2016 01 08 by Roscommon People

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

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

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OUT & ABOUT

08 January 2016

SEE PAGES 30 & 31

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 458

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IT’S A DOG’S LIFE: Cassie watches on as the Roscommon senior footballers overcome Sligo IT in the FBD League at St. Croan’s grounds, Enfield on a scoreline of 1-20 to 0-10. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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

Rise in number of gardaí injured on duty < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

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There was a significant increase last year in the level of absenteeism among local gardaí because of injuries sustained on duty last year, according to records released under the Freedom of Information Act (FoI). An Garda Síochána became subject to FoI legislation last October. Between January and October 2015, 15 officers in the Roscommon/Longford Garda Division were absent from work due to ‘occupational injury’, defined as an injury arising from garda duty. During that period, these officers missed a total of 1,934.5 days as a result of the injuries – an average of 129 days per garda. This was a sharp rise on other years:

in 2013, 14 officers in the two counties missed 1,062 days; in 2014, 13 officers missed 1,641.5 days. In total, the 292 gardaí stationed in the two counties missed 4,391.5 working days last year, with 2,457 due to ‘ordinary illness’. A total of 28 officers missed more than 28 days, while 42 missed more than ten days. An Garda Síochána refused to reveal the number of gardaí in Roscommon/Longford who were absent from work due to suspension, because it “may unintentionally lead to the identification of the individuals”. Yet they released the national figures: as of November 7, 31 gardaí missed 7,742 days due to alleged breaches of regulations in 2015.

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

62pc rise in sexual offences locally < EOGHAN YOUNGMURPHY

There was a sharp rise in the number of sexual offences in the Roscommon/ Longford Garda Division in a recent one-year period, according the Central Statistics Office’s (CSO) data. In the year ending on Sep-

tember 30, 2015, 55 sexual offences had been reported in the two counties. Fortysix were classified as rapes or sexual assaults, while the remaining nine were described as other sexual offences. The total figure represented an increase of almost 62 per cent on the year ending on September 30, 2014,

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when 34 sexual offences were reported – 31 rapes or sexual assaults and three other sexual offences. However, the number of burglaries in the division has actually fallen, an analysis of the CSO’s data for the same period has shown. In the year ending on September 30, 2015, there were 421 burglaries and related offences, including five aggravated burglaries, which are committed when a burglar enters with them a firearm, weapon or explosive. In the year ending on September 30, 2014, there were three more burglaries and related offences – 424 – including seven aggravated burglaries. This decrease was despite anecdotal evidence, which has received much publicity, of a ‘rural crime epidemic’.

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

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR FLOOD VICTIMS My home was badly flooded in recent days. I have no flood insurance and I am distraught. My husband and I work but we are low earners and I don’t know where we will find the money to get our home back to normal. Is there any help available to us? If so, how do we qualify? If your home has been flooded you may be able to get financial help from the Department of Social Protection’s Humanitarian Assistance Scheme. It is a means-tested scheme designed to provide emergency financial assistance to households who have suffered flooding damage to their homes. If you have been affected by flooding and meet a means test you may be eligible. The scheme covers emergency income support payments; damage to your home and its essential contents e.g. carpets, flooring, furniture, household appliances and bedding. Structural damage may also be considered. The Humanitarian Assistance Scheme is means tested. All household income will be considered. The means test applies the following criteria: Single people: If you have a gross household income of €30,000 or less you will get 100% of the amount allowable. For each whole €1,000 of household income above €30,000 you will be required to make a 1% contribution to the amount allowable. E.g. if you are single and have a gross household income of €35,000 you will get 95% of the amount allowable (€5,000 over the income limit of €30,000 = 5% personal contribution towards the loss). Couples: If you are married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting and have a household income of €50,000 or less you will get 100% of the amount allowable. For each whole €1,000 of household income above €50,000 you will be required to make a 1% contribution to the amount allowable. Children: The income limits are increased by €10,000 for each qualified child. One-parent household: The income limits that apply to couples also apply to one-parent households i.e. €50,000 plus €10,000 for each dependent child.

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 08 January 2016

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Pictured is Josephine from Satara Boutique presenting Harrison Centre vouchers competition winner, Cyril Hewitt from Longford, with his prize outside the Harrison Centre Café.

Coast Guard forced to cover for air ambulance < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The Irish Coast Guard (ICG) helicopter regularly attends to emergencies in Co Roscommon because of the non-availability of the air ambulance, data released by the National Ambulance Service (NAS) has shown. The air ambulance, which operates from Custume Barracks in Athlone, only operates during daylights hours and covers the entire country. There have been calls for a second helicopter to be added to the service. Statistics provided under the Freedom of Information Act show that,

on 12 occasions between January 1 and December 4, 2015, the ICG responded to emergencies in Co Roscommon because the air ambulance wasn’t available. On eight of these occasions, the air ambulance – officially known as the emergency aeromedical service – was ‘off duty’. On two occasions, it was ‘stood down’. One such incident was on September 2, when the air ambulance was stood down because of a ‘faulty door’. In the remaining incidents, the ICG provided cover because it was “only

minutes from scene” and because the air ambulance was “on another call”. There was a sharp increase in the number of times the ICG provided assistance towards the end of last year, with eight call-outs in Co Roscommon occurring between September 2 and November 23. The air ambulance service was introduced on a pilot basis on June 4, 2012, but was established on a permenent footing last July. It is designed to ensure that seriously ill or injured people in remoter areas have timely access to high-quality clinical care.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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

Tel: 090 647 8433 * MOTOR ACCIDENTS

ur ee oour SSee Column lumn oinn coBusiness e2 pag

If you were involved in an accident that was not your fault contact Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors for advice.

www.bccsolicitors.com * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

Cllr.

Eugene Murphy Roscommon-Galway Fianna Fáil General Election Candidate wishes to thank all the Delegates who helped him achieve victory at the recent Party Convention

Míle Buíochas Join the EUGENE MURPHY ELECTION CAMPAIGN by contacting 086 2507590 or email cllreugenemurphy@eircom.net

Councillor

Domnick

CONNOLLY (INDEPENDENT) A message to the people of… Roscommon/Castlerea area If there are any issues you wish to raise with me, please call me any time on

087 2451267 CLLR. DOMNICK CONNOLLY… Standing by the people Email: cllrdconnolly @roscommoncoco.ie

Back row: Richard Regan, Manager, Citizens Information Service, Roscommon; Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive, Roscommon County Council; Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh; Cllr. Paddy Kilduff ; Pat Murtagh, Director of Services, Roscommon County Council; Hugh O’Connor, Age Friendly Ireland. Front row: Martina Earley, CEO, Roscommon Leader Partnership; Camilla Kelly, Manager, Local Link, Sligo/Roscommon Transport Co-ordination Unit; Sarah Wetherald, Age Friendly Ireland Regional Consultant; Anita Kenny-Kelly, Social Inclusion Officer, Roscommon County Council and Sgt. Adrian Queeney. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

‘Time to end the stereotypes SPEAKER HITS of older people’ OUT AT ‘AGEISM’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Margaret Mulligan, the chairperson of Roscommon Older People’s Council, has called on society to change its image towards older people, describing the current attitude as “ageist”. Ms. Mulligan delivered a hard-hitting address at the recent launch of Roscommon’s AgeFriendly Strategy 2016-2020 at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon town, which was attended by a very large crowd. The strategy was officially launched by former GAA commentator Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh, whose humorous address greatly entertained the attendance. On a more serious note, however, Ms. Mulligan hit out at what she called society’s tendency to portray older people “as objects or commodities” who were “purely numerical problems”. “As one of the older people, I do meet that,” she said. “We are people who, for the most part, have worked and contributed all our lives. “We have contributed to our pensions, free travel, health care, education and now tend to be regarded as just numbers – a percentage of society who are troublesome because we continue to survive. “The concern is money-driven – how will society pay for the ongoing costs of those who continue to survive past their sell-by date?” She said that there was constant discussion about how much money the elderly cost the health system. Ms. Mulligan added: “The reality is that the vast majority of older people are no more of a demand on health services or our society than the rest of the population, just a different demand.” She said that there needed to be a change in our societal image of older people – a change, she said, needed to “come from the top”. “That is to say that a genuine change in attitude is required with regard to the ageing process,” she said. “This is linked to culture, but also to respect and better integration of all ages. “It is no harm to reflect that we are human beings with an absolute entitlement to live as long as we like, without being stereotyped as burdens on society. It is time to end the stereotypes.” She said that at present older people were being depicted as “stooped halfway to the ground and leaning on walking sticks”. She said that there was a “constant whinge from the media, emphasising that a 90 or 100year-old person was left on a trolley for 24 or 48 hours”. Ms. Mulligan added: “Nobody should have

Katelynn King, Chloe Murray and Sara Sharkey (pupils of Castlerea Community College) photographed with Micheal O’Muircheartaigh at the launch of the Age Friendly Strategy at Abbey Hotel.

Michael Pilkington (Boyle), Tom Cunnane (Castlerea), Martin Coyle (Ballaghaderreen), Bernie Kearney (Muintir na Tire) at the Age Friendly Strategy launch at Abbey Hotel. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

to spend a prolonged time on a trolley and, furthermore, they should be prioritised according to medical need, not age. The present attitude is ageist and emotive.” She said that at present almost 10,000 people in Co. Roscommon were over the age of 65, and that it was time to embrace that generation. “Over the next 20 years, older people will be healthier, more active, more independent and better educated and skilled than any generation

of over-65s before them,” Ms. Mulligan said. “It is vital that we celebrate and maximise their/our contributions to society. The message should be positive, rather than seeing ageing as a negative process.” The Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Paddy Kilduff, and its Chief Executive, Eugene Cummins, also addressed the crowd, as did Hugh O’Connor, the Chief Executive of Age Friendly Ireland.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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Roscommon People Friday 08 January, 2016

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Audit shows council owed â&#x201A;Ź2.2m in unpaid rates < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A total of 20 per cent of commercial rates in Co Roscommon were unpaid in 2014, resulting in a loss of â&#x201A;Ź2.2 million to Roscommon County Council. This was revealed in an audit of the local authority that was completed by Mary Keaney, the local government auditor, last month. The percentage of rates collected in 2014, 80 per cent, was a slight increase on previous years: between 77 and 79 per cent were paid between 2010-13. The auditor noted: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The rates collection increased during the year, resulting in additional receipts of â&#x201A;Ź0.3m and bringing the councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection percentage to its highest level in five years, which is a welcome development. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The council had â&#x201A;Ź2.2m of rates debtors at the end of 2014.â&#x20AC;? In response, the council said that they proactively managed rates debtors and, where a debtor refused to enter into discussions, it resorted to legal action. The audit also noted that the council had a 93 per cent yield for rents and annuities in 2014, which was a 2 per cent increase on the previous year. The auditor noted: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The continuing strong collection level for this income stream places Roscommon County Council amongst the best performing local authorities in the country and this is to be commended.â&#x20AC;?

Blackberry Hearing thriving in Roscommon town Blackberry Hearing, the Irish company making quality hearing aids much cheaper, has been operating a clinic out of Rosmed Pharmacy, Golf Links Road, Roscommon town, for the last few months. Every clinic involves a free hearing test, with clear and transparent advice on the options, prices and best solutions for each and every personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hearing loss. Hearing Test bookings are now being taken for the 9th and 23rd January. Call 090 66 65524 to make an appointment. To date, every clinic has been full and many people have availed of the excellent pricing and follow-up service by Blackberry Hearing. Mary Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Dowd, a local woman, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Last night, for the first time in 30 years, I asked my husband to turn up the TV! Why didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t we get his hearing aid fitted years ago? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thank you so much to everyone in Blackberry Hearing for the excellent service, friendly advice but, above all, the brilliant value for money. Hearing aids make such a big difference for the whole family. I would urge people not to delay.â&#x20AC;? There is no need now to pay exorbitant prices for hearing aids. Blackberry Hearing aids start at â&#x201A;Ź399 for one, or â&#x201A;Ź799 for a pair with the grant. They are modern, high quality, digital hearing aids made by Widex in Denmark who are

renowned as being one of the top six makers of hearing aids in the world with a strong reputation for quality. The transparent pricing of the product is a deliberate and key policy decision by Blackberry Hearing, in contrast to many traditional suppliers of hearing aids, where there is a deliberate policy of having no pricing information in store or online to inform customers. Blackberry Hearing customers to date have enthused about the price, the quality and the service, with customer video reviews being regularly posted on their Facebook page, at www.facebook.com/blackberryhearing. Blackberry Hearing keep it simple by offering two hearing aid models, both of which address from mild to profound hearing, are very discreet and comfortable and are of the highest quality. John Ryan, who co-founded the company with Dave Gleeson, added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our customers tell us that they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know they are wearing them due to the comfort, nobody else knows they are wearing them as they are hidden, but they do know instantly when not wearing them due to the difference they now make in their everyday lives.â&#x20AC;? Drop into Rosmed Pharmacy or call at 0906 665524 or phone Blackberry Hearing on 01 6978470.

There was also an increase in the collection level for housing loans but, at 53 per cent, the auditor said the level was â&#x20AC;&#x153;still far from satisfactoryâ&#x20AC;?. The auditor also reviewed the accounts of Lough Key Forest and Activity Park, Boyle, in which the council has a 50 per cent interest, and Roscommon Leisure Centre, which it wholly owns. The north Roscommon business was found to be performing well, with the audited accounts showing a profit of â&#x201A;Ź149,000 for the year. However, the leisure centre continued to struggle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; its audited accounts showed a loss of â&#x201A;Ź29,000 for 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and its future is in doubt. The auditor noted: â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the same manner as applied in the previous year, a note to the accounts highlighted uncertainty regarding the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to continue as a going concern, based on the outturn for the year.â&#x20AC;?

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Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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Roscommon excels in litter competition < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Roscommon town has maintained its high standing in the Irish Business Against Litter League by finishing seventh of 40 towns in the final round results of the 2015 Anti-Litter League Survey. The county town was described as ‘cleaner than European norms’. All approach/link roads to the town got the top litter grade this high standard was maintained for many of the remaining sites. The judges noted: “St Ciaran’s Park and Roscommon

Castle Park were both in very good condition – great resources for the town.” It was noted that there was a “virtual absence of litter” at the latter location. “Bins, signage, facilities etc were in very good order – a top ranking site throughout,” the judges said. It was noted that the Harrison Centre was “well maintained and there was a complete absence of litter throughout”. However, the judges noted that littering was prevalent at the recycle facility at Tesco and at the approach lane to Loughnaneane Park. However, those two locations were

the only two of ten areas that were assessed that did not receive a ‘grade A’ from IBAL. Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher, the chairman of Roscommon Tidy Towns Association, said that she was a “delighted” with the seventh place finish. “It’s a great start to the new year,” he said. “It is a combined effort with the council staff, Tús workers, Tidy Towns members, residents and business people which has the town to the high standard.” Longford town were declared the winners of the competition.

Pictured at the Christmas Day GOAL Mile Walk were Ross Oates, Stephen Williams and Scottie Oates. Picture: Andrew Fox

NALLY BROTHERS

Fine Gael Maura Hopkins with Dr John Barton, her director of elections for the forthcoming General Election, and Health Minister Leo Varadkar

New emergency consultant approved for Portiuncula Hospital Cllr. Maura Hopkins has welcomed the news that the Health Service Executive has given approval for a new emergency consultant to be appointed in Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe. This comes in the wake of increased capacity being implemented throughout the hospital, funded through the Capital Investment plan: a new 50-bedded replacement unit is currently being constructed in Portiuncula. “Portiuncula and its emergency department serves a wide catchment area and I welcome the news that we are to receive a new full-time Emergency Consultant in the hospital,” said Cllr. Hopkins, Fine Gael’s General Election

candidate in the Roscommon-Galway constituency. “Recently, St. Clare’s Ward and St. Francis’ Ward received significant bed expansions, as well St Claire’s now offering 12 extra beds on a seven-day basis, rather than a five. “The position for a consultant cardiologist is also being advertised at present. “We need to continue to invest our hospitals adequately to ensure not only that patients have beds, but receive a high standard of treatment. “Minister for Health Leo Varadkar visited Portiuncula on Monday of this week and I impressed on him the need for continued investment in the facility.”

Ballymahon, Co. Longford. Tel. 090 64 32387. Contact: Martin Nally, 087 2568044 or John Nolan, 087 9205325

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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Time Pieces All-Ireland award winning shop known as ‘an Aladdin’s Cave’

info@timepieces.ie www.timepieces.ie

Main Street, Roscommon. Tel. 090 6625408

Annual Sale – 20% OFF ALL STOCK STARTS FRIDAY 8th JANUARY TO SATURDAY 16th JANUARY Wishing all our customers a Happy New Year

Open: MondayThursday, 10-6pm; Friday-Saturday 10-6.30 pm

Time Pieces Annual Sale – The sale you’ve been waiting for! 20% DISCOUNT OFF ALL STOCK AT RENOWNED SHOP This national award-winning shop, Time Pieces, in Roscommon, is hosting their massive Annual Sale from Friday 8th to Saturday 16th January inclusive. Time Pieces, a leader in its field, established in 1992 and known since as ‘An Aladdin’s Cave”, is a delightful shop featuring a wonderful array of items, many of them unusual and unique, all of them eye-catching and appealing. Time Pieces currently have a wonderful selection of gifts in stock, including an amazing selection of jewellery and accessories. Antique clocks adorn the walls, amid paintings, mirrors and prints from local artists. Located on Main Street in the heart of Roscommon town, this family business is full of character and old-world elegance. Once you walk through the door, you experience

the calm, friendly ambience that is Time Pieces. A dazzling array of hand-picked jewellery and fashion accessories is beautifully displayed among carefully selected antiques and paintings, chandeliers, mirrors, lamps, dolls, dolls houses and other decorative objects for your home. The philosophy at Time Pieces is to stock items not generally available elsewhere, with something to please every age and pocket – and they are proud to have happy customers of all ages! Great care is taken to include a selection of Irish-made crafts, pottery, paintings including local crafts made in County Roscommon. Everyone is welcome at Time Pieces where shoppers are encouraged to browse at leisure in a relaxing, friendly atmosphere. Their personal touch is their hallmark, each member

of their staff has the eye for selecting that perfect gift for you. As a token of appreciation for the loyalty and support of their customers over the years, Time Pieces are offering a discount of 20%. It should be noted that sales at Time Pieces are different from many others in that the 20% discount applies to ‘Every Item of Stock’ in the shop, not just on ‘Selected Items’. Time Pieces ‘Gift Vouchers’ are especially attractive also in that they have no expiry date. Time Pieces is open Monday to Thursday 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 10.00 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. For further information contact the store on 090-6625408, email info@timepieces.ie or log onto www. timepieces.ie. Please like and share us on Facebook at Time Pieces, Roscommon.

A dazzling array of hand-picked jewellery and fashion accessories is beautifully displayed among carefully selected antiques and paintings, chandeliers, mirrors, lamps, dolls, dolls houses and other decorative objects for your home at Time Pieces, Roscommon.

Open doors to employment National Learning Network’s Employer Based Training is a free ﬂexible course. that enables you to acquire practical skills with a host company in an area of your choice, with full supports for both student and employer. If you have an illness, disability or are long-term unemployed, this twelve month course offers you the personalised support you might need to gain a QQI qualiﬁcation.

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

*MORNING GROUP* EVERY THURSDAY 9.30AM Hannon’s Hotel Athlone Road, Roscommon Call Tracy : 087 6567059

*NEW CONSULTANT* EVERY MONDAY 7.30PM Percy French Hotel, Strokestown Call Melissa : 089 2212441

EVERY WEDNESDAY 5.30PM & 7.30PM O’Rourke GAA Centre Castlerea Call Tracy : 087 6567059

EVERY THURSDAY 5.30PM & 7.30PM Hannon’s Hotel Athlone Road Roscommon Call Tracy : 087 6567059

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople Gents’ heads wanted in Lisnamult

Pictured are students and faculty from the FETAC Level 5 Barbering Technique course, Roscommon, (L/r) Anne Kelly, tutor, Ann Burke, GRETB assessor, with students Jason, Sophie, Paddy, Edel, Audrone, Jessika, Ronan, Ciara, Emma, Lisa and Kashif.

The FETAC Level 5 Barbering Technique course, Roscommon, requires gents every Tuesday and Thursday for the next few weeks, as students need to perfect their work for exams at the end of the month. The course is held at the GRETB Adult Education Centre in Lisnamult, please contact Anne on 090 6625617 for more information.

Pictured is Gemma Mulligan presenting Laoise Benton with a €100 voucher for Toy City for winning the U-7s colouring competition.

Pictured is Michael Fallon presenting Maciej Stech with a €100 voucher for Xtravision for winning the 7-12 age group colouring competition.

Pictured at the Tulsk Christmas Fair in the Tulsk Inn were Yvonne Brady and Shauna McDermott. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Tulsk Christmas Fair in the Tulsk Inn were Megan Gaughan and Alanna Blighe. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople

Dumping issues reported to County Council < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Foxes dumped in a stream, sewerage flowing into the Boyle River and a house infested with rats: these are just some of the disturbing issues that were reported to Roscommon County Council recently. Under the Freedom of Information Act, the local authority released all of the environment complaints that it received in November. On November 9, a woman phoned the council to say that approximately 12 bags of rubbish had been dumped at the side of the Ballintubber-Castleplunkett road, in the Carrowbane townland. On November 16, it was reported that a couch, two mattresses and a washing machine had been dumped in a drain about a mile and a half from Ballinlough village,

near Castlerea. The following day, a woman contacted the council to say that there was raw sewerage surrounding her house in Boyle and that this was “carrying sewerage down to the River Boyle”. This was an “ongoing issue”, she added. On November 27, the council were told that three foxes had been dumped in a stream in the south Roscommon area. The same day, they were told that a vacant house in Ballaghaderreen was “infested with rats, both inside and out”. Similarly, on November 30, an anonymous caller told the local authority that a village near Castlerea – the council redacted the exact location – was “filthy and sewerage is running down the road”. The caller also said that the “place is full of rats”.

Disability Support Group host ‘Afternoon Tea Party’ The Roscommon Disability Support Group is holding an Afternoon Tea Party in the Dale Centre, Derrane on Tuesday, 19th January from 2 pm to 3.30 pm.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople CONGRATULATIONS CREDIT UNION MEMBERS!

Roscommon Credit Union Cash Prize Christmas Draw winners, pictured at Roscommon Credit Union. In picture, from left, front: Rita Monaghan, €2,000; Bernie Moran, Roscommon Credit Union Manager and Jean Nally, €300. Back: Catherine Nugent, Roscommon Credit Union; Christy Noone, €600; Paul Raftery, €1,000; Maura Sweeney €100 and Siobhán Menton, Roscommon Credit Union. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pauline Cooney, Ballintubber, was the lucky winner in the Roscommon Credit Union December Draw. She’s pictured here receiving the keys to her new Volkswagen Up from Roscommon Credit Union Assistant Manager Alan Conboy. Also in picture are: Bernie Moran, Manager Roscommon Credit Union and Patrick Gill, Keane’s Garage. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Many local politicians against change to abortion law < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Numerous local politicians, including Independent TDs Michael Fitzmaurice and Denis Naughten, have voiced their strong opposition to scrapping Ireland’s ban on abortion. The matter looks set to be a major issue during the campaign for the forthcoming General Election, with both Government parties expressing some support for repealing the Eighth Amendment of the Constitution. Labour are particularly keen on repealing the current legislation, which grants the mother and the unborn equal right to life, and have promised to deliver a referendum of the issue if returned to power. Taoiseach Enda Kenny has pledged that, if re-elected, he would establish a constitutional convention to decide whether a referendum should be held. A number of local politicians oppose any change to the current law, however. “I wouldn’t be in favour of repealing the Eighth Amendment,” said Deputy Fitzmaurice. “I think it should stay the way it is.” He said that he feared that, if the amendment was scrapped, Ireland would introduce a much more liberal abortion regime. “I have an awful fear that we would go down the road of

where other countries went, like England,” he said. “I have no doubt it would open the door.” Deputy Naughten also strong opposes a loosening of Ireland’s abortion laws, but said that politicians wanted a “liberal abortion regime in this country”. “I wouldn’t be in favour of repealing the Eighth Amendment,” he said. “Most of those who are advocating for repealing the Eighth have not come forward with an alternative to that. “It seems to me that there is an agenda there to repeal the Eighth full stop and have a very open and liberal abortion regime in this country. “People don’t want that.” Fianna Fáil are against repeal of the amendment, and the party’s stance is supported by a number of its prominent members in Co. Roscommon. “I am absolutely against it,” said Cllr. Paddy Kilduff, the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council. “The birth of a child is sacred and I couldn’t support anything that would take away the lives of the unborn.” Senator Terry Leyden was a TD when the amendment was passed, with the support of both Fine Gael and Labour, in 1983. He is against repealing it. “I would be opposed to it,” he

said. “That’s it. It has served very well.” Cllr. Eugene Murphy echoed that view. “The party have made it quite clear that we don’t agree with the repeal of the Eighth Amendment, and I agree with that stance,” he said. Others local politicians who were contacted expressed a different view. Claire Kerrane, Sinn Féin’s General Election candidate in Roscommon-Galway, said: “Sinn Féin’s stance is that we would repeal the Eighth Amendment, and I absolutely support that view.” Boyle-based Eddie Conroy, People Before Profit/AntiAusterity Alliance’s candidate, takes a similar view. “I, and People Before Profit, support a woman’s right to make her own decisions regarding reproduction,” he said. “To achieve reproductive choice for women, we will continue to campaign for repeal of the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution which is a source of real danger to women’s lives, health and freedom.” Senator John Kelly, of the Labour Party, made it clear that he wasn’t as pro-abortion as his party. “I am going to take a very neutral stance on this issue,” he said. “I am more neutral on the issue than my party are, and

that’s the way I’ll stay. “I am not going to take the party line on it.” His sister Anne Farrell, Renua’s General Election candidate, also won’t be following her party’s line. Renua are against repealing the amendment, but Ms. Farrell isn’t. “I would vote ‘yes’ if a proper wording was put in place to replace it to reflect the difficulties women face on a daily basis, for sure,” he said. She said that she was very sympathetic to cases involving rape, incest and fatal foetal abnormality. Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan was non-committal on the issue. “I haven’t thought about it,” he said. “I am waiting for the constitutional convention to see what that decides.” Cllr. Maura Hopkins, Fine Gael’s General Election candidate, was similarly circumspect. “This is a very sensitive and complex issue,” she said. “A woman’s health and wellbeing, along with the wellbeing of the unborn, must be to the forefront of our minds. “Repealing the Eighth Amendment would remove constitutional protection for the unborn. I believe public discussion and careful consideration must take place to examine any changes required.”

Bishop slams ‘political posturing’ over abortion < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Bishop of Elphin Kevin Doran, right, has strongly criticised the ‘political posturing’ over scrapping Ireland’s outright ban on abortion. Taoiseach Enda Kenny has pledged that, if re-elected, he would establish a constitutional convention to decide whether a referendum should be held on repealing the Eighth Amendment of the Constitution. Emphasising his strong opposition to the move, Bishop Doran said: “There has been a lot of political posturing about repealing the Eighth Amendment, which is the only remaining protection unborn have in our legal system. “That protection has already been significantly eroded in recent years.” The bishop urged ‘committed Christians’ to make this an election issue, ahead of the forthcoming General Election. “Candidates must be questioned politely but firmly, not just on their future intentions, but on their past record,” he said. “These are, after all, your children and your grandchildren.” Ahead of the election, the bishop called on people to become politically active. Failing to do so would “an abdication of our responsibility”, he said. “What we need to do is consider the quality of our participation,” he said. “As Christians and citizens, we need to engage with the candidates about the questions that really matter, not just to ourselves personally, but to your society as a whole.” He said that, for example, we needed to examine carefully what the various political groupings were proposing to do about education. “Our Catholic schools have a very good track record of inclusiveness, but there are those who would like them to be less Catholic,” said the bishop. “Does religious education have a place in our schools? If you believe it does, will that influence how you vote in the election? “How will you support that choice in your own family? We are, after all, talking about your children and your grandchildren.”

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople BACK TO EDUCATION INITIATIVE COURSES (BTEI) – SPRING 2016

HANLEY TURF SALES FOR SALE

Further Adult Education Centre, Lisnamult, Roscommon Town Title of Component

Component Code

Start Date

Time

Duration

Guarding Skills (L4)

4N1118 (10 Credits)

February 27th

10.00am-5.00pm

8 Saturdays-February 27th, March 05th, 12th, 19th, April 09th, 16th, 23rd, 30th

Door Security Procedures (L4)

4N1114 (10 Credits)

Responding to threats & violence Successful completion of the components listed above will qualify the participant to apply for a licence to work in both licensed and non-licensed premises and also event security (please note there is a fee involved in applying for the licences, this is not covered by GRETB)

f r u T f o s Bag te i h W g k in 40 agsE – B s a v n a C LIVERY AVAILABL – DE

VTOS Centre, Lanesboro Street, Roscommon Town Title of Award

Award Code

Start Date

Time

Health Service Skills (5M3782) QQI Level 5

5M3782

18/01/2016 Information session Thursday 14th January (Mandatory)

7.00-10.00pm

Days Monday & Wednesday – PLEASE NOTE THIS VENUE AND TIME WILL CHANGE IN September 2016 Attending the information session is mandatory for more information

Adult Education Centre, Patrick St. Castlerea Title of Award

Award Code

Start Date

Time

Days

Introduction to Computers & Internet

3M0877

20/01/2016

10.30am-4.00pm

Wednesdays

Croghan – Organic Centre, Boyle Title of Award

Component Code

Start Date

Time

Duration

Horticulture L3 & L4

TBD

24/02/2015

TBD

Wednesdays

Information session February 17th, 11.00am. ontact Bill or JJ in Croghan Organic for more information 071-9668963

Hannons Hotel, Roscommon Town Title of Award

Component Code

Start Date

Time

Duration

Employment Law

6N4322

04/02/2016

10.00am-4.30pm

Thursday (finishes 07/04/2016)

Health Promotion

6N2214

14/04/2016

10.00am-4.30pm

Thursday (finishes 30/06/2016)

Components listed above are part of a Healthcare Supervisory Management Award, students must have completed a Major Award in Healthcare or similar field at QQI L5 to join this course

Roscommon Town/Monksland/Boyle Title of Award

Component Code

Start Date

Time

Duration

Health Service Skills

5M3782

Various depending on location

Depends on location

Depends on Component

QQI L5 in the following: Communications/Work Experience/Person Centred Focus on Disability/Care Support/Care of the Older Person/Palliative Care/ Infection Prevention & Control. Students must have successfully completed one or more Components on the L5 Healthcare Award to join the above groups. Call Stephanie for more information 090-6634189

Quad Centre, Circular Road, Roscommon Town Title of Award

Component Code

Start Date

Time

Duration

Early Childhood Education & Play

5N1773

20/01/2016

10.00am-1.00pm

Wednesdays

Title of Award

Component Code

Start Date

Time

Duration

Patient Moving & Handling

N/A

17/02/2016

9.00am-5.00pm

Wednesdays

Cuisle, Donamon

Roscommon town/Castlerea/Boyle/Monksland/Ballaghaderreen Title of Award

Component Code

Start Date

Time

Duration

ESOL/Communications/English

Intermediate-Advanced

To be decided

Information session for the above will take place in: Monksland- Involve Centre behind Pat McDonnell Paints –Tuesday January 19th 7.00pm Roscommon town, Hannons Hotel-Monday January 18th-7.00pm. Ballaghaderreen, Adult Education Centre-Thursday January 21st-7.00pm • •

Courses will only go ahead pending programme provision guidelines being met. Places are allocated on a first come first served basis with preference going to Early School Leavers

For further information call Stephanie or Sabrina at Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board 090-6634189.

•

Courses are offered free of charge to the following: - Medical/GP Card Holders - Those in receipt of a means tested Department of Social Protection payment - Those with less than Leaving Cert/QQI Level 5 All others pay fees of €210.00

Call (086) 8803772 for details

newsbriefs Animal welfare groups receive €42,500 Four animal welfare organisations in Co. Roscommon have been awarded a total of €42,500 in funding. The allocations, from the Department of Agriculture, are: Roscommon SPCA, Castlerea – €20,000; Fairyglen Community Animal Sanctuary, Arigna – €13,000; Athlone & West Midlands SPCA, Dysart, Ballinasloe – €6,500; and TNR Roscommon, Cloondray, Mount Talbot – €3,000. The news was welcomed by local TD Frank Feighan.

Hospice ecumenical service in Knock Roscommon Mayo Hospice Let Love Shine a Light ecumenical service takes place on Sunday, 17th January at 3.45 pm at the Rest and Care Centre in Knock. All those for whom lights are sponsored will be remembered and prayed for at the service. Refreshments served after the service. All are welcome.

Sub Aqua Club Fun Run Roscommon Sub Aqua Club would like to thank everyone who took part in the Santa Fun Run 2015. Well done to all participants. Big congratulations to Sinead Gannon and Frank Murphy winners of €100 for the first couple over the finish line sponsored by Danny Hibbit of Phoenix Shuttering & Formworks, Darragh Dowd winner of €25 for the first U-16 over the finish line sponsored by Declan Geraghty of DG Oil, Wiliamstown and Roscommon, and Oisin Kelly winner of €25 for the first U-10 over the finish line sponsored by Fergal Kelly of Topline Marking, Ballinlough. Congratulations to Pat Cunningham who won €462 in our recent 50/50 draw which took place in The Central Bar. The next draw will take place this Saturday (January 9th).

Young musicians entertain ‘Franks’ Last Saturday night in ‘Franks’ Lounge Ballybeg, a group of musicians gave a great night’s entertainment of music. Twelve young and talented musicians performed with style and gusto, which was gratefully received by the patrons. It is heartening to see so many young musicians take up traditional music as a hobby when at one time it wasn’t fashionable to be playing it. Let us hope the trend will continue into the future.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople 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.

ROSCOMMON CREDIT UNION LTD www.roscommoncreditunion.ie. Tel: 090-6626657

Supporters and friends of the Christmas Day GOAL Mile Walk pictured on Christmas Day. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Christmas Day GOAL Mile Walk were Fiona McCormack, Andy Mannion and Bernie Carr. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Christmas Day GOAL Mile Walk were Aisling and Caoimhe Duke. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Christmas Day GOAL Mile Walk were Kitty Hopkins, Cllr Maura Hopkins and Noeleen Rudden. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

Business Christmas in Roscommon hits the right note Chamber prepares er 201me6eting on Tuesday 19 for East mber are holding a

The combined efforts of the businesses in Roscommon town proved to be a big hit with locals and visitors over the festive season. The Christmas period

kicked off with Santa turning on the lights on the 29th of November and an added bonus for those who attended the switch on this year was the free hot drinks given out by Chamber of

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Commerce members and sponsored by Roscommon Town Team. Christmas music was piped in the town centre and also in Abbeytown. This was a first for the town and was appreciated by shoppers and businesses. The AIB branch in the town sponsored the Christmas window display competition. Lots of businesses got involved, which added to the festive spirit. The winning window was RosMed on The Golf Links Road, seen in the picture receiving €200 first prize and runner-up was Finn Electrical, Goff Street, who won €50. Sincere thanks to AIB for

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sponsoring the prizes and all the businesses for taking part. The Solstice Choir and the Convent of Mercy, awardwinning, chamber choirs, gave live performances in the town. Both choirs deserve great credit for their contribution in making Roscommon a very festive place to shop this year. An extensive media campaign was undertaken in the local papers and on local radio. There were lucky winners from all over the county and further afield with over €1,500 won by shoppers. The Chamber social media campaign reached over 19,500. Rossies living around the world said it was great to see Roscommon was alive and doing well for Christmas. The Harrison Centre and The Abbeytown businesses ran successful events in conjunction with the Chamber. This all added to the atmosphere and hopefully will become annual events. All in all it proved to be a lively Christmas with many businesses reporting a moderate increase in trade. It was the Chamber’s intension to give back to the customers by making Roscommon an excellent place to shop for Christmas and this could not have

been done without support from Roscommon Town Team and also help from Roscommon Farmers Market for the use of their marquees.

Roscommon Cha n’s Townhouse, Roscommon January, at 6.30 pm in Gleesomote Roscommon for pro can town, to see how we and give the Easter Parade Easter 2016 and also to row inmake Easter Sunday 2016 a committee a helping hand tocome along and see how you memorable occasion. Please will be held by the end of can help out. The Chamber AGMprovided in a later issue. January, 2016 – details will be

Pictured at the presentation for best Christmas windows were (L-r) Barbara Taylor AIB, Helen McDermott Ros Med. (winners) and Declan Molloy Roscommon Chamber.

Pictured at the presentation for best Christmas windows were (L-r) Declan Molloy Roscommon Chamber, John Finn of Finn Electric runner-up & Barbara Taylor AIB

Chamber calls on community to ‘Save Roscommon’ The Roscommon Chamber of Commerce is calling on all businesses in the county to support the ‘Save Roscommon’ campaign. A spokesperson said: “The business community in the county pay a large amount in rates at present and if Monksland is lost to Co. Westmeath an enormous amount of money will also be lost which goes towards providing services within the county. The fear is that this could mean more increases in rates for current businesses to counteract the rate losses in Monksland. “This is more than just rates, it is about parishes and local communities. People are proud of where they come from and to tell a Rossie that they are now from Co.Westmeath

is totally unacceptable. Not only would they move county but also province from Connacht to Leinster. Roscommon would stand to lose sports people and local clubs would suffer. We are a small county as it stands and a change of this magnitude would see our population redeuced by thousands. “It’s not only the immediate areas that would suffer, Roscommon county as a whole would be a big loser. Our children and grandchildren would not thank us if we let Monksland and the surrounding areas go without a fight. We are appealing to as many people as possible to attend the public meeting in the Athlone Springs Hotel next Monday night (11th January) at 8 pm.”

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople

Coveney visits flood-decimated south Roscommon Promises financial support to flood victims < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

On a visit to flood-decimated Clonown, near Athlone, on Wednesday morning, Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney promised that he would do his utmost to assist those affected by the crisis. Mr Coveney’s visit to south Roscommon was hastily arranged, but a significant number of residents, local politicians and farming officials turned up to make their cases heard to the under-fire Minister. Firstly, the group travelled by tractor and trailer to two of the Clonown townlands that were worst-hit by

flooding, Curraghnaboll and Callowbeg. He met numerous victims: some had to abandon their flooded homes; others had lost thousands of euros’ worth of fodder. Vast tracts of land resembled a lake, with water up the height of a fence. Mr Coveney also encountered cattle who were in jeopardy: they were located in a shed that was entirely surrounded by water. “This is a part of the country that is amongst the worst-hit by the floods this year,” said the Minister. “Let’s try and get through this emergency.” Clonown is regularly flooded at

this time of the year, but the Minister accepted that the latest spell was particularly devastating. “This is a wet area anyway at this time of the year, but people should not have to wade through water, leave their homes, move their cattle, or see over 40 of their sheep drowning in floods,” he said. Mr Coveney was heavily criticised by some people in attendance, but he insisted that the Government was doing all it could to alleviate the devastation caused to many people. “We are trying to be as generous as we can to help to get through what is an emergency for the houses and

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney with officials from Teagasc, Fine Gael Councillor Maura Hopkins and Independent TD Denis Naughten at Clonown.

A badly flooded house at Curraghnaboll, Clonown.

farms involved,” said the Minister, speaking at Clonown Community Centre after his visit to flooded lands. “We are trying to do everything we can to help businesses, home owners and farms.” He firstly outlined the “significant financial support” available to those whose homes had flooded. Mr Coveney said: “Initially, there are cash payments to make sure that you get through a difficult period and, then, once the flood waters have gone down, the damage that has been done to the house can be fixed, and you should get strong financial supports to do that.” Significant supports are also available for farmers, he said. “From a Department of Agriculture point of view, we have been concentrating on getting meal, nuts, to farms to try to get fodder on farms that are isolated,” said Mr Coveney. “More farmers in Co Roscommon have been helped than any other county.” He said that a list of affected farmers’

names had been compiled, and that they could go to their local co-op to collect free supplies of animal feed. In a further measure for these victims, Mr Coveney said: “Yesterday, the Cabinet agreed for me a fodder compensation scheme. “This means that farmers will be able to get full market value, in terms of cash, for fodder that has been damaged and destroyed. I think that will be helpful to quite a lot of farmers in this area.” He said that farmers who had suffered the loss of livestock – he referenced the drowning of 48 at Kiltoom – would also be compensated. Mr Coveney urged people to avail of the assistance that was available. “If you need help, ask for it,” he said. “A lot of people, particularly in their own homes, are very proud, trying to look after and protect their own homes, when actually they should be asking for help. “We should maybe be getting a soldier in there to man pumps at night time, so people can get to sleep.”

Livestock in danger due to extensive flooding at Curraghnaboll, Clonown.

Coveney hears devastating stories from ﬂood victims < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

On his trip to Clonown on Wednesday morning, Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney heard some heartrending accounts from flood victims. Farmer Michael Egan told him that he had to leave his home at the Callowbeg townland after it finally succumbed to week of relentless rain. “I am out of the house at the minute; I am out since after Christmas,” he said. “I was in the house at Christmas; I said that I would have this

Christmas in my own house. I live on my own.” He finally moved to his sister’s house nearby, but even that is currently under threat, with the water dangerously close. Extensive damage has been caused to his own house, he told the Minister. “All of the carpets and floors…” he said. “We took off the doors, took them off the frame. They won’t be too bad.” Mr Egan has also lost 100 bales of fodder, worth about €2,000, on his farm that keeps about 40 suckler cows. “They are all right, but

without sheds and it being so cold and damp with the floods, it’s hard to keep them healthy and not get pneumonia,” he said. Mr Coveney, while assessing the lands by tractor, expressed concern for the welfare of some of Mr Egan’s livestock, located in shed that was almost completely surrounding by water. “We are going to have to move those livestock,” said the Minister, “and maybe put them in sheds in Athlone. The department should pick up the tab.” Mr Egan, who is aged in his late 60s, said that flooding

was unfortunately a regular feature of life in Clonown, but this spell represented a new low. “I have never seen it as bad in my lifetime and all of the years I am around now,” he said. “It’s a lot worse than 2009.” Minister Coveney was also moved after hearing from a farmer whose 48 sheep drowned at Hill of Berries, Kiltoom, before Christmas. “He told me that he would get me some fodder and some compensation,” said the farmer, who asked not to be named. “That’s not too bad.”

Flood victim Michael Egan speaking to Agriculture Minister, Simon Coveney at Callowbeg, Clonown on Wednesday morning.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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Army must put emergency evacuation plan in place – Naughten Families should map ambulance access route where roads are impassible Independent TD Denis Naughten has called on the National Co-ordination Group to instruct the Defence Forces to put an emergency

evacuation plan in place for each community now marooned as a result of flooding. “Many marooned families, some who are behind up to four feet of water, are now very concerned about access to emergency medical services should they require them,” said Deputy Naughten. “Over the last number of days there have been a number of marooned families who have required urgent medical treatment and this is set to continue, as it is likely that many communities will remain marooned for a

number of weeks. In many instances the only possible emergency medical access is via the Irish Coast Guard, but in some areas there is not enough land available to set down this very large helicopter. CHALLENGES

“Each community now faces a unique set of challenges and I believe the Defence Forces must put an emergency evacuation protocol in place that ensures people have access to emergency medical care 24 hours a day, if required.

“Furthermore, there are many more homes with limited or very complicated access routes due to serious flooding of roads. “This has already caused serious challenges for ambulances trying to get to the scene of an emergency. “As a result it is important that individual homeowners in such areas note their Eircode which allows National Ambulance Control to identify their location and also record directions to their home by the quickest route that remains accessible.”

Farrell slams Taoiseach over ‘Marie Antoinette response’ to ﬂooding

Vincent and Ann Brady from Lisserdrea, Boyle pictured outside their home as neighbours and members of the Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club build sand bags around their home in an effort to keep out the floods. Pic: Brian Farrell.

Anne Farrell, Renua Ireland’s General Election candidate in Roscommon-Galway, has slammed the ‘slow response’ of Taoiseach Enda Kenny to the floods that have devastated her constituency. Ms Farrell said that when it came to this natural disaster, Mr Kenny had turned into “the Marie Antoinette of Irish politics”. “He visits floods in his own constituency but, when it comes to the floods outside of Mayo, every other county can eat cake,” said Ms Farrell. “The Taoiseach should be providing us with leadership and taking executive decisions on issues, such as whether the defence forces should be brought in to combat the appalling difficulties people are facing. “Instead the Taoiseach and the cabinet are asleep at the wheel. They had a week of warnings about this and did absolutely nothing.” Ms Farrell also said the crisis added further credibility to Renua Ireland’s plans to drastically increase the powers of local governments. She said: ‘‘This is another example of the total indifference that exists amongst Dublin’s mandarins to the needs of the west. The only time Dublin is interested in the Shannon is when they want to drain it for water. “A strong local authority with real powers, financed by local property tax would have constructed adequate flood defences by now. “The abysmal response by the capital to the floods is just the latest example of the correctness of Renua’s plans to adequately capitalise local councils.”

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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Members of the Lough Ree Sub Aqua Club bring sandbags to the Brady family home near Boyle in an effort to keep the waters from the house. Pic: Brian Farrell.

Over 100 homes marooned in county < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Co Roscommon’s flooding woes have continued over the past week. Over 100 homes are marooned; at least 19 businesses have been flooded; countless roads are impassable; livestock is in danger. These are just some of the consequences of the relentless spell of rainfall that began in mid-December and shows no sign of abating. The flooding is particularly bad in south Roscommon, where Barrymore, on the banks of Lough Ree, has become the latest impacted area. “Up to 30 houses in Barrymore are marooned,” said local councillor Paddy Kilduff, the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon

County Council. “Some of the houses are flooded and people have had to move out.” On Tuesday, Cllr. Kilduff said that the council were doing their utmost to solve the problem. He said that they were bringing out sandbags by boat to the homes and raising the roads where feasible. It’s a similar story in our areas. Homes in the south Roscommon areas of Clonown, Moore, Ballyforan, Athleague, Creagh, Kiltoom, Taughmaconnell and Dysart have also been marooned – their homes isolated by extensive flooding. But there are also been isolated cases of homes being marooned in Boyle, Castlerea, Rooskey and Strokestown. “I think there are over 100 houses in

Co Roscommon marooned and there are hundreds more where they have very restricted access,” said Independent TD Denis Naughten. While some people have been forced to evacuate, the majority have remained in their homes, accessing them by tractor or with the army’s help. Some are going to great lengths to remain at home, said Deputy Naughten. “At one house at Castleplunkett, they have to go through about 100 metres of swamp, of marshland, to get to their nearest neighbour and then get out on to the public road from there,” he said. “There are quite a lot like that at the moment.”

Vast tracts of land throughout the county remain flooded, with some farmers facing severe financial difficulty as a result. Deputy Naughten said: “There have been a number of slatted sheds that have been flooded – one in Kiltoom, one in Dysart. “There is quite a lot of stock that are marooned on islands in Clonown and Moore, where the only access to them is by boat now. “There is also a slatted shed full of cattle completely marooned in Boyle.” The council said that 19 businesses have been flooded since the torrential rain of Storm Desmond before Christmas – seven in Roscommon town, eight at Cortober, Carrick-on-Shannon, and two each in Boyle and Athleague.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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Gerry O’Malley - A truly great Rossie < SEAMUS DUKE

The death has taken place of one of Roscommon’s greatest ever GAA players and personalities, Gerry O’Malley, who passed away at the James Connolly Memorial Hospital Blanchardstown on Tuesday morning this week after an illness. Aged 89, Gerry O’Malley will be remembered as one of the greatest players ever to play football for Roscommon but his many friends and those who knew him well will say that hurling was his first love. A native of Brideswell, Gerry O’Malley was on the Roscommon senior football team at 18 and he played from 1947 to 1964 on the Roscommon football team and he played in the All-Ireland final in 1962 when Roscommon were beaten by Kerry. Gerry was captain of Roscommon that day and had to retire injured early in the second half of that game. Gerry was chosen as the footballer of the year by a panel of national GAA journalists in 1961. Gerry realised his dream of winning an All-Ireland medal when he led Ros-

common to victory against Warwickshire in the All-Ireland junior hurling final at St. Coman’s Park in 1965. Incidentally Henry Shefflin’s father Henry senior was on the Warwickshire team that day. Gerry often said afterwards that it was one of the proudest moments of his career. Indeed Gerry O’Malley was one of the very few players who played Railway Cup hurling and football in the same year, which is a feat that will probably never be equalled again in Connacht. Gerry O’Malley worked as an agricultural instructor and he lived in Swords in Co. Dublin for most of his life and while he was involved with a number of Dublin club teams over the years his passion for Roscommon GAA never waned and indeed he travelled to games in Roscommon on a regular basis for several decades. RTE radio commentator Brian Carthy was a personal friend and they travelled throughout the country to many games over the years too. One of the proudest days of his life came in 2013 when he was in the

Hogan Stand in Croke Park to see his beloved St. Brigid’s club lift the AllIreland title in dramatic fashion. Indeed Gerry shed tears that evening as his home club reached the top of the club football tree. Speaking to friends on Tuesday, Gerry O’Malley was described to me as a brilliant competitor on the field of play. Physically strong, with massive levels of energy, and a huge will to win. Veteran GAA commentator Sean Og O’Callaghan described Gerry as the best footballer he had ever seen in a book he wrote, which was a huge compliment to his prowess. Gerry also served as a President of Roscommon GAA and those who were lucky enough to have seen him in action say that not only was he was one of Roscommon’s greatest, but of the greatest players ever to play the game. Gerry O’Malley is survived by his wife Mary and sons Niall and Conor and three grandchildren, many other family members and a huge circle of friends, neighbours and colleagues. May he rest in peace.

Gerry O’Malley gives his marker a much needed breather while playing for Roscommon.

County Board pay tribute to ‘a football colossus’ Seamus Sweeney, Chairman of Roscommon GAA, said it is with great regret and sadness that we announce the passing of Gerry O Malley of the St Brigids club, a true Roscommon legend. “Gerry was a good friend to Roscommon GAA, an inspiration to any team, and a football colossus. On my own behalf and on behalf of Roscommon people everywhere I extend my deepest sympathy to his wife Mary, sons Niall and Conor his daughter in law and grandchildren on his passing. We were privileged to have known him, to have seen him and I can honestly say Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann.” Gerry wore the Roscommon jersey with distinction from November 1947 all the way through to 1964. In 1961, Gerry was chosen as the footballer of the year by the Association of Gaelic Sports Journalists in a countrywide ballot. His performances in the Connacht finals of 1952 and 1962 are rated as his best. In ‘62, he played midfield and led Roscommon to a one-point win over Galway, and he was captain when Roscommon played in the All-Ireland final, against Kerry. According to the match reports after the All-Ireland Final “Roscommon’s chances of victory were hampered

when their lion-hearted captain, Gerry O’Malley, after sustaining an injury in the first half was finally forced to retire to the bench early in the second half which virtually eliminated the prospect of Roscommon making any sort of a comeback.” Despite being known nationally as the great footballer, Gerry’s first love was hurling, and he joined Four Roads in 1945. Gerry does have an All-Ireland medal, though with Roscommon junior hurlers when they defeated Warwickshire in the 1965 final. As well as representing Connacht in inter-provincial football, he also lined out with the Connacht team in the Railway Cup hurling competition. A much loved Roscommon icon the Roscommon GAA supporters club inducted Gerry to their Hall of Fame in 2009. Gerry also served as President of the Roscommon GAA county board. After his playing career ended Gerry went on to train the Roscommon county team lads in Dublin in 1970/71. He was living full time in Dublin at this stage. In 1972, Gerry trained a Dublin football team, St. Maur’s, and they won a junior championship, and the Dublin Intermediate championship. He finally ended his active involvement in training in the early 1980s. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Gerry O’Malley leads the Roscommon team at Croke Park ahead of the 1962 All-Ireland Semi-Final v Cavan

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople In memory of Gerry O’Malley The death has taken place of one of Roscommon GAA’ best known personalities Gerry O’Malley, a native of Brideswell, who passed away on Tuesday morning at the Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, in Dublin after an illness. He was 89. An agricultural instructor by profession Gerry O’Malley played football and hurling for Roscommon, Four Roads and St. Brigid’s and Connacht. He was rated as one of the greatest footballers of his generation and one of the best ever to wear the Roscommon jersey. He played senior football for Roscommon from 1947 to 1964 and he captained Roscommon in the All-Ireland final in 1962, when they were beaten by Kerry. He was also a keen hurler and won an AllIreland junior title with Roscommon in 1965. He lived most of his adult life in Swords in Co. Dublin but he retained a great interest in Roscommon GAA and in the fortunes of St. Brigid’s and he was present in Croke Park when St. Brigid’s won the AllIreland Club SF title in 2013. He was a regular at games involving Roscommon and St. Brigid’s over the years. He was a great conversation-

alist and an intelligent and well-spoken man who was very popular throughout his lifetime. He is survived by his wife Mary and sons Conor and Niall grandchildren, sisters in law and many other relatives and friends. His remains reposed yesterday (Wednesday) in Brideswell and will re-

pose again at Rock’s Funeral Home in Swords this (Thursday) evening from 3.30 pm with removal at 5.50 pm to St. Cronan’s Church, Swords. Mass of the resurrection will take place on Friday morning at 11 am with burial afterwards in Cam Cemetery Brideswell arriving at 3 pm approximately.

Boyle’s John Joe Nerney makes a presentation to Gerry O’Malley at a function in Boyle in 1995.

Roscommon’s lion-hearted Gerry O’Malley Tony Conboy (from an earlier article, written in 2007) For a period of 18 years, from 194765, the heartbeat of Roscommon football was Gerry O’Malley. It was he who gave it hope in the latter years of the Fifties and the early years of the Sixties. While Roscommon had many fine players in that time the one name that echoed across the length and breath of the Gaelic football world was that of O’Malley. Not only did he represent his native county with distinction in both football and hurling but he was a central figure in a great Connacht team when the Railway Cup competition was a highlight of the GAA calendar. The hope always was that O’Malley would achieve his just reward and win an All-Ireland Senior Football medal. Though he came close, being in the final of 1962 and the semi-finals of ’52 and ’53 and ’61, he did not achieve the ultimate accolade. He was later feted in 1984 in The Sunday Independent/Irish Nationwide Centenary team representing ‘the greatest players never to have won an All-Ireland Senior medal’. Naturally he was also selected on both the Roscommon and Connacht teams of the century. He did win an All-Ireland medal, of which he is very proud, in 1965 when Roscommon Junior hurlers defeated Warwickshire in the Junior hurling final in St. Coman’s Park. Gerry came from Brideswell near Athlone in South Roscommon and went to school in The Marist College, Athlone. He later progressed to UCG and UCD for his Agricultural Science studies. In university he participated in the Sigerson Cup, which he regards as ‘the toughest competition I was ever involved in’. His native

area is now represented by one of the county’s top GAA clubs St. Brigid’s whose emergence in the early Fifties is in part due to the prowess and inspiration of O’Malley. He just missed out on the great period of Roscommon football in the Forties, coming on the scene in late 1947. That ‘Polo Grounds’ year Roscommon had been beaten by Cavan in the All-Ireland Semi-Final. Perhaps the inclusion of a young O’Malley might have tipped the scales otherwise. O’Malley quickly rose to stardom and was selected on The Ireland Team of 1949 who played the Combined Universities in a popular representative game of that period. These were the All-Stars of the time.

O’Malley’s greatest hours: When one defines greatness in a player it is not just the occasional great performance but a consistency over a long period laced with those exceptional performances. A large number of these performances had the sports writers reaching for the superlatives such as the Connacht Finals of ’53, ’61 and ’62. Perhaps the one most etched in the folk memory is the Connacht Final of 1962. This is aided by its linkage to a particular incident which resulted in this final becoming known as ‘The Broken Crossbar final’. The Mayo dominance of the late Forties and early Fifties was broken by an O’Malley inspired Roscommon in the Connacht Final of 1952. There was a newspaper strike at the time and legend has it that such was the scepticism with the result submitted that the Radio Éireann Sports Department held

back until it could be confirmed. The score read: Roscommon 3-5, Mayo 0-6. In a very good team performance the hero of the hour was O’Malley. He gave one of the greatest displays seen in a Connacht Final similar to Purcell in ’54. ‘The Western People’ of Mayo was generous in its praise of O’Malley as its report went, “He gave a display so outstanding that no praise of mine would give him due merit”. Four great Mayo players – Carney, Mongey, Langan and Irwin – all tried their luck on him but to no avail. Roscommon were unlucky to be beaten by Meath in the All-Ireland Semi-Final. Gerry regards this as the best Roscommon team he played in with a mix of fine new players such as O’Donogue, Kelly and Batt Lynch and some great players from Roscommon’s Golden era such as Boland, Nerney and Jackson. There was similar disappointment against Armagh in ’53. The accounts of Roscommon Championship games through the remainder of the disappointing Fifties are dominated by the performances of O’Malley and he is regularly referred to as ‘the great hearted’ and ‘the lion hearted’ warrior of the Primrose and Blue.

All-Ireland Final of 1962 Having overcome Cavan in the semifinal this All-Ireland was to have been ‘O’Malley’s Final’ with the hopes of so many wishing he would finally get his just reward. Overall there was too much pressure resting on one person’s shoulders. Alas an early injury, necessitating hospitalisation, meant he was

not the necessary influence and was eventually forced to retire as another great, Mick O’Connell, dominated for the victorious Kerry side. Gerry looked back on this as, “the greatest disappointment of my life.” O’Malley was to continue until 1965 but the great new Galway side emerged as Roscommon declined.

Club loyalty Gerry O’Malley served many units of the GAA with love, loyalty and commitment. His first major club was the famed St. Patrick’s of Knockcroghery with Jimmy Murray and many members of the great Roscommon team of the Forties. They lost the ’47 county final to their great rivals of the time, Tarmon from outside Castlerea, run by GAA president of the time Dan O’Rourke. This was followed by victories in ’48 and ’49 over another powerhouse of the time, Elphin. While these victories were sweet they were submerged when his own parish of Brideswell and Kiltoom as St. Brigid’s, emerged to defeat Elphin in ’53. After losing to the same opposition in ’57 St. Brigid’s put two titles back-toback in ’58 and ’59. A feature of these wins was that the same lineout was retained for the team in both years. His last county final victory was in ’63. He continued to follow the fortunes of St. Brigid’s and regularly attended their games and functions. There was no one prouder than he when St. Brigid’s finally achieved the Holy Grail when winning the AllIreland Club Championship in 2013. He was a great believer of the position of the club as the bedrock of the

GAA and was a very willing and visible inspiration to clubs who called on him. He has lived for a long number of years in Swords in Dublin and was a regular at games in Croke Park. His retained until the end a clear memory of the detail of his long career.

A love of hurling O’Malley was an excellent hurler having been introduced to the game by his National School teacher Master O’Sullivan. He played with the Four Roads Club where his mentor was Johnny Mee. He helped them win their first title in many years at Easter 1946 for 1945. He was only a youngster then. He was a member of five further county championship winning teams with Four Roads. He was also the major figure in a good county hurling side in this period and if he was denied his All-Ireland football medal it was hurling which provided that final accolade when Roscommon defeated Warwickshire in the All-Ireland Junior Final of 1965. He was one of a few Roscommon hurlers to play Railway Cup with the Galway dominated Connacht side. In conversation his love of hurling shone through. It is somewhat unsatisfactory just recording the mere statistics of Gerry O’Malley’s long and illustrious career as many of his displays are intertwined with an emotive response nurtured by such games as the two Connacht Finals of ’52 and ’62 when his unquenchable spirit shone through and will never be forgotten by those privileged to have seen the lion-hearted Gerry O’Malley in full flight.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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Public urged to attend public meeting on boundary review < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A huge crowd is expected to attend a public meeting over the Athlone boundary review at the Athlone Springs Hotel in Monksland on Monday, January 11, at 8 pm. The meeting will be hosted by Save Roscommon, a community organisation that was established over fears that south Roscommon is set to be governed by Westmeath County Council in the near future. The main speakers will be two wellknown businessmen, Castlerea’s John Murphy and Taughmaconnell’s John Killeen.

Save Roscommon committee member John Tiernan, a former county manager of Roscommon County Council, will give a brief introduction, while the meeting will later be open to contributions from the floor. Environment Minister Alan Kelly wants the Athlone area to be the sole responsibility of one local authority – at present, Westmeath and Roscommon county councils share the duty. He has established a boundary commission to decide which one should fulfil the duty, and they are due to report by the end of March. The news has outraged many people in south Roscommon.

Comedian Tiernan voices outrage over Athlone boundary review ‘Roscommon is soon to be disbanded’

Road Safety award for Comhairle na nÓg An initiative set up by Roscommon Comhairle na nÓg to combat underage drinking has won a ‘Special Recognition’ award at the Road Safety Authority (RSA) ‘Leading Lights in Road Safety’ Awards. RSA Chairperson Liz O’Donnell presented the group with their award at the awards ceremony, which was held in Farmleigh on Wednesday, 9th December and hosted by RTÉ News reporter, Teresa Mannion. The initiative, called NASA or No Alcoholic Substances Allowed, was set up as a partnership between Roscom-

Around 3,500 people at Ballinlough and surrounding areas have been forced to boil their water before drinking it because of the severe weather. On Tuesday, December 29, as a precautionary measure, Irish Water put

for which success has been elusive of late, will have an even smaller pool or players to choose from,” she wrote. “Clubs, societies and other community ties that have been built up over the years will be severed with the stroke of a pen. “It’s not just Roscommon that will suffer, but the whole of the west. Psychologically, the leap from Leinster to Connacht is immense. “The people of Westmeath are of a mindset that faces Dublin. Roscommon folk look towards Galway as their largest cultural centre. “I fear that the county may never recover from this attack. “Roscommon is already stuggling to fight its corner, but now the population of the county will be reduced by a further ten per cent, thus diminishing its bargaining power in central government. “Roscommon County Council will suffer a significant financial loss of the rates and rents from businesses in the re-assigned area. “Council services will be cut as a result.” Ms Tiernan expressed fears that further redrawing of the county boundaries would occur down the line. “How long will it be before the western section of Roscommon is given over to Galway, the northern section to Mayo?” she wrote.

mon Comhairle na nÓg, An Garda Síochána, Roscommon County Council, local bus drivers and the Western Region Drugs and Alcohol Taskforce in response to young people’s experiences of travelling to and from underage events. The aim of NASA is to increase the use of public transport by young people and decrease instances of underage drinking. Through NASA, local bus companies have committed to a zero tolerance policy of alcohol on board when bringing passengers to and from an underage event.

‘Boil water’ notice at Ballinlough < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Well-known commedian Eleanor Tiernan, right, has claimed that Co Roscommon would be “disbanded” if a large swath of the south of the county was governed by Westmeath County Council.The Kiltoom native has become the latest high-profile individual to condemn the controversial proposal by Environment Minister Alan Kelly. He wants the Athlone area to be the sole responsibility of one local authority – at present, Westmeath and Roscommon county councils share the duty. He has established a boundary commission to decide which one should fulfil the duty, and they are due to report by the end of March. Writing in the Ireland edition of The Times, Ms Tiernan railed against the move and said that Co Roscommon “may never recover from this attack”. “It’s like a bad dream, but it’s true: Roscommon, it seems, is soon to be disbanded,” she wrote. “Alan Kelly, the Minister for the Environment, has set up a group that will consider removing a huge chunk of Co Roscommon and add it to the existing jurisdiction of Co Westmeath. “The chunk of land in question is the largely industrial, residential and (most importantly) affluent environs of the town of Athlone in the south of the county. “As someone who was lucky enough to grow up in the area, I confess than I may be biased. “If Mr Kelly has his way, I will no longer be from Roscommon but from Westmeath. I will no longer be from Connacht, but from Leinster. Up to 7,000 people are set to have their personal identities redefined in this way.” Ms Tiernan said that the proposal would “effectively cut through the social fabric or rural Ireland” and that the fallout would be significant. “Our beloved county football team,

Pictured are members of Comhairle na nÓg who won a ‘Special Recognition’ Award at the Road Safety Authority (RSA) ‘Leading Lights in Road Safety’ Awards.

in place a precautionary ‘boil water’ notice on the Ballinlough Regional Public Water Supply, following advice from the Health Service Executive. People who live in the affected areas have been reminded that water used for food preparation and for brushing of teeth must also be boiled. The notice affects Ballinlough,

Cloonfad, Trien, Cloonkeen, Cloonbuny, Briarfield, Tonragee, Granlahan, Lowberry and surrounding townlands. Local Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice said that he expected the notice would be removed in the near future. “It is not expected that it will last long,” he said.

At the launch of the Ballinasloe’s Community Hearts ‘Fish & Chips evening’ which takes place on Friday, January 15th in Karibas were: (Back) John Ward, Karibas, acting Garda Supt. Ciaran Madden, President of the Lions Club Brian Derrane, Community Hearts Secretary Maureen Cahalan and Community Garda John Scully. Front: Ber O’Leary, Emma and Marian Cavanagh of Karibas.

‘Fish & Chips Evening’ with Ballinasloe Community Hearts Ballinasloe’s Community Hearts are pushing the boat out yet again with their annual ‘Fish & Chips Evening’. The event is planned for 6.30 pm on Friday, January 15th in Karibas, Society Street Ballinasloe. There will be special guests and lots

of spot prizes to go with the ‘Fish & Chips’ as well as lots of craic to ensure a lovely evening. Organiser Maureen Cahalan has explained that the event, which is very unique and benefits local charities is always heavily supported by the community.

Community Hearts was set up to embrace and leverage off the spirit of the community and is proving to be a huge success. Booking for this event is advisable as places are limited. For further details and to reserve your place contact John or Marian on 090 9644830.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople County Board chairman remembers a ‘diligent and honest man’ Roscommon GAA County Chairman Seamus Sweeney said “It was with great sadness that I have learned of the passing of Tommy Connolly from Four Roads. Tommy was a former member of the Roscommon Hurling Board and the Hurling Committee. “I served with him as a member of the Co Management Committee and the CCC and at all times I found him to be a diligent and honest man who put the good of players and the association to the fore in all his activities. “On my own behalf and on behalf of all the GAA family in Roscommon I extend my sympathy to his family and friends. Go ndéanfa Dia trócaire ar a anam”.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION

The late Tommy Connolly pictured here in his role as Roscommon Hurling Board Secretary along with Anthony Flaherty, Former Roscommon Hurling Board Chairman and Gerry Keane, Treasurer, at a Roscommon Hurling Board AGM. Picture: Andrew Fox

Remembering “a true gentleman” Just before Christmas came the sad news of the passing of one of the stalwarts of Roscommon hurling, Tommy Connolly, a native of Mount Talbot, who passed away on the 20th of December, 2015, peacefully at the Galway Clinic. Tommy was a former principal of Tisrara National School and was pre-deceased by his wife Veronica, son Tomás and father Michael. Dearly loved father of Sarah and Brigid and much loved son of Eileen, Tommy will be sadly missed by his loving family, neighbours, friends and indeed everyone who knew him. Roscommon Hurling Board treasurer Gerry Keane, who

worked alongside Tommy on Roscommon hurling committees, described him as “a very decent, honourable man who was quite shy and reserved but who went about his daily tasks within the GAA in a very meaningful way.” Gerry continued by saying that Tommy was “a really true gentleman who was a huge loss to the county hurling committee, a great man for dealing with the media who genuinely loved what he did. “The Connolly family are great people and everyone knew Tommy and his passing was a great shock to me,” Gerry added. Current Tisrara National School principal, Larry Tiernan, remem-

bers Tommy fondly both as teacher and, later, colleague, “Tommy taught me in 5th and 6th class and then I had the pleasure of working with him when I became a teacher and he was the principal here. “This is a very difficult time for his family and my thoughts and prayers are with his two daughters, Brigid and Sarah and his mother. “The current 6th class students would have been here when Tommy retired and we were just looking at pictures from his retirement and going down memory lane recently. He was very much part of the fabric of school life and his legacy lives on.”

Tommy Connolly – An Appreciation < SEAMUS DUKE

To sit down and write a few hundred words about someone who has passed away and that you knew well is not a very hard task as you would know their accomplishments and characteristics etc, but to talk about someone who was a good friend is very difficult, and Tommy Connolly was a very good friend I am proud to say. I was shocked that he has passed away so quickly and prematurely. I knew he was ill but didn’t realise just how seriously. I knew Tommy Connolly for years before he became involved in Roscommon hurling but it was since then that we became friends. He was one of the nicest men that I have ever met. He was intelligent, quietly spoken, thoughtful, great company, a great family man and a fiercely passionate hurling man too. He contributed hundreds of match reports and other pieces to The Roscommon People over the years. He would usually come in on a Tuesday morning with his hand written report. He would pull up a chair at my desk and we always chatted about Roscommon and Four Roads hurling first. When we had all those problems solved we went on to discuss Manchester United and how they were getting on (another shared

interest) and then he always chatted about his family who he loved dearly. He was great company and many a mighty evening and night we had in places like Athleague, Down the Hatch, Four Roads, Ballygar and other venues after matches and meetings. He loved the bit of craic and a good laugh. It was always a pleasure to meet him. He was a huge hurling man. Four Roads and Roscommon were his life-long passions and he was never unfair or biased in his reports and he had a lovely turn of phrase. Despite having to type out all his reports it was an enjoyable experience because they were so well written. Tommy had a lot of sadness in his personal life and he was always a great family man. The premature passing of his beloved wife Veronica and his son Tomas were hard blows for Tommy but he battled on bravely. It was seldom he didn’t have a smile on his face. To his daughters Sarah and Brigid and to all his relatives and many friends can I pass on my deepest sympathy. Tommy Connolly will be a loss to his family first and foremost but he will also be a huge loss to the rest of us in the wider community. It was a pleasure to know you Tommy. May your kind and gentle soul rest in peace.

The Anointing: The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord The Liturgy last week revealed the mystery of God’s plan - that in Jesus all peoples, symbolized by the Magi, have been made “co-heirs” to the blessings promised Israel. This week, we’re shown how we claim our inheritance. Jesus doesn’t submit to John’s baptism as a sinner in need of purification. He humbles Himself to pass through Jordan’s waters in order to lead a new “exodus” - opening up the promised land of heaven so that all peoples can hear the words pronounced over Jesus today, words once reserved only for Israel and its king: that each of us is a beloved son or daughter of God (see Genesis 22:2; Exodus 4:22; Psalm 2:7). Jesus is the chosen servant Isaiah prophesies in today’s First Reading, anointed with the Spirit to make things right and just on earth. God puts His Spirit upon Jesus to make Him “a covenant of the people,” the liberator of the captives, the light to the nations. Jesus, today’s Second Reading tells us, is the One long expected in Israel, “anointed...with the Holy Spirit and power.” The word Messiah means “one anointed” with God’s Spirit. King David was “the anointed of the God of Jacob” (see 2 Samuel 23:1-17; Psalm 18:51; 132:10,17). The prophets taught Israel to await a royal offshoot of David, upon whom the Spirit would rest (see Isaiah 11:1-2; Daniel 9:25). That’s why the crowds are so anxious at the start of today’s Gospel. But it isn’t John they’re looking for. God confirms with His own voice what the Angel earlier told Mary - Jesus is the Son of the Most High, come to claim the throne of David forever (see Luke 1:32-33). In the Baptism that He brings, the voice of God will hover over the waters as fiery flame, as we sing in today’s Psalm. He has sanctified the waters, made them a passageway to healing and freedom - a fountain of new birth and everlasting life. Dr. Scott Hahn, www. salvationhistory.com. (Courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

Pictured are Vanessa Hoare, Strokestown and Joe Healy after their recent wedding in Immaculate Conception Church, Templeboy, Sligo and reception in the Diamond Coast Hotel, Enniscrone.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople

Bob Geldof visits Lough Key’s Castle Island filming for his RTE/BBC programme on WB Yeats. Picture shows Sean Simon, who owns Castle Island, on Lough Key takes Bob Geldof on tour. Photo Brian Farrell. Congratulations to Joey Rooney, Lanesboro and Jenny Rice, Ballyleague who celebrated their wedding reception at the Abbey Hotel on New Year’s Eve.

Flooded business should get rates waiver – Fitzmaurice Small businesses that were damaged due to recent flooding should be relieved of their commercial rates in 2016, Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has said. “I have visited a number of businesses in the local area who have been badly affected by flooding and in some cases they had no insurance to recover lost stock and to pay for damage to buildings and contents,” he said. “I am writing to Environment Minister Alan Kelly to seek rates relief for affected businesses in 2016 and hopefully he will agree to that request. “It would help businesses get back on their feet after the flooding and would be a boost as they plan for 2016.”

Picture shows Sean Simon, who owns Castle Island, on Lough Key takes Bob Geldof on tour. Photo Brian Farrell.

Bob Geldof carries his laundry bag through Lough Key Forest Park following his visit to Castle Island. Photo Brian Farrell

Waldron’s new-look takes the bacon!

Michael and Yvonne Waldron display Waldron Meats’ new and improved packaging.

Last year ended on a high note for Roscommon food producer Waldron Meats. Celebrating a major win in the annual Blas na h-Éireann Irish Food Awards, Waldron’s scooped the prestigious Best in County Award, sponsored by Roscommon Local Enterprise Office. In addition to the top county award, Waldron’s won a gold award for their Maple & Mustard Cook ‘n’ Bag Joint. Blas na h-Éireann are hugely-acclaimed awards which are selected by a panel of 400 judges and Waldron’s products competing with more than 2,000 products from across the country. The new year will be an exciting new era for Waldron’s as they have recently launched a new brand and new packaging onto the market. Waldron’s were selected by Bord Bia to participate in the SuperBrands programme which assists smaller food producers to successfully compete with bigger more established food brand.

The launch is the culmination of Michael and Yvonne Waldron’s work on that programme where independent experts advised Waldron’s to emphasise that it is a family business with strong West of Ireland roots. Interestingly, the expert panel also advised Waldron’s to make a bigger deal of the Waldron traditional ‘Home Cured’ process which delivers more taste and flavour than mass produced competitors. The new packaging gives prominence to Waldron’s slow curing process. Taking all this feedback on board, the new look packaging has just hit the shelves. Michael explained, “We are delighted with the feedback we have. To be honest, we were nervous in making a change as our brand has served us well over the years. But as we sell more products nationwide, we need to make sure that consumers recognise Waldron’s for the premium quality we deliver”.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople

TÚS SCHEME 2016 Roscommon LEADER Partnership is currently seeking applications from community groups wishing to avail of assistance from the Tús Scheme throughout County Roscommon. The Tús Scheme provides short term, quality work opportunities for those who are unemployed by providing labour support to communities in the following areas:

Gerry Donnelly presenting a cheque for €1,160 to Gerry Coffey as winner of St. Dominic’s 50/50 Draw on 12th December, 2015. Gerry bought the ticket at the GAA County Board Convention, which was held in St. John’s Community Centre, Lecarrow, hosted by the St. Dominic’s GAA Club.

Boyle and Castlerea nursing homes set for €2.7m upgrade < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The Health Service Executive has allocated €2 million for upgrading two of its nursing homes in Boyle and Castlerea this year. Prior to Christmas, the executive released its National Service Plan 2016, in which the news was contained. A total of €1.2 million has been assigned for the refurbishment and upgrade of Plunkett Community Nursing Unit, a 38-bed facility in Boyle, to make it compliant with Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) standards.

This project is due to be completed by the second quarter of the New Year and fully operational by the third quarter. In 2016, €800,000 will be spent on the refurbishment and upgrade of Áras Mhathair Phóil, a 30-bed facility in Castlerea, to achieve HIQA compliance. It’s due to be completed and fully operational in the third quarter of 2016. The plan confirmed that the new endoscopy unit at Roscommon Hospital would be opened by March. The €5.48 million building has been completed and €3.5 million has been made available to facilitate its opening this year.

• Energy Conservation work in homes and community buildings • Caretaking, securing, supervising of community buildings and spaces • Renovation of community and sporting facilities, including the regeneration and enhancement of community, recreation and sporting spaces • Social care of the elderly, people with disabilities, community care for both pre-school and after-school groups • Community administration and community event management • Coaching for sporting activities • Maintenance and care taking of community and sporting facilities • Projects relating to not for profit cultural and heritage centres • Any other appropriate community projects identified during the course of the scheme If your community group is currently working with Tús, notification will automatically be sent to you. If you are a community group wishing to apply for the first time please contact 090 6630252 for an application form. Closing date for returning applications is: Monday 18th January 2016 at 5pm

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople

68pc of Roscommon water unaccounted for Highest rate in Ireland < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Co Roscommon has by far the highest amount of ‘unaccounted for water’ – or leaked – in the country, at 68 per cent. This was revealed in the National Oversight and Audit Commission’s Performance Indicators in Local Authorities 2014, released over Christmas. Co Roscommon’s ‘unaccounted for water’ rate, which was based on the total amount of water supplied between January and June 2015, was much higher than the national average of 46.7 per cent. The report noted: “The figure for Roscommon is somewhat of an outlier, with the next highest rate being 58 per cent in Mayo.” The report also revealed that, in 2014, Roscommon County Council had the highest percentage of vacant social properties, with 8.75 per cent. However, the county’s vacant stock includes a number of rural houses which are in isolated locations, with no demand identified. It is proposed to sell these houses, the report noted.

The local authority has 1,772 social housing dwellings: 1,348 are directly provided; 420 are provided under the Rental Accommoda-

tion Scheme (RAS); four were under the Social Housing Leasing Initiative. The report said that the 71 social housing dwellings were provided in the county in 2014. However, 68 of these were provided under the RAS; only three were purchased; no such properties were built. The report found that 79 per cent of the county was ‘slightly polluted’, which is higher than then national average of 68.64 per cent. Nine per cent of the county was classified ‘moderately polluted’ and 12 per cent ‘unpolluted’. Co Roscommon was one of the lowest local authorities areas in the country in which households had access to a ‘three-bin service’ – general waste, recycling and food waste – for waste management. Only 7 per cent, or 1,671 households, had access to this service. The report found that only 11 jobs in Co Roscommon were created with assistance from the Local Enterprise Office, which was the lowest of the 30 applicable local authority areas. The average was almost 116. Finally, only 39.81 per cent of motor tax transactions in Co Roscommon were processed online in 2014, compared to the average of 50.86 per cent.

Huge crowd at Castlerea funeral of Sinn Féin man < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A huge crowd attended the funeral Mass of a well-known Sinn Féin stalwart, Seán Regan, at St Patrick’s Church, Castlerea, on Tuesday morning. Mr Regan had been living in Emlagh, Castlerea, for many years and, until his death on Thursday, December 31, he served as the president of the Patrick Conry, Sinn Féin Cumann (Castlerea). Born in Ballinlough, west Roscommon, he spent some time in England before moving to Cushendall, Co Antrim. In 1985, he became the first Sinn Féin councillor in Antrim when he was elected in the North Antrim constituency, and served for one term. He later returned to the west of Ireland and, for many years, he ran a carpet and hardware shop in Gort, Co Galway, but had been living with his partner, Mary, in Castlerea for the past decade. Mary said: “Seán was a great man and everyone liked him. I was lucky to be in his life for 28 years; we were partners for 28 years.” Seamus O’Brien, the treasurer of the Pat Conry Sinn Féin Cumann, was a close friend of Mr Regan’s and also paid tribute to him. “Anything Seán put his mind to do, he would do,” said Mr O’Brien. “He was straight and honest. He didn’t suffer fools.” People travelled from all corners of Ireland to attend Mr Regan’s removal and funeral. He was later laid to rest at St Joseph’s Cemetery, Castlerea. He is sadly missed by his partner, Mary, along with his sons daughters and their mother, Helen.

Rising heroes would have done more about rising ﬂoods

From My Kitchen Table

MIRIAM KERINS

Our 1916 heroes fought and died to protect us from foreign inﬂuences… They must be spinning in their graves! Well folks we are well and truly into the New Year and I sincerely wish for a happy and healthy 2016 for every single one of us. That said, if just one more person asks me the unimaginative question that is “So, what’s your New Year’s Resolution going to be?” my answer will have to be “to cull you from my Facebook friend list.” What the hell is this fascination with proclaiming to make a resolution that you know you are never, ever going to keep? And, speaking of proclamations, it brings me nicely onto our 2016 celebrations where we will proudly and passionately (well I will anyway) remember our heroes and heroines of the 1916 Rising where fearless, strong, dedicated and patriotic Irish men and Irish women willingly laid down their lives for this little country of ours. In particular I look at the images of those brave men, the signatories of Poblacht Na hÉireann, whose handsome faces decorate my dining room wall. Padraig H Pearse, executed May 3rd 1916, Eamonn Ceannt, executed May 8th 1916, Thomas J Clarke, executed May 3rd 1916, Joseph Plunkett, executed May 4th 1916, James Connolly, executed May 12th 1916, Thomas MacDonagh executed May 3rd 1916, and Sean Mac Diarmada, executed May 12th 1916 and wonder what was going through their minds when they woke up on 1st January 1916. Did they, their families, loved ones and comrades realise that this was the year they would fight a fierce, single minded, self-sacrificing and brave battle for our independence only to culminate in their murders and indeed martyrdom? Did they realise, as they gathered in Liberty Hall, (on the night before), and whilst under severe threat as well as being in what I would imagine had to be unbearable pain due to their appalling injuries, they would swiftly and hastily compose those now well-known and much quoted words, ‘We declare the right of the people of Ireland to the ownership of Ireland and to the unfettered control of Irish des-

tinies, to be sovereign and indefeasible. The long usurpation of that right by a foreign people and government has not extinguished the right, nor can it ever be extinguished except by the destruction of the Irish people,’ that one hundred years later, and, despite the fact that election fever is set to grip our weather battered citizens, our leaders appear to be doing scant to protect its people from the devastation caused by the recent and ongoing floods? Then again folks, perhaps Enda and Co. are simply taking advice from that lovely lady in the know, the fragrant Ms. Teresa Mannion, and he wasn’t ignoring the good citizens of Ireland, rather he was just merely not making “unnecessary journeys.” Who knows, sure we have to give the man the benefit of the doubt. However, this is the same man whom, during our last general election, stood in front of the good folk of Roscommon and vowed to…now what was it he said, ah yes, ‘protect and defend,’ the emergency department of our county hospital. Tragically it proved to be an empty declaration because as we all know, that particular department closed its doors in July 2011 and yet the Taoiseach wonders why most of us can still manage to harbour a deep resentment towards his party to this very day. Well, let me put it to you plainly sir, it has something to do with broken promises; remembering this in the future may stand you in good stead as you play Mr. Bountiful and hand out free flags to our nation’s schools and expect our impressionable young citizens to revel in your patriotism. As I sit here writing on this bitterly cold, wet and windy morning, I have to wonder what our courageous innovative, trailblazing heroes of 1916 would think of today’s, ahem, Irish leaders. Would they, like Enda, Joanie, Finance Minister Michael Noonan and Co. have rolled over like cowering, namby, pampy, submissive weaklings when the rest of Europe threatened to pull the pin and unleash the financial grenade that consequently plunged every Irish man, woman and child into a life of despair and poverty, barely existing on the breadline; with many, tragically and disgracefully enduring a miserable subsistence on the streets? The economic crisis has hit almost every household in every county, and Roscommon, with a steady loss of enterprise and employment and sto-

ries of emigration, possibly suffering more than most. I know only too well the negative impact the downturn has personally had both emotionally and financially on my household. So I have to ask, with that in mind, would James Connolly (a 48-year-old revolutionary hero when he died), a soldier who was actually incapable of standing due to the injuries he received while trying to defend this land of ours meaning he was executed sitting down, making him the last of our leaders to be sacrificed, have signed a proclamation that effectively handed over control of our sovereignty to foreign interests? No way! He’d have torched it and rightly so! Unlike our leaders of 1916 who fought and died in a bid to protect us from foreign influences, whose ultimate aim and promise was to make sure the welfare of the Irish people were at all times respected and protected, men who were willing to lay down their lives so that we could enjoy economic freedom, our present day ‘heroes’ the same ones who puffed up their chests and preened their feathers like demented budgies, who got suited, booted, locked and loaded and sent the, ahem, party heavies over to Europe returned home with their tails between their legs having had their fence sitting arses whipped by Frau Angela (Merkel) and Tricky Nicky (Sarkozy). Yep, instead of arriving home triumphant, they rendered defeat, having been unable to secure that promised pre-election renegotiated interest rate, effectively putting an end to their ‘burn the bondholders’ pledge. But hey, you have to give it to the lads folks, our white knights in shining Armani who sat astride their high horses fought long and hard to pit their wits against a grey haired, middle aged aul biddy and an, er, vertically challenged little French geezer. Regardless of how you view the 1916 Rising, regardless of how you view the recession, regardless of how you view the 2016 celebrations and the upcoming General Election, and we all have a right to our own personal opinions on the subjects, I would say to both Enda and Joanie, that, given the obvious failure to enforce the famous 2011 election ‘five point plan,’ promises they should forgive us if their latest war cries fall on our deaf (and very wet) ears and empty pockets! Happy New Year to you all.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

Weekend

PEOPLE

SOCIAL PEOPLE:

See pages 30 and 31

GRACE KELLY CELEBRATES HOLLYWOOD-STYLE! Pictured enjoying Grace Kelly’s birthday celebrations in Oscars Venue, Roscommon were Grace Kelly, Patricia Owens and Martin Keane. Picture: Andrew Fox

This weekend why not enjoy a Strange Brew? Looking for something to do this

weekend? Why not head along to JJ’s in Roscommon town this Sunday evening and check out Strange Brew. The group have been entertaining Roscommon audiences regularly with their distinct blues sound and are preparing for another evening of great music in the popular Roscommon music venue. I recently caught up with

the band to get a feel for what makes the weekend entertaining for them. Happy New Year guys! SB: Happy New Year Roscommon! (In perfect harmony already) OK, so tell me what makes the perfect night out? SB: It’s the simple things like hanging out with mates, having a few drinks and good old laugh! How about your perfect weekend

getaway if you needed to escape? SB: Well at the moment it wouldn’t be so bad escaping the weather so anywhere as long as it’s hot and sunny! As a group, I’m letting you create your dream gig, so what one act would you really love to share the stage with? SB: There really are too many great artists to choose from. Gary: Pink Floyd! (Not sitting on the fence!) OK, New Year, new music.

What one album or piece of music should the good people of Roscommon be listening to this year? SB: Ah that’s an easy one, Deliberator by Strange Brew! (Their modesty is what I like about them!) One more before I let you leave, what can the Roscommon punters expect this Sunday in JJ’s? SB: A good fire, some good tunes and a few great beers!

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS cinema & leisure complex NEW RELEASE

minnows

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The Square, Roscommon Tel.: 090 6665640

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HAVING A PARTY? Contact us today for special offers

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Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday, 9th January:

JJ HARLOWS

Week Commencing Fri 8th—Thur 14th

Movie Times

A CHRISTMAS STAR (G)

12:25(KMC)

BROOKLYN (12A)

14:20; 19:10

DADDY’S HOME (12A)

13:25; 16:40; 18:20; 21:45

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

12:10 (KMC); 15:35; 18:50; 21:40

SISTERS (15A)

16:40; 21:30

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

13:50; 16:00; 18:50; 21:25

THE GOOD DINOSAUR 2D (PG)

11:30 (KMC); 13:45

THE HATEFUL EIGHT (18)((18)

14:45; 18:10; 20:30

Sunday 10th:

Blues session with

Strange Brew

Billy Garvin

- 6 pm in Middle Bar

The Country Ballroom

TULSK INN Are delighted to announce first appearance of

Ally Harron & Marian Curry This Saturday, 9th January €5 Admission, doors open 9.30pm

Take your pick with €100 Jackpot and numerous other prizes Wishing all a good 2016

Ireland’s fastest growing Country Music venue

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

Dancing at the Tulsk Inn Renowned country singers Ally Harran and Marian Curry will provide the music for what promises to be a wonderful night of entertainment this Saturday at the Tulsk Inn. Be sure to bring your dancing shoes for

the duo’s first appearance at the great venue as they are sure to have you on your feet all night. Admission is only €5 so come along for a great night of music which kicks off at 9.30 pm.

Dance the night away in Kilteevan Kilteevan Community Development Group invites you to dust off those Christmas cobwebs and “Get Dancing”! They are hosting a social dance and monster raffle on Friday, January 15th at the Kilteevan Community Centre. Over €1000 worth

of prizes will be given away on the night and your admission ticket for the dance will enter you into the raffle. John Gilmore and Sean Moran from J&S sound will be on the mic to provide the tunes for you to jive, waltz and boogie to. The proceeds from the dance will go towards

the development of a local park and playground, which will provide a space for young and old alike. Tickets are €10 and include entry into the draw and a wide variety of refreshments will be provided on the night. The dance kicks off at 10 pm.

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

BEER OF THE WEEK! 8 Degrees Knockmealdown Porter Style: Dry Irish stout Malt: Irish pale malt, dark crystal, roasted barley, chocolate malt, flaked barley Hops: Fuggles, Admiral Strength: 5% ABV Bitterness: 41 IBUs

JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS Entertainment at JJ’s Harlows JJ’s is the place to be this weekend for brilliant music on both Saturday and Sunday as Fia Rua and Strange Brew prepare to entertain Roscommon audiences. First up on Saturday night it’s Fia Rua, followed on Sunday evening by Strange Brew who are no strangers to JJ’s. Fia Rua – AKA Eoghan Burke – is an alternative folk troubadour, from Kildare but based in Galway, who released his third album The Sky Went Low And The Sea Went High in July of 2014. With a distinctive voice and sound Fia Rua has wowed audiences and critics alike and promises an unforgettable evening in the intimate JJ’s venue. The latest album has been described as “a folking brilliant piece of work… contemporary and timeless. 4\5 stars” by Hotpress. So come along to JJ’s this Saturday evening and see what all the fuss is about while enjoying our wide selection of craft beers.

The Paddy Finns Pool League recently came to an end with David Feeney taking first place. The attached picture shows David Feeney (winner) and Damien McSharry (runner-up) being presented with the perpetual cup and crystal by Tanya Dillion representing Paddy Finns Bar.

Roscommon Credit Union Art Competition

Roscommon Credit Union Art Competition Special section: Josh Lemos, Athleague, 3rd; Shaun Mullen, Fuerty, 1st, and Ryan Martin Timon, Ballinagard Road, 2nd. Also in picture are Sinead Bayly and Gerry Thompson, Roscommon Credit Union. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon Credit Union Art Competition 11-13 years: Heather NeilSmith, Curraghroe, 2nd; Selina Armasu, Greenfields, 1st, and Niamh Fitzgerald, Knockcroghery, 3rd. Back: Bernie Moran and Pat McDonald, Roscommon Credit Union. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon Credit Union Art Competition 14-17 years: Lucy Henderson, The Walk, 3rd; Emma Healy, Newtown, 1st; and Rachel Somers, Ardsallaghmore, Roscommon Town, 2nd. Also in picture are Gerry Thompson and Lynda Lane. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Ann Marie Murray, Knockcroghery, was winner in the Roscommon Credit Union over 18 Art Competition, pictured here with Bernie Moran, Credit Union Manager and Sinead Bayly, Roscommon Credit Union. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon Credit Union Art Competition 7 years and under: Sean Fox, Kilteevan, 3rd; Cormac Pléimeann, Hyde Court, 1st, and Rian Grogan, Hyde Court, 2nd. Back: Gerry Thompson and Lynda Lane, Roscommon Credit Union. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon Credit Union 8-10 years: Lauren O’Connor, Kilteevan, 3rd; Ciara Noone, Strokestown, 1st, and Gillian Greene, Lanesboro Road, 2nd. Back: Sinead Bayly and Pat McDonald, Roscommon Credit Union. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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

Pictured enjoying Grace Kelly’s birthday celebrations in Oscars were Grace Kelly, Suzanne Moran, Martina Hegarty and Amanda Keane.

Pictured enjoying Grace Kelly’s birthday celebrations in Oscars were Padraig Curley, Grace Kelly, Joe Lennon and Fergus Keegan.

Out & About Photographs:

Andrew Fox

Oscars Party Venue Roscommon (Right) Pictured enjoying Grace Kelly’s birthday celebrations in Oscars were Caroline Ward, Claire Leahy, Maria Gunning, Áine Frawley and Denise Earley.

Pictured enjoying Grace Kelly’s birthday celebrations in Oscars were Pat and Grace Kelly.

Pictured enjoying Grace Kelly’s birthday celebrations in Oscars were Grace Kelly and Pamela McEvoy.

(Above) Pictured enjoying Grace Kelly’s birthday celebrations in Oscars were Mary Kelly, Sandra Jolly, Patricia Owens, Martina Flaherty and Grace Kelly.

(Right) Pictured enjoying Grace Kelly’s birthday celebrations in Oscars were Rory Dunne, Adrian Forkin, Grace Kelly, Aidan Cunningham and Conor Flynn.

Pictured enjoying Grace Kelly’s birthday celebrations in Oscars were Sandra Jolly and Grace Kelly.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk were Jacinta Hanley and Áine O’Connor.

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk were Thomas Crean, Darren Gately and Mark Dowd.

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk were Robert Keane and Padraig Kelly.

Out & About Barrie Harris Walk Creggs Photographs:

Andrew Fox Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk were John, Deirdre and Padraig Feeney.

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk were Deputy Michael and Maria Fitzmaurice.

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk were Tom and Cele O’Connor.

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk were Emma Morgan, Mairéad Morgan and Eileen Morgan.

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk were Nicola Ward, Eve Cassidy, Iarla Cassidy, Bonnie Cassidy, Anne Feeney, Saoirse Cassidy, Louise Ward and Nigel Cassidy.

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk were Kate, John and Jacinta Hanley.

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk were Mary and Marie Hannon.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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

Pictured at the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run were members of the St. Dominic’s GAA Club.

Out & About Photographs:

Andrew Fox Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run Pictured at the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run were Anthony Naughton, Andrew Grady and Paul Dolan.

Pictured at the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run were Billy and Mary Gallagher.

Pictured at the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run were Geraldine McNamee, Gráinne Weir, Brenda Dolan and Niamh Dolan.

Pictured at the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run were Erin Crowley, Rachel Corcoran, Niamh Walsh and Laura Corcoran.

Pictured at the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run were Aisling Feeley, Marie and Anthony Duffy and Marian Kelly.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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

Tel: 094 9542668 www.westernforestry.com

Important step in development of hybrid ryegrass varieties Self-incompatibility is a genetic mechanism used by plants to avoid selffertilisation and promote outcrossing. The mechanism works by enabling plants to recognise their own pollen, and rejecting it in favour of pollen from another plant. In perennial ryegrass, this mechanism is controlled by at least two genetic regions that have been

named S and Z. Knowing the genes at S and Z would help breeders to develop hybrid breeding systems to produce better varieties for Irish farmers. However, despite research efforts over nearly 70 years, the genes underlying S and Z have remained uncharacterised. This prevents breeders from developing hybrid ryegrasses, thus denying grassland farm-

ers the benefits of hybrid vigour which have been demonstrated in many other crops and types of livestock. A European consortium of researchers from Ireland, UK, Denmark and Switzerland has now uncovered the gene at one of these two main regions conferring self-incompatibility in perennial ryegrass, the major forage grass in Ireland.

This research work has been reported in the scientific journal, Molecular Biology and Evolution. Dr. Susanne Barth, Teagasc research scientist, Crops, Environment and Land Use Programme, Oak Park, Carlow, said: “Knowing the genetic nature of one of the two main determinants will enable us to now work towards more directed hybrids

making use of the S and Z self-incompatibility system.” Dr. Barth said: “This strategic research has been supported by Teagasc over the last decade by enabling two postgraduate students under the Teagasc Walsh Fellowship scheme to complete their PhDs on self-incompatibility and characterisation of the S and Z regions in perennial ryegrass.”

Delays with young farmer payments unacceptable – Macra Following recent contact from distressed young farmers, Seán Finan, Macra National President, has sought a meeting with Minister Simon Coveney. Macra wants to address the ongoing delays in CAP payment to young farmers and convey the anger and frustration of these young farmers across the country. These young farmers were depending on payments in December last but have not yet received anything. Mr. Finan has been contacted by young farmers who are under severe financial pressure due to the delays in payments. These young farmers are having dif-

ficulty in communicating with the Department of Agriculture to gain an understanding of the cause of the delays. The financial hardship is causing severe pressure for many young farmers. Macra are seeking to quickly resolve these delays. Mr Finan said, “Also of serious concern to some young farmers who are farming in partnership is the delay in payment of the Basic Payment Scheme. The additional issue of young farmers in family partnerships who have not been recognised by CAP 2007-2013 and CAP 2015-2020 remains unresolved and must be addressed by Minister Cov-

eney”. Mr. Finan continued, “Macra are also seeking clarification on delays to payments due to young farmers who recently commenced their agricultural education. We are also looking for an update on payments due to young farmers relating to Basic Payment Scheme top-ups and national reserve”. The purpose of the requested meeting is to gain a full understanding of the issues behind these delays and to try to expedite matters so that Macra can communicate with young farm- Macra National President, Sean Finan, says ers and assist them in dealing delays in payments to young farmers are unacceptable. with this situation.

ICSA cautiously welcomes ﬂood assistance for farmers ICSA president Patrick Kent has cautiously welcomed the announcement of additional funding for those most affected by flooding. Following Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting,

Your farm understood At Mannion Insurances we understand what farmers want

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

farmers will benefit from a hardship recognition case fund and a fodder replacement scheme. However, Mr. Kent questioned whether there will be sufficient funds to cover the widespread damage. “Farmers have been calling for urgent practical and financial help so our hope would be that these schemes will be delivered promptly to those in need. However, a more comprehensive compensation fund similar to the UK’s Farming Recovery Fund would assist a greater number of farmers struggling to recover their livelihoods. “In addition, to prevent future flooding, funding must be made available to increase the capacity of the lower Shannon between the lakes and the ocean. De-silting and dredging

needs to be carried out to remove impediments and get the floodwaters moving more efficiently out to sea. I once again call in to question the ESB’s ability to independently manage the levels of water in the Shannon.” Mr. Kent said the introduction of a flood management coordination agency is a step in the right direction. “Nevertheless, I am concerned that it could be bogged down in bureaucratic wrangling between the different agencies. We have heard a lot of this before. Action was promised and not delivered upon. Difficult and expensive decisions on flood prevention requires real political will to overcome environmental objectors and financial constraints. It remains to be seen if that political will exists.”

Keep your farm safe

Castlerea Co-operative Livestock Mart Ltd. TELEPHONE: 094 9620300 email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com PROPERTY SERVICES PROVIDERS LICENCE NO. 002249 THURSDAY 7TH JANUARY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS WISHING ALL OUR CUSTOMERS A HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR.

FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE.

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

TOM ROGERS

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

NewsPeople

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

Water, water, and more water It’s Monday 4th January, and to all intents and purposes it’s all over, (that is the Christmas), but as I make my way to work the one thing that hasn’t stopped is the rain. The floods are everywhere; fields that once were ordinary agricultural land are now more like lakes and no matter where you look as you are driving along, all you see is water, water, and more water. There is a minor inconvenience for us heading to Athlone, that the road from Athleague over Scrine Hill is closed due to the flooding and so we have to take a little detour, through Four Roads and on through Curraghboy and into Athlone, and for a minute or two, I have to admit that I was a little bit sorry for myself until I heard the news on the radio and I thought of all the hundreds, if not thousands of our normal everyday citizens who have endured unbelievable hardship over the last three or four weeks and whose Christmases were literally a wash out. To lose your home to flood waters must be one of the worst things imaginable and it is widely accepted that houses that have been destroyed by

water will never recover! I’m not going to heap more misery on people already suffering enough by saying what can be the effects of flood damage, as I’m sure they already know too well. All I can do is wish them all well and hope the new year brings some relief, and let’s pray that the government, whoever makes it up, will react properly to this almost regular emergency and they will spend whatever money is needed to ensure this appalling disaster never happens again. Anyway back to the Christmas and after the dinner on Christmas day, it was full steam ahead, getting ready for the annual Barrie Harris walk on Stephen’s day - that really meant eating as much as I possibly could (I never drink any alcohol on Christmas day), so I’d have the required energy to complete the up, down, and round the mountain course. The day itself dawned fresh and dry, and I headed off on my own at 10 am. - I go on my own because I don’t like holding up other walkers and as the real walk starts at 12.30 pm. it means there are usually only a handful out at that early hour, and I can

stroll around at peace and at my leisure. On my way young Sean Roarke took pity on me and my well worn walking stick and he presented me with a fabulous new mountain ash one, cut on their own land and armed with the new stick, it didn’t take me long to make it to the pit stop at Mary D’s - there all the usual ladies were all ready with the tea, scones, cake, buns, and hot whiskeys and it wouldn’t have been hard to park there for the day and take up his annual offer of a lift home from

Jack the lower. However I stayed strong, had only one cup of tea, two scones, and one fruit bun, before I retrieved my new stick and headed back to the village - by now it was the proper time to start the walk and to my great delight the crowd was absolutely massive. It goes without saying that the after walk celebrations in Mikeen’s were as good as ever and nowadays, it would be very hard to imagine Creggs without the annual St. Stephen’s Barrie Harris walk. Socially that was pretty

much it until New Year’s eve, which every year happens to be my wife Carol’s birthday, amazingly since she was born and this year our children (some of them are now older than we are) sent us off to the Hotel Newport over there in Co. Mayo for the big night. They came as well and so a party of eight headed off for the western seaboard on Friday afternoon and we were not disappointed. You may recall that I told you in the summer about myself and Carol spending a night or two

in the hotel, which had recently been acquired by Kilteevan native, Peter Kilmartin and how we were treated so well by the entire staff but, especially by the general manager, Michelle Murphy - well this time it was even better and we had a night there that we will never forget. The hotel had a New Years Eve ball, complete with cocktail reception, 5 course scrumptious meal, music by the Lightening Strikes band, followed by a disco and as a package it couldn’t have been bettered - We had great fun

but I’m getting old because I was in bed many hours before the rest of the crew called a halt. I told you before but if you find yourself looking for a special, friendly place to go to for a little break, head out to the Hotel Newport, and tell Michelle the mad Creggs man sent you - if she lets you in (she might not) you will find out for yourself what makes this small rural hotel such a lovely welcoming haven. Till next week, bye for now

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run

Pictured at the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run were Florence Fetherston. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run were Bob McCormack, Bernie Carr and Jackie McCormack. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run were Niall and Sheila Carney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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

FOR SALE AT Lanesboro Road, Roscommon

Three Roscommon houses sell at Allsop auction < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Three houses in Co Roscommon sold for knockdown prices at an Allsop auction at the RDS, Dublin, last month. A semi-detached four-bedroom house at Foxwood Manor, Boyle, measuring 1,200 sq. ft., sold for €60,000. A detached four-bedroom bungalow at

Kiltobranks, Ballaghaderreen, measuring 1,572 sq. ft., sold for €50,000. A three-bedroom house at Knockroe, Croghan, near Boyle, measuring 1,152 sq. ft., sold for just €25,000. A development at Riverwalk, Castlerea, comprising of 21 apartments, a retail unit, crèche and restaurant, sold after the auction for an undisclosed amount.

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

NEW TO THE MARKET A PRIMELY LOCATED SPACIOUS 4 BEDROOM DETACHED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF C.1,750 SQFT INCORPORATING GARAGE located at SLEVINAGEE, (adjacent to the Golf club)

GOLF LINKS ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON. All offers after €150,000 to sell.

Circa 25,000 sq ft of office space, formerly the HSE.The property can be sold in 1 or 2 lots to suit. For further details please contact the office on 090 6627003 -------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET: For Sale at Ballinagard Road, Roscommon

Large site located a short distance off the main Galway to Roscommon Road with the benefit of mains sewer. For further details please contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail phughes2@ eircom.net. -------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE 7 Day License

Roscommon property wanted by Pat Hughes This week Pat Hughes is confirming that they have a number of people inquiring about various types of property in and around Roscommon. Due to a number of recent sales they urgently require all types of property for sale. At present Pat has a client looking for a 3 to 4 bedroomed detached residence located convenient to Roscommon town. Cash available. They are also looking for a 3 bedroomed bungalow convenient to Roscommon town for a cash customer. Hughes & Company are also looking for lands to rent as they have a number of people enquiring about leasing land for the coming year. If you are considering renting your land call in and talk to Pat let him advise you, his advice is free. Hughes & Company would like to take this opportunity to wish all their customers a prosperous 2016.

Radharc Na Muilleann, Lanesboro

Successful launch of Radharc Na Muilleann, Lanesboro David Diffley MIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon is pleased to advise of the successful launch of the Radharc Na Muilleann development located at Lanesboro, Co. Longford. David describes the properties as attractive residences located in a much sought after development adjacent to Lanesboro town and all amenities. The properties are currently at builders finish level throughout and are located convenient to Longford and Roscommon towns. The remain-

ing site works are currently in the process of being finished. Remaining properties include 3 bedroom semi-detached houses from €45,000 and a 4 bedroom detached house from €75,000. We now invite immediate enquiry and viewings. Price BER rating: C3 - D1. For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact David Diffley MIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email: ddiffley@propertypartners.ie.

FOR LEASE A PRIME GARAGE PROPERTY located at LANESBORO ROAD, ROSCOMMON TOWN ADJACENT TO ARDCARNE GARDEN CENTRE & GARVEYS HARDWARE. A PRIME PROPERTY OFFERING AMPLE PARKING AND LARGE SERVICE YARD.

This said property offers c. 3,600 sq ft of show rooms, administration and sales offices, toilets, stores, workshop and service bays. The said property is serviced by electric roller doors and access via large double gates to a spacious tarmacadam yardway at rear. The said property offers prime location on the edge of Roscommon town for which the Auctioneer invites viewing and offers. BER: D1 Legal: Messers Hutchinson Davidson & Co, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. 090 96 42143. -------------------------------------------------------------

Wanted by Property Partners Earley in 2016 Due to a phenomenally successful year of sales, Property Partners Earley are now seeking properties to add to their portfolio for 2016 in all areas. All types of properties in all areas are being sought to cater for recent demand and for disappointed underbidders. Properties of particular interest are residential properties in and around the general Roscommon town area, and residences within easy access of Roscommon and Athlone towns. Due to an increased volume of licenced premises sales, we now require public houses in all areas to add to our portfoio for Irish and overseas clients. All enquiries will be dealt with in the strictest of confidence. Agricultural land remains at the heart of our business and we require both large and small holdings to meet increased sales and rental demand for 2016. Land in all areas is welcomed and we offer a full valuation service free of charge for clients wishing to sell. Commercial activity has increased significantly and we invite all types of properties to add to our commercial listing for 2016. For further details or to arrange a consultation, please contact either John Earley FIPAV or David Diffley MIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

A highly attractive 4 bedroom detached residence located in a most sought after residential location convenient to Roscommon Golf Course and Roscommon town. Standing on a beautifully mature, private and spacious site area, the said property benefits from mature lawns to front and rear and with a detached garage of c. 200 sq.ft. Altogether, this is a quality property to come on the market in a highly select area for which the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers after €150,000 to sell. BER:D2 Legal: Mr Peter Jones, Messers Peter H Jones & Co, Goff St, Roscommon. 090 66 26925. -------------------------------------------------------------

Church View, Upper Church St, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

LAST 3 HOUSES REMAINING

Prime house and lands at Strokestown available at Earleys John Earley FIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon is this week offering to the market a primely located detached two storey residence of c. 1,563 sq.ft standing on c. 5 acres located at Church View, Upper Church St, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as a highly attractive 4 B/R residence standing on c. 5 acres of quality agricultural lands holding potential due location c. 500 meters from the town centre. Accommodation

briefly comprises of reception hallway, living room, sitting room, rear hallway, dining room, kitchen, shower room, 4 bedrooms in all and bathroom. The property benefits from character storage sheds, outbuildings and pen area within a courtyard setting, and gardens with sunny aspects that are not overlooked. The residence and lands can be sold independently should market interest dictate. This is a unique opportunity to purchase a property with

loads of potential and a site that is unsurpassed within the town including a field with road frontage on two sides. BER: F. Legal: Marie Connellan, Messers PA Connellan & Co, Strokestown. 071 96 33009. To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 6626579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

QUALITY 4 B/R SEMI-DETACHED & DETACHED RESIDENCES LOCATED IN THE LUXURY

“CHESTNUT GROVE” DEVELOPMENT, BESIDE TULSK VILLAGE, CO. ROSCOMMON.

Quality semi-detached & detached residences located in a select residential development beside Tulsk village and all amenities. 4 B/R semi detached from €80,000. 4 B/R detached with garage from €105,000. BER: C3 – D2. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and enquiries. Legal: Messers Kane Tuohy, Grand Canal Quay. D2. (01) 6722233.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

Classifieds

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

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

WEEKEND ON CALL EMERGENCY ROTA From 6 pm Friday 8th to Monday 11th January for Medical Emergencies Please Contact WESTDOC FOR APPOINTMENT On: 1850 365 000 EMERGENCY SURGERIES WILL BE HELD ON SAT 11am TO 12 Noon OR 4pm TO 5pm AND SUN 11am TO 12 Noon.

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

DOCTOR SURGERY

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

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

FREE CAR PARK AVAILABLE AT REAR OF SURGERY

PHONE: 090 66 25650

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

Patrick Lynch Clinical Dental Technician

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

ACCOUNTS

CAREERS

NEED HELP IN COMPLETING YOUR TAX RETURNS

CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

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

ACCOUNTS ACCOUNTANTS AND TAX ADVISERS To farmers and small businesses at fees that the small businessman can afford. Advice and consultations free. Pat Baxter & Company, Accounting Services, Clondra. Tel: (043) 3326125, (087) 2251591.

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

BOUNCING CASTLES ROSCOMMON CASTLES

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

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

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

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

Phone No: (087) 4136355

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

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

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

Tel: 087 2798704 CHIMNEY CLEANING CONNAUGHT CHIMNEY CLEANING Chimneys (Power Sweep and Vacuum - no mess) - Openfire - Stoves - Ranges Oil Boilers serviced and repaired Carpets and Upholstery cleaned Satellite and Digital TV Installation All areas covered Tel: 071 91 97984 Mob: 086 2495851 www.connaughtchimney cleaningservice.com

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

(090) 66 26023 086 8225575 PODIATRIST/ CHIROPODIST Siobhan Murray BSc (Hons) Podiatry M.Ch.S.I. Department of Health Approved Every Monday - Cuan Aire Resource Centre, St. Patrick’s Street, Castlerea

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

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:

• 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

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

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

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

Tuition in Car Car available for test

EDT LESSONS AVAILABLE Contact: Noel Burke Ballintubber

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

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2.30PM ON TUESDAY Please call us on 090-6634633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

SYL’s

School of Motoring

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

BUPA & VHI Covered

We cannot guarantee publication after this time

DRIVING LESSONS

DOCTORS’ ROTA

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

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

DOCKERY’S SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

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

(094) 98 80281/ (087) 2031909

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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. < FOR SALE: 50 bales of top class chopped dried silage. Suitable for sheep. Fuerty area. Tel: 087 6308996.

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

< QUALITY ROUND BALES of silage for sale. Also second cut pit silage for sale. Castlestrange/Fuerty area. Ring 086 6043611.

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

FOR HIRE

JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms

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

• 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

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

● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

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

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

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

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

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon

Phone: (086) 3614230

ROSCOMMON YOGA STUDIO Stone Court, Castle Street • MONDAY: Core & Tone - 7pm; Sports Yoga - 8.30pm • TUESDAY: Gentle Beginners - 10am (€7 discount class); HOT Yoga - 7.45pm • WEDNESDAY: Beginners - 6.45pm Dharma Flow - 8.15pm • THURSDAY: Beginners - 6.45pm Breaking It Down 8.15pm (all levels) • FRIDAY: Flow & Tone - 7pm

CONTACT Avril Mullally 087 7020562 Roscommon YOGA www.roscommonyoga.ie Energy Healing Treatments by appointment only

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

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

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

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

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

Located at Henry Street

PERSONAL & SOCIAL < GENTLEMAN WOULD LIKE TO MEET lady companion. Roscommon/Athlone area. Please reply to Box No: 858, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission on behalf of Ciaran Gurn and Ian Satchwell to retain - (a) Sun Room, (b) 2 no. sheds ancillary to the dwellinghouse, (c) Site Boundaries, (d) Entrance Gate at existing dwellinghouse at Ballymacurly North, Ballinaheglish, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Ph: (087) 2222874, seamusmurray60@gmail. com The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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 and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

www.morrislohan.ie ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Martin Dowd, intend on applying for planning permission on behalf of Joseph Anthony Geoghegan to construct new Sheep Shed together with all associated site works at Aghamuck Td, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Martin Dowd Rathcroghan Designs 086 2328484 The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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 and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Martin Dowd, intend on applying for planning permission on behalf of Colm Dowd to construct new New Agricultural Building to contain roofed manure pit and loose animal housing together with all associated site works at Creta Td., Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Martin Dowd Rathcroghan Designs 086 2328484 The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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 and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Martin Dowd intend on applying for planning permission on behalf of Thomas Beirne to construct new Slatted shed together with Penning Area and all associated site works at Carrownageelaun Td., Tulsk, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Martin Dowd Rathcroghan Designs 086 2328484 The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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 & such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Call (086) 8212732.

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT < ROOMS TO LET: Athlone Road, Roscommon. Contact: 087 8048853. < THREE BEDROOM HOUSE TO RENT in Roscommon town. Professionals only and references required. Tel: 086 4117834. < NEWLY REFURBISHED two bedroom apartment in Roscommon town centre. Tel: 087 7760275. < FOUR BEDROOM BUNGALOW FOR RENT: 3.5 miles from Roscommon, Fuerty area. Large garden and in quiet location. No rent allowance accepted. €150 per week. Contact: 087 1036511. < FOUR BED COTTAGE TO RENT: Fully furnished, all mod cons, two ensuite bathrooms. Athleague area. Tel: 086 8356280. LARGE 1 BEDROOM APARTMENT FOR RENT: Would suit a couple. Roscommon town area. Fully furnished. All mod cons. Tel: 086 8538519. < TO RENT: Three bed house to rent in Oldwood, Roscommon town. No pets. Tel: 086 0564143.

PSYCHIC DOLORES PSYCHIC MEDIUM CLAIRVOYANT REIKI HEALER

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

Athleague

REFLEXOLOGY

MARINA FUREY (MNRRI) African & Classical Reflexology/ 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 B. Sc. (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

Classifieds/News 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 < 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. < KIND CARING PERSON REQUIRED to mind two school-going children. Three afternoons per week, 2pm-5/5.30pm. Would suit somebody in the Glinsk, Ballymoe, Castlerea, Ballintubber area. Please reply to Box No: 856, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < EXPERIENCED PARTTIME BAR STAFF required in Roscommon town. Tel: 086 8389747. < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED to collect 6 year old child from school in Ballintubber village 1 day per week and mind child in child’s own home for afternoon. Also will be required for night-time minding occasionally. Minder will also be required to do some light housework. Please reply to Box No: 859, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

SPECIAL NOTICES GRATITUDE & NEW YEAR WISH To all my friends and neighbours in Strokestown, Tulsk, Fourmilehouse, Elphin and surrounding areas and everyone throughout the County - I sincerely thank you for supporting me in my half marathon on behalf of my nephew Arron McGinley. Your generosity, in donating was astounding, and makes me proud to live in such a caring society. All is left now is to wish one and all of you good people a very Happy Healthy Prosperous 2016 Jayne McGinley

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

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

PADRAIG HEALY Wheelchair accessible Car & Mini Bus Hire Call car direct

(086) 2714879

ATHLEAGUE CABS 1-8 Seats Wheelchair Accessible

PADDY PURCELL 087-3186590

HUGH KILDUFF Hackney Service (086) 2479829

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 HACKNEY SERVICE Tommy Gilligan, Roscommon

(086) 8099503 JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

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

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

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849. FIRST CHOICE TUTORIAL CENTRE: Leaving and Junior Certificate grinds classes available in Math, Science, Biology, Chemistry and Agricultural Science. Limited places available for January classes. For details or bookings call 087 9497825. < CASTLEREA AREA: Leaving/Junior Certificate Maths, Irish, French. Private tuition in your own home. Phone: 086 3282437. < FIFTH YEAR STUDENT REQUIRES French grinds in own home in Roscommon town. Please call 087 9008817.

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. < FOR SALE: 40kg bag of smokeless coal, only €15 per bag, delivered. Contact Tony on 086 0703946. < FOR SALE: Large lorry loads of turf. Screened and delivered. Orders taken for this year’s turf. Tel: 086 7236301.

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

USEFUL SERVICES < MAN AVAILABLE FOR Wallpapering, Painting and decorating. Tel: 086 1922546.

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

THANKGIVINGS Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

OIL BOILER SERVICE

ONLY €80 Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 96 31880 087 9100477 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAINS JETTED & CLEANED Waste Collection Permit No: NWCPO-12-11038-01

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

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

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

Call John 086 4679798 < MAN AVAILABLE FOR flat roofing, roof lights fitted, re-roofing, facia board and gutter repairs, roofing, timber, slating, tiling, stone work, chimney repairs, Insurance claims handled, attic conversions, lights, general building, etc. All types of farm work, repairs to sheds, cattle crushes, yards, concrete, fencing and painting. Contact: 087 9188170. < FURNITURE REMOVALS DELIVERY SERVICE: Household and office furniture removals. Large and small loads to all areas. Phone for free quotation: 086 2649313. Email: homemoversrc@gmail. com < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel Tom on 086 0815802.

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

Appointments STUCK IN A RUT? LOOKING FOR A NEW CHALLENGE IN SALES? THIS JUST MAY BE THE OPPORTUNITY YOU SEEK! A fantastic opportunity to join our family business with over 30 years of experience in the construction industry. CANDIDATES SHOULD BE: • Punctual and responsible • Must always demonstrate honesty & integrity • Appearance - professional business like • Computer literate - proficient in the use of smart phone/tablet. (We provide) • Influential communicate skills & demonstrate mathematical concepts • Full clean driving license and a company vehicle will be provided • Self-Motivated and Hard Working • Experience not essential as full training will be provided • You can operate from your own location • Earning potential €50k + pa Ideal candidate should be willing to learn from the ground up and we will provide you with everything that you require to be successful.

PLEASE SEND YOUR ENQUIRIES & CV TO assureodysseysales@gmail.com

PERSON REQUIRED

To work full-time in Pharmacy in Longford/Roscommon area. TRAINING WILL BE PROVIDED.

Please reply to Box No: 857, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

AtYourService HOME MAINTENANCE

House & Garden Maintenance

Alan Somers Cluain Árd, Ardsallaghmore, Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 27970 Mobile: (086) 8161651 Email: aboutthehouse@imagine.ie

Powerwashing - House, Driveway, Roof Complete Painting Service DIY Solutions

Chimney Cleaning Service NOW AVAILABLE

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS

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

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

CATHAL DOOLEY 087 6579064

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

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

Daily collection

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

Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

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

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 GLASS WORKS

Tel: 071 96 68368 - Stained Decorative

and Frosted Glass - Double Glazed Units - Bevelled Glass/ Mirrors - Glass Shelves/Table Tops - Painted Glass Splashbacks - Balcony Glass

- STOVE GLASS - Fire Rated Glass Find us on DoneDeal/boyleglass

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892

PHONE: 071-9634729 EMAIL: info@archengtech.com

TARMACADAM Contact: Gerry Monaghan

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

ROSCOMMON, WEST of IRELAND and BEYOND!!

Gerry Monaghan

New Buildings & Retroﬁt

Boyle Glass Ballinameen, Boyle,

ELITE CHIMNEY REPAIRS • Lining

WINDOWS AND DOORS

TARMACADAM

WINDOW/DOORS

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

FARMING

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

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

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

• 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

VETERINARY SUPPLIES & SERVICES

All Creatures -VETERINARY CLINIC & Shop Lanesboro Street, Roscommon. Tel/Fax: 090-6626898 Web: www.allcreatures.ie www.facebook.com/allcreaturesroscommon

SERVICES AVAILABLE:

SHOP OPENING HOURS: • Gas Anaesthetic Monday to Friday, • Digital X-Ray 8.30am to 8.00pm; Saturday, 9am to 6.00pm • Bovine & Equine Scanning AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY • In-house Blood Testing 087 2596055 - 24 HOURS • Grooming • All your Dosing & Mineral Requirements

PLEASE RING TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net

WINDOWS/DOORS CARPENTRY

Member of

GROUP

SHOWROOM:

Gary Jameson

Athlone Road, Roscommon

2nd Fix Carpentry

CAREERS

Munsboro, Roscommon • Fitted Kitchens & bedroom units • Doors, Timber Floors • Stairs • Attic Conversions and all internal woodwork

(086) 0708833/ (090) 66 34426 OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: 090 66 34633

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON! HAVE YOUR ADVERT READ BY OVER 80,000 PEOPLE WEEKLY

Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors SPECIAL OFFER NOW ON NEW RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

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

CALL NOW FOR APPOINTMENT

Donal Haughey - 086 8210710 www.roscommonwindows.ie

IS 2016 GOING TO BE YOUR YEAR TO FIND THE CAREER YOU LOVE? Whether you are starting out in your career, planning on returning from a career break or considering a change career CareerFIT can help. SERVICES INCLUDE: • Career consultations • CV advice and preparation • Interview preparation • Job searching support Call or email Mary Cronin today to find out more about one to one consultations or group workshops: Tel: 086 3701791 Email: mary@career-fit.ie Web: www.career-fit.ie Like us on facebook

Registered contractor for Home Renovation Incentive Scheme WANTED RECYCLING

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

RECYCLING OF END-OF-LIFE VEHICLES

RECYCLING ALL TYPES OF METAL

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

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

CONTACT: 087 3885054

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KEANE Barry

CUNNIFFE Joseph

KEANE Tommie

DORAN Denis

FALLON Larry

Pound Road, Ballygar Who died 4th January 1992 (24th Anniversary)

Mount Prospect (5th Anniversary)

Ballybride, Roscommon Died the 2nd January 2015

Acres House, Roscommon (4th Anniversary)

Culleenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon Who died on 7th January 2013

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

On the First Anniversary of Tommie’s death, Nan and his family wish to thank most sincerely all who sympathised and supported us through Tommie’s illness and death. Thank you to our kind neighbours, friends and relatives, who rallied around and helped in so many ways. To all the people who called to the house, phoned, sent messages of sympathy and travelled to both Tommie’s Removal and Funeral Mass - we are entirely grateful. A special thank you to the local Priests - Fr. Irek, Monsignor Travers, Fr. Eugene McLoughlin and Deacon Seamús for Tommie’s beautiful Funeral Mass. Thank you to all members of the local choir, organist Miriam Hunt and soloist Enya Reilly for the beautiful music provided at Tommie’s Funeral Mass. To the staff of both Roscommon County Hospital and Portiuncula Hospital, Dr. Padraig Brennan, Tommie’s Public Health Nurse; Margaret Comerford, nurses and doctors of Roscommon Palliative Care team, Kate, Tommie’s Irish Cancer Society nurse, Ollie McGuinness and the staff of McGuinness Pharmacy, who helped and assisted us in keeping Tommie comfortable and happy in his own home through his last few weeks. Each and every one of you provided such a wonderful service and were a tremendous help to our family - Thank you. Thank you to Tom and Patrick Smyth for their true professionalism and unique personal attention they provided throughout all of Tommie’s Funeral. Thank you to the gravediggers who carefully prepared Tommie’s final resting place. It is impossible to thank each and everyone individually. We were truly touched and grateful for all of your support over the past year. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 9th January at 10.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

In loving memory of Denis (Denny), who passed away on 15th January 2012

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

Lovingly remembered by parents Dan and Angela, brother Tony and sisters Niamh and Aine. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 9th January in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar at 7.30pm.

Loved and remembered always by his family. Masses offered.

RYAN (NEE GRADY) Anne Died 7th January 2012

JENNINGS DOORLEY Addison Beth Born sleeping 2nd January 2008 (8th Anniversary) If we could visit Heaven Even for a day Maybe for a moment Our pain would go away. We’d put our arms around you And whisper words so true That living life without you Sure is hell to do. No matter how we spend our days No matter what we do No morning dawns or evening falls When we don’t think of you. ‘Some only dream of Angels We held one in our arms’

Love always and forever, mammy, daddy and families xxx

Silent memories keep you near As time unfolds another year From our lives You may have gone But in our hearts You still live on.

Sadly missed by partner Mike, mum and dad, Pat and Annie Mae, brothers and sisters and all the extended family. Anniversary Mass for Anne and her brother Noel and sister Marie later in the year.

HANLEY Teresa (10th Anniversary) In our thoughts and prayers.

Lovingly remembered by Michael, Geraldine and family.

Our Lady of Knock Pray for him Happy, smiling, always content, Loved and respected wherever you went Always willing, helpful and kind What a beautiful memory you left behind. Deep in our hearts you will always stay, Loved and remembered every day. So treasure him Lord, In your Garden of rest For the father you gave us was simply the best.

Deeply loved and missed by your wife Eithne, daughters Denise and Rachael, sons Thomas and David, sons-inlaw, daughters-in-law and adorable grandchildren xxxx Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Friday 15th January at 10.30am.

FINAN Kathleen (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of our beloved mother Kathleen Finan, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon, (formerly of Carramore, Castlerea), who passed away on 10th January 2015 R.I.P. Loved and remembered every day, In every way and in every prayer.

Sadly missed by your loving family. First Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday 10th January 2016 at 10.30am.

In Heaven you rest No worry or pain But in our hearts You will always remain.

Always remembered by his wife Eileen and his daughters Lorraine and Noelle. Anniversary Mass for Larry will be held in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan on Friday January 8th at 8pm.

BARNES Philip (First Anniversary) In loving memory of Philip, late of Main Street, Ahascragh, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, who passed away on the 10th of January 2015 As each day dawns we think of you, As each night falls we pray for you, And in between no matter where, Deep in our hearts, You are always there. Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by your wife Dymphna, sons Kenneth and Philip, daughter Alison, son-in-law Séamus, daughters-in-law Joanne and Gillian, cherished grandchildren, relatives and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Cuan’s Church Ahascragh, on Sunday 10th of January at 10am.

FARRELL Mattie & Mary Clooneyourish, Athleague (10th and 5th Anniversaries) In loving memory of Mattie, who died on 30th December 2005 and Mary, who died on 13th January 2011

Many a lovely moment, many a silent tear, But always treasured memories of parents we loved so dear. 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 Seamus, Kieran, Marie and Sean, relatives and friends. Anniversary Mass will be offered on Saturday 9th January at 7pm in Athleague Church.

McCRANN Noel and Kathleen (5th and 27th Anniversaries)

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

Always lovingly remembered by their family. Anniversary Mass on 11th January at 8am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Our deadline for receipt of family notices is 2.30pm on Tuesday.

Ros Memorials Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

PAT: 087 7799076 PAUL: 086 6052649

• Headstones • Kerbed Memorials • Grave Site Care • Headstone Cleaning • Monument Levelling • Gravestone Repair

memorial stationery from

For brochure and sample pack call:

Athlone Road, ROSCOMMON 090 66 27500

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

FamilyNotices

newsbriefs

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

Library set for exhibition of painting

COLEMAN (Marty) Martin

FALLON Lily

NOONE Caroline

Skehard, Creggs

Lismagroon, Knockcroghery Who died on 11th January 2015 Aged 87 years (1st Anniversary)

4 Ardnanagh, Galway Road, Roscommon Who passed away on 12th January 2014

In loving memory of a dear husband and father Marty, who departed this life on 11th January 2015 Marty’s wife and family would like to thank most sincerely all of those who sympathised with us on our very sad loss. To all who attended the Funeral, called to the house, sent Mass Cards and messages of sympathy. Thank you to Fr. John McCarthy, Fr. Donnelly and to the Altar Servers. Thank you to the choir of Creggs National School. A special word of thanks to the doctors, nurses and care staff of Portiuncula Hospital who really cared for Marty so well. Thanks also to the staff of Roscommon County Hospital and the MAU Unit who took care of him over the years. Thank you to Dr. Cunningham for always being just a call away. Thanks to Moran Undertakers who looked after everything with such professionalism, and to the gravediggers for doing such a great job on preparing Marty’s final resting place. Thank you to all those who travelled long distances and we would especially like to express our gratitude to all our wonderful neighbours for their support and friendship. Please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere gratitude to you all. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for you intentions. Marty’s 1st Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 10th January in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet at 11.30am.

REILLY Michael Creevy, Roscommon Who died 3rd January 2004 (12th Anniversary)

As each day dawns We think of you, As each night falls We pray for you. And throughout our lives No matter where In our hearts you are always there.

Lovingly remembered by his wife Eilish and family. Mass offered.

Lily’s sisters Rose, Kitty and Peggy, nieces, nephews and extended family would like to sincerely thank all those who sympathised with them on Lily’s passing. Thank you to all those who attended her Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial. To those who sent Mass Cards and Sympathy Cards. Thank you to Fr. Raymond Milton and Fr. Hugh Lee who concelebrated the Funeral Mass. Thank you to the Altar Servers and Eucharistic Ministers. Special thanks to Smyth’s Funeral Undertakers for their help, kindness and professionalism. Thank you to the gravediggers for preparing Lily’s final resting place. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude. Lily’s First Anniversary Mass on Friday 8th January at 7 pm in Knockcroghery Church.

FALLON Patrick (Paddy) Culleen, Knockcroghery (3rd Anniversary)

No farewell words were spoken, No time to say goodbye, You were gone before we knew it, And only God knows why. Our hearts still ache in sadness, And secret tears still flow, What it meant to lose you, No one will ever know.

Always in our thoughts, loved and missed forever, from Mummy and Sam. Anniversary Mass on Tuesday 12th Januaryat 10.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon. BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

CLEARY Pauline Fairways, Roscommon Whose birthday occured on 6th January

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

In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather who died on 11th January 2013

Sadly missed by his wife Betty and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday 9th January at 7pm.

FALLON Patrick Joseph PJ

Gardenfort, Dysart, Ballinasloe, Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

Roscommon Macra Na Feirme 70th anniversary

Always remembered by her Godmother Joan and all the family.

We thought of you today But that is nothing new We thought of you yesterday And will tomorrow too. We think of you in silence And make no outward show For what it meant to lose you Only those who love you know. Remembering you is easy We do it everyday It’s the heartache of losing you That will never go away.

FALLON Patrick Joseph PJ

Roscommon County Library will play host to a painting exhibition next Thursday (14th January). Flin Keane, who is originally from Dublin but now calls Roscommon home, will present his work, which he describes as “a mixture of abstract and figurative, a real journey back to figurative.” The launch will start at 6.30 pm. Everyone is welcome and there will be refreshments provided.

Pauline, Shane, Dean and Mary, would like to thank all the people who sympahtised with them, on the sad passing of a dear loving husband and wonderful father. Thanks to all their neighbours and friends who helped out in their own way. To everybody who took the time to visit PJ in Galway and Roscommon Hospitals. Thanks to Fr. Beirne PP, who called to our home to be with us during our difficult time and for the beautiful Funeral Mass and Burial. To the gravediggers and choir. To Dempey’s Funeral Home, Ballyforan who took care of PJ’s Funeral in such a profesional manner. Maureen’s Food Store and Hamrock’s Brideswell for the catering of the beautiful meals. Thanks to Roscommon Hospital, doctors, nurses and kitchen staff, Geraldine Keane and Helen Ely for such great work and care they provided. We would like to personally thank a few people who were there when most needed - Lucy and Maria Kelly, David and Denise Bolger and the Fallon and Kelly family. We will be forever grateful. Sad was the parting No one could tell So sudden on earth the sorrow fell The blow was hard The shock severe To part with the one we loved so dear. Dearest still as the year departs Your memory lives within our hearts.

First Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Saturday 9th January at 8.15pm.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Call into our office: Abbey Street, Roscommon Phone: (090) 66 34633 Fax: (090) 66 34303 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

The local paper!

A special brother A special face Someone we loved and can never replace Never selfish, always kind Wonderful memories you left behind.

Roscommon Macra Na Feirme will be celebrating its 70th anniversary on Saturday, 13th February. The gathering will take place in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon and it’s shaping up to be a memorable night. There will be dinner provided and entertainment by the band ‘Charade’. Most importantly it will be an opportunity for past and present members to meet up and take a trip down memory lane. There will be a display featuring celebrated events from each decade. Tickets are on sale for €35. For more information contact Ann Marie 087-7779261.

Love your sister Phil, brother-in-law Jack and family. ~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Melting Pot set for busy month

Look around your garden Lord PJ won’t be hard to find He has a heart so full of love and a face that always smiles. Call his name out softly and when he looks your way Tell him I love him and miss him everyday.

Dearly loved and always missed, love Sister Mary Teresa x.

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The Melting Pot, Roscommon Town will play host to a Trialogue meeting on the power of positive thinking on Tuesday, 12th January at 7 pm. Trialogue is a three-way open conversation in the community about mental health issues among people using the mental health services, the personal supporters of those people such as parents, relatives, friends and those providing the mental health services. There is free entry to this event and all are welcome. For more information call Caroline on 087-1303738. Busy Needles Knitting Group meet every Wednesday in the Melting Pot community space from 10.30 am to 12 noon. The group is a forum for people to improve their knitting skill and to increase their social circle by meeting new people over tea and a chat. It’s free to enter, all welcome whether you’re a complete beginner or an expert knitter. A carers’ support group meeting for carers of loved ones with dementia will take place on Tuesday, 26th January from 7 pm – 9 pm in The Melting Pot Cafe. The guest speaker is Gerard Coffey MPSI who will present: Medications and Pharmacy Services. The talk will cover: Medications used in the management of dementia, common issues associated with medications and an overview of government medication schemes. For more information contact Bernie Dowling, The Carers Association, 090 66 27698 or Deirdre Kelly, Western Alzheimers, 090 6627816.

Pictured is Maureen Higgins, Carrowduff, Fourmilehouse, who recently graduated with a Bachelor of Business in Administration and Information Systems from GMIT.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

SportsPeople This weekend’s action

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

Creggs RFC Report

No racing in Ireland today with 2 meetings scheduled tomorrow, the refixed national hunt at Thurles, from last Monday, starting at 12.50pm and flat racing on the on the all-weather at Dundalk with stalls opening for the first at 6.05pm. Saturday’s racing takes place at Punchestown tapes back for the first at 12.20pm. On Sunday Fairyhouse races start at 12.50pm and the Tramore card rescheduled from New Year’s Day is also on at 12.35pm. The going is expected to be heavy at all meetings except Dundalk where it is standard. With rain promised over the next few days if you are going racing check that the meeting is on before leaving home. A horse I put in the infamous notebook 2 years ago after finishing 2nd in a point to point in Belharbour, Donnellan, has reappeared in the colours of JP McManus in the Beginners at Fairyhouse on Sunday. Keep an eye on him if he runs.

Local News From Holiday Racing Miss Mardan, owned locally by The Snug Bunch Syndicate, returned to the track at Thurles after an absence of 22 months and ran a cracker to finish 3rd to the market leaders Moonbeg Rose and the fav Myztique beaten 3½l and 5½l. The “Councillor” and the “Referee”, who form the syndicate are both retired and should have a lot of fun with this game mare if she stays sound. There was local success at the meet-

ing when Seabass rolled back the years to win the Novice Hurdle. The 12-Y-O was ridden by Katie Walsh to win by 6l and ¾l from Just Cause and The Westener Boy. The partnership had finished third in the 2012 Grand National and the horse won the Grade 2 paddypower.com Novice Chase at Naas which brought a 7 race winning run, over 3 years, to an end. He finished 2nd in Punchestown on New Year’s Eve. Local butcher, John Harte, is part of the Gunners Syndicate based in East Galway.

General News Newmarket trainer Don Cantillon’s veteran La Estrella last Friday won his 27th all-weather win Southwell on the 29th December under Tom Queally creating a new record for victories on synthetic surfaces. The now 13-Y-O also won on the turf at Pontefract and a 2m 4f maiden hurdle at Fakenham out of 69 runs. Retirement is not eminent yet as the old man is still enjoying his racing. Tony McCoy became only the second jockey in history to receive a knighthood in the New Year Honours list in Britain joining the great Gordon Richards. The 41-year-old Co Antrim native retired at the end of April bring a 23-year National Hunt career which produced 4,358 winners to an end. Richard Johnson brought his career tally of winners to 3,000 at Ludlow on Monday, four short of achieving that landmark over jumps. Johnson is favourite to win his first British champion jockey title having been runner-up to A P McCoy on no less than 16 occasions.

Seabass and Katie Walsh skip the last flight at Thurles.

He added another winner to the tally at Hereford yesterday when Allee Bleue won the opener. Cue Card was victorious in the King George VI Chase, trained by Colin Tizzard and ridden by Paddy Brennan at Kempton, finishing a head in front of Irish challenger Vautour on St Stephen’s Day. The 9-Y-O has already won Haydock’s Betfair Chase and is now in line for the £1m bonus if he completes the Gold Cup Treble in March. On a sad note joint owner with his wife of 63 years Jean, Bob Bishop died suddenly on Wednesday night, just four days after the highlight of his racing life. He was aged 83. R.I.P.

Point to Point View There are two meetings on this

weekend, The United Hunt point-topoint was cancelled last Sunday and will now be run on Sunday, not Saturday as originally planned, at Templenacarriga starting at 12.30pm after Sunday’s Kilfeacle meeting was postponed to Sunday Jan 24th. On Sunday racing takes place at Tinahely in Co Wicklow with a scheduled 12.30pm start. The meeting at Aghabullogue between Cork and Macroom has been abandoned as has the Duhallow Kanturk fixture at Dromahane, scheduled for Wednesday 30th December and originally postponed to last Saturday. Wishing all our readers a very Happy and Prosperous New Year and hope your punting for 2016 is productive.

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs U-14s clinical against Claremorris Connacht Under-14 League: Claremorris RFC 0 Creggs 20. Creggs U-14’s had their first Connacht League game of the new year in Dunmore last Saturday morning when they took on Claremorris RFC. Creggs had the better of the early exchanges and took the lead after ten minutes when good work up front from Lorcan Maher, Luke Divilly and Andrew Naughton created good ball for the Creggs backs and they released Aaron Lyons to score in the corner to take a 5-0 lead, which they held until halftime. Creggs forwards were defending very well in the tight and Ethan Glennon, Diamuid Fahey, Ben Finnerty and Rory Callaghan were prominent in defence and with ball in hand. In the backs Cian Glennon was ensuring good ball for the backs and Brandon Kilcommons, Darragh Kiernan and Liam Egan were excellent in attack and were unlucky with the last pass on a couple of occasions. Creggs began the second half well, and a break from Lorcan Maher was stopped just short of

the 22 and Claremorris were penalised at the breakdown. Mark Purcell converted the penalty to increase the lead to 8-0. Claremorris then had their best period of pressure after that Creggs score and they forced a lineout 5 metres from the Creggs line however Luke Divilly did well to get a hand to the lineout and Creggs turned over the ball to Aaron Lyons who beat the defender and ran the length of the pitch to score under the posts. Mark Purcell to convert and stretch the lead to 15-0. Creggs continued to press and were held short on a couple of occasions when Louis McCaffrey and Rory Callaghan were unlucky before Luke Divilly scored from close range in the last minute in the corner. Connacht Junior League: NUIG 24 Creggs 13. Coming immediately after Christmas, off the back of a long competitive layoff and against a resurgent NUIG this game always looked to be a potential banana skin for league leaders Creggs. And so it proved. Creggs remain on top but following this bonus point victory

NUIG have moved into second place five points adrift but with a game in hand. Played in relatively benign conditions but with the college pitch sticky under foot, Creggs were awarded a penalty almost immediately from the kick-off. Shane Dowd was off target but made instant amends when he ghosted through the home defence from the restart to score under the posts. In touching down however he slid injuring his ankle and bizarrely the referee refused to allow him continue after treatment for his injury, a ruling which was overturned at half-time but it meant Dowd watched the rest of the opening half from the sideline. In his absence Ger Heneghan converted Dowd’s try and added a penalty after 20 minutes, Creggs having weathered the previous ten minutes with flanker Matthew Brandon in the bin for a high tackle. Creggs conceded a soft try to Steve Butler six minutes later before Heneghan extended the Creggs lead with a penalty on the half-hour mark. That proved

Creggs drive against Claremorris in muddy conditions last weekend.

to be Creggs last score of the game and while the second half was not spectacularly one sided the students ran in three tries in the final quarter from Damo McNellis, James Kennedy and Steve Collins to secure the bonus point. Creggs did have chances but they were generally break-outs from defence which fell just short of scoring and the students had a marked territorial advantage in the second half, exerting unrelent-

ing pressure throughout with a tally of five Creggs kicks blocked down telling its own story. Creggs were undoubtedly disrupted by Dowd’s removal from the action in the first half but NUIG looked sharper throughout and well deserved their victory. This weekend Creggs are at home to Sligo and a win is vital to maintain the challenge for league honours, particularly now with NUIG gathering momentum

from four wins on the trot. Creggs: K Gavin, P Leetch, G Heneghan, T Callaghan, R Horan, S Dowd, A Callaghan, K Brandon, P Lohan, M Brandon, T Oates, B Kilcommons, A Leetch, S O Higgins, T Fleming. Replacements : R Collins, E Conlon, M Buckley, N Walker, B Donoghue. Creggs Minis will return to training next Saturday at 11 am in Creggs.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

SPORTS SPOTLIGHT

Roscommon sport in the spotlight in 2016 < DAN DOONER

Christmas is a funny old time of year when it comes to sport, while most of us get to overdose on televised events including Premier League football, darts, horse-racing, rugby and now even football from Spain, local and international athletes are busy preparing for a new year. I did enjoy the sheer volume of sport this Christmas and it finished

up last Sunday with a terrific darts final at Alexandra Palace which saw Gary Anderson retain his world title following an exhilarating 7-5 win over Adrian Lewis. Obviously there was a lot of football on TV too with the traditional Premier League fixtures and even matches from Spain where I have to say the pick of the action was Valencia’s 2-2 home draw against Real Madrid, a result which, as it turned out, cost Rafa Benitez his

job. While all this was going on and professional athletes were complaining about too much action over the festive period, local athletes were quietly going about their business in preparation for a busy and hopefully successful new year. Indeed, 2015 was hugely successful from a local point of view and the sheer volume of sport on offer in Roscommon somewhat surprised me.

Emails from various clubs, athletes, mentors, and wannabe agents have been filling my inbox since I started working at Roscommon People towers and at times it has been difficult to fit it all into the sports section each Thursday. So thank you for your patience in that regard and hopefully 2016 will see the beginning of a new look sporting spotlight which will involve even further interaction with local clubs and athletes.

Gary Anderson won his second consecutive World Darts Championship with a 7-5 win over Adrian Lewis at Alexandra Palace during a busy period of festive sport.

Darts

Handball

The Hatch finish 2015 on a high

St. Coman’s Fiona Tully has started the New Year as she finished the old one, dominating every competition she enters. Last Sunday, thanks to the nationwide flooding, she had to take a long circuitous route to Broadford, Co. Limerick to take part in the Broadford Golden Gloves Girls U-18 event, but it was all well worth it when she took the title with the minimum of fuss. In her quarter-final she beat Galway’s young and upcoming Niamh Heffernan 25-5, then beat Kildare’s Leah Doyle 25-11 in the semi-final. In the final she lay down a marker for the upcoming minor championship when she gave one of her main rivals, Tipperary’s Sinead Meagher a real trouncing. Fiona’s two-handed killing and all-round game was far too much for the Premier girl with Fiona running out a hugely impressive 25-4 winner. St. Brigid’s Handball Club, Curraghboy, hosted their annual invitational tournament last weekend with representatives from the four provinces battling it out for the coveted Packie Doyle Memorial Cup. Given the prevailing flood conditions, the strong participation in the event is testament to the high regard this tournament is held amongst the handball fraternity. Taking the main cup event for the first time for County Mayo, the Cassidy brothers from Swinford were deserved winners after a bruising four matches. Ollie and ‘The Hardybucks’ actor Peter lived up to that TV series title to take out opposition from Roscommon, Galway and Clare, after a total tournament time of ten hours. Ollie was definitely player of the tournament, showing very clever court positioning and deft touches. After a tight semi-final win over the Coughlan’s from Clare (31-29), the Cassidy brothers faced last year’s champions Denis Creighton and Sean Jennings from Lisacul, Roscommon. It proved to be another marathon match with Denis and Sean picking great shots and serving very accurately. However, Ollie Cassidy was the dominant force in the game and ensured the match was closed out on a scoreline of 31-27. In the plate event, Newport’s (Mayo) Ian McLoughlin, fresh of the plane from New York, teamed up with Moycullen’s dual handball and hurling star Seamus Conneely to take victory over Roscommon’s Darren Beatty and Oisin Naughton on a scoreline of 25-12. Accepting the Packie Doyle Cup from club president, Frank Kenny, Ollie Cassidy complimented Seamus McHugh and the Curraghboy St. Brigid’s club for their hospitality and for their efforts at hosting this preseason tournament for the benefit and enjoyment of handball players from around the country.

As the Hannon’s Hotel Sponsored Roscommon Darts League prepares to resume following the Christmas break there was one rescheduled game replayed this past week where the Hatch overcame Flanagan’s 43. This means that the Hatch finish the year in third place. Heading into 2016, McDermott’s lead the league on 38 points. The Forge (34), The Hatch (29) and Ned’s (26) complete the top four spots. Following on from these teams are Flanagan’s (24), An Bothar Rua (21), Charlie’s (20), The Hollywood (16) and Creaton’s (16). The league will not now recommence until Friday, 15th January in order to allow outstanding games to be caught up on. Once those games have been replayed the next round of fixtures will be as follows: The Hollywood v The Hatch, Ned’s Bar v An Bothar Rua, Flanagan’s v The Forge, Charlie’s v McDermott’s. For more details on further upcoming fixtures check rosdarts.com The annual A1 Singles Competition will be held in Spell’s Bar, Ballaghaderreen on Saturday, January 16th. As always the format will see all games played on a double in/double out basis. Entry fee is €10 per player and €5 for youths and the competition is open to all players. Names are to be in by 4.30 pm with the first games to begin at 5 pm. There will be four permanently fixed boards in use for competition. The format will be best of 5x501 double in/double out initially. The prize fund will consist of money in/money out plus a top up kindly sponsored by A1 Roofing Ltd. There will be prizes for highest checkout, quarter-final losers, semi-final losers, runner-up and winner, while there will be trophies for both the winner and runnerup. Finger food on the day. All welcome!

Pictured are Castle Street Tyres (Lohan’s) who won this year’s Winter Astroturf League held just before Christmas at the Astroturf pitch, Lisnamult, Roscommon town. Also photographed is Norio Morelli from Norio’s takeaway who sponsored the first prize of €500.

Golf

Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club Happy New Year to all our sponsors, members and visitors to Carrick-onShannon Golf Club. We hope yours is a prosperous, peaceful and enjoyable new year. Congratulations to Mary King who rounded off 2015 by winning Golfer of the Year. Lidl Lynch/Garvey Cups: Sincere thanks to Lidl for their generous sponsorship of the Lidl Lynch/Garvey Cups. Mary Molloy won the Lidl Lynch Cup with Mary King runner-up. The Lidl Garvey Cup was won by Anne Cox with Tracey Beirne as runner-up. Anne Keenan took the Silver Medal for 2015 while Anna Smith won the Bronze Mary Molloy is presented with the 2015 Lidl Medal. Anna Smith also won 2015 Sil- Lynch Cup at Carrick-on-Shannon Golf Club by outgoing Competition Secretary Brenda Kelly. ver Spoon.

What you tweetin’ about?

Basketball

Cycling

Guillem Balague @GuillemBalague Rafa’s time at Real Madrid is up...(Sky Sports’ Spanish expert leaks the news of Rafa’s impending doom.)

Castlerea girls set for All-Ireland

South Roscommon Cycling Club kitted out for 2016 South Roscommon Cycling Club would like to acknowledge the kind sponsors who contributed to the club’s new cycling gear: Gannon Cleaning Services, DB Cycles, Liam Murray Construction, Supermacs, Pro-Line Hardware, D Golden Landscapes, McNeills Bar, Planalife, Ray O’Reilly Disco, Athlone Optimal Therapy, Shamrock Lodge Hotel and Conneely Construction. The club would also like to thank all those who contributed towards organising the gear, it is very much appreciated, job well done! South Roscommon Cycling Club leaves Johnstown at 10 am every Sunday morning. New members are always welcome.

Off The Ball @offtheball Seamus Coleman takes a tumble over a steward and seems to hurt his upper arm. Stewards don’t help. Poor form. (The indifference shown to a prone Coleman doesn’t go unnoticed!) Roscommon GAA @RoscommonGAA Good start to the season today with a win in the FBD League. Thanks to all our fans who came along and Croan’s. (Roscommon footballers continue their solid start under new management.)

Castlerea U-16 girls have been given a home draw against Ulidia Integrated from Co. Down in the All-Ireland Preliminary on Thursday next. Ulidia are a very strong team who lost in the cup semi-final in a high scoring and boast Irish internationals. The U-16 boys also have a home draw in their play-

offs on Sunday, 17th January. They play Kiltimagh at 11 am and Rathmore Grammar from Belfast at 2.30 pm. Castlerea are extremely fortunate to have a gym like the Hub to host these games. Otherwise they would have had to travel huge distances to venues at enormous cost. Castlerea Kings play the first of their four home

games in a row on Saturday, 9th January at the Hub at 8 pm. Their start to 2016 could not have been more difficult against league leaders, Longford Falcons. Primary School’s Basketball: Basketball starts back on Thursday 7th at the usual times. New members can register at 5.50 pm or 7.00 pm.

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

SportsPeople

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

Canaries devour prawn sandwiches < DAN DOONER

As part of my 30th birthday present back in August (hindsight and all that) I was presented with a VIP matchday experience ticket for Old Trafford. The brother and myself chose Norwich at home just before Christmas as the game

we would go and ‘enjoy’. You might think I regret the decision and would swear off going to another game ever again. You’d be wrong. Despite the humiliation, the side to side football and Phil Jones I was intoxicated and not just on the £6 a bottle Asian beer. It was a truly wonderful ex-

perience and something that unfortunately the League of Ireland cannot compete with. The standard of football and entertainment on show wasn’t the main attraction, obviously, rather it was the sheer historical significance of the place. Maybe VIP Matchday experi-

ence is not for me as I’d rather be amongst the vocal support (of which there was a lot) but it did enable me to meet United ‘legends’ Ben Thornley, Dion Dublin and Fred the Red. I can only assume the other United legends were too embarressed to be there.

Ballinasloe storm back into title race Only one game was played in the Roscommon and District League last weekend due to the post Christmas visit of Storm Frank. Ballinasloe Town beat Dysart 4 – 0 as ominous clouds gather over their nearest rivals. This result came on the heels of a hard fought victory over arch rivals Ballaghaderreen and means that they are now in joint second place with Ballagh’ and just two points behind leaders Moore United. The two sides were well matched

in the first half with defences by and large on top. Ballinasloe Town resumed brightly and broke the deadlock ten minutes into the second half. Darragh Concannon swung the ball to the far post with a well struck free kick and David Nee headed home from close range. Six minutes later Liam Lynch added a second after receiving a pass from Darragh Concannon. Jordan O’Leary added a third with sixty five played and Liam Lynch headed his second in the closing

January Transfer Window 5-aside We’ve put together a 5-aside team made up entirely of players involved in January transfers. Some signings were more effective than others, but this team would be hard to beat in next year’s Winter Astroturf League in Lisnamult. (Watch out Castle Street Tyres!)

Goalkeeper: Victor Valdes OK not the most inspiring goalkeeper Manchester United have ever signed but has enjoyed a quality, trophy laden career and can also do a job as sweeper-keeper.

Defender: Nemanja Vidic Does this require an explanation? One of the finest defenders to grace the Premier League, how Louis Van Gaal would love to find a gem like this for £7 million.

Midﬁeld: Clint Dempsey An absolute bargain when he arrived at Fulham for £2 million, five great seasons at the Cottage before trebling Fulham’s investment when he left for Spurs in 2012.

Attacking Midﬁeld: Riyad Mahrez Arrived at Leicester from Le Havre in 2014 and has been lighting up the Premier League this season. Could he be involved in a high profile move this January?

Striker: Luis Suarez Added much needed bite to the Liverpool attack in 2011, and if it wasn’t for Slippy G would probably have helped Liverpool to the league title. Currently plying his trade at a reasonable level somewhere in Spain.

minutes of the game. The result leaves Dysart in fourth place with just four points separating the top six teams. Ballinasloe, meanwhile, have used the festive period to send out a title warning to the rest of the Premier Division. The big game this weekend will be played at Falty Park Moore where Premier side Moore United play the Cork AUL side Pearse Celtic in the sixth round of the FAI Junior Cup. It will be one of the biggest games ever for Moore United as

the winners will go through to the last sixteen of this prestigious national competition. With over six hundred teams entering the competition it’s a great achievement for Moore United to advance to this stage of the competition. They had a 6–1 win in the previous round over the Mayo side Claremorris and while they are unlikely to beat the Cork side by a similar amount they have a great chance of progressing to the last sixteen.

The Theatre of Dreams still attracts fans from all over the world despite recent struggles.

Roscommon & District Football League Tables The Herald Premier Division Team Moore United Ballaghaderreen FC Ballinasloe Town Dysart FC Castlerea Celtic St. John’s Athletic Skyvalley Rovers Ballymoe FC Cloonfad United MD Town

Played 6 6 6 6 5 7 5 6 7 6

Won 4 4 4 3 3 3 2 2 2 0

Drew 2 0 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 0

Lost 0 2 2 1 1 3 3 4 5 6

Points 14 12 12 11 10 10 6 6 6 0

Team Played Won Shiven Rovers 9 8 Brazukas 7 5 Ballinasloe Town B* 7 4 Glen Celtic 7 3 Kilkerrin Utd 5 2 Ahascragh United 7 2 Rahara Rovers 7 1 Loughglynn United 4 1 Ballaghaderreen FC B 7 1 *Ballinasloe Town B deducted 1 Point

Drew 1 1 2 0 1 0 1 0 0

Lost 0 1 1 4 2 4 5 3 6

Points 25 16 13 9 7 6 4 3 3

Drew 2 1 5 1 0 1 1 0 3 2 0

Lost 2 2 1 2 4 3 2 5 5 7 4

Points 20 16 14 13 12 10 10 9 9 5 0

Norio’s Takeaway Division 1

Killeen Sports Grounds Division 2 Team Played Won MD Town B 10 6 Lough Harps 7 5 CP Ajax 9 3 Moylough 79 7 4 Roscommon United 8 4 KC Celtic 7 3 Skyvalley Rovers B* 8 5 Moore United B 8 3 Cloonfad United B 10 2 St. John’s Athletic B 10 1 Ros Youths 4 0 *Skyvalley Rovers B deducted 6 points

Before Neymar, Messi and Suarez there was Best, Law and Charlton.

Soccer Fixtures

Saturday 9th January n (7.45 pm) The Herald Premier Divisio , E. Deering, A. Deering hlin oug McL J. Castlerea Celtic v MD Town. letic FC. S. O Brien, M. Hatchett, G. Ballinasloe Town v St John’s AthKelly n 2 (7.30 pm) Killeen Sports Ground Divisio B. K. Reynolds ted Uni re Moo v B ted Uni Cloonfad FAI Junior Cup 6th Round O Reilly, D. Dully J. Mc Crossan, C. Moore United v Pearse Celtic. ) Sunday 10th January (2 pm n The Herald Premier Divisiooughlin, A. Deering ring, J. McL Dee E. FC. art Dys v ers Rov Nolan Skyvalley e FC. C. Fitzgibbon, G. Kelly, M. Ballaghaderreen FC v Ballymo Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 ins E. Coll Brazukas v Ahascragh United. n FC B. W. Stokes aderree Loughglynn United v BallaghTown B. M. Hatchett Glen Celtic v Ballinasloe ted. D. Jordan Rahara Rovers v Kilkerrin Uni n2 Killeen Sports Ground Divisio Kiernan Skyvalley Rovers v KC Celtic. D. G. Carmody ted. Lough Harps v Roscommon Uni an MD Town v CP Ajax. T. CormicN. Larkin . letic Ath s n’ Joh St. v 79 h Moyloug

Roscommon People Friday 08 January 2016

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Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Rossies up and running in 2016 A very happy sporting new year to one and all. 2016 got going last weekend with matches for the Roscommon U-21’s and seniors. It is clear that the Hastings Cup is not top of the priority list for Mark Dowd and the U-21 selectors this year. A lot of his main players are either injured or playing with their colleges and the team that lined out against Westmeath will bear no resemblance to the team that will line out against

Galway in the championship in March. However the Hastings Cup is a great competition to look at players on the fringe of the panel and it is a good way for players to make an impression and stake their claim on a starting spot for the championship later on. The second round game against Meath on Saturday should be another good workout for the U-21 team. The seniors got going in the first

game under new management with a very easy win against a weak Sligo IT side on Sunday. Once again it was noticeable that the players tried to move the ball at pace as quickly as possible from defence into attack. Roscommon kicked some nice scores especially in the first half and the experiment of playing Cathal Cregg at centre half back was an interesting one. I would certainly like to see Cathal there again.

It is a problem position for Roscommon. I know that you cannot look into any of these games in the FBD League with any degree of seriousness but it is a great competition for looking at players and different combinations and playing styles. I would be of the opinion that NUIG will pose a much greater threat this coming Sunday. They were level against Mayo in Castlebar with five minutes to go last

Roscommon loses a GAA great

Mesut Ozil and Arsenal are looking to finish the season as champions of a poor Premier League.

On Tuesday morning came the news that the legendary Gerry O’Malley had passed away. In Roscommon GAA Gerry O’Malley was one of our finest. While most people would remember him as a great footballer, he was a brilliant hurler too and indeed won an AllIreland title with Roscommon in 1965 when the home side beat Warwickshire in a memorable final which was played at St. Coman’s Park in Roscommon town. I don’t remember seeing Gerry play but he was a great friend of my own late father and I grew up on tales of

the exploits of Gerry O’Malley and his prowess not only as a great player but as a great man too. Anyone who saw him play says that he was a truly brilliant player in both codes and an inspirational leader too. He got to play in an All-Ireland senior football final in 1962 but alas Kerry proved too strong on the day. I met with Gerry many times over the years and he was a great friend of RTE radio commentator Brian Carthy who used to bring him to Dr. Hyde Park for big championship games and he was always very outspoken on how Roscommon and indeed St. Brigid’s

were doing. One day sticks out most in my memory of Gerry O’Malley. I met him under the Hogan Stand less than a half an hour after his beloved St. Brigid’s won the All-Ireland club title on St. Patrick’s Day 2013. He was so excited that day. He said to me that day “I never thought that I would see this day, I can die happy now” It meant that much to him. To his wife Mary and sons Conor and Niall and all his family and friends I want to extend my deepest sympathy on their loss. Ni bheidh a leitheid an aris. RIP.

Lack of Premier quality creates excitement It is probably the worst Premier League season that we have seen in many years quality wise but it is so unpredictable from week to week it is really exciting and it is almost impossible to forecast accurately any results from one week to the next. Arsenal were looking really good until they were hammered by Southampton. Manchester City have a great team but are so inconsistent. Spurs have a very good young side this year but they may just be a little short in quality players to win the title. Leicester are still up there but it would be the sports story of the century if they were to hang on and win the title. Manchester United are not good enough, simple as that and Chelsea are too far behind. I am still of the opinion that Arsenal will win it. They have a very good side but they will have to become more consistent. This weekend it’s the third round of the FA Cup. There was a time not so long ago that it was probably the biggest weekend of the whole season but the FA Cup is not the competition it used to be and there are far fewer shocks now as the strong clubs get stronger and the teams further down the line get weaker.

Sunday so they have a good side and hopefully Ballyforan will be able to stage the game after all the rain we have had. It was amazing that almost all the inter-county games around the country went ahead last Sunday. It was also interesting to note the big scores that some counties put up last weekend in games that only last 60 minutes. Does it auger well for the future? It’s a bit early to say just yet.

From the Internet Northern Ireland would be “duty bound” to stop using ‘God Save the Queen’ as the team’s anthem should England do so, according to the president of the Irish Football Association (IFA). Jim Shaw, who has been head of the IFA since his election in 2010, has admitted that the debate over the national anthem has been “one of the most divisive” in the association’s history, but conceded that it would be “very difficult” to continue using it if their English counterparts switched to a new anthem. The IFA chief acknowledged that “there will be plenty of angry supporters” if the anthem is changed, but insisted that it is not up to his association to decide what song is used. “The national anthem debate is one of the most divisive in our history. We’ve been debating it for years. If we keep it, we annoy people and we know if it goes, there will be plenty of angry supporters. But it’s not for the Irish FA to decide what the national anthem of Northern Ireland is. That is for the devolved government at Stormont. “The Scots and Welsh governments decided to change when they came into power. We didn’t. I think it would be very difficult for us to continue using ‘God Save the Queen’ if the English decide they want a new anthem. I think we would be duty bound to follow suit.” (Courtesy of The 42.ie)

Gary Patterson misses out on gathering possession during Roscommon’s FBD League win over Sligo IT. Picture: Andrew Fox

Connacht a bright spot as Irish rugby falters The situation with regard to rugby in the provinces here in Ireland has come into focus over the past few weeks, Munster’s alarming losing run ended last weekend but they seem to be in freefall. Gone are the glory days when they were the most feared team in Europe. Leinster are not as bad but they have fallen considerably, and now are not

considered one of the big European teams. Ulster are going well but they are at a level just below the very top and it looks like that’s the way it will stay for them. Connacht are a phenomenon. They were almost put out of business a few years ago and now they are arguably playing as well as any of the four other provinces. The next focus now will be on the

Six Nations championship and it will be very interesting to see if Ireland can repeat their heroics of the past two years. It will be a very tall order for Joe Schmidt to win the championship for a third year on the trot. The World Cup exit will have taken a lot out of the players and it remains to be seen if they can raise their performances once again.

The Northern Ireland fans may be looking for a new anthem to sing in France next summer.

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Rossies open the ﬂoodgates at Enﬁeld FBD Connacht Senior Football League Round 1 ROSCOMMON

1-20

SLIGO IT

0-10

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon eased to a very comfortable victory against a poor Sligo IT outfit in this one sided FBD League tie, which began the Kevin McStay/ Fergal O’Donnell era at Enfield last Sunday. The Sligo side featured two Roscommon players Kieran Donoghue from Tulsk and the team captain Cathal Kenny from Oran but Roscommon proved far too strong for the students and it was one-way traffic for most of the game. No one will be reading too much into this victory, however, there were a number of notable features of the Roscommon display. One was the speed with which Roscommon attempted to move the ball from defence to attack which we also saw in the recent challenge game against Laois.

The experiment of playing Cathal Cregg at centre half-back was interesting and he played very well and I would like to see him tried there again. Cathal Shine was tried at full-forward and while he did well there midfield is his best position. Conor Devaney, Cian Connolly and Kieran Kilcline were also very impressive in the first half in attack. Roscommon were on top in all sectors except for midfield where Declan McCormack and Ray Connolly did well for Sligo IT and Niall Walsh did well at full-forward too. However, Roscommon dominated from the opening exchanges and it was very one sided at times. The sides shared four points in the first 11 minutes of play and when Cathal McGettigan pointed in the 11th minute it was to be

Sligo IT’s last score for 18 minutes as Roscommon cut loose. Points from Ciaran Murtagh (4, 3 from play), Cathal Shine (2), Conor Daly, Brian Murtagh and Cian Connolly opened up a huge gap between the teams. The only goal of the game came in the 17th minute when Cian Connolly intercepted the ball from Sligo ‘keeper Brian McGovern and he released Kieran Kilcline who fisted to the empty net. At halftime Roscommon led by 1-12 to 0-3. The second half saw a slight improvement from Sligo IT who had more of the ball, but Roscommon could always get a couple of scores to keep well ahead and as the game went on the management emptied their bench as the quest for the right starting 15 for the National League continues. Note: Congratulations to the St. Croan’s club for hosting the match at short notice when Strokestown was deemed unplayable. The St. Croan’s pitch was

in perfect condition and their facilities are a credit to them and thanks to the club for their hospitality on the day. Roscommon: Darren O’Malley; Ronan Stack, Seanie McDermott, Brian Murtagh; Conor Daly (01), Cathal Cregg, Ronan Daly (0-1); Niall Daly, Ian Kilbride (0-1); Conor Devaney (0-3), Kieran Kilcline (1-0), Scott Oates; Cian Connolly (0-4, 1 free), Cathal Shine (0-3), Ciaran Murtagh (0-5, 3 frees). Subs: Gary Patterson for Brian Murtagh (43), Fintan Kelly for Kilbride (43), Finbarr Cregg for Oates (53). Sligo IT: Brian McGovern; Dara McConnon, Ross Gallagher, Johnny Birmingham; Cathal Surlis, Eamon McGrath, Kieran Donoghue; Declan McCormack, Ray Connolly (0-1); Cian Clinton (0-1), Cathal McGettigan (0-2), Cathal Kenny (01, free); Kevin Smullen, Niall Walsh (0-1), Adam Traynor (0-3, all frees). Subs: David O’Reilly for

Scottie Oates retains possession despite coming under intense pressure. Picture: Andrew Fox

McGrath (Black Card, 23), Lee Carr for Birmingham (h-t), Keith Tighe (0-1) for Smullen (50), Martin Rock for McGettigan (54). Referee: Martin Flaherty (Galway)

MATCH COVERAGE Tweet of the Week “It’s not only the Roscommon players who hunt in packs, the supporters do it too.” Kevin Egan in Ballintubber on Sunday.

Talking Point Cathal Cregg at centre half-back. It looks promising, and a few impressive runs up the field in the second half too as confidence rose. Maybe a new position for the Western Gaels man?

This Time Last Year Roscommon defeated Sligo IT in Strokestown in a low key match on their way to an FBD League title. Tulsk man Michael Dufficy was back from Australia and featured in Roscommon’s win under manager John Evans.

What’s Next Roscommon take on NUIG in Ballyforan on Sunday at 2 pm. The students gave Mayo plenty to think about in Castlebar last Sunday before going down narrowly on a 1-12 to 1-10 score line.

Media View “Roscommon’s first competitive game under their new management team led by Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell saw the home side build up a 12 point lead by half-time. Conor Devaney impressed in the half-forward line with Cathal Cregg operating effectively at centre half back.” (Irish Independent)

Expert View

Brian Murtagh battles for possession. Picture: Andrew Fox

“It was good to make a winning start to the year but Sligo IT were very poor and you could not really judge anything on what we saw in that game. NUIG will be a stronger side next Sunday. We had to start somewhere and it was good to win our first competitive game under the new management.” (Mike Smith- Boyle)

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Supersub Regan Strokes late winner Dermot Hughes Cars U-20 Championship Final STROKESTOWN

2-5

PADRAIG PEARSES

0-9

Strokestown came with a late surge to deny Padraig Pearses in this inaugural U-20 final played

at Pairc an Piarsigh. The home side had dominated a one-sided first half but goals win games, and a

three-pointer in each half proved crucial as Strokestown edged home by a two point margin. Pearses dominated the first half and they kicked several good points from play and frees with Hubert Darcy, Ronan Daly and Daniel Glynn prominent. But at half-time Strokes-

town only trailed by three points (0-7 to 1-1) their crucial goal coming from the fist of James Tully. Once Strokestown got going in the second half it was a much closer affair Davy Neary and Kealan Beirne points brought Strokestown closer and the crucial goal came

(0-2), M Kevanagh; D Neary (0-1), J Tully (1-0), K Murphy. Subs: B Neary for O’Beirne, R Regan (10) for Tully, C Compton for L Kelly, C Corcoran for Kavanagh, A Convey for C Kelly. Padraig Pearses: A McManus; T Richardson, M Richardson, G Downey;

D Reilly, R Daly (0-2), A Finnerty; T Butler, D Glynn (0-1); C Payne, G Kelly (0-1), L Fehily; L Daly, H Darcy (0-4), K Fehily (0-1). Subs: D Kelly for L Daly, E Galvin for D Kelly, J Curley for Fehily, P Whelan for Reilly. Referee: C McDermott.

Rossies undone by Westmeath surge

Dolan and Lohan take the reins at Brigid’s Frankie Dolan and Eddie Lohan have been appointed as the new St. Brigids’ joint senior team managers, Both men have extensive experience with St. Brigid’s and Kilbride respectively and with Roscommon as county senior players too and they will replace Paddy Carr who stepped down after St. Brigid’s were defeated in the county SFC semifinal by Clann na nGael in September. Their task will be to regain the Fahey Cup in 2016 after a period of unprecedented success for the club in recent years.

from sub Robert Regan with five minutes to play which put Strokestown ahead for the first time and they never looked back after that. Strokestown: M Beirne; C Kelly, B Foy, D Owens; E Kelly, K Sheil, L Kelly; K Beirne (0-2), J Owens; E O’Beirne, D McGann

Hastings Cup First Round

Don’t look now, but the Rossies are on their way: The scoreboard doesn’t lie as Roscommon blew Sligo IT away at Enfield last weekend.

WESTMEATH

0-14

ROSCOMMON

0-10

A late burst of scoring saw Westmeath overcome Roscommon in this first round Hastings Cup game played at St. Loman’s in Mullingar on Saturday last. The defending champions were short a number of players and Westmeath just about deserved to win. Roscommon had points in the first half from Henry Walsh (4, two frees), Brian Kelly, and David Carleton and Roscommon led by 06 to 0-3 by the 25th minute and a late point for West-

meath saw two between the sides at half-time. Tom Butler and Henry Walsh points extended Roscommon’s lead again but the introduction of sub Michael Monaghan brought about a change in fortunes for the home side. He kicked five points (three frees) to bring the home side back into the match and by the 51st minute they were ahead. Henry Walsh pointed a free to level the scores at 09 each but three points in a

row saw Westmeath make a decisive break in the final stages of the game. Best for Roscommon were Henry Walsh, David Neary, Brian Kelly and David Carleton. This week Roscommon face Meath in Johnstown on Saturday in Round Two. Throw in at 2 pm. Roscommon: N Kelly; J Casey, M Daly, A Lyons; K Farrell, E McGrath, R Daly; T Butler (0-1), T O’Rourke; A Kielty, D Carleton (0-1), B Kelly (01); D Neary, H Darcy, H Walsh (0-7). Subs: S Farrell for Kielty, D McGann for Carleton, J McDonnell for Darcy, N Connaughton for Kelly.

Management duo runs the rule on Roscommon panel League Round 2 Roscommon v NUIG On Sunday at Ballyforan at 2 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon are sure to be in experimental mode when they face NUIG at Ballyforan on Sunday as Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell and his selectors search for a winning combination ahead of a season in Division One of the National Football League. Last week against admittedly very weak opposition Cathal Cregg was played at centre halfback and it will be interesting to see if they continue with that experiment. It worked well last Sunday. Short several players through injury, and with several more playing with the college teams there is a limit on the number of things that can be tried but players like Scottie Oates, Kieran Kilcline, Cian Connolly, Cathal McHugh and Gary Patterson are getting their chance to impress. NUIG should prove a far

sterner test for Roscommon. They played a largely experimental Mayo side in Castlebar last Sunday and went down by only two points (1-12 to 1-10). They have John McManus and Davy Murray in their ranks and hopefully they will provide Roscommon with more of a test than they faced last Sunday from Sligo IT. With the start of the National League campaign just three weeks away Roscommon will be hoping to further develop their style of play which has seen the ball being moved quickly from defence to attack and supporters will be very interested to see what combination of players are used this weekend. It should be an interesting tussle and the result will be largely unimportant. It’s the performance that matters at this early stage of the season. But Roscommon should be good enough. Prediction: Roscommon.

Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell will be looking for stand out performances as preparations for a tough league campaign continue this weekend against NUIG in Ballyforan. Picture: Andrew Fox

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FINN

Electrical Goff Street, Roscommon Town Roscommon.

JANUA RY

Telephone

(090) 66 25573

Rossies prepare for big year O’Donnell: “It wasn’t outstanding, but for the 3rd of January we’re happy enough.” ROSCOMMON SLIGO IT After their convincing FBD League win over Sligo IT, Roscommon joint team manager Fergal O’Donnell said that he was pleased with how his charges did over the hour. “We are happy to get up and running for the year and it was nice to give a few lads a first start. We put up a good score but the second half was not that impressive to be honest. The lads played well overall and it was good to see Cathal Shine back and playing at full forward. We don’t have a lot of height in

1-20 0-10 the team and we are conscious of that. We have a few contenders for the full back position but they are all playing with their colleges but generally it was a good work out today.” “The pitch today here was great considering all the rain we have had and it was a great run out for us and we worked hard. It wasn’t outstanding but for the 3rd of January we are happy enough. We will be looking at more players next weekend against NUIG and we are looking forward to that now” he concluded.

The time is now: Fergal O’Donnell, pictured here at the recent challenge match against Laois, is happy with the Roscommon senior footballers’ progress so far.