2016 04 08

EE

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

FR

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

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

FACES & PLACES

08 April 2016

SEE 31 – 34

The Local Paper

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02

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

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Roscommon Town Team 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 (this evening) 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.

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

Cyclist Personal Injury*

Art Classes in Kilteevan Cora Mugan continues her Art Classes in Kilteevan Community Centre every Monday night from 8pm. Cora will guide participants through working with acrylic paints and the best tips to bring your paintings to life. Art classes are suited for all levels. For more information, contact Cora on 086 3365563.

I was cycling in my local town about a year ago when I was knocked off my bicycle by a passing car. He simply drove too close to me and his wing mirror clipped my handlebar causing me to fall to the ground. I went to my GP who prescribed painkillers for me. Unfortunately I have been left with lingering pain in my shoulder and I am now attending a physiotherapist for physiotherapy which is giving me some pain relief. My friend advised me to talk to my solicitor but I feel that it is too late to now consider looking for compensation for my injuries. Please advise me.

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Roscommon fan Lee Taylor pictured in Carrick-on-Shannon on Sunday. Picture: Andrew Fox

Increase in sex offences in region, burglaries down LATEST CRIME STATS REVEALED < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

There was a 35 percent increase in the number of sexual offences, including rapes and sexual assaults, recorded in the Roscommon/Longford Garda Division last year, newly-released statistics suggest.

According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO), there were 53 such offences recorded in the divisional area last year, up from a total of 39 in 2014.

There was a slight increase in the number of drink-driving offences in the same timeframe, from 146 to 147.

There was an increase in the number of cases involving drugs being used for personal use, with 154 offences in 2015, compared to 149 the previous year.

However, the number of offences involving drugs being used for sale and supply decreased from 43 to 31 in the same two-year period.

The amount of burglaries in the division reduced by 12 per cent last year, the CSO’s data suggests, with a reduction from 422 to 377.

In Co. Roscommon, burglaries were highest in the area served by Roscommon Garda Station, with 33 in 2015, followed by Ballaghaderreen (25), Boyle (24), Castlerea (17), Rooskey (16), Frenchpark (15), Elphin (nine), Strokestown (seven) and Taughmaconnell (one).

These figures relate to reported crime, so burglaries that are not reported to Garda stations are not included.

The law determining the time limits in which one may claim compensation for injuries following an accident is called the Statute of Limitations. One normally has two years from the date of accident to bring a compensation claim for personal injuries.

This differs in the case of an injured child in that ‘limitation period’ does not start to run until the child reaches eighteen years old i.e. a child may bring a claim for injuries sustained as a child up until their 20th birthday.

If you believe that your injuries were sustained as a result of the fault of another person contact Byrne Carolan Cunningham Litigation Department who will fully advise you of your rights. It is imperative that you do so without delay.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors are Members of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers.

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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03

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

Funeral on Saturday of Kiltoom cyclist who died in Belgium < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Pat Coyle, 56, who was a long-standing member of Shannonside Cycling Club (CC) in Athlone

The funeral Mass of a popular cycling enthusiast from Kiltoom who died suddenly in Belgium last weekend will take place on Saturday.

Pat Coyle, 56, a long-standing member of Shannonside Cycling Club (CC) in Athlone, died after collapsing while taking part in the Tour of Flanders Sportive event last Saturday afternoon.

Mr. Coyle, who was cycling alongside his 29-year-old son, was climbing the Oude Kwaremont, a famous hill on the course. At that point, he had covered more than 100 km and was around 20 km from the finish.

Medical teams came to his aid, but were unable to save him.

The tragedy has plunged people in south Roscommon into mourning.

A large attendance is expected at his funeral on Saturday in the Church of the Risen Christ, Kiltoom.

The Mass will take place at 1 pm, with burial following in Kiltoom Cemetery afterwards.

The late Pat Coyle is mourned by his wife Angela, three sons, further family members and a wide circle of friends.

Mr. Coyle was well-known in Kiltoom and worked for the ESB in Athlone.

In a statement, Cycling Ireland

said: “We would like to extend our condolences to the family of Pat Coyle of Shannonside Cycling Club, who died at the Tour of Flanders Sportive in Belgium following a heart attack.

“The tragedy occurred during the 227 km event that attracts 16,000 riders and is in its 25 year, an event in which he had participated many times.

“Mr. Coyle had been an active member of the Shannonside CC, particularly committed to the development of the club, having been a key organiser in events like the Operation Transformation cycle in Athlone in 2015.”

Rainbow Rooms in Athlone to receive new library Rainbow Rooms Autism Unit, (a support service for children with autism) located in Summerhill National School, Athlone, is set to receive a new library worth €1,500 through the Bord Gáis Energy Donate a Library programme.

As part of the initiative, Bord Gáis Energy pledged to donate seven libraries to local charity and community groups throughout Ireland in 2016. Hundreds of nominations were received from all over the country and, after much deliberation by the judges, Rainbow Rooms Autism

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Gardaí in warning after theft in Forest Park < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Castlerea Gardaí have warned people to be vigilant about leaving valuables in unattended cars after a theft in Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle, last Sunday.

Shortly after 5 pm, a handbag containing a variety of items, with a total value of around €300, was robbed from a car while the owners went for a walk.

As a result, a spokesman for Castlerea Garda Station has urged caution at all amenity areas throughout the county.

“If you have to leave valuables in your car when it’s unattended, make sure they are out of sight and it is done so before arriving where you park,” he said.

“Do not to park at a location and start hiding them under seats because, if somebody is there with the intention of robbing, you can be sure that somebody is there watching people coming and going.”

Unit has been confirmed as one of the recipients.

The judging panel included celebrity campaign ambassador Lisa Duffy, Gert Ackerman from charity advocacy group The Wheel and TV3 Ireland AM presenter, Sinead Desmond.

Pictured is Principal Tracy O’Raghallaigh of Summerhill National School receiving a plaque for the new library from Sean Copeland of Bord Gáis Energy and parent Sharon Benny (right). Picture: Gerard O’Loughlin

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople Gardaí in appeal over ‘white van’ in north Roscommon MAIN STREET, ATHLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON TELEPHONE: 090 66 63867

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< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Gardaí have appealed for information on a white van that was used as a getaway vehicle for recent thefts in north Roscommon/south Sligo.

The first incident occurred on Easter Monday when five valuable cattle were robbed from a farm at Moygara, Gurteen.

The white van was seen fleeing the scene, and there were reports of a similar vehicle acting suspiciously in the area in the fol-

Ploughing finals to be held on April 23

lowing days.

Then, on Tuesday of this week, a cattle trailer was stolen from a farm at Ardcolagh, Ballinameen, near Boyle, at 3.40 pm.

The farmer in question “heard voices near the cattle” shed, Gardaí said, and a white van fled in the direct of Ballinameen.

A Garda spokesman said: “We would asked anyone with any information in relation to the occupants of a white van in the south Sligo/north Roscommon area to contact their local station.”

The Roscommon Ploughing Championships, which were called off because of bad weather, have been rearranged for Saturday, April 23.

The 21st edition of the event was due to take place on April 3 at James and Eleanor Coffey’s farm at Lecarrow, south Roscommon.

On Wednesday afternoon, Tim Foxe, the chairman of the Roscommon Ploughing Association, said: “Provisionally, they will go ahead on April 23.”

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Pictured at the launch of Darkness Into Light were members of Darkness Into Light Ballaghaderreen. Picture: Andrew Fox

‘No one to tend his garden now’

nch of u la s e s s re d d a Harding ht’ walks ig L to In s s e n rk ‘Da

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Michael Harding, the renowned playwright and novelist, revealed his personal struggles with depression during the launch of the local Darkness Into Light (DIL) events in the Bush Hotel, Carrick-onShannon, last Friday.

For the past eight years, these events have been staged throughout the world. They are unique early-morning experiences that begin in darkness as thousands of people walk or run a 5 km route while dawn is breaking.

Last year’s event attracted over 100,000 participants in more than 80 locations across Ireland and abroad.

This year, locally, such events will be staged in Carrick-on-Shannon, Ballaghaderreen, Roscommon town, Sligo town, and Banada Abbey, near Tubbercurry, at 4.15 am on Saturday, May 7.

People will remember those who have died by suicide, while vital funds raised are for Pieta House, the suicide and self-harm prevention crisis centre.

In launching the event

in Carrick, Mr. Harding, who lives in Arigna, near Boyle, said: “I had a bad time with depression five years ago, but I have had it since, and I now realise I can live with it.

“There is a time when I am going to get really, really down, and there is a time when people around me will know that I am ‘not in the best of form.’”

Mr. Harding, from Cavan, said that there were many signs of depression – such as difficulties with sleep – and that the illness could be triggered by relationship difficulties or workrelated stress, among other factors.

For him, it manifested itself in a lack of positivity, he said.

“One of the things that I have understood about depression in myself is that it’s about being negative about yourself,” he said.

“For me, depression was when the negative voices in my head take over completely.

“You are immobile, can’t make a cup of tea, can’t talk to anybody, can’t lift the phone because you feel everything you are doing is wrong.”

Devastating consequences can result from this ‘voice in your head’, Mr. Harding said.

“The tragedy is that that voice can sometimes push you over a cliff or into a river, or somewhere else, where there is no coming back,” he added.

He recounted a harrowing story of a man at Arigna who took his own life.

He remembered seeing the “beautiful, quiet man” tending to his cattle in north Roscommon for more two decades. His

tragic death, Mr. Harding lamented, had left a gaping void in the area.

“For 25 years coming up the hills of Arigna, you would pass his house and you would always see the light on,” he said. “You would know that he was in there reading or content with himself.

“The reality is – and the unbearable pain there is for people – is that there is no one to tend to his garden now. His cattle are gone.

“When I came up that hill last winter at Christmas,

when there used to be always a light in the window, there is no light now.”

He said, in a similar fashion, ‘lights are going out’ at various houses countrywide.

Pieta House, the suicide and self-harm crisis centre, was showing people that there was another way, bringing them “from darkness into the light”, he said.

Online registration and further details on DIL are available at www.darknessintolight.ie

Pictured at the launch of Darkness Into Light were Supt. Kevin English, Joan Freeman, Tom McEvoy, Kevin Molloy, Donna Burke, Michael Harding and Eleanor Shanley. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

Dumping of dead animals: several reports throughout county

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In the south of the county, there was a report of a “dead calf in a meal bag” on the old Ballinasloe to Athlone road.

Complaints of dumping of dead sheep were also reported.

On February 10, it was reported that there was a “dead sheep in a stream” in the Roscommon town area. Six days later, it was claimed that two dead ewes had been dumped in a bog road near Curraghboy, south Roscommon.

New Sergeant assigned to Elphin A new Garda Sergeant has been assigned to cover Elphin after the town’s Garda Station reopened recently.

On March 15, Sergeant Tommy Reilly was designated to join Garda Pat O’Grady in covering the north Roscommon town. Previously, Garda O’Grady covered the area on his own.

It is the latest development in Garda resources in Elphin, which was without a Garda station from

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 ––

Flashback…to last week’s dumping of 29 dead animals in Kilteevan Bog.

Pictured at the recent Ballintubber St. Patrick’s Day Parade were Olivia, John and Liam Walsh. Picture: Andrew Fox

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Family Care

Castle Stre

at

––––––––––

Last week the Roscommon People reported on the shocking discovery of the dumping of 29 dead animals in Kilteevan bog, a crime that remains under investigation.

Now we can reveal that Roscommon County Council has received multiple complaints of dead animals, especially horses, being dumped in the countryside.

According to documents released under the Freedom of Information Act –and relating only to February of this year – the remains of horses, sheeps and calves were blotting the landscape in Co. Roscommon, leading to serious environmental concerns.

On February 4, the council received a complaint from a man in Boyle who “rang to say that his neighbour has buried dead horses in the past.” He said that he was afraid to drink from his well and had joined a group water scheme.

On February 22, a complaint was received of a “dead horse in a land drain” along the Frenchpark to Ballinameen road, while, on February 8, a dead horse was reported to be on a road in the Castlerea area.

Elsewhere, there were reports of a dead calf in a drain at Granlahan, near Castlerea, on February 22, and a similar complaint four days later.

–––––––––– ––

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

May 2014 to November 2015, to much opposition.

That gap was caused by a new station having to be built after the lease expired on the old building, owned by the Office of Public Works.

The latest development, involving Sgt. Reilly’s arrival, has been welcomed by local Independent councillor Valerie Byrne.

“Everyone likes to have a Garda station in their area. To see guards out and about leaves people feeling more secure,” she said.

Car broken into at Roscommon park In what Gardaí said was a rare incident for Roscommon town, a car was broken into during daylight at Loughnaneane Park last week. The owners of the a 2012registered silver Toyota were visiting the park between 2.30 pm and 3.45 pm on Wednesday, March 30. When they returned, they discovered that the passenger

window had been smashed and personal documents and keys robbed. The car was parked at the Lough Road, near the entrance to the park.

Anyone with information in relation to the incident has been asked to contact Roscommon Garda Station on 0906638300.

06

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

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Roscommon Courthouse.

Courts Service in discussions over courthouse purchase < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The Courts Service are in discussions with Roscommon County Council about buying their section of the courthouse in the county town.

Since the council moved into their new Civic Headquarters last December, the section of the building that they own became surplus to requirements.

The courthouse â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one of the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s landmark buildings, built in 1832 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; is jointly owned by the local authority and the Courts Service.

A Courts Service spokesman confirmed that it

was in â&#x20AC;&#x153;ongoing discussions with the council regarding the space in the courthouse in Roscommonâ&#x20AC;?. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have engaged an outside person to independently evaluate the value of the various spaces in the building, with a view to aiding our discussions,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Court sittings are held in the courthouse, but the building is in poor condition. If the Courts Serviceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s negotiations with the council conclude satisfactorily, they will to redevelop the courthouse.

Otherwise, a new courthouse on a new site will be developed, they said.

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

07

08

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

World class dancing with O’Neill Geraghty Emma Mannion from Ballybride in Co. Roscommon recently placed 3rd in the Irish Dancing World Championships, which took place in Glasgow.

Emma is a member of

the O’Neill Geraghty School of Irish Dancing which has studios at the Leisure Zone in Roscommon town, Williamstown in Galway, Leitrim and Dublin.

Registered with ‘AN COIMISIUN LE RINCE GAELACHA’ CLASSES HELD IN : Roscommon Town (Leisure Zone), Williamstown, Roosky, Gorvagh, Newntownforbes, Saggart (Dublin) ADULT CLASSES : Monday in Roscommon studio at 8.30pm

Fully Qualified Teachers/Adjudicator 35 years Experience Combined Award Winning School Jig Gig Finalists 2014 Classes for ages 3+ All Standards Contact: Brian Geraghty (086) 1937330 Tracy O’Neill (087) 6870316 bgeraghtydesigns@gmail.com

Emma brought home a coveted globe for the school and her fellow school members brought home a further eight world medals, making the school one of the highest ranked in the world.

Dancing at the school is taught by Brian Geraghty and Tracy O’Neill, whose services are in great demand all over Roscommon, Leitrim and an evergrowing Dublin hub.

The school took home its first globe three years ago when Dean Gallagher from Roscommon town led the way and set the standard for the following years.

Congratulations to Emma, Rose Michaela Cunniffee, Ciara Rose McKeown, Emily Keane, Shannon Flynn, Amy Blake, Shannon Owens, Eleanor McGweeney, Ailise McDowell, Hannah Cleverly and Tara Blake who performed outstandingly on the world stage to do themselves, their families

Portrun Development Association fundraiser The Portrun Development Association is holding a fundraiser night on Saturday, 16th April at Paddy Finn’s Bar in Kilteevan. This is an opportunity for all the residents and people in the locality to come along and meet their neighbours while promoting

community spirit. Funds raised on the night will go towards community-based projects and maintenance in Portrun. There will be music, a raffle and refreshments on the night. Please come along and support.

A great night is guaranteed.

Pictured is Emma Mannion from Ballybride, Co. Roscommon who was placed 3rd in the world at the recent World Championships in Glasgow, held by the oldest and original Irish dancing organisation ‘An Coimisiun le Rince Gaelacha’.

and the O’Neill Geraghty School very proud .

For further information on classes contact Brian on 086-1937330 or Tracy on 087-6870316.

Pictured in The Hollywood, Roscommon were Nicole Waldowska and Arleta Makowska.

Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

Up to 50% off homeware at Burgess of Athlone Burgess of Athlone’s mid-season homeware offers kick off this week (beginning Monday, 4th April) and promises between 20% and 50% off quality homeware brands at Ireland’s longest-established department store. Exciting deals across a range of muchloved kitchenware and bedlinen brands including Judge, Stellar, LeCreuset, Vax and Sanderson are on offer.

With selected LeCreuset items half-price, it’s time to stock up on quality cookware for those summer events.

Serve up a variety of healthy nutritious food in Judge steamers in a range of sizes; 18cm steamer down from €113.99 to €54.95 (less than half-price).

Spring cleaning is made easy with the powerful yet versatile Pifco Handheld Steam Cleaner, which comes with a 3-year guarantee is now €29.95 (1/3 off).

For busy homes with children and pets who need reliable cleaning power, the Vax Flair Performance pet vacuum cleaner delivers at €84.95, down from €124.95.

Stellar five-piece saucepan set, which comes with a lifetime guarantee, is ideal for cooking enthusiasts, down from €389.95 to just €194.95 – a steal!

Rest easy with half-price memory foam pillows, now €32.50 and the Fine Bedding Company luxurious 13.5 tog cashmere touch duvet starting from €83.95 for a double.

Add some spring sunshine to a bedroom with fresh, new bed linen; Sanderson Amelia Rose duvet sets have 50% off while V&A Kashmir & Moresque duvet sets are just half-price.

Fox & Brooke Orchid Bouquet bedding starts from €37.95 for a single duvet set.

Don’t miss out, visit Burgess homeware mid-season promotion today and see what offers inspire you! For further information: Carole Green, The Marketing Department carole@themarketingdepartment.ie or call 090 6450611.

(Advertorial)

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Advertorial -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

St. John’s Montessori Pre-school Open Day St. John’s Montessori Pre-school & Afterschool service in Lecarrow is hosting an Open Day on Saturday, April 9th from 12 pm to 2 pm.

The purpose-built facility is situated on the grounds of St. John’s National School overlooking Lough Ree in the beautiful harbour village of Lecarrow.

Our staff are highly qualified with diplomas in Montessori, Special Needs Education, Childcare and First Aid. Complete with a playground and organic vegetable garden, St. John’s Montessori Pre-school is the perfect place for your child to learn and grow.

Call in and talk to a member of our Childcare team or call 087-2654651 for more information.

Learn while you work National Learning Network’s Employer Based Training is a flexible training programme that helps you get practical work skills while training in a host company. If you have had an accident, illness or injury or if you have a disability and need extra support, this 12 month programme offers you the chance to get a QQI Level 4 or 5 qualification in Employment Skills.

This training programme is funded by the GRETB. Eligibility criteria apply.

Find out more at: 094 962 0374 castlerea@nln.ie nln.ie facebook.com/NLNIreland

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Paul Healy on nostalgic memories of the diminutive comedy giant Ronnie Corbett; in praise of the great John Giles and the great Bobby Charlton; heartbreak for Roscommon U-21s…and an interesting day following Roscommon to Carrick for their date with the Dubs…

Friday I hope the kids who met John Giles in Boyle on Friday (he attended the Boyle Enterprise Town Expo) have some inkling of the significance of it all. A year or two ago I had the huge pleasure of interviewing Giles over the phone. He is a Leeds United (and Ireland) great (I am fed up with over-use of the word ‘legend’) and, as a Leeds fan, I was thrilled to converse with this giant of the soccer world.

Giles lorded midfield with the equally magnificent Billy Bremner (now deceased) in the great Leeds United team of the 1970s. Any debate on what was the greatest British club side of all time ought to at least include reference to that Leeds team, which was managed

by Don Revie. It probably wasn’t the greatest club side of all time, but at its peak (check out footage on Youtube of Leeds v Southampton, with a starring role by Giles) that Leeds team was one of the best to ever grace the English game. Players like Eddie Gray, Peter Lorimer, Terry Cooper, Giles, Bremner, Jack Charlton and Allan Clarke will live long in the memory.

Can I say, while on the subject of soccer and stars of the past, that I was touched by the scenes from Old Trafford on Sunday when the wonderful Bobby Charlton was honoured by having a spectator stand named after him.

As a Leeds fan, I have no hesitation in acknowledging greats who graced the game for the other United (Manchester). Not only was Bobby Charlton a truly great player, he was and is an absolute gentleman and a magnificent, humble and dignified ambassador for the game. It was touching to see how emotional this uniquely modest giant was when the stand now named in his honour was unveiled. He is perhaps the outstanding figure in the history of English football.

Saturday Sometimes you just know it’s all going to go horribly wrong, don’t you?

When I joined the Shannonside coverage of the Connacht U-21 Final this evening, I got a pleasant surprise; Roscommon were 1-2 to no score in front after about five minutes.

I couldn’t make it to Sligo on Saturday evening, but now I could visualise beautiful

John Patrick O’Connor and Emma Connaughton pictured in Carrick-on-Shannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

passing movements by Roscommon…leaving Mayo players grasping at shadows.

When Willie said Roscommon had only won one of numerous Connacht U-21 Final appearances against Mayo, I didn’t see it as a hostage to fortune – more a prelude to a timely celebration.

When we missed an “open goal” before halftime, I was okay with it (sure we were all over them!) until Willie and analyst Frankie Dolan wondered aloud if the goal that never was would come back to haunt us.

I took a half-time break but was back for the dramatic second half. With about ten minutes to go Roscommon were two in front, then three. It was very nervy; we were standing on a tightrope – the three-in-a-row within reach but with the valley of broken dreams below us.

Never mind Willie – my own mind began to play games with me. ‘Stay where you are, stay in your comfortable chair and Roscommon will survive these agonising final minutes” a longwinded voice in my mind advised. But I couldn’t sit still as these marathon minutes prepared to torment us, rather like at the end of the Roscommon/Fermanagh senior qualifier last year. So, foolishly, I got up, and distracted myself, drawing the curtains and walking the tense walk of the tense fan listening to a tense radio commentary on a tense game. Goal! For Mayo! Willie told a horror story from Markievicz Park in the time it took me to draw the curtains. I sat down again, resigned to a single-point loss. But there was more toying with our emotions to come; gallant Roscommon equalised – and extra-time loomed.

Then Mayo scored again and yes, it was to be one of those horrible days after all.

It had been on the cards for a long time, we just had to be tortured before the outcome was confirmed.

Still, any time we lose by the narrowest margin,

and in a game of so many what ifs, we can console ourselves in the belief that fate will smile on us the next time…what happened in Sligo, after all, is sport’s way of reminding us all of its compelling greatness.

But it was agony on the airwaves.

Should have listened to Lyric Fm…(not really).

Sunday As the rain ruthlessly pelted down from the skies on Saturday evening, my heart sank and my thoughts were with the executive of Roscommon County Board – not to mention the Roscommon players and the business community.

By 9.30 or so on Sunday morning, the word came; no game in the Hyde and all roads lead to Carrick. Deep down, we had sensed throughout the week that this was how it would end. A mess.

In fairness to the proverbial powers-that-be, the weather was unforgiving. Whatever chance the Hyde had on Saturday evening – and God knows, the glamour fixture must have been in the balance – the skies scuppered it all once they began to weep on Saturday night. The match should have been called off at about 9 or 10 pm that night. It would have allowed the train-plotters in Dublin to plan a party instead of becoming cast members in a farce.

Me? I rounded up two of our kids and headed for Carrick at a dubiously late 1.10. I took the road to Rooskey. There is no better road. We got to within about two miles of Pairc Sean MacDiarmuida and, rightly or wrongly, abandoned vehicle. It’s a long time since I’ve walked that far to a match. Along the way, we were joined by delightful Dubs and bashful Rossies.

By the time we got into the ground, Roscommon were two points ahead. Frowns followed as the Dubs took a firm grip on proceedings. Roscommon began to perish on

the Rock called Dean. At half-time, we felt miserable. I had a first cousin from London in my company. He was born in the UK. I tentatively began to explain it all to him.

But, given our recently-acquired status as the emerging new force in the GAA, I felt a bit embarrassed by Roscommon’s first-half display.

The second half was magical. In poor conditions, against the All-Ireland champions – and with not an awful lot at stake – Roscommon were superb. There were some great scores, and some turnovers that could not have been achieved were it not for the massive heart and effort of these terrific young Roscommon footballers. It hardly mattered that we didn’t seal the draw we probably deserved. What mattered is what we saw.

I left Pairc Sean MacDiarmuida with a sense of great pride. My English cousin wanted to know if Roscommon are now realistic All-Ireland contenders. I answered with due diplomacy. I said something along the lines of ‘we have a long way to go…but we are one of the most promising young teams in the country – and at the moment we are moving into the top tier.’

The very long walk back to the car was the same distance as before, but less taxing now.

Rossies that we chatted to on that long road beamed the beam of loyal followers who are daring to dream. The Dublin supporters I encountered were lovely, great people.

It had been a chaotic day. In a bizarre way, it had epitomised much of the magic of the GAA. Real GAA people had risen, effortlessly enough, above the rain and the administrative mayhem. I loved the stories about Roscommon fans coming to the rescue of stranded ‘Dubs’ – offering them lifts from Roscommon to Carrick, sharing coffee, condemnation, and, truth be told, clichés. I was greatly impressed, but not surprised, by the utter decency and priceless good humour of ‘Dubs’ who, while certainly frustrated by the venue switch, took it on the chin and endeared themselves to their fellow gaels (us).

As we left the pitch, I knew that my English cousin was watching everything – and listening intently. A friend from Rooskey greeted me and said ‘great performance.’ I wondered what my cousin made of that. Then, as the cars slowly peeled away from Pairc Sean MacDiarmuida, fans from both counties began to stoop under a railing to move from the confines of the stadium grounds to the outer world. And I wondered what my Londonbased cousin made of that.

Then, on this lovely, peculiar day, I met a drifting fan with a brolly who said: ‘Paul, it’s probably no harm that we lost’ and, while I knew what he meant, I looked at my cousin from London – and his rain-splattered face – and I wondered what he really made of Roscommon v Dublin in Leitrim (via London).

I think he probably liked it. Sure what’s not to like?

Real talent…as opposed to some of that other lot!

Thursday For many of us of that dreaded ‘certain age’, the passing, all in the first quarter of 2016, of Terry Wogan, Paul Daniels and Ronnie Corbett, has brought us on a nostalgic ride on an imaginary showbiz train in our memories.

As we travel, in our minds, into an era now gone, we see the genial Wogan, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he brandishes his Blankety Blank wand in front of Kenny Everett (you had to be

there!); Daniels, staring into camera, effortlessly marrying his talent and the medium of television, wooing millions of viewers with his primetime magic; little Ronnie, sitting in his chair, making a trademark adjustment of his glasses as he joyously delivers another series of one-liners before a live audience and an adoring television audience.

Corbett slipped away today, aged 85, and there was a fitting outpouring of love for the smaller half of the legendary ‘Two Ronnies’ (Ronnie Barker,

a comedy genius, died in 2005).

As well as being gifted at what he did, it’s clear that Wogan was a gentleman and a gentle soul.

It was perhaps harder to warm to Paul Daniels, but he was undeniably superb at his craft and it was Daniels who brought magic from the townhalls into the living rooms of millions of people.

In latter years Ronnie Corbett maintained his national treasure status with regular television and film roles, including in the Ricky Gervais series, ‘Extras,’ and in

his heyday he starred in Sorry!, a simple but charming sit-com.

However it was his long-running association with Ronnie Barker in ‘The Two Ronnies’ that established the diminutive Corbett as a showbusiness giant. If you are familiar with ‘The Two Ronnies’ you know how great they were. If you aren’t, then enjoy discovering them.

There are reports in recent days of world leaders, politicians, sportstars, entertainers and business people being linked to offshore accounts

and possible crime and corruption.

In our own baliwick, our parliamentarians prevaricate, show a lack of leadership and exude an air of misguided self-importance.

Midst the greedy, the inflated egos and the over-rated, it’s nice to remember real talent…people who were a welcome distraction from the former types…people like Wogan, Daniels and Corbett, wonderful family entertainers who made us laugh and smile.

Thank God for the joy they brought into our lives.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople newsbriefs Knock support group for coping with cancer

New E-Class at Michael Moore next week Motorists awaiting the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class can set their clocks for April as plans for its arrival take shape.

Fitted with an array of standard specifications and high-tech features that puts it ahead of anything in the three-pointed-star stable and a leap ahead of its rivals in the luxury segment, it boasts what their sales manager in Ireland, Ciaran Allen, says is “a combination of stylish design, competitive pricing, standard specifications, high-tech safety and driving dynamics that redefine standards in the businessclass segment.”

Available in three style and equipment lines, Avantgarde, Exclusive, and AMG, it maintains what is Mercedes-Benz’s

established price value, whereby features that previously came only as options are now included as standard. Bringing this approach to what Ciaran Allen says is “a completely new level” – the entry level Avantgarde model will come decked with over €7,000 worth of standard features compared to the outgoing version.

Included in these will be Parktronic parking assist, heated front seats, full leather upholstery, reversing camera, LED static lights, satellite navigation, mirror pack, ambient lighting, storage pack, ‘through loading’ feature, seat comfort pack, alarm pack and a ‘connect me’ function.

Mirrored in their description of the E-Class as a ‘masterpiece of

intelligence’, Mercedes-Benz has set out to give owners an insight into what motoring will be like for future generations. Showcasing a number of features that electronics and mobile technology make possible – features that may well become standard issue in the future – the new E-Class moves the era of ‘autonomous motoring’ even closer.

One that every motorist will applaud (optional in all markets) is a feature that allows the car to be manoeuvred remotely via a mobile phone without the driver being inside – a development likely to appeal to all who ever found themselves hemmed in within a narrow parking space and unable to gain entry to their car.

This movement towards ‘autonomous driving’ is seen also in systems such as Remote Parking and Drive Pilot (also optional in all markets) that demonstrate its ability to travel on ‘auto pilot’ while essential functions – such as speed control, braking, acceleration, gear changing and an ability to anticipate hazards ahead and take whatever corrective action may be necessary –are all carried out automatically.

Join us for our new E-Class launch at Michael Moore Mercedes-Benz from the 14th16th of April to view and test-drive the new E-Class. Call one of our Mercedes-Benz sales team today for more information on 090 6403000.

Knock Counselling Centre will be hosting a 5-week course aimed at promoting self-care and emotional wellbeing for people affected by cancer.

The programme will be facilitated by Mary McDermott, cancer survivor and psychotherapist at the centre.

This programme will run over five consecutive Tuesday evenings from 6 pm to 7.30 pm starting on the 31st of May and priced at €50.

To book a place call Knock Counselling Centre on 094 9375032 or email counsellingteam@knockshrine.ie.

Women’s Network to host parenting course A free parenting course will take place in Roscommon Women’s Network, The Old Mill, Castlerea, for seven Wednesdays from April 13.

The event, which will run from 10 am to 12.30 pm, is for mothers and fathers with children aged up to six years.

The course will provide an opportunity to relax, chat and meet other parents while also learning some new parenting tips.

To book your place, contact 086-8099154.

Run, jog and walk with St. Anne’s St. Anne’s Primary School, Castlerea are hosting an annual 5k/10k run, walk or jog on Sunday, April 17th at 1 pm.

Participants can register between 11 am and 12.30 pm in the school grounds on the morning of the race.

Admission is €5 per child, €10 per adult and €20 per family. All proceeds will go towards St. Anne’s Primary School.

The new E-Class.

Masterpiece of Intelligence.

Test drive the new E-Class at our launch weekend, 14th - 16th April at Michael Moore Mercedes-Benz.

Included as standard:

Avantgarde Line Leather Upholstery Parktronic Heated Front Seats LED High Performance Lights Satellite Navigation Seat Comfort Pack Folding Mirrors Reversing Camera Dynamic Select

Remote Online

9 Speed Automatic

Active Brake Assist

Michael Moore Car Sales Ltd. Dublin Road, Athlone Tel: 090 6403000 Email: imoore@mmcs.ie W: www.michaelmooremercedes-benz.ie

Ambient Lighting

Driver Attention Assist

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople newsbriefs Annual Woodlands Run/Walk in Loughglynn The annual Woodlands 5k/10k Run/Walk will take place on Sunday, 1st May in Loughglynn.

Registration will take place from 11 am with the Run/Walk starting at 12.30 pm. This race is timed and certified.

Refreshments will be provided in Loughglynn Community Centre afterwards.

For further details contact Breege on 087-1268806 or Dympna on 086-0682109. All proceeds in aid of Loughglynn National School.

Learn to grow with Ardcarne Garden Centre A free vegetable growing event will be taking place at Ardcarne Garden Centre, this Saturday (9th April).

Join expert organic grower Klaus Laitenberger at 11 am (Ardcarne, Boyle) and 3 pm (Ardcarne Garden Centre, Roscommon town) and pick up some great tips on growing.

All welcome.

Line dancing classes in aid of Men’s Shed Line dancing classes are being held to raise money for Castlerea Men’s Shed. They will take place in Doherty’s Lounge, Castlerea on Mondays from 9 pm. Come along next this Monday (11th April) and step it out!

Run, walk or waddle for CROI in Elphin There will be a 6k run, walk or waddle this Sunday (April 10th) in Elphin, Co. Roscommon, starting from An Bóthar Rua at the new time of 1 pm.

Please note that the time has been changed due to the Roscommon match.

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 proceeds will go the CROÍ Heart and Stroke Charity, Galway. For further details contact Hazel Gunn on 086-8034350.

Hospice seeks participants for mini marathons Roscommon/Mayo Hospice is appealing for walkers, joggers and runners to participate in the West of Ireland Mini Marathon in Castlebar on Sunday, May 1st or the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon in Dublin on Bank Holiday Monday, 6th June on their behalf in order to help raise the much-needed funds necessary to maintain local palliative care services.

Sponsorship cards can be obtained by contacting 0949388666. Please support this worthy cause. Thank you.

From My Kitchen Table Why I won’t be tying a yellow ribbon round the old oak tree for Michaella!

MIRIAM KERINS

O

kay, forget what you’ve heard, because it appears crime does pay! Well it does if you’re an arrogant drug mule like Michaella McCollum Connolly, the 23-year-old Tyrone woman, whom, while holidaying in Ibiza in 2013 ‘disappeared’ before raising her cheeky head over a week later in Lima airport where she was arrested along with gal pal Melissa Reid as they, according to the Irish Mirror, were ‘trying to board a flight with 24lbs of cocaine hidden inside food packages in their luggage.’

Yeah, you remember her, the poor, put-upon lickle “I’m not a bad person” Michaella, bless, is now free and sure you can almost hear the bluebirds sing, flutter and bob about her luscious platinum blonde locks.

I mean, doesn’t she look amazing with her flawlessly made-up face and enviably long, toned legs encased in a pair of designer ripped jeans that would make fashionistas

weep as she granted us lawabiding folk an audience, with her first ever interview afforded to RTE following her release from Peruvian ‘hellhole’ Ancon 2; or as it’s affectionately known by those lie-spinning jailbirds like McCollum Connolly, ‘Hell’s Hacienda.’

Well hang on there now a second my precious while I run out and tie a yellow ribbon round the old oak tree for ya!

And hold still while I get in touch with those good ole’ country ‘n’ western folk and see if they’ll pen a little ditty in your honour…the ballad of the Peru Two! Eh, NOT! You see I don’t feel anything but utter contempt for selfish, mendacious drug mules, especially ones who aren’t prepared to pay the piper if they’re caught and who initially claim they ‘were forced into carrying the drugs.’ Okay, the pair did eventually come clean and plead guilty, but not before weaving an elaborate tale which first came to the public’s

attention when Michaella’s distraught family launched a Facebook appeal for information concerning her whereabouts when they hadn’t heard from her for ten days.

The whole incident was reported at the time by the Evening Herald which stated: ‘The girls said they had been threatened at gunpoint to carry out the task for the drug dealers,’ with Michaella, in an Oscar winning performance, adding for effect, “This man approached us as we were on a night out and offered to show us a good time in San Antonio.

He was the one who handed us over to the South Americans.

There was always the threat of violence,” she added. “In the house, the men openly carried guns and would frequently point them at us. We both had a pistol put to our heads with the trigger cocked. We would have done anything they said.”

As a mother, I can just imagine what this terror must have done to the reckless, molly-coddled,

Why do we tend to blame the ‘other’ woman?

Here’s a thought – wouldn’t it be great if we were all forgiving wives willing to turn a blind eye to the hubby’s ‘sextual’ banter (should it occur) with another woman – especially when said other woman is a hot, 29-year-old blonde bombshell – and instead believe sleazy hubby’s lies, sorry, claims, he only responded because, by way of doing him a service, the hot harlot was sending him “information she wanted to pass on.”

Now what kind of a thicko would ya be to swallow that? The kind that is Tess Daly – well, the kind of thicko her sordid, low-life husband Vernon Kay would like us to believe she is. Now mind you, apparently poor misguided Tess seems blind to the fact her creepy hubby ‘Uncle Vern’ is a despicable prat who appears to care sweet feck all for her or their two beautiful kids and instead chooses to lay the blame firmly at the feet of said ‘sext’ message bearer Rhian Sugden.

Perhaps this is denial, perhaps it’s a coping strategy or perhaps Tess doesn’t want to lose her role as one half of a massively earning power couple; who knows? Let me tell you girls that a man you cannot trust is dangerous to your very survival status because it means your family’s time, attention and resources are now being diverted elsewhere.

Tess Daily and Vernon Kay.

Women suffer greatly when lied to, meaning that if Kay is lying about his reasons for his inappropriate sexting to another woman, Tess will already be in pain, even thinking she’s losing her mind, feeling in some way that she’s personally defective, imagining things when in fact the opposite is the truth…her gut is telling her that the tension she’s experiencing in her mind and body is justified and that she should throw this rat out and find herself someone she can trust, someone who is worthy of her and someone whose ‘phone she won’t have to police for the rest of her married life! I wish her the very best.

self-serving young woman’s own poor distressed mammy, Norah.

Now while I’m sure Michaella and Melissa Reid are not bad people, rather they are more likely two bloody conniving eejits, the fact is what they did was wrong, and, to be honest, serving just two years and three months of an original six-year-eight-month sentence is absolutely no deterrent whatsoever. Mind you, neither is emerging from said ‘hellhole’ looking like they’ve spent a month at a 5-star health spa!

Now I’m all for rehabilitation – sure when I was living in Dublin I designed and delivered education programmes for those in the Irish prison system – and I’m glad Lima-based Bishop Sean Walsh has offered Michaella a voluntary position with his Church, where he’ll provide accommodation in his own home, with the prospect of her being ‘allowed to work and study if she wants to do that,’ but sorry folks, in my

opinion, these concessions are more than this manipulative, deceitful drug mule deserves. This woman thought she could callously break the law, make a mint and pee all over the rest of us right-thinking individuals as she did it.

However, I do agree with the Bishop’s comment regarding the cunning, impudent little madam, describing her as “innovative and productive” – well, she’s certainly no Forrest Gump figure, that’s for sure, Bishop Sean.

Now Michaella’s been sprung, I’ve no doubt this reformed and fine upstanding citizen will earn a fortune working the circuit with appearances on the likes of Ellen, Celebrity Big Brother and I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here, et al, giving us the two fingers as she tearfully claims to have suffered some sort of makey-uppey, unspecified, unpronounceable disorder that made her lie, cheat and deceive an entire nation! I know… maybe she could go into politics!

oncern Breege’s timely c service on Mental Healtpehr where Breege

this newspa ciation expressed Last week’s report in hiatric Nurses’ Asso alth patients who yc Ps the of he l Callaghan nta me number of tric unit at ‘grave concern at the mitted to the psychia d – and Ms. ad ry nta olu inv ing ee ind are be l,’ is very worrying Roscommon Hospitabe concerned. to ht , have a right Callaghan is rig ntally ill or otherwise People, whether me t as they have a right to receive it; to refuse treatment jusrights can often become the focus of s however, sadly these r those who suffer acute mental illnes debate and dispute fofamilies. That said, I would personally and their concerned ergency situation, all scenarios are off opine that, in an em a member of my family was showing and if a loved one orto their own, mine, or another’s safety, an imminent threat do all I could to protect them from then I’d step up and that meant having a health specialist themselves, even if treatment. c provide involuntaryCallaghan claims, in terms of psychiatri I s. d M an n, s,” mo tie om un sc co Ro er 20 years behind oth supports “could be y is quite correct when she suggests lad ely s as others; a set suspect this lov t of the same servicebetter solution to eip rec in t no are we rces would be a far of community resoueded is a critical care emergency plan ne t’s tion and supports coercion. Wha cessary communica d families. While ne the s ide ov pr t tha dical care-givers an t between patients, mein place to serve citizens, we must no are when s en ev hts rig ve I know that law ha ir o are mentally ill forget that those wh an episode that seriously impairs the h ing nc rie tal Healt pe en M r ou e they are ex tim it’s ilities. Maybe decision-making ab auled? erh ov s wa 01 20 Act

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

FREE Course

Pictured are James Hoban, Cate Gormley, Bridget Giblin, Eimear Reynolds, Eddie Kiernan, Sister Helen Bosquette, Mary Egan, Fr. Ultan Naughton and Andrew Reynolds in London during the Roscommon Solstice Choir’s recent trip.

Solstice Choir a big hit in London! < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

After months of planning and rehearsals, the Roscommon Solstice Choir recently travelled to London, where they performed a successful concert for Acton Homeless Concern.

Initially, the popular choir made contact with Sr. Helen Bosquette, from Strokestown, and Fr. Ultan Naughton, from Roscommon, who both work with Acton Homeless Concern in the English Capital.

And, from Thursday, February 18 to 21, their trip came to fruition. They travelled via Ireland West Airport at Knock, picking up members of the choir and their families and friends en route.

Even before they boarded their aircraft, they were in full voice. Patrons at the airport were treated to a rousing rendition of the new Roscommon anthem, Land of the O’Connor, written by Paddy Lohan.

On arrival at Luton Airport, the choir made their way to their accommodation in Ealing, London. With a bit of spare time, members availed of the opportunity to meet friends and relatives, many of whom had travelled from various parts of England to attend the concert.

The long-awaited concert took place the next day, Friday, February 19, in

Pictured are Ann Naughten and Michael Ward in London as part of the Roscommon Solstice Choir’s recent trip.

St Aidan’s Church, East Acton, in aid of Acton Homeless Concern.

The charity was founded in 1989 and has two centres in the area, where they provide 7,000 meals a week to poor people.

The concert was a great success and was well attended. A mixture of songs – gospel, religious, ballads and classical – were performed under the directorship of siblings Andrew and Eimear Reynolds, from Rooskey.

Musical accompaniment was provided by James Wallace.

A highlight of the night was Fr. Ultan’s Reflection on Roscommon, a special piece written by Paul Healy, the editor of the Roscommon People.

The concert raised €5,000, which was a very welcome boost to the charity.

The following night, Saturday, the

choir members went to the West End to attend a production of the longstanding musical Les Misérables. A thoroughly enjoyable evening was had by all.

Later that evening, the choir attended and sang at a Mass in Fr. Ultan’s Church, Our Lady of Lourdes at High Street, Acton.

On Sunday, the choir made their return journey to Ireland, bringing to a conclusion a very fruitful and enjoyable trip.

Jimmy Hoban, a member of the choir, would like to express thanks to the following: Andrew, Eimear, James, Bridget, Marie and all choir members; and Fr. Fergal, Fr. Ultan, Sr. Helen Bosquette, Ian Breen, Anne Gray and all members of the Acton Homeless Concern.

He would also like to thank crew members Eddie, Ryan, Catherine, Gussie, Finian, Brendan and Paul, along with Angelina Nugent, the MC. He would also like to thank the management and drivers of Coyle’s and Mullaney bus companies, along with Fr. Raymond Browne and all in the Kilbride Community Centre, Fourmilehouse.

Finally, thanks are also extended to the management and staff of Travel Lodge, London.

Pictured are Mary Comiskey, Mary Egan, Maura Comiskey and Martin Hanmore in London as part of Roscommon Solstice Choir’s recent trip.

Head-on collision at Athleague A man was taken to hospital for treatment after a head-on collision between two vehicles at Athleague last Saturday night.

The man, aged in his mid-thirties, was taken to Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe, but his injuries are not thought to have been serious.

The collision occurred between 8.40 pm and 8.50 pm.

The driver of the other vehicle, a man in his mid-twenties, was arrested for alleged road traffic offences, relating to driving licence and insurance, and taken to Roscommon Garda Station. He was later charged.

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14

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople County Board under fire over Hyde Park debacle < DAN DOONER

Seamus Sweeney interview: Pages 16-17

Opinion: Sports Section

Roscommon County Board have once again come under fire due to their handling of the Dr. Hyde Park debacle as last Sunday’s Allianz Football League Division One match was switched to Carrick-on-Shannon less than five hours before the scheduled throw-in.

The Hyde Park pitch was in doubt following Roscommon’s defeat to neighbours Mayo at the venue the previous week. The ground staff carried out repairs to the pitch throughout the week and a compound was spread in the hope of preventing further damage. The pitch passed inspection by the Central Competition Controls Committee on Saturday evening but further rain on Saturday night led to the venue being unplayable.

Roscommon GAA released this statement at 9.27 am on Sunday: “There was a pitch

inspection carried out on Dr Douglas Hyde Park Roscommon today at 9 am. The referee felt that the pitch was unplayable and as a result Roscommon GAA has moved the match to Pairc Sean in Carrick-on-Shannon, throw-in at 2 pm.”

Many Dublin fans travelling to the match were left stranded in Roscommon town as Roscommon GAA set about providing buses.

Some fans claimed they were then charged for these buses which led to Roscommon GAA releasing this statement: “Following a full investigation Roscommon GAA can categorically state that no person was charged to travel on the complimentary bus service provided by Roscommon GAA. Roscommon GAA has however discovered that other people hired buses from Roscommon to Carrick-onShannon. We hope the matter is now closed.”

With fans still flooding into Pairc Seán Mac Diarmada, throw-in was delayed until 2.15 pm.

Dublin emerged as narrow winners following an entertaining game and both sets of fans were in good spirits leaving Leitrim.

Following the match both managers agreed the call should have made earlier. Dublin manager, Jim Gavin felt five hours’ notice for supporters “not just Dublin supporters but (also) Roscommon supporters” was not ideal.

“I think the lesson to be learned is to make these calls early.”

Roscommon joint manager, Fergal O’Donnell had sympathy for travelling fans: “I do feel sorry for the Dublin supporters, it is disppointing and a bit unfair on them.

I think the call should have been made earlier.”

Meanwhile, the fall-out over the controversy continues with calls for the Roscommon County Board to begin work on Dr. Hyde Park immediately. Work on the pitch was not expected to begin until the Connacht Championship but the recent problems and subsequent public fall-out has put pressure on the board to act.

St. Asicus’ Centre controversy ‘being hijacked for political reasons’ …but Doherty calls for Board to ‘stand aside’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The divisive battle over St. Asicus’ Centre in Keadue has intensified this week – with Charlie Hopkins, the chairman of the board of management, saying that the issue was being “hijacked for political purposes”.

However, on the opposing side, Fianna Fáil councillor Rachel Doherty has called on the board to “stand aside” and allow a new body to run the centre.

Mr. Hopkins, however, has resisted those calls. And, in a dramatic about-turn, he insisted that normal service would resume at the centre from next week.

Initially, after state body Pobal withdrew its annual grant of €104,000 for the facility for elderly people, the board reduced staffing levels from five to three and curtailed the day care centre and meals-onwheels service.

However, their plan did not meet with the approval of the Health Service Executive, who provide a grant of €29,000 a year to the centre.

That has prompted the board’s reversal: it has rowed back on its plan to cut the meals-on-wheels service from five to three days, with additional cold meals also being delivered.

Mr. Hopkins said: “The HSE were unhappy with the three days, especially

with the cold meal being delivered. We decided to continue providing the hot meals five days a week.”

The board has also rowed back on its plan to reduce the day care service from two days a week to one.

“The day care service will continue as it is from next week,” Mr. Hopkins said.

“Effectively, the service will continue as it is – two days in the day care service and five days with the meal-delivery service. It will be business as usual.”

Mr. Hopkins said that the staff who had been let go would not be rehired, but that agency healthcare staff would be employed. He said that the service would be financed through the board’s own ‘substantial reserve’ of funding and the HSE’s grant, which he hopes will continue.

The uncertainty over the future of the centre has generated controversy. A local action group, including Cllr. Doherty, have been involved in separate negotiations with Pobal about having funding restored.

The delegation has said that the state body would be willing to restore the funding

provided that “there can be no duplication of service with the existing community service provision in the area”.

This has led Fianna Fáil councillor Rachel Doherty, a member of the delegation, to call for the existing board to quit and abandon their service completely, so that a ‘new’ service could be formed.

However, Mr. Hopkins described that idea as “a joke” and said that the centre was being “hijacked for political purposes”.

“When we were fundraising and looking for help for the last 15 years, we didn’t see any of these people,” he said. “They are coming out of the woodwork now and we just don’t know where they are coming from.”

Cllr. Doherty said that her group had sought meeting with the board over the past week in an attempt to resolve the impasse, to no avail. pShe said that the service users were being affected – that “vulnerable people” had been left in the dark since the saga broke out in mid-February.

“They are anxious and upset and they feel they have been ignored,” she said. “It has been a very distressing time for them.

“They should never have been treated this way.”

The clients did not attend the day care centre on Monday as a protest against the services being curtailed, she said.

“They refuse to accept the downgraded service and they want to see a full service funded, with a manager in place,” Cllr.

Doherty added.

Charlie Hopkins

Cllr. Rachel Doherty

Lease for St. Asicus’ Centre venue is terminated < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The uncertainty surrounding the future of St. Asicus’ Centre at Keadue took another twist on Wednesday afternoon when it emerged that its venue would no longer be available from ten days’ time.

The day care centre has been based at St. Ronan’s Hall in the picturesque north Roscommon village.

However the committee that runs the facility decided to end its rental agreement with the board of management because of the saga over St. Asicus’ future.

“We have decided to terminate the lease agreement from April 16,” Paraic Noone, the committee’s secretary, said.

A dispute has emerged between the existing board of management and a local action group over the running of the service: the board want to continue running it, while the latter want a replacement body to take over.

“We are aware of the ongoing controversy since the middle of February,” Mr Noone said. “We were approached with regarding to participating in the new business proposal submitted by the local action group.

“We want to ensure the best possible sustainable service for the centre and, because of that, we gave a month’s notice to terminate the lease agreement.”

15

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

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Damien O’Dowd, Rossa, Fiachra and John Brennan pictured at Dublin v Roscommon in Carrick-on-Shannon on Sunday. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

‘We need a ‘Should we have called the game off earlier?

We were damned if we did, damned if we didn’t’ SS: In order to get games into Hyde Park, we need a new playing surface.

We are currently in discussions with the Infrastructure Committee in Croke Park. A number of companies, five in all, have looked at Hyde Park, but we haven’t received a quote (price) from any of them yet.

Roscommon County Board Chairperson Seamus Sweeney addresses THAT controversy in conversation with Roscommon People Editor Paul Healy

PH: How soon will work commence?

SS: When we get the quotes back, we will look at what is the best option, what is the best approach to take so that we can get football back in the Hyde.

PH: What is the basic problem with Dr. Hyde Park?

SS: Well, the basic problem is the condition of the pitch. This year it has proven to be a real difficulty due to wet conditions. We need a new pitch.

It has been an issue for some time but there’s a greater spotlight on it now because we are in Division One. It has proven to be extremely difficult this year but we have no control over the weather. Everyone knows the difficulties we have been having. We just need to proceed now (with a new pitch).

PH: So that was the situation leading into the beginning of last week…what level of work was done in Hyde Park from the Monday through to Friday in order to try and secure the Dublin game?

SS: Well Peter Murray and his team were at work on the pitch every day. Every effort was being made to have the pitch ready for the Dublin game. In fairness, the CCCC (the GAA’s Central Competition Controls Committee) was prepared to give us every opportunity too. Then on the Friday we had a company from Cork in, they have expertise in the area of having pitches, golf courses, etc. ready. They put a compound on it and let the water off. In fact there was no surface water on the pitch on Friday – or Saturday.

PH: The first inspection took place on Saturday, the day before the match?

SS: Yes, on Saturday at 5 pm. An intercounty referee – arranged by the CCCC –inspected Hyde Park. He did raise some concerns, but he didn’t rule it out. A decision was taken to hold another inspection at 9 am on Sunday morning.

PH: When it began to rain heavily on Saturday evening, were there no behind-the-scenes discussions with a view to calling it off there and then – on Saturday night – to give due notice to fans?

SS: Well, no, the decision had been

PH: Is the intention to have a new surface ready for the first National Football League Division One game of 2017?

SS: We don’t have a timescale yet, but it is in all our interests to get football back into Hyde Park as soon as possible.

Pictured at Markievicz Park at the Connacht U-21 Final on Saturday were Roscommon County Board officials (from left) Seamus Sweeney (chairperson), Brian Carroll (secretary) and Hugh Lynn (PRO). Picture: Andrew Fox

made to conduct an inspection at 9 am on Sunday morning. The CCCC wanted to give us every chance (to host the match).

PH: Were the County Board and CCCC present at the inspection on Saturday?

SS: There was a County Board officer there but the referee did not communicate with us (he communicated back to the CCCC).

The CCCC were not present.

PH: In the days building up to the match, did businesses in Roscommon town apply pressure to Roscommon County Board with a view to ensuring that the game went ahead in Hyde Park?

SS: Not to my knowledge. I am not aware of any calls being received from the business community.

PH: At what point had it been decided to forfeit home advantage for the Connacht U-21 Final (scheduled for Dr. Hyde Park on Saturday, ultimately played in Sligo).

SS: Consultations were held early in the week with the Connacht Council.

Obviously the ‘big plan’ was to host Dublin in Hyde Park on the Sunday….but the U-21 game was a matter for the Connacht Council.

Some fans are asking why was it not switched to Kiltoom. However there were 5000 fans at last year’s Connacht U-21 Final and with Mayo involved this year there was an opinion that the crowd would be bigger. As it happens, that didn’t materialise.

PH: When deciding on a 9 am inspection on Sunday morning, was there no consideration given to the fact that many Dublin fans would be travelling to Roscommon on an 8 am train?

SS: The CCCC decided on the 9 am inspection. If it hadn’t rained as much as it did (on Saturday night) I believe Hyde Park would have been playable. But we got the call on Sunday morning saying Hyde Park was not available and the game was gone to Carrick. The decision to switch the game was made by Croke Park (CCCC).

We (Roscommon County Board) recognised that a certain amount of Dublin fans would be travelling to Roscommon by train…so we contacted bus operators and arranged complimentary buses for fans (from Roscommon to Carrick).

PH: How many buses – and was it sufficient?

SS: Two buses…and no-one was charged. It was complimentary.

As you know, it was subsequently reported that some Dublin fans had been charged €10, but we investigated that and we are absolutely satisfied that nobody travelling on the buses arranged by us was charged.

Obviously some fans contacted other bus operators themselves.

PH: Looking back now, would you do anything differently? Should the game have been switched on Thursday…Friday…Saturday night?

SS: The CCCC were giving us every chance. If we had a dry night on Saturday the pitch would have been okay. Dessie Dolan (the Westmeath star) said on RTE’s ‘League Sunday’ on Sunday night that the Hyde was playable when he looked at it on Friday.

As for an earlier decision…we were damned if we did, damned if we didn’t. It’s a huge decision to take a game (of this magnitude) out of a county. If the game had been switched on Friday or Saturday and if we had a dry night then (on Saturday) people would have been up in arms too.

PH: What is the plan now for Hyde Park?

PH: How much will the work cost and where is the money coming from?

SS: We don’t have a price yet but I expect we are looking at €300,000€400,000. Some of that will come from grant-aid from Croke Park, the rest we will have to raise ourselves.

PH: Are you confident funds can be raised locally?

SS: I would hope that the goodwill is there, amongst businesses and fans. People have always been very supportive.

PH: Speaking of money, has the unavailability of Dr. Hyde Park cost Roscommon GAA financially?

SS: Absolutely. We have lost out on a lot of money.

PH: Can you explain how that works…?

SS: Well, when you host a home game, 80% of the ‘gate’ goes to Croke Park and 20% goes to the host county.

PH: So did Leitrim County Board get 20% last Sunday?

SS: No, how it works in a situation like that is that Leitrim gets 10% and Roscommon gets 10%. Then of course there are auxiliary costs to be paid. So when you take the entire league campaign into account, we would have lost a substantial sum of money due to the difficulties with Dr. Hyde Park.

PH: Is it your intention to have the Continued on next page

17

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

new pitch’ Continued from previous page -> new pitch ready for the first home game of the 2017 National Football League Division One? SS: As a County Board, we will be guided by the expertise available to us. We have to decide whether we will be re-seeding or whether we will be doing a new sod. There will be a new drainage system and so on.

PH: But the aim presumably is the first home game of 2017?

SS: We will be planning to meet that deadline. We want to get football back in the Hyde as soon as we can.

PH: Are there other aspects to the work or is it exclusively about a new surface?

SS: It’s a new surface for now, but of course there is a development plan for Hyde Park. That’s for down the road…that’s agreed and will happen in the future. It’s a €9.5m plan.

PH: That will feature enhanced

facilities and a bigger capacity?

SS: Yes, but that’s for the future. We will be doing it in stages. The priority now is the pitch. That development plan allows for a capacity of 25,000…currently it’s 20,000.

PH: On the field, Roscommon are going great and play Kerry in the National League semi-final at Croke Park on Sunday…

SS: Yes, it’s the place you want to be, playing Kerry in a National League semi-final in Croke Park. Everyone is looking forward to it. We have an exceptional management team and a great bunch of players. I really want to emphasise how dedicated and committed the players are. Our supporters are fantastic. This is a ‘mad’ GAA county and there is fantastic support for our games and our teams. The momentum behind our teams at the moment is lifting the mood of the entire county, which is great. I know that there will be great support for our team in Croke Park on Sunday and long may the current momentum continue.

Dr. Hyde Park…work on a new playing surface to commence soon. Picture: Andrew Fox

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18

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

FRANKLY

SPEAKING

FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

I had a dream…I was playing for Roscommon

By Frank Brandon When I went to bed, it was late last night And I had myself a dream That I was playing football For Roscommon’s county team I had never got the nod before, but it didn’t get me down And now ‘twas even better For the Dubs would be in town.

They are All-Ireland Champions With a host of household names And I marvelled at their brilliance As they were winning all their games.

The majestic Brogan brothers And Stephen Cluxton too Diarmuid and Mac Dara And all the other boys in blue But still I wasn’t frightened As a young child of the dark For the Dubs are not so mighty When they have to leave Croke Park.

And I knew that I was ready Didn’t doubt myself a bit I had always done the training And was feeling really fit.

You could sense the town was buzzing As it used to in the boom But Kevin and Fergal brought us straight into the dressing room And there we stretched and twisted And all of us got rubs No team could be more ready To go out and face the Dubs.

And then the vital moment came The removal of all doubt In almost total silence Kevin read the fifteen out I didn’t have too long to wait Almost straight away I knew That yes I would be starting I’d be wearing number two.

In praise of those Connacht warriors I

first became aware of Connacht rugby back in the amateur days of the early seventies, when in fairness the social side of the game was its main attraction and when our top international players, (or at least some of them), were as famous for their ability to drink pints as they were for their prowess on the field and one of our best-ever back row forwards would literally take to the pitch with a cigarette dangling from his tobacco-stained mouth.

At the time Connacht was the hind-tit of Irish rugby, a totally unwanted province (has anything changed?), and the three other provinces carried all the selection power for the international side,

which meant that it was almost impossible for a Connacht player to get an international cap and as Ulster had to have a certain number of players on the Irish team to keep the Northern people happy, it was no wonder that interprovincial success for the western province was something to be savoured and appreciated.

Of course some Connacht players were so good that eventually they just had to be picked on the Irish team, men like Ray McLoughlin, Mick Molloy and Eamon McGuire – who just couldn’t be ignored – and they were all heroes to a young sports-mad lad growing up in the village of Creggs, (that was me in

case you’re lost).

Anyway, remarkably in a lot of ways, out of our little village, which at the time, had no rugby connection at all, two of our young lads, Jack the Higher (Cunningham) and the Rasher, my brother Declan, were to represent Connacht at senior level and almost forty years ago, I stood along with a couple of hundred other hardy souls on the sidelines in Donnybrook as the two lads took on the might of a Leinster team powered by a number of Irish international players (and even Lions). I would love to tell you our boys inspired Connacht to a famous victory but sadly, although it was a very close-run thing, the

The teams walked out onto the field And I was feeling grand We paraded all around the pitch Behind the Castlerea Brass Band.

The referee threw in the ball T’was just gone two o clock I was marking Bernard Brogan Was he in for a shock.

The first ball when it came our way I hit him with my knee The ref gave me a yellow card And Brogan scored the free.

The next one came in long and high Although t’was cold and wet He caught it clean above my head And stuck it in the net.

By now the pressures coming on And I was fairly cross I said it’s time for me to show Young Brogan whose the boss The next and last one came flying in And skidded off the ground And I slid down to pick it up But tragically I drowned.

And then I met St. Peter He said what brings you here When I last saw you this evening You were in your football gear.

I said to him it’s all your fault Yourself and God’s to blame You knew the Hyde was flooding You should not have let it rain.

He said hang on a minute And maybe you are right I think we’re going to send you back You should be home tonight But if you get a second chance Please God I loudly cried You must promise me you’ll never again Play football in the Hyde.

At that very moment I woke up I was safe at home in bed I really hadn’t drowned at all And no I wasn’t dead.

I turned on the local radio, I heard Willie’s famous voice The match was played in Carrick And the Dubs won by a point!

Hyde controversy Hyde Park is now the most famous football pitch in the country and on every programme on every radio station this Monday morning, the conversation is all about the last-minute calling off of the game with the Dubs and its transfer to Carrick-on-Shannon.

Now it does appear as if the decision was not a Roscommon County Board one, but rather a Croke Park one, so the criticism of the County Board was a bit unfair, but regardless of who made the final call, as the rain fell steadily all through Saturday evening and night, there was no one in the county who believed that the game could go ahead in the Hyde.

I was in Mikeen’s and everyone I spoke to was certain that the pitch would be unplayable. Surely the call could have been made on Saturday night or maybe at 7 o’clock Sunday morning. Had it been looked at then, the

Dublin supporters (or at least those who travelled on Sunday), could have gone straight to Carrick and there wouldn’t have been as big a mess.

However, despite not having a pitch of their own, the Rossies had a brilliant league campaign and are now looking forward to a trip to Croke Park next Sunday to have another crack at the men from the Kingdom. It should be a cracker and who knows, they may also have another go at the Dubs in the League Final. I won’t be in Croker on Sunday next, as our rugby lads, after a great victory in Tuam yesterday (Sunday), play Connemara in a play-off to secure a place in the top tier of Connacht Junior rugby. It would be a great achievement to get back there after an absence of a few years, so please God, wherever it is, I’ll be there and if you can come along and give them a push over the line, so to speak, please do.

Leinster lads eventually prevailed. I don’t think Jack or the Rasher ever played on the senior team together after that, but later on when Creggs was up and running, they played many times for the Junior side.

All of this came into my head on Friday evening last when I watched what I believe to have been the most heroic performance ever put in by a Connacht side, as they went down 18 points to 10 in Kingspan Park in Belfast, to a decidedly lucky Ulster team. I won’t say anything about the referee, except to say that at one stage my son Mark, who was watching the game in Dublin, and myself exchanged texts at the exact same time and we both said exactly the same thing about the ref – two words that most certainly can’t be reproduced in this, or any other, family paper.

The bravery, commitment, passion and skill exhibited by the western team was extraordinary and even if they left without a bonus point, the final ten minutes or so, when they had only 13 men, was like looking at a re-run of a war movie – men putting their bodies on the line without any thought of personal safety and as someone who occasionally questions the heart of some of the imported players, I have to eat my words and say that everyone who wore the green jersey on Friday night earned the right to be an honourary Connacht man for all time.

There is of course a Creggs connection with this team as Denis Buckley, who must soon get a call-up by Joe Schmidt, was with us as an underage player and we are rightly proud of his achievements and all I can say is on Friday night, they restored my faith in the professional game. I wonder if the hierarchy could live with Connacht winning the league?

Anyway there are three matches left and they will all be momentous occasions. I can’t wait!

Back to the Rasher and Jack the Higher and in a junior game against, funny enough, Ulster as well, as the match came to a close and with Ulster leading by a point or two, the Rasher found himself bearing down on the opponents’ line – a match-winning try was in his sights and although he was about to be tackled, all he had to do was pass to the free man on his right and a Connacht victory was assured. Sadly the free man was wearing Galwegians socks and the Rasher couldn’t bear the thought of an arch-enemy scoring the winning try so he looked for Jack the Higher, who was almost killed when he got the ball.

Ulster won the match, the Rasher never played for Connacht again, Jack the Higher eventually recovered from his injuries, but never played with the Rasher again, but thankfully, (only joking) they are back talking again.

And finally…

Finally for this week, there was a very enjoyable and well-supported Table Quiz in Mikeen’s on Friday night in aid of Anthony Rowan’s charity trip to Tanzania.

As quizmaster, ably abetted by the legend that is Tom Connelly, there was a whiff of suspicion

about the fact that I won three prizes in the raffle, but I can assure you it was all legal and above board and the bottles of wine will be put to good use!

‘Till next week, Bye for now

19

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

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Fruity flavours Fruit trees and bushes are even easier than vegetables to grow at home as the plants usually last for several years and produce more and more fruit each year. Children also love to grow their own fruit, especially strawberries, which crop easily and are so scrumptious with ice cream! They will happily grow in a pot on a sunny patio, where you can watch the fruit ripen and pick them at a moment’s notice.

The taste of homegrown strawberries is simply sublime and a great treat in summer.

Blueberries are very easy to grow as well and if you’ve never grown one before you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how well they crop. The fruit grows on a bushy plant which is very happy to live in a large pot of Ericaceous, or lime-free, compost (the same type that is used for rhododendrons). Give them plenty of water in dry weather and they will reward you with delicious blue-black fruits in summer. Blueberries are regarded as one of the new super foods, full of antioxidants, so they do you lots of good as well!

Enjoy your own apples If you have a reasonablesized garden, then why not try a few apple trees? They are very long-lived trees and will give years of pleasure and fruit for generations.

Varieties such as ‘Katja’ and ‘Discovery’, are particularly suited for our climate in the west of Ireland and highly recommended. Plum and pear trees will also give good crops in most sheltered locations. It’s worth remembering that many of these fruit trees will set more fruit if at least two different varieties are grown nearby.

A huge selection of vegetable seeds and plants, herbs, fruit trees and fruit bushes and all things edible is available from Ardcarne Garden Centre. A Free Vegetable Growing Event will be taking place at Ardcarne Garden Centre, this Saturday (April 9th).

Join Expert Organic Grower Klaus Laitenberger at 11 am (Ardcarne, Boyle) and 3 pm (Ardcarne Garden Centre, Roscommon Town) and pick up some great tips on growing.

All welcome.

Ardcarne Garden Centre is located just off the N4 near Boyle and also on the Lanesboro Road, Roscommon Town.

Open every day Monday-Saturday 9-6 pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 1-6 pm. Tel: 071 9667091(Boyle) and 090 6627700 (Roscommon Town).

Your Heart, Your Home, Your Kitchen

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

“Professional Service and advice provided” Neff Master Partners Visit our website:www.naughtonkitchens.com

ROSCOMMON

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

Grow Your Own...

Healthy Vegetables FREE

VEGETABLE GROWING EVENT with leading organic grower

Klaus Laitenberger Saturday 9th April 11am (Boyle) and 3 pm (Roscommon town)

Ardcarne We’re here to help Garden Centre www.ardcarne.ie AT TWO GREAT LOCATIONS:

Ardcarne, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Tel. 071 966 7091 Lanesboro Road, Roscommon town. Tel. 090 662 7700

20

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN CASTLEREA

Garden Centre

Ballymoe Road, Castlerea , Co. Roscommon

• QualityTrees Trees and and Shrubs • Quality • Hedgingand and Conifers Conifers • Hedging Fruit Trees Trees and ••Fruit and Vegetable Vegetable Plants Plants • Summer Bedding Plants • Spring now Flowers now in stock in stock • Hanging Baskets • Hanging Baskets and Window Boxes filled and Window Boxes filled

Contact Mark Malone

Dip. Hort.

086 0593990

DONAMON Tarmacadam

Country living with Alderford Interiors Seamus Croghan Specialising in Kerbing, Tar and Chips and Tarmacadam Machine or hand laid

Contact Damian at (087) 9962361

Groundwork and Concrete Specialist SPECIALISING IN THE FOLLOWING

Civil Engineering ● Site Clearance & Site Layout ● Raft and Strip Foundations ● Pipework and Septic Tank insulation to E.P.A. standards. ● Brick & Block paving and Kerbing ●

086 8720720

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS & SERVICES • Relining • Rebuilding • Chimney Repairs • CCTV Surveys and reports • Insurance Quotes

Telephone: 086 2592002

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

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

With springtime here, this is the season to inspire a country style theme to your home. This look is simple to introduce into any style of home – you don’t need to live in a cottage or farmhouse.

The country living colour palette is full of fresh pale greens and sky blues mixed with warm neutral tones. With furniture, opt for traditional designs and plenty of wood, particularly for kitchen and dining rooms. Add in the odd distressed finish here and there and combine with natural fabrics like linens, cottons and wool for a charmingly rustic and comfortable feel.

The Kyra Ivory dining collection offers a country living look with a contemporary twist, blending traditional and modern styles to desirable effect. The stunning oak tops, showcasing the natural beauty of oiled American oak solids and veneers contrast beautifully with a crisp, fresh, ivory paint finish.

The Kyra boasts great design details such as tongue and groove effect back panels, classically understated turned legs and brushed steel handles. The range looks great when dressed with traditional, rustic tableware or a pretty, vintage china set.

Stylish cross-back chairs accompany the dining table and are upholstered in a sand-coloured fabric, which compliment the generous extending dining table.

Continue the theme throughout a kitchen or dining room with dressers and cabinets in the same design. The Kyra Ivory wine cabinet has great practical features including Blum soft-closing drawers, a hardwearing lacquer finish and a twenty-five-bottle

wine rack with pullout shelf, making it a clever solution for storage as well as entertaining.

Find out how you can introduce country living to your home with Alderford Interiors by contacting us on 071 9647016 or log onto alderfordinteriors.ie. (Advertorial)

21

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN

www.alderfordinteriors.ie •

INTERIORS

‘Making your dream furniture affordable’ FREE DELIVERY

BALLYFARNON CO. ROSCOMMON 071 – 9647016

Find us on

OPEN: Mon-Sat: 9.30am-6pm Sun & Bank Holidays: 2.00-6pm

22

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN

BALLAGHADERREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON

Chainsaw Repairs, Replacement Chain and Sharpening Service

Phone: 094 98 60314 (Ballaghaderreen) or 087 6950025 (Roxboro, Roscommon)

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

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

APPROVED INSTALLER

JOHN HIBBITT

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

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie 086 2678350

MICHAEL COONEY & SONS LTD

Homevalue

“For all your Home and Garden requirements at keenest prices, please contact us on the below numbers or call in to our shops for advice & assistance from our staff” Tibohine, Frenchpark Tel: 094 98 70007 Fax: 094 9870104 Elphin Tel: 071 96 35470 Fax: 071 9635462 Castlerea Tel: 094 96 20033 Fax: 094 9620478

“Rose Quartz reminds us to reflect on our surroundings during the busy but lighthearted spring and summer months.”

Ignite your zest for life with an inspirational spring palette Moving home recently has our contributor MIRIAM KERINS “ all smiles” – and with advice to dispense…

The interior design Gods have spoken and, apparently, the colour of the year is…wait for it… the calming, and, in my opinion, the very beautiful Rose Quartz, which, according to Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director, Pantone Colour Institute is ‘like a serene sunset, flushed cheek or budding flower,” adding “Rose Quartz reminds us to reflect on our surroundings during the busy but lighthearted spring and summer months.”

Also coming out of the shadows is the

delightful Peach Echo and the very striking Snorkel Blue and I for one am thrilled because it means I’m quite on-trend when it comes to choosing my colour scheme for our new home because these are among the very hues I’ve dog-eared on the pages of my colour chart.

Yes, it’s true, having recently moved to be nearer the town, to a house which I absolutely adore, I have to say I’m smiling so much my face may crack under the weight of the extra emotion and happy hormones.

The new des res, with the fabulous, friendly neighbours and the amazing view, is already beautifully and tastefully decorated by its previous, lovely occupant but as soon as I’m settled, like everything else in my life…control freak that I am, it’s going to get the Miriam treatment with a lick of the latest coleurs du jour – why? – ‘cos of the old OCD; that’s why,

but I will add, even though our new house’s décor is beautiful as it is, and the previous occupants could not have been more generous, helpful nicer people, sure there’d be no point in me giving readers a bit of interior decorating advice if I wasn’t going to put me moolah where me paint brush is, now would there?

Now I have to say, other colours that tantalise my senses are mint and apple greens which bring to mind a sense of breaking away from the traditional and normally mundane cream; and sunny and fun yellows for the kitchen and dining room which are bright and airy and symbolise light, creativity and confidence, radiating a zest for life; something which I have found I’ve re-discovered from the moment I stepped across the threshold of this lovely new home.

When it comes to Husqvarna Automowers, call to Hylands in Ballinasloe – the expert dealer Hylands, based in Ballinasloe, has been selling, installing and maintaining Husqvarna Automowers since their introduction to Ireland in 1999.

Hylands has an extensive knowledge of Husqvarna Robotic Mowers and employs a team of factorytrained technicians.

With over 500 Automowers installed countrywide, Hylands is the ‘one-stop shop’ for all your robotic mowing needs. They stock the full range of Husqvarna Automowers plus accessories to personalise your robot. They also have a demonstration area where

you can see Husqvarna Automowers working.

Hylands is just 40 minutes from Roscommon and 2 minutes from M6 exit 15 near Applegreen service station.

Call into us or phone 090 9643394 for more information.

23

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN

Go potty this summer in Milands Garden Centre < MIRIAM KERINS

Gardening is a great way to get the family together; sure what better way is there to play, bond, sow and grow precious memories with the kiddies than to get them involved in a healthy outdoor activity this summer.

And, as it’s our proud centenary year, this is the perfect time to ooze patriotism and tradition by planting a commemorative tree, nurturing a flower bed or creating a sustainable vegetable patch. Or better still; why not generate an explosive crop stocked with flavourful fruit and berries, guaranteed to whip up lots of talk among friends and neighbours come barbeque season.

The possibilities are endless with the seeds of your story taking root by making a visit to the lovely Yvonne and John Miland at their family-run Milands Garden Centre.

Conveniently located on the Tuam Road, just outside Mountbellew in that great county of the tribes, Galway, the friendly and knowledgeable Milands have not just created a haven for flowers and plants at their establishment, but also an oasis of calm and a space for visitors to moor and mull over their thoughts and gain inspiration as well as education when deciding how to plan their ‘must-have’ garden.

This lovely, good-humoured husband and wife team perfectly complement each other to provide a friendly, advisory and professional service, the type of which only comes with having over 23 years’

ess In Businyears 0 3 r ove

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GREEN HOUSE TUNNELS experience and a genuine passion for what they do.

“I love it; it’s so relaxing,” says Yvonne, adding “We first started out renting premises in 1993 and then decided to build.”

The Milands not only have one of the most trusted garden centres in Ireland, they also have what is possibly one of the most knowledgeable horticulturists in John, who not only trained at the historical and national Botanic Gardens in Dublin’s

HUSQVARNA AUTOMOWER 420

Glasnevin but whom, Yvonne says, “has built golf courses across Ireland.”

That means that alongside his friendly wife, whose background is combined in business and hospitality, the Milands have got to be the power couple to talk to when it comes to all things related to gardening, landscaping, horticulture, and – oh, don’t forget – when it comes to those essential wedding flowers, Yvonne’s fabulous creations are legendary among fastidious brides.

Special offer 10ft x 15ft, €600 erected on site.

All sizes supplied & erected on site.

Contact: Joe Larkin, Newgrove, Kilrickle, Loughrea.

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

The Garden Centre with that little bit extra

A powerful, full-sized robotic mower that is suitable for most gardens up to 2200 m². It handles all common challenges such as slopes, trees and bushes. Equipped with automatic passage handling, electric height adjustment and weather timer.

Working area up to  m². Max. incline  %.

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Tuam Road, Mountbellew, Co. Galway T. 090 967 9616. E: milandsgc@eircom.net

AUTOMOWER CONNECT®

Come and see our fantastic array of top quality flowers, plants and shurbs

Automower® Connect (available on App Store and Google play) gives you full control at all times. After the dealer has installed this accessory in the robotic mower you are able to start, stop and park it, view and change the mower settings as well as receive alarms and track the mower’s GPS position *Comes with 450X, Available as accessory with 420 / 430X

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SEASONAL OFFERS Compost 75ltr 2 for €10

Onion Sets €1.95

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Roses €4.99

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Green Beech 3ft. – €1

Green Beech 4ft. – €1.50

Copper Beech 4ft. – €2.50

Treat your garden with Lawn Gold – the organic based lawn fertiliser and moss killer

• Vegetable Seeds • Vegetable Plants • Fruit Trees

CALL IN AND SEE US TODAY – Open Monday – Saturday, 9am - 6pm; Sunday, 2 - 6pm

Milands Garden Centre & Florist, Mountbellew. (090) 9679616

24

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Spring HOMEandGARDEN

Get arty in your Spring Garden < MIRIAM KERINS

Part of the attraction of our lovely new home is the garden and its amazing views, and that’s why this year I’ll be dragging he-who-gardens along to Bloom – which is happening over the June Bank Holiday Weekend in Dublin’s Phoenix Park –because this is where he’ll (hopefully) gain inspiration and a mountain of new ideas he can put into practice and showcase when family and friends come to visit over the summer months.

However, as I’ve been doing a bit of research pre-Bloom – because I don’t have the patience to

wait until June – I’ve discovered the following Spring Garden ideas currently trending for 2016.

According to award-winning U.S. landscape gardener Susan Cohan, home-owners will be aping the current European trend of painting their fences dark green or dark blue, creating a vibrant background for setting off plants. Now doesn’t that sound delightful?

According to Canadian expert Helen Battersby, the new trend doing the rounds when it comes to indoor plants is the ‘thriller, spiller, filler’ technique with people treating a plant pot ‘as a small scale landscape.’A kind of showpiece centrepiece that creates pizazz and oozes a personality all of

its own. Indoor vegetable gardening is also becoming popular with small, heart-shaped cherry tomatoes which are called ‘Sweet Valentine’ adding a splash of instant summer to your home.

When visiting your garden centre, keep in mind the size of your garden, and if it’s quite small, ask the assistant to advise you on selecting complimentary plants that aren’t over busy when it comes to colour; otherwise you may end up with a claustrophobic atmosphere resulting in your limited space feeling closed in. Tip! Try matching up some nice pale yellows and greens or blues and lavenders to create the effect of space.

Another trick for extending your indoor theme

Conquer that clutter!

SEAN DOYLE & SONS

rs Over 35 Yea s es n si in Bu ESTABLISHED 1978

• Circular Road, Roscommon • Whitestown Business Park Tallaght, D 24

< MIRIAM KERINS

It’s not until you move house you realise the amount of, let’s say ‘stuff’ or ‘treasures’ for want of two better words, you’ve somehow accumulated… well that others have accumulated. Okay, I’ve got my fair share of ‘stuff’ but it’s actually quite contained, because I don’t do clutter. However, for those who do, here are some of my top tips for ridding yourself of the detritus that is a 1980s Betamax video recorder, a Tom Selleck moustache busting Braun electric shaver, complete with slider button and a Soda Stream…Aaaagh!

You see, clutter affects me; it wastes energy and it collects dust; and, despite the fact hubby often jokes I’ve got everything neatly assigned to an envelope which is in a box, which is in another carefully labelled box, filed in a specially designated place, the fact is, if you ask me for something I can guarantee you I can put my hand on it and don’t spend time searching for missing of-

outdoors is to echo the colour scheme giving that small garden a larger feel.

Or here’s an idea folks – simply stand back, throw your eye around the garden, decide what you need and bin what you don’t by hiring a skip. I mean, if the task of doing up your outdoor space all seems too overwhelming it’s probably because it is and this spring, you need to decide if you want to keep those broken window display boxes sprouting year round weeds, that wooden crate dumped in the corner, the tree that fell down during the winter storms and never got removed or chopped up for firewood…stop procrastinating and do it now!

• Removal of old Windows and Doors • C2 Compliant contact us to avail of the Home Renovation Incentive Scheme • All Fitters fully insured • Timber, PVC, Aluclad and Aluminium Windows and Doors • V Welded and Mechanically Welded Frames • Double and Triple Glazed CONTACT 090-6626753 / 01-4626671 • www.seandoylewindows.ie • info@seandoylewindows.ie ficial documents or other items. Sure aren’t I superefficient altogether!

So let’s use this wonderful spring-time weather that we’re promised to get organised by making a small start this week, starting with the areas below.

Clear out your closets!

Sort through your bedlin-

ROBERT FLYNN The Square, Castlerea • Tel: 094 96 20028

Light Hardware, Beekeeping Equipment, Fishing Tackle, Shooting, Horticultural Supplies, Off-Licence, Key Cutting • Onion Sets, Shallots, Seed Potatoes, Kerr Pinks, Records, Golden Wonders, Setanta Blight Resistant Potatoes, Early Seed Potatoes, Homeguard, Duke of York, Sharpes Express, May Queens, Aran Victors, Wireworm Spray, Leather Jacket Spray, Carrot Root Fly Spray.

• Cabbage Plants, York and Common, Greyhound, Primo, Broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, Carrot, Cauliflower, Lettuce and Scallion plants.

• Grass Seed Acres and Half Acres, White Clover, Fodder Beet Seed, Seed Oats and Mortone • Round-up Special Offer: 5ltr only €39; 20ltr €99.

While stocks last.

• Loose vegetable seeds half the price of pre-packed seed, lawn sand, Sulphate of Iron for Moss, 3-in-1 Feed Weed and Moss Killer.

• See our largest ever range of Fishing Tackle 7ft rod, reel and line only €20.

Fishing Permits 2016 season.

• Catridges, Bullets, Firearms, Key Cutting, Fax and Colour Photocopying Service.

• Watch Battery and Strap replacement service, while you wait

All at Robert Flynn’s The Square, Castlerea

en and ditch the shoddy, well-worn ones keeping a maximum of just two sets per bed. Do the same with curtains and towels.

Make-up bags: You’d be surprised at the amount of passed-their-expiry-date foundations, mascaras and eye liners people manage to accumulate; each one generating disgusting bacteria lurking at the end of your make-up bag; and believe it or not, this can be harmful to your skin. So, if your mascara is more than three months in use, replace it, if your foundation has been around for more than a year, bin it; time you got a new one, and if you’re still wearing lippy, blusher and eyeshadows from two years ago, well, it’s clear you haven’t been

keeping up with contour queen Kim Kardashian.

Undies Drawer: If your underwear drawer is a graveyard for faded knickers and thongs you wore just the once back in 1995 – you know, the ones that itched and garrotted your bits in places you didn’t even know you had bits – then get merciless and purge yourself by emptying your drawer onto your bed, banishing all the ones that don’t fit, have stretched elastics or that now resemble grey dish cloths; pop them into a bin, ask yourself what you were thinking when you bought them and spritz your drawer with some nice, refreshing lavender spray, then get yourself down to the town and do a restock today!

GATELY GARDENING • Landscaping • Patios • General Maintenance FOUR ROADS, CO. ROSCOMMON

Contact Liam on (086) 8749550 or (090) 66 27496

LOTS MORE OFFERS IN STORE

25

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

Ballinlough Centenary Commemorations a success Large crowds turned out at Ballinlough over the Easter weekend to participate in the 1916-2016 Centenary Commemorations.

On Saturday evening, proceedings commenced with relatives of Pat Glynn, Michael Glavey and Michael Keane, who were killed in an ambush at the burning of the barracks in Ballinlough in September 1920, unveiling names on the three streets in their honour.

Following this ceremony, histori-

an Noel Campbell, from Castlebar, gave a talk on national historical events over the century, followed by a reading of a poem, named ‘The Barracks at Ballinlough’, by Kevin Quinn, a relative of Michael Glavey.

On Sunday, a special commemorative Mass, celebrated

by Fr. J Feeney, the parish priest of Ballinlough, assisted by Fr. Michael Glynn, from Mullaghmore, who is nephew of Com-

mandant Pat Glynn, was held.

It was followed by a parade and colour party from Michael Glavey’s GAA club, to The Square, where a specially commissioned proclamation stone was unveiled, followed by the reading of the Proclamation and the Roll of Honour and raising of the Tricolour over the monument.

On Sunday night, a pagent entitled ‘Away Today, Ablaze Tonight, recreating the tragic events in

Ballinlough’, was performed in the White House Hotel.

The committee are extremely grateful and wish to acknowledge the support and financial help received from Roscommon County Council and to Richie Farrell, the county librarian, and staff of Roscommon County Council, which enabled the entire weekend of commemorations to be a memorable and successful occasion.

newsbriefs

Francis Kelly receiving the Michael Naughton Club Person of the Year Shield from Kevin McGeeney, club secretary of Athleague-Tremane minor hurling club.

Lecture on Redmond and Home Rule A meeting of the Co. Roscommon Historical & Archaeological Society will take place on Tuesday, 12th April in the Percy French Hotel in Strokestown and a lecture will follow by Dermot Meleady entitled ‘John Redmond of the Irish Party and the pursuit of Home Rule’.

A number of lectures at a seminar commemorating 1916 under the auspices of the society will take place on Saturday, 16th April with registration at 9.30 am in the County Library, Roscommon. Admission is free.

Contact Jim Ganly at 090 6626400 or jpganly@eircom. net. All welcome.

Keeping Castlecoote clean this spring

Photographs from Ballinlough’s commemorations of the 1916 Rising over Easter weekend.

The annual Spring Clean took place last Saturday in Castlecoote. Rubbish was picked up on all approach roads and a lot of litter was collected such as bottles, cans and paper boxes. It was another successful day but it’s also important to remember to dispose of litter properly in order to keep our town clean. Thanks to all our volunteers who turned up for the Spring Clean and to Roscommon County Council for collecting all the bags.

Trinity Arts Centre Church gate collections Trinity Arts Centre’s annual Church Gate Collection will take place this weekend (9th and 10th of April) at Churches in Castlerea, Trien and Cloonboniffe.

Your support for Trinity Arts is greatly appreciated. All donations received go towards the ongoing running costs and maintenance of this beautifully restored building.

Trinity Arts Centre is a volunteer managed project and is dedicated to the development of this project as a centre for arts, culture and heritage for Castlerea and west Roscommon. Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ trinityarts or visit or website at www.castlereaarts.com.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION There are two places in Scripture where the curious detail of a “charcoal fire” is mentioned.

One is in today’s Gospel, where the Apostles return from fishing to find bread and fish warming on the fire.

The other is in the scene in the High Priest’s courtyard on Holy Thursday, where Peter and some guards and slaves warm themselves while Jesus is being interrogated inside (see John 18:18).

At the first fire, Peter denied knowing Jesus three times, as Jesus had predicted (see John 13:38; 18:15-18, 25-27).

Today’s charcoal fire becomes the scene of Peter’s repentance, as three times Jesus asks him to make a profession of love. Jesus’ thrice repeated

command “feed My sheep” shows that Peter is being appointed as the shepherd of the Lord’s entire flock, the head of His Church (see also Luke 22:32).

Jesus’ question: “Do you love me more than these?” is a pointed reminder of Peter’s pledge to lay down his life for Jesus, even if the other Apostles might weaken (see John 13:37; Matthew 26:33; Luke 22:33).

Jesus then explains just what Peter’s love and leadership will require, foretelling Peter’s death by crucifixion (“you will stretch out your hands”).

Before His own death, Jesus had warned the Apostles that they would be hated as He was hated, that they would suffer as He suffered

(see Matthew 10:16-19,22; John 15:18-20; 16:2).

We see the beginnings of that persecution in today’s First Reading. Flogged as Jesus was, the Apostles nonetheless leave “rejoicing that they have been found worthy to suffer.”

Their joy is based on their faith that God will change their “mourning into dancing,” as we sing in today’s Psalm. By their sufferings, they know they will be counted worthy to stand in heaven before “the Lamb that was slain,” a scene glimpsed in today’s Second Reading (see also Revelation 6:9-11).

– Dr Scott Hahn, www.salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

Pictured are Cathal Danahar and Ann Walsh from Castlerea who were married in Gortaganny Church and celebrated their wedding at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Saturday last.

26

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Celebrating First Holy Communion and Confirmation

When it comes to that outfit for your child, remember, less is more! < MIRIAM KERINS

L Chefs Rolling Buff

et Lunch This all you can eat bŭe t includes an ama]ing sel ection of cold and hot starters, main courses, accompan iments and desserts. Children’s menu options also includ ed. €23.95 per adult / €7.95 per child FREE ENTERTAINMEN T.

.. · Big Screen for The Gam e of the Day or Kids Movie · Balloon Modelling and Face Painting · Colouring Station · Kiddies Disco · Bounci ng Castle (weather depend ent) · Free Gift for Celebratio n Child · Celebration Chi ld Goes Free

win!

...1 Night family sta y in our Sister Hot el Crowne Plaza Dundal k PLUS a family pas s to Tayto Park or Funtasia!

Terms and Conditions apply.

Email: events@athlonespringshotel.com

adies, you’ve heard the term, you are what you wear; and, while your outfit will have a significant effect on your confidence and self-esteem, and while I would always encourage anyone to slip into whatever makes them feel comfortable and fabulous, please, I urge you, when choosing your clothing for your eight-year-old’s First Holy Communion or your teenage child’s Confirmation, keep in mind that less is more!

I only say this because last year when my granddaughter made her Holy Communion up in Dublin, and while some proud mammies did indeed keep the ‘less is more’ adage in mind, many of them went a tad further by adding the…’and none is absolutely perfect’ to the pot, taking it to the extreme by forgetting to don the bra; effectively throwing all caution to the wind. However the words ‘time’ and ‘place’ spring to mind, as does the question, ‘don’t you have any mirrors in that house?’

You see, while walking in gravity-defying heels and slipping into a little black dress complete with a neckline plunged to your belly button will do wonders for the ego, and believe me I know, when it comes to the solemnity of the occasion that is the First Holy Communion and the Confirmation, covering the essentials is always going to be the order of the day; after all you are mark-

ing your child’s milestone life occasion, not trying to attract toyboys on Tinder!

After all that, if you’re still stuck for something suitable to wear, let’s take a look at your options.

A stylish after-six, mid-length cocktail-style dress boasting a pencil-shaped skirt won’t set you wrong; it’s also value for money because this is an item of clothing you can wear again and again; so, when shopping, think Victoria Beckham and Audrey Hepburn.

Okay, the pair’s images have shifted considerably, with Hepburn’s gamine charm, still, to this day going unrivalled – even when wearing those beloved tomboy staples, meaning she’ll always win the day for me, but both ladies are recognised as ‘style icons’ – and whether you opt for the duo’s form-shaping pencil-skirts teamed with a Peter Pan collar blouse, or the full-skirted Afternoon Tea dress with the little waisted belt as your capsule outfit, while attaching your own personal style spin to the look, then it practi-

cally becomes a no-brainer when getting creative with your overall ‘gorgeous mother of the child’ ensemble!

Now I’m not suggesting you go out and splash your entire week’s household budget on a designer outfit, that would just be silly, especially when this icon style solution has been rolled out across all high street chain stores as well as chic local home-grown Roscommon boutiques.

In addition, if you’re a dedicated runner/Dolly shoe wearer, then don’t try to wobble your way through the day in a pair of six-inch stilettos when you could opt for a fashionable ‘flatform.’ They’re super-stylish and seen on just about every street-smart celebrity currently gracing Instagram; however, in order to make sure you don’t come across as looking too retro at your child’s upscale event, consider teaming your ‘flatforms’ with a classically cut trouser suit featuring a slim cigarette leg; now that’ll take the eye right out of yer wan from down the road’s head!

27

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Celebrating First Holy Communion and ConďŹ rmation

When choosing a ConďŹ rmation Suit, give the kids a say in their big day! < MIRIAM KERINS

I

remember my youngest daugh-

ter, a complete tomboy, now a gorgeous flight attendant and part-time fashion modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s confirmation clothing request; it was â&#x20AC;&#x153;can I wear jeans and a top mam?â&#x20AC;? To which my answer was â&#x20AC;&#x153;sure, why not!â&#x20AC;?

You see, when kids reach a certain age â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and this usually happens before theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re twelve â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I feel itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to allow them to choose how they wish to look. A kind of freedom to express themselves, if you like.

Now donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get me wrong, I mean, if the request is they wish to wear their dirty pyjamas to school, then you need to have a chat with them and arrive at a compromise, but you get my drift. When my child was Baptised, she had to wear white, when she made her First Holy Communion, she had to wear

whiteâ&#x20AC;Śwell she wore ivory, and now, I did feel it was important for me that with regard to my childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s final religious rite, where, according to the Church, she is coming into â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;adulthoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, she had a right to decide what she, rather than the Church, wanted to wear.

Now we are not a religious family but, in keeping with convention, (and due to a lack of choice available back then), when my kids, now adults, went to school, they attended traditional Catholic schools and were, in the same way as their dad and me, raised as Catholics; this meant there was normally a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;dress codeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; when attending certain functions or events.

Now, while I know jeans are classed as casual attire, and while I did insist she wore a nice designer pair, her school principal very cleverly ruled that all of the kids

Alterations for big days at The Zip Yard Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s their Communion or Confirmation Day, or even a school day, slight alterations can make a big difference to how the children involved look and feel.

On their big day the last thing they need is to feel

uncomfortable, and the last thing you want is to be worried about it.

At The Zip Yard, Irishtown, Athlone, we do alterations to suit special days â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and every day. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quick and affordable, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one less thing you

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receiving the Sacrament wear an identical white robe over their clothing whilst in the Church, meaning it took immense pressure of us parents when it came to feeling obligated into splashing out on an expensive, never to be worn again, suit.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not saying donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get your child a suit, and if a three-piece is what they want to wear, then let them, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go having one tailor-made â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I mean, your son is not a miniature Conor McGregor and your daughter is no Diane Keaton! So, keep it in perspective, because I can assure you, once the photographs are finished and the family have sat down to enjoy a nice meal, your kid will look like people have wiped tomato sauce and mayo on him/her â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t care what line the washing powder manufacturers spin youâ&#x20AC;Śtomato sauce is hell to remove!

Have a fabulous day.

)RU )LUVW +RO\ &RPPXQLRQ DQG &RQILUPDWLRQ DOWHUDWLRQV ZH KDYH LW DOO +RO\ &RPPXQLRQ &RQILUPDWLRQ 2Q WKHLU ELJ GD\ LW V VR LPSRUWDQW WKH\ ORRN DQG IHHO WKHLU EHVW 7KHLU FRPPXQLRQ GUHVV RU FRQILUPDWLRQ RXWILW PD\ MXVW QHHG D VPDOO DOWHUDWLRQ WR OHDYH \RX DQG WKHP ZLWK RQH OHVV FRQFHUQ Here at the Zip Yard we can make sure that any alterations that may be needed can be done quickly and affordably, leaving you to look after all their +RO\ &RPPXQLRQ RU &RQILUPDWLRQ needs..

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28

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

NewsPeople

Large crowds pay respects to the late Eileen Duke Large crowds paid their respects last Sunday and Monday to the late Eileen Duke, a well-known and very popular member of the community in Roscommon town, whose sad passing occurred on Friday, April 1st last.

The late Eileen Duke, of Lanesboro Street, Roscommon, was predeceased over forty years ago by her husband, Seamus. Aged in her mid-eighties, her death followed a relatively short illness which she bore with typical dignity and courage.

Predeceased by her husband in

1971, she raised a young family with a great resolve that was backboned by an unflinching faith in God. At Monday’s Funeral Mass, Fr. Eugene McLoughlin (PP) paid tribute to Eileen Duke’s love of prayer and to her great, unstinting faith.

The late Eileen Duke is remembered as a loving wife, mother, sister and grandmother, and also as an enthusiastic community activist.

A deeply religious person, she was active in many Church-related areas.

The late Eileen Duke was also to

the forefront of social and sporting activities. She was a keen golfer and an enthusiastic member of RosArt ’93, a local art group.

Most of all, she was a determined and loving mother who raised her five children following the untimely passing – when in his forties – of her husband, Seamus.

In addition to raising a young family, Eileen Duke worked for a number of years in the Sacred Heart Hospital in Roscommon, where she is remembered by patients, staff and relatives of service-users with great fondness.

Two women entered a shop in Main Street, Castlerea, on Tuesday afternoon and robbed hundreds of euro worth of cosmetics, Gardaí said. The incident happened at 3.30 pm. Anyone with information in relation to the incident has been asked to contact Castlerea Garda Station on 094-9621630.

Castlerea GP hits out over treatment of cancer patient

Potential burglary foiled at Cloonfad

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Three men trespassed into a plant hire business at Cloonfad on Friday, April 1 – but fled the scene after they were disturbed by a guard dog. The incident occurred at around 4.30 am in the west Roscommon area. The men escaped in a silver car in the direction of Dunmore, Co. Galway. Gardaí, who believe they intended robbing equipment from the yard, have asked anyone with information on the incident to contact Castlerea Garda Station on 094-9621630.

A Castlerea GP’s patient is being treated at Roscommon Hospital because he refused to return to the emergency department at University Hospital Galway (UHG).

Dr. Greg Kelly said that his male patient, who has cancer, had developed complications after chemotherapy and had to be referred back to UHG for intravenous treatment.

However, he refused to do so because of the likelihood of spending days on a trolley and the prospect of long delays

newsbriefs Women rob cosmetics from Castlerea shop

Spring Clean-Up in Croghan Cavetown Residents, Cavetown, Croghan are having their Spring Anti-Litter Clean-Up on Saturday, 16th of April.

People are asked to meet at the Amenity Area at 10 am where refuse sacks, etc. will be supplied.

Go for Life games in Kilbride on April 19 Roscommon Sports Partnership has announced there will be a county Go for Life Games Workshop on Tuesday, 19th April, from 10.30 am to 1.30 pm in Four Mile House in Kilbride. All groups are invited to come along and play the games of Lobbers, Flisk and Scidils in a friendly atmosphere. Lobbers is based on the game of Boules, Flisk is based on Horseshoe pitching and Scidils is based on Bowling. The emphasis of the Games is on participation and fun. Tea/coffee and biscuits will be available at break time. This year’s event takes place on the 11th June. If you are interested or want to take part, please contact 090 6630853.

at the emergency department.

Dr. Kelly said: “He stated that under no circumstances would he go back. He just couldn’t face it under any circumstances.”

Dr. Kelly said that, when patients with cancer develop complications, they should be immediately granted a bed in a hospital, instead of having to be “put right through the hoops when they go into A&E”.

“There is no need whatsoever to put them through the usual casualty system,” Dr. Kelly said.

“It is terrible to have a very sick patient to go

in, queue up for hours and then sleep on a trolley in a corridor for a few days.”

Dr. Kelly described such treatment as “inhumane”.

“An animal shouldn’t be treated like that, never mind a human being, in any civilised society that calls itself a first-world country,” he said.

Dr. Kelly made contact with Roscommon Hospital to ask it to admit him.

Dr. Kelly said that the patient was admitted to Roscommon Hospital on Wednesday, March 30, and was being well looked after.

Minister for Rural Affairs essential – Murphy Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy has highlighted

Michael Fitzmaurice TD was on hand to launch Cystic Fibrosis National Awareness Week, which takes place next week. Next Friday (April 15th) volunteers will be selling purple roses in Castlerea, Co. Roscommon to raise much needed funds for cystic fibrosis services.

the need for the creation of a Minister for Rural Affairs and stressed that it is essential for rural development and recovery.

Deputy Murphy said that Eamon O’Cuiv TD (FF) was the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and that the position was abolished in 2011 at the change of government.

During the last government, the Minister for Rural Affairs was a junior ministry, but Deputy Murphy believes it should be a full Cabinet post.

“Rural Ireland has not benefited from the so-called ‘recovery’ and is still losing its youth to foreign shores, thus giving an inaccurate reading of the Live Register,

where young people are not gaining paid employment but simply forced into relocating.

“In the past, the rural affairs part of the job has been enveloped into a ministerial department where it may not have been given the priority that it now needs.

“For too long the rural population has felt left out in the cold and in many respects it has been.

“A dedicated minister who is tasked to deal with the complex issues Rural Ireland has is a necessity and cannot be forfeited in any round table negotiations and should not be lumped into any other ministerial department, which has been the case since 2011.”

The late Eileen Duke is mourned by her sons Seamus, Frank and Declan, daughters Mairead and Deirdre, further relatives and a wide circle of friends.

The large crowds that attended the funeral services was testimony to the esteem felt for the deceased and the Duke family. Removal from her residence to Smyth’s Funeral Home on Sunday evening last was followed by Funeral Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Monday. Burial followed in St. Coman’s Cemetery. May she rest in peace.

Local volunteers pictured at the Ballyleague Seven Signatories tree-planting ceremony in commemoration of the 1916 Rising.

Village Renewal and Tidy Towns AGM in Ballyleague The Annual General Meeting of Ballyleague Village Renewal and Tidy Towns will take place next Monday (11th of April) at 8.30 pm in St. Faithleach’s GAA clubhouse.

This will be a review of the past 12 months and a look forward to a new 5-year development plan for the village of Ballyleague, which will include plans for Roscommon road, the riverside park and the north harbour development. Local input and support is crucial so please come along and support next Monday night.

Marking the 1916 commemoration is Oran native and sponsor of Roscommon GAA, Sean Mulryan, who planted tree at the Oran GAA grounds. Also into the photograph are Seamus McDermott and Gerry Corcoran, Oran GAA parks committee.

29

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Weekend

PEOPLE

FACES and PLACES:

See pages 31 – 33

Dive Into the Blue at JJ’s in Roscommon

This Saturday night (April 9th), Into the Blue will play JJ Harlow’s in Roscommon town. The band play a mix of acoustic and country-styled blues and feature keyboards, guitar and harmonica for an authentic sound.

Members include Martin O’Hara on guitar and vocals, Terry Benson on keyboard and vocals and Eamonn Hatton on harmonica and vocals.

Martin, a native of Edinburgh but now residing in the musical town of Knockcroghery, recently sat down for a quick Q and A with Dan Dooner.

Okay Martin tell us what makes the perfect night’s entertainment?

That’s easy! Good company, good music and a well-run, friendly pub.

Your perfect weekend getaway is…

It has to be an old European city, somewhere like Seville, for the food and music. A bit of flamenco, jazz or gypsy music would go down really well!

Into the Blue are allowed to plan their own dream gig, who’s the support act?

It has to be The Stones!

Recommend one piece of music or one classic album for the people of Roscommon…

The 1974 album ‘Sonny and Brownie’ by Sonny Terry and Brownie McGee. What can visitors to JJ’s expect this Saturday night?

They will experience upbeat country blues played with soul.

Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon were Leonie Collins and Saoirse Flanagan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Murtagh’s, Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night last were Katie Ryan, Jenny Wilson and Heather Donaldson.

Picture: Andrew Fox

‘Madame de Markievicz On Trial’ at Arts Centre Madame de Markievicz On Trial is a drama centered around Constance Markievicz depicting an event in Dublin at Easter in 1916 when a policeman was fatally shot. It is set in a courtroom and a prison cell during the autumn of 1917, and the dialogue is largely based on the actual extensive speeches made

by Markievicz during this time.

The play has a cast of six actors, Barbara Dempsey as Madame de Markievicz and Neill Fleming as the Prosecutor. Apart from the prosecutor, all the characters are based on actual people and each one is impressive in their strength of character.

William May, the prosecutor and sole fictional character in the drama, is the Devil’s Advocate.

He trawls through all aspects of Madame’s life and times, from her birth to 1917, to challenge the misinformation created by post-1916 heresay.

Completing the cast are

Amy O’Dwyer, Andrea Kelly, Siofra O’Meara and Ian Meehan.

The testimonies of the witnesses, including Dr Kathleen Lynn, Helena Molony, Margaret Skinnider, Geraldine Fitzgerald and William O’Brien of the ITGWU, are interwoven to show

that Constance de Markievicz was a normal multi-dimensional woman in contrast to the usual one-dimensional icon frequently presented.

The audience will be the ultimate judge, because the conclusion of this remarkable production enables the audience to

decide the final verdict, innocent or guilty.

Madame de Markievicz On Trial is written by Ann Matthews and directed by Anthony Fox and takes to the arts centre stage next Tuesday (April 12th) at 8 pm. Booking now on 090 66 25824/www.roscommonartscentre.ie.

30

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

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

Best wishes to the Roscommon team and management

minnows

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

Saturday 9th

Into The Blue

The Mountpleasant Inn 27/28 Lower Mountpleasant Avenue, Dublin 6

**Live Music Saturday, 9th April** Phone: (01) 4445139 Follow us on Facebook Proprietor: J Lyster

Hamrock’s

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

Week Commencing Fri 8th—Thurs 14th

Movie Times

A WARRIOR’S TAIL (PG)

12:45 (KMC); 14:30

BATMAN v SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE (12A)

16:30; 18:40; 21:00

EDDIE THE EAGLE (12A)

14:20; 19:10

HARDCORE HENRY (18)

17:15; 19:35; 21:45

THE HUNTSMAN: WINTER’S WAR (12A)

14:00; 16:40; 21:30

MIDNIGHT SPECIAL (12A)

14:50; 19:20; 21:40

MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING 2 (12A)

16:30; 21:45

NORM OF THE NORTH (G)

12:10 (KMC); 14:15

ZOOTROPOLIS (PG)

16:20; 18:40

Sunday 10th

Blues session with

Strange Brew

Saturday, 9th April:

Billy Corcoran The Country Ballroom

TULSK INN Saturday, 9th April -

Padraig Farrell and Fanfare Admission €5.

Sunday, 10th April -

Gerry Galvin Pool Final Pictured is Saoirse Murray, Roscommon who won the Amhrain Bearla Mná 12-15 age category at the County Fleadh in Elphin.

Hilary Byrne, Rita Lydon-Lenz (UIC 2nd vice-president), MSGR. Kevin Flanagan, Jimmy Naughton (Club Rossie).

County Roscommon Society of New York annual Dinner The County Roscommon Society of New York held its 87th annual dinner dance on Sunday, March 6th at Riccardo’s in As-

toria, Queens. This year’s honorees were Colonel Michael Lyons and John Dobey.

(Photographs by Margaret Purcell-Roddy)

* 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

Eamonn, John, Amanda, Sean and Sinead Dobey.

Businesses: Reach your target market!

18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

31

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

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

Countdown begins to Roscommon Rose of Tralee 2016 T

he official launch

of the Roscommon Rose of Tralee 2016 took place at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon recently.

Following a red carpet and champagne reception, the Roses and Escorts from all over County Roscommon were unveiled.

Chairperson of the Roscommon Rose of Tralee Centre Yvonne CorriganDonohue welcomed everybody and thanked the Grealy family for sponsoring the launch.

Yvonne stated that the Roscommon Rose of Tralee had once again received unprecedented support from throughout the county of Roscommon and from Roscommon town itself. She thanked the businesses involved for sponsorship and urged everybody to “shop local”.

Callington Ltd., operated by local man Martin Con-

neally, and Offaly’s John Drea, were revealed as the main sponsor for 2016.

Martin Conneally wished Yvonne and the Roscommon Rose of Tralee, Roses and Escorts the best of luck with the event.

The 2015 Roscommon Rose of Tralee Sarah Murphy and 2015 Most Popular Escort Liam Finneran, who couldn’t be in attendance, were complimented and thanked by Yvonne.

New committee members Sharon Taylor and Sara Teal were introduced and outgoing committee members Amanda Hoey and Louise Conneally-Dowd were thanked for their commitment in the past.

Sinead McDermott, who couldn’t be present, was also thanked.

Three Judges will be tasked with selecting the 2016 Roscommon Rose of Tralee and they are Nuala Cahill, the 1994 Galway Rose of Tralee, Area Sales

2016 Roses and Escorts pictured at the recent launch in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon.

Manager at JFC Manufacturing Co., Paul Cuttle, Director at Cuttle Consulting Ltd. and Patricia Corrigan, Consultancy Director at Padanee Bridal and Cou-

ture & Consultancy, Carrick-on-Shannon.

The individual and group interviews will take place at Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon on April 23rd.

Every year the Centre sponsor a local charity or worthy cause. Yvonne announced that ‘A Miracle for Doireann’ is this year’s chosen worthy cause. 5-

year-old Doireann Martin from Frenchpark, Co. Roscommon was recently diagnosed with a rare brain tumour.

The Roscommon Rose

of Tralee Ball and Selection Night is taking place at the Abbey Hotel on Saturday, May 7th. Today FM’s Fergal D’Arcy will be compere.

(Above) Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon were Kevin Bohan, Jade Cooke, Lisa Coyle and Kenneth Hanley. Picture: Andrew Fox The cast of the Galway Percy French Society and Patrick Kavanagh (Western Assoc)., standing: Pat O’Sullivan, Connie O’Sullivan, Terry Coogan, Ger Considine, Dolores Wright, Eamon Shevlin, Christy O’Carroll. Seated: Ida Ni Fhaolain, Deirdre Curley, Margaret Curley, and Cepta Byrne. Pic: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

The Arts Centre keeps the home fires burning

A

s part of the Ros-

common Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme and in memory of World War I, the Galway Percy French Society and Patrick Kavanagh Western Association, hosted a concert of music and dance, poetry, song and story, inspired by the Great War, entitled: Keep the Home Fires Burning at Roscommon Arts Centre recently.

The event was also part of the Roscommon

Diaspora and Town Twinning/Sister Cities Partnerships programme, which took place recently.

The presentation captured the thoughts and narratives of renowned war and soldier poets including Rupert Brooke, Laurence Binyon, Margaret Cole, Mae HerschelClark, Tom Kettle, Francis Ledwidge, John McCrae, Patrick McGill and W.B Yeats. The unforgettable melodies of Jerome Kern, Ivor Novello, Jack

Judge, Eric Bogle, Fred Weatherly, Harry Lauder, John Keegan Casey and Cormac McConnell were captured by Deirdre Curley, contralto, Pat O’Sullivan, tenor, and Eamon Shevlin, bass baritone.

There was also wry humour from the pen of Percy French! Patrick Kavanagh, ten-years-old when war was declared, was also remembered.

The cast included Eamon Shevlin and Pat

O’Sullivan, who are members of Galway Choral Association and Deirdre Curley, who is a member of Ancór Chamber Choir, Limerick.

Music from areas around the world touched by the war was provided by violinist, Ide Ni Fhaolain, Cepta Byrne on button accordion accompanied by Deirdre Curley on piano, with dance performances from Pat and Connie O’Sullivan, Dolores Wright and Terry Coogan.

(Right) Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon were Maggie Kinsley and Shane Nolan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon were Eimear Carthy, Ciara McIntyre, Sally Reidy and Rachel Conroy. Picture: Andrew Fox

32

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

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

Pictured in The Hollywood, Roscommon were Maria Gomez and Maria Rodriguez.

(Above) Pictured in The Hollywood, Roscommon were Annmarie Ryan, Ciara Keane, Olga Kenny and Rachel Smyth.

Faces & Places Photographs: Andrew Fox

(Right) Pictured in The Hollywood, Roscommon were Molly Kerr, Keith Gordon and Lauren Byrne.

Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in The Hollywood, Roscommon were Aoife Garvey, Regan Naughton and Ola Gliwinska.

Pictured recently in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Ciarán McDermott and Séan Mulry.

Pictured in The Hollywood, Roscommon were Lucia, Gandara, Nati Rincon, Bea Alvarez and Ida Niola.

Pictured recently in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Jackie Grealy, Jade Cooke and Lisa Coyle.

Pictured recently in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon were Tony Waldron, Dawn Allen and Martin Keane.

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

33

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

Pictured in Murtagh’s, Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night last were Jessie O’Reilly, Emma Cooney and Nicky O’Reilly. Picture: Andrew Fox

(Above) Pictured in Murtagh’s, Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night last were Shirley Kelly, Verna Wilson, Jenny Wilson, April Kelly and Deirdre Donaldson.

(Left) Pictured in Murtagh’s, Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night last were Ruth Walsh and Orla Fitzgerald.

Faces & Places Photographs: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Murtagh’s, Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night last were Louise Barnes, Sharon Phelan and Sandra Mahon.

Pictured in Murtagh’s, Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night last were Margaret O’Reilly, Mary Tackleberry, Yvonne De Baire and Veronica Marr.

Pictured in Murtagh’s, Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night last were Lorna England and Jenny Wilson.

Pictured in Murtagh’s, Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night last were Mary O’Gorman and Mairéad Ward.

Pictured in Murtagh’s, Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night last were Susan McCafferty, Amanda McCafferty, Susan Blee, Michelle O’Neill and Jacqueline Cawley.

Pictured in Murtagh’s, Carrick-on-Shannon on Friday night last were Lisa Tunstead, Louise Barnes, Margaret Ryan, Lavinia Mulraney and Sandra Mahon.

34

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

FarmingPeople

(Serving Farmers for over 56 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

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

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

Mid Spring Special Sale of Bullocks Tomorrow Friday, April 8th at 11 a.m.

85 pens of Bullocks on offer Also Heifers & Dry Cows ---------------

Weanlings & Suckler Cows Tuesday next 12th April at 5 p.m -----------------------

Mid Spring Special Sale of Heifers Friday April 15th at 11 a.m.

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. this Thursday 7th April Also Bullocks & Dry Cows -----------------Saturday, April 16th

Spring Beef Shorthorn Show & Sale 23 Females & 10 Males Show at 9.30 a.m. Sale at 12 Noon Enquiries 0504 26806 or 086 0461442 ---------

Mid Spring Special Sale of Weanlings Tuesday, April 19th at 5p.m.

Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 12th, Wednesday, April 13th & Thursday, April 14th --------------Tuesday, April 19th at 6 p.m.

– Special Entry of 30 Excellent Quality Cows with mostly Belgian Blue calves at foot and running with Lim Bull the past 2 months.

Also P.B. Belgian Blue Bull (2014) Photos on our website & facebook --------Friday, April 22nd at 11 a.m.

Extra Special Sale of Bullocks Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 12th, Wednesday, April 13th & Thursday, April 14th Also Heifers & 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 ---------------------

Sheep Scanning Service Each Wednesday 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

Live streaming of sales from Ring 1 see link on our facebook or website Email: roscommonmart@gmail.com Visit our website: www.roscommonmart.ie

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

Contact

At the launch of the 2016 Zurich Farm Farming Independent Farmer of the Year Awards are (L-r) Darragh McCullough, Assistant Editor, The Farming Independent, Noel McCall, The 2015 Farmer of the Year, Michael Doyle, Head of Sales & Agri Business, Zurich Insurance and Minister for Agriculture, Food & the Marine, Simon Coveney TD. The 2016 awards are open for entry at www. farmeroftheyear.ie.

Macra na Feirme Information Night

Final call for entries for Farmer of the Year awards Roscommon farmers are being called to make sure they’re in the running for the 3rd annual national Farmer of the Year Awards, due to take place in Dublin’s Ballsbridge Hotel on Friday, May 20th.

The Awards recognise excellence in the Irish farming industry and shine a light on one of the most successful and important sectors within the Irish economy.

There are eight categories available for entry, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award and a Grand Prix Award for the overall Farmer of the Year for 2016. Award winners will also share a prize fund of €20,000.

The Awards are free to enter and farmers can nominate themselves or be nominated by a third party. Full details of categories and how to enter are available at www. farmeroftheyear.ie.

Commenting on this year’s awards, Michael Doyle, Head of Sales & Agri Business for Zurich Insurance commented: “We’re delighted to see the high level of interest so far in this year’s Farmer of the Year Awards and look forward to seeing this year’s Roscommon entries.”

Entries will be accepted online or by post and the closing date for entries is tomorrow (Friday, April 8th).

Castlerea Mart Report 31st of March: 900 cattle on offer on Thursday last. Store cattle of all types continue to be a very strong trade driven by strong farmer buying at the moment and also export demand.

The heifer and dry cow sections reported a steady trade with prices similar to last week while in the calf and breeding stock section good clearances were reported.

Sample prices – heifers: Lm 415kgs €1140, Lm 385kgs €1020, AA 480kgs €1270, Ch 555kgs €1475, Sim 492kgs €1235, Ch 470kgs €1225, Ch 540kgs €1430. Dry cows: Lmx 805kgs €1640, Ch 660kgs

€1160, RLm 715kgs €1215, Fr 540kgs €725, Ch 685kgs €1295.

Cows with calves at foot made from €1190 to €2310 for a Sm heifer and her heifer calf at foot. Springers made from €940 to €1660 per head. Dairy cows on offer made from €1000 to €1100 per head.

Calves: Lm hfr €350, AA bull €270, Hr hfr €360, AA bull €270, Her bull €360, Si bull €355, BHer bull €280.

Weanling bulls: BBx 290kgs €960, Ch 245kgs €865, Ch 285kgs €880, Ch 320kgs €1005, Ch 335kgs €1040, RLim 330kgs €990, Weanling heifers: Ch

MIDLAND & WESTERN LIVESTOCK IMPROVEMENT SOCIETY LTD. CARRICK ON SHANNON

Where Quality Counts Show & Sale of Quality Pedigree Registered Bulls & Heifers from Top Sires Saturday 9th April –

Angus, Shorthorn & Hereford Bulls & Heifers

290kgs €1045, Lm 270kgs €950, Ch 240kgs €790, Lmx 350kgs €1100, Lm 365kgs €990.

Bullock sale, Monday 28th March: 250 bullocks on offer with prices improved especially for the lighter stores. Bullocks made from €400 to €880 with their weight with an average of €669 over paid.

Sample prices: Ch 380kgs €1095, Lm 475kgs €1355, Ch 535kgs €1375, AA 540kgs €1350, AA 585kgs €1405, Lm 615kgs €1440, Ch 710kgs €1500.

Sales continue at Castlerea Mart with a sale of heifers, cows, calves and weanlings today (Thursday, 7th April) at 11 am.

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

Roscommon Macra na Feirme are holding an Information Night in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon this Friday (April 8th) at 9 pm.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) introduced some new standards and road rules for agricultural vehicles at the start of this year, but there is still confusion amongst many farmers and contractors regarding the implications for their machinery.

The Gardaí and a member of a local Driving School will be present on the night to inform people about these new regulations. Following this we will be talking about setting up our new discussion group. This involves all farmers – whether beef, sheep or dairy – learning new tips and ideas from eachother.

Some meetings will also have guest speakers on different aspects of farming. Come along on the night to find out what Macra na Feirme can do for you.

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

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. (DRAW TAKES PLACE AT 10.30.AM.) ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. 3 RINGS IN OPERATION. YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. FOR SALE ON THURSDAY 14TH APRIL IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR USUAL SALE:

12 CONTINENTAL SUCKLER COWS WITH CONTINENTAL CALVES AT FOOT

Saturday 16th April –

ALSO 7 SPRINGING COWS DUE MID APRIL ONWARDS TO PB CH BULL. ALSO FOR SALE 27 MONTH OLD PBR LIMOUSIN 5 STAR BULL, SIRE: WILODGE TONKA.

JOHN GREENE

Charolais, Simmental & Limousin Bulls & Heifers

BULLOCK SALE

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

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

Show at 10.00a.m Sale at 12 noon Export Available on the Day Catalogues & Details from Secretary - 086-3883112 email: midlandandwestern@gmail.com

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price guaranteed

TOM ROGERS

BALLINASLOE

Daily collection

Dates for your Diary: May 14th: All Continental Breeds May 21st: Angus, Shorthorn & Hereford June 11th: All Breeds

086 4100508

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

Keep your farm safe

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

35

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

FarmingPeople

Roscommon Macra na Feirme Roscommon Macra na Feirme would like to thank all who attended and supported our 70th Anniversary Dinner Dance Special thanks to our main sponsors Castlerea, Elphin & Roscommon Marts and Tom Tighe Agri Strokestown.

If you would like to join your local Macra na Feirme club please contact Siobhan Sexton on 087 3463828 Pictured attending the recent Roscommon Macra na Feirme 70th Anniversary dinner dance in the Abbey Hotel were (l-r): John O’Beirne Strokestown, Michael Naughton, Roscommon, Maura Quigley, Roscommon Mart, Sean Finan, National President Macra na Feirme, Brendan Egan, Castlerea Mart and Cyril McDermott, Elphin.

Working for young farmers &

rural youth

IFFPG recycling more farm plastics In Co. Roscommon, IFFPG will conduct 9 bring-centres spread right across the county.

A full list of our Bring-centres every year is on our website www.farmplastics.ie or alternatively you can LoCall 1890 300 444.

In addition to silage plastics, IFFPG in partnership with Farm Plastics Recycling is also collecting other farm waste plastics. These plastics include: small fertilizer and feed bags, bulk bag liners, bulk fertilizer and feed bags (liners to be removed), chemical con-

tainers (triple rinsed), netting and twine.

In order to avail of this service, farmers should segregate plastics into the various categories mentioned into used bulk bags.

The recycling fee per bag at the bring-centre is €15 per bulk fertilizer-sized bag.

In 2015 IFFPG collected and recycled over 25,000 tonnes of farm plastics. IFFPG is confident that 2016 will be another very successful year, in terms of service to farmers and recycling rates.

Roscommon Mart Report AAX 455 kgs €1050, HEX 445 kgs €1100, Hex 435 kgs €1120.

Bullocks made from €520 to €895 over. Sample prices: Char X 570 kgs €1465, Lim X 595 kgs €1415, Char X 575 kgs €1370, Hex 640 kgs €1335, 3 Char X 433 kgs €1270, 2 Lim X 512 kgs €1180, AAX 540 kgs €1190, AAX 500 kgs €1150, 2 Lim 475 kgs €1160, 10 Char X 364 kgs €1110, 4 Simm X 493 kgs €1040, 2 AAX , Simm X 525 kgs €1130.

Weanlings – Tuesday April 5th: There was a good entry of stock on offer at last Tuesday’s sale.

There was a brisk trade for heifers with average prices up from the previous week. The price for bull weanlings was on par with last week with a very high clearance of lots. Usual sale for weanlings and suckler cows will be held next Tuesday (April 12th) at 5 pm. Special mid-spring sale of weanlings on Tuesday, April 19th at 5 pm. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm on Thursday, April 14th.

Included in the sale on April 19th is a special entry of 30 excellent quality cows with mostly Belgian Blue calves at foot and running with Lim bull for the last two months. Also Belgian Blue bull for sale.

Weanling heifers made from €475 to €655 over. Sample prices: Lim X 460 kgs €1050, Lim X 435 kgs €1020, Char X 360 kgs €990, Lim X 325 kgs €980, Hex 385 kgs €900, BBX 315 kgs €760, Simm X 315 kgs 780, Char X 275 kgs €900.

Weanling bulls made from €355 to €700 over. Sample prices: Char X 420 kgs €1080, Lim X 415 kgs €1000, Char X 200 kgs €720, AAX 345 kgs €750, ShX 375 kgs €770, Char X 320 kgs €900, AAX 315 kgs €800.Char X 240 kgs €750.

Sheep sale – Wednesday April 6th: There were better numbers on offer this week. There was a lively trade for hoggets with lots fetching up to €135. The numbers of spring lambs coming out are remaining small, however lots made up to €93.50 over their weight. The trade for cast ewes was on par to last week with the majority of lots sold. There was a good number of ewes with lambs at foot on offer with a good demand and high clearance of lots.

Sheep sales continue weekly on Wednesdays at 11 am, yard opens at 8.30 am. Sheep scanning service every Wednesday from 9 to 10 am. Show & Sale of Lambs (in conjunction with Roscommon Lamb Festival) Wednesday, April 27th (see website and adverts for details).

Sample prices: Spring lambs: 49 kgs €131, 43.50 kgs €137.

Ewe hoggets: 47.50 kgs €116, 44.80 kgs €116.50, 49.80 kgs €125, 63.50 kgs €135. Wether hoggets: 45.60 kgs €112, 44 kgs €114, Mixed hoggets: 42.60 kgs €111, 53.30 kgs €130. Cast ewes made from €68 to €150 per lot.

Ewes with twin lambs at foot made up to €250 per unit. Ewes with single lambs at foot made up to €165.

IFFPG FARM PLASTIC RECYCLING BRING CENTRES in association with Farm Plastics Recycling Ltd.

MA HT T

RS TE

Friday, April 1st: There were good numbers of excellent quality stock on offer at last Friday’s sale which included a special sale of breeding heifers. Bullocks sold well with averages of €2.34 per kilo up to a maximum of €3.05 per kilo. Heifers averaged from €2.45 per kilo up to €3.18 per kilo. There was a good entry of dry cows with a brisk trade and a full clearance of lots. Prices ranged from €1.70 per kilo up to €2.25 per kilo.

Sale as usual tomorrow (Friday, April 8th). 87 pens of bullocks on offer, also heifers and dry cows. Yard opens at 7.30 am. All stock must be penned by 10.30 am. Cattle not penned by this time will not be included in the draw. A mid spring sale of heifers will take place next Friday (April 15th) at 11 am. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm on Thursday, April 7th.

Dry cows made from €930 to €1480 per head. Sample prices: Char X 835 kgs €1480, Lim X 725 kgs €1335, Char X 705 kgs €1310, BBX 570 kgs €1280, Simm X 540 kgs €980, Lim X 685 kgs €1230, Simm 710 kgs €1150. Lim X 615 kgs €1040.

Heifers made from €585 to €950 over. Sample prices: Lim X 580 kgs €1530, Char X 565 kgs €1450, Lim X 575 kgs €1385, Lim 555 kgs €1350, Char X 470 kgs €1270, Char X 540 kgs €1390, BBX 475 kgs €1260, Simm 460 kgs €1225, Char X 370 kgs €1175, Lim X 435 kgs €1160. Char X 395 kgs €1125,

WEIG

IFFPG, the national farm plastics recycling scheme, is providing over 230 bring-centre locations nationwide this year where farmers can recycle the full range of farm plastics.

Farmers are advised to bring their silage plastics in loose as usual to the bring-centres. The rate this year for silage plastics is €15 per half tonne with the label code. This represents the most cost efficient recycling service.

REDUCE COSTS

Recycle Silage Plastic €15 per ½ tonne

Keep plastics clean & dry!

with label code and a proof of purchase (Invoice/Sales Docket).

Please ask your supplier for the IFFPG LABEL Code Number.

What else can we Recycle?

A

BULK FERTILISER / MEAL BAGS (Remove Liners) €15

B

SMALL FERTILISER / MEAL BAGS (Incl. Bulk Liners) €15

C

NETTING & TWINE €15

D

DRUMS (Only Triple Rinsed Drums will be ACCEPTED) €15

Categories A-D can be recycled in used Bulk Fertiliser Bags (500kg Bags) with liners removed.

Roscommon Ballaghadereen Green; BallaghaderreenTown, Town, The Fair Green; Tues 19th April (2-5pm)

Athleague, Brian Murray Stone & Quarry; Wed 15th June (2-5pm)

Castlerea Mart; Fri 22nd April

Ballyleague GAA; Fri 17th June (9-1pm)

Boyle, Carrick On Shannon Showgrounds; Mon 16th May

Rooskey, Old Glanbia Factory; Fri 17th June (2-5pm)

Ballydangan, Business Park; Wed 8th June (9-2pm)

Elphin Mart; Thurs 23rd June

Taughmaconnell Community Centre; Wed 15th June (9-1pm)

Opening times: 9am–5pm (Unless otherwise stated).

Call 1890 300 444 www.farmplastics.ie

36

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

PropertyPeople On the books of Pat Hughes & Co

●

PROPERTY SALES ● LETTINGS ● VALUATIONS

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

FINAL OFFERS BY FRIDAY 29TH APRIL

FINAL OFFERS BY FRIDAY 22ND APRIL

Ballymacurley Ballinaheglish Co. Roscommon

c.16 acres Prime Lands

Killiaghan & Gort Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon

Last Saturday Hughes & Co held their annual land letting auction in Dysart which has continued with the company for over 50 years.

Pat confirmed that all the lands are let to the same tenants and they had a successful evening.

Hughes & Co. are offering for sale at Castle Street, Roscommon a three-bedroomed townhouse which has a sitting tenant generating a rental income of €7,800 per annum. The tenant is not affected and the property can be sold fully furnished. Offers in excess of €100,000 for this property.

Hughes & Company also have for sale a block of 4 x one-bedroomed apartments, finished to a high standard and located within walking distance of the town centre. The apartments are fully let at

present and generating an annual income of €14,560.

The company are also offering for sale at Carrowmoney, Rahara, Roscommon approximately 60 acres of top quality agricultural land with extensive road frontage. Pat is urgently looking for all types of property in and around the Roscommon area due to recent sales.

Finally, Hughes & Co. have lands to let at Dysart, Curraghboy, Beechwood and other areas while lands to lease are available in Glinsk.

If you are thinking of buying or selling, contact Pat. Let him advise you – his advice is free.

Phone 090 6627003 or email phughes2@eircom.net.

HUGHES & CO ANNUAL MACHINERY AUCTION 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.

– SALES BY – PAT HUGHES & CO. LTD.

• Attractive three bedroom bungalow in excellent condition • Huge potential to develop attic area • Extensive range of outbuildings to rear (2,500 sq.ft with high eave) • Standing on a large mature site • Viewing comes highly recommended FINAL OFFERS BY 12pm Friday, 29th April 2016 For further details and viewing contact the office on 090-6663700

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

URGENTLY REQUIRED

Spacious home at Castlecoote

NEW TO THE MARKET Glenmore Taughmaconnell Co. Roscommon

• 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 AFTER €85 TO SELL FINAL OFFERS BY 12pm Friday, 22nd April 2016 Joint Agent: Sean Naughton Auctioneer 090-6625080

NEW TO THE MARKET Athleague Village Co. Roscommon • Luxury four bedroom bungalow c.2,500 sq.ft • Potential to convert first floor c.1,000 sq.ft • Standing on large elevated site c.1.5 acres • Finished to a very high standard • Spacious living accommodation throughout • Viewing by appointment only

At Castlecoote, Roscommon, Hughes & Company have on offer a large sixbedroomed dormer bungalow on a oneacre site which has officially gone on the market in recent days.

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.

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.

For Sale at Stone Park, Galway Road, Roscommon, Greenmount House

The Company are accepting every offer in excess of €120,000.

VALUATIONS

For a competitive quote, contact the office today on 090-6663700 or Ivan Connaughton Auctioneer MSCSI MRICS on 086-8985013

RE-ADVERTISED DUE TO CANCELLATION

A large two storey four bedroomed house which stands on a private elevated ½ acre site. The residence is located just off the main Galway to Roscommon Road. Accommodation consists of Sitting Room, Dining Room & Kitchen. Upstairs consists of 4 Bedrooms and a Bathroom. While the house is in need of modernisation, it is prominently located, creating a huge interest.

Contact the office on 090-6663700 for further details and viewing

We carry out Professional Valuations for.....

• Property Transfers • Probate (Estates of the Deceased) • Financial Institutions • Site Valuations for Mortgages • Apportionment’s • Land Lettings/Leases • Machinery/House Contents • Livestock If you need a Property Valuation, we can do it

ALL TYPES OF PROPERTY IN AND AROUND THE ROSCOMMON AREA FOR DISAPPOINTED UNDER BIDDERS DUE TO RECENT SALES

• • • • •

Luxury three bedroom bungalow In showhouse condition throughout Stands on a large site adjacent to village Within walking distance of all amenities Viewing comes highly recommended

WANTED IN ROSCOMMON TOWN Due to a large volume of recent sales in Roscommon Town, we require two and three bedroom properties for disappointed under bidders with funds in place to purchase Enquiries in confidence to Ivan on 086-8985013

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

NO SALE NO FEE CALL 090-6663700 TODAY

LANDS TO LET

Spacious home in prime location with Hughes & Co Hughes & Co. are offering for sale at Stonepark, Galway Road, Roscommon, Greenmount House, a large two-storey four-bedroomed house which stands on a private elevated half-acre site.

The residence is located just off the main Galway to Roscommon Road.

Accommodation consists of sitting room, dining room and kitchen. Upstairs consists of four bedrooms and a bathroom.

While the house is in need of modernisation, it is prominently located and creating a huge interest. The company are accepting offers in excess of €120,000.

Contact Pat Hughes & Co. on 090 6627003 or phughes2@eircom.net.

Circa 18 acres at Dysart, Roscommon Circa 43 acres at Curraghboy, Roscommon Circa 10 acres at Ballinagard Road, Roscommon Circa 13 acres at Beechwood, Roscommon Circa 45 acres of Meadow to Let. Located convenient to Tulsk Village Circa 10 acres at Bracknagh, Ballymurray, Roscommon.

LANDS TO LEASE Circa 55 acres at Glinsk, Co. Galway

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

37

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

PropertyPeople www.propertypartners.ie Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon.

Tel. 090 66 26579. Fax: 090 66 25405.

EMAIL: jearley@propertypartners.ie

NEW TO THE MARKET

A PRIMELY LOCATED 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

Ballymacurley, Ballinaheglish, Co. Roscommon.

Final offers sought for Ballinaheglish property Connaughton Auctioneers are are calling for final offers by 12 pm on Friday, April 29th on a 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 convenient 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 recommended. 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.

‘Ballinagard House’ and lands on the books of Earley’s

Final offers sought for Ballinagare lands Connaughton Auctioneers are calling for final offers on approximately 19.5 acres at Cashelnagole, Ballinagare, located around 1.5 miles from the village on the Castlerea road.

The lands are predominantly good quality with potential for a building site commanding excellent views of the surrounding countryside.

Speaking to the Roscommon People, Auctioneer Ivan Connaughton said “There is an increase in activity for lands in the county, particularly smaller parcels. These lands at Ballinagare have received considerable interest and I am seeking final offers after €110,000.”

Contact the office today on 090 6663700 for further details or Ivan on 086-8985013.

GRAZING LETTING

BY PRIVATE TREATY Short or long term letting Lot 1: 20.92 ACRES AT CLOONACALTRA, TAUGHMACONNELL, BALLINASLOE, CO. ROSCOMMON. Lot 2: C. 28 ACRES AT CLOONACALTRA, TAUGHMACONNELL, BALLINASLOE, CO. ROSCOMMON. DETAILS AND MAPS FROM THE AUCTIONEERS.

Rothwell Staunton & Associates Ballinasloe.

(090) 9642127 (090) 9642258 Email: mlstaunton@eircom.net www.daft.ie Licence No. 002041

John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley is this week offering new to the market the historic Ballinagard House (in need of restoration) located at Ballinagard, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.

This historic property stands on approximately 15 acres of excellent quality land with the benefit of out-offices, stables and a coach house.

For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley, FIPAV of

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. 090 66 27350.

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

FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION

THE FORMER LICENCED PREMISES KNOWN AS “THE GOLDSMITHS” PUBLIC HOUSE, LOCATED AT

MAIN STREET, BALLYMAHON, CO. LONGFORD

Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Minimum reserve not to exceed €25,000.

Public Auction Wednesday 20th April 2016 at 4pm in Cooney’s Hotel, Ballymahon, Co. Longford. (unless previously sold).

A substantial former public house now in derelict condition (due to fire).

The said property commands a prime town centre location.

Due to size and location the said property holds obvious redevelopment potential.

BER: Exempt.

LEGAL: DONAL SMALL, MESSERS BEAUCHAMPS & CO SOLICITORS, DUBLIN. 01 4180600.

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Oakwood Retirement Village, Hawthorne Drive, Co. Roscommon

Oakwood retirement apartments to rent David Diffley of Property Partners Earley is this week offering two-bedroomed quality apartments located at Oakwood Retirement Village, Hawthorne Drive, Co. Roscommon. David described the properties as “quality two-bedroomed apartments finished to the highest standard through-

out and located adjacent to the established Oakwood nursing home. “The units are finished to turnkey standard and have the benefit of safe and secure living accommodation and with additional care services available from the adjacent nursing home.

We now invite immediate

enquiries and viewings.

Ground and first floor apartments available to let.” Price guide: Apartments €450 per month.

For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact David Diffley, MIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 6626579.

Prime Dysart site available with Earley’s David Diffley MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon is this week offering a prime building site containing approximately 1.2 acres being sold subject to planning permission and located at Culleenirwan, Dysart, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.

Earlier this week David spoke to the Roscommon People and described the site as “a highly attractive building site located in a much sought after residential location adjacent to Ballintleva National School convenient

to Dysart village and all amenities.”

He added: “Rarely does such a large building site of this quality come to the market in this select location and the auctioneers now invites immediate viewing and all offers to sell.”

To arrange maps or for further details contact David Diffley, MIPAV, TRV Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 6626579, email ddifley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

LAST 3 HOUSES REMAINING

QUALITY 3 & 4 B/R SEMI-DETACHED & DETACHED RESIDENCES LOCATED IN THE LUXURY “CHESTNUT GROVE” DEVELOPMENT, BESIDE

TULSK VILLAGE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Quality semi-detached & detached residences located in a select residential development beside Tulsk village and all amenities.

3 B/R semi detached from €70,000.

4 B/R semi detached from €80,000.

4 B/R detached with garage from €105,000.

BER: C3 – D2.

The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and enquiries.

LEGAL: MESSERS KANE TUOHY, GRAND CANAL QUAY, DUBLIN 2. (01) 6722233.

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LANDS TO LET ROSCOMMON AREA

We have a large portfolio of lands to let to include: • c. 16 acres located at Gailey, Knockcroghery. 5 year term. Terms and conditions negotiable.

• c. 29.7 acres located at Ballybrogan, Lecarrow from now until the 1st April 2017. Sheep only for the winter months.

For further details contact the office.

38

Roscommon People Friday 08 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

DOCTORS’ ROTA

DENTAL Dental Design Studio

WEEKEND ON CALL EMERGENCY ROTA From 6 pm Friday 8th to Monday 11th 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

Patrick Lynch Clinical Dental Technician

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

for an appointment for these surgery times.

ACCOUNTS

DOCTOR SURGERY

ACCOUNTANTS AND TAX ADVISERS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contact Margaret on 087 6430717.

FREE CAR PARK AVAILABLE AT REAR OF SURGERY

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

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

Phone No: (087) 4136355

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

JUST ARRIVED Bouncing Castle Disco Dome • Keenest rates • FULLY INSURED

TEL.: (087) 2315448 or (090) 6624797 Find us on facebook

CAREERS

CHIROPODIST

CORNERSTONES

DRIVING LESSONS

CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

Give your home a new look with

Paul McStay

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

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

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

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Opening Hours: 9 am - 5.30 pm, Mon-Fri.

CARAVAN FOR SALE

Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

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)

Phone: (086) 8433433

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon.

David Connor

CONTACT 086 1676988 COUNSELLING COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY Are you effected by Anger Issues, Bullying, Bereavement, Confidence/self esteem issues, OCD, Stress, Depression, Eating disorders Panic/Anxiety, Relationships, Exam pressure, Sexual Abuse Call Billy (094) 96 59966 Mobile (086) 0675433 or visit www.billybrogan.com

DRIVING LESSONS NOEL’S Driving School

BUPA & VHI Covered

COMPUTERS

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

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

BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT FOR COMMUNIONS/CONFIRMATIONS

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

DOCKERY’S SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

ADI/RSA Approved Driving Instructor Reg No. 37840

R.S.A. Approved Driving Instructor

Tuition in Car Car available for test

Tuition in Car Also 16 seater mini bus

BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland

CARS FOR SALE < FOR SALE: Passat 1.9 TDI 2005, 143,000 miles, NCT, clean and in good condition. €3,300. Tel: 086 2656567.

CORNERSTONES

EDT LESSONS AVAILABLE Contact: Noel Burke Ballintubber

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

SYL’s

Car Available for Tests Gift Vouchers

(094) 98 80281/ (087) 2031909

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

School of Motoring

Excellent pass rates

Learn to drive from approved Driving Instructor

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

SPECIAL RATES FOR BEGINNERS AND STUDENTS Gift vouchers now available

Call (085) 1348779

L

PHONE: 090 66 25650

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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

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

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TEL: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Classifieds DRIVING LESSONS 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. < FOR SALE: Top quality silage bales. Price reasonable, Strokestown area. Tel: 071 96 33406 or 089 2155958. < BANAHAN FENCING AND AGRI SUPPLIES Pressure treated stakes for sale: • 6ft stakes 4inch only €2.40 per stake or bale of 70 for €160 delivered • 5ft stakes 3inch only €2 per stake or bale of 100 for €180 delivered • Pressure treated Larch Strainers 8ft 7-10inch only €11 delivered or bale of 25 only €250 delivered • 200 meter rolls barbed wire €25 per roll • 100 meter 3ft sheep wire €90 per roll. Also staples and nails available. Contact Tom on 086 2628439. < FOR SALE: 40 round bales of hay, good quality at €22 each. Tulsk area. Tel: 086 1925501. < 2015 HAY FOR SALE: Small square bales. Tel: 085 7186667. < FOR SALE: Bales of silage, Creggs/Roscommon area.

Can be delivered locally. Tel: 086 3776948. < FOR SALE: Round bales of hay. Good quality. Ballyleague area. Tel: 087 2320483.

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.

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

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: 7 solid teak kitchen doors, sink 11/2 unit with worktop and 4 teak kitchen drawers. Tel: 087 2359271.

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

PARKLAWN TREE SERVICES • Certified Arborists • Tree Surgery • Dangerous Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Leylandii hedges reduced and shaped.

Comprehensive insurance cover. I.S.A. member.

Telephone: (086) 6077307/(086) 8125165. www.parklawntreeservices.com

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

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

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

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

● 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

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

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

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

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon

Phone: (086) 3614230

IRONING SERVICE

PLANNINGS

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

KENNELS LISBROCK BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY

• Spacious Kennels provided • Spacious exercise areas outside • Short Term - Long Term boarding welcomed • Dogs walked on request.

www.lisbrockkennels.ie Members of IBKCA

HAPPY TAILS BOARDING KENNELS Lanesborough WHERE TAILS ARE ALWAYS HAPPY! • Large heated sleeping areas with large covered runs • Nine large play areas • Secure, Safe and fun for our guests Check out our website www.happytails boardingkennels.com 043 33 30804 083 0037577

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

Call us today to enquire

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

Located at Henry Street

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, John Dixon, am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct a slatted shed and to carry out all associated site development works at Nadnaveagh Td., Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: John Dixon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Keith McCormack and Michelle Mulvey intend to apply for Permission for the construction of a dormer dwelling house, 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 at: Rooskagh Td., Bellanamullia, 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 to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Brideswell, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

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

PLANNINGS

MORRIS LOHAN ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Declan and Michelle Beirne, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to refurbish and extend existing dwelling with extension to rear and side, demolish existing front porch and construct new porch at Emlagh Beg, Dunamon, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Gaynor Architectural & Design Services Limited, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon.

Phone: 090 6626974 Mobile: 086 8115449 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Tomas Christy Dineen, am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission to construct a calving/machinery shed, a dungstead and to carry out all associated site development works at Cloonbard Td., Castlerea, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Tomas Christy Dineen.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased 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 to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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

www.morrislohan.ie ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Liam Kelly intend to apply for permission for: i. The construction of a single storey extension to northern elevation of existing dwelling house, the installation of a septic tank, sewerage treatment unit and percolation area along with connections to services and all other associated site works. ii. Demolition of existing hayshed at: Granaghan (Martin) Td., Curraghroe, 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.

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, Damien Macklin and Caroline Ward, hereby give notice that we are applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning for change of house and garage design and revision of house and garage position on site to previously approved planning permission (Ref. PD11/251) at Knockadangan, Tremane, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Lo-Homes Limited Tonamaddy, Creggs, Co. Roscommon.

Tel. 090 6621941 Mobile: 086 8551835 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 a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such 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.

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I Michael O’Toole intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for outline permission for development consisting of 2No. dwelling houses with connection to public services and all ancillary site development works at Knockanyconor, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon.

Signed: Michael O’Toole.

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 to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, 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.

PROPERTIES REQUIRED < ACCOMMODATION REQUIRED for 8 weeks for young male from 8th April onwards. One bed apartment or bedsit preferably.

Roscommon Town area (approximately 5 mile radius) References available. Contact 086 3359799 or 086 0501941. < PROPERTY REQUIRED for mature, professional New Zealand couple, looking for house/cottage/apartment to rent within 20 mintues drive of Rahara. Tel: 089 2157611.

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 LET: 2 bed apartment in Athleague village.

Fully furnished. Tel: 087 7541730. < TO LET: 1 large bedroom (en suite), will suit lady to share house with one other lady. All mod cons. 4 miles from Roscommon town, Athleague village. Contact Margaret on 089 4212729. < TO RENT: L-shaped bungalow - 3 bedrooms, fully furnished, oil heating with 1 acre of land, orchard, 2 nice lawns to the rear and turf shed. Mosaic dash on house.

Located near Boyle, Croghan and Carrick-on-Shannon in a nice area, near lakes and rivers. Contact: 087 7550142.

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

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT < COUNTRY HOUSE FOR RENT - LANESBORO: 4 bed detached house for rent 3 miles from Lanesboro in quiet scenic countryside.

Close to schools, 9 miles from Longford, 20 miles to Athlone and 13 miles to Roscommon. Recently painted and refurbished and fully furnished. Large private gardens and large garage. Oil heating and open fire. Strictly non smokers. No pets allowed in house. €475 per month. Would suit young working couple, retired couple, or working professionals. Viewing by appointment and references required.

Call: 086 3276584.

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

Phone: 089 9530397 for an appointment

PAINTING & DECORATING

REFLEXOLOGY

REFLEXOLOGY

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

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951

SITUATIONS WANTED < KIND RELIABLE LADY AVAILABLE to mind children in her own home or children’s own home. Nonsmoker, can do school runs.

Dysart/surrounding areas.

Also fluent Irish speaker. Tel: 087 2540950.

< 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.

SOULMATES

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED DRAINS/SEWERS CLEANED

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.

PAT TREACY

PERMIT NO: NW CPO - 09 - 03267 - 03

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

SITUATIONS VACANT

Tel: (086) 8077313

< QUALIFIED STYLIST REQUIRED for Saturday and holiday cover in Galaxy Hair and Beauty, Harrison Centre, Roscommon town. Phone 090 66 34909 or drop in a CV.

Wheelchair accessible Car & Mini Bus Hire Call car direct

PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

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

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

RE< CHILDMINDER QUIRED: Part-time position for summer months, fulltime position from September onwards. Two school going children and two toddlers. Monday – Friday.

Two miles outside Roscommon Town. Please reply to Box 877, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

SITUATIONS WANTED < PERSON AVAILABLE for kitchen work, restaurant, hotel, canteen, or general work in nursing home, schools etc. References available.

Carrick-on- Shannon, Mohill, Dromod, Rooskey, Longford areas. Please reply to Box 878, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < EXPERIENCED CARER AVAILABLE for late afternoons or nights. Reasonable rates. Tel: 085 8174047.

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

SOLID FUEL

Find us on facebook

SEPTIC TANKS

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

PADRAIG HEALY

(086) 2714879

ATHLEAGUE CABS 1-8 Seats Wheelchair Accessible

PADDY PURCELL 087-3186590

TOM KILDUFF CABS Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

TURF, FIREWOOD AND FUEL 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: Top quality dry black turf in shed. Can be delivered. ALSO reek of turf for sale. Tel: 086 2656567.

USEFUL SERVICES

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 HACKNEY SERVICE Tommy Gilligan, Roscommon

(086) 8099503 JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

TUITION GRINDS IN JUNIOR AND LEAVING CERTIFICATE BUSINESS AND ACCOUNTING Tutoring for college students in Business and Accountancy.

Go to www. mcgowanaccountancy. com to download voucher

LEAVING CERTIFICATE STUDENTS Would you like to do Accounting or Business as an extra subject?

Higher or ordinary levels catered for

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849. < CASTLEREA: Oral and exam preparation in Irish, French and German. Higher and Ordinary Level. Individual or group. Tel: 087 3515985.

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

USEFUL SERVICES

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

Glamorous Dogs FUERTY, ROSCOMMON

KESHIA CASEY Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

CAN’T FIND ANYONE to do that small job, or you haven’t got the time ...

WE DO ANYTHING From fitting Curtain Rails to laying that footpath • Fast Reliable Service • Professional, Courteous Employees • Trustworthy

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL !

094 96 31880 087 9100477

www.oddjobsolutions.ie Established since 2005

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

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

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

Contact: 087 6718564 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND DECORATING CONTRACTOR

– For all your decorating needs.

Call John 086 4679798

Professional Dog Groomer

(087) 2731228 < 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.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 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

MOBILE VALETING SERVICES www.autocleanse ireland.webs.com

Tel Niall on 085 7577317

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.

TARMACADAM

Gerry Monaghan

TARMACADAM Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness New Buildings & Retrofit Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

Contact: Gerry Monaghan

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

fergalkelly@live.com

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

Contact us for further information

Fergal 086 1016899

091 768 768

Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon T: (090) 64 93386 M: (086) 8207242 or Darren on 086 8972265

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

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

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS

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

E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net

CARPENTRY

Gary Jameson

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

CATHAL DOOLEY 087 6579064

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

Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

CLEANING SERVICES • ROSCOMMON

WE REPLACE AND FIT DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS

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

Donal Haughey - 086 8210710

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES

WE SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories SPECIAL OFFER ON COMPOSITE DOORS

We have in stock a large range of locks, hinges, handles to suit all brands of windows and doors

www.roscommonwindows.ie

ROSCOMMON, WEST of IRELAND and BEYOND!!

TREKKING ADVENTURES

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892

Venture2Adventures.com Take the trek of a lifetime

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

BUILDING CONTRACTOR VETERINARY

Frank Grehan & Sons

• Doors, Timber Floors • Stairs • Attic Conversions and all internal woodwork

Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon Phone 090 66 22230 086 2599836/085 8550051 Email: fgrehan@eircom.net Building & Civil Engineering Contractors

(086) 0708833

FARMING

ELITE CHIMNEY REPAIRS • Lining

STEPHEN HOARE

2nd Fix Carpentry Munsboro, Roscommon • Fitted Kitchens & bedroom units

GLASS WORKS

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Athlone Road, Roscommon

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

Lisagallon, Cloverhill, Roscommon Tel: 0906665555 Fax: 0906627653 • Digital X-Ray Facility • In house Blood Analysis • Small Animal Ultra-Sound • Gas Anaesthetic • Veterinary Kennel’s facility •24hrs Emergency Vet on call Clinic Hours: 2pm – 7pm Mon – Friday Office Hours: 9am – 7pm Mon - Friday PLEASE CALL TO ARRANGE AN APPOINTMENT

~ For all your building requirements ~ Fully registered for the new building regulations ~ Quotations on request ~ Building for the future

TV

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

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

MAL HEVEHAN Telephone: 086 8100292

42

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Appointments/AtYourService TARMACADAM

Roscommon Credit Union Ltd

Donamon

Local and Lending Has the following vacancy for the position of

Tarmacadam LTD Specialising in Kerbing, Tar and Chips and Tarmacadam.

Machine or hand laid.

Contact Damian at (087) 9962361

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

TELLER Part-Time (Approx. 18 hours per week) The Part –Time Teller will report to the Manager and will be responsible for front line service provision, administrative duties and contribute to the operational duties to ensure the efficient running of our Credit Union offices in Roscommon, Elphin and Strokestown.

The successful candidate will be a motivated individual with excellent interpersonal skills.

REQUIREMENTS: • Computer literacy including MS office • Strong communication skills both verbal and written • A relevant educational qualification • Ability to work in a team environment DESIRABLE: • A minimum of two years experience in a similar financial services role The position is for a fixed term of six months CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 8.00 pm, 15th April 2016

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN CO. ROSCOMMON!

The Westmeath Independent wishes to recruit an

Advertising Sales Executive The ideal candidate will be results focused with strong communication and presentation skills. This person will be enthusiastic and hard working and will have the ability to identify new opportunities and generate new business on an on-going basis.

The role requires ;

• Very good proposal writing and computer skills • A proven track record of achieving and exceeding targets • Ability to deliver excellent Customer Service

Please apply in writing only with C.V and cover letter to: The Manager, Ref: TL/0416, Roscommon Credit Union Ltd, Abbey Street, Roscommon www.roscommoncreditunion.ie

The successful applicant will be comfortable working to sales targets in a deadline driven environment.

Previous Media Sales experience / third level qualification in business studies/marketing will be a distinct advantage.

Roscommon Credit Union Limited is an equal opportunities employer, canvassing will disqualify

Applications including a cover letter and Curriculum Vitae should be sent in confidence to; Padraic Martin, Group Sales Manager, Westmeath Independent, 11 Sean Costello Street, Athlone or by e-mail to ; pmartin@westmeathindependent.ie

SOCIAL CARE The HSE has the following vacancies:

Q Temporary Part-Time Home Help 6 Primary Care Centres across Co. Roscommon Application Form available from: Helen Tully, Human Resources Department, Government Buildings, Convent Road, Roscommon on Tel: 090 6637585 or Email: helen.tully@hse.ie Informal enquiries to: Ms Dympna Colley, Home Help Organiser, Government Buildings, Convent Road, Roscommon on Tel: 090 6637551 or Email: dympna.colley@hse.ie or Mr Seamus Mollaghan, Home Help Organiser, Primary Care Centre, Strokestown, Roscommon on Tel: 071 9634188 or Email: seamus.mollaghan@hse.ie Closing date: Friday, 22nd April 2016 at 12 noon.

For further information on this post please visit:

www.hse.ie/eng/jobs www.hse.ie/eng/jobs Easy Access • Public Confidence • Staff Pride

New Roscommon Retail Business seeks staff for MANAGEMENT AND SHOP FLOOR POSITIONS

WESTMEATH INDEPENDENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER

Please reply to Box No: 879, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Rsocommon Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB? To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

JIGSAW ROSCOMMON HAS VACANCIES FOR ALLIED MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONALS: We are working to change how Ireland thinks about and responds to our young people and their mental health through Research, Engagement and Jigsaw services.

WE ARE CURRENTLY RECRUITING FOR: SENIOR CLINICAL SUPPORT WORKER, JIGSAW ROSCOMMON (i.e. Clinical/Counselling/Educational Psychologists, Social Workers, Mental Health Nurses and Occupational Therapists)

CLINICAL SUPPORT WORKER, JIGSAW ROSCOMMON (i.e. Clinical/Counselling/Educational Psychologists, Social Workers, Mental Health Nurses and Occupational Therapists)

Secondment arrangements will be considered.

The local paper!

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

Closing date - 22nd April, 2016 at 1pm.

Interviews - 4th/5th May 2016.

Please find job descriptions and information on these positions here: headstrong.ie/careers

43

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES WEBB John St. Patrick’s Street, Castlerea Who passed away peacefully at home on 14th February 2016 R.I.P In loving memory of John Webb Angela and family would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us on John’s passing.

Thank you to the neighbours and friends who visited John at the family home during his illness.

We would like to extend our thanks to Roscommon County Hospital, The Galway Clinic, Dr. Therese O’Reilly and Staff and John and Nial Tully, Tullys’ Pharmacy for all the care and attention they gave to John.

A very special thank you to the kind and wonderful carers – Madeline and Frances, The Public Health Team, The Palliative Team and Patsy Costello, our good friend who provided outstanding care and attention to John in his home.

We would like to sincerely thank all those who called to the family home and attended the Funeral, many of whom travelled long distances. Thank you to those who sent Mass Cards, Enrolment Cards, messages of sympathy and donations to Mayo/Roscommon Hospice and Roscommon Disability Support Group Limited.

We would like to thank Canon Joe Fitzgerald who regularly visited John at home and for celebrating his Funeral Mass with concelebrants Fr Micheal Kelly, Fr. JJ Cribbin (Miltown) and Fr. Christopher Byrnes.

Thank you to the Sacristan, Eucharistic Ministers and Servers. Sincere thanks also to the amalgamated Church Choirs and musical society under the direction of Clare Kelly, organists Shane Farrell and Enna Conroy for the beautiful music and singing.

A special thanks to Paul and Susan Gaynor for their kindness and the dignified manner in which they carried out John’s Funeral arrangements.

Thank you to Castlerea Gardai who helped with traffic management. Thank you to the gravediggers who prepared John’s resting place with care and to Danny Burke who provided such a touching farewell when John was laid to rest.

Thank you also to the staff of Mulvihill’s, Hannah’s Kitchen and Hester’s for their catering.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to our neighbours and friends who have supported us in so many ways since John’s death. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

John’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea on Friday 8th April at 7.30pm.

O’GRADY Margaret (Gretta)

MULRYAN Paul

COYNE Michael (Mickey)

MULDOON Catherine (Kitty)

(10th Anniversary)

(7th Anniversary)

Emlaghroyan, Donamon, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary) Died 10th April 2013

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.

In loving memory of Mickey, Boston, USA and formerly of Curraghreevagh, Creggs, Co. Galway, who died on April 5th 2009

Doorty, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon Who died 12th April 2014 (2nd Anniversary)

She was a mother so very rare, Content in her home and always there, On earth she toiled, In Heaven she rests, God bless you mother you were one of the best.

Sadly missed by her loving family.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 10th April in Fourmilehouse Church at 11am.

MANNION Pat Joe

Sadly missed and loved always, Mam, Dad, Shane and Karen.

Anniversary Mass on 16th April in the Sacred Heart Home Chapel at 11am.

MULRYAN Paul (10th Anniversary)

Cloonara, Derrane, Roscommon Who died on 9th April 2015 (1st Anniversary)

Like falling leaves the years slip by, But memories of you will never die.

A laugh, a smile, a joke or two, That’s the way we remember you.

Quietly today your memory is kept, No need for words, We will never forget, No longer in our lives to share, But in our hearts you are always there.

May her gentle soul Rest in Peace

Sadly missed by his loving wife Maureen and family in Boston and his sister Baby, brother Chris, brother-inlaw Michael, sister-in-law Josephine, nieces, nephew and families.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her husband Vincent, family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in Cloverhill Church at 8pm on Saturday 9th April 2016.

GIBBONS Kathleen

MURRAY Lawrence

Cagglebeg, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

Kilclough, Newbridge (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of my dear nephew Paul, who died on the 9th April 2006

A smile for all A heart of gold The very best this world could hold.

Never selfish, always kind Those are the memories you left behind.

Those who think of Pat Joe today Say a Rosary in his name.

Always remembered by his brothers, sisters, brotherin-law, sister-in-law, nieces and nephews.

Anniversary Mass in Derrane Church on Saturday 9th April at 7pm.

DAVIS Keith Clooncun East, Glenamaddy (1st Anniversary)

Deep in my heart your memory is kept, To love and to cherish and never forget.

To me you were someone special, With pride I speak your name Though life goes on without you, It will never be the same.

Lovingly remembered always Paulie, Love Ann xxx ~~~~~~~~~~ Time may pass and fade away, But silent thoughts and memories stay, No longer in our lives to share, But in our hearts you are always there.

Always remembered, Tommy, Lynda, Marie, Ernie, Noah, Albie, Darren and Sara Jane. ~~~~~~~~~~

MULRYAN Paul You had a smile for everyone You had a heart of gold You left the most beautiful memories This world could ever hold.

Fondly remembered and sadly missed from Kathleen, PJ, Niamh, Brian and Joseph.

Roscommon A day that’s filled with sadness, Returns to us today.

To mark the way you left us In such a sudden way.

Time slips by, Life goes on, But from our hearts you will never be gone.

Always loved and dearly missed by Seamus, Catherine, Tara, Donna, Mark, Triona, Mike-Frank

Cherished memories of a dear wife and mother Kathleen, who died on 9th April 2015 R.I.P. Though her smile is gone forever And her hand we cannot touch We still have so many memories Of the one we loved so much.

Her memory is now our keepsake With which we’ll never part, God has her in His keeping We have her in our hearts.

Sadly missed by her loving husband Jimmie and children Margaret, Úna, Dympna, Frank and their families.

Anniversary Mass in St. Bridget’s Church, Fourmilehouse on Saturday 9th April at 8.15pm.

In loving memory of Lawrence (Larry) Murray, who passed away on 14th April 2011 Aged 63 years Those special memories of you Will always bring a smile If only we could have you back For just a little while Then we could sit and talk again Just like we used to do You always meant so very much And always will do too.

The fact that you’re no longer here Will always cause us pain But you’re forever in our hearts Until we meet again.

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.

Forever loved and dearly missed by his loving wife Anne, daughters Noreen and Martina, son John, sonin-law Seamus and brother Andrew.

Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Newbridge on Sunday 10th April at 11.30am.

GILLERAN Moira (9th Anniversary) Golf Links Road, Roscommon

Remembering a precious wife and mother, who passed away on April 13th 2007 They say there is a reason They say that time will heal But neither time nor reason Will change the way we feel For no one knows the heartache That lies behind our smiles No one knows how many times We have broken down and cried We want to tell you mother We cherish the time we had You’re so amazing to think of But so tough to be without.

Lovingly remembered by her husband Noel, sons Conor and Daire and daughter Niamh. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ In loving memory of a dear sister Moira DEAR SISTER We never part from those we love No distance can divide With memories dear and love sincere You will always be by our side.

Forever loved and missed by her brothers John and Michael, sisters Joan and Breda, sister-in-law Claire and brothers-in-law Liam and James, nieces and nephews.

Memorial Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Wednesday 13th April at 8am.

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.

memorial stationery from

For brochure and sample pack call:

Athlone Road, ROSCOMMON 090 66 27500

44

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

FamilyNotices/Classifieds

newsbriefs

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES COONEY Sean

HEVICAN Patrick Joseph

O’GRADY Noel

Galway Road, Roscommon and Clonee, Co. Dublin (2nd Anniversary)

Lisnamult, Roscommon (19th Anniversary)

Chapel Lane, Roscommon and St. John’s, Lecarrow (6th Anniversary) Who died on 10th April 2010

In loving memory of Sean Cooney, who died 5th April 2014, R.I.P.

In loving memory of a dear brother and uncle, Patrick Joseph, who died on 8th April 1997

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

Always remembered by his loving family.

COYLE Maureen Gailey, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Who died on the 4th April 2014 (2nd Anniversary)

Those special memories of you will always bring a smile If only we could have you back for just a little while Then we could sit and talk again Just like we used to do.

You always meant so very much and always will do too.

The fact that you are no longer here Will always cause us pain But you are forever in our hearts Until we meet gain.

Fondly rememebered and never forgotten by your sister Philomena and niece Roseanne.

You left us peaceful memories Your love is still our guide And though we cannot see you You are always by our side.

Fondly remembered by his family and friends.

Anniversary Mass for Noel and his sisters Anne and Marie on Sunday 24th April in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow at 11.30am.

CRAVEN Michael Abbeyville, Roscommon and Knockcroghery (3rd Anniversary) Who died on 10th April 2013

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

In loving memory of my wife Maureen I hold you close within my heart And there you shall remain To walk with me throughout our lives Until we meet again.

Sadly missed by your loving husband Eugene.

Rest in Peace

Anniversary Mass will be held on Saturday April 9th at 7pm in Knockcroghery Church. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ This message comes with our love From here on earth to Heaven above We miss you Maureen more than words can say.

Your resting place we visit and put flowers there with care But no one knows the heartache As we go and leave you there.

Rest in Peace

Sadly missed, Eileen, Kathleen, John, Christy and all her nieces and nephews.

CUTTLE Sarah & Laura “Sarlau”, Ardsallagh Woods, Roscommon 25th Birthday occurs on 9th April

Happy Birthday to our beautiful twin daughters, Sarah and Laura Whom we held in our arms for a very short time But we hold in our hearts for eternity.

Treasured and cherished memories, forever loved and sadly missed Mammy, Daddy, Simon, Eoin and Tara.

A picture of you I carry in my heart, I close my eyes to see it when the world gets dark.

A memory of you I carry in my soul I wrap it close around me When the nights get cold.

If you ask how I am, I’d say just fine, But the truth is If you could read my mind Not a day goes by That I don’t think of you.

Sadly missed by his family and friends.

Anniversary Mass in Knockcroghery Church on Thursday 2nd June at 7pm.

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

FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 26/03/2016 FIRST PRIZE €60: Breda Healy, The Square SECOND PRIZE €30: Peggy Conway, c/o K Hoare THIRD PRIZE €20: Lorraine Barry, c/o M Barry 10 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Catherine & Bridget, c/o K Hoare; S Conway, c/o K Collins; Winnie Giblin, c/o K Hoare; Tanya Kelly, c/o Kelly’s; Kay & Rhea, c/o K Hoare; Mrs. V Kelly, Breda Healy; Des Kelly, c/o K Hoare; Maureen Mulhern, c/o K Collins; Evelyn Coyle, c/o K Hoare.

10 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Breda Healy, Darragh Ward, Kathleen Finan, Aaron & Kirsty, Kathleen Collins, Kathleen Finan, Maureen Beirne, Mary Hicks, Kirsty Dimambzo, Mary Hicks.

TOTAL PRIZES €260.

FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 02/04/2016 FIRST PRIZE €50: Bridie Kiernan, c/o K. Finan SECOND PRIZE €25: Kathleen Hoare THIRD PRIZE €20: Brian Connaughton, c/o K Hoare 8 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Jacko & Willie, c/o M Rice; Anthony Glynn, c/o M Rice; Jimmy Murray, c/o M Quigley; Peggy Gordon, c/o K Hoare; Liam Gately, c/o K Hoare; Mary E Fallon, c/o K Collins; Ava, c/o K Collins; James Conway, c/o K Hoare.

5 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Kathleen Hoare; Kathleen Finan; Joe Hoare; Mary Hicks; Murray’s, Castle Street.

TOTAL RECEIPTS €358.

TOTAL PRIZES €200.

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication.

Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper.

Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

THANKSGIVING NOTICES THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it) Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted.

Never known to fail. G.F.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it) Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted.

Never known to fail. A.H.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it) Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted.

Never known to fail. A.M.K.

NOVENA TO ST. CLARE Ask St. Clare for three favours, one for business, two impossible and nine Hail Marys for nine days with lighted candle. Pray whether you believe or not. Publish on ninth day. Powerful Novena.

Say ‘May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored, glorified now and forever, throughout the whole world.

Amen’. Your request will be granted no matter how impossible it may seem. Prayer must be published. A.H.

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it) Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour, not mine, Amen. Say this prayer for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted.

Never known to fail. M.K. NOVENA TO ST. MARTHA Oh Saint Martha, I resort to thee and to thy petition and faith. I offer up to thee this light which I shall burn every Tuesday for nine Tuesdays.

Comfort me in all my difficulties through the great favour thou didst enjoy when our Saviour lodged in thy house. I beseech thee to have definite pity in regards to the favour I ask. Interceed for my family that we may always be provided for in all our necessities. I ask thee St. Martha to overcome the dragon, which thou didst cast at thy feet. Say one Our Father and Three Hail Mary’s.

Light a candle every Tuesday and the above prayer made know with the intention of spreading devotion to St. Martha. This Miraculous Saint grants everything before the five days are ended, no matter how difficult. M.K.

NOVENA TO ST. JUDE O Blessed St. Jude, Glorious Apostle, faithful servant and friend of Jesus. The name of the traitor has caused you to be forgotten by many, but the Church honours and invokes you as the Patron of Hopeless Causes, of matters despaired of. Pray for me, who is so miserable.

I implore of thy particular privilege to bring visible and speedy help where help is most despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need, that I may receive the consultations and succour of Heaven in all my necessities, tribulations and suffering, particularly (request). That I may bless God with thee and all blessed throughout eternity. I promise thee, O Blessed Judge, to be ever mindful of this great favour and I will never cease to honour thee as my special and powerful Patron and do all in my power to encourage devotion to thee. Amen.

Thank you, St. Jude. Say for three days and publish. A.H.

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

Ballymurray NS enjoys LearnStorm success Ballymurray NS is currently participating in LearnStorm Ireland.

Powered by Khan Academy with their friends at the O’Sullivan Foundation, LearnStorm is a nine-week challenge where students can earn recognition for themselves and their school by mastering maths skills and building a growth mindset, developing effective learning strategies.

Last week, the school placed 3rd in Cup 2 of the challenge. This amazing result was achieved despite competing against primary and secondary schools from all over Ireland. In addition, some of the individual pupils have qualified for provincial and national finals as well. Students earn points by completing maths activities on Khan Academy, a website dedicated to the teaching of maths to all ages.

Garden Club to visit Co. Cork The Roscommon Garden Club is organising an overnight outing to Co. Cork on Friday 24th and Saturday 25th of June.

The travelling party will leave Roscommon Church carpark at 7 am on the Friday morning.

The itinerary includes an overnight stay in the Westlodge Hotel in Bantry, a visit to Bantry House and Gardens and lunch on Garnish Island.

The cost per person is €185 with €75 (nonrefundable) required for initial booking and the balance of €110 due by the end of May. Contact Pat on 090 6625694 or Angela on 090 6629807 for more details.

The Bridge Club Roscommon Bridge Club North/South – 1st: M. & P. Mellett, 2nd: A. Rafferty & V. McManus, 3rd: E. Kelly & M. Dermody. East/West – 1st: K. Blighe & N. McDonagh, 2nd: K. Dowd & M. Molloy, 3rd: M. & T O’Keeffe.

Happy ‘71 Bridge Club 1st: C. Ansboro & E. Kelly, 2nd: M. Kearns & J. Donnellan, 3rd: M. & P. Mellett.

St. Coman’s Bridge Club North/South – 1st: P. Pierse & B. Weir, 2nd: G. Hoban & M. Coyle, 3rd: M. Hickey & G. Spillane.

East/West – 1st: A. Shine & M. Naughton, 2nd: A. Flynn & N. Hynes, 3rd: A. Murray & O. Fahy.

Kilbride Bridge Club North/South – 1st: G. McDermott & A. Igoe, 2nd: K. Burke & M. Kelly, 3rd: E. Dowling & M. Farrell. East/ West – 1st: A. McCourt & S. Macken, 2nd: F. Keane & B. Gillooly, 3rd: A. Gaffney & J. Hunt.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

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Tesco workers ballot for strike

80 STAFF AT ROSCOMMON STORE ARE INVOLVED

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Around 80 staff from the Tesco store in Roscommon town are balloting on whether or not to strike over a pay dispute.

In total, more than 12,000 members of the Mandate Trade Union in Tesco countrywide are being balloted, with the result expected within five weeks.

The union said that the action was being taken because the supermarket chain had refused to accept a Labour Court recommendation and were attempting to force significant wage cuts on a large number of staff.

On February 19, the Labour Court recommended that all Tesco should receive a 2 percent pay increase and a share bonus payment, Mandate said.

However, the union said that the chain had told more than 1,000 workers that they would not be receiving the pay increase, and instead would be forced to take pay cuts of at least 15 per cent from April 18.

Tesco employs up to 14,500 workers in 149 stores in the Republic of Ireland and Mandate estimates the company makes profits of €250 million a year.

John Douglas, Tesco’s General Secretary, said that the chain’s treatment of their workers over the past year had been atrocious.

“This has to be seen for what it is – an attack on low-paid workers by a very profitable multinational retailer who are trying to increase their profits at the expense of their longserving staff in Ireland,” he said.

However, Tesco said that it was incorrect to say that they had refused to implement the recent Labour Court recommendation.

A spokesman added: “It

is really disappointing that the trade union has decided to adopt this position when the vast majority of our store colleagues have received the benefits of the recommendation.

“In recent weeks, eligible colleagues received a 1.5 per cent lump sum cash payment, which is consistent with the spirit of the Labour Court recommendation.”

Council accepts need for new hotel in Castlerea Roscommon County Council will facilitate the development of a new hotel in Castlerea because they feel that it would stimulate economic growth.

In the draft Castlerea Local Area Plan 20162020, it is noted that the “economic downturn has impacted upon Castlerea and contributed towards a lack of commercial growth in the town for the past number of years”.

The council held a ‘pre-draft consultation’, when the community noted the “lack of a hotel and other visitor accommodation in the area”.

They also said that “several shops/retail units had ceased trading and are disused”, and that residents were going out of town to shop and work.

According to the Draft Plan, the community noted: “Developments such as a new hotel could be a catalyst for further new commercial devel-

opment in Castlerea and potential significant increase in visitors to the town.”

The council appears to have taken note because the Draft Plan says that the local authority would “facilitate a hotel development in Castlerea, which would be an anchor for new associated commercial developments”.

It also says that “a new hotel could have a knockon effect for the creation of ancillary commercial

developments, such as restaurants and shops”.

The west Roscommon has been without a hotel since Tully’s Hotel closed down in October 2014.

During pre-draft consultation, the community also said that there was a need for an indoor swimming pool in Castlerea – an outdoor pool already exists in the town – along with a playground and running track.

Council to reduce amount of land zoned for houses in Castlerea < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

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Roscommon County Council wants to reduce the amount of land zoned for building houses in Castlerea.

This week, the council released the draft version of the Castlerea Local Area Plan 2016-2022, in which the new zoning plans are contained.

It is proposed to cut the amount of land zoned for residential development by 44 per cent, from 16 hectares (39.5 acres) to 9.3 hectares (23 acres).

The Draft Plan says: “The Castlerea Local Area Plan 2012-2018 identified approximately 16 hectares of land for residential development in the town – significantly more than the amount of land needed to accommodate the population growth predicted up to 2022.

“Development of this extent of land could potentially accommodate up to 320 residences and approximately 800 people.

“This would be unsustainable and would give rise to deficiencies in servicing such a large population increase, as well as being inconsistent with the town’s low growth rate and the current economic climate.”

The council expects the population of Castlerea to increase by only 300 over the next six years and, because the average household is 2.5 persons, the total number of residential units required until 2022 would be 120.

Therefore, the plan says that just 6 hectares (14.8 acres), situated on a greenfield site close to the town centre, should be zoned ‘new residential’.

The plan recommends that a further 3.3 hectares (8 acres) be zoned ‘strategic residential reserve’, which could be developed in the event of an unexpectedly high population growth and demand for housing.

It is noted that several new residential estates have been built in recent years, and that there are currently two unfinished estates in the town.

It is also noted that, as of last month, there were 133 va-

cant residential units in the area covered by the Castlerea Local Area Plan.

The Draft Plan will be considered by councillors of the Roscommon Municipal District in the coming weeks and is due to be enacted later this year.

Royal Hotel in Boyle could sell for as little as €90,000 The Royal Hotel in Boyle, which has been closed for the past five years, is to be auctioned this month and could sell for just €90,000.

A landmark building that was built in 1782, the hotel had been a focal point in the north Roscommon town for over two centuries. It served the needs of Boyle and the surrounding area before its closure in around 2011.

It has been on the market for the past 18 months, with an initial guide price of €250,000, but it emerged this week that it would be auctioned at an Allsop auction in the RDS, Dublin, on Thursday, April 28.

The agent said that the reserve range would be between €90,000 and €110,000. The property would, however, require significant investment to be refurbished to the standard to serve as a hotel.

The building, spread over three floors, measures around 20,000 square feet, with a large yard/car park to the rear.

Also for sale at the auction will be a two-acre site at Monksland (reserve – €40,000); a four-bedroomed bungalow at Rooskey (reserve – €60,000); a fourbedroomed house at Cortober, Carrick-on-Shannon (reserve – €90,000); and a four-bedroomed house at Kilglass, Rooskey (reserve – €50,000).

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

SportsPeople McStay delight at Croker date < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon joint manager Kevin McStay told The Roscommon People this week that this semi-final against Kerry in Croke Park is exactly what Roscommon need at this stage of the year.

“This semi-final is perfect for us for several reasons as we prepare for the rest of the year. It will tell us where we stand as we prepare for the championship. It’s great that it’s in Croke Park because we want our lads to get used to playing games there.

“Also, so much has changed since we beat Kerry in Killarney earlier in the league. The personnel on both sides has changed, the conditions will be much better, the fitness of both teams will have improved and it is a perfect preparation for the championship opener in New York – and of course it is a chance to get to a league final.

“We have lads ruled out and others coming back for this weekend. Ruled out are Enda Smith, Ian Kilbride,

Cathal Compton and Cathal McHugh, and we have injury concerns about Cian Connolly and Conor Daly.

However on the other hand Diarmuid Murtagh and Ultan Harney are back and available for selection and we have other lads back like Thomas Corcoran and Donie Shine. I was delighted to see Donie back and scoring three points from play last Sunday and he will be a huge addition to the panel when he is fully fit.

“Kerry are always tough opponents and they will be keen to reverse the result of the league game earlier in the year but we are going up to give a good account of ourselves and we are really looking forward to it” he concluded.

I agree with Kevin McStay that this is a great match for Roscommon to have at this time of the year and on a perfect pitch it will be a huge test.

To lose this game would not be the end of the world but everyone will be looking at the Roscommon performance to see where we are as the championship comes up.

Fergal O’Donnell, Liam McHale and Kevin McStay pictured in Carrick-on-Shannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Underdogs Roscommon relishing Kerry challenge Allianz National Football League Semi-final: Roscommon v Kerry at Croke Park on Sunday at 2 pm. Referee: Padraig Hughes (Armagh) – live on TG4 < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s reward for their four excellent wins on the trot in Division One of the league is a semi-final clash against Kerry in Croke Park on Sunday.

When the sides met in round two in Killarney in February Roscommon eked out a one-point win and it started Roscommon on their excellent run of wins that brought them to this semi-final.

It was also the match that kick-started Kerry’s league campaign and since that loss to Roscommon they have breezed into the semifinals in second place in the table behind Dublin with some very impressive per-

formances.

Both sides will show significant changes to the sides that we saw take the field in Killarney as many players have returned to action on both sides after injury and other reasons.

Kerry have rolled out their big guns in recent weeks and the likes of ‘Gooch’ Cooper, David Moran, Kieran Donaghy, Paul Geaney and Marc Ó Sé are all back in harness. We are told that Bryan Sheehan and Anthony Maher could be back this weekend. But Roscommon are stronger too. Diarmuid Murtagh, Thomas Corcoran and Ultan Harney are back to full fitness and available for selection and Donie Shine made his

return last Sunday and was very impressive. Trying to second-guess the line-ups is an impossible task. Kerry will have Marc Ó Sé, Aidan O’Mahony, Killian Young and Shane Enright in defence with the very interesting combination of David Moran and Kieran Donaghy at midfield.

Up front Colm Cooper will be pulling the strings at fullforward while the likes of Paul Murphy, Paul Geaney and Bryan Sheehan are sure to feature too.

The Roscommon team will also feature changes to the side that should have earned a draw against Dublin although Seanie McDermott, Neil Collins and Niall McInerney will man the

full-back line positions.

There could be changes in the half-back line and at midfield. Sean Mullooly’s return is welcome and Davy Murray, Donie Shine, Cathal Shine and Niall Daly will all be in line for starts in that area of the field. Up front the options are increasing with every passing week. Diarmuid Murtagh is sure to get a starting spot after a brilliant display in the Connacht U-21 final and Ultan Harney will push hard for a spot also to join Ciaran Murtagh, Cathal Cregg and Senan Kilbride.

I am expecting that Croke Park will suit Roscommon’s fast-paced, running and possession game which was not nearly as effective in

the mud in Hyde Park and Carrick-on-Shannon over the past two Sundays. I am expecting a very enjoyable high-scoring and free-flowing game. Kerry were very good last weekend against Cork and they always come on strong at this time of the year.

I must say that I am really looking forward to this encounter. Maybe Kerry might win it by a few points but I am expecting a big performance from the Rossies. With the Dubs taking on Donegal in the other semi-final at 4 pm it will be a great day out at Headquarters.

Match odds: Kerry 1/3; Roscommon 11/4; Draw 9/1.

Prediction: Kerry, by three points.

Hurlers set to gain promotion Allianz NHL Relegation/Promotion Play-off: Roscommon v Donegal in Ballina on Saturday at 5 pm The Roscommon senior hurlers face Donegal this Saturday in Ballina hoping to progress to Division 2B in the Allianz NHL next year.

Justin Campbell’s men have won their last six games and clinched the Division 3A title against Monaghan in convincing fashion recently. They go into the game as favourites against a side that is going through a run of poor form. The northern side has lost six games in a row and have conceded 12 goals and 131 points.

Roscommon won’t take anything for granted this weekend as Division 3A champions from last year,

Tyrone were beaten by a dogged Donegal in a relegation promotion playoff this time last year.

Roscommon will look to take Donegal’s Division 2B status from them in Ballina and continue their impressive progress under Campbell.

Games against Meath, Derry, Wicklow and neighbours Mayo beckon for the Rossies next year but Donegal won’t be quick to lie down. One more win this Saturday will bring to an end a wonderful year for the hurlers and add to the Nicky Rackard and Division 3A NHL success.

Prediction: Roscommon.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

SportsPeople This weekend’s action This weekend’s racing today is on the level at Green Park in Limerick starting at 2.00 pm.

Tomorrow the action is double handed with an evening national race meeting at 4.30 pm in Wexford and on the all weather in Dundalk stalls opening at 6.00 pm. On Saturday the action is on the flat at Gowran Park outside Kilkenny at 1.20 pm. On Sunday at 2.10 pm there is flat racing in Dublin 4 at Leopardstown featuring two Group 3 races, the Ballysax Stakes and the 1,000 Guineas Trial along with the Listed 2,000 Guineas Trial and the start of a two day meeting in the sunny south east at Tramore with an jump card at 1.50 pm.

Horses for Courses

by Tom Red

Aintree Grand National Meeting On Saturday the most famous horse race in the world takes place in Liverpool at Aintree. The Grade 3 Grand National is the longest race in Britain run over 4m 2f and 30 fences. It is backed up with 3 Grade1, 1 Grade 2, 2 Grade 3 and a Listed race.

Today there are 4 Grade 1, 2 Grade 2 and 1 Grade 3 races including the Aintree Bowl, The Aintree Hurdle and The Foxhunters for amateur riders over the National fences.

Tomorrow sees another 4 Grade 1, 1 Grade 2 and 3 Grade 3 races with the Mildmay Novice and Melling Chase and the Grade 3 Topham Chase run over the national fences.

Willie Mullins, The Closutton, Co Carlow trainer, is sending a very strong team of horses to Aintree in an effort to win the British trainers championship.

Today Annie Power heads the list in the Aintree hurdle backed up by Nicholl’s Canyon against 4 British trained horses.

In the Aintree Bowl Chase Djakadam and Don Poli take on local favourite Cue Card and 6 other outsiders. In the opening Juvenile Hurdle there are 6 Irish runners led by Aidan O’Brien’s Ivanovich Gorbatov with Mullins providing 4 of the 17 runners. In the foxhunters Mullins has Marsonnien who will have all to do against Enda Bolger’s On The Fringe now ridden by Jamie Codd. Mullins has no runner in the Red Rum Handicap Chase and runs Augusta Kate in the bumper.

On Saturday he hopes to win the National a second time from On His Own, Sir Des Champs, Boston Bob and Ballycasey all in the top 40 of the 87 still in. He won it with Hedgehunter in 2005.

However, the shortest-priced Irish horse in the ante-post markets, Gordon Elliott’s Cause Of Causes, is 9 places out of the race

and may not make the cut. Last year’s Midlands National hero Goonyella from Jim Dreaper’s yard and Tony Martin’s Gallant Oscar are the shortest Irish horses priced horses in the betting but an Irish trained complete outsider which has drifted from 40/1 to 100/1, Home Farm, trained by Henry de Bromhead might run in to a place at a wrong price. Mullins’ main hope looks to be Boston Bob. Other Irish horses sure to get a run include Pat Fahy’s Cheltenham fourth Morning Assembly and Elliott’s Ucello Conti, who finished third in the Thyestes at Gowran.

The 4 horses will carry my €2.50 e/w are Holywell, Gallant Oscar, Unioniste and Goonyella who is unlucky around Aintree, on his last chance. May the pin direct you and the best horse win.

Looking for a Grand National horse for this weekend’s race, don’t despair but get your skates on. Grand National contender 50/1 shot Black Thunder trained

by Paul Nicholls is entered in the Goffs Aintree Sale today.

The thrills and spills of Aintree National fences.

The Scottish Grand National at Ayr on Saturday week or the Le Touche Cup at Punchestown are on the radar for Gordon Elliott’s Irish Grand National runner up Bless The Wings.

Barry Geraghty is appealing the savage 30-day ban he was issued by Limerick stewards for his ride on Noble Emperor last Sunday after Barry Cash aboard Velocity Boy slipped the field.

The other 5 jockey involved received no sanction.

General News

Point to Point View

Leading owner Barry Connell has ended his arrangement with jockey Adrian Heskin. Heskin replaced Danny Mullins as Connell’s retainer in October 2014.

No decision on a replacement rider has been made.

Saturday racing at Maralin, Co Down up north at 1.30pm.

2 meetings in the south on Sunday at Dromahane in Cork at 1.30pm and an hour later at Bellurgan Park outside Dundalk in Co Louth

Competition Time We are back with our competitions believe it or not and first up Kilbeggan is on the 22nd of this month. We have 3 pairs of tickets for the first meeting of the season on this track compliments of Secretary Paddy Dunican and to win can you tell us in which county is Kilbeggan racecourse located? Answers please on a post card to The Roscommon People, Abbey Street Roscommon or by e-mail to tomred17@gmail.com by 12.00 pm Wednesday the 20th and don’t forget to include your name, address and a contact phone number with all competition entries. Tickets have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street.

Creggs RFC Report

THE GAIN LINE Creggs seal plate semi-final place

Ballina 20 Creggs 26: Creggs U-15s travelled to Ballina to play the hosts in the quarter-final of the Connacht U-15 Plate on Saturday morning. In almost perfect conditions both teams contributed to what was a tremendous spectacle of underage competitive rugby.

The home team started stronger and soon established a strong lead that they held into half-time – leading at the break 20-7 – a converted try from Jack Keegan being the only score for the Creggs team. The first-half display from Creggs was little indication of what was to come.

No doubt a strong talking-to from coaches Dave Purcell and Aidan Farrell saw the Creggs lads emerge for the second half in a different frame of mind.

This was evident when the excellent Keegan stormed over for his second try converted by Mark Purcell and now Creggs were in the ascendancy.

Sam Sullivan was having a huge game in the centre for Creggs and was getting over the gain line consistently and causing trouble for the Ballina defence. A great break from Sullivan set Aaron Hannon up for the try of the match and Creggs were now within a score. It came with only three minutes to go when great control from the Creggs forwards who had camped on the Ballina line saw Creggs going through multiple phases and Tom Farrell powered over from a few me-

tres out for a try which Purcell converted as Creggs progressed to the semi-final. Creggs will play Oughterard RFC in the semi-final on the weekend of the 17th, with the winners playing the final in the Sportsground the following weekend.

Creggs: Aaron Hannon, Leigh Doyle, Sam Sullivan, Mark Purcell, Aodah Hession, Tom Farrell, Roddie McGuinness, Jonathan Whyte, Thomas O’Brien, Lorcan Maher, Jack Tucker, Jack Hanley, John McDonnell, Jack Keegan, Eric O’Doherty, Evan ComiskeyHoare, Diarmuid Quinn.

U-14s: Creggs U-14s play Ballinasloe RFC away on Saturday evening at 5 pm in the semi-final of the Connacht U-14 Cup. U-17s: Creggs U-17s Plate semi-final against NUIG was postponed last Sunday due to a waterlogged pitch and will be played this Sunday at 1 pm. The winners will play in the final in the Sportsground the following Sunday (17th). The U-17s’ Division 1 League final against Corinthians RFC will take place in Athlone on Sunday, May 1st.

Mini-Rugby: Well done to Creggs U-8s and U-9s who took part in their Connacht Blitz last Saturday in Castlebar. This Saturday Creggs U-10s and Creggs Mini girls have been invited to play at the Aviva Rugby Festival in Ballina. Players to be there at 10.30 am. Lunch will be provided and the blitz will finish

Cregss U-8s and U-9s were in action in a Connacht Blitz in Castlebar, Mayo, last weekend.

at 2.15 pm. A text will go out to all players.

Creggs U-8s/U-9s/U-11s and U12s will finish their season with a blitz away in Claremorris and all details will be sent to players during the week.

Connacht Junior League: Tuam 17 Creggs 24. The day began badly for Creggs with The Green deemed unplayable and the game transferred to Tuam, but it ended well and this win secures a promotion play-off against Connemara, date and venue yet to be decided.

Coming into the game Creggs were four points ahead of third placed Tuam who needed a winning bonus to reverse these positions, they managed only a losing bonus and the win sees Creggs seven points ahead in the final league standings.

Creggs took the lead through a Shane Dowd penalty after just two minutes.

Creggs moved further ahead shortly after when an attempted penalty kick to touch found Creggs full-back Kevin Gavin who broke out past his own 10-

metre line, feeding Dowd who split the Tuam defence with a trademark burst of acceleration, his perfect pass to Ger Heneghan was taken on by the centre who drew the full-back before putting left winger Ryan Horan sprinting through for a scintillating try which Dowd converted to leave his side 10-0 ahead. Creggs suffered a significant loss shortly afterwards when prop Tom Fleming who was playing brilliantly in the loose limped off after 17 minutes.

The remainder of the first half saw the heavier Tuam pack take control and the second quarter was essentially a siege on the Creggs line which was rebuffed by sterling defence, the highlights of which were a superb try-saving tackle by Andrew Callaghan at the corner flag and a magnificent steal by Peter Lohan which interrupted the series of 5 metre scrums threatening the Creggs line. Tuam continued to press however, Creggs lost Andrew Callaghan to a yellow card and ultimately the pressure told when centre Rory Cosgrove crossed for an unconverted try just before half-time, 10-5 at the interval.

Tuam’s out-half Eoin Cosgrove struck the post with a penalty attempt in the eighth minute with Creggs suffering a second yellow card when no. 8 Kevin Brandon was sent to the bin for a transgression apparent only to the referee.

Again confronted by 14 men Tuam upped the intensity but having failed to break through on the short side they let the ball out wide and this proved their undoing when Gavin again pounced on a sloppy pass, accelerating away with Dowd on his shoulder to take the pass and score between the posts, adding the conversion himself.

Within minutes Eoin Cosgrove saw a yellow, fortunate not to see red for a late tackle on Horan before Rory Cosgrove bagged his second try under the posts with the Creggs defenders neutralised by what appeared to be obstruction.

Eoin Kelly added the conversion but within minutes his attempt at a defensive clearance was impressively poached by Aidan Leech who fed Kevin Brandon through Sean Óg Higgins who put Gavin through for a try under the posts again converted by Dowd.

Tuam grabbed a late consolation try through their open-side Brian Ruane with John Donnellan adding a splendid conversion but the game finished with Creggs encamped on the Tuam line with the final league placings no longer in doubt.

Creggs: K Gavin, S Quinn, G Heneghan, T Callaghan, R Horan, S Dowd, A Callaghan, K Brandon, P Lohan, A Brandon, T Oates, R Cassidy, A Leech, S O Higgins, T Fleming, K Ruane, B Donoghue, B Kilcommons, B Egan, P Leech.

48

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

SportsPeople

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

Dope epidemic in the English Premier League < DAN DOONER

Last weekend, the English Premier League was ‘rocked’ by allegations of doping by a Dr. Bonar.

Obviously allegations of cheating of any kind are extremely serious but at the moment very few hard facts have been established so the speculation will continue.

It’s perhaps not surprising however that doping allegations have surfaced in the Premier League as performance-enhancing drugs seem readily available in many other professional sports. Take into account also that professional footballers are under extreme pressure to perform and recover throughout the season and it provides motive and possibly opportunity to do the deed.

Until more evidence is uncovered, however, most media outlets cross channel will play down the allegations so credit

to the Sunday Times for investigating. At the Roscommon People, we’ve carried out our own investigations and it seems that there have been many dopes who have played during the Premier League era. Here’s our top five:

1: David Beckham Ah Becks! Beckham has forged a very successful career and was also a good role model for young players, until he opened his mouth...”My parents have always been there for me ever since I was about seven.” Ever since Beckham’s parents came into his life at the age of seven he’s gone from strength to strength.

2: Alan Shearer Arguably the most boring footballer ever to grace the game, the former England striker made this spooky threat during his time at Newcastle: “I never wanted to leave. I’m here for the rest of my life and hopefully after that as well.”

This week’s Awards…

Phil Neville enjoyed success at Manchester United before becoming Mr. Everton.

He also played for England so he’s really good at geography: “The Brazilians were South American, and the Ukranians will be more European.”

in There was a six-goal thrillerletLecarrow as St. John’s Athted ic overcame Cloonfad Uni g 4-2. Also worth mentioninas is the Glen Celtic/Brazuk to game which finished 3-2 Brazukas.

Goal of the Week

to We’re going to give this r Wes Morgan of Leiceste and City. A real captain’s goal biga major step towards the in gest fairytale league win the Premier League era.

4: Ian Wright

5: Jason McAteer The former Liverpool player should be probably be much higher on this list, but as he’s one of our own we decided to go easy on him.

The man who once greeted Jimmy White by shouting “180!” and thought it was a good

loe This must go to Ballinas4-0 Town for their ruthless n win over Ballaghaderree in the Connacht Junior Cup quarter-finals.

Game of the Week

3: Phil Neville

When discussing former Arsenal Captain, Tony Adams’ admission of alcohol addiction, the exArsenal striker offered this insight: “It took a lot of bottle for Tony to own up.”

Team of the Week

Jason McAteer had a habit of rubbing people up the wrong way.

idea to wind Roy Keane up, was asked in a takeaway whether he wanted his pizza cut into eight or four slices: “Four, I’m not

that hungry,” he replied.

So there you have it; there’s no need to wait until ex-pros release autobiographies to discover

a dope epidemic in the Premier League.

Most of the dopes have been operating in front of our very eyes for years!

Soccer Results Saturday, 2nd April The Herald Premier Division Castlerea Celtic v Dysart FC, postponed Moore United v MD Town, postponed Killeen Sports Ground Division 2 Cloonfad United B 2 Skyvalley Rovers B 2

Sunday, 3rd April Connacht Junior Cup Quarter-Final Ballaghaderreen FC 0 Ballinasloe Town 4 Ian Wright’s big mouth occasionally gets him into trouble.

David Beckham is thankful for his parents’ help since coming into his life at age 7.

Dooner’s weekend predictions There was a rake of postponements last weekend as the weather continues to play havoc with games across the county. This weekend there are plenty of fixtures down for decision but keep an eye on the weather forecast as the weekend approaches.

Friday, April 8th The Herald Premier Division (8 pm) Castlerea Celtic v Ballaghaderreen FC Arguably game of the weekend as Ballaghaderreen look to recover from their Connacht Junior Cup thumping against Ballinasloe and Castlerea look to shake off the cobwebs of their free weekend. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic.

Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (8 pm) Glen Celtic v Kilkerrin United Both sides have endured mixed fortunes this season and very little separates them

in the Division One table.

Prediction: Glen Celtic.

Saturday, April 9th RDFL Challenge Cup Round 3 (6.30 pm) Dysart FC v Ballinasloe Town Ballinasloe Town are looking good for silverware this season and should have too much for Dysart.

Prediction: Ballinasloe Town.

The Herald Premier Division (7.45 pm) Cloonfad United v Moore United Moore quite simply need to win this in order to keep pace with those at the top of the league.

Prediction: Moore United.

Sunday, April 10th The Herald RDFL Cup

Round 2 (2 pm) Loughglynn United v CP Ajax Interesting tie this one and a real test of CP Ajax’s credentials.

Prediction: Loughglynn United.

The Herald RDFL Cup Round 3 (2 pm) Castlerea Celtic v Ballaghaderreen FC B This promises to be a difficult afternoon for the visitors with Castlerea looking good at this stage of the season.

Prediction: Castlerea Celtic.

Ballinasloe Town B v Lough Harps A chance for Lough Harps to prove their worth ahead of next season in Division One. Ballinasloe have already proven they can live there.

Prediction: Ballinasloe Town B. The Herald Premier Division (2 pm) Ballaghaderreen FC v

Skyvalley Rovers The home side have games in hand and need to win them all to have a realistic chance of challenging for the title.

Prediction: Ballaghaderreen FC. Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (2 pm) Brazukas v Ahascragh United Brazukas can really put pressure on Ahascragh with a win here.

Prediction: Brazukas.

Killeen Sports Ground Division 2 (2 pm) Moore United v KC Celtic Close one to call.

Prediction: Moore United.

MD Town B v Moylough ‘79 Could go either way.

Prediction: Draw.

St. John’s Athletic v Cloonfad United B No home comfort for harbour men.

Prediction: Cloonfad United B.

The Herald Premier Division St. John’s Athletic 4 Cloonfad United 2 Ballymoe FC v Skyvalley Rovers, postponed.

The Herald RDFL Cup Round 2 Glen Celtic 2 Brazukas 3 Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 Ballaghaderreen FC B 0 Ahascragh United 2 Loughglynn United 2 Ballinasloe Town B 2 Killeen Sports Ground Division 2 KC Celtic 0 MD Town B 2 Lough Harps 2 Moore United B 0 St. John’s Athletic B 0 CP Ajax 2

Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Dan’s SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER Buses, trains and automobiles: Supporters head to Carrick THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner My phone pinged at about 9.30 am on Sunday morning just as I was dreaming of an epic Roscommon/Dublin battle in a sunny Dr. Hyde Park.

It was a press release from Roscommon GAA. Seemingly Roscommon’s pitch would not be playable for the Division One clash with Dublin after all, but not to worry, Leitrim weren’t playing at home, so we could use theirs.

Within minutes, the phone was ringing with requests for updates from Dublin fans en route to Roscommon. “What’s the story? Has it been changed?

Where’s Carrick-on-Shannon, is that not in Tipperary?”

A lot has already been written, tweeted and said about the late,

late venue change last Sunday but it must be remembered that the Roscommon County Board did everything they could to have Dr. Hyde Park playable.

Something doesn’t sit right with me though; I’m not disputing that player welfare is extremely important, but what about supporters?

Following GAA in this country has become an expensive business with tickets and merchandise priced extremely high for an amateur sport. Let’s face it, if the fans treated the GAA the way the GAA treat fans, there would be no Croke Park or Club Rossie bus.

The Hyde Park pitch was cut to ribbons following the Mayo game and I believe a decision should have been made earlier, even late Saturday night. I understand that hosting a Division One match against the All-Ireland champions is a huge deal for the town but there comes a time when you have to cut your losses

Darts

Concannon makes it four-in-a-row Last Bank Holiday Monday saw the annual Martin Kelly Cup being contested in the Hollywood Bar with David Concannon completing a stunning fourth win in a row. Also competed for on the day was the prize for Best Lady with Katrina Behan taking the title.

The men’s final was played out by two familiar figures on the Roscommon darts scene, John Paul Feeney and David Concannon, who went toe to toe with the Ballinaheglish man coming out on top with a 6-4 win. Well done to both players on a top class display.

Outside of the darts on the day, this competition has always raised funds for worthwhile causes and this year was no different as a huge €550 was raised in aid of Ronald McDonald House. Many thanks to all who helped support this very worthwhile cause.

Thanks also to the generosity of the sponsors of prizes on the day and those who purchased raffle tickets.

The cup and shield results from last weekend were as follows: Creaton’s 2 Charlie’s 5, The Hatch 3 The Forge 4, Creaton’s 2 Ned’s 5, The Forge 4 Hollywood 3, An Bothar Rua 5 Charlie’s 2, McDermott’s 7 Flanagan’s 0.

This weekend sees the cup semi-finals taking place with the teams listed first enjoying home advantage this week: McDermott’s v An Bothar Rua, The Forge v Ned’s. The shield semi-finals also take place this weekend: The Hatch v Flanagan’s, Charlie’s v Hollywood. Both cup and shield finals will take place in Hannon’s Hotel on Saturday, April 23rd.

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The week in numbers

6 2 7

That’s the amount of games remaining in the English Premier League season. Can Leicester hold on?

That’s the amount of games left between Roscommon and National League glory!

That’s the amount of matches Roscommon handball doubles partnerships have in All-Ireland ties this weekend.

Sporting week on Tweet Street Sleaford Town FC @SleafordTownFC Sorry for break in tweets. I came on as a sub for Millard. Other subs were Anderson for Millington and Hollingsworth for Wright. (When the impact sub is in charge of the club’s social media.)

John Patrick O’Connor and Emma Connaughton present the match ball to referee, Derek O’Mahony, as Roscommon captain Ciarán Murtagh and Dublin captain, Stephen Cluxton prepare to do battle before Sunday’s match in Carrick-on-Shannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

and be fair to the supporters of both teams.

Hyde Park will be sorted for 2017 we have been assured, but

the goodwill earned on the field of play by Roscommon has been affected by the handling of matters off it.

Golf

Rain jackets in Roscommon, green ones in Augusta While the US Masters takes place this weekend it was business as usual for golfers across Roscommon. No green jackets here, but keep your rain jackets handy just in case.

Carrick-on-Shannon was invaded by Roscommon and Dublin fans last weekend but there was still solitude to be found on the course the week before.

The Easter Open was won by Eamonn McGirl with 41 points on the back nine while Tom Daly finished second, Noel McDermott took Gross and John Crowe had something to, eh, crow about, in third.

In Castlerea, last week’s Ladies’ competition was won by Breege Cullen with 35 points with Kathy Burke in second on 30. The men’s competition had to be cancelled due to the weather.

In Roscommon, Super Mario Costelloe won the men’s competition with 38 points while Francie Noone (also 38 points) finished second. The men’s over 55’s was won by P. McDonagh while the

senior ladies competition was won by J. Halliday. Meanwhile the Fred Daly team was beaten by a strong Tuam outfit last Saturday.

Up in Strokestown last weekend’s men’s competition was won by Gerry Houlihan while Colm Dardis took the senior men’s competition last Tuesday and Bernie Taylor and Rose Lally triumphed among the ladies.

In Athlone, the AWGS competition was won by M. Cleary with 29 points while the Sonas Easter Open was taken by Denis Earley on 43 points. In the Granard Foursomes, Lily O’Sullivan and Sheila Geraghty finished first with 37 points.

Finally for this week we go to Boyle where last Thursday’s Men’s Open 9hole was won by Tom Kearney with 21 points with Patrick Egan in second on 20 and Charlie O’Donnell in third on 19.

Patrick Egan went one better during last Saturday’s outing to Tullamore where he finished first with 36 points. The ladies’ section was won by Sandra McCrann.

Jonathan walters @JonWalters19 Apologies for no post op selfie. I had surgery yesterday and all went well, delighted to have moved up two cup sizes. (Jon Walters updated Ireland and Stoke City fans on his recovery.)

Eamonn O’Hara @EamonnOHara8 Delighted to see @RoscommonGAA are gonna get use out of there (sic) bus today shipping @DubGAAOfficial fans to Carrick on Shannon. (It may take a while to live last Sunday down!)

Handball

Handballers set for All-Ireland semi-finals A busy weekend ahead for County Roscommon handballers as there are seven doubles partnerships taking part in All-Ireland semi-finals against Ulster opposition.

On Saturday, Dermot Doolin and Ger Walsh, travel to Belfast to take on old rivals, Thomas Maguire and Anthony Caddell, in the Emerald Masters Doubles.

On Sunday in St. Coman’s: Fiona Tully and Jennifer McCormack have a tough test against Armagh pair, Niamh Coleman and Megan McCann, in the Ladies’ Minor Doubles. They are followed by surprise Connacht Junior ‘B’ champions, Pauric Coyle and Enda Ward from Curraghboy, who take on Gavin Coyle and Gary McElroy from Monaghan. In the third match, Cormac O’Brien and Aengus Cunningham face the daunting task of trying to defeat former Senior champions, Paddy Carruthers and John McGarry from Belfast, in the Silver Masters grade.

Also on Sunday in Beragh, Co. Tyrone, three more partnerships take on strong Tyrone opposition. Ladies Junior ‘B’ pair Linda Connolly and Siobhan Tully are playing well and can defeat Tyrone’s Michelle Warren and Emma Lyttle. Fairymount’s Michael Carroll and partner won’t find it easy against Gabhain McCrystall and Pól Clarke in the U-21 grade. The Junior match-up could be the game of the weekend as Oisin Naughton and Darren Beatty take on Ryan Daly and Barry Devlin.

Thomas O’Brien was the only Roscommon player involved in the qualifiers for the 40x20 Juvenile Nationals last weekend. He took on Galway opposition last Saturday in St. Coman’s in two matches for the right to compete in the finals of the 13 & under ‘B’ grade on 16th and 17th of April. Thomas ran out an easy winner over Inis Mor’s Brian O’Cualain and Abbeyknockmoy’s Shane Flesk and on current form could have a good run in the finals.

A guide to Dublin for Rossies… < DAN DOONER

New destinations can be tricky to navigate but fear not, the Roscommon People is here to provide travel tips to those of you travelling to Croke Park this Sunday for the National League semi-final.

Dublin is located at the very end of the M6; if you arrive in Galway you’ve gone the wrong way.

The county’s main exports are Guinness and Bono (the future saint).

Some of you have been to Dublin before no doubt, but travelling

to the northside in April carries different challenges to travelling to Grafton Street on December 8th.

Firstly, if travelling by train you will arrive at Heuston Station, which is still a good distance from Croke Park. You may need to jump on a bus or two or hail a taxi. Luckily, bus prices in Dublin are far cheaper than those between Roscommon and Carrickon-Shannon and you should have plenty of change out of €10.

When it comes to the local lingo, Dublin people or ‘Dubs’ as they’re

known have a unique dialect.

“Story bud” loosely translates as “well buck” while “deadly buzz” is the equivalent of “sound”.

If you are planning on drinking alcohol or eating food in a Dublin establishment or even requesting a glass of tap water, prepare to pay.

A pint of Guinness can cost about €6 while food will require a Credit Union loan and tap water is probably the same as a pint of Guinness in Roscommon.

The people of Dublin are quite friendly but do enjoy ‘slagging

matches’ which loosely translates as making fun of each other for entertainment. Please don’t take anything too personally, and the best response is usually to laugh and poke fun back.

Finally, don’t worry if it rains for the rest of the week. Dublin’s home venue is well drained and should be passed by Sunday’s referee or members of the Central Competitions Control Committee. Enjoy your stay at the home of Sam Maguire and don’t be surprised if Dublin fans are roaring The Club Rossie bus will get plenty of mileage this weekend as the the Rossies on this weekend.

Roscommon senior footballers travel to Croke Park.

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Eirgrid U-21 Connacht Football Championship Final: Mayo 1-11 Roscommon 1-10

Who’d be a manager?

Roscommon U-21 team manager Mark Dowd in a series of photographs on the sideline at Markievicz Park, Sligo last Saturday.

Photographic sequence: Andrew Fox

Mayo rule Connacht Dowd rues missed chances and key injuries after heartbreak defeat < DAN DOONER AT MARKIEVICZ PARK

R

Cathal Compton rises highest to deny possession to Mayo. Picture: Andrew Fox

oscommon U-21 manager, Mark Dowd, was left rueing missed chances and injuries as the Rossies just came up short in their bid to win a third Connacht title in a row.

“You saw the way the year went for us, we had a lot of players out. Shane Mannion our goalkeeper failed a fitness test the night before…(then) during the game you lose Seán Mullooly and Cathal Compton, they’re all key players for us. To have those guys on the pitch with twenty minutes to go would have got us

Pictured is Roscommon’s Diarmuid Murtagh accepting the Man of the Match award for his performance in Roscommon’s Eirgrid U-21 Connacht Championship Final defeat against Mayo in Markievicz Park last Saturday.

over the line. We were doing so well during the game and those guys were playing well and we felt that they still could have contributed something,” said Dowd.

Roscommon got off to a flier thanks to high-pressing and sloppy Mayo possession. Diarmuid Murtagh gave Roscommon the perfect start after just three minutes when he collected a long ball from Cathal Compton, broke away from his marker, swivelled and finished brilliantly past Mattie Flanagan in the Mayo goal. Less than a minute later and Murtagh was causing Mayo problems once again; this time with a well-tak-

en point. After just five minutes Roscommon had a five-point lead as Henry Walsh slalomed through the Mayo defence and slotted over. Ronan Daly then got in on the act when he pointed beautifully from the left flank. Ten minutes in and Roscommon’s energetic high-pressing game had left Mayo struggling for breath.

In fairness to Mayo they showed tremendous heart in the face of the onslaught and got on the scoreboard through Fionan Duffy eleven minutes in. From there until half-time it became a bit more tit-for-tat with the energetic Ultan Harney and the accurate Conor Loftus exchanging scores before Liam Irwin opened his account for the Mayo men with a brilliantly struck ‘45.

Murtagh and Daly extended Roscommon’s lead and it could and should have been more; Henry Walsh rounded Flanagan before missing a glorious goal

chance from point-blank range.

Sean Mullooly’s black card and another well-taken free from Irwin altered the complexion of the game before half-time as the scoreboard read Roscommon 16 Mayo 0-4.

Into the second half and it was Mayo who started brightly as Roscommon’s mounting injuries seemed to take their toll.

A free from Conor Loftus was added to by a brilliant Fergal Boland effort from play. Al Pacino once said that football’s a game of inches; in between those two Mayo scores Diarmuid Murtagh had a goal-bound effort brilliantly saved by Flanagan while Hubert Darcy missed an opportunity for a point. How costly that period in the game was to prove for Roscommon as Mayo turned the screw and narrowed the gap. A harsh free given against Mark Daly was converted by Conor Loftus to make it a two-point game ten

Tadhg O’Rourke has the strength of his jersey tested by Diarmuid O’Connor. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Eirgrid U-21 Connacht Football Championship Final: Mayo 1-11 Roscommon 1-10

with an Irwin fist minutes into the second half.

Dowd felt the tide turning in the second period: “We did make a few changes in the second half and we were hoping to get an extra bit of a push on. We had our chances in the game, even in the second half. It was something we had talked to the lads about…that we probably wouldn’t get as much ball in the second half. We knew Mayo were going to come back at us, we needed to just try and keep the scoreboard ticking and unfortunately we had the chances but we didn’t take them.”

There was bound to be controversy and it almost came in the shape of a Ronan Daly point for Roscommon. The ball had gone over the bar despite Mattie Flanagan’s best efforts and was given wide before the referee stepped in to award the point and reinstate Roscommon’s three-point lead. From then on it was a real humdinger, with

both sides dug in for the fight.

Brian Reape pointed for Mayo before Diarmuid Murtagh, who quite frankly was unmarkable at times, slotted over a free. Liam Irwin certainly wasn’t to be outdone in the placed-ball stakes and he kept Mayo in touch with a sweetly-struck free before Brian Stack cancelled out Fionan Duffy’s second point of the game.

Then disaster for the Rossies as Liam Irwin beat Regan Fahy to a Fergal Boland cross and fisted beyond the helpless Tulsk ‘keeper to put Mayo ahead for the first time, with three minutes to go. Roscommon showed the stuff of champions in the final stages as they pushed tired bodies and minds to the limit. Man of the Match, Diarmuid Murtagh, seemed to have forced extra-time before Michael Plunkett smashed over a late winner to the despair of the travelling Rossies.

A brave performance from Mark Dowd’s troops fell just short as a dogged Mayo team led by the impressive Irwin held on to claim their first Connacht title at this level since 2009.

When the dust settled, Roscommon manager Mark Dowd was proud of the effort of his players but disappointed with the outcome: “We probably should have got a bit more from the referee on decisions but look, you mentioned Diarmuid Murtagh and he’s a class act, no doubt about it. Other guys played well like Ronan Daly, Brian Stack had another fine game, Jack Connaughton back in the corner played very well for us, Fergal Lennon; these are a lot of lads who are underage again next year for U-21s so this year will give them great experience.”

Best for Roscommon were Diarmuid Murtagh, Ultan Harney and Ronan Daly while Mayo were served best by Liam Ir-

Diarmuid Murtagh is surrounded by four players as he claims possession for Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox

win, Fionan Duffy and Conor Loftus.

Roscommon: R. Fahey; J. Connaughton, S. Mullooly, K. Beirne; R. Daly (0-3), F. Lennon, B. Stack (0-1); T. O’ Rourke, C. Compton; K. Farrell, H. Walsh (0-1), B. Kelly; D. Murtagh (1-4, 2 frees), H. Darcy, U. Harney (0-1). Subs: M. Daly for Mullooly (30 minutes, black card), R. Raftery for Compton (36 minutes), C. Callinan for Kelly (46 minutes), K. Smith for Walsh (58 minutes).

Mayo: M. Flanagan; D. Kenny, S. Cunniffe, E. Doran; M. Hall, S. Coen; S. Akram; D. O’Connor; M. Ruane; M. Plunkett (0-1), C. Loftus (0-3, 3 frees), F. Boland (0-1); L. Irwin (1-3, 2 frees, 1 ‘45), B. Reape (0-1), F. Duffy (0-2). Subs: E. O’Donoghue for Doran (18 minutes), J. Carr for Loftus (45 minutes).

Referee: James Molloy (Galway).

Stat Attack Wides: Roscommon 5 (2 first half); Mayo 4 (3 first half) Yellow Cards: Mayo 2 (B. Reape, E. O’Donoghue); Roscommon 1 (U. Harney) Black Cards: Roscommon 1 (Sean Mullooly); Mayo 0 Red Cards: None Man of the Match: Diarmuid Murtagh (Roscommon) Attendance: 2,270

Ultan Harney carries possession forward. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

SportsPeople GAA Results Allianz National Football League Division 1 Dublin 1-13 Roscommon 1-12 Lidl LGFA National Football League Division 3 Tipperary 2-16 Roscommon 2-8 Eirgrid Connacht U-21 Championship Final Mayo 1-11 Roscommon 1-10 Connacht Minor Football League Round 5 Galway 4-10 Roscommon 0-9 Adult Football League Division 3 (Tansey Cup) Western Gaels 1-11 St. Brigid’s 2-8 Adult Football League Division 4 St. Croan’s 6-18 Boyle 2-10 Pádraig Pearses W/O v Kilglass Gaels Strokestown 2-16 Clann na nGael 1-10 St. Ronan’s 0-13 Oran 1-8 Adult Football League Division 5 Kilmore 0-12 Kilbride 1-7

Slow Roscommon start Tipps the balance Lidl LGFA National Football League Division 3 1-18

TIPPERARY

2-8

ROSCOMMON Tipperary ran out comfortable winners against the Roscommon ladies at Lattin Cullen last Sunday as the visitors failed to get going at the start of both halves.

Frees from Jenny Downey and a Siobhán Tully effort which probably should have been a goal were among the scores as Roscommon trailed the Premier County 1-5 to 0-6 at

half-time.

Tipperary’s half-time substitute, Eimear Myles blasted a goal early in the second half which ended any hope of a Roscommon comeback. However the Rossies never gave up and goals from Jenny Higgins and Rachel Fitzmaurice made a game of it after they were introduced from

the bench.

It just wasn’t to be, however, as Tipperary continued to cause problems for the visitors and Edel Hanley, Mairead Morrissey and Aisling Moloney tagged on scores to confirm the win for the home side.

Roscommon: R. Timothy; N. Feeney, C. Gunning, J.

Geoghegan; H. Ennis, S. Kenny, A. McLoone; J. Cregg (0-1), L. Fleming; S. Tully (0-1), J. Downey (0-5, all frees), C. Beirne; S. Brady, M. Freyne, R. Ryan (0-1). Subs used: J. Higgins (1-0), A. McAuliffe (1-0), L. McLoone, D. Regan, T. Kelly, A. Beades, T. Murtagh, S. Connell, C. Beirne.

Poor start costs minors dearly

Adult Football League Division 6 St. Faithleach’s W/O v Shannon Gaels Tulsk Lord Edwards W/O v St. Barry’s

GAA Fixtures

Connacht Minor Football League Friday, April 8th

Allianz NHL Division 2B Relegation Promotion Play-off At Ballina: Roscommon v Donegal Adult Football League Division 3 (Tansey Cup) At Croghan: Shannon Gaels v Castlerea St. Kevin’s. 5 pm Sunday, April 10th

Allianz NFL Division 1 Semi-Final At Croke Park: Roscommon v Kerry 2pm Adult Football League Division 1 (O’Rourke Cup) At Strokestown: Strokestown v Oran. 2 pm

Underage GAA Fixtures Thursday, April 7th

U-14 Football League Division 3 At Tulsk: Tulsk Lord Edwards v Kilglass Gaels/St. Barry’s. 7 pm U-14 Football League Division 4 At Michael Glavey’s: Michael Glavey’s v St. Brigid’s. 7.30 pm Friday, April 8th

Saturday, April 9th

U-16 Football League Division 1 At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Castlerea St. Kevin’s. 5 pm U-16 Football League Division 3 At Orchard Park: Elphin v Kilglass Gaels/St. Barry’s. 5 pm U-12 Spring League Division 1 At Abbey Park: Boyle v St. Ciaran’s. 12 pm At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Pádraig Pearses. 12 pm At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v St. Brigid’s. 12 pm U-12 Spring League Division 2 At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St Kevin’s v Strokestown. 12 pm At Orchard Park: Elphin-Ballinameen v Kilbride. 12 pm At Rockfield: Oran v St. Dominic’s. 12 pm U-12 Spring League Division 3 At Michael Glavey’s: Michael Glavey’s v Tulsk Lord Edwards. 12 pm At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v St. Michael’s. 12 pm At Enfield: St. Croan’s v St. Faithleach’s. 12 pm U-12 Spring League Division 4 At James Timothy Park: Éire Óg v Shannon Gaels. 12 pm U-12 Spring League Division 5 At Kilmore: Kilmore v Pádraig Pearses. 4 pm At Kilglass: Kilglass Gaels v St. Brigid’s. 4 pm U-12 Spring League Division 6 At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Kilbride. 1.30 pm At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v St. Dominic’s. 4 pm

0-9

ROSCOMMON

Saturday, April 9th

U-14 Football League Division 3 At James Timothy Park: Éire Óg v St. Faithleach’s. 7 pm U-12 Spring League Division 4 At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v St Barry’s. 7 pm

4-10

GALWAY

Adult Football League Division 3 (Tansey Cup) At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v Western Gaels. 8 pm

Tomás Brady gets his shot away at goal despite the best efforts of Niall Kilroy. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon minor footballers suffered a heavy defeat against Galway in Tuam Stadium last Saturday after the Tribesmen opened up a 15-point lead in the first 21 minutes.

Things didn’t get much better for the Rossies as the game wore on and Galway’s Rob Finnerty caused them no end of problems as he hit a goal and a point on the day.

There were also goals for Darragh Silke, Finian O’Laoi and Luke Smyth as Roscommon had a day to forget.

Roscommon had improved in the second half with good scores from

Cian McKeon, Ciaran Lennon and David McManus but the damage had been done and Galway ran out easy winners.

Roscommon: L. Cregg; K. Dockery, A. Dowd, D. Duff; L. Daly (0-1), D. McManus (0-1), G. Kelly; L. Mollohan, C. Shanagher (0-1); K. Murphy (0-2), C. McKeon (0-3, 2 frees), M. Bourke; C. Heneghan, C. Lennon (0-1), B. Derwin. Subs: P. Halpin for Dockery (19 mins), C. Fahy for Heneghan (39 mins), D. Glynn for Derwin (44 mins), A. Whyte for Daly (51 mins), J. Fetherson for Mollahan (56 mins).

Letter to Editor

Reader’s anger over Hyde Park issue < DEAR EDITOR,

Firstly please may I have a little space on your widely read newspaper (for which I thank you) to vent my anger today.

Let me say at the outset how proud I am of the Roscommon footballers and their mentors and the immense joy they have given us all in the past few months. Congrats and well done boys. You are a credit to yourselves, your families, your county and to the people who work with you. And hopefully we, the supporters, have a little say in this joyous situation as well.

But to get back to the despicable situation of not hosting any of the Division One matches here in

the county town (bar one against Mayo which was an insult to all concerned, to put it mildly).

What about all the revenue that has been lost to hotels, guesthouses, food outlets, shops, pubs, etc.?

I am not a spokesperson for businesses but I could understand their anger. Is nobody shouting from the rooftops at Roscommon County Board officials or their fixtures committee?

What were they thinking or who is responsible?

Were they all asleep?

Were these fixtures not made way back last year?

Could the County Board officials not have foreseen the situation and have prepared Hyde Park for these upcoming matches in that timeframe? Did we not have lovely weather

in the month of October and into November? How long does it take to polefork and sand a piece of ground? Not rocket science, I would think.

We have trawled the length and breath of Connacht to attend fixtures at enormous expense and inconvenience. How disrespectful to the boys on the team, to visiting teams and to us, the die-hard supporters who

are – as ever – faithful, not to mention Sunday’s late decision to transfer the match to Carrick-onShannon with one hour of a traffic jam and major delays to access the pitch.

Was that pitch in mint condition? How about Dublin supporters having to bus it to Carrick? This wouldn’t happen in any of the other 31 counties in Ireland. We are the laughing stock of the country,

and made the national news headlines.

County Board officials – do we supporters not deserve an apology for this debacle? Well done the boys and long may your success continue, despite the negatives.

Yours sincerely, Disgruntled, deflated, disgusted fan (Name withheld on request)

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Allianz National Football League Division One: Dublin 1-13 Roscommon 1-12 THE PEOPLE’S PUNDIT

TIME ADDED ON…

Jack Sheedy (Former Dublin star and ex-Longford manager)

Talking Point VENUE CHANGE: It was 9.30 am when the confirmation email pinged in inboxes from Dublin to Roscommon. The game would no longer be held in Dr. Hyde Park, it would be shifted to a different venue: Carrick-on-Shannon, to be precise. Cue panic among the Blue Army as they arrived on trains and buses from the Capital. Let’s make no mistake; this was a complete shambles and put the Roscommon County Board in an unfavourable spotlight.

‘It was good at times certainly (Roscommon performance) – having said that, given the team Dublin had out, most of them haven’t played consistently together throughout the National League, I thought it was a very good Dublin performance also.

‘They made it difficult for Roscommon but in fairness they came back into the game and they never gave up. They kept plugging away and Senan Kilbride’s goal gave them a real lifeline and opened up a little bit of belief. A lot of teams that play Dublin don’t have the belief in themselves and possibly getting that goal ignited a bit of belief and helped them chase it down right to the end.

‘I haven’t been hugely surprised by Roscommon, we played them two years ago in Division Three with Longford and some of those young lads, the Murtaghs and the Smiths and those guys, were coming through at that stage.

The talent has been there, the pool is getting bigger all the time and certainly it has been very progressive.

‘A couple of wins really enforces the belief in themselves and it’s going to be a huge plus for them as they go into the championship.’

This Time Last Year Roscommon 2-13 Westmeath 0-12 (National League Division 2, at Cusack Park, Mullingar).

Next on the List Allianz National Football League Semi-Final v Kerry on Sunday. Venue: Croke Park.

Media View ‘The Dublin football team collected their seventh win on the trot – and perhaps, also, a few lost metropolitan fans wandering around the Connacht interior – in this entertaining game which was both a testament to their limitless strength in depth and to Roscommon’s spirit of adventure.

‘Ciaran Murtagh’s injury-time free would have earned Roscommon a famous home-away-fromhome draw here but the captain slipped as he struck the ball; a forgivable mistake in an other-wise flawless performance.

‘Roscommon had clawed their way out of a 0-9 to 0-3 half-time hole; they had two men black carded, coughed up a sucker-punch goal superbly finished

by Dean Rock, had a 61st minute goal disallowed and were lifted by an exceptional defensive display

by Niall McInerney on an afternoon when they reaffirmed their status as a first division team.’

Talk of the terrace Dublin fan: Sell that big blue and yella bus and drain your pitch!

Dublin fan: Will that big team bus do a few trips from Roscommon and back?

Dublin fan: Where in the name o’ Jaysus is Carrickon-Shannon anyway?

The big match on Tweet Street

– Keith Duggan, The Irish Times

Not surprisingly, the late change of venue almost blew up Twitter over the weekend…

gone to Carrick on Shannon at 2pm. (At 9:32 am on Sunday, things had changed.)

‘Dublin completed a perfect Division 1 campaign when they withstood a spirited Roscommon rally in a frenzied finale at Pairc Sean MacDiarmada in Carrick-on-Shannon.

‘Roscommon joint-manager Kevin McStay told his players to “take risks” in the second half and they did just that in a more energetic display, spearheaded by Niall McInerney, David Murray, Murtagh and Shine.’

Roscommon GAA @RoscommonGAA Forget all the April Fools Rubbish you’ve heard. Roscommon Dublin is in the Hyde at 2pm on Sunday.

(Roscommon GAA got into the spirit on April Fool’s Day.)

Roscommon GAA PRO Hugh Lynn could see what was coming on Facebook…

Helmet and Flacker on. PRO gone to the bunker.

Roscommon GAA @RoscommonGAA Roscommon v Dublin Match is

The inevitable social media reaction…(what we could print anyway...)

– The Irish Daily Star

Roscommon fan: Shure I’m waiting for that feckin’ ref to give himself a black card.

Seamus Nugent pictured in Carrick-on-Shannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Sixpointsup @sixpointsup @RoscommonGAA Shabby County, you should spend more on pitches, less on a bus. (Don’t mention buses!)

Stephen @finnsoyls @RoscommonGAA yous (ye) couldn’t write this stuff. 2 weeks you had to make this decision I suppose all the hotels and bars have there (sic) money. (Some fans even forgot about the Mayo game they were so angry.)

Richie Conway @Richieconway79 @RoscommonGAA another embarrassing episode for Roscommon, we are meant to be playing in Div 1 and no home pitch. #muppets (Roscommon supporters borrowed Dublin lingo to make their point.)

John Duggan @jduggantodayfm A bit late in the day isn’t it. #Roscommon (The Today FM sports editor was more understated.)

Dublin fans react to Connaughton post < DAN DOONER

Fergal O’Donnell vents his frustration to Derek O’Mahoney during half-time after the Tipperary native issued black cards to Cathal Cregg and Seanie McDermott. Picture: Andrew Fox

Fianna Fáil Councillor, Ivan Connaughton, took to Facebook to express his surprise at Dublin supporters “complaining about a bus costing €10”.

The Facebook post read: ‘Surprised to hear the Dublin supporters complaining about a bus costing €10. In fairness Roscommon County Board do not have financial resources to pay the cost. I have no doubt when we come up to

Dublin next Sunday we would have had complimentary travel on Dublin Bus and The Luas (if not on strike). And not to mention cheaper alcohol, food and accommodation, Sure if we had the financial assistance given to Dublin every year from the GAA, it would be Dublin coming down to play the All-Ireland and League champions today. Roscommon ABU.’ The Dublin supporters Facebook page picked

up on Connaughton’s post and responded in kind. Among the many angry comments left by visitors to the page, the admins themselves had this to say: ‘We here at the Dubs supporters page have been made aware of this post by a local politician from Roscommon on his social media page.

Politicians with real aspirations tend to be representative of those they serve.

‘I have not heard any

Dub present yesterday speak ill of the Roscommon people they met over the course of the weekend. Mr. Connaughton certainly isn’t speaking for his constituents either if anyone has read the comments on his page.

He has tried to gain political ground by having a swipe at visiting supporters who spent their hard earned cash in his constituency over the weekend. He has failed miserably.’

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Allianz National Football League Division One: Dublin 1-13 Roscommon 1-12

CAUGHT BETWEEN ROCK Condition of Hyde Park in spotlight again as impressive Rossies rattle champions < DAN DOONER AT PAIRC SEÁN MAC DIARMADA

D

Senan Kilbride rises above Michael Savage to knock the ball into the back of the Dublin net. Picture: Andrew Fox

ublin sharpshoot-

er Dean Rock was in the mood last Sunday in the changed venue of Carrick-on-Shannon as the All-Ireland champions made it seven wins from seven games against a plucky Roscommon team.

Dublin manager, Jim Gavin, was adamant that the late venue change didn’t upset his charges: “From the Dublin football team’s point of view it wasn’t an issue – we had an alternate plan and we just put that into place when we found out just shortly after 9 o’clock this (Sunday) morning.”

Roscommon started well and took the lead in this absorbing contest, with Niall Daly and Ciarán Murtagh on target. The ‘home’ side were playing with energy and finding space. When Dublin arrived into the match it was devastating. Dean Rock took advantage of over-zealous Roscommon defending as he converted two frees to add to his opening score from play to edge Dublin in front after 17 minutes.

Rock was to convert three more frees before half-time to add to a

Conor McHugh effort and a well-taken score from Kevin McManamon following a pick-up and turn

by McHugh that was so beautiful it made the main stand purr. Shane Carthy added a fisted point before Donie Shine responded for Roscommon.

Sean McDermott and Cathal Cregg of Roscommon both saw black in a first half that wasn’t particularly cynical. As the half ended with Dublin 0-9 0-3 in front, Roscommon joint manager, Fergal O’Donnell, made his views known to the officials who were booed off by the Roscommon fans.

O’Donnell believed his charges were hard done by the referee in the first period: “I thought he was harsh on us in the first half I have to say that. I thought Seanie’s (McDermott) was a shoulder, a yellow card for rough play.”

The second half started in much the same vein as the first as Donie Shine was denied a goal by Dublin goalkeeper Michael Savage and Conor Devanney opened the scoring, all in the first few moments. This provided encouragement and Shine set about making amends for his missed opportunity.

Niall Daly fed him and Shine turned and struck a

Stat Attack Wides: Roscommon 6 (2 in first half), Dublin 11 (6 in first half) Yellow Cards: Roscommon 1 (S. Purcell), Dublin 2 (K. McManamon and K. O’Brien) Black cards: Roscommon 2 (S. McDermott and C. Cregg), Dublin 1 (E. Lowndes) Red cards: None Attendance: 12,000 Man of the Match: Dean Rock (Dublin) Niall Kilroy pictured in Carrick-onShannon.

Picture: Andrew Fox

Seanie McDermott protests to the referee after controversially receiving a black card. Picture: Andrew Fox

fine score.

Suddenly Roscommon were in freeflow – Sean Purcell fed Ciarán Murtagh who struck over as the underdogs smelt blood.

Dean Rock meanwhile was back in service giving Dublin a four-point lead with another free before Murtagh added a free of his own to leave a goal between them with 11 minutes played in a breathless opening to the second half. Dublin then entered a wasteful period as McManamon, Rock and substitute Paul Mannion all struck wides and the league leaders became guilty of over-playing the ball in scoring positions.

Rock steadied the Dublin ship with another free after 20 minutes of the second period. Then Ciarán Murtagh pulled one back for Roscommon before a devastating Dublin passing move sent Rock through on goal. He made no mistake and provided daylight for the Dubs.

If the sizeable Carrick crowd thought that was game over they were mistaken as two minutes later a speculative Fintan Cregg effort saw Senan Kilbride beat Savage in the Dublin goal to the punch as he fisted in a lifeline for Roscommon. John Small then blasted over for Dublin

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Allianz National Football League Division One: Dublin 1-13 Roscommon 1-12

AND A SOFT PLACE

Neil Collins and Paul Mannion both lose their footing and go to ground. Picture: Andrew Fox

to leave the score 1-12 to 1-8 going into the last ten minutes.

Back came Roscommon again, Donie Shine’s workrate rewarded with a huge score as his team pressed high and fought bravely for breaking ball.

Cregg and Murtagh added scores either side of a Shane Carthy point for Dublin as the Roscommon resistance continued. They

were even denied a goal for a square ball before Conor Devaney kicked a fine effort from a tight angle. Niall McInerney was imperious at the back and it was he who launched a last-ditch Roscommon attack in search of an equaliser. Niall Daly was hauled down within kicking range and Ciarán Murtagh lined it up as the Roscommon faithful be-

gan to pinch themselves.

It wasn’t to be however, as Murtagh’s free sailed wide. The final whistle ended a palpitating second half as the Dubs held on to maintain their perfect record.

O’Donnell was pleased with the second-half response: “In the second half when we were 0-9 0-3 (down) we were very happy with the fightback.

In the first half we turned over silly ball – that was the difference.”

So Roscommon once again providing ample evidence that they belong alongside the finest company on a day when Down and Cork were relegated and the blue and primrose underdogs booked a semi-final date with Kerry in Croke Park.

Roscommon: D.

O’Malley; S. McDermott, N. Collins, N. McInerney; D. Murray, S. Purcell, D. Keenan; N. Daly (0-1), C. Shine; F. Cregg (0-1, 1 free), N. Kilroy, C. Murtagh (0-5, 2 frees); D. Shine (0-3), S. Kilbride (1-0), C. Cregg. Subs: S. Mullooly for McDermott (black card, 26 minutes), C. Devaney (0-2) for Cregg (black card, halftime), J. McManus for

Keenan (44 minutes), J. McDermott for C. Shine (51 minutes), B. Murtagh for Kilroy (56 minutes), T. Corcoran for D. Shine (64 minutes).

Dublin: M. Savage; K. O’Brien, M. Fitzsimons, D. Daly; E. Lowndes, C. O’Sullivan, D. Byrne, B. Fenton, E. O’Conghaile; T. Brady, D. Rock (1-8, 7 frees), S. B. McCarthy (0-2); P. Mannion, K.

‘Roscommon are going to enjoy the summer’ Gavin: ‘We showed great resilience’ < DAN DOONER

Dublin manager, Jim Gavin, was pleased with his team’s determination during a hard-fought win over Roscommon on Sunday: “I thought the Dublin boys again showed great resilience, great grit in the first quarter and third quarter of the game. At the start of the second half Roscommon went hard at us and got scores on the board but the boys showed great composure and great control to eke out the result.”

As for Roscommon, the Dublin supremo was effusive in his praise: “It was a great game, a real championship cut to it. Roscommon had demonstrated

that they deserve their place in Division One, they earned their semi-final spot and that performance reflects on how strong they have been.

“Roscommon have been very impressive and I said it to Fergal (O’Donnell) coming off the pitch. They are going to have a big say in where the National Football League title goes this year.

“I’ve met a load of their players and I’ve seen them play in Sigerson. I’d also close contact (with them) even in 2012 when we played an All-Ireland U-21 Final against them. They’re a quality side, play a great brand of football and they’re obviously coached well. I think they’re going to enjoy their summer.”

Jim Gavin and Fergal O’Donnell speaking after the full-time whistle. Picture: Andrew Fox

McManamon (0-1), C. McHugh (0-1). Subs: R. McDaid for O’Sullivan (half-time), P. Flynn for Brady (44 minutes), E. O’Gara for McManamon (49 minutes) J. Small (01) for Daly (51 minutes), C. Costello for Mannion (57 minutes), C. Kilkenny for Lowndes (black card 64 minutes).

Referee: D. O’Mahoney (Tipperary).

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Roscommon People Friday 08 April 2016

Mayo rule Connacht with an Irwin fist: Pages 50/51

Murtagh and Harney back to bolster Rossies < DAN DOONER

The Roscommon senior footballers have been boosted by the return of Diarmuid Murtagh and Ultan Harney to action in time for this Sunday’s Allianz National League semi-final against Kerry at Croke Park.

Both players were in action in last Saturday’s U-21 defeat to Mayo in the Eirgrid Connacht Championship final. Murtagh was named Man of the Match as he hit 1-4 while Ultan Harney was industrious and bagged a point.

Joint team manager, Kevin McStay provided an injury update earlier this week: “Ruled out are Enda Smith, Ian Kilbride, Cathal Compton and Cathal McHugh, and we have injury

concerns about Cian Connolly and Conor Daly.

“However on the other hand Diarmuid Murtagh and Ultan Harney are back and available for selection and we have other lads back like Thomas Corcoran and Donie Shine.

I was delighted to see Donie back and scoring three points from play last Sunday and he will be a huge addition to the panel when he is fully fit.”

The return of Murtagh and Harney will come as welcome news to the Rossies as they have endured two bruising encounters on heavy surfaces in as many weeks. Roscommon will now look to bounce back and book their place in the league final this Sunday.

O’Donnell wants Rossies to start better! < DAN DOONER

Roscommon joint manager, Fergal O’Donnell (above), was pleased with his side’s secondhalf fightback against Dublin but highlighted the dangers of starting slowly at this level.

“We turned over silly ball, that was the

difference. The ball was sticking to Paul Mannion inside there and when it went into our lads it wasn’t. I’m not so sure why, but in the second half we settled and I suppose the Dubs did show a difference in class and quality (in the first half).

“We can’t be giving sides like that a start;

the supporters just like against Mayo at halftime I’m sure were saying ‘we’re out of our depth’, but we came back well.

“It’s great to be in a league semi-final, so you’ve got to enjoy these occasions.”

O’Donnell was pleased with the Roscommon support and sympathetic

towards the travelling Dublin fans: “Listen, the atmosphere there near the end was unbelievable. I do feel sorry for the Dublin fans, I saw a lot of them in the Abbey (Hotel) this morning and it is disappointing and a bit unfair on them.”

Speaking about the venue change, O’Donnell

said: “I think the call should have been made earlier but it wasn’t and it’s done now. After the championship the pitch (at Dr. Hyde Park) is going to be done. Let’s not make a big thing about it, but the pitch needs to be done. It’s very unfair on your preparations not to know where you’re playing.”