2016 12 09

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

FR

BREAKING NEWS ....

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

Congratulations to Boyle on winning the Bank of Ireland Most Enterprising Town (in County Roscommon) title on Wednesday night.

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

Tel. (090) 66 34633 Fax: (090) 66 34303 09 December 2016

The Local Paper

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and every good wish for the New Year

VOLUME: 506

Tommie KElly Electrical

IN THIS WEEK’S ISSUE

Athleague, Roscommon – 090 6663385 ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

BRENDAN’S VOYAGE

NOW ONLY

Nilox € Doc Hoverboards

379

We chat with Shannonside star Brendan SEE PAGE 61

(in a range of colours)

TAKEN DEPOSITS TMAS IS R FOR CH

NEW POLITICS IN FIANNA FAIL? Byrne Carolan Cunningham -----Solicitors----T: 090 64 78433 Please see our Column on Page 2 AND Advert INSIDE

Christmas Trees for sale

We have the political inside stories… SEE PAGE 22

ROSCOMMON TOWN Opposite Casey’s between Feelystone and Castlemine Farm Shop, Circular Road

LOCALLY GROWN, QUALITY CHRISTMAS TREES

LIFE AFTER LAM Denis Buckley on Connacht’s dramatic week SEE PAGE 79

Patrick Long, Ailbhe Brennan and Rory Burke pictured at Beez Kneez in Glenamaddy. See our Glenamaddy local shopping feature on pages 47-49. Picture: Andrew Fox

Lanesboro Road, ROSCOMMON ROSCOMMON

Luke ‘Ming’ FLANAGAN MEP Constituency Office: Priory House, Barrack Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Office hours: 9.30am-4.30pm

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 Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573

See Back Page for this week’s Special Offers

Sizes to suit every home and pocket Available daily from 10am

LANESBORO RD., ROSCOMMON • Softplay •

DELIVERING KEROSENE & HEATING OIL TO YOUR HOME

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

OVER

Selected Fragrances

McGUINNESS Pharmacy 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

Bowling • Diner & Licensed Bar • Movie & Disco Zone • Birthday Parties • Fitness Classes • Indoor Sports • Arcade & Pool tables

Closed Christmas Day & St. Stephen’s Day – Open all other days, 11am - 8pm

Call 090 66 34372 or 086 3861853

CASEY’S ROSCOMMON

Bord na Mona Briquettes

€4 per bale

Paul Lennon BSc (Hons) Chartered Physiotherapist

Galway Road, Roscommon

• • • • •

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

086 3758169 / 090 662 6023 paul@advancedphysiowest.ie www.advancedphysiowest.ie

FRANCES’

Massive

Finishing Touches The Square, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626270 Kid’s Novelty Duvets – perfect for Christmas Large selection of Children’s Duvet Sets and Curtains to match

Flooring/ Furniture

SALE NOW ON ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON

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

CONTINUES

on selected fragrances

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon. Tel. (090) 66 34147

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

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

Give the gift of

FAMILY HISTORY

this Christmas

With a Genealogy Gift Voucher from Irish Clann Connections

Roscommon Lions Club Church Gate collection Roscommon Lions Club is calling on the people of Roscommon to support their Church gate collection this weekend – it’s taking place before all Masses on Saturday-Sunday, 10th and 11th of December. The money collected will go towards

some of the many worthy Roscommon Lions Club causes, which include defibrillator maintenance and training (in four locations in the town), the Winter Briquette project and a holiday break for Roscommon Carers.

Lisnamult Christmas Draw is on Friday night Lisnamult Christmas Draw will be held in the Lisnamult Centre on Friday next, December 9th at 5 pm. There are lots of generous prizes so anyone who has not yet got a ticket please contact Anthony on 087-2125648. Sincere thanks to all our sponsors for your support. Lisnamult Residents Association wishes all its supporters a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year.

Scenes from Convent of Mercy, Roscommon’s Beauty & The Beast REVIEW IN OUR NEXT ISSUE Dolores Gacquin Solicitor Tel: 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie

Contact Eilish at 087 2940544 Email: irishclannconnections@gmail.com

Christmas Gift Idea ....

Gift Vouchers for Driving Lessons

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551

BRINGING MY CHILD ON HOLIDAY I hope to bring my young daughter on holidays to Spain next summer. Our holiday would be for about 2 weeks. I am not married to the father of my daughter and I wonder do I need his permission to bring our daughter out of the country? Please advise me. The answer to your query very much depends on whether the father of your daughter is also her legal guardian. In Ireland, a mother of a child is an automatic guardian of that child. A father who is married to the mother of his child also has automatic guardianship rights in relation to that child. This applies even if the couple married after the birth of the child. However, the same does not apply to a father of a child who is not married to the child’s mother. In order for a father of a child to obtain guardianship rights he must either: 1. Sign a Statutory Declaration for guardianship with the mother of the child. This Statutory Declaration must be witnessed by a solicitor or commissioner for oaths. 2. Seek a Court Order for guardianship. 3. Under the Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 a father to a child may acquire guardianship rights if he lives with the mother of the child for a period of 12 months, 3 months of which are after the birth of the child. This Act does not commence until 18th January 2016 so such guardianship will only be acquired automatically where the parents live together for at least 12 months after the 18th of January 2016. It is important to note that the naming of the father of the child on the birth certificate does not give him automatic guardianship rights. It is an offence to remove a child under 16 years from the State in the following circumstances: 1. Without the consent of each person who is a guardian to the child. 2. In defiance of a Court Order. 3. Where a summons has been served in respect of a court application by a father seeking guardianship. If the father to your child does not have guardianship rights or if he has not initiated the guardianship process through the Courts then you may bring your child on holiday without his consent.

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

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

TIMOTHY’S

Timothy’s Londis, Abbeytown, Roscommon

#rosmas

ABBEYTOWN, ROSCOMMON

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

‘I almost expected to hear Gaybo say we’re banjaxed…’ – The Groves of Kilteevan – is a digitised recording (from 2000) of Enya’s late grandfather, Paddy. Both songs are captivating. A large number of people were involved in producing the CD and they are all to be congratulated on doing a very professional job. The CD – well, if there are any left after the very successful and well attended launch – is on sale now, with proceeds to Kilteevan Community Development Group. A purchase is recommended! As for Sr. Kathleen, her creative output continues. When it comes to her love for Kilteevan, she has always worn her heart on her sleeve. Now you could say she is wearing her heart on her CD sleeve.

Thursday

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

For all your Christmas Gifts ... Open Sundays until Christmas, 2–6pm

• We can dispense all prescriptions • Blister-packing and delivery service available Give Louis a call to discuss your needs or queries

newsbriefs Christmas Open House at Grace Church Grace Community Church (situated in the former Finneran’s public house, Ballymurray) invites the community to come and enjoy some mince pies, good coffee and some Christmas cheer. This open evening will be held next Friday (16th) from 7-9.30 pm.

Extension of Boyle Garda Station hours Senator Frank Feighan has welcomed the extension of opening hours at Boyle Garda Station. “I had raised this issue a number of times with the Minister for Justice, France Fitzgerald, following the introduction of revised opening hours at Boyle Garda Station in April 2015. “These opening times were always subject to review and I did urge Minister Fitzgerald directly on a number of occasions to examine the opening hours in this context. “The station is now open Monday to Saturday (inclusive) from 9 am-1 pm and 7 pm-10 pm. On Sunday, the station will be open from 11 am-1 pm. “Boyle Gardai have also emphasised that on occasion, Gardai on duty at the station may have to close the station temporarily in order to respond to urgent or emergency incidents that arise.”

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

ishing to (mostly)

avoid motorways, I headed for Dublin today by taking the scenic route. This brought me back into the past, venturing every so often into long-bypassed villages which were once the landmarks we encountered when driving from the country to the Capital. As I drove into and through Enfield and Kilcock, I almost expected to hear Gay Byrne condemn Charlie or Garret on the radio and sadly lament (again) that “this country is banjaxed.” It was a real drive down memory lane, passing through towns and villages that were a part of our lives many years ago. Although bypassed, effectively removed from the lives of the travelling Western brigade – these famous towns and villages from our past are still surviving, looking quite busy indeed, dotted with bright and attractive small businesses, including more restaurants and cafes than any of us, including Gaybo, could ever have imagined opening in these places. Passing a pub near Lucan, the type of place we never pass now since the arrival of the motorways, I am reminded of a day in 1997 when Fiona and I were travelling to Dublin. It was ‘Grand National Day’ and we wanted to see the action from Aintree, so, as we passed through the various towns and villages, we kept an eye on the time, hoping to find a suitable venue a few minutes before the

Murphy wants to avoid last post… Deputy Eugene Murphy pictured with his Fianna Fáil party colleagues Mattie McGrath and Robert Troy with Meave Galvin from Rathcroghan, County Roscommon and Ned O’Hara, Secretary of the Irish Post Masters’ Union and John Tansey from Cootehall, Boyle Regional Officer with the Communications Workers’ Union as part of a campaign urging people to take the time to post a card or letter to a loved one this Christmas season in a bid to safeguard the post office network. Pic: Kenneth O’Halloran

Scene from the musical ‘Beauty & The Beast’ which was staged last week at the Convent of Mercy Secondary School, Roscommon town. See review in our next issue. Picture: Andrew Fox.

start of the race. Relief then as we encountered this small pub on a corner, near Lucan, with a few minutes to go to Starter’s Orders. We settled down to watch the great sporting spectacle. But the IRA had other ideas; a bomb threat led to the race being cancelled – and to long faces in Lucan. It’s nice to revisit these landmark places from our past, nicer really than a soulless sojourn on the M4 (the truth is I have developed a nervousness around driving on motorways). Nothing else to report from Thursday’s trip, except that I left my coat behind in a chipper in a small, bypassed town, which

could be a good title for a new Irish Country song – ‘I left my coat behind in a chipper in a small, bypassed town.’ Well, maybe not…

Saturday

M

usic is certainly in the air. Tonight (Saturday) we attended the launch of Sr. Kathleen Glennon’s ‘Song of Kilteevan.’ The irrepressible Kathleen wrote the lyrics, while Miriam Hunt wrote the music. Both ladies are to be commended on an excellent piece of work. Enya Reilly is the superb singer and Track 2 on the CD

Sunday

I

couldn’t make it to Rooskey on Sunday night for the first of the Roscommon Solstice Choir’s Christmas concerts. I did pass the Church at about 7.45 pm and the cars were gathering (I had to be somewhere else, but I plan to attend one of the concerts in the coming weeks). I’m glad to hear that it was a successful kick-off to a busy festive season for the choir. They too have been busy making a CD. Their ‘A Christmas Wish’ CD contains a host of festive favourites. Make sure to buy a copy. You’ll love it, and you’ll be helping local charities.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople

Christmas Catering at

MOLLOYS

‘PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR ROSSIES!’ The Roscommon Football Legends limited edition book, which pays tribute in words and pictures to the great 1977-80 team, will be launched at three different venues this weekend. The book, in association with Pieta House, traces the exploits of this super Roscommon

team through interviews with players, backroom team and supporters, along with 170 images. Seamus Hayden (launching the book on Friday, December 9th, Hannon’s Hotel, 8 pm); John O’Mahony (launching the book on Saturday, December 10th, Hodson Bay Hotel, 8 pm); and Dermot Earley Junior (launching the book on Sunday, December 11th, Kilronan Castle, 6 pm) are the special guests. Admission for launches is free and full details are on the Roscommon Football Legends Facebook page.

SALES, REPAIRS & SERVICE CASTLE SQUARE, CASTLE STREET, ROSCOMMON http://www.facebook.com /thebikeshop.ros E: thebikeshop.ros@gmail.com

TEL.: 090 666 5542

We can provide cooked turkey and ham, hot and cold food platters and sweet & savoury canapes Gluten Free Trifle Sponge, Gluten Free Mince Pies NOW AVAILABLE

#rosmas

Roscommon Legends book launches this weekend

Put your feet up and let us do the work for you ... #rosmas

Seamus Hayden (left, with Pat Spillane at the recent launch of the Dermot Earley GAA Centre of Excellence) will launch ‘The Roscommon Football Legends’ book in Hannon’s Hotel on Friday (details of other launches in article). Picture: Gerard O’Loughlin.

Call us on 090 66 25940

Phone 090 6625940 or call into us in Abbeytown, Roscommon Facebook.com/molloys.bakery • E.: info@molloysbakery.ie

Christmas shopping at

A H

SON CENTR I R R ROSCOMMON TOWN E Season’s greetings to one and all

SHOP LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS #rosmas

In the heart of Roscommon town .... Harrison Coffee House & Restaurant Telephone: (090) 6634909

CALL 086 8266790

GLAMORIZE

JACKSONS’

GUEST HOUSE & RESTARANT TEL. 090 66 65599

JJ Harlows

Tel.: 090 66 26225

TEL. 0 9 0 6 6 2 7 0 9 9

FASHION ACCESSORIES TEL. 090 66 34961

New to the Harrison Centre

John would like to thank everyone for their support and custom over the past number of years

If you have a bicycle left in for repair, please collect as the SHOP WILL BE CLOSED from Friday 16th December Telephone: (090) 66 65542 for further information

The Clothes Line

Tel: 086 7203063 Based upstairs in Molloys Lifestyle Pharmacy and Health Store

TEL. 090 66 30509

TEL. 090 66 30509

CALL ANNE ON 087 2721757

TEL. 090 66 27666

Back 2 Basics House The Slaughter

TEL. 0 9 0 6 6 3 0 5 0 5

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

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NewsPeople

Cormican’s expands services with purchase of Ros OfďŹ ce Supplies deposit facility are in place to assist the customer as much as possible. They also stock a large selection of art supplies, Winsor & Newton, Daler-Rowney, Reeves, LeFranc & Bourgeois and a wide variety of arts and crafts. Other services include colour photocopying, binding, laminating and a faxing service and they will be launching their new office supplies catalogue in the coming weeks. They also run an online store www. cormicans.com where all their products can be purchased and delivered worldwide.

Cormican’s Office, School & Art Supplies. Picture: Andrew Fox

Now a one-stop shop for school, art and ofďŹ ce supplies!

C

ormican’s of Abbey Street, Roscommon recently announced the purchase of well-known Roscommon business, Ros Office Supplies from Michael Connaughton – and are now stocking all office supplies previously provided by them, such as ink cartridges, printers, paper, office furniture and all office essentials. Aisling and Fergal Cor-

mican would like to take this opportunity to thank Michael Connaughton for assisting them in the smooth transition of the business transaction and for his support throughout the whole process. They wish him the very best of luck in his retirement. They would also like to thank Ann Connaughton for her help and support during the transitional period.

Belinda Hanley, Fergal Cormican, Aisling Cormican and Niamh Cormican pictured at Cormican’s School & Art Supplies. Picture: Andrew Fox

Aisling Cormican, told the Roscommon People: “We are very excited to add this new leg to our business here at Cormican’s and we feel it is an excellent fit with our ethos of providing high quality customer service to new and existing customers. “We will endeavour to

continue the excellent level of service which Michael provided to his customers over his 33 years in business and look forward to meeting with our new customers over the coming weeks.� The new business venture has meant an expansion at Cormican’s shop on Abbey

Street, Roscommon town where you will now find all your school, art and office supplies under one roof. Cormican’s, a family-run business with siblings Aisling and Fergal at the helm, pride themselves on adding that personal touch and are constantly on the lookout for new ways to ensure that

Better hearing, much better prices Prior to entering the market, Blackberry Hearing’s market research validated that there was significant consumer dissatisfaction with pricing and after-care service. So, the focus for the company has been on providing quality, affordability, price transparency and simplicity but ultimately ensuring the customer gets the best possible solution for their individual needs. To achieve this the company has instilled an ethos where no stone is left unturned to ensure total customer satisfaction. Employing only BSc qualified audiologists, a rarity in the business, ensures that the customer receives the best possible consultation and thereafter the best possible solution. Price transparency has been a cornerstone of the Blackberry Hearing philosophy. Research again revealed that prices advertised in the industry were rarely available during or after

the consultation. To this end, Blackberry Hearing ensures that anyone attending one of their free hearing consultations is aware beforehand of the cost of hearing aids for them, should they want to proceed. This then is backed up by a 45day cooling off period, where a customer has the assurance they can return the hearing aids for a full refund should they not be fully satisfied. The ultimate measure of a company’s success in providing customer care must come from the customers themselves. Blackberry Hearing has expanded rapidly and now holds over 60 fortnightly clinics. The feedback from both clinic partners and customers has been overwhelmingly positive. An example of comments from letters sent to the regional press includes “I can only say that the service was top class�. “We did not necessarily set out to be disruptive� according to John “but our low pricing and

strong customer care seems to have done just that. Being able to hear again is transformative to people with hearing loss. Research shows that people with hearing loss retreat from social interaction with family, friends, and colleagues with drastic results on their mental wellbeing. Changing peoples’ lives for the better at an affordable price

customers get the best possible service when it comes to buying school books, school stationery, art supplies and now office supplies. Cormican’s offer a full selection of Primary and Post-Primary school books as well as a huge range of school stationery. Services such as school book covering and a

* Cormican’s would like to thank their members of staff for their loyalty and dedication over the years. “We couldn’t have done this without a good team behind us�. “We would also like to thank all our customers who have supported us over the past 35 years and we look forward to meeting your needs for many years to come!�

Megan Munnelly, Audiologist Hearing is one of those things that we all take for granted until it’s taken away. I have seen that many times and have witnessed the effect the loss of hearing can have on an individual’s life, as well as their families. I love keeping active and socialising and I can see how if these things were taken away from me my life would change. I really enjoy the feeling of helping somebody regain parts of their lives that were neglected because of their hearing difficulty. It really is rewarding and I have great job satisfaction.

is a really good feeling.� While 2016 has been the first full year of trading, Blackberry Hearing has expanded significantly to most of the country and hopes to bring its service to the far reaches of the country by 2017. Meanwhile, you can book a FREE hearing consultation at a clinic near you or find out more by phoning Blackberry Hearing directly at 01-6978470.

Quote from letter to 3PTDPNNPO 1FPQMF

“I can only say that the service was top class� Call us now at below numbers or drop in...

3PTDPNNPO 5PXO 3PTNFE 1IBSNBDZ (PMG -JOLT 3PBE 5FMFQIPOF

$BTUMFSFB ,FBSOFZhT $IFNJTU .BJO 4USFFU 5FMFQIPOF

FREE Hearing test appointments being taken for December. John Ryan and Dave Gleeson founded Blackberry Hearing last year to address the shockingly high cost of hearing aids. Providing quality hearing solutions at about 40% of the price of other retailers has meant that hundreds of people, who may otherwise have been unable to afford hearing aids, have had their lives changed for the better.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople

ABBEY STREET ROSCOMMON. Tel & Fax: 090 6626520 SEAN COSTELLO STREET, ATHLONE. Tel & Fax: 090 64 75232 Website: www.cormican.com • Email: info@cormican.com

To celebrate the launch of our

OFFICE SUPPLIES we are offering

10%

OFF

ALL OFFICE & ART SUPPLIES*

THIS WEEKEND ONLY! #rosmas *T&Cs apply. Special offer is in store only. Valid Friday 9th & Saturday 10th. Excludes school books and special offers. Not applicable to orders on account. Fergal and Aisling Cormican pictured at Cormican’s School & Art Supplies. Picture: Andrew Fox

OFFICE SUPPLIES

Goff Street, Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 25141. Fax: (090) 66 25453

As many of our customers, and the wider business community in Roscommon know, I have decided to retire from the business of Ros Office Supplies after over 30 years serving the office supplies needs of many local and regional businesses and the wider office supply market. I have enjoyed every moment and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my loyal customers for their custom over the past number of years. A special word of thanks to my family, to all the staff of Ros Office Supplies, with whom I have worked with throughout the years, especially Ann who has worked with me for over 20 years, for their loyalty, diligence and enthusiasm at all times. I am delighted that all our exisiting customers will continue to be served locally by another Roscommon town family business, Cormican’s. I wish Fergal, Aisling and all their team in Abbey Street every success for the future. I have no doubt they will continue to maintain and grow the business going forward. If I could make one final wish, that would be to shop local wherever possible, your custom no matter how big or small really does make a difference.

Thank you and Season’s Greetings to one and all ... Michael Connnaughton.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople

‘Brown turf of the bog is in my soul’ How Sr Kathleen was inspired to write Song of Kilteevan! ast Saturday evening Kilteevan Community Centre was packed to capacity to celebrate the launch of ‘Song Of Kilteevan’, composed by Sr. Kathleen Glennon (lyrics) and Ms. Miriam Hunt (music). Michael Spellman, Chairperson of Kilteevan Community Development Group, welcomed the large gathering. A special word of welcome and thanks was extended to Ms. Richenda Reid who acted as Irish Sign Language Interpreter for the event. Sr. Kathleen Glennon spoke briefly about how the great work carried out by the local community in developing Kilteevan had inspired her to write the Song of Kilteevan. “The

L

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551

Pictured at the launch of the Song of Kilteevan were Michael Barry, Charlotte Ó Dálaigh, Enya Reilly, Eamon Ó Dálaigh, Eileen Fahey and Michael Spellman. Picture: Andrew Fox

Shop local Eat local Stay local local newspaper

A campaign by your

Please keep jobs in County Roscommon!

Continued on page 9->

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople

ift this g e u iq n u n a e iv G Christmas ... Pictured at the launch of the Song of Kilteevan were Pat Pierce and Kathleen Devaney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Continued from page 8->

words came easy” she said, “the brown turf of the bog is in my soul.” Mrs. Phil Reilly, a long-standing Kilteevan resident, formally launched the two-track CD. Mrs. Reilly said she was honoured to be invited to launch the CD and that she hoped everyone would enjoy it. She congratulated Kathleen and Miriam on their wonderful composition. She said the fact that her two granddaughters, Enya and Shauna Reilly, and her late husband, Paddy, were singing on the CD made it very special for her. To a hushed audience, Enya Reilly performed Song of Kilteevan (Track 1 on the CD) accompanied on piano by Miriam Hunt. The audience rose to their feet in a standing ovation in appreciation.

Eileen Fahey, manager of the project, commenting on The Song of Kilteevan, said aspects of Kilteevan’s heritage are now immortalised in this beautiful song. “Long after we are gone, our heritage will be commemorated in Song of Kilteevan”, she said. Eileen then introduced a video to accompany the new song, which also received a standing ovation. A brief history of the traditionally held story in relation to James Hickey, (composer of Track 2 on the CD), The Groves of Kilteevan, was provided by Eileen Fahey. Enya Reilly then introduced her late grandfather Paddy Reilly singing The Groves of Kilteevan. This was a recording which was made by Mrs. Gertie Brady, Clooncraff c. 2000. The recording was

Pictured at the launch of the Song of Kilteevan were Phil Hayden, Suzanne Stroker and Mary Kelly. Picture: Andrew Fox

digitised for inclusion on the new CD. Paddy Reilly’s poignant, haunting and soulful rendition of The Groves brought tears to many eyes. Presentations were made to Phil Reilly, Miriam Hunt, Sr. Kathleen Glennon, Eileen Fahey and to Eamon Ó Dálaigh, Midland Sound Equipment, who generously donated many hours of his time, expertise and resources to this project. The following singers and musicians who collaborated in the production were thanked: Shauna Reilly, Joe Healy, Adrian Harrington and Patrice Coyle. Charlotte Ó Dálaigh and Michael Barry who produced the beautiful video were also thanked. The co-sponsors of the project, Reimas

Developments and the Sisters of Mercy, Western Province, received words of gratitude. Entertainment at the launch was provided by Michael Banahan, Tommy Murray, Pat Devaney and Tom Brady. Messages of congratulations and good wishes were received from Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment; Katherine Zappone, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs; Dr. Louise Gilligan; Professor Micheál O Súilleabháin; Fr. Tommy Harlow and John Brennan, outgoing Director, CIA, USA. * The CD is on sale locally with proceeds going to Kilteevan Community Development Group.

NERVOUS BEGINNERS WELCOME

Mental health ‘debacle’ slammed “The situation with regard to Mental Health services in counties Roscommon and Galway has not improved and the HSE and the Minister have serious questions to answer.” That’s the view of Roscommon-Galway Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice. Speaking out, Deputy Fitzmaurice said: “The Mental Health services sector in Roscommon-Galway are still in crisis when you hear reports that professionals such as psychologists have been withdrawn from the system because of a lack of funding. “Two people have been moved from Knockroe House in Castlerea and I presume

and hope that is a voluntary situation. The third person that was there has moved across to an independent living centre. “I wonder do the HSE and the people who are running these services really know what is going on, because it looks to me to be a total debacle. We seem to be limping from one crisis to another. “It is amazing that our two biggest political parties, Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, who are in Government and supporting the Government, are standing idly by and allowing this situation to continue. I will once again be pursuing this critical issue in the Dáil.”

St. Dominic’s G.A.A. Club

DRAW Average Weekly Price 2016

€1,150! Why not give a Gift Voucher this Christmas Vouchers available: 52 and 26 weeks Photographed on the occasion of the recording of the CD on June 27th last were (l to r) Sr. Kathleen Glennon (lyrics composer), Enya Reilly (singer) and Miriam Hunt (music composer).

€100

Voucher 52 Draws

€50

Voucher 26 Draws

Pictured at the launch of the Song of Kilteevan were Laoise and Caoimhe Egan with their grandaunt, Sr. Kathleen Glennon. Picture: Andrew Fox

GUARANTEED WINNER EACH WEEK

Contact us on 087 687 1018

Buy ONLINE at www.naomhdominic.ie

Christmas Draw Join us on the 26th December in Murray’’s Bar, Knockcroghery Pictured at the launch of the Song of Kilteevan were Sr. Mary Walsh, Tommy and Agnes Murray. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the launch of the Song of Kilteevan were Teresa and John Reilly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Thank you for your continued support throughout the year. Wishing you a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople Feighan hails ‘final piece in jigsaw’ He has – to put it mildly – bee maligned in recent years sinc n much explosively controversial dec e his vote with the Government ofision to on the Roscommon A&E clos the day ure issue in 2011. But Senator Frank Feighan rem insistent that he would vote ains as he did that day, and he conagain – now as a Senator – to champtinues recent improvements at Ros ion common Hos pital. Pictured at the meeting in Leinster House (left to right): Deputies Eugene Murphy and Michael Fitzmaurice; Senator Frank Feighan; Minister Simon Harris; Cynthia Clampett Senator Feighan says that Min and Oliver McGuinness of Mayo/Roscommon Hospice. Harris’ commitment to staff ister Hospice Unit at the hospital a new is “the final piece of the jigsaw when to the multi-million developm it comes programme at Roscommon Couent nty Hospital.” He add ed: “At the hospital, commitment by Health would give a written commitment life-limiting illnesses to access meeting, said that he wishes to have a newly opened Endoscwe now Minister Simon Harris that the to fund the staffing of the centre expert in-patient help locally.” congratulate the people from we have the formal go-aheadopy Unit; funding will be provided to staff when it is built. Senator Feighan’s party the Hospice organisation for the for Me dical Rehabilitation Unit and the the planned 8-bed Hospice Unit at Senator Frank Feighan said the colleague, Senator Maura Hopkins, excellent work they do in the the Hospice project continues to now Roscommon County Hospital has 12,000 sq. ft. level two Hospice also welcomed the funding community. make further strides. been welcomed. It is understood Unit planned for Roscommon confirmation. He said: “This will be a “I wo uld also like to remind that the Unit will be completed by will provide for inpatient care, a Senator Hopkins said that unique development as it will that the Urgent Care Centre everybody 2020/2021. palliative day-care service, family “Mayo/Roscommon Hospice be integrated with the existing from 8 am to 8 pm, seven dayis open Local Oireachtas representatives support and bereavement services, must be strongly commended hospital and will be paid for s a week. and members of Mayo/ while also serving as a base for for huge effort, energy and work largely by the Mayo/Roscommon “Additionally, the air ambulance wh ich operates from Custum Roscommon Hospice met with the the existing community palliative in bringing the project to this Hospice. Barracks and the presence ofe Minister in Leinster House last home care team. point. “The unit will cost over paramedics continue to save advanced week. “This state-of-the art She added: “I am delighted that €4.5 million to construct and many live s in this region. The Mayo/Roscommon Hospice development will address the Minister Harris has been able to will require at least 15 staff to “All of this evidence clearly poi organisation has already approved critical lack of an in-patient commit to staffing this new stateoperate and I will be working nts to a very bright future for Roscom the capital funds for the Palliative hospice care facility in County of-the-art facility.” hard to ensure that this muchmo n Care Centre and at last week’s Roscommon. When complete, the Independent TD Michael needed facility comes to fruition Hospital and it was certainly som eth ing tha t many did not envisage meeting Minister Harris said he centre will enable patients with Fitzmaurice, who attended the over the next few years.” five years ago.”

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople PUBLIC NOTICE

REGISTER OF ELECTORS 2017/2018

Schools’ funding will save lives – Naughten Local politicians have welcomed more than €406,000 in CLÁR funding for 32 projects across County Roscommon. Minister of State for Regional Economic Development, Michael Ring, announced the funding on Thursday. 31 schools in County Roscommon will benefit, as will various community projects. Local Minister Denis Naughten said that the funding to improve road safety within the vicinity of schools in Counties Roscommon and Galway will reduce speed and save lives. “Over a long number of years, I have pushed various Governments to improve road safety around schools and this investment is a significant step

Notice is hereby given that the List of Claims to have corrections made in the Draft Register of Electors is now being published. The List of Claims is available for inspection at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon County Council, your Local Municipal District Offices, Head Garda Station, Head Post Office and County Library. The Draft Register (PINK) remains on display at all of the above locations. CLAIMS FOR INCLUSION OF NAMES ON THE 2017 /2018 REGISTER OF ELECTORS WILL BE ADJUDICATED ON BY THE COUNTY REGISTRAR AT PUBLIC SITTINGS TO BE HELD AT THE VENUES LISTED BELOW. INTERESTED PERSONS MAY ATTEND. Thursday, 15th December

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Thursday, 15th December

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forward in addressing this issue,” he said. Senator Frank Feighan was particularly delighted that €40,000 was allocated to Keadue playground. Senator Maura Hopkins, who also welcomed the Keadue funding, said that the monies allocated for schools will result in enhanced safety measures being installed such as better signage, road markings, lights and pedestrian crossings. However, Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Galway Eugene Murphy TD, while welcoming the allocation of over €400,000 in funding, expressed disappointment that funding for local access roads in the county has been “totally abandoned.”

Where the money is going… Deputy Eugene Murphy outlined where the monies went: “Some of the biggest allocations went to Ballinagare NS and Elphin NS who both got €30,000 for a pedestrian crossing and warning signs, while Ballaghaderreen NS will receive €25,000 for similar works. Cortober NS will receive €22,000 to help reduce speed from the N4

while Ballyfeeney NS in Strokestown has been allocated €16,000 for safety speed signs and work on road markings. Strokestown Boys NS will also get €25,000 for a pedestrian crossing. There’s €12,500 for Cloonfower NS in Tarmonbarry as well as €10,000 for Whitehall NS and Ballagh NS. There was good news

Ballymahon, Co. Longford. Tel. 090 64 32387. Contact: Martin Nally, 087 2568044, John Nolan, 087 9205325 or David Healy, 087 9119898

for Keadue Playground with an allocation of over €39,000.” Independent Councillor Domnick Connolly expressed a warm welcome for the CLÁR funding for schools. He said the recipients were: Cloonbonniffe School: €2,500; Greaghnafarna: €3,000; Ballinaheglish National School: €2,000; Ballagh

National School: €10,000; Granlahan School: €2,500; Athleague National School: €10,000; Castlecoote National School: €14,000; Ballymurray National School: €16,000; Kilteevan National School: €16,000; Roxboro National School: €16,000; Jack and Jill Playgroup, Ballinlough: €14,000.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople

Pictured at the ‘16 Days Campaign Opposing Violence Against Women’ launch at the Roscommon Women’s Network shop in Castlerea were friends and staff of Roscommon Women’s Network and Garda Tyrone Tobin. Picture: Andrew Fox

Local women remember the victims of violence On Friday, 25th of November last, Roscommon Women’s Network took part in the national moment of remembrance where 209 candles were lit to commemorate the women and children who died in Ireland through violence since 1996. This marked the start of the 16 Days of Action Opposing Violence Against Women Campaign which runs until 10th of December. “This is an important opportunity to raise awareness and call for changes at an international, national and local level to make women and children safe from abuse” explained Maria Harris, Development Worker at RWN. Each of the names of those who died since 1996 were read out by staff, volunteers and the general public in a simple yet moving ceremony. This ceremony is part of the Women’s Aid campaign that challenges the victim-

blaming culture that surrounds domestic violence and brings to the fore women’s voices. Maria explained that “During these 16 days of action we will build better awareness and understanding of the complex nature of domestic violence in our communities and online.” In addition to this raising awareness around domestic abuse, Roscommon Women’s Network is doing an online facebook campaign where someone is photographed with a fact around domestic abuse each day for the 16 days. Summing up the event, Maria explained: “Domestic abuse supports are on offer to those in need by ringing Women’s Aid on 1800 341900 or Safelink on 071 9664200. They are holding an open day on Thursday, December 8th (today) as part of the same campaign.”

Pictured at the ‘16 Days Campaign Opposing Violence Against Women’ launch at the Roscommon Women’s Network shop in Castlerea were Rita McLoughlin, Teresa Cunningham and Tracey Crawley. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople News from the Europe Direct Centre @Ballinasloe Library “Clean Energy”: EU Commission’s overhaul of Europe’s power markets The European Commission has announced a “Clean Energy Package”, consisting of nine pieces of legislation which mean a significant overhaul of Europe’s electricity market. The Commission wants the EU to lead the clean energy transition, not only adapt to it. For this reason the EU has committed to cut CO2 emissions by at least 40% by 2030 while modernising the EU’s economy and delivering on jobs and growth for all European citizens. The proposals have three main goals: putting energy efficiency first, achieving global leadership in renewable energies and providing a fair deal for consumers. It’s being described as setting common rules and

getting the EU’s various markets better integrated, with the aim of reducing artificial bottle-necks and letting energy flow quickly to where it’s most needed. It should also improve renewables in the energy mix, empower consumers and increase energy efficiency. Miguel Arias Cañete, the Climate Action and Energy Commissioner said: “Our proposals provide a strong market pull for new technologies, set the right conditions for investors, empower consumers, make energy markets work better and help us

meet our climate targets. I’m particularly proud of the binding 30% energy efficiency target, as it will reduce our dependency on energy imports, create jobs and cut more emissions. Europe is on the brink of a clean energy revolution and just as we did in Paris, we can only get this right if we work together. With these proposals, the Commission has cleared the way to a more competitive, modern and cleaner energy system. Now we count on the European Parliament and our Member States to make it a reality.”

Pictured at the lighting of the Shine a Light Tree in Knockcroghery were Bernadette Corcoran and Aisling O’Grady. Picture: Andrew Fox

‘Shop local to keep jobs local’ – Connolly FORGET THE FARAWAY HILLS! Independent Councillor Domnick Connolly has appealed to the people of Roscommon to shop local this Christmas season. Issuing a press statement, he said: “People should shop local at all times, but especially this Christmas. “Faraway hills always look green, but there is

great value to be had locally, and most importantly, local jobs will be kept local if people spend their money in their own towns and villages. “People should keep in mind that the shopkeepers in Enniskillen and Newry will not support any local organisations here in Roscommon, and they will not give any part-time jobs to Roscommon students during the summer months. So once again I am appealing for people to shop local and make it a happy Christmas for the local economy”, he concluded.

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NewsPeople

From My Kitchen Table No excuse for Eric Bristow’s pugnacious remarks!

newsbriefs

MIRIAM KERINS

T

he complex trauma of child abuse, whether it’s emotional neglect, physical abuse or sexual abuse, or indeed maltreatment in any form, can cast a horrific and suppressing shadow over a survivor’s very existence – often leaving some ill-equipped to deal with certain aspects of adult life. And, while not all survivors experience adverse outcomes, with many going on to lead perfectly happy lives and to form fulfilling and significant relationships, believe me readers when I tell you that nothing, absolutely nothing, can wound a child or an adult more than being violated by a person they know, love and trust with all of their hearts. Last week, a whopping 350 footballers in the UK came forward with claims of historical sexual abuse, rendering police the length and breadth of the country to be inundated with reports, many dating back decades, with

Well done to Jen! There are many things one should never do following a relationship break-up, and, in my opinion, morphing into a mid-life crisis cliché and stumbling into hell’s waiting room by hooking up with your ex has got to be top of that list. It’s also clearly Jennifer Aniston’s, above, opinion too, ‘cos the actress reportedly declined a dinner invitation from former hubby Brad Pitt when they were both visiting London recently – and I admire her for her integrity. Look, in an ideal world, consenting adults who used to be in a relationship/married should be able to meet up and have an innocent coffee or dinner…but the cold harsh reality is once that particular plaster has been painfully, gut-wrenchingly ripped off and you’ve moved on and remarried, as Ms. Anniston has, you don’t want to open up that ugly, old wound. And, even if that ex happens to be the attractive in a minimalist sort of way, Brad Pitt, remember you left that particular union for what it wasn’t, and not for what it was!

Pictured is Eoghan Dunne (The Walk, Roscommon) being conferred with a Bachelor of Electronics and Computer Engineering at NUI Galway, where he is now pursuing a PHD in Medical Devices.

Comhaltas Music Session The Roscommon Town branch of Comhaltas will hold its next music session in Doorly’s Corner House from 6 pm to 8 pm on this Sunday (the second Sunday of the month). The branch wishes all its members, musicians, singers, dancers and supporters a very Happy Christmas.

Refurbishment of Ballinasloe Garda Station in New Year

Eric Bristow, the former darts world champion, has lost his role as a commentator on Sky Sports’ darts coverage.

allegations being made against various individuals at various levels of the game. I have to say I admire those men for their candour and for their bravery in speaking out and lifting the so-called taboo on openly talking about sexual abuse. Thankfully, they are the reason more will speak out. However, darts legend and judgemental dope, Eric Bristow MBE – and macho halfwits like him – are the reason why some will, sadly, remain silent and abusers will walk away; their vile acts blighting the lives of their victims, devastating them for the rest of their days. Upon hearing the news of the claims, Bristow somehow ignorantly thought it was okay to embark on an ill-advised tweeting binge, posting ‘Dart players tough guys footballers wimps,’ clearly inflicting even more damage and anguish on these brave individuals; children when the alleged abuse occurred; now grown men, husbands, partners and fathers. Okay, the cockney rebel Grinch has now apologised for labelling those who came forward as ‘wimps,’ however he incredibly

upheld and defended his comments by comparing himself to Donald Trump, using the whiney just being “straightforward” defence, releasing a statement saying his “wording was wrong and offended many people.” Understatement of the year! Well, in the interest of being ‘straightforward’, I’d like to say that ignorant, outdated, shameful cretins like ‘Crafty Cockney’ Bristow, a onetime ‘national treasure’, have no place in a progressive society, and, while people are entitled to their opinion, sharing such damaging and hurtful judgemental perspectives on a public forum should be seriously curtailed. And, for the sake of balance, ‘cos I like to be fair, while I know we could excuse Bristow as being a product of his time, I refuse to excuse his pugnacious remarks and I’m glad he lost his position as a darts pundit with Sky. In the meantime, back home on our own shores, in what I would deem to be a very pressing child protection concern, Gardaí and child and family agency Tusla are investigating claims of a very serious nature at a prestigious co-education,

private boarding school in Dublin; a school I know quite well, where it is alleged a 13-year-old boy was sexually assaulted by up to eight other students. I applaud this young man’s incredible courage in speaking out immediately and making the complaint and I hope to God the proper authorities get to the bottom of this horrendous alleged incident as a matter of urgency. I also sincerely hope that the media in general continue to handle the accusations and the outcome, as it unfolds, with a degree of dignity, and keep in mind that there are children and families at the heart of this horrific and disturbing development. For anyone affected by sexual abuse, please don’t suffer in silence; please seek support on www.rapecrisishelp. ie or you can call their 24 Hour Helpline on PH: 1800 778888. Or for a more local centre, The Athlone Midlands Rape Crisis Centre can be contacted at www.amrcc.ie or their helpline is PH: 1800 306 600. Opening hours are Mon to Fri – 10 am to 1 pm. I would also urge those affected to contact their local Garda Station.

This Old House… I see wrinkly rocker Rod Stewart is having a few problems off-loading his £7 million Essex mansion, right, even dropping the asking price by £500,000; but seriously folks, having seen pictures in last week’s Daily Mail, I can say with confidence that this mansion’s interior is possibly the home that tasteful décor forgot. I mean, with such attractions as monogrammed cushions and garish ceiling murals, the fabulous Sistine Chapel, the very cornerstone of Renaissance art, must surely be beside itself…not! I’m sure poor Rod had lofty aspirations when

he modelled his home on what looks like Mrs. Doubtfire’s outdated style, but from a sophisticated prospective buyer’s point of view, the country pile with the flamboyant interior is probably proving to be more than just a misstep, it’s comically poor, and, dare I suggest…tacky, and, could possibly be voted the ultimate interior design fail of 2016.

An Tanáiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald visited Ballinasloe Garda Station recently and met with Superintendent Aiden Foley and local Gardaí. Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins stated that “it is very positive that the Tanáiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, Frances Fitzgerald confirmed that works will commence on the refurbishment of Ballinasloe Garda Station in late January 2017.” Senator Hopkins said that “Ballinasloe Garda Station will benefit from a major refurbishment of the station and development of enhanced custody facilities. Having seen the inadequate current facilities and spoken with Gardaí, I am very pleased that funding has been approved for these works which are due to commence in late January 2017.”

Feighan welcomes €100,000 investment Senator Frank Feighan has welcomed a €100,000 investment in two different wastewater projects in Boyle town, benefitting 4,500 consumers. “Irish Water has informed me that one of the projects, which is ongoing, involves the refurbishment of the Boyle public sewer network, while the other, which is completed, involved works at the Boyle Wastewater Treatment Plant. The work done by the latter has improved the quality of final effluent being discharged from the plant. “The public sewer refurbishment works are taking place in two different locations in Boyle town – Wooden Bridge estate to Drum Bridge and Bridge Street. “The programme of works involves jetting and cleaning sections of sewer network, the replacement of 80 metres of existing sewer, CCTV surveys of parts of the sewer network, the rehabilitation of 23 manholes to eliminate surface water infiltration, as well as repairs and connections to a number of already existing sewers. “Irish Water has told me that the project, which commenced at the start of November, is expected to be fully commissioned in February 2017 and involves road reinstatement works. “The principal objective of the project is to provide wastewater that is in compliance with the EPA wastewater discharge license.”

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur Awards

Castlerea Boxing Club hosts Christmas Show Castlerea Boxing Club will be holding a Christmas Show this coming Saturday, 10th of December. The show promises a night of entertainment from some of our youngest boxers up to senior level. Visiting clubs will be Elphin, Loughglynn, Ballinrobe, Ardagh and Swinford boxing clubs. We would love to see our community turn out and support our boxers and enjoy the show at The Enterprise Hub, Demesne, Castlerea on Saturday, 10th of December at 7 pm. Admission is €5. All are welcome.

Carol singing in Ballaghaderreen in aid of Hospice Ballaghaderreen Hospice support group will be carol singing at Duffy’s SuperValu, Ballaghaderreen, on Friday, the 23rd December from 11 am. All the funds raised will greatly help to maintain local hospice palliative care services for those in the community who need it most, especially those going through a difficult time due to illness during the Christmas season. Please remember them and support this most worthy cause.

Annual Fun Walk in Ballaghaderreen The annual fun walk in aid of Roscommon/Mayo Hospice will take place in Ballaghaderreen on St. Stephen’s Day, commencing at 11 am from the Ozanam Centre. The walk offers a great chance to wear your Christmas jumper! Refreshments and lively chat will be available following the walk. All are welcome, so please come to show your support!

Four Roscommon groups win free return train trip! Four Roscommon community and voluntary organisations to benefit from a free return trip with Iarnrod Eireann. The 100 winners of the Journal Journeys have been announced – with four groups from Roscommon scooping tickets. Almost 800 organisations from right across the community, voluntary and sporting sectors applied. The winners are from diverse backgrounds, spread geographically across the country including: sports groups, charitable organisations, youth groups and musical societies. The winners from Roscommon are: Roscommon Further Education, Western Gaels gaelic4mothers, Castlerea Musical Society and Curlieu Brownies. Chief Executive David Franks said: “We have been overwhelmed again this year by the level of interest in Journal Journeys with Iarnod Eireann from voluntary organisations right across the country; we hope that the winners will enjoy their trip.”

A thank you from Ballinderry Old Cemetery Committee Following the generous donations they received, the Ballinderry Old Cemetery Committee would like to express their thanks and gratitude to all those who generously contributed. The funds raised by this recent collection are much appreciated and will be put to very good use.

Roscommon winner scoops €50,000 in time for Christmas! This week’s Prize Bond Star Prize of €50,000 went to lucky Prize Bond number ADR 476613 held somewhere in County Roscommon. The lucky bond was purchased in 2016 and means the holder will have a wonderful start to the festive period. There were over 6,500 prizes awarded in this week’s Prize Bond Draw, amounting to over €380,000. Prize Bonds can be purchased by Direct Debit, online at www.StateSavings.ie, by telephone to callsave 1850 30 50 60 or at your local Post Office. Results can be checked online and at Post Offices.

Ireland’s Best Young DESMOND SHINES AT ROSCOMMON COUNTY FINAL < SEAMUS DUKE

D

esmond Dolan of MistCalls, which is a call management system aimed at business-users, is Roscommon’s Best Young Entrepreneur for 2016. He was chosen from eleven finalists in three categories at the annual awards ceremony held last Friday in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. The awards are organised by the Roscommon Local Enterprise Office and the prizes were presented by the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Tony Ward. The competition was open to young entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35 and the three categories were pre-trading, start-up business (less than 36 months trading) and established business (more than 36 months trading). In his address, Cllr. Ward noted that the standard of the entrants to the competition in 2016 was higher than ever and that there were a total of 37 applications in the county and over 2,200 applicants nationwide. “It bodes well for the future of County Roscommon that there are so many young people who are prepared to go into business and I congratulate the Roscommon Local Enterprise Office for their great work in helping local industry and for organising these awards,” he said. “Creation of jobs is the key to the future in Roscommon and with the talent that is evident here today I am confident that there is a bright future ahead of us here in County Roscommon,” he concluded. Louise Ward, Roscommon LEO, said: “The quality and quantity of the applications received through the competition is a great indicator of a real entrepreneurial spirit in County Roscommon.” She reminded people that the doors of the Local Enterprise Office were always open to people who were thinking of setting up a business. Ms. Ward told the attendance that the competition started in June, with 37 applications. The competitors attended a boot camp at Delphi Lodge in November, along with the finalists from Mayo and Galway. The judging took place on November 21st and the judges were James Donlon and John Murphy. She thanked the judges and the hard-working staff in the Roscommon LEO for their work on the awards process. The three category winners who receive vouchers to be spent on their businesses, as well as a trophy, were: Best Business Idea (pretrading) – Runner-Up: Kyle Flynn (Heather Fed Fowl), €3,000. Winner: Desmond Dolan (MistCalls), €7,000. Best Start-Up Business (less than 36 months trading) – Runner-Up: Neil Patrick Collins (Cryptic Clique), €5,000. Winner: Kyle McLoughlin (SubTeacher.ie),

Winners at Co. Roscommon’s Best Young Entrepreneur finals in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pictured from front, left: Eoghan Kenny, Project 5 Creations T/A BeltLock.ie; Desmond Dolan, MistCalls, overall winner; Kyle McLoughlin, Posude T/A SubTeacher.ie. Also in picture, back, from left: Jeremy Cullen, LEO, Roscommon; Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council; Louise Ward, LEO, Roscommon; Enda Cannon, LEO, Roscommon; Anne Browne, LEO, Roscommon; Barry Egan, Enterprise Ireland and Cllr. Paddy Kilduff. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

€15,000. Best Established Business (more than 36 months trading) – Runner Up: Brian Larkin (Centrepoint Autos), €5,000. Winner: Eoghan Kenny (Project 5 Creations), €15,000. Overall Winner: Desmond Dolan (MistCalls). Overall winner, Desmond Dolan, expressed surprise at his win. “I’m over the moon and I wasn’t expecting to win at all, to be honest. Our idea is an innovative call manager aimed at business-users. Basically we provide a service that provides context to calls and we organise a management system. It is like a personal secretary for your business calls,” he said. “So far I am working from home. I am not from a tech background, my background is civil engineering, so I had to get developers on board and that took a while. But when they looked at it they saw it was worthwhile and we are hoping to start our testing by the end of next month. We hope to fully launch the business in March or April,” he said. “We can’t wait to get started. There are three developers along with myself involved and we have 26 years of experience between us. We are very excited by the prospects for this business and we can’t wait to get started. I am thrilled to have won here today against such stiff competition. It is a great boost for the business,” he concluded. The three category winners will progress to the regional finals and national finals will follow.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

THE FINALISTS

Sarah Browne, Sunfl ower Nutrition Desmond Dolan, Mis tCalls Kyle Flynn, Heather Fed Fowl James Keegan, Solved Fiona McGuire, Recipe .ie Neil Patrick Collins, Cry ptic Clique Kyle McLoughlin, Pos tude T/A Subteacher.ie 8. Rikki O’Gara, Rog ue & Co Cafe 9. Charlotte Perciva l, Petals & Mortar 10. Eoghan Kenny, Project 5 Creations T/A BeltLock.ie 11. Brian Larkin, Cen trepoint Autos The Runner-Up in the Bes Category with a prize t Business Idea fund of €3,000, Certificate and Trophy is Kyle Flynn, Heather Fed Fowl. The Winner in the Bes t Business Idea Cat egory with a prize fund of €7, 000, Certificate and Trophy: Desmond Do lan, MistCalls. The Runner-Up in the Bes with a prize fund of €5, t Start-Up Category 000 trophy: Neil Patrick Co , a Certificate and a llins, Cryptic Clique. The Winner of the Bes t Start-Up Category 2016 with a prize fund of €15 ,000, a Certificate and a trophy: Kyle McLoughlin, Pos ude T/A SubTeacher.ie. The Runner-Up in the Best Established Business Category with €5,000, A Certificate and a prize fund of a Trophy: Brian Larkin, Centrepoint The Winner of the Bes Autos. t Established Busin ess Category with a priz e fun Certificate and a Trophy d of €15,000, a : Eog han Ken ny, Project 5 Creations T/A BeltLock.ie. The Award for the Ov erall County Roscomm on Winner 2016: Desmo nd Dolan, MistCalls.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

newsbriefs

Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur Awards

Solstice Choir Concert in Kilteevan

Entrepreneur Awards IRELAND’S BEST YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR The search forfor Ireland’s Best Best YoungYoung Entrepreneur 2016/17 is2016/17 well underway The search Ireland’s Entrepreneur is after an intensive selection with 2,210 applications received the 31 Local well underway afterprocess an intensive selection process withby2,210 Enterprise 6ɉces froT entrepreneurs aged Enterprise between 1 œOffi 3 ,ces withfrom i business applications received by the 31 Local idea pre trading ,aged ii start up less 18 than trading and iii established entrepreneurs between – 36 35,Tonths with (i) business idea business Tore than 36 Tonths trading reading to learn Tore (pre-trading), (ii) start-up (less than *ontinue 36 months trading) and (iii)about the Änalists partaRing in the 9oscoTTon *ounty -inal of Ireland’s Best Young established business (more than 36 months trading). Entrepreneur in each of the three categories The finalists in the Roscommon County Final of Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur are:

BEST START-UP BUSINESS CATEGORY (less than 36 months trading) Neil Patrick Collins œ *Y`W[PJ *SPX\L *ryptic *liXue is a clothing brand for Ten and woTen founded in late 201 by two young Irish creatives *ryptic *liXue produces conteTporary clothing designs of high Xuality which allow people to e_press theTselves through their personal style The founders are passionate about the ethical sourcing of their product, which they see as being iTperative in future fashion trends Kyle McLoughlin œ 7VZ\KL ; ( :\I;LHJOLY PL It’s 4onday Torning, 00aT, and a teacher has called into school sicR The principal needs a single place to see what teachers are available and XuicRly :ubTeacher ie is that place Teachers register with :ubTeacher ie, create their online proÄle and Tanage their availability weeRly >hen searching, schools can see the teacher’s proÄle along with their availability status

BEST BUSINESS IDEA CATEGORY (pre-trading) Sarah Browne Âś :\UĂ…V^LY 5\[YP[PVU :unĂ…ower 5utrition will create a centre of e_cellence for food and nutrition *hildhood and lifestyle nutrition will be a priTary focus of the business 2ey services include consultancy and educational pacRages for schools, parents, athletic teaTs, coTTunity and worRplace groups including worRshops, cooRery deTonstrations and cooRing caTps The business will include a deTonstration Ritchen with an organic vegetable garden

Rikki O’Gara Âś 9VN\L *V *HMt 9ogue *o *afe opened in (pril 201 and is centrally located on the 4ain :treet in 9oscoTTon 6pening hours are aT Âś 6pT 4on to Thurs and aT Âś pT on -ri and :at BreaRfast, lunch and dinner are served and 9ogue *o uses locally sourced ingredients wherever possible The caft has a wine and beer licence and eTploys eight full tiTe plus eight part tiTe staɈ

Desmond Dolan œ 4PZ[*HSSZ 4ist*alls is an innovative call Tanager aiTed at business users, where a Tissed call could be a Tissed opportunity The business provides all of the beneÄts of having a separate business phone, as well as allowing users to organise and add conte_t to their Tobile calls siTply and intuitively 4ist*alls Tanages your calls, giving you Tore tiTe to Tanage your business

Charlotte Percival Âś 7L[HSZ 4VY[HY

Kyle Flynn Âś /LH[OLY -LK -V^S

7etals 4ortar produces lu_ury organic sRincare products froT the highest grade, certiÄed organic ingredients Its sRincare range is tailored to individual sRin types and, by using only Tother nature’s Rindest ingredients 7etals 4ortar ensures all products are free froT synthetic fragrances, parabens and sodiuT laurel sulphates The business is e_cited to becoTe Ireland’s Tost trusted and safe lu_ury organic sRincare brand

This 5orth 9oscoTTon farT will produce heather fed fowl such as chicRen, ducR, turRey and Xuail on a diet of heather, wild grasses, wild herbs along with soTe concentrates This will bring a distinctively diɈerent taste and tenderness to the Teat, while also allowing fowl to be reared in a natural habitat with a level of serenity in which they can be at total ease

BEST ESTABLISHED BUSINESS CATEGORY (more than 36 months trading) Eoghan Kenny Âś 7YVQLJ[ *YLH[PVUZ ; ( )LS[3VJR PL

James Keegan Âś :VS]LK :olved is an innovative electrical wiring harness for trailers and agricultural Tachinery It uses revolutionary technology and LE+ lighting to provide a fully waterproof and sealed systeT The systeT eliTinates failing lights or water ingress as is the case with current halogen lighting units :olved is the new age of vehicle lighting systeTs, increasing visibility and safety on our roads

BeltLocR ie is an e coTTerce website focused on providing high Xuality products to parents that TaRe parenting easier *entred around its Ă…agship product, BeltLocR, which was developed and brought to TarRet in 2013, the business continues to add to the range of products available and is now worRing on other proprietary products which it hopes to launch in late 2017

Fiona McGuire Âś 9LJPWL PL

Brian Larkin Âś *LU[YLWVPU[ (\[VZ

9ecipe ie is the Teal planning, grocery shopping and recipe discovery app for the hoTe cooR ( website and app that is a hub for the hoTe cooR giving access to 100s and 1000s of recipes froT here in Ireland, the <2 and Internationally The website will be designed to pull in all the best recipes froT the Irish -ood Blog realT These recipes will be searchable, saveable and able to be created into easy to read shopping lists at the clicR of a button

*entrepoint (utos provides a large selection of Xuality cars at aɈordable prices, froT a central location outside (thlone (n established trader with a large preTises and reputation for Xuality cars bacRed up by high standards and e_cellent custoTer service *entrepoint (utos operates with low overheads to pass these savings onto custoTers and the business has a high social Tedia presence It worRs on the Totto ººlittle proĂ„t but Tore often’’

Roscommon Solstice Choir will host a Christmas Concert in St. Joseph’s Church, Kilteevan, on Friday, 16th of December next. Doors open at 7.30 pm and concert starts at 8 pm. Tickets are ₏10. Proceeds to The Children’s Medical & Research Foundation, Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin. Your support will be appreciated.

Aurivo duo congratulated by Ballaghaderreen Chamber of Commerce Ballaghaderreen Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Willie Murphy and Marty Dervin of Aurivo on its recent success in the category of Best Use of Technology at the Agribusiness Awards for 2016.

AGM of Historical Society on Tuesday The AGM of the Co. Roscommon Historical & Archaeology Society will take place on Tuesday (13th) at 8.30 pm in the Percy French Hotel, Strokestown. All members are requested to attend. A short talk will take place by Albert Siggins on medieval Baptismal Fonts and Trinity symbolism. All are welcome.

Ballaghaderreen Community Market is this Saturday! The Ballaghaderreen Christmas Community Market will take place this Saturday (10th). The market is being held across three shop units in Duffy’s SuperValu car park and runs from 10 am until 3 pm. There will be a range of craft stalls attending, including jewellery, knitwear/winter woolies, cakes and bakes, jams, chutneys, and much more.

Street performance in Roscommon town There will be a special performance in Roscommon town on Saturday, December 17th. ‘Da Da Ma Ma – The Child Rising’ will start at 3 pm at the Harrison Court Shopping Centre, before moving onto Main Street, then to the pop-up exhibition at the old AIB bank on Church Street where it will conclude. The running time will be about one hour and all are welcome.

Monster Bingo in Boyle! Roscommon Safe Link is hosting Monster Bingo in St. Joseph’s Hall in Boyle this Sunday at 3 pm with over ₏4,000 in prizes and a ₏1,000 jackpot. Single books are ₏10 and double books are ₏15.

Desmond Dolan is Overall County Winner and Winner of the Best Business Idea Category, pictured at Roscommon’s County Finals of the Best Young Entrepreneur Competition at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Kyle Flynn, Heather Fed Fowl, runner-up of Best Business Idea category, pictured at Roscommon’s County Finals of the Best Young Entrepreneur Competition at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Kyle McLoughlin, Posude T/A SubTeacher.ie, winner of the Best Start-up Category, pictured at Roscommon’s County Finals of the Best Young Entrepreneur Competition at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

‘Make your own Christmas table arrangement’ workshop! A ‘Make your own Christmas table arrangement’ demonstration and workshop will be held on Thursday, 15th of December at 8 pm in Knockcroghery Community Centre. â‚Ź10. Refreshments afterwards. For further information, call Marian on 086-8127128.

Charity Beard Shave in Kilrooskey A Beard Shave for Hospice Palliative Care services will be held in Rattigan’s of Kilrooskey on Saturday, 17th of December at 9 pm. There will be music, a raffle, food and craic. Please support what is a great cause. All are welcome.

Neil Patrick Collins, Cryptic Clique, runner-up in the Best Start-up Category, pictured at Roscommon’s County Finals of the Best Young Entrepreneur Competition at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Eoghan Kenny, Project 5 Creations T/A BeltlockLock. ie, winner of the Best Established Business category, pictured at Roscommon’s County Finals of the Best Young Entrepreneur competition at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Brian Larkin, Centrepoint Autos, runner-up in the Best Established Business category pictured at Roscommon’s County Finals of the Best Young Entrepreneur competition at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon For Life in appeal to public ‘Roscommon For Life’ invites people to make a submission to support retention of the 8th Amendment which protects the lives of mothers and unborn babies. The group says: “Please send submissions to Citizens Assembly, 16, Parnell Square, Dublin 7. Closing date is 16th of December.�

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

POLITICAL PEOPLE

Changing of the Guard in FF in Roscommon < PAUL HEALY

Fianna Fáil should be feeling very good about themselves in Roscommon/Galway…but there still appears to be unfinished business within the party locally, arising from what you could call ‘a series of unfortunate events.’ The party had a very good outing in the last local elections in Roscommon – and, earlier this year, regained a Dáil seat in Roscommon/Galway. And FF foot soldiers in these parts shared in the joy of their comrades nationwide when their Chief, Micheál Martin, masterminded a clever tactical manoeuvre by supporting a minority Fine Gael Government (with many Fianna Fáil policies being implemented) while officially remaining in opposition. The phrase ‘Best of both worlds’ springs to mind. However these happy times have been tarnished to a degree by ongoing tensions behind the scenes within the always interesting Roscommon FF family. There was the bruising, bizarre and long drawn out saga over selecting a General Election candidate. At much the same time, we had various Roscommon Fianna Fáil councillors bickering publicly. It’s safe to say that some Christmas card lists have been hastily amended. In the midst of all this, Cllr. Paddy Kilduff called on Micheál Martin to initiate an investigation into the secret recording of a party meeting in Strokestown. Mr. Martin has declined. Christmas cards may not be exchanged between PK in Lecarrow and FF in Lower Mount Street either. There are reports of resignations of officers in South Roscommon. Now, last week’s ‘Changing of the Guard’ in the party in Roscommon has underlined just how fatiguing the tensions have been for people. According to well-placed sources, the ‘Changing of the Guard’ was at least partly linked to the ongoing internal disharmony.

… t x e n d i a s n What Iva

changed. sition hasn’t leader. My porning back.” There is no tu ughton has now exCllr. Conna reservations about pressed strongdecision earlier this Fianna Fáil’sort the Fine Gael-led year to supp Government. k the public like it that EALY < PAUL H “I don’t thin people I speak to anyturning. r fo t no ’s uch, not the he m rangement. – Two years on Connaughton says he way. It’s not an ideal ar ianna Fáil) (F e an w l’s Iv ces, Cllr. a Fái In some instan e Gael. We e with Fiann doesn’t agre the Fine Gael/Inde- are bowing down to Fin propping up inority Government, are neither in nor out.” ged disquiet on alle pendent m public support for his Commenting at Fianna Fáil spent s r ve fo lie n be th ke d ta s an cannot be over report more on the General party’s stance about €5000 paign of Shane Cure granted. stunned th on ht lection cam ene Murug na Cllr. Con as 2014 E n than they did on Eug naughton tm is hr C ng ri ra on du party locally oscommon People in- phy’s campaign, Cllr. Cthe fuss was when, in a Rcalled for Fianna Fáil said he didn’t see what terview, he ál Martin to step down. about. ’s more on Shane leader Miche ednesday) he said that be they spent didn’t have the ay “M (W in he use sition Yesterday campaign becaas Eugene, who, after anged his po le he has not chg two years. ofi pr e m sa y. The main the interveninafter the 2014 by-elec- all, is 30 years in the part – that’s all at , se en r e th ain fo on th “I said ld not stand aglection thing is we w” E d. tion, that I wou re al te er at en m G at a th in Fianna Fáil eputy Martin is party as long as D

er We’re neith in nor out!

Neither in nor out! Pictured at a Fianna Fáíl Dinner Dance in the Hodson Bay Hotel in 2013 were Cllr. Ivan Connaughton and Deputy Micheál Martin. Picture: Andrew Fox

As for the details…well, we hear that long-time party officers P. Burke (chairperson) and Mary Clifford (secretary) both stepped down from their officer positions at last week’s Comhairle Dáil Ceantair meeting, held in the Abbey Hotel. Mr. Burke was nominated for the position of chairperson but withdrew his name. Mr. Burke and Ms. Clifford are longstanding loyal party servants. The Changing of the Guard was completed with outgoing treasurer Kathleen Murray also stepping down. Seamus Kelly and Tom Leech were both proposed as candidates to succeed Mr. Burke in the chair. Mr. Kelly withdrew his name and Mr. Leech was deemed to be elected. Ms. Clifford was succeeded as secretary by Sean Óg Higgins. Kathleen Murray was succeeded as treasurer by Malachy Hand. Only time will tell how Mr. Leech – and his young guns – will now fare.

Will sparks fly at fireside chat? Social Democrats make mark The Social Democrats are on the march –including in Roscommon! One of the newest political groupings, of the many now in the Dáil, held their inaugural national conference in Dublin recently. Amongst those in attendance from this area (pictured) were Siobhan Cawley, Galway-West branch, Will Keane, Roscommon-Galway branch, Louise Borre, Galway-West, and Sharon Nolan, Galway-West. (Picture: Maura Hickey). During the conference, the Social Democrats called on the Government to address homelessness, introduce a “living wage” and reform the Civil Service. They also called for an end to religious discrimination in schools and the abolition of the Official Secrets Act. A new force or more of the same? We’ll watch that space…

He HASN’T gone away, you know. Hot on the heels of murmers that MEP Luke Flanagan is presently the lesser spotted of our high profile politicians, ‘Ming’ was back with a bang this week with a commanding contribution on Vincent Browne’s Tonight Show on TV3 (Monday night). And Ming will be going down

memory lane and probably also looking to the future when he takes part in a ‘Fireside Chat’ on Friday evening as part of the Castlerea Enterprise Town Business & Community Expo. Ming will take his place on a high profile panel that includes journalist John Waters, Roscommon GAA manager Kevin McStay, Celine Finnerty

from Harmac and Nora Fahy of the Roscommon Women’s Network. The panel will have a ‘Fireside Chat’ in front of an audience in The Enterprise Hub, Castlerea at 8.30 on Friday evening. I should know – apparently I’m chairing it. Can’t imagine I’ll have to say much… – PH

Joan: Terry’s tribute Amongst those fondly remembering Joan Burke, the former Roscommon/South Leitrim TD, who died last week, was a man who, despite being of a different political persuasion, says he saw the Tulsk woman as a colleague. Senator Terry Leyden (Fianna Fáil) says it was an honour to have served with the late Joan Burke (Fine Gael) from 1977 to 1981 (when she decided to retire from Dáil Senator Terry Leyden (Fianna Fáil) Éireann). says it was an honour to have Describing Joan Burke as “a great colleague”, Senator served with the late Joan Burke (Fine Gael) Leyden said that she had served her constituency of

Roscommon-South Leitrim with great diligence from her by-election success in 1964 to her retirement in 1981. “I first got to know her with her great friend Irene Kelly (RIP) and James White of Rockfield when I was Secretary of Roscommon International Festival in 1969, and I asked her to officially open an Art Exhibition in Roscommon. Over the period with Joan in Dáil Éireann, we attended many public events together. May she rest in peace.” Senator Leyden extended his deepest sympathy to the family of the late Joan Burke.

23

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Castlerea Enterprise Town ... SHOWCASING OUR COMMUNITY Best wishes to Castlerea Enterprise Town. Showcasing our Community event this weekend

Celebrity chef, Rachel Allen, will appear as special guest this Friday at the Castlerea Enterprise Town Expo.

As part of the Castlerea Enterprise Town event this weekend, Minister Denis Naughten will launch the Castlerea Food Hub, which is due to open in the New Year.

Major Enterprise Town weekend in Castlerea • Business & Community Expo on Friday • Sports & Community Expo on Saturday A major Castlerea Enterprise Town event which will showcase all that’s positive in the local community is being held this weekend. The venue is The Enterprise Hub, The Demesne, Castlerea. A Business & Community Expo is being held in the Castlerea Enterprise Hub tomorrow (Friday, 9th) from 5 pm-9 pm, while Saturday features a Sports & Community Expo at the same location between 11 am and 2 pm. Shannonside Radio will also broadcast live from this weekend’s event. Special guests will include Rachel

Allen who will be judging cookery competitions with the local schools. Minister Denis Naughten will officially open the new Castlerea Food Hub. There will be panel discussions covering a wide range of topics including challenges facing local agriculture with guest speakers from Teagasc, Macra & IFA. Santa Claus will also be in attendance in the kids corner of the hall and there will be music and entertainment for the family throughout the two days. Full details on pages 24-25. Commenting on the initiative, Sean

Beirne Branch Manager, Bank of Ireland, Castlerea said: “We are very excited to host the ‘Enterprise Town’ initiative in Castlerea. I am delighted to see the great level of support from the local community for the initiative. “The Enterprise Town initiative gives businesses the opportunity to promote what they have to offer. It takes a community to build a community and with the platform Enterprise Town provides, matched with the commitment shown from the people of the area, the Castlerea Enterprise Town initiative promises to deliver a major boost to the local economy and community life. The event is a fantastic opportunity for the Castlerea area.”

Castlerea Community School CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

Tel. 094 96 20177 / 21013 www.castlereacs.com • ccs1@eircom.net

For further details contact: Ms. Eileen Ryan, Mr. Jarlath Burke, Principal Deputy Principal

Best wishes to Castlerea Enterprise Town. Showcasing our Community event this weekend

CA S T L E R E A

If you would like to join Castlerea Macra na Feirme please contact Seán on 087 4146480

Best wishes to Castlerea Enterprise Town. Showcasing our Community event this weekend

Best wishes to Castlerea Enterprise Town. Showcasing our Community event this weekend

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

THURSDAY 8TH DECEMBER:

SALE OF HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS MONDAY 12TH DECEMBER:

BULLOCK SALE THURSDAY 15TH DECEMBER:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS INCLUDING 4 YEAR OLD ABERDEEN ANGUS 5 STAR BULL, BRED BY FIONN. (FINAL SALE FOR 2016.)

CASTLEREA MART WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL ITS CUSTOMERS A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND PROPEROUS 2017 THURSDAY 12TH JANUARY, 2017:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS Seán Beirne and Benny O’Connell pictured at The Hub, Castlerea. Picture: Andrew Fox

FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

24

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Castlerea Enterprise Town ... SHOWCASING OUR COMMUNITY

Webb’s Butcher

Helen Woods, Ann Devlin, Seán Beirne, Tracey Duffy, Benny O’Connell, Derette Flanagan and Helen Gannon pictured at the Bank of Ireland, Castlerea. Picture: Andrew Fox

Family fun at Sports and Community Expo Saturday’s line-up Kid’s Corner, music, food tasting, Creative Corner, face painting and much more. Over 100 local businesses on display. Saturday’s (10th) events will be opened (11 am) by Sean Beirne, Manager, Bank of Ireland, Castlerea. Mr. Beirne will then give way to the man of the moment, Santa Claus, who has promised to call shortly after 11 am. From 11.10 am there will be a Networking Session featuring interviews with local businesses. A Panel Discussion on ‘Sporting Heroes’ (from 11.30 am) will include Cathal Cregg, Roscommon footballer; Joe Henry, Basketball coach; Nigel Dineen, former Roscommon footballer; St. Kevin’s U-20 GAA team and David Fitzpatrick, Castlerea Celtic player. At 11.45 am there’s an opportunity to ‘Become a Guard for a day’ with the assistance of Garda Tyrone Tobin. Next you can ‘Become a Fireman for a day’ thanks to the friendly firemen from with Castlerea Fire Station At 11.45 am attention returns to sport with an U-15 Soccer Blitz hosted by Castlerea Celtic and an U-10 GAA Blitz hosted by St. Kevin’s GAA Club. At 12 noon ‘Safety in the Home’ will be up for discussion with some very good advice being provided. Garda Tyrone Tobin will speak on personal security, Bernie Kearney of Munitir Na Tire will also address guests and there will be information too on Mid-South Roscommon Helplink, a First Aid Demonstration and information on the Civil Defence. ‘Showcasing Local Talent’ from 12.45 will feature a fitness demo from Pulse Health & Fitness, a boxing demo and presentations on Castlerea Golf Club and Girl Guides Skills. Proceedings are scheduled to close at 2 pm. All events are free.

25

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Castlerea Enterprise Town ... SHOWCASING OUR COMMUNITY

Terrific line-up for Business & Community Expo! Friday’s line-up The Castlerea Enterprise Town Business & Community Expo will open tomorrow (Friday 9th) from 5 pm to 9 pm. A great evening’s schedule has been arranged and while there will be an emphasis on business, there will also be an emphasis on fun and community spirit. Over 100 businesses will display their products on the evening. Proceedings will begin at 5 pm when Sean Beirne, Manager, Bank of Ireland, Castlerea formally welcomes everybody. Mr. Beirne’s opening remarks will be followed by a Christmas Blessing by Fr. John McManus, PP. At 5.10 pm a Panel Discussion on the following topic:

‘Supports available to Business & Community Groups’ will feature Louise Ward of Roscommon LEO, Martina Earley of Roscommon LEADER, and Kathleen McNulty, Galway/Roscommon Enterprise Training Board. At approximately 5.25 pm a very special guest will arrive – Santa Claus all the way from the North Pole!

At 5.40 pm, the official opening/launch of Castlerea Food Hub will be performed by Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment. This will be followed by the launch of Castlerea.ie, a new website which will showcase the town! Following some musical entertainment by the Castlerea Brass & Reed

Band, renowned chef Rachel Allen will address guests. The ‘Great Castlerea Bake-off’ – featuring Rachel and Castlerea Community School – will follow at 6.30 pm. At 7 pm there’s a Milestone Birthday celebration and the businesses and community groups being honoured are Castlerea Mart, Benny’s Deli, Castlerea Prison, St. Kevin’s

Cracking panel set for ‘Fireside Chat Friday evening’s ‘Fireside Chat’ will feature some very prominent guests and is chaired by Roscommon People Managing Editor, Paul Healy. Taking part will be Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan, MEP; journalist and author, John Waters; Nora Fahy of Roscommon Women’s Network; Kevin McStay, the manager of the Roscommon senior football team and Celine Finnerty, HR Manager, Harmac. This event kicks off at 8.30 pm and is one not to be missed!

Ladies GAA, Gaynor’s, Bombay Palace, Hester’s, Castlerea Drama Group, Glinsk Pioneers, Roscommon & District Soccer and Roscommon Association supporting people with Special Needs. At 7.20 pm ‘Showcasing our Local Schools’ will highlight the excellent education facilities available in the area. At 7.35 pm there will be an interview with Dr. Greg Kelly on illness prevention and lifestyle advice. Geraldine Connolly, Principal of St. Michael’s School will also be interviewed. This will be followed by music and dance with Castlerea Community School (scheduled for 8.15 pm). ‘A Fireside Chat’ discussion panel will precede music from Castlerea Musical Society and local talent. The Friday evening session is due to close at around 9 pm, with a closing address by Sean Beirne, Manager, Bank of Ireland, Castlerea.

St. Patrick Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Liam Walsh is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

M: 087 6875604 E: liam.walsh@ilfinpp.ie Best wishes to Castlerea Enterprise Town. Showcasing our Community event this weekend Best wishes to Castlerea Enterprise Town. Showcasing our Community event this weekend

Bennys deli Home Bakery, Delicatessen & Restaurant

Main Street, Castlerea

t. (094) 96 20575 e. bennysdeli.com facebook.com/bennysdeli

@Bennysdeli

Best wishes to Castlerea Enterprise Town. Showcasing our Community event this weekend

LYONS

The Square, Castlerea Tel: (094) 96 22856

Castlerea & District Credit Union Limited Benny O’Connell and Seán Beirne pictured outside the Bank of Ireland, Castlerea. Picture: Andrew Fox

Panel to discuss farming challenges A panel discussion on the ‘Challenges facing local Agriculture’ will be an important part of Saturday’s activities at the Castlerea Enterprise Town events. This discussion will be chaired by Sean Farrell, Manager, Bank of Ireland, Castlerea, and his guests will include Brendan Egan, Manager,

Best wishes to Castlerea Enterprise Town. Showcasing our Community event this weekend

Webb’s Butcher

• St. Patrick Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon • Tel: 094 96 20005 • Mob: 086 4094715

Traditional Free Range Woodland Bronzed Turkeys and Webb’s Special Recipe dry cured Bacon • All local Produce • Supporting local farmers

Castlerea Mart; Michael Clogher of Teagasc; Sean Finan, the County Roscommon man who is National President of Macra and Martin Stapelton, IFA Farm Business Chairperson. This panel discussion will commence at 7.50 pm.

Best wishes to Castlerea Enterprise Town. Showcasing our Community event this weekend

Barlow’s Organic Farm Cloonfaughna

Tel. 090 6621926 or 087 7583522

NOW TAKING ORDERS FOR GEESE, TURKEYS AND CHICKENS Poultry killing + plucking service available Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year

OPEN FOR LOANS! Tel: (094) 96 20910 Web: www.castlereacu.ie Local, Loyal, Lending Best wishes to Castlerea Enterprise Town. Showcasing our Community event this weekend

26

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

The Doll House

Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Tel: 087 2201088

Vikki Eves pictured at The Doll House. Picture: Andrew Fox

Vikki unveils The Doll House, The Square, Ballaghaderreen THE SECRET OF VIKKI’S SUCCESS! < MIRIAM KERINS

Carving out a successful and trusted career as a make-up artist, beauty therapist and nail technician does not happen overnight; as London-born Vikki Eves

will tell you. Based in Frenchpark, the busy working mum of two gorgeous little boys, Charlie (8) and T.J. (2), Vikki, who has over 10 years’ experience in working and building up a successful client

base across the beauty industry, this month brings her highly impressive A game to a new location with the launch of her bespoke, spacious, modern and cheerfully decorated boutique salon which is conveniently situated at The Square in Ballaghaderreen and is creatively called, The Doll House. “It’s my one-stop

girly shop because I not only provide make-up, nails and beauty therapy; I also sell accessories such as handbags” says Vikki, who also specialises in providing gel and acrylic nail extensions, body piercing, spray tanning, facials and make-up artistry to her many clients. Well, that covers the beauty part, but what

Best wishes to Vikki on her new venture

Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Tel.: 094 98 62233 • 094 98 62222

KEEPING YOU IN THE PICTURE ALL YEAR ROUND Sales & Service 6 days a week Over 50 years experience in the business

Best wishes to Vikki on her new venture Best wishes to Vikki on her new venture

Murphy’s

TOWEY’S Off-Licence & Deli DUBLIN ROAD, BALLAGHADERREEN

• Tel: 094 98 61116

Connolly CARPETS & FLOORING

Now situated on Pound Street, Ballaghaderreen (across from the Church)

Telephone: 087 1366482 PHARMACY The Square, Ballaghaderreen Telephone: 094

9861967

Over 40 years fitting experience in the trade Best wishes to Vikki on her new venture

about the ‘accessory’ section? “I sell high end clutch bags, jewellery and make-up. In fact a lady from Cork called into me last week looking for a handbag and when she saw I did make-up she ended up having her make-up done too,” said the proud business owner whose doors officially opened on 25th November, catering for a client list that reads like a who’s who as she specialises in taking care of some of Roscommon’s more discerning beauties, i.e. the more mature lady. “I specialise in the more mature woman; which is anyone over the age of 30 to be honest, because skin over 30 years is classed as being mature, but I mostly look after ladies who are 40 plus and I give makeup masterclasses here at the salon,” says Vikki with an enthusiasm that expresses her genuine love for her craft. However, enthusiasm and love alone will not make for success, something that Vikki will attest to, feeling that commitment to continuously upskilling – building on those solid technical abilities as well as her genuine

people skills and business knowledge – is key to running a flourishing enterprise. “I believe my success is down to doing a lot of promotion and lots of extra training – I’m always doing courses because it’s essential you learn different techniques and keep on top of your game. I trained in both London and Dublin and I continuously do other courses too,” says Vikki, who is also someone who can cleverly adapt her specialised talents to meet her clients’ varying needs. However, satisfying your client base is not simply about being an excellent makeup artist and beauty therapist, Vikki has also cultivated and created her personality with lots of positive energy and clearly understands that her clients, many of which are busy working mums like herself, may often need her ‘out of hours’ service; and, recognising that beauty is not a 9 to 5 thing, she said: “I’m very flexible and I will work outside of my normal hours to accommodate clients, especially working mums because I know it can be difficult to juggle everything, especially

at Christmas time when people are busy.” The Doll House also caters for the wonderful world of hen parties, private parties and weddings, and, with each group booking possibly presenting its own fresh set of challenges as revellers, guests and clients will all require a variety of Vikki’s professional tips, she told me: “I specialise in being honest with my clients and I tell them it’s not always about using the most expensive products. You could use budget products from the likes of Penney’s or you could use high end ones from the likes of Mac so long as your own personal skin care routine is good. That’s what’s important… your skin care, and you should make sure you use products that best suits your own skin” advised the very down to earth Vikki who has certainly hit the ground running with her positive, friendly attitude and advice, something we are sure regulars as well as new clients will find both educational and enlightening. So, if you want to get that London look…drop into The Doll House this Christmas.

27

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

The Doll House

Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon Tel: 087 2201088

Get the Golden Ticket to the party season with Vikki’s make-up Christmas Crackers and you like scarlets or reds, keep in mind they can be unattractive on older skin so stick to an orangey red instead. However, mature ladies should stay away from darker colours in general because they shrink lips so go for a nice nude colour with your lip liner. Dark Circle Cover Up: Use a very light cream concealer. I find the So Sue Me one is very good, especially on mature skin as a thick creamy-based concealer can go into fine lines, so stick with a water-based one. Best Anti-Aging Advice: The right makeup technique works wonders. Drink lots of water, and, to be honest I find the cheaper moisturisers that our mothers and grandmothers used like Nivea Blue are up there with some of the best. Making Make-Up go from Day to Night: Use a primer and a fixing spray…a primer is vital!

The Doll House The Square, Ballaghdareen, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2201088 Facebook.com/thedollhousebtq Like us for competitions and offers!! l Gel & Acrylic nail extensions l Shellac l Body piercing l Tints l Spray Tan l Facials Experienced Makeup artist Available for weddings, hens & private parties. Highest quality products used.

Check out our range of accessories including highend clutch bags, jewellery and makeup all in store.

Best wishes to Vikki on her new venture

Ballaghaderreen Secondhand Furniture The Square, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon

Telephone: 087 3877410 Everything you want for your home

Best of luck to Vikki, from Helena and all at Go Direct

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DUBLIN ROAD, BALLAGHADERREEN, CO. ROSCOMMON Tel. 094 9861326 Fax: 094 9862568 Mobile: 086 8348011

AND SAVE THOUSANDS ON YOUR NEXT CAR!

In order to make sure your festive make-up looks as fabulous as Vikki’s, we asked her to share a few of her tricks of the trade; you know, the very ones that make us ladies feel as if we’ve just won the lotto and gained exclusive membership to the elite ‘make-up artists club.’ And so, in an effort to give our readers the gift of having their very own ‘golden ticket’ this party season, the Roscommon People advises you all to study and then cut out and keep these Christmas crackers, ‘cos you’ll probably need them for the biggest night of the calendar year…the office party! What are your Top 5 make-up tools, Vikki? 1. Get a stippling brush to airbrush your make-up and to make sure it’s applied evenly.

2. Have a flat brush which is a very small angled brush; essential for giving you neat lines and flicks and clearing up mistakes. It’s all about precision. 3. Get a make-up palate: It’s kind of like an artist’s palate and you should use it to mix your foundation in order to get the right tone for your skin. 4. Always have a clean mascara brush for your eyebrows. 5. Use a primer – I recommend Porefessional primer by Benefit, it minimises the appearance of pores and fine lines and use a fixing spray to make sure your makeup stays put. How do we get the Angelina Jolie Pillow Pout? I’m not a fan of Angelina’s look, she hasn’t really aged that well, but in order to get a pout, apply the lip liner around the lip line rather than on the lip line and apply lipstick. If you’re a mature lady,

godirect.ie

< MIRIAM KERINS

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION John questions Jesus from prison in today’s Gospel – for his disciples’ sake and for ours. He knows that Jesus is doing “the works of the Messiah,” foretold in today’s First Reading and Psalm. But John wants his disciples – and us – to know that the Judge is at the gate, that in Jesus, our God has come to save us. The Liturgy of Advent takes us out into the desert to see and hear the marvelous works and words of God – the lame leaping like a stag, the dead raised, the good news preached to the poor (see Isaiah 29:18-20; 61:1-2). The Liturgy does this to give us courage, to strengthen our feeble hands and make firm our weak knees. Our hearts can easily become frightened and weighed down by the hardships we face. We can lose patience in our sufferings as we await the coming of the Lord. As James advises in today’s Epistle, we should take as our example the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Jesus also points us to a prophet – holding up John as a model. John knew that life was more than food, and the body more than clothing. He sought the kingdom of God first, confident that God would provide (see Matthew 6:25-34). John did not complain. He did not lose faith. Even when bound in chains in his prison cell, he was still sending his disciples – and us – to our Savior. We come to Him again now in the Eucharist. Already He has caused the desert to bloom, the burning sands to become springs of living water. He has opened our ears to hear the words of the sacred book, freed our tongues to fill the air with songs of thanksgiving (see Isaiah 30:18). Once bowed down, captives to sin and death, we have been ransomed and returned to His Kingdom, crowned with everlasting joy. Raised up we now stand before His altar to meet the One who is to come: “Here is your God.” – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club McManus Cup – 1st: T. Murphy & T. Smyth, 2nd: J. Donnellan & J. Halliday, Gross: P. & S. Cooney, 3rd: K. Holmes & J. McGrath. 1st session: M. & A. Costello, 2nd session: M. Molloy & L. Curley. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club 1st: K. Dowd & C. McGrath, 2nd: M. & P. Mellett, Gross: T. Smyth & L. Shine. St. Coman’s Bridge Club North/South – 1st: G. Hoban & M. Fallon, 2nd: B. Maher & J. O’Gara, Gross: B. Wrafter & M. Smyth. East/West – 1st: A. Flynn & N. Hynes, 2nd: M. Hickey & G. Spillane, Gross: K. Dowd & C. McGrath. Ballymurray Bridge Club Section A North/South – 1st: M. Law & S. Farrell, 2nd: M. Hickey & R. Roughneen, Gross: J. Devaney & G. Spillane. East/West – 1st: M. Fallon & M. Mullen, 2nd: M. Quinn & M. Pender, Gross: J. O’Gara & G. Bannon. Section B North/South – 1st: A. Kilduff & M. Fallon, 2nd: B. Jones & R. McDermott, Gross: M. Dolan & J. Walsh. East/West – 1st: K. Blighe & F. Neilan, 2nd: H. Earley & C. Carty, Gross: A. Gaffney & J. Hunt.

FRANKLY

SPEAKING

FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

Say it ain’t so, Pat: Connacht left bristling… I

t’s Monday morning, and, right up to now, the big story for all of us from Creggs, which isn’t too many anyway, was the winning of the Tansey Cup, thereby completing a fairytale football double, when we got the better of a gallant and unlucky Western Gaels team in Athleague on Saturday evening. I’ll come back to that later on, but this morning the world of rugby, and, particularly Connacht rugby, is reeling with the news that their highly acclaimed coach, Pat Lam, is leaving his post with the west of Ireland province, to head for pastures new, with English Premiership club, Bristol. In fact, Bristol are bottom of the Premiership, and it’s possible that by the start of next season, when Lam takes over, they won’t be in the top tier of English rugby at all.

O

f course it all brings into

question the loyalty, or otherwise, of professional players and managers, or coaches, to their respective teams. In fairness to the Samoan international, he

brought Connacht on in leaps and bounds, to the extent that they are the present Pro 12 champions, and no one will ever forget that unbelievable day in Edinburgh when they beat Leinster to claim their first ever major title. Lam spoke of buying in to the culture of Connacht, and of its people, and only a couple of weeks ago he was talking of bringing his team to The Gaeltacht to learn the native language – so, it is fair to say, that it all seems a bit hollow this morning. Or, should we just applaud the contribution he made to us all, as we followed his Connacht side, who, in fairness, played with total courage and commitment, and wish him well as he heads off to a new challenge?

T

he funny thing is that both

reactions are in my head. Firstly I am almost feeling he is letting us all down, but the other side tells me that professional sport has no sentiments, and a man who has a young family must make hay while the sun shines, and

obviously the money on offer from Bristol must make it impossible to turn down.

A

professional coach lives with the pressure of knowing that his livelihood depends on his ability to get results, and, no matter how well you have done in the past, if results go against you, you can very quickly fall out of favour. I imagine Lam will have signed a contract for a few years, and, taking all things into consideration, I think it’s only right to thank him for all he’s done for Connacht rugby and to wish him well in the future.

My nephew, Peter Bracken, who played for Connacht for a number of seasons, also did two years in Bristol, and having gone over to visit him a couple of times while he was there, I can certainly confirm that it’s a very good rugby town, with a great rugby support for what I would now think will again be a top rugby club. The big fear, from our, Connacht’s, point of view is that Lam would come back and try and bring some of his great players here, like Bundee Aki, or our own Denis Buckley, across the Irish Sea to join him in his new mission, but, I suppose it’s all in the future, and we must wait and see.

Toy Show brings out child in Tubridy I have only occasionally watched the Late Late Toy Show, but last Friday night I saw most of it, and, amazingly, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Sometimes Ryan Tubridy gets bad press for all kinds of different perceived failings, but I like him, and think the Toy Show brings out the

child in him, and he gives the impression that he really enjoys it. I know the kids are handpicked, and so we probably get the best of the talent that’s out there, but they all were very good, and it was a great show. The other programme that I saw by total accident last night was Planet

Earth, and it was mesmerising. The photography was sensational. Typical me, though, the first programme I saw was the second last in the series, so, while I will watch next Sunday’s episode, I have to wait, and make sure I stay alive, ‘till next year to catch up with the rest of this amazing series.

Double GAA joy for our local heroes Now that I’ve dealt with the Connacht rugby news, it’s back to Saturday evening, and the Tansey Cup Final, which, as I said, was taking place in Athleague at 4 pm, a throwin time that I found very hard to understand. Now I know it’s hard to sort out all the fixtures, and I have no wish to have a go at the people who do that job, but for someone who works in retail, I would have thought that a seven o’clock throw-in would be more suitable. It would be different if the match was to be played in daylight, but the four o’clock start meant the lights were on from the begining. Anyway, for the second time in a couple of weeks, (don’t tell the boss), the ‘Closed at three o’clock’

sign went up, and off I headed to the Athleague venue, where, it must be said, the Gods smiled on us, and, in an extraordinary finish, we won a game by a point, that we had never looked like winning. I’m sure there’s a Dan Dooner, or Seamus Duke, report on the game somewhere in the paper, but, for us, who have lived off crumbs for so many years, to win the double in the space of six or so weeks, borders on the miraculous, and I have to tell you that the celebrations in Mikeen’s more than did justice to the wonderful achievement. It’s been the type of year we could only dream about, and I’m told there’s a Dinner Dance coming up in January, to honour the team and management, and to thank them for

the great year they have given us. As for Western Gaels, they must still wonder how it got away, and while it’s no consolation to them, so do I. Carmel Rourke claims she prayed for a miracle in the Augustinian Chapel in Galway, at a time we were down by two goals, so I think it’s only right to give her the credit for the victory, as it really had to come down to divine intervention! We are heading into the strange world of intermediate football, both league and championship, and, while it’s a daunting thought, it has to be very exciting for the many young, and some not so young, lads on our team. Here’s to 2017, and hopefully we can acquit ourselves reasonably well.

Ryan Tubridy.

And finally… Finally for this week, the senior citizens, of which I am now one, are holding their annual Christmas Party in Kilbegnet Hall, on this Sunday, 11th of December, and everyone is invited to what is the best day’s craic of the year – loads of food, drink, and music, all free, what more could you want! So hit for the hall, for two o’clock on Sunday afternoon, and have a great bit of fun.

‘Till next week, Bye for now

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Weekend

PEOPLE Mike Hanrahan’s Doorly’s date Doorly’s Bar in Roscommon town will play host to singer/ songwriter, Mike Hanrahan of Stockton’s Wing fame, on Thursday, December 15th at 9 pm (no cover charge). Mike began his career with Maura O’Connell in a duo called Tumbleweed and performed at the first Lisdoonvarna Music Festival. Since then, the Ennis native has recorded many albums and toured with Stockton’s Wing from 1980 until his departure in 1994. Mike has performed and worked with some of Ireland’s best-known artists including Ronnie Drew, Finbar Furey, Paddy Reilly, Johnny McEvoy and Liam Clancy.

FACES AND PLACES

See page 31 – 33

Now Solstice Choir launch Christmas CD! Roscommon Solstice Choir, told the Roscommon People. “Coming after our recent Pride of Place Award success, it’s been a great week or so for us. “Now we’ve launched our new Christmas CD and we hope that people will buy copies and enjoy it! And we’d like to take this opportunity to thank the public for their ongoing support of the choir and to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas.”

< PAUL HEALY

The Roscommon Solstice Choir, who are currently performing a series of festive concerts, launched their Christmas CD last weekend. The launch of ‘Roscommon Solstice Choir – A Christmas Wish’, took place in Rooskey Parish Church on Sunday night. The occasion was the first of five festive concerts which are being performed by the choir, which consists of over 100 members, all of whom give of their time and talent on a voluntary basis. The new CD features a selection of much-loved songs and carols which are sure to delight listeners and create a very special festive mood. It features the Solstice Choir’s versions of ‘When A Child Is Born,’ ‘Oh Holy Night,’ ‘The First Noel,’ ‘Silent Night’ and many more seasonal favourites. ‘Roscommon Solstice Choir – A Christmas Wish’, which is priced at €10, can be purchased from Solstice Choir

members and also at any of the choir’s upcoming concerts. It is a beautiful production and would be an ideal Christmas gift. Since being formed in 2013, this commuity choir has raised over €100,000 for charity, and proceeds from sales of the CD will of course also go to charitable causes. “We had a lovely start to our concert series in Rooskey on Sunday night” James Hoban, Chairperson of

Upcoming Solstice Choir Concerts Remaining concert dates and venues: Friday, 9th of December in Elphin for Elphin Day Care Centre; Sunday, 11th of December in Annaduff, Co. Leitrim for Annaduff Church Fund; Friday, 16th of December in Kilteevan for Crumlin Children’s Hospital, and Sunday, 18th of December in Whitehall, Tarmonbarry for Cloonfower National School. (All concerts start at 7.30 pm sharp).

Plenty of laughs in 2017 at Arts Centre Some of the biggest names in comedy will grace the stage of Roscommon Arts Centre in 2017, with Des Bishop, Conal Gallen, Foil Arms and Hogg and Neil Delamere all set to perform. Following his sell-out show in 2016, comedian Des Bishop brings his new show, ‘One Day You’ll Understand’, to the arts centre on Saturday, 7th of January, 2017 at 8 pm. Des is old enough now to know that when his mom used her favourite expression, “one day you will understand”, that she was often correct. However, sometimes she was just hiding from having to explain the complexities of life. Through laughter, Des attempts to make sense of the world today and life in general. Tickets are selling fast for Des’s show, so don’t delay and book now! Another sell-out star of 2016 was Conal Gallen, so he is back on February 25th with his show, ‘Only Joking’. Conal is one of Ireland’s most loved comics, and this show is packed full of new songs and jokes as well as some fan favourites. The arts centre has the perfect pre-St. Patrick’s Day treat, as Ireland’s top comedy sketch group, Foil Arms and Hog, take to the stage on Thursday, 16th of March.

Described simply as, “pure brilliant”, by renowned Irish comedian, and actor, Tommy Tiernan, the group have over four million hits on YouTube and have sold out five shows at Dublin’s Vicar Street. With regular sketches on RTE, viral comedy hits like, ‘How to Speak Dublin’, and over 70,000 online followers, Foil Arms and Hogg have established themselves amongst the new breed of Irish comedy stars, and Roscommon Arts Centre are thrilled to welcome them to their stage. A huge favourite of Roscommon audiences, Neil Delamere, is at the arts centre on Friday, 21st of April with his latest show, ‘HANDSTAND’. Following sold out shows last year, the master of mirth is back again with his own unique brand of irreverent humour. With his TV show, ‘The Blame Game’, a science comedy series for RTE2 and his radio show on Today FM under his belt, Neil is now returning to where it all started – talking to strangers in rooms for money. For more information on these brilliant acts and to get your tickets now, visit www. roscommonartscentre.ie or contact 090 662 5824 to book tickets.

Conal Gallen.

Foil Arms and Hogg. Des Bishop.

Neil Delamare.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NIGHT LIFE • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS cinema & leisure complex Centre Point Retail Park Roscommon For All Enquiries Tel: 090-6665333 facebook/ C & L plex

Santa to visit PJ’s in Castlecoote There will be a special guest at PJ’s in Castlecoote this Sunday evening, 12th of December. Santa Claus himself will be taking time out from his busy pre-Christmas schedule to visit. He will arrive at 6 pm, so come along and give him a warm welcome.

Week Commencing Friday 9th December

FRI 9th—WED 14th Dec

THUR 15th ‘STAR WARS DAY’

ALMOST CHRISTMAS (12A)

16:30; 18:55; 21:30

13:15; 21:30

ARTHUR CHRISTMAS (G)

12:00 (KMC)

12:00 (KMC)

BAD SANTA 2 (16)

14:30; 21:20

14:30; 21:20

FANTASTIC BEASTS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM 2D (12A)

14:15; 16:20; 21:15

14:15; 16:20

MOANA 2D (G)

12:30; 14:45; 19:20

12:30; 14:45; 19:20

MOANA 3D (G)

14:30; 16:50

16:50

OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY (16)

17:00; 19:10; 21:35

17:00; 19:10; 21:35

ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY 2D (12A)

(OPENING THUR 15TH)

15:40; 18:30; 21:20

STORKS (G)

12:00 (KMC)

12:00 (KMC)

SULLY (12A)

14:10; 19:05

14:10; 19:05

THE EDGE OF SEVENTEEN (15A)

17:00; 19:15; 21:30

17:00; 19:15; 21:30

THE POLAR EXPRESS (G)

12:10 (KMC)

12:10 (KMC)

Telephone: 090 6626225 Saturday 10th December:

Kick The Bucket Blues Band

Hamrock’s Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325

Saturday night, 10th December: Music by

Ballymahon Ramblers Sunday 11th December:

Cara Ceol at 7pm Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Castlerea were Helen Fleming, Ella Fleming, Rachel Leech, Liz Curran, Tuari and Kie Curran. Picture: Andrew Fox

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

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Castlerea were Marese Gill, Rita Connelly and Rebecca Gill. Picture: Andrew Fox

BEER OF THE WEEK! JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Castlerea were Cllr. Michael Creighton and Austin Waldron. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Castlerea were Liam Reynolds, Gerry Hayes, Joe McManus and Pat McIntyre. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

OUT AND ABOUT • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS • LIFESTYLE

Pictured enjoying Assumpta Ward’s retirement party were Mary Molloy and Edel Moran.

31

Pictured at a retirement party for Assumpta Ward in Carthy’s Porterhouse were Paula O’Rourke, Mary and Declan Molloy, Sarah and Cathal Mahon.

Faces & Places Assumpta’s Retirement Party Photographs: Andrew Fox

Pictured enjoying Assumpta Ward’s retirement party in Carthy’s Porterhouse were Katarzyna Domarus, Joanna Wojnowska and Assumpta Ward.

Pictured enjoying a retirement party for Assumpta Ward, held in Carthy’s Porterhouse, were Assumpta’s friends and staff from Molloy’s Bakery in Abbeytown, Roscommon. Pictured at a retirement party for Assumpta Ward in Carthy’s Porterhouse were Katarzyna Domarus, Joanna Wojnowska and Assumpta.

Pictured enjoying Assumpta Ward’s retirement party (from Molloy’s Bakery) in Carthy’s Porterhouse were Nausakki Laki and Assumpta Ward.

Pictured enjoying Assumpta Ward’s retirement party in Carthy’s Porterhouse were Edel Moran, Edel Quinn, Angela Silva and Helena Hughes.

32

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

OUT AND ABOUT • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS • LIFESTYLE

Sandra Shanagher, Kilbride and Marie McAleer, Roscommon Town, at the official launch of the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in the Hodson Bay Hotel.

Hugh Lynn, Brian Carthy and Eugene Lavin, at the official launch of the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in the Hodson Bay Hotel.

Faces & Places

Breege and Martin Duggan, Castlerea St. Kevin’s, at the official launch of the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in the Hodson Bay Hotel.

Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence launch in the Hodson Bay Hotel Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Anthony and Teresa McCormack and Mick Byrne, Roscommon Gaels,at the official launch of the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in the Hodson Bay Hotel.

Pat Compton, Valerie Murray, Brian Carroll and Hugh Lynn, at the official launch of the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in the Hodson Bay Hotel.

John and Ann Marie Mee, St. Brigid’s and Philip Martin, Kilmore, at the official launch of the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in the Hodson Bay Hotel.

Gerry and Phil Emmet, Boyle and Seamus Hayden, Kilteevan, at the official launch of the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in the Hodson Bay Hotel.

Tony McManus, Eamon Campion, John O’Gara and Michael McGuire at the official launch of the Dermot Earley Centre of Excellence in the Hodson Bay Hotel.

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

OUT AND ABOUT • BARS • NIGHTCLUBS • CINEMA • SOCIAL • ARTS • LIFESTYLE

Pictured in McGourty’s were Ann Mannion, Susan Gaynor, Derette Flanagan and Paul Gaynor.

Pictured in McGourty’s were Alan Kelly, Rob Kelly and Padraig Kelly.

Faces & Places McGourty’s, Castlerea Photographs: Andrew Fox

Pictured in McGourty’s were Marie, Michelle, Sheena and James Rogers.

Pictured in McGourty’s were Liam Ryan, Padraig McGurl and Bernie Ryan.

Pictured in McGourty’s were Tom Parsons and Carol Joyce.

Pictured in McGourty’s were Lorna and Pat McGourty.

Pictured in McGourty’s were Seamus Mannion, Annmarie McDonagh and Gerry Flanagan.

Some of the staff from McGourty’s, Castlerea pictured celebrating their 4th year in business.

33

34

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

NewsPeople

Ballinlough woman’s radio documentary on Cpl. Patrick ‘Bob’ Gallagher Kathy Raftery from Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon has produced a radio documentary about Cpl. Patrick ‘Bob’ Gallagher from Ballyhaunis, who died in the Vietnam War fifty years ago next March. The documentary will be broadcast on RTÉ Radio 1 on Saturday, 10th of December at 2 pm.

Frank Morelli & documentary maker Kathy Raftery.

Cpl. Patrick ‘Bob’ Gallagher.

Cpl. Patrick ‘Bob’ Gallagher & General Westmoreland.

Galway Percy French Society in Gaol for a Day! < TOM CURLEY

P

ercy French brought fame to the West Clare Railway from his beleaguered train trip from Dublin, boarding at Broadstone Station at 8.05 am en route to Kilkee to appear in a concert at 2 pm in the West Clare town. Watered weeds found their way into the steam engine outside Corofin, causing the train to drag its way to Ennis station, where it refused to proceed, resulting in a two-hour delay. His performance cancelled, the entertainer sued the Railway Company for loss of earnings, travelling expenses – and personal prestige. At the court case that followed, where Percy French amusingly represented himself, Judge James Durcan, awarding ten pounds in damages, declared in all his years on the bench, this was the most hilarious case he had heard. No such ailments, however, derailed the recent Galway Percy French Society’s train journey from Galway to Dublin to undertake a guided tour of historic Kilmainham Gaol. Arriving at Heuston Station dead on time, the twelve-strong group, led by Society’s Secretary, John Ward, a much-travelled man and walker of many miles, followed the 20-minute autumn sunshine trek through glass and concrete West Dublin to the famous site. Friendly receptionist, Ciara, welcomed the mid-day batch of western ‘prisoners’ to jail and hoping we would enjoy our stay, directed to the bright open door of ‘Waiting Cell No. 4’, to join the other ‘prisoners’ already held there to meet our affable gaoler and guide, David, who would escort us through the more gruesome intersections of the iconic building. The long, dark corridors which we now entered showed the scars of troubled Ireland. On each side, of equal distance, the prison cells, measuring six feet by four feet – with thirty-three feet high limestone walls – were apparent, with metal doors containing florin-sized viewing hole at eye level, while to the right, were copybooksize glass windows, again at cell viewing height. Inside each cell, a plank bed with accompanying chair and low table, of similar discomfort, were visible. Prisoners’ names, possibly the last occupiers, were displayed over many doors. The names of the 1916 leaders, the Pearse

brothers Padraig and Willie, together with Tom Clarke and Joseph Mary Plunkett, caught the eye. The door of Thomas McDonagh’s cell was off the latch for visitors who cared to enter. It was a privilege for the few of us to step inside the cell of one of our revolutionary leaders. The cell of Countess Markievicz from Lissadell in County Sligo, imprisoned for her involvement in the 1916 uprising, is located here. There were no apparent extra residential graces for ladies of her status, or for any women prisoners, of which there were many, in Dublin’s ‘new’ gaol. The cell of County Roscommon Irish Republican, Paddy Moran, from Crossna, is also located in the section of the gaol known as ‘Murderers’ Gallery’. Falsely identified for the suspected shooting of a Lieutenant Officer in Dublin on Bloody Sunday, 1920, Moran, tried and convicted of murder, was hanged in Mountjoy Jail on the 14th March, 1921, aged thirty-three years. Items of his memorabilia are displayed in the nearby Gaol Museum. The long metal stairway, used by the prisoners and their guards over the years, led to the main compound or the new East Wing of the threestorey building. From here, the prison guards on their rotas, kept ‘round the clock watch from the surrounding catwalks on all cells for prisoners’ moods or any ensuing trouble, as morale in Kilmainham Gaol at most times was low. In this new East Wing the upgraded cells of Eamon de Valera and Charles Stewart Parnell are located, the latter exhibiting Parnell’s writing desk, pen holder, book shelves, displaying his political prowess as a Member of Parliament. Eamon de Valera, later to become President of Ireland, was the last prisoner to be released from the gaol in 1924. The short walk outside takes the guided tour to the famous Stonebreakers’ Yard, which, at first viewing, is an awesome sight of near stadiumsize proportions, clustered by handball-high stone walls. At one end wall, the 1916 leaders were taken out, in turns, and executed. A lone black cross, with a flower attached, denotes the tragic spot. At the other end wall, James Connolly, who was wounded at the GPO and hospitalised, was later taken and executed alone in his chair. A black cross again indicates the location. In this yard, prisoners of hard labour

were forced to break stones with heavy sledges, hence the notorious name. The stones were hauled from derelict sites in the city and, when broken, were used for part gaol maintenance, roads and buildings in a developing Dublin. Built in 1796, initially with fifty-two cells, Kilmainham Gaol was officially opened on August 12th of that year with a ceremony led by the High Sheriff of Dublin and attended by dignitaries of the time which included Justices of the Peace from Ireland and the British Isles. One month later, the first batch of State prisoners were admitted. The Gaol’s first Governor was George Dunne, a Head Gaoler from Mullingar Prison, transferred on promotion. Its first gaoler, Robert Ware, known to be a kindly man, was dismissed from his duties following the escape of three prisoners who walked unchallenged through the main door. Through time, Kilmainham opened its doors to common criminals (as opposed to State) which became known as ‘inmates’ delivered by crated cart, or prison van, when available, and locked in holding cells (where visitors are now ‘held’ prior to tour) for days, before being transferred to the keeping cells for the duration of imprisonment, which in many cases, ran into years, depending on the crime committed. Many of these were due for transportation to Van Diemen’s Land, New South Wales and, nearer home, Scotland. On committal, the prisoners were deprived of all personal possessions, bound to a period of silence and given a cell bible. Meals, of three per day, were meagre, many suffered ill-health and depression, in which situations a section of the gaol was allocated for hospitalisation and, often, poor medical treatment. Male and female prisoners were not allowed to come together, either at work or during whatever outdoor recreation was permitted. Of the female prisoners – much lower in numbers than male – that entered, there was one spectacle that temporarily stirred the hard regime of the gaol, when Margaret Scott from Derry gave birth to a son. She was moved on compassionate grounds to a more homespun cell and handed domestic duties – always in the company of her baby boy. Close to Christmas 1816, two unfortunate women from Dublin with

large families, one a widow, the other with a disabled husband, driven to petty theft to provide for seasonal needs, were caught stealing fowl, fruit and vegetables and sent to gaol for two years. Strong rallying support from the local community in The Liberties where they came from, backed by a commendable reference from the local priest, and guarantees of security from the doctor and local butcher, the women were released, having spent a frightening and unexpected Christmas in gaol. During famine times many in similar situations often resorted to such petty crimes in the expectation of a jail sentence as refuge – despite the hardships inside – to escape the widespread poverty on the outside. Unlike modern times, life behind bars in troubled Ireland had little to offer. Despite more than thirty years under various governments, after its closure in 1924, proper restoration of the gaol did not commence until 1960. The building, which became a museum in 1979, was taken over by the Office of Public Works in 1986. The museum has staged many notable events such as (filming of) In the Name of the Father and Michael Collins, and received a National Arts Award in 1992. Now a National Monument, Kilmainham Gaol is a powerful resource in the study of Irish history, yearly hosting over a million visitors and tourists from all over the world. The Galway Percy French Society’s visit to the Dublin landmark proved to be an absorbing and educational odyssey – guide, David, taking us step by step, lectured on another Ireland with detailed and gifted eloquence. A master of his craft. The return journey home was not without its ‘break-down on the way’ as intermittent stops – between stations – had the train one hour late on arrival. Half the time delay of Percy French’s song and storied train journey from ‘Ennis as far as Kilkee’. Another time, another Ireland.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

#rosmas

12-page Shopping Guide

SHOP LOCAL this Christmas

Keep it local this Christmas! A Roscommon Chamber of Commerce & Roscommon People Promotion • Late opening hours • Sunday Shopping

€1,000 VOUCHER GIVEAWAY

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon

#rosmas

€1,000

A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

TEN €100 VOUCHERS

*

to be won by ten lucky readers!

In association with Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and the Roscommon People Roscommon Chamber & Roscommon People

VOUCHER COMPETITION

ENTRY FORM Answers to competition (Find the Roscommon Crest)

The crest appeared in following advertisements: Week One 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________ Week Two 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________ Week Three 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________ Week Four 1: _______________________ 2: _______________________

ONLY ONE ENTRY PER PERSON -------------------------------

Name: Address:

__________________________ ________________________

____________________________________

How to enter

The #rosmas promotion will be published in the Roscommon People between now and Christmas. Each week we will ‘hide’ the Roscommon crest in two of the advertisements published as part of this campaign.

Find the crest… To be in with a chance of winning a €100 voucher, readers must name all eight advertisements in which the crest is ‘hidden’ during the course of this four-week campaign. (Only submit entries after Week Four of campaign, to be published in Roscommon People dated December 16th, 2016). Entries to ‘Roscommon Chamber Voucher Competition’ by 4pm on Saturday, December 17th, 2016. Each entry to include all eight answers, name and address of entrant and a contact telephone number. Entries by post or by hand to Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon Roscommon;; by email to advertising@roscommonpeople.iee advertising@roscommonpeople.i Ten winners will be selected. Each winner will receive a €100 voucher. Vouchers will be redeemable at any Chamber of Commerce business in Roscommon town.

Tel. no: ______________________________

*Vouchers redeemable at any Roscommon town Chamber of Commerce business

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

#rosmas

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Shop local and enjoy festive events! A message from Roscommon Chamber Only 16 more sleeps until Santa visits which means there are only 16 shopping days to Christmas! Whether it’s Santa or shopping you are looking for then come to Roscommon town. We have an abundance of free parking spaces in the centre of town, which are all only a hop, skip and jump from the shops which will be open late and on Sundays in the lead up to Christmas. Come into town and see the beautiful Christmas tree and lights and enjoy the festive window

displays. Roscommon AIB is sponsoring the best Christmas Window Display competition and there is still time for businesses to enter the competition! Contact Edward Donnellan of Donnellan’s Menswear, Oliver McGuinness of McGuinness Pharmacy or Carmel Harlow in AIB to enter the competition. There is also still plenty of time to participate in the Roscommon People Shop Local campaign. Readers can enter the competition to win shopping vouchers so keep an eye out each Thursday in your local paper! If you’ve already got your shopping done and have a bit of energy left, you could take part in the Roscommon Harriers Fun Run on Sunday the 11th of December,

organised in conjunction with the Roscommon Chamber. Entry is free but donations will be accepted on the day for the Christmas Lights Committee. It might give you a bit more of an appetite for a few more days of Christmas shopping! If the Fun Run isn’t for you, then there will be street food, carol singing, stalls on Main Street and music in The Square including the school choir entertaining shoppers outside Bank of Ireland. Bank of Ireland is very kindly facilitating the music in The Square and sponsoring the performance by the Solstice Choir on the 17th of December. Make sure to come into town this Sunday and enjoy all the additional entertainment put on by Roscommon

Chamber and the businesses in Roscommon Town. Check out our website to see what the various businesses have in store for shoppers. Rogue & Co Café is running a free Children’s Christmas Cookie decorating stand while ETL will be decorating and giving away free balloons. Molloy’s of Abbeytown, Rogue & Co., Regan’s of The Square, Gleeson’s Townhouse, The Peppermill and Harrison Café are joining forces with local food producers to put on food stalls. Why not relax and enjoy the food and atmosphere while listening to the music and carol singing in The Square. Also, next Thursday (15th) (weather permitting) Abbeytown

businesses will be organising the annual Abbeytown Street Party in conjunction with Molloy’s Bakery, Vincent Timothy’s Londis, The Abbey Hotel and Bear an Raille. Come along and enjoy the fun!

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Roscommon Town were Cameron and John Clarke. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Roscommon Town were Reina and Maeve. Picture: Andrew Fox

#rosmas Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Roscommon Town were Carol and Annabelle Harney. Picture: Andrew Fox

Follow us on Facebook for fantastic Christmas giveaways

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

#rosmas

Decorating your Christmas Tree ! S P I T P O T – OUR < MIRIAM KERINS

H

ave you ever passed by a house and marvelled at their magical, majestic Christmas tree standing proudly in the window? Me too! Decorating the tree is a tradition in most families, and as the countdown to the big day has now officially begun, we thought we’d offer readers some seasonal advice regarding that time-honoured tradition of decorating that fabulous tree. But first of all, where did that grand old, long-established custom that is putting up the Christmas tree originate? Apparently, it began way back in the 16th century when preacher Martin Luther brought a tree into his house and decorated it with candles. Now this is a fire hazard, so we do not recommend that readers do this. In addition, just to show we’ve done

our research, the first account of an artificial Christmas tree dates back to the 19th century when our German neighbours used goose feathers and dyed them green to fashion a tree. However, for anyone who likes a freshly-cut, delicious pine-smelling Christmas tree as their centrepiece, the advice from garden centres this year is to purchase it early in December…so g’wan, get out now and grab that tree. When you’ve chosen your tree and decided on a location for it in your home, in order to illuminate this magnificent specimen from the inside out, your next step is to add the fairy lights. Begin at the bottom of the tree and work your way up, winding them around each branch, eventually landing at the top. If you’re adding a decorative garland, make sure you’ve got two strands for every foot of tree. (If you’ve got a 10-foot tree, have

20 garlands). Begin at the top of your tree, coaxing the garlands into the branches; this makes the overall look appear less bulky. As you work your way down the tree, allow your garland to fall into gentle, natural, waves. Your final job is to hang the ornaments…or rather, place them. We recommend beginning with your high profile or sentimental ones in order to make sure they’ve got pole position. Your next job is to select your largest ornaments and baubles and place them evenly around the tree; filling them out with smaller ones; however, in order to add balance, place your ornaments close to the tree’s trunk, working outwards to create depth. Finish off the tree with a flourish by adding clip on angels or butterflies; or perhaps some homemade trinkets your kiddies have lovingly made at school. Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

CHRISTMAS HAMPER DRAW Order your home heating oil before 14th December for your chance to win.

. e bills .. xes r o m o N ment boall y a p ff o one able for ls l i a v a w no Channe V T r u o y

For best value in heating oil call Top Oil Roscommon on 094 9870069 or order online at www.top.ie

Terms and Conditions apply. All orders placed between 1st December and 14th December will be entered into our Christmas Hamper Draw. Not available with any other offer. Min order applies.

LARGE SELECTION OF COVER IN STOCK!

www.top.ie TEL: 090-6625573 | 086 2496535 #rosmas

#rosmas

ig olla a N hon S

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

#rosmas

Festive fitness tips with Roscommon Harriers F

itness is one thing that usually suffers over the Christmas holidays. Even the most avid gym goers can lose up to 20% of their fitness over a 4-week period! So, if we kick the runners to the side for the Christmas season, starting back into a fitness regime in January is going to be a lot harder. With that in mind the Roscommon Harriers have been running a free 4week run/walk programme for the past couple of weeks to take people from 0 to 5km on their first inaugural 5km Turkey Trot on December 11th at 4 pm in Roscommon town. The club will also be hosting a number of keep moving classes over the Christmas period to keep Roscommon active. Check out the Roscommon Harriers Facebook page to keep up to date with events.

Personal trainer and Roscommon Harriers head coach, Sinéad Gannon, gave the Roscommon People her festive fitness tips. 1. Plan your training Pick the days that you are going to exercise. Get up early and do it before all your social and family commitments start. 2. Training buddy Arrange to run or walk with a friend so you are less likely to back out of training.

Roscommon Harriers

5k Turkey Trot Sunday, 11th December 2016 at 4.00 p.m. WALK, JOG, RUN FOR FUN! Why not don your Santa Hat and raise money for local charities and get in the Christmas mood!

3. Make it festive There are a number of runs taking place in Roscommon over the festive period: the Turkey Trot on December 11th, Katie Smiles fun 3km cycle/walk on December 17th in Roscommon, the Western Alzheimer’s walk/run on St. Stephen’s Day (26th). Also on St. Stephen’s Day, there are walk/runs on in Creggs and Ballintubber. 4. Think outside the box Plan to meet friends for a walk, cycle or run rather than coffee or cake. 5. Be realistic It is almost impossible to stick to your usual fitness regime over the Christmas. Shorten some of your workouts if you have to. 6. Think of the benefits Even if you haven’t been an avid exerciser over 2016 remember that doing some exercise over the festive period can help to avoid putting on extra weight, reduce stress and give you a head start in the New Year. For those readers looking for a fun way to stay fit in the New Year, Roscommon Harriers will be hosting a new learn to run programme called ‘Commit to Get Fit’ will start on January 2nd for beginners and a ‘Commit to Get Faster’ programme will also start on the same day for more experienced runners.

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Fancy dress optional but encouraged! Run starts and finishes at Gleesons Townhouse, with registration from 2.45 - 3.45 pm

Festive refreshments served afterwards in Gleesons R & R

5k around Rosc ommon Tow n

#rosmas

Spot prizes for the best dressed children and adults (Christmas theme!)

Castlemine Farm sponsors of our main prize of an organic turkey!

Free event with donations accepted on the day for two local causes Blood Bikes West and The Roscommon Chamber Christmas Lights Fund Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Sean Doyle & Sons Ltd ESTABLISHED 1978

• Circular Road, Roscommon • Over 35 Years in Business • Removal of old Windows and Doors #rosmas • All Fitters Fully Insured • Registered for Home Improvement Grants • Timber, PVC, Aluclad and Aluminium Windows and Doors • Double and Triple Glazed • V Welded and Mechanically Welded Frames Roscommon Harriers are holding a 5k Turkey Trot on Sunday December 11th at 4.00 pm in Roscommon town.

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

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

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CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS

Ardcarne Garden Centre #rosmas

‘Bringing a sparkle to homes at Christmas for 30 years’ www.ardcarne.ie

At two great locations: Ardcarne, Boyle Co. Roscommon Tel: 071 966 7091 Lanesboro Rd., Roscommon Town Tel: 090 662 7700

Open Monday to Saturday 9-6pm Sundays and Bank Holidays 12-6pm

#rosmas

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People Wishing you all a very Happy Chistmas and every good wish for the New Year from all at

P. KELLY’S

BAR and LOUNGE CASTLE STREET, ROSCOMMON

#rosmas

Questions of sport…Christmas special Name three sporting personalities you’d like to have at Christmas Dinner? Davy Fitzgerald, Michael Lyster and Willie Hegarty. Choose one sports book you would like to have in your Christmas stocking. ‘The Battle’ by Paul O’Connell. Who is your choice for Sports Personality of the Year? Conor McGregor. If you could have one sporting wish for 2017, what would it be? To go one step forward and win an All-Ireland medal. Time will tell!!

Kelley Hopkins, Athleague and Roscommon camogie star What was your best sporting memory of 2016? Athleague winning back to back county titles and becoming Intermediate Connacht champions. What is your worst sporting memory of 2016? Losing the All-Ireland Club Semi-Final to Johnstown Bridge.

The Field – becoming a Toy Show regular!

#rosmas

< DAN DOONER

ALL LIVE sport shown

#rosmas

Our Christmas Shop, located on Main Street, Roscommon is Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. Pop in to visit us and see your very own field being handmade! The complete Field collection can also be purchased online www.thefield.ie Don’t delay buy your field today!

As seen on the Late Late Show

Follow us on Facebook for all the latest news and offers: www.facebook.com/thefield.ie Order Online at: www.thefield.ie T.: 090 66 21219 |M.: 087 838 0618 |E.: info@thefield.ie Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Late Late Toy Show host, Ryan Tubridy, shares a laugh with Darragh Malone from Co. Down last Friday night.

An innovative toy designed by Roscommon-based company, Class Grass, made its second appearance on The Late Late Toy Show last Friday night. The Field was originally designed by Class Grass owner, Padraic Cuddy, as a toy for his son, Tommy. Tommy had requested his very own field to host his toy cattle and farm machinery. So up stepped Padraic with a homemade model farm complete with hedging and timber gates on artificial grass. In September 2015, Padraic took a leap of faith and started crafting toy fields for the Irish market, using the highest quality artificial grass, timber base structure complete with hedging and timber gates. A novel addition is the inclusion of the field’s own Land Registration Document, allowing you to own your own field! On last Friday’s Toy Show, young Darragh Malone from Co. Down starred as he told Ryan Tubridy a heartbreaking story about his pet lamb, Tara, before expertly demonstrating how The Field works. He rounded off an impressive performance by singing his own version of ‘Hit The Diff’.

Christmas Entertainment in

Beár An Ráille

– The Railway Bar Veterinary Supplies Ros Abbeytown, Roscommon. Tel. 090 6630748. MART BUILDINGS, ROSCOMMON TEL.: (090) 6625900

Christmas Draw NOW ON Prizes galore to be won OPEN: Monday – Saturday 9-6pm Open late Tuesday evening #rosmas

Thursday 15th – A

Taste Of Abbeytown

This is an evening where the busines in Abbeytown are handing our complimentary items such as savoury snacks from Londis, sweet bites from Molloy’s & Hot Mulled Wine from Beár An Ráille – The Railway Bar – 6.00-8.00pm Saturday 17th – Music – Seamus Sunday 18th – Music – Reigning

Duke (DJ)

Day (Two Piece Band)

Thursday 22nd – Christmas Draw (Top Prize, Hamper worth €500) Monday 26th – Music – Odd

Sox Band

(Four Piece Local Band) Friday 30th – Music – Seamus

#rosmas

Duke (DJ)

Monday 1st – Music – David & Blue Tax Band Wishing you all a very Happy Chistmas and every good wish for the New Year

Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Roscommon Town were Ava and Emily Clyne. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

41

#rosmas

TELEPHONE: (090) 66 25117 Email: info@etlgifts.ie Web: www.etlgifts.ie #rosmas

Let’s make 2016 a community Christmas

Klassic Cleaners

#rosmas

Church St. Roscommon Town Tel: 090 6625995

Wishing you all a very Happy Chistmas and best wishes for the New Year

MIRIAM KERINS has some advice on how Roscommon People readers can spread some festive cheer amongst the elderly this Christmas…

D

espite the fact that Christmas FM has begun to broadcast those wonderful, seasonal songs and feel-good, festive stories across the entire country, the office parties have begun, the gifts are being exchanged and the dodgy Christmas jumpers are being worn…guilty as charged your Honour, and Roscommon People readers are spreading festive cheer and goodwill throughout the county, we must remember that not everybody is in a celebratory mood. According to Irish charity ALONE, one in three elderly people live by themselves, many in isolation, in this country. In addition, according to an Age UK survey carried out this week, 26 per cent of people over the age of 75 say they are not looking forward to Christmas due to feeling lonely, depressed and isolated. And, while we know that these feelings can affect every single one of us, no matter what our age, at any time during the year, for whatever reason, it’s a sad fact that those who will feel most vulnerable during the festive season are our senior citizens. So, this year, we at the Roscommon People, your community newspaper, would like to encourage all of our lovely readers to show a bit of care, compassion and community spirit by checking in on your elderly friends, family and neighbours over the Christmas season. Here’s what we suggest you could do… Get out and go visit: Drop in for a cup of tea or better still bring them out for a hot chocolate and help them to do a bit of shopping. And, while you’re at it…buy them a little gift such as warm stockings or a hat, scarf and gloves set, or maybe a nice throw to cover themselves with while they watch the telly. Love Thy Neighbour: Pop a Christmas card into their letterbox and include an invite to

#rosmas

PLEASE HAVE YOUR CLEANING IN EARLY

FREE Customer Draw for 7” TABLET Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Anne Doyle with Brendan Crean and Eithne McGrane pictured at the launch of the ALONE Christmas Campaign “Show an older person you care this Christmas” in The Westin Dublin.

Christmas Day dinner at your house. Hold an Event: Get together with some friends and host a Christmas lunch at your local community hall for those who’ll be spending the festive season alone. Invite the local schoolchildren to put on their nativity play or to sing cheery Christmas carols; and, to inject a bit of humour, see if the local funny guy/gal will practice

his/her material and tell a few (clean) jokes to keep the guests amused. In the evening, you could make your senior guests feel even more included (and appreciated), by asking them to chat with the children about their own personal happy memories of Christmases past; and, if you’re organising games and activities, make sure they’re suitable for all generations.

Questions of sport…Christmas special Ger Dowd, joint Creggs manager, St Brigid’s selector and new Roscommon selector What is your best sporting memory of 2016? Winning the County Junior Football title with Creggs for the first time in 33 years was a great achievement for the village. Also, winning the

Senior County title with St. Brigid’s was hugely satisfying after all the hard work the squad put in. What is your worst sporting memory of 2016? Losing both Club Connacht finals was the low point of the year. Name three sporting personalities you’d like to have at Christmas Dinner. Usain Bolt, Arsene Wenger, Roy Keane.

Choose one sports book from the year that you’d like to have in your stocking? Connacht – The team that refused to die. Who is your choice for Sports Personality of the Year? Rory McIlroy. If you could have one sporting wish for 2017, what would it be? Roscommon to win the Connacht SFC title.

STONECOURT, ROSCOMMON. T.: 090 6627660 OPENING TIMES: Monday – Friday,10.00am. to 6.00 pm; Saturday, 9.00am. - 6.00pm.

Now taking bookings for Christmas

#rosmas

#r os mas

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

#rosmas

“Open for

SUNDAY BRUNCH

Festive Christmas Party Menu €30 - 3 Courses

11am - 5pm, Sunday Dec. 11th & 18th”

December Late Dining Dates: Friday Dec. 16th (fully booked) Saturday, Dec. 17th Wednesday Dec. 21st Thursday Dec. 22nd Friday Dec. 23rd Gather your family together this Christmas with a Rogue Gift Voucher

Phone: 090 66 30077

Questions of sport…Christmas special John O’Mahony, Senator, former Mayo, Galway and Leitrim football manager What was your best sporting memory of 2016? International: Ireland beating All Blacks in Chicago. National: Mayo U-21s winning All-Ireland Final. What is your worst sporting memory of 2016? I got an empty feeling

on the morning of the All-Ireland final replay, when I heard that David Clarke was not starting for Mayo. Name three sporting personalities you’d like to have at Christmas Dinner? Joe Schmidt, Martin O’Neill, Paul O’Connell. Choose one sports book you would like to have in your Christmas stocking. ‘The Battle’ by Paul O’Connell. Who is your choice for Sports Personality of the Year?

The Peppermill Restaurant Golf Links Road, Roscommon Tel: 090 6634980 Email: sean.peppermill@gmail.com OPENING HOURS Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday - 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

2016 Christmas Holidays Closing Christmas Eve, Saturday 24th at 3:00 p.m.

Re-opening Wednesday, 28th December at 9:00 a.m.

Meeting with friends or colleagues for Lunch over the festive season. Why not call us to reserve a table.

Outdoor Catering Available for all 0ccasions Contact Sean: a New Look Unwrapping Year........... ew N e in th

087 9074637 or 090 6634980

Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year #rosmas

Joe Schmidt. If you could have one sporting wish for 2017, what would it be? Two! Mayo to win the All-Ireland Football final and Leitrim to get promotion from Division Four.

#rosmas

A year of questions …Christmas special

Questions of sport …Christmas special

Maria McCahill, Roscommon Town based solicitor from Ballintubber

Seamus Hayden, former Roscommon player

What was the best moment in 2016 in your opinion? I survived first year in sole practice! What was the worst moment in 2016 in your opinion? Trump winning the US election. Who is the Man of the Year for 2016 – and why? Fr. Peter McVerry – for his ongoing work with the disadvantaged youth and homeless in The Capital. Who is the Woman of the Year for 2016 – and why? Clodagh Hawe for reasons that speak for themselves. One person you’d like to hear/see more of in 2017? President Higgins! One person you’d like to hear/see less of in 2017? Donald Trump. You have one wish for 2017. What is it? For all my family and friends to be healthy and happy as nothing else really matters.

What is your best sporting memory of 2016? Connacht Rugby winning v Leinster in the Pro12 final. What is your worst sporting memory of 2016? Roscommon v Galway in the Connacht Final replay in Castlebar. Name three sporting personalities you’d like to have at Christmas Dinner. Mick Galwey, Eoin ‘Bomber’ Liston and Gerry Emmett. Choose one sports book from the year that you’d like to have in your stocking? Roscommon Sporting Legends (being launched this weekend). Who is your choice for Sports Personality of the Year? John Muldoon, the Connacht Rugby captain. If you could have one sporting wish for 2017, what would it be? Roscommon to win Connacht SFC Final.

Tops with

LEFT: Pictured is Conor Timon (Ballinagard Rd., Roscommon), winner of Category ‘Child Aged 7 and under’ in the Roscommon Depot Halloween Colouring Competition. Prize is presented by Gemma Mulligan (Top Oil). RIGHT: Pictured is Orianna Cribbon (The Grove, Kilteevan), winner of Category ‘Child Aged 7-12’ in the Roscommon Depot Halloween Colouring Competition. Prize is presented by Gemma Mulligan (Top Oil).

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

43

#rosmas

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

A time for caring… nurses at Christmas AT WORK… AT CHRISTMAS

T

his Christmas as you tuck into some juicy turkey or pour yourself another Bailey’s, please spare a thought for those workers in the health care professions who must get up and go to work. Across the country, there will be an army of nurses, care staff and other health care employees who will forego the ham and turkey sandwiches and box set binges in order to carry out their vital roles. One such worker is Roscommon town native and current Roscommon Gaels Player of the Year, Bernie Ryan. Bernie works as a nurse in Dublin and says that while Christmas can be fun, it’s also tough to be away from family and friends.

Dan Dooner

“I’ve been a nurse for a year and a half. Last year I worked in Beaumont and it was actually lovely! “We had a full staff present for Christmas because it’s so busy at that time of year. Everyone was quite happy actually so there was a nice atmosphere.” Bernie went on to detail the work involved. Some of the duties involved preparing patients for Christmas visits from family and friends. “I was working in the high dependency unit so it’s usually six dependent patients and we give them their breakfast, meds and we assist them with washing, etc. Duties vary with each patient of course as some are unconscious and some have tracheostomy for example.”

Despite the challenging nature of the work, Bernie said she “loved it” and found it extremely rewarding. Excitement builds over the Christmas period as families and loved ones arrive to visit. Bernie says the nursing staff work hard to ensure that patients are as comfortable as possible. “Of course we assist the patients with washing and getting dressed and ready for the visits. The patients that are able will be made comfortable in a chair so that their loved ones can come and sit around them. There’s a lovely atmosphere and it’s really heartwarming to see families gather together!” The nurses miss their own families, of course, particularly those living further away from their home county. But, as Bernie says, “there isn’t much time to feel sorry for yourself because there’s always work to be done!”

This year will be no different, as the nursing and health care workers of Ireland clock in, carrying out vital work at one of the busiest times of year.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

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TOP: Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Roscommon Town were John, Lyla, Attracta and Zac Rogers. Picture: Andrew Fox

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LEFT: Pictured at the switching on of the Christmas lights in Roscommon Town were Cllr. Tony Ward, Chairman of Roscommon County Council, Jason Carey, Sophie Carey, Nora Ward, Caitlin Carey and Annette Carey. Picture: Andrew Fox Wishing all our customers a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

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45

We’ve got Christmas covered #rosmas

McGUINNESS Cheers! We’re at the Beer and Cider Festival

Pharmacy

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TOP: Pictured at JJ Harlow’s Beer and Cider Festival were Nigel McHugh and Aidan Mulvihill. Picture: Andrew Fox RIGHT: Pictured at JJ Harlow’s Beer and Cider Festival were Emma and Paul Johnson. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas 2016 in Roscommon A joint promotion by Roscommon Chamber of Commerce and Roscommon People

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The Toy Show: Bringing out the kid in all of us!

‘THE FIELD’ FEATURES AGAIN: PAGE 40

ten-year-old. I have to say I was impressed with how he kept the show moving along. ‘You should never work with kids’, they say in the world of showbiz, but in fairness to Tubs, he has it down to a fine art. When we were growing up, the Toy Show was usually on just before we wrote our letters to Santa, which just added to the amount of confusion and indecisiveness in our house. Some of the toys featured on the

< DAN DOONER

Ah The Late Late Toy Show, the official start of Christmas in Ireland! It’s a night for the whole family to gather around the TV and watch Ryan Tubridy hand out freebies while trying to knock some craic out of kids from Crumlin to Curraghroe and everywhere in between. Last Friday night was no different as ‘Tubs’ really got into it, completely in his element while jumping around the set like a hyper

show would make the official list while some were deemed ‘a waste of money’ and cast aside. The toys in the last few years were probably unthinkable 20 years ago. Technology has really taken over and that means added expense for parents across Ireland. Most Santa

letters this year will most likely contain Xboxes and PS4s. However, there are toys currently on the market, which encourage kids to use their imagination and don’t involve a screen of any kind. Apart from ‘The Field’ (which can be found here in Roscommon), the two most interesting segments from last Friday night were ‘Book Nook’ and the parade of assorted bikes, roller blades, scooters, etc. Reading is still

given its own segment and that’s great to see. It was made even better by President Michael D Higgins’ letters to the young readers and Jamie Heaslip’s arrival on set to surprise a young fan. All in all and in spite of myself, I really enjoyed the Toy Show and I hope that as time goes on, the producers continue to push toys that don’t involve expensive consoles or kids sitting for hours in front of a screen. Hopefully, segments like ‘Book Nook’ can inspire wordsmiths like Michael D Higgins long into the future.

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Glenamaddy

Some of the children pictured at Beez Kneez. Picture: Andrew Fox Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Divilly Fuels

Wishing all our customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year from

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Joe 086 2622294 Mike 086 8360159 Wishing all our Customers a Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for 2017

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Our Christmas Preschool Nativity show at Glenamaddy Town Hall Friday, 16th December at 7.00pm

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Garvey’s Pharmacy Glenamaddy

Tel. (094) 9659012 Open Monday - Friday 9.30am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 5pm Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year Thank you for your custom during 2016

*6.17% Apr. Glenamaddy Credit Union Ltd. is regulated by the Central Bank. Terms & Conditions apply

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Glenamaddy Meehan’s Londis Church St., Glenamaddy Tel: 094 96 59081

• Millicano Coffee - Buy 1 get 1 free • Lyons Tea Bags 160 - €5.00 • Kerrygold Butter 1lb - €2.50 • Ben & Jerry ice cream - €3.50 • 12pk Pepsi, 7up, 1 Club Orange cans - €5.00 • Btl Prosecco - €8.99

Whirlwind tour with Hurricane < DAN DOONER

CHRISTMAS OPENING HOURS Christmas Eve 8.00am - 6.00pm Christmas Day closed St. Stephen’s Day 10.00am - 6.00pm Sincere thanks to our customers and friends for their support throughout the year. May the joy and hope of Christmas stay with you for 2017 Wishing all our clients a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

CK Hair Salon Glenamaddy, Co. Galway

Contact Carmel on 094 96 59496 Opening Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 9.30 am - 2.00 pm Thursday, Friday & Saturday 9.30 am - 6.00 pm OPEN SUNDAY ON REQUEST Wishing all our customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

CENTRAL TYRES Creggs Road, Glenamaddy, Co. Galway MOBILE: 086 8668020

Bernie Kelly and Beatie Meehan pictured at Londis, Glenamaddy. Picture: Andrew Fox

The phone was ringing non-stop as photographer, Andrew Fox and I negotiated the hairpin bends between Roscommon and Glenamaddy. It was Helen Dunne, neé Raftery, and she was wondering where we were. As it turned out, we had driven straight past the Glenamaddy Community Development Centre and when we finally arrived, Helen gave us a telling off. “Ye were supposed to be here at eleven!” she said. Fox and myself looked at each other, knowing too well that this was a formidable woman and we had kept her waiting. “Ah Helen, Andrew slept it out, sure he’s flat out lately!” I offered, cowardly. Helen was going to be our host for the next couple of hours as we embarked on a whirlwind tour of Glenamaddy. I say “couple of hours”, but if we had followed Helen’s original

itinerary we’d probably still be there, such is her passion and enthusiasm for all things Glen. Our first port of call was Beez Kneez Early Education Pre-School and Crèche. Helen led the way, shouting: “Close the gate!” behind her. Formidable. The kids had dressed up in their nativity play costumes. Wise men, sheep and a donkey were waiting for us. “Jesus, Mary and Joseph,” I said, in an effort to gather the Bethlehem-bound trio together for a photograph. The kids were very well behaved and even Helen seemed to relax a little. Phew. We soon discovered, however, that Helen doesn’t relax for long, as we were led out the door with sheep and wise men waving goodbye behind us. “Okay we have to call in to Dympna McDermott next,” announced Helen. My only hope was that Continued on page 49–>

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Credit Union wins top awards Glenamaddy Credit Union has received major awards under the International Credit Union Leadership Development and Education Foundation (ICULDEF.org).

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

Wishing you all a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

The ICULDEF was established to assess and reward areas of performance excellence in the entire worldwide credit union movement. The awards were achieved in the Filene category, which generally comprise Britain and Ireland. These awards were granted as a result of a thorough assessment and examination of all the activities of Glenamaddy Credit Union, which serves over 4,000 people in Glenamaddy, Glinsk and Williamstown in East Galway, with offices in all three locations. Glenamaddy Credit Union won the Filene award for excellence in use of media. The credit union was awarded second place in the ‘Achieving Business Growth from Own Resources’, which acknowledged the over 30% prudent growth in its Loan Book. Glenamaddy Credit Union was highly com-

Pictured (l-r): Mary Gannon, Compliance Officer, Bernard Mahe, Chairman, John Murphy, CEO, Mary Geraghty, Credit Officer, Glenamaddy Credit Union Ltd.

mended and awarded third place in the ‘Juvenile Depository Scheme’. CEO John Murphy said that the awards were an outstanding achievement. “I am delighted that such an esteemed international

organisation has identified the areas of performance excellence in Glenamaddy Credit Union and has honoured us with these prestigious awards,” he said. “It is a welcome ac-

knowledgement for the hard work and endeavour by our staff, board of directors and our volunteers, together with the wonderful trust and support we get from our loyal members.”

49

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Glenamaddy

of Glenamaddy Helen! Continued from page 48–> Dympna wouldn’t mind a media circus led by ringmaster Helen. Luckily, she didn’t, and her wide range of stock and Shira jewellery was something to behold. She even told us about the stylish senior citizens in Glenamaddy thanks to her call-outs to local nursing homes. “A bit like myself,” said Helen. “Ah you’re far from there yet,” said I, attempting to make up for our late arrival. “Oh you don’t be giving me the glad eye!” came the unimpressed response. She wouldn’t make it easy on us anyway. We left Dympna behind and made our way to Meehan’s Londis where we sampled some of the finest baking Glenamaddy had to offer, with Beatie and Bernie even presenting us with a treacle cake to take home. Helen said: “You could feed a family of ten with that,” as she gathered up staff members to “meet the media”. I couldn’t help but notice the drinks aisle. Out we went again into the rain with Helen leading the way. After all the free scones, it was only right to give thanks so we popped into St. Patrick’s Church. The Pope smiled down on us as Helen pointed out the beautiful stained glass at either end of the building. If it’s one thing I’ve

noticed about this neck of the woods, it’s the beauty of the churches. Deadlines being what they are, there was no time to sit and enjoy our surroundings and Helen had us back in the car and en route to Glenamaddy Community School. Nigel Cassidy told us all about ‘Oliver’ which is the first production by the Glenamaddy Musical Society in three years. It runs for five nights this year and according to Nigel they’re “set and ready to go!” The Principal, James Duignan, arrived to say hello, as students attempted to scurry to class undetected. We were updated on the progress of Craobh Tom Morrison as the junior members prepare to take Galway by storm with Sean Keane this Friday.

They had recently been rehearsing in Jim Pete’s pub down the road. Two young musicians, Karen Garvey and Anna Smyth, told us all about their preparation for Siansa and recording in Declan Feeney’s. “It took three hours but it was fun,” said Karen. They’ll find out in January if they’ve done enough, but Ms. O’Flanagan seemed impressed: “I listened to the recording, it was brilliant!” she said as the two members of the eight-piece group beamed. On our way back to our starting point, we called into John Murphy in Glenamaddy Credit Union. John and his team were in London recently collecting awards and he seemed upbeat about the local economy.

Carmel Kenny at CK Hair Studio. Picture: Andrew Fox

Anna Smyth, Karen Garvey and Caoimhe Lavin at Glenamaddy Community School. Picture: Andrew Fox

“I’d see a great increase in what we’ve lent out in the last 12 months. This money has a positive impact on the community. We also see businesses like West Bake creating jobs and keeping people local,” he said. John told us that the Credit Union’s lending was primarily based on home improvement and farm improvement, therefore the money stayed in the community and improved it. As well as loans, John and his team offer free Cartell checks with car loans, which provides a measure of security on members’ motoring spending. Before we left Glenamaddy, we called into Raftery’s Oakland where we met Annie Raftery, who was busy preparing dinner. She was disappointed we couldn’t stay but happy to meet us and looked forward to welcoming us back. We also popped in to CK

Hair Studio and Mannion’s Furniture. The only time Helen became a little shy was when we asked her to pose for a photograph with Carmel in the hair studio! We arrived back at the Glenamaddy Community Development Centre where the ladies showed us their biannual production ‘Solas’. A real labour of love, full of local stories and news updates. The GCDC is a busy place offering services to the entire community including CV and interview preparation and an organic gardening project. Helen said: “It’s a hub for the surrounding areas. People will come to you if you’re doing something right!” Difficult to argue with that sentiment. Exhausted, we bid farewell to Glenamaddy promising that we would return soon, albeit a bit more punctual next time!

‘Oliver’ set for Glenamaddy

Gerry Tully, Roscommon soccer official/ Glen Valeting Service

A very special production of The Nativity Play by the children of Beez Kneez Educational Preschool & Afterschool service is scheduled for Glenamaddy Town Hall Theatre next Friday (16th) at 7 pm sharp! Building on the success of previous productions the event is being staged with no admission charge. This is a beautiful, highly entertaining show and the perfect way to start the Christmas season!

Christmas party next Thursday! Glenamaddy Day Care will hold its annual Christmas party next Thursday (15th) commencing at 12 noon with Mass. Elderly people living in the parish are very welcome to come along and join us in the festivities.

What is your best sporting memory of 2016? Shane Long’s goal against Germany. (The goal that won us the world title!). What is your worst sporting memory of 2016? There are a few. However the massive loss of life with the Brazilian soccer plane

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Glenamaddy

Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday:

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Community Centre

newsbriefs Glenamaddy Musical Society presents Lionel Bart’s ‘Oliver’ in the Town Hall Theatre, Glenamaddy today (8th) to Monday (12th). Curtain at 7.30 pm sharp. Booking essential on 086-2045896.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from

disaster. (Chapecoense were awarded the Copa Sudamericana thanks largely to a beautiful gesture by the team they were due to play in the final, Atletico Nacional of Colombia.) Name three sporting personalities you’d like to have at Christmas Dinner? Roy Keane, Paul O’Connell and Martin O’Neill. Choose one sports book from the year that you’d like to have in your stocking? John Fallon’s book, ‘The Team That Refused To Die’. (Detailing

Hip Hop, Bridge & Zumba Indoor Soccer & Badminton Bingo & Lotto Irish Dancing, Unislim, Boxercise & Badminton Meeting & Function Room Available Day Care & Meals on Wheels Monday - Friday For more information call Mary on

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Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Sports Bar ● Live Music

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Tel. (094) 9659087

NEW RANGE OF JEWELLERY JUST ARRIVED SPECIAL OFFERS IN-STORE Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from

Raftery’s Oakland Hotel Glenamaddy Tel: 094 9659065 Connacht Rugby’s revival.) If you could have one sporting wish for 2017, what would it be? The Republic of Ireland to qualify for the World Cup.

Food & Accommodation Available LIVE SPORT ON BIG SCREEN

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Strokestown A very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year from

Antonelli’s

Take-Away & Diner

Strokestown lights < DAN DOONER

Strokestown will host Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus this Saturday (10th) at 8 pm for the official turning on of the Christmas lights. Strokestown is entering the third year of its threeyear Christmas lighting renewal plan, having completely redesigned how it approaches lighting the beautiful heritage town for Christmas in 2014. The town has gone from strength to strength with regard to the Christmas lighting over the last two years and hopes this year will advance the plan even further. “We started in 2014 with a new Christmas tree. It was a big investment at the time but was well worth it in the long run. The impact is absolutely brilliant and everyone was really complimentary of it. It was a slow start but it

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Telephone: (071) 9634467

Silke Cut Hair Fashions

Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Proprietor: Breege Silke

For appointment contact: 071-9633241

Thank you for your support in 2016 A very Happy Christmas to all Open: Christmas Eve 8am - 2pm The wonderful window display at Sheehan’s Pharmacy in Strokestown. Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

& Roller Towel Systems Specialists in: Duvets, Curtains Large Wash & Dry €12 Dry Clean 2 Piece Suit €13

Bawn Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel. (086) 8091336 Thank you to all our loyal customers for your support in 2016

Season’s Greetings from

S t r okestown, C o R o s c o m m o n Sp e c ia li s t s i n t h e f ab r i cat i o n a n d e r e c t io n o f in d u s t r i a l a n d f ar m b u i l d i n g s CE Ce rt if ic a t io n t o EN1090- 1 FPC- EX.C.2

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gave everyone the boost to know we could do more,” said Danny Compton, a local laundrette and dry cleaner owner. “Last year we came on leaps and bounds, getting the castellation completed on the Bawn gates, wrapping the avenue of trees down through the town creating a beautiful boulevard effect and finally getting out ‘Happy Christmas from Strokestown’ signs which we talked about a lot,” explained the local businessman. For Christmas 2016, Strokestown is building on the simplistic and minimalist theme established over the last two years. “We plan to expand the tree wrapping to other parts of the town, mainly on Bridge Street and Elphin Street. This was the real winner last year and garnered the most applause,” concluded Mr. Compton.

‘Keep it Strokestown this Christmas Season’ < DAN DOONER

Strokestown Traders Association is asking Strokestown people to eat, drink and shop locally this Christmas. Mary Snype, a Strokestown-based florist and spokesperson for the Traders Association, says that Strokestown has a great mix of businesses to offer the public with amazing value on offer.

“Strokestown, for a small town, has lots to offer. We have great bars and restaurants for the evening time and shops for the day time. There are several brilliant hairdressers and beauticians in the town also, which is something a lot of towns our size don’t have,” Mary explained. As one of the county’s biggest towns, Strokestown is really rallying with several new businesses

opening since this time last year. For the Christmas period there is little you cannot get in Strokestown, with a great array of quality pharmacies and supermarkets and a fantastic gift shop. “This year the Traders Association is asking people who might not normally think of staying local for their Christmas parties or Christmas gift shopping to give it a try. The businesses in the town

Wishing all our customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

make a really genuine effort to ensure they offer great value to customers, both new and old. You won’t get the personal touch and value you get here in Strokestown anywhere else,” said Ms. Snype. Strokestown Traders Association would like to thank everyone who supports local businesses all year round and wishes one and all a very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

Patsy would like to thank all his loyal customers throughout the year and wish them a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year

Patsy Feehily CURRY, STROKESTOWN

Tel. 071 96 33408 or 086 8197158

•Car Diagnostics • Pre NCT Preparation • Electronic Repairs Strokestown, Roscommon. Phone: 071 9634411 Email: teresa@healthybeings.net

Many Christmas gift ideas in store, Cosmetic Hampers from Trilogy, Seavite, Burts Bees, Dead Sea Magic and many more.

Wishing all our customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

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.”

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Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and a Healthy New Year .

Email: tvappcentre@gmail.com Email

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Strokestown

Seamus would like to thank everyone for their business throughout the year. Wishing everyone a very Happy Christmas a nd Peaceful New Year from ...

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Free Quotations and Advice offered Wishing all our customers and friends a very Happy Christmas and looking forward to seeing you all in 2017

The Hub

Community Cafe & Second Hand Shop Strokestown Tel.: 087 9308 945 Danny Compton (above) and Mary Snype (below) are gearing up for a busy festive period in Strokestown. Pics: Andrew Fox

Wishing all our customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

Jazel HAIR CARE

Church Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Telephone:

071 9634750

BEAUTY CLINIC

Wishing one and all a very Happy Christmas and a Happy & Healthy 2017

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Tuesday, 20th December 10am - 7pm; Wednesday, 21st December 10am - 7pm; Thursday, 22nd December 10am 8pm; Friday, 23rd December 10am 8pm; Christmas Eve 9am - 2pm Re-opening 29th December 10am

Elphin Street, Strokestown

Office 071 9633000 Roscommon Town

Office 090 6625722 EMAIL: eugene.murphy@oireachtas.ie ●

Please phone for appointment ●

Stockists of ENVIRON Skincare

OPENING HOURS FOR BLUSH OVER CHRISTMAS

Jim Mannion (Insurances) Ltd T/A as Mannion Insurances is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas & Prosperous New Year. Thank you for your support in 2016

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Strokestown Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

Cut N Edge Hair Design Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

CALL FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

086 1649570 Follow us on Facebook

The Central Bar

Bridge Street, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon

A year of questions … Christmas special Joanne Hone from Strokestown played Cassie Cooper in Roscommon Drama Group’s recent production of ‘Rumors’. What was the best moment of 2016 in your opinion? The Roscommon Drama Group in conjunction with Solstice Choir put on an amazing production di-

rected by the very talented Tom Costello and Brigeen Fitzmaurice and written by local man Tommy Murray. The events of the 1916 Rising were re-enacted on stage and brought to life. I was very proud to be involved in such an outstanding production and have both my daughters, Aliya and Lucy involved also. What was the worst moment of 2016 in your opinion? I’m spoilt for choice here;

Letter to Santa… Dear Santa,

All Special Occasions Welcome Birthday Parties, Engagement Parties, Anniversaries & Any occasion you wish to celebrate – We’re Here to Help

Call Today (087) 954 0186

A very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year to all our customers and thank you for your custom throughout 2016 from Willie, Bernie & all the Staff

Santa Cla us North Po le

LE BARBER GENTS HAIRCUTS Elphin Street, Strokestown (Opposite CENTRA) Mob: 086 2201427

CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR OPENING TIMES Tuesday, 20th December Wednesday to Saturday, 24th December (Close at 2pm) Senior Citizens Closed: Sunday, 25th December only €5.00 to Thursday, 5th January 2017 Open as usual Friday, 6th January 2017 (10am - 6.30pm) Open:

Merry Christmas and a Happy new year! Thank you all for your custom and support

we have Trump, Brexit, ISIS and Syria – all incredibly negative in 2016. Musically we have lost some legends. But the biggest loss was my all-time favourite artist, David Bowie. Who was mMan of the Year 2016? Tommy Tiernan. He is just so funny. He had a bad 2015 professionally but boy has he turned it around. Who was Woman of the Year 2016?

Deputy Eugene Murphy posts his letter to Santa with a little help from Meave Galvin from Rathcroghan, Co. Roscommon. Pic: Kenneth O’Halloran

Elphin Street, Strokestown

DECEMBER MUSIC LINE UP 2016 David Donnelly Friday 23rd December

Crazy Corner Tuesday 27th December

Slider Wednesday 28th December

Colm Mulligan Saturday 31st December

Slider 6-8.30pm DJ 9.30 pm to 12.30am Thanking All Our Customers for their Support Throughout 2016 Wishing Them a Very Happy Christmas & New Year

Thank you so much for making all my dreams come true in 2016 as I was delighted to get the opportunity to represent the people of Roscommon/ Galway in Dáil Eireann. It has been a very busy year for me and I have been working hard to highlight the needs and represent the views of people throughout the constituency. If you could grant me one wish this year, Santa it would be for dry weather this festive season – please keep the floods away from all the homes throughout Roscommon and Galway and allow people to enjoy their Christmas without fear or worry. As you travel through the skies this festive season

I find Amal Clooney fascinating; she has timeless beauty, fabulous original style and is an accomplished human rights lawyer. And of course she’s married to ‘Gorgeous’ George Clooney. One person you’d like to see/hear more of in 2017? My sister Fiona, she is my best friend and ‘advisor’. She is based abroad and even though we catch up 2-3 times a year, I always want to see more of her. She’s amazing in every

way. What you’d like to see/ hear less of in 2017? Credit card statements! You have one wish of 2017. What is it? Health, happiness and peace for all.

by Eugene Murphy (age 51)

Santa please don’t forget about all the little boys and girls who may be living in hotel rooms or hostels or in different houses this year – make sure your reindeer search for every one of them and leave an extra special present. I know all the boys and girls in counties Roscommon and Galway have written you some beautiful letters this year and I also want to encourage people to post a card or letter this festive season. Such a simple gesture could really bring such joy to so many old, lonely and isolated people in the region and I want you to keep an eye on all of them as you pass overhead. I know you will have a great aerial view from your super speeding sleigh, so as you are passing over

the border of County Roscommon and Westmeath it would also be great if you could sprinkle some magic fairy dust around the Monksland area just to make sure that our current border remains intact! Lastly Santa, I want to extend a special thank you to all my supporters, family and friends over the past year and I wish them all a very Happy Christmas and health, happiness and joy for 2017. Love,

Eugene PS: Santa if you could also see fit to arrange it for St. Barry’s GAA to win the All-Ireland Club Football Championship next year that would really be the icing on my mince pie!

A year of questions … Christmas special Rebecca Compton, Scoil Mhuire/ Strokestown Ladies GAA What was the best moment in 2016 in your opinion? The stand-out moment of 2016 for me has to be Ireland beating the AllBlacks 40-29 in Chicago. What was the worst moment in 2016 in your opinion? For me, the worst moment has to be the untimely death of Munster Head Coach Anthony Foley. The All-Blacks Haka met by Ireland’s figure 8 in Chicago was touching, what a way to remember Foley and the rugby that he played. Who is the Man of the Year for 2016 and why? Conor Murray. His rugby

is simply outstanding and he generously sent one of his Irish jerseys up to Roscommon to acknowledge the only fan at Dublin Airport to welcome the team home from Chicago! Who is the Woman of the Year for 2016 and why? The woman of the year in my opinion is Irish Olympian Annalise Murphy who won silver in Rio earlier this year. One person you’d like to hear/see more of in 2017? A person I would love to hear and see more of is Munster rugby player CJ Stander. The South African has blossomed in an Irish jersey this year. One person you’d like to hear/see less of in 2017? I think its fair to say that there are a lot of people

Strokestown’s Rebecca Compton pictured at Dublin Airport with Ireland rugby stars, Conor Murray and Finlay Bealham.

who would like to hear less of me, especially in school! One person I would like to hear less of though would have to be Katie Hopkins. She is simply rude and cruel. You have one wish for 2017. What is it?

I would love to see Munster bring back some silverware to the south and another Six Nations title for Ireland would be the icing on the cake! Oh and passing the Leaving Cert would be the cherry on top!

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Strokestown

Wishing all our customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

KENNEDY’S

Hay Loft Bar Bridge St., Strokestown Tel: 071 9634384 facebook: kennedyshayloftbar Sunday (evening), 11th December Back by popular demand

Enda Hammer Beirne Saturday, 17th December

Tomás Skelly Wednesday, 28th December

BACK TO THAT

Charity night in aid of The Hub Strokestown Special Drinks Promo - This Week - Pints Tuborg €3 and All Bottled Beers €3 Why not Book your Company Christmas Drinks Party at the Hayloft Complimentary Finger Food. Brilliant Jukebox with Hits from every Era and Genre. Be your own DJ. Organiser to receive Complimentary overnight Stay at Westgate House B&B.

Season’s Greetings from Larissa Pinheiro from Manaus in Brazil is enjoying life in Strokestown and looking forward to Christmas. Pic: Andrew Fox

From the Amazon to Strokestown, in time for Christmas

< DAN DOONER

It’s difficult to imagine someone in South America or Asia locating Strokestown on a map and making a conscious decision to move there. But the universe and fate operate in mysterious ways and there are people from all over the world who now call the welcoming town home. One such resident is Larissa Pinheiro from Brazil, or Manaus, to be precise. For those of you who haven’t heard of Manaus, it’s a city situated in the Brazilian state of Amazonas and is home to two million people…well, one less, now that Larissa has made Strokestown home! Larissa actually wrote an article in Portuguese for a website which features the thoughts of those who have taken part in cultural exchange programmes from Brazil. She offered five reasons why living in Strokestown is so good and she was quick to point them out to me on a recent visit to the town. “The safety is the number one reason – Strokestown is much safer than bigger cities,” she said, before adding: “I feel very welcome here too, people are very kind. It’s not that people from cities are not kind but they are so busy.” Larissa pointed out the fact that people living in cities constantly need to rush in order to make the most of their time whereas there’s a more laid-back feel to

country living – and I agreed. Other reasons Larissa gave as to why Strokestown was a great place to call home were the scenery, local pubs, local events and the cost and quality of life in comparison with the bigger cities. “The landscape is so much better and it’s so green and of course the fresh air too! The local pubs are nicer too with live music and quizzes and people chat more to you. Strokestown has more events too. I really liked the agricultural show – we bought homemade chocolate and muffins there…so nice!” Larissa also pointed out the difference in the cost of living and said that living in Strokestown and indeed rural Ireland, was much better value for money. This is Larissa’s first experience of a country outside of Brazil and although she misses her parents, she is fully intent on creating a life for herself here. She said: “I liked it straight away (Ireland). I didn’t think of the stereotype of living in the countryside – I just find it very peaceful. I feel very safe and happy living here. When I was in Brazil, I never thought of living in the countryside, never mind the countryside in Ireland!” Back in Brazil, Larissa was a teacher but wanted to experience a different country and culture while improving her English. A woman in the agency where she planned her trip recom-

mended Ireland and so Larissa flew to Dublin via Sao Paulo and London. “It was sunny and very bright when I left Brazil, it was so warm because it was summer. When I got off the plane in London, it was so cold. I didn’t have the right clothes – why would I need these clothes in Brazil?” (Laughs). On arrival in Dublin, Larissa sought out an Irish favourite. “I bought winter leggings, a coat, gloves, a hat…in Penney’s,” she said, before adding that she’s since foregone the gloves: “I’m clumsy enough and with the gloves…I’m always dropping things!” (Laughs). Life in Dublin was all brand new for the girl from Brazil before fate took another twist. She met her partner, Emmett Corcoran, and after dating for a while, she decided to move down to Strokestown. From listening to Larissa, it seems like she’s found her home from home. “I can’t imagine living away from Ireland, I can’t imagine going back to Brazil. I’m looking forward to having my house all decorated with a Christmas tree and Santa Claus over there,” she said, gesturing towards the fireplace. The fire – which Emmett’s mother taught her how to light – was heating the entire room. Before arriving in Ireland, Larissa said that barbeques were the only time a fire was required in Manaus.

As for Christmas, Larissa has fond but busy memories of Brazil. She said: “I have a small family (she’s an only child) and I was in charge of the food at Christmas – the rice, chicken, three types of dessert. Me and my granny did everything. I’d sleep at her house and wake up and get the house ready – the cleaning and things like that. Then we’d start preparing the food and by 5.30 pm it would be ready. So shower, hair and make-up and wait for family to arrive.” The pace in Strokestown might be slower but she’s expecting a bigger gathering: “My partner has a big family including three brothers and uncles and cousins!” As for calling home this Christmas, it could prove difficult but Larissa will find a way. “Sometimes it is hard to call using WhatsApp, the network is always busy. I will call the next day, I’ve used video call to surprise my mom before but she started crying!” Larissa’s mother was understandably overcome upon seeing her only daughter for the first time since leaving Brazil. Larissa has been away for one year this week and while she plans on visiting Manaus, she’s planning her future in Strokestown. She gestured around the living room she was in the process of decorating and said: “I’m starting my life here, December 6th is one year since I landed in Ireland. It’s (been) the year of my life!”

Beautiful Christmas Arrangements & Gifts Now In Stock Elphin Street, Strokestown

• Tel: 071 9634 222 • Mob: 087 7793 455

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Tel: 071 96 33195 FOR ALL YOUR BEAUTY + HEALTHCARE NEEDS Open 9.15 - 6pm Mon-Sat

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Rooskey/Dromod Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year

BRANDYWELL - OPEN 7 DAYS Breakfast: 9am - 12pm Lunch: 12pm - 5pm | Á LA CARTE: 5pm - 9pm

B&B also available EMAIL US AT THE BRANDYWELL FOR OUR CHRISTMAS MENU

Music sessions all through Christmas and the New Year Dine & Stay at the Brandywell CALL FOR INFORMATION Check us out on www.brandywell.ie find us on facebook

Now taking bookings for Christmas Parties Main Street, Dromod, Co. Leitrim 071 9638278 brandywelldromod@gmail.com

‘We have big plans for Rooskey!’

Buoyed by the success of Rooskey Heritage Festival, volunteers in the village are redoubling their efforts to develop the area…

< AUDREY HEALY

Joe Rogers has been involved in many organisations in the village of Rooskey over the years and is now very much associated with the Rooskey Town and Country Development Association which was established in the summer of 2015, with the aim of, as Joe puts it, “raising the profile of our village and its surrounds by embarking on projects that would enhance the village appearance and improve its appeal to outsiders.” There are currently seven other people on the committee along with Vice Chairman Joe, comprising of Chairman Gary Meehan, joint PRO Sean Sherwin, joint PRO Andrew Reynolds, Secretary Annette Rogers, Treasurer Ronnie

Duignan, Paddy Joe Nugent and Gerry McMahon. The group meet approximately once a month with funding mainly received from local fundraising activities. Joe says there is great support in the area for the group as evidenced by a recent event. “We just recently had a very successful fundraiser with The Roscommon Solstice Choir and our community have been fantastic. We have also garnered great support from the other community groups including Tidy Towns and Rooskey Development and Social Inclusion while the Heritage Festival Committee have also been very supportive.” One of the biggest projects Joe and his team of hard-working colleagues and volunteers are currently involved in is the restoration of the

Church of Ireland Graveyard in the village. “Phase one has been completed and further works will proceed over the next year to turn this into a memorial park as funds become available. We also hope to embark on the building of a children’s playground, as well as canvassing for general road and footpath repairs and extra lighting for the village itself. “We have also applied for some grant aid, but to date have been unsuccessful, but we are learning quickly and sharply and plan to become a major force in the community!” * Special feature on Rooskey Heritage Festival in next issue of the Roscommon People. BRENDAN’S VOYAGE: Brendan Farrell interview on page 61

Kathleen’s tidy times < AUDREY HEALY

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Office: 071 96 58931 Mobile: 086 807 17 57 Wishing you all a very Happy Christmas and every good wish for 2017 from

Patrick J. Nugent ELECTRICAL Rooskey, Co. Roscommon T: 071 - 96 38034

086 - 2691050 (Enda); 087 8101502 (Ronan); 087 - 2795179 (Paddy) Wishing all our customers a very Happy Christmas and every good wish for 2017 from

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Dromod - Tel: 071 96 38248 Like us on facebook Taking bookings for all family occasions for 2017 – Small and large groups catered for

Music and draws on selected nights

Pictured at Rooskey Heritage Festival earlier this year were Molly Kiernan and John Rogan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Kathleen Moffat has been living in Dromod all of her life and has been on the Tidy Towns Committee since 1970. She says she had “tried to leave many times” but her fellow committee member T.P. Cox “wouldn’t let me” and adds he “wouldn’t dare put anyone else in charge!” It’s been a highly successful and productive year for the beautiful village of Dromod in County Leitrim who once again triumphed in the Tidy Towns Competiton in 2016, achieving 322 points in Category B of the contest and scooping the County Award. Dromod and the Tidy Towns committee, took home a gold medal for their achievements and a proud Kathleen was perhaps always destined to be involved in the midst of the glory. “Well my mother actually originally set up Dromod Tidy Towns back in 1970 and was the first Treasurer and I’ve been involved ever since,” says Kathleen, speaking from her home on Main Street which has been the family home for decades. With the festive season almost upon us Kathleen says that Dromod is gearing up for a busy influx of visitors and much-loved family members who will be returning home for the busy period and the community are pulling out all the stops to make it a Christmas to remember. “Well where we are we’re in the unusual and lucky position that we’re situated between two parishes – Annaduff and Bornacoola – so we have a lot going on in the region,” she says. “We’ll soon be putting the Christmas lights on in the village and the lovely crib which will be beside the foundation and next Sunday will be very special as we’ll have the Roscommon Solstice Choir performing in Annaduff Church.”

Questions of sport …Christmas special Micheál McHugh of Kilglass Gaels – and Roscommon Ladies football stalwart What is your best sporting memory of 2016? Tipperary footballers’ performance against Galway in the All-Ireland quarter-final. What is your worst sporting memory of 2016? McHale Park on Sunday, 17th of July – the Connacht Final replay. Name three sporting personalities you’d like to have at Christmas Dinner.

Kieran Donaghy, Joe Brolly and Rachel Wyse. Choose one sports book from the year that you’d like to have in your stocking? Kieran Donaghy’s ‘What Do You Think Of That?’. Who is your choice for Sports Personality of the Year? Hard to overlook Brid Stack from Cork who won her 11th All-Ireland medal with Cork this year. If you could have one sporting wish for 2017, what would it be? To see Roscommon team in Croke Park on All-Ireland Final day.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Lanesboro and Ballyleague

Christmas greetings from Ballyleague & Lanesboro

Wishing all our customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year Thanking everyone for their custom in 2016. Wishing all a very Happy and Prosperous New Year

ment Great entertain e th line-up during n so a se festive

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ROSIE’S Bar & Lounge

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Christmas Entertainment

Saturday, 10th December: Laurence Hayes Friday, 16th December:

Elvis Tribute Show Saturday, 17th December: Ruby Jukes Friday, 23rd December: Sum Craic Stephen’s Day: Resident DJ New Year’s Eve: Resident DJ Saturday, 7th January: Easy Singles yone a Wishing ever as ceful Christm ea P d n a y p p a H r and New Yea

Primary School is on song! The students of Lanesboro Primary School will host their Annual Christmas Carol Service in St. Mary’s Church next Wednesday (14th), starting at 6.30 pm. The staff and pupils invite everyone to come along to this very special occasion for all the young students of the school.

Variety Show with Community College Rehearsals are presently in full swing for Lanesboro Community College Transition Year students as they prepare for their Variety Concert in St. Mary’s Parish Hall next Thursday (15th). This promises to be a night full of wonderful entertainment. Doors open at 7.30 pm and the show will commence at 8 pm. Admission for adults is €10 and €5 for children.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Lanesboro and Ballyleague

Clarke’s Bar

– Lanesboro –

Steve,Teresa and staff would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year

CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENT Saturday, 17th December: Brian Ross Monday, 19th December: Joe Duffy & Friends Wednesday, 21st December: Traditional Irish Music Session Friday, 23rd December: Jimmy Hussey Monday, 26th December: Joe Duffy & Friends Wednesday, 28th December: Traditional Irish Music Session New Year’s Eve: Disco New Year’s Day: Laurence Hayes

Ballagh National Digital School of

Wishing everyone a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

Tom’s Hackney

Lanesboro, Co. Longford 9 Seater All parties catered for, discos etc CALL FOR ANY OCCASION Tel: Tom Morris 086 8293328

Mark Cullen, Adam Parker and Katie Rohan pictured at Ballagh National School. Picture: Andrew Fox

There are over 3,000 primary schools in Ireland and Ballagh National School, Kilrooskey, Roscommon is in the proud and unique position of being one of only 220 schools to have achieved Digital School of Distinction status nationally. The Digital Schools of Distinction award is a flagship programme to promote and acknowledge best practice and excellence in the use of ICT to deliver the best educational experience for pupils at primary level. It is a nationally recognised award and is accredited by the Department of Education. In Ballagh National School every pupil from Junior Infants to Sixth

Class gets opportunities to succeed in a creative and safe digital environment. On a daily basis technology is integrated into our teaching and cooperative group work sessions. We have a wealth of digital resources and applications which include our school website, interactive whiteboards, ipads, laptops, digital cameras, visualisers and software to enhance pupil learning. To achieve the award the school had to self-evaluate and were externally assessed and validated on fulfilling and excelling in identified criteria within the areas: Leadership and Vision, ICT Integration in the Curriculum, School ICT Culture, Continued

Wishing everyone a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

McGowan

METAL FABRICATION Telephone: 086 8154938

Lanesboro, Co. Longford Wishing all my customers a very Happy Christmas and New Year. Thank you for your custom in 2016. Students from Ballagh National School, Audrey Nolan (teacher) and Ruth O’Connor (principal) pictured recently after receiving their Digital Schools of Distinction Award. Picture: Andrew Fox

Main Street, Lanesboro, Co. Longford Call Salon on 043 33 30936 Late opening until Christmas Re-opening Wednesday 28th December Wishing all our customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year from Joe & Martina at

Top Scifest award for Cloontuskert Cloontuskert National School received the top award at the Scifest hosted by Lanesboro Community College for the second year running. The pupils from 5th and 6th Class were awarded

‘Best Overall Primary School’ at the SciFest Fair recently. The budding young scientists submitted two projects which were selected from Cloontuskert National School’s own

Science Fair which was held before Halloween. Pupils from 2nd to 6th Class all worked in groups and researched, tested and presented innovative Science projects. The two projects that

were selected for the SciFest Fair were awarded the overall award were entitled ‘How and why does yeast rise bread’ and ‘Do different types of water affect the growth and health of plants.’

The judges commended the pupils on the originality of their projects, the huge amount of work they put in and how well they presented their projects to the judges.

Ballyleague Quality Service at Low Prices

Pupils from 5th and 6th Class in Cloontuskert National School with their teacher, Mrs Gallagher (Principal) who were awarded ‘Best Overall Primary School’ at the recent SciFest in Lanesboro Community College.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Lanesboro and Ballyleague

School receives Distinction Award Professional Development, Resources and Infrastructure. The benefits of becoming a school of Digital Distinction include €1,000 worth of printing material for the school, the Digital School flag, an award plaque, a HP wireless printer, as well as technical support and opportunities for networking with other digital schools. In a statement, the school said: “We would like to sincerely acknowledge the assistance we have received from a variety

of people without which this award would not be possible – the staff, pupils, parents and Board of Management of Ballagh National School, who are always willing to embrace new technologies and innovations. We also acknowledge the commitment of our very active Parents Association and local community, whose fundraising efforts and proceeds have always enabled the purchase of the most current technology including laptops and ipads. We would also like

to thank Mr. Noel Sheeran who motivated us to apply for this award. “Becoming a Digital School of Distinction is a tremendous honour for our school and it gives deserved recognition of how the whole school community working together can ensure the use of technology in our classrooms. It impacts positively on pupils’ learning experiences and is highly motivational as we look forward to embracing technology further in our classrooms in the future.”

LEAVY Memorials Lanesborough Est. 1784

Headstones in Granite and Limestone Additional names inscribed Tel: 043 33 21184/ 086 1637808/086 2040154 www.leavysmonumentalworks.com Season’s greetings to one and all from Leavy Memorials

Anna Cox, Ava Brehon and James Cullen use the interactive white board at Ballagh National School. Picture: Andrew Fox

Wishing all our customers a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

Anthony Cox, Ruairi Gibbons and Áine Madden pictured at Ballagh National School. Picture: Andrew Fox

Students from pictured during class at Ballagh National School. Picture: Andrew Fox

Ballyleague Village Renewal & Tidy Towns We’re changing the face of Ballyleague ...with YOUR help .... We would like to thank everyone for their help and support throughout 2016

Working for a cleaner environment Ballyle ague be proud of it, Be part of it ! Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year Wishing one and all a very Happy Christmas and New Year from

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Lanesboro and Ballyleague

Ben would like thank everyone for their custom and support in 2016 and wish everyone a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

Telephone: 086 3352361

Wishing all our residents, their families and our staff a very Happy Christmas and New Year

Stress free loans for busy lives…

Taste of the Lakelands at Christmas! < DAN DOONER

The ‘Taste of the Lakelands’ food festival went down a treat in Lanesboro this year as people flocked to the town to sample some of Ireland’s best food. To celebrate the successful event, Taste of the

Lakelands at Christmas will host will showcase this evening (Thursday 8th) at 6 pm in The Convent B&B and Guesthouse courtyard on Main Street in the town. Come 6 pm this evening there will be a mixture of food and crafts on display along with plenty of

Christmas cheer! Due to space being at a premium at the venue, visitors to the event are asked to come along early. The event will run until 9 pm to give everyone a chance to experience a ‘Taste of the Lakelands’ at Christmas. The organisers of this

new and exciting festival wish to take this opportunity in acknowledging the role of visitors to ‘Taste of the Lakelands’ in making this year’s event a great success. This evening provides the organisers with an opportunity to say thank you and wish supporters a Happy

Christmas in person while enjoying another Taste of the Lakelands extravaganza! All are welcome to come along to The Convent B&B Guesthouse tonight (Thursday) to sample the wonderful food and crafts in a warm, festive atmosphere.

Pictured at the launch of the Taste of the Lakelands Food Festival and World Predator Boat Fishing Championships earlier this year were Philip Gordon, Lough Ree Angling Hub, Caroline Doyle, Rose of Longford, Ciarán Mullooly, Helen Feeney, Lough Ree Angling Hub and Joe McDermott. Picture: Andrew Fox

Savings and loans

Dreaming of a white Christmas? Let’s help you stay out of the red

Christmas Lights committee says thanks The Lanesboro Christmas lights committee has extended their sincere appreciation to all who contributed to the church gate collection last weekend. A total of €786 was raised for the ongoing lighting project. Thanks were also extended to the traders

for their support. If you missed the collection or would like to contribute donations can be made at Joe O’Brien’s or to Mags Gillen. The committee hopes to light up Lanesboro following 7.30 pm Mass on Saturday evening. Wishing everyone a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

Have yourself a merry little Christmas thanks to a loan from us. We’re here to help with all your Christmas needs, with flexible loan options, and no hidden fees or charges. Wishing all our members a Peaceful Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous new year. From all at

LANESBORO BALLYLEAGUE CREDIT UNION LIMITED Lanesboro, Co Longford Phone 043-33 21431 Fax 043-33 21488 Email: info@lanesboroballyleaguecu.ie

Memorial Card Drive in Clarke’s Clarke’s Bar in Lanesboro will play host to the Anthony Healy Memorial 25 Card Drive on Sunday, December 18th at 7 pm. There will be plenty of prizes on offer including full lamb (freezerready) and a memorial trophy sponsored by Terry’s Meats. All proceeds on the night go to the Mayo/Roscommon Hospice and tickets are €10.

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough & Galway

Tel: 090 647 8433 * MOTOR ACCIDENTS

ur ee oour SSee n Column column o in Business page 2

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

59

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Lanesboro and Ballyleague Questions of sport … Christmas special Derek Thompson, Senior Club Chairperson, St. Faithleach’s GAA What is your best sporting memory of 2016? The Irish fans in France at the Euros. So many good stories and videos! (Last summer, we certainly brought the craic to Europe!) What is your worst sport-

ing memory of 2016? Roscommon being in the news for the wrong reasons and the demise of our footballers come championship day. Name three sporting personalities you’d like to have at Christmas Dinner. Kenny Dalglish, Jurgen Klopp, Sergio Garcia. (A very sporting dinner indeed!) Choose one sports book from the year that you’d like to have in your stock-

ing? Read Jim McGuinness. Always a great read. (Jim can be read in The Irish Times or ‘Until Victory Always’, a top stocking filler!) If you could have one sporting wish for 2017, what would it be? For St. Faithleach’s to complete developments on time and within budget! To get promoted from the O’Gara Cup and win a championship! (A busy year ahead in Ballyleague…)

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Wishing all our customers a Happy and Prosperous Christmas and New Year

Grainne graduates… Grainne Thompson from Ballyleague recently graduated from the Athlone Institute of Technology with a BSc in Veterinary Nursing. Grainne also attained the 2016 Graduate of the Year Award. From left to right: Gerry Thompson, Dr. Carol O’Donnell, Head of Department of Life and Physical Science, Athlone IT, Grainne Thompson, Martha Thompson and Caoilfhionn Thompson. Anthony Cox, Ruairi Gibbons and Áine Madden pictured at Ballagh National School. Picture: Andrew Fox

Questions of sport … Christmas special Ciaráin Murtagh, St. Faithleach’s/ Roscommon footballer What is your best sporting memory of 2016? Being named captain of Roscommon. What is your worst sporting memory of 2016? Losing the Connacht Championship Final to Galway. Name three sporting personalities you’d like to have at Christmas Dinner?

Audrey Nolan (teacher) and Ruth O’Connor, Ballagh National School Principal, present the Digital Schools of Distinction Award to 6th Class students Adam Parker and Katie Rohan. Picture: Andrew Fox

I’d invite Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Usain Bolt and Floyd Mayweather Jr. Choose one sports book from the year that you’d like to have in your stocking? Paul O’Connell’s book ‘The Battle’. Who is your choice for Sports Personality of the Year? Andy Murray. (Scottish/British ATP world number one tennis player.) If you could have one sporting wish for 2017, what would it be?

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St. Stephen’s night, 26th December: John

Shannon Wednesday, 28th December: Ciaran Rosney Thursday, 29th December: The Druids - Irish Folk Band Friday, 30th December: Brian Ross

ments Refresh served

New Year’s Eve: John

Shannon (Refreshments served) Sunday, 1st January: Seamus Farrell Monday, 2nd January: Brian Ross

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60

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Longford/Tarmonbarry

Secretary of the Tidy Towns Committee and former councillor Tom Crosby believes that as 2016 draws to a close the region has much to be proud of – and a lot to offer tourists and potential business people who may invest in the area.

‘Tarmonbarry is one of the fastest growing villages in West of Ireland’ We won’t be bypassed, we’ll keep growing and our tourism trade remains our greatest asset, veteran community champion Tom Crosby tells AUDREY HEALY… With two national schools “full to capacity” and two awardwinning restaurants in the village of Tarmonbarry, Secretary of the Tidy Towns Committee and former councillor Tom Crosby believes that as 2016 draws to a close the region has much to be proud of – and a lot to offer tourists and potential business people who may invest in the area. “Well our population has grown dramatically in the last ten years,” Tom says “and we are probably one of the fastest growing villages in the West of Ireland at the moment. We are

also situated just twenty minutes away from what will be the new Center Parcs holiday village in Ballymahon and we hope that this might help bring more people to the area and further enhance our tourism facilities and in particular our new 100 berth marina and other tourist attractions. “We are also one of the only villages in Ireland that won’t be bypassed due to the bridge over the river so that gives us great confidence for the future of the economy and small businesses in the region.” A well-known figure in the locality for many years, Tom resides with his wife Pauline on the banks on the River Shannon and is ideally qualified to appreciate the beauty of the region and speaks highly and affectionately of his home place. He talks with obvious pride of the recent achievement of the Tidy

Durkin’s Jewellers

Towns Committee who have, with the help of local FAS workers and other eager volunteers, witnessed Tarmonbarry grow to attain 5th place in all of Ireland in the Tidy Towns Competition, with 310 points – a mere 17 points behind the national winners. “We could not have achieved this without our eager volunteers,” he stresses “and we should be very proud of the village and all who are involved in the project which is ongoing.” Another positive development in the locality which should be highlighted, insists Tom, is the recent acquisition of the Atlantic Mills factory, which, in its heyday, used to employ over 600 workers. “This business unfortunately closed down some fifteen years ago, but it has recently been sold and is currently

Call in and see our vast collection of

undergoing some restoration work and we would be very hopeful that it might reopen and bring some more employment to the village.” In addition to this Tom has, through his role as Secretary of Tidy Towns, applied for the local Garda station to be given back to the community and used as a base for local groups to gather. “Sadly the Garda station was closed in 2013 and we believe that if it were given back to the village it could be used as a kind of community centre for various groups and associations such as Active Age or for training for educational courses.” From a tourist point of view Tarmonbarry, points out Tom, is “booming” with all of the small businesses doing very well, including the opening of two new crèches, which now cater for up to 100 children.

“We also have a regular bus service going to and from Dublin and to the West of Ireland and to Dublin Airport and we have an array of groups and various bodies in the village including the GAA, Macra na Feirme, the drama group, the boy scouts and the girl guides.” With just over two weeks to go until Christmas Day Tom says the bustling village is gearing up for a busy period with the residents of the region looking forward to welcoming back their nearest and dearest for the big day. “Well unfortunately many of the young people in the parish of Tarmonbarry and Scramogue have had to emigrate in the past but we are expecting big numbers back for Christmas and great celebrations so we’re looking forward to the festivities this year.”

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61

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Christmas greetings from Longford/ Tarmonbarry

NewsPeople

Wishing everyone a Happy and Peaceful Christmas and New Year

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IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA ... Rooskey native Brendan Farrell, who presents a popular daily show from the studios of Shannonside Radio in Longford.

5 mins from Tarmonbarry, Longford Town Co. Roscommon

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Brendan’s Voyage ... into the daily lives of his listeners! Audrey Healy chats with Rooskey native Brendan Farrell, who presents a popular daily show from the studios of Shannonside Radio in Longford… ooskey native Brendan Farrell, who began his broadcasting career on pirate radio over twenty years ago and has been working behind the decks in Shannonside Northern Sound since 1993, has been telling the Roscommon People about his life in radio, his memories of growing up in Rooskey – and why he believes the rural village is still a very active place with a strong community spirit. “Well in many ways as we all know, Rooskey had the life sucked out of it with the loss of Hanley’s factory all those years ago, but its people are determined and resilient and there is loads going on in the region. There’s any amount of talent in Rooskey such as musicians and singers and the likes of Conor Rogers who took on the Kayak Challenge for charity, for example. The goodwill and input of the people is just amazing,” he says. Brendan, who broadcasts the 111 Show on Shannonside Northern Sound every week, and has interviewed many of his favourite entertainers on the programme as part of his work – including, amongst others, Big Tom, Brendan Shine, Paddy Cole, Red Hurley, The Corrs, and the late Ronnie Drew – has come a long way since he was a young lad growing up in Rooskey and has seen many changes in the region but believes himself to be fortunate to have been a child of the 1980s in the picturesque village. Since those early days he has made a name for himself as something of a celebrity in the area, having becoming involved in numerous local activities and insists there is still lots of positivity in a region many have doused with negativity.

R

BEHIND THE MIC’ .... Brendan Farrell in the Shannonside studio.

“Well I recently compered the ‘Annaduff Does Lip Sync Battles’ competition as well as ‘Annaduff Strictly Come Dancing’ which showcased all the local talent. I’m also on the committee of the Rose of Rooskey which took place in Cox’s in Dromod and we had a wonderful time. In mentioning that I have to mention the success of the Rooskey Heritage Festival which is now coming into its third year. What started out as just a few small comments from Enda Beirne on Facebook has snowballed into something huge and brought people from all over the world back to Rooskey and it has certainly put the area back on the map. They’ve even recently launched a calendar (last week) with me on it for the month of February so that has surely been their biggest achievement!” he laughs. “Rooskey,” continues Brendan, “was an amazing place to grow up in the 1980s and though unfortunately a lot of the people from that time have had to emigrate they

have now been able to reconnect to the village through social media and on Facebook and they do like to come back and that connection will never be broken.” As for the demise of Hanley’s factory, Brendan still believes there is hope for a turnaround – and the provision of much-needed employment in the now vacant facility. “We need to get a multinational company back into Rooskey and the water systems are still there, from what I know. A company could operate out of there in quite a short space of time and I would love to see the factory brought back to life. There were a lot of hard workers there, my dad included. Even when there was no electricity, they had to work in the dark through all hours of the night and it certainly needs to be worked on; it’s hard to believe it hasn’t been already in this day and age. It’s a brilliant location – Rooskey is only an hour and a half from Dublin and it is easy for lorries to head off to the port and bring their goods like

they did many years ago and with the River Shannon here we are ideally placed for tourism.” A very important issue for the people of Rooskey at the moment is that concerning young Loughlin Og Burns, the baby son of Loughlin and Amanda Burns, who was born with some of his organs outside his body. Together with a number of other local people Brendan has been actively involved in the organisation of an array of locally arranged events to help raise money to help Loughlin Og and his family on the difficulty journey back to good health. “Loughlin’s date for his operation was recently cancelled but we hope it will be rescheduled soon,” says Brendan, who adds that it is obviously “a very worthy cause.” 2017 is set to be an even bigger year for Brendan who has recently had his first experience of television when he featured on the new country show ‘Keelan’s Country’ on Sky Channel 261, produced by Steve Bloor, himself a native of Slatta! On our little trip down memory lane, Brendan pauses for a moment to remember the many characters and faces he encountered as a young lad growing up in the locality…those he met and befriended – and those he’ll never forget! He mentions a number of characters, including Junior Reilly, Christy Bohan and Bernie Dennigan, and, in Dromod, the wonderfully eccentric man known as Charlie Drake. “It was great to be surrounded by people like that growing up..they were amazing people and they left us with wonderful memories. That generation were one of a kind and we’ll never see their likes again.”

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

PropertyPeople

Luxury all the way at Oldwood! Auctioneers & Valuers

Property Partners Earley, Roscommon are this week offering to the market the 2nd phase of properties located in the Oldwood development, located just off the Athlone Road, Roscommon. John Earley said: “We enjoyed a hugely successful launch of the first phase of this exclusive development, which is one of the first developments to achieve an Arated energy efficiency in every home. All properties in this first phase sold out in a short space of time and viewers were hugely impressed with the level of finish and attention to detail in each of the houses. “With construction now well underway, pre-sales of three-bedroomed semi-detached houses are very strong, and are priced at €176,000. Showhouse viewings

NO. 1 ABBEY ST., ROSCOMMON. TEL 090 66 27003. FAX 090 66 26296 EMAIL info@pathughesauctioneers.com Web: www.pathughesauctioneers.com

New to the Market – For Lease

FORMERLY SPRING GROVE, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON Circa 5,000 sq. ft. Commercial Unit with Office Space. For further details please contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

For Lease at the LANESBORO ROAD, ROSCOMMON Circa 9,500 sq ft unit

‘Sale of the Week’ at Earley’s David Diffley, MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is pleased to announce that they sold an attractive four-bedroomed detached residence including garage located at 12, Grange Manor, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon, this week.

The property was sold for €110,000.John Earley described the property as: “An extremely attractive detached residence which is located in a select residential development adjacent to the village of Tulsk. The property was finished to a superior standard

FORMERLY CONNACHT MOTORS

For further details please contact the office on 090 6627003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

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

FOR SALE 40 Bales of Top Quality Chopped Silage, convenient to Ballyleague. -------------------------------------------------------------------------

URGENLY 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.

12, Grange Manor, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon

throughout and offered spacious living accommodation over two floors. “As a result of this sale and others in the general area, we now require properties of all types for sale in the general Tulsk area for disappointed underbidders and cash clients. Contact John Earley, FIPAV or David Diffley, MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 662 6579, or email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

are by appointment only and in order to secure a property in this phase of construction, early booking is advised.” John added: “Oldwood creates energy savings of as much as 60% per year. While Oldwood’s location is important, what sets it apart is the attention to detail throughout every facet of its design and build. Each property is finished with a luxurious and stylish finish, with sleek fitted kitchens, elegant bathrooms, high efficiency Panasonic Heat Source Pump Air to Water heating systems, triple glazed PVC windows and a warming log burner for the lounge area.” For further details, please contact John Earley, FIPAV or David Diffley, MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email jear-

Top quality lands available at Mullymux John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering, new to the market, a renowned and superior quality dual purpose farm of lands containing approximately 41 acres located in the townland of Mullymux beside Roscommon town. The land comes with the benefit of entitlements and greening payments passing of approximately €2,400 per annum. John describes the farm as one of the finest parcels of quality limestone lands to come on the market recently, in a superb location just off the main N61 Boyle route and only 4km from Roscommon town. 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.

PSRA Licence No. 001350

Cash Customers Available. 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 info@pathughesauctioneers.com

●

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

------------------------------------------------------------------------Pat will be hosting the ANNUAL CHRISTMAS AUCTION for Tisrara Parish this Saturday night 10th December 2016 @ 9 p.m in the Community Centre.

FINAL OFFERS BY 5PM FRIDAY 16th DECEMBER

Loads of Bargains to be got on the night!

Two Bedroom Semi-Detached Bungalow

This week Hughes & Company are reporting that they have for sale an attractive four-bedroomed bungalow at The Walk, Roscommon, which lies on a corner site and has the advantage of a large workshop to the rear. The residence is in excellent condition and located in a prominent position. Accommodation consists of a sitting room, kitchen/dining room with utility, four bedrooms with one en suite and a bathroom. Viewing is highly recommended. Pat is accepting offers in the region of €200,000. For further details please contact the office on 090 66 27003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Two Bedroom Residence on c. 37.11 Acres

KNOCKCROGHERY VILLAGE, CO. ROSCOMMON

MANTUAR & CARRIGEEN, FRENCHPARK, CO. ROSCOMMON

2 Bed semi-detached bungalow In need of modernisation In the heart of Knockcroghery Village Within walking distance to church, shop and all amenities • On a large site • Detached garage to the rear • Mature trees and hedging on boundaries. Price Region: €60,000 To arrange a viewing call Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700

• Prime Residential Farm on c. 37.11 acres • Including two bed residence in excellent condition • Extensive range of outbuildings (suitable for horses) • Lands suitable for grazing or forestry • Tranquil private setting • Located convenient to Frenchpark, Elphin and Carrick-On-Shannon • Front onto Mantua and Breedoge River, accessing Lough Gara. • Viewing Highly Recommended To arrange a viewing call Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700

• • • •

Bungalow on corner site at The Walk, Roscommon

NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE

FOR SALE

RENTALS

• 3-bed semi-detached house, Watervale, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

• 4 bed detached bungalow, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon • 3 bed detached house, Kilmore, Ballygar, Co. Galway (Available from January 2017) Contact the office immediately for information on time and date for viewings.

Attractive townhouse at Bank Gardens This week, Hughes & Company in Roscommon have confirmed that they have an attractive three-bedroomed townhouse for sale at Bank Gardens, Roscommon, which is currently generating a rental income of €7,500 per annum. The property can be sold fully furnished with a sitting tenant if required. Offers in excess of €120,000 will be considered. For more information, contact Pat Hughes on 090 66 27003/087-2411135, or see info@pathughesauctioneers.com.

Plenty of interest in Ardanagh residence Hughes & Company are conforming that a three-bedroomed detached residence at Ardanagh, Roscommon is generating a lot of interest at present. Pat is hopeful of concluding a sale in the coming weeks. Offers in excess of €60,000 are being considered. For more information, contact Pat Hughes on 090 66 27003/087-2411135, or at info@pathughesauctioneers. com.

63

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

PropertyPeople

NewsPeople

PSA Licence number: 001481 PSRA Licence No. 001481

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

NEW TO THE MARKET A QUALITY 5 B/R DORMER STYLE RESIDENCE OF C. 2,045 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

CLOONAGEERAGH, KILROOSKY, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON Price Guide: €100,000 ono to sell

A quality 5 B/R detached dormer style residence standing on a site area of c. 0.88 of an acre. The said property is located in a select countryside location close to Roscommon town and is currently at builders finish throughout thus allowing the would be purchaser to put his/her individual touch to the finish of same. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers for immediate sale. BER: D1. -------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET A 2 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF C. 933 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

GARRAUN SOUTH, BESIDE CREGSS VILLAGE, CO. ROSCOMMON All offers after €70,000 to sell

A most attractive 2 B/R detached residence standing on a beautifully mature site area only c. 1.3 km from the centre of Creggs Village and all amenities. The said residence enjoys spacious living accommodation throughout with the benefit of a large solid fuel stove to assist the oil fired central heating system. Altogether this is a quality property to come available in this select residential area and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers after €70,000 for immediate sale. BER: D2. -------------------------------------------------------------------

Pictured at the Pride of Place Awards ceremony are representatives from Trinity Arts Project, Castlerea, along with Dr. Christopher Moran, Chairman, Cooperation Ireland, Tom Dowling, Chairman of the Pride of Place Committee and George Jones, Chairman, IPB.

County Roscommon celebrates success at 2016 Pride of Place Awards Ceremony At the annual Pride of Place Awards Ceremony on Saturday, 26th of November, two groups from Co. Roscommon were presented with top awards in the competition. Trinity Arts Project, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon took one of the Special awards while Roscommon Solstice Choir took runner-up place in category eight, which is for Communities Reaching out Initiatives. Remarking on the Trinity Arts Project the judges said they had a lovely visit to this fantastic centre, which was a surprise and

a welcome from the moment they walked through the door. They heard a great story of endeavour, enterprise, commitment and a ‘cando’ mentality, which resulted in a fifteen-year journey of hard work and belief and finally success. The group described themselves during a series of excellent presentations as ordinary people doing extraordinary things. The judges believe these people are themselves extraordinary people. The winners of the Pride of Place awards, known affectionately by many as the ‘Com-

munity Oscars’, were announced at the special gala event in Belfast Waterfront Hall in front of an audience of approximately 1000 guests and VIPs with many more people tuning in online to watch the live broadcast of the ceremony. Now in its 14th year, the all-island Pride of Place Awards promotes and celebrates the best in community development and recognises the selfless efforts of people in making their neighbourhoods better places to live, work and socialise.

FINAL OFFERS INVITED A 3 B/R TWO STOREY RESIDENCE OF C. 1,820 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

CARROWCRIN AND CORBO, KILROOSKY, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON Final offers after €65,000 to sell

Property Partners Earley are inviting final offers after €65,000 for this 3 B/R residence standing on c. 0.5 of an acre. The accommodation briefly comprises of a reception Hallway, Sitting Room, Kitchen Sun Room/ Dining room, 3 bedrooms, Utility Room and Bathroom. This home offers any prospective purchaser a unique opportunity to acquire a quality family home that provides all one would require for modern living. Final offers after €65,000 are now invited. BER: E1.

Pictured at the Pride of Place Awards ceremony are representatives from Roscommon Solstice Choir along with Dr. Christopher Moran, Chairman, Cooperation Ireland, Tom Dowling, Chairman of the Pride of Place Committee and George Jones, Chairman, IPB.

64

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

FarmingPeople Castlerea Mart Report 650 cattle on offer this week with trade and prices similar to last week. In the weanlings, the quality calves were in strong demand while with the heifers, a good clearance was reported with demand similar to last week. Breeding stock has noticed an increase in numbers coming on offer with demand and interest increasing. Sample prices – heifers: BB 400kgs €1040 Ch 410kgs €970 Lm 485kgs €1195 Lm 630kgs €1440 BBx 540kgs €1340 Ch 635kgs €1350. Dry cows: Lm 830kgs €1515 Ch 830kgs €1365 Ch 750kgs €1240 Sim 600kgs €1090 Ch 630kgs €1025. Cows with calves at foot made from €1220 to €1800 for a Ch cow and her Lm bull calf at foot. Springers made from €800 to €1390 per head. Runners made from €250 to €685 per head. Weanling bulls: Ch 265kgs €850 Lm 285kgs €815 Ch 400kgs €1250 Lm 480kgs €1205 ch 340kgs €900 Lmx 325kgs €1045. Weanling heifers: Lm 290kgs €805 AA 280kgs €700 Lm 305kgs €900 Ch 305kgs €795 Lmx 400kgs €950 Ch 310kgs €825. Bullock Sale, Monday 28th: 200 bullocks on offer with better demand for the quality store bullocks. Lots made from €300 to €775 with their weight with an average of €509 over paid. Sample prices: Ch 480kgs €1170 Ch 545kgs €1320 Lm 540kgs €1245 Ch 590kgs €1335 Ch 620kgs €1360 Ch 650kgs €1390. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Monday next, the 5th of December with a bullock sale and on next Thursday, the 8th of December with our usual sale of heifers, cows, calves and weanlings. All sales commence at 11 am.

‘Farmers should ensure that they dose for liver fluke’ – Cllr. Connolly In a recent statement, Cllr. Domnick Connolly warned local farmers of the high rates of liver fluke, and advised them to take the necessary precautions. “I have been contacted by a number of local vets in recent weeks who have told me that liver fluke is very prevalent this year, and farmers should ensure that they dose their cattle and sheep. “With the very wet year that we have had, the incidence of liver fluke is much more common than usual, and farmers are reminded to dose their stock to prevent an outbreak of the disease,” Cllr. Domnick Connolly stated. RIGHT: Cllr. Domnick Connolly

John Clarke, Doon, Strokestown, had the Senior Weanling Class winner at the Irish Shorthorn Society Premier Beef Shorthorn Sale at Roscommon Mart, and is pictured here with John Brosnan (Judge) from Killarney. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

John Mullooly, Strokestown, was winner in the Maiden and Junior Heifer Class at the Irish Shorthorn Society Premier Beef Shorthorn Sale at Roscommon Mart, and is pictured here with judge John Brosnan from Killarney. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

ICSA calls for GLAS deadline to be extended ICSA Roscommon Chairman, Ger Grehan, has called on the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed to extend the deadline of December 15th for applications to GLAS III. Mr. Grehan said: “The timeframe for applications for this third tranche of GLAS is far too short, especially at this time of year with short days and bad weather. It puts far too much pressure on both farmers and planners. The application process is a complicated and time consuming one with planners having to walk lands to draw up the different measures applicable to each farm.” Referring to the fact there are only 12,000 places available in GLAS III, Mr. Grehan said: “ICSA believes this is too small a number to accommodate all those wishing

to participate. With the current underspend in Pillar 2, we are calling for a bigger allocation of money to cater for a much bigger number of farmers. The GLAS scheme can be a valuable cash lifeline

for low income farmers on fairly modest basic payments.” Mr. Grehan added: “ICSA would also urge farmers who have a year or two to run in AEOS to consider switching over

to GLAS. This is because when they finish their existing scheme they could lose out on a number of years’ payments. There may not be another scheme opening for a number of years.”

The Roscommon chairman also said he would like to remind farmers to get their planners to consider bringing them in on Tier 1 of GLAS if at all possible.

Pictured are Ray Doyle, ICOS; Henry Corbally, Glanbia chairman; Michael Spellman, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon (ICOS National Marts Chairman) and John McStay, McStay Luby in the Convention Centre Dublin for the 40th ICOS National Conference Better Governance for Better Co-operatives. Pic: Alf Harvey.

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

Friday, December 2nd: Smaller numbers on offer this week. There was a firm trade for heifers with a 92% clearance of lots and average prices of €2.06 per kilo up to €2.44 per kilo. There was a good demand for bullocks with a 96% clearance and an average of €2.10 per kilo up to €2.45 per kilo. Once again this week there was a large entry of dry cows with prices fetching from €1.46 per kilo up to €1.99 per kilo. Sales continue on Friday (9th) with 33 pens of bullocks and 32 pens of heifers on offer and also dry cows. Dry cows made from €680 to €1805. Sample prices: Lim X 965kgs €1805, Lim 725kgs €1440, Lim X 680kgs €1275, Char X 780kgs €1270, Char X 595kgs €1120, Simm 770kgs €1120, Lim 655kgs €1080, FRX 665kgs €875, AAX 635kgs €740. Heifers made from €340 to €715 over. Sample prices: 2 Lim x 495kgs €1210, Char X 570kgs €1200, Char X 550kgs €1180, BBX 425kgs €970, 2 Char X 442kgs €945, AA 485kgs €950, Lim X 430kgs €975, 2 Char X 370kgs €860, Lim 365kgs €860, Simm X 345kgs €820, 3 Char 365kgs €815. Bullocks made from €440 to €863 over. Sample prices: AAX 690kgs €1555, AAX 770kgs €1510, Char

X 565kgs €1280, BBX 545kgs €1275, Lim X 500kgs €1220, 2 Lim X 490kgs €1070, Char X 510kgs €1195, Lim X 510kgs €1170, Lim X 480kgs €1060, Lim X 375kgs €815, Char X 520kgs €1270. Tuesday, December 6th: There were large numbers of weanlings on offer again this week. There was a marked improvement in prices from the previous week. Weanling heifers averaged from €2.44 per kilo up to €3.15 per kilo. There was a flying trade for weanling bulls with prices ranging from €2.50 per kilo up to €3.67 per kilo. There was a strong presence of farmers actively sourcing stock before year end. Springers made from €1000 up to €1920. Final sales for weanlings and suckler cows for 2016 will be held next Tuesday (13th) at 5 pm. Weanling heifers made from €275 to €695 over. Sample prices: BBX 360kgs €1050, Lim X 400kgs €1045, Char X 335kgs €1030, Char x 315kgs €980, BBX 300kgs €925,Char X 275kgs €865, Char X 275kgs €840,Char X 265kgs €820, Lim X 325kgs €800, Simm X 265kgs €750, 2 Char X 252kgs €730, AAX 305kgs €670. Weanling bulls made from €400 to €845 over.

Sample prices: Char X 380kgs €1225, Lim X 480kgs €1100, Char X 365kgs €1095, Lim X 385kgs €1050,Char X 345kgs €1000, Lim X 385kgs €1025, Char X 270kgs €990, BBX 360kgs €970, Char Simm X 370kgs €910, BBX 310kgs €910, BBX 320kgs €900. Springers made from €1000 to €1920. Sheep sale – Wednesday, December 7th: We had a large entry of lambs for sale again this week. The top price for ewe lambs was €112. There was slight dip in trade for the finished lambs with lambs making as high as €106. The trade for cast ewes was back on the previous week. Sales continue each Wednesday at 11 am for lambs and cast ewes. Sample prices - Mixed lambs: 51.1kgs €106, 55.8kgs €106, 53.1kgs €106, 59.6kgs €105.5, 54.3kgs €105, 52.5kgs €105, 54.5kgs €105, 48.18kgs €103, 51kgs €102, 49.4kgs €102, 47.3kgs €102, 50.3kgs €100. Store lambs: 42.6kgs €88, 42kgs €86, 43.9kgs €84.5, 35.7kgs €83, 41.7kgs €82, 37.8kgs €73. Ewe lambs: 47.7kgs €112, 60.6kgs €110, 52.5kgs €105, 48kgs €100, 48.6kgs €101.5, 49kgs €100, 45.6kgs €98. Cast ewes made from €35 to €112 per lot.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

FarmingPeople

IFA marks 50th anniversary of Farmers’ Rights Campaign

(Serving Farmers for over 57 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

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

Christmas Cracker Special Sale of Bullocks & Heifers 35 pens of Bullocks and 36 pens of Heifers on offer Friday, December 9th at 11 a.m Also Dry Cows ------------------Pictured at a Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel, held by Roscommon IFA to mark the 50th anniversary of the Farmers’ Rights Campaign in 1966, were John O’Beirne and Willie John Fitzmaurice. Picture: Andrew Fox

Lambs & Cast Ewes Pictured at a Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel, held by Roscommon IFA to mark the 50th anniversary of the Farmers’ Rights Campaign in 1966, were Elaine and Brendan Egan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Each Wednesday – 11 a.m. Yard opens at 8 a.m. -------------------This Friday, December 9th

Irish Texel Sheep Society West Region Show & Sale of In Lamb Shearling Ewes & Maiden Ewe Lambs Show at 6 p.m. Sale at 7 p.m. ------------This Saturday, December 10th

Lleyn Sheep Ireland Christmas Cracker Elite

Pictured at a Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel, held by Roscommon IFA to mark the 50th anniversary of the Farmers’ Rights Campaign in 1966, were Marie Naughton and Patricia O’Beirne. Picture: Andrew Fox

Show & Sale of In Lamb Ewes & Ewe Lambs Show at 12 Noon Sale at 1 p.m. -----------------------Pictured at a Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel, held by Roscommon IFA to mark the 50th anniversary of the Farmers’ Rights Campaign in 1966, were Breege and Padraig Joyce. Picture: Andrew Fox

Christmas Sales Arrangements Weanlings & Suckler Cows: Tuesday, 13th December Lambs & Cast Ewes: Wednesdays, December 14th & 21st Bullocks, Heifers & Dry Cows: Friday, December 16th

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

Date for your 2017 Diary Speical Sale of Springers & Suckler Cows Pictured at a Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel, held by Roscommon IFA to mark the 50th anniversary of the Farmers’ Rights Campaign in 1966, were Margaret and JP Cowley. Picture: Andrew Fox

Saturday, January 28th at 12 noon Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, January 19th

Pictured at a Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel, held by Roscommon IFA to mark the 50th anniversary of the Farmers’ Rights Campaign in 1966, were Margaret Healy and Jacinta Hanley. Picture: Andrew Fox

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

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

TOM ROGERS Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel. (071) 96 34783 and (071) 96 33344 Pictured at a Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel, held by Roscommon IFA to mark the 50th anniversary of the Farmers’ Rights Campaign in 1966, were John Hanley, Roscommon IFA Chairman, Joe Healy, IFA President, Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Action & Environment, Adrian Leddy, IFA Regional Development Officer and Padraig Joyce, Connacht IFA Chairman. Picture: Andrew Fox

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Find us on facebook

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

JOHN GREENE BALLINASLOE

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

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

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

Aengus Oates Financial Services Plan your future today

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

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

Pictured at a judging event in Roscommon Town for the Bank of Ireland Most Enterprising Town Awards were Bernie Kearney, Mary Leyden and David Creighton. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a judging event in Roscommon Town for the Bank of Ireland Most Enterprising Town Awards were Mark and Declan Molloy. Picture: Andrew Fox

David’s delight as RBK named ‘Accountancy Firm of the Year’ < PAUL HEALY

Russell Brennan Keane are delighted to have won the ‘Accountancy Firm of the Year’ award at the Chambers Ireland In-Business Recognition Awards 2016 this week. The In-Business Recognition Awards, held in the Conrad Hotel, Dublin celebrate Irish businesses by recognising their outstanding achievement in the Irish business community. Winners of the In-Business Recognition Awards were chosen across 22 categories based on the broad criteria of growth, profile of business, range of services and customer care. Hosted by Newstalk’s Vincent Wall, each winner had the unique opportunity to address the audience to give some further insights to their business as they received their award. On accepting the award, David Gleeson – Managing Partner at Russell Brennan Keane – said: “As Ireland’s largest independently branded accountancy firm, it’s a great honour to win in this category and it really means a lot to us, particularly to our talented team that works so hard in providing a firstclass service. “2016 has been a very positive year for the firm having achieved growth in excess of 15 per cent before taking into account two recent mergers in the last 15 months. “We have significantly increased our presence in the Dublin market, recruited highly talented staff and we have just moved into

Russell Brennan Keane are delighted to have won the ‘Accountancy Firm of the Year’ award at the Chambers Ireland In-Business Recognition Awards 2016 this week. Pictured is David Gleeson – Managing Partner – accepting the award.

our new bespoke 10,000 square foot offices in Clonskeagh, Dublin 4. “With plans for further expansion, we are actively recruiting staff in Corporate Finance, Taxation, Corporate Compliance and Audit.

“Finally, we’d also like to thank our clients – without whom we wouldn’t survive – for their business and providing us with the opportunity of working with innovative and forward thinking business leaders.”

‘Roscommon’s favourite local broadband provider’ From

€25/month

Real Broadband for Real Users

Pictured at a judging event in Roscommon Town for the Bank of Ireland Most Enterprising Town Awards were Shane Fleming, Martina Hourigan, Orla Healy and Michael Finneran. Picture: Andrew Fox

Fast, reliable, friendly

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

Pictured at a judging event in Roscommon Town for the Bank of Ireland Most Enterprising Town Awards were Paul Byron, Mena Doherty, Rita and Michael Oates. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 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

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

BOUNCING CASTLES ROSCOMMON CASTLES

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

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.

CHIMNEY CLEANING POWER SWEPT No Mess Reasonable Charge ALSO AVAILABLE FOR POWER WASHING

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

Phone No: (087) 4136355

CLEAN SWEEP

CAREERS CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

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

CARS FOR SALE ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

CHIMNEY CLEANING

< FOR SALE: 2006 Toyota Avensis D4D import with ABS and SatNav. 112,000miles, 1 owner from 11 months old. Very clean car, NCT and taxed until February 2017. Price €3,300 or very nearest offer. Tel: 086 8054205 or 086 7321040.

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

Tel: 087 2798704

CHIROPRACTOR

DENTAL

ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC

Dental Design Studio

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

Latest Chimney Cleaning Technology Suitable for cleaning of: Open fires, Stoves, Insert Stoves & Ranges – No Mess – No Fuss “Just a Clean Sweep” PROFESSIONAL AND RELIABLE SERVICE PLEASE CONTACT: 085 8122407 or roscleansweep@gmail.com For quotation and appointment.

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

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY (Monday to Saturday) Also available in Boyle & Athlone -------Treating all aspects of Foot Pain. Orthotics prescribed

By Appointment Only – Tel 087 2982214 Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

Patrick Lynch Clinical Dental Technician

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

VHI and Laya Covered

Chimney Services

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

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

DRIVING LESSONS

SYL’s

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

DATE CONNEXIONS DO YOU LACK THE CONFIDENCE TO MEET NEW PEOPLE? Why not try positive energy coaching. Learn the law of attraction and have some great nights outs. For more information, contact Marion on 087 4112991.

SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

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

(094) 98 80281/ (087) 2031909

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

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

SPECIAL RATES FOR BEGINNERS AND STUDENTS Gift vouchers now available

Call (085) 1348779

O TOW WI RN T TH EA

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TEL: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

SYL’s School of Motoring

Contact: 085 1348779

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

DOCKERY’S

Learn to drive from approved Driving Instructor

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

COUNSELLING

DRIVING LESSONS

School of Motoring

L

ACCOUNTS

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

Learn to drive with ....

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

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Webb’s Butcher’s 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715.

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 DES KELLY FENCING Over 20 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Cresoted Posts • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on 087 2346364

FORESTRY FORESTRY Thinking of planting land? For more information Contact Frank Nally, SWS Forestry Ltd

087 2348206 Roscommon

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.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Woodchipping • Log Splitting • Tree Surgery • Hedge Cutting

Bernard Conroy Timber Clearance Ltd Tel: 087 2533101 or 090 66 22328 Over 30 years in business WALTER BEGLEY Gardening, Maintenance & Painting Roscommon Town • Indoor & Outdoor Painting • Winter Garden Clean-Up • Power Washing Driveways - Paths • Prepare Lawns for Spring • Hedge Trimming • Planting • Grass Cutting • General Maintenance

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

GARDENING 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

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. Members of IBKCA

● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

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

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

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

KATHLEEN KELLY M.I.R.I.L. • Reflexology • Reiki • Indian Head and Shoulder Massage • Gift Vouchers Available • Evening appointments available

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon

Phone: (086) 3614230

PLANNINGS

LISBROCK BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY

www.lisbrockkennels.ie

www.aobtherapies.com

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

KENNELS

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

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

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs

CONTACT JOHN 086 4679798 PERSONAL AND SOCIAL < GENTLEMAN WOULD LIKE TO MEET lady companion. Roscommon/Athlone area. Please reply to Box No: 945 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic 18 years experience in treating babies to adults Physical Therapy CranioSacral Therapy Medical Dry Needling Prescription Orthotics Pilates – Small Classes Can we help you? Call us today to enquire

Ph. 090 663 0009 Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com We are now located at: 2 Castleview, Castle Street, Roscommon F42 C902

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

086 3482387 moleskin architecture@gmail.com facebook.com/moleskinarch ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of John Kelly for planning permission for the construction of (1) 3 bay slatted house/creep area, (2) Concrete silage apron, (3) Hay storage shed and manure pit, (4) Underground water/effluent holding tanks together with all necessary site services and ancillary siteworks at Lackan, Rahara, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Seamus Dowd & Associates Ltd., Surveyors, Project Managers & Building Consultants. Tel: 090 66 23417 Mob: 086 8546035. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its Public Opening Hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

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

www.morrislohan.ie

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Tommy Ward, intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct a dwelling house with proprietary treatment system and filter unit, and all assoiated site works at Tully, Kilglass, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Moleskin Architecture, Mote Park, Roscommon. Tel: 086 348 2387 E: moleskinarchitecture@ gmail.com

APPLICATION TO ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL FOR A WASTE FACILTY PERMIT Notice is hereby given in accordance with Articles 7 and 8 of the Waste Management (Facility Permit Registration) Regulations 2007, as amended, that Irish Pallet Systems Ltd. of Ballyclare Td. Lanesborough, Co. Roscommon, N39 X678 intends to apply for a Waste Facility Permit at their Ballyclare Td. Lanesborough, Co. Roscommon, facility to process waste timber pallets into wood chip to be utilised on site for creation of heat used by the on-site timber kiln. The application for a waste permit will be made to Roscommon County Council within 10 working days of the date of the notice. The Class of Activity at the site, as specified in the Fourth Schedule of the Waste Management Act, 1996, as amended is as follows: Class R 13 - Storage of waste pending any of the operations numbered R1 to R12 (excluding temporary storage (being preliminary storage according to the definition of ‘collection’ in section 5(1)), pending collection, on the site where the waste is produced). The Class of activity at the site, as specified in Part I of the Third Schedule of the Waste Management (Facility Permit and Registration) Regulations 2007, as amended is as follows: Class no. 10 - the recovery of waste (not mentioned elsewhere in this part of the third schedule), other than hazardous waste or an activity specified in Category 5 of Annex I of council Directive 96/61/EC, where - (a) the annual intake does not_ exceed 50,000 tonnes, and (b) the maximum quantity of residual waste consigned from the facility for onward transport and submission to disposal at an authorised facility shall not exceed 15% of the annual intake.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying for planning permission for revisions to housing development at Oldwood, Ardsallaghbeg, Roscommon. The proposed revisions involve the erection of fourteen no single storey dwelling houses in lieu of twenty no two storey semi detached houses as approved under Planning Register Reference 11/259, on Site Nos 21- 28 incl, 33 – 40 incl and 41 – 44 incl. The proposed alterations do not involve any alteration to internal road network and service provisions as previously approved under PD 11/259. Signed: John Reilly.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Jackie Brennan, am applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for the construction of an extension to my existing dwellinghouse, together with permission to develop the attic space, including the installation of skylights, together with all other ancillary works at Mocmoyne Td., Boyle, Co. Roscommon Signed: Michael Archer (Agent for Jackie Brennan) Archer Consulting Engineers, Mill Road, Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071 9663360 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 We are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of our client Mr. John McCrea, for full planning permission to carry out restoration works to a derelict dwelling; works to include the re-roofing of the structure, an extension to the rear and all associated ancillary works for the site located at Palace Road, Elphin Td., Elphin, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Conlon Consulting Engineering Ltd., CL Building, Racecourse Rd., Roscommon (Ph 090 66 65341) (Agent) info@conlonconsulting.ie This 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.

A copy of the application for the waste facility permit will be available for inspection or purchase, as soon as practicable after receipt by the Local Authority, be available for inspection or purchase at the principle office at Environment Section, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon.

Signed: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd., Engineers & Architects, Galway Road, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Ph (090) 66 34421 Fax: (090) 66 34423 Email: info@ collinsboydeng.com

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of five 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/WANTED 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.

< ONE BED APARTMENT TO LET: The Walk, Roscommon. Fully furnished. Tel: 087 6949253.

PSYCHIC DOLORES PSYCHIC MEDIUM CLAIRVOYANT

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

69

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Classifieds

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

REFLEXOLOGY

TARMACADAM

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

TUITION

REFLEXOLOGY

MIDLAND TARMAC & ASPHALT

TOMMY GILLIGAN

LEAVING CERT HIGHER LEVEL MATHS INTENSIVE 2 DAY REVISION COURSE

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• Tarmac • Asphalt • Paving •Tar Spraying • Chippings Private and commercial houses/businesses Restoration of old mossey drive to new with hot bitchumen sealer

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Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

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SITUATIONS VACANT < PART-TIME STAFF REQUIRED for busy take-away, Castlerea area. Experience required. Tel: 087-9791248 after 12 noon. < BABYSITTER REQUIRED for occasional weekend work. Ballybride/Cloverhill area. Tel: 087 9069173.

SOUS CHEF REQUIRED For busy hotel, bar & restaurant in the midlands Minimun 8 years experience required. Fluent English and a good understanding of European Cuisine. Salary: €30,000p.a. 40 hoursp.w. APPLY TO: Keenans Boutique Hotel, Bar & Restaurant, Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon. Email: info@keenans.ie

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TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible Call car direct

(086) 2714879

HUGH KILDUFF Hackney Service (086) 2479829

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

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TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

Peter Lynch 086 8400002

1 day - €40 2 days - €70

JOHN BEATTIE

Booking deposit required

Cab and Bus Hire

PHONE Lorraine Beirne on 086 3688302

Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

KELLY’S EYE Taxi and Mini Bus hire.

PHONE: 087-2727888. 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.

ROSCOMMON MATHS GRINDS Junior and Leaving Certificate Higher and Ordinary Level Experienced Higher Level Teacher Outstanding results record Limited places still available Contact by phone/text:

– Contact –

Tuesday 3rd January (Paper 1) Wednesday 4th January (Paper 2) 10am - 1.15pm Roscommon Town

TURF, FIREWOOD AND FUEL < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned timber €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. €75 DEAL: 1 tonne logs + 1 tonne turf, 2 bags 20kg coal + 1 free bale briquettes: for €75 delivered • Tonne bags of turf and timber €35 delivered. ALSO PACKAGE DEAL: 1 bale of briquettes, 1 bag of logs, 3 bags of turf, delivered only €10. Price cannot be beaten. Contact Tom: 086 2628439. WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch, Sycamore and Whitethorn. Good price paid. We are safety certified and insured. Phone: 086 2437376. FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Hardwood - Ash and Whitethorn. Tel: 086 2437376. < DECEMBER OFFER: On dry shed stored this year’s turf and dry seasoned hardwood. 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

Lorraine Beirne 086 3688302

OIL BOILER

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

ONLY €80

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Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 96 31880 087 9100477

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Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

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

Contact: 087 6718564

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 CHIMNEY REPAIRS, ROOFING, RE-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. < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Safe electric registered. All work considered. No job too small. Phone Paul on 086 2553153 anytime or email: p0862553153@gmail.com

USEFUL SERVICES < SHANE NAUGHTON ROOFING CONTRACTOR Roofing, slating, tiling, 1st and 2nd fixing and flooring. All aspects of carpentry and building undertaken. Tel: 086 3155329.

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

FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 04/12/2016 FIRST PRIZE €50: Henry S. Byron, c/o Murrays SECOND PRIZE €25: Andy Murray, c/o Murrays THIRD PRIZE €20: Sorcha Lynch, c/o K. Collins 8 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Tom Quigley, Creevy; Hannah Dimambzo, c/o K. Hoare; Michael Finan, c/o K. Finan; David Kilduff, c/o K. Hoare; John Martin, c/o Murrays; Helen Farmer, c/o K. Hoare; Michael Oates, c/o Eight Til Late; Josie Hunt, c/o K. Hoare. 5 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: K. Collins; Tomas and Kirsty; K. Hoare; Kathleen Finan; K. Finan. TOTAL RECEIPTS: €318 TOTAL PRIZES: €200

THANKGIVINGS THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Thank you. A.D. 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 own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. L.F. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. K.E.

THANKGIVINGS PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE For desperate causes... My Saint Expedite of urgent and just causes, please intercede for me with Our Lord Jesus Christ. Succor me in this hour of affliction and despair, my Saint Expedite. You who are a Holy warrior, You who are the Saint of the afflicted, You who are the Saint of the desperate, you who are the Saint of urgent causes, Protect me, Help me, Give me Strength, Courage and Serenity. Hear my plea. ____________ (Clearly express what you want, and ask him to find a way to get it to you.) My Saint Expedite, help me to prevail through these difficult hours, protect me from all those who want to harm me, respond to my plea with urgency. Bring me back to the state of peace and tranquillity, my Saint Expedite. I will be grateful to you for the rest of my life and I will speak your name to all those who have faith. (Now promise to give Saint Expedite a specific offering when your desire is granted.) Amen. (Say one Our Father, one Holy Mary, and make the sign of the cross.) (Be sure to provide the offering you promised if Saint Expedite grants your petition). Thank you. A.K. PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE For a Financial crisis... Here is a prayer for your money emergency. The traditional way to petition Saint Expedite is to take a white and a green candle; carve your name on them lengthwise. Light the candles and continue lighting the candles and praying to him until you receive his answer. Have faith and do not doubt his power or willingness to help you. Pray to Saint Expedite. I call forth the Power and the presence of St. Expedite in my time of financial trouble. I offer my body, heart, mind and soul upon your altar of light. I have faith and trust and complete confidence that you will be my strength in this time of need. Quickly come to my assistance. Bring to me _________ (Clearly express what you want, and ask him to find a way to get it to you.). My financial need is urgent. Be my Light and Guide in this situation so that I may live with peace, love, prosperity and abundance and in the Praise of God. Amen. (Now promise to give Saint Expedite a specific offering if your desire is granted.). St. Expedite I ask for your intercession please. A.K.

THANKSGIVING NOTICES CONTINUED ON PAGE 71

70

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

AtYourService BLINDS

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info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

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Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

CLEANING

WINDOWS/DOORS SHOWROOM:

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JOHN GREENE

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Contact us for further information

091 768 768

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

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

71

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

Appointments/AtYourService AtYourService LOG HOUSES

SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER We are a group company with our head office in Athlone and operating in Dublin, Galway, Cork, Belfast, Manchester and Dubai. We own and operate a number of retail outlets and have multiple large online presences in all regions, see www.layeredapproach.com. We require a Senior Marketing Manager to develop and manage a successful marketing strategy for our international portfolio of retail and online brands. We are entering an exciting new phase of growth and require a candidate who can develop and deliver a strategy that will grow our market share, enhance the reputation of our brands and improve customer experience across multiple group companies. Reporting directly to the CEO, this position provides a unique opportunity to manage all aspects of the marketing mix, from development of brand strategy, to creation of a marketing plan, to hands-on implementation of through-the-line activities. The role will require the delivery of fully integrated campaigns, including management of traditional advertising, production of marketing collateral, directing online advertising, managing sponsorships and all PR activities. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: • Plan, develop and direct a marketing business plan across all brands. • Be the brand guardian, developing a consistent brand strategy and communications message for use across all company brands and all customer and employee touch-points. • Lead cross-functional teams/projects to maximise collaboration and coherence of marketing activities and ensuring consistent delivery of the brand strategy. • Work collaboratively with the marketing and design teams to ensure the brand is interpreted consistently on our website and through all online and offline communications. • Deliver engaging content and drive coordinated communications informed by customer needs, the market environment, previous learnings and our business strategy. • Manage the web and online channels to drive traffic to the website and maximising SEO through content generation and testing, customer engagement and business generation. • Manage the offline channel, maximise media promotions to support key campaigns and utilise PR coverage to help create content and elevate brand perception. • Effectively measure and report on impact of marketing spend. Champion measurement, testing, learning and reporting to demonstrate the value of communications deliverables – ensure that we act on lessons learnt through a test & learn approach. • Travel as required to our various locations. THE CANDIDATE: Educated to degree in a Marketing discipline, you will have 5+ years’ experience within a senior marketing or brand management capacity in a fast paced environment. You should have an excellent strategic understanding of online marketing to include influencer outreach, Instagram, Facebook, Google and email campaigns. You should also have thorough understanding of offline marketing. COMPENSATION: • €45-50k • Permanent full-time role • Flexible working location for the right person • 20 days holidays

PLEASE SEND COVER LETTER AND CV TO: aoife.ryan@fcdm.ie

LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PERSON FOR THE JOB? Have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us!

The local paper! THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON! Telephone: 090 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) is a progressive independent person centred organisation providing services for people with limited mobility nationally. Our mission is to provide exceptional services and other supports that change lives and ensure that people with disabilities are in a position to participate fully and equally in their communities. The Association employs 2,500 staff in every county in Ireland to provide these services.

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We cannot guarantee publication after this time

(Please note that the hours for this position are variable and will be on “when and if required” basis) A full copy of the description is available on www.iwa.ie

Please submit a current CV and cover letter to hr@iwa.ie Closing date for receipt of completed applications is 22nd December 2016. IWA is an equal opportunity employer.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying on behalf of Kilteevan Community Development Group Ltd for Planning Permission to construct a Community Park to include a car park with a new entrance, realignment of existing roadside boundary wall, a play area, all weather pitch, security fencing along the river, a footbridge, walking/running track with various exercise equipment, community garden and lighting columns at Cloontogher Td., Co. Roscommon. Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile: (086) 8167365 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

THANKSGIVINGS NOTICES PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE My St. Expedite of urgent and just causes, please intercede for me with our Lord Jesus Christ, succour me in this hour of affliction and despair my St. Expedite, you who are a Holy warrior, you who are the Saint of the afflicted, you who is the Saint of the desperate, you who is the Saint of urgent causes, protect me, help me, give me strength, courage and serenity. Hear my plea. (Make request). Clearly express what you want and ask him to find a way to get it to you. My Saint Expedite, help me to prevail through these difficult hours, protect me from all those who want to harm me, respond to my plea with urgency, bring me back to that state of peace and tranquillity, my Saint Expedite, I will be grateful to you for the rest of my life and I will speak your name to all those who have faith. Now promise to give Saint Expedite a specific offering when your desire is granted. Amen. Say one Our Father, one Hail Mary and make the sign of the cross. Be sure to provide the offering you promised, if Saint Expedite grants your petition. Thank you so much for everything, for hearing and answering my prayer. Amen. A.H.

PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE For a Financial crisis... Here is a prayer for your money emergency. The traditional way to petition Saint Expedite is to take a white and a green candle; carve your name on them lengthwise. Light the candles and continue lighting the candles and praying to him until you receive his answer. Have faith and do not doubt his power or willingness to help you. Pray to Saint Expedite. I call forth the Power and the presence of St. Expedite in my time of financial trouble. I offer my body, heart, mind and soul upon your altar of light. I have faith and trust and complete confidence that you will be my strength in this time of need. Quickly come to my assistance. Bring to me _________ (Clearly express what you want, and ask him to find a way to get it to you.). My financial need is urgent. Be my Light and Guide in this situation so that I may live with peace, love, prosperity and abundance and in the Praise of God. Amen. (Now promise to give Saint Expedite a specific offering if your desire is granted). M.D.

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 own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Thank you. M.D.

To have your advert seen by over 80,000 people every week advertise with us! THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN CO. ROSCOMMON!

72

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES FALLON John Joe

CONNOLLY Tommy

BRENNAN Anne

JUDGE Martin (Matt)

Late of Manchester and formally of Lysterfield, Curraghboy Who passed away on 9th November in St. Ann’s Hospice, Manchester

Cloonakilleg, Mount Talbot

Stonepark, Galway Rd., Roscommon Who died on the 15th December 2015

(6th Anniversary)

John Joe is survived by his mother Lizzy, son John, daughter Lindsey, brothers Willie and Seamus and sisters Rita, Mary and Theresa. Month’s Mind Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Curraghboy at 8pm on Saturday 10th December. May he Rest in Peace.

GATELY (nee Morrissey) Mary Bredagh, Dysart (3rd Anniversary)

Remembered with love and affection by John J, John, Margaret, Madonna, sister Delia, grandchildren and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church Dysart, Saturday, 10th December at 7pm.

DOORLY Patrick Rockfield, Roscommon (7th Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dear father and grandfather, who died on 12th December 2009 R.I.P. Your name is often mentioned, Our thoughts are with you still. You have never been forgotten, And by us you never will.

Always remembered by Ann, Michael, Ann Marie and Patrick. Anniversary Mass in Clooneycolgan Church on Sunday 11th December at 10am.

Tommy’s daughters Sarah and Brigid and his mother Eileen, son-in-law Ian and all the extended Connolly family wish to thank most sincerely all who sympathised with us on our sad and unexpected bereavement. We wish to thank in a special way our immediate families for their comfort and support. To all those who called to our homes at Cloonakilleg and Bushy Park, travelled long distances to be with us, telephoned, texted, facebooked, who sent Mass Cards, letters of sympathy and floral tributes, to those who attended the Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial, our heartfelt gratitude is extended. We thank Dr. Padraig Brennan and Dr. David Harrison, Roscommon Health Centre and the staff of Portiuncula Hospital for all their care for Tommy at the beginning of his illness. We thank Dr. Diarmuid Manning and his nursing staff at the Galway Clinic, where they cared for Tommy in a very sensitive and gentle manner. We thank in particular Consultant Dr. Jan Steiner (ICU) and the Chaplaincy in the hospital who prepared us for Tommy’s parting. Our eternal gratitude to the Very Reverend Francis Beirne P.P., Tisrara for his great kindness and support to us over this time, also for visiting Tommy during his illness. We thank him especially for his beautiful Requiem Mass and his thoughtful and touching Homily. Also to Fr. Rooney, Fr. Breslin, Fr. Donnelly and Fr. Carolan for concelebrating his Funeral Mass. Our thanks to Bernie Moran, Fiona Ducke and Tony Byrne for their beautiful music and hymns at the Funeral Mass. We thank the Mass Servers, the readers and the people who read Prayers of the Faithful and the Communion Reflection. We feel all aspects of Tommy’s life were acknowledged with all the various friends/committees involved. We thank those who provided Guards of Honour at the Removal and the Funeral: Tisrara NS, Mount Talbot NS, INTO (Roscommon Branch and District 6), Four Roads hurling, camogie, ladies football, Roscommon hurlers and county hurling board committee, Mount Talbot handball clubs, Parish Lotto Committee and Coláiste Mhuire, Ballygar and all the others who joined in. Our gratitude to the local Garda Siochana for their personal escort out of Ballygar and during the Removal and their continued presence during the Funeral Mass. We also thank Maura Delaney, Gerry Dowd, Grace Hevehan and our parishioners for providing the music for Tommy’s Month’s Mind. The wonderful support of the whole parish of Four Roads must be mentioned in a special way. To the people who provided refreshments for the large crowd after the Removal, we will be forever grateful. We thank the Four Roads hurling club for organising this. To everyone who brought endless supplies of food to Cloonakilleg and Bushy Park, we are forever indebted. Sincere thanks to David Moran Undertakers, Ballygar for his kindness and professional arrangements in Ballygar and Four Roads. Also to the gravediggers (our good neighbours), who prepared Tommy’s final resting place. Thanks to Tierney’s Restaurant, Ballygar for providing the refreshments after the Burial. We thank Roscommon County Hurling Board for the lovely tribute to Tommy on Shannonside FM, we also thank Tommy’s dear friends in the Roscommon People and Roscommon Herald for the lovely written tributes to him, it really meant a lot to us. Our thanks to Tommy’s many personal friends, in Four Roads and Ballygar and further afield, for their support at the time of his illness and since his death. We know you share our grief. We were deeply moved by the large numbers who attended his Funeral Service and are consoled with the knowledge that he had touched the hearts of so many people during his lifetime. Whilst our hearts are forever broken, we comfort ourselves with the fact that he is now at peace with his beloved wife Veronica, much loved son Tomas and loving father Michael. ‘Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us everyday’

Missed and forever loved by daughters Sarah and Brigid, sonin-law Ian, his granddaughters Deirbhle and Clodagh, mother Eileen and all the extended Connolly family. Tommy’s First Anniversary Mass will take place in the Church of the Good Shepard, Four Roads at 7.00pm on Saturday 17th December 2016. Rest in Peace Tommy.

On the First Anniversary of Anne’s death on the 15th December 2016, we her family Marie, Seamus, Catherine, Paula and Sean together with her extended family and grandchildren wish to express sincere thanks and deepest gratitude to all who attended and travelled long distances to the Removal and Funeral Mass. A special word of thanks to Fr. Eugene McLoughlin, Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon and his Concelebrants. Also the Mass Servers, the Sacristan, organist and the choir for their lovely contribution to Anne’s Funeral Mass. We are grateful to the doctors/ nurses and staff of Roscommon County Hospital and University College Hospital, Galway for their kindness and professionalism shown to Anne at all times. A special thanks to Pat Smyth who organised the Funeral for us with sensitivity and expertise. Sincere thanks to the gravediggers who prepared Anne’s resting place with care and attention. Also a special thank you to the Abbey Hotel who provided a lovely meal after the Funeral. As it would be impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 10th December 2016 in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 8pm.

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

Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Our deadline for receipt of Family Notices is 2.30pm on Tuesday.

In loving memory of a dear father and grandfather Martin (Matt) Judge, Runnabracken, Donamon, Co. Roscommon, who died on 6th December 2010

KIERNAN Sandra

You were so very special And had the nicest ways You did so very much in life and never asked for praise.

Ruane, Kilglass, Co Roscommon

Sadly missed by his daughter Carmel, partner Andrew and grandchildren Colm and Blake. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Nothing on earth can ever replace The sound of your voice. No verse, no flowers No tears can say How much we miss you everyday.

Always remembered by his daughter Martina, son-in-law Brendan and grandchildren Kevin, David and Caoimhe. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 18th December at 11am in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish.

DONLON Timothy (Timmie) St. John’s, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon Who died on 14th December 2009 (7th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our darling daughter and sister Sandy, who died 12th December 2014 You can shed tears that she is gone Or you can smile because she has lived. You can close your eyes and pray that she’ll come back Or you can open your eyes and see all she has left. Your heart can be empty, because you can’t see her, or you can be full of the love you shared. You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday. You can remember her and only that she’s gone, Or you can cherish her memory and let it live on. You can cry and close your mind, Be empty and turn your back, Or you can do what she’d want: Smile, open your eyes, Love and go on.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Memories are like leaves of gold, They never tarnish or grow old. Locked in our hearts you will always be Loved and remembered for all eternity.

Mari and Shane. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

There is a love, a special love That is for you alone, There is a place, Deep in my heart That only you can own. You are not just a memory or part of my past You are part of my life for as long as it shall last.

Lovingly remembered by Elizabeth. ~~~~~~~~~~~ We’ll remember all you taught us, We’re heartbroken but won’t be sad Because you’ll send us down the answers And you’ll always be our Dad.

Sadly missed by Regina and Martha. Timmie’s Anniversary Mass will take place in St. John’s Church, Lecarrow on Sunday 11th December 2016 at 11.30am.

Grief fills the room up of my absent child, Lies in her bed, walks up and down with me, Puts on her pretty looks, repeats her words, Remembers me of all her gracious parts, Stuffs out her vacant garments with her form.

Des and Ber. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ You are near, even if I don’t see you You are with me, even if you are far away. You are in my heart, in my thoughts, In my life always.

Karen, Mitch and girls. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ She was taken without warning Her going left hearts filled with pain, But though she is gone from amongst us In our hearts she will always remain.

Aunts, uncles, cousins and all her friends. Sandra’s 2nd Anniversary Mass will take place on Friday, December 9th at 7pm in Sacred Heart Church, Kilglass.

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NewsPeople

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES McDERMOTT James Gerard (Jim)

In loving memory of James Gerard (Jim) McDermott, Celtic Avenue, Roscommon Jim’s wife Teresa and family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to all those whose expertise and kindness helped to ease the burden of Jim’s illness and the pain of his passing. We will remain forever grateful to you all. In particular, Teresa and family would like to acknowledge the medical professionals who so expertly and graciously gave of their talent and skill during his illness. In this regard, we note the selfless work of Dr. John Keenan of the Roscommon Medical Centre and the staff of University College Hospital Galway, the Galway Clinic and the Roscommon Mayo Hospice. We further wish to convey our sincerest gratitude to the many members of the Clergy from the Parish of Roscommon and beyond who officiated at Jim’s Funeral and who offered counsel and support to him, prior to his passing, and to us, his family, in the weeks and months that followed. In particular, we express our deepest appreciation to Monsignor Charles Travers, Fr. Eugene McLoughlin, Fr. Ireneusz Kuzmicki, Fr. Francis Glennon, Fr. Francis Beirne, Fr. Frank McGouran and Fr. John Leogue, deceased. We would also like to express our gratitude to all of those who walked this journey with us. We are truly thankful to the many who travelled to pay their respects and to extend their sympathies, and to those who took the time to write letters and send cards. Your thoughtful presence and kind words were a source of great comfort to us. Finally, to our extended family, neighbours and friends, we are grateful beyond words. We were very touched by the Guard of Honour that you formed as Jim left the Church of the Sacred Heart and we deeply appreciate the touching farewell that Mr. Bill Cunningham provided as Jim was laid to rest. In thinking of you all, we are reminded of the words of William Butler Yeats: “Think where man’s glory most begins and ends, And say my glory was I had such friends”.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Anniversary Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon on Sunday the 11th December 2016 at 12.15pm.

BOYLE Evelyn (Nana) Enfield , Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 7th December 2015 (1st Anniversary) On the First Anniversary of our dear and loving mother, her family sincerely thank everyone for the kind words, love and support shown to us. To all who called to her home, Funeral Mass and Burial. A special word of thanks to our kind neighbours and friends who helped so much during this sad time. For those who travelled, we will be forever grateful. To Fr. Pat for his gentleness and attention to every detail. We also thank the nurses and doctors of Portiuncula Hospital for their care of our mother in her final days. Our thanks to Jim Kenny and Niall Flanagan for the dignified manner in which they carried out the Funeral arrangements. To the grave diggers who prepared our Mam’s final resting place under difficult conditions. The personal touches were so appropriate and did not go unnoticed. Thanks to Patricia who provided food for all and to Eileen and Jim Kenny for the hospitality. Thanks to Carmel McLoughlin who sang so beautifully in the church. For the many Mass Cards, Mass Enrolments, texts and phone calls, we are so grateful. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually for everything, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

BOYLE Evelyn (Nana) Enfield, Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 7th December 2015 (1st Anniversary)

When God was making Mothers, He must have made a fuss He spent a lot of time on one And gave that one to us. Of all the gifts in life However great or small, To have you as our Mother Was the greatest gift of all. Because you were so special No words could ever say How much we love and miss you Today and every day.

Always remembered by her loving family.

REILLY Paddy Aughmagree, Kilteevan (6th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Paddy who died on 11th December 2010 Special memories keep you near, As time unfolds another year, Each of us in our own way, Have special thoughts of you today. Will those who think of him today A little prayer to Jesus say

Loved and remembered always by his wife Phil and family. Anniversary Mass has been offered.

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

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

Nicola’s picture perfect career switch! New Beginnings CARMEL KELLY-PALMER

N

icola Lee has had a most diverse working life and is now capturing some of the happiest events in peoples’ lives. In 2011, she looked at what had become an enjoyable hobby and asked herself the question if she could make this exciting pastime into a career. She purchased an SLR camera, lens, plus a studio kit, determined to give it a try. “For a couple of years I worked hard taking photos of friends and sourcing information. The Internet became my best friend…learning new methods of taking photos in order to be creative. I completed a few short courses with the Institute of Photography in Dublin and also attended a portrait lighting course in Limerick,” she said. Nicola was eager to start her photography business: “I began by doing mobile portrait sessions, where I would travel to an individual’s home setting up my studio there. I progressed onto to wedding photographs. Obviously there would be much more work and time involved. “A wedding photography session could start at 9 or 10 am and, with a full day package, I might not finish until 10 or 11 pm. This involves a lot of work and can be challenging, but a challenge is what I like.” Nicola hails from Ballaghaderreen, where her parents are living, but she is now based in Birr, Co. Offaly. The Abbey Hotel, Roscommon, was just one of her locations for a wedding shoot in 2015. “Most of the summer took me to various horse shows and I am introducing a private equestrian photo shoot. Clients can arrange for me to go to their horse yard where they can choose a selection of photographs taken with casual wear or competition wear.” Nicola, at 32, now finds herself doing the work she believes she is destined for, a hobby she enjoyed and one she decided she could follow and perhaps, with hard work and determination, build up into a successful career. She is an individual who has already been grounded in very demanding careers in the past. “I moved to Dublin after gaining my Leaving

Nicola Lee

Certificate and over the years was a security officer in the busy A&E Department at Blanchardstown Hospital. In 2007, an opportunity arose to work at Dublin Airport as an airport search officer and I left there in 2011 and looked at what I would really love to do with my life.” In these busy and demanding careers, Nicola was accustomed to long working hours, was in touch daily with a wide mix of individuals and became used to dealing with problematic incidents. This has obviously prepared her for the demands of her present career as a busy photographer in which she has to work long hours and deal with the public. I asked Nicola how she found the transition into a completely different career? “I thoroughly enjoy my work and love the whole photography process. I am lucky to be able to interact with a wide variety of people at different settings and locations and to realise that this is where I want to be.”

Death of local character, the late John Martin Connor The death occurred on 26th of October at Innis Ree Nursing Home, Ballyleague, of John Martin Connor, Aghadangan, Strokestown. John Martin, as he was better known, was nine days short of his 90th birthday and had enjoyed his full faculties right to the end. John Martin was a great character who loved sport and attended many football matches in his lifetime. He was a great conversationalist and would regale audiences with his repertoire of stories and yarns from times long past. He was one of the last witty characters of his age and he will be sadly missed by all who had the privilege to know him. In his younger days John Martin worked for both Roscommon County Council and Bord na Mona, later he worked as a treefeller and a sheep-shearer, his skill and ability at both these tasks was second to none.

As a farmer he was a good judge of livestock and frequented fairs and marts down through the years. John Martin was one of the founding members of the Carnaska Sinn Féin Cumann in 1957 and held strong Republican views all his lifetime. He was also involved in raising funds for the local National Athletic and Cycling Association in the Carnaska area in the 1960s. John Martin is survived by his wife Bridie, sons John (Australia), Roger (Drogheda), and Thomas

(home); daughters Mary (London), Dorothy (Canada), Eileen (Portlaoise), Margaret (Ardagh), Olive (Birr), Alice (Drogheda); sister Mary (New York), daughters-in-law, sonsin-law, grandchildren, nephews, nieces and relations, to whom deepest sympathy is extended. His removal took place from McHugh’s Funeral Home to Carniska Church. His coffin was draped with the Tricolour and the hearse was escorted through the town by a Guard of Honour of his Republican comrades. Mass of the Resurrection was celebrated on Saturday, 29th, by Fr. Eamon O’Connor, assisted by Fr. Ciaran O’Flynn and Fr. Ciaran Whitney. Interment took place in Lisonuffy Cemetery. Fr. O’Flynn officiated at the burial. At the graveside Henry Owens delivered a tribute to John Martin and Noel Carbery, uileann piper, from Longford, played a

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SportsPeople The Buck’ won’t stop here! Exclusive interview with Connacht’s Denis Buckley on Pat Lam, playing for Ireland and calling home on Christmas Eve. See page 79 ©INPHO/Donall Farmer

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

SportsPeople GAA dates for your diary for 2017 2016 was a memorable year for GAA and a mixed one for Roscommon. The throw-in for the FBD League is just weeks away now and as Roscommon senior manager Kevin McStay prepares to face the media today (Thursday). Here we look ahead to 2017 in the hope of long awaited champiPicture taken from Sportsfile’s ‘A Season of onship success for Roscommon. Sundays’ shows the scene from St. Brigid’s Clubhouse on January 31st of this year: Roscommon selector Liam McHale is relaxed as he chats with Ian Kilbride who is loosening up in Kiltoom ahead of the county’s return to the top flight in the Allianz League. Picture credit: Brendan Moran/SPORTSFILE

Connacht Championships Connacht U-21 FC Semi-Final Wednesday, March 22nd:

Roscommon v Sligo at Kiltoom. 7.30 pm Connacht U-21 FC Final Saturday, April 1st Connacht SFC Semi-Final Sunday, June 18th: Roscommon v London/Leitrim at Dr Hyde Park. Connacht SFC Final Sunday, July 9th: Connacht U-17 FC Semi-Final Sunday, 18th June: Roscommon v Leitrim at Dr Hyde Park. Connacht MFC Semi-Final Wednesday, 28th June: Mayo/ Galway v Roscommon.

Windows on the world! Picture taken from Sportsfile’s ‘A Season of Sundays’ shows the scene from Páirc Seán Mac Diarmada on April 3rd of this year: Kevin McStay, Liam McHale and other members of the Roscommon backroom team‚ along with members of the media are among those monitoring the Allianz League Division 1 game against Dublin in Carrickon-Shannon. Picture credit: Brendan Moran/SPORTSFILE

Dowd delivers as Creggs end on high Warm N’ Cosy Homes Tansey Cup Final (League Division 3) CREGGS WESTERN GAELS A goal and a point from Shane Dowd in the final couple of minutes of this Tansey Cup Final at Athleague were crucial as Creggs completed the championship and league double in dramatic fashion after a well-contested decider. Western Gaels were the more accomplished outfit in the first half and a well taken goal from Niall Higgins put them in control, and when the same player scored a second goal in the 20th minute, Creggs looked in trouble. But they finished the half well and points from Enda O’Rourke, Kevin Gavin, and Paul Brandon saw them come to within

1-10 2-6 four at half-time. Indeed, Creggs missed a penalty five minutes before the break when Shane Dowd’s spot kick was saved by Gaels’ goalkeeper Adrian Hardiman. The third quarter was a dour battle and the sides scored only one point apiece. Then points from Enda O’Rourke and Kevin Gavin reduced the margin to two before Niall Higgins’ point left a goal in it with three minutes to go. Then in the final minute, Shane Dowd’s pointed free left two between the sides and then with the clock running into added time, Dowd scored a superb goal to give his side the lead for the first time in

the game. There were over five minutes of injury-time. Shane Dowd scored another point in the 63rd minute and while Niall Higgins scored a Gaels free a minute later Creggs had done enough to win the title. Creggs: E Fleming; C Gore, K Dowd, E Hanley; S Dermody, J McKeague, K Raftery; T Fleming, E O’Rourke (0-1); P McKeague, S Dowd (1-5), M Brandon; P Brandon (0-1), E Conneran (0-1), K Gavin (0-2). Subs: S Quinn for P Brandon, R Kelly for M Brandon, C Canny for Hanley, J McPhilbin for Canny. Western Gaels: A Hardiman; A Freyne, M Higgins, J Devine; T Devine, S Conry, C Casserly; A Dowd, J Duffy; N Higgins, O Ward (0-1), M Duffy; C Sampey (0-2), Niall Higgins (2-3), D McGarry. Subs: S Carroll for Duffy, J Higgins for Dowd, T McCann for J Devine.

This weekend’s action Today’s racing takes place at Powerstown Park, Clonmel with the first race timed for 12.25 pm. Tomorrow evening, flat racing is under lights at Dundalk, off at 6.05 pm. On Saturday, Navan’s Proudstown Park hosts the action starting at 12 pm. Sunday sees two meetings, at Punchestown starting at 12.25 pm and Cork near Mallow off at 12.35 pm. Patrons at Powerstown Park today get a chance to see Galway Hurdle and Royal Ascot winner Clondaw Warrior in the Jim Strang & Sons Kilsheelan (Peugeot) Hurdle with Ruby Walsh aboard. The Willie Mullins trained 9-Y-O faces 6 opponents including Gordon Elliott’s Taglietellie and Charles Byrnes trained Shanpallas. If he has any chinks in his armour, Elliott’s charge is in receipt of 10lbs and could make it count.

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

GAA Results

Review of the Week On Sunday, Airlie Beach won the first of the 3 Grade 1 races for WP Mullins and his nephew Danny beating Saturnas and La Martalin 6½l and 2¾l. In a thrilling Hatton’s Grace Hurdle, Apple’s Jade just accounted for Closutton’s Vroum Vroum Mag by a short head with Shaneshill 7l back. In the Drinmore, JP McManus’ Coney Island scored his first win over the major obstacles

Adult Football League Division 3 Final (Tansey Cup) Creggs 1-10 Western Gaels 2-6 Adult Football League Division 3 Relegation Play-off (Tansey Cup) Shannon Gaels 1-7 St. Brigid’s 0-6 O’Rourke Cup Relegation Pádraig Pearses 1-11 Oran 0-7 U-20 Division 2 SemiFinals Elphin-Ballinameen 0-18 St. Croan’s 1-9 Oran 5-10 Kilmore Shannon Gaels 0-8 U-20 Division 3 SemiFinals Castlerea St. Kevin’s 2-9 Éire Óg 1-10 Dermot Hughes U-20 Division 1 - Section B St. Brigid’s W/O St. Ciaran’s

GAA Fixtures Sunday, December 11th

Shane Dowd scored 1-5 as Creggs ended the year on a high by winning the Tansey Cup last against Western Gaels last Saturday. Pic: Andrew Fox

U-20 Division 1 - SemiFinals (12 pm) At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Pádraig Pearses At TBC: St. Brigid’s v St. Dominic’s U-20 Division 2 Final At Enfield: Elphin-Ballinameen v Oran. 12 pm

as Mark Walsh steered him 2¼l clear of Anibale Fly with Alpha Des Obeaux a similar distance back in 3rd. Un de Sceaux held off Sire De Grugy in the Tingle Creek at Sandown last Saturday, winning for WP Mullins and Ruby Walsh by 1l with God’s Own a neck away further back in third.

General News The Horse Racing Ireland Awards were announced at Leopardstown last Tuesday. The Horse of the Year Award went to the Aidan O’Brien filly Minding, winner of the Newmarket Guineas and the Epsom Oaks, 2 of 5 group 1 races she won. The National Hunt Award went to champion trainer Willie Mullins who also won a classic with Wicklow Brave in the Irish St Leger. The Flat Award to another champion trainer Aidan O’Brien who won 22 Group 1’s and a magnificent 1, 2, 3 in the Prix de L’Arc. Michael ‘Mouse’ Morris won the Outstanding Achievement Award having won the Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse with Rogue Angel and 12 days later won the Aintree Grand National with Rule The World. The Point-To-Point Award went to champion rider, Jamie Codd, and the accolade of Racecourse of the Year went to Galway Racecourse at Ballybrit. Hennessy has ended its 60 year sponsor-

Clondaw Warrior and Ruby Walsh win the Galway Hurdle.

ship of the Hennessy Gold Cup at Newbury having ended their sponsorship of the Leopardstown Gold Cup in 2015. The Irish Racing Yearbook crossed my desk recently and it is the definitive Irish racing annual covering the entire thoroughbred industry, including flat, national hunt, point-to-point racing and breeding. It also includes a comprehensive section on stats, race records and fixtures, making it essential reading and an ideal present for the racing enthusiast in your life.

Point to Point Corner There are two point to points in the south on Sunday, at Borris House on the Carlow/Kilkenny border and at Boulta on the Cork/Waterford border, while both meetings were scheduled to start at 12 pm, Borris House will now start at 11 am due to the large entry. The Turf Club has announced an extra meeting on New Year’s Day at Boulta replacing the Lisgoold fixture at Templencarriga.

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SportsPeople

SICK AS AROSCOMMON PARROT/OVER THE MOON & DISTRICT LEAGUE NEWS Dooner’s weekend predictions Last weekend didn’t go too well. These predictions are about as safe as bringing on Marouane Fellaini to protect a one goal lead, but here they are anyway…

Friday, December 9th Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (7.15 pm) Kilkerrin United v Lough Harps These two played out a draw earlier on but the visitors have looked more impressive since. Prediction: Lough Harps

Saturday, December 10th The Herald Premier Division (7.45 pm) Castlerea Celtic v Ballaghaderreen FC Celtic simply have to win with Ballinasloe hot on their heels.

Prediction: Castlerea Celtic. Shiven Rovers v Moore United The visitors are on a roll. Prediction: Moore United. Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 (7.45 pm) Strokestown United v Moore United B Can’t see past the hosts this weekend. Prediction: Strokestown United.

Sunday, December 11th The Herald Premier Division (2 pm) Ahascragh United v Ballinasloe Town The visitors will prove too strong here. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town. St. John’s Athletic v Skyvalley Rovers If St. John’s are going to win one this season, it’ll

Soccer Results Umbro FAI Junior Cup Round 5 Ballinasloe Town 2 Villa (Waterford) 2 AET (Villa won 5-4 on penalties) The Herald Premier Division Ballymoe FC 3 St. John’s Athletic 0 Brazukas 4 Ahascragh United 0 Castlerea Celtic 1 Moore United 2 Skyvalley Rovers 2 Shiven Rovers 1 Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 CP Ajax 3 Cloonfad United 2 Dysart FC 5 Kilkerrin United 3 Lough Harps 3 Dunmore Town 2 Loughglynn United v Glen Celtic, postponed. Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 Cloonfad United B 4 Castlerea Celtic B 2 Moore United B v Shiven Rovers B, postponed Cam Celtic 3 Ballinagare FC 0 Dunmore Town B 4 Hodson Bay Athletic 6 Roscommon United 1 Strokestown United 4

be this one. Prediction: St. John’s Athletic. Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (2 pm) CP Ajax v Dysart FC Ajax will be out for revenge this weekend. Dysart look unstoppable though. Prediction: Dysart FC. Loughglynn United v Cloonfad United Cloonfad will be waiting for any slip-up in Castleplunkett. Prediction: Cloonfad United. Rahara Rovers v Ballinasloe Town B A real relegation six-pointer. Prediction: Rahara Rovers. Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 (2 pm) Ballinagare FC v Cloonfad United B Ballinagare will be looking to do the double over Cloonfad who are in better form. Prediction: Draw. Castlerea Celtic B v Dunmore Town B Castlerea’s woes set to continue. Prediction: Dunmore Town B. Hodson Bay Athletic v Moylough ’79 The home side are in impressive recent form and it looks likely to continue. Prediction: Hodson Bay Athletic. Skyvalley Rovers B v Cam Celtic. 11.30 am Skyvalley Rovers to remain without a win. Prediction: Cam Celtic.

This week’s Awards…

eek ce of the W Des Hope Performan om Ballinasloe Town with n they did ort fr e whe A gallant effUnfortunate to conced t. en in prom is a lottery. and penalties

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se e Week ove on. I refu ove it and m ruin any more ab e ris to d ilk there I’ve decide ane Fellaini and his must be up to let Marou me! Having said that, itier League history! r fo em in Pr Sundays st ever cameo with the wor

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Action from the Strokestown United vs Roscommon United in the Killeen Sportsgrounds RDFL Division Two. Picture: Andrew Fox

Time to get the Christmas jumpers out! Roscommon Town Youth Soccer Club is taking advantage of the festive period by throwing a Christmas Jumper Party night in Harlow’s The Central Bar this Saturday night (10th). There will be plenty of craic on the night and a chance to win cash and

prizes by spinning the wheel of fortune or taking part in the club’s 50/50 draw. There will also be music on the night by Big Ideas and lots of spot prizes. All are welcome to attend with all proceeds going towards the local underage soccer club.

Roscommon Town Youth Soccer Club is throwing a

Christmas Jumper Party Night in Harlows, The Central Bar, Saturday, December 10th Spin the Wheel of Fortune and 50/50 Draw on the night

Music on the night by

Big Ideas

Loads of spot prizes

All are welcome. Proceeds go to underage soccer club

THE GAIN LINE Creggs set for Tuam double-header! Creggs RFC Report

Both Creggs senior first and second teams are down to play at home against Tuam this weekend in their respective Connacht League divisions. The first team match is at 8 pm on Saturday evening in Creggs with the second team kicking-off at 2.30 pm on Sunday afternoon, also in Creggs. Please come along to support the lads and Creggs Rugby. Youth rugby: Creggs U18.5s will play Connemara in Division 1A of the Connacht League next Sunday in Creggs with a 1 pm kickoff. A tough encounter is guaranteed but a win for the lads would cement a top 4 finish and should guarantee a home league semi-final. Training continues tomor-

row night (Friday) at 8.30 pm in Creggs. U-14s: Creggs will Play Castlebar in Division 1 of the league in Creggs next Saturday. U-15s: Creggs’ next league game and last before Christmas is this Saturday (10th) against Claremorris in Dunmore at 12 pm. U-16s: Creggs will play a local derby next Sunday at home to Buccaneers in Division 1 of the U-16 league at 11.30 am. Training tonight (Thursday) at 7 pm. Mini rugby: Creggs will travel to Ballyhaunis on Saturday for the last Blitz before Christmas with a 10.30 am kick-off. U-13 League: Galwegians 20 Creggs 19. Creggs travelled to Galway last

Saturday and lost out by a last minute score to Galwegians. It was a great performance and they can consider themselves very unlucky not to have come away with the points on this occasion. Creggs scored tries on the day from Aodhan Looby, Jack Fleming and Tadhg Lyons with a couple of conversions from Cormac Dolan. Their disappointment was soon forgotten as the lads travelled over to watch Connacht v Treviso at the Sportsground that afternoon. The lads have no league game now until the New Year. U-15 League: Sligo 13 Creggs 10. For the second week in a row, Creggs travelled to Sligo and came

away losing by just a single score. Creggs were short a few players last week but the lads who played did very well and they were held up just short on a number of occasions in the second half. Creggs almost snatched victory when a run from Aaron Lyons took him well into the Sligo 22” with Shane Connaughton in support, but the pass didn’t stick and the ball was knocked on. Creggs’ tries came from Mark Purcell and Jack Tucker in each half. Creggs’ next league game and last before Christmas is on Saturday (10th) against Claremorris in Dunmore. Training continues tonight (Thursday) at 7 pm.

Action from Creggs U-13s’ game against Galwegians last weekend.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER

@dan_dooner

GAA hoping to avoid another ‘black’ mark THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner

In fairness to the GAA, the organisation has made efforts to improve the game of football as a spectacle. Many might disagree with the introduction of the black card but I believe it was done with the game’s best interests at heart. The latest rule to be introduced is the ‘mark’, which has existed in rugby and Australian Rules Football for a number of years. Basically, the GAA want to encourage spectacular high fielding in an effort to quell the tide of hand passing

which many supporters are dead set against. The new rule means that a player who catches the ball cleanly from a kick-out on or past the 45-metre line will now have the option of calling a mark and taking a free-kick, or playing on immediately. Therefore, goalkeepers are encouraged to kick the ball into traffic rather than seeking a short pass to a cornerback in space, which should be a relief to anyone who witnessed the Connacht Final in Salthill this year! This is all well and good, but it comes down to referees and how they administer the game. The black card was a good idea…in

theory. The extra card was introduced to eliminate cynical play and fouls designed to stagger the flow of the game. In reality, it causes mass confusion across the country and the inconsistency in which it is used is frustrating. It would be difficult to accuse the GAA of not listening to suggestions on how to improve football, but the enforcement of the laws of the game – new and old – needs attention too. It’s one thing introducing the ‘mark’ but if it serves to slow the game down or causes confusion then supporters of the game will still be complaining during the All-Ireland Final next September!

Garvan Dolan contests a high ball with Daithi Burke during the recent AIB Connacht Club Football Final between St. Brigid’s and Corofin. Picture: Andrew Fox

The week in numbers 1 2

People’s Champions of the week

Boyle Celtic are the sole mon representatives from Co. Roscom play y The . Cup ior Jun still in the FAI y over Ballina Town or Dean Celtic awa h. 13t y uar Jan of d ken wee the Creggs added the Tansey Cup last Saturday to complete a double!

4

All-Ireland Grade E Doubles winners, Sean Staunton and David Delaney, from Ballinaheglish Badminton Club receive the cup from Greg Farrell of Badminton Ireland last Saturday in Lisburn.

d in There were four 180s last weeken Jack : gue Lea ts Dar the Roscommon an Gunning, John Paul Feeney, Ciar ing Flem tin Mar and ey Hick

Sporting week on Tweet Street Tommy Rooney @ TomasORuanaidh Haha the commentator on BeinSports calling out all his audience on illegal streams “we know you’re out there, enjoy.” - brilliant. #ElClasico (Not surprised – any time I go to watch a game it’s on a sports package I don’t have!)

Keith Gillespie @KeithGillespie7 The only plus point it hopefully may be Fellaini’s last game in a United short (sic) although won’t hold my breath! (Fingers crossed.)

Declan Varley @declanvarley

The Sporting Brief Handball

No joy for Coman’s There was no joy for St. Coman’s in the 40x20 Open Inter Club All-Ireland semi-final held in Collohill, Co. Laois last Saturday when they were well beaten by a formidable side from Breacach in Co. Tyrone. Rikki O’Gara was well beaten by Gabhán McCrystal, 21-8, 21-12 in the first singles match. The doubles pair of

Niall McGrath and Darren Beatty went down 13-21, 14-21, to Johnny Woods and Pól Clarke. Shane O’Neill only needed six points against Neil McDermott in the last singles, and he quickly reached his target ending the St. Coman’s adventure.

Darts Concannon fires in UK Thomas Concannon was in fine form at last week’s qualifiers for the Lakeside World Darts Championship

and the Winmau World Masters in the UK. In the Lakeside qualifiers, Concannon almost threw the perfect leg in his first match before facing Dutchman Toon Greebe in the following round where he went down 2-1. The following day, in the Winmau Masters, he enjoyed wins over Wayne Harrison, Colin McGarry and Liam Gallagher en route to the last 32. Unfortunately, he exited at that stage to Robert Allenstein (3-1) despite some excel-

Sharp shooters! Pictured are members and prizewinners in the November’s Day Competition, which was organised by Ballinlough Game Hunting and Conservation club recently.

lent darts. Closer to home, The Hollywood were beaten by Flanagan’s (7-2) while Dalton’s overcame McDermott’s on the same scoreline. This week, An Bóthar Rua take on Creaton’s, Dalton’s entertain The Hollywood and The Forge visit McDermott’s.

Pool

Charlie’s on top Charlie’s played out a draw with Ned’s last weekend to cement top spot in the Roscommon Town & District Pool League. Elsewhere, there were wins for The Holly Tree over The Hollywood, Rattigan’s over Larry’s and The Railway Bar over An Tobar. D’Alton’s and The Claypipe couldn’t be separated. This weekend sees Larry’s taking on The Hollywood, The Claypipe entertaining

Holly Tree, D’Alton’s visiting Ned’s, The Railway Bar facing Rattigan’s and An Tobar welcoming Charlie’s.

Golf

O’Hara wins in Boyle We start a shortened round this week in Boyle, where club captain, Gerry O’Hara, won the final turkey voucher with 24 points, just ahead of Liam Whyte on 23. Meanwhile, Liam Mullaney won last week’s Winter Open with 22 points. To Roscommon next, where last Sunday’s 15-hole competition was won by C. Brennan with 38 points. C. Brennan also claimed the turkey competition with 22 points. It’s great to ‘C’ Brennan playing so well! Finally to Athlone, where Adrian Kelly, Tony Reape, Declan Corcoran and Eamonn Higgins were the most recent winners.

Pat Lam set a template for how to manage a team – focusing on the tactical and psychological. He deserves every success and every thanks. (The Connacht coach will move to Bristol at the end of the season.)

In the sporting diary .... Christmas boxing show in Castlerea! Castlerea Boxing Club is hosting a Christmas Show this Saturday (10th). There will be visiting clubs on the night including: Elphin, Loughglynn, Ballinrobe, Ardagh and Swinford. The entire community are invited to turn out and support local boxers at The Hub in Castlerea this Saturday at 7 pm. Admission is €5.

Christmas Darts Singles This Sunday (11th) sees the Annual Christmas Singles Darts Competition being played in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon. This competition is open to all players in Roscommon, with a €10 entry fee for adults and €5 entry for youths. Names are to be in by 3.30 pm sharp, with the draw at 3.45 pm and games to begin at 4 pm.

Christmas Bonanza in Boyle Boyle Golf Club plays host to the ‘Christmas Bonanza’ this Sunday (11th). This is an 18-hole Stableford with tee times available from 8.50 am to 12.30 pm.

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

@SeamusDuke

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Dublin hurlers keep their ‘Cuala’ to win first title With the GAA season winding down, the Leinster club hurling final was a superb game and it produced another first time winner when Dublin’s Cuala took the honours. To have defeated the Kilkenny champions in any provincial decider in hurling is a significant achievement and now Cuala are just an hour away from an appearance

in the All-Ireland club final. The Cuala followers brought a unique atmosphere to O’Moore Park and it seemed that every one of them was wearing a Santa hat and they brought great colour to the game. I was also so impressed by ‘man of the match’ Con O’Callaghan who was tremendous during the game but who

was fluent in Irish when interviewed afterwards. He is also a very good footballer and is a name we will be hearing about a lot over the coming years. There are some mouth-watering club games in prospect in February with Cuala taking on Slaughtneil and Ballyea playing Galway champions

St. Thomas’. In the football, there is the prospect of Dr Crokes v Corofin and Slaughtneil v St. Vincent’s or Rhode who do battle on Sunday. The ‘mark’, which will come into Gaelic football in January, has not received a lot of publicity thus far. It has been trialled in the Higher Education Leagues over the past couple of

Gentleman John calls home

Christmas crackers in Champions Cup

Last weekend I met with Roscommon native and Cork City manager Johnny Caulfield who was in the county to visit his parents who live in Lecarrow. With the League of Ireland season over, Johnny has a couple of weeks off before his team get back into training in January. He is a lovely man and he takes a huge interest in what’s going on in Roscommon and was up to date with all the latest news in GAA and everything else. He is hugely popular in Cork after his exploits as a player and now as a manager for Cork City but he has never forgotten where he came from and it was a pleasure to meet him.

From the Internet Another indication of the madness of the money washing around in English Soccer…how about this story from the Sunday Times last weekend. One of Liverpool’s most damaging transfer decisions in recent years is replacing Luis Suarez with Mario Balotelli. The Italian was a desperate last resort for Liverpool, and signed for the club on the agreement he would clean up his act off the pitch - ‘just cut down on the bathroom fireworks and throwing darts at youth team members, Mario’ - and focus solely on football. Brendan Rodgers spoke to him for three hours to remind him of his responsibilities, drawing him a picture to ram the message home: he drew a stickman wearing a crown, to illustrate to Balotelli that he was the king of his own destiny. The desire that Balotelli behave himself at Liverpool did not solely manifest itself through Rodgers’ mindfulness sketchings. His contract at Liverpool included provisions for bonuses to be paid in the event of continued good behaviour, and the exact details of those clauses have been made public knowledge today. Football Leaks have brought the public light upon a host of previously confidential football documents in today’s Sunday Times (last Sunday), and the bar Balotelli had to meet in order to earn himself a tidy million pounds were comically low. Here is what the contract said... “If during each season of the term of this contract the player is not dismissed from the field of play on three or more occasions for violent conduct, spitting at an opponent or any other person, for using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures and/or for dissent by word or action . . . then on the 30th June at the end of each season he shall receive a bonus payment of £1m.” He could still afford to be sent-off twice! Furthermore, the club paid for his hotel for the first thirty days at Anfield, giving him a tab of £10,000. On top of his basic salary of £85,000 per week, Balotelli was to be rewarded £50,000 for every goal he scored after notching five in a single season, in either the Champions League or Premier League. Absurdly, he only scored two in his first season, so he didn’t get near it. (The Sunday Times)

months and apparently it has been a big success. Many people have been bemoaning that the skill of the high catch is being lost in the game. This new rule should bring it back. Let’s give it a go and see how it works. It is hard to believe it but in a month’s time we will be off and running for another year with the FBD League.

Chelsea are genuine contenders

The Champions Cup is back this week in rugby and there are some cracking games in prospect, not least the clash of Connacht and Wasps in London on Sunday at 2.10 pm. The decision of Pat Lam to leave Connacht and join Bristol at the end of the season is a huge bombshell and there is no doubt that he has been a massive inspiration to Connacht over the past few years. But if Connacht choose wisely they can get a top class coach to build on what Lam has done. Managers come and go and this early decision will give the powers that be a decent time frame to line up a suitable replacement. Leinster travel to Northampton on Friday night and they should be able to win that if they have a full team out. On Saturday, Ulster have a very tough game at home against the French champions Claremont. At Thomond Park, Munster play host to Leicester, which should be the game of the weekend. The tragic passing of Anthony Foley is still a huge motivating force for Munster and I am expecting them to win.

I had a chance to watch a couple of soccer games over the weekend and there were plenty of talking points. The Man City v Chelsea game was a superb battle. City should have been 2-0 up before Chelsea started their comeback, but with (David) Luiz fantastic at the back and (Diego) Costa running the show further forward they were devastating on the counter attack. They look like possible champions. City will have to bounce back quickly as that loss to Chelsea at home is a huge blow. Liverpool were very careless against Bournemouth. They will not win the Premier League if they make mistakes in defence like the

Connacht rugby coach, Pat Lam, has announced his decision to join Bristol at the end of the season.

Antonio Conte has turned Chelsea into genuine title contenders in the English Premier League.

Silencing his critics? Tiger Woods made his competitive return to golf at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas last weekend.

ones we saw in the final 10 minutes last Sunday. They were absolutely cruising to victory yet they somehow managed to lose the game. However, if anyone can sort it out it will be Klopp. Spurs and Arsenal both scored five and Sanchez was on fire for the Gunners but neither North London team looks to be consistent enough to go on and win the title. Manchester United are going from one bad result to another. Once again, they were by far the better team in the match against Everton but instead of pressing home their advantage they brought on Marouane Fellaini to protect their lead and he gave away a need-

less penalty in the final minute. To gauge just how far United have fallen in the past three years all you have to do is to look at the fact that Fellaini has now made 100 appearances for the club. No one was ever able to convince me that he was good enough to play for Manchester United from day one. There is still a mountain of problems at United and Mourinho will not be winning any league title this year. United haven’t even a chance of finishing top four. They are as well off to try and win the League Cup or the Europa League. They are playing ok but there is no ruthless streak in them any more.

Tiger roaring back? The return of Tiger Woods was one of the sporting stories of the weekend and it was good and bad news for the former champion. He showed glimpses of his former prowess with loads of birdies and his 65 on the second day was a great round. But he made many mistakes too and especially in the final round, but he showed that he is not finished yet. The statistics for the TV viewing figures of last weekend’s tournament are

remarkable. More people watched than watched any of the major tournaments in 2016 except for the Masters and the US Open. It just shows the draw that Tiger still has when it comes to golf. The powers that be and the TV stations in particular will be hoping that he plays a bit more in 2017. He has his faults surely but he has the X-factor and there is no bigger draw in golf. It would be great to see him be able to compete again.

Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

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SportsPeople

‘Playing for Ireland is the big goal!’ Buckley has sights set on Irish caps These are certainly interesting times for Denis Buckley. The 26-yearold Roscommon native is back fully fit and starting for Connacht after a number of injuries in 2016. The shock departure of Pat Lam - announced only on Monday - is sure to bring change at Connacht, however Denis is philosophical about it. The talented loose head prop has been speaking to Seamus Duke about Connacht, Pat Lam, The Champions Cup, a roller coaster 2016 and his ambition to pull on the green jersey of Ireland. We have to start with the announcement from Pat Lam on Monday that he is going to leave at the end of this season - was that a shock to you? “It was a bit of a shock for sure but you can’t dwell on these things too much. It is part of the business really and no squad ever stays the same. Players come and go and coaches come and go as well. It is what it is now, and we have to get on with it. We don’t have the time to dwell on this one because we have a huge game this weekend (against Wasps). Look, I will be very sad to see Pat leave but he has got a great opportunity in the UK and I am very happy for him and his family and I will be wishing him all the best.” Did you have a good relationship with him? “Oh yeah I had a great relationship with him. He has been my coach for the crucial years in my development as a young player and he has given me a lot of help along the way. I have no doubt

that he made me a much better player and I have been very lucky to have been able to work with him. By the time he goes I will have been playing under him for four big seasons and it has been super to work with him and I will miss him for sure.” You have a crucial few weeks coming up with two games back to back with Wasps and a few huge games in the PRO 12. How are you feeling about them? “Wasps back to back is huge for sure. They are second in the English Premiership at the moment and they are always there or thereabouts at the end of the season and they have some really fantastic players. There are not many clubs as big as Wasps in Europe and it’s a huge challenge for us but it’s a challenge that we will not be backing away from. They are two games that we are really looking forward to. The Premiership style is unique in terms of the brand of rugby but maybe we can give

them something that they are not used to week in week out. We will be taking the game to them and it would be great to go over there and win this weekend. It will be very tough but we are very well prepared for it. We are in a very good place at the moment as a team and we will certainly be giving it a good go.” 2016 was a fantastic year for Connacht but maybe a bittersweet year for you personally as you had a few bad injuries and missed the PRO12 final. Back to full fitness now? “It was a roller coaster of a year for me. I was involved in almost all the games throughout the season and then I broke my ankle two weeks before the PRO12 final and that was a tough one to take. But look, it’s part of the game and you just have to deal with injuries when they come and you can’t get too worried about them. In situations like that it’s all about how you deal with adversity and use it as a motivation for when you get back fit. I had a few injuries this year. I

Touchdown! Denis celebrates scoring a try against Benetton Treviso in the Guinness Pro12. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/ SPORTSFILE

was back from the ankle injury in July and I also had a neck injury and a foot injury as well but I have played the last few games and I have come through fine so things are good. I feel great to be honest and I’m ready to get a run of games under my belt now.” You got your 100th cap for Connacht recently in the televised home game against Cardiff and there was a special presentation too - that must have been nice! “It’s hard to believe that I have 100 caps for Connacht now. It’s certainly not something I thought would happen when I started out but it is great and it’s something that I am very proud of and to have the opportunity to have made my 100th appearance at home was a bonus. If I was back the week previously the match would have been away so I suppose it worked out well! But you just have to get on with it. These things are grand but you must move on to the next game and that’s my focus now, to keep on playing and to keep improving.” With regard to the international scene is that something that you have an eye on now that you are back from injury and fully fit? “Oh for sure. It’s a big goal of mine to get into the international squad. But I am aware of the quality of players who are in my position in the squad at the moment and it will be very difficult for me to force myself in. But you see other

In the thick of it: Denis Buckley in action for Connacht against Exeter Chiefs at the Sportsground in the 2014-15 European Challenge Cup. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/SPORTSFILE

players getting in at the start and you have to have a bit of luck with injuries etc. and if you hit form at the right time you never know what might happen. What I have to do is to keep myself in the shop window. I have to keep getting picked for Connacht and to keep playing well and if I am competitive and playing well then I will get noticed so that’s where my focus will be.” So what else is on the cards for 2017? “I want Connacht to get back up the league table and to perform well in the Champions Cup and qualify from the group. That would be another great season but there is a long way to go.” What sort of Christmas will Denis Buckley have - any parties? “No partying at all. We play Ulster on the 23rd of December and Munster on the 31st of December followed after that by a crucial game against Ospreys. We have more Champions Cup games coming too but those three games in the PRO12 will have a huge effect on the league table come the end of the season so I’m afraid there will be no parties - it’s all work! “I hope to get down to Roscommon on Christmas Eve but we are training on St. Stephen’s Day so I’ll be back in Galway for that. But I am really enjoying my time with Connacht and we are looking forward to the rest of the season now and hopefully a long run of games free of injury!”

Connacht coach, Pat Lam, pictured with Denis Buckley at a press conference before the Edinburgh game last year, is on his way to Bristol at the end of the season. Pic: David Maher/SPORTSFILE

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Roscommon People Friday 09 December 2016

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