2015 12 18 by Roscommon People

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

Christmas Shopping Guide Inside

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

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18 December 2015

The Local Paper

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

Stocktaking End of Year

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FF saga set to end as Convention called < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Fianna Fáil has ended months of speculation by announcing that their General Election Selection Convention for the Roscommon-Galway

constituency will take place in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Sunday, December 20. Around 640 party members will be eligible to cast their votes between 3 pm and 5 pm. A winner will be

declared by 7 pm. The two-man field involves a battle between youth and experience: Cllr. Eugene Murphy, who is 56, versus Ballintubber’s Seán Óg Higgins, who is 25. See also page 18.

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

Pictured at the Roscommon Cancer Support Centre Christmas Market in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Laura Mullooly, Dara Mullooly and Kathleen Heavey. Picture: Andrew Fox

Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan MEP

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Michael Fitzmaurice TD ADVANCE NOTICE: Clinics for MICHAEL FITZMAURICE TD MONDAY 21st DECEMBER 2015

5pm – BOYLE: Family Resource Centre (Beside Church) 6pm – CARRICK-ON-SHANNON: Bush Hotel 7pm – ROOSKEY: Community Centre 8pm – ELPHIN: Bóthar Rua I look forward to meeting you all at the clinics.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

Annual Creggs RFC Car Wash this weekend

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

The annual Creggs RFC Christmas Car Wash in Roscommon town to raise badlyneeded funds for the Creggs Club underage/CBS & Community School’s rugby takes place again this weekend. This year it runs again for two days – namely Saturday 19th and Sunday, December 20th (from 10 am to 4 pm). Please support Youth, Mini and School rugby

and get you car washed for Christmas! The club is appealing for help over the weekend from seniors players, youth team players, as well as parents of School, Youth and Mini Rugby teams. Please contact Vincent Collins to add your name to the roster, for any of the following shifts: 10 am-1 pm/1 pm-4 pm (Saturday or Sunday). Thank you.

HOMEOPATHY & REFLEXOLOGY

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at The Abbey Hotel See our new Cocktail Menu available from this Friday This Christmas Season you can enjoy our extensive drinks menu here at the Abbey Hotel now serving a brand new range of Whiskeys and Craft Beers including Hop House, 13 Come and enjoy a sample Jameson Irish COMPLIMENTARY Hop Whiskey and House 13 Craft Beer at the Redbreast Whiskey Abbey this Friday night Abbey Hotel - RAI Best Hotel Restaurant in County Roscommon 2014 & 2015

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

MAIN STREET, CASTLEREA

I would like to wish all my customers a Happy Christmas and wonderful New Year and thanks for your continued support all year

Christmas Opening Hours: Open Friday 18th and Saturday 19th December, 9.30am - 6.30pm; Monday 21st, 10am-5pm; Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd, 9.30am - 6.30pm; Thursday 24th, Christmas Eve, 9.30am - 1.30pm

Birth Certiﬁcate Pictured at a Christmas Fair in Dalton’s of Fuerty on Sunday last were Deirdre and Amy Elliffe.

HSE to overspend on mental health locally by €675,000 < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The Health Service Executive expects to overspend its budget for mental health services in counties Roscommon and Galway by €675,000 this year. A total of €63.72 million was allocated for running the Galway Roscommon Mental Health Service (GRMHS) in 2015, which equated to a €12 million reduction on the €75.83 million assigned in 2010. However, the minutes of a meeting of the Galway/Roscommon area mental health management team, held on September 30, reveal that it was anticipated that the budget would be significantly exceeded. The minutes, released under the Freedom of Information Act, note: “Forecast is that GRMHS will be €675,000 overspent by year-end. Increase as a result of signing off on recent recruitment, overtime, agency (staff).”

The minutes say that John Meehan, the area manager for the GRMHS, “confirmed that going forward to year-end, no further maternity leave cover will be approved unless heads of disciplines make a case that need is required based on provision of a safe service.” The news comes at a time when a major review of mental health services in Co. Roscommon is ongoing. In August, the HSE appointed an external team to conduct the review, prompted partly because of allegations of ‘sexual contact’ at a care centre in Castlerea. The review began on August 28 and was due to take three months to complete, but the completion has been delayed because of the volume of staff who are to be interviewed. A HSE spokesman said: “At present, we do not have a definitive timeline. We expect to have a final copy of this report early in the New Year.”

Roscommon has highest admission rate in country to psychiatric units

t admission rate in the Co. Roscommon had the highes year, a report by the Health last ts uni country to psychiatric Research Board has found. Irish psychiatric units and The report – on activities of there were 505.7 admissions t hospitals in 2014 – found tha county. Carlow (461.4) were the in tion ula pop 0 ,00 per 100 Donegal (453). the next highest, followed by .8 per cent) in the number (13 rise There was also a sharp chiatric unit in Roscommon of patients admitted to the psy322 admissions, compared to Hospital last year: there were 283 in 2013. rson of the Hospital Action John McDermott, the chairpemon’s rate was mainly because com Ros t tha Committee, said people. of its large number of elderly ated and due to the fact -rel age be ld wou it of “A lot of living alone, like farmers not that you have a lot of people happened in Roscommon is married,” he said. “What has e emigrated. that so many young people havtalking about is an older “Then the population you are factors that lead to mental population and it has all of the illness, like loneliness.” many people no longer had a Mr McDermott also said that r contributary factor. the social outlet, which was ano tions, farmers used to be able “Previously, in other genera e a few pints,” he said. “Now, to go down to the pub and hav they don’t do that.” was not criticising the firm He stressed, however, that he drink-driving in recent years. to en tak approach Gardaí have psychiatric unit in Last year, in 97 of cases at the t’s primary diagnosis ien pat a l, pita Roscommon Hos admissions were due to a was a depressive disorder; 53 schizophrenia-type illness. from alcoholic disorders; 16 Ten patients were suffering drug disorders and three from admissions were due to other eating disorders. to the unit lasted under a Ninety-nine of all admissions 23.4 days. Yet some stays was week, and the average stay ht between three months and lasted significantly longer: eigand five years. a year, and one between one

My partner and I are unmarried. We are expecting our first child together in the New Year and I would like to include my partners name on the baby’s birth certificate. What are our options regarding birth registration. Does the naming of the baby’s father on the birth certificate give him rights? There are a number of different options for unmarried parents when it comes to registering your baby’s birth. The options are as follows: 1. Both parents can register the birth together by going to the registrar in the hospital or local registrar’s office. 2. Either parent can present to the registrar a form signed by the other parent, and correctly witnessed, called a Statutory Declaration swearing that he is the father. 3. Either parent can bring to the registrar a copy of any court order naming the father in respect of the child. e.g. access, maintenance or guardianship and have the father’s name entered on the birth certificate, without the consent of the other parent. The other parent will be notified. The consent of both parents is required to change the child’s surname. If the child has been registered in the mother’s name alone, it is possible to re-register the birth at any future date in order to have the father’s details included using any of the methods outlined above for registration. Parents can choose either the mother’s surname, the father’s surname (but only if the father’s name is going on the birth certificate and he agrees) or both parents’ surnames – a double-barrelled surname. Having the father’s name on the birth certificate does not give the father any rights in respect of his child. Also, having the father’s name on the birth certificate does not prevent the mother from getting One-Parent Family Payment. It also worth noting that a child has a right to be financially maintained by both parents and to inherit from them once paternity of the child has been established. This applies regardless of the father’s name being on the birth certificate. 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 18 December 2015

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople

Cynic Gal Shelly Madden

See our column on page 2

newsbriefs

‘Sorry, I Have a Boyfriend’ The season of socialising is upon us and we are once again lured into an intoxicating scene of boozing and nightclub hopping. The essence of an Irish Christmas, after all, is a drunken sing-song in a smoking area. On a serious note however, for young women, the yuletide period can be troublesome and potentially dangerous. Scarily enough, the question to girls is not ‘Have you ever been groped or sexually assaulted on a night out?’ but rather, ‘How many times has it happened to you?’ It is so commonplace, we barely even notice it. Worse still, we accept that it’s just the way things are. A guy grabbed my bum one night and my automatic reaction was to slap him in the face. When I noticed the bouncer heading in my direction, I froze in panic, expecting to be reprimanded and ousted from the establishment. When instead, he threw Pervy Perverson out, I was shocked. Because I physically rebuffed his unwanted groping, I assumed that I was in

the wrong and would be punished. That’s when I realised how deeply psychological this issue is. Last weekend, I went to see my friend perform a one-woman show where she portrayed a morally bankrupt female who disregarded self-respect in the pursuit of male attention. The most alarming thing was that many of her statements rang true; one particular line that struck a chord was when she nonchalantly dismissed an older man groping her from behind because he, in fairness, bought her a drink. Too often, we laugh off the sexism and the inappropriate behaviour because we don’t want to cause a fuss, or seem prudish. We don’t want to be ‘that girl’. We want to be ‘sound’. It seems preposterous to say it aloud, but these thoughts are so ingrained in our psyche, I don’t think we even realise how damaging they can be. One prevalent example is the way we fob off pestering admirers by saying ‘Sorry, I have a boyfriend’, even if this is not the case. First of all: why are we sorry? Sorry your

explicit chat up-line didn’t leave me weak at the knees? Sorry I haven’t mounted you as gratitude for staring down my top? By claiming your allegiance to another male, you make excuses for the fact that his advances have been in vain. You feel like you must offer some sort of explanation because you don’t want to seem like an uptight bitch. We blame ourselves: I’m wearing a short skirt. I’m drunk. I should be flattered that he called me sexy. We tell ourselves that anything other than the textbook definition of rape is simply not serious enough to warrant our ‘feminist bullshit’ and so, we keep our mouths shut and smile. Girls, this needs to stop. Stop accepting this behaviour as normal. Stop apologising to pig stranger man. Stop apologising for respecting your body because if you don’t, he certainly won’t. Steer clear of the Leering Larrys and hang out with decent boys who don’t refer to you as a ‘ride’. Stay safe this Christmas!

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

The Bridge Club Roscommon Bridge Club: North/South – 1: M. & P. Mellett, 2nd: E. Kelly & M. Dermody, 3rd: A. Rafferty & V. McManus. East/West – 1st: K. Dowd & M. Molloy, 2: C. Plunkett & J. O’Shea, 3: L. Brennan & M. Brennan. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club: 1st: T. Smyth & L. Shine, 2nd: K. Murray & B. Ferguson, 3rd: M. & T. O’Keeffe. Ballymurray Bridge Club: Section A North/South – 1st: M. Law & F. Keane, 2nd: M. Quinn & R. Roughneen, Gross: F. Neilan & S. Hickey, 3rd: B. Maher & P. Whyte. East/West – 1st: G. Finn & K. Coyle, 2nd: J. Walsh & P. Donnelly, Gross: M. Doyle & A. Hewitt, 3rd: M. Gregory & K. Walshe. Section B North/South – 1st: M. McSharry & M. Raftery, 2nd: S. Quinn & B. Gillooly, Gross: G. Bannon & S. Kelly, 3rd: M. Hickey & M. Byrne. East/West – 1st: M. Naughton & S. Gregory, 2nd: T. McManus & R. McGarry, Gross: P. Finneran & J. McGrath, 3rd: K. Blighe & A. Shine. Beginners: M. Regan & C. Browne.

Ofﬁcial opening of Civic HQ in February < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The official opening of Roscommon County Council will take place on February 3. It is understood that that date has been pencilled in for the grand opening of the €15 million project, which measures 6,250 sq. ft. It became operational on Monday, December 7, and houses 13 departments of the local authority. It is expected that Taoiseach Enda Kenny or a senior Minister will preside over the official opening. The first council meeting in the new premises was held on Wednesday, when the Athlone Municipal District, essentially a sub-committee of the local authority, convened in the Loughnaneane Suite. The first full council meeting to be held in the new council chamber, a more impressive room, will take place on Wednesday, January 6.

Lighting funding for Ballintubber estate

Dr. Noel Gately pictured with his wife Jackie and daughter Laura. Dr. Noel recently graduated with a PhD in biomedical Engineering at Athlone Institute of Technology. Noel is the son of Tommy and Kathleen Gately, Dysart, Co. Roscommon.

Fianna Fáil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice has announced that new bulbs will be installed in the street lighting at Bán an Chaisleáin estate at Ballintubber, near Castlerea. “Only two of the street lights are working at present and I have secured money from the lighting fund for unfinished estates to light up this estate for Christmas,” he said. He said that he expected that work would begin today (Thursday) and that all lights would be working by this evening.

Lighting works will take place at Bán an Chaisleáin estate at Ballintubber, near Castlerea, this week.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople

Revealed: HSE plan for €13m rebuild of Sacred Heart Hospital < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The Health Service Executive have revealed their plan for the rebuild and upgrade of the Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon town. The project design, completed by the estates department of HSE West, was released under the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act. The Health Information and Quality (HIQA) have repeatedly stated that the building, which was constructed between 1970 and 1976, is not compliant with modern health regulations. At present, there are 95 beds at the hospital: 20 in St Joseph’s Ward, 20 in St Michael’s, 18 in Our Lady’s and 37 in St Catherine’s. Under the new design, a total of 95 beds would be maintained, but a radical overhaul of the building would be carried out. The project design states that Our Lady’s and St Joseph’s are “not fit for upgrade and new build is required”, while “St Michael’s can have partial

Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon

redevelopment to accommodate an eight-bedded dementia unit”. The HSE’s proposal is to build a new 50-bedded unit on the existing five-hectare (12-acre) site on the Golf Links Road. St Catherine’s Ward, which was significantly upgraded in 2010, could continue to cater for 37 residents. The fully refurbished St Michael’s Ward would cater for eight. Eighty per cent of the beds would be single rooms. A number of auxiliary works, like a new entrance with a new sheltered canopy, would also be carried

out. The HSE has assembled a project team, comprising seven officials, to oversee the new development. Julie Silke-Daly, the Director of Nursing at the Sacred Heart Hospital, is one of the members of the team. According to the project design document, construction of the development would commence in May 2016 and be completed in January 2017. However, it seems highly unlikely that that timeline will now be met because of a delay in funding approval. Locally, the HSE are very

keen for the project to proceed. On August 14, in a letter released under FoI, Siobhan O’Sullivan, the HSE’s temporary area manager for Roscommon/Galway, wrote to the national head of operations, Michael Fitzgerald, seeking €13 million to advance the project. “I write to seek your support for the urgent replacement of 50 of the long-stay beds in the Sacred Heart Hospital and Care Home, Roscommon,” she wrote. “The provision of the replacement long-stay beds is critical in that the exist-

ing accommodation was built in the 1970s and is not HIQA compliant in relation to care environment, fire safety and water management. “Nor is it amenable to reconstruction to a primarily single-bed layout, the cost of which would be prohibitive and the investment not justified. “The total estimated capital cost of the project is €13 million… “I should appreciate your urgent approval for its submission to the National Capital Steering Group.” As yet, however, the funding has not been sanctioned. Doubt has been surrounding the long-term future of the hospital since the summer. A separate document, also released under FoI, reveals that the HSE were concerned about the “severe adverse publicity” any threat to the hospital future would cause. “Roscommon public will protest at any closure to services at SHHR (Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon),” a HSE risk assessment form, which was completed on August 11, said.

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Hynes’ Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon. Tel. (090) 66 34147

CHRISTMAS EDITION

Pre-Christmas Sale Continues SEE IN-STORE FOR GREAT OFFERS

DEADLINES Our Christmas edition, (dated 25th December, 2015), will be distributed on Monday morning 21st December. Please note that the deadline for advertising for this issue is as follows:

FREE Hamper Making Service

Gift Vouchers Available – with NO EXPIRY DATE

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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: Thursday 17th December at 5pm

Roscommon’s largest stockist of luxury fragrances

We will not be able to guarantee publication after these times. Thank you.

CHRISTMAS CLUB AVAILABLE Prescription collection and delivery service also available

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople

Second annual St. Coman’s Walk for charity Weather permitting, the second annual ‘St. Coman’s Walk for Charity’ will take place on Saturday, 26th December starting at 10.45 am from the car park opposite St. Coman’s Church, located at the top of Henry Street in Roscommon town. This walk is just over one mile in length and If you have time to spare then please join us and find out more about Roscommon which is named after St. Coman, an eight century saint whose feast day

Club Rossie has Christmas all wrapped up!

BROTHER & SISTER GRADUATE… LEFT: Maria Kiernan, 16, An Graig, Athleague, graduated from LIT (Limerick Institute of Technology) with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Music Technology and Production. RIGHT: John Kiernan, 16, An Graig, Athleague, graduated from DIT (Dublin Institute of Technology) with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science.

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Club Rossie are delighted to announce details of our Junior Club Rossie Membership for 2016. The highlight of the pack is an exclusive training jersey, which will only be available to Junior Club Rossie members and members of the Roscommon Football and Hurling Teams. In addition to the jersey, Junior Club Rossie members will receive a Club Rossie beanie hat, and discounts for George Bannon Sports and Roscommon Leisure Zone. Membership also includes access to ‘meet and greet’ events with the Roscommon Senior players. And entry to regular ‘Member’s only’ competitions with a chance to win some great prizes including the opportunity to be a mascot for a home league and championship match in 2016; a coaching session for your class or club team with Roscommon Senior players; a trip on the Roscommon GAA team bus for your school or club team or the opportunity to attend a Senior team training session. Membership of Junior Club Rossie costs €50 for jersey sizes 5-6 to 10-11 or €60 for jersey size 13 and over. A €5 discount off the base price is available for each subse-

quent child in the same family. Membership packs are available from the Roscommon GAA Office, Racecourse Road today and tomorrow (Thursday 17th and Friday 18th) from 10 am to 4 pm and on this Saturday 19th from 11 am–12 pm. A limited number of packages are available and supporters have the option of paying and reserving theirs now on-line at www.clubrossie.ie and collecting it at the office. The website features something for all the family and has an array of Club Rossie merchandise, gift vouchers and more.

New range of craft beers and cocktail menu at the Abbey Hotel

Up to

is celebrated on the 26th December. Hi Vis vests are advisable as is appropriate footwear for this second annual walk around Roscommon town which is organised by Roscommon LEADER Partnership in association with Dysart Rural Men’s Group. All proceeds from this event will be going to The Sacred Heart Home Comfort Fund. For further information please contact dysartrmg@ridc.ie or 086-8139255.

Why not come along this Friday night to the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon and try our their exciting new Cocktail Menu! The Cocktail menu will include a Cheeky Cosmopolitan, a Tequila Sunrise, an Apple Martini, a Grass Hopper and refreshing Abbey Signature Festive French Martini. All cock-

Fantastic Gift Ideas & Christmas Offers at:

tails are only €7.50! This Christmas season you can enjoy their extensive drinks menu with the added introduction of a new range of craft beers, gluten free beers, cider and whiskeys, including the popular Hop House 13 craft beer, the Jameson Irish Whiskey range and a new stock of Redbreast

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TOP: Hop House 13, a crisp craft beer now available at the Abbey Hotel Roscommon. The MacIvor Medium Cider - a refreshing craft cider now available at the Abbey Hotel Roscommon.

RIGHT: Redbreast Irish Whiskey now available at the Abbey Hotel Roscommon.

Whiskey are now available at the Abbey bar. This Friday night the 18th of December we have a *limited amount of sample complimentary craft beers to offer to our customers for one night only so be sure to join us in the Abbey Bar from 6 pm. *One sample per customer while stock lasts.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople

Bakery & Cafe

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NEXT MONDAY 21st DECEMBER from 5.30pm to 7.30pm OPEN AIR EXPERIENCE – HOT DRINKS, FINGER FOODS & MINCE PIES PLUS MUCH MORE…. Participating – Molloys Artisan Bakery; Bear an Raille (The Railway Bar); Londis (Timothys); Abbey Hotel

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ROSCOMMON Driving School

‘Save Roscommon’ group to host public meeting in New Year

087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

KEARNEY’S CHEMIST MAIN STREET, CASTLEREA Tel: 094 962 0055 • Fax: 094 96 21746 •

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A public meeting will be held by the ‘Save Roscommon’ campaign group at the Athlone Springs Hotel, Monksland, on January 11, at 8 pm. At the request of of local councillor Tony Ward, a special meeting of Roscommon County Council will be also be held on January 6. There is anger in large parts of south Roscommon over the possibility of the area being governed by Westmeath County Council in the near future. Environment Minister Alan Kelly wants the Athlone area to be the sole responsibility of one local authority – at present, Westmeath and Roscommon county councils share the duty. He has established a boundary commission to decide which one should fulfill the duty, and they are due to report by the end of March. Save Roscommon is a grassroots movement that strongly opposes any plans for the county to lose control to the neighbouring midlands county.

Out of Hours Service, contact: 086 2832273

Gerald’s artwork included in Texaco calendar! A painting by six-year-old Roscommon student Gerald Greene, from Roxboro National School, Derrane, has been chosen to illustrate the 2016 Texaco Children’s Art Calendar. One of 13 chosen to illustrate the publication, Gerald’s colourful piece, entitled ‘Spring On My Farm’, will appear during the month of April and will be seen in thousands of homes throughout Ireland in 2016. Winning a Special Merit Award in the 6years and under age category of the 2015

competition, it was one of a number said to perfectly reflect the incredible talent and imagination of children and the essential role played by schools who encourage and inspire their students through art education. Over recent months, Gerald’s work has featured in exhibitions held in Belfast, Cork, Drogheda and Dublin. Calendars are currently available through a select number of Texaco service stations countrywide and through Texoil, Valero’s home-heating oil division.

Open Sunday 12 - 6 pm Personalised Calendars available – the perfect Christmas Gift GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE – The Ideal Christmas Gift

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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Fiat Professional wins four major accolades at Commercial Fleet awards FIAT Professional, which is available at Central Motors, has been named ‘Van Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’ for the second consecutive year in the 2015 Commercial Fleet Awards, one of four major awards won by FIAT Professional at a gala event held at The International Centre in Telford recently. FIAT Professional was also named ‘Green Fleet Manufacturer of the Year’ for 2015, building on its ‘Highly Commended’ award in 2014, while the FIAT Fiorino scooped the ‘City Van of the Year’ title for the fourth year in a row. The recently-launched FIAT Doblò Cargo took the hotly-contested ‘Small Van of the Year’ award and the new FIAT Ducato was ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘Large Panel Van of the Year’ category. Competing vehicles are compared across a number of vital fleet criteria, including payload and versatility; safety and technology; fuel efficiency and emissions;

reliability and dealer backup; comfort and performance and, of course, overall running costs. Commenting on FIAT Professional’s Green Fleet Manufacturer of the Year Award, the judges noted: “FIAT Professional has a wide range of low emission vehicles, including viable petrol options on some models. It offers a holistic approach to the environment which encompasses its production techniques, van recyclability, stop-start technology and dashboard software which monitors driving behaviour.” The judges also noted enhancements to eco:Drive which enables a fleet to enter parameters such as load weight to analyse its impact on fuel efficiency and emissions. The significant haul of awards reflects the efforts being made by FIAT Professional to not only constantly improve its product line-up in a way which benefits its customers in the real world, it also recognises

the ongoing strides the brand is making in terms of the range and quality

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The annual Commercial Fleet Awards, now in its eighth year, recognise the accomplishments of vehicle manufacturers, fleet operators and suppliers and are highly coveted by the light commercial vehicle industry. Drop into Central Motors in Mohill, Co. Leitrim and take the Fiat Professional for a test drive today.

Dairy farmers to get ‘funding top-up’ before Christmas Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan has said that the funding top-up of €1,350 for dairy farmers Co. Roscommon will be an important boost at the end of what has been a difficult year. “This direct aid package for the dairy and pig sectors of €27.4 million, unveiled by Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney, is made up of €13.7 million of EU funding and a further €13.7 million in matching national funding,” he said. “The payment will be made on a flat rate basis and means that dairy farmers in will each receive approximately €1,350. This top-up funding is to be made to farmers before Christmas and I know it will be an important boost to them, particularly as many are experiencing cash-flow problems. “€1 million of the overall package will be reserved for the pig sector and how this will be divided will be decided shortly. “There will be an additional €800 top-up for young dairy farmers, which will be made in early 2016. “This has been a very difficult year for the dairy and pigmeat sectors in Ireland and I know that farmers here in Roscommon and Leitrim have been feeling the effects of the market downturn. Speaking to farmers, I know that cashflow has been a particular problem. “Minister Coveney has been working to ensure that dairy and pigmeat farmers in receive additional support.”

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople

FLOOD FORCES ELDERLY PEOPLE TO LEAVE HOMES Fine Gael General Election candidate

Councillor Maura Hopkins is delighted to announce that her

new ofﬁces in Roscommon town and Ballaghaderreen are now open Ofﬁce Opening Hours are Monday to Thursday, 10am-4pm

Castle Street, Roscommon town Phone number 090 66 30474

Friday 10am-1pm

Main Street, Ballaghaderreen Email: cllrmaurahopkins@gmail.com

Fresh Thinking, Capable Voice, Real Results

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Several elderly people have been forced to leave their homes in south Roscommon because of extreme flooding. While the level of water has receded in many areas in the county over the past week, flooding remains rife in areas in both south and north Roscommon, where the rivers Suck and Shannon are located. The south Roscommon areas of Clonown, Barrymore, Hodson Bay and Creagh were particularly adversely affected. Last weekend, water entered about four or five homes at Curraghnaboll, Clonown, and at Cappaleitrim, Moore, forcing the home owners to leave. “While the number is limited, it is a significant inconvenience for the families involved,” said local councillor John Naughten. “Most of them would be older people. In a number of locations also, people are having difficulty accessing homes.” Flooding is prevalent at the Clonown area on an annual basis, but the latest incident is the worst since 2009. “There is a level of frustration with people that it has repeated itself to the same extent as 2009,” said Cllr. Naughten, of Fine Gael. A house at Birchgrove, Creagh, near

Addressing the flooding last week. Picture: Andrew Fox

Ballinasloe, was also flooded last weekend, to the intense sadness of the owner, Maureen Calahan, whom local councillor Ivan Connaughton met. “Water came off the land and couldn’t get away where it would previously and flooded the house,” he said. Two other houses at the area almost suffered a similar fate, he said.

The news was far more positive in relation to Athleague, which was completely flooded during the early part of last week. However, the waters reduced significantly and the main road through the village (RoscommonGalway, N63) was reopened on Thursday, December 10, after a huge effort by residents by tackle the flood

Fitzmaurice: Sensible approach needed to deal with ﬂooding problems During Leaders’ Questions in the Dáil last Thursday, Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice appealed to the Government to take a more sensible approach to the flooding problems that are being experienced in the country. “The number of outdoor staff being employed by councils throughout the country is down 50 per cent in the past number of years,” he said. He said that that was evident at the height of the recently flooding, when there “nowhere near enough people to go out and carry out remedial works”. Deputy Fitzmaurice hit out at what he said was a lack of dredging and cleaning of rivers and drains. “We have to stop taking orders from Europe and clean our river and drains and that would help in a lot of cases,” he said. “There are far too many bodies who are issuing instructions on matters like these and a lot of problems could be solved if we carry out such works on our own initiative and not be answering to the EU and others all the time. “Too much money is being

Roscommon County Council staff rig up an additional pump to keep the footpath in Athleague clear of water last week. Picture: Andrew Fox

wasted on consultants and people writing reports. The Government must act on this problem now. “The authorities in the UK em-

barked on a programme of river cleaning and dredging after severe flooding a number of years ago and it has worked. “We can do the same here.”

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople Comhairle Chontae Roscomáin ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

----------------–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––-

Christmas Opening Hours Date

Office Hours

Wednesday, 23rd December, 2015

9.30 am – 2.00 pm –

1.00 pm 5.30 pm

Motor Tax / Payments Office/ Planning

9.30 am – 2.00 pm –

1.00 pm 4.30 pm

Thursday, 24th December – Wednesday, 30th December, 2015

9.30 am – 2.00 pm –

1.00 pm 5.30 pm

Motor Tax / Payments Office

9.30 am – 2.00 pm –

1.00 pm 3.30 pm

Planning

9.30 am – 2.00 pm –

1.00 pm 4.30 pm

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Roscommon Town were Daniel, Leah and Pete Gillooly. Picture: Andrew Fox

9.30 am – 2.00 pm –

1.00 pm 5.30 pm

Motor Tax/ Payments Office/ Planning

9.30 am – 2.00 pm –

1.00 pm 4.30 pm

Opening Hours

Wednesday, 23rd December, 2015 Ballaghaderreen, Boyle & Roscommon

10.00 am – 2.00 pm –

1.00 pm 5.00 pm

Castlerea

10.00 am – 1.30pm –

12.00 noon 4.30 pm

Ballinasloe ‘boil water’ notice lifted The temporary ‘boil water’ notice that had been in place in Ballinasloe has been lifted. The notice was placed on December 7 as a precautionary measure because of damage to the system caused by bad weather, but has now been

1.30 pm – 4.30 pm –

4.00 pm 7.00 pm

HSE’S PLANS FOR REBUILD: PAGE 5

Strokestown

1.00 pm – 5.30 pm –

5.00 pm 7.30 pm

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

CLOSED

Thursday, 31st December, 2015 (New Year’s Eve) Ballaghaderreen, Boyle & Roscommon

1.00 pm –

8.00 pm

Castlerea

1.00 pm – 6.00 pm –

5.00 pm 8.00 pm

Elphin

CLOSED

Strokestown

CLOSED

Friday, 1st January, 2016

CLOSED

removed. “This is good news for the people of the area who have had enough to worry about in recent weeks with the massive flooding that has devastated many areas in the locality,” said local Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice.

Maths challenge for local students The eagerly-anticipated All-Ireland maths challenge that has taken Ireland by storm for the past two years is back, with a prize fund of €20,000 for students and schools. Originally called MATHletes, the goal of the challenge is to increase students’ competence and confidence in maths, and to date, 285 students in Roscommon have participated. MATHletes is returning in 2016 with a new name: LearnStorm Ireland. Starting in January, students in Roscommon can earn recognition for themselves and their schools by mastering maths skills on Khan Academy. LearnStorm Ireland has €20,000 in prizes up for grabs as students from across the 32 counties compete. The challenge is open to all students from 4th class to 5th year and officially kicks off on January 29th. Visit learnstorm.ie to learn more.

Hopkins raises Sacred Heart Hospital with Varadkar

Elphin

Thursday, 24th December – Wednesday, 30th December, 2015

Those who attended the meeting said that they were not hopeful that Aurivo would change its mind. Oliver Donagher, who chaired the meeting, said that he feared the community’s call would “fall on deaf ears”.

CLOSED

Monday, 4th January, 2016

Branch Libraries

More than 80 people attended a public meeting at Croghan, near Boyle, on Monday night against the closure of Aurivo’s Home Agri Store at the village. The company announced in October that it would close the store at the end of this month due to commercial reasons.

CLOSED

Thursday, 31st December, 2015 (New Year’s Eve)

Friday, 1st January, 2016 (New Year’s Day)

Call for re-opening of Croghan store to ‘fall on deaf ears’?

Cllr. Maura Hopkins met with Health Minister Leo Varadkar last week to discuss the future of the Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon town. The future of the State-run nursing home remains uncertain after the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) said in the summer that it continued to be short of modern health regulations. Following a recent extension of time to comply with guidelines, the

facility must be essentially rebuilt, at a cost of €13 million, by 2021. Cllr. Hopkins, Fine Gael’s General Election candidate in Roscommon-Galway, was accompanied by Dr John Barton, her Director of Elections, for her meeting with the Minister last week. Cllr. Hopkins said that she emphasised the importance of €13 million being urgently provided to the Sacred Heart Hospital re-design project The Minister said that he was aware of the importance of the facility, but that it was one of many State-run nursing homes that required an upgrade. “Work on many of the 100 or more public nursing homes, caring for

around 7,000 residents, cannot be done overnight,” he said. Minister Varadkar said that the Health Service Executive were assessing and prioritising plans regarding upgrade of these homes. The Government have announced the allocation of €300 million in the capital plan and a further €150 million through public-private partnerships in order to upgrade many olderstyle nursing homes. No funds have yet been allocated to the Roscommon centre. Cllr. Hopkins, of Fine Gael, said: “I am fully aware that urgent decisions need to be made and will continue to do everything I can in respect of the Sacred Heart Hospital.”

Saturday, 2nd January, 2016 Ballaghaderreen, Boyle & Roscommon

10.00 am – 2.00 pm –

1.00 pm 5.00 pm

Castlerea

10.00 am – 2.00 pm –

12.00 noon 4.30 pm

Elphin

11.00 am –

2.00 pm

Strokestown

10.00 am –

1.00 pm

John O’ Rourke A/Director of Services

Fine Gael councillor Maura Hopkins with (left) Dr John Barton, her Director of Elections for the General Election, and Health Minister Leo Varadkar last week.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople

Pictured at the Roscommon Cancer Support Centre Christmas Market in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Molly Tully and Katie Glennon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Your chance to buy jerseys signed by Alex and Paul! A fundraising auction for Ballymoe FC pitch development will be held in the Grove Lounge, Ballymoe on Monday night, 28th December. Among the lots up for auction are an Ireland rugby jersey signed by former captain, Paul Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell and a Manchester United jersey signed by legendary manager, Alex Ferguson. There will also be plenty of other lots and prizes up for grabs so come along and support the club and get a bargain at the same time. The club would sincerely like to thank everyone who has kindly donated items for the auction. All support for the club is really appreciated.

Alex Ferguson

Paul Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople

12 days of Christmas ﬁre safety A safety message from Roscommon County Council Day 1 - Water fresh trees daily. If you’re using a real tree, buy a fresh tree and keep the base of the trunk in water at all times. Keep your tree away from any ignition source such as the fireplace, heaters or candles. Day 2 - Check all sets of lights before decorating. Before you put those lights on the tree or around the front window check the cords closely. Discard any sets that are frayed or damaged. Day 3 - Make sure you have working smoke alarms. With family and friends spending extra time at your home over the holidays, it’s a great time to check your smoke alarms.

Day 8 - When you go out, blow out! Candles can set the perfect mood for a holiday celebration, but remember to always blow out candles before leaving the room or going to bed. Keep lit candles safely away from children and pets and anything that can burn, such as curtains, upholstery, or holiday decorations.

Day 4 - Make sure you have working carbon monoxide alarms. Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odourless gas that can quickly kill you. Installing carbon monoxide alarms in your home will alert you to the presence of this deadly gas.

Day 9 - Keep matches and lighters out of the sight and reach of children. People often keep matches and lighters to light holiday candles. But matches and lighters can be deadly in the hands of children. If you smoke, have only one lighter or box of matches and keep them with you at all times.

Day 5 - Make sure everyone knows how to get out safely if a fire occurs. Develop and practise a home fire escape plan with all members of the household. Once outside, stay outside and call 999 or 112 from a mobile phone or neighbours house.

Day 10 - Watch what you heat! The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year, which means it’s easy to get distracted from what we are doing. Cooking fires most commonly occur when cooking is left unattended. Always stay in the kitchen when cooking.

Day 6 - Use extension cords wisely. People often use extension cords for that extra set of lights or the dancing Santa in the corner. Extension cords should be used only as a temporary connection. Make sure cords never go under rugs as this can cause damage to the cord and cause a fire.

Day 11 - Encourage smokers to smoke outside. Careless smoking is the leading cause of fatal fires. If you do allow smoking indoors use large, deep ashtrays that can’t be knocked over and make sure cigarette butts are properly extinguished.

Day 7 - Give space heaters space. If you are using space heaters to help take the chill off, remember to keep them at least one metre (3 feet) away from anything that can burn such as curtains, upholstery, or holiday decorations.

Day 12 - There’s more to responsible drinking than taking a taxi home. With all the festive cheer this time of year, keep a close eye on anyone attempting to cook or smoke while under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol is all too often a common factor in many fatal fires.

Heart fundraiser in Kilmore on January 2 On September 30, PJ Hoare suffered heart problems at his home at Carnadoe, Kilmore, Co. Roscommon, and was rushed to Sligo Regional Hospital for treatment. The 63-year-old, a retired butcher, was then transferred to St James’ Hospital, Dublin, where he underwent quadruple bypass surgery. Subsequently, he was brought to another Dublin hospital, St Luke’s, for recovery. He made an excellent recovery and returned home on October 30, exactly a month after his ordeal began. “The service was so good that I thought I would raise money for the Irish Heart

Pictured at the Roscommon Cancer Support Centre Christmas Market in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Isabelle Greene and Margaret Gibbons Greene. Picture: Andrew Fox

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

CIVIC AMENITY SITES

Christmas Opening Arrangements Ballaghaderreen, Boyle, Castlerea and Roscommon Civic Amenity Sites will be open on the following days between 8am - 1pm and 1:30pm - 4pm: Note that Roscommon CAS will remain open between 1pm and 1:30pm Monday 21st, Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd December Tuesday 29th, Wednesday 30th and Thursday 31st December The sites will be closed Thursday 24th – Monday 28th December 2015 and also Friday 1st and Saturday 2nd January 2016. The Sites will re-open for business as usual on Monday 4th January 2016 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUERIES PLEASE CALL 09066 – 37260

Foundation,” said PJ. Having made contact with the foundation, he has arranged to hold a fundraising fun night at the Kilmore Inn on Saturday, January 2, at 10 pm. “It will be a great wind-down after Christmas and the New Year’s Eve celebrations,” said PJ. “We have lots of music lined up and a number of surprise guests will appear.” A mini-auction will also be held, with these duties to be performed by Brian Carroll, the Secretary of Roscommon County Board. A thoroughly entertaining evening is assured – all for a very worthy cause.

Former Glenamaddy school to be community hub < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A new enterprise, training and education centre is set to be opened around Christmas-time in Glenamaddy, with the existing vocational school building being refurbished in order to meet the needs of the community. The project is an initiative between Glenamaddy Community Development Company and Glenamaddy Vocational School Committee, and involves the transformation of the old school building. The town was recently chosen as part of the Rural Economic Development Zone (REDZ) pilot scheme and was allocated €25,000 in funding. The Glenamaddy REDZ Zone includes 17 district electoral division (DEDs), which are identical to the catchment area of Glena-

The former Vocational School in Glenamaddy which is set to become a new enterprise, training and education centre.

maddy Community School. The Galway-Roscommon Education and Training Board support the project. Local councillor Des Joyce (Independent) said that the project was moving swiftly and would be completed in the coming weeks. “Time is definitely not on our side in that the funding came late and we have to have it used up before the end of the year,” he said. “But it is a fine building

and it is just a matter of it getting a fresh lick of paint, going through the building and making sure it is 100 per cent. “We are at the stage where we are painting and getting the heat on. We would be hoping to have it open around Christmas-time or afterwards.” Cllr. Joyce said that activities were already arranged to take place at the venue, including a training school, music events and a revision academy.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople Cois ChlĂĄir, Claregalway, Co. Galway Tel: 091 739 517 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 091 739 566 â&#x20AC;˘ Mobile: 087 122 5292 E-Mail: info@dmclaims.ie www.dmclaims.ie

Has your Home or Business been affected by the recent storms/flooding? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Protecting the Policyholder when Loss / Damage occurs to their Propertyâ&#x20AC;?

â&#x20AC;˘ Burst Pipes / Water Damage â&#x20AC;˘ Storm â&#x20AC;˘ Flood â&#x20AC;˘ Lightning etc â&#x20AC;˘ Fire/Chimney Damage â&#x20AC;˘ Smoke Damage â&#x20AC;˘ Burglary, etc. Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Castlecoote were Martina, Alanna and Erin Cleary. Picture: Andrew Fox

New Elphin Garda Station opens

CALL FOR RESOURCES TO RUN IT

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The newly-built Elphin Garda Station recently opened â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but a local councillor has called for more resources to run it. The north Roscommon town had been without a garda station since May of last year, following the closure of the previous station. The building had been leased by the Office of Public Works, but that expired last year. This led to the closure of the station, causing much unrest in the community, with numerous public protests held. Last December, it was announced that Elphin would get

a new station, which would located on a new site, opposite the Church in the town. This building was built several months ago and became operational on November 14. Staffed solely by Garda Pat Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Grady, it has no fixed hours. Cllr. Valerie Byrne, an Independent, said that she was â&#x20AC;&#x153;delightedâ&#x20AC;? that the station was open. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It has been a long battle,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What we will be looking for now is an extra Garda for Elphin. I am calling for extra GardaĂ to be installed and that the Garda station open full-time.â&#x20AC;?

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Eight per cent fall in jobless rate locally There was a big drop in the number of people unemployed in Co. Roscommon last month, figures provided by the Central Statistics Office have shown. In November, there were 3,136 people in the county on the Live Register, a fall of 88 from the 3,224 who signed on in October. There was a fall in each of the social

welfare districts in the county: there was a drop of 19 in Boyle, from 819 to 800; Castlerea had a drop of 43, from 1,403 to 1,360; Roscommon townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rate reduced by 26, from 1,002 to 976. All told, last month there were over 8 per cent less people on the Live Register than at the same time last year, when 3,420 signed on.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

FF Convention this Sunday < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The saga over who will represent Fianna Fáil in the RoscommonGalway constituency in the General Election is nearing an end, with the Selection Convention to be held on this Sunday, December 20. On Wednesday afternoon, the party finally announced the details for the convention: it will be held at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town, with voting taking place from 3 pm to 5 pm. The winner will be declared shortly after. A total of 640 members from throughout the constituency are eligible to vote. They will be asked to decide to choose whether they want Cllr. Eugene Murphy or Ballintubber man Seán Óg Higgins to represent the party in the fight for a seat in Dáil Éireann. The long-awaited announcement

brings to an end weeks of speculation. At the beginning of October, the party disclosed that ten candidates had been nominated to contest the convention. All but Cllr. Murphy and Mr Higgins gradually pulled out of the race. The long delay in staging a convention led to speculation that the party hierarchy would impose their own candidate, but that has now proven unfounded. Mr Higgins (25), the chairman of the Roscommon branch of Ógra Fianna Fáil, said that he was “delighted” to hear Wednesday’s news. “It puts all of the rumour and speculation to bed,” he said. “It is what the voting members want – a convention. It will be great to have the candidate out there before Christmas.” A newcomer to the political arena, Mr Higgins urged party members to place their trust in

him on Sunday evening. “They need to vote for the candidate that has the best chance of getting elected for Fianna Fáil,” he said. “I think people want a young, fresh face and an enthusiastic candidate.” Cllr. Murphy (56), a councillor since 1985, has contested several Fianna Fáil conventions in the past. He said that he was confident of victory this time. “I am very confident,” he said. “I have a massive campaign put in.” He also said that he was “thrilled” that a convention was being held. “It is what I always wanted,” said Cllr. Murphy. “I always in my mind felt that that was going to happen. I am looking forward to Sunday. “I want to wish Seán Óg the best of luck. We will have our convention and the delegates will now decide.”

‘Ming’ claimed ineligible Oireachtas expenses – audit < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan paid back over €1,000 after an independent audit of his Oireachtas expenses last year revealed that some expenditure was deemed ineligible. The firm Mazars selected 22 Oireachtas members on a random basis for the 2014 audit – 16 of whose expenditure they

deemed to be eligible. One of those was Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan. However, the audit said: “In our opinion six members selected for the audit were unable to show sufficient receipts/relevant documentation…in respect of a total of €5,176.06 claimed by them during the period under audit. “A full refund by the six members of €5,176.06 in respect of all the above ineligible expenditure claimed was received by the Oireachtas Commission.” One of the members was Mr Flanagan, who was TD for Roscommon-South Leitrim before his election as an MEP in May 2014. The audit said that €1,144.25 of the €6,091.56 claimed by him during the period under audit was “deemed ineligible”. “A refund in respect of the ineligible €1,144.25 was received by the Oireachtas Commission,” the audit added. Pat Fitzpatrick, Mr Flanagan’s parliamentary assistant, said that confusion had arisen between the start of Mr Flanagan’s term as an MEP and the end of his term as a TD. “They questioned every little thing,” he said. “The vast majority of it, we could justify. The bits that we couldn’t justify we were down to changeover – the overlap between the Dáil and the European Parliament.”

I’m sick of ‘Thigh Gap’ Thinspiration We all have different body shapes; just as we all have different hair colours, and, when we use certain social media apps to post selﬁes, some of us tend to alter our images in order to mask our imperfections… Omg this bloody obsession with ‘thinspiration’ and the ‘must have’ thigh gap has got to stop right now. I’m sooooo over it and model turned wife of Brian (McFadden), then turned estranged wife of Brian, turned, ahem, TV presenter, now turned body-obsessed publicity junkie Vogue Williams needs to stop flooding social media with images of herself half-naked and sporting a gap between her thighs that is so impossibly large you could drive the ‘Holidays Are Coming,’ Christmas advert’s artic through it and then deny she has airbrushed herself purring “I don’t even know how to use Photoshop.” Seriously? Come on Vogue, I’m not saying I disbelieve you lovey but my 73-year-old technophobe dad and my 8-year-old granddaughter both know how to use Photoshop…in fact my granddaughter can re-programme our Sky box; so how come a socially-savvy self-publicist like yourself doesn’t know how to use it? Vogue, who was showing off the fruits of her ‘six days a week’ gym

workouts posted an extremely, let’s just say, slim looking, photo of herself and then, I would assume, sat back, sipped delicately on a bottle of water, binged on a lettuce leaf and waited for her 89,000 followers to make their comments – and make them they did by accusing her of altering the gap between her permanently tanned thighs. Bingo! Now, for a woman who says she visits the gym as a form of therapy in order to help her battle her anxiety and the stresses of, what we mere mortals call, ‘everyday life’ insisting “It’s the only place where you are totally stuck in your own head for an hour,” I have to say Vogue dear, it’s a sad, sad day when someone as talented and as beautiful as you feels the need to enhance their career through flooding the internet with half naked selfies…and by the way, it is my opinion that people who do this are not so much totally stuck in their heads darling, rather they are more stuck up their own arxxs! Besides, what’s the point in posing half naked if you’re not getting admired; I mean you didn’t trim that bikini line so that you couldn’t have an audience now did you diddums? Now personally, and pardon me readers while I unhinge my jaw before I capture my prey, but I am sick of seeing thousands of selfie postings showcasing strategically placed skinny legs artfully displaying the sun shining through them with the #thighgap heading underneath…I mean who’d have thought a massive ‘must have’ space between your legs

From My Kitchen Table MIRIAM KERINS would generate such controversy among those wannabe Z listers who really should be more concerned about the massive gap that’s widening between their ears; a gap that is often so large their earrings must surely clang together. I will add here that I like Vogue; in fact many years ago when I was editor of B wedding magazine and Vogue was but a fledgling young model, I chose her to front my featured fashion spread photoshoot and she was a delight to work with; friendly, fun and fabulous and it was obvious back then that she would go far; and I’m thrilled for her. However, continuously posting what looks like unachievable body images that could negatively influence young girls is, I would say, going just that step too far; perhaps I’m wrong. But you see folks, I would imagine that these altered, or as Vogue insists, unaltered images of oneself – especially when one is in the spotlight – could potentially lead impressionable young adolescent girls and even older

women into developing destructive eating disorders because the only way to achieve a much-desired ‘thigh gap’ that large is to be severely underweight. I mean why not just go the whole hog and bind your massive clown feet while you’re at it ladies. Now please do not think that I am ‘body shaming’ ultra-thin women, I’m not. To be honest I’ve been slagged and accused on many occasions of not eating because, according to some people, I’m apparently “too thin.” For the record I’m not too thin, I’m just naturally petite, many people are; many people are not, just in the same way as many people (I’m formerly one of them) come from a place called Peroxide…blonde on mammy’s side, blonde on daddy’s side; again, something that was also fake (as far as I was concerned) and impossible to maintain; a la the thigh gap! What I’m trying to say is, we all have different body shapes; just as we all have different hair colours, and, when we use certain social media apps to post selfies, some of us tend to alter our images in order to mask our imperfections in the same way we alter our hair colour to mask our greying roots. At the end of the day, we all have a personal beauty that is unique to our individual selves, and we should try to be proud. However, what we do not have is this warped, disturbing and distorting ‘naturally’ ultra-thin cavity nestling between our thighs; okay, some of us have a space where our thighs don’t meet, but what is

important to remember is that most of us have thighs that do touch and because we live in a climate of rampant cynicism and worry ourselves sick that we won’t live up to the so called idyll, (as displayed by some celebrity bloggers) we begin to trick ourselves into believing that we are pursuing perfection and become intoxicated with achieving the impossible; instead what we are doing is making ourselves not just emotionally ill but damaging our physical health into the bargain. When these celebs portray themselves as perfection personified using distorted and obscured images accompanied by what I call antiseptic language to frame their postings with words that neutralise the stark truth, which is NONE of us, not one single, solitary person… super models included, are that buff without the aid of cosmetic surgery, filters, Photoshop or all three. There is no such thing as the perfect human body! My advice to all readers this Christmas is to enjoy yourselves and enjoy your families and to bear in mind that those of you who may go to great lengths to alter your images when you post the party photos will probably never, ever be happy with your appearance or with your bodies and I hate to sound harsh but you see, here’s the thing; it’s about bloody time that you, me, the girl next door, the girl up the road, super models and Vogue all realised that life is sometimes harsh and it is never anything like they said it would be in the brochure.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople

Over 3,000 on waiting lists at County Hospital < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Over 3,000 people are on the waiting lists for procedures at Roscommon Hospital, newly-released figures have shown. The National Treatment Purchased Fund’s data shows that, at the end of November, 2,201 people were waiting for outpatient procedues, while 942 were waiting for inpatient/day case treatment.

A total of 103 patients were waiting for outpatient procedures for over 18 months, a further 59 for 15-18 months and another 107 for 12-15 months. A total 101 patients were waiting sixnine months for inpatient/day cases at the end of November, namely 97 for plastic surgery, three for vascular surgery and one for general surgery. Following a direction from Health Minister Leo Varadkar, the Health

Service Executive recently introduced fines for hospitals who had patients on their waiting lists for over 18 months. As a result, in October, Roscommon Hospital was fined €75,000: €70,293 over its inpatient list, and €5,077 over its inpatient/day case list. However, the hospital’s November figures reveal that it has yet to maintain compliance with the new rule.

TD: ‘Act on Garda Report’ Roscommon County Hospital.

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has said that the Garda Inspectorate Report which says that up to 1,500 Gardaí could be freed from desk jobs to go out on the beat is a vindication of the stance he has been

taking on the question of Garda resources over the past year. “This report should be acted upon by (Justice) Minister Fitzgerald and the Government immediately,” said Deputy Fitzmaurice.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Paul Healy on a dodgy plumber with attitude; Mario and Willie’s duet; the wilting X Factor; the Minister for People Being More Important Than Fish…and Seamus Sweeney and Sam… It could have happened… Looking back, we should never have got that plumber in. He was down from Dublin, looking for a bit of work, and – regrettably – we asked him to do a few odd jobs around our house. Fair enough, he was full of enthusiasm, hyper in fact, but from the very beginning I thought he had a bit of attitude. On day one, he tackled our bathroom, and I was rightly put out when, instead of fixing the shower, he seemed to spend the whole day preening his rather over-the-top ginger beard. Weird, I remember thinking. We should never have hired that plumber. By day two I had no option but to tell him to get a move on, get his act together. He responded by glaring at me and then suddenly adopting a bizarre pose, whereby he crouched down like some maniac, making himself no taller than the kitchen sink that he was meant to be unblocking. You’re an idiot, I muttered, you’ll be on the scrapheap in a year or two. By day three, my patience was really wearing thin. None of our plumbing problems had been sorted, and by now the hairy poser was almost out of control. We came home from work for a bite to eat at lunchtime and he was somersaulting around the kitchen and karate-kicking the cat. There was absolutely no need for that. I had to challenge this useless plumber, once I got him to stand still. “You’re no good” I said, “you’ll never get anywhere in life.” Undeterred, he jumped onto our couch and began punching cushions furiously. “You’re not worth whatever few bob you plan to charge” I said. “About five million” he said with a strange smile, “and by the way, I will fix that bath – failure is not an option.” I was on the point of giving him an early bath. By day four it was just getting ridiculous. We came home to find the self-styled ‘Dublin’s finest plumber’ prancing around on the trampoline in the garden, rebounding off the netting and waving his fists manically. “I belong in this ring” he bellowed at me, doing that now familiar annoying glare of his. I’d had enough. If I wasn’t such a pacifist I’d have clattered him, and I can’t imagine he’d have mustered much resistance. I decided to pay him off. I reached for the chequebook. “Make it out to Conor,” he said, as he

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Castlecoote were Patrick Gordon, Jack O’Gara, Will O’Gara and Harry Gordon. Picture: Andrew Fox

held our cat down in some ludicrous wrestling grip. “Conor McGregor… and remember the name.” Yeah, right. I’ve heard of dodgy tradesmen, but that guy was just notorious.

Saturday The old Sky Plus thing is great all the same. Recording stuff is handy when you’re too busy to see it in ‘real time’ – as we are at this time of year. So we record bits and pieces and then when the Roscommon People is out in the shops, we might catch up later in the week. I worked Saturday, so I had to record the draw for EURO 2016. I still haven’t checked to see how the Republic of Ireland got on, but as long as we avoided Italy (I’m nervous about them) I’m happy. Oh, and as long as we avoided the number one team in the world as well, then great. And as long as we avoided that team that Ibrahimovic plays for as well, we should be alright. I also recorded the Conor McGregor fight. I don’t bother with the long introductions, so I set it to record after about 20, or maybe 14 or 15, seconds into the bout. Can’t wait to watch it…

Some night, then repeated… I have been avoiding Mario Rosenstock’s new TV series – because I

generally don’t find it funny. To be fair to Mr. Rosenstock and Oliver Callan, their emergence into our lives in recent years has been very welcome. Post the ‘breakfast roll boom’ and the collapse that followed it, the people of Ireland were given one choice. Laugh or cry. Mario and Oliver at least gave us the option of laughing sometimes. They were very funny, they held ‘important people’ up to ridicule, and it was sharp comedy that worked. On radio. Unfortunately, I don’t think their exploits transfer that well to television. I did come across Mario’s show the other night and, once again, most of it fell flat. Taking Rosenstock’s ‘impressions’ to television has led to, at best, hit and miss comedy, I feel. His ‘Vincent Browne’ is woefully unfunny. On the other hand, or other wig, his ‘Miriam O’Callaghan’ is very good. His ‘Marty Morrissey’ makes for rather compelling viewing. I credit Mario and his team on some very inventive ideas for sketches, but taking his comedy from radio to television isn’t the smoothest transition. As with any impressionist, the effect suffers when they don’t particularly physically resemble the subject of their impression. Still, the series has its moments. The other night I thought the cringe factor would be unbearable when I saw Mario, as Joan Burton, preparing to sing a duet with the real Willie O’Dea.

As it turned out, for some weird reason, their version of ‘I Got You Babe’ turned out to be quite funny. Of course some people would say that Willie O’Dea has been doing a comedy routine for years.

Sunday We haven’t bothered with the wilting X Factor this year (I find it lacks the suspense of Telly Bingo). But, with a bug ‘going around’ and checking in on most of us, we saw a fair bit of telly in recent days – and just happened to come across the final moments of the final of the X Factor. If you missed it, here are the highlights: Lots of screaming/you just nailed it/ad breaks/are you nervous?/I just want to thank everyone who voted for me/do you know, I can’t call this…it’s that close… Followed by… I’ve dreamt about this day all my life/I cannot speak/It feels like I’m living a dream/Oh my God!/This is surreal, etc. What that translates into is that some new wannabee emerged from the pack. Mind you, she’s a nice singer, and I wish her well. As for the judges, Simon Cowell looked as smug as ever and I must say that Louis Walsh must have had ‘something done’ as he looks younger than ever. Oh, don’t say they replaced poor Louis?

Tuesday According to a headline on a two-page spread in today’s Irish Independent, Minister Simon Harris has declared that “people are more important than fish.” Just to clarify: “People are more important than fish.” I’m impressed. It’s leadership. In the war against flooding, I suppose it’s a start…

Tuesday Fair play to new County Board Chairperson Seamus Sweeney, who has declared, as he takes up the reins, that winning the Sam Maguire Cup remains the ultimate goal for Roscommon. I could understand why there was a bit of an outcry when former manager John Evans spoke of winning ‘Sam’ within five years. While I liked Evans’ blunt style, that was kind of putting pressure on his young players. It was almost imposing a deadline, certainly creating a hostage to fortune. It’s quite a different thing for our premier GAA office-holder to clearly state where our ambition lies. Sure, there’s no short-term prospect of winning Sam, but Seamus Sweeney is absolutely right to remind the Roscommon GAA family of the ‘ultimate goal.’ After all, we consider ourselves to be a serious GAA county. We are a serious GAA county. And hasn’t winning Sam been our ‘goal’ since the first ball was thrown in at the start of the 1945 Championship?

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople

‘Palliative care can prolong a life and it can enhance the quality of that life’ NEWS FEATURE < PAUL HEALY

ohn Bowens had good reason to love his house, his home. The Bowens family have lived there since the late 18th century. John himself was born there in 1931. He and his wife Mary had just shy of fifty years of married life there. He had been born there, he had lived there, and it was his wish that he would die there.

itting across from me in the Abbey Hotel are Mary Bowens and her daughter, Marie Gillooly. Outside, it’s very cold, but pleasant. Christmas is beginning to take us all into its embrace, and ‘the Abbey’ is warm and festive. We order coffee and scones and begin our chat. The purpose of the interview is to highlight the scale and quality of the local palliative care service. Hundreds of families have reason to avail of it in hospitals, and some people avail of it in the home. Perhaps not enough families realise just how beneficial the service ‘in the home’ can be. Perhaps not enough families know enough about palliative care, about the great marriage of medical care and emotional support that it is. Like thousands of families throughout Ireland, the Bowens family in Strokestown reached a point in their lives where palliative care suddenly had a presence. They were greatly impressed and hugely comforted by their experience of the service. Now the family wants to “give something back” to the Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice. They want to spread awareness about the service, highlight what’s available, see if others can be helped by reading the story of their very personal experience.

veryone in Strokestown, and many people elsewhere, knew John J. Bowens. He was born in Curskeagh, just outside the town. They knew him in football circles and they knew him in farming circles. They knew him through his love of music (he was a member of the Choir in both Strokestown and Kiltrustan Churches). They knew him as a neighbour and friend. In his youth, he was a keen footballer, and throughout his life he had a great interest in amateur drama and music. Some knew him through his passion for hunting and shooting (“he shot for the kitchen table!” says Mary). Sociable and outgoing, he enjoyed a pint and a bit of craic, usually in Pat McHugh’s or Leo Caslin’s. John married Mary (nee McNamara, from The Walk, Roscommon). They had four children: Patrick, Marie, Aileen and Sinead. John Bowens was a big, strong man, a hard worker who was still close to being in his prime when the first signs of illness emerged. It was 1995 when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Treatment in the Mater Private Hospital in Dublin followed. John’s quality of life was good, but when he developed secondary cancer eight years after the initial diagnosis, it was the beginning of a long journey for John and his family. In 2003 it emerged that John had two tumours in the spine. He also had bone cancer. Now he began to receive treatment in hospitals in Sligo and Galway. John’s family were always there for him. Mary and the couple’s four children all formed a support structure. In 2012, there was another setback, when John suffered a stroke. It was a bitterly cold, frosty morning. His son, Patrick, living next door,

looked across at his parents’ house and saw his dad slumped in the yard. “We brought him to Roscommon Hospital and they saved his life there” Mary Bowens recalls. John’s morale remained very good, but his health had now taken a very serious turn and he was fighting illness on a number of fronts…the cancer having spread and the stroke impacting on his speech, his mobility and general quality of life. Through great persistence and the support of his family and doctors, he recovered his speech and mobility. Around this time, an offer of palliative care in the home was available, but the family refused it. Mary Bowens says: “We refused palliative care at that time. That was a mistake. I think people fear that if they accept palliative care, it means the end is coming. But we were wrong to refuse it.” Her daughter, Marie, agrees. “Palliative care, we have discovered, is not necessarily the end of a life…it can be the prolonging of a life and it can enhance the quality of that life.” Instead of opting for palliative care, the family continued to care for John in his own house, a routine that was interspersed with increased hospital stays. Then one day in late 2012 John began to haemorrhage and was rushed to Sligo Hospital, where, in a hectic A&E Department, he had to spend a harrowing nine hours waiting to be tended to. Around this time, and in consultation with John’s medical team, the family agreed to accept palliative care in the home. In practise, this meant weekly visits to the Bowens’ home by a palliative care nurse. Any time there were any new concerns about John’s health, the palliative care team was available, on call ‘24/7.’ “John looked forward to the weekly visit by the nurse,” says Mary. “They were marvellous. They did so much for us. They gave John so much peace of mind.” Mary and Marie explain how much the presence of the palliative care service in their home helped relax John. There was the actual medical care, the emotional support, and invaluable practical advice too. For example, when the time was right, the nurse was able to advise on John settling his affairs. It meant more peace of mind. As Mary points out, many people in these situations haven’t made wills. “People feel if they make a will that they’re going to die the following week” says Mary, a sentiment that people will identify with.

The family’s experience was that the palliative nurses caring for John were very much working in tandem with his GP, and with the hospitalbased experts. Knowledge was being shared. Marie says of the service: “It became a constant balancing act. The nurse religiously called to our house every week; then if we saw a change in him we’d ring in to palliative care and an ambulance would usually arrive within twenty minutes. And when dad got to hospital, he was seen quickly, because there was so much communication…the palliative team were marvellous. They were able to prepare us for what was coming and were improving dad’s quality of life all the time.” By early 2014, John’s condition had weakened further, and the family were called in to speak to his doctors. Although the end was near, he rallied with remarkable resilience. He spent periods in Roscommon Hospital, before summoning the strength to return home again. The family describe the palliative care service in Roscommon Hospital as “excellent.” Friends and neighbours visited John in the hospital and his family smile now at the memory of laughter and jokes, and even the odd song, coming from his bedside. He had a bad turn in June of 2014 and was admitted to the Galway Clinic. After a few weeks there, he returned to Roscommon Hospital in July. But still he wanted to come home. To his own house. The palliative care people got to work. The Bowens’ house was adapted as required; a special bed and a hoist were put in. On a Monday in July, John came back to Strokestown. He was at home now with his wife, and with his children close by. He delighted in the company of his grandchildren. He was able to enjoy his own garden, relax in the most familiar of environments, reminisce with family and friends. The family have no doubt that his being at home meant everything to him. They were two very special months. When the end was near, a palliative care nurse attended nightly, arriving at 11 o’clock and staying until 8 am. It meant that Mary and other family members could get some sleep. “That nurse was an angel on wings” says Marie. On Thursday, September 25, 2014, family members were gathered at John’s bed, praying with him, telling stories. A palliative care nurse whom they hadn’t met before knocked at the door. At first it almost felt intrusive, but when the lady came in “she was unbelievable.” It was another insight into the service. This

nurse organised everything, but still knew precisely when to give the family their personal space. “She was a great support” they say. She “took over”, but in a non-invasive way. They were amazed at how many things family members don’t think of in these end-of-life moments. They saw how these matters are attended to in a professional and sensitive manner by the Hospice service. John passed away at 10 o’clock that night, in a room filled with love. Mary, his wife of 49 years, drew great comfort from the care her husband received. Her advice now is that people should get palliative care “in early” as it brings comfort to the patient and their family, prepares people, and provides peace of mind. “Dad had a great outlook on life and a great outlook on death” says Marie. “He told us that everything was much easier for him once he was able to be at home. And the Hospice staff did everything they could to help make him as comfortable as possible in the home. In the end, he was able to die with dignity at home.” Mary adds: “It was his wish to go home and to die at home and only for the support of the palliative care team it wouldn’t have happened. We are so grateful.” It is one story of one family’s experience. There are many such stories out there in our towns and our villages. There will be more such stories. It is important that families appreciate the service, based on care and dignity, that is available through Mayo/Roscommon Hospice.

ifteen months have passed since John’s death. His family are grieving, but they know everything possible was done for their loved one, and they have the happiest of memories. For his 80th birthday, his family arranged for John to record with Jimmy Hussey. Two CDs were produced, with John singing classics such as ‘Old Man River.’ Another favourite was ‘Star of the County Down.’ For many years, when there were funerals in the Church, the local priests would call on John to sing ‘Going Home.’ Now, at John’s own funeral, the Solstice Choir and the choirs from Strokestown and Kiltrustan all came together, and they sang ‘Going Home’ for John. Going home had always meant everything to him.

John Bowens, RIP.

* For more information on palliative care services locally, contact Mayo/Roscommon Hospice Foundation (Knock, Co. Mayo) on 0949388666, email admin@hospice.ie and/or visit www.hospice.ie

€1,000

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 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)

The Roscommon crest appeared in following advertisements: Week One 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________ Week Two 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________ Week Three 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________ Week Four 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________

ONLY ONE ENTRY PER PERSON -------------------------------

Name: Address:

__________________________ ________________________

____________________________________ Tel. no: ______________________________

How to enter

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. (For a little help, see opposite page!) (Only submit entries after Week Four (THIS WEEK) 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.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People MAIN ST, ROSCOMMON TEL.: (090) 66 25117 Email: info@etlgifts.ie www.etlgifts.ie

There’s €1,000 in vouchers to be won… IN WHOSE ADS WERE THE ROSCOMMON CRESTS HIDDEN? IN SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS, HERE’S SOME EASY CLUES…

Pictured modelling fashion accessories from the ETL Roscommon range at the recent Fashion Show in aid of the Roscommon Camogie Board are from left: Paula Pierse-Miley, Sarah Fitzmaurice, Olivia Molloy and Bridget Moylan.

Over the past four issues of the Roscommon People, readers have been invited to enter a competition in which ten lucky people will each win a €100 voucher to spend in Roscommon town over the Christmas (all details on page 20). Entries must be in by this Saturday. Each week, including in today’s paper, we hid the Roscommon crest in two advertisements from businesses in Roscommon town. To be in with a chance of winning, you must name all eight…but we’ve decided to make it easy for you, with this extremely helpful re-cap! WEEK ONE 1: Go to Church Street and enjoy a sparkling

experience in this dazzling premises (or ‘ring’ in!). 2: Go to Abbeytown, ask to see the President (he’ll be in his Chamber) and enjoy some delicious food and baked goods while you wait! WEEK TWO 1: In the heart of Main Street, super valu(e) is guaranteed in this popular family-owned business… 2: Follow your (four) star and you’ll arrive at Galway Road in a premises so plush you won’t want to leave… WEEK THREE 1: A Main Street landmark which is described as “Roscommon’s Leading Accessory and Giftware Boutique”. You can also do the Lotto and pick up the Roscommon People newspaper. 2: A party favourite on the Athlone Road, it’s a popular venue where you can relax in a familyrun environment… WEEK FOUR (this issue) 1: Go back to Abbeytown and in this friendly store you’ll find everything you need for the household this Christmas…including the turkey! 2: Money makes the world go ‘round: You’ve got all eight – would you Credit it?! Good luck!

CELEBRATING

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Coal Bunkers 150kg €59 M. J. Farrell Jewellers, Church Street, Roscommon Town

Phone: 090 - 6626233

300kg & 600kg Also available

€3.95 each 4 for €15

Wicker Log Cart with Liner €39

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

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me always was going to matches. The broadcasting was only incidental!’ Still going to matches, still as enthusiastic as ever, Micheal O’Muircheartaigh talked Roscommon football during a recent visit here… < SEAMUS DUKE

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He is one of the gems of Irish society. Having spent over 50 years broadcasting Gaelic Games on national radio, Micheal O’Muircheartaigh may have retired, but he’s still going strong. In fact for a man well into his 80’s, he would surely pass for 60 – or certainly not much more. Micheal recently launched the Age Friendly Strategy in Roscommon town and I went along to chat to the great Dingle man about his fantastic career and to glean some of his views on Roscommon and their great players over the years. Micheal was looking ahead to 2016 and the championships when I met him in The Abbey Hotel. “I’m looking forward to the championship in 2016 already. I can’t wait for it to get going again. You can’t beat it” he said with that infectious enthusiasm of his. Micheal has memories from every county in the country and not surprisingly he has great recollections of Roscommon over the years. “I was here in this hotel in 1994 which was the

Cllr Paddy Kilduff presenting Micheal O’Muircheartaigh with a basket of goods, all of which were made in Roscommon. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

The legendary broadcaster, Micheal O’Muircheartaigh, in his heyday.

50th anniversary of the final in 1944 when Roscommon beat Kerry. It was a great night and there were quite a few survivors of the team around that night who have almost all passed away since. “Jimmy Murray said to me that night that – we won in 1943 beating Cavan and in 1944 we beat Kerry and when we came back to Roscommon town on the Monday night the whole population of County Roscommon must have been here!” He said if you were to stand on the platform that night and say that it wouldn’t happen again in another 50 years no one would have believed him - and now it’s over 70 years since. Micheal says that he has many fond memories of various Roscommon teams who have tried

and failed to win an All-Ireland since. It shows how hard it is to win an All-Ireland. Roscommon is a great GAA county. Of course there was a great Kerry connection with that Roscommon team (of 1943/’44) as Jimmy Murray and Brendan Lynch were both married to women from Dingle! “But apart from that team there were some marvellous Roscommon players (over the years). Dermot Earley was as good as any player I’ve seen in any era. Tony McManus was another class players and Harry Keegan too. They were fantastic players and when Roscommon won that four in a row in Connacht they should have won an All-Ireland really. Continued on next page –>

ROSCOMMON CREDIT UNION LTD www.roscommoncreditunion.ie

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For a €500, variable interest rate loan, with 52 weekly repayments of €10.74, and interest rate of 11.9%, a representative APR of 12.6%; the total amount repayable by the member is €530.10.

Information correct as at 01/12/2015. Loans are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. Roscommon Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People Wishing all our customers a

Happy

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Pupils from Castlerea C.S. with teacher Eileen Holland photographed with Michael O’Muircheartaigh at the Age Friendly Strategy launch. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Continued from previous page –> “Then they had a great team in 1990 and 1991 too. Roscommon teams have always had great spirit and they have great followers.” Micheal says that Roscommon must keep trying – and that the signs are good. “Roscommon have some great young players. To win the minor All-Ireland in 2006 and beat Kerry in the final was a marvellous achievement and I would be encouraged to see that Roscommon CBS were in the All-Ireland Colleges ‘A’ Final this year, so there is plenty of young talent in Roscommon. “You always have to have hope. Mayo are very strong but Roscommon can challenge them. The new management team that Roscommon have looks very good.” So does Micheal miss the broadcasting? “Not really. The big attraction for me always was going to matches and that has not changed. I go to as many matches as ever I did now. The broadcasting was only incidental! I am in great health and I am enjoying life going around the country meeting people in every county and walk of life. “Happy Christmas to everyone in Roscommon and may their big day come sooner rather than later!” the great man concluded.

DELIVERING KEROSENE & HEATING OIL TO YOUR HOME

DECLAN GERAGHTY (086) 2543304 ROSCOMMON (090) 6634645 / (087) 9824500 WILLIAMSTOWN (094) 96 43355

MOLLOY’S MAIN STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel.: 090 6626120 or 087 6546512 Micheal O’Muircheartaigh, Gail Murray (Roscommon Leader Partnership) and Michael Scally photographed at the launch of the Age Friendly Strategy Programme. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

CONLON

CONSULTING ENGINEERING LTD Castle Street, Roscommon (Beside Connaught Drycleaners) Closing: Wednesday, 23rd December at 6pm Reopening: Tuesday, 29th December For all your repair & alteration requirements Zips, Hems, Buttons, etc. Alterations to Communion Dresses, Graduation Dresses Bridesmaids Dresses, Wedding Dresses, Curtains, etc. Leather Repairs

McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training & mentoring for start your own business and basic computers and accounting. Also training in Thesaurus accounting products

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

• Building Regs Supervision • Planning Permissions • Cert of Compliance • Map Marking • Building Site Surveys & Inspections • Independent Engineering Reports • Snagging of Construction Projects

CHARTERED ENGINEERS

GUINNESS/HEINEKEN/CARLSBERG/BULMERS Original Irish Cider 500ml 8 Pack €2.83/ BUDWEISER / MOLSON CANADIAN 330ml 20 Pack €3.25/ltr / BAILEYS Irish Cream 700ml €2.99/ltr / SMIRNOFF Vodka 700ml €31.41/ltr / CAPTAIN MORGAN Original Spiced Rum 700ml €37.13/750ml / BUSHMILLS Whiskey 700ml €28.56/750ml / EAGLEHAWK RANGE 750ml €6.99/750ml

Tel: 090 6665341/087 9580659 Email: info@conlonconsulting.ie Web: www.conlonconsulting.ie

Ros

OFFICE SUPPLIES

Goff Street, Roscommon Tel: (090) 66 25141. Fax: (090) 66 25453

OFFERS VALID FROM 17/12 /15 TO 20/12/15

• QUOTAS MAY APPLY •

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

Sean Doyle & Sons Ltd ESTABLISHED 1978

• Circular Road, Roscommon • Over 35 Years in Business • Removal of old Windows and Doors • All Fitters Fully Insured • Registered for Home Improvement Grants • Timber, PVC, Aluclad and Aluminium Windows and Doors • Double and Triple Glazed • V Welded and Mechanically Welded Frames CONTACT 090-6626753 • www.seandoylewindows.ie • info@seandoylewindows.ie

Veterinary Supplies Ros MART BUILDINGS, ROSCOMMON TEL.: (090) 6625900

‘A Taste of Abbeytown’ OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS EVENT ON MONDAY! There is sure to be a great atmosphere in Roscommon town next Monday evening (December 21), when a special festive event will be held at Abbeytown. Four businesses in the area – Molloy’s Bakery, the Railway Bar, Timothy’s Londis and the Abbey Hotel – are hosting ‘A Taste of Abbeytown’ event. Gazebos will be located on the footpath, with music playing, while mulled wine and hot chocolate will be served. “There will be a bit of craic for a few hours,” said Declan Molloy, one of the organisers. The event will officially run from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm, with festivities sure to continue later that night.

Christmas Draw NOW ON Prizes galore to be won OPEN: Monday - Saturday 9-6pm Open late Tuesday evening

Connaught Dry Cleaners Castle Street, Roscommon Laundry Service Team Kits, etc. ● Duvets / Throwovers ● Ironing Service (9 Shirts €10) Specialist Cleaning of ● Bridal Wear ● Evening Wear ● Curtains

ROSCOMMON TYRE CENTRE Props: Aaron & Colin Mullally

Circular Road, Roscommon Tel: (090) 66 26626 Fax: (090) 66 27022 Mobile: (087) 9007898

WINTER SPECIAL OFFERS

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

‘There’s a deﬁnite Christmas buzz’ – Molloy ROSCOMMON TOWN BUSINESSES OFF TO A GOOD START!

● ●

SPECIAL OFFER Suit, Shirt, Tie

€20 Closing: Christmas Eve at 2pm Re-opening: Tuesday 29th December Telephone: (090) 66 25043

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

he President of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, Declan Molloy, has said that businesses in the county town are enjoying a great Christmas trade – despite the horrendous weather. “There is quite a footfall,” he said. “There is definitely a buzz around town. “There has been very positive comments that the town looks exceptionally well, with the Christmas lights. A lot of the people like the piped music around the town. They feel it adds to the atmosphere.” Mr Molloy said that Christmas parties were proving very popular in the town, something had been very beneficial to pubs. Not surprisingly, the torrential rain from Storm Desmond had a “slight effect” on business about ten days ago, at the height of flooding in the town. “We lost a certain number of people from east Galway who would have come through Athleague,” said Mr Molloy, noting the Roscommon-Galway Road (N63) was closed at the village for some time. “That is back on track now and it is noticeable that people are coming in the Galway Road yet again, which is great,” he said.

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Roscommon Town were Saoirse and Maebh McNeil and Daniel McNulty. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

Main Street, Roscommon

PHONE: 083 4844333

Also find us on Facebook/thecomfycafe

OPEN THIS SUNDAY Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Roscommon Town were Áine, Killian, Keeva and Eddie Campbell. Picture: Andrew Fox

RosFM rafﬂe won by Ballymurray man

Pictured is Bernard Kearney, chairperson of RosFM presenting a cheque for €1300 to Mr. Vincent Pierce, Ballymurray, following the recent RosFM raffle.

The draw for the RosFM raffle in support of its disability training programme took place on November 20th at the RosFM studios in Roscommon town with the first prize of a top quality charolais heifer or €1300 cash option being won by Mr. Vincent Pierce, Ballymurray, Roscommon. RosFM chairperson, Bernard Kearney, congratulated Mr. Pierce and all the winners and expressed his sincere

gratitude to all those who supported the draw and for the welcome extended on the many doorsteps throughout the community. He thanked all those who engaged in selling the tickets and acknowledged the challenges in doing so for this worthy cause. He also acknowledged the integral part annual fundraising played in the funding of the RosFM project. The draw was overseen by Sergeant Paul McDer-

mott, Garda Siochana, Roscommon and Longford Division. The following is the full list of winners – 1st prize: Vincent Pierce, Ballymurray, (€1300), 2nd prize: Gerard Lannon, Carniska, (€500), 3rd prize: Noel Mulvihill, Tulsk, (Luxury hotel break), 4th prize: Ned O’Connor, Castlerea, (€300), 5th prize: Grainne Gilligan, Roscommon, (€200 home heating vouchers).

Take-Out Window - Perfect for those busy lunch-breaks or early mornings for New York style take-out coffee and food on the go Ring or text in your takeaway lunch orders before 12 noon daily on 083 4844333

FRANCES’ FINISHING TOUCHES The Square, Roscommon Tel.: 090 6626270 Give the gift of Frances’ Finishing Touches this Christmas with a Gift Voucher

MOLLOY’S

Call in and enter our FREE DRAW to win one of two Christmas Hampers

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

Christmas Savings Offers valid 17.12.15 to 23.12.15 or while promotional stocks last

All Creatures - VETERINARY CLINIC & Shop -

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon. Tel: 090-6626898 Fax: 090-6627687 Web: www.allcreatures.ie www.facebook.com/allcreaturesroscommon SERVICES AVAILABLE:

• Gas Anaesthetic • Digital X-Ray • Bovine & Equine Scanning • In-house Blood Testing • Grooming • All your Dosing & Mineral Requirements

BUDWEISER 500ml 24 Pack €2.80/ltr CARLSBERG 500ml 24 Pack €2.08/ltr

BUSHMILLS 700ml €29.98/ltr / WKD Blue 275ml €5.19/ltr

SHOP OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 8.00pm; Saturday, 9am to 6.00pm AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY

087 2596055 - 24 HOURS Member of

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Thank you to all our listeners, advertisers, sponsors and to all those who supported the Ros FM Draw Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

Roscommon Goal Mile launched The 12th annual Roscommon Town Christmas Day GOAL Mile was launched in P. Kelly’s Bar on Castle Street last week by well-known local Independent Councillor and GAA personality Dominick Connolly, who will lead the mile this year. Cllr Connolly said that the work being done by GOAL all over the world deserved to be supported and he commended the local committee on their hard work in this regard. Local organiser Seamus Duke thanked those in attendance and looked forward to another successful staging of the event which will start at 1.30 pm sharp from The Square on Christmas Day. More than 130 GOAL Miles will take place all across the country over the coming days and weeks, confirming the ever-growing popularity of an event which, says GOAL CEO, Barry Andrews, is “now simply part of Christmas for thousands of families.” The aid agency is hoping this year’s Miles will particularly help to highlight the plight of people displaced from Syria, South Sudan and other conflict regions of the world. More than 60 million people around the world have been forced to seek refuge in 2015, fleeing war and natural disaster. GOAL, in the largest response in its history, has come to the aid of one million people enduring the war in Syria this year alone. More details and sponsorship cards from Seamus Duke on 086-8335380.

Pictured at the launch of the Christmas Day GOAL Mile Walk were Christy Allen, Seamus Duke, Cllr. Domnick Connolly and Maura Allen. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the launch of the Christmas Day GOAL Mile Walk were Adrian Browne, Michael Cleary, Deputy Denis Naughten and Michael Oates. Picture: Andrew Fox

Norio’s Circular Road, Roscommon

tomers. s u c r u o l l a o t as Happy Chriasltlma very Happy New Year! Wishing you

Fast food with a smile! Circular Road, Roscommon Telephone (090) 66 30532

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

AS STM I R H R C OFFE

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Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Roscommon Town were Orla, Grace, Mary and Michael Dwyer. Picture: Andrew Fox

New Online Store www.keenprint.ie Open Monday - Friday 9.30am - 6pm

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KEEN PRINT HAS QUALITY JACKETS AT KNOCKDOWN PRICES Keen Print on Golf Links Road, Roscommon, (being the Pepper Mill Restaurant), have high quality workwear jackets on sale at a great price. The Regatta-branded items are priced at just â&#x201A;Ź39.95, a vast reduction on the recommended retail price of â&#x201A;Ź105.

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Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Roscommon Town were Zoe Croghan, Rachel McDonald and Mikie Daly. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Enjoy alcohol responsibly

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

P. KELLY’S Bar & Lounge

CASTLE STREET, ROSCOMMON

Music all over the festive season ALL LIVE sport shown

FESTIVE FUN < DARRAGH O’CONNOR

Q: What do you call an elf that sings? A: A wrapper! Q: What do snowmen eat for their breakfast? A: Snowflakes. Q: Who says “oh oh oh”? A: Santa walking backwards. Q: What do elves learn at elf school? A: The elfabet! ‘Sending Christmas cards is a good way to let your friends and family know that you think they’re worth the price of a stamp’ – Melanie White

The new carpark in Roscommon Town, which now makes it even easier to shop locally. Picture: Andrew Fox

Chamber President urges people to use new car parks < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The President of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, Declan Molloy, has urged people to avail of the new car parks in the county town. As part of the building of Roscommon County Council’s new Civic Headquarters, a car park has been provided at the rear of Main

Street, with 125 spaces, while a further one on nearby parochial land has 71 spaces. Mr Molloy said that the car park to the rear of Main Street, being so centrally located, was particularly conducive to shoppers in the town. “It is a fantastic facility in the centre of town, with pedestrian access into the town square,” he said. “There are 125 car parking spaces,

with quite a few disabled car parking spaces included. From a security point of view, it is exceptionally well lit up.” The entrance is near the old Courthouse. “I would ask people who are parking in town for the full day to make sure that they use the off-street parking to allow businesses avail of their shopping spaces for their customers as much as possible,” said Mr Molloy.

LOOKING FORWARD TO CHRISTMAS: Andrea Treacy awaits the arrival of Santa when he visited Roscommon town recently. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

Service Matters Christmas Opening Hours Christmas Gift Box

Monday to Friday 8:30 – 5:30pm Saturday 9:30 – 4:00pm Sunday 12:00 – 4:00pm Wishing all our customer a very Happy Christmas and New Year

You’ll find the perfect present for that special man in your life at Service Matters Quality Workwear, Golf Links Road with Gift Vouchers and Special Promotional Gift Boxes available in store for Christmas, while stocks last. Service Matters stock high quality workwear, outdoor clothing, safety gear and footwear for tough working conditions. The stylish, durable and comfortable workwear and footwear makes the ideal gift for any man working outdoor in our harsh weather conditions or in dirty industries, so why not call in today to see the range of FE Engel Workwear and Dike Footwear. Service Matters are the only supplier in Ireland of these much sought-after brands, offering quality at a budget you can afford. With ample free parking on-site and friendly helpful staff, you’re guaranteed to find what you’re looking for when you call into Quality Workwear.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas 2015 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber and Roscommon People €129

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Roscommon Town were Hannah Geraghty, Beibhínn Hoare and Gwen Killian. Picture: Andrew Fox

Spoil yourself with a full treatment FordValue Service. At Caseys Roscommon our FordValue Service for Ford models five years and older comes with an oil and filter change plus multiFive point vehicle inspection. Then, as part of your FordValue Service, we add in these fabulous FREE extras: ● FREE Check for outstanding FordService actions ● FREE Visual Health Check ● FREE Car Wash, plus special formulation windscreen detergent

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Plus, you get Pan-European Roadside Assistance Call 090 6626101 and book your FordValue Service today We are Ford Parts and Service dealer.

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Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Roscommon Town were Jack Finn, Cian Kiernan and Ryan Hoare. Picture: Andrew Fox

PHOTOGRAPHIC SPECIAL OFFERS CANON IXUS 160

Christmas gifts that grow! Houseplants make the perfect Christmas gift, and are a joy for months or even years afterwards. The experts at Ardcarne Garden Centre have chosen their seasonal favourites with some top tips to ensure they’ll look good long after the festivities. Poinsettia The poinsettia is perhaps the most traditional of all indoor plants at Christmas. The large showy flowers are actually bracts or coloured leaves – the real flowers are located at the centre of the bracts. Here are some tips to keep your poinsettia in tiptop condition well into the New Year: Keep your poinsettia warm! It likes a constant warm room temperature away from cold draughts or indeed roasting radiators! Poinsettias prefer good light – a south or westfacing windowsill is perfect. Only water when absolutely necessary. Allow the top of the compost to dry out between waterings and use tepid water at all times. It is possible to keep a poinsettia for more than one year but only for those who like a challenge! It demands a controlled amount of light (14 hours darkness each day from September) before colourful new bracts are produced again in time for Christmas. Azalea Azaleas are often used as an indoor plant for the winter months. Their profuse flowers are usually in shades of rich red, magenta, shell pink or white. By following the tips below you should get at least a month of flowers from your azalea, especially if you purchase one with plenty of buds. Azaleas prefer cool, bright conditions – keep away from fires and radiators. They also like to be kept moist at all times

Christmas Cactus A non-spiny relation of the cacti with flattened fleshy leaves and colourful flowers from early to late winter. It’s a very easy plant to grow – just follow these few tips: Christmas cacti thrive in average room temperatures and prefer a bright position. Don’t move your plant around too much as it may cause bud drop. Only water when compost starts to dry out. – this could mean watering at least twice a week. Ideally use rainwater or water than has been boiled and cooled. Mist the foliage every few days and twist off old flowers as they fade. After flowering keep indoors and water as necessary. Place outdoors in late spring and re-pot if necessary using ericaceous compost. Keep fed (with an ericaceous plant food) and watered until autumn and bring inside again when flower buds start to show. Cyclamen A very popular indoor plant with attractive silver patterned leaves and showy flowers. Cyclamen like a cool room indoors, brightly lit but away from direct sunlight. Keep the compost damp, but not wet, at all times. Use soft tepid water and water from the bottom – standing the pot in a shallow saucer of water for a few minutes. Pull off old flowers completely once they are finished. To keep your cyclamen from year to year reduce watering after flowering until it starts to die back. Then allow the compost to dry out completely. About midsummer crumble off the old dry compost, re-pot the tuber and start watering again.

Amaryllis (Hippeastrum) Very showy bulbous plants with large trumpet-shaped flowers on stout stems. Ensure that at least one third of the bulb is above the level of the compost. Water as necessary when actively growing and liquid feed every 2 weeks. After flowering reduce watering and allow leaves to die down. Keep dry in summer. Re-pot the bulb into fresh compost in autumn and start watering. Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis) This has become the most popular orchid in Irish homes, thriving in average room conditions. The spikes of exotic-looking flowers usually last for months and they are available in a range of gorgeous colours from pastel pink creamy yellow and white to sumptuous magenta and dark purple. The golden rule is to never leave your moth orchid sitting in water. The best way to water is to hold the pot over the sink and pour a litre of tepid water into the pot. Most of it will run quickly through the bark-like compost and out the bottom, but the sponge-like roots will adsorb enough. Feed regularly during the growing season with an Orchid fertiliser. Cut back the flower spike once faded. New spikes will appear from the centre.

with Card and case

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McGUINNESS PHARMACY Main Street, Roscommon T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 6628789 W. www.totalhealth.ie

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

Roscommon Cancer Support Centre Christmas Market

Pictured at the Roscommon Cancer Support Centre Christmas Market in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Ciara and Riona Hennessy. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Cancer Support Centre Christmas Market in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Sarah Murray and Trudy Fetherstone. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Cancer Support Centre Christmas Market in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Marie Glennon, Charlie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien and Lizzie Glennon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Cancer Support Centre Christmas Market in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Ethan and Luke Hussey. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Cancer Support Centre Christmas Market in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon were Geraldine Glennon, Madge Glennon and Vera Dempsey. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Ballygar Martina’s Fashions Ballygar, Co. Galway. Tel.: (090) 66 24561

NOW STOCKING

Dry Flower & Candle arrangements Hampers made to order for Christmas • Large selection of Christmas wear in stock • Catering from sizes 10-24 • Hats and Fascinators For Hire • Selection of kiddies wear available Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year

M.J. KELLY BALLYGAR LTD. 1893

AGRI. MACHINERY

2015

Supplying the farming community for over 120 years BALLYGAR, CO. GALWAY. TEL. 090 6624545 EMAIL: mjkellyltd@gmail.com Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

Martin’s Bar na d’Taoisigh BALLYGAR Props.: Pat & Carmel Gilmore

The Thatch Bar

Ballygar – 090 66 24922 – OPEN DAILY – Proprietors:

Matt and Mary Quinn Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

BALLYGAR

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Ballygar gearing up for Christmas and 2016 < DAN DOONER

Local shops, businesses and residents in Ballygar are gearing up for the festive season and I was delighted some of the Ballygarians took some time out recently to answer our festive questions and generally give me some insight into how things are progressing in the town ahead of the new year. They’re definitely a proud bunch of people in Ballygar with a love for all things GAA as was evident in the great fundraising taken on by the local people in aid of the new GAA pitch in the area. I somehow managed to talk GAA for most of the afternoon without one mention of the awful beating inflicted on the Dublin hurlers during the championship! Ah they’re a grand bunch of lads in Ballygar! I must also mention the great work that has been undertaken by the dedicated people on the Tidy Towns committee, the town is in immaculate condition and it’s no wonder that their work has been reflected in their improved results in the Tidy Towns competition. All in all, Ballygar is looking forward to a merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year and the Roscommon People would like to thank the good people of Ballygar for their support and we look forward to a successful 2016 for the town.

Five festive minutes with…Mike Conway There are a few nervous looking turkeys in the Ballygar area and one man they’re all hiding from is Mike Conway of Conway Family Butchers. Dustin and his buddies wouldn’t dare set foot in Ballygar at this time of year but luckily for Mike, the Roscommon People are slightly braver turkeys! < DARRAGH O’CONNOR

Mike, would you mind putting down the knife

put down the knife and answering some questions? First of all, what’s your favourite Christmas song? The Pogues’ song Fairytale of New York. Brussels sprouts-delicious or disaster? I’m neutral on sprouts, but preferably boiled! You can invite 3 famous people to Christmas dinner, who would be there?

rite’s MargueHAIR SALON MAIN STREET, BALLYGAR

086 0515212 TEL: 090 6624816

MOBILE:

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and thank you for your custom during the year.

Claudia Schiffer, John F Kennedy and Mattie McDonagh. What gift would you like from Santa this year? Oh I’d say two nice women! (Ah now, was Claudia not good enough?) What’s your favourite Christmas movie? Santa Claus the movie!

St. Mary’s choir annual carol service In aid of St. Vincent de Paul, the Choir of St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar will host their annual carol service by candlelight to celebrate the Advent and Christmas seasons. The service will be held this Sunday, December 20th at 8 pm in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar. Come and hear all your favourite Christmas carols by candlelight as we celebrate the real meaning of the season. All are welcome.

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year

The Medical Hall Main Street, Ballygar, Co. Galway Telephone: 090-6624557

• Gift Hampers made to order • Wide selection of gift sets available in store • Gift vouchers available • Complimentary Gift wrapping services with all gifts purchased

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Ballygar

Fallons BAR Ballygar

Build it – and Ballygar people will support it!

Telephone: 090 66 24674

Christmas Entertainment Saturday December 19th:

< DAN DOONER

Local fundraising means that the pitch development, which will serve the GAA parish of Ballygar, Newbridge and Toghergar, is very close to opening. I recently caught up with Tommie Fallon to get the low down on the top class facilities. Tommie was full of praise for the local community. “It’s all about a whole lot of people doing a small little bit,” said Tommie. The fundraising began back in 2009, which due to the economic circumstances at the time caused some people to question the project. “Well people thought that maybe it was a bit mad at the start but let me tell you the community has been fantastic in supporting this. An amazing €350,000 has been raised locally to date!” A timeline was given of the developments so far, with the latest news being that the pitches have been

Country Comfort Saturday December 26th: – St. Stephen’s Night –

J&S Sound Thursday December 31st: – New Year’s Eve –

Patsy McCahill FOOD SERVED DAILY Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas from John & Noeleen Thank you for your support in 2015

Pictured at the very beginning of the GAA pitch development in Ballygar were (L-r) Noel O’Malley, M J Slyman, Tony Murray, Maurice Harnett, Pat Hannon, Sean Nolan, Niall Naughton, Brian Finneran, Tommie Fallon, Joe Lohan, Vincent Burke and Seamus Lohan.

laid with work expected to take place on temporary dressing rooms in the new year. Tommie reckons the facilities could be in business by “mid-2016”, and was looking forward to

the opening. “This facility is going to be of great benefit to the people of the area, it’s really going to bring people together.” So which clubs will benefit the most from the new facility? Tommie said,

“In the immediate area we have Ballygar Hurling Club, St. Brendan’s GAA Club, St. Brendan’s Ladies Football and Ballygar Camogie Club.” Exciting times ahead for those four clubs, and the

many youngsters who will take up sport in the years to come. I’ll leave the last word to Tommie, “It’s for our future and for our kids!”

Five festive minutes with…Seamus Lohan Seamus Lohan has been a very busy man in the Ballygar area over the last number of years. For you see Seamus is the Chairman of the finance committee, which is taking care of the fundraising for the impressive GAA development in the area. In fact, Seamus turned the first sod at the construction site and now the lucky sod gets a crack at our Christmas questions. Seamus, you’re cooking din-

ner for three famous people, who would you like to cook for? Padraig Joyce, Ja Fallon and Miss Ireland, although I don’t know who she is at the moment! (It’s Sacha Livingstone, and I don’t blame you!) Brussels sprouts – delicious or disgusting? Absolutely disgusting, I’d rather starve!

What one gift would you like this year? A new BMW, but I don’t think Mags my wife would go that far! (Sounds like a challenge to me!) What’s your one wish for 2016? Peace and happiness for all. Oh and Michael Ring to recognise us in the capital sports grant!

JOHNSTON’S PHARMACY UNIT 2 HIGH STREET, BALLYGAR, CO. GALWAY Tel. (090) 66 24780 / 090 6624409

Offering a wide range of special offers on gifts and health products for the festive season. We would like to thank our loyal customers for their support throughout the year and wish all a very Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Prosperous New Year.

Brighten up your Christmas

Phone: 090 66 24078 Ollie, Gerry and the staff of Holmes Centra and Holmes Day Today wish all their Customers a very Happy Christmas and we look forward to seeing you over the next few days. We would like to invite you to join us for our

Annual Customer Day this Friday, 18th December from 10am to 7pm.

Check out our Christmas Value... 24-can Slab Guinness/ Bud/Carlsberg only €24

20 Bottle Beer Box €15 (Carlsberg/ Budweiser)

Mix and Match 3 for €2 Fruit and Vegetables on Bag of Carrots/Bag of Parsnips/Sprouts/Bag of Apples/Punnet Kiwi

2kg Ham Fillets only €8.00

Baileys €12 Smirnoff €17 Paddy €20

Spend €50 or more and get Christmas Trees 6&7ft half price for only €20 (Offers valid 17th to 23rd December)

Special Offers to warm you this Christmas 3 DAYS ONLY THIS FRI/SAT/SUN €15 Bag Polish Coal/Bale of Briquettes/Bag of Kindling/Firelog and we have Electric Heaters from as little as €10

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Ballygar ATHENRY

Credit Union Ltd. (BALLYGAR BRANCH) The Square, Ballygar, Co. Galway. Tel.: (090) 66 24945. Fax: (090) 6624715 Email: ballyar@athenrycu.ie

Serving you, the members, for 26 years

Happy Christmas and New Year to all our members

Five festive minutes with…Melissa Healy Melissa Healy has recently been appointed Chairperson of Ballygar Camogie Club, and so to celebrate that and Christmas in the town we decided to hound her at work with our Christmas questions!

Dinner?

< DAN DOONER

Brussels Sprouts: vital nutrition or disaster?

Melissa, what 3 famous people would you invite to Christmas

Luke Kelly, Lionel Messi and Kenton Cool. (Mr. Cool is a mountaineer and as far as we can work out that is his real name!)

Definitely vital nutrition ... full of iron. (Flexes muscle) What is your favourite Christmas movie? Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. (Home Alone 7: At a bar in Ballygar) What gift would you most like this year?

A Bernese mountain dog puppy. (Doesn’t sound like that breed comes in puppy form!) What wish would you like granted in 2016? To summit Mt. Kilimanjaro! (Looking back through the answers a definite theme emerges!)

CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS: CLOSED: 24th - 28th December OPEN: 29th - 30th December CLOSED: 31st of December REOPENING: Monday, 4th of January

Holmes is where the Sunflower Montessori heart is this Christmas & Creche Athenry Credit Union is regulated by The Central Bank of Ireland

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas & Prosperous New Year from

< MAEVE GILMORE

Ballygar, Killeroran, Co. Galway Tel: 090 6624689

2014

Vacancies available for ECCE, ASCC & CETS

Now enrolling for 2016 Breakfast Club with school drop off & After School with school pick up

Season’s greetings from all at

Tierney’s Bar & Restaurant BALLYGAR, CO. GALWAY

TEL: 090 66 24534

LIVE MUSIC Friday 18th - DJ Bobby (Party Night)

Saturday 19th - Traditional

Ballad Singer Gary Lawlor (Formally The Druids) Party Night

St. Stephen’s Day - Sing along

with Gary Lawlor from 5-7pm St. Stephen’s Night - DJ Bobby Hurlers annual night out with live Music

Sunday 27th -

The Murph’s New Year’s Eve - DJ Bobby Fancy Dress Party Wishing all our Customers a Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for 2016

The

Bees Knees

Health Store

For all your Health Foods & Nutritional Supplement Requirements

Tel: 090 6624409

Unit 3, High Street, Email: beeskneesballygar@gmail.com Ballygar, Co. Galway F42 DE09 www.facebook.com/beeskneeshealthstore

I recently sat down with local businessman and indeed, gentleman, Gerry Holmes as he shared some of his happy memories of Ballygar, past and present. Gerry is well-known in the town for his long-established newsagents ‘Day Today’ (more commonly known as the ‘Bon-Bon’) and, in the past, for his pub ‘The Elm Rest.’ Gerry grew up in Crossmolina, County Mayo on a small farm. He was a part of a large family, which consisted of seven boys and four girls. He told the Roscommon People that he had a wonderful childhood. “We didn’t have television, we didn’t have radio, mobile phones or any sort of phone but we had a great time, we made our own entertainment.” Before making his way to Ballygar, Gerry lived in New York where he met and married the love of his life, Julia. Gerry also spent three years working for a baking company in Dublin. However, Gerry was always anxious to get involved in business “down the country”. He saw some advertisements in a newspaper for premises in Ballygar and this resulted in his first purchase: The Elm Rest. Nevertheless, when he saw that the ‘Bon-Bon’ shop was for sale, he arrived up at the auction again the following week to purchase it. The ‘BonBon’ first opened under the control of Mr. Holmes on the 12th of July 1971. Ballygar in the early 1970s was, he says, “a nice thriving town.” It had a variety of shops including a drapery, a hardware store, a shoeshop, etc. Back in that era there were plenty of pubs in the

town too but, as in other rural towns and villages, fewer pubs remain today. He recalls there being a great community spirit back then in Ballygar, and confirms that that is still the case today. The annual Ballygar Carnival is a significant event for everyone associated with the town. Has always been one of the highlights of the year for everyone in the area and it creates a great atmosphere. Gerry was a member of the carnival committee for a number of years. Gerry remembers the bustling carnival atmosphere created by numerous talented performers in

Ballygar in years gone by. Some of the acts he recalls are Maurice Mulcahy, the great Joe Dolan and Larry Cunningham. They were just some of the stars who frequented the Ballygar Carnival. It wasn’t just the musical acts that attracted the masses; Murray’s Amusements also brought in the crowds and played a major role in the festivities. As in all towns in Ireland, the recession of recent years took a big toll on Ballygar. People had to cut back on their spending. The introduction of large multinational stores in the area took an extra toll as it meant people weren’t

shopping locally as often as in the past. “I’m sorry to see so many places closed down as it is no advantage for any town,” Gerry says. The well-known businessman expresses his gratitude to all the business people, townspeople and loyal customers who have supported him throughout his many enjoyable years in Ballygar. To Gerry’s delight, his son Ollie took inspiration from his entrepreneurial spirit and followed in his footsteps and now owns and runs the Centra shop in Ballygar. From an early age, Gerry always considered

Christmas to be a wonderful time. Reflecting on his childhood experience of the festive season, he says: “Although the place wasn’t cluttered with toys or anything like that, we had our own games.” During our chat Gerry also talked about Christmas Day Mass in Ballygar back in the 1970s. Everyone dressed “in their finery” and when the Mass had finished “you’d talk to people who would have come home for this special time of year. “It is lovely meeting people who are around for a few days over the Christmas.”

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Ballygar

Annual ‘Turkey Trot’ at St. Brendan’s

Key role of Tidy Towns < DAN DOONER

Ballygar Tidy Towns are working hard on the ground to make Ballygar a great place for people to visit and shop. The town re-entered the Tidy Towns competition in 2012 after a lapse of a number of years. Ballygar’s score increased by 31 points since 2012, which was a great achievement. The community spirit is very evident through the work being done by all in the town and environs. Tidy Towns chairman,

Michael Naughton said: “We have tackled some large projects each year. For example the Tidy Towns committee have recently completed work on a new park on the Ballyforan Road in Ballygar – Pairc Shuáimhnis. The committee brought an unused area back to life for the community to enjoy.” The committee also purchased the Old Courthouse on the Market Square in Ballygar early last year. The building was constructed in 1850 and is an important heritage building

St. Brendan’s GAA Club will host their fourth annual ‘Turkey Trot’ on St. Stephen’s Day. This is a 7k fun walk which starts outside Newbridge Car Park at 1.30 pm. There are refreshments available along the route and there are a large number of spot prizes up for grabs. Sponsorship cards are available from

all club officers. Last year, despite the bad weather, well over 100 people of all ages took part in the walk. The proceeds will go to the new pitch development that will hopefully in mid 2016 and all support on the day is appreciated. So come down and walk off that turkey!

Five festive minutes with… Thangadurai Subramanam in the planned town of Ballygar. The Tidy Towns committee renovated the building through voluntary labour and have held many events in the last year. The building is a great base for the Tidy Towns in Ballygar and a great space for holding events. A Christmas Market took place last weekend, which was a great success, and the committee would like to thank all the stallholders who added so much to the event. As the year comes to a close Michael Naughton

commented: “I would like to thank all the volunteers that have helped throughout the year with the tidy towns effort. Their dedication is unbelievable and great credit is due to them all. “The Christmas lighting committee in Ballygar deserve great praise for the work they do enhancing the town for the festive period. Dedicated volunteers carried all of this work out during the recent storm. You would have to go a long distance to see a tree as tall as the one in Ballygar!”

Thangadurai is the chef in Tierney’s Bar and he is busy getting ready for the hectic Christmas period, but not busy enough to escape our Christmas questions!

pends on how you make them! (Laughs) (Sadly, he refused to give us his secret recipe!)

< DARRAGH O’CONNOR

Eh, I think maybe White Christmas. (Ah bringing it back to the old school Thangadurai!)

Thangadurai, what is your favourite Christmas song? I like Jingle Bells. As a chef are Brussels sprouts delicious or a disaster? Ah, it very much de-

What’s your favourite Christmas movie?

What one gift would you like this year? (Laughs) A new house! Ok you’re a chef so who would you really like to cook for this year?

(No hesitation) My mom and dad! (awwww)

Wishing all our customers a Very Happy Christmas & Prosperous New Year from Ann Marie & Damien Traynor and all the staff at BALLYGAR, CO. GALWAY

TEL.: 090-66 24546/ 090-66 24074. FAX: 090-66 24564. EMAIL: traynorsgarage@eircom.net

Sales • Service • Repairs • 24-hr. Recovery Service Other Services we provide 24hr Recovery and Service Van ● Crash Repair Centre (EPA Approved) ● Mobile Diagnostics Service ● Fully qualified mechanics and spray painters Call Brian or Damien Traynor today on 090 6624546 / 66 24074 Damien Mobile: 086 2532771 Visit our website on www.traynors.ie ●

NEWLY APPOINTED Main dealer for

To view our current stock list of used vehicles and our new Isuzu and LDV range in stock log on to

www.traynors.ie Your one stop Garage for all your motoring needs OPENING HOURS: Monday -Friday, 9am - 6pm; Saturday 9am - 4pm

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Athleague/Castlecoote/Fuerty Wishing all our customers and friends a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas and every good wish for 2016 from the Leyden family

Castlecoote Lodge BAR & LOUNGE Friday, 18th December

Trad Music

Customers & Friends Christmas Party Night Darts Competition from 9.30pm Saturday, 19th December

Castlecoote Tidy Towns Hamper Draw Wednesday, 23rd December

25 Card Game Starts 9.30pm. Tel: 087 6335511 Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Farrell’s (1992) Ltd.

Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon

Tel.: (090) 66 63373 Fax: (090) 66 63374 Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Now in Athleague Come visit us in our new premises and avail of some great deals on tyres, car and van sales

ATHLEAGUE’S WE’RE OPEN FOR < DAN DOONER

The word is very much out, Athleague is up and running for Christmas and the New Year. Local businesses are ready to welcome you to the village where you will enjoy a unique shopping experience. The phenomenal voluntary community effort against the threatened floods in the last ten days or so has paid off and

the village has survived a catastrophe of 2009 proportions. Aidan Donnelly of Town & Country Interiors, promises a shopping experience like no other and certainly nothing like the bland shopping centres further afield. He was enthusiastic about the upcoming festive season. “Athleague is very much open for business and it’s the perfect place for

● Open: Tuesday 29th

& Wednesday 30th 9.00am - 5.00pm ● Reopen: January 4th at 9.00am

Telephone: 086 3653023 ● info@eliteservicing.ie ● www.eliteservicing.ie

through needless hassle this year, shop local and enjoy the experience!” Elsewhere Bridie Killeen from Tommie Kelly Electrical praised the “tremendous” community effort during the recent flooding. “The management and staff here would like to express their appreciation for the tremendous support and loyalty from all our valuable customers, community members and

organisations who helped in any way during the recent flooding crisis.” Bridie was overwhelmed by the solidarity shown in the village and added: “As it would be impossible to thank everyone, please accept this as a sincere thank you. We wish you all a very Happy Christmas.” So there you have it: Athleague is the place to go for all your Christmas shopping this year.

We fought Suck

Christmas Opening hours ● Closed: Wednesday 23rd at 6.30pm

shopping local. We have a café/restaurant on site here for a calm and relaxed shopping experience.” Rather than enduring the crowds and stress of big shopping centres elsewhere, Aidan says that Athleague can offer everything you need this Christmas. “We have everything you want here in Town & Country, plenty of unique stuff and gift ideas for everyone. Don’t put yourself

How the people of Athleague triumped

Community spirit is alive and well in Athleague. This was vividly demonstrated the weekend before last when, unbelievably – a mere six years since being devastated by the flood of 2009 – the village was under threat again. 100 ml of rain made its

way to an already swollen River Suck over a period of thirty-six hours. Alarm bells begin to ring and Cllr. Ivan Connaughton organised with Roscommon County Council for thousands of sandbags and loads of sand to be delivered to the commu-

nity centre. The call went out via Facebook, text, and telephone, and an army of fifty to sixty people came and filled 3,500 sandbags in the torrential rain. 35 sheets of marine ply and about 150 tubes of silicone were used and every door in the village was sealed. The sandbags were placed in front of every door and were also used to create drainage channels into which pumps were placed. The battle against

Mother Nature was on! Roscommon County Council spared nothing and pumps and pumping systems of many different types were employed. Volunteers, council workers, the civil defence, and contractors worked nonstop from Sunday evening until Wednesday morning when, true to form, the river began to recede. By Thursday evening you would never think driving through the village that for the previous three days it

had been like a war-zone. Unfortunately three houses were flooded this time, which is very upsetting for their owners, but thankfully significantly less than the 2009 flood when almost twenty houses and five businesses were flooded. It was a very difficult few days for everyone involved, the cold and wet, the sheer physical effort of the job, the lack of sleep, the worry, the stress, all took their toll and it is an

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Main Street, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. T. 090 66 63867

We can dispense all prescriptions. Give Louis a call to discuss your needs or queries

Wide range of Gifts & Beauty Products in-store • PHYSICAL THERAPIST • CHIROPODY • PODIATRY CLINCIS - CALL FOR INFORMATION

Christmas Fair at Fuerty NS The Fuerty National School Christmas Fair will take place this Saturday (19th) in St. Ciarán’s Hall at 7 pm. There will be a craft sale,

pupils of the school have made homemade treats and there will be raffle prizes on the night also. Tea and coffee will be available in the all and the

fair will begin after 6.15 pm Mass. Everyone is welcome, so come along and support Fuerty National School this Saturday.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Athleague/Castlecoote/Fuerty Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

MESSAGE: BUSINESS

McCormack Metal Fabrication •GATES • RAILINGS

Balconies and a range of made to order steel products Please visit our website

www.mccormackmetal.ie Gortmore, Fuerty, Co. Roscommon

•Tel: 086 - 8873897

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Oscar & Ann and all at

Castlecoote Stores Open 7 days, 7am to 11pm Tel 090 66 63394

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and thank you for your loyal support throughout the year from

Shane Naughton AGRI & PLANT HIRE Mobile: (087) 9858804 Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas & Prosperous New Year from Tommie, Michael and all at

and we won! experience that hopefully will never again have to be endured by the people of the area. Lessons have been learned and there should be a better understanding of the measures that need to be taken to address this problem once and for all. There are many, many people, businesses and public representatives that deserve thanks and they will be acknowledged very soon. We fought the Suck and we won! Athleague is once again open for busi-

ness just in time for the Christmas. There were some fantastic stories to come out of such a distressing period and one of those was the story of the French restaurant owner whose staff provided hot drinks, beef casserole and sandwiches ‘on the house!’ Step forward La Rochelle native, Anita Bruneteau, of ‘Les petites Tartes’ accompanied by her chef, Jackie Coyle and ably assisted by staff members, Claire and Ciara. “Everybody was helping

out but I have a bad back so I couldn’t help physically. It was the only way I could help. You don’t even think, you just help,” Anita said. Anita was full of praise for the whole community and commented that the town was looking forward to the Christmas break and hopefully a break in the weather. “There were people working day and night to save the village. The community was absolutely fantastic!”

ulhern Bro Agri Contractors Ltd.

Kilmore, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel: Tommie: (087) 9009067 Michael: (087) 1422312 • Self propelled silage • Mowing • Round Bailing • Re-Seeding • Hedgecutting, Saw, Flail • Fencing Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

HEALY’S Athleague

SUPPLIERS OF ALL QUALITY CATTLE, CALF & SHEEP MEALS TOP PRICES PAID FOR WOOL Fertiliser, Animal Feeds and Minerals, Roundup & Sprays •Light Hardware •Fencing Material • Coal and Gas Honest prices, good terms and no gimmicks

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK

•Tel.: 090 66 63313

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

All parties catered for

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

The Bridge House Athleague Card Game continues every Friday night For Hamper 10pm Sharp

Big screen with Sky Sports and Setanta Sports. Enquiries: (090) 66 63534/(087) 8133406/(087) 6598078

A very special Thank You to everyone who helped us battle the recent flooding

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Athleague/Castlecoote/Fuerty Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

BRIAN MURRAY QUALITY MEMORIALS & SUPPLIER OF ALL TYPES OF CRUSHED STONE Scrine, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel: 087 6758874/ 087 6608885 or 090 66 23322 Email: brianmurraystone@gmail.com Website: www.brianmurraystone.com

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from Pictured at a Christmas Fair in Dalton’s of Fuerty on Sunday last were Lorraine Gately and Michelle Lambert. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a Christmas Fair in Dalton’s of Fuerty on Sunday last were Audrey Donoghue and Maria Page. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a Christmas Fair in Dalton’s of Fuerty on Sunday last were Sharon Kavanagh and Katie Elliff. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a Christmas Fair in Dalton’s of Fuerty on Sunday last were Michelle Hughes Walsh and Olivia Hennigan. Picture: Andrew Fox

From idea to screen, we create video content that entertains, engages and informs www.mimarmedia.ie Email us at info@mimarmedia.ie ATHLEAGUE, ROSCOMMON 090 6663731

Wishing all our customers & friends a very Happy Christmas & Peaceful New Year from Pauline, Gerry, Aishling, Michelle and staff at

P&G Cards Ltd.

Athleague, Co. Roscommon Telephone: 090 6663802 www.pandgcards.com

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Damian Grehan PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES SCRINE, ATHLEAGUE, ROSCOMMON • New Builds • Maintenance of Existing Systems • House Extensions • Oil Boiler Servicing • Installation of all types of Stoves, Water Softeners, Well Pumps, etc SEAI approved for Heating Upgrades, Solar Panel Installation

Contact Damian @ 086 3662922 / 090 6623467 Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Dalton’s Pub Fuerty, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 6766469 26th December - Music with

Kevin Garvey 31st December - Music with

Hugh Collins facebook.com/daltons.fuerty

Another busy year for community groups in Athleague < BERNARD KEANE

The work of the Athleague Tidy Towns Association continues to enhance the living environment around us. Every year sees new projects that will in time make our village an even more attractive place to live. We are in the process of drawing up a medium and long term plan for the village and hope to meet Roscommon County Council and other stakeholders in the near future. Phase one of the re-development

work on the community centre is complete and paid for. Phase two is dependent on securing funding from government agencies and unfortunately we have had no success with this to date. The Angling Centre has recently been renamed as ‘The Suck Valley Visitor Centre’ in order to reflect its role in developing the tourism sector throughout the The Suck Valley. A recently-formed ‘Angling Hub’ has been established at the Centre, to develop and promote angling in our river.

Great assistance is being given by The Inland Fisheries to the group. A short film of the Suck Valley Way highlighting its many beautiful attractions, its heritage, its walking, and its fishing, etc. is currently underway. The film is being made by local firm Mimar Media. This project is being spearheaded by Cllr. Orla Leyden who has worked tirelessly to secure significant funding for this project. A heritage group has been set up to research and create awareness

of the rich heritage and history in our area, and to provide genealogical information at the centre. It is also hoped to establish a walking club in the near furure. The centre is also becoming a centre for arts and crafts in the Suck Valley Way. The town also recently featured on UTV Ireland’s ‘Lesser Spotted Journeys’ which highlighted the wonderful heritage and culture of Athleague to a wider audience.

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

GERRY GILL Motors

Crash Repairs ● Sales & Service Fuerty, Roscommon Tel/Fax: (090) 66 26536 Gerry: (086) 8162964 Gerard: (086) 2254731 follow us on facebook www.gerrygillmotors.ie

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Oliver Grehan

• Crash Repairs • Recovery Service Insurance Claims Handled SCRINE, ATHLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON Oliver: 086 8799699 Alan: 086 8984188 Tel./Fax: 090 6623467

Member of the Vehicle Repairers Association

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Les Petites Tartres Café Restaurant Main St, Athleague ● Tel: 090 6663343

Open: Monday to Saturday 9 am to 5.30 pm - Sunday 10.30 to 5 pm

Email: anitabruneteau@eircom.net

Facebook: Les Petites Tartres

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Eamon Gately

Electrical Contractor Castlecoote Phone:

RECI approved

(086) 8302035

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Athleague/Castlecoote/Fuerty Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas from

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Athleague/Castlecoote

PJ’s

Wishing all our patrons a very Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year from

Five festive minutes with…REBECCA BRENNAN

Athleague NS: A thank you

CASTLECOOTE, CO. ROSCOMMON TELEPHONE: (090) 66 63066

Athleague National School Parents Association wish to thank everyone who supported their recent fundraisers. Your support is much appreciated. The Association is looking forward to working with the teachers and Board of Management on the provision of extra facilities for the increasing number of children attending the school.

Sunday night 20th December

ANNUAL TIDY TOWNS CHRISTMAS DRAW

Athleague camogie has had another fine year and one of the stars of the team is Rebecca Brennan. She recently took some time to answer our Christmas questions. < DAN DOONER

From a nutrition point of view they’re so important, great for sporting activities. Although I’d rather have a chicken burger!

If you could invite any three people for Christmas dinner, who would be at the table?

What’s your favourite Christmas movie and favourite festive tune?

I’d love to have Channing Tatum – for the looks! Conor McGregor for the craic and Jennifer Lawrence because I just love her!

My favourite Christmas movie has to be Elf! Will Ferrell is priceless. (Santaaaaaaaa!) Fairytale of New York has to be my favourite Christmas song, never fails to get you going even

Brussels sprouts – vital nutri-

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Castlecoote were Tom, Katie, Amy and Imelda Lavin. Picture: Andrew Fox

Keane’s

Tel.: 090 6663849

OPEN ALL OVER CHRISTMAS ● CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY ONLY Centra Fresh Irish Unsmoked Ham Fillet 2kg - €4.00/kg was €16.00 now €8.00. Premium Butcher Style Unsmoked Ham Fillet 2.3kg - €5.65/kg was €26.00 now €13.00

Half Price

Centra Smoked Salmon 300g - €16.67/kg was €10.00 now €5.00

Half Price Offer valid until 23rd of December

CHRISTMAS BEER & SPIRITS

from

Gordon’s Dry Gin 70cl Cork Dry Gin 70cl

Hennessy Cognac 70cl

€20 each

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What’s Santa bringing this year? My wish-list is extremely long! I’d have to say a new helmet is needed, I’ve been playing 11 years with the same helmet and it’s finally had its day! How about one wish for 2016? It’d be great to win an All-Ireland club title. I’ve contested in three All-Irelands but with no success. So each year the aim is to win one!

Captain Morgan Spiced Rum 70cl Paddy Whiskey 70cl

€20 each Wishing one and all a very Merry Christmas and New Year from all at

ATHLEAGUE

Athleague has had many kind-hearted citizens stepping forward to help and support their fellow man and woman over the last few weeks. One such resident is James Cooke, who recently completed the Great Ethiopian Run in aid of Górta and Self Help Africa. He took time to answer a few of our Christmas questions. James, stop running and sit down for a minute. Ok, what three people would you like to invite to Christmas dinner? Alex Ferguson, Roy Keane and Rod Stewart. (We reckon you’d need to replace Rod Stewart with George Mitchell for this dinner to work!) Describe your perfect Christmas dinner… Lots of fun with all my family around, especially those who are away!

€24

Keane’s

when you’re in your sitting room!

Five festive minutes with…James Cooke

ATHLEAGUE For the way we live today

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tion or vitally important to keep them away from your plate?

league and Serving Ath g areas for surroundin ears 106 y

Give me one reason you’re on Santa’s ‘nice’ list and one reason you’re on the ‘naughty’ list? Well for the ‘nice’ list, I completed the Great Ethiopian Run. For the ‘naughty’ list,

Jimmy Cooke triumphant after completing the race.

I’ve spent the year constantly cursing Man United. (There will be a few on that list so) Where will you be spending Christmas this year? I’ll be spending it in Loughrea with my sister.

You can have one wish for 2016. What is it? Manchester United to win the league! (World peace would have been easier James, but I like yours better!)

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Athleague/Castlecoote/Fuerty Five festive minutes with…GERRY GILL Research and reliability are essential ingredients when treating yourself to a cool used car, or indeed getting your current car repaired; so this week we asked the lovely and the very friendly and helpful Gerry Gill, owner of Gerry Gill Motors in Fuerty, to spend Five Festive Minutes chatting about some of the bargains that Santa has hidden up his sleeve for readers who may be in the market for a good quality second-hand car in 2016.

< MIRIAM KERINS

So Gerry, what’s on your used car menu for the New Year? Well we will have some really good quality used Ford Focus cars ranging from 2012 to 2015 and some lovely Ford Mondeos also from 2012 to 2015 on offer for the New Year, so drop in and have a chat with us, we’d be delighted to see everyone. And will you be wearing a silly Christmas jumper this year Gerry?

Ha ha, yes of course I will, but as usual I won’t get it until 5 pm on Christmas Eve because that’s the only time I get to go shopping. And, as you hit the shops Gerry, will you be singing your favourite Christmas song? Ha ha, I have to say I like Driving Home for Christmas by Chris Rea but I won’t be singing that ‘till 5 pm on Christmas Eve.

What about a favourite Christmas Movie? I like a bit of comedy and I particularly like Brendan Grace; he’s old school and oh Brendan O’Carroll’s Mrs Brown… they’re both very funny. Now, if Santa gave you some magical fairy dust to sprinkle, what wish would you grant for yourself for 2016? I’d wish for a more successful year than the one we’ve just had!

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from ...

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Castlecoote were Michael Murray, Emily Mulhern and Gelina Mulhern. Picture: Andrew Fox

COME VISIT THE "AWARD-WINNING" TOWN & COUNTRY INTERIORS. SET IN A VICTORIAN PERIOD TOWNHOUSE AN ALLADIN'S CAVE & TREASURE TROVE OF CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS, A "DESTINATION SHOP" WITH STRESS FREE PARKING "LES "LES PETITES TARTRES" & THE WONDERFUL NEW PETITES TARTRES" CAFE/RESTAURANT ON THE PREMISES Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Castlecoote were Orla Crehan, Amy Lavin and Laoise Sweeney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas from

Liam Heaney Livestock Carrier

CASTLECOOTE, ROSCOMMON

Telephone:

086 2564778

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from South Roscommon

Four Roads, Happy Knockcroghery s a m t s i r h C Lecarrow, from ever yone in Athlone, Ballinasloe Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

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< DAN DOONER

Having lived in South Roscommon for the last two years, and being able to offer an outsider’s view on the area, I was the obvious choice to cover it for this year’s Roscommon People Christmas feature. South Roscommon is not Dublin, nor is it Seoul or Hong Kong or any of the other large and loud places I’ve lived in or visited. In fact I genuinely remember using the “I was stuck behind a herd of sheep” excuse for being late to work. (Editor: you don’t say?) It’s a slower, quieter and ultimately more rewarding way of life down here, and the people of the area have welcomed us ‘blow-ins’ with open arms. South Roscommon is home to some of the county’s finest footballers, skillful hurlers/ camogie players, the beauty of Lough Ree and surrounding areas, sights and ruins of historical significance, performers and singers, a thriving social scene housed within the numerous local pubs and clubs – and so much more. So it was time for my Christmas walk around South Roscommon (I’ll be honest, I used my car, because there are deadlines!). My first port of call was Knockcroghery, where I dropped into a couple of the local pubs (already this is proving to be hard work.) The first pub I called on was Ned’s, where the darts team was mid-practice ahead of their crunch match against rivals, Creaton’s. Practice was going well, full of craic amid the Christmas decorations. One wag asked me if I was a spy from Creaton’s, another chimed in assuring me there would be no discussion of team tactics. I managed to extract myself from the warm ambience of Ned’s and made my way about 20 metres down the road to Murray’s, which featured recently in The Sunday World’s Pub Spy, and as I soon as arrived I could feel the GAA folklore dripping off the walls. Soon it was time to leave again so back out into the cold I went. Across the road from the Claypipe Centre is the Claypipe pub, another well-known establishment in the village. Outside this fine premises, my eyes were drawn to a small structure called

Warm South

‘The Village Grill’. Here’s the place to go after a night watching Phil Taylor wannabes in Ned’s. The little takeaway provides sustenance for Knockcroghery and those who pass through it. It’s not the only dining outlet in the area; the ‘Spotty Cup Tea Rooms’ have a home on the same side of the street as Ned’s and Murray’s. The next stop on my whirlwind tour of the south was to the village of Lecarrow, home of St. John’s Athletic FC, Coffey’s, Kelly’s and the Yew Tree, where I admired their crib and star combo and chatted with Niall Kelly and Sarah Jane Coffey. After checking on the Manchester United score (don’t talk to me) it was time to go again, as I’d heard that due to recent flooding Santa had looked into the possibility of leasing a jet ski from Bay Sports in Hodson Bay. I also wanted to get the lowdown on working off the turkey and selection boxes in the New Year so I called into Ollie Lennon, manager of the Hodson Bay Leisure Centre. Ollie and his team put me through my paces and warned me about ‘mindless snacking’ over Christmas. Ollie said, “Have a preset junk

allowance. Set yourself a daily junk calorie limit and make sure to live within it. People should generally allow themselves 300 junk calories daily throughout the year but should increase this to 400 (not 4,000!) calories daily over Christmas.” The secret they say is to be aware of what you’re eating and get off the couch and go for a walk. Better yet, call down to the Hodson Bay and let the staff advise you on various forms of legalised torture! As I was driving to the Hodson Bay I recognised a local lady walking in the wind and rain. I stopped and offered her a lift as she is a regular along the road. “Dan, how are ya?” came the happy greeting. She was on her way to visit a friend in Hodson Bay on one of her daily journeys. She asked how I was and complained about the “shocking” floods. As I dropped her off she was in the middle of describing how cold it was at times up where she lived. She climbed out of the car and went on her way. It was a timely reminder that while we are all excited about Christmas and getting together with family and friends, it is also a time for calling on neighbours. Even if they are blow-ins, like yours truly!

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from South Roscommon

welcome in Roscommon

Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

Sean Connolly BUTCHER Church Street, Ballinasloe Tel: 090 9642259 Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and thank you for your support during the year from

Coyle’s & Sons

FOUR ROADS, CO. ROSCOMMON

TEL.: 090 6623315 Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

Harry Murray Agri Contractor FOR ALL YOUR AGRI CONTRACTING NEEDS Mobile: (087) 2323933 Racecourse, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

LUE AT ... A V B R E P U S

Pictured at the 2014 Knockcroghery St. Stephen’s Day Fun Run and Walk were Bronagh O’Connor, Ann O’Connor, Ann Scally, Patricia Martin, Blaithín Kenny and Tuco. Picture: Andrew Fox

Volunteers sought for New Year ‘WeighIn’ for Hospice Knockcroghery Hospice Support Group is looking for participants for their six-week ‘Weigh-In’ Challenge. Registration/Information Night and private weighin will take place in Culleen Hall, Knockcroghery on Friday, 8th January from 8 pm, with MC Willie Hegarty. There will be motivational activities organised each week such as swimming, dancing, walking and lots more fun events. Guest speakers will be Anita Shiel from Motiva-

tion Management Clinic and Anthony Jinx, fitness trainer. Tina Geraghty from Molloys Pharmacy will discuss products they produce and supply which support nutritional health. Registration is €50 or €10 weekly for six weeks. Final night includes music and a raffle with lots of prizes. The challenge is open to male and female participants. There are motivational activities organised for each week and after all the hard work a prize for two

for Breaffy House or the Hodson Bay to the female that loses the most weight – and likewise for the males! Weigh-out will be on Friday 19th January. The winners will be announced on Saturday 20th February in Murray’s Pub, Knockcroghery. Music by Matt Rogers, with raffle and good craic guaranteed. This challenge is well worth doing following the busy Christmas period! Contact 094 9388666 for more details. The proceeds will go to the local Hospice/Palliative Care

Services. Roscommon/Mayo Hospice also wish to thank all those who supported them throughout the year and gave so generously to the cause of the Hospice. It is greatly appreciated. The funds raised will continue to help provide local palliative care services free of charge to all who need it in the community. Grateful thanks also to all the volunteers and local support groups for giving their time so freely to help with fundraising events

throughout the two counties and the volunteers who help in the various hospice shops. Thanks to local media, newspaper editors and regional reporters for helping to promote the various fundraising events during the year. Also to all who help in the sale of Christmas cards and shine a light appeal during the Christmas period. The Foundation wishes everyone a very happy Christmas and all that is good for the New Year.

Naughton’s Car Sales Ltd. BALLYDANGAN, CO. ROSCOMMON, ATHLONE, ROSCOMMON Tel.: 090 9673411/ 087 232 2230 Fax: 090 9673411 Website: www.naughtonsgarage.ie Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from John, Auriol & Sarah Jane and all the crew in

Coffey’s

Bar & Food Store Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon

Established 1918

Traditional Irish country pub and grocery.

Phone: 090 6661118 • Coffeysbarlecarrow MUSIC SESSIONS OVER THE CHRISTMAS PERIOD Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

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

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

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from South Roscommon A very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year from

O’Sullivan Keegan & Co.

Auditors & Accountants

Contact: Brian Lennon

(Tel) 090 64 93226 / 090 64 92701 (Fax) 090 64 44671 A very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year from

Five festive minutes with…Sarah Jane Coffey I got thirsty on my walk through Knockcroghery and Lecarrow so I decided to stop off for a drink (non-alcoholic of course, I’m working!). Coffey’s was showing the Man United match so I stopped in to check the score. Surely a guaranteed three points against Bournemouth! Sarah-Jane answered my questions in between my expletives aimed at the TV. < DAN DOONER

What three famous

people would you love to pull a pint for over Christmas? I would love to pull a pint for Robbie Henshaw, Bon Jovi or Mike Denver. What was the funniest moment in Coffey’s in 2015? The funniest moment of 2015 would have to be when we had a surprise visit from John Brennan, the Head of the CIA. It took us a while to realise who he was, but there was great fun and

excitement when we did. (We’re reliably informed that Coffey’s is not under investigation from the CIA, the man just wanted a pint) If Santa could deliver one present to you this year what would it be? If Santa could deliver health and happiness to all that drink in Coffey’s this year that would be great. Looking back on 2015, who would you enjoy barring from the pub?

(Smiles far too much) I think I would have to bar Alex Ferguson as he has left a lot of our customers sad and depressed this Christmas! What are you looking forward to most in 2016? We are looking forward to a long, hot summer with everyone sitting outside the shop eating ice cream, and outside the pub drinking pint bottles. (Some of them do that during the winter!)

* Coffey’s wishes all of our customers a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Ph: (090) 6444690 Fax: (090) 6490721

All sorts of characters in Ballyforan this Christmas

Email: info@athlonetyredepot.ie

< DAN DOONER

FIRST STOP CLOSE TO YOUR CAR. CLOSE TO YOU

ATHLONE TYRE DEPOT Roscommon Road, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

Call in to avail of a FREE Tyre Check & Car Check We are stockist of all major brands Bridgestone, Firestone, Goodyear, Dunlop, Pirelli, Michelin, Vredestein, Hankook and many more call out service

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086 2075699

Paul Wishing all our clients a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year

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

090 64 94311

1 Fry Place, Athlone, Co. Westmeath info@mpcuddyaccountants.com

Our reputation has been built on client satisfaction

From Brian Larkin & All the Staff @

Phone: 086 0505050/090 64 17800 Hodson Bay, Athlone Thank you for all your support throughout the year!

I recently found myself in the principal’s office again, albeit on better terms than in previous visits! Mr. Thomas Murray is a very busy man these days; as well as being the man in charge at Ballyforan NS, he’s also the chairman of St. Dominic’s GAA Club and as of last weekend he is now Development Officer with Roscommon GAA. It was his directing career which interested me, however, as I was there to find out more about the 26th annual instalment of the school’s Christmas play. In spite of his many talents he was quite modest about it all. “The previous principal, Joe Clarke, had been running this before me, so I’m just continuing on that good work.” As you can imagine this is a team effort and teachers, staff, and the parents’ association are all involved as well as students from transition year in Colaiste Mhuire, Ballygar. “The TY students designed and built the stage and the Parents’ Association have been very active too. Every year previous sixth class students come along to the play so we usually have them seated up the front.” The production itself involves the older students who will stage the hilarious show Ali Baba and the Bongo Bandits, and the younger students who will stage a musical called Whoops-a-Daisy Angel, which is a delightful story about a disorganised angel

Joshua Tynan, David Kelly, Gavin Meares, Jake Garvey, Eoin Dolan, Erin Garvey, Sean Scott.

who is chosen to show the way to Bethlehem. While assuring me of the inclusiveness of both productions in which every child had the opportunity

to take on a speaking part, Mr. Murray took time to thank everyone involved in the production including the teachers, parents, staff members and the

Robyn Fahy-Burke, Aoife Kelly, James Kennedy, Adam Daly.

board of management led by Fr. Francis Beirne (another busy man!) The production will take place this Thursday (17th December) in Ballyforan

Hall. It starts at 8 pm and admission is just €3 so come along to the event which marks the real start of Christmas in Ballyforan!

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from South Roscommon

Murray’s Bar

My audience with the junior and senior infants of Ballyforan NS

Knockcroghery Friday, 18th December:

Christmas Party Night Monday, 21st December: Card Game for Christmas Hamper

< DAN DOONER

If there were two things I learned from my recent visit back to primary school, it’s that Ballyforan NS students are all very well behaved and very talented and Santa Claus will be very busy in the area this Christmas. (Okay, that’s three things, maybe I should visit more often!) I had the privilege of meeting the school’s junior and senior infants along with their lovely teacher, Ms. Moran, this week and I got the rundown on how Santa processes orders. “We wrote Santa letters and then we put them in that big bag!” I was told by Robyn and this was confirmed by Aoife and Abbie as well as numerous others including Adam whose dad works at An Post – so he definitely knows what he’s talking about. (I wonder if they’re as forthcoming with their homework!) Ms. Moran – from Athlone, but we won’t hold that against her – told me she was heading to

Saturday, 26th December: Music with -

Matt Martin

Thursday, 31st December - New Year’s Eve:

Ring in our 100th Year at Murray’s with our usual Sing Song on New Year’s Eve John, Etna and family wish all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year. We would like to extend a special thank you for all the support given to us in Knockcroghery over the years as we enter in to our 100th year in business.

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas & Prosperous New Year from Ted, Bríd and family Andrea Keegan, Emily Hough, Emily Dunning, Rachel Moore, Oisin Fines.

Lapland after the Christmas play. Santa has spies everywhere! A recent letter from the big man himself contained a stuffed Rudolph. Stuffed with what you might ask? “A camera!” shouted Robyn. Ms. Moran

confirmed that Rudolph was indeed concealing a camera. “It’s a camera that sees everything I can’t.” The students told me exactly what they wanted for Christmas and I was pleasantly surprised that tablets and electronic

BALLYFORAN N.S. PRESENTS

devices were scarce on the list. Although a Massey Ferguson will be a difficult proposition for even Santa himself! Anyway, this class of talented students didn’t have time to be talking to me, they had a musical

to prepare for. So I said slán and wished them and their teacher a merry Christmas. If Ms. Moran and Rudolph the red-nosed camera provide a positive report, it’ll be a very merry Christmas indeed!

O’Connell’s Bar

Brideswell Tel.: 090 6488140

Hope to see you all over the festive season

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Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from South Roscommon

SMITHS of Athlone

Season’s greetings to all our Customers & Friends Thank You for your continued support Hope you all have a Prosperous 2016 From all the Management & Staff

Five festive minutes with…Niall Kelly Niall Kelly and St. John’s Athletic Football Club are doing fine work in Lecarrow. New astro-turf has been followed up by accessible changing rooms and a new club shop. Not to mention the underage football and two senior teams providing football for the locals. Niall had just about enough time to sit down and answer our Christmas questions. He even has a pop at some local rivals!

< DAN DOONER

You can invite 3 famous people to Christmas dinner, who would they be? Paul McGrath and Stephanie Roche for good football stories and Clint Eastwood because he’s a great actor. Christmas present from Santa – 6 points against local rivals or tickets to a Euro ’16 match? I’m very hopeful I’ll get

tickets for the Euros (Ah howiya Niall, you’re looking well!) so I’d take six points against Rahara Rovers any day, but we don’t play them this year so I’ll settle for three points against Dysart on Sunday in the Premier Division! Player at your club most likely to struggle in the New Year after enjoying Christmas too much? Seánie Doyle knows how to enjoy himself! Hope-

fully he won’t struggle in the New Year though! St. Stephen’s Day – Christmas re-runs or Man United on TV? Man United on TV, without Van Gaal. His football is boring! (That’s a new one!) St. John’s make one January signing, who would it be? A young Gerry Watson who was a great player in

his day, but I suppose Cristiano Ronaldo would do! (Sure isn’t he called the ‘Portuguese Gerry Watson’ in Lecarrow?)

Monksland, Athlone

Tel.: 090 64 90022

Pupils from St. John’s N.S., Lecarrow with their Christmas Shoeboxes as part of the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal.

reetings to Season’s g all one and

Fun Run/Walk in Knockcroghery This St. Stephen’s Day why not shake off the Christmas cobwebs with a 5-mile fun run/walk? The run/walk will start at Knockcroghery Community Centre at 2 pm and is in aid of Irish Guide

Dogs for the Blind and Roscommon Sports Partnership. The organisers have asked for a donation of €10 as the race fee, but children go free. There will be refreshments and a

free raffle on the day so come along and run or walk off the excess of Christmas Day while supporting very worthy causes! For further information please contact Marian on 086-8127128.

Five festive minutes with…PHIL O’CONNELL We all know that visiting Santa is a magical experience for the entire family and where better to make those memories than Glendeer Pet Farm where we spent a wonderful Five Festive Feelgood Minutes with a delightful, cheerful lady who just loves Christmas; owner Phil O’Connell, whom, along with hubby Eamon and hard-working daughters Kevina and Charlotte, are busy this year hosting Ireland’s Lapland event with a little help from Santa and his reindeer Dancer and Prancer – who told me Rudolph was back at the workshop supervising those cheeky

elves to make sure they have all the gifts and toys ready for the good girls and boys of County Roscommon – so make sure you get to bed early on Christmas Eve, kids.

visit, we can take them by appointment so give us a call; we’re open up to the 23rd.

< MIRIAM KERINS

Ah yes, I love the original ‘Santa Claus The Movie’ with Dudley Moore.

You must be up to your eyes Phil; do you still have spaces available for a Santa visit? Oh yes, we do a ‘walkin’ service for families, so no need to book if you’re a family and we cater for groups too, in fact Kevina is out with a group at the moment and if any groups wish to

Do you have a favourite Christmas movie?

And what about an aul Christmas song? I love Silent Night, it’s a classic and I particularly love Susan Boyle’s version; she does a lovely job signing it. I think Silent Night is the essence of what Christmas is all about.

Silly Christmas Jumpers? Would you wear one? Ha ha, oh yes, I’m wearing one as we speak, it’s got a big Christmas tree on it complete with twinkling lights. Sure you have to wear one; it’s the only time of the year you get to be a bit silly. If Santa, Dancer and Prancer out on the farm gave you a bit of magical fairy dust to sprinkle right now, what would your 2016 wish be? I’d wish for peace and harmony in the world for everyone.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from South Roscommon Wishing all our customers a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

Five festive minutes with…Cormac Sheehy Celebrating the miracle that is Christmas time, we caught up with adoring new dad, the tired but very happy and good-humoured Cormac Sheehy, whose darling wife Ann and co-owner of The Yew Tree Restaurant and The Bastion Kitchen in Athlone welcomed their first-born, a beautiful baby daughter called Annie into the world a mere five weeks ago. We wish this lovely family a life of health and happiness as they embark on the first of

what we are sure will be many, many Santa visits to come. < MIRIAM KERINS

So Cormac, you’re a busy man but in between the night feeds and the nappy changes, will you be open over the Christmas? Oh yes, we are open right up to Christmas Eve and we have a delicious and varied menu on offer as well as stocking our

special craft beers.

on for Christmas Day.

What’s your favourite Christmas memory? Well we’ve just welcomed our new baby daughter Annie into the world so this year I hope to be making the first of those special memories. (Aaah what a lovely dad!).

Will you be serenading baby Annie with a Christmas song? Have you got a favourite one? Yep, it’s Chris Rea’s Driving Home for Christmas.

Do you have a silly Christmas jumper? Yes, I do but I won’t be wearing it out in public ha ha. It’s got a lot of reindeer on it and I’ll be putting it

And what about a favourite Christmas movie? Oh it’s got to be The Grinch with Jim Carrey. If Santa gave you some magical fairy dust to sprinkle, what wish

MICHAEL KENNY CAR SALES Galway Road Athlone Tel.: 090 6437103 Mobile: 086 8187103 ALL MAKES OF NEW AND USED CARS SUPPLIED & SERVICED would you grant for yourself for 2016? Oh that’s easy, good weather and lots of tourists.

THE HAIR LOUNGE

LADIES & GENTS HAIRDRESSING 090 66 61448

Prop: Nessa (Mannion) Sherringham

Lecarrow Primary School scoops award < ‘I LOVED THEIR ENTRY’ – BRENT POPE

Minister of State for New Communities, Culture, Equality and Drugs Strategy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin presented representatives from 3st and 4nd class, Tamara Craven and Tommy Naughton from Glanduff N.S., with a prestigious county award for their inspirational video ‘Someone Like Me’. The special ceremony was held in Farmleigh House in Dublin recently. The awards saw primary school students from around the country arrive at Farmleigh House as part of a national essay competition hosted by the Department of Justice and Equality to promote positive attitudes towards disability in primary schools. The competition was entitled ‘Someone Like Me’. The students in attendance were shortlisted for their entries, which saw a mix of written and video essays, with many

showcasing their own disabilities or those of their friends and families, all with a common theme of celebration. Minister Aodhán Ó Ríordáin commented “The primary schools competition is an excellent opportunity for the youngest members of society to have a carefully thought out conversation around disabilities against the backdrop of the classroom. It is so important to drive this agenda from a young age and teach children to respect themselves and how unique they are and also to respect the uniqueness of the people around them.” The Judging panel for the competition included Brent Pope, rugby analyst and author of many children’s books including Woody the Whale, The Wheezing Wolf, Bones, Arnold The Anteater and The Adventures of Herbie. He joined acclaimed Galway children’s author Deirdre Sullivan and a range of other judges to choose the national

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Knockcroghery Village, Co. Roscommon info@thehairlounge.ie

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Pictured is Minister of State for New Communities, Culture, Equality and Drugs Strategy Aodhán Ó Ríordáin presenting Tamara Craven and Tommy Naughton from Glanduff N.S., with a prestigious county award for their inspirational video ‘Someone Like Me’.

winner. “I was delighted to act as a judge for the competition and was really drawn to the theme of Someone Like Me. I am no stranger to feeling different and

Christmas is coming and this reporter’s getting fat(ter) so I jogged (drove) down to the Hodson Bay Spa and Leisure Centre to get some vital tips on getting back in shape in the New Year. While I was there I put our Christmas questions to manager, Ollie Lennon, who is no stranger to training.

mas dinner, who would you invite?

What’s your favourite Christmas movie?

Brian Cody, Mickey Harte and Mick O’Dwyer; three of the greatest GAA managers of my lifetime.

Unfortunately in my line of work I don’t get the opportunity to watch too many Christmas movies, but Home Alone is the ultimate classic.

< DAN DOONER

Vital nutrition. My mother did teach me never to tell lies!

If you could have three famous people at Christ-

OPENING HOURS

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and we look forward to seeing you all in 2016 - The Hair Lounge team.

really believe it is so important that we celebrate our uniqueness, what sets us apart. Writing and expressing ourselves is a terrific way to do this and I spent a lot of time re-

Five festive minutes with…Ollie Lennon

Brussels sprouts – vital nutrition or disaster in Christmas dinner?

*GHD stockists

What will Santa be bringing you this year? Santa already brought me my present this year; back in October he delivered a beautiful baby boy, Fionn,

to our house. He provided Oisín with a little brother, so no need for any more presents this Christmas! What one wish do you have for the New Year? My greatest wish is that my two boys and family will be happy and healthy. A lotto win and Sam Maguire back in Roscommon wouldn’t go amiss either!

viewing the entries. I was really blown away by the standard of the essays and the story many of them were telling. I absolutely loved Roscommon’s video entry,” said Brent Pope.

Tel.: 090 6490242

We would like to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Dublin Road & Monksland, Athlone

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from West Roscommon

White House Hotel in Ballinlough to re-open in New Year < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Happy Christmas from everyone in

Ballinagare, Ballinlough, Frenchpark & Loughglynn

Many hotels in west Roscommon have been lying idle in recent years, such as Tully’s in Castlerea and the Abbeyfield in Ballaghaderreen, but Ballinlough is set for a major boost in the New Year – the White House Hotel is to re-open. The premises has been closed for over two years, but Yorkshire native Peter Kennedy, who purchased it in May 2014, has confirmed that it will reopen for

trading during the second week in March. He and his fiancée, Sinéad Cox, from Keadue, have invested heavily in the business, to the tune of €500,000 – a signal of their commitment to the project. The news has been widely welcomed in Ballinlough, not least because it will create employment and enhance the village’s economy. Sceptics might wonder about the long-term viability of a hotel at

Ballinlough, especially when some far bigger towns – such as Boyle, Ballaghaderreen and Castlerea – have no such business at present. Others however will argue that there is a market for a hotel in the village, noting its proximity to Ireland West Airport at Knock. They also say there will be much passing trade from places like Galway city and Westport. Fittingly, the new hotel will be renamed ‘Kennedy’s at the White House’.

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Forde Bros BALLINLOUGH LTD. Aluminium & uP.V.C. Doors, Windows, Patios & Conservatories, Curtain Walling • ALL OF OUR WINDOWS AND DOORS HAVE INTERNAL GLAZING • We supply double and triple glazing – whichever our customer requires • All our doors are secured with 5-point locks

Tel/Fax: 094 964 0525 Mobile: 086 8120324 www.fordewindowanddoors.ie Email: fordebrosltd@hotmail.com

Wishing everyone, near and far, a very Happy Christmas and every good wish for 2016 from

Creaton’s SHOP & PUB

Loughglynn, Co. Roscommon Tel: 094 98 80124 Tuesday, 29th December

Annual Christmas Jumper Party Wishing everyone a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas and every good wish for 2016 from

M. CARNEY Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon

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Pictured is 96-year-old Tom Gallagher from Lisacul (the oldest man to contribute to the book) with Cllr. Paddy Kilduff (Cathaoirleach) and Gerry Boland at the launch of the book, ‘38 Men Talking’. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Seamus sheds light on Christmas in Cloonfad < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and New Year

JOHN MULVIHILL ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR FRENCHPARK, CO. ROSCOMMON

Tel.: 087 2502901

About 500 yards outside Cloonfad village, west Roscommon, is a bungalow that is lit each year with thousands of Christmas lights. There is barely an area of the property that is not adorned with lights, including the house itself, the lawns, fields and trees. It has been a labour of love for Seamus Staunton, the home-owner, for 30 years now. Every September, he begins the preparation work, before switching the lights on in early

December. They are lit every day from 5 pm to 12.30 am until Little Christmas on January 6. People come from far and near to view them. Seamus has no idea where the idea came from. “I started it years ago with one tree and just put lights on it! It grew from there then, year after year,” said the 65-year-old. “It’s a hobby. Bits and pieces are added every year.” Having such an array of lights on for a month or so is costly, not surprisingly. “I’d have a wee

little bit of change out of €1,000,” Seamus reveals. For the past 15 years, Seamus’ venture has been in aid of charity. “I was doing it for Mayo/Roscommon Hospice first,” he said, before poignantly revealing why he switched to Cancer Care West. “My daughter Karen died of cancer four years ago,” he said. “She asked me to do it for Cancer Care West. I have been doing it for them for the last four years.” The annual switching-on of the lights at the Staunton household is always a popular event at Cloon-

fad. This year, the torrential rain of Storm Desmond hampered the event, held on Saturday, December 5, but it still went ahead. “Everything went according to plan, except for the weather,” said Seamus. “I had a marquee in the garage, on wheels. All I had to do was wheel it out for people and for Mr and Mrs Claus to arrive by sleigh, but, my God, you couldn’t put a dog out (in the conditions)! It was shocking. But the lights were turned on and we were in the house for hours afterwards, having the craic!”

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from West Roscommon

Change, community and challenges OURPLACE,OURYEAR < HUGH LYNN

The year 2015 was one that brought a level of change to the locality. During the summer we said farewell to John O’Dowd who served as Principal of Scoil Mhuire Lourdes, Loughglynn from September 2007 until August 2015. John is now based in Abbeycartron NS, Elphin. He is being replaced by Mrs Cathy McVann. Sport is always an important part of life around ‘The Woodlands’ and this year was no different. The very successful ‘Ros Go Run’ half-marathon is held

on All-Ireland Hurling Final morning. This year, as in previous years, we saw a large turnout in the half marathon, 5k and 10k races. It is planned to continue the event next year. Our local soccer club, Loughglynn United, were the victims of an arson attack when the club’s changing facilities were burned down. This event united the entire community behind the club. The community both at home and away donated a wonderful sum of money to enable them to continue. The local GAA club Éire Óg also donated their week’s entire lotto income to the soccer club.

On the field Loughglynn United were promoted to Division 1 of the Roscommon & District League. There has been a huge resurgence in interest in soccer locally and the club hope to have an underage structure back up and working soon. Éire Óg GAA club continued to provide games and activity for those aged from five to 75 at the wonderful James Timothy Memorial Park. The arrival of a new manager added to the excitement in the club, who had a successful year, gaining promotion back to Division 2 of the County Adult Football League. In addition, the under-

age teams continued to compete at all levels from under-six up to under-20. The under-12 girls will have a medal presentation over the Christmas holidays. Local company Bio Friendly Limited, run by Brendan and Esther Gordon, was shortlisted for the National Agribusiness Award 2015, which are sponsored by FBD Insurance. They make Sewage Treatment Systems for one-off houses, and also upgrade existing septic tanks. During the August Bank Holiday weekend we had the wonderful Loughglynn Music Festival with stars

Outgoing County Board PRO Colm Beirne presents the ‘PRO phone’ to Hugh Lynn, the incoming PRO last weekend! Picture: Andrew Fox

such as Brendan Shine, Derek Ryan and Johnny Brady bringing great crowds to the community centre, and then in September we had Michael English performing in the Parish Church. We as a community are still awaiting the arrival of the ambulance which was to be based in the former Garda Station. Hopefully

Morahan’s Bar – the oldest business in Roscommon < EOGHAN YOUNGMURPHY

The website ThinkBusiness.ie recently went on a journey through the country to find Ireland’s oldest business – and it found that the oldest one in Co. Roscommon was Morahan’s Bar in Ballinagare. It has been in the same family since it was established in 1641, and currently Morahan’s is run by the eighth generation of the Morahan family. An interesting note is that each generation of the family has had a Bernard Morahan, with the name being passed on from generation to generation. The pub-cum-grocery is currently run by Maeve Morahan, who is 82, but her son Bernard assists her from time to time, though his main job is as an accountant with Bernard J Morahan & Co in the village. Bernard explained how the pub has evolved down through the years. “In 1641, you needed a licence for selling tea, tobacco and alcohol,” he said. “We have the physical licence from them. The pub was passed on from one generation to the next, to maintain and

look after it.” The family were involved in various businesses. “My father was involved in agricultural machinery,” said Bernard. “Prior to that, we were involved in radio and TV installations. “Going back again, they would have gone around the country ‘eggling’, as they called it – swapping groceries for eggs.” Bernard explained that the family were always traders, transporting goods by barges along the Shannon, arriving at Carrick-on-Shannon. There are certainly no plans to close the pubcum-grocery in the near future. The groceries are sold to the front; the pub is to the rear. Maeve begins trading at 9 am each morning. Bernard isn’t so sure about the outlet’s longterm future, though. “Things are changing,” he said. “The population base is gone: you are relying on a very small population. The whole retail scene has changed completely. To survive going forward is extremely difficult.” He said that 50 per cent of the business now

it’ll be in our midst early in 2016. * Hugh Lynn, a former Progressive Democrats

councillor, was elected PRO of the Roscommon GAA County Board at the weekend

Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and New Year

CONNACHT SCAFFOLDING SERVICES BALLYHAUNIS

Tel.: 094 9630198 email: connachtscaffolding@eircom.net Season’s greetings to all our Patrons from Jackie and staff at the

Corskeagh Lounge Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon

TEL.: 086 3447073 Wednesday, 23rd December

Christmas Party Night Commencing at 7pm ALL WELCOME

Places still available

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

Registered Auditors, Accountants and Tax Advisors

Accountants, Business Consultants, Taxation Advisors Ballinagare, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 094 9870388 Fax: 094 9870445 Email: enquiries@morahan.ie Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year

Maeve Morahan

comes from passing trade. At present, the N5 (Dublin-Westport) goes directly through the village, but plans are at advanced stage for Ballinagare and a number of others areas to be bypassed, when the road is upgraded from Ballaghaderreen to

Scramogue. “When this proposed bypass happens, all of north Roscommon will be decimated,” he said. “It will be a line through Roscommon.” Mr. Morahan reckons, in that scenario, when people come to Co. Roscom-

mon, they won’t see a business until they get to Tarmonbarry. “The bigger towns, like Strokestown, will survive because they have a big enough hinterland. The small businesses rely on passing trade, that is a problem.”

COLEMAN’S

SHOP & POST OFFICE ●

Lotto ● Gas ● Coal ● Briquettes ● Turf ● Timber

Loughglynn Co. Roscommon Tel: 094 9880001

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from North Roscommon

Christmas kicks off in Tulsk! < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Elphin, Happy Boyle, Christmas Tulsk, from everyone in Carrick-on-Shannon

The fourth annual Tulsk Christmas Fair took place at the Tulsk Inn Country Ballroom last Sunday, with over 30 stalls on display. The stalls were many and varied, ranging from arts and cakes to woodwork, while there was also a visit from Mrs Claus, who took letters to Santa. The fair was in aid of Cancer Care West, which provides support to cancer patients and their families

from all over the west of Ireland. In a Facebook post after Sunday’s event, the organisers said: “Thank you everyone who showed up and made our fair a wonderful event. “We are so grateful for the time and effort that our stallholders and customers put into this fun fundraising event. “The weather and low footfall this year was disappointing, but we’re nearly in a new year and it will all happen against next December.” All of Cancer Care West’s services

are provided at no cost to patients and they rely heavily on fundraising/ donations to meet the cost of these services. One of these services is Inis Aoibhan, which is located on the grounds of University Hospital Galway and provides accommodation to patients undergoing radiotherapy treatment at the hospital. Inis Aoibhan is a 33-bed residence, which provides a ‘home away from home’ for patients.

Children from Abbeycartron NS, Elphin, pictured with over 110 shoeboxes for the Team Hope Shoebox Appeal. This is the 12th year that children from Abbeycartron NS have participated in the campaign.

Season’s greetings to one and all from

Tulsk Laundry & Dry Cleaning Services

A very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year to all our customers and thank you for your custom throughout 2015 from

MICHAEL COONEY & SONS LTD

For all your washing and dry cleaning needs and St. Eithne’s Rest Care Centre Long & Short term stays and respite Care Tulsk, Co. Roscommon

Homevalue

Tel: 071 9639065

Elphin, Co. Roscommon Telephone: 071 96 35470

Thank you for your custom and support throughout the year Wishing all our Patrons a very Happy Christmas and New Year Thank you for your custom in 2015 from all at

The Harp & Shamrock Keadue, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071 9647288 New Year’s Eve - 31st December 2015

LIVE MUSIC ON THE NIGHT

HAPPY CHRISTMAS FROM

PADRAIC DURKAN & ASSOCIATES Agricultural Consultants & Financial Advisers (Farm Accounts & Financial Planning) New Herd Number Applications GLAS Applications & Recording Service ● Farm Accounts & Financial Planning ● Land leasing Agreements/Expert Witness/CPO Negotiations ● Completion of Farm Health & Safety Statements ● ●

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A very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year to all our customers and thank you for your custom throughout 2015 from

ELPHIN PHARMACY ELPHIN, CO. ROSCOMMON Tel. 071 96 35137 Season’s greetings to one and all from

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from North Roscommon Wishing all our Members a very Happy Christmas and every good wish for 2016

Hotel and CCTV system top of Boyle Town Team’s agenda < EOGHAN YOUNGMURPHY

Boyle Town Team may still be in its infancy, having only been formed in earnest about two months ago, but they have ambitious plans for the future. Town Teams were established by Roscommon County Council this year, aimed at revitalising large towns in the county, namely Boyle, Strokestown, Ballaghaderreen, Castlerea, Monksland and Roscommon town. All in all, €175,000 was allocated to the initiative this year, funding which was divided between the six areas. Boyle received €12,500, some of which they are spending on short-term initiatives. What Boyle really needs is a hotel, the Town Team chairperson Brian Nerney told the Roscommon People. The Royal Hotel, which closed about five years ago, has been for sale for over a year, but there has been no sign of a purchase happening. “A hotel is imperative for the town and it is something that we are very conscious of,” said Brian. “The Town Team

will do everything in their power to ensure that there is movement on a hotel for Boyle in the next year.” A greenway for cyclists and walkers is being developed by Roscommon County Council from Boyle town to Lough Key Forest Park, and members of the team are involved in planning the route. One long-term project that the team have in mind is a CCTV system. However, mindful that the Glenamaddy community were forced to turn off their system recently, after the Gardaí said it breached data protection laws, Mr. Nerney said that they were not going to rush into full implementation of a CCTV project. “We have earmarked funding for it in our initial tranche of funds,” said Brian, explaining that the project was currently at phase one level. “We have had discussions already with the local Gardaí in relation to a CCTV system for the town. But it is a very complicated project. We have to work closely with the Gardaí to ensure that it is an acceptable system that goes in.” A number of small

Elphin dazzling with lights! < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Like many other towns in north Roscommon, Elphin is resplendent with Christmas lights this month, and a very hard-working committee have put plenty of effort into the project. The town’s Special Events Committee, comprised of about ten volunteers, hold table quizzes and church gate collections to finance the effort. The trees in the town are lit up, along with Main Street and around the Elphin Cathedral. It’s an expensive commitment, however. The committee’s chairman, Paul McDermott, said: “We have to get a top-up of lights every year because damage is caused by the weather. “When you are stretching the wires, it is nearly impossible to put up lights without the weather having an effect on them.” The electricity bill alone comes to about €500. The lights are erected on a phased basis over about a month. “We do it for an hour here or there, whenever we get a chance,” said Paul of the voluntary effort. It’s not just the Christmas lights project that the committee are involved in; they also assist with any major event that takes place in the town during the year. “We organise the festival in Elphin on St Patrick’s Day for the parade,” said Paul, adding that, amongst other contributions, the members erect bunting, help with directing traffic, and paint the windows of businesses with a St Patrick’s Day theme.

projects are currently being undertaken by the team. The closure of so many businesses in Boyle in recent years has created a need to enhance the appearance of some parts of the town. The team has identified ten such derelict buildings and they are about to start brightening them up by placing artwork in the windows.

The team also allocated €3,000 towards additional features for the Christmas lighting that adorns the town. Brian said: “And we have given major funding to Boyle Town Traders for the promotion of the town in the run-up to Christmas.” Boyle is arguably a town that has felt the effects of

Christmas opening hours are as follows:

the recession more keenly than others. The new Boyle Town Team are doing the utmost to reverse its fortunes. Brian said that some light was beginning to emerge. “There is an air of optimism around the town,” he said. “A lot of new businesses have opened up.”

Thursday, December 24th: Closed Friday, December 25th: Closed Saturday, December 26th: Closed Monday, December 28th: Closed Tuesday, December 29th: 10.30am – 4.00pm Wednesday, December 30th: 10.30am – 4.00pm Thursday, December 31st: Closed Friday, January 1st: Closed Saturday, January 2nd: 10.00am - 1.00pm Normal hours resume from Monday 4th January

A very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year to all our customers and thank you for your custom throughout 2015 from

Megan McDonagh, Brona Mulrennan and Amanda Wynne who were carol singing in King House. Picture: Mary Regan.

No. 12, North West Business & Technology Park, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim

Five festive minutes with…MARY RATTIGAN Nobody knows better than a neat freak like me how important those cubby holes, shelves and storage spaces are to us women when the entire family arrives carrying coats, hats, scarves and oh dear God, a mountain of kiddies’ toys over the Christmas. So, with storage solutions on my mind, I spent Five Festive Minutes with the lovely, communityspirited and very helpful Mary Rattigan of Rattigan Fitted Kitchens and Bedrooms in Elphin who tells us she’s open right up to 22nd December this year to cater for readers who want to stockpile away those items that are surplus to requirement over the party season.

Christmas – you have to plan something like that – so it’s usually around September that we get customers looking at kitchen designs. But we are getting people in the door who are seeking storage solutions; homeowners look at cubby holes and think, now there’s a space where I could use to store little knick-knacks or books or put hats and coats out of the way, so it’s definitely picking up. We are getting new homeowners coming in looking for bedroom furniture and sliderobes and then we are getting other customers coming in looking to renovate and upgrade.

Yes I have two. I love listening to Silent Night. It’s a classic. I sing in the Church choir and my favourite Christmas song to sing is Oh Holy Night. We are singing on Christmas Eve.

Have you got a favourite Christmas movie?

< MIRIAM KERINS

Yes, I love Miracle on 34th Street; it’s a real feelgood movie that generates a feelgood atmosphere.

Well I’ve always been community-oriented and I would wish for a trip to Africa to do some volunteer work with The Niall Mellon Township Trust next year. I’d love to do that. I would also like to wish our customers a happy Christmas and thank them for their support over the past year.

Are you busy over the Christmas Mary? Things are definitely picking up and I find that people don’t generally look for kitchens around

Do you have a favourite Christmas song?

Do you wear a silly Christmas jumper? No, I like my style too much and I love to wear red at Christmas, but the kids wear the silly jumpers. If Santa walked into the shop right now and sprinkled some magical fairy dust on you what would you wish for in 2016?

Tel/Fax: 071 9650999 Email: noonecarpetsandfurniture@eircom.net ●

Domestic ● Commercial ● Industrial Free Measuring/Estimates

A very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year to all our customers and thank you for your custom throughout 2015 from

John Murray Deerpark, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071 9662684 Mobile: 087 2650366 Email: jmurrayff @gmail.com

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Fitted Furniture Kitchen & Bedoom Design Specialists Our philosophy is simple ... To create fitted furniture of quality & superior design at an affordable price Sliding or Traditional Wardrobes Showrooms 3D Computer Drawings Over 30 Years in business

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from North Roscommon Thomas, Michael and Tommy Joe Burke would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and every good wish for the New Year

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Burke Bros Garage SIMI Approved Vehicle Sales / Service / Crash Repairs

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A year of many highlights in Elphin OURPLACE,OURYEAR

CLASHAGANNY, TULSK, CO ROSCOMMON

Tel: 071 963 9016 Fax: 071 963 9096 Wishing all my loyal customers a very Happy Christmas and thank you for your support for the last 25 years of business

Newline Garage Elphin, Co. Roscommon Telephone:

071 9635434 For all your up to date car servicing & repairs All diagnostics carried out Pre-Nct Checks

Drumderrig Nursing Home Boyle Phone: 071 - 9662561

Paula and Michael Cull, proprietors of Drumderrig House Nursing Home together with Cathy Weston, Director of Nursing would like to wish all our residents and their families, our staff, our local doctors, pharmacists, clergy, physio, podiatrist, suppliers and friends a very Happy Christmas and good health for 2016

< VALERIE BYRNE

In 2015, and as ever, we had our annual St Patrick’s Day Parade in Elphin, an event which attracted large crowds to view the colourful floats and support local businesses. The 2015 County Fleadh Ceoil was held in Elphin again this year and it proved to be a resounding success and we are hopeful that we might host it again in 2016. Elphin Co-operative Livestock Mart is a very busy place and is a big employer in the area and continues to develop, with the completion of a magnificent new ring, which was officially opened at the recent Charolais Christmas Cracker. The Elphin Show is a wonderful day out, which is held on the Mart grounds and attracts very large crowds. It is the day where people get the opportunity to view all the magnificent livestock and all the local produce and stalls and it caters for all ages, young and old. The day is rounded off with the

Show Dance and the selection of the Rose of Elphin. Our windmill is a fully restored, working, 18th century windmill. It is the oldest of its kind in the country and is perfectly located to harness the winds sweeping over the plains of Elphin. Unusual features include its thatched revolving roof and four sails that are turned into the wind by using a tailpole attached to a cartwheel on a circular track. The windmill is open every day and the committee hope to extend those hours in 2016, with further support from Fás. The Youth Café caters for 12 to 15-year-olds, where they can come and meet with their friends and enjoy the facilities. 2015 has been a very good and busy year for the clients of Elphin Day Centre. We went on numerous outings and had the usual parties and Masses at the centre. We did lots of classes, including arts and crafts. We also run exercise classes and social dancing. Our numbers grew, both in terms of people coming

into our centre and our meals-on-wheels service, which is run by volunteers for Elphin and surrounding areas. We had a visit from TV3 and made an appearance on their morning show, Ireland AM. We visited Áras an Uachtaráin in July and had a visit to the newly-refurbished Cathedral in Longford. We also had our annual trip to Knock in September. We will finish off our

year with our Christmas Mass and party in the centre on Thursday, December 17, and wish all our clients and staff a happy and healthy Christmas and look forward to seeing them all in the New Year. The Dear Old Elphin Festival weekend on August Bank Holiday attracted large crowds to the town for the weekend. Open-air dancing, recreation of rural crafts, a traditional market day,

hay-making, bread-making and butter-making brought back memories of times past and the céilí in the kitchen attracted great attention. On the literary side of things, we had the launch of ‘Dancing in Elphin’ and lots of entries for our poetry and short story competitions. * Valerie Byrne is an Independent county councillor and community activist

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from North Roscommon

Carrick-on-Shannon thriving despite departure of MBNA < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Despite the complete departure of Bank of America/MBNA, Carrickon-Shannon is continuing to thrive. It is generally agreed that the arrival of the company to the Leitrim county town in the early 2000s was central to its remarkable subsequent growth. Retail parks were developed. Major chain stores, such as Lidl, Aldi, and Tesco, arrived. There are three booming hotels – Cryan’s, the Landmark and the Bush – which are regularly full to capacity. Suddenly, Carrick-onShannon’s nightlife grew exponentially, so much so that it is now regarded as one of the main hen and stag towns in Ireland. Not so long ago, Carrick was a far less bustling town than Boyle, just ten miles away. How times have changed. At its height about

six/seven years ago, the Bank of Ireland/MBNA call centre employed up to 1,300 people. But it reduced its workforce gradually in recent years, and closed the centre completely in November 2014. However, it has had a negligible impact on the economy of the town it has been claimed. “It hasn’t impacted on the town,” said Colm McGrath, the President of Carrick-on-Shannon Chamber of Commerce. “People travelled from Sligo, Cavan and Longford to work there, and then commuted back home. And they stayed within the MBNA offices for lunch and dinner because there was a highly subsidised canteen there. “So they didn’t really come out and spend money in the local cafés or restaurants. “It (the closure) didn’t have the negative impact that people throught it

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OPEN Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 5pm to 9pm would have. Also, it was wound down in a very orderly fashion.” The hen and stag trade has created many jobs in the town, with day-time entertainment amenities – such as kart-racing, quad-biking and paintballshooting plants – opening in the vicinity of the town. “Carrick is very much thriving and the night-time trade at the weekend is doing exceptionally well compared to other towns,” said Mr McGrath. Opinion is divided in the town about how much of

an impact the stag and hen parties have on the lives of residents. However, for the first time, in September, Carrick achieved the prestigious Purple Flag status for its evening and night-time economy. Towns are awarded these for providing a vibrant mix of entertainment while promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and local residents. Carrick has radically increased its standing in the National Tidy Towns

Kinamara Stud recently held a charity event for hospice and multiple sclerosis care, putting on display their crop of 2015 foals, with their dams. It proved a huge success, with over €4,000 collected, which was divided equally between the two charities. It attracted a huge crowd on the day, and enjoyment was had by all. The Sharkey International Showjumping Team put on a great display of showjumping. Padraig Gilligan was chief chef, with burgers, tea and sandwiches available. The raffle was well supported, with sponsored prizes from suppliers and friends, who the organisers were grateful to. Kinamara Stud intend to make this an annual event and an even bigger show is in the planning for 2016.

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Competition in recent years: the judges noted that it was “in splendid condition” when they assessed it in 2015. Despite so many chain stores coming on stream recently, Carrick still has a busy town centre, with some long-established businesses. “There is a lot of retail in the town that isn’t thriving yet, but has survived throughout the downturn,” said Mr. McGrath, whose own business, Brady Insurance, is located on Main Street.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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Christmas greetings from Creggs, Glinsk and Williamstown B

usinesses in Creggs, Glinsk and Williamstown are this week extending a very Happy Christmas and wishes for a prosperous New Year to everyone in their locality. Everyone in these areas is looking forward to a busy festive period and, when the shopping and last-minute panicking is over, to the opportunity to spend time with family and friends at this very special time of year. Here at the Roscommon People we wish to thank businesses and readers in Creggs, Glinsk and Williamstown for their support during 2015 and we look forward to working closely with you all in the New Year. We urge readers in these areas to support local busineses over the festive period and we wish all our readers in Creggs, Glinsk and Williamstown a very Happy Christmas and peaceful and prosperous New Year.

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Pictured at the 2015 Creggs Harvest Festival were Bina Harris, Pat Carter and Olivia Smyth. The Christmas cake and snowman were raffled to raise money for Creggs Tidy Towns and Creggs Karate Club. Picture: Andrew Fox

Williamstown Tidy Towns success story continues! < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Williamstown secured its highest ever points tally in the National Tidy Towns Competition this year – and now they have their sights set on becoming the top town in Co. Galway. This year, they finished fifth in the county, with 293 points, in a highly competitive contest. Milltown was the county’s top town, with 312 points, followed by Abbey (near Loughrea, 310), Monivea (309) and Clarinbridge (298). Williamstown’s result was the product of the industry of their ten volunteers, who are ably assisted by students from Williamstown National School, along with the principal,

James Coyne. The chairman of Williamstown Tidy Towns Committee, Noel Finnegan, said: “We are doing very well and we are delighted we are doing so well. We love it. “Our aim is to get first in Co. Galway at some stage, but it will be very difficult. The likes of Milltown are nearly 20 points above us, which is an awful lot. “A lot of places that are doing very well, they have either a castle or a river going through their village.” The committee meets on a monthly basis, even at this time of the year. Some plants are being sown for the summer, along with trees and shrubs.

They also seek to educate the public about wildlife and biodiversity. “It is not just picking up litter now and keeping the streets clean,” said Noel. “You have to respect the wildlife around the area and show that there are birds nesting and to appreciate that. “For butterflies, we put down particular type of plants that will be able to thrive in the summertime” he added. Another feature the committee have developed is an old bog road. This runs from the back of St Mary’s Church to the BallymoeCastlerea Road. There is some very nice signage advertising the route around the town.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Glinsk/Creggs/Williamstown

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On a Sunday before Christmas, just as Storm Desmond was raging, Santa Claus made his way to Caisleán Óir at Glinsk Community Centre. This year has seen a lot of change and many improvements at Glinsk Community Childcare, thanks to the local community, Galway County Council and An Pobal’s early years Capital grant. The centre has been fully repainted outside and in and the outdoor playground has been extended and improved to better socially include children of all ages and abilities. All areas requiring general maintenance have been tended to and we celebrated the improvements by hosting a free Family Fun and Open Day this summer, with free ice creams and bouncy castles. The 2015-16 term opened with the expansion of our preschool Montessori classrooms to facilitate the two-year cycle of Montessori and places quickly filled for the year. Glinsk National School celebrated a great start to the year when it was awarded the Digital School of Distinction Award and the school also received a facelift during the year. The school presented a very successful school concert, with lots of angels

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and elves just before Christmas! The local Glinsk GAA Club and Glinsk Ladies’ Football Club look back on another successful year, while local groups such as Glinsk Community Development and Glinsk Community Alert and Glinsk Defibrillator group have been given a new lease of life with new officers coming on board to steer their ships over the coming years. The past year will probably be most remembered at Glinsk as the year when local people took important steps in the corridors of power!

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, who is very proud of his Glinsk roots, has been instrumental in putting the needs of rural Ireland on the national agenda while Cllr. Des Joyce has been serving the local community on Galway County Council. In addition to that, James Shevlin was elected as the national president of the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association, so, all in all, it has been a busy year in Glinsk and all is looking good for 2016!

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Christmas greetings from Glinsk/Creggs/Williamstown

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Join the 21st annual Barrie Harris Walk on St Stephen’s Day < EOGHAN YOUNGMURPHY

The 21st annual Barrie Harris Walk will take place at Creggs on St Stephen’s Day, starting at 12.30 pm – and it promises to be an ideal way to shake off the cobwebs after any overindulgence the previous day! In 1995, Barrie, who was aged 57, tragically died in a traffic accident. A popular mechanic at Creggs, his premature death deeply saddened the community. Later that year, his widow, Bina, held the first sponsored walk in his memory. The event has been a permanent feature on December 26 since then, and over €300,000 has been raised for a variety of local charities. The proceeds of this year’s event will be divided between 15 charities. The event will start from O’Roarke’s Bar before taking in a scenic

countryside route around Mount Mary. A popular feature of the Walk is that, midway

through, beautiful refreshments are served at Mary Devaney’s ‘halfway house’ at Fri-

aryland. Anyone interested in joining the Walk can collect sponsorship cards

from local outlets at Creggs, or by contacting Olivia Harris on 0863719917.

Pictured at the launch of the 2015 Barrie Harris Walk were back row (l-r) Mickey Maloney, Michael O’Rourke, Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice and Richard Smyth. Front row (l-r) Olivia Smyth, Bina Harris and Lorraine Conlon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Glencastle Lounge Glinsk ● Telephone: 094 9655297 SATURDAY 19th DECEMBER

Launch of Glinsk GAA History Book By Jim Kearney at 9pm Compiled by Laurence Cunningham All are welcome. Refreshments served on the night SUNDAY 27th DECEMBER

Glinsk GAA Annual Christmas Quiz FRIDAY 1st JANUARY

BALLINACURRY BALL ALLEY SOCIAL Music by Celtic Crú Door prizes, spot prizes Great night guaranteed Admission €5 Tom, Dolores, family and staff wish all our customers and friends a very Happy Christmas and a Bright and Prosperous New Year

Williamstown Christmas magazine now in shops! < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The annual Williamstown Christmas Magazine, Off the Record, has just hit the shelves, and is filled with fascinating stories, news and features that are associated with the town. The magazine is published by Williamstown Development Company and edited by Michael Jennings. One of the exciting additions to the town during 2015 was a two-mile looped walk, which is off-road, around its outskirts. The route, called the Bog Road Walk, was officially opened on June 27 by Maura Blighe, a land owner. This historic event is documented in the magazine. On the brink of the centenary of the 1916 Rising, numerous contributors write about historical events. Ann Marie Crehan writes an article about her granduncle Michael Kenny, who died in the final week of World War I, in 1918. The Williamstown Glenamaddy Ladies’ Football team had a wonderful year, winning the Connacht Intermediate Football Championships, and their exploits are covered extensively

in the magazine. Other sporting stars include Pat and Ollie Conway, who won an All-Ireland Intermediate title for Williamstown Handball Club, and mechanic Walter Burke, who won the National Autocross Loose Surface Championship. Away from the sporting sphere, there is a feature on the Williamstown Heritage Society’s ongoing restoration project at Templetogher Mill. At present, they are restoring the miller’s house. Incidentally, prior to her death on April 28, Agnes Lennon, of the Derryvode townland, was the last living person who once resided at the mill. There is a feature on her in the magazine because she celebrated her 100th birthday the month before her death. The pupils of Williamstown National School made various contributions to the publication, writing poems and stories, etc. The magazine is for sale at local outlets in Williamstown or from the Williamstown Development Company office, which is located at the rear of the Parish Hall. It’s priced at €6. Williamstown Development

Maura Blighe, a land owner, at the official opening on the extension of Bog Road Walk on June 27, which is featured in the magazine.

Company would like to thank all of the local businesses who advertised in the magazine.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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Clonown farmer loses €7,500 worth of fodder < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Extreme flooding of swathes of land in Co. Roscommon has caused a “crisis” for farmers, with one farmer having €7,500 worth of fod-

der destroyed. Thousands of acres are submerged in water. The Roscommon chairman of the Irish Farmers’ Association, John Hanley, said that Clonown, south Roscommon, was worst-hit, but that Cootehall, Arigna and Keadue in the north of

the county were also in trouble. “It’s a crisis – that’s what it is,” said Mr Hanley, noting that farmers had also been severely affected in the 2009 flood. This is the second socalled 100-year flood in six years.”

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flood had resulted in a “very significant cost to farmers”. “There is a substantial amount of fodder between here and Shannonbridge that has been damaged by flooding,” he said. “There is a lot of land under water that normally might be grazing sheep at this time, and that is not available either.” Mr Hanley was scathingly critical of the Government’s response to the “crisis”, in particular Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney. “He has two briefs: defence and agriculture,” he said. “And I think it is about time that he started defending the farmers. He hasn’t once mentioned agriculture in any of his statements. “As Minister for Agriculture, he should make sure there is a fodder fund and crisis fund available for farmers that are affected by the floods.”

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He said that animal welfare was the main problem for farmers at the moment, but that other aspects were also hit. “It is the fodder that is under water as well,” he said. “There is one particular farmer in Clonown and he has 250 bales of hay in a shed and there for four foot of water around it. They are gone – finished.” Each bale would be worth roughly €30. “Another major issue is tanks and sheds that are flooded with water, and farmers moving stock to other ground,” said Mr Hanley. He also said that many people had significant amounts of fuel, such as turf, destroyed after their sheds had become submerged. Local councillor Laurence Fallon, a farmer based at Rahara in south Roscommon, agreed that things looked very bleak. He said that the

Roscommon Mart Report Friday December 11th: There was a large entry of quality stock on offer at last Friday’s sale. There was an excellent trade for bullocks with prices improved from the previous week. There was a very strong trade for heifers with a very high percentage of lots sold. There were better numbers of dry cows on offer with improved prices. Dry cows made from €800 to €1530 per head. Sample prices: Lim X 860 kgs €1530, Char X 820 kgs €1455, AAX 700 kgs €1400, BBX 690 kgs €1220, Lim X 650 kgs €1100, Char X 725 kgs €1245, HEX 655 kgs €975, AAX 675 kgs €1040, BBX 570 kgs €1100. Heifers made from €495 to €1135 over. Sample prices: Lim X 545 kgs €1680, Lim 575 kgs €1660, Lim X 490, Char X 485 kgs €1340, AAX 510 kgs €1250, Char X 460 kgs €1220, AA 510 kgs €1250, 3 Char X 486 kgs €1200,Char X 440 kgs €1180, Lim X 440 kgs €1165, Lim X 500 kgs €1285, Char X 660 kgs €1575. Bullocks made from €485 to €950 over. Sample prices: Char X 985 kgs €1800, Char X 700 kgs €1600, Char X 560 kgs €1460, 5 Lim X 612 kgs €1450, 2 Lim X 587 kgs €1380, AAX 570 kgs €1375, Char X 530 kgs €1340, Lim X 450 kgs €1290, Char X 440 kgs €1220, Lim X 445 kgs €1225, 2 Char X 425 kgs €1200, Simm X 495 kgs €1100, Char X 380 kgs €1105. Tuesday, December 15th: There was a good entry of stock on offer at the last weanling sale of the year. There was a lively trade for weanling heifers with prices improved from the previous week with average prices ranging from 2.65 per kilo up to €3.29 per kilo. The trade for weanling bulls was a little

easier. Prices ranged from €2.40 up to a maximum of €3.53 per kilo. Weanling heifers made from €390 to €675. Sample prices: Lim X 325 kgs €1000, BBX 315 kgs €960, Char X 385 kgs €955, 2 Lim X 365 kgs €930, BAX 290 kgs €905, Lim X 260 kgs €805, AAX 255 kgs €700, Lim x 255 kgs €685, Simm X 335 kgs €830. Weanling bulls made from €395 to €660 over. Sample prices: Lim X 455 kgs €1095, Char 340 kgs €1000, Char 275 kgs €970, Simm X 350 kgs €800, Lim X 290 kgs €740, Char X 320 kgs €850, Char X 290 kgs €850. Char X 290 kgs €950. Sheep sale: There were good numbers on offer again this week. There was a strong trade for lambs with improved prices. There was an easier trade for cast ewes. The special entry of hoggets made from €160 to €190. No further sheep sales until Wednesday January 6th 2016. Sample prices: Ewe lambs: 52. Kgs €116, 50 kgs €111.50, 45.30 kgs €102.50 46.30 kgs €105.50, 45.16 kgs €110. Mixed lambs: 49.62 kgs €108,55.57 kgs €115.50 49.60 kgs €113, 54.10 kgs €114.50, 7.10 kgs €108, 44.30 kgs €104, 36 kgs €81 51.40 kgs €115.50. Wether lambs: 52 kgs €113.50, 50 kgs €112, 50.50 kgs €112.50. Ram lambs: 52.50 kgs €114, 45.50 kgs €103. Cast ewes made from €68 to €123 per lot. Wishing all our customers a very happy, healthy and peaceful Christmas. Thank you for your custom during 2015 and we look forward to your continued support in the coming year.

“In some cases farmers have been forced to move cattle because sheds are flooded. Significant quantities of fodder have been severely damaged. The normal movement between farms has also been disrupted, with roads cut off.” He said a lot of these farmers are also waiting for their payments from the Department of Agriculture for up to three months at this point, which is unacceptable. John Hanley has called on the Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney to immediately issue all outstanding payments to the farmers in these areas as they try to cope with the huge financial impact of the flooding on their farms. Following a meeting between the Minister for Agriculture and IFA earlier this week, Mr Hanley acknowledged the flexibility provided in relation to overflowing tanks and the movement of animals on welfare grounds to assist farmers in this crisis situation. The Minister also assured the IFA delegation that no cross compliance checks would take place in the affected areas. John Hanley said the destruction caused by this latest flooding underlines the case for a centralised approach to flood prevention to avoid inflicting more hardship on communities.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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“RADHARC NA MUILLEANN”, KNOCK, LANESBORO, CO. LONGFORD Pictured at IPAV’s Charity Lunch held at the Westbury Hotel, Dublin on Friday (4th December) and which raised funds for the Temple Street Children’s Hospital were (l-r): Keith Anderson, Donegal, Seán Naughton, Roscommon and Ted Kehoe, Maynooth. Pic: Brian Dempsey

Pictured at the recent Annual Charity Lunch of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers & Values (IPAV) which was held in the Westbury Hotel, Dublin were Roscommon auctioneer Sean Naughton with IPAV President Eamon O’Flaherty and RTE racing commentator Brian Gleeson who was MC for the event. This year’s lunch was in aid of Temple Street Children’s Hospital.

Prime garage property to let at Earley’s David Diffley, MIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering new to the market a prime garage property of c. 4,700 sq. ft. to let at the Lanesboro Road, Roscommon town. This property offers a spacious show room together with administration and sales office, toilets, and ample workshop area serviced by 3 electric roller doors. There is a spacious and secure compound servicing the property to the rear and same also benefits from extensive car parking and advertising facilities to the front of same. This is a prime location on the edge of Roscommon town for which the auctioneer invites viewing and offers. Lease terms are negotiable. For further details or to arrange

Prices from €45,000 - €75,000 (selling as they stand). Quality semi-detached and detached residences located in this attractive development. The site is presently being finished to a high standard to include landscaping, finished roads, footpaths, services etc. The properties are currently at builder’s finish condition throughout and are selling as they stand. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and enquiries. BER: C2 – E2. ----------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

Lanesboro Road, Roscommon town.

a viewing, please contact John Earley, FIPAV or David Diff-

ley, MIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square,

Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email. jearley@propertypartners.

A PRIMELY LOCATED ROADSIDE 4 B/R RESIDENTIAL 7 DAY LICENSED PREMISES OF C. 2,180 SQ.FT STANDING ON C. 1 ACRE LOCATED AT

●

PROPERTY SALES ● LETTINGS ● VALUATIONS

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

www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

NEW TO THE MARKET LISNAGIRRA, ATHLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON PRIME LIMESTONE LANDS c. 23 ACRES WITH

FULL PLANNING PERMISSION FOR QUARRY • Full planning permission for extraction of Limestone Bedrock and processing of rock using crushing and screening plant into select graded aggregates and all other ancillary site works

Prime Fourmilehouse lands available at Earley’s John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering to the market a prime parcel of roadside lands containing c. 14.26 acres located at Kinnity, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as “a roadside parcel of lands located in the renowned farming district of Kinnity. “The 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.” To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

• Prime elevated lands comprising c. 23 acres renowned Limestone Land

KILCOOLEY, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

“SIMPSONS”

(ON THE MAIN N5 WESTERN ROUTE BETWEEN TULSK & STROKESTOWN)

A substantial, self-advertising and well known roadside trading house known as “Simpson’s” located on the main N5 western route between Strokestown and Tulsk villages. The said property offers a character former shop area of c. 200 sq.ft, a bar area of c. 190 sq.ft, store rooms, and with ladies and gents toilets servicing. The said property is serviced by a large site area on which stands a former one storey residence of c. 700 sq.ft (now used for storage), a character stone lofted storage barn of c. 1,000 sq.ft with lean tos storage shed off, and a 2 bay hay shed. Viewing comes highly recommended by the Auctioneers and all offers are invited to sell. BER: D1. LEGAL: MARIE CONNELLAN, MESSERS PA CONNELLAN & CO, STROKESTOWN. TEL. 071 96 33099. ----------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

A PRIME HOLDING OF LANDS CONTAINING C. 13.93 ACRES ON WHICH STANDS A 3 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE (in need of renovation)

MANOR, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON.

LOCATED AT

• Located convenient to Athlone, Galway and Roscommon

(being the estate of the late Sean Connor deceased)

• Only 14 miles from M6 Galway – Dublin Motorway • Holding huge potential due to size, planning and location • For all maps and planning pack contact Sole Selling Agent Connaughton Auctioneers 090 6663700 • Enquiries and offers invited

THINKING OF SELLING? CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE VALUATION ON 090 66 63700

OUR SALES FEE WILL NOT BE BEATEN!

c. 14.26 acres located at Kinnity, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon.

A highly attractive holding of excellent quality roadside agricultural lands located in a select farming district convenient to the Roscommon/Tulsk route at Clashaganny. The said residence is in need of renovation throughout but would be a most rewarding project due to location. The said residence and lands can be sold independently should market interest dictate. BER: G. LEGAL: CONLETH HARLOW SOLICITOR, ST ALBANS, THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON. TEL. 090 66 25939.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Weekend

PEOPLE

SOCIAL PEOPLE:

See pages 62 and 63

Solstice Choir and friends in concert in Knockcroghery On this Friday, 18th December 2015, Roscommon Solstice Choir will perform a Christmas Concert in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery in aid of Lecarrow Benevolent Fund. Guest artists include Des Willoughby of The Willoughby Brothers, the

fabulous new Roscommon singing sensation Emerald Storm and a combined choir of eighty children from the local parish schools. This musical extravaganza will commence at 8 pm (doors open 7.30 pm). Tickets are only €10 and are available locally

in Lecarrow, from any Lecarrow Benevolent Fund Committee member or by calling 086 3480378 or 087 1269982. Surplus tickets may be available at the door but please be aware that places are limited. A great cause and a night not to be missed!

Pictured in P. Kelly’s in Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Ursula Kelly and Karen Ridge. Picture: Andrew Fox

Castlerea Musical Society present ‘Winter Wonderland’ this Friday

Pictured in P. Kelly’s in Roscommon town on Saturday night last were Melissa Kelly and Sarah Louise Nolan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Castlerea Musical Society will present a mix of traditional and modern Christmas carols at a fundraising concert this Friday night, December 18th. ‘Winter Wonderland’ will take place in the Trinity Arts Centre in Castlerea at 8 pm. Rehearsals have been taking place for many weeks under the watchful eye of the AIMS award nominated, Shane Farrell. Members of the ladies and men’s chorus will perform classics such as the beautiful Ukranian carol The Carol Bells and many more familiar traditional carols such as Adeste Fideles. They will be joined by senior members of the Castlerea Youth

Stage School for the calming Christmas hymn When a Child is Born. Soloists will raise the roof with hymns such as ‘Oh Holy Night’. We are delighted also to be joined by ballerinas from our choreographer Patricia McDermot’s School of Dance. Tickets are €10 and are available at the door the night. Raffle tickets will also be on sale for our Christmas Draw which will take place on the night. Prizes include a monster hamper and cash amounts. All proceeds will go towards the staging of our 2016 show Guys and Dolls. Thanks to all our supporters and Merry Christmas to all.

Christmas at Castlecoote Lodge Castlecoote Lodge Bar and Lounge will be celebrating its third Christmas since opening in July 2013 with a ‘Gala Christmas Irish Trad Night’ celebration on Friday, 18th December at 10 pm. The Irish Trad Night at Castlecoote Lodge Bar and Lounge has been featured on the RTE 1 Nationwide programme and the artists featuring are renowned talented musicians, dancers, singers and also invited guest artists who are always very welcome. On Saturday night, December 19th, Castlecoote Tidy Towns Christmas hamper draw which is confined to Castlecoote Lodge customers and friends will take place. There is a beautiful hamper and runner-up prizes up for grabs during a great reception for one and all. The popular darts competition is held every Friday night in the bar and on Friday night (18th) we are holding a Christmas darts competition. On Sunday (20th December) Terry will be on hand from 12.30 pm so why not call in for a Christmas chat. On Wednesday (23rd) Castlecoote Lodge holds a 25 Card Drive with great prizes up for grabs. Everyone is welcome to enjoy Christmas 2015 at Castlecoote Lodge Bar, replica Dáil & Seanad Lounge where you are guaranteed the best drink, conversation and ceol agus craic.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS Wishing all our customers a Very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year

JJ HARLOWS

Carthy’s

- Market Square, Roscommon -

Porterhouse & Guest Accommodation

Telephone: 090 6626225

Friday 18th December:

Thursday 17th

Deckie Walsh

FOLK CLUB

Saturday 19th December:

The Honky Tonks

Featuring Mike Banahan with Brendan Emmett

Wednesday 23rd December:

Toxic Twins

St. Stephen’s Night:

Deckie Walsh

Sunday, 27th December: In the back Bar

The Sensational

Edge Addiction Music from 10-12 No cover charge

Pictured at a Comhaltas Session in Bear an Raille, Roscommon on Sunday last were Maureen and Ken Fahey. Picture: Andrew Fox

Monday 28th December:

Hamrock’s

John Shannon

Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325

Tuesday 29th December:

Billy Garvin

Saturday, 19th December:

Billy Corcoran

New Year’s Eve:

The Jump Tones

Carthy’s Porterhouse, function room available for all types of meetings, classes, parties etc... - CONTACT PAUL ON 087 2895986 OR 090 6626459

ABBEY HOTEL ROSCOMMON Presents

T O M K E L LY P RO M O T I O N S P R E S E N T S

A Celebration of the Life and Music of

JIM REEVES STARRING

AL GRANT ISLA GRANT

WITH VERY SPECIAL GUEST

FEATURES UNIQUE JIM REEVES AUDIO/VISUAL EXPERIENCE

Welcome to My World I Love You Because He’ll Have to Go Adios Amigo Distant Drums You Are The Only Good Thing I Won’t Forget You It Hurts So Much Moonlight & Roses Danny Boy Bimbo

Sunday, February 7th at 8pm

Sunday, March 6th at 8pm

JOHNNY McEVOY in Concert

Tickets for both Concerts at Hotel Reception ct - telephone (090) 6626240 Perfe ift as G m t s and Ticketmaster.ie i Chr

Every Thursday 9pm - 11pm Friday 18th

The Square House Social Acts TBA

Saturday 19th:

Blues session with

Entertainment Strange at JJ’s Brew This week at JJ’s, Thursday night is Folk Club night with Mike Banahan and Brendan Emmett. This wonderful night of music has been running since last spring and has played host to performances from some very talented musicians and singers. Mike says “We’ve had a great time every Thursday evening, it’s a song-filled session and it’s a wonderful place to be midweek.” The Folk Club is going down well with audiences so get down to JJ’s tonight (Thursday, 17th December) and every Thursday and listen to top class music from local artists right on your doorstep. Also this week, Strange Brew will perform in JJ’s on Saturday night (19th December) while Patricia Lane and Anthony McDermott will be in the middle bar from 6 pm on Sunday evening (20th December). This is sure to be a great weekend of entertainment so get down and grab a craft beer from our extensive range while enjoying some top class music.

- 6 pm in Middle Bar

Sunday 20th:

Patricia Lane with Anthony McDermott - 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

BEER OF THE WEEK! St Mel’s Pale ale , Longford Hopped three times during the boil and then dry hopped using cascade hops this session Pale Ale has aromas of citrus fruits and pine resin, the fine bitterness is balanced by just the right amount of caramel like sweetness from the crystal malts in the grist.

JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS cinema & leisure complex Unit 10 Centre Point Retail Park Roscommon KIDS MOVIE CLUB (KMC) Adult & Kids Tickets ONLY €3 each For All Enquiries Tel: 090-6665333 facebook/ C & L plex

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

NEW

RELEASE FRIDAY

18th

Week Commencing Friday 18th—Thursday 24th

Movie Times

A CHRISTMAS STAR (G)

12:30 (KMC); 14:30

BROOKLYN (12A)

16:10; 21:10

CHRISTMAS WITH THE COOPERS (12A)

16:30; 18:50

FROZEN SING ALONG (RE-RELEASE) (G)

12:20 (KMC); 14:35

KRAMPUS (15A)

16:50; 19:00; 21:10

SISTERS (15A)

16:00; 18:40; 21:20

STAR WARS:THE FORCE AWAKENS 2D (12A)

13:20; 15:50; 18:30; 21:10

STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS 3D (12A)

18:30; 21:20

THE GOOD DINOSAUR (2D)

11:30 (KMC); 13:45

minnows

CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS Christmas Eve: 10:00 to 19:00 Christmas Day: CLOSED St. Stephens Day: CLOSED Sunday 27th OPEN Business As Usual We would like to wish all our customers a Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year THE C&L PLEX TEAM

THE SNOW QUEEN 2: MAGIC OF THE ICE MIRROR (G) 12:00 (KMC); 13:55

Earley’s

Beár An Ráille The Railway Bar

Bar & Lounge BUSHFIELD, CASTLEPLUNKETT

Abbeytown, Roscommon 0906630748 find us on facebook

Telephone: 087 2473775

Christmas Entertainment

Friday 18th December -

25 Card Game for Christmas Hamper

Saturday, 19th December - Music

St. Simeon & The Stylites (4 Piece Band) ** Monday, 21st December A Taste Of Abbeytown This is an evening where the businesses in

Abbeytown are handing out complimentary items such as savoury snacks from Londis, sweet bites from Molloy’s Artisan Bakers & Hot Mulled Wine from Beár An Ráille - The Railway Bar. From 5.30 - 7.30 Tuesday, 22nd December -

Saturday 19th December -

Music by the very special & talented

Adrian Martin Murphy Pictured at a Comhaltas Session in Bear an Raille on Sunday last were Peter Savage, Ann O’Brien, Amy Moore and Lex Belmour. Picture: Andrew Fox

(2 Piece band)

Appearing again St. Stephen’s Night (Saturday 26th) All welcome

Christmas Draw 2015 Top Prize €500 Hamper Wednesday, 23rd December - Music

Simply Us (2 Piece Band) Saturday, 26th December - Music Seamus Duke DJ Saturday 27th December -

Blue’s Confidential (3 Piece Band) Wishing you all the joy, hope and wonder of Christmas from everyone here in Beár an Ráille

The Square, Roscommon Tel.: 090 6665640

Saturday 19th December: Music by

Celtic Crú

Sunday 20th December: Music by

Rambling Bob Wednesday 23rd December: Music by

RIGHT: Pictured at a Comhaltas Session in Bear an Raille, Roscommon on Sunday last were Tom Costello and Tom Sharkey. Picture: Andrew Fox

Duck + Kevin

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

Pictured are Tommy and Vilija Hamilton in Spells Bar recently.

Pictured are Kayleigh Scanlon and Michaela Frain in Spells Bar recently. Pictured are Eugene, Sinead, Fergus, Pauline and Paula Frain in Spells Bar recently.

t u o b A & Out Photographs: Mick

McCormack

Spell’s Bar Ballaghaderreen

Pictured are Sean Davern, Josh Regan and Michael Gallagher in Spells Bar recently.

Pictured are Helen and Mark Davern and Eoin Madden in Spells Bar recently.

Pictured are Mary and Seamus Sharkey with Fergus Frain in Spells Bar recently.

Pictured are Brendan Garvey, Eugene Frain, Sean Davern and Erik Nielsen in Spells Bar recently.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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

Pictured in P. Kelly’s on Saturday night last were Denise, Vincent and Ellen Muldoon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in P. Kelly’s (Roscommon) on Saturday night last were Bridget Cunningham, Helen Rice, Aisling Jones and Catriona Malone. Picture: Andrew Fox

t u o b A & t Ou Photographs: Andrew

Fox

Pat Kelly’s Roscommon town

Pictured in P. Kelly’s on Saturday night last were David and Orla Keegan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in P. Kelly’s on Saturday night last were Mossy Connaughton, Cathal Brennan and Tom Bannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in P. Kelly’s on Saturday night last were Ursula Kelly, Melissa Kelly and Rachel Gordon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in P. Kelly’s on Saturday night last were Siobhán and Martin Murray and Liz Curley. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in P. Kelly’s on Saturday night last were Keith Waldron and Andrea Crean. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

NewsPeople ––––––––––– Advertorial –––––––––––

Call to Sonas Beauty for Youngblood, Evelyn & Crabtree Sonas Beauty Salon in Patrick Street, Castlerea is delighted to be stockists of the fabulous Crabtree & Evelyn and Youngblood mineral make-up. Crabtree & Evelyn is famed for its original luxurious fragrant products. From the beautiful upscale collection of hand creams to sumptuous body lotions your skin will be hydrated and repaired to reveal radiant new skin beneath. Award-winning Youngblood mineral make-up was created by cosmetic surgeon Pauline Youngblood. It is a premier mineral make-up. It is so gentle it can be used right after waxing, electrolysis and is a must for acne suffers. While providing flawless coverage it still allows your skin to breathe. Including a wide make up range from lipgloss to foundation with beautiful pigments to suit all skin tones and long lasting coverage, Youngblood mineral make up along with Crabtree & Evelyn make beautiful gifts or welldeserved treats. Customised gift sets available in salon with prices starting from only €7. Call us on 094 9620609.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION A Mother’s Greeting On this last Sunday before Christmas, the Church’s Liturgy reveals the true identity of our Redeemer: He is, as today’s First Reading says, the “ruler...whose origin is from...ancient times.” He will come from Bethlehem, where David was born of Jesse the Ephrathite and anointed king (see Ruth 4:11-17; 1 Samuel 16:113; 17:1; Matthew 2:6). God promised that an heir of David would reign on his throne forever (see 2 Samuel 7:12-13; Psalm 89; Psalm 132:11-12). Jesus is that heir, the One the prophets promised would restore the scattered tribes of Israel into a new kingdom (see Isaiah 9:5-6; Ezekiel 34:23-25,30; 37:35). He is “the shepherd of Israel,” sung of in today’s Psalm. From His throne in heaven, He has “come to save us.” Today’s Epistle tells us that He is both the Son of David and the only “begotten” Son of God, come “in the flesh” (see also Psalm 2:7). He is also our “high priest,” from the mold of the mysterious Melchisedek, “priest of God Most High,” who blessed Abraham at the dawn of salvation history (see Psalm 110:4; Genesis 14:18-20). All this is recognised by John when he leaps for joy in his mother’s womb. Elizabeth, too, is filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. She recognises that in Mary “the mother of my Lord” has come to her. We hear in her words another echo of the Psalm quoted in today’s Epistle (see Psalm 2:7). Elizabeth blesses Mary for her faith that God’s Word would be fulfilled in her. Mary marks the fulfillment not only of the angel’s promise to her, but of all God’s promises down through history. Mary is the one they await in today’s First Reading – “she who is to give birth.” She will give birth this week, at Christmas. And the fruit of her womb should bring us joy – she is the mother of our Lord. – Dr. Scott Hahn, www.salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Parish Office/Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon)

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

Floods and ﬁghting: a tale of the heroic and ‘The Notorious’ There are times when you – or at least I – would struggle to make sense of this thing that we call life, and occasionally it’s very hard to understand how and why the cards are dealt the way they are. I am writing this on a very wet, miserable Monday morning (are there any other kind, says you). Going through the morning papers and listening to the news on the local and national radio stations, it’s hard to equate the emotions that different Irish people are feeling all round the country as they face into the Christmas countdown. On one hand we have the amazing Conor McGregor story, a man who in the early hours of Sunday morning, in the MGM in Las Vegas, became arguably one of the greatest Irish sportstars of all time, with his 13-second destruction of previously unbeaten 10-year-world UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo – and in the process set himself on the way to becoming a sporting billionaire. When you consider, that only a week or so before, another (more or less) Irishman, Tyson Fury, was also becoming a world champion – this time in heavyweight boxing and also opening the door to unimaginable riches – it’s been an extraordinary couple of weeks for Irish sport. And, lest you think I am in any way begrudging of these successes, I most certainly am not and I rejoice, as any Irish person would, in their achievements. On the other hand however (I know it took me long enough to get to it) on Saturday night all over the country we had whole communities, hundreds, maybe thousands, of people working all through the night trying, in some cases in vain, to keep raging floodwaters out of their homes and businesses. Now of course it wasn’t only last Saturday night that those efforts were going on. For a full week we have seen all these communities pulling together, helping each other and bringing us back to the days of the ‘meitheal’ – and yet despite their trojan and heroic efforts, many families will be forced out of their homes this Christmas and facing into very uncertain futures. On our own doorstep, the people of Athleague (this is my third time to write about Athleague in a couple of months) have been up against it trying to protect themselves and their homes and businesses – and there too we have seen an enormous community effort. So far they have managed to keep the floodwaters at bay. And yet a regular reader of this column reminded me this morning that, despite the apparent success of their effort, none of us realise how close Athleague (and many other such villages) came to actually closing down forever. Pubs, shops, restaurants, in fact all businesses, have lost out on a major portion of the Christmas trading period, and the reader in question and I yet again want to emphasise the importance of supporting local business. We will never know how much they mean to us all until they are gone. I am of course well aware of the bargains we can get in the Aldi and Lidls of this world – and in the present economic climate no one could be blamed for going to them. But, and I know I’ve said it before, save a bit

Shauna Bannon and Fiona McManus pictured in Ballintubber on Sunday last at the Boyle v Clann U-21 Final. Picture: Andrew Fox

for your local shopkeeper who, after all, is also your neighbour and friend. As for the people in Athleague, well done on such a Herculean, effort but also remember to help your village by supporting the many thriving businesses that you have there now – it’s up to you to keep them there! Going back to McGregor, and I make no secret of the fact that I have very little time for his actual sport, but I like McGregor and admire what he has done to get to where he is today, and he definitely has a number of fans in my house. I went to bed on Saturday night early enough (wasn’t out) and was sleeping the sleep of the just (and the sober) when an almighty roar nearly knocked me right out of the bed. I thought the roof must have caved in, but after a few confused moments (thank God I wasn’t drinking), I realised it was only Paul, my son, who was celebrating the stunning knockout blow and the extraordinary result. That was the end of my rest for that night, so while McGregor put Aldo to sleep, he ruined mine!

Return of The Corrs Changing subjects entirely, and you will know by now that I am a fan of Late Late host Ryan Tubridy, but normally not of the Late Late Show! However, last Friday night (I really had a quiet weekend), I thought he had one of his best shows of the year, and for a change, he had what we would call A-list guests, actors Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg, golfer Shane Lowry and Baz whatever his name is. (Editor: It’s Baz Ashmawy, admittedly not a common name in Creggs).

In their own way they were all interesting and entertaining, but for me it was the reemergence of The Corrs that made the night. Funny enough, I wasn’t their biggest fan when they were at their peak, although I certainly liked their music, but a recent interview with Jim, in which he was very open about his battle with financial institutions, along with his battle with the booze, made me interested in the family group and it was great to see them back together after a ten-year absence. What the future holds for them, or any of us, no one knows, but even in their short appearance on the Late Late it was easy to see how talented they are and I hope, this time around, they get the success they deserve and this time without the drama that obviously caused them problems in the past.

And ﬁnally… Finally for this week, I’m told the best ever Senior Citizens Party took place on Sunday last in our local parochial hall, when more than ninety of our parishioners were wined and dined and musically entertained, all at no expense to them. So a big well done and thank you to all the members of the hardworking committee who made it a day to remember. In case you’re wondering, I’m still ‘underage’, but I’m closing in on the day when I’m an official member, although, in fairness, age makes no difference when it comes to the organisers of the Christmas party. All are welcomed with open arms. ‘Till next week, Bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Classifieds

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

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

WEEKEND ON CALL EMERGENCY ROTA From 6 pm Friday 18th to Monday 21st December 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

MCGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES Catering for: • Individuals • Sole Traders, Partnerships & Companies • VAT, RCT, PAYE/PRSI, Financial Control, Completion of annual tax returns First consultation FREE, can meet clients outside office hours Provides training for start your own business and basic computers and accounting. Also training in Thesaurus accounting products

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

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.

BOUNCING CASTLES ROSCOMMON CASTLES

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

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

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

Tel: 087 2798704 CHIMNEY CLEANING CHIMNEY CLEANING POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

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.

CARS FOR SALE < FOR SALE: ‘05 Ford Mondeo Diesel. Taxed until end of December 2015. NCT’d until April 2016. Good tyres, very clean car inside and outside. €2,000ono. Contact John 086 0859674.

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

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

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

CHIROPODIST CHIROPODY Mary Lennon SRN, HSE Approved. Galway Road, Roscommon

(090) 66 26023 086 8225575 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 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

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

SYL’s

School of Motoring

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

Call (085) 1348779

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

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

Contact: 085 1348779 COUNSELLING COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY Are you effected by Anger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Confidence/self esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Call Billy (094) 96 59966 Mobile (086) 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

DRIVING LESSONS NOEL’S Driving School 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

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!

DRIVING LESSONS

DOCTORS’ ROTA

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

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

DOCKERY’S SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

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

(094) 98 80281/ (087) 2031909

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Classifieds DRIVING LESSONS

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

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

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TEL: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

Learn to drive with ....

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

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

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

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

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

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

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. MARGINAL LAND WANTED for Forestry (not bog) and existing forests, minimum 20 acres, buyers waiting. Call 0872234096. < HAYLAGE FOR SALE: 42 bales beside Roscommon town. Tel: 086 8054291. (no texts or private numbers).

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. Wash and dry. Call in or tel: 089 9883802.

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

KENNELS

JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms

LISBROCK BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY

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

(087) 9201818 Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

FOR HIRE

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

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.

Members of IBKCA

● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

Tel: 087 2721757

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.

www.aobtherapies.com www.facebook.com/ AOBTherapies

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

MACHINERY FOR SALE < FOR SALE: Massey Ferguson 135 tractor in perfect condition. All done up for work. Perfect in every way. €4,650ono. Phone: 086 1600879.

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

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

Located at Henry Street

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Denis Mc Carthy, intend to apply for Permission for Retain and complete a dwelling house and a domestic garage along with connections to services and all ancillary site works at: Graffoge Townland, Scramogue, Co Roscommon. Signed: Denis McCarthy. 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 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 Planning Permission is being sought by the RosMed partnership to change the use of existing second floor from previously approved residential use to medical and associated office use, at the Golf Links Road, Roscommon. Signed: RosMed Partnership. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the Planning Authority, Aras An Chontae, Roscommon during its opening hours, Mon – Fri, 9.30am – 1 pm, and 2 -4.30pm. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20.00, within 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of this application by Roscommon County Council.

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Philip Leetch, am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct a slatted shed and calf creep together with an external cattle crush, dungstead and concrete storage area and to carry out all associated site development works at Carrowndangan Td., Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Philip Leetch.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Canon Joseph Fitzgerald P.P, on behalf of the Board of Management of Tarmon National School intend to apply for Permission for (i) the construction of a 4 classroom single storey extension to the side (western) elevation of the existing school (ii) the construction of a single storey entrance porch to the front (southern) elevation of the existing GP hall (iii) a new roadside entrance (iv) the provision of additional car parking, hard and soft play areas, sensory garden and astro turf pitch (v) the installation of a new sewerage treatment unit and percolation area, along with connections to all services and all other associated site works at: Ballinphuill Td and Termon Beg Td, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd., Engineers & Architects, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph (090) 66 34421 Fax: (090) 66 34423 Email: info@ collinsboydeng.com

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

www.morrislohan.ie ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, John and Frieda Lawless, intend to apply fo rplanning permission for demolition of an existing garage and construction of a single storey extension to the side of an existing bungalow dwelling. The works also include the provision of a new septic tank and percolation area with all assocaited 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 of €20.00 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 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.

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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Vodafone Ireland Ltd intend to apply for Retention Permission for existing 18m telecommunications structure, carrying associated antennae and link dishes, associated equipment Cabins, all within existing secure compound, at Crannagh Beg Td, Athlone, County Roscommon. The development will continue to form part of existing GSM and 3G Broadband Network. Signed: Vodafone Ireland Ltd. 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 (€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.

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.

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

SEPTIC TANKS

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Classifieds

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

HUGH KILDUFF Hackney Service (086) 2479829

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 HACKNEY SERVICE Tommy Gilligan, Roscommon

(086) 8099503 JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

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. FIRST CHOICE TUTORIAL CENTRE: Leaving and Junior Certificate grinds classes available in Math, Science, Biology, Chemistry and Agricultural Science. Limited places available for January classes. For details or bookings call 087 9497825.

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. < FOR SALE: 40kg bag of smokeless coal, only €15 per bag, delivered. Contact Tony on 086 0703946. < LAST YEAR’S TURF sold in 7.5 tonne loads, 25% discount. Tel: 087 1413238.

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

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 < 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.

FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 12/12/2015 FIRST PRIZE €60: Liam Gately, c/o K. Hoare SECOND PRIZE €30: Margaret Fallon, c/o K. Collins THIRD PRIZE €20: Sean Fallon, c/o K. Collins 10 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Frank and Joe, c/o K. Hoare; Kathleen Gordon; Sr. Lena, c/o K. Collins; Padraig Muldoon, c/o K. Hoare; Dylan Beirne, c/o K. Collins; Bridget Finneran, c/o K. Collins; MJ Farrells; Denise Ward, c/o K. Hoare; Helen Kelly, c/o K. Collins; Sorcha Lynch, c/o K. Collins. 10 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Kirsty Dimambzo; Aaron Dimambzo; Breda Healy; John F. Kerrigan; John Kerrigan; Kathleen Finan; Kathleen Collins; K. Hoare; Kathleen Finan; Kirsty Dimambzo. TOTAL RECEIPTS €358. TOTAL PRIZES €260. * Saturday next,19th December - last draw before Christmas.

THANKGIVINGS ST. JOSEPH NOVENA FOR A SPECIAL INTENTION O glorious Saint Joseph, faithful follower of Jesus Christ, to you we raise our hearts and hands to implore your powerful intercession in obtaining from the benign heart of Jesus all the helps and graces necessary for our spiritual and temporal welfare, particularly for the grace of a happy death and the special favour we now request. (mention your request). O guardian of the Word Incarnate, we feel animated with confidence that your prayers in our behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God. O glorious St. Joseph, through the love you bear to Jesus Christ and for the glory of His name, hear our prayers and obtain our petitions. Amen. Thank you St. Joseph for hearing my prayer and for coming to my assistance. You have helped me greatly and I will always remember you. Very powerful Novena to St. Joseph Novena for a special intention. J.C.

THANKGIVINGS POWERFUL NOVENA TO ST. EXPEDITE PRAYER FOR DESPERATE CAUSES - PRAY TO ST. EXPEDITE My Saint Expedite of urgent and just causes, please intercede for me with Our Lord Jesus Christ Succor me in this hour of affliction and despair, My Saint Expedite You who are a Holy Warrior. You who are the Saint of the afflicted. You who are the Saint of the desperate. You who are the Saint of urgent causes. Protect me, Help me, give me Strength, Courage and Serenity. Hear my plea_____ clearly express what you, and ask Saint Expidite to find a way to get it to you. My Saint Expidite help me to prevail through these difficult hours, protect me from all who want to harm me, respond to my plea with urgency. Bring me back to that state of peace and tranquility, my Saint Expidite I will be grateful to you for the rest of my life, and I will speak your name to all those who have Faith (now promise to give Saint Expidite a specific offering when your desire is granted). Amen. (One Our Father, One Holy Mary and make the sign of the Cross) (make sure to provide the offering you promised if Saint Expidite grants your petition) This is so very powerful. He has answered so many requests for me and I really have my Faith in Him and love Him. Please do not doubt Him at all. He will take care of your intention in the best way. Also St. Jude, Our Blessed St. Expidite Lady and the Sacred Heart, St. Claire, St. Teresa, St. Martin, St. Michael and all the Guardian Angels and Holy Family for impossible request granted. W.M. NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask for 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 thus prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Many thanks. O. Mc.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. C.C.

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. C.C. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it). Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. M.S. 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.R. 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. C.K.

THANKGIVINGS PRAYER FOR A SPECIAL REQUEST Pray for 3 days. Publish on the 3rd day. See what will happen on the 4th day. Oh! Dear Mother of God, Our Lady of Conception Aparecida! Oh! Saint Rita of Cassia and Saint Jude worker of miracles and helper of impossible causes pray for me. Saint Expedite, Saint of urgent causes. Saint Edwiges the Saint of the needy, you know how desperate I feel, please ask Jesus to help me. (Here mention your request). May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored and glorified for ever. Pray 1 Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be... Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. M.H. 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. B.H.

CHRISTMAS DEADLINES Our CHRISTMAS EDITION will be in the shops on MONDAY 21ST DECEMBER, our deadline for this publication is 5PM ON THURSDAY, 17TH DECEMBER WE CANNOT GUARANTEE PUBLICATION AFTER THIS TIME 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 nonpublication. 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.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 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

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

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MULDOON Michael and Kitty

LEONARD Elizabeth

In loving memory of a dear father Michael, who died on 20th December 1986 and mother Kitty, who died on 18th December 2006 R.I.P. (29th and 9th Anniversaries) Also remembering at this time our sister

Bracklin, Donamon, Co. Roscommon 24th December 2008 R.I.P. (7th Anniversary)

Mary O’Toole (nee Muldoon) Michael Muldoon

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LEGAL NOTICE FOLIO: 8244 COUNTY ROSCOMMON LANDS: Carrowroe REGISTERED OWNER: Thomas Clarence Edward Goff (1911) In the Matter of the Registration of the Title Act 1964 In the Matter of an Application of William Connaughton for registration as Owner with an Absolute Title Application No.: D2014LR125289J TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, (and in particular the next of kin of the abovementioned registered owner) Take Notice that William Connaughton of Ardsallagh, Roscommon, County Roscommon has lodged an Application under Section 49 of the above Act to be registered as full owner with an absolute title of parts of the abovementioned folio lands. The map may be inspected at this Registry. All persons objecting to such registration are hereby required to file their objections in writing within one calendar month from the date of publication of this notice. In the absence of objection or in the event of any objection not being sustained registration will be effected. Dated this the 10th day of December 2015. Denis Connolly Assistant Principal The Property Registration Authority Chancery Street Dublin 7

CHRISTMAS DEADLINES Our CHRISTMAS EDITION will be in the shops on MONDAY 21ST DECEMBER, our deadline for CLASSIFIEDS AND FAMILY NOTICES for this publication is

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Who died on 29th May 1987 - 28th Anniversary and our brother Who died on 10th December 1990 - 25th Anniversary Cloverhill, Roscommon

Time and years slip gently by, But love and memories never die. In our hearts ye will always stay, Forever and ever, every day. Will those who think of them today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Sadly missed, loved and remembered always by your loving family. Anniversary Mass on Friday 18th December in Cloverhill Church at 8pm.

FALLON Millie

GALLAGHER Marie RIP

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Thinking of you dear mum this Christmas and picturing happy family gatherings around the Christmas tree years ago Where you sang and hummed the whole day through. For you mum were the Spirit of Christmas. Deep in our hearts mum, You will always stay.

Loved and remembered this Christmas and every day by your family. We also remember mum’s parents, Michael and Nora Carroll and deceased family members.

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newsbriefs Busy Needles at the Melting Pot In loving memory of John, who died on the 20th December 2004

In loving memory of Millie, who died on 21st December 2014 I thought of you today, but that is nothing new, I thought about you yesterday and days before that too. I think of you in silence, I often speak your name. All I have are memories and a picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake from which I’ll never part. God has you in His arms. I have you in my heart.

Sadly missed and remembered by your sons, daughters, sister, brothers, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and in-laws. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Tuesday 22nd December at 7pm.

In loving memory of Marie, who died on 25th December 2012 Sadly missed by Eamonn, Fiona, Andrea, Katharine and Ellen. Anniversary Mass in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Thursday 24th December 2015 at 10.30am.

Forever in our thoughts and prayers

Always remembered by your wife Anne and family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 20th December in Curraghroe Church at 10am.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie OUR DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF FAMILY NOTICES IS FOR MONDAY’S EDITION IS 5PM THURSDAY, 17TH DECEMBER

Busy Needles will host a craft sale on Friday the 18th of December in The Melting Pot community space in Roscommon town from 10 am to 2 pm. All proceeds will go to the Roscommon branch of MS Ireland/RSG Derrane. All support is greatly appreciated.

Recent Lisnamult draw The December winners of the Lisnamult draw are as follows: €100 Pat Hughes, €100 Robert Hill, €50 Helen Earley, €25 PJ Hunt, €25 Patrick Fleming, €25 Nuala Costello. Special Christmas draw: €25 Carmel Breaden, €25 Bernadette Carr, €25 Bridget Finneran, €25 Patrick Fleming. The winners of the tins of biscuits were Peggy Neilan, Gertrude Murray, Michael McNeela and Liam Byrne.

St Stephen’s Day Fun Run/ Walk St. Stephen’s Day will see a Fun Run/Walk taking place in aid of Irish Guide Dogs for the blind. The event will start at Knockcroghery Community Centre at 2 pm. There will be refreshments on the day as well as a free raffle. The organisers ask for a donation of €10 while children can take part for free.

‘Join Our Boys set for Heuston again The Join Our Boys fundraising and awareness drive in Heuston Station in Dublin is proving to be a great success but more help is needed for this weekend (Friday 18th, Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th) and also for next Tuesday (22nd). Many thanks to all who have helped over the seven days so far. For those interested in volunteering for the upcoming dates check out doodle.com and sign up for the Heuston Station event.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES BANAHAN John

PENDER Micheal

THOMPSON John

SANDS Brigid (Nana)

HANNON Paddy

The Grove, Kilteevan (5th Anniversary) Who died 19th December 2010

Carrarea, Athleague, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear husband, dad and grandad, who died on 21st December 2013

Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon Who died 13th December 2001 (14th Anniversary)

Golf Links Road, Roscommon Died 20th December 2014

Boughill, Ballyforan (2nd Anniversary)

God has you in his keeping We have you in our hearts Always in our thoughts and prayers.

Loved and remembered by his wife Kathleen and daughter Claire.

BANAHAN John (5th Anniversary) The Grove, Kilteevan, Roscommon Who died on 19th December 2010 Also remembering at this time Tom, Mary, Tony and Noel Banahan

Silent memories keep you near As time unfolds another year, From our lives you may have gone, But in our hearts you still live on. Always loved never forgotten.

From your loving family and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday 19th December at 7.30pm.

KELLY Vincent Cloonara, Derrane, Roscommon Who died on 21st December 2005 (10th Anniversary) Time passes, Memories stay Quietly remembered everyday.

Always remembered by Jim and Mary, Gallowstown, Roscommon

RAFTERY Pat Lanesboro Street, Roscommon Who died 21st December 2000

Gone from our lives But not gone from our thoughts You’ll live forever in our hearts.

Sadly missed by your wife Betty and family. Anniversary Mass on Monday 21st December in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 8am.

One of the best this world could hold, Never selfish, Always kind. Deep are the memories Precious they stay, No passing of time can take them away, A silent thought, A quiet prayer For a special person in God’s care. Will those who think of him today A little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and always remembered by your sons Noel and Des, daughter Frances, son-in-law, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.

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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.

Lovingly remembered always by his wife Margaret and family. Anniversary Mass on 22nd December at 7.30pm in Ballyforan Church.

O’BEIRNE Moira Sandfield, Rahara (3rd Anniversary) In loving memory of Moira, who died on 25th December 2012

Special memories keep you near, As time unfolds another year. Each of us in our own way have special thoughts of you today. Will those who think of her today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Third Anniversary Mass in Knockcroghery Church on Saturday 2nd January at 7pm.

McTIERNAN Bernie Cooltigue, Fourmilehouse (7th Anniversary)

On the first anniversary of her passing, Brigid’s children Mairead, Tom, Ita, Pat, Philo, Donal and Anne together with their families wish to thank most sincerely all of those who sympathised with them on their sad loss. We are extremely grateful to our extended family, friends and neighbours for their kind support, those who called to our home, attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial; those who sent Mass and sympathy cards and floral tributes. We greatly appreciated all who travelled long distances to be with us at that time. We are very grateful to those who helped us care for Brigid in her home, namely Dr. Cyril Crosby and his staff, Public Health Nurse Margaret Sexton, David Hynes and his staff and her kind and wonderful carers Bertha Finneran and Mary Dunne. Thanks also to Anne Kelly, her loyal hairdresser. A special thanks to Fr. Sean Beirne, her good friend who attended Brigid with the Blessed Sacrament each Sunday over the last few years. We are grateful to Monsignor Travers, Canon McLoughlin and Fr. Irek who concelebrated the Funeral Mass with Fr. Sean and also the choir, Altar Servers, Sacristan who made the service special. Our sincere thanks to Pat and Tom Smyth for their kindness, professionalism and their unique personal attention. Thanks also to Sean Connaughton who prepared a beautiful final resting place for our wonderful mother. It is impossible to thank everyone individually, we were touched and grateful for your support over the past year. The Holy sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. We were blessed to have known Brigid (Nana), her sweet spirit and beautiful way of looking at the world made us all feel truly loved. May she rest in peace.

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

Always remembered by his loving wife Maureen and family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 19th December in St. Brigid’s Church, Fourmilehouse.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 20th December at 12.15 in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

In loving memory of Paddy, who died on 23rd December 2013 RIP I once had something special that money couldn’t buy I had a special person but I had to say goodbye You’re in my thoughts every single day throughout the year At special times like Christmas When the Angels took you Home. It was just the hardest time of all for us to be apart. Every day without you since you had to go Is like a summer without sunshine and a winter without snow. If Heaven had a window and God granted me a view, Of all the beauty it beholds I’d just look for you. So until we meet again, love and miss you so much.

Your wife Carmel. Second Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan on Monday 21st December at 7pm. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ So much in life has changed So much is life is new So many things we have to share with you Had you been left to stay. But one thing never changes Is the love we have for you Each of us in our own special way Have loving thoughts of you.

Lovingly remembered by your daughter Emer, sons Jonathan and Noel, daughter-in-law Caroline, grandchildren Jack, Chloe and Saoirse and Emer’s fiance Eric. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CARTY Frank and Una Ballyleague, Roscommon (2nd and 9th Anniversaries)

In loving memory of Frank, who passed away on the 19th December 2013 and his wife Una, who passed away on 4th January 2007 Also remembering Una’s parents Dominick and Bridget Fallon and her sister Nancy Donnellan, Toronto who died on April 2nd 2015, and Una and Frank’s daughter-in-law, Mary You know that we will always be with you, Even if we don’t see each other For months or years. Sacred Heart of Jesus I place all my trust in thee. Sometimes our lives are touched by people who are so special that we are happier just because we know them. And you were both very special people.

Sadly missed by family and friends. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 2nd January 2016 in the Holy Rosary Church, Ballyleague at 7pm.

McDONNELL Teresa and James Lisnagabra, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of Teresa, who died on 23rd November 2007 Aged 94 years and James, who died on 14th December 1992 Aged 84 years (8th and 23rd Anniversaries)

Special memories keep them near, As time unfolds another year. Each of us in our own way Have special thoughts of them today.

Always remembered by their loving family. Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads on Sunday 20th December at 11am.

As each day dawns we think of you As each night falls we pray for you Throughout our lives no matter where In our hearts you are always there.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by your sisters Mary, Nellie and families.

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Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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The local paper! OUR DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF FAMILY NOTICES IS FOR MONDAY’S EDITION IS 5PM THURSDAY, 17TH DECEMBER WE CANNOT GUARANTEE PUBLICATION AFTER THIS TIME

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

Business Roscommon woman Margaret makes ‘best brown bread in Ireland’ In September, in the Aldi marquee at the National Ploughing Championships, Margaret Sexton, a community nurse and mother of two from Ros-

common, won the National Brown Bread Baking competition, which was run in association with the NPA, ICA and Aldi. Margaret’s winning

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brown bread, ‘Margaret’s Loaf’, hit the shelves of all 122 Aldi stores just in time for Christmas, priced at €1.49. Margaret’s brown bread is being made by Stapleton’s Bakery in Roscrea, Co. Tipperary with ingredients that include honey, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds. Margaret said, “In the run-up to the competition I must have baked over 100 loaves of bread. I was feeding my entire neighbourhood! I think the brown bread is a celebrated symbol of Irish cuisine. “How I serve my bread is dictated by the occasion. It complements a warm

bowl of soup, works as a lovely starter with smoked salmon or just topped with butter, jam and enjoyed with a cuppa!” Being a community nurse, Margaret said that her brown bread recipe was influenced by health considerations. “I think my bread marries tradition with modern influences, it brings elements of the traditional brown bread but delivers on the demands of the modern day dietary requirements”. RIGHT: Margaret Sexton pictured with her children Isabelle and Tom and their friends.

Gleeson’s Townhouse in trivago Top 20 Hotel search website trivago.ie have revealed the results of their inaugural Top Hotel Awards, using aggregated online user ratings in order to recognise the bestrated hotels, both regionally and nationally. Gleeson’s Townhouse is the only premises in Roscommon to make this illustrious list that features names such as Glenlo Abbey in Galway, Mount Falcon in Mayo, The Lodge at Ashford Castle and Sligo’s Cromleach Lodge. David Lintott, UK & Ireland Public Relations:

“The trivago Top Hotel Awards aim to judge all accommodation fairly, whether they are a guest house in Westport, a B&B in Clifden or a luxury hotel in Galway. It is really encouraging to see a range of accommodation, both in terms of hotel type and geographical location, in our top 20.” Gleeson’s Townhouse celebrates 25 years in business in Roscommon in 2016. The family-run establishment on Market Square in Roscommon is renowned for its warm and welcoming hospitality, comfort, service and food.

Lynch Flooring Competition winner

Lynch Flooring, Golf Links Road, Roscommon recently ran a competition for two tickets to see Kodaline in the 3 Arena. Anita Murphy was the lucky winner and her husband, David, popped in to receive them from Gabriel Lynch on her behalf.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

SportsPeople This weekend’s action: No racing this afternoon and tomorrow evening final action on the all weather for 2015 takes place at Dundalk with stalls opening for the first at 6.00pm. Saturday racing is on in Co Meath at Fairyhouse first away at 12.00pm. Sunday’s the action is on at Thurles where the last meeting before Christmas takes place at 12.40pm. The going updates as of Wednesday are heavy, soft to heavy in places, at Fairyhouse and heavy at Thurles. Cross channel at Ascot there is the Grade 1 Long Walk World Hurdle. The 9 runner field looks like being a match between the English trained pair Saphir Du Rheu and Thistlecrack with Gordon Elliott’s Taglietelle and Willie Mullins’ Thousand Stars making the journey across the small pond. The Grade 3 Ladbroke Handicap Hurdle is also on the card and there are 7 Irish raiders in the potential field of 56 as we write.

At Tramore on Saturday the last two races were abandoned and Sunday’s Cork meeting, again fell victim to the weather, was cancelled due to the course being flooded. Cork’s Grade 2 Hilly Way Chase and Grade 3 EBF Mares Novice Chase were both ran at Navan on Monday as part of an 8 race card. Yesterday’s Clonmel meeting was postponed falling victim to the recent rain which rendered the track unraceable due to waterlogging. The fixture has been rescheduled for next Tuesday and includes the Grade Three Kerry Group Stayers Novice Hurdle from last weekend’s abandoned Cork meeting on an 8 race card. Weekly Review The Glenfarcas Cross Country Chase at Cheltenham last week proved a benefit race for Enda Bolger and Nina Carberry as the 7-Y-O Josie’s Orders took the honours by 2l from Sire Collonges with the Peter Maher trained Ballybroker Bridge 12l back in 3rd. Ballybroker Bridge, a winner in Rockfield last year, is one to watch.

Horses for Courses

Josie’s Orders and Nina Carberry clear a cross country obstacle

Dermot Weld’s Free Eagle ran a disappointing race in the Hong Kong Cup at Sha Tin on Sunday beating only one horse, of the 14 runners, home and will be now retired to stud. The race was won by local hope A Shin Hikari. In the sprint Eddie Lynam’s Sole Power finished well down the field in 11th behind Peniaphobia formerly trained by Richard Fahey at Malton inYorkshire. There was compensation for the Irish raiding party when Highland Reel gave Aidan O’Brien his first winner on the track. Ridden by Ryan Moore the winner was passed by Flintshire and he battled back to win snugly by 1½l. This Week’s News The connections of Special Tiara who met serious interference from the winner Sire de Grugy at the last in the Tingle Creek decided not to proceed with an appeal.

by Tom Red Highland Reel wins snuggly at Sha Tin for Aidan O’Brien’s first win

On Monday the Turf Club’s Appeals and Referral Committee dealt with Pat Fahy and Alan Crowe’s appeal in relation to the running of Shantou Ed and Tony Martin and Philip Enright’s appeal in relation to the running of Bobbie’s Diamond at Fairyhouse on November 28th. The rid-

ers 7 day suspensions and the trainers fines were lifted as were both 30 day bans on the horses. New veterinary advice in relation to both horses was available which the acting Fairyhouse stewards did not have available to them. Last season’s Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Coneygree will miss the King George at Kempton over the Christmas and could be sidelined for the remainder of the season including the Gold Cup with a leg injury. The runner-up last March, Djakadam, could return to Prestbury Park to run in the BetBright Cup Cotswold Chase at the end of January. Willie Mullins’ winner of the John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase earlier this month also has the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown’s Christmas meeting on the agenda but it may come too soon after the John Durkan. Point to Point Corner Point to Point racing takes its winter break and the next meeting is scheduled for New Year’s Eve at Dromahane in Cork. In the meantime there are Hunter Chases at Down Royal on St Stephen’s Day and at Limerick on the 27th.

Golf

Athlone Golf Club Christmas Open Competition: Ladies and gents 15-hole runs from Saturday, 26th December to Sunday, 3rd January with the option of re-entry. Timesheet opens on Thursday, 17th December. Turkey winners 6th December: Frank O’Regan 55 1/3,Michael Downes 57, Patrick Kenny Jnr. 57. Club Competition Saturday, 5th /Sunday, 6th December1st Nett: Pat McCormack (20) 40 points,Class A: Anthony O’Connor (9) 35 points, Bk 9Class B: Ted O’Brien (13) 38 points,Class C: Frank O’Regan (26) 36 points. AWGS Competition 10th December-Winner: T. Shaw 26 points,Class 1: E. Kelly 26 points,Class 2: P. McNamara 21 points,Class 3: J. Kinahan 21 points,Veteran: V. Connaire 18 points. The Winter League is well under way and some players have all rounds completed. All 6 rounds need to be completed by 31st January with the top 16 teams qualifying for match play. Ladies Club weekly 12-hole competition 5th/6th/8th

registrar, Mickey Freyne, on 087-1278066.

December-1st: Alacoque O’Connor (16) 21 points. Weekly 15-hole competition 5th/6th/8th December1st: Maeve Holmes (14) 20 points.

Boyle Golf Club

Roscommon Golf Club The winner of the Men’s Over 55’s was Vincent Pierse, Michael Sharkey was in second place with Jim Finn in third place. The result of the Over 55’s Christmas Hamper Competition was Ollie Dempsey in first place, Michael Sharkey in second place and Richard Browne in third place. All other competitions fell victim to the weather. Please also note that gift vouchers for golf lessons with Philip Murphy (PGA professional) are available- please contact Philip on 086-8894232 for further details.

Carrick-onShannon Golf Club Christmas hamper: Last chance to get your three cards in. The presentation will be at the Christmas Party on Saturday night (December

Pictured recently at Roscommon Golf Club, from (L-r) are Mario Costello (Men’s Champion Golfer of the Year), Francis Ferguson (captain) and Thomas Higgins (Junior Golfer of the Year - sponsored by Brian Keogh).

19th). Christmas presents: Give the gift of golf membership to someone you love this Christmas. For visiting friends and relatives, how about some green fee gift vouchers/footgolf vouchers? No need to call out, simply

ring Chris on 071 9667015. Christmas party: A great night ahead with the presentation of the Golfer of the Year, Lidl Garvey and Lynch, Lunney’s Hamper and Xmas Hamper.

Castlerea Golf Club Are you having difficulty buying Christmas presents for your family? You could purchase a membership voucher from the golf club. Please contact the club

The Christmas Bonanza which was scheduled to be held on Sunday last was postponed due to inclement conditions. It will now take place this upcoming Sunday, December 20th, weather permitting. Tee times can be booked on the BRS online system through the club’s website. The weekly Winter Open 9hole will also take place this week subject to golf course conditions. Gift vouchers are available to purchase and would make an ideal Christmas gift. They can be used for bar/catering facilities as well as contributing to membership fees. Regarding the latter, very keen rates exist for beginner players wishing to take up the game. Email Michael at Info@boylegolfclub.com for more details. In other local sporting news, commiserations to the Boyle GAA U-21 team who were defeated by Clann na nGael in the Division 1 Final last Sunday.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

SportsPeople

Rossies hoping for Kiltoom Christmas crackers The Roscommon senior football team hope to serve up two ‘Christmas Crackers’ in Kiltoom during the festive season. Two floodlit challenge games are lined up against Laois this Saturday at 7.30 pm (December 19th) and Meath on Tuesday, December 29th at 7 pm. These games will provide a fantastic opportunity for supporters to watch the new management team of Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell run the rule over a host of new and returning faces attempting to impress and make the cut ahead of the FBD Connacht League and Allianz Division One League in January.

Admission to each game is €10 and proceeds from each game will be split between the team training fund and charities nominated by the team managers. The proceeds from the Laois game will be shared with the ‘Shalom Centre for Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation’ in Nairobi, Kenya, which was the charity chosen by Kevin McStay. Shalom aims to end the cycle of violence and war, primarily in Eastern Africa, through peacebuilding, human development and reconciliation. The charity was founded in 2009 by Frenchpark native Fr. Padraig Devine, a keen footballer and

county medallist with Western Gaels GAA Club. Fergal O’Donnell chose Mayo-Roscommon Hospice Foundation, as the charity to benefit from the share of the proceeds from the Meath game on December 29th. Roscommon GAA, through the kindness and generosity of John and Lily Murphy, has a close association with the charity and has been involved in a number of fundraising initiatives for the cause in recent years. What better way to round off the year than watching live football and supporting two great causes! Kevin McStay

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

Euros draw not as bad as it seems < DAN DOONER

The Republic of Ireland have been drawn in group E in next summer’s European Championships in France. Group E alongside Belgium, Zlatan and Italy. Or the ‘Group of Death’ as it’s been labeled in some quarters. I have no doubt, however, that with Richie Towell leading the line we will fare better than we did in 2012! Seriously though it’s going to be extremely tough in that company and we’ll not only need to avoid injuries to important players, we’ll also need those players to perform at their very best. I have confidence in Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane and I believe we’ll be much more difficult to beat this time around. I also don’t think that our opponents are as good as their reputations suggest. Italy, under Antonio Conte, have been fortunate to finish top of their group. The poor behaviour of some Croatian supporters have helped them in that regard.

Sweden have some very good players, when they’re in the mood. There are times when the Swedes can look very ordinary. World rankings account for Belgium’s hype. I see them as the best team in the group on paper, but as the Belgians have proved in the past: they’re more waffle than winners. As for other predictions, well you can expect an important England player to get injured two months before the tournament. Don’t worry though, Uri Geller will fix him just enough to play really badly in the group stages before they go out on penalties. Northern Ireland will do well to get out of their group but what they lack in technical ability they make up for in pluckiness so I wouldn’t be surprised if they were to pull off a shock. At the moment it’s difficult to pick a stand out national team, although something tells me Spain will be much improved from the World Cup and the host nation, France, tend to enjoy playing tournaments at home.

Soccer Fixtures

th ber (8 pm) Friday, 18 Decemth nd FAI Junior Cup 5 Rous FC. E. orri Moore United v Clarem Deering th ) Saturday, 19 (7.45 pm n isio The Herald Premier Div FC. W. oe Castlerea Celtic v BallymCollins Stokes, R. Stokes, E. n1 Norio’s Takeaway Divisio tic. C. Shiven Rovers v Glen Cel Fitzgibbon

Robbie Brady celebrates scoring for the Republic of Ireland in the play-off first leg against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

th (2 pm) Sunday, 20 December ision Div r mie Pre rald He The art FC. M. St. John’s Athletic v DysMcCrossan J. ds, nol Rey K. tt, Hatche ers. D. Dully, MD Town v Skyvalley Rov ring E. Deering, A. Dee n1 Norio’s Takeaway Divisio. G. Kelly ted Uni gh scra Aha v as Brazuk lynn Ballinasloe Town v Loughg United. N. Larkin errin Ballaghaderreen FC v Kilk United. A. Gonclaves Division 2 Killeen Sports GroundMD Town. Roscommon United v D. Jordan . M. Devlin CP Ajax v Cloonfad UnitedT. Cormican Moylough 79 v KC Celtic. United. R. Lough Harps v Moore Stokes n’s Athletic. Skyvalley Rovers v St. Joh D. Kiernan

Ballagh’ crash out in Wexford

England players look dejected after bowing out of the 2014 World Cup.

The only game to go ahead last weekend was Ballaghaderreen’s FAI Junior Cup 5th round fixture against Ferns United in Wexford. A game they took the lead in through Dylan Edwards before getting blown away by a strong Ferns side by four goals to one. Disappointing for the Roscommon & District side but they can take great heart in their run in the competition and will no doubt be even hungrier for silverware this season. Einstein once said ‘Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.’ Today, as I sit here about to write another weekend preview, I know exactly how my fellow tormented genius felt. On Saturday in the Premier Division, Castlerea Celtic will entertain Ballymoe as they look to keep pace with the top three.

On Sunday in the Premier Division St. John’s entertain Dysart and Skyvalley Rovers travel to MD Town. In Division One this weekend Shiven Rovers entertain Glen Celtic on Saturday. On Sunday, Brazukas entertain Ahascragh United, Ballinasloe take on Loughglynn United and Ballaghaderreen entertain Kilkerrin United. In Division Two on Sunday, Roscommon United who were all very well behaved at their recent fundraiser will look to halt the progress of the league leaders, MD Town. CP Ajax will entertain Cloonfad United in Castleplunkett, Moylough 79 take on KC Celtic at home, Moore United travel to Lough Harps and Skyvalley Rovers entertain St. John’s Athletic.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT UFC

Conor talks the talk, but walks the walk < DAN DOONER

13 seconds was all it took for Conor McGregor to back up his constant trash talk in the two build-ups to his fight with Brazilian great, José Aldo. You may remember this fight was supposed to happen during the summer but José Aldo pulled out with an injury and Chad Mendes was knocked out instead. Say what you want about the new

undisputed featherweight champion but the man has the ability to back up any cockiness. Sure, McGregor’s not everyone’s cup of tea but he is fighting for and doing his country proud. He’s definitely out of the Roy Keane school of ‘We shouldn’t sing when we’re losing’ and that is very refreshing in this country. MMA has been described as many things but let’s get one thing straight:

It takes years of dedication and is far more than just a brawl. Keep in mind that a lot of these guys are black belts in various martial arts and if you think that’s easy you have obviously never attempted a high kick! The next question is: Where to from here? My guess is a match against Frankie Edgar before stepping up to a more comfortable weight division, with a lot of talking in between.

Conor McGregor became the undisputed UFC Featherweight Champion in Las Vegas last weekend.

Darts

McDermott’s on top heading into Christmas The ninth 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: Ned’s Bar 5 Creaton’s 2, The Hollywood 0 The Forge 7, Flanagan’s 3 McDermott’s 4. The game between Charlie’s and An Bothar Rua was cancelled. After nine rounds McDermott’s lead the league on 38 points. The Forge (34), Ned’s (26) and The Hatch (25) complete the top four spots. Following on from these teams are An Bothar Rua (21), Flanagan’s (21), Charlie’s (20), The Hollywood (16) and Creaton’s (16). The league now takes a break for Christmas although there are a number of rescheduled games to be played next week. Round 10 of the league will take place Friday 8th January, with the following fixtures down for decision: The Hollywood v The Hatch, Ned’s Bar v An Bothar Rua, Flanagan’s v The Forge, Charlie’s v McDermott’s. Christmas Singles: Sunday, December 20th sees the Annual Christmas Singles Competition being played in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon. Names must be in by 2.45 pm, with games to begin at 3 pm. The competition is open to all players in the Roscommon region. €10 entry for adults and €5 entry for youths. Money in/money out plus €200. Best of 9x501 initially, with an open draw after each round. Everyone is welcome.

Rugby

Support your local Creggs car washers The annual Christmas car wash in Roscommon to raise badly needed funds for the Creggs underage and CBS/ Community school’s rugby takes place again this weekend. This year it runs again for two days – Saturday, 19th and Sunday, December 20th from 10 am to 4 pm. Please support youth, mini and school rugby and get you car washed for Christmas. We need lots of help from senior players, youth team players, as well as parents of school, youth and mini rugby teams. Please contact Vincent Collins to add your name to the roster, to do a 10 am to 1 pm or a 1 pm to 4 pm shift on the Saturday or Sunday. Heineken Junior Cup draw: The draw for the 2015/16 Heineken Connacht Junior Cup was made in Claremorris on Monday night. Creggs are will play OLBC (Boys Club) in the Preliminary Round on January, 24th in Galway. If the club wins that round, the reward will be a home game in the next round v Connemara RFC, a week later on January 31st. Fixtures will be played in this competition at the earlier KO time of 2 pm to allow for the possibility of extra time. The remaining rounds will be played on the following consecutive dates: The quarter-final will be played on the 7th of February, the semi-final is on February 14th; with the final two weeks later on the 27th of February.

The St. Ciarán’s Minor panel pictured with Frankie Dolan, Tadgh O’Rourke, Cathal Compton and other guests following their recent presentation night in Creggs NS Hall where they received their Division 1 winners medals.

Swimming

Coman’s swimmers among the medals in Longford A small group of young swimmers from Coman’s Swimming Club travelled to Longford for the Connacht A Gala on the 15th of November. The only male club representative was 10-yearold, Philip Duda, who swam a superb personal best time in the 100m Freestyle, which earned him 5th place in the 11 and under category and more importantly a qualifying time for the Division 2 age group

championships in UL next summer. The first event for the girls was the 100m IM and the three 11-year-olds, Jessica Gannon, Ava McFadden and Roisin O’Brien did themselves and their club proud by finishing 1st, 3rd and 5th respectively in the 11 and under category. It was the first time Ava and Roisin had competed in this event. Ciara Kilcommons, who has only recently turned 12, swam an excellent 10

second personal best in the event and 13 year old Anastazya Pliszka posted an excellent time in her first time competing in this event also. Anastazya also posted a great time in the 100m Butterfly, another event in which she was competing for the first time. However, she particularly excelled in her final swim of the day, the 100m Freestyle, where she knocked 4 seconds off her PB and earned

herself a Division 2 qualifying time also. Ciara Kilcommins also swam in the 100m Butterfly and 100m Freestyle events, achieving PB times in both. Roisin O’Brien entered the 100m Freestyle event and shaved almost four seconds of her PB despite having only competed in this event quite recently. Ava McFadden also achieved a significant PB in the 100m Freestyle event and earned herself a second bronze medal. Jessica Gannon

had a great day, winning gold medals in all four of the individual events she entered. Orla Ryan, aged 13, swam really well in her two events, the 100m Butterfly and 100m Freestyle, achieving a fantastic seven second PB in the former. The three 11-year-old girls were joined by 10year-old teammate Ellie Moran for the 11 and under medley relay. All four girls swam really well to secure first place and finish the day on a high.

Tweets of the Week Colm Beirne @CBBeirne 5 years done. Thank you to the players, managers, media, officers & clubs. Badge & Gun ready to hand over to @ithugh. Paul McGrath @Paulmcgrath5 Bit of a tough group, but we have beaten the world champions so why not everyone else!

The Coman’s Swimming Club relay team which won at the recent Connacht A Gala in Longford: Ava McFadden, Jessica Gannon, Ellie Moran and Roisin O’Brien

Coach John Kavanagh @John_Kavanagh +10 years daily training for 1 perfect punch. What an amazing story and it’s still been (sic) written.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Exciting times ahead as new faces lead the County Board The annual GAA convention had become a very low-key event in recent years with little excitement. Gone are the days when it took maybe six or seven hours to complete the business and in fact there were a few years when we had to come back a second night to get it finished. Thankfully those days are gone because things are far more streamlined now, and much better ran. This year’s convention was definitely more interesting than most in the past few years. The reason is that there were so many new faces coming on to the executive this year. The five-year rule meant that some officers had to step down and on top of that there were four elections for various posts. For the past few years there have been very few elections for any posts on the executive so it was good to see people interested in running for jobs. It’s not as if there

is anything out of these jobs in terms of pay but it is healthy that there is interest in running the association in the county. No less than nine new names will serve on the executive for 2016 and while those who stepped aside or failed to be elected deserve great credit in the first place, it is good to see change every so often. I wish all the new officers the best of luck in the coming year. It is easy to criticise the people who run the county board but the vast majority of these people do not get a penny for what they do and they give the GAA an enormous amount of time. The priorities for the coming years in Roscommon GAA will be to get a proper county training facility up and running after years of delay. That must be priority number one. The develop-

ment of Dr. Hyde Park is also a priority and must be started soon. We all know how well located it is and what is needed there. The falling number of players at underage level in many clubs is also a problem and was mentioned by a number of speakers on Saturday too. Other items like coaching, finance, a proper club fixtures structure for players and of course our county teams are all very important and have to be looked after. It’s a huge responsibility for any group and I wish the new executive the best of luck. Despite all the changes that we have seen in Irish society over the years the GAA is still by far the biggest sporting organisation locally and we are lucky that there are still people who are prepared to give up their time to run it’s affairs.

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Seamus Sweeney, Roscommon County Board Chairman, Andy Mulligan and Seamus Regan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Clann’s young guns next Dawn of a new era for Roscommon football on conveyor belt Clann na nGael showed once again last Sunday that they are a coming force in Roscommon club football after they swept to the county U-21 title for the second year in a row and they have a big supply of very talented young players on the way up. Remember too that they won this game without probably their best player, Ultan Harney. The likes of Ciaran O’Reilly, Fergal Lennon and Jamie Fahey were sensational but they have many fine

young players and the future is looking good. They are the senior champions and they will be hard to knock off their perch in 2016. I know that there is no other time to play this championship but it is a very tough time of the year to be playing a county final. The weather is totally unsuitable for championship football. Just a note of thanks to the St. Croan’s club for their hospitality last Sunday. Their pitch is in excellent shape

and they treated anyone who was there to a cup of hot soup at half-time which was very badly needed and very much appreciated. Well done also to Elphin who scored a stunning win in the Division Two final against the odds and also to Kilmore/Shannon Gaels on their win in the Division Three competition. It’s a good start to the tenure of the new chairman Seamus Sweeney and the new vice-chairman Padraig Naughton too!

Boys in green given tough French task The Republic of Ireland will come up against Zlatan Ibrahimovic in their opening game at Euro 2016.

What a draw Ireland got in the Euro 2016 finals. I don’t think that the draw could have been any harder for both players and the fans. Belgium are a class side with some fantastic players and we all know about Italy, Sweden are not great but they are still strong. The opening game against Sweden will be the really big one in the group for Ireland. If we could get a draw or even a win then it would be a great start. But to lose that would leave a mountain to climb with Belgium and Italy to come. But I think that Ireland will do well. We will be hard to beat that’s for sure. The fans will face huge journeys. From Paris to Bordeaux for game two and then at least 800 kilometres to Lille for the final game. The Credit Unions will be on overtime in April and May I think! The game between England and Wales will be one of the most eagerly awaited for many years. I would have a huge fancy for Wales to win this game. They will give it everything and they have some very good players as well. One thing for sure the Euros will add to what will already be a very good summer of sport.

The Roscommon senior footballers play their first game in public under their new management when they take on Laois in Kiltoom in a challenge game on Saturday (7.30 pm) and it is the start of a new era for Roscommon football. While the outcome of this game is not important the build up now starts for one of the biggest years in Roscommon football for many years. I

know that there are several injuries to key players but the preparations will have to start somewhere. The money raised will be split between a players fund and the Shalom Charity which is run by Fr. Padraig Devine who is doing great work in Africa and further afield. I hope it’s a reasonable evening and a great success.

From the Internet Conor McGregor may be popular in Vegas but this column isn’t a fan!

Conor is just not cricket

I’d like to think that with the exception of cricket (that I just never got into) I would watch most sports on TV. I have even watched a bit of oneday cricket over the years – but UFC and Conor McGregor? No thanks. In the build-up to the fight last week the ads featured one young guy who told us that he loved ”to look good and hurt people”. There are more rules and regulations in a row outside the chipper on a Saturday night after the disco. And before people start writing to tell me that McGregor is the biggest thing in Las Vegas and that thousands of Irish people went to see his ’fight’ at the weekend can I just say that just because he’s popular and successful doesn’t mean the sport is any more appealing. The best of luck to Conor McGregor – himself and his ‘sport’ is not for me. He earned $237,077 for every second he was in the ring last Saturday night. He is now the favourite to win the RTE Sports Personality Of The Year. I find that thought utterly depressing.

Martin Republic of Ireland manager, side’s his from e hop w dra O’Neill, will many after remarkable recent win over Gero 2016 draw Eur gh tou a ded han e wer they ed alongside on Saturday. The Irish were pittGroup E at the in den Belgium, Italy and Swe section of all. finals, arguably the toughest as the number ked ran tly ren cur With Belgium o 2012 runnersone team in the world and Eur side to avoid the as ed ard reg ely wid y up Ital , O’Neill admitted from all the teams in pot two llenge. cha us his team face an enormo for us. But we’ll “I think the draw is difficult ’ll go and try and go there with confidence. We Paris where the compete,” he told reporters in draw ceremony was held. se competitions, “And Sweden know about the and seem to nce they’ve got so much experie through. It’s one know how to qualify and get ard to even if the I think our fans will look forw games are hard for us.” opponents at the Sweden will be Ireland’s first th of June, with a 13 y, nda Mo Stade de France on m following that trip to Bordeaux to face Belgiutackle the Italians n the l wil y The r. five days late Wednesday, 22nd in the northern city of Lille on game. It is a June in a daunting final group h, who lost 2-0 to repeat of Euro 2012 for the Irise in Poland, when Italy in their final group gam nt and with just they went home without a poi one goal to their name.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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The Clann na nGael team that won the Division 1 U-21 Football Championship Final. Picture: Andrew Fox

CLANN-TASTIC CIARAN! BOYLE HAVE NO ANSWER TO O’REILLY-INSPIRED CLANN Dermot Hughes Cars County U-21 Football Championship Division 1 Final CLAN NA NGAEL

2-18

Clann na nGael 2-18 Boyle 0-5 BOYLE < SEAMUS DUKE

Clann na nGael’s position at the top of the Roscommon club football tree was strengthened even further last Sunday at Enfield when they swatted

0-5

away the weak challenge of Boyle to retain their county U-21 title and thus they end the year as the undisputed kings of Roscommon club football after their senior success earlier in the year.

Clann were never in any trouble in this game, which was played in very cold and wet conditions but on a very good pitch. With Ciaran O’Reilly and Fergal Lennon outstanding, Clann dominated from pillar to post. Boyle, to their credit, gave it everything, but they were totally outclassed on the day. Scores were hard to come by in the opening quarter but Clann dominated possession, and by the 16th

Laoise McNamara pictured flying the flag in Ballintubber. Picture: Andrew Fox

minute they led by 1-3 to 0-1. David Connaughton opened the scoring in the 6th minute with a fisted point but then Ciaran O’Reilly took over and he treated the fair sized crowd to some wonderful scoring. He blasted home a super goal in the 9th minute after good work from Ruahdri McManus and Jamie Fahey, and he tacked on two fine points (one a free) to open up a six-point gap. Boyle opened their account with a Cian McKeon effort from play in the 22nd minute but it was one-way traffic for the most part and Ciaran O’Reilly kicked three more points (all from play) before half-time to help his side into a 1-6 to 0-2 lead at the break. Dylan East scored Boyle’s other point while David Connaughton scored Clann’s remaining point of the first half. The pattern continued in the second half with Clann on top, although with the score at 1-9 to 0-3 Boyle were handed a lifeline when Cian McKeon was fouled in the large square while on his way to goal but his penalty kick was easily saved by Clann goalkeeper Dylan Colgan. After that Boyle miss Clann opened up altogether and the scores piled up. Jamie Fahey scored four magnificent points in a row and with six minutes left Fergal Lennon got in on the scoring act with a

Now you see me, now you don’t: Tadgh McKenna evades the challenge of Shane Petit. Picture: Andrew Fox

magnificent goal. Clann emptied their bench after that as their management gave their panel a run in the final few minutes. Boyle were gallant in defeat but they were just outclassed and they could have no complaints on the day. Clann na nGael: Dylan Colgan; Aaron O’Reilly, Paddy Harney, Martin Flannery; Jack Connaughton (0-1), Fergal Lennon (1-0), Shane Pettit; Stephen Flynn (0-1), Darragh Pettit; Cathal Callinan, Ciaran O’Reilly (1-8, 3 frees), David Connaughton (0-2); Jamie Fahey (0-4), Rudhri McManus, Cian McManus. Subs: Cillian Bannon for C McManus (52), Rian

McNamara (0-1) for Fahey (53), Sean McManus for J Connaughton (56). Boyle: Patrick Goldrick; Gareth Gilmartin, Ryan Finneran, Jack Cox; Conor Tivnan, Evan McGrath, Tadgh McKenna; Enda

Smith (0-1), Thomas Halligan; Conor Flanagan, Colin Goldrick (0-1, free), Ben Kerins; Conor Deery, Cian McKeon (0-2), Dylan East. Sub: Bruan Furey for Tivnan (h-t). Referee: Paul Daly

MAN OF THE MATCH: Ciaran O’Reilly (Clann na nGael) For a gallant but well beaten Boyle, Evan McGrath, Enda Smith, Colin Goldrick and Cian McKeon had their moments. For a rampant Clann side Jack Connaughton Stephen Flynn, Jamie Fahy and David Connaughton were very prominent but the stars of the show were Fergal Lennon at centre half back and Ciaran O’Reilly at centre half forward. O’Reilly was unstoppable and his total of 1-8 is a magnificent one in a major county final and his display will be remembered by Clann fans for a long time to come.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Johnny Murphy, Paul Daly, Martin Silke and Pat Compton. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Anthony Flaherty, Hugh Lynn and Seamus Regan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Convention news round-up < SEAMUS DUKE

The motions There was nothing too controversial on the motions front. A motion from the Co Committee that would have seen the Northern Board abolished was defeated after a number of clubs strongly defended the role of the Northern Board and it’s work. A motion from St. Joseph’s that would require a goalkeeper to kick out the ball within 15 seconds of placing the ball on the kicking tee was passed and there were other motions with regard to underage competitions up for discussion and they will be raised again in the new year. Kilmore had a motion that would change the format of the All-Ireland SFC and introduce a second tier competition, and that was passed. That will go to Congress in early 2016, and a motion from St. Dominic’s that would increase the number of regraded players from four to six was also carried.

The elections There were four elections as follows: Vice Chairman: Sean Flanagan 64, Padraig Naughton 78 (elected). Treasurer: Seamus Maher 74 (elected) Joe Gilligan 71. Connacht Council (two positions): First count: Michael McGuire 32, Seamus Regan 18, Sean Mullaney 44, Anthony Flaherty 46, Regan eliminated. Second count: Michael McGuire (+4) 36, Sean Mullanney (+10) 54, Anthony

Flaherty (+4) 50. Mullaney and Flaherty (elected). Central Council: John Corcoran 88, Noel Collins 57. 2016 Executive: Chairman: Seamus Sweeney, Vice Chairman; Padraig Naughton, Secretary: Brian Carroll, Assistant Secretary: Valerie Murray, Treasurer: Seamus Maher, Assistant Treasurer: Seamus Nugent, Development Officer: Thomas Murray, Coaching Officer: Sean Kilbride, Irish and Culture Officer: Michael Gunn, PRO Hugh Lynn, Connacht Council (2) Sean Mullaney and Anthony Flaherty, Central Council: John Corcoran.

be announced early in the new year. Mr. Leyden said that the Club Rossie project is only two years in operation and it was a resounding success and they had a lot of ambitious plans for the future.

Save Roscommon Ger Aherne made a presentation on behalf of the Save Roscommon Group. Mr. Aherne claimed that the

plans by Minister Kelly to put a large area of south county Roscommon into Westmeath for administrative purposes would have serious implications for the GAA in Roscommon and for the St Brigid’s and Clann na nGael clubs in particular. Mr Aherne said that the move, if successful, would affect up to 7,500 people and would have serious future implications for Roscommon

county teams. He appealed to clubs to put this matter on their agenda and to raise it will local public representatives and others of influence. He said he would be appealing to GAA people to attend a major public meeting on the issue which will be held early in the new year. Thanks to St. Dominic’s GAA club for their hospitality on Saturday at the convention.

The accounts The year’s accounts showed a surplus of €27,690 after an expenditure during the year of over €1.5 million. Gate receipts were up from €168,000 in 2014 to €194,500 this year while Club Rossie income was much the same at €391,355. It cost €717,097 on all county teams in 2015 which is up €33,000 on the figure in 2014. Most of the increase was accounted for under the travelling expenses heading.

Club Rossie David Layden made a presentation on behalf of Club Rossie and outlined plans for 2016 and included are a major fund raiser being organised in conjunction with the Roscommon trip to New York in May. There will also be another major draw in 2016 and other member benefits to

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Tommy Hoare, Noel Mitchell and Johnny Cox. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Gerry O’Connor, Declan Rock, Gerry Petit and Seamus Maher. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Gerry Coffey, Valerie Murray, Gerry Markham, Barbara Morris and Tom Ruane. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015

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Winds of change blow at County Convention < SEAMUS DUKE

The winds of change blew through St. John’s Community Centre in Lecarrow last Saturday as no less than nine new faces were elected or appointed on to the new Roscommon executive for 2016. There were a number of new faces elected unopposed, but there were four elections too and there was a lot of tension in the air as the votes were being counted. It was a proud day for Shannon Gaels as clubman Seamus Sweeney takes over as chairman from Mick Fahey who stepped down after his five years in charge. The departing chairman, in a wide ranging address detailed the progress that had been made on a number of fronts during his term in office which included the ownership of Hyde Park, the progress at the county training grounds at Runnabracken, and the progress of the county hurling and football teams. Mick Fahey also thanked John Evans for his work with the Roscommon senior football team and wished Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell the best of luck as they take over. Mick Fahey detailed the importance of coaching and he welcomed the appointment of a new coaching officer for the county (Sean Kilbride) and he thanked Willie Hegarty and Pat Compton for their work in the county in the coaching of young players. He also spoke about the need for Roscommon to improve ways of attracting income to run it’s affairs and he thanked Club Rossie which he said was “a huge success”.

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Michael Fahey and Seamus Sweeney, Roscommon County Board Chairman. Picture: Andrew Fox

He stressed the need for club players to get a proper fixtures structure and he welcomed the discussion document recently published by Padraig Duffy in Croke Park on this matter and the issue of player burnout. Mick Fahey noted the increased pressure that social media was now having on inter-county players in particular and said they must be protected from intrusion into their private lives as far as is possible. The new Chairman Seamus Sweeney said it was a proud day for him and his family and his club. He said that among his priorities as chairman would be the development the county training facility at Runnabracken, and the development of Dr Hyde Park. He also promised to tackle the growing problem of falling playing numbers particularly at underage level and he pledged to meet the clubs on that issue early in the new year. Padraig Naughton of Clann na nGael is the new vice chairman after he defeated Sean Flanagan in a vote. In the tightest contest of the day, sitting treasurer Joe Gilligan was ousted by Seamus Maher of Roscommon Gaels by 74 votes to 71. Sean Mullanney (Kilbride) and Anthony Flaherty (Athleague) were elected to represent the county at Connacht council level while John Corcoran will be the new Roscommon delegate on the central council. Hugh Lynn of Éire Óg is the new PRO after replacing Colm Bierne, who served his five year term. Thomas Murray takes over as Development officer (from Hugh Lynn) and Sean Kilbride (St. Brigid’s) is the new coaching officer.

Kielty’s killer blow sees off Oran Dermot Hughes Cars U-21 Division Two FC Final Elphin 3-7 Oran 1-10 A goal from Elphin attacker Austin Kielty in the 56th minute proved decisive as Elphin edged past Oran in this highly competitive and well-contested Division Two U-21 final played at Kiltoom last Sunday. Oran were the pre-match favourites, but Elphin, who had to play almost 40 minutes with 14 men after they had John King sent off in the first half, played some superb football to snatch the title at the death. Goals from Michael Gunning (incredibly Oran’s only scorer), and Adrian Murray saw the sides go in level at half-time at 1-3 apiece. John King had been sent off for an off the ball incident in the 21st minute by referee Marty Parker. Adrian Murray scored a second goal on the restart but Gunning’s superb accuracy from frees ensured that Oran were always in contention. The sides traded points three times as the excitement rose and a draw looked a likely outcome until Austin Kielty struck with a thunderbolt from 20 metres to give his side the title four minutes from time. Shane Killoran, Austin Kielty and Adrian Murray were outstanding for the winners while Cathal Kenny and

a stunning performance from Michael Gunning were the stars for luckless Oran on the day. Elphin: C Lenehan; D Lee, C Sweeney, G Higgins; L Mollahan, C Brady, J King; D Beirne, S Killoran (0-1); N Lenehan, A Kielty (1-1), C Beirne; J Beirne, A Murray (2-1), C Fox (0-4). Sub: D Shanagher for C Beirne. Oran: P Bandon; S Casey, J Casey, L Cuddy; E Concar, C Kenny, J Gunning; J Regan, G Keenan; R Earley, J Earley, K Whyte; D Keane, M Gunning (1-10), C Casey. Sub: J McNamara for J Earley. Referee: Marty Parker.

Ciarán’s too slick for Glavey’s Dermot Hughes Cars U-21 Division Three FC Final St. Ciarán’s 1-15 Michael Glavey’s 0-6 A slick St. Ciarán’s side were too strong for a gallant Glavey’s in this Division Three U-21 final played at Mulhern Park in Fuerty last Sunday. Ciaran’s scored a first half goal through Enda Conneran, and by halftime they led 1-5 to 0-3. Christy Leahy, Enda Conneran and sub Darragh Mullen were especially

GAA Results Dermot Hughes Cars U-21 A Football Championship Final Clann na nGael 2-18 Boyle 0-5 Dermot Hughes Cars U-21 B Football Championship Final Elphin 3-7 Oran 1-10 Dermot Hughes Cars U-21 C Football Championship Final St. Ciaran’s 1-15 Michael Glavey’s 0-5 Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 B Football Championship Final Kilmore-Shannon Gaels 1-13 Western Gaels 0-8

GAA Fixtures Saturday, December 19th Senior Inter-county Challenge Match At Kiltoom: Roscommon v Laois. 7.30 pm Sunday, December 20th Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 A Semi-Final At Woodmount: Padraig Pearses v Clann na nGael. 1.30 pm

prominent for Ciarán’s as they pulled away in a one sided second half. Cian Ruane, Conor Hussey and Luke McDermott did well for Glavey’s who were outclassed on the day. Best for the winners were Aengus Lyons, Shane Dowd, Philip Neilan, Dylan Keaveney and Christy Leahy. St. Ciarán’s: D Keaveney; P Neilan (0-1), W Boyle; J Brennan (0-1), B Mullen, A Whyte; A Lyons (0-1), S Dowd (0-4); T Clayton, M Browne, C Leahy (0-3); K Gavin (0-1), C Leahy (0-3). Subs: D Mullen (0-3) for Browne, O Lyons for Clayton, C

Gore for Boyle, M Ward for Whyte, J Neilan for Leahy. Michael Glavey’s: R Mannion; N Morris (0-1), J Brennan; D Frayne, C Ruane, L Coll; C Hussey, M Nevin; L McDermott, S Burke (0-2), A Morris; T Murphy, R Murphy (0-2). Subs: L Cregg (0-1) for Brennan, D Fagan for Nevin, G Browne for A Morris, E Coyne for Coll, M Nevin for R Murphy. Referee: T Bruen.

Kilmore/Shannon side win battle of Gaels Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 Division Two FC Final

Kilmore/Shannon Gaels 1-13 Western Gaels 0-8 A 12-minute period at the end of the first half and the beginning of the second half, during which the amalgamated side kicked nine points without reply, was the key to this entertaining U-20 final played at Ballyfarnon last Sunday. Western Gaels were the better team for most of the opening half. The impressive Matthew Burke scored a goal for the winners, which put them in control but it was only briefly.

However four points in a row before half time left Kilmore/Shannon Gaels ahead by 1-5 to 0-6 at half-time. John Gannon and Matthew Burke were prominent as Kilmore/Shannon Gaels continued to dominate on the restart and by the 38th minute they led 1-10 to 0-6 and it proved a decisive lead. The sides shared only four points in the final twenty minutes of play. Best for the winners were John Gannon, Matthew Burke, John Donohoe and Shane McDonnell. Meanwhile Conor Casserly, Niall Higgins, Sean Conry and Aidan Dowd were most prominent for Western Gaels. Kilmore/Shannon Gaels: D Cox; M Mulvey, C Burke, F Doyle; S McDonnell, D Marron (0-1) B Connellan; M Burke (1-3), J Gannon (0-5); O Viluckus, C Harman, B Donohoe; C Earley (0-2), M McDermott (0-1), J Donohoe (0-1). Subs: D O’Dowd for Connellan, P Doyle for B Donohoe, D Beirne for Viluckus, G Dolan for Harman. Western Gaels: C Sampey; L Mahon, B Morahan, J Devine; T Devine, S Conry (0-1) C Dowd; A Dowd (0-1), J Duffy; C Kelly, N Higgins (0-2), C Casserly (0-2); J Higgins (0-1), S Carroll, D Kennedy (0-1). Subs: D Cafferky for Carroll, J Brady for T Devine. Referee: Seamus Regan.

Roscommon People Friday 18 December 2015