2016 05 13 by Roscommon People

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

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Galway County Fleadh 2016

13 May 2016

The Local Paper

New politics … in Roscommon at least!

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Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Christina O’Hagan and Naomi Plummer. Picture: Andrew Fox

New politics may or may not be ushered in nationally, but a new political landscape is certainly in place in Roscommon following a dramatic day last Friday. Roscommon has its first Cabinet Minister since 1982, with Independent TD Denis Naughten the new Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources. Fellow Independent Michael Fitzmaurice may be about to leave the Independent Alliance after

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he dramatically decided against voting for Enda Kenny as Taoiseach. In contrast, Minister Naughten is now reunited with the man he fell out with over Roscommon A&E – Enda Kenny. In an interview with Paul Healy on pages 18 & 19, Minister Naughten reveals that during the last Dáil term he was approached to join a number of political parties…the Social Democrats, Renua…and Fianna Fáil! Full coverage inside.

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Active Retirement group’s day trip Active Retirement Association Roscommon Town branch had their first day trip of the season to the medieval city of Kilkenny last week. A guided tour of the city and a visit to the castle, followed by a spot of shopping, ensured an enjoyable visit. An evening meal in Tullamore on the way home ended an enjoyable day. All are looking forward to the next day trip in June.

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Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Aisling McNeill, the new Rose of Roscommon, and Yvonne Donohue-Corrigan, Rose Committee Chairperson. Picture: Andrew Fox

Aisling Rose to the occasion in the Abbey < SEAMUS DUKE

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23-year-old national school teacher Aisling McNeill from Roscommon town was crowned the 2016 Roscommon Rose at the annual Rose Ball which was held in the Abbey Hotel last Saturday night. Over 350 people attended the event and Aisling was chosen from 17 Roses who were put through their paces from compere Fergal d’Arcy of Today FM (formerly of iradio). Aisling is a teacher at the Convent of Mercy Primary School in Roscommon town and is from a wellknown local family. The 2015 Rose, Sarah Murphy from

Castlerea, was on hand to present the new Rose with the tiara and now Aisling McNeill will represent Roscommon in the Rose of Tralee Festival in August. The main sponsors of the Rose Ball are local company Callington Ltd. The escort of the year competition was won by Carlo Morelli, who incidentally was the escort to Aisling McNeill. The Roscommon Rose organising committee are: Yvonne Donohue-Corrigan (Chairperson); Sinead McDermott (Treasurer); Sharon Dowd (Secretary); Sara Teal (Recruitment Officer). The judges were Nuala Cahill, Paul Cuttle and Tricia Corrigan.

My aunt sadly passed away last month. I understand that she left her house to me in her will. I lived with my aunt for five years prior to her death and we were very close. I am concerned that I may face a very large tax bill as the house is worth quite a lot. I am afraid that I may have to sell the house to pay the tax bill but I own no other home so this would leave me homeless. Please advise me, I am very worried. Firstly, may I offer my condolences on the loss of your aunt. As far as tax matters are concerned, based on the information in your letter, you should qualify for a tax relief called dwellinghouse relief. Under Section 86 of the Capital Acquisitions Tax Consolidation Act 2003 provides that gifts or inheritances of a dwellinghouse will be exempt from capital acquisitions tax (inheritance tax or gift tax) provided the following conditions are complied with 1. The recipient must have lived in the house (the subject matter of the inheritance) continuously as his only or main residence for at least 3 years immediately prior to the date of the gift/ inheritance. 2. The recipient must not, at the date of the gift/ inheritance, own nor have an interest in any other dwelling-house. 3. The recipient (if aged under 55 years) must continue to occupy the property as his only or main residence for at least 6 years after receiving the gift/inheritance. If you sell the house and the sale does not meet the conditions outlined above then the relief will be withdrawn. An exception to this is if the property is sold because you need long-term care in a hospital or nursing home or as a result of a condition being imposed by an employer on a recipient to reside elsewhere. There is no relationship requirement when applying for this tax relief. Anyone can leave or will a house or apartment of any value to anyone else free from gift or inheritance tax as long as the relevant conditions are fulfilled. This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS A Homecoming Celebration for Minister Denis Naughten was held in locations around the county on Saturday night. John McDermott (former Hospital Action Committee chairperson), congratulates Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources. Picture: Andrew Fox

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie

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No guarantees that Hyde Park would host Connacht semi-ﬁnal < SEAMUS DUKE

There is no guarantee that any possible Connacht SFC semi-final game between Roscommon and Sligo will be played at Dr. Hyde Park in Roscommon town next month. That’s according to the secretary of the Connacht Council of the GAA John Prenty who was speaking at the launch of the 2016 Connacht Senior Football Championship at the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence in Ballyhaunis on Wednesday. There was huge controversy throughout the FBD League, the National Football League campaign and the Connacht U-21 football championship as several high profile games due to be held at Dr. Hyde Park were moved to other venues because the pitch was unplayable. Roscommon County Board have announced that they are to upgrade the pitch following any possible Connacht semi-final game against Sligo. John Prenty told The Roscom-

mon People on Wednesday that any bad weather in the run-up to the game could that mean it will not be played in Dr. Hyde Park. If Roscommon and Sligo is the fixture, then it is down to be played on Sunday, June 12th. “We hope that the remedial work at Hyde Park will be started as soon as possible,” Mr. Prenty said. “However if we get bad weather the week of any possible game between Roscommon and Sligo, we will have to look at it. It will be up to Croke Park ultimately but it is something that we will have to look at on Monday week after the game between Leitrim and Roscommon. But we cannot be calling off or refixing a championship game at the last minute. “If Roscommon and Sligo is a fixture we will be deciding where it will be played on the 23rd of May. “I felt very sorry for Roscommon all year losing games. It is a huge decision to have to take a big match out of a venue and a town but this is the championship and we have to do the right thing,” he concluded.

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newsbriefs Coffee Morning in aid of Roscommon SPCA The Boyle Credit Union are holding a Coffee Morning in aid of Roscommon SPCA on Friday, May 13th, between 11.30 am to 2.30 pm. Your support will be greatly appreciated.

Summer camp in Ballaghaderreen The 10th annual Irish Language Fun Campa Samharidh (Summer Camp) runs in Ballaghaderreen from July 11th-22nd for ages six to 13 years old, with sport, art and crafts, drama and games through simple everyday Irish. Contact Méabh at 086-3724043 for more information or find them on Facebook at Campa Samhraidh. Limited spaces available and early booking is advised.

Padre Pio Mass Fr. Angelus O’Neill from the Capuchin Friary, Dublin will concelebrate the annual St. Padre Pio Mass in Strokestown Parish Church on Tuesday, 24th of May 2016 at 8 pm. All are welcome.

Roscommon for Life meeting in Castlerea The Roscommon for Life group will hold a meeting on Friday, May 13th, in the Cuan Aire Family Life Centre in St. Patrick’s Street, Castlerea, at 8 pm. All are welcome.

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newsbriefs Roscommon Harriers start series of races A series of running races, organised by Roscommon Harriers Athletics Club, will start tomorrow (Friday, May 13th). Roscommon Race Series 2016 comprises five races, with the distance increasing each time from Friday’s 5 km, an 8 km on May 27th, a 10 km on June 10th, a 13 km on June 24 and a 10-mile event on July 16th. All except the 8 km, which will commence in Mote Park, will start from Hannon’s Hotel in Roscommon town. Entry fee for the 5 km will be €10, while the 8 km, 10 km and 13 km are priced at €15, or €40 for all four races. The 10-mile race will cost €20 if you register before May 3rd (or €25 thereafter). If you register for all five races before the same date, it will cost €55, or €65 thereafter.

Tea Day in Kilbride Western Alzheimers will host a Tea Day in the Cuan Mhuire Centre in Kilbride following Sunday Mass this Sunday (15th of May). All welcome. Please support.

A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

Paul Healy on a great ﬁrst Roscommon Races of the season… and nothing else Monday We’re attending Roscommon Races for the first time in quite a while, accompanied by relatives from London. The predicted heatwave hasn’t quite arrived, but it’s still a lovely evening. Regular readers will recall that I advised several weeks ago – hey, let’s go with ‘about seventy days ago’ – that the weather would improve once a new Government was formed. You will now note that I was right. New Government almost always heralds in great weather (for a while). So, thank you Enda and Shane and co. Danny Healy-Rae’s intervention may also have helped. We make it in just as the second race is about to begin. My English cousin had been talking about the racing press moments earlier. I glance at the racecard and there’s a horse called ‘Full Court Press’ running. A quick browse suggests it might be a contender. We back it on a whim and it wins at seven to one. The war with the bookies has begun with a deadly strike! What a jewel in the Roscommon crown Lenabane is. The racecourse is continuously being enhanced, year on year. It is now a top class facility and remains a wonderful asset to the town. There are a lot of craggy faced men around. Racing diehards. There’s a touch of glamour too of course, though not provided by the craggy faced men. There are glamorous young couples, sharply dressed middle-aged men, stylishly attired ladies of all ages, but the craggy faced slightly older men are a substantial grouping. These craggy faced men are veterans of thousands of race meetings. For some, this is an obsession, almost an addiction. For more of them, it’s a joyous routine – attending race meetings – the satisfaction as much about seeing familiar faces as it is about eyeing up horses and analysing their form. You get a real appreciation of how incredibly important the horseracing industry is in this country; it is remarkable to see such crowds flocking to Roscommon a Monday evening. Some of the bookies seem to be getting younger. Others have been doing it for over half a century. They are all very friendly. One of them congratulates one of our party on taking money off him. We have a few more winners, leading to modest profits. Politicians abound. Newly-appointed Minister Denis Naughten, flanked by Cllr. Domnick Connolly, is chatting to punters. Mayor of

Roscommon People Editor Paul Healy chatting with Minister Denis Naughten at Roscommon Races on Monday (see interview on page 18-19). Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon Paddy Kilduff is all smiles. Deputy Willie Penrose, Senator Terry Leyden and Cllrs. Ivan Connaughton, Michael Creaton and Kathleen Shanagher are amongst many more politicians present. Also in Roscommon is Philip Reynolds, son of the late former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds. Philip’s horse, Go Darsi Go, wins the last race. Roscommon Races is a good news story spelt out over several acres of sod in a venue of never-ending promise. There are smiles all around. Bookies bellowing in a bid to attract the final bets moments before the off. Guinness in plastic glasses. The aroma of fast food. The band setting up. Receipts that failed us fluttering in the breeze. Magnificent horses parade as they prepare for battle. Jeeps and horseboxes. A winding, weaving queue at the tote. Familiar faces. The usual brief verbal exchanges. ‘Well, any winners?’ ‘Are you making money?’ ‘I had two winners.’ ‘Not so bad!’ ‘I’m breaking even.’ ‘The one I backed is still running.’ ‘Have you any tips?’ ‘I was talking to a fellow who said…’

‘Sure it’s an evening out, isn’t it? ‘I hadn’t a bet at all yet!’ Later, there was a great crowd in McCrann’s famous traditional bar, where our English visitors were suitably charmed. An American gentleman at the bar revealed that he is a regular visitor to Ireland. He too was greatly enjoying the craic, and no, not very keen on the prospect of a Donald Trump win. We briefly visited one or two other bars, but gave Declan Nerney a miss. There had been enough excitement for one night.

Rest of week… The continuity announcers on television sometimes say that viewing of a scheduled programme has been deferred because the previous programme over-ran (e.g. with extra-time and penalties in a match, World Snooker, election coverage, etc. – Graham Norton: “We’ve no time for the red chair this week”). Well, I have to inform readers (many of whom will probably be relieved) that the rest of this week’s column has been deferred, due to time constraints. Most of the days of the week will hopefully return next week.

All aboard! Locomotive to visit Roscommon Well-known local businessman, Sean Browne, has informed the Roscommon People that there will be an unusual sight in Roscommon this weekend. A steam locomotive train will be travelling through the county en route to a Croagh Patrick tour. The train is pictured at Roscommon Railway Station in 1986 and will be visiting Knockcroghery, Roscommmon Railway Station and Castlerea this Saturday (May 14th) 30 years on as it prepares for a tour of Cro-

agh Patrick on Sunday (May 15th). This is a wonderful opportunity to see an old world mode of transport on what promises to be a wonderful day of nostalgia. The train will arrive in Knockcroghery at approximately 1.20 pm on Saturday and from there will make its way to Roscommon for just after 1.30 pm. It’s due to arrive in Castlerea shortly thereafter and will also depart Castlerea on Sunday en route to Westport.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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Call for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;properâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ambulance service < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Fianna FĂĄil councillor Paschal Fitzmaurice has called on the new Government put to put in place a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;properâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ambulance service in west

Roscommon. A new ambulance base opened at Loughglynn in February, but it operates only on a part-time basis and is resourced by Roscommon townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s base. Cllr. Fitzmaurice has placed a motion on the

agenda of the next meeting of Roscommon County Council, to be held on May 23, on the issue. It calls on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;new Fine Gael/Independent Government to put a proper 24/7 ambulance service in place at the Lough-

glynn base, including dedicated paramedics, EMT (emergency medical technician) staff and an ambulance, instead of a borrowed ambulance staff from Roscommon townâ&#x20AC;?. He said that this would

ROSCOMMON WEST BUSINESS PARK, GOLF LINKS ROAD, ROSCOMMON TELEPHONE: (090) 6630481 ensure that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the people of west Roscommon have a safe ambulance serviceâ&#x20AC;?. Cllr. Fitzmaurice said that the previous administration, comprising Fine Gael and Labour, had failed to put in place such a service.

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Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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Roscommon Races kick off in style – and sunshine! < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The opening meeting of the year at Roscommon Racecourse was a wonderful success on Monday evening. Held in beautiful weather, there was a great atmosphere generated by the large crowd of up to 3,000 people. A new tote building was recently built and it was open to the patrons, with the old tote building now gone. This was part of the most recent refurbishment work that has taken place at the racecourse, which also includes work on the jockeys’ room. Micheál Finneran, the manager of the racecourse, said that there was a “great buzz around the place” on Monday evening. Preparations are now underway for the next meeting, which will be held on Monday, June 13th, and Tuesday, June 14th.

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Maria McCarthy and Martin Finnerty. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Niamh McNamara and Keith Dolan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Conor Malone, Laura Carney and Daniel Malone. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Cllr. Domnick Connolly, Officer Ray Dunne, Roscommon Civil Defence and Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister of Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Kevin Sexton and Chris Gordon. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister of Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Rosaleen and George McCourt. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Thomasina, Sarah Jessica and Frank Hanly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Seamus Quinn, Angeline McEnroe, Tom McEnroe, Joanne Fayne and Paul McEnroe. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Elaine Healy and Tracy Mannion. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Laura Daly, Majella Tully and Cathy Masterson. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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Murphy: ‘I’ll donate part of gratuity payment to local causes’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Deputy Eugene Murphy has strongly defended receiving a gratuity payment of almost €60,000 after serving as a councillor for more than 30 years. It emerged this week that the Fianna Fáil politician would be granted over €59,000 from Roscommon County Council, of which he was a member from 1985, until he became a TD in February. Deputy Murphy issued a

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staunch defence. He said that councillors were the only sector in the public service who paid a pension levy but did not receive a pension. “It is a significant amount of money, but I am 31 years on the council,” Deputy Murphy, who lives at Scramogue, near Strokestown, said. “It works out at €40 a week for the time and service I gave. “Nearly all my colleagues on Roscommon County Council, out of their allocation each year,

they are giving most of their money back to their local sports clubs and local community. “They don’t get any phone allowance. We don’t get a postage allowance.” He said that he was virtually a full-time councillor throughout his career, working only one day a week as a broadcaster. “Because of my involvement in politics, I couldn’t really take on another job,” Deputy Murphy said. “Over the 30 years – and

I have records for most of this – I have handed back between €60,000 and €70,000 to the local communities.” He said that, of the €59,000 gratuity payment, he would donate at least €12,500 to local causes. “Personally, I have given my life to politics,” Deputy Murphy said. “I probably could have a very successful career in broadcasting or whatever if I wasn’t in politics, so my life is dedicated to politics and will be dedicated to politics.”

Castleplunkett road reopens

Centrepoint Autos launch Car Search app Centrepoint Autos, Athlone are excited to announce the launch of their new Car Search App for mobile devices going live shortly. “We are delighted to be the first car dealership in the midlands to release this latest technology designed to run on mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, etc. allowing direct access to view our stock easily in your pocket or in your living room – just download the app for free from iTunes store or android Google Playstore. “The App will allow customers to start the search at home, where there is no pressure, and the app can answer most of the questions users would normally ask a salesman on site. It provides all the functionality of the desktop site on your mobile and also a faster more efficient way to view full screen colour images of the vehicles while on the go. You can be assured of the most up to date stock as the APP updates daily for any new cars that we have in stock. “Car shopping can be time-consuming and sometimes daunting for many people, but with the right knowledge it can be a fun experience. Our app is an essential tool in removing any stress as it provides easy access to a full range of our cars. “Users can view detailed car specs and see high quality images, filter your search by year, make, model or contact us directly. There is also a link to the centrepointautos.ie website where customers can apply for finance by filling out the easy finance application form online. You can even

share your new dream car to your friends on Facebook! Centrepoint Autos were also delighted to have recently won the All Ireland Best Presented Cars Award for February 2016 by Carsireland.ie, Ireland’s leading car sales website so it’s always good to receive some recognition for all the hard work we put in. Brian Larkin is constantly striving to improve his business and find innovative ways to simplify the car-buying experience for his customers. Visit the website www.centrepointautos.ie , phone 090 6417800 with any enquiries or visit us in Hodson Bay, Athlone.

Brian Larkin, Centrepoint Autos.

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Flooding on the Castleplunkett to Tulsk road (R367) has receded dramatically over the past week and is now passable with care. The road had been flooded since Christmas time. Local councilor Paschal Fitzmaurice has called on

Roscommon County Council to put in place a longterm solution. “The people in the area have suffered over the past four months, with this road flooding,” the Fianna Fáil politician said.

Chamber welcomes Naughten’s appointment Roscommon Chamber of Commerce has congratulated Roscommon town resident Denis Naughten on his appointment as Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources. In a statement, the chamber said that they looked forward to working with him and the new ministers in the Government in putting the case for Roscommon and the county in general. They said that they were hoping that Minister Naughten would ensure

that the National Broadband Plan the National Digital Strategy were implemented. “It is critical for rural Roscommon and the towns and villages of the county that we have a minister who appreciates the importance of the speedy implementation of the plans,” a chamber spokesman said. “Their speedy implementation is as important for Roscommon as the introduction of rural electrification in the 1950s. “Undoubtedly there are

many issues around the ownership and structure of the roll out but these must be got over fast. “Without high speed broadband being available in every part of the country any talk of national digital strategies to bring businesses to rural Ireland and in particular Roscommon is only pie in the sky. “We want our children to be able to set up their businesses in Roscommon. They are as creative and innovative as anyone living in the urban centres

and deserve the option to set up businesses in their home county. “We now have a senior minister with excellent political experience in our constituency who knows and understands the critical importance of high speed broadband to our local economy. “The Chamber wishes Denis every success and looks forward to working with him in improving the environment for businesses and the people generally in Roscommon.”

Another exciting arrival to Athlone Towncentre Hot on the heels of the opening of stores including Starbucks, Tiger and TK Maxx in the recent months, Athlone Towncentre Shopping Centre welcomes its newest arrival, SKECHERS, to the centre this week. The Athlone Towncentre store, which is Skechers’ fourteenth in Ireland, is due to open on Thursday, 12th of May, employing 13 people in its new Athlone base.

Speaking as the opening date was announced, Centre Manager, Shirley Delahunt said “We are excited to welcome Skechers to Athlone Towncentre this week and are confident that it will be a fantastic addition to the centre. To be able to introduce Skechers so soon after the opening of TK Maxx and Starbucks, is yet another vote of confidence in Athlone Towncentre and retail in Athlone as a whole.”

Skechers is renowned for offering shoes that the whole family will love with a wide range of styles to appeal to every age and activity. The Athlone store will offer the full Skechers range and experience including its award-winning performance division, which has a huge variety of performance styles for customers to choose from together with expert in store advice.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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Pictured at Darkness Into Light Roscommon were Aisling Mannion, Fidelma Mannion, Joan Dolan, Eithne Merriman, Kellie Merriman, Erica Feeley, Edel Burgoyne and Bernie Cuddy. Picture: Andrew Fox

Endoscopy Unit to open next month < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The new Endoscopy Unit which is located at Roscommon County Hospital will open on Wednesday, June 1st, according to a briefing document from the Department of Health. Former Fine Gael TD Frank Feighan has welcomed confirmation of the opening date and added that he was delighted to have overseen the construction of this “very welcome facility.” The new facility will open on a phased based over a period of six weeks, as not all of the 19 staff that will work in the ward will be in place immediately. The recruitment of staff, including a clinical nurse manager and 11 staff nurses, is ongoing. There will be eleven nurses, four CSSP operatives, two Clerical Officers, an Assistant Staff Officer and a Clinical Nurse Manager. The new unit will have two procedure rooms, which will facilitate up to 30 endoscopy procedures per day. Construction of the new building, which cost €5.5 million, commenced on the 30th of June, 2014 and was completed late last year. MVS Ltd., Castlebar, Co. Mayo were the construction company and the design team was Rattigan & Company Architects Ltd., Sligo. Construction was completed in late 2015.

Roscommon Show meeting tonight (Thursday) Roscommon Agricultural Show meeting will be held in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon on Thursday, 12th of May at 9.30 pm. to prepare show schedule. Existing committee and new volunteers welcome.

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Josephine Mugan, Denise Lyons and Rachel Feeley at the launch of ‘Matthew’s Tale – The Fairies’ Gift’ by Susan Benedict and Cora Mugan at Roscommon Library recently. Pic: Glynn’s Photography, Castlerea.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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Dineen highlights â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;disturbingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dumping < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Cllr. Nigel Dineen at the scene of illegal dumping in the Ballintubber/Ballymoe area.

In a spate of illegal dumping condemned by a local politician, dead lambs and rubbish were discarded in a drain in the Ballintubber/Ballymoe area earlier this month. Describing the incident as â&#x20AC;&#x153;particularly disturbingâ&#x20AC;?, Independent councillor Nigel Dineen said that such occurences had become more and more prevalent on regional roads in the county recently. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dead lambs or decomposing organic matter are a public health hazrd,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Surface water drains lead to streams and rivers and this water invariably finds its ways to our water reservoirs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Decomposing animals in our water system is the same as actually putting disease into our water supplies.â&#x20AC;? In order to seek a prosecution, council officials normally search rubbish dumped illegally to find a prosecution. In this instance, Cllr. Dineen said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I noted that newspapers in the rubbish were from Foxford in Co. Mayo and shop receipts were from Knock. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would appeal to the public to be vigilant regarding parked cars along the N61 route and others routes and note registration numbers and report any such incidences where there are reasonable grounds for concern to the GardaĂ straight away.â&#x20AC;? He said the not alone was this a serious public health issue, but the safe disposal of this type of organic waste was also a big cost to the taxpayer.

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< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

ers for the Council seat are Pat Towey, a businessman in Ballaghaderreen, and former councillors Gerry Garvey (Kilmore), Liam Callaghan (Tulsk) and Charlie Hopkins (Arigna). Other possible contenders are Strokestown’s John O’Beirne, the former chairperson of the Roscommon branch of the Irish Farmers’ Association, and Mary Keenan, a daughter of former councillor Ernie Keenan.

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A Selection Convention to fill Senator Maura Hopkins’ vacant council seat will be held in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown, on Monday, June 13th, at 8.30 pm. Darragh Kelly, Fine Gael’s Western Area Regional Organiser, said that nominations for the position must be received by Wednesday, June 1st. About 250 Fine Gael members in

the Boyle Municipal District will be eligible to vote at the convention. The district includes a big area of north Roscommon, including Strokestown and Ballaghaderreen. Senator Hopkins was elected as a councillor in the area in the 2014 local elections, but she must now be replaced because an Oireachtas member cannot also be a member of a local council. Among those tipped to be contend-

Dr. Elizabeth Sweeney McSharry

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Fall in unemployment ﬁgures Pictured at a homecoming celebration in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon with Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources, were Michelle Daly, Joe Raftery and Catherine Daly. Picture: Andrew Fox

There was a 5 per cent fall in unemployment in Co. Roscommon last month. According to the Central Statistics Office, the number of people on the Live Register fell from 3,187 in March to 3,022 in April. There was a fall throughout the county:

from 795 to 762 in Boyle, from 976 to 917 in Roscommon town, and from 1,416 to 1,343 in Castlerea. This continues a trend over the past year: in April 2015, there was 3,272 on the Live Register, almost 8 per cent more than last month.

€

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Local Darkness Into Light walks

Pictured at Darkness Into Light Ballygar were Noreen Kennedy, Martina Collins, Michael Coleman and Mary Jo Comer. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Darkness Into Light Roscommon were Florence and Michelle Connor. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Darkness Into Light Roscommon were Hannah Farnan, Ava Dolan, Laura Lane and Emma Mannion. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Pictured at Darkness Into Light Ballygar were Laura Farrell, Cáit O’Brien and Emer Shaughnessy. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Darkness Into Light Ballygar were Mary and Maria Hoey. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Ballaghaderreen Darkness Into Light 5km were John Dempsey and Raymond McGeever. Pic: Mick McCormack

Pictured at Darkness Into Light Ballygar were Niamh Conroy, Mary Doheny and Ann Gately. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Pictured at Darkness Into Light Ballygar were Hannah Comer and Ava Traynor. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Darkness Into Light Roscommon were Margie Mullarkey, Irene Nestor, David Beirne, Anuska O’Grady and Sarah O’Grady. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Darkness Into Light Ballygar were Rose Doyle and Aoife McDonagh. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at Darkness Into Light Roscommon were Casey Keane and Genevieve Harlow. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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Catering for the birds and the bees – in Boyle! < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Boyle Men’s Shed has been providing bird, bat and bee boxes to farmers countrywide recently, under an agri-environment scheme. Glas introduced a scheme whereby farmers would receive a top-up on their payments for hanging 15 bat and bird boxes around their farms. Making such boxes seemed an ideal project for the 45 members of Boyle Men’s Shed, a group where men gather for work on meaningful projects, at their own pace, in their own time and in the company of other men. About ten weeks ago, Martin Connolly, its chairman, placed an advertisement for them on the website DoneDeal.ie. He was inundated with responses and, since then, the group’s members have been kept busy. “We had a couple of farmers coming from as far as Birr down to us,” Mr. Connolly, who lives at Great Meadow in Boyle, said. “We would make the wooden boxes in the shed (beside the courthouse in Boyle) and sell them on to farmers. We are non-profitable, so we did them cheaper than anyone else…to give farmers a bit of a hand. “We made over 200 and sold them to farmers all over the country.” The attractive boxes, which cost €250 for 30,

are designed to attract various species on to farms, as Martin explained. “It’s to attract wildlife back into their areas, including solitary bees. They pollinate eight times more than honeybees, so farmers are trying to get them back into hedgerows for their crops,” he said. “The idea behind attracting more bats is that it keeps insects that they don’t want down.” The income yielded from the boxes has been spent on excursions for Boyle Men’s Shed members, such as fishing and clay pigeon shooting.

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Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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From My Kitchen Table MIRIAM KERINS

It’s raining sceptics down in Da Kingdom! Q

uote of the week came from that eminent Kerry climatologist, historian, newly-elected TD and, what is clearly a God-fearing citizen, Danny Healy Rae when he singlehandedly debunked all those myths about global warming, breaching of the ozone layer and melting of the polar caps, telling us that “God above is in charge of the weather and we here can’t do anything about it.” But who controls you Danny, that’s what I’d like to know pet?

Seriously folks, every village has one; a misguided nincompoop I mean, and, I’m afraid, given last week’s masterclass in absurdity, the poor aul cratur that is Dan the Man appears to be Kilgarvan’s. However, like any good expert, Danny Boy did go on to corroborate his statement, far-fetched though it may be, by citing a period during the 19th century when, apparently, “the sun didn’t shine at all.” And as we all know, fado, fado, there was ne’er sight nor sound of a combustion engine back in those days, adding, (in Danny’s opinion), even further

weight to his theory. Ah sure you’ve got to hand it to him; he’s living proof of what can go wrong when you’re elected into public office, given a soapbox and then tragically, someone goes and withholds your mid-life crisis meds! But hey, why are we surprised? I mean, this is the same gentleman who actually put forward a motion that Gardaí should issue permits to people in the most isolated parts of Ireland allowing them to drive after consuming alcohol….and yet, the good people of Kerry still elected him!

However, I will say that Deputy Dan does have a point regarding his argument surrounding the fact we all pay carbon taxes on our cars and he is quite within his rights to make the pertinent statement that “we have no real account where it is being spent or how it is being spent”. Mind you, his conclusion that he believes “honestly and earnestly that climate change has been happening back in the ages before we were ever industrialised” leads me to wonder if perhaps this belief is born out of the fact that he also suspects that God himself

set him up with a lucrative plant hire firm, complete with a load of diggers to make a trench and protect him and his fellow scientific sceptics from the floods that will surely engulf the non-believers down in The Kingdom! I’d say new Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources Denis Naughten, will have to display a calm but concise authority every time he comes into contact with Deputy Dan in the Dáil bar! In the meantime, where did I put the aul Child of Prague statue?

You’re ‘old new’, Helen! Chat show contributor, Celebrity Big Brother winner, cosmetic surgery lover, and, ahem, the escort formerly known as ‘Wayne Rooney’s hooker’, Helen Wood, is certainly forging a questionable high profile career for herself these days. Wood, who claims to have bumped uglies with the as-of-yetunnamed-A-list-actor in the UK meeja – however, same A lister has been outed in the US meeja (stay with me here, I’ll get to the point) – says that the man ‘made a mistake’ when he cheated on his family and ‘doesn’t deserve’ to be outed. Well, stop talking about it then! Sympathy is giving a cash-strapped punter a discount… revenge is doing the talk show circuit, revealing to the whole world that you used adult toys on him! For God’s sake, there’s an innocent wife and kids listening to your tripe! Look, whether or not I have sympathy for the alleged cheating actor, (I don’t), I have to say I do have a tiny bit of sympathy for a talentless woman whose entire life’s earnings appear to be built on talking about, and cashing in on, celebrities who paid her for illicit sex – and seriously Helen, is that something you really want to include on your CV?

newsbriefs Bealtaine in Ballymoe! Ballymoe ARA (Active Retired Association) hosts the Bealtaine Traditional Irish Festival in Fr. Flanagan Community Centre, Ballymoe on Thursday, May 12th (today) between 12.30-6 pm. All are welcome.

Coffee Morning in aid of Hopspice Roscommon/Mayo Hospice will hold a Coffee Morning at Gleeson’s Townhouse & Restaurant, Roscommon town, on Friday, May 13th, from 11 am to 1.30 pm. It will act as the launch of the National Hospice Sunflower Days, which will take place on June 10th and 11th. All are welcome. If you would like to lend a hand on those dates and support local palliative care services, do come along and enjoy the chat and cuppa with friends. For more information, contact 094-9388666.

Free information, referral service in Glenamaddy Glenamaddy Community Development Co. (GCDC) offers a free information and referral service to anyone in the community who wishes to avail of this easy to access, free, independent, confidential service at GCDC’s offices in Ballyhard, three miles from Glenamaddy town centre on the Creggs Road. Assistance with researching and accessing information, filling forms, etc., is available. If you have needs, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Pop in or telephone GCDC 094-965 9570/9829 (office hours) or email: gcdchelen@gmail.com.

Ardcarne planting demonstrations

Why us Linda…Why us?

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octogenarians were in the headlines last week, including our own Linda Martin…wha? She’s not 80? Really? Only 69? Oookaaay! Well, either way, Linda’s looking fab but doesn’t it seem like she’s been around forever? And for anyone experiencing a wistful, sentimental yearning for those shoulder pad days of yore, Linda, in full-on, cheesy, cruise ship entertainer mode, flanked by gyrating male dancers, and, providing a disco glow stick for everyone in the audience, performed an

up-tempo re-mix of her 1992 Eurovision winning power ballad Why Me on the Late Late. Ya gotta hand it to the pensioner, she’s a trier. Then we had glamourpuss and self-appointed pothole awareness fairy godmother Joan Collins doing her bit to bring important issues to the fore. In true Alexis Carrington style, Dame Joanie posted a series of bizarre pictures of her shapely legs, adorned in fabulous designer shoes, whilst standing beside a large water filled pothole outside her mansion, and, tweeting

them to her local council offices at Westminster; the actress made a strong complaint. Well readers, as our own roads are a metaphor for an obstacle course I suggest the ladies of Roscommon take similar action, but I’d give it a whack in a pair of wellies girls and eschew the stilettos, because remember, if ya fall and trip, a good orthopaedic surgeon doesn’t come cheap; and, besides, while I hate to pick, pick, pick at Inda – Roscommon still has no emergency department!!!

A free Container Planting demonstration will be held in Ardcarne Garden Centre in Boyle on Saturday, May 14th, from 11.30 am to 12.30 pm. An identical event will be held in Ardcarne’s store in Roscommon town on Saturday, May 21st, from 11.30 am to 12.30 pm. By attending, you will discover the secrets to planting a summer container and which plants to use for the best display.

Padre Pio Pilgrimage The Padre Pio Pilgrimage to Holy Cross, Co. Tipperary takes place on Sunday, May 29th. A bus will leave from The Crescent, Boyle at 8 am sharp. Enquiries from Moya on 071- 9662110.

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Housing crisis must be solved – Fitzmaurice < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has said that the housing crisis is the biggest challenge facing the new Government. “Every possible solution, including emergency legislation, will have to be used in order to address this crisis,” he said. “Every single TD in the Dáil is in agreement that the housing crisis must be tackled immediately. “Every possible effort must be made to cut through the red tape and waffle usually associated with building houses around the country. “If we need emergency legislation to be introduced to tackle the problem and to get houses built quickly then let’s do it now. “I am also worried that speculators have bought up land so they can make huge profits when that land is required for housing. “If we need legislation to ensure that the land is bought at a reasonable rate then it should be put in place as well. “The new Minister will have to carry out a root and branch review of his staff around the country to ensure that there are people in place to put an immediate and radical house building plan in place. “We simply cannot allow the current situation to continue and we must have a coherent plan put in place immediately. “This is something that I will be following up vigorously until we see action on the ground all around the country.”

Boost for Psychiatric Unit patients Lecarrow Fund makes presentation < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

The Lecarrow Benevolent Fund has made a presentation of personal care items to the psychiatric unit in Roscommon Hospital for patients’ use.

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It is planned to top these up on a regular basis. “We were asked to help out and were delighted to be able to do so,” said Billy Kelly, Chairperson of the Fund. Pictured at the presentation are Martin Dolan, Donal Murphy (Assistant Director of Nursing, Roscommon Hospital) and Margaret Rudkins, (Clinical Nurse Manager, Roscommon Hospital), Billy and Carol Kelly,

Niall Kelly, Eamon Beegan and Sam Wark. (Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin). Meanwhile, the Lecarrow Benevolent Fund will hold a major fundraising draw on Sunday, June 5th, with ten prizes up for grabs. There will be a Monster Auction on the day, along with the usual family fun, including music and entertainment. Tickets are on sale from members or from Kelly’s or Coffey’s in Lecarrow.

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Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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The Purple Onion wins Just Ask award The Purple Onion Bar & Restaurant, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon has been awarded Just Ask Restaurant of the Month for May. The Purple Onion Bar & Restaurant serves food seven days a week and also hosts an art gallery with a selection of paintings from some of Ireland’s best artists. Good food served is the main draw for the regulars and tourists who visit Paul Dempsey and Pauline Roe’s bar and restaurant. Now in its seventh year, the Just Ask campaign has been wholeheartedly embraced by the restaurant trade.

Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources Denis Naughten, pictured at the official opening of myITdepartment.ie in Tremane. Left to right: Deputy Eugene Murphy, Cathriona Donnellan, Billy Donnellan, Deputy Denis Naughten, Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, Seamus Quinn, Cllr. Domnick Connolly and Adeline McEnroe. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Ten new jobs to be created by Tremane-based company < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

In his first official engagement as a minister, Denis Naughten presided over the official opening of a

‘Roscommon’s favourite local broadband provider’ From

business’s new premises at Tremane, near Athleague, that will result in the creation of ten new jobs. MyITdepartment.ie, a technology services company, were relocating from the Racecourse Road in Roscommon town to the rural location nearby. The company was established in 2003 and moved to Roscommon town four years ago, but a further move, to Tremane, was required because of the success of the company. At present, it employs 18 people, but ten new full-time roles will see the company grow to 28 employees over the next two years.

The new jobs will encompass a range of skillsets, including positions in technical and engineering roles, as well as finance, digital, marketing and sales. Recruitment has begun for four of the jobs. Seven of them will be based at Tremane, while three will be based in Dublin. Seamus Quinn, the company’s Managing Director, said: “We are delighted to be in a position to offer these quality jobs, particularly in rural Ireland. “We have built up a very successful, growing company in the midlands despite a number of challenges, including a lack of high-speed broadband,

which is obviously crucial to our business.” The company has invested significantly in a wireless connection to facilitate business growth and the move to Tremane. “Thanks to the broadband that we have invested in, we can cater for clients right across Ireland, as well as overseas, in the US and the UK, and we are expanding more this year into those international markets,” Mr. Quinn said. It was fitting that Minister Naughten performed the opening because broadband is part of his portfolio as Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources.

He said that the company was a wonderful success story and that “it is all because of access to broadband”. “You couldn’t get more rural than where we are at the moment – green fields all around us, narrow roads up to the premises,” Minister Naughten said. “Who would think you would have an IT company providing back-office services to Upstate New York from here in Tremane? “This company has gone from strength to strength and, hopefully, will continue to grow and develop, and it is just briliant to see it happening here in Co. Roscommon.”

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Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources Denis Naughten, pictured with Billy Donnellan (left) and Seamus Quinn at the official opening of myITdepartment.ie. in Tremane, Roscommon. Picture: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

NewGoverment...NewPolitics?

Naughten appointed to Cabinet after day of drama in Dáil < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

ndependent TD Denis Naughten became County Roscommon’s first senior minister in almost thirty-four years when he became Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources last Friday. Finally, two and a half months after the General Election, the political deadlock was broken that day and a minority government was formed. Led by Fine Gael, it has the backing of just 59 TDs, making the administration numerically the weakest in the history of the State. The Government comprises 50 Fine Gael members and nine Independents. While Deputy Naughten supported Enda Kenny in the vote for Taoiseach, his constituency colleague Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice (Independent Alliance) abstained because agreement could not be reached on a turfcutting issue. Deputy Naughten’s decision to support Mr. Kenny was particularly notable because of the strained relationship between the pair since the former left Fine Gael over Roscommon Hospital five years ago. However, his support of Mr. Kenny was rewarded with a ministry, making him the first Roscommon person to hold such a prestigious role since Seán Doherty served as Minister for Justice from March to December 1982. “I am absolutely delighted to get the brief

that I got,” Minister Naughten said. “It is ideally suited to a minister from the midlands, with ESB, Bord Gáis, Bord na Móna, Coillte…(falling under my remit). “I am relishing the opportunity.” It is the summit of Minister Naughten’s political career to date. The 42-year-old has served as a TD continuously since 1997, sitting as a Fine Gael representative until the hospital crisis in 2011. On that occasion, he voted against the closure of the Accident & Emergency unit and was expelled from the party. Since then, he has served as an Independent TD in the Dáil. Born in Drum, south Roscommon, he lives in Roscommon town with his wife, Mary Tiernan, and their four young children: Liam, Ava, Eoin and Ella. A scientist by professsion, Minister Naughten was a member of Fine Gael’s front bench for many years, as a spokesman for Immigration and Integration; Agriculture and Food; Transport; and Enterprise, Trade and Employment. He had a brief career as a Senator before his Dáil career. He was elected to the Seanad in the by-election on the Agricultural Panel in January 1997 and, at 22, he became the youngest ever member of the House. Minister Naughten has a keen interest in all sports and has played Gaelic football with Clann na nGael GAA Club and has had both county and provincial athletic titles with Moore AC.

Denis Naughten pictured with President Michael D Higgins and Taoiseach Enda Kenny after receiving his seal of office at Áras an Uachtarain. Pic: merrionstreet.ie

Fitzmaurice may quit Independent Alliance < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

eputy Michael Fitzmaurice is considering quitting the Independence Alliance because of their split over the formation of the Government.

Deputy Fitzmaurice broke ranks from his five colleagues in the Independent Alliance – TDs Seán Canney, John Halligan, Finian McGrath, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran and Shane Ross – and abstained on the vote for Taoiseach.

As a result, he would now be the sole member of the alliance in Opposition, a scenario that he accepted was far from ideal. Asked if he would remain in the alliance, he said: “To be honest about it, I don’t know. It is sort

of a bit awkward, to be honest about it.” He said that he had to assess whether he would have adequate speaking time in the Dáil as a member of the alliance. If not, he said that he and other Independents would consider establishing a

technical group in Opposition. Deputy Fitzmaurice insisted that the reason that he refused to support the Government in last Friday’s vote was not because of the issue of ministerial appointments and a rivalry locally with

Deputies Michael Fitzmaurice and Denis Naughten pictured during last year’s Vincent Browne hosted People’s Debate in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Denis Naughten, as has been widely speculated. The Glinsk man was central to the vote for Taoiseach as, at the last minute, he decided not to back Enda Kenny because he said that agreement could not be reached on a turf-cutting issue. He explained: “For many years, I have worked with the Department and the National Parks and Wildlife Service to find an overarching solution to the problems facing turf-cutters right across the country. “A central part of the solution in many areas was the option of relocation and coexistence. To be successful, it was important that domestic turf-cutters who were relocated did not require planning permission as this could slow down the whole process for years, which would be totally unacceptable.” Deputy Fitzmaurice said that he sought a commitment from the incoming government that turf-cutting in these relocated bogs would be exempt from planning permission, but that this was not forthcoming.

“I felt I had to stand by my constituents and turf-cutters throughout the country,” he said. “I could not renege on my principles. I couldn’t let those people down.” Speculation continues to mount, however, that his decision was because of anger at the prospect of Denis Naughten being a senior minister – with Fitzmauurice having to settle (at best) for a junior post. However Deputy Fitzmaurice said: “This wasn’t about a ministry or about money.” He accepted that it was a “ferocious hard call”. In the short-term, Deputy Fitzmaurice will be in Opposition, but he said that that could change over the coming months if Michael Noonan, the Minister for Finance, could resolve the turf-cutting issue. “He said to give him a few months and he would sort it, and that he would talk to me again and get me on board,” said Deputy Fitzmaurice. Deputy Fitzmaurice was actively involved in government negotiations and he said that he had secured many issues into the Programme for Government.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

NewGoverment...NewPolitics? A Homecoming Celebration for Minister Denis Naughten was held in locations around the county on Saturday night. Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources is held aloft by Anthony Flaherty and Eamon Harney. Picture: Andrew Fox

‘This is a huge opportunity for County Roscommon’ INTERVIEW: PAUL HEALY Winner alright…

t the first Roscommon race

meeting of the season on Monday evening, the punters were in great form. It was as if they had been let off a leash…the season had finally begun. In the parade ring stood a political thoroughbred – Denis Naughten. Bred by Fine Gael, trained by a politically astute family (and himself)…and now in the winner’s enclosure. 72 hours after he became Roscommon’s first senior minister in thirtyfour years, Denis Naughten was on home turf, enjoying the great buzz of the races, his every few steps punctuated by stops to accept congratulations on his elevation to high office. Along with Minister Naughten in the parade ring (where the latter was making a presentation) was Cllr. Domnick Connolly. When the formalities had ended, they tried to exit from the confined area and merge in with the crowds. Twice they had to step back to avoid being trod on by horses entering the ring. At the third attempt, they were free – and back in the betting ring. Even wild horses couldn’t stop ‘Team Naughten’ now…!

Back in from the cold

n 2010 Denis Naughten and

Enda Kenny fell out; in 2011 Naughten fell out with Fine Gael. Who could have foreseen the twist this tale has taken? Naughten has produced a political masterclass over the past seventy days or so. Of course he doesn’t describe it as thus, but that’s what it was. It was one thing for Naughten to play such a central role in the painstaking Government formation talks. What was also required – and it was forthcoming – was Enda Kenny’s willingness to shake hands with the friend who became an enemy who has now become a business partner. When we chatted on Tuesday evening, Minister Naughten was just out of a meeting with Taoiseach Kenny and Ministers Coveney and Humphreys. Earlier in the week, the Secretary-General of his wide-ranging Department (Communications, Climate Change & Natural Resources) handed him “an inch-thick” file, a briefing document which the new minister will have as reading material in his hotel bedroom. The new Government’s first formal Cabinet meet-

ing was due to take place on Wednesday (yesterday). His life is about to change. Most weeks, Naughten will stay in Dublin from Monday to Thursday, before returning to Roscommon. The show is on the road. Before the new workload was faced into on Monday, there were celebrations throughout Roscommon as supporters welcomed the new minister home. “It was a great weekend. We celebrated, certainly…I think after seventy days of talks and negotiations there was a sense of relief that we had a government in place. Then the fact that I got appointed to Cabinet…it’s a great personal achievement but it’s also great for my family, my supporters, and, I think, for the constituency. It’s the first time since 1982 that Roscommon has had a Cabinet Minister; it’s a chance now for our voice to be heard.” The talks may have gone on for around 70 days, but Denis says he wasn’t offered a place at the Cabinet table until last Thursday. Five years on from the closure of Roscommon A&E, two of the main characters in that drama stood face to face. There were just two men in the room: Enda

and Denis. They discussed various ministries. Naughten says he didn’t turn down Rural Affairs, but that he did have a frank discussion with Kenny during which the Roscommon man emphasised that it was important that any Independent members of the new Government would have key economic roles. Enda and Denis didn’t discuss Roscommon County Hospital. They didn’t talk about the past. They didn’t ‘mention the war.’ Denis Naughten: “Our relationship is businesslike, it’s as simple as that. We need to work together…it’s not a schoolyard.” 24 hours later, after he had been reelected as Taoiseach (and supported by Naughten), Enda Kenny offered the Roscommon man a senior ministry. Five years in a form of exile had kind of ended. Denis Naughten is still an Independent, and says he will remain so for at least the duration of this Dáil term. But, in unique circumstances, he is in from the cold and – for the first time since 1982 (Sean Doherty) – Roscommon has a voice at the most powerful table in the land.

Now, the ‘H’ word…

lmost 14,000 people gave Denis Naughten their Number 1 vote in the recent General Election. He accepts that a great many of those voters didn’t want to see Enda Kenny back in as Taoiseach, least of all for Denis Naughten to help make it happen. His decision to support Fine Gael and now take a seat in an Enda Kenny-led administration will anger some members of the public. When I ask him about this, and why he didn’t seek specific commitments on emergency services at Roscommon Hospital, Minister Naughten insists that he was up front with voters before the election…and that the decisions he has taken since will benefit the constituency. “I agree that a large number of the people who voted for me wanted a change of Government…but before the election I consistently said that, if re-elected, I would serve as an Independent for the duration of the next Dáil – and I will. Secondly, I said that, if I had the opportunity to be in a position to speak to other parties (about Government formation) I would speak to anybody..,about delivering on my agenda.”

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

NewGoverment...NewPolitics? Minister Naughten says he didn’t seek the re-opening of Roscommon A&E because it’s “unachievable” at the present time. “For A&E to resume in Roscommon, there’s a requirement to employ 10-15 Consultants. Now we have significant challenges in Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe…looking for three or four Consultants. If we couldn’t get them in Portiuncula, down the road from Galway, what chance is there of getting them in Roscommon? It is not possible at the moment to recruit those Consultants for Roscommon. Yes, the new Government could have signed up to A&E restoration, but it wouldn’t have happened…we couldn’t recruit that number of Consultants. Leo (Varadkar, Health Minister at time of recent negotiations) was not prepared to give commitments that could not be fulfilled. “However, I have got about 97% of what I wanted included in the Programme for Government. And included is a very specific reference to a review being conducted of the operation of Medical Assessment Units in hospitals…with a view to expanding hours.” Naughten says his decision to support Kenny and accept a ministry was the right one. “I had a decision to make last Thursday. I had secured a substantial amount of my issues…(during the talks)…the question for me was: Do I rely on Fine Gael to implement those issues under the supervision of Fianna Fáil, or do I take this opportunity? This represented a huge opportunity for me to deliver on my policy platform, it was a huge opportunity for County Roscommon.

“Yes, it did mean me going in and supporting a government (i.e. Fine Gael) that had lost a huge number of seats, but this will be a very different government.” Locally there has been a broad welcome for Naughten’s appointment – while some are not so impressed. Some of the criticism has been conveyed through “online abuse”, Minister Naughten said. “I’m not surprised at the online abuse. When you make a decision like this, you expect it. I took plenty of it in 2011 (around the time of the hospital controversy). So did Frank Feighan. He took more abuse after the A&E closure.”

A future of promise

hatever one’s view of Naughten’s recent approach on the Roscommon Hospital issue, it is surely a very positive thing that this county now has a Government Minister. Denis Naughten has an opportunity now, provided this administration lasts, to achieve much. It is a vast portfolio, with Naughten in charge of a range of semi-state bodies, including Bord na Mona, Bord Gais, ESB and Coillte. Windfarms, fracking, RTE, local radio stations, all come under his remit. Not to mention climate change. Asked to name some priorities, he says his priority is “One: Broadband; Two: Broadband and Three: Broadband!” Minister Naughten wants contracts for the National Broadband Plan to be signed by June of next year. Responsi-

bility for rural roll-out will actually lie with Minister Heather Humphreys. He says every house in Ireland will have high speed broadband by 2022 but that blackspots – “areas with current broadband deficits” – will be creatively addressed much sooner if at all possible. “This broadband plan will transform rural Ireland” he says. A huge priority for Roscommon will be the creation of jobs. He is excited about the challenges ahead. Naturally he hopes that this somewhat unique minority government will last for a few years and he is confident that, with a fair wind, it can do so. He is in government with Fine Gael but he is remaining an Independent. Asked if he might rejoin Fine Gael after this Dáil term, he says it would be irresponsible for any TD to ever rule anything in or out. Who can say what will happen in the future, he muses, adding that “an amazing new party” could be created at some point. He then reveals that, during the last Dáil term, he was approached by a number of parties and groups and invited to join them. Pressed on who they were, he confirms that Renua and the Social Democrats made serious offers, while there was also an approach from Fianna Fáil! “I was asked would I consider running in the election for Fianna Fáil.” (He didn’t give it any thought). He did consider the Renua and the Social Democrats offers – but declined to dance with either of those would-be suitors.

Ciaran Mullooly, RTE Midland Correspondent, pictured speaking with Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources pictured at the Clay Pipe in Knockcroghery. Picture: Andrew Fox

And they’re off!

n a personal level, this is a crowning achievement for Denis Naughten. His late father, Liam, was also a TD, and served as Cathaoirleach of Seanad Eireann. “I know how proud he’d be” Denis says, when I mention his father. His mother, Mary, was “ecstatic” last week and travelled to Dublin to share in her son’s success. Back at Roscommon Races on Monday evening, Minister Naughten only

had time to get one bet on. He lost a few euro on ‘Zig Zag’ in the second race. “You’ve been Zigzagging a lot lately yourself” I say by way of a lame link to the 70-day epic that led to the minority government. “Yes” Minister Naughten replies. “It’s been a rollercoaster of a ride. But we got there. We got a government and if it can implement its programme it can be a good government. Now the work begins.”

An extraordinary twist…and a welcome one COMMENT : PAUL HEALY “I wonder how Frank Feighan feels this week” a friend said to me following the political events of last Friday. I imagine Frank is thinking ‘That’s politics.’ It’s an understatement to say that Feighan bore the brunt of the public’s anger when Fine Gael/Labour reneged on cast-iron pre-election promises and closed down Roscommon A&E in 2011. He has been shown scant loyalty from Taoiseach Enda Kenny since (perhaps Mr. Feighan will be appointed to the Seanad soon by his old friend?). Feighan is out of politics for now – possibly for all time – and there is undoubtedly irony in the fact that his one-time party colleague, Denis Naughten, is now back in favour with Enda Kenny. In fact, five years after an acrimonious divorce from Fine Gael, Denis Naughten is back living under the same roof as Enda! “We have a businesslike relationship” Denis Naughten said this week of the burying of the hatchet between the Taoiseach and the new Communications Minister. Naughten’s elevation has been widely welcomed this week. Locally, the welcome has come from all directions – including from Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy, ex-HAC candidate John McDermott, and Roscommon Chamber of Commerce, whose President, Sean Mahon, spoke of the Chamber’s “delight” at the

appointment. No doubt some within Fine Gael, who parted from Naughten in a toxic atmosphere in 2011, are observing the extraordinary turn of events through gritted teeth. Was Denis Naughten right – or wrong – to help put Enda Kenny back in as Taoiseach? It’s a very fair question. It is also legitimate to ask why Naughten didn’t force Kenny’s hand on Roscommon A&E services – or at least get some specific movement on the hospital – during the recent talks. I asked Minister Naughten those questions this week. His argument is that there is no prospect of Roscommon A&E re-opening in the foreseeable future. I think we can all agree on that. Naughten says staffing is the primary problem (see interview alongside). He accepts that thousands of the people who gave him their number one vote in February didn’t want Enda Kenny back as Taoiseach, but says he took the right decision last week and that it will greatly benefit the constituency. Minister Naughten says he got 97% of his agenda included in the Programme for Government, including a commitment to review the opening hours of Medical Assessment Units, such as the one in Roscommon Hospital. Naughten says that, given his huge influence on the Programme for Government, and the opportunity that arose to be a member of Cabinet, it was the right call to do a

deal with Fine Gael and Kenny. The last Government was unpopular, he agrees, but adds that this one will be very different, not least because of the unique breakdown of Dáil seats. Over the last few years I personally haven’t spared Frank Feighan (not to mention Enda Kenny and James Reilly) on these pages. (I’ve also acknowledged Frank Feighan’s good work in the last Dáil term). In truth, things have moved on. Once the Roscommon public lost its appetite for what I termed the ‘Hospital War’, we had collectively started the process of letting our politicians off the hook. This growing apathy ran parallel with the HAC apparently losing some of its appetite for battle. Now it’s fashionable(!) to say that A&E will never come back, but we helped create that mindset. The politicians loved it, breathed a sigh of relief. Most of the major political players locally – of various persuasions – have gone into recent elections essentially dodging the A&E issue. Now, we are where we are. I agree that there is massive irony in the fact that Denis Naughten is now supporting Enda Kenny, and in fact serving (as an Independent) in an FG-led Government. And Naughten has undoubtedly softened his position on emergency services here over recent months. But then Naughten makes no bones about that, and stoutly argues that staffing is a problem – and that A&E restoration, while desirable, is

a long way off – while insisting that other positive gains can be secured for emergency services in Roscommon. I think that’s what we need to go with. We can judge Denis Naughten’s ministry over time. He can still agitate on Roscommon Hospital and have the public assess his record in so doing. It is better for all of us that he would try and substantially improve the health service here by using his influence from inside Government, as opposed to in his previous capacity as an opposition TD. So Naughten was right to ‘go for it.’ I believe that legitimate misgivings

about the hospital saga are very much superseded by the fact that Roscommon now has a senior Government Minister for the first time since 1982. Minister Naughten’s appointment represents a big opportunity for Roscommon and this constituency. He has a great opportunity now to achieve big things. In any event, we are nearing the end of Enda Kenny’s reign. Another bit of the Hospital War will fade away with his political demise. Either inside Fine Gael in years to come, or outside as an Independent, Denis Naughten is destined to feature in several future Cabinet roles, and that is good for Roscommon.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

NewGoverment...NewPolitics? Naughten: ‘Local health service will improve’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

inister Denis

Naughten has said that, because of his presence in Cabinet, a number of improvements will be made to health services in the constituency. He said that the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) at Roscommon Hospital would be expanded, the ambulance

service would be improved and the emergency department at Portiuncula Hospital would also be a priority. “I needed to see specific issues addressed as part of the Programme for Government for me,” he said, adding that the MAU was a red-line issue. “I want to see the services expanded and developed there.” At present, the MAU is open from 9 am to 5 pm five days

a week. Minister Naughten said: “Within six months, there will be a report on the Minister’s desk on how services can be expanded, not just in Roscommon’s Medical Assessment Unit, but in other medical assessment units countrywide. “The have huge potential to take pressure off existing A&E departments.” Currently, one air ambulance, based at Custume Barracks

in Athlone, serves the entire country and it operates only during daylight hours. Minister Naughten said that expanding the hours of operation was one of the issues specifically referenced in the Programme for Government. It said that it was also intended that a section air ambulance would be introduced “for the second part of the country, which would take pressure off our one”.

He added: “There is specific provision in relation to all of those issues.” Another red-line issue for him was Loughglynn ambulance base, which was opened in February, but not on a 24/7 basis. Minister Minister said that there was no specific reference to the base in the Programme for Government, but that the outcome of a review of the ambulance service,

undertaken by Lightfoot Solution, was due shortly. “My understanding is there is nothing within the Lightfoot Report that would cause us any difficulty in providing an additional resource,” he said. “What I mean by that is a permanent ambulance in Loughglynn. “I will be taking that up directly with the HSE as soon as that report has been approved by Government.”

Fianna Fáil’s Murphy welcomes appointment < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

A Homecoming Celebration for Minister Denis Naughten was held in locations around the county on Saturday night. Pictured in Hannon’s Hotel with Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources were Mary Tiernan, Mary Naughten and Áine Naughten. Picture: Andrew Fox

Naughten condemns ‘vicious’ online abuse < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

inister Denis Naughten

has expressed extreme disappointment at the “vicious” abuse he has received online since deciding to support the Fine Gael-led Government last Friday. The Independent TD left the party over the closure of the Accident & Emergency Unit at Roscommon Hospital in 2011, but last week supported Taoiseach Enda Kenny, whose administration oversaw that decision. Taoiseach Kenny subsequently appointed Mr. Naughten as the Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources. Minister Naughten has been the subject of some strong criticism on social media. One of the messages on his Facebook account, says: “I remember when Enda Kenny stabbed you in the back over A&E not long ago. You know how the people feel that voted for you are feeling. Hope you found wealth is worth selling out for.” Minister Naughten said that such sentiments were “upsetting” and “disappointing” and resembled anger he was subjected to five years ago.

“I am lucky enough that my kids are young enough that they are not going online, but I know that it is upsetting for some people that are reading some of the viciousness that’s there,” Minister Naughten said. “But when you put your head above the parapet in politics, you are always going to have that. “The only thing I ask people to do is give me a chance. That’s all I am looking for – an opportunity. “Some of the same level of anger was directed at me back four years and 11 months ago before the decision on Roscommon Hospital, some of it very nasty as well, and a lot of those people felt very embarrassed at the end of the process when I made my views be known.” He predicted that similar reversals will become apparent on this occasion. “I think some of the people, if I and this Government are given the opportunity to deliver, will be disappointed with their own actions to date,” Minister Naughten said. There has been speculation that his support for the Government is a precursor to a return to Fine Gael, but he denied that. “Before the General Election, I gave a commitment to the people of

Co. Roscommon and east Galway that, if elected, I would remain as an Independent TD for this term in the Dáil,” Minister Naughten said. “I reiterate that commitment again, and that will not change.” He also gave a commitment before the election that, after it, he would engage in government negotiations with all sides. He decided to support the new administration because the vast majority of issues were addressed, he said. “I got about 97 per cent of what I wanted into the programme for government,” Minister Naughten said. “Right across the board, I got significant commitments written into the programme for government. “I can safely say, without hesitation, there is not a TD in Leinster House that has got more into the programme for government than myself. “Would I have been happy with that before the election? I would have been absolutely thrilled to achieve what I’ve achieved to date, and I have been given the opportunity to actually drive the implementation of that.” He said that he had an opportunity to serve in government and “drive change”, and that he felt it would irresponsible to turn that down.

ianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy has said that having a minister from Co. Roscommon will be a major bonus to the area. Independent TD Denis Naughten was appointed Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources, becoming the first politician from Roscommon to serve in a Government Cabinet since the late Seán Doherty in 1982. “I think any county or constituency having a minister, there is no doubt about it, it is a plus,” Deputy Murphy said. “I wish Denis well. We both know, as does Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice, what the issues are. We were very much elected on recognising and acknowledging the problems that are out there that need to be tackled.” The Fine Gael/Independent Government was facilitated by Fianna Fáil, who abstained on the vote for Taoiseach because they had “serious input on the programme for government”, Deputy Murphy said.

“If you look at the Fianna Fáil manifesto, particularly in relation to broadband, flood issues and Garda stations, a number of them are included,” he said. “The Independent/Fine Gael Government are going to take that on board, and I will be working with Minister Naughten to try to get more balance into places like Roscommon-Galway.” Deputy Murphy, a first-time TD, accepted that it was a “frightening time” waiting to see whether a government would be formed. Now a relieved man, given another General Election has been averted, he said that he was confident the minority Government could work. “I think there will be a far greater input from the Opposition than there has been heretofore,” Deputy Murphy said. “I think it’s the way to go. “There is now a greater chance for all people in Opposition to bring their issues to the floor of the House and, where feasible and where practical, get that legislation through or whatever. I am looking forward to it.”

‘No risk to South Roscommon now’ < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

he proposal to move a vast swath of south Roscommon into Co. Westmeath has been scrapped, Minister Denis Naughten has said. A review is currently ongoing of the Athlone boundary issue, which

could see 38 sq km of the county lost. But Minister Naughten said that it was a condition of his support for the new Government that the review would not be implemented. “I can assure you that, because of my role in Cabinet, that this report is dead. It will not see the light of

day. This proposal is dead in the water,” he said. He noted that all three TDs in the RoscommonGalway constituency – Michael Fitzmaurice (Independent) and Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fáil) being the others – were committed to ensuring the county boundary remained intact.

A Homecoming Celebration for Minister Denis Naughten was held in locations around the county on Saturday night. Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources pictured with Cllr. Domnick Connolly and Cllr. John Naughten at the Athlone Springs Hotel. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

NewsPeople

Praise for initiative which tackles bullying in the school Cornafulla NS, who participated in the OK Kids Anti-Bullying Pilot Programme, supported by Roscommon Co. Council. In picture are: Cllrs. Paddy Kilduff, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Council, Valerie Beirne, John Naughten, Ivan Connaughton, John Cummins, Joe Murphy, Orla Leyden; Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council; Monica Monahan, co-ordinator, Supt. Fran Nicholson, Fr. Ray Milton and Michelle Cox, Roscommon Co. Council pictured with Charlie, Tommy and Orla Smith, Lisa Rooney and Sean Mahon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

St. Mary’s NS, Knockcroghery, who participated in the OK Kids Anti-Bullying Pilot Programme, supported by Roscommon Co. Council. In picture are: Cllrs. Paddy Kilduff, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Council, Valerie Beirne, Kathleen Shanagher, John Naughten, Ivan Connaughton, John Cummins, Joe Murphy, Orla Leyden; Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council; Monica Monahan, co-ordinator, Supt. Fran Nicholson, Fr. Ray Milton pictured with Andrew Hayes, Gerard Mullin, Shane Gately, Niamh Fitzgerald, Laura Finan, Kayla Bruton, Madeline Thomas, Sofea Rahmat, Karol Feerick, Caroline Tully and Ciara Dempsey. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin Ballymurray NS, who participated in the OK Kids Anti-Bullying Pilot Programme, supported by Roscommon Co. Council. In picture are: Cllrs. Paddy Kilduff, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Council, Valerie Beirne, John Naughten, Kathleen Shanagher, Ivan Connaughton, John Cummins, Joe Murphy, Orla Leyden; Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council; Monica Monahan, co-ordinator, Supt. Fran Nicholson, Fr. Ray Milton and Michelle Cox, Roscommon Co Council, pictured with: Rose Appleby, Anna Campbell, Ciara Carr, Hannah Murray, Michelle Rogers, Leo Gately, Kevin Beirne, Sarah Duggan, Juliette and Tom Gately. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin Clonown NS, who participated in the OK Kids Anti-Bullying Pilot Programme, supported by Roscommon Co. Council. In picture are: Cllrs. Paddy Kilduff, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Council, Valerie Beirne, Kathleen Shanagher, John Naughten, Ivan Connaughton, John Cummins, Joe Murphy, Orla Leyden; Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council; Monica Monahan, Co-ordinator, Supt. Fran Nicholson, Fr. Ray Milton, pictured with Fiona O’Neill, Rachel Dunning, Theresa Farrell, Roisín O’Brien, Deirdre O’Brien, Sinead Kenny and Patricia Farrell. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

< EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

National schools at Clonown, Cornafulla, Knockcroghery and Ballymurray recently participated in an antibullying initiative called Roscommon OK Kids Anti-Bullying Pilot Programme. The schools were given plaques by Cllr. Paddy Kilduff, the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, at a function in Áras an Chontae last week. The council funded the pilot programme to the tune of €15,000. Monica Monahan, of the Anti-Bullying Institute, oversaw the programme. Speaking at last week’s function, she said: “Thank you to Roscommon County Council for leading the way and being the first council in the country to support an initiative like this.” Cllr. Kilduff noted that, according to the World Health Organisation, bullying carries a “significant risk to health”. “Students involved in bullying are at a significant risk of running away from home, alcohol and drug abuse, absenteeism and self-inflicted or accidental injuries,” he added. He said that the OK Kids Programme was a wholeschool, community approach to addressing and resolving bullying issues and promoting an anti-bullying culture. “It is an impressive collection of straightforward steps that cover the whole range of issues surrounding bullying,” Cllr. Kilduff said. “It raises awareness for students, parents and teachers. The programme is underpinned by gathering real data about where the issues are, and the school can use the statistics report to plan its anti-bullying policy. “Teachers and principals are given practical, simple modules. The school policy is adjusted to make everything from investigating to reporting and handling incidents of bullying completely transparent and easy to implement.” Cllr. Kilduff said that the focus of the programme was on creating a caring school that was a safe place for every student. “Everyone wins with this programme; no one loses,” he added.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

PropertyPeople ●

PROPERTY SALES ● LETTINGS ● VALUATIONS Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel. (090) 6663700. Mob. (086) 8985013. www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

FINAL OFFERS BY 5PM FRIDAY 20th MAY

NEW TO THE MARKET

VALUATIONS

Bushfield, Castleplunkett, Co. Roscommon

Riverside Avenue, Circular Road, Roscommon Town

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

Glenmore, Taughmaconnell, Co. Roscommon

If you need a Property Valuation, we can do it!

• Prime four bedroom residence

• 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 Final offers after €200,000 by 5pm Friday 20th May

• Within walking distance of all amenities • Attractive four bedroom bungalow

• Large outbuilding to rear c. 550 sq.ft

• Standing on c. 0.55 acre mature corner site

• Price Region: €130,000

• In excellent condition throughout

• All offers invited for immediate sale

• Detached garage to rear

• Viewing by appointment

• Viewing highly recommended

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

LANDS TO LET • Circa 18 acres at Dysart, Roscommon • Circa 32 acres at Scrine, Rahara, Roscommon • Circa 55 acres at Glinsk, Co. Galway ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

URGENTLY REQUIRED ENTITLEMENTS FOR LEASE FOR DISAPPOINTED CLIENTS ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

16th Annual Machinery Auction Pat Hughes & Company are holding there 16th Annual Machinery Auction 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

Items already entered are:Massey Ferguson 5525 ’08 1400hrs, Zetor 6211, Zetor 6718, Universal, Ford 4000, International 885, Major Topper as new, Manure Spreader 1 ½ Tonne Amazon with cover, Tipping Trailer, Low Loader, Krone Round Baler, John Deere Round Baler – Belt Driven, Hay Turners, Rotary Mower, Bale Splitter, Ploughs, Power Harrow, Cattle Trailers, Muck Spreader, Land Rollers, Potato Digger, Drill Plough, Chain Harrow, Tipping Trailers, Car Trailers, Cattle Trailers and numerous other items. OUTSIDE LOTS ARE STILL BEING TAKEN.

THINKING OF SELLING?

SOLICITOR FOR THE CARRIAGE OF SALE: TERRY O’KEEFFE TEL: 090-6626239

• Price Region: €120,000

For further details and brochure call Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700

• Circa 35 acres at Runnabracken, Roscommon

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

• Standing on large site c. 0.35 acres

• Luxury four bedroom bungalow c. 2,500 sq.ft

To arrange a viewing call Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700

If you are thinking of selling, call us today for a FREE VALUATION

To arrange a viewing call Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700

NO SALE NO FEE CALL 090-6663700 TODAY

Property and land across the county at Hughes & Co This week Pat Hughes & Co have confirmed that they have for sale at Racecourse Road, Roscommon a block of 4 x 1 bedroomed apartments finished to a high standard and fully let generating an annual rental income of €15,500. The building is located within walking distance of Roscommon town centre. Viewing is a must, tenant will not be affected. To arrange an appointment to view please contact the office on 090 6627003 or email phughes2@eircom.net Hughes & Company also have for sale at Main Street, Lanesboro a commercial unit currently laid out for a salon.The property has the benefit of a large rear garden which would leave if suitable for conversion into off street parking if required. The company have for sale at Carrowmoney, Rahara approximately 60 acres of

top quality agricultural land located in one main block with excellent road frontage. The lands are located less than 3 miles from the village of Knockcroghery with excellent views of the surrounding countryside lending the land suitable for development subject to planning permission being granted. Hughes & Company are also offering for sale at Sheehaun, Kilrooskey approximately 3 ½ acres of top quality agricultural land with excellent road frontage suitable for development subject to planning permission being granted.The lands are located within one mile of the local school. Pat is accepting the first off of €20,000 for these lands. At Morganstown, Athleague, Hughes & Company are accepting final offers on approximately 53 acres of land which is located less than 1 mile form the village

of Athleague. The lands have the benefit of out offices, sand arena and excellent road frontage. Pat Hughes urgently requires all types of property in and around the Roscommon area for disappointed under bidders. For further details please contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom. net.

Greenmount House for €100,000 at Hughes and Co At Stonepark, Roscommon, Pat has confirmed that they have a lot of interest in ‘Greenmount House’, a large 2 Storey 4 Bedroomed Detached Residence on approximately ½ acre site located just off the main Galway to Roscommon road. The residence, while it needs some modernisation is structurally sound and located in a very prominent location. Offers in excess of €100,000 are being considered.

Landmark AIB building still available Pat Hughes & Company are still accepting offers for the old AIB Bank which is currently laid out into offices and was recently used during this years Lamb Festival. The property is located in a prominent location in Roscommon town. Pat is accepting every offer in excess of €250,000 for this fine property. For further details please contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom. net.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

PropertyPeople

All offers after €80,000 for prime Castlecoote property John Earley FIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon is this week inviting all offers after €80,000 for a highly attractive 3 bedroomed detached bungalow residence of approximately 1,600 square feet standing on 1 acre located at Aghagower, Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon. John described the property as “A highly attractive three bedroomed bungalow residence lo-

cated in a much sought after residential location close to the award winning village of Castle-

coote and adjacent to the Fuerty GAA grounds. The residence possesses many fine decorative features

such as a vaulted ceiling in the sitting room, and a feature brick faced wall to both the sitting room and kitchen/dining room with dual archways servicing. “With spacious living accommodation throughout the property briefly comprising of reception/hallway, sitting room, kitchen/ dining room, rear hallway, cloakroom, utility/store room, three bedrooms and family bathroom. “Overall, this is a quality

property to come available in a select location and the auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and offers after €80,000 to sell.” To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 6626579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

Oldwood Showhouse Day on the 28th of May Property Partners Earley are delighted to announce the launch of the Oldwood development located just off the Athlone road, Roscommon with a showhouse day on Saturday the 28th of May from 12 – 2 pm. On offer are luxury bungalows and semi-detached 3 bedroomed properties. On the day, two fully finished and furnished luxury houses will be available to view. John Earley said: “We are delighted to launch this exclusive development in stunning surrounds which is one of the 1st developments to achieve an A – rated energy efficiency in every home. Oldwood creates energy savings of as much as 60% per year. While Oldwood’s location is important, what sets it apart is the

attention to detail throughout every facet of its design and build. Each property is finished with a luxurious and stylish finish, with sleek fitted kitchens, elegant bathrooms, high efficiency Panasonic Heat Source Pump Air to Water heating systems, triple glazed uPVC windows and a warming log burner for the lounge area. We now invite all enquiries and welcome viewers to our open day on Saturday the 28th May from 12 - 2pm on site. There is a lot to love and we invite you to step inside and see for yourself.” For further details, please contact John Earley FIPAV or David Diffley MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

Prime Donamon lands new to the market at Earley’s John Earley FIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon is this week offering new to the market lands containing approximately 11.399 acres in total located at Aughnagree, Donamon, Co. Roscommon. Price Guide: €40,000 ono to sell. John described the lands as “A prime roadside parcel of lands located in a select farming district close to Donamon and Oran. This sale must be of interest to local farmers wishing to increase their existing holdings and the auctioneers now invite viewings and all offers for immediate sale.” To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley FIPAV, Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 6626579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon. Tel. 090 66 26579. Fax: 090 66 25405

www.propertypartners.ie NEW TO THE MARKET

NEW TO THE MARKET

A SUBSTANTIAL RETAIL/WAREHOUSE OUTLET OF C. 8,000 SQ.FT STANDING ON C.1.7 ACRES OF PRIME COMMERCIAL LANDS HOLDING POTENTIAL LOCATED AT

A PRIME FARM CONTAINING C. 76 ACRES OF LANDS WITH MODERN FARMYARD AND BOGLANDS LOCATED AT CLOONADARRAGH,

ARDNANAGH, ABBEYTOWN, ROSCOMMON TOWN, (GALWAY ROUTE), CO. ROSCOMMON

BALLYMOE, CO GALWAY (CONVENIENT TO BALLYMOE VILLAGE)

NEW TO THE MARKET

A PRIME HOLDING OF QUALITY LANDS CONTAINING C. 49.65 ACRES SET OUT IN 3 LOTS ON WHICH STANDS A FINE 3 B/R DETACHED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF C. 1,350 SQ.FT TOGETHER WITH FARMYARD LOCATED AT

NEW TO THE MARKET A PRIME QUALITY FARM OF C. 23.59 ACRES LOCATED AT

RATHBRENNAN, ROSCOMMON (only c. 4.5 km from Roscommon town)

BALLAGH AND TURLAGH, RAHARA, CO. ROSCOMMON (also boglands of c. 1.89 acres located at Cloonlarge, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon)

(Adjacent to Roscommon Train Station) (zoned local/neighbourhood centre (LC/NC) under the Roscommon LAP 2016-2020)

A highly attractive and substantial commercial property which offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to acquire one of Roscommon towns most self-advertising locations. The said warehouse commands an overall area of c. 8,000 sq.ft in total, set out over 2 floors which accommodates showrooms, stores, warehousing, offices and bathroom facilities. A large carpark services the said property to the front and side and same stands on a prime site area of c. 1.7 acres in total holding huge potential for further development in the existing trade and also for various alternative uses due to location. Rarely does such a primely located and established property such as this come on the market and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and offers to sell. Note: The said buildings and lands can be sold independently should market interest dictate. Viewing by appointment only with the sole selling agents. BER: D1. LEGAL: MAHON SWEENEY & CO, MAIN ST, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON. 090 66 27350.

EMAIL: jearley@propertypartners.ie

The said property which is located just off the Castlerea road from Ballymoe village offers c. 47 acres of quality agricultural lands together with modern style farm yard incorporating 3 bay machinery shed and 4 bay single slatted shed and dry stock shed. Yard area with cattle crush and pen. The lands have the benefit of bordering the River Suck and incorporate c. 29 acres of boglands. Option to purchase modern style 3 bed bungalow residence standing on a site area of c. 2 acres if desired. Passing with the said sale are entitlements and greening payments to the value of c. €4,000 per annum. The sale of this said property, offers all would be purchasers a prime opportunity to acquire a farm in the Ballymoe area, a renowned farming district. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. Lands and boglands can be sold independently should market interest dictate. LEGAL: MARY MULLARKEY, BARRACK STREET, CASTLEREA, CO ROSCOMMON. TEL: 094 96 25420

Being the estate of the late James Murray deceased. A quality holding of free draining limestone lands located in a renowned farming district just off the main Roscommon to Athlone route. The said holding has the benefit of a fine 3 B/R residence together with farmyard standing thereon. Passing with the said sale are entitlements and greening payments to the value of c. €4,000 per annum The said property can be sold in one or more lots as set out below should market interest dictate: Lot 1: The entire. Lot 2: Fine 3 B/R residence of c. 1,350 sq.ft standing on c. 0.48 of an acre. Lot 3: c.11.94 acres of lands together with farmyard located thereon. Lot4: 9.5 acres of lands. Lot 5: c. 27.73 acres of lands. Lot 6: c. 1.89 acres of boglands located at Cloonlarge, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. Note the said house and lands can be sold independently should market interest dictate. BER Residence: D1. LEGAL: BRIAN O’BRIEN, MESSERS BYRNE CAROLAN & CUNNINGHAM SOLICITORS, ATHLONE. 090 6478433.

A prime roadside farm located in a regarded farming area, all in permanent pasture with farmyard, servicing including storage sheds and a 3 bay hayshed. A 2 B/R bungalow residence is in need of restoration and offers c. 900 sq.ft in total. Note the said house and lands can be sold independently should market interest dictate and the auctioneers now invite viewings and offers to sell. BER: G. LEGAL: TERRY O’KEEFFE, MESSERS TJC O’KEEFFE & CO, ROSCOMMON. 090 66 26239

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

FarmingPeople Castlerea Co-operative Livestock Mart Ltd.

(Serving Farmers for over 56 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

TELEPHONE: 094 9620300

Bullocks, Heifers & Dry Cows

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

Each Friday – 11 a.m. ---------------

PROPERTY SERVICES PROVIDERS LICENCE NO. 002249 THURSDAY 12TH MAY:

Weanling & Suckler Cows Every Tuesday at 5p.m. ----------Friday, May 13th at 11 a.m.

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 A.M. ALL STOCK PRE BOOKED. YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. 3 RINGS IN OPERATION.

Bealtaine Special Sale of Heifers Also

Special Sale of 4 & 5 Star Breeding Heifers Also Bullocks and Dry Cows ----------------Friday, May 13th at 7p.m.

SATURDAY 14TH MAY:

HORSE SALE

17 Pedigree Simmental Bulls & 73 Simmental X Heifers

MONDAY 16TH MAY:

BULLOCK SALE

----------Saturday, May 21st

FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

Keep your farm safe

SLATTED OR DRY SHED REQUIRED Preferably with land MUST HAVE ACCESSIBILITY FOR TRUCK Contact: 087 2541720

Serving Farmers since 1985

THINKING OF FORESTRY:

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

Colm Freyne BSc (Forestry)

Galway/Roscommon Ph: 087-6606043

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

Tel: 094 9542668 www.westernforestry.com

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

TOM ROGERS

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

Purebred Limousin Sale 90 Males & 15 Females ---------Friday, May 27th at 11a.m. Pictured enjoying the South Roscommon Vintage Club Charity Road Run were Peadar Coyle, Michael Kelly and Michael McGlynn. Picture: Andrew Fox

Lambs, Cast Ewes & Ewes with Lambs at foot

Roscommon Mart Report Friday, May 6th: There was a good entry of top quality stock on offer at last Friday’s sale. The good weather brought with it a cracking trade for bullocks with excellent prices, plenty of customers and a near full clearance of lots. Average prices for bullocks ranged from €2.50 per kilo up to €3.11 per kilo. There was firm trade for heifers with prices similar to last week with averages of €2.41 per kilo up to €2.91 per kilo. There was also a good entry of dry cows with prices ranging from €1.71 per kilo up to €1.89 per kilo. Sale as usual Friday (May 13th) with 31 pens of heifers on offer, also bullocks and dry cows. All stock must be penned by 10.30 am. Cattle not penned by this time will not be included in the draw. Friday, May 13th Sale of 4 and 5 star heifers – please contact the office for details. Dry cows made from €805 to €1365 per head. Sample prices: Lim X 725 kgs €1365, Simm X 750 kgs €1340, Lim 740 kgs €1335, Char x 750 kgs €1335, Lim X 680 kgs €1200, HE 635 kgs €1055, AAX 585 kgs €1000, SAX 620 kgs €1100. Heifers made from €465 to €790 over. Sample prices: Char X 520 kgs €1310, Lim X 555 kgs €1310, Lim X 490 kgs €1205, 2 Char x 472 kgs €1200,BBX 440 kgs €1160, 3 Char X 415 kgs €1125, Lim X 470 kgs €1110, Char X 380 kgs €1105, Simm X 390 kgs €965, Char X 350 kgs €950, BBX 410 kgs €1090. Bullocks made from €425 to €1110 over. Sample prices: Lim X 820 kgs €1750, BBX 615 kgs €1725, Char X 600 kgs €1675, Lim X 630 kgs €1625, AAX 620 kgs €1475, Lim X 575 kgs €1540, Char X 520 kgs €1450, 4 Char X 511 kgs €1370, Lim X 490 kgs €1280, 4 Char X 407 kgs €1235, Lim X 460 kgs €1270, AAX 490 kgs €1190, AAX 605 kgs €1300, 2 Simm X 358 kgs €960, Simm X 540 kgs €1240, 2 HEX 488 kgs €1080, 2 Char X 453 kgs €1220, Lim X 420 kgs €1135. Tuesday, 10th May: There was a large entry of excellent quality weanlings on offer at last Tuesday’s sale. There was a lively trade for weanling heifers with prices averaging from €2.67 up to €3.47 per kilo. There was also a brisk trade for bull weanlings with prices averaging from €2.57 per kilo up to €3.46 per kilo. There was good attendance of both exporters and farmers resulting in a high

Special Sale of Bullocks and Heifers Bookings accepted Tues. 17th, Wed 18th, Thurs 19th. ---------

clearance of lots. Cows with calves at foot made up to €1680. Sale of weanlings and suckler cows and cows with calves at foot as usual Tuesday next (May 17th) at 5 pm. Weanling heifers made from €295 to €875 over. Sample prices: BB X 400 kgs €1275, Char X 445 kgs €1230, BB X 375 kgs €1190, Char X 355 kgs €1110, Lim X 380 kgs €1030, Char X 330 kgs €990, Lim X 370 kgs €1000, BB X 430 kgs €985, Lm X 355 kgs €985, 2 AAX 365 €955, Char X 310 €945, BBX 280 kgs €880,Char X 320kgs 880, Lm X 245 kgs €760, 2 Lm X 210 kgs €730. Weanling bulls made from €305 to €775 over. Sample prices: Char X 480 kgs €1255, Char X 505 kgs €1230, BB X 415 kgs €1150, 2 Lim X 400 kgs €1100, Char X 355 kgs €1030, Char X 335 kgs €1030, Lm X 345 kgs €1025, Char X 335kgs €990, Lm X 330kgs €960, BAX 330 kgs €925, Char X 315kgs €900, Ch 330 kgs €900, Char X 280 kgs €875, Lm 275 kgs €860, Lm X 280 kgs €850, Char X 285kgs €825, Char X 225 kgs €780, Lm X 220 kgs €755. Cows and calves at foot made from €1500 to €1680. Sheep sale, Wednesday May 11th: There was a good entry of sheep on offer at Wednesday‘s sale. The price for spring lambs was on a par with the previous week. There was a small number of hoggets on offer with a pen of ewe hoggets making €145. The trade for cast ewes was a little better this week with a top price of €120. There were smaller numbers of ewes with lambs at foot presented for sale. Ewes with 2 lambs at foot made up to €230, while ewes with single lambs at foot made up to €170. Sales continue each Wednesdays at 11 am for lambs, cast ewes and ewes with lambs at foot. Sample prices - Spring lambs: 49.30 kgs €125, 52.1 kgs €123, 45.9kgs €120, 45kgs, €117, 50 kgs €120, 51 kgs €118, 43.7 kgs €116, 44.9 kgs €115, 44 kgs €117, 41.30 kgs €105. Ewe hoggets: 52.20 kgs €145, 54 kgs €120, 64 kgs €120. Mixed hoggets: 49.40 kgs €100. Cast ewes made from €70 to €120 per lot. Ewes with twin lambs at foot made up to €230 per unit. Ewes with single lambs at foot made up to €170 per unit.

Each Wednesday – 11 a.m.

ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

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Castlerea Mart Report Sale on Thursday, May 5th: 850 cattle were on offer at the sale and trade was maintained for the quality lots presented for sale. There was an improved trade of heifers and heifer weanlings this week, with extra grass buyers in attendance, while breeding stock and weanling bulls also reported good clearances. Suck calves remained a strong trade while the first dairy clearance sale reported a 100 per cent clearance. Sample prices: Heifers: Ch 425kgs – €1,130; Lim 425kgs – €1,205; Ch 390kgs – €1,115; Lim 440kgs – €1275; AA 480kgs – €1,205; Ch 510kgs – €1470; Ch 530kgs – €1,330; Lm 540kgs – €1,425. Dry cows: Lm 495kgs – €960; Ch 860kgs – €1615; Ch 790kgs – €1,410; Lm 690kgs – €1,365; Lm 765kgs – €1,355. Cows with calves at foot made from €1050 to €1970 for a BBx cow and her limousin bull calf at foot. Springer cows: springer cows made from €1000 to €1520 per head; dairy cows (milkers) made from €700 to €1340; dairy springers made from €780 to €910, with dairy maiden heifers making from €620 to €900. Calves: a good number on offer again this week, with demand strongest for the continental lots. Sample prices: AA bull – €275; Hr bull – €305; AA hfr – €275; Fr bull – €120; Ch hfr – €445; Sim bull – €430. Weanling bulls: Chx 285kgs – €920; Lim 290kgs – €900; Ch 330kgs – €945; Ch 435kgs – €1,100; Chx 450kgs – €1175; Ch 305kgs – €980. Weanling heifers: Ch 260kgs – €895; Ch 275kgs – €830; Ch 330kgs – €1,010; Ch 390kgs – €1,095; Lm 445kgs – €1,125. Bullock sale: Monday, May 2nd: 200 bullocks were on offer, with bullocks making from €400 to €980, with their weight and an average of €626 over paid. In general, prices were improved by €30 to €40 per head, with extra customers in attendance trying to source feeding stock. Sample prices: Ch 495kgs – €1,355; Lm 470kgs – €1,280; Ch 510kgs – €1,430; Lm 570kgs – €1,445; Ch 600kgs – €1,450; Lm 700kgs – €1,680. A bullock sale will take place today (Thursday, 12th of May) with a sale of heifers, cows, calves and weanlings on offer. All sales commence at 11 am.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

Weekend

PEOPLE

FACES and PLACES:

See page 28

Murder Murder on stage in JJ’s, Roscommon!

Pictured enjoying Emma Nally’s 18th birthday celebrations in Paddy Finn’s in Kilteevan were Darragh Feeley, Emma Nally, Aisling Feeley and Eva Feeley. Picture: Andrew Fox

Jack’s back! Former CBS student brings play to Arts Centre

Language of the Mute will be performed in Roscommon Arts Centre on Friday, May 13th.

Jack Harte, a playwright and former Roscommon CBS student, brings his compelling play ‘Language of the Mute’ to Roscommon Arts Centre on Friday, May 13th, at 8 pm. Presented by Parthalonians Theatre Productions, this highly relevant play is a powerful exploration of how charisma can be used for unscrupulous purposes and how the inability to find the language to challenge it can ravage lives. Ex-pupils invade a Dublin classroom to confront their former teacher, whose actions have had a profound effect on them. Now he must be called to account so that the past can be confronted and futures

faced. This multi-layered drama takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster where secrets are revealed and sacred cows held up to scrutiny, where young love is rekindled and idealism endures. Harte is delighted to be bringing his play to Roscommon, and to see it performed close to the CBS where he did his Leaving Cert in 1963. Jack is a novelist and short story writer, a former teacher and School Principal. Born near Easkey, Co. Sligo, he moved to Lanesboro, Co. Longford, when he was nine and was educated in Co. Roscommon. Inspired by real life events, the play shines a light on sinister exploitation and the search for justice. Having premiered in The New Theatre Dublin in 2015 with fantastic reviews, it visits Roscommon Arts Centre for one night only on Friday, May 13th, at 8 pm.

This weekend promises to be yet another brilliant weekend of live music at JJ Harlow’s in Roscommon town. Murder Murder arrive all the way from Canada this Saturday evening as part of their first ever trip across the Atlantic to tour Ireland and the UK. The six-piece will be performing at famous venues like Whelan’s in Dublin and McChuills in Glasgow so this is a wonderful opportunity to catch them in the flesh. Murder Murder is a Bloodgrass band, mixing Bluegrass, Outlaw Country and Murder Ballads. Yes, Saturday night will be different. The band bring a toe-tapping element to songs about the dark, lawless and violent frontier of old Northern Ontario. This is an evening not to be missed! On Sunday, Strange Brew are back once again with a Blues Session to round off the weekend in style. Get down to JJ’s this weekend and enjoy a Saturday night of live music with a difference followed by a Sunday of blues.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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

Hamrock’s Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday, 14th May:

Billy Corcoran

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The Glen View Glenamaddy, Co. Galway Thursday, 12th: Country Music Social Dancing from 9.30pm - 12 midnight Music with Stuart

Moyles

Country Cowboy Saturday, 14th: Music with T.R. Dallas Sunday, 15th: Music with Mick Flavin

Friday, 13th: Music with

ALL PARTIES AND FUNCTIONS CATERED FOR

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The Country Ballroom

TULSK INN Saturday 14th May - Music with

Sean Corrigan Sunday 15th May - Music with

Jimmy Buckley The Country Ballroom the liveliest dance venue in the region!

JJ HARLOWS

Week Commencing Fri 13th May—Thurs 19th May Movie Times ANGRY BIRDS 2D (G)

14:00; 16:15 21:30

ANGRY BIRDS 3D (G)

17:00; 19:15

BAD NEIGHBOURS 2 (16)

19:30; 21:40

CAPTAIN AMERICA: CIVIL WAR 2D (12A)

17:40; 18:30; 20:45

EYE IN THE SKY (12A)

21:25

JANE GOT A GUN (15A)

14:45; 19:10; 21:35

ROBINSON CRUSOE (PG)

12:40(KMC); 14:50; 17:00

THE JUNGLE BOOK 2D (PG)

12:15(KMC); 14:40; 17:05

ZOOTROPOLIS (PG)

12:50(KMC); 15:15

Sunday 15th May:

Blues session with

Strange Brew

(Right) Ella and Ann Maria, from Ballyleague National School – who were highly commended on Friday, April 29, at the Strokestown International Poetry Festival award ceremony – with Melissa Newman, a Director of the Festival.

Solstice Choir’s summer launch The Roscommon Solstice Choir will launch their Summer Programme of Concerts in Gleeson’s Townhouse, Roscommon tonight (Thursday, May 12th) at 7.30 pm. The Tom Kendzia concert and workshop due to take place in Strokestown this

Saturday has been cancelled. However the Roscommon Solstice Choir and Tom Kendzia are performing at 11.30 am Mass in the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Strokestown on Sunday (May 15th).

Pleasure Ground returns to Boyle Following a memorable and outstanding performance in Boyle last December, Fregoli in association with Boyle Arts Festival are delighted to bring the play Pleasure Ground back home again to Boyle on Saturday (May 14th). Boyle is of course also home town to the writer, Jarlath Tivnan and the director Maria Tivnan.

Pleasure Ground is Jarlath’s first venture into playwriting and it is based on ideas inspired by the decline of a typical rural Irish town. A group of friends, who have gone their separate ways, meet back at their teenage haunt, the Town Park and playground – known as the Pleasure Ground. The town is dy-

ing, the Pleasure Ground’s glory has faded, and life hasn’t quite matched up to youthful expectations. Over their night together, buried secrets become unearthed, past grievances boil over, and scores are settled. The notions of home, belonging, community and change are themes Fregoli are always keen to explore

and the play began to take shape around the town of Boyle, inspired by its playground and recreational area which is actually called the Pleasure Ground. Pleasure Ground will be performed in St. Joseph’s Hall, Boyle this Saturday, May 14th at 8.30 pm. Due to strong language and themes this perform-

ance is suitable for over 15s only. Tickets priced at €12 and €10, are on sale now from Taylor’s Jewellers, Bridge Street and Únabhán Tourism, King House, Boyle. Tickets will also be available at the door. For more information go to www.fregolitheatre. com and www.boylearts. com

* 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! JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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

A Homecoming Celebration for Minister Denis Naughten was held in locations around the county on Saturday night. Pictured in Hannon’s Hotel with Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources were Patricia, Tomás, Eamon and Emma Beades. Picture: Andrew Fox

A Homecoming Celebration for Minister Denis Naughten was held in locations around the county on Saturday night. Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources is congratulated as he arrives at Hannon’s Hotel. Picture: Andrew Fox

Homecoming for Minister Denis Naughten

A Homecoming Celebration for Minister Denis Naughten was held in locations around the county on Saturday night. Pictured in Hannon’s Hotel with Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources were Martin Stephens, Eva Regan, Nora Holmes, Christy Kennedy, Mary Ferron, Teresa Harte and Kathleen Stephens. Picture: Andrew Fox

A Homecoming Celebration for Minister Denis Naughten was held in locations around the county on Saturday night. Pictured in Hannon’s Hotel with Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources were Marie Naughton, Patricia Rooney, Pat Grenham, Martina Finn, Eamon and Kathleen Harney and Yvonne Grenham. Picture: Andrew Fox

A Homecoming Celebration for Minister Denis Naughten was held in locations around the county on Saturday night. Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources pictured at the Clay Pipe in Knockcroghery with Tonya Hand, Marie Naughton, Cllr. Domnick Connolly, P Walsh, John Naughton and Sinéad Gannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

A Homecoming Celebration for Minister Denis Naughten was held in locations around the county on Saturday night. Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources pictured with Caroline Lambe at the Athlone Springs Hotel. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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

Pictured enjoying Emma Nally’s 18th birthday celebrations in Paddy Finn’s were Anita Silva, Shane McCormack and Emma Nally.

Pictured enjoying Emma Nally’s 18th birthday celebrations in Paddy Finn’s were John Neilan, Emma Nally, Darragh Mullen and Craig Tarmey.

Faces & Emma Nally’s 18th Places birthday celebrations Photographs: Andrew Fox

Paddy Finn’s (Kilteevan)

Pictured enjoying Emma Nally’s 18th birthday celebrations in Paddy Finn’s were Emma Nally and Rachel McNamara.

Pictured enjoying Emma Nally’s 18th birthday celebrations in Paddy Finn’s were Maria Lohan, Emma Nally and Eva Feeley.

Pictured enjoying Emma Nally’s 18th birthday celebrations in Paddy Finn’s were John Joe, Eabha, Emma and Jean Nally.

Pictured enjoying Emma Nally’s 18th birthday celebrations in Paddy Finn’s were Emma Nally and Erica Neilan.

Pictured enjoying Emma Nally’s 18th birthday celebrations in Paddy Finn’s were Mark Fetherston, Emma Nally, Aidan Clogher and Kitara Stewart.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

GalwayCountyFleadh2016 Every good wish to all involved with the Galway County Fleadh from

Deputy

Eugene Murphy Constituency office 071 9633000 open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm in Elphin Street, Strokestown ROSCOMMON OFFICE OPENING SOON Commencing Constituency Clinics in Glenamaddy shortly

Wishing Galway County Fleadh every success from

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www.hubertdeane.com Ph: 094 9643079 Wishing Galway County Fleadh every success from

Seán Keane, a renowned traditional singer, performing in Glenamaddy Community Centre last May.

County Fleadh set to draw crowds to Glenamaddy T

he schedule of events

for the 2016 Galway County Fleadh, to be held over the weekend of May 13th-15th in Glenamaddy has been announced by Craobh Tom Morrison, the local branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. The competition, which has attracted nationwide interest and drawn competitors from across the county, including the Aran Islands, will open on Friday evening at 7 pm in Glenamaddy Community School. There will be a festival of traditional music provided by local musicians of all ages and a tin whistle competition, organised for local national schools, which will be adjudicated by Noreen O’Sullivan and Mary Murray. Saturday, May 14th, sees com-

petition begin in earnest at 10 am with music in the school with an outstanding thirteen bands and twelve grúpaí cheoil registered. The dancing competition will be held through the day in the Community Centre at the Creggs Road and all are welcome to come along and enjoy the competitions at either venue throughout the weekend. Saturday also sees a Fleadh Mass concelebrated at 7 pm by Fathers Mooney and Goaley in St Patrick’s Church, followed by a celebration and memories of the music of Tom Morrison and Michael Kennedy back in the Community School. This ‘look back’ on the famed musicians will be introduced and discussed by Dublin-based Aidan Connolly (fiddle), Oisín

Morrison (flute and harp) and Liam McGonigle (accordion). There is an open invitation to musicians to participate in the tribute, where celebrated Morrison/Kennedy tunes such as Maggie in the Woods, Sweet Flowers of Milltown, Boys of Ballinahinch and Pretty Girls from Mayo are expected to feature. Competition continues at both the Community School and Community Centre on Sunday morning from 10 am. This will be followed at 4 pm by a session for beginners and advanced musicians in Jim Pete’s on the Kilkerrin Road where Glenamaddy-based Mary Jo Fitzpatrick will host what is expected to be a strong gathering. At 6 pm on Sunday, there will

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be a Farewell Concert and it is hoped, weather-permitting, that this will be an open-air event and the crowds will gather around the famous four roads for a feast of music and dance. It is also hoped that two of Ireland’s leading traditional musicians, Sean Keane and Pat Coyne, will make an appearance during the evening. To round off the weekend, and bring the Fleadh to a resounding close, there will be a Céilí with music by the Glenside Céilí Band in Glenamaddy Community Centre from 8 pm to 11 pm. All are welcome to attend what will surely be a rousing night and a fitting end to what organisers expect will be a memorable event to add to Glenamaddy’s musical heritage.

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086 1914565

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Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie

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Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

GalwayCountyFleadh2016 Wishing Galway County Fleadh every success from

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HENEGHAN’S

Craobh Tom Morrison members in concert in Glenamaddy Community Centre last year, supporting Seán Keane, a very good friend of the branch.

‘Craobh Tom Morrison’ to host Fleadh for ﬁrst time < EOGHAN YOUNGMURPHY

raobh Tom Mor-

rison, which serves the Glenamaddy area, will stage the Galway Fleadh for the

first time this weekend. The last time the event was held in the Glenamaddy was in 2014, but it was staged by a different Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann branch because Craobh Tom Morrison

was only formed in September of that year. The name derives from Tom Morrison, a famous flute player. Born at the village of Parkbaun in Clonbern, near Glenamaddy, he emigrated

GLENAMADDY TELEPHONE: (094) 96 59645 OPENING HOURS Monday - Saturday 8.00 am to 10.00 pm Sunday 8.30 am to 10.00 pm

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The chairman of Craobh Tom Morrison, Patricia Hogan, along with Glenn Reid, the branch’s guitar teacher, and Aoife de Búrca, their fiddle tutor.

to the US in 1909. He recorded traditional Irish music in Brooklyn, New York, in the 1920s with the great Michael Coleman, from Sligo, and PJ Conlon, from Milltown. There were no record companies in Ireland in that era. He remains an iconic figure in the industry. Craobh Tom Morrison serves not only Glenamaddy but also the neighbouring areas of Glinsk, Ballymoe, Clonbern, Kilkerrin and Creggs. There are 164 members of the branch, aged from four to 50. “We host individual lessons mostly,” Mary McDermott, the secretary, said. “We try to have a session on a monthly basis. We have lessons in tin whistle, flule, banjo, bodhrán, fiddle, piano accordion, the whole array.” Last year 15 members of the club competed in the Galway Fleadh, which is held annually,

and this weekend around 30 will participate. “They would compete purely for the experience,” Ms. McDermott said. The club, she added, strives to get children playing instruments together. “Our grúpa cheoil would play locally in little events, such as the 1916 Commemoration,” Ms. McDermott said. However, for those who excel this weekend, they will qualify for the Connacht Fleadh in Strokestown on June 25/26 and July 2/3. Ms. McDermott explained: “If you come first or second or if you are recommended on a third place, you get through to the Connacht final. “Then, if you get in the top three in Connacht, you get through to the All-Ireland, which is in Ennis this year, which is lovely.”

Exciting sale coming up at Mannion’s Furniture, Bedding & Lighting Mannion’s Furniture, Bedding & Lighting in Glenamaddy will have a series of reductions on stock over the forthcoming June Bank Holiday weekend. As items are being cleared, prices will be slashed: some will be sold for cost price, while some will have reductions of 20 per cent. Mannion’s was established 53 years ago. It is run by Caroline Mannion. A lot of their stock is imported from Italy. There are diverse items on offer, such as leather suites, recliners, dining tables, chairs, coffee tables, bedding and electrical goods. Free interior design comes with room and house orders, with houses and apartments ‘kitted out’. For more information, contact Mannion’s 094-9659004.

Kilkerrin Road, Glenamaddy, Co. Galway www.west-bake.com

Wishing Galway County Fleadh every success

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

GalwayCountyFleadh2016 Wishing Galway County Fleadh every success from

The Glen View Glenamaddy, Co. Galway

See entertainment page for this weekend’s entertainment guide ALL PARTIES AND FUNCTIONS CATERED FOR

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Liam Keaveney Mobile: 086 1997194

Email: keaveneyagri@hotmail.com Castlelawn, Glinsk, Co. Galway

• Round Baling • Slurry & Muck spreading • Reseeding & Land Reclamation • Combine Harvesting • Fencing • Digger Hire • Mowing • Lime Spreading

Participants in the 2014 Galway Fleadh in Glenamaddy. Picture: Alan Hunt Photography Wishing Galway County Fleadh every success from

Glenamaddy can be route to Connacht Fleadh

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Strokestown will host extravaganza < EOGHAN YOUNG-MURPHY

lans are at an advanced stage for the forthcoming Connacht Fleadh in Strokestown, with those who excel in this weekend’s Galway Fleadh qualifying to compete in the prestigious competition. The provincial final will be staged in Strokestown over the course of two weekends – June 25/26 and July 2/3 – and a range of other events are planned. “It is going to be a weeklong event,” Deputy Eugene Murphy, a local community activist, said. “It is a huge event for a town like Strokestown. “There will be a lot of music, a lot of competition. There will also be a special commemoration of 1916, with music, song and dance of that time.”

It will cost about €50,000 to host the event. Roscommon County Council has donated a grant of around €25,000; the remainder will be financed through a big fundraising effort and some money from the Connacht Fleadh committee. Emmett Corcoran, member of Strokestown Traders Association, also said that the Connacht Fleadh would be a great boost for Strokestown. “Over the course of the two weekends all accommodation providers are expected to be booked out and this is a huge and welcomed boost,” he said. “The Easter Parade kicked off the festival season in Strokestown and now we’re heading for a great week of dance, music and craic with the Connacht Fleadh. “Considering our peripheral positon on the edge

of Connacht, thousands of people are expected to travel from Sligo, Galway, Mayo and Leitrim to the town. “It is a great opportunity for the locality to showcase all it has to offer to those from far and wide. The beauty of the festival is that it is over two weekend with a week of events in between, which means a small town like Strokestown will be well able to cater for the numbers. “The committee have worked tirelessly over the last number of years to organise the event and need to be recognised for their efforts. It is festivals like this that are the lifeblood of small towns and villages. “People of all ages and backgrounds from across the country will bring a diverse and energetic atmosphere to the town for the week. “Music and dance will

fill the air and local residents, community groups and businesses are really looking forward to the Fleadh. “Strokestown traders wishes the committee the very best of luck.”

The Connacht Fleadh is one of two major events held in Strokestown this year, the other being the 150th Strokestown Agricultural Show in September.

090 6665683

Wishing Galway County Fleadh every success

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Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club North/South – 1st: M. Kearns & B. Ferguson, 2nd: B. Quinn & S. Moloney, Gross: A. Rafferty & V. McManus, 3rd: N. McDonagh & K. Blighe. East/West – 1st: J. Halliday & C. McGrath, 2nd: T. & M. O’Keeffe, Gross: T. Murphy & T. Smyth, 3rd: P. & S. Cooney. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club 1st: T. Murphy & J. Halliday, 2nd: M. Kearns & J. Donnellan, Gross: P. Cooney & L. Curley, 3rd: K. Dowd & C. McGrath. St. Coman’s Bridge Club President’s Prize (Mrs. Mary Fallon) – 1st: M. Law & M. Pullinger, 2nd: A. Flynn & N. Hynes, Gross: M. Hickey & G. Spillane, 3rd: E. Mulry & V. Whelehan. 1st Session: K. Dowd & C. Ansboro, 2nd Session: H. Lynn & G. Relihan. Bridge clubs will reopen in the end of September. Summer Bridge will commence in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon in June. Bridge classes for beginners will commence in early October. For further information contact 086-1607913.

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION The giving of the Spirit to the new people of God crowns the mighty acts of the Father in salvation history. The Jewish feast of Pentecost called all devout Jews to Jerusalem to celebrate their birth as God’s chosen people, in the covenant Law given to Moses at Sinai (see Leviticus 23:15-21; Deuteronomy 16:9-11). In today’s First Reading the mysteries prefigured in that feast are fulfilled in the pouring out of the Spirit on Mary and the Apostles (see Acts 1:14). The Spirit seals the new law and new covenant brought by Jesus, written not on stone tablets but on the hearts of believers, as the prophets promised (see 2 Corinthians 3:2-8; Romans 8:2). The Spirit is revealed as the life-giving breath of the Father, the Wisdom by which He made all things, as we sing in today’s Psalm. In the beginning, the Spirit came as a “mighty wind” sweeping over the face of the earth (see Genesis 1:2). And in the new creation of Pentecost, the Spirit again comes as “a strong, driving wind” to renew the face of the earth. As God fashioned the first man out of dust and filled him with His Spirit (see Genesis 2:7), in today’s Gospel we see the New Adam become a life-giving Spirit, breathing new life into the Apostles (see 1 Corinthians 15:45,47). Like a river of living water, for all ages He will pour out His Spirit on His body, the Church, as we hear in today’s Epistle (see also John 7:37-39). We receive that Spirit in the sacraments, being made a “new creation” in Baptism (see 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15). Drinking of the one Spirit in the Eucharist (see 1 Corinthians 10:4), we are the first fruits of a new humanity – fashioned from out of every nation under heaven, with no distinctions of wealth or language or race, a people born of the Spirit. – Scott Hahn PhD, www.salvationhistory.com (courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

ROSCOMMON Driving School 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

FRANKLY

SPEAKING

FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

Sunny side up – and a bonus to avoid political wranglings! It’s Monday morning, the last day of our break in Cabo Roig, in the Costa Blanca area of eastern Spain, and when we drew the curtains for the final time, (not too early in the morning), it was as if we were looking out the window in the good old Emerald Isle. For the first time during our holiday it was grey and miserable and the rain was hammering off the normally bone-dry roadway. It shows what a horrible person I am, because in a perverse way I was delighted to see it. Now it wasn’t solely to spite all the holidaymakers who were arriving that day, but it was more to make it easier for us to say goodbye. There is nothing worse than leaving beautiful sunshine behind you, when you know that, in all

probability, you are going back to wet, cold and windy weather. Funny enough, this time the shoe was on the other foot and we were being told that we would be going home to our own tropical weather. Sadly, I am writing this on the Tuesday morning after getting into Dublin Airport after midnight last night and it’s spilling rain outside. It’s cold and miserable and somewhere along

the line the promised heatwave seems to have been sent elsewhere. Anyway, it’s good to be back and because we were lucky enough to have no telly for the entire duration of our holiday, we were totally protected from all the hopping and trotting as our politicians managed to cobble together some sort of Government. Now, as yet I have no idea as

to what sort of arrangement they came up with, but I can tell you it was very pleasant to never have to look at Enda or Michael or Joan or any of their long faces for a full couple of weeks. I was figuring out what makes life so different when people are away on holidays and I think it’s just that, for a week or two, we forget all our troubles and our worries and we completely relax. It’s amazing in the pubs how people who would normally ignore all those beside them, talk to everyone and anyone and you make friends (at least for a night or two) with strangers, who wouldn’t look twice at you if you were at home. However that’s it for at least another year!

Have a peak at Peaky Blinders While on holiday recently, friends of ours over there gave us box sets of Peaky Blinders, a series that I can honestly tell you I had never heard of. I am now totally hooked on the events involving the Shelby family. If you haven’t seen it, start looking at it right now. The only thing is – maybe be careful if you have a squeamish stomach, there can be rough stuff in it. Our own Cillian Murphy, right, is the main character and his performance is absolutely riveting. It’s said he went off the rails a good bit the last few years, after the Wind that Shakes the Barley, and let’s hope this new success puts him back at the top of the acting tree. On watching this show, he deserves to be there. King House in Boyle

Great events in King House There’s an amazing couple of events coming up in the historic King House in Boyle over the next two weekends. On Friday night next, the 13th May, as part of Roscommon County Council 1916 Centenary Programme of Events, there is an amazing show – The Count, The Countess and the Tommy – which is an evening of the songs of the great Athlone tenor, John McCormack, taking place at 8 pm in King House. International soloists Simon Morgan and Lisa Lambe, who have performed all over the world, including a recent appearance on the Late Late Show, are the stars of the show and not only

is it a fabulous night’s entertainment, but it’s also free. It’s also part of Myles Duncan’s Paths to Freedom centrepiece which is a unique package of lectures, presentations and shows, remembering the Rising, a full hundred years on. The following Friday there is a full day of lectures, talks and all kinds of different events, details of which I will give you in next week’s piece. However, this Friday make sure you get to King House and you will have a night of unbelievable song and music. Tell them I sent you and you probably won’t be let in! Only joking, but maybe don’t mention me!

Well deserved honour for Minister Denis Finally for this week, I have just learned that Denis Naughten has been named Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources in the new amalgamated Government, and in my unbiased opinion, it’s a well deserved honour. He has always struck me as an intelligent, genuine, hard worker and coming from the stable that he does, it’s no wonder. He does what he can for his constituents and I am genuinely glad to see him take his place at the top table and let’s hope he gets a long run at doing a job ‘Till next week, he appears to be eminently Bye for now suited to.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

Classifieds

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

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

WEEKEND ON CALL EMERGENCY ROTA From 6 pm Friday 13th to Monday 16th May for Medical Emergencies Please Contact WESTDOC FOR APPOINTMENT On: 1850 365 000 EMERGENCY SURGERIES WILL BE HELD ON SAT 11am TO 12 Noon OR 4pm TO 5pm AND SUN 11am TO 12 Noon.

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

DOCTOR SURGERY

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

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

FREE CAR PARK AVAILABLE AT REAR OF SURGERY

PHONE: 090 66 25650

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

Patrick Lynch Clinical Dental Technician

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

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

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

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

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

BOUNCING CASTLES ROSCOMMON CASTLES

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

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

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

CAREERS

CHIROPODIST

CORNERSTONES

CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

Give your home a new look with

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

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

CAR FOR SALE < FOR SALE: Ford Mondeo 2009, 165,000km. NCT to January 2017. Excellent condition, lady owner. Very economical family car. Phone 087 6597573.

CHIMNEY CHIMNEY CLEANING & REPAIRS

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

Phone No: (087) 4136355

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

BALLYGAR Bouncing Castles

Tel: 087 2798704

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

CHIMNEY CLEANING

JUST ARRIVED Bouncing Castle Disco Dome • Keenest rates • FULLY INSURED

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

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2.30PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

CHIMNEY CLEANING POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

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

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

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

(090) 66 26023 086 8225575

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Phone: (086) 8433433

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland

BUPA & VHI Covered

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

CORNERSTONES 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

DRIVING LESSONS

Paul McStay

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

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

DOCKERY’S SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

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

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

DOCTORS’ ROTA

O TOW WI RN T TH EA SYL’s School of Motoring

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

Contact: 085 1348779

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TEL: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

Classifieds DRIVING LESSONS Learn to drive with ....

Roscommon Driving School CONTACT: (090) 66 61102 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

FARMING SERVICE < ABATTOIR 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. TREATED < PRESSURE 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.

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

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: Makita Electric Power Washer. Used once still in box. Plus leaf blower and vacuum. Reason for selling - unwanted gift. Tel: 086 8125238 after 3pm on Sunday and Monday.

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.

Woodchipping & Shredding Splitting service also available Insured and c2 Registered Contractor

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

Arable Sowing for Glás

• Woodchipping • Log Splitting • Tree Surgery • Hedge Cutting

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

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: New complete double divan bed including leather base and headboard, memory foam pocket sprung mattress. Still in packaging. Retail €950, will sell for €240 including free delivery. Tel: 086 4438919.

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

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

< LANDS WANTED TO RENT for horses for 11 months. All areas considered. Cash customer. Contact: 086 0527006.

GARDENING SERVICES

www.parklawntreeservices.com

CONNOLLY AGRI CONTRACTING

Telephone: 086 8306165 or 086 3006009

GARDENING

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

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

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

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

HAPPY TAILS BOARDING KENNELS Lanesborough WHERE TAILS ARE ALWAYS HAPPY! • Large heated sleeping areas with large covered runs • Nine large play areas • Secure, Safe and fun for our guests Check out our website www.happytails boardingkennels.com 043 33 30804 083 0037577

MISCELLEANOUS HEEL SPUR/ PLANTAR FASCIITIS/ FOOT PAIN? Come and try our

‘Soft-Step’ Insoles 42 years on the market. Astounding results. Monthly clinic in Roscommon town.

086 8309392 or 086 8308757 www.stepforwardireland.com

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

Design Consultation Planning Applications New Build, Extend, Renovate Bespoke Design Domestic, Commercial & Agricultural

086 3482387 moleskin architecture@gmail.com facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission is sought from Roscommon County Council to provide a Garden Centre and carry out all associated site development work on existing site containing a light engineering workshop at Ballykilcline Townland, Kilglass, Co. Roscommon for Niall Donlon. Signed: C. Gray & Associates Ltd, Dromod, Co. Leitrim 087 7021857. 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 Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application can be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Egan Mulready and Associates Ltd (Athlone) on behalf of our client, Finbar Carroll, intend to apply for permission for development at this site: Beagh (Brabazon), Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of: a one and a half storey dwelling, a detached single storey domestic garage, site entrance, connection to the public sewer and all associated site works. Signed: Egan Mulready & Associates Ltd. 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, €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.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission on behalf of Triest Press to erect three freestanding signs in the car park to the front of an existing building and associated siteworks at Ballypheasan, Athlone Road, Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Murray, Project Managers, Engineers & Surveyors. Ph: (087) 2222874 seamusmurray60@gmail. com The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

www.morrislohan.ie PROPERTIES FOR SALE < HOUSE FOR SALE: 2 bed semi-detached bungalow Quinn Villas, Ballaghaderreen, Reasonably priced. Tel: 094 98 61584/086 2746778.

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.

< PERSON REQUIRED to share house in Roscommon town. Contact: 087 4654011.

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT TO LET: Three bedroom house, together with garage and fuel shed. Fully furnished, all mod cons, dual central heating, oil and solid fuel. Ballintubber area. Rent negotiable. Tel: 087 2959925. < 2 BED BUNGALOW TO LET: 12 months lease. Off acecourse road, 3 miles from Roscommon town. Furnished, solid fuel stove, with water radiators and open fire. (Oil boiler to be fitted this summer). Off-road parking. References essential. €500 pcm. 1 month’s rent in advance plus €500 deposit. Contact: 086 1564540. < APARTMENT TO LET: Town end of The Walk near Lidl/Aldi. Kitchen/living room, two bathrooms plus 4 bedrooms, clean and warm. Would suit professionals. Tel: 087 2822534 after 7pm. < ONE BED APARTMENT TO LET: Racecourse Road, Roscommon. Tel: 086 8538519.

PHOTOGRAPHER AVAILABLE PHOTOGRAPHER AVAILABLE FOR - Weddings - Christenings - First Holy Communions - Confirmations Phone: 089 9530397 for an appointment

PAINTING & DECORATING PAINTER & DECORATOR Private & Commercial Power washing 25 years experience Free Estimates Given

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

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

Classifieds REFLEXOLOGY

REFLEXOLOGY

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

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

SITUATIONS VACANT INTERESTED IN WORKING IN CHILDCARE? Full training and work experience provided to become a qualified Early Years Educator. To be eligible for this training and employment programme, you must be 21 years of age or over and are in receipt of a social welfare/DSP payments for 1 year or more. Successful candidates will receive a top up payment in addition to your Social Welfare/DSP payment. Free childcare may also be provided. Vacancies throughout county Roscommon.

Tel: 087 2264951

For further information please contact Kara or Linda on 094 98 70111 or 087 6486457

SAFEPASS

TOM CREAN AND SON PAINTING CONTRACTORS LTD.

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon Find us on facebook

Wish to recruit

SAFE PASS Roscommon 20th May Longford 13th & 27th May

JIM McMAHON 087 2404818

SEPTIC TANKS

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

SITUATIONS VACANT < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED to mind children in their own home, full-time Monday - Friday from September. Also required for first three weeks of July. Roscommon town area. Please reply to Box 887, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

EXPERIENCED PAINTERS Eligibility criteria include the following: • A minimum of five years experience, preferably across a number of sectors including industrial, commercial, heritage and domestic Certification in the following: - Manual handling - Safe Pass • Experience of working with heights • Applicants must be self starters with the ability to work on their own initiative. • Full clean driving license • Flexibility in regards to travel for work a must. PLEASE APPLY IN WRITING TO: Tom Crean and Son Painting Contractors Ltd., VIA EMAIL: info@tomcreanandson.ie ALTERNATIVELY CONTACT 087 7675842 Closing date for applications is: Thursday 19th May 2016

SITUATIONS WANTED < CARER AVAILABLE to work evenings/nights. 14 years experience. Roscommon and surrounding areas. Phone: 086 3754863.

SOCIAL DANCE CLASSES

Learn to Dance SOCIAL DANCE • Waltz • Quickstep • Foxtrot • Jive DANCE FOR FITNESS, FUN AND FRIENDSHIP

Group Classes or individual Lessons Ideal for Wedding Couples, etc Beginners, Improvers and Social Dance Only €10 per night

No partners needed

Beginners: 8.30-9.30pm Improvers 9.30-10.30 pm Dance Afterwards Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon - Every Thursday

Contact Joe: 086 4001456 Email: jlynch915@gmail.com Web: www.socialdanceireland.ie find us on facebook

SOLID FUEL < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned timber only €2 per bag, buy 20 bags get 2 free • Bags of top quality black turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free • 8 x 4 trailer load of turf only €120 delivered • 10 x 6 box load of timber only €180 delivered • 1 Bags of BNM briquettes only €2.50 delivered • Tonne bags of turf and firewood only €35 delivered. • ALSO PACKAGE DEAL: 1 bale of briquettes, 1 bag of logs, 3 bags of turf delivered only €10. Price cannot be beaten. Contact Tom: 086 2628439.

SOULMATES SOULMATES - DON’T BE ALONE, LOVE IS ALL THERE IS: Find that special person for friendship and romance with like-minded people. Safe, reliable and confidential. Tel: 087 9216302/087 7720250.

SINGLE? LIKE TO MINGLE? Join NOW and get 50% offer!

Tel: 087 1784592 or 087 3555306

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

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

(086) 2714879

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

ATHLEAGUE CABS 1-8 Seats Wheelchair Accessible

PADDY PURCELL 087-3186590

HUGH KILDUFF Hackney Service (086) 2479829 HACKNEY SERVICE Tommy Gilligan, Roscommon

(086) 8099503 JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 TOP SOIL HANLY QUARRIES LIMITED Top quality screened top soil Delivery available

Tel: 071 9635915

TUITION GRINDS IN JUNIOR AND LEAVING CERTIFICATE BUSINESS AND ACCOUNTING Tutoring for college students in Business and Accountancy. Go to www. mcgowanaccountancy. com to download voucher

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

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169

LEAVING CERTIFICATE STUDENTS

Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

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

VAN AND MAN AVAILABLE FOR:

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849.

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. < GOOD QUALITY TURF FOR SALE: Delivered in trailer loads and bags. Reasonably priced. Tel: 086 3903120. < MASSIVE MAY OFFERS: Two year old (2014) dry screened black seasoned hopper turf. Sold in 7 and 8 tonne loads. Priced to sell. Call: 087 3831953.

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

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

LOFT LADDERS Aluminium

Supplied & Fitted From

0 ONLY €15 The company that can do all them small jobs 094 96 31880 087 9100477 www.oddjobsolutions.ie

Delivery, collections, house and flat removals.

Contact: 087 6718564 PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND DECORATING CONTRACTOR

– For all your decorating needs.

Call John 086 4679798

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

Contact Vincent on 083 4130827 < MAN AVAILABLE FOR ROOFING: roof lights fitted, re-roofing, facia board and gutter repairs, roofing, flat roofing, timber, slating, tiling, stone work, chimney repairs, Insurance claims handled, attic conversions, lights, general building, etc. All types of farm work, repairs to sheds, cattle crushes, yards, concrete, fencing and painting. Contact: 087 9188170. < FURNITURE REMOVALS DELIVERY SERVICE: Household and office furniture removals. Large and small loads to all areas. Phone for free quotation: 086 2649313. Email: homemoversrc@gmail. com < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel Tom on 086 0815802. < MAN AVAILABLE FOR all roofing and repairs. General maintenance; velux windows fitted. Facia soffit gutters supplied and fitted. 10% discount for OAPs. Contact: 087 6430164.

USEFUL SERVICES < 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.

FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 07/05/2016 FIRST PRIZE €50: Ali Jane, c/o Frances Finishing Touches SECOND PRIZE €25: Paul Gilleran c/o John Igoe THIRD PRIZE €20: Gladys Hoare c/o K Hoare 8 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Leah Winston; Michael Hanley, c/o Magnums; Gladys & Kevin, c/o K. Hoare; Bernie Myles, c/o K. Finan; Margaret Fallon, c/o K. Collins; Mary Brandon, c/o K. Finan; Catherine Barry, Athlone, c/o K. Hoare; Kathleen Finan, Celtic Avenue. 5 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Joe Hoare; Aaron Dimambzo; Mary Beirne, Corboley; Thomas Hoare; Kathleen Hoare. TOTAL RECEIPTS: €326 TOTAL PRIZES: €200

THANKGIVINGS 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.C. 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.B.

THANKSGIVING NOTICES CONTINUED ON PAGE 37

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

AtYourService BLINDS

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Tel: (090) 66 30521 Mobile: (086) 8115928

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

Fergal 086 1016899 CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt: Tel: 090

9673336 Mob: 086 2678350

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

Dead & Worn-Out Animals JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSULATION

TARMACADAM

Gerry Monaghan

PIO TULLY

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

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation

• Relining • Rebuilding • CCTV Camera Inspection

CATHAL DOOLEY 087 6579064

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

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

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

WE REPLACE AND FIT DOUBLE GLAZED UNITS

Donal Haughey - 086 8210710

KEEN and COMPETITIVE PRICES ROSCOMMON, WEST of IRELAND and BEYOND!!

www.roscommonwindows.ie

HOME MAINTENANCE

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892

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

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

091 768 768 www.ecowise.ie

Kiltoom, Athlone, Co. Roscommon T: (090) 64 93386 M: (086) 8207242 or Darren on 086 8972265

WINDOW/DOORS

E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net

info@ecowise.ie

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

Contact David Martin on (087) 9959417

Gary Jameson 2nd Fix Carpentry

090 66 33026 Racecourse Road, Roscommon - SALES - SERVICE - PARTS

WE STOCK • Locks • Handles • Hinges • Letter Boxes • Glass • Double Glazed Units

FOR ALL WINDOWS & DOORS FULLY INSURED www.roscommonwindows.ie

VETERINARY SUPPLIES & SERVICES

Alan Somers

Lanesboro Street, Roscommon. Tel: 090-6626898 Web: www.allcreatures.ie www.facebook.com/allcreaturesroscommon

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

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

Chimney Cleaning Service NOW AVAILABLE TARMACADAM

Donamon

• Doors, Timber Floors • Stairs

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

(086) 0708833

Boyle Glass Ballinameen, Boyle,

Tel: 071 96 68368 - Stained Decorative

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

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

-VETERINARY CLINIC & Shop -

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

Tarmacadam LTD

• Attic Conversions and all internal woodwork

All Creatures

House & Garden Maintenance

Munsboro, Roscommon • Fitted Kitchens & bedroom units

GLASS WORKS

ELITE CHIMNEY REPAIRS • Lining

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

STEPHEN HOARE

TARMACADAM

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

SHOWROOM:

Contact

Daily collection

Email:

CLEANING

WINDOWS/DOORS

Contact Damian at (087) 9962361

CRASH REPAIRS

HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Oisin Bio-Energy Clinic at Molloy’s Pharmacy, Harrison Centre, Roscommon town For the treatment of all illnesses – e.g. Asthma, Arthritis, Back Problems, Depression, Headaches, etc. SUITABLE FOR BABIES TO ADULTS

TELEPHONE: 086 4568509

SERVICES AVAILABLE:

PLEASE RING TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT Member of

GROUP

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

MAL HEVEHAN Telephone: 086 8100292

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

AtYourService/Appointments/FamilyNotices WINDOWS AND DOORS

APPOINTMENTS

Sean Doyle & Sons Ltd

BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES ROSCOMMON

ESTABLISHED 1978

• Circular Road, Roscommon LARGE STOCK OF MISFIT WINDOWS AND DOORS FOR SALE Many different sizes available, all in excellent condition

Visit our Showroom with your sizes you will not be disappointed

CONTACT 090-6626753 • www.seandoylewindows.ie • info@seandoylewindows.ie

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. A.M.K. 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. 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.C. 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.

PRAYER TO BLESSED VIRGIN MARY NEVER KNOWN TO FAIL O, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. O, Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech thee from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in my necessity (make request). There are none who can withstand your power. O show me herein you are my mother. O, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (say 3 times). Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Publication must be made in grateful thanks for favour received. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored and glorified throughout the world now and foverer. Amen. Say 6 times a day, for 9 days. Promise publication. K.M.G. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it) Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your 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. Thanks also to St. Anthony, St. Martin and Our Lady of Clonfert for many favours received. M.

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

COMHAIRLE CHONTAE ROSCOMÁIN

Roscommon County Council

The Brothers of Charity Services Roscommon empower people with intellectual disability/autism to live the lives they choose. Our focus going forward is to form a relationship/partnership with each individual and their family, enabling them to design their own service so that they can enjoy a real life in a real place with a healthy balance of supports.

Applications are invited from suitably qualiﬁed candidates for inclusion on panels for the following posts:

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the following positions:

STAFF NURSE (REF: CF/06/16)

WASTEWATER INSPECTOR

Permanent, Pensionable and Part-Time

GRADE V (TEMPORARY)

Location - Boyle Residential Services, Co. Roscommon

SEWERAGE CARETAKER

LOCUM STAFF NURSE PANEL

GRADE III (TEMPORARY)

(REF: CF/07/16) Temporary, Pensionable and Part-Time

WATERWORKS CARETAKER GRADE III (TEMPORARY)

Application forms and particulars can be obtained from the Human Resources Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, e-mail: humanresources@ roscommoncoco.ie or telephone 090 6637334

Location - Mid-Roscommmon Day and Residential Services For further information and application pack, please refer to our website at www.brothersofcharity.ie/roscommon or contact the Human Resources Department on 090 66 28511 hr@roscommon.brothersofcharity.ie Closing Date: 1.00pm on Wednesday 25th May 2016

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 5.00 p.m. on Friday, 27th May 2016

The Brothers of Charity Services Roscommon is an equal opportunities employer

Canvassing will disqualify. Roscommon County Council is an equal opportunities employer. Is fóstóir comhionannais deiseanna í Comhairle Chontae Roscomaín

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARY NOTICES CARTY Tom and Mary

COMHAIRLE CHONTAE ROSCOMÁIN

Ballygar, Co. Galway (3rd Anniversaries) In loving memory of Tom who passed away on 5th July 2013 and Mary who passed away on 30th March 2013

Roscommon County Council Applications are invited from suitably qualiﬁed candidates for inclusion on a panel for the following posts in Roscommon Library Services:

PART-TIME BRANCH LIBRARIAN

We send you butterfly kisses You don’t always know that we are there But it is us peeking ‘round the corner or touching a strand of your hair. We see you on days you are crying or wishing we could talk once in a while Eventhough we are now in Heaven We still want to see you smile. We visit at night when you are sleeping We come quietly in your dreams and whisper words ever so softly To say death is not what it seems. We see you sometimes at the table When you don’t know that we are there As you gaze over at our picture We hope you know how much we care. We are sending you hugs from Heaven We wish you could feel it today The love we share is forever Time and space can’t take that away.

CASTLEREA BRANCH LIBRARY ELPHIN BRANCH LIBRARY STROKESTOWN BRANCH LIBRARY Application forms and particulars can be obtained from the Human Resources Department, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, e-mail: humanresources@ roscommoncoco.ie or telephone 090 6637334 The closing date for receipt of completed applications is is 5.00 p.m. on Friday, 27th May 2016 Canvassing will disqualify. Roscommon County Council is an equal opportunities employer. Is fóstóir comhionannais deiseanna í Comhairle Chontae Roscomaín

PLANNING EXTRA ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Finn Murray for planning permission to erect 2 No Polytunnels each with a floor area of 135sq.m. with all ancillary site works at Cloonrane, Strokestown, Roscommon. Signed: Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon, Ph Office: 090 6627950, www.morrislohan.ie The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority Roscommon County Council, Aras an Chontae, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application can be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20 within a 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.

Forever loved and dearly missed by Mary, Andrew, Thomas, Simon, David and Michael, son-in-law Raymond, daughter-inlaws Louise, Michelle, Mary and Angela, grandchildren Karl, Alanna, Simone, Mia, Jack, Darragh and Ciarán. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 14th May at 7.30pm in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar.

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!

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES LUNT Gerry

HAMROCK Liam

DAVIS Agnes

DOORLY John

HOLIAN Eamon

(16th Anniversary)

Athleague, Co. Roscommon Who died on 15th May 1995 (21st Anniversary)

Carrabane, Derrane, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

(1st Anniversary)

Kilteevan (22nd Anniversary) R.I.P

In loving memory of a dear husband and father, who died on May 14th 2000 R.I.P. Always loved and sadly remembered by his loving wife Josie and family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 14th May at 10am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

RYAN JIM Creevy, Roscommon (12th Anniversary) In loving memory of Jim who died on 14th May 2004

No matter how life changes, No matter what we do, There’s a special place within our hearts, That will always be for you.

Sadly missed by your wife and family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 14th May at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague.

MALONE James (Jimmy) Cloonadra, Ballyleague (5th Anniversary) Who died on 20th May 2011

You always had a smile to share, A laugh, a joke and time to care. A wonderful nature, Warm and true, Those are the memories We have of you.

Forever in our thoughts and prayers, sadly missed by your neighbours and friends. Anniversary Mass on Friday 13th May at 8am in Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

We will never forget your name And in our hearts you will always remain.

Missed by his wife Geraldine, children Paul, Aidan, Barbara, Sarah and Linda, daughters-in-law, sons-inlaw and 13 grandchildren. Anniversary Mass will be held on Saturday 14th May at 7pm in Ballyleague Church.

Your memories are so precious, Your presence missed so much. You will always be remembered and missed by all of us. Our thoughts are always with you in a very special way, Not just on your anniversary But every single day. You always had a smile to share A laugh, a joke and time to care. A kindly nature, warm and true, Many lovely memories we have of you.

Forever loved and always missed by your loving family and grandchildren xxx Anniversary Mass on Saturday 21st of May in Our Lady of Lourdes Church Derrane at 7pm.

CONNOLLY (nee Cooper) Veronica

Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

PAT: 087 7799076 PAUL: 086 6052649

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

Est: 1969

Main Street, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Are delighted to announce the opening of their new offices and Funeral Home in Ballinameen, Boyle

Contact John on 086 2328291 or Marty on 086 0758044

Email: higginsandsons2@gmail.com Web: www.funeraldirectorswest.com

You always had a smile to share Time to give and time to care A loving nature A heart of gold Those are the memories we will always hold.

Sadly missed by his wife Josie, sons Declan, Brendan, Norman and Alan, daughters-in-law Margaret, Criona, Pauline and Heather, grandchildren Lisa, Jamie, Conor, Ryan, Ciara, Duane and Dakota,greatgrandchild Madison, sister Olive, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. Anniversary Mass in Clooneycolgan Church on Sunday 15th May at 10am.

GILLOOLY Paul Culleen, Kilteevan, Roscommon Called to his eternal home on 9th May 2011 (5th Anniversary)

Cloonakilleg, Mount Talbot (12th Anniversary) Died on the 12th of May 2004

In loving memory of a dear mother, Veronica Connolly, who passed away on 12th May 2004 R.I.P.

Ros Memorials

Treasured memories of John Doorly, late of Clooneycolgan, Donamon

‘Tenderly we treasure the past Memories that will always last When we cease to think of you Will be when God calls us too’

Always loved and remembered by Sarah and Brigid, Ian, Deirbhle and Clodagh.

As each day dawns and starts anew, And as each day ends, We think of you, And in between no matter where, Deep in our hearts you are always there.

Miss and love you forever, dad and mom xx ~~~~~~~~~~ A star born on earth Now shining brightly in Heaven.

I miss your love and friendship And the bond that we all shared I miss your words of wisdom And the way you always cared. Of all the gifts of life on earth, However great or small To have you as my husband Was the greatest gift of all.

All my love, Margaret x ~~~~~~~~~~~ DAD We once had someone special That money could not buy We had a special father That could not say goodbye You taught us love and fondness You taught us how to care You bound us all together With love few families share But of all that life has given us And of all that’s left to do We never had a greater gift than the years we shared with you. The memories of your smiling face Are with us everyday So meet us in our dreams dear dad And talk to us once more Ease the everlasting pain That makes our hearts so sore And when our lives are through We pray that God will take our hands And lead us straight to you.

We love and miss you always dad, from John, Eamon, Tom, Trish, Josie, Russell, Charlotte and Lara xx

Love always, Dette, Carol and Dee. Anniversary Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan at 10am on Sunday 15th May.

McPHILLIPS Michael Racecourse Road, Roscommon (1st Anniversary) 13th May 2015

On the First Anniversary of the death of our loving Michael, his parents Syl and Marie, siblings Kevin, Yvonne, Declan, Alan and Grainne and extended family would like to offer their heartfelt thanks and express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to all who sympathised and supported us on our sad loss. Profound thanks to the massive crowds who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial, to those who travelled long distances, called to the house, made phone calls, sent Mass Cards, floral tributes and letters of sympathy. Your sincere kindness will never be forgotten. A special word of thanks to our wonderful and kind neighbours, relatives and friends who helped and supported the family, prepared and brought refreshments to our home and shared treasured memories. We will forever be indebted to you for your kindness, generosity and thoughtfulness. Thank you to the Garda, Ambulance Services and Dr Hanratty who attended Michael. Heartfelt thanks to Tom and Pat Smyth, Smyth’s Funeral Directors for the courteous and dignified manner in which they carried out the Funeral arrangements and to the gravediggers who prepared Michael’s final resting place. Sincere appreciation to Monsignor C. Travers, Fr. E. McLoughlin, Fr. Irek and Fr. D. Morris for your kindness shown to the family and for your contribution to the beautiful ceremony. Our thanks also to Miriam Hunt and choir, Altar Servers, Sacristan and all those who participated and enhanced the Funeral Mass. Thanks to Horan’s for providing catering after the Funeral. A very special thanks to the staff of Molloys, Supervalu, Magnums and Casey’s for the Guards of Honour on the night of the Removal and morning of the Funeral. Such an overwhelming tribute to our son and brother, it will never be forgotten by the family. Very special thanks to M. Fortune (IGB) and M. Tucker for their kind words written on the IGB website and in The Sporting Press. Thanks also to the management, staff and patrons of Longford Greyhound track. As it would not be possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Michael touched the hearts of all who were privileged to know him and will be forever missed by all of us. First Anniversary Mass will take place in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Saturday May 14th at 8pm.

LEAVY Memorials Lanesborough

Est. 1784

Headstones in Granite and Limestone Additional names inscribed Tel: 043 33 21184/ 086 1637808/086 2040154

memorial stationery from

For brochure and sample pack call:

Athlone Road, ROSCOMMON 090 66 27500

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

SportsPeople GAA Results Saturday, May 7th Hodson Bay Hotel Group Senior Football Championship - Section A Roscommon Gaels 0-10 Clann na nGael 0-8 Hodson Bay Hotel Group Senior Football Championship - Section B St Croan’s 0-13 Michael Glaveys 1-3 Western-Gaels 1-13 Strokestown 0-8 Intermediate Football Championship - Section A Tulsk Lord Edwards 2-15 St. Dominic’s 0-12 Intermediate Football Championship - Section B Eire Óg 0-13 St. Aidan’s 0-9 Sunday, May 8th Hodson Bay Hotel Group Senior Football Championship - Section A Boyle 1-12 Castlerea St. Kevin’s 1-7 Pádraig Pearses 0-14 St. Brigid’s 0-9 Hodson Bay Hotel Group Senior Football Championship - Section B St. Faithleach’s 2-14 Elphin 0-12 Intermediate Football Championship - Section B Clann na nGael 0-15 Shannon Gaels 0-10 St. Barry’s 0-12 St. Michael’s 0-9

GAA Fixtures Friday, May 13th Adult Football League Division 4 At Strokestown: Strokestown v St. Croan’s. 8 pm Saturday, May 14th Adult Football League Division 5 At Michael Glavey’s: Michael Glavey’s v Kilmore. 7 pm Intermediate Football Championship - Section A At O’Rourke Park: Kilmore v Oran. 7 pm Junior A Football Championship - Section A At Creggs: Creggs v Ballinameen. 7 pm At Kiltoom: St. Brigid’s v Kilglass Gaels. 7.15 pm Junior A Football Championship - Section B At Kiltoom: Pádraig Pearses v Western-Gaels. 5.30 pm Kiernan Kilcline (Roscommon Gaels) stays on his feet after receiving a well-timed shoulder challenge from Johnny Dunning (Clann). Picture: Andrew Fox

GAELS REIGN! game of the weekend Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC (Group A) ROSCOMMON GAELS CLANN NA NGAEL

Rest of club action: Pages 44-46 < SEAMUS DUKE

In a true ‘game of two halves’, played in atrocious weather conditions, Roscommon Gaels withstood a sustained late onslaught from the champions before emerging with a hard-fought two-point win at Lisnamult on Saturday night.

0-10 0-8 The torrential rain and biting cold wind ensured that there was a small crowd in attendance, but despite the conditions the exchanges were intense and it was an enjoyable game. Clann will rue missing many chances to secure a draw or even a late win, but the Gaels will point to a good first-half display which set the foundation for this victory. Playing with the wind and

rain at their backs, the Gaels raced into a 0-5 to 0-0 lead after 14 minutes, with the very impressive Kieran Kilcline (2), Brian Kelly, Aidan Duignan and Scottie Oates on target with scores from play. Then Clann got a grip at midfield and with Graham Pettit and sub Cathal Shine dominating, they replied with three unanswered points, all from Donie Shine (two frees). Kieran Kilcline with another point, and a super team score from Brian Kelly extended the Gaels’ lead again before Fergal Lennon and an Enda Lannon free saw the sides go in at the break with the Gaels leading by 0-8 to 04. Given their dominance, the home side should have been further ahead. Clann were in control of the second-half exchanges but they frittered away some giltedged scoring chances. Graham Pettit and Donie Shine (a free) reduced the lead to two by the 36th minute, and

then in the 40th minute Enda Lannon’s free gave the home side some breathing space. But frees from Donie Shine in the 41st and 44th minutes reduced the margin to one and it looked odds-on a Clann win at this stage. But some bad wides from the county champions and some heroic Gaels defending ensured that Clann were not to score again, and when Kieran Kilcline broke forward to score a fine point in the 58th minute, the Gaels secured a vital win. Best for the Gaels were Liam McNeela, John McManus, Kieran Kilcline and Brian Kelly, while for Clann, Jack Connaughton, Fergal Lennon, Graham Pettit and Donie Shine were best. Roscommon Gaels: James Fetherston; Kevin Kilcline, John McManus, Liam McNeela; Kevin O’Gara, David O’Gara, Ronan Gleeson; James McDermott, Kieran Kilcline (0-4); Aidan Duig-

nan (0-1), Enda Lannon (0-2, frees), Brian Kelly (0-2); Paul Gleeson, John Conteh, Scott Oates (0-1). Subs: Mark Nally for Duignan, Richard Hughes for Conteh. Clann na nGael: Conor Hannon; Jack Connaughton, Stephen Flynn, Ronan Gavin; Fergal Lennon (0-1), David Flynn, Sean McManus; Graham Pettit (0-1), Dara Pettit; Emmet Kenny, Donie Shine (0-6, 5 frees), Cian McManus; Johnny Dunning, Cathal Callinan, Jamie Fahy. Subs: Cathal Shine for D Pettit, Matt Scally for Callinan, Aaron O’Reilly for S McManus, Rory McManus for C McManus. Referee: G Carmody.

Wides: Roscommon Gaels 7; Clann na nGael 12

Sunday, May 15th Junior A Football Championship - Section A At Knockcroghery: St. Dominic’s v St. Ronan’s. 2.45 pm Junior A Football Championship - Section B At St. Dominic’s: Strokestown v St. Aidan’s. 1 pm At Rockfield: St. Joseph’s v Castlerea St. Kevin’s. 2 pm

Underage GAA Fixtures Thursday, May 12th U-14 Football League Division 1 At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v St. Ciarán’s. 7.30 pm U-14 Football League Division 2 At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St. Kevin’s v Oran. 7.30 pm U-14 Football League Division 3 At James Timothy Park: Éire Óg v St. Faithleach’s. 7.30 pm Friday, May 13th U-12 Spring League Division 3 At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v St. Michael’s. 7 pm Saturday, May 14th Eurona Brisknet U-14 Hurling League Group A At Rockfield: Oran v Carrick Hurling Club. 7 pm At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Padraig Pearses v Four Roads. 7 pm Eurona Brisknet U-14 Hurling League Group B At Knockcroghery: St. Dominic’s v Roscommon Gaels. 7 pm

Man of the Match:

Monday, May 16th

John McManus (Roscommon Gaels)

U-16 Football League Division 2 Final At Rockfield: Strokestown v St. Ciarán’s. 7.30 pm

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

SportsPeople This weekend’s action: This weekend racing today starts at 5.30 pm in Tipperary otherwise known to the veterans as Limerick Junction with 3 races confined to point to point horses. Friday sees Kilbeggan run their second meeting off at 5.35 pm and there is racing on the all weather surface at Dundalk at 5.50 pm. On Saturday with a 2.05 pm start there are all the thrills and spills of national hunt action at Punchestown off at 2.00 pm. On Sunday the flat racing is at Proudstown Park, Navan with first at 1.45 pm and the jump action at Killarney tapes away at 2.05 pm starting their 3 day festival. The going is yielding at Tipperary today with tomorrow’s forecast good to firm and watering at Kilbeggan and standard at Dundalk. Saturday at Punchestown the going will be good and on Sunday yielding to soft at Killarney and good to yielding at Navan. where good to yielding at Limerick and yielding at Leopardstown is probable. Don’t Bother Me made a very welcome return to the winning enclosure making every post a winning one for Sligo based trainer Niall Moran and local owner nonagenarian Edric Browne in the John R Fitzpatrick Agricultural Contractor Handicap at Leopardstown on Sunday. Seamie Heffernan did the steering. The horse’s only win was his maiden in 2012 on this track and he also ran in the English Guineas in 2013.

Monday at Lenebane

Horses for Courses

On a beautiful May evening Roscommon staged it first meeting of the year on good ground and the punter had a slight edge

on the layer. In the opener Alishan make a successful debut for Dermot Weld and Pat Smullen in the EBF Median Auction Maiden accounting for the favourite Admodum and Highland Fling by ¾l and 3¼l. Pat Smullen completed an EBF double with Pat Fahey’s Queen Alphabet beat Grey Sky Blue by a neck in a ding-dong battle for EBF Fillies Maiden. Not A Whisper finished 3rd some 3¼l back. In between trainer Johnny Murtagh with Connor King aboard won the Roscommon Handicap with Full Court Press by a neck and 1l from Lord Justice and Ceol Na Nog. The winner hit the front at the distance marker and showed good battling qualities to hold on. In the final flat race, the Knockcroghery Handicap, Synopsis, for Ger Lyons and Gary Carroll, won ¾l and a neck from Sweet Cherry and Deor. In the first of the national hunt races Jamie Codd produced joint favourite Blood Crazed Tiger with a well timed challenge to win the Kepak Flat Race for Gigginstown and Gordon Elliott. He won 5l and the same from Lakeside Castle and Crosshue Boy. In the myITdepartment.ie Handicap Chase jockey of the moment Jack Kennedy had to be at his best aboard the favourite Rebel Cry to battle back and pip Sir Abbot and Barry Geraghty by a head having been passed on the run in with Reafadda 3¾l behind them. The winner is trained outside Gort by Norman Lee. Racing came to a close with a win for Go Darci Go owned by Philip Reynolds winning the Beginners Chase at 10/11 favourite and giving Conor Dwyer a welcome return

Don’t Bother Me and Seamie Heffernan beating Plough Boy.

to the winner’s enclosure. Annamatopeoia and Ice Cool filled the minor places.

General News Comply Or Die trained by David Pipe and ridden by Timmy Murphy to win the 2008 Grand National has died at the age of 17. He was runner-up to 100/1 complete outsider Mon Mome the following year. Rule The World, winner of this year’s Grand National, has also been retired by Michael O’Leary and will see out his days in the Co Westmeath paddocks alongside Cheltenham Gold Cup winner War Of Attrition. Rule The World and this year’s Irish Grand National winner will parade at Kilbeggan tomorrow evening. Co Meath born jockey Jason Maguire, who has been sidelined since a bad fall Musselburgh in February 2015, has announced his retirement. He had suffered life threatening injuries at Stratford on the eve of Cheltenham 12 months earlier.

Maguire won the 2011 Grand National on the Donald McCain trained Ballabriggs and enjoyed many Cheltenham Festival successes. He rode first jockey for owners Paul and Clare Rooney and since his injury he has been acting as their racing manager a role he will continue to fill.

Point to Point View The Fermanagh’s hold a two day meeting in the north at Necarne outside Irvinestown starting tomorrow evening, off at 4.30pm, and on Saturday, off at 2.30pm. On Sunday there are two meetings, one at 2.00pm in Bartlemy Co Cork and at Stradbally in Laois at 2.30pm.

Competition Time Winners of our competition for tickets for Kilbeggan tomorrow evening are Domnick Tobin, Joe Rooney and John O’Brien. Tickets have to be collected in the office in Abbey Street.

by Tom Red Full Court Press and Connor King hold off the challenge of Lord Justice with Ceol Na Nog back in third.

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Des Cahill, Deputy Denis Naughten, Minister of Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources and Dick O’Brien, Chairman of Roscommon Race Committee. Picture: Andrew Fox

Queen Alphabet and Pat Smullen, near side, beat Grey Sky Blue and Chris Hayes.

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday last were Gretchen McDonald, Ray Whelehan and Amanda Scanlon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

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

Enda Hope-ful ahead of Final < DAN DOONER

Ballinasloe Town manager, Enda Concannon, is confident his side can claim Connacht Junior Cup glory this Sunday against Athenry FC in Lecarrow. Pic: Andrew Fox

allinasloe Town

will attempt to win their fourth Connacht Junior Cup this Sunday when they take on Athenry FC in Lecarrow. The Town are used to the big occasion and this will be their third final in four years.They may have to do it without star defender Des Hope however, as he is carrying a knock since last weekend. Manager, Enda Concannon, bemoaned a fixture pile up for exacerbating his side’s current injury problems. “Liam Lynch did his cruciate a couple of weeks ago, Des Hope is carrying a dead leg and is only 50/50 for the weekend. We’re just hoping he comes through. “It’s crazy what’s going on at the moment, it’s killing us. We’re going from game to game with not enough time to recover and no time to prepare. We had seven guys on the physio table the other night, it’s catching up on us. As a junior club it’s hard to play two fixtures a week,” he told the Roscommon People earlier this week. The sheer volume of fixtures has meant that Ballinasloe have rotated recently and this hasn’t helped their efforts to retain the Premier Division. The title will now go to either Moore United or Castlerea Celtic while Ballinsloe are still battling for silverware on two fronts.

Concannon is under no illusions as to what constitutes a good season, however: “People say ‘you’re having a good season’ but what makes a good season or how to judge a season is the amount of trophies you’ve won at the end.” This Sunday, the Town will be looking to avenge the 2012 Connacht Final defeat to the Galway side. Concannon believes it will be tough but has full confidence in his troops: “We’ve watched Athenry, they’re a fairly seasoned side, they’re also a big side. I never try to worry about the opposition too much; we’ll impose our own game. If you spend too much time talking about the opposition it can create a fear. I’m of the belief that if you want to play in the big competitions you have to believe you’ll win it. If our lads play to their best and perform on the day it’ll take a very good team to beat them.” It’s hard to write off Ballinasloe Town even on recent form. The club has the habit of winning and that’s something which may see them over the line against slight favourites Athenry. As Enda Concannon has said: it would take a very good team to beat them this Sunday, and other very good teams have already failed to that in this competition. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town, but it may take more penalty heroics.

This week’s Awards… Game of the Week

thick and fast across the The cup games are coming Skyvalley Rovers served and ted Uni ore Mo and county . ore coming out on top 3-2 up a real cracker with Mo

Team of the Week

r City and Castlerea Celtic. This was between Leiceste due to their fantastic it win The Roscommon side league. It started with a weekend in the cup and the n and ended with a rree 2-1 win away to Ballaghade inasloe Town. Ball wonderful 1-0 win away to

ll of the Week

Worst Stadium Farewe

ues over at West ‘Am bid Those not so loveable rog sday night and they had a Tue on k Par on farewell to Upt process. Firstly they bottled smashing ‘knees up’ in the coach, then they tried m tea ted the Manchester Uni y if that wasn’t enough, the to bottle David De Gea. As hone and drove Tony rop gave Ben Sheppard a mic und the pitch in London aro Cottee and some ex pros taxis.

Soccer Results Thursday, May 5th Premier Division Cup Round 1 Ballaghaderreen FC 1 Castlerea Celtic 2 Moore United 3 Skyvalley Rovers 2 Premier Division Cup Quarter-Final Ballinasloe Town 0 Ballymoe FC 1 Division 1 Cup Round 1 Rahara Rovers 1 Brazukas 11 Division 1 Cup Quarter-Final Shiven Rovers 6 Kilkerrin United 1 Premier Division Cup Quarter-Final Cloonfad United 2 MD Town 3

Saturday, May 7th Division 2 Cup Quarter-Final Moore United B 1 Moylough ’79 2

Sunday, May 8th The Herald Premier Division Ballinasloe Town 0 Castlerea Celtic 1 Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 Brazukas 2 Kilkerrin United 0 Premier Division Cup Quarter-Final Dysart FC 0 St. John’s Athletic 7 Division 1 Cup Quarter-Finals Ahascragh United 2 Ballinasloe Town B 0 Loughglynn United 2 Glen Celtic 5 Division 2 Cup Quarter-Finals MD Town B 4 CP Ajax 1 Lough Harps 2 KC Celtic 0

Dooner’s weekend predictions This is a huge weekend for soccer in Roscommon with the top two in the Premier Division facing off in the cup and Ballinasloe gunning for Connacht Cup glory against Athenry FC. It’s time to look into the crystal ball again as the season reaches a dramatic climax.

Saturday, May 14th The Herald RDFL Cup Semi-Final (7.30 pm) Castlerea Celtic v Shiven Rovers This game will be played at Cloonfad and will be a huge test for Shiven. Celtic are in brilliant form and will be favourites. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic.

Sunday, May 15th Connacht Junior Cup Final (2 pm) Ballinasloe Town v Athenry FC

Lecarrow is the venue as the Galway side visits. We’re completely unbiased here. Prediction: Ballinasloe. Premier Division Cup Semi-Final (11 am) St. John’s Athletic v Ballymoe FC This has ‘cracker’ written all over it. Prediction: Ballymoe. Just. Division 2 Cup Semi-Final (11 am) MD Town B v Lough Harps Very hard to see beyond the Harps. They should win comfortably. Prediction: Lough Harps. Skyvalley Rovers B v Moylough ‘79 This will be an entertaining game and there won’t be much in it. Prediction: Moylough ’79. Castlerea Celtic beat Ballinasloe Town 1-0 last weekend to move within touching distance of the Premier League title.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

Dan’s SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER

Boxing facing weighty issues as Khan KO’d THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner Ok I like Conor McGregor and I admire Amir Khan but weight classes exist for a reason and both men have learned that the hard way recently in Las Vegas. The British boxer was pretty impressive during his Middleweight bout with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez until the Mexican’s brutal right hand knocked Khan clean out, while a few weeks ago McGregor was choked out in his UFC bout with Nate Diaz. Yes there is an element of bravery associated with a fighter wanting to go up through the weight divisions but there is also an element

of ego involved too. Khan could have been seriously hurt as others have been in the past. I understand that all of these fights are set up with pay per view in mind but it won’t be long until a boxer’s life is endangered due to a mismatch. Speaking of a mismatch, Conor McGregor is said to be in training ‘upgrading’ his boxing skills as rumours of a super-fight with boxing legend, Floyd Mayweather Jr, continue to do the rounds. Look, McGregor is a brilliant striker when it comes to UFC and I’m sure I’m one of many people who would like to see Mayweather beaten but this fight would make a mockery of boxing. I like both sports but boxing is the beautiful science and holds a special place in my heart. This fight, if sanc-

Sporting week on Tweet Street Gary Lineker @GaryLineker I can’t breathe. (Coming soon: Gary Lineker in his underpants after Leicester City became champions.)

Robert Huth @robert_huth Going full John Terry today!! #fullkit (The Leicester City defender was determined to get in on the celebrations.)

Anthony Casey @AnthonyCasey3 Made a mistake! Im human! I go to college, work and do everything that every amateur footballer does! Thanks for the support! #alwaysarebel (The Cork U-21 goalkeeper puts the concession of five goals into perspective.)

This weekend in the sporting world Ballinasloe aim for Connacht Gold Amir Khan lies unconscious on the canvas in Las Vegas last Saturday following a brutal knockout against Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez in their Middleweight title fight.

tioned, would be proof that boxing is really struggling to keep pace with UFC and that the promoters have become increasingly desperate. Boxing is going through

some lean times at the moment, as just one look at the current heavyweight champion will confirm. However, allowing fighters to fight at higher weight divisions or

UFC stars to fight champions is not the answer. There are enough good fighters in each weight division, boxing just needs a Conor McGregor of its own.

Ballinasloe Town will hope to add another Connacht Junior Cup title when they face Athenry FC this Sunday at 2 pm in Lecarrow.

Strokestown golfers in HolmPatrick Cup At Strokestown Golf Club this weekend the men play in the Holmpatrick Cup, which will run over Saturday and Sunday.

Wrestling

Golf

No holds barred as Wrestling Club opens

Gannon to the fore in Roscommon

< DAN DOONER

I suppose when most people in Roscommon and indeed Ireland think about wrestling they think spandex, fake tan and body builders who can’t act. Recently, however, I was introduced to a world where fake slaps, steel chairs and ladder matches had no place: the world of Irish amateur wrestling. Roscommon Wrestling Club has been open on the Racecourse Road for the last few months and Club Secretary, Shabir Ahmed, says the club is busy training youngsters throughout

the week. “We train Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 7 pm and 9 pm. Our wrestlers are aged from 5 – 15 years but we can host adults for fitness classes and individual training,” he said. The club focuses on the Greco-Roman style seen in the Olympics and boasts top class coaching from Alex Magramayev from Russia. It’s an ideal sport for youngsters wishing to keep fit and build confidence. In the coming month, Roscommon Wrestling Club will travel to Cavan to take part in a competition against other wrestling clubs and

Shabir has confirmed that Roscommon will play host to a junior competition within the next few weeks. “We are hoping to have a junior competition towards at the end of May or the beginning of June. We will go to Cavan this month and hope to have other clubs come to Roscommon,” he said. Roscommon Wrestling Club is open on the Racecourse Road and Shabir has told me they are always looking for new members. Those wishing to join this new and exciting club can call 087-6199909.

Pictured at Roscommon Wrestling Club recently were (l-r) Shabir Ahmed, Secretary of Roscommon Wrestling Club, Michael McCauley, Chairman of the Irish Amateur Wrestling Association, Alex Magramayev, Roscommon Wrestling Club (Head Coach), Daniel Kennedy, Chairman of the Irish Amateur Wrestling Association and Val Kalatai, Cavan Wrestling Club. Picture: Andrew Fox

Members of Roscommon Wrestling Club pictured with Val Kalatai, Cavan Wrestling Club, Alex Magramayev, Roscommon Wrestling Club (Head Coach), Shabir Ahmed, Secretary of Roscommon Wrestling Club, Daniel Kennedy, Chairman of the Irish Amateur Wrestling Association and Michael McCauley, Chairman of the Irish Amateur Wrestling Association. Picture: Andrew Fox

Ismal and Emils put on an exhibition match during training recently at Roscommon Wrestling Club. Picture: Andrew Fox

It was a mixed weekend weather wise as golfers across the county took to the fairways and greens. In Roscommon, Ian Gannon won the men’s competition with 41 points ahead of Brian Campbell while Bernie Browne took the ladies’ with 36 points, which was matched by second placed Joan Hannon. In Castlerea, the Ladies Gala Open day takes place on Thursday, May 19th. There will be lots of prizes on offer in this 18-hole Stableford competition. For the timesheet contact Mary on 087-7974803. The Open Classic that was due to be held this weekend (May 13th 15th) has been postponed, to be arranged at a later date. Congratulations to the Ladies Junior Foursomes team who defeated Carrick-on- Shannon on Saturday. The Cllr Michael Creaton sponsored men’s competition results are as follows: Winner Padraig Henry, 2nd Liam O’Connell, Cat 1: Peter Hester, Cat 2: Myles Hawkshaw, Cat 3: Bernie O’Connell. Up in Carrick-on-Shannon, Tom Daly won The Murphy Cup with 41 points beating Seamus Sweeney on the count back which went down to the best score on the last hole. Dolores Mulvey won the ladies’ version with 42 points ahead of Attracta O’Connor on 35. Last Sunday in Strokestown the Cecil Ewing team made it to the next round of the competition with a hard fought win over Castle Dargan. The seniors enjoyed golf in the Slieve Russell with Ollie Keenan taking 1st place and Liam Rosemond in second, Paddy Murray completed the top three.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Food for thought for Frankie! In the club football championships last weekend, there were some interesting results. Roscommon Gaels drew first blood as they beat defending champions Clann na nGael in the first ever championship game to be played at Lisnamult. The match, played in a rainstorm, was shaded by the Gaels, but I don’t think Clann will be too worried at this stage. The

respective losses of Cian Connolly to the Gaels and Ultan Harney to Clann cancelled each other out on the night. Padraig Pearses were impressive against St Brigid’s and Frankie Dolan will be worried about the Kiltoom club’s form as he looks ahead to the rest of the championship. They could have done with Frankie himself up front as they looked weak in that

department. Boyle were the easy winners against a Castlerea side who were short a number of players, some of whom were assisting Castlerea Celtic, who are going for the Roscommon & District League Premier Division title. St Faithleach’s, powered by the Murtaghs, were far too good for Elphin, while St Croan’s were superior

to last year’s Intermediate champions, Michael Glavey’s. Strokestown have a strong side on paper but they were stopped in their tracks by an impressive looking Western Gaels side. In the Intermediate Championship there were two games called off because of the hurling. The most impressive winners were Tulsk, who were far too strong for St Dominic’s,

Happy hurlers!

CHAMPIONSHIP

The Roscommon hurlers’ long campaign ended last Saturday in Ballycran – but what a year it has been for them. If you said to manager Justin Campbell and his players last January that they would be promoted in the league and would comfortably retain their Christy Ring Cup status – and give Antrim a scare along the way – they would have been delighted with it. They have done really well. The task now is for Justin to strengthen the panel for next year. Well done to all concerned.

The Leicester City FC fairytale Last Monday night week I was in New York as Leicester City won the Premier League title when Chelsea drew with Spurs. I saw the final half an hour of the London derby, and when the result confirmed Leicester City as champions, the realisation set in that we were witnessing one of the biggest sports stories of our lives – that’s in any sport. Eamonn Sweeney summarised it nicely in the Indo last Sunday. He wrote: “Our children or their children will never see anything like it and our fathers and grandfathers have never seen anything like it either.” It is just astounding that a team like Leicester could go through a nine-month season and finish on top of the table, given the opposition and the money that many of the other clubs have. Yes, Ranieri did a good job as manager, but he failed in most of the jobs he had over this career. Many of the Leicester players were discarded by other (bigger) clubs or they were bought for ‘half nothing’. A weaker club can sneak into an FA Cup final by getting a favourable draw and by perhaps having some luck, but this was no lucky streak. Leicester did it over a 38-game campaign and now it looks like that might win it by at least 10 points, which is staggering.

C r y s t a l B a ll … (It’s summer! It’s championship season!) This weekend the All-Ireland Football Championship activity increases, with four games – three in Leinster and one in Ulster. RTE’s flagship ‘The Sunday Game’ is back this weekend too.

St. Brigid’s manager Frankie Dolan speaking to his management team at half-time. Picture: Andrew Fox

New York: The fall-out The fall-out from the game between Roscommon and New York continues, but the players all had a chance to go back to their clubs last weekend and hopefully the poor display against the exiles will be forgotten about. Leitrim are next on the agenda and while Roscommon’s lacklustre display against New York will have given Leitrim renewed hope, it will quell any excitable talk about Roscommon before that game, which is good. The Roscommon team will have to put the performance in New York down to a bad day out at the office and now move on. The game in Carrick-on-Shannon will not be easy, but it is one that Roscommon are well capable of winning. Having seen New York in the flesh a few

weeks ago I am convinced that the players that I saw on that day in Gaelic Park are capable of winning a game in the Connacht Championship. The only major worry from a Roscommon point of view is that it was the New York team who finished the stronger side and it was they who looked fittest. That flies in the face of what usually happens in these fixtures. However I am confident that the Roscommon team will bounce back in Carrick-onShannon and a good championship win will banish the New York game to the dustbin of history. The match apart, the huge Roscommon contingent really enjoyed their weekend stateside and everyone got back safe and sound – eventually!

Connacht Rugby – marching on Connacht Rugby goes from strength to strength. The win against Glasgow last weekend was another great season highlight. Now let’s hope that they can take advantage of the home semi-final draw to get to the PRO12 final. It would be some

and they look on course for a fourth final in a row at this grade. It’s a terrible pity that there will not be any more championship action for at least six weeks (except for the two games outstanding in the IFC). It must be very frustrating for clubs to be training for a championship game one weekend and then nothing for six more weeks.

achievement. To hear the experts gushing about the Connacht style of play is fantastic and Pat Lam deserves huge praise for what he has achieved since he arrived in the West. On Monday, Bundee Aki, the Connacht

winger, was named as the Pro12 player of the year and there were seven Connacht players named on the team of the year, including Roscommon native Denis Buckley at prop. Surely his Irish debut is not far off now. It has been a wonderful season for him.

Leinster SFC Laois v Wicklow (on Saturday in Portlaoise) This local derby has been very hard-fought in the past, with several controversial incidents throughout the years. Wicklow have regressed in the past few years, and while Laois are no great shakes either, they have players like Donie Kingston who can make the difference. Prediction: Laois.

Louth v Carlow (Saturday evening in Portlaoise) Not the most exciting of prospects here. Carlow are struggling badly, so I presume that Louth will be expected to win. Neither will go too far in the championship though. Prediction: Louth.

Offaly v Longford (on Sunday in Tullamore) This should be a lively encounter. Offaly are on a bit of a roll – having won Division Four – but they are not a coming force or anything like that. Longford seem to be in a bit of turmoil after manager Denis Connerton threatened to resign over club fixtures recently. Longford have some nice young players but I am going to give a hesitant vote to Offaly to win it by a point or two. Prediction: Offaly.

Ulster SFC Fermanagh v Antrim (on Sunday in Brewster Park) Roscommon fans will remember the nightmare that they endured in Enniskillen last year and a similar fate potentially awaits Antrim in this Ulster opener at the same venue. Fermanagh are not great, but under Pete McGrath they are difficult to beat at home, and they should have enough to overcome what looks like a very ordinary Antrim team. Prediction: Fermanagh.

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016

SportsPeople

PEARSES LAY < SEAMUS DUKE

Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC Padraig Pearses 0-14 St Brigid’s 0-9 (Group A)

Padraig Pearses were full value for their five-point win in this opening round championship encounter played in glorious weather conditions at Pairc an Piarsaigh on Sunday last. This was the first time in many years that Pearses beat Brigid’s in the championship and it was an excellent start to the campaign for them. In contrast, Frankie Dolan’s first game in charge of St Brigid’s saw them struggle for long periods, notably up front, and without Senan and Ian Kilbride and Ronan Stack they will have to step up their performance considerably in the coming rounds of the championship if they want to make an impact. A strong breeze blew direct downfield and assisted Pearses in the opening half and with 25 minutes gone Brigid’s were coping well

with the home side and the scores were locked at 0-3 apiece. Then Pearses came alive in the final five minutes of the half and knocked over four points without reply from Niall Daly (2), Hubert Darcy and Seanie Fahy to go in at the break 0-7 to 0-3 ahead. With Garvan Dolan having a great game at midfield, Brigid’s dominated the third quarter and by the 49th minute the gap was down to a point (0-9 to 0-8), with Dolan having scored three long-range points from play. But, with Davy Murray and Niall Daly outstanding, the home side finished by far the stronger. Points from Emmett Kelly (3), Hubert Darcy and Seanie Fahy saw Shane Curran’s men pull away to win easily in the end. It was a game that was fractious and bad-tempered at times, and county players Niall Carty (black card) and Cathal McHugh (red) were both sent to the line by referee Vivian Hardiman. Best for Pearses were

Davy Murray, Eamon Donoghue, Niall Daly, Hubert Darcy and Emmet Kelly, while for Brigid’s, Brian Stack, Garvan Dolan and Karol Mannion were most prominent. Padraig Pearses: A McManus; M Richardson, N Carty, A Butler; S Carty (0-1), D Murray (0-1), C Daly (0-1); N Daly (0-2), E Donoghue; T Butler, H Darcy (0-2), R Daly; E Kelly (0-3, 1 free), A Mannion, S Fahy (0-3, 1 free). Subs: C Kelly (0-1) for Carty (black card), Conor Payne for Mannion. St Brigid’s: S Mannion; D Nestor, D Donnelly, J Murray; D Sheehy, D Dolan, N McInerney; G Dolan (03), M Daly; N Grehan, K Mannion, D Cunniffe; J McDonnell (0-1, free), C McHugh (0-4, 2 frees), B Stack. Subs: M Nolan for Nestor, E Sheehy (0-1) for D Sheehy, J Cunningham for Cunniffe, C McNiece for Donnelly. Referee: Vivian Hardiman.

Man of the Match: Davy Murray.

St. Brigid’s v Padraig Pearses: Hubert Darcy evades the challenge of Karol Mannion. Picture: Andrew Fox

Boyle are best! Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC Boyle 1-12 Castlerea St Kevin’s 1-7 (Group A)

Boyle were far too strong for an understrength Castlerea side at Abbey Park on Sunday. The first half was a very poor affair and after 15 minutes only two points had been scored, both of them frees from Ger Heneghan. But once the home side found their rhythm they quickly equalised, through points from Colin Goldrick and a Donie Smith free. Two further points and a welltaken goal from Conor Flanagan in the 27th minute helped Boyle to a handsome 1-6 to 0-2 lead at half-time. A couple of early points for Castlerea suggested a comeback might be on the cards, but Boyle responded with points from Darren O’Connor, Tadhg Lowe and Jim Suffin, and by the three-quarters mark the home side were eight points ahead. Castlerea scored 1-2 in quick succession to put some respectability on the scoreboard. These scores came from frees from Chris Dineen and a converted penalty from Ger Heneghan (in the 50th minute). However, points from Michael Hanmore and a Donie Smith free ensured that Boyle opened their campaign with a good win. Best for Boyle were Tadhg McKenna, Donie Smith, Conor Gilmartin and Conor Flanagan, while for a disappointing Castlerea, Fintan Kelly, Chris Dineen and Ger Heneghan were most prominent. Boyle: T Lowe (0-1, free); A Sharkey, K Cox, C Beirne; M Hanmore (0-1), C McGowan, T McKenna; Kieran Cox, J Suffin (0-1); C Flanagan (1-1), D Callaghan, G Gilmartin (0-1); C Goldrick (0-2, frees), D Smith (0-4, 2 frees), D O’Connor (0-1). Subs: R Hanmore for Suffin, M O’Connor for Kieran Cox (black card), C Beirne for Gilmartin. Castlerea St Kevin’s: G Claffey; E Creighton, N Collins, G McElhone; D Creighton, D Quinn, N Connaughton; F Kelly, R Raftery; S Ryan, C Casey, J Henry; C Dineen (0-3, all frees), P O’Connor, G

St. Brigid’s manager Frankie Dolan pictured on the sideline in Woodmount. Picture: Andrew Fox

Heneghan (1-4, penalty, four frees). Subs: T Callaghan for Connaughton, E Kenny for Henry, J Keenan for Dineen, L O’Connell for O’Connor. Referee: Paul Daly.

Derek denies Strokestown Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC Western Gaels 1-13 Strokestown 0-8 (Group B)

Western Gaels got off to a great start with a fullymerited win against a disappointing Strokestown side in Elphin in poor weather conditions on Saturday night last. Western Gaels dominated the exchanges from the start and it laid the foundations for a

deserved win. Strokestown led early on, but the Gaels soon assumed control, and with Seanie McDermott playing well in defence, the scores began to flow. Points from Niall Higgins (2), Seanie McDermott, Oisin Ward, Derek Moran (2) and Cathal Cregg helped the Frenchpark side to a 0-7 to 0-3 lead after 23 minutes. Strokestown points (2) from Colin Compton reduced the margin to two by the interval. Then Strokestown reduced the margin to a single point on the resumption when Colin Compton scored another free. The exchanges were close until the vital goal came in the 45th minute when Derek Moran finished off a fine team move and the game was over as a contest after that. Best for Western Gaels

were Seanie McDermott, Derek Moran, Cathal Cregg and James McDonnell, while for Strokestown, Colin Compton, Sean Mullooly and Paddy Brogan were most prominent. Western Gaels: P Cummins; S Conry, B Cafferky, C Casserly; A Dowd (0-1), S McDermott (01), O Ward; N Murray, J Duffy; J McDonnell (0-1), N Higgins (0-2), D Ward; D McGarry, C Cregg (04), D Moran (1-4). Strokestown: J McHugh; I Rogers, S Mullooly, D Molloy; D Neary, K Beirne, R Molloy; S Collins, D Rogers; M Hagan, P Brogan, E Molloy; K Finn (0-2), C Compton (0-6, 4 frees), T Corcoran. Subs: L Kelly for I Rogers (black card), K Murphy for Molloy, R Molloy for Brogan (black card). Referee: Paddy Neilan.

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DOWN MARKER Croan’s in a canter Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC St Croan’s 0-13 Michael Glavey’s 1-3 (Group B)

St Croan’s showed a clean pair of heels to intermediate champions Michael Glavey’s in this first-round game played in torrential rain and strong winds at O’Rourke Park on Saturday night last. There was only a point between the teams at half-time but Croan’s were far the better side after the break and they pulled away to win easily. Glavey’s struck for a fisted goal through Caoileann Fitzmaurice in the 5th minute and points from Andrew Glennon (one a sideline kick) gave them hope. Points for the home side from Kevin Smyth (2) and Cathal Connelly (2) saw them in touch at the break despite the fact that they missed a penalty in the 27th minute, when Keith Keenan blazed the spot-kick wide. Points in the second pe-

riod from Cathal Connelly (2), Brian Mullin, Keith Muldoon (2) and Thomas Mockler saw Croan’s home with Glavey’s only managing one second-half point. James Connaughton, Cathal Connelly, Thomas Mockler and Robbie Keenan played well for Croan’s, while Andrew Glennon, Gerry Fagan and Gary Patterson were best for Glavey’s. St Croan’s: V Egan; T Mockler (0-1), G Grogan, K Keenan; P Hynes, R Timothy, P Leech; J Connaughton, M Holland; G Connaughton, K Smyth (0-4, 2 frees), R Keenan; C Connelly (0-3), A Brogan, S Smyth. Subs: K Muldoon (0-4, 3 frees) for K Smyth, B Mullin (0-1) for S Smyth, A Hurley for Leech, R Thompson for Egan. Michael Glavey’s: D O’Malley; N Morris, S Markham, D Freyne; L McDermott, G Patterson, J Brennan; J Finan, C Hussey; S Burke, C Fitzmaurice (1-0), S Comer; A Glennon (0-2, 1 free), G Fagan (0-1), S Fagan. Subs: S Burke for McDermott, T Murphy for S Fahan, T Keane for Fit-

zmaurice, C Ruane for Brennan. Referee: Ollie Kelly.

Cregg’s effort struck a post and was cleared. Elphin scored some nice points and reduced the margin to six at one stage but Faithleach’s were too far ahead and they won comfortably in the end. Faithleach’s were best served by the three Murtaghs – Brian, Ciaran and Diarmuid – Darragh Hussey and Cathal Gunn, while for Elphin, Fintan Cregg, Jason Carney and John Collins were prominent. St Faithleach’s: A Manning; B Scally, C Gunn (0-1), M Cox; D Nerney, H Kenny, D Harrison; B Murtagh (0-2), D Murray; K Farrell, C Murtagh (0-5, 3 frees), D Rooney (0-1, ’45); D Murtagh (1-3, 1 free), D Hussey (1-1), A Kenny. Subs: D Foley for A Kenny, J Hussey (0-1) for Cox. Elphin: B Oates; J Carney, C Sweeney, D Cregg; R Beirne (0-1, free), C Brady, S Beirne (0-1, free); S Killoran (0-1), J Collins (02); C Fox, G Cregg (0-1), M McCaffrey; A Murray (0-2), F Cregg (0-3), P O’Connor. Subs: E Tiernan (0-1), for Sweeney, l Mollahan for Fox. Referee: Seamus Regan.

Murtaghs’ magic Hodson Bay Hotel Roscommon SFC St Faithleach’s 2-14 Elphin 0-12 (Group B)

St Faithleach’s were the impressive winners in this entertaining game played in brilliant sunshine and warm conditions at Kilglass. Powered by the Murtagh brothers, Faithleach’s scored two goals within a minute in the opening half and that sowed the seeds of a wellmerited win. In the 13th minute Diarmuid Murtagh blasted home after a ball struck the upright and on the kick-out Diarmuid Murtagh passed to Darragh Hussey who made no mistake from close-range. By the 23rd minute, Faithleach’s led by a whopping eleven points. Elphin were better after the break and they missed a penalty in the 48th minute when Gerry

Rory McManus evades the challenge of Paul Gleeson. Picture: Andrew Fox

BREAKING BALL

Rising Stars Kieran Kilcline (Roscommon Gaels) Hubert Darcy (Padraig Pearses) Tadhg McKenna (Boyle) Cathal Connelly (St Croan’s) Cathal Gunn (St Faithleach’s)

Hot Shots Ger Heneghan 1-4 Derek Moran 1-4 Diarmuid Murtagh 1-3 Colin Compton 0-6 Donie Shine 0-6

People Sport’s SFC Team of the Week 1. Tadhg Lowe

Jack Connaughton

John McManus

5. Tadhg McKenna

6. Seanie McDermott

4. Liam McNeela

7. Davy Murray

8. Garvan Dolan

Kieran Kilcline

10. Niall Higgins

13. Cathal Connelly

Patrick Carty pictured enjoying the action in Woodmount. Picture: Andrew Fox

11. Brian Murtagh

14.

12. Hubert Darcy

15.

Diarmuid Murtagh Derek Moran

Padraig Pearses manager, Shane Curran, makes his way to the dressing room at half-time. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Hurlers bow out of Christy Ring Cup Christy Ring Cup Quarter-Final DOWN

1-14

ROSCOMMON < ROBERT MCCONN

Roscommon hurlers made the long trip to Ballycran on Saturday last to play the Christy Ring quarter-final. The conditions were very tough as the weather was wet and cold and the pitch was unusually hard, which led to a very slippery surface, making it difficult for the players on both sides. The first half was evenly contested with both teams coming to terms with the conditions and their opponents.

1-7 Roscommon’s Jerry Fallon opened the scoring with a free, which was followed by a good point from play by Tomas Seale. Eamon Flanagan and Jerry Fallon levelled the match on four apiece after twenty-five minutes, with good points from play. Cathal Dolan completed Roscommon’s first-half tally of six points and at half-time Down led by just a single point (0-7 to 0-6). Roscommon started the second half brightly when full-forward Jamie Lawlor

broke through the Down defence and kicked the ball – it flew over the bar, but it could just as easily have been a goal. Down then began to get the better of the exchanges and they set up their eventual win by scoring seven points without reply. Roscommon sub Naos Connaughton threw the Rossies a lifeline with a well-taken goal, but this proved too little too late for the gallant visitors. Down then finished the scoring with a late goal from Conor Woods. This left a final score of 1-14 to 1-7 in favour of the home side. Roscommon played well

in this tough encounter but the second long distance away match in a week, and the absence of two key players, Jason Kilkenny and Ronan O’Meara, took its toll. The Roscommon men can be very proud of their efforts in 2016 with their promotion in the league and their retention of their Christy Ring Cup status for 2017. Best for Roscommon were the half-back line of Shane Curley, Micheal Kelly and – in particular – Alan Moore, who put in some great tackles and held that line very well. In the middle of the field, Cathal Dolan and Eamon

Flanagan battled well. Up front, Thomas Featherson, Jamie Lawlor and sub Naos Connaughton were best. Roscommon: Noel Fallon; Ian Delaney, Peter Kellehan, Liam Kilcline; Shane Curley, Micheal Kelly, Alan Moore; Cathal Dolan (0-1), Eamon Flanagan (0-1); Tomas Seale (0-1), Thomas Fetherston, Jerry Fallon (0-2, one free); Cillian Egan, Jamie Lawlor (0-2), Adrian Murphy. Subs used: Gearoid Keenan for Murphy, Conor Mulry for Seale, Naos Connaughton (1-0) for Fallon, Hugh Rooney for Egan, Ciaran Shaw for Lawlor.

Campbell now looking to boost panel < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon hurling manager Justin Campbell is rueing the loss of several key players this year – but can still reflect on a terrific run of form and a very satisfying league and Ring Cup campaign for his charges. Now, he says, the challenge is to build on recent successes and follow in the footsteps of Kerry and Westmeath. Speaking to People Sport, he said: “It has been a long campaign since the start of the year and the loss of Jason Kilkenny and Ronan O’Meara took its toll (last weekend). “We were down seven players from the panel last year and that made it nine, and it was bound to tell sooner or later. But look, the lads have done really well and to be promoted in the

league and to retain our Christy Ring Cup status is real progress. “The task now is to strengthen the panel ahead of next year. It is important that we kick on from here now. If we can maintain our league status, these lads should have no fears of playing in the Christy Ring Cup again next year. “Look at what Kerry and Westmeath have done in the past few years…they should be the benchmark for Roscommon now. “There is plenty of talent here and the lads have put in a huge effort this year. I really enjoyed the season with them” he concluded.

IFC Round-Up

Tulsk have title in their sights again! Mulryan Construction Roscommon IFC round-up Tulsk 2-15 St Domnic’s 0-12 Tulsk, who have been there or thereabouts in the shake-up for the IFC title in each of the last three years, put down an early marker with a comprehensive win against St Dominic’s in this game which was played in a downpour at Ballyleague on Saturday night. It was in the second half that Tulsk pulled away after a well-contested opening period. Jack Conlon struck a great goal for Tulsk in the 23rd minute, but Dominic’s nonetheless led by a point at the break. The vital second goal came with 13 minutes to go when Tadhg O’Rourke’s opportunist finish saw Tulsk pull away to win well. Tulsk: R Fahey; D Donoghue, D O’Rourke, D Raftery; P Scott (0-1), D Jones (0-1), R Galvin; K O’Donoghue (0-1) T O’Rourke (1-0); C Burns, C O’Rourke (0-3), S McCormack (0-4); J Conlon (1-4), R Feeney, D Carleton (0-1). Subs: C Flanagan for Galvin, N O’Connor for Raftery, M Conway for Burns, N Casserly for Carleton, S Murray for O’Rourke. St Dominic’s: M Miley; P Carney, P Fallon, M Byrne; M O’Grady, D Farrell, N Watson; O Milton, E McCormack; M McGloin (0-1), T Gately, B O’Meara; C Fallon (0-6), U Kelly (03), T Hurley (0-1). Subs: S Dervan (01) for Watson, M Finneran for Carney, S Cunninghan for Finneran, R Byrne for O’Meara. Referee: K Naughton.

Padraig Pearses’ Hubert Darcy gathers possession ahead of St. Brigid’s Darragh Donnelly in their senior football championship match last weekend. Picture: Andrew Fox

Clann na nGael 0-15 Shannon Gaels 0-10 A strong second-half display saw the home side overcome last year’s junior

champions Shannon Gaels at Johnstown last Sunday. The opening half was well contested and at the break Clann led by 0-8 to 0-6. But a string of unanswered points from Clann, inspired by an excellent performance from full-forward Ciaran Lennon, in the opening 12 minutes of the second half proved decisive. Clann na nGael: G Mannion; D Egan, B Goode, M Flannery; C Connaughton, S Pettit, P Harney; M Costello (0-2), D McManus; C Bannon (0-2), R Killian, D Connaughton; R Naughton (0-3), C Lennon (0-6), M Shine (0-1). Subs: E Rock (0-1) for Shine, E Pettit for D McManus, G Nicholson for Goode. Shannon Gaels: C Sweeney; K Lynch, M Mulvey, N Lynch; N Leydon, S McDonnell, J Filan; N McDermott, O Viluckis (0-2); M Burke (0-1), F Sweeney, C Lynch (0-1); C Harmon, C Layden (0-3), M McDermott (0-3). Subs: D Marron for C Lynch, C Lynch for Burke, M Burke for McDermott (black card). Referee: D Hunt. St Barry’s 0-12 St Michael’s 0-9 St Barry’s proved too strong for a gallant St Michael’s side at Cootehall last Sunday. A super performance from David Keenan was key for the Tarmonbarry men who led at half-time by 0-6 to 0-4. The second-half exchanges were hard-fought but Barry’s always had their noses in front and they held out for a good opening-round win. St Barry’s: R Mitchell; B Brennan, A Murtagh, S Gannon; J Bennett, R Rogers, T Murtagh; D Keenan (0-1), K Garraghan; J Bennett Junior (0-1), J Murtagh (0-2), R McGowan (0-1); E Conry, F McGowan (0-4), A Callaghan (0-2). Subs: K Cawley (0-1) for Conry, M Guilford for Callaghan, J

McNally for F McGowan. St Michael’s: K O’Hara; K McDermott, M King, S McDermott; T Duignan, N Doherty, M Bruen; K Hogg (01), D McGuinness (0-1); S Gillespie (0-4), S McGuinness, A Moran; P Roche, J Reynolds, D Brady (0-1). Subs: N McDermott for Duignan, N Conlon for Moran, R Cox (0-2) for Doherty, D Conlon for Reynolds. E Duignan for S McGuinness, K Gilboy for N McDermott. Referee: B Beirne. Eire Og 0-13 St Aidan’s 0-9 A very strong first-half showing, at the end of which they led by 0-8 to 0-1, was the foundation on which Eire Og built this hard-fought win in atrocious weather conditions in Ballyforan on Saturday night. Ross Nolan was the star for Eire Og with a string of fine points from play and frees. Aidan’s, with Johnny Coyne in superb form, made a fight of it in the second half, but Eire Og were already too far ahead. Eire Og: C Lavin: J Carty, J Horan, D Creaton; Ciaran Lavin, D Barron, P Loftus (0-1); P Freeman (0-1), T Greene; A McLoughlin, B Nolan (01), R Melvin (0-2); F Nolan, R Nolan (0-7), L Creaton (0-1). Subs: S Quinn for Melvin, L Keenan for Creaton, S Quinn for McLoughlin. St Aidan’s: M Kenny; D Kelly, S Beirne, B Coyle; M Donoghue, K Waldron, A Higgins; J Donnelly, P Higgins; P Neary (0-1), E Fallon, J Conroy; J Coyne (0-4), N Corbett (0-1), F Coyne (0-2). Subs: G Kelly for Donoghue, J Kiernan (0-1) for P Higgins. Referee: A Clogher. Note: The games between Oran and Kilmore and Fuerty and Kilbride were postponed.

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Roscommon Gaels to host Monster Auction On Saturday, the 21st of May the Roscommon Gaels GAA Club will be holding a Monster Auction at the Hyde Centre. Businesses and members of the club and community have been very generous giving

some excellent lots for the auction. Members of the public can view these lots on the morning of the 21st of May from 10 am; the auction starts at 12 pm. The club is accepting any un-

wanted quality items that can be sold on the day. Anybody who wishes to view the lots prior to this date or wish to contribute to the auction can visit the club website www.roscommongaels.gaa.ie

Pictured at the launch of the Roscommon Gaels Monster Auction in The Central Bar were Micheál Gleeson, Ger O’Connor, Carmel Harlow, Seamie Carthy, Teresa Hession and Peter Mullen. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roving Rossie: ’I’m no fair weather fan!’ I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I’m never trusting that shower at the Met Office ever again! Looking forward to a ‘heatwave’, I threw the cargo shorts and a pair of shades on to go watch Roscommon Gaels and Clann na nGael in Lisnamult last Saturday. Bit

THE

ROVING ROSSIE

(He’s our man on the ground – and he’s always right!)

Brolly good show: The (very wet) scene at Lisnamult last Saturday evening (see report on page 39).

of an occasion and all, with it being the county town team at their fine new facilities and up against last year’s champions. To be honest it took me a while to figure out what was going on in the first half. Clann togged out in blue while the Gaels were wearing purple – and I forgot to take off the shades. It was an enjoyable game

but the weather conditions didn't help and the home side just, ahem, shaded it. I wasn't taking any chances with the weather forecast on Sunday so imagine my embarrassment when I arrived at Pairc an Phiarsaigh wearing a pair of waders! It was like an episode of Celebrity Bainisteoir with Shane Curran and Frankie Dolan on opposing benches. As for the weather, it was great. My choice of clothing almost landed me a job as umpire, but I slipped away to the toilet in the nick of time. Another entertaining game but Pearses look determined to make up for last year’s final defeat and ran out 5-point winners. It’s great to have the club championship back but I can’t take many more wardrobe malfunctions like last weekend. Enjoyed a post-game pint with a friend of Padraig Pearses persuasion, he reckons they’ll go all the way this year. I asked him what he was basing this prediction on. “Well,” he said, “Clann beaten last night and sure we were fairly flying today!” I nodded and politely reminded him how important it was to drink plenty of fluids and keep the oul noggin covered during these heatwaves. He nodded solemnly and said: “You’re absolutely right! It’s your round.”

Roscommon People Friday 13 May 2016