on Irish radio that year. In the winter of 2002, Goss released the compilation Out Of My Head... The Best

Of Kieran Goss. On the night Kieran will perform the first half of the show solo and will be joined on stage in the second half by harmony singer Annie Kinsella. As Time Out Magazine wrote of their performance together: “Individually, they are both gifted singers but when they sing together, magic happens… the harmonies, the chemistry… just sublime.” This is a rare chance to see Kieran performing in an intimate venue so book your tickets now! Booking now at Roscommon Arts Centre on 09066 25824/ www.roscommonartscentre.ie.

See page 44 - 45

Kyle Casey Fund Charity Show at C&L Plex The C&L Plex Cinema will play host to the Kyle Casey Fund charity show on Tuesday and Wednesday, the 8th and 9th of December. Kyle, 12, is an amazing young man who was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year and has undergone treatment for the past 12 months. The show, which explains the true meaning of Christmas, will be packed with storytelling, puppets, illusion and music and is a ‘must-see’ for primary school children. There will be two performances each day, at 5.30 pm and 7 pm. Tickets are available for €3 each at the C&L Plex Cinema. You can find out more about Kyle on his facebook page: Thekylecaseyfund.

Roscommon/Mayo Hospice Mistletoe Ball The Mistletoe Ball in aid of Roscommon/ Mayo Hospice palliative care service takes place in Breaffy House Resort, Castlebar on Saturday, 12th December. Doors open at 7.30 pm with a champagne and mulled wine reception. Great funpacked night with entertainment to suit all ages including: special guests, surprise performers, great food, an auction, a raffle with fantastic prizes and lots more. Come along, treat yourself and see a spectacular event unfold while supporting local palliative care services. For more information, contact 094 9388666. The Let Love Shine a Light Christmas Appeal in aid of Roscommon/Mayo Hospice Palliative Care Service gets underway this week and will continue up until Christmas Eve. You are invited to sponsor a light on the ‘Tree of Light’ in Knock for a friend, a family member (living or deceased) or for a special intention. You will receive a special card to send as a gift to let someone know you are thinking of them at this special time of year. Cards will be available in the Hospice shops, local Hospice Support groups and local pharmacies or by contacting 094 9388666.

Tidy Towns celebration in Castlecoote Castlecoote Tidy Towns are holding a party in PJ’s on Saturday, 5th of December to celebrate winning a Gold Medal and being 1st in the county this year. This is the second such award for Castlecoote and all are invited to help celebrate our great achievement. Also, a big thank you to one and all who have supported us through the years and we invite you to come along and enjoy the celebrations.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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

Hamrock’s

minnows

Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday, 28th November:

Ciaran Rosney

NEW RELEASE FRIDAY 27th

Centre Point Retail Park Roscommon KIDS MOVIE Centre PointCLUB Retail(KMC) Park Roscommon AdultMOVIE & Kids Tickets €3 each KIDS CLUBONLY (KMC) For All Enquiries Tel: Adult & Kids Tickets090-6665333 ONLY €3 each facebook/ C & L plex For all enquiries Tel: 090-6665333

Saturday, 28th November

Dancing with

Sean Brennan LINE DANCING CLASSES continue on Wednesday nights at 8.30pm

ABBA Forever The Christmas Show returns to Arts Centre

Dance the night away this Saturday night (28th November) with the great Seán Brennan at the Tulsk Inn. This is guaranteed to be a wonderful night of entertainment so bring your dancing shoes and enjoy songs such as Blue Kilkenny Eyes as Seán keeps you dancing until late!

Featuring Mike Banahan with Brendan Emmett Week Commencing Fri 27th-Thurs 3rd

(KMC) Sat & Sun Only

A CHRISTMAS STAR (G)

12:40 (KMC); 14:35

BLACK MASS (15A)

14:00; 16:30; 19:05; 21:30

BROOKLYN (12A)

16:50; 19:15; 21:40

MAYA THE BEE MOVIE (G)

12:10 (KMC); 14:15; 16:20

PAN 2D (PG)

12:00 (KMC); 14:25

THE DRESSMAKER (12A)

16:45; 18:45; 21:40

THE GOOD DINOSAUR 2D (PG)

14:30; 19:15

THE GOOD DINOSAUR 3D (PG)

16:30

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 2 2D (12A)

18:25; 21:15

THE HUNGER GAMES: MOCKINGJAY PART 2 3D (12A)

21:15

ing for the arts locally, featuring 30 artists and 30 places. Renowned artists such as Tony O’Malley, Alice Maher, Robert Ballagh, John Kindness, Norah McGuiness, Sean McSweeney, Sean Lynch and John Shinnors alongside emerging artists Cora Cummins, Cleary Con-

Every Thursday 9pm - 11pm Friday 27th:

John Kerrigan’s Memories of The Snug DVD Launch at 7pm Saturday 28th:

Hank Wedel Sunday 29th:

Patricia Lane with Anthony McDermott Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Friday night last were Gerard Kelly and Mary Silke. Picture: Andrew Fox

Entertainment at JJ’s In JJ’s, The Square, Roscommon, tonight and every Thursday sees entertainment from Folk Club, featuring Mike Banahan and Brendan Emmett from 9-11 pm. Tomorrow night (Friday, 27th) John Kerrigan will launch his DVD Memories of the Snug.

On Saturday, American born singersongwriter, Hank Wedel, will take to the stage. Hank has performed with such legends as Kila, Declan Sinnott, Shane McGowan – and even Bono – and this promises to be a great evening of entertainment.

Roscommon artist features in major Irish Art Exhibition Roscommon artist, Linda Shevlin, features in one of the most significant exhibitions of Irish artists in recent years, 30 Years, Artists, Places, which will be launched in glór, Ennis on December 7th ahead of an extensive nationwide tour. The exhibition marks 30 years since local authorities embarked on provid-

Telephone: 090 6626225

FOLK CLUB

‘ABBA Forever’ The Christmas Show, returns to Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday, 19th December at 8 pm. Having entertained Roscommon audiences for the past three years, another great night is guaranteed again this year. It’s always party time when ABBA are about, but when it’s the Christmas Show, then that’s a real excuse for a party! This sing-a-long show celebrates with a loud and proud fanfare. It’s the perfect way to start your Christmas celebrations. Abba Forever was formed and is lead by Dennis Scally, a London-born musician who has been at the top of the music game for many years. From Waterloo to Dancing Queen, expect a dazzling, fantastic performance including the most iconic hits, Mamma Mia, SOS, Money, Money Money, The Winner Takes All, Gimme Gimme, Gimme and many more! Booking now at Roscommon Arts Centre on 090 66 25824/www.roscommonartscentre.ie

Dancing at the Tulsk Inn

- Market Square, Roscommon Thursday 26th

facebook/C&L plex

The Country Ballroom

TULSK INN

JJ HARLOWS

nolly, Lisa Fingleton, Jenny Brady, Vanessa Lopez and David Stephenson and many others feature in the exhibition, which is being funded by the Arts Council. In tandem with the exhibition opening, the Association of Local Authority Arts Officers has organised a seminar for December

7th looking at the current challenges facing local arts development and examining the rationale behind the exhibition. Key contributors include Dr. Ciarán Benson, former Chairperson of the Arts Council, Pat Cooke, Director of the MA in Cultural Policy at Arts Management at UCD, and Martin

Drury, Strategic Development Director with the Arts Council. Muireann Ni Chonaill, Laois Arts Officer and exhibition curator, will be speaking about the exhibition along with Lynn McGrane from the National Gallery of Ireland, who devised the accompanying education programme.

- 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

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JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Saturday night last were Noeleen Rudden, Leona Hennigan and Tina Murray.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Saturday night last were Marie Conroy, Darina Hanly and Catherine Mullen.

Out & About Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon

Photographs:

Andrew Fox Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Saturday night last were Mary Teresa Browne, Miriam Whyte and Amanda Duffy.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Saturday night last were Sandra Crean, Sinéad Benedetti, Stephanie Cuddy Cullen and Ruth Lennon.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Saturday night last were Amanda Duffy and Catherine Mullarkey.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Saturday night last were Ann Mannion and Fiona Coyle.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Saturday night last were Siobhán Carthy and June Murray.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Saturday night last were Jude Lohan and Dervilla Hoare.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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

Pictured enjoying Joe Divilly’s 40th birthday celebrations were Joe (senior), Teresa and Joe Divilly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured enjoying Joe Divilly’s 40th birthday celebrations were Marilyn and Joe Divilly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured enjoying Joe Divilly’s 40th birthday celebrations were Breda Comer, Jacqueline Conneely, Bridie Conneelly, Helen Lambe, Joe and Marilyn Divilly. Picture: Andrew Fox

t u o b A & t u O Joe Divilly’s 40th birthday

Pictured enjoying Joe Divilly’s 40th birthday celebrations were David and Jacqueline. Picture: Andrew Fox

(Divilly’s Pub, Glenamaddy) Photographs: Andrew Fox

Pictured enjoying Joe Divilly’s 40th birthday celebrations were Tracey Comer and David Burke. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured enjoying Joe Divilly’s 40th birthday celebrations were Brendan and Aileen Divilly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured enjoying Joe Divilly’s 40th birthday celebrations were Eamon Hegarty, Kevin Fleming, Scott Doherty and Stan Collins. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured enjoying Joe Divilly’s 40th birthday celebrations were Ciara Doherty and Ken Morgan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

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

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Friday night last were Mary Coyle, Fr. Francis Beirne, Tom Lynch, Frank Cadem and Elsie Owens. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Friday night last were Mai Towey, Liz Fannon and Phil McDonnell. Picture: Andrew Fox

Out & About ‘An Evening With Percy French’ (Abbey Hotel, Roscommon) Photographs:

Andrew Fox

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Friday night last were Deirdre Kelly, Michael Croghan, Bernie O’Brien, Noeleen Rudden and Monica Finn. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Friday night last were Tess Kearney and Gráinne Merriman. Picture: Andrew Fox

Out & About Miriam Hastings’ 21st Birthday Party Pictured at Miriam Hastings’ birthday party are Emma Butler and Niamh Coyle, Curraghboy, Megan Coyle and Miriam Hastings, Ballyforan, Laura Keegan, Creggs, Erica Delaney, Roscommon, and Tara Burke, Four Roads. Picture: David Walsh.

Pictured at Miriam Hastings’ 21st birthday party are Rosaleen, George and Mark McCourt, with Miriam. Picture: David Walsh.

Pictured at Miriam Hastings’ 21st birthday party are Rachel, Monica, Miriam and Claude Hastings. Picture: David Walsh.

Pictured at Miriam Hastings’ 21st birthday party is Miriam with a group of her friends. Picture: David Walsh.

Photographs:

David Walsh

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

NewsPeople Cancer Care West fundraising dance a success The Annual Fundraising Dance in aid of Cancer Care West and the Lourdes Invalid Fund held in Dowd’s in Glinsk on Saturday, October 10th was again a great success, with €3,700 raised and each charity receiving €1,850. Mr. Frank Brandon and his hard-working committee from Creggs spent many a night going from house to house selling tickets. They don’t put a price on the tickets, but leave admission optional which is one of the reasons the dance is a success each year. At the presentation to the two charities at a function held in Dowd’s, Glinsk on Wednesday, November 4th, Frank Brandon thanked all the members of his committee who spent many nights walking the length and breadth of Creggs and Glinsk to make the dance a success. He thanked all those who supported the dance and all who donated spot prizes. He said that the committee was delighted to be associated with both charities. He thanked the Dowd family of Glinsk for the use of their premises on both occasions. Mr. David O’Donnell of Cancer Care West thanked the committee for again including Cancer Care West. He outlined the great work they do and said the donation they received would help them to continue their great work. Mr. Danny Burke, Castlerea Lourdes Deanery PRO, thanked Frank Brandon and his committee, stating that Frank and himself had been friends for forty years. He said: “Eight years ago Frank said that he would run a dance for Lourdes and for the past four years Cancer Care West have been included and we in the Lourdes Committee were delighted, as both charities are worthy causes. “I would like to thank the people of Creggs and Glinsk for the great support they give to Lourdes – not just to the dance but also (through) the Barrie Harris Walk.”

Four repossessions granted to banks Four repossessions were granted to banks at a sitting of Roscommon Circuit Court recently. A total of 57 such cases were listed before the County Registrar as financial institutions sought to take action against those in arrears on their mortgages. The vast majority of the cases were adjourned for a future sitting of the court, but four possession orders were granted on the day.

Samaritans Christmas concert The Samaritans’ 24th Annual Christmas Concert will be held in the Franciscan Friary Church, Athlone on Thursday, 10th December at 8 pm. It will feature the Army Band of the 2nd Brigade, Tenor David Martin, Athlone A Cappella and Athlone Town Pipe Band. This year’s compere is RTE’s Cathal Murray. Tickets are €12 and available in shops in Athlone, Cunninghams’ Chemists, Midland Sound Equipment and the Friary. The Samaritans are available on freephone 116 123 (24 hours) for anyone who is troubled, despairing or just needs to talk to someone in confidence.

THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club First Session McManus Cup. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club Bank of Ireland results – 1st: J. Godden & B. Ferguson, 2nd: M. & V. Brennan, 3rd: L. Shine & J. Halliday, 1st Session: L. Curley & S. Cooney 2nd Session: M. Kearns & J. Donnellan. St. Coman’s Bridge Club North/South – 1st: S. Farrell & B. McCarthy, 2nd: M. Coyle & E. Moran, 3rd: A. Flynn & N. Hynes. East/West-1st: M. Pullinger & B. Weir, 2nd: A. Carney & M. Dolan, 3rd: M. Moran & M. Egan. Ballymurray Bridge Club Section A North/South – 1st: S. Farrell & J. Walsh, 2nd: K. Blighe & F. Neilan, 3rd: J. & S. Kelly. East/West – 1st: P. & V. Finneran, 2nd: K. Gately & M. Naughton, 3rd: S. & M. Quinn. Section B North/South – 1st: B. Jordan & M. Wilson, 2nd: M. Law & S. Farrell, 3rd: M. Dolan & A. Carney. East/West – 1st: B. Gillooly & F. Keane, 2nd: G. McDermott & A. Igoe, 3rd: M. Pender & M. Quinn. Beginners – 1st: J. & C. Carty.

FRANKLY SPEAKING Frank Brandon’s unique take on life ...

Importance of supporting our local businesses A few weeks ago, in one of these weekly pieces, I was delighted to write about the manner in which the village of Athleague was, if you like, fighting back against the nationwide rural demise, and amongst the many positive bits of news was the fact that Applegreen were about to take over, and re-open, the petrol station on the Roscommon road. However the local papers last week carried advertisements placing the newly-acquired business for sale, which would immediately set alarm bells ringing and begs the question why it would be beneficial for the Applegreen people to sell the Athleague station so quickly. I’m told they bought ten such stations around the same time, all over the country, and they are also offloading one outside Westport, so I have to assume those two purchases have proved less successful than they would have hoped for. Why that has happened, obviously I have no idea, but I suppose the message must be the same to everyone in the local catchment area – whether it’s sold or not, local businesses need to be supported, and it’s only when they are gone that we realise how much we miss them. Up here in Athlone, a while ago the media carried stories about the proprietor of a local shop, The Cova, which is situated just as you hit the motorway off the Ballymahon road – and it reported how the owner had been viciously assaulted in the course of the third robbery in a matter of months: sadly that business is now closed, and, whatever the reason, another small family business has bit the dust. Now I realise the circumstances are not the same, but too many local ventures are failing and it’s up to us to do our bit to try and prevent such happenings, and with Christmas coming let’s keep a little bit for our own local shopkeepers.

The ugly truth Changing subjects entirely, and, as they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, which may explain why a riot broke out in Zimbabwe last week over the result of a Mr Ugly contest, in which the winner, 42-year-old Mison Sere, was branded as too good looking by supporters of the former three-time champion, William Masinvu. The judges were mobbed by the loser, and his followers, who claimed Sere only won because he was missing so many of his front teeth. Masinvu claimed that he was naturally ugly, while the winner was ugly only when he opened his mouth! I haven’t seen any pictures of the runnerup, but based on what I’ve seen, Sere seems to be a worthy winner and is ugly enough to deserve his 500 dollar prize. I told you last week about the hurdy-gurdy men, and the Punch and Judy shows, who used come to the local schools when I was a child, and how we used enjoy them! Well it seems Mr Ugly is visiting schools in Zimbabwe, showcasing his ugliness, and he’s looking forward to using that as a stepping stone to a lucrative TV career.

Mountbellew & District Active Retirement celebrated its 10th anniversary with Dinner in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon last Friday night. Pictured were Patricia O’Brien, Rose Devaney and Ita Farrell. Picture: Andrew Fox

It just goes to show that there’s always a way, and even if you’re like the back of a bus, don’t give up –I know it’s a long way away, but you could always hit the big time in Zimbabwe.

What’s happened to Barbie?

I didn’t see the TV3 toy show last Friday night, as I was in the hall, but earlier in the evening, as I was tucking into the dinner, I saw a six-year-old girl, who was featuring on the show, being asked what she had asked Santa for for Christmas, and I was saddened when she said she had asked for an iPad (at six years of age). What’s happened to Barbie, or a different doll, or skates, or a kitchen set – anything other than a technological gadget?

Great entertainment

Being a star in Zimbabwe is one thing, but last Friday night we had several local stars in action in the parochial hall in Kilbegnet, when the local drama group staged AJ Stanley’s three-act play, ‘Troubled Bachelors’. Now I have long been an advocate of locally-based entertainment and I can only say that the Larry Donoghue-produced play was just brilliant, and every one of the cast was quite superb. It’s probably not fair to mention any one member, but the performance of Seamus Keane was on a par with anything you would see from any professional actor in any setting, and the whole offering was great. The good news is that, if you missed it, don’t fret, as it’s all on again this Friday night, 27th November at 8.30 pm in the same venue. All I can say is don’t miss it – it’s great craic, and well worth a visit.

Launch of Barrie Harris Walk Anyway, back to local matters, and next Saturday night the 21st annual Barrie Harris Walk is being launched in Mikeen’s, at 9.30 pm, and everyone is encouraged to come along, get your sponsorship cards, and make sure a huge amount is collected for all the many charities that benefit from the walk every year. Hundreds of thousands of euro have been raised over the years, and so many charities have been supported, so let’s make a special effort for the 21st and make it one to remember. In the meantime, I’ll see you on Saturday night and we might even have a pint. It’s all go on the local social scene at the moment, and on Saturday night, 5th of December the local GAA club are launching their long-awaited history of the club, in the school hall at 9 pm. This has been a massive undertaking, and the end result will, I’m sure, be well worth waiting for! Everyone who ever had anything to do with the club (or even with any of the players) is invited to attend the launch, which is being done by the Roscommon football manager, Kevin McStay. The book will be on sale at €15, and by all accounts it’s a steal at it!

And ﬁnally… Finally for this week, it’s been birthday after birthday out our way over the last few weeks, so, in Creggs, happy birthday (belated) to Tina Gavin (age unspecified), Laura Keegan (21st), Killian White and Michael Roarke (30 each), while over in Terry Leyden’s a few weeks ago, there was a huge crowd (including two senators, and a TD) for Indian Mick Larkin’s 60th birthday. Congrats to them all. ‘Til next week, Bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Business Loughglynn business shortlisted for Agribusiness Awards next month Bio Friendly Limited, based in Loughglynn, has been shortlisted for the Agribusiness Award 2015. They have been named as one of seven finalists in the Agribusiness Sustainability Award. The overall winners of this year’s awards will be announced at the prestigious awards ceremony on December 8 in Dublin. Bio Friendly Limited was established by Brendan and Esther Gordon in 2004 in Loughglynn, Castlerea, to supplement his income. It is a family-run business which manufac-

tures Sewage Treatment Systems for One-Off houses and to Upgrade Existing Septic Tanks. The manufacturing plant is situated on his farm and the idea was inspired by the need to prevent pollution, of the drinking water supply, by effluent from septic tanks.

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New rates incentives introduced in Roscommon < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A new rates incentive scheme has been introduced by Roscommon County Council that offers significant reductions to new businesses who occupy vacant commercial premises in the county. It is designed to stimulate economic activity, create more jobs and to reduce the amount of vacant properties throughout various towns. The rates reduction would affect the businesses for five years, gradually decreasing each year. No rates whatsoever would be payable in year one, with an 80 per cent reduction in year two, 60 per cent in year three, 40 per cent in year four and 20 per cent

in year five. This incentive will be available to new businesses that have not traded in the county in the 12 months before occupying the vacant premises. An incentive for early payment of commercial rates has also been introduced: a 5 per cent reduction in annual rates for all businesses who pay them by June 30 of each year. These incentives were unveiled at Monday’s meeting of the local authority. The scheme was put together by the strategic policy committee for economic development, which includes local business people as well as councillors. The chairperson of the committee, Independent councillor Tony Ward, said that the council were

aware of the challenges facing businesses, and that the scheme was designed to reduce the burden on them. He said: “The scheme aims to help the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector by providing an incentive to both landlords and aspiring entrepreneurs to occupy vacant units, by removing and reducing business entry costs and to reduce operational costs of being in business in Co. Roscommon. “The scheme is intended to benefit new occupiers of commercial business premises that are currently vacant and act as a spur for kick-starting economic activity throughout the county and fostering jobs creation.” The scheme adopted by

the council after receiving widespread support. Cllr. Domnick Connolly, an Independent, said that it would act as a “huge incentive” for new businesses coming into Roscommon town. However, Sinn Féin Councillor Michael Mulligan called for a special scheme to be introduced for Ballaghaderreen businesses that had suffered as a result of the Dublin-Westport bypass, which was opened in September 2014. He said: “Until things improve, I would like them to be taken into consideration – the business people in the centre of Ballaghaderreen and the town itself would have some sort of a scheme.

Shirley honoured at Nursing Home Care Awards A Roscommon nursing home representative was honoured at the Nursing Homes Ireland Care Awards 2015, in association with Homecare Medical Supplies. Shirley Larkin of Sonas Nursing Home, Cloverhill, was one of three national finalists in the Nursing Home Innovations in Dementia Care Award Category. Shirley was not the recipient of the award but was honoured at the national awards ceremony that took place at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel in Dublin on Thursday, 12th November. Shirley was a finalist at the Pictured is Gráinne Seioge, event MC, with Shirley Larkin, Sonas Nursing Home, Cloverhill, at the Nursing Homes Ireland Care Awards held in Dublin recently. awards ceremony.

“I would be grateful if that was considered.” However, the head of finance and planning, Martin Lydon, said it would not be possible to have a rates reduction solely for Ballaghaderreen.

Colette Fitzpatrick, TV3, Una Ni Chuinn, Roscommon Co. Council and Louise Ward, LEO Roscommon, pictured at MeetWest Conference in the Hodson Bay Hotel. More pictures in next week’s issue. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

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Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

FarmingPeople Castlerea Co-operative Livestock Mart Ltd. TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com PROPERTY SERVICES PROVIDERS LICENCE NO. 002249 THURSDAY 26TH NOVEMBER:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS 3 RINGS IN OPERATION. ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. FOR SALE IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR USUAL SALE ON 26/11/15

10 CONTINENTAL SPRINGING HEIFERS DUE 01/01/16 ONWARDS TO PB LIM BULL. HEIFERS SCANNED IN CALF. ALSO PURE BRED CHAROLAIS BULL 19 MONTHS. SIRE: MOZART. MONDAY WEEKLY:

BULLOCK SALE THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE.

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

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TOM ROGERS

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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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Galway/Roscommon Ph: 087-6606043

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

Tel: 094 9542668 www.westernforestry.com

Keep your farm safe

Pictured is the South Roscommon Bowling team, which recently took part in the NDC All-Ireland bowling competition in Tullamore pictured with Sean Finan, Macra National President (with chains). Back (L-r): Diarmuid Murphy, Niall Egan, Mattie Kelly. Front (L-r): Martina Egan, Margaret Kelly, Catherine Egan.

Roscommon Macra at NDC All-Ireland bowling The All-Ireland final of Macra’s National Dairy Council bowling competition took place recently with a team from South Roscommon Macra taking part. The winners of the competition were Knockraha Macra, Seandun, Cork. The national final of the competition was held in Cosmic Bowling in Tullamore on Sunday, 15th November. Hosted by Offaly Macra, the final took place as part of the WR Shaw

Queen of the Land festival, won this year by Kerry Macra’s Christine Buckley, a member of Killeentierna Macra. Macra na Feirme National President, Seán Finan, said, “Bowling is a great way to introduce physical activity in a fun and social way. The NDC Bowling competition is a popular competition in Macra and I’d like to congratulate every team that took part.”

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Roscommon Mart Report Friday, November 20th There were increased numbers of stock on offer at last Friday’s sale. The trade for Bullocks was easier with plainer lots more difficult to sell. Prices for bullocks ranged from an average price of €2.19 per kilo up to a maximum of €3.11 a kilo. The trade for heifers was improved with average prices of €2.35 a kilo and the tops making up to €3.14 a kilo. There was also a better trade for dry cows with lots making up to €2.15 a kilo. Dates for your diary: Friday November 27th– special sale of continental bullocks with 67 pens on offer, also heifers and dry cows. Tuesday December 1st; Usual sale for weanlings and suckler cows at 5 pm. Friday, December 4th: Usual sale for bullocks, heifers and dry cows at 11 am. Tuesday December 8th: Christmas cracker special sale of weanlings and special entry of 20 excellent quality springing heifers. Bookings for weanlings accepted up to 5 pm on Thursday, 3rd December. Friday December 11th: Christmas bonanza special sales of bullocks and heifers. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm on Thursday December 3rd. Tuesday December 15th: Usual sale of weanlings and suckler Cows at 5 pm. Friday December 18th: Usual sale of bullocks, heifers and dry cows at 11 am. Dry cows made from €920 to €1730 per head-Sample prices: Char X 940 kgs €1730, Lim 790 kgs €1700, BBX 655 kgs €1200,

AAX 600 kgs €1175, Lim X 645 kgs €1200, Sh 720 kgs €1020, Char X 585 kgs €970, Lim X 575 kgs €1095, Char X 785 kgs €1410, Lim X 700 kgs €1300. Heifers made from €500 to €1185 over. Sample prices: Lim X 635 kgs €1820, Char X 555 kgs €1700, Char X 600 kgs €1600, Lim X 510 kgs €1600, Lim X 535 kgs €1485, 4 Char X 497 kgs €1345, 3 Char X 471 kgs €1300, Simm X 505 kgs €1320, BBX 515 kgs €1330, Lim X 530 kgs €1465, Lim 490 kgs €1200, Char X 455 kgs €1140, 2 Char X 385 kgs €990, AAX 440 kgs €1055, Simm X 455 kgs €1090. Bullocks made from €510 to €940 over. Sample prices: Char X 770 kgs €1590, BBX 640 kgs €1540, Lim X 590 kgs €1510, Char X 540 kgs €1350, Char X 370 kgs €1150, Lim X 457 kgs €1100, AAX 475 kgs €1080, Char X 490 kgs €1285, Char X 420 kgs €1185, 2 AAX 502 kgs €1110, AAX 465 kgs €1050, Simm X 560 kgs €1210, Simm X 435 kgs €1010, HEX 535 kgs €1100. Tuesday, November 24th There was a good entry of weanlings again this week. Prices are holding firm for quality lots, however plainer type animals are harder to clear. Prices for weanling heifers averaged from €2.60 a kilo up to €3.20 a kilo, while weanling bulls ranged from an average of €2.54 a kilo up to a maximum of €3.32 a kilo. There was a good clearance of lots with farmers very active. Sales continue on Tuesdays for weanlings and suckler cows at 5 pm. Weanling heifers made from €295 to €760

over. Sample prices: Char X 385 kgs €1145, Char X 335 kgs €975, Lim X 350 kgs €900, BBX 330 kgs €860, Lim X 295 kgs €825, Char X 300 kgs €840, Lim X 290 kgs €850, Char X 320 kgs €835, Char X 290 kgs €850, Char X 225 kgs €700, 3 Char X 256 kgs €795. Weanling bulls made from €425 to €750 over. Sample prices: Char X 360 kgs €1110, Char X 365 kgs €1090, Lim X 395 kgs €1030, AAX 370 kgs €940, Lim X 300 kgs €930, Char X 380 kgs €965, BAX 320 kgs €990, Lim 320 kgs €870, AAX 345 kgs €820, BBX 360 kgs €925, Char X 300 kgs €920, SHX 285 kgs €805. Special entry of springers made from €1040 to €1280 and cows with calves at foot made from €1800 to €1810. Sheep Sale There were bigger numbers on offer this week. There was a strong trade for lambs with prices improved from last week. There was similar trade for cast ewes with a full clearance of lots. Sales continue weekly on Wednesdays for lambs, cast ewes at 11 am. Sample prices- Ewe lambs: 47.20 kgs €102, 42.5 kgs €95, 47.50 kgs €108, 54 kgs €114, 37.70 kgs €90.50, 47 kgs €104 Mixed Lambs: 49.60 kgs €110, 50.90 kgs €112.50 47.90 kgs €100, 44.90 kgs €97, 48.40 kgs €111, 41.90 kgs €90 Wether Lambs: 43.80 kgs €97, 49.60 kgs €111,55.50 kgs €114, 38.80 kgs €87, 54 kgs €110, 46.50 kgs €98.50 Ram Lambs: - 56 kgs €114, 41.50 kgs €87, 50.50 kgs €110,

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

FarmingPeople

‘Ming’ urges all farmers to quit IFA < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan

MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan has urged all farmers to quit the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), amid the crisis that has engulfed the organisation. The association has been rocked to its core by a payments controversy over the past week, which forced the general secretary, Pat Smith, to resign and the president, Eddie Downey, to ‘step back’. The IFA has initiated a review of remuneration governance issues within the body after it emerged that, firstly, Mr Smith was paid almost €1 million in the space of two years – €535,000 in 2013 and €445,000 last year. Mr Downey receives €147,000 a

year for his role leading the organisation. However, ‘Ming’ said that he had no confidence that the review would lead to sweeping changes, and urged people to leave the body immediately. “They are going to have to completely and utterly change this organisation,” said the Castlerea man. “Otherwise, I will continue saying what I said when I was asked what the best thing a farmer could do to improve his lot is. I said: ‘Leave the IFA’ – and my advice is still the same. “I am not convinced that things are going to change because we have been told that an internal review is going to take place on remuneration

– then they will consult with the members. “Do they think people are thick? Well, I hope they are not that thick.” ‘Ming’ said that it was “no surprise at all” when it emerged that the top brass of the IFA were paid such inflated salaries. He said: “It is actually a manifestation of what that organisation is about – that some of us should get insane amounts of money and the average farm income then is less than €30,000 a year. “There is an agenda that is driven by people who love an awful lot of money, and it isn’t about farming at all. “In my experience of the IFA, there is a tissue and veil of democracy but, deep down, there is no democracy.”

Roscommon / Longford Area Unit

ORGANIC FARM WALK “Is Organics an option for you” If thinking of becoming an organic farmer, a farm walk will be held on the farm of:

KEVIN KING, STONEPARK, GALWAY ROAD, ROSCOMMON on Friday 27th November 2015 from 11.00 am to 1.00 pm Topics Covered - Farming to Organic standards - Organic Farming Scheme & Grant Aid

FARM WILL BE SIGNPOSTED ON GALWAY ROAD, ROSCOMMON Tom Kellegher Regional Manager Roscommon/Longford

(Serving Farmers for over 56 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

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

Special Sale of Continental X Bullocks

Pictured is Liz Breen, FBD Roscommon, presenting 1st prize to Niall Egan, Ballintubber, Castlerea for the Best AA store heifer without permanent teeth at the Annual AA Show and Sale at Castlerea Mart. Also in photo is John McDermott, Chairman, Castlerea Mart Committee. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Pictured is Joe Healy, Gannons Butchers Castlerea, presenting 1st prize to Tommy Flanagan, Cloonfower, Castlerea for the Best Aberdeen Angus Beef Heifer at the Annual Aberdeen Angus Heifer Show and Sale at Castlerea Mart. Also in photo is John McDermott, Chairman of Castlerea Mart Committee, and Seamus Caulfield, Judge on the day. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Castlerea Mart Report 850 cattle on offer with a dip in quality noticeable this week. Quality lots remain a good trade while the plainer lots have noticed a slight decrease in price. Weanling heifers, in particular, were a very strong trade while the dry cow and heifers were similar to last week. The weanling trade for the bulls was something similar with quality lots fetching the top prices and still the most sought after. Sample prices – heifers: Lm 425kgs €1165, Ch 395kgs €1065, Lm 400kgs €1205, Sim 490kgs €1350, Lim 480kgs €1260, Lim 540kgs €1595, Lm 520kgs €1370, Lm 430kgs €1180. Dry cows: Lim 815kgs €1610, lim 745kgs €1325, RLim 720kgs €1400, Sim 760kgs €1340, AA 725kgs €1040. Cows with calves at foot made from €1310 to €2020 per head. Springers made from €900 to €1670 per head. Weanling bulls: Ch 270kgs €915, Ch 265kgs €845, Lm 360kgs €1135, Ch 350kgs €1070, Lm 460kgs €1110. Weanling heifers: Lim 275kgs €880, Ch 255kgs €850, Ch 305kgs €970, Lim 325kgs €910, Ch 360kgs €995. Bullock sale, Monday 16th November: 270 bullocks on offer with bullocks making from €400 to €840 over their weight with an average of €610 over paid. Demand was strongest for the lighter quality stores with a very good clearance taking place. Sample prices: Ch 480kgs €1305, Lim 460kgs €1195, Ch 540kgs €1385, Lim 510kgs €1315, Ch 605kgs €1450, Lim 650kgs €1460, Ch 560kgs €1370. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart.

Pictured is Michael Webb, Webb’s Butchers Castlerea, presenting 2nd prize to PJ Kenny, Edgeworthstown, Longford for the best AA beef heifer at the Annual AA Show and Sale at Castlerea Mart, also in photo is John McDermott, Chairman of Castlerea Mart Committee. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Roscommon ICSA calls for extension to GLAS II deadline ICSA (Irish Cattle and Sheep Association) Roscommon chairman, Ger Grehan, has warned that as the December 7th deadline for applications for GLAS II looms, consideration must now be given to an extension of this timeline due to difficulties involved in preparing applications. There are up to 13,000 places available and Mr. Grehan also fears that this time around it could be oversubscribed. Farmers with Tier I priority environmental assets and action will get priority. These are mainly farmers with commonages, private natural sites (SACs, SPAs), farmland birds, farmers in high status water areas and organic farmers. Mr. Grehan is seeking a Department of Agriculture commitment that all farmers who apply for the second phase of the scheme will be accepted. The most commonly taken

up measures in GLAS I were low input pastures. This measure has been reduced from 10 hectares to 5 hectares this time. Also hedgerow planting is now gone. “Small to medium size farmers will find it more difficult to maximise the amount of money they can draw down from the various measures because of being limited in the ground area they farm” he said. “Farmers should seriously consider joining this scheme and not be put off by all the negativity, whether it’s three, four or five thousand euro; some may even qualify for GLAS Plus worth an extra €2,000. Farmers badly need the cash boost as some are gone out of REPS up to three years”. Mr. Grehan said he also welcomes the announcement that €23 million which has been earmarked for Hen Harrier designated land.

Tomorrow Friday, November 27th at 11 a.m 67 pens of Bullocks, Also Heifers and Dry Cows All stock must be penned by 10.30 a.m. --------------------------

Weanlings And Suckler Cows Each Tuesday at 5pm -----------Tuesday December 8th Christmas Bonanza Special Sale of Weanlings at 5 p.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Tuesday 1st December, Wednesday 2nd December & Thursday, December 3rd -------------Also Special Entry of 22 Excellent Quality Springing Heifers at 6 p.m. In calf to P.B. Lim Stock Bull – due Feb/March Photos can be viewed on our website -----------------Friday, December 11th at 11 a.m.

Christmas Cracker Special Sales Bullocks and Heifers Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Tuesday 1st December, Wednesday 2nd December & Thursday December 3rd Also Dry Cows -------------Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday – 11.am. ----------------

Farmers Have Hearts Free Heart Health Checks Tuesday next December 1st -2 p.m. to 9 p.m. In association with the Irish Heart Foundation and HSE. BP, Cholesterol, blood glucose, pulse and weight checks, general lifestyle assessment and advice with Irish Heart Foundation nurses Enquiries/bookings contact Mart office 090 6626352 -------------Live streaming of sales in Ring 1 – see link on website or facebook

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Email roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website www.roscommonmart.ie Find us on facebook

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

PropertyPeople Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon Telephone: (086) 6089591

Tenant Purchase Scheme Valuations at competitive rates Contact John Gill on 086 6089591

Convent Road, Roscommon town

Exceptional bungalow on Convent Road Oates Auctioneers are delighted to preseant for sale an immaculate three-bedroom bungalow located in a quiet setting adjacent to Roscommon Church and all town amenities. This beautiful property comprises: an entrance hallway, three bedrooms (master ensuite), kitchen/dining room and a large sitting room with a solid fuel stove. The outside of the property features a a tarmac driveway and a fine landscaped garden. Price region: €150,000. Viewing is highly recommended by the auctioneer and can be arranged by contacting Oates Auctioneers on 0906627878 or by email: info@oates.ie.

Attention houseowners – properties required in the Strokestown area Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are this week seeking houses in the Strokestown area for clients and disappointed underbidders. John Earley, FIPAV commented, “We have experienced a very busy period of house sales over the past number of months with a large volume of residential properties being sold or sale agreed. We have experienced a huge level of enquiry from the USA and the UK due to the strength of the dollar and pound sterling against the euro. “As a result we are now seeking a detached house and a bungalow residence in the general Strokestown area. We offer a comprehensive pre-market analysis, valuation service and one of the largest data bases of potential purchasers in the region to our clients. We advertise in all local and national media and include all our property on four main websites including: daft.ie, propertypartners.ie, myhome.ie and onview.ie.” For further details or to arrange a consultation, please contact either John Earley, FIPAV or David Diffley, MIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090 6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Public houses from €80,000 available Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are this week offering to the market three prime public houses located in county Roscommon with prices starting from only €80,000. John Earley commented to the Roscommon People: “We have experienced a very busy period of sales with the reemergence of significant interest in public house in all areas. The value to be found at present holds excellent business opportunities for the right clients wishing to get into the licenced premises sector. “We presently have three properties in county Roscommon with prices starting at €80,000 for a substantial residential public house in a village setting, a self advertising public house in a busy countryside village from €105,000 and up to €250,000 for a primely located trading house with quality residential accommodation in a prominent town. We now invite enquiry and viewings.” For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley, FIPAV or David Diffley, MIPAV, Property Partners Earley, Stonecourt, The Square, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

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

NEW TO THE MARKET

A SELECT ROADSIDE HOLDING OF DUAL PURPOSE AGRICULTURAL LANDS CONTAINING C. 17.1 ACRES LOCATED AT

Athleague, Co. Roscommon

Final offers invited for prime ﬁlling stations Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are this week inviting final offers for two primely located filling stations located at Athleague Village, Co. Roscommon and Knappagh More adjacent to Westport, Co. Mayo. They are inviting final offer after €150,000 + VAT if applicable for each property to sell. The agents describe the properties as “two primely located and self-advertising trading properties holding huge potential due size and location. Both properties are actively trading and hold huge scope for future development. We now invite final viewings and final offers after €150,000 + VAT if applicable for both properties to sell.”

Kilteevan.

Knockcroghery.

(on the main N5 Tulsk/Ballina route)

For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley, FIPAV or David Diffley, MIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email: jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Westport, Co. Mayo.

Wide range of property and lands new to market with Pat Hughes This week Pat Hughes & Company have new to the market for sale a townhouse located at Abbey Street, Roscommon. The building is in need of total renovation and is currently laid out into two separate units. Pat is accepting every offer in excess of €80,000 for this property. The company also have for sale at Henry Street, Roscommon a large commercial unit with a two-bedroomed apartment on the first floor. Pat has confirmed that they have for sale a circa eight-acre residential farm at Corboley, Knockcroghery. All of the lands are of top quality located only one mile from the village of Knockcroghery. The residence is a three-bedroomed bungalow in need of some modernisation. Pat is accepting every offer in excess of €130,000 for this residence. At Mount Talbot, Co. Galway Hughes & Company have a three-bedroomed residence in need of refurbishment. The residence is situated on the main Galway to Roscommon Road. Pat is accepting every offer in excess of €30,000 for this

DRIMNAGH, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON

property. At Roxboro, Roscommon Hughes & Company have for sale a three bedroomed cottage on a hillside site. The residence is in need of refurbishment but would be ideal for further development subject to planning permission being granted. The property is located less than one mile from Roscommon Town. Also this week Hughes & Company have for sale a large five-bedroomed dormer bungalow located at The Grove, Kilteevan. The residence stands on a circa 0.5 acre site and is finished to a high standard, located less than a quarter of a mile from the village. The accommodation consists of: kitchen cum dining/living room, five bedrooms with one en-suite and two reception areas and a large utility. At Morganstown, Athleague, Hughes & Company are offering for sale circa 53 acres of top quality agricultural land with excellent road frontage a good range of out-offices including horse stables and sand arena. The lands are located less than one mile from the village of Athleague on the main Four Roads to Athleague Road. For further details please contact the office. At Ballymurray, Roscommon Hughes & Company are offering for sale circa 20 acres of agricultural land with a range of out offices, cattle pen and crush with mains water. The lands are located only three miles from Roscommon town on the main Athlone Road. Hughes & Company have for sale a number of round & square bales of hay. They also have 120 bales of top quality silage for sale convenient to Roscommon Town. If you are thinking in buying or selling talk to Hughes & Company and let them advise you – their advice is free. For further details on all properties on offer with Hughes & Company please contact the office on 090-6627003 or email phughes2@eircom.net.

A highly attractive parcel of dual purpose agricultural lands with the benefit of extensive road frontage onto both the main N5 road and also onto a side road. The said lands possess site potential due to location (subject to P/P) and are situated in a highly regarded agricultural district only c. 1.6 km from Tulsk Village. Services include cattle crush, holding pen and water. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers for immediate sale. LEGAL: MESSERS MAHON SWEENEY & CO, ROSCOMMON. 090 66 27350. ------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

A PRIME PARCEL OF ROADSIDE LANDS CONTAINING C. 25 ACRES LOCATED AT

CARRICK, BALLINLOUGH, CO. ROSCOMMON

A prime parcel of lands located convenient to Ballinlough village just off the main N60 Roscommon to Castlebar route. The majority of the said lands are of good quality, dual purpose and are located only c. 1.9 km from the village centre. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers for immediate sale. LEGAL: MESSERS CLAFFEY GANNON & CO, CASTLEREA. 094 96 20007. ------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

A PRIME ROADSIDE PARCEL OF LANDS CONTAINING C. 14.26 ACRES LOCATED AT

KINNITY, FOURMILEHOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON

A roadside parcel of lands located in the renowned farming district of Kinnity. The said lands must be of interest to local farmers wishing to increase their existing holdings and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers for immediate sale. LEGAL: MARIE CONROY, MESSERS MAHON SWEENEY & CO, ROSCOMMON. 090 66 27350. ------------------------------------------------------

SHEDS TO LET

2 number slatted sheds and 1 number dry stock shed to let in the Roscommon/Lanesboro area. Also with the benefit of c. 400 bales of silage that can be purchased if desired. From now until 1st April 2016.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 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 27th to Monday 30th November 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

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

for an appointment for these surgery times.

NEED HELP IN COMPLETING YOUR TAX RETURNS

DOCTOR SURGERY

Eg. Farmers, B&B, Rental Income, help with school grant applications. Contact Margaret on 087 6430717.

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

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

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

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.

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

BOUNCING CASTLES

CARS FOR SALE < FOR SALE: ‘05 Ford Mondeo Dsl. Silver in colour. Great condition, spotlessly clean, runs like new. Taxed until December 2015, NCT until April 2016. Practically new tyres, new parts fitted. €2,000ono. Contact John 086 0859674.

CHIMNEY

ROSCOMMON CASTLES

CHIMNEY CLEANING & REPAIRS

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

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

Phone No: (087) 4136355

BALLYGAR Bouncing Castles Super Slides – Combi Units – Sumo Suits – Activity Trailers (all weather) – Marquee Hire - New Obstacle Courses • Keenest rates • FULLY INSURED

TEL.: (087) 2315448 or (090) 6624797 Find us on facebook BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT FOR COMMUNIONS/CONFIRMATIONS

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 Facebook: www.facebook. com/careersgraceoreilly Opening Hours: 9 am - 5.30 pm, Mon-Fri.

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 < CHIMNEY CLEANING from €35 Industrial Vacuum plus new rotary power system on request. Clean professional job guaranteed. Tel 089 4442609.

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

For appointment: (094) 96 21647 / (089) 4142233 • Home visits • Insoles and Orthotics prescribed

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle, Athlone & Carrick-on-Shannon -------Treating all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only – Tel 087 2982214 Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

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

SOCIAL DANCE CLASSES

DRIVING LESSONS NOEL’S Driving School ADI/RSA Approved Driving Instructor Reg No. 37840

Tuition in Car Car available for test

EDT LESSONS AVAILABLE Contact: Noel Burke Ballintubber

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

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

DOCTORS’ ROTA

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

Contact: 085 1348779

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

CLEANING SERVICES < CARPET AND UPHOLSTERY CLEANING: Carpets dry immediately (25 years experience). Get years longer from your carpets and suite by having them professionally cleaned. Phone John Higgins or Gerard Cuffe at CLEAN & DRY - 086 2328291/087 1689521

SOCIAL DANCING CLASSES Learn to - Jive, Waltz, Quick Step, Slow Waltz & many more. Percy French Hotel, Strokestown starting at 7.30pm every Tuesday. St. Mary’s Hall, Carrick on Shannon every Sunday at 7.30 pm. Line Dancing in The Tulsk Inn every Wednesday at 8.30 pm.

Enquiries to 086 8474744

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

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Classifieds DRIVING LESSONS

DOCKERY’S SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

R.S.A. Approved Driving Instructor Tuition in Car Also 16 seater mini bus

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.

CLEARANCE SALE OF ARCHITECTURAL GATES

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

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

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. < FOR SALE: Round bales of Barley straw, €12 per bale. ALSO round bales of silage, €20 per bale. Contact 0861945562.

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

• Sports Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Indian head Massage • Reiki • Aromatherapy Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon

(087) 9201818 Find us on facebook

CONTACT: 085 2224751 < FOR SALE: Three piece suite 3 + 1 + 1. Excellent condition. Pink in colour. Castlerea area. Tel 087 9610283 after 5pm.

GARDENING

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

JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms

Gift vouchers now available

Car Available for Tests Gift Vouchers

(094) 98 80281/ (087) 2031909

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

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

● 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

HAPPY TAILS BOARDING KENNELS 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

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

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I Cormac Quinn intend to apply for planning permission for the following: (i) the filling of approx. 2 hectares of land to a depth of 1 metre with inert materials to include soil, subsoil, crushed concrete and excavated material (ii) Wheel wash facility (iii) New entrance onto public road (iv) Upgrading of existing boundary fence at Ballymartin Beg, Roscommon, Co Roscommon. The volume of material to be used for filling this ground will be approximately 20,000 metres cubed. The filled area will not exceed the existing road elevation adjacent to the site. Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd., Engineers & Architects, Galway Road, Roscommon, Ph (090)6634421 Fax: (090)663423 Email: info@ collinsboydeng.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying for planning permission, on behalf of Mary Dwyer, to construct an extension to a dwellinghouse, along with all associated alterations to layout and elevations, at Knockarush Townland, Boyle Signed: Mary O’Hara & Associates, Civil Engineering Consultants, Market Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 094 98 61515

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

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

Located at Henry Street

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

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

The local paper!

The planning application may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable costs 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 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We John and Frieda Lawless intend to apply for planning permission for demolition of existing garage and construction of a single storey extension to the side of existing Bungalow with all associated site works and services at Ballydooley Townland, Donamon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: John and Frieda Lawless. 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 at the above office on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Crannaghmore, Summerhill, Athlone, Co.Roscommon I, Joanne Naughton am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct a new detached dwelling house, domestic garage, septic tank/proprietary treatment system, percolation area and all associated site works at the above address. Signed: Joanne Naughton. 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 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

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.

< TO LET: Four bedroom house in Abbeyville, Roscommon. All mod cons, fully furnished, in excellent condition. Professionals only. Tel: 086 8548591. < FOR RENT: 2 double rooms to rent in Roscommon town. €75 per week per room including bills. Tel: 089 4523546. < TO LET: 4 bedroom house, 3 miles from Roscommon Town, Castlecoote Road. Pleasant surrounding, recently renovated. Tel 086 3836415. < TO RENT 4 bedroom house Roscommon Town. All mod cons. Tel 086 3155329.

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

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

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Classifieds SEPTIC TANKS

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

SITUATIONS VACANT < RELIABLE FEMALE CARER REQUIRED to do night duty in lady’s own home. Mainly at weekends. Must be flexible. Roscommon area. Please reply with Cover letter and CV to Box No. 845, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town. < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED: Roscommon Town area for 4 children; 3 school-going and 1 toddler attending playschool, 2 days per week. Required 5 days per week. Light housework. Contact 086 8715833.

‘SUNDAY LUNCH OPPORTUNITY! An exciting new catering opportunity exists for a Sunday lunch trade in a premises close to Roscommon Town. Interested catering contractors should register their interest by posting their details to Box No. 850, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Town. Closing date 30th November 2015. < PERSON REQUIRED to help with childcare. Castlerea town, mornings only. Must have references, full driving licence, own car etc. Tel 087 7998447.

SITUATIONS VACANT < CHILDMINDER AVAILABLE in her friendly, safe and secure home. Ten years experience. Non smoker, full driver’s licence, Garda Vetted. Qualifications include QQI Special Needs Level 6, FETAC Childcare Level 5, Occupational First Aid, IPPA Play and the developing child. References and CV’s available. Knockcroghery, Ballymurray and Roscommon Town area. Tel 086 0327829. < CHRISTMAS TIME IS COMING - I’d like to help you to prepare for it. PreChristmas complete house cleaning. Driver’s licence with own car. Little English. Text 087 7217129 or call 085 7123709. References available.

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

SOULMATES

TUITION

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.

GRINDS IN JUNIOR AND LEAVING CERTIFICATE BUSINESS AND ACCOUNTING Tutoring for college students in Business and Accountancy. Go to www. mcgowanaccountancy. com to download voucher

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

TOM KILDUFF CABS Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

LEAVING CERTIFICATE STUDENTS Would you like to do Accounting or Business as an extra subject? Higher or ordinary levels catered for

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849.

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. WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch, Sycamore and Whitethorn. Good price paid. We are safety certified and insured. Phone: 086 2437376. < TURF FOR SALE in ton bags. 1 mtr cubed. Delivered to Roscommon town and surrounding areas. €50 delivered. Tel: 086-8534011.

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 HACKNEY SERVICE Tommy Gilligan, Roscommon

(086) 8099503

< FOR SALE: 40kg bag of smokeless coal, only €15 per bag, delivered. Contact Tony on 086 0703946. < BAGS OF TURF FOR SALE at €2.50 each. ALSO loads of turf for sale. Tel: 085 7519748. < LAST YEAR’S SHED STORED TURF sold in truck/lorry/trailer loads. Dry, Screened, and delivered. Tel 087 3831953.

HANLEY TURF SALES

JOHN BEATTIE

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

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

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

OIL BOILER SERVICE

ONLY €80 Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 96 31880 087 9100477

DAVID CLOGHER PLUMBING & HEATING • ALL PLUMBING AND HEATING REPAIRS • OIL AND GAS BOILER SERVICING

CONTACT 086 3275919 J&K OVEN CLEANING SOLUTIONS PROFESSIONAL CLEANING OF YOUR OVEN/HOB/ EXTRACTOR. NO MESS. FOR FREE QUOTATION.

Contact Joe on 086 6030063

Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670

Bags of turf for sale in 40kg white canvas bags

BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Contact 086 8803772

USEFUL SERVICES

Glamorous Dogs FUERTY, ROSCOMMON

KESHIA CASEY

Professional Dog Groomer

(087) 2731228 NIALL DALY BLOCKLAYING HOME & MAINTENANCE House extensions, shed, and walls. Brick/block paving new and repair. Patio, fencing, power washing, decking and all aspects of maintenance. Contact: 086 1632989.

VAN AND MAN AVAILABLE FOR: Delivery, collections, house and flat removals.

Contact: 087 6718564 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND DECORATING CONTRACTOR – For all your decorating needs.

Call John 086 4679798 < 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. < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel Tom on 086 0815802. < NIGHT WATCHMAN WITH TRAINED POLICE DOG AVAILABLE: Also house sitting service. Tel: 089 9530397. Who is watching your property?

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

WRESTLING CLUB ROSCOMMON WRESTING CLUB OPENING SOON Unit 4, Business Park, Racecourse Road Roscommon

Contact 0876199909 for further details.

FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 21/11/2015 FIRST PRIZE €60: Owen Hoare, c/o K Hoare SECOND PRIZE €30: Nora Pitman, The Walk THIRD PRIZE €20: Kathleen & Deane, c/o K Hoare 10 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Marie O’Keeffe, c/o K Collins; John F Kerrrigan; Vera Glancy, c/o P Kellys; Eileen Kelly, c/o Breda Healy; Vincent Coyle, Mount Talbot; Rose Beirne, c/o K Hoare; Ria Rose Murray, c/o Murays; Paddy & Catherine Dwyer; Michael O’Dowd, c/o R Walshe; John Corcoran. 10 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Aaron & Kirsty; Breda Healy; Kirsty Dimambzo; Kathleen Collins; Joe & Mickey; Joe Hoare; Kathleen Collins; Kathleen Finan; Kathleen Finan; Kathleen Hoare. TOTAL RECEIPTS €336. TOTAL PRIZES €260.

THANKGIVINGS A PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN NEVER FOUND TO FAIL 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. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. (Make request). O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in this my necessity. There are none than can withstand your power. O, show me here herein you are my mother. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee, (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you publish it and it will be granted to you. Sweet Mother I place this cause in your hands, (3 days). This prayer must be published. E.M.

THANKGIVINGS NOVENA TO SACRED HEART Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for this special favour (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. H.C. THANKSGIVING In Thanksgiving to Jesus, Mary and Saint Michael for my request being answered. J.C. PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE Saint Expedite, my protector, in you I place my hope that my petitions may be granted if they are for my own good. Please ask our Lord, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin for the forgiveness of my sins and the grace to change my life, particularly the grace to have the courage to sit my exams. And I promise to follow your examples and I will recommend your devotion to others. K.D. 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 is. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. K.D. 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. Mc.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. Thanks also to St. Therese, St. Martin and Our Lady. A.T. 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. Thank you also to Saint Expedite for favours granted. M.J.M

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 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

For Professional Advice Contact: Tel: 090

9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email:

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

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

WINDOWS/DOORS SHOWROOM:

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 - Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed

FARMING

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

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 Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness

Gary Jameson

New Buildings & Retroﬁt

2nd Fix Carpentry

Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Munsboro, Roscommon • Fitted Kitchens & bedroom units • Doors, Timber Floors • Stairs

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

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.

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie WINDOW/DOORS

WINDOW AND DOOR REPAIRS • Door Handles • Door Locks • Letterboxes • Window Hinges • Patio Door Repairs • Misted Double • Reseal Windows and Doors • Broken Double Glazed Units Glazed Units

Contact David Martin on (087) 9959417

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 –

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

MAL HEVEHAN Telephone: 086 8100292

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

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892 VETERINARY

Donal Haughey - 086 8210710 www.roscommonwindows.ie

Registered contractor for Home Renovation Incentive Scheme RECYCLING

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

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

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

(086) 0708833/ (090) 66 34426

• SAORVIEW • FREEVIEW

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

CALL NOW FOR APPOINTMENT

• Attic Conversions and all internal woodwork

CLEANING SERVICES • ROSCOMMON

Dalton House, Bawn Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon PHONE: 071-9634729 EMAIL: info@archengtech.com WEB: www.archengtech.com WE SPECIALISE IN: - Architectural Design, 3D Model Imagining & Walkthrough - Planning Applications (Residential, Commercial, Retail) - Supervision of Construction - Design Certifier & Assigned Certifier - Agricultural Planning & Design - Project Management - Building & Conditional Surveys - Engineering Design & Reports, Legal Mapping & Boundary Surveys - Percolation Tests, Structural Reports and Snag Lists - Energy Rating & BER’s

CALL 071-9634729 For any of the above services or to arrange an appointment.

Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon Tel: 0906665555 Fax: 0906627653 • 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

GLASS WORKS

Boyle Glass

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

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

AtYourService CHIMNEY REPAIRS AND SERVICES

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

Telephone: 086 2592002 BUILDING CONTRACTOR

Frank Grehan & Sons Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon Phone 090 66 22230 086 2599836/085 8550051 Email: fgrehan@eircom.net Building & Civil Engineering Contractors

~ For all your building requirements ~ Fully registered for the new building regulations ~ Quotations on request ~ Building for the future

WANTED

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

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

Appointments MARKETING EXECUTIVE Required for leading Wholesale Company based in the midlands We are currently seeking an experienced Business to Business Marketing Executive to oversee, develop and implement marketing initiatives for our company. RESPONSIBILITIES: • Using your communication skills in a creative way to promote Company products • Designing and creating product flyers and brochures • Preparing and delivering marketing plans • Liaising with printers and publishers as required and managing the production of marketing materials such as leaflets, flyers, posters and newsletters, including e-newsletters and website updates. • Attending exhibitions and trade-fairs • Monitoring competitor activity and generating leads for products • Exploring Customer opinions and gaps in the market • Researching Competitors marketing strategies • Assisting in organising exhibitions & Trade-fairs and collecting feedback • Updating website with new products and promotions SKILLS & QUALITIES REQUIRED • Excellent spoken and written communication skills • A creative approach • Good organisation and planning skills • The ability to work well as part of a team • Drive, motivation and enthusiasm • The ability to work under pressure • Attention to detail • Good business sense • A minimum of 5 years’ experience is required in the following areas: - Marketing - Communications - Advertising - Business Management • A knowledge of Graphic Design would be bonus but is not essential.

PLEASE FORWARD RESUME TO: Box Number 849, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon VACANCIES HAVE ARISEN FOR

CARERS

in Fearna Manor Nursing Home, Castlerea Applicants must have FETAC Level 5 FULL-TIME EMPLOYMENT - Day and night duty

Please email CV to fearnamanor@ outlook.ie or post replies to Fearna Manor Nursing Home, Tarmon Road, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

PUBLIC NOTICE I Martin J Flanagan of Dooherty, Four Mile House, Co. Roscommon do hereby apply to the Superintendent in the respective areas for a renewal of registration of Suitability of Premises and also to the Superintendent of the Roscommon Garda station in Roscommon for the suitability of personal fitness under the 1931 Betting Act for the following offices:

Pyramid Bookmakers, Main Street Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim. Pyramid Bookmakers, Chapel Street, Drumshanbo Co. Leitrim. Pyramid Bookmakers, Lower Main Street Mohill, Co Leitrim. Pyramid Bookmakers, Unit 2, The Square, Collooney, Co. Sligo. Pyramid Bookmakers, Bagnalls Shopping Centre, Rochfortbridge, Co. Westmeath.

Athleague, Co. Roscommon ELITE SERVICING REQUIRES AN EXPERIENCED

MECHANIC With proven ability to work with a range of vehicles according to stringent best-practice standards. The right candidate will work to ensure all activities are carried out on time and at an exceptional standard to maintain staff–client relations. The successful applicant will have: • At least three years experience as an auto mechanic proven ability in vehicle electrical systems and fault diagnostics experience • Familiarity with excellent standards of quality control experience of keeping accurate records • Excellent customer service skills We offer rewarding conditions of employment including: • Overtime • Family friendly policies • A commitment to learning and development • Knowledge of day-to-day accounts essential Proof of Qualifications essential ELITE SERVICING ALSO REQUIRES

RECEPTIONIST The successful applicant will have: • 3/4 years experience in an office environment • Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel • Excellent customer service skills • Fluent English essential

For more information call Ian Fitzgerald, owner, on 086 3653023 or send your resume and cover letter to info@eliteservicing.ie

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!

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

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KELLY Michael

BRADLEY Padraig

COYLE PJ

COSTELLO Elizabeth

‘Riverdale’, Castlecoote, Roscommon Who passed away suddenly on 26/11/2014

Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

Lysterfield, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary) Died on 3rd December 2007

16 Circular Road, Roscommon (50th Anniversary)

GANNON Oliver Stonepark, Galway Road, Roscommon Died 1st December 2010 (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of my dear mother, Elizabeth

Michael’s wife Ethna, together with the Kelly and Kilgarriff families, would like to express their sincere thanks and gratitude to everyone who sympathised with them during their sad loss. Thanks to all who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial. Also thanks to those who travelled from the UK and long distances, and also to those who organised and participated in the many Guards of Honour. A heartfelt thanks to our very special friends and wonderful neighbours, and all who called to our home and supported us in many ways over the sad days. A sincere thanks to Fr. John Leogue P.P. who celebrated the Funeral Mass and gave such a beautiful Homily, so true to Michael’s life. Thanks also to Canon Eugene McLoughlin who concelebrated the Mass with Fr. John. Not forgetting Sr. Christina who had everything organised and prepared for the Mass, thank you. To the gravediggers who prepared Michael’s final resting place and did such a beautiful job, thank you all. A big thanks to the Undertaker Henry Hamrock for your professionalism and kindness. Also thanks to our own local choir and the Roscommon Solstice Choir who joined with them for their beautiful singing and contribution to the Funeral Mass. Thanks to everyone who sent a Mass Card, letters of sympathy and those who had a Mass celebrated in their own country. As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this as an acknowledgement of our gratitude for your kindness. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Michael’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday evening 28th November at 6.15pm in Cremully Church, Castlecoote. ‘May his gentle soul Rest in Peace’

SON I once had something that money couldn’t buy, I had a special son but I had to say goodbye. If I were asked one question Why I think the world of you son, I could give a million reasons, And they all would be true. The heartache and sadness may not always show, People say it lessens, But little do they know. Meet me in my dreams son, And talk to me once more, And ease this everlasting pain, That makes my heart so sore. The road without you son is so long, A tear for every mile, But I know one day when I reach the end, You will be waiting for me with a smile.

Love you loads, from your heartbroken mam xxx ~~~~~~~~~~~ BROTHER In our home there is a photo, Of a face more precious than gold, And those who have loved and lost you Your memory will never grow old. Today we look at your photo, And you face so loving and true, No wonder our hearts are breaking, Losing a brother like you. But each day you walk beside us, And when our lives are through, We pray that God will take our hands, And lead us straight to you.

Always in our hearts, loved and remembered forever by your sister Anne, brothers Joseph, Martin and Sean. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 29th November in St. Cecila’s Church, Curraghroe at 10am.

Just a prayer from the family who loved you, Just a memory fond and true. In our hearts you will live forever, Because we thought the world of you.

Remembered always by his wife Nora and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church Curraghboy on Saturday 28th November at 8pm.

HEALY Joseph Cooltigue, Fourmilehouse, Roscommon Died 21st August 2015 The wife and family of the late Josie Healy, wish to sincerely thank all those who sympathised with them on Josie’s death. We would like to thank all those who sent Mass Cards and Enrolments, letters of sympathy and called personally to his home and those who travelled long distances for his Removal and Funeral. We would like to thank the people who helped to support Josie to remain in the happiness of his own home and especially our wonderful neighbours for their many visits and for being so supportive at the time of his death. A special thanks to Fr. Browne for being with us on the morning of Josie’s death, for his many visits over the past two years and for his lovely words at the Funeral Mass. Thanks also to the choir, Mass Servers and Eucharistic Minister. Also to the people who did the catering in the Community Centre on the evening of the Removal. Thanks to Dr. John Keenan and the staff at the Medical Centre for their care over the years of Josie’s long life. Thanks to Tom and Pat Smyth, Funeral Directors, for their professionalism and kindness shown in handling the Funeral arrangements and to the gravediggers and those who helped prepare Josie’s final resting place. This is to acknowledge that all your support and kindness has been greatly appreciated. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

So much in life has changed So much in life is new But one thing never changes Is the love we have for you Each of us in our own special way Have loving thoughs of you today.

Loved and remembered by Martina, Jimmy, Jude and Sinead. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

COSTELLO Elizabeth Out of our lives, You may have gone, But in our hearts you will always belong. Time passes, Memories stay Never forgotten especially today.

Loved and remembered by Noel, Kathey and family. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We miss your smile, Your joking ways, We miss the things you used to say. Thinking of you is easy, We do it every day, But missing you is a heartache, That never goes away.

Missing you always, from your loving wife Eileen and family Olivia, Declan, Darach, Kieran, Evelyn and Jason, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 28th November at 10.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

CARR Michael Mote Park, Roscommon (25th Anniversary)

COSTELLO Elizabeth

Loved and remembered by your daughter Carmel, son-in-law Joe, Anna Marie and Joseph.

MIDDLETON Josie and Jack

In loving memory of Josie Middleton, who died on 14th November 2007 and Jack Middleton, who died on 15th November 1991

DONNELLAN Frank

Taughshane, Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon (12th Anniversary)

Formerly of St. Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon Town Who passed away on 8th October 2015

In loving memory of Johnny who died December 1st 2003

Frank’s family would like to express our sincere gratitude to all who sympathised and supported us on our sad loss. We would like to extend our deepest thanks to extended family and good friends who travelled long distances to attend Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial and all who sent Mass Cards, Mass Enrolments, letters of sympathy and floral tributes, etc. We would also like to thank the medical staff at both U.C.H.G and the South Infirmary Hospital Cork. Sincere thanks to Tom Smyth, Funeral Director, for their professionalism and guidance. Thank you also to the gravediggers for preparing Frank’s final resting place. A special word of thanks to the choir who sang, the priests who concelebrated Mass, especially Frank’s cousin Fr. David Donnellan. Thank you to those who provided music at the grave, Mike and Donie, The Mulryan family for the Month’s Mind. As Frank was a talented singer and musician himself, a special mention for two of his lifetime friends and fellow musicians, Billy and PJ. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

Memories are precious They don’t fade away We think of you always Not just today.

Remembered always by Anne, Jacinta, Caroline, David. Anniversary Mass in Church of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads on Tuesday December 1st at 7.30pm.

PADDEN Michael .J. (Jody)

(50th Anniversary) In loving memory of my dear mother Elizabeth To us you were someone special, Someone set apart, Your memory will live forever, Engraved within our hearts.

NAUGHTON Johnny

In loving memory of my dear son Michael, who died on November 13th 1990 RIP Time may hide the sadness Like the smile that hides the tears But memories hold you Despite the passing of the years.

Loved and remembered always, mammy. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A special smile A special face A special brother We can’t replace.

Sadly missed by your brothers John, Ultan, David, Francis and sisters Teresa and Ann. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 28th November at 7pm in Knockcroghery Church.

Celtic Avenue, Roscommon and formerly of Ballina (16th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Jody, who died December 2nd 1999. R.I.P. Deep are the memories, Precious they stay No passing years Can take them away.

Sadly missed by his loving wife Kathleen and family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 5th December 2015 at 10.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon

Will those who think of them today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and missed by Pat, Catherine and Mary and son-in-law Liam. Anniversary Mass in Knockcroghery Church on Friday 27th November at 7pm.

memorial stationery from

For brochure and sample pack call:

Athlone Road, ROSCOMMON 090 66 27500

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

SportsPeople This weekend’s action

Horses for

courses by Tom Red

Racing this afternoon is at Thurles in Co Tipperary where they hold a national hunt card with tape away for the first at 12.20pm. Tomorrow evening action is on the all weather at Dundalk with stalls opening for the first at 6.05pm. Saturday sees the first day of the Fairyhouse winter Festival off at 12.10pm with 2 Grade B races worth €50,000 each, the Ballyhack Handicap Chase and the Temple St Hospital Handicap Hurdle. Sunday racing starts at 12.40pm with 3 Grade 1 races the Royal Bond Novice hurdle, the Hatton’s Grace Hurdla and Drinmore Novice Chase supported by the opening Grade Juvenile Hurdle. At Fairyhouse get along early as the best race of the day could be the opening Grade 3 Juvenile Hurdle with 6 of the 8 entries having already visited the winners enclosure. Best watched as are all the races especially the 3 Grade 1 races. In the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle, the Cheltenham Champion Hurdle runner up, Arctic Fire, heads the 10 entries remaining and Willie Mullins’ charge could be joined by stable companions Petite Parisienne, a dual Grade 1 winner last season, and the long absent Clondaw Court. Noel Meade’s Monksland is entered but is also in the Drinmore. Willie Mullins has 4 of the eight left in the Royal Bond Novice Hurdle, Thomas Hobson, Long Dog, Bachasson and Gangster. The selection will face Gunnery Sergeant, Roman Gold, Baily Cloud and Archive. Punchestown winner No More Heroes represents Gordon Elliott in the Drinmore where he will meet Outlander from Wil-

lie Mullins’, Colin Bowe’s recent Grade 2 Punchestown winner Shantou Flyer, last weekend’s Gowran Park winner, Monksland along with 5 others. Highlight of the weekend cross channel is the Newbury Hennessey Gold Cup with a field of 20 including 4 from Ireland, First Lieutenant from Mouse Morris’s yard and the Willie Mullins’ trio of Vaseur Lido, Ballycasey and Urano. Gold Cup holder and top weight Coneygree misses the race after a poor workout earlier in the week and there will be a 9lb lift in the weights. Irish trained Wicklow Brave, Willie Mullins, and Identity Theif, Henry de Bromhead were supplemented to the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle at a cost of £4,500 each. They join Champion Hurdle second Arctic Fire, who will probably stay at home. Irving, the winner of a £100,000 hurdle at Haydock on Saturday, could make a quick reappearance, while Nicky Henderson has Haydock runner-up Top Notch, Hargam and Sign Of A Victory engaged.

Weekly Review Sir Des Champs made an impressive winning return to the track last Thursday at Thurles. Robbie Hennessey’s Rubi Light looked a winner for most of the 6 runner race turning in with a 15l lead but Bryan Cooper, on Sir Des Champs, wore him down to lead over the last. The Gigginstown horse was 2¾l to the good at the winning post with Lyreen Legend 12l back in 3rd. What a day for 16 year old Jack Kennedy on Sunday at Navan where he rode a treble from 3 rides, all for Gordon Elliott. Starting with Baroque Style in the 2m handi-

Riverside City, in the centre, alongside Georges Conn, No 10, and the departing Ballychorus at the last.

cap hurdle, he followed up in the feature race becoming the youngest jockey to win the €100,000 Troytown Chase on the J.P. McManus owned Riverside City beating stablemate Georges Conn, under Luke Dempsey, by 1¾l. Jack rounded off a great day by completing the treble on Prince Of Scars in the 2m 7f handicap hurdle.

This Week’s News

Former jockey 23 year old Darren Egan from Co Longford has been disqualified by the disciplinary panel of the British Horseracing Authority. He was found guilty of corruption for stopping 2 horses in 2013 that were laid on the machine by Philip Langford who was also disqualified. I have said it before, laying a horse to lose in a race against the field is a lot easier than

backing it to beat the field, an invitation to skulduggery and should not be allowed. There will be an additional meeting at Punchestown on the 10th Dec. replacing the Wexford meeting lost to the weather on Tuesday 9th Nov.

Point to Point Corner There are only 2 meetings this weekend, both in the south on Sunday, at Kilmoganny in Kilkenny with first away at midday and ½ an hour earlier at 11.30 in Ballindenisk in Cork. American, winner of the 4-Y-O maiden at Rockfield last year, won the 2m 5f Novice Hurdle at Ascot on Saturday. He is now trained in England by Harry Fry and was ridden by Barry Geraghty.

GAA News

Gate revenue on the rise in Roscommon

Gate revenues at club championship matches are on the rise in Roscommon. The Senior Football Championship Final played at Dr. Hyde Park earlier this year and won by Clann na Gael (pictured above) was the biggest earner.

Kilmore kill off Oran to land O’Gara Cup King and Moffatt League Division 2 / O’Gara Cup Final

KILMORE ORAN Kilmore, who were relegated from the senior football championship earlier in the year, finished the season with some consolation and some silverware too when they defeated Oran in Rockfield in the final of the O’Gara Cup last Sunday. This is a significant win for Kilmore as they are now back in the O’Rourke Cup

0-10 0-7 for 2016 and they won this title, which they last won 35 years ago in 1980. Oran were the better side early on and points from Adrian Cassidy, Ross Earley and Micheal Gunning saw the home side into a handsome lead. Then Kilmore opened their account through Dermot Foley, and they quickly

followed that with another point from Dara Feeley. In the 19th minute the sides were level when John Gannon pointed a free. The same player pointed another free in the 21st minute to give Kilmore the lead for the first time and then points from Dara Feeley and John Donohue made it 0-6 to 0-3 at halftime for the visitors. Oran began the second half with a Colm Mahon point and then when Michael Gunning converted a free there was only one in it. Kilmore stretched their lead with a John Gannon free but

the game was now very tight and there were few scores. Kevin Caslin fisted over a point with 7 minutes to go and then a John Donohue free saw Kilmore ahead by four with five minutes left. Oran staged a late rally and points from Michael Gunning and Ciaran Casey left two in it with the game slipping into injury-time. But it was Kilmore who got the final score of the game when John Gannon scored a close range free in injury time. Kilmore: O Burke; M Connellan, J Sharkey, L Caslin; G Connellan, C Garvey, K

Caslin (0-1); D Foley (0-1), J Garvey; B Connellan, A McEvoy, J Gannon (0-4); R Caslin, J Donohue (0-2), D Feeley. Subs: C Carney for B Connellan, B Connellan for Feeley. Oran: M Whyte; J Concannon, K Concannon, J Casey; A Cassidy (0-1), D Beirne, M Dwyer; C Mahon (0-1), G Keenan; P McCormack, T Featherston, R Earley (0-1); M Gunning (0-3), C Kenny, K Whyte. Subs: J Gunning for Cassidy, E McGreevy for K Whyte, J Garvey for Keenan, C Casey (0-1) for Earley. Referee: Brendan Beirne.

There was positive news on the financial front at last Thursday’s meeting of Roscommon GAA County Board with a report from Treasurer Joe Gilligan showing that gate revenue for club championship matches for the year to date stood at €228,000; an increase of €40,000 compared to 2014 and an increase of €70,000 compared to 2013 figures. The highest income, as one would expect, was from the Hodson Bay Hotel Group Senior Football Championship Final between Clann na nGael and Padraig Pearses which took in €36,000, the largest in many years. The family discount voucher scheme for the final proved to be very popular and will be extended in the future. The Treasurer also reported that Tom Hunt of Rangers Pipelines has increased his commitment to Gaelic games in the county and that the board, in conjunction with Club Rossie, were in talks regarding a number of sponsorship agreements and hoped to announce details early in the New Year.

Kilkenny set to take Minor reins Kieran Kilkenny was formally ratified as Roscommon Minor football team manager at the November meeting of the County Management Committee. The St. Brigid’s clubman previously led the Roscommon Ladies team to a National Football League Division 4 title and an All-Ireland Intermediate Semi-Final appearance and will be assisted in his new role by Ballinameen’s Brian Costello and Niall Kilcrann of Kilglass Gaels with a third selector to be confirmed shortly.

South Roscommon boundary fear At a recent county board meeting, the possible absorption of Monksland, Bealnamulla and other parts of South Roscommon into the Co Westmeath Local Government area was a great cause for concern among delegates due to the possible loss of a large playing population to South Roscommon clubs and the county team. The town boundary of Athlone is one of the localities currently under review by a committee appointed by the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government Alan Kelly. In addition to the impact on Gaelic games in the county it is believed that a movement of the boundary would have an impact on local services due to the loss of population and the loss of income to Roscommon County Council from commercial rates.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

SportsPeople

Handball

Tully powers to victory once more Fiona Tully (Convent of Mercy, Roscommon) continued her fantastic run when she became 2nd Level Colleges Senior Singles All-Ireland champion, with a great victory over arch rival Aoife Holden (Greenan College, Co. Kilkenny) last Saturday. Held in rather Arctic conditions in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, the two girls served up a terrific match, full of very entertaining rallies and clinical killing. Fiona took a tough first 15-8, but as is now customary, she lost focus in the second, going ‘kill happy’ and losing it 15-12. However, as she has proved many times, when the game is there to be

won Fiona knows how to finish it off and although Aoife probably played better than ever, that little difference in class was always evident and was enough to take the St. Coman’s star to a 15-9 third game win. It was Roscommon v Kilkenny again when Gareth Delaney (Roscommon Community College) came up short in his bid to retain the Intermediate title won by his schoolmate Michael Egan last year. Gareth lost to Jack Holden (Greenan College), a brother of the aforementioned Aoife, and who coincidentally had lost to Egan in last years’ final and also recently beaten Dylan Hanley in the

U-14 All-Ireland final. Unfortunately Gareth never got his serve going, consistently hitting it too low allowing Holden to return comfortably and that was really the story of the match. Holden was far more controlled, and while Gareth tried very hard, the Kilkenny youngster was generally in charge, winning 15-5, 15-5. Roscommon CBS duo Dylan Hanley and Magomed Yakhyaev were up against it in their Junior Doubles semi-final, where they took on Omagh CBS pair Lorcan McBride and Anton Fox. McBride is a former World champion and Fox has

won a number of All-Ireland titles. In the early exchanges both sides battled on very even terms and a long encounter looked likely, but eventually the power and size of the bigger Tyrone lads took its toll on the smaller Roscommon pair and they ground out a keenly contested 15-7, 15-9 victory. In the long overdue 40x20 U-14 ‘B’ Connacht final, St. Coman’s Peter Kirwan lost to Mayo’s Canice Bennett 15-5, 15-1. Playing in Carnacon, Co. Mayo last Friday, Peter never got to grips with the much slower court and lost without ever showing what he is capable of.

Darts

McDermott’s take control following a weekend of great darts The sixth round of The Hannon’s Hotel sponsored Roscommon Darts League was played this past weekend with some great darts on show. The following were the results: McDermott’s 4 The Forge 3, Ned’s Bar 5 Flanagan’s 2, An Bothar Rua 5 The Hatch 2, Creaton’s 4 Hollywood 3. After six rounds McDermott’s lead the league on 24 points from The Forge in second place on 23. The Hatch, 19 points, and An Bothar Rua, 17 points, complete the top four spots. Just outside the top four are Charlie’s on 15 points and Ned’s on 14 points while The Hollywood, 13 points, Flanagan’s and Creaton’s both on 11 points, make up the bottom three. Round 7 fixtures: Charlie’s v Ned’s Bar, The Hatch v McDermott’s, Flanagan’s v Creaton’s, The Hollywood v An Bothar Rua.

Concannon makes semis in Sligo This past weekend saw the INDO Grand Prix weekend being held in the Great Southern Hotel Sligo. There were good runs for a number of Roscommon players. Gary and Thomas Concannon both made it to the last 32 while David Concannon made it all the way to the semi-finals before losing out to Mick McGowan on a narrow 5-4 scoreline.

Kearney Memorial Cup One of the highlights of the Roscommon darts calendar will take place this weekend as The Kearney Memorial Cup will be held in Flanagan’s of Castleplunkett on Sunday (29th). Entry is €10, while prize money will be based on money in/money out plus sponsorship money. The format will be best of 5x501. The draw will take place at 3.30 pm with games at 4 pm. Entry is limited to Roscommon players only. Contact Padraig on 086- 3880083 for more details.

Kenny Cup The annual Kenny Cup will take place this year in Creaton’s of Loughglynn. The event has been provisionally set for December 6th. More details to follow in next week’s paper.

Pool Roscommon Pool League Cup: The Lifebelt 4 Bothar Rua 3, Charlie’s 4 Silver Eel 3, Sportsman’s 1 Foxe’s 6, Kenny’s: no game. Shield: Charlie’s 6 Eddie’s 3, Silver Eel 6 Earley’s 3, The Central 7 Sorohan’s 2, Foxe’s 5 Farrell’s 4, Ned’s 4 The Forge 5.

Roscommon Town & District Pool League Results: Red Parrot 3 Hollywood 5, PJ’s 3 Railway Bar 5, Larry’s 4 Rattigan’s 4, Dalton’s 3 Claypipe 5. Fixtures: Railway Bar v Holly Tree, Rattigan’s v Red Parrot, Claypipe v PJ’s. Dalton’s v Larry’s.

Elphin ease to victory over Ballinameen King and Moffatt League Division Four Final ELPHIN

1-15

BALLINAMEEN

1-5

Elphin were the comfortable winners of the division four league title at Orchard Park last Sunday. Elphin were in command from the word go and they led by 09 to 0-4 at half-time. The game was then put beyond the reach of Ballinameen when Aidan Murray scored an Elphin goal mid-way through the second half. Ballinameen did score a late goal from Mark Casey but it was of consolation value only. Best for Elphin were: Gerry Cregg, Shane Beirne, John Sweeney, Austin Kielty and Martin McCaffrey. For the losers; Liam Kelly, Eoin Keaveney and Gerry McDermottroe were most prominent. Elphin: D Feeley; D Lee, J Sweeney, S Beirne; N Lenehan, R Beirne, L Mollahan; C Sweeney,

B Neary; M McCaffrey (0-3), G Cregg (0-8), D Beirne (0-1); A Kielty, D Hynes, A Murray (1-3). Subs: C Beirne for Mollahan, Cormac Beirne for Neary, J Beirne for Hynes, C Fox for D Beirne, P Kelleher for McCaffrey, J King for Murray. Ballinameen: J McDermott; I Finneran, J McDermott, P Cryan; M Keane, E Keaveney, D Connaughton; A Cunningham. A Beirne; P Brehony, F McDermott, G McDermottroe (0-3); L Kelly (0-1), P Keane (0-1), J Tansey. Subs: M Ward for Cunningham, A Harrington for Keane, M McDermot for Brehony, A Cunningham for Ward, M Casey (1-0) for Connaughton, J Kearins for Beirne. Referee: T Bruen.

GAA Results Pictured are the recent St. Aidan’s Scór na nÓg participants.

Dominic’s dominate Scór deciders Last Sunday, the Dean Crowe Theatre played host to the Roscommon GAA Scór na nÓg Championship Finals and a large audience was treated to an afternoon of top class entertainment provided by young GAA members from clubs all over the county. The competitions were keenly contested throughout the varied programme and a wonderful atmosphere of celebration and rivalry ensued as the destination of county titles was decided. In the Rince Foirne, St. Dominic’s A team prevailed despite the gallant efforts of St. Aidan’s, St. Dominic’s B and St. Croan’s. St. Aidan’s Katie Heneghan proved a very popular winner in the Recitation. Her extract from Angela’s Ashes saw off the challenge of Muireann O’Brien from St. Croan’s, Eoin Halpin of St. Barry’s and Patrick Mulloolly of St. Dominic’s. Next up was the Set Dancing, where St. Dominic’s A, Elphin, Kilmore and St. Dominic’s B battered the floor with great aban-

don and in the end the Knockcroghery girls, St. Dominic’s A, emerged as winners. Another highlight of the night was the Léiriú Stáitse competition. All groups turned in excellent performances with stories based on various comical themes. St. Dominic’s B team were awarded the coveted county crown defeating Tulsk and St. Dominic’s B. Elphin enjoyed a comprehensive win in the Tráth na gCeisteanna competition beating St. Dominic’s A, Boyle and St. Dominic’s B. They will now go straight to the All-Ireland Final Tráth na gCeisteanna Boird at the end of January. The Solo Singing discipline saw Kilbride’s Aoife McLaughlin retain the title she won last year with her rendition of “The Winding River Roe” and in doing so she overcame Sarah Keane from Elphin, Laura Mannion of St. Aidan’s and Strokestown’s Claire Brogan. The Ceol Uirlise proved a very entertaining affair with all groups turning in lively performances. Kil-

bride A emerged victorious here at the expense of St. Michael’s, Kilbride B and St. Croan’s. The last item of the afternoon, in the reshuffled running order, was the Ballad Group competition and St. Dominic’s A, Kilbride and St. Aidan’s all gave fantastic performances but it was St. Dominic’s B that grabbed the accolade. The winners received their trophies from Roscommon GAA Chairperson Michael Fahey. The newly crowned county champions will now go forward to represent their clubs and Roscommon in the Connacht Finals, which will be held in the Town Hall, Claremorris on Saturday, December 12th. Coiste Scór would like to thank the Dean Crowe Theatre and all of the venues that hosted rounds of the competitions. We would especially like to thank all of the clubs, competitors and officials for their efforts over this year’s competition and we wish our winners all of the best of luck and we hope more Roscommon clubs can qualify for the National Finals.

King & Moffatt Group Division 2 / O’Gara Cup Final Kilmore 0-10 Oran 0-8 King & Moffatt Group AFL Division 2 Relegation Play-off Clann na nGael B 1-16 St. Aidan’s 2-10 King & Moffatt Group AFL Division 3 / Tansey Cup SemiFinal Eire Óg 2-10 St. Brigid’s B 0-14 King & Moffatt Group AFL Division 3 Relegation Play-off St. Michael’s 1-12 St. Barry’s 0-4 King & Moffatt Group AFL Division 4 Final Elphin B 1-15 Ballinameen 1-5 King & Moffatt Group AFL Division 4 Relegation Play-off Strokestown B 3-12 St. Joseph’s 3-4 Hodson Bay Hotel Group Junior B Football Championship Quarter-Final Clann na nGael C 1-8 Oran B 1-7 Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 A Football Championship Quarter-Final Clann na nGael 1-12 St. Brigid’s 0-8 Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 B Football Championship SemiFinal Western Gaels 2-13 Tulsk Lord Edwards 1-12 Dermot Hughes Cars U-21 C Football Championship SemiFinal Michael Glavey’s 5-14 St. Aidan’s 1-3

Camogie Result AIB All-Ireland Junior Club Camogie Final Johnstownbridge (Kildare) 2-10 Athleague 0-7

GAA Fixtures Saturday, November 28th Hodson Bay Hotel Group Junior B Football Championship Semi-Final At Kiltoom: Michael Glavey’s B v Clann na nGael C. 7 pm The Pepper Mill Minor Hurling Championship Semi-Final At Athleague: Four Roads v Padraig Pearses. 2 pm Sunday 29th November King & Moffatt Group AFL Division 3 / Tansey Cup Final At Ballinlough: Michael Glavey’s v Éire Óg. 2 pm Dermot Hughes Cars U-21 A Football Championship SemiFinal At Knockcroghery: Strokestown v Clann na nGael. 2 pm Dermot Hughes Cars U-21 B Football Championship SemiFinal At Tulsk: Elphin v Tulsk. 2 pm Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 B Football Championship Quarter-Final At Ballyleague: Kilmore-Shannon Gaels v St. Faithleach’s. 2 pm

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

SportsPeople

SICK AS A PARROT/OVER THE MOON ROSCOMMON & DISTRICT LEAGUE NEWS

Rossies held by Galway as Ballaghaderreen hit MD for ﬁve

The Roscommon & District League representative side are still on course to make the play off stages of the Oscar Traynor Cup competition following a 1–1 draw with the Galway League at the Curragh Grounds Ballinasloe on Saturday evening. Overall both sides created few real chances with well organised defences and two very good goalkeepers playing major roles in the outcome. Noel Fallon, Enda Kenny, Des Hope, Cormack Clogher, Andy Higgins, James Coyne and Shane Duffy were the outstanding performers for the home side while James Keane, Colm O’Donavan and Gerry Dolan played well for the Galway side. In the first half there were few shots on target with Darragh Concannon and Andy Higgins coming closest to scoring for the Roscommon and District League. The Galway League took the lead with thirteen minutes played in the second half. Following a quick break,

Galway caught the home defence out of position and punished them clinically. Gerry Dolan got past Peter Keighery on the right wing and his cross to the far post was volleyed home by substitute Jason Finn. With thirty-four minutes played Andy Higgins burst through the Galway defence and was hauled back on the edge of the penalty area. Darragh Concannon gave the Galway keeper no chance with a sweetly struck freekick into the bottom corner. Despite their best efforts neither team could get a winner in the closing stages and it’s all to play for this weekend. In the Premier Division, Dylan Edwards scored all of the goals as Ballaghaderreen hammered MD Town 5-0 at home. Edwards was unusually quiet in the first half with just the solitary strike, but he soon improved on that lacklustre showing and added four more after the break. St. John’s victories are like buses in

Lecarrow, they’re now coming along almost once a week. The harbour men (it’ll stick!) enjoyed a 1-0 win away to Cloonfad with David McDonnell on target from the spot. In the Norio’s Takeaway Division 1, Shiven Rovers remain top following a 7-1 demolition of Rahara Rovers away from home. Eric Walsh with a brace and then one goal each from Shane Harkin, Jack Daly, Aidan McInerney, Michael Doyle and Francis Kilcommins for the visitors. Gareth Mulligan with the not so consoling goal for Rahara. It turned out to be a great weekend for Shiven Rovers as second placed Brazukas were beaten 5-3 at home by Ballinasloe. A Liam Lynch hattrick and one each for Greg Keighery and David Nee for the visitors. Vando, Marcelo and Marcos responding for the Brazilians. Glen Celtic are firmly in the promotion hunt after they beat Ballaghaderreen 2-1 in Glenamaddy. Aaron

Hynes and Ryan McHugh gave Celtic a 2-0 half-time lead before Tom Ward pulled one back for the visitors. In Division 2, leaders MD Town saw their lead at the top cut to four points as they went down 2-1 away to second placed Lough Harps. The leaders will wonder how they managed to secure defeat from the jaws of victory, however. Rory Maloney gave the Milltown Dunmore side the lead after 77 minutes, they then won a penalty in the 84th minute. Step forward Harps’ ‘keeper Rory Mannion, who brilliantly saved the spot kick before late goals from Tiernan Murphy and Sean Burke turned the game on its head and gave Lough Harps all three points. Moylough 79 are in third following their comprehensive 5-1 win over St. John’s Athletic B. Marcus Finn with a hattrick, Michael Foley and Michael Kelly with one each for Moylough. Owen Cattigan with the consolation for St. John’s.

Soccer Fixtures Friday, 27th November The Herald Premier Division (8 pm) Cloonfad United v Moore United. E. Deering Sunday, 29th November Oscar Traynor Trophy (2 pm) At Killyan Newbridge (Shiven Rovers): Roscommon & District League v Clare League. S. O’Brien The Herald Premier Division (12 pm) St. John’s Athletic v MD Town. Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (12 pm) Loughglynn United v Ahascragh United. R. Stokes Rahara Rovers v Kilkerrin United. M. Hachett Brazukas v Glen Celtic. J. McCrossan Ballaghaderreen FC B v Ballinasloe Town B. G. Kelly Killeen Sports Ground Division 2 (12 pm) Lough Harps v Roscommon United. G. Carmody CP Ajax v KC Celtic. W. Stokes Moore United B v St. John’s Athletic B. A. Gonclaves Moylough 79 v Cloonfad United B. E. Collins

This week’s Awards… Game of the weekzukas.

r Bra Ballinasloe’s 5-3 win ove zilian-ing the The Galway side out Brareal word but Brazilians. OK that’s not a you know what I mean!

Performance of the week who

a man Dylan Edwards is clearly Scoring all of knows where the goal is. ive, scoring your team’s goals is impressen they win all of your team’s goals wh 5-0 is just greedy.

Storm of the weeletkmost He Barney. Barney was grand. of the football go ahead.

The Djimi Traore award for awkward legs la.

m Manga Manchester City’s Eliaquido what this to l skil e uin gen s It take man did.

Golf

Boyle Golf Club Last Sunday’s turkey voucher was won by Jim Mooney with 23 points, second was Michael Simon with 21 points. Competitions this week are the weekly 9-hole Monday–Saturday and the turkey voucher next Sunday. At the club AGM last Sunday men’s captain Ross Andrew was elected chairperson of the management committee for 2016. Brendan Gaffney was elected club secretary and Michael Gilmartin was elected club treasurer. A review of activities for 2015 was given by the captain and secretary and a financial report was given by the treasurer. Thanks to all who work on committees, play on club teams, help to maintain the course or assist the club in anyway. Thanks to Vincent, Mary and Patrick for looking after the catering and bar. Thanks to Charlie for his work as grounds man. Thanks to all the members for supporting the club with membership, competition fees, fundraising or taking part in the draw. Special thanks to all our sponsors particularly those who sponsor Open Week. Outgoing chairperson Michael Rush said it was a great honour to serve the club and he thanked the members for their great support. He also thanked the outgoing lady captain for her great work. He finished by wishing incoming captains Ross Andrew and Tish Perry and club members the best of luck for 2016. Ross Andrew thanked Michael Rush for nominating him and he looked forward to working with the new lady captain and the club committees in 2016. The 2016 management committee are: Ross Andrew (chairperson), Tish Perry (lady captain), Brendan Gaffney (secretary), Michael Gilmartin (treasurer), Michael Rush, Sandra McCrann, Gerry O’Hara, Mary O’Hara, Willie Tiernan, Vincent Egan, Patrick Egan, Liam Whyte, Susan O’Mahoney, Jonathan Egan, Liz Dwyer, Moira Egan and Liam Mullaney. The Trustees of the club are Claire Cryan, Vincent Egan and Pat Brogan.

Roscommon Golf Club After a two week break due to the adverse weather conditions the men’s Sunday competition resumed again. The winner (over 16 holes) was Eamonn Smyth with a score of 35 points (back 7). In second place was Charlie Farrell with 35 points. The ladies weekly 9-hole competition fell victim to the weather. The winner of the men’s over 55’s competition was Des Bruen. Michael Lennon was in second place with Willie Weldon in third place. The winner of the Senior Ladies was Mary Lennon with Geraldine Hoban in second place, Mary O’Connor was third and in fourth place was Nuala Mc Donagh.

Athlone Golf Club

Roscommon & District League will look to book their place in the next round of the Oscar Traynor Cup when they take on the Clare League this Sunday in Roscommon.

Concannon: Rossies conﬁdent ahead of group showdown This Sunday, the Roscommon & District League take on the Clare League in a must win Oscar Traynor Cup Competition group game. Roscommon have played out two consecutive 1-1 draws against Mayo and Galway Leagues respectively in what has been a very Republic of Ireland circa 1990 start to their campaign so far. They know, however, that anything less than three points will result in their exit from this year’s competition. The Clare League, on the other hand,

have four points from their opening two games having beaten Mayo 2-0 and also drawing with Galway 1-1. The banner men will be confident going into this titanic battle, but Roscommon have more than enough talent and home advantage this weekend, which will provide some comfort. Roscommon & District joint manager, Eddie Concannon, was in upbeat form when I spoke to him this week. “We are basically full strength, couple of question marks over lads working but we should be OK. We’re playing

at home so we have to be confident.” Speaking about the different permutations around the final group game, Enda was adamant that Roscommon would be focusing on their own performance, “It’s in our own hands, we can’t rely on other results. We played Mayo at this stage last year but we’re a lot stronger this time around and confident we can handle them.” Roscommon & District League will look to book their place in the next stage this Sunday at 2 pm at Shiven Rovers home pitch near Newbridge.

Congratulations to our new Club President, Michael Cleary, who took office at the AGM on Friday, 20th November. Best wishes for the year ahead, Michael. Carty’s Christmas Hamper 21st/22nd November-1st Nett: Kevin Maguire (14) 38 points, Class A 1st: Paddy Egan (7) 34 points Bk6, Class A 2nd: Thomas O’ Connor (+3) 34 points, Class B 1st: Tom Dolan Jnr. (12) 35 points, Class B 2nd: Denis Earley (14) 33 Points Bk3, Class C 1st: Noel O’Carroll (21) 34 points Bk3, Class C 2nd: Harry McElroy (24) 34 points. AWGS Hamper Competition Thursday, 19th November-Winner: M. Healy 33 points, 2nd: T. Shaw 31.5 points, 3rd: P. J. Naughton 31 points. Class 1-1st: E. Kelly 31 points, 2nd: T. Campion 31 points, Class 2-1st: P. McNamara 29.5 points, 2nd: T. Carmody 28 points, Class 3-1st: P. J. Martin 30 points, 2nd: B. Nott 28 points. Veteran: E. Moloney 23 points. Ladies Club: No competitions were held on 14th, 15th and 17th of November due to bad weather.

Castlerea Golf Club 14-hole Competition- The winner of the 14hole competition played recently was Kieran Rosney with 30 points followed by Tony O’Reilly in second place with 29 points.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs hammer Tuam to keep pace at top King and Moffatt League Division 2 / O’Gara Cup Final

TUAM

CREGGS

Heading into the second round of league fixtures Tuam remain top of the division but that position hangs by a thread following this six try hammering at the hands of second placed Creggs. Tuam are on 24 points, same as Creggs with slightly better percentages, which sees them remain on top but Creggs have a much superior points difference and crucially, a game in hand. That is the home game against Ballyhaunis rescheduled for this weekend and a win there would see Creggs in pole position at the half way mark. This game was played in cold, dry conditions with the impressive Tuam pitch barely marked from the recent adverse weather. It was a jittery opening for both sides with the first scoring chance falling to Tuam, a penalty missed by out-half Eoin Cosgrove after 13 minutes. Five minutes later Creggs second row Tom Oates opened the scoring with a try at the left corner flag having been put through by outhalf Shane Dowd with Dowd rifling home the difficult touchline conversion. Former Galway footballer John Donnellan who had come on as full-back replacement missed his side’s second shot at goal before Creggs extended their lead on 25 minutes

when left-winger Philip Leech, in impressive form, finished off a break out of defence, again at the left corner, and again converted by Dowd. Dowd added a penalty three minutes later when Tuam were sanctioned for a late challenge on fullback Dave Flahive before Donnellan finished the first half scoring with a penalty just before half-time leaving Creggs 17-3 ahead at the interval. The visitors pulled further away seven minutes into the second half when Neville Walker barged his way over in the right corner with Dowd adding his third conversion to leave his side 24-3 ahead. Tuam clawed back the deficit with a try from substitute Keith Fleming that was converted by Donnellan after 24 minutes. Creggs responded through a Sean Quinn try, again at the right corner flag, which bagged the bonus point for Creggs. Dowd then continued his kicking master class with the conversion of Creggs’ fifth try, a breakaway from centre Ger Heneghan and Quinn’s second try in the corner, unconverted, following a magnificent turnover from Aidan Leech wrapped up the scoring in the final minute. This was a performance from the top drawer with

all 20 players contributing to the success but there were stand-outs in Philip Leech, Andrew Callaghan and Shane Dowd who are forging a very promising half-back partnership and the pack, although under pressure in the scrums, dominated the line-outs primarily through Tom Oates and won a number of crucial turnovers with Peter Lohan back to his marauding best. Creggs: D Flahive, B Egan, G Heneghan, T Callaghan, P Leech, S Dowd, A Callaghan, K Brandon, P Lohan, B Kilcommons, R Cassidy, T Oates, E Conlon, S O’Higgins, T Fleming, M Buckley, A Leech, N Walker, M Brandon, S Quinn. Creggs 2nds: Creggs 2nds travelled to Monivea for a friendly game on Saturday evening, and despite losing the game it proved a useful workout for both teams. Monivea featured four members of their 1st team squad, and they looked very sharp out wide, stretching Creggs on numerous occasions. However, Creggs tackled with great determination and it was only in the latter stages that Monivea pulled away, as their superior teamwork became a decisive factor. Enda Naughton was a tower of strength in the centre for Creggs, while Conor Gore, making his debut, also did well. Chris Duignan made a welcome return to action while captain Enda Tully, Kieran Coyne, Brian Donoghue, David Feeney and the ram-

The Creggs U-13 players who were victorious over Carrick RFC last weekend.

paging Alan Glennon were most effective up front. Creggs: E Gilleran, J Pontier, C Gore, E Naughton, D Hoare, S Crehan, C Duignan, P Heavey, E Tully, M Kelly, A Glennon, B Donoghue, D Nolan, K Coyne, D Feeney, G Curran, D Naughton, Due to postponements, the 2nds’ fixture list is now somewhat backlogged, so there are three games scheduled over consecutive weekends, starting with at home against Gort. Creggs Minis: Creggs Mini Girls took part in a Blitz in Athlone on Saturday morning, thanks to all those that attended. Next week, Creggs Mini Girls will play Ballinasloe RFC Girls in Ballinasloe on Saturday. A text will go out to all players and we expect kick off to be at 10.30 am Saturday. Creggs Mini Boys will welcome Longford RFC U-8’s to U-12’s this weekend and Ballyhaunis RFC U-8 to U-10’s for a blitz on Saturday morning. Kick off at 10.30 am. Players, please be in Creggs at 10.10 am. Creggs U-13s: Creggs U13’s had a win over Carrick-on-Shannon RFC in a friendly in lovely conditions on Sunday morning. It was a useful exercise as everyone got a good run out. The U-13’s will play Castlebar RFC in the Connacht U-13 League on Saturday in Castlebar at 12.30 pm. Training continues as usual and new players welcome.

Creggs climb high to contest a line-out during recent action.

Creggs U-14s: Creggs U-14’s played Ballinasloe RFC in the Connacht U-14 League on Sunday morning in Ballinasloe and put in a very good performance going down 12-0 to a very strong Ballinasloe outfit. Ballinasloe who are strong favourites for the League, got their first score just on half-time when they won a Creggs scrum in the Creggs 22” and picked from the back of the scrum and beat the Creggs defence to touch down under the posts to take a 7-0 lead. Creggs had the better of the start of the second half and both Luke Divilly, Andrew Naughton and Lorcan Maher all went close before Ballinasloe eventually cleared their lines, got into Creggs territory and scored a try from another 5 metre scrum after 15 minutes of the second half. Creggs finished the game near the Ballinasloe line but again just panicked when the try line was at their mercy when they took wrong options. This was a very good performance though and a good learning curve for this Creggs side, which we will see a lot more from as the season goes on. Creggs U-14’s have no game this coming weekend, and training continues as usual. New players welcome. Connacht U-16 League Claremorris 10 Creggs 8 Creggs U-16’s will wonder how they lost this league game on Saturday in Dunmore. The Creggs team didn’t have any game in four weeks due to cancellations and a rest weekend and they looked very rusty during this game. After two very good wins in their previous games played back in early October, Creggs went into this game with confidence but they managed to knock on

the ball more often in this game than they probably will during the rest of the season. Creggs began the game well with a penalty through Tim Lambe and were 8-0 up when Gustavo Rodriques scored in the corner after a good move from the back of the scrum released the winger. It was then that things began to unravel for Creggs after they conceded a penalty for not releasing at the ruck and Claremorris took their chance leaving it 8-3 at the break. You would have expected Creggs to kick on now but unfortunately knock-ons and a few poor decisions meant they never added to their tally and when Claremorris intercepted a pass and scored a converted try with six minutes left you expected it was going to be one of those days with Claremorris now leading 10-8. Creggs played their best rugby in the last six minutes and laid siege to the Claremorris line but despite being awarded a succession of penalties couldn’t find a score to win the match. Creggs will play Castlebar RFC this weekend. The time to be confirmed. Training continues as usual and new players are always welcome. Connacht U-17 League Ballinasloe RFC 12 Creggs 38 Creggs U-17s made it two away wins on the trot when they overcame Ballinasloe RFC in a lively encounter on Sunday afternoon in Ballinasloe. The game was very even in the first half as both teams slugged it out up front. Creggs took the lead after ten minutes when they ran a penalty 5 metres out and Rian Biesty crashed over for a score which Ronan Dowd converted, Ballinasloe replied with a good try after 18 minutes when they touched down in the

corner after good work from the forwards. Creggs regained the lead before half-time after good work from Melvin Conteh, Ian Conlon and Danny Arnold resulted in a score for Eoghan Coyle, which Dowd again converted giving Creggs a 14-5 halftime lead. In the second half, Creggs took territorial control and after some good work up front from David O’Gorman, Brian Maloney and Dara Byrne, Rian Biesty crashed over his second try, which stretched the lead out to 19-5. The Creggs back line now started to take control of the game and ran in two excellent tries: the first from Jason Hoare after seven minutes, following good hands from Eoghan Coyle, Shane Purcell and Niall Cunniffe, stretching the lead to 24-5. Ballinasloe then made a rare excursion into the Creggs 22” and following good work from the forwards they punched holes in the defence and got the score to reduce the deficit to 24-12. Ronan Dowd responded by kicking a penalty to put the result beyond doubt and to stretch the lead to 27-5. On 22 minutes a maul at the lineout released the excellent Creggs backs and the ball went through all the backs’ hands for Adam Canny to score an excellent try in the corner, which Dowd converted. The final score came in the final play of the game when the excellent Biesty got his third try and Creggs sixth when he cashed over right in the corner after Creggs had won a lineout five metres from their opponents’ line. Next weekend Creggs will play Sligo RFC in the Connacht U-17 League in Creggs at 1.30 pm. Training continues as usual and new players always welcome.

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

SportsPeople

Seamus Duke ON SPORT International Rules series pointless but players won’t complain! I have to say that despite the fact that I am not a follower of the International Rules game, I enjoyed last weekend’s latest staging at Croke Park. It might have been a little ’soft’ with very few hard hits in it at all but some of the skills on view were excellent. Ireland had some great performers like Aidan O’Shea, Gary Brennan from Clare,

Bernard Brogan, Conor McManus and goalie Niall Morgan. I know that the players like this game so on that basis it probably has to go ahead but I don’t see the point in it to be quite honest. It was clear that although the Australians were brilliant at fielding the ball, they were struggling with the round ball when it came to

scoring. They were in great positions several times and they were not able to score the vital six pointers. But it was enjoyable to watch. I see where there is a clamour now to restore the two game series and that’s what will probably happen in 2016. I certainly wouldn’t be denying county players a chance of three weeks in

Australia while representing their country and the best of luck to them as well. But you will not see or hear any meaningful debate in the national media about this game either because the main GAA writers and broadcasters will all get a free trip to Australia as well. I suppose if I was involved I would like it too!

Ireland overcame Australia 56-52 to win the Cormac McAnallen cup in Croke Park recently.

Barca mesmerise in Madrid

Klopp can be ‘King of the Kop’ In the Premier League, I know that it’s early days yet but Jurgen Klopp has totally transformed Liverpool and he is only a month in charge. They hammered Manchester City at The Etihad last Saturday and his all action pressing style is already paying dividends. I think he will be a hugely successful manager of Liverpool. He is a great personality and he doesn’t take himself too seriously which is great to see. The title is certainly up for grabs this season and there is no real outstanding team. Arsenal are very unpredictable, while Manchester City seem to be falling apart. Chelsea are only middling this season while Manchester United are doing well but they are very conservative in their play. The team who are playing the best football at the moment are probably Spurs. It is also fantastic to see a club like Leicester on top of the table. They probably won’t stay there but it is great to see a new name doing well. The Jamie Vardy story is a great one. A few years ago he was playing non league football and now he has scored in ten Premier League games in a row, which is some feat. Now that Ireland have qualified for Euro 2016 there will be plenty of players who will be hoping to impress Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane in the next few months. I see that this week the best player in the League of Ireland, Richie Towell, is set to join Brighton. It is a great opportunity for him and what a story it would be if he could make it in to the squad for France. Time will tell.

Jurgen Klopp has enjoyed a promising start to his career as Liverpool manager.

Athleague’s defeat in the AIB All-Ireland Junior Camogie Final last weekend brings the curtain down on a successful year for local sport. Picture: Andrew Fox

Clubs gear up for a crack at Croke Park The Club Championships are certainly taking shape and I have to say that I was surprised with how easily Castlebar beat Corofin in the Connacht club final last Sunday. Having watched Castlebar against Clann na nGael in the semi-final I thought that Corofin would win fairly easily but Castlebar were obviously ready for the challenge and they will be a very strong side in the All-Ireland series. Elsewhere, Portlaoise will be hot favourites to win the Leinster championship after they hammered a good Emmett Óg Killoe side in the semi-final last Sunday. Ballyboden will be hard to beat but Portlaoise can do it this year in Leinster. In Ulster my information is that Crossmaglen are as strong as they ever were this year which is some statement. If that is true then they should be too strong for

Scotstown. Nemo Rangers look the team to beat in Munster so it is going to be a very tight battle to get to Croker on St. Patrick’s Day. In the hurling, watch out for Na Piarsiagh in 2016. They won their third Munster title in five years last Sunday and surely their time has come to go all the way. Time to draw breath after successful 2015 The defeat for Athleague in the camogie final last Sunday has almost brought the curtain down on the year in local sport and in my long years doing this job I don’t think there has ever been a busier year. We started the year with a win in the FBD League and then we had a very exciting National League campaign culminating in a win against Down in Croke Park in the Division 2 final.

We had St. Croan’s reaching the All-Ireland Intermediate club final. Then Roscommon CBS got to the All-Ireland colleges senior ‘A’ final. The Roscommon hurlers won the Nicky Rackard Cup in thrilling fashion in Croke Park. Then we had a new format in the football championships with extra games. In the hurling, Four Roads contested a Connacht final that they should have won. In soccer we had Ballinasloe Town winning the Premier League title on the last day of the season against Ballaghaderreen. In addition, we had new champions in camogie, we had David Concannon continuing his rise up the darts pecking order and several other major local sport achievements too many to detail here. It has been a brilliant year in local sport nad let’s hope 2016 is just as busy.

Dublin v Galway Hurling Exhibition in Boston Linda Henry was one of the interested spectators at Fenway Park in Boston for last night’s hurling clash between Dublin and Galway, and the wife of Liverpool Football Club owner John W. Henry was impressed by what she saw. At the home of the Red Sox, the Dubs and the Tribesmen served up a spectacle that has captured the imagination of the local Boston public. The Boston Globe and Boston Herald newspapers have been effusive in their praise this week. “There really isn’t a USbased sport for one-on-one comparison, but hurling includes elements a North American would identify in lacrosse, ice hockey, baseball, soccer, and basketball,”

writes Kevin Paul Dupont in the Boston Globe. “All the goalies, five of whom saw action, made stops that rated somewhere between impossible and something out of the Pixar animation lab. Take the three best goalie saves across the NHL (National Hockey League) on any given night, none would compare with those which Galway’s Colm Callanan and James Skehill and Dublin’s Dooley, Gary Maguire, and Alan Nolan fashioned across the 60 minutes.” “It’s better than St. Patrick’s Day where basically everyone is drunk,” said Jim Behan of Nahant, speaking to the Boston Herald. “You can see everything else and what Ireland has to bring. That’s what I really enjoy.”

Brendan Daly, 65, of Kittery, Maine, grew up in Dublin and he said: “It brings back memories of being in Croke Park and listening to the Artane Boys Band.” “It wouldn’t be exciting without a fight,” said Mary Behen of Nahant, also a Dublin native. Boston Red Sox President Sam Kennedy was one of the 27,000-plus crowd at Fenway and he was bowled over by what he saw at the AIG sponsored event. “I am so incredibly grateful to everyone who pulled together to stage what was a spectacular event,” said the head of one of the US’s most successful and popular sporting franchises. “We need to do that again – and soon.” Dublin were clearly deflated to have lost having led by sev-

en points at one stage in the third quarter. But overall they were just delighted to have been asked to take part in the game, which the GAA and GPA see as a key promotional tool for hurling abroad. “We’ve heard all the stories about Fenway going all the way back to de Valera and Babe Ruth,” said the Dubs’ Johnny McCaffrey, referencing Eamon de Valera’s 1919 fundraising tour of Boston and the Red Sox’s most famous player. “It’s historic and we were thrilled to be part of it. We’re really gutted to have lost the game, but seeing Fenway Park and the set-up was great. Conor Dooley had an x-ray straight away after his injury. Where would you get that?” (the 42.ie)

I watched a number of games on Saturday evening last including Real Madrid v Barcelona and it was a treat to see this Barcelona team play. They ripped Madrid to shreds and some of their play was just unbelievable. The first goal Barca scored (Suarez) was as good a team goal as I have ever seen. It was hard to believe that Real Madrid were playing at home. Suarez, Neymar, Iniesta and company did as they liked while the likes of Modric, Ronaldo and Bale didn’t get a kick. It was mesmerising stuff and Rafa Benitez will be getting his P45 very soon I fear.

Andres Iniesta was instrumental as Barcelona hammered Real Madrid in the Bernabeu last weekend

From the Internet It was a great weekend in the Cunningham household. On Saturday, Aaron and Jack played for Wolfe Tones as the club captured the AIB Munster Intermediate hurling title before their father Alan played a key role in the backroom for senior kingpins Na Piarsaigh yesterday. Senior panellist Aaron Cunningham starred on the Clare teams that captured three successive All-Ireland U-21 crowns from 2012-2014 and Alan is a former Clare and Offaly senior hurling coach who has been working wonders behind the scenes alongside manager Shane O’Neill with Na Piarsaigh. (the 42.ie)

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

AIB All-Ireland Junior Camogie Club Final: Athleague 0-7 Johnstownbridge 2-10

Athleague suffer ﬁnal heartbreak THE VERDICT Seamus Duke A really brave effort from Athleague fell short in this entertaining All-Ireland Junior Club Camogie Final played in Kinnegad last Sunday. With the game going into injury-time there was only four points in it (1-8 to 0-7), but a late scoring burst from the Kildare girls of 1-2 in the two minutes of added time played saw a winning margin of nine points which was unfair to Athleague given the effort they had put in particularly in the second half. Having said that, Johnstownbridge were the better side overall and they deserved their win. They had a number of fantastic players throughout their team. Aisling Holton, Louise Codd, Clodagh Flanagan and Siobhan Hurley were outstanding on the day and Louise Codd in particular was the star of the show scoring 1-4 from play. Athleague battled away and when they got the lead down to four points in the second half, they had a couple of half chances, but in truth they just didn’t have the forward power to trouble the Kildare girls. Paula Daly was in inspired

form in goal. She made several superb saves and clearances and she denied Johnstownbridge time after time. Elaine Daly and Kelley Hopkins also did well at times in a defence that was under pressure. Rachel Fitzmaurice was Athleague’s best player and her driving runs and three outstanding points from play were a joy to behold. Annette McGeeney and Rebecca Brennan also played well but the number of young players on the Athleague team was a factor and this will be a learning experience for them after finally winning a county title and qualifying for an All-Ireland final. It took Athleague so long to get going and they didn’t score until the 23rd minute. At that stage Johnstownbridge had 14 on the board and it was always going to be a huge task to reel in that kind of lead. But Athleague dug in and in fairness they made it difficult for the Leinster champions in the third quarter. The Roscommon girls had plenty of the ball but they couldn’t get in for a goal, which would have really put them back in

business. Paula Daly was keeping the Athleague back door closed with some inspired goalkeeping but eventually Johnstownbridge got their second goal in injury-time, and a soft one it was too. Two quick fire points saw the gap extended to nine at the final whistle, which was flattering to the winners After the game was over Athleague manager, Liam Gordon, said that his side’s slow start was a key factor. “We didn’t start well at all and the early goal was a killer. We were playing catch up after that which was difficult. But in fairness to the girls they played really well in the second half and the final score-line was unfair on us to be honest. They put in a super effort. “Paula Daly made three brilliant saves and Rachel Fitzmaurice was also great too and we had other great displays. But fair play to Johnstownbridge, they are trying to win this title for five years and they have a lot of experience on their team whereas we have a lot of young players. There is great hope for the future. A lot of these girls have a lot of football and camogie played this year they have trained hard two or three times a week

Aisling Holton (Johnstownbridge) gathers possession ahead of Athleague’s Fiona Connell. Picture: Andrew Fox

and they are a credit.” The big crowd of supporters who travelled to Kinnegad last Sunday will not be downhearted. This is a young Athleague side who will only improve. Now they have to set their sights on retaining their county title in 2016 and see where it takes them after that.

(Above) Fiona Blake (Johnstownbridge) gathers as Athleague’s Leanne Kelly attempts a tackle. Picture: Andrew Foxa

(Left) Athleague have their final team talk before the start of the AIB All-Ireland Junior Club Camogie Final against Johnstownbridge. Picture: Andrew Fox

BIG MATCH STATS Frees Awarded Yellow Cards Scores From Play Wides

Johnstownbridge 15 (9) 0 2-8 11(5)

Athleague 16 (7) 3 0-5 5(3)

Top Scorer Louise Codd (1-4)

Rachel Fitzmaurice (0-3)

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

AIB All-Ireland Junior Camogie Club Final: Athleague 0-7 Johnstownbridge 2-10

Clodagh Flanagan, right, Johnstownbridge, in action against Rachel Fitzmaurice, Athleague. AIB All-Ireland Junior Club Championship Final, Johnstownbridge (Kildare) v Athleague (Roscommon). Coralstown Kinnegad GAA club, Kinnegad, Co. Westmeath. Picture Credit: Caroline Quinn

Athleague’s Rebecca Brennan attempts a shot at goal. Picture: Andrew Fox

Johnstownbridge too strong for young Athleague side KEY MOMENTS Seamus Duke Played on a crisp, dry, cold evening in Kinnegad the match was held up for ten minutes to allow the big crowd a chance to get into the ground and an attendance of about 1,200 saw a very entertaining game. However, it was Johnstownbridge who hit the ground running and with Louise Codd rampant at midfield, the Kildare girls led by 1-4 to 0-0 after 19 minutes. The first chance of the game actually came to Athleague full forward Rachel Fallon but her snap shot for a goal whizzed outside the post in the opening minute. It was the Kildare outfit that took over after that scare. Points from Jane

O’Donoghue, Louise Codd and Siobhan Hurley (free) saw them three ahead by the 7th minute. In the 15th minute Siobhan Hurley shot for a goal, which was brilliantly saved by Paula Daly, but Ciara Mooney flicked the rebound to the Athleague net. When Louise Codd fired over a brilliant point from 30 metres in the 19th minute Johnstownbridge were seven points to the good. In the 23rd minute Kelley Hopkins opened the Athleague scoring with an excellent point from 40 metres. Siobhan Hurley replied with another good point from play in the 25th minute. But it was Athleague who finished the half the better side

PLAYER OF THE MATCH Louise Codd (Johnstownbridge) For Athleague Rachel Fitzmaurice was outstanding and she scored three fantastic points as well. Paula Daly, Elaine Daly, Kelley Hopkins, Annette McGeeney and Rebecca Brennan (second half) were also prominent for the Roscommon champions. For the winners Aisling Holton, Jenna Murphy, Clodagh, Flanagan, and Siobhan Hurley were all excellent but Louise Codd was just fantastic from the first whistle to the last. Athletic, skillful and with a super engine, she scored 1-4 from midfield and was the best player on view by some distance.

and points from Annette McGeeney and a Fiona Connell-Jones free saw the half-time score read Johnstownbridge 1-5 Athleague 0-3. The second half was a much tighter affair. Rachel Fitzmaurice opened the scoring in the 37th minute with a superb point on the run. But three points without reply for Johnstownbridge by the 46th minute left them in a very strong position once again. Louise Codd (2) and Siobhan Hurley were the players on target, all from play too. Athleague then enjoyed their best spell of the game as they came back into contention. Kelley Hopkins converted a free in the 51st minute and then two excellent points from Rachel Fitzmaurice within a minute saw the gap down to four (1-8 to 0-7) with five minutes left. Athleague needed a goal to set up a grandstand finish but it just wouldn’t come and it was Johnstownbridge who closed out the game with a furry of scores in injury-time. First in the 60th minute Louise Codd’s long range free went all the way to the Athleague net and then two points from Siobhan Hurley (one a free) saw the Kildare side pull away to win by nine points in the end. The final scoreline was harsh on a

Louise Codd, Johnstownbridge, in action against Chloe Whyte-Lennon, left, and Annette McGeeney, Athleague. AIB AllIreland Junior Club Championship Final, Johnstownbridge (Kildare) v Athleague (Roscommon). Coralstown Kinnegad GAA club, Kinnegad, Co. Westmeath. Picture Credit: Caroline Quinn

gallant Athleague side but Johnstownbridge deserved to win it. Johnstownbridge: Tanya Johnson; Aisling Holton, Eimear Hurley, Fiona Blake; Erin McEvoy, Jenna Murphy, Careen Farrell; Louise Codd (1-4),

Clodagh Flanagan; Aoife Trant, Siobhan Hurley (05, 2 frees), Claire Hurley; Roisin O’Connell, Jane O’Donoghue (0-1), Ciara Mooney (1-0). Subs: Shauna Beatty for Mooney (55), Emma Farrell for C Hurley (55).

Athleague: Paula Daly; Niamh Conway, Elaine Daly, Eala Coyle; Nora Brennan, Kelley Hopkins (02,1 free), Niamh Brandon; Maeve Brennan, Rachel Fitzmaurice (0-3); Chloe Whyte-Lennon, Annette McGeeney (0-1), Rebecca

Brennan; Fiona ConnellJones (0-1), Rachel Fallon, Leanne Kelly. Subs: Laura Keenan for M Brennan (h-t), Catriona Murray for Kelly (56). Referee: Eamon Cassidy (Derry)

Roscommon People Friday 27 November 2015

Finnn Electrical A

Deposits now being taken for Christmas

A Big Boys Toys

Goff Street, Roscommon town – Roscommon. Tel. (090) 66 25573 Call in for more details

Black Friday Offers 9kg Whirlpool Washing Machine was €399

Normende 5kg/1000 Spin Washing Machine

A A now only

€299

Philips Airfryer was €169

FROM ONLY

€99

Large range of Tablets, p La tops & and Printers

Krups Inissia Nespresso Machine

now only

€299

5 YEAR PARTS & LABOUR WARRANTY

Wine Cooler 25 Bottle Capacity was €299

€199

Parrot Drones De Longhi Lattissima Nespresso

€129

now only

€199

€179

RESELLER iPad Mini

iPad Air

€249

€309

€409

with Onboard Camera

Ar Drone 2.0 Elite

Dyson V6 Vac Cleaners

€299

with HD Camera

Full HD Sport Cam

€349 FROM ONLY

LOTS OF CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS – DEPOSITS TAKEN FOR CHRISTMAS

iPod Touch

€99

Jumping Sumo

Rolling Spider

Fluffy

€449

Absolute

€149

ALL IN STOCK

BLUETOOTH SPEAKERS

€499

WiFi & Water Proof

BLUETOOTH HEADPHONES

PRICE OF ELECTRICAL ITEMS INCLUDES A CONTRIBUTION TO RECYCLING COSTS – Pictures are for illustration purposes only. All items subject to availability. Prices are subject to change without notice. Prices are correct at the time of print. VAT inclusive. All rights reserved. E &OE.