2016 09 02 by Roscommon People

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

www.roscommonpeople.ie www.roscommonpeople.ie ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON

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Tel. (090) 66 34633 Fax: (090) 66 34303 02 September 2016

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 492

DON’T FORGET .... Elphin Industrial & Agricultural Show this weekend Tommie KElly Electrical

NEW BEGINNINGS…

Athleague, Roscommon 090 6663385

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

ROSCOMMON TOWN 090 6634465

KITCHEN APPLIANCE PACKAGE DEALS

September Special Offer

BATHROOM WALL & FLOOR TILES FROM €7.99 PER SQ. YARD

Roisín, Kirsty and Fanni pictured during their first day at Scoil Mhuire Convent Primary School. Picture: Andrew Fox

Byrne Carolan Cunningham

LANESBORO RD., ROSCOMMON Call for more details

-----Solicitors----T: 090 64 78433 Please see our Column on Page 2 AND Advert INSIDE

Hanna and Maria pictured during their first day at Scoil Mhuire Convent Primary School. Picture: Andrew Fox

Luke ‘Ming’ FLANAGAN MEP

WARD BROS QUARRY

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

SUPPLIERS OF ALL TYPES OF:

TEL. 094-9622710 / 094 9622244 MOBILE: 086 3685680 Standing up for the small farmer on CAP

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

Finn Electrical

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

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Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573 Back to School / College?

McGUINNESS PHARMACY

Laptop Package Deals available

Main Street, Roscommon T. 090 66 26193 F. 090 66 28789

Michael Fitzmaurice TD Please ring the Constituency Office in advance to make an appointment Tel: 090 66 28479 or email michael.fitzmaurice @oireachtas.ie

• Stone • Sand & Gravel • Topsoil • Readymix • Plant Hire

Sophie Fox Santos pictured enjoying her first day at Scoil Mhuire Convent Primary School. Picture: Andrew Fox

ROSCOMMON

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Lanesboro Road, ROSCOMMON

Open 7 days a week Petrol / Diesel 24HR Diesel Pump Home Heating Oil Agri Diesel

Birthday Parties available to suit all budgets Call 090 66 34372 or 086 3861853

QUIT SMOKING IN 2016 One Session Smoking Cessation Therapy €90

FOR KEENEST QUOTES CALL

CALL BILLY 094 965 9966 086 067 5433

071 96 33222 E: wardbrosltd@gmail.com

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CASEY’S FRANCES’ FINISHING ROSCOMMON Flooring/ TOUCHES The Square, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626270 Furniture

New Ladies Designer Fragrance

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Home Heating Oil (on pump) is

55.9 c p/ltr. Green Diesel

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f New selection o Wool Half Price

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TEL: (090) 66 65998 WEB: www.gfurniture.ie

FREE GIFT with Purchase

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

Share a Coffee for Hospice

ROSCOMMON

Painting Services Professional Painters & Decorators

This September, Roscommon/Mayo Hospice are asking you to host a coffee morning for your friends,

family, work colleagues or customers. Mark Thursday 15th of September into your diary for Ireland’s big-

gest coffee morning. And if that doesn’t suit, choose a date that works best for you. All donations will go

Stephen Reynolds (086) 1987023 Enda Hoban (087) 2739726

Yoga Classes CLASSES COMMENCE

Tuesday 6th September in The Quad Centre, Roscommon Beginners - 6.45pm • Intermediates - 8pm Course Duration: 7 weeks TO BOOK YOUR PLACE, CALL 086 1598295

ANNA MARIA CARROLL - Yoga Teacher - Holistic Therapist www.oldschool holistictherapies.ie

You are warmly invited to come and listen to thoughts shared from the Bible in in HANNON’S HOTEL, Roscommon Town Recommencing this Sunday 4th September at 7pm (weekly talks every Sunday) We simply wish to convey the teachings of Jesus Talks are free; hymn singing included and everyone is very welcome

Contact: 086 8489244

Roscommon HAC annual Church Gate Collection Roscommon Hospital Action Committee will hold its annual Church Gate Collection in the Roscommon District area at local churches on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th September.

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

Henry Schwab

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

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

ON YER COFFEE TRIKE! Clare manager Davy Fitzgerald and Mario Rosenstock saddle up for Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice 2016.Pic: Marc O’Sullivan

Did you know that 27 people die of heart attacks in Ireland every day? Heartwave Cardio Screening back in Athlone Heartwave Cardio Screening is returning to Athlone with the revolutionary Bpro pulse wave analysis device, providing affordable and accurate heart and artery screenings. The Bpro and A-Pulse Casp has been developed by Healthstats in Singapore and can calculate a person’s central aortic systolic pressure (CASP) (blood pressure closest to the heart) accurately and non-invasively. The A-Pulse has been validated in clinical trials to have an accuracy of 99.17%, as compared to the angiogram. The BPro Cardio Pulse-Wave screening measures the aortic pressure as well as the flexibility of your arteries. Screenings are carried out by a health stats

certified technician and a full printout of the results are given on the day which can be brought back to your own GP or cardiologist if necessary. The procedure is non-invasive and completely pain-free. The cost of an individual BPro test is €50 per adult with a 10% discount (€90) for a couple. There is also a 20% discount for groups of 12 or more people. Heartfelt Cardio Screening will bring the Bpro to the Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone on Tuesday 6th and 20th September. Appointments are essential and are available from 10.45 am until late. For further information or to make an appointment, please contact: Anna on 086-4135555 or Jimmy on 0862566422. Email: heartfeltcardioscreening@gmail.com or check out the website: bproheartfeltcardioscreening. com. (Advertorial).

HEARTFELT CARDIO SCREENING BY BPRO About Heartfelt Cardio Screening

Can Save Your Life

Screening is non invasive and is 99.17% as accurate as an angiogram. This device also tests the stiffness of the arteries, (as we get older our arteries get stiff with a build-up of plaque and cholesterol which can prevent the blood from flowing freely). The Screening tests your heart, your arteries and blood pressure, giving you your overall heart health. Tuesday 6th September - Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone Tuesday 20th September - Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone TIME: 10.45am until LATE COST: €50 per person or €90 per couple

To book an appointment or for further information call Anna on 086 413 5555 or Jimmy on 086 2566 422 email: heartfeltcardioscreening@gmail.com Web: www.bproheartfeltcardioscreening.com

directly to providing local palliative care services. The palliative care service enables patients to live life to the full in comfort and dignity. Thanks to the support of the people in our community we can continue to provide this service free of charge. Roscommon/Mayo Hospice are appealing to help make this the biggest and best Coffee Morning ever. “Last year the event raised almost €80,000 for local palliative care services in counties Mayo and Roscommon which helped patients and families in our communities who needed support. Coffee Morning is a social and interactive event, which can brighten up a day for people while making an

invaluable and comforting difference in people’s lives. This year we are again appealing to businesses and individuals to take on the commitment of hosting a coffee morning for two or three hours and contribute to raising funds for our friends and neighbours who need to use the services of their local palliative care” explained fundraising manager with Hospice, Laurita Blewitt. The national coffee morning is supported by Bewleys so we will send you your free coffee pack along with all the relevant information. Your support and kind generosity would be most appreciated. For more information contact 094 93 88666 or email info@hospice.ie

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

TURBARY RIGHTS My solicitor told me that turbary rights attach to my home but I am not sure what that means. I understand that it relates to a right to cut turf but I am not sure of its exact meaning? If I sell my home will I lose these turbary rights or can I bring them with me? Please advise. A right of turbary (or more correctly called a ‘ common of turbary’ ) refers to the right to dig , cut and take away turf from another person’s land in common with others to use as fuel for one’s house. This right to take turf for fuel attaches to the dwelinghouse (attaches to the chimney) and does not attach to the lands. The right of turbary cannot be severed from the dwellinghouse. If some of the lands on which the right of turbary attaches are sold, the turbary right will remain attached to the portion of lands on which the dwellinghouse is situate and will not attach to the remaining sold lands which were severed from the dwellinhouse. If the dwellinghouse is replaced by another dwellinghouse on the same lands in continuance of the older dwellinghouse the right of turbary automatically attaches to the new dwellinghouse. Turbary rights are limited to the fuel requirements of the dwellinghouse and do not extend to a right to cut and sell turf. This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

IRELAND’S BEST YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR

Your Local Enterprise Office is looking for Ireland’s best young entrepreneurs. If you are between 18 and 35 and either have a business idea or have started a business, why not enter this competition for a chance to win part of the 2 million euro investment fund? CATEGORIES

WHAT IS IT? Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur is open to anybody between 18 and 35 with an idea/ commercial venture for a start-up or existing business. It doesn’t matter what you want to do, or what educational background you have all that matters is that you have a good business idea that works. WHERE DO I FIT IN? This competition is open to all sectors, structured at county and regional levels, which culminate in a national final. SO HOW DO I APPLY? Applying is simple. There is a 2 million euro investment fund and targeted business supports on offer to help you turn your business idea into a reality. Each Local Enterprise Office has an investment fund of €50,000, with an overall national winners fund of €100,000.

This national competition aims to find Ireland’s best young entrepreneur. This initiative is an integral part of the Action Plan for Jobs 2015-2017 roll out plan. It is organised by the network of Local Enterprise Offices across the country. Local Enterprise Offices are the First Stop Shop for anyone seeking information and support on starting or growing a business in Ireland.

BEST BUSINESS IDEA

BEST START-UP BUSINESS

BEST ESTABLISHED BUSINESS

Pre Trading - €10k prize fund

Up to 36 months - €20k prize fund

Over 36 months - €20k prize fund

ENTER NOW You can apply online at www.localenterprise.ie/roscommon or www.ibye.ie. Closing date for applications is 14th of October 2016. www.ibye.ie

www.localenterprise.ie/roscommon

or CONTACT Local Enterprise Oﬃce Roscommon Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon

https://www.localenterprise.ie/roscommon email: localenterprise@roscommoncoco.ie or phone 090 6626263/090 6637100

Roscommon

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

200 new jobs announced at Carrick-on-Shannon plant

Ruth and Aisling Moran, Ballintubber, pictured at Roscommon Show. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

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

Stocking

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

PHYSICAL THERAPIST is instore EVERY Wednesday & Friday

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

Give Louis a call to discuss your needs or queries

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough & Galway

Tel: 090 647 8433 * MOTOR ACCIDENTS

r ee ouour SSee Column olumn oinn cBusiness ge 2 pa

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

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

VistaMed, the leading Irish catheter and extrusion provider to the global medical device industry, this week announced the creation of 200 new jobs at the official opening of its new stateof-the-art Research and Development facility in Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim. The announcement is part of a new investment programme of more than €10 million, supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation through Enterprise Ireland. This will bring the total number of jobs at the medical device company to 525 comprising a mix of positions, from engineering staff to product builders. VistaMed is also expanding its current manufacturing facility in Carrick-onShannon, Co. Leitrim by a further 45,000 square foot. Recruitment for the 200 positions is ongoing with 37 of these jobs now in

Pictured at the official opening of VistaMed’s new state-of-the-art Research and Development facility were, l-r: Tom Kelly, Enterprise Ireland; Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD; Patrick Mulholland, Managing Director, VistaMed.

place. All positions are expected to be filled by the end of 2018. Welcoming the announcement in Co. Leitrim, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mary Mitchell O’Connor TD said: “Today we see the evidence that a rural

county such as Leitrim can be home to successful international companies like VistaMed and can provide them with the community, infrastructure and resources that they need to thrive and grow their businesses. “To announce 200 jobs

for an Irish-owned, highly innovative, global supplier of medical technology out of County Leitrim, sums up why we can be ambitious – indeed, must be ambitious – in our plan for regional development and job creation. This is a further sign of a momen-

tum for job creation in our regions following recent regional jobs announcements.” The new investment programme is in response to increased demand in the global medical device market for services provided by VistaMed.

Positive political reaction, call for bias towards rural Ireland < PAUL HEALY

Senator Frank Feighan said that the creation of a further 200 new jobs at VistaMed in Carrick-onShannon is a major endorsement for the pool of talent which exists in Leitrim and the surrounding region. “This significant jobs boost is clear evidence that counties like Leitrim have the skilled talent and infrastructure to attract major international companies. “This announcement has given another huge vote of confidence to the community of Carrick-on-Shannon and Rooskey where its other plant is located. This jobs boost follows on from another major jobs announcement made by the company only two years ago.” Senator Maura Hopkins said: “The announcement is fantastic news for County Leitrim and North County Roscommon and the surrounding areas as it will attract many

young professionals back to this region. “Minister Mitchell O’Connor has visited the region numerous times since her appointment, demonstrating her strong commitment to the future growth and development of this region.” Senator Hopkins concluded: “This announce-

ment is a welcome boost for Carrick-on-Shannon and the surrounding region which has gone through a difficult period in recent times after suffering many jobs losses. These new jobs will provide a great boost for the economic life of the area.” Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice welcomed the news

and said the company’s commitment to this rural part of Ireland is admirable and the new jobs will provide a huge economic boost to the region. “In the context of this announcement I would urge the Government under the auspices of Enterprise Ireland and the IDA to positively discriminate in

favour of rural Ireland and the West in particular when sourcing suitable sites for companies who are willing to invest in Ireland and create employment. The experience of VistaMed shows that jobs can be created in rural areas and that a well educated and skillful workforce is readily available.”

Pictured at this week’s announcement of 200 jobs at the Medical Devices company in Carrick-on-Shannon, were (l-r): Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Mary Mitchell O’Connor; VistaMed MD Patrick Mulholland; Tom Kelly, Enterprise Ireland and public representatives including Deputy Martin Kenny and Senators Frank Feighan and Maura Hopkins.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

Advertorial

Abbey Hotel to unveil magniﬁcent new ballroom!

Gail, Anne, Bernie, Ann Marie, Lorraine and Georgina would like thank everyone who supported their Annual Tea/Coffee Morning held recently in the Glenamaddy Community Centre in aid of Galway Hospice, €4,540.42 was raised, Last Monday Ann Marie Kearns and Bridgie Comer presented Joanne Tierney of Galway Hospice with the cheque.

Body of Athlone-based soldier recovered A body found off the coast of Donegal on Monday has been identified as that of missing soldier Gavin Carey, who had been missing for almost a week. It is understood that he got into difficulty while out swimming with other soldiers off Tullan Strand, near Bundoran. Corporal Gavin, who was from Mullingar, had been based in Athlone. He was in the area to take part in training at Finner Camp in Ballyshannon. Two other members of the Defence Forces who were swimming at the beach were rescued. The search operation involved members of the Defence Forces, the army diving team, members of

the Coast Guard, RNLI, Donegal Mountain Rescue and a rescue helicopter. The Coast Guard has offered its sympathies to the Carey family and to the Defence Forces. The Lough Ree Sub Aqua Search & Rescue Unit was called upon to assist in the search in Bundoran. This was the third search the club assisted in during the past five weeks. In a statement, the Lough Ree Unit said: “Sincere thanks to the Roscommon, Mullingar and Longford Units for their assistance on all these searches. The club extends its most sincere condolences to all the families concerned.”

The Abbey Hotel, Roscommon will unveil it’s magnificent newly refurbished ballroom at it’s Wedding Showcase on Sunday, September 11th. All recently engaged couples are invited to attend this FREE event from 2-6 p.m with a complimentary glass of wine and refreshments served on the day. A 10% discount off wedding packages as well as attractive wedding supplier discounts will be available when you book your wedding with a member of their wedding team on the day. The Grealy Family and Wedding Co-Ordinator Aishling McConn will be on hand to meet and discuss all your wedding day queries. “Our wedding showcase will give us the opportunity to unveil the magnificent newly refurbished ballroom and to wow ‘brides-to-be’ with the stunning new decor. Along with the attractive 10% discount we will also have a draw for some fantastic giveaways for couples who book their wedding, including two free Boutique-style wedding photography albums thanks to Boutique Photography, Dublin, Bridal makeovers thanks to Beautician, Megan Durkan, and a free Bridal Teeth-Whitening treatment thanks to Midland Mobile Tooth Whitening Clinic. All couples will enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and nibbles on arrival and have an opportunity to see the beautiful bridal suite and stunning refurbished ballroom in all its splendour,” said Geraldine Grealy, Marketing and Public Relations Manager at the Abbey. Watch the Abbey Hotel FB page for additional giveaways and competitions. “The recently refurbished ballroom at the Abbey Hotel boasts magnificent new decor including luxurious new carpets, contemporary aspect furniture, breathtaking new ceiling chandeliers and a state-of-the art LED lighting system. The hotel can accommodate every

wedding ceremony from small intimate gatherings to larger, more formal celebrations catering for up to 350 guests,” explained Anya Grealy, proprietor. The Abbey Hotel is a fully licensed civil ceremony venue with the luxurious Fortfield Suite available to couples free of charge for their day when they make a booking. The 4* Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, hosting weddings and events of distinction since 1963. Tel 090-6626240.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

Pictured in Eddie’s Bar, Ballymoe on Saturday night last were Bernard Flanagan, Frances Hardiman and Daniel McDermott. Picture: Andrew Fox

O’Dowd’s Fireplaces and Stoves set to host Shannonside Radio GREAT FOUR-DAY SALE! O’Dowd’s Fireplace, Stove and Gas Fire Centre will have Shannonside Radio broadcast live from their showroom at Station Road, Carrick-onShannon on Friday, 9th of September as part of a huge promotional weekend. David O’Dowd expects a great reaction to the buzz of having the radio station on site and invites everyone along. The Sale starts on Thursday, 8th of September for four days, finishing on Sunday the 11th. There will be expert advice for

customers and bargains galore over the four days. This is the time of year when evenings get colder and shorter and a nice stove and fireplace make it enjoyable to sit in. O’Dowd’s awardwinning showroom will launch this season’s new models which include stoves, gas and electric fires which are suitable for the newer air tight homes as well as the regular models. Make your way to O’Dowd’s over the weekend of the 8th-11th of September and grab some of the bargains instore.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

39 annual Elphin Show is this Saturday The 39th annual Elphin Agricultural Show will be held this Saturday, September 3rd, in the town’s mart. A massive €35,000 in prize-money will be up for grabs at the show and there will be a number of All-Ireland titles competed for on the day. Highlights include the 2016 All-Ireland Pedigree Charolais Baby Calf Championship (€1,500), Continental Male/Female Calf (€1,500), All-Ireland Duck or Drake, All-Ireland Male and Female Puppy, All-Ireland Jack Russell and All-Ireland Treacle Bread competitions. There will also be the annual raffle with first prize of a weanling heifer or €500. The official opening of the show will be performed at 12 noon by Macra na Feirme President and Roscommon native Sean Finan, followed by a host of classes in cattle, sheep, horses, ponies, donkeys and goats – there will also be contests for pets, cats and dogs. There will be a number of more light-hearted competitions such as Bonny Baby, Fancy Dress, Most Glamorous Granny, Most Appropriately Dressed Lady and Best Dressed Gentleman. To add to the enjoyment, there will be plenty of entertainment for young children throughout the day with DJ Scruffy Duffy and his cartoon characters.

live happy! with

Slimming World Every Thursday 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Hannon’s Hotel, Athlone Road, Roscommon Call Tracy: 087 6567059 Every Thursday 5.30pm & 7.30pm St. Joseph’s School, Boyle Call Mary: 087 2376348 Every Wednesday 5.30pm & 7.30pm O’Rourke GAA Centre, Castlerea Call Tracy: 087 6567059 slimmingworld.ie

Pictured at the launch of the Elphin Agricultural Show were David Hynes, John Collins and Seán Lennon. Picture: Elphin Agricultural Show

The day’s activities will conclude with the Show Dance in An Bothar Rua, Elphin, at

10 pm. At the dance, the Show Queen will be selected where current Queen Sabrina Regan

will hand over her tiara. This is a very generous cash prize of €500 for the winner.

01 656 96 96

Irish Water ‘must work’ with Glenamaddy residents Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice has called on Irish Water to work closely with residents following news that funding is now in place to proceed with an upgrade of the Glenamaddy Sewage Scheme. In a press statement, he said: “Irish Water has emailed local public representatives to inform them that funding is now in place for an upgrade to the Glenamaddy Sewage Scheme. I have been working hard on this issue for many years and this work needs to be completed as soon as possible. “One thing that is very important

is that Irish Water liaises with the residents in the area where the proposed site will be. I know that Irish Water have looked at five or six different possible sites. “The residents locally will have to be made aware of what type of construction will be taking place and what type of a plant that it will be. The way forward in a case like this is to work with the people of the local community and not carry out any work without consultation in the first place. I will continue to monitor this situation.”

SEAN DOYLE & SONS Pictured at the launch of the Elphin Agricultural Show were John O’Connor, Kenneth Cox, Gerry Beirne and TJ McDermott. Picture: Elphin Agricultural Show

rs Over 35 Yea s es n si u B in ESTABLISHED 1978

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• Removal of old Windows and Doors • C2 Compliant contact us to avail of the Home Renovation Incentive Scheme • All Fitters fully insured • Timber, PVC, Aluclad and Aluminium Windows and Doors • V Welded and Mechanically Welded Frames • Double and Triple Glazed Pictured at the launch of the Elphin Agricultural Show were Sylvia Regan, Carmel Beirne, Sabrina Regan, Queen of the Show, Michelle Shiel and Cllr. Valerie Byrne. Picture: Elphin Agricultural Show

CONTACT 090-6626753 / 01-4626671 • www.seandoylewindows.ie • info@seandoylewindows.ie

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

Fundraising Golf Classic for Haitian orphanage orphanage, now there are 435 children. The orphanage is dependent on fundraising, donations and sponsorship. There is also a special needs programme in the orphanage. “Children born with a developmental difficulty are not looked on favourably in Haiti and are often

A golf fundraising classic is taking place in Mountbellew Golf Club in aid of ‘Our Little Brothers and Sisters’ Orphanage, Kenscoff, Haiti from Thursday, 8th to Saturday, 10th of September. A team of 4 costs €80 and there will be many prizes over the weekend. Last summer there were 360 children in the

abandoned. The orphanage rescues and cares for these children through the special needs programme run by the orphanage,” said Michael Nolan from Ballygar, who spent the summer of 2015 there. For a time-sheet, please contact Mountbellew Golf Club on 090-9679259 or call 087-9695924.

PUBLIC NOTICES

ROSCOMMON LEISURE COMPANY Company Number 407950.

Roscommon Leisure Centre will be

TEMPORARILY CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC from Monday September 5th 2016 until Sunday September 11th 2016 inclusive. This temporary closure is necessary in order to facilitate essential refurbishment and maintenance. Roscommon Leisure Centre regrets this inconvenience to members and the public. Your continued support is much appreciated.

Notice to Construction Contractors

Joe Duffy, hypnotherapist, dream analyist and life skills coach.

How Joe changed direction and began chasing dreams New Beginnings

Roscommon County Council: Request for Applicants to join a Pre-Approved Contractors Register for Construction and Maintenance Works on behalf of the Housing Business Unit.

CARMEL KELLY-PALMER

In order to ensure compliance with the Construction Regulations 2013 and facilitate procurement procedures for construction and maintenance projects, the Housing Business Unit of Roscommon County Council as “Client” wishes to update its register of pre-approved Contractors.

Joe Duffy, hypnotherapist, dream analyist and life skills coach, has found his niche…

Applicants will be required to submit the following items in order to be considered for approval:

• Copy of completed RCC prequalification questionnaire for Project Supervisor Construction Stage (PSCS). • Copy of up to date Safety Statement or Code of Practice with a risk assessment relevant to your works which must be signed by the head of the business. • Copy of Safe Pass cards and CSCS cards where the contractor is operating an Excavator, Dumper or other equipment covered under the 2013 Construction Regulations. • A copy of any applicable statutory test or examination certificates for any equipment used. • Where relevant evidence of membership of a recognised regulatory body for Electrical Contractors in Ireland. Only approved Contractors will be considered for housing construction and maintenance works. For application details please contact The Housing Business, Unit Áras an Chontae, Roscommon County Council. Tel. (090)6637100 or see www.roscommoncoco.ie Derek Caldbeck A/Head of Housing and Finance

ne can tell by listening to Joe Duffy, hypnotherapist, dream analyist and life skills coach, that he has finally found his niche, and is passionate and completely content in following the profession which has become a very central and rewarding part of his daily life. Joe has set up a professional and first class practice at his offices in Cloverhill, Ballaghaderreen – just around the corner from The Square in that town. How and when did Joe decide to follow this particular career path? “The story begins in 1983 when I still suffered from asthma, which I had throughout my childhood. I was using so many medical drugs to stay alive and suppress the symptoms. A medical practitioner suggested I try self-hypnosis and after about two years I managed to wean myself off all medication, greatly improving my general health and wellbeing. “I was fascinated by the results, did some research and decided in 1995 to train with the Institute of Clinical Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy in Cork, where I qualified with a Diploma in both specialities.” In May 2000, Joe set up a Hypnosis Clinic in Ballaghaderreen, giving assistance to individuals who wanted to use self-hypnosis to establish the cause of their inner problems.

For many years now, Joe has facilitated courses (sponsored by Roscommon VEC) to try to get individuals to understand and positively influence the dreaming part of their mind. In 2006 he worked for three months in Castlerea Prison and he also works as a Therapist Supervisor, helping therapists to understand the complexities of the problems which individuals bring to a therapist. Joe tells me he worked as an Eircom engineer for many years, far removed from his present career. An opportunity arose for him to take early retirement, and in 2000 he left Eircom, determined to follow his passion to work as a hypnotherapist. The business was vibrant until 2009, when the economy slowed down. However, Joe did not believe in ‘slowing down’ and embarked on a Business and Tourism course in the VEC in Swinford, 30 hours a week for a period of two years. “I really wanted to partake of this course in order to achieve computer skills. It was very rewarding and I have now set up my business website. Individuals come to me with a range of problems from a desire to quit smoking or to deal with various fears and phobias.” What would Joe say to someone who may need to change their career? “I think you need to look at all your options. If you lose your job, for whatever reason, it can really mean the beginning of something new. Sometimes you may have to step outside your familiar environment. I worked in Eircom for 25 years and it was a challenge to walk away and work in a completely different capacity and set up a business. “I suppose I followed my dream and it has led me to where I want to be.”

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

New all-weather pitch ofﬁcially opened by Ballymoe FC < DAN DOONER

FAI CEO John Delaney officially opened the new all-weather pitch at Ballymoe FC last weekend following a late change to his schedule. The Irish soccer supremo had been due in the Co.

Galway town on Saturday afternoon but “was forced to make changes to a busy schedule of club visits over the weekend” according to a club statement. Speaking at the official opening, Delaney said: “Apologies about yester-

day, I think I’ve visited about 2,000 clubs during my time in the role and I’ve never missed an official engagement ever but I was just not able to travel. But I’m here and delighted to be here.” Club secretary, Kathleen Hegarty, also announced

that Ballymoe FC received €10,000 in funding for the pitch development from the Football Association of Ireland, which it is hoped will provide a huge boost to football in the area. Ballymoe FC was also presented with 50 tickets

for Tuesday night’s Republic of Ireland match against Oman during what was a momentous day for the club. John Delaney also vowed to return to Ballymoe and promised the club his support in financing floodlights for the new pitch.

Kilbride Community Centre and Shop HALL AVAILABLE FOR ... Indoor Soccer, Badminton, Basketball Birthday Parties Also available for Meetings, Courses, Training Days, etc. Fully equipped Gym Fully equipped kitchen available VERY REASONABLE RATES GREAT PARKING – EASY ACCESS

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newsbrief Lough Ree Fish Hatchery Competition The annual fundraiser for the Lough Ree Fish Hatchery Competition will be held on Sunday 11th September on Lough Ree. This trout competition is for the Halligan Cup and €650 in prize money. It is a catch and release competition and is confined to clubs and its members affiliated to the Hatchery. There is also a prize for the best junior angler (U-18). Clubs are requested to provide a captain for the event. Rules can be had on the morning of the competition. For further details contact 087-2735067.

Harvest Table Quiz at Abbey Hotel CBS Roscommon Parents’ Council are hosting a Harvest Table Quiz Night on Thursday, 13th of October in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. On the night they envisage the quiz to be one of the best ever hosted – with special prizes! To get the ball rolling, Kevin McStay and Fergal O’Donnell, joint managers of the Roscommon football team, along with a few celebrities including Ruth Scott, native of Roscommon town (DJ with 2fm) and plenty of other famous faces on the night, will be in attendance. All will be revealed!

FAI CEO John Delaney officially opens the new all-weather pitch at Ballymoe FC. Also in picture are Michael Fitzmaurice TD; Ballymoe FC chairman, Padraic Grogan; secretary Kathleen Hegarty and Gerry Tully, RDFL secretary.

< DAN DOONER

There was much excitement in this part of the world last week when Ballymoe FC announced that not only had they completed their fantastic new all-weather pitch, but also that FAI CEO John Delaney would be in town to officially open it. Considering the media frenzy over Rio tickets, I had my doubts that the second vice-president of the Olympic Council of Ireland would actually appear in Ballymoe so I called a local FAI representative to make sure. “Of course he’ll be there,” came the confirmation. In hindsight, I should have followed up with “When?” That’s the kind of schoolboy error Paul McShane was routinely punished for at international level. I was out Friday night and

therefore groggy on Saturday morning when I furthered my enquiries. I dialled a number obtained from a reasonable source in Dublin. Ten seconds of a strange dial tone later, came a greeting: “Olá?!” “Eh, hello? Is that Ballymoe?” “Olá senhor, você fala português?” “Ah, Dia Dhuit! I’m sorry, I didn’t realise Ballymoe was in a Gaeltacht area.” After two minutes of getting nowhere I had grown weary of playing ‘PokéJohn Go’, so I went back to sleep. I was awoken by a former colleague from Dublin who informed me that Mr. Delaney hadn’t shown up in Ballymoe that afternoon and there were now reward posters up all over town. Okay, I may have smudged two separate stories together

there in a sleepy daze. John eventually showed up in Ballymoe on the Sunday and dutifully opened the new pitch. Seemingly, he had been bogged down with similar requests; and indeed he had been pictured at another event in Oranmore over the weekend. Either way, recently retired captain Robbie Keane would have been proud of Delaney’s ability to lose his marker. More importantly, Ballymoe FC had an almost perfect weekend as they opened their new pitch. The opening followed a long period of hard work and fundraising, which is a credit to the club and the local community. The only dampener on their weekend was the club’s 1-0 defeat to local rivals, Castlerea Celtic, in the RDFL Shield. Nobody has yet confirmed if the match was an all-ticket affair.

Leaving Cert Higher and Ordinary Level Experienced Higher Level Maths Teacher Venue: The Abbey Hotel, Roscommon “These Grinds were the main reason I moved from a D2 in the mocks to an A1 in the Leaving”.

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From Rio to Ballymoe – Delaney slips his marker!

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

HAC presentation towards hospital equipment

Pictured at the presentation were (l-r) Paula McNamara, Tina Vaughan, Maura Quigley, Bernie Finneran, Deirdre Jones, Elaine Prendergast, Sandra Kiernan, Amanda O’Halloran, Fintan McLoughlin, Cllr. Valerie Byrne.

SHANNON

Public Consultation Days DRAFT FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT PLANS AND RELATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT REPORTS CARRICK-ON-SHANNON (including Drumshanbo, Leitrim Village, Mohill and Dromod), Co. Leitrim Date

Tuesday 6th September 2016

Time

2:00pm – 7:30pm

Venue

Leitrim County Council Ofﬁces, Áras an Chontae, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim

ROSCOMMON TOWN (including Athlone, Athleague and Castlerea),

Co. Roscommon Date

Wednesday 7th September 2016

Time

2:00pm – 7:30pm

Venue

Crofton Suite, Abbey Hotel, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon

Roscommon Hospital Action Committee (HAC) this week presented Roscommon University Hospital with a cheque for €6,000 towards a machine for reconstructive micro pigmentation used following invasive surgery. This is a further contribution from Roscommon HAC towards hospital equipment. Over the last five years Roscommon HAC has contributed over €40,000 to Roscommon Hospital and Roscommon Sacred Heart Hospital towards equipment that is invaluable to the continuation of the variety of services at the hospitals. The funding was used for heart monitors, specialised beds, blood monitoring equipment and most recently this machine for reconstructive micro pigmentation. “This latest equipent is hugely significant to the development of services at the hospital, especially the work of Dr. Deirdre Jones, Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, on skin cancer” said Cllr. Valerie Byrne. Funding for this equipment came from the people of Rosommon from church gate collections that Roscommon HAC holds each year. Roscommon Hospital Action Committee are holding their annual church gate collection on September 3rd and 4th in the Roscommon area and on September 17th and 18th in the Boyle Area. Please support.

Boil water notice to be lifted soon? The boil water notice on the North East Roscommon regional water supply scheme is expected to be lifted by the end of September, and Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Galway, Eugene Murphy, has urged Irish Water to strictly adhere to this timeframe as thousands of householders “have been consistently inconvenienced.” The scheme extends from Rooskey in the east, to Tulsk in the west, and from Drumsna in the north, to Ballyleague in the south. Deputy Murphy noted that domestic customers receive a 100% discount to the water supply portion of their bill for the duration of the boil water notice but they are still liable for the charge of wastewater services. However the Fianna Fáil TD pointed out the “outrageous” and ridiculous” situation whereby hundreds of pub-

licans, hoteliers, restaurants, cafes, etc. were still paying full price for both drinking water and wastewater charges despite the fact that there is a boil water notice in place. Deputy Murphy said that work on the design, supply, installation and commissioning of pressure filters, UV reactor and control panels at Lisheen Lake pumphouse was completed in March 2016. Following this, a threemonth process proving and commissioning period commenced and was completed in July 2016. “I understand checks are currently being made on the chlorine levels at the end of the watermain network. Irish Water has indicated that the end of September is a likely date for lifting of the boil water notice but I understand that the hold-up was due to the fact that test was not able to reg-

ister a result due to some technicality and that the HSE will ultimately decide on the date that the boil water notice can be lifted. “I am calling on Irish Water to strictly adhere to the projected date of the end of September to lift the boil water notice as some 5,400 customers have been seriously inconvenienced long enough at this stage. “A new water treatment plant for the North East Roscommon Regional Water Supply scheme is currently under construction at a new site located near Strokestown. This new plant is due for completion in May 2017. Let’s hope that Irish Water will stick to that schedule in a bid to ensure a sustainable and safe supply of drinking water to the communities of North East Roscommon,” concluded Deputy Murphy.

ATHLEAGUE (including Athlone, Roscommon Town and Castlerea),

Co. Roscommon Date

Wednesday 7th September 2016

Time

2:00pm – 7:30pm

Venue

Athleague Community Hall, Athleague, Co. Roscommon

Are you interested in the draft Flood Risk Management Plans for your area? A public consultation is currently underway seeking public and stakeholder comments and observations on the measures now being proposed as the preferred and feasible measures, to address known significant flood risk for a particular area. At the public consultation events, members of the public can ask questions in relation to the draft Flood Risk Management Plans that are specific to their particular area. Further details on the draft Flood Risk Management Plans consultation process, including the date by which observations or comments are required, are now available on the website: www.opw.ie/FloodPlans

In partnership with:

COMHAIRLE CONTAE LIATROMA LEITRIM COUNTY COUNCIL

Pictured at the Carrick Carers Day in Lough Key Forest Park were Tony Byron, Sharon Lavin, Colin Corcoran and Ray Dunne. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople Down The Hatch celebrates 20 years in business this weekend It’s hard to believe that 20 years have passed since that most inviting of pubs, Down The Hatch, first opened its doors in Church Street, Roscommon. The quaint and cosy premises indeed ‘made its debut’ in 1996. This weekend, the popular proprietors, Larry Brennan and Seamus Hayden (pictured), will celebrate 20 years in business there. There’s entertainment, refreshments and craic all weekend, with the fun beginning on Friday night (see advertisement on page 44).

‘Down The Hatch’ may be its official title, but to the thousands of customers who have socialised there over those two decades, it’s affectionately known as ‘The Hatch.’ Over the years the Hatch has established itself as one of the most popular ‘GAA pubs’ in the West of Ireland. Indeed all sports are viewed and discussed – often at length – in the famous Church Street premises. It’s also a popular venue for political debate – and the one ever-present on

‘Along by the River’ showcases local beauty and innovation < DAN DOONER

I attended last Friday’s launch of the documentary on the River Suck, ‘Along by the River: Discover the River Suck’ in Roscommon Arts Centre. A large crowd was in attendance and they were treated to a wine and beer reception, with Ballinlough brewery, Black Donkey, supplying the beer. Cllr. Orla Leyden officially launched the documentary and highlighted the aims of the project: “You are all very welcome to the launch of ‘Along by the River: Discover the River Suck’ in Roscommon Arts Centre tonight. “It is being screened in conjuction with National Heritage Week 2016. The theme for this year’s heritage week is people and place and this documentary commissioned by the Suck Valley Angling Hub and Suck Valley Development Co-operative and produced by Mimar Media reveals the River Suck, its flora and fauna, rich biodiversity, heritage and culture, in essence The River Suck – people and place.

the agenda is good craic! Proprietors Larry Brennan and Seamus Hayden wish to thank their loyal customers for their great support over the past 20 years. Everyone is welcome to join the celebrations this weekend and Larry and Seamus look forward to seeing you. The 20th anniversary celebrations kick off on Friday night with music by Derek Campbell. The celebrations continue on Saturday night with DJ Seamus Duke. – PH

newsbriefs Cllr. Naughten’s concern on parking at new Cloonakilla NS The need for increased parking and footpaths following the construction of the new Cloonakilla National School is to be raised by Cllr. John Naughten at the next Municipal District Meeting of Roscommon County Council. Cllr. Naughten has submitted a Notice of Motion calling on the Council to “immediately commence pavement works at Cloonakilla N.S to ensure road safety levels are significantly improved at this location, as the new primary school is presently under construction”. “I will also be raising the issue of parking at this location,” stated Cllr. Naughten. “There are significant traffic issues around this location on a daily basis and I am calling on Roscommon County Council to address these in conjunction with the construction of the new school.”

Launch of Hospice fundraiser in P Kelly’s

Pictured at the premiere of ‘Along by the River: Discover the River Suck’ were Pablo Roberto, Cllr. Orla Leyden, Mary and Senator Terry Leyden. Picture: Andrew Fox

“Our aim is to attract more tourists to experience the River Suck for angling, walking, kayaking bird watching, cycling, cruising and to explore our rich heritage, built and natural and to enjoy our culture and arts.” Unfortunately, due to a technical issue, the first screening of the Mimar Productions documentary that was commissioned by the Suck Valley Angling Hub and the Suck Valley Development Co-operative had to be delayed

until tonight (Thursday, September 1st) at 8 pm. Fortunately, one of the driving forces behind the project, Cllr. Orla Leyden, and Mimar Media’s Michael Hourigan and Martina Larkin allowed me to have an advance screening. Now, there will be no spoiler alert as I’m not going to ruin the surprise for those attending this evening, but I will say this: the documentary is beautifully shot and showcases the natural beauty that can be found all along the

river in Roscommon and east Galway. It also pays homage to the innovative people who live by the river and goes into tremendous detail in highlighting the history of the region. It’s visually very appealing and made me want to rush out and buy a boat and a fishing rod! The documentary was well worth the wait and will go down a treat with the audience this evening at the Roscommon Arts Centre.

€3.2m water funding boost Roscommon County Council is to receive over €600,000 under the Rural Water Programme while Galway is to receive €2.6m local Minister Denis Naughten has confirmed. “The funding is being provided to the Councils under the Department of Housing, Planning, Community & Local Government’s Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme 2016-2018,” explained Minister Naughten. “Administration of the funding will then be the responsibility of the local authorities but is aimed at improving water quality in existing group water schemes as well as the takeover of some schemes by Irish Water and upgrading and conservation works in group water scheme distribution networks. “Included in the allocation is €0.5m to improve safety of group water schemes in Roscommon

and Galway by removing trihalomethanes (TTHMs) from some waters supplies. Roscommon County Council is to receive €300,000 and Galway County Council is to receive over €200,000 which will take these chemicals out of the water supply, which may be associated with cancer after long term exposure to such water supplies. “This scheme is important as it also provides funding towards new group water and sewerage schemes which are vital for rural households.” The basis for the 2016 funding has been on existing commitments, ‘shovel-ready’ projects and with priority given to water quality compliance.” Senator Maura Hopkins said: “Minister for Housing, Planning, Community and Local Government, Simon Coveney TD has informed me

that Co. Roscommon is to receive an allocation of €608,000. Minister Coveney has advised me that the funding is aimed primarily towards the improvement of water quality in existing schemes, the takeover of some schemes by Irish Water in cases where the scheme has sought such a takeover, and other upgrading and water conservation works. Importantly however funding is also to be provided for the set-up of new schemes which will alllow rural households to have access to a supply of good quality piped water for the first time.” Senator Hopkins concluded: “Communities across Co. Roscommon have been plagued by poor water quality over the past number of years. This funding allocation will allow for further works in addition to the many projects completed successfully to date.”

The launch of the special live music fundraiser for Roscommon/Mayo Hospice and Roscommon Palliative Care Services at Jack’s Live Venue, Roscommon on Friday, October 14th, will take place at P. Kelly’s Bar, Castle Street, Roscommon on Thursday, September 1st at 9 pm (tonight). The launch will be performed by Roscommon Rose Aisling McNeill. Tickets for this fundraiser will be on sale from the night of the launch. Everyone is welcome to attend. On the 14th of October, The Rockin Rossies, with special guest Avril Gilligan, will appear live and the night will end with an 80s/90s disco. Tickets are only €10 each. More details from Seamus Duke on 086-8335380.

Rooskey Charity Cycle is this Sunday The 3rd Annual Rooskey Charity Cycle in aid of Roscommon/Mayo Hospice palliative care service will take place on Sunday, 4th of September from Rooskey Community Centre. Registration from 8 am. €20 per person and €30 for families. The 100 km cycle will start at 9 am sharp followed by the 60km at 9.15 am, and finally the 20km at 10 am. Refreshments will be served before and after the event in the Community Centre, Rooskey. Thanks to the people of Elphin and Tulsk, there will be ‘pit stops’ along the way. We would be very grateful for any support on the day. Hopefully the weather will play its part for what promises to be a great day for young and old! For details please contact Teresa at 087-6575272 or visit our Facebook page Mayo/Roscommon Hospice - Rooskey Cycle.

Solstice Choir seeks new members The Roscommon Solstice Choir had a very successful season for 2015-2016. A series of Charity Concerts in December 2015 raised a large amount of funds, and was followed by their trip to London in February 2016 to assist the Acton Homeless Concern which is spearheaded by Roscommon natives Fr. Ultan Naughton and Sr. Helen Bosquette. This was followed by the choir’s participation in the much-lauded Roscommon Drama production of The State of the Nation. If this was not enough, the choir then embarked on a summer season of concerts throughout the Midlands, culminating in their participation in the Pride of Place Awards in July. An exciting new season of song and music is planned by this group. With this in mind, we are looking for new members. An evening for new members will be held in Kilbride Community Hall on Sunday, 4th of September at 7.30 pm. All are welcome.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

BackToSchool/FurtherEducation/Courses

Roscommon researcher urges schools, parents and teens to choose healthier options A Roscommon researcher has urged schools, parents and teens to choose healthier lunch options after a recent study found that shopbought and school lunches were of a lower nutritional value than home-made lunches. Sarah Browne, a registered Dietitian from Roscommon town and past-pupil of the Convent of Mercy, undertook the research with Dublin City University School of Nursing and Human Sciences on the nutritional quality of school day lunches among Irish teenagers. The findings, which formed part of her PhD studies at DCU, were published in the journal of Public Health Nutrition in early August. It found that lunches provided by schools or purchased in outlets near schools contained higher levels of calories, added sugars and fat. 615 lunches were analysed from a cross section sample of urban and rural schools, with 376 home-made lunches, 115 classed as school lunches and 124 lunches sourced in food outlets close to secondary schools. Of the 305 teenagers, aged 15-17 surveyed, it was found that 39% purchased lunches at school or in the school vicinity and boys were more

likely than girls to purchase food from local outlets. The study found that teenagers were more likely to consume processed meat products, chips and high calorie soft-drinks from lunches sourced at school and local shops. In contrast, home-made lunches were more likely to contain wholemeal breads, cheeses, red meat and fruit. However, the average school day lunch, irrespective of source, was low in fibre, vitamins and minerals, and high in salt. Commenting on the findings, Sarah Browne said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are two major concerns when

teenagers are exposed to and eat high calorie, fat and sugary foods regularly at school. Firstly, we know these foods and drinks contribute to obesity, and secondly, it means that healthier options are not eaten as much. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This study showed that for the most part home lunches were preferable to bought lunches, however, all school day lunches need attention in terms of fibre, vitamins and minerals so we need to raise awareness at home and school about the importance of improving the quality of the foods our teenagers eat.â&#x20AC;? The paper outlined that low-nutrient, energy dense food and beverage items including confectionery and sugar-sweetened beverage items are commonly sold alongside healthier options in Irish secondary schools and that as result of this, fruit and vegetable consumption has also been shown to be lower in schools where low-nutrient, energy dense foods are available. It highlighted that food retailers in close proximity to secondary schools are an important influence on the dietary behaviour of young people. Sarah Browne, a registered Dietitian

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OPEN DAY Wednesday, 7th September, 2016 10.30am to 3.30pm

VTOS COURSES ROSCOMMON AND CASTLEREA VTOS is the main provider of education for unemployed adults in County Roscommon, now under the auspices of Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board. :H RIIHU D FKRLFH RI VXEMHFWV ZKLFK DUH GLYHUVH Ă&#x20AC;H[LEOH DQG DUH accredited by QQI (FETAC). Our awards range from QQI Level 4-5 subjects include Early Childhood Care and Education, Business Administration, Healthcare, Art & Design, Computing and Tourism. Are you over 21, unemployed for at least 6 months (in receipt of a social welfare payment) and in search of further education? If so please contact the following VTOS centres: CASTLEREA VTOS & Adult Education Centre, Patrick St., Castlerea (Co-ordinator: Kathleen McNulty 094-9620161 email: castlereavtos@gretb.ie)

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<HV LI \RX DUH RYHU DQG LQ UHFHLSW RI MREVHHNHUV DOORZDQFH MREVHHNHUV EHQHÂżW RU signing for credits for at least six months or In receipt of a one-parent family payment, GLVDELOLW\ DOORZDQFH IDUP DVVLVW GLVDELOLW\ EHQHÂżW RU LQYDOLGLW\ SHQVLRQ IRU DW OHDVW VL[ months or are a dependent spouse for at least six months For further information please contact any of the above co-ordinators ,I \RX KDYH DOUHDG\ UHFHLYHG FRQÂżUPDWLRQ RI D SODFH RQ 9726 WKHUH LV QR QHHG WR DWWHQG

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

BackToSchool/FurtherEducation/Courses

60% of parents get into debt funding Third Level Education The Irish League of Credit Unions has launched the results of the 2016 Cost of Third Level Education Study, which surveyed 1,000 Irish adults over the age of 18 with Marketing Research Company iReach. The research found that 60% of parents get into debt funding third level education; 73% of parents really struggle to cover the cost of their child’s third level education; and 62% of family budgets have been adversely affected by the third-level registration fee. “The survey reflects what we’ve been saying time and time again” Annie Hoey, USI President, said. “Third level education is causing a huge financial strain on young people and families. Almost two-thirds of family budgets have been adversely affected by the third level registration fee – which, at €3,000, is the second highest in Europe. USI research conducted in June shows that 58% of students miss meals, 39% go hungry and 34% go without heat. “The research from the Irish League of Credit Unions shows that families are also feeling the pinch. Publicly-funded education benefits everyone, including families, not just those receiving the education.” According to the research, 87% of parents are

Enquiries call 089 4589546 Mon-Sun 7-8pm

Guitar, Violin, Piano, Banjo, Leaving Cert etc ... Classes in Athleague: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday Classes in Roscommon Town: Monday & Thursday €15 for private half hour lesson Adult Guitar: From Friday, September 2nd In the Bridge House, Athleague Beginners: 8.00pm Improvers: 8:45pm €8 per lesson

Roscommon-Athlone service for school and college students

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• BALLYMURRAY • KNOCKCROGHERY • LECARROW • KILTOOM • HODSON BAY supporting their children financially through college, contributing €447 per month per child to cover costs of college. Worryingly, 4% of parents say they will approach a moneylender to cover third level costs. USI said this reflects how desperate families are to send their children to third level education because they know it provides the key to a brighter future for them. Ms. Hoey said if the Government reduces the registration fees and increases student support (which is recommended by the Cassells report),

it will help young people and families across Ireland, as well as strengthen the workforce by education and up-skilling, which will in turn strengthen the economy and allow people to pay higher taxes, returning more to the system. “It’s a no-brainer” Ms. Hoey said. “It’s a winwin. If politicians prioritise education, they will have a better, stronger workforce able to earn more, in higher tax brackets; and they will also gain the support of the people who vote them in. Prioritising education is prioritising the needs of the people.”

Revision Academy for excellent results! Dayna Fahy “I have to say I found the Revision Academy a great help and felt better prepared ahead of my Leaving Cert. The notes for revision were really extensive and made studying that much easier. Following the course, I have taken my Leaving Certificate and now I’m studying Dayna Fahy and Teresa Silke Business in GMIT.” Brennan.

Karl Mulligan “I found this course to be extremely beneficial as I was constantly receiving notes for revision throughout the year. The teachers were very helpful and gave great advice for the Leaving Cert with regards to timing, content and topics for revision. I would gladly recommend this course to any Leaving Cert student as I understand how valuable this extra help is for those sitting exams. My only regret is not starting the course sooner. Since tak-

ROSCOMMON MUSIC SCHOOL

ing part in the course I have completed my Leaving Cert and am now attending the University of Limerick to study Business.” - Karl Mulligan

evision Academy aims to provide Leaving and Junior Certificate students in the community with an exam-focused revision course, which is not only accessible but also affordable. The Academy is run by qualified secondary school teacher, Teresa Silke Brennan, who has an impressive background in business and finance. Led by teachers with excellent experience, small group revision provides a positive environment for study while also remaining great value. With classes available on weekday evenings as well as Saturday mornings in the Quad Centre in Roscommon town, the training centre at The Old Mill in Castlerea and of course, our original base in Glenamaddy, students can choose revision times that suit. Subjects on offer include: Maths, both higher and ordinary; English higher level; Biology higher level; Irish higher level and French higher level. The first term will run from September 12th to December 16th (13 weeks). The cost is €18 per class and each class is 1 hour and 30 minutes in length. All classes are given by experienced teaching staff who endeavour to help students reach their full potential. All the staff at Revision Academy would like to congratulate the students of 2015/2016 and wish them well in their future studies and careers. Oral preparation and Easter Revision courses will be available in Spring 2017. For more information please contact Teresa Silke Brennan on 086-2330389.

Evening study catered for with departures from Athlone at 16.00 hrs. and 18.00 hrs. BUS SERVICE FOR ROSCOMMON TOWN SECONDARY SCHOOL’S Starting in Curraghroe, Cloontuskert, Lanesboro, Ballyleague and surrounding areas.

For further information please contact Pat Naughton on 087-4105449 or 090 66 61058 or Martin 087 9144445

Revision Academy Tel. 086 2330389. Email: revision1@eircom.net

Exam focused revision classes in Glenamaddy, Roscommon and Castlerea Revision Academy aims to provide Leaving & Junior Certificate Students with exam-focused revision that is both accessible and affordable to students in the community. Revision in small groups offers a positive study environment while remaining an affordable way of exam preparation During each session teachers will give guidance on study technique, deliver exam-focused materials, provide important notes, sample questions, model answers and work on revision exercises

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In the Quad Centre, Roscommon town, Training Centre, The Old Mill, Castlerea and in Glenamaddy SUBJECTS AVAILABLE ● Maths - Higher & Ordinary level ● English - Higher Level ● Biology - Higher Level ● Irish - Higher Level ● French - Higher Level Term 1: 12th September - 16th December (13 Weeks) ● €18 per class ● Each class is 1 hour 30 Minutes Oral preparation & Easter Revision Courses available in Spring 2017 All classes are given by experienced teaching staff who endeavour to help students reach their full academic potential

For enquiries please call Teresa Silke Brennan on

086 2330389

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

From My Kitchen Table MIRIAM KERINS

Unconditional love is something every parent will understand A

ccording to the Tavistock Clinic in London, 1,400 children, who were apparently experiencing difficulties around the development of their specific gender identity, applied to have reassignment surgery in the United Kingdom last year. According to Irish statistics – well those I could find, under the Freedom of Information Act (FOI) – in 2015 the HSE funded six people in their bid to undergo ‘sex change operations’ abroad. Now for many parents, grandparents and other family members, this type of request from a child/teen/young adult may prove worrying. In fact, in some cases, it could present as a nightmare, but I think these figures are actually good news; happy news in fact, because I believe that when your child is experiencing constant desolation, depression, stress, is self-harming and it’s obvious to you that their general overall mental health and wellbeing is being threatened due to the fact they dropped the bombshell they don’t fit the social norms and are not being accepted for who they really are; then declaring to you that they are trapped in the wrong gender could possibly be more a cause for celebration than fear, disapproval or even anger. Okay, under the Treatment Abroad Scheme, these HSE funded surgeries were really paid for by you and me; i.e. the taxpayer! And, with the average cost of initial assessment to sur-

gery to us being just over €30 grand – and that’s for male to female procedures, female to male costs a lot more – I suppose when you come to think of it, it’s a bloody expensive way for a person to self-actualise, isn’t it! However, when Cork sisters Jamie and Chloe O’Herlihy (formerly Cork brothers) and their mam Sarah spoke openly with UTV’s Eamon Holmes and Ruth Langsford on This Morning last week regarding their transgender disclosure and journey – leading them to identify as women, both at the same time – I was absolutely gobsmacked at how their amazing mother wasn’t in the least bit fazed by this bolt from the blue. Emphasising her ability to embrace change, Sarah told viewers: “I didn’t have an issue really because I gave birth to two beautiful babies and they’re still my children. Gender isn’t really an issue for me.” What a cool mother! These two young people are her children, and, with a mother’s love, with a mother’s acceptance, this Cork woman, this Irish mammy, has managed to skilfully and compassionately evaluate her children’s gender identity without any bias whatsoever. Look folks, it’s a fact that transgender people, or those who don’t conform to gender stereotypes have always existed; however, sadly, for many, due to possibly facing gigantic social obstacles such as isolation, bullying,

t u o s d n a t s d w o O’D d! from the crow ro

ous son, homeboy he Roscommon’s most fam tedly netted the lead r, repoorrte Chris O’Dowd, has rep vie franchise, howeve mo role in the Get Shorty yed out in a living room this time it will be plamade for the small screen. near you as it’s being an unlikely heartthrob Super-hot, O’Dowd is ke a major splash ma who has managed to ly making him one of the ick qu ; nd po e th across llywood has ever been’s most bankable stars Ho And fair play to him; he be lucky enough to have.whom, despite his rising status, appears to often ns y, iga gu e an nic en ly sh l ine ica nu ist ge ot a me the arrogance and eg bombproofed against-called high profile celebrities…and believe so ny ma by d ye displa ich I’ve met my share. s Chris stand out most is not his acting…wh ke his , ma sm at ali wh on r, ssi ofe Howeve t his friendliness, his pr eree he came get wher for r is pretty impressive; bu ve ne to y ilit ab his d an s er nn ma ly od! gentleman m Boyle defo done go from. Yeah, the boy fro

segregation and the lack of support and rejection from family, friends and work colleagues, they’ve been forced to conceal and suppress their gender identities. However, thankfully now, with increasing openness, acceptance and inclusiveness, more and more members of this marginalised group are happily and safely expressing how they feel, with families and mothers like Sarah O’Herlihy openly showing unequivocal love and support for their child’s identity. Thanks to the O’Herlihy ladies for being brave enough to step forward, pave the way and support each other in what has obviously been a positive change in all of their lives. As a mother I know there is absolutely no greater love in our lives than that of those whom, when they

were babies, based their entire world around our pride, our nurturing and our acceptance of them. Okay, at times, they behaved like spoiled brats and we wanted to run a mile from them; however, when they’re facing a personal crisis, we drop everything and we run to their rescue…been there, done that, even flew halfway across the world at the drop of a hat once for one of my divas; (but sin scéal eile); only to find out when I got there that it was a very trivial hiccup (could have strangled her); but sure I’m her mammy, I heard she was feeling ill and I hopped on a plane…as ya do. What I’m saying is, unconditional love is the key to your child’s happiness…but sure that’s something every parent will understand. Well done to the O’Herlihy’s.

newsbrief Traditional Music classes in Hyde Centre The long-standing traditional music classes run by Roscommon Town Comhaltas branch will resume on Monday next, 5th of September in the Dr. Hyde Centre, Roscommon. Beginners will commence at 6.15 pm with improvers and advanced following on. A variety of instruments will be catered for, but beginners should take along a ‘D’ whistle. Tutors will be multiinstrumentalists, Mary Jo Fitzpatrick, B.A. in music and Michael Cully, also a highly competent musician and tutor. For further information contact Liam Ó Cuinneagáin at 090 6626729 or 086 3345817.

Trad Music classes at the Quad Centre A new season of traditional whistle and flute classes with local teacher John Wynne begin again on Tuesday, 13th of September at The Quad Youth Centre, Roscommon Town. All levels and ages catered for. Tuition for State and CCE exams provided for. 1:1 lessons available also. Contact John on 087-2239095.

Psychology Course in Vita House, Roscommon Application forms are available now for the QQI Level 7 Psychology Course in Vita House, Roscommon. This course is certified by Maynooth University and is open to everyone. The course offers participants the chance to better understand themselves and their interactions and communication with others. For more information and to apply, call or 0906625898, or email info@ vitahouse.org.

Foroige Club Information Evening in Ballybay

The hysterical howl-fest is back! It would seem to me that even though nobody of sound mind and hearing is buying the dire recordings of some, ahem, talent show winners these days, the likes of Simon Cowell’s X Factor still manages to entice thousands of puddle deep, disingenuous, delusional ‘popstars’ each year; hooking eejits, sorry viewers like me for the thirteenth season. Sniffing failure a mile away and feeling truly underwhelmed, I danced round the sitting room, slice of Dominos in one hand, hairbrush in the other, all my attention on the TV, (clearly I had nothing better to do), as I watched the good, the bad and the truly bizarre. And I’m talkin’ bout da real deal here, urban girl Honey G who woz gettin’ jiggy with it, nomsayin’ dude; and, ahem, gangsta’s paradise style, er, she gave it! Yeah mon, she delivered, she

brung it and murdered, sorry rapped out Missy Elliot’s ‘Work It.’ Yeah, the Nicki Minaj wannabe from North ‘Weezy’ (West Landan innit) Honey G, lookin’ like she could be the love child of David Cameron and Tulisa, made my ears bleed as I watched what can only be described as the world’s largest karaoke contest. (And no, I haven’t suddenly lost the will to spell, just the will to live folks). And yes, while there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Honey G, who didn’t so much rap, rather she spewed out egregiously stilted lumps of lyrics, is chockfull of self-confidence and there is nothing wrong with that at all, at all folks…however, what this woman really needs to balance her a bit is a touch of good old-fashioned selfawareness. BTW, welcome back Louis; we’ve missed you.

Foroige Club Information Evening being held in Ballybay Parish Hall on Tuesday, 6th of September at 8 pm. All welcome to attend. The areas are trying to establish a youth club for local teens and volunteers are required to assist running the clubs. If you are interested, please come along on the night. For more information contact Jim Maher, Regional Youth Officer on 0869672920 or email james.maher@ foroige.ie.

Glamorous Buttons and Bows event Glamorous Buttons and Bows for Roscommon Cancer Support Service will be held in the Hodson Bay Hotel on the 11th of September. It will be an opportunity for ladies to pick up some beautiful preloved dresses, handbags and other accessories. Shopping from 12-5 pm, admission €5. All proceeds to Roscommon Cancer Support Service.

Thoughts from the Bible You are warmly invited to come and listen to thoughts shared from the Bible in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon town recommencing this Sunday, 4th of September at 7 pm. Weekly talks every Sunday. Talks are free; hymn singing included and everyone is very welcome. Contact: 086-8489244.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

REGARI Recovery College opens new doors < DAN DOONER

“I believe this is the way forward and I expect that we’ll see many more facilities of this nature in the future.” That was the hopeful message from Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Helen McEntee, as she officially opened REGARI Recovery College in Roscommon town last Thursday. The recovery college is located in the Lodge building beside Roscommon University Hospital and is just the second of its type in Ireland. The other recovery clinic is also located in Connacht, in Co. Mayo. There are also plans to open similar clinics in Cavan/Monaghan, Carlow/Kilkenny/South Tipperary and the Midwest. REGARI stands for Roscommon and East Galway Advancing Recovery in Ireland, and the project has proven to be a huge success following its inception in 2013. At the college, people with experience of or an interest in mental health issues can take part in education modules. These modules are designed to develop a deeper understanding of mental health issues and techniques to cope and deal with them. The modules take place in a group setting where in-

Pictured is REGARI Peer Educator, Ailish Connaughton who spoke at last week’s official opening at the Lodge building in Roscommon town.

dividuals share experiences and work in conjunction with mental health professionals.

Minister McEntee praised REGARI for allowing those who have had experiences of the issues

to assist in treatment and recovery. “REGARI shows that people can get better with the help of mental health experts, and also with the help of people who have gone through it (mental health issues) previously. I think that’s what makes it special. “Of course it’s not always going to be possible for everybody to completely remove medication from their lives. However, at a facility like this we can work out what patients and families want.” REGARI peer educator, Ailish Connaughton, addressed the audience: “This is a peer-led project in collaboration with the HSE, where experts by experience can work with experts by profession so that they can recover and come away with the hope, empowerment and resilience that they need to control their issues.” Ms. Connaughton described the process of establishing REGARI as a “godsend” to her before detailing the ten modules which will form the autumn/winter programme this year. They include subjects such ‘Let’s Talk Mental Health’ and ‘Understanding Medication’, while mudules in self-awareness and resilience are also included. It is hoped that REGARI will build on the success of the six taster sessions which saw a total of 63 students take part.

‘A unique and positive addition to services’ Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Galway Eugene Murphy praised the REGARI Recovery College as a unique and novel approach to mental health services in County Roscommon. “I was very impressed by this novel approach to mental health services which places the people who use mental health services very much at the heart of the process. “Courses are delivered and created by people who themselves have lived experience of mental health issues along with mental health professionals. People can choose to attend these courses as part of their recovery journey. Recovery colleges are really an exciting and positive addition to mental health services, both nationally and internationally. They allow people to have choice and control in the way in which they manage their own personal recovery journey. “I was very moved by the range of stories related at the official opening of the Recovery College as many people who had experience of mental health services shared their personal stories and they are living proof that it is possible to recover and move forward in your journey. “Courses offered by Recovery Colleges are developed in collaboration with the community and can include understanding mental health difficulties, looking at treatment options and developing practical life skills. Recovery Colleges can develop and offer practical, useful courses which students can choose to aid them on their recovery journey,” said Deputy Murphy.

newsbriefs Athlone River Festival & Food Village cancelled ‘with regret’ It is with great regret that the organising committee of the Athlone River Festival & Food Village have taken the difficult decision to cancel this year’s festival. The committee, which is comprised of volunteer organisers from across the Athlone community, have had to make this decision due to the spiralling costs of running the event since last year. The committee would like to sincerely thank everyone involved for his or her support and hard work and apologise for any disappointment or inconvenience the cancellation has caused. Timmy Donovan, Festival organiser, said: “The organising committee is very saddened that we have had to make this decision. We have explored every possible means of going ahead with this year’s event but unfortunately the figures just don’t add up and we are unable to meet the dramatically increased costs of running this year’s festival. “We would like to sincerely thank all of those who have worked so hard, all on a voluntary basis, to organise this year’s event for their local community, and everyone who pledged support. All of the sponsorship and donations that we received for the 2016 festival will be reimbursed within the coming week.”

Ken Ryan and Alan Spellman inspect one of the restored stained glass panels just before it was refitted in the Sacred Heart Church by craftsmen of Abbey Stained Glass Studios, Dublin.

Stained glass restoration in Sacred Heart Church well underway

Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Helen McEntee, officially opened REGARI Recovery College at the Lodge building in Roscommon town last Thursday.

‘More pressure needed to deliver review’ – Minister < DAN DOONER

When asked about the delay on issuing of a mental health services review, which had been commissioned in Roscommon in August of last year, Minister McEntee said it was important to exercise patience when dealing with “complex” issues before admitting “more pressure was needed” in order to expedite the process. Speaking at the Lodge building at Roscommon University Hospital, she said: “I suppose something that’s as complex as this generally takes longer than we would like. We’ve seen our own ‘Vision for Change’ document, which was published 10 years ago is currently under

review and that will take some time as well. “When you’re dealing with complex issues, it’s better to get it right, it’s better to know going forward that you’re doing things right.” The Minister of State with responsibility for Mental Health and Older People did admit however that more needed to be done to avoid further delays. “Obviously we would like to see things move as quickly as possible and perhaps that’s something we need to start putting more pressure on to see movement sooner.” Addressing a shortage of resources in Roscommon/Galway, the Minister said: “Well

that’s something I’m currently working on at the moment. While there is a shortage of resources in the Roscommon/ Galway area unfortunately, there is a shortage of resources throughout the country.” After highlighting the reasons for such shortages, including a lack of available college places and emigration, the Minister added: “I think now that we have more money to spend on health, more people coming home and looking to work at home and in recent times more places being made available for really important positions like psychologists, O.T.s, like nurses; I think we’re going to start seeing improvements soon.”

The restoration of the magnificent 115-year-old French stained glass windows above the altar at the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon is now well underway. Ken Ryan, William Malone and the craftsmen of Abbey Stained Glass Studios in Dublin have now refitted eight pairs of stained glass windows. There are now only three pairs left for conservation and restoration and this remaining work will commence in September. There had been concern about safety and that the exquisite stained glass windows could be lost during a winter storm. These concerns led to the series of stained glass restoration contracts being instigated. The eight sets of windows are now sparkling as they did when they were first installed in 1901. The remaining three pairs of high-level windows on the right side of the altar will be taken out for restoration soon.

Golden Jubilee celebrations in Elphin Elphin Parish Pastoral Council invites parishioners to join us for a Mass of Thanksgiving in the Parish Church on Friday, September 9th at 8 pm. This Mass is being held to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Fr. JJ Gannon’s ordination to the priesthood. The Mass wil be followed by refreshments in the Community Centre.

Memorial walk for Hospice The Roscommon/Mayo Hospice 5km memorial walk takes place on Sunday, 11th September in Roscommon town and Ballaghaderreen. You are invited to celebrate the life of a loved one, a friend or neighbour in this special way and join the walk in their memory. There are personalised t-shirts available on request. Call 094 9388666 or email fundraising@hospice.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor Paul Healy on meeting nerveless John ahead of his big climb; A visit to Strokestown ahead of the 150th annual show; The return of the X Factor; How locals are helping poor children in Haiti; One of the greatest gaelic football games ever…and being driven around the bend… Wednesday The countdown is continuing to John Tobin’s big climb of Croagh Patrick (see update in this week’s issue). Today, John is showing no nerves and is all smiles when he calls into the Roscommon People office with Gerry Jago. John, from Williamstown, is receiving great support throughout Roscommon and East Galway as he prepares to climb the famous mountain in his wheelchair, along with family and friends (and Roscommon Civil Defence). We have good banter with John – who is very excited about the big goal he has set himself – and with Gerry. Gerry reveals that everywhere he goes John is being approached with messages of goodwill and support. John’s big challenge takes place on Saturday, September 10th. Here at the Roscommon People we’re backing him all the way and we’ll have more on the epic climb in upcoming issues.

Friday Chatting to locals in Strokestown this evening about the forthcoming 150th annual

show, I can’t help but think back to when my family lived in the town. We moved from Rooskey to Strokestown in 1985. The Strokestown Arms Hotel, our new home, was a quaint, old premises. On our second night there, the country came to a standstill as Barry McGuigan defeated the great Eusebio Pedroza to win the world title. The atmosphere at Loftus Road was incredible. The atmosphere in the bar in the Strokestown Arms was pretty special too, as locals cheered ‘Wee Barry’ on, viewing the fight on one small television above the fireplace. Ireland was a different country then, Strokestown a different town. There were over 25 pubs in Strokestown in the mid-1980s; incredibly, that’s now down to five. Of course this trend is reflected throughout Ireland. Still, it’s great to witness a good buzz in the Percy French Hotel this evening. The hotel is a vital asset in the town. Meanwhile, it is obvious that local volunteers, including Strokestown Community Development Group, have been actively working to promote the town; visually, it is looking great, with features in the centre of Strokestown, on the Longford Road and elsewhere, all enhancing the town. I have a great chat about Strokestown’s past with John Fallon and Seamus Shiel. Later, I bump into former councillor, Sean Beirne. We chat about the past too, and I ask the wily Sean about his hopes for Strokestown’s future. He is optimistic. He recognises that towns and villages are struggling, but points out that things go in cycles, and that the spirit of the people can prevail. Key to Strokestown’s future, he says, will be the very thing that has helped sustain Strokestown Show

Natalia and Igor pictured during their first day at Scoil Mhuire Convent Primary School. Picture: Andrew Fox

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

for 150 years – the strong bond that exists between townspeople and the farming community (and others) in outlying areas. Sean also makes the very good point that places like Strokestown can benefit once the Center Parcs development in Ballymahon proceeds. I agree, and I believe that all towns and villages within twenty or thirty kilometres of that Ballymahon location should be positioning themselves to benefit from this very exciting project. I left Strokestown on Friday evening feeling all my longstanding affection for the great town, with its wide streets, its character and its unique history.

Saturday/Sunday The X Factor is back. I’ve been half-expecting Simon to put it out to pasture some time soon. After all, the show has been losing credibility, and ratings have plummeted. And obviously Simon has enough dosh to allow him live the rest of his life on a luxury yacht or in some similar chilled environment. But, instead of being binned, the X Factor is back, and in fact reinvigorated, with the return of just about all of the big-hitters. Louis is back. Sharon is back. Nicole is back. And Dermot is back. I wonder if Cheryl is smarting? Although the show has deterioriated so much in recent years, there are signs this weekend that Cowell may have worked his magic again. The choice of judges and the decision to restore Dermot O’Leary is inspired. This judging panel may just have enough chemistry and capacity for craic to recharge the X Factor batteries. The X Factor is manipulative, even exploitative, but there’s no denying that it has been a family favourite in millions of homes for over a decade now. It has also done wonders for the ‘pizza industry’!

Later on Saturday The earthquake that struck Haiti in January of 2010 was devastating. The death toll estimates vary from 200,000 to 316,000. About one and a half million people were displaced and the damage to buildings, indeed entire towns and villages, was immense. The recovery process is ongoing. Child of Haiti, an Irish charity which was founded in 2011, is doing great work in helping to plan a future for children of desperately poor families living in Haiti. This coming November, a group of Irish volunteers will again travel to Haiti as part of the ‘Child of Haiti’ Orphanage project. While there, they will be rolling up their sleeves and building a badly-needed

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening last were Thomas and Mark Paulsberg. Picture: Andrew Fox

training centre. The benefit to locals of this voluntary work by the Irish grouping is huge. The 10-strong group will include a number of locals from the Roscommon/East Galway region. At tonight’s charity auction in Eddie’s Bar in Ballymoe, energetic auctioneer Seamie Connolly keeps everyone well entertained. Amongst the items auctioned to help volunteer Sandra Gunning with her campaign are a restored ‘High Nelly’ bicycle, signed rugby jerseys, bags of turf, a camcorder, a new television…and free-range eggs! The event is a success and it’s an enjoyable night. Meanwhile, local volunteers tell me there’s a fully restored vintage Ferguson tractor up for raffle soon – tickets available shortly! Your support for upcoming Child of Haiti fundraisers locally will be greatly appreciated.

Sunday That had to be one of the greatest football games of all time. Dublin v Kerry was just magnificent. Dublin were looking fairly comfortable when they led by five. Then Stephen Cluxton miskicked and Kerry responded like an animal in the jungle that has heard some unfortunate prey make an unexpected sound. Soon, Kerry were five clear and Dublin were dazed. Predictably, Dublin played their way back into the game. And what a game this was. Fantastic intensity. Tremendous commitment from the players. Great skill and passion. Some marvellous score-taking. Kerry emptied everything they had on to the

pitch, but a few of their top stars began to show signs of battle fatigue. They were heroic, but, before a spellbound nation, old soldiers were taken out by younger warriors. Dublin were in deep trouble – three points down past the hour – but they never panicked, seeming, above all else, to trust themselves. McManamon’s point to put the Dubs ahead on 70 minutes was the product of great skill, but, as Joe Brolly pointed out, Diarmuid Connolly’s score in injury-time symbolised all that is special about this Dublin team. With his team just a point ahead, Connolly, quite remarkably, dispatched the ball over the bar while on the run. So many other players would have retained possession and not taken the risk of possibly gifting possession to the opposition. I admire Donegal and Tyrone, but honestly, guys in their camps would never have done what Connolly did in that moment. Kerry should feel good about their courageous effort to beat what is a team for the ages. Dublin? Just magnificent. Can Mayo beat them? Yes, it could happen. Mayo have a very good chance. We will return to that subject in the next week or two…!

Monday This morning, it takes me the best part of ten minutes to get from the area around Hannon’s Hotel to what we all call Casey’s roundabout. Why is this? Because of some unexpected, unusual traffic jam, or the dreaded (but necessary) roadworks? No, it’s because ‘Frustrating Motorist’ is in front of me. I’m all for showing patience to other road users, but this

particular ‘Frustrating Motorist’ – and there are many of the species – is testing me. The motorist is driving extremely slowly. Worse, the motorist occasionally brakes suddenly. Braking suddenly is perhaps the most frustrating thing a driver can do. Next, from Hyde Park onwards, the driver begins to sway left and right, which I initially cannot understand. Then I realise – because I have lots of time to work it out – that the driver is avoiding potholes. But the potholes on this road have been filled in. So this extracautious driver is avoiding filled-in potholes! I decide to be sensitive to this driver, but now he/she indicates to turn left (first exit) at Casey’s roundabout. No doubt the driver is thinking ‘all very safe and solid driving.’ But the indicator stays on, and it’s anyone’s guess whether or not the driver will go left in the direction of the Golf Club, or continue on towards McNeill’s roundabout. On he/she goes, towards the latter roundabout, the left indicator still on, the driving ‘speed’ still so slow that a tortoise could safely cross in front – on one leg. The driver takes the second exit at McNeill’s roundabout – indicator still on – but I’m not saying this mystery ‘Frustrating Motorist’ is necessarily from that part of town. And he/she didn’t really get on my nerves that much. But I do wish that drivers wouldn’t brake suddenly and that they would turn their indicators off when the time is right. As for me, maybe, like Bob Geldof, I just don’t like Mondays…

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

CLIMB WITH JOHN!

September 2016

This September John Tobin will attempt to make it to the summit of Croagh Patrick with the assistance of Roscommon Civil Defence, his family and close friends “Sunshine Class” - Creggs NS

In achieving this lifelong goal, John also aims to raise much-needed funds for local beneﬁciaries

In association with

Please donate to www. ifundraise.ie/ climbwithjohn

John to lead elite unit up Croagh Patrick < PEOPLE REPORTER

A Roscommon People investigative reporter was recently given clearance to speak with a member of the highly trained unit preparing to take on Croagh Patrick with John Tobin. This reporter met with the unit member in an undisclosed location on the outskirts of Roscommon town and was briefed on the

John Tobin pictured at Roscommon People offices recently with Emma Healy.

mission which is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 10th. Our source, who will remain anonymous, said: “John will be in a modified wheelchair and will lead a team of twenty elite volunteers. This team of twenty will be broken down into five smaller units of four. There will be one group of four at all times with hands on the wheelchair. There will also be safety lines; nothing will be left to chance.” The source confirmed that the unit had been in intensive training for months and had just returned from a reconnaissance mission on Croagh Patrick. “We’ve just returned from the area, we are at an advanced stage of the mission at this time. This is John’s Everest and we are prepared to make the impossible possible. Discipline is the most important thing and a team of twenty has been chosen in order to pull this off,” he said before disappearing into the shadows. * Before John embarks on his climb of Croagh Patrick, he will host ‘John’s Dance with the Stars’ in the Shearwater Hotel, Ballinasloe on Monday, September 5th, featuring acts such as Gerry Guthrie, Johnny Brady, Barry Kirwan and MC Eunice Moran from Midwest Radio. Tickets are €15 and more details are available on 087-7146901.

Pictured at Roscommon People offices recently were (l-r): John Tobin; Gerry Jago; Roscommon People Managing Editor, Paul Healy, and Roscommon People reporter, Dan Dooner.

Connolly wants parking problems at hospital addressed Independent Councillor, Domnick Connolly, has urged the HSE and Saolta to sort out the parking problems in the vicinity of Roscommon University Hospital. Speaking earlier this week, Cllr. Connolly said: “I have been contacted by local residents in the area of Roscommon Hospital to

highlight the parking problems at that location and I want to call on the HSE and Saolta to provide additional parking spaces in the vicinity of the hospital as soon as possible. “People are parking illegally and blocking residents on an almost daily basis and the situation cannot continue.”

Cllr. Connolly said the problem would only get worse in future. “With the new Endoscopy Unit about to open there will be even more activity at the hospital, and I am calling on the powers-thatbe to provide additional car parking close to the hospital for patients, staff and visitors,” he concluded.

Cllr. Domnick Connolly.

Mick and Mary Byrne pictured with Daniel during his first day at Scoil Mhuire Convent Primary School. Picture: Andrew Fox

Minister for Health ‘to provide clarity’ on Rehab project Senator Frank Feighan has said he is confident that the Minister for Health, Simon Harris, will provide clarity on the Medical Rehab project planned for Roscommon Hospital when the Minister visits the county next Wednesday (7th) to officially open the new €6 million Endoscopy Unit. Senator Feighan said: “From my own representations, Minister Harris is very well aware of the need to ensure the funding of €7.85 million is made available for this Rehab Unit. “The Minister is also very aware of the importance of this project to the people of Roscommon and further afield and I believe he will provide clarity about the status of the project during his visit to the county next week.

“Furthermore, I will also be facilitating a meeting in Dublin with Minister Harris, the Hospital Action Committee and national public representatives on September 29th next. “This will provide an opportunity to attendees to engage with the Minister about this very important project.”

Seantor Frank Feighan.

‘Big Maggie’ on stage in Castlerea Glenamaddy Players will stage John B Keane’s ‘Big Maggie’ this Friday, 2nd of September and Saturday, 3rd of September at Trinity Arts Centre, Castlerea. Doors open at 7.30 pm, show starts at 8 pm. Admission €10 on the door. Raffle on the night will go towards Trinity Arts Centre. As ‘Big Maggie’ is on the English Curriculum for this year’s (2016/17) Leaving Certificate, this is an ideal opportunity for students to see the play performed live by a top class production company. Student concession €5.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

FarmingPeople Castlerea Mart Report There were 680 cattle on offer this week. Quality store cattle were a very lively trade with good demand from feeders, agents and strong farmer activity this week. Bullocks and heifers recorded some very fancy prices on the day while increased number of weanlings are coming on offer due to ground conditions becoming an issue and quality lots were recording the best prices. Sample prices – bullocks: Ch 450kgs €1360 Ch 540kgs €1375 Lm 520kgs €1275 Ch 595kgs €1520 AA 580kgs €1375 Lm 625kgs €1635 Ch 660kgs €1640. Heifers – Lm 400kgs €1070 Ch 370kgs €1050 Ch 495kgs €1290 Lm 475kgs €1190 BBX 620kgs €1495 ch 540kgs €1295. Dry cows: Lm 805kgs €1510 Lm 670kgs €1270 Ch 860kgs €1565 Sim 980kgs €1690 Ch 800kgs €1440. Cows with calves at foot made from €990-€1400 per head. Springers made from €880-€1230 per head. Young calves made from €140-€205 while the stronger type lots made up to €705 in the runner section. Weanling bulls: Ch 295kgs €980 Ch 260kgs €860 Ch 230kgs €800 Ch 640kgs €1490 Ch 350kgs €905. Weanling heifers: Ch 178kgs €655 Lm 285kgs €800 Ch 360kgs €1035 Ch 390kgs €1120. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday with our usual sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am, with three rings in operation.

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

TOM ROGERS

(Serving Farmers for over 57 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Bullocks, Heifers, Weanlings, Suckler Cows & Dry Cows Every Friday at 11a.m. -------

Fall/Autumn Special Sale of Heifers Friday, September 2nd at 11 a.m. Also Bullocks & Dry Cows ------------

Fall/Autumn Special Sale of Bullocks Sweet ladies: Mary O’Grady, Linda Keogh, Anna Flanagan, Gertie McDermott, Carmel Gacquin and Lilian McDonald, pictured at Roscommon Show. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Fall/Autumn Special Sale of Heifers Friday, September 16th at 11a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5p.m. on Tuesday 6th, Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th. Also Bullocks and Dry Cows ----------

Fall/Autumn Show & Sale of Weanlings

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

Kieran Coughlan, Ferbane, Co. Offaly, had Champion Vendeen Sheep at Roscommon Show, and is pictured here with judge TJ Gormley. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon Mart Report

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

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Friday September 9th at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. Thursday, September 1st Also Heifers & Dry Cows -----------

Cattle prices – Friday, August 26th: There were slightly increased numbers on offer this week. There was a steady trade for bullocks with no change in prices from last week. There was a slightly easier trade for heifers but the majority of lots were sold. The trade for dry cows was similar to the previous week. Special sale of heifers tomorrow (Friday 2nd) at 11 am. 100 pens on offer – also bullocks and dry cows. Cattle must be penned by 10 am to be included in the draw. The fall/autumn special sale of bullocks will take place on Friday, September 9th and bookings are accepted up to 5 pm today (Thursday 1st). Dry cows made from €870 to €1,280. Sample prices: Lim 710 kgs €1,280, AAX 720 kgs €1,205, Lim X 700 kgs €1,200, HEX 740 kgs €1,165, BBX 720 kgs €1,165, Simm X 645 kgs €1,035, Sh 680 kgs €975, HEX 450 kgs €870. Heifers made from €420 to €790 over. Sample prices: Char X 665 kgs €1,435, Char X 645 kgs €1,365, Simm X 630 kgs €1,320, Char X 575 kgs €1,320, BBX 505 kgs €1,170, BBX 440 kgs €1,120,Char X 395 kgs €970, 2 Char X 345 kgs €930. Bullocks made from € 495 to €790 over. Sample prices: Simm X 650 kgs €1,410, Char X 545 kgs €1,300, BAX 500 kgs €1,290, 3 Char X 486 kgs €1,235, AAX 585 kgs €1,180, BBX 460 kgs €1,120, Lim X 375 kgs €910, BBX 335 kgs €830. Breeding ewes – Saturday, August 27th: There was another large sale of top quality breeding stock on offer this week. There was an excellent trade for breed-

ing ewes with prices well up on the previous week with a pen of 2 year old ewes fetching €192. Breeding hoggets were on a par with the previous week with a pen making €210. Sales for breeding sheep continue weekly on Saturdays at 11 am. Gates open at 8 am. Show and sale of pedigree vendeen rams on Saturday (3rd) at 1.30 pm. Hoggets ranged from €115 to €210 per head. 2-year-old ewes made from €130 to €192 per head. 3-year-old Ewes made from €110 to €150 per head Sheep sale – Wednesday, August 31st: There were smaller numbers on offer this week. There was a lively trade for heavy lambs. There was a good demand for light store lambs. There was a large number of ewe lambs present with a pen of ewe lambs making as high as €121. The trade for cast ewes was on a par with the previous week. Sales continue each Wednesday at 11 am for lambs and cast ewes. Please note that ewe lambs will be sold separately. Show and sale of lambs is on Wednesday, September 7th at 11 am. Sample prices - Mixed lambs: 51.50kgs €108, 51.60kgs €108, 48 kgs €107, 52.50kgs €106, 51.2 kgs €107, 51.3 kgs €102. Store lambs: 44.70kgs €90, 37.80 kgs €80, 37 kgs €75, 34.5kgs €80, 36.80kgs €80. Ewe lambs: 50.80kgs €121, 48.40kgs €120, 49.80kgs €117, 54.70kgs €115, 44.70kgs €114, 48kgs €110, 43.1kgs €105, 47.10kgs €105, 49.2kgs €105, 50.30kgs €100. Cast ewes made from €50 to €115 per lot.

Tuesday, September 6th at 5 p.m. Gates open at 1 p.m. Judging at 3 p.m. 2 Sales Rings -------------------------Show Weanlings must be born in 2016 in exhibitors own herd. Prizes: 1st €100, 2nd: €65, 3rd: €40 Class 1: Best Bull Weanling Class 2: Best Two Bull Weanlings Class 3: Best Heifer Weanling Class 4: Best Pen of Heifer Weanlings (Minimum of 4, Maximum of 8) Champion Weanling of Show The Pat Memorial Cup (Kindly sponsored by the Society’s Auctioneers) & €200 will be awarded to the winner of the Champion Weanling of the Show. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, September 1st -------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Each Wednesday – 11.am. Please note Ewe Lambs will be sold separately --------

Show & Sale of Lambs

Wednesday, September 7th at 11 a.m. Gates open at 7.30 a.m. Sponsored by Paddy Coffey & Sons Lecarrow, Roscommon Class 1: Best Pen of 10 or more Store Lambs Class 2: Best pen of 10 or more Ewe lambs suitable for Breeding Class 3: Best Pen of 10 or more Finished Lambs Prizes: 1st: €100, 2nd: €65, 3rd: €40 Special prize for the Exhibitor of the Best Pen of Galway/ Roscommon Ewe Lambs --------------

Breeding Ewes and Hoggets

Each Saturday at 11 a.m. Gates open at 8 a.m. ----------

Show & Sale of Pedigree Vendeen Sheep

This Saturday, September 3rd. Sale 1.30pm ---------------------------------

Please visit our website and facebook for full details of our Autumn Sales 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

Find us on facebook

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

FarmingPeople

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

PUBLIC MEETING FOR FARMERS on

NEW TO THE MARKET

FLOODING, LIVE EXPORTS, IMPACT OF BREXIT ON FARMING & CAP

A QUALITY 3 B/R SEMI DETACHED RESIDENCE OF C. 1,245 SQ. FT LOCATED AT

Thursday, 8 September 2016

OPEN VIEWINGS THURSDAY 8TH SEPTEMBER FROM 5:30 – 6:30PM

10 KILDALLOGUE HEIGHTS, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON Price Guide: €65,000 ono to sell

Athlone Springs Hotel at 8pm GUEST SPEAKERS: Minister Denis Naughten TD Matt Carthy MEP, Kevin Boxer Moran TD, Michael Fitzmaurice TD, Micheal Maxwell - live exporter, Eddie Punch - ICSA General Secretary

ALL FARMERS WELCOME

Important meeting for farmers in Athlone on September 8th ICSA Roscommon chairman Ger Grehan, right, has said that farmers are not getting a fair share of the retail price paid for their produce. This is just one of the issues Mr Grehan wishes to address at an upcoming ICSA regional public meeting to be held in the AthICSA Roscommon lone Springs Hotel on Thursday, 8 chairman Ger Grehan September 2016 at 8pm. Other items on the agenda include flooding, live exports and the implications of Brexit on the farming sector. An impressive line-up of guest speakers has been confirmed: Denis Naughten, TD (Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources); Matt Carthy, MEP; Kevin Boxer Moran, TD; Michael Fitzmaurice, TD; Micheal Maxwell (Live Exporter); Eddie Punch (ICSA General Secretary). Mr Grehan said “We want to send a strong message to government and to the EU Commission that we need urgent action to deal with the crisis in farming. Virtually all farm commodity prices are below the cost of production. We as farmers can’t continue producing food year after year without any degree of certainty as to what price we are going to achieve at farm gate level. Legislation needs to be enacted to ensure farmers get a fairer share of the retail price.” Continuing Mr Grehan said “Everybody except the farmer is making a decent living out of what we produce. In the last CAP reform any farmer receiving EU payments over €270/ha is seeing their payment go down steadily in five steps from 2015 to 2019. We as producers are left totally dependent on EU payments for our net income, and on many of our farms we cannot even retain all of those payments as net income. This is certainly not sustainable long term, we can’t maintain and grow a business in the long term or expect young people to enter the sector with such a bleak outlook. Farmers are the primary producers that put in all the hard work, put in all their money and carry all the risk. While food doesn’t need to get any more expensive, the powers that be need to wake up and ensure fair play for farmers. Our EU agriculture commissioner Phil Hogan stated sometime back that he was going to introduce new EU rules to the effect that would enable the primary producer, namely the farmer, get a fairer share of the retail price. In addition, he said he wanted to tackle the powers of the supermarkets and the meat processors. However, we still await those changes.” In conclusion, Mr Grehan said “Successive governments have told us we need to increase production to feed the expected growth in world population. It is expected there will be an extra one billion people in the world over the next 20 years or so. Thus, the government came up with the slogan of Food Harvest 2020 to increase production. When met those targets early they came up with a new slogan of Food Wise 2025 to further increase production. The message we want to send back to government loud and clear should be ‘Survival 2020’ for the farmer. When we have overproduction in any commodity farm wise or in other areas, there is only one way price goes and that is downwards. We in ICSA believe that what we need to do is control production so that the government will wake up and ensure a fairer deal for the farmers of Ireland and indeed Europe.”

Ardsallagh Beg, Athlone Road, Co. Roscommon

Final offers after €190,000 for a quality 4 bed at Ardsallagh Beg David Diffley of Property Partners Earley Roscommon, is this week inviting final offers after €190,000 for a quality four bedroomed detached residence of 1,845 sq.ft. located at Ardsallagh Beg, Athlone Road, Co. Roscommon. David told the Roscommon People that the property is: “A most attractive and primely located four bedroomed detached residence of 1,845 sq.ft. with the benifit of a spacious detached garage set to the side. “The residence is located in a select residential location adjacent to Roscommon

University Hospital and Roscommon town. Accommodation briefly comprises of: A reception/hallway, sitting room, living room, kitchen, sunroom, WC, four bedrooms in all with master ensuite and family bathroom. The auctioneers now invite fnal offers after €190,000 to sell.” For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact David Diffley MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley, Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090 66 26579, log onto www.propertypartners.ie or email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie.

Prime farm at Mullymux John Earley FIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon, is this week offering to the market: Sale of a renowned superior quality, dual purpose farm of lands containing 52.78 acres with entitlements and greening passing (estimated €5,000) located in the townland of Mullymux. This is without doubt one of the finest parcels of quality limestone lands all set out in permanent grass to come on the market in recent times in

a superb location just off the main N61 Boyle route and only 3.5 km from Roscommon town. Standing on the lands are a range of farm buildings; a 2 bay back to back stock shed, a

roofed storage shed, a 26 cubicle shed, a sheep dipping tub, cattle crush and pen, a silage slab and farm yard with storage shed off together with a four roomed old stone residence of 1,000 sq. ft. with an orchard set to the side. The residence would make an ideal restoration project. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and enquiries for this most superior dual-purpose farm. For more details call the office on 090 6626579.

Two prime Lecarrow sites for sale John Earley FIPAV of Property Partners Earley Roscommon, is this offering new to the market; two premium building sites containing 0.261 acres each being sold with the benefit of OPP thereon located at Knockanyconor, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon (just off the main N61). Price guide: €60,000 each ono to sell. John describes the site as: “Two highly attractive and extremely well located building sites situated within walking distance of Lecarrow village and Lecarrow canal on the River Shannon and the amenity area. “The ssites have the benefit of outline planning permission thereon granted under PD16/150 and are located close to Roscom-

A primely located 3 B/R semi-detached property located in the sought after Kildallogue Heights development adjacent to Strokestown and all amenities. The said property is presented for sale in good condition throughout and offers spacious living accommodation throughout. Due to size and location, the said property would make an ideal family residence or investment property. BER: D1. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. LEGAL: HUGH MCGARRY, MESSERS GEORGE LYNCH & SON, CARRICK-ON-SHANNON, CO. LEITRIM. 071 96 20017. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FINAL OFFERS INVITED A SUBSTANTIAL 15 B/R FORMER CONVENT PROPERTY OF C. 8,500 SQ. FT LOCATED AT

PATRICK STREET, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON FINAL VIEWINGS ON WEDNESDAY 7th SEPTEMBER FROM 6 – 7 pm FINAL OFFERS INVITED BY 12 NOON ON FRIDAY 9th SEPTEMBER

Property Partners Earley are delighted to present to the market this comprehensive 8,500 sq.ft building located in the heart of Castlerea Town. The unique property commands a strategic location adjacent to the schools and main thoroughfare affording great potential standing on a C. 0.6 acre site. The ground floor comprises briefly of entrance/hallway, 2 no. reception rooms, chapel, toilets, work rooms, kitchen areas, cloakrooms. The upper floors comprise of 15 no bedrooms, 3 reception rooms and toilets. Exterior includes garden area, garage & storage. BER: Exempt. The Auctioneer invites final viewings and final offers to sell. LEGAL: BRENDAN L JOHNSON, JOHNSON & JOHNSON SOLICITORS, BALLYMOTE, CO. SLIGO. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET A QUALITY 4 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF C. 1,400 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

GALLOWSTOWN, BESIDE ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON Price Guide: €140,000 ono to sell

mon and Athlone towns. The Auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and all offers to sell.” To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley FIPAV,

Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie/earley.

A spacious detached residence located in a select residential area adjacent to Roscommon town and all amenities. Standing on a large site area of c. 0.39 of an acre, the property enjoys a private setting and offers spacious living accommodation throughout. BER: C1. The auctioneers invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MEADOW/SILAGE TO LET c.13.6 acres located at Funshinagh, Rahara, Co. Roscommon. Enquiries invited.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

PropertyPeople Bungalow in great location! This week, Hughes & Company are offering for sale at The Walk, Roscommon; an impressive four bedroomed bungalow on a corner site. The residence is finished to a high standard and located in a prominent location. Accommodation consists of: A sitting room, kitchen cum dining room, four bedrooms with one en-suite and a large garage to the side. Offers in excess of €200,000 are being considered. For further details contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom.net.

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

*****URGENTLY REQUIRED ***** All types of property are urgently required in and around the Roscommon area. Due to a lot of recent sales. Hughes & Company require properties for disappointed under bidders. If you are thinking of buying or selling contact Pat, let him advise you, his advice is free. Please contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom.net ------------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY or public auction at a later date A landmark building, circa 2,500 sq ft at

CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON, FORMERLY THE OLD AIB BANK

PSRA Licence Number 002782

NEW TO MARKET – FOR SALE BY AUCTION 2 No. semi-detached homes, presented in good order

The Walk, Roscommon

Great opportunity in Castlerea! REA Seamus Carthy Roscommon are this week offering a commercial property in Castlerea town centre. This is considered an excellent commercial opportunity that will be of interest to owner-occupiers and investors as property is ready for immediate use. A commercial building, fully-fitted out for office use, situated on Patrick Street, convenient to all local facilities. Comprising a reception area, three offices, a tea station and toilet facility with a selfcontained ground floor office with reception room,

*****URGENTLY REQUIRED ***** For a cash customer, a residence on circa 10 – 20 acres within 5 miles of Roscommon Town. All enquiries will be made in confidence. ------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY OR PUBLIC AUCTION AT A LATER DATE circa 52 acres at

MILLTOWN AND BALLYGLASS, DYSART, CO. ROSCOMMON for the reps of the late Patrick J Mulvee. Most of the lands are of top quality and located in a renowned farming area and only a short distance off the main Ballinalsoe to Dysart Road convenient to Dysart Village. This must be of interest to local farmers. The lands will be offered for sale in three lots as follows:• Lot 1: Circa 33.5 acres at Milltown with excellent road frontage and an old derelict cottage there on. • Lot 2: Circa 15.5 acres at Ballyglass with excellent road frontage. • Lot 3: Circa 3 acres of Bog located at Cartonkelly, Dysart LEGAL: MR. RODDY MCCRANN, THOMAS V MCCRANN SOLICITORS, CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON. PHONE: 09066 26269 ------------------------------------------------------------------------

MEADOW TO LET • The Company has meadow to let in a number of different areas in and around the Roscommon area. Can be let per bale. • Circa 30 acres convenient to Tulsk Village. Can be let at €7 per bale.

NEW TO MARKET 4.78 Hectares/11.8 Acres

Derreendorragh, Trien, Castlerea, Roscommon

FINAL OFFERS INVITED 2 prime parcels of land comprising of 1.7 acres and 1.28 acres respectively. With substantial road frontage and all services nearby, obvious potential exists for the development of a one off residence on each parcel, subject to planning

Lisacul, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon ENQUIRIES AND FINAL OFFERS INVITED. Each parcel of land can be sold separately should market interest dictate.

office and WC facilities. Enquiries and offers invited to sell: €70,000 ono. For further details contact

REA Seamus Carthy, Roscommon on 090 66 30001, email: seamus@reacarthy. ie.

Seamus Carthy of REA Seamus Carthy is inviting final enquiries to lease a high profile retail unit measuring 178 sq.mtrs. of modern construction, offering openplan, high-spec retail accommodation in the heart of Roscommon town with free on-street and public car parking readily available. The location is unrivalled and Roscommon town’s best retail location is now available. Enquiries now invited. Contact REA Seamus Carthy today to arrange viewing on 090 6630001 or email: seamus@reacarthy.ie

Three bed bungalow on elevated site This three bed bungalow comes to the market in excellent condition both internally and externally on the outskirts of Ballygar town, in the quiet residential area of Ruane. The property sits on a mature, elevated site of approximately 0.5 acres overlooking the town. The gardens are in pristine condition and are maintained to a very high standard by the current owner with a range of flower and shrubbery beds. The rear garden is also elevated with laid lawns and mature trees surrounding. There is a garage of approximately 12’x 10’ along

RESERVE €40,000 PER PROPERTY CONTACT REA SEAMUS CARTHY, 090 66 30001

Laid out in two separate lots and divided by way of a public road, each lot benefiting from good road frontage. Will be of interest to local farmers and forestry owners. Immediate enquiries advised and on the market now to sell. Offers invited for entire or individual lots CONTACT SOLE SELLING AGENTS REA SEAMUS CARTHY, 090 66 30001

High proﬁle unit in Roscommon town The building is currently laid out into offices with Commercial Potential on the ground floor. Offers in excess of €250,000 are being considered For further detail or an appointment to view please contact the Office on 090 6627003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom.net LEGAL: MR. BOB WALSH, SOLICITOR, MCGOVERN WALSH & CO. SOLICITORS, PEARSE PLAZA, PEARSE ROAD, SLIGO, CO. SLIGO. PHONE:- 071 9144363 ------------------------------------------------------------------------

10 & 11 Sli na Sruthan, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon Auction 12th September

with a wooden shed to the rear and side of the residence. The gated entrance leads to a fully kerbed and tarmacadamed driveway which extends to the rear. Accommodation consists of: A reception hallway, sitting room, kitchen, living/ dining room, utility room, three double bedrooms and

Ruane, Ballygar

main bathroom. Viewing comes highly recommended. For further details and viewing contact the office on 090-6663700. (Viewings at evenings or weekends can be arranged for any property with Connaughton Auctioneers). Visit our website www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

CONTACT SOLE SELLING AGENTS REA SEAMUS CARTHY, 090 66 30001

ROSCOMMON TOWN. T: 090 66 30001 W: www.reacarthy.ie

Convent Court townhouse up for sale At Convent Court, Roscommon, Hughes & Co are offering for sale; a two bedroomed townhouse, which is currently let. Offers in excess of €120,000 are being considered. If you are thinking of buying or selling, talk to Pat, let him advise you, his advice is free. For further details on any property on offer with Pat Hughes and company you can contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom.net.

Porteen, Dysart, Co. Roscommon

20 acres for €120,000 at Dysart! Hughes and Company have for sale at Porteen, Dysart, Co. Roscommon; A 20-acre residential farm. The lands are laid out in a number of different lots while the residence is in need of total modernisation. Offers in excess of €120,000 are being considered for this property. For further details contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom.net.

37 acres for sale on the Ballinagard Road Hughes & Company are offering for sale this week at Ballinagard Road, Roscommon; A 37 acre residential farm. Accommodation consists of a two bedroomed bungalow which can be sold on ten acres or on a small plot if required. It also includes a five acre field located at the Ballinagard Road, 12.5 acres at Ballymartin More and approximately 10 acres at Bolinree. The lands can be sold in various lots to suit perspective purchasers. This would be an ideal opportunity for a local farmer to acquire a nice compact farm convenient to Roscommon town. For further details contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail phughes2@eircom.net.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

●

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

Kon Tiki Bar and Restaurant on market The Kon Tiki Bar and Restaurant along with a function room and three-bedroomed private residence on a 1.2 acre elevated site is up for sale, reports local auctioneer, Frank Regan.The Kon-Tiki, a mecca to the followers of the magical ballad band and social scene so popular throughout the seventies and on into the late eighties, brought glamour, excitement and celebrities to the hitherto quiet townland of Drumman More, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon.

A sense of adventure pervaded as its patrons soaked up the excitement of the Wolf Tones, The Fureys, The Dubliners, Ronnie Drew and the stars of the entertainment world. The Kon Tiki has been closed for some time now but the premises has marvellous potential for a private residence or as a 7-day licensed guesthouse cum restaurant. For more information, contact Frank Regan Auctioneers on 043-3350000 or log onto www.dng.ie.

Final offers invited on Kilteeven residence

Connaughton Auctioneers now invite final offers by Friday, 9th September on this spacious four bed dormer residence. This spacious residence standing on 0.65 acres is in excellent condition throughout with garage to the rear. There are also foundations complete for outbuildings to the rear with sand arena adjacent. The property has a traditional stone wall to the front, laid lawns, driveway kerbed and tarmacademed, with post and rail fencing to sides and rear all located a mere 2 miles from Roscommon town. Accommodation includes; ground floor: porch to front, reception hallway, sitting room, living room, kitchen/dining room, utility, downstairs WC and bedroom with

NEW TO THE MARKET

FOR SALE

SPACIOUS FOUR BEDROOM RESIDENCE ON C. 0.5 ACRES

FOUR BED BUNGALOW WITH GARAGE

COOLDERRY, FOUR ROADS, CO. ROSCOMMON • Exceptionally large bungalow with potential for dormer • Large garden to side and rear with laid lawns • Oil fired central heating – Four zone heating • Driveway kerbed and stoned • Wired for alarm • Complete to builders finish • Located adjacent to Four Roads village • Viewing comes highly recommended Price Region: On Application For further details contact the office on

BUSHFIELD, CASTLEPLUNKETT, CO. ROSCOMMON

• Attractive four bed bungalow • Standing on c. 0.55 acre corner site • Timber decking to rear • Large gardens including vegetable garden • Garage to rear c. 22’ x 13’9” • Entrances to front and side • Private well water Price Region: €140,000 For further details contact the office on 090-6663700

WEEKEND VIEWINGS AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT

ensuite bathroom. First floor: three bedrooms in all with one ensuite bathroom and main bathroom. There is an opportunity to purchase an extra 0.8 acres of land with this

property. Contact the office for further information and to arrange a viewing on this property. Visit our website www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie.

Life is busy with everyone working the daily 9am - 5pm grind! If you would like to organise a Viewing on any of our properties at the weekends we can accomodate you. We can also value your property for sale free. For all your property requirements and advice contact any member of our team. No sale, no fee! Go with your leading estate agent for property sales in Roscommon/Galway. We currently require property in all locations for both Irish and UK buyers Athleague, Co. Roscommon, Ph: 09066 63700, M: 086 898 5013/086 171 3417 Www.connaughtonauctioners.ie • Info@ivanconnaughton.com

Plenty on offer at Sean Naughton Auctioneers! Sean Naughton Auctioneer is delighted to return to the market due to cancelation a four bedroom bungalow at The Walk, Roscommon town, situated on a 1/3 acre site, just a ten minute walk from the town centre. Accommodation includes: kitchen, living/dining room, four bedrooms, utility and bathroom. The property has built in wardrobes in bedrooms and OFCH. There are large mature shrubs to the front of the property and a large mature garden to the rear. Viewing is highly recommended. Offers in the region of €160,000. Also on offer this week is a five bedroomed bungalow at Cloonconra, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon situated in

Sean Naughton MIPAV COMMISSIONER FOR OATHS, AUCTIONEERS, VALUERS, ESTATE AGENTS THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TEL: (090) 6625080 ((offi office ce)) Mob: 087 2479486 — Fax: (090) 6627161 Email: seannaughton@eircom.net

RETURN TO THE MARKET - DUE TO CANCELLATION For Sale by Private Treaty

The Walk, Roscommon Town 4 Bedroom Detached Bungalow on large site at The Walk, Roscommon town in a much sought after area. Accommodation consists of Kitchen, Living/Dining Room, 4 Bedrooms, Utility and Bathroom. Offers in the Region of €160,000

----------------------------------------------------------------------FINAL OFFERS - For Sale by Private Treaty 72 Acres of Forestry Land at

Curraghmore, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon There is an existing plantation on the land of between 12 to 15 years old. This land would be ideally situated for a number of uses such as Wildlife Sanctuary, Gun Range, Airport. Price on Application. Final Offers to be submitted to the office on or before Friday 16th September at 5pm.

a prime location, just two miles from Lough Ree on the River Shannon. Accommodation includes: A living room, sitting room, kitchen, dining room, utility room, toilet, 5 bedrooms (1 en-suite with walk-in wardrobe) and bathroom. The property is surrounded by large, well-maintained landscaped gardens with mature trees and shrubbery, and to the rear is a large workshop and garage. This property has recently been refurbished throughout and come to the market in pristine condition. Viewing is highly recommended. Price on application. Final offers are now been accepted on 72 acres of forestry land at Curraghmore, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon. This land had 12 to 15 year old plantation on it, It would seem ideally situated for a number of uses such as a wildlife sanctuary, gun range and as this land is situated so close to the River Shannon it could be developed as a theme park. This land is located 3km from Athlone with a large catchment area. Shopping amenities include Athlone Town Centre, Golden Island Shopping Centre, Dunnes Stores, Aldi and Lidl. Athlone has number tourist amenities such as a marina for cruisers on the River Shannon, Athlone Castle, Clonmacnoise Monastery and Bay sports and is very popular with tourists This land would offer an ideal investment for the right investor with a vision for the area. Price on application. Final offers to be submitted to the office on or before Friday, 16th of September. Also on offer this week is a residence and lands for sale in lots at Curraghroe, Lanesboro Co. Roscommon. Lot 1: Old residence on 1 acre with sheds. Option to purchase further land if required. Offers in the region of €32,000. Lot 2: 11 acres of land at Curraghroe, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon. Offers in the region of €45,000. Lot 3: 10 acres of land at Curraghroe, Lanesboro, Co. Roscommon. Price on application. Sean Naughton Auctioneers now urgently require houses for sale and rent in all areas of Roscommon for disappointed under-bidders. We also require 30-acre residential farm within 10 miles of Roscommon town. For further information on all properties, please contact the Sean Naughton Auctioneers in strictest confidence on 090 6625080 or email seannaughton@eircom.net.

FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION LANDS AT

CLOONEIGH, ELPHIN, CO. ROSCOMMON C. 24.7 acres of Prime Fattening Lands

Consisting of c. 24.7 acres of good quality lands at Clooneigh, Elphin, Co. Roscommon in a prime location close to the towns of Elphin, Tulsk and Strokestown. This farm contains some of the finest mineral soil fattening lands in the region, with extensive road frontage, is well serviced with a cattle handling pin, water and fencing along with the remains of a traditional stone cottage.

In The Central Bar, Elphin, Co. Roscommon Friday 2nd September at 3.00pm Maps and further information available on request LEGALS: JOAN H DEVINE & CO, SOLICITORS, BRIDGE ST, STROKESTOWN, CO ROSCOMMON PHONE: 071-9634608

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

NewsPeople

SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Like a king making ready for battle or a contractor about to build a tower, we have to count the cost as we set out to follow Jesus. Our Lord today is telling us upfront the sacrifice it will take. His words aren’t addressed to His chosen few, the Twelve, but rather to the “great crowds” – to “anyone,” to “whoever” wishes to be His disciple. That only makes His call all the more stark and uncompromising. We are to “hate” our old lives, renounce all the earthly things we rely upon, to choose Him above every person and possession. Again He tells us that the things we have – even our family ties and obligations – can become an excuse, an obstacle that keeps us from giving ourselves completely to Him (see Luke 9:23-26, 57-62). Jesus brings us the saving Wisdom we are promised in today’s First Reading. He is that saving Wisdom. Weighed down by many earthly concerns, the burdens of our body and its needs, we could never see beyond the things of this world, could never detect God’s heavenly design and intention. So in His mercy He sent us His Spirit, His Wisdom from on High, to make straight our path to Him. Jesus himself paid the price for to free us from the sentence imposed on Adam, which we recall in today’s Psalm (see Genesis 2:7; 2:19). No more will the work of our hands be an affliction, no more are we destined to turn back to dust. Like Onesimus in today’s Epistle, we have been redeemed, given a new family and a new inheritance, made children of the father, brothers and sisters in the Lord. We are free now to come after Him, to serve Him – no longer slaves to the ties of our past lives. In Christ, all our yesterdays have passed. We live in what the Psalm today beautifully describes as the daybreak of His kindness. For He has given us wisdom of heart, taught us to number our days aright. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www. salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

FRANKLY

SPEAKING

FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

Falling for the opposite sex…literally! For ever and ever, since the days of Adam and Eve, men have done all kinds of strange and sometimes outrageous things in the often vain attempt to impress some member of the opposite sex and it seems that over in Pittsburgh,

Pennsylvania the tradition is still alive and well. Last week, an unidentified man (lucky for him I’d say, as he’d have got some slagging if his name came out), got trapped between two buildings after he tried to jump from one

roof to another, in a bid to impress a woman he had just met. It took four hours to rescue him after he fell into the narrow rubbish filled space between the buildings and the rescue crews had to cut a hole through a wall in a res-

taurant to get him out! He reportedly had a broken ankle, probably also damaged his pride and ego but still managed to wave at television cameras as he was wheeled to a waiting ambulance. There is no report as to whether

or not he managed to win the affections of his mystery lady but I sincerely hope his stunt was not in vain, as he could truly say he had fallen for her charms. Maybe next time he should buy a bunch of flowers!

Hard to imagine Italian devastation

Not all Rose-y in Tralee! As we all know, for many years now the Rose of Tralee contest has managed to keep itself above the tackier beauty contests, like Miss World and Miss Universe by acknowledging that there is more to the modern lady than just bathing suits and beauty. To be fair to the contestants: they are always intelligent, capable women and it must be said that this year the Roscommon Rose, Aisling McNeill, was a superb representative for her county. However, this year the organisers definitely got it wrong by allowing the television

cameras film a documentary which showed the 65 girls being separated into two groups, in two different rooms and then shown the reaction of the 33 girls who failed to make the live shows. The disappointment was terrible for these poor girls and in my opinion totally insensitive and not necessary. I am glad to see, maybe for the first year ever that two of the Roses, the Down Rose Fainche McCormack and the Sydney Rose Brianna Parkins have come out and slammed the organisers for allowing the documentary, which they

branded as disgusting and cruel. The Down Rose had some other pretty harsh things to say about the whole thing and while there is no such thing as bad publicity, I’m sure the people in charge will make sure that the documentary or at least the part showing the selection process will never happen again. It’s a tricky business getting such a massive event to pass off without a hitch so I suppose an odd slip up isn’t too bad but it does show that sometimes as they say; ‘if it’s not broke, don’t fix it!’

Not so easy going on Easy Jet! Sticking with strange incidents, this week an Easy Jet flight from London Gatwick to Belfast was delayed for two hours as two members of the crew had to be escorted off the flight as they had a fight over the unwrapping of water bottles. The plane was actually taxiing on the runway when the row broke out so they had to turn back and get rid of the two crewmembers, presumably for good and wait for two replacements before the flight could take off. The dance group, Disclosure, was among the passengers and they were not too happy that a tiff between two of

the cabin crew could cause such a major inconvenience! Surely they could have sorted it out as the London to Belfast flight wouldn’t take very long but it seems it couldn’t be done. An Easy Jet spokesperson commented, saying passenger safety and welfare was their main consideration and they said that in order to deliver that their crew had to work as a team, which wasn’t the case in this instance. I’ve been delayed on runways by fog and the Icelandic dust and traffic jams but thank God a staff row has never kept me grounded.

As I drove to work this morning, I tried to imagine the horror that the people of central Italy are going through at the moment and passing through Creggs and Athleague, I tried to think what would the reaction be if those villages and the villages of Ballygar, Glenamaddy, Ballymoe and a number of others were to be flattened to the ground, while their inhabitants slept in their beds in the middle of the night. It is almost beyond our comprehension and maybe that’s a good thing that it is so hard to understand the sheer scale of the tragedy that has happened overnight out of the blue on an unsuspecting and helpless community. With all the developments in science over the last number of years, I would have thought it should be possible to predict such disasters or at least have an idea as to where they might occur. Even when I was in school, a long time ago now I can remember that central Italy was recognised as a volatile, unstable area and on that basis surely it should have been under permanent monitoring. With that, I was only thinking about the material and structural damage and not about the terrible death toll which has seen hundreds of lives lost in a small country area. Again, it is hard to imagine the total sense of devastation, grief and loss that has befallen the inhabitants of these mountainous villages and at this point in time it’s hard to believe that those who survived the terrible events will ever return to normal. I know there are many calls on our money but if anyone comes to you for a bit of financial aid for these poor people, let us do what we can for our European neighbours.

Flying the ﬂag in Tipperary On Sunday evening, as the Dubs were once more putting the Kerry lads in their place, I was, along with my good wife Carol, making my way down through the country to the absolutely beautiful Glen of Aherlow, in Co. Tipperary. On Thursday night I had a couple of quiet pints in Mikeen’s and his wife Carmel told me that the town of Roscrea was a sight to behold, with all the Tipperary flags and buntings that were flying around the town. Now you would think that having been forewarned I would not have been surprised at what I saw but there was one estate, on the Templemore Road, that quite literally was a sea of blue and yellow. Never, even in Mayo when they got to their first All-Ireland for a long time in 1989 and when they almost painted the county green and red, have I seen anything like it. Let’s hope it all bears fruit in a few weeks’ time and please God they will get the better of their mortal enemies, the Kilkenny Cats, in the All-Ireland hurling final. Hopefully followed by the Mayo footballers later in September. As I write this, I am surrounded by the Galtee Mountains and with the glorious weather we’ve had once again it proves that there is no place like Ireland when the sun shines.

Couple attend their own funerals It’s been a strange week, because over in Bosnia, Dragan Maric, 61, and his wife Dragica decided to have their own funerals, even though obviously they haven’t died yet. They sent invites out to friends and relatives to the pretend funeral and more than 200 people turned up. They said that as they had no children to organise a proper funeral, they decided to do it themselves and they wanted to celebrate their lives with friends and family. It mightn’t be such a bad idea but it would be very embarrassing if nobody turned up! At least if you waited till you were really gone, you wouldn’t know if anyone came to say farewell, so I won’t be sending out invites any time soon!

Support your local dance Finally for this week, the big dance on the 1st of October in Dowd’s, Glinsk for Cancer Care West and the Lourdes Invalid fund with music by The Lancers is getting ever closer so for the next few weeks we will be knocking at your doors, hoping for your usual kind greetings and your financial support. Sometimes I don’t think we realise how lucky we are.

‘Till next week, Bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150

20-page Special Souvenir Edition

YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Wishing the 150th Strokestown Show every success

Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

The Silver Eel Grange, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Telephone: (071) 9633299 www.silvereel.ie

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Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

Top chefs to serve up a treat! < DAN DOONER

The ‘Flavours from the Heart of Ireland’ Food & Drinks Fair is new to the Strokestown Show this year. Featuring award-winning chefs Neven Maguire, Gary O’Hanlon, Vincent Meldrum, Kenny Sheridan and Neil Reid, it promises to be one of the highlights of the show. Neven Maguire is from Co. Cavan and took over the family restaurant in 2003. Neven attended Enniskillen College of Food and upon graduating, he worked in several Michelin starred restaurants in Europe, starting in Berlin. Neven is a regular contributor to the Marian Finucane Show on RTE Radio 1 and also writes a weekly column in the Irish Farmers Journal. He has also made television appearances on Tubridy Tonight, The Late Late Show and The Restaurant, among others. Gary O’Hanlon hails from Ramelton, near Letterkenny, and has been delighting visitors to VM Restaurant (Longford)

since he became head chef in 2008. Gary was head chef at Devlin’s Restaurant and Bar in Boston and has fused his knowledge of traditional Irish cooking with the skills he honed there. Vincent Meldrum is a native of Hazelwood in County Sligo and graduated from Killybegs Catering College in 1993. He was the head chef in the Purple Onion, Tarmonbarry for 11 years, before becoming head chef in the Aubergine Café in Co. Longford. Neil Reid is from Dublin and was a contestant on ‘The Great Irish Bake Off’ in 2015, reaching the quarter-finals. His carrot cake was hailed as “unreal” and “stunning” by the judges and Neil will be showing visitors to Strokestown how he makes it during the show. Finally, Kenny Sheridan will be no stranger to regular visitors to Strokestown as he is the current head chef at The Percy French Hotel. He’ll be bringing some local favourites to the event this year.

Neil Reid.

Vincent Meldrum.

Neven Maguire.

Gary O’Hanlon.

CURRY, STROKESTOWN

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Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show

Massey Ferguson Dealer for Co. Roscommon

Ann Hogan, Dan Dooner, Margaret Kelly and Gemma Flanagan at the offices of the Roscommon People. Picture: Andrew Fox

New this year! Strokestown welcomes ‘Flavours from Heart of Ireland’ < DAN DOONER

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Johnston Farm Equipment Ltd Longford Ph: 043 33 41951 www.johnston.ie

To mark the 150th Anniversary of the Strokestown Show, it was decided to add ‘Flavours from the Heart of Ireland’ – a food and drinks fair which will take place across the weekend. I recently spoke to the three hard-working ladies who have been busy planning and preparing for the fair since last May. Organisers Margaret Kelly, Gemma Flanagan and Anna Hogan said that while this will be the fair’s debut, it is hoped that the event will become a mainstay of the show for years to come. Margaret said: “It’s been a lot of work because it’s the first time (for the fair) – you’re trying to make the contact with the producer and build

up the relationship and rapport with them.” The food and drinks fair will include demonstrations and tastings from chefs Neven Maguire, Vincent Meldrum, Neil Reid, Gary O’Hanlon and Kenny Sheridan, as well as food and drink from over 50 producers from across Ireland. Margaret added: “There’s a fabulous range (of producers) and there are some locals with the likes of Gilligan Meats, Gill’s Bakery, Keenan’s Bakery, Athlone Cheesemarket, St. Mel’s Brewery and The Shed Distillery with their fabulous gin. The fair wouldn’t have been possible without the support of locals, the show committee and sponsors such as the Sweeney family and Coillte.” The ladies provided me with a mouth-water-

ing list of producers who will be at the show this year and it soon became clear that visitors will be well looked after in terms of food and drink over the weekend. With producers capable of providing breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and various drinks, the Strokestown Show really is the only show in town next weekend! Margaret, Gemma and Anna are urging people to get behind the food and drinks fair in order to make it a permanent fixture at the show. It became clear listening to the ladies that the show committee, while proud of the traditional classes, were committed to ensuring the show thrives long into the future. It is hoped that the food and drinks fair will entice new visitors to the show and also lead to an increase in visitors from across the country.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

Congratulations to Strokestown Show from the Minister for Agriculture I

Michael Creed T.D., Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, writes an exclusive goodwill message in the Roscommon People…

150

am delighted to have this opportunity to congratulate the Strokestown Agricultural Show on their 150th anniversary. Since its inception all those years ago this show has steadily grown in size and reputation into what is now a renowned show throughout the region. Agricultural shows such as Strokestown Show are a wonderful opportunity for rural communities to hang out their brightest colours and showcase the best of what rural Ireland has to offer agriculturally, commercially and socially. Agricultural shows play an important role in the social calendar of the farming community. In recent years, shows have modified their focus to attract the diverse crosssection of people now living in rural Ireland. They also allow farmers to meet their friends and fellow farmers and thereby perform a very important social function. I believe the true value of shows lies in their potential to inform the public about farming matters, food and countryside topics. This is all the more relevant now when the agri-food sector is seen

as a key driver of economic growth and export earnings. While livestock exhibits provide the mainstay of any agricultural show, shows are now much broader in their appeal. The inclusion of such a wide range of activities including showing classes for horses, ponies, sheep and dogs, horticulture, flowers and farm products, artisan food producers, cookery demonstrations, fashion, home and garden, and cultural events ensures that everyone has something interesting to see. Much of the success of this show can be attributed to the progressive and dedicated people on the organising committee who ensure that the show is interesting and entertaining for all and manages to attract such a large attendance. I wish the Strokestown Show continued success and I again wish to pay tribute to the effort put in by everybody involved. You can be justly proud of your achievements, not just for this year’s event, but down through the last century and a half. I hope you will enjoy the experience and continue to support your local communities.

Thanks and congratulations < PAUL HEALY

l mmon People’s specia Welcome to the Roscos been produced in ha ich supplement wh 150th anniversary of conjunction with the . ow Sh n Strokestow ich was first staged in The famous show, wh en held every single be September 1867, has two-day event (September is year’s year since. Th th 150th successive show 10th and 11 ) will be then. to be hosted in the towon People features 20 This week’s Roscomm we celebrate this great pages on the show, as milestone. plement, we have While compiling this sup estown Show ok Str worked closely with e to thank all the officers lik uld wo I . ee itt Comm w committee for and members of the sho lar chairperson John cu rti their support, in pa nk you to Michael Carlos O’Beirne. A special tha mmon People will some for providing the Rosco s from past shows. fascinating photographny advertisers for their Thanks also to our ma scommon’s most widely Ro continued support of e readers to support our urg We r. pe pa ws ne d rea d advertisers. all our interviewees an A sincere thank you to isted us by providing ass to everyone who has plement. information for this suple takes this opportunity The Roscommon Peop own Show Committee est to congratulate Strok lestone. We also salute mi s ou nd me rs on this tre thousands, of voluntee the hundreds, perhapsto Strokestown Show who have contributedee centuries. over the course of thr ration over the Here’s to a great celeb 10-11 – and long may weekend of Septembertinue to prosper. Strokestown Show con the Roscommon People * Paul Healy is Editor of

September

2016

STROKESTOWN SHOW • The €5,000 All-Ireland Nutrias Animal Feeds Beef Bullock Championship • The €2,000 Greenvale Animal Feeds All-Ireland Beef Heifer Championship • The €10,000 Irish Angus All-Ireland Finals 31 ALL-IRELAND ALL IRELAND BREEDING HEIFER CATTLE CATEGORIES OVER • Irish Simmental All-Ireland Finals THE WEEKEND • Shorthorn All-Ireland Calf Classes • Hanly’s Hardware & Spar Supermarket All-Ireland Calf Class • Showing Classes for cattle, sheep, crafts, cookery, farm & garden produce • Free amusements for children

• Strokestown Park All-Ireland Broodmore Championship €2,500 prize fund • Horse Showing • New Irish Draught Section • Irish Draught All-Ireland • Pony Showing Classes • Driving for style and appearance Road Cart • Spectacular Dog Show - 2 Rings • Family Day • Glamorous Granny • Best Dressed Gent • Little Miss & Little Master • Bonny Baby Show • Free Amusements for Children • Music on Showgrounds

BEST DRESSED LADY

€500 PRIZE CASH - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 11TH

Celebrity judge on the day Marietta Doran

FLAVOURS FROM THE HEART OF IRELAND Food and Drinks Fair Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th This year also sees the introduction of the Flavours from the Heart of Ireland Food & Drinks Fair, showcasing the wealth of culinary delights from the locality and further afield, including demonstrations from some of Ireland’s best known Chefs

www.strokestownshow.com

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Senator

Maura Hopkins Main Street, Ballaghaderreen Telephone: 086 856 4206 email: maura.hopkins@oireachtas.ie Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show

HEALY’S Athleague

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•Tel.: 090 66 63313 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show

CLLR. LIAM CALLAGHAN Newly co-opted Councillor for the Boyle area Contact me with any issues on 086 3325839 or cllrlcallaghan@ roscommoncoco.ie

Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

Silke Cut Hair Fashions

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Proprietor: Breege Silke

For appointment contact: 071-9633241 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

T.V. & APPLIANCE CENTRE UPPER ELPHIN STREET, STROKESTOWN, CO ROSCOMMON ● TV ● Satellite ● Aerials ● Appliances ● Sales & Service “Why not bring your Appliance to us for repair and save on call out charge.”

Tel.: (071) 96 34653 Mobile: 086 7321800 Email: tvappcentre@gmail.com Email Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

ROSCOMMON Industrial & Agricultural

SHOW Thank you to all our supporters, sponsors, exhibitors, committee members and anyone who helped contribute to an excellent show in August 2016 and looking forward to seeing you all on 19th August 2017

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

Strokestown Show – 150 years of wonderful tradition! < DAN DOONER

The Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show is celebrating 150 years this year. The 2016 version of the show which began all the way back in 1867 will take place on Saturday and Sunday, 10th and 11th of September in the grounds of Strokestown Park House. This year’s show promises to be bigger and better than ever with a spectacular Cattle Show, All-Ireland championships for commercial cattle, a new dairy cow class and an extensive Sheep Section on Saturday. On Sunday, there will be a variety of prizes on offer in the Horse and Pony Show, an interesting Poultry Section, a Dog Show in two rings as well as competitions for Best Dressed Lady, Best Dressed Gent, Glamorous Granny, Little Miss, Little Mister and Bonny Baby. There will also be a Food and Drinks Fair, which will run right through the weekend, featuring awardwinning chefs Neven Maguire, Gary O’Hanlon, Vincent Meldrum, Kenny Sheridan and Neil Reid. Over 50 wonderful artisan food and drink producers will provide cookery demonstrations and food tastings on both days of the show. A commemorative book detailing the

Pictured at the 2015 Strokestown Agricultural Show were Aoife Devaney, Katie Birch and Lisa Shannon. Picture: Andrew Fox

150-year history of the Strokestown Show will also be launched over the weekend. The book has been compiled by

show stalwarts, John O’Beirne, Padraig Holmes, Michael Carlos, Mary Caldwell and Mary Owens. This promises to be

a truly wonderful and historic weekend with something of interest for everyone. The showgrounds will be open from 8 am on

Saturday (10th) with exhibits to be in place no later than 10 am as judging commences at 11 am sharp. Admission to the show is €10.

Spectacular Cattle Show! Once again, the Strokestown Agricultural & Industrial Show will play host to a spectacular Cattle Show jam-packed with a wide range of classes. Speaking at the Strokestown Show launch in The Percy French Hotel, show chairperson, John O’Beirne, detailed what promises to be another wonderful cattle section. “Starting with the Hereford section, who have increased their share of the market in recent years, which is great for the people who stayed with the breed. We have

the All-Ireland Angus Finals with a prize fund of €10,000, and we are delighted that they chose to host them with us again this year.” Mr. O’Beirne went on to highlight the other All-Ireland Finals in the section: “We have All-Ireland Finals in Shorthorn, Belgian Blue and Simmental; with Limousin having National Male and Female of the Year, points will be awarded to eligible animals in the Charolais section. We also have a new class, Cow in Calf or Calf at Foot or In-Calf Heifer.”

Pictured at the launch of the All-Ireland Beef Heifer class (sponsored by Greenvale) is Gordon Richardson, Greenvale representative, presenting sponsorship for the class to Tom Tighe, (Tighe Agri, Strokestown). Also in the picture are John O’Beirne, show chairman and Cormac Dolan (Corrib Oil). Pic: Mary Regan

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

6 highlights ... strokestown show

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All-Ireland Beef Bullock Championship €5,000 is the prize on offer in the All-Ireland Nutrias Animal Feed Beef Bullock Championship. This is part of the commercial cattle section and will feature some of the ﬁnest bullocks on the island.

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Dog Sh This year’s rings with 24 classes o place in tw pick of which is the on offer, theIrish Native Breed All-Ireland hip Qualiﬁer for the Champions how. Eyrecourt S

Food an d Drinks Fair The Foo place ovd and Drinks Fa feature er the two day ir will take and tas cookery demons and will and drintings with over strations winning k producers. A 50 food Maguire chefs such as wardVincent , Gary O’Hanlo Neven na Meldrum , to nam nd few, wil e just a l also fe ature.

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Phone: Email: seamuscroghan58@hotmail.com Free Quotations and Advice offered Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

BEAUTY CLINIC ELPHIN STREET, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON TELEPHONE: (071) 96 34 825 BUSINESS HOURS: • CLOSED MONDAY; • TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY, 10.00AM6.00PM; • THURSDAY 10.00 AM - 8.00PM • FRIDAY 10.00 AM - 7.00PM • SATURDAY 9.30AM - 5 PM. OUT OF HOURS APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

Deputy Eugene

Murphy Joint PRO of Strokestown Show welcomes all visitors to Strokestown and hope you all have a great weekend - Eugene & Family Call in advance to make an appointment

STROKESTOWN OFFICE: 071 9633000 ROSCOMMON TOWN OFFICE: 090 6625722

Fun for the whole family!

Pictured at the 2015 Strokestown Agricultural Show. Picture: Andrew Fox

There’s a reason the Strokestown Show has become a tradition passed down from generation to generation. It’s due to the wide variety of events and entertainment on display throughout the weekend. The Strokestown Show, as it has done for many years now, will once again offer something for the whole family with music throughout the show grounds on both days and free amusements for children on both days. With the food and drinks fair, ‘Flavours from the Heart of Ireland’, set to take its first bow at the show and prizes for ‘Little Mister’, ‘Little Miss’, ‘Bonny Baby’ and ‘Glamorous Granny’; young and young at heart will have a weekend to remember. Let’s not forget the wide variety of animals and events on display next weekend: young and old will be treated to the very popular Horse & Pony Show; a hotly contested poultry section; the Dog Show which has 24 classes; adult and junior cookery for the chefs and future chefs, and adult and junior handcrafts which will allow participants to bring out their creativity. With events taking place on Saturday and Sunday, Strokestown Show has a fun-filled family weekend in store.

Woolly good Sheep section! The Strokestown Sheep section has classes for Suffolk, Texel, Charollais, and for the first time this year, Zwartbles. There will be a Champion and Reserve for all breeds. There will also be a full commercial section with Champion and Reserve, and of course the

Supreme Champion of the Show. Goats will not feel left out as there are four classes available also. Have you got green fingers or budding young chefs? Strokestown is the place to go on the Saturday as there will be classes in Farm and

Garden Produce, Flowers, Fruit and Vegetables, Hay and Pasture, Turf, Adult and Junior Cookery, and Adult and Junior Handcrafts. So get pruning, prepping and footing to be in with a chance of taking home top prizes in these wonderful sections!

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150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

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Marietta is looking forward to show style! < DAN DOONER

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TV presenter and stylist, Marietta Doran, will be the celebrity judge at the Strokestown Show on Sunday, September 11th. Marietta has over 15 years’ experience in the fashion industry and she was also a regular contributor to the RTE primetime television fashion programme ‘Off The Rails’. She is well-known to TV viewers as the resident fashion presenter on RTE Racing and also Channel 4 Racing. Speaking to the Roscommon People, Marietta said: “I’m really looking forward to judging the fashion at Strokestown Show. I have never been to Strokestown House before so I’m very excited about that. I love going to Roscommon, it’s one of my favourite counties to visit because the people are so warm and genuine and the ladies are just like myself; they love to dress up!” Marietta is certainly no stranger to Roscommon and ladies’ fashion in the county. She recently judged Ladies’ Day at Roscommon Racecourse. “We had a lovely evening at the Roscommon Races and the style was great. Recently I did a lovely fashion feature on TV3’s Morning Show, using a couple of boutiques from Roscommon

town. Satara Boutique and Sephoria Boutique…and the ladies there were so lovely and the fashion was fabulous. One of my favourite designers is Roscommon hat designer, Rachel Feeley, and I wear a number of her designs. My only problem is I only have one head and can only wear one thing at a time!” At the Strokestown Show, Marietta will judge Best Dressed Lady, Glamorous Granny, Little Miss, Little Mister and Best Dressed Gentleman. Top Part, Roscommon, will sponsor the Best Dressed Lady award and there will be €500 for the winner. The Best Dressed Gent on the day will receive €200 and there will also be prizes for other categories, as well as a ‘Bonny Baby’ competition. Marietta was full of praise for Roscommon which she believes is quite like her own county, Carlow: “I recently listened to ‘The County Line’ documentary on Roscommon, it’s such a beautiful county and whenever I go there, whether it be for the Roscommon Races or whatever event, it’s just always lovely.” The stylist concluded our chat with some encouraging words for Roscommon Rose, Aisling McNeill: “I thought she would win and I was disappointed when she didn’t. She did brilliantly, I thought.” TV presenter and stylist, Marietta Doran.

Marietta’s tips for ladi es

Marietta Doran knows exactly what it takes to wow when it comes to Ladies’ fashion events and she has kin dly provided us with some tim ely tips: Wear a headpiece “It doesn’t have to be a hat but it would be nice, it could be som ething like a little fascinator. I look for hea d to toe glamour and a headpi ece is essential if you want to be in the final or win a competition!” Bring the

colour!

“I love colour. It works throug hout the year and for me, as a judge of fashion, I love to see colour.”

Keep it simple

“Just keep it simple, don’t ove r-accessorise the outfit.” Be

st foot forward

“Watch the shoes! Just be min dful of the shoes, I’ve seen lad ies not make the cut because the shoes have bee n wrong with the outfit. Don ’t wear shoes that are uncomfortable because it shows in the face! Comfortabl e and chic and nice and simple. Bring a second pair too in order to save your feet for those important moments – it’ll ma ke the walk from the car park easier too!”

r gents Marietta’s tips fo s it when she sees one and believe man Marietta knows a well-dressed make a big impression. to ort eff of doesn’t require a lot ts: Here are her top tips for the gen

Keep it simple

r a suit. If you t and tie, you don’t have to wea “You don’t have to wear a shir absolutely do. For you’re dying to wear it, then have a nice suit at home and h chinos or a , then an open-neck shirt wit a guy who doesn’t want the suit it.” h a nice blazer over nice pair of jeans and shoes wit es Match belt and sho t wear brown ; if you’re wearing a brown bel “Belt and shoes should match ck belt wear black shoes!” shoes, if you’re wearing a bla th Keep your hat on! n is the n September 11 at Strokestow “If you’ve never worn a hat, the d!” hea or a flat cap, something on the perfect time to start! A trilby Groom for improvement , lads! Be mindful of the shoes too – give “Pay attention to the grooming them a bit of a polish!”

Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show

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150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

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Church Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Telephone:

071 9634750 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

Cllr. NIGEL

Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

150 years and still standing: through hunger, boom and bust… For the 1960s onwards: See interviews throughout supplement

DINEEN

< DAN DOONER

INDEPENDENT

BALLINTOBER, CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON Phone: 086 2130723 Email: nigel.dineen@hotmail.com Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

The Hub Community Cafe

Following the Great Famine, the process of getting the country back on its feet began. There was widespread acceptance that the over-reliance on the potato crop had led to the famine and new and innovative farming methods were now coming to the fore. It was due to Strokestown embracing this new outlook that the Strokestown Farming Society was formed. Following this, in December 1866, at a dinner to honour Christopher French, father of Percy, it was suggested that an agricultural society be formed. The first show of the new society took place

on September 26th, 1867 in the deer park of the Strokestown Demesne. It was reported that just under 700 animals were entered and the show received favourable reviews from numerous publications. The show began to thrive over the following years and The Irish Times reported on “marked progress in every respect” in 1871 despite the threat of foot and mouth disease to that year’s show. The show went from strength to strength through the turn of the century and in 1909 brought praise from Mr. J O’Callaghan, who was a judge at that year’s show: “the exhibits of farm produce were, taken as a whole, equal

if not superior to those at any shows that I have attended in the West of Ireland.” The show continued through turbulent political periods and times of economic uncertainty. Cattle ‘of the highest quality’ in 1939 and ‘strongly supported’ needlework and knitting classes in 1945, bookmarked World War Two. As the 1950s approached, a brave new Ireland was emerging, The Irish Times reported in 1949: ‘A feature of the Strokestown Agricultural Show held yesterday, was the judging contest for members of young farmers’ clubs. It was won by 18-year-old M. Bergin.’ The Strokestown Show was closing in on its 100th Anniversary as the 1960s approached…

& Hub of Treasure Shop Strokestown

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Tel.: 087 9308 945 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from Michael, Maria and family

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086 1914565 Michael.Fitzmaurice@Oireachtas.ie Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

At back from left: Tom Shanley, John Joe Dolan, - , David McMahon, Peter McHugh, Pat McHugh, Jim Callery, Brian McGuinness, John Fallon. Centre: Joseph Doherty, Mick McGovern, Sean Beirne, Seamus Shiel, - Front – Sr. Stephanie, Claire Gannon, John Joe Cox, Edward Neary, Florence Hanly, Maureen Hanly, Luke Cunniffe.

Pictured in the late 1980s, on the steps of Strokestown House, were sponsors and friends of the show. Back, from left: Jim Mannion, Gerry Dolan , - .Third row – P J Kelly, Micheal Gilleran, Peter Campbell, -, Harry Keating, Donal Rogers, Peter Caslin. Second row: Rutledge Healy, Luke Hughes, Pat McHugh, Canon Desmond McLoughlin, John McManus, Brian Mullooly, Ado Kenny, Eamonn McCormack. Front row: Peter Kelly, Sean Beirne, Mary Flood, Claire Gannon, Maureen Hanly, Tom Tighe, Tom Hanly, Brian McGuinness.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

Antonelli’s

Take-Away & Diner

Pictured at the 100th Strokestown Show in 1967 were (front) Austin Cox, Ado Kenny, Tom Cox, Dillon O’Farrell and Paddy King. The two men standing at back are judges.

Pictured at the Fair Green in 1917: Standing are JJ Carlos, G. O’Reilly, P. Murray, JD O’Farrell, M. McHugh. Seated are two judges.

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Telephone: (071) 9634467

Best wishes on your 15th Strokestown Show from Thomas, Michael and Tommy Joe Burke

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Michael Shaughnessy and Patsy Kenny pictured at Strokestown Show in the late 1940s.

Pictured in 1972 were (l to r) Ado Kenny, Major Hales, Col. Hickson, Col. Corry, Mrs. Hales, Donal Corry and Tom Roynane.

Strokestown Show part th of 19 Century recovery < DAN DOONER

The Strokestown Show has been running for 150 years and that in itself is a remarkable achievement. Yet, that isn’t entirely the whole story… A mere twenty years before the first ever Strokestown Show in 1867, Ireland was gripped by The Great Famine and people were leaving en masse from the country. Approximately 5,000 people left Co. Roscommon in 1847 and among those were the ‘Missing 1,490’ from Strokestown. The group left on four ships bound for Canada and not all of them made it alive. According to

research released by the University of Maynooth in 2014, 1,490 people from Strokestown walked 155kms from the town to Dublin and were then transported to Liverpool where they boarded four ships which took them on a nightmare journey to Quebec, Canada. The group who subsequently became known as the ‘Missing 1,490’, were tenants of the local landlord, Major Denis Mahon of the Anglo-Irish Mahon family, who offered them the choice of ‘assisted emigration’, starvation on their blighted potato farms or a place in the local workhouse. Historian, Dr. Ciarán Reilly of Maynooth University, discovered that the 1,490 men, women and children were “walked” to Dublin by the Mahon estate bailiff John Robinson before he took them to Liverpool where they boarded

the ‘coffin ships’ called ‘The Virginius’, ‘Erin’s Queen’, ‘John Munn’ and ‘Naomi’. Records claim that 373 people perished during the journey while many more suffered illness. Dr. Reilly’s research brought to light the fate of those who took the dreadful trip and not surprisingly, a few stood out… Mary Tarpey was 84 when she left Strokestown and lived to be 106 and at one point was the oldest person living on Long Island. “She attributed her longevity to a daily glass of whiskey,” said Dr. Reilly. Michael Hayden worked in a restaurant in Washington and claimed he overheard John Wilkes Booth hatching his plan to kill Abraham Lincoln! Edwin and Elijah Impey were two cousins who were killed during the American Civil War.

Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

£3 for best shorthorn bull!

“Cows are grazing out on the paddocks better, getting an extra day on a paddock.”

< DAN DOONER

At the 1876 Strokestown Show, the best thoroughbred shorthorn bull would have netted you £3. This year, however, the winning shorthorn will earn quite a bit more! Meanwhile, the Irish Times in August, 1879, reported from the Strokestown show: ‘The best animal in the four year old class for untrained horses has been sold for £337, the owner retaining him, with all risks, till after the Dublin show.’

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ELPHIN STREET, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON Phone: 071 96 34737 Fax: 071 96 34703 Mobile: 087 6025597 Email: info@kleavyauctioneer.com Auctioneers, Valuers & Estate Agents Independent Mortgage Consultants www.kleavyauctioneer.com Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from Tom Garvey

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Can Strokestown bypass < AUDREY HEALY

Strokestown Park House is one of the West of Ireland’s most unique visitor attractions, featuring the Georgian Palladian mansion preserved with its original furnishings and fabrics, which can be seen daily by guided tour. It’s situated in stunning grounds covering six acres – and the day I visit is the hottest day of the year so far. A bus-load of tourists are enjoying the attractions of the stately home and everything seems well – but there’s been a boil water notice in the premises for over two years now, visitors and staff are unable to make a phone call inside the grounds of the house due to lack of phone coverage and there’s been a decline in visits over the past few years. Proprietor Jim Callery: “There are 100 people employed here and it is now run by the Irish Heritage Trust and subsidised by me, but what we’re doing here is costing me and another director a loss of €200,000 personally a year.” Jim has been a well-known and highly-respected figure in the County Roscommon town for a number of

decades now and has seen many changes in the area over those years. He is frank and forthright about the challenges facing the midlands town. “The situation is serious here as far as communication is concerned and we’ve had that for some

years. The reality is that Strokestown had no employment and like a lot of areas in the centre of Ireland we haven’t any hope of enticing people to come here and therefore you’ll find that the population will start to go static or fall and the

Pictured are Jim and Adeline Callery, founders of the Irish National Famine Museum, Strokestown Park House, Roscommon who received The Brian Wilson Award. Picture Jason Clarke Photography.

population will be all in the greater Dublin area. “If you start from the basis of what has happened here, as far as Strokestown Park House is concerned, because they have promoted the ‘Western (Wild Atlantic) Way’ and the Western board so much they have taken business away from us – in other words some of the visitors that were coming here are now basically going there and we have seen a real decline in visitors, although this year we have seen a little growth again,” he adds. “However, if you listen to the tourism figures going upwards you will find that they are not reflected from Westmeath down to the borders of Roscommon,” he continues. “How do you bring employment to the area? First of all you have to have communication that is up to date; secondly you must have some sort of enticement – but we don’t know what deals are made with companies who come to the greater Dublin area and we’re under greater stress now than ever because England will reduce its tax rate towards 15 and a half percent. The North will be a foreign country within two years and its tax rate will be 12 and a half per cent. Now we may say

that won’t affect us, but it will, because countries like Australia, Africa, Asia, India and New Zealand will come to the North to get the cheaper tax rate.” Jim says this year’s election of Fianna Fáil TD Deputy Eugene Murphy “the first representative we have had since Maurice Mahon who was the local representative up to the 1800s” may just be what Strokestown needs. “Eugene Murphy is now the first man in the seat in 215 years and I fully realise the position he’s in. I’ve spoken to many politicians and been assured everything and nothing has happened – but where do you start? I don’t know what the future holds for the Strokestown area – I remember when there used to be a number of factories in the region – we had Rooskey, Burlington (Clondra), Lyons (Dromod) and Carrick-on-Shannon – they’re all gone, but when is another going to open?” “The bypass for Strokestown is on its way,” he continues. “I’ve met the archaeologists, they have been here already. They’re going to bypass Scramogue, Elphin, Frenchpark and Ballinagare, but there Continued on page 33 –>

Optimism – and a jobs appeal < AUDREY HEALY

Strokestown certainly faces many challenges, but maintaining optimism are Maureen Hanly and Shane Lynskey of the Strokestown Community Development Group which was formed back in 1991 with the aim of bringing local community groups together and helping them to deal with the challenges facing the town and environs. Based in Bawn Street, just a short distance from Strokestown Park House, the small group of volunteers is chaired by Deputy Eugene Murphy. Shane says that together the group have “witnessed many changes in Strokestown and faced many recessions down through the years.” Fellow member and local resident, Maureen, says that they have always faced difficulties when it comes to the issue of employment – or rather the lack of it. “We have consistently

tried to promote jobs and work with the IDA to do so, but you get so far and then hit a stop. We did have an IDA centre in the town but that has gone now,” she laments. “But really Strokestown is not too bad, “she continues. “There is a strong community spirit. Two years ago we won Pride of Place and all the community groups in the town gathered in the Percy French Hotel and we were amazed ourselves to find that there are forty local groups! We have the Easter Parade each year, the Strokestown Show which celebrates 150 years this year, the annual Poetry Festival and the Strokestown Traditional Musical Festival.” Shane Lynskey says that with Deputy Murphy as a local political representative there is just one thing he would ask him to do and that’s to “bring in as many jobs as you can to the area” – though he knows that it is a tough call as there has been a

Pictured in 2015 at the launch of the Strokestown Playground project were Michelle Dockery, Cora Glover and Mary Owens. Picture: Andrew Fox

real decline in the retail sector. “I know that multinationals are not going to invest in small towns such as Strokestown, Longford or Carrick-on-Shannon” – but Maureen intervenes to add “you never know”. The midlands town, both volunteers agree, has much to offer visiting tourists with not only the beautiful surroundings of Strokestown Park House, but also a 9-hole

golf course not far away, a GAA pitch, a walking and cycling path and various other recreational amenities which Maureen hopes “will gel together” to create the perfect package to entice members of the public to visit the area, particularly as the region is set to be bypassed in the near future. Maureen: “We have a primary and secondary school, beautiful walks, the Strokestown Traders

Association who do great work in the area, a genealogy centre and of course the famine museum and many resources to make the town as attractive as possible. “As Chairman, Eugene has a good handle on what is needed in this town and there are still a good number of people employed in the various supermarkets and pubs here,” she says of her committee colleague.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

challenges of future?

Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

Elphin Co-Operative Livestock Mart Ltd. Monday, 5th September Special opening Sale of Spring and Harvest Wealings 400 Bulls in Ring One at 5.00 p.m. Dry Cows, Suckler Cows and Weanling Heifers 130 on offer in Ring Two at 6.00 p.m. Usual Sheep Sale at 7.30 p.m. Wednesday, 7th September Annual Continental Heifer Sale 1,000 on offer. Sale at 11.00 a.m. Wednesday, 14th September Annual Continental Bullock Sale Bookings on Wednesday, 7th September at 9.30 a.m.

ELPHIN CO. ROSCOMMON

PHONE: 071 9635061 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from everyone at

Strokestown GAA Club Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from This float promoted the 150th Strokestown Show at the 2016 Easter Parade – complete with a timely reference to this year’s 1916 Rising Centenary celebrations. Picture: Andrew Fox Continued from page 32 –>

was a bottleneck in Ballaghaderreen when they bypassed it and there’s no bottleneck in Strokestown – it will only make things worse,” he says, shaking his head. Jim and his family set up the Callery family fund in 2006 and since doing so, have contributed over €70,000 to their home county of Roscommon. They have been honoured for their generosity in giving to local organisations such as The Strokestown Poetry Festival, the Strokestown Show, the O’Carolan Harp Festival, and of course the Famine Museum in Strokestown Park House. Following the recent controversy over the charity Console however, Jim has vowed to stay local when it comes to charity. “I learned very quickly from watching all these chief executives in charities – what they were receiving and their pensions, they were all retired people and if you’re supposed to be doing charity work and getting one or two hundred thousand a year plus expenses then that’s not charity, so I would now be afraid to give to charity apart from St. Vincent de Paul in Elphin or Strokestown, who I would know personally.” One man who has been fervently involved in Strokestown and its

many organisations down through the years is former Fine Gael councillor Sean Beirne, who is currently looking forward to the Strokestown Show – and this year it’s a big one. “2016 is the 150th year of the Strokestown Show and we will have a special commemorative booklet looking back on the show over the ages and showing the first schedule and prizes,” said Sean proudly.

The annual Strokestown Show, which takes place on the 10th and 11th of September, is the longest-running (continuous) show in the country and is sponsored by local businesses and will take place in the picturesque surroundings of Strokestown Park House. This time around it features a special food fair with some very popular chefs, including Gary O’Hanlon of Viewmount House and Neven Maguire, and has

a prize fund of €50,000. Having resided just outside the town for many years and been involved politically for so long, Sean has his own views on the region and what is needed to revitalise it. “Well, I’ve seen big changes in this town”, he tells me, “a huge decrease in the population for a start. Some people will tell you that the town is progressing; others would tell you that it’s not. There is the

Pictured at the 2014 Strokestown Easter Parade were Sinéad Duignan, Miriam Collum and Lorna Finn. Picture: Andrew Fox

Westward Garage and of course we have Laragan and Srokestown Park House which gets thousands of visitors each year and is a great success story. It gets good state investment. I’ve also been working on a project since year 2000 which will ultimately compliment the Center Parcs development in Ballymahon,” he reveals. However, Sean says that Strokestown has suffered from lack of promotion and could have benefited from a little more exposure – and money. “I do regret that after all the money that has been spent on the Royal Canal it has not been used widely – if you compare that to the ‘Western Way’… we have never been able to sell ourselves in Roscommon as being just a few hours from Dublin the way Mayo do and they manage to do that and get far more visitors,” he commented. “What I would like to see is state investment – I don’t see the point in building more housing and no people in them. If broadband was better it might put us in a more competitive position. Also with the bypass coming down the tracks…it works in some towns and it doesn’t work in others. We’ll just have to wait and see.”

Sheehan’s PHARMACY Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 071 96 33195 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from Pat, Marion and family

McHUGH’S PUB Renowned for its hearty sing songs

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Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

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Strokestown Show stalwarts Seamus Shiel (left) and John Fallon (centre) pictured in the Percy French Hotel with Roscommon People Editor Paul Healy. The duo, two of the hundreds of volunteers who have been involved in the show over the decades, are pictured browsing through the special 150th anniversary publication. Picture: Andrew Fox

Show memories from the 1940s to the present day! < PAUL HEALY

hen you strip everything away – the event’s prestige, the competitors, the judges, the supporters, the spectators – the primary reason Strokestown Show has been sustained for a century and a half is surely because of the hundreds of volunteers who loyally nurtured it, quietly passing it from one generation to the next. I am sitting in the Percy French Hotel with two of those volunteers, and we are tiptoeing back into the past. John Fallon (81) can bring me back 72 years. He was “eight or nine” when the show first registered with him. It was 1944. Bernie Joe Forde was the show secretary and John and some other young boys were helping out on the night before the big event. John recalls helping to

Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

General Secretary, Oliver Flanagan 087 6112938

sort the vegetables and fruit in a shed, using just a flashlamp for guidance on a dark night. He smiles at the memory of it. Little did the small boy know that he would follow in Bernie Joe’s footsteps as show secretary one day. Seamus Shiel can bring me back to 1953, when his family moved to Strokestown from Williamstown. His father, James, had been stationed as a Garda in the Co. Galway town. Now retirement from the Gardai and a spot of farming beckoned. Seamus went to his first Strokestown Show in 1952 or ’53. Later, he became involved, serving as Chief Steward for many years. Also very active in the GAA all his life, he looks fit as a fiddle at 84 years of age. As of “about ten years ago” he’s no longer actively involved with the show, but, like John Fallon, he’s looking forward to the forthcoming historic 150th anniversary weekend in Strokestown Park House grounds. trokestown in the 1950s was, like the rest of rural Ireland, hit by emigration, but the show withstood all economic wobbles and continued as a practical, positive driving force for the local community. John says there was quite a lot of emigration from Strokestown in the 1950s but Seamus makes the point the town actually

held up well during this economically challenging period. John agrees. “Strokestown was a great market town. There was always big markets at Easter, with potatoes, oats, wheat and barley…” The show always went on. Both men hail the role of volunteers throughout the decades. There were always shoulders to be put to the wheel. The annual show day was a huge event for townspeople and folk from miles’ around. John Fallon: “Everyone looked forward to it. There was always a good crowd. The town was packed with people, it was a day out for everyone. The pubs would be busy afterwards and there was always a great atmosphere.” Seamus Shiel: “In those days everyone in the area was involved, everyone had an animal in the show! There was always a good atmosphere. It attracted the fellas doing their three-card tricks. They’d arrive in the town the night before the show.” The profile of the show undoubtedly rose from the early 1970s on. Everyone I have spoken to in connection with Strokestown Show’s 150th commends the foresight of people like Brian Mullooly and Ado Kenny, who were key officers in the 1960s and ‘70s. Later (1970s) John Fallon became joint

secretary along with Eddie Neary. Eddie’s father, Ned, had also been very involved in the show in his day. Showjumping was always popular at Strokestown Show and Seamus Shiel can remember local men, himself included, making jumps for the horses. They bought the timber in a sawmill and painstakingly created their own jumps, working night after night in the Christian Brothers’ school. In the early 1970s the showjumping moved on to a whole new level, largely thanks to the leadership of Brian Mullooly and Ado Kenny and the sponsorship of Jim Callery and Westward. The latter group put up a car each year as first prize in the showjumping. The locals loved it, the showjumpers loved it, but the national showjumping authorities weren’t impressed. Strokestown began to attract some of the top showjumpers in Britain and Ireland. The success of the showjumping ensured that the show could prosper now as a two-day event. The showjumping peaked in the 1970s, but even when the sport’s popularity waned, Strokestown continued as a very prestigious two-day show. Entries to the various classes came from all over Ireland as it meant a lot then and now to win

a rosette at Strokestown Show. Seamus Shiel was Chief Steward for many years but he plays down his role. He’d have perhaps up to twenty stewards working with him on show day. There was never really a lack of volunteers. “It’s the committees down the years that have kept the show alive” Seamus says. Both John and Seamus fondly recall the show dances of long ago. Seamus was involved in booking the bands and says crowd favourites included The Melody Aces and Mick Delahunty and his Big Band. Both men are looking forward to the 150th annual show. Seamus says the standard of animals taking part now is much higher than in the past (“the cattle are better fed now!”). It’s obvious from talking to him that he’s a man who can judge animals and who appreciates that central aspect of the show. Both men are modest about the contribution they have made to the success story, indeed almost embarrassed to be asked about it. They both pay tribute to the hundreds of volunteers who have made it all happen, and to the generations of families who have supported the show. “All we need now is new blood” says John, 72 years after he began to sort out the vegetables the night before the 1944 show.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

It’s Showman Sean! < PAUL HEALY

’m in the Percy French Ho-

tel when I suddenly see the familiar face. For decades, he’s been one of the best-known personalities in the Strokestown region. He walks into the bar, familiar gait, newspaper, as ever, tucked under his arm. He hasn’t seen me, but moments later I’m interrupting him as he’s ordering a meal at the bar counter. He bids me a friendly hello and agrees to do an unscheduled interview after he has dined. Sean Beirne, community activist, passionate Roscommon man, and former county councillor, has a long association with Strokestown Show. He’s currently show secretary, a position he has held for most of the last thirty years or so. He has also served as chairperson. “I attended my first show in 1962 or ’63, and I’ve always been very, very conscious of the show.” When I ask how the event has lasted 150 years, without a single year being missed, he is quick to answer. “I’ll tell you the secret,” he says. “It has survived due to the fact that the committees have drawn from town and country. You

have people involved from Tulsk – such as myself – and from Curraghroe and other places. The people of the town work closely with the people of the country. “Another reason for its enduring success is fair judging. We always endeavour to get fair judges. We’ve had exhibitors from adjoining counties tell us they love coming to Strokestown because of the fair judging.” The pursuit of ‘fair judging’ can sometimes mean inviting judges from abroad, and many hours are spent on the phone making the arrangements. “I remember we had a judge from Scotland one year. A man whose animal should have won at various shows was encouraged to enter in Strokestown. The animal won here, which was certainly the right decision. The man got very emotional.” Sean pays tribute to all the officials, committee members, volunteers and sponsors who have helped sustain the show. He agrees that the show had a huge profile in the 1970s, when, for a number of years, a new car was the prize for the winner of the showjumping event. “It was controversial” he agrees. “The showjumping top brass were shocked to see a car being

put up. Maybe they thought it was crass! There was an ongoing dispute (see story on page 40) between the Showjumping Association of Ireland and Brian Mullooly and Ado Kenny from the Strokestown committee. But what the showjumping fraternity had to realise was that their sport was changing. It was Harvey Smith (the famous rider) who said ‘We’re no longer riding for show, we’re riding for dough!’” Sean became joint secretary in 1984/85, after the heyday of the showjumping. He has been secretary ever since, save for a few years. “Getting the All-Ireland Beef Bullock Championship was a big boost. First it was held in Elphin, then it came to Strokestown. Elphin Mart had been sponsoring it, then we got National Irish Bank on board.” Sean is hoping the forthcoming 150th show will be a big success. He is delighted that a Food & Drinks Fair has now been introduced, and pays tribute to the three local ladies who are spearheading that aspect of the show. When proceedings begin on Saturday, September 10th, at around 11 am, Sean Beirne will again have microphone in hand. He has been master of ceremo-

nies for many years now. The show just wouldn’t be the same without Sean. Sean has recovered from the illness that struck him a few years ago, something which impacted on his political career at the time. He admits that he misses the Council, but he’s back looking hale and hearty now, and, as ever, is energised for the big annual event. The Tulsk man is also relatively optimistic about Strokestown’s future. “It will remain stable, maybe even grow a little. The catalyst for that will be the quality of life here and the infrastructure. We have six or seven bus services to Dublin every day! I am confident about Strokestown’s future. Co-operation between ‘town and country’ will be key, as ever. As for the show, it will go on, but we do need more young members to join.” It’s now 8 pm on a Friday evening and time to draw our chat to a close, time to let Sean go about his business. When the biro is put away, we chat for a few minutes more, and with that he’s off up the street, waving goodbye with his right hand, the newspaper tucked under his left arm.

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Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

Brian Mullooly pictured when he was Cathaoirleach of Seanad Eireann and (right) pictured at the 1972 show with renowned showjumper Eddie Macken.

‘I have vague memory of entering turnips at the show in the 1940s!’ < PAUL HEALY

Brian Mullooly has had a long association with Strokestown Show. The former politician – he was a long-time Fianna Fáil Senator and Councillor – became involved in the show when he began teaching in Carniska in 1957. “Actually I have a vague memory of entering turnips at the show in the 1940s!” he said this week. For many decades, the show was held in two fields at the Fair Green. One field adjoined the then National Bank; the other was ‘Lennon’s Field’. Bernie Joe Forde was secretary in the 1950s’ period and Brian recalls that the show always went well. “Bernie was a councillor, indeed he was chairman of Roscommon County Council. He was succeeded as show secretary by Michael Kiernan, a retired Garda Sergeant, who took over in around 1959 or 1960.

“I think I was vice-chairman around this time. In 1964 I was proposed as secretary, to succeed Michael Kiernan. I accepted on condition that Ado Kenny would join me as joint secretary.” Brian and Ado continued as joint secretaries for a number of years. Brian recalls the buildup to the Centenary Show in 1967 and how it marked a significant milestone in the growing profile of the event. “Tom Callaghan of Messrs. TJ Callaghan and Co., a firm of saddlers and outfitters based in Dame Street in Dublin, provided us with sponsorship. We were coming up to our 100th year and so was his business.” Mr. TJ Callaghan, founder of the firm, had been born in Strokestown, and the family was keen to support the area. Brian Mullooly: “Around this time, Hereford breeders in the Strokestown area were achieving a lot of success and prominence, so it was a great time of opportunity for the show.

We started to expand our livestock classes. We introduced the Hereford Bull Calf National Championship.” Brian remained on as joint secretary for “ten or twelve years.” His friend Ado Kenny then continued as secretary and made a significant contribution. Subsequently, Eddie Neary and John Fallon took over as joint secretaries. Looking back, Brian Mullooly says: “We were fortunate (Ado and Brian) that the period when we were involved coincided with the growth in popularity of showjumping and the huge success of Hereford breeders locally.” Brian, now long retired from teaching and politics, and his wife, Nancy, continue to live in Strokestown and to play an active part in the local community. Brian commends the current committee on producing “an excellent history” of the show and wishes all concerned every success when the 150th annual show takes place later this month. Ruth Ormiston from Cornude Artisan Popcorn.

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Colm Duffy, Aurivo, Nutrias, pictured presenting John O’Beirne, Strokestown Show Chairman, with the sponsorship for the All-Ireland Beef Bullock Championship which takes place at Strokestown Show on Saturday, September 10th. Pic: Mary Regan.

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Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show

2002 ﬂashback:

The show must go on! In 2002, Strokestown was the only show to feature livestock due to the foot and mouth disease. It wasn’t the ﬁrst time the disease threatened the show…Dan Dooner looks back.

Pictured are members of the Irish Angus Cattle Society including John Farrell, (President), Cathy Farrell, Oliver Flanagan and Kevin Diffley at the Strokestown Show launch in The Percy French Hotel. Pic: Mary Regan

150 years of history at Strokestown Library < DAN DOONER

I love reading and therefore I’m immediately drawn towards a town’s library, no matter where I am in the world. Strokestown Library is virtually on the roundabout as you drive up through the town, so I called in to see if I could read up on the history of the Strokestown Show before I started my minitour of the area. I was met by branch librarian, Eithne Murphy, who gave me an insight into the rich history of the show. “Michael Carlos just left five minutes ago! He of course was involved in the publication of the Strokestown Show booklet brought out to commemorate the 150 years,” she told me. Michael Carlos knows a thing or two about the Strokestown Show as his family have been involved with the show for generations; letting him escape my grasp wasn’t exactly a great start, but Eithne proved extremely helpful. The librarian told me that the library would also commemorate the 150th anniversary. “The library will host a photographic exhibition from over the 150 years with memorablia from the

Pictured at the Strokestown Show book launch were (back row): Padraic Holmes, Maureen Flanagan, Michael Carlos. (Front): Alan Hanly, (sponsor for the Strokestown Show 150th Anniversary book) and John O’Beirne, Show chairperson. Pic: Mary Regan.

last one and a half centuries, as well as newspaper cuttings. This will take place from September 6th to 17th.” As for the Strokestown Show itself, Eithne echoed the views of others I had met that day. “It

is very well supported, particularly on Saturday when people participate in the different classes and events. Sunday is the big day out and it certainly brings the local people into town.”

The Strokestown Show was quite literally the only show in town back in 2002; as Ireland was hit by the dreaded foot and mouth disease. The show committee pulled off an amazing coup by staging the only show with livestock in the country that year. The Irish Independent reported: ‘Permission for the two-day event on Saturday and Sunday, September 8 and 9, came through last week from the local District

Veterinary Office which, in conjunction with the Department of Agriculture, drew up a special protocol for the show. This stipulates that cattle and sheep must not be in the showgrounds on the same day – so the cattle competitions will be held on the Saturday, while the sheep classes will be on the following day.’ Of course, for the then 136year-old show, this wasn’t the first time that the foot and mouth disease had threatened. Back in 1871, fellow Dubliner James Ganly spoke of the character of the show for general excellence, and added that the pens would have been much better filled but for the fear of the foot and mouth distemper.

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Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

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Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

Locals ready to usher in historic show! < DAN DOONER

The name Strokestown is derived from the old Irish of Béal Atha na mBuillí which I’m told means “the mouth of the ford of the strokes”, with “strokes” referring to ancient clan battles that once took place there. Luckily there were no clan battles scheduled for high noon last Friday and so I left my sword in the car and took a stroll through the old town in order to get the local verdict on the 150th Strokestown Show. I pulled in alongside the Hay Loft Bar and crossed the road to grab a bowl of soup in The Percy French Hotel. I had become familiar with the hotel since the launch of the Strokestown Show there a week before. I finished my lunch in the nick of time as a bus pulled up in the car park and the lunchtime rush began in earnest. I left the hotel and made my way up the street stopping in various premises’ along the way. My first port of call was Hanly’s Eurospar where manager Frank Hanly told me how important the show was to the local people: “We sponsor a class and it’s great to be involved and to be able to support the show. It’s so important for the local farming community and it’s nice to support a local event. Plenty of our customers would be involved and would attend and we wish the organisers all the best!” Food and beverage producers will be showcased at this year’s show as part of the 150th anniversary and I was greeted by jam maker, John Treacy, at his stall in the middle of Strokestown. John’s stall featured 1st, 2nd and 3rd place awards from shows all over the country. He said: “I’m a regular visitor to shows around the west of Ireland including Elphin, Mountbellew…and I’ll be at the Strokestown Show. I grow all the fruit myself so it’s really a branch to jar process!” Dubliner Collette Tobin was sitting in a stall just across the road from Mr. Treacy and she told

me she was enjoying country life and that a big part of it was the agricultural show. “Since moving down to Roscommon, I usually go to the show on the Saturday, it’s a great day out. I actually go to see cattle and the poultry. I sell duck, goose and hen eggs here as well as other bits and pieces. I haven’t entered any of the classes for poultry or anything yet but I’m thinking about it. The show is a great family day out.” As I made my way back towards

my car I popped into a health food shop called ‘Healthy Beings’, where I met Teresa Callaghan. Teresa told me how vital the show is to the town. “It is hugely important for the area. I’ve gone every year since I was a tot and it would’ve been a highlight even when we were teenagers. 150 years is a huge achievement and it’s all down to the organisers and the dedicated committee,” she said. As I pulled out of Strokestown and made my way back through

the beautiful countryside towards the county town, I was in no doubt as to how important the Strokestown Show is to the people of the area. The fact that it also remains so popular with people from the town and further afield is testament to the hard work of local volunteers and committee members. 150 years is a wonderful achievement and the hope is that future generations take ownership and drive the show through many more.

So, is Church Street wider than O’Connell Street? “To any visitor – who is seeing Strokestown for the first time – there are two impressions uppermost in his or her thoughts. The first is the amazing width of the streets and the second, the picturesque location of the town and the hospitality and friendliness of its people. Many claim that Church Street, Strokestown, with its treelined centre is actually wider than O’Connell Street, Dublin, although Dubliners claim that the latter is the widest street in Europe! Frankly,

I wouldn’t like to bet a dollar on the twin claims. Whoever planned the town in the leisurely past must have had an extraordinary vision into that future, which is now present, for unlike the vast majority of provincial towns in the motorised Ireland of the ‘60s, congestion is not a problem in Strokestown.” * We don’t know who wrote the above, but it is an extract from an article ‘This is Strokestown’

which was published in a book called ‘Roscommon: Past and Present’ which was produced by the Roscommon Men’s Association in Dublin in 1961. The book was compiled and edited by Martin F. Coffey, so he may have been the writer who was fascinated by Strokestown’s famous wide streets! (The dollar reference is presumably to do with the fact that the book was on sale in “the United States and Canada” for one dollar).

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016 Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

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Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

John’s jammin’ – and he hopes you like his jam too! < DAN DOONER

During the course of my tour of Strokestown (see opposite page) I came across a stall which was set up alongside a van. Sitting in the shade was stall owner, John Treacy of Ryehill Preserves, Monivea, Co. Galway, who greeted me warmly as I approached. “Hello!” came the welcome delivered with a slight northern England twang. It transpired that John was originally brought up in Manchester but now lived in Cornamaddy and was a regular visitor to fairs and shows across the west of Ireland where he entered his wide variety of prize-winning jams. He was quick to offer me a taste of some of the most popular jars. “I have a sweet strawberry or you can try the blackcurrant blends which are quite popular. This one’s the original recipe and this one is a newer one,” he said as he offered me two jars to sample. Both were delicious but I was taken with the newer recipe which had a more consistent texture. John explained the process involved

from picking fruit to labelling the jars and presenting them to the public. The numerous awards which adorned his stall were testament to his hard work. “I pick the fruit and make the jam from scratch, I even do the labels myself!” It’s not an easy process, but John is passionate about it and seems to enjoy the hard work. Although sometimes the hard work can put John in a, er, jam. “I always freeze the fruit in order to maintain the freshness, but one time I was working late and being tired I pulled out 3 pounds of blackberry and 3 pounds of blackcurrant instead of six pounds of blackberry like I had intended. I made what I thought was blackberry jam but instead it was a mix of blackberry and blackcurrant. Luckily it proved to be quite popular and went down well!” As I paid John for a jar of his jam, I remarked how some of the world’s greatest discoveries were made accidentally. I wished him luck for the Strokestown Show, thinking to myself that he’ll probably need a bigger stall if his jam success continues.

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Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

The Chrysler car, the controversy, and how Brian and Ado cleared all hurdles! < PAUL HEALY

It’s an episode which is now part of local folklore. In 1972, organisers of Strokestown Show pulled off a major sponsorship coup when they were given a brand new car to offer as first prize in the showjumping competition – only to be told that they could not give it away! What followed was months’ of wrangling between the local organisers and the very miffed Showjumping Association of Ireland. The top brass at national level told the Strokestown committee that they could not give a new car as a prize as to do so would breach their rules. An amazing battle ensued – and it was won by the locals. For years after, the prospect of winning a new car attracted the top showjumpers in Britain and Ireland to Strokestown! This week I went about investigating just how the saga unfolded. The key men were Ado Kenny and Brian Mullooly. I wasn’t able to track Ado down as he was on holidays, but I did get hold of Brian, a well-known retired teacher and former Cathaoirleach of Seanad Eireann. By the beginning of the 1970s, showjumping was a popular part of the show and was held in the local GAA grounds. Now, with television bringing the sport to a much wider audience, and with Irish riders like Tommy Wade and Eddie Macken winning internationally, Ado Kenny and Brian Mullooly sensed there was an opportunity for Strokestown to dramatically develop its showjumping competition. Brian Mullooly takes up the story. “Around that time Westward Garage was becoming very successful. The showjumping had become very popular and we saw an opportunity to establish Strokestown Show as a twoday event, with agricultural classes on a Saturday and enhanced showjumping on the Sunday. “So we approached Jim Callery (of Westward) and ‘hopped the ball’ about a car. Jim was main dealer for Chrysler at the time. He said he’d arrange a meeting in Dublin to see if we could ‘convince those fellas’ to sponsor a car.” Brian Mullooly, Ado Kenny (a fellow teacher) and Jim Callery duly went to Dublin and met with the decision-makers. The Strokestown deputation argued that if a new car was put up as first prize, and qualifying rounds were held all over the country, then great publicity for the sponsor would be assured. Their audacious bid was successful. They left Dublin with a commitment that a brand new car would indeed be made available. It was then that the problems began! When the Strokestown Show committee advertised their intentions, the members of the Showjumping Association of Ireland were shocked. And very unimpressed. Brian Mullooly: “We were quickly informed that it would be a breach of their rules (to put a car up as first prize). We were told that where the prize money is in excess of fifty pounds, the value of the first prize to the owner shall not

Pictured at the ground-breaking 1972 Show were (from left) Micheal Gilleran, Jim Shiel, Brian Mullooly, Eddie Macken, Tom Morgan, Ado Kenny, Jim Callery, Tom Roynane, Tom Rogers, John Peyton.

Eddie Macken receives the keys to his new Chrysler Hunter after becoming the first winner of the controversial ‘sponsored car’. The occasion was the 1972 Strokestown Show. Left to right: Neil Gould, Eddie Macken, Adeline and Jim Callery (sponsors), Nuala Gould and Ado Kenny.

exceed one-third of the total prize money. We explained that this was all news to us. We then argued our case. We offered to give the car away as a trophy, rather than as part of the prize fund! We sought possible solutions, but none were acceptable to the Showjumping Association.” They were told by the Showjumping Association to give the car back, but the locals had other ideas. Brian laughs now as we get deeper into the story. “Well, what did we do? I suppose we had to do a little bit of financial engineering! The competition for the

car was confined to thirty horses. The car, I think, was worth about 1200 pounds, maybe even 1400. So therefore we would have needed at least 3600 pounds of a prize fund. We would have been giving a few hundred ourselves from the committee, but nothing in that region. So our financial engineering was as follows: We said we’ll

‘We approached Jim Callery and ‘hopped the ball’ about a car’ – Brian Mullooly

charge an entry fee of 100 pounds for each of the thirty horses. That totalled 3000 pounds and was added to the few hundred from the committee and to the value of the car. Now the value of the car was less than one-third of the total prize fund.” But how could individual owners possibly afford to enter horses at 100 pounds a go? “Well, the way we structured it was that we had prizes down to the 30th horse. Even the 30th placed horse was guaranteed 100 pounds. So everyone got their money back!” When Ado and Brian informed the au-

thorities of their plan, there was further uproar. “We notified their secretary, Miss O’Carroll, that ‘we are now pleased to inform you we are in a position to comply with the one-third rule.’” The Strokestown committee arranged a press conference in Wynn’s Hotel in Dublin. The top showjumping officials and the media were invited. Brian Mullooly: “We had a document with us (outlining how the car would legitimately be put up as first prize in Strokestown) but they were more interested in having a few drinks and noone studied it that night. The next day, they were back on to us and said the proposed distribution of prizes was not acceptable. “Now we were told we were in breach of the spirit of the rule. We argued that we had only been told previously that we’d have to comply with the letter of the rule.” Sheer persistence paid off for the Strokestown folk – and in 1972, first prize in the showjumping at Strokestown was a Westward sponsored car. First prize would go to the winning rider (as opposed to the owner). The Irish Times reported: “Eddie Macken, riding Arthur Lardner’s great mare, Brown Admiral, won the controversial Chrysler Hunter car competition at Strokestown Show, Co. Roscommon yesterday. It was a great competition and produced some of the best jumping seen in Ireland this season.” For a number of years during the 1970s, when showjumping was at its most popular, the sensational arrangement continued, with Jim Callery and co. providing a car, the organisers attracting many of the top international riders – and the Showjumping Association of Ireland’s top brass licking their wounds!

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show

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Harvey Smith (left) and David Broome (right) on their horses at the 1979 Strokestown Show.

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When push came to shove: Harvey and me… That Harvey Smith fella has so many anecdotes to tell his ‘High Society’ friends, it’s unlikely that he includes the one about the day he met me at Strokestown Show. Therefore I have to take every available opportunity to publicly recall the epic moment… The photograph of Harvey Smith and David Broome, published in the commemorative booklet celebrating 150 years of Strokestown Show, reminded me of ‘When Paul met Harvey.’ Mind you, last week I mentioned the bould Harvey to a younger person in our office, and was (foolishly!) taken aback to discover that Harvey is no longer a household sporting name. So, for some context, let’s speed back faster than Boomerang (Eddie Macken’s famous horse) to the golden era of showjumping, in order to provide some context for this amazing tale. When I was a teenager, showjumping was really big. It was regularly televised, on BBC certainly, and for a period in the 1970s – probably its television peak – it was the snooker of its time. England had household names such as David Broome, Caroline Bradley, Nick Skelton (who, at 58 years of age, has just won gold in the 2016 Olympics!), Michael Whitaker and of course…Harvey. It was a golden era in Ireland too, with Captain Con Power, James McKernan, Paul Darragh and the legendary Eddie Macken. Great feats at Hickstead, the RDS, and in other venues, kept viewers enthralled. The Aga Khan Cup was unmissable each year. Harvey Smith was notoriously blunt, sometimes downright rude, fond of using expletives and not to be messed with. He was also a superb rider and a character. In 1971 he made headlines when he gave a ‘V’ sign to judges – for years after, perhaps to this day, the ‘two fingers’ gesture has sometimes been referred to as ‘the Harvey Smith.’ So, to Strokestown in 1979, when the organisers had – as in previous years – attracted some of these top showjumpers to compete for a first prize of a new car! Which is why I was there, as a 15-year-old fan – thrilled at the prospect of seeing the showjumping superstars in the flesh. I wandered around on the Strokestown Park sod, watching the top riders from a distance, inhaling the show scent, enjoying the atmosphere, savour-

ing how unlike a normal Sunday this was. Then I spotted Harvey – and soon saw how he was treating the brave autograph hunters. Badly. I was either too shy to even contemplate asking for an autograph, or simply saw it as pointless – because, one by one, a queue of hopefuls were being turned away by a sour-faced and gruff English equestrian superstar. Harvey was living up to his reputation. God he looked scary, with that unsmiling, dour expression – an intimidating, superior looking being (complete with whip). No autographs, no love. The queue disintegrated. Time passed. Harvey walked around, all businesslike, in his black boots, striding from A to B, people now staring – but keeping their distance. Soon he would be back in the saddle, ready for another round, ready to do what he did best. My gaze drifted elsewhere. The place was crowded. There was something to see everywhere. Much of human life was there. Farmers. Business people. Administrators. Press. Small children. Giddy teenagers. Caterers. Riders. The showjumping fraternity. Hangers-on. Then, it happened… All of a sudden, I felt the full force of a fierce wallop against my left shoulder and upper back. It knocked me off balance and certainly ended my day-dreaming. I spun around, briefly in shock. A big, strong man who hadn’t been looking where he was going had accidentally bulldozed into me. It was a damn good ‘shoulder.’ ‘Sorry son!’ said Harvey Smith. Yes, it was Harvey Smith! That should have been it. The great, gruff Harvey Smith versus the shy Rooskey lad, it should have been no contest. But, feeling aggrieved, I summoned up something from somewhere. That’s why, in that split second when Harvey and I met, I asked him for his autograph. And, presumably due to guilt over barging into me, he actually gave me what he had denied everyone else. An autograph. Calmly and patiently he wrote it out, signing with a flourish, before shaking my hand and disappearing into the distance. Of course you won’t hear that riveting story from him at ‘horsey’ dinner parties in Yorkshire, but that’s what happened that day in 1979. That’s how I got an autograph – and a shoulder – from the great Harvey Smith, in Strokestown.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

150 YEARS OF STROKESTOWN SHOW (1867-2016) A SHOW FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY

Sat urday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016

Memories of ‘Major and Mrs Hales’ 1847. Major Mahon was killed when returning from a meeting of the Roscommon Relief Committee in 1847 (apparently on suspicion of having chartered unseaworthy ships to transport

< PAUL HEALY

Olive Hales-PakenhamMahon was a greatgranddaughter of Major Denis Mahon, the decidedly unpopular landlord who was shot dead in

Best wishes on your 150th Strokestown Show from

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Congratulations to

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Wishing Strokestown Show and the Irish Angus Cattle Society every success for this year’s show and the future

emigrants from his estate to America). Olive Hales-PakenhamMahon married Captain Charles Stafford-KingHarman. Almost immediately Captain Charles Stafford-King-Harman was killed in the war. His widow returned to Strokestown and in 1921 she married her second husband, Major Wilfred Stuart-Artherstone-Hales. Major and Mrs. Hales lived in Strokestown from 1921 until their deaths many decades later (the Major in the 1970s, Mrs. Hales in 1981). Accordingly, many people now living in Strokestown have personal recall of when Major and Mrs. Hales lived in what was then a relatively rundown ‘big house’ in the Strokestown Demesne. In 1972, members of the Strokestown Show Committee approached the Hales’ to enquire if they could locate the show on lands in Strokestown Demesne. John Fallon and Seamus Shiel (interviewed on page 34) both remember Major Hales and Mrs. Hales. John, as show secretary in the 1970s, had direct dealings with the couple. One memory stands out. “After one show in the 1970s I met Tommy Massey down town. A Meath man, he was the butler in the Demesne. He used to go down town to do the shopping for the Major and his wife. We had a great chat that day. In passing he told me that the Major and his wife were in the house. “I knew I had to pay them for the rent of the grounds so a while after I’d been talking to Tommy I decided to go

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up and hand over the money for the use of the place. “So I went up to the big house and knocked on the door. Massey opened it and looked at me as if he hadn’t seen me in ages. ‘Your name and address and state your business’ he said to me! “I said I wanted to see herself. So he brought me into the library. There was a huge turf fire on. She was lying on a chaise longue and he was sitting in his chair. She said to me ‘you’ll have a drink.’ I said ‘just a mineral’, which Massey served me.” Seamus Shiel says the Major and Mrs. Hales were nice enough to talk to, but locals were still left in no doubt about the class distinctions. “Oh if you were anywhere near the street and he was coming along in his car he’d blow the horn at you to make way!” The marriage of Olive Pakenham Mahon and Major Stuart Hales in December 1921.

HISTORIC LETTER: How show moved to the ‘lawn’ at Strokestown House 10th July, ‘72 Major and Mrs. Hales Pakenham Mahon, Strokestown Park, Strokestown. Dear Major and Mrs. Hales Pakenham Mahon We understand that Mr. Anthony Beirne of Bridge Street has had some discussion with you on the possibility of the lawn of Strokestown House being made available for the Jumping Competitions at this year’s Strokestown show. As you may be aware the sponsorship we have received has made it possible for us to have the richest Jumping Competition ever staged in this country outside the R.D.S. The trophy for the winner is a Chrysler Hunter car. Initially some problems arose in connection with this Competition but happily these were resolved at a meeeting on Friday night last between the Right Honourable Sir Robert Lowry, Charman of the Show Jumping Association of Ireland,

and a delegation from our Society. The Competition will be for thirty Grade A horses. Because of the attractiveness of the trophy and the fact that the leading riders and best horses in the country will be competing the Competition will receive considerable publicity and will almost certainly be covered by television. In the belief that an ideal venue or setting is a sine qua non as far as the success of the venture is concerned we would ask you to consider making the grounds of Strokestown House available this year. We are assured that the pre-eminence of Westport Show is attributable to the fact that it is held in the grounds of Westport House and we are satisfied that you lawn would be an even more beautiful setting. If you accede to our request we are prepared to guaranetee you that the grounds wil be adequately and properly stewarded and that no damage will be caused to trees, fences, etc. No traffic will be allowed down the centre avenue and

the area in front of the house wil be kept completely free of vehicles and spectators save those who are there as your guests. Adequate toilet facilities will be provided, litter will be collected and any damage by horses’ hooves to the ground in the jumping arena will be taken care of. As an earnest of our bona fides in the matter the Show Society is prepared to make payment of £50.00 directly to you or to any recipient whom you may care to nominate. We would also point out that we are keenly aware of and appreciate the co-opration and encouragement received by our Society not alone from you but from your predecessors since the inception of the Show over one hundred years ago. If you feel that any problems may arise which we have not adverted to we shall be happy to discuss them with you, at your convenience, and give you any additional guarantee which you may desire. Yours faithfully, .A. Kenny B. Mullooly

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

Weekend

PEOPLE Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening last were Stephanie and Sophia. Picture: Andrew Fox

FACES AND PLACES

See pages 45 - 47

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening last were Edel Williams, Nicola Fleming, Emer Hegarty, Lorna McGourty and Annmarie Doyle. Picture: Andrew Fox

Ballinasloe ‘will be alive with traditional music and culture!’ Ballinasloe, Co. Galway will be alive with traditional Irish music, culture and heritage from Friday, 9th to Sunday, 11th of September for Féile Cheoil Larry Reynolds. Larry Reynolds was a native of a townland close to Ballinasloe who, like so many of his time, emigrated to Boston in 1953. Over time he became a highly influential fiddle player, not only for his east Galway style but also because of the contribution he made to Irish culture in Boston and all over North America. After Larry passed away in 2012, a committee came together in Ballinasloe to commemorate him and the Festival was established in 2014. Now in its 3rd year, the festival has grown and is fast becoming an important event on the trad calendar. The Alan Kelly Gang with Eddi Reader will open the

festival with a concert in Ballinasloe Town Hall on Friday, 9th of September. A blend of Scottish and traditional Irish vocalists and musicians, they have left audiences spellbound. It promises to be a spectacular night of the best of Celtic music and song. Tickets are €15 and can be bought online at www.larryreynoldsweekend.com, tel: 087-9046140 or from The Pillar House, Society Street. The rest of the weekend boasts a packed itinerary including trad music, song and Sean Nós dance workshops by some of the finest tutors in the country. The workshops will finish with a ‘Tutors’ Recital’ and will be followed by an ‘Irish Music Pub Trail’ through a number of venues in the town. During the afternoon there will be a Lecture on ‘The East Galway Style of Music’, presented by Vera Craughwell in the Convent

The Alan Kelly Gang will perform at the Larry Reynolds Féile in Ballinasloe Town Hall on Friday, September 9th.

Gallery of Ballinasloe Library. This is sure to be a most interesting event and will conclude with some tunes from Vera and other local musicians. Presentations will also be made to the winners of the Schools Art and Poetry Competitions. There will also be on-street craft exhibitions which will include wood turning,

a tinsmith and a straw and basket weaver, to mention a few. There will also be an historic walking tour of Ballinasloe, historically a planned town which was built and developed by the Earls of Clancarthy on the River Suck which traditionally was the crossing point into the West of Ireland. Sunday will see one of

the weekend’s highlights – The 1st Larry Reynolds Open All-Ireland U-18 Fiddle Competition will take place in Scoil an Chroí Naofa on Society Street. With a prize fund of €250 and a Perpetual Cup for the winner, which will be presented by Larry Reynolds Jnr from Boston, the competition is certain to be high.

Other events on that day include Mass with local trad musicians, a singers circle event in The Pillar House, a Céilí in Hayden’s Hotel with the Glenside Céilí Band, a junior seisiún in The Dunlo Tavern, a concert by the newly formed trad group – Gatehouse, who have just released their 5* (Irish Times) CD, Tús Nua, and

there will no doubt, be many open seisúin during the day and indeed, throughout the weekend. Ballinasloe will be alive with trad, don’t miss it. Further details and tickets can be found on www.larryreynoldsweekend.com email: info@larryreynoldsweekend.com. Tel: 0879046140. (See advertisment page 44).

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

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

Hamrock’s Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday 3rd September: Music by

Laurence Campion

DOWN THE HATCH CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON. (090) 6627100

20th Anniversary Celebrations

Derek Campbell Saturday 3rd: D.J. Seamus Duke

Friday 2nd: Music by

Join Larry & Seamus over the weekend for a drink and refreshments

cinema & leisure complex

JJ HARLOWS - Market Square, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626225

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

Friday 2nd September:

PREMIERES Wed 7th & Thurs 8th 21:25 Week Commencing Fri 2nd Sept—Thurs 8th Sept

Movie Times

BAD MOMS (16)

12:45; 14:50; 19:10; 21:30

BEN-HUR 2D (12A) Previews Wed 7th & Thurs 8th 21:25 FINDING DORY 2D (G)

12:10 (KMC); 15:10

LIGHTS OUT (15A)

13:20; 19:45

MECHANIC RESURRECTION (16)

17:10; 19:30; 21:35

NERVE (15A)

14:20; 16:35

NINE LIVES (PG)

17:05

PETE’S DRAGON 2D (PG)

12:00 (KMC); 15:15

POPSTAR: NEVER STOP NEVER STOPPING (16)

17:30; 19:30; 21:45

THE BFG 2D (PG)

12:30 (KMC)

THE PURGE 3: ELECTION YEAR (16)

17:25; 21:40

Open Mic Night – All welcome, sign up at 9pm Saturday 3rd September:

The Jumptones 50’s Rockabilly Band

WAR DOGS (15A) NO 21:25 Show Wed 7th & Thurs 14:30; 18:50; 21:25 8th

Sunday 4th September:

Patricia Lane with Anthony McDermott - 6 pm in Middle Bar

Pictured at the Roscommon Races on Monday evening last were Ann and Martin Dowd. Picture: Andrew Fox

2017 Strokestown International Poetry Festival launched

Launch of Gatehouse CD – “An Tús Nua” 3pm in The Pillar House

The 2017 Strokestown International Poetry Festival competitions are open for entries on the 1st of September 2016. The closing date for the competitions has been brought forward to the 2nd of December 2016. This is to facilitate the publication of a festival anthology in which poems from shortlisted entrants for the two main competitions, English and Irish, will feature alongside the work of the well-known judges and other poets who will read at the 2017 festival. Maura Dooley and Paddy Bushe will judge the Strokestown International Poetry Prize for a poem in English, which carries a prize of €2000. Duais de hÍde, which carries a prize of €500 for a poem in Irish, will be judged by Cathal Ó Searcaigh. Shortlisted poets for each of these competitions will also be asked to read a selection of their poems as part of the festival, and will receive a reading fee of €200. The Percy French Prize for humorous poetry will be judged by Margaret Hickey, and the Roscommon Poets’ Prize by Jessamine O’Connor. For details, rules and entry forms see www.strokestownpoetry.org or telephone 00 353 71 9633759 (10 am-1 pm).

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

BEER OF THE WEEK! JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

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

30th birthday celebrations of Samantha Gibbs

Pictured enjoying the 30th birthday celebrations of Samantha Gibbs in Kenny’s, Ballintubber were Samantha Gibbs, Sheila Mills, Alec Andrews and Tom O’Dwyer.

Pictured enjoying the 30th birthday celebrations of Samantha Gibbs in Kenny’s, Ballintubber were Sharon Ryan, Samantha Gibbs and Maria Mitchell.

s Faces & Place Photographs:

Pictured enjoying the 30th birthday celebrations of Samantha Gibbs in Kenny’s, Ballintubber were Jane Kennedy, Samantha Gibbs and Alice Cahill.

Kenny’s, Ballintubber

Andrew Fox

Pictured enjoying the 30th birthday celebrations of Samantha Gibbs in Kenny’s, Ballintubber were Charlotte Gardner, Mary Lennon, Samantha Gibbs, Ann Lynch and Ann Connolly.

Pictured enjoying the 30th birthday celebrations of Samantha Gibbs in Kenny’s, Ballintubber were Siobhán Mannion, Samantha Gibbs, Mary Flanagan and Jennifer Flanagan.

Pictured enjoying the 30th birthday celebrations of Samantha Gibbs in Kenny’s, Ballintubber were Derek Mannion, Samantha Gibbs, Pat Egan and Pat Donoghue.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

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

John and Eithne Murray pictured making presentations to Declan and Teresa Coyne to honour 25 years of the South Roscommon Singers Circle, Declan was the founder of the South Roscommon Singers Circle. Picture: Andrew Fox Pictured in Murray’s, Knockcroghery on Saturday night last were Joe Lacumbre, Dan Moran and Tom Corcoran. Picture: Andrew Fox

Faces & Places

Murray’s Bar Photographs:

Andrew Fox

Pictured in Murray’s, Knockcroghery on Saturday night last were Philip Dolan, Sonny Davis and Marina Dolan. Picture: Andrew Fox Pictured in Murray’s, Knockcroghery on Saturday night last were Jack Sommers, Carmel Plunkett, Frances and Jack McKervey. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Murray’s, Knockcroghery on Saturday night last were Michael Beirne, Kathleen Devaney, Pat Devaney and Eugene Morris. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Murray’s, Knockcroghery on Saturday night last were Declan and Teresa Coyne. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

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

Pictured in Eddie’s Bar, Ballymoe on Saturday night last were Paul Healy, Joan and Bernie Higgins and Padraic Deane. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Eddie’s Bar, Ballymoe on Saturday night last were Ann and Pat Mulvihill. Picture: Andrew Fox

s Faces & Place Eddie’s Bar, Ballymoe. Photographs: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Eddie’s Bar, Ballymoe on Saturday night last were Eileen Joyce and Eana Ceannt. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Eddie’s Bar, Ballymoe on Saturday night last were Bernard Flanagan, Frances Hardiman and Daniel McDermott. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Eddie’s Bar, Ballymoe on Saturday night last were Suzanne Drake and Sandra Gunning. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Eddie’s Bar, Ballymoe on Saturday night last were Helen Gunning and Cathy Gunning. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Eddie’s Bar, Ballymoe on Saturday night last were Phil and Aidan Kelly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

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Investment fund of €50,000 can lead to jobs – Louise With an investment fund of €50,000, Local Enterprise Office Roscommon will award six investment prizes to three category winners and three runners-up, before the Regional Finals early next year. The local winners in the Best Start-Up and Best Established Business categories will receive €15,000 each and the two runners-up will each receive €5,000. The Best Business Idea winner locally will receive an investment prize of €7,000 and the runner-up will receive €3,000. Louise Ward, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Roscommon explains: “The €50,000 investment fund for County Roscommon winners is a very important part of the competition and will help more young entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and create more jobs here locally. Other business supports, such as management training, networking and one-to-one mentoring are also at the heart of the IBYE competition. “450 young entrepreneurs benefitted from these business supports last year, so the rewards are there for participants, as well as for the winners.”

At last year’s Regional Final of the IBYE competition 2015, were Minister of State, Michael Ring TD; Mark Bannon, VT Networks; Enda Mahon, Mahon Pipe Solutions; Oz Ibrahmi, Hex CNC and Louise Ward, Head of Local Enterprise Office Roscommon

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The latest search to find Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) is getting underway in County Roscommon this week, through Local Enterprise Office Roscommon. With a €2million investment fund available, including a €50,000 investment fund for County Roscommon winners, the enterprise initiative from the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and Enterprise Ireland attracted 1,400 applications across the country last year and supported over 450 young entrepreneurs through training, mentoring and direct financial assistance. Announcing the start of this year’s programme, the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Ms. Mary Mitchell O’Connor T.D. said: “The quest to find Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur is one of the most exciting initiatives to create new businesses and new jobs in recent years. “IBYE generates that ‘can-do’ spirit in which young people excel. I want to foster that spirit and to demonstrate that there is help out there for any young person that wants

to take a risk and start their own business. “The first-stop-shop to get advice and support on starting a business is your Local Enterprise Office. I want to congratulate the Local Enterprise Offices on rolling out IBYE and I look forward to meeting Ireland’s young entrepreneurs up and down the country. “I would encourage all young entrepreneurs, between the ages of 18 and 35 to talk to their Local Enterprise Office about the

IBYE programme and discuss their business ideas.” To enter, young entrepreneurs between the ages of 18 and 35 in County Roscommon are being asked

to visit the competition website at www.ibye.ie, to submit their entry online. The closing date to enter is Friday, October 14th and there is no entry fee.

Last year’s winners The competition is now in its third year and last year’s local winners were: Enda Mahon, Mahon Solutions, Ballymoe in the Best Business Idea category; Mark Bannon & Will Ferguson, VT NETWORKS, Bealnamulla, Athlone in the Best Start-Up Business category and Oz Ibrahmi, HEX CNC, Knockvicar, Boyle in the Best Established Business category. The county’s Best Young Entrepreneur for 2015 was Oz Ibrahmi of HEX CNC.

Roscommon’s 2015 winner at the Regional Final of the IBYE competition, Oz Ibrahmi, of Hex CNC in Knockvicar, with Louise Ward, Head of Local Enterprise Office Roscommon and Minister of State, Michael Ring TD.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 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

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

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

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

BOUNCING CASTLES ROSCOMMON CASTLES

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

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

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

CAREERS CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

Grace O’Reilly

Phone No: (087) 4136355

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

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

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

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!

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

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

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY

CONTACT: Abbeyside House, Abbey Street, Roscommon. Tel . 090-6630760. Email: abbeysidehouse@ eircom.net Facebook: www.facebook. com/careersgraceoreilly

(Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Treating all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

Opening Hours: 9 am - 5.30 pm, Mon-Fri.

By Appointment Only – Tel 087 2982214 Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

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

CHIROPODIST

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

Tel: 087 2798704 CHIMNEY CLEANING CHIMNEY CLEANING POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge ALSO AVAILABLE FOR POWER WASHING

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

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

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

(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

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

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

Tuition in Car Car available for test

EDT LESSONS AVAILABLE Contact: Noel Burke Ballintubber

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

SYL’s

School of Motoring

Learn to drive from approved Driving Instructor SPECIAL RATES FOR BEGINNERS AND STUDENTS Gift vouchers now available

Call (085) 1348779

O TOW WI RN T TH A E

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

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

(094) 98 80281/ (087) 2031909

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring

SYL’s School of Motoring

RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

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

CAR - 12 EDT LESSONS CAR & TRAILER (B&E) TRUCKS - RIGID, ARTIC & CPC

DENTAL

Contact: 085 1348779 Learn to drive with ....

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

Excellent pass rates

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TEL: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Webb’s Butcher’s 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715. < PRESSURE TREATED STAKES FOR SALE: • 6ft stakes 4inch only €2.40 per stake or bale of 70 for €160 delivered • 5ft stakes 3inch only €2 per stake or bale of 100 for €180 delivered • Pressure treated Larch Strainers 8ft 7-10inch only €11 delivered or bale of 25 only €250 delivered • 200 meter rolls barbed wire €25 per roll • 100 meter 3ft sheep wire €90 per roll. Also staples and nails available. Contact Tom on 086 2628439. < FOR SALE: Barley straw, oaten straw and hay. Lecarrow area. Tel: 086 1945562. < FOR SALE: Round bales of hay, good quality. Strokestown area. Tel: 086 8227226. < MAN AVAILABLE for farm work/lorry driving with own jeep and trailer. All areas considered. Tel: 086 8782672. < FOR SALE: Dun Filly with buck and chip. Tel: 087 1684580. < TO LET: Good clean meadows on dry ground. Pay by the bale. Options on aftergrass grazing if required. Loughglynn area, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 087 2972947 or 094 98 80286. < FOR SALE: PBNR Suffolk Hogget rams. Tel: 086 8804412. < HAY FOR SALE: Good quality, well saved, round and square bales. South Roscommon area. Tel: 087 6810731.

FENCING EDDIE NAUGHTON FENCING SUPPLIES All types of fencing materials - including: • P.D.M. cresoted posts • Grant approved fencing • Post & Rail fencing • Timber gates • Concrete posts • Mesh panel fencing • Palaside

Tel: (086) 1500207

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

Classifieds 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. < FOR SALE: 11ft x 5ft Grit, 14 x 3 inch bars, Parkside Filter used with hoover for ash, soot, cleaning. 5ft x 2ft Sheep feeder. Drum area, Athlone. Tel: 090 6437476 or 085 8336250.

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.

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

GARDENING

HOLISTIC

WALTER BEGLEY Gardening, Maintenance & Painting Roscommon Town • Indoor & Outdoor Painting • Winter Garden Clean-Up • Power Washing Driveways - Paths • Prepare Lawns for Spring • Hedge Trimming • Planting • Grass Cutting • General Maintenance

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

GARDENING SERVICES Including: • Hedge Cutting • Hedge Planting • Grass Cutting • Spraying • Strimming • Weeding • Garden Tidy-ups • Planting • Gutter Cleaning, etc. Chainsaw work also available

Phone John on 087 2860428

HEALTH & WELL-BEING JOAN MOORE Therapy Rooms • Sports Massage • Deep Tissue Massage • Reflexology • Indian head Massage • Reiki • Aromatherapy Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon

(087) 9201818 Gift vouchers now available

Find us on facebook

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

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon

● Neuromuscular therapy

Molloy’s Pharmacy, The Harrison Centre, Roscommon

Tel: 087 2721757

Gannon Environmental Services Ltd., Creggs

www.aobtherapies.com

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

www.facebook.com/ AOBTherapies Vouchers available on-line

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

Phone: (086) 3614230

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.

MUSIC TUITION

Appointments with Anne:

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

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

● Amatsu Therapy

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

• Woodchipping • Log Splitting • Tree Surgery • Hedge Cutting

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

Members of IBKCA

www.parklawntreeservices.com

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169

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

www.lisbrockkennels.ie

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

SEAMUS HUNT

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

TRADITIONAL MUSIC CLASSES - Classes in Kilbride Community Centre re-commencing on Friday 9th September from 5.30pm. Tuition in concertina, flute and tin whistle. All levels catered for. Tel: Breda (concertina) 086 2287515 or John (flute & tin whistle) 087 2239095.

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

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying on behalf of Declan Brennan for planning permission to construct a dwelling house, garage, septic tank unit and treatment system with percolation area at Carrownamaddy and Rinnagan Townland, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Declan Brennan, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Michael and Bernadette Donohoe, wish to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the construction of a new private dwelling with detached garage, a new site entrance, a new connection to the existing public foul sewer, and all associated site ancillary works at Ballyforan Townland, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Michael and Bernadette Donohoe.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Pat Compton and Sons Ltd intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to demolish existing dwelling and extensions, erect 2 dormer type dwellings, domestic garages, connect to existing public services, associated site development works and services at The Walk, Cloonybeirne, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architectural & Design Services Ltd. Architects, Fallon Avenue Roscommon Phone 090 66 26974 Mob: 086 8115449

That the planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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.

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

086 3482387

www.morrislohan.ie

moleskin architecture@gmail.com

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying for planning permission on behalf of Edwin and Ann Gibson to extend a dwellinghouse, including alterations to layout and elevations and to construct a garage/storage shed at Cloontowart Townland, Lisacul. Signed: Mary O’Hara & Associates, Civil Engineering Consultants, Market Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 094 98 61515

facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, John Mullooly, intend to apply for permission for development at this site: Cloonfree, Strokestown, Co Roscommon. The development will consist of the construction of new forest entrance, turning bay and all associated site works at Cloonfree, Strokestown, Co Roscommon. Signed: John Mullooly. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

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.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made 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.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Vodafone Ireland Ltd intend to apply for Retention Permission for existing 24m high multi-user telecommunications structure with headframe (giving overall height of 26.5m) carrying associated antennae and link dishes, associated equipment, associated equipment Cabin, within security compound, existing access route at Lissawaddy Townland, Tulsk, Co Roscommon. The development will continue to form part of Vodafone Ireland Ltd’s GSM and 3G Broadband Networks. Signed: Vodafone Ireland 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 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submissions and observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Padraig Crean, hereby give notice that I am applying to Roscommon County Council for full planning permission for change of use of existing building from Office Accomodation to Day Activity Centre and all associated site works at Ballypheasan, Lanesboro Street, Roscommon. Signed: Lo-Homes Limited, Tonamaddy, Creggs, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 090 6621941 Mobile: 086 8551835 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that a submission of observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

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.

< NEW HOUSE FOR LEASE - long term letting. Four bedroom detached bungalow, (1 ensuite) situated in Lisacul, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. Unfurnished, fitted kitchen, fitted wardrobes and units throughout. Close to schools, 5 miles from Knock Airport, 4 miles from Ballaghaderreen. Tel: 086-1607921 between 8pm to 9pm only. < TO LET: One bed apartment The Walk, Roscommon. Fully furnished. Tel: 087 6949253. < TO LET: 4 bed detached house in Abbeyville, Roscommon town. Fully furnished, newly decorated. OFCH. Immediate availability. Tel: 086 3857078.

PROPERTIES WANTED LANDOWNERS: Want to sell your derelict properties on your land. We will pay good price. Email replies to: Mr. Pugh on rst_9@yahoo.com

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

Classifieds PSYCHIC DOLORES PSYCHIC MEDIUM CLAIRVOYANT REIKI HEALER

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

Athleague

REFLEXOLOGY

MARINA FUREY (MNRRI) African & Classical Reflexology/ Reflexology may bring relief from conditions such as: • Allergies • Eczema • Migraine • Back Problems • 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)

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

SAFEPASS SAFE PASS Roscommon Friday 9th September Longford Saturday 10th September

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

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

SITUATIONS VACANT < PART-TIME CHILDMINDER REQUIRED for 2 school-going children, 12.30 - 5.30pm Monday to Friday, in their own home. Just outside Roscommon town. Car essential. Tel: 087 2298324.

MACRA NA FEIRME is recruiting TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT OFFICERS To be based in the Northeast and West.

See www.macra.ie for details. Closing date 7th September 2016

CHATTERLAND CRECHE ELPHIN, ROSCOMMON Has vacancies for the following positions: FULL-TIME CHILDCARE WORKER (FETAC Level 6 desirable) FLEXIBLE RELIEF STAFF (FETAC Level 5 desirable) EMAIL CV AND COVER LETTER TO AINE: chatterlandcreche@ hotmail.com

PART TIME JUNIOR STYLIST REQUIRED For busy hair salon. Roscommon area. Must be punctual and outgoing. Please reply to Box No. 926 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < CARING AND RELIABLE CHILDMINDER REQUIRED: Three to 4 days per week, to mind 2 children ideally in children’s own home. Own car essential for pre-school drop-offs and collections. Scrine area, starting from November 2016. Please reply to Box No. 927 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. WANTED: Film actor/ actress, video editors, graphic designers, story writers, extras, distributors, camerman/woman. Apply with CV to IndoIrish Film Productions at rst_9@yahoo.com < THINKING OF GOING BACK TO WORK? Unsure of your confidence and ability? Why not try an internship to regain that? Contact us for details of positions we have available at: customerservice@halcyongroup. ie or 090 6634880

SPECIAL NOTICES < A SEVENTH SON HEALER will attend in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon this Friday 2nd September 12 noon to 4 p.m. Cures for depression, sinus, migrane, blood pressure, ear noise, vertigo, burns, chest asthma, back pain, arthritis, rheumatism, blushing, lack of confidence also nerves, stress, anxiety, headaches, eczema, psoriasis, fatigue. All skin rashes etc. 100% success. No appointment needed, call on day in private. Any enquiries to 049 4335497 or 086 1921955 anythime.

HUGH KILDUFF Hackney Service (086) 2479829

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

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.

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

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. < DATING-MATCHMAKING-MARRIAGE! Join Amour Arrow NOW and start your love life tomorrow! Catch the best of this summer NOW! Call us on: 087 1784592/087 3555306

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

SITUATIONS WANTED < CHILDMINDER AVAILABLE for full time work. 10 years experience. References available. Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Contact: 089 4138431. Texts only.

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Call car direct

(086) 2714879

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

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

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

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849.

TUITION A.U.R.A. Courses ITEC Diploma Courses (Part Time): Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Diet & Nutrition. Certificate in Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology (Distance Learning). QQI Evening Courses: Level 5: Reflexology, Nutrition, Level 6: Sports Nutrition, Nutrition and Health. Britta Stewart Dolan, 044-9345607 www.auracourses.ie < MATHS GRINDS: One to one tuition. All levels, Roscommon town, also in small groups of 2/3. Tel: 086 6058108. < MATHS TUITION: Junior Certificate, Roscommon town. Education and Guidance Professional. Mobile: 083 4843192, email: mariag21@eircom.net. < FINAL YEAR BACHELOR OF EDUCATION student available at weekends to help your child with all subjects at primary level and/ or homework help. Also available to tutor Maths, Business, English and Irish up to Junior Certificate. Fully Garda vetted. Tel: 086 3212809. < MATHS GRINDS AVAILABLE: Junior and Leaving Certificate. Higher and Ordinary level. Excellent results record. Experienced practising teacher and exams corrector. Ballintubber/Ballymoe area. Tel: 090 66 62234 or 086 4067270. < CASTLEREA AREA: Leaving/Junior Cert English, Maths, Irish and French. Private tuition in your own home. Phone: 086 3282437. < IRISH GRINDS: Leaving and Junior Certificate, all levels from experienced teacher. Tel: 087 0991074. < FIRST CHOICE TUTORIAL CENTRE: Leaving and Junior Certificate grinds available in Roscommon town in Science, Maths, Biology, Chemistry and Ag Science. All teachers fully qualified and registered with the Teaching Council of Ireland. Tel: 087 9497825 or email firstchoicetutorial@gmail. com < ROSCOMMON LEARNING SUPPORT: Primary School Students - B.Ed., Post-Grad Literacy, Numeracy, Speech Problems. Extensive experience, resources and strategies. Tel: 089 4768226.

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. TURF FOR SALE in tonne bags (1 mtr cubed). Delivered to Roscommon Town and surrounding areas. €50.00 delivered. Tel: 086 8534011. < FOR SALE: Good quality hopper turf. Delivered, North Roscommon area. Tel: 087 6810849. < SALE NOW ON: September Special Offers on turf now available. Various size loads available. Great Discounts - Don’t miss out. Tel: 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 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAINS JETTED & CLEANED Waste Collection Permit No: NWCPO-12-11038-01

USEFUL SERVICES

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

Contact Vincent on 083 4130827 < MAN AVAILABLE FOR ROOFING AND ALL TYPES OF WORK: 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 < SAFE ELECTRIC REGISTERED ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE for work. Small jobs a speciality. Call 087 4634888 anytime. < 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.

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

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

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

Contact: 087 6718564

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON! TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 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

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

TARMACADAM Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness New Buildings & Retroﬁt Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

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

fergalkelly@live.com

Fergal 086 1016899

091 768 768

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

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

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

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E: gerrymonaghan1@eircom.net

CARPENTRY

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

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STEPHEN HOARE 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 WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

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www.roscommonwindows.ie

M: 086 3912396 PH: 090 66 62892

HOME MAINTENANCE

Contact: Gerry Monaghan

Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway info@ecowise.ie

SHOWROOM:

Contact

Daily collection

Email:

CLEANING

WINDOWS/DOORS

Gary Jameson

TV House & Garden Maintenance

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

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

Chimney Cleaning Service NOW AVAILABLE

• Doors, Timber Floors • Stairs • Attic Conversions and all internal woodwork

(086) 0708833 GLASS WORKS

Boyle Glass Ballinameen, Boyle,

Tel: 071 96 68368 - Stained Decorative

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

Aerial and Satellites Installation and Repairs MAL HEVEHAN Telephone: 086 8100292 CRASH REPAIRS

BUILDING CONTRACTOR

2nd Fix Carpentry Munsboro, Roscommon • Fitted Kitchens & bedroom units

SAORVIEW

Frank Grehan & Sons Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon Phone 090 66 22230 086 2599836/085 8550051 Email: fgrehan@eircom.net Building & Civil Engineering Contractors

~ For all your building requirements ~ Fully registered for the new building regulations ~ Quotations on request ~ Building for the future

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

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

TILING Michael Mulryan Tiling MARBLE - PORCELAIN - MOSAIC - CERAMIC

Tel: (094) 96 51889 (086) 2536105 Knockalaughta, Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Remodelling Bathrooms & En-suites, Plumbing, Tiling, Electrical, Drylining, Waterproof Tanking System in Showers & Wet Areas, Carpentry work. Also catered for Special Needs and all Tiling Needs.

ALL GRANT WORKS UNDERTAKEN QUOTATION FREE OF CHARGE

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2.30PM ON TUESDAY

FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 28/08/2016 FIRST PRIZE €50: Eileen Kelly, c/o Breda Healy SECOND PRIZE €25: Brenda Naughton, c/o K. Collins THIRD PRIZE €20: Mary Kelly, c/o Mary Hicks 8 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Margaret McNamara, c/o M. Beirne; Sophie Leonard, c/o K. Collins; Pat Sherlock, c/o Mary Hicks; Jackie Langan, c/o K. Collins; Jim Banahan, c/o K. Collins; Paul Byron, c/o R. Walsh; Frank & Joe, c/o K. H.; Ann Harlow, c/o K. H. 5 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: K. Collins; K. Finan; Bridie Glennon; J.F.K.; Aobiheann Ward, Goff Street. TOTAL RECEIPTS: €262 TOTAL PRIZES: €200

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

Appointments/Classifieds ROSCOMMON LEISURE COMPANY

CURRICULUM VITAES ARE INVITED FOR THE PERMANENT POSITION OF:

SENIOR CHILDCARE PRACTITIONER

Company Number 407950

CUAN BHRIDE CHILDCARE CENTRE Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon The Senior Childcare Practitioner will be responsible for the co-ordination and running of the toddler room. The candidates should have: ESSENTIAL CRITERIA • FETAC VI in Early Childhood Care and Education • Minimum 2 years’ experience in a Childcare Setting • Knowledge of Childcare Regulations 2006 • Experience leading a team • Have a pleasant, approachable manner, patience and an ability to handle stressful situations calmly • Have a sense of humour, easy-going and common sense • Experience working with Aistear • Experience working positively as part of a team and on own initiative • Willing to work flexible hours and attend trainings and meetings • Excellent communication and relating skills with children, parents and staff, verbally and written • Strong organisational skills with working knowledge of Word, Excel and the internet DESIRABLE CRITERIA • Experience working with toddlers, BA in Early Childhood Care and Education, current First Aid Certificate, Children First Training, Manual Handling Training, High Scope Training The job is a Full Time post operating Monday – Friday 37.5 hours Shortlisting of candidates will apply. Subject to Garda Clearance. Interested applicants should send in a letter of expression of interest and CV to the Manager, no later than Friday, 9th September 2016. Please call for further instructions on the new Garda Vettings process. Job description available upon request. A panel may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled, including relief work.

Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon Tel: 090 662 9844 Email: cuanbhride@outlook.com CANVASSING WILL DISQUALIFY Cuan Bhríde Childcare Centre is an Equal Opportunities Employer part-funded by the Irish Government Subvention Scheme and part-financed by the European Union Structural Funds under the National Development Plan 2007-2013.

PART-TIME SHOP SALES ASSISTANT/DELI ASSISTANT REQUIRED For busy shop in the Lanesboro area. Please reply with CV/Cover Letter to Box No: 928, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

CONNAUGHT TREE CARE LTD ARE NOW HIRING

TREE SURGEONS Must be chainsaw certified

Contact Eddie on Connaught.tree.care@gmail.com OR 086 8076766

Roscommon Leisure Centre Limited invite Applications from suitably qualified candidates for the following positions:

DUTY MANAGER (3 Year Temporary Fixed Term Contract)

LIFEGUARD/SWIM TEACHERS Roscommon Leisure Centre Limited is looking to recruit a Duty Manager and Lifeguard/Swim Teachers for our leisure centre in Roscommon town. We require qualified individuals with a minimum of Lifeguard and full Level 2 Swim teacher’s qualification. Additional qualifying standards apply to the position of Duty Manager.

KITCHEN FITTERS & CABINET MAKERS Due to expansion we have immediate vacancies for kitchen fitters and cabinet makers Applicants MUST have a trade qualification and a minimum of 5 years experience

To apply: email your CV to info@lohanfittedfurniture.ie

APPLICATION FORMS AND FULL JOB PARTICULARS FOR BOTH POSITIONS ARE AVAILABLE FROM:

Reception, Roscommon Leisure Centre, Ardnanagh, Roscommon at roscommonleisure@gmail.com or phone 090 6628219 Candidates may be shortlisted on the basis of information supplied on application form/curriculum vitae. The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 5.00 p.m. on Thursday September 22nd 2016 Canvassing will disqualify. Roscommon Leisure Centre is an equal opportunities employer.

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB?

Have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

KELLY TRUCKS Strokestown & Ballaghaderreen Ltd HAVE VACANCIES FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS:

HGV MECHANICS AND APPRENTICES These vacancies are based in Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Centrally located around 20 minutes from Roscommon town, Longford town and Carrick-onShannon Co. Leitrim

WE ALSO HAVE A VACANCY FOR:

HGV MECHANICS This vacancy is based in Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon On the Co. Mayo border and close to Co. Sligo also.

IF YOU WOULD BE INTERESTED IN THE ABOVE POSITIONS PLEASE CALL US ON: TEL: 071 96 37070 (Strokestown) OR 094 98 60444 (Ballaghaderreen) OR BY EMAIL: kellytruckstownltd@gmail.com

Greenfields Childcare LEGAL NOTICE AN CHUIRT DUICHE THE DISTRICT COURT DISTRICT COURT AREA OF ROSCOMMON DISTRICT NO.: 4.

LICENSING (IRELAND) ACT 1833, SECTION 6 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CONFIRMATION OF TRANSFER OF ON-LICENCE APPLICANT – PAUL DONOGHUE TAKE NOTICE that the above named Applicant of “An Tobar”, The Square, Roscommon intends to apply to the Court at The Courthouse, Roscommon on the 20th day of September, 2016 at 10.30 a.m. for the transfer to him of the Licence attached to the premises known as “An Tobar”, The Square, Roscommon Town, in the Court Area aforesaid and which said premises is presently licensed in his name, Paul Donoghue. Dated this 26th day of August 2016 SIGNED: Gearoid Geraghty & Company,

TO:

AND:

Solicitors for Applicant, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. District Court Clerk, Government Buildings, Golf Links Road, Roscommon Superintendent, Garda Siochana, Roscommon. Chief Fire Officer, Roscommon County Council Roscommon.

PLANNING EXTRA ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Permission for Retention is sought for existing wastewater treatment system, previous planning reference No. 01/1738 & 03/963 refer. Permission is sought for alterations to site boundaries previously approved under planning reference No. 01/1738 & 03/963 and construct a domestic garage together with all associated site works and services at Knockadaff Td, Knockvicar, Boyle, Co. Roscommon for Sean O’ Hara. Signed: Sean O’Hara. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

ASSISTANT MANAGER Maternity Contract 30 hours per week, Monday to Friday This position is in a busy Childcare setting and the successful candidate will be supporting all areas of the business including financial returns, office administration, liaising with agencies such as RCCC, Pobal and Tusla as well and supporting the needs of a childcare service. Essential Criteria: FETAC level 6 in childcare Proficient in Word & Excel Driving Licence and own transport Desirable Criteria: Knowledge of schemes: ECCE, CETS, CCS Flexibility to work in all areas of Childcare Garda Clearance is a requirement for these posts Closing date for applications is 5pm 8th September 2016 Canvassing will disqualify Please forward your CV to: Lisa O’Neill Greenfields Childcare & Montessori Centre Lisnamult, Roscommon

Greenfields Childcare is an equal opportunities employer

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES KILLIAN Eilish

FITZGERALD James (Jimmy)

GALLAGHER Hugh

Hollywell, Roscommon (20th Anniversary) In loving memory of Eilish, who died on 1st September 1996

Rahara, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Who died on September 1st 2008 (8th Anniversary)

Ardsallagh, Roscommon (13th Anniversary)

McGEE (nee Browne) Mary (Mae) Late of Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon Who died on the 22nd of September, 2015

Cherished memories of Hugh, who passed away on the 5th September 2003 May the winds of love blow softly, And whisper for you to hear, We will always love and miss you, And wish that you were here. If it’s memories that keep us close, Then we are never far apart, For you are always on our minds, And forever in our hearts.

Lovingly remembered by Mammy, Aine and John. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 3rd September at 7pm in Derrane Church.

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

Always remembered by his wife Rose and family. Anniversary Mass in Rahara Church on Sunday the 18th September at 10am.

FLANAGAN Brendan Cornashinagh, Fourmilehouse (3rd Anniversary)

Some day, we hope to meet again. Some day, we know not when. To clasp your hand In a better land, Never to part again.

Loved and remembered by Celene and family. Rest in Peace.

McDERMOTT Geraldine (3rd Anniversary)

O’CONNOR (nee Mulryan)

Ann (Nancy)

Treasured memories of a beloved wife, mother and grandmother, Ann (Nancy) O’Connor (nee Mulryan), late of Ballinamore Bridge, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, who died on September 7th 2013 Beautiful memories are wonderful things, They last till the longest day, They never wear out, They never get lost, And can never be given away. To some you may be forgotten, To others a part of the past. But to us who loved and lost you, Your memory will always last.

Sadly missed by husband Padraic, daughters Marie, Karen and Barbara, sons Joe and Seamus, daughters-inlaw Valerie and Lorraine, sons-in-law Mike, Ciaran and Manus, granddaughters Ciara, Aoife, Naoise and Suin and grandsons Joshua, Aodhan, Odhran and Fionnan. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 10th September at 12 noon in St. Brendan’s Church, Toghergar.

In loving memory of our dear Brendan, whom God called Home on 30th August 2013 It broke our hearts to lose you But you didn’t go alone, For part of us went with you The day God called you Home. Those we love must someday pass Beyond our present sight, Must leave us and the world we know Without their radiant light. But we know that like a candle Their lovely light will surely shine To brighten up another place. More perfect, More divine, And in the realm of Heaven where they shine so warm and bright, Our loved ones live forever in God’s Eternal Light.

Forever missed and loved by his wife Mary, sons John and Martin, daughters Jacqueline, Tracy, Elaine, Leonie and Ashling, sonin-law Ian, brother Patsy, sisters Ita, Madeline, Anne and Jean and extended family and friends. Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Fourmilehouse on Sunday 4th of September at 11am.

We hold you close within our hearts, And there you shall remain, To walk with us throughout our lives, Until we meet again. So rest in peace dear loved one, And thanks for all you’ve done, We pray that God has given you, The crown you’ve truly won.

Loved and remembered always by Noel, Martin, Marie, Eva and Judy and extended family. Anniversary Mass in Kiltrustan Church on Saturday 3rd September at 8pm.

CONNAUGHTON Kathleen Coolatubber, Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Kathleen, who died on September 2nd 1995 Will those who think of her today A little prayer to Jesus say.

Always remembered by her husband Tommy Joe, daughter Mary and family.

We the family of the late Mary McGee wish to sincerely thank everybody who sympathised with us on her death. Thank you to all who called to the family home to pay their respects, to those who sent Mass Cards, flowers, letters and messages of sympathy. We would like to express our gratitude to all her neighbours and friends who supported her throughout her life. Our sincere thanks to Fr. Sean Beirne, Chaplain, Ms. Julie Silke-Daly, Director of Nursing, Doctors, Nurses, Carers and all the Staff at the Sacred Heart Hospital, Roscommon for their exceptional care during her final years spent there. A special thanks to Fr. Hugh Lee, C.C. Curraghboy, Fr. Francis Beirne, Fr. Pat Hogan and the late Fr. John Leogue (R.I.P.), who concelebrated her Funeral Mass and to Deacon Willie Gacquin for his participation, guidance and support. Thanks to the Altar Servers and to Liam Gately, Marian Killeen and Maura O’Brien for their beautiful music and hymns. We would like to say a particular thank you to all our neighbours and friends who catered for the large numbers attending her Removal and who oversaw management of traffic and parking arrangements. Thanks also to the Undertakers, Enda McHugh and Donal Hamrock for their courtesy and professionalism shown in arranging her Funeral. A special thank you to the gravediggers for preparing her final resting place. As it is not possible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude and appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. First Anniversary Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy on Sunday next September 4th at 10.30am.

BRANDON SPAIN Mary Ballinahown, Athlone (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Mary, who died on the 7th September 2013 Rest In Peace Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us everyday, Unseen, unheard, But always near, Still loved, still missed Still very dear.

Loved and sadly missed by her husband Paul, daughter Maria, brother, sisters and extended family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 11th September at 11.30am in Ballinahown Church.

GERAGHTY Michael (Mickey) Mount Mary, Ballygar, Co. Galway 5th Anniversary 1st September

A silent house An empty chair Something missing everywhere. Life goes on, we know that’s true. But it’s not the same since we lost you.

Sadly missed by Mary, Kelly Ann, Philip, Val and Danny. Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar on Friday, 2nd September at 7.30pm.

CAMPBELL Peter Vesnoy and Elphin St., Strokestown Died 31/8/2015 R.I.P. (1st Anniversary)

GILLERAN Patrick, Teresa and Gerry Late of Clooncraff, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon (21st, 6th and 3rd Anniversaries)

To us you were so special, What more is there to say Our only wish with all our hearts that you were here today.

Always remembered by your loving family.

NAUGHTON James

GAVIGAN Kathleen

Mullaghard, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon 19th October 2007 (9th Anniversary)

Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon (11th Anniversary)

No special day is needed For us to think of you You are always in our thoughts No matter what we do. You’re more than a Precious memory From whom we had to part. You are the light that burns within us, In the centre of our hearts.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Teresa, daughters, son, sonsin-law, grandchildren and extended family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 3rd of September in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan at 10.30am.

Our lives go on without you But nothing is the same We have to hide our heartache When someone speaks your name Sad are the hearts that love you Silent the tears that fall Living our lives without you is the hardest part of all

Loved and remembered by your husband Noel, daughters, sons-in-law and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 3rd of September in St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh at 8pm.

Family Notices • Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Rembrance Call into our office: Abbey Street, Roscommon Treasured memories and lovingly remembered by his loving wife and family. Anniversary Mass in Parish Church, Strokestown on September 3rd 2016 at 12 midday.

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Fax: (090) 66 34303 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Our deadline for receipt of Family Notices is 2.30pm on Tuesday. We cannot guarantee publication after this time.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

FamilyNotices/Classifieds ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES DESPARD Richard (Dick)

MURPHY Gerry

O’HANRAHAN Sean

O’CONNOR Mary

COSTELLO Patrick

McDONNELL (Michael)

Castlerea, Co. Roscommon and Templeogue, Dublin 6

Ros-Ria, The Walk, Roscommon (3rd Anniversary) 2nd September 2013

Roxboro, Roscommon Who passed away on 3rd September 2015

Tullaghan, Ballymurry, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

(15th Anniversary) In loving memory of Patrick, who died on 31st August 2001

Radharc na Coille, Kilmovee, Co. Mayo (4th Anniversary) 11th September, 2012

Your vacant place no one can fill We miss you dad and always will.

The family of the late Richard Despard of Castlerea, Co. Roscommon and formerly of Osprey Pk., Templeogue, Dublin, wishes to acknowledge and offer our sincere thanks to all of our relatives, many friends and neighbours, who attended the Reposal Service and Burial and for providing their unwavering support to us, at such a difficult time. For those who travelled long distances, telephoned, sent flowers, cards and messages of condolence as well as those who made charitable donations we are forever truly grateful. For the professional and compassionate care of Richard, we are truly indebted to the medical and care staff at: Sligo University Hospital; Galway University Hospital and Roscommon County Hospital. We would also like to thank Dr. Michael Henry for his compassionate treatment of Richard. For their efficient, dignified and extremely sensitive approach to every request, we are so grateful to Paul and Susan Gaynor at Gaynor’s Funeral Directors for their handling of the funeral Service. We would like to sincerely thank Rev. Alastair Donaldson, Ballinlough Church for his thoughtful Ceremony and words of comfort. We are so thankful and appreciative of everyone who helped or contributed in any way during the past few weeks. We hope you understand that it is not possible to mention everyone individually, therefore, we hope you will accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude and appreciation to you all. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Richard’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea on Monday 5th September at 11am.

To me you were so special Sweet memories I recall A face so full of sunshine A smile for one and all No matter how life changes No matter what I do A special place within my heart Will always be with you.

Your loving wife Paula. Anniversary Mass at 10.30am on Thursday 29th September in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ He never looked for praises He was never one to boast He just went on quietly working for the ones he loved the most. His dreams were seldom spoken His wants were very few And most of the time his worries went unspoken too. He was there ... a firm foundation Through all our storms of life A sturdy hand to hold onto In times of stress and strife. A true friend we could turn to When times were good or bad One of our greatest blessings The man that we called Dad.

Sadly missed, loved always Sheena, Joe, Joshua and Adam. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MURPHY Gerry Ros-Ria, The Walk Road, Roscommon (3rd Anniversary) They say there is a reason They say that time will heal But neither time nor reason Will change the way I feel, For no one knows the heartache that lies behind our smiles No one knows how many times We have broken down and cried We want to tell you something So there won’t be any doubt You’re so wonderful to think of But so hard to be without.

Loved and remembered always by your daughter Donna and son Aaron xxxx ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

MURPHY Gerry Ros-Ria, The Walk Road, Roscommon May the winds of love blow softly And whisper for you to hear We will always love and miss you And wish that you were here. If it’s memories that keep us close Then we are never far apart For you are always on our minds And forever in our hearts.

Lovingly remembered by Seamus, Liz, Lorna, Shan, Jamie, Shauna, Enda and Mason.

The family of the late Sean O’Hanrahan wish to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised and supported us on the passing of Sean, our beloved father and grandfather. A very special thanks to all our neighbours, friends and relatives who called to the house, attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial and those who travelled long distances to be with us, sent Mass Cards and flowers. A special thanks to Yola and Ann and all his home carers for their support and compassion. Thank you to Dr. John Keenan, Dr. Claire Quinn and staff of the Medical Centre, Roscommon. We are very grateful for the great care taken of Sean by the staff of Roscommon County Hospital and Portiuncula Hospital. Thanks to Monsignor Charles Travers, Fr. Eugene McLoughlin and Fr. Raymond Browne for their prayers at the Funeral Home and concelebrating the Funeral Mass. Thanks also to the Altar Servers and Church Choir. We thank Tom and Pat Smyth for their professionalism, the gravediggers who prepared Sean’s resting place and to the members of Roscommon Cooperative Livestock Mart and IFA who performed a Guard of Honour. Thanks to Anya and the Grealy family for their kind hospitality. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually we hope that this acknowledgement will be accepted as a token of our deep appreciation. Sean’s First Anniversary Mass will take place on Sunday 4th of September 2016 at 12.15pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

In loving memory of Mary, who passed away on September 2nd 2014 We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again. So rest in peace dear loved one And thanks for all you’ve done We pray that God has given you The crown you’ve truly won.

Sadly missed by her husband Tommy, son David, daughters Stephanie, Pauline, Patricia and Eithne, brothers Sean and Michael, her grandchildren and extended family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday September 3rd at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery.

HEALY Austin (Jnr) Oaklawn Drive, Roscommon 19th Anniversary September 5th

A life so young released to Heaven Left on earth we wonder why, But some are sent among us briefly, Some have spirits meant to fly.

Remembered always by Mam, Assumpta, Liz, Siobhan, David, Elma, Megan, Mikayla and Zoe xxxx Anniversary Mass on September 5th at 8am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

Dearly loved and sadly missed by your daughter Martina, Jimmy, and family. ~~~~~~~~~~~~

COSTELLO Patrick Nothing can replace you Nothing ever will In life we loved you dearly, in death we love you still.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by your son Noel, Kathey and family.

Never more than a thought away.

Loved and remembered every day by wife Caitriona, daughters Lucia and Eloise. Anniversary Mass in Church of the Immaculate Conception, Kilmovee on Saturday September 10th at 12noon.

THANKSGIVINGS NOTICES PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH OF CUPERTINO Second Prayer O St. Joseph of Cupertino who by your prayer obtained from God to be asked at your examination, the only preposition you knew. Grant that I may like you succeed in the (here mention the name of Examination eg. History paper 1) examination. In return I promise to make you known and cause you to be invoked. O St. Joseph of Cupertino pray for me. O Holy Ghost enlighten me. Our Lady of Good Studies pray for me Sacred Head of Jesus. Seat of divine wisdom, enlighten me. Remember, when you succeed in the exams then you should thank St. Joseph of Cupertino in the Newspaper. C.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. M.K. PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE For urgent need and just causes... Our dear martyr and protector, Saint Expedite, You who know what is necessary and what is urgently needed. I beg you to intercede before the Holy Trinity, that by your grace my request will be granted. (Clearly express what you want, and ask him to find a way to get it to you.) May I receive your blessings and favors. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen. If Saint Expedite grants your request, place fresh flowers beside his statue in your home or in the church. Also place an ad in the newspaper thanking Saint Expedite, so that his name and fame will grow. 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. M.R. 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.D.

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. M.D. PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN O Most Beautiful Flower of Mt. Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days. M.M. 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.M. PRAYER FOR A SPECIAL REQUEST Pray for 3 days. Publish on the 3rd day. See what will happen on the 4th day. Oh! Dear Mother of God, Our Lady of Conception Aparecida! Oh! Saint Rita of Cassia and Saint Jude worker of miracles and helper of impossible causes pray for me. Saint Expedite, Saint of urgent causes. Saint Edwiges the Saint of the needy, you know how desperate I feel, please ask Jesus to help me. (Here mention your request). May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored and glorified for ever. Pray 1 Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be... Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. H.C.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

SportsPeople Weekend of high drama as champions crash out

Eyes still on the prize!

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t was a weekend of high drama in the senior and intermediate football championships. There were thrills and spills and major shocks at almost every turn on Saturday and Sunday; not least the elimination of the senior champions Clann na nGael when they were beaten by a resurgent Boyle who put 4-13 past the Johnstown men in Ballintubber to win by five points with county senior star, Enda Smith, scoring a sensational 2-3 for Mick Jordan’s Boyle who qualify for the quarter-finals. In another tense encounter in Kilbride, Roscommon Gaels needed to get at least a draw against top of the table Pádraig Pearses to progress to the quarter-finals. A point from substitute Aidan Duignan in the 7th minute of injury-time gave the town side a dramatic draw after Pearses sub Daniel Glynn scored a controversial goal to put Pearses ahead three minutes earlier. There were four black cards and one red shown in the final 10 minutes as tempers reached boiling point. Pearses finished top of Group A with 7 points and qualify for the semi-finals. In the final game in Group A, St. Brigid’s gave notice to allcomers that they are determined to regain the title when they crushed Castlerea by 22 points at Strokestown. As a result of the defeat Castlerea will drop down to Group B of the SFC next year, while Brigid’s qualify for the semi-finals. In Group B, St. Faithleach’s shocked fancied Strokestown at Kilglass and as a result of a dramatic draw between St. Croan’s and Elphin in Loughglynn, Faithleach’s stole into the quarterfinals ahead of Strokestown and Elphin. Western Gaels overcame two red cards to beat Michael Glavey’s by nine points to head the table and secure a quarter-final spot and a place in Group A next year. The play-off situation is as follows: In the SFC quarter-finals Roscommon Gaels v Western Gaels (the winners to play Pádraig Pearses in the semi-final), Boyle to play St. Faithleach’s (the winners to play St. Brigid’s in the semi-final). Meanwhile in the Mulryan Construction IFC Group A, Fuerty continued their impressive run with a 12-point win against St. Dominic’s and they qualify for the semi-final at the top of the table. Tulsk will also play in the semi-finals after a draw against Kilmore, who qualify for the quarter-finals. Oran will also play in the quarter-finals after a win against Kilbride. In Group B, the game between Éire Óg and St. Barry’s was postponed while St. Aidan’s gave themselves a great chance of making the quarter-finals with a four point win against Shannon Gaels. Highest scorers of the weekend were St. Michael’s who put up 5-14 against Clann na nGael. The IFC play-off situation will be decided after the Éire Óg v St. Barry’s game is played.

Pádraig Pearses and Roscommon Gaels advanced to the semi-finals and quarter-finals of the Roscommon Senior Football Championship respectively after late drama last weekend. Full report inside… Pic: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

SportsPeople

Boyle star signals Enda Clann’s reign Strokestown Hodson Bay Roscommon SFC (Group A) BOYLE

4-13

CLANN NA NGAEL

2-14

Boyle deservedly pulled off one of the biggest shocks in many a year in Roscommon club football when they knocked reigning champions Clann na nGael out of this year’s Senior Football Championship with a superb display of attacking football at Ballintubber on Saturday evening last. Having beaten Roscommon Gaels in round four, Mick Jordan’s men had to repeat the dose against the champions and they were not found wanting in a pul-

sating encounter. Boyle were excellent from the first whistle and the goal their excellent early play deserved came from Sean Purcell who had a super game at centre half-back. By half-time, Boyle led by 1-9 to 0-7 with Roch Hanmore and Kieran Cox more than matching Cathal and Donie Shine in the Clann midfield. Further forward Cian McKeon and Enda Smith were in superb form and gave the Clann defence many headaches.

There were two goals in quick succession early in the second half. First, Enda Smith blasted home a superb goal to put Boyle six points up but almost immediately, Ultan Harney struck for the champions to bring them back into the game. The lead was down to one with twelve to play before David Callaghan scored Boyle’s third goal. The margin was four in Boyle’s favour when in injury-time Ultan Harney fisted a Donie Shine free to the Boyle net. But Boyle were not to be denied and Enda Smith scored a spectacular goal two minutes later and then

he scored a point to break Clann’s resistance. It was a fantastic win from Boyle who now play St. Faithleach’s in the quarter-final, while for Clann they will have to pack their championship bags until next year. They could have had no complaints about this result. Best for Boyle were Tadgh Lowe, Seanie Purcell, Kieran Cox, Roch Hanmore, Darren O’Connor Enda Smith and Cian McKeon. For a shell-shocked Clann, Ultan Harney, Donie Shine, Fergal Lennon and Graham Pettit were prominent. Boyle: T Lowe; G Gilmartin, M Hanmore (0-1),C

Beirne; D East, S Purcell (1-0), T McKenna (0-1); K Cox, R Hanmore; E Smith (2-3), K Cox, D O’Connor (0-1); D Callaghan (1-0), J Suffin (0-1), C McKeon (0-6). Sub: M O’Donoghue for East. Clann na nnGael: C Hannon; R Gavin, S Flynn, G Pettit; J Connaughton, D Flynn, F Lennon; C Shine (0-3), D Shine (0-9); C Callinan, R McManus, M Scally (0-1); J Fahy, U Harney (2-0), J Dunning. Subs: D Pettit for McManus, C McManus (0-1) for Fahy, D Connaughton for Dunning, S Pettit for Gavin, R Naughton for Callinan. Referee: Ollie Kelly.

Honours even in bad-tempered affair Hodson Bay Roscommon SFC Round 5 (Group A) PÁDRAIG PEARSES

1-11

ROSCOMMON GAELS

1-11

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Anyone who thought that there was little intensity in the Roscommon Club Championship this year got their answer in Kilbride last Saturday night when Roscommon Gaels and Pádraig Pearses shared the spoils in a game that was always fiercely competitive and which ended in chaotic fashion as tempers boiled over in the final few minutes. As it was, Gaels sub Aidan Duignan’s point from 30 metres in the 7th minute of injury-time levelled the scores after Pearses had taken the lead with a controversial goal, fisted home by sub Daniel Glynn in the 33rd minute. Referee Brendan Healy had an almost impossible task in that final period and he issued no less than five black cards and one straight red as skirmishes broke out on a number of occasions. But thankfully it never really got out of hand. There was good football too. The Gaels were much the better side in the opening half and they deservedly led by five points at the break. But Pearses regrouped at halftime and brought on the returning Conor Daly, and they edged back into the contest and that Glynn goal saw them lead deep into injury-time. With David O’Gara and Richard Hughes outstanding in defence, the Gaels were impressive in the opening half. Cian Connolly was very lively up front as the town team went

into a 0-5 to 0-2 lead by the 18th minute with Connolly pointing two frees and Kieran Kilcline, James McDermott and Paul Gleeson pointing from play. Niall Daly and Emmet Kelly replied for Pearses. The Gaels led by 0-7 to 0-4 when they broke through for an excellent goal in the 28th minute. Oliver Hannon started the move and a superb pass from Cian Connolly found Brian Kelly who finished expertly to help the Gaels to a 1-7 to 0-5 lead at halftime. But Pearses were a different proposition in the second half. The introduction of Conor Daly and Tom Butler was crucial and the accuracy of Hubert Darcy saw them come thundering back into the game. David O’Gara increased the Gaels’ lead to six on the restart but Pearses took over after that. They scored four points without reply from Hubert Darcy (3, 2 frees) and Niall Daly to leave the margin at two by the 45th minute. Points from Kieran Kilcline and Brian Kelly steadied the ship for the Gaels by the 53rd minute but Pearses were on top and the exchanges became bad tempered as the winning post came into view. Cillian Egan missed two glorious chances to extend the Gaels’ lead, but Pearses were on top. Hubert Darcy pointed two more frees to narrow the gap to two again by the 58th minute. Roscommon Gaels had two subs, Brian Cleary and Johnnie Conteh, black carded within minutes

Kieran Kilcline shows great agility as he pivots away from Davey Murray and Niall Carty to create a scoring opportunity. Picture: Andrew Fox

of their introduction. Then a goalmouth scramble saw Pearses sub Daniel Glynn fist the ball to the Gaels net in the third minute of injurytime and there was a melee as the goal was disputed by Roscommon Gaels players. Pearses veteran Seanie Fahy was shown a red card for another incident as tensions rose even further. Roscommon Gaels’ James McDermott was also black carded in the confusion. The goal was eventually allowed to stand, and Pearses were ahead. But Gaels sub Aidan Duignan rescued his team with a fine point in the 7th minute of injury-time. As it turned out the Gaels’ would have made it through anyway as Boyle had beaten Clann na nGael but they were not to know that and the game ended in a welter of excitement with Pearses finishing top of the Group

A table. Pádraig Pearses: Adam McManus; Paul Kelly, Anthony Butler, Shane Carty; Cathal Óg Sulloivan, David Murray, Niall Daly (0-2); Niall Carty, Eamon Donoghue; Emmet Kelly (0-1), Hubert Darcy (0-5, 4 frees), Shane Dolan; Conor Payne (0-1), Aaron Fehily (0-1), Seanie Fahy (0-1). Subs: Tom Butler for E Kelly (h/ t), Conor Daly for P Kelly (32), Daniel Glynn (1-0) for Sullivan (black card 42), Adrian Mannion for Carty (black card 65). Roscommon Gaels: James Fetherstone; Ryan Horan,

John McManus, Liam McNeela; Kevin O’Gara, David O’Gara (0-1), Paul Gleeson (0-1); James McDermott (0-1), Kieran Kilcline (03); Richard Hughes, John Nolan, Brian Kelly (1-1); Oliver Hannon, Cian Connolly (0-3, 2 frees), Cillian Egan. Subs: Aidan Duignan (0-1) for Nolan (39), Brian Cleary for D O’Gara (52), Johnnie Conteh for Hannon (54), James O’Gara for Egan (55), Ronan Gleeson for Cleary (black card 55), Oisin Hession for Conteh (black card 57), James McDermott (black card 63). Referee: Brendan Healy

Wides: Roscommon Gaels 8 Pádraig Pearses 8 Man of the Match: Hubert Darcy (Pádraig Pearses) Yellow Cards: None Black Cards: Pearses - 2 Cathal Óg Sullivan and Niall Carty. Roscommon Gaels 3 - Johnnie Conteh, Brian Cleary, James McDermott Red Cards: Pearses 1- Seanie Fahy. Ros Gaels: None

crash out as Faithleach’s march on! Hodson Bay Roscommon SFC Round 5 (Group B) ST. FAITHLEACH’S STROKESTOWN

2-9 0-10

< SEAMUS DUKE

St. Faithleach’s came to Kilglass last Sunday and not only did they achieve a shock win against neighbours Strokestown, they knocked them out of the senior championship and the Ballyleague side are now in the quarter-finals themselves! It was a remarkable game in which Strokestown totally dominated for the first quarter but Faithleach’s powered into the game after that and scored 2-6 without reply to build up a winning lead that they never surrendered. Strokestown led by 0-5 to 0-0 after 14 minutes and they also missed at least two goals in that period as well. Kevin Finn (2, 1 free), Luke Kelly, Michael Fallon (a ’45) and Diarmuid McGann were on target as Strokestown dominated. But out of nowhere, and with no warning Faithleach’s got their act together and they cut through the Strokestown defence time after time for the next 21 minutes of play. Senan O’Grady was majestic on his return to the Faithleach’s team and he was the most impressive player on view and dominated the midfield sector as Strokestown faded out altogether. Ciaráin Murtagh began the Faithleach’s revival with a pointed free in the 15th minute and two minutes later Diarmuid Murtagh and brother Ciaran combined to set Dave Rooney away and he blasted to the Strokestown net for a spectacular goal. Further points from Ciaráin Murtagh (2), Diarmuid Murtagh and Darragh Hussey saw Faithleach’s pull away from a shell-shocked Strokestown. A minute before the break Stephen Ormsby played a peach of a pass to Darragh Hussey who fisted home a simple goal and leave the half-time score St. Faithleach’s 2-5 Strokestown 0-5. The sides shared four points in the opening 10 minutes of the second half with Ciaráin Murtagh and Aidan Dooney scoring for Faithleach’s and Colin Compton and Kevin Finn (free) scoring for Strokestown, and although Strokestown were on top, they were making no inroads into the Faithleach’s lead. Strokestown’s wides total of 16 tells its own story, and they missed at least three more goal chances as they desperately searched for the scores that would bring them back into the game. They scored four points in a row through Kevin Finn (free), Michael Fallon, and Diarmuid McGann (2) to narrow the gap to three with seven minutes left. But Faithleach’s were never flustered, and they calmly went downfield to score the final two points of the game through Diarmuid Murtagh and Dave Rooney to seal a famous win against the odds. The players of both sides and many of the spectators waited out on the field for news from the Elphin v St. Croan’s match, and when the result (a draw) was confirmed there were wild celebrations in the Faithleach’s camp while Strokestown trooped off disconsolate. It has been another very frustrating year for this highly-rated Strokestown team who will be wondering how they managed to blow their chances of a quarter-final spot. For Faithleach’s, they can look forward to a quarter-final tilt against Boyle. St. Faithleach’s: Alan Manning; Brian Scally, Stephen Ormsby, Mikey Cox; John Walsh, Daniel Foley, David Harrison; Brian Murtagh, Senan O’Grady; Kevin Farrell, Ciaráin Murtagh (0-4, 1 free), Dave Rooney (1-1); Diarmuid Murtagh (0-2, 1 free), Darragh Hussey (1-1), Aidan Dooney (0-1). Strokestown: Niall Curley; Keelan Beirne, Sean Mullooly, Donal Molloy; David Neary, Paddy Brogan, Luke Kelly (0-1); Daniel Rogers, Cathal Compton; Michael Fallon (0-2, 1 ’45), Kevin Finn (0-3, 2 frees), Tom Corcoran; Keith Murphy, Colin Compton (0-1), Diarmuid McGann (0-3). Subs: Seamus Collins for Murphy (46), Matthew Colum for Kelly (56). Referee: Seamus Regan Wides: St. Faithleach’s 8 Strokestown 16 Man of the Match: Senan O’Grady (St. Faithleach’s) Note: Thanks to the Kilglass Gaels club for their hospitality last Sunday.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

SportsPeople No racing this weekend until Friday evening when Kilbeggan provides the action over the sticks at 4.40 pm for the closing of their season for 2016. Saturday racing is a national hunt card at Proudstown Park outside Navan where the first is at 2.15 pm. The all weather at Dundalk has Sunday all to itself stalls open for the first at 1.30 pm. Monday evening, flat racing, and Tuesday evening, national hunt racing, see action return to Ballybrit in Galway. Racing continues in the west in Sligo on Wednesday. No luck for Michael Ward’s Angelica Yeats in Down Royal on Friday as she had to settle for 4th behind Peter Maher’s Joy’s Gift who was 2nd at the Galway Festival. Following up his national hunt wins at the Cheltenham Festival and over Aintree’s famous Grand National fences top Irish point to point rider Jamie Codd added the famous Epsom Downs after making his first visit to the track count aboard the favourite, Hubertas for John Quinn in the Amateur Derby on Monday.

Jump racing Budweiser Hurdle had the smallest field of the day with only 4 runners, and was won by the Noel Meade trained Snow Falcon easily by 5 ½ l from Saddler’s Risk with Aranhill Chief in 3rd and Simenon a very disappointing 4th and last. The handicap hurdle provided the closest finish of the evening as the favourite. Liam Cusack’s Lasoscar and 2nd favourite. Sean Doyle’s Craig Star engaged in a dour battle from the last which at the line even the camera could not separate them with a dead heat a fair result all round. Profoundly finished 3rd another 6½l away. JJ Slevin was on board Craig Star giving him his first win as a pro, which unfortunately earned him a one-day holiday for use of the whip. In the bumper my fancy, Let’s Twist Again, had to settle for runner up 5l behind Dos Piscas completing a double for Noel Meade with Nina Carberry in the plate and Allez Sea another 1½l behind in the minor place. The final meeting of the 2016 season at Roscommon is scheduled for September 26th and we will have our final competition of the year for tickets next week.

Lenebane Review

General News

Racing on Monday opened with the 7f Maiden for 2-Y-Os and a win for Aidan O’Brien’s joint favourite Sir Edward Landseer, ridden by son Donnacha from Cascavelle by 1¾l with Ice Canyon 1½l away in 3rd. In the second, Valentana once again defied the handicapper completing her hat trick over Gentil J and Ducky Mallon by 2l and 3l for Willie McCreery and Billy Lee. In the fillies handicap Tara Dylan returned to the winner’s enclosure, after a narrow defeat at Navan attempting her hat trick, for Tony Mullins beating the Dermot Weld trained favourite Malinka and Ibergman by 1¾l and ½l. In the fillies maiden, again sponsored by the EBF, Dermot Weld and Pat Smullen gained quick compensation for Malinka’s defeat when A Shin Kildare finished 1½l in front of Aidan O’Brien’s second string Eavesdrop with Hibiscus filling third spot 8½l back in 3rd.

Trainer David Wachman, 45, has announced that he will retire at the end of this season after 20 years to spend more time with his family and on other business interests. His first winner was in a hurdle race in Clonmel with Middle Mogs. In 2015 he won his first classic with Again at the Curragh 1000 Guineas in 2009 having finished unplaced as a 2-Y-O in Roscommon and won the Newmarket equivalent with Legatissimo in 2012. He also trained the first winner for Michael O’Leary when Tuco won the Landrover Bumper at Fairyhouse a year later. The winner of the final leg of the Charles Byrnes Roscommon treble in August, Top Of The Town, followed up with another win on Thursday at 7/4, a well-backed favourite. The 8-Y-O kept on under pressure from Davy Russell on the run-in to win easily 4¼l and a head from Garri Rua and Rendezvous

This weekend’s action

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

Craig Star, right, and Lasoscar lock horns over the last at Roscommon Monday evening.

Park at Bellewstown. Ryan Moore followed Fran Berry’s example by making his return to action, after injury, a winning one last Friday at Newmarket on Spatial. He had been absent since Goodwood. Andrew Lynch joined the walking wounded in Cork with a fall off Idee Emery on Sunday breaking his right arm. He will be out for a couple of months missing Listowel. Point to Point, and amateur rider JJ Slevin has decided to join the paid ranks and had his first ride as a professional at Bellewstown last Thursday on Crosshue Boy for Sean Thomas Doyle. He was quick to make it pay at Roscommon on Monday. With the disqualification of the English-trained Any Currency in the Cross Country Race at the Cheltenham Festival and the awarding of the race to Enda Bolger’s Josie’s Orders and Nina Carberry does it mean that with the new Irish tally at 15 against Britain’s 14 Ireland are the outright holders of the Betright Cup. Choc Thornton should now pass the cup, which on foot of the draw he claimed as holders,

onto Hector Ó hEochagáin, captain of the Irish team. Talking about jockey competitions: Ireland won the Australia versus Ireland jump jockeys challenge at Adelaide city track Morphettville after trailing going into the final day’s racing. Katie Walsh and Ian MaCarthy both rode winners on the final day last weekend. There are 10 of the 31 horses in the Melbourne Cup at this stage trained in Ireland. Aidan O’Brien trains 7 including Order Of St George, Willie Mullins two: Clondaw Warrior and Wicklow Brave; with Tony Martin’s Galway Hurdle and Ebor winner Heartbreak City completing the Irish contingent..

Competition Time This week the winners of our penultimate 2016 competition for three pairs of tickets for Kilbeggan next Friday evening are Dominic Tobin, Joe Rooney and Martin Treacy. Thanks to all you readers who supported the competitions throughout the year and to Paddy Dunican and his committee for sponsoring them.

Create opportunities through Community Coaching! Roscommon Sports Partnership in association with Sport Ireland and funding from the Dormant Accounts Fund would like to invite applications from people who want to become a fully qualified Gaelic, soccer and rugby coach, and are able to commit to two days a

week to attend this course. The programme is open to men and women who what to become a part-time or full-time coach/tutor. Sarah Mulligan, course coordinator, said: “I could not be happier with how the course went last year, we helped some

really good participants to further develop their skills and we have been lucky enough to work with some of them since on our programmes as tutors, and hopefully we will get to work with each and everyone one of last year’s participants. We are hoping that this year will be just as successful.” The Community

Coaching Course is an exciting initiative. Training will consist of Gaelic, soccer, rugby, cycling, child protection, Occupational First Aid, Active Leadership, job seeking skills and motivational skills. All of which would help participants to identify possible employment opportunities after the 13-

week programme. According to Noel Feeley, Sports Coordinator of the Roscommon Sports Partnership the aim of the course is to ensure that participants have the skills to coach or tutor in the area of sports and physical activity. As with the majority of our programmes this a

multi-agency approach with help from the GRETB, Department of Social Protection, FAI and GAA. The programme will consist of a 13-week course, with proposed starting date of the 6th September operating for two days a week, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, hours are generally 9.30 am – 4 pm. The course will include coaching training as well as some experience in schools, community and youth

groups. The venue will be Roscommon town. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity or pass this information on to someone you think would be interested. If you want to find out more about this highly exciting initiative, please contact Roscommon Sports Partnership on 090 6630853 or email sarah@rosactive.org as soon as possible as places are limited. We are on Facebook for updates as well, https:// www.facebook.com/

Roscommon Sports Partnership COMMUNITY COACHING COURSE: Are you interested in becoming a qualified coach?

Notice is hereby given that the

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Course starting: 6th September 2016. Qualifications will include: Occupational First Aid, FAI, GAA, Child Protection, IRFU Rugby Coaching, Cycling, and much more.

of Roscommon Sports Partnership Limited

THIS IS A FREE COURSE OFFERED TO INTERESTED PARTICIPANTS

in Áras an Chontae, Roscommon County Council Civic Buildings, Roscommon

Please contact 09066 30853 or sarah@rosactive.org to register your interest ASAP as places are limited.

will take place on

Tuesday, 27 September 2016, at 8pm Pictured are Roscommon sports officials who lead the Community Coaching programme: Adrian Carberry (FAI Development Officer); Noel Feeley (Coordinator Roscommon Sports Partnership); Rosaleen McCourt (Administrator Roscommon Sports Partnership); Emma Jane Clarke (Sports Ireland); Sarah Mulligan (Course Coordinator); Aidan Farrell (Chairperson Roscommon Sports Partnership) and Willie Hegarty (GAA Development Officer).

All Sports Clubs, Active Retirement Groups and those interested in Sport and Leisure Activities are requested to attend / send a representative.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

SportsPeople

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

There was a great turnout last Sunday in Ballymoe as FAI CEO John Delaney officially opened the new all-weather pitch at Ballymoe FC.

It’s all kicking off in the RDFL! Danger here! Dan Dooner takes a tongue-in-cheek look ahead to the new soccer season with news from around the Roscommon & District Football League. The Roscommon & District Football League returns this weekend, which means a return of People Sport soccer (real football!) coverage and the excitement is building! The transfer window remains open and this week we bring you a rundown of the big moves so far. Two clubs will rejoin the ranks this year with two new clubs making a debut; following successful multieuro takeover bids from local football enthusiasts. Welcome back Cam Celtic and Strokestown United and welcome aboard Hodson Bay Athletic and Ballinagare FC who bring the league up to 32 teams across three divisions. Much like the ‘top four’

cross-channel, there have been big managerial changes in the RDFL with Henry ‘The Chosen One’ Loughnane taking over from the legendary Enda Concannon at Ballinasloe Town. No pressure Henry… Meanwhile, Premier Division new boys, Shiven Rovers, have appointed Michael Collins as their new manager. Rovers have been practicing their new ‘flying column’ formation throughout pre-season. Skyvalley Rovers will have Fintan Moore back in the hot seat this year and have been showing their players the ‘Rocky’ movies in order to increase motivation and commitment. Darragh Concannon has

been spotted in Moore amid speculation he is to undergo a medical. Following interest from several Chinese Superleague teams, Concannon’s agent has concluded drawn-out talks with United after a deal on image rights was agreed. Finally, Ballymoe FC raised the curtain on their new season by kidnapping John Delaney and demanding €10,000 in ransom last weekend. They hope that their impressive new pitch, which was officially opened last weekend, will inspire them to go one better this season and win a trophy. The make-up of the three divisions is as follows. Premier Division: Ahas-

RDFL congratulate Ballymoe FC

Harry Redknapp pictured leaving Hodson Bay Athletic over the summer, following failed contract negotiations.

cragh United, Ballymoe FC, Ballinasloe Town, Ballaghaderreen FC, Brazukas, Castlerea Celtic, Moore United, Shiven Rovers, Skyvalley Rovers and St. John’s Athletic. Division 1: Rahara Rovers, CP Ajax, Ballinasloe Town, Dysart FC, Cloonfad United, Glen Celtic, Kilkerrin United, Lough Harps, Loughglynn United and

MD Town. Division 2: Ballinagare FC, Cam Celtic, Castlerea Celtic, Cloonfad United, Hodson Bay Athletic FC, MD Town, Moore United, Moylough 79, Roscommon United, Shiven Rovers, Skyvalley Rover and Strokestown United. *Thanks to Vincent Brooks as always for his assistance

The Roscommon and District League would like to extend their congratulations to Ballymoe FC on the opening of a new all-weather pitch at Ballymoe over the weekend. This fabulous playing pitch is as good as any in the country. Chairman Padraic Grogan, Secretary Kathleen Hegarty, and the wonderful committee and local people deserve tremendous credit for the years of hard work that went into the whole project. Thanks also to everyone involved in the opening for all the effort they put in on the day. Unfortunately, FAI Chief Executive John Delaney couldn’t made it on the day but showed his great support for the game at grassroots level by coming down on Sunday to meet everyone.

Soccer Fixtures Friday, September 2nd RDFL Premier Division (8 pm) Ballinasloe Town v Ballaghaderreen FC. C. Fitzgibbon Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (8 pm) Cloonfad United v MD Town. D. Dully

Saturday, September 3rd RDFL Premier Division (7.45 pm) Shiven Rovers v Skyvalley Rovers. E. Deering Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 (7.45 pm) Castlerea Celtic B v Cloonfad United. M. Devlin Moore United B v Moylough ’79. G. Kelly

Sunday, September 4th RDFL Premier Division (11 am, unless stated) Ahascragh United v Moore United. M. Hatchett Brazukas v Castlerea Celtic. J. McLoughlin St. John’s Athletic v Ballymoe FC. 2 pm. S. O’Brien Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (2 pm, unless stated) CP Ajax v Lough Harps. 11 am. R. Stokes Rahara Rovers v Glen Celtic. A. Conclaves Loughglynn United v Dysart FC. K. Reynolds Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 (2 pm) Ballinagare FC v Cam Celtic. E. Collins Hodson Bay Athletic v MD Town B. A. Deering Roscommon United v Shiven Rovers B. G. Campbell Skyvalley Rovers B v Strokestown United. P. Harkins Double winners Castlerea Celtic will be the team to beat in the RDFL Premier Division this season. Pic: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

Dan’s SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER

Old rivals breathe new life into championship THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner Love him or hate him, Joe Brolly provides excellent analysis. In the aftermath of the epic Dublin Kerry All-Ireland semi-final on Sunday, Brolly hit the nail on the head. While Pat Spillane and Ciarán Whelan were busy picking Stephen Cluxton’s kick-outs apart, Joe identified what makes Dublin so formidable. Quite simply: they love to play football. In the closing stages, the anti-Dubs’ favourite villian, Diarmuid Connolly, made one more lung-busting run to support an attack. Most players would have taken a hop and turned back towards support. Connolly, who had struck a couple of

poor efforts earlier in the half, had other ideas and cut across the ball with the inside of his left foot. It split the posts and Connolly clenched his fists in delight and clinched another AllIreland final appearance for his team. Joe Brolly’s post-match observations added to something a Roscommon senior player told me recently. The Rossie was in Dublin on teaching practice and current members of the Dublin panel, David Byrne and Paul Mannion were in his class. The way he tells it, those students asked if they could do homework through lunch in order to be freed up to train or play matches in the afternoon. They clearly valued practice time over free time and that only comes from a genuine passion for the game. There was a moment during Sunday’s game when the camera closed

in on Diarmuid Connolly highlighting his sheer size and physique. Again, love him or hate him; he’s an amateur, but looks like a guy who spends every waking hour focussed on his sport. The Dubs and The Kingdom rescued the game of football on Sunday afternoon from another underwhelming year. They went toe to toe and absolutely battered each other throughout a rip-roaring game. Both counties played football in an attractive, attacking manner and last weekend’s fare was the real Dublin v Kerry, showing that last year’s final was merely an off-day for both teams. The dust has now settled and Mayo know that not only will they face a team of style at Croke Park in a couple of weeks, but a team of genuine, steely substance.

Sporting week on Tweet Street Paul McGrath @Paulmcgrath5 There won’t be a Cow milked in Crumlin for a week, I better drop me Ma up for some milk #upthedubs (The Irish football legend highlights agricultural worries in the capital following the semi-final win over Kerry.)

Shane Curran @shanetcurran I’ll predict 2 goals for Dub b4 HT #riot (Mystic cake was almost right…almost.)

Paddy Power @paddypower Jack Wilshere being allowed to leave Arsenal on loan, with medical science being the front-runner to sign him. (The sometimes footballer gives the Arsenal medical staff a wellearned rest.)

In the sporting diary .... Soccer season kicks off! This weekend will see the Roscommon & District League back in action with a full list of fixtures across three divisions. Previewed elsewhere in this week’s People Spot…

One more night in Hollywood… Dublin and Kerry contested the game of the championship last Sunday, with the Dubs eventually coming out on top. Pic: Dublin Live

The Hollywood Superleague league stages will finish this Friday in The Hollywood Bar with darts taking place from 9 pm.

Golf

President’s Prize in Athlone

Dardis drives home in VW Open

This weekend will see Athlone Golf Club playing host to Michael Cleary’s President’s Prize. Michael will be forgiven for having one eye on the television, however, as his native Tipperary will be competing another important prize.

We start our whirlwind golf tour of Roscommon in Strokestown where the Volkswagen Open was a

great success. Colm Dardis won it ahead of Michael Fallon Jr. with Noel Kennedy in third place. The men’s

John Keane (J. Keane & Sons, Roscommon) presents winner Marian Power with her prize following the Volkswagen Open at Strokestown Golf Club last week. Also in the photo is lady captain Brid Connellan.

longest drive was won by Thomas Corcoran. Best of the ladies was Marion Power, with Sinéad

Devine in second and Zoey McDermott in third. Zoey won the longest drive competition while nearest

Winners of the Lynch Flooring sponsored competition at Roscommon Golf Club. Front (L-r): Dean Carr (representing Lynch Flooring); Lady Captain, Paula Keane; Jackie McCormack representing winner James Quigley; President Kevin Henry. Back: Vice Captain, Tom Costello; Alan Connaughton representing Jack McGahan, Junior prize; Tom Judge, runner-up.

to the pin was Margaret O’Sullivan. Next to Castlerea, where club president Tommie Dolan hosted his competitions last week. Laura Griffith was best of the ladies with Mamie Creaton in second. The men’s competition was won by Liam Walshe with Liam O’Connell in second. In Carrick-on-Shannon, Phil McWeeney won the PGA Tankard qualifier ahead of Elizabeth Muldowney. Meanwhile, the McGarry Trophy was taken home by Keith Hogg. Finally to Athlone, where Yvonne Walsh won the ladies’ competition last Tuesday with 34 points ahead of Kay Delaney on 32. This weekend Tipperary native, Michael Cleary, will host his president’s prize so we hear there’s at least one ticket for Croke Park going spare.

Darts

Kilroe back to his best! Mick Kilroe was back to winning ways last Friday night in The Hollywood Bar Superleague. The Charlie’s Bar player was in fine form as he stormed his way to the final with wins over Mick Egan (3-2) and JP Feeney (3-2) in the knock-out stages. Kilroe came up against Hollywood star, Ciaran Hickey, who had beaten Wayne Harries and Paul Carton on his way to the final. He proved to be no match for Kilroe, however, who dominated on the night to win 3-0. The Hollywood Superleague’s league stages will conclude this coming Friday night with the draw to take place at 8.45 pm and first darts at 9 pm. With the league completed the Finals night for both the Cup and Shield Competition will then take place on Friday, 9th September. Contact David on 086-0823180 for more details Finally for this week, well done to Gary and Thomas Concannon who made it to the quarter-finals of the pairs event of the INDO Masters this past weekend before narrowly losing out to eventual winners Michael Meaney (Wexford) and Stephen Lennon (Kilkenny).

Handball

Creaton suffers ﬁnal heartbreak Lisacul’s Denis Creaton came up short in his bid to win the 60x30 Junior Singles Connacht title against Galway’s Kevin Craddock last Sunday. Craddock is a very experienced campaigner at this level and dominated their match in the lowroofed Castlebar court. Unable to take the strong Headford man out of the middle of the court, Denis had to play a defensive game and was beaten 21-11, 21-12. St. Coman’s Aoife McDonagh was decisively beaten in her Ladies Junior ‘B’ Singles Connacht

Final by Galway’s Roisin Ni Chonghaile. While both players would be more comfortable in a 40x20 court, the Moycullen girl adapted far better to take their match 21-0, 21-14. In the Loughmacrory (Co. Tyrone) Onewall tournament, Fionn Cusack went all the way to the final of the Boys 15 & Under before going down 16-17 to Inis Mór’s Jason O’Toole. Cusack has had an impressive year in Onewall, winning the National ‘B’ title and will look to continue his rich vein of form in the upcoming

60x30 championships. Four 60x30 Connacht Finals were held in St. Coman’s last weekend. Sligo’s Francie McCann had an easy win over Mayo’s Michael Heraty in the Emerald Masters grade. Mayo’s Kevin Geraghty beat Sligo’s Michael McMorrow in Diamond Masters. Mayo’s former three-time Minor champion Niall Joyce comfortably beat Galway’s Conor Noone in their U21 final and Mayo’s Paul Gavin won his Golden Masters ‘B’ encounter with Galway’s Brendan McNeela.

Pictured at last week’s Hollywood Bar Superleague was winner, Mick Kilroe, with runner-up, Ciaran Hickey.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

SportsPeople

Top of the table Gaels breeze through Hodson Bay Roscommon SFC (Group B) WESTERN GAELS

0-20

MICHAEL GLAVEY’S This was an easy win for Western Gaels but they will have to plan without Donal

2-5 Ward for the quarter-final clash against Roscommon Gaels after he received a

straight red card late in the game. The Gaels had more firepower up front and they led by 0-10 to 1-2 at halftime. Andy Glennon scored the Glavey’s goal but they could not match the power of Ciaran Cafferky, Cathal Cregg, Kevin Higgins, Ni-

all Murray and James McDonnell. Stephen Comer scored Glavey’s second goal at the end of the third quarter but the Gaels were always in control and they breezed into the play-offs at the top of the Group B table.

Western Gaels: P Cummins; D McGarry, M Higgins, B Cafferky; S McDermott, D Ward, C Cafferky (0-3); N Murray, B Creighton; K Higgins (0-4), N Higgins (0-3), J McDonnell (0-2); T Gill (0-2), D Moran (02), C Cregg (0-2). Subs; F

Cregg (0-1) for N Higgins, E Ryan (0-1) for McGarry, S Ryan for Gill, T Mahon for Murray. Michael Glavey’s: D O’Malley; S Markham, L Cregg, S O’Malley; J Brennan, C Hussey (0-2) D Freyne; J Finan C Fitz-

maurice; S Burke (0-1), G Patterson, S Comer (1-2); S Fagan, A Glennon (1-0), L McDermott. Subs: N Morris for Markham, C Ruane for Fagan, P Morris for Freyne, R Murphy for McDermott. Referee: Marty Parker.

Brigid’s ﬁre title warning ahead of semis Hodson Bay Roscommon SFC (Group A) ST. BRIGID’S

4-16

CASTLEREA ST. KEVIN’S This was a mismatch at Strokestown as St. Brigid’s eased into the semi-finals at the expense of a totally outclassed Castlerea side. Brigid’s were in total control all through and by halftime they led by 2-9 to 0-3 with Brian Stack and Ian Kilbride scoring early goals to set them on their way. The one-way traffic continued in the second half and Darragh Donnelly added a third Brigid’s goal. Indeed, Frankie Dolan marked his return to action as a sub with three points, and even full-back, Niall McInerney, got in on the act with a goal in the last few minutes. Brigid’s will now await St. Faithleach’s or Boyle in their semi-final and they seem to be coming into form at just the right time. St. Brigid’s: S Mannion; D Sheehy (0-1), N McInerney (1-0), D Donnelly (1-0); E Sheehy (0-2), N Grehan, R Stack; G Dolan, I Kilbride (1-1); B Stack (1-1), D Dolan (0-1), D Cunniffe (0-1); S Kilbride (0-2), K Mannion (0-1), C McHugh (01). Subs: J McDonnell for McHugh, F Dolan (0-3) for D Dolan, J Gallagher (0-1) for Grehan, A Gleeson (01) for Cunniffe, M Daly for G Dolan, J Cunningham for Mannion. Castlerea St. Kevin’s:

Full stretch! Eoin Sheehy and Fintan Kelly battle for possession. Picture: Andrew Fox

0-6

G Claffey; D Quinn, N Collins, D Creighton; C Dineen, H Rooney (0-1), J Kenny; F Kelly, R Raftery; S Ryan, O O’Connell, R Curran; C Dineen (0-2), G Heneghan (0-3), C Casey. Subs: E Kenny for Curran, B McGovern for Kenny, E Creighton for Collins, P O’Connor for O Connell, L O’Connell for Ryan. Referee: Michael Brehony. Out in front! (Right) Senan Kilbride gathers possession ahead of David Quinn. Picture: Andrew Fox (Below) David Cunniffe manages to stay on his feet after receiving a shoulder challenge from Niall Collins. Picture: Andrew Fox

Cregg’s shot heard around the county Hodson Bay Roscommon SFC (Group B) ELPHIN

0-16

ST. CROAN’S

2-10

Elphin’s late comeback at Loughglynn had many consequences. The draw saved them from a relegation

play-off but it also meant that St. Faithleach’s edged out Strokestown for a playoff place. Not only that but

the draw saw Croan’s heading for a relegation play-off with Michael Glavey’s. Croan’s were the better side in the first half and aided by goals from Ross Timothy and Keith Muldoon, they led at half-time by 2-5 to Elphin’s 0-7. Croan’s continued to lead

in the third quarter with Kevin Smyth on target with two frees. Croan’s led by four with six minutes to go but Elphin made a late surge. Fintan Cregg scored two frees, and a point from Nessan Lehihan reduced the margin to one and then in injury-time the excellent

Fintan Cregg scored the equaliser. Now St. Croan’s will now have to battle it out with Michael Glavey’s to see who will make the drop to intermediate football for 2017. Elphin: C Lenehan; N Lenehan (0-1), P O’Connor, J Carney; D Hynes, J

Sweeney, S Beirne; Fintan Cregg (0-7), S Killoran; C Sweeney, J Collins (0-5), M McCaffrey; G Cregg (0-1), F Cregg (0-2), A Murray. Subs: M Glancy for Murray, A Murray for McCaffrey. St. Croan’s: V Egan; T Mockler, G Grogan, R

Keenan; R Timothy (1-0), K Keenan, K Muldoon (1-1); J Connaughton (0-2), G Connaughton; M Connaughton, P Leech, A Brogan (0-3); P Hynes, M Holland (0-1), K Smyth (0-3). Subs: C Connelly for Muldoon, S Conway for Mockler. Referee: Aaron Clogher.

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Game for the ages as Dubs refuse to wither

When I was lucky enough to have been in Croke Park for the All-Ireland semi-final between Dublin and Kerry in 2013, I was of the opinion that I would never see as good a game of football as that again. Thankfully, I was wrong because last Sunday’s game between the two same counties was just as good, if not better. I don’t know why it is that Dublin and Kerry consistently produce top class games, maybe it’s because they are the only two counties who can actually play the game the way it should be played. I thought that Dublin deserved to win the game overall. I know that the hit on Peter Crowley toward the end of the game was a foul and a Kerry point would have levelled the scores, but it would be wrong if that incident were to cloud the overall picture. I thought that referee David Gough had a superb game and his performance contributed to a game that will be talked about for years to come. The standard of play from

both sides; the big physical hits (there wasn’t one dirty belt) the fitness levels, the standard of the scores, and the excitement which never dropped was just some of what we saw on Sunday. The Dubs won because they could respond every time that Kerry had them on the ropes and that’s the sign of a really great team. Stephen Cluxton, who is probably the most important player on the Dublin team almost cost his team the game. His poor kickouts led to 2-2 at the end of the first half, and at halftime it was hard to believe that Kerry were five points ahead on the balance of play. But Dublin put their heads down and they had a few unlikely heroes. I had often thought that Dean Rock was not good enough for that Dublin forward line. How wrong I was. He was brilliant from play as well as the placed ball. Twelve points in a game like this was some contribution. He is the best place-kicker in the game now by a country mile. Then there is Kevin

McManamon. What a player he has been for Dublin over the years. He was fantastic last Sunday. Remember too that four of the Dublin forwards including Bernard Brogan and Ciaran Kilkenny did not play well. For Kerry, I just couldn’t believe my eyes when they took off Paul Geaney, who was Kerry’s best player by a mile - and had scored 14 up to that point - and he looked dangerous every time he got the ball. The fact that he was replaced by Mark Ó Sé was even more puzzling. It was just a wonderful game of football and not a sign of a blanket defence or a laptop anywhere. We had long and accurate foot passing, high fielding, hard hitting and super scores. It was a privilege to sit down and watch it. When the game was over last Sunday I watched Colm Cooper closely. With tears in his eyes he slowly made his way into the tunnel. It was probably his last appearance at Croke Park. He is the best Gaelic football forward

Keano bids farewell

Dublin fans will be hoping Stephen Cluxton will keep his composure against Mayo in the All-Ireland Final following an error against Kerry last Sunday.

that I have ever seen. If he does retire he has given us some pleasure over the years. I presume that Bryan Sheehan, Kieran Donaghy, Marc Ó Sé, Aidan O’Mahony and Donnacha Walsh will also be considering their futures too. It’s rebuilding time in Ker-

ry and Eamon Fitzmaurice may well step aside too. But I wouldn’t be shedding too many tears for The Kingdom. You only have to take a look at their minor team who eviscerated Kildare last Sunday and look oddson to win their third U-18 title in a row this year. They

Cork rower on top of the world You have to hand it to Paul O’Donovan. Not content with a silver medal in Rio with his brother, he dashed back to Rotterdam and he once again ‘pulled like a dog’ to take gold in the single sculls on Saturday in the world championships. It’s obvious that these guys are serious athletes and to have won these two major medals in the space of two weeks is a serious achievement. Do I hear the words “Paul O’Donovan Irish Sportstar of the Year for 2016” ringing in my ears?

Elphin had won, and it was close. At least five minutes passed by as we waited for the final whistle to blow. People were hanging on every word that was said. Who’s winning? How long is left? A free for whom? Eventually it did blow, it was a draw, and the St. Faithleach’s contingent cheered and celebrated. They were in the quarterfinals and Strokestown were out.

won’t be down for long. So what about the final? We will have plenty of time to chat about that before the big day, but Mayo will have to produce a performance that we have never seen from them in six years at the top if they want to have any chance.

This week will see Robbie Keane retire after a sensational career in the green jersey of Ireland. To have scored 67 international goals is some feat and it will stand as a record long after we are all dead and gone. In the words of Eamon Dunphy, ‘Robbie Keane was a good player but he was never a great player’. He scored goals for many clubs over his career but he was never in the same league as the likes of Shearer, Lineker, Henry, Van Nistelrooy etc. But he gave Ireland some great service over the years and they will have a job to replace him. I’m sure he will be the Ireland manager one day if he shows any interest in the job in the future.

CHAMPIONSHIP

Crystal Ball…

Paul O’Donovan took home a gold medal from the World Rowing Championships in Rotterdam last week.

All-Ireland SHC Final Kilkenny v Tipperary on Sunday in Croke Park at 3.30 pm

Championship drama across the county At the end of the game between Strokestown and St. Faithleach’s in Kilglass last Sunday a couple of hundred people huddled around the press area where county secretary Brian Carroll was on his mobile phone talking to someone who was at the Elphin v St. Croan’s game in Loughglynn. St. Faithleach’s had just beaten Strokestown but they needed to know if

Robbie Keane has announced his retirement from international football.

There was similar excitement and tension in Kilbride the previous evening as Roscommon Gaels and Pádraig Pearses battled it out, but the biggest drama of all was unfolding in Ballintubber as Boyle were in the process of dumping champions Clann na nGael out of the championship. There was more drama in the intermediate championship. You can criticise this

new format all you like but it has produced huge tension and excitement over the past few weeks. I don’t ever remember scenes like those we saw last weekend in the club championship and it is great to see it too. In the senior championship, St. Brigid’s look the team to beat but all credit to Boyle who have come from nowhere to qualify for the quarter-finals and in their last two games

they have scored 3-11 and 4-13 which is serious form. Pearses look a good side too and with Ronan Daly set to return they are also in with a great chance again this year. Fuerty are also blazing a trail in the intermediate championship and they have deservedly gone to the top of the betting lists to land that title this year. Let’s hope the excitement continues.

The two oldest rivals in hurling come face to face in a pairing that many were predicting from early in the year. Tipperary are the fancy of many but looking at the two semi-finals; the matches between Waterford and Kilkenny were far more physical and intense than the Tipperary v Galway game. Tipp have the better all-round team and have a strong bench but who would bet against Kilkenny in a final? We could be in for another epic here although the loss of Michael Fennelly to Kilkenny will be huge. I have a sneaking feeling that Tipp will edge it. Prediction: Tipperary

All-Ireland MHC Final Tipperary v Limerick on Sunday in Croke Park at 1.15 pm Prediction: Tipperary

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

SportsPeople Intermediate Round-up

Fuerty power into the semi-ﬁnals Mulryan Construction Roscommon IFC

Group A Fuerty 2-17 St. Dominic’s 1-8

Fuerty’s great form at the top of Group A continued when outclassed St. Dominic’s at Kiltoom on Sunday evening. Fuerty power into the semi-finals now, while St. Dominic’s are out of contention for a play-off place. Dominic’s were the better side early on and actually led 0-4 to 0-1. However, once Fuerty got a foothold in the game they soon levelled the scores and powered ahead. Fuerty led by 0-7 to 0-6 at the break. Dominic’s grabbed a tonic goal at the start of the second half when Darren Donnelly scrambled the ball to the Fuerty net. But that goal seemed to awaken Fuerty and with Gearóid Ennis in deadly accurate form from the placed ball and from play, they played some mighty football in the second half. In the 40th minute, Thomas Clayton scored a Fuerty goal and a couple of points stretched their lead to three. Then with 17 minutes to go Fuerty were awarded a penalty and Gearóid Ennis made no mistake to make it 2-10

to 1-7. Dominic’s managed only one further point in the game as Fuerty, who lined out without Niall Kilroy, pulled away with a succession of fine points. Scorers - Fuerty: Gearóid Ennis (1-8), A Lyons (0-3), T Clayton (1-0), N Keenan (0-2), P Kellehan, B Mullen, D Mullen and C Leahy (0-1) each. St. Dominic’s: C Fallon (0-4), D Donnelly (1-0), U Kelly, S Farrell and E McCormack (0-1) each.

Oran 0-15 Kilbride 0-10

Oran squeezed into the quarter-finals with a nervous enough win against Kilbride at Ballyforan. Kilbride had to line out without injured talisman Conor Devaney but they played well in the first half and were always in contention and at half-time there was just a point in it as Kilbride led by 0-9 to 0-8. But Oran made a decisive burst after the break with Mikey Gunning, Thomas Fetherston, Adrian Cassidy, Mark Gunning and Paul Kenny to the fore and by the end of the third quarter they led by three points. Kilbride, for whom Thomas O’Grady was outstanding, reduced the gap to two late on but Mikey

Gunning’s late free steadied the Oran ship. Scorers – Oran: Mikey Gunning (0-5), A Cassidy (0-3), P Kenny, J Earley, Mark Gunning (0-2) each, R Earley (0-1). Kilbride: T O’Grady (0-7), D Clabby (0-2), C O’Neill, H Walsh and C Shanagher (0-1) each.

Tulsk 2-8 Kilmore 1-11

Doughty championship battlers Kilmore reached the quarter-finals as a result of this hard-earned draw against a Tulsk side who will now contest the IFC semi-finals. Tulsk can thank their midfielder Kieran Donoghue, who scored two late points to secure a share of the spoils against a resilient Kilmore in an entertaining game played at Elphin. Tulsk scored an early goal from David Carleton, but aided by a John Donohoe goal, Kilmore led 1-5 to 1-1 at the break. Tulsk were the better side on the resumption and a string of fine points saw the margin down to one and when Tadgh O’Rourke scored their second goal in the 43rd minute they were ahead. But a late surge from Kil-

more looked to have won it when Derek Connellan (2) and John Donohoe pointed to leave them two ahead. But Donoghue saved the day with those two late efforts for Tulsk. Scorers - Tulsk: D Carleton (1-1), T O’Rourke (1-0), K Donoghue, and J Conlon (0-2) each, P Scott, C Burns, C O’Rourke (0-1) each. Kilmore: D Connellan (0-6), J Donohue (1-1), J Garvey, D Tiernan, D Feely and P Garvey (0-1) each.

Group B St. Aidan’s 1-17 Shannon Gaels 1-13

St. Aidan’s’ improved form continued at Rockfield with this win and they now have a great chance of a place in the quarter-finals. Aidan’s led by 1-8 to 0-6 at halftime with the outstanding Johnny Coyne grabbing the Aidan’s goal after only four minutes. Shannon Gaels scored a fine goal from Conor Layden in the 44th minute which reduced the margin to two, but Aidan’s were always able to keep their noses in front and they held out for a deserved win. Scorers – St. Aidan’s: J Coyne (1-7), P Neary (0-5), K Waldron (0-2),

Players from St. Dominic’s and Fuerty battle for a breaking ball. Picture: Andrew Fox

C Daly, J Conroy and E Fallon (0-1) each. Shannon Gaels: C Layden (1-4), S Layden (0-3), C Harmon and F Sweeney (0-2) each, N Leyden and S O’Dowd (0-1) each.

St. Michael’s 5-14 Clann na nGael 3-12 St. Michael’s produced their best form of the year in this high-scoring game at Ballintubber. Ronan Cox and Alan O’Hara were the

Michael’s heroes with Cox scoring 3-5 while former Roscommon minor star O’Hara scored 0-6. The other Michael’s goals came from Darren Conlon and Andrew Moran. Ciaran Reilly was prominent for Clann scoring 0-6 from play and the Clann goals came from Ian Naughton and two from sub Gary Mannion. The half-time score was St. Michael’s 2-5 Clann 1-7. Scorers – St. Michael’s: R

BREAKING BALL Blanket defence!

Cox (3-5), A O’ Hara (0-6), D Conlon and A Moran (1-0) each, N Conlon (0-2), S Gillespie (0-1). Clann na nGael: C Reilly (0-6), G Mannion (2-0), C Lennon (0-4), I Naughton (1-0), M Shine and D Egan (0-1) each. Note: The game between Éire Óg and St. Barry’s was postponed because of a bereavement in the St. Barry’s club area. That game will be played this weekend.

Roscommon People’s

SFC Team of the Weekend 1. Tadgh Lowe 2. Darragh Sheehy 3. Niall McInerney 4. Anthony Butler 5. Keith Muldoon 6. Seanie Purcell 7. David O’Gara 8. Fintan Cregg 9. Senan O’Grady 10. Enda Smith 11. Ciaráin Murtagh 12. Niall Higgins 13. Brian Stack 14. Hubert Darcy 15. Senan Kilbride

Hot Shots John Nolan, Roscommon Gaels, goes to ground under the challenge of Paul Kelly of Pádraig Pearses. Picture: Andrew Fox

Talking Points • Pádraig Pearses topped Group A in the SFC and are into the semi-finals alongside St. Brigid’s. Clann na nGael were sensationally knocked out by a Boyle side who have scored 7-27 in their last two championship games. • St. Faithleach’s win against

Strokestown turned the Group B table upside down with hotly-fancied Strokestown missing out. • Two Roscommon Gaels subs (Brian Cleary and Johnnie Conteh) were both black carded within five minutes of coming on the field against Pádraig Pearses in a tension filled game at Kilbride.

• The betting on the Roscommon SFC is now: St. Brigid’s 1/1, Pádraig Pearses 9/4. Roscommon Gaels 6/1, Western Gaels 9/1, Boyle 14/1, St. Faithleach’s 14/1. • Fuerty are blazing a trail in the IFC and are now the title favourites after another impressive display against St. Dominic’s last weekend.

Tulsk are second favourites to land the IFC title. • Highest scoring game of the weekend was in Ballintubber where St. Michael’s and Clann na nGael shared eight goals and twenty-six points as Michael’s won by eight points. Ronan Cox weighed in with an impressive 3-5 for Michael’s.

Enda Smith 2-3 Donie Shine 0-9 Fintan Cregg 0-7

Young Guns Cian McKeon (Boyle) Richard Hughes (Roscommon Gaels) Brian Stack (St. Brigid’s)

SportsPeople

Roscommon People Friday 02 September 2016

INSIDE: Full round-up of last weekend’s SFC and IFC action…

Campbell steps down as hurling manager < DAN DOONER

Justin Campbell has announced his intention to step down as manager of the Roscommon senior hurling team. The decision came earlier this week but Campbell had indicated that he was considering leaving the role as far back as last October. Roscommon hurling chairman, Christy McDermott, stated on Tuesday: “Justin Campbell informed me last night of his intention to stand down as manager of the Roscommon senior hurling team. This is very disappointing news but we must respect his decision. We are all aware of Justin’s involvements outside of the playing of our games. He is very busy as an addiction counsellor and feels that he can’t manage the two jobs at the moment. It is a big worry that his addiction work is so busy and I suppose, without being selfish, we have to compliment Justin on his dedication to this work which helps his clients and their families. “When we reviewed work for 2016 last October, Justin indicated that it might be his last year for that reason and requested that he be relieved of preparing the county U-21 team in 2016. “Roscommon hurling has enjoyed three great years under the leadership of Justin. In 2014, we reached the Nicky Rackard Cup final. 2015 saw us win the Nicky Rackard Cup and narrowly miss out on promotion from Division 3A of the Allianz National League. “The goals for 2016 were achieved in the team was promoted to Division 2B of the league and easily held onto our status in the Christy Ring Cup. “Justin has been a pleasure to work with and put all of his energy into Roscommon hurling and I would like to thank his backroom team and players for the dedication they have given Justin. Finally, thanks to Justin, his wife and their two young children.” Campbell has guided the Roscommon hurlers through a very successful three-year period and raised the profile of Roscommon hurling across the county and beyond. The hurling board will now face the tough task of finding a worthy successor.

The Roscommon senior hurlers arrive back in Roscommon town with the Nicky Rackard Cup in 2015. Pic: Andrew Fox

Joey, Justin and Katie Campbell celebrate following the Nicky Rackard Cup win over Armagh in 2015. Picture: Andrew Fox

Justin Campbell celebrates a Michael Kelly goal during the Nicky Rackard Cup Final win over Armagh in 2015.

Oran out to prevent semi shock! < SEAMUS DUKE

Kepak Roscommon SHC Semi-Final Roscommon Gaels v Oran on Saturday in Athleague at 6.30 pm Roscommon Gaels are the surprise semifinalists and Oran will fancy their chances of making it to another final. The Gaels are not without a chance though and they have a number of fine players in their ranks not least Cillian Egan, Gary Waldron, Paul Lennon, Damien Healy Eoin Browne, Niall Tannion

and Oisin Hession. Oran also have plenty of quality: Mike Dwyer, Kevin Crehan, Thomas Fetherston, Hugh Rooney, the Kennys and Jerry Fallon are all very experienced players and Fallon’s accuracy from the placed ball may well prove decisive. There may not be much in it but Oran look the better bet. Prediction: Oran Kepak Roscommon SHC Play-Off Athleague v Pádraig Pearses on Saturday in Athleague at 5 pm

The winners here will face the champions Four Roads in the semi-final. Pearses will be the favourites with the Sweeneys, Tomas Seale, Shane Naughton and young guns like Daniel Glynn and others making up a strong looking Pearses side. Athleague have not played well this year and they will be looking to the likes of Gary Fallon, Alan Moore and Pat Nolan to provide inspiration but they will need a big performance to have a chance here. Pearses look to have too much up front. Prediction: Pádraig Pearses

GAA Results Friday, August 26th Warm & Cosy Homes Junior A Football Championship (Section B) Western-Gaels 1-13 Castlerea St. Kevin’s 1-12 Pádraig Pearses 2-11 Strokestown 2-8 Junior B Football Championship (Section A) Clann na nGael 2-17 Oran 0-10 Saturday, August 27th Adult Football League Division 3 (Tansey Cup) Kilglass Gaels 1-14 Ballinameen 0-11 St. Aidan’s 1-17 Shannon Gaels 1-13 Hodson Bay Hotel Senior Football Championship (Group A) St. Brigid’s 4-16 Castlerea St. Kevin’s 0-6 Boyle 4-13 Clann na nGael 2-14 Pádraig Pearses 1-11 Roscommon Gaels 1-11 Mulryan Construction Intermediate Football Championship – (Section B) St. Aidan’s 1-17 Shannon Gaels 1-13 St. Michael’s 5-14 Clann na nGael 3-12 Warm & Cosy Homes Junior A Football Championship (Section A) Kilglass Gaels 1-14 Ballinameen 0-11 St. Brigid’s 2-11 St. Ronan’s 0-10 Creggs 1-14 St. Dominic’s 0-5 Sunday, August 28th Hodson Bay Hotel Senior Football Championship (Group B) Western-Gaels 0-20 Michael Glavey’s 2-6 St. Croan’s 0-16 Elphin 2-10 St. Faithleach’s 2-9 Strokestown 0-10 Mulryan Construction Intermediate Football Championship (Section A) Oran 0-15 Kilbride 0-12 Kilmore 1-11 Tulsk Lord Edwards 2-8 Fuerty 2-17 St. Dominic’s 1-8

GAA Fixtures Saturday, September 3rd Adult Football League Division 3 (Tansey Cup) (6.30 pm) At Kilglass: Kilglass Gaels v St. Michael’s At Orchard Park: Elphin v Creggs At Davonna Park: Ballinameen v Western-Gaels Mulryan Construction Intermediate Football Championship (Section B) At Tulsk: St. Barry’s v Éire Óg. 5 pm Kepak Senior Hurling Championship Play-off At Athleague: Athleague v Pádraig Pearses. 5 pm Kepak Senior Hurling Championship Semi-Final At Athleague: Roscommon Gaels v Oran. 6.30 pm Sunday, September 4th Adult Football League Division 1 (O’Rourke Cup) (12 pm) At Abbey Park: Boyle v Western-Gaels At Kiltoom: St. Brigid’s v Roscommon Gaels At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v Clann na nGael At Kilmore: Kilmore v Oran At Strokestown: Strokestown v Elphin Adult Football League Division 2 (O’Gara Cup) (12 pm) At Michael Glavey’s: Michael Glavey’s v St Croan’s At Kilbride: Kilbride v St. Faithleach’s At Tulsk: Tulsk Lord Edwards v Castlerea St. Kevin’s

Underage Fixtures Thursday, September 1st KDM Construction Minor Championship Division 1 (7 pm) At Tulsk: Tulsk Lord Edwards v Clann na nGael At Strokestown: Strokestown v Pádraig Pearses At St. Dominic’s: St. Dominic’s v St. Brigid’s Keen Print Minor Championship Division 2 (7 pm) At Mulhern Park: St. Ciaran’s v Elphin-Ballinameen At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v Oran At Ballyleague: St. Faithleach’s v Éire Óg Mahon & Sweeney Solicitors Minor Championship Division 3 (7 pm) At Kilmore: Kilmore/Shannon Gaels v Western-Gaels At Abbey Park: Boyle v St. Ronan’s Campion Insurance Minor Championship Division 4 (7 pm) At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v Kilbride FRS Network U-14 Championship Division 1 Knock-out At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Boyle v Pádraig Pearses. 7 pm East Brothers U-14 Championship Division 2 At Orchard Park: Elphin-Ballinameen v Strokestown. 7 pm County Photos U-14 Championship Division 4 At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Boyle v Pádraig Pearses. 8.15 pm Friday, September 2nd Mahon & Sweeney Solicitors Minor Championship Division 3 At Michael Glavey’s: Michael Glavey’s v Castlerea St. Kevin’s. 7 pm Campion Insurance Minor Championship Division 4 At Enfield: St. Croan’s v Kilbride. 7 pm U-12 Summer League Division 5 Knock-out At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v St. Brigid’s. 7 pm Abbeyview Holiday Rentals U-14 Championship Division 3 At Ballyleague: St. Faithleach’s v Kilglass Gaels/St. Barry’s. 7 pm Saturday, September 3rd U-12 Summer League Division 1 Knock-out (12 pm) At Abbey Park: Boyle v Clann na nGael At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v St. Brigid’s U-12 Summer League Division 2 Knock-out (12 pm) At Orchard Park: Elphin-Ballinameen v Oran At Mulhern Park: St. Ciaran’s v St. Dominic’s U-12 Summer League Division 3 Knock-out (12 pm) At Ballyleague: St. Faithleach’s v Castlerea St. Kevin’s U-12 Summer League Division 4 Knock-out At Kilmore: Kilmore v Clann na nGael. 3 pm At Enfield: St. Croan’s v St. Aidan’s. 12 pm Gannon’s Poultry U-16 Championship Division 2 (8 pm) At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v St. Aidan’s Monday, September 5th U-12 Summer League Division 6 Knock-out At Western-Gaels: Western-Gaels v Elphin-Ballinameen. 7 pm East Brothers U-14 Championship Division 2 At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v St. Michael’s. 7 pm