2015 12 25 by Roscommon People

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

Christmas Arrangements The next issue of Roscommon People will be published on Thursday morning, 7th January 2015. The office of Roscommon People at Abbey Street, Roscommon, will be closed from Monday 21st December and will re-open on Monday 4th January.

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

news@roscommonpeople.ie sport@roscommonpeople.ie advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

The Editor and staff of Roscommon People wish everyone a Happy, Holy and Peaceful Christmas and sincere best wishes for a Healthy and Successful New Year.

25 December 2015

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 457

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

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For a Free consultation call PADRAIG EGAN (087) 381 4886 Christmas is coming! Pictured in Scoil Mhuire Convent Primary School on Friday were Gabrielle Campos, Sophia Doorley, Anthony Piotrak, Melissa Parker, Seán Óg Daly, Mhairi Lennon and Mikie Daly. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

Painting Services Professional Painters & Decorators Stephen Reynolds (086) 1987023 Enda Hoban (087) 2739726 Season’s greetings and best wishes for 2016 from

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Heroic Civil Defence work continues… Civil Defence volunteers pictured that were involved in the evacuation of persons and property from homes in the south Roscommon area in recent days. Pictured (l-r) Michael Fox (Fourmilehouse), Willie Treacy (Kilrooskey), Officer Ray Dunne (Elphin), Andrew Fox, (Knockcroghery) and Tom Fallon (Kiltoom). Missing from the picture in Damien Ennis (Kiltoom).

48 sheep drown in Kiltoom ﬂood SHIRLEY SPELLMAN Season’s Greetings Thank you for your custom in 2015

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Farmer ‘distraught’ after tragedy < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Extreme flooding in south Roscommon caused heartbreak for one farmer last week when 48 of his sheep drowned. The inclement weather has resulted in difficulties for many farmers, with vast tracts of land submerged in water and thousands of euro worth of fodder lost, but this incident was the first known death of livestock recently. It occurred last Monday at Hill of Berries, Kiltoom, near Lough Ree. John Hanley, the Roscommon chairman

of the Irish Farmers’ Association, said: “The farmer had 63 sheep in the group; 48 of them drowned. “The sheep were on a bit of high ground. The lake must have risen very fast…and the sheep got trapped, got disorientated with the water. The water must have come in so fast that they weren’t able to get out again.” The financial loss to the farmer was around €5,000. Mr Hanley visited him last Wednesday and said that the tragedy had plunged him into grief. “He is very distraught,” he said. “He just wasn’t in a good place at the time.” Mr Hanley said that it wasn’t just a matter of monetary loss that was distressing, but also the stress that such an incident can cause.

Cattle valued at €7,000 stolen at Arigna < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

We wish all our customers and friends a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all at

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Four top quality cattle, with a total value of €7,000, were stolen from a farm at Arigna last week. Between 10.30 pm on Thursday and 4.30 am the following day, the animals were stolen from a shed in the Glossdrummen townland on the Roscommon/ Leitrim border. Two of the animals were in-calf heifers – a red limousin cow and a Belgian blue limousin cross – the others were a shorthorn cow and short-horn weanling cross. John Hanley, the Roscommon chairman of the Irish Farmers’ Association, said that the farmer involved was devastated. “This is the second time this happened to him,” he said. “He had sheep stolen a few years ago.”

This is merely the latest in a series of livestock thefts that have occurred in Co. Roscommon and further afield. Mr Hanley said that he believed the thieves had local knowledge of the area. “These people don’t just go in without some local knowledge of the area or where the cattle are,” he said. He urged people to be vigilant and note suspicious activity in their areas. “If they see a strange car or jeep or anything in their area, just take note of the number plates,” said Mr Hanley, adding that people who have such suspicions could take photographs with their mobile phones. Anyone with information in relation to the Arigna incident has been asked to contact Castlerea Garda Station on 0949621630.

A Poem for Christmas Destination Migrants we, on the Sea of Life All Homeward Led by the Child of Light! - Fr Cornelius Mullaney

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

Funny Christmas Sayings For Christmas this year your gift will be a donation in your name into my bank account. Dear Santa, for Christmas I want a fat bank account and a thin body. Please don‘t confuse it as you did last year. The office Christmas party is a great opportunity to catch up with people you haven’t seen for twenty minutes. Why is Christmas like a day at the office? Because you do all the work, and the fat guy in the suit gets all the credit. Aren’t we forgetting the true meaning of this day - the birth of Santa? – Bart Simpson Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people only once a year. Christmas is a state of mind and that special feeling that only comes with an empty bank account. The one thing women don’t want to find in their stockings on Christmas morning is their husband – Joan Rivers. Christmas is a time when you get homesick, even when you’re home. Christmas is a time when everybody wants his past forgotten and his present remembered. The three most terrifying words to read on Christmas Eve: “Some assembly required.” Christmas is the one time you get to experience all the excitement of rush hour traffic in the shopping centre carpark. Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall.

Happy Christmas and Best Wishes for 2016 from all at Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors! 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 25 December 2015

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Liam McMullen: ‘Don’t be fooled by promises to restore A&E’ Top Consultant Surgeon Liam McMullen says he has apologised to ‘vilified’ Frank Feighan – and issues pre-election warning to voters All the current opposition parties and Independents know this, but still quite shamelessly promise voters that they will restore the A&E to Roscommon Hospital, knowing that promise to be pie in the sky. Even for Irish politics, this is a new level of abject cynicism. Voters should not be fooled. Don’t listen to trite promises. Finally, when I angrily wrote what I thought was a private email to Minister Varadkar after the Prime Time expose in autumn 2014 on ambulance response times, which was subsequently FOI’d by your reporter, I did not foresee that the phrase ‘we are to be thrown to the wolves’ would be used by others, including politicians, to personally denigrate Frank Feighan. I regret this deeply, it was never my intention. I have apologised to him privately and now do so publicly. I wanted only to rebuke the Minister for the very poor response times in Co. Roscommon subsequent to the closure of the A&E.

Letter to Editor Dear Editor, I would like to publicly thank Deputy Frank Feighan for his unrelenting efforts in getting the new twin endoscopy suite for Roscommon Hospital. In the depth of the recession in 2011 he was key in getting €5m to build the project, key in combating the strenuous efforts of those in the various planning areas for such a project, who were determined not to let this money be spent in Roscommon, and key recently in getting approval for the staff to run the unit. This is exactly the type of development (and also the rehabilitation unit which is in the pipeline) that should be occurring in a level 2 hospital. However, the praise for him has been very muted. Perhaps this is due to the A&E debacle for which Frank Feighan has been politically destroyed but also, quite unfairly, personally vilified. This latter is a nasty and ugly turn in Irish politics. I would warn all voters to ask those

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Liam McMullen’s ‘thrown to the wolves’ email to Health Minister Leo Varadkar (left) was not meant to lead to denigration of Frank Feighan (centre)

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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Roscommon-born Fr Gerry O’Rourke greeted by Pope Francis < PAUL HEALY

When I had the pleasure of meeting a remarkable Roscommonborn priest recently, he had to be prompted into telling me that, within days, he would be having his own audience with Pope Francis. And it came to pass on Monday, 23rd of November last, as our photograph shows. Fr. Gerry O’Rourke, who was born in Ballyfarnon and spent his childhood in Roscommon town, was greeted by Pope Francis and had the honour of celebrating Mass with the Pontiff. Speaking to me during a visit ‘home’ from America last month, Fr. O’Rourke said that he considered it “an unbelievable honour” to have been invited to Rome to meet the Pope. Fr. O’Rourke, who celebrated his 90th birthday in May, is a very highly-regarded figure in the Catholic Church in the USA. He is based in San Francisco and continuing his good work. Throughout his priesthood he has worked tirelessly and very often in a pioneering way in the area of reconcilation of people of different faiths and backgrounds in troubled parts of the world. A nephew of the legendary Dan O’Rourke, Fr. Gerry is very proud of his Roscommon roots. A lengthy interview which he gave to the Roscommon People in November can be read in our digital edition (see www.roscommonpeople.com).

See our column on page 2

Pope Francis with Fr. Gerry O’Rourke.

Fun for all! Runs, walks and swim over festive period < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

For those wishing to blow off the cobwebs over the festive period, there is no shortage of runs, walks and swims throughout Co Roscommon. The 12th annual Roscommon Town Christmas Goal Mile will start at 1.30 pm from the Square on Christmas Day. The same day, around 30 hardy souls will leap into the icy waters of the Shannon at

Pictured in C&L Cinema and Leisure on Friday night were Evan and Leah Gallagher and Shannon Moran. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Roscommon Music School Athleague, Roscommon. Tel. 090 66 63696 / 089 4971357 Everyone is catered for at Roscommon Music School. All ages, from 4 to adults, are catered for. Disability not a problem. Students can do exams or learn for fun. They can learn to read music or learn to play by ear. We have been preparing students for Leaving/Junior Cert for over ten years and all have got either A or B performance grade. Many of our students have gone on to study music at Degree Level. Head Teacher Ian Thistlethwaite has a BA Hons Degree in Music and a HDip in Music from the University of Wales, along with many years teaching experience. He is an accomplished trad and folk musician and features regularly in the top 20 folk chart. He has played first Violin with the University of Wales Concert Orchestra

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Stephen’s Day – the 21st annual Barrie Harris Memorial (10k) Walk at Creggs at 12.30 pm, and the Ballintubber St Stephen’s Day Walk/Run at 1.30 pm. There are 5k and 10k distances for this event, which starts and finishes at the west Roscommon village. Finally, on New Year’s Day, the 12th annual Leitrim Goal Mile will take place at Bornacoola GAA pitch, near Rooskey, at 2 pm.

Gardai in warning over drink-driving < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

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Lanesboro at about 12.30 pm in an annual event. For those who aren’t quite up for the swim, the 25th annual run/walk will take place from nearby Newtowncashel to Lanesboro, also on Christmas Day. The walk will start at 11.45 am, while the runners will set off a half an hour later. This event is in aid of the Multiple Sclerosis Society. At least two events will take place on St

There has been a large number of suspected drink-driving detections throughout Co. Roscommon since the Gardaí started their Christmas clampdown, which will continue until January 5. Checkpoints are taking place at various locations. Sgt. Aidan O’Brien, of the traffic unit at Roscommon Garda Station, said: “It involves mandatory checkpoints, with a concentration on early checkpoints, which catches a lot of people. “About 18 per cent of drink-driving checkpoints are the following morning. If you are going to drive the next morning, don’t drink the night before.” There will also be a number of highvisibility speedchecks on all of the national primary routes throughout the month.

“We are also doing a number of operations in towns and villages, where we would put two or three checkpoints,” said Sgt. O’Brien. The detection rate generally goes up every year, said Sgt. O’Brien. In all of 2014, there were 79 drink-driving offences recorded in Co. Roscommon.

Sgt. O’Brien said: “The advice to motorists is to slow down, never drink and drive.” He also advised motorists to ensure that they wear their seatbelts and not use any kind of electronic device in the car that distract them from driving, such as mobiles, iPads, etc.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

NewsPeople

Imagine…perfect beginnings at Hodson Bay Hotel At Hodson Bay Hotel, near Athlone, it is the little touches that allow them to create the perfect moments for your wedding day to mark the beginning of your life together. As your family and friends raise a glass to you, their dedicated wedding management team will stand proudly by, ensuring no stone is left unturned to provide you with the perfect celebration. Hodson Bay Hotel has earned its reputation as one of Ireland’s leading wedding venues. Offering a spectacular location on the beautiful shores of Lough Ree, elegant banqueting suites,

excellent food and service combined with the wealth of experience and dedication of their team, Hodson Bay Hotel will strive to create the wedding reception of your dreams. They pride themselves on their superb cuisine and menu offering which is one of the most important aspects of any wedding reception. Their award-winning executive head chef Gavin O’Rourke and his team will make sure that no attention to detail is spared when preparing sumptuous meals for you and all of your guests with the very best of fresh local and Irish produce.

HYNES’ PHARMACY Castle Street, Roscommon. Tel. (090) 66 34147

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Roscommon’s largest stockist of luxury fragrances They are delighted to announce that their 2016 Winter Wedding Fair will take place on Sunday, January 3, from 3 pm to 6 pm. Come to meet their wedding team with over 22 years experience as one of Ireland’s top waterside wedding venues. Meet their range of exhibitors from photographers

and bands, to florists and videographers, and choose that perfect wedding cake! Sample their wonderful wedding menu with a complimentary tasting, where you can meet our Gavin and his team. Be inspired by the wonderful fashion show in association with Catwalk Model Agency, with an ar-

ray of wedding party and guest attire. Finish the day with a live showcase by the Bentley Boys; this is an event not to be missed! For further information on all of our wedding packages, please contact our wedding co-ordinator Lisa Wykes on 090-6442000 or weddings@hodsonbayhotel.com.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

NewsPeople

‘Enormous practical and moral challenges for New Year’ A Christmas Message Bishop Kevin Doran One of the classic images of Christmas is that of the Holy Family going from door to door in Bethlehem, looking for a place to stay. Looking back over recent weeks and months, this is an image that challenges us all this Christmas. Instead of the face of Joseph and Mary, framed against the night sky, we see the faces of refugees from the Middle East, of our own homeless people and indeed of our neighbours in Athleague and Athlone who have had to leave their homes due to the recent flooding. These are enormous practical and moral challenges for the New Year. While government has a responsibility for the common good, the priorities of government tend to be guided by the moral compass of the public. As Christians, we are well placed to bring the social message of the Gospel to bear on all the important challenges

of our society. I encourage all of our parishioners, alongside their own personal charitable response, to be politically active in a constructive way. During 2016, we will mark the Centenary of the Easter Rising, with its proclamation of an Irish Republic. It is only honest at this distance to acknowledge that many people including Church leaders distanced themselves from the Rising. Whatever reservations there may have been at the time, it does seem clear however that, alongside their courage and idealism, many of the leaders of 1916 were people of faith. The proclamation begins “In the name of God” and ends by invoking the blessing of God. The poetry of both Pearse and Plunkett is deeply religious. At this Christmas time, the words of “Christ’s Coming” by Padraig Pearse have a particular resonance: I have made my heart clean to-night As a woman might clean her house Ere her lover come to visit her: O Lover, pass not by! I have opened the door of my heart Like a man that would make a feast For his son’s coming home from afar: Lovely Thy coming, O Son! It is significant perhaps that, in the

coming Centenary year, we in the Catholic Church are also celebrating a Jubilee of Mercy. The Door of Mercy is a symbol of welcome and of homecoming for Catholics. There seems to be no reason why faith in God should be in any way at odds with a modern democratic republic. Ultimately, it comes down to whether the people of the Republic have “opened the doors” of their hearts to God. Good Christians will always be good citizens. The idea that a Republic would acknowledge God does not mean, of course, that Catholicism or even Christianity should take precedence over other faiths or sincerely-held beliefs. But the religious freedom, which is the mark of any true democracy, obviously includes the freedom of the majority as well as the freedom of the minority. In 2016, as we celebrate the Centenary, we may need to reflect more carefully on what it means to “cherish all the children of the nation equally”. In wishing you all the blessings which come with the birth of Christ, I pray that in this coming year, the Spirit of Jesus, which is a Spirit of service and sacrifice, of healing and forgiveness, of justice and peace, will come upon our Church and upon our whole society. Happy Christmas.

‘Instead of the face of Joseph and Mary, framed against the night sky, we see the faces of refugees from the Middle East, of our own homeless people and indeed of our neighbours in Athleague and Athlone who have had to leave their homes due to the recent ﬂooding’

Bishop Kevin Doran.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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Paws on Earth Cynic Gal

Shelly Madden

There comes a time in your young adult life when you realise what the important things are. You begin to envision your future and who might be play the integral roles in your potential family. You feel your biological clock ticking and you wonder if you might be ready to take the next step. Could you be responsible for another being? A significant addition to your relationship? Guys, I think I’m ready. I’m ready for a dog. Why choose a puppy over a baby? Dogs require care and attention but not nearly as much as a human infant. You can lay down newspapers in the kitchen and leave your dog there for an hour or two, without having protective services on your ass. They won’t resent your very existence as they get older; if anything, their loyalty will deepen. And they won’t bleed you dry. Dogs are very cheap! Once you tackle the initial costs of a licence and vetting, all you need is food and a chew toy. They’re generally over-excited at the littlest of treats, which makes them easy to please. If in doubt, just let them go outside just to come inside again.

Why not opt for a dog over a sparkly engagement ring? Think about it – there is a romantic fever attached to festive proposals, but what happens when the cold harsh light of January hits you like an icicle to the brain? Cold feet will be both a literal and figurative reality. I’d much rather have a German shepherd nestling by my side than a Monica demanding in shrill tones for my input on her regimented seating plan. For the intimate wedding with 300 guests. Romeos, you have been warned. A wife is for life.

Come to think of it, a dog pretty much trumps every traditional Christmas present. New iPhone? It will be obsolete in a few months whereas your dog won’t need an upgrade. Fluffy socks? Magical as they are, they lose their softness after about two washes but your dog will retain his furry goodness, making him the perfect toe-warmer. A bath set? WE NEVER USE THEM. I do not know one person that takes regular baths and even if they do, I highly doubt grapefruit scented glittery fizzy bubble bomb is an absolute necessity each time. Instead, you can bathe your dog, which I’ve heard is great craic. (Naturally, it goes without saying that the recipient will keep the dog and not allow it to meet the fate of countless other Christmas puppies.) For the record, I don’t want a Chihuahua or a terrier or anything that can fit in a handbag. I need a big fecker of an animal. I want a giant Labrador I can dance with, or an Irish Wolfhound I can dress up in a top hat and have fake weddings with. Seriously, big flashing message to S.O. – if this isn’t recognised as the biggest hint drop for my Christmas present, then I don’t know what is.

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

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

When

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

€1,000 Giveaway – THE WINNERS There was a tremendous response to the ‘€1,000 Voucher Giveaway’ competition jointly sponsored by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and the Roscommon People. Several hundred entries poured into the office of the Roscommon People (many more by email) late last week. Thank you to everyone who entered. The correct answers were: Week 1 – MJ Farrell’s; Molloy’s Bakery . Week 2 – Fleming’s SuperValu; Abbey Hotel. Week 3 – Hannon’s Hotel; ETL. Week 4 –

Timothy’s Londis; Roscommon Credit Union. The following are the ten lucky winners, each of whom receives a €100 voucher * Eva Greene, Rosville, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon * Gerald Mulreennan, Whitehall, Tarmonbarry * Mary C. Dalton, Tulsk * Anthony Dolan, Ardsallagh, Roscommon * Rachel Dwyer, Emlaghbeg, Donamon * Mary Kerrane, Lurgan, Frenchpark * Briege Ward, Strokestown Road, Ballyleague * Sinead Kennedy, Dysart

* Liam Noone, Tonlegee, Beechwood, Co. Roscommon * Rebecca Compton, Clooncagh, Strokestown Congratulations! Drawing the winners in the Roscommon Chamber of Commerce/Roscommon People €1,000 Christmas Voucher Giveaway on Saturday night were (left to right) Declan Molloy, President, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce; Paul Healy, Editor, Roscommon People; Caitlín McConn, Secretary, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Aidan Farrell, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce. Picture: Andrew Fox

Paul Healy on losing track of the days during the newspaper’s busiest time of the year; trying to remember to put the bins out; turning down millions of euro from a kind mystery man…and an oft-told seasonal tale on how Santa brings such festive cheer…

Some day or other(s)… Phew! It’s been a busy month. At the Roscommon People, we’ve produced a lot pages since the 3rd of December. It’s not bad going for a free newspaper with a small but very dedicated team. A lot of pages, and over 1,000 cups of coffee. Christmas, or more accurately December, is the busiest time of the year in the newspaper business. That and election time. Last week, we published as normal on Thursday morning. Now, during Christmas week, your Roscommon People comes to you on Monday morning. That meant we had to produce this issue in little over three days. Working long hours on Thursday and Friday, we set the process in motion. By 6 o’clock on Thursday evening, I was looking longingly at my first Christmas-related invitation of the year. ‘Cordially invited by Roscommon Town Team to join us for a reception in Roscommon Tourist Office/County Museum (celebrating the role of volunteers in our community).’ From our Abbey Street trenches, I could almost scent the mulled wine and tasty finger food down town, but unfortunately I couldn’t leave the office. Friday morning, back to work, back to cajoling our advertisers for early copy, back checking our emails, back ‘phoning our contacts, chasing news stories, compiling reports, designing pages. By mid-morning, breaking news – real domestic drama which stopped me in my tracks. The first potential crisis of Christmas. Did we put the bins out? What day is it? I went home, put out the bins that should really have gone out on Thursday night, crossed my fingers and the dog’s paws, and returned to the office. At Christmas time, you do lose track of what day of the week it is. Resume checking emails. For the umpteenth time this year, someone I don’t know is offering to put millions of euro into my bank account. Seemingly this guy, who lives in a war-torn country, has millions ‘trapped’ in a bank account. He wants to send it to me! It sounds too good to be true, but the person who has emailed me is insisting that

Happy as Larry: Larry Brennan congratulates Cllr. Eugene Murphy on winning Sunday evening’s Fianna Fail Selection Convention. Picture: Michael McCormack

it’s all above board. He has millions to off-load, I, bizarrely, am the chosen recipient, and all I have to do is get back to him, and, I guess, make the arrangements. Decision-time…Commitment to newspaper deadlines, or accept millions of euro into my bank account and retire? It’s no contest. There just isn’t time to avail of the kind offer; I move on to edit an email about Brussels sprouts. It’s Friday evening, and in the Roscommon People office, we’re all wilting. Now I’m even hearing strange sounds in my head. Music and merriment. This is too much pressure. But thankfully there’s an explanation: I catch a glimpse of Santa travelling up Abbey Street in his Santamobile; he’s ho-ho-hoing and Christmas carols are ringing out. Seeing Santa doesn’t speed up the process of finishing the paper for us, but still, it’s a reminder of the joys of the season. After a very late Friday night in the office, we’re back in again on Saturday…and the end is finally in sight. But we’ll leave a page or two blank for another day to include coverage of Roscommon’s first game under Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell and what promises to be an even more competitive joust; Murphy v Higgins in the Fianna Fail Selection Convention. By Sunday morning, Seamus Duke’s report on Roscommon’s comfortable win over Laois is

down on a page. Now it’s Sunday evening and Eoghan Young-Murphy and Mick McCormack have reports and photographs from the Fianna Fail showdown in the Abbey Hotel. Congratulations to Cllr. Eugene Murphy on his victory. He has travelled a long road; it is good to see persistence being rewarded. Here in newspaper-land, we’ve travelled our own long road recently. It’s been a busy month and a very busy few days. Everyone in the Roscommon People office is exhausted, but, as we prepare to begin our Christmas shopping, we’re delighted to have completed another year of publishing the Roscommon People. Thanks to our readers, advertisers and contributors for all your support. We’re taking a break next week. We’ll publish again on January 7th. That’s if we haven’t accepted that offer of millions of euro still trapped in a foreign bank. * You know you’re a certain age when that worry grips you. On Friday, the fear – the not knowing – was terrible. But, good news…the bins were out in time and were collected.

Ah…a Christmas story The old stories (yeah, I’ve written about the following before) are best. Before I started working in the newspaper busi-

ness in Roscommon, I did a few years in the newspaper business in Cavan. It was 1987. It was Christmas. It was an incredible scene. The Gardai had located a few Republicans after some high profile ‘incident.’ There had been searches in safe houses, in not so safe houses, and in fields and boreens. Now they had three men located and they were due in Cavan Courthouse for an emergency sitting. But this was not going down well with Republican supporters, including known IRA activists. A crowd of ‘protestors’ gathered outside the courthouse and the atmosphere was extremely tense. There was a big Garda presence and a big media presence, including the man from ITN in London. If the man from ITN could be there, myself and Ciaran Mullooly – at that time, the men from the Cavan Leader – thought it only right that we should be there too. Tension hung in the air. There were scuffles. I kept my notebook hidden and merged in with about ten heavily-bearded men, rueing the fact that I had shaved that morning. (I felt a bit self-conscious; by the time I had a beard, many years later, all these guys were on ceasefire). There was snow and sleet on the road. All traffic was diverted. Danny Morrison, renowned Republican, sat on the steps of the courthouse. It wasn’t a sit-in protest; he needed to change his socks and shoes. The protestors gave the Gardai lots of stick. The mood was menacing. The Gardai feared that supporters of the men in captivity would try to seize them once they arrived at the court. Everyone was wet and freezing cold but the man from ITN looked immaculate. Two hours went by. The ten bearded men beside men and the other hundred or so on the street and outside the courthouse wanted the three captives released. I wanted a pint. Cavan had been brought to a standstill. Then, all of a sudden, the crowds magically parted, the Gardai did that arm-waving manoeuvre they do, the bearded men went into a respectful reverse, and one vehicle – and one vehicle only – was allowed through. As the car parted the watching crowds, all of the night’s tension was suddenly suspended, and the driver waved and smiled. It was Santa Claus, looking even more splendid in his red suit than the man from ITN. Santa, with his great white beard waved and smiled, and the tough Republican sympathisers, with their darker, more militant beards, bashfully waved back. So, three ho, ho, hos for Santa, and his wonderful capacity to bring people together and spread some of the spirit of Christmas amongst us all!

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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Pictured at the Tulsk Christmas Fair in the Tulsk Inn were Sophie Earley and Lauren Shaughnessy. Picture: Andrew Fox

Ten kegs stolen from Frenchpark pubs Thieves raided two pubs at Frenchpark last Thursday and stole about €2,000 worth of kegs. A total of ten kegs were robbed – five from each premises – during the course of the day. The pubs’ owners only noticed they were missing when they counted stock in the afternoon. Anyone with information in relation to the incident has been asked to contact Castlerea Garda Station on 094-9621630.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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151 drug cases at Roscommon courts in just over two years < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

More than 150 drug-related cases came before the district courts in Co. Roscommon in a recent two and a half year period. Information provided by the Courts Service shows that, between January 2013 and June 2015, 151 cases came before the county’s four courts. The data, released under the Freedom of Information Act, shows that, in the first six months of this year, 27 cases appeared: seven in Ballaghaderreen, none in Castlerea, 16 in Roscommon and four in Strokestown. Only three of these – all in Strokestown – were sent forward for trial, while 11 resulted in fines and four were struck out. In 2014, 64 such cases came before the county’s four district courts: 18 in Ballaghaderreen, two in Castlerea, 26 in Roscommon and 18 in Strokestown. Four of these resulted in imprisonment – three from Roscommon hearings and one from Strokestown.

Eleven were struck out, while 18 were dismissed under the Porbation Act. In 2013, 60 drug-related cases came before the four courts: 16 in Ballaghaderreen, ten in Castlerea, 31 in Roscommon and

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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Murphy’s Law! CLLR. EUGENE MURPHY CHOSEN TO RUN FOR FF < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

fter 20 years of unsuccessful convention bids, Cllr. Eugene Murphy was selected to represent Fianna Fáil in a General Election yesterday (Sunday). He defeated his only challenger, Ballintubber man Seán Óg Higgins, in the Roscommon-Galway Selection Convention held in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town, on Sunday night. He won by a significant margin – 216 votes to 145 – out of a valid poll of 361. A further two votes were spoiled. In total, Cllr. Murphy secured 67 per cent of the votes cast. It represents a great victory for the Scramogue man, who has been the bridesmaid at so many Dáil conventions, most recently losing to Cllr. Ivan Connaughton in the race to be the party’s candidate in the RoscommonSouth Leitrim by-election in October 2014. The 56-year-old was been a councillor continuously since

Cllr. Eugene Murphy is congratulated by Cllr. Orla Leyden (left) and Cllr. Rachel Doherty (right) and is pictured earlier in the evening with Convention chairperson Barry Cowen and Sean Óg Higgins, whom Cllr. Murphy defeated. Pictures: Michael McCormack.

1985 – his rival, Mr Higgins, 26, wasn’t event born at that point – and has always harboured ambitions of becoming a TD. Until now, however, he was never able to secure a party nomination.

Sunday’s long-awaited convention was hastily organised and took place just five days before Christmas. Only 56 per cent of the 640 party members who were eligible to vote actually attended.

The convention was chaired by Laois-Offaly TD Barry Cowen, who told the crowd that the party’s directive was to select just one of the two candidates. The convention then convened

for about half an hour while the voting took place. When it resumed, Deputy Cowen declared the result, which was greeted with rapturous applause by vast sections of the crowd, which was not sur-

prising considering the number of party members who cast their votes in Cllr. Murphy’s favour. Cllr. Murphy was then deemed selected to represent the party in this constituency in the General Election in the New Year.

‘Let’s unite and put the rows aside’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Fianna Fáil councillor Eugene Murphy has urged the party to put aside their internal differences within Co. Roscommon and unite in the forthcoming General Election campaign. The party has been beset by difficulties locally over the past several months, not least a major dispute between Athlone Muncipal District councillors Paddy Kilduff and John Keogh that recently escalated into High Court proceedings being issued. There has also been much animosity in the region over the delay in hosting Sunday’s night convention after the candidates were nominated at the beginning of October. On Sunday night, Cllr. Murphy told party members to bury the hatchet. “I want everybody to unite,” said the 56year-old Scramogue man. “Whatever little differences or rows we have, let’s apologise. Let’s get on with the job.” Cllr. Murphy also expressed disappointment that the convention had not been held earlier, but said the party could still win a seat in the three-seat constituency. “We are in a serious fight to get that third seat,” said Cllr. Murphy. “We have huge opposition. And I think it would have been better if we had a Fianna Fáil candidate out at an early stage. But we are here now. We are rearing to go. “It is an extraordinary occasion for me to be standing here as now the declared and democratically elected candidate for Fianna Fáil in the upcoming General Election,” he said. Cllr. Murphy indicated that, at one stage during the long wait for a convention to be

held, he considered pulling out of the race. “It has been a long struggle,” he said. “It has been a difficult 11 weeks…I am looking forward to this General Election and returning the Fianna Fáil seat in this Galway-Roscommon constituency. “I am truly delighted to be now the standard-bearer going forward for the party.” He paid tribute to Seán Óg Higgins, his rival. He said that he personally phoned him recently to encourage him to stay in the race

because he felt it was important that party members had an opportunity to cast a vote in the convention. Cllr. Murphy also indicated that Fianna Fáil should consider reopening the emergency department at Roscommon Hospital if elected to government. “The issue must be revisited, in terms of putting a proper service back at Roscommon Hospital,” he said. “I admit it will be difficult, but we must fight.”

Cllr. Eugene Murphy and Seán Óg Higgins. Picture: Michael McCormack.

Higgins – ‘I’ll be back’

Eugene, Rian, Linda and Nadine Murphy. Picture: Michael McCormack.

Unsuccessful candidate Seán Óg Higgins has pledged to return to the political arena after he was defeated by Cllr. Eugene Murphy in Sunday’s night Fianna Fáil selection convention at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town. “Going forward for public office has always been on my mind. While I have been unsuccessful on this occasion, I will fulfil that goal in the future. “As a young person, I am part of a new generation which will help to shape the future of our country. I want to play an active role in restoring Ireland’s prosperity.” It is likely Mr Higgins will seek to represent the party in the 2019 local elections. On Sunday night, he said that he would like to offer his “sincere congratulations” to Cllr. Murphy and wish him all the best in the forthcoming General election.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

NewsPeople Cancer Care West Table Quiz The Organisers of the fundraising table quiz held in the Grove Lounge, Ballymoe in aid of Cancer Care West would like to sincerely thank everybody for making the event such a huge success. We would like to thank Anne Marie Connaughton for organising the Hamper raffle; Michael Keane scorekeeper; Michael Hanley Star Trophy for the trophies on the night; Jackie and Brid Connaughton for the use of their premises. Thank you all those who bought raffle tickets in advance and various businesses and people who donated money and spot prizes (too many to mention). Thanks to all our loyal friends/supporters who attended on the night and we hope everybody had an enjoyable night out. The total amount raised to date is €2,900. The presentation of the cheque to the fundraising team at Cancer Care West will take place in the Grove Lounge in January 2016.

Pictured are members of the Healthy Ireland Committee in the Sacred Heart Hospital. Back row (l-r): Mary Higgins, CNM 2, St. Catherine’s Ward, Mary Butler, Assistant Director of Nursing & HealthyIreland Coordinator, Siobhan Hanley, Senior Staff Nurse, Rehabilitation Ward, Ruth Dwyer, CNM 2, Our Lady’s Ward Dementia Care. Middle row: Josie Connaughton, HCS, and Sharon Small, HCA, St Catherine’s Ward. Seated: Loretto Farrell.

Sacred Heart Home staff ready to walk the walk! As part of the implementation of Healthy Ireland strategy, the staff in the Sacred Heart Home in Roscommon town are taking part in the upcoming Lecarrow Walking Club’s 4th annual walk. The fundraiser walk will take place from St John’s Hall, (on the N61), Lecarrow at 2 pm on January 3rd 2016. The Healthy Ireland Strategy aims to reduce health inequalities, protect the public from threats to health and wellbeing and create an environment

where every individual and sector of society can play their part in achieving a healthy Ireland. One of the goals of the Healthy Ireland Strategy is to improve staff health and wellbeing, thus ensuring Ireland has a resilient and healthy workforce. Over 80 staff and residents from the Sacred Heart Hospital have declared their support for the forthcoming collaboration between the Lecarrow community and the Care Home.

Over the last three years the Lecarrow Walking Club has raised almost €30,000 for various charities including the Sunflower Rooms in Knockcroghery National School, Cystic Fibrosis Midlands Branch, Mayo/Roscommon Hospice, The Irish Heart Foundation and St. John’s National School. Now this year, in association with Roscommon Sport Partnership, they have chosen the Patient Comfort Fund at the Sacred Heart Hospital.

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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Large crowd at rural crime meeting in Roscommon < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Over 150 people attended a public meeting on rural crime at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town, earlier this month. The meeting was held by the Co. Roscommon Joint Policing Committee, with the theme being ‘crime prevention in towns, villages and rural areas’. It was chaired by Cllr. Paddy Kilduff,

the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County, while a number of gardaí, including Ch. Supt. Padraig Rattigan and Sgt. Alan Roughneen, also spoke. They gave informative addresses, explaining some of the scams used by burglars. They also took questions from the floor. One contribution from the crowd was by Sinn Féin councillor Michael Mulligan, who said the some criminals were abusing the legal aid system.

Pictured at the Co. Roscommon Joint Policing Committee public meeting in the Abbey Hotel were Pat Murtagh, Director of Services, Roscommon Co Council; Supt. Fran Nicholson, Roscommon, Caitlín Conneely, Roscommon Co. Council and Kevin McBrien, Roscommon Town. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pictured at the Co. Roscommon Joint Policing Committee public meeting in the Abbey Hotel were, front, left to right: Chief Supt. Padraig Rattigan, Roscommon/Longford; Cllr. Orla Leyden, Cllr. Paddy Kilduff, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council; Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher and Supt. Fergus Treanor, Longford. Back: Cllr. Ivan Connaughton, Cllr. Maura Hopkins, Conor Carey, Bernie Kearney, Brian Nerney, Boyle; Pat Murtagh, Director of Services, Roscommon Co. Council; Caitlín Conneely, Roscommon Co. Council and Supt. Aidan Foley, Castlerea. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Stop smoking…that life you save could be your child’s As I chatted to my granddaughter’s very young and very enthusiastic and patient teacher…I was infuriated to witness a mother and father standing outside of the school carpark gates blowing their toxic cigarette smoke directly into their buggy-bound toddler’s face… Well folks it’s been a mad week in our house, what with having to get up in the middle of the night and drive for hours the other day (well hubby did the driving, I just nodded off and dribbled and drooled in the passenger seat until we stopped for coffee) just to get out of Roscommon due to flood waters causing multiple road closures. We finally made it to Dublin to dote on our granddaughter as she performed the part of ‘narrator’ in her school’s annual nativity play. I have to say her performance brought a tear to this very proud Nana’s eye – hubby, who is not normally prone to emotional outbursts – he’s a man Goddammit, was also moved to tears, but I think that was due to him being forced to balance his 6’2” frame on one of those miniscule kids’ school chairs; but I could be wrong. However, my festive mood was short-lived as, après play, the lovely parents’ association treated us to tea and coffee and some delicious homemade mince pies and cookies, and, as I had a chat with my granddaughter’s very young and very enthusiastic and patient teacher, congratulating her on a job well done, I was infuriated to witness a mother and father standing outside of the school carpark gates blowing their toxic cigarette smoke directly into their buggy-bound toddler’s face, yapping and chatting away

and appearing to be totally oblivious to the child’s wheezing, streaming eyes and obvious discomfort. So readers, this is why I’m absolutely thrilled to hear that those long-overdue regulations to put into effect the piece of legislation that bans smoking in cars that contain children has finally been revealed…sure it only took one year (after this law was passed) for our government to get its act together but at least now that it’s set to be in place as we enter 2016, I for one, a non-smoker, am dancing a little jig. Now while there’s always been plenty of information available regarding the risk of inhaling second hand smoke, it has continued to baffle me that some (I’m not saying all) of those people who do puff away, and especially parents and grandparents, and those in charge of caring for children, appear to be oblivious to the dangers – or perhaps they just don’t care – still continue to light up in front of kids. I mean, choosing to smoke and causing damage to your own health is one thing; you’re an adult, you’ve got a choice, you do what you like, and if someone smokes around me I just get up and walk away; I don’t apologise, I don’t even say excuse me, I just remove myself; but smoking around your vulnerable kids and destroying their health is just plain selfish in my opinion.

an Garda Síochána, any offender who is in breach of this law can be issued with a fine of €100 and rightly so. Look readers, as I said I’ve no right to judge anyone but come on, it’s a matter of common sense and decency and when The American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) who conducted a survey regarding the effects of third hand smoke, (smoke that lingers in places where smokers have previously been puffing away, and which hangs around MIRIAM KERINS on car and bus seats, at sporting events, in the chairs and curtains of a house or building, or even disgustingly, in the You see kids have no choice as to hair and clothing of those of us who whether or not they’re exposed to the do not smoke but who happen to be harmful effects of second hand smoke unfortunate enough to stand close to and are therefore depending on us, their those who do), has found this is also parents and caregivers to look out for damaging to our health, I have to say their general health and wellbeing; that upon reading their report, I will however it appears that as some people, now refuse to allow my granddaughi.e. the ones who puff into their kids’ ter anywhere near, not just smokers as faces are incapable of such basic and I have in the past, but places that allow decent behaviour, our government has smoking because, having researched been forced to step in and effectively this subject further, and finding that protect your munchkins from what is, I the frightening effects of second and have to say, tantamount to child abuse third hand smoke can also result in the occurrence of poor lung development, on the part of you, the smoker. Yes, let’s tell it like it is folks, if you’re heart disease, cataracts and lung cansmoking in the vicinity of your kids cer later in life it would only be a right you are intentionally and continuously selfish eejit who would put others in exposing them to a number of health their care at risk. And for those two dopes who were problems including asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia and cancer, now, (and smoking into their toddler’s face the far be it from Mama to preach) but other day, and for anyone parenting isn’t this information that should make a baby or a toddler, I think it’s worth every responsible parent who is also a mentioning that infants who are exsmoker, sit up, take note and give up posed to second hand smoke have a their dangerous habit? However, I am higher risk of getting ear infections, now relieved to know that the irrespon- tooth decay and according to the websible and selfish sods who continue to site www.healthychildren.org ‘Infants emit fumes into their kids’ faces will no have a higher risk of SIDS if they are longer get away with it and, as the new exposed to second hand smoke.’ So, this Christmas, when visiting ‘no smoking in cars while children are present,’ legislation will be policed by those rellies who like to light up after

From My Kitchen Table

the Christmas feast, make them aware that there are over 4,000 chemicals found in their cigarette smoke, forty of which are carcinogens and, while I do not encourage a family row…in fact I advise you avoid this at all costs folks, but for the sake of your vulnerable kiddies, wouldn’t it be wise for you to remove them from the smoker’s vicinity. And yes, I know it’s a thorny subject and tempers can become frayed, especially at festive family gatherings, (and if the outlaws are involved, well then all I can say is good luck to ya), but, at the end of the day, aren’t your children worth it. Also, if, like me, you’re animal lovers, I also want to alert you to the damage that smoke does to your pets. There’s evidence to believe that toxins in second hand smoke can cause allergies and nasal and lung cancers in dogs; malignant lymphoma in cats and respiratory, eye and skin problems in birds. Researchers also believe that cats living in households where there’s a smoker usually get carcinogens in their fur and daily grooming exposes the skin in their mouth to dangerous amounts of this toxin. If that’s not enough, even the smell of smoke can affect your pet, causing him to cough and possibly burn his eyes so if you’re a smoker who loves your kids and your pets, my advice to you this Christmas is to give them the lifesaving gift of quitting! And on that note I want to thank you all so much for reading my musings and ramblings, and for your wonderfully positive comments during the past year; I wish you all a happy and healthy Christmas and I look forward to seeing you all again in the New Year.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

NewsPeople Local school teams excel in ISTA annual Science Week quiz The annual Secondary School Senior Science Quiz was held on behalf of the Midland branch of the ISTA in the AIT Nursing building on Thursday, 12th of November during National Science Week. Roscommon was represented by teams from Colaiste Mhuire, Ballygar, Mercy Convent School, Roscommon, Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown, Castlerea Community School, Colaiste Mhuire, Ballygar and CBS, Roscommon. Mercy Convent School, Roscommon was represented by Katlyn O’Hara, Aoife Donoghue, Rachel Coleman and teacher Mrs. Teresa Hession. Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown was represented by Brian Neary, Michael Connor, Michael Stroker and Shane Suffin, Ailsling McGuire and Aaron Boland and teacher Seamus O’Donghaile. CBS, Roscommon was represented by Eran Farrell, Edward Clinton, Matthew McCourt and teacher Fiona Leavy. Castlerea Community School were represented by Rory BevanMolloy, Darren O’Connor, Sean Goodwin and teacher Yvonne Hanbury and Colaiste Mhuire, Ballygar were represented by Laura Mulrooney, Michael Naughton, Tara Kennedy and teacher Rita O’Connor.

Pictured is the team from Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown: Brian Neary, Michael Connor and Michael Stroker who took part in the recent Science Week Quiz at AIT.

Pictured is the team from Convent of Mercy, Roscommon: Katlyn O’Hara, Aoife Donoghue, Rachel Coleman and teacher Mrs Teresa Hession who took part in the recent Science Week Quiz at AIT.

Pictured is the team from Roscommon CBS: Eran Farrell, Edward Clinton, Matthew McCourt and teacher Fiona Leavy who took part in the recent Science Week Quiz at AIT.

Pictured is the team from Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown: Shane Suffin, Ailsling McGuire and Aaron Boland who took part in the recent Science Week Quiz at AIT.

Pictured is the team from Castlerea Community School: Rory BevanMolloy, Darren O’Connor, Sean Goodwin and teacher Yvonne Hanbury who took part in the recent Science Week Quiz at AIT.

The Harlow Family wish all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year. We thank you for your custom in 2015 and we look forward to serving you in 2016

The Central Bar

THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON

090 66 26468

Established in 1946

Anne Harlow wishes all of her customers and Merry Christmas and a Joyous New Year. Thank you for your loyal support in 2015 and I look forward to seeing you all in 2016

SignatureFlowers Signature Flowers Prop.: Anne Harlow

ST. ALBAN’S PLACE, ROSCOMMON.

TEL. (090) 66 25328.

A BOUQUET OF FLOWERS, THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS GIFT

Looking forward to our 70th Year in 2016

Say it with love this Christmas, say it with Interflora

Denise Harlow and staff wish all of our customers a Merry Christmas and a Peaceful New Year. Thank you for your custom in 2015 and we look forward to 2016.

Beauty Secrets Saint Alban Place, The Square, Roscommon

TELEPHONE: 090 66 25686

Established 1990 – Celebrating 25 years in business The perfect Christmas Gift – a Beauty Secrets voucher or a luxury Gift Set from Beauty Secrets

Conleth and staff wish all our clients a Happy Christmas and a Joyous New Year

CONLETH HARLOW & COMPANY

Solicitors Saint Alban Place, The Square, Roscommon Telephone: 090 66 25939. Fax: 090 66 27573 Email: conleth@charlowsolrs.ie

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

NewsPeople

Young family landlocked in Castlerea Public health nurse visiting baby by tractor < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A young family, with a newborn child, have been completely landlocked at their house in Castlerea recently because of deep flooding on the road to their house. The situation has become so serious that there are fears for the safety of their child, who was born prematurely, with the public health nurse having to come to the house by tractor. Joanne and David Flanagan built their beautiful house at South Park Demesne, Castlerea, in 2008. It’s located on a hill, but the road to it has been constantly liable to flooding. At present, the road is submerged in 4 ft. of water, while

the land either side of the road is submerged under in 12 ft. of water. The most recent incident started the day Joanne came home from hospital after giving birth to her premature child, Matthew, now three weeks old. “I came home from hospital on Friday, December 4, and that was the day of the storm,” said Joanne, referring to the notorious Storm Desmond that brought an almost unprecedented level of rainfall to parts of Ireland. “And then, the next day, the flood was a bit out on the road and then, on the Sunday, the road was totally covered with water. “I have been marooned in the house ever since.

“I am here two weeks, relying on a neighbour to come on a tractor to bring the public health nurse into the baby. “If anything happened the child in the middle of the night, we were frigged. Ambulance or fire brigade, no one could get to us. “I am only after coming out of hospital after spending seven weeks in hospital. I had complications with him.” Joanne and David have another child, Lily, who is four, but it has been a struggle for her to attend St Bride’s National School at Ballintubber recently. “The child missed a week of school – I kept her at home because it’s an awful lot of hassle on my neighbour,” said Joanne, speaking of the neighbour who regularly comes to their aid. “It takes him nearly an hour to come down through the fields in his tractor.” The scenario has caused prob-

lems for her husband, David, too, as he tries to maintain his daily job as a construction worker in Tuam. “I have to walk through the field in the morning over to the corner, with a light on my head naturally, because I leave the house at 6.30 am,” said David, a brother of MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan. Roscommon County Council has risen the road to their house a couple of times in the past, but that hasn’t solved the problem. Their most recent suggestion, Joanne said, was more radical. “The council wanted us to move out of the house, for health and safety reason, and they would get alternative accommodation for us,” said Joanne. “I wasn’t going leaving my house with a new baby – sure, God know where they would put us.” She was very critical of the local authority. “This is going on

The home of David and Joanne Flanagan, which is now landlocked by the recent Storm Desmond.

two weeks now and the council have done nothing for us,” she said.

Countdown to annual Leitrim Goal Mile in Bornacoola

Senator Kelly welcomes ‘reprieve’ for publicans Labour Party Senator John Kelly has welcomed the ‘reprieve’ that Roscommon publicans will benefit from in the New Year. A pilot scheme which will base rates on a pub’s turnover rather than its square footage will be introduced, after lobbying done by vintners representatives to Minister Howlin. The vintners representatives, James Tully from Ballaghaderreen and Eddie Creaton from Boyle were happy that Minister Howlin listened to their suggestions and they were able to highlight how a similar scheme had worked quite successfully in Limerick. “Footfall is down in most rural pubs,” stated Senator Kelly, “and as a result the rates system was glaringly unfair, and now, if pubs do pay more in rates it is because they have increased business”.

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Pictured are Eddie Creaton, Boyle; James Tully, Ballaghaderreen; Tim Broderick, Galway, and Padraig McGann, Galway along with Senator John Kelly, attending a meeting with Minister Brendan Howlin in Leinster House recently.

Further decline in Roscommon’s ambulance record < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

There has been a worsening of ambulance response times locally, with counties Roscommon, Galway and Mayo having by far the worst record in the country for all types of lifethreatening emergencies. Statistics released by the National Ambulance Service (NAS) under the Freedom of Information Act show that this county’s emergency service remains well below the Health Information and Quality Authority’s (HIQA) standards. According to HIQA guidelines, ambulances should arrive at the scene of life-threatening

The council could not be reached for comment on the matter.

calls (Echo and Delta) within 19 minutes in 85 per cent of cases. However, in August, in counties Roscommon, Galway and Mayo, this target was met in only 54.15 per cent of cases for Delta (non-cardiac life-threatening emergency) calls – by far the worst rate in the county. The counties’ record for Echo (cardiac-related life-threatening emergencies) was also abysmal: HIQA’s target was met in just 60 per cent of cases, which again was the worst in Ireland. These statistics suggest that Co. Roscommon’s ambulance record is deteriorating further. The target response time for all life-threaten-

ing emergencies was met in 62.5 per cent of cases in counties Roscommon, Galway and Mayo in February – but on only 57 per cent of occasions in August. There were 689 Echo and Delta calls made in these counties in August, the most recent month for which statistics have been verified. Further statistics released by the NAS show that extremely long ambulance response times for life-threatening emergences continue to be frequently recorded in Co. Roscommon. On June 8, it took an ambulance 1 hour 1:40 minutes to arrive at such a situation in the county; on July 7, it took 1 hour 3:27 minutes; on August 28, it took 1 hour 11:01 minutes.

Former Eurovision Song Contest winner Charlie McGettigan will be one of the special guests at the 12th annual Leitrim Goal Mile at Bornacoola GAA pitch, near Rooskey, on New Year’s Day. This event always proves very popular among people from north Roscommon and Co. Leitrim. Dedicated local man Noel Mahon has organised the event every year since its inception and, during that time, over €100,000 has been raised for the Third World charity. It has been confirmed that Mr. McGettigan will take part, as will Eimear Reynolds, who won the ambassadorial competition Face of Ireland in 2014. Charlie McGettigan sprung to international prominence in 1994, when (with Paul Harrington) he won the Eurovision Song Contest with the song ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll Kids’. The event will commence at 2 pm and, afterwards, entertainment will take place at The Copper Still Bar, Dromod. Noel said: “My brother Seán (well-known local musician) will take to the stage, along with the guests. Eimear and her brother Andrew are a fantastic duo and they will sing too.” An auction will also be held, with a number of very attractive items set to go under the hammer, including a Dublin jersey that is signed by the players who won this year’s All-Ireland Football Championship. Others prizes include a t-shirt signed by top Irish golfer Shane Lowry, a framed picture of Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher and accommodation to the Lough Rynn Castle Hotel, Mohill, and the Wineport Lodge, near Athlone. Noel, the organiser, is very appreciative of people’s support of the event over the years, not least his wife Mary, who assists with the organisation. If you are interested in participating, sponsorship cards can be obtained from Noel, who is contactable on 0872646931.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

NewsPeople

The scene at Michael and Sheila Browne’s house which was flooded by water in the early hours of Saturday, 5th of December.

‘We’ve been turned away like biblical family’ ‘Greedy landlords’ slammed as family conﬁned to one room < PAUL HEALY

Michael and Sheila Browne and their two small children are resigned to having to spend the entire Christmas in one room in their flood-damaged house. Having spent almost a fortnight searching in vain for temporary accommodation after their house was flooded, the young couple are now sleeping in their kitchen with their two sons. Having failed to secure accommodation after a frustrating series of contacts with Roscommon County Council, local auctioneers and “greedy landlords”, the family say they have been “turned away like that biblical family that all those with a home will be celebrating in four days’ time.” Michael and Sheila Browne have been renting a bungalow in the Kilbride area, near Roscommon town, for just over two years. They have two children, Viktor (6) and Michael (2). Viktor attends Fourmilehouse NS and the family have always been very happy in the area. Their current plight stems from the torrential rainfall of Friday night, 4th of December last. The young family went to their beds that night with no inkling

of the anguish the morning would bring. When they awoke, they immediately noticed that water was seeping into every room in the house. Stunned and scared, they had the presence of mind to begin salvaging as many items of furniture and clothing as they could. “It was like watching the Titanic movie” says Sheila, “the water was just slowly rising.” With the house a foot under water within a short time, the family had no option but to evacuate their home. Michael had to move his car away from the property which was rapidly being flooded both inside and outside. “Our landlord’s brother had to rescue us in his jeep” Michael explains. They left behind a house in which every room was damaged. The family had lost clothes, furniture, including beds, household goods and toys. Their house was the only one in the area that was flooded, as it’s in a low-lying location. The family of four moved into a single room with friends in Roscommon on the Saturday night. On the Monday morning they contacted the Council to see if they could rent a house on a short-term basis.

Michael: “The Council couldn’t give us a house for temporary accommodation and told us to enquire about the RAS (Rental Accommodation Scheme) with auctioneers and landlords. We then basically spent ten days searching and begging for a house to rent, but to no avail. The landlords – and estate agents in particular – refused to take RAS tenants…even though it guaranteed rental income.” Michael says the family were “left destitute by the floods and callous, greedy landlords.” They accept that some auctioneers had no suitable property, but claim they were led to believe that they would be getting a house as recently as last Thursday. When that didn’t materialise, they moved back into their flood-damaged home, and have been confined to the kitchen there since. “We are living in the kitchen because it is tiled…we have two mattresses on the floor of the kitchen and we are hoping the wet will not come through the material.” Sheila says the kitchen has been “cleaned and bleached” but that other rooms are still wet and damaged, with, for example, floor covering having had to be removed.

Above the kitchen (since dried out) in which the family of four are sleeping; on right, their sitting room, with floor coverings lifted and a dehumidifier ‘at work.’

The couple say their landlord and his brother have been very helpful. Their landlord is “doing his best but there’s only so much he can do, he can’t speed up the drying process.” They realise that a lot of work now needs to be done to repair the damage to the house and, with Christmas upon them, they are facing an uncertain future. Michael insists the family are not looking for charity or donations of any kind. “I will decline any offers as I still have some pride. If anyone wants to make a donation they can make it direct to the St. Vincent de Paul. “To be honest, the reason we have gone public on this is sheer frustration. We feel some people have been immoral.

We have a clean record as tenants. Now we have spent almost two weeks’ as homeless people. We were turned away like that biblical family that all those with a home will be celebrating in four days’ time.” “We didn’t own much, but we lost a lot” Michael says. Four days before Christmas, and physically and emotionally drawn from their ordeal, the family are uncertain about the future. But they do know Christmas will be spent in one room. They’ve moved their Christmas tree from their redundant living room and placed it in the kitchen. Sheila says: “We’ll have Christmas Dinner and try to make the most of Christmas, especially for the kids.”

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

He’s not the only one who’s grateful for a helping hand….

To you, our advertisers and readers…. a heart-felt thanks from all at Roscommon People

Wishing all of our readers, advertisers and correspondents a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year

The local paper • Please note that a contribution is being made to a local charity in lieu of Christmas Cards and Gifts.

Roscommon People Friday 25 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

A CHRISTMAS SCENE… Pictured in Scoil Mhuire Convent Primary School were Gabrielle Campos, Sophia Doorley, Anthony Piotrak, Melissa Parker, Seán Óg Daly, Mhairi Lennon and Mikie Daly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Norio’s Circular Road, Roscommon

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M. J. Farrell Jewellers, Church Street, Roscommon Town Phone: 090 - 6626233

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

CLASSIC Security Solutions Ballybride, Roscommon SUPPLIERS OF ALL SECURIT Y REQUIREMENTS

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As featured on the Late Late Toy Show

Christmas recipe with Tasty Christmas Sprouts (serves 4) Our chef, Alan Burns, reckons that this recipe will change the mind of even those not so keen on sprouts! They are a perfect accompaniment to your Christmas Day Castlemine Free Range Bronze Turkey and Dry Cured Ham.

INGREDIENTS: 250g Brussels Sprouts 1 Red Onion 100g Vacuum packed Chestnuts 2 rashers of streaky bacon 1 Orange 25g Butter

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Prepare the ingredients – this can be done the day before to minimise work on Christmas Day. …. Cut the sprouts in half and blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes. Refresh in ice cold water. Slice the red onion. Cut the rashers into lardons/strips. Segment the orange. Slice the chestnuts.

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Melt the butter, add the bacon and cook for 2 mins over a medium heat. Add the red onion and cook for 2 mins. Add the sprouts and chestnuts and cook for a further 2 mins. Remove from the heat and add the orange segments. Season to taste. Serve immediately. This dish will change your opinion of sprouts forever! And because Christmas Day is hectic enough, why don’t you call into Castlemine Farm Shop to get some of our seasonal products that will make your Christmas easier: * Turkey gravy made from roast turkey bones, vegetables, herbs and a little hint of orange * Glaze for ham – an aromatic blend of honey, mustard and spices that will take your ham to a new realm * Pork, cranberry & chestnut stuffing – cooked and ready to be heated * Roast root vegetables glazed with honey * Roast potatoes in dripping, infused with thyme and garlic – ready for your oven

Castlemine Farm wishes all its customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas.

Local support for Trocaire Christmas gifts

CHARTERED ENGINEERS

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

The Ideal Christmas Gift – Personalised Photo Gifts Pictured at the Lisnamult Residents Association Christmas Dinner were Claire Hulston and Georgia Geraghty. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon Credit Union are launching their lowest rates EVER! For a €2,000 €2,000, variable interest rate of 5.9% 5.9%, a representative APR of 6.05% 1 year For only €176.27 per month, total amount repayable €2,063.62. Cost of credit €63.62. Next members Car Draw is on 17th December 2015 so still time to be in with a chance of driving a new 161. CASH PRIZES ALSO ON THE DAY.

ROSCOMMON CREDIT UNION LTD

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The people of Roscommon have been praised by Trocaire for their continuing generosity at Christmas with the organisation revealing that €6,798 was spent on Trocaire’s gift appeal last year in the county. “Our Christmas gifts are a very important way for people here at home to help those in the developing world. They really do make a huge difference to the lives of people who just want a hand up and not a hand out” said Eamonn Meehan, Executive Director of Trocaire. He added “Donations from Roscommon towards Trocaire’s Christmas gifts have resulted in families being able to earn an income to fund schooling; women in Somalia are having healthy babies in Trocaire medical clinics and children receiving Trocaire school kits have the books and school fees they need for their education. I have seen the difference these gifts make on the ground. It is no exaggeration to say that they are life-changing.” Trocaire’s ethical Christmas gifts range in price from €5 to €250 and include everything from olive trees for Palestinian farmers (€5) to land for families in Myanmar, Honduras and Guatemala (€200) and support for women in business in Ethiopia (€250). The gifts can be bought online at trocaire.org, by calling 1850 408 408, in Veritas stores, selected Easons stores and in Trocaire centres in Maynooth, Co. Kildare; Cathedral Street, Dublin; Cook Street, Cork or King Street, Belfast. One4All Trocaire cards are also available in Post Offices countrywide. Priced from €15 to €100, 100% of the value of the card will go to buy gifts such as chicks, goats, school kits and water as well as funding Trocaire’s critical work.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

Just where did that tradition come from? < MIRIAM KERINS

he tradition of the hang-

ing up of the Christmas stocking over the fire – something that concerns me as a safety risk; the end of the bed is less of a fire hazard – has become popular in households across Ireland; across the world, in fact. I think it’s really cute that each family member has a specially monogrammed stocking embroidered with their own name – mine’s got ‘Obsessive, Controlling, Christmas Consumer’ which actually cost the ‘funny’ git who bought it for me a lot of money as you pay by the letter; but, okay, they’re right; I do get a tad bossy but somebody needs to be in charge of the fun! Anyhoo, have you ever wondered where this lovely little tradition of the Christmas stocking originated? Well wonder no more, because I’m gonna tell you a little story and, if you’re sitting comfortably, then I’ll begin. ‘Twas the night before Christmas, and, St Nicholas of Myra…now known to us as Santa Claus was travelling through a

little village when he happened to hear about a business man who was once quite rich but who had now lost his fortune. (And no, it wasn’t a village in Ireland during the banking enquiry and no, it wasn’t David – ‘we need the moolah’ – lol funny man…not! – Drumm), it was in a Galaxy far, far, away folks…but I digress; back to the story. Good old St Nick knew that this poor man had three unmarried daughters who had no prospects of ever leaving his home, because, unable to offer any husband who

would be willing to take them on, a decent dowry (money or property given by the father of a wife-to-be to her husband-to-be) there was a danger he’d never get rid of them meaning the entire family could suffer a life of utter shame – again, think poor aul down to his last ten million David Drumm and you get the whole poverty stricken picture; and pardon me a minute folks while I get out the world’s smallest violin to accompany me as I tell the rest of the little tale.

Well, feeling sorry for this poor father, Santa Claus, riding his sleigh, told Rudolph to do a drive by at the man’s house and, as he flew over the roof tops, he popped three bags of gold coins down the chimney which magically landed right inside the girls’ stockings which, as luck would have it, just happened to be drying overnight on the mantelpiece. Well, as you can imagine, the entire family were saved, as the girls used the gold from their stockings to attract wealthy husbands and become good little servants…sorry wives and they all lived happily ever after. This story was told again and again down through the centuries and it’s thought that this is how all the little children of the world came to hang their own stockings over the fireplace in the hope that Santa would also bring them gifts on Christmas Eve. The End. Now readers, I can’t verify this story and I’m sure there are many versions doing the rounds, but this is how it was recounted to me by my beloved Nana when I was a little girl. Just spreading the joy folks.

Anne Kelly’s

Goff Street, Roscommon

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Golf Links Road, (behind The Pepper Mill) , ROSCOMMON Telephone: (090) 66 25787 Closing Wednesday 23rd December at 1pm and re-opening on Monday 4th January 2016 at 9.30am Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and every good wish for 2016

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Pictured in C&L Cinema and Leisure on Friday night were Luke and Aisling Stephens and Finn Carroll. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

An Post staff pictured at the end of the last day at the old sorting office at the back of the Post Office. Picture: Andrew Fox

End of an era as sorting ofﬁce closes

It was the end of an era last month as the sorting office at the rear of the existing Post Office on The Square, Roscommon town, closed.

On November 14, the sorting and delivery of mail was moved to a new sorting office on Athlone Road.

Existing and retired staff gathered together at the premises on The Square to mark the historic final day’s operation.

Brendan Collins, Tony McGee and Seán Keegan (all retired) pictured at the last day in the sorting office at the back of the Post Office. Picture: Andrew Fox

FRANCES’ FINISHING TOUCHES

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

THE RED PARROT This Christmas Wednesday 23rd:

DJ Paul Clabby Saturday 26th: Pictured at the Lisnamult Residents Association Christmas Dinner were Jimmy Dennigan and Christy Noone. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Lisnamult Residents Association Christmas Dinner were Catherine Hannon, Des Doolin and Martin McDonagh. Picture: Andrew Fox

DJ Paul Clabby Sunday 27th: Music with

Loftie Fest Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year Hope to see you all – Going to be a wild Christmas!

Gift Vouchers Available

Pictured at the Lisnamult Residents Association Christmas Dinner were Patricia Morris, Annie Crean, Ann and Michael Naughton. Picture: Andrew Fox

The Management and Staff at Fleming’s Supervalu would like to thank their customers for their continued support during 2015, and wish everyone a Very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year. Fleming’s

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

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Music all over the festive season ALL LIVE sport shown

Pictured in Scoil Mhuire Convent Primary School were Julia Rodriguez, Una Feeley, Fiona Garvey and Roisín O’Brien. Picture: Andrew Fox

1916 Proclamation and ﬂag presentation in Scoil Mhuire History was made in Scoil Mhuire, Roscommon on December 9th when three army personnel from Athlone arrived in the school and presented the children with a copy of the 1916 Proclamation of Independence and the flag, which will be raised in March 2016 to commemorate the 1916 Rising. The flag was accepted by Julia Rodrigues, Jack Jordan McDermott and Fiona Garvey. The soldiers were welcomed by the Junior and Senior Infants who waved the tricolours they had made, as members of the school band played Irish music. All the other children gathered in the school hall where they sang A Nation Once Again and Officer Piggott read the Proclamation with the help of Róisín O’Brien from 5th class. The soldiers answered many questions for

the children about army life and explained their medals and stripes. They also explained the protocols attached to the flag. School principal, Dr. Úna Feeley, welcomed the Irish army representatives and related anecdotes from the time of the 1916 rising, including one about the arranged ceasefires of both sides while the park-keeper in St. Stephen’s Green fed the

Wishing our Customers, Staff, Suppliers & Friends a Peaceful & Happy Christmas

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Roscommon town native, Aife Feeley, pictured after being awarded a high achiever medal for musical theatre from the Royal Irish Academy of Music at NUI Galway last Sunday. Aife is a transition year student at the Convent of Mercy, Roscommon.

ducks. The names of some children who were enrolled in the school during 1916 were read out by 6th class pupils. The school, as part of a national project, will over the coming months, draw up its own proclamation. It will be unveiled during the Easter Rising commemorations in March. The presentation ceremony concluded with the singing of Amhrán na bhFian.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

Getting married Great wedding attire in 2016? with Donnellan & Co Now is the time to book your spring and summer wedding attire from Donnellan & Co, Main Street, Roscommon, where a series of new suits are now in stock. Donnellan & Co has established itself as one of Ireland’s leading retailers and has received numerous awards, including a Retail Excellence Ireland award for 2015. Situated in the centre of the county town, the store has made its mark as a tried and trusted provider of quality menswear and footwear. Indeed, this fine reputation has been built upon recently. Donnellan & Co stock a blue three-piece (suit) range in the formal department. Everyone is welcome to call into the store and view. They also stock an excellent collection of new suits to buy if grooms would prefer to purchase their wedding suit. Brands include Remus,

Lambretta and Magee, which are proving to be a very popular choice. The Donnellan & Co ethos is straightforward. Firstly, Donnellan’s provides its customers with the widest selection of quality clothing and footwear, the leading labels and the latest trends from the high streets of Europe. Secondly, Donnellan’s ensures its price tags are as attractive as everything else in store by negotiating firmly with manufacturers and agents. Thirdly, Donnellan’s provides a retail environment and a personal service – support and expert advice – to help visitors make the right decisions. For further information or to make an enquiry today, phone Donnellan & Co, Main Street, Roscommon, on 090-6626334, email eddiedon@eircom. net or log on to www. donnellan.ie

COMPETITION WINNERS Congratulations to Lara Humborg, Roscommon and Cian Hayes, Derrane who were the recent winners of a pair of Clarks Cica Runners from Donnellan & Co., Roscommon

Cian Hayes, Derrane

Lara Humburg, Roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

Pictured at the Lisnamult Residents Association Christmas Dinner were Maggie McDonagh and Bob McCormack.

Pictured at the Lisnamult Residents Association Christmas Dinner were staff from Greenfields Creche. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Lisnamult Residents Association Christmas Dinner were Kathleen Collins, Maureen Mulhern and Marian Costello. Picture: Andrew Fox

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

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

ROSCOMMON TYRE CENTRE Props: Aaron & Colin Mullally

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Pictured at the Lisnamult Residents Association Christmas Dinner were Anthony and Laura Doolin. Picture: Andrew Fox

MOLLOY’S MAIN STREET, ROSCOMMON Tel.: 090 6626120 or 087 6546512 NEW YEAR’S EVE OFFERS

Offers valid 3012.15 to 31.12.15 or while promotional stocks last

Corona Extra 355ml 12 Pack €3.04/ltr

McGuigan Frizzante €8.99 /750ml

Moet & Chandon €39.99 /750ml

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Roscommon People Friday 25 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 25 December 2015

Interview

Avril: One woman’s courage and < MIRIAM KERINS

Well, we’re now into Christmas week folks, a glorious time for those long-awaited and forensically-planned family gettogethers, in fact, as the song says, ‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year,’ and it’s also a week when women all across Ireland work hard to make the home a fun and safe haven for everyone, especially their kiddies. It’s also a week when I thank my angels for sending me a caring, loving and protective husband and for my happy and healthy family. However, tragically, I know too well that in some homes, behind the glistening fairy lights, behind the carefully wrapped presents and the Santa stockings that have been lovingly, carefully hung on the mantelpiece and behind that expertly applied concealer make-up, it’s a sad fact that many Irish families, in particular, women and their kiddies are harbouring a dreadful, sickening secret. They don’t want you, me, the neighbours, their friends or other family members to know that, appallingly, they are struggling to make it through the holidays and desperately trying to cope with the effects of a mean, vicious and vile abuser, a jumped up, tin-pot dictator who’s appointed himself the family’s chief oppressor (you’ve guessed it folks, I don’t suffer thugs

gladly, as one particular abuser I used to know found out to his peril) and some of those families are located right here in County Roscommon. Domestic violence knows no social class or culture nor does it know any boundaries; scarily, this means that none of us are immune. And so, it is with that thought in mind, this week, I’d like to shine a spotlight on one brave woman’s struggle and give you just a little, of what I hope, is a snapshot into her life. Her name is Avril D’Arcy, she’s an educated professional working in the high octane world of finance and she comes from a rural area of County Meath. Avril has agreed to waive her anonymity for this interview in the hope that her situation helps others. This is her story. At age 26, Avril, who was still grieving following the death of her beloved father – whom she describes as “the strong male influence” – the previous year, took the decision to move back home to care for her mother, whom she says “was obviously not taking my dad’s passing well so I moved back home with her and I suppose I was looking for an outlet and that is when I met my boyfriend but unfortunately I just stepped from one smothering situation right into another one.” Avril’s abuse at the hands of her then-boyfriend, first manifested quite early into the relationship, however,

even though she didn’t recognise it as abuse, she says she knew “something wasn’t right” when, bombarding her with text messages, her boyfriend would “get angry when I didn’t answer quickly enough then saying he wasn’t annoyed just concerned and worried about my safety when I didn’t get back to him. This worried me but people would say how lucky I was that he cared so much about me so I felt stupid, but I see now he was controlling me. He would also make plans way into the future that included me but he never consulted me, meaning all of my time was being tied up in these plans and in spending time with him and to complain to others about it seemed petty because they kept saying oh isn’t he a great guy” explains Avril. However, there was the issue of financial control. Avril’s abuser lost his job but somehow her entire financial situation became tied up in his, with her paying all of the household bills and him having control over the social aspect of the family funds. “He convinced me that this was a good way of divvying out the money and it was ‘our’ money when we had to pay bills but it was ‘his’ money when we went out socialising, meaning he held the cash, forcing me to ask him for money when I needed to buy myself something. I actually gave

CAP TO COME

him the money to hold when we went out because he made me feel that I was stupid and that I’d lose the money if I held it and of course anyone watching just thought,oh he is so generous the way he gives you money, but it was my money, he wasn’t even working! He would even

have control of my bank card and he’d take it and use it to pay his bar bills and he’d come back and announce that he’d covered the bar tab like he’d been the one to pay.” However, following an unhappy and abusive three years spent being controlled and manipulated by

this bully and his psychological and financial torture, Avril became the victim of physical abuse. “He closed a door on top of me and he knocked me into a wall” she confides. However, Avril didn’t hit back because, as is the case with most women who are abused, Avril says “my thoughts were not to resist but to minimise the physical hurt and I didn’t want to make the situation worse by hitting back. Besides it was never his fault it was always everyone else who was to blame. He was the Messiah who wouldn’t take responsibility for the negative things that happened in his life. He even blamed everyone else when he was sacked from his job, and living with him was a typical case of ‘gas lighting’ where he told everyone I was crazy” says Avril, whose situation is typical of most domestic abuse incidents. However, she is a little different and possibly more fortunate than a lot of women who live in violent, controlling environments in that she says luckily she wasn’t tied to this individual by marriage or children. “Thank God I’d no kids and could get away and completely cut the ties.” It was following a particularly violent second incident where her abuser knocked Avril into a wall that she decided enough was enough, that this was domestic abuse.“I forced myself into leaving; this was a line I had drawn…

that if it happened again I was leaving. I wish I hadn’t felt like I’d needed an excuse, I wish I’d left earlier but that’s the way it was.” Despite losing her apartment and, as she says, losing her life, having to resort to living on people’s couches for a long time, two and a half years later she says she has “finally got my life back,” adding, “I was quite outspoken as a younger person and this is what he liked about me at first, but he then tried to break my confidence. I also suffered from depression and anxiety as a teenager and when you’re in a relationship with someone and you love them you tell them these things about you but you don’t expect them to use them against you but I see now that it was conditioning, it was programming and I never told anyone about what went on ‘till I left him.” Coming from a rural background, Avril says she understands what women living in isolation or in small communities who may be suffering at the hands of an abuser go through. “You can kind of get stuck in situations. I grew up in the countryside so I know there is an extra element to feeling isolated and sometimes you can’t even get out for a cup of coffee or a chat with a friend but Women’s Aid were fantastic and have given me so much support and I would urge anyone continued on page 31

Supporting actions opposing violence against women

Pictures at the event were Patricia O’Reilly, Mary Ellen Mongan and Mary Mongan.

There was a great turnout for a morning of inspirational speakers to support the campaign ‘16 Days of Actions Opposing Violence Against Women.’ The event was orgainsed by the County Roscommon Traveller Health Programme, Roscommon LEADER Partnership. Later on after listening to the guest speakers, balloons were released outside in an act of solidarity with all those how have experienced abuse or violence. This international campaign has been running since 1991 and aims to help to break the silence around domestic violence with events happening in over 172 countries worldwide.

One in five women in Ireland experience domestic violence at some point during their lifetime. Domestic violence can affect any woman or man and the cause of domestic violence is the same across all communities and societies. Guest speakers included Tessa Collins of Pavee Point’s Violence Against Women Programme and Patricia O’Reilly from Roscommon Safelink, which provides information, support and counselling to women who have experienced domestic violence and abusive situations. Fiona Crean gave an informative talk on looking after yourself, which was followed by demonstrations.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Interview/Lifestyle

story of survival A

‘My rewarding journey… with Slimming World Charlie wins Strokestown weight loss title

continued from page 30 who is experiencing abuse to contact them. They helped me to become the survivor that I am and I wish I’d contacted them sooner.” Now, two and a half years later, Avril who is 32 and who remains single because, as she says, despite the fact she is feeling much better she wants to fully understand herself and get back to her old self, reveals she still doesn’t trust her own decisions when it comes to beginning a new relationship with another partner so wants to give herself time. “I was at the emotional level of a 17-year-old in that relationship because he’d really broken me down and it has taken a long time to reprogramme myself to understand that I am now a woman who is living my own life and making decisions for my-

self. I’m enjoying my independence and not having to worry about what someone else is thinking and doing. For the first time in a long time I’m looking forward to spending Christmas enjoying being myself.” At this time of year, in fact throughout the year but in particular during times when alcohol – which is not the sole cause of domestic violence but it doesn’t help matters – is plentiful; when finances are under strain and again, lack of money is not the cause nor is it a valid reason for someone acting like a common thug and battering or abusing his partner and family; but I would suggest to readers that we all have a duty to keep an eye out for each other. If know anyone that needs help, advice, is under stress or pressure and if there is any indication

While I know for a fact that the majority of men do not abuse women; that the majority of men treat their partners and their children with respect and are not violent towards them; the majority of men do not hit, control, but rather are kind, caring, nurturing and protective husbands, partners, fathers and grandfathers who cherish and protect their loved ones, and who are cherished and loved by their families in return; it’s a sad fact that during the months of October and November, i.e. in the run-up to Christmas, women in crisis are contacting Women’s Aid’s helpline because they are, according to Director Margaret Martin, “planning in relation to what’s to come, preparing for getting safety orders etc., and we work with them.” However, when I asked Margaret why her vital and wonderful service was closed on Christmas Day, she explained: “Women are really busy on Christmas Day trying to keep everything normal and a window of opportunity for them to make that call hardly ever occurs. When the kids are off school there is less contact from women because they may feel less able to talk openly and as you can imagine, calls can be quite distressing and women may need time to talk and get their

that they are about to become or are currently dealing with someone displaying a system of behaviours that is controlling their actions and/or feelings, then please, I would urge you to advise them to make that call, to take inspiration from Avril’s story, a story of survival, hope, bravery and courage and ring any of these numbers today: * Women’s Aid Ph: 1800 341 900 (open 10 am to 10 pm, 7 days a week, except Christmas Day). It’s a Freephone helpline. * Roscommon SAFE Link Ph: 071-9664200 (open Monday-Friday, 9 am to 5 pm). * Also on www.roscommonsafeline.com click on the ‘useful links and services’ button for a comprehensive list of contact details of other agencies that may be of help to you. * Dial 999 and call the Gardaí.

heads into that space in order to do it. “Sometimes women go for a walk with the dog or take a walk on their own and that’s when they ring us. We get calls from women locked in the bathroom in dangerous situations, that does happen, but it’s not always like a 999 call. “You see, an awful lot of women have been trying to make sense of what has been going on for a long time and one of the things about a helpline is that women know they don’t have to hold back, they don’t have to gauge our response, the helpline allows them to talk more freely. “You know when you’re carrying a lot of this in your head and you ring a helpline where someone listens without judgement and when you don’t feel you have to protect them by holding back details, then it can all start to fall into place for a lot of women.” Women’s Aid received 11,167 calls in 2014, all of which were answered and dealt with by their helpline. Please, I urge anyone reading this who may feel they are in crisis to make that call and if you are in an emergency and dangerous situation on Christmas Day when the helpline is closed (or at any time) dial 999 immediately.

hackney owner from Strokestown has recently been named as Strokestown’s Mr. Sleek – after losing 5 stone 6.5 lbs with Slimming

World. Charles Duignan (Charlie), 49, has gone from weighing 21 stone at his heaviest to 15 stone 8lbs since joining the Strokestown group, which is held in the Percy French Hotel. “I was really flattered that the other members chose me as their Mr. Sleek. As a man, joining a slimming club was a big decision and very nerve-wracking, but I can honestly say it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done and this is just the icing on the cake.” Charlie’s ‘big decision’ to join Slimming World came on 29th, June 2015 when, after nearly 10 years of being overweight, he says he knew he had to make a change. “My health was poor” said Charlie, “and cholesterol and high blood pressure were a worry. I could see that I was heading down the road of diabetes as it was already in the family and it was only a matter of time for me. “I’d heard a lot of people talking about Slimming World and I knew it worked, but I was still worried because I thought it would just be me and a roomful of women. But, everyone was so friendly and I felt right at home. I’m so glad I didn’t let my nerves stop me and I’d recommend Slimming World to everyone – men and women.” He began following Slimming World’s Food Optimising eating plan and made some simple changes. Gone were the high fat, high sugary foods for healthy home-cooked meals that Charlie’s wife, Rita, cooks up for him. Rita isn’t a member but finds it so easy to follow the Food Optimising plan to help Charlie and has encouraged and supported him every step of the way. Food Optimising encourages slimmers to fill up on satisfying yet healthy everyday foods like fruit and veg, lean meat and fish, pasta, potatoes, rice and pulses without having to weigh or measure. Charlie said “I used to think that losing weight meant eating nothing but salad and having to eat small portions, which definitely didn’t appeal to me. Food Optimising isn’t a diet though, it’s a lifestyle change. I mainly still eat the same meals that I did beforehand but we make them in a more healthy way now like using low calorie cooking spray instead of oil or butter and I eat a lot more fruit and veg. I expected to feel hungry but I couldn’t believe how much I was eating and I still lost 8.5 lbs in my 1st week. I haven’t looked back since.” Since then Charlie’s lost a total of 5 stone 6.5lbs in 23 weeks and dropped 12 inches from his waist. He’s become much more active too and walks every day with his sisters who keep him company. He also uses an exercise bike at home regularly. REWARDING

“This is the best and most rewarding part of my journey” says Charlie, “as before I had lots of aches and pains especially in my back, and found it difficult to get in and out of the car. In fact, it was actually very hard at times to fit behind the steering wheel in some cars.” Charlie no longer has the back pain and his breathing is now perfect as a result and has a fantastic spring in his step that he didn’t have before his amazing weight loss. In fact Charlie no longer needs medication for his blood pressure and his cholesterol is in a healthy range. Siobhan Brier, who runs the Strokestown group which Charlie attends, hopes he will inspire other men in Roscommon who want to lose weight. “Blokes might think that coming to a slimming club is a bit ‘girly’. I hope Charlie will show that lots of different people come along to our groups and each and every one gets a warm and friendly welcome. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman, young or old or anything like that because ultimately we’re all there for the same reason – to lose weight and to feel healthier and more confident and to be able to do more with our families and friends, and that’s what is most important. I’m so incredibly proud of Charlie as are all our Strokestown members and he is a true inspiration to us all.

“As Charlie proves, whether you’ve got a little or a lot of weight to lose, slimming down can make a big difference to how you feel about yourself and ultimately your health. He’s ready to celebrate the 2015 festive season and will definitely be living up to his new Mr. Sleek name. And if other people in the area would like to lose weight before Christmas too, there’s no better time than now to start. Our eating plan is so generous that you won’t have to miss out on any of your festive favourites and there’s lots going on in all our Slimming World groups so it’ll be lots of fun too.” Everyone’s welcome at the Strokestown Slimming World group at the Percy French Hotel every Monday at 7.30 pm. People can simply come along on Mondays at 7.30 pm or anyone who’d like more information can call Siobhan on 083-3533130 or log on to www.slimmingworld.ie to find your nearest group. (See page 13).

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Christmas week at the Roscommon People Five Christmas movies that we recommend… < DARRAGH O’CONNOR

1: ‘Home Alone’ (1990) An 8-year old troublemaker must protect his home from a pair of burglars when his family accidentally leaves him home alone during Christmas vacation.

2: ‘Home Alone 2: Lost in New York’ (1992) One year after Kevin was left home alone and had to defeat a pair of bumbling burglars, he accidentally finds himself in New York City, and the same criminals are not far behind.

Christmas Day – you do all the work, the fat guy in the red suit gets all of the credit! Miriam Kerins has some last-minute thoughts on that pending big day…

ine’s a large JD and Coke, two pieces of ice and a slice of lemon, oh, er, on second thoughts, hold the Coke, ice and lemon; I forgot, Christmas is here! Ah seriously folks, sure it’s a great time and I love it; and you’d have to be seriously Claus-trophobic (ha ha Geddit?) not to enjoy a visit from the big fat jolly guy in the red suit! However you’d also need to be Mother Theresa when your pervy uncle enjoys the spirit a bit too much, gets plastered and starts making passes at your very reserved next door neighbour. Oh yeah Christmas, or as I call it, the silly season, can be a right battlefield, especially when it involves, family, friends, food and, er, fornication – see above

mentioned pervy uncle, and, as the Matriarch of the house, you…yes you mammy, get to do the plotting and planning and, as someone who used to cook Christmas dinner for 15 guests every year back in my native Dublin, I’ve put together a few simple tips that I hope will see you through; after that you’re on your own. Decide on a time for dinner and tell, text or send a PM on FB to all guests, giving them an earlier time to make sure there are no late arrivals. Remember to smile graciously at the ungrateful prat who idles through the door half way between the main course and dessert expecting you to interrupt your roast potatoes, jump up and make a fuss of him. Fat bloody chance sunshine! And breathe… If someone offers you help, well personally “I’d say thanks, but I’ve got it sorted; all you have to do is arrive and enjoy your day!” (Cue sickly sweet smile). I’m a

control freak in the kitchen and have no patience with those who get under my feet. Just plan early and do it your way because in my experience, if you want something done right…do it yourself! However as Christmas is a time for comfort and joy, delegate the clearing up and the washing up to that desperate to help guest. When serving pre-dinner nibbles, spare the good China and serve them on paper plates. Also, do what I do and cheat! I’ve noticed the local shops all have a variety of delicious ready to heat and serve Christmas treats so don’t be a martyr; it’s not an endurance test and there’s no harm in duping your guests when it comes to the small stuff. When the turkey’s been demolished, when the honey glazed ham’s been picked to the bone, when three kilos of Roses have been scoffed – except for the orange ones – and when the Prosecco has been guzzled and you’ve regressed into that bitter

aul wagon who has the same row with her interfering former sister-in-law year after bloody year; even if she is spoiling for a fight, back down…do what I do and remember that you can’t change the aul Grinch but you can change the way to react to her, so, for the sake of family harmony, smile like a demented hyena and ask her if she’s lost weight and say how wonderful she looks. Seriously; you’ll be the hero of the hour. And finally; when your guests have strip mined your home of food and drink, when your day of stress and obligation has come to an end, and when you’re one bottle of body lotion short of being able to open your own gift shop, sit back…but don’t bother to congratulate yourself on a job well done because even though you’ve worked yourself into a Nigella like frenzy, remember, it’s always going to be the fat guy in the red suit who gets all of the credit.

3: ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ (2000) The reclusive green Grinch decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. However, the bitter grump finds a hitch in his plans when he encounters the endearing Cindy Lou Who.

4:‘A Christmas Carol’ (2009) An animated retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic novel about a Victorian-era miser taken on a journey of self-redemption, courtesy of several mysterious Christmas apparitions.

5: ‘The Polar Express’ (2004) A young boy embarks on a magical adventure to the North Pole on the Polar Express. During his adventure he learns about friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Christmas week at the Roscommon People

Hard Christmas labour on the wards < DAN DOONER

Well the baby Jesus himself may have been born on a bundle of straw in a manger, but thankfully nowadays things have improved slightly. Here at the Roscommon People we have great admiration for those people who have to work over the Christmas period, just like staff midwife, Ruth Wallace, of Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe. So how much downtime can a midwife enjoy over Christmas? “Well, there are no holidays granted over the Christmas period so that makes it fair for everyone. I’m working both Christmas and New Year’s Eve, but I will be taking a holiday in January.” The good news is that shifts can be flexible for staff with young children. “I have four children and when they were young it was hard, obviously shifts could be switched around but now I don’t mind it so much and I try to help staff with younger children if I can.” Obviously newborns don’t care about being

born on inconvenient days, so Christmas is just as busy as any other time. “The labour ward will be very busy, it’ll be all hands on deck due to reduced staffing at this time of year. Because the post office is closed it also means that the heel test may have to be done here as there is no way to post results.”

“Obviously things have very much changed on the ward, but I remember a time when Santa would be around with presents and the nuns would be around also. The nuns used to bring presents and even the odd drink and even the patients would have a Christmas toast!” A labour ward can be a stressful place at the best of times and Christmas can add to that stress. Ruth says that recent problems within the health service are felt across the board and make the job even more difficult. “Unfortunately, the scrutiny on maternity services has taken its toll, I feel. I love my

job and it can be such a happy place to work but there is no doubting that there is a blame culture now. I fear that young people won’t want to work in this sector in the future. Nobody comes to work to do harm and the service health care workers do is so important.” There’s no doubt that there is a magical atmosphere particularly around new mothers at Christmas and Ruth remembers when things were even more festive. “Obviously things have very much changed on the ward, but I remember a time when Santa would be around with presents and the nuns would be around also. The nuns used to bring presents and even the odd drink and even the patients would have a Christmas toast!” Ruth and her colleagues will be busy over this Christmas period while most of us are sitting down to Indiana Jones and repeats of Only Fools And Horses. The nuns won’t be around and the staff will just get on with providing care for mothers and their newborns while understaffed, and, at times, Pictured is Ruth Wallace, staff midwife, Portiuncula Hospital, under-appreciated. Ballinasloe.

Funniest tweets of the year ber Justin Bieber @justinbie and the Irish no Love to my brother Kea squad on a big win today.

‘I am a mountain goat that keeps going’ Seamus Duke selects his stand-out quotes of 2015… ‘Je suis Charlie’ – The world’s declaration of support (French for “I am Charlie”) for the French satirical magazine ‘Charlie Hebdo,’ the offices of which were attacked by gunmen claiming to represent Al-Qaeda, on January 7th. 11 people died and a further 11 were injured ‘God always forgives, we men forgive sometimes, but nature never forgives. If you give nature a slap, she will give you one back even harder. I believe that we have exploited nature too much’ – Pope Francis makes a blunt comment about mankind’s effect on the environment

‘I am a mountain goat that keeps going and going and going, I cannot be stopped, I just keep going’ – FIFA President Sepp Blatter speaks out just a few days before his fifth re-election. He was stopped in June, however, when he resigned following investigations into corruption within world football’s governing body ‘I can’t believe 50 years have gone by since that film was released. I blinked and suddenly here I am. We all really felt blessed and as for me; how lucky can a girl get?’ – Veteran British actress Julie Andrews reflects on her career on the 50th anniversary of the release of ‘The Sound of Music’ ‘I will build a great wall, and nobody builds walls better than

me, believe me, and I’ll build them very inexpensively. I will build a great, great wall on our southern border, and I will make Mexico pay for that wall. Mark my words’ – Donald Trump, discussing his plans to control illegal immigration through the USA’s Mexican border

Merkel on her announcement that Germany would accommodate up to 800,000 refugees, in September

‘With today’s vote we have disclosed who we are. We are a generous, compassionate, bold and joyful people who say yes to inclusion, yes to generosity, yes to love, yes to gay marriage’ – Enda Kenny, Taoiseach, following the May referendum which made Ireland the first ever country to legalise gay marriage through a public vote

‘If this works out for us I’ll want loads of money’ – Monaghan county councillor Hughie McIlvaney to an undercover reporter on the RTE Investigates programme in December

‘If we had not shown a friendly face, that’s not my country’ – German Chancellor Angela

huberman Amy Huberman @amy rting to speak is sta r dle tod a Living with really small foreign a h wit kind of like living loves raisins. o exchange student. Wh cBride Gerry McBride @GerryM s known to wa The phrase “the suspect by the words “and Gardaí” is never followed nd.” sou they all thought he was in Colm Tobin @colmtob the train for having Man berating his boy on he doesn’t look pe his feet on the seat. Ho e on this one. over here, I’ve got my ars

‘Chewie, we’re home’ – Harrison Ford, in the trailer for the hugely-anticipated seventh Star Wars film, ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’

‘I wasn’t aware that there was such a big salary for the Presidency of the IFA’ – Former IFA President Eddie Downey during the IFA ‘pay’ controversy

iamacaree Fuchsia MacAree @fuchs ne look like an Sto y rne Bla the of All photos e of a body. old fella trying to dispos Baz @bazlyons ed who your Turns out when you’re ask ected to pick exp ’re you is favourite child from your own.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Christmas week at the Roscommon People

Fed up with all the glad tidings and Christmas Miracle Movie schmaltz? Take a look at my alternative Christmas Movie list... < MIRIAM KERINS

As I sit here at 6.30 am on a strangely mild Friday morning, the dogs are sleeping and Christmas FM is blaring in the background; yes I said blaring because I love belting out those classic Christmas songs, my favourite being Mariah – why use one note when ten will do – Scarey’s ‘All I want for Christmas is yoooouuuuuu,’ I’m already planning our – and when I say our – I mean my Christmas viewing. I mean, isn’t hubby lucky to have a wife who controls, sorry takes care, of all his festive viewing needs? Ok, hubby doesn’t do Christmas movies he’s more of a documentary channel nerd, but I did notice a smile when I forced, er, invited him to sit down with me to watch The Santa Clause last Saturday so he’s coming round. So, if you’re one of those people who are sick of all the glad tidings and Christmas miracle schmaltz, why not have a look at my alternative Christmas movie list – you never know, you just might enjoy it. 1. Top of my list is Bad Santa. Yes it’s a Christmas movie but

this funny, drunken, thieving, foul-mouthed, rip-off merchant is definitely not suitable viewing for impressionable young minds. 2. The original Die Hard…yippee ki-yay mother…ah yes, when Bruce Willis delivers that immortal line ya just know those terrorists will be roasting on an open fire with the very sexy John McClane, complete with don’tfuss-with-me buzz cut and a machine gun – remember when he kills one of the terrorists, puts him in a chair and sends him down in the lift wearing a Santa hat and a sweat shirt that says ‘now I have a machine gun hoho-ho’ - will be nipping at their noses; and other body parts. Oooh I’m whipping myself up into an eggnog frenzy just thinking about it. 3. Next up is The Nightmare Before Christmas. Tim Burton really knows how to do a scary Christmas movie where poor old Santa gets kidnapped and is held hostage by addicted gambler The Boogieman. Again, not for the under 12s…unless you want your own nightmare before Christmas. 4. Gremlins! Ah, who remem-

bers this adorable oldie but at the same time a goodie that is now over 30 years old but has stood the test of time. I remember going to the movies with my then 3 year old daughter who fell in love with Gizmo the cheeky pet ‘Mogwai’ filling our house with about then cuddly versions of him and his army. However, if you do sit down to watch this cult classic over the Christmas, take note…never, ever, forget to read the flippin’ instructions! Bill Murray’s nasty portrayal as Frank Cross will surely ‘Put a Little Love in your Heart,’ as you demolish the Quality Street, but not until he sees the error of his ways, having been visited by his ghosts of Christmases past, present and, scarily, the future. Ah yes, who could forget Scrooged, mind you I still cringe when the prop movie man says to Frank Cross, “I can’t get the antlers glued to this little guy,” as he holds a baby mouse in the palm of his hand. “We tried crazy glue, but it don’t work.” Cross…”Did you try staples?” Aaagh…animal lovers across the world are throwing mince pies at the telly. Relax the kacks, it’s only a movie.

Top ten Christmas songs of all time < DARRAGH O’CONNOR

Pictured are pupils from Athleague National School with their collection of shoeboxes for the Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal.

• ‘I Wish It Could be Christmas Everyday’ by Wizzard • ‘Last Christmas’ by Wham! • ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ by Mariah Carey • ‘Fairytale Of New York’ by The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl • ‘Merry Xmas Everybody’ by Slade • ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ by Band Aid • ‘Santa Claus is Coming to Town’ by Harry Reser • ‘Driving Home For Christmas’ by Chris Rea • ‘Rockin Around The Christmas Tree’ by Brenda Lee • ‘Do You Hear What I Hear?’ by Bing Crosby

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Christmas week at the Roscommon People

10 top stories of 2015 haviour and who murdered to satisfy his bizarre and twisted desires. There was some brilliant police work and the way that Dwyer was eventually caught is a story in itself. The evidence in the trial was frequently disturbing and at times hard to listen to. Dwyer was convinced right to the very end that he would be found not guilty. The Gardai did a wonderful job and they secured their conviction.

SEAMUS DUKE reviews the year’s major news stories and events

A nation says YES If anyone wants to take a bellwether gauge as to where Ireland is as a nation in 2015 socially, then the same-sex marriage campaign was surely a very accurate marker. In May, Ireland became the first country in the world in which its people voted to legalise gay marriage. The days when the Catholic Church ruled Irish society with an iron fist were well and truly gone and this was the final nail in that coffin. More young people than ever before voted and the result was emphatic (62% to 38%). The campaign was dominated by the ‘Yes’ side. The reason for that was partly that it was seen to be politically incorrect to campaign in favour of a ‘No’ vote – and there were accusations that there was bias in favour of the ‘Yes’ side in the media. The Roscommon-South Leitrim constituency was the only one in the country which recorded a ‘No’ vote, which generated a lot of publicity too. The result of the vote made world news and that weekend many Rossies were in London for the Roscommon v London Connacht Championship game and it was amazing to see the massive coverage that the story got in the UK.

The IFA pay scandal I have been in this job a long time and I would say that over those years the IFA have been the most impressive and successful lobby group in this country. However the revelations of massive pay and expenses paid to the top brass in the organisation was shocking, even to the most seasoned observers. Ordinary members of the organisation, many of whom are struggling to make ends meet, ended the year disillusioned and very angry – and with good reason too. Having heard about the greed and excessive pay and bonus culture in many organisations over the past few years – including the banks and many charitable and semi-state organisations – people probably should not have been surprised that the top people in the IFA had their noses well down in the trough. The depressing thing is that so many Irish people have been so very greedy over the years with not a care in the world for the ordinary people who are paying their wages. Can the IFA survive after this scandal? I’d say that it’s probably in the balance. Farmers need a strong lobby group. Whether that will be the IFA going forward, remains to be seen.

Terror threat Terrorism has been a fact of life for many, many years, but in 2015 it has been taken to a whole new level. We now have organisations like IS who have plenty of young, determined people ready and willing to slaughter innocent people in a variety of countries – and they are prepared to die during that task. The absolutely chilling and frightening massacres in Paris this year have rightly received massive media coverage, but a lot of people might forget that there are massacres going on every single day in Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan and other countries throughout the greater Middle Eastern Region. So are the Western powers right to bomb the IS

The story that kept running The debacle that is Irish Water continued at or near the top of the news diary in 2015. As we prepare for a new year the facts are that about 50% of the Irish people who have received a bill for water have not paid up. Not alone that, many people who have refused to pay have received the €100 grant issued by the Department of Social Protection. Even worse, the half a million water meters that are in the ground are redundant and we have a situation where those who do not pay their bill face no sanction whatsoever. The Irish Water story went off the front pages in the final couple of months of the year, but make no mistake it will be back centre stage sooner rather than later.

strongholds? They are damned if they do and they are damned if they don’t, and either way there is no winner. Terrorism is set to remain a fact of life and places like London, Paris and other major Western cities will always be a major targets – and there is not much we here in Ireland can do about it. Is it likely there will be an attack here in Ireland? It’s unlikely, but I suppose you cannot rule it out.

ing and Ireland eventually agreed to take in a couple of thousand people. But this problem is set to continue and every week ahundreds of people drown in the Mediterranean while trying to get to Europe’s shores. EU governments will have to grapple with this massive problem for a number of years to come.

The economy and us

In 2009 we witnessed the worst flooding in living memory in this country and there were major problems then, both locally and nationally. In December 2015 Storm Desmond wreaked havoc and once again flooding became front page news. A massive voluntary effort eventually saved businesses and homes in places like Athleague from suffering serious damage and it looks like a similar massive effort will succeed in Athlone too. However, other homes and businesses were not so lucky and it looks like this is going to become a more frequent problem in the years to come. The Government will have to put serious resources into flood relief in the near future and the cleaning of local rivers and drains will have to become a priority. I know that it is probably closing the door after the horse has bolted, but local authority planners who allowed housing estates and commercial premises to be built on known flood plains over the years stand indicted. Fields that were flooded many, many years ago before climate change was ever heard of were built on in the past twenty years – and those disastrous decisions are now coming back to haunt us.

No one disputes that the Irish economy has made a fairly spectacular recovery over the past 12 months, but try telling any shopkeeper, small business owner or publican in County Roscommon that the economy grew 7% in the first nine months of this year. The term ‘two-tier recovery’ is probably a cliché, but it certainly applies to rural Ireland. Yes, there are more jobs in the country, but they are in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway. There are very few young people left in rural areas – particularly during the week, and during the college year as well – and there has been little sign of a local recovery thus far. Will rural Ireland ever be able to share in the national recovery? Probably not.

Refugee crisis 2015 has seen an explosion of refugees as literally millions of people have fled war and starvation in places like Africa and the Middle East, but the biggest numbers came from Syria. Millions of people have felt unable to remain in the country as IS and other groups have battled it out in a bloody and vicious civil war. The vast majority of these people headed for Europe – and caused a major humanitarian problem for the EU. Germany was most generous, taking in the region of 800,000 people into their country. Other countries have not been as accommodat-

Return of the ﬂoods

An infamous trial The Graham Dwyer trial was one of the most high profile trials in years in this country. A brave film director will, some day, take on this story, because this case had everything. A well to do professional and family man who had a penchant for violent and taboo sexual be-

The story that wouldn’t go away Locally here in Roscommon probably the biggest story of 2015 related to the mental health services in the county which were under pressure for most of 2015. We had the threat to the Rosalie Unit in Castlerea, which eventually passed after a massive local campaign. We have had several very worrying stories of a lack of services in mental health areas in County Roscommon and later in the year a High Court Judge said that the services in the county were at ‘crisis point’. In the general health service, ambulance waiting times (the planned ambulance base in Loughglynn is still not up and running), overcrowded A&E units, and a lengthening of hospital waiting lists were a feature thoughout the year as Minister Varadkar and the HSE struggled on many fronts with an under-pressure health service.

UK General Election drama For those of is who love to watch elections, this was one of the most fascinating in many years. Opinions polls were shown to be very far off the mark as the Conservatives swept back into power despite all the polls saying that it was unlikely (and that an overall majority was effectively an impossibility). The Scottish Nationalists arrived on the scene in no uncertain terms and the Labour Party were badly hit. There are huge implications for Ireland as a result of that win for the Tories. David Cameron had, as one of his main policies during his campaign, pledged to the British people to put their membership of the EU to a referendum. That is sure to happen now in 2016 – and if the UK pull out it will have massive implications for Ireland. It looks at this stage as if the UK will almost certainly vote to exit the EU, but I suppose there is a bit of talking and persuading to go on this one yet.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Season’s Greetings

from your

Local Representatives

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Cllr. NIGEL

DINEEN INDEPENDENT

BALLINTOBER, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON Phone: 086 2130723 Email: nigel.dineen@hotmail.com

CLLR. MICHAEL CREATON Contact me anytime on: (086) 3647435 OR (094) 98 80076 CLOONARD, LOUGHGLYNN, CO. ROSCOMMON Thank you for your support in 2015 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas. Your Local Councillor in Roscommon/Castlerea Electoral Area

Wishing all my constituents a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous and Peaceful New Year from

Cllr. Tony Ward, Nora and family

Christmas comes early for Eugene! Cllr. Eugene Murphy passes a Christmas Tree in the Abbey Hotel yesterday (Sunday) on the way back into the ballroom where his victory in the Fianna Fail Selection Convention was about to be confirmed. Below: Attending the convention (left to right) were Jimmy Kearney, John Murphy and James Campbell. Pictures: Michael McCormack

CEO & Staff of Roscommon County Council

Contact Tony on (090) 64 88294 or (087) 9165226 Email: tonywardmcc@eircom.net Wishing everybody a Happy Christmas and best wishes for 2016 from

Cllr. Rachel Doherty Cootehall, Boyle, Co. Roscommon (087) 8329092 Wishing all my constituents a very Happy Christmas & Prosperous New year from

Senator John Kelly & Bríd Castlemore, Ballaghaderreen (086) 8094698 – Available 24/7 Thank you for your courtesy over the last number of years from John Kelly - The Labour Party.

Cllr. Michael Mulligan & Family The Square, Ballaghaderreen Contact me on (087) 7799781 Thank you for your support in 2015 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas

Thank you for your support in 2015 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Cllr. John Naughten Ardkeenan, Drum, Athlone, Co. Roscommon (090) 64 37928 (087) 9019334 Email: cllrjnaughten@roscommoncoco.ie Thank you for your support in 2015 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas

Cllr.

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

Wishing all my constituents a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous and Peaceful 2016 from

Cllr. Laurence Fallon BALLAGH, KNOCKCROGHERY, CO.ROSCOMMON. 090 6488232 086 8575512 cllrlfallon@roscommoncoco.ie Thank you for your support in 2015 and wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

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

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Season’s Greetings

from your

Local Representatives

What they said… about politics I love power. But it is as an artist that I love it. I love it as a musician loves his violin, to draw out its sounds and chords and harmonies. – Napoleon Bonaparte

The activist is not the man who says the river is dirty. The activist is the man who cleans up the river. – Ross Perot

Bad politicians are sent to Washington by good people who don’t vote. – William E. Simon Half of the American people have never read a newspaper. Half never voted for President. One hopes it is the same half. – Gore Vidal

Cllr. Maura

Hopkins

M: 086 856 4206 email: cllrmaurahopkins@gmail.com Wishing all my constituents a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous and Peaceful New Year

It has been said that politics is the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first. – Ronald Reagan

Politics is war without bloodshed while war is politics with bloodshed. – Mao Zedong

Fine Gael Candidate for Roscommon/Galway

Wishing everyone a very enjoyable Christmas and a very Happy New Year Best wishes

I am extraordinarily patient, provided I get my own way in the end. – Margaret Thatcher

Wishing one and all a very Happy Christmas and a Happy & Healthy 2016

Vote for the man who promises least; he’ll be the least disappointing. – Bernard Baruch

Cllr.

Eugene Murphy

We have always found the Irish a bit odd. They refuse to be English. – Winston Churchill Season’s Greetings from

Cllr. Politics is the art of looking for trouble, finding it everywhere, diagnosing it incorrectly and applying the wrong remedies. – Groucho Marx

“I have a question for you Nina, I have a question for you. What’s in it for me? – Cllr. Hugh McElvaney

ORLA LEYDEN Mobile:

087 2819918

Wishing the people of Roscommon and Galway a Very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

086 8331234

Fuerty, Co. Roscommon (087) 2451267 Sales Manager Eurona Brisknet Broadband

Des Joyce

Wishing one and all a very Happy Christmas and a Happy & Healthy 2016

Contact me on Email: frank.feighan@oireachtas.ie

Cllr. Domnick Connolly (Independent)

Cllr.

Working for the people.

Clinic Times: 23 Hours A Day, 7 Days A Week

Wishing all my constituents a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year from

Wishing all my constituents a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

CLLR. IVAN CONNAUGHTON

Frank Feighan TD BRIDGE STREET, BOYLE

086 2507590

Michael & Maria Fitzmaurice, family & staff sends Christmas Greetings and best wishes for 2016 to all constituents

(087) 4186208

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

NewsPeople

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

Getting the sack, turkey-gate and my version of ‘Frozen’ – ah, those fond Christmas memories! Pictured is Eugene Deering, Ballyforan, who recently graduated with a 1st Class Honours Masters Degree in Public Law from NUI Galway. Eugene hopes to pursue a Ph.D. in Housing Law in 2016.

Annual ‘Turkey Trot’ at St. Brendan’s 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!

Winner of the Field competition announced The winner of our recent Field competition was Mairead Phillips from Tiobhine, Castlerea. The Field, which is the creation of local man Padraic Cuddy, is sure to be popular this country across Ireland after it featured

Irish Wheelchair Association’s thanks The Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) would like to thank everyone who contributed to their recent national fundraising Angel campaign. “The kindness and generosity we receive time and time again has been overwhelming and we are truly grateful to you all.” said a spokesperson. “Our members, service users, staff, friends, families and volunteers work so hard to raise vital funds for the IWA which enables us to maintain our services. “We would also like to thank all the shops and the people of Co. Roscommon who assisted, donated and volunteered during the month of November, especially the teachers and students from The Convent of Mercy, Roscommon, St. Nathy’s College, Ballaghaderreen and Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown who helped with our street collections in their towns. “This year the campaign raised a fantastic amount of money which will be invested into replacing, maintaining and servicing IWA’s essential fleet of accessible vehicles which play an essential role in delivering and maintaining services to IWA members nationwide.” If you would like to know more about the organisation and the work they carry out please contact 090 6662277

Once upon a time, in one of my many jobs, I was a salesman for a specialist bed manufacturing company who made electric beds which could be lowered or heightened to suit the needs of whoever might be sleeping in them. Because of their nature they were aimed at the older, more infirm – and presumably wealthier – section of society. I cannot say who the company was, because when I tell you how their sales pitch operated, I’d surely be in the High Court. The beds were very expensive – let’s say €5000 – and the first pitch was to try and sell it at the full price. If you could get a sale at that figure, the salesperson would be rewarded with something like a portable telly or a computer (never got one) or some other inducements. However there were a few other figures you could sell at, all the way down to about half the original price, that meant at worst-case scenario you could actually sell at €2,500! However as you lowered your price, your commission also got lowered, ‘till eventually at the lowest allowable sale price you got nothing at all. And so, one Christmas, to inspire the salesforce for greater efforts in the New Year, the company brought over one of their hot-shot super-successful salespeople all the way from America and he spoke to us all in Buswell’s Hotel up in Dublin. Unfortunately for me (maybe fortunately) I had been out for a few Christmas drinks the night before and neither my enthusiasm or my attention was at the required level. As the great man roared and ranted at us and explained how he was so wonderful at his horrible job, I fell asleep – and, as Carol (and John Crean and Jack the Lower) will tell you – when I snore, the whole room shakes. Anyway, fairly soon my snoring started and apparently it got louder and louder ‘till at last Mister hot-shot could take no more and he shook me roughly to wake me up. ‘Mr Brandon’ (that’s me, in case you’ve lost me) he shouted, ‘you are not paying attention and if you don’t show more interest I will have to ask you to leave not only this meeting, but the entire company.’ By now I had realised that I didn’t like either him or his company, so I told him what I thought of him and what he could do with his job. Christmas was only a day or two away and I had got the sack. Not Santa’s sack – but the one which meant I didn’t have a whole lot to look forward to in the New Year. But of course Christmas is such a special time of the year that we carry on regardless. I have to say in my life, although I’ve had some good things happen in the run-up to the festive season, I have also had my share of unwelcome drama. By a strange coincidence, the town of Ballyhaunis in Co. Mayo features in a couple of unwelcome Christmas memories, each of them associated with my time as proprietor of the Country Furniture store. One time I sold a three-piece suite to a couple on the Knock Road and I said I would deliver it the

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Castlecoote were Annmarie, Olivia, Laura and Aidan Donohue. Picture: Andrew Fox

day before Christmas Eve, the plan being that when I got paid for it I’d have a ball of money for the holidays. Sadly, we couldn’t get it in the door. We tried the windows, the back door and the front door. I was so desperate I’d have put it in the neighbour’s house, but it was all to no avail. The suite had to come home and it was chicken for dinner that year (only joking, we had bacon). Another year, also in the run-in to Christmas, I had another delivery, this time to a pub on the narrow street you pass through before you get to the Main Street. Now while I’m a passable enough driver, I wouldn’t be the Stig or Lewis Hamilton, and unfortunately in my efforts to park I forgot about the height of my truck and took the sign for the pub clean out of it. This time I came into Ballyhaunis about £200 in credit – when the bill for the new sign arrived shortly into the New Year, it was for £800, so that trip netted me minus £600. For some reason, when I go to Knock I start to shake after Ballinlough, and it doesn’t stop ‘till I’m safe in the magnificent Basilica – must be something to do with my previous experiences in Ballyhaunis. However I’ve also had some good Christmas happenings, the best of which I’ve told you about before, when I won a 26lb turkey in Jimmy’s Christmas Draw in Dundalk and thumbed all the way home on Christmas Eve with the huge turkey over my shoulder. I never thanked all the people who let me and the turkey into their cars, and even though it’s almost 40 years ago, if you were one of them I’m thanking you now. Another not so pleasant memory of a Christmas Day was one when the children were young. Because the pipe bringing the water into the house was frozen solid, we hadn’t a

drop to do any of the normal chores – like wash the dishes or the kids or even go to the loo. That wouldn’t be great on any ordinary day, but on Christmas Day it was a catastrophe. However, when the going gets tough the tough get going and so, armed with a vice grip and a packet of firelighters (the pipe was overground, which was why it was frozen in the first place, which fact was pointed out to me several times) I spent hours heating up the pipe ‘till some time in the late evening I got that precious liquid flowing. Never was a drop of water so welcome and thank God I heard this morning that temperatures will be in the low teens this 25th of December, so whatever problems we have, frozen pipes won’t be one of them.

Happy Christmas Anyway, this Christmas is almost upon us, and so far I’ve been drama-free! I only hope it stays that way, not only for me, but also for you. As this is my final piece for this year I just want to wish you all a Happy Christmas and New Year and hopefully you’ll make it in one piece through the festive season. Don’t overdo the eating and the drinking but if you do come to Creggs on Stephen’s Day, do the Barrie Harris Walk, get rid of some of the excess calories, then put them back on at the afternoon session in Mikeen’s, contribute to a number of great causes and have a great day’s fun! Happy Christmas one and see all see you in 2016. ‘Till next year, Bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Oran, Castleplunkett

Let the festivities begin! Business people in Ballintubber, Oran, Castleplunkett and Ballymoe are extending a very Happy Christmas and every good wish for the New Year to all their loyal customers and friends in the area. What a great year it’s

been on the sporting front in these areas, feats which serve to underline the resilience of the community spirit that is prevalent locally. This is a particularly picturesque part of our county, steeped in heritage and history,

and blessed with a great community spirit amongst its people. Here at the Roscommon People we take

this opportunity to thank everyone in these areas for their support in 2015 and we wish everyone in Ball-

intubber, Oran, Castleplunkett and Ballymoe a Happy Christmas and a prosperous and peaceful New Year.

Wishing all our customers a very Merry Christmas and thank you for your support during the year

Kenny’s Lounge Ballintubber. Tel. 094 96 55 205 Thursday 24th: BIG HAMPER DRAW Saturday 26th: Annual St. Stephen’s Day Walk Reception followed by music and craic with CELTIC CRÚ St. Stephen’s Night: Music with TOP LEVEL Sunday 27th: Party Night with MARK FINN Thursday 31st, New Year’s Eve – Evening Time: Join the Party with Music by STRINGS ATTACHED Meet and greet the new Bride & Groom – Congratulations Rachel and Gerry Later that night – Party continues with THE LANCERS Friday 1st: DUKEBOX LIVE Saturday 2nd: Party Night with STRINGS ATTACHED Sunday 3rd: IRISH ROVER

We cater for all Parties, Functions & Fundraisers with Complimentary Refreshments Call: Eileen on 087 2308895 or James on 087 6029990

Ballintubber Walk/Walk on St Stephen’s Day The annual Ballintubber St Stephen’s Day Walk/ Run will take place this year, starting at 1.30 pm and offering both 5k and 10k routes. Over the years, this walk has become part of Ball-

intubber tradition with families and neighbours meeting and walking together to burn off any excesses of Christmas Day. In recent years, runners have become a welcome part of the fun with both

locals and people from local villages taking part. The route has enough hills and inclines to make it a very interesting one. The annual walk is a fundraising opportunity for local worthy causes and

this year the Old School House, Ballintubber, and St Croan’s pitch/stand development are the beneficiaries. The Old School House is a beautiful building in the heart of the village, which functions as a community centre. Its windows and heating system are in need of repair. The new stand is part of the ongoing development at Enfield pitch and will be a fitting tribute to the wonderful success

the club has had in recent years. Pieta House, as part of its partnership with GAA, will also benefit from the funds raised. The après walk is always an enjoyable part of the occasion with refreshments served for all in Kenny’s. All cards returned will be included in a draw that will be held after the walk. The organisers look forward to seeing you all on St Stephen’s Day.

Earley’s

Bar & Lounge BUSHFIELD, CASTLEPLUNKETT Telephone: 087 2473775 Saturday 26th December -

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

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

CRIBBIN Car Sales

Castleplunkett, Castlerea

Tel: 086

- 2665015

A very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year from

MORAN Agri Contractors

For all your Agricultural Needs including: • Wagon Pit Silage • Baling • Ploughing • Harrowing • Umbilical Slurry Spreading + much more..

For more information on any of our services call

Declan – 086 3049851 or Vincent – 086 4044214 Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

Music by the very special & talented Eileen Kenny (Ballintubber), Santa and Pat Garvey (Ballintubber) during Father Christmas’s recent visit to the village. Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

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

Contact Damian at (087) 9962361

Adrian Martin Murphy (2 PIECE BAND)

Sunday 27th December -

In-House Pool Competition

BALLINTUBBER, CO. ROSCOMMON

POOL COMPETITION

TEL: 086 2549815 OR 094 96 55340

Thursday 31st December -

STOCKISTS OF CAR, COMMERCIAL AND AGRICULTURAL TYRES AT UNBEATABLE PRICES

Wednesday 30th December -

Earley’s Bar v Farrell’s, Frenchpark

New Year’s Eve Party Night - All Welcome Wishing all our Patrons a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from Michael Earley and family

WE ALSO STOCK YUASA CAR, TRUCK AND TRACTOR BATTERIES. ALL MAJOR CARD TYPES ACCEPTED

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Oran, Castleplunkett Season’s greetings from all at

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

Star Trophy Centre Drimatemple, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Phone: (094) 96 55079 Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

EDDIE’S BAR Ballymoe, Co. Galway Tel.: 086 3006060

Music & Entertainment over the Christmas period

Sonas Cloverhill recognised at Nursing Homes Ireland Awards Sonas Cloverhill has 53 beds and 14 independent living homes. The nursing home operates the Tealghlach or Household Model of Care. It is one of only 54 homes in Ireland specialising in delivering care for the complex needs of persons with dementia (DSIDC 2015). The environment is designed to meet the needs of each individual resident, with three distinct households – Ardkieran, Cams and Emlagh – names of local townlands chosen to reflect their locality. It incorporates a specially designated home environment (UDHI Guidelines) and care programmes for each level from early to end stage dementia meeting peoples’ changing needs. Shirely Larkin, the director of care of Sonas Cloverhill, was selected as a finalist in the Innovation in 2015 Dementia care with Nursing Homes Ireland. This award celebrates all the innovative practices in dementia care that Sonas Cloverhill puts into practice. Roscommon is unique in the fact that it has the oldest population in the country and also the highest number of people per head of population with dementia. This means that it is absolutely necessary to have both excellent services and choice to meet the

health and social care requirements of our ageing population. Sonas has championed the Household Model of Care, at Sonas Cloverhill, which is specifically designed and focused on caring for people with dementia. Sonas Cloverhill offers a positive and unique approach in dementia care which is inspiring. Sonas has established a comfortable and flourishing home in Cloverhill, reconfiguring the physical and visual environment, tailoring the person-centered programmes, and the provision of experienced trained staff that focus on communication and understanding. Daily life is resident focused, with unique schedules, individual likes and dislikes catered for, meaningful activities and day trips reflecting residents’ interests. Residents choose their own morning and night routines, what they want to wear, to eat and their own favorite chair, just like at home. The care is person-centered and this is now the accepted norm for excellence in dementia care internationally. Shirley said: “We in Sonas, Cloverhill have created a personcentered culture that is innovative, collaborative, inclusive and participative. We believe that the residents in Roscommon and their

Sonas Cloverhill staff attending the NHI Care Awards at the DoubleTree Hotel, Dublin recently.

families deserve the best care possible.” Sonas Cloverhill is leading the way in developing new initiatives of practice, in care of older persons, challenging existing practices and

eroding dominant stereotypes in dementia care. They are delighted to have the opportunity to celebrate these with our residents and families in Roscommon.

New local band – ‘Strings Attached’– launches! A very large crowd attended the launch of ‘Strings Attached’ at Kenny’s Lounge, Ballintubber, last Saturday night. The band, a young and talented group from Ballintubber and Fourmilehouse, got together a few months ago and have proven to be big hit. There are three members: Rory Cunniffe, from Carrane, Ballintubber; John Mannion, from Fourmilehouse; and Ar-

The members of Strings Attached.

lene Feely, from Ballintubber. Lead guitarist Rory, a sixth year student at CBS Roscommon, is hoping to study environmental science and is a keen footballer with St Croan’s. John, known as Johnny, is a sixth year student at Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown. A brilliant drummer, he inherited his music ability from his father, John, an accomplished musician with many bands.

Johnny loves music and wants to pursue this and study sound engineering at college. Arlene, a fifth year student at Convent of Mercy, Roscommon, is the lead vocalist with the band and also plays the rhythm guitar. She always had a passion for music. She started playing the piano at a very young age and then taught herself how to play the guitar. She now has her sights set on studying music production at college. She has played several gigs at Kenny’s, her family’s business, and is well able to get the crowd rocking. She is also the promoter of the band, so for any parties, functions or fundraisers, contact Arlene on 087-9470673. Strings Attached will be back at Kenny’s on December 30 and on January 2. They will also play at Eddie’s Bar, Ballymoe, on January 9.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Ballintubber, Ballymoe, Oran, Castleplunkett Wishing all our customers and friends a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year from

GARVEY’S PUB BALLINTUBBER

●

Live GAA Games shown on large screen Racing ●

Tuesday 22nd: Private Party Thursday 24th: Christmas Eve Draw Saturday 26th, St. Stephen’s Night: Music with Crazy Corner Sunday 27th: Top Level Thursday 31st, New Year’s Eve Celebration Night with all the trimmings

gus Ceol a Craic

Music with The Local Amigos (ex Rhythm Stars) Friday 1st - New Year’s Night: Singalong with Kevin Garvey

Catering for all events including Christenings, Special Birthdays and Funerals

CALL US ON: 094 96 55211 Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Santa with friends at Kenny’s Bar, Ballintubber.

‘We can do this ourselves’

Trusted insurance advice since 1980 $"3 7"/ )064& (BSZ $VOOBOF 2'" "1" )&"-5) #64*/&44 '"3. 5SVTUFE JOTVSBODF BEWJDF TJODF

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OURPLACE,OURYEAR

Gary Cunnane QFA, APA

Lower Main Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

1890 90 45 47 Email: cunnaneinsurance@eircom.net

< ANNE FARRELL

2015 is the first year without my father – the most important influence in my life, it has to be said, along with my lifelong best friend. As his first anniversary passed on March 29, 2015, and I prepared to travel to Gambela, Ethiopia, the next morning, I made certain promises to myself, not least of which was to be my own authentic self and shine my own light in this world – instead of merely reflecting others! Sadness, grief and loss were all

replaced by the stark reality of the Sudanese refugee camps in Gambela. There was no time for self-indulgence or ‘poor me’ syndrome. All energies were on the work on the ground as tens of thousands of south Sudanese women and children poured in over the border into a little-known town of maybe 1,000 people. The biggest issue for me was child protection – how can children integrate and resume any semblance of normality when adults struggle with it?

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas from

EDDIE NAUGHTON FENCING (Ballinaheglish)

Specialising in all types of fencing including: • Post & Rail • Agricultural • Pallisade • Rigid Mesh

Telephone: (086) 1500207 Wishing all my customers a very Happy Christmas, Health and Happiness for 2016. Thank you for your custom during the year.

MARCUS DWYER TILING Cloverhill, Co. Roscommon SPECIALIST IN: • Wall and Floor Tiling • Porcelain • Marble • Ceramic • Mosaic For free quotation and design advice

Contact

086 8640626

Returning from Ethiopia again, I quickly launched into catching up on the important work of family. Setting a very high value on education and knowing how children in developing countries would sacrifice almost anything to get an education, I began work on the education policy for Renua. Being nominated as the candidate in Roscommon-Galway constituency for the General Election has definitely been the highlight of the year. No doubt my father, if still alive, would be very proud. For this I pay him a huge tribute.

Great festive entertainment in Grove Lounge There will be plenty of top class entertainment at the Grove Lounge at Ballymoe over the Christmas period. There will be a special evening’s craic on St Stephen’s Day, with music by Country John, while the following day, The Risers (a trad band) will play. St Croan’s GAA Club will host an auction on Monday, December 28, while, on New Year’s Eve, Kartel will play.

Christmas is always a sad and lonely time and one of reflection. So my wish for 2016 is to participate in the creation of vibrant youth-engaging enterprises and projects to change that dreadful culture of dependency and replace it with one of “we can do this ourselves”. This, coupled with rewards for work done and initiatives taken, gives power back to the people. Anne Farrell, who lives in Rathnew, Oran, is a community activist and General Election candidate for Renua

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

Grove Lounge Ballymoe • Tel: 094 96 55182

Gary Cunnane T/A Cunnane Insurance Brokers is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

Dec’s Bar

Castleplunkett Inn We would like to wish all our patrons a very Happy Christmas and all the best for 2016. Let’s hope it’s a good one! Hope to see you all over this Christmas season Thursday 24th December, Christmas Eve

- Open from 12.30pm Saturday 26th December: Live music with local musicians MEE AND P Sunday 27th December: TULSK GAA will hold their Christmas Raffle Thursday 31st December, New Year’s Eve Party:

CROFTON MUSIC will provide the entertainment Free Draw for all customers on the night

Saturday 26th - St. Stephen’s Evening from 8pm:

Music with Country John Sunday 27th December:

The Risers (Trad Band) Monday 28th December:

St. Croan’s Auction Thursday 31st December – New Year’s Eve:

Kartel BALLYMOE PIZZA BAR Telephone: 094 96 55923

Saturday 2nd January:

Live Music with local Country and Western Irish Singer/Songwriter

DEREK CAMPBELL

Christmas craic in Dec’s Bar! Dec’s Bar at Castleplunkett has a great line-up of festive entertainment, starting on Christmas Eve, when the pub will be open from 12.30 pm. On St Stephen’s Day, there will be live music with local musicians Mee and P, while, on December 27, Tulsk GAA Club will hold their Christmas Raffle. On New Year’s Eve, the Crofton Music will provide the entertainment, while there will be a free draw for all customers on the night. On January 2, there will be live music with local country and western Irish singer/songwriter Derek Campbell.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Fourmilehouse Wishing all our local Community a very Happy Christmas and thank you for all your support during 2015 from

Kilbride Community Shop Kilbride Community Centre Kilbride Leisure Centre & Kilbride Community Bus Wishing our Community a very Happy Christmas and New Year,thank you for your continued support Our services include: Personal Assistant Services Home Support Services Flexible Learning College Disability Information Services.

Contact: 090 6625852 or info@rosdisabilities.ie Wishing you a very Happy Christmas from

KAREN GORDON Chocolatier BALLINDERRY ‘SCHOOL HOUSE’, FOURMILEHOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON Tel.: (090) 66 65843. Mob.: (086) 2232206 Email: roscommonchocolateco@gmail.com

An example to all! By any criteria, the Fourmilehouse/Kilbride area is one of the greatest examples of exceptional community-led enterprise anywhere in the country. For years the area has been the (good-natured) envy of many others – in Roscommon and beyond – as the list of achievements inspired by a tremendously dedicated community increases by the year. A beautiful part of the county, with a thriving GAA club and school, its heartbeat is of course in the area beside the Church and Community Centre, a focal point for the community where there are a number of excellent amenities and services. The provision of services and the ongoing development of the area is made possible by the hard work, relentless energy, enthusiasm and vision of volunteers in this very closeknit community, a community which is an example to all. In this feature we briefly touch on some of the well-known ‘good news’ elements of life in Fourmilehouse. Business people in Fourmilehouse are extending a very Happy Christmas and every good wish for the New Year to all their loyal customers and friends in the area. And here at the Roscommon People we take this opportunity to wish season’s greetings to all our readers in Fourmilehouse/Kilbride!

Community Centre set for upgrade < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Kilbride Community Centre is set for an upgrade in 2016. The centre, which opened in June 1997, has proven to be an extremely popular venue and hosts a variety of events. In the New Year, however, construction work on its interior is set to be carried out, which will cost about €40,000. “We will be updating the centre, making it a bit more viable for concerts, sound-proving it,” said Bernie Kearney, who helps to run

the facility. Financing the project is not likely to prove difficult: in recent years, the centre has turned over a significant profit. “Ten years ago, we were about €70,000 in debt and we have now built up €30,000 to €40,000,” said Bernie. “The centre has gone very well. Nearly everything in the county has been held there at some stage.” One of the most successful events hosted there this year was the fifth annual Harvest Gathering – a social event for older persons, organised by local community gardaí

– on Wednesday, September 30. Nearly 250 people attended. A Mass was held at the adjacent St Brigid’s Church, after which the participants made their way to the centre for an information seminar, refreshments, music and dancing. At the information centre, they received crime prevention advice, while, from an entertainment perspective, the main attraction was the Garda Band, who made their first appearance at this popular event. Another well-attended event this year was the Education and Train-

ing Fair, organised by Roscommon Leader, in conjunction with Co. Roscommon Youth Service and Roscommon Citizens Information. At this event, there was a showcase of a wide range of education and training opportunities available to those looking to update their skills to return to work, as well as school-leavers. A number of feiseanna were held at the centre during the year, the biggest of which was held over the May Bank Holiday weekend, attended by 1,000 people.

Wishing all our valued customers a very Happy Christmas from ...

For all Your Stone, Concrete, Block, Blacktop and Grolime Requirements CASTLEMINE, FOURMILEHOUSE, ROSCOMMON TELEPHONE: 090 66 29511 Roscommon 090 66 29511 • Cam 090 66 22085 • Boyle 071 966 2057

Season’s Greetings from ...

FOURMILEHOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON www.cohan.ie • Refrigeration • Air-Conditioning • Catering equipment • Beer Cooling Systems FOR SALES AND SERVICE CONTACT JIMMY 087 2460542 EMAIL: jimmy.aircon@gmail.com

Rose Brennan, Catriona Devine, Aidan Browne, Aileen Looby, Jennifer McCormack and Kathleen Finan pictured at the 2015 Harvest Exhibition in Fourmilehouse. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Christmas greetings from Fourmilehouse

NewsPeople

Pictured at the Tulsk Christmas Fair in the Tulsk Inn were Eithne Galvin, Maeve Galvin and Patricia Travers. Picture: Andrew Fox

Tom Moran and Bernie Kearney pictured checking progress on the new community shop in Fourmilehouse Community Centre just prior to its opening last year! Picture: Andrew Fox

Kilbride Community Shop thriving one year on < EOGHAN YOUNGMURPHY

On December 12 of last year, the enterprising community at Fourmilehouse began their latest ambitious venture by opening their own shop. Using the funding from the Kilbride Community Centre, which itself has thrived since opening in 1997, the Kilbride Community Shop was opened, located in the community centre. As laudable a measure as it was, some may have questioned whether there would be a sufficient demand to sustain it. The doubters have been proven wrong, however. “We are well satisfied,” said Bernie Kearney, who helps to run the community centre. “It is steadily increasing all of the time.” The shop is run under the Community Services Programme, which was established by the Department

of Social Protection. The shop is managed by Ita Kelly, while four workers – Geraldine Heneghan, Shiela McDermott, David Keegan and Edmund Gavigan – also work there. The shop is open on a daily basis: from 9 am to 7 pm, Monday to Friday; from 10 am to 3 pm on Saturday; and from 10 am to 1 pm on Sunday. A great variation of age groups frequent the shop. “Elderly come, people dropping their kids to school…” said Bernie. There was a clear need for a shop in the locality: before it opened, the nearest one was located several miles away, in Roscommon town, Strokestown or Tulsk, depending on where you lived at Fourmilehouse. The shop is not just a basic outlet, stocking bread, butter and milk; in fact, some 300-400 items are for sale there, Bernie estimates.

On the bus!

The Fourmilehouse Community Bus has provided a valuable service to the community since eight groups in the parish bought it between them in 2007-08. “It brings the elderly into town on a Tuesday and into town for their pensions on Fridays,” said Bernie Kearney, a community activist. It is particularly beneficial to the elderly, many of whom would be confined to their houses, and those who don’t drive themselves. Edmund Gavigan, the bus driver, is popular with passengers, developing a rapport with all those he encounters.

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year from

Pictured at the Tulsk Christmas Fair in the Tulsk Inn were Mary Mitchell and Linda O’Connor. Picture: Andrew Fox

Paul Foxe

Tel: 090 6600100 Mob: 087 6808589 E: paul@foxeaccountancy.ie

Athlone Road 39ARoscommon Main Street, Roscommon.

Castlemine Farm Shop

Pictured at the Tulsk Christmas Fair in the Tulsk Inn were August Poiute, Andy and Siobhán Rimmer. Picture: Andrew Fox

Circular Road, Roscommon

Email: shop@castleminefarm.ie or phone 090 6629886 Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and best wishes for a Happy, Healthy and Successful New Year

Wishing all our clients a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous 2016 from

The Skin Clinic Roscommon Skin Care Professionals Hollywell, Derrane, Roscommon

Visit the Skin Clinic on www.skinclinicroscommon.com •086 7342808 • 090 66 64021 Email: theskinclinic1@gmail.com Visit us on facebook Oﬀering tranquillity and privacy

Pictured at the Tulsk Christmas Fair in the Tulsk Inn were Gerry and Selina Galvin. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON Ph: (090) 66 27200 Fax: (090) 66 27201 Email: info@ pburkeassociates.com www.sherryfitz.ie 33 No. Residential Units Greenfields, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

D L O 8 Knights Court Castle Street Roscommon

D L O

Araghty, Athleague, Roscommon.

D L

The Harrison Centre Roscommon Co. Roscommon

S M R D E T EE R G A

Roxborough, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

D L O

Clooncashel Beg Kilrooskey Co. Roscommon

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Lissacurkia, Tulsk Co. Roscommon

D L O

Roscommon West Business Park Circular Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

E L SA EED R G A

ARE YOU A LANDLORD? Contact Our Residential Lettings Department For A FREE & CONFIDENTIAL RENTAL APPRAISAL of your property. Available For A limited Time Only

Wishing Everyone A Safe & Peaceful Christmas & Prosperous 2016 P. Burke & Staff

Excellent year for Sherry Fitzgerald as demand exceeds supply As the Roscommon property market continues to improve, Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke Auctioneers, Valuers & Estate Agents have noted a marked increase in the demand for residential property throughout Co. Roscommon and more specifically for detached family homes in Roscommon town as well as between Roscommon and Athlone. A notable feature of property sales in 2015 saw a number of interested buyers bidding on a property which is evidence of the increased demand. The increased demand for residential property throughout Co. Roscommon has seen an acute shortage in the supply and availability of detached family homes coming to the market in Roscommon town as well as between Roscommon and Athlone, with properties in high demand in these areas. Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke have presently a number of mortgage-approved buyers awaiting properties to come to the market in the aforementioned areas. Confidence in the retail property sector has returned, with a number of new businesses operating in the county town this year. This new confidence is further cemented following the sale of a number of units at a landmark Roscommon town commercial

outlet, namely Roscommon West Business Park on the Circular Road in Roscommon town. These sales has recently been agreed by Managing Director Padraig Burke of Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke. The sale of units at the well-known business park attracted local and national interest as well as intentional interest from investors in the USA, Dubai and Australia. Mr. Burke is also in the closing stages of negotiations on a number of Roscommon town commercial developments. The interest in retail properties for lease have also improved with some businesses looking to expand and looking for larger premises’ while there is also an increase from people looking to start up their own business. Commenting on this, Managing Director Padraig Burke said “The increased level of enquiries for retail properties throughout Co. Roscommon coupled with strong demand can only be termed as encouraging as we enter 2016.” In the Sherry FitzGerald Irish Agricultural Land Report Q3 2015, an analysis of sentiment in the market revealed that in general, activity levels in the agricultural land market remained stable over the three months to September, with some regions recording notable increases in

activity, leading to a moderate rise in prices. Agricultural land prices are experiencing modest inflation at present, with overall values up by 1.3% year to date across the country. Volatility continues to exist across the regions each quarter with the Western region being the strongest performers in the three months to September. Commenting on agricultural land sales, Managing Director Padraig Burke said “Good quality agricultural land is in constant demand throughout Co. Roscommon. For more information on what Sherry Fitzgerald P. Burke can do for you, contact Fergal Finnegan, Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke, Goff Street, Roscommon: 090-66 27200. Padraig Burke and the team at Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke would like to wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas and prosperous 2016.

Sherry Fitzgerald Irish Property Show for London Sherry FitzGerald will bring its Irish Property Show to London on Saturday, 21st February 2016. At the event, which will be held in Millennium Gloucester Hotel from 11 am-3 pm, the firm will be displaying a sample of properties from all across Ireland and giving UK purchasers an opportunity to meet property professionals from several of their offices across the country in one day, and in one location. Padraig Burke of Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke, Roscommon town will be returning to London with the Sherry FitzGerald countrywide offices to showcase their residential, commer-

cial, agricultural and industrial properties at the London Show, and is now offering property owners the opportunity to have their property showcased at the annual Sherry Fitzgerald London Irish Property Show. Padraig Burke said: “We have attended the Sherry Fitzgerald London Irish Property Show event for the last number of years and the feedback from those who attended is always positive. “The main interest is coming from Irish living in the UK and abroad looking to return to Ireland where they now see that there is fantastic value in Irish property, what was in the recent

past unaffordable is now well within their reach and with finance available to them they are ready to make a purchase. “While our agents receive regular enquiries from potential UK buyers this is literally bringing Irish property to their doorsteps.” Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke are now offering property owners the opportunity to have their property showcased. So if you want your property brought the extra mile to this event, contact Sherry FitzGerald P. Burke on 09066 27200 or 086-254 7050 or info@pburkeassociates.com and make sure your property is part of it.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople

Super six-bedroom house with garage and stables Loretta Dowd Properties is delighted to present for sale this superb six-bedroomed dormer bungalow offering spacious accommodation throughout with garage, stables and tack room to rear. ‘Ballinaboy Lodge’ is located at Ballinaboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon (just off the main

Roscommon/Lanesboro route). This property has been finished to a very high standard by its present owners. This property has its own private well on site and the heating system is dual – a solid fuel stove fitted in living room area and oil boiler located in garage. “This property must be viewed

to be fully appreciated”, commented Loretta Dowd. For immediate viewing, contact Loretta Dowd on 087-2233223 or email: ldowdproperties@ gmail.com or visit our website: www.lorettadowdropertylettings.com.

old S d l So TREMANE, ROSCOMMON

LICENCE 002905

le a S r Fo

Tully, Kilbride, Co Roscommon (SIMILAR PROPERTIES REQUIRED)

ld o S d Sol

5 BEDROOM (2 ENSUITES) LOCATED AT CASTLE MANOR ROSCOMMON TOWN PRICE: €170,000 (EXCELLENT FITOUT) BER C3

For

TULLYVRANE, LANESBORO, CO LONGFORD (SIMILAR PROPERTIES REQUIRED)

Sale

old S d l So

6 BEDROOM (3 ENSUITE *) LOCATED AT 15 WOODBERRY COURT, GOLF LINKS ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN (BER C3) PRICE ON APPLICATION

a For S

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6 BEDROOM BUNGALOW WITH STABLES LOCATED AT BALLINABOY, KILTEEVAN, CO ROSCOMMON (BER D1)

Thank you for your continued support Loretta Dowd would like to wish a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year to all her loyal customers, family and friends and looks forward to their continued support in 2016.

APARTMENT, KNOCKCROGHERY VILLAGE, CO ROSCOMMON (SIMILAR PROPERTIES REQUIRED)

Loretta Dowd Properties will be celebrating five years in business in April 2016 and again would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to everyone that has supported the business!

LISAGALLON, CLOVERHILL, CO ROSCOMMON (SIMILAR PROPERTIES REQUIRED) As 2015 draws to a close, Loretta Dowd wishes to thank all her valued customers both old and new, family and friends for their continued support over the past number of years. Loretta would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful 2016!

e-mail: ldowdproperties@gmail.com Web: www.lorettadowdpropertylettings.com

TEL: 087 2233223

Mobile: (086) 2599189

Properties For Sale

SOLD

SOLD SOLD 17 Abbey Court, Frenchpark 3 Bedroom Semi-Detached, End of Terrace.

“Half Mile House”, Killinagher, Ballyhaunis Co. Mayo. 2 Bedroom Country Cottage on Large Site.

SOLD

“Hilltop House”, Knockroe, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. 3 Bedroom Detached Bungalow Presented in Good Condition.

St. Patrick’s Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Well Established Retail Outlet with Long Trading History.

“Stone Cottage”, Currahard, Lisacul, Co. Roscommon. Exceptionally well Presented 3 Bedroom Bungalow with Extended Living Area.

Modern, 4 Bedroom Bungalow Finished to a High Standard.

SOLD 3 Castle Apartments, New Road, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

2 Bedroom, Granary Style Building Beautifully Restored to Modern Standards.

Lisacul, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon 15 acres forestry Similar required

ur clients, Wishing all o ds a Merry frien customers & d a Peaceful Christmas an ear New Y

Cloondaharra, Castlerea Co. Roscommon. Very Well Presented 4 Bedroom Detached Bungalow on Large Site Area.

Fairymount, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

SOLD “The Granary”, Aghagowla, Lough Key, Boyle Co. Roscommon.

SOLD

2 Bedroom Ground Floor Apt.

Cloonelt, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon.

Blackstick Road, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

Buckhill, Fairymount, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

Exceptionally Well Presented 3 Bedroom Bungalow with Additional Attic Space.

Fully Restored 2 Bedroom Farmhouse with Outbuildings.

Newly Built 3 Bedroom Bungalow Finished to Builder’s Finish.

WANTED: Good Quality Family Homes & Properties for The Rental Market. Lands To Let For The Coming Season. Forests & Forest Lands.

SOLD Roselawn Drive, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. 2 Bedroom Detached Bungalow.

SOLD SOLD Cloonbunny, Loughglynn, Castlerea. 3 Bedroom Detached Bungalow with Stables on 5 Acres.

Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon. 50 Acres Forestry Lands.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople

PAT HUGHES & CO. LTD.

– SALES BY –

AUCTIONEER & VALUER

ABBEY ST., ROSCOMMON. TEL: 090 66 27003. FAX: 090 66 26296 EMAIL: phughes2@eircom.net

D L O

At Racecourse Road, Roscommon an attractive Bungalow on a Large Private Site. Divided into two units

Circa 66 Acre Residential Farm at Clooneen, Athleague, Roscommon

D L

At Celtic Avenue, Roscommon Town an attractive 4 Bedroomed 2 Storey Dwelling on private site, located convenient to all amenities.

T E

Top Filling Station, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon.

D L O

At Emoe, Kilteevan, Roscommon. An Attractive 3 bedroomed Bungalow.

Opening Hours for Christmas: CLOSING Wednesday 23rd December at 1.00 p.m. OPENING Monday 4th January 2016 at 9.30a.m

Be U Shoes, Church Street, Roscommon.

Residence for Sale with Hughes & Co.

At Church Street, Roscommon circa 3,000 sq ft office space, formerly the old AIB Bank. Offers in the region of €250,000 are being considered.

At The Spinney, Roscommon a large 5 bedroomed 2 Storey. Offers in excess of €210,000 are being considered. At Galway Road, Roscommon a four bedroomed detached residence for sale. Offers in excess of €150,000 are being considered. At Racecourse Road, Roscommon a block of 4 x 1 bedroomed apartments, currently let. Offers in excess of €150,000 are being considered. At Drumdaff, Kilrooskey, Roscommon a large five bedroomed dormer bungalow on a large site with a fully finished large garage. Convenient to Roscommon Town Centre 2 townhouses, one in need of Restoration being offered for offers in the region of €80,000 and a property fully furnished ready to be set for €75,000

Commercial & Office Space to Rent with Hughes & Co.

T E L

4,000 sq ft of Garage Space available to rent at the Lanesboro Road, Roscommon.

Cherryside Business Centre, Unit available to Rent

For Sale at The Grove, Kilteevan an impressive 5 bedroomed dormer Bungalow on circa 1 acre site convenient to the Village.

For Sale at Moher, Lanesboro, an attractive 4 bedroomed bungalow on a large private site with a good range of out offices located a short distance from the River Shannon and minutes from Lanesboro Village.

Farms for sale with Hughes & Co. At Kiltultogue, Ballinaheglish, Roscommon circa 11acres

Circa 53 Acres at Morganstown, Circa 60 of Agricultural Land at Carrowmoney, Rahara, Athleague, Roscommon Co. Roscommon

E S A E L / E L A S OR Circa 25,000 sq ft of Office Space at Lanesboro Road, Roscommon Formerly HSE Offices

At Kilmore, Athleague, Roscommon circa 16 acres At Porteen, Dysart, Roscommon circa 20 acres with a Residence thereon At Drumdaff, Kilrooskey, Roscommon circa 21 acre

At Kileenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon,Circa 20 acre Farm with old Residence thereon

At Clooneigh, Kilteevan, Roscommon circa 57 acre Residential Farm

FOR DETAILS ON ANY OF THE ABOVE PROPERTIES, PLEASE CONTACT THE OFFICE ON 090 66 27003 OR EMAIL PHUGHES2@EIRCOM.NET

Pat and his staff would like to wish all their customers a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople

Pat Hughes & Company – a long and distinguished history Pat Hughes & Company was founded in 1924 by Patrick Hughes, Ballygar and Patrick Naughton, Mount Talbot. The business has continued ever since, covering counties Roscommon, Galway, Offaly, Westmeath, Longford, Mayo, Leitrim and Cavan. In the 1930s, ‘40s and ‘50s, prices were very small and times were tough. In the 1990s land prices ranged from £6,000 to £18,000 per acre. In the mid-1940s, Hughes & Co. acquired the business from the late William Black of Roscommon and opened an office in Roscommon town, managed by the late Jimmy Finn. Further expansion occurred in 1951 when they acquired the business of the late Frank Maguire. The late Sean Naughton, Mount Talbot, joined the company in 1947. Sean took over the business from his late father in the 1950s and Jack Hughes, deceased, replaced Patrick Hughes in 1970. Sean continued to run the business until Pat Hughes took over the company on the 19th November, 1993. The company continues to run very successfully to this day. At the moment Pat is confirming that prices have started to harden again and we seem to be coming out of the recession. Looking back through the history of Hughes & Co. there has been highs and lows throughout the years. This can be confirmed from records with lands selling from as low as

£200 per acre to the highs of £20,000 per acre.

Currently on our books At the moment Hughes & Company have on their books a number of farms and residential properties as well as commercial units for sale. At present Pat is offering at Morganstown, Athleague a circa 55-acre farm with a good range of farm buildings, sand arena and horse stables. Also available at Clooneigh, Kilteevan is a circa 57-acre residential farm with river frontage directly onto the River Shannon. The residence is a three-bedroomed bungalow in need of modernisation. They also have a fivebedroomed dormer bungalow located convenient to the village of Kilteevan, only three miles from Roscommon town. They also have a fivebedroomed dormer bungalow located at Drumdaff, Kilrooskey, Roscommon finished to a high standard with a large garage to the side. At Moher, Ballyleague, Lanesboro they have an impressive four-bedroomed bungalow on a large private site with a number of out-offices.

Investment opportunities In Roscommon town Hughes & Co. have a number of investment opportunities. They have a three-bedroomed town-

house on offer which is fully furnished, for €75,000. They also have a fourbedroomed townhouse, currently laid out into two separate units, located at Abbey Street, Roscommon. This would be an ideal investment opportunity. This property is being sold to offers in excess of €80,000. At the Racecourse Road, Roscommon they are offering a block of four onebedroomed apartments, fully let and finished to a high standard. Offers in excess of €160,000 are being considered for this fine property. They have a number of old cottages suitable for renovation and modernisation at different locations and on prominent sites in all areas.

Building sites Hughes & Company are also offering for sale a number of building sites in and around Roscommon. At The Walk, Roscommon the company are currently offering for sale a site with outline planning permission. Offers in the region of €70,000 are being considered. At Ballinagard Road, Roscommon they have on offer a large (half-acre) site with full planning permission for a two-storey residence.

Commercial units Hughes & Company have a number of commercial

Excellent dormer new to market in Fairymount Cathal O’Brien is delighted to present new to the market this quality property presented for sale in excellent condition, finished to a high standard and located in a most attractive countryside setting. The property comprises a generous garden area with unspoilt views located adjacent to Fairymount village and within easy access of Castlerea and Ballaghaderreen. Accommodation includes: reception, sittingroom, kitchen/diningroom, utility area, four bedrooms with master ensuite and main bathroom. Dormer area suitable for conversion if desired. Overall this is a select property which must be viewed to be appreciated. Enquiries invited. Cathal O’Brien, MIPAV, Auctioneer, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon. 0872613617, 094 9655313. Or email info@cathalobrien.ie or log onto www.cathalobrien.ie or Daft.ie. units to let in and around the town at present. * Cherryside Business Centre, Castle St, Roscommon, units ranging in size from 2,000 sq. ft. to 6,000 sq. ft. suitable for commercial or office space. * Lanesboro Road, Roscommon circa 25,000 sq. ft. of office space which can sold or leased. * At Church Street, Roscommon they have for sale circa 3,000 sq. ft. office/commercial space for sale (formerly the old AIB Bank). * At Henry Street they have a large commercial unit with a two-bedroomed apartment on the first floor. * At Lanesboro Road, Roscommon convenient to the new Top Oil Filling Station Hughes & Company have approximately 4,000 sq. ft. of garage or warehouse space available.

They are also confirming this week that there will be a new garage opening on part of this site in early January, offering people an opportunity to have their cars serviced. Further details to follow.

Properties required Pat has confirmed to the Roscommon People that they urgently require all types of property in and around Roscommon for disappointed under-bidders. Pat is confirming that 2015 was another successful year for a company that has been in business for over 91 years. If you are thinking of buying or selling Pat is encouraging people to talk to him. Let him advise you – his advice is free.

Luxury house in Frenchpark On the market at The Oaks, Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon is this luxury four-bedroomed two-story townhouse finished to showhouse standard. Features include tiled bathroom, fully-fitted kitchen, timber floor, fully painted, tarmac drive, PVC windows and mature lawns. Immediate viewings and offers advised by auctioneer, Nigel Dineen. For more information, contact Nigel Dineen, Auctioneer & Valuer on 086-2130723.

Racecourse Road, Roscommon.

Drumdaff, Kilrooskey.

Spacious detached residence

Happy Christmas

Pat and his staff would like to take this opportunity to wish all their customers & friends a Happy Christmas and Prosperous 2016

Opening hours for Christmas Closing Wednesday 23rd December at 1.00 pm Opening Monday 4th January 2016 at 9.30 am

Clooneigh, Kilteevan.

Loretta Dowd Property Lettings/Sales is delighted to present for sale four/five bedroom detached residences located at ‘Castle Manor’, Racecourse Road, Roscommon town – close to Roscommon town and all amenities. Price: €170,000 and immediate viewings invited! Further enquiries and viewings can be made to Loretta Dowd Properties on 087-2233223 or email: ldowdproperties@gmail.com or www.daft.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople Church Street, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon, Ireland Tel: 090 6627878 Fax: 090 6627877 Email: info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie/auctioneers The Manse, Northgate Street, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Ireland. Tel: 090 6477500 Fax: 090 6677546 Email: athlone@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

MAJESTIC BUNGALOW

QUALITY RESIDENCE

The Beacon, Barrymore, Kiltoom, Co. Westmeath

31 Abbeyville, Galway Road, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon

SOLD

SUPERIOR DORMER

IMPRESSIVE RESIDENCE

1 The Orchard, The Walk, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon

28 Woodview Court, Ardsallagh, Roscommon Town

SOLD

C. 30 ACRES

IMPRESSIVE RESIDENCE

Knocknanool, Brideswell, Co. Roscommon

Culleen, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

SOLD

C. 12.3 ACRE

IMPRESSIVE RESIDENCE

Residential Farm Carrownderry, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon

No1. Cnoc na Gaoithe Lanesboro, Co. Longford

SOLD

MAGNIFICENT LOCATION

EXCEPTIONAL RESIDENCE

Portrunny Lodge, Portrunny, Co. Roscommon

Cloonadra, Ballyleague Co. Roscommon

SOLD

EXCEPTION RESIDENCE

LANDMARK COUNTRY RESIDENCE

Golf Links Road, Roscommon Town Co. Roscommon

Kiltoom House, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

SOLD

Sale Agreed

Season’s greetings to all our clients and best wishes for the New Year from all at Oates Auctioneers and Financial Services

Another successful year at Oates Auctioneers Oates Auctioneers report a big change in the property market in 2015. There were very strong sales in residential and agricultural land with a flurry of activity to report. The purchasers are back in the market but the housing stock is very low and this is resulting in a supply deficit and thus an increase in house price not witnessed since 2006/2007. All indications are that price increases will continue into 2016 with no new developments due to commence in the immediate area. Agricultural property has also continued to sell well with up to €10,000 an acre being achieved

for top class lands. Forestry land is also in high demand with excellent long-tern returns available for prospective clients, many now seeing forestry as the ideal pension investment. Commercial property in the Roscommon town region has had a slow year; however Athlone continues to buck the trend with a very high commercial and industrial base. Looking forward, Aengus Oates pointed out that Athlone is by far the biggest market for Roscommon residential property being only 30 minutes’ drive away and with a large expanding workforce. Athlone-based purchasers are

continuing to purchase in large numbers in Roscommon town and surrounding villages. With this in mind Aengus Oates is encouraging all property sellers to list their properties in both Oates Auctioneers, Athlone and Oates Auctioneers, Roscommon. We provide this dual listing and marketing of properties at no extra cost. We look forward to 2016 with optimism for another successful year with stronger prices and more finance becoming available. We would like to thank all our clients for their loyal custom and wish everyone a Happy Christmas and Prosperous 2016.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople

Unit for lease in Roscommon town Connaughton Auctioneers are offering to the market a commercial unit for lease at Abbey Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon town.

The commercial unit comprises c. 3,000 sq. ft. available for lease on a long or short term basis, located just off Roscommon town centre and be-

side Roscommon Tyres and Roscommon Signs. With the benefit of threephase electricity, a high eave with roller door to front and open plan unit,

this property could suit a variety of uses and the auctioneer invites enquires. For further details contact the office on 0906663700.

Prime lands in Athleague Connaughton Auctioneers, Athleague are delighted to bring to the market for sale a prime property comprising prime elevated lands situated on c. 23 acres renowned limestone land with 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. The lands are located at Lisagirra, Athleague and are convenient to Athlone, Galway and Roscommon and only 14 miles from the M6 Galway-Dublin Motorway. The lands hold huge potential due to size, planning and location. For all maps and planning pack, contact sole selling agent, Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700.

●

Connaughton Auctioneers, Athleague are offering to the market for sale this week an attractive four-bedroomed semi-detached two-storey residence in a completed development at No. 20, Claremont, Ballyforan. This property is located in the centre of

Ballyforan village and located conveniently to the towns of Ballinasloe, Athlone and Roscommon. The residence boasts spacious living accommodation throughout. Viewing comes highly recommended and can be arranged by contacting the office on 090-6663700.

New to the market at Claremont Land for lease at Athleague Connaughton Auctioneers in Athleague have for lease c. 35 acres of lands at Hollygrove, Athleague available from 1st January 2016. For further details contact the office on 0906663700.

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 elevated lands comprising c. 23 acres renowned Limestone Land • Located convenient to Athlone, Galway and Roscommon • 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!

NEW TO THE MARKET 20 CLAREMONT BALLYFORAN, CO. ROSCOMMON PRICE REGION €85,000 • Attractive four bedroom semidetached two storey residence • Located in a completed development, in the centre of Ballyforan village • Located conveniently to the towns of Ballinasloe, Athlone & Roscommon. • The residence boasts spacious living accommodation throughout.

• For further information contact the office on 090 6663700

COMMERCIAL UNIT FOR LEASE UNIT 2 ABBEY BUSINESS PARK CIRCULAR ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN • Prime commercial unit comprising c. 3,000 sq. ft • Available for lease on a long or short term basis • Located just off Roscommon Town Centre beside Roscommon Tyres and Roscommon Signs • With the benefit of three phase electricity, a high eave with roller door to front and open plan unit • This property could suit a variety of uses

For further details contact the office on 090 6663700

LAND FOR LEASE At Hollygrove, Athleague c. 35 acres of lands available on long term lease from 1st January 2016 convient to Athleague, Ballygar and Creggs. For further details contact the office on 090 6663700.

CONNAUGHTON AUCTIONEERS WISH YOU ALL A HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND PROSPEROUS NEW 2016

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople ––––––––––––––––– Advertisement –––––––––––––––––

SALES BY

Attention affected landowners N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramogue Bypass Road

James Kilcoyne M.I.P.A.V., AUCTIONEERS, VALUERS & ESTATE AGENT

BALLAGHADERREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON PHONE: (094) 9860039 FAX: (094) 9860063 Email: jameskilcoyne@eircom.net Website:www.jameskilcoyne.com

CPO NOTIFICATION ATTENTION AFFECTED LANDOWNERS:

James Kilcoyne Auctioneers & Valuers, Ballaghaderreen are experienced and qualified valuers & negotiators in ALL aspects of CPO claims and have successfully acted for over 70% of landowners on the completed Ballaghaderreen bypass route and other similar schemes (references can be supplied). All affected landowners will be required to have up to date title on their lands and the associated maps must be in order, and in this regard we can offer you our professional assistance in advance of the claim and negotiations. Our intention is to meet all affected landowners, at their convenience, to discuss their potential claim without any cost or obligation to the landowner. Remember that the land valuation in relation to

N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge Bypass Road: PLEASE CONTACT US FIRST FOR BEST ADVICE

NOTE: WE ACTED FOR OVER 70% OF LANDOWNERS ON BALLAGHADERREEN BYPASS

Will your lands be severed and look like this?

your claim may be only a small aspect of your claim as there are a lot of issues to be taken into consideration which have to be negotiated in monetary terms in relation to the preparing and submitting of a claim which will necessitate a

number of meetings with the landowner. Due to the fact that we are locally-based we are always available at short notice to meet and discuss each case individually. James Kilcoyne Senior will be personally han-

dling all transactions in the above scheme and can be contacted on his mobile number at 087-8120339 or our office 094-9860039 or email: jameskilcoyne@ eircom.net. We would welcome a telephone call or email

Season’s greeting to one and all from

FINAL OFFERS INVITED 15 & 16 Henry Street, Roscommon Town, Co. Roscommon Substantial Commercial Opportunity

Substantial Commercial premises over 2 floors with a detached commercial building to rear. Informal tenancies in place with Physical Therapy Clinic and Dental Design Studio. Enquiries now invited. Guide Price: €150,000 + VAT if applicable

GOFF STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN

T: 090 66 30001

from you with a view to discussing your case in strict confidence without any obligation. We look forward to hearing from you. Remember, please talk to us before appointing your valuer and negotiator.

• Experienced and Qualified Valuers & Negotiators in ALL aspects of CPO claims • Successfully acted for over 70% of landowners on the completed Ballaghaderreen bypass route • Decision to appoint your valuer & negotiator is fast approaching. • Remember, the value of your lands, except for road beds and turbary plots, is only one aspect of your claim. • We will deal with your total claim professionally & confidentially and as we are a local firm we are available for meetings to discuss your case at all times. • Full mapping service available at our office. • Remember Valuation/Negotiators fees are paid for on your behalf by the acquiring Authority. Do not make any decision until you talk to us. Contact us at 094 9860039, 087 8120339 or email: jameskilcoyne@eircom.net

Hugely successful year at Property Partners Earley Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are very pleased to report a hugely busy and active 2015 in what they describe as a “very positive year of sales”. John Earley commented: “Thankfully we have experienced one of the busiest years of trading for many seasons and have witnessed a huge improvement in the market throughout the year. This year we have recorded some of the highest prices achieved for many years due to the renewed confidence in the market. “Commercial investment activity has increased significantly with our firm agreeing deals on a number of high pro-

file properties over the year to include a number of primely located and tenanted properties in Roscommon, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, Ballinasloe & Tuam in Co. Galway among others. The renewed demand for development land is very encourageing and shows renewed market confidence. “Demand for residential properties has increased substantially over the past 12 months and has resulted in a shortage of stock in most areas. It is still more econimical to purchase rather than rent and this in turn will further squeeze the supply chain going forward. With a big shortage of

zoned residential lands available patricurarly in the more populated centres, this will restrict development going forward. “Roll on 2016! We look forward to the New Year full of optimism. Taking the current levels of activity that we are witnessing last seen in the boom years, we anticipate that the market will remain boyant. There is still terrific value to be found in the market and people can now make the purchase decision with confidence. We look forward to the year ahead and welcome both vendors and purchasers alike seeking advice in the property market.”

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople

Gerry Coffey reviews another successful year 2015 proved to be one of the busiest years of selling for Williamstown-based auctioneer, Gerry Coffey. Many sales were achieved, and many properties were sold in excess of their asking price. This is a clear indication that prices have bottomed out and highlights the return of market activity particularly among first-time buyers and UK residents. Many rural properties that were static for a few years also sold in 2015, according to Gerry. “In the past year we have sold properties in the following areas: Ballaghaderreen, Castlerea, Ballinlough, Lisacul, Ballyhaunis, Williamstown, Glenamaddy, Dunmore, Kilkerrin, Cloonfad, Aughamore and Moylough. “Some properties have even sold above the reserve price which is testament to the excellent value the region has to offer.” Gerry is in a buoyant mood for property sales in 2016. The market has bottomed out and people with money

in the bank have come to the realisation that now is the best time to make a property investment, says the Williamstown auctioneer. Gerry also points out that houses in rural areas have almost sold out due to their price – you can buy a house now for substantially less than it would cost to build, he says. “We can see an improvement in the economy; property prices have bottomed out and we now have a shortage of good quality rural properties at realistic prices. “Due to our recent sales, we now require all types of properties to sell in all areas at North Galway, West Roscommon and East Mayo. I would be delighted to give an honest market value for your property. To have your residential, commercial or farmland included for sale please contact me immediately. Give your property the exposure to worldwide markets through our firm. “Remember our motto, we don’t talk about results we achieve them.”

Land Sales In the last year Gerry sold many farms both by Private Treaty and by Public Auction, with some record prices achieved for the area. Gerry sold a circa 151acre farm at Moigh Upper, Cloonfad by Public Auction for €1.04 million recently to a member of the Lannon family in Ballyhaunis. In the last 12 months, Gerry has overseen the sale of a number of important farmlands – again at record prices achieved for the area. Many other farms sold by Gerry in 2015 made from €4,000 to €9,000 per acre. Gerry has been busy with enquiries for farmlands from both local farmers and farmers from outside the region and a number of UK clients who are looking for stand-alone plots of land in one blocks investments with the strength of sterling been strong. Currently the demand for good quality lands is outstripping supply according to Gerry. As a part-time farmer, Gerry is well versed in farming

Charity and fundraising auctions Gerry Coffey lives in Granlahan and is wellknown for his involvement with the GAA and as the former Chairman of local GAA club, Michael Glavey’s. Gerry has also offered service to many voluntary organisations. Gerry would be delighted to help any sporting or community organisation, free of charge, in the running of a public auction to raise funds.

Peace Commissioner Gerry has also been appointed a Peace Commissioner (P.C.) and is available for document signing.

IPAV Council Gerry has been a long-standing member of Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers (IPAV) and was recently elected to IPAV national council and the IPAV rural affairs committee. IPAV is the voice of Auctioneers & Valuers in Ireland.

matters. If you are considering renting, leasing, selling or buying land in 2016 give Gerry a call first.

Valuations Gerry continues to improve his business by completing courses for all aspects of auctioneering, and was

awarded the REV status valuer in 2014. “As one of the best recognised valuers in the region, I am available for all types of valuations including probate, property transfer, expert court witness, insurance, accounting valuations, marital separation, and fair deal.”

Due to unprecedented sales in the last few months from first-time buyers & increased UK enquiries, Gerry Coffey Auctioneers now require the following type of properties: Rural bungalows, country cottages, farms for sale, rent or lease, lands for planting and existing forestry and commercial properties. Talk to Gerry on 094-9643600 or 0863856050.

Christmas greetings Gerry & Anne Coffey would like to extend a sincere Happy Christmas and a prosperous and healthy 2016, to all our loyal clients and customers. We thank you for your support.

GERRY COFFEY

Web: www.gerrycoffey.ie Email: info@gerrycoffey.ie

AUCTIONEER | VALUER | ESTATE AGENT

Tel. 094 964 3600. F. 094 964 3606. M. 086 385 6050

Main Street, Williamstown, Co. Galway

A SELECTION OF PROPERTIES SOLD BY GERRY COFFEY IN 2015

O S

Dunmore

Williamstown

O S

Moorefield Farm

This space could be selling your property in 2016

D L

Williamstown

Glenamaddy

Moylough

D L

D L O

Williamstown

FOR A FULL LIST OF OUR PROPERTIES CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE www.gerrycoffey.ie Gerry & Anne Coffey would like to extend a sincere Happy Christmas and a Prosperous and Healthy 2016, to all our loyal clients and customers. We thank you for your support.

SOLD AT AUCTION CLOONFAD LANDS SOLD AT AUCTION FOR €1.04 million achieved for 151 acres farm at Cloonfad. Similar Required Aughamore 33 Acres with slatted sheds

SOLD Land Granlahan 22 acres

SOLD NEW TO MARKET 28 acres of prime lands at Kiltevna Dunmore Granlahan 7.23 acres

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

EARLEY 090 6626579

“Go with the winners in 2016”

PROPERTY PARTNERS EARLEY

EARLEY 090 6626579

SOLD A SAMPLE OF SOME OF OUR SALES DURING 2015: SOLD C. 63 acres with residence at Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo

The Lough Ree Arms Hotel, Lanesboro

SOLD

B&B property Kiltoom, Athlone.

House at Athleague.

SOLD c. 41 acres at Carrick, Kiltoom.

SOLD

SOLD Commercial site and 6 no units at Circular Rd, Roscommon.

SALE AGREED Tullys Hotel, The Square, Castlerea

Prime Restaurant Property at Custume Pier, Athlone.

SOLD

SALE AGREED

Residence at Celtic Ave, Roscommon town.

Penthouse Apartment at Custume Pier, Athlone.

Former Character Schoolhouse, Ballinaheglish

SOLD Residence at Tibohine, Ballaghaderreen.

The Hazel Pub, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo.

3 x Houses at Cloonslanor, Strokestown.

SOLD

Regans Public House, The Square, Roscommon.

c. 29 acres with residence at Fourmilehouse, Roscommon. .

SOLD

3 number house at Aughnacliffe, Co. Longford.

3 no investment units at Auburn Retail Park, Athlone.

SOLD BY AUCTION House at Lanesboro St, Roscommon.

SOLD

SALE AGREED Prime Warehouse at Lung, Ballaghaderreen.

SALE AGREED Garage property, Baylough, Athlone

c. 31 acres with residence at Ballinafad, Strokestown.

SALE AGREED

SOLD

SALE AGREED

SOLD

SOLD BY AUCTION

Commercial Units at IDA Business Park, Tuam, Co. Galway.

SOLD Substantial commercial property, Dunlo St, Ballinasloe.

SALE AGREED

6 number Student Apartments at Croi Oige, Athlone.

SALE AGREED

STONE COURT, THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON Tel. 090 66 26579. Fax: 090 66 25405. Email: jearley@propertypartners.ie

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople

Earley

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

WWW.PROPERTYPARTNERS.IE

“GO WITH THE WINNERS IN 2016” John Earley OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED FROM THURSDAY 24TH DECEMBER AND WILL REOPEN ON WEDNESDAY THE 30TH DECEMBER” FIPAV 086 2551380 As 2015 draws to a close, Property Partners Earley Roscommon wish to thank all its valued customers and

friends for their continued support over the past year and we wish them a very Happy Christmas and a prosperous and peaceful 2016. John Earley FIPAV

David Diffley

MIPAV 086 8952283

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople

Cregg O’Callaghan

e c a l p o n s ’ e r e e m h o T h like Wishing Everyone A Safe & Peaceful Christmas & Prosperous New Year

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople Advertisement

DNG Cregg O’Callaghan in Roscommon town – part of Ireland’s premier agency

John O’Callaghan Mobile: 087 6904895 Email: john@home2home.ie < JOHN O’CALLAGHAN The DNG Group is a multi-disciplinary property advisory practice based in Roscommon town covering the whole of the county of Roscommon. DNG Cregg O’Callaghan are part of Ireland’s premier agency with a branch network which extends to just under 72 branded offices located in virtually every major city and town in the country. This alone offers our clients access to national and local adver-

ing up our expertise. DNG Cregg O’Callaghan offer professionalism at its best with innovative marketing capabilities through our branch network unrivalled by alternative property agents and all this is offered at more than competitive rates. DNG are experts at moving properties and currently have all of the properties being offered for sale being under offer which means that we are looking for your property to sell and know that we can sell it.

tising at local advertising rates as well as a host of additional print and digital marketing. The DNG Cregg O’Callaghan team consists of five agents and have been in business for over fifteen years being there before the boom and throughout the bust. The principles in the firm have a combined thirty years of property experience with qualifications to boot such as Bachelors Degree in Business and Legal, City and Guilds Degrees as well as a host of alternative qualifications back-

Where is the market at? Renting There are fewer homes advertised for rent now than there has been in the previous ten years. This bodes well for property owners and not so well for searching tenants. The average rent in the county of Roscommon is €534 per month representing a 6.6% increase on the previous year. Below charts the different categories of average rents across the County for different property types: 1 Bed Apartment 2 Bed House 3 Bed House 4 Bed House €385 €428 €532 €572

Bernard Cregg Mobile: 086 8237548 Email: bfcregg@hotmail.com PSRA: 001189

How are DNG different?

We offer premier advertising packages unrivalled by our competitors and, at limited time only, with every property listed the moment, for a our clients get: * A FREE advertisement in the Irish Inde pendent Property Supplement * A FREE advertisement in the Local Pape r * A FREE advertisement on all of Irela nd’s * A FREE advertisement in the UK’s large Premier Websites * A FREE advertisement in DNG Quarterlyst Property Website * A FREE advertisement on our own prop Property Magazine * A Discounted Building Energy Rating erty APP * As well as very competitive rates WH EN we sell your property No other agency can offer such a superb We offer superb local expertise with theadvertising campaign and all this as standard. DNG has its own marketing and IT depabacking of Ireland’s premier property brand. rtments ensuring we are always at the top terms of technology and branding. of our game in “Our business is based on exceeding our to buyers and sellers alike. We pride ours client’s expectations and offering an unparalleled service elves on our people, agents and advisors the best at what they do, working with dete rmination to offer a premium service to who are simply the highest integrity guaranteed.” our clients with

New legislation With effect from the 4th of December, 2015 your landlord has the right to review the rent once every 2 years (increased from one year). Unless the accommodation has changed substantially, it cannot be reviewed more often than this. Under the Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Act 2015, the following rules apply from 4 December

the proposed new rent and the date from which it is to take effect. The notice must be in writing, in a form that meets the requirements of legislation. Emails, text messages and spoken messages are not valid forms of notice. With effect from 4 December 2015, you must get at least 90 days’ notice (increased from 28 days).

2015: • Your rent cannot be increased until 24 months after the start of your tenancy • If your rent was reviewed at any time in the last 24 months, it cannot be reviewed again until 24 months after the date of the last review • Your landlord must give you proper notice of the amount of

Cregg O’Callaghan PSRA No.: 001189

19 Abbey Street, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

Tel.: 090- 666 5100 / 071 964 0000 4 Bed Detached Bungalow

Buying or selling The average asking price for a property in Roscommon is €110,374 which is an annual increase of 11.8%. This means that property prices in Roscommon are rising at an average of 1% per month and we anticipate that this is going to continue until we get to a stable property market, i.e. at least back to the cost of rebuilding the property.

Cambo, Croghan, Co. Roscommon

The average asking prices for property in Roscommon is as set out below: 1 Bed Apartment €38,000

2 Bed House €41,000

3 Bed House €62,000

4 Bed House €132,000

We are currently experiencing high levels of interest from purchasers throughout the county which is being fueled by a variety of factors. Driving this demand is the strength of sterling and almost 30% of our sales are currently to UK buyers. One pound sterling is currently worth approximately €1.40 which means that UK buyers are experiencing almost a 30% discount over already relatively small asking prices. Furthermore the gross average yields on properties in the county obviously blow Bank Interest rates out of the water with the following being indicative. 1 Bed Apartment 12.2%

2 Bed House 12.7%

3 Bed House 10.3%

4 Bed House 5.2%

This is why so many people are getting back into property as an investment as it makes sense especially with house prices currently bouncing off the bottom of our property crash. Overall the property market is improving strongly in both rental and sales. We still have some way to go to achieve a normalised market, but considering where we have come from, in terms our the biggest property crash in the western world, we anticipate a continued growth in property prices and a welcome anticipation of a normalised property market. *Statistics based on DAFT House Price Report Q3 2015 and Daft Rental Report Q3 2015

Detached House - 4 Beds - 1 Bath This deceptively large four bedroom bungalow is located only six kilometers from the bustling town of Carrick on Shannon and therefore all local facilities. The busy town of Carrick on Shannon offers a host of recreational and shopping amenities such as shops like Tesco, Supervalu, Lidl, Aldi, a cinema, swimming pool as well as many restaurants, bars and clubs. This home is ideally located on a small quiet tertiary road which is used for local access only and therefore offers privacy while not being remote. It is located centrally for fishing being between the two fishing lakes of Cambo and Lisdaly and overlooking the ruins of Cambo Castle. The property itself consists of four good size bedrooms, a small study, living room and kitchen / diner. Price €75,000 Ber Rating: F

Buying or Selling - Get it done with 4 Bed Detached House Oakport, Cootehall, Co. Roscommon

2 Storey - 4 Bed - 4 Baths This beautiful new four bedroom detached home is located in the very scenic area of Cootehall. Cootehall is situated only 4km from the main Sligo to Dublin primary N4 Route and is located on the banks of the Shannon River. The village is well kept and has a large and busy public mooring in the centre of the village with local amenities such as a playground and public green areas. Cootehall is only 10km from both busy towns of Carrick on Shannon and Boyle and thereby close to all local amenities such as restaurants, bars, cinema, swimming pool, large retail shops such as Tesco, Aldi, Lidl etc and the bustling tourist and nightlife of Carrick on Shannon. This home itself is located in the centre of the village in a fully occupied and fully completed development within the town. The development itself has recently had a large number of sales due to its location, quality of the properties and the development as well as its close proximity to the primary road network and local amenities. Price €147,000 Ber Rating: B3

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople cathal o’brien estate agents M.I.P.A.V.

SOLD

THE HOUSE SOLD NAME

SOLD

Rian Rosan, Castlerea.

SOLD

Frenchlawn Ballintubber.

SOLD

Lissergool, Tibohine.

SOLD

Tibohine, Ballaghaderreen.

SOLD

Boyle Road Frenchpark.

Brennamore, Loughglynn.

Galway Road, Roscommon.

SOLD

Laragh, Ballintubber.

Carane, Ballintubber.

SOLD

Killina, Elphin

Land Sold 2015

SOLD

C. 50 Acres at Rathlena, Ballinlough. SOLD C. 28 Acres at Ballindollaghan, Castlerea. SOLD C. 25 Acres at Loughconway, Drumshanbo. SOLD C. 25 Acres at Fauleens, Carracastle. SOLD C. 92 Acres at Scardaun, Claremorris. SOLD C. 55 Acres at Drumbollog, Drumshanbo. SOLD

Racecourse Road, Roscommon.

SOLD

The Plains, Boyle.

Just a sample of property sales at Cathal O’Brien Estate Agents successfully SOLD in 2015 and numerous others Sale Agreed and under offer. For full property listing visit our website on www.cathalobrien.ie. To get your property sold in 2016 call us immediately for Free Appraisal and Listing.

“WISHING ALL OUR CUSTOMERS HEALTH AND PROSPERITY IN 2016” CLEABOY, BALLINTUBBER, CO. ROSCOMMON Mob: 087-2613617 or 094 9655313 www.cathalobrien.ie or e-mail info@cathalobrien.ie

‘An outstanding year’ for Nigel Dineen Auctioneer Nigel Dineen says he has enjoyed an outstanding year and explains that the primary reason for such a significant sales escalation is the pickup in the economy adding that this has been verified by recent figures published regarding increased consumer spending. “There is still opportunity for gaining excellent value for money though” Nigel commented. “It has been our pleasure in recent times to facilitate and close sales where we know that our customers are highly satisfied and confident in the knowledge that they have made wise decisions. “We have numerous UK clients on our books, who are hoping to buy Irish properties and avail of the strong sterling situation. Although such clients are seeking value for money, it also puts vendors in a strong position, whereby many had decided to sit out the recession and await an uplift in the economy. “In these situations vendors have been particularly pleased with their transac-

tions in 2015” comments Nigel. “Judging by the number of properties coming in and the nature of queries we are receiving, we are very confident that business will continue to remain strong as the momentum is gathering and building and overall I am very optimistic about 2016. “We are looking forward to a continuation of current business activity and an extremely busy year in 2016. We invite all enquiries, which will be dealt with in the strictest confidence. “As always, we are seeking new properties to satisfy a very high demand from our broad and diverse clientele base. So if you have a house, farm, land, forestry land, commercial property for sale or you would simply like a confidential word of advice, please call me.” Nigel concludes: “I would like to wish all of our customers, past, present and future, a very happy and peaceful Christmas and every blessing in 2016 and I look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.”

Most successful year to date for Cathal O’Brien Cathal O’Brien, MIPAV, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon reports his strongest year of sales to date since setting up his business in March 2012. There was an excellent level of sales recorded and increased demand across all sectors of the property market. Cathal reports that for the first time in a number of years that there is a ‘feelgood’ factor back in the marketplace with enquiry levels well up and confidence restored. He cites a number of reasons for this, principally the huge sterling differential for UK-based buyers, the absolute value on offer in the property market, poor returns on offer for depositors, and the banks’ willingness to lend finance. He looks forward to 2016 with supreme optimism and confidence. Cathal offers a wide portfolio of property throughout Co. Roscommon and beyond and has concluded many successful sales throughout 2015. From residential sales including countryside properties, land sales and forest sales, it has been a busy year with excellent prices being recorded. He has sold cot-

tages starting at €40,000 to large detached properties up to €250,000 with demand ever-improving. Land sales and demand remain strong with prices achieved up to €8,500 per acre for top quality lands back to prices of €4,000 to €4,700 per acre for lands suitable for afforestation. Forest sales are a huge part of his business and Cathal is known countrywide in this sector with a large investor client base, both private and corporate. He reports demand particularly strong for maturing forests and has just received a very large order from European investors to purchase 500 acres nationwide. He also has smaller investors seeking younger plantations with farmer premium attached. For a free valuation or listing on your property call Cathal today in total confidence. He is open for viewings over the Christmas period by appointment. Finally, Cathal would like to thank all his customers and friends for their support in 2015 and looking forward to their continued support and wishes everyone health and prosperity in 2016.

Farmhouse ‘with character’ in Ballinlough Having sold the farm, Cathal O’Brien Auctioneer is now inviting offers for this character farmhouse property standing on c.1 acre with private avenue approach. It’s situated on a gentle

hillside setting offering full unspoilt views of the surrounding countryside in this scenic location. The residence is in need of complete modernisation but all services are laid on. It’s a generous site area

with some stone outbuildings. It would represent an ideal renovation project in a superb location and we now invite viewings and offers. Enquiries invited. For more information

contact Cathal O´Brien, MIPAV, Auctioneer, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon. 087-2613617, 094 9655313, email info@ cathalobrien.ie or log onto www.cathalobrien.ie or Daft.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

PropertyPeople

SAMPLE OF PROPERTIES sold in 2015 The proof is in the Puddinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

S S

D L O

Shannacloon, Ballinagare, Roscommon

D L O

Doon, Gurteen, Sligo

D L O

1/2 St Ciarans Park, Roscommon

D L O

Castplunkett, Roscommon

D L O

Cloontrast, Castlerea, Roscommon

e l a S ed re g A Castlerea, Roscommon

e l a S ed e r Ag

Knockagonnel, Ballymoe, Galway

e l a S ed e r Ag Ballinlough, Roscommon

e l a S ed e r Ag

Ballintubber, Roscommon

Cregga Court, Elphin, Roscommon

e l a S ed re g A

e l a S ed e r Ag

Tulsk, Roscommon

Acres Hill, Ballinameen, Roscommon

D L O

Ard Ri, Athlone, Westmeath

D L O

Ballaghaderreen, Roscommon

Meadowbrook, Tulsk, Roscommon

Strokestown, Roscommon

D L O

Rookhill, Newbridge, Galway

4 bed semi Clibourne Way, Moate, Westmeath

Paddocks, Athleague, Roscommon

D L O

Ballinameen, Roscommon

t a d n l o S tio c u A Cloonfower, Castlerea, Roscommon

Brackloon, Ballyhaunis, Mayo

e l a rS

D L O

Tallaghan, Ballinagare, Roscommon

e l a rS

4 bed semi The Oaks, Frenchpark, Roscommon

Nigel would like to wish a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous and Healthy New Year, to all his loyal clients and customers.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

FarmingPeople Castlerea Mart Report Sale, Thursday, December 17: Four hundred cattle were on offer at our last sale for 2015. Trade finished on a bright note with strong demand on offer for all classes of stock on offer at our last sale. Store heifers and heifer weanlings reported very strong prices, while the bullock, weanling bulls and dry cows reported good clearances with breeding stock also in strong demand. Sample prices: Bullocks: Ch 490kgs – €1295; Ch 460kgs – €1195; AA 445kgs – €1020; Lim 550kgs €1435. Heifers: Ch 420kgs – €1195; Ch 395kgs – €1060; Ch 480kgs – €1250; Ch 585kgs – €1470; Ch 500kgs €1220. Dry cows: AA 660kgs – €1210; Lm 705kgs – €1260; Ch 770kgs – €1440; Lm 695kgs – €1270; AA 720kgs – €1290. Weanling heifers: Chx 295kgs – €995; AA 285kgs – €805; Ch 325kgs – €1070; AAX 305kgs – €935; Lm 230kgs – €800. Weanling bulls: Ch 295kgs – €910; Ch 290kgs – €870; Lm 270kgs – €845; Ch 395kgs – €1020; Ch 160kgs – €510. Sales resume at Castlerea Mart on Thursday, January 7, with a sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves and weanlings. Castlerea Mart would like to wish all its customers a Merry Christmas and prosperous 2016.

Serving Farmers since 1985

THINKING OF FORESTRY:

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

Colm Freyne BSc (Forestry)

Galway/Roscommon Ph: 087-6606043

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

Tel: 094 9542668 www.westernforestry.com

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

TOM ROGERS

Co-ordinated approach for farmers affected by ﬂooding At a recent meeting IFA, Teagasc and the Department of Agriculture, agreed to work closely together in a co-ordinated way to assess the difficulties being experienced on farms as a result of flooding and any impact of fodder loss or damage to buildings. Tom Turley, IFA Flood

Project Team Chairman, welcomed the commitment from Teagasc that they would carry out an audit of the impact flooding has had on farms over the last number of weeks. At the meeting, Tom Turley set out a number of key actions needed to address the severe problems for

farmers and rural communities as a result of the widespread flooding. IFA is calling for: a flood relief fund to be established, which according to the organsiation must be much broader than the one announced last week; farmers must also be included to help them offset the cost

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price guaranteed

Your farm understood At Mannion Insurances we understand what farmers want

also called for all outstanding farm payments to be made to the 500 farmers in flood-affected areas whose payment is due to them. Tom Turley has also reiterated his call for a single authority for the management of river systems to avoid inflicting more hardship on communities.

IFA welcomes TAMS approvals IFA Rural Development Chairman, Flor McCarthy, has welcomed the commencement of TAMS approvals. Approvals have commenced for dairy investments under the Young Farmer Capital Investment Scheme and approvals for Priority One Dairy Equipment cases are also to issue before Christmas. Flor McCarthy said these approvals are long overdue but welcome to those farmers who urgently need to proceed with work. He said, “These approvals are particularly relevant for dairy farmers whose window to carry out investment is very narrow.” IFA is reminding farmers to ensure that any equipment that is purchased for grant aid is dated after the date of formal Department of Agriculture approval.

Daily collection

Keep your farm safe Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

of damage to their buildings and loss of fodder and flood-relief projects which are still at planning stage such as south Galway and Bandon, Co. Cork to be fast-tracked. There is a helpline 0761064408 and IFA have called on farmers to avail of it. The organisation has

Jim Mannion (Insurances) Ltd T/A as Mannion Insurances is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Weekend

PEOPLE

SOCIAL PEOPLE:

See pages 64 and 65

At Star Wars: The Force Awakens

Pictured in C&L Cinema and Leisure on Friday night were Pictured in C&L Cinema and Leisure on Friday night were Carol Foley and Ross Davis. Picture: Andrew Fox Douglas Almedida and Michaela Dunova. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in C&L Cinema and Leisure on Friday night were Tina Kelly and Philip Murphy. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in C&L Cinema and Leisure on Friday night were Damien Hogan, Kyle Rogers and Stephen Casey. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in C&L Cinema and Leisure, Roscommon on Friday night were Ethan and Stephen Young. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in C&L Cinema and Leisure on Friday night were Claire and Ian Murray. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS Wishing all our patrons a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas from all at

Wishing all our patrons a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas from all at

Hamrock’s

JJ HARLOWS

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

- Market Square, Roscommon -

St. Stephen’s Day - Music 4-7pm

Telephone: 090 6626225

Henry & The Usual Suspects

Christmas Eve

St. Stephen’s Night - Music with

Friday 25th

Thursday 24th

Christmas Day - Closed

COUNTRY COMFORT

Saturday 26th:

Stephens’ Night with

New Year’s Eve - Music with

Sean Brennan

Liam Kelly DJ

Saturday 2nd December

Walk The Line

Sunday 27th:

Shane Mannion DJ Monday 28th:

Hickory Wind

Wishing all our Patrons a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Music and entertainment all over the Festive Season Oscars Venue - for all your party needs

Contact: JP on 087 1336684

The Square, Roscommon Tel.: 090 6665640

Wednesday 23rd December: Music by

Duck + Kevin

Pictured at the new Star Wars movie in C&L Cinema and Leisure, Roscommon on Friday night were Erin and John Whewell. Picture: Andrew Fox

New Year’s Eve Party JJ Harlow’s Christmas line-up Open Mic Night Friday 1st:

JJ Harlow’s on Market Square, Roscommon town, have a thrilling lineup confirmed for the festive season. The pub is sure to be full to capacity on Christmas Eve, as family and friends share a few drinks. Following the traditional Christmas Day break, the entertainment programme will resume on St Stephen’s Day, with DJ

Liam Kelly providing the music. On December 27, DJ Shane Mannion will perform, while, the following night, top band Hickory Wind will entertain the patrons. A great party is planned for New Year’s Eve, with the finer details yet be confirmed. On New Year’s Day, while not try participate in

the Open Mic Night? All are welcome; sign up at 9 pm. The following day, the Ronan Gallagher Band will perform, while on January 3, Ciaran, Conor and Gary (CCG) will play. There is no cover charge for any of the gigs, which begin at 10 pm approximately unless otherwise stated.

ST. STEPHEN’S NIGHT

– All welcome, sign up at 9pm Saturday 2nd:

The Ronan Gallagher Band Sunday 3rd:

Ciaran, Conor & Gary (CCG) * No Cover Charge, all gigs are at 10pm approx unless stated otherwise * Search for us on facebook: JJ-Harlows- The- Square-Roscommon-Town

Saturday, 26th December: Music by

Local Amigos Lynn Treacy & Crew

BEER OF THE WEEK! St Mel’s Pale ale , Longford

Sunday, 27th December:

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.

Rambling Bob

NEW YEAR’S EVE Thursday, 31st December:

John Shannon

JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Friday 1st December:

Deckie Walsh

Thursday 31st:

Pictured in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery for a performance by the Roscommon Solstice Choir were Margaret Treacy, Siobhán Menton and Orla Keegan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

Beár An Ráille

cinema & leisure complex

The Railway Bar

Abbeytown, Roscommon 0906630748 find us on facebook

Christmas Entertainment ** 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 -

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

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

Carthy’s

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

minnows

Sunday 27th—Thursday 31st Dec

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

Daily Times

A CHRISTMAS STAR (G)

12:00 (KMC); 14:00

BROOKLYN (12A)

14:00

CHRISTMAS WITH THE COOPERS (12A)

14:30; 19:20

DADDY’S HOME (12A)

16:50; 19:00; 21:35

FROZEN SING ALONG RE-RELEASE (G)

12:20 (KMC)

IN THE HEART OF THE SEA 2D (12A)

14:15; 16:25; 19:00

IN THE HEART OF THE SEA 3D (12A)

16:00

KRAMPUS (15A)

21:40

SISTERS (15A)

16:50; 21:40

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

16:00; 18:50; 21:10

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

18:35; 21:25

THE GOOD DINOSAUR 2D (PG)

11:30; 13:45

THE QUEEN, MAGIC OF THEOF ICE THE WARRIOR THESNOW SNOW QUEEN: MAGIC ICE (G) MIRROR

12.30 (G) 12:20

Porterhouse & Guest Accommodation

The Country Ballroom

TULSK INN

Wednesday 23rd December:

Toxic Twins

St. Stephen’s Night

St. Stephen’s Night:

Edge Addiction

Sean Brennan Adm €5 in the Paul Watchorn Front Bar in the Ray Montana Ballroom

Music from 10-12 No cover charge

Tulsk Lord Edward’s Party Night

Deckie Walsh

Sunday 27th

Sunday, 27th December: In the back Bar

New Year’s Eve -

The Sensational

Monday 28th December:

John Shannon

Tuesday 29th December:

Friday 1st Pictured in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery for a performance by the Roscommon Solstice Choir were . Picture: Andrew Fox

Billy Garvin

Dave & Al in the Ballroom

Saturday 2nd Sunday 3rd

Private Party in the Ballroom

Carmel McLoughlin

Ballroom Admission €5

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

Pictured in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery for a performance by the Roscommon Solstice Choir were Andrew Reynolds, Eimear Reynolds, Des Willoughby, Marie Matthews and Declan Donoghue. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

John’s of Doughil

Wishing all our patrons a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas the Clancy family

CLANCY’S

THE HOLLY TREE BAR

Sunday, 27th December - Music by

Abbey Street, Roscommon

Jimmy Hussey

Telephone: 090 66 26506

New Year’s Eve - Thursday, 31st December

Thursday, 31st December - New Year’s Eve

Ring in the New Year with

Perfect Match

Shannon Folk

(2-piece Country & Irish Band) All parties catered for

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

Wishing one and all a very Happy Christmas and a Healthy & Prosperous New Year. Thank you for your custom in 2015, from John & family

Castlecoote Lodge BAR & LOUNGE Wednesday, 23rd December

25 Card Game Starts 9.30pm.

At a Volunteers’ Reception hosted by Roscommon Town Team in Roscommon Tourist Office/ County Museum were Cllr Orla Leyden, Gerry Jago and Rita Oates. Picture: Andrew Fox

St. Stephen’s Day - Saturday, 26th December Live music and open mic for the

The Silver Eel

Grange, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel: (071) 9633299

WREN BOYS New Year’s Eve - Thursday, 31st December

Christmas Guide at The Silver Eel

New Year’s Eve Party Music by - Simply Me

Christmas Eve 24th December - Bar open 4pm

- Serving Mulled Wine CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY St. Stephen’s Day 26th - Bar open 2pm.

Tel: 087 6335511

C.C.G Band

at 7pm. No Food Served. Music with Sunday 27th - Bar open 12pm - Serving Food 12pm - 8pm. New Year’s Eve Bar open 2pm - Food Served 4pm - 8pm.

Wishing all our patrons a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas from all at

Dalton’s Pub Fuerty, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 6766469

Diarmuid Beirne

Music with at 10pm followed by DJ. At a Volunteers’ Reception hosted by Roscommon Town Team in Roscommon Tourist Office/ County Museum were Larry Brennan, Sarah Browne, John O’Connor and Caitlín McConn. Picture: Andrew Fox

Saturday, 26th December - Music with

Web: www.silvereel.ie Email: info@silvereel.ie

Devine’s

Thursday, 31st December - Music with

Hugh Collins

Fireside Lounge

facebook.com/daltons.fuerty

Athlone Road, Roscommon

Clashaganny, Tulsk

Wednesday, 23rd December Music by

At a Volunteers’ Reception hosted by Roscommon Town Team in Roscommon Tourist Office/ County Museum were Cllr Domnick Connolly, Elise Donaldson, Mary Gleeson and Rev. Alister Donaldson. Picture: Andrew Fox

Christmas Party Nights

The Ramblers

Tom Moran

Out Back

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year from Michael & Staff

St. Stephen’s Night: DJ Daire Gilleran

Cranogue

New Year’s Eve: DJ Daire Gilleran JANUARY

Campbell

Saturday 2nd: DJ Daire Gilleran Wishing all our customers a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas and every good wish for 2016

Jimmy Lennon

Saturday, 26th December Stephen’s night

New Year’s Eve - Thursday, 31st December

Wednesday 23rd: Derek Campbell CHRISTMAS DRAW

Friday 1st: Derek

Christmas Draw

Tuesday, 29th December

DECEMBER

Sunday 27th: Shane

Saturday, 2nd January: Food Served 12pm - 8.30pm Sunday, 3rd January: Food Served 12pm - 8pm Irene, Colin & Jackie would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas & Peaceful New Year for 2016

ENSUITE ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE

Kevin Garvey

FOXES BAR

NEW YEARS DAY - Bar open 2pm - Food Served 4pm - 8pm

At a Volunteers’ Reception hosted by Roscommon Town Team in Roscommon Tourist Office/ County Museum were Mary Gleeson, Lorna Brennan, Mark Kerrigan and Marian Keigher. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

PJ’s

The Saddlers Inn

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

CASTLECOOTE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Kingsland, Boyle Tel. (071) 9662679/ (087) 2595560 www.saddlersinn.com

TELEPHONE: (090) 66 63066

Top Level St Stephen’s Night: Silver Dollar Christmas Eve:

Monday 28th December

JAZZ NIGHT

Sunday, 27th December:

Matt, Donie, Noel, Aidan & Wally

The Noel Cassidy Band

MUSIC SESSIONS CONTINUE ON TUESDAY NIGHTS

Monday 28th December:

The Davitt Band

Thursday 31st December: New Year’s Eve Party

Thursday 31st December -

Ring in the New Year with

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY NIGHT

Eamon McCann & his band

Music and Refreshments served

HOUSE PARTY/DANCE

One man band available to play in your home - Country, Old-time, Rock n’ Roll, Irish, Sing-along, etc

Tel: 087 4425970

The Home of Country Music

Annual Charity Tractor Drive Registration from 12:30pm. Music New Year’s Night with: The Duets Friday 1st January:

Pictured in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery for a performance by the Roscommon Solstice Choir were Cllr Lawrence and Bernie Fallon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Saturday 2nd January:

Sean Cuddy and his Band Sunday, 3rd January: John Crummy and The Emeralds Wishing all our customers and friends a Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Prosperous 2016. Thank you for your continued support. Free function room available for all events Visit our website at Pictured in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery for a performance by the Roscommon Solstice Choir were Irene Coyle, Dawn Mullooly and Adrienne Martin. Picture: Andrew Fox

www.saddlersinn.com or follow us on Facebook

Pictured in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery for a performance by the Roscommon Solstice Choir were Bridget Giblin, Cllr Eugene Murphy and Marie Matthews. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery for a performance by the Roscommon Solstice Choir were Christopher, Cathal and Karol Ferrick. Picture: Andrew Fox

QUICK GUIDE TO TAXIS AND HACKNEYS…

CUT IT OUT:

Looking for a taxi or hackney over the festive season (or, for that matter, at any time of year)? Then make things easier by cutting out this special Roscommon People guide….which includes contact details for a number of taxis and hackneys in the locality. Cut out the entire guide or an individual advertisement ... the contact details are sure to come in handy!

Wishing all my customers a Peaceful Christmas and Happy New Year

ROSCOMMON PHONE-A-CAB 5

Celebrating 12 years in business

PADRAIG HEALY

Wishing all my customers a Peaceful Christmas and Happy New Year

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670

• Car & Mini Bus Hire • Wheelchair accessible • Call car direct

(086) 2714879

BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

Pictured in PJ’s in Castlecoote were Mary Shannon, Angela Dunne, Ann Hannon and John Hannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in PJ’s, Castlecoote were Kevin and Ann Kenny. Picture: Andrew Fox

t u o b A & t Ou Photographs: Andrew

Pictured in PJ’s, Castlecoote were Mike Keegan and Brian Neilan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Fox

PJ’s Castlecoote

Pictured in PJ’s in Castlecoote were Seán and Marie Kilgarriff. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in PJ’s in Castlecoote were Gerry Connaughton, Winifred Fallon, Margaret Smith and Daisy Robinson. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in PJ’s, Castlecoote were Michael and Bridie Raftery. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in PJ’s, Castlecoote were Alex Lopez and Tom Hogan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

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

Pictured in Án Tobar recently were Bríd and JJ Horan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Án Tobar recently were Catherine Curley and Paul Donoghue. Picture: Andrew Fox

t u o b A & t Ou

Án Tobar (Roscommon)

Photographs: Andrew

Fox

Pictured in Án Tobar recently were Cathy Brennan and Shane Duffy. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Án Tobar recently were Daniel O’Doherty and Jonathan Conteh. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Án Tobar recently were Kathleen and Aoife Donoghue. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Án Tobar recently were Michael Scanlon, Tom Mulhern, Andrew Donoghue, Padraig Scanlon and Wesley Hoare. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Án Tobar recently were Siobhán Gaughan and Majella Farrell. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 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

CHRISTMAS MEDICAL ROTA Monday 21st December - Normal surgeries Tuesday 22nd December - Normal surgeries Wednesday 23rd December - Normal surgeries Thursday 24th Christmas Eve - Contact own GP Surgery FROM 6PM CHRISTMAS EVE TO 9AM ON TUESDAY 29TH DECEMBER - Contact WESTDOC 1850 365 000 WEDNESDAY 30TH DECEMBER TO NEW YEAR’S EVE - Normal surgeries NEW YEAR’S DAY - Contact WESTDOC 1850 365 000

DOCTOR SURGERY

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

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

FREE CAR PARK AVAILABLE AT REAR OF SURGERY

PHONE: 090 66 25650

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

Patrick Lynch Clinical Dental Technician

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

ACCOUNTS

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

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

Tel: (043) 3326125, (087) 2251591.

Phone No: (087) 4136355

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

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

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!

CHIROPODIST

CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I.

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.

CHIMNEY

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

Email: clondra@iol.ie Web: www.patbaxterco.ie

CAREERS

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

TEL.: (087) 2315448 or (090) 6624797 Find us on facebook BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT FOR COMMUNIONS/CONFIRMATIONS Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

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

Department of Health Approved Every Monday - Cuan Aire Resource Centre, St. Patrick’s Street, Castlerea

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

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

By Appointment Only – Tel 087 2982214 Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

CHIMNEY CLEANING 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

• 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

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

< 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

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 CLEANING SERVICES

DRIVING LESSONS

DOCTORS’ ROTA

www.noelsdrivingschool.ie Email: noelsdrivingschool@gmail. com Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas and a great 2016!

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 25 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). < FOR SALE: Round bales of silage. €20 per bale. Tel: 086 3540273.

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

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.

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE • Woodchipping • Log Splitting • Tree Surgery • Hedge Cutting

Bernard Conroy Timber Clearance Ltd Tel: 087 2533101 or 090 66 22328 Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Peaceful New Year

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

(087) 9201818 Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

KENNELS LISBROCK BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY Brideswell, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

• Spacious Kennels provided • Spacious exercise areas outside • Short Term - Long Term boarding welcomed • Dogs walked on request. Micro-chipping service now available.

Tel: 087 2721757

For further details contact Mary (087) 6162191 or Barra (087) 9764250.

www.aobtherapies.com

www.lisbrockkennels.ie

www.facebook.com/ AOBTherapies

Members of IBKCA

PHYSICAL THERAPIST 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.

KENNELS 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

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

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

Located at Henry Street

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd. are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Alan & Nicola Devine for planning permission to construct an extension to the rear of the existing dwelling house, develop existing attic area and alter the roof structure over the existing front entrance at Demesne Td. Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd. CL Building, Racecourse Rd. Roscommon (Ph 0906665341) (Agent) info@conlonconsulting.ie This 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 and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

PLANNINGS

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

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.

< PROPERTY REQUIRED: Four bedroom house required on short-term lease (approximately 4 months). Roscommon area. Tel: 086 3007390. < TO LET: One Bedroom Apartment. All mod cons. Roscommon Town. Tel: 090 6625191

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

SOULMATES

REFLEXOLOGY

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.

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

SITUATIONS VACANT

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

(086) 2714879

ATHLEAGUE CABS 1-8 Seats Wheelchair Accessible

PADDY PURCELL 087-3186590

TOM KILDUFF CABS Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

< PERSON REQUIRED for part-time bar work in Strokestown area. Experience necessary. Please apply in writing with CV to Box No: 855, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < ROSCOMMON TOWN - LIVE IN: Woman to mind elderly lady. 4 days per week, €200. Must be caring and patient. Own sittingroom, bedroom, wifi, oil heating and food supplied. Call: 086 3595957.

SPECIAL NOTICES THANK YOU FROM ANNE MCCONN Sincere thanks to all who sent cards, offered prayers, help and support during my illness. Your kindness was appreciated.

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 HACKNEY SERVICE Tommy Gilligan, Roscommon

(086) 8099503 JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670

ROSCOMMON PEOPLE NEW YEAR’S EDITION The next edition of the Roscommon People will PUBLISHED ON THURSDAY, 7TH JANUARY Our deadline for this publication is 2.30PM ON TUESDAY 5TH JANUARY WE CANNOT GUARANTEE PUBLICATION AFTER THIS TIME

BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Classifieds/News TUITION 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

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

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169

LEAVING CERTIFICATE STUDENTS

Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

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

VAN AND MAN AVAILABLE 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.

USEFUL SERVICES DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS: WISHING ALL MY CUSTOMERS A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR Contact Paul on (086) 0538977. www.appliance-repairs.ie

Delivery, collections, house and flat removals.

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

Call John 086 4679798

Glamorous Dogs FUERTY, ROSCOMMON

KESHIA CASEY

Professional Dog Groomer

(087) 2731228 < 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?

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie WINDOW CLEANING < WINDOW CLEANING: Competitive rates. All areas covered. Also Gutters/fascias. Contact John: (087) 2291931.

THANKGIVINGS PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE For a Financial crisis... Here is a prayer for your money emergency. The traditional way to petition Saint Expedite is to take a white and a green candle; carve your name on them lengthwise. Light the candles and continue lighting the candles and praying to him until you receive his answer. Have faith and do not doubt his power or willingness to help you. Pray to Saint Expedite I call forth the Power and the presence of St. Expedite in my time of financial trouble. I offer my body, heart, mind and soul upon your altar of light. I have faith and trust and complete confidence that you will be my strength in this time of need. Quickly come to my assistance. Bring to me _________ (Clearly express what you want, and ask him to find a way to get it to you.) My financial need is urgent. Be my Light and Guide in this situation so that I may live with peace, love, prosperity and abundance and in the Praise of God. Amen. (Now promise to give Saint Expedite a specific offering if your desire is granted.) S.F.

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

LEGAL NOTICE REVISED

newsbriefs

FOLIO: 8244 COUNTY ROSCOMMON LANDS: Carrowroe REGISTERED OWNER: Thomas Clarence Edward Goff (1911) In the Matter of the Registration of 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

Roscommon/Athlone PTAA Annual Rafﬂe winners

Appointments

The Roscommon/Athlone Pioneer Total Abstinence Association annual raffle was held in St. Coman’s Club during their December monthly regional meeting. The lucky winners were – 1st Prize (€500): Shane Earley, Donamon; 2nd Prize (€200): Mary Casey, Kiltoom; 3rd Prize (€75): Seamus Ward, Cornaveigh, Creggs; 4th Prize (€75): Adrian Reynolds, Weekfield, Roscommon; 5th Prize (€50): Sean T. Kelly, Glinsk; 6th prize (€50): Peter Kelly, Golf Links Road, Roscommon. The regional annual dinner dance will be held in the Hodson Bay Hotel on Saturday, February 13th.

Paddy Kilduff, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon County Council and James Shevlin, National President, P.T.A.A., pictured at the Roscommon/Athlone P.T.A.A. regional raffle in St. Coman’s Club. Picture: Clare Frances Photography.

John Dwyer, Vice-President, Roscommon/Athlone P.T.A.A. and James Shevlin, National President, P.T.A.A., pictured at the Roscommon/Athlone P.T.A.A. regional raffle in St. Coman’s Club. Picture: Clare Frances Photography.

Warning over attempted theft of dogs in Castlerea < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

ROSCOMMON PEOPLE - NEW YEAR’S EDITION The next edition of the Roscommon People will PUBLISHED ON THURSDAY, 7TH JANUARY Our deadline for this publication is

2.30PM ON TUESDAY 5TH JANUARY WE CANNOT GUARANTEE PUBLICATION AFTER THIS TIME

Animal-lovers in Castlerea have been warned to be extra vigilant after a man was alleged to have attempted to steal dogs in the town last week. Last Wednesday, local councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice posted a message on Facebook that said that a man was acting suspiciously in the area. “He tried to take a dog in Churchill but was challenged by the owner and left,” he wrote. Contacted about the incident, Cllr. Fitzmaurice said that the dog owner and his son caught the alleged thief red-handed. The Fianna Fáil man said: “His son was coming home to the house and there was a guy outside trying to get their dog into the car. “He said: ‘What are you doing?’ The thief said: ‘This dog has no lead – I can take him.’ The owner said: ‘You are not taking him.’” The owner then retrieved the dog and the suspected thief fled the scene. Cllr. Fitzmaurice received a significant response to his Facebook post, which was shared by over 400 and commented on by several. Cllr. Fitzmaurice urged people with information to contact Castlerea Garda Station on 094-9621630. The Gardaí said that the matter had not yet been reported to them.

Roscommon People Friday 25 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

INSULATION

fergalkelly@live.com

Fergal 086 1016899

For Professional Advice Contact: Tel: 090

9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 Email: info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

WINDOWS AND DOORS

CLEANING

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Larkin Windows

STEPHEN HOARE

Contact

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

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

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

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

PLANNING SERVICES

TARMACADAM Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

Gerry Monaghan

Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness

TARMACADAM

New Buildings & Retroﬁt Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie

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

Contact David Martin on (087) 9959417

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

PHONE: 071-9634729 EMAIL: info@archengtech.com • Architectural Design • Planning for Residential, Commercial, Retail, Agricultural • Design Certifier & Assigned Certifier • Legal Mapping & Boundary Surveys • Building & Conditional Surveys • Percolation Tests, Structural Reports & Snag Lists FOR ANY ENQUIRIES CALL US ON 071-9634729

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

GLASS WORKS

Boyle Glass

Ballinameen, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071 96 68368 Mob: 087 6449709 Stained Decorative and Frosted Glass (over 100 designs on display) We also manufacture: - Double Glazed units & Table Tops - Bevelled Glass/Mirrors and Wedding Mirrors - Toughed and Laminated Glass - STOVE GLASS & Fire Rated Glass - Glass Shelving - We also supply glass for stairs/balconies & painted glass splash back

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Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES REYNOLDS Pat & Martha Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon (8th and 6th Anniversaries)

REYNOLDS Pat and Martha Clooncundra, Ballymurray, Roscommon Whose anniversaries occur at this time.

HANLEY Teresa

HENNIGAN Matthew

Doughill, Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

Goff Street, Roscommon and formally Montiagh, Curry, Co. Sligo Who died 27th December 2014

Beautiful memories, silently kept, of ones that we loved and will never forget.

Sadly missed by Sadie and all the Reynolds family. Treasured memories of Pat and Martha, beloved parents and grandparents who died on 20th December 2007 and 2nd November 2009 RIP We can remember them That they have gone Or we can cherish their memory And let it live on

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by Adrian, Yvonne, Niall and families. Anniversary Mass for the late Pat and Martha will take place in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Sunday 27th December at 10am.

WALSH George 10 Antogher Road, Roscommon 11th Anniversary on 27th December

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of our dear father and mother, Pat and Angela Rogers, who died 3rd January 1999 and 19th December 2008 Silent memories keep ye near, As time unfolds another year. Out of our lives ye may have gone, But in our hearts, Ye still live on.

Always remembered by Pat, Marie and family, Kevin, Mairead and family, Jackie, Willie and family, Niall and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery at 7pm on Saturday 2nd January.

FINAN Frank

LYONS Stephen

Lackagh, Ballinahown, Co. Offaly Late of Ballyfinnegan, Ballintubber, Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

Stonepark, Galway Road, Roscommon 1st Anniversary 27th December Aged 75 years

We smiled with the world As you would have wished But deep in our hearts you are sadly missed.

Lovingly remembered by his wife Kathleen, brothers and sister. Anniversary Mass in St. Colmcille’s Church, Ballinahown on Saturday 26th December at 7.30pm

I spent my life in furrows and fields Working and tilling the land Observing the beauties created By God’s almighty hand And so my life must be no different Just like the crops that I have grown For I am also God’s child and seed That at harvest must come home.

Remembered fondly by his loving sister, nephews, family and friends. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday 27th December at 10.30am.

Josephine and the family of Matt wish to thank sincerely all who sympathised with us and supported us as we laid Matt to rest. Thank you to our kind neighbours, friends, relatives and many extended friends of each family member, who called our homes, phoned or sent Mass Cards, Perpetual Cards, letters of sympathy and your kind words of comfort. We are grateful to all who attended Matt’s Removal, Funeral Mass, Burial and Month’s Mind Mass especially to people who travelled to be with us, many traveling long distances. Your presence and support was of great comfort to us. In Matt’s final months many people helped him to be very comfortable and happy in his own home, the Public Health team of Margaret Comerford, Margaret Fannon, Dr. Farrell and many others who helped the family support Matt and maintain his comfort. This is a wonderful team and a great service. A special thanks to Sr. Lena, Monsignor Travers and Fr. Irek who supported Matt at home over the past few years when he was unable to attend Mass, his spiritual needs were attended to so beautifully and were of great comfort to Matt in his final months. We thank the Parish choir who provided beautiful music and made the Ffuneral Mass so special. We wish to thank the Smyth family for their professionalism and understanding throughout, and the gravediggers who prepared Matt’s final resting place. Many thanks to all who continue to support us with friendship and kind words. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Matt’s First Anniversary Mass will be at 12.15pm on Sunday 27th December 2015 in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

Many a lovely moment Many a silent tear But always treasured memories Of a mother we loved so dear.

Always remembered and so sadly missed by her daughter Bridie, Eddie, Emer and James. ~~~~~~~~~~~~

May they Rest In Peace

ROGERS Pat & Angela

In loving memory of a dear mother, who died 7th January 2005 RIP

Softly in the morning you heard a gentle call, You took the hand God offered you And quietly left us all. The day you left us Our hearts just broke in two For the rest of our lives we will miss you. We miss your smile, Your joking ways, We miss the things you used to say And when old times we recall, It’s then we miss you most of all. Always willing, helpful and kind, What wonderful memories you left behind.

Deeply loved and sadly missed by daughter Anne-Marie, son Barry, brother Paddy and all the family.

CASEY Shane Sleaveen, Roscommon 14th Anniversary on December 26th

So many things have happened since you were called away So many things to share with you had you been left to stay. Every day in some small way Memories of you come our way Though absent, you are ever near Still missed, loved and always dear.

Deeply loved and missed by Mum, Dad, Aine, Harry and Aunt Noreen.

Your name is often mentioned Our thoughts are with you still You have never been forgotten And by us you never will.

Always remembered by Henry, Julia, Sean and Molly. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you.

Always remembered by Vincent, Marie, Philip and Alex. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again

Always remembered by Luke, Teresa, Kenneth, Kellie, Michelle and Luke. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Silent memories keep you near As time unfolds another year Out of our lives you may have gone But in our hearts you still live on.

Always remembered by Frank. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 3rd January 2016 at 10am in Curraghroe Church.

KIERNAN Mona and Felix Jnr Who died 27th December 2008 and 4th June 2006 (7th and 9th Anniversaries)

God bless you mother and father in your graves God keep you in His care, And may He listen to my heart And hear my fervent prayer. May you have peace and rest at last, From every care and woe; And may you sleep in comfort From the winds and rains and snow.

Sadly missed and always loved by your sons Joe, Martin and Declan, daughter Fiona, grandchildren and family. Anniversary Mass on 23rd December at 8am in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

LYONS Joe and Mary Milltown, Castleplunkett (16th and 4th Anniversaries)

Treasured memories of our parents Sadly missed along life’s way Quietly remembered every day No longer in our lives to share But in our hearts they are always there.

Remembered always by their family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 3rd January at 10am in Donamon Castle.

GALLAGHER Alan Ballinagard Road, Roscommon (6th Anniversary)

Always in our thoughts, forever in our hearts.

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Remembered by Mam, Dad, Brian, Kevin, Olive & family. Anniversary mass on Wednesday, 6th January in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 10:30..

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

McDONNELL Mary (Granny Mc)

McMANUS Nancy

FLANAGAN Gerry

McDONNELL Irene

DOWD John

DALY Marie

Culleenolagh, Dysart, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon Died 24th December 2014

Elphin Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Died January 1st 2015

Leitrim, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon May he Rest in Peace

Whitepark, Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon (6th Anniversary)

6 Lanesboro Street, Roscommon Who passed away on 16th January 2003 13th Anniversary - Aged 45

24 Marion Crescent, Lisnamult (3rd Anniversary)

On the First Anniversary of her passing, Mary’s children Marie, Teresa, Ann, Paddy, Michael, Seamus and Aidan along with their families, wish to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with them on the passing of their much loved and cherished mother, Mary. We will be forever grateful to all our relations, neighbours, friends, work colleagues and those who travelled long distances to attend her Funeral; also those who phoned, sent Mass Cards, flowers, donated to Co. Roscommon Association supporting People with Special Needs. Thanks to Dr. Martin Daly for his care and kindness to our mother, also to all the Home Help for their kindness and care of her. Sincere thanks to Fr. Francis Beirne for his support and prayers in her home and for celebrating her Funeral Mass, which was a beautiful celebration of her life. Thanks also to Fr. Bernie Costello who assisted at the Mass, to Liam and the choir for their beautiful music and singing. Thanks to the gravediggers who prepared Mary’s final resting place and to Michael Dempsey, Undertaker for his professional service and all those who prepared the lovely food and refreshments. Mass will be offered for your intentions.

We, the family of the late Nancy McManus would like to sincerely thank all who sympathised with us and supported us in our sad loss. Thanks to our kind neighbours, friends and relatives who helped in so many ways and to the many people who called to the house, phoned or sent Mass Cards, Perpetual Cards and letters of sympathy. Sincere thanks to all who attended the Removal, the Funeral Mass, Burial and the Month’s Mind Mass, especially the many people who travelled long distances to be with us. A special thanks to the local Priests Canon Ciaran Whitney and Fr. Ciaran O’Flynn, Fr. John Carroll for the lovely Homily, Bishop Kevin Doran and all the concelebrating priests. Thanks to the choir for the beautiful music provided, the servers and all who participated in the Mass. Thanks to Pat McHugh, Undertaker for his professionalism, understanding and kindness and to the gravediggers. Many thanks to the staff of Innis Ree Nursing Home, Ballyleague who cared so wonderfully for Nancy and to the staff of Portiuncla Hospital. To everyone who helped and supported us during this sad time, please accept our sincere gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Nancy’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Strokestown Church on Saturday 2nd January at 12pm.

In loving memory of Gerry, who died on 25th December 2001

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

It’s hard to see tomorrow, To believe that you’re really gone. It’s harder still to realise that life must still go on. I know a day will never pass, No breeze will blow on Erin’s grass. My foot shalln’t tread on the morning dew, That will not bring a thought of you. In my silent hours of thinking thoughts of you are forever near You give me strength to carry on through another lonely year Time may hide my sadness like A smile that can hide my tears My memories hold you close to me despite those thirteen years. Your life was earnest, your actions kind, A willing hand, an active mind A believer in right, loath to offend, A loving father and my true friend. John, you are no longer here, for now we are apart You will always walk beside me forever in my heart. The road without you John is long, a tear for every mile But I believe when I reach the end You’ll greet me with a smile.

We lost a mother with a heart of gold How much we miss her can never be told She shared our troubles and helped us along If we follow her footsteps we will never go wrong.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Saturday 26th December at 8.15pm.

BRENNAN Tommy Carroward, Fourmilehouse (11th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Tommy who passed away on 6th January 2005 Sadly missed and fondly remembered by his wife Rose and all his family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 27th December 2015 at 11am in St. Brigid’s Church, Fourmilehouse.

Fourteen years have passed since that sad day You closed your eyes and went away You left us so suddenly without a fuss And broke the hearts of all of us. You’re not just a memory or part of the past, You’re ours to remember as long as life lasts. You always had a smile to share Time to give and time to care. Your memory is our greatest treasure To have, to hold, to keep forever You taught us so many things You were loving kind and true But you never taught us how to cope With the pain of losing you.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife and family. Masses offered.

GILLERAN Martin (18th Anniversary)

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

Lovingly remembered by his wife Margaret and family. Anniversary Mass in Kilteevan Church on 25th December at 10am.

Lovingly remembered by her husband Malachy, daughter Caroline, sons Sean, Malachy, Cyril, Adrian and Raymond, daughtersin-law Sharon, Lisa, Teresa and Jennifer and her grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on 30th December at 8pm in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy. 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.

Loved and remembered forever, Margaret xxx ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

DOWD Neil

We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again So Rest in Peace dear loved one And thanks for all you’ve done We pray that God has given you The crown you’ve truly won.

Loved and sadly missed by Niall, Martina, Ian, James, Daire, Leah and Mikey. Anniversary Mass on Monday 28th at 10.30am in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

GIBLIN Mary Mote Park, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

6 Lanesboro Street, Roscommon Who passed away on 8th January 2011 5th Anniversary - Aged 30

A sister is life’s special gift She plays a loving part in many lifelong memories. Neil, no more your face to look upon or your wonderful smile to see Though deep inside my heart I know you still reside with me While all your dreams in still heart sleep, My heart still mourns and I nightly weep My tears fall in gentle streams each one shed for your broken dreams And for my Neil who’s buried beneath the sod in restful sleep, with our loving God I didn’t say goodbye to you, there wasn’t any time You quietly slipped away from me, The timing wasn’t mine And since the day you passed away I thought of words not said And so I have decided to tell you now instead I loved you more than life itself which means I love you still. I just wanted you to know how much I always will. When a rainbow in my sky appears with a beauty of it’s own It’s on the breeze I hear your voice, you whisper Ma you’re not alone Neil, I know you are in God’s special care, That’s how it was meant to be If I ever get to Heaven I pray that He will give you back to me.

Always in my thoughts. Loved and missed forever. Your mother, Margaret ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ FOR NEIL’S FRIENDS If you keep Neil’s memories you shall never be apart and Neil will live forever locked safe within your heart.

13th and 15th Anniversary Mass on Saturday 2nd January 2016 at 10.30am in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

Sadly and fondly missed by her sister Winifred. Rest in Peace Mary.

SLIMAN Dolores Rathconnor, Fourmilehouse Who passed away on 3rd January 2014 Just a tribute Small and tender, Just to say we will always remember. Each of us in our own way Have special thoughts of you today.

Always rememberd by her family and friends. Anniversary Mass in Fourmilehouse Church on Friday 1st January at 8pm.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Business Duffy’s SuperValu in Ballaghaderreen are overall winners at Access for All Awards Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen, were the overall winners of the County Roscommon Access for All Awards 2015. The presentation of the awards took place in The Dale Centre, Roscommon Disability Support Group with Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Paddy Kilduff and Chief Executive Mr. Eugene

Cummins doing the honours. Hanly’s Eurospar, Strokestown and Hester’s Bar and Restaurant, Castlerea scooped runner-up awards at the ceremony. The recipients were presented with their certificates and with an engraved glass plaque. Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen also received With over 30 years’ experience, Aengus Oates Financial Services provides expert financial advice and bespoke financial solutions to our highly valued clients

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a drawing of their premises done by local talented artist, Alan Tarpey from Knockcroghery. Alan recently featured on Brent Pope’s documentary Inside Out which was aired on RTE. Chief Executive, Mr. Eugene Cummins spoke about the initiative and confirmed that Roscommon County Council received a total number of 28 nominations nominating 16 different businesses throughout the county. He referred to the awards scheme as “an excellent way to highlight the hard work, good practices and consideration that many businesses and organisations in the county have adopted in order to improve the standards of accessibility. They highlight awareness of the issues that face people with any kind of mobility issue on a day to day basis”.

Special guest speaker for the afternoon was Ms. Katie Bourke from Adaptable Solutions. She spoke openly about her own personal barriers, being a wheelchair user, and also about the new challenges she had to face, as she has

recently become a mother. Katie also spoke about concentrating on people’s abilities rather than the disability and praised Roscommon County Council for the Access for All Awards initiative. MC for the afternoon,

Deirdre Kelly finished off by thanking the working group, consisting of Deirdre Kelly (Western Alzheimer’s), Marian Keegan (HSE), Margaret Bourke (Roscommon Disability Support Group), Anita Kenny (Social In-

clusion Unit, Roscommon Co. Council) and Jenny Healy (Deafhear). She congratulated all the businesses that received awards and hoped that they would display their certificates and awards in their premises with pride.

Pictured are Marian Keegan (H.S.E. Disability Manager), Cllr Michael Creighton, Ollie Hester (Hester’s Bar, Castlerea), Deirdre Kelly, Margaret Bourke (CEO, Resource Centre, Derrane), Eugene Cummins (CEO, Roscommon County Council), Paddy Kilduff (Cathaoirleach), Cllr. Eugene Murphy, Cllr Rachel Doherty, Cllr Orla Leyden, Cllr Kathleen Shanagher, Cllr. Tony Ward, Cllr. John Cummins, Cllr. Valerie Byrne, Dermot Lyons (Mace Supermarket, Castlerea), Frank Ward (Frank Ward Taxi, Castlerea). Seated: Katie Burke (Adaptable Solutions), Breege Hester (Hester’s, Castlerea), Annette Feeley (on behalf of Eurospar, Strokestown), Bernie Duffy, Teresa Duffy (Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen, Winner), Anita Kenny (Social Inclusion Officer, Roscommon County Council), Sinead Flanagan (Flanagan’s Bar, Castleplunkett) and Mary Ganly. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

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Pictured are Eugene Cummins (Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council), Annette Feeley, accepting the runner-up award on behalf of EuroSpar (Strokestown) and Cllr. Paddy Kilduff (Cathaoirleach) at the Co. Roscommon Access For All Awards Ceremony 2015 at The Resource Centre, Derrane. Roscommon. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Pictured are Anita Kenny (Social Inclusion Officer, Roscommon County Council), Eugene Cummins (CEO, Roscommon County Council), Ollie Hester and Breege Hester (Hester’s Bar & Restaurant, Castlerea) receiving the runner-up award in the Access for All Awards. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

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Pictured are Eugene Cummins (CEO, Roscommon County Council), Bernie Duffy and Teresa Duffy (Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen) winner of the Access for All Awards 2015 at The Resource Centre, Derrane. Roscommon and Cllr. Paddy Kilduff (Cathaoirleach). Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

SportsPeople Postponed Clonmel Fixture The postponed Clonmel fixture has been rescheduled for tomorrow without the Grade Three Kerry Group Stayers Novice Hurdle from the recently abandoned Cork which was run at Fairyhouse on Saturday. The first race is off at pm.

Festival Racing Action Saturday, St Stephen’s Day, sees the start of the Leopard-

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

stown four day Christmas festival first race at 12.15pm, the 3 day Limerick Festival at 12.30 pm and Boxing Day at Down Royal also at 12.30 pm. On New Year’s Eve the action comes to a close for 2013 in Co Kildare at Punchestown and 2014 action gets under way the following day at Fairyhouse with times not yet available. The feature on St Stephen’s Day at Leopardstown is the Grade 1 Novice Chase which carries an entry of 13. The Willie Mullins trained Vautour, unbeaten in 6 races in Ireland, looks the part but is odds on. If John Ferguson’s English raider Three Kingdoms travels he is stepping up in class having won both his chases at Newcastle and Leicester and could be e/w value. There are 17 entered in the Grade 2 Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown on St Stephen’s Day headed by the impressive Fairyhouse winner Kalkir again from Willie Mullins’ yard who has already been backed for the Triumph from 12’s to 6’s and he will be a lot less if he wins this.

Winner of the first juvenile hurdle of the season at Lenebane Love The Feeling takes on Kalkir again having been 4th at Fairyhouse and might prove e/w value. In the bumper the one that catches the eye, among all from Gigginstown and Ricci, is the Christy Roche trained Falcon Crest, 2nd recently to Bordini at Navan before he went on to win again at Punchestown. The feature at Greenmount in Limerick is the Grade 2 Novice Chase and while there are a few double entries with the Foxrock Novice give Very Wood, a consistant type who pulled up last time, another chance. In the opener Conright Boy definitely has a chance on his last run, 5th at Navan, he is also entered in the bumper at the Foxrock venue on Monday. In Down Royal Rockfield Open winner Luska Lad will take beating if he turns up for the Hunter Chase. On Boxing Day at Down Royal there seven races on the card providing top quality National Hunt racing. Our gates open 11.00am with the first race kicking off at 12.25pm (approx.) and the last at 3.30pm (approx.). On Sunday there are 2 Grade 1 races, the Dial-a-Bet Chase, very open and Days Hotel will be there or thereabouts at a price ground permitting, and Future Champions Novice Hurdle both sponsored by Paddy Power. Sunday is Ladies Day with a fantastic Sunway Travel Holiday to be won with the feature race on the card the Grade B

Tim Duggan Memorial Handicap Chase worth €50,000. On Monday Bobs Worth, bred in Co Down and winner of the 2012 Gold Cup, should have his second start in Ireland in the Grade 1 Lexus Chase to defend his title. The Lexus is the feature event of the Leopardstown Christmas meeting and the British are looking to make it 4 in a row but Boston Bob and Gold Cup winner Lord Windermere, form a strong home team, will make it a strong contest. All three horses are being backed ante post almost to the exclusion of all others. There is a second Grade 1 race on the card the Christmas Hurdle. This year the stakes are high as the competition is sponsored by world renowned 5-star Monart Destination Spa. Gather the girls and the hats to be in with a chance to win the Ultimate 5-star escape at the County Wexford venue worth €5,000 in the Monart Destination Spa Most Stylish Lady competition. Tuesday, the final day of the meeting, again features 2 Grade 1 races, The Ryanair Hurdle and the Neville Hotels Novice Chase. The hurdle race is to all intents and purposes a match between our top hurdlers Hurricane Fly and Jezki. Won by Hurricane Fly in four of the last five runnings the Ryanair Hurdle is a hotly contested race and a key pointer for the Champion Hurdle in Cheltenham. Also featured is the Grade 1 Neville Hotels Novice Chase. The Foxrock track expects the going to be yielding to soft

on both courses for the festival. The going in the north is soft and at Limerick soft, soft to heavy in places at present. The Shannon Airport Christmas Racing Festival takes place from Saturday 26th until Tuesday 29th December 2015. The 4 Day Festival is synonymous with great racing and of course a great atmosphere. With live racing action from 12:30pm each day, make sure you visit Limerick Racecourse for a great day out this festive season. With all the top class racing to enjoy; dates for the diary include Festive Most Stylish Ladies Day on Sunday 27th December and Family Fun Day on Tuesday 29th December which takes place in the Greenmount Grotto to include face-painting, party games and much more. Children under 16 years will enjoy FREE admission to the races on all 4 days of the festival. Feature race is the grade 2 Shannon Airport Novice Chase Feature race is The Tim Duggan Memorial Handicap Chase Feature race on the day is 4 year old Irish Independent Listed Hurdle. The grade 2 Kirkland Investments Doran’s Pride Novice Hurdle With nearly a week to go to Christmas racing it is very difficult to pick winners but as we go to press a couple to watch on St Stephen’s Day are Willie Mullins’ Kalkir in the Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown, Lyrical Theatre is in the

AGM of Castlerea Golf Club Management committee

The AGM of Castlerea Golf Club Management committee took place recently in the Clubhouse with a very good attendance of members. The newly-elected officers for 2016 are – President: Tommie Dolan, Chairman and Vice Captain: Pat O’Connor, Secretary: Pyers O’Connor Nash, Treasurer: John Mulligan, Registrar: Mickey Freyne, Lady Captain: Mary Kenny, Captain: Dr. Greg Kelly, Lady Vice Captain: Evelyn Curley, Course Manager: Myles Hawkshaw, Committee Members: Liam Walsh, Christy Glynn, Dara Bruen, Mamie Creighton and Liam O’Connell. The new chairman, Pat O’Connor, addressed the meeting and said he was honoured to be chairman of the club and he and the incoming committee would work hard to bring the Club forward. He thanked all our competition sponsors and the tee box sponsors for their generosity

to Castlerea Golf Club and asked the members to support our sponsors in turn whenever possible. 2015 has been a very successful year for Castlerea Golf Club. From winning the Connacht mixed foursomes the Club went on to compete in the All-Ireland finals of the mixed foursomes in Dooks Golf Club in Co. Kerry. We also had very successful golf classes for beginners through the CGI Golf programme which had almost 50 men and ladies taking part every Friday evening. At the end of the golf season we received the welcome news that Castlerea Golf Club has been approved for a €47,000 Sports Development grant. The new committee are now planning for the year ahead and we look forward to another successful season at Castlerea Golf Club. Membership vouchers make an ideal Christmas present and are available from Mickey Freyne or John Mulligan.

maiden hurdle at Limerick and should add to her 3 wins. and can’t see a bet at Down Royal. On Monday My Hometown, a recent very impressive point to point winner should win the opening maiden hurdle first time of asking at Limerick for Enda Bolger. Hope some of these defray, not add to, the Seasonal expences. Cross Channel on Boxing Day the King George will hopefully see an Irish victory with Champagne Fever, who takes on Silviniana Conti, Alferof and Cue Card among others. Noel Meade also sends over Road To Riches. The Grade 2 Desert Orchid Chase is the feature at Kempton on December 27. Also on Saturday the Welsh National takes place at Chepstow.

Point to Point Point to Point Racing will resume at Dromahane in Cork on Wednesday 30th December with the first meeting of the New Year at Templenacarriga in Cork on the 3rd January. All that left for me to do is to wish all readers and punters a very Happy Christmas and prosperous New Year with, hopefully, a few winners over the holidays to defer the expences. Two Irish trained horses Don Cossack and Vautour head the betting market in Kempton’s King George Chase from Cue Card and Silviniaco Conti with 14/1 bar. In the Christmas Hurdle Faugheen, odds on in most books, will defend his crown and Willie Mullins is confident he will leave his poor run in Punchestown behind him.

Duffy puts Ballagh’ to the sword

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Ciara McGuire, Brian Carroll and Michael McGuire. Picture: Andrew Fox

Ballaghaderreen travelled to Ballinasloe last Wednesday evening looking to keep their momentum going while also putting one over on their fierce rivals. It wasn’t to be, however, as Ballinasloe continued their hoodoo over the visitors with a composed 1-0 win courtesy of a Mark Duffy header from a Liam Lynch cross in the second half. It’s a result that could kickstart Enda Concannon’s boys’ season. It was more disappointment for Ballagh’ and Darren Conroy and John Moran will be disappointed they couldn’t take something from a game they played well in. For defending champions, Ballinasloe, this could signal the start of a revival. The rest of the league has been served notice!

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

SportsPeople

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

What I (think) I see in my crystal ball! This has been the busiest year in local sport that I can remember. In GAA, we had successes at Colleges level, club football level, in the National Football League, the Nicky Rackard Cup and in camogie. We had success too in darts, handball and golf, as well as all the other sports that feature every week in The Roscommon People. In this, my final sports column of 2015, I am going to look into the crystal ball to speculate on what might happen in 2016. I’m sure a lot of these predictions will come back to haunt me in a year’s time!

Gaelic football In 2016 Roscommon football followers will be looking forward to a tough season in Division One of the National League. To survive in the top division would be a major achievement. I think Roscommon can do it. I am also expecting that Roscommon can get to the Connacht final, but Mayo are still looking very strong and they have so much to prove after getting rid of their last management team. We should also have a very good U-21 team again in 2016. On the club scene, and given their impressive U-21 win last week, Clann na nGael are going to be hard to knock off their perch in 2016. I expect St Brigid’s, Padraig Pearses and Roscommon Gaels to be strong too. In the IFC, Tulsk and Fuerty look the best bets, but don’t rule out Kilmore. Predictions – Connacht SFC: Mayo (edging out Roscommon in the final); All-Ireland SFC: Dublin; Roscommon SFC: Clann na nGael; Roscommon IFC: Fuerty; All-Ireland Club SFC: Castlebar.

Hurling I suppose we were spoilt with the standard of the hurling championships in recent years. 2015 was forgettable (except in Kilkenny). The Galway hurlers will be under some pressure to deliver in 2016. Locally, Roscommon will try to be promoted from their league group and if they could retain their Christy Ring Cup status it would be a great year for them. In club hurling, is there anyone to challenge Four Roads? Probably not. Predictions – All-Ireland SHC: Clare; Roscommon SHC: Four Roads; All-Ireland Club SHC: Na Piarsaigh.

Soccer The Euro 2016 Championships will be the highlight. Ireland can make it out of their group with a win and a draw – and they might just do it. In club soccer, it’s Arsenal’s best chance for many years to win the Premier League. They look good enough to do it this season. Here at home it will be interesting to see how Dundalk do without Richie Towell in 2016 and in Roscommon I wonder is there anyone to challenge Ballinasloe Town in 2016? It would be nice to see Ballaghaderreen do it after three near-misses, but Ballinasloe have to remain the strong favourites. Predictions – Euro 2016 winners: Belguim (Ireland to qualify from their group, and Wales to beat England!); Premier League: Arsenal; Relegated: Aston Villa, Sunderland and Norwich; Champions League: Barcelona;

League of Ireland Premier Division: Shamrock Rovers; Roscommon & District League Premier Division: Ballinasloe Town.

Golf It will be a huge year in golf with the Ryder Cup coming up in September. Rory McIlroy will be back on the trail of more majors in 2016 and Shane Lowry will be hoping to build on his success. However, with the likes of Jason Day and Jordan Spieth around, it will not be plain sailing. Watch out also for the performances of young Paul Dunne on his first year on the tour, and Leona Maguire, the number one amateur lady golfer in the world. She is likely to join the paid ranks in 2016. The Irish Open at the K Club in May should be a highlight of the year too. Predictions – Masters: Jordan Spieth; US Open: Rory McIlroy; British Open: Shane Lowry (back him each-way); US PGA: Henrik Stenson; Ryder Cup: USA to win narrowly.

Rugby It will be interesting to see how Ireland get on in the Six Nations Championship after their tame World Cup exit and the loss of so many key players through retirement and injury. I have a feeling that Ireland might struggle this coming year.

Watch out for England. They have a new coach and they will be rearing to go this year after their disastrous exit from the World Cup. Locally, it would be superb if Connacht could win something at European level or in the PRO 12. Munster and Leinster are struggling and it looks like the English and French clubs have gone far away into the distance in terms of their quality in the European game. Remember that Ireland’s women’s team are also going for another Six Nations Championship in 2016. A long shot: how about Denis Buckley and Jack Carty to get Irish caps in 2016! Predictions – Six Nations: England; European Champions Cup: Saracens; European Challenge Cup: Connacht.

The Olympic Games There was a time when looking forward to the Olympic Games thrilled every sports follower. However the revelations about widespread drug-taking in athletics has put a stain on the sport and now when you are watching you do not know who is clean and who is not. I have to say I am not really bothered about the prospect of Rio 2016 now. It’s a pity for all the athletes that will go to the Games clean. Here in Ireland, our best chances for medals will come in

the boxing ring and it is expected that we could have as many as six Irish men in with a chance of medals – and of course we have Katie Taylor too, which is fantastic. Watch out for golf too which is back in the Olympics this year. We will have a very strong team and we’re in with a great chance of a medal.

Horseracing There are so many races and so many titles up for grabs it is foolish to start predicting what might happen. I think it’s safe to say that Willie Mullins will again travel to Cheltenham with a very strong hand. He will get it tough to match his haul of eight winners in 2015 though. On the flat, Aidan O’Brien will be at or near the top again for sure in 2016. Locally, Roscommon Racecourse continues to flourish and Micheal Finneran and his team are doing a mighty job in Lenabane. Let’s hope they get good weather for the meetings in 2016 and that all goes well.

Other sports I expect to see David Concannon making further progress in the darts world in 2016. In handball there are many talented young players who are receiving excellent coaching in places like Ballaghaderreen and St Coman’s Handball Club and in many other places in the region too. Let’s hope they have further great success in 2016. Cycling continues to be a huge participation sport with hundreds of enthusiasts out on the roads every weekend for leisure and competitive purposes. We wish them all the best of success in 2016.

Season’s greetings I just want to thank our readers and our advertisers for supporting The Roscommon People over the past twelve months. Thanks to all those who emailed in their comments and constructive criticism is always welcome. Thanks to all the local sports PROs for their co-operation during the year. Season’s greetings to all our sporting friends, and I hope that you have a really enjoyable and sporting festive holiday period. We are already looking forward to a great sporting year in 2016.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Final

WHISTLE

THE FIRST ROUND

Seamus Duke & Dan Dooner with sporting musings on 2015 – and the New Year

Six great Roscommon GAA highlights of 2015 Roscommon v Kildare (NFL Div. 2, in Newbridge) The final score, Roscommon 0-24 Kildare 2-12, says it all. This was a thrilling rollercoaster of a game as Roscommon came back from a losing position at least three times to beat Kildare, and in their own back yard too. Some of the Roscommon point-scoring that day was as good as the fans have seen in many years.

St. Croan’s v Sean O’Mahony’s (All-Ireland Club IFC in Breffni Park) History was made in Cavan at the end of January as St. Croan’s beat the Leinster champions to qualify for their first All-Ireland club final in Croke Park. The Ballintubber men played some wonderful football in the first half and withstood a rally from the Louth men

to qualify for the final. Alas, in the final in Croke Park they met an Ardfert side from Kerry who were just too strong.

Nicky Rackard Cup Final (Roscommon v Armagh) All looked lost for Roscommon hurlers as they faced into injury-time against Armagh a point down in the Nicky Rackard Cup final in Croke Park. Roscommon had battled well but it looked like another devastating defeat awaited Justin Campbell’s men. However, Roscommon were awarded a free 20 metres out from the posts and slightly to the right of centre. Up stepped Roscommon’s inspirational captain Micheál Kelly and the rest, as they say, is history. It was a sensational winning goal and it was fitting that it was scored by Roscommon’s best player of the year.

Connacht U-21 Football Final (Roscommon v Galway) This was by far the best game of football that this writer saw at any level in 2015. The standard of play, the quality of the scores, and the level of excitement at Tuam Stadium on a balmy Saturday evening will remain in the memory for a long time for anyone who was privileged to be there. Roscommon were down five points on two occasions, but the quality of their attack in which Diarmuid Murtagh (1-7), Ultan Harney (0-3), Enda Smith and Paul Kenny were outstanding saw Mark Dowd’s men through in the end. Final score: Roscommon 3-14 Galway 3-11.

County SFC SemiFinals: Roscommon Gaels v Padraig Pearses, Clann na nGael v St. Brigid’s This double bill of semi-final action will not feature on any highlights reel for St. Brigid’s or Roscommon Gaels, but it was a day when the two hot favourites to advance to the county final were dumped out. Shane Curran’s Padraig Pearses showed a clean pair of heels to a fancied Roscommon Gaels in the opener

Jenny Downey was an inspirational figure for Roscommon Ladies.

Michael Kelly and Roscommon hurlers enjoyed a successful season. Picture: Andrew Fox

while a young Clann na nGael team relieved St. Brigid’s of their title in a tight encounter. Clann na nGael were to go on to win their first senior title in almost 20 years, beating Pearses in the final.

Roscommon CBS v Good Counsel (AllIreland Colleges ‘A’ Semi-Final) Roscommon football fans were back in Newbridge to see the Roscommon

CBS team coached by Willie Hegarty and Seamus Heneghan reach the AllIreland Senior ‘A’ Final in sensational fashion. It was a tight and tense semi-final but the excellent defensive work from the Roscommon lads paid dividends and they won by 0-10 to 0-8. Roscommon CBS were beaten by Kerry side Scoil Chorca Dhuibne in the final but with just six minutes to go there was only a point between the teams. It was a magnificent achievement for the CBS to reach an ‘A’ final and do so well.

In dramatic fashion, and after a season of highs and lows, John Evans departed. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Final

WHISTLE

THE FIRST ROUND

Seamus Duke & Dan Dooner with sporting musings on 2015 – and the New Year

National and international highlights of 2015 < SEAMUS DUKE

Westmeath’s famous win A poor football championship was lit up by Westmeath’s win against Meath in the Leinster Football Championship. It was the first time the Lake County ever beat their neighbours and bitter rivals in the championship, and they did it in thrilling style, coming back from eight points down at half-time to win by four (3-19 to 2-18) in the end. In hurling it was also a mediocre championship in 2015 (except if you are from Kilkenny) and by far the best game of the year was the All-Ireland semi-final between Galway and Tipperary. Galway won it by 0-26 to 3-16 with Tipp’s Seamus Callinan scoring an incredible 3-9 – and he still ended up on the losing side!

Ireland make it to France The Republic of Ireland qualifying for the Euro 2016 finals is one of the sporting highlights of the year by any yardstick. Martin O’Neill’s side looked down and out earlier in the year, but a sensational win against Germany at The Aviva and two great displays against Bosnia in the play-offs secured

a place in France. Ireland got a tough draw but they will not be afraid at the finals as they will be underdogs going into to every game. The fact that England, Wales and Northern Ireland have qualified too will add spice to the finals.

Rugby World Cup A second Six Nations Rugby Championship in a row for Ireland gave rise to huge expectations for Ireland in the World Cup but it all fell apart after several of our key players were ruled out by injury and we tamely exited at the quarter-final stage to a rampant Argentina. However, it was a magnificent World Cup that was superbly run. The socalled weaker nations played well in almost every game and we had a brilliant final in which one of the greatest players we have ever seen in the game – Dan Carter – was man of the match as the All Blacks coasted to victory against a gallant Australia.

On the fairways In golf, Rory McIlroy started the year at world number one but it was Clara’s Shane Lowry who made the headlines from an Irish point of view with a brilliant win in the Bridgestone Invitational in the USA. It pushed the

genial Offaly man inside the world top 25 and he is now in elite company as he awaits his first major. Darren Clarke was appointed the captain of the Ryder Cup team and Cavan girl Leona Maguire is now the world’s number one amateur lady golfer and a star in the making.

Brilliant boxers The Irish boxers continue to do the country proud not least Michael Conlon who won gold at the World Championships in Doha. Joe Ward took a silver and Michael O’Reilly a bronze as well and hopes are high of more heroics in 2016 in the Olympic Games in Rio which of course will see Katie Taylor defend her title.

Sport of Kings Just when you thought it couldn’t get better we had 13 Irish winners at Cheltenham including an incredible eight from Willie Mullins. Those winners included Faugheen in the Champion Hurdle. On the flat racing front it was Aidan O’Brien’s year once again with several Group One wins and Gleneagles was the star turn winning the Irish and English 2000 Guineas and the Irish Derby too.

Another success for Ballinasloe…and a youth policy too! Picture: Andrew Fox

More local highlights Ballinasloe best Ballinasloe Town once again proved kingpins of Roscommon club soccer with another league and cup double. In an exciting end to the Premier Division season Ballinasloe defeated Ballaghaderreen FC in a winner-take-all contest at The Curragh Grounds. Then in the Cup final Enda Concannon’s side beat Castlerea Centic 3-1 to secure another memorable double.

David on target Roscommon have in their midst the best young darts player in the country. The winner of countless competitions in 2015, David Concannon also captained Ireland in international tournaments and he featured on live TV on a number of occasions. His star continues to rise in the ultra-competitive world of top class darts.

Connacht Rugby Connacht have been fantastic in the 2015-2016 season so far and despite so many injuries they have been so resilient under Pat Lam. The win against Munster at Thomond Park in November in the PRO 12 league – their first in 29 years over the Munster men – was certainly one highlight among many. Rossies’ are very prominent with Denis Buckely, Jack Carty and Daniel Qualter all regulars on the first team.

Ladies Football

‘Best seat in the house’ at Roscommon Races! Picture: Andrew Fox

Strokestown were back on top of the Roscommon Ladies Football tree after they won the senior title, beating Clann na nGael in a tense final at Knockcroghery. Elsewhere, a young Roscommon inter-county team did well in the league but were unlucky in the championship losing out to Leitrim and Sligo. – SD

Heartbreak for St. Croan’s. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

Final

WHISTLE

THE FIRST ROUND

Seamus Duke & Dan Dooner with sporting musings on 2015 – and the New Year

Sport on television: Some Christmas crackers < DARRAGH O’CONNOR

Christmas is a great time to be a sports fan as there is so much live sport on TV. Here are some of the tv sporting highlights over the festive period…

Saturday 26th December Stoke City v Manchester United, 12.45, Sky Sports 1 Early game on what is the busiest day of football of the year. With United being knocked out of the League Cup and Champions League already this season, it is crucial that they have a good festive period, to ease the pressure on manager Louis van Gaal. They are in for a tough game at Stoke though as Mark Hughes’

side have already beaten Chelsea and Man. City at home this season.

Racing (various channels) Coverage of today’s meetings from Fontwell, Sedgefield, Wolverhampton, Down Royal, Leopardstown and Limerick.

Southampton v Arsenal, 19.45, BT Sport 1 Probably the best game of the day saved ‘till last, as Arsenal travel to St Mary’s looking for a result to change the doubters to believers on the question of whether or not they can win the League. Although Southampton are in poor form at the moment, this will not be an easy game for Arsenal. They found

that out in this fixture last season, when they lost 20.

Fabulous Four Roads

Sunday 27th December Munster v Leinster, 17.15, Sky Sports 4/TG4

Hurling: Four Roads won their 8th Roscommon SHC title in a row in 2015. They defeated Padraig Pearses in the final after a replay and they could have (and probably should have) defeated Abbeyknockmoy in the Connacht IHC Final in Athleague. It was another year to remember for Four Roads who this year were managed by Micheál Mulry. Is there anyone out there to challenge them?

With just one place and one point separating the two teams in the league table, this should be a cracker at Thomond Park and is a game every rugby fan cannot afford to miss.

PDC World Darts Championship, 13.00, Sky Sports 3 and 19.00, Sky Sports 1 The World Darts Championship continues throughout Christmas period and is the one sport that’s on the TV every day. Sky

There’s thrills in store for darts fans over the Christmas.

Sports have exclusive coverage of the darts which conclude on Sunday the 3rd of January.

counters.

Monday 28th December

Leicester v Manchester City, BT Sport 1, 19.45

Manchester United v Chelsea, 17.30, BT Sport 1

Racing will dominate the tv screens on St. Stephen’s Day.

Without doubt the game that stands out over the festive period, as the two most successful English teams over the last 10 years go head to head at Old Trafford. Usually this game would have an impact on where the title would go at the end of the season, but this season is different as Chelsea are at an all-time low and Manchester United are, controversially not playing expansive football. This game is still as hard to call as any of the past en-

Tuesday 29th December

This game has the makings to be a Christmas cracker, as the favourites for the league take on the surprise package of the season so far. Leicester have been the only consistent team so far this season and have surprised everyone. The likes of Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez are early contenders to be Player of The Season, which is incredible when you consider that the club only spent a combined £1.5 million on the duo! If they were to beat the favourites everyone will have to treat them as

genuine top four hopefuls – or even possibly serious title challengers.

Wednesday 30th December Sunderland v Liverpool, 19.45, Sky Sports 1 Final Premier League game of the year, as Liverpool travel to the North East to face Sunderland. Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool will want to end the year on a high during what has been a mixed season so far. Liverpool outplayed Chelsea and Man. City away, but it has been against the socalled smaller teams that they have struggled. Under Klopp, they have failed to beat Crystal Palace, Newcastle and West Brom, which is a worry going forward in the season.

Things to watch out for in 2016 NostraDANus Dooner The New Year is almost upon us and here at the Roscommon People compound I’ve been looking into a crystal ball in order to predict events in 2016. Conor McGregor will retire from UFC and return to Crumlin where he will live out the rest of his years as a quiet, unassuming plumber. Katie Taylor, tired of dominating wom-

en’s boxing, will enter men’s professional boxing and end Floyd Mayweather’s unbeaten record. Louis Van Gaal’s Manchester United will suddenly start playing like the young Ajax team of 1995 and pass their way to the Premier League title. Leicester’s Jamie Vardy will finish the season as top goalscorer and seal a move to Liverpool. He will never be heard from again. The Republic of Ireland will draw their

Three more GAA gems

way all the way to the European Championships Final where they will be narrowly defeated by a controversial French goal. England will be knocked out on penalties. In a surprising move, Dublin will refuse to play at Croke Park in a show of solidarity with their culchie cousins. The ‘durty Dubs’ will instead travel the country beating teams in their own backyards. Sam will be won in Kiltoom against a

much-improved Roscommon team. In hurling, Davie Fitzgerald will spontaneously combust after his players are beaten by yet another referee. Kilkenny will be beaten in the final by a Galway side led by Anthony Cunningham after the Galway senior panel turn down 12 different management teams during the league campaign. In horseracing, Ireland will have no winners at Cheltenham but will win Eurovision with a song by Panti Bliss.

Athleague’s camogie feats Camogie: Athleague camogie side upset the applecart and caused a shock by beating Four Roads in the county senior final. Four Roads were going for eight titles in a row. Athleague went on to beat Loughgeil of Antrim in the All-Ireland Junior Club semi-final but they lost out in the final to Johnstownbridge of Kildare.

Glory for Glavey’s Intermediate Club Football: Michael Glavey’s won a thrilling IFC final after they looked like they would be well beaten by Fuerty in the final at Strokestown. Fuerty were cruising to victory and at one stage they led by eight points. However, second-half goals for Andrew Glennon and Caoileann Fitzmaurice brought Glavey’s back into the match and it looked odds-on a draw until Roscommon senior goalkeeper Darren O’Malley converted a ’45 in injury-time to give his side an unlikely victory in sensational fashion.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

SportsPeople

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were James O’Connor, John O’Connor and Paul Foxe. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Eamon Campion, Barry O’Regan, Tom Finneran and Vincent Finan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Eddie Fallon, Basil Jones, Robert McConn and Padraig Moran. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon GAA Convention were Tomás Murray, Seamus Sweeney, Roscommon County Board Chairman, David Leydon and Seán Mullaney. Picture: Andrew Fox

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

After a strange year, there’s much to look forward to in 2016

‘There is no doubt that John Evans did good work here and deserves credit for that, but ultimately his denial that we had serious problems in the championship led to the end of his term.’

As we bring down the curtain on 2015, on reflection, it has been a strange year in Roscommon GAA circles. We had a very successful National Football League campaign (please don’t mention the FBD League title!) culminating in promotion to Division One. A lot of people might say that to be playing in Division One might be a poisoned chalice for the new management team but I think that while it will be tough, it is great to be looking forward to playing the likes of Dublin and Kerry and all the other top teams in the New Year. It can only be positive and we will know where we were coming from and where we are going this year with our senior football team. But let’s be honest here, our championship campaign in 2015 was

a complete shambles. The loss to Sligo was a disaster and Sligo’s subsequent display against Mayo showed exactly what standard they were. I know the league is bread and butter stuff, but being competitive in the championship is where it’s at and unless we get back to that mentality we are going nowhere. John Evans eventually decided not to let his name go forward for another term as senior team manager and so he departed after a successful stint. There is no doubt that John Evans did good work here and deserves credit for that, but ultimately his denial that we had serious problems in the championship led to the end of his term. His subsequent interview on RTE Radio did not enhance his reputation.

Both sides gained from his presence and it should have been left at that. The new management face a huge but exciting task at developing this young team, there is no doubt that we have plenty of talented young players but history has shown that success at U-21 level does not always lead to success at senior level. Everyone in Roscommon GAA is looking forward to 2016. Our U-21 side had a good 2015 and we won the Connacht title in style but we failed to a teak-tough Tyrone side in the All-Ireland semifinal. I like the mentality in the U-21 set-up, which is that the Connacht title is not the be all and end all of their ambitions. It means that the U-21 team would have been disappointed with the year as a

whole. In 2016 we have another very good U-21 team in prospect and I am sure Mark Dowd will get the best out of his squad.

Return of Clann At club level 2015 was all about Clann na nGael who had a great end to the year after a shaky start. They eventually won the county senior title edging out Pearses in a dour enough final. As I have been saying all year, any team who beat St Brigid’s deserve to win the county title. They have been brilliant champions and the dominant club team in Roscommon for the past decade, so it was always going to take an almighty effort to oust them. Clann will look back at that memorable day in Kiltoom

when they beat the champions in the semi-final as a major achievement in their history. Clann struggled in the county final but they deserved their title and they produced a very competitive display against Castlebar in the Connacht Championship, and with their excellent U-21 success, they will be the team to beat in 2016. I have no doubt that there will be plenty of hard training in Kiltoom next year as St Brigid’s try to wrestle back their crown.

Happy Christmas Finally, I would like to wish all Roscommon GAA people and indeed Roscommon people everywhere a happy and enjoyable Christmas and a sporting and successful New Year.

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

SportsPeople

Festive cheer for Roscommon in ﬁrst game of new era McSTAY & O’DONNELL DEBUT WITH A COMFORTABLE WIN Senior Football Challenge ROSCOMMON LAOIS

4-13 1-8

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s first game in the public eye since Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell took the reins as joint team managers ended in a comprehensive win at Kiltoom on Saturday night against a weak Laois side in a match that doubled up as a fund-raiser for the Shalom Third World charity. It would be very foolish of any Roscommon fans to be getting any notions of grandeur after this win, as Laois fielded a poor side on the night. They arrived with only 16 players, and when three of their number had to go off injured, they ended the game with just 13 men. Roscommon took two players (John McManus and Seanie Purcell) off at that stage – to even up the numbers – and referee Niall Ward called a halt to proceedings five minutes early, which was the correct course of action to take. However there were a number of positives from a Roscommon point of view. Back on the team were Conor Devaney (who was excellent), Fintan Cregg, Niall Kilroy and Geoffrey Claffey. Thomas Fetherstone was tried at full-back and John McManus at midfield, and both of them played well. There were also debuts for the Michael Glavey’s pair, Gary Patterson and Shane O’Malley, who both came on as subs. What was very noticeable was Roscommon’s pace of play. The ball was moved from defence to attack at high speed, and the handling and fitness of the players was top drawer, with the Rossies getting some great scores throughout.

It’s very early days yet, but the players on the panel will have another chance to show what they can do when they take on Meath in another pre-season challenge, also in Kiltoom, on Tuesday 29th December (throwin at 6.30 pm). In a match which was played in almost perfect weather conditions, and before a crowd of about 500 people, Laois held their own fairly well for the first quarter, but once Roscommon opened up, it was one-way traffic. Roscommon’s first goal arrived in the 6th minute and was finished by Conor Devaney after seven accurate passes had smoothly opened up the Laois defence. Donie Kingston was prominent for Laois and he was always a threat, but the visitors were limited in attack and the Roscommon defence, in which Ronan Stack and Niall McInerney did well, was seldom in trouble. Roscommon’s second goal came in the 18th minute. It was created by Cian Connolly, who showed great skill to turn his man and bear down on goal. His shot was partly-blocked and Cathal Cregg was there to toe-poke the ball home. Donie Kingston bundled home a Laois goal in the 25th minute but Roscommon were still well ahead by half-time, 2-8 to 1-4. Roscommon continued to dominate on the restart and the impressive Cian Connolly scored a fine individual goal in the 45th minute. Then when Enda Smith powered home to score Roscommon’s fourth goal, in the 49th minute, the game was over as a contest and proceedings petered out after that. It was a good start for Roscommon under their new management team but no one will be reading too much into this result as preparations for the New Year gather momentum. Roscommon: Geoffrey Claffey; Seanie McDermott, Thomas Fetherstone, David Murray; Ronan Stack, Seanie Purcell, Niall

John McManus extracts himself from a challenge. Picture: Andrew Fox

Enda Smith narrowly misses out on claiming possession. Picture: Andrew Fox

McInerney; John McManus, Enda Smith (1-1); Fintan Cregg (0-1), Niall Kilroy (02), Conor Devaney (1-0); Cian Connolly (1-3, 2 frees), Cathal Cregg (1-1), Ciaran Murtagh (0-5, 3 frees). Subs: Brian Murtagh for Murray, Gary Patterson for Stack, Shane O’Malley for McDermott. Laois: Graham Brody; Shane Murphy,

Darren Strong, Tony Connolly (0-2); Alan Farrell, Robbie Kehoe, Nigel Murphy; Jamie Farrell (0-1), Paul Kingston; Colm Murphy, Donie Kingston (1-1), Damien O’Connor; Evan Costello (0-2, frees), Gary Walsh, Rory O’Connor (0-2). Sub: Conor Delaney for C Murphy. Referee: Niall Ward (Westmeath).

Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell pictured on the sideline. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 25 December 2015

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE The Ideal Christmas Gift