2016 03 04 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

• RESULTS • REACTION • ANALYSIS • COMMENT

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

GE 16

04 March 2016

SUPPLEMENT INSIDE

The Local Paper

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

MARCH SPECIALS

Half Price

Porcelain Kitchen Floor Tiles

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

VOLUME: 466

And the results are ...

E: lukeming.flanagan@europarl.europa.eu www.twitter.com/lukeming www.facebook.com/lukemingflanagan

Finn Electrical Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573 WHIRLPOOL WASHING MACHINE

€399 • 6 Year Parts • Labour Warranty

Don’t get caught in the rain again this Summer! Book early to secure a place in the Sun AVAIL OF EARLY OFFERS

Signature Prop.: Anne Harlow

Flowers

St. Alban’s Place, Roscommon. Tel. (090) 66 25328. Mother’s Day

Flowers and Plants from

€7.50Open Sunday 6th March

Tommie KElly Electrical Athleague, Roscommon 090 6663385 ROSCOMMON TOWN 090 6634465

FREE+ SKY BOX* *NEW SKY CUSTOMERS ONLY Sky Packages HALF PRICE for 3 months

FRANCES’ FINISHING TOUCHES The Square, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626270

Give the gift of love this Mother’s Day with a Gift Voucher from Frances’ Finishing Touches

UPWARDS

Ella Naughten, (daughter of Deputy Denis and Mary Naughten), got her hands on the RTE mike last Saturday at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox.

ROSCOMMON Home Heating Oil (on pump) is

DELIVERING KEROSENE & HEATING OIL TO YOUR HOME

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

McGUINNESS PHARMACY Main Street, Roscommon T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 66 28789 Revive Active 7’s

20% OFF (**Triple Loyalty Points**)

49.9 c p/ltr. Green Diesel

55.9 c p/ltr.

Michael Fitzmaurice TD, joins with his wife Maria and family in thanking all his supporters and campaigners and all of the Voters of Roscommon Galway for placing their trust in me and I look forward to being a voice for all of you in the years ahead.

– Thank you.

Your local Interflora agent

QUIT SMOKING IN 2016

CASEY’S

Constituency Office: Priory House, Barrack Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Office hours: 9.30am-4.30pm

Standing up for the small farmer on CAP

www@ewtvl.com Opening Hours: Monday - Friday, 09.30 am -17.30 pm

Murphy, Fitzmaurice and my DADDY!

Luke ‘Ming’ FLANAGAN MEP

TEL. 094-9622710 / 094 9622244 MOBILE: 086 3685680

Stone Court, Roscommon Tel. 090 6626833 Fax 090 6626920

LANESBORO RD., ROSCOMMON

Roscommon Gymnastics Club Registration Day Saturday 12th March at 3pm Contact us for more details Call 090 66 34372 or 086 3861853

One Session Smoking Cessation Therapy €90 CALL BILLY 094 965 9966 086 067 5433

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

FIREPLACES & STOVES

Non Boiler stoves from €299 Boiler Stoves from €750

Full supply & fit service available 30 years experie nce in the busine ss

www.motivatehypnosis.com

MOTHER’S DAY SPECIALS

Flooring/ Furniture

SALE NOW ON ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON

Michael Fitzmaurice

TEL: (090) 66 65998

090 66 28479

WEB: www.gfurniture.ie

Massive Discounts on Selected Fragrances & Gift Sets See in-store for details GIFT BASKETS MADE-TO-ORDER

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

(086) 2714879

Four assaults on staff at psychiatric unit last year < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

ABBEY HOTEL

ROSCOMMON Now taking bookings for Communions, Confirmations and all special occasions

• Early booking advised •

TELEPHONE: 090 66 26240

Abbey Hotel - RAI Best Hotel Restaurant in County Roscommon 2014 & 2015

LEARN TO UNDERSTAND AND ACCEPT YOURSELF Overcome Anxiety, Fears & Phobias, Stress, Trauma and Low Energy

There were four assaults on staff in the psychiatric unit at Roscommon Hospital last year, details released by the Health Service Executive, under the Freedom of Information Act, have revealed. None of the assaults were reported to the Gardaí, but each of them was reviewed by the HSE’s serious incident management team. Meanwhile, it is expected that the review of mental health services in Co. Roscommon will be completed next month. Last August the HSE appointed an external team to conduct it, prompted partly by allegations of ‘sexual contact’ at a care centre in Castlerea. Staffing levels and staff management and

supervisions are also part of the review’s terms of reference. It was due to be completed within three months, but it was delayed because of the volume of staff who were interviewed. However, Breege Callaghan, the western regional representative of the Psychiatric Nurses’ Association, said that it was nearing completion. “The review is expected to be finished in April,” she said. “The review team are meeting with members of the public and families of service users at the moment. “We will be looking to make sure that the review is published and that the recommendations will be implemented. “It will be very important that it is not shelved again.”

Henry Schwab

SOLUTION FOCUSED THERAPY EFT Master Practitioner (AMT), Adv, Practitioner of Meridian Therapies (incl. TAT and Matrix Reimprinting), Master in Reiki & Seichem(Tera Mai), clin. Hypnotherapy & Psychotherapy (Dip. Hyp./Psych., ADHP)

Call: Henry Schwab on 071 96 62114 www.henryschwabhealing.com • schwabhenry@gmail.com CALM, RELAXED AND IN PEACE WITH YOURSELF

newsbriefs Get moving in Kilmovee this Easter Walkers, joggers and runners are invited to take part in the 7th Annual Kilmovee 10km road race on Saturday, 26th March (Easter weekend) in aid of Mayo/Roscommon Hospice and Kilmovee Shamrocks GAA club. There will be a free t-shirt for first 500 entries. The race starts at 1 pm from the clubhouse in Kilmovee. Registration is from 10 am. There will be a prize giving ceremony and refreshments served in the community centre after the race. Please support and take a sponsorship card to help support local hospice/palliative care services and local GAA. Students and teachers are welcome to participate in the Michael McDonnell Shield event (a race within the main event) and win the shield for their school. Check out Kilmovee 10k website for more information. Sponsorship cards available for all. Contact 094 9388303 for more details.

Historical Society meeting A meeting of the Co. Roscommon Historical and Archaeological Society will take place on Tuesday, March 8th at 8.30 pm in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown. A talk on the earthwork known as the Black Pigs Dyke will be given by Coilin O’Driscoll of Kilkenny Archaeology. The Dyke near Jamestown consists of a spur of the earthwork formed by a tight meander of the River Shannon and is cut off by massive ramparts. Investigations interpret the construction as beginning in the Iron Age. All are welcome.

Have you household items for Hospice? If you are moving house or redecorating, the Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice will gladly take unwanted items for their household shop in Castlebar, including: tables, chairs, sofas and other suitable items. Collection can be arranged by contacting Martin on 0897017222 or 094 9388666.

Sonia Duggan and Bernie Keane pictured at the Hyde Centre. Picture: Andrew Fox

Tree art in Ballaghaderreen Community Art Group Ballaghaderreen is showing their vision on trees in the local library on the Square. The exhibition is inspired by National Tree Week, organised by the Tree Council of Ireland from the 6th-13th March. There will be paintings, drawings, photos and ceramics. The exhibition starts on Tuesday, 8th March at 2 pm and will end on the 26th of March. The art will be for sale at affordable prices. All are welcome to come and have a look. ‘Tree’, a painting on canvas by Community Art Group Ballaghaderreen member, Freda Hatch.

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

FARMERS, WILLS AND TAX MATTERS I own a large farm and I want to make a will leaving my farm to my only child. I will also leave her all of my savings. Following a lifetime of hard work, and some good fortune, I have accumulated savings with my local bank totalling almost €400,000. I expect my farm is worth around €600,000 and my daughter will qualify for Agricultural Relief on this inheritance. I understand that a child may inherit up to €280,000 tax free from a parent. I would be horrified to discover that my daughter will have to hand over a large portion of my savings to Revenue in taxes. Is there any way of avoiding this tax? You correctly note that a child may inherit up to €280,000 from their parents without being liable for tax. Any inheritance valued in excess of this amount will be taxed at a rate of 33%. If your daughter qualifies for Agricultural Relief then the value of the agricultural property you are passing to her in your Will will be reduced by 90%. Example: You estimate the farm to be worth €600,000. If your daughter qualifies for Agricultural Relief the farm will be valued at just €60,000 for tax purposes. In order to qualify for this 90% Agricultural Relief she must pass two tests: 1. 80% of her assets must be agricultural assets at the date of the transfer. 2. She must farm the land for the next six years and either hold an agricultural qualification or spend at least 20 hours a week farming the land. To answer your main question, I note that you expect your daughter to inherit a cash sum in the region of €400,000 from you. Your daughter may also qualify for agricultural relief on this proposed cash inheritance should your will be drafted in a particular manner. My advice would be to include a clause within your will providing for the bequest of this sum of money to your daughter on the condition that the whole or part thereof be invested in agricultural property with two years of the date of issue of the grant of representation in your estate. Should your daughter invest this cash bequest in agricultural property in compliance with this condition then the cash bequest will qualify for Agricultural Relief and will be written down accordingly for tax purposes. The valuation date for tax purposes will be the date of investment in agricultural property. As this is a conditional bequest, i.e. the money is bequeathed to your daughter on the condition she invests it in agricultural property, the bequest will fail if your daughter fails to so invest the funds. In light of this, it is imperative that your will provides for an alternative clause to protect this bequest to your daughter. • Wills Promotion: For the month of March we are offering farmers a special rate of just €50 to make your will. Contact Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor today on 090 6478433 for expert advice. 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 04 March 2016

NewsPeople

Doherty hits out at suspension of Keadue centre Vulnerable and elderly people in north Roscommon are furious at the suspension of services at a day care centre at Keadue, Fianna Fáil councillor Rachel Doherty has said. It has emerged that, from March 31, St. Asicus Centre is in danger of closure because of its funding being pulled. The centre is funded by the Department of Social Protection and managed by Pobal. Cllr. Doherty said that the centre was invaluable to people, many of whom were transported there by a special bus service. “Around, 200 dinners go out there a week to local people in the community and 20 people go in there to have their dinner every day,” she said. “They are collected at 9.30 in the morning and they are there until 4.30 in the afternoon. They have tea and scones and play bingo in the afternoon, as any community centre does.” Cllr. Doherty said that the the centre was informed that its funding would be withdrawn

Cllr. Rachel Doherty

from the end of this month. They appealed the decision, but it was unsuccessful, she said. People at the Cootehall, Knockvicar and Ballyfarnon areas were furious with the decision, she said. “They are absolutely upset. It is disappointed for all of the people who use the service,” Cllr. Doherty said. “They can’t understand why funding has been pulled. The cut of funding is totally unjustified.” In a statement, Pobal said that the Community Services Programme (CSP) gives grants to community businesses that

deliver services and create employment for people from disadvantaged groups. A spokesman said that Pobal did not routinely comment on the specifics of individual situation. However, he added: “In any cases where it becomes apparent that service providers are not complying with the agreed criteria of the programme, Pobal engages and works with that service to offer them advice and guidance on what needs to be done to correct any irregularities. “In rare circumstances, where repeated engagement fails to rectify the situation, Pobal is obliged to recommend to the Department of Social Protection that funding be withdrawn. “Pobal regrets any instances where this has occurred.” The spokesman said that the Department were in discussions with the Local Development Company with a view to examining service provision in the area.

Your Office & Technology Supplier HP301 Black

€14.50

HP301 Colour

Purchase any two or more Ink Cartridges In-Store and get an

€18.00

A4 80gsm paper for just €3.00 per ream PRICES INCLUDE VAT. TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. OFFER ENDS 31st MARCH

Elphin Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon www.netswhich.com

sales@netswhich.com

071 - 9634425

Advertorial

& The Lilac Rooms Golf Links Road, Roscommon.Tel.: 090 66 27007 Fax.: 090 66 27027

Brigid,

Skincare Consultant will be attending the store

on Friday 11th of March from 11am – 1pm CONDITION

SOLUTION

CONDITION

BARIÉDERM Tech

SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS

BARIÉDERM Crème

DUE TO: FREQUENT WASHING, DETERGENTS, METAL ALLERGIES, CLIMATE AGGRESSIONS, CHLORINE, SOLVENTS, PAINTS, OILS, GLUE

SOLUTION

FLAKY, ITCHY SCALP

CONTACT DERMATITIS

D.S EMULSION ANTI - IRRITATIONS, DRY PATCHES, PERLECHE

DEEP AND LOCALISED

LARGER AREAS

IRRITATED SKIN

DAMAGED SKIN

BARIÉDERM

CU -ZN+ Crème DAMP, IRRITATED AREAS, SKIN FOLDS, MACERATED AREAS, CHAFFING, BED SORES

DRY, DAMAGED, CHAPPED LIPS

CU -ZN+ SPRAY VERY DRY SKIN

BARIÉDERM Lips

DRY SKIN

XEMOSE Crème Emollient SEVERE DRY SKIN

CICATIVE P.I. Crème POST INTERVENTION, POST SURGERY

XEMOSE Cerat

PRURITIC DERMATITUS

PSORIASIS

ATOPIC DERMATITIS, CONTACT ECZEMA

KERATOSANE 30 GEL

PRURICED Gel

ALL SKIN CONDITIONS

ITCHING

SEVERE HYPERKERATOSIS

PRURICED Crème

Expert advice will be available on all Skin Conditions from Eczema, Psoriasis, Dry Skin, Dermatitis to Acne Skin Please call to make an appointment

IRRITATED SKIN

INSECT BITES, VARICELLA, SOLAR ERYTHEMA, ITCHING

Uriage skincare consultant, Brigid, will be at Rosmed Pharmacy Friday 11th of March, from 11 am to 1 pm.

Keratosane Keratosane 30 is for severe localized hyperkeratosis, calluses on the heels, hyperkertoses on the palms and soles of the feet, localized thickening of the skin, elbows, knees and scalp. It is a high performing product and contains 30% Urea, the optimal concentration. Eucerin’s Urea content is up to 10%. A non-greasy rich gel cream, which is fragrance free and hydrosoluble with excellent absorption. Can be applied morning and evenings.

D.S LOTION Spray DERMATITIS

FISSURES AND CRACKS

Uriage – feel the difference when it comes to skincare

THERMAL WATER SOOTHING

FILMOGENIC ANTI-FREE RADICAL

HEALING REINFORCE S THE CUTAN ISOTON EOUS

BARRIER

THERMAL WATER SPRAY

Now stocking NYX Make-up

Bariederm A barrier cream must: • Efficiently protect and remain non-greasy • Be invisible • Preserve dexterity • Present sufficient substance for satisfactory persistence. • Texture should enable easy spreading over the skin surface. All of these specific features were researched with special knowledge to optimally combine the different active ingredients. The originality of Bariéderm Crème is based on an innovation, an association of non-occlusive polymers, Poly2p and on the galenic expertise of Laboratoires Dermatologiques d’Uriage. Presently there is no competition to this line of products in Ireland. Poly-2p It is a patented innovation combining 2 active ingredients: phosphorylcholine and pyrrolidone polymers with insulating and repairing actions on the stratum corneum, cement and skin surface.

Bariederm Crème. Hands, face and body. A barrier and reconstructive cream for irritations, frictions and chemical agents and detergents. Suitable for adults and children. Bariederm Levres. Lip balm that insulates, repairs and soothes and treats cheilitis. Suitable for adults and children Bariederm Fissures and Cracks Feet, hands, knees, nose and nipples, to be used in hospitals in Ireland for patients having treatment for cancer where the side effects of the drugs cause very bad fissures and cracks but also used every day for heels, hands, knees, nose and nipples during breastfeeding. URIAGE THERMAL WATER The main active ingredient in Uriage is Uriage Thermale Water and the majority of the products have a minimum of 30% UTW. Uriage is a town in France close to Grenoble. UTW has 7 properties compared to other thermal waters in the Irish market which only have one. • Isotonic, hydrating & soothing, anti-free radical • Anti-inflammatory • Healing • Filmogenic • Reinforces the cutaneous barrier

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough & Galway

A column by Roscommon People editor

Tel: 090 647 8433 * MOTOR ACCIDENTS

ur ee oour SSee Column lumn oinn coBusiness e2 pag

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

The weather usually picks up when we get a new government, but last night the bins were rattling and the dog was prowling around nervously, as if there was an errant canvasser outside. I have reflected on this, and worked it out. I wouldn’t panic yet. I think the winds are only still raging because we have a caretaker government. Once we actually elect a new government, the weather will improve.

Paul Healy on Eugene Murphy’s sweetest day; Frank Kelly’s legacy; Roscommon’s amazing win; the weather and the caretaker Government… and Donald Trump’s relentless rise…

Saturday 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

Curraghboy National School are holding their

Enrolment Night on Tuesday 15th March from 6.30 – 7.30 pm CONTACT 090 64 88293 IF YOU REQUIRE FURTHER INFORMATION EVERYONE WELCOME

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

I first saw Eugene Murphy in full flow after Mass, opposite the Church in Strokestown, in the late 1980s. He was an impressive orator, commanding attention as he praised Brian Mullooly, his voice rising at just the right moment in each new segment of the speech, his audience suitably captivated. Over a quarter of a century on, and after many highs and lows in a rollercoaster political career, Eugene Murphy is standing in the Hyde Centre, moments before being formally declared a newly-elected TD. There are tears in his eyes as he embraces his loved ones. The confirmation comes – and his emotional supporters lift him into the air. It’s one of the great political stories of the past thirty years or so, right up there with Tom Foxe and ‘Ming.’ Eugene Murphy simply refused to give up. He has earned what he aptly called his “sweetest day.”

Saturday The actor, Frank Kelly, who has died, was a regular radio and television presence for many decades. In latter years he won millions of fans for his portrayal of ‘Fr. Jack’ in the hit comedy, ‘Fr. Ted.’ I was never that keen on Fr. Jack. To me, it was the same joke over and over again. It must have been a nightmare to play too…having to spend all that time in make-up before acting out a role that involved limited physical and verbal range. Having said that, Kelly played the part terrifically, and of course it brought him a whole new international audience – and hopefully some prosperity too. For many of us however, Frank Kelly will be remembered more fondly for his role in Hall’s Pictorial Weekly, his radio character Gobnait O’Lúnasa and his timeless comedy song, ‘Twelve Days of Christmas.’ I agree with a son of the late Dermot Morgan (who played Fr. Ted) who said this week that it would be a pity if Frank Kelly is primarily remembered for playing Fr. Jack “as it was the most one-dimensional character he ever played.” That kind of captures what made him special – the fact that Fr. Jack, while played very well,

Wednesday Paul Healy and Seamus Duke pictured at the Hyde Centre last Saturday. Picture: Andrew Fox.

was actually a long way from being his most distinguished work. Frank Kelly will be fondly remembered for the work that preceded the ‘Drink! Feck! Girls!’ era, a body of versatile work which marked him out as an Irish comedy great.

Sunday Punch-drunk from the election count, I ‘detoxed’ by catching up on coverage of the ‘national picture’ on television on Sunday afternoon. Then I remembered – Cork v Roscommon. I checked in with Willie on Shannonside and could not believe my ears. Roscommon’s sensational win, by eighteen points, reminded me of a very wet day in Kiltoom back in the late 1980s when Roscommon hammered a starstudded Meath team by a similar margin. Thinking of that rout of the Royals then reminded me of a National Football League game between Roscommon and Dublin, in 1989 or ’90, which was played in Portlaoise (it was a quarter-final). It was a classic,

Roscommon winning in extratime, with Tony McManus scoring 2-5 ‘off’ Noel McCaffrey. One of his opponents once said that, such was George Best’s wizardry, he had given the opponent in question “twisted blood.” I think McCaffrey must have felt he had twisted blood that day in Portlaoise, because McManus ran him ragged. (My other vivid memory of that game is of ‘Red’ Owen McManus coming on as an ‘impact sub’ and immediately making his very physical presence felt!). Well, back to last Sunday, and the demolition of Cork must rank amongst Roscommon’s best-ever league performances. We are doing brilliantly in Division One. Exciting times!

Tuesday You will remember when Fine Gael and Labour swept into power in 2011, there was an immediate improvement in the weather. With that in mind, I was initially surprised when the nowfamiliar storms raged again last night. ‘Storm Healy-Rae’ I think it was this time.

When we were on holidays in America last October, I was struck by how deeply worried people were about the Donald Trump presidential bid. We thought it was a joke, a silly season story that was just overstaying its welcome. But Middle America was very, very worried. They saw him as a racist, dangerous buffoon. We said ‘don’t worry, nothing will come of it’ – but little did we know. Four months on, and, to the incredulity of millions of people all over the world, the Donald Trump freak show is threatening to turn from a nightmare that must end at some point – into a possible reality. Obviously this man has legions of fans and, to put it mildly, he’s a huge personality and a billionaire who must have some considerable leadership qualities. However, I am a long time observing American Presidential elections and I have never seen a candidate remotely like this loosest of loose canons. Unless this man is putting on an act – to win the support of extremists and the disenchanted – and would be prepared to rein himself in if elected, his emergence is indeed a deeply worrying development. Over to you, Hillary!

Eala Níc Chumhaill and Rachel Dolan (joint captains) prepare for the All-Ireland. Best of luck to all involved. See page 72. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Libraries Support Business

oscommon County Council: Library Services is participating in a new national project offering Business, Enterprise and Employment support services to the public at Roscommon County Library as an initial pilot. The project service will be launched as part of the programme of events for Local Enterprise Week 2016 7th – 13th March at the County Library, Abbey Street, Roscommon on Thursday 10th March at 3.30pm.

Libraries Online Resources ... Read, Listen, Learn, Anywhere, Anytime! R

oscommon County Council Library Services are now extending the range of new additional online resources for users. These service provisions are part of the further developments to avail of the opportunities offered by digital resources and media in extending the reach, relevance and accessibility of library services for users

and eAudio books. All you need to access the service through the website is your library borrower card number and your PIN is your surname. Apple users can download the BorrowBox Library app from the iTunes App Store while Android users will find the app in the Google Play Store.

e now offer access to our library collection of digital magazines through the Zinio online service. Titles include Cosmopolitan, Hello, Total Film, Auto Express, National Geographic etc ... A 24/7 web based service with free unlimited access for Library members. All you need is your library card number.

orrowBox is home to our new eBooks and eAudio books. It offers a large collection of international authors of the world’s best eBooks

oscommon registered library users now have free access to Proquest. Proquest is a fully searchable Newspaper and Journal article database. It covers over 1,000 publications including 941 newspapers worldwide. Some titles of interest include the Irish Independent, Irish Examiner, New Statesman, The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, The Scotsman and The Sydney Morning Herald. And of more local interest are the Roscommon Herald and the Sligo Champion. Searches can be restricted to the latest edition of a publication and a listing of all articles in the latest edition can be viewed. A search can also be by subject across all the titles in the database.

Membership is now FREE at Roscommon County Library Services.

niversal Class offers Roscommon County Library users a unique online education experience. With a growing catalogue of over 400 courses, Universal Class is committed to providing only the most affordable and highest quality online training. Universal Class offers courses in Exercise and Fitness, Entrepreneurship, Arts and Music, Home and Garden Care, Cooking, Computers and Technology, Health and Medicine, Homeschooling, Job Assistance, Law and Legal, Parenting and Family, Pet and Animal Care…plus 100’s more.

ango languages’ conversation and film-based digital resources help you learn over 70 languages (including English and Irish) from just about anywhere.

And the best part? It’s all free at your local library through the website www. roscommoncoco. ie/en/services/library

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016 A key priority of Roscommon County Council is to provide a business-friendly climate in the county, one that encourages and embraces start-ups, as well as growing and supporting businesses. One of my main priorities is to enhance the provision of economic development services within Roscommon County Council. The Roscommon Local Enterprise Office is the first-stop-shop for small businesses in the county and is the driving force behind “Local Enterprise Week”. The Local Enterprise Office works in partnership with other state bodies/agencies, third level institutions, Chambers of Commerce, Community Enterprise Centres and the private sector. Now that Economic recovery has clearly taken root, we must remain focused on ensuring that our local entrepreneurs and employers are provided with appropriate supports, so that they can seize opportunities to grow their businesses and to continue to create much-needed employment. This is why we are proud to support this worthwhile initiative. I urge all businesses in the county to participate fully in the exciting array of activities and look forward to meeting many of you during Local Enterprise Week. Eugene Cummins Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council

On behalf of Local Enterprise Office Roscommon, I am delighted to present the 1st annual Local Enterprise Week from Monday 7th to Sunday 13th March 2016. The 2016 programme of events is designed to: • • • • •

Book Now: localenterprise.ie/roscommon

Deliver opportunities for SMEs to learn from specialist industry experts. Stage quality Seminars to assist businesses. Stimulate enterprise and business development. Provide support and advice to those considering starting a business. Inform business owners about the supports and services available to their business.

Local Enterprise Week is organised to help Roscommon businesses and LIBRARIES SUPPORT EMPLOYMENT aspiring entrepreneurs in the county/region. Make time for you and your business – be part of Roscommon Enterprise Week. Louise Ward Head of Enterprise

The first nationally co-ordinated ‘Local Enterprise Week’ takes place around the country from March 7th to 13th 2016. Organised by the Local Enterprise Offices, these events are aimed at anyone thinking of starting a business, new start-ups and growing SMEs.

07 March 09.30am 11.30am 03.00pm

1:1 Business Advisory Clinic Intellectual Property Seminar Trading Online Vouchers Seminar

Civic Offices, Roscommon Town Civic Offices, Roscommon Town Civic Offices, Roscommon Town

1:1 Business Advisory Clinic Alternative to Unemployment My Start Up Story Seminar

The Shambles, Ballaghaderreen The Shambles, Ballaghaderreen Work Bench, BOI, Galway City

1:1 BUSINESS ADVISORY CLINIC Dates: Time: Cost: Mentor:

09 March 10.00am 11.00am 12.00pm 06.30pm 06.30pm

Permission Marketing with Mailchimp International Trading in the US 1:1 Business Advisory Clinic Start Your Own Business Retail Seminar, Hosted by Simon Healy, AIB

Hannons Hotel, Roscommon Abbey Hotel, Roscommon Enterprise Hub, Castlerea Hannons Hotel, Roscommon Gleesons Townhouse, Roscommon

1:1 Business Advisory Clinic Enterprise Europe Network Training Launch of Library Services; Business, Enterprise and Employment Project

Enterprise Centre, Boyle Civic Offices, Roscommon County Library, Roscommon

County Enterprise Awards

Abbey Hotel, Roscommon

Location:

Roscommon County Council Civic Offices, Roscommon Town,

A Business Advisory service is available, by appointment, free of charge, from Seadna Ryan, Business Advisor, to potential, new and existing businesses. Each attendee is allotted a one hour, one-to-one meeting with our business advisor. An advisor can offer general advice to help you start or grow a business. They can also provide you with relevant information on the type of supports that may be available to you as an aspiring or existing business promoter.

COUNTY ENTERPRISE AWARDS

08 March 10.00am 10.00am 12.00pm

Monday 7th March 9.30am – 5.00pm FREE Seadna Ryan

Dates: Time: Cost:

11th March 2016 12.30pm – 2.30pm FREE

Location:

Abbey Hotel, Roscommon Town.

The County Enterprise Awards have been running since 1997 and celebrates the success of Ireland’s small businesses. At County level, the Local Enterprise Office is offering a cash prize fund of €2,500 in addition to commemorative trophy and certificate for the winner.

10 March 10.00am 11.00am 03.30pm

11 March 12.30pm

Local Enterprise Office: Roscommon | Tel. 66 26263 | Email: localenterprise@roscommoncoco.ie | Aras An Contae, Rocommon Town, Co. Roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY – INFORMATION SEMINAR Dates: Time: Cost:

Monday 7th March 11.30am FREE

Location:

Roscommon County Council Civic Offices, Roscommon Town.

The Patents Office presentation is an introduction to Intellectual Property (IP), covering all aspects of IP, including patents (for inventions, function), trade marks (name, logo, slogans) and designs (appearance, shape & configuration). It will explain how to search free databases to avoid possibly infringing others IP, as well as ensuring you don’t miss opportunities for protection. The different routes available nationally and abroad, will be covered along with approx. costs involved and Q & A session.

BUSINESS ADVISORY CLINIC Dates: Time: Cost: Mentor:

Location:

Tuesday 8th March 10.00am – 4.00pm FREE Padraig McDermot

The Shambles, Ballaghaderreen.

A Business Advisory service is available, by appointment, free of charge, from Padraig McDermot, Business Advisor, to potential, new and existing businesses. Each attendee is allotted a one hour, one-to-one meeting with our business advisor. An advisor can offer general advice to help you start or grow a business. They can also provide you with relevant information on the type of supports that may be available to you as an aspiring or existing business promoter.

Course Outline: • Overview of Intellectual Property • How to search for existing IP rights • Q&A

TRADING ONLINE VOUCHERS – INFORMATION S E M I N A R Date: 7th of March 2016 Duration: 60 - 90 minutes (approx) Time: 3pm - 4.30pm

Location: Cost:

The Trading Online Voucher (TOV) Scheme offers small businesses the opportunity to develop their website or digital marketing strategy by availing of vouchers of up to €2,500 or 50% of eligible expenditure. The TOV Scheme is intended for small businesses that wish to develop or upgrade the e-commerce aspects of their website. The TOV Scheme is not applicable to use for ‘Brochure Website’ development or upgrade. Any businesses interested in the TOV Scheme are welcome to attend.

Roscommon County Council Civic Offices, Roscommon Town. Free

TOV’s are funded by the Department of Communications, Energy & Natural Resources. Course Outline: • Overview of Trading Online Vouchers Scheme • Explanation of eligibility criteria • Explanation of the application process • Q&A

MY START UP STORY Dates: Time: Cost:

8th March 2016 12.00 – 2.00pm FREE

A Regional Event held in conjunction with Galway and Mayo, My Start up Story will feature Roscommon Entrepreneur, Mark Bannon of VT Networks - the Internet of Things (IoT) Network Operators in Ireland. The IoT describes the rapidly growing industry of devices connecting to the internet.

Location: Work Bench, Bank of Ireland, Mainguard Street, Galway. helping transform the way they do business.

PERMISSION MARKETING WITH MAILCHIMP

Time: Cost:

Wednesdays: 9th&16th March 2016 10.00am – 1pm €20.00

Dates: Time: Cost:

8th March 2016 10.00am – 11.00am FREE

Location: Hannon’s Hotel, Athlone Road, Roscommon Town. Trainer: Murphy Marketing

This programme will give attendees the skills to create and gain value from electronic newsletter campaigns, using the Mailchimp platform and show how to integrate sign-up forms onto their Facebook Page and Website. By the end of the workshops, participants will: • Be familiar with all aspects of the Mailchimp permission email marketing system. • Have an overview of Irish data protection legislation (including when a business may use email addresses, opt-out and opt-in choices). • Be able to produce a newsletter, read and act on reports and set up automated follow-up.

Dates: Time: Cost:

9th March 2016 12.00am – 4.00pm FREE

For further details on the BTWEA please contact Noel Connolly, Roscommon Leader Partnership on (090) 6630252 or email noel@ridc.ie Overview: • Information and eligibility criteria around the Back to Work Enterprise allowance Scheme. • Information on Training & Supports available from Local Enterprise Office Roscommon. • Q&A • 1:1 Mentoring available after the event until 4pm. • Employer Support Services - Department of Social Protection will be in attendance.

Location: Enterprise Hub, Castlerea. Mentor: Seadna Ryan

Each attendee is allotted a one hour, one-to-one meeting with our business advisor. An advisor can offer general advice to help you start or grow a business. They can also provide you with relevant information on the type of supports that may be available to you as an aspiring or existing business promoter.

START YOUR OWN BUSINESS Time: Cost:

Wednesdays: 9th, 16th, 30th March & 13th April 2016 6.30pm – 9.30pm FREE

Location: Hannon’s Hotel, Athlone Road, Roscommon Town. Trainer: Meehan Tully & Associates

The aim of this training is to provide potential and existing entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge to start and manage their own small business. Overview: • Business planning and Business Plan. • Personal time management. • Marketing. • Sources of finance. • Legal structure and insurance. • Employing people. • Registering your business. • Maintaining records for tax purposes.

RETAIL SEMINAR: ‘RETAIL - THE WINNING FORMULA’ Dates: Time: Cost:

9th March 2016 6.30pm to 8pm FREE

The Shambles, Ballaghaderreen.

Roscommon Leader Partnership in conjunction with Local Enterprise Office Roscommon will host a self employment information event on the above. Local entrepreneurs will be guest speakers at the event.

A Business Advisory service is available, by appointment, free of charge, from Seadna Ryan, Business Advisor, to potential, new and existing businesses.

Dates:

Location:

If you are unemployed and have a possible business idea you may be eligible for the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance Scheme or other business start up supports.

BUSINESS ADVISORY CLINIC

Overview: • Gain an understanding of this disruptive technology and how it VT Networks believes SIGFOX will connect applies to your business. the world to the IoT. SIGFOX helps make • Employer Support Services - Department impossible data possible. of Social Protection will be in attendance. Being a SIGFOX SNO allows us to offer new innovative solutions to our customers,

Dates:

ALTERNATIVE TO UNEMPLOYMENT - START YOUR OWN BUSINESS

Location: Gleeson’s Townhouse, Market Square, Roscommon Town.

Discover winning strategies for growing your business and gain a competitive advantage on the high street. This seminar will be hosted by Simon Healy, Retail Sector Specialist with AIB and founder of SMS Consulting. He has a number of clients in the grocery and pharmacy channels in Ireland and the UK. Places are limited so reserve your seat now by: Email: liam.j.flannery@aib.ie or Ph: 086 0466833 Overview: • Introduction by AIB • A Retailer Customer Story • Local Enterprise Office - Our support • Simon Healy - Retail Sector Specialist for Retailers with AIB

BUSINESS ADVISORY CLINIC Dates: Time: Cost:

Thursday 10th March 10.00am – 2.00pm FREE

Location: Enterprise Centre, Boyle. Mentor: Cahal Mahon

A Business Advisory service is available, by appointment, free of charge, from Cahal Mahon, Business Advisor, to potential, new and existing businesses. Each attendee is allotted a one hour, one-to-one meeting with our business advisor. An advisor can offer general advice to help you start or grow a business. They can also provide you with relevant information on the type of supports that may be available to you as an aspiring or existing business promoter.

ENTERPRISE EUROPE NETWORK (EEN) – INFORMATION SEMINAR Dates: 10th of March 2016 Time: 11am - 12.30pm Duration: 60-90 minutes (approx) Cost: FREE

Location: Roscommon County Council Civic Offices, Roscommon Town.

Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) helps Irish businesses innovate and grow internationally. With over 600 member organisations, throughout the world, the EEN are the largest support network for SMEs and combine international business expertise with local knowledge to help you take your innovation into new markets. The EEN is a key instrument in the EU’s strategy to boost growth and jobs. Bringing together around 600 business support organisations from more than 60 countries, the EEN helps small companies seize the unparallelled business opportunities in the EU Single Market. Course Outline: • Overview of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) • Why join the EEN? • How to join the EEN? • The potential benefits of joining the EEN • Q&A • Employer Support Services - Department of Social Protection will be in attendance.

Book now: localenterprise.ie/roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople Tree planting in Keadue to mark 1916 Rising Keadue is one of the Tidy Towns award winners receiving seven oak trees to commemorate the seven signatories of the Irish Proclamation. A tree planting ceremony and un-

veiling of a plaque will take place at the amenity beside Lough Meelagh and Knockranny Wood on Thursday, March 10th at 11 am. A number of dignitaries will attend.

Keadue and Westport are the only two towns in the west of Ireland that have won the Overall National Wward in the Tidy Towns competition. Everybody is welcome to attend.

RTE presenter is organ donor ambassador Living Kidney donor and RTÉ broadcaster Vivienne Traynor has taken up the voluntary role of ambassador for Organ Donor Awareness Week 2016 (March 28th-April 4th) which is organised by the Irish Kidney Association. The announcement of Vivienne’s ambassadorship was made this weekend when she made a presentation to members from the 25 countrywide branches of the Irish Kidney Association at its headquarters at Donor House, Park West, Dublin 12. Vivienne, the RTÉ News Anchor and Courts Correspondent, who is married to RTE sports presenter and Emo native Justin Treacy, witnessed first-hand the whole process of organ donation and transplantation from a deceased donor for her nephew Martin (now age 35) in November 2014. “I am delighted to have been invited by the Irish Kidney Association to be the ambassador for Donor Awareness Week and I hope that by sharing the story of donation and transplantation in our family we can help other families to start the conversation about their wishes surrounding deceased organ donation.”

KEEP CALM AND

BRING MUM THIS SUNDAY SAVOUR A SPECIALLY PREPARED MEAL FOR MUM

Hannons Hotel

The Heart of Hospitality

Our Chefs are busy, working on delicious menu

Pictured is Regina Reynolds, National Organ Donor coordinator, ODTI; Ambassador Vivienne Traynor; and Monica Finn, member of the Irish Kidney Association national board and Roscommon IKA at the recent announcement of Vivienne’s ambassadorship.

Campaign to reverse closure of counselling service in Roscommon < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

• Plenty •of mouth- watering options for you & your family to enjoy. Coffee Cocktail

& Sweet Treats for Mums Colouring accessories

to keep young Children entertained

For details , please contact us at 09066 37644

HANNONS HOTEL, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON 09066 37644; hannonshotel@gmail.com; www.hannonshotel.com

A strong campaign is underway to reverse the closure of a free counselling service for young people in Roscommon town. Jigsaw Roscommon, which was based at the primary care centre at the Golf Links Road, has been temporarily suspended, with its future uncertain. It provided a free and confidential support service for young people aged 15 to 25 living in Co. Roscommon. Jigsaw Roscommon was part of the national Jigsaw network supported by Headstrong, the National Centre for Youth Mental Health. The reason for the service’s suspension was because of the unsuccessful recruitment of a clinical co-ordinator, but the news has prompted outrage. More than 440 people have signed an online petition calling on Headstrong chief executive Tony Bates to reopen the service. The petition calls on him “to do everything possible to find our clinical co-ordinator and save Jigsaw Roscommon from potential closure”. The online petition said that, over a three-year period, 409 young people between 12 and 26 years were supported by

Jigsaw Roscommon. It added: “We have no doubt that had efforts been put into raising awareness of the service in schools and at a community level that the Jigsaw service in Roscommon would have had the potential and scope to be of benefit to many other young people in Co. Roscommon.” Independent TDs Michael Fitzmaurice and Denis Naughten are among those who have voiced dismay at the suspension of the service. “I can’t understand why the plug is now being pulled on this service and our most vulnerable people are being left without the support they are entitled to,” said Deputy Fitzmaurice. Deputy Naughten has asked the Health Service Executive to meet with Headstrong to try to find an interim solution to allow the Jigsaw service to operate from the start of next month. Headstrong confirmed the service closed on February 18 because of difficulties in recruiting a clinical coordinator for the service. A spokesman added: “Headstrong, the HSE and all local partners remain committed to reopening Jigsaw in Co. Roscommon as soon as possible.”

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople MAIN ST, ROSCOMMON TEL.: (090) 66 25117 Email: info@etlgifts.ie www.etlgifts.ie

‘Save Roscommon’ submissions total conﬁrmed: 28,000 < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Danny Burke, John Kelly and Michael Kitt pictured at the Hyde Centre last weekend. Picture: Andrew Fox

Ending ED crisis must be priority – Fitzmaurice Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has called on the new government to make the crisis at the country’s emergency departments (ED) its priority. The Deputy said that this week there were yet again over 500 people on hospital trolleys every day. A new administration has

yet to be formed after last weekend’s General Election delivered an uncertain result. However, speaking of the ED crisis, Deputy Fitzmaurice said: “This situation will have to be sorted out by the new government once and for all. “It will take the entire govern-

ment to rectify this ongoing mess and not just the minister for health. The nurses and staff at A&E units around the country at once again at their wits’ end with the situation. This issue will have to be number one priority for any incoming Government. This has to be solved once ad for all.”

It took Westmeath County Council almost a month to count the almost 28,000 submissions lodged to its Mullingar headquarters in response to the controversial Athlone boundary review. Of the total 27,949 lodged on time, 2,061 were electronic filings, while the remainder came in hard copy. The huge number is evidence of the anger in the county at proposals to move 38 sq km of south Roscommon into Co. Westmeath. Save Roscommon, a grassroots community organisation seeking to stop the plan to partition the county, has heralded the massive response as a huge success in letting the Government know the strength of feeling on the ground. “The people have spoken,” said Ger Aherne, the group’s spokesman.

“Given the population of Roscommon is in the region of 64,000, and people only a few weeks to respond, I think it is far to say that people in Roscommon want to keep their county intact and are against the land-grab.” Last June, Environment Minister Alan Kelly established the a three-person committee to conduct a review of the greater Athlone area, with a view to it being governed by one local authority. At present, Westmeath and Roscommon county councils share the duty. The committee are due to produce their report by March 31. However, given that the Fine Gael-Labour Government were not re-elected in last weekend’s General Election, there is a possibility that the plans to alter the county boundary will be scrapped by the new administration.

Richie Farrell (County Librarian), Caroline Egan (Chairperson of Roscommon Drama Festival) and Paddy Kilduff (Cathaoirleach) at the launch of the Roscommon Drama Festival 2016 in Roscommon Library. Picture: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Roscommom Drama Festival begins on Friday The Roscommon Drama Festival takes place this week (from March 4th to March 12th) at Roscommon Arts Centre. Richie Farrell, County Librarian, has described it as “an integral part of the cultural programme”. It is supported by the County Council which aims “to promote access at local level to the best in the Arts”. Caroline Egan, chairperson of the festival committee, said that it was “one of the premier cultural events of the year”. Over the nine nights of the festival, patrons will experience some of the best of amateur drama in Ireland presented by groups from far and near. The Drama Festival will kick off on Friday (March 4th) as Compantas Lir from Claregalway presents Proof by David Auburn. There will be numerous

performances over the week and the festival will culminate on Saturday, 12th of March. The Festival Club will be held after each performance and everyone is invited to come along, discuss the play with your friends, meet the adjudicator, Paula Dempsey, and the drama group and join in the craic. A number of venues are hosting the festival club over the nine nights and the specific details of performances and club venues can be found in the festival programme. Bookings can be made at Roscommon Arts Centre on 090 6625824 or online at www.roscommonartscentre.ie and patrons are advised to book immediately to avoid disappointment. Full details on all aspects of the festival are available on www. roscommondramafestival.com

Booking at Roscommon Arts Centre, tel. 090 662 5824 Tickets: €14/€12. Online booking: www.roscommonartscentre.ie Box Office Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10am – 5 pm; Saturday, 2pm – 5pm (on Performance Days). Performances start at 8.00 pm

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople

Call for action over ﬂooding in south Dr. E. Sweeney McSharry Roscommon HAS RELOCATED TO THE

Telephone Number: 090 66 34404 Practice Secretary Mobile: 086 1711777

The Skin & Hair Spa

Cherryside, Castle Street, Roscommon Town

We are here

––

Family Care

––––––––––

Castle Stre et

ESB

––––––––––

––

NEW Surgery

Roscommon Town

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A councillor has called for an assessment to be carried out to see why Lough Fushineagh continues to cause flooding problems in south Roscommon. The vast majority of the county’s water levels have now receded after the extensive rain of December and January, but the lake, which encompasses Rahara, Curraghboy and St John’s, remains problematic. “It’s a turlough lake, so there are drains into it, but there are no drains out of it,” Cllr. Laurence Fallon

said. “It is at least well over a metre higher now than it has ever been recorded before. There is growing concern, with one house under severe threat and a number of other houses and farmyards coming under threat.” He said that the level of the lake was continuing to rise. “Every time we get a bit of rain, it comes up by half an inch, and there is absolute concern to see why this is happening,” Cllr. Fallon said. Roscommon County Council had done exceptionally well in protecting houses from being flood-

ed, he said, but added that more action was required. “I am calling on them to do an assessment with divers to see if there is anything blocking the outlet because there is a problem of some sort,” Cllr. Fallon said. “The general opinion is that it is something more than the actual rain that fell, that there must be some interference with the exit pipe.” Cllr. Fallon said that there was a possibility that silt or plastic was blocking the exit pipe, exacerbating the flooding problem. “The other thing I have asked the council to do is

Cllr. Laurence Fallon.

an assessment of land levels to what the options are, so as that we find an emergency escape route when the water gets to a very high level,” he said.

Foróige volunteers from across Roscommon attended the 46th Foróige Volunteers’ Annual Conference which took place recently. Front row (l-r): Sarah Fahy, Theresa Creever, Trish Fagan, Linda Kirrane, Cathy Weston, Margaret Reynolds, Roseanne Hanley. Back row (l-r): John Hannon, Geraldine Warde, Tom Coppinger, Tom Madden, Caroline Higgins, Anne McGreal, Michael McCarthy and Jim Maher, Foróige Regional Youth Officer.

Roscommon represented at Foróige conference Fourteen volunteers representing Roscommon attended the 46th National Volunteers’ Conference of Foróige, Ireland’s leading youth organisation, which took place recently. The fourteen – from Loughglynn, Ballaghaderreen, Cloonfad, Roscommon town, Lisacul and Moore – were amongst the more than 220 Foróige volunteers from all over the country who took part in the conference, themed ‘Young People in 2016 – Shaping Ireland’s

Future’, which was held in Hotel Westport in Co. Mayo at the weekend. Speaking at the conference, Chairperson of Foróige Michael Lynskey paid tribute to the Foróige volunteers across the country who give their time to help improve the lives of young people. “Last year, over 400,000 hours were given freely by volunteers in Foróige – it’s a staggering amount of time, energy and

commitment. Our volunteers help equip young people with the skills, knowledge and attributes they need to lead the best lives that they possibly can and we are truly grateful.” Foróige now works with 54,000 young people and 5,500 volunteers each year through a network of 600 clubs, 150 projects and national programmes such as Entrepreneurship, Citizenship and Leadership.

News from The Melting Pot A new bookshop has opened at the new Community Space across from the Melting Pot at Castle Street, Roscommon town. There is some very good reading for all ages at very affordable prices. The Community Space is now available for meetings, evening

classes, drama groups and sporting and voluntary organisations. It has a fully heated room, with kitchen facilities, at very reasonable prices. Laundry services are available, with washing and drying at competitive prices. On Friday, March 4, a knit-

ting group are holding a sale of work, in aid of the Roscommon branch of the Western Alzheimer’s. The knitting group meet every Wednesday from 10.30 am to 2 pm in the Community Space. Trailogue are meeting in the Melting Pot on Tuesday,

March 8, at 7 pm. The topic for discussion is depression. All are welcome. For further details, contact 0906634377. Amnesty International are holding a meeting in the Community Space on Monday, March 14, at 8 pm, with plans to set up a club.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Do you turn the TV or radio up loud?

If you have experienced one or more of these situations you may beneďŹ t from a hearing test and expert advice from your local hearing aid audiologist.

Freephone 1800 882 884 to schedule a FREE hearing consultation Quote Ref: KTSS9008

Talk to your local expert Sean Mullahy Hidden Hearing Boyle Loftus Medical Centre, Abbeytown, Boyle

Hidden Hearing Castlerea, The Medical Centre, Knock Road, Castlerea

Freephone 1800 882 884 www.hiddenhearing.ie

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople

Ronan McCormack Charity Challenge The Ronan McCormack Charity Challenge will take place in Roscommon this Friday and Saturday (4th and 5th of March). There are three events planned this weekend including a Moonlight 10K, the Ronan’s Challenge Cycle and a darts competition which will take place during the post cycle social night in Foxe’s Bar in Roscommon

town. All proceeds will go towards Pieta House West, Roscommon Mayo Hospice, Crannog Child Respite Services Galway and Roscommon Special Olympics. The Moonlight 10K will start at 8.15 pm on Friday with an entry fee of €20, while the Ronan’s Challenge Cycle will take place on Saturday at 8.45 am with an entry

fee of €30. These challenging events will be followed by the darts competition on Saturday night at 7 pm in Foxe’s and the entry fee is €10. For more information about these events call 086-1721181, email ronanschallenge@ eircom.net or check out Ronan McCormack Charity Challenge on Facebook or Twitter.

Roscommon students win DCU scholarships Pilates

‘We Care About You’

Five Roscommon students have been presented with a €1000 Academic Scholarship to study at Dublin City University. The scholarships were awarded to students in recognition of them achieving 550 points or more in the Leaving Certificate. The following students received scholarships: Mark Kearney from Sleaveen and a past pupil of Roscommon CBS is now a first year Actuarial Mathematics student in DCU. Sarah Keenan from Roscommon Town and a former pupil of Yeats College, Galway is studying Actuarial

Mathematics in DCU. Caoimhe McManus from Tarmonbarry and a former pupil at Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown is now a first year Psychology student in DCU. Caoimhe McStay from Roscommon Town and a past pupil of Yeats College, Galway is now a first year Actuarial Mathematics student in DCU. Aoife Shiel from Lisroyne and a former pupil of Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown is now a first year Physical Education with Biology student at DCU. Over €100,000 worth of scholarships were presented

to fresher students at DCU. Awardees were joined at a special presentation ceremony at the Helix by their parents and former school principals on Monday night, February 15th. Each student received a commemorative certificate and the school principals were presented with a plaque to display in the school marking the significant achievement of their past pupil. The DCU Academic Scholarship Awards were presented to students from throughout Ireland on achieving 550 CAO points or more

at Leaving Certificate or equivalent. A scholarship of €1000 is awarded to students who gain the required number of points, meet the specific entry requirements and register to study with any of DCU’s five faculties: Engineering & Computing; Humanities & Social Sciences; Science & Health; DCU Business School and DCU Institute of Education. To find out more about studying at DCU or the DCU Academic Scholarships, visit http://www4.dcu.ie/prospective/ scholarships.shtml.

County Roscommon Disability Support Group (RSG)

Calling all Home Carers Are you providing regular, ongoing care and assistance to a dependent person? If so you may be interested in our up-coming Support and Training programme for Home Carers. The Programme will be tailored to meet the needs of Home Carers and includes the following: • Specialised Workshops on areas such as dementia care and challenging behaviour • Practical Home Care Skills • Occupational First Aid training • Safe patient movement training If you are interested in learning more about the programme, please attend our information and registration evening on Friday 11th March from 2.30-4.30pm in DALE Centre, Derrane, Roscommon. Please contact Christina or Sinead for further details on 090 66 25852 (ext 5)

Mark Kearney, a former student at Roscommon CBS has been presented with a €1000 Academic Scholarship to study at DCU. Mark is currently a first year Actuarial Mathematics student at DCU. Pictured with Mark are John Costello, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Health, Fiona Gallagher, Roscommon CBS, Professor Brian MacCraith, President of DCU.

Sarah Keenan, a former student at Yeats College, Galway and native of Roscommon Town has been presented with a €1000 Academic Scholarship to study at DCU. Sarah is currently a first year Actuarial Mathematics student at DCU. Pictured with Sarah are John Costello, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Health and Professor Brian MacCraith, President of DCU

Caoimhe McManus, a former pupil of Scoil Mhuire Strokestown, has been presented with a €1000 Academic Scholarship to study at DCU. Caoimhe is currently a first year Psychology student in DCU. Pictured with Caoimhe are John Costello, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Health, Eamon Corrigan, Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown, Professor Brian MacCraith, President of DCU.

Caoimhe McStay, a former pupil of Yeats College, Galway and native of Roscommon Town, has been presented with a €1000 Academic Scholarship to study at DCU. Caoimhe is currently a first year Actuarial Mathematics student at DCU. Pictured with Caoimhe are John Costello, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Health and Professor Brian MacCraith, President of DCU.

‘This project was approved by Government with support from the Dormant Accounts Fund’

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople

Top productions to feature at 55th annual Glenamaddy Theatre Festival An exciting 55th Glenamaddy Theatre Festival was launched in Jim Pete’s Pub last Friday evening (26th of February), offering ten nights of riveting drama from March 10th. MC for the night was Chairperson of Glenamaddy Theatre Festival, Peter Keaveney. Peter welcomed everybody to the launch, especially representatives from local drama groups and festivals. He also wished every success to the local group Glenamaddy Players on the circuit with their production of ‘night, Mother’. He complimented the hard work of the festival committee and thanked all the sponsors of the festival while also thanking James and Edel Donnellan of Park Tyres for taking on the sponsorship of the acting awards. Peter spoke of the great programme of plays that are on offer in the festival this year and said they were certainly not to be missed. On a sombre note he spoke of the passing of Margaret Keaveny. Margaret attend-

Tax reliefs for innovative businesses Are you benefiting from the latest tax changes?

Breakfast briefing - 10 March 2016 The topics to be discussed include: • Knowledge Development Box (KDB); • R&D tax relief; • Entrepreneur relief (CGT); and • Shareholding structures

Pictured at the launch of the Glenamaddy Drama Festival were Martina Keaveny, John Greene and Veronica Connelly. Picture: Andrew Fox

ed the Open/Confined AllIreland Drama Festivals each year, representing the festival with great dignity. Margaret leaves a huge legacy within the group and her memory will live on. Special guest on the night was Seamus McNulty, member of the Claregalway Drama Festival and Connaught Chairperson of A.D.C.I. Seamus spoke of the great community spirit and strong inter-

est in drama that has kept Glenamaddy Drama Festival going from strength to strength. He also paid tribute to the hard-working committees who have kept it going over the years. The Festival Director Coman Keaveny spoke briefly of the 10 competing groups and gave a synopsis of each play with great detail. From Thursday, March 10th ten groups from across the country will

take to the stage of Glenamaddy Town Hall Theatre. Local schools completed their art competition, which is run every year in conjunction with the Theatre Festival. For more information on all the performances and to book tickets or buy an €80 season ticket please contact 086-2045896 from 11 am-4 pm daily. Join the Facebook page (Glen Drama) or check out www. glenamaddydrama.com.

Pictured at the launch of the Glenamaddy Drama Festival were back row (l-r) Tracey Comer, David Burke, Martina Keavany and Margaret Keaveny. Front row (l-r) Peter Keaveny, Tina Ward and Coman Keaveny. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the launch of the Glenamaddy Drama Festival were Noreen Dillon and Teresa Donlon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Grant Thornton experts will examine the tax reliefs available to businesses, including the new tax incentives for entrepreneurs and for the development of Intellectual Property (IP). Please note: This event is free to attend, but booking is essential.

Date: Thursday, 10 March 2016 Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel, Northgate St, Athlone Time: 07.45am-10.15am

RSVP to Robyn Palmer Sheehan at robyn.palmersheehan@ie.gt.com or on +353 (0)1 4332 494. © 2016 Grant Thornton. All rights reserved. Authorised by Chartered Accountants Ireland (“CAI”) to carry on investment business

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople

From My Kitchen Table

http://www.google.ie/url?q=http:// www.carloweducatetogether.ie/ home/operation-transformation/

MIRIAM KERINS

What makes them sexy? It’s not Science, it’s Chemistry I

f I had the exact scientific

formula to create the world’s sexiest man, I’d bottle it, sell it and make myself a bloody fortune. However, I don’t think the result would be the enigmatic actor Leonardo DiCaprio, a somewhat fickle male who has reportedly bagged no less than nine Victoria Secret’s models and who recently, it’s alleged, had his sights set firmly on our own lovely Laura Whitmore. You see, as women, we are often complicated and incomprehensible creatures – kind of explains why these models keep flocking towards serial boyfriend Leo, and why, when polled, many lady friends of my acquaintance voted for him as their ideal sexy man. An also-ran in my ‘sexy man poll’ is he whose waistbands are so high he should be singing falsetto with the Bee Gees; Simon Cowell. Well girls, I have to say, in my opinion, Laura Whitmore’s wannabe squeeze wouldn’t even have made it to the top three! Carlsberg don’t do sexy men – but if

Cheryl and Liam…a genuine attraction? According to The Sun newspaper, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini (32) and 1D’s Liam Payne (22) ‘are secret lovers.’ OMG he’s a kid! Ok, he’s a rich kid, but a kid nonetheless! Look, there’s no polite way to say this so I’ll just spit it out – there are so many things wrong with this alleged situation; whereby the suggestion that these two are engaging in a game of tonsil tennis and who must surely be on the rebound from previous relationships, an entire psychiatric conference could be based around it. On the other hand, Cheryl’s been living in the claustrophobic world of failed relationships for so long she’d probably snog the leg of a table, leading me to worry that if these ‘secret lover’ allegations are true, Cheryl’s possibly now reached what I’d call The Black Flag stage and needs to have a massive reality check. I wish them both well.

they did, and I was placed in charge of their marketing, (or for those in the posh seats, mooorkishing) – I’d champion someone who is confident, tender, sensitive and so caring he holds your hand (or rescues you) whilst crossing the road. Think Donal, the guy who plucks darling, little lost piglet Piggy Sue to safety in the Vodafone ad. For me, sexiness is not just based on physical attraction; sure a bloke could look like Montgomery Burns from the Simpsons yet still turn me on, because once a man can carry out an intelligent conversation with me, hang onto my every syllable, look me in the eye when he’s talking to me so that I know he’s telling me the truth; and once he possesses a commanding vibe that makes other women green with envy, wishing they were in my stilettoes, then, in my book, he’s quite simply sex in a suit. Oh he’d also have to be kind to animals too!

Some women find wealth a turn-on – and yes, I love money, I do – but what happens if his surname is Trump? Will his bulging bank balance be enough to hold your interest? Seriously girls, despite the fact this wannabe US President’s business acumen has obviously been blessed with guidance from Mother Nature; I mean, he’s clearly a money maker; I’m afraid his face (and hairline) must surely have been cursed by Father Time. So it’s a big fat ‘Yeuch’ from me when it comes to fancying ‘the Donald.’ However, as I carried out my minipoll, I did notice the absence of any Irish male talent in my friends’ top totty list, so, for the record, here’s my two cents worth. First off, without stating the obvious, he-who-must-be-obeyed is top of my list; but following in close proximity, and in no particular order; here are my

‘also rans.’ In our 1916 Rising Centenary year, (and it’s the 20th anniversary of the movie Michael Collins), it’s got to be Liam Neeson for looking like, and for portraying my all-time hero on the big screen. Liam is also a lover of my ‘must-have’ and ‘most desired’ motorbike, Harley Davidson. Roscommon man, actor Chris O’Dowd, the quintessential homeboy done good, because he is so cute, so cuddly, so talented, so tall and he has never once forgotten his Oirish roots. When he played Officer Rhodes in Bridesmaids I’d have violated all kinds of traffic legislation in order to make sure Chris took down my particulars. In my opinion, dreamy O’Dowd clearly eclipses all other Hollywood hunks currently doing the rounds in La La Land by a mile. With the Republic of Ireland set to possibly be the most supported team in the Euros (come on Ireland), former Ireland footie hero Niall Quinn makes my list because he was so sensitive and caring when, way back in 2002, he comforted younger team players following Ireland’s knock-out in the World Cup. Back then, I watched the entire disintegration poolside from a Turkish hotel and cried my eyes out; but don’t get me started on the Saipan incident! Gabriel Byrne, because when he played the Devil in the movie End of Days I’d have had no problem selling him my soul. Graham Norton. Yes, I know he’s gay and I don’t stand a chance, but he makes me laugh. There is nothing sexier than a man who’s not afraid to speak his mind and at the same time take the mickey out of himself…

Lads, we only lie for your own good! According to a survey carried out by UK insurance company Privilege, women are more likely to tell a few porkies than men…now wait, there’s method in our badness…we lie to make others feel better; so my interpretation of this is that we lie to keep the peace, thus resulting in damage limitation. It’s my belief that when it comes to telling the odd porkie, women are more analytical and pay more attention to detail meaning when the situation demands that little white lie, well, we have a tendency to weave it into an intricately-sewn whopper. (I hope I’m never strapped into a lie detector, ‘cos it’d explode). Sometimes we women lie to make our partners feel better because if we told the truth all of the time their poor egos would plummet to the soles of their wellworn shoes. On the other hand, if your relationship

isn’t strong and you’re unhappy, then those little white lies may border on deceit. My solution lads? – If you don’t want us to lie to you, don’t ask us so many damn questions! Here’s the Miriam Kerins method of making life run smoothly. When walking down the street with your man and a sexy Chris O’Dowd look-a-like strides by, resulting in you getting severe whiplash as you try to get a glimpse of his tight buttocks; in the interest of furthering inter-gender understanding, just say: “No darling, of course he’s not my type, he’s ugly;” even though you know every bloke over 6’ is your type! And that birthday gift he got you; well bite your tongue ladies, and, through clenched teeth mutter “Oooh, a set of kitchen knives, how thoughtful. Come over here and let me test them between your shoulder blades for sharpness.”

newsbriefs Norma’s Art exhibition in Ballygar Norma Holian invites you to her first art exhibition, supporting positive mental health for all. This unique exhibition will take place in The Old Courthouse, Ballygar on Saturday, March 12th at 8 pm. Additional drop-in viewing times are Friday, 11th from 10 am to 3 pm and Saturday, 12th from 1 pm to 3 pm, during which Norma will attend – and you are warmly invited to drop in. Reflecting on her own life experience, Norma has captured her personal journey in a series of twelve beautiful paintings. Using a variety of art materials and skills, Norma’s positive journey of ‘Darkness into Light’ has been transformed into a thought-provoking art exhibition, which is honest, touching and beautifully moving – not to be missed! This invitation extends to everyone in our community and beyond. The highlight of Norma’s exhibition takes place on Saturday evening at 8 pm when Norma will speak about her journey as revealed in her paintings. The paintings are available for purchase and all money raised will be donated to Pieta House, Tuam. Light refreshments will be served on Saturday evening. We look forward to meeting you then.

Ballaghaderreen Chamber AGM The Ballaghaderreen Chamber of Commerce AGM will take place in the CDP office next Monday (March 7th) at 8 pm.

Courses offered at RWN Castlerea The Roscommon Women’s Network is offering a variety of part-time courses over the coming weeks in Castlerea. The courses are as follows: A Part-time ECDL course and a parttime QQI Level 5 Good Manufacturing Practice course both starting in mid-March in RWN Training Centre in Castlerea. Both courses are free to people in receipt of social welfare, otherwise there could be a charge. For more information on any of these courses call the Roscommon Women’s Network on 0949621690. The Tiny Tots Parent and Toddler group in Roscommon Women’s Network, The Old Mill, Castlerea runs every Tuesday from 10 am-12 pm, all welcome. Contact Emma on 087-6224541 or 094 9621690 for more details. Only €2 per child.

Fresh daffodils wanted for Daffodil Day Friday, 11th of March is Daffodil Day. As fresh daffodils contribute greatly to the success of Daffodil Day in Roscommon town, the volunteers/ local organisers of Daffodil Day in the town are appealing to the public to donate fresh daffodils again this year. Volunteers will be available to receive daffodils on Thursday, 10th March, at the Daffodil Day depot in the Harrison Centre, Roscommon, (the Shop Unit beside Spirit Clothing Shop), from 10.30 am to 6.30 pm. Organisers have once again appealed for volunteers to join them on Daffodil Day for street selling. Call 1850 60 60 60 for more information.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople

Widespread dumping of dead animals < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

There has been widespread dumping of dead animals and raw meat at the Bord na Móna bog near Slatta in Strokestown, leading to a “health hazard”, according to a complaint made to Roscommon County Council. On January 12, a person emailed the local authority to relay their concerns. They wrote: “This evening I saw a large quantity of raw pork roasts and shanks, which also included some eels and other stuff. “My dogs came upon it while walking and

had eaten some of it before I discovered them. Raw pork can be a particular health hazard to dogs if it contains the roundworm parasite, which can infect their muscles.” The person also said that, a few months ago, “about 50 dead young ducks were dumped” at the same location. The council also received a disturbing complaint on January 28. A Boyle resident emailed its environment department to say that a resident in their estate was regularly “burning waste in a brazier in his back garden”. “This is putting everyone’s health at risk,”

they said. They urged the council to act immediately. “I respectfully suggest you get out of your plush offices and act,” they said, referring to the new €15 million Civic Offices in Roscommon town. The council also received complaints of animals being dumped in drains last month – a dead horse in Castlerea and a dead cow in Ballaghaderreen. All of the environment complaints received by the local authority in January were released under the Freedom of Information Act.

350 complaints of illegal dumping last year – but only ﬁve prosecutions Roscommon County Council received 350 complaints of illegal dumping last year, but only five of them resulted in prosecutions. Details provided by the local authority, under the Freedom of Information Act, reveal the full scale of the problem throughout the county. The council also issued 111 litter fines in 2015, but only about half of them were paid: 44 were rescinded and five were unpaid.

HSE WEST

Roscommon Breastfeeding Support Group Quite simply, breastfeeding is the healthiest option for you and your baby Any period of breastfeeding is an advantage We would love to support you in your breastfeeding journey The Public Health Nurses would like to invite you to our Breastfeeding Support Group in:

The Quad, Roscommon on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 11.30am to 1 pm Free and friendly

Enquiries to Fiona on 086 8100667 HSE Roscommon also provide Breastfeeding Facilities in Monksland, Roscommon and Castlerea Primary Care Centres. Just ask at Reception.

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL Eileen and John Daly pictured with Ann and Joe Kelly at the Annual Pioneer Association Dinner Dance. Pic: Clare Frances Photography

ALTERNATIVE TO UNEMPLOYMENT – START YOUR OWN BUSINESS Date: 8th March 2016 Time: 10.00am – 11.00am Location: The Shambles, Ballaghaderreen If you are unemployed and have a possible business idea you may be eligible for the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance Scheme or other business start up supports Roscommon Leader Partnership in conjunction with Roscommon Local Enterprise Office will host a self employment information event on the above. Local entrepreneurs will be guest speakers at the event. The event is free to attend. For further details contact Noel Connolly Roscommon Leader Partnership on (090) 6630252 or email noel@ridc.ie Roscommon LEADER Partnership Company is delivering the SICAP programme on behalf of Roscommon Local Community Development Committee, which is a committee of Roscommon County Council. The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2015-2017 is funded by the Irish Government and co-funded by the European Social Fund and includes a special allocation under the Youth Employment Initiative.

087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople newsbriefs Workshop starting in Derrane

Fancy meeting you here: Roscommon GAA fans Rachel Nally, Paul Beisty and Frank Nally met ‘man of the moment’, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin – who was out walking his dog – as they made their way to Pairc Ui Rinn last Sunday to attend the Cork/Roscommon match.

‘Easter Hop’ in aid of Sports Park

RSG Resource Centre in Derrane will commence an Independent Living Skills Workshop with various activities including basic cooking, games, gardening etc., every Thursday from 10 am to 3 pm starting March 24th. Transport is available on request. The Independent Living Skills Programme has been kindly supported by IPB Insurance. For more information call 090 6625852 ext.2 or phone or text 089-4369497.

An ‘Easter Hop’ in aid of Roscommon Community Sports Park will be held in the Abbey Hotel on Easter Sunday night, March 27th. Music will be provided by The Heebie Jeebies. There will be dancing from 10 pm until late. Tickets from 090 6626152, The Abbey Hotel, Klassic Cleaners or from committee members. All support greatly appreciated.

Kids’ club event in Ardcarne Garden Centre Ardcarne Garden Centre will play host to a free kids club event this Saturday (5th March) from 2-3 pm in Boyle and Roscommon town. So come along and plant a colourful primrose in a pot and decorate it for your mum for Mother’s Day. This event is suitable for 4-12 year olds.

Roscommon Women’s Network is hosting an event to celebrate International Women’s Day on Tuesday, 8th March in Monksland Community Centre at 11 am. Guest Speakers include women focusing on ‘Women in Leadership Roles’ and ‘Women in the Community’ together with art, music and entertainment. Come along and join the fun. Call Maria on 087-4073321 or 094 9621690 for more details. Light refreshments provided.

Leyden slams ‘risky’ decision to add Curran

Coffee Morning in Loughglynn

< EOGHAN YOUNGMURPHY

International Women’s Day with RWN

This summer local woman, Jean Flanagan, and a group of students from Marino Institute of Education will be travelling to Zambia for six weeks as part of the Suas Educational Development Volunteer Programme. During the 6 weeks they will be working with children and alongside teachers to improve their quality of education with a focus on developing 21st century digital skills. The aim of the programme is to give the children an opportunity to reach their full potential and to break the cycle of poverty in communities in Kabwe, Zambia. In order to take part, each volunteer is required to raise €3000. Suas are a fantastic Irish charity who support access to quality education in Ireland, India, Kenya and Zambia for over 10,000 children a year! There will be a coffee morning on Sunday (March 6th) at 12 pm in the Loughglynn Community Centre, all are welcome! If anyone would like to donate online you can visit this site: www.idonate.ie/jeanflanagan.

Portrun Development on the agenda The Portrun Development Association AGM was recently held and the main topic was the generating of interest in developing and maintaining the existing infrastructure in the Portrun area. The association is made up of local residents who want to improve the area they live in. A recent tidy-up of the area took place where local residents tended to flower beds and picked up litter along the approach roads. A new committee has now been formed and more works are planned over the next few months. Speaking at the AGM, chairperson Eamonn Spillane encouraged residents and the public to get involved in maintaining the area and welcomed any ideas people have on making Portrun a better place to live while also maintaining it as an amenity area.

Solstice Choir invites new members Following a very successful trip to London, the Roscommon Solstice Choir welcomes new members to join the choir this Sunday (6th March). Rehearsals take place every Sunday night at 7.15 pm in Fourmilehouse (Kilbride) Community Centre. New members can come along on Sunday to express their interest. All welcome. Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Senator Terry Leyden, of Fianna Fáil, has strongly criticised his party’s decision to add Shane Curran to its General Election ticket – and said that it could have cost Cllr. Eugene Murphy (now a deputy) a Dáil seat. Ultimately, it was a combination of Mr. Curran’s transfers and those of Sinn Féin’s Claire Kerrane that saw Cllr. Murphy elected last weekend. However, Senator Leyden said that Mr. Murphy would have been successful anyway, and that it could have been a costly

mistake to add Mr. Curran as a candidate Roscommon-Galway, less that three weeks before the election. “It was a high-risk strategy putting on Shane Curran. It could have backfired,” said Senator Leyden. “It could have cost him (Cllr. Murphy) a seat.” Senator Leyden said that his party should have learnt from what happened in the 1997 general election in the Roscommon-Longford constituency. On that occasion, Senator Leyden won a selection convention, while Michael Finneran was later added to the ticket. Ultimately, neither man was elected.

“It reflected what happened to me in 1997, when Michael Finneran, who was instrumental in Shane Curran’s nomination, was beaten at the convention in Ballyleague and was added on,” he said. “I failed to get elected then, but would have got elected if he was not added on to the ticket. The history was there and I don’t think they seemed to read the history of the situation. “I have no doubt that he would have got elected with or without Shane Curran. Just to prove the point, Eugene Murphy won 60 No. 1s in Cornafulla (south Roscommon); he won the majority in Dysart,” he said. “He did secure that vote, even if there was somebody in the area competing with him. Shane is a fine young man and I wish him well for the future, but I don’t think he could take the real credit. “The real credit is to the workers in the party and the councillors and the Oireachtas member who supported Eugene Murphy.”

Brennan, Higgins, eyeing Murphy’s council seat < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Larry Brennan and Seán Óg Higgins have declared their interest in replacing Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy on Roscommon County Council after the Strokestown man’s election to the Dáil. Before his success in last weekend’s General Election, Murphy was a councillor, representing the Boyle Municipal District. He was elected to the position in 2014 and his term was not due to conclude until 2019. However, as a result of his elevation to Kildare Street, he must now be replaced on the council. Mary Devine-O’Callaghan, Fianna Fáil’s director of organisation in Roscommon-Galway, said: “A convention will be convened of Boyle LEA (Local Electoral Area) members to find a replacement.” Mr. Brennan, the chairperson of Fianna Fáil’s Roscommon LEA, has thrown his hat into the ring. “I will probably contest the convention,” said Mr. Brennan, a member of the party’s national executive, who canvassed on Cllr. Murphy’s behalf in last week’s election. Mr. Higgins, 26, contested Fianna Fáil’s General Election selection convention in December, losing out to Cllr. Murphy by 216 votes to 145. Chairman of Roscommon Ógra Fianna Fáil, he also wants to replace Deputy Murphy in the council chamber. “I’m definitely interested. I am considering it at the moment,” he said. “If, however, Eugene has someone he has in mind or promised that he is going to be endorsing, then I’ll respect that.” If the seat was to stay in the Strokestown area, among the favourites would be Vincent Caulfield and Claire Hoare, both of whom were very involved in Deputy Murphy’s recent election campaign.

100 years of Rahara National School! A gathering of past pupils of Rahara National School will be held from Friday, 12th to Sunday, 14th August. A historical booklet researching the development of the parish in the past 100 years is being produced which will be for sale at the event.

The committee planning this event are looking for old photographs for inclusion in the booklet. Anyone who has any such photographs can take them to Rahara National School on Sunday, March 13th from 10.30 am12.30 pm where they will be scanned on site and

returned to their owner. If this time does not suit, alternative arrangements can be made by contacting Michael Beattie at 087-9793900. This promises to be a very exciting event and it is important to pass the word to all interested parties.

Pictured is Luke Flynn from Ballyfeeney, Kilglass, voting in the recent election at Slatta N.S. Luke will be 101 years of age in April.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople

MAIN STREET, ATHLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON TELEPHONE: 090 66 63867

FOOT CLINIC

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

CHIROPODY AND PODIATRY CLINIC – €30 over 65 – regular rate €40 Reduced rates for senior citizens (over 65) for a limited time, register now

Physical Therapist is instore Wednesday & Friday

Services include: • Nail reduction • Corn removal • Ingrowing toenail treatment • Verruca treatment • Hard skin reduction • Diabetics care • Orthotic support & insoles • Cryotherapy

•Sports Injuries •Remedial Therapies •Muscular injuries

• We can dispense all prescriptions • Blister-packing and delivery service available

Give Louis a call to discuss your needs or queries’

Pictured at a Coffee Morning in JJ Harlow’s in aid of Daffodil Day (11th of March) on Friday morning last were Seán Allen, Iris Allen, Ciara Allen and Lillian McDonald. Picture: Andrew Fox

Entries open for 2016 Roscommon Easter Parade The Roscommon Easter Parade is just over four weeks away and entries are now being accepted for this year’s event taking place in the county town on Easter Sunday March 27th. It’s set to be a bumper Easter Sunday in Roscommon, which also features the Division 1 Allianz Football League encounter between Roscommon and Mayo at Dr. Hyde Park. As a result the parade will start at the earlier time of 12 noon with large crowds expected, and the Parade Committee, Chamber of Commerce, Town Team and Tidy Towns are all working together to make it a really memorable day in town. The parade promises a riot of spectacle and colour with organisers anticipating a great mix of community participation and

pageantry in this all-important historical centenary year. With that in mind the parade will feature a special ‘1916’ themed prize in addition to awards for the established categories; Community, Commercial, Most Entertaining, and Overall. Businesses are again being encouraged to add to the sense of occasion in town by taking part in the Shop Window Display while young and old can showcase some creative flair as they go head to head on the day for the honour of best Easter Bonnet. The official entry form can be downloaded from the parade’s Facebook page and website www.roscommoneasterparade.com or by emailing roscommoneasterparade@gmail.com.

Emerald Crystal Athletics Ireland Juvenils Star Awards: Shannon Quigley, Roscommon AC receives the Roscommon Award from Thomas Barr, International Athlete (Special Guest) and Ciaran O’Cathain, President Athletics Ireland, at the Athletics Ireland Star Awards Function in the Tullamore Court Hotel.Pic:Dan McGrath/Editorial Images.

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

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople If any car can, Touran can.

Jigsaw withdrawal a disgrace – Corcoran < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Emmett Corcoran, a community and political activist, has strongly criticised the temporary closure of the free counselling service for young people in Roscommon town. The service, called Jigsaw, shut on February 18 because of a problem with recruiting staff to a key position. Mr. Corcoran, from Strokestown, voiced concern that the service was in jeopardy when standing in the

Roscommon-South Leitrim byelection in October 2014, but the Health Service Executive rejected them. “I was accused of scaremongering and the HSE tried to make it appear that I was being opportunistic for political gain,” he said. “I think the recent developments show that I was, in fact, unfortunately correct in the concern that I raised.” He described the closure as “disgraceful”. This service is

vital and has not been operating at optimum level since it became ‘destaffed’ a number of years ago, despite nearly 500 young people between 15 and 25 using the service in the last three years,” he said. “In recent years, it has been covered by staff from the Galway service on an appointment basis. The whole idea of the service is that it is meant to be a drop-in service, although any service is better than none at all.”

The Touran TL 1.6TDI. From €32,480. If your busy life means you’re often behind the wheel, our stylish 7-seater will go the extra mile with you. Great to drive, it’s endlessly adaptable with bags of space and the latest parking help. Better still it’s super eﬃcient, doing up to 61.4mpg. Touran - now open for order.

Al Hayes Motors Ltd. Galway Road, Portumna, Co. Galway. Tel: 090 9742200 www.alhayesmotors.com CO2 emissions 121g/kms. No one knows your Volkswagen better than we do. We promise that our Volkswagen experts receive the latest Volkswagen training, and have instant access to the latest Volkswagen.

Sharon and Cathal Gill, Mary and Jimmy Quigley and Brenda and Adrian Reynolds enjoying the Annual Pioneer Association Dinner Dance. Pic: Clare Frances Photography

NOW OPEN

EASTER COLOURING COMPETITION

ROSCOMMON

Lanesboro Road, ROSCOMMON • Open 7 days a week • Petrol / Diesel • 24HR Diesel Pump • Home Heating Oil • Agri Diesel

Name: ____________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ Tel. no: ______________________________ Age:________________

2 Easter Hampers to be won!

2 AGE CATEGORIES: For Children aged 7 and under AND For Children aged 7 - 12 years-old

HOW TO ENTER: When you have finished colouring, add your name, address and a contact tel. no. and submit entry to Top Oil, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon by Monday 21st March. Submit as many entries as you wish.

Winners to be announced subsequently in The Roscommon People

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople

Local events in Roscommon urged to apply for Community Tourism Grants Application Process for 2016 Funding Opens For Community Tourism Initiative for the Diaspora Roscommon County Council today announced that applications for funding are now being sought under the Community Tourism Initiative for the Diaspora. The initiative, launched in 2014, builds on the community involvement legacy of The Gathering 2013 and is a joint partnership between Roscommon County Council, IPB Insurance and Fáilte Ireland. Now in its third year, the scheme provides a national fund of €1m to support local communitybased events and festivals each year. Last year, the 25 local events were supported in Roscommon attracting up to 550 visitors from overseas. The festivals funded last year included: • Irish Famine Summer School • Lough Ree Angling Festival • South Roscommon Singers Festival Administered locally by Roscommon County

Council, the application process for 2016 is now open and will close on Friday 18th March 2016. Interested parties are advised to contact Amanda Scanlon, Community & Enterprise Department at 090-66-37316 or amandas@roscommoncoco.ie to apply. Announcing this year’s funding, Roscommon County Council emphasised: “We all witnessed the benefits from The Gathering and this scheme gives us an opportunity to build on its legacy. The Community Tourism Initiative allows us to sustain many of the grass roots networks which sprang to life during The Gathering in Roscommon and sustain an infrastructure of events and relationships which will have long term tourism and social benefits for this region for many years to come. For that reason, we urge anyone out there with a good idea or interesting event, which would help us to reach out

to the diaspora, to get in touch with us and make an application.” Local authorities throughout the country are now accepting applica-

tions in order to determine those local events with the best potential to have the impact and long-term potential to make a difference.

The initiative is being administered at local level with the grant applications and awards being decided in accordance with agreed national criteria.

Comhairle Contae Roscomáin ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL ----------------–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––-

Community Tourism Diaspora Project 2016 Funding has been announced for The Community Tourism Diaspora Project. Applications are invited from community groups for community– based tourism events that have the capacity to carry through the legacy of ‘The Gathering’ into 2016 and beyond. The deadline for completed applications is Friday, 18th March 2016. Completed applications should be sent to Community and Enterprise Section, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae by Friday, 18th March 2016 by post or email. Application forms can be downloaded from www.roscommoncoco.ie or by emailing amandas@roscommoncoco.ie

Pictured at the General Election count in the Hyde Centre, Roscommon on Saturday were Fianna Fáil councillors Orla Leyden and Rachel Doherty. Picture: Andrew Fox

Signed Martin Lydon Director of Services - Planning and Enterprise

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

COMMERCIAL RANGE 161 161 161 161 161 161 161 152 152 152 152 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 151 142 142 142 141 141 141 141 131 131 131 131 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2010

VOLKSWAGEN RANGE PRE REG VANS VW Touareg 3.0TDI V6 A/T 4WD Choice Commercial €45,500+ VAT VW Amorak 2.0TDI 140BHP €31,000+ VAT VW Crafter 2.0TDI MWB High Roof 136BHP €25,500 + VAT VW Golf 1.5TDI Van Extras €16,500+ VAT VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Sports Model leather €31,000 VW Transporter 20TDI LWB 104BHP €21,000+ VAT VW Caddy 2.0TDI DSL €13,500+VAT VW Caddy 1.6TDI €13,000+ VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB 104BHP €19,500+VAT VW Caddy TDI 7 Seater €27,500 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI €27,500 VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater €27,500 VW Caddy 1.6TDI 5 Seater (€330Road Tax) €20,000+VAT VW Passat 1.6TDI C/L Estate Car €28,500 VW Golf Estate 1.6TDI C/L €24,000 VW Golf SV 1.6TDI Highline €25,000 VW Golf SV 1.6TDI C/L Automatic €26,500 VW Golf 1.6TDI Van €15,000+ VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €19,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI 140BHP LWB €21,500+VAT VW Crafter 2.0TDI MWB €23,500+VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI 140BHP LWB €17,500+VAT VW Caddy 1.6TDI €11,500+VAT VW Golf SV C/L Automatic €24,000 VW Caddy 2.0TDI 140BHP Extras €12,500 + VAT VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Life /Leisure €22,500 VW Touran TDI 7 Seater €25,500 VW Transportet 20TDI SWB €17,000+VAT VW Amorak 2.0TDI Highline 180BHP Automatic €30,000 VW Crafter MWB High Roof €17,000+ VAT VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €16,000+VAT VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater €23,500 VW Amorak 2.0TDI Extras €20,000+VAT VW Caddy Maxi 7 Seater Extras €18,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI SWB €15,000+VAT VW Caddy TDI €8,500+VAT VW Tiguan 2.0TDI €19,500 VW Amorak 2.0TDI Extras €17,000+VAT VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 140BHP €16,500 VW Sharan 2.0TDI 140BHP 7 Seats €22,500 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP €12,500 VW Golf 1.6TDI Plus €13,500 VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB €12,500+VAT VW Caddy TDI €8,000+VAT` VW Caddy TDI €7,500+VAT

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

VW Transporter 1.9 TDI LWB €9,500+VAT VW Golf 1.6TDI Plus €12,000 VW Caddy 1.6TDI €6,500+VAT VW Transporter 2.5TDI LWB €10,500+VAT VW Crafter 3.5Tn. LWB (Fridge Fitted) €8,500+VAT VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Highline Estate €10,500 VW Touran 1.9TDI 7 Seats €9,000 VW Transporter 2.5TDI LWB €9,500+VAT VW Caddy TDI €5,500+VAT VW Golf 1.9TDI Van €5,000+VAT VW Touran 1.9TDI 5 Seats €7,500 VW Transporter 1.9TDI SWB €5,500+VAT VW Caddy TDI €6,500 VW Transporter 1.9TDI LWB €6,000 VW Caddy TDI €4,500 VW Golf TDI Plus €6,500 VW Shuttle 2.0TDI 140BHP 9 Seats LWB Automatic €16,500 VW Passat 1.9TDI Estate €7,500 VW Golf TDI Van €2,500 VW Caddy TDI €2,000 HYUNDAI RANGE Hyundai 140 1.7DSL Executive €21,500 Hyundai 130 DSL Van €12,195 + VAT Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2DSL passenger €13,500 Hyundai Coupe €7500 Hyundai Getz 1.1 €6,500 Hyundai Santa Fe Comm €8,500 Hyundai Trajet DSL 7 seater €3,500 MITSUBISHI RANGE Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0TDI 4x4 €24,000+VAT Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater 4x4 Pick Up €28,500 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0TDI 4x4 €21,000+VAT Mitsubishi L200 €22,500 Mitsubishi Outlander 7 Seater Automatic €28,500 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8DSL €15,000 Mitsubishi Pajero SWB €30,000 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 LWB €15,000+VAT Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8DSL €13,950 Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater Comm. €16,500 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0TDI Comm. €10,500+VAT Mitsubishi Colt 1.5 CZC Inform €8,500 Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0TDI 7 Seater €9,500 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5 Petrol €6,500 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL Passenger €7,500 Mitsubishi Colt 1.35D Automatic €6,000 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 LWB €11,500 Mitsubishi Colt 1.5DSL Van €3,000+VAT

TRANS-

2004 Mitsubishi L200 5 Seater Comm. €5,000 2004 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5DI SWB €6,500 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5TDI SWB €4,500 BUSES & ESTATE CARS 151 VW Shuttle 2.0TDI 9 Seater LWB €39,500 151 VW Caddy Kombi 5 Setare DSL €20,000 + VAT 132 VW Shuttle 2.0TDI 9 Seater €32,500 2012 Citroen DSL Multi Bus 5 Seater €13,500 2012 VW Caddy TDI 7 Seater €18,500 2011 VW Caravelle 140BHP Extras €29,000 2010 Toyota Hiace Bus Dsl 13 Seater €15,000 2007 VW Shuttle 2.5TDSI 9 Seater LWB €16,500 FORD RANGE 151 Ford Transit Custom T270 €19,950 141 Ford Transit Custom T270 €18,000 141 Ford Transit Connect €14,500 131 Ford Transit Custom T280 €16,500 2012 Ford Transit T350 H/R €12,500 2012 Ford Galaxy TDI 7 Seater Automatic €22,500 2011 Ford Kugo 2.0 DSL €14,500 2011 Ford Transit T260 €11,000 2010 Ford Transit Connect €9,000 2010 Ford Focus DSL Van €8,500 2008 Ford Galaxy TDI 7 Seater €11,500 2007 Ford Focus DSL Van €5,000 2006 Ford Transit T260 €3,500 2005 Ford Galaxy TDI 7Seater €6,000 OTHER USED MAKES 151 Toyota Proace 2.0 DSL LWB €18,000 141 Hyundai 130 DSL Van €12,500+VAT 141 Nissan Duke 1.5 DSL (36,000K) €18,500 132 Citroen Multispace DSL5 Seater Passenger €16,500 131 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL Passenger €19,500 2012 Citroen Berlingo DSL €10,500 2011 Citroen Berlingo DSL €9,000 2011 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL Passenger €15,000 2011 Nissan Note 1.5DSL Van €5,000+VAT 2011 Opel Vivaro 2.0DSL SWB €10,000 2011 Opel Vivaro 2.0DSL LWB €10,500 2010 Toyota Hiace 13 Seater DSL Bus €14,500 2010 Toyota Hiace DSL Van €9,500 2010 Hyundai Santa Fe DSL Passenger €12,500 2008 Citreon Berlingo DSL €5,500 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe DSL Comm. €8,500 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe Passenger €7,500 2006 Nissan Navara DSL 5 Seater €8,500 2005 Nissan Pathfinder 2.5 DSL A/T €6,000

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

CILLIAN 087 4376755

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

GENUINE USED CARS QUALITY USED VOLKSWAGEN RANGE 152 Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI Extras €22,500 152 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI highline Extras white €29,500 151 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 150BHP C/L €28,500 151 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Highline (16K) €28,500 151 Volkswagen Passat 1.6 TDI C/L Automatic €28,500 151 Volkswagen Passat 1.6 TDI C/L €26,500 151 Volkswagen Passat 1.6 TDI Highline Automatic €30,000 151 Volkswagen Golf 1.6 5Dr Highline €24,500 151 Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI €21,500 151 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TDI €27,500 142 Volkswagen Beetle 1.6TDI €21,000 142 Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI Plus Model C/L A/T €22,500 142 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Highline €25,500 141 Volkswagen Tiguan 20TDI €22,500 141 Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI (35K) €19,500 141 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP C/L €22,500 141 Volkswagen Passat 1.6 TDI C/L €22,500 132 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L €21,000 131 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TDI €21,000 131 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Highline A/T €22,500 131 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI H/L €21,000 131 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI T/L €18,500 131 Volkswagen Golf TDI 5Dr C/L €17,500 131 Volkswagen UP €9,000 131 Volkswagen Polo 1.2TDI 5D €13,500 2012 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L €16,500 2012 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP C/L €18,500 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI Highline €14,950 2012 Volkswagen Polo 1.2 5DR €12,500 2012 Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI R Model €16,500 2012 Volkswagen Beetle 2.0TDI 140 €18,500 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TDI €19,000 2011 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L €15,000 2011 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI T/L €13,500 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TDI €17,500 2011 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI Coupe Leather €19,500 2010 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Highline €13,500 2010 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline €12,500 2009 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Highline €10,500 2009 Volkswagen Polo 1.4 TDI 5Dr €8,500 2009 Volkswagen Beetle 1.4 €9,500 2008 Volkswagen Golf 1.4 5Dr Petrol Comfort Line €8,500 2008 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/l €8,500 2007 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L €7,000 2007 Volkswagen Polo 1.4 A/T €6,000 2007 Volkswagen Golf 1.9TDI Van €6,500 PASSAT CC RANGE 151 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Sports €33,500 141 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Sports €31,000 2011 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Sports €18,500 2011 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140BHp Sports €17,000 VOLKSWAGEN PETROL RANGE 161 Volkswagen Passat 1.4 TSI Extras €26,500 152 Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI 5D Tech Pack €19,950 151 Volkswagen Golf 1.2 TSI 5D €18,500 152 Volkswagen Polo 1.2 5D Extras €14,500 151 Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TSI Automatic €17,500 151 Volkswagen Polo 1.0 3D €13,500 141 Volkswagen Polo 1.0 5D €12,500 131 Volkswagen Polo 1.0 5D €11,500 2012 Volkswagen Polo 1.0 5D €11,000 2012 Volkswagen Golf Plus 1.2 TSI Automatic €15,500 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 1.2 TSI (10K) €15,000 2010 Volkswagen Golf 1.4 5D €12,500 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 1.6 €6,500 SKODA RANGE 152 Skoda Rapid 1.6TDI €19,500

152 151 151 142 141 141 131 2012 2012 2011 2009 2008 2007 141 132 2012 2012 2011 2011 2010 2010 2010 2009 2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 2005 2004 2001 2012 2008 2005 152 152 152 152 152 151 151 141 132 131 2012 2011 151 131 2012 2011 2011 2011 2010 2010 2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 151 141 131 131 131

Skoda Fabia 1.2TSI Ambition Skoda Fabia 1.4 Estate Ambition Skoda Octavia 1.6TDI Skoda Octavia 1.6TDI Elegance Skoda Octavia 1.6DSL Skoda Citigo 1.0 5Dr Skoda Octavia 1.6DSL Skoda Fabia 1.2 5DR Skoda Octavia 1.6TDI Skoda Octavia 1.6 DSL Elegance Skoda Fabia 1.2 5DR Skoda 1.9TDI Skoda Octavia DSL Estate TOYOTA RANGE Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL Strata ( Leather) Toyota Hi-Lux 3.0DSL Canapy Toyota Avensis 2.0 DSL Toyota Avensis D4D Van Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL Estate Toyota Avensis DSl Toyota Avensis 2.0TDI Toyota Hiace DSL 13 Seater Bus Toyota Hiace DSL Toyota Avensis DSL Toyota Yaris 1.0 5 DR Petrol Toyota Auris 1.4 D4D 5Dr Toyota Auris 1.4 D4D 5Dr Toyota Avensis DSL Toyota Avensis DSL Toyota Landcruiser DSL LWB Toyota RAV 4 1.8 Toyota Yaris 1.0 FORD RANGE Ford Galaxy TDI 7 Seater A/T Ford Galaxy TDI 7 seater Ford Galaxy TDI 7 seater ESTATE CAR RANGE Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L Volkswagen Golf 1.2SI Petrol Volkswagen Polo 1.0 5DR T/L Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0TDI L/L Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI Estate Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Highline Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI C/L Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI C/L Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI C/L Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI C/L Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI AUDI RANGE Audi A3 5DR A/T Audi A6 2.0TDI SE 177BHP A/T Audi A3 1.6TDI Extras Audi A3 1.6TDi Audi A4 2.0TDI Audi A5 2.0TDI Coupe Audi A5 2.0TDI Coupe White Audi A4 2.0TDI 143BHP Audi A6 2.0TDI A/T leather Audi A3 1.6TDI Audi A4 2.0TDI A/T Audi A6 2.0TDI Estate Audi A4 TDI NISSAN RANGE Nissan Duke 1.2 SV Nissan Duke 1.5DSL Nissan Qashqai 1.6DSL 7 Seater extras Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL 5 Seater Nissan Micra 1.2 5Dr

€16,500 €18,500 €21,000 €19,500 €19,500 €9,500 €16,500 €9,500 €15,000 €13,500 €7,500 €6,500 €6,000 €23,500 €26,000 €15,000 €8,500 + VAT €13,500 €12,500 €11,000 €14,500 €9,500 €9,000 €6,500 €8,000 €7,000 €7,500 €6,000 €8,500 €2,500 €1,850 €22,500 €11,000 €6,000 €28,500 €19,500 €14,500 €27,500 €21,000 €29,500 €22,500 €19,500 €18,500 €17,500 €16,000 €12,500 €29,500 €29,500 €17,500 €15,500 €16,500 €21,000 €18,000 €15,000 €11,500 €10,500 €8,500 €7,500 €7,500 €19,500 €18,500 €24,800 €21,000 €10,500

2011 2011 2011 2011 2010 2010 2008 2007

Nissan Micra 1.2 5DR Nissan Micra 1.2 5Dr Automatic Nissan Note 1.5SXE Van Dsl Nissan Primaster DSL Van Nissan Qashqai 1.5 DSL 5 Seater Nissan Note 1.5 SXE DSL 5 Dr Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL 5 Seater Nissan Tida 1.6

2013 2012 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011 2010 2010 2009 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 2007 2006 2006 2006 2005 2005 2005 2005 2004 2004 2003 2003 2002 2002

SPECIAL OFFERS Nissan Micra 1.2 5Dr Opel Insignia 2.0DSL Toyota Avensis DSl Nissan Note 1.5DSL Van Ford Mondeo 2.0DSL Extras Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDi Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0DSL 7 seater Volkswagen Passat 1.9TDI Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI Rodius 270 DSL Jeep Citroen C4 1.4 Petrol Ford Mondeo 2.0TDI Mercedes A180 5Dr Dsl Mercedes C180 1.8 Hyundai Trajet 2.0DSl 7 seater Hyundai Touscan 2.0DSL Ford Galaxy 7 Seater DSL Jaguar 2.7DSL S type Mercedes Benz CDI A/T BMW 2.0DSL Coupe Mazda 6 Petrol Audi A6 Quatro 2.5DSL A/T Audi A4 1.9TDI BMW 316 1.8 Audi A6 1.8

152 151 141 141 131 2011 2011 2011 2010 2009 2009 2007 2007 2012 2011 2011 2010 2010 2010 2008 2007 2006 2006 2005 2004 2004

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

OTHER MAKES Peugeot 2008 1.4 DSL €19,500 Nissan Duke 1.2 SV Petrol (12K) €19,500 Honda Civic 2.0DSL SE €21,500 Nissan Duke 1.5DSL €17,500 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL €19,500 Citroen C4 Picasso 1.6DSL 7 seater A/T €11,500 Kia Ceed 1.6DSL €10,500 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL €16,000 Suburu Justy 1.0 5Dr €6,500 Peugeot 308 1.4 Petrol €7,500 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL €11,000 Lexus is220 DSL €6,500 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL €8,500 TRADE CARS NO WARRANTY VW Jetta 1.6TDI €12,500 VW Passat 1.6TDI €12,500 VW Passat 2.0TDI Estate 140BHP 6 SP C/L €11,500 Ford focus 1.8 DSL van €7,500 Skoda Yeti 2.0DSL 5Dr €10,500 Opel Insignia 2.0DSL €10,500 Renault Laguna 1.5DSL €6,500 Peugeot 205 1.4 5Dr €4,500 Ford Mondeo 2.0DSL €3,500 Volkswagen Touran 1.9TDI 7Seater €5,000 Ford Galaxy TDi 7 seater Zetec €5,000 Opel Meriva 1.7DSL €3,000 Nissan Micra 1.0 5Dr €2,000

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

CILLIAN 087 4376755

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

NewsPeople

THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club North/South – 1st: A. Rafferty & V. McManus, 2nd: T. Murphy & T. Smyth, 3rd: M. Kearns & B. Ferguson. East/West – 1st: J. Donnellan & J. Halliday, 2nd: C. Plunkett & J. O’Shea, 3rd: P. & S. Cooney. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club 1st: T. & M. O’Keeffe, 2nd: K. Dowd & C. McGrath, 3rd: P. Cooney & L. Curley.

Ballymurray Bridge Club Section A, North/South – 1st: A. Shine & H. Lynn, 2nd: M. Quinn & S. Farrell, 3rd: K. Blighe & M. Naughton. East/West – 1st: A. Hewitt & H. Earley, 2nd: R. Roughneen & M. Hanley, 3rd: C. Carty & M. Costello. Section B, North/South – 1st: M. Law & S. Gregory, 2nd: K. Walshe & A. McCourt, 3rd: J. O’Gara & C. Browne. East/West – 1st: G. Relihan & S. Macken, 2nd: A. Kilduff & M. Doyle and A. Carney & J. Regan (tie), 3rd: M. McSharry & S. Quinn.

Kilbride Bridge Club North/South – 1st: M. Mullen & M. Fallon, 2nd: P. Donohoe & M. Fallon, 3rd: M. Hussey & L. Hussey. East/West – 1st: B. Gillooly & F. Keane, 2nd: E. Dowling & M. Farrell, 3rd: P. Dowd & C. Neilan.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION In today’s First Reading, God forgives “the reproach” of the generations who grumbled against Him after the Exodus. On the threshold of the promised land, Israel can with a clean heart celebrate the Passover, the feast of God’s first-born son (see Joshua 5:6-7; Exodus 4:22; 12:12-13). Reconciliation is also at the heart of the story Jesus tells in today’s Gospel. The story of the prodigal son is the story of Israel and of the human race. But it is also the story of every believer. In Baptism, we’re given a divine birthright, made “a new creation,” as Paul puts it in today’s Epistle. But when we sin, we’re like the prodigal, quitting our Father’s house, squandering our inheritance in trying to live without Him. Lost in sin, we cut ourselves off from the grace of sonship lavished upon us in Baptism. It is still possible for us to come to our senses, make our way back to the Father, as the prodigal does. But only He can remove the reproach, restore the divine sonship we have spurned. Only He can free us from the slavery to sin that causes us – like the prodigal – to see God not as our Father but as our master, one we serve as slaves. God wants not slaves but children. Like the father in today’s Gospel, He longs to call each of us “My son,” to share His life with us, to tell us: “Everything I have is yours.” The Father’s words of longing and compassion still come to His prodigal children in the Sacrament of Penance. This is part of what Paul today calls “the ministry of reconciliation” entrusted by Jesus to the Apostles and the Church. Reconciled like Israel, we take our place at the table of the Eucharist, the homecoming banquet the Father calls for His lost sons, the new Passover we celebrate this side of heaven. We taste the goodness of the Lord, as we sing in today’s Psalm, rejoicing that we who were dead are found alive again. – Dr. Scott Hahn. www.salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

ROSCOMMON Driving School 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

FRANKLY SPEAKING Aftermath of an extraordinary Election FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

t’s a horrible wet,

cold, wild, wintry Monday morning but miserable and all as it is, coming after an amazing weekend in so many ways, it cannot take away the feeling that something extraordinary has happened in this little country of ours since last Friday evening.

The result of the election and the total massacre of the government parties is of course the biggest news, and with all the big-name losses, out here in Creggs and Glinsk, we are delighted with the re-election of local man, Michael Fitzmaurice. Sometimes the biggest danger to a candidate is being a red-hot racing certainty, but thankfully there was no complacency in the Fitzmaurice camp and the work put in by himself and his army of canvassers made sure he was successfully returned. As someone who was occasionally on the receiving end, when he lined out at full-back for the Glinsk footballers, I can vouch

there was no way he was ever going to lose and I offer him my heartiest congratulations and whatever shape the government takes, we are assured of having top class representation from our own parishioner. On a personal level, I think the biggest compliment I can pay Fitz is that despite a meteoric rise in political life it hasn’t changed him at all and he’s the very same today as he was long before he became a national figure. Before I leave the local election results, I must also congratulate Denis Naughten on a fabulous firstcount victory, which, as with Fitzmaurice, was well forecasted, but which also had to be delivered – and of course Eugene Murphy, who after a lifetime in politics and after many ups and downs, finally made it to the Holy Grail – well done to them all and please God we’ll all see the benefit of a stable government, hard as it may be to achieve. On the national front it is a remarkable feat by the Healy-Raes, Michael and

ingBinaeHavrrisehasnaskts Upcto locoalm ed me matters and

ip On now to give up your sponsorsh once again to remind you Walk and if there is anyone cards for the Barrie Harris ividual – who still wishes out there – company or ind n, don’t be shy, all will be to make a private contributio most welcome! Pat O’Brien, has asked me Also my good neighbour, draising night that’s being to tell you about a big funSaturday night in aid of the held in Dowd’s, Glinsk on The local legend that is DJ TD Glinsk Defibrillator Group. music, newly-re-elected Bobby is supplying the l be conducting an auction, Michael Fitzmaurice wil prizes galore and certificates there will be a raffle with who have trained in using the will be presented to those ing that’s essential in every defibrillators. It’s for somethso if you can get to Dowd’s parish, that will save lives port a great cause. this Saturday night and sup

Cllr. Des Joyce and Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice pictured at the count centre. Picture: Andrew Fox

Danny, to carry on the work started by their father, Jackie, nineteen years ago and get the pair of them elected to the new Dáil. Michael with more than twenty thousand first preferences, getting the highest total in the entire country and in the process they helped to knock two big political hitters, Jimmy Deenihan and Arthur Spring, right out of the picture. As I looked at the great vote that some candidates got, my mind (and heart) was drawn to those that didn’t fare so well and it must be so disheartening to turn up at a count and find that your supporters have deserted you in droves and that your vote is almost an embarrassment. As far as l can see, almost twenty candidates all over the country got less than 100 votes, with the lowest being 22, received by a candidate in Galway West out of a total poll of almost 65,000. In Dublin Central, another Independent candidate

got 27 votes out of almost 24,000 cast. It is my opinion that to put yourself out there in front of the electorate requires a great deal of guts, as it’s so easy to sit on the fence. So having got yourself psyched up to do so and getting your name on the ballot paper it must be soul-destroying to hear that type of figure read out after almost a month of pounding the highways and the byways, delivering your message to the electorate. Surely all candidates have a launch night, so it’s safe to assume that a lot of those that turned up on the night didn’t actually vote for the person – I’m making the assumption that more than 22 or 27 attended the respective launches because if there was less than that there, surely the candidates would have seen the writing on the wall and withdrawn from the contest. Anyway it’s all over for now – real political commentators seem to think it might be only for a short

Mighty performance from Roscommon footballers There was so much happening in the sporting world over the weekend that you’d need the full paper to cover it all, but pride of place must go to the footballers of Roscommon for the extraordinary performance they produced down in Cork last Sunday. To score 4-25 even against Creggs footballers would

take a bit of doing, but to do it to a top-rated county team like Cork, on their own patch, borders on the unbelievable, and while it would be dangerous to get too carried away, it certainly augurs well for a competitive Connacht championship and our lads, Galway are also doing okay in Division Two.

I heard Kevin McStay being interviewed after the match on Sunday and as a former forward, when he said that his team were giving the ball to the right man, in the right place and that there was no sign of selfishness, l thought to myself they are on the right track. There is, in my mind, is no greater sin on a football

pitch than the selfish player who won’t pass to anyone else even when they are in a better position. It would be a great help to every team, no matter what level they are playing at, to stamp out selfishness and greed and team spirit would be much stronger if such mé féiner (pronounced “may”) behaviour was got rid of.

while – I haven’t a clue really, but it brought a bit of excitement round the place for the last few weeks. I suppose the big hope now is that they can put their differences to one side, if there are any, and get on with the job of running the country, which after all is what they were elected to do.

And ﬁnally… Finally for this week and staying with fundraising, Jimmy Kearney of the super-group, The Lancers, asks me to mention a huge night of music and dancing in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Monday night next (7th March). It’s all in aid of the Roscommon Deanery Lourdes Invalid Fund, a charity that’s very close to my heart, and which does wonderful work round this area. Frank Nelson, The Lancers, Patsy McCaul, Mark Finn, Ita Trimble, Carmel McLoughlin, Stephanie Feeley, Top Level, and Derek Campbell will be there to provide you with a great night of entertainment. Admission is only €10, it all kicks off at 9 pm and I want you all to be there – we might even have an auld dance!

‘Till next week, Bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

CLUB ROSSIE 2016 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Early bird deal But before Sunday!

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

aarrcchh M h t M 6 h y t a 0 d 3 n y u a S d Sun

Happy

Mother’s Day

Something to get you in the mood for Mother’s Day < MIRIAM KERINS

Did you know that Mother’s Day is celebrated in no less than forty-six

countries across the globe; albeit this happens on different dates and, in case you’ve been living under a rock for the past week, it’s

being celebrated in Ireland this very Sunday.Therefore, if you haven’t yet managed to order those flowers, book that meal

or arrange that pamper day for the woman who gave you life, who raised you and who wiped away your tears; don’t fret, there

2 Mins from Exit 10 on M6

Mums ’ Pamper Pod 60 Brands

One Roof

Saturday 5th March - 2 to 5pm Complimentary

Mini Beauty Treatments Delicious

Sweet Treats Style

Advice Gorgeous

Gift Ideas

www.athlonetowncentre.com

T&C apply.

... All while you sit back and listen to the soothing sounds of the baby grand piano

are plenty of lovely local businesses right here in Roscommon who’ll be delighted to accommodate you. In the meantime, in order to get you in the mood and to further remind you just how important this woman is in your life; how deserving she is of being not only remembered but honoured, I’ve put together a list of my own favourite ‘Mother’ themed movies for two reasons. 1) I think they’re guaranteed to leave you raw with emotion and admiration and make you ugly cry so hard, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not will want to have your freak show face on display; and 2) They showcase the diversity of motherhood because just like every person you’ll meet in your life, you need to understand that no two mothers are the same. Therefore hopefully, by enjoying the mother figures in these stories you’ll be encouraged to recognise and honour that special lady in your life. Now this precious someone could be a stay at home mother, a working

mother, a single mother, a transgender mother, a gay mother or a mother whose gender cannot be labelled by simply ticking a box. She could be your Nana, she could be your auntie, she could be your step mother or she could be your friend or neighbour; it doesn’t matter; if she parented, guided, mentored or sacrificed for you, please think of her this weekend and salute her. Imitation of Life: The Lana Turner version has

the perfect formula to make you appreciate your mammy. This movie tells the story of a beautiful widow and her little girl who are joined by a single mother and her ungrateful brat of a daughter who become their live in help. Hankies at the ready for this. Steel Magnolias: This mammy/daughter/friend bonding comedy drama is both hilarious and tragic in equal parts with the acid tongued Shirley McClain’s character Ouiser, “Oh! He’s a real gentleman! I bet he takes the dishes out of the sink before he pees in it!” getting to deliver one of the funniest lines in the movie. See it and weep. Chocolat: This charming, delectable, light hearted tale of a single mother and her young daughter who move into a quaint French village, raising the hackles of the small minded, repressed, rigid, inhabitants, who mysteriously begin to see their mundane and complicated lives transformed when they sample the free thinking mother’s mouth-watering confections. Now that I’ve got you well and truly in the mood folks, get yourselves out to the shops and splurge on some small but meaningful indulgence for Mammy and nurture her for a change.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

aarrcchh M h t M 6 h y t a 0 d 3 n y u a S d Sun

Happy

Mother’s Day Let’s celebrate ‘Global Mammies’ this Mother’s Day T

armonbarry native, Mary Gannon from Trocaire is calling on people to remember the extraordinary mothers across the developing world this Mother’s Day. “This weekend people across Ireland will celebrate the mothers in their families and honour the women in their lives. The ‘Irish Mammy’ is a blessing to be cherished, but I always also remember the ‘Global Mammies’ across the developing world who, despite struggling against unimaginable poverty and injustice, are making sure their children have a brighter future. “Mothers across the de-

molloys lifestyle pharmacies & health stores | Roscommon | Ballaghaderreen | Ballina| Crossmollina

veloping world are struggling to feed their children and earn enough money to send them to school. The sacrifices mothers and families are making is extraordinary and highlights their strength and determination,” she said. This week Trocaire is celebrating the women the organisation has been able to support thanks to donations from county Roscommon and across Ireland particularly during the Lenten campaign. The Trócaire Box is the organisation’s biggest fundraising campaign and provides funds which are critical to programmes overseas. Last year Trocaire’s

work supported 2.4 million people across the developing world. 75,000 women found specific support from the women’s empowerment programme, which is building women’s incomes and reducing their vulnerability to abuse and exploitation. This work would not have been possible without the generous support Trocaire receive from communities across Ireland. Across Ireland this weekend we will be celebrating the wonderful ‘Irish Mammy’ and Trócaire has asked the people of Roscommon to also remember the wonderful ‘Global Mammies’ who

are working tirelessly to make sure their children have a better future. This year the Trócaire box is dedicated to the thousands of people across Ireland who say “I’ll do what I can”. 800,000 people support the Lent campaign each year through the Trocaire Box. Thanks to people across Ireland we are supporting mothers to grow enough food for their children and earn enough income to send them to school. With the loyal support from county Roscommon they will build a better life for their families. For more information log onto www. trocaire.org.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

aarrcchh M h t M 6 h y t a 0 d 3 n y u a S d Sun

Happy

Mother’s Day Mother’s Day through the centuries! M < SEAN HORAN

Advertorial

Mum’s the word this March at Athlone Springs Hotel Cedar Bar and Restaurant at the Athlone Springs Hotel is the perfect place to dine with your mum and family this mother’s day. The hotel’s Head Chef Trevor Donegan has prepared a gorgeous spring season menu with lots of choice for all the family. “It’s all about fresh ingredients sourced as locally as possible. All of our food is homemade on site and the team and I

strive to offer the very best culinary experience to our guests” says Trevor. Enjoy a 3 course lunch from only €25.00 per adult and children are €7.95. The extremely popular lunch will be available throughout the afternoon and you’re your mum will receive a complimentary nail file and polish voucher. For bookings contact 090 6444444, email info@athlonespringshotel.com or log onto www.athlonespringshotel.com.

other’s Day is an annual historic celebration that dates as far back as the era of ancient spring festivals of the Greeks. Ancient Romans celebrated a spring festival called Hilaria, dedicated to Cybele, a mother goddess. These ceremonies began some 250 years before Christ was born. What was known as Mothering Sunday began in the 1600’s in England. Early Christians celebrated this day on the fourth Sunday of Lent in honour of the Virgin Mary. Mother’s Day became the commercial phenomenon it is today after World War II, when American servicemen brought the custom back on their return from war-zones. As the concept became popular, commercial enterprises began to focus on it more and more! (A lady called Anna Jarvis is credited with founding the Mother’s Day movement some

years prior to the war). These days, Mother’s Day is celebrated in over 40 countries around the world. Here in Ireland it is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent, the same day that Mothering Sunday was celebrated by people in the 1600’s. In the U.S., it is celebrated on the second Sunday in May. It is also celebrated on this date in countries

such as Australia, Brazil, Germany, India, Japan and Turkey. Mother’s Day is now one of the most commercially successful days of the year in Ireland, as it is across the world. For example, in the U.S, consumers spend an average of $139 (€127) on Mother’s Day gifts. Typically, purchased gifts include items such as jewellery, flowers, chocolates,

and greeting cards. Some people claim that Mother’s Day has become too commercial, that it has become more about the gifts than the expressing of love for one’s mother! Ultimately, Mother’s Day is a day for celebrating motherhood and gives us an opportunity to pamper and thank mothers for their love, care and kindness.

Wishing all the Mammies out there a very Happy Mother’s Day from all of us in Molloys, Artisan Bakers Fresh Cream Cakes available Saturday & Sunday Morning. Visit our facebook page to

WIN Afternoon Tea for 4 Abbeytown, Galway Road, Roscommon Town

Tel: 090 6625940 info@molloysbakery.ie www.molloysbakery.ie facebook/molloys.bakery twitter/molloysbakery

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

aarrcchh M h t M 6 h y t a 0 d 3 n y u a S d Sun

Happy

Mother’s Day KEARNEY’S CHEMIST

Mum’s the word – Humorous musings on motherhood

MAIN STREET, CASTLEREA

Tel: 094 962 0055 • Fax: 094 96 21746 Out of Hours Service, contact: 086 2832273

Special Mothers Day Offers

“There is only one pretty child in the world, and every mother has it” – Chinese Proverbs “A suburban mother’s role is to deliver children obstetrically once, and by car for ever after” –Peter De Vries (Novelist) “I want my children to have all the things I couldn’t afford. Then I want to move in with them” – Phyllis Diller (Comedian) “As long as a woman can look ten years younger than her own daughter, she is perfectly satisfied” – Oscar Wilde (Author) “If evolution really works, how come mothers have only two hands?” – Milton Berle (Comedian) “People who say they sleep like a baby usually don’t have one” – Leo J. Burke (Psychologist) “When my kids become wild and unruly, I use a nice, safe playpen. When they’re finished I climb out” – Erma Bombeck (Columnist) “God could not be everywhere; so he created mothers” – Jewish proverb

How come mothers only have two hands? < DAN DOONER & SEAN HORAN

It’s that time of the year when we remember the most important women in our lives – following 364 days of taking them for granted! Mothers have been the inspiration for some of the most beautiful quotes. So ignore your bratty teenager telling you he/she hates you and he/she wants to move out, read these instead and remember he/she never really means it!

Quotes “A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie” – Tenneva Jordan (A woman famous for quotes about mothers) “All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That’s his” – Oscar Wilde (Writer) “The most remarkable thing about my mother is that for thirty years she served the family nothing but leftovers. The original meal has never been found” – Calvin Trillin (Journalist) “If evolution really works, how come mothers only have two hands?” – Milton Berle (Comedian) “Having one child makes you a parent. Having two you are a referee” – David Frost (Journalist) “My mom and I have always been really close, She’s always been the friend that was always there. There were times when I didn’t have a lot of friends. But my mom was always my friend. Always” – Taylor Swift (Singer) “Working mothers are guinea pigs in a scientific experiment to show that sleep is not necessary to human life” – Anonymous “My mother’s menu consisted of two choices: Take it or leave it” – Buddy Hackett (Comedian) “Don’t forget to pick up a bottle of wine for your Mom for Mother’s Day. After all, you’re one of the reasons she drinks” – Anonymous

15% OFF ALL PERFUME SETS • Personalised Hampers made to order • Gift Vouchers available

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

Mammy, Honour Thy Self! J < MIRIAM KERINS

ust in case it’s

skipped your mind folks, this Sunday, March 6th is Mother’s Day…the day we all get to honour d’mammy and to let her know how much we love and appreciate her. However, if you’re a mammy yourself and, unfortunately, your kids don’t live close by, well close enough for you to threaten them – and they tend to “forget” it’s meant to be your special day; and who instead, send you a hastily composed last minute text message with a ‘Happy Mother’s Day Mam, (smiley face emoticon followed by a heart) – I’ll give ya yer pressie when I see ya;’ then don’t worry. Don’t even shed a single tear, ya hear me, because you know what; you’re not alone! Yes girls, we’ve all been there, we’ve had that text – and we’ve also had the flowers and the lovely presents too; but more often than not it’s just that last minute, “oops, I forgot,” cop out text, but, in fairness ladies, it’s not their fault because we’ve only got ourselves to

blame. You see, sometimes I think we Irish mammies are so wrapped up in our kids; so concentrated in spoiling and pampering them; we tend to forget that what we’ve actually done is raised a nation of ungrateful gits. And yes, I do concede, not all kids forget their mammies on Mother’s Day, and, I know it’s hard on those adult kids who don’t live near d’mammy to visit very often, I do understand; but for God’s sake they could make an effort to remember the woman who raised them; who made enormous sacrifices for them; who not only gave them a licence to wreck her body with stretch marks but who also permitted them to be a never ending drain on her purse, her sanity and her energy– well couldn’t they??? And breathe… Whew! So Mammy, if you want to be treated like the Queen that you so obviously are this Sunday, then why not do what I plan to do and honour yourself! Yes, go on, set a precedent and spoil yourself; you know you deserve it. For once, this weekend, instead of

thinking of everyone else, please, just think of No 1! • Start preparing now by ringing the hairdresser and booking that fabulous, funky, sexy style you’ve been dying to try for ages; then pop into the beautician and have those beautifully manicured gel nails; and, while you’re at it, sure get those brows and lashes tinted! G’wan, ya massive roide! • On Saturday afternoon, (yes, start early), don’t cook dinner, instead, go up to your room with a bottle of Prosecco, a copy of The Roscommon People, a disgustingly large cream cake, and, issuing a ‘do not disturb unless blood is being spilled’ order, lock the door and catch up on the local gossip. • You’ve worked hard to regain that pre-ungrateful brat, sorry baby, figure, but this weekend, all diets are off. Dial for dinner, ordering your favourite takeaway and finish off that box of left over Christmas chocolates; go on, indulge, and leave the crappy orange creams that taste like Marmite for the meanies who forgot to honour you on your special day.

Large selection of Mother’s Day gifts in stock

Gift Vouchers Available (Image for illustration purpose only)

• Variety of Accessories • Bag Hampers • Candlewear • Catering from sizes 10-24 • Hats and Fascinators For Hire • Selection of Kiddies Wear also in stock

The Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon. TELEPHONE: 090 6637904

Now taking bookings for Mother’s Day TAKEAWAYS AVAILABLE

HORAN’S

RESTAURANT Racecourse Rd., Roscommon Town

Now taking bookings for Mother’s Day OUTSIDE CATERING AVAILABLE

Call John on 090 6626380 or 086 8538519 ●

Open late ● Booking advised

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

FarmingPeople

Plan needed to improve rural areas – Fitzmaurice Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, who was re-elected last weekend, has called for a comprehensive plan to be compiled to improve rural Ireland. The Independent TD said that, since the election, many parties, including Fianna Fáil, had “latched on to the call

for a much-improved deal for rural Ireland”, which he said that he been long advocating for. “But instead of paying lip service to rural Ireland, we have to come up with a comprehensive plan to improve the lot of communities in rural areas,” he

said. “There are a long list of issues, including the treatment of small farmers, broadband and mobile phone coverage, rural Garda stations, schools, flood prevention and road repair. “There are also issues with regard to the treatment of small businesses, the

creation of jobs and opportunity.” He said that these matters could only be addressed by the established of a minister for rural affairs, which would be a full cabinet post. Deputy Fitzmaurice, a member of the Independent Alliance, added: “This

would be a central plank in any negotiations that I would conduct with regard to the formation of a government.” The recent election results were evidence that no recovery was being felt in rural areas, a situation that must be addressed immediately, he said.

Macra and Aurivo/ Nutrias silage information night Over the last number of months Macra na Feirme in the Northwest region has been running a silage competition in association with Aurivo Co Op and their Nutrias brand of animal feeds. The competition was open to Macra na Feirme young farmer members and a huge number of entries were received from county Roscommon. Samples were tested by Aurivo in their testing laboratory. Entrants were contacted by Aurivo farm commercial specialists/nutritionists with their results and received any nutrition advice that they required based on their silage sample results. The presentation night will take place in conjunction with a young farmer information meeting, on Tuesday, March 8th at 8 pm in the Sligo Park Hotel, Sligo. Presentations will be given on the night by Aurivo nutritionists and commercial farm specialists who will speak about the silage results as well as give young farmers practical tips for producing quality silage in 2016.

Slatted or Dry Shed WANTED

Pictured at the Nutrias Feed Mill in Ballaghaderreen for the recent launch of the Macra na Feirme & Aurivo/Nutrias silage awards night were (l to r): Tony Gilligan, Nutrias Engineering Manager, John Daly, General Manager Agribusiness, Sean Finan, National President Macra na Feirme, Stephen Blewitt, Aurivo Supply Chain Manager, Sheila Maloney, Customer Care, and John Ruane, Castlerea Branch Manager.

Short or Long-term Lease MUST HAVE ACCESS FOR ARTIC TRUCK Contact: 087 2541720

Ploughing ﬁnals set for spring

Castlerea Mart Report Increased numbers of stock presented this week and with improved weather conditions demand was strong for all classes of offer especially the quality lots with farmers and agents trying to source feeding stock. Bullocks, heifers and feeding cows sections reported lively trades while the suck calves and breeding stock reported good clearances. Sample prices – bullocks: Ch 485kgs €1305, Ch 450kgs €1205, Lm 530kgs €1370, Lm 560kgs €1410, Lm 610kgs €1380, Lm 710kgs €1470. Heifers: Lim 405kgs €1055, Sim 415kgs €1295, Lm 450kgs €1295, Lim 470kgs €1215, Ch 550kgs €1360, Lm 550kgs €1355. Dry cows: Lim 740kgs €1400, Si 655kgs €1295, Ch 640kgs €1245, Fr 655kgs €980, Lm 635kgs €1230. Cows with calves at foot made from €1230 to €1900 per head. Springers made from €1170 to €1825 per head. Calves: Young dairy-type calves made from €55 to €120 per head Hr and Angus type made from €200 to €335 with continental making from €350 to €550 per head. Weanling bulls: Ch 240kgs €805, Ch 265kgs €860, Lim 280kgs €885, Ch 480kgs €1190, Lim 430kgs €1130. Weanling heifers: Ch 280kgs €900, Lm 360kgs €1035, Ch 305kgs €935, BBX 260kgs €800, Sh 270kgs €860. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart.

Pictured at the recent show and sale in Carrick-on-Shannon is Coman Neary (exhibitor) with the Overall Irish ANGUS Champion Cregga Leo 303. Also in the photo are Paddy Farrell (Midland & Western) and John Farrell (Irish Angus President).

The Roscommon Ploughing Association is holding their 21st Ploughing Championships and Field Day on the farm of James and Eleanor Coffey in Lecarrow on the 3rd of April. If you wish to enter a Trade Stand please contact Thomas on 087-2395171 or Tim on 087-2755738. The Novice competition is being held on March 19th at 12 pm on the farm of John and Jacinta Hanley in Creggs and those wishing to compete must be between 16 and 35, for more information please contact Tim on 087-2755738 or Padraig on 087-2965494.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

FarmingPeople

PropertyPeople

Castlerea Co-operative Livestock Mart Ltd.

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

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300

NEW TO THE MARKET

email: info@castlerealivestockmart.com web: www.castlerealivestockmart.com

PRIME LANDS CONTAINING C.30.54 ACRES LOCATED AT

BALLYDALY AND CLOONEYOGAN, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON.

PROPERTY SERVICES PROVIDERS LICENCE NO. 002249 THURSDAY 10TH MARCH:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS THURSDAY 17TH MARCH:

NO SALE (ST. PATRICKS DAY) MONDAY 21ST MARCH:

BULLOCK SALE. PLEASE NOTE AS AND FROM MONDAY 21ST MARCH BULLOCK SALE WILL RESUME ON MONDAYS INCLUDING MONDAY 28TH MARCH, (EASTER MONDAY). THURSDAY WEEKLY:

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

DEREK BEIRNE AGRI Elphin, Co. Roscommon

Slurry Pipeline System (Splash Plate or Dribble Bar) Suitable for Glas Scheme Covering all areas

TEL: 086 6070680

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

TOM ROGERS

28 Henry Street, Roscommon town.

Bargain Henry Street property available

David Diffley, MIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon is this week inviting final offers after €60,000 by 12 pm on Friday, 18th March for a superbly located two storey semi-detached residence located at 28 Henry Street, Roscommon town. David describes the property as: “A primely located property of approximately 1,190 square feet currently comprising of a couple of two bedroom apartments. The property, which is in need of renovation throughout, stands on a large site area with the benefit of a large rear garden area. The ground floor accommodation comprises of a reception hallway, a living/dining

room, a kitchen, a rear hallway, one bathroom, and two bedrooms. “The first floor accommodation comprises of an open plan kitchen/dining/living room, one bathroom, and two bedrooms in all with a balcony area off to the rear.” The auctioneers now invite final viewings and all offers after €60,000 to sell by 12 pm on Friday, 18th March 2016. For further details or to arrange a viewing, contact David Diffley, MIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 6626579, email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

BALLINASLOE

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price guaranteed

THINKING OF FORESTRY:

Colm Freyne BSc (Forestry)

Galway/Roscommon Ph: 087-6606043

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

Tel: 094 9542668 www.westernforestry.com

NEW TO THE MARKET AN EXCITING NEW DEVELOPMENT OF TWO AND THREE BEDROOM HOMES LOCATED AT

THE EXCLUSIVE “OLDWOOD” DEVELOPMENT, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON.

--------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET PRIME ROADSIDE LANDS OF C. 12.5 ACRES IN TOTAL LOCATED AT

MOYGLASS, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON. (IN ONE OR TWO LOTS SHOULD MARKET INTEREST DICTATE)

44 Watervale, Roosky Village, Co. Roscommon.

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

--------------------------------------------------

BER: A. Legal: Billy Brandon, Messers Patrick J Neilan & Co, Roscommon. 090 66 25405. Viewing strictly by appointment with the sole selling agents.

Daily collection

Serving Farmers since 1985

The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and offers to sell. BER residence: exempt. Legal: Kieran Connolly, Bank Buildings, 39 Hill St, Newry, Co. Down. BT34 1AF. 048 302 65311.

On the edge of Roscommon town, Oldwood is an executive development in stunning surroundings exclusively designed for modern living. With an “A” BER rating, you will find a level of finish that will not fail to impress. On offer are 2 bedroom bungalows and 3 bedroom semidetached residences located adjacent to Roscommon County Hospital and all town amenities. For further details or copy brochure, contact the office.

JOHN GREENE

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

Lot 1: c. 15.69 acres of lands located at Ballydaly, Tulsk on which stands a one storey residence (in need of restoration) together with outbuildings. Lot 2: c. 6.59 acres at Ballydaly, Tulsk. Prime roadside lands. Lot 3: c. 8.26 acres located at Cloonyogan, Tulsk. Roadside lands just located off the main Roscommon/Tulsk route at Fourmilehouse.

Superb starter home in Rooskey David Diffley, MIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon is this week offering new to the market a primely located semi-detached residence of approximately 1,180 square feet located at 44 Watervale, Roosky Village, Co. Roscommon. David describes the house as “A threebedroomed residence located in a much sought after and established development on the river Shannon adjacent to Rooskey village. “This property is priced to sell and we now invite immediate viewings and

offers. The accommodation comprises of a welcoming hallway, an open plan kitchen/dining/living room with a WC. On the first floor, there are three bedrooms with a master ensuite and one larger bathroom.” Price guide: €75,000 ono to sell. For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact Property Partners Earley, Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 6626579, logonto www.propertypartners.ie or email jearley@propertypartners. ie.

A compact parcel of roadside lands located on the opposite sides of the public roadway which can be sold in the following lots: Lot A: The entire; Lot B: c. 4.4 acres; Lot C: c. 8.1 acres. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. LEGAL: BRID MILLER, SOLICITOR, ATHLONE RD, ROSCOMMON. 090 66 27777.

-------------------------------------------------------

UNIT TO LET Prime commercial units of c. 5,000 and 10,000 sq.ft located convenient to Roscommon town. For further details, apply the office. ------------------------------------------------------------

LANDS TO LET ROSCOMMON AREA We have a large portfolio of lands to let to include: • c. 35 acres located at Bushfield, Castleplunket with the benefit of entitlements. 5 year term. • c. 25 acres located at Cloonfinlough, Strokestown. 6 year term. • c. 16.7 acres at Funshin, Creggs, Co. Galway. 5 year term. • c. 4.5 acres located at Ballybrogan, Lecarrow from now until the 1st November 2016. • c. 33 acres located at Ballybrogan, Lecarrow from now until the 1st November 2016. For further details contact the office.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

PropertyPeople Sean Naughton MIPAV COMMISSIONER FOR OATHS, AUCTIONEERS, VALUERS, ESTATE AGENTS THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TEL: (090) 6625080 ((offi office) ce) Mob: 087 2479486 — Fax: (090) 6627161 Email: seannaughton@eircom.net PUBLIC AUCTION (Unless previously sold) Auction on Friday 11th March in Abbey Hotel Roscommon Town at 4pm HIGHLY IMPORTANT SALE Commercial & Residential Premises

“The Forge Inn “ Moylough, Co. Galway Clean 7 Day Licence 4900 sq ft Public Bar & Lounge with Residential Accommodation for sale in Moylough, Co. Galway Licensed Area comprises of Public Bar & Large Lounge, Ladies & Gents WC, Cold Storage area, Large smoking area and Kitchen. Residential Accommodation comprises of Living Room, Kitchen. One of the best known premises for functions in Moylough and located within 30 mins of Galway City. BER: D2 Price on Application. LEGAL BRID MILLER, SOLICITORS . TEL (090 66 27777)

--------------------------------------------------------------------PUBLIC AUCTION (Unless previously sold) Auction on Friday 11th March in Abbey Hotel Roscommon Town at 4pm

3.5 acres of land for sale at Lysterfield Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon Low Reserve of €15,000 LEGAL BRID MILLER, SOLICITORS . TEL (090 66 27777)

--------------------------------------------------------------------FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY

16 acres of top quality land Gort, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon Price on Application Joint Selling Agents Ivan Connaghton Auctioneers, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel. 090 6663700.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

ENTITLEMENTS FOR LEASE 65 Entitlements for Lease. All enquires to all enquires to Sean Naughton Auctioneers.

Fantastic business opportunity at Moylough Auction on March 11 The Forge Inn, Moylough, Co. Galway comes to auction as a clean 7-day licensed premises with residential accomodation. The licensed premises includes a public bar and a spacious lounge area with ladies and gents facilities, a cold storage area, a kitchen and a large smoking area. On the residential side, the property contains a kitchen, living room and three bedrooms. This renowned entertainment venue of 4,900 square feet would be perfect as a licensed

Phone: 071 96 34737 Fax: 071 96 34703 Mobile: 087 6025597 Email: info@kleavyauctioneer.com Auctioneers, Valuers & Estate Agents Independent Mortgage Consultants www.kleavyauctioneer.com

Lands to Let: Circa 25 acres at

CUILLAGH, SCRAMOGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON.

The said lands can be let until October 2016

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

NEW TO THE MARKET AT ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON

premises or converted to a number of commercial units for retail or office use. This is a unique investment opportunity in the very heart of Moylough town and located only 30 minutes from Galway city on the Roscommon to Galway road. The auction of this property will take place on Friday, 11th March at 4 pm in the Abbey Hotel,

Roscommon, unless previously sold. Also on offer at this auction is 3.5 acres of top quality land at Lysterfield, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon. This land has a low reserve price of €15,000. For further details on all properties please contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090 6625080 or email seannaughton@ eircom.net.

Landmark Roscommon AIB building at Hughes & Co This week Hughes & Company have confirmed that they have had a lot of interest in the two houses that were advertised for final offers last week. Anybody interested in these properties should make contact with the company sales are expected to conclude in the coming days. The company are also offering for sale at Moher, Lanesboro, a four bedroomed bungalow finished to a high standard with dual fired central heating and a large private site. This property is located a short distance from the village of Lanesboro. Offers above €160,000 are being considered. At Church Street, Roscommon the Pat Hughes has for sale the Old AIB Bank measuring approximately 3,500 square feet. The building is suitable for many uses and is currently laid out into a shop unit on the ground floor and offices on the first and

ELPHIN STREET, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

Attractive well located town house in need of total modernisation. The property was originally let in two separate units and can be converted back into a family home if required. The residence is located in a prominent location. Viewing highly recommended. ------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE AT CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON.

Circa 2.500 sq. ft. Landmark Building, formerly the old AIB. Currently laid out in Shop Units and a number of offices, wired separately. ------------------------------------------------------------------

LANDS TO LET • At Mount Talbot, Roscommon – Circa 80 acres of top quality Agricultural Land with entitlements on a 5 year lease – No Cattle after 1st November.

The old AIB building, Roscommon town

Abbey Street, Roscommon.

Kilteevan.

Moher.

second floors. All offers in excess of €250,000 are being accepted for this landmark building. The company have also confirmed, that they have for sale in Roscommon town, an attractive three bedroom town house, fully furnished and let on a short term lease at €150 per week. All offers above €100,000 are being accepted for this property. At Henry Street, Roscommon the company have for sale a large commercial building with a two bedroomed apartment on the first floor. The building is located close to all amenities and in excellent condition. Viewing is highly recommended. At Clooneigh, Kilteevan, Hughes & Company have

approximately 57 acres for sale with a 3 bedroomed bungalow in need of modernization situated on the land. The property is located less than two miles from the village of Kilteevan in a pleasant rural setting. The land can be sold in a number of different lots to suit perspective purchasers. Hughes & Company are confirming that they have for sale at Carrowmoney, Rahara approximately sixty acres of top quality agricultural land located in one block with extensive road frontage and an excellent view of the surrounding countryside and the river Shannon. The land is located less than two miles from the village of Knockcroghery

and a short distance from Rahara. Pat feels this is an ideal opportunity for a local farmer to increase their holding or for someone to acquire a nice compact farm. Viewing is highly recommended. For further details please contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom. net. Pat Hughes has a number of lands to lease this week. At Mount Talbot, Roscommon approximately 80 acres with entitlements under a five year lease, no cattle after Novemeber 1st. The Lands have the benefit of a cubicle shed with a slatted area. This land can be let in lots to suit. At Drumdaff, Kilrooskey, approximately 30 acres

available for 11 month letting, cattle only. At Curraghboy, Kiltoom Pat has approximately 43 acres of top quality land under a five year lease. Over in Gallowstown, Roscommon there are 30 acres available on a six year lease. At Ballinaheglish, Roscommon Pat is offering approximately 60 acres on a five year lease with no cattle after Novemeber 1st. Meanwhile close to Glinsk in Co. Galway there are approximately 56 acres available on a five year lease. If you are thinking of buying or selling contact Hughes & Company, advice is free on 09066 27003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom.net.

• At Mount Talbot, Roscommon – Circa 10 acres on a 5 year lease. • At Roxboro, Roscommon – Circa 30 acres cattle only. No cattle after 1st November. • At Drumdaff, Kilrooskey – Circa 30 acres. 11 month letting. Cattle only. • At Curraghboy, Kiltoom – Circa 43 acres of top quality land can be let on a 5 year lease. No Entitlements. • At Gallowstown, Roscommon – Circa 30 acres on a 6 year lease. No cattle after 1st November. • At Ballinaheglish, Roscommon – Circa 60 acres on a 5 year lease – No Cattle after 1st November • At Mullymux, Roscommon – Circa 30 acres. No Cattle after 1st November. • At Ballyforan – Circa 30 acres, can be let in one or two lots, 11 month letting. ------------------------------------------------------------------

HAY / SILAGE FOR SALE • Convenient to Athleague Village – 60 Bales of top quality Silage selling at €12 per bale. • 200 Square Bales Hay at €3 each. • 50 Round Bales Hay at €25 each.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

PropertyPeople

newsbriefs

Prime unit to let in Roscommon town

Charity Shop seeks donations

Connaughton Auctioneers have a prime commercial unit comprising approximately 3,000 square feet to let on a long or short term basis in a prime area of Roscommon town, adjacent to Roscommon Tyres and Roscommon Signs. With the benefit of threephase electricity, a high eave and roller door to front in this open plan unit, it is suitable for many uses and enquiries are invited. Contact Ivan at Connaughton Auctioneers for more information and viewing 090 6663700.

●

House and land to be snapped up in Castlerea John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon is this week offering new to the market a very attractive countryside bungalow standing on approximately 4.4 acres located at Clooncoose North, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. John says: “This is an extremely attractive countryside bungalow residence of approximately 950 square feet with the benefit of lands incorporating a section of boglands. The building offers a recess porch, reception hallway, sitting room, kitchen, three bedrooms and a bathroom. Services include oil, fire, central heating system, water, ESB, phone services and a storage shed set to rear.” Price guide: €65,000 ono to sell. To arrange for further details contact Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 6626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www. propertypartners.ie.

PROPERTY SALES

●

LETTINGS ● VALUATIONS

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

NEW TO THE MARKET 21 FOREST VIEW, BALLYGAR, CO. GALWAY

• Attractive three bedroom bungalow detached residence • Within walking distance of all amenities • Low maintenance property with spacious living accommodation • Viewing comes highly recommended • Price Region: €105,000 For further details and viewing contact the office on 090-6663700

HAVE YOU GOT LAND TO LEASE?

LANDS FOR FORESTRY WANTED We have two clients with funds in place looking for lands for planting Client 1: Requires 35-40 acres Client 2: Requires 25-30 acres All locations considered Enquiries in confidence to Ivan on 086-8985013

FORTHCOMING AUCTION

New To the Market – Superb 4 Bedroom Bungalow

AGHAGOWER, CASTLECOOTE, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON

Superb 4 bedroom bungalow finished to the highest standard with no expense spared. This residence is situated 3 miles from the village of Castlecoote being 7 miles from Roscommon Town in a quiet country setting. The site has large landscape grounds with a tarmac drive along with a garage and fuel store This residence comprises an entrance porch and entrance hallway, open plan kitchen/dining room with conservatory off, Utility, 4 large bedrooms (2 Ensuite) and a family bathroom. The attic is floored and fitted with 3 Velux windows and can be converted. Among the many extras are duel central heating and a private well and complete filtration system. Price Region: €165,000

New To the Market – C. 16 Acres of Land With gallop CLOVERHILL, ROSCOMMON, CO ROSCOMMON Circa 16 Acres of prime limestone land located just outside Roscommon town the Racecourse Road. The said lands are laid out in one lot and incorporate circa 5 furlong excellent uphill sand gallop with outstanding views of the surrounding countryside. There is potential to build a residence and stables on the said lands as subject to planning permission.

Connaughton Auctioneers are holding a Monster Property Auction in April. If you want to list your property or require further information contact the office on 090-6663700

Connaughton Auctioneers have orders from interested farmers looking for lands to let on a long or short term basis. All locations and parcel sizes considered. If you have any queries about letting your land, contact the office today and Ivan will answer any questions/ information you require

Connaughton Auctioneers – the professionals in Land Letting. CALL 090-6663700 TODAY

New To the Market – C. 11 ACRES KNOCKCROGHERY VILLAGE, CO ROSCOMMON Circa 11-acres agricultural lands located in Knockcroghery Village on the main Roscommon/Athlone road. The said lands hold obvious future development potential subject to planning permission. Knockcroghery which is situated on the N61 four miles from Roscommon Town and only ten miles from Athlone Town Centre is a highly desirable and sought after residential location.

Church Street, Roscommon town, CO. ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 6627878 FAX: 090 6627877 E-mail info@oates.ie Website: www.oates.ie

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

Pippa Pop-Ins Charity Shop will open on the 28th, 29th, and 30th of April in aid of Roscommon Cancer Support Centre. If you would like to donate any good-quality, pre-loved kids and infant clothes, toys and other items which are suitable for handing down to another child please contact us at 090 6625898 or email us at info@ vitahouse.org.

Ballinasloe Darkness Into Light set for May Ballinasloe Darkness Into Light 2016 will take place on Saturday, May 7th. After the huge success of last year, this year’s walk hopes to be bigger and better. The D.I.L. fundraiser for Pieta House is key to keeping Pieta House up and running, providing the care and counselling for anyone in need. Ballinasloe will play host this year to the Galway City and County D.I.L. launch with representatives visiting from Galway City, Kinvara, Ballygar, Tuam, An Cheathrú Rua, Clifden, The Aran Islands and Inishbofin. The launch takes place on Friday, 11th March at 7.30 pm in the Shearwater Hotel, Ballinasloe. Joan Freeman, founder of Pieta House will attend as guest speaker along with some other surprise celebrities. For more information contact: 085-1237878 or visit ballinasloedil@gmail. com.

Heritage Group calling all quiz enthusiasts! Athleague/Fuerty Heritage Group are holding a table quiz which will take place in The Bridge House, Athleague on Friday, 4th March at 9 pm. Entries are €40 for a table of four. The group hopes to raise enough money for equipment to enable them to record and safely store data, photos and memorabilia relating to the history of the area, which they aim to then make accessible to the public.

Industrial & Agricultural Show AGM The Roscommon Industrial & Agricultural Show Society will hold their AGM on Friday, 4th March in Hannon’s Hotel at 9.30 pm. Thanks to all our sponsors for their generosity in 2015. Everyone welcome. Please contact Christy on 086-2209338 if you require any further information.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

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

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

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

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

Mulit-national company in talks about Carrick move < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A large multinational company is in talks about moving some of their business to Carrick-on-Shannon, with the prospect of up to 300 jobs. The Leitrim Observer reported this week that a wellknown international company had entered negotiations to locate their business in the MBNA building in the Leitrim county town. Discussions could take months before agreement is reached. Efforts have been ongoing to find a replacement business since MBNA left Carrick-on-Shannon completely in November 2014, with the loss of 200 jobs. At its peak, the company employed up to 1,500 people in the premises and its move triggered Carrick’s growth over the past decade, but the state-of-the-art building has been lying largely idle over the past 18 months.

stores honoured with SPAR 5 awards Two Roscommon SPAR and SPAR Express stores were awarded one of retail’s highest honours at the annual SPAR 5 Star Awards. SPAR retailers from across Ireland attended the awards ceremony which was held at Killashee House, Co. Kildare and hosted by BWG Foods, owners and operators of the brand in Ireland.

Pictured at the annual SPAR 5 Star Awards in Killashee House Hotel, Kildare were Kevin McCabe, Patsy Bell, SPAR Express Corrib Oil Roscommon and Paul Martin, SPAR Retail Operations Advisor. Picture Colm Mahady / Fennell Photography

The winners excelled in all areas of inspection, displaying exemplary standards across their stores.193 stores received 5 Star Awards including special group of 101 stores which received recognition for winning 5 Star Awards for five years in a row including SPAR Corrib Oil, Castlerea and SPAR Express, Racecourse Road, Roscommon.

Pictured (right) at the annual SPAR 5 Star Awards in Killashee House Hotel, Kildare were Paddy Smyth, Michelle Connelly, SPAR Corrib Oil Castlerea and Paul Martin, SPAR Retail Operations Advisor. Picture Colm Mahady / Fennell Photography

Roscommon retailers to Go Green ‘Roscommon’s favourite local broadband provider’ From

€25/month

Real Broadband for Real Users

Fast, reliable, friendly

Contact Tonya on 0906634319 sales@eurona-brisknet.ie www.mybroadband.ie

Two Roscommon retail outlets are seeking the public’s vote to help them win the Go Green with Green Angel Skincare Challenge – a nationwide search to find Ireland’s most creative shop window. McGuinness Totalhealth Pharmacy, Roscommon town and Molloy’s Lifestyle Pharmacy, Harrison Centre, Roscommon town are registered for the public vote, which closes on Monday, March 14th. The Guaranteed Irish backed competition challenges Green Angel stockists to produce the country’s best St. Patrick’s Day-themed window featuring the successful Irish skincare brand. The competition was launched by former Miss Ireland Aoife Walsh and Gerhard Scully, who was the iconic window dresser at Clery’s department store in Dublin for 25 years. “There are two key components to a good window – individuality and creativity,” said Gerhard. “People need to bring their own things into a window display, and make it in their own image almost.

“It should be something that they have designed themselves, put together themselves and shown that bit of love to.” All of the entrants’ pictures will be posted on the Green Angel Skincare

Facebook page where the public can vote for their favourite store and staff to win valuable prizes plus a €1,000 contribution to a charity of their choice sponsored by Guaranteed Irish. And one lucky voter

in each county will win a luxury hamper of Green Angel products. Green Angel stockists can still register for the competition by emailing customerservice@greenangel.ie or phoning 01 4124900.

Aoife Walsh with Window Doctor and former Clerys Window Dresser, Gerhard Scully, pictured at the launch of the Go Green with Green Angel Skincare Challenge – a Guaranteed Irishbacked nationwide search to find the most creative window featuring the successful Irish skincare brand. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016

• Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

Deputy Eugene Murphy celebates with supporters, family members and friends at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon on Saturday night. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Murphy denies Hopkins in tight ﬁnish Stunning vote for Naughten < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Outgoing Independent TDs Denis Naughten and Michael Fitzmaurice, and Fianna Fáil councillor Eugene Murphy, have been elected to represent the Roscommon-Galway constituency in the Dáil for the next five years. They secured the three seats on offer in the new constituency, which includes all of Co. Roscommon and a large portion of east Galway, in last weekend’s General Election. There was a high turnout of 71.6 per cent, with 45,995 of the eligible electorate of 64,635 casting their votes. The total valid poll was 45,995, with 315 spoilt votes. Deputy Naughten was elected on the first count: he comfortably surpassed the quota of 11,421, securing 13,936 first preference votes. Deputy Fitzmaurice was elected on the sixth count. He amassed 9,750 first preference votes but, by the sixth count, his total had risen to 11,630. He was brought over the quota by transfers from Thomas D Fallon (Independent), Tony Coleman (Independent), Anne Farrell (Renua Ireland) and

Eddie Conroy (People Before Profit-Anti-Austerity Alliance). The battle for the third seat was a much closer affair, however. After the first count, just one vote separated Fianna Fáil councillor Eugene Murphy and Fine Gael councillor Maura Hopkins, with 6,813 and 6,812 respectively. By the time the seventh count was declared, Cllr. Hopkins had built up a lead of 823 votes over Cllr. Murphy. The elimination at that point of Fianna Fáil’s Shane Curran and Sinn Féin’s Claire Kerrane proved crucial. Their elimination meant that 6,215 transfers were thrown into the mix. Cllr. Murphy secured the lion’s share of them – 2,539 to Cllr. Hopkins’ 925 – which saw him not only eliminate the deficit, but pull 791 ahead. That saw him elected, with 10,104, without reaching the quota, while Cllr. Hopkins finished with 9,313. Ultimately, Mr. Curran, his Fianna Fáil running mate, helped to propel Cllr. Murphy over the line. Fianna Fáil are saying that 1,599 of Mr. Curran’s 2,389 transfers went to him, while the remaining 940 came from Ms. Kerrane.

Deputy Denis Naughten celebates with supporters, family members and friends at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon on Saturday night. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice celebates with supporters, family members and friends at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon on Saturday night. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment Total Poll

45,995/71.6% turnout

Spoilt Votes

315

Total Valid Poll

45,680

Quota

11,421

2nd count - the distribution of Deputy Naughten’s surplus 3rd count - the distribution of Mr Fallon’s votes 4th count - the distribution of Mr Coleman and Ms Hennessy’s votes 5th count - the distribution of Ms Farrell’s votes 7th count - the distribution of Mr Kelly’s votes 8th count - the distribution Mr Curran and Ms Kerrane’s votes

Roscommon–Galway Election Results

Candidate

First Count

Second Count

Third Count

Fourth Count

Fifth Count

Coleman Independent

214

229 (+15)

237 (+8) Excluded

Conroy Independent

982

1,008 (+26)

1,015 (+7)

1,146 (+131)

1,172 (+26) Excluded

Curran Fianna Fail

2,006

2,164 (+158)

2,168 (+4)

2,198 (+30)

Fallon Independent

88 (+13) Excluded

Farrell Renua

520

577 (+57)

580 (+3)

616 (+36) Excluded

Fitzmaurice Independent

9,750

10,964 (+1,214)

10,996 (+2)

Hennessy Green Party

286

305 (+19)

307 (+2) Excluded

Hopkins Fine Gael

6,812

7,317 (+505)

Kelly Labour

1,211

Kerrane Sinn Fein

Denis Naughten Michael Fitzmaurice Eugene Murphy Maura Hopkins Clare Kerrane Shane Curran John Kelly Eddie Conroy Anne Farrell Miriam Hennessy Tony Coleman Thomas Fallon

30.51% 21.34% 14.91% 14.91% 6.73% 4.39% 2.65% 2.15% 1.14% 0.63% 0.47% 0.16%

Sixth Count

Seventh Count

2,240 (+42)

2,294 (+54)

2,389 (+95) Excluded

11,073 (+77)

11,275 (+202)

11,630 (+355) Elected

7,324 (+7)

7,428 (+104)

7,555 (+127)

7,698 (+143)

1,254 (+43)

1,258 (+4)

1,320 (+62)

1,373 (+53)

1,442 (+69) Excluded

3,075

3,196 (+121)

3,207 (+11)

3,256 (+49)

3,301 (+45)

3,591 (+290)

3,826 (+235) Excluded

Murphy Fianna Fail

6,813

7,157 (+344)

7,162 (+5)

7,192 (+30)

7,260 (+68)

7,368 (+108)

7,565 (+197)

10,104 (+2539) Elected

Naughten Independent

13936 Elected 369

374 (+5)

399 (+25)

452 (+53)

605 (+153)

830 (+225)

3,581 (+2751)

Non-transferable

8,388 (+690)

Eighth Count

9,313 (+925)

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

‘It’s a great day… very, very sweet’ Eugene’s emotional success after 31 years in politics < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

At 3 am last Sunday, there were ecstatic scenes in the Hyde Centre, Roscommon town. The result had not yet been declared, but the supporters of Eugene Murphy, a councillor at the time, had established that the Fianna Fáil man was set to overhaul Fine Gael’s Maura Hopkins and be elected as a TD. Going into the count, Cllr. Hopkins was leading her rival by 823 votes, but the elimination of Shane Curran, Fianna Fáil’s other candidate, and Sinn Féin’s Claire Kerrane, would see that deficit wiped out. The Murphy camp had established that 1,599 of Mr Curran’s 2,389 transfers would go their way, while so would 940 of Ms Kerrane’s 3,826. And so, some minutes before the deputy returning officer, Mary Raftery, had taken to the stage, the Murphy celebrations began. Surrounded by his wife Linda, son, Rian (12), and his daughter, Nadine (17), Cllr. Murphy was a picture of elation. When Ms. Raftery took to the podium to confirm the result – that Cllr. Murphy had beaten Cllr. Hopkins by 791 votes – even more raucous celebrations took place. After 30 years’ trying, Cllr. Murphy had finally been crowned a deputy. First elected a councillor in 1985, he had tried continually to become a TD over the following years, but never had the support of the Fianna Fáil members, let alone the electorate. Last Sunday, his day of destiny finally came.

GROUP HUG ... Deputy Eugene Murphy surrounded by his wife Linda, son, Rian (12), and his daughter, Nadine (17). Picture: Andrew Fox.

“It’s a great day – very, very sweet. It’s 3.15 in the morning, but I think the adrenalin will flow for another couple of days,” said the now Deputy Murphy, shortly after the result was declared. “It’s a great victory for the people of Roscommon-Galway. It’s a great victory for the grassroots of Fianna Fáil and I am so thankful. To come out here with almost 7,000 No. 1 votes

P. Burke, Cllr. Paddy Kilduff, James Campbell, Deputy Eugene Murphy and Martin Connaughton pictured at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox.

and then get the transfer I did, it’s extraordinary.” Given that he was repeatedly unsuccessful in Fianna Fáil selection conventions, he admitted that he doubted that his long-held dream would ever be realised. “In recent years, I was saying: ‘Will it ever happen?’” he said. “But I am quite a resilient person. I keep going when others might not keep going.

“But I think it shows the importance of having a bit of fight in you.” Deputy Murphy had to show that fight again earlier this month when Fianna Fáil enraged him by adding Mr. Curran to its ticket in the constituency, seemingly jeopardising his chances. Ultimately, though, the former Roscommon GAA goalkeeper helped him to get elected, a point he accepted afterwards. “Without that transfer, and of course the transfer that came from the Sinn Féin candidate, Claire Kerrane, I would not have got over the line, in my view,” said Deputy Murphy, from Scramogue, near Strokestown. “I would have been close, but maybe I wouldn’t have got over the line, so I am really grateful for that transfer of votes.” Last weekend was also a great day for Fianna Fáil, who had been without a TD in Roscommon since 2011. “It’s the 90th anniversary of Fianna Fáil; it’s the 100th anniversary of The Rising; and I think that the party are rejuvenated by this,” said Deputy Murphy. He said that, on the canvass trail, he had been struck by the fact that many people in the constituency felt “neglected”. “We, the politicians, think we know of that neglect, but really until you go on a canvass, you don’t know the full extent of the difficulties we have in a constituency like this – a complete lack of jobs,” he said. He said that he would seek to address the many issues in Roscommon and east Galway during his term as a TD.

Cllr. Paddy Kilduff, Deputy Eugene Murphy, P. Burke and Senator Terry Leyden pictured at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox.

“Civil War politics still has a big grip!” < DAN DOONER

Tony Coleman was in philosophical mood after taking 237 votes overall (214 in the first count) across the constituency. “It is what it is. Candidates on a limited budget can’t compete with the major parties, with taxpayers’ money. Civil War politics still has a big grip. Some people go into polling stations and they do want change but then see the party logo on the ballot paper and think ‘What would my grandfather have done?’” Coleman concluded by focusing on the future. “I’ll probably go in the local elections, keep my name out there and be more proactive next time! “I’d like to thank everyone who voted for me, I probably entered too late but the reason I went in remains; there’s a lot to be done in Roscommon.” He did enjoy at least some success elsewhere however. “I was born in Leicester and my team, Leicester City, won today!”

‘I wanted people to think Green’ – Hennessy < DAN DOONER

“I knew coming into this that I had no real chance, historically the Green Party hasn’t done well in this area. I feel that it was important to run as I fully believe in Green Party policies.” Miriam Hennessy provided an honest assessment of her 286 first preference votes in the General Election. The Green Party candidate still feels that her party’s policies are important and that steps need to be taken to reduce damage caused by climate change. She added: “It’s still important that we start taking steps now, I just wanted people to think more about green issues.” Hennessy said she understood why the people of Roscommon/Galway had chosen two Independents last weekend. “I was listening to the two Independents, they are very articulate and have been out working very hard so it’s no surprise that the people have chosen them.” Asked whether she would consider running again in the future, Ms. Hennessy didn’t seem too disheartened by last weekend’s results. “I would certainly consider running again in future.”

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

HERE’S LOOKING AT YOU KID! Senator Terry Leyden watches as Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice leaves the Hyde Centre following the formal declaration. Picture: Andrew Fox

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice and his wife, Maria. Picture: Andrew Fox

‘People are sick of promises’ – ‘blunt’ Fitz storms back < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Re-elected Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has hit back at Senator John Kelly’s dismissive comments about Independents. After the senator was eliminated after receiving just 1,211 first-preference votes in last weekend’s General Election, he repeated his comments about non-party representatives. “You won’t achieve anything as an Independent,” Senator Kelly said. Deputy Fitzmaurice was asked about the remarks after he was elected on the sixth count after surpassing the quota – 11,421 – with 11,630 votes. Between them, Independent TDs Michael Fitzmaurice and Denis

Naughten, who topped the poll, secured over 51 per cent of the first preference votes in the RoscommonGalway constituency in the General Election. “The people have spoken today, so we must have achieved something,” said Deputy Fitzmaurice, before adding sharply: “John has gone home; Michael is still here; Denis is still here. “So, obviously, we must be doing something right because people don’t vote for you if you are not achieving.” While Deputy Fitzmaurice did not, as many predicted he would, top the poll, his percentage of the first preference votes actually increased from the Roscommon-South Leitrim

by-election in October 2014. On that occasion, which resulted in him securing a Dáil seat for the first time, he secured 18.7 per cent; this time, his share rose to 21.3 per cent. “Any day that you get elected in a General Election or a by-election is a good day,” said Deputy Fitzmaurice. “I thank the people who came out and gave me the guts of 10,000 No. 1 votes.” Last weekend’s election saw further growth of the Independent vote in the Roscommon region. Deputy Fitzmaurice said that that was because of the electorate’s disillusionment with the mainstream parties. “Down through the years, in the west of Ireland, a lot of politicians have

promised so much and delivered so little,” he said. “I think the people are sick of promises. They want politicians to be upright and forthright with them. I am a pretty straightforward politician. I am blunt, but I think that’s what people want: a straight out bluntless to tell whether it can or cannot be done. I don’t just say something for the sake of saying it.” The election was also a success for the Independent Alliance, the political grouping that Deputy Fitzmaurice helped to found last year. They secured six seats, and Deputy Fitzmaurice was especially pleased that two local candidates were elected for the first time: Kevin ‘Boxer’

Moran in Longford-Westmeath and Seán Canney in Galway East. The Independent Alliance could yet have a say in the formation of the government, something Deputy Fitzmaurice said that he was open too. “I have no fear of being in government, if the opportunity arises and if a proper programme for government can be formed,” he said. “People vote for you to do the best you can for them and, if that opportunity comes, we won’t shy away from it.” He said that, whether he was in opposition or government, his priorities over the next five years would be health and “rural Ireland, full stop”.

“We’ll see how the two boys get on in bed together!” < DAN DOONER

Anne Farrell was “happy that almost 500 people decided to put number 1” beside her name. She did admit that her expectations had been greater going into the count and that she still believed in Renua and what the party was trying to achieve. “I believed in this project and still do. I was getting a really good response and I did expect more, but I’m very grateful,” she said. When asked about Renua’s policies, she was adamant that her party had come into the election with something the other parties didn’t possess.

“When we launched in March there was a policy document which was worked on. Other parties didn’t have policies coming into this. “Renua weren’t protesting, they were standing on policies too. We knew exactly where we were going,” she continued. Asked about the launch of Renua as a party and the lack of subsequent momentum, Farrell said: “In the early days we just didn’t have the punchline!” It has since transpired that Renua failed to win a single seat and party leader, Lucinda Creighton, lost her seat in Dublin SouthEast. Anne Farrell was still a firm fan of the Claremorris woman but did concede that

without Lucinda she would need to consider her own future. “Lucinda Creighton is a brilliant leader, she’s young, vibrant and energetic. I’ll be taking more stock with Lucinda out of the picture.” When asked about her own future, Farrell said that a lot depended on the new Dáil. “We’ll reflect, regroup and see how the two boys (Fine Gael and Fianna Fail) get on in bed together.” She refused to comment on whether or not she’d run in council elections. On Sunday night, her team was out taking down posters in Roscommon. Time will tell whether they’ll be seen in the constituency again.

Anne Farrell and Rhona Farrell pictured at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon last Saturday. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

Denis – ‘My proudest day’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Denis Naughten described last Saturday as the proudest day of his life after dominating the Roscommon-Galway constituency in the General Election. The outgoing Independent TD secured 13,936 first-preference votes, amounting to 30.3 per cent of the 45,680 valid votes that were cast. He easily surpassed the quota – 11,421 – on the first count and was deemed elected. Deputy Naughten has held a seat in the Dáil since he was first elected as a 24-year-old in 1997, but this represented by far his best performance. Standing as an Independent for the first time, he increased his share of the vote by over ten percentage points, having received 19.6 per cent under the Fine Gael banner in 2011. He also topped the poll on this occasion. “This is by far the proudest day of my life,” said a euphoric Deputy Naughten. “The vote that I received from the people of Roscommon and Galway, right from Cloontuskert in the south of this constituency to Ballyfarnon in the north of this constituency, is extremely humbling.” The result represented an endorsement of the stance Deputy Naughten took in 2011, when he left Fine Gael over the closure of the Accident and Emergency Unit at Roscommon Hospital. He revealed last weekend that he almost quit politics at that time, only for a constituent to convince him to change his mind. “I remember four and a half years ago, after a particular vote in Leinster House, I genuinely believed I was going to pack in politics,” he said. “I remember getting a phone call from a very elderly woman at The Square in Ballaghaderreen – the late Peggy Mannion – and she convinced me there was a career in politics for me, and thanks to her encouragement, I stuck with it. “It has been proven right today by the near 14,000 people who came out and cast their No. 1 vote for me.” Deputy Naughten said that although he was confident that he would top the poll, he did not expect such a resounding vote. “We felt that it would be hard for any other candidate to come close to us, but I never thought I would get the vote I got. I never thought I would have a surplus, never mind a surplus of 2,500,” he said.

“It is a phenomenal result.” Deputy Naughten ran a very intense election campaign, led by his Director of Elections, Cllr. Laurence Fallon. His team canvassed 85 per cent of the houses in the constituency in 23 days, he said. He said that his stance over Roscommon Hospital certainly bolstered his vote, but that it was not the sole factor. “There are a number of things in relation to that vote. One of them is that I think there is a lot of anger out there in relation to the promises that were made at the last election, and were gone back on,” he said. “I think, secondly, people are very sore in relation to our health services. “I think, as well as that, people were angry in relation to the slogan ‘Keep the Recovery Going’, when we haven’t seen it in Roscommon or Galway.” In seeking a return to office, Fine Gael and Labour based their campaign on that message. They argued that they had brought the country from economic turmoil in 2011 to a far more stable position. However, the electorate firmly rejected a return of the Coalition. Given that, Deputy Naughten said that there was a distinct possibility that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael would break with transition to form the next government, but added: “I personally wouldn’t like to see it.” In the event that such a coalition does not materialise, Independents such as Deputy Naughten could be called upon to support a Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael-led government. He said that he was open to doing so. “I am quite prepared to go down and do a deal with whoever, whether it is Micheál Martin or Enda Kenny after the election, if it is in the interests of this constituency and of the issues that I have been raising nationally,” he said. Deputy Naughten said that he would not be setting any preconditions in such negotiations, but that there were many issues that needed to be addressed. “I want to see investment in our emergency services in Roscommon, in our ambulance services and in Portiuncula (Hospital, Ballinasloe),” he said. He said that he also wanted to see investment in job creation and for essential infrastructure, such as broadband and roads, to be improved.

A delighted Deputy Denis Naughten pictured with his wife Mary at the Hyde Centre on Saturday night. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Curran delighted his transfers ‘saved’ day for FF < DAN DOONER

Shane Curran congratulates Deputy Eugene Murphy. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Shane Curran believes the big issue in Roscommon and Galway is job creation and not the A&E Unit which has created so many headlines since the last election in 2011. He said: “I hope that the three candidates (TDs) hone in on jobs and getting the economy here working and park aside a lot of the things that we now know aren’t important. The hospital is no longer a redline issue for any of the politicians – really and truly, it’s a red herring.” He also claimed an invaluable assist for team Fianna Fáil.

“When I was given the jersey to play for Fianna Fáil three weeks ago…it looks like I’m going to play a significant part in getting a Fianna Fáil candidate elected”, he said shortly before Eugene Murphy was elected. Speaking about his own performance in obtaining just over 2,000 first preference votes, Curran said: “I was (satisfied) because I had two weeks basically. When you take the first week out between organisational work and only getting canvass cards ten days ago, it’s 1,000 votes a week when you put it that way.” He continued: “Obviously the party structure on the ground was behind

Eugene, seven or eight councillors behind him, and that’s totally acceptable and I understand that.” He admitted that he felt there was an opportunity to grab a seat for himself. “It was put to me simply that there was an opportunity for me to win the seat and that’s why you go.” As for future political aspirations and running in any upcoming elections, Curran seemed encouraged by the reception he received over the last few weeks. “I wouldn’t rule it out. I am comforted by the tremendous reaction of how my supporters have been received and how they worked on the doorsteps.”

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

Kelly set to bow out < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Senator John Kelly has said that he intends quitting politics after his deeply disappointing performance in last weekend’s General Election. The Ballaghaderreen resident, standing for the Labour Party, received only 1,211 first-preference votes and was eliminated on the sixth count, by which stage his tally had risen to 1,442 through transfers. Of the four Dáil elections that he has contested, it was by far his worst showing: in the 2007 and ’11 general elections, he amassed 4,539 and 4,455 first-preferences respectively, and 2,037 in the 2014 by-election. After three terms as a councillor and one a Senator, the 56-year-old is now on the brink of ending his political career. Asked what the future held for him, he said: “I probably will just stay out of politics altogether. “I will do out my time in the Seanad, which is another two months. I will see if there is a possi-

bly of getting back into it. If there is, I might have a go at it. If there isn’t, I’m gone.” Senator Kelly said he didn’t fancy his chances of re-election to the Upper House, not least because of Labour’s dismal showing in the election. “I don’t think it’s going to be an option because I can see how I can get a nomination, considering the casulties we had, with ministers losing their seats,” he said. “It will be the national executive who will decide who will get the run for the Seanad, and I won’t be on the top of the list, not at all. I would be so far down it that I wouldn’t be at the races at all.” He said that he enjoyed his time in politics. “I loved solving problems that nobody else elected could solve. I helped thousands of people who had difficulties, and I delivered for the constituency, having not even been elected by this constituency,” he said. Senator Kelly’s defeat reflected Labour’s performance nationwide, which saw their number of

Michael Spellman and John Kelly pictured at the Hyde Centre on Saturday. Picture: Andrew Fox.

TDs collapse. He said that said he was “disappointed, but not surprised” by his vote. “It was always going to be an uphill battle for me,” he said. “I ran on the basis of my record of achievement in five years in Seanad Éireann. I did an awful lot.

“I was hoping that that would stand to me; it obviously didn’t. It didn’t matter whether I achieved anything or not apparently now at this stage.” But he added: “It’s a weight off my shoulders. I don’t have to be answering the phone on a Monday morning, solving everybody’s problem.”

A very steady start for Eddie! < DAN DOONER

Boyle native, Eddie Conroy, was “delighted” with his impressive showing in Roscommon/Galway, taking 982 first preference votes. “I’m delighted with the support and the great start to my career. It’s a great platform and gives me great confidence going forward,” he said. The People Before Profit Anti-Austerity Alliance candidate went on to highlight his reasons for running. “Disappointment with established parties is the main reason. There needs to be a lot more options so you can pick who suits you best. People are fed up and want someone who’ll look after them. You would have to think that the people of Roscommon-east

Galway are disillusioned with the established parties. The two Independents have taken a massive vote and the smaller parties have taken a good vote.” In terms of the reception at doors and during the campaign, Conroy was highly encouraged. “People wanted to see change. They want to see jobs, more Gardaí, and improvements in the health service. There is rural decline, we have been left behind from start to finish. We missed out on all those 19,000 IDA jobs. We got two, which is unbelievable really.” Looking to the future, Conroy believes more needs to be done in the constituency and across the country as a whole. “Public investment is the way forward. It was always going to be tough but we have to start somewhere.”

He went on to confirm that this was merely the beginning in his own career. “I’m hoping to my best for the people of Roscommon in the next couple of years and without a doubt I can tell you here and now – I will be running in the local elections.” When asked whether Ireland was finished as a two and a half party system, Conroy had this to say. “It would appear so and we are delighted to see it. Whoever gets in has a responsibility to start looking after people and – again – put people first. I think that there is a serious chance, within the next decade, of a completely Left government running this country, like Labour in England. Slowly but surely, the message is getting out there that the Left are not dangerous.” Thomas D Fallon pictured with his daughter Chloe at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox.

“People are moving away from parties” < DAN DOONER

Joe Conroy, Trevor Conroy, John Connelly, Eddie Conroy and Sharon Conroy pictured at the Hyde Centre. Picture: Andrew Fox

Thomas D Fallon said that he would “keep his hand in” with regard to politics in the constituency, despite attracting just 75 first preference votes in the General Election. He said that it was difficult to stage a “no poster campaign” and added that funding was also hard to come by. However he felt that voters are moving towards independent candidates. “I wasn’t expecting an overwhelming result. As long as I change some people’s minds…three independents (in the future) will do a lot better for Roscommon.” He concluded: “The people are speaking and they’re moving away from the parties. There was a poll carried out recently in a local school and the youth are all looking to Independents.”

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

‘Life is full of twists and turns’ – Maura < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The closure of the Accident and Emergency Unit (A&E) at Roscommon Hospital was largely the cause of Fine Gael’s disappointing performance in the Roscommon-Galway constituency, former TD Frank

Feighan has said. In the 2011 General Election, the party secured a total of 38.5 first-preference votes in the Roscommon-South Leitrim, which was comfortably enough to see Frank Feighan and Denis Naughten elected. However, last weekend they

secured less than 15 per cent of the first-preference votes in the new three-seat constituency – and ended up with no seat. Cllr. Maura Hopkins did, though, remain in contention until the eighth count, when she lost to Cllr. Eugene Murphy on transfers.

Frank Feighan and Maura Hopkins pictured at the Hyde Centre on Saturday last. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Going into that count, she was 823 votes ahead of her Fianna Fáil rival, but the elimination of Shane Curran, his party colleague, and Sinn Féin’s Claire Kerrane, resulted in Cllr. Murphy winning by 791 votes. Mr. Feighan accepted that the vast reduction in Fine Gael’s support in the constituency was “very much a disappointment”, which he traced back to the closure of the A&E in June 2011. “I think there is certainly a fall-out from this hospital. The hospital had a contagion effect: it permeated into virtually every aspect of life in Roscommon,” said Mr. Feighan, who opted not to seek re-election. “I think the government parties had a difficult challenge after seven years of very difficult times in the country. “I think the A&E in Roscommon certainly didn’t help the situation either.” Cllr. Hopkins was devastated by her defeat. She was on the brink of tears – so, too, were her supporters – as she addressed the crowd in the Hyde Centre after the results were officially declared. “Obviously, I am disappointed with the result. I am disappointed that I wasn’t able to deliver, but life, as politics is, is

BEST OF LUCK ... Maura Hopkins congratultes Eugene Murphy at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon last Saturday. Picture: Andrew Fox.

full of twists and turns, ups and downs, and I take this defeat as it is,” she said. She thanked her campaign team who helped her over the campaign, and said that she looked forward to continuing her role as a councillor. “I wish to our newly-elected representatives – Denis Naughten, Michael Fitzmaurice and Eugene Murphy – all the very best,” she said. “And I look forward to working with them in ensuring that Roscommon and Galway get their fair in terms of service provision, and also that we see greater opportunities for younger people back in this region.” Cllr. Hopkins did not say whether she would seek to con-

test a future General Election and was too upset to conduct media interviews. Highly regarded within Fine Gael, the Ballaghaderreen woman, who is 31, also contested the RoscommonSouth Leitrim by-election in 2014. She finished third on that occasion and achieved 16.8 first-preference votes. However, her vote fell by one percentage point last weekend, when she was widely tipped to secure the third seat. Last September she took leave from her job as an occupational therapist in St James’s Hospital, Dublin, to campaign. It is not known if she will vie for in a seat in the Seanad in the coming weeks.

Kerrane has Council in sights – and maybe Seanad! < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Sinn Féin’s Claire Kerrane has set her sights firmly on a council seat in the local elections in three years’ time after a positive politicial debut in last weekend’s General Election. The Ballaghaderreen woman, who is only 23, secured 3,075 first preference votes and finished in fifth place. She was eliminated on the seventh count, by which stage she had amassed 3,826 votes. Ms. Kerrane was tipped for an even better performance, but she said that she was “very, very happy” with the outcome. “It was always a battle from the start. Roscommon is Fine Gael/Fianna Fáil territory. Sinn Féin never do that well in Co. Roscommon and we knew that, and to hit 3,000 votes, we are delighted,” she said. Ms. Kerrane pledged to contest future elections. It is widely expected that Cllr. Michael Mulligan, also from Ballaghaderreen, will retire from politics at the 2019 local

Sinn Féin’s Clare Kerrane pictured with supporters and family members at the Hyde Centre last Saturday evening. Picture: Andrew Fox.

elections and that Ms. Kerrane will stand instead for Sinn Féin in the Boyle Municipal District. Ms. Kerrane said: “If Michael is going to move on at that stage, it probably would be me who would be in a prime

position to do that. If he is happy for that to happen, yes, absolutely, I would be happy to do that.” There is also speculation that Sinn Féin will nominate Ms. Kerrane to run for a Seanad

seat in the coming weeks, and she certainly did not rule it out. “It came up some time ago. The main reason it was mentioned was because, when we look at the west, Sinn Féin have a number of TDs in all of the

counties and, in Roscommon, they just haven’t,” she said. “It’s nearly a blackspot really in the west and we do need to do something with Sinn Féin in Roscommon to lift it up a little bit, so it will be an option.”

In percentage terms, Sinn Féin’s vote in RoscommonGalway last weekend was significantly down on the Roscommon-South Leitrim by-election in October 2014. On that occasion, Cllr. Martin Kenny from Leitrim achieved 17.7 per cent (5,906) of the first preferences, while Ms. Kerrane received 6.75 (3,075). However, Cllr. Mulligan said that last weekend’s showing represented a breakthrough for the party in Co. Roscommon. “Claire Kerrane put in a great effort. She came from nowhere to take 3,075 No. 1 votes,” he said. “It was the biggest vote that has been got by Sinn Féin in Co. Roscommon, even higher than what Martin Kenny got in the last election. Martin Kenny got most of his votes in Leitrim.” Cllr. Kenny, from Ballinamore, had a breakthrough himself last weekend, finally securing a Dáil seat, in the new SligoLeitrim constituency.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

Twitter, tallies, tension and triumph ELECTION DIARY Seamus Duke

ust past 8 am on Saturday morning last there were at least 100 people around the Dr Hyde Park GAA Centre in preparation for the count. The people had spoken. The 132 boxes were piled up and ready to go. Returning Officer Mary Raftery arrived and soon we were all piling in. Counters, and count staff, tallymen and party people, and of course the media. I have covered at least 10 election counts and they have not changed one little bit in terms of how it’s done, but the huge difference nowadays is the proliferation of media. You have local newspapers, local radio, national radio, TG4 and TV3 and RTE TV. But the biggest change of all now is that you have Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and all the other instant media fixes, and there were people there to keep the nation informed as to who was doing what in the constituency of Roscommon-Galway. I counted 28 laptops in operation at one stage! Ciaran Mullooly was back on familiar ground, covering the count for RTE TV. Shannonside, Ros FM, Galway Bay FM, Mid-West, Radio na Gaeltachta, TV3 and Newstalk were also there as were all the local newspapers in Roscommon and Galway. Even the Western People were represented. Ballaghaderreen man Patsy McGarry of the Irish Times also took up residence for the day. Anyone who knows the stage at the Hyde Centre will know that it is about the same size as your average living room. Into that small space, representatives of all the above organisations were situated along with a mountain of equipment. Over 50 people working side by side for over 16 hours. It is day that you get to meet people in the industry and have a chance to chat. In the end I was 17 hours there and so were many of my colleagues. From the beginning of the tallies it was clear that Denis Naughten was streaking ahead at the top of the field, with Michael Fitzmaurice coming in second. Two other things then became increasingly clear. The addition of Shane Curran on to the Fianna Fáil ticket did not work for him, but it was to be a huge help to his running mate Eugene Murphy later on in the day. It was also clear that the final seat would be between Fianna Fáil’s Eugene Murphy and Fine Gael’s Maura Hopkins. Candidates were thin on the ground before lunch, however party workers and tally people beat a path to the small office at the front of the building where Tom Leech and his people were providing us all with the eagerly-awaited tally figures. They do a great job. Then at 12.45 we had a final tally. Denis Naughten had turned in a spectacular performance and would be elected on the first count. Michael Fitzmaurice (only 15 months in the Dáil) would be elected comfortably while the battle for the last seat between Eugene Murphy and Maura Hopkins was confirmed.

Cllr. Paddy Kilduff congratulates Deputy Eugene Murphy alongside P. Burke and Senator Terry Leyden. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan was there, Senator Terry Leyden too, and most of the county councillors were also present. As we got close to the announcement of the first count, some votes were rechecked, which held up the process. Ireland were playing England at Twickenham and were not doing well. We could catch a glimpse of the match on a laptop nearby. Frank Feighan, who had decided not to run this time, was there chatting and looking relaxed now that his political career was over. Senator John Kelly and his sister Anne Farrell, both candidates on Friday, were also there. It was not their day. Then the first count. Denis Naughten, his wife Mary, family and supporters arrived in the hall. He was more than 2,000 votes over the quota. He was lifted high, amid cheering and chanting, and then came into the media area where he did numerous interviews, one after another. After 19 years in the Dáil he had pulled off a remarkable victory. He said that it was the responsibility of the politicians to form a Government. “The people will have a strong answer at the doorsteps if we have to go back to the country in a few months time”, he said. Then he was gone – prompting the start of the celebrations.

‘Many years of intense disappointment in politics were washed away and a new era now dawned for Eugene’

Further down the list, there was one solitary vote between Eugene Murphy and Maura Hopkins. The mother of all battles was ahead for them both. Both are fine people. One would go home ecstatic and one would go home devastated. That’s politics. The evening turned into night, Ireland had been beaten and now we were watching Dublin play Monaghan in Croke Park. It looked like a good game too. The big question now was: Would the count be over on Saturday or would we be back on Sunday? I had planned to go to Cork to see Roscommon play the home team on Sunday morning so I was praying for a finish on Saturday night, regardless of at what time. At one stage it looked like we would not get finished, but in the nature of these election counts things speed up as the night goes on. As the candidates with low votes against their names were eliminated, Michael Fitzmaurice edged towards the quota of 11,421. His huge cohort of supporters eventually got into the count centre after a short delay and there were major celebrations as he was elected on the 6th count, following the elimination of Eddie Conroy. Then it was to the media for another exhausting round of interviews with TV, radio and newspapers. “I will be ready to talk to anyone about the formation of a Government, we have to be responsible. We have to do everything in our power to try to form a Government”, he said. This was his third election in the space of 18 months. He turned in a superb performance, attracting almost 10,000 first preference votes after only being a little over a year in the Dáil. Then, more good news. Returning Officer Mary Raftery told us that she would keep counting until the seats were decided. Fianna Fáil people

were becoming increasingly confident as the night went on. It was clear that the votes of Sinn Fein candidate Claire Kerrane and Shane Curran would decide the last seat – and so it transpired. Shane transferred almost 1600 votes to Eugene and when he got over 550 from Claire Kerrane, Maura’s goose was cooked. The announcement was made at 2.37 am. Eugene Murphy was a TD. There were ‘Oles’ sounding out as his supporters and family celebrated wildly. Many years of intense disappointment in politics were washed away and a new era now dawned for Eugene. After 31 years as a county councillor, after many ups and downs in his political life (and there were more downs than ups) he had made it. I worked with Eugene for many years in Shannonside and I know him personally. He had tears in his eyes when he spoke to me in the media area. “I thought my chance had passed to be honest but I said I’d give it one more try.” Politics is a very cruel game but once in a while nice guys actually do win. I have to say I’m thrilled for him. At 3.09 am I left the Hyde Centre exhausted but pleased to have been present as another chapter in the story of the local political world was written. I hope that Denis Naughten and Michael Fitzmaurice don’t mind me saying this, but this was the election in which Eugene Murphy became an overnight success...after 31 years! Oh, and by the way…I got up early on Sunday morning and travelled to Cork. Despite being so tired, it was one of my better decisions. It was a momentous weekend. The big question is: Will we be back counting votes again before the year is out? I hope not!

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

Niall Raftery and Joanne Reynolds pictured welcoming Deputy Eugene Murphy back to Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

Breege Silke pictured welcoming Deputy Eugene Murphy back to Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

Frank O’Connor and Dympna Colley pictured welcoming Deputy Eugene Murphy back to Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

John Beirne and David McMahon pictured welcoming Deputy Eugene Murphy back to Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

Conor Tighe, Jamie Greene and Jack Fallon pictured welcoming Deputy Eugene Murphy back to Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

John, Brendan, Aaron and Melissa Casey and Catherine McDermott pictured welcoming Deputy Eugene Murphy back to Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

Supporters and friends of Deputy Eugene Murphy pictured welcoming Deputy Eugene Murphy back to Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

On Friday 26th February last you went to the polls to cast your votes in the 2016 General Election. I received a mandate from you, the voters, which has successfully elected me to represent you in Dail Eireann. I am truly humbled by the number of votes I received and the trust that the people of Roscommon and Galway have placed in me. I want to sincerely thank my incredible family and friends, all those people who voted for me, actively canvassed and erected posters, and particularly those who gave me encouragement and support throughout the duration of the campaign. I also wish to acknowledge and thank the staff at the polling stations, the local and national media, the returning ofﬁcer Mary Raftery and her staff at the Hyde Centre for their outstanding professionalism and courtesy and ﬁnally the Abbey Hotel for their support and much welcome post election refreshments. At this juncture I wish to sincerely assure all the constituents of the Roscommon/Galway Constituency that I will represent you all to the very best of my ability in Dail Eireann. Go raibh mile maith agaibh go leir,

Deputy Eugene Murphy TD Audrey Foley, Mervyn Foley, Diane Mullooly and John Mullooly pictured welcoming Deputy Eugene Murphy back to Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

Brian Mullooly pictured welcoming Deputy Eugene Murphy back to Strokestown. Picture: Andrew Fox

A ‘Thank You’ message from

DEPUTY EUGENE MURPHY Newly elected Fianna Fail TD for the Roscommon/ Galway Constituency

086 250 7590 cllreugenemurphy@eircom.net Offices: St. Michael’s Square, Ballinasloe The Square, Roscommon Town Elphin Street, Strokestown

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

‘The grand tradition … of making heroes and heartbreak, would continue’ ELECTION (B)LOG PAUL HEALY rooping into the Hyde Centre (which, by the way, is really showing its age!), we were not at all confident that Roscommon (and East Galway) could deliver yet again. Roscommon has a remarkable record of producing fascinating – often truly dramatic – election outcomes. That is seldom much fun for nervous candidates, but it is part of our history, and a tribute to our political astuteness. As an electorate, we are ruthless, unpredictable, unforgiving, willing to reward where applicable…most of all, we are never to be taken for granted. We listen, we watch…and we wait. We wondered about last Friday. We had endured a dull campaign and it looked like we might produce a dull election. But the Hyde count of 2016 was not about to distance itself from history. The grand tradition, with its unapologetic twin effect of making heroes and heartbreak, would continue.

doing well, but not nearly well enough. Michael Fitzmaurice would be fine. Shane Curran would not threaten the goal. The fate of Murphy and Hopkins was an unfolding, interlinked story.

THE SECRETS EMERGE

With the re-election of both Naughten and Fitzmaurice not in doubt, all attention was on the third seat. It was a long day at the count centre. The first count results arrived at about 7 pm. Ireland had just been counted out by England at Twickenham. Spectators who had taken a break in the afternoon began to reappear in the Hyde. So many of them familiar faces. Stalwarts of elections past. Familiar poses adopted. Heads lean over the barrier. Smiles are exchanged with the counters, but the smiles of the party hacks are frowns-in-waiting…should things go wrong. It is both exciting and nerve-wracking. The tallymen and women stare and stroke, tiny pieces of the jigsaw shuffling into place. From early on Saturday, Fianna Fáil were confident that

The big man, Fitzmaurice, won nearly 10,000 number ones and stormed home in what was his first ‘proper’ national election (his breakthrough came in the 2014 by-election). A performance such as Fitzmaurice’s would often have been a worthy headline act. But there were two other big shows in town… I passed the count centre at around 7.50 am (I had dropped family members off at the train station in Athlone, if you must know why I was up so early). At 7.50 am, the secrets of the ballot box were still safe. Soon, cars began to arrive. Counting began at 9 am and shortly afterwards the secrets began to reveal themselves, in instalments. Denis Naughten was rampant. Sinn Fein were

UNTOUCHABLE NAUGHTEN

Naughten didn’t just win the race; he destroyed the field. As noted previously on these pages, his is the slickest, most sophisticated campaign machine. It is a machine. The candidate himself is a force to be reckoned with; the quality of the team behind him makes Naughten untouchable just now in Roscommon politics. No stone was left unturned by the Naughten camp, not unless it made more sense to leave it unturned. From social media to traditional media to interaction with people on the doorsteps, nothing was left to chance. The Naughten camp outfoxed the Fitzmaurice camp – and all others.

LONGEST EVENING OF THEIR LIVES

Deputy Denis Naughten is congratulated by supporrters, friends and family members at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon on Saturday last. Picture: Andrew Fox.

the great coup could happen. Later, there were gasps when the first count revealed Murphy to be a single vote ahead of Hopkins. It must have been agony for Maura and Eugene. The longest evening of their lives. The others, who had the courage to run, were not to last the distance. Claire Kerrane, as an election debutante, did well, winning over 3,000 first preferences. On the evidence of her impact over recent months, Sinn Fein have unearthed a great prospect. John Kelly knew that he was playing into the wind. With due respect to this passionate Roscommon man, wearing the Labour colours doesn’t do it for the electorate here. He’s like a person turning up at a party who is politely refused entry just for producing the wrong pass. I don’t think we’ll see him in the Labour colours again, but who knows, he may line out as an Independent some time

in the future, in some electoral setting. John’s sister, Anne Farrell, running for Renua, expressed disappointment with her vote (520). Eddie Conroy polled well enough to suggest that he could contest Council elections with some confidence. The election of Denis Naughten was enthusiastically celebrated. It’s his fifth successive triumph in a national election. It may be his sweetest. I didn’t witness the moment, but as Naughten was raised on the shoulders of supporters, Frank Feighan stepped forward and held out his hand in congratulations. A euro for their thoughts… Feighan was an interested observer, so too ‘Ming’. Paddy Kilduff and John Keogh were even seen having a laugh, with former councillor Michael McGreal a no doubt bemused third party. Later, with Murphy on the verge of victory, a very gracious Ivan Connaughton

came in with his father, the irrepressible Martin. By now, there were enough cast members present to make a classic political soap opera. After a bit of a stand-off from their base in Hannon’s Hotel, ‘Team Fitzmaurice’ arrived in the Hyde Centre. The word was that Deputy Michael had said he wouldn’t attend unless his supporters were allowed in. ‘Fitz’ got his way and his supporters celebrated his reelection with an infectious joy. Still Murphy and Hopkins waited…prisoners of the people.

ROLLERCOASTER STOPS AT ‘PROMISED LAND’ After the various eliminations, and the division of surplus votes, it came down to the transfers of Kerrane and Curran. By now, long after midnight, Hopkins had moved

823 clear. There was a glimmer of hope for Fine Gael, and Fianna Fáil activists were noticeably nervous. 2 am came and time ticked on. It was a cliff-hanger. Then, a ripple of excitement on the floor – amongst the Fianna Fáil faithful. The latest tallies were in. Apparently their man was receiving a huge transfer from Curran. After all the controversy and comment, Shane Curran was having a significant impact on Election 2016. The Fianna Fáilers were beaming now, hugging, embracing, giving the media a thumbs-up. The atmosphere was special. They surrounded Murphy. When the news was confirmed just after 2.30 am, they held him aloft, and for Eugene Murphy, it was the most emotional of moments. A rollercoaster that had been rolling for thirty-one years had just stopped at the ‘Promised Land’.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

THE SPOILT VOTE (EDITED BY PAUL HEALY)

Media count…

Next week, we pick the lotto numbers…

There was a very large media presence at the count centre on Saturday. Local newspapers and radio stations from Roscommon, Galway, Mayo and Westmeath were joined by representatives from national media outlets. The latter contingent included RTE (television and radio), Raidió na Gaeltachta, TG Ceathair, Newstalk, The Irish Times and various other national titles. “I counted 28 laptops” is how colleague Seamus Duke summed up the large media presence! Shannonside Radio is deserving of special mention. The station does superb, non-stop up-to-the-minute marathon coverage of elections from several count centres.

Mary Claire Grealy from Shannonside interviews Senator Terry Leyden.

Posters ‘stolen’ – then put up again Anne Farrell, Renua Ireland’s General Election candidate in Roscommon-Galway, has claimed that some of her posters were stolen and later re-erected, leaving her open to fines. Posters must be removed within seven days of polling day; otherwise, the candidate would be liable for a fine under the Litter Pollution Act. However, Ms. Farrell said that, throughout the constituency, around one-third of posters were robbed “in a cowardly and insidious” practice. “One day, as we were taking posters down, I noticed two posters put back up where we had just removed them. Who would do this or who actually has time to do this? These people can actually engage in such behaviour with no accountability. They operate in an cowardly, insidious manner, in the dead of night.” Ms. Farrell, who received 520 first-preference votes and was eliminated on the fourth count, said that she had reported the matter to the environment section of Roscommon County Council. – Eoghan Young Murphy.

How Fitz’s army ‘invaded’ count! Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice almost missed being present for the announcement of his re-election because of a row over all his supporters not being granted access to the count centre. Over 50 of his canvassers and followers had gathered at Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon town, and Deputy Fitzmaurice wanted all them to be in the Hyde Centre for his moment of glory. However, each candidate is only allowed a limited number of their entourage into the count centre, where space is at a premium. Deputy Fitzmaurice argued that many people had left the venue, meaning all his team should be accommodated. “Three or four candidates had been eliminated and 60/80 people had left and, at the same time, because they brought their tickets with them, no one else was allowed in,” he said. “I had a canvass team that was at Hannon’s Hotel and I couldn’t go picking eight, ten, twelve of them and tell the rest of then that they couldn’t come.” He said that he rang staff at the count centre to say that, if all were not allowed inside, his celebrations would take place outside the door. “I had to make a stand because I wasn’t going walking away from the people that had been treading the roads for me for the last three weeks,” he said. “That’s what you call standing with your people.” A compromise was reached. “We got a temporary pass for the couple of minutes to let the people in and let them go out again straight away,” Deputy Fitzmaurice said. And so, he and his ‘army’ were there for his celebratory moment: they hoisted him on their shoulders and roared euphorically. MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, one of his chief supporters, was among those present. – Eoghan Young Murphy.

(Where you actually read it!)

WHAT WAS SO FUNNY WHEN MEP ‘MING’ MET CIARAN MULLOOLY OF RTE AT THE COUNT? Maybe readers would like to suggest a caption. Send your entries to ‘Ming & Mullooly’ Caption Competition, by email to news@roscommonpeople.ie or by post to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. We’ll send a prize to whoever provides the funniest entry!

‘It will be tight but I have a feeling that Roscommon may continue a long tradition of producing dramatic elections. I have a feeling that there may be a twist in the FF saga and that Cllr. Eugene Murphy, boosted by a sympathy vote (due to how he was treated by HQ) could be poised to pull of a shock win and deny Hopkins. Prediction: 2 Independents, 1 Fianna Fáil.’ – from Paul Healy’s Blog, last week

Count Reaction on Tweet Street Eddie Conroy @EddiePBPBoyle Congratulations to @DenisNaughten and @MichaelFitzmau1, 2 gentlemen. Will serve us well up there. 3rd too close to call. (The People Before Profit candidate sends his congratulations as squeaky bum time approached.) Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan @lukeming No A&E in Roscommon. No@FineGael TD in Roscommon. Join the dots. #GE16 (Ming commiserates with Fine Gael)

James B.C. @WestAwake YES, YES, YES! @CllrEMurphy #MurphysOnTheMove TOTHEDAIL ;-) :-)!!!! @RTErosGalway #rosgal #GE16 (Finally some unbiased coverage of the election!)

Patsy McGarry @PatsyMcGarryIT Eugene Murphy elected for Fianna Fail in Roscommon Galway…count finished. Two Independents and 1 FF in this three seater. (Patsy confirms it for the rest of the island)

Geraldine Grealy @ggrealy Deputy Eugene! It’s your night @ CllrEMurphy and I couldn’t be prouder of you pal @fiannafailparty #GE16 Well done. (Surely a few on the house for Euge at the Abbey!)

RTÉ News @rtenews Independent’s day in RoscommonGalway as Denis Naughten and Michael Fitzmaurice were joined by Eugene Murphy. #GE16 (The constituency has spoken!)

Outbreak of happiness in Fianna Fáil…

Good man, Eugene .... Shane Currane congratulates Deputy Eugene Murphy at the Count Centre at the Hyde, Roscommon last Saturday night. Pictures: Andrew Fox.

The Fianna Fáil family has rarely looked so happy. It was miraculous! We wondered what some of the Fianna Fáilers present must have been thinking as the prospect of a remarkable Murphy win moved closer to becoming a reality. Councillors Rachel Doherty, Paschal Fitzmaurice, John Keogh – all were present – might have been thinking ‘What if?’ Perhaps not… As for Ivan Connaughton…he too arrived, and again, we wondered what might he be thinking. After all, it could have been him… But Ivan, like the other Fianna Fáil councillors, couldn’t stop beaming once the Murphy triumph became a reality. In fact Ivan and his father, former councillor Martin, were in the middle of the enthusiastic ‘lift him shoulder-high’ celebrations once Murphy’s win was confirmed. Even Councillors Paddy Kilduff

Cllr. Paddy Kilduff pictured with Cllr. John Keogh and Michael McGreal.

and John Keogh (pictured with ex-FG Councillor Michael McGreal) were all smiles! After all the squabbles, this

was a happy family again. Eugene Murphy’s win had brought everyone together! – Paul Healy

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

‘Best-run canvass I was ever involved with’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Denis Naughten’s Director of Elections, Cllr. Laurence Fallon, has said that the Independent TD’s intense election campaign was the reason that he secured such a resounding vote last weekend. Cllr. Fallon, an experienced election strategist, said: “It was the best-run canvass I was ever involved with. That’s why it happened, in my opinion.” He accepted that he was “very confident, nearly arrogant” that Deputy Naughten would be reelected, but that the scale of his victory was a surprise. “We were confident that we would head the poll, but I thought it would be much closer. I didn’t think he would have that level above the quota,” he said. “It is a wonderful achievement.” Another man who was intimately involved in Deputy Naughten’s campaign was his brother Cllr. John. As a member of Fine Gael, he was in an invidious position, not supporting his party’s candidate, Cllr. Maura Hopkins. Understandably delighted with the result, Cllr. John also said that

Brothers Cllr. John Naughten and Deputy Denis Naughten pictured at the Hyde Centre last Saturday. Picture: Andrew Fox.

the extent of his sibling’s victory was a shock. “With a number of strong candidates in the field, particularly with Michael Fitzmaurice being an Independent as well, it was difficult to see that Denis would be in such a strong position,” he said.

How the parties fared Independent candidates received twice the share of the vote in the Roscommon-Galway constituency in last weekend’s General Election than they did in RoscommonSouth Leitrim in 2011. Five years ago, they secured 26.9 per cent of all first preference votes cast but, on this occasion, the electorate gave them 52.5 per cent. The other notable swing was in relation to Fine Gael: their support decreased from 38.5 to 14.9 per cent. That resulted in them ending up with no seats, as opposed to two in 2011, when Frank Feighan and Denis Naughten were elected under the party’s banner. Fianna Fáil’s recovery nationally was reflected in Roscommon-Galway, with a rise from 14.9 to 19.3 per cent. Newly-elected TD Eugene Murphy secured the majority of that, with 14.9 per cent of the first preferences. Shane Curran secured 4.4 per cent. Senator John Kelly also stood under the Labour Party banner in 2011. Then, he received 9.4 per cent of the first preferences, but just 2.7 per cent this time. Sinn Féin’s support fell by three percentage points. Five years ago, under the candidacy of Ballinamore’s Cllr. Martin Kenny, they secured 9.8 per cent, while Ballaghaderreen’s Claire Kerrane received 6.7 per cent on this occasion. People Before Profit-Anti-Austerity Alliance had not been formed in 2011, and this time they secured 2.2 per cent of the first preferences, through an impressive debut from Boyle’s Eddie Conroy. Renua Ireland’s difficulties across the country – they didn’t manage a single seat – was reflected in RoscommonGalway: Anne Farrell, their candidate, received 1.1 per cent of the first preferences. The party – whose leader, Lucinda Creighton, lost her Dáil seat – was only formed last year. The Green Party’s support rose from .46 per cent in the Roscommon-South Leitrim constituency in 2011 to .63 per cent in Roscommon-Galway this time. Their candidate, Miriam Hennessy, received 286 first preferences.

Cllr. John said that he also expected that Fianna Fáil’s Shane Curran, based in their native south Roscommon, would ‘rob’ him of more votes. “Denis put in a very strong campaign, and people recognise the work he has done over his time in

Dáil Éireann, and in particular in relation to Roscommon Hospital, the stand he took on that,” Cllr. John said. Deputy Naughten left Fine Gael over the closure of the Accident and Emergency Unit at the hospital in 2011.

Make Fitzmaurice Minister for Agriculture – ‘Ming’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan has called for Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice to be appointed Minister for Agriculture. Mr. Flanagan is a staunch supporter of the Glinsk man, whose seat in the Dáil he held before being elected to the European Parliament in May 2014. He said that the next government would probably comprise of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, but that he would favour the Independent Alliance supporting either party in an alternative coalition – with one condition. “I would swallow a lot if Michael Fitzmaurice got to become Minister for Agriculture because it would change rural Ireland,” he said. Ming said that Deputy Fitzmaurice, who helped to form the Independent Alliance, would end the disparity between how rich and poor farmers were treated by the state. “With the complete review of the Common Agricultural Policy, it would mean a change to the situation where the richest 20 per cent of the farms get 80 per cent of the money. That would be turned on its head,” he said.

“It would mean that the guys who are getting €90,000 and €100,000 (a year), that money would be given to the small guy. “Rather than the guy on €100,000 spending half of it at home and half of it on this apartment in Croatia, the small guy would spend it all here.” Deputy Fitzmaurice was first elected to the Dáil in the Roscommon-South Leitrim by-election in 2014, triggered by ‘Ming’s’ move to Brussels. The latter said that Deputy Fitzmaurice retaining his seat last weekend was also a fantastic feat. “Never, ever take the day that you get elected to the Dáil for granted because any day it happens, it is just a phenomenal achievement,” he said. ‘Ming’ was delighted that two Independents were elected in the three-seat constituency – Deputy Denis Naughten, who topped the poll, being the other – and that 52 per cent of the electorate voted No. 1 for non-party candidates. “This constituency is wide awake and we can be damn proud of it. If everybody in the country had done what we did, we would have 100 Independents in the Dáil and, by God, would we get the country running,” Ming said.

BALLOT (SOAP)BOX PAUL HEALY Maura responds to difﬁcult defeat with dignity Nine of the candidates in Roscommon/Galway were unsuccessful, but you had to feel especially sorry for Maura Hopkins. Cllr. Hopkins finished in fourth place and came very close to winning a seat. As in the Olympics, fourth place (in a three-seater) is arguably the worst place to finish. Maura’s 6812 first-preference haul was an increase on her vote in the 2014 by-election and there is little doubt that she has the profile, the ability and the determination to build on this electoral outing in the future. However last weekend was a very, very difficult one for Cllr. Hopkins, for a long time the front-runner for the third seat, before Fine Gael’s lacklustre campaign at national level and the curious Murphy/Curran dynamic combined to threaten her prospects of victory. There will be better days for Maura, I suspect. In the meantime, it should be said that she took defeat with grace and dignity. Politics is a rough business and the margins between glory and heartbreak can be slight. Last weekend was very difficult for Cllr. Hopkins, her family and supporters. The gracious manner in which she accepted her defeat, testimony to her decency, was greatly to her credit.

Next Council race: Let an orderly queue begin It was great to see so many first-time candidates in the field. A number of the newcomers may now fancy their chances in the next local elections (taking place in 2019, with party conventions in two years’ time). Eddie Conroy looks certain to run after an impressive electoral debut. Anne Farrell of Renua may be tempted to do so too. Claire Kerrane, who amassed over 3,000 number ones, would be an excellent Council candidate. Tony Coleman must surely be thinking of running too.

Labour of love to end for John? It may be the end of the road for Labour Party Senator John Kelly. After a slow start in Seanad Eireann, John grew into the role and became an effective and diligent member of the Oireachtas. The Ballintubber native is disillusioned with his failure to win a Dail election. Last Friday’s was his least effective campaign yet. I think voters just knew that John would not be involved at the business end – the cards were stacked against him – and therefore many people who would like to give him a number one gave their vote to another candidate. Of course many people may also have been sending a very direct message to Labour/the outgoing Coalition. John Kelly has told the Roscommon People that he is likely to leave it at that – to quit national politics. Whether or not the former local elections poll-topper decides to run for the Council again in the future, remains to be seen. John Kelly had better outings than last Friday’s, both as an Independent and subsequently for Labour. As a Labour representative, he just wasn’t electable in Roscommon. But he has made his mark in the Seanad and is widely respected across the political spectrum. If he retires, we wish him well. If he decides to pursue a return to local politics, he will have much to offer.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

Naughten’s 2000 Galway votes denied Fitzmaurice poll-topping honours HOW WE VOTED PAUL HEALY MID-ROSCOMMON

Denis Naughten won the day in the general Mid-Roscommon area. The tallies aren’t entirely accurate but they give us a good indication of how people voted. Where Naughten, as a Fine Gael candidate, amassed about 2,240 number ones in this area in 2011, he appears to have polled around 3,000 this time around. That being the case, it is clear that the Roscommon electorate exacted revenge on Fine Gael over the closure of Roscommon A&E and threw its support behind Naughten, who opposed the Coalition’s downgrading of the hospital. A glance at tally figures suggests that Naughten topped the poll throughout the traditional Mid-Roscommon area with the exception of Lissaniskey, where he was beaten by Fitzmaurice (Fitzmaurice 191; Naughten 103). In Roscommon town, Naughten got up to 1300 number ones, compared with 345 for Fitzmaurice, 342 for Murphy and 245 for Hopkins.

CASTLEREA & BALLAGHADERREEN

In the Castlerea urban area, there were five polling booth areas. Michael Fitzmaurice topped the poll here, according to tallies. The support in the past of Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan may have been a factor here. Tallies suggest about 383 number ones for Fitzmaurice in Castlerea, with Denis Naughten in second on 352. Maura Hopkins attracted 213 number ones followed by Shane Curran (native of Castlerea) on 149, Eugene Murphy on 113 and Claire Kerrane of Sinn Fein on 105. In Ballaghaderreen urban area, Maura Hopkins, who is from that neck of the woods, performed very solidly, polling almost 500 number ones. I assume that Sinn Fein will be disappointed that Claire Kerrane (who did very well overall) only polled about 142 number ones in Ballaghaderreen. (In her native Tibohine, she got 54, second to Hopkins on 66). Labour Party Senator John Kelly had a bad day, polling just 1211 on the first count. Predictably, he fared

best in Ballaghaderreen in terms of vote numbers, pulling 322 number ones. Other interesting totals – Fitzmaurice 156, Murphy 120, Naughten 59.

SOUTH ROSCOMMON

Denis Naughten ruled South Roscommon, as had been widely expected. The day’s poll-topper pulled some huge votes in the south. Take for example the following examples of dominance – Clonown: Naughten 148, with next nearest challenger being Eugene Murphy on 25; Cornafulla: Naughten 668, with next nearest challenger being Murphy on 63 (Kerrane 46, Fitzmaurice 45, Curran 42, Hopkins 33); Drum: Naughten 300, with the other eleven candidates totalling 116 between them. In Monksland, Naughten polled about 365 number ones, with no other candidate within sight of him (Kerrane 67, Curran 47, Fitzmaurice 35). In Bealnamullia, Naughten polled 449 – again destroying all-comers (Hopkins was second, on 72). In Brideswell, Curran’s base, Naughten was king, polling 106 to 43 for the Fianna Fáil newcomer. In Kiltoom, Naughten swept up with 665 number ones; Fitzmaurice was next, way back on 169, followed by Hopkins on 167 and Curran on 128. In Curraghboy, Naughten again topped the poll (on 221) with no one close. In Moore and Creagh, it was the same story, Naughten polling 819 with Curran second on 128. No one came close to Naughten in the south. It was entirely predictable that Fitzmaurice would see some of the votes he picked up there in the 2014 by-election return to Naughten. That said, Fitzmaurice will be disappointed with some of his totals in the south. He got a respectable 129 in Kiltoom and pockets of support in every other box. According to tallies, about 650 of Curran’s first preference total of 2206 came in the South. The fact that Eugene Murphy could poll in the region of 550 in South Roscommon is very significant. They are revealing figures in the context of Curran’s failure to challenge for a seat and Murphy’s remarkable success. Cllr. Maura Hopkins (Fine Gael) polled about 700 number ones in South Roscommon, according to tallies. This was down on her by-election performance and substantially

down (the Naughten departure being decisive) on the Fine Gael showing in 2011.

BOYLE In Boyle urban area, Fine Gael will note with concern that, post Frank Feighan, their vote dropped substantially. Feighan got about 1150 number ones in Boyle town boxes five years ago; Maura Hopkins pulled about 411. In a fine electoral debut, Eddie Conroy of People Before Profit-AntiAusterity Alliance, topped the poll in Boyle urban area, with 480 number ones. Eugene Murphy polled 262, Michael Fitzmaurice 181, Denis Naughten 175 and Claire Kerrane 165.

STROKESTOWN

Eugene Murphy was always going to do well in his traditional stronghold, and this proved to be the case. The tallies are not absolutely accurate but they give us a good indication of how people voted. Taking Strokestown itself together with Slatta, Whitehall and Kiltrustan, we see that it was a case of ‘Murphy’s law.’ The new TD dominated all-comers, getting about 1050 number ones in those areas. Naughten was second, well back on 410, followed by Fitzmaurice (200), Hopkins (182) and Kerrane (132). In boxes in Rooskey NS, Murphy polled a handsome 170, Naughten next on 101.

GALWAY

Michael Fitzmaurice ‘carried’ Gal-

way – but perhaps not by as much as he would have expected. If tallies are accurate, Fitzmaurice didn’t manage to collect one out of every two votes cast in Galway. Some observers had predicted that he would; some even said that Fitzmaurice would take seven out of every ten votes cast! Those sort of figures were never realistic. While Fitzmaurice was always going to win the biggest share of the Galway vote, there was always going to be a Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Sinn Fein vote. And Denis Naughten was always going to take a fair amount of votes too. Fitzmaurice polled close to 4,000 number ones in Galway, according to the tallies. He destroyed all opposition in Glenamaddy, taking over 500 number ones, compared with 105 for Hopkins, 44 for Murphy, 31 for Kerrane and 29 for Naughten. Cllr. Maura Hopkins had begun making her presence felt in Galway several months ago. The appointment of Dr. John Barton as her Director of Elections was also a wise move. Hopkins polled about 1650 number ones ‘across the border’ in Galway, which was a good showing. Eugene Murphy’s haul of 858 was magnificent, and a key to his eventual election. In contrast, Shane Curran polled 584 in the Galway boxes. Denis Naughten got a great vote in Galway. This was key to his taking the poll-topping honours at the expense of Fitzmaurice. Naughten attracted about 1,000 number ones in Ballinasloe urban area. This compares with about 450 for Cllr. Hopkins and a mere 130 for Fitzmaurice. It was a stunning show of strength by Naughten in Ballinasloe. His vote there was a reflection of his profile as a TD and also suggests that he is viewed by the Ballinasloe electorate as the most credible voice on health services affecting that area. The Naughten family is of course well-known in the area; Denis Naughten’s late father, Liam, served as a public representative in that area. Naughten impacted on Fitzmaurice elsewhere in East Galway too. In Ahascragh, for example, Naughten polled about 133 number ones to 54 for Fitzmaurice. Overall, tallies suggest that Naughten polled just over 2,000 number ones in Galway. That, as much as his popularity in Roscommon, is why he was top of the poll.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment GENERAL ELECTION 2016 – TALLIES ROSCOMMON GALWAY No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67

Situation of Polling Stations Clonown Social Centre Cornafulla S.C. (No.1) Cornafulla S.C. (No.2) Bealnamullia N.S.(No.1) Bealnamullia N.S.(No.2) Monksland Civic Centre Drum Hall Brideswell N.S. Kiltoom Hall (No.1) Kiltoom Hall (No.2) Kiltoom Hall (No.3) Curraghboy Complex Moore Hall (No.1) Moore Hall No.2) Creagh N.S. Dundonnell Com. Centre Castlesampson N.S. Ballyforan Hall Dysart Community Centre Glanduff N.S. Lecarrow N.S. Knockcroghery Old School Tisrara Community Centre Athleague N.S. Rahara N.S. Lissanisky N.S. Fuerty N.S. Corrigeenroe N.S. Ballyfarnon N.S. Cootehall N.S. Strabraggan N.S. Keadue N.S. Drumboylan N.S. Ballinameen N.S. Croghan N.S. Cortober Hall Woodbrook N.S. Kingsland N.S. Grange N.S. Boyle Convent (No. 1) Boyle Convent (No. 2) Boyle Convent (No. 3) Boyle Convent (No. 4) Boyle Convent (No.5) Aughrim N.S. Dangan N.S. Ballinagare N.S. Frenchpark N.S. Tibohine N.S. Ballaghaderreen (No.1) Ballaghaderreen (No.2) Ballaghaderreen (No. 3 Ballaghaderreen (No.4) Brossna N.S. Rooskey N.S. Slatta N.S. Whitehall N.S.(No.1) Whitehall N.S. (No.2) Strokestown (No.1) Strokestown (No.2) Strokestown (No.3) Kiltrustan N.S. Elphin Convent (No.1) Elphin Convent (No.2) Cloonyquinn N.S. Tulsk N.S. Roxboro N.S.

Polling Districts Athlone West Rural, Clonown, Crannagh (A1) Crannagh (A2) Crannagh, Drumlose (A3) Athlone West Rural (A4) Athlone West Rural, Ballynamona (A5) Athlone West Rural (A6) Thomastown (A7) Ballynamona, Kilcar (A8) Kiltoom (A9) Ballynamora, Kilttom, Rockhill (B1) Athlone West rural, Kiltoom (B2) Caltragh, Kilcar, Rockhill (B3) Ballydangan, Moore (B4) Ballydangan, Cloonburren, Creagh, Culliagh (B5) Cragh, Culliagh (B6) Carrowreagh, Taughmaconnell (B7) Castlesampson (B8) Taghboy (B9) Dysart, Turrock (C1) Carnagh (C2) Lecarrow (C3) Athleague East, Scregg (C4) Lacken, Lismaha (C5) Athleague East,Athleague West (C6) Athleague East, Lacken (C7) Donamon, Rosmoylan (C8) Athleague West,Fuerty (C9) Crossna, Kilbryan (J1) Ballyfarnon, Crossna, Keadue (J2) Ballyfermoyle, Crossna, Oakport, Rockingham, Tumna South (J3) Aghafin, Altogowlan, Ballyfarnon, Keadue, Loughallen (J4) Aghafin, Ballyfermoyle, Crossna, Keadue (J5) Ballyfermoyle, Tumna North (6) Eastersnow, Kilcolagh, Kilmacumsey, Mantua (J7) Aughrim West, Creeve, Croghan, Killummon, Kilmacumsey, Rockingham (J8) Danesfort (J9) Killukin, Oakport, Rockingham (K1) Breedoge (K2) Rushfield (K3) Boyle Rural, Rockingham, Tivannagh (K4) Boyle Urban (K5) Boyle Urban (K6) Boyle Urban (K7) Boyle Urban (K8) Aughrim East, Aughrim West, Creeve, Kilmore (K9) Aughrim Ease, Cloonteen (L1) Ballinagare (L2) Ballinagare, Frenchpark (L3) Buckhill (L4) Ballaghaderreen (L5) Ballaghaderreen (L6) Ballaghaderreen (L7) Ballaghaderreen, Edmondstown(L8) Ballaghaderreen (L9) Kilglass North, Rooskey (M1) Ballygarden, Bumlin, Kilglass Nth, Kilgalss Sth, Strokestown (M2) Bumlin, Rooskey (M3) Tarmonbarry (M4) Strokestown (M5) Annaghmore, Bumlin, Strokestown (M6) Annaghmore, Bumlin, Cregga, Strokestown Tulsk (M7) Ballygarden, Creeve, Cregga, Elia (M8) Elphin (M9) Creeve, Cregga, Elphin, Lisgarve, Rossmore (N1) Cloonyquinn, Rossmore (N2) Ogulla, Tulsk (N3) Drumdaff, Roscommon Rural (R1)

Coleman 2 0 4 4 4 5 0 0 2 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 1 0 2 1 2 0 0 1 3 1 6 0 4 0 0 2 1 2 0 2 1 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 4 3 2 4 2 3 6 4 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 2 0

Conroy 2 1 5 4 7 14 7 6 1 3 2 0 3 1 0 2 2 1 4 1 0 4 2 4 2 0 3 16 8 28 4 6 5 20 9 11 4 4 20 125 74 104 64 113 6 4 5 11 4 2 2 6 3 4 6 0 4 11 3 0 2 4 13 1 1 3 2

Curran 4 18 24 29 26 47 19 43 43 32 63 32 27 39 62 49 53 8 14 16 3 7 4 13 6 2 14 3 16 8 6 5 3 3 6 5 6 2 7 11 7 11 7 5 2 1 7 13 2 10 7 18 10 4 9 2 0 7 1 3 0 1 5 3 0 4 3

Fallon 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 2 0 0 2 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 4 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 3 0

Farrell 0 3 1 5 2 3 2 0 5 1 5 2 2 3 13 6 4 0 4 3 3 2 2 3 0 5 8 2 0 4 1 0 2 1 0 10 1 0 0 4 2 7 7 4 2 9 1 2 1 6 0 4 3 2 2 4 1 7 1 1 3 1 5 5 0 2 0

Fitzmaurice 23 16 29 12 18 35 18 15 17 57 55 57 9 27 37 57 34 62 49 47 22 58 84 130 33 191 162 23 29 48 42 24 21 50 67 50 33 41 56 86 19 26 24 26 32 29 67 155 41 29 34 37 56 46 73 27 38 42 13 34 21 25 28 56 31 28 62

Hennessy 2 0 4 3 1 3 0 2 5 4 8 0 0 0 2 4 2 0 1 6 0 3 1 3 0 3 3 7 0 9 2 2 3 0 4 6 3 0 3 8 1 7 2 1 5 2 1 1 1 1 0 2 1 0 4 0 1 7 2 1 1 0 5 2 0 2 0

Hopkins 11 17 16 48 24 30 27 27 70 48 49 43 30 24 64 90 31 24 26 32 20 23 29 27 24 34 42 45 58 118 33 38 33 59 87 97 45 50 78 177 70 75 49 40 74 67 59 150 66 74 94 104 211 64 37 23 9 37 19 38 37 19 39 62 19 69 21

Kelly 1 1 1 9 7 5 1 2 6 6 5 6 0 0 3 3 2 2 7 2 0 3 1 2 2 1 3 5 1 10 13 2 2 18 3 5 1 12 3 5 3 8 6 2 1 1 33 71 22 81 52 100 89 66 4 1 0 2 2 3 3 2 5 5 7 2 2

Kerrane 5 11 35 22 30 67 15 4 6 19 13 16 8 20 22 18 8 13 14 13 8 11 11 23 4 9 10 10 27 32 107 33 12 33 24 29 10 15 6 53 45 23 13 31 13 12 33 67 54 31 27 36 48 16 46 10 11 30 22 32 21 6 27 25 11 19 9

Murphy 25 30 33 13 11 20 27 9 20 28 20 43 9 16 31 31 10 38 66 79 24 43 69 65 34 35 72 33 51 127 70 108 45 87 106 85 67 22 25 115 49 35 21 42 67 68 53 76 18 22 25 33 40 20 170 111 155 150 101 243 186 92 96 153 88 107 93

Naughten 148 273 395 239 210 365 300 106 183 189 255 221 132 300 387 277 154 135 152 247 122 204 118 201 87 103 185 20 23 51 36 21 25 70 59 44 38 19 30 60 23 35 24 33 31 36 51 72 17 12 10 18 19 10 101 58 26 82 30 93 73 48 81 99 51 86 149

Votes Cast Box Counted 223 1 370 1 547 1 388 1 340 1 595 1 416 1 214 1 358 1 390 1 479 1 422 1 220 1 430 1 623 1 540 1 302 1 283 1 338 1 448 1 202 1 360 1 323 1 473 1 192 1 385 1 503 1 167 1 214 1 441 1 315 1 243 1 151 1 342 1 368 1 343 1 210 1 165 1 231 1 646 1 294 1 338 1 218 1 298 1 235 1 230 1 312 1 624 1 229 1 271 1 256 1 360 1 484 1 238 1 457 1 238 1 247 1 375 1 195 1 452 1 347 1 198 1 306 1 411 1 208 1 327 1 341 1

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment GENERAL ELECTION 2016 – TALLIES ROSCOMMON GALWAY No. 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132

Situation of Polling Stations Kilteevan N.S. Ballymurray N.S. Cloverhill N.S. Roscommon (No. 1) Roscommon (No. 2) Roscommon (No. 3) Roscommon (No. 4) Roscommon (No. 5) Roscommon (No. 6) Roscommon (No. 7) Cloontuskert N.S. Clooncah N.S. Four Mile House N.S. Ballyleague N.S. (No.1) Ballyleague N.S. (No.2) Cloonfad Comm. Centre Granlahan N.S. Ballinlough Hall (No. 1) Ballinlough Hall (No. 2) Castlerea St.Pauls (No.1) Castlerea St.Pauls (No.2) Castlerea St.Pauls (No 3) Castlerea St.Pauls (No.4) Castlerea St.Pauls (No.5) Treen N.S. Ballintubber N.S. (No. 1) Ballintubber N.S. (No. 2) Runnamoate N.S. Lisacul N.S. Gorthaganny N.S. Loughglynn N.S. Fairymount Hall Cloonbonniffe N.S. Castleplunkett N.S. Ballinasloe N.S. (No.1) Ballinasloe N.S. (No.2) Ballinasloe N.S. (No.3) Ballinasloe N.S. (No.4) Ballinasloe N.S. (No.5) Ballinasloe N.S. (No.6) Ballinasloe N.S. (No.7) Clontuskert N.S. Castleblakeney N.S. Caltra N.S. Killure N.S. Ahascragh N.S. Kilglass N.S. Castlefrench N.S. Mountbellew N.S. Windfield N.S. Ballaghleans N.S. Ballygar N.S. (No.1) Ballygar N.S. (No.2) Dunmore N.S. Gortaleam N.S. Glenamaddy N.S. (No.1) Glenamaddy N.S. (No.2) Kilkerrin N.S. (No.1) Kilkerrin N.S. (No.2) Creggs N.S. Glinsk N.S. Ballymoe (Fr Flanagan Centre) Ardeevin N.S. Williamstown N.S. Williamstown N.S.

Postal Vote

Polling Districts Kilteevan, Mote, Roscommon Rural (R2) Kilteevan, Mote (R3) Cams (R4) Roscommon Rural (R5) Roscommon Rural (R6) Roscommon Rural (R7) Roscommon Rural (R8) Roscommon Rural, Roscommon Urban (R9) Roscommon Urban (S1) Roscommon Urban (S2) Cloontuskert, Kilgefin, Killavacken, Lisonuffy (S3) Cloonfinlough, Kilgefin, Killavacken (S4) Kilbride North, Kilbride South, Killukin (S5) Cloontuskert (S6) Clontuskert, Kilgefin (S7) Kiltultagh (S8) Ballinlough, Kiltullagh (S9) Ballinlough (T1) Ballinlough (T2) Castlerea (T3) Castlerea (T4) Castlerea (T5) Castlerea (T6) Castlerea, Coolougher (T7) Ballinlough, Coolougher (T8) Ballintubber (T9) Carrowduff, Castleteehan (U1) Cloonygormican (U2) Artagh North (U3) Artagh South (U4) Artagh South, Fairymount, Loughglynn (U5) Baslick, Fairymount (U6) Cloonfower (U7) Castleplunkett (U8) Ballinasloe Rural, Ballinasloe Urban (AA) Ballinasloe Rural, Ballinasloe Urban (AA) Ballinasloe Rural, Ballinasloe Urban (AA) Ballinasloe Rural, Ballinasloe Urban (AA) Ballinasloe Rural, Ballinasloe Urban (AA) Ballinasloe Rural, Ballinasloe Urban (AA) Ballinasloe Rural, Ballinasloe Urban (AA) Clontuskert, Kellysgrove, Lismanny, Kylemore (AB) Castleblakeney (AT) Caltra, Clonbrock (AV) Killure (AX) Ahascragh, Clonborck, Killure (AY) Clonbrock (AZ) Castleffrench, Taghboy (BA) Ballynakill (Mountbellew), Killian (BC) Ballynakill, Cloonkeen (Mountbellew)(BD) Ballynakill, Cloonkeen (Mountbellew), Killian.(BE) Killeroran (BF) Killeroran (BF) Dunmore (North) (EC) Toberdosh (ED) Glenamaddy, Boyounagh, Kiltullagh, Raheen (EH) Glenamaddy, Boyounagh, Kiltullagh,Raheen (EH) Curraghmore, Glenamaddy, Kiltullagh,Shankill (EJ) Curraghmore, Glenamaddy, Kiltullagh, Shankill (EJ) Creggs (ER) Ballynakill, Toberroe (ES) Ballymoe, Kilcroan (ET) Ballinastack, Kilcroan (EV) Ballinastack, Island, Kilcroan,Templetogher (EW) Ballinastack, Island, Kilcroan,Templetogher (EW)

Coleman 2 0 0 1 1 0 2 1 2 1 3 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 3 1 0 2 0 2 2 0 2 7 4 32 1 4 0 2 1 2 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 4 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 0

Conroy 0 7 0 1 4 3 0 2 5 3 0 5 6 2 1 4 0 4 5 8 3 0 6 2 1 3 4 3 1 1 3 2 2 2 1 1 4 2 3 1 7 4 3 1 3 1 3 2 4 1 0 1 0 4 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 1

Curran 6 1 7 7 7 2 10 1 3 4 3 0 7 3 6 5 2 10 12 51 26 22 37 13 6 15 9 2 21 10 14 11 21 5 35 47 42 24 53 42 37 62 57 21 17 18 6 13 13 3 9 5 5 15 12 4 10 1 9 2 4 5 3 8 2

Fallon 0 1 3 2 1 0 7 2 0 1 1 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 4 0 0 2 0 0 0 4 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

Farrell 0 8 4 4 5 3 3 6 4 3 2 3 2 4 1 0 3 9 7 8 10 3 16 5 7 20 14 20 3 0 2 3 6 7 8 3 1 5 8 0 1 5 7 4 3 3 4 4 4 5 4 3 1 8 3 6 1 0 1 0 1 8 1 0 0

Fitzmaurice 56 92 61 87 66 22 50 61 32 27 45 54 100 30 55 130 123 84 73 104 36 56 98 89 63 201 143 83 99 75 77 44 65 82 31 20 18 11 16 21 14 75 65 62 38 54 41 138 90 108 95 185 164 179 132 235 274 120 240 187 426 218 159 195 229

Hennessy 0 10 0 5 1 1 0 2 1 0 0 1 3 0 2 0 2 0 1 1 2 0 8 3 1 1 0 0 1 1 4 1 0 1 2 6 5 4 4 3 1 9 3 1 1 5 1 3 0 0 0 2 2 2 1 3 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 3

Hopkins 25 71 21 60 45 26 29 39 32 14 17 31 68 29 27 17 42 52 59 47 20 40 51 55 35 41 36 24 128 43 112 80 23 34 92 79 80 25 68 75 37 159 61 62 22 55 34 59 49 25 60 44 36 66 42 62 43 33 53 33 27 27 30 23 52

Kelly 1 5 2 3 1 1 6 1 0 0 0 4 10 2 1 3 12 3 8 22 7 9 12 2 5 19 1 4 63 26 55 21 6 9 4 11 4 4 13 3 31 3 2 3 3 0 3 4 2 0 3 0 1 3 1 2 4 1 5 0 4 1 0 2 5

Kerrane 16 16 13 22 14 6 21 6 15 16 11 15 29 10 30 8 5 19 29 45 9 10 29 12 5 23 15 5 54 13 60 20 14 15 90 65 36 36 60 46 121 55 21 17 27 30 12 12 14 3 11 15 11 14 4 17 14 5 14 3 9 12 3 14 5

Murphy 46 85 43 103 47 17 50 46 41 38 126 127 151 55 86 9 18 32 36 31 8 10 40 24 13 41 39 20 32 22 66 39 12 63 23 29 20 4 14 12 17 41 49 43 6 43 50 65 37 27 68 43 41 17 5 26 18 9 19 6 29 15 22 30 30

Naughten 128 291 115 302 244 87 146 216 172 102 86 90 242 72 97 19 31 48 53 108 40 59 91 54 47 110 77 106 36 19 52 53 36 71 195 179 109 90 138 189 96 198 46 60 69 133 82 116 30 16 70 62 64 9 5 17 12 0 12 2 17 27 3 14 8

Totals

6 212

13 955

62 1925

6 90

8 499

53 9479

4 279

77 6637

20 1200

27 2997

63 6693

187 13307

Votes Cast Box Counted 280 1 587 1 269 1 597 1 436 1 168 1 324 1 383 1 307 1 209 1 294 1 330 1 621 1 209 1 306 1 195 1 239 1 261 1 284 1 429 1 162 1 209 1 392 1 259 1 185 1 476 1 338 1 269 1 447 1 215 1 477 1 275 1 193 1 289 1 483 1 443 1 321 1 206 1 379 1 398 1 363 1 612 1 317 1 275 1 189 1 342 1 238 1 417 1 244 1 189 1 321 1 361 1 329 1 317 1 205 1 376 1 379 1 170 1 356 1 233 1 517 1 316 1 221 1 292 1 335 1 0 0 526 1 44,273 133

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

ELECTION 2016 • Results • Reaction • Analysis • Comment

Roscommon voters in hospital pass to Kenny? OPINION PAUL HEALY

In 2011, we knew that Fianna Fáil would get a (deserved) kicking…the party, which had become arrogant and out of touch, had presided over the collapse of the Irish economy. Here in Roscommon (and South Leitrim) voters responded by rejecting FF in the ballot box. The party’s vote share fell from almost 39% to just under 15%. Fast-forward to last Friday, and a question presented itself: Would the Roscommon electorate hold Enda Kenny/Fine Gael to account for the explosive decision in 2011 to close Roscommon A&E (after explicitly assuring voters that they would retain services there).

While Maura Hopkins’ failure to win a seat may be attributed to various factors – including her prevarication at the height of the ‘Save Roscommon’ campaign, and Eugene Murphy’s strong ‘last lap’ – it seems clear that voters in Roscommon gave Taoiseach Enda Kenny a ruthless rebuke over A&E. Firstly, there was the massive vote for Deputy Denis Naughten (almost 14,000 number ones) which, notwithstanding everything else he stands for, is seen as a very calculated endorsement of the stance he took over the County Hospital. Secondly, in addition to hailing Naughten, voters opted not to elect a Fine Gael TD in Roscommon for the first time in almost seventy years. The Fine Gael vote in the

traditional Mid-Roscommon area – ‘hospital heartland’ – effectively collapsed on Friday. In the 2011 General Election, Fine Gael (according to tallies) attracted about 2,429 number ones (Naughten 2240; Feighan 189) in Mid-Roscommon. By comparison, Cllr. Maura Hopkins secured about 600 number ones there on Friday. In Roscommon town urban area, Fine Gael received about 948 number ones in the 2011 General Election; on Friday, that dwindled to about 245. The pattern was the same in adjoining areas affected by the closure of Roscommon A&E. Meanwhile, Fine Gael vote share in the constituency was down from 38% in 2011 (when it was Roscommon/South Leitrim) to 14.9% this time around.

Which represents a kicking by the electorate similar to that meted out to Fianna Fáil five years ago. It seems that when it came to Enda Kenny and Roscommon A&E, the people of Roscommon proved they have long memories.

An Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Feighan and Murphy call for FG/FF deal < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Former Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan and newly-elected Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy have called for their parties to work together to ensure a new government is formed. With the coalition parties, Fine Gael and Labour, falling far short being re-elected to office, its seems that the only prospect of a government being formed would be if Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil coalesced. That would, however, be unprecedented: since the history of the state, the ‘civil war parties’ have always been on different sides of Leinster

House. However, Mr. Feighan said that they should now bury the hatchet. “The people have made a decision: to me, the people have called on a Fine Gael-Fianna Fáil government,” he said. “I certainly feel that both parties now should heed that call. I don’t think people want another election; they want stability to progress into the future. “I believe it is incumbent on both parties now to do what the people want and that would be to form a Fine Gael-Fianna Fáil national government.”

Deputy Murphy said that Fianna Fáil should repeat the ‘Alan Dukes strategy’ of 1987: Fine Gael, then in opposition and led by Mr. Dukes, decided not to oppose the Fianna Fáil minority government. “On a personal basis, for the sake of the country, depending on what concessions we could get, particularly for rural Ireland, I would look at the possibility of a minority support for a Fine Gael-led government,” he said. “I certainly hope we are not back fighting an election in eight or ten months, because I certainly believe that people will not forgive us for that.”

BALLOT (SOAP)BOX PAUL HEALY ‘Ming’ and ‘Fitz’ still bosom pals! Mischevious rumours had begun to circulate that Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan and Michael Fitzmaurice aren’t perhaps quite as close now as they once were. There would appear to be absolutely no credence to the rumour. ‘Ming’ spent several hours at the count centre on Saturday. He was in much demand from the media and also chatted to the various political enthusiasts ‘on the floor.’ While certainly very favourably disposed towards Sinn Fein’s Claire Kerrane, ‘Ming’ was undoubtedly full square behind ‘Fitz’ at the weekend. No one who saw the celebrations on the election of Fitzmaurice could doubt that…’Ming’ reacted with great emotion, almost on an Alan Kelly scale! Later, ‘Ming’ made a very good point when he said that no one should ever take being elected to the Dail for granted. We had all viewed Naughten and Fitzmaurice as shoe-ins, but that doesn’t mean the moment of victory should be any less momentous for odds-on favourites than for others. As ‘Ming’ wisely put it: “Never, ever take the day that you get elected to the Dáil for granted because any day it happens, it is just a phenomenal achievement.” ‘Ming’ went on to call for Michael Fitzmaurice to be appointed Minister for Agriculture.

In praise of Mary and her team Returning Officer Mary Raftery and her staff were a pleasure to deal with. They also did an excellent, thorough job. On behalf of the Roscommon People team present, our sincere thanks to Mary and staff for their cooperation and great courtesy. * We might add that the availability of refreshments on an ongoing basis for media personnel present was much appreciated!

Losing my General Election virginity < DAN DOONER

Claire Kerrane and Cllr. Ivan Connaughton pictured at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon last Saturday. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Up until Saturday I had been a General Election virgin, well as a reporter anyway. Come 4 am on Sunday morning, my innocence had well and truly vanished. It was a strange feeling sitting in the media area surrounded by technology of all kinds as vital votes were counted in an area that resembled an old post office. The presence of candidates and supporters just outside that area reminded me of the time I went to Roscommon Mart. In terms of the actually election, I always knew politics in Ireland was cut-throat and often times cruel and that manifested itself in so many ways on Saturday night/Sunday morning. Whether it was Michael Fitzmaurice’s failure to squeeze everyone who voted for him into the count centre or Anne Farrell only managing to

find 520 first preference votes in the entire constituency after a campaign which gave her great confidence. Michael eventually managed to sneak a small army into the Hyde Centre with some of them even getting as far as the press area as the celebrations began. Michael will join runaway winner and fellow independent, Denis Naughten, in the next Dáil. Meanwhile, gender balance was completely ignored in Roscommon/Galway as Maura Hopkins lost out to the dogged Eugene Murphy of Fianna Fáil. Maura and her supporters were visibly distraught but she held her composure to offer her congratulations and thanks at the end of a difficult night. Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan flew in to oversee events. His former employee, Claire Kerrane, seemed pleased with her share of the vote and vowed to build on the platform going forward.

Maura Hopkins pictured with supporters at the Hyde Centre, Roscommon last Saturday. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Thomas D Fallon, will not be called TD Fallon TD this year but also vowed to return, he along with other candidates bemoaned the difficulty in being elected as an

independent. That point was lost on me however, as first Denis Naughten, and then Michael Fitzmaurice were held aloft in the Hyde later that night.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Weekend

PEOPLE

FACES and PLACES:

See pages 52 - 53

Join Jimmy Crowley in Knockcroghery

Pictured at ‘Dance for Denis’ in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Anna and Ella Flanagan and Mags Keane. Picture: Andrew Fox

An evening with Johnny McEvoy at the Abbey Hotel

enowned performer, Johnny McEvoy, will take to the stage this Sunday (March 6th) at the Abbey Hotel. Johnny has always been highly acclaimed for his excellent shows and his forthcoming nationwide concerts are eagerly awaited by his legion of fans. This nostalgic evening of ‘Song and Story’ features all of Johnny’s many hit songs including: Muirsin Durkan, Boston Burglar, Those Brown Eyes, Long Long Before Your Time and many more. His songs are haunting, evocative and

beautifully presented, with many in the folk and ballad style. Johnny McEvoy has been one of the most enduring and talented singer/songwriters in these islands over the past 50 years. His concert performances are second to none with his songs beautifully delivered in truly artistic fashion and story telling of the finest order. This is a concert not to be missed. The perfect gift for Mother’s Day. Tickets available at hotel reception. Contact 090 6626240, log onto Ticketmaster.ie or pay at the door on the night.

his Saturday (5th March), South Roscommon Singers Circle present legendary balladeer, Jimmy Crowley, in concert in Murray’s Lounge, Knockcroghery. The concert, in this cosy and intimate setting, begins at 8 pm and will be followed by the regular 1st Saturday open singing session. All are welcome to come along and enjoy this unique experience. There will be a modest admission charge – if you can afford it. Jimmy Crowley is a living legend in Irish Folk music. He comes from Cork, in the south of Ireland, a city whose musical richness mirrors the city’s diversity. Crowley draws on all of these traditions in fashioning his own unique per-

formance style and repertoire and has collected extensively in the south

of Ireland both as a ballad singer and as part of his academic degree.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

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

Hamrock’s

cinema & leisure complex

Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday night, 5th March:

First appearance of the very popular

NEW

minnows

RELEASE FRIDAY 4th Centre Point Retail Park Roscommon KIDS MOVIE CLUB (KMC) Adult & Kids Tickets ONLY €3 each For All Enquiries Tel: 090-6665333 facebook/ C & L plex

PREMIERE THURS 10th 21:35

In aid of Lourdes Assisted Pilgrim Fund in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Monday, 7th March 2016 Music by: Frank Nelson, The Lancers, Patsy McCaul, Mark Finn, Ita Trimble, Carmel McLoughlin, Stephanie Feely, Top Level & Derek Campbell Raffle on the night plus spot prizes Dancing 9.00 pm - 1.00 am Admission €10. Tickets available at Hotel Reception and on the door on the night

The Country Ballroom

TULSK INN

- Market Square, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626225 Friday 4th:

Shane Moore Fundraising Dance

JJ HARLOWS

Week Commencing Fri 4th—Thurs 10th

Movie Times

CAPTURE THE FLAG 2D (PG)

12:30 (KMC)

GOOSEBUMPS (PG)

12:15 (KMC); 15:10; 16:55

GRIMSBY (16)

17:20; 19:45; 21:30

HOW TO BE SINGLE (15A)

14:35; 17:00; 21:40

LONDON HAS FALLEN (15A)

15:00; 19:15; 21:40

ODDBALL AND THE PENGUINS (G)

12:45 (KMC); 14:45; 16:55

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES (15A)

14:35; 17:25

ROOM (15A)

19:10

THE DIVERGENT SERIES: ALLEGIANT (12A)

21:35 PREMIERE Thurs 10th

TRIPPLE 9 (16) NO 21:35 SHOW Thursday 10th

19:05; 21:35

ZOOLANDER No.2 (12A)

19:25; 21:40

Open Mic Night – All welcome, sign up at 9pm Saturday 5th

The Blueshounds

Saturday, 5th March DANCING WITH

Carmel McLoughlin

Sunday 6th

Entertainment at JJ’s th

On Friday night (March 4 ) it’s Open Mic night in JJ’s, The Square, Roscommon, so all singers and performers are welcome to appear at one of Roscommon’s premier live music venues. The Blueshounds will be on stage this Saturday (March 5th) at JJ’s. The Blueshounds are a powerhouse Blues/Rock band hailing from the deep south of Dublin. Their show is comprised of Chicago Blues classics, 50’s Rock ‘n’ Roll gems and some forgotten treasures by artists such as Elvis Presley, Eric Clapton, Johnny Cash and many more! Their performances have been described as ‘The perfect music for falling in love to, or indeed finding your third wife!’ So guys grab a girl, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to Shake Rattle and Roll – because The Blueshounds are coming to Roscommon town!

Pictured at a Coffee Morning in JJ Harlow’s in aid of Daffodil Day (11th of March) on Friday morning last were Patsy Brady and John Cullen. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a Coffee Morning in JJ Harlow’s in aid of Daffodil Day (11th of March) on Friday morning last were Mary Rose Young, Florence Connor and Pat O’Rourke. Picture: Andrew Fox

Dancing with Carmel this Saturday night in Tulsk The Country Ballroom at the Tulsk Inn will play host to one of the region’s most popular singers this Saturday night (March 5th), when Carmel McLoughlin, one of the Queens of Irish Country music, performs. Carmel always draws a major crowd to the Tulsk venue so get your dancing shoes on and come along to The Country Ballroom for what promises to be an enjoyable night of music and dancing!

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

BEER OF THE WEEK! SCRAGGY BAY India Pale Ale

Fondly known as “Yellowcap”, Scraggy Bay is a balanced golden ale with a snappy little bite of hops. Alc. 5.3% vol.

JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

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

Ballinameen to host James Kilbane In Ballinameen, Co. Roscommon the community are coming together on Sunday, 13th March to hold a concert with leading Irish singer James Kilbane in the Community Centre. The concert is being organised by the village as a fundraiser to maintain the Community Centre, Kingsland N.S., and to carry out repairs to the Ballinameen church. All three causes play a very central part in the everyday life of the local community. The Community Centre is home to all local clubs including the GAA, Ladies Football, Irish Dancing, Community Games as well as locals using it for very important celebrations such as First Communions, Confirmations and large community parties and events. Tickets details from Carmel at 086-6011866 or Johnny at 0861019149. Concert starts at 8 pm and doors open at 7.30 pm. All support will be appreciated by the Ballinameen community and area.

Perfect Mother’s Day Gift Tom Kelly Promotions in conjunction with

10 Music Management present

IN CONCERT His new album

Basement Sessions 2 out now

t +353 1 555 2308 e jmcevoy@10musicmgt.com

ABBEY HOTEL ROSCOMMON Sunday next March 6th at 8.00 pm Tickets €27.50 at Hotel Tel (090) 6626240 and Ticketmaster.ie. Or Pay at the Door TomKellyPromotions.com

Pictured at the launch of the Glenamaddy Drama Festival were Maureen Beames, Agnes Connelly and Margaret Keaveny. Picture: Andrew Fox

JohnnyMcEvoy.com

Pictured at the launch of the Glenamaddy Drama Festival were John Brennan and Tina Ward. Picture: Andrew Fox

Faces & Places Photographs: Andrew Fox

Launch of Glenamaddy Drama Festival Pictured at the launch of the Glenamaddy Drama Festival were David Burke and Tracey Comer. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the launch of the Glenamaddy Drama Festival were Martina Keaveny and Veronica Connelly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

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

Coffee Morning in JJ Harlow’s in aid of Daffodil Day

Pictured at a Coffee Morning in JJ Harlow’s in aid of Daffodil Day (11th of March) on Friday morning last were Eilish Humborg, Mary Boland, Cathal and Aileen McConn and Margaret Clarke. Picture: Andrew Fox

Mary Geraghty, Josie Fallon, Roisín Collier and Seán Hanley pictured at the Hyde Centre. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a Coffee Morning in JJ Harlow’s in aid of Daffodil Day (11th of March) on Friday morning last were Mary Connaughton, Patsy Brady and John Cullen. Picture: Andrew Fox

Cllr. Des Joyce, Rosaleen Hegarty, Marty Ward and John Doherty pictured at the Hyde Centre. Picture: Andrew Fox

Hyde Centre, Roscommon

Margaret Cummins, Áine Cummins and Sinéad Conroy pictured at the Hyde Centre. Picture: Andrew Fox

Mary Murren, Brendan Kelly, Liz Keigher and Margaret Gillooly pictured at the Hyde Centre. Picture: Andrew Fox

Kathleen, Martin and Louise Conneally pictured at the Hyde Centre. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

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

Pictured at ‘Dance for Denis’ in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon on Friday night last were Anna Flanagan, Seamie O’Kelly, Aga Lach, Ella Flanagan and Lillian McDonald. Picture: Andrew Fox

s Faces & Place Photographs: Andrew Fox

Pictured at ‘Dance for Denis’ in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Denise Cuttle, Michael Cuttle and Carmel Hannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

CARTHY’S PORTERHOUSE, ROSCOMMON

Pictured at ‘Dance for Denis’ in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Stacey and David King and Yolo Hayes. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at ‘Dance for Denis’ in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Martina Hoare, Dylan Hoare and Paddy Beirne. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at ‘Dance for Denis’ in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Clodagh, Yvonne and Frank Beattie. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at ‘Dance for Denis’ in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon on Friday night last were Marie Shaw, Brian Keogh and Michelle Shaw. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN Damien Preparing to Reap Garvey Plumbing & Heating Contractor Gas & Oil Boiler Servicing Call Damien on

086 2672674

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

CAN’T FIND ANYONE

to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ... WE DO ANYTHING From fitting Curtain Rails, Powerwashing, Painting, Gardening to laying that footpath • Fast Reliable Service • Professional, • Courteous Employees • Trustworthy

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL !

094 96 31880 or 087 9100477 www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

What you Sow!

< MIRIAM KERINS

e Irish have

two great expressions when it comes to the weather – ‘soft day, thank God’ or ‘Jaysus it’s bucketin’ down;’ now this is despite the fact, as I write, we’re currently experiencing a kaleidoscope of weather phenomenon displaying a variety of mood swings equivalent to that of a miserable, grumpy teenager, with Met Eireann issuing no less than three different weather warnings in one morning! And so, as the thundering, relentless rain, biting sleet and heavy snow, all being blown sideways by gale force winds, bash the country, it’s hard to comprehend that we are actually now out of the dank, dark winter and into bright, cheerful, colourful spring, meaning the garden needs a bit of TLC. Now I’ve said it before, I love gardening…well I love the idea of gardening but find the whole process a tad overwhelming

and instead like nothing more than offering some direction and enjoying and reaping the benefits of what-he-who-mustbe-obeyed, who is the outdoorsy type, has mown and sown. However, this year I’ve decided to make some manner of an attempt to garden and thought, with me being so busy, mainly procrastinating, perhaps I could start off gently by growing some typical, and nutritional favourites of mine such as shallots and garlic which, by the way I’m told, will actually benefit from the ground still being cold. I’ve also been advised that carrots, cauliflower, lettuce and cabbage will best benefit from being indoors or in a polytunnel or greenhouse. However the likes of sprouts or onions, which are grown from seed, will do ok if planted outdoors but perhaps, given the current weather’s severe mood swings, it may still be a bit risky, so maybe drop into your local garden centre and get some

professional advice. Now even though it’s scary outside, I’m ever the optimist and, as I contemplate growing all these lovely, lush veggies, it hasn’t slipped my mind that I’ll need somewhere to sit and admire them, and that’s when the patio and the garden furniture and accessories come in. Now, like the rest of the county, I’m on a tight budget and feel the best way to create a relaxing environment, as well as enhancing my garden, is to add some hanging outdoor fairy lights and lanterns left over from Christmas – bottle of vino optional. Get the Barbie out now, dust it down and discard any charred and mouldy sausages left over from last summer and deep clean the grill. Take a look at your well-worn patio furniture and decide if it’s best to dump it or freshen it up with a lick of paint. Now, depending on the type of furniture you have, whether it’s plastic,

wooden or metal, your first step will be to prepare and prime; so, get dialling and hire that stripper; and no, not the erotic kind. Remember, when painting outdoor furniture, carefully follow the instructions on the label,

and, while I’m no DIY expert I have discovered that several thin coats are much better than thick, clumpy ones because they dry quicker and produce a better, harder finish. Enjoy!

Advertorial

Glenwood offer a wide variety of ﬂoors Unit 7, Royal Rock Estate, Ballybane Industrial Estate, Galway City ● 091-755533 ● info@glenwoodflooring.ie

● West of Ireland’s Ultimate Flooring Specialist Shop ● Timber Fitting Available Nationwide (over 20 Years Experience) ● Measuring and quotation service available ● Delivery Available Nationwide McDonoghs

● New Modern

Showrooms located in Ballybane industrial Estate, Galway City

Royal Rock Cafe Glenwood Timber Flooring

Glenwood Timber Flooring Are making a big gesture in the hope of helping out everyone who has been affected by the floods in County Roscommon and Galway. We are offering free timber floor fitting with all purchases, if you were affected by the flooding. We know that this can be a devastating time for all who were struck with the flooding, so we’re hoping this can help people get back into their homes sooner rather than later. We are the West of Ireland’s newest timber floor shop. The new state-of-theart and modern showrooms are located in the very accessible Ballybane Industrial Estate, Galway City, in the Royal Rock estate. Boasting some of the biggest brands available in the market i.e. Whiteriver, Haro, Balterio, Kronotex, Kaindl, etc. With unbeatable value, elegant colours and a huge variation, Glenwood Timber Flooring is the west of Ireland’s ultimate timber floor specialist shop. Their highly experienced staff will help you find the right floor – be it solid, semi-solid or laminate – with a huge selection available. There is no job too big or small, with delivery nationwide and free measuring and quotation. For further information, call into their showrooms at Unit 7, Ballybane Industrial Estate, Galway City or call them on 091-755533.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN

Five Minute Time Saver < MIRIAM KERINS

f you’re a busy bee who spends the entire weekend trying to put the house back in order before heading out the door on Monday morning; well here’s my little tip for you. I’m the type of person who must ‘obsessively,’ hubby’s observation not mine; tidy up before heading to bed. I just cannot relax if there’s dirty dishes on the sideboard or, God forbid, cushions scattered around the room or left on the floor…I mean, why is it sooooo difficult to straighten and plump the cushions??? Therefore, before you go to bed, set your phone alarm for five minutes, make like Usain Bolt and dash around the house straightening, plumping, tidying, loading the dishwasher and generally clearing up the day’s detritus. You see, in our gaff, once you’re home

1. Is that squeaky door driving you bananas? No problem, pop into the bathroom and grab the talc! Yep, a sprinkling of talc on the hinges of a squeaky door is a quick fix solution when your handyman or handy woman is unavailable.

2. Use double sided tape underneath rugs to prevent them from sliding and you from breaking your neck!

3. This is my favourite and hubby’s best tip to me bar none. When painting, glue a paper plate to the end of the paint tin to catch the drips and stop them dropping onto the floor.

4. My Nana’s tip, when she tried to turn me into a domestic goddess – when threading a needle, make life easier by first squirting the thread with hair spray (she called it lacquer) to make it stiff. It works!

New Homes, Extensions & Renovations

Tel.: 090 6627134 or 086 2592002

Seamus Croghan Groundwork and Concrete Specialist SPECIALISING IN THE FOLLOWING Civil Engineering ● Site Clearance & Site Layout ● Raft and Strip Foundations ● Pipework and Septic Tank insulation to E.P.A. standards. ● Brick & Block paving and Kerbing ●

086 8720720

5. When painting, save a small amount; just enough for touching up scuffs and scratches, in a clean jam/marmalade jar; seal it, mark it clearly with the colour, the room and the date and safely store it until you need to use it. Much handier than storing the original large tin.

6. Use a white vinegar and salt solution to rid your cups and mugs of tea and coffee stains.

7. An open container filled

Pop a drop of pure lavender oil onto the corner of your pillow to help you relax and to aid sleep.

Supplier and Fitter of Top Quality Kitchens, Bedrooms & Sliderobes at Competitive Prices Kitchens designed to clients’s specifications Opening Hours: Monday - Friday 9am to 6pm Saturday 9am to 5pm Evenings by appointment

Large range of Solid, High Gloss and PVC Kitchens to choose from (Granite Worktops)

Our reputation is Your Guarantee

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

Ciaran Coyne

a warm (not hot) bath, sit back and relax. Lavender oil is the gentlest of essential oils, it’s also one of the most powerful; however, please follow specific guidelines carefully (for all oils); never put undiluted oils directly

onto your skin, or near your eyes, and always test for sensitivity. I’ve been using essential oils for more than twenty years having become interested in aromatherapy during my second pregnancy. Buy your oils from a

Add a pleasant scent to your hoover bag by adding a drop of orange or grapefruit oil onto a makeup remover pad and pop it into the bag.

11.

•

20 Years Experience

12. After a long day, add two/ three drops of chamomile, bergamot or lavender to

RATTIGANʼS Main Street, Elphin, Co. Roscommon Tel. (071) 96 35530 / (086) 3855263. Email: rattigankitchenselphin@eircom.net

10.

If anyone dares smoke in your home, remove the odour by adding two drops of essential oil of rosemary, eucalyptus or tea tree to a rinsed out spray bottle filled with water; shake well before spraying into the air.

Phone: email: seamuscroghan58@hotmail.com Free Quotations and Advice offered

FITTED KITCHENS, BEDROOMS & SLIDEROBES

LIMITED

Construction & Property Maintenance

with bicarbonate of soda is great for absorbing and getting rid of nasty smells when left in a room. For smelly carpets and rugs, sprinkle on some bicarbonate of soda; allow to stand for half an hour – making sure small children/pets stay out of the room – and hoover. Repeat if necessary. It works! A quick spritz into the kids’ runners with a mixture of pure, essential Tea Tree oil and water, and left to dry overnight, will kill stinky smells and bacteria. This has stood me in good stead through two teenagers who lived in their runners. To retain the freshness, add a single drop of pure, essential peppermint oil to a makeup remover pad and pop inside runners/wellies when not in use.

HOARE & SON ROSCOMMON

and have survived the day, you may, God love you, falsely think you’ve made it and can relax…er, think again. There are a few rules, like, discard mucky boots at the back door, don’t sit on the furniture in work overalls, eat biscuits over the sink…only joking about the biscuits, but, you get my drift; a little bit of daily care here and there means housework can be tackled efficiently, with the payoff being that nobody has to die. So, each night, set that alarm for five minutes and together, the pair of you can tackle the downstairs; this means you actually get the equivalent of ten whole minutes of quick clutter-free tidying up time each night leaving your weekends free to walk the dogs, go on day trips, have the hair done or stroll through the colourful Roscommon shopping areas. You’re welcome!

Nana always knows best < MIRIAM KERINS

John

www.lohanfittedfurniture.ie

reputable source and never, ever, use on young children, the elderly or when pregnant or breast feeding, unless you have first consulted a registered aromatherapy practitioner and/or your doctor.

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

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN

Miriam’s Top Ten Cash Saving Tips 1. Use old ice cube making trays for storing earrings, hair slides, rings and brooches. 2. Use empty yogurt cartons as handy storage containers for pens, pencils and paint brushes etc., 3. Use empty coffee, jam or pickle jars for storing nails, nuts, bolts and screws under the sink or in ‘the man press.’

4. Pay your bills online; it’s quicker and cheaper than driving to the post office and buying envelopes and stamps! 5. Buy a travel mug and, instead of stopping for that Latte, take your own homemade coffee to work each morning and save yourself enough to put a deposit on that summer holiday. Our entire production crew did this for one season when I worked on RTE’s The

Afternoon Show. Instead of stopping off for coffee each day, and some of us had three barista brewed coffees per day at a cost of €3.20 each; instead, we popped the money into a communal office jar and, at the end of the series, we had a substantial amount to donate to the children’s hospital. 6. Supermarkets, off-licences, chemists and book shops all offer ‘loyalty,’ cards. Why not sign up and benefit

from their discounts. 7. Cancel that unused gym membership or any other activity you’ve signed up for now. It’s March, and, if you haven’t fulfilled your New Year’ s resolution to go three times a week by now, then you’re never gonna do it. Cancel it, save it, and buy a pair of walking shoes instead. 8. We; well, hubby, burns through

batteries so he ditched the disposables years ago and instead swears by rechargeables; he claims it saves him money. 9. Use cardboard paper towel holders for storing important letters or documents, preventing creases. 10.Contact your TV/’phone/ electricity/gas provider/bank/landlord now and renegotiate contracts.

Advertorial

Colourfence – The best option to spruce up your garden For a permanent no-maintenance solution to all your fencing problems, look no further than Colourfence. Products from the Colourfence logo carry a guarantee that the purchase will sustain for 25 years without warping or corroding. A Colourfence can withstand gusts of up to 130mph and can be installed under heights of 1 to 2.1 metres. They are available in colour schemes of cream, brown, green, and blue, all of which can be mixed and matched. The fence can be fitted in its natural form or with decorative trellis, and it can be raked or stepped on sloping ground.

COLOUR FENCE

A Colourfence provides privacy to occupants, is safe for children, and there are no footholds to allow for climbing. Colourfence is the fastest growing fence company in Ireland in both the private and commercial sectors. It’s maintenance free and environmentally friendly, as you will not have to paint or treat it, unlike timber fences. Colourfence was installed in the new TV3 HD studio recently, you can see it on Ireland AM weather reports most mornings. For more information on Colourfence, phone Hugh at 086-2359559, e-mail hugh.bleahen@colourfence.ie.

AS SEEN ON TV3’S IRELAND AM

MAINTENANCE FREE FENCE!

He Said, She Said… < MIRIAM KERINS

1. “Housework won’t kill you, but then again, why take the chance?” American comedian Phyllis Diller – yer granny will remember her. 2. “It was such a special day to share with our children.” Actress Angelina Jolie-Pitt on that DIY wedding dress. 3. “It’s terrible to give kids a silver spoon.” Parenting advice Sir Elton John style. 4. “We grow food. We talk about what goes into it and how hard it is. They plant it, they water it. We take pictures next to it. I’m a geek.’’ Gardening advice from Hollywood actress Jennifer Garner. 5. When asked, “How much do you get paid to take care of this yard?” by a particularly snooty Californian matriarch, the great comedy actor Groucho Marx re-

plied, “Oh, I don’t get any money. I just get to sleep with the lady of the house!” 6. “Horticulture gave me back my life. Gardens are always the first place I go to regenerate.” Eighties pop star and gardening expert, Kim Wilde. 7. “I’m not going to vacuum until Sears makes one you can ride on” Actress/comedienne and housework hater, Roseanne Barr. 8. “My idea of superwoman is someone who scrubs her own floors.” Actress/singer, Bette Midler 9. “I make no secret of the fact that I would rather lie on a sofa than sweep beneath it. Novelist Shirley Conran. 10.“There’s so much stuff in my home. I’ve been refurbishing it for fourteen years.” Actress Drew Barrymore on how not to decorate your home.

BALLAGHADERREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON

Chainsaw Repairs, Replacement Chain and Sharpening Service Phone: 094 98 60314 (Ballaghaderreen) or 087 6950025 (Roxboro, Roscommon) Get your Garden back in shape!

Tel: Hugh on 086-2359 559

• Plants, Tool & Pump Hire • Drain Jetting and CCTV Drain Surveys • Septic Tanks emptied • Portaloo Hire

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN Damp spots on ceilings are no problem! Tired of looking at that unsightly damp patch on the living room ceiling? Fed up putting the job off for another day? Well rest assured, it’s not going to be as awkward as you think. Follow these three steps and be done with that spot! What you will need: Stain block, a paint brush (if required), a dust mask, safety goggles, a dust sheet, masking tape, a cloth and a step ladder.

How to do it: Firstly, make sure the source of the stain is fully repaired. The area must be dry before you carry out the repair. Then make sure there is no dirt or loose paint on the ceiling, if there is it can be removed by scrubbing it with a mixture of three parts water, and one part bleach. After you scrub the area off, leave it for twenty minutes, as it must be completely dry. Finally, paint or spray

stain block on to the stain and leave for the time indicated in the manufacturer’s instructions. If using a spray stain block, make sure to wear a dust mask and goggles before spraying on the damp spot. When the stain block is dry you should no longer be able to see the stain on the ceiling. In some cases you might need to apply a second coat. There you have it, it’s as easy as 1-2-3!

Advertorial

Karndean design at Lynch Flooring With a selection of high quality and beautifully finished floor designs inspired by nature and designed for living, Karndean Designflooring exclusively at Lynch Flooring will bring your home to life. With designs inspired by wood and stone and our unique iconic and LooseLay floors, Karndean will add warmth and texture to your home. Full of charm and character, as well as being effort-

lessly stylish Karndean’s Art Select Wood and Stone collections are easily maintained and classically beautiful. Come and visit Lynch Flooring on the Golf Links Road and visit our newly refurbished Karndean display area. Fore more information contact Lynch Flooring on 090 6666006/085-8017523 or email info@lynchflooring.ie. Log onto www.lynchflooring.ie and browse our collections.

Visit the newly refurbished Karndean display area exclusively at Lynch Flooring Inspired by nature and designed for living, you’ll find our floors are beautifully realistic and highly practical By offering a wide and impressive range of designs, finishes and formats, you can create a floor that’s unique to your home ust and guaranteed to last for years to come A m see! FREE MEASURING & QUOTATION SERVICE Tel. 090 66 66006 Web.: www.lynchflooring.ie

GOLF LINKS ROAD, ROSCOMMON

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN ROSCOMMON

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

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

Contact Damian at (087) 9962361

Bedroom on a Budget! < MIRIAM KERINS

ow I have to

say, I’m not one for DIY, but I’m pretty handy at barking out orders to those who are; i.e. the hubby, and so, when it comes to redecorating a small room in the house, say, the bedroom, I’ve been told I quite literally turn into a drill sergeant. You see, it all begins when watching the likes of Room to Improve or DIY SOS and I get the unquenchable urge to splurge; yet, sadly, I don’t have Michael Flatley’s budget meaning I have to make do with cutting a few corners but, luckily, that’s where your friendly and local hardware and craft shops come in handy. If you’ve got a vanity mirror hanging naked on a wall – and by naked I mean just the bare mirror hanging from a nail, why not get a vintage style stencil and stencil on a framed border around the outside of the mirror in a colour that quietly contrasts with your curtains/ blinds. Add a bit of life to that dull and bare wall by get-

ting an old ladder, sanding it down at intermittent patches and hanging it widthways, converting it into a vintagey-antiquey-distressed looking bookshelf? If you’ve got a low lying window sill, lucky you, because that means, with a contrasting cushion; one that matches your blind or window dressings, (or mirror stencil), you’ve got yourself a readymade sill seat where you can sit in

Kitchen Pendants

the sun, sip a glass of wine and read The Roscommon People. When looking for cheap and cheerful matching duvet sets and curtains, an old trick of my wizard of a mother in law’s was to have me purchase three pairs of ‘on sale’ duvet sets; and, using one set to cover the bed she’d whip me up a pair of matching curtains by cleverly transforming the other two, including adding a

French pleating feature and linings. She’d then skilfully make tie backs and a pelmet swag out of the pillow cases and use any left overs to cover old cushions for placing at the end of the beds. I remember going into a now closed shop called Guiney’s in Dublin’s Talbot Street and buying out their entire sale stock of duvet sets one January and having a never ending supply of gorgeous,

made to measure, bespoke matching curtain and duvet sets for the entire family. So you see, if you want to reawaken your bedroom, and, like me you’re full of ideas and know what you want but, sadly, have to stick to a strict budget, I hope the above will at least provide you with some useful inspiration to get those creative juices flowing and get you started.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN

Trays of Sandwiches available

Order now for your Party at home or at your Party Venue

€13

@ 13.5%) (incl VAT

per tray

Athleague – Co. Roscommon. T. 090 66 63311 / 090 66 33033. M. 087 8512921 Most improved areas for Connaughton Fuels are: Glenamaddy, Longford, Monksland and Hawthorn Drive

FREE DELIVERY to Roscommon and surrounding Counties

! S E C I R P E S E H T T A BE When you buy any €78 Trade enquiries welcome

Flo Gas 34kg

size cylinder of gas you will be entered into a Draw for a Superser Gas Heater

€105 Flo Gas 47kg

• FREE Delivery and connection if required •

Seasoned Log Bag

’S CUSTOMREITRE! U FAVO

Trade enquiries welcome

Collect 3 x 20kg Polish Doubles (for open fire)

Glotherm Coal

€17.95

40kg

Price increase due to circumstances beyond our control

s Buy 6 Lognd for €20 aREE get 7th Fge of Char

€2R53 FO

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN Tiling Contractor P A T Links Road, L Y O N S Golf Roscommon (086) 8125140 (090) 66 61402 For free consultation/ Quote BATHROOM REMODELLING

Complete start to finish service including – plumbing – electrical – carpentry – tiling - drylining Accessible Bathroom Remodelling for elderly and disabled

- No job too big or too small - All repair work carried out

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

APPROVED INSTALLER

JOHN HIBBITT

Tel:090 090 9673336 Mob: 086 2678350 9673336 Tel: Email: Mob:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie 086 2678350

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

Cheap ‘n’ cheerful kitchen and bathroom quick ﬁxes < MIRIAM KERINS

’m not really what you’d call good at baking, but I

do try and I do own a lot of utensils, (many of which I may never use). I’ve got lots of things like chopping boards, large platter dishes, trays, moulds and cutters for baking biscuits and flapjacks and stuff like that and they take up a lot of room in my kitchen presses; they’re also quite heavy, especially if you need the one at the bottom meaning you have to lift a stack of them in order to reach it. My tip is to store them all sideways, like books on a shelf, and use some mini, inexpensive, extendable curtain rods to divide them. When trying out a new recipe, in order to prevent that cook book from getting sticky, get a trouser/skirt hanger, and, in your preparation area, hook it over the knob on the press door, and with your recipe page open, hang your book from it in the same way as you’d hang your skirt! If you’ve got a miniscule bathroom and need somewhere to store towels, face cloths, loo rolls, baby wipes and hair products, get yourself down to the Euro shop and buy a load of those fabric covered wicker baskets; alternatively, buy some flower pot hangers, (you can cut out the plastic lining); then, on the way home, pop into the hardware and get some decorative coat hanger hooks and fittings and use them to hang your baskets in a line, down your bathroom wall. Now this is one of my favourites – an over and around the loo shelving unit. It’s functional and it turns that empty abyss over the cistern into a handy storage space and it’s somewhere to stand a colourful plant or a vase of fresh flowers. Over the door hangers, all my doors are adorned with these, make great places to hang bathrobes or wet towels; and, the best thing about these are…no tools, nails, hammers or DIY experts are required, just hang over the top of the door frame and walk away.

Lanesboro/Ballyleague Credit Union Tel. (043) 3321431 • Fax: (043) 3321488 Email: info@lanesboroballyleaguecu.ie Website: www.lanesboroballyleaguecu.ie

9.93% APR. €5,000.00 loan 3 year Variable Interest. 36 monthly payments of €160.16 Interest rate of 9.5% PA The total amount payable by the member will be €5,763.93 Secured loan of 5% also available.

“An Unrivalled Service”

HIGH SPEED INTERNET Across Roscommon & East Galway area FAIR USAGE POLICY APPLIES

Your Local Provider ‘Fast, Friendly, Affordable’ Eurona Telecom Group

Across Roscommon & East Galway areas

Call Roscommon on 090 6634319 • info@euronabrisknet.ie OPENING HOURS: Tuesday & Wednesday, 10am-3pm; Thursday & Friday: 10am-7pm; Saturday: 10am-1pm

Serving the community for 48 years

OUR LOAN BOOK IS OPEN

New Loan Product: Secured loan 5% Interest Rate (5.13% Apr.) Lanesboro/Ballyleague Credit Union Ltd. is regulated by The Central Bank of Ireland

• www.euronabrisknet.ie

DOMNICK CONNOLLY Sales Manager Eurona Brisknet 087 0661626

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN

Conquer kiddie clutter for good < MIRIAM KERINS

lthough I’ve no longer got teens living with me, I’d like to share my top tips for conquering their kiddie clutter because I’d hate any of you to be driven to the brink of insanity in the same way that I was, especially when my two were studying for their Junior and Leaving Cert exams and tended to use the floor as coat hangers and their own personal storage facilities. Teens view their bedrooms as a place to kip, crash and clutter; i.e. their own little apartment so, in order to make it comfortable and desirable for them, here are my top tips. Make sure any decorating projects reflect their own unique personalities; that means including them and consulting them at all times during the planning process. Try to make their space a multipurpose room for studying, sulking, entertaining friends, watching TV, playing computer games and hiding from you and the rest of the world when they need that quiet time. If space is scarce, why not create a comfy surface for writing/studying by hanging a large shelf for use as a desk, leaving the

ess In Businyears 0 over 3

Beat The Meter!

Want to Avoid Water Charges? Have you thought of an Alternative Water Supply? Rain Water Storage

Have your Own Well

Mountain Stream, River or Lake

At Waterteck we provide Filtration Systems which give you a superior quality water supply from any of the above sources. Well Drilling /Pump Installation/Water Analysis/Recommendations

WATERTECK 2000 Rooskey, South Leitrim.

07196 58976 / 086 8072249 waterteck@eircom.net www.waterteck.com

Caldra, Elphin, Co. Roscommon. Adrian Beirne

Tel: 086 8457331 email: abbrickpaving@gmail.com

AB Brickpaving

space underneath free for storing school and sports bags. Above the ‘desk’ hang their TV and a few cork/message boards where they can attach stuff/reminder notes, using drawing pins or colourful fridge magnets. Teens tend to like vi-

SCAHILLS For all your Household Needs

FLOORING SALE

Ends of Carpets 70% off This Saturday, 5th March Patrick Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Tel. 094 96 20069

Michael Hughes Heating & Plumbing Contractor Cloonmurly, Kilteevan, Roscommon

(090) 6625838 086 2226907 hughes.m.plumbing@gmail.com

brant, flashy colours, and while these are not necessarily calming tones in the same way as soft blues and violets would be, it’s their space and you need to respect that. So, if your teen wants to create a feature wall, let them, and perhaps suggest a quote,

motto or a saying from some writer or pop idol they like, one that reflects their status, mottos, or uniqueness would be a cool touch. Another idea would be to paint an area above the bed headboard in chalkboard paint where

your teen can make little notes or express themselves – my granddaughter makes little notes to herself all the time on her chalkboard – ok, they’re usually, ‘out of phone credit, text Nana to send more’ but you get my drift!

How to bring tarmac up to spec… Do you drive home from a hard day’s work to a scuffed and uneven driveway? Is it taking away from the look of your home? Those days are over thanks to our DIY expert. Follow these tips and be proud of your driveway. What you will need: Oil and drive cleaner (if required), a trowel or paint scraper, drive seal, a stiff bristle brush, a wire brush, a long pile roller with extension handle and a roller tray. How to do it: Firstly, make sure it’s a clear dry day before you begin any kind of tarmac maintenance. Remove dirt, moss or loose material using a trowel/paint scraper and by brushing with a stiff bristle brush. Secondly, if oil and grease stains are ruining the appearance of your tarmac, use quality oil and drive cleaner to get rid of them. To do this, pour the liquid over any oil marks and leave on for the time recommended in the instructions. Rinse with warm water and a hard-bristled brush and you should find that the stain has completely vanished. Next, hose down the area with a power

washer to remove all surface debris. If necessary you should patch holes in the tarmac to help create a smooth, nondented surface. There are many ways to do this, but if you’re new to DIY buying ready mixed tarmac is the best option. Then, when all the repairs have been made and the tarmac is dry, you can then use a drive sealant, which will not only rejuvenate the colour of the tarmac but protect it from the elements too. This should be applied to a clean and dry surface using a long roller as this will help to give an even coating that will stand the test of time. Before this, you need to plan how you are going to apply the seal. You will need an exit point to save you walking over the newly laid paint. Finally, leave it to dry for the time indicated in the instructions. If necessary apply a second coat. Try to leave overnight before parking cars on the tarmac or walking on it. When you get up the next morning you’ll have a dazzling driveway your neighbours will envy!

Your Heart, Your Home, Your Kitchen

Luxury Kitchens for every budget Visit our showrooms on the Galway Road or call Katrina on 09066 63555

YOUR HEART, YOUR HOME, YOUR KITCHEN! Making your Dream kitchen the heart of your home where family and friends gather. One of the most important functions of a successful kitchen space is the planning so that cooking is a pleasure and a homely atmosphere is created. Contact Katrina on 090 6663555 to book your free consultation.

“Professional Service and advice provided” Neff Master Partners

Visit our website:

www.naughtonkitchens.com

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN Plant Hire & Civil Engineering Ltd

Limited

ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON • Site Clearance & Excavation • 3 Tonne Mini-diggers & 6 Tonne Dumper • 13 - 20 Tonne Track Excavators • Tractor & Dump Trailer Hire • Groundworks & Land Reclamation • Raft & Strip Foundations, Dug & Poured • Good quality Top Soil, Rubble and Maintenance

Large and small quantities delivered or collected FOR KEENEST RATES AND FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTATIONS

Contact Tommy: 086 825 5196 Davie: 087 248 2065 Office: 090 662 8880 Fax: 090 662 8802 Email: tommyacresplant@yahoo.ie

NEILAN Garden Equipment Lanesboro Road, Roscommon

Tel.: (090) 66 27460 • Email: neilanelectrical@gmail.com • www.neilans.ie Open: Monday - Saturday 10am - 6pm

Joining the moving throng this spring? We’ve got some tips for you! < MIRIAM KERINS

re you planning

to move house this spring? Aaw, congratulations; we at The Roscommon People wish you the very best! And, in order to show you how genuinely happy we are that you’ve found the home of your dreams, we’d like to help make this exciting (and sometimes stressful) journey a bit easier by offering you some handy hints and tips because, take it from someone who knows, packing up those lifelong memories – as well as that accumulated rubbish you simply “can’t bear” to dump, is no easy task. If you can afford it, get the movers in, yes, get that local and handy ‘man with a van,’ he’s usually advertising in the classifieds of this very paper each week. Give him a call, get a quote, and, if you’re happy, give him clear instructions and head down to the shops, hair salon or get a relaxing massage and return when ‘Man with Van and Helper’ have gutted the old place. Alternatively, if you’re on a budget, start collecting those cardboard boxes now. Ask friends and family if their work places have any spare and clean cardboard or plastic boxes/ containers they’re about to pay to have recycled and save them the bother; then set aside weekends and bank holidays – and yes that means Paddy’s Day – to fill them up. Remember it’s important to label each box as to contents and destination,

making sure to mark ‘this end up, and fragile’ on any irreplaceable treasures. At this point it’s important to make sure you set aside enough items to see you and the family through the final days spent in your old home. Keep enough personal stuff like shampoo, conditioner, soap, towels etc., and cutlery, crockery, microwave and most importantly, wine glasses to toast that last meal eaten in your old gaff. In addition,

if anyone is on prescribed mediation, keep this close to hand. Before you arrive at your new home, contact the previous owners/solicitor and make sure you’ve got all the keys, the alarm code and any hints or tips regarding those tricky little locks, bolts or fiddly window latches that might lead to first night teething problems. In addition, do the same for your buyers and leave them a ‘Welcome to the Neigh-

How to deal with an airlock Massive range of Lawnmowers - push and ride on

Full service available on all brands Watch out for lawnmowers with 5 year guarantee T&C’s Apply Follow us on facebook and/or check out www.neilans.ie

Air lock in domestic taps can be a nuisance, but releasing the air is actually fairly straightforward. Here’s how! What you will need: A hosepipe. Just a hosepipe! How to do it: Firstly, attach a length of

hosepipe to the affected tap and connect the other end to a mains pipe such as the cold water tap in your kitchen. Secondly, turn on both taps to allow the pressure of the mains water to force the air back out of the pipes. Leave to run

for several minutes and then make sure to turn off the air locked tap first. Finally, when finished, undo the hose from the higher of the two taps, before releasing the lower and allowing the water in the hose to drain into the sink.

bourhood’ card with a list of things they may need to know; including a list of friendly and helpful neighbours and local takeaways. At this point I can’t stress the importance of making sure your pets are safely secured. This may mean leaving them with a family, friend or neighbour or booking them into a boarding facility for a few days while you get the family settled. Moving house is stressful enough without adding

the loss of a confused pet who has managed to break free and get lost during the confusion. In fact, if your cat/dog isn’t already microchipped, do it now and register your details so that in the event they may get lost or separated from you and they’re found and brought to a vet, shelter or pound, you can be contacted and reunited as quickly as possible. Good luck!

JT’s Blinds RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL MADE BY US DIRECT TO YOU

WHY PAY MORE - BUY DIRECT

SAVE €€€€€€€€ Also made to measure: Curtains, Romans, Cushions,etc 100’s & 100’s & 100’s of samples to choose from

Call John on 086 8142412

Email: jtblindsireland@yahoo.com

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN

Nursery makeover that won’t bend the budget! < MIRIAM KERINS

re you awaiting a

happy event this spring and need to make room for that new bundle of joy? We all know that babies don’t come cheap; and, while we all want to shower our little darlings with the very best that money can buy, it’s perhaps good to keep in mind that not everything you place in your baby’s nursery has got to be brand, spanking new. For starters; make a list of what you absolutely need, as in what are the essentials for your baby and not what you’ve heard Kim Kardashian’s rug rat is peddling on Instagram! Remember, you live in the real world and your child doesn’t need gold encrusted soothers or mini Converse booties! First of all, when it comes to the Moses basket or cot, make sure safety is your ultimate concern because this is one area where you absolutely must not scrimp. However, when it comes

to decorating the baby’s room, my advice is to get plenty of shelving because babies need lots of stuff and that stuff needs somewhere to live; and that’s preferably not on the floor where it can get dusty and dirty. My advice is to get an inexpensive bookcase, paint it and have daddy hang it on the wall; get some of those cheap fabric storage boxes and pop them into the shelves to create colourful drawers. If you’ve already got an older kid, in order to make sure he/she’s included in the new baby’s arrival preparations, set them a project and ask them to design a colourful felt mobile to hang from the ceiling; but do make sure all hanging items are well out of the baby’s reach and are secure enough that they won’t fall down on top of his/her head. If you’ve got friends who’re pregnant, (or who have toddlers), why not start up a Baby Swap Club and swap, share and rotate items you don’t need but that may be useful to oth-

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

Contact Joe on 086 6030063

EDDIE NAUGHTON FENCING (Ballinaheglish) Supplier of all types of fencing material: • Post & Rail • Security Grant Approved

Telephone: (086) 1500207

GREEN HOUSE TUNNELS Special offer 10ft x 15ft, €600 erected on site. All sizes supplied & erected on site.

ers. If you already have a chest of drawers, instead of throwing it out, why not pop down to your local hardware and buy some new handles or decorative knobs and stencil some teddy bear designs onto the drawers or doors. You

could also extend that cute teddy design to the bedroom walls with pre-made giant stencils or make a visit to your local art college and see if any of the budding students want to earn a few bob moonlighting and doing work

experience by designing a feature wall in your baby’s room. Worth a try. Whatever you do, make sure all products you use are safe, baby friendly and nontoxic and if in doubt, ask your hardware store staff for advice.

Contact: Joe Larkin, Newgrove, Kilrickle, Loughrea.

087 6829804 E: larkinlandscape@gmail.com W: www.larkinpolytunnels.com

BETTER ENERGY WARMER HOMES SCHEME

External Wall Insulation Works can be completed on houses Built prior to 2006

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN

L GES IFETI RA

Greenhouses from €1,090

S €4 AVE 00

S €3 AVE 00

3m x 3m (10ft x 10ft)

WAS €1,890

S €5 AVE 00

ALL STE ON E

VE15% SA TO

NOW ONLY €1,590

UARANT E EG M

EDS & G A SH

.ie

5m x 3m (17ft x 10ft)

4m x 3m (13ft 6” x 10ft)

WAS €2,190

WAS €2,690

NOW ONLY €1,790

NOW ONLY €2,190

S €6 AVE 40

€1 SAV ,4 E 60

ALL STEEL SHEDS ARE INSULATED, HAVE 2M WALL HEIGHT AND COME WITH 4‘6” SLIDING DOOR

6m x 4m (20ft x 13ft 6”)

6m x 3m (20ft x 10ft)

WAS €2,990

8ft x 6ft Timber Sheds from €379

NOW ONLY €2,350

10ft x 8ft Timber Sheds from €745

Standard Steel from €3,290 Upgrade Steel to Woodgrain from €3,640

€2 SAV ,2 E 00

€2 SAV ,0 E 00

ALL STEEL GARAGES ARE INSULATED, HAVE 2.1M WALL HEIGHT AND COME WITH ROLLER DOOR

8m x 5m (26ft x 17ft)

WAS €6,490

NOW ONLY €4,490

8m x 6m (26ft x 20ft)

WAS €7,190

NOW ONLY €4,990

6m x 3m Garden Chalet / Home Office from €8,990

Lifetime Guarantee | FREE Delivery Nationwide | No Maintenance Ever STEELTECH PRICE PROMISE If you can ﬁnd the same Shed cheaper, anywhere else Steeltech will refund you double the difference.

GALWAY (Tuam) 093 42682 Galway Road, Tuam, Co.Galway

GALWAY (Kilcolgan) 091 796666 Kilcolgan, Co.Galway

KERRY 066 7199988 Ballyseedy Home & Outdoor Living, Ballyseedy, Tralee, Co.Kerry

LIMERICK 061 301070 Dock Road, Co. Limerick

ATHLONE 0906 465050 Moydrum Business Park, Athlone

CORK (Fota Retail) 021 4853646 Fota Retail Park, Carrigtwohill, Co.Cork

CORK (Bishopstown) 021 486 7000 Ardrostig, (Beside Dunnes Stores) Bishopstown, Co.Cork

Carlow 059 9164564 Wexford Road, (Beside Ken Black) Carlow

MAYO 096 45216 Sligo Rd, Ballina

DUBLIN 01 4640400 Kingswood, Co.Dublin

DROGHEDA 041 9829839 Dublin Road, Julianstown (Beside Applegreen)

CARRICK-ON-SUIR 051 600 891 Waterford Road, Carrick On Suir, Co.Waterford

DUNGARVAN 024 94318 (Trihy Sawmills) Grange, Dungarvan, Co.Waterford

NORTHERN IRELAND 028 30800018 Cushendall Road, Rathkenny, Ballymena, Co.Antrim

Beside Glenore Garden Centre

Terms & Conditions Apply. E&OE. Images for Illustrative Purposes Only.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 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 4th to Monday 7th March 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 ACCOUNTANTS AND TAX ADVISERS To farmers and small businesses at fees that the small businessman can afford. Advice and consultations free. Pat Baxter & Company, Accounting Services, Clondra. Tel: (043) 3326125, (087) 2251591. Email: clondra@iol.ie Web: www.patbaxterco.ie

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

ACCOUNTS NEED HELP IN COMPLETING YOUR TAX RETURNS 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

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

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

BOUNCING CASTLES ROSCOMMON CASTLES

BOUNCING CASTLES

CHIMNEY CLEANING

BALLYGAR Bouncing Castles

BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT FOR COMMUNIONS/CONFIRMATIONS

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

CAREERS

CHIROPODIST

Super Slides – Combi Units – Sumo Suits – Activity Trailers (all weather) v– Marquee Hire - New Obstacle Courses

JUST ARRIVED Bouncing Castle Disco Dome • Keenest rates • FULLY INSURED

TEL.: (087) 2315448 or (090) 6624797 Find us on facebook

CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

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

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

Phone No: (087) 4136355

< FOR SALE: 2005 Opel Astra, 5 door. Excellent condition. One lady owner. Needs head gasket. Open to offers. Phone: 086 0517340.

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

CHIROPRACTOR

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

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

CHIROPODY

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC • BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Phone: (086) 8433433

< TWO LADIES AVAILABLE for cleaning. Anything considered. Get the job done in half the time. Please reply to Box Number: 870, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

EDT LESSONS AVAILABLE

BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland

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

BUPA & VHI Covered

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

COUNSELLING

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

Tuition in Car Car available for test

Contact: Noel Burke Ballintubber

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

Tel: 087 2798704

ADI/RSA Approved Driving Instructor Reg No. 37840

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

CLEANING SERVICES

NOEL’S Driving School

Specialising in:

Mary Lennon SRN, HSE Approved. Galway Road, Roscommon

(090) 66 26023 086 8225575

DRIVING LESSONS

087 6870248

SYL’s

School of Motoring

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

Call (085) 1348779

DOCTORS’ ROTA

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

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

Contact: 085 1348779

Paul McStay

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

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

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Classifieds DRIVING LESSONS

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

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

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

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

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

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 Learn to drive with ....

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

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Webb’s Butcher’s 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715. < FOR SALE: 70 round bales of silage, cut off clean ground and wilted. €20 per bale. Dromod area. Tel: 087 2852835. < FOR SALE: 10 bales of good quality silage, saved in June. Kilrooskey area. Tel: 086 1263367. < FOR SALE: 30 bales of hay, near Roscommon town. Phone 089 2531213 after 6pm. FOR SALE: Angus and Hereford suck calves. Bull and heifers. Call Mark 086 1996367.

• 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.

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

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc. Chainsaw work also available

Phone John on 087 2860428

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

(087) 9201818 Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

www.parklawntreeservices.com

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

● Neuromuscular therapy

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169

& orthopaedic sports massage

Gannon Environmental Services Ltd., Creggs

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

Bernard Conroy Timber Clearance Ltd Tel: 087 2533101 or 090 66 22328 Over 30 years in business

● Amatsu Therapy

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

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

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

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

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

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon

Phone: (086) 3614230

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

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

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

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

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

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

Located at Henry Street

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Tomas Christy Dineen, am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct a calving/machinery shed, a dungstead and to carry out all associated site development works at Cloonbard Td., Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Tomas Christy Dineen. The planning application may be inspected or purchased a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Kilbegly, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon Planning permission is being sought for the following development of: (a) New site entrance (b) Construction of a new two storey dwelling house (c) Construction of a domestic garage (d) Septic tank system with percolation area (e) All associated site works at the above address. Signed: F. Greene. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its Public Opening Hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such 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 We are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Joe and Paula Mannion for planning permission for the construction of an extension to existing dwelling house together with all necessary ancillary siteworks at Carrowntlieve, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Dowd & Associates Ltd., Registered Building Surveyors. Tel: 090 66 23417 Mob: 086 8546035. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its Public Opening Hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

www.morrislohan.ie ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying on behalf of Roscommon Building Company Ltd for Planning Permission to construct an extension to the rear of the ‘Tir na nOg’ Creche Facility with all associated site development works at Cluain Fraoigh, Cloonybeirne Td, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: AOL Design Ltd., Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile: (086) 8167365 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

< AVAILABLE: 6 self-catering ensuite apartments. Short or long term letting available. Main Street, Elphin. Tel Michael on 086 3212445. < TO LET: 2 bed apartment in Athleague village. Fully furnished. Tel: 087 7541730.

PAINTING & DECORATING

PAT TREACY • Painting and Decorating • Commercial & Domestic • Spray Painting • Wallpapering • Power Washing

Tel: (086) 8077313 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

ANGELA JONES • Clairvoyant • Reiki Master • Spiritual Medium • Reflexologist • Tarot Readings

For a confidential appointment Tel: 087 6926556 Lisacul, Castlerea

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Classifieds REFLEXOLOGY

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

SHOP UNIT TO LET SHOP UNIT TO LET: Would suit nail bar/ beautician/hairdresser/ barber. FOR DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT: Kieran Leavy & Associates, Elphin St., Strokestown. Tel: 071-9634737 or email: property@ kleavyauctioneer.com

SOULMATES SOULMATES - DON’T BE ALONE, LOVE IS ALL THERE IS: Find that special person for friendship and romance with like-minded people. Safe, reliable and confidential. Tel: 087 9216302/087 7720250.

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

SITUATIONS VACANT < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED: Kind experienced person required to mind 4 year old child in minders own home after school Kiltoom/Lecarrow/Knockcroghery area. Please Reply to Box No: 868, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. QUALIFIED HEAD CHEF REQUIRED WITH 5 YEARS EXPERIENCE For busy pub/restaurant Keenan’s Hotel, Bar & Restaurant, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon. Must have fluent English, with full certification and HACCP trainning. Working hours per week 35-38. Salary per annum €30,000 Apply with cv to info@ keenans.ie or Contact 043 3326098.

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

SPECIAL NOTICES

Find us on facebook

SEPTIC TANKS

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

TRACING ANCESTORS I AM TRYING TO LOCATE the Irish Ancsetors of my Great Grandparents, who were from County Roscommon. My Greatgrandfather’s name was Denis Ward, who was born in 1834 approximately. My Greatgrandmother’s name was Mary Fannon (Fannin) who was born in 1833 approximately. The couple’s first child was born in the United States (Pennsylvania) in 1855. I have been to Ireland, searching in Genealogy Centres, but so far have not had any results. If anybody has information on my ancestors, can you please contact me at the below email or postal address. I would be very grateful for any information, anyone may have. Marilyn J. Sachtjen 12917 N. North Park Road Newman Lake Washington 99025 USA < A SEVENTH SON HEALER WILL ATTEND in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon this Friday 4th March 12 noon to 4.30 p.m. Cures for depression, migrane, headaches, ear noise, blood pressure, vertigo, acne and back pain. Chest asthma, blushing, lack of confidence, nerves, stress, anxiety, eczema, psoriasis, all skin rashes, burns, fatigue, shingles etc. 100% success, No appointment needed call on day, in private. Any enquiries to 049 4335497 or mobile 086 1921955 anytime.

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

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. < CASTLEREA AREA: Leaving/Junior Certificate Maths, Irish, French. Private tuition in your own home. Phone: 086 3282437.

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.

USEFUL SERVICES

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.

WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch, Sycamore and Whitethorn. Good price paid. We are safety certified and insured. Phone: 086 2437376.

Call John 086 4679798

< FOR SALE: 40kg bag of smokeless coal, only €15 per bag, delivered. Contact Tony on 086 0703946.

HEALY’S

TURF FOR SALE in tonne bags (1 metre cubed). Delivered to Roscommon town and surrounding areas. €50 delivered. Tel: 086 8534011.

• Lawns • Gardens • Powerwashing • Firewood & Log Splitting • Turf saved and brought home

< QUALITY DRY BLACK HOPPER TURF sold in truck/lorry loads. Call 087 3831953.

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

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

General & Farm Labour

Contact Vincent on 083 4130827 < MAN AVAILABLE FOR ROOFING: roof lights fitted, re-roofing, facia board and gutter repairs, roofing, flat 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.

USEFUL SERVICES < 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. < PLASTERER AVAILABLE: New builds, extensions, dry lining, garden walls, sheds. Neat work, good rates. Tel: 087 2519912. < MAN AVAILABLE for saddlery, harness and general leather work repairs. Plus new items manufactured. Collection and delivery service. Connacht area. Tel: 086 3316593.

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

FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 27/02/2016 FIRST PRIZE €60: James Conway, c/o K Hoare SECOND PRIZE €30: Dermot McDermott, c/o K Hoare THIRD PRIZE €20: John Kerrigan 10 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Patrick Muldoon, Enda Taylor, c/o K Finan; Kayleigh, Ballymurray; F Lane, c/o K Collins; Paddy Joe Burke; Sean Fallon, c/o K Collins; Aoife Mullarkey, c/o P Kelly; PJ Kelly, Maria Delaney, Ballinagard Road; Billy Connaughton. 10 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Denis & Mary; Rita Walsh; Tanya Kelly; K Collins; K Finan; Aaron, Kirsty, Brian, Rhea and Callum, c/o K Hoare; K Collins; Kathleen Hoare; Rachel Tully; K Finan. TOTAL RECEIPTS €333. TOTAL PRIZES €260.

THANKGIVINGS PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in in my necessity (your request). There are none that can withstand your power. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands, after each prayer, say 9 Hail Marys. You must publish and it will be granted to you. C.M.B.

THANKGIVINGS THANKSGIVING Grateful thanks to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Mother Mary and all the saints. Sincere thanks F.R. PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in in my necessity (your request). There are none that can withstand your power. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands, after each prayer, say 9 Hail Marys. You must publish and it will be granted to you. A.G. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it)Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your fathers sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Never known to fail. A.G. THANKSGIVING Thanks to St. Anne, Padre Pio, St. Anthony, St. Martha and the Blessed Virgin for favours received. M.G. PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in in my necessity (your request). There are none that can withstand your power. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands, after each prayer, say 9 Hail Marys. You must publish and it will be granted to you. M.B. NOVENA TO ST. CLARE Ask St. Clare for three favours, one for business, two impossible and nine Hail Marys for nine days with lighted candle. Pray whether you believe or not. Publish on ninth day. Powerful Novena. Say ‘May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored, glorified now and forever, throughout the whole world. Amen’. Your request will be granted no matter how impossible it may seem. Prayer must be published. E.B.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

AtYourService BLINDS

BRENDAN DOOLIN

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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 fergalkelly@live.com

Fergal 086 1016899

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt: Tel: 090

9673336 Mob: 086 2678350

FARMING

Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSULATION

WINDOWS/DOORS

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Daily collection

Email:

TARMACADAM

Gerry Monaghan

CLEANING SHOWROOM:

Athlone Road, Roscommon

STEPHEN HOARE CLEANING SERVICES • ROSCOMMON

WE REPLACE AND FIT DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS

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

Donal Haughey - 086 8210710

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

WE SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories SPECIAL OFFER ON COMPOSITE DOORS

We have in stock a large range of locks, hinges, handles to suit all brands of windows and doors

www.roscommonwindows.ie

ROSCOMMON, WEST of IRELAND and BEYOND!!

CPC TRAINING

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892

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

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

WINDOW/DOORS

Contact: Gerry Monaghan

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

• SAORVIEW • FREEVIEW • Satellites • Aerials • Repairs • Installations • Upgrades • Relocations • Multi-room • Free to Air • Retuning • Home Moves • Free UK Channels • No Monthly Bills

MAL HEVEHAN Telephone: 086 8100292

E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net

VETERINARY SUPPLIES & SERVICES

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

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

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS

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

All Creatures

Gary Jameson

-VETERINARY CLINIC & Shop -

2nd Fix Carpentry

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

Munsboro, Roscommon • Fitted Kitchens & bedroom units

SERVICES AVAILABLE:

• Doors, Timber Floors • Stairs • Attic Conversions and all internal woodwork

(086) 0708833

HOME MAINTENANCE

PLEASE RING TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

GLASS WORKS TILING

ELITE CHIMNEY REPAIRS • Lining

Michael Mulryan Tiling MARBLE - PORCELAIN - MOSAIC - CERAMIC

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

Tel: (094) 96 51889 (086) 2536105

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes

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

CATHAL DOOLEY 087 6579064 Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

Knockalaughta, Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

ALL GRANT WORKS UNDERTAKEN QUOTATION FREE OF CHARGE

Boyle Glass Ballinameen, Boyle,

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

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

Member of

GROUP

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

TARMACADAM

Donamon

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

Contact Damian at (087) 9962361

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!

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Appointments GREENFIELDS CHILDCARE CENTRE AND MONTESSORI SCHOOL WE HAVE A VACANCY FOR

PART-TIME OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR 20 hours per week, Monday to Friday This position is in a busy Childcare setting and the successful candidate will have responsibility for bookkeeping, payroll, office administration and supporting the needs of a childcare service. ESSENTIAL CRITERIA • Book Keeping experience • Proficient in Excel, Word, Sage Payroll • Driving Licence and own transport DESIRABLE CRITERIA • FETAC Level 5 in Childcare • Flexibility to work in all areas of Childcare Garda Clearance is a requirement for this position

newsbriefs

Regan’s Bar & Restaurant Market Square, Roscommon

If you are a HEAD CHEF with creativity, passion, drive and organisational skills, we’d like to talk to you

Email your CV to: Roscommon1800@gmail.com

Closing date for applications is 5pm Thursday 10th March Canvassing will disqualify

Please forward your CV to:

Lisa O’Neill, Greenfields Childcare & Montessori Centre, Lisnamult, Roscommon.

FULL/PART time Chef with Pastry Experience. Bar staff & must be available to work evenings/ nights midweek & have previous experience.

DUTY MANAGER Supermac’s and Papa John’s are currently looking to recruit a Duty Manager Full-Time for Casey’s Supermac’s in Roscommon Town. The Duty Manager will assist in the smooth running of the Restaurant, whilst providing leadership to their team, dealing with the day to day operations, customer service, people management and food quality. The successful candidate will have a minimum of 1 years experience in the catering/hospitality sector and possess excellent organisational, planning and communication skills and be a people person. You should be professional with good organisational and communication skills, and possess management/supervisory experience in the catering sector and Fast Food/Pizza experience is desirable. You will work in a busy environment, where people are your most important assest in achieving success. Applicants will not be considered in the recruitment process if they do not meet the above criteria. Supermac’s is an equal opportunities employer

CATERING STAFF The Supermac’s franchanised store in Roscommon are actively seeking Full-Time and Part-Time enthusiastic and customer focused catering staff. Catering Assistants provide ongoing support to the Management Team to ensure Supermac’s customers receive the best quality, service and cleanliness each time they visit a Supermac’s Restaurant. The successful candidates will have a good outgoing personality, who enjoys dealing with the public. The role may suit someone wishing to return to work or as a stepping stone to a career in the catering business. Candidates must also have fluent English and be flexible to work various shifts including weekends. TO APPLY: Please submit an up-to-date CV along with Covering Letter stating job position to Jim McCausland, Casey’s Supermacs, Roscommon. You must quote the job title in all correspondence. Due to the large number of applications received on a daily basis, we can only respond to successful candidates. Supermac’s is an equal opportunities employer

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

PLANNING NOTICES EXTRA ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying for planning permission, on behalf of Michael and Fran Newton, to retain a dwellinghouse and septic tank system as constructed at Carkfree Townland, Ballinameen. Signed: Mary O’Hara & Associates, Civil Engineering Consultants, Market Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. 094 98 61515. The planning application may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable costs of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL - REVISED PLANS I, Conor Sarsfield, give notice that significant revised plans have been furnished to Roscommon County Council in relation to Planning Application Ref. no. PD15/125 at Laragh and Ross, Ballymoe, Co. Roscommon. The significant revised plans are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours (9.30am – 1.00pm and 2.00pm – 4.30pm) and a submission or observation in relation to the revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 not later than two weeks after receipt of the newspaper notice and the site notice by the planning authority. There will be no fee payable on a further submission/observation if it is accompanied by a copy of the acknowledgement of a previous submission/observation.

Signed: Conor Sarsfield.

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

Ballinasloe – ﬁt for anything! This week marks week 5 of Ballinasloe’s Fit Town Programme and it has been a huge success with

scheduled programmes fully booked and many oversubscribed. Groups like the Ballinasloe & District Road Runners are making huge inroads with numbers reaching over 100 for most training sessions. Other success stories include Ballinasloe Cycling Club’s Couch to 40k and the Walking Programme led by Liam Roche and the Rosway Walking Club, Men on the Move with Shirley Hynes Keating, Tennis for Beginners, Golf for Kids, Yoga, Swimming, Aqua Aerobics, Dancing, Art Action, Circuits, Stage Performance to name but a few. Ballinasloe’s active retirement group are getting overactive every Tuesday morning at the GAA Clubhouse where Eilis Ryan puts them through their paces. The community has come alive over the last six weeks setting a new trend for Hi-Vis outerwear! Last weekend saw the second ‘Farm Walk and Nutrition Talk’ hosted by Padraig and Una Fahy from Beechlawn Organic Farm and Nutritional Therapist, Honor Geraghty with ‘Let’s Talk Nutrition’. Health and Wellbeing was also the theme for our second Community Hearts seminar held in Gullane’s Hotel on Monday evening with Maureen Cahalan. Our schools network have taken the Fit Town project and ran with it, with danceathons, skipathons, circuits, yoga, active homework, cycle workshops, bootcamp with Tommie Costello and Cuckoo Hill just a few of the activities on offer for our Fit Town juniors. Many of the schools have been actively encouraging children to walk and cycle to and from the school through their active travel programmes. The ‘Healthy Little Me’ competition which was pitched at both primary and post primary schools and sponsored by both the Ballinasloe Library and Credit Union has drawn to a close this week. Competition results and prize giving will take place in the new library on Tuesday, 8th March at 6 pm. As final week approaches, plans are well underway for a Fit Town Celebration Day which will take place at the GAA Clubhouse on Sunday, 13th March. Members of the community are invited to take part in a ‘Community Walk’ leaving the clubhouse at 12.45 pm. The Ballinasloe Fair and Festival Committee are also on board to launch a Fit Town Dance competition for participating kids and teens and video entries will be running over the course of the day on a big screen – results and prizegiving will also take place on the day. For full details of Fit Town action log onto Ballinasloe website @www.ballinasloe.ie/fittown or for regular updates follow facebook ‘Fit Town Ballinasloe’ or Twitter @Fitballinasloe.

TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

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

TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

The Farm Walk has been a hugely successful part of the Ballinasloe Fit Town programme.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES NAUGHTON Martin

CONNOR Frank

DEVANEY Paul

CUNNINGHAM Paddy (Pat Joe)

MARTIN John

Mount Parnassus, Hill of Berries, Athlone (1st Anniversary)

Araghty, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Who died 12th March 2011

Leahive, Creggs, Co. Galway Died 9th March 2015

Keelogues East, Glinsk, Co. Galway. 60th Birthday Remembrance on March 1st 2016 30th Anniversary on 7th of March 2016

Bushfield, Castlerea (14th Anniversary)

Uasal ceird an oide: Mar rí ar imeall trá Chuir ar toinn na soithigh ‘s sheol go hoscailt bá.

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

Loved and sorely missed everyday by Marie, Ciarán, Shane, Aoife and extended family. Anniversary Mass in Church of Risen Christ, Ballybay, Kiltoom, on Sunday March 6th at 11.30am.

Always remembered by his wife Celia and extended family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague on Saturday 5th March at 7pm.

GROGAN Ger-Michael

DUFFY Martin

Who died 10th March 2002 R.I.P. (14th Atnniversary)

(5th Anniversary) In loving memory of Martin Duffy Culleen, Knockcroghery and Derryneil, Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 23rd February 2011 R.I.P

Will those who think of Ger-Michael today, A prayer to Jesus and Mary say.

Greatly loved and sadly missed by Mum and Dad, brother, sister, sister-in law, nephews, niece, aunts, uncles, relatives and friends. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church Roscommon on Thursday 10th March at 10.30am.

Another year has passed away, So many things have happened, We wanted you to share. So many times we thought of you and wished that you were here. Your memories are so precious, Your presence missed so much, You will always be remembered and loved by all of us.

Sadly missed by wife Marie, daughters Amanda and Martina, sons Loughlinn and Michael, grandchildren Kate, Hannah, Matthew, Ebha, Isobella, Anthony and Adam, daughters-inlaw Martina and Louise, brothers, sisters and families. Anniversary Mass in Knockcroghery Church on Saturday 5th March 2016 at 7pm.

Ros Memorials

As we approach the First Anniversary of Paul’s death, his wife Bettina, daughter Tara, son Paul, mother Mary, sisters Theresa, Fiona, Yvonne, brothers Thomas, Francis and Joe and extended family wish to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone who sympathised and supported us on the sudden loss of our beloved Paul. We are thankful to our relatives, friends and neighbours who supported us at this difficult time, from the moment we got the news and for many months afterwards to help us in any way they could. Your love, friendship and support have made more bearable the very bleak year since Paul’s sudden death in London. We appreciate all of you who called to our homes, attended at the Funeral, sent Mass Cards, floral tributes, letters, brought food, offered heartfelt condolences and shared treasured memories. We were overwhelmed by the thoughtful generosity of you all. A special word of thanks to the gravediggers who prepared Paul’s resting place so beautifully and to the Altar Servers, the choir ad Fr. Pat Hogan and Fr. John McCarthy who helped celebrate Paul’s Funeral Mass. Thanks to all Paul’s friends, and Creggs National School and Colaiste Mhuire Ballygar who formed Guards of Honour. Our sincere and heartfelt thanks to Pat Smyth for his truly outstanding professionalism, organisation and care of Paul’s repatriation and Funeral. Thank you to Paul’s employers, Tunnelcraft Limited, London and to his friends and colleagues in that organisation. As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually, we hope you will take this as a token of our sincere appreciation and gratitude. Paul will be forever loved and missed by us all. Paul’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday March 6th in St. Mary’s Church, Kilbegnet at 11.30am.

You may be thirty years gone, But great memories live on, In God’s care you rest above, In our hearts you rest with love.

Sadly missed and always lovingly remembered by Tom, Ursula and family and brother Jimmy.

CUNNINGHAM Pat Cherished memories of a dear brother, Pat, whose 30th Anniversary occurs on 7th March and whose 60th Birthday occured on 1st March We cannot send a birthday card Your hand we cannot touch But God will take our greetings To the one we love so much. Thinking of you on your birthday with sadness in our heart For a very special brother From whom we had part.

Love from your sister Ann, brother-in-law Liam and Darragh, Deirdre and Pádraic.

CUNNINGHAM Patrick Formerly of Keelogues East In loving memory of a dear brother, Pat, whose 60th Birthday occurs on March 1st and 30th Anniversary occurs on March 7th R.I.P. Loving memories keep you near As time unfolds another year Deep are the memories Precious they stay No passing of time can take them away.

Loved and remembered always by your sister Geraldine and brother-inlaw James.

In loving memory of a dear husband, father, and grandfather, who died on 26th February 2002 We cannot stop the hands of time Nor live again the past But we will love and think of you As long as life will last.

LAMBERT Mary (Mae) Clooneygrasson, Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Who passed away peacefully on January 31st 2016

Always remembered and missed by Francie and family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 6th March at 11am in Ballinaheglish Church.

KEEGAN Bridie Muff, Castlecoote,Roscommon (18th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our dear Aunt Bridie who died on 6th March 1998 We hold you close within our hearts, And there you shall remain, To walk with us throughout our lives, Until we meet again. So rest in peace dear Bridie, And thanks for all you have done, We pray that God has given you, The crown you have truly won.

Sadly missed by her nephews Canon Joe, Kevin, niece Moria, niece-in-law Bernie, nephew-in-law Christy and grandnieces and nephews. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 6th of March 2016 at 11.30am in Fuerty Church.

Mae’s daughters Maura and Kathleen, sons Micheal, Hubert, Eamon, John, Gerard, Kevin and Noel, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, brother, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, would like to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to everyone who sympathised with us on our very sad loss of Mae. Thanks to all who called to our home, telephoned, attended the Wake, Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial, sent Mass Cards, letters, floral tributes and to everyone who travelled long distances. Your kindness is greatly appreciated. A very special thanks to Fr. Joe Poole and Fr. Pat O’Toole, for their spiritual support to Mae during their regular visits to her home and to all the Priests who assisted at the Removal and the very thoughtful, reflective and comforting con-celebrated Mass. Thank you to all who participated in Mae’s Requiem Mass, to Frances and Annette Griffin for their beautiful music and to the Mass Servers. A very special thanks to Dr. Brogan and John Tully and their staff for the many years of support to Mae. A very special thank you to the kind and wonderful carers and Public Health Nurses who provided outstanding care and attention to Mae in her home throughout the years. To the Doctors and Nurses in Portiuncula Hospital Ballinasloe who cared for Mae, we are very grateful. A very special thanks to the Ballymoe Community Centre Committee and Ballymoe ladies club who helped with the catering on the evening of the Removal. Many thanks for all the generous donations to Cuisle Wheelchair Association. A special thanks to Niall Flanagan Undertakers for their kindness and dignified manner in which they carried out Mae’s Funeral arrangements. A special thanks to the gravediggers who prepared Mae’s final resting place with care and dignity. Many thanks to the communities of Ballymoe and Ballintubber for the many years of support and happiness they gave to Mae. Our sincere thanks to Mae’s loyal friends for their friendship, kindness and generosity to her during her long life. A special thanks to our wonderful neighbours, friends and relatives who supported us in so many ways since Mae’s death. Mae will be forever loved and missed by us all. It is not possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere thanks and appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Mae’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place in St. Croan’s Church, Ballymoe, Co. Galway on Saturday, the 5th March 2016 at 12 midday.

May his gentle soul Rest in Peace.

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 04 March 2016

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES

KELLEHER Jim

DUIGNAN Seamus

(8th Anniversary)

Ardsallagh, Roscommon (10th Anniversary) Who died on 15th March 2006

Gone is the face we loved so dear Silent is the voice we loved to hear Death leaves a heartache No one can heal Love leaves a memory No one can steal.

Anniversary Mass on Friday 4th March at 8 o’clock in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

In loving memory of Seamus Duignan Fondly remembered by his wife Eileen, family and friends. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday 8th March at 10.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

LENNON Michael and Kathleen Cloonmurray, Strokestown

In loving memory of Michael, who died on 14th March 1999 and Kathleen who died 13 January 2013 Fondly remembered by their loving family. Remembrance Mass in Tulsk Church on Sunday, 6th March 2016 at 11.30am.

KELLY Martin, Annie and Marty

In loving memory of Martin and Annie Kelly, Tonlagee, who died on 11th January 1989 and February 16th 1998 and their son Marty (Martin) who died on 31st March 1988 R.I.P. Ye’re resting place I visit And say a little prayer But no one knows the heartache As I turn and leave ye there.

Sadly missed by Marie, Barbara, Stephen, Jason, Lori, Nathan, Joshua, Hannah and Jacinta.

LYNCH Eamon and Kathleen Motepark, Roscommon (3rd and 17th Annviersaries)

GALVIN John Cloonloughlin, Mount Talbot, Roscommon (14th Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear husband and father who died on March 8th 2002 R.I.P.

No special day is needed, For us to think of you, You are always in our thoughts, No matter what we do. Your resting place we visit, And say a little prayer, But no one knows the heartache, As we turn and leave you there.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife and family. Anniversary Mass in Tisrara Church on Sunday, March 6th at 11am.

CARR Michael Caldra, Strokestown

In loving memory of Michael Carr, Caldra, Strokestown Died March 2nd 2001 The hands of time keep turning 15 years have passed away But in our hearts and memories You are with us every day.

Lovingly remembered by your beloved wife Genevieve, Emma, Ruth, Michael, Fergal and James.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon

Death changes everything! Time changes nothing. We still miss the sound of your voice, The wisdom in your advice The stories of your life and just being in your presence. So no, time changes nothing. We miss you as much today as we did the day you died. We just miss you both!

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Monday 7th March at 7pm.

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

REGAN Etta

REGAN Joe

DIFFLEY Bridie

BRENNAN Paddy

Clooneen Hartland, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Died 2nd March 2015

Corgowan, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Died March 6th, 2014 (2nd Anniversary)

(3rd Anniversary) Late of Johnsport, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon Died on 11th March 2013

5 Abbey Court, Roscommon Died 1st March 2015 (1st Anniversary)

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

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

On the 1st Anniversary of Etta’s death, her son Michael, daughters Mari and Pauline, together with our extended family, would like to express our sincere gratitude to all who sympathised with us on our recent sad loss of Etta. We would like to thank the staff of Mullingar General Hospital for the kindness and care shown to Etta and us, her family, during her final days with us. To the wonderful staff of Innis Ree Lodge Nursing Home, whose love, care and compassion shown to Etta during her 4 years with them, made Innis Ree Lodge a ‘home from home’ for her, a heartfelt thank you from all Etta’s family. To all those who called to the house, travelled long distances to be with us, sent Mass Cards, Enrolments, floral tributes and attended Etta’s Funeral, a sincere thank you. To all our wonderful neighbours and friends, who helped out in so many ways, we will be forever grateful for your kindness and support. To Fr. Ciaran Whitney, Fr. Kevin Fallon, Fr Brian Conlon, the beautiful choir and Raymond Diffley, who all contributed to making Etta’s Funeral Mass so special, thank you. We thank our Undertaker, Pat McHugh for the kindness and consideration shown to us throughout Etta’s Funeral. We hope this acknowledgement will be accepted as a token of our appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for all your intentions. Etta’s 1st Anniversary Mass, and her son Joe’s 2nd Anniversary Mass is on Friday March 4th at 7pm in Sacred Heart Church, Kilglass.

Never more than a thought away, loved and remembered everyday, by his wife Pearl and children Robert, Joanna, Hazel, Gillian and Abby. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Silent memories keep you near, As time unfolds another year, Out of our lives you may be gone, But in our hearts you still live on.

Lovingly remembered by all her family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 6th March at 11.30am in St. John’s Church Lecarrow.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

McCORMACK Ronan Patrick Birthday Remembrance - Monday 7th March

Loved and remembered by Mick, Mari, Pauline and extended family. Anniversary Mass on Friday, March 4th at 7pm in Sacred Heart Church, Kilglass.

MEMORIAL MASS KELLY Kenneth Lanesborough/Boston USA

Memorial Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Lanesborough on Saturday March 5th at 12:00 noon. Sadly missed by his wife Kim, children Michael and Samantha, parents Thomas Kelly, Kathleen Kearney Kelly, brothers Niall and Alan and his many relatives and friends.

Remembering Ronan, late of Gortgallon, Lanesboro and Roscommon BIRTHDAY WISHES To send today To a star up in the sky. Engraved in gold, On a cloud above, Just for you, Ronan with all my love, I have a gift you cannot see Of cherished love and memories. This special gift the Angels bring Is priceless though, Weighs not a thing. Carried through the sunlit skies, On wings of doves and butterflies. A Birthday wish, Gift-wrapped with love, To the son I’ve lost, Resting with God above.

Lovingly remembered forever in our hearts and prayers, your dear mum Jeanette, Granny Margaret, Godfather John, uncles, cousins, extended family and friends. Masses offered.

Paddy’s family wish to thank most sincerely all who sympathised with them on their sad loss. Thank you to all those who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial and all who sent Mass Cards and messages of sympathy. Thank you to Clare and Teresa, who looked after Paddy for so long. To Vera and her staff who was so good to Paddy in Day Care, Sacred Heart Hospital. He so loved the Day Care. Thank you very much. Thank you to Fr. John McManus for saying his Funeral Mass. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation and gratitude. First Anniversary Mass on Friday 11th March in Ballagh Church at 8pm. Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

SportsPeople Convent ready for All-Ireland test All-Ireland Colleges Senior Camogie ‘C’ Championship Final: Convent of Mercy Roscommon v St. Joseph’s, Rochfortbridge. Saturday in Rochfortbridge at 3.15 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

The Convent of Mercy senior camogie team can write another chapter in the rich history of sporting achievement at the school when they face St. Joseph’s, Rochfortbridge in the All-Ireland ‘C’ final on Saturday. The school have a fantastic sporting record in a variety of sports in recent years and now it is the turn of the camogie team to take centre stage. Camogie at underage level is enjoying a very successful period in the county and two of the players who will line out on Saturday will have been part of Roscommon‘s win at All-Ireland minor level last year, Rachel Fitzmaurice and Niamh Farrell.

The team are managed jointly by Teresa Hession and Edel Connolly and earlier this week Teresa Hession told the Roscommon People about preparations for the final. “We are really looking forward to this final but the school is doing really well in sport in general. We have teams in soccer, and ladies football playing at All-Ireland level this year alone. But we appreciate being in an All-Ireland final and it’s nice to be there. “We have a strong panel. There are only a handful of players overage for the County Minor panel this year. The panel are made up of players from Tulsk, St. Dominic’s, Oran, Four Roads, Athleague and Roscommon Gaels.

Annmarie Murray, Fiona Tully and Rachel Fitzmaurice prepare for the All-Ireland. Picture: Andrew Fox

“We had fallen down the ranks a bit but we are on the way back up again. We played St. Cuan’s twice in Connacht including in the final and we beat them well in that. Then we had to face the Dublin area champions, Dunshaughlin, in the quarter-final in Trim and we won by two points after a huge battle on a terrible day weather wise. Then we played Carrigaline in the semi-final in Lisnamult and we won that so we have had a good campaign. “Rochfortbridge are a good side and are a bit like ourselves. They would be drawing from the clubs close to them and they would be strong in places like Raharney and other clubs like that. They were in the All-Ireland Junior ‘B’ semi-final last week so a

lot of those players will probably feature again on Saturday against us. They have plenty of good young players so we will be up against it. “There is plenty of excitement around the school this week and there are flags and posters going up and it’s great for the morale in the school to be in an All Ireland final. We have a huge emphasis in sport here in this school, which is probably unusual for a girls’ school. We are competing in 16 different sports at a competitive level. It’s great to see them playing a number of sports. A lot of the girls play football and other sports as well. But it is really exciting to be in this AllIreland final and we will be hoping we can play well and win it,” she concluded.

Views of joint captains < SEAMUS DUKE

Joint team captain, Eala Ni Chumhaill (Athleague) said: “We are really looking forward to this game. We can’t wait for it. Rochfortbridge are a good side and we hear they have plenty of pace particularly in attack so we are preparing for that in training. I also play football for St. Ciaran’s and enjoy that too. It would be fantastic to win this final and we have a fantastic spirit among the girls on the panel.” Fellow joint team captain Rachel Dolan (St. Dominic’s) said: “We are so looking forward to this match. This team have been playing camogie together for six years so there is a great spirit in the team and on the panel. Our joint managers Teresa and Edel are fantastic to work with and we couldn’t have better. A pair of legends they are. It would be fantastic to captain this team after playing together for six years and we are like one big family. We will have a big following and hopefully we can bring home the cup.”

Hurlers to continue unbeaten run? Allianz National Hurling League Div 3A: Roscommon v Fingal on Sunday in Athleague at 1 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

Eamon Flanagan will be looking to continue his and Roscommon’s good form as they take on Fingal in Athleague this Sunday.

The Roscommon hurlers put their unbeaten run on the line when they tackle Fingal in Athleague on Sunday. Justin Campbell’s men have made a solid if unspectacular start to the league with two wins and another win here would bring promotion into focus with two games remaining after this. A two-point win against Louth was followed by a more comprehensive win against Monaghan. Although Fingal will provide a stern test on Sunday, Roscom-

mon have got the better of them in recent seasons and it would be a disappointment if Roscommon were not to win it. I am expecting that the Roscommon team will be along the same lines as the one we saw against Monaghan two weeks ago. Noel Fallon is playing well in goals while in front of him Peter Kellehan is doing really well at full-back. Micheal Kelly will, once again, provide the inspiration at centre half-back while Alan Moore, Ciaran Shaw, Shane Curley and Warren Boyle are likely starters in defence too.

Eamon Flanagan and Cathal Dolan have been doing well at midfield and they should feature on Sunday. Up front Gerry Fallon will be on free-taking duty while Adrian Murphy, Cillian Egan, Ronan O’Meara, Jason Kilkenny, Johnny Moran and Jamie Lawlor will

all be in contention for places in attack. Fingal will provide tough opposition but I expect another Roscommon win to keep them on course for promotion and a place in the Division 3A final later in the year. Prediction: Roscommon.

Referees course at County Board ofﬁces The course for new football referees takes place in the County Board office on the Racecourse Road, on Monday night next (7th March) at 8 pm. If you are interested in doing this course – and have not yet contacted the County Referee Administrator – please do so by email to hauliebeirne@ gmail.com or call 086-8293845.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

SportsPeople

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

Airtricity League: It’s not La Liga, but it’s ours! < DAN DOONER

In case you missed it, the 2016 Airtricity League was launched last week. That’s the league staged in Ireland and competed for by teams with funny Oirish names like Shamrock Rovers and Dundalk and the quaintly named Finn Harps. Sure, there’s no Diego Costas or Alexis Sanchezes, but the tickets are cheaper and you don’t have to put up with Ryanair legroom to watch it. National broadcaster, RTE, even got around to advertising it earlier this week. Grand bit of filler for them ahead of The Late Late show every Friday evening! Oh and don’t forget the highlights show which can usually be viewed Monday nights. The live TV coverage hasn’t always been popular, however, Shamrock Rovers claimed that it kept fans away from the games. Although at some of these grounds, the facilities don’t help either. Let’s be honest here though, there’s no way our national league will thrive without the support of fans and media across Ireland. It’s far from perfect, but with the right marketing and strong support it can be something which continues to produce players like Shane

Long and Kevin Doyle if not a Diego and or an Alexis.

Local scene Meanwhile, back in Roscommon, the fourth round of the Connacht Cup took centrestage last weekend and overall it was a bad day at the office for teams from the Roscommon & District League. Premier Division leaders Ballinasloe Town displayed all their skill and experience during an excellent 4-0 win over Castlebar Celtic away from home. The visitors silenced the home support by racing into a 3-0 lead in the first half with goals from Mark Duffy, Peter Keighery and Liam Lynch. Jordan O’Leary added a fourth in the second half. Skyvalley Rovers endured a miserable trip to Renmore going down 1-0 to the Galway side. Castlerea Celtic were slightly unfortunate to lose 2-0 away to the Galway Premier side Mervue United. Castlerea created plenty of chances, even hitting the woodwork twice before Mervue opened the scoring. Barry Moran scored one in each half for the Galway team. Elsehwhere, Dysart were beaten 4-1 away to the Galway Premier side West United. Johnny Coyne

scored their goal. Moore United were surprisingly beaten 2-1 by NUI Galway’s second string in Galway. St. John’s Athletic didn’t fare any better and were beaten 3-1 away to Ballina Town. Tommie Hurley scored their goal. In the Connacht Shield, Shiven Rovers came from behind to lead 2-1 against Loughrea FC away from home with five minutes to play. They then proceeded to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory and concede two late goals to go down 3-2. Shane Harkin with a brace for Rovers. The Ballinlough side Lough Harps were involved in an eight goal thriller at home before they were beaten 5-3 after extra-time by the Galway side Barna Furbo United. Harps were 3-0 ahead with sixty-five minutes played thanks to Kevin Lynch, Michael Golden and Stephen Comer. However the Barna Furbo class shone through and they struck back with three late goals to send the game to extra-time. They completed an excellent comeback in extra-time to go through to the fourth round. In Norio’s Division One Kilkerrin United beat Rahara Rovers 3-0 in Rahara. Damien Mahon scored their first and Keith McMahon converted a pen-

The Lough Harps side which went down 5-3 after extra-time to an impressive Barna Furbo United side in the Connacht Shield last weekend.

alty kick before Tommie Curley put the icing on the cake. A young Loughglynn United side were beaten 2-0 at home by a much improved Ahascragh United. Both teams created chances in an exciting game with Kenny English finally breaking the deadlock with eighteen

minutes played in the second half. Colin Concannon sealed all three points for Ahascragh when he scored a second ten minutes later. Ballinasloe Town were held to a 1-1 draw at home to Glen Celtic. Luke Connelly opened the scoring for the Glenamaddy side after twenty-five min-

United three minutes later. The Castleplunkett side CP Ajax beat MD Town 4-1 at Milltown. Ajax were 1-0 ahead thanks to an own goal and Dean Burns added a second before Damian Fetherstone added two more. Shane Gleeson scored for the Milltown Dunmore side.

The Airtricity League kicks off this week, which can only mean that summer isn’t far away!

This week’s Awards…

Soccer Results Friday, 4th March The Herald Premier Division (8 pm) Castlerea Celtic v MD Town Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (7.45 pm) Shiven Rovers v Loughglynn Utd

Team of the Week

Saturday, 5th March (7.45 pm) The Herald Premier Division Moore United v Cloonfad United

this n winning a lot of plaudits h a Ballinasloe Town have bee ified the hype wit just y the d ken wee last Cup. season and ar Celtic in the Connacht convincing win over Castleb

Moan of the Week have Irish football and it would 2016 is a huge year for push in marketing the Airtricity ger big s and been nice to see a to see more league club League. It would be greatschools, etc. and s players at local club

for The DiCaprio Award Sideline Protests of his often leave the confines Louis van Gaal doesn’t s… bench, but when he doe

utes of play before Brian Campbell struck an equaliser for Ballinasloe just five minutes later. In Division Two, Moore United drew 1-1 with Cloonfad United at home. James McDonagh gave Cloonfad United a deserved lead after only five minutes before Shane Kenny replied for Moore

And the Oscar goes to…Louis van Gaal does his best to get his point across to match officials last Sunday.

Sunday, 6th March (2 pm) The Herald Premier Division Ballaghaderreen FC v Dysart FC Ballymoe FC v Castlerea Celtic Skyvalley Rovers v St. John’s Athletic Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 Loughglynn United v Glen Celtic Ahascragh United v Rahara Rovers Brazukas v Kilkerrin United Ballinasloe Town v Shiven Rovers (12 pm) Killeen Sports Ground Division 2 CP Ajax Moore v United Lough Harps v Skyvalley Rovers KC Celtic v Roscommon United St. John’s Athletic v MD Town

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

SportsPeople This weekend’s action

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

Following an inspection yesterday racing in Ireland today at Clonmel is off due to a waterlogged course. Friday features flat racing on the on the all-weather at Dundalk with stalls opening for the first at 6.00 pm. Saturday is Tetratema Cup day for hunter chaser with the Grade B Shamrock Handicap Chase at Gowran Park where racing starts with tapes back for the first at 2.10 pm. On Sunday there is national hunt card at Naas in featuring the Grade 3 Directors Plate Novice Chase and racing starts at 2.10 pm. The ground will be heavy at Gowran on Saturday, with standard going at Dundalk tomorrow. Going is soft, soft to heavy in places, at Naas on Sunday as we go to press. The Meydan racing carnival starts this weekend and Ryan Moore rides the Eddie Lynam trained Sole Power in the Meydan Sprint on Saturday, a race the 9-Y-O has finished runner up in 2012 and 2013. He won the Al Quoz Sprint last year at Meydan worth over €2m and has run well in one or other of the big sprint races since 2012.

Review of the week Following an 8.00 am course inspection yesterday morning racing at Downpatrick was cancelled following overnight rain and snow.

Cheltenham Watch There are 14 of 32 horses entered in the Champion Bumper trained in Ireland. Ten are from Willie Mullins’ Closutton yard in-

cluding the fancied Augusta Kate, Castello Sforza and Battleford. Aidan O’Brien’s dual bumper winner Aspen Colorado, Dermot Weld’s First Figaro, Jessica Harrington’s New To This Town and Tom Hogan’s Winsome Bucks complete the Irish interest. Colin Tizzard’s Cue Card, having won the Betfair Chase and William Hill King George VI Chase this season, is in line for a £1million bonus in the Gold Cup courtesy of the Jockey Club-backed ‘Triple Crown’ of chasing. He has plenty of experience of the Prestbury Park hill having successfully negotiated it 4 times. He won the Champion Bumper in 2010 followed up by a Grade 2 novice hurdle in November that year, a novice chase in October 2011 and the Ryanair in 2013. Henry Higgins, trained by Charles O’Brien, misses the Coral Cup for which he qualifies for a €100k sponsor’s bonus having won the Coral.ie Hurdle at Leopardstown. Charles, son of Vincent, is aiming JP McManus’s charge for the County Hurdle named after his father and is one of 96 entries in the 2m1f handicap. The dual Olympic champion cyclist Victoria Pendleton rode her first winner yesterday at Wincanton on Pachu Du Polder by 29l from Big Fella Thanks. She hopes to ride the winner in the St James’s Place Foxhunter Chase at the Festival. Colin Tizzard wasted no time in securing the services of top Irish amateur Derek O’Connor for his 6-Y-O Native River in the National Hunt Chase, a race O’Connor won aboard Chicago Grey in 2011. Native River is 8/1 from 12’s for the race but make sure you back it with a run. Mick Channon trained Somersby could

Henry Higgins skips the last on the nearside of Kalkir at Leopardstown in January.

run in his eighth consecutive Cheltenham Festival. He is expected to bypass the Champion Chase in which he has finished runner-up for the last 2 years and go for the Grand Annual Handicap Chase.

General News Do you enjoy board games? Monopoly for racing fans to mark the 350th anniversary of racing at Newmarket is about to be issued with a racing theme. Instead of streets there will be stables and studs with thoroughbred horses and stallions instead of houses and hotels and Jail is replaced with The Stewards Room. As a man who enjoys Monopoly I’m looking forward to it.

Point to Point View Saturday sees racing at Tyrella in the north on a very scenic track looking out over the Irish Sea starting at 1.30pm. Even with the cancellation of Lemonfield in Limerick it’s still a very busy day in the south on Sunday with 3 meetings spread across the country. The Carlow Farmers hold their meeting at Borris House, the West Waterford’s at Lismore and much nearer home the South Westmeaths race at The Pigeons near Glasson. Carlow will start at 1.00pm an hour earlier than originally scheduled, The Pigeons off half an hour later at 1.00pm and West Waterford race at 2.00pm. With the inclement weather ensure any meeting you may decide to go to is actually on before leaving home at the weekend.

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE Creggs progress in the Connacht Cup Westport RFC 10 Creggs RFC 38: Creggs U-15s travelled to the foot of Croagh Patrick to play Westport RFC in the first round of the cup last Sunday. Westport started strongly and should have scored first but some excellent defence from Creggs pair John McDonald and Jack Hanley just keep the Mayo boys out and Creggs out-half Mark Purcell cleared upfield. Creggs won the line-out and full-back Aaron Hannon crossed over for the first try after just 6 minutes which was converted. The Creggs pack was now in the ascendancy and powerful metres were being made by Jack Keegan and Jack Tucker, Tucker was rewarded with the second try of the match after 20 minutes when his power was too much for the opposition to handle and he broke through for a fine score. On 27 minutes Creggs stretched further ahead when loose head prop Tom Farrell scored a converted try from close range. The Creggs defence was caught napping before the break and Westport’s Steven Keating capitalised in the corner leaving the half-time score 19-5 to the visitors. However, Creggs didn’t have to wait long into the second half for Aaron Hannon to score his second try and extend the lead. That was followed by the score of the match when the excellent Jack Keegan powered almost the length of the pitch to touch down and leave no way back for Westport. Hession was rewarded with a try

of his own on 76 minutes to cap off a wonderful display by the Creggs U-15s. Westport did get a consolation try in injury-time leaving the final score 38 -10 to Creggs. Creggs: Aaron Hannon, Jack McGahon, Leigh Doyle, Mark Purcell, Aodah Hession, Tom Farrell Roddie McGuinness, Jonathan Whyte, Thomas O’Brien, Adam Downey, Lorcan Maher, Jack Tucker, Jack Hanley, John McDonnell, Jack Keegan, Sean Quinn, Eric O’Doherty, Evan Comiskey-Hoare, Diarmuid Quinn, Karl Healy. Creggs 2nds 17 Monivea 2nds 21: Creggs and Monivea served up an exciting and free-flowing game at The Green in Sunday’s Junior 2 League encounter. With a remarkable improvement in underfoot conditions from last weekend, both sides threw the ball around at every opportunity in a frenetic opening quarter which resulted in Monivea leading by 14-0. Creggs responded with a fine try by the impressive Neville Walker, who proved a serious threat in attack. Moivea, however, had a 14-5 lead at half-time. Creggs dominated the third quarter with Alan Brandon leading the fightback with two tries in quick succession, the second a superb individual effort. Mark Brandon’s conversion put Creggs ahead by three points, but Monivea were not to be denied, and Ross scored a match-winning try with just 5 minutes remaining. Darren Collins converted from

under the Creggs posts. The entire Creggs panel played with determination and no little skill on a day where Monivea’s early tries proved decisive. In addition to the try scorers, Luke Meehan, Brian Donoghue and Enda Tully also impressed for Creggs, while the returning Mark Brandon used his experience to good effect at standoff. Creggs: Stephen Crehan, Rory O’Donoghue, Rory Collins, Neville Walker, David Hoare, Mark Brandon, Chris Duignan, Ed Conlon, Enda Tully, Brian Coady, Declan Nee, Kevin Rushe, Graham Curran, Alan Brandon, Brian Donoghue, Ken Loughrey, Paul McNeill, Luke Meehan. Creggs Minis: Creggs Mini girls travelled to the Sportground last Saturday night and played at half-time in the Connacht v Ospreys Rabo Pro 12 game. It was a great evening for the girls and well done to all. Next weekend the girls will travel to Athlone for a game with Buccaneers with an 11 am kick off. U-10s: Creggs U-10s will travel to Ballina next Saturday morning for their end of season Connact Blitz. A text will go out with details during the week. All other ages will train in Creggs at 11 am. U-14s: Creggs U-14s took on Corrib RFC in the first round of the U-14 Cup on Saturday in Creggs. Corrib travelled short a few players and Creggs were comfortable winners on the day.

Pictured is the Creggs U-15 panel which progressed in the Connacht Cup last weekend.

Creggs did give the opposition a few players on the day to even out the game. Next week Creggs will have a much tougher assignment in Round 2 of the cup when they play Westport away on Sunday at 12 pm. Creggs: Naoise Coyle, Jack Crehan, James Rocke, Diarmuid Fahy, Mark Purcell, Cian Glennon, Darragh Kiernan, Aaron Lyons, Andrew Naughton, Ethan Glennon, Jack Tucker, Lorcan Maher, Luke Divilly, Ronan Lambe, Rory Callaghan, Ben Finnerty, Louis McCaffrey. U-17s: Creggs RFC 17 Galwegians 21. Creggs lost out to Galwegians RFC in the U-17 cup last Sunday morning in a tight and exciting cup encounter. This was the third meeting between the teams over the last four weeks and all the other games were very tight and this game proved no different. Creggs began the first half very well and will have been disap-

pointed that the score was 0-0 at half-time as they were denied twice in the first 10 minutes when knocking on going over the line. Galwegians found it very hard to clear their own lines in the first half and up front Melvin Conteh, Rian Biesty, Adam Finnerty and Daire Byrne were having very good games in the tight and David O’Gorman was winning good ball at line-out time. The second half saw Creggs harshly penalised 5 metres from the opposition line after 5 minutes and the next 10 minutes proved costly for Creggs with Galwegians scoring two quick tries when they broke out of their half on two occasions to score under the posts to take a 14-0 lead. Creggs continued to attack and got their reward after 14 minutes with a try from Danny Arnold which was converted by Shane Purcell. Almost straight from the kick-off Galwegians scored to

stretch the lead to 21-7. Creggs continued to attack and reduced the deficit when Niall Cunniffe scored in the corner after good team play to leave the score 2112 going into the last 10 minutes. Creggs got the last score of the game when Shane Purcell took advantage of a flat Galwegians defensive line to Chip over the defenders and catch the ball to score in the corner leaving the final score 21-17. This was a hard defeat for the U-17s but they still have a Connacht League final to look forward to over the coming weeks. Creggs: Nathan Feeney, Juan De La Campa, John Martin, Jason Hoare, Shane Purcell, Brandon Hanmore, Aaron Glennon, Mathew Curley, Michael Kelly, Niall Cunniffe, Eoghan Coyle, Ian Conlon, Danny Arnold, Melvin Conteh, Brian Maloney, David O’Gorman, Rian Biesty, Daire Byrne, Adam Finnerty.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

SportsPeople

Convent shown no mercy in Mullingar Lidl Ladies Football All-Ireland Colleges Junior all the way and they were rewarded with three late ‘A’ Semi-Final SCOIL CHRIOST RI PORTLAOISE

8-13

CONVENT OF MERCY, ROSCOMMON

4-10

To score 4-10 and lose an All-Ireland semi-final by 15 points is scarcely believable but that’s what happened to the Roscommon girls in this All-Ireland semi-final played at St. Loman’s, Mullingar

last Friday. However, the score with 10 minutes to go was 8-10 to 1-7 and it gives an indication of the domination for the Laois side throughout. But credit to the Convent girls, they battled

goals. The Portlaoise girls were lethal in front of the posts and by half-time they had racked up four goals to help them to a 4-3 to 0-4 lead. After the Laois side scored their fifth goal there was some respite as Savannah Cassidy powered home a penalty in the 38th minute. But three further goals in a five-minute

spell for Portlaoise ended the game as a contest. Niamh Shanagher scored a great goal to kick-start a late revival for the Roscommon girls. Then Savannah Cassidy scored her second goal of the game and before the end Ellen Irwin’s goal put respectability on the final scoreline. Best for a gallant Convent of Mercy side were Ellen Irwin, Savannah

Minor hurlers to face Wicklow Casey, Niamh Shanagher and Kate McPhillips. Convent of Mercy, Roscommon: C Curley; M Tiernan, N Madden, A Mcloughlin; M Dervin, A Curley, K McPhillips; N Shanagher (1-0), M Kelly; S Scally, E Iriwn (1-2), C Corcoran (0-2); A Griffin, S Fallon, S Casey (2-5). Subs: C Johnson for Tiernan, S Kilroe for Scally, A McNally for Kelly, J Bannon for Dervin.

Roscommon minor hurlers face Wicklow in the opening round of the Leinster Minor Hurling League this Saturday (2.30 pm) in a re-match of sorts of last year’s All-Ireland minor ‘B’ semi-final. (Details of venue not available going to press). On that occasion, Roscommon enjoyed the upperhand on their opponents in Arklow but, as tough a task as that was, this fixture will be far more difficult for the visitors who travel without their Roscommon CBS contingent for this one. Roscommon have two group games in the Leinster Hurling League, with the other against Down at a neutral venue the following Saturday. Amongst the other teams competing are Kildare, Westmeath, Meath, Laois, Dublin and Kerry.

Rossies stun Laois ladies All-Ireland ‘B’ Camogie Championship ROSCOMMON

Deadly Downey downs Down Lidl Ladies National Football League Division Three ROSCOMMON

1-15

1-7 DOWN Roscommon ladies showed a clean pair of heels to Down in Newry last Saturday and now promotion is a real possibility after an eight-point win. Roscommon began in storming fashion and scored 1-4 without reply. Points from Laura Fleming (2), Rachel Ryan and Jenny Downey and a well-worked goal from Martina Freyne were the Roscommon scores and by half-time Roscommon led by 1-8 to 0-5. A Down goal after eight minutes of the second half saw them back in the game. Roscommon scored some super points through Jenny Downey (four frees), Siobhan Tully and Rebecca Finan, and that saw them home safely. With three wins recorded Roscommon are now in a strong position on the Division Three table and they face Fermanagh in Rockfield on Sunday next in the next round of games. Roscommon: Rachel Timothy; Caroline Gunning, Siobhan Greevy, Triona Kelly; Amanda McLoone, Aisling McAulliffe, Joan Geoghegan; Laura Fleming, Joanne Cregg; Natalie McHugh; Jenny Downey, Siobhan Tully; Martina Freyne, Rachel Ryan, Sheila Brady. Subs: Laura McLoone, Niamh Feeney, Rachel Finan, Maeve Holmes.

COLAISTE EINDE

2-5 Aisling McDermott, Emer Lennon, Katie Lavin; Rachel Dolan, Niamh Farrell, Nora Brennan; Rachel Fitzmaurice, Grainne Whyte; Laura Keenan, Shauna Fallon, Lisa Mullen; Aisling Dempsey, Lorraine Kenny, Eimer McNally. Lisa Dolan, Ceara Mulry, Aisling McGrath, Niamh Madden, Bridget Moylan, Ailisha Lenehan, Maeve Tiernan, Louise Murray, Laoise Fitzpatrick, Lara Croghan, Sarah Carty.

Friday, March 4th Division 4 League At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Kilglass Gaels. 8.15 pm Saturday, March 5th O’Rourke Cup Division 1 At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Elphin. 7 pm Tansey Cup At Nash Park: Western-Gaels v Castlerea St. Kevin’s. 3 pm Sunday, March 6th Allianz National Football League Division One At Dr. Hyde Park: Roscommon v Down. 2 pm Allianz National Hurling League Division 3A At Athleague: Roscommon v Fingal. 1 pm Division 4 League (11 am) At Strokestown: Strokestown v Pádraig Pearses At Enfield: St. Croan’s v St. Dominic’s At Parc Naomh Bearraí: St. Barry’s v St. Ronan’s At Rockfield: Oran v Boyle Division 5 League At Kilteevan: St. Joseph’s (Kilteevan) v Fuerty At Michael Glavey’s GAA Club, Michael Glavey’s v Roscommon Gaels At Kilmore GAA Grounds: Kilmore v St. Aidan’s At Davonna Park: Ballinameen v Kilbride Division 6 League At Ballyleague: St. Faithleach’s v Tulsk Lord Edwards At Croghan: Shannon Gaels v Eire Óg

Jenny Downey was in fine form as Roscommon ladies overcame Down in Newry last weekend. Pic: Andrew Fox

Connacht Colleges Senior Hurling ‘C’ final

While the votes were being counted elsewhere Roscommon CBS scored a notable victory on Saturday last edging out the Galway City side Colaiste Einde in an exciting en-

LAOIS Roscommon camogie team made the trip to Mountrath last Saturday and led at half-time by 0-6 to 0-4. Despite Laois scoring two second-half goals Roscommon always stayed ahead and with Rachel Fitzmaurice, Aisling McDermott, Nora Brennan, Aisling Dempsey and Niamh Farrell playing well, Roscommon were well worth their victory. Roscommon will play Kildare in their next game. Roscommon: Fiona Tully:

GAA Fixtures

CBS edge Einde to take title ROSCOMMON CBS

0-13

2-6 0-11 counter at Duggan Park, Ballinasloe. Two goals before halftime were key and it set Roscommon CBS up for the win. The Galway side looked the more likely

winners as the Roscommon attack were struggling to get scores until goals came from Adam Whyte and John Murray before half-time. John Murray’s long-range free went all the way to the Coaiste Einde net and then when Adam Whyte grabbed another it helped the CBS to a two-point

lead at half-time. The second half was tense as the Galway side came back into contention with a number of pointed frees and with five minutes to go the sides were level. But John Murray pointed a difficult late free which proved the wining score. Best for Roscommon CBS were Conor Coyle,

James Fetherstone, Thomas Doyle, John Walker and Adam Whyte. Roscommon CBS: L Murray; C Grimes, C Coyle, O Lyons; R Kilcline, M Feeley, E Grady; J Fetherstone, T Doyle; J Murray (1-6), C Whyte, C Shanagher; A Whyte (1-0), J Walker, B McGahon. Sub: C Miley for McGahon.

Underage GAA Results Minor Football League Division One Pádraig Pearses 3-18 St. Faithleach’s 1-6 Clann na nGael 3-15 St. Brigid’s 2-6 Minor Football League Division Two Roscommon Gaels 7-12 Eire Óg 0-4 Tulsk Lord Edwards 2-12 Elphin 0-7 Minor Football League Division Three Castlerea St. Kevin’s 10-12 Western-Gaels 0-9 Michael Glavey’s 2-17 St. Croan’s 1-10 Boyle 7-10 Oran 4-11 Eurona Brisknet U-14 Hurling Feile Athleague\Tremane 2-2 Roscommon Gaels 1-1 Four Roads 11-13 St. Dominic’s 0-0 Minor Football League Division Four Kilbride 4-9 Clann na nGael 2-5 Clann na nGael 2-9 Kilglass Gaels/St Barry’s 3-2

GAA Result Hodson Bay Hotel Junior B Football Championship Knock-out Stages St. Aidan’s 1-13 Michael Glavey’s 2-7

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Dan’s SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER

Darts Roscommon reach All-Ireland semis Following on from their recent success in the Donlon Cup, the Roscommon Mens’ team concluded one of their best All-Ireland stints ever with a fully deserved run to the Semi-Finals of the event held in the West County Hotel, Ennis this past weekend. The Rossies powered their way through the group stage with consecutive 8-4 wins over both Monaghan and Donegal sealing a last 16 date with Kerry. In what proved to be an absorbing match up, Roscommon just edged it 7-6 against The Kingdom. Mick Kilroe impressed with a host of tons and a 17 darter. The quarter-finals pitted the Roscommon team against Waterford and with Thomas Concannon getting them off to a great start, the Rossies cruised into the semi-finals 7-2. The semi-final proved to be a much tougher affair and despite some brilliant darts from David Concannon and Mick Kilroe, Carlow came out on top 7-4. Manager Martin Fleming and captain Mick Kilroe along with the rest of the team deserve tremendous credit for a wonderful tournament. Meanwhile David Concannon won the first singles INDO ranked tournament of the year, beating Jimmy Murphy 6-2 in the final. Gary Concannon also did well in making the last 8. The Hannon’s Hotel Darts League resumes this week with a top of the table clash between The Forge and McDermott’s. Elsewhere, Flanagan’s take on Ned’s, The Hatch entertains An Bothar Rua and Creaton’s head to Hollywood. The Ronan McCormack Darts Competition takes place this Saturday (March 5th) in Foxe’s Bar, Roscommon town. The event will be a Charity Doubles Darts Night with a draw for pairs on the night. Entry Fee is €10 with a start time of 7.45 pm. Entries Limited to 48 players so book your spot now by phoning 086-1721181. On the night, David Concannon will be the special guest. Don’t worry, he won’t be taking part in the competition but there will be an opportunity to play him later in the night!

Pool Charlie’s maintain lead at the top Charlie’s remain top of the Cup standings following a 6-1 win over The Lifebelt. Elsewhere, Sportsman’s and Foxe’s both enjoyed 4-3 wins over Bothar Rua and Kenny’s respectively. In the Shield, the top two Sorohan’s and The Central have qualified for the semi-finals. Meanwhile, The Silver Eel will face The Forge and Farrell’s will face Eddie’s in the two quarterfinals after the four teams finished in the top six. CUP TABLE Pos Team Played Points 1 Charlie’s 12 48 2 Foxe’s 11 45 3 Silver Eel 11 40 4 Bothar Rua 11 38 5 The Lifebelt 11 35 6 Sportsman’s 11 34 7 Kenny’s 11 33

Bigger, faster, stronger … but are athletes safer? THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner A former teammate of the late New Zealand rugby legend, Jonah Lomu, has recently claimed that the supplement creatine could have been responsible for Lomu’s health problems. Joeli Vidiri played on the opposite wing to Lomu for the Auckland Blues in the 1990s and won two caps for the All Blacks. He also suffered the same rare kidney condition as his fellow winger. The claim comes amid recent concerns that rugby players are becoming bigger and faster which in turn has led to a spotlight being thrown on concussion in the game.

This is not a new problem, as one look at Will Smith’s recent movie, aptly named ‘Concussion’ will show. The NFL has being dealing with oversized athletes causing mini car crashes for years now. I believe it’s all down to the added pressure to perform. The worrying aspect about this is the fact that athletes are starting to use various supplements at a younger age. I’ve witnessed minor players taking protein shakes in locker areas of gyms as part of the training ritual. Rugby, NFL and GAA players can’t be blamed for wanting to be in peak condition. The pressure to be big and fast enough means that extra protein, amino acids and even creatine is required. This along with tougher training programmes leads to more muscle mass and increased speed over short distances, which

results in higher velocity and bigger hits. Rugby players are freakishly big much like their NFL cousins and one look at the GAA will tell you that footballers are not getting any smaller either. The Dublin team is a perfect example of a team that’s added speed and brawn over the last few years. There’s nothing wrong with players developing physique, but the worry is that increased impact injuries will be the result. There are many questions as yet unanswered such as how big will be big enough for these physical sports? And how will it affect performance and the way these sports are played and governed? Jonah Lomu’s former teammate raises another question. What exactly are young athletes consuming and how will it affect them long term?

Rugby players are getting bigger and hitting harder which has led to increased concussion fears in the sport.

Golf

Golﬁng year tees off across the county Last weekend saw the official opening of the golfing year in clubs across Roscommon as Drive Ins took place in Castlerea and Boyle with large groups taking part in the scrambles that followed. This column wishes all golfers across the county a successful year. In Roscommon Golf Club, the Sunday 15-hole competition was won by Seamus Mulryan with 38 points, followed by Cian O’Connor in second on 36 points. The men’s over 55’s was won by T. Fallon, with J. Carter in second and P. Geraghty in third. G. Spillane went two better than last week and finished first in the senior ladies with J. Maxwell in second, M. O’Gara in third and J. Hallyday in fourth. Over in Castlerea Golf Club, the golfing year teed off with a Drive In followed by a fun scramble

which was won by Greg Bruen, Odhran Costelloe and Breege Cullen followed by Jean Timothy, Kieran Rosney and Michael Creighton in second place. Kathy Burke, David O’Dowd and Paulo Hayden finished up in third place. The day was rounded off with a presentation of medals to the Connacht mixed foursomes team by Guest of Honour, Michael Connaughton. The round robin competition held in February in aid of Breast Cancer Research was won by Mary Kenny followed by Elizabeth Devine and Eileen Freyne in second and third place respectively. Up in Boyle the Captain’s Drive In enjoyed a strong turnout and the scramble that followed was keenly contested. Terry Canning, Liz Dwyer and Tommy King pipped Gary Carty, Michael Si-

Pictured are the winners of the recent scramble at Boyle Golf Club (L-r): Tommy King, Liz Dwyer, Terry Canning and club captain, Ross Andrew.

mon, Pat Conroy and Marie Hanmore-Cawley into second place. Jim Mooney, Michael Gilmartin and Lewis Shaw came third. Last week’s 9-hole competition was won by Liam Mullaney with 22 points followed by Patrick

Egan just behind on 21 points. In Athlone, the gent’s Winter League Finals takes place this Saturday (March 5th) and the ladies are out next Saturday (March 12th). J. Kinahan took the AWGS competition last Thursday, with

J. Burns taking class 1, M. Cleary taking class 2 and M. Rock class 3, while T. Meagher won the veterans with 25 points. Last Wednesday week’s 15hole competition was won by Anthony O’Connor with 36 points.

Handball

St. Coman’s duo take County title Darren Beatty and Oisin Naughton (St. Coman’s) took the Junior Doubles County title last weekend in Lisacul. The pair defeated Denis Creaton and Sean Jennings (Lisacul) in two straight games 21-10, 2118. Beatty and Naughton go on to play the Mayo winners in a fortnight’s time. Roscommon had four finalists in the 40x20 Connacht juvenile finals held in Mayo venues last Sunday and had a 50% success ratio with the two doubles combinations of Dylan Hanley and Gareth Delaney and the Treacy

twins enjoying comfortable wins. In the Boys’ U-16 doubles, St. Coman’s pair, Dylan Hanley and Gareth Delaney, came up against Moycullen duo Conneely and Mulkerrins. With Hanley’s control and Delaney’s power they were never in any trouble and won in two quick games. Much tougher opposition awaits in the All-Ireland semi-final against Ulster next weekend. Siobhan and Aisling Treacy made it a two Connacht titles in a row when they had a very easy win over Claregalway’s Hannah Walsh and Chellene Trill in the

Girls’ U-13 doubles final. Some excellent cross serving from the left was really the story of the game as the Galway girls struggled badly to even return the ball and the twins never let up to win in two straight-forward games. Fionn Cusack had the misfortune to come up against the reigning All-Ireland Boys U-16 singles champion in Inis Mor’s excellent Peter O’Donnacha. The powerfully built Aran lad got down to business quickly with superb serving and two-handed killing. Cusack tried his best and showed some lovely touches in the second game but was well beaten in both

games. It was a case of ‘action replay’ for Philip Halliday and Eanna Moran in their U-13 doubles final against their conquerors of last year, Moycullen’s Michael Moughen and Dara Kyne. As happened in 2015, the talented Roscommon lads looked the better players and were in a strong position to win, but made far too many unforced errors against two solid but unspectacular players and ended up on the wrong end of a 12-15, 9-15 scoreline. St. Coman’s hosted four outstanding Senior Championship games last weekend. On Saturday in the round of 32 Dublin’s

legendary Eoin Kennedy proved there’s life in the old dog yet when he defeated Clare’s Colin Crehan in a display of craftiness and control. Following that Wicklow’s lightning-quick Michael Gregan overcame Belfast’s power-hitting Owen McKenna in a three game cracker. On Sunday, Kennedy was narrowly defeated by Galway’s Martin Mulkerrins in a superb clash of styles, while Gregan unfortunately had to pull out of his game with Armagh’s Charlie Shanks after suffering a twisted ankle in the first game of what promised to be a close match.

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Seamus Duke ON SPORT Roscommon must get back Down to earth In all the years that I have been following Roscommon football I don’t think that I ever saw the senior team score 4-25 in a league game, especially a league division one game. I know that there is a responsibility on everyone ¬– not only the players and management, but on the local media too – not to get carried away, but this was a stunning performance from Roscommon against Cork. Some of the scores that we saw last Sunday from the Roscommon players were a joy to watch. The ball was moved quickly from back to front and the huge amount of fitness work which has been done by the players since December is paying off. As Kevin McStay said after the game, they are treating all these Division One games as championship matches – and it shows. To think that we have gone to Kerry and Cork and come back with two points from each trip is incredible. I

don’t think that even the most fanatical Roscommon fan would have been predicting that when the league fixtures were published. Now Roscommon are in a position where, if they beat Down on Sunday next, relegation will probably be avoided and a semi-final place could be a possibility. But there are dangers in the Down game. Firstly the Roscommon players are only human and it would not be natural if they were not basking in the glory of last Sunday’s huge win. The management will have a major job to refocus minds for Sunday’s clash. Remember too that Down have lost their opening three games and another loss on Sunday will almost certainly open the relegation trapdoor for them. A win for Roscommon would also take the pressure off going to Donegal on Sunday week so it is a crucial game in many ways. But the players have been magnifi-

cent so far in this league but there are a number of them who are now beginning to blossom under the new management regime. Davy Murray, Niall McInerney, Fintan Cregg, Conor Devaney and Cian Connolly are all players who are improving with every outing. But the most improved player in the team is Ciaran Murtagh who has made the centre-forward position his own and he is scoring heavily as well as playing brilliantly. Then add in the more established players like Darren O’Malley and Geoffrey Claffey, Seanie Mac (what a servant he is), Neil Collins, Niall Daly, Ian Kilbride, Enda Smith, Seanie Purcell, Senan Kilbride, Brian Murtagh, Cathal Shine and Cathal Cregg and we have a panel of very good players indeed. Remember too that there are several players out injured like Niall Kilroy, Kevin Higgins, Mark Healy, Donie Smith, Diarmuid Murtagh and

Ultan Harney. The panel looks very strong but there is a lot of work to do. Yes, we have won two games in the league but remember that Roscommon are far fitter than most of the teams that they are playing at the moment and when the summer comes around all the top teams will have done a lot more work. The management have rightly decided to target staying in Division One as a priority and as we said before here, to achieve that aim would be a huge boost for the year ahead. But we have to guard against getting carried away. Every time we win a few matches in Roscommon we lose the run of ourselves and I include myself in that failing over the years. Despite the brilliant performance last Sunday it adds up to two league points and we will all be scratching our heads in disbelief if we lose on Sunday against Down, which could well happen. The only thing we can say with cer-

One for the diary

From the Internet

After a highly successful 2015 Cheltenham preview night, Tierney’s Bar in Ballygar will once again host what promises to be a most enjoyable festival preview when some of Ireland and Britain’s top form experts and jockeys descend on the village tonight (Thursday, 3rd March).

McStay and McHale – Mayo’s loss?

Ireland struggle while Connacht thrive Ireland put in a great display against England in the Six Nations but we didn’t deserve to win the game. Despite the fact that we have some very good players, the ’Golden Generation’ of O’Connell, O’Gara, O’Driscoll, etc. only come along once in a lifetime and we will have a hard job to replace them. Ireland have two games left, against Italy and Scotland, and hopefully we can win both, although the Scots are improving. In Connacht it’s still fair sailing along at the top of the Pro12 league table after a good win against Ospreys. It would be some achievement if they were to actually top the table and qualify for the semi-finals. Pat Lam has done a great job at the Sportsground since he came. England’s Mike Brown celebrates scoring a try against Ireland in last weekend’s Six Nations game in Twickenham.

Hurlers to maintain unbeaten run? The Roscommon hurlers can also put themselves in a great position in the league if they can beat Fingal in Athleague.

Justin Campbell’s men have not set the world on fire so far in this league but they are still winning and they should continue their unbeaten run.

Congress changes set to leave their ‘mark’

GAA players may soon be awarded a ‘mark’ for fielding high balls successfully.

tainty is that this Roscommon team are going in the right direction. Elsewhere, Mayo were beaten by Donegal but they played very well and they are beginning to show a bit of form. Donegal are very strong at home and Roscommon will be warned about that ahead of their game on Sunday week. Monaghan showed just how good a side they are when they were desperately unlucky not to get at least a draw against Dublin on Saturday night. Kerry are back in business and with some of their injured stars back they hammered Down in Newry. This weekend Cork will have to recover quickly because they travel to Croke Park on Saturday night. Kerry versus Donegal looks like the game of the day while Mayo face a tough trip to Clones to play Monaghan. Roscommon could be in a great position after this weekend if they manage to overcome Down.

The GAA Congress has opted to change minor to U-17 and the U-21 championship is now gone to U-20. I gave my views on those here last week but the fact that the changes in the playing

calendar were rejected will have more negative implications for club players. I am not a follower of the ‘mark’ being introduced in Gaelic Football. It will slow the game

down and I agree with the views expressed by Fergal O’Donnell at the weekend that it is not really needed in the game. There should have been a trial period before it was voted on.

It could have been all the more emphatic for Roscommon last Sunday against Cork, as they led 4-21 to 2-7 after 55 minutes. Of the 4-25 scored, 4-22 came from play, with Ciaran Murtagh kicking 2-4. While there will be many recriminations in Cork, it is a considerable achievement by Roscommon, who had won their previous league fixture away to Kerry. As Roscommon sit third in Division One on four points, McStay is looking downwards towards his native Mayo, who are joint bottom with Down on zero points. McStay and his brother-in-law Liam McHale were overlooked for the Mayo job in 2015, with the job given to Noel Kennelly and Pat Holmes. With both Kennelly and Holmes now out of the job owing to displeasure among the players, Mayo have failed to fire in this year’s league as new manager Stephen Rochford beds into the job while missing his Castlebar Mitchells contingent to the club championship. They were edged by two points in a thrilling contest with Donegal on Sunday, evidence that Mayo are slowly coming to grips with Rochford’s new management, but are in serious danger of relegation with a difficult trip to Clones ahead. Rochford said that his side’s performance was encouraging but admitted that Mayo had to “move beyond good games and performances and look to get two points”. While Mayo will undoubtedly improve, the amount of upheaval and instability wrought by the dismissal of Pat Holmes and Noel Kennelly and the appointment of Rochford is contributing to a poor league campaign and ahead of a Connacht Championship in which Roscommon must be considered as serious contenders. How different would things be if Mayo had appointed McStay last year? The former Sunday Game analyst was overlooked for the Mayo job last year, and ranks it as his greatest regret in football. Writing in “The Scrapbook of Regrets”, a GAA book put together by a national school in Leitrim, McStay admitted that missing out on the Mayo job is his greatest regret in the sport. Now, as Mayo face into an uncertain league conclusion and a championship campaign without an ideal preparation given the upheaval, how different would things be if they had appointed McStay last year? Roscommon often flatter to deceive in the league, but all Mayo people must be wondering what McStay and McHale could have done with this crop of Mayo talent. (Courtesy of Balls.ie)

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Allianz National Football League Division One: Roscommon 4-25 Cork 3-10

RAMPANT ROSSIES McStay on stunning win: ‘We won’t get carried away’ VERDICT Seamus Duke

Roscommon joint managers Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell must now ensure that expectations are kept under control following their team’s back-to-back wins over Kerry and Cork. Picture: Andrew Fox

Joint team manager Kevin McStay says there is no danger of Roscommon “getting ahead of themselves” following their astonishing 18-point win over Cork on Sunday. A delighted McStay said the win sets Roscommon up nicely for the home game against Down this weekend, but added: “We will not be getting ahead of ourselves, I can guarantee you of that. Our management team is strong

TIME ADDED ON…

and anyone who gets carried away will be pulled up. This great display and win today is no good if we cannot go out and beat Down on Sunday.” In one of the greatest league displays in the history of Roscommon football, Fergal O’Donnell and Kevin McStay’s men went to Cork last Sunday as the 4/1 outsiders and handed out a football lesson to the Rebel County – and played some won-

derful football to do so. Roscommon were full value for their 18-point win and now they are in a great position in Division One with four matches to go. The memory of the opening round loss to Monaghan has been well and truly banished, and wins in Killarney and now in Cork have lifted Roscommon up towards the top of the league table. A win against Down on Sunday next would put the Rossies in with a chance of a semi-final place, which would be an astounding achievement. One thing is certain – this Roscommon team is improving with every game and they now look at home in the lofty surroundings of Division One. It’s hard to know where to start to describe this incredible game played on a beautiful surface in the spring sunshine at Pairc Ui Rinn. Some of the statistics from this game are truly astounding and go some way to explain just how

THE PEOPLE’S PUNDIT

Talking Point ROSSIES ON FIRE: This was a spectacular attacking display from Roscommon who ran rings around Cork for most of the afternoon. A grand total of 4-25 (4-22 from play) was the return which had the huge Roscommon following cheering with delight. Seldom have we seen such an awesome attacking display from any Roscommon team over the years, especially in the league.

This Time Last Year National Football League Division 2: Laois 217 Roscommon 0-16 (at O’Moore Park).

What’s Next? Roscommon v Down in Round 4 at Dr. Hyde Park next Sunday at 2 pm.

Media View “The people of Roscommon could be forgiven for waking up on Monday morning and quickly checking the Division 1 table – just to make sure it all wasn’t a dream. Two games against Munster’s Old Firm. Two wins. And two remarkable but very different performances. If the win in Killarney was tight and cagey, the Rossies’ victory on Leeside today was anything but. “Roscommon blew Cork out of the water, scoring 4-25, with the entire forward line running riot. Kevin McStay has his young team playing with tremendous belief and their fitness is on another level. Another win at home to Down next Sunday, and a semi-final spot beckons for Roscommon. Who knew this Di- Roscommon supporter, Martin Walshe, Gorthaganny, looked happy with Roscommon’s impressive final score against Cork in the National Football League match played at Páirc Uí Rinn vision 1 lark would be so easy?” (The 42.ie) in Cork last Sunday.

I’ve another good one for you…Roscommon will win by 18 points tomorrow! Well-known GAA men Cllr. Domnick Connolly (left) and Shane Curran in jovial humour at the General Election count centre last Saturday. Picture: Andrew Fox

Domnick Connolly (Fuerty) It was a fantastic display from Roscommon and it was fantastic to be there to see it. Some of the scores that they got were out of the top drawer and it was one of the best wins we ever had in the league. Every player contributed to the win and the team are improving with every match they play. The weather was good and this young Roscommon team seemed to revel in the good conditions. If we could beat Down now we would be in a great position. As it is, a win in Kerry and now a win in Cork will give the players great confidence and the management team are doing a great job with the team. It was a pleasure to watch them playing football out there today. * In conversation with Seamus Duke

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

Allianz National Football League Division One: Roscommon 4-25 Cork 3-10

CRUSH CORK well Roscommon played in this match. They scored 2-13 in the first half, all from play, with 10 different scorers. They scored 425, which is a record score in Divison One of the National Football League. In the end there were 12 different scorers and 4-22 came from play. Some of the score-taking was spectacular, as Roscommon ran riot. It was a joy to watch and at times it was football of the highest quality. The big Roscommon following who were lucky enough to be there lapped it up and if this rate of improvement is maintained then Roscommon fans can look forward to a very exciting year (and years) ahead. On the down side, Roscommon shipped 3-10, which would be enough to win many a game, but in this match that handsome total saw Cork beaten by a whopping 18-point margin. I’m sure that Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell and the Roscommon backroom staff will be taking a

look at what the team conceded, but it would be very unfair to pick holes in what was a magnificent day for Roscommon football in the southern Capital. Down are next – this Sunday – and if Roscommon were to win that game then relegation would be off the agenda and a semi-final place would then be a legitimate target. That’s a little way off yet, but the focus will now turn to the Down match and after this display Roscommon will be going into that game full of confidence. To pick out any players for special mention would be unfair on those who took part on Sunday last. Every player played their part but the half-forward line as a unit was fantastic and they contributed 2-13. Some of the Roscommon attacking play was of the highest order and a pleasure to watch. Now they must get back down to earth and prepare for what will be a totally different challenge this Sunday.

ble

Division 1 Ta

W L P 0 3 3 1 Donegal 0 3 3 2 Dublin 1 2 3 3 Monaghan 1 2 3 4 Roscommon 2 1 3 5 Kerry 2 1 3 6 Cork 3 0 3 7 Mayo 3 0 3 8 Down

For D 61 0 46 0 45 0 63 0 49 0 50 0 34 0 24 0

Ag 32 37 40 48 40 69 47 59

Pts 6 6 4 4 2 2 0 0

Ciaran Murtagh was Roscommon’s top scorer with 2-4 on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Champagne football as scores ﬂow freely KEY MOMENTS Seamus Duke

Davy Murray…scored a point for Roscommon from the halfback line. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pairc Ui Rinn is a magnificent venue and the pitch was in fantastic shape for the game. It was clear from the opening minutes that this was going to be a fast, open game with lots of scores. Roscommon led by 0-5 to 0-2 after just 12 minutes. The Roscommon halfforward line of Conor Devaney, Ciaran Murtagh and Fintan Cregg were on fire and the scores flowed freely. Devaney, Murtagh, Cathal Cregg, Niall Daly and Cian Connolly, with a brilliant effort, provided those early scores. The Cork attack were living on scraps but they opened up the Roscommon defence in the 14th minute when a slick move ended with Peter Kelleher fisting to the Roscommon net. However, instead of galvanising Cork, it was Roscommon who reacted best to that goal. A minute later Fintan Cregg let the ball in high, Senan Kilbride

beat his man in the air and blasted home a mighty Roscommon goal. Roscommon then proceeded to play some of the best football that I have ever seen from a Roscommon senior football team. They mixed the play up between the long and short ball and the scores piled up. Some of those scores were out of the top drawer. Conor Devaney (2), Senan Kilbride, Enda Smith and Fintan Cregg were on target from various angles and the second Roscommon goal arrived in the 32nd minute when Cathal Cregg was on hand to finish an eight-man move to the Cork net. Roscommon supporters could hardly believe their eyes and by half-time the visitors led by 2-13 to 1-7. Surely the scoring rate could not continue in the second half? But it did! Roscommon ran rings around Cork. Fintan Cregg opened the second-half

scoring in the 37th minute and a minute later Cian Connolly (who had a brilliant game) beat his man and set up Ciaran Murtagh for another peach of a goal. In the 41st minute Peter Kelleher got in for a soft Cork goal. Was this the start of the Cork comeback? Not a bit of it. It was merely a blip as Roscommon resumed their assault on the Cork posts. Points from Fintan Cregg (2), Cian Connolly and Ciaran Murtagh saw Roscommon lead by 3-20 to 2-7 by the 51st minute. Then Ciaran Murtagh scored Roscommon’s first point from a free. In the 54th minute we saw another fantastic Roscommon goal as Fintan Cregg and Conor Devaney did the spadework for Ciaran Murtagh to fire home from close range. Now Roscommon were an incredible 20 points ahead. Both sides shuffled their pack and brought on substitutes in the final few minutes but Roscommon continued to score heavily

and Ian Kilbride, Conor Devaney, Cian Connolly (free) and sub Cathal Shine pointed before referee David Coldrick called a halt to what was a truly mesmerising display from Roscommon. Roscommon: Geoffrey Claffey; Seanie McDermott, Neil Collins (0-1), Niall McInerney; Seanie Purcell, Davy Murray (01), Niall Daly (0-1); Enda Smith (0-2), Ian Kilbride (0-1); Fintan Cregg (0-5, 1 free), Ciaran Murtagh (24, 1 free), Conor Devaney (0-4); Cian Connolly (02, 1 free), Senan Kilbride (1-1), Cathal Cregg (1-2). Subs: Conor Daly for Niall Daly (25, blood sub), Ronan Daly for Cathal Cregg (54), Ronan Stack for Purcell (58), John McManus for Murray (60), Cathal

Shine (0-1) for F Cregg (60), Cathal McHugh for Murtagh (63), Brian Murtagh for McManus (64). Cork: Ken O’Halloran; James Loughrey, Eoin Cadogan, Colm O’Driscoll; Tom Clancy, Michael Shields, Brian O’Driscoll; Andrew O’Sullivan, Ian Maguire; Mark Collins, Paul Kerrigan (0-1), Luke Connolly (1-3, 1 45, 1 free); Daniel Goulding (0-4, 3 frees), Peter Kelleher (2-0), Brian Hurley (0-1). Subs: Sean Kiely for Maguire (36), Kevin Crowley for Shields (36), Ruari Deane for Collins (46), Jamie O’Sullivan for Loughrey (46), Colm O’Neill (0-1, free) for Goulding (49), Dan McEoin for Hurley (65). Referee: David Coldrick (Meath).

Stat Attack Wides: Roscommon 8 (5 first half); Cork 6 (3 first half) Yellow Cards: Roscommon 1 (Ian Kilbride); Cork 1 (Ian Maguire) Black Cards: None Red Cards: None Frees Awarded: Roscommon 12 (2 first half); Cork 15 (7 first half) Crowd: 4,500 Man of the Match: Fintan Cregg

Roscommon People Friday 04 March 2016

SportsPeople

Convent of Mercy, Roscommon in All-Ireland Camogie Final: PAGE 72

Pictured is Kilkenny hurling legend, Henry Shefflin with Roscommon CBS students, Roscommon Bank of Ireland Management, Fiona Gallagher, Principal of CBS Roscommon and Gerry McGarry, Deputy Principal of CBS. Pic: Clare Frances Photography

DOWN TO BUSINESS! Allianz National Football League Division One: Roscommon v Down at Dr Hyde Park on Sunday at 2 pm

McStay: ‘We must handle being favourites’ < SEAMUS DUKE

oscommon will be bidding to record a third league win on the trot when they face Down in the latest round of games on Sunday at Hyde Park. Following a disappointing loss to Monaghan in the opening round, Roscommon’s campaign has been transformed by sensational wins in Kerry and Cork and it will be very interesting to see if the team can follow up on the expectation generated by those two wins and especially the performance at Pairc Ui Rinn last Sunday. Roscommon joint manager Kevin McStay (pictured) told the Roscommon People this week that managing expectations is now a big job for the management team. “We have a couple of injuries after last Sunday. Niall Daly suffered a facial injury and he is very doubtful. John McManus was also injured but we are hopeful he will be okay for Sunday next. “Look, there is no getting away from the fact that we scored 4-25 last Sunday and it was a magnificent effort and we played some great football against Cork,

but next Sunday’s game against Down will show whether we are mature as a group and to see how we react to last week’s win. “We have been underdogs all along until now but now we are the favourites to win on Sunday and we have to be able to handle that if we want to progress. “We could walk into an ambush on Sunday next and we as a management team will have a job to refocus minds on the job in hand. If we do not perform on Sunday and are beaten all the fantastic work we did last Sunday will have been wasted. “This match against Down will be a totally different challenge. They have lost three games already and they really have to win this game to give them a chance of avoiding relegation. They have plenty of good footballers and if we don’t prepare correctly we will not be winning. This could be a real battle. The pitch will not be as good as the one we played on last Sunday and we have to be ready for that too. “But we are in a position where we want to be. People outside the county are beginning to sit up and take notice of us and we have to manage all that at-

tention, but it’s great that we are in that position now. I can guarantee you that we will prepare right for this game. We will have two hard training sessions this week and we will make sure everyone’s feet are on the ground. “We are playing some lovely football and we are working hard as a group. We have had two good wins in a row so why not make it three in a row? “It is great that the supporters are buying into what we are doing and there are great crowds following the team. We want to see a big crowd there on Sunday to give their support to us again. It’s another big game for us and we are looking forward to it” he concluded. Down come to Roscommon on Sunday on the back of a bit of a trouncing against Kerry last Sunday and they have lost three in a row now. Another defeat on Sunday next will almost certainly mean relegation for them so they will fight for their lives. The confidence that last Sunday’s marvellous display will have given the Roscommon players will be worth its weight in gold. This could well be a dour encounter and on a very

Venue doubt? Note: At the time of going to press there is a doubt over the venue for Sunday’s game. Dr. Hyde Park is said to be very wet this week and may not be able to stage the game. A final decision on the venue will be taken today (Thursday, March 3rd).

Reaction to Rebel rout < SEAMUS DUKE

soggy and heavy Dr. Hyde Park pitch one thing is certain, no one will be scoring 4-25 this week! Roscommon teams have always worn the mantle of favourites very uneasily over the years – in both league and championship – but I sense something completely different under this management team and if Roscommon are to progress they will have to deal with this as they go on. There will not be too many changes to the Roscommon team. Niall Daly has

a suspected broken nose so I presume John McManus or Ronan Stack will be called in to deputise. Having tipped against Roscommon in both of the last two games I am loath to give them the thumbsup this week, but it would be a major disappointment if Roscommon were not to win this game. It might be close, but the Rossies should do it. Match odds: Roscommon 2/7 v Down 10/3; Draw 9/1. Prediction: Roscommon (by two points).

Roscommon joint manager Kevin McStay was thrilled with the team’s remarkable win in Cork last Sunday. “We are delighted because we played really well but at the end of the day it’s only two points. This win sets us up nicely for the game against Down. The application of the players was superb today. To score 2-13 all from play in the first half was a great effort. But at half-time we knew the game was not over and we urged the players to go out and keep up the intensity in the second half and they did that. “These are all championship games for us. You cannot have these standard of games in divisions two or three. I know it was a bit of a stroll today in the end but we are treating all these league games like championship matches and it is improving the players and hopefully we will be even better when the championship starts in May. “We will not be getting ahead of ourselves, I can guarantee you of that. Our management team is strong and anyone who gets carried away will be pulled up.” Seanie McDermott added: “It’s a great win. There is a great freshness about the panel. We went back to our clubs after the Kerry game and we came back into the county set-up rearing to go again. We were well focussed coming down here today and the performance was super. “We have a massive game against Down next Sunday. They will be targeting this as a game they can win, but we will not be taking our eye off the ball now. If we work hard and display the same hunger then we will give a good account of ourselves. Just a message for the supporters, it was mighty to see so many people here again today and I want to thank them for coming so far in such big numbers.”