2016 04 01 by Roscommon People

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Outrage as 29 dead animals dumped in bog

01 April 2016

– see story on page 4

The Local Paper

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Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Deirdre and Luke Hussey. Picture: Andrew Fox

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With the Connacht U-21 Football Final already lost to Roscommon – it has been switched to Sligo this Saturday – doubts persist over whether or not Dr. Hyde Park will be deemed playable to host All-Ireland champions Dublin on Sunday. Over 12,000 fans are expected in the county town for the Roscommon/Dublin game. As we went to press, Roscommon County Board remained adamant that the game will proceed.

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Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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Ploughing ﬁnals off due to ‘bad weather’

The Roscommon Ploughing Championships have been postponed because bad weather is promised over the coming days. The 21st edition of the event was due to take place on this Sunday, April 3, at James and Eleanor Coffey’s farm at Lecarrow. However, Tim Foxe, the chairman of

Roscommon Ploughing Association, said: “We have had to postpone it because of the weather promised for Friday – lots of rain is forecast.” Mr. Foxe reassured ploughing enthusiasts that the event would be rescheduled, but said that it would be “at least a couple of weeks before it happens.”

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Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Rachel and Bridie Raftery. Picture: Andrew Fox

Council to honour Dublin footballer this Friday < DAN DOONER

A spokesperson for Roscommon County Council has defended the decision to honour Dublin football star, Bernard Brogan, by erecting a plaque on Brogan’s Lane in Roscommon town. The decision comes ahead of Roscommon’s Allianz Football League Division One clash against the All-Ireland champions in Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday. Earlier this week, the spokesperson for the council spoke to the Roscommon People: “We are proud of the many Brogans

who have hailed from these parts, and with that in mind we wanted to take this opportunity to honour Bernard, who is one of the finest footballers of his generation. This was a unanimous decision and we look forward to unveiling the specially commissioned plaque this Friday.” The plaque, which includes a likeness of Brogan and the Dublin crest along with an inscription, will be unveiled this Friday (April 1st) at 1 pm by members of the County Council. Bernard Brogan is expected to visit the plaque before the game on Sunday.

Currently a parent may gift or bequeath up to €280,000 to their child without the child being liable for tax whereas a sibling may only gift or bequeath €30,150 to another sibling before that sibling becomes liable for tax. Any gift or inheritance in excess of these amounts is taxed at 33%. Previous gifts or inheritances from another parent/sibling are also taken into account when calculating tax liabilities. So as to avoid potential family disharmony and to ensure that your wishes are carried out it is essential that you make a will. You should immediately contact your Solicitor for 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

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Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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Increase in visits to minor injuries unit < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

There was a 10 per cent increase in the number of visits to the minor injuries unit (MIU) at Roscommon Hospital last year, while a record of more than 10,500 people attended its urgent care centre (UCC). This was revealed by the hospital under the Freedom of Information Act. The UCC is comprised of four compartments – the MIU, medical day services, medical assessment unit and rapid access clinic – where 13 nurses and one non-consultant doctor are employed on

a full-time basis. It cost €900,465 to pay staff in the UCC last year. The number of people attending the UCC has increased gradually since its opening in July 2011: there was 9,230 visits in 2012; 9,395 in 2013; 10,155 in 2014; and a new high of 10,584 last year. The MIU also had a record number of patients last year – 5,118 – a sharp rise on the 4,650 who were treated there in 2014. The average waiting time in this unit last year, from registration to departure, was 56.1 minutes.

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Darragh Conroy, Argyle Hogg, Eoin Conroy and Aaron Hogg. Picture: Andrew Fox ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advertorial -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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29 dead animals callously dumped in Kilteevan bog < PAUL HEALY

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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

This was the gruesome sight that greeted locals at Kilteevan bog last week, when 29 animal carcasses were dumped – in what a Council spokesperson called “one of the worst instances” of illegal dumping he has ever come across. In what one local resident called a “despicable” act, the remains of 26 small lambs and three Charolais calves were dumped in a drain at the bog. It is thought that the dead animals were discarded there between Wednesday night and Thursday morning of last week. All 26 of the lambs are believed to have been freshly-born, with the oldest of them no more than a week old. “This was a shocking discovery” local resident and wellknown farm leader Michael Spellman told the Roscommon People. “A local man was out for a walk on Thursday morning when he came across the carcasses. The animals had been thrown into a drain after dark… they were in no more than six inches of water.” It is assumed that the animals belonged to a farmer with a big stock and that they had all died within days of being born. Mr. Spellman, who noted that the Kilteevan community is very focused on its Tidy Towns endeavours and on environmental issues generally, said that the dumping was a despicable act. “We have a proud and hard-working community here, which, as it happens, is very focused on the upkeep and image of the area” he said. Mr. Spellman complimented Roscommon County Council on responding “very swiftly” when contacted about the grim discovery. Strokestown-based Midlands Animals Collection removed the carcasses on Good Friday. A Council spokesperson said the local authority strongly comdemned what happened at Gardaí have urgently sought Kilteevan bog – and all such the public’s assistance in illegal dumping. “In fact” said solving the crime. Anyone with the spokesperson, “this is one information is asked to contact of the worst instances of illegal 090-6638300. dumping I have come across. It Sergeant Kieran Carroll: was an unbelievable sight.” The “We are treating this as a spokesperson confirmed that very serious incident. It was a Roscommon County Council is horrific sight to behold – they now investigating the matter. were dumped in such a callous Michael Spellman said that fashion, causing litter and every effort should be made possibly a pollution issue.” to identify the culprits. “Any

Contact Gardaí

farmer who engages in this sort of conduct should be shown no mercy” he said. “They should be hit where it hurts – in the pocket. Maybe they should, as an example, have some of their single farm payment taken off them. The irony is that whoever went to the trouble of driving possibly several miles to this bog to off-load these animals could have had them removed by a professional knackery at a cost of about €1 per lamb and €20 per sheep. “It is reprehensible to think that people will do this…if that man hadn’t made the discovery, foxes would have got to those carcasses and scattered them around…there would have been all sorts of implications for animal health and the environment.”

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Paul Healy on Roscommon Easter Parade; how ruthless Mayo left Roscommon with nowhere to Hyde…and those inspirational Easter Rising Centenary celebrations… Sunday Who knew there was such an impressive Donald Trump lookalike living in our midst? It all looked very gloomy in Roscommon town on Sunday morning – with dismal weather – but by the time the annual Easter Parade had started (shortly after 12 noon) the skies had cleared and the loyal crowds had turned up. Relief for the organisers, who, as ever, had done great work on the day and indeed the weeks leading up to the event. ‘Trump’ made his appearance as part of an excellent float entered by Roscommon Fire Services. The theme of the float was the ‘Save Roscommon’ campaign and the crowd loved it. ‘Trump’, it seems, was prepared to build a wall around Roscommon to keep the Westmeath invaders out. The Roscommon Fire Services entry won the ‘Most Entertaining’ category. Another great float (overall winner, in fact) was the Service Matters entry. This was themed on Fawlty Towers, the renowned 1970s sit-com in which service didn’t really matter. ‘Basil,’ ‘Sybil’ and of

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Michael, Evelyn and Mike Kilcline. Picture: Andrew Fox

course ‘Manuel’ himself were all present, and well done to Service Matters for this creative entry which the crowd greatly enjoyed.

There were a number of other very good floats, including Roscommon Lamb Festival (Best Voluntary/Community float) complete with sheep painted in the Roscommon and Mayo colours; Klassic Cleaners (winner of ‘Best Commercial’ entry) and Roxboro NS, which came first in the ‘1916 themed’ category. Honourable mention also to very good floats from, amongst others, Roscommon Show Society, Scoil Mhuire, Roscommon Gaels and local dance & ballet schools.

Later on Sunday… After all the anticipation leading up to the big Roscommon/Mayo game, it was such a shame that the Hyde Park pitch was as bad as it was. In the heavy conditions, with puddles of water all over the pitch, Roscommon struggled against physically stronger opposition. You wondered would Roscommon score at all during a wretched first half for the home team. Geoffrey Claffey made one superb acrobatic save and one very good one. Roscommon were hanging on. A few scores in the second quarter almost miraculously left Roscommon just two behind at the half-time break, with wind advantage to come. When Evan Regan waltzed in for a fine solo goal early in the second half, Roscommon’s hopes faded. As Mayo were without doubt deserving winners, it hardly matters that much that Regan took too many steps. In fact, watching a replay on television later, there were so many steps involved I was reminded of the classic song ‘Stairway to Evan.’ Anyways, complaining about this super goal would hardly be in the right spirit – it would be a bit like pointing out that a snooker player who had just scored a century against you had brushed his sleeve against the cue ball during the break. Meanwhile, back in the Hyde, Roscommon finally found some of the swagger that has made their Division One campaign so memorable. A super goal from Diarmuid Murtagh kick-started a mini-fightback. The Roscommon fans found their voice. But Mayo held on for an impressive and totally deserved victory.

Sunday/Monday Your pride in your country, your independent Republic, just swelled as you watched the 1916 Easter Rising Centenary celebrations unfold in all their magnificence. It turns out that we can do ‘pomp and ceremony’ here on a scale not unlike the masters of that type of thing, our neighbours in the UK. All that was missing was a Royal family, but that might not have been appropriate in the circumstances. I watched some of the highlights on television and everything I saw was excellent. Much of it was very emotional; all of it stirred pride in you. I thought President Michael D. Higgins excelled himself. He excelled himself in the conduct of his formal, solemn duties, and then he radiated joy and positivity when he spoke in that musical voice of his while addressing an enthusiastic crowd at a joyous Centenary Concert on Monday night. Taoiseach Enda Kenny and various ministers also conducted themselves with the gravitas the occasion(s) demanded. Many of the weekend activities were solemn, silent and moving; others were more informal and – overall – I think the balance was right. There were incredible crowds in Dublin and big turnouts in other parts of the country as the people of Ireland celebrated the centenary of 1916 in truly magnificent fashion. It was wonderful to see so many young people being a part of these momentous celebrations and it was also wonderful to witness how much all of this meant to the relations of people who were involved in the Rebellion. Of the many television programmes shown thus far, I really enjoyed two in particular. ‘Seven Women’ on RTE One was a very interesting and well-made docudrama about seven women who were at the heart of the Rising. And Joe Duffy’s ‘Children of the Revolution’, also shown on RTE One, was a magnificent and invaluable programme in which the Liveline presenter sensitively told the fascinating and deeply sad story of how about forty children lost their lives when caught up in crossfire during the Rising.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

NewsPeople Castlecoote Tidy Towns hosts Spring Clean

Pictured are some young volunteers who will be taking part in the Castlecoote Spring Clean this weekend.

Comhairle Contae Roscomáin ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

NOTICE OF PROPOSED MATERIAL ALTERATION OF THE DRAFT MONKSLAND/BELLANAMULLIA (ATHLONE WEST) LOCAL AREA PLAN 2016 – 2022

It’s the time of the year again to kick-start Tidy Towns activities and with that in mind Castlecoote Tidy Towns are having a Spring Clean on Saturday the 2nd of April. Organisers are asking people to meet in the Church car park at 10 am. Depending on the number of people that come it will be decided what areas can be reached on the day, so if you are free for an hour or two next Saturday, please head along. Castlecoote is a gold medal winner and was first in the county in 2015, so a very high standard has to be maintained for 2016. All are welcome to come along and help for the coming year at any time. Please contact a committee member for more information.

Alleged assault on Easter Sunday A man was allegedly assaulted in a pub in Roscommon town on Easter Sunday, the Gardaí have said. Gardai said that, at around 9 pm, a man in his 20s went to Roscommon Garda Station to report that he had been assaulted in a bar. The man was taken to Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, for treatment on his injuries, the nature and extent of which

are not known. Anyone with information in relation to the incident has been asked to contact Roscommon Garda Station on 090-6638300. Sergeant Kieran Carroll said that, apart from this assault, the busy weekend in Roscommon town, involving the Easter Parade and Roscommon’s GAA match against Mayo, was incident-free.

Planning & Development Acts 2000 – 2015 & Planning & Development Regulations 2001-2015 Notice is hereby given that the Members of the Athlone Municipal District of Roscommon County Council, having considered the Draft Monksland/Bellanamullia (Athlone West) Local Area Plan 2016 – 2022 together with the Chief Executive’s report, in respect of submissions received, have resolved in accordance with Section 20 (3) of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 – 2015, that the above mentioned Plan be amended. The proposed amendments constitute a material alteration to the Draft Local Area Plan. The proposed amendments have been screened for potential impacts on the environment and on Natura 2000 sites. A copy of the proposed material alterations and the associated Strategic Environmental Assessment and Appropriate Assessment screening documents in respect of the material alterations to the Draft Monksland/ Bellanamullia (Athlone West) Local Area Plan 2016 – 2022 may be inspected at The Offices of the Planning Department, Roscommon County Council, Aras An Chontae, Roscommon, (between the hours of 9.30am – 1.00pm & 2.00pm – 4.30pm, Monday – Friday, excluding public holidays)

Joan Freeman, the founder of Darkness Into Light, will speak at the launch of the event in Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night.

Other locations where the Draft may be viewed • Athlone Municipal District Office, Monksland, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. (opening hours 9.30am, – 1.00pm and 2:00 – 5:30pm; Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays) • On Roscommon County Council website at www.roscommoncoco.ie

Darkness Into Light to be launched in Carrick

Submissions or observations may be made during the stated period and should be marked “Material Alteration of the Draft Monksland/Bellanamullia (Athlone West) Local Area Plan 2016-2022” and submitted to

This year’s launch of Darkness Into Light 5km Run/Walk for Pieta House will be held in the Bush Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon, on April 1, at 8 pm. The run/walk itself will take place at more than 100 locations throughout Ireland and beyond – including Tubbercurry, Ballaghaderreen, Castlerea, Roscommon town – on Saturday, May 7, at 4.15 am. These events have proven extremely popular in recent years: hundreds of thousands of people have participated, reflect-

Forward Planning Section, Roscommon County Council Aras An Chontae Roscommon or emailed to forwardplan@roscommoncoco.ie. Written submissions or observations with respect to the Proposed Material Alterations of the Draft Monksland/Bellanamullia (Athlone West) Local Area Plan 2016 – 2022 may be made to the Planning Authority within the period Thursday 31st March 2016, and Wednesday 4th May, 2016, both dates inclusive, shall be taken into account by the authority before the development plans are made. Submissions or observations received not later than 4.30 pm on Wednesday 4th May, 2016 shall be considered. Signed:

Martin Lydon Director of Service Planning & Enterprise Date: 24th March, 2016

ing on those who have died through suicide and raising funds for the suicide and self-harm crisis centre. The founder of the event, Joan Freeman, will speak at the launch in Carrick, as will Michael Harding, an actor and author. Refreshments will be served on the night. A Darkness Into Light event was first held eight years ago, while Pieta House is currently celebrating its tenth anniversary.

Works to commence on car park The car park at The Square, Roscommon town, behind the Bank of Ireland, will be closed from Monday, April 4, as resurfacing works are carried out. The work is part of attempts to enhance the appearance of the town before it features in the Ireland’s Best Kept Town Competition this summer. Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher, the chairper-

son of Roscommon Tidy Towns Association, also encouraged business people and residents to clean their premises’ before judging of the competition takes place in May. While the car park is closed, she encouraged people to use the the spacious car park near Roscommon County Council’s new offices in the town.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

NewsPeople

Strokestown, Boyle IFA boycott elections < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The controversy over the long delay in the election of a new Connacht chairman of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) has intensified this week. The Strokestown branch have boycotted the IFA president and deputy president elections, which are taking place throughout the county until April 15, as a protest against the Connacht position being vacant for four months. The branch’s executive held a meeting on Monday night. It was decided “not to hold a meeting to facilitate the election of president and deputy president until such time as the Connacht regional chair situation is resolved”.

The elections to fill the principal IFA positions were due to be held at the Percy French Hotel in Strokestown on Tuesday night. On Tuesday, the Boyle branch followed Strokestown’s lead by calling off their elections as a similar sign of protest. “Seven or eight other branches around the county are likely to follow suit,” a source said on Wednesday morning. However, the IFA have defended their handling of the situation. “After running the nomination process twice, there were no valid nominations for the position of IFA Connacht chairman,” a spokesman said. “Candidates require a nomination by their own county executive and the signed support

of one chairman of another county executive in the region. “The situation in Connacht was considered at a meeting of IFA executive council last week. The strong view of council was that the situation needs to be resolved within the region. “Council agreed that all efforts would be made to facilitate a resolution whereby the parties in Connacht would be given more time to move forward under existing rules, so that an election for Connacht chairman would take place as early as possible.” The IFA also said that a proposed rule change will be decided at the next council meeting to allow part-time farmers to be eligible as candidates for the position of regional chairman.

Pictured at the 2014 Roscommon IFA Dinner were (left) Tom Turley, the then Connacht Regional Chairperson and (right) John O’Beirne, whose efforts to succeed him have run into controversy.

O’Beirne slams IFA hierarchy as Connacht ‘chair’ row continues < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

John O’Beirne has strongly criticised the hierarchy of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) over the way that they have dealt with the long-standing vacancy for a Connacht chairman. The Strokestown man, a candidate for the position, said that they had treated him disrespectfully and have “no leadership”. Existing criteria for the Connacht IFA role were “undemocratic”, he added. The saga over the vacancy of the Connacht IFA chairman’s position has been ongoing since last December, when Tom Turley quit. In early February, Mr. O’Beirne was the only candidate nominated for the position, but his nomination was

deemed invalid because he combined his job as a postman with his role as a farmer. According to IFA rules, only full-time farmers are eligible for the position. The nomination process was reopened and Mr. O’Beirne took leave as a postman, but again a problem materialised. All candidate must have the backing of two counties’ IFA leadership, but this time all five Connacht counties nominated one of their own members. So, effectively, no candidate was deemed valid. Mr. O’Beirne is furious with the IFA leadership over their failure to resolve both issues and proceed with an election. He said that the Roscommon executive sent a resolution to the National Council calling for a

rule change to allow a farmer who also works “outside the farm gate” to apply for the position. He said that the resolution “practically got no hearing”. “There was no vote on it. I feel that I am the only person in IFA that has suffered financially since this all started last November,” he said. “Nobody in head office – the paid staff – have taken a pay cut. “I have put my name forward and I have sat for seven weeks at home from work, waiting for a decision, and no decision has come forth. “All we are looking for is a decision from National Council, which is our governing body, about whether they will change the rule to allow farmers who work outside the farm gate to repre-

sent their region. “If this was any other province, it would be dealt with, but Connacht isn’t important to the National Council.” “I am very disappointed. I served as county chairman for four years and as county vice-chair for two years before that,” he said. “I have been a life-long member of IFA. And I think anybody that was that loyal to IFA deserved more respect than to be treated this way…” Mr. O’Beirne said that he is going to go back to work as a postman. He still intends to be a candidate for the IFA role, adding “I expect that I will not be eliminated for making a stand.” He concluded: “In any organisation where you pay your membership and become a member, you should be entitled to go for any position.”

newsbriefs Stolen jeep, trailor recovered at Ballymurray A stolen jeep and a trailer were recovered near Roscommon town last Thursday, Gardaí say. In total, more than €4,000 worth of property was recovered after Gardaí stopped and detained the vehicle, carrying an Ifor Williams trailer, at Newtown, Ballymurray, at 12.45 pm. They discovered that both items had been robbed in Co. Clare the previous day. A number of arrests have been made in connection with the incident and a file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Members of the Castlerea Brass & Reed Band at the opening of the Remembrance Park at Ballyleague. Pic: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Richie Farrell, Anna Egan, Margaret Thompson, Cllr. Paddy Kilduff and Eamonn Creamer (driver) pictured in a Model T motorcar at Monday’s event in Ballyleague.

Proud day in Ballyleague as 1916 Garden of Remembrance unveiled Ballyleague Village Renewal & Tidy Towns committee would like to take this opportunity to thank everybody who came along in such numbers to the official opening of the new 1916 Garden of Remembrance in Ballyleague Riverside Park on Easter Monday. The garden was designed and created by local students, voluntary members of Ballyleague’s Village Renewal & Tidy Towns committee and Brendan Farrell of Ardagh Village Landscapes.

A special commemorative mosaic art feature for 1916, commissioned by the artist Patsy Preston and produced in association with the residents of Innis Ree and Costello’s nursing homes in Ballyleague, were also unveiled on the day. The committee acknowledges the funding support received from Roscommon County Council for this project under the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme. “Therefore, it was a great pleasure to welcome

our special guests on the day – the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Councillor Paddy Kilduff; the CEO of the Council, Mr. Eugene Cummins and the County co-ordinator of the Roscommon 1916 commemoration committee, Mr. Richie Farrell.” The committee also thanked the huge number of people who have assisted with this project and invites the wider public to now visit the 1916 Garden of Remembrance in Ballyleague Riverside Park.

Launch of Ballaghaderreen charity cycle Ballaghaderreen Cycling Club in association with Reachout.com will launch its annual cycle on Thursday, April 7th in The Fiddlers Elbow pub at 8 pm. Special guest will be Naoise Kavanagh from Reachout. Exercise, goal setting, getting involved and taking part in community events have known benefits to mental health and wellbeing. The Ballaghaderreen Cycle Club event will be held on Sunday, May 22nd in Ballaghaderreen in support of Reachout.com.

SPCA street collection Roscommon SPCA are have a street collection in Strokestown this Friday (1st) and Saturday, 2nd of April. Your support will be greatly appreciated.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

NewsPeople newsbriefs Ballinasloe Cancer Support Centre AGM Ballinasloe Cancer Support Centre invites you to attend their Annual General Meeting next Monday (April 4th) at the centre on Main Street (above John Dolan Auctioneers) at 8 pm. All are welcome and refreshments will be served.

Medjugorge Mass to resume in May The usual monthly Mass for Peace held in St. Coman’s Club, Abbey Street, Roscommon will not be celebrated in April. Mass will resume in May.

Celebrating Feast of Divine Mercy The Feast of Divine Mercy will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday, 3rd of April, beginning with Adoration at 2 pm and Mass at 3 pm. Confessions will be heard from 2-3 pm. Divine Mercy Novena continues until Sunday, 3rd of April. Novena leaflets available in porch of Church.

PTAA meeting There will be a meeting of the Pioneer Council in St. Coman’s Club, Roscommon on Friday, 1st of April at 8.30 pm.

Organ Donor Awareness Week: Volunteers sought Organ Donor Awareness Week will take place from Sat. 2nd-Sat. 9th April. The Roscommon branch of the Irish Kidney Association is looking for volunteers to sell forget-me-not flowers, emblems, etc. in Roscommon town on Friday, 8th of April. If you are willing to help, please contact Maura at 086 896 9670.

‘Quad’ seeking volunteers The Quad Youth Centre, Circular Road, Roscommon is currently looking for volunteers for their 2nd years’ youth café which is held on Fridays from 3.45-5 pm. If you would like to help out, please contact Maree on 090 66 27751 for further details.

Run, walk or waddle for CROÍ in Elphin There will be a 6K run, walk or waddle on Sunday, April 10th in Elphin, Co. Roscommon, starting from An Bothar Rua at 2 pm. This is for all fitness levels and promises to be a great family day out. Registration is on the day – €10 per person or €20 per family. All money raised will go to CROÍ Heart and Stroke Charity, Galway. For further details contact Hazel Gunn on 086-8034350.

Glenamaddy Garden Tunnel Project The Glenamaddy Garden Tunnel Project are delighted to welcome adults from all walks of life to come and get involved in a lovely project at Glenamaddy Community Development Co in Ballyhard – just three miles from Glenamaddy on Mondays from 12 pm (sharp) to 1 pm. With the kind direction of the volunteer organic gardener, it is hoped to sow and tend flower seeds and herbs in the purpose-built garden tunnel adjoining the offices, with a view to generating each participant’s own hanging baskets/planters this summer. A nominal charge of €2 per session applies and includes a free cuppa! Everyone is most welcome, but places are limited to 15. Register at GCDC on 094 9659570/9829 (office hours) or mail: gcdchelen@ gmail.com.

ICA Guild meeting in Hannon’s Hotel Roscommon ICA Guild host their AGM at Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon on Tuesday night (5th of April) at 8 pm. All members requested to attend and new members would be most welcome.

From My Kitchen Table My advice to female drivers…which may help eliminate risk of assaults

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

ast week a 26-year-old woman became the third victim of thugs who are preying on vulnerable drivers by impersonating members of an Garda Síochána. Now, I don’t wish to panic anyone, especially female drivers, so I will add that these attacks occurred in County Wexford and not in Roscommon. However, this is very serious and very worrying, because these thugs could strike anywhere, and for those of us living in rural areas where Garda stations are practically deserted, due to the government’s massive cull, I would urge all drivers to be extremely vigilant, especially when out driving alone. Now according to reports in last week’s Irish Independent, the advice coming from ‘a source,’ presumably someone in the Garda press office, is this: “As a matter of procedure Gardaí, whether uniformed or plain clothed, must carry garda identification with them, and members of the public can ask for this to be produced if they are concerned. However, these incidents are very rare.” Now first of all, I’d say three incidents occurring one after the other in the same county can hardly be described as ‘very rare,’ now can they? Also, if the assailant manages to get close enough for you, his victim, to ask to see identification, then he’s (or they, as in the above cases), are close enough to assault and rob you so that piece of advice is, well, bloody useless I’d say! I mean, when you’re a woman who is out and about, driving alone, minding her own business, and, given these worrying incidents, it’s now clear to me that crashing or breaking

MIRIAM KERINS

down are not the only risks we face; nay, carjacking, assault and battery, robbery, rape and falling prey to bogus police impersonators have now become the crime du jour it seems. While it’s very important not to panic and not to restrict our movements, ladies, because we can become fearful and over-react, I’d like to say that while it’s important to keep the advice of the Indo’s ‘source’ in mind, I’d also like to share some of my own personal safety tips…they may prove useful, they may not; you decide. Always keep your wits about you and be on the lookout for a possible confrontation. Given these recent and serious attacks, I have to confess I’m worried; so if I feel I’m driving safely, am under the speed limit and a ‘garda’ car suddenly appears and flashes and signals for me to pull over, and I suspect the occupants are not genuine, well I think I’ll keep driving at a steady pace, acknowledge that I’m aware of the request to stop by putting on my hazard lights, and head for the nearest

Beware of the ‘thought police’ Last week I heard what I would call one of the most outrageous cases of political correctness I’ve ever experienced. You see readers, it appears the ‘thought police’ have now highjacked, re-shaped and taken the fun out of one of our country’s most loved and most cherished festive traditions; Easter! Yep, it’s true, some anal retentive know-italls at chocolate giants Nestle and Cadbury have apparently declared war on the Easter Bunny by divorcing him from the offending word that is ‘Easter’ removing it from our eggs. However, according to Nestle, editing out that inflammatory word ‘Easter’ was probably just an accident, an oversight because there was “no deliberate decision to drop the word Easter from our products.” Oh right, so it just happened to drop right off the packaging then? Kind of, gone AWOL like? Meanwhile, back at Cadbury’s HQ, the explanation went like this…“The word Easter is still there in small print on the back of the packaging to reassure people

that they are actually eating a chocolate Easter egg.” Oh cheers Einstein, and now while it’s true that brains aren’t everything, in this spokesperson’s case I suspect they’re actually nothing, because you see, the fact is, if something is shaped like an egg and made out of chocolate, and I’m eating it at Easter, then that’ll kinda be my hint, won’t it…but thanks for your insightful explanation. Seriously folks, what will the politically correct ‘thought police’ edit out of our lives next…Paddy’s Day?

police station or to a well-lit area, or a petrol station where there’s people, or even into someone’s drive-in where it’s clear there are occupants in the house. I’ll dial 999 to see if there’s a car patrolling the area and, if needs be, apologise if the nice Gardaí are in fact the genuine article and take my chances with a fine. I do hope they understand. When parking, I always find a well-lit area and reverse into it; that way it’s easy to make a quick getaway should the need arise. I never, ever, park beside a large vehicle that doesn’t have glass side panels; it’s too easy for possible attackers to hide inside undetected. I always have my keys ready in my hand because I don’t intend to give a possible attacker time to grab me as I disappear into my large handbag looking for them; and, once inside my car, all doors are locked immediately. I would never stop for a lone person, especially a man, who flags me down on the side of a rural road. I will however, drive on up the road, pull over and immediately call the Gardaí and advise them of his location. As someone who has absolutely no sense of direction, and who simply cannot read a map, I make sure my route is planned at all times; in fact, hubby draws me what I call ‘an idiot guide map’ – this lowers my risk of getting lost…although it still happens! When stopping for petrol/food/coffee, I never advertise my vulnerability by telling anyone I’m travelling alone by using words like ‘myself and the hubby’ or ‘we’ if a stranger engages me in details regarding my journey. Look ladies, I would imagine that 99 per cent of the time, driving alone is perfectly safe; however, as I’ve said, given recent reports highlighted in the meeja, it’s clear there are exceptions and potential risks; so my final piece of advice is to chat with your friendly local Garda, he/she will be able to provide lots of useful, practical tips that will help to illuminate you and eliminate possible assaults of the kind that occurred in Wexford. Safe driving.

Comhghairdeas Marc! It takes an incredible amount of guts to get up in front of a crowd and sing live; so, this week I’d like to say a massive well done to Boyle native Marc Egan on his performance on RTE’s The Voice of Ireland last weekend. What an entertainer and what a genuinely nice guy. Marc is certainly a positive representative of his family, town and county and, despite the fact he’s said his life has been a rollercoaster in the past, surviving a car crash and a job loss, I’d say that ride is not about to stop any time soon, but from now on, it will be all ups and no downs as I predict lots of interest in this young man’s enormous talent. Comhghairdeas Marc!

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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Man (35) dies after car enters river at Cloonfad < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Last Thursday, for the second time in five days, a fatality occurred on a road in the county when a man died in a single-vehicle accident at Cloonfad in west Roscommon. At around 8 am, Robert Hunt, who was 35, lost his life after his car left the road on the R327 and entered the Dalgan River in the village. He was pronounced dead at the scene and his body was removed to Mayo University Hospital for a postmortem examination. Garda forensic investigators carried out a technical examination of the scene and the local coroner was

Simply eﬀortless.

notified. The road was closed to traffic for a number of hours and road diversions were in place. The incident is being viewed as a tragic accident. Mr. Hunt, who lived at Coolisker, Cloonfad, was buried in Tulrahan Cemetery, Claremorris, on Monday after Funeral Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Cloonfad. Gardaí are appealing for witnesses to the collision to contact Claremorris Garda Station on 094-9372080 or the confidential line on 1800-666111. The previous Sunday evening, Gerry Roan, from Creggs, died after a two-car collision at the Athlone Road, Roscommon town. That was the first death on a road in the county since 2014.

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Al Hayes Motors Ltd. Galway Road, Portumna, Co. Galway. Tel: 090 9742200 www.alhayesmotors.com Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Kayla Bruton, Joe Fox, Karen, Dylan, Ryan and Cormac Bruton. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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‘Number of Garda-assisted psychiatric admissions a major concern’ – PNA < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Breege Callaghan, of the Psychiatric Nurses’ Association, has expressed grave concern at the number of mental health patients who are being involuntarily admitted to the psychiatric unit at Roscommon Hospital. Ms. Callaghan, the union’s western regional representative, said that these admissions, which often involve the Gardaí, were due to a lack of community-based mental health teams being in place in the county.

Under the Mental Health Act 2001, a person may be involuntarily admitted and detained in a psychiatric unit if they are suffering from a mental disorder. An application for such an admission may be made to a doctor by a relative, an authorised officer, a Garda or any other person. In many instances, a patient is then brought to hospital in a Garda car. This is happening far too frequently in Roscommon, Ms. Callaghan said.

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“It’s not fair on the person themselves,” she said. “It’s enough to have to carry the burden of a mental illness without having to end up down that avenue. Someone with a mental illness should not have to end up in our legal system, epecially involving the Gardaí. “It’s an illness. For the person themselves who is very unwell, having to end up in this scenario is really stressful. “In the absence of a fully functional community team, there are not enough

staff on the ground to prevent these things happening.” A review of mental health services in Co. Roscommon is currently ongoing, and Ms. Callaghan said that she expected it would conclude that community services were “very understaffed”. “We are way behind in Roscommon compared to other counties – we could be 20 years behind. It angers me because the people of Roscommon deserve the same service as anybody else in this country,” she said.

Ms. Callaghan said that she was under no doubt that improved community resources would lead to a reduction in involuntary admissions. “Absolutely,” she said. “The more people you have out in the community means you can care for a patient and their family in their home. You are supporting the whole network around a person to aid their recovery. “You don’t have to take somebody out of their home environment.” The Health Service Executive did not respond to requests for comment.

TOP OIL COLOURING COMPETITION WINNERS…

MS Ireland Church Gate Collections this weekend Next weekend, 2nd and 3rd April, Co. Roscommon branch of MS Ireland is holding its Annual Church Gate Collection throughout the county. As this is their main source of income, they are asking for the public’s usual generous support to ensure they can continue the work, which began nearly forty years ago in this area. The branch held its AGM recently at which the following officers were elected – Chairman: Pat Burke, Court Avenue, Roscommon. Contact: 090 6625309 or 087-9235945. Email: pkburke@eircom.net. Vice-Chair: Tony Byrne, 8 Erris Bay, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. (Contact 071 9664702 or 086-2324020). Secretary: Patsy Burke, Lahausk, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon – 071 9635466) or 087-2036119. Treasurer: Teresa Cahill, Kiltobranks, Ballaghaderreen, Roscommon – 094 9861453 or 0868256845. At present, many members are benefiting from ongoing weekly sessions of physiotherapy, which are taking place at Derrane Resource Centre and also at Plunkett Home, Boyle depending on their geographic location. These sessions are designed to complement the good work being done by H.S.E. Community Physiotherapists. Some members avail of facilities at Leitrim Aura Leisure Centre, Carrick-on-Shannon and the Roscommon Leisure Centre and find the exercise very beneficial to their daily wellbeing. The branch also operates a confidential welfare service, in conjunction with professional advice, to help people with multiple sclerosis to cope with the hidden and extra costs of living with MS. Branch meetings and outings give members an opportunity to mix, share experiences and help each other cope with the various problems, which arise from time to time. All this is made possible through fundraising and the branch would like to extend a word of gratitude to each one of our supporters and especially to our loyal church gate collectors.

Pictured is Michael Fallon (Top Oil) presenting a prize to Anna Regan, Athleague, winner of the 7-12 years category in the Top Oil Easter Colouring Competition.

Gemma Mulligan (Top Oil) presenting a prize to Eabha Nally, Carrowmore, Kilteevan, winner of the 6 and under category in the Top Oil Easter Colouring Competition. Also pictured is Eabha’s sister Emma Nally.

Boundary report delay a sign of ‘arrogance’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Ger Aherne, the chairman of Save Roscommon, has strongly criticised the delay in publishing a report on the Athlone boundary review, describing the news as evidence of “deep-seated arrogance” and “disrespect”. It emerged this week that the review committee would not have its report completed, as planned, by March 31, because, they said, of the volume of submissions that were lodged during the process. In total, almost 28,000 submissions were filed, which was reflective of the strident opposition in Co. Roscommon against 38 sq km of the county being moved into Co. Westmeath. Mr. Aherne described the delay as “disap-

pointing, but almost predictable”. He strongly criticised the fact that the news emerged only through the media. “One hundred years after the Rising, we still have flaws in our democracy, in that the citizens are being ignored and treated with contempt,” he said. “There has been no public notice that the deadline will not be met and when it actually will be met. The citizens of Roscommon haven’t been informed; the councillors in Roscommon and Westmeath have not been informed officially. “There is a deep-seated arrogance in all of that, coupled with disrespect.” While the review committee are responsible for the report, having been commissioned to undertake the project by acting Minister for the

Environment Alan Kelly, Mr. Aherne did not solely direct his anger at them. “We have an acting Minister; we have a government department which is responsible. The buck stops with them,” Mr. Aherne said. Conscious that the election outcome and the scale of the opposition to any border change may have led to complacency recently, he added: “The biggest danger to the Save Roscommon campaign initially was apathy and complacency. We now have another form of apathy and complacency because we got such an overwhelmingly negative response.” He said, however, that until there was a “clear and unambiguous report” saying “this can never happen”, boundary change remain a live possibility.

Your next Blood Donation Clinic Your next blood donation clinic will be held in the Hyde GAA Centre, Roscommon town on Tuesday 5th, Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th of April 2016. From 5 pm-8.30 pm. See giveblood.ie. You get more than you give!

Roscommon Town Team public meeting on CCTV Scheme Roscommon Town Team are hosting a public information meeting in Gleeson’s Townhouse, The Square, Roscommon on Thursday, 7th of April at 7 pm regarding the installation of a Community CCTV Scheme for the town. All members of the public are welcome to attend. This scheme is to be funded by Roscommon County Council through Roscommon Town Team and it is hoped that the first phase will be completed this year.

Pictured at the Irish Restaurant Awards which took place recently at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Sligo were Martin Maguire, La Rousse Foods, Adrian Grealy, Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, and Adrian Cummins of the Restaurants Association. The Abbey Hotel was presented with the award for Best Chef for Alison Crean of the hotel’s Terrace Restaurant.

Pictured at the Irish Restaurant Awards which took place recently at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Sligo were Hilary Tubridy of Elavon, Adrian Grealy, Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, and Adrian Cummins of the Restaurants Association. The Abbey Hotel received the award for ‘Best Hotel Restaurant’ for the Terrace Restaurant.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

NewsPeople What was your family doing in 1916? To mark the centenary of the Easter Rising, family history experts from Findmypast and Eneclann are touring Ireland to help you trace your ancestors. This event, scheduled as part of the Roscommon Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme involved genealogical service providers Eneclann and Findmypast coming together to provide the following service for free throughout the day in Roscommon Library recently. The organistions provided the following services: Expert advice on family history research, free access to billions of online records with Findmypast, the opportunity to talk to an expert genealogist one on one, free talks on Irish family history related topics and promotional competitions to win publications or free research advice.

The Rising remembered: Young participants in the Strokestown Easter Parade last Sunday. Picture: Andrew Fox

Locals join in commemorating 1916 Rising Centenary

Members of the Defence Forces, parading through the streets of Dublin during the commemoration of the centenary of the 1916 Rising, last weekend. Photograph: Philip Jones/ MKC Communications.

A large number of people from Co. Roscommon travelled to Dublin last weekend to attend the historic Easter Sunday Commemoration Ceremony and Parade as the Irish state formally marked the Centenary of the 1916 Rising. More than 260,000 people lined the streets of the Capital. A number of people from Co. Roscommon attended the proceedings, along with many from the Galway village of Ballymoe, where Eamonn Ceannt, one of the Proclamation’s signatories, was from. In Co. Roscommon, commemorations were held in Ballaghaderreen, Arigna, Ballinlough and Ballyleague over the weekend. More than 200 people attended the 2016 Easter Commemoration at the grave of William Partridge in Ballaghaderreen on Saturday afternoon. Deputy Martin Kenny, the newly-elected Sligo-Leitrim TD, gave the oration. Castlerea-based Seamus O’Brien read the ‘Roscommon Roll of Honour’, comprising the names of those from the county involved in the Rising. Ballaghaderreen’s Claire Kerrane read the Proclamation.

Events in Elphin and Ballinlough The centenary of the 1916 Rising was marked at the IRA memorial in Elphin on Easter Sunday. The town echoed with the sound of bagpipes and drums as the Raheen Pipe Band led by a Colour Party headed the parade to the memorial at Shankill Cross. The large monument was erected to honour all that died in the fight for freedom in the county. The last time a commemoration was held here was in 1991 to mark the 75th anniversary of the Rising. There was a special unveiling of a plaque at the Shankill site to honour the men who were in-

volved in the erection of the county memorial which was erected in 1963. The unveiling was performed by Padraig McKeown, Croghan, whose father Patrick, an IRA veteran, had been one of the original committee members involved in the monument’s construction. Among the wreathes that were laid at the Roll of Honour tablet was one on behalf of the relatives of all that died for the Republic during 19161923. This wreath was laid by Dermott Mullooly, whose uncle was shot by Black and Tans the day after the Scramogue ambush.

Earlier in the day a ceremony was held at the Republican monument in Ballinlough at 12 pm. The Ballinlough ceremony commemorates Volunteers Michael Glavey, Michael Keane and Patrick Glynn who were killed in action at the destruction of Ballinlough RIC barracks in 1920. Pictured on at a commemoration of the 1916 Rising in Elphin on Easter Sunday is Padraig McKeown, Croghan, unveiling a plaque in honour of those who erected the IRA memorial in Elphin in 1963.

Brian Donovan (Eneclann) photographed with Richie Farrell (County Librarian) at the Genealogy Event held in Roscommon Library to mark the centenary of the Easter Rising. Pic: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Naughten: ‘Let’s take lead from 1916 rebels’ As negotiations about forming a government continue, Independent TD Denis Naughten has urged the leaders of the country to take their lead from the 1916 rebels – and rebuild Ireland. Speaking at Ballinlough last Sunday, at celebrations to mark the centenary of the Rising, the Roscommon man hailed those who led the rebellion. “Their actions spurred on those who were to fight in the War of Independence, where our leaders set aside their differences to fight side by side for the establishment of the Republic, of that Proclamation.” Deputy Naughten said that today, more than ever, our leaders needed to “take from these examples of self-sacrifice”, and set aside their differences in the interests of our country and its people. “We urgently need to establish a climate of co-operation in this country by developing a shared vision of a confident and sustainable future for Ireland,” Deputy Naughten said.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON LEISURE CENTRE REVISED OPENING HOURS APRIL 2016 Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

7.00 a.m. - 8.00 p.m. 10.00 a.m. - 8.00 p.m. 7.00 a.m. - 9.00 p.m. 10.00 a.m. - 9.00 p.m. 7.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.

For details on PUBLIC SWIM SESSIONS please contact Roscommon Leisure Centre on 090 6628219 or www.roscommonleisurecentre.ie The Management wishes to apologise for any inconvenience caused

Improve your health with Taoist Tai Chi Tai Chi is a gentle art of health and well-being suitable for people of all ages and health conditions and promotes health and relieves stress. The fast-paced yet sedentary nature of modern life often results in stress and lack of sufficient physical activity. Taoist Tai Chi™ arts are an effective way to counteract these pressures and to cultivate health. The benefits include: improved circulation, balance and posture; increased strength and flexibility; and reduced stress. With regular practice, these internal arts reach deep inside the body to benefit the entire physiology including the tendons, joints, spine, connective tissue and internal organs. The slow, gentle movements allow every part of the body to be exercised without strain, releasing tension and reducing stress restoring the calmness and peace of mind that is often missing. As the body and mind cannot be separated each step in the training is intended to help the mind return to stillness, clarity and wisdom, and the body to a balanced, relaxed and healthy state. For information on local daytime and evening classes, call 089-4482769, or see www.taoist.ie.

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Screening is non invasive and is 99.17% as accurate as an angiogram. This device also tests the stiffness of the arteries, (as we get older our arteries get stiff with a build-up of plaque and cholesterol which can prevent the blood from flowing freely). The Screening tests your heart, your arteries and blood pressure, giving you your overall heart health.

Tuesday 5th April - Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone Tuesday 19th April - Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone Tuesday 12th April - Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone Tuesday 26th April - Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone TIME: 10.45am until LATE COST: €50 per person or €90 per couple (cash/cheque only)

To book an appointment or for further information call Anna on 086 413 5555 or Jimmy on 086 2566 422 email: heartfeltcardioscreening@gmail.com Web: www.bproheartfeltcardioscreening.com Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/ HEARTFELT-CARDIO-SCREENING/473318246132004

Comhairle Contae Roscomáin ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL

Draft Castlerea Local Area Plan 2016 – 2022 In accordance with Section 20 of the Planning & Development Acts 2000-2015, notice is hereby given that Roscommon County Council proposes to make a Local Area Plan for the period 2016-2022, for • CASTLEREA LOCAL AREA In addition, Roscommon County Council has prepared an Environmental Report of the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the Local Area Plan in accordance with the Planning & Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004-2011. Habitats Directive Assessment (Appropriate Assessment) of the Local Area Plan has been carried out pursuant to Article 6 of the Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC. Strategic Flood Risk Assessment has also been undertaken. Copies of the Draft Local Area Plan for Castlerea, together with Environmental Report for the Plan will be on public display from Thursday March 31st, 2016 to Tuesday May 17th, 2016 (both dates inclusive, but excluding bank holidays). Copies of the Draft Local Area Plan may be inspected at the following location:1. The Planning Office, Roscommon County Council, Aras An Chontae, Roscommon, during the hours 9.30 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.30p.m., Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays. Other locations where the Draft may be viewed:2. Castlerea Area Office, Courthouse, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. (opening hours 9.30 – 1.00 and 2.00 – 5.30 Monday to Friday)

Regina Reynolds, National Organ Donor Coordinator, ODTI; Ambassador Vivienne Traynor; and Monica Finn, member of the IKA national board and Roscommon branch, IKA.

Boyle man: ‘Double lung transplant saved my life’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

3. The Draft Local Area Plan can also be viewed on Roscommon County Council’s website: www.roscommoncoco.ie Submissions or observations, in writing or via email, may be made during the stated period and should be marked “Castlerea Local Area Plan 2016-2022”, and submitted to: Forward Planning Section, Roscommon County Council, Aras An Chontae, Roscommon. Or email forwardplan@roscommoncoco.ie Children, or groups or associations representing the interests of children, are entitled to make submissions or observations. Submissions or observations must be received by 4.30 p.m. on Tuesday May 17th, 2016. The name of the person and /or body making the submission or observation should be stated. Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed Local Area Plan & Environmental Report made to Roscommon County Council within the stated period will be taken into consideration. Martin Lydon Director of Service Planning & Enterprise

Date: March 24th, 2016

A Boyle man has told a moving story of how his life was transformed when he received a double lung transplant. Gordon Ryan, 38, underwent the surgery in the Mater Hospital, Dublin, in July 2013, and, with that, his life was transformed. Gordon was born with cystic fibrosis, but it was only when he was in his early 20s that the ravages of the condition began to take hold. “It is a progressive illness that affects the lung function because you get repeated lung infections. I was in and out of hospital consistently throughout my mid and late 20s, just getting sicker and sicker,” Gordon said. Having studied law at University College Galway, as it was known at the time, Gordon worked in the profession in Dublin until 2008. A deterioration in his health forced him to return to his north Roscommon home. “I couldn’t life independently, I was so

sick,” Gordon said, looking back on a very bleak seven-year period of his life. Eventually, the downward cycle was halted three years ago, when he received his transplant. Since then, he has lived life to the full. “I have been a different person. I am totally able to do lots more. It’s been a total transformation,” Gordon said. “I am able to do anything I want now. I went to New York last summer, which was a dream, because I couldn’t fly for six years as I was so sick.” Gordon is currently training to be a journalist and is doing work experience with Ocean FM, the radio station, at Collooney, Co. Sligo. The remarkable recovery is without doubt attributable to his donor, whom he is extremely grateful to. “Without their decision to donate, I would not be alive,” Gordon said. Gordon was speaking in advance of the Irish Kidney Association’s Organ Donor Awareness Week, which runs from April 2 to 9. See www.ika.ie

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

NewsPeople

Dr. Elizabeth Sweeney McSharry Wishes to sincerely thank her patients for their good wishes and continued support during her recent relocation

ESB

Isabelle Killeen, Ronan Kelly and Ellen Regan all won World Dancing titles in Glasgow last week. A gala homecoming was held in Ballaghaderreen to toast the stunning success by the three locals. At the reception, held on Easter

Saturday, Isabelle, Ronan and Ellen are pictured showing off the World Championship Globes which they won. Ronan won the U-16 Boys world title (his fifth world title). Isabelle was a member of the U-13 World

Championship winning Ceili team and Ellen was a member of the team that won the U-11 Ceili world title. The trio dance with the Sylvan Kelly School of Dance in Ballina, Co. Mayo.

Family Care

The Skin & Hair Spa

Castle Stre

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Darragh Conroy, Argyle Hogg, Eoin Conroy and Aaron Hogg. Picture: Andrew Fox

We are here

––

Cherryside, Castle Street, Roscommon Town Telephone Number: 090 66 34404 Practice Secretary Mobile: Roscommon Town 086 1711777 Enquiries welcome at Family Care Courtyard Parking also available at the rear of the Surgery ––––––––––

Home are the… world champs!

–––––––––– ––

New patients are welcome at the NEW SURGERY

Parent Evening with Anam Cara Anam Cara is holding its monthly ‘Parent Evening’ on Wednesday, 6th of April from 7.30 pm to 9 pm in the Ballybane Enterprise Centre, Ballybane, Co. Galway (weather dependent). Anam Cara

services are available free of charge to all bereaved parents. For further information please see our website at www.anamcara. ie email us at info@anamcara.ie or call 01 4045378.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

TRANS-

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

VOLKSWAGEN RANGE Volkswagen Tiguan 20TDI Life /Leisure Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI H/L Model Volkswagen Passat TDI C/L Choice Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI Comfortline Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI Alloys Extras Volkswagen Tiguan 20TDI Life /Leisure Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Volkswagen Passat 1.6 C/L Estate Volkswagen Jetta TDI Volkswagen Golf TDI Volkswagen Polo 1.0 5Dr Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI SV Extras Volkswagen Polo Cross TDI Volkswagen UP 1.0 5Dr (more) Volkswagen Polo 1.4 TDI Volkswagen Polo 1.2 TDI Volkswagen Golf TDI Sport Model ( white) Volkswagen Polo 1.2TDI Volkswagen Beetle 1.6TDI DSV Volkswagen Jetta TDI Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP C/L Volkswagen Passat 1.6 TDI C/L ( white) Volkswagen Jetta TDI C/L Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L Volkswagen Golf TDI ( 15K) Volkswagen Jetta TDI C/L Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L Volkswagen Polo 1.2 5Dr Volkswagen Polo 1.2TDI 5 DR Volkswagen Golf 1.2TSI Match petrol Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI Volkswagen Beetle 2.0TDI 140 Volkswagen Golf “R” Line TDI Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI Highline Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L Volkswagen Jetta TDI Volkswagen Polo 1.2TDI Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L Volkswagen Jetta TDI C/L Volkswagen Polo 1.2 5DR Volkswagen Golf 2.0TDI H/L Volkswagen Golf 1.4 Petrol Sports 3Dr Volkswagen Polo 1.4TDI Volkswagen Golf 1.9TDI C/L Volkswagen Polo 1.2 5Dr C/L Volkswagen Golf 1.9 TDI Volkswagen Polo 1.2 5Dr Volkswagen Golf 1.4 5DR (70K) Volkswagen Golf TDI 5Dr Volkswagen Golf 1.9TDI estate Volkswagen Golf 1.4 5DR petrol Volkswagen Golf 1.4 5Dr PEUGEOT RANGE Peugeot Partner1.6 DSL Van Peugeot 207 1.4 HDI Peugeot Partner Dsl Van LWB Peugeot 407 1.6HDI ( Solar) Peugeot 308 1.4 Petrol

€27,500 €29,500 €27,500 €23,500 €24,500 €26,500 €25,500 €28,500 €21,000 €21,000 €13,500 €23,500 €16,500 €11,000 €16,500 €14,800 €19,950 €14,500 €22,500 €19,500 €24,500 €21,500 €21,000 €19,950 €18,500 €15,000 €17,500 €12,500 €13,000 €15,000 €16,500 €18,500 €18,000 €13,950 €15,000 €13,950 €11,500 €12,500 €11,500 €9,000 €9,950 €10,500 €8,500 €8,500 €6,500 €7,500 €4,750 €6,500 €5,500 €5,000 €5,000 €3,500 €6,750 €8,500 €7,500 €7,500 €8,000

2007 2006 2006 2006 2004 2004 161 151 151 151 151 142 141 132 132 132 132 131 131 131 131 2012 2012 2012 2011 2011 2011 2010 2010 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 2007 2007 2005 161 161 161 161 161 152 152 152 151 151 142 142 142 141 141 141 141 141 131 131

Peugeot 407 DSL €4,500 Peugeot 307 1.6 DSL €4,500 Peugeot 206 5DR ( 80K) €4,000 Peugeot 206 1.4 DSL €4,500 Peugeot 308 1.4DSL €2,000 Peugeot 407 Petrol €1,350 AUTOMATIC RANGE Mitsubishi L200 €28,500 + VAT Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L €29,500 Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI €25,500 Volkswagen Polo 1.4TDI €19,500 Audi A3 1.6TDI 5 Dr Extras €28,500 Volkswagen Golf SV 1.6TDI C/L €24,000 Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI Highline €22,500 Volkswagen Caddy Maxi 7 seater €22,500 Hyundai 140 12.7DSL Estate €19,500 Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI 5Dr €19,500 Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI C/L €19,500 Audi A6 2.0TDI 177HP Leather Extras €29,500 Volkswagen Touran 2.0TDI 140BHP €23,500 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0TDI 7Seater €29,500 Opel Insignia 2.0TDI 150HP Full Leather €22,500 Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI Plus €18,500 Volkswagen Golf 1.6TDI Comfortline €18,500 Ford Galaxy TDI 7 Seater Extras €22,500 Nissan Micra 1.2 5Dr €9,500 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140HP Comfortline €17,500 Volkswagen Golf 1.6tdi 5Dr (20K) €16,500 Volvo S40 2.0DSL Leather €13,500 Kia Soul 1.6DSL €11,500 Volkswagen Caddy TDI €8,500 BMW 320 Coupe 2.0 €13,500 Audi A6 2.0TDI 140HP €11,500 Opel Astra 1.4 SXI €5,500 Mercedes E200 1.8 €7,950 Volkswagen Passat 1.6 Comfortline €6,000 Audi A4 2.0TDI €8,500 Mercedes E320 DSL €4,500 COMMERCIAL RANGE Volkswagen Crafter 2.0TDI SWB €19,500 + VAT Volkswagen Crafter 2.0TDI 136BHP MWB €23,500 + VAT Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI SWB Trendline €21,750 + VAT Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI 102BHP LWB €20,750 + VAT Volkswagen Caddy 2.0TDI choice €14,500 + VAT Volkswagen Caddy 1.6TDI €13,500+ VAT Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI LWB 104BHP €19,500+VAT Volkswagen Caddy TDI 7 Seater €27,500 Volkswagen Caddy 1.6TDI Kombi 5 Seater (€330Road Tax) €20,000+VAT Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI SWB Choice €18,500 + VAT Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI 140BHP LWB €19,500+VAT Volkswagen Caddy 1.6TDI €11,500+VAT Ford Transit Connect ( 3 seater) €14,950 Volkswagen Caddy 2.0TDI 140BHP Extras Choice €12,500 + VAT Volkswagen Caddy 1.6TDI Maxi Trendline €14,000 + VAT Volkswagen Caddy 1.6TDI Choice €11,500 + VAT Volkswagen Transporter 20TDI SWB €17,500+VAT Citroen Berlingo ( 3 seater) Extras €13,500 Volkswagen Crafter 2.0TDI MWB High Roof €17,500+ VAT Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI LWB 102BHP Black €18,000+VAT

131 2011 2010 2009 2008 2008 2007 2006 2004 152 152 151 132 132 132 132 131 131 131 2012 2011 2011 2011 2011 2010 2010 2009 2008 2008 2008 2008 2007 2007 2007 2005 2005 2000 141 2010 2010 2008 2007 2006 2006 2005 2005 2002 132 2011 2011 2010 2008 2008 2005 2004

Volkswagen Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater €23,500 Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI 102 SWB €13,000 +VAT Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI 102 LWB ( New Model) €14,500 Volkswagen Transporter 2.5TDI 130|BHP LWB Silver €11,500 Volkswagen Transporter 2.5TDI 130BHP Kombi ( 5 seater ) €11,500 + VAT Volkswagen Transporter 2.5TDI 130BHP LWB €9,500 Volkswagen Transporter 2.5TDI 130BHP SWB €8,000 Volkswagen Transporter 2.5TDI 130 BHP LWB €6,500 Volkswagen Transporter 1.9TDI SWB €4,500 BUSES RANGE Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Life 7 seater 1.6TDI €27,500 Volkswagen Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater Sunroof €28,500 Volkswagen Shuttle 2.0TDI 115BHP LWB 9 Seater €38,500 Citroen Multi Space 1.6TDI Passenger €16,500 Volkswagen Shuttle Bus 9 seater €32,500 Volkswagen Sharan 2.0TDI 7 Seater €29,500 Volkswagen Touran 1.6TDI €24,500 Nissan Qashqai 1.6 DSL +2 7 Seater €24,500 Volkswagen Touran 1.6TDI €22,500 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 7Seater 4x4 Automatic €29,500 Volkswagen Touran 1.6TDI €18,500 Volkswagen Touran 1.6TDI Comfortline €17,500 Volkswagen Caravelle 2.0TDI 140HP 7 Seater Extras €28,500 Volkswagen Sharan 2.0TDI 140HP 7 Seater €21,000 Citroen C4 Picasso 1.6DSL 7 Seater Automatic €11,500 Nissan Qashqai + 2 1.5DSL 7 seater €14,500 Toyota Hiace 2.5DSL Bus 13 Seater €16,500 Ford Galaxy 1.8 Ghia Leather €13,500 Ford Galaxy 1.8DSl 7 Seater €11,500 Toyota Corolla Verso 7 Seater 1.6 €8,500 Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0TDI 7 seater €9,500 Opel Zafari 1.6 Petrol 7 seater €5,500 Toyota Corolla Verso DSL 7 Seater €6,500 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0TDI 7 seater €7,500 Volkswagen Shuttle 9 Seater Bus LWB Extras €15,000 Ssangyong Rodius 2.7 DSL 7 Seater €4,500 Ford Galaxy 1.9TDI 7 seater €5,500 Citroen Multispace DSL Passenger ( NCT ) €2,000 MERCEDES RANGE Mercedes Vito 113CDI €17,500 Mercedes Vito DSL €10,500 Mercedes Sprinter DSL €12,500 + VAT Mercedes Sprinter DSL €8,500 + VAT Mercedes E200 €9,500 Mercedes C180 €6,500 Mercedes A180 DSL €4,500 Mercedes E320 CDII Sp. DSL €6,000 Mercedes E270 DSL A/T €4,500 Mercedes E220 DSL A/T €3,000 RENAULT RANGE Renault Clio 1.2 5Dr Dynamic €11,500 Renault Megane 1.5DSl €9,500 Renault Kangoo 1.5DSL €8,500 Renault Clio 1.2 5Dr €8,500 Renault Laguna DSL €4,500 Renault Grand Scenic 1.5DSL Comm €4,500 Renault Megane 1.5DSL €2,000 Renault Megane 1.4 H/B €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

Contact Sales:

CILLIAN 087 4376755

JOHN 087 7991685

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

4 X 4 JEEP RANGE

2007 Audi A6 2.0TDI

€7,500

161

Volkswagen Touareg 2.0TDSI DSG Commercial choice

2006 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDi

€6,500

161

Volkswagen Amarok 2.0 180HP H/l Extras Canapy, Bootliner + Towbar

2005 Volkswagen Golf 1.9TDI

€5,500

€50,000 + VAT

2004 Skoda Octavia 1.6

€2,000

161

Volkswagen Amarok 2.0DSL 140HP ( white)

€30,000 + VAT

2003 Ford Mondeo 1.8 DSL

€2,000

161

Mitsubishi L200 Automatic

€28,500 + VAT

2001 Ford Focus 1.4

€1,500

151

Mitsubishi outlander 2.2 Choice

€24,000 + VAT

151

Mitsubishi L 200 Crew Cab

€28,5200

142

Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 SWB

€32,000

€45,500 + VAT

141

Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2

€21,000 + VAT

132

Mitsubishi L200 Crew Cab

€22,500

131

Volkswagen Amarok 2.0TDI 180BHP

€28,500

2012 Volkswagen Amarok 2.0TDI 163HP Canapy

€20,000 + VAT

2012 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 LWB

€15,000 + VAT

2011 Mitsubishi L200 Crew Cab ( choice)

€16,500

2011 Volkswagen Amarok 2.0TDI 163HP Canapy

€17,000 + VAT

2011 Volkswagen Transporter 2.0TDI 140HP 4X4 Trendline

€15,000 + VAT

2011 Ford Kugo 2.0DSL 2WD 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0 4x4

€12,500 €12,000 + VAT

2010 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2DSL Passenger

€13,500

2009 Ford Ranger 2.5 DSL Crew Cab

€11,500

2008 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 DSL Commercial 2007 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 LWB 2007 Mitsubishi Pajero Sports 2.5DSl LWB

€8,500 €11,500 €8,500

2005 Toyota Landcruiser 3.0 LWB

€8,500

2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 LWB A/T ( White)

€6,000

2004 Mitsubishi L200 2.5 Crew Cab

€6,500

2003 Landrover Discovery 2.8DSL Passenger

€4,000

2002 Mitsubishi L200 2.5 Crew Cab

€3,500

2001 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 SWB

€4,000

ESTATE CARS

2012 Volkswagen Jetta 1.6TDI C/L

€12,500

2012 Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI C/L

€13,500

2011 Ford Mondeo 2.0DSL Extras

€10,500

2011 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Estate C/L

€11,500

2010 Ford Focus DSL H/B

€7,500

2010 Ford Focus Van TCDI White

€6,500

2009 Opel Astra 1.4 5Dr

€6,500

2009 Opel Corsa 1.2 5Dr

€6,500

2009 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI

€9,000

2008 Ford Focus 1.4 5DR

€5,500

2008 Vauxhall Vectra 1.9DSL estate

€5,000

2007 Lexus IS220 DSL

€6,000

2007 Toyota Avensis DSL

€6,500

2007 Renault Megane 1.4 Estate

€2,000

2006 Volkswagen Golf 1.4 Plus

€4,500

2006 Volkswagen Passat 1.9TDI Est

€4,500

2005 Volkswagen Sharan 1.9TDI 7 seater

€4,500

2005 Hyundai Accent

€3,000

2005 Mercedes E270 A/T

€4,500

2005 Opel Corsa

€2,500

2004 Toyota Avensis DSL

€2,000

2004 Volkswagen Bora DSL

€3,500

2004 Ford Focus 1.4 5 Dr

€2,000

1999 Ford Focus 1.6 Sal

€1,000

161

Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Trendline Extras

€31,000

161

Mitsubishi ASX 1.8DSL ( White) Leather

€28,500

152

Volkswagen Golf 1.6SV Comfortline

€24,500

131

Ford Focus 1.6DSL

€15,000

Opel Corsa 1.2 5Dr

€10,500

OTHER MAKES

152

Peugeot 2008 1.4 DSL

€18,500

131

151

Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Highline

€31,000

2011 Audi A3 1.6 TDI 5DR

€14,500 €16,500

151

Volkswagen Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline

€29,500

2011 Audi A4 2.0TDI

151

Volkswagen Golf 2.0TDI 150BHP Highline Estate

€29,500

2010 Suburu Justy 1.0 5Dr

€6,000 €7,500

151

Volkswagen Golf 1.6 Comfortline

€25,500

2009 Opel Zafari 7 Seater DSl

151

Volkswagen Golf 1.6 SV Comfortline

€23,500

2009 Seat Ibiza 1.2 Petrol

€6,500 €11,500

151

Skoda rapid 1.6 DSL estate

€16,500

141

Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140 HP Highline

€25,500

2009 Suzuki Swift 1.3 5Dr

€6,500

141

Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140HP Comfortline

€24,500

2008 Audi A4 20TDI 143BHP

132

Hyundai 140 Exect A/T

€19,500

2007 Opel Vectra DSL

€10,500 €5,000 €6,500

131

Volkswagen Touran 1.6DSL 5 Seater

€21,500

2007 Audi A6 2.0TDI Estate

131

Nissan Qashqai DSL

€18,500

2007 Suburu Impresso

€4,500

€17,500

2006 Nissan Navara DSl 4x4

€7,500

2012 Volkswagen Touran 1.6DSl 5 seater

€18,500

2006 Suzuki Liana 1.3

€3,000

2011 Volkswagen Passat 2.0TDI 140HP C/L

€12,500

2006 Saab 95 1.9DSl

€4,500

2011 Toyota 2.0DSL Estate

€11,500

2006 Saab 93 1.8 Carbrio

€4,500

2010 Peugeot 3008 1.6DSL

€12,500

2005 Volkswagen Bora TDI

€3,500

2004 Toyota Avensis DSL

€2,000

2012 Peugeot 3008 2.0DSL HDI Extras ( 20K)

2007 Skoda Octavia 1.9TDI Estate

€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

JOHN 087 7991685

Ennis/Portumna JOB ROLE:

SPECIAL OFFERS

2009 Nissan Navara DSL

SALES EXECUTIVE REQUIRED • Achieving and exceeding agreed targets regarding new and used vehicle sales, motor finance and insurance sales accessory and related product sales. • Working with the sales team to deliver exceptional standards of customer care and satisfaction • Managing and working through an established sales process to increase new and used vehicle sale volumes • Using database and leads management tools to maximise sales opportunities • Promoting the company and VW/Skoda brands with integrity and professionalism JOB REQUIREMENTS: • Results and target driven sales professional with 2-5 years relevant experience in a main franchise dealership • Honest and reliable with very strong communication skills and able to work as part of a sales team to achieve agreed targets and objectives • IT and computer literate with good organisation skills displaying attention to detail • Energetic, enthusiastic and a self-motivator • Full clean driver’s licence The successful candidate will be offered attractive terms, including a secure permanent position in a company committed to growth and continuous development and training

Interested candidates, please apply with covering letter and enclosing CV to: sales@alhayesmotors.com OR IN WRITING TO: The Managaing Director, Al Hayes Motors Ltd., Portumna, Co. Galway Tel: 090 97 42200 or 090 97 41390

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

NewsPeople

THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club North/South – 1st: L. Shine & K. Murray, 2nd: P. & S. Cooney, 3rd: E. Kelly & M. Dermody. East/West – 1st: S. Moloney & K. Holmes, 2nd: N. McDonagh & K. Blighe, 3rd: T. & M. O’Keeffe. St. Coman’s Bridge Club Maureen Mulryan Memorial – 1st: G. Kenny & M. Fallon, 2nd: M. Pullinger & M. Law, 3rd: S. Farrell & B. McCarthy. North/South – 1st: C. McGrath & N. Costello, 2nd: M. Hickey & G. Spillane, 3rd: O. Fahy & A. Murray. East/West – 1st: B. Maher & J. O’Gara, 2nd: A. Flynn & N. Hynes, 3rd: E. Mulry & K. Gately. Ballymurray Bridge Club Section A North/South – 1st: F. Keane & B. Gillooly, 2nd: M. Dolan & K. Coyle, 3rd: J. Hunt & A. Gaffney. East/West – 1st: B. Maher & F. Neilan, 2nd: T. McManus & M. McSharry, 3rd: E. Curley & A. Hewitt. Section B North/South – 1st: M. Hickey & R. Roughneen, 2nd: G. Bannon & P. Finneran, 3rd: J. Devaney & G. Spillane. East/West – 1st: A. Kilduff & C. Browne, 2nd: G. Finn & S. Hickey, 3rd: M. Naughton & K. Gately.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION The prophet Daniel in a vision saw “One like the Son of Man” receive everlasting kingship (see Daniel 7:9-14). John is taken to heaven in today’s Second Reading where He sees Daniel’s prophecy fulfilled in Jesus, who appears as “One like a Son of Man.” Jesus is clad in the robe of a High Priest (see Exodus 28:4; Wisdom 18:24) and wearing the gold sash of a King (see 1 Maccabees 10:89). He has been exalted by the right hand of the Lord, as we sing in today’s Psalm. His risen body, which the Apostles touch in today’s Gospel, has been made a life-giving Spirit (see 1 Corinthians 15:45). As the Father anointed Him with the Spirit and power (see Acts 10:38), Jesus pours out that Spirit on the Apostles, sending them into the world “as the Father has sent Me.” Jesus “breathes” the Spirit of His divine life into the Apostles – as God blew the “breath of life” into Adam (see Genesis 2:7), as Elijah’s prayer returned “the life breath” to the dead child (see 1 Kings 17:2123), and as the Spirit breathed new life into the slain in the valley of bones (see Ezekiel 37:9-10). His creative breath unites the Apostles – His Church – to His body, and empowers them to breathe His life into a dying world, to make it a new creation. In today’s Gospel and First Reading, we see the Apostles fulfilling this mission, with powers only God possesses – the power to forgive sins and to work “signs and wonders,” a biblical expression only used to describe the mighty works of God (see Exodus 7:3; 11:10; Acts 7:36). Thomas and the others saw “many other signs” after Jesus was raised from the dead. They saw and they believed. They have been given His life, which continues in the Church’s Word and sacraments, so that we who have not seen might inherit His blessings, and “have life in His name.” – 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 No tricolour in the garden – but I’m in debt to heroes of 1916 FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

am a proud son of Eire and forever in the debt of the 1916 heroes.The sun is shining on this Monday afternoon and, as it is the Easter Monday, I am on a day off from work and so I find myself on my almost daily walk up Lenamarla and, to my surprise, I come across the first primroses of the spring. I love this time of year, when the daffodils and the primroses are in bloom and when the lambs are playing in the fields and of course with the clocks going forward yesterday (Sunday) we have a great stretch in the evenings. When you throw in the tranquility and beauty of the Lenamarla countryside, you would be forgiven for thinking that all was well in my little world. However there was something nagging me (not Carol) and I think it stemmed from a phone call I got from my son, Mark, who was back in Dublin after being at home for the weekend. He told me that, just

Members of the Defence Forces parading through the streets of Dublin during the commemoration of the centenary of the 1916 Rising. Photography: Philip Jones/MKC Communications.

as on Easter Sunday, the city was packed with thousands of people celebrating and commemorating the Centenary of the Easter Rising. So what was, or is, wrong with me that I didn’t go anywhere, not even to the parade in Roscommon, to honour the heroes of 1916 – and why didn’t I feel the need to go to our Capital city to see all the stuff at the

GPO, which, in fairness, was a credit to the country (I saw it on the telly), like people I saw on The News who had travelled from all corners of Ireland? I am almost ashamed that I did nothing to celebrate the weekend – not even having the tricolour flying in the garden – and yet I like to think I am as Irish as the next man. I remember very well my late father teaching us all

The West’s Awake… On Easter Sunday I took the easy way out, by parking myself in front of the telly, instead of going to Hyde Park to watch the big match between Roscommon and Mayo. I imagine there is plenty in the paper elsewhere about it, but all I want to say is that the conditions ruined it and I don’t believe, despite what they might say, that either management team learned much new information about their respective teams. The horrible state of the pitch suited the bigger, more physical Mayo men, but if and when they meet again, hopefully on a dry summer’s day, the Rossies will feel they are more than a match for the five-in-a-row Connacht champions. I watched the Dubs against the ultradefensive Donegal men on Saturday night and I am pretty certain that they will retain their All-Ireland title or at least that whoever beats them will

win Sam. Returning to Connacht, although this time to the rugby team, I missed out on their wonderful win over the Leinster lads in the Pro 12 because I was watching our local footballers in action against Castlerea in the Tansey Cup, also on Saturday evening. It’s hard to believe that it’s only a few years since the rugby people of the province had to march to stop the big-wigs up in Dublin from disbanding them. As the men from the west (and lots of other places) sit proudly on top of the Pro 12 League table on this March Monday evening, I wonder how do the same big-wigs (nearly wrote earwigs!) feel about their unsuccessful efforts to close down the Western province. It may still prove a bit beyond them to actually win the league outright, but whatever happens, they have been a revelation this season and there’s no doubt, like in the words of the song, The West’s Awake!

about those brave Irishmen who laid down their lives so that my generation and future ones could have a country of our own. The names of Pearse and Connolly, and the rest of the heroes, were sewn into my brain, and many years later I

could still rhyme them off as if I heard about them yesterday, so, even if I didn’t go to Dublin, now that I’ve thought about it, I am happy enough to acknowledge that I am a proud son of Eire and forever in the debt of the 1916 heroes.

Work this one out… A survey by office supplies firm, Viking, has found that more than half of all workers will suffer increased fatigue or disturbed sleep caused by the clocks going forward by an hour on Saturday night last. Maybe I’m a bit of a cynic but I’d say they might be tired because it was Easter Saturday night and they were socialising ‘till the early hours! Even a pillar of society, like myself, was out that night and, if the truth be told, I was like a wet rag all day Sunday and only came back to myself on Monday morning. Sadly I repeated the dose last night (Easter Monday) and the wet rag is back again this morning. So if you are tired, irritable and lacking concentration, in my opinion it has nothing at all to do with the time change, but more to do with whatever social activities you undertook at the weekend.

And ﬁnally… Finally for this week, I want to remind you of a Table Quiz taking place in Mikeen’s on Friday night, April 1st (also Adrian Leddy’s birthday – happy birthday Adrian), in aid of Anthony Rowan’s Volunteer trip to Morogoro, Tanzania in June/July with

the UCD Volunteers overseas. Table of 4 cost €20 and the quiz starts at 10 pm. All are welcome to attend and your support would be greatly appreciated.

‘Till next week, Bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

Weekend

PEOPLE Rallying to support Doireann C & L Plex, Roscommon hosted ‘The Singing Tree’ on Friday last. ‘The Singing Tree’ is a live puppet show aimed at children of all ages. Proceeds from the fun event went to the ‘A Miracle for Doireann’ campaign. In the past week or so the Roscommon Rose of Tralee committee has also confirmed that its chosen charity for 2016 is ‘A Miracle for Doireann.’ Last Saturday Western Gaels GAA Club played Ballaghaderreen in a challenge match in aid of A Miracle for Doireann. All proceeds from the gate went to this very worthy cause. 5-year-old Doireann Martin from Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon was recently diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour. Doireann was diagnosed with DIPG, which has no survival rate. Radiation is

the only treatment available in Ireland. Doireann undertook a course of radiation in December which shrunk the tumour and alleviated her symptoms. She is now is great form and it is hoped that the radiation will keep the tumour stable for a long time. Currently all options are being explored, such as immunotherapy trials which are currently underway in the hope that a cure might somehow be found. Money raised will also help ease the financial burden of the family and make it possible to enjoy the time they have with Doireann and to do fun things she would like to do. A number of other fundraising events have either been held or are being organised. The public are also being invited to make donations. For updates, follow A Miracle for Doireann on Facebook.

FACES and PLACES:

See pages 23 - 25

Pictured at ‘The Singing Tree’ in aid of ‘A Miracle for Doireann’ in C&L Plex, Roscommon on Friday last were Megan Ponzio, Etienne Del Prado, Junior Delarina, Mariana and Raphael Peres. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at ‘The Singing Tree’ in aid of ‘A Miracle for Doireann’ in C&L Plex, Roscommon on Friday last were Anna Marquez and Chris Najar. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at ‘The Singing Tree’ in aid of ‘A Miracle for Doireann’ in C&L Plex, Roscommon on Friday last were Ruth Creeth, Gian Carlo Delarina and Giovanna Delarina. Picture: Andrew Fox

Athlone Springs Hotel gears up to welcome the Blog Squad

Funny man, James Patrice, will be bringing the laughs as he hosts the Blog Squad event in the Athlone Springs on April 24th.

Anyone who loves Snapchat, Instagram and of course social influence bloggers will love this amazing event on Sunday the 24th of April at Athlone Springs Hotel. The team at Athlone Springs Hotel are so excited to welcome big-time Irish bloggers such as Joanne Larby (The Makeup Fairy), the gorgeous Lisa Jordan, Rosie Connolly, Mom Fitness Diary’s Ursula Walsh and the one and only, hilariously funny, James Patrice. The Snapchat star James Patrice will host the event and the ladies will have loads of tips, make-up demos, spring/summer fashion inspiration, health and fitness advice. There will also be a Q&A at the end of the show so they will help you answer any questions you have to get you through the season ahead. The day also includes a delicious afternoon tea and an amazing goodie bag for everyone so it is the perfect girlie day out! Tickets are on sale now for €85 per person and available from www.blogsquad.ie. Limited seating available so snap them up quickly as this is their last show of the year.

James Patrice will be joined by fellow Blog Squad members, Lisa Jordan and Rosie Connolly, on Sunday, April 24th in the Athlone Springs Hotel.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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

Hamrock’s

cinema & leisure complex

minnows

Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday, 2nd April:

Walk The Line The Country Ballroom

TULSK INN Saturday, 2nd April - Live Music with

Sean Brennan Sunday, 3rd April - Front Bar

Paul Watchorn

JJ HARLOWS - Market Square, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626225

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

Friday 1st: A WARRIOR’S TAIL

Week Commencing Fri 1st—Thurs 7th

Movie Times

10 CLOVERFIELD LANE (15A)

17:00; 21:40

A WARRIOR’S TAIL (PG)

12:20 (KMC)

BATMAN v SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE (12A)

15:45; 18:40; 21:00

EDDIE THE EAGLE (12A)

14:20; 19:10; 21:45

HOP (G)

12:30 (KMC)

THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER’S WAR (12A)OPENING MON 4th 14:00; 16:40; 21:30 MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING 2 (12A)

13:35; 16:30; 18:50

NORM OF THE NORTH (G) (14:25 Fri, Sat, Sun ONLY)

12:30 (KMC); 14:25

SING STREET (12A)

14:35; 19:20

THE BOY (15A) (16:40 Fri, Sat, Sun ONLY)

16:40; 21:40

THE DIVERGENT SERIES: ALLEGIANT (12A) (21:30 Fri, Sat, Sun ONLY)

16:55; 21:30

ZOOTROPOLIS (PG)

14:40; 19:20

Open Mic Night – All welcome, sign up at 9pm Saturday 2nd

Mark Black

South Roscommon Singers at Murray’s The next session of South Roscommon Singers Circle is on this Saturday (2nd of April) in Murray’s, Knockcroghery. Some exciting guests ‘from the east’ will be in attendance so it promises to be another great night of singing, storytelling, lies and legend. Don’t miss it – all are welcome and admission is free. Singing will start at approximately 9.30 pm.

Entertainment at JJ’s this weekend Open Mic Night returns this Friday (April 1st) at JJ Harlow’s in Roscommon town. All singers and musicians are welcome. On Saturday night, Mark Black returns to Roscommon’s renowned music venue with his unique and very distinctive style of ‘rootsy blues,’ combining rock, country and Celtic influences into a potent mix. So come on down for what promises to be great night of music complimented by our extensive range of craft beers. On Sunday night, Ciarán, Conor and Gary provide the perfect way to wind down your weekend. Get down to JJ’s this weekend and enjoy live music and a wide drinks selection.

Sunday 3rd

Ciaran, Conor & Gary (CCG) - 6 pm in Middle Bar

See Gabriel – and his two loves – at Arts Centre Lots of laughs assured! Mohill’s Acorn Players formed three years ago and while they may have had humble beginnings, their performances of Jimmy Keary’s three-act comedy ‘The Two Loves of Gabriel Foley’ have exploded into a phenomenally successful production that is in demand from all corners of Ireland. Some may wonder why they keep doing the same play all the time, but so far only nine counties have been covered! There

are 23 more counties out there demanding to see it and now it’s Roscommon’s turn as they pay the arts centre a visit with this production on Friday, 8th April at 8 pm. In this hilarious comedy we meet Gabriel, a middle-aged bachelor farmer, who lives with his elderly mother. He has been unlucky in love many times, much to his mother’s frustration. She thinks she’ll never get rid of him. Then he meets ‘up mar-

ket’ Hazel Myers and joins the posh drama group in the nearby town in order to romance her. He is unaware that Chrissie McCabe – a cheerful country woman, who comes in to help him and his mother — fancies him. By the time Chrissie makes her feelings known to Gabriel, Hazel is already attracted to Gabriel and has plans for his farm! Playwright Jimmy Keary is a native of Rathowen, Co. Westmeath. He has

written five one-act and nineteen three-act plays. His work has been staged all over Ireland and parts of America but without a doubt ‘The Two Loves of Gabriel Foley’ is a particular crowd favourite. From the curtain up to the final bow this piece of theatre will have the audience in stitches! Tickets available now from Roscommon Arts Centre on 09066 25824/ www.roscommonartscentre.ie

* 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 01 April 2016

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

Pictured in Rockford’s on Sunday night last were Hollie McKeon and Laura Beirne. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Rockford’s on Sunday night last were Claire Kelly, Lorna Flynn, Orla Griffin and Marian Daire. Picture: Andrew Fox

A great weekend (despite rain and defeat!)

oscommon may have lost

– but local businesses had an overdue victory at the weekend when in excess of 12,000 GAA fans came to town. The Roscommon/Mayo match was preceded by a successful Easter Parade, which attracted large and appreciative crowds. The weather was diabolical an hour or so before the parade began, but thankfully the skies cleared for the duration of the very enjoyable ‘formalities.’ Even Donald Trump turned up! Heavy showers of rain resumed after the parade as locals and visitors

packed into local pubs, restaurants and hotels. Again, there was good fortune when the worst of the weather subsided as the big match got underway, but by then an already sub-standard pitch was in pretty bad condition. The huge crowd which attended the game led to a great atmosphere in town and local businesses finally got a welcome benefit from Roscommon’s participation in Division One of the National Football League. When we sent photographer Andrew Fox on a short trip into some of the socialising ‘hot spots’ later on Sunday night, revellers were out and

about and in great form – despite Roscommon’s defeat. No wonder people were philosophical about the defeat against one of the country’s leading teams – Roscommon look certain to qualify for the National League semi-finals, which is a stunning achievement for a team that most people felt would be involved in a battle against relegation. This Sunday, the Dubs come to town and it promises to be another bumper weekend in Roscommon town, with local hotels and B&Bs reportedly booked out from earlier in the year. – Paul Healy

Pictured in Rockford’s on Sunday night last were Blaithín Mullen and Sinéad Dooley. Picture: Andrew Fox

Faces & Places

(Right) Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Sunday night last were Kathleen Garvey, Michael Hanley and Anne Garvey.

Photographs: Andrew Fox (Below) Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Sunday night last were Eoin Lawlor, Jacqui Doyle, Marie Dempsey and Tommy Joe Burke. Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Sunday night last were Sheila Conry and James O’Connor.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse on Sunday night last were Bernadette Reid and Tonya Hand.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

Easter Sunday Parade: ROSCOMMON TOWN

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were John Joe, Eabha and Jean Nally. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Karina, Eilish, Michael and Ted Burke, Ciara O’Gara, Mary O’Gara and Mary Regan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Niamh and Gavin Hunt. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Michael, Evelyn and Mike Kilcline. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon Fire Brigade float at Easter Parade in Roscommon town. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Teresa, Dylan and John Finnegan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Bernie McCarrick, Ciara Moran and David Beattie. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Easter Parade in Roscommon town. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Tom Hanlon and Ben Kilroe. Picture: Andrew Fox Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade were Harry, Daniel and Megan Clavin. Picture: Andrew Fox

At the Roscommon Easter Parade. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Easter Parade in Roscommon town. Picture: Andrew Fox

At the Roscommon Easter Parade. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

Easter Sunday Parade: STROKESTOWN

Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade were Fiona McVeigh, Seรกn and Mary Doherty. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade were Adrian, Fintan and Amanda Cuffe. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade were Caitlyn, Abi, Donnacha, Emily, Sarah and Eilish. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade were Freya, Derek, Layla Rose and Fiona Ferrick. Picture: Andrew Fox Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade were Tom, Gary, Clodagh and Joanne Rogers. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade were Ursula and Eamon Burke, Aisling and Caoimhe Casey. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade were Maisie and Rita Sumskiene. Picture: Andrew Fox Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade were Derek, Mary and Niamh. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Strokestown Easter Parade. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

FarmingPeople

Shorthorn Society Beef Shorthorn Sale to be held at Roscommon Mart Saturday, April 16th Sale starts at 12 noon 20 Females 10 Males Also Supplementary Sale of 4 & 5 star Beef Shorthorn cross Commercial breeding heifers All animals pre-inspected, TH Free and Export tested. Catalogue available on website:

www.irishshorthorn.com Enquiries to: 086 0461442

Serving Farmers since 1985

THINKING OF FORESTRY:

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

Colm Freyne BSc (Forestry)

Galway/Roscommon Ph: 087-6606043

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

Tel: 094 9542668 www.westernforestry.com

Castlerea Mart Report 24th of March: 1000 cattle were on offer this week and the higher numbers on offer have been offset by improved demand – especially for lighter stores – with a very strong trade prevailing. Weanling bulls and weanling heifers recorded very strong prices with up to €3.55 a kilo and €3.58 given for the top quality lots. Heifers, dry cows and breeding stock remained a firm trade also with increased customers in attendance. Sample prices – heifers: Lmx 380kgs €1120, Ch 390kgs €1055, Ch 475kgs €1290, Lm 475kgs €1205, Ch 685kgs €1660, Lmx 530kgs €1465. Dry cows: Ch 690kgs €1350, Ch 715kgs €1240, Ch 930kgs €1800, RLim 635kgs €1105, Lim 585kgs €1130. Cows with calves at foot made from €1370 to €2100. Springers made from €1100 to €1670. Calves: Fr bull €115, Hr bull €280, AA hfr €370, Hr bull €405, Ch hfr €470. Weanling bulls: Ch 290kg €975, Sim 290kgs €925, Ch 460kgs €1270, Ch 370kgs €1005, Lm 275kgs €915. Weanling heifers: BBx 280kgs €1005, Lim 275kgs €915, Ch 375kgs €1090, Sim 355kgs €1080, Ch 350kgs €1050. Bullock sale, Monday 21st March: 200 bullocks on offer with bullocks making from €350 to €870 over with an average of €584 over paid. Lighter lots attracted most demand on the day with a good clearance taking place. Sample prices: Ch 455kgs €1245, Lim 400kgs €1185, BBx 530kgs €1325, AA 525kgs €1305, Ch 580kgs €1435, Ch 600kgs €1470, Ch 650kgs €1420.

Castlerea farmer hits out at cuts to National Reserve < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Farmer and aspiring politician Gerry O’Boyle has claimed that he is set to lose €26,000 because of the news that there is unlikely to be a National Reserve fund this year. It emerged last week that the scheme, run by the Department of Agriculture, was set to go into abeyance in 2016. As a result, young farmers and new

entrants to the trade are set to suffer a significant financial loss. O’Boyle is a case in point. He said that he had taken several expensive steps recently to ensure that he qualified for the fund. “I rented 45 acres of land on the Mayo-Roscommon border, near Castlerea. I had paid €2,000 to do a Green Cert in Agriculture; I was starting it

in September,” Mr. O’Boyle said. “We had until April 1 to get our applications in for the National Reserve. I had dotted all the i’s and crossed all the t’s. “I got encouraged to go into farming but, when I had done all I was to do, then the rug gets pulled from under us. It’s a horrid slap in the face. “I would have been getting €26,000 a year.”

Pictured at the launch of the 2016 FBD Young Farmer of the Year on the farm of Jonathan Marry, Slane, Co. Meath were (l to r): Christy Doherty, FBD Insurance, Jonathan Marry, 2015 FBD Young farmer of the Year, Sean Finan, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon, National President Macra na Feirme, and Jer Bergin, Chairman of Irish Farmers Association.

Macra calls for ‘Young Farmer of the Year’ entries Farmers in all enterprise categories are urged to enter the 2016 Roscommon FBD Young Farmer of the Year competition. As well as an overall €3,000 travel bursary for the winner, there are prizes for the top young beef, sheep, dairy, tillage and other (pigs, poultry, horticulture) category farmers. Entrants will compete against other farmers in their enterprise category to be crowned the winner in their prize category and be in the running to be the

2016 FBD Young Farmer of the Year. Macra National President, Seán Finan, said: “If you’re an ambitious young farmer with at least three years’ experience, you should enter and fly the flag for your enterprise.” The 18th round of the competition is now open for entries and boasts prizes for all farm sectors as well as the prestigious top prize of a travel bursary and title of FBD Young Farmer of the Year.

A representative from each enterprise will be chosen from Roscommon and they will benefit from a targeted regional technical day for their sector. There, they will develop their specific skills and compete against their counterparts from other counties. Forms are available from Macra na Feirme national office by phoning 01 4268900, from your Roscommon IFA or Roscommon FBD offices, and for download on macra.ie.

T&Cs - All prices on a cash and carry basis. E&EO. Offers subject to availability. Prices are subject to change without notice. Prices are correct at the time of print. Prices quoted are inclusive of VAT. Images are for illustration purposes only.

ATHLONE 090 643 5300

LONGFORD 043 333 9900

MOUNTBELLEW 090 967 9219

Pictured with the male champion at the Irish Angus Premier sale in Tullamore which sold for €3900 were (L to r) Kevin Diffley, breeder, Carrick-on-Shannon, Joe Moran (Judge) and John Farrell (Irish Angus President).

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

FarmingPeople

Concern raised over beef prices < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Serious concerns have been expressed that the price of beef paid to farmers will plummet this autumn. Prices have been static, at about €4 per kilo, in recent months, but they are set for a marked reduction, it is feared. “I would be concerned about the price of beef in the next year,” Cllr. Laurence Fallon, a former senior IFA official, said. “There is going to be a significantly bigger kill of livestock this year than last year due to the numbers that were retained in previous

years and not exported. “Farmers are currently worried about the price of beef, but looking forward into the autumn, which is the critical time for a lot of farmers, there is great concern as to the price of beef. “If you go on the past, when beef got scarce, it got dear and, when beef got plentiful, it fell. “That is an issue that I would say would be of major concern to Co. Roscommon.” Beef prices paid to farmers have always been volatile. The problem, Cllr. Fallon said, would be partly rectified if farmers knew for

certain what price they could expect to receive for their produce. “What is happening with beef and sheep is that processors and supermarkets will pay whatever they could get beef at, irrespective of whether it is making a profit or not,” he said. “There is absolutely no long-term planning in it. “You should be able to agree with a processor that, if you produce x quality and x numbers of animals, you would expect to get a price. “Until that happens, it is going to be very difficult to have a long-term viable beef industry.”

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

BULLOCK SALE THURSDAY WEEKLY:

Cllr. Laurence Fallon,

Roscommon Mart Report Tuesday, March 29th: There was a very big entry of excellent quality stock on offer at the sale of weanlings held last Tuesday. There was a good attendance of customers actively bidding for stock resulting in a high clearance of lots. Prices for heifers ranged from €1.97 per kilo up to €3.47 per kilo. Prices for bulls ranged from €1.60 per kilo up to €3.39 per kilo. Springing cows made from €1300 to €1575. Cows with calves at foot made up to €1900. Usual sale for weanlings and suckler cows will be held next Tuesday

BOVA AI Technician Covering: Castlerea, Roscommon and surrounding areas Contact Christopher Dineen on

086 4100508

(April 5th) at 5 pm. Weanling heifers made from €335 to €855 over. Sample prices: Char X 455 kgs €1310, Lim X 495 kgs €1275, Char X 405kgs €1170, Lim X 370 kgs €1145, 3 Lm X 390 kgs €1140, BB X 345kgs €1055, SI 410kgs €900, BBX 385kgs €950, Char X 330kgs €1000, Char X 320kgs €950, Char X 315 kgs €895, Lm X 310kgs €895. Weanling bulls made from €255 to €755 over. Sample prices: Char X 485 kgs €1240, 2 Char X 415 kgs €1170, Lim X 540 kgs €1260, BB X 460 kgs €1200, 2

Char X 415 kgs €1130, Char X 425 kgs €1090, Char X 365kgs €1070, Lm X 385kgs €1040, BB X 435kgs €1020, Char X 400kgs €1005, Lm X 410kgs €1000, Lm X 370kgs €1000, Char X 335 kgs €960, Lm X 345 kgs €955, BB X 380kgs €955, Lm X 340kgs €950. Sheep sale, Wednesday, March 30th: There were smaller numbers on offer this week. There was a similar trade for hoggets with a top price of €143. There were a small number of spring lambs on offer with lots fetching up to €128. There

was a good trade for cast ewes with a full clearance of lots. There were better numbers of ewes with lambs present for sale. Sheep sales continue weekly on Wednesdays at 11 am. Yard opens at 8.30 am with a sheep scanning service between 9 am and 10 am. Sample prices – spring lambs: 45 kgs €128. Ewe hoggets: 53.6kgs €135, 53.5kgs €135. Cast Ewes made from €92 to €152.50 per lot. Ewes with twin lambs at foot made up to €260 per unit. Ewes with single lambs at foot made up to €200.

ATHENRY SALE 78 MALES & 2 FEMALES ON OFFER THURSDAY 14TH APRIL

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Show 9am / Sale 1pm All males vet inspected, fertility tested and sold under fertility insurance scheme All herds participating in CHeCS accredited Johnes herd testing programme

FINANCE AVAILABLE TO ROI PURCHASERS OF MALES

(PHONE LIMOUSIN OFFICE FOR APPLICATION)

FORTHCOMING SALES: THURSDAY 28TH APRIL AT 7 P.M.

THE MOYSIDE/CROGHAN SHORTHORN BREEDERS CLUB WILL HOLD A SALE OF PEDIGREE AND NON PEDIGREE SHORTHORN CATTLE. SATURDAY 14TH MAY:

HORSE SALE FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

(Serving Farmers for over 56 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

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

Special Sale of Breeding Heifers Tomorrow Friday April 1st – 11 a.m. Also Bullocks & Dry Cows --------------ORGANIC SALE

Cattle & Sheep This Saturday April 2nd – 12 Noon Entries to Iofga 0906433680 or Organic Trust 018530271 -------------------

Weanlings & Suckler Cows Tuesday next April 5th at 5 p.m. -----------------------

Mid Spring Special Sale of Bullocks Friday, April 8th at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. this Thursday, March 31st Also Heifers & Dry Cows -----------------Friday, April 15th at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, 5th April, Wednesday, 6th April & Thursday, 7th April Also Bullocks & Dry Cows -----------------Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday – 11.am. --------

Show & Sale of Lambs Wednesday, April 27th – 11 a.m. (in conjunction with Roscommon Lamb Festival) Prizes in each class –1st €100, 2nd €50 Best Pen of Factory Lambs (minimum of 5 lambs) Best Pen of Butchers Lambs (minimum of 5 lambs) Sheep Breed Societies Exhibition, Trade stand Special Class Best Ewe with 2 Lambs at foot The Oliver Burke Memorial Sculpture will be awarded to the winner ---------------------

Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

Daily collection

ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. 3 RINGS IN OPERATION.

Mid Spring Special Sale of Heifers

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Lowest price guaranteed

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS

Sheep Scanning service Each Wednesday 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Enquiries 090 6626352

For enquiries call: 00 353 (0) 258 5036

w w w. i r i s h l i m o u s i n . c o m

Live streaming of sales from Ring 1 see link on our facebook or website

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Email roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website www.roscommonmart.ie

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

PropertyPeople

●

PROPERTY SALES

●

LETTINGS ● VALUATIONS

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

NEW TO THE MARKET CHURCH STREET, GLENAMADDY, CO. GALWAY

FINAL OFFERS BY FRIDAY 22ND APRIL c.16 acres Prime Lands

Killiaghan & Gort, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon

Ballymacurley, Ballinaheglish, Co. Roscommon.

Prime residence on the books at Connaughton’s • Prime Residential/Commercial Town Centre Property • Luxury four bedroom residence • Commercial ground floor unit adjoining c.400 sq.ft • Stands on large site c. 0.3 acres with garage • Viewing highly recommended For further details and viewing contact the office on 090-6663700

• Prime lands comprising c.16 acres in two lots • Located just off Roscommon/ Athlone Road • Historic 17th Century House standing thereon • Huge potential due to size and location

ALL OFFERS INVITED TO SELL FINAL OFFERS BY 12pm Friday 22nd April 2016 Joint Agent: Sean Naughton, Auctioneer Tel. 090-6625080

THINKING OF SELLING? If you are thinking of selling, call us today for a FREE VALUATION

NO SALE NO FEE CALL 090-6663700 TODAY

SALES BY MORAN & CO

Lisnagavragh, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon.

Connaughton Auctioneers are offering new to the market a prime three-bedroomed residence in excellent condition with huge potential to convert the attic area. This property stands on approximately a half an acre of land located one mile from Ballinaheglish village and conven-

ient to Roscommon, Castlerea and Strokestown. To the rear of the residence are outbuildings with an area of approximately 2,500 square feet and independent access. With a price region of €125,000, viewing comes highly recommend-

Cathal O’Brien seeks property urgently Following a highly successful period with excellent results achieved and having many disappointed underbidders on our books, Cathal O’Brien Auctioneer is urgently seeking property in all areas for immediate sale to awaiting cash buyers. With market confidence at an all-time high now is the time to sell. Terms are no sale no fee with no registration costs, with inclusion on all web sites including Daft.ie. Cathal said earlier this week that he has a number of UK based clients and investors on his books especially seeking properties at present throughout the Roscommon area, so for a free market appraisal or listing contact Cathal today in confidence. We get Results! Call Cathal O´Brien MIPAV Auctioneer, Ballintubber, Co. Roscommon on 087-2613617 or 094 9655313, e-mail info@cathalobrien.ie, or log onto www.cathalobrien.ie or Daft.ie.

Valuable Holding of Lands Total Area c. 6.17 hectares (15.25 acres) The lands are all top quality farm lands laid out in one division and are well fenced. They have good road frontage and offer the opportunity to build a house subject to planning permission. The lands have a great location on the main road between Four Roads and Curraghboy and are c. 15 mins. drive from Athlone and Roscommon. This sale offers a rare opportunity for anyone seeking a small holding or for local farmers to acquire additional lands. Inspection is highly recommended. Full details from the auctioneers.

Auctioneers & Chartered Surveyors Main Street, Ballygar. Tel. 090 6624531 / 087 2786664.

PSRA No.001472

ed. For further details and viewing, contact the office on 090-6663700. (Viewings at evenings or weekends can be arranged for any property with Connaughton Auctioneers). Visit our website www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie to view all properties on our books. LIC. NO. 001127.

cathal o’brien

estate agent MIPAV

the housesold name CLEABOY, BALLINTUBBER, CO. ROSCOMMON MOB. 087 261 3617 – TEL. 094 96 55313 www.cathalobrien.ie • Email: info@cathalobrien.ie

NEW TO THE MARKET – FOR SALE SUPERIOR FARM CONTAINING

C. 58.5 ACRES AT CARROWMONEY, KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON Top quality dual purpose agricultural lands which would suit any type of farming enterprise, renowned lands in the locality. The lands are set out in one division with extensive road frontage and are located in a good farming district off the main Roscommon to Athlone route convenient to Knockcroghery. Overall one of the finest farms to come on the market in this area for some time and we now invite immediate viewings and offers. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WANTED 300 ACRES PLUS OF LANDS TO SUIT FORESTRY, TOP PRICES PAID UP TO €4,500 PER ACRE! Large Investor seeking Lands in all areas suitable for planting. Lots of 20 acres or over – no maximum. Immediate decision with Top Prices being paid for suitable lands to fill this large order. Call us today for more information. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WANTED GROWING PLANTATIONS Maturing forestry especially Sitka Spruce all areas, Lots of 20 acres plus considered aged 10 years or older Non premium 20 year old plus plantations particularly sought after, Immediate decision and prompt payment. Replies in confidence to the auctioneer.

Castlecoote, Roscommon

Spacious home at Castlecoote with Hughes & Co At Castlecoote, Roscommon, Hughes & Company have on offer a large six-bedroomed dormer bungalow on a one-acre site. This property is finished to a high standard and has the benefit of a large garage and workshop to the rear with a separate entrance. Only a short distance from the picturesque village of Castlecoote and convenient to shops, Church and all local amenities, this accommodation consists of a sitting room, kitchen cum dining room, conservatory, six bedrooms and a bathroom. For further details or to arrange an appointment to view please contact the office on 090 6627003 or email phughes2@eircom.net.

TREMANE, ROSCOMMON

LICENCE 002905

Auctioneer/Valuer/Letting Agent www.lorettadowdpropertylettings.com

FOR SALE Spacious 2 Bedroom Apartment located at

NO.9 GARDEN HOUSE, ROSCOMMON TOWN Ideal investment opportunity - this spacious apartment is located within walking distance of Town centre and all amenities. Immediate viewings invited! Price on Application

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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

LANDS TO LET – New to the Market For letting at Ballinagard Road, Roscommon. Circa 10 acres, sheep fenced with a cattle pen and crush. ------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET

For letting at The Grove, Kilteevan. Circa 6 acres. ------------------------------------------------------------------

16th Annual Machinery Auction To be held at Emoe on Friday 27th May 2016 at 6.00 p.m. sharp Entries are now been taken. Please contact the Office on 090 6627003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom.net

Quality land and property on offer at Hughes & Co New to the market with Hughes & Co this week is ten acres of land for letting at Ballinagard Road, Roscommon. They also have on offer at Carrowmoney, Rahara, Co. Roscommon approximately 60 acres of top quality agricultural land with extensive road frontage. This must be of interest to local farmers who would like to increase their holdings. There is some site potential subject to planning permission being granted. At Porteen, Dysart, Hughes & Company are

offering for sale an old cottage in need of total modernisation. The residence stands on approximately 20 acres, which can be sold in a number of different lots. The company are accepting offers in excess of €100,000 for this farm. At The Spinney, Abbeytown, Co. Roscommon, Hughes & Company have for sale a large five- bedroomed detached residence. The property is currently rented and generating an income of €9,000 per annum. Offers in excess of €220,000.

Also on offer this week with Hughes & Co. at Clooneigh, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon is a threebedroomed bungalow on approximately 57 acres of land. The land can be sold in a number of different lots. They are considering offers in excess of €200,000 for the entire property. Sales by Pat Hughes & Co. Ltd., Auctioneer & Valuer, Abbey Street, Co. Roscommon. Call: 090 6627003, Fax: 090 6626296 or email: phughes2@eircom.net.

9.7 acres of land with facilities with Moran & Co Moran & Co. in Ballygar are this week offering new to market approximately 9.7 acres of land with a two-bay slatted shed off the Ballyforan to Ballygar road. The site is laid out in one division and offers an excellent opportunity to acquire additional lands or to purchase a property. Viewing comes highly recommended. Also on offer at Lisnagavragh, Four Roads is a

valuable holding of lands of approximately 15.25 acres. The lands are top quality farm lands laid out in one division and are well fenced. They enjoy an excellent location and offer the opportunity to build a house, subject to planning permission. The lands are located on the main road between Four Roads and Curraghboy and are approximately 15 minutes’ drive from Athlone and Roscom-

Pat Hughes & Co. have confirmed that their 16th Annual Machinery Auction will be held on Friday, 27th May at 6 pm at their site at Emoe, Co. Roscommon. Entries are now being accepted. Please contact the office on 090 6627003 or email phughes2@eircom.net if you would like to have your items entered. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment as only a certain amount of lots can be accepted.

LAVALLYROE, BALLYHAUNIS 35.5 acres of good quality LAND FOR SALE Also Hayshed & Yard being sold with the land

BACK E ON TH ET K R A M

Offers now being accepted For further information, please call the office

Log onto www.johnrocheauctioneer.com for up to date listings of local properties for sale and lease

NEW TO THE MARKET C. 10.9 ACRES OF LANDS LOCATED AT

FOXWOOD MANOR, WARREN OR DRUM, BESIDE BOYLE TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON. AS PER THE INSTRUCTIONS OF MESSERS BAKER TILLY RYAN GLENNON RECEIVERS. Price Guide: €50,000 ono to sell. A prime parcel of lands being the balance of lands comprised in folios RN31917F located at the “Foxwood Manor” housing development which hold potential due location. Standing on the said lands are 5 number houses completed only to wall plate level. The said property is selling as it stands and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET A COMPACT PARCEL OF LANDS CONTAINING C. 20 ACRES WITH THE BENEFIT OF A SUBSTANTIAL FARMYARD AND A DERELICT ONE STOREY RESIDENCE STANDING THEREON LOCATED AT BALLYGLASS SOUTH,

BALLYMOE, CO. GALWAY.

9.7 acres of land with a two-bay slatted shed off the Ballyforan to Ballygar road.

mon. This sale offers a rare opportunity for anyone seeking a small holding or for local farmers to

Hughes & Co Annual Machinery Auction

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

acquire additional lands. Inspection is highly recommended. Full details from the

auctioneer, David Moran, MSCSI MRICS, Moran & Co., Ballygar. Tel. 090 6624531.

‘Ballinagard House’ and lands on the books of Earley’s John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley is this week offering to the market the historic Ballinagard House (in need of restoration) located at Ballinagard, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. John spoke to the Roscommon People earlier this week: “This historic property stands on approximately 15 acres of excellent quality land with the benefit of out offices, stables and a coach house. “The grounds incorporate mature trees, an orchard with ornate steel railing as well as natural hedging. Ballinagard House offers approximately 3,500 square feet and boasts a fine four-column Doric style porch to the front façade. This is a charming house with huge potential and the ren-

ovation of it would be a most rewarding project due location and setting.” For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

John Earley’s Property of the Week John Earley of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering new to the market a quality four-bedroomed twostorey residence of approximately 2,070 square feet currently at Carrownalassan, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as “a highly attractive and spacious four-bedroomed detached residence which is presently at shell finish throughout and is situated in a most attractive residential location in the Fourmilehouse area. The property is ideally presented to allow the purchaser to finish to their own taste and specification. The auctioneer highly recommends viewing and invites all offers after €100,000 to sell.” For further details or to arrange a view-

Prime farmlands on which stands a comprehensive farmyard incorporating a 5 bay back to back dry stock shed with central passage way, and a 5 bay lean tos off, also a range of useful storage sheds and a cattle crush and pen. Also standing on the said lands is a derelict on storey residence. The said lands are located in a good farming district close to Kilcroan National School, just off the main Ballymoe/Glenamaddy road c. 6 km from Ballymoe Village and c. 6 km from Glenamaddy town. The said lands must be of interest to local farmers and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. LEGAL: SINEAD NEILAN, MESSERS PATRICK J NEILAN & CO, ROSCOMMON. TEL. 090 66 26245. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET A PRIMELY LOCATED 3 B/R DETACHED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF C. 1,600 SQ.FT STANDING ON C. 14.5 ACRES OF DUAL PURPOSE AGRICULTURAL LANDS LOCATED AT

AGHAGOWER, CASTLECOOTE, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON.

A highly attractive 3 B/R bungalow residence located in a much sought after residential location close to the award winning village of Castlecoote and adjacent to the Fuerty GAA grounds. The said property can be sold in the following lots should market interest dictate. Lot 1: The entire. Lot 2: 3 B/R residence standing on c. 1 acre. Lot 3: C. 13.5 acres of lands with the benefit of farm buildings standing thereon. Overall, this is a quality property to come available in a select location and the auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and offers to sell. BER: D1. LEGAL: SEAN MAHON, MESSERS MAHON SWEENEY & CO, ROSCOMMON. TEL. 090 66 27350. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------

LANDS TO LET ROSCOMMON AREA

ing, contact John Earley FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 6626579 or email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

We have a large portfolio of lands to let to include: • c. 121 acres of prime roadside lands located at Clooneenbaun & Emlaghmore, Donamon from now until the 1st November 2016. • c. 52 acres located at Lisgobbin & Cloonerk, Kilroosky with the benefit of a 2 bay slatted shed and entitlements. 5 year term. Terms and conditions negotiable. • c. 16 acres located at Gailey, Knockcroghery. 5 year term. Terms and conditions negotiable. • c. 29.7 acres located at Carrowphaddeen, Lecarrow from now until the 1st April 2017. Sheep only for the winter months. • c. 17 acres located at Carrowkeel, Donamon from now until the 1st December 2016. For further details contact the office.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 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 1st to Monday 4th April 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

ACCOUNTS

BOUNCING CASTLES

Dental Design Studio

NEED HELP IN COMPLETING YOUR TAX RETURNS

BALLYGAR Bouncing Castles

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

Super Slides – Combi Units – Sumo Suits – Activity Trailers (all weather) v– Marquee Hire - New Obstacle Courses

• 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

JUST ARRIVED Bouncing Castle Disco Dome

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

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

Phone No: (087) 4136355

• Keenest rates • FULLY INSURED

TEL.: (087) 2315448 or (090) 6624797

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

Tel: 087 2798704

Find us on facebook BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT FOR COMMUNIONS/CONFIRMATIONS

CAREERS CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

Grace O’Reilly B.Sc. Psych., B.Comm., H.Dip. in Ed., MBPS & PSI Registered Occupational Psychometrician Assistance with: • Interview Preparation • CAO & UCAS Course Application • Subject & Course Choice • Study Skills / Exam Preparation

CONTACT: Abbeyside House, Abbey Street, Roscommon. Tel . 090-6630760. Email: abbeysidehouse@ eircom.net Facebook: www.facebook. com/careersgraceoreilly Opening Hours: 9 am - 5.30 pm, Mon-Fri.

CARAVAN FOR SALE CARAVAN FOR SALE: 2007 Omega 544 4 Berth. Caravan ready to go. Extras include remote control forward and reverse, left and right. Full awning and ground sheet. €11,750. Tel: 086 4059131. (no texts)

CHIMNEY CLEANING CHIMNEY CLEANING POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

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

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

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

(090) 66 26023 086 8225575

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

Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Phone: (086) 8433433

Tuition in Car Car available for test

EDT LESSONS AVAILABLE

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor

Contact: Noel Burke Ballintubber

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

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

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

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

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2.30PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time Please call us on 090-6634633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

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 01 April 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

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: Angus and Hereford suck calves. Bull and heifers. Call Mark 086 1996367. < PLOTS OF TURF TO LET: Cloonbard, Castlerea. Top quality turf, Bord na Mona approved. Tel: 086 7313879. < WANTED: Used cattle slats. Tel: 087 2533101. < FOR SALE: Good quality round bales of hay. Can deliver, Roscommon town area. Call Padraig on 087 2965494. < FOR SALE: 25 round bales of silage. €16 per bale. Tel: 086 8189306.

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.

GARDENING

HOLISTIC

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

SEAMUS HUNT

• Woodchipping • Log Splitting • Tree Surgery • Hedge Cutting

Bernard Conroy Timber Clearance Ltd Tel: 087 2533101 or 090 66 22328 Over 30 years in business

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. FOR SALE: 3 seater couch and 2 armchairs, 2 seater leather couch, 2 double beds, china cabinet and display cabinet, table and chairs. No reasonable offer refused. Tel: 087 4614776.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gannon Environmental Services Ltd., Creggs

● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

Tel: 087 2721757 www.aobtherapies.com www.facebook.com/ AOBTherapies Vouchers available on-line

PLANNINGS

< LOST: Rose Gold Mi Mondea chain with silver and gold coin on Sunday night, 27th March in Roscommon town. It is of sentimental value. Reward offered if anyone has seen it. Please contact 086 8407997 with any information.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Bernadette Fallon, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for change of use of existing offices/storage space granted planning permission under P&D Ref 03/531 to granny flat at Cloonbrackna, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architectural & Design Services Ltd., Fallon Avenue, Roscommon Phone 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS NAME OF APPLICANT: Stephen O’Brien. LOCATION: Loughglinn Demesne Td., Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon. REFERENCE NUMBER OF THE APPLICATION: 15/143 The development applied for consisted of: To construct a dormer dwelling house with domestic garage, the installation of a septic tank, sewerage treatment unit and percolation area along with connections to services and all other associated site works.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

KATHLEEN KELLY M.I.R.I.L.

18 years experience in treating babies to adults

• Reflexology • Reiki • Indian Head and Shoulder Massage • Gift Vouchers Available • Evening appointments available

Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon

Can we help you? Call us today to enquire

Phone: (086) 3614230

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

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

Located at Henry Street

PLANNINGS

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.

Members of IBKCA

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

MORRIS LOHAN Consulting Engineers Castle Street, Roscommon Phone: 090 66 27950

www.morrislohan.ie

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

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 on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within a 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.

• PLANNING APPLICATIONS • ASSIGNED DESIGN & CERTIFIER ‘New Building Regs’ • BER RATINGS ‘Domestic & Commercial’ • STRUCTURAL & CONDITION SURVEYS • FIRE DESIGN CERTIFICATES

KENNELS

HAPPY TAILS BOARDING KENNELS

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169

LOST

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission on behalf of Quinby Holdings Ltd for retention of an entrance onto a public road to serve afforested lands at Culliagh Lower, Scramoge, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Ph: (087) 2222874, seamusmurray60@gmail. com The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Falledeen, Ballinlough I intend to apply to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Michael Murphy for planning permission to construct a dwelling house and garage and connection to public sewer together with all ancillary site works and services at the above address. Signed: Seamus Owens BSc.Con.Mgt, Planning & Engineering Consultants, Springdale, Convent Road, Claremorris, Co. Mayo T: 087 2038618 E: sowensassociates@ gmail.com This application may be inspected or purchased for the prescribed fee at the offices of the Planning Authority, Roscommon County Council, Aras An Chontae, Roscommon during normal opening hours. Submissions or observations in relation to the application may be made to the planning authority in writing on payment of €20 within 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the application by the authority.

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans in relation to this application have been furnished to the planning authority and 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. A submission or observation in relation to the further information/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 the receipt of the newspaper notice and 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: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd., Engineers & Architects, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph: (090) 66 34421 Fax: (090) 66 34423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, H&B Developments intend to apply for permission for retention of change of use from light industrial warehousing from that previously granted under PD01/98, to retail, at: Team PR Reilly, Unit B3, Ballypheasan Td., Golf Links Road, Roscommon. Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd., Engineers & Architects, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph: (090) 66 34421 Fax: (090) 66 34423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

Classifieds PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Jerh O’Connor and Ronan McSharry, intend to apply for Permission for change of house types and associated domestic garages along with changes to site layout previously granted under PD/11/294 including connections to all services and all other associated site works at: Carrownabrickna Td., Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd., Engineers & Architects, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph: (090) 66 34421 Fax: (090) 66 34423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, H&B Developments intend to apply for permission for retention of change of use from light industrial warehousing from that previously granted under PD01/98, to retail, at: Super Savers, Unit B5, Ballypheasan Td., Golf Links Road, Roscommon. Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd., Engineers & Architects, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph: (090) 66 34421 Fax: (090) 66 34423 Email: info@collinsboydeng.com The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Mullaghnashee Townland, Fairymount, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. I intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to construct slatted livestock unit and separate farmyard manure store together with all ancillary site works and services including concrete slab, all in accordance with documents lodged at the above address. Signed: Francis Brennan. 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 at Roscommon County Council, Áras An Chontae, Roscommon. Opening hours Monday to Friday 9.30am to 4.30pm, offices closed for lunch between 1pm and 2pm. 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, 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.

To advertise, telephone 090 66 34633 or email advertising@roscommonpeople.ie PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/FOR < TO LET: 2 bed apartment in Athleague village. Fully furnished. Tel: 087 7541730.

PHOTOGRAPHER AVAILABLE FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER AVAILABLE FOR - Weddings - Christenings - First Holy Communions - Confirmations

Phone: 089 9530397 for an appointment

PAINTING & DECORATING

PAT TREACY • Painting and Decorating • Commercial & Domestic • Spray Painting • Wallpapering • Power Washing

Tel: (086) 8077313 PAINTER & DECORATOR

REFLEXOLOGY

MARINA FUREY (MNRRI) African & Classical Reflexology/ Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Eczema • Migraine • Back Problems • Gynaecological Disorders • Respiratory Disorders • Blood Pressure • Insomnia • Stress • Exam Stress • Bowel Disorders • Joint/Muscle Problems • Thyroid Imbalance • Colic • Pain Relief • Emotional Disorders - Hand Reflexology - Foot Reflexology - Infant/Child Reflexology Mobile Service Available Marina Furey B. Sc. (Hons)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

SEPTIC TANKS

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

Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

Telephone Alan on: (090) 6661635 or Mobile: (087) 2683079

SITUATIONS VACANT

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

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

< RELIABLE PERSON REQUIRED in the Strokestown area to mind two children; one pre-school and one school going. If interested, please call 086 2441982.

SITUATIONS WANTED < CARER AVAILALBE: Full FETAC Level 5. Available for day or night work/duty. Roscommon area. Please reply to Box No: 873 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < YOUNG WOMAN AVAILABLE for cleaning in Roscommon area. Own car. Tel: 086 3657479.

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.

SPECIAL NOTICES < A SEVENTH SON HEALER will attend in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon on this Friday 1st April, 12 noon to 4.30 p.m. Cures for depression, headaches, blood pressure, vertigo, ear noise, acne, migrane, sinus, chest asthma, blushing, lack of confidence, rheumatisim, arthritis, psoriasis, eczema, all skin rashes, fatigue, panic attacks, nerves, stress, anxiety, back pain, shingles etc. No Appointment needed, call on day in private. Any enquiries to 049 4335497 or mobile 086 1921955.

TAI CHI CLASSES < BEGINNER TAOIST TAI CHI CLASSES will commence with a free Introductory Class on Monday 4th April from 7pm-8:15pm at the Convent Primary School, Carrick Road, Boyle. Contact Trish on 087 746 7282 for more information. Everyone welcome. BEGINNER TAOIST TAI CHI CLASSES will also commence with a free Introductory Class on Wednesday 6th April from 10:30am -12:30pm at the Fourmilehouse Community Centre, Kilbride. Contact 089 448 2769 for more information. Everyone welcome.

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

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

(086) 2714879

ATHLEAGUE CABS 1-8 Seats Wheelchair Accessible

PADDY PURCELL 087-3186590

HUGH KILDUFF Hackney Service (086) 2479829

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

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. < 2ND YEAR STUDENT REQUIRES help with homework on Saturdays. Tel: 087 4329383. < MATHS GRINDS: Oneto-one basis. All levels. Roscommon town. Tel: 086 6058108. < CASTLEREA: Oral and exam preparation in Irish, French and German. Higher and Ordinary Level. Individual or group. Tel: 087 3515985.

TUITION TURF, FIREWOOD AND FUEL < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned timber only €2 per bag, buy 20 bags get 2 free • Bags of top quality black turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • 8 x 4 trailer load of turf only €120 delivered • 10 x 6 box load of timber only €180 delivered • 1 Bags of BNM briquettes only €2.50 delivered • Tonne bags of turf and firewood only €35 delivered. • ALSO PACKAGE DEAL: 1 bale of briquettes, 1 bag of logs, 3 bags of turf delivered only €10. Price cannot be beaten. Contact Tom: 086 2628439. WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch, Sycamore and Whitethorn. Good price paid. We are safety certified and insured. Phone: 086 2437376. < FOR SALE: 40kg bag of smokeless coal, only €15 per bag, delivered. Contact Tony on 086 0703946. < DRY LOOSE TURF AVAILABLE in truck lorry loads. Full and half loads. Call: 087 1413238.

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

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

LOFT LADDERS Aluminium

Supplied & Fitted From

0 ONLY €15 The company that can do all them small jobs 094 96 31880 087 9100477 www.oddjobsolutions.ie SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAINS JETTED & CLEANED Waste Collection Permit No: NWCPO-12-11038-01

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

USEFUL SERVICES CONTINUED ON PAGE 34

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

AtYourService BLINDS

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

WINDOWS/DOORS

CLEANING SHOWROOM:

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

- 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 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSULATION

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS

Contact: Gerry Monaghan

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

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

info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie WINDOW/ DOORS

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 FARMING

ELITE CHIMNEY REPAIRS • Lining • Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

CATHAL DOOLEY 087 6579064

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

TARMACADAM

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

091 768 768

• Chimney Repairs • Removal of cracked flues and relining • Firebacks replaced • Free Insurance Quotations • Fully Insured

Auto Cleanse Car Valeting is a modern, professional service which specialises in quick and mobile care for your car, van and jeep Auto Cleanse comes to you! Whether it be at work or to your home We are a mobile service.

Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness

Fergal 086 1016899

PIO TULLY

Tel Niall on 085 7577317

TARMACADAM

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

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

www.autocleanse ireland.webs.com

Gerry Monaghan

fergalkelly@live.com

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

MOBILE VALETING SERVICES

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

Contact us for further information Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon T: (090) 64 93386 M: (086) 8207242 E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net

CARPENTRY

Gary Jameson 2nd Fix Carpentry Munsboro, Roscommon • Fitted Kitchens & bedroom units • Doors, Timber Floors • Stairs • Attic Conversions and all internal woodwork

(086) 0708833 GLASS WORKS

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

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

HOME MAINTENANCE

ROSCOMMON, WEST of IRELAND and BEYOND!!

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892 WANTED

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

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

CONTACT: 087 3885054

TREKKING ADVENTURES

WANTED CARAVANS

Venture2Adventures.com

ANY CONDITION, ANY SIZE

Take the trek of a lifetime

CONTACT:

085 8203209

UPCOMING TREKS: 2nd August 2016 - Mt Kilimanjaro 12th August 2016 - Mt Kenya 8th September 2016 - Ben Nevis 11th September 2016 - Mt Snowdon 8th October 2016 - Everest Basecamp

Treks and expeditions are packages and guided

For information, contact Graham on 087 6886101 Web: www.venture2adventures.com

VETERINARY SUPPLIES & SERVICES

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

SERVICES AVAILABLE:

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

PLEASE RING TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT Member of

GROUP

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

AtYourService TV

• SAORVIEW • FREEVIEW • Satellites • Aerials • Repairs • Installations • Upgrades • Relocations • Multi-room • Free to Air • Retuning • Home Moves • Free UK Channels • No Monthly Bills

Appointments

FamilyNotices

BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES ROSCOMMON The Brothers of Charity Services Roscommon employ in excess of 400 employees providing services to adults and children with an intellectual disability and on the autistic spectrum in County Roscommon. Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the following position:

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES FANNON Bridie

SHANNON Philomena

Cloontymullen, Kilteevan, Roscommon Who died on 3rd April 2015

The Spinney, Abbeytown, Roscommon Who died on 4th April 2015

Bridie’s daughters Anne, Theresa, Patricia, Sheila, son Francis, sister Anna, sons-in-law, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, nieces, nephews and exptended family, would like to take this opportunity to convey our sincere and heartfelt thanks to all those who sympathised with us on our bereavement. Sincere thanks to all who called to the house, telephoned, sent Mass Cards, letters of sympathy and attended the Wake, Funeral Mass and Burial. To all our neighbours and friends who helped with traffic management, farm work, provided and served food and refreshments, we are very grateful. To all the gravediggers who provided Bridie’s final resting place, thank you. We wish to extend our deepest appreciation to all the staff at the Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon for the excellent care and warmth shown to Bridie during her time there. We particularly want to thank the staff on St. Catherine’s Ward for the support and kindness shown to us during our mother’s final days. Thanks also to the wonderful home carers who helped our mother during her later years. A special thanks to Fr. Sean Beirne and Fr. John Cullen who celebrated the beautiful Funeral Mass and also the choir for their lovely hymns. We would like to thank Pat Smyth, of Smyth’s Funeral Directors for the courteous and professional service. Many thanks to the owners and staff of Paddy Finn’s, Kilteevan who provided catering after the Funeral. As it would be impossible to thank everyone personally, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere gratitude and appreciation. Anniversary Mass on Friday 1st April at 8pm in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan.

On the First Anniversary of the death of Philomena Shannon (nee Prior), her husband Tony, sons Anthony and Paul, sister Marie, extended family and relatives, would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all those who helped and supported them on their recent sad loss. Sincere thanks to all those who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial, to those who called to the house, sent Mass Cards, letters of sympathy and Hospice donations. A special word of thanks to Phil’s kind friends, neighbours and colleagues, who helped and supported the family during the difficult time. Thanks to the ladies who prepared and bought refreshments. Thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff of the Galway Clinic, for the care and kindness provided to Philomena during her illness. A special word of thanks to Fr. E. McLoughlin PP., Monsignor C. Travers, Fr. I. Kuzmicki and Fr. J. McDonagh for their contribution to the beautiful ceremony. Thank you to the choir, the servers and all those who participated and enhanced the Funeral Mass. Special thanks to Sr. Lena for all her kindness. Thank you to Pat Smyth, Undertaker for the professional and dignified manner in which he carried out the Funeral arrangements. Sincere thanks to the Gardai at Roscommon Garda Station for their traffic management as the Funeral proceeded to the graveyard. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday 2nd April at 8pm.

HEAD OF HUMAN RESOURCES Permanent, Pensionable and Full-Time

MAL HEVEHAN Telephone: 086 8100292 TARMACADAM

Donamon

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

Contact Damian at (087) 9962361

USEFUL SERVICES

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

USEFUL SERVICES

(Grade VII €47,015 - €61,417) Location - Roscommon Town For further information and application pack, please refer to our website at www.brothersofcharity.ie/roscommon or irishjobs.ie or contact the Human Resources Department on 090 66 28511 or email hr@roscommon.brothersofcharity.ie Closing Date: 1.00pm on Thursday 14th April 2016 The Brothers of Charity Services Roscommon is an equal opportunities employer

CHILDCARE PRACTITIONER REQUIRED Level 7/8 Full-Time/Part-Time Position Experience working in a busy Creche Current First Aid training Certificate Experience working with all age groups Maintain accurate records Pre-School Reg 2006

Please send CV and Cover Letter to: Box No 876, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon We are an equal opportunities employer

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

Contact: 087 6718564 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND DECORATING CONTRACTOR

– For all your decorating needs.

Call John 086 4679798

HEALY’S General & Farm Labour • Lawns • Gardens • Powerwashing • Firewood & Log Splitting • Turf saved and brought home NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

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. < 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. < HANDYMAN AVAILABLE – to lay wooden floors, painting and decorating. Grass trimming and power washing. Tel: 087 2213637.

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

TELESALES EXECUTIVE Our Company has seen significant growth over the last number of years. There is considerable potential to grow our current market share in Ireland with both new and existing customer base. The Company plans to expand its Telesales Team to develop new business and support ongoing customer requirements. The successful applicant will be self-driven, have a confident personality and possess excellent communication skills. While specific experience of working in Telesales is not essential a background in sales would be an advantage. An attractive package will be offered to the successful candidate.

To apply email your CV to: cvapplications2016@gmail.com or phone 041-9843588 During office hours only.

LEGAL SECRETARY REQUIRED PART-TIME POSITION Roscommon Town. Experience essential.

Please reply to Box No 875, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

FURTHER APPOINTMENT ADVERTISEMENT ON PAGE 19

THANKGIVINGS PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (NEVER KNOWN TO FAIL) O, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. There are none who can withstand your power. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. (make request). O, Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3 times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. This prayer must be said for 3 days and after that request will be granted (will never fail). This prayer must be published immediately. H.M.N. PRAYER FOR A SPECIAL REQUEST Pray for 3 days. Publish on the 3rd day. See what will happen on the 4th day. Oh! Dear Mother of God, Our Lady of Conception Aparecida! ~Oh! Saint Rita of Cassia and Saint Jude worker of miracles and helper of impossible causes pray for me. Saint Expedite, Saint of urgent causes. Saint Edwiges the Saint of the needy, you know how desperate I feel, please ask Jesus to help me. (Here mention your request). May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored and glorified for ever. Pray 1 Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be ... Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. M.L.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Our deadline for receipt of family notices is 2.30pm on Tuesday. We cannot guarantee publication after this time.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES CRONIN Margaret

CONNELLY Miko

BYRNE Michael

WALSH Mary

WALSH Mick

Mote Park, Roscommon 16th Anniversary 6th April 2000

Newtown, Glinsk Who passed away on 30th March 2000 (16th Anniversary)

Scregg, Knockcroghery Who died on 8th March 2007

“Mirabelle” Castle Street, Roscommon Who died 22nd February 2016

(22nd Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather, Mick Walsh, Moher, Lanesboro, Co Roscommon, who died on the 30th March 1994

A special day, Another year, A loving thought, A silent tear.

Always remembered by her husband Sonnie and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery at 7pm on Monday 4th April.

RUSHE Patrick and Mary Clooneen, Athleague (24th & 7th Anniversaries)

A silent thought A quiet prayer For special people in God’s care.

Remembered always by their family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 2nd April in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague at 7pm.

LARKIN Anthony St. John’s, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (6th Anniversary) In loving memory of Anthony, who died on 31st March 2010 Out of our lives you may be gone, But in our hearts you will always belong.

Sadly missed by his family.

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

Always remembered by his wife Bridgie and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday 3rd April at 10am.

CONNELLY Noel Ballinakill, Glinsk Who passed away on 3rd April 2015 (1st Anniversary)

It doesn’t take a special day To bring you to our minds, For days without a thought of you Are very hard to find. Those who mean the most to us Are never really gone For in our thoughts and in our hearts Their memory still lives on.

A silent thought A quiet prayer For a special person in God’s care.

Always remembered by your sisters Bridie and Lillie, brother John, nephews and nieces, sister-in-law and brother-in-law. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery on Saturday 2nd April at 7pm.

FEENEY Tommie Ballyglass, Ballymacurley Who died 31st March 1996 (20th Anniversary)

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us everyday. And when old times we do recall It’s then we miss them most of all.

Always remembered by your loving wife May and family. Anniversary Mass in Ballinaheglish Church on Thursday 31st March at 7.30pm.

The relatives of Mary Walsh, wish to thank all those who attended her Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial. To those who travelled long distances, sent Mass Cards, letters of condolence and floral tributes, a kind word of thanks. We especially wish to thank Canon Eugene McLoughlin, Monsignor Charles Travers and Fr. Irek for the concelebration of her Funeral Mass and Burial and also the church choir. Thanks to Pat and Tom Smyth for their care to detail and their professionalism and to the gravediggers for preparing Mary’s resting place so respectfully. We also wish to thank the doctor and nurses of St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin, Portiuncula, Ballinasloe, The Galway Clinic, and Dr. Hanratty. We are grateful too for the care given by the Irish Cancer Society, The Palliative Care Team and the Ambulance Service. We wish to express our appreciation of the Guard of Honour formed by her fellow members of Roscommon Bridge Club. Mary will be sadly missed and remembered with love by many. Mary’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated at 12 noon on Saturday 2nd April in the Sacred Heart Home Chapel, Roscommon. May she Rest in Peace.

Loved and missed every day, by your wife Catherine and children Katie, Aoife and Michael. ~~~~~~~~~~

Your loving mother, sisters, brothers and families. Anniversary Mass in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk on Sunday 3rd April at 10am.

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Forever loved and missed more every day, by your loving wife Mary ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Silent memories keep us near, As time unfolds another year, Out of our lives you may have gone, But in our hearts you still live on.

Forever loved and missed more every day by your sons Micheal and Seamus, daughters Martina and Georgina, Declan, Annette, Marian and grandchildren.

SWEENEY Michael F. (Todd) Lanesborough Road, and Corrigeen, Strokestown Who passed away on 29th March 2006

A date filled with sadness Returns to us today To mark the day you left us In such a sudden way. Will those who think of him today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Always in our hearts Forever in our thoughts and prayers.

Ros Memorials

If tears could build a stairway, And memories were a lane, We would walk right up to Heaven, And bring you back again. No farewell words were spoken, No time to say goodbye, You were gone before we knew it, And only God knows why. Our hearts still ache in sadness, And secret tears still flow, What it meant to lose you, No one will ever know.

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Always remembered by his wife Angela, his sons Pearse, Michael and Emmett, daughter Elizabeth and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass offered.

MANNION Eileen

MURRAY Seamus

Castlestrange, Castlecoote, Roscommon Who passed away on the 26th of April 2014 (2nd Anniversary)

Lisphelim, Knockcroghery and Galway Road, Roscommon (28th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Seamus, who died on 30th March 1988 You can only have one mother, Patient, kind and true; No other friend in all the world, Will be the same to you. When other friends forsake you, To your mother you will turn, For all her loving kindness She asks nothing in return, As we look upon her picture, Sweet memories we recall, Of a face so full of sunshine, And a smile for one and all, Sweet Jesus, Take this message, To our dear mother up above; Tell her how we miss her, And give her all our love.

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unheard but always near Still loved, still missed and very dear. A special place is where you are That special place is not too far.

Remembered dearly by Phil and Fiona. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ In loving memory of my dear brother, Seamus Murray, Lisphelim, Knockcroghery, who died March 30th 1988 His smiling way and pleasant face Are a pleasure to recall, He had a kindly word for each And died beloved by all. Some day I hope to meet him, Some day, I know not when, To clasp his hand in the better land, Never to part again.

Deeply loved and sadly missed by husband Martin, daughter Órla, sons Paul and Andrew, son-in-law Adrian, daughters-in-law Audrey and Fiona, and her grandchildren Rónan, Cathal, Nicole, Eve and Martin. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 3rd of April 2016 in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague at 10am.

Always remembered by Geraldine.

Cloonfad, Co. Roscommon Telephone: 094 96 20149 Mobile: 086 6026001(24hrs) Funeral homes available, full provision of hearse & staff, embalming, supervision and attending all necessary arrangements. 24 Hour Service.

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Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

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Pictured at the Irish Restaurant Awards held in Sligo recently are Benny O’Connell, owner of Benny’s Deli, Castlerea who won ‘Best Customer Service in Roscommon’ and his niece Deirdre O’Connell, owner of Lena’s Tea Room, Carrick-onShannon who won ‘Best Cafe in Leitrim’. Both Deirdre and Benny will represent their counties at the final held in Dublin in May.

Elphin business wins place at National Enterprise Awards A manufacturing company from Elphin is representing Roscommon at the National Enterprise Awards, the Local Enterprise Office has announced. Vincent Campbell from Roschem Products Ltd won the top prize at the County Enterprise Awards competition, which was one of the highlights during Local Enterprise Week. The local company, which employs six people full-time, was set up in 1993 by Haulie Beirne and was purchased by Vincent Campbell in 2008, and will now be going head to head with thirty other high achieving businesses, to win a share of the €20,000 national prize fund. The announcement of the winner was made by Louise Ward, Head of Enterprise, and the presentation of a cash prize and a trophy was made by the Leas Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice, at a ceremony in the Ab-

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bey Hotel. The Director of Services, Martin Lydon, addressed the gathering, congratulating Roschem and assuring Vincent and his team of the continued support of the LEO and Roscommon County Council. Run every year by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices in the Local Authorities Network, the National Enterprise Awards were set up to celebrate the achievements of Ireland’s micro-enterprise sector. Previous national winners have included companies such as Irish Yogurts from West Cork, DesignPro from Limerick, Simtech Aviation from Fingal, Innovate IT and Telecoms from Wexford, Hot Irishman Irish Coffee (Walsh Whiskey Distillery) from

Carlow, along with Grouse Lodge Recording Studios from Westmeath. The local winner meets the judging panel in April, for a chance to win one of twelve awards and the top prize of €10,000 for their business at the National Enterprise Awards ceremony on June 9th. Entrepreneurs are judged on areas such as company competitiveness, use of technology, responsiveness to market trends alongside their own leadership qualities. Further details about the supports available to local start-ups and small businesses are available through www.localenterprise.ie. Updates around local companies competing at the National Enterprise Awards are available by searching #NEAwards16

ROSCOMMON LEISURE CENTRE Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for inclusion on a panel for the following post

LEISURE CENTRE ATTENDANT – FULL TIME AND PART TIME Candidates must have Irish Water Safety Pool Lifeguard Qualifications or equivalent and a Swim Ireland Level 2 Swim Teaching Qualification or equivalent

Application forms and full particulars may be obtained from: The Facility Manager, Roscommon Leisure Centre, Ardnanagh, Roscommon Email: roscommonleisure@gmail.com Telephone: 090 6628219 Candidates may be shortlisted on the basis of information supplied on application form/curriculum vitae.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is extended to 5.00 p.m. on Friday 8th April 2016 Canvassing will disqualify. Roscommon Leisure Centre is an equal opportunities employer.

‘Many small business success stories here’ According to Louise Ward of the Local Enterprise Office Roscommon the county has a growing number of small business success stories to showcase. She said: “We support hundreds of small businesses and start-ups every year, as the first stop shop for enterprises in the county. “From start-ups setting up to small businesses looking to expand, the Local Enterprise Office supports, mentors and develops entrepreneurs every step of the way. “The National Enterprise Awards are a way of shining the international spotlight on their success stories, giving local businesses the recognition they deserve. The county has a vibrant start-up and small business community and this awards competition is an important way of telling their success stories.”

Haulie Beirne and Vincent Campbell, Roschem Products Ltd., with Leas Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice.

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Haulie Beirne (fourth from left) and Vincent Campbell (sixth from left), Roschem Products Ltd, with Leas Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice. Also pictured are Roscommon Co. Co. staff Jeremy Cullen, Cait Kenny, Louise Ward, Anne Browne and Martin Lydon.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

SportsPeople Rossies hoping to rise to occasion against All-Ireland champions Allianz National Football League Division One: Roscommon v Dublin on Sunday at Dr Hyde Park at 2 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

Despite the fact that Dublin are in the semi-finals and Roscommon are also almost certain to be in the last four as well, the visit of the All-Ireland champions to Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday is a glamour fixture which is sure to draw a massive crowd. However the exchanges might not be as hotly contested as would be the case if the points were needed by either or both teams. Despite the problems with the Hyde Park pitch, which were obvious to everyone last Sunday, it is almost certain that the game will go ahead at the Roscommon town venue on Sunday. A final decision will not be made until Saturday, with Carrick-on-Shannon being the alternative venue. Dublin have been so impressive in this league campaign and are in fact unbeaten. They are sure to take a look at some of their fringe players on Sunday, but even those players are household names. The opportunity to see the likes of Johnny Cooper, James McCarthy, Brian Fenton, Paul Flynn, Kevin McMenamon, Bernard Brogan, Ciaran Kilkenny, Cormac Costello, Diarmuid Connolly and

Peader Andrews in action will ensure a huge crowd again on Sunday. Roscommon should have Ian Kilbride, Niall Daly and Senan Kilbride available for selection, which will strengthen the team. However to be without the U21s – Ultan Harney, Diarmuid Murtagh, Cathal Compton, Sean Mullooly and Ronan Daly – will be a blow. If the game is played at Dr. Hyde Park it is certain that the conditions will be very heavy and therefore it will be a test of stamina for both sides. With the pressure off both sides (only a massive defeat will affect Roscommon’s semi-final prospects) the game might not be as intense as if there was more at stake. Roscommon will want to respond positively after last weekend’s disappointment and I expect them to be very competitive. But when you look at the Dublin team and the players they have, particularly up front, it is difficult to see anything other than a win for the champions. It promises to be a great occasion with another bumper crowd present. Match odds: Roscommon 9/4 v Dublin 4/9; Draw 8/1. Prediction: Dublin, by three points.

Roscommon v Mayo last Sunday: Ian Kilbride awaits the outcome of this aerial battle between Aidan O’Shea and Fintan Cregg. Picture: Andrew Fox

Dubs’ test ‘another step along the way’ – McStay < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon were well beaten by Mayo last weekend and were subjected to some strong criticism in certain sectors of the national media. However joint manager Kevin McStay (pictured) told People Sport this week that Roscommon are taking the defeat on board but that they learned nothing new in the Mayo game. He said Roscommon intend to be competitive again on Sunday next despite the fact that they will be short a number of players for various reasons. “Last Sunday’s game against Mayo was another step along the way for us as a group. We have a really honest squad of players and we knew that we were going to be up against it

with a more physical Mayo side and that’s the way it proved, in the very testing conditions. “We were under pressure at midfield and I have to say that Fintan Cregg and Ian Kilbride have been doing a great job there in recent games. They have done really well there in the games we played to date, but we could not cope with the sheer size and physique of Seamie O’Shea and Tom Parsons, and other like Aidan O’Shea. Fintan Cregg is a half-forward and Ian Kilbride is a half-back and we know that. Remember that last year the Roscommon midfield partnership was Cathal Shine and Kevin Higgins and both those guys are unavailable at the moment. “Then when you add in

the fact that Donie Shine, Cathal Compton, Tom Corcoran, Niall Daly and Ultan Harney are either on the U-21 team or injured, then all the big players that we could use in the midfield area are not available for selection at the moment. It is not an excuse for the defeat, but those are the facts. “I was very happy with the way we competed towards the end of the game and (the fact that we) made a fight out of it. We didn’t lie down and that was great to see. “We will be short a lot of players this weekend again but we intend to be competitive against Dublin. We will not be asking the U-21 players to take part on Sunday. They have a big game on Saturday night

and it would be unfair to ask them to play, but we will be fielding our strongest available team after that. We wish the U-21s all the best on Saturday, it’s a huge game for them. “We want to play in Croke Park on Sunday week and give the lads a chance to perform in the league semi-finals and hopefully we will get that chance – so we will be putting in a big effort against Dublin. We know what they are like and to remain unbeaten in the league is a huge feat. They are a really top class team so we know what we are facing. But our lads will relish playing the All-Ireland champions in front of another big crowd. “We know that we will have to be better than last week – with certain aspects

of our performance – and with the championship coming up we are getting players back from injury. Hopefully the battle for places on the panel will heat up. “We were disappointed with our display against Monaghan in the first round and we addressed that and put it right and we will be hoping that the lads will respond after the Mayo defeat with a big display on Sunday and we will see where that will take us. “We didn’t get carried away with the four wins and neither are we getting carried away with the defeat against Mayo. We are in the early stages of our development as a team and this Sunday is another step along the way,” he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

SportsPeople This weekend’s action This weekend’s racing today is at Powerstown Park in Clonmel starting at 4.10 pm. There is racing on the all weather in Dundalk tomorrow with a 6.00 pm start. On Saturday the action is at Proudstown Park outside Navan at 2.25 pm with the Grade 2 Webster Cup Chase. On Sunday there is national hunt racing including the Grade 2 Hugh McMahon Memorial Novice Chase at 1.55 pm in Limerick and on the flat at headquarters on the Curragh, first race at 2.05 pm featuring the Group 3 Gladness Stakes. A cute mouse, wily fox and rogue angel combined to win the Irish Grand National on Monday. The Mouse Morris trained and Ger Fox ridden Rogue Angel led the field a merry dance until they were pressed and overtaken by Bless The Wings with Ruby Walsh aboard over the last. In a driving finish from there Ger Fox got his mount back up by a short head on the line in the colours of Gigginstown Stud. The son of Presenting, winner of the Kerry National, was backed from 25/1 morning price into 16/1. Ballyadam Approach finished third and the winner’s stable mate Folsom Blue fourth A very emotional Mouse Morris, who lost his son Christopher last year, said afterwards: “It’s unbelievable. Tiffer was looking down on me today. He helped me there. That’s just special.” Mouse won the race as a jockey on Billycan in 1977 and trained Hear The Echo to win in 2008, He stands at 70 in the Grand National entries and will probably miss the cut but is also in the Scottish National a week later. Kerry Lee made a successful raid on Fairyhouse winning the Grade 1 Ryanair Gold Cup on Sunday and taking another big

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

prize winning the Grade 2 Normans Grove Chase on Tuesday with Top Gamble ridden by British champion elect Richard Johnson. Top Gamble is likely to return to Punchestown if he comes out of this race sound. There were 4 British winners at the meeting, Value At Risk for Dan Skelton in the Grade 2 Conditions Hurdle and Kim Bailey’s Emily Gray in the Grade 3 Mares Chase. There was local success at Fairyhouse on Sunday when Dollar And A Dream won the Novice Handicap Hurdle trained by Tony Martin for New York based friends, publicans Red Shields and Niall Reilly. The 7-Y-O was bred outside Athleague by Michael Finneran, manager of Lenebane Racecourse.

Aintree Grand National News Sam Whaley-Cohen, as expected here, failed in his appeal against the 7 day ban imposed by the Carlisle stewards for his riding of Long Run but he can ride in the Grand National due to wording of the rules which state bans apply on days when there is an amateur riders’ chase, an amateur riders’ hurdle or a conditional and amateur riders’ bumper. Conditional and amateur riders’ clause refers only to bumpers and not hurdles. There is only a conditional and amateur riders hurdle on the day of the National meaning that day is exempt from the ban. The ruling also affects Nina Carberry, who as an amateur, can also ride on National day despite the whip ban she got at Cheltenham.

General News Gordon Elliott’s Cause Of Causes and WP Mullins’ Measureofmydreams head

Rogue Angel, Bless The Wings and Ballyadam Approach jump the last on Monday.

the Irish entry in the Scottish Grand National on Saturday week. The pair are the joint ante post favourites of the 103 entries for the Ayr race. Willie Mullins, who trails Paul Nicholls by less than £160,00, confirmed his intentions to make a bold bid for a first British trainers’ championship with the trainer’s declared intention to send Annie Power, Nichols Canyon, Don Poli, Vautour and Douvan among his large team for the Grand National meeting in Aintree starting this day week. He said that his top novice hurdler Min will not travel.

Point to Point View With an additional meeting to the schedule on Saturday racing takes place at Monksgrange in Wexford, the sunny south east, starting at 1.00 pm following the cancellation of the scheduled meeting at Tralee. On Sunday the meeting at Templemore

in Tipperary has also been cancelled leaving 2 meetings at Ballynoe in Cork, starting at 1.30 pm and much closer to home in Castletowngeoghan outside Mullingar with a 2.00 pm start. The Joseph O’Reilly Hunter Chase at Fairyhouse was won by the winner of the Rockfield Open race Sydney Paget on Tuesday. Bought out of David Pipes Yard the horse has won 4 and finished 2nd in his other starts since joining the Pat Doyle yard. Best wishes go to champion point-topoint rider Derek O’Connor who fractured his left leg in a fall off Wille Burke’s Bidasse at Quakerstown on Sunday. The Galwayman, leading this year’s championship, is facing up to a 10 week lay-off. Jamie Codd drew level with O’Connor with 35 winners at Loughanmore on Tuesday and the championship looks to between himself and Barry O’Neill on 32.

SICK AS A PARROT/OVER THE MOON

This week’s Awards…

ROSCOMMON & DISTRICT LEAGUE NEWS

Dunphy blasts U-21s as FAI look to change < DAN DOONER

Imagine the utter dismay at FAI HQ as Eamon Dunphy declared himself “horrified” by Ireland’s U-21s. Yes, the former Millwall player was at it again last week when he offered his opinion on Italy’s 4-1 win over Noel King’s side. “I watched a bit of the Under-21 game (against Italy). I thought it was very, very poor and a bit depressing. I was sort of horrified,” said the former Ireland international, speaking on RTE radio. Earlier this week the FAI Development Officer for Roscommon, Adrian Car-

berry, told People Sport that things need to change if Ireland’s underage results are to improve. Carberry said: “We need to sit down and do more as a footballing community. Football has changed with a bigger pool of players and Irish players going over to England are treated like pieces of meat.” Surely then the answer is player development closer to home. But according to the former Athlone Town player, clubs in the Airtricity League need to do more when it comes to supporting junior clubs. “League of Ireland clubs need to give back and de-

velop links with clubs in the community,” he said, before adding “The top clubs in England prefer to buy players who are the finished article so I think our national league needs to do more to develop talent here.” As for the tradition of sending our best and brightest to England and Scotland, Carberry insisted that also needed to be looked at: “We need to look towards mainland Europe more, players are better rounded there. Clubs in England don’t care enough.” So is Dunphy right, is it all doom and gloom for Irish football? Carberry believes

things are changing slowly, but for the better. “We’re trying to make changes here. We have a new development plan and we’re trying to get away from winning at all costs at younger age groups. These things take time and junior clubs need more help and recognition. We need to avoid being lazy as coaches and constantly be looking to change things and improve.” Time will tell whether Irish football can recreate the golden days, which saw the development of players such as Robbie Keane and Damien Duff. Duff has already retired and Keane is

Game of the Week

RovDysart and Skyvalley ion ers wrecked our predict g streak during an entertainin 2-2 draw last Sunday.

Player of the Week

this Plenty of candidates for give one but we’re going to ea it to Peter Farrell of Castler ce Celtic. Farrell scored a braonlast weekend against Clomier fad United in the Pre Division.

The ‘I’m still here’ Award

The FAI Regional Development Officer for Roscommon, Adrian Carberry, has said more needs to be done at the grassroots of Irish soccer.

not too far away. The FAI will be hoping the excitement of Euro 2016 will

spawn a new generation of Irish stars as they look towards the future.

him? Leon Best. Remember ices serv his d ere nte volu He’s eill for Euro 2016. Martin O’N . ved relie be will

Dooner’s weekend predictions We’re very modest here at People Sport but it should be noted that only one prediction was incorrect last week. This week the game of the weekend appears to be the Connacht Junior Cup clash between bitter rivals Ballaghaderreen and Ballinasloe. It’s just a pity one of them will go out of the competition. Elsewhere, Castlerea Celtic will look to take the initiative in the Premier Division as they take on Dysart at home. Of course, as always, all fixtures are subject to the changeable weather.

Saturday, April 2nd The Herald Premier Division (7.45 pm) Castlerea Celtic v Dysart FC Castlerea are really motoring at this stage following another good win last week. I fancy them here to add to that recent run. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic. Moore United v MD Town Home advantage for Moore means a win. Prediction: Moore United. Killeen Sports Ground Division 2 (7.45 pm) Cloonfad United B v Skyvalley Rovers B Both sides were well beaten last

weekend and will be looking to bounce back this weekend. The visitors should just have enough. Prediction: Skyvalley Rovers B. Connacht Junior Cup Quarter-Final (2 pm) Ballaghaderreen FC v Ballinasloe Town Game of the weekend. Ballaghaderreen have a huge score to settle with the visitors. The visitors have been on another level this season though. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town. The Herald Premier Division (2 pm) St. John’s Athletic v Cloonfad United

Home advantage should sway it for the Harbour Men. Cloonfad’s struggles look set to continue. Prediction: St. John’s Athletic. Ballymoe v Skyvalley Rovers Tough to separate these sides, as both have performed fairly well this season. Prediction: Draw. Norio’s Takeaway Division One (2 pm unless stated) Ballaghaderreen FC B v Ahascragh United (11 am) Ahascragh have enjoyed some decent results this season and I fancy them to get another one here. Prediction: Ahascragh United.

Loughglynn United v Ballinasloe Town B The visitors should just have too much for a game Loughglynn side in this one. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town B. Brazukas v Kilkerrin United Brazukas have been involved in some high-scoring games this season and this could be another one here with the Brazilians coming out on top. Prediction: Brazukas. Killeen Sports Ground Division 2 (2 pm unless stated) KC Celtic v MD Town B This one is tough to call, but I’m leaning towards MD Town as

they have been more consistent this season. Prediction: MD Town B. Lough Harps v Moore United B This could be very one sided in favour of the home side. If I was putting money on it, I’d say Lough Harps -3 is probably the safest bet. Prediction: Lough Harps. St. John’s Athletic B v CP Ajax (11 am) The Castleplunkett side have turned in some very impressive performances this season and I fancy another one here. Prediction: CP Ajax.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

Dan’s SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER The week in numbers

Golfers “bulk up” to improve their game THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner I recently read an article in the Irish Times newspaper which described the “faddish bulking up of golf’s top players”. The writer went on to discuss the decline of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s transformation from “chubby adolescent” to “work-out Rory”. To cut a long story short, the article ranted about golfers bulking up and the detrimental effect it could have on their performance in the “most psychological of games”. In other words: it’s all mental and there’s no need to work out to the extent our Rory does. Now, as many part-time golfers across Roscommon can attest: golfing can lead to injuries

to backs, shoulders, forearms, etc. This is probably down to the simple fact that a golf swing is an explosive movement. Therefore, core work and simple strengthening can prevent those injuries, while also adding flexibility and an extra 5 or 10 yards on fairways. Let’s face it: as well as preventing injury and adding those extra yards, proper strength and conditioning also helps to shred those extra pounds. Looks aren’t everything of course, but then again John Daly and Colin Montgomerie don’t feature in many Nike advertisements! Rory is entitled to improve his fitness and it doesn’t appear to have prevented him from remaining competitive on the course. It has also enabled him to become more marketable off it. Away from the PGA, for those who play for the sheer fun of it on courses across Roscommon, strength and conditioning – even

25 2 73

That’s the number of All-Ireland senior football titles Dublin have won. The current All-Ireland champions are Roscommon’s opponents this weekend. The number of Belgian cyclists who tragically died at different events last weekend. That’s how many days are left until the Republic of Ireland take on Sweden in their opening game of Euro 2016 in Paris.

Sporting week on Tweet Street David Kilcoyne @davidkilcoyne1 Thomond Park is the only place you will get a sniff of the liq tomorrow!! Hope to see you all there. (The Munster prop makes a case for a Good Friday visit to Limerick.) Rory McIlroy has gone through a body transformation over the last few years, but it hasn’t stopped him competing for majors.

in small doses – can help prevent injury while also improving your game. And hey, if Nike get in touch that’s just a bonus! Seriously though, improving posture and core strength as well

as flexibility is hardly a bad thing, and as long as Rory lives well off the course and keeps his head on it, he should be in a strong position to contest majors for many years yet.

Handball

Golf

Coman’s pair clinch Connacht doubles title

Egg-citing golf action over Easter

Kiltimagh Handball Club played host to the Connacht Junior Doubles final last weekend. St. Coman’s Darren Beatty and Oisin Naughton faced off with Seamus Conneely (Moycullen) and Peter Davern (Headford). The Roscommon pair came out on top in two straight games 21-6, 21-7. Darren and Oisin progress to the All-Ireland semis in two weeks’ time against Ulster. In the Silver Masters Doubles Connacht Final, Cormac O’Brien and Aengus Cunningham overcame Ballaghaderreen’s Joe Dowling and James Towey following a two and a half hour marathon in Moycullen on Saturday. The Roscommon pair eventually prevailed 20-21, 21-17, 21-12. In the Ladies Minor Doubles, Fiona Tully teamed up with Jennifer McCormack in Ballaghaderreen last Saturday as they faced Galway pair of Anna Ni Odhran and Eimear Ni Bhiada. The Roscommon girls came out on top 21-11, 21-18. Unfortunately, the Coman’s Boys Minor Doubles pairing of Cathal O’Connor and Michael Egan were beaten in their Connacht Final by Cian O’Conghaile and Oisin O’Cualain of Galway. The Rocommon boys went down 8-21, 16-21.

In Castlerea last weekend, Dara Bruen came away with the men’s Harmac Medical competition with James Joyce blooming in 2nd place. The ladies competition was won by Maureen Claffey with Mamie Creaton in second. Tomorrow (Friday, April 1st) will see the first scramble of the year take place. Across in Boyle, the Club Classic was won by Sean Heslin, John McGuinn, Michael Rush and Pat Conroy with 92 points. The final Winter Open of the season was won by Paddy McLoughlin with 21 points with that man Sean Heslin again in contention with 19 points. In Strokestown, Donal Cox won the first round of the GOY and Austin Trappe took the seniors Easter competition for the men, while Bernie Taylor took the ladies version. In Athlone, the ladies Shamrock Special Open was won by Siobhan McGrath, while the men’s competition was taken by Bill McMickan. The Don Panoz Qualifying competition was won by Yvonne Walsh on 37 points while Pat McTiernan won the 11-hole Club competition with 23 points. Finally for this week, Sean Feeney won the Wednesday Open with 41 points.

Damien O’Meara @damien_omeara If I lived to 100 & didn’t shave I’d still never produce enough hair to replicate RK’s beard. He seems to grow it like lightning. (The RTE correspondent admires Roy Keane’s Zeus like facial hair.)

Gary Lineker @GaryLineker Sad to hear that Johan Cruyff has died. Football has lost a man who did more to make the beautiful game beautiful than anyone in history. (The former England striker pays tribute to the father of ‘Total Football’.)

Wayne Rooney @WayneRooney Devastating news about young Mark, Evan & family from Derry. Your support hasn’t gone unnoticed. Prayers with family. #rooneyformarkandevan (The Manchester United captain remembers the victims of the Buncrana tragedy.)

Pitch and Putt

Season starts in Bealnamulla The pitch and putt season teed off last week in Bealnamulla with the Lady Captain’s Drive-In. There will be now weekly competitions each Monday at 10.30 am and 7 pm. Last week there were two 18-hole competitions and results are as follows – 1st Nett: Mary Breen, 1st Gross: Doreen Green and 2nd Nett: Ita Shanagher. In the second competition, Bridie Nugent was 1st on nett while Cathriona Harrington took 1st place on gross.

The People’s Champion of the Week

Dan Dooner chats with former CBS student and up and coming cyclist with Team iTap, Daire Feeley When did your love affair with the bike begin? I competed in so many sports when I was young, but I picked up the bike at the age of 12 or 13 and it clicked from there. I love the suffering and returning home after a hard training session knowing that I gave my all. Who do you regard as your sporting hero? My sporting hero is Peter Sagan, the Slovakian cyclist, as he is just a total legend on and off the bike. He’s never a sore loser and shows great sportsmanship toward fellow cyclists.

What do you eat post-competition? My favourite post-competition meal is porridge with chocolate protein powder, a piece of dark chocolate with a tub of blueberries thrown in for good measure. Perfection! (This cycling lark sounds delicious!) What’s your best sporting memory? My best sporting memory is definitely winning my first ever race. I was in shock at the time as I wasn’t used to winning. I don’t think I even celebrated at the time I was that shocked! It’s definitely something I still savour, great feeling!

What’s your worst sporting memory? My worst memory is face-planting at 60 kilometres per hour. I wasn’t the most attractive person for a couple of weeks after that! What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? The best advice I’ve ever been given was not to trust other competitors or feel too much sympathy for other competitors because at the end of the day the nature of the sport means it’s every man for himself. You don’t train all those hours to let someone else have the win!

On yer bike! iTap cyclist Daire Feeley is this week’s People’s Champion.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

SportsPeople Camogie

GAA Results Adult Football League Division Three (Tansey Cup) Creggs 6-15 Castlerea St. Kevin’s 1-5 Adult Football League Division 4 St. Croan’s 3-14 Oran 2-6 St. Barry’s 2-16 Kilglass Gaels 2-8 St. Ronan’s 3-10 Strokestown 1-13 Clann na nGael 1-9 St. Dominic’s 1-6 Pádraig Pearses 0-16 Boyle 1-7 Adult Football League Division 5 Michael Glavey’s 4-10 Ballinameen 0-5 Kilbride 3-16 St. Joseph’s 1-8 Roscommon Gaels 4-15 St. Aidan’s 1-10 Adult Football League Division 6 St Faithleach’s W/O v St Barry’s Tulsk Lord Edwards W/O v Eire Óg

Roscommon camogie stars power past Dublin Irish Daily Star National Camogie League ROSCOMMON DUBLIN

GAA Fixtures Sunday, April 4th Adult Football League Division 4 (11 am) At Kilronan Park: St. Ronan’s v Oran At Enfield: St. Croan’s v Boyle At Parc Naomh Bearraí: St. Barry’s v St. Dominic’s At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v Kilglass Gaels At Strokestown: Strokestown v Clann na nGael Adult Football League Division 5 (11 am) At Kilteevan: St. Joseph’s (Kilteevan) v Michael Glavey’s At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v Fuerty At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v Ballinameen At Kilmore: Kilmore v Kilbride Adult Football League Division 6 (11 am) At Croghan: Shannon Gaels v St. Faithleach’s At Parc Naomh Bearraí: St. Barry’s v Tulsk Lord Edwards

Underage GAA Fixtures Thursday, March 31st U-16 Football League Division 2 At Ballyleague: St. Faithleach’s v Tulsk Lord Edwards. 7 pm U-14 Football League Division 1 (6.45 pm) At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v St. Brigid’s At Mulhern Park: St. Ciaran’s v Boyle At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Pádraig Pearses U-14 Football League Division 2 (6.45 pm) At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v Elphin At Rockfield: Oran v St. Michael’s At St. Dominic’s: St. Dominic’s v Castlerea St. Kevin’s U-14 Football League Division 3 (6.45 pm) At Ballyleague: St. Faithleach’s v Strokestown At Kilbride: Kilbride v Western-Gaels At Parc Naomh Bearraí: Kilglass Gaels/St. Barry’s v Eire Óg U-14 Football League Division 4 (6.45 pm) At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Michael Glavey’s At Abbey Park: Boyle v St. Croan’s

Roscommon’s good run in the National Camogie League continued on Sunday last with a hardfought win against Dublin in a game played in difficult weather conditions at Knockcroghery. Roscommon had the elements at their backs in the opening half and they dominated the exchanges – although scores were hard to come by and Roscommon were responsible for a number of bad wides. Nevertheless they were 05 to 0-0 ahead at half-time with Kelley Hopkins (2), Annette McGeeney (2) and a 45’ converted by Niamh Coyle providing the Roscommon scores. The big question at the break was would a fivepoint margin be good enough and the answer was emphatically answered as the Roscommon defence, in which Susan

1-6 0-1 Spillane was outstanding, gave the Dublin attack no space. They did a superb job restricting the Dubs to just one point, and that was a free in the 48th minute. Niamh Coyle pointed a free for Roscommon with five minutes left and then in injury-time Roscommon scored the game’s only goal when substitute Fiona Connell shot home from close range. Apart from the outstanding Susan Spillane, Kelley Hopkins, Joanne Beattie, Caroline Connaughton, Elaine Daly and Annette McGeeney were most prominent for an impressive home side. Roscommon: C Connaughton; A Fallon, S Coyle, P Lennon; S Spillane, E Daly, J Beattie; K Hopkins (0-2), C Dowling; N Watson, N Coyle (0-2), R Brennan; S O’Brien, A McGeeney (0-2), A Rog-

erson. Subs: C Curley for Brennan, D Regan for Rogerson, F Connell (1-0), for O’Brien.

Minors reach AllIreland ‘B’ ﬁnal All-Ireland Minor B Camogie Championship Roscommon 3-8 Meath 1-2 Roscommon minor camogie team will contest the All-Ireland final in the B grade after this win against Meath in Rockfield last Saturday. Lorraine Kenny set Roscommon on their way with an early goal and the same player followed up with another well-taken goal to help Roscommon into a 2-1 to 0-0 lead after only 12 minutes. By half-time, Roscommon led by 2-3 to 0-2. Meath began the second half with a goal but Roscommon re-established their dominance and after Aisling Dempsey scored Roscommon’s third goal the game was over as a

Kelley Hopkins (left) and Elaine Daly…were both in action for Roscommon.

contest. Roscommon: Fiona Tully; Aisling McDermott, Eimear Lennon, Katie Lavin; Rachel Dolan, Niamh Farrell (0-1), Nora Brennan; Rachel Fitzmaurice, Leah Rowe (0-5); Laura Keenan, Grainne Whyte (0-1), Shauna Fallon (0-1); Lorraine Kenny (2-0), Aisling

Dempsey (1-0), Eimear McNally. Subs: Lisa Mullen, Meadbh Tiernan, Ciara Mulry, Lisa Dolan, Alisha Lenihan, Patsy Farrell, Aisling McGrath, Lara Croghan, Sarah Carty, Bridget Moylan, Niamh Madden, Maria Lohan, Anna Foxe, Laura Mannion, Laoise Fitzpatrick.

Friday, April 1st U-16 Football League Division 3 At Parc Naomh Bearraí: Kilglass Gaels/St. Barry’s v St. Aidan’s. 7.45 pm Saturday, April 2nd U-16 Football League Division 1 (12 pm) At Rockfield: Oran v St. Brigid’s At St. Dominic’s: St. Dominic’s v Castlerea St. Kevin’s At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Roscommon Gaels U-16 Football League Division 2 (12 pm) At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v Strokestown At Ballyleague: St. Faithleach’s v Kilmore/Shannon Gaels At Tulsk: Tulsk Lord Edwards v St. Ciaran’s U-16 Football League Division 3 (12 pm) At James Timothy Park: Eire Óg v Kilbride At Abbey Park: Boyle v Elphin U-16 Football League Division 4 (12 pm) At Western Gaels: Western Gaels v Michael Glavey’s At Enfield: St. Croan’s v St. Michael’s Sunday, April 3rd Eurona Brisknet U-14 Hurling Feile (11 am) At Athleague: Athleague\Tremane v St. Dominic’s At Rockfield: Oran v Four Roads At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v Roscommon Gaels Minor Football League Division 4 At Kilronan Park: St. Ronan’s v St. Aidan’s

Claire, Patrick, Ellen, Seamus, Rachel and Anna Murray pictured in Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday. Picture: Andrew Fox

Minors held by neighbours Connacht Minor Football League Round 3 ROSCOMMON LONGFORD Roscommon’s unbeaten record in the Connacht Minor League was preserved

0-7 0-7 after a turgid draw against Longford in a match played in brutal weather

conditions at Kilglass last Saturday. Good football was almost impossible in the wind and rain and scores were at a premium. First-half points from Brian Derwin, Lorcan Daly (2) and Cian McKeon

(free) saw Roscommon go in at the break on level terms at 0-4 each. Early second-half points saw Longford go into a two-point lead by the 35th minute but two pointed frees from Cian McKeon

levelled matters again by the 50th minute. Longford’s Rory Hawkins edged his side ahead with a free with seven minutes left but a late free from Cian McKeon two minutes from time saw Ros-

common gain a deserved share of the spoils. Roscommon: A Brady; K Dockery, A Dowd, D Duff; A Whyte, D McManus, G Kelly; D Glynn, N Murray; D Ruane, C McKeon (0-4), M Bourke; C

Heneghan, L Daly (0-2), B Derwin (0-1). Subs: M McGloin for Bourke, R Thompson for Brady, C Lennon for Heneghan, G Byrne for Ruane, P Halpin for Whyte, L Mollahan for Glynn.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

Seamus Duke ON SPORT Hyde issue is an embarrassing shambles The official attendance at last Sunday’s Roscommon v Mayo match was 12,473 – but chatting to a number of people afterwards there was a view that the attendance was in fact over the 15,000 mark, which is certainly the biggest crowd to attend a league game in Hyde Park since it opened. However it was touch and go whether the game would be played at all. With every passing hail and rain shower that fell around lunchtime, the flooding was getting worse and the conditions were absolutely brutal for the players.

Great GAA successes Congratulations to the Roscommon hurlers who made short work of Monaghan in the Division 3A Final at the weekend. Justin Campbell set promotion as his goal at the start of the year and there is still one hurdle to go. There is nothing that instils confidence into a team more than winning and this Roscommon team remains unbeaten this year. The Roscommon camogie team are also doing well and the ladies football team are looking good for a semi-final place in their league. Add in the minor footballers who are unbeaten in the Connacht Minor League and it has been a great few months in Roscommon GAA.

The whole situation with regard to Dr. Hyde Park is a shambles and an embarrassment. Three big games have been lost to the venue since the start of the year and it looks likely that two more could go by the wayside this weekend. The Connacht U-21 Final could expect to draw at least 5,000 on Saturday, while the visit of the All-Ireland champions Dublin would expect to attract at least another 12,000 on Sunday. At the time of writing it has just been confirmed that home advantage is being conceded and the U-21 match will now be played in Sligo. It is a disaster that we have no proper home venue for our county teams. Kiltoom is a fine venue but it is not able to cope with the crowds that want to attend these big games now. The situation is set to get worse as Dr. Hyde Park will be closed for about 12 months when the remedial work is done and there will be no home league games in 2017 either. The most important people here are the players. To lose home advantage is a big blow, although there is not much advantage in playing on

the type of pitch we saw last Sunday. The work on Hyde Park has to be done and the quicker it is done the better. It must be very difficult for the likes of Club Rossie to be going to business people in Roscommon town looking for money with all this controversy going on – and we all know how important finance is for the running of teams. As for last Sunday’s match, Mayo were by far the better team and the quagmire conditions certainly suited them better. But it is certainly not the end of the world for Roscommon. The game attracted huge national media attention and it is certainly great that our team are getting noticed. The RTE Radio 1 Sunday Sports programme came from Hyde Park last Sunday and all the major TV stations, radio stations and national newspapers were there. However some of the coverage from the national journalists over the past few weeks has been very lazy and it is obvious that a lot of these people who are used to covering Dublin and Cork and Kerry found themselves in new territory dealing with Roscom-

It wasn’t me! Fintan Cregg plays on, with Diarmuid O’Connor grounded. Picture: Andrew Fox

mon. There is no shame in having to learn about new teams, etc. but there is no excuse for getting players’ names wrong either and that has happened a

bit of advice. “When in doubt, leave it out.” That could well be a bit of advice to heed for some of our national journalists too.

From the Internet Horan not buying into Roscommon hype

Cruyff was a true legend The passing of Johan Cruyff last week after a battle with cancer is very sad indeed. The Dutchman was one of the greatest players to ever grace a soccer field. Even after he retired he was credited with developing the way that Barcelona play their football now –and we all know what that is like. It is generally accepted that Cruyff was instrumental in getting Lionel Messi to play for Barca. Cruyff was a true legend. May he rest in peace.

Dympna, Ethan and James Kilcoyne pictured in Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday. Picture: Andrew Fox

U-21s go for three-in-a-row

Johan Cruyff…a true legend.

number of times in the national media in recent weeks. Many years ago on a media course a very well-known and respected journalist gave me a

This Saturday evening our U-21 footballers are going for three Connacht titles in a row. It will be an astounding achievement if they can do it but they will be up against it. Mayo have not been in a Connacht final at this grade since 2009 but they are back with a bang this year – and with a number of senior players at

their disposal they will go into the game as hot favourites. I have a feeling that Roscommon will win this final. In fact Roscommon played poorly against Sligo in the semi-final but in a way that is perfect preparation for Saturday. Roscommon players now know that they will have to play the game

of their lives if they are to win. As I write it has been confirmed that the final is being switched from Dr. Hyde Park to Markievicz Park in Sligo. I suppose it doesn’t really matter where the game is played if Roscommon win it, but to have to give up home advantage in a provincial decider is not ideal.

To call the conditions at Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday ‘boggy’ would be doing a disservice to the many fine bogs of Ireland. The surface of the Bog of Allen would have been more conducive to good football than the Roscommon venue. The conditions really played into Mayo’s hands. They were more physical than Roscommon, and it really told. A four-point win for Mayo brought to an end Roscommon’s run of four consecutive victories. Two of those wins were away from home against some quality opposition – namely Donegal and Kerry. The other two came against Down and Cork, the latter of those being at Páirc Uí Rinn. The Rossies’ form has made them the darlings of this year’s league. They look likely to made the semi-finals, though their final game is against Dublin. James Horan is one of those not buying the Roscommon hype. Writing in his Irish Daily Star column, the former Mayo manager declared that Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell’s side have plenty to do before they can be talked of as a ‘top team’. He also questioned their ability to deal with pressure. He said: “It has to be said that Roscommon were really poor yesterday. They were off the pace, standing off their men and, when they had the wind, their first reaction was to pass backwards or sideways. To me, they looked a bit scared of Mayo. There’s been a lot of hype over Roscommon in recent weeks, and they have some big wins, but Roscommon have flattered to deceive a lot over the past five years or so. They’re often talked up – remember John Evans saying they’d win the All-Ireland – but fail to deliver when the pressure comes on. “Roscommon do have good footballers. The Murtaghs, in particular, are really top players. But they have an awful lot of work to do yet to be up there with the big boys. Roscommon haven’t even won a Connacht title in six years, so you can’t talk of them as a top team yet.” (Balls.ie)

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

SportsPeople

Familiar foe Roscommon Eirgrid Connacht U-21 Football Championship Final: Roscommon v Mayo at Markievicz Park, Sligo on Saturday at 6 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon bid to win their third Connacht U-21 Football Championship title in a row when they face Mayo in this year’s final, which will be played in Sligo on Saturday. The game was initially fixed for Dr. Hyde Park but the problems with the surface there resulted in the match being switched to Sligo earlier this week. Roscommon have a brilliant recent record in this competition but Mayo will provide very strong opposition on Saturday and

Pictured are Ultan Harney, Roscommon, and Brian Reape, Mayo, who were in Dublin to preview the EirGrid GAA U21 Leinster, Connacht and Munster Finals where Dublin take on Kildare, Roscommon will meet Mayo and Kerry will play Cork. Leeson Street Bridge, Dublin. Picture credit: Stephen McCarthy/SPORTSFILE

play against Galway saw Roscommon sweep into the semi-finals while a less than convincing performance was good enough to deal with the threat of Sligo in a one-sided semi-final. However Roscommon players, management and fans will know that Roscommon will have to be at their best if they are to deal with this impressive Mayo side. Mayo have plenty of players on their team with senior experience. Diarmuid O’Connor, Conor Loftus, Stephen Coen and Fergal Boland have all seen sen-

Cathal Callinan evades an incoming challenge during Roscommon’s U-21 Connacht semifinal win over Sligo. Picture: Andrew Fox

Tadhg hails senior U-21s!

Ultan delighted to be back Ultan Harney has recovered from injury and is delighted to be back in business as Roscommon seniors and U-21s look forward to an exciting summer. “I am glad to be back from injury. I was glad to get a run against Sligo and but I was unfit and rusty that day but I’m improving as time goes on. “The past two weeks’ training will have done me good and I am feeling a lot better now – and injuryfree.” Looking ahead to this weekend’s final in Sligo, he said: “It’s a huge challenge. We know what Mayo are about. They are a very strong team. We know a lot of their players from DCU and they are top quality. A lot of their players have All-Ireland minor medals in their pockets too. “It has been seven years since Mayo have been in the U-21 final. They have dominated the senior scene in Connacht for the past five years. They will want to start winning at underage level again. But we are looking forward to it for sure!”

will travel with confidence in the knowledge that their group of players won the minor All-Ireland title in 2013. Mayo have not been in a Connacht U-21 decider since 2009 and they will be very keen to win the provincial crown this year. They easily accounted for Leitrim in the semi-final and will be confident of turning Roscommon over in this decider. Expectation levels in Roscommon were low coming into the championship this year because of a catalogue of injuries to key players. However an excellent dis-

Ultan Harney was back in action against Sligo in the U-21 Connacht Championship Semi-Final recently. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon player Tadhg O’Rourke says he and Cathal Compton have developed a strong midfield understanding. “Any Connacht final will be tough – and especially against Mayo – but we have two good wins behind us and we are building nicely. We have the lads on the senior team feeding in confidence to the group and it’s great to have them there too. “Myself and Cathal (Compton) have an established midfield partnership. We have been together since before minor and we know each other well and that is a great advantage. “Mayo have some class players and the likes of Brian Reape there to add to the lads that won minor All-Ireland medals. But it’s a Connacht final and I can tell you that the Roscommon players are looking forward to it.”

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

SportsPeople Best wishes to Roscommon U21 footballers from

stands between and three-in-a-row ior action, but there are others who Roscommon will have to watch out for too. Seamus Cunniffe from Ballaghaderreen is an impressive full-back while Michael Hall has been doing well at centre half-back. Val Roughneen will partner Stephen Coen in what looks a very strong midfield pairing. Conor Loftus will lead the attack and the Roscommon defence will have to be ready for the threat posed by Diarmuid O’Connor and the razorsharp Brian Reape, who scored 2-4 in the semi-final against Leitrim. Roscommon will probably line out almost similar lines to how they did against Sligo. Sean Mullooly will have his hands full with Brian Reape and Ronan Daly will be given the job of shadowing Diarmuid O’Connor. Fergal Lennon will have the task of following the impressive Conor Loftus. However Tadhg O’Rourke and Cathal Compton will have the biggest job of all on Saturday and their battle at midfield against Stephen Coen and Val Roughneen could hold the key.

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Players are relishing the challenge – Daly < SEAMUS DUKE

The Roscommon team line up for the national anthem ahead of the U-21 Connacht Championship Semi-Final against Sligo. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon look good in attack – if they can get enough ball. Henry Walsh will lead the Roscommon forward-line and the return to full fitness of Ultan Harney is so important for Roscommon’s hopes. Diarmuid Murtagh is also a key man. His scoring

prowess will be crucial as will the performances of Hubert Darcy and Cathal Callinan. This promises to be a fascinating game and I don’t think there will be any more than a point or two in it. Mayo look a strong side

but Roscommon are coming into the game in need of a huge performance and a lot of their key players are coming back to full fitness at just the right time. This is a well-coached and well-managed Roscommon team and the desire to win a three-in-a-

row is there in the panel. If Roscommon can hang in and be in with a shout with 10 minutes to go they can win it. Match odds: Roscommon 1/1; Mayo 1/1. Prediction: Roscommon to win by a point.

Roscommon selector Ian Daly says the players are positive and upbeat as they prepare for a potentially historic final. “We are looking forward to the final. We had two tough games so far but playing Mayo in this final represents a step up. They have a lot of quality players and Roscommon will have to be at their best to compete. “The Galway game was very tough for us because we had a lot of injuries going into the game and we were delighted to win it. We got a number of our injured players back and although they were rusty, they performed very well. We had a good win against Sligo too but we will have to step it up against Mayo. “We are fairly familiar with Mayo, they have a lot of quality players. They are physical and fast and athletic. They can attack from anywhere on the pitch so we will have to be ready for that. We have an excellent record in this competition but that counts for very little. “Every year is different, this is a different Roscommon team and a different Mayo team too from last year – so we will have to be at our absolute best to compete with them. “The bottom line is that these are the games that we want to be in and the players are very upbeat about this game and are relishing the challenge.”

‘Yes we can’ is Mark’s message < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon manager Mark Dowd says that if his team are within “striking distance” of Mayo in Saturday’s Connacht U-21 final, the Rossies can achieve a remarkable provincial three-in-a-row. “It’s a tough prospect without doubt. It is a far tougher game than the ones that we have had so far…that’s for sure. We had good wins against Galway and Sligo but any game against Mayo will not be easy. “Training is going well and we have Jack Earley and Noel Gately back training so that is very welcome. But the bad news is that Evan McGrath has a cruciate injury so he is ruled out for a few months, which is a pity for him.” Dowd said that it was a pity that

there was a question mark about the venue (subsequently switched from Hyde Park to Sligo). As for the opposition, he sees them as favourites. “Mayo will be very good – there is no doubt about that. They will feature the bulk of the lads that won a minor All-Ireland in 2013 and they have also picked up a few lads from the minors in 2014, so they have a very strong squad. We are under no illusions about the task facing us. “Roscommon are going into this final as underdogs, but that doesn’t bother us one way or the other. We will stick to our game plan and if we are within striking distance with 10 minutes to go then the team who wants it most will get over the line – and hopefully that will be Roscommon.”

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

SportsPeople

Pictured is the Roscommon senior hurling team, management and officials following Roscommon’s victory over Monaghan in the Allianz Hurling League Division 3A Final last Saturday. Pic: Sportsfile/Roscommon GAA

Unbeaten hurlers win Division 3A Final in style < ROBERT MCCONN

Two-goal Egan inspires win

Allianz National Hurling League Division 3A Final ROSCOMMON MONAGHAN

4-15 0-7

finished their league campaign in style by winning the Division 3A League Final against Monaghan on Saturday last. The Rossies were comfortable winners on a scoreline of 4-15 to 0-7 in a match played in difficult oscommon

From one Rossie to another: Connacht GAA president and proud Roscommon native, Mick Rock, presents the Allianz Division 3A League trophy to senior hurling captain, Michael Kelly in Ballyshannon last Saturday.

conditions at Fr. Tierney Park, Ballyshannon. At the start of the match the strong wind was blowing across the pitch and it made for difficult conditions for the players on both sides. Roscommon had a dream start with a goal from Adrian Murphy in the first minute after a great move involving full-forward Ronan O’Meara. Murphy pointed five minutes later and Cillian Egan fired over a point two minutes after that. Jerry Fallon scored frees on ten and eleven minutes respectively. Roscommon were firmly in control at this stage with the score being 1-4 to 0-2. After fifteen minutes the strong wind changed around to assist Monaghan. This was the Farney county’s best period and they scored four points without reply. The halftime score was 1-4 to 0-6 in favour of Roscommon. Conditions got even worse during half-time and Roscommon took to the field for the second half with a gale at their backs. Roscommon took control of the secondhalf exchanges from the throw-in with points from Michael Kelly, Cillian Egan, Tomas Seale and Ronan O’Meara.

Then in the 50th minute Cillian Egan scored an opportunist goal for Roscommon. Three minutes later Egan struck again when he found the Monaghan net to end this game as a contest. Roscommon continued to score at will with points from Naos Connaughton, Jerry Fallon and Michael Kelly. Monaghan’s bad day got worse when their best player, Stephen Lambe, was sent off for a second yellow card offence. The Rossies finished on a high with a great goal from Chris Duignan who pulled on a ball which came in high from out the field. This goal was so impressive that his teammates dubbed him ‘John Fenton’, a reference to the Cork man that scored that famous goal so many years ago. It was very much Roscommon’s day, with the final score being 4-15 to 0-7. Best for Roscommon were Cillian Egan, Michael Kelly, Shane Curley, Ronan O’Meara, Noel Fallon and Adrian Murphy. Roscommon: Noel Fallon; Ian Delaney, Peter Kellehan, Ciaran Shaw; Shane Curley, Michael Kelly (0-3), Warren Boyle; Alan Moore, Cathal Dolan; To-

Cillian Egan…scored 2-2 for the Roscommon senior hurlers in their league title win at the weekend. Pic: Andrew Fox

mas Seale (0-2), Eamon Flanagan, Jerry Fallon (06, 4 frees); Cillian Egan (2-2), Ronan O’Meara (0-1), Adrian Murphy (1-0). Subs: Liam Kilcline for Delaney, Naos Connaughton (0-1) for O’Meara, Hugh Rooney for Flanagan, Geraoid

Egan, Chris Duignan (10) for Moore. Note: Roscommon now await the clash between Donegal and Wicklow this Saturday. Roscommon will play the losers of that game to decide who will go to Division 2B for next season.

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

Allianz National Football League Division One: Mayo 1-11 Roscommon 1-7

‘Mayo are ﬁve years at the top – we’re at stage one’ < SEAMUS DUKE

Fergal O’Donnell pictured with his counterpart Stephen Rochford at the full-time whistle. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon manager Fergal O’Donnell took heart from the team’s strong finish and, while accepting that home supporters will have been disappointed with the outcome, pointed out that Mayo are “much stronger” than what is a developing Roscommon team. “It was a disappointing day for us overall but we were 1-10 to 0-4 down at one stage and we responded well. We played well towards the end of the game. We gave the ball away too much, to be honest. There was only four points in it at the finish but the better team won. Conditions were tough and Mayo are a much stronger team. They oint

TIME ADDED ON… Talking Point DREADFUL CONDITIONS: Mayo came looking for the two league points and they were certainly worth their win. However the big talking point was the dreadful conditions. It was touch and go whether the game went ahead at all. The Dublin match, scheduled for this Sunday, is now in some doubt, although the decision taken midweek to switch the Connacht U-21 final to Sligo should enhance the prospects of the Hyde hosting the Dubs. In any event, with Hyde Park set to be closed in July for at least 12 months, it is likely that Roscommon supporters will have to dig deep to see their team play over the next two years, which is a very sad state of affairs.

are that we don’t have lads as physically as strong as the Mayo lads. We are at stage one of our development whereas the Mayo lads have five years behind them at the very top. “It wasn’t pretty out there but you have to be realistic. Look at Donegal, they won their first three games and then lost their last three. You are not going to win all your games in this division, it’s as simple as that. “Next week’s game against Dublin is a new challenge. We will take a look at it in more detail this week and evaluate what we need to do” O’Donnell said, confirming that the senior management won’t be using the Roscommon U-21 players, who face a provincial final this weekend.

THE PEOPLE’S PUNDIT Frankie Dolan (Former Roscommon star) ‘There was no real intensity to Roscommon’s play and maybe it was because we knew that we were safe in Division One. Mayo had to win and they were far more up for the game as far as I could see. ‘The pitch was a factor too. It was brutal, to be honest, and it suited Mayo far better than Roscommon because they are a big physical team and our team needs a hard, fast pitch to play on. ‘Only God himself knows what Dr Hyde Park will be like if the Dublin match is played there next Sunday. It’s in a terrible state. ‘But if anyone said before the league started that Roscommon would be safe in Division One and in a semifinal with two rounds to go we would be very happy and there is no doubt that Roscommon are going in the right direction. ‘However one area that needs to be sorted out is midfield. We have to get an established pairing there for the championship. But this defeat is not the end of the world.’

This Time Last Year Roscommon 1-10 Galway 1-14 (National League Division 2 Round 6) – at Dr Hyde Park

Next on the List Round 7 v Dublin this weekend. Fixed for Dr. Hyde Park – but that could change!

Media View ‘Early in the second half in Roscommon’s on-again, off-again home in Hyde Park, the unthinkable looks like a distinct possibility now. Roscommon are losing. ‘Relegation zone scrappers Mayo lead 1-8 to 0-4. Roscommon, who scored 4-25 against Cork in Pairc Ui Rinn mustered 0-3 at home to Mayo in a half of football. The unsexy looking scoreline is largely attributable to the state of the Hyde Park pitch, which was pockmarked with puddles before throw-in. The surface survived a pre-match pitch inspection and went ahead. ‘It is Roscommon’s first League game at Hyde Park this year. Previous ‘home’ games have been played in Longford and Kiltoom (a proper home game in fairness). ‘Unsurprisingly, Mayo supporters are very satisfied with the way the game progressed, with some chiding the Rossies for believing their own hype and another confidently predicting that any championship match-up would likely go the same way.’ – (Balls.ie)

are longer on the road than we are and the conditions would have suited them far better than us.” While O’Donnell was not in the business of making excuses for Roscommon’s defeat, he did point to the injury blows suffered in the hours leading up to throwin. “We lost three players on Saturday – Cian Connolly, Senan Kilbride and Niall Daly – and we are already a number of players down. We didn’t want to use the U-21s if we could at all. Mayo have a strong panel and that was shown today. “While we are disappointed with some aspects of our performance, we didn’t fall away at all at the end. We battled away. It’s disappointing for the supporters but the facts

Talk of the terrace Clodagh King and Shannon Quigley pictured in Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday. Picture: Andrew Fox

Mayo fan: What kind of a feckin wind is that? (The weather had us all bemused at the Hyde.)

The big match on Tweet Street

Mayo fan: Ah ref he has his jersey!

Roscommon Pubspy @RoscommonPubspy Saying a novena at Dr. Hyde Park #HonTheRossies (The pubs were empty come 3.30 last Sunday.)

Roscommon fan: Shure who’d want a Mayo jersey? (Roscommon staged a brutal and decisive comeback... at least off the pitch!)

Pat Magee @pdiddler4 @RoscommonGAA dose of reality from the true connacht footballers...

haha. (The relegation candidates were a bit happier last weekend.) Marty Morrissey @MartyM_RTE Really enjoyed a tough hard game in Roscommon. Mayo won by 4 but Rossies showed a lot of heart! Great goal by Evan Regan...player to watch! (Marty enjoyed his day out in Roscommon.)

Roscommon fan: She’s a grand haircut now. Some scissors! (Some fans found distractions off the pitch as the waterlogged action continued on it.) – Overheard by Dan Dooner

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

Allianz National Football League Division One: Mayo 1-11 Roscommon 1-7

Mayo save their In dire conditions, physically superior Mayo take a giant leap towards safety VERDICT Seamus Duke

Seamus O’Shea evades the incoming challenge of Enda Smith. Picture: Andrew Fox

oscommon’s

incredible run in Division One probably had to come to a halt at some stage, and that happened in no uncertain fashion at Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday when they were deservedly beaten by a physically superior Mayo side in what was a very poor game played in brutal conditions. Stephen Rochford’s side came to Roscommon to get the two league points to avoid a relegation scrap and they did that with

the minimum of fuss. In fact they will wonder this week how there were only four points in the game at the final whistle as they were by far the best side throughout. Interest in the game amongst the national media was huge and all the major TV stations, radio stations and national newspapers were there in force. Indeed it has been interesting to read and listen to the reaction to the game this week. Some commentators are of the view that the

bog-like pitch did not help Roscommon, who are in the early stages of their development as a team. However others were scathing, and one ‘respected’ commentator described the efforts of Roscommon players as ‘pathetic’. However the same writer mixed up Senan and Ian Kilbride and had Ciaran Murtagh coming on as a sub and scoring a goal! There were a number of factors that led to Roscommon losing this game. Firstly, the Dr. Hyde Park pitch was barely playable and the really heavy conditions suited the more physical Mayo side, and Roscommon could never get a chance to play their fast-paced running and possession game. Secondly, Roscommon were totally beaten at midfield, where Seamie O’Shea and Tom Parsons ruled the roost. Roscommon lost the first seven kick-outs and the Roscommon attack, so prolific in previous games, was starved of possession. Thirdly, Mayo had to win this

game or they were facing the prospect of relegation, and while Roscommon battled away, the visitors were clearly very much ‘up’ for the game. Finally, the Roscommon team management decided not to risk starting any of the U-21 players and when Senan Kilbride, Cian Connolly and Niall Daly were all ruled out through injury, the squad was threadbare. On the positive side, Roscommon refused to give in. In previous years, Mayo would have pulled away and inflicted a heavy defeat on Roscommon, but the home side refused to lie down and they finished both halves well. The introduction of Diarmuid Murtagh, Sean Mullooly and Cathal Compton in the final quarter strengthened Roscommon’s challenge and that augurs well for later in the year. Geoffrey Claffey had a great game between the posts, making some brilliant saves in the first half. Davy Murray battled away all through and put

Rossies always against Regan KEY MOMENTS Seamus Duke

John McManus manages to retain possession as he goes to ground under the challenge of Tom Parsons. Picture: Andrew Fox

Torrential rain and hail showers meant that the game was in doubt up to an hour beforehand and as the ball was thrown in there was surface water in several areas of the Dr. Hyde Park pitch. There was a huge crowd in attendance as these two old rivals went head to head. In truth it was not a great game as Mayo assumed control from the first exchanges and Roscommon were always on the back foot. With the strong wind at their backs Mayo had two points on the board within four minutes. First, Evan Regan (who had a great game) pointed from 25 metres after a mazy run in the 2nd minute and two minutes later Rob Hennelly fired over a ’45 after Geoffrey Claffey had made a great block. Mayo

were totally on top but their shooting was very poor and they shot 10 wides in that first half. In the 11th minute Conor O’Shea pointed from play and we had 12 scoreless minutes until Alan Freeman’s free put Mayo four points ahead. In the 24th minute Roscommon managed their first point when Conor Devaney played a one-two with Enda Smith and pointed from close range. But it was brief respite. Rob Hennelly kicked another ’45 in the 28th minute and Geoffrey Claffey made two super saves to keep Roscommon in the contest. In the 30th minute Ciaran Murtagh kicked a 30-metre free to narrow the gap, but that score was cancelled out by another Freeman free in the 30th

minute. However two Ciaran Murtagh points (one a free) for Roscommon in first-half injury-time meant that Mayo went in leading at the break by only two points (0-6 to 0-4). Given their dominance, it was a worry for Mayo that, even at the halfway mark, the victory was not secured. However any notion that Roscommon might enjoy a revival with the aid of the wind in the second period was well and truly squashed when Mayo rattled off 1-4 without reply in the third quarter. Alan Freeman’s pointed free in the 36th minute was followed two minutes later by the goal that settled the contest. Evan Regan won possession and scooted around Seanie McDermott before planting the ball past Geoffrey Claffey. Further points from Regan (two frees) and sub Patrick Durcan

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

Allianz National Football League Division One: Mayo 1-11 Roscommon 1-7

‘Hyde’ in mudbath in a huge shift. Ciaran Murtagh was always lively, despite the attack being starved of possession for most of the game. While it was right that no one was getting carried away with the four recent Roscommon wins, it is also right that no one should get carried away with this defeat. The facts are that Mayo are still one of the top four teams in the country and that this Roscommon team are very much at the beginning of their development. Last Sunday’s defeat is all part of the learning curve. But Roscommon have got to solve the midfield conundrum as soon as possible if they are to challenge the likes of Mayo in the really big games. Despite the views of some commentators, last Sunday’s defeat is not the end of the world, nor is it a ‘reality check’. I never got the sense that any Roscommon player or any of the management team were getting carried away, even when the wins were coming week after week. Roscommon

are going in the right direction. It’s not going to happen immediately. This weekend we have the Connacht U-21 Football Final against Mayo – which will be a huge game for the Rossies – and then we have a glamour fixture against Dublin on Sunday. However, given the state of Dr. Hyde Park last Sunday, there is some doubt about the Division One game. As I write, on Tuesday, it has been confirmed

that the U-21 game is being switched to Sligo. Hopefully this measure, which unfortunately had to be made, will ensure that Hyde Park will be able to host the Dublin game. It was fantastic to see over 12,000 people in Hyde Park last Sunday but the decision to allow the game to go ahead was a marginal one and we are now the only GAA county in the country without a pitch to play on. It’s a total shambles.

Stat Attack Wides: Roscommon 3 (none in first half); Mayo 11 (10 in first half) Frees Awarded: Roscommon 20 (11 in first half); Mayo 31 (14 in first half) Yellow Cards: Roscommon 3 (Cathal Cregg, Neil Collins, Seanie McDermott); Mayo 3 (Lee Keegan, Diarmuid O’Connor, Alan Dillon) Black Cards: Roscommon none; Mayo 1 (Alan Freeman 57) Red Cards: None Man of the Match: Evan Regan (Mayo) Attendance 12,173

on back foot inspired Mayo saw Mayo lead by 1-10 to 0-4 – and it was game over. In fairness to Roscommon they never gave up and the arrival of three of their U-21 stars, Cathal Compton, Diarmuid Murtagh and Sean Mullooly, improved their lot considerably. Fintan Cregg grabbed Roscommon’s first point of the second half in the 58th minute and with ten minutes to go Diarmuid Murtagh scored a fantastic goal. He grabbed Enda Smith’s great pass and fired home low and hard on the turn. Further points from Conor Devaney and a beauty from Diarmuid Murtagh left only three points in it with three minutes left, but Mayo steadied the ship again in the 73rd minute when sub Cillian O’Connor pointed a difficult free to give his side a four-point win. Given the balance of play,

it could have been at least double that margin. So next it’s All-Ireland champions Dublin this coming weekend in the final round of league games of the campaign (the semi-finals will follow). The U-21s won’t be involved this weekend, so it will be a huge challenge again for Roscommon. On Sunday evening we will know who we will be facing in the semi-final. It’s all part of the learning curve. On Sunday last we had no complaints at all – the better team won by a wide margin. Beidh la eile! Mayo: Rob Hennelly (0-2, 2 ‘45s); Brendan Harrison, Ger Cafferkey, Chris Barrett; Colm Boyle, Lee Keegan, Donal Vaughan; Tom Parsons, Seamie O’Shea; Diarmuid O’Connor, Aidan O’Shea, Jason Doherty; Evan Regan (1-3, 2 frees), Alan Freeman

(0-3, all frees), Conor O’Shea (0-1). Subs: Patrick Durcan (0-1) for Vaughan (h/t), Stephen Coen for Cafferky (45), Cillian O’Connor (0-1, free) for C O’Shea (52), Alan Dillon for Freeman (57 black card), Declan Drake for D O’Connor (61), Jason Gibbons for Doherty (63). Roscommon: Geoffrey Claffey; Seanie McDermott, Neil Collins, Niall McInerney; John McManus, Seanie Purcell, Davy Murray; Fintan Cregg (0-1, free), Ian Kilbride; Conor Daly, Ciaran Murtagh (0-3, 2 frees), Conor Devaney (0-2); Niall Kilroy, Enda Smith, Cathal Cregg. Subs: Sean Mullooly for McManus (57), Diarmuid Murtagh (1-1) for C Daly (59), Ronan Daly for Devaney (63), James McDermott for Smith (66). Referee: Maurice Deegan (Laois).

Fintan Cregg puts Tom Parsons under pressure. Picture: Andrew Fox

Semi-ﬁnal permutations With just one round of fixtures to go in the Allianz football league, there is plenty left to play for across the four tiers. Only Dublin are certain of their place in the Division 1 semi-finals, while Donegal, Cork, Mayo and Monaghan are in a dogfight to avoid relegation. Promotion and relegation are also up for grabs across the other divisions when the final round of fixtures take place this weekend. It’s important to remember that head-to-head comes into play if two teams finish on the same

points, while scoring difference decides it if three or more teams are level. Dublin are assured of a semi-final spot, while Kerry and Roscommon’s superior points difference means they are likely to join them. Only a heavy defeat for either side on Sunday would see them drop out of the final four. One of Donegal, Cork, Mayo or Monaghan are likely to make up the semi-finals. Donegal and Cork are in pole position on six points. Peader Healy’s side, who travel to

Seamus O’Shea evades the tackle of Conor Devaney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Kerry, need to better Donegal’s result away to Monaghan to advance. If both teams win or draw, Donegal advance on head-to-head. Bottom of the table Down are already relegated. Mayo and Monaghan (both on 4pts) are favourites to get demoted, but Mayo have an easier game at home to Down. If Monaghan better Mayo’s result, the Connacht side will go down. If both teams win, scoring difference will come into play. (Courtesy of The 42.ie)

SportsPeople

Roscommon People Friday 01 April 2016

Sligo-bound U-21s’ in three-in-a-row bid: Pages 42/43

Availability of Hyde Park in the balance as Dubs due ‘Worst pitch I’ve played on’ – O’Shea < DAN DOONER

With the Eirgrid U-21 Connacht Championship Final moved from Dr. Hyde Park to Markievicz Park in Sligo this Saturday and Mayo star, Aidan O’Shea, describing the Roscommon venue as the worst pitch he has ever played on, doubts about the pitch’s availability remain ahead of Roscommon’s Allianz Division One clash with Dublin this Sunday. The Roscommon town venue has had its fair share of problems this year with previous games against Monaghan and Down moved to alternative venues. The loss of a potential ‘glamour tie’ against the All-Ireland champions would be another huge blow to the town’s economy. Mayo star Aidan O’Shea echoed the sentiments of many spectators at last Sunday’s game when he told People Sport: “Conditions were crazy, to be honest. I never played on any pitch as bad as that one.” Roscommon GAA PRO, Hugh Lynn insisted that every effort is being made to ensure that the game will proceed at Dr. Hyde Park.

“Roscommon GAA expect to play in the Hyde and we want to play there on Sunday. This game is against the All-Ireland and National Football League champions – the best team in the land –and every effort is being made to stage the game there. As it stands, the game is going ahead in the Hyde.” Roscommon County Board Chairman, Seamus Sweeney, had earlier stated: “We want to host the All-Ireland champions in Hyde Park. I’m confident that Peter Murray and his wonderful team will have the pitch playable for Sunday.” At the time of going to press, the weather would suggest differently however. While the Roscommon County Board and ground staff have worked tirelessly to repair the surface in time for Sunday, the weather hasn’t helped. With more rain forecast, the venue has very little time to recover in time to host the Dubs, and alternative venues will no doubt be considered. With Markievicz Park already scheduled to host the U-21 game on Saturday, Carrick-on-Shannon could well come into play.

Roscommon v Mayo last Sunday: A mud-splattered Seanie Purcell halts the progress of a mud-splattered Colm Boyle. Picture: Andrew Fox

Hold the back page: A Dub’s timely guide to Roscommon < DAN DOONER

Expectant: Our reporter Dan Dooner, who emigrated from Dublin to Lecarrow and is now a committed Rossie, is pictured – like the rest of us, not really knowing what to expect this weekend – at Hyde Park on Wednesday.

et’s face it; leav-

ing home can be a daunting experience, especially when visiting foreign and exotic parts of the world previously unheard of. Fear not, the Roscommon People are here to provide a travel guide for visitors to the town this weekend. Roscommon is situated just off the M6, somewhere between Kinnegad and Galway. The county’s main exports are sheep and Chris O’Dowd (the funny actor). According to most meteorological reports, Roscommon enjoys a temperate climate. This is absolute rubbish. There will prob-

ably be low temperatures with rainfall during your visit so wear warm and waterproof clothes. Wellies may also be useful if going anywhere near the Hyde Park pitch, so befriend a culchie between now and Sunday and bor-

evenings’ and offer to buy a pint. Hopefully there’ll be no follow-up questions. The people of Roscommon are extremely friendly so don’t be surprised by offers of lifts, drinks and invites to Sunday Dinner during your stay. Most

‘If confused about anything just smile politely, comment on ‘the grand stretch in the evenings’ and offer to buy a pint’ row a pair! According to many guidebooks, English is the most common language spoken in Roscommon. This is mostly true, I think. If confused about anything just smile politely, comment on ‘the grand stretch in the

pubs, shops and hotels in the town accept the euro so there’s no need to change currency before departing Dublin. The price of a drink and eating out is also much cheaper in Roscommon. There are plenty of restau-

rants and pubs in the area offering traditional Irish fare as well as more exotic dishes. Keep in mind that Coddle is called ‘stew’ and most takeaways stock battered sausages. Don’t be surprised if the Hyde Park pitch (if passed) resembles the National Aquatic Centre on Sunday. The ground might not be the best in the world but Roscommon supporters and officials are great craic and the team plays an entertaining and energetic brand of football. Enjoy your visit to the home of the sheep stealers and don’t be surprised if the Dubs face their toughest test so far in this year’s National Football League.