2017 01 06 by Roscommon People

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

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

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Out & About

06 January 2017

The Local Paper

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

JANUARY SALE NOW ON

SEE PAGES 27 & 28

VOLUME: 509

ROSCOMMON’S CLEAN BREAK! Roscommon town was given a New Year boost after finishing in second spot in the 2016 Irish Business Against Litter League.

Tommie KElly Electrical Athleague, Roscommon – 090 6663385 ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

SALE NOW ON

The county town was one of five towns shortlisted for the award from 40 areas nationwide and eventually finished in runner-up spot behind Kildare town. See page 14. FROM €

FROM

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Pictured at the St. Stephen’s Day Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run in Knockcroghery were Ann and Fiona Scally. Picture: Andrew Fox

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CHRISTY CONNOLLY RECOVERY CASTLEREA, CO. ROSCOMMON

Byrne Carolan Cunningham

WHY do you turn to food when you’re not hungry; WHY do you reach for a treat when you’re bored, stressed or to reward yourself.

-----Solicitors-----

Melanie has been maintaining her desired weight for 6 years.

Please see our Column on Page 2 AND Advert INSIDE

CALL: 090 64 79748 Unit 13 Inis Oir, Golden Island, Athlone, Co. Westmeath

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

JANUARY SALE NOW ON Lots of bargains in-store

• APPROVED RECYCLERS OF END OF LIFE VEHICLES • DESTRUCTION CERTS ISSUED • 24/7 RECOVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE NATIONWIDE

CAR SALES & SERVICE SELF DRIVE CAR HIRE AVAILABLE

Season’s greetings to one and all

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

TEL. 094-9622710 / 094 9622244 MOBILE: 086 3685680

Forever after 2016

After - 2010

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NEW YEAR - NEW YOU HEALTY EATING George Foreman Compact Grill ONLY €20

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

QUIT SMOKING IN 2017 One Session Smoking Cessation Therapy €90 CALL BILLY 094 965 9966 086 067 5433 www.motivatehypnosis.com

MGF Electrical Supplies Ltd. Henry Street, Roscommon.

Tel: 090 6625644 Email: Info@mgfelect.com

Wishing all our customers a very Happy and Prosperous New Year • Industrial • Commercial • Domestic

Lanesboro Road, ROSCOMMON ROSCOMMON

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Finishing Touches The Square, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626270

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

CASEY’S ROSCOMMON

Bord na Mona Briquettes

€4 per bale

Flooring/ Furniture

SALE NOW ON ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON

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

POST CHRISTMAS SALE CONTINUES FOR NEXT 10 DAYS See instore for details

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

Painting Services Professional Painters & Decorators

People WATCHING Roscommon is Trump Country…

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

go…and then the ‘Donald’ celebrations can begin in Roscommon… January 20th next is Inauguration Day and readers will be aware that in the recent US Presidential election, Roscommon voted overwhelmingly for Donald Trump.

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

Henry Schwab

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

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

Yoga Classes CLASSES COMMENCE

Tuesday 10th January in The Quad Centre, Roscommon Beginners - 6.45pm • Intermediates - 8pm Course Duration: 6 weeks TO BOOK YOUR PLACE, CALL 086 1598295

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

ust a fortnight to

Wha’?

That’s Roscommon County in Michigan, where the electorate voted as follows: 62.5% for Trump, 32.9% for Hillary Clinton, remainder for fringe candidates. It seems that the ‘American version’ of Roscommon can be relied upon to deliver political upsets just like the ‘real’ Roscommon regularly does!

Gobstopper mystery solved? Oh dear…in the festive-feeling People newsroom, it feels like we may have opened a can of worms, or a can of gobstoppers… When we asked some local politicians to copy their ‘Letter to Santa’ to Roscommon’s most widely-read newspaper, they kindly obliged. Denis Naughten, to whom we extend best wishes this week for a speedy recovery from his weekend mishap, added an intriguing ‘P.S.’ to his letter. Denis wrote to Santa: “If you have any everlasting gobstoppers hanging around your workshop, I could find great use for one or two!” We were absolutely…well,

er…gobsmacked. Has someone being getting on Minister Naughten’s nerves by…going on a bit? Who could Denis possibly have wanted those gobstoppers for? Then we received Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice’s Letter to Santa. It too included a ‘P.S.’ – which read as follows: “The gobstoppers that I got under the tree last year were delicious and I was hoping you might leave a few more this year!” All very mysterious! Anyways, hopefully it will be all sweet-ness and light between Denis and Michael in 2017…

Okay Pat, we know, we know…

ROSCOMMON DRIVING SCHOOL 087 2295551 Road Safety Authority Approved Driving Instructor

Pictured are Lieutenant Colonel Richard Brennan (Kiltoom) and Commandant Ian Kilbride (Kiltoom) at UN Camp 2-45, following the award of the 1916 commemorative medals. Both officers are currently deployed on active service with the 109 Infantry Battalion in South Lebanon as part of the United Nations Interim Force in the Lebanon.

fter all those unfortunate misunderstandings over the years, Pat Spillane was (well, kind of) back in the good books with the Roscommon GAA fraternity when he guested at the recent gala Club Rossie Dinner in the Hodson Bay Hotel. So we can presume that the significantly thawed relations are holding up and that Roscommon GAA fans won’t have taken issue with Spillane’s summary of the 2016 GAA season, as published in last weekend’s Sunday World/and online. Under the heading

‘Lowlights’, Spillane wrote that the drawn Connacht final between Galway and Roscommon was one of the most forgettable matches of the year. Spillane also described Roscommon’s football tactics as one of the lowlights of the season, noting that, having lit up the spring with their wonderful attacking football, Roscommon then went defensive, something which he reckoned the players weren’t happy about. As for the disappointment/flops of the 2016 season? Oops…that – Spillane contended – would have

to be Roscommon, who, he observed, had performed poorly in the championship following such an impressive league campaign. He also listed the performances of New York and Clare against Roscommon as highlights of the season. In all truth, who could argue?

‘I just caught the baby’ We liked this story which appeared on Roscommondaily.com earlier this week: ‘Roscommon native Denis Kelly received a surprise in the early hours of this morning when his partner Áine Laffan gave birth to their son in their kitchen. ‘Denis had been visiting his family in Roscommon and rushed back to Limerick after a call from Áine. Baby Odhran was in a hurry and arrived just after 4.40 am – three weeks early and

ten minutes before the local ambulance could reach their home. ‘Speaking to the Limerick Leader, Áine said “We were hoping for a home birth, but there were complications, so we didn’t think we would get the chance. But in the end, he was born at home.” ‘Denis joked there are a few “midwives in training” in their household now, adding “I just caught the baby.”’

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

CONSUMER RIGHTS I bought a dress a few weeks ago and it cost me €179. I changed my mind when I got home and I returned it to the shop last week and asked for a refund. I kept my receipt which proves that I paid €179 for it. Unfortunately, the store manager refused to refund me the full amount. The dress is now on sale for €99 and he would only refund me the reduced amount of €99. Please confirm the store cannot do this as I have my original receipt proving that’s I paid €179 for the item. Also, I received a birthday gift last week which is faulty but I don’t have the receipt. Can I return it to the shop? Consumers are well protected in Ireland by strong consumer rights. When a consumer purchases an item we are entitled to expect goods to be of merchantable quality, fit for purpose and as described. If they are not, you are entitled to a repair, replacement or refund. If a shop is prepared to offer a refund, rather than a repair or replacement, then your entitlement is to a refund of the full price and not the reduced sale price. However, if you simply change your mind about a purchase a shop is not obliged to take the item back or refund you your money. Some stores may have a policy which offers refunds in respect of “change of mind” items but if so you are only entitled to the reduced sale price and not the original price paid. Such a policy is entirely a gesture of goodwill and not a legal requirement on the shop. With regard to the faulty gift, you will need proof of purchase in order to return it to the shop. The person who bought the item is the one who holds the consumer rights, but if they pass the receipt on to you, then the consumer rights also pass to you, entitling you to a repair, replacement or refund.

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 Compiled by PAUL HEALY

info@bccsolicitors.ie

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

NewsPeople 7th SON FAITH HEALER AIDAN WRYNNE Mohill, Co Leitrim

www.faithhealer.ie

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

is now attending

ROSCOMMON TOWN & BALLAGHADERREEN EVERY MONDAY ALSO HOLDING CLINICS IN COUNTIES WESTMEATH AND LEITRIM Aidan has consistent success in the treatment of: Back pain, arthritis pain, skin rashes, digestive problems, colic/reflux, migraine, warts/verrucas, asthma, sinus and many more

Attack of the Scorpions… In English football, suddenly ‘scorpion goals’ are all the rage. Well, there’s been two anyway. When we ‘talked football’ as schoolkids, overhead kicks were as glamorous as it got. We had never heard of scissors kicks; certainly not scorpions. Now, there’s a new show in town. The

scorpion show. First, Manchester United’s Mkhitaryan scored an amazing scorpion kick against Sunderland. A few days later, Arsenal’s Olivier Giroud scored what I consider was an even better scorpion goal (especially when you take the build-up into account), against Crystal Palace.

Mind you, just about every game is televised these days. Maybe Frank Worthington or Stan Bowles or Peter Osgood were scoring these goals in the 1970s unknown to us! Finally, with Elvis in mind (the 40th anniversary of his death will be this year) I really liked the Irish Independent’s headline: ‘The Wonder of Giroud.’

AIDAN IS HAPPY TO DISCUSS IN CONFIDENCE ANY QUERIES YOU MAY HAVE

Telephone: 071 9631263 or 087 2423405 Email: aidanwrynne@eircom.net

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough & Galway

Tel: 090 647 8433 * MOTOR ACCIDENTS

r ee ouour SSee Column olumn oinn cBusiness ge 2 pa

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

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

newsbriefs Knockcroghery Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party Knockcroghery Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party will be held in Culleen Hall on this Sunday, 8th of January at 2 pm. All are welcome.

Mindfulness classes in Glenamaddy Mindfulness classes will commence at St. Patrick’s Church Sacristy, Glenamaddy (door just adjoining the Convent side of Glenamaddy Parish Church) on Thursday, January 12th. The classes will be conducted by Dr Hubert Murray who has expertise in the field of meditation and mindfulness. The sessions run from 8 pm to 9 pm and everyone is most welcome. This group is suitable for all adults and is an open group. A great way to start the New Year!

Businesses: Reach your target market!

18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

‘Other’ celebrities that 2016 claimed… In the end, it became the norm for everyone to agree on one thing: 2016 had been the most incredible year of all for ‘celebrity deaths.’ Of course we should take this with a pinch of salt. What I think gave this celebrity deaths ‘story’ an…er…life of its own, was the fact that a few of the famous people who passed away were icons renowned and revered all over the world. Major, genuine celebrities. I’m thinking in particular of Muhammad Ali, Prince, David Bowie and George Michael. Then, for those of us who grew up under the influence of British television culture, there was the poignant loss of stars like Terry Wogan, Ronnie Corbett, Paul Daniels, Victoria Wood and Caroline Aherne.

I think it was a very poignant and sad year for ‘celebrity deaths’ but it is appropriate to remember that famous people die every year. What gave 2016 its ‘grim reaper versus celebrities’ status is the fact that three or four of those who died were megastars, a resulting media hype, and the growing trend of social media users paying tribute to each passing death. The online tributes were almost always genuine but it is a new phenomenon and it is a hype of its own. There were no keyboard mourners when Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley or John Wayne died. So I think that while 2016 was certainly a ‘bad year’ for celebrity deaths, I don’t think the end of the world is coming or that celebrities are jinxed; celebrities

die every year, this was just a bad year and one which featured some particularly notable losses. I might add the great Leonard Cohen and the wonderful Gene Wilder to those I’ve already named, and I was also saddened recently when Andrew Sachs, who played Manuel so wonderfully in Fawlty Towers, died. I had no intention of adding my tuppence worth on celebrity deaths this week, but when I went online I was intrigued to see the names of some of the ‘other’ celebrities we lost, apart that is from the particularly high profile ones. Here are a few people whom we also lost and whose deeds we will remember… Garry Shandling was the gifted star of the Larry Sanders Show;

Earl Hamner Junior was the creator of The Waltons and a writer on the wonderful ‘Twilight Zone’; David Gest, while utterly eccentric, was a likeable reality TV star who worked with Michael Jackson and was ex-husband of Liza Minelli; John Berry of the Beastie Boys; Burt Kwouk, the actor who used to get beaten up by Peter Sellers in the Inspector Clouseau films; Scotty Moore, guitarist with Elvis; Robert Vaughn, star of the Man from U.N.C.L.E.; Florence Henderson, the mother in The Brady Bunch; and on New Year’s Eve, we lost William Christopher, who played Fr. Mulcahy in M*A*S*H. There were many more, as you may have heard. They will be fondly remembered.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

NewsPeople HEARTFELT CARDIO SCREENING BY BPRO About Heartfelt Cardio Screening

Can Save Your Life

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

Tuesday 10th January 2017 - Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone Tuesday 17th January 2017 - Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone Tuesday 24th January 2017 - Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone TIME: 10.45am until LATE COST: €50 per person or €90 per couple

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

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

necessary. The procedure is non-invasive and completely pain-free. The cost of an individual BPro test is €50 per adult with a 10% discount (€90) for a couple. There is also a 20% discount for groups of 12 or more people e.g. Sports Clubs, Business Screening etc. Heartfelt Cardio Screening will bring the Bpro to the Prince of Wales Hotel in Athlone on the following dates: Tuesday 10th, 17th and 24th January from 10.45 am. Appointments are essential and are available from 10.45am until late. For further information or to make an appointment, please contact: Anna on 086 413 5555 or Jimmy on 0862 566 422 Email: heartfeltcardioscreening@ gmail.com Website: http://www. bproheartfeltcardioscreening.com

––––––––––––––––––––––––– Advertorial –––––––––––––––––––––––––

A new look and a new face at Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone

lready sitting pretty on the banks of the majestic Shannon, the Marina Suite at Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone has had a head to toe makeover, making it the ultimate destination for a romantic wedding in the heart of the country. Interior designers QuinnCasey & Company have lovingly preened and polished the plans for the ballroom and it is ready for blushing brides and grooms-to-be to admire on January 22nd at the Wedding Showcase at Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone. Think soft French greys, royal navy and warm, rich golden hues the perfect backdrop for your 2017 celebration. Along with a brand new look is news of a brand new wedding coordinator to carefully guide couples through the planning process of their big day at Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone. Aishling McConn joined the team at Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone at the end of 2016. Having studied Hotel & Catering Management at GMIT,

Aishling McConn is the new Meeting and Event Executive at Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone.

Aishling went on to work in Double Tree by Hilton, Burlington Road as part of the events team and from there moved to the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon as the Weddings and Events

Executive. Speaking about her recent appointment as Meeting and Event Executive at Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone, Aishling said: “I’m thrilled to join the team

here at Radisson. The hotel is going through an extensive refurbishment, which is really exciting to be part of. The initial phase of this was to completely refurbish the Marina Suite so it’s wonderful for me as the Meeting & Event Executive to have a brand new space to show couples interested in a wedding on the banks of the Shannon. We really look forward to welcoming anyone interested in getting married with us here at Radisson to our Wedding Showcase on the 22nd of January.” The Wedding Showcase at Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone takes place on Sunday, January 22nd from 2 pm to 5 pm in the newly-refurbished Marina Suite with canapés on arrival and a selection of wedding suppliers attending on the day for hints and tips to make any wedding wonderful! For more information contact: Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone on 090 644 2600 or log onto www.radissonblu. ie/hotel-athlone or find us on facebook, facebook. com/radissonathlone.

Christmas boost for Scoil Mhuire, Brusna Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins has said it is extremely positive that Scoil Mhuire, Brusna, Ballaghaderreen is to receive funding for mechanical works which will involve improvements to the heating system in the school under the Emergency Work Programme. Senator Hopkins said: “I have been in constant contact with Minister for Education Richard Bruton TD on the need for funding to progress necessary works on the heating system in the

school. I have been working closely with staff and management in order to advocate strongly for this funding as it is essential that a safe and warm environment is provided so that pupils can learn best.” Senator Hopkins concluded: “Our schools are at the heart of our local communities, I am delighted to see them receive this vital funding to allow them to conduct their teaching in a safe and modern environment.”

Pictured taking part in the Western Alzheimer’s St. Stephen’s Day Charity Walk were Katie Ellis, Monica Ellis and Sarah Ellis. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

NewsPeople

Minister Naughten due to leave hospital today Is expected to make full recovery following accident < AUDREY HEALY

Denis Naughten (pictured taking part in a Charity Cycle in Roscommon in 2015) is a keen and regular cyclist.

The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Denis Naughten, is expected to be discharged from University Hospital Galway today (Thursday) following treatment for injuries sustained in a traffic accident last Monday. It is understood that Mr. Naughten suffered minor back injuries after he was struck by a car while out cycling with his wife on Monday. The collision happened

on a stretch of road between Roscommon town and Fuerty just before 1 pm. There were reports that the 43-year-old Roscommon/Galway TD had to wait up to an hour before an ambulance arrived to the scene. He was taken to Portiuncula Hospital in Ballinasloe. It is understood that Minister Naughten spent several hours on a trolley in the hospital. Having been kept overnight in Portiuncula Hospital Minister Naughten

was transferred to University Hospital Galway for further tests on Tuesday. As we went to press on Wednesday evening he was due to spend a second night in University Hospital Galway but is expected to be discharged today (Thursday). A source says that Minister Naughten is “fine” and will make a full recovery. His wife, Mary, was uninjured. Gardai are conducting an investigation into Monday’s accident.

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Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

NewsPeople

CASTLEREA COMMUNITY PLAYSCHOOL are currently taking registrations for the ECCE FREE YEAR If your child was born between 1st January 2012 to 31st December 2013, he/she is now entitled to enter this scheme. If your child was born between 1st January 2012 – 31st March 2014, he/she will be entitled to join the ECCE Scheme in April 2017.

Fitzmaurice: ‘We need to ask hard questions on broadband’ Independent TD for Roscommon-Galway Michael Fitzmaurice has said that the National Broadband Plan that is being rolled out by Government must ensure that every home has access to quality broadband services. Deputy Fitzmaurice has called into question the feasibility of the NBP (National Broadband Plan) and whether it will deliver what it promises. “Minister Denis Naughten and his Department have embarked upon an ambitious plan

for broadband services that is commendable but we have to ask, is it achievable? Given how close we are to completing the tendering process and awarding the contracts, we need to ask the hard and uncomfortable questions. “Already this year we have had the plan reviewed and found that 170,000 premises were categorised incorrectly. What if, during the roll-out of the plan, there are more premises found to have been incorrectly categorised; who’s going to pick up the tab and who is go-

ing to deliver broadband to these homes and businesses? “In Comreg’s Q3 report, only published last week, it showed no increase in the number of premises connected with fibre. Despite all the launches and press statements from Eir and Siro in respect of FTTH (Fibre to the Home) either no one can avail of this service or no one is signing up. If huge players like these can’t get this working in built-up areas, how can it work in rural Ireland?” he asks.

We have a limited number of spaces available so get in touch to ensure your child can avail of their place.

One of our stimulating playrooms.

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You can call Sinead anytime on 086 1671 085 or 094 96 20317 for more information.

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Pictured at the St. Stephen’s Day Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run in Knockcroghery were Aisling O’Grady, Rachel Corcoran, Therese Gately, Emer Carolan and Sandra McDermott. Picture: Andrew Fox

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 45-day 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 include “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 is a really good feeling.”

Megan Munnelly, BSc 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.

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.

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Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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Time Pieces All-Ireland award winning shop known as ‘an Aladdin’s Cave’

info@timepieces.ie www.timepieces.ie

Main Street, Roscommon. Tel. 090 6625408

ANNUAL SALE – 20% OFF ALL STOCK

STARTS FRIDAY 6th JANUARY TO SATURDAY 14th JANUARY

Open: Monday-Thursday, 10-6 pm; Friday-Saturday10-6.30 pm We would like to thank everyone for their custom throughout 2016 and wish everyone a Healthy and Happy New Year

Time Pieces’ Annual Sale – the sale you’ve been waiting for! 20% discount off all stock at renowned shop The national award-winning shop, Time Pieces, in Roscommon town, is hosting a massive annual sale from Friday 6th to Saturday 14th of January inclusive. Time Pieces, a leader in its field, was established in 1992 and known since then as “an Aladdin’s Cave”, is a delightful shop featuring a wonderful array of items, many of them unusual and unique, all of them eye-catching and appealing. Time Pieces boasts a wonderful selection of gifts in stock including an amazing selection of jewellery and accessories. Antique clocks adorn the walls, amid paintings, mirrors and prints from local artists. Located on Main Street in

the heart of Roscommon town, this family business is full of character and old-world elegance. Once you walk through the door, you experience the calm, friendly ambience that is Time Pieces. A dazzling array of hand-picked jewellery and fashion accessories is displayed beautifully among carefully selected antiques and paintings, chandeliers, mirrors, lamps, dolls, dolls houses and other decorative objects. The Time Pieces philosophy is to stock items not generally available elsewhere, with something to please every age and pocket – and they are proud to have happy customers of all ages! Great care is taken to include a selection of Irish-made

crafts, pottery, paintings including local crafts made in County Roscommon. Everyone is welcome at Time Pieces where shoppers are encouraged to browse at leisure in a relaxing, friendly atmosphere. Their personal touch is their hallmark. As a token of appreciation for the loyalty and support of their customers over the years, Time Pieces are offering a discount of 20%. It should be noted that sales at Time Pieces are different from many others in that the 20% discount applies to every item of stock in the shop, not just on ‘selected items’. Time Pieces gift vouchers are especially attractive also in that they have no expiry date. Time Pieces is open Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 6 pm. For further information, contact the store on 090-6625408, email info@timepieces.ie or log onto www.timepieces. ie. Please like and share us on Facebook at Time Pieces Roscommon.

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Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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€30m sports grants scheme Restored tractor for rafﬂe on Saturday night Proceeds for Haiti project The 60-year-old Massey Ferguson tractor which was recently restored by brothers John and Berney Higgins with the expert help of retired mechanic, Luke Cox will be raffled this Saturday night in The Central Bar, Roscommon (event begins at circa 9.30 pm). The trio have now completed the beautiful restoration of the vehicle. Proceeds from the raffle

will go directly towards the Child of Haiti charity which is being supported by a number of locals. Towards the end of last year a number of volunteers from the Roscommon region travelled to Haiti to work on a school project and a number of them will be returning there during Easter 2017 as further support is urgently needed. Speaking to the Roscommon People last Novem-

ber, John Higgins, one of the Haiti volunteers, explained that Ronan Collier had kindly donated the tractor to PJ Maher in Ballyleague. When PJ was not in a position to travel to Haiti he passed the tractor on to John and his brother, Berney. They took it to Luke Cox, who was amazed to discover that he had worked on the very same tractor over forty years ago. The tractor, a 1955 Massey Ferguson TE 20 (Diesel) has now been

beautifully restored. Raffle tickets (€10 each, 6 for €50) are available from John and Berney Higgins in Tulsk, Padraic Deane in Roscommon and/or in The Central on Saturday night. The winner will also have the option of choosing a cash alternative of €4,000 instead of the tractor. Saturday night’s big raffle will be the centrepiece of what promises to be a very enjoyable social evening, with music by local musicians. All are welcome.

Minister Denis Naughten has confirmed that a total of €30 million is being made available under the Government’s Sports Capital Programme to develop sports infrastructure across the country, which will significantly benefit clubs in Roscommon and Galway. Minister Naughten confirmed that online applications will be accepted from 23rd of January24th of February 2017 but urged clubs not previously registered to do so in advance of formally submitting their applications during that period. “Clubs not previously registered on the Department of Sport’s online application system need to do so ahead of January 23rd,” stated Minister Naughten. He also encouraged clubs across the county to register over the Christmas period and be ready to apply when the applications open. A guide to

making an application is being published on the Department’s Sports Capital Programme website (www.sportscapitalprogramme.ie). “The sports capital grants are now being allocated on an annual basis and the application process has been made more user-friendly and simpler,” explained Minister Naughten, who also confirmed the application form has been shortened with new guides for completing it. A series of regional workshops are being planned in the New Year to help clubs with their applications. Clubs who need to register on the Department of Sport’s online system can do so now at www.sportscapitalprogramme.ie. Once registered, all applications must be made on the same website. A guide to making an application and a link to YouTube video instructions is also

available on the website. Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins has encouraged clubs and sports organisations across Roscommon and Galway to prepare for the application process and register online now. Senator Hopkins stated that it is very important that clubs and organisations benefit as much as possible from this funding. She is encouraging all involved to prepare the necessary paperwork for their applications in advance. Senator Hopkins said: “I know from working with sporting clubs and organisations that this funding is extremely important to our communities in order to encourage people of all ages to engage in physical activity and help their overall wellbeing. I will continue to work with groups in assisting them in making applications for this new round of Sports Capital funding.”

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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From My Kitchen Table

newsbriefs

MIRIAM KERINS

He Put the Boom Boom into my Heart! W

ell he certainly ‘put the boom, boom into my heart,’ and his smouldering good looks, sense of style and velvety voice ‘jitterbugged’ straight into my brain back in 1984, when, as a very young wife and mother I fell head over heels in love with George Michael, his music and (later), his two-fingered salute to those who took the moral high ground and tried to humiliate him when, in 1998, he was so publicly outed for performing the now famous ‘lewd act’ in a loo inside a Beverly Hills park; forcing him to reveal his sexuality to the world. If I remember correctly the singer was fined £500 and given 80 hours of community service to complete. And so, in a year where the music/ acting industry has lost some of its biggest and most talented individuals, including David Bowie, Prince, Rick Parfitt, Carrie Fisher, Debbie Reynolds, the amazing Alan Rickman and the genius that was Gene Wilder, I have to say the Wham! frontman’s sudden death, the artist and multitalented icon who gave us one of the most-loved and best-known songs of the festive season, was the one that has affected me the most. According to reports the supreme George Michael, aged 53, tragically ‘died alone’ on Christmas morning amid claims, (which have been denied by his legal representatives), that he had been ‘battling heroin addiction.’ Whatever the circumstances of his demise and sudden death, the news has left me (and

The late George Michael

fans across the globe) deeply shocked and saddened. Although he became less and less visible over the past few years, I believe that George Michael’s virtuosity, his enduring humanity and philanthropic ways will live on and go down in history. However, it has to be said his selfdeprecating humour also stood out. Diehard fans like me will fondly remember when, instead of issuing a cringing, fawning apology at the feet of those who tried to shame him for being gay, George poked fun at himself and his sexcapades by making absolutely no attempt to blend in; instead

he embraced the full spectrum of what it meant to be himself. Of course I’m talking about his bravery in the face of adversity and malicious tabloid headlines when, rather than allowing the finger-pointers and their medieval posturings of outrage to humiliate him for his sexuality and lifestyle, George, dressed superbly in an LAPD cop’s uniform, magnificently satirised his arrest, in fact, he reclaimed it, and penned one of his greatest hits, the fabulous disco dance track ‘Outside’, (included on my favourite album Ladies & Gentlemen: The Best of George Michael) and brazenly, un-

January Sales? More like the Hunger Games!

s a kid I can distinctly remember a mini-break, (for the sake of decency), between Christmas Day and the onset of the January sales…or am I just doting? Now however, on what, in our house, has become the traditional sitting-onyer-a**e-rummaging-through-the-tinof-Roses-watching-Indiana-Jones-anddraining-the-bottles-of-wine-day, aka St. Stephen’s Day, has apparently been re-claimed the official January Sales Day with retailers going mad offloading all their cheap c**p us shoppers couldn’t be bothered to buy before Christmas! This is the day mild-mannered people morph into football hooligans, high on their riot fix as they belt old ladies out of their way, trample on kiddies and totally forget about all those bills they

ignored over the festive season; their one goal, to max out the credit card on designer clothes small enough to fit only a foetus. Okay, I agree that on the surface, we may seem convinced we’ll hit the gym this month, but seriously readers, we’ve assaulted our livers and blitzed our brains with all sorts of junk over the month of December and no amount of good intentions is going to shift those EU butter mountain butt cheeks before February, and while we all know that the words ‘75 per cent off’ is like catnip to sales obsessed shoppers, now is the time to step away from the size zero dress because it’s only a bargain if you can actually fit into it!

apologetically declared war on those who wished to have him (and others like him) sanitised and locked firmly back into the closet. This stand alone, a stand which disgracefully gave haters a platform to further express their revulsion, fear and loathing at how unsavoury and foul they deduced gay people to be, only served to make a smitten me, and probably every other woman on the planet, fancy him even more…despite the fact we knew, that devastatingly, we would never have a chance with him. George Michael was a true inspiration and has left us with a legacy that reaches way beyond his music. He shone a light and showed people that, in a time when it was shamefully condemned, it was (and is) perfectly okay to be gay. George Michael may have died too young but his gifts and his legacies will live on. In the words of your hit Freedom! ’90, George, you were not just ‘every little hungry schoolgirl’s pride and joy,’ you were (and still are…sincere apologies to the hubby; but he’ll get over it) this infatuated woman’s secret fantasy, because, from the moment I tuned into MTV in the ‘80s, set eyes on you and heard you sing, I confess, my own, ‘beats per minute never been the same.’ I admire you even more now given the tales of your posthumous ‘coming out’ as a secret philanthropist, humanitarian and quietly generous compassionate soul. Sleep well; I truly hope the grey skies are (now) out of your way.

Strike a pose…get an OBE! She has fashion nous, fame and fortune, oh and (according to www. bbc.com) an OBE…well, remaining po-faced and looking like a set of teeth in a suit for the past 20 years is an honours-worthy achievement… apparently. Okay, Victoria Beckham has certainly done a lot for charitable causes and to be honest she’s ‘created’ (stop sniggering, apparently she does personally fabricate her head-turning looks), some award-winning designs, and she’s rake thin…sorry, I mean raking it in…the moolah that is, with her VB empire. However, while I’d much rather my girls took inspiration from the likes of Ms. Beckham than those eejit Kardashians, I don’t see why she should receive an accolade for simply doing her job…and while I also wish I could afford even one of her VB designs, I have to say Coco Chanel she ain’t! Look, doing charitable work is highly commendable, (we all do it), but

couldn’t a ‘well done’ have sufficed? I mean, aren’t there other devoted subjects more worthy of the royal plaudit? Just askin’. Have an amazing 2017 folks.

In PJ’s, Castlecoote to meet Santa were Anna Murray and Aideen O’Brien. Picture: Andrew Fox

Cookery Demo with Neven Maguire A cookery demonstration with Neven Maguire will take place in Kilronan Castle on Wednesday, 1st of March at 8 pm. There will be complimentary wine and a canape reception from 7 pm with an opportunity to browse the local produce and craft stands. There will also be a raffle on the night with great prizes to be won. Proceeds are in aid of Ardcarne Community Childcare Services and Cootehall National School. Tickets will cost €20 and are on sale now from the hotel reception.

New cemetery for Fairymount – Creaton At the December meeting of Roscommon County Council agreement was reached on the development of a new cemetery at Fairymount. Cllr. Michael Creaton welcomed the progress on this issue and said that “at last work can now proceed on the project in the New Year.” He noted that as there were no new grave spaces left in the old graveyard, families were forced to travel to Tibohine for burial. Cllr. Creaton said he would like to thank the staff in the roads section of the Council who are working on this issue.

Roscommon Upcycling Competition Prize-giving day for the Upcycling Competition turned out to be a very colourful and interesting event. The competition was organised by Roscommon County Council in conjunction with ICA guilds throughout the county. There were over 30 fantastic entries on the day and the winners were: Marie Donlon, Violet Hill Knockcroghery Guild; Marian Brennan, Violet Hill Knockcroghery Guild; Lynn Naughton, Roscommon Guild and Moira Doyle, Drumboylan Guild. Tony Ward, Chairman of Roscommon County Council presented the prizes. Monica Beegan, Roscommon ICA Federation President, thanked Suzanne Dempsey for selecting ICA for this year’s competition and Michelle Fallon for visiting all guilds and giving displays of her innovative ideas. She also thanked Roscommon ICA Guild for hosting the event.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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ETL wins Best Dressed Christmas Window award… Eight Til Late (ETL), Roscommon were winners of the Best Dressed Christmas Window sponsored by AIB Roscommon. Picture shows Liam Flannery, Business Advisor, AIB, presenting a cheque for €250 to Gillian Molloy and Marie Jameson of Eight Til Late, who dressed the window. Also in picture is Rita Oates. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Wedding Showcase January 15th from 12-5pm

SHEARWATER HOTEL MARINA POINT, BALLINASLOE, CO. GALWAY

To make an appointment for a wedding viewing Call 090 9630400 Email: weddings@shearwaterhotel.com Website: www.shearwaterhotel.com/weddings

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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Roscommon town claims runners-up spot in anti-litter (IBAL) awards < DAN DOONER

Finishing as runners-up, Roscommon town has claimed its highest ever ranking in the Irish Business Against Litter League, the results of which were announced earlier this week. Set up in 1996, Irish Business Against Litter is an alliance of companies sharing a belief that continued economic prosperity – notably in the areas of tourism, food and direct foreign investment - is contingent on a clean, litter-free environment. Roscommon town was one of five towns from 40 areas nationwide shortlisted for the award, eventually claiming second spot behind Kildare town. Nine out of ten of the locations around the town surveyed received a top litter rating in what is a tremendous achievement for local volunteers and the local authority. The nine locations to receive a ‘Grade A’ were: Loughnaneane Park and Roscommon Castle; the access path to Loughnaneane Park; Main Street; St. Ciaran’s Park; Recycle Bank at Tesco; Harrison Centre; L1812 Curraghboy approach road; derelict premises on Church Street and the R366 approach road.

The N63 road to Longford received a ‘Grade B’. Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher, Chairperson of Roscommon Tidy Towns, was delighted with the announcement but urged Roscommon town residents to redouble efforts in order to maintain the high standard. “It was good to be in the top five but to finish in second place is great. Maintaining that now is the next thing and this is very important as this is judged throughout the year. We never know when the judges are here,” she said. Cllr Shanagher also paid glowing tribute to those who had worked hard in order to maintain the town. “The County Council, Tidy Towns, Chamber of Commerce and local residents have been fantastic and we are fortunate that we all work well together,” she said, before singling out Roscommon County Council litter warden Annette Donlon and outdoor staff for special praise. “The outdoor staff are fantastic and of course our litter warden, Annette. I was also delighted to hear that Michael Ryan is back in the van too! Of course the hard work of the volunteers in Tidy Towns is important also.” Highlighting the impor-

tance of maintaining Roscommon’s clean status, Cllr. Shanagher appealed to local people to make that extra effort to keep their areas tidy. “This is good for the town and it’s important for tourism and in order to attract people into the town. When people hear that Roscommon is a clean area then they may make more of an effort to come to the town. “I’d urge people to look after their own areas and that way we can keep Roscommon tidy,” she said. Cllr. Shanagher also took the opportunity to highlight the issue of public bins in the town being used for household waste and urged homeowners to dispose of waste responsibly.

Cllr. Kathleen Shanagher of Roscommon County Council receiving Roscommon town’s scroll from Conor Horgan of IBAL.

Politicians hail IBAL win < DAN DOONER

Local public representatives have welcomed news of Roscommon town’s recent Irish Business Against Litter League success. The town claimed its highest ever finish, taking runners-up spot behind Kildare town. The Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Denis Naughten has praised

the people of Roscommon and the local authority for their hard work. “I have been honoured over the past six months to have been invited by a number of Roscommon schools to raise green flags which has demonstrated to me the commitment of pupils, staff and the wider community of the county to tackling environmental issues including litter, and the outcome of this survey serves only to con-

Pictured taking part in the Western Alzheimer’s St. Stephen’s Day Charity Walk were Trisha, Tadhg, Paudie and Seamus Duignan. Picture: Andrew Fox

firm that this is indeed the case. Ultimately this achievement reflects the actions of the people of Roscommon town who, in ensuring that they dispose of waste and litter properly, help to preserve and protect the environment for all of us to enjoy. Warmest congratulations to all involved, and keep up the good work in Roscommon in 2017,” he said. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice de-

scribed the success as “a tribute to the great work carried out by the tidy towns group”. He added: “The local authority and the business community along with the local tidy towns group have worked very hard on this over the years and they have been rewarded with second place out of a total of 40 areas nationwide that were surveyed this year which is a tremendous achievement.”

Pictured taking part in the Western Alzheimer’s St. Stephen’s Day Charity Walk were Fay, Nev and Anna McCormack. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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Glasson Country House Hotel and Golf Club – A wedding venue with a difference! I

f you are looking for a wedding hotel with a difference, with stunning panoramic lake views and superb food, then you have to pay a visit to Glasson Country House Hotel and Golf Club. Situated just outside the quaint village of Glasson, the hotel could be your ideal wedding venue. Your wedding party and guests start off with magnificent views over the inner lakes of Lough Ree and the golf course as you drive down the avenue, with its ancient beech trees. The arrivals reception room, offering privacy for your guests, has a unique feeling of spaciousness and light created by the

floor-to-ceiling glass and the feature spiral staircase. It is the perfect entrance to the purpose-built banqueting suite upstairs. In addition to the floor-to-ceiling glass, there is a spacious balcony on which you can relax after your delicious meal, designed to make the most of the superb panoramic views. Let the wedding experts at Glasson help you arrange your special day – they are more than happy to tailor their sample packages to suit your own particular requirements. Your wedding guests can enjoy four-star luxury with the added bonus of being able to choose from a private cruise, a

game of golf, or an on-site massage for the day after! Glasson Country House Hotel has been receiving consistently excellent feedback, and you are invited to carry out your own research on websites such as www. tripadvisor.ie or www.weddingsonline.ie. Glasson recently won the prestigious ‘Travellers’ Choice 2015 Winner’ Award. The whole team at Glasson are committed to looking after each and every wedding couple as well as their families and guests! The Glasson Country House Hotel philosophy is shaped by the fact that the venue remains a family owned and managed property.

Confirm your booking at Glasson and you can relax knowing they will take care of your every need on your special day. For more information call the hotel on 090 6485120, email info@glassoncountryhouse.ie to arrange a private viewing, or log on towww.glassoncountryhouse. ie to register your wedding enquiry details. Do get in contact with us, and we would be delighted to have the opportunity to show you around the premises and to discuss your own specific preferences in more detail – we’re here to help you enjoy this very special time in your lives!

Weddings Lim numb ited er Summ of Key er 20 Dates 17 availa ble

Michael Fitzmaurice TD and Minister Shane Ross

Fitzmaurice wants Ross to tackle Roscommon roads! Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has called on Transport Minister Shane Ross, his former Independent Alliance colleague, to provide funding for roads in Roscommon and Galway which are in need of repair. Deputy Fitzmaurice welcomed a report this week which reveals that there could be up to 10,000 kilometres of rural roads in need of repair. He said the report underlines the need for Minister Ross to come up with a realistic and viable plan to tackle this problem as soon as possible. “Included in the report is the fact that there are many roads in Roscommon and Galway in need of repair and I am calling on Minister Ross to stand up to the plate on this issue. When the estimates are published in the middle of the year I will be calling for the Minister

to put in place a realistic plan to tackle these local regional and secondary roads so they can be repaired over a number of years. The amount of money allocated for the repair of local roads has been cut in half since 2008 and it is time to put a new plan in place to address this situation” he said. “There is another and very important aspect to this problem in that the Road Safety Authority are constantly (and rightly) highlighting driver behaviour like speeding, drink-driving and other offences which lead to accidents. However the poor state of some of the roads around the country are never mentioned and it is certain that in some cases it is a factor in the cause of accidents too. This is an issue that I will be taking up with Minister Ross at the earliest opportunity,” he concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

NewsPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION An “epiphany” is an appearance. In today’s readings, with their rising stars, splendorous lights and mysteries revealed, the face of the child born on Christmas day appears. Herod, in today’s Gospel, asks the chief priests and scribes where the Messiah is to be born. The answer Matthew puts on their lips says much more, combining two strands of Old Testament promise – one revealing the Messiah to be from the line of David (see 2 Samuel 2:5), the other predicting “a ruler of Israel” who will “shepherd his flock” and whose “greatness shall reach to the ends of the earth” (see Micah 5:1-3). Those promises of Israel’s king ruling the nations resound also in today’s Psalm. The psalm celebrates David’s son, Solomon. His kingdom, we sing, will stretch “to the ends of the earth,” and the world’s kings will pay Him homage. That’s the scene too in today’s First Reading, as nations stream from the East, bearing “gold and frankincense” for Israel’s king. The Magi’s pilgrimage in today’s Gospel marks the fulfillment of God’s promises. The Magi, probably Persian astrologers, are following the star that Balaam predicted would rise along with the ruler’s staff over the house of Jacob (see Numbers 24:17). Laden with gold and spices, their journey evokes those made to Solomon by the Queen of Sheba and the “kings of the earth” (see 1 Kings 10:2,25; 2 Chronicles 9:24). Interestingly, the only other places where frankincense and myrrh are mentioned together are in songs about Solomon (see Song of Songs 3:6, 4:6,14). One greater than Solomon is here (see Luke 11:31). He has come to reveal that all peoples are “co-heirs” of the royal family of Israel, as today’s Epistle teaches. His manifestation forces us to choose: Will we follow the signs that lead to Him as the wise Magi did? Or will we be like those priests and the scribes who let God’s words of promise become dead letters on an ancient page? – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory. com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

newsbriefs Oran Gets Active Oran Gets Active is up and running for the second year. The 8-week programme boasts a weekly fitness regime with Ciara McDonnell, led by Noel Feeley and his team at Roscommon Sports Partnership. The programme is timed to coincide with RTE’s Operation Transformation and offers an optional weigh-in and waist circumference measurements at the start, midway and end of the programme. There will be talks to participants on various health and wellbeing topics including podiatry, nutrition and combating stress. McGuinness TotalHealth Pharmacy in Roscommon Town is offering free health checks to those registered including blood pressure checks, weight checks and cholesterol checks. The pharmacy is also offering a prize to whoever loses the most weight. All this is available for just €50. You also get a beanie hat and hi-vis jacket upon registration and a t-shirt ahead of the grand finale 5km/ and 10 km run/walk on 25th of February. Oran Gets Active is a brainchild of Oran Healthy Clubs and is open to anyone over the age of 16. It is a real community event with an emphasis on inclusion so no matter how fit or unfit you may feel Oran Gets Active will fit you. For more information call Michelle on 087-4648437.

FRANKLY

SPEAKING

FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

Home thoughts from on top of the mountain… I

t’s the third day of the New Year, and, along with thousands of others, I am back at work after a most enjoyable Christmas break; in fact, I was back for a couple of days last week, but, in truth, while my greatly inflated body (due to the Christmas excesses) was in Athlone, my mind was still on Christmas things, and it really was only a token presence. Today, however, the whole feeling is different, and while technically it’s still the festive season until January 6th or Little Christmas, in reality, it’s all over, and normality, thankfully, has returned. Christmas morning found me heading for the 10 o’clock Mass in the most beautifully situated Donamon Castle, and the ceremony with Fr. Pat Hogan was just so uplifting, and, as on every Christmas morning, the musical recital by Annette Griffin, her mother, Frances, on keyboard, and John Staunton, on guitar, was absolutely wonderful, and worth travelling many miles for. In the course of his Homily Fr. Pat paid tribute to the amazing Fr. Norman Davitt, who will be ordained for 70 (not a typing error: it really is seventy) years in 2017, and, in his mid-nineties, is still a regular sight all around the area, and an example to us all. Congrats Fr. Norman, and well done, and here’s to many more years amongst us. Back home then for the turkey, and all that sort of thing, and, for me, thoughts turned to the Barrie Harris Walk on St. Stephen’s morning, and, abstaining from all alcohol, I was in bed early enough, to be all set for the morning. And, after a fairly wild Christmas Day, it was an absolute delight to wake up to a bright, fresh, dry day, and, as I headed off on the up, down, and round the mountain walk, all was well in my own private world. The official starting time is 12.30 pm, but I try to get away before 10 o’clock, mainly because I don’t want to be holding up anyone who might walk with me, but also because I like to talk to myself (not literally), and to use the glorious mountain air to try and clear my head. And, as I headed off, aided by the magnificent birch stick that young Sean Roarke gave me last year, I thought about, amongst other things, the great benefit that modern medicine has been to me. Way back in 2001, when just in my 50s, I was unable to do the walk, due to the state of my two hips, and, in truth, I had resigned myself to spending the rest of my life in pain, and really thought I would never again walk across the top of the mountain. Thankfully, two hips and five stents later, and off I went, thanking God, and the various medical personnel, who have turned my life around. As always, I had a couple of unofficial pit stops, which were much appreciated on my way round, before I arrived at the home of Mary Devaney and her family, where the door has been open to every one of the walkers since the very first walk, and where the most amazing array of goodies is laid on, to keep body and soul together, before we continue on what can often be our merry way – particularly if you had sampled any of the numerous hot toddies that were available. On then to my brother Billy’s, where, being the first of the many guests that were to call during the day, I made huge inroads into the wonderful homemade pigs in blankets, that were placed, inadvertently, beside me, and, by the time I left, I

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk on St. Stephen’s Day were Bridie and Claire Raftery. Picture: Andrew Fox

had certainly replaced any weight I might have lost on the five or six mile walk. The annual celebrations, enlivened by the musical brilliance of Castlerea’s Simon Cooke, went on well into the night, and, what made the whole thing even more special was the huge number of people who took part in this, the 22nd annual walk – some experienced observers, myself included, reckoned the number of participants this year definitely equalled, and maybe even surpassed, the numbers recorded any year since the walk began. Back to my walk across the top of the mountain, and, with the lovely day that was in it, and as I looked down on the village that has been my home for nearly all my life, it was hard not to think of old times, and the many changes that our village has seen in those sixty-plus years. Some are bad, in that we have lost a lot of businesses, including pubs, shops, library, and a forge, to name a few, but we have also gained a few, including two thriving garages, a chip shop and a number of vibrant home-based businesses. However, as I walked, I realised that in all those years, and indeed an awful lot longer, one business has remained the same – readers of this column know it as Mikeen’s, but in fact it is Roarke’s (without an O) – a business that was started in Creggs more than a hundred years ago, by Michael Roarke, and, in the meantime it has been carried on very successfully by two more Michael Roarkes, Mick as we always call him, and now Mikeen. Roarke’s has been synonymous with Creggs all

my life, and, in these challenging times, it was great to think about the contribution of the family, for so many years, and it is somehow comforting to see the same name over the door, a century on since it first went up. The other thing that struck me, was how lucky we are, and, indeed events all over the world since then have proved it even more, with the nightclub massacre in Turkey and the many deaths caused by the suicide bombers in Baghdad, and, if I have one New Year wish for you all it’s to live every moment properly, embrace the fact that you have the chance to make a difference, and help those who are less fortunate, and try to have a smile on your face, and not be a long string of misery.

And ﬁnally… Finally for this week, two matters of local interest: firstly, I forgot to congratulate our football manager, Ger Dowd, on winning the Roscommon Herald’s sportstar of the month in December, an honour richly deserved, and, secondly, don’t forget the GAA club’s dinner dance, in the Abbey Hotel, on January 28th, with music by The White Cakes – now where did I see them play recently? And, boy, were they good! A very Happy New Year to you all.

‘Till next week, Bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

NewsPeople

The one that didn’t get away…

Funding boost for angling facilities Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Denis Naughten TD, has announced that two angling development projects in Roscommon have been awarded funding to improve angling access. A total of 50 angling development projects across the country will receive support from Inland Fisheries Ireland to the value of €500,000 as part of its Capital Works Fund. In Roscommon, the following projects were selected to receive funding: Castlecoote Village, Co. Roscommon – Stoneham’s (Linn Ban) Lake Angling Access Infrastructure Development (€28,148) by Suck Valley Development CoOperative Society Ltd. This project will see the redevelopment of old angling infrastructure to include 30 metres of additional angling platform with a view to attracting match angling to the area. The decking will be complete with nonslip boards and a low railing. Emlaghroyan, Co. Roscommon – Corcoran’s Access Path to Angling Pegs (€7,945) by Suck Valley Development Co-Operative Society Ltd. A path will be provided to al-

Minister Denis Naughten

low access by foot to new fishing pegs, which have been installed in the area. Senator Maura Hopkins said that it is very positive that County Roscommon has been successful in securing €36,093 for angling development projects. Senator Hopkins said: “Already this year €89,230 was given to the wheelchair angling project along the Suck Valley Way under the Ru-

ral Recreation Project Scheme. “It is very evident that communities along with River Suck are completing a significant amount of work to develop its potential.” Cllr. Orla Leyden also welcomed the funding. Cllr. Leyden, who submitted applications on behalf of the Suck Valley Development Co-operatives Society Ltd with the Suck Valley Angling Hub and other stakeholders including Cuisle Respite Centre (IWA), Castlecoote Tidy Towns and Kilbegnet Development Association, said that this is a major boost for angling on the River Suck. Cllr. Leyden thanked Bill Cassidy, Chairperson of the Suck Valley Angling Hub for his work on the project at ‘Corcoran’s’. Cllr. Leyden said: “When this IFI funded angling infrastructure is completed in early 2017 at Stoneham’s Lake and ‘Corcoran’s’ it will compliment the 31 accessible bays at Ballinapark, Donamon and provide excellent rotation of daily sections for festivals in the Suck Valley and greatly enhance angling infrastructure along by the River Suck.”

Pictured taking part in the Western Alzheimer’s St. Stephen’s Day Charity Walk were Alison Garvey, Edel Beisty and Roisín Oates. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured taking part in the Western Alzheimer’s St. Stephen’s Day Charity Walk were Pauline Kempin, Abigail and Lee Kempin. Picture: Andrew Fox

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Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

MEMORIES OF 2016

Mugged by Mayo and mud 2016: MEMORIES

DAN DOONER

Mayo at The Hyde: Seamus O’Shea evades the incoming challenge of Enda Smith during the Allianz NFL Division 1 match between Roscommon and Mayo at Dr. Hyde Park last March. Picture: Andrew Fox

he day was Sunday, March 27th and

Roscommon’s fierce rivals, Mayo, were in town for an Allianz NFL Division 1 match at Dr. Hyde Park. The Hyde pitch had been questionable throughout a league campaign which had seen Roscommon recover from a first round defeat to Monaghan (at Kiltoom) to take the division by storm. The Rossies played attractive attacking football beating the likes of Kerry, Cork, Down and Donegal to guarantee their status for 2017. Mayo, on the other hand, were in danger of relegation to Division 2 and needed a win against their next-door neighbours to ease the pressure. I didn’t know it at the time, but my first ever Roscommon match at Dr. Hyde Park would also be my last for a while. The pitch barely made it past inspection and was cut up badly as Mayo outmuscled Roscommon. The result was disappointing but the day as a whole was extremely enjoyable as the build-up created a great buzz in Roscommon town. Part of the Hyde’s appeal is that it’s so central and easily accessible from the middle of town. The pubs and bars along the way were doing a lively trade as we made our way down for throw-in. It was nice to be able to enjoy a couple of pints without worrying about how we were going to get home! There was great banter between both sets of supporters and although Roscommon were beaten, the team provided a ray of hope during a second-half fightback. Hopefully 2017 will see Roscommon play all of their home games at The Hyde and we’ll enjoy more great days out at the county town venue.

John scales the heights

ne of my abiding memories of 2016 2016: MEMORIES will be the arrival of John Tobin at the summit of Croagh Patrick to the sound of a bagpiper. DAN John has cerebral palsy and DOONER is confined to a wheelchair but made his mind up last year that he would climb ‘Ireland’s Holy Mountain’ in order to raise money for local charities. This would be easier said than done, however, as Croagh Patrick had never been ascended by a wheelchair-user before. Fortunately for John, he had expert help from people like Basil Finan, who designed a specially modified wheelchair which was christened ‘John’s Dream Machine’. John was also supported by a committed team of volunteers who would prove crucial in assisting his new chair up the mountain. The Roscommon People had become the ‘Climb With John’ media partner earlier in the summer and so we followed John all the way to the top of Croagh Patrick. It’s a day that this reporter won’t forget in a hurry! Starting out at 6 am, I travelled with the Roscommon Civil Defence who assisted in the climb. It was heart-warming to see the large crowd which turned out to support John and the teamwork throughout the day was something I’d rarely experienced before. All the hard work and toil was worth it as John reached the summit and became the first wheelchair-user to climb Croagh Patrick.

Climb With John: Ann, John and Valerie Tobin pictured on the summit of Croagh Patrick last September. John became the first person in a wheelchair to make the ascent. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

MEMORIES OF 2016

Roscommon People, places and possibilities! 2016: MEMORIES

DAN DOONER

es, 2016 was a busy year at the Roscommon People offices as we covered shows, fairs and other events across the county and beyond. We also went out and about in order to highlight rural Ireland’s fightback against the economic downturn in a series we called ‘People, Places and Possibilities’. It was during the production of these features that I got to meet some of the wonderful characters living in County Roscommon. The county is full of terrific stories but sometimes you have to go digging in order to find them. I’ll never forget my visit to Batty O’Brien’s house just outside Knockcroghery. Batty was once a publican in the village and patiently retold stories from his youth. It was authentic and made for entertaining copy. Elsewhere, Paschal Brennan is a neighbour of mine and I had often heard him belting out old Joe Dolan classics. He is also a fine storyteller and we spent an enjoyable afternoon chatting about his life in music. There were numerous other people who made 2016 an interesting year and plenty of firsts for me as a ‘Jackeen’ reporting in rural Roscommon. At the beginning of last year I had never set foot in a livestock mart, I’ve since become a regular in Roscommon Mart and have even visited

Castlerea too –completely different worlds to Dublin! I’ve also had the pleasure of covering events at the Roscommon Arts Centre where I’ve met some top class performers and artists. Not many towns have such a fantastic venue and it looks as though 2017 will be another busy year on stage there. If 2016 is anything to go by then there should be plenty more interesting stories throughout the next twelve months.

People, places and possibilities: Among the interesting characters I got to meet last year were Lecarrow singer Paschal Brennan (above) and Knockcroghery native, Batty O’Brien (far left).

Facing down the faceless folk! 2016: MEMORIES

PAUL HEALY

ot content with the slow but

devastating dismantling of rural Ireland which they’ve been engaged in for decades, the faceless folk came hunting down a whole section of County Roscommon in 2016. Yes, it was that bad, and that bizarre. In case you’ve missed ‘the story so far’ – or the previous episodes of ‘Attack on rural Ireland’ – here’s a quick recap. For decades, the decline of rural Ireland has been ongoing – some of it inevitable, some of it self-inflicted, but much of it directly or indirectly caused by the political establishment here and in Brussels. It’s over thirty years since Bishops in the West of Ireland felt the need to launch a campaign against what they and others considered was discrimination against this region. However one apportions responsibility, the facts are fairly clear. ‘The West’ has been underdeveloped. We’ve experienced significant depopulation and emigration. Job creation figures for the west are dire when compared with other regions. Historically, we’ve always lagged behind on the infrastructural front. And in recent years, as in the 1980s and early 1990s, our services are under constant threat. Post offices, schools and Garda sta-

tions have closed. Our banks, often given to being reckless, have callously closed branches. Hospitals have been downgraded. Farmers, anglers, small business people, all have felt the cold winds of indifference and neglect blow around them at different times and to different degrees. The faceless folk love tearing up tradition and toying with new ideas. They love working off reports and surveys and figures, and they love looking at the bigger picture. Projections before people. When they formulate their plans, they find it easy to justify the actions that follow. But while they are not always wrong, they often are. And when they are wrong, it is usually because they don’t have a clue about life ‘on the ground’ in the areas they are disrupting – or, if they do know the likely impact of their actions, they don’t care about those consequences. So I can imagine that it makes sense to the ‘faceless folk’ that Garda stations based in areas of low crime levels and where the population is declining should be closed or amalgamated. I imagine too that it makes sense to the ‘faceless folk’ that heart attack patients in Roscommon should be transported ‘down the road’ to Ballinasloe or Galway. And it has to make sense to the ‘faceless folk’ that post offices should be edged towards the cliff in an era when you can ‘do all that stuff’ online. The people who have died – yes, died – because of downgrading of hospitals, closure of Garda stations and stripping away of support services (including in the area of mental health) might argue against the wisdom of these decisions, if they were still alive.

Bishop Kevin Doran addresses a public meeting on the threat to Roscommon’s borders.

Much of the dismantling of rural Ireland has happened because the decision-makers were unaware of or immune to the inconvenience, anguish and hurt that would result.

If the ambulance taking your loved one from rural Roscommon to a chronically overcrowded A&E in Galway is frustrated by heavy traffic, do you hold the patient’s hand and whisper:

“It’s the statistics, the statistics never lie…” Oh yes, back to where I began. This year, ‘they’ came searching for a part of South Roscommon. They speak of city status for Athlone, of the expansion of Monksland, of the need for joined up thinking, for synergies. Maybe some of it makes sense. Maybe it makes a lot of sense on some screen in the plush offices of the faceless folk. ‘According to these projections…’ they will say, and not one of them has heard of Dysart or Dangan. But many of us believe that Athlone and Monksland/South Roscommon can develop by working together – not by striking a knife into the heart of our county. Developing Athlone is fine – but the price should not be what amounted to an attack on a whole section of South Roscommon, with all the implications which the redrawing of Roscommon’s boundaries would have had for the rest of the county. It was crazy – and it was heroically resisted, the Save Roscommon campaign being strongly supported at every turn. The threat has been averted – but it hasn’t gone away, you know. Ultimately, it is the people of County Roscommon and other disadvantaged areas who are best placed to oppose the ongoing threat we face. Of course we don’t just need to oppose – we need to be proactive and we need to provide leadership. It would help if the faceless people stopped every now and again and gave as much thought to people as they do to projections.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

IMAGES OF 2016

LEFT: Bernard Egan pictured at the County Roscommon Ploughing Championships last April. Picture: Andrew Fox RIGHT: John Donlon takes stock of the level of the River Shannon during flooding in January of last year. Picture: Andrew Fox

LEFT: RTE correspondent, Ciaran Mullooly, speculates with MEP Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan at The Hyde Centre in Roscommon town during the General Election count last February. Pic: Andrew Fox RIGHT: Sarah Jane Moran, winner of the Best Dressed Lady Competition and Marietta Doran, judge, pictured at Ladies Day at the Roscommon Races last July. Picture: Andrew Fox

LEFT: Fianna Fáil candidate Eugene Murphy celebrates with fellow Fianna Fáil candidate, Shane Curran (right) and Cllr. Paschal Fitzmaurice following the announcement that he has been elected to Dáil Eireann at The Hyde Centre last February. Pic: Andrew Fox

RIGHT: Jack Sharkey and Kevin Caslin celebrate with Kilmore’s youngest supporter Ava Connellan following Kilmore’s Roscommon Intermediate Championship Final in October of last year. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

IMAGES OF 2016

LEFT: The driver and engineer pictured onboard the steam train which paid a visit to Roscommon last May. Picture: Andrew Fox RIGHT: Style and taste! Roscommon Rose Aisling McNeill catches up on the latest news ahead of her appearance at the Rose of Tralee last August. BOTTOM RIGHT: Independent TD (now Minister) Denis Naughten celebrates with supporters following the announcement of his return to the Dáil during last February’s General Election count at The Hyde Centre in Roscommon town. Pic: Andrew Fox

LEFT: Pictured at Rooskey Heritage Festival last July were Luke and Matthew Carleton. Picture: Andrew Fox BOTTOM LEFT: Agnes Dunne (Elphin) pictured with Big Tom at the Midsummer’s Day with the Stars which was held at Roscommon Racecourse last June. Picture: Andrew Fox

BELOW: Creggs footballers celebrate their first Roscommon Junior Football Championship title in 33 years following their October victory over Kilglass Gaels. Pic: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

IMAGES OF 2016 LEFT: Pictured at the Roscommon Easter Parade last March were Tom Hanlon and Ben Kilroe. Picture: Andrew Fox RIGHT: Ella Naughten looks set to announce to RTE that her daddy, Denis, has been returned to the Dáil at The Hyde Centre last February. Pic: Andrew Fox BOTTOM LEFT: Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice celebrates with supporters following the announcement of his return to the Dáil during last February’s General Election count at The Hyde Centre in Roscommon town. Pic: Andrew Fox BOTTOM RIGHT: John Tobin pictured on the summit of Croagh Patrick last September. Pic: Andrew Fox

ABOVE: Minister for Health Simon Harris officially opened Roscommon University Hospital’s new endoscopy unit last September. Pic: Andrew Fox RIGHT: Shirley, Jerry and Mike Fallon pictured celebrating after the final whistle following Oran’s Senior Hurling Championship Final replay win over Four Roads last October. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

MEMORIES OF 2016

The stars we lost: ‘Their music will live on’ < SEAMUS DUKE

usic-lovers will remember 2016 as a year when many household names passed away, many of them way before their time. They are all people who have given us fantastic entertainment over the years and their music will live on long after 2016 is forgotten.

George Michael The death of George Michael at Christmas at the age of just 53 shocked many people. He was an incredibly talented musician who wrote some brilliant songs. He wrote ‘Careless Whisper’ when he was just 17 years of age, which was a sign of his emerging talent. The fact that he collaborated with so many major artists throughout his career was an indication of how much he was respected in the industry. He was a very shy man who disliked the fame and adulation that his talent brought him. Since Michael’s death many stories have emerged of his generosity. He gave tens of millions to charity and worked under cover in a homeless shelter on a regular basis, so that nobody would recognise him. He had a few brushes with the law over the years but remains one of the greatest stars of the 1980s, a decade that was so rich with excellent pop and rock artists. Check out his treatment of Queen’s ‘Somebody to Love’ and Elton John’s ‘Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me’. He had a brilliant voice.

David Bowie Any music artist that can remain relevant and popular for over four decades deserves legendary status and that certainly applies to David Bowie. The amount of material that he released over

the years is phenomenal. Add in the fact that the material was so different – taking in rock, glam, soul, dance – and many of his songs are pop classics that will endure for centuries. His final album, ‘Black Star’, was released just two days before his death on January the 10th and it became the 14th of his albums to made it to number one in the charts. In the album there are songs which alluded to his impending death. He was one of the biggest popular music stars of them all. My favourite Bowie track remains ‘Heroes’ which is used in so many documentaries and TV programmes.

Prince Along with Michael Jackson, Prince was the musical face of the 1980s. The diminutive superstar from Minneapolis was a prolific songwriter and it is estimated that he left as many as 2,000 unreleased songs at the time of his death. He was a flamboyant performer and dancer and wrote hit after hit in the 1980s. However in the mid-1990s he became bogged down in rows over his image rights and his musical career took a back seat for a while. When that was sorted out in the early 2000s he returned to performing and in 2007 he starred at the Super Bowl in Florida in a performance that was voted by Billboard magazine as the greatest in the history of the event. He sold hundreds of millions of albums prior to his sudden death in April.

Rick Parﬁtt The Status Quo frontman was part of one of rock’s most successful bands, a group who were preparing to go on their last ever tour after over 50 years at the top. There was always a lot of artistic snobbery over Status Quo’s music but their live performances (and I was lucky enough to be at a number of them) were sensational, and they

always sent the crowd home happy. The music may have sounded the same a lot of the time but they did exactly what it said on the tin – and they certainly entertained.

Leonard Cohen The death of the Canadian singer in November was different to many of the other ‘celebrity deaths’ as he was 82 and had enjoyed a long and distinguished career at the top. Cohen wrote some marvellous songs and had a huge and loyal following in this country. The fans who were lucky enough to see him at Lisadell House in Sligo a few years ago witnessed a very special concert indeed – and there were other memorable Cohen concerts at other Irish venues, all of them now fondly cherished.

Glen Frey A founder member of The Eagles, the immensely talented Frey – along with Don Henley – wrote most of the Eagles’ material. Frey played guitar, piano, and keyboards. He sang lead vocals on songs such as ‘Take It Easy’, ‘Peaceful Easy Feeling’, ‘Tequila Sunrise’, ‘Already Gone’, ‘Lyin’ Eyes’, ‘New Kid in Town’, and ‘Heartache Tonight’. The band’s ‘Hotel California’ album remains one of the biggest selling albums of all time and by 2013 it had sold over 50 million copies. Frey also had a hugely successful solo career. But despite all his success there was much turmoil within The Eagles and there were several major rows between members of the band who despite that friction remained together until a couple of years ago.

Merle Haggard Merle was one of the all-time greats of modern

Canadian singer Leonard Cohen.

Rick Parfitt, the Status Quo frontman. Legendary status and that certainly applies to David Bowie.

Merle Haggard was one of the all-time greats of modern country music.

Prince was the musical face of the 1980s.

The death of George Michael at Christmas at the age of just 53 shocked many people.

country music. The man from California had a troubled youth and had many brushes with the law in the early days. However he went on to record scores of hugely successful country music albums and wrote some of the best-known country standards like ‘Okie from Muskogee’ and ‘Fighting Side Of Me.’ He battled drug and alcohol addiction for a lot of his life but remains one of the biggest names in country music who was widely liked by his contemporaries over many decades.

Keith Emerson and Greg Lake One of the first real ‘Supergroups’ were Emerson, Lake and Palmer who sold over 50 million records in the 1970s alone. It is remarkable that two of the trio died in 2016. Keith Emerson died of a single gunshot wound to the head in a suspected suicide. Greg Lake died in December after a battle with cancer. The third member of the trio was drummer Carl Palmer, who is still with us.

George Martin Seen as the architect of The Beatles’ success, the famous 90-year-old producer died in March. He was responsible for 32 number one hits in the UK and 23 more in the USA. He was commonly known as ‘The fifth Beatle,’ such was his influence on their music.

Henry McCullough From Portstewart in Northern Ireland, this ace guitarist worked with many huge bands including Wings, The Frankie Miller Band and Dr. Feelgood. A much sought-after session musician, he fell ill in 2010 and never fully recovered and died at his home in Ballymoney in June.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

INTO THE NEW YEAR

10 things to do in Roscommon in 2017 < PAUL HEALY

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES

The boarded up shop windows appear to be less prevalent now. There is a cautious optimism in our main towns and villages. Are we in recovery? You can help get us over the line by continuing, at every opportunity, to support small businesses.

VISIT FAMINE MUSEUM

It is well known that we often don’t appreciate what is on our doorstep. I’ve been to Strokestown Park House many times, but I hadn’t toured the Famine Museum until a few years ago, when a cousin of mine from England and some friends of his arrived here. We went to the Famine Museum and were suitably impressed, not to mention moved. If you haven’t been there, it’s well worth putting on your ‘to do’ list for 2017.

WALK, RUN, CYCLE…

SUPPORT THE LOCAL PUB…

It’s as if the moment the Celtic Tiger stopped roaming the land, everyone reached for their running, cycling or walking gear. The last few years has seen a welcome explosion of interest in these activities. We’ve joined in only very occasionally. Getting into walking, cycling, running or indeed any fitness-related activity would surely be a wise way to start the New Year. For those of us who live in close proximity to Roscommon town, the wonderful Mote Park is an obvious option. But one of the many great things about County Roscommon and this region generally is the wonderful variety of walkways that are available to us.

Hot on the (sore) heels of recommending some walking/running/cycling, we’re suggesting that if you like a drink, or even if you don’t, you should support the Irish pub at least every once in a while. Tourists from other countries rave about the Irish pub culture; the rest of us have almost been browbeaten into apologising for the ould trip to the pub. I very seldom go the pub now, but when I do, I’m reminded of the great social outlet which the Irish pub can be. I have no doubt that the pub does wonders for the mental wellbeing of

some people, particularly elderly men. Let’s keep the tradition going.

VISIT LOUGH KEY FOREST PARK

CHEER ON THE ROSSIES

Lough Key Forest Park is simply majestic, a world class facility which is now once again attracting huge crowds. On a summer’s day, it’s a fabulous outdoor attraction; but on any day, the superb and relatively new and very child-friendly indoor attractions are there to be enjoyed. Lough Key Forest Park doesn’t have to be just for a day trip either; increasingly the now state-of-the-art facility is a huge favourite with campers.

The 2016 season for the Roscommon senior footballers was extraordinary, a rollercoaster. It ended in disarray, after such a promising start. A tame exit to Clare (in the qualifiers) was no surprise after Roscommon’s humiliating defeat in the Connacht Final. And yet, and yet, and yet…at the beginning of the season, a Connacht Final appearance and retention of Division One status would have been seen as very satisfactory. Let’s not forget Roscommon’s excellent league campaign, highlights of which were thrilling wins over Cork, Donegal and Kerry (not forgetting victory over Down in Longford). With hindsight, we all know now that joint managers is probably a flawed approach. Fergal O’Donnell has long been a Roscommon GAA hero and remains one. We wish him well. We also wish Kevin McStay, now sole Roscommon manager, every success in the season ahead. It is an excellent appointment; it is good to have a man of his calibre leading us into battle. Club Rossie are doing a great job. The County Board executive have the right focus, the right determination. The redevelopment of Hyde Park was completed quickly and efficiently. So a season of promise awaits us. Support Roscommon!

DEMAND OUR RIGHTS

The people of Roscommon were not found wanting when a threat to the county boundary emerged in 2016. Whether it’s in relation to turf-cutting, health, the threat to local services or the glaring absence of infrastructural necessities – or anything else – we need to continue to ensure that our voices are heard.

Cheering on the Rossies: Megan Turner pictured in Dr. Hyde Park during the Connacht SFC Semi-Final between Roscommon and Sligo last June; Bríon and Shane O’Dowd, at the same game; below, Ultan Bergen, Derbhla Donoghue and Aoife O’Donoghue enjoy the Roscommon Races. Pictures: Andrew Fox

We have the people. We have the shops, schools, farming infrastructure and tradition, sporting facilities, tourist attractions, educated workforce, etc. We have the community spirit. We need the state to work with us. We need to work with people and, where necessary, take on the powers-that-be. By bringing new vigour to the fight to maintain and grow our villages and towns, and with particular emphasis on farming, small businesses and our tourism potential, Roscommon can prosper. But it will require vision, work, a united approach – and, from time to time, people power.

JOIN A VOLUNTARY GROUP

Helping out with both the Roscommon Lions Club Food Appeal and our annual Church Gate collection recently, I was struck by how generous and supportive people are. Funds raised by Roscommon Lions Club go directly towards local causes. Let’s face it, charity begins at home. In times of crisis, and even in ordinary times if we look closely enough, we see the wonderful and generous spirit of people within our communities. It is true that many community organisations could do with new blood, but, in general terms, the spirit of volunteerism is alive and well in County Roscom-

mon. We need voluntary community groups now more than ever. If you’re not involved already, why not get involved in 2017?

‘SELL’ OUR COUNTY

I’m almost thirty years’ working in the media in Roscommon, so I should be fairly in touch with things. However…back to not appreciating what’s on our doorstep (see ‘Visit the Famine Museum’)…I often feel that we under-sell, or sometimes completely fail to sell, what we have here in Co. Roscommon. Many times in recent years – since I’ve started realising that it is ‘outsiders’ who invariably bring it to our attention – it has been brought home to me

what a great place this is in which to live. It is visitors to our county who enthusiastically point out to us that, for example, Roscommon town is a great town. County Roscommon has great amenities, and is rich in heritage and history. Our greatest asset? The quality of life here. Let’s ‘sell’ Roscommon at every opportunity.

DISCOVER YOUR NEIGHBOURS!

This trend of recent years is in danger of getting out of control! It’s bad enough that Irish society is changing to a point where we frequently don’t meet or engage with our neighbours for weeks or months on

end, but in many instances now we barely know our neighbours! Obviously I’m not talking personally here! But there is no doubt about it, a real societal trend of recent years has been this phenomenon whereby more and more people are living in isolation from those who live within even a mile or so of them. It is creating a less friendly society. It is leading to isolation and loneliness, particularly for the elderly/those living alone. We can’t be absolutely sure that Enda and Micheál will be sending the canvassers to our doors in 2017, so let’s be proactive and check in on the neighbours at least once in a while!

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

Weekend

PEOPLE

FACES AND PLACES

See pages 27 - 28

Des Bishop comes to town this Saturday

WinterKing to warm hearts in JJ’s on Saturday < DAN DOONER

will take centre stage at JJ Harlow’s in The Square, Roscommon town this Saturday. The Cavan three-piece comprises of brothers Lee, Michael and Ferdia O’Brien. The group’s sound involves a little bit of everything including folk, indie, reggae, alternative rock and electronica. WinterKing’s repertoire features tracks such as ‘The Higher Stuff’, ‘The City of Mirrors’ and ‘All My Own’ and their musical styling and authentic sound should suit the interKing

intimate surrounds of JJ’s. Michael took one of the WinterKing team and answered the questions… Describe WinterKing in three words. Lee, Michael, Ferdia. (Very diplomatic!). Would you guys rather rock a sold-out stadium or tour Europe’s more intimate venues? Intimate venues would suit us but we wouldn’t mind the stadiums either! What was your most embarrassing moment on stage?

It was probably the time we held up a charity gig for half an hour because Lee managed to plug his leads into the wrong side of his guitar pedal! What’s your one hope for 2017? That would be simply to play more music to more people as we were off the scene for most of last year! What can the audience expect at JJ Harlow’s this Saturday night? A good night of uplifting, footstomping, original music with far-reaching influences and a few twisted covers. Put it this way, you won’t be bored anyway!

Following his sellout show in 2016, comedian Des Bishop brings his new show ‘One Day You’ll Understand’ to the Roscommon Arts Centre this Saturday (January 7th) 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. Saturday night’s show is a sell-out and promises to be the perfect start to the New Year at Roscommon Arts Centre!

Knockcroghery date for renowned singer Rosie 2017 promises to get off to a great start as South Roscommon Singers Circle welcomes Rosie Stewart as special guest for our first session of the New Year, at Murray’s Bar, Knockcroghery, on Saturday, 7th of January at 9 pm. Rosie Stewart, from Belcoo, County Fermanagh, is among the most distinguished of Irish traditional singers. Her distinctive voice and style, the dramatic intensity of her ‘big’ song performances and the wicked pleasure she takes in comic ones, make her one of the most sought after singers in Ireland.

She has performed throughout Ireland, on radio and television, and in Britain and North America. She has been singing for as long as she can remember and attributes her love of songs to her

late father, the singer Packie McKeaney, a major influence and a great encouragement in her career. Stewart is noted for her artistry, her forceful, direct manner and purity of voice and style.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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

Hamrock’s Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday night, 7th January:

Outback (FORMERLY COÍS TÍNE)

Roscommon Comhaltas music classes resume on Monday Roscommon Town Comhaltas branch music classes will resume on Monday, 9th of January in the Hyde Centre from 6 pm. The term will be for 13 weeks and there is room for a few seniors from 8 pm. Tu-

tors, as usual, will be Mary Jo Fitzpatrick B.A. (Music) and Michael Cully, another accomplished musician. For further information contact Bill at 090 6626729 or 086 3345817.

Telephone: 090 6626225 Friday 6th January:

Ciaran, Conor & Gary (CCG) - 10 pm in Middle Bar

Saturday 7th January:

WINTERKING Pictured taking part in the Western Alzheimer’s St. Stephen’s Day Charity Walk were Étain Hession, Liam Bracken, Teresa Hession, Alice Bracken, Aodha and DJ Hession. Picture: Andrew Fox

Sunday 8th January: Blues session with

Strange Brew Pictured taking part in the Western Alzheimer’s St. Stephen’s Day Charity Walk were Frank Mullen, Dara Siggins, Deirdre Siggins, Geraldine Mullen, Seán Mullen, Mary Mullen, Eoin Siggins and Dermot Siggins. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured taking part in the Western Alzheimer’s St. Stephen’s Day Charity Walk were Pat, Ruairc and Ruth Mulhern. 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

BEER OF THE WEEK! JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Pictured taking part in the Western Alzheimer’s St. Stephen’s Day Charity Walk were Pat Collins, Eimear Collins, Emma McStay and Kevin McStay. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured taking part in the Western Alzheimer’s St. Stephen’s Day Charity Walk were Mary Elizabeth Connolly, Aoife Connolly and Leone McNamara. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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

Pictured at the St. Stephen’s Day Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run in Knockcroghery were Francis, Caroline and Declan Dowling.

Pictured at the St. Stephen’s Day Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run in Knockcroghery were Marcella, Bill and Donna Hennelly.

Faces & Places

St. Stephen’s Day Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run in Knockcroghery Pics: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the St. Stephen’s Day Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run in Knockcroghery were Sorcha Casey and Caoimhe McIntyre.

Pictured at the St. Stephen’s Day Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run in Knockcroghery were Jeremiah Loughnane, Alan, Michelle and James Tarpey.

Pictured at the St. Stephen’s Day Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run in Knockcroghery were Barry, Proinsias and June Killion.

Pictured at the St. Stephen’s Day Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind 10k Fun Walk and Run in Knockcroghery were Louise, Adam and Michael Duffy.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk on St. Stephen’s Day were Olivia and Richard Smyth and Lorraine Conlon.

Faces & Places

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk on St. Stephen’s Day were Pat and Margaret O’Brien.

22nd annual Barrie Harris Walk (Creggs) Pics: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk on St. Stephen’s Day were Kellie Naughton, Murry and Ronnie Coleman Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk on St. Stephen’s Day were Stephen Smyth, Fiona Curley, Seán Curley and Bríd Coyle.

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk on St. Stephen’s Day were Stephen O’Connor and John Hanley.

Pictured at the Barrie Harris Walk on St. Stephen’s Day were Eve Smyth, Ava Coyle, Laura Curley.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

NewsPeople Feighan welcomes €468,000 in ICT funding for Roscommon schools Senator Frank Feighan has welcomed a total of €468,000 in funding for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment for Roscommon schools. “Allocated by the Minister for Education, Richard Bruton, this funding for 99 primary and secondary schools in Roscommon will support the development and implementation of an eLearning Plan for each school to embed ICT in teaching and learning. “Some examples of the infrastructure that schools can purchase with this funding are: Teaching computers/shared student computers. These may include desktop PCs, laptops, tablets or hybrid devices; projectors including short throw or ultra-short throw, long throw, interactive, or interactive flat screens (IFS); cloud based tools and applications to support learning. “This investment marks the start of the Government’s €210 million Digital Strategy for Schools. As Minister Bruton said today in announcing this funding, the ability to think critically and develop solutions in the digital world will be vital for these students’ prospects in life.

Sinead Connellan (teacher), Lucia McDonnell and Shannon Reynolds and Caitríona McDonnell (Principal) from Ballyfeeney NS, Roscommon were awarded Junior County Winner at the awards ceremony for the ‘Someone Like Me’ national primary schools art competition by Minister of State with special responsibility for Disability Issues, Finian McGrath. The aim of the competition, which is sponsored by the Department of Justice and Equality, is to develop children’s understanding and awareness of disabilities, and to celebrate the things that make them and their classmates unique.

Senator Frank Feighan

“The Digital Strategy for Schools sets out a clear vision to realise the potential of digital technologies to transform the learning experiences of students. “The ICT funding rates payable are €2,000 per school plus €22.20 per mainstream pupil in primary schools, with additional per capita payments for pupils in DEIS schools, Special Classes and Special Schools. “At post-primary, the rates payable are €2,000 per school plus €31.90 per student, with an additional per capita payment for students in DEIS schools. These payments are made directly into the schools’ accounts.”

Avril Byrne (Principal), Jack Bell and Amber Nolan from Brusna NS, Roscommon were awarded Senior County Winner at the awards ceremony for the ‘Someone Like Me’ national primary schools art competition by Minister of State with special responsibility for Disability Issues, Finian McGrath.

‘Joining Slimming World was the best decision I ever made’ – Sharon My name is Sharon Fullard. My amazing journey started in January 2016. I had seen a poster for Slimming World briefly as I opened the door of David Hynes’ Chemist. A few days later I was looking through the Roscommon People newspaper and lo and behold there was the Slimming World advert again. It said “all new members welcome”, and that the classes were to be held in Hannon’s Hotel at 9.30 am. Something inside me said this is it, it’s too much of a coincidence and this could be the start of something really good for you, you need it. So I saved the advert and I rang the number which was of course the lovely Tracy. We chatted for a few minutes and Tracy explained about the plan and what I could expect from the group. On the very first day of my amazing journey I was weighed in and I was very embarrassed by my weight, when I was shown privately that I was 16st 3lbs. I said to myself, “Sharon you will never hear that weight again.” And from there I have never looked back. The friends that I have made with all the people at the classes has been brilliant. We share lots of recipes and ideas in group as well as a nice cuppa. They have helped me so much on my journey with their

encouragement and praise. The happiness that they have given me has been so wonderful and without them and Tracy, Jenny and everyone, I wouldn’t be like what I am today. Christmas week I received my 6st award and I am coming very close to my target. I tell everyone it was the best decision I

have ever made in my life by joining Slimming World. Slimming World Roscommon * Slimming World Roscommon takes place on Thursdays at 9.30 am, 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm and on Fridays at 9.30 am in Hannon’s Hotel. For further information contact Tracy on 087-6567059.

live happy! with

Slimming World Strokestown Strokestown Community & Sports Centre, Co Roscommon, Strokestown, Tuesdays 5:30pm and 7:30pm Call Deirdre: 087 2348363

Boyle St. Joseph’s Boys School Abbeytown, Boyle Thursday 5.30pm & 7.30pm Call Mary : 087 2376348

Castlerea O’Rourke GAA Centre, The Demesne, Castlerea, Wednesdays 5:30pm and 7:30pm Call Deirdre: 087 2348363

Roscommon Hannon’s Hotel Athlone Road, Roscommon Friday 9.30am Call Tracy: 087 6567059

Roscommon Thursday 9.30am, 5.30pm & 7.30pm Hannon’s Hotel Athlone Road, Roscommon Call Tracy : 087 6567059

slimmingworld.ie 01 656 96 96

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

NewsPeople

HONOURED AT IN ROSCOMMON

Nicola Brennan, winner of Girls’ U-8 Gold 2015, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council, at a Civic Reception in Roscommon Arts Centre. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Members of the Convent of Mercy Secondary School, Roscommon, Bank of Ireland FAI Schools’ Junior Girls’ All-Ireland Cup winners 2015, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Katie Heneghan, All-Ireland Scor na nÓg Recitation winner 2016 for St. Aidan’s, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Rikki O’Gara and Joe McCann were Men’s World Handball A Doubles Silver 2015 winners. In picture is Rikki O’Gara, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Abbey Community College, Boyle, All-Ireland winners in Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland ‘One Good Idea’ Competition 2015. In picture are: Cillian Doyle, Luke Connelly and James Bolger, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Members of St. Brigid’s GAA Club, U-14 Feile Peil na NOg Boys Div. 4 champions 2015, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Grainne O’Looney, winner of Girls’ Gold in 2015 for swimming, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council, at a Civic Reception in Roscommon Arts Centre. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Niall Shanagher, Kilbride Community Games, Boys’ Gold 2015, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

NewsPeople

CIVIC RECEPTION ARTS CENTRE… Drum/Clonown Community Games winners for swimming: Aileen Ward, Judy Brennan, Laura Johnson and Rachel Johnson, with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council, pictured at a Civic Reception. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Four Roads Community Games Badminton winners. In picture are: Adam Cummins, Adam Donnelly, Cormac Mulry, Dara Finneran, Seán Hynes and Enda Clogher, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Nora Fahy and Maria Harris of Roscommon Women’s Network, winners of Irish Rural Link National Award for Outstanding Contribution to Community Development in Rural Ireland, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin Michael O’Brien, Ballyleague, Handwriting Gold U-12 in 2016, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Pupils and teachers from Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál Roscommon, who were All-Ireland champions in Féile Drámaíochta 2015, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council, at a Civic Reception in Roscommon Arts Centre. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Ronan Doyle, Kiltoom/Cam Community Games Handwriting Gold 2015, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council, at a Civic Reception. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Members of the Clann na nGael Cumann Peil na mBan, U-14 Feile Peil na nOg Girls’ Div. 3 champions 2015, pictured with Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach, Roscommon Co. Council and Eugene Cummins, CEO, Roscommon Co. Council, at a Civic Reception in Roscommon Arts Centre. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

PropertyPeople 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 MOST IMPRESSIVE 4 B/R DORMER STYLE RESIDENCE OF C. 1,900 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

3 THE FAIRWAYS, GOLF LINKS ROAD, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON Price Guide: €225,000 ono to sell

A very attractive and spacious detached residence located in a much sought after residential area of Roscommon Town and within walking distance of Roscommon Golf Club. This property offers spacious living accommodation and has been finished to the highest standard throughout. The said property is located opposite a large green area in the said development and offers all the necessary comforts for modern day living. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. BER: D1. LEGAL: MS SINEAD NEILAN, SOLICITOR, ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON TOWN. -------------------------------------------------------------------

Final offers invited for Kilroosky residence David Diffley of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week inviting final offers for a superb 5 bedroomed dormer style residence located at Cloonageeragh, Kilroosky, Roscommon as his property of the week. Price Guide: €100,000 ono to sell. David describes the property as “A quality 5 bedroomed detached dormer style residence of approximately 2,045 sq. ft. standing on a site area of 0.88 of an acre. The property is located in a select countryside location close to Ros-

common town and is currently at builder’s finish throughout thus allowing the would be purchaser to put his/her individual touch to the finish of same. The auctioneers now invite final viewings and all final offers for immediate sale.” For further details or to arrange a viewing, contact David Diffley MIPAV, TREV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090 66 26579 or email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www. propertypartners.ie.

Great views on offer at Tarmonbarry Connaughton Auctioneers bring to market a new four bedroomed bungalow of 1,850 sq. ft. being sold as it stands completed to builders finished, located just off the Strokestown/Tarmonbarry road at Drinagh, Tarmonbarry. This prime residence comes complete with excellent views of Sliabh Bán and the surrounding countryside. Accommodation includes a reception hallway, sitting room, kitchen/dining room, conservatory/sun room, utility, four bedrooms with one en-suite and a main bathroom.

NEW TO THE MARKET A QUALITY 3 B/R MID TERRACE TWO STOREY PROPERTY OF C. 1,312 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

2 THE BARONY, ELPHIN STREET, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON Price Guide: €65,000 ono to sell A quality 3 B/R mid terrace two storey residence located in the select Barony development adjacent to the centre of Strokestown. The said property offers spacious living accommodation throughout together with the benefit of a low maintenance exterior and is situated in a quiet enclosure of only 10 number houses. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers for immediate sale. BER: C3. LEGAL: MESSRS. PHILIP LEE SOLICITORS, 7-8 WILTON TERRACE, DUBLIN 2. --------------------------------------------------------------------

SUPERB VALUE AT OLDWOOD The Governments “help-to-buy scheme” for firsttime buyers will give a rebate of income tax of 5 % of the purchase price at Oldwood. Total saving: €8,800.

This property is eligible for the new Tax Incentive Scheme with rebate up to a maximum of 5% of purchase price for first time buyers. Tarmonbarry is a beautiful little village along the River Shannon. There is a hotel and several very good restaurants in the village, including an award-winning gastro pub, which is also an art gallery. Viewing comes highly recommended. For further information or to request a viewing, contact the office on 090 666 3700.

Final offers after €30,000 for prime Lecarrow lands David Diffley of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week inviting final offers after €30,000 for a quality parcel of lands containing approximately 1.9 acres located at Killoy, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon. David describes the lands as: “Primely located lands located beside Lecarrow village and all amenities and situated just off the main Roscommon to Athlone route. Standing on the lands is a derelict one-storey residence. The lands,

due to setting, location and size offer great potential for a building site (subject to planning permission) and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and final offers after €30,000 to sell. For further details, please contact David Diffley MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley, Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090 66 26579, logonto www.propertypartners.ie or email ddiffley@ propertypartners.ie.

Appealing family home in Castlerea AN EXCITING NEW DEVELOPMENT OF THREE BEDROOM HOMES LOCATED AT

THE EXCLUSIVE “OLDWOOD” DEVELOPMENT, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON Prices from €176,000 On the edge of Roscommon town, Oldwood is an executive development in stunning surroundings exclusively designed for modern living. With an “A” BER rating, you will find a level of finish that will not fail to impress. On offer are 3 bedroom semi-detached residences located adjacent to Roscommon County Hospital and all town amenities. For further details or copy brochure, contact the office. BER: A3. LEGAL: BILLY BRANDON, MESSERS PATRICK J NEILAN & CO, ROSCOMMON. 090 66 25405. Viewing by appointment with the sole selling agents.

‘Knockroe Court’ is a compact development located in a quiet area on the edge of Castlerea town, where “countryside meets town.” It’s ideally situated close to all amenities including schools, shops, Church, etc. and just a stone’s throw from ‘The Demesne,’ a popular and scenic public park. Loretta Dowd Properties is delighted to bring to the market this instantly appealing family home overlooking a large green area, a residence which has been well cared for by its present owners. Loretta Dowd commented that this property offers spacious well-proportioned bright accommodation throughout. There’s a large sitting room area with open fireplace, spacious kitchen/dining room, utility, w.c. On the first floor are four bedrooms (master ensuite) and bathroom. There’s oil-fired central heating. The garden to the front is spacious and pro-

vides ample off-street car parking. To the rear of the property is a large garden area with storage shed. Price region: €120,000 o.n.o. Viewings are strongly advised and further enquiries can be made to Loretta Dowd Properties on 0872233223 or email: ldowdproperties@gmail. com or www.daft.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

PropertyPeople

Farm with equestrian interest near Frenchpark Connaughton Auctioneers are offering a prime residential farm with equestrian interest comprising of approximately 37.11 acres situated in a tranquil, private setting with excellent riding-out areas fronting onto the Mantua and Breedoge rivers which access Lough Gara. The residence is fully refurbished including new dry-lining, insulation, double glazing with new plumbing and electrics throughout. The residential accommodation includes a two bedroom residence in excellent condition with farm buildings in close proximity including hayshed, extensive range of stable and a loose shed. The lands are set out in four lots, well fenced into grazing

●

Property Sales ● Lettings ● Valuations

Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel. (090) 6663700. Mob. (086) 8985013 PSRA Licence No. 001350 www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

M.S.C.S.I

Property Auction For SaleSALE NO NO FEE 1% EX. VAT FOR ALL SALES €250,000 AND OVER (Terms and Conditions Apply)

PROPERTY AUCTION

FOR SALE Four Bedroom Bungalow

Coolderry, Four Roads Co. Roscommon paddocks with electricity and water to all sheds and holds huge potential for grazing or forestry. Conveniently located to Frenchpark, Elphin and Carrick-on-Shannon, viewing of the

property comes highly recommended. For full brochure, maps and further information please contact the office on 090 666 3700.

Price Region: In Excess of €225,000

Avail of the New Tax Incentive of up to 5%

ers are wide awake to this”. John added: “Due to recent demand, we are actively seeking holdings of all sizes for disappointed underbidders and cash clients in all areas. Replies are dealt with in the strictest of confidence and we welcome all submissions.” For further details or to arrange a consultation, please contact Property Partners Earley Roscommon on 090 66 26579, email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

FRIDAY 10th MARCH 2017 LIST YOUR PROPERTY IN THE AUCTION BE IT; • COTTAGES • RESIDENTIAL (new and second-hand) • Commercial • Agricultural Land • Building Sites FREE VALUATION, NO SALE, NO FEE. CONTACT THE OFFICE TODAY FOR FURTHER INFORMATION.

Property Partners Earley want farms! John Earley of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is pleased to announce a recent surge in land sales across the region. Demand for holdings of all sizes is up considerably with prices holding strong also. John said: “We are delighted with the level of activity currently been experienced in the land market and it highlights a number of underlying positive factors still at play in this sector. We find that land that is priced correctly is selling and buy-

PROPERTY AUCTION

Telephone (090) 6663700 • Spacious four bedroom residence • Complete to ‘builders finish’ • Built to a very high standard • Conservatory to rear with unrivalled views of surrounding countryside • Cast iron gates to the front • Located adjacent to Four Roads Village To arrange a viewing call Connaughton Auctioneers on 090-6663700

LEASING LANDS IN 2017? CONTACT IVAN TODAY ON

086 898 5013 FOR A FREE VALUATION AND TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS YOU MAY HAVE FOR SHORT OR LONG TERM LETTINGS

Business Hotel and guesthouse owners in Roscommon upbeat for 2017 ‘Roscommon’s favourite local broadband provider’

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

The latest Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) quarterly barometer released this week shows that overall hotel and guesthouse owners in Roscommon are optimistic for their businesses in 2017. Nationally nine out of ten (91%) state they recorded increased business in 2016 while over half (57%) of hotels and guesthouses grew their workforce during the year. Coming to the end of one of the strongest tourism years since the recession, the barometer also shows that nine out of ten (89%) have plans to reinvest in their properties in the New Year. Importantly for Roscommon, the IHF barometer highlights that some 82% of hoteliers have reported increased business this year from the home market, noting this reflects the growing number of Irish people ben-

efitting from the upturn in the economy. Nine of out ten hoteliers (92%) are concerned about the impact the Brexit will have on their business in 2017. Almost a fifth (18%) are reporting a fall in forward bookings from Northern Ireland. According to Brian Pierson, Chair of the Roscommon branch of the IHF, confidence among hoteliers is steadily improving as the recovery in tourism continues. “Irish tourism has seen

a record-breaking year in 2016 and there is a lot to celebrate as the most recent CSO figures show that 8.9 million overseas visitors have visited Ireland in 2016, up 11% on 2015. This is an outstanding achievement and a result of the hard work being carried out by the entire tourism industry in partnership with the national tourism bodies.” He adds: “However, there are signs that growth is slowing out of the UK market. While it is too early to say what the effect of Brexit

will be, the uncertainty and the fall in the value of sterling will pose challenges. It is imperative that we mitigate the risks and potential damage where possible. This is a key task for us in the coming years as we work to deliver sustainable, longterm growth. In particular, continued Government support for tourism in the form

of investment in marketing and product development will be critical. “We must be mindful too that national tourism marketing strategies encourage overseas tourists to travel beyond the key urban centres and traditional ‘hot spots’ so that we can extend tourism success across Roscommon.”

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

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

FarmingPeople

KT SHEEP SEMINAR EVENT ABBEY HOTEL, ROSCOMMON Tuesday, 10th January, 2017 from 7.30 to 9.30 pm Topics: ● Pregnant Ewe Nutrition & Animal Feed Demo ● Optimum stocking densities & Fencing Demo ● Health & Safety Presentation ● Health & Safety Protective Gear Demo Speakers: ● Frank Hynes, Teagasc Sheep Specialist, Athenry ● Dr. Philip Creighton, Teagasc Research, Athenry ● Vincent Collins, Service Matters H&S, Roscommon. KT SIGN–IN WILL BE FROM 7PM SHARP All farmers welcome regardless of KT involvement Tom Kellegher, Regional Manager, Teagasc Roscommon/Longford 090-6626166 www.teagasc.ie

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

TOM ROGERS

JOHN GREENE

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

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

Your LOCAL Collector Guaranteed lowest price

Lowest price guaranteed

Sheep Scheme ‘could be worth over €1.2m a year to Roscommon farmers’ Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins has said the new sheep welfare scheme launched by Minister Michael Creed will be extremely important for farmers in this region. Applications will open soon and the deadline for applying for the scheme will be 31st of January 2017. Senator Hopkins said: “Roscommon has about 1,800 flocks with over 123,000 ewes. In money terms for Roscommon, at €10 per ewe this could potentially equate to a €1.2 million.” Senator Hopkins stated that the scheme is being developed under the animal welfare measure of the Rural Development Programme which see a number of welfare options available for farmers to select from. “I have strongly emphasised to Minister Creed the need to keep the options as simple as possible for the farmer.” Senator Hopkins went on to say: “The options will encourage farmers for example to carry out examinations to identify and control specific lameness problems, to provide mineral supplementation to ewes to improve their health and reduce lambing problems, to feed meal to lambs prior to weaning to reduce set back, to carry out simple tests to establish parasite burdens which will help identify the best doses to use, to scan ewes to identify barren ewes and allow targeted feeding prior to lambing and to better manage flystrike.” Senator Hopkins concluded by saying “joining the scheme may lead to more

(Serving Farmers for over 57 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

Lambs and Cast Ewes Wednesday, 11th January at 11 a.m. --------------

Bullocks, Heifers and Dry Cows Friday, 13th January at 11 a.m. -------------

Weanlings and Suckler Cows Tuesday, 17th January at 5 p.m. -----------------------

New Year Special Sale of Heifers Friday, January 20th at 11 a.m Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, January 12th Also Bullocks & Dry Cows ---------------

New Year Special sale of Bullocks Fine Gael Senator Maura Hopkins

work for the farmer and there will be some cost associated but many of our farmers are already implementing many of these options to maximise performance so we know they work.” The Department have organised a series of information meetings on the scheme, as follows: Landmark Hotel, Carrickon-Shannon on 19th of January; Breaffy House, Castlebar on 16th of January and Hodson Bay, Athlone on 18th of January.

BALLINASLOE

Friday, January 27th at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, January 19th Also Heifers & Dry Cows ------------------------------

Special Sale of Springers & Suckler Cows Saturday, January 28th at 12 noon Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, January 19th ---------------------

Wishing all our Customers, Shareholders and Friends a Peaceful and Prosperous New Year ENQUIRIES 090 6626352

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

Find us on facebook

Daily collection

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

THURSDAY 12TH JANUARY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS CASTLEREA MART WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL ITS CUSTOMERS A HAPPY NEW YEAR FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Serving Farmers since 1985 Pictured at the Macra na Feirme National Dairy Council Indoor Soccer Final in Gormanstown, Co. Meath are South Roscommon Macra na Feirme, County Roscommon with Macra National President Sean Finan. Back (l-r): Sean Hannon, Stephen Murray, Colm Murray and Diarmuid Murray. Front (l-r): Johnny Finnerty, Michael Fallon, Micheal Grady and Sean Finan.

G.L.A.S. Hedging And Trees Provenance Certs issued. All types of Hedging supplied Free Expert Advice Phone: P.J.

087 4223039

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

Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

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

Tel: 094 9542668 www.westernforestry.com

Keep your farm safe

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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

ACUPUNCTURE/ CHIROPODY CHIROPODY/ ACUPUNCTURE LENNON’S CLINIC Galway Road, Roscommon Phone: (090) 6626023 (086) 8225575

CAREERS

CHIROPODIST

COUNSELLING

CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

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

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

CAR FOR SALE < FOR SALE HATCHBACK CAR ‘03: NCT October 17, tax February 17. Goes well. Rover. €550ono. Tel: 087 3871234.

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

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

BOUNCING CASTLES

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 CHIMNEY CLEANING

ROSCOMMON CASTLES CLEAN SWEEP Chimney Services

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

Phone No: (087) 4136355

CHIMNEY CLEANING 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.

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

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

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC 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

VHI and Laya Covered

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

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

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

Patrick Lynch Clinical Dental Technician

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

DOGS MISSING < LOST DOG IN BALLYFORAN/AHASCRAGH: Large brown/white English Pointer, which was last seen in the Ballyforan/Ahascragh area, has been reported missing. The dog answers to ‘Huch’ and a reward is offered. Please contact 0876476597 with any information. < MISSING: Black and white collie dog. Taughmaconnell area. Telephone 086 3682117 if you have any information.

Email: info@dccomputerservices.ie Web: www.dccomputerservices.ie

DRIVING LESSONS

SYL’s

School of Motoring

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

Call (085) 1348779

ACCOUNTS

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper!

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

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

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TEL: 086 2387528

Contact: 085 1348779

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

SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

R.S.A. Approved Driving Instructor

Car Available for Tests Gift Vouchers

(094) 98 80281/ (087) 2031909

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 Learn to drive with ....

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

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Webb’s Butcher’s 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715. < FOR SALE: Charolais, AA and Hereford calves. Phone: Mark 086 1996367.

FENCING

DOCKERY’S

FENCING

www.aclearsteerdriving.com

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

Tuition in Car Also 16 seater mini bus

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

DRIVING LESSONS

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

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. < CAR TRANSPORTER FOR HIRE: 12 1/2 ft by 6 ft. €50 per day. Ballygar area. Contact: 086 1017224.

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. < CONSERVATORY FOR SALE: 12ft x 9ft x 7ft. Has character. Two sliding doors, heavy duty. Polycarbonate roof, guttering, etc. Telephone 086 8828882 for enquiries.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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

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

GATES AND RAILINGS < TULLY GATES & RAILINGS: Highest quality wrought iron gates and railings. Also wooden gates. All budgets catered for. Made to spec, also selection in stock. Ring 086 0602173 for brochure.

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

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

Find us on facebook

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

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

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE • Woodchipping • Log Splitting • Tree Surgery • Hedge Cutting

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

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

GARDENING 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

● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

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

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

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

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

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon

Phone: (086) 3614230

KENNELS

PLANNINGS

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

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

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 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, Colm and Mairead Sheerin are applying to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for the construction of a dwellinghouse with domestic effluent treatment system and polishing filter, together with all ancillary site works and services at Drumdoe Td., Corrigeenroe, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Michael Archer (Agent for Colm & Mairead Sheerin), 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 for planning permission, on behalf of Tom and Lisa Lavin, to erect a dwellinghouse and garage and to install a proprietary effluent treatment system at Lissacurkia Townland, Ballaghaderreen. Signed: Mary O’Hara & Associates, Civil Engineering Consultants, Market Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 094 98 61515 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable costs of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Declan and Roberta Hanly intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to refurbish existing workshop/stores, alterations to front elevation to provide car sales showroom, offices and toilet facilities, planning permission to retain canteen, toilet facilities to rear of premises and hard surfaced area to side of premises, associated site development works and services at Cloonybeirne, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architectural & Design Services Ltd. Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 66 26974 Mobile: 086 8115449 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Marie Hawthorn intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission for retention of extension to Western side of existing dwelling and retention of domestic garage and store to Eastern side of dwelling, associated site services and site development works at Ballinagard Road, Ballinagard, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architectural & Design Services Ltd. Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 66 26974 Mobile: 086 8115449 The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/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.

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

To have your advert seen by over 70,000 people every week advertise with us!

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

The local paper! OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

REFLEXOLOGY

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

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

SEPTIC TANKS

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

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

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

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

Classifieds SITUATIONS VACANT < CARER REQUIRED for able-bodied male. Flexible hours, no night work. Driver’s licence essential, will be required to accompany person to hospital and dental appointments. Suitable candidate will be eligible for normal allowances - respite grants, etc. Please reply to Box No: 965, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. PART-TIME BAR STAFF REQUIRED for pub near Roscommon town. Experience desirable. Please reply to Box No: 966, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < CHILDMINDER REQUIRED: Tuesday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. Commencing in February. Rahara/Knockcroghery area. Phone 086 3079742.

SITUATIONS WANTED LADY AVAILABLE to look after children in Fuerty/Castlecoote area. Can do school pick ups. Contact: 086 3763374. < EXPERIENCED LADY AVAILABLE for housework, babysitting, cleaner, ironing services, kitchen porter or care of the elderly in Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Tel: 089 2169509 or 087 3515999.

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

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

(086) 2714879

TOM KILDUFF CABS Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

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

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

TUITION

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:

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

Lorraine Beirne 086 3688302

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire 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.

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

<CASTLEREA/TULSK: LEAVING/JUNIOR CERT Maths, Irish, French. ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE. Private tuition in your own home. Tel: 086 3282437. < REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY: Private French tuition lessons for Leaving Certificate pupil. Roscommon area. Phone: 087 7664697 after 4pm.

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 • 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. < TURF FOR SALE: Loads of good black turf at reasonable price. Also bags of turf. Tel: 086 2544294. < COAL FOR SALE: 20kg bags of household coal only €7 per bag delivered. Buy 20 bags, get 1 bag free. Contact Tom: 086 2628439. < BAGS OF TURF FOR SALE: ALSO round bales of hay. Tel: 086 3776948. < 2016 LORRY LOADS of new screened shed stored black hopper turf and seasoned firewood. Tel: 087 1413238.

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

OIL BOILER SERVICE

ONLY €80 Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 96 31880 087 9100477 SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAINS JETTED & CLEANED Waste Collection Permit No: NWCPO-12-11038-01

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

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

Contact: 087 6718564

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

Contact Vincent on 083 4130827

Glamorous Dogs FUERTY, ROSCOMMON

KESHIA CASEY

Professional Dog Groomer

(087) 2731228

USEFUL SERVICES < 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 < 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.

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. M.K.

THANKSGIVING 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. M.K. NOVENA TO ST. JUDE O Holy St. Jude! Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor for all who invoke you, special patron in time of need: to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart, and humbly beg you, to whom God has given such great power, to come to my assistance: help me now in my urgent need and grant my earnest petition. I will never forget thy graces and favours you obtain for me and I will do my utmost to spread devotion to you. Amen, St. Jude pray for us and all who honour thee and invoke thy aid. (Say 3 Our Fathers, 3 Hail Mary’s & 3 Glory Be’s). A.K. PRAYER TO ST. ANNE (TO OBTAIN SOME SPECIAL FAVOUR) Glorious St. Anne, filled with compassion for those who invoke you and with love for those who suffer, heavily laden with the weight of my troubles, I cast myself at your feet and humbly beg of you to take the present affair which I recommend to you under your special protection. Vouchsafe to recommend it to your daughter, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and lay it before the throne of Jesus, so that He may bring it to a happy issue. Cease not to intercede for me until my request is granted. (Here ask for favor you wish to obtain.) Above all, obtain for me the grace of one day beholding my God face to face, and with You and Mary and all the saints, praising and blessing Him through all eternity. Amen. Good St. Anne, mother of her who is our life, our sweetness and our hope, pray to her for us and obtain our request. (Three times). A.K.

PRAYER TO ST. PADRE PIO O God, You gave Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, Capuchin priest, the great privilege of participating in a unique way in the passion of your son, grant me through his intercession the grace of ...... which I ardently desire; and above all grant me the grace of living in conformity with the death of Jesus, to arrive at the glory of the resurrection. Glory of the resurrection. Glory be to the father... (3 times). A.K. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times, for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. A.M.K.

Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for nonpublication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

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Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES LOHAN (nee Lyons) Una

FALLON Patrick Joseph (PJ)

Glinsk, Castlerea, Co. Galway Who died on 4th January 2016

Gardenfort, Dysart, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary)

Una’s sons John, Seamus and Noel, daughters Mary, Bridie, Eileen and Carmel, sons-in-law, grandchildren and extended family sincerely thank all who sympathised and supported us on our sudden and sad loss. Thanks to all who called to our home, attended the Funeral and Burial, sent Mass Cards, Enrolments and flowers. Thanks to Canon Joe Delaney for prayers at house, to Fr. Michael Joyce for the beautiful Mass and to Fr. John McCarthy, Fr. Pat Hogan and Fr. George for concelebrating the Mass. Thanks to the Sacristan, Mass Servers, Eucharistic Minister, readers and to those who brought up gifts. Thank you to Glinsk Choir and Ann and Cathy for the hymns. We want to say a huge thanks to all who brought food and refreshments to the house and to all who assisted with traffic and parking in very poor weather conditions. Thanks to Tommy and Dolores Dowd for the kind and professional way in which Funeral arrangements were made, to Dolores and staff for providing refreshments after the Funeral Mass. We also wish to thank the gravediggers who prepared mam’s final resting place with such care. Thanks to Dr. Christopher Cunningham and staff who looked after Mam. Finally, we want to say we will never forget all the help and kindness we have received from our neighbours, friends and relations. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. First Anniversary Mass in on Sunday January 15th at 10 o’clock in St. Michael’s Church, Glinsk.

HANLEY Teresa

PIETRZAK Piotr

GALLAGHER Alan

Doughill, Curraghroe, Co. Roscommon

Abbeyville, Roscommon Town

Ballinagard Road, Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of a dear mother, who died 7th January 2005 R.I.P.

I am sad within my memory Lonely is my heart today For the one I loved so dearly Has forever been called away. I think of you in silence No eye may see me weep But many silent tears are shed When others are asleep.

Always remembered and so sadly missed by her daughter Bridie, Eddie, Emer and James. ~~~~~~~~~~~~

Your loving wife Pauline x Second Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart on Saturday 7th January at 8.15pm. ~~~~~~~~~~~

Your name is often mentioned Our thoughts are with you still You have never been forgotten And by us you never will.

DAD A thousand times we needed you A thousand times we cried If love alone could have saved you You never would have died. A heart of gold stopped beating Two twinkling eyes closed to rest God broke our hearts to prove He only takes the best.

Your loving children Shane, Dean and Mary xxx ~~~~~~~~~~~ BROTHER A helping hand to all he knew So kind, so generous and true On earth he nobly did his best Grant him Jesus Heavenly rest.

Love your sister Phil, brother-in-law Jack and family x ~~~~~~~~~~~ BROTHER Peaceful by thy rest dear brother Tis sweet to breathe your name In life I loved you dearly In death I do just the same.

Your loving sister, Sister Mary Teresa x

Ros Memorials Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

PAT QUIGLEY: 087 7799076 PAUL O’CONNOR: 086 6052649

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

Many a lovely moment Many a silent tear But always treasured memories Of a mother we loved so dear.

Always remembered by Henry, Julia, Sean and Molly. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you.

Always remembered by Vincent, Marie, Philip and Alex. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again.

Always remembered by Luke, Teresa, Kenneth, Kellie, Michelle and Luke. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Silent memories keep you near As time unfolds another year Out of our lives you may have gone But in our hearts you still live on.

Always remembered by Frank. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 8th January 2017 at 10am in Curraghroe Church.

The wife and family of the late Piotr Pietrzak of Abbeyville, Roscommon town, who passed on the 9th December 2016, would like to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us on our great loss. We offer our heartfelt thanks to the neighbours who assisted Piotr after his accident, the Ambulance Staff, the Gardai, those who sent cards and messages of condolences, attended the Mass held on the 10th December and those who attended his Funeral. We also thank Smyth’s Funeral Directors, for their sensitive and professional handling of arrangements. To those who helped in any way, your contribution made our loss more bearable. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude.

MULLANEY Mary Jo (2nd Anniversary)

Always in our thoughts, Forever in our hearts.

Remembered by Mam, Dad, Brian, Kevin, Olive and family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 7th January in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 9.30am.

FARRELL Mattie & Mary Clooneyourish, Athleague (11th and 6th Anniversaries) In loving memory of Mattie, who died on 30th December 2005 and Mary, who died on 13th January 2011

KELLY Kathleen Borefield, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) Who passed away on 6th January 2015 A loving thought A quiet prayer Please God keep her in your care.

Lovingly remembered by your husband Vincent, Annette, Mary, Joseph, Ben and their families. Anniversary Mass in Kiltrustan Church on Saturday evening 14th January 2017.

McGRATH Una

Many a lovely moment, many a silent tear, But always treasured memories of parents we loved so dear. We hold you close within our hearts and there you shall remain, To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again.

Always remembered by Seamus, Kieran, Marie and Sean, relatives and friends. Anniversary Mass will be offered on Saturday 7th January at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague.

LYONS Joe and Mary Milltown, Castleplunkett (17th and 5th Anniversaries)

Karol Avenue, Elphin, Co Roscommon (1st Anniversary) In loving memory of Mary Jo Mullaney, Rathconnor, Fourmilehouse whose 2nd Anniversary occurs on the 19th January 2017 She was a mother so very rare Content in her home and always there On earth she toiled In Heaven she rests God bless you mother You were one of the best.

Sadly missed by her daughters, sons, extended family and a wide circle of friends. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Fourmilehouse Church on Sunday 8th January at 11am.

Treasured memories of our parents Absent, unseen, still very near Still loved, still missed, still very dear. Will those who think of her today A little prayer to Jesus say.

Fondly remembered by her family, relatives and friends. First Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Elphin at 11.30am on Sunday 8th January 2017.

Remembered always by their family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 8th January at 10am in Donamon Castle.

HANLEY James and Teresa

KEANE Barry Pound Road, Ballygar Who died 4th January 1992 (25th Anniversary)

In loving memory of James, who passed away in 1973 and Teresa, who passed away in 2005 In our thoughts and prayers

Loved and remembered by Michael, Geraldine and family.

Memories are precious They don’t fade away We think of you always Not just today.

Lovingly remembered by parents Dan and Angela, brother Tony and sisters Niamh and Aine. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 7th January in St. Mary’s Church, Ballygar at 7.30pm.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES McGAURAN Gerry

SMYTH Margaret

KELLY (nee Hannon) Mary (Maidie)

MONAGHAN Mary

COX James

Foxwood, Kilmore, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 26th of December 2015 R.I.P.

Athleague and Dublin Who died on 8th January 2016

Late of Caltraduff, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, Co Galway

(1st Anniversary)

Kilglass, Co. Roscommon James’ wife Betty and the Cox family wish to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown to us following our sad loss. We offer our heartfelt thanks to the many friends, neighbours and well-wishers who visited our home, attended the Wake, Removal and Funeral. Many having travelled long distances, over the days of his passing, sharing their stories and memories which were of great comfort to us. We offer our thanks to all those who helped us during those days. The friends and neighbours who helped at the house, provided traffic management, transported people to the house and helped in so many different ways. The grave diggers (our neighbours), a tradition that James would have appreciated so much. We also thank Fr. Kevin Fallon and Fr. Eamon O’Connor for their kindness to James and to us and also to the priests who con-celebrated his Funeral Mass, the soloist and organist for the beautiful music and McHugh’s Funeral Directors for their friendship and support. In the years during James’s illness many people provided support and care, we wish to thank the many wonderful carers who came into our home and provided for all his needs on a day to day basis and in particular, Agnes Murtagh. We would like to thank the other health care professionals who helped with James’s care, Dr. Hardiman, Bridget Dockery and MacAuliffe’s Pharmacy for the care in the community along with Dr. O’Mara and the staff of Roscommon County Hospital for their wonderful care on many occasions. Also, the Palliative Care Team who provided support to us in his final days. It would not be possible to acknowledge all individually, so please accept this acknowledgement.

Gerry’s wife Margaret, sons Niall, Hugh, Enda, Aidan and Karol, sisters Geraldine, Patty and Dolores, daughters-in-law, Clodá, Pamela and Tara and extended families wish to express our deepest gratitude to our relatives, neighbours and friends who sympathised and supported us on the death of our beloved Gerry. Our heartfelt thanks go to all of Gerry’s friends from Donegal to Kerry and beyond, who visited Gerry on regular occasions at our home and in Roscommon University Hospital during his illness. Their support was a huge source of comfort to both Gerry and the family. We will be forever grateful to Dr. Donald McCarthy and his team at St. Vincent’s Private Hospital and Dr. O’Mara and the Palliative Care Team at Roscommon University Hospital for the care and attention which they gave to Gerry during his illness. Thank you for your care. Thank you to all who attended Gerry’s Repose, Mass and Burial and to all who called to our home, who sent Mass Cards, text messages and phone calls. Sincere thanks to Fr. Tomasz Grzegorzewski who celebrated Gerry’s Funeral Mass and to Fr. Frank McGauran and Fr. Ciaran Whitney who concelebrated with him. Thank you to the Sacristan and the Altar Servers and to Pat McHugh, Funeral Directors for their professionalism and dignified manner in carrying out the Funeral arrangements. A special thank you to Angela, Clodá, Willie, Pamela, and Patty who provided the music for the Funeral Mass. It greatly enriched the ceremony. Our heartfelt thanks go to our wonderful neighbours who prepared Gerry’s final resting place, despite the dreadful weather, to all our neighbours who provided food and support to us throughout. Thank you to the Silver Eel for all food and refreshments provided. Thanks to all those who generously donated to the Palliative Care Unit in Roscommon Hospital. As it is impossible to thank everybody individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Gerry’s Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Half Parish Church on Friday the 6th of January at 7pm.

On the First Anniversary of our loving mother Margaret’s death we wish to express sincere thanks and deepest gratitude to all who attended and travelled long distances to the Removal, Funeral Mass and sent Mass Cards and messages of sympathy. A special word of thanks to Fr. Eugene McLoughlin and his concelebrants, Fr. Kazmir and Fr. Breslin, also Sr. Christina and Sacristan Kathleen and to the organist and choir for their lovely contribution to Margaret’s Mass. Thank you to Fr. Donnelly for receiving Margaret’s remains in the Church. Thank you to Undertaker, Henry Hamrock for his kindness and professionalism in organising the Funeral. Also to the gravediggers who prepared Margaret’s final resting place. We are grateful to the doctors, nurses and staff of Beaumont Hospital for their care in her last days. We also extend our gratitude to the Sisters, nurses, carers, volunteers and all staff of Little Sisters of the Poor, Sybil Hill, Raheny, Dublin for their wonderful care and attention to Margaret. We thank all our kind neighbours, relatives and friends who were a great support throughout this sad time and Hamrock’s and the Bridge House for providing food and refreshments after the Removal and Burial. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation. A Mass will be offered for your intentions. First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 8th January 2017 in Athleague Church at 10am.

Maidie’s children - Denise, Fintan and Raymond, daughters-in-law Joanne and Sinead, sister Nellie, grandchildren Donal and Conor and extended family would like to express our deepest gratitude to all who sympathised and supported us on the recent loss of our beloved Maidie. Sincerest gratitude to all our friends and neighbours who called, supported, listened and shared stories of cherished memories. To all who provided refreshments, baked, made tea and helped with the Funeral arrangements. Thanks to all who called to the house, attended the Wake, Removal, Funeral Mass and Burial and to those who sent Mass Cards, floral tributes, letters of sympathy and telephoned. Sincere thanks to our friends, relatives and neighbours for their support and kindness in our time of need. A special thanks to Fr Francis Beirne, for his deliverance of such a thoughtful and meaningful Funeral Mass, to the Mass Servers - Sinead, Sean and Eoin who gave Mam such a heartfelt farewell. Deep thanks to Michael Dempsey, Undertaker, for his exceptionally professional and considerate support and services. To the many close neighbours and friends who as gravediggers and with much care and love, prepared Mam’s final resting place. To the community of Ballyforan for their kind actions and Guard of Honour and to Bernie Moran and Tomas Kenny for such beautiful angelic music in the Church. To the Cunniffe children for easing the graveside journey with Mam’s favourite song, the Auld Bog Road. To the Ballyforan Altar Society for the beautiful Church flowers and to the exceptional team of friends and neighbours who provided tea and refreshments for the many Funeral attendees in Dysart Community Hall after the Burial. This epitomizes the strong and distinctive spirit and character of our community. Our thanks also to the paramedic team and the doctors and nurses in University College Hospital, Galway and Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, for looking after Mam with the highest of care and compassion. Our thanks also to Dr. Martin Daly and the Ballygar team for their care throughout the year. It would be impossible to thank each of you individually, so please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Month’s Mind Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan on Saturday 7th January 2017 at 10.30am.

ROGERS Pat & Angela Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

In loving memory of Mary, late of Hollygrove, Ballygar, Co. Galway, whose Anniversary occurs at this time May you always walk in sunshine, And God’s love around you flow, For the happiness you gave us, No one will ever know. It broke our hearts to lose you, But you did not go alone, A part of us went with you, The day God called you home.

Sadly missed and always remembered by all your family and friends. Anniversary Mass will be held in the Good Shepherd Parish Church, Doughishka, Galway at 11am on Sunday 8th January. BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

CLEARY Pauline Fairways, Roscommon Whose birthday occured on 6th January

Will those who think of her today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

Always remembered by her Godmother Joan and all the family.

In loving memory of our dear father and mother, Pat and Angela Rogers, who died 3rd January 1999 and 19th December 2008 Silent memories keep you near, As time unfolds another year. Out of our lives you may have gone, But in our hearts You still live on.

Always remembered by Pat, Marie and family, Kevin, Mairead and family, Jackie, Willie and family, Niall and family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Knockcroghery at 7pm on Saturday 7th January.

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.

Senator Frank Feighan

€37,000 for animal welfare groups Senator Frank Feighan has welcomed a total of €37,000 in funding for four local animal welfare organisations. “Roscommon SPCA in Castlerea is to receive €20,000 in funding; Fairyglen Animal Sanctuary, Arigna has been allocated €10,000; Athlone & West Midlands SPCA, Ballinasloe will get €4,000 and T.N.R. in Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon will receive €3,000. “I would like to sincerely thank Minister Michael Creed for making these funding allocations. “The funding clearly recognises the excellent work that these organisations are doing.”

Murphy on home care crisis Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Galway Eugene Murphy says there’s an “escalating crisis” in the provision of home care packages in counties Galway, Mayo and Roscommon with many families now losing vital hours they had previously been allocated. Deputy Murphy raised the issue under the Topical Issues section of the Dáil business recently. Deputy Murphy highlighted a number of cases in his constituency whereby people had requested additional hours due to a loved one’s condition deteriorating – but the HSE actually took home care hours away from them rather than allocating extra hours. Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People Helen McEntee acknowledged that there was a difficulty in allocating additional hours but she expressed concern that hours were being taken away from people who need them. The Minister said that she did not agree with hours and support being taken away from people “who clearly need them and had been availing of them up to now” and she said she would examine the cases highlighted by Deputy Murphy.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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Contact: ALLEN GLYNN (086) 4087492 Acceptance of an advertisement or payment therefore is not to be taken as implying guarantee that the advertisement will be published. The right is reserved to refuse to insert any advertisement, without giving any reason; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisement previously published, without compensation for any loss or damage claimed for non-publication. Publication of an advertisement cannot be guaranteed on a specific week or at all, whether or not a particular week has been stipulated by the advertiser, and the company will not be liable for any loss claimed by such omission, whether from all editions or any particular edition or editions of the paper. Right is reserved to alter any advertisement without liability for any compensation for such alteration. Further, the company does not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement.

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Death Duty comes home clear in Roscommon under Ruby Walsh.

This weekend’s action No racing in Ireland today with tomorrow’s meeting on the flat at the allweather in Dundalk, stalls opening for the first at 5.30 pm. Saturday’s racing takes place at Cork and on Sunday racing is in Naas, Co. Kildare both meetings starting at 12.50 pm. The Grade 1 Lawlor’s Hotel Novice Hurdle is the feature at Naas and has 9 entries as we go to press; Mullins has 3 along with Elliott, with Mouse Morris, Noel Meade and Enda Bolger one each. Take Elliott’s Death Duty to extend his unbeaten run over the minor obstacles which started at Lenabane in October.

News from Holiday Racing Festivals Champion trainer Willie Mullins laid down the gauntlet to the young pretender to the title Gordon Elliot over the Christmas with 22 winners across the cards during the 4 days racing. On St. Stephen’s Day, Mullins got off to a great start with 6 winners, 3 at the Foxrock venue and the same at Greenpark. On Tuesday, Mullins had 5 winners in the capital with son Patrick riding the bumper winner having come from Limerick, where he rode the first winner for his father, 12 up after 2 days. There was more of the same for WP on Wednesday with 4 at Leopardstown and only a single down south. Three more on Thursday in Limerick and a double at Leopardstown brought the tally to a record 22 winners. Elliott replied with 6 winners overall, 2 winners at each of the 3 meeting, Leopardstown, Down Royal and Limerick. At Down Royal on St. Stephen’s Day Mullins drew a blank. Cross channel at Kempton on Boxing Day, Yanworth won the Christmas Hurdle and is 3rd in the ante post market behind the Mullins pair of Faugheen and Annie Power for the Champion Hurdle. Thistlecrack beat Cue Card 3¼l in the King George and heads the market for the Gold Cup at Prestbury Park in March. Mullins’s Douvan, Min and Vroum Vroum Mag were among those who also established themselves at the head of the

Cheltenham ante post markets. Elliott won the Lexus with Outlander who beat stablemate Don Poli and Djakadam and showed they will all be there or thereabouts in March all going well.

General news The unluckiest jockey at the moment must be Bryan Cooper who once again is laid up for at least six to eight weeks with a pelvic injury following a fall from Arkwrist in Beginners Chase at Punchestown on Saturdayand misses the ride on Death Duty on Sunday. TV3 Group announced a new 4 year deal in December with Racecourse Media Group which started on New Year’s Day from Cheltenham. TV3 and 3e, not RTE, will broadcast terrestrial coverage of meetings at the Cheltenham Festival, the Aintree Grand National Festival, the Investec Epsom Derby and Oaks, Royal Ascot and other big meetings in Britain. Former national hunt jockey John Buckingham, who rode Foinavon to win the infamous 1967 Grand National, died before Christmas at the age of 76. Foinavon was so far behind at the 23rd fence that he alone avoided the chaos caused when a loose horse ran down the fence taking most of the other horses out of the race except Foinavon. The favourite Honeyend had to turn back and take the fence on his second approach finishing a gallant second beaten 15 lengths. It was Buckingham’s first ride in the race which he won at 100/1 on a horse whose owner and trainer did not even go to the meeting. The smallest fence on the course is now officially known as the Foinavon Fence since 1984.

Point to Point view There are two meetings on this weekend on Sunday racing takes place at Tinahely in Co Wicklow and at Aghabullogue in Cork, both with a scheduled 12.30 pm start. Wishing all our readers a very Happy and Prosperous New Year and hope your punting for 2017 proves very productive.

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John Buckingham and Foinavon all alone in the 1967 Grand National

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

SportsPeople Edging closer! Rossies’ FBD throw-in this Sunday

Shane Killoran moves the ball forward for Roscommon during last Monday’s challenge against Kildare. Roscommon’s FBD League campaign begins this Sunday against Sligo IT in Boyle. Match report and FBD preview inside… Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

SportsPeople

SICK AS AROSCOMMON PARROT/OVER THE MOON & DISTRICT LEAGUE NEWS The league remembers Kirrane and Riddell With the passing of Ray Kirrane and Johnny Riddell the Roscommon and District League lost two of its best known and loved people in the course of a week. Both Johnny and Ray played a big part in the success of the league particularly during its early years. Ray Kirrane started playing in goals for his native Castlerea Celtic back in the sixties before the formation of the Roscommon and District Football League. He played a big part in the formation of the very successful league in 1970 and was a referee’s chairman committee member and president in the intervening years. He developed a love for the game and was one of its great characters, loved by people all over the country. Very seldom does a group of footballing people meet in the Roscommon/East Galway area without Ray Kirrane’s name being mentioned.

Johnny Riddell and Ray Kirrane were really close friends who spent many hours chatting together. As a young man, Johnny played for Ballinasloe Town and later became a referee well known across Connacht. He was a top class referee in the Roscommon and District League for over thirty years. His warm personality endeared him to everyone. Rather unusually Johnny never drove a car but his patient wife Betty drove him to all the games and she was as well known and loved as Johnny. The Roscommon and District League would like to extend their sympathy to the Kirrane and Riddell family. To Ray’s wife Mary and their sons and extended family we extend our deepest sympathy. To Betty Riddell, her sons, daughters and extended family the league also extends its deepest sympathy. May they rest in peace.

Development planned for south Roscommon facilities A lot of good work has been carried out in recent years around Cam Celtic soccer grounds and adjoining facilities. The soccer club and community development committees have now come together in the hope of continuing with further developments in order to enhance the soccer grounds by improving fencing, lighting and also by planning for the possible construction of a walking track and Astro Turf training area for use by the whole community. In conjunction with this, a 50-50 draw will be launched this Friday night in McDermott’s Lounge in Curraghboy with the very first draw taking place on the night followed by music by Small Deal. Draws will continue weekly thereafter with a guaranteed winner every week. Sign-up forms can be obtained from any committee member and the €2 entry envelopes are available at all shops and public houses in both Brideswell and Curraghboy.

Creggs RFC Report

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Premier League referee Mike Dean had a superb game for Manchester United on Monday night.

Dooner’s weekend predictions Happy New Year to one and all. Outright leaders of the three divisions have emerged in the first half of the season but there will be plenty of twists and turns before silverware is presented…

Friday, 6th January Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 (8 pm) Shiven Rovers B v Cloonfad United B Cloonfad were by far the better side when these two met earlier in the season but away from home might be a different story. Prediction: Shiven Rovers B.

Saturday, 7th January Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 (7.45 pm) Castlerea Celtic B v Roscommon United Roscommon United have struggled away from home this season but should still manage a result here. Prediction: Draw.

Sunday, 8th January The Herald Premier Division Ballinasloe Town v Shiven Rovers (11 am) The Town will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing home defeat to Castlerea at Christmas. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town. St. John’s Athletic v Castlerea Celtic (11 am) Although they are currently nine points behind leaders Ballymoe, Celtic have recently shown signs that they will be in contention come the end of the season. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic. Ballaghaderreen FC v Moore United (11.30 am) Moore will be expecting Ballymoe to make it ten wins in a row this weekend and Castlerea Celtic are closing in. Three points is a must. Prediction: Moore United. Ahascragh United v Ballymoe FC (2 pm) Top against bottom and Ballymoe

will be expected to make it ten wins on the bounce. Prediction: Ballymoe FC. Skyvalley Rovers v Brazukas (2 pm) Brazukas will be hoping to make up for their three-point deduction and are capable away from home. However, Skyvalley have already beaten the Brazilians this season. Prediction: Draw. Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (All kick-offs 2 pm) Ballinasloe Town B v Lough Harps The visitors should have too much. Prediction: Lough Harps. Dunmore Town v CP Ajax Cracking contest in prospect here but home advantage should be enough to shade it. Prediction: Dunmore Town. Dysart FC v Loughglynn United Both sides have been involved in high-scoring games this season so expect goals this weekend. Prediction: Dysart FC.

Rahara Rovers v Kilkerrin United Rahara’s woes look set to continue this weekend. Prediction: Kilkerrin United. Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 (All kick-offs 2 pm, unless stated) Skyvalley Rovers B v Moore United B (11.30 am) Moore should win this by a wide margin. Prediction: Moore United B. Ballinagare FC v Hodson Bay Athletic The visitors will be hoping to continue where they left off before Christmas. Prediction: Hodson Bay Athletic. Cam Celtic v Dunmore Town B Celtic are in fine form and will be hoping for another clean sheet. Prediction: Cam Celtic. Moylough ’79 v Strokestown United The runaway leaders have a vicelike grip on the division. Prediction: Strokestown United.

THE GAIN LINE

Young Creggs teams make New Year return This week rugby returns after the Christmas break. Minis: Creggs Minis return with training next Saturday in Creggs at 11 am. U-13s: Creggs travel to Ballinasloe RFC next Saturday at 12.30 pm for an U-13 A League game. U-14s: Castlebar RFC will be visitors to Creggs next Saturday at 1.30 pm to play their refixed league game that was postponed prior to Christmas. U-15s: Following on from their good win over Claremorris RFC just before Christmas, the U-15s will welcome Carrick-on-Shannon this Saturday evening at 6 pm. U-18.5s: Creggs will hope to secure a top two finish and a home semi-final in the U18.5 A League when they welcome Connemara RFC to Creggs next Sunday at 1.30 pm. Connemara are in the running for a top 4 place themselves so this promises to be a tough encounter. All support would be welcome for all our youth sides.

Pictured is the Creggs U-15 side which beat Claremorris just before Christmas.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER

@dan_dooner

The Roscommon senior footballers will be hoping for plenty to shout about in 2017. Pic: Andrew Fox

Sporting hope springs eternal in 2017 THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner It’s that wonderful time of year when most sports fans in Ireland can dream. Nothing has been decided yet in the Premier League, Ireland are looking good in World Cup qualification and county footballers and hurlers have only started back training. Anything

could happen… The disappointment of last year has been replaced with renewed hope amongst most county teams although there seems to be a far more subdued outlook towards another year of Division One football for Roscommon. This is understandable following the frustration of 2016 and a number of high profile departures from the panel. However, the lack of

The week in numbers

The Roscommon senior football team moved up one place in RTE’s football rankings for 2016.

23 42

Meanwhile, the hurlers have dropped one place despite promotion and a run to the last eight in the Christy Ring Cup. The number of 180s shared by Michael Van Gerwen and Gary Anderson in Monday night’s PDC World Darts Championship, which is a record.

hype and lowered expectation can only be a good thing for a young team preparing for a crack at the best the country has to offer. Elsewhere, Liverpool fans are still dreaming of that elusive Premier League trophy while Man United fans are hopeful of a revival and an unlikely title charge. Old Trafford on Sunday week should offer some clarity for both! 2017 promises to be an ex-

citing year for both our international rugby and soccer teams too. The rugby team was in fantastic form during the recent autumn internationals and will be confident going into the Six Nations in the next few weeks. England should provide the main opposition there. The soccer team has made an impressive start to their World Cup qualification campaign and the result against Austria put the Boys

in Green in the driver’s seat ahead of the crucial game against Wales in March. So, the New Year has brought new hope as we prepare for what will hopefully be a busy and successful 12 months of sport for local clubs and athletes. Some things never change, however, and so Arsenal fans should still expect fourth place and Sam will still refuse to spend next winter in Mayo!

The sporting brief crystal ball edition Not surprisingly, none of my ‘predictions’ came true last year…but that won’t stop me from having another go this year.

Gaelic Football Roscommon come in under the radar this year. So far under the radar in fact that nobody even realises they’re there until 55 minutes into the Connacht Final. By that stage they’re 8 points up on a Mayo side who are still not over their All-Ireland defeat to Dublin. Roscommon hang on to set up a run to the All-Ireland semi-finals where they fall on their sword to a Jack McCaffrey inspired Dublin team.

Soccer Liverpool are set to close the gap on Chelsea at the top of

the Premier League table when disaster strikes at Old Trafford. Phillipe Coutinho, in protest at the club’s decision to block his transfer to Barcelona, dribbles towards his own goal. Jurgen Klopp can’t watch and so removes his glasses. Fortunately, Coutinho’s shot is straight at the ‘keeper, unfortunately, that keeper is Loris Karius and Liverpool lose 4-3. United go on to win their 21st title with Arsenal pipping City to fourth place.

Hurling Wexford storm through the championship playing a style of hurling that makes Henry Shefflin openly weep on Sky Sports. It’s beautiful and inspiring and all thanks to Davy Fitzgerald’s rather unusual decision to force the panel to take part in Ireland’s Fittest Family.

They go all the way to the All-Ireland Final where they meet Clare; unfortunately Davy is torn and instructs his side to offer no resistance. However, player power once again rears its head and Wexford finish the job on a scoreline of 4-32 to 3-30.

Boxing/MMA Conor McGregor dominates the UFC and then knocks Floyd Mayweather out in a sanctioned bout. He then challenges Katie Taylor to a ‘Best Fighter Ever’ fight in Dublin. Katie knocks him out in the first round and he quickly announces his return to plumbing. Wishing all our readers, advertisers and contributors a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Sporting week on Tweet Street Paddy Power @paddypower Compose yourself, mate. Pretend he’s a deep-fried Mars bar and come out fighting. (Paddy offered Gary Anderson some sound advice, but it wasn’t enough as Michael Van Gerwen stormed to victory in the PDC Darts World Championship.)

robert huth @robert_huth Pleased with the clean sheet, pity I couldn’t have tried one of those scorpion kicks! #lcfc (The Leicester City defender reckons he can go one better than Mkhitaryan and Giroud.)

Colm Parkinson @Woolberto Nigel Owens and Mike Dean should be disciplined for their respective disrespect towards players. Referees on power trips is a sad sight. (Agree with Mike Dean but not so sure about Owens!)

Calum MacLeod @cmacleod93 There’s a girl in our hostel room called manon and every time someone says her name I s**** myself and do a Cruyff turn. (I don’t know where to begin…)

In the sporting diary .... Rossies make competitive return Roscommon will take on Sligo IT in the FBD League opener this Sunday in Boyle. The preparation for the National League begins in earnest.

U-21s in Hastings action Roscommon’s U-21 footballers will entertain Westmeath at Kiltoom on Saturday at 2 pm.

Ballymoe aim to remain unbeaten Ballymoe FC will attempt to win their tenth league game in a row and maintain their superb unbeaten start to the RDFL Premier Division when they travel to Ahascragh United this Sunday at 2 pm.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

SportsPeople

Kilbride Ladies players and management pictured at a recent dinner dance in the Abbey Hotel where they received their Senior League and Championship medals.

Father and daughter Mattie and Yvonne Creighton pictured with their respective awards. Mattie was inducted into the Hall of Fame while Yvonne scooped Senior Ladies Player of the Year.

Marie Farrell, Kilbride Ladies secretary, Marie McAleer, Ladies County secretary, Marie Hickey, LGFA President and Davey Noone, Kilbride Ladies chairperson pictured at last Thursday’s Kilbride GAA Dinner Dance at the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon town.

World-class athletics returning to Athlone Top Class international athletics returns to Athlone Institute of Technology again this February. The 2017 AIT International Grand Prix is guaranteed to be a sell-out for the fourth year in a row as athletics fans across the country avail of the opportunity to witness some of the world’s best talent on show in the midlands arena. In the past this event has been blessed to have European, World and Olympic Champions, some of whom have broken meet, all-comers and continental records. Indeed in 2015 Mutaz Essa Barshim, in a scintillating performance, had three attempts at the World Indoor high jump record. Sub 4minute miles have become de rigueur in the men’s mile while four of the women’s 1500m field ran the World Indoor qualifying standard in 2016. World Champions Shawn Barber (pole vault) and Pavel Maslak (400m) both competed to amazing levels in 2016 alongside World 800m silver medallist Melissa Bishop.

As the fields for the 2017 event are currently being finalised, another amazing night of indoor athletics is promised with some of the sport’s biggest international and domestic names converging on Athlone. Definitely confirmed are Sally Pearson who holds Olympic and World Championship gold medals in the 100m hurdles and Mutaz Essa Barshim. Two of Ire-

land’s biggest talents, Ciara Mageen and Mark English, are also on the start list. English is currently preparing for an attempt at the world 600m record at the Grand Prix. AIT president, Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin, said: “We have a really top field of athletes lined up again for the Grand Prix in February. The fields will be filled with an even deeper level

of talent than we have ever had before and that is saying something. We are very excited about the event as are many athletics fans in Ireland. “Ticket prices are very competitive again this year. There are not many events in the world where you will witness such top class sportspeople at such prices”. Assistant Meet Director, Gordon Brett, believes that,

“the event can break into the top 10 indoor athletics meets in the world this year. We achieved an amazing ranking of 14th in the world in 2016 from a list of 600 similar events”. The recent Olympic Games were good to athletes who have appeared at the Grand Prix in past years. Nine athletes who have appeared at the Grand Prix won medals in Rio.

Timo De Water of the Netherlands competes in the men’s pole vault event at the AIT International Athletics Grand Prix in the Athlone Institute of Technology International Arena last year.

Elaine Hanly receives the Club Person of the Year award from Kilbride Chairperson, John O’Connor at the Kilbride GAA Dinner Dance last Thursday in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon.

Tremane Hurling’s annual draw this Friday Tremane Hurling Club will hold its annual draw and social night tomorrow night (Friday, January 6th) in Hamrock’s Bar in Athleague. This promises to be a great night to wind up the Christmas period. Tickets for the draw are still on sale from all club members from €10 each with €1000 first prize sponsored by Lynch Flooring, Roscommon. For a full list of prizes see the Tremane Hurling Club Facebook page.

Roscommon Ladies update A remainder to all clubs that Roscommon Ladies’ annual church gate collection takes place on the weekend of 21st and 22nd January. Posters can be collected from county executive. Clubs are also reminded that trials for all 2017 county squads are ongoing at the moment. Notification has been sent to the clubs. The County Board is running a number of coaching, mentors and refereeing courses and seminars in the near future, dates are listed below, please note that places are limited on these so early booking is advisable. January 16th – Level 2 refereeing course in Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon.

January 22nd – Fundamentals course in Ballymoe for all coaches. February 6th – Club mentor workshop also in Ballymoe for all coaches and club officials, February 11th and 12th – Grab your whistle level 1. In Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon. All these details have also been circulated to the clubs. Anyone wishing to have items published in our weekly notes please contact Ollie at rosladiespro@gmail.com. Finally best wishes to all our players, mentors, officers’ officials and supporters for the upcoming season. A very happy and peaceful new year from all at Roscommon Ladies GAA.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

@SeamusDuke

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Footballers back in action this weekend A very happy and sporting New Year to one and all, as I start our 11th year of the column. This Sunday, Roscommon’s footballers begin another year of competitive action and while a trip to Boyle to play Sligo IT will not be recalled at the end of 2017, supporters will be looking for signs as to what the possible starting line-up might be for the opening

of the National Football League, which is now only a month away. The players have not been doing as much training as they did last year and the average age level seems to have dropped even further. There are a few injuries but nothing serious. In his comprehensive interview with People Sport before Christmas, Kevin McStay outlined his

priorities for the year and winning the FBD League was certainly not one of those. Roscommon have a very difficult National Football League campaign coming up and it will be interesting to see what the style of play that will be adopted going forward. The fact that it’s a new year and a new beginning will draw a good crowd to the Abbey Park. We will

know more when this match and the ones against NUIG and Mayo are played. In his interview with The People before Christmas Kevin McStay said that a priority in the FBD League games would be to tie down positions at numbers 1, 3, 6, 8, 9, 11 and 14. The next few weeks will be interesting in that regard.

Senan steps away from county football The decision of Senan Kilbride to retire from inter-county football is a sad one because we can ill afford to be without quality, experienced players. However, Senan’s career in a Roscommon jersey was pockmarked by massive unfilled potential. Senan Kilbride has arguably (along with Frankie Dolan) been the best club player in Roscommon football over the past ten years. I have seen him play scores of games for St. Brigid’s when he was simply unmarkable. Senan is one of the most naturally gifted players that we have seen in the county in the past decade. However, that dominance that he enjoys in his position at club level never really transferred itself to the inter-county stage on a consistent basis. Yes, there were some

Liverpool can win title with a bit of luck It has been an interesting Christmas period in the Premier League and Chelsea are still out in front but Liverpool are on their tails and if they have a bit of luck to add to their outstanding play they can take the title this year for the first time since 1990. Jurgen Klopp has done a fantastic job and for them to be still at or near the top of the table with Coutinho out injured is a great achievement. But there is such a long way to go yet. Spurs, Arsenal and Man City are all in contention but the title looks to be between Chelsea and Liverpool. Manchester United are not going to win it either but they have a chance of getting into the top four. They are beginning to play the kind of football that United fans love to see and after a poor start to the season, United are building momentum. Pogba and Mkhitaryan are beginning to show their class and if Ibrahimovic stays fit United could finish very strongly. There have been some cracking matches so far and the standard seems to be much higher this season. Maybe it’s because there are so many of the top managers in the world now plying their trade in the English league. However, the latest news about the money available to players in the Chinese Super League is eye watering stuff. Carlos Tevez, who used to play for Man City and Man United, has signed a deal that will see him ‘earn’ €715,000 per week! The former Chelsea player Oscar is earning a mere €450,000 per week. They seem determined to attract the top names to China but so far it is only players that have gone over the hill that are moving. But it is only a matter of time. It is amazing that within the space of a week we saw two of the greatest goals ever scored in the game. When Manchester United’s Mkhitaryan scored a spectacular effort against Sunderland it looked like a once in a lifetime goal but less than a week later Olivier Giroud scored an even more brilliant effort against Crystal Palace. The Goal of the Season competition is over already!

Connacht’s struggles continue Senan Kilbride (pictured at last year’s Connacht Final preview night in Ballyleague) has announced his decision to retire from inter-county football. Pic: Andrew Fox

great moments including a mighty display against Down in the Division Two league final in 2015 which earned him a player of the month award and a super display against Leitrim in 2011 in the championship among others. His experi-

ence and skill will be a loss to the squad and there is no doubt about that. It has been my pleasure to interview Senan a number of times over the years and he is a thorough gentleman. I wish him well in his retirement and look

forward to see him playing for St. Brigid’s for many years to come. I also want to pay tribute to Niall Carty and Geoffrey Claffey both of whom stepped down recently. I have had a number of dealings with both players over

the years and they have always been courteous and co-operative. I hope that Senan, Niall and Geoffrey can remain involved to assist the younger players in the squad which will now be short on experienced players.

Darts hit the spot over Christmas

Dutchman Michael Van Gerwen was in superb form as he blitzed Scotland’s Gary Anderson 7-3 in Monday night’s PDC World Darts Championship Final at Alexandra Palace in London.

I, like many sports fans, have been captivated by the darts on Sky over the Christmas period. It was always a tradition that the BBC showed the World Darts Championship just after Christmas live from the old Circus Tavern, but since the advent of the PDC the sport is now absolutely huge and it is great TV.

The games are played at a lightning fast pace and the atmosphere is fantastic. The standard seems to be rising all the time and now there is a year round league for the top players. But the World Championships at the ‘Ally Pally’ is now a major sporting event and all credit to the people responsible for marketing the game.

The standard this year was incredible as Michael Van Gerwen bombed to the title. He blitzed Gary Anderson who actually played very well in the final but the young Dutchman was unbeatable over the course of the tournament. But there were some sensational matches over the few weeks that it was on.

Connacht’s brilliant season last year is now a distant memory as their struggles continue. However, to have over 20 players out injured leaves Pat Lam and his coaches in an impossible position. There are a couple of very important Champions Cup games coming up and they are probably the last hope of glory this season. With Pat Lam set to leave at the end of the season the powers that be will have a huge decision on their hands to choose an adequate replacement.

From the Internet On the website Balls.ie this week there is a list of ‘The Seven Most Interesting Men In The GAA’ and included in that list is Roscommon footballer, Neil Collins. Here is the piece... ‘Why is he interesting? Paul Galvin was at the vanguard of GAA players being unafraid to express an alternative sense of fashion. Others have followed, including Neil Collins. In an engaging column for the Irish Daily Mirror recently, the Roscommon player told of his passion outside of football. “I’ve always been interested in personal style and self expression. I see at as a way of communicating a lot of personality, in a very edgy, creative way. Between living in Dublin and travelling the world, I have seen a lot of different forms of expression, but my favourite is through clothes and personal styling,” he says.’ (Courtesy of Balls.ie)

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

SportsPeople

Late Doyle goal wins it for Lilywhites Shalom Senior Football Challenge KILDARE

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ROSCOMMON

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< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s preparations for the new season continued in the bright winter sunshine at Kiltoom on Monday when a goal from Eoin Doyle two minutes from time proved decisive in what was a very enjoyable game for the good crowd who were present to support the Shalom charity. From a Roscommon point of view, the positives included good displays from David Murray, Seanie McDermott (who was started at centre half-back), Ultan Harney, Enda Smith and subs, Tadhg O’Rourke and Shane Killoran.

In the search for a solid spine to the team, the selectors picked Colm Lavin in goal, Sean Mullooly at full-back, Seanie McDermott at centre-back. Ultan Harney and Kevin Higgins were started at midfield with Ciaráin Murtagh and Donie Smith filling the central roles in attack and they enjoyed varied amounts of success as the trial period continues ahead of the National League in a month’s time. It was nip and tuck in the first half with the sides kicking some fine points, although Kildare full-forward Daniel Flynn was causing havoc in the Ros-

common defence and by half-time he had kicked five points from play as the visitors led by 0-9 to 0-7. Donie Smith, Ciaráin Murtagh and Enda Smith had kicked some good points for Roscommon. Early second half points for Kildare from Paul Cribbin and Neil Flynn saw the lead stretch to four but an excellent Enda Smith goal in the 39th minute saw the gap cut to the bare minimum. Roscommon caught Kildare in possession and Ciaráin Murtagh sent Enda Smith in on goal and he made no mistake from close range. It was close all the way after that and sub Gary Patterson levelled the scores at 1-9 to 0-12 in the 45th minute with a fine point. It was score for score until the Rossies took the lead in the 61st minute when

Seán Mullooly puts Johnny Byrne under pressure. Picture: Andrew Fox

Shane Killoran searches for options. Picture: Andrew Fox

another sub, Shane Killoran, was on target, and when Donie Smith pointed a free a minute later Roscommon were two ahead. But with six minutes to go, Neil Flynn’s free cut the gap to one and then in the 68th minute Fionn Dowling’s super pass found Eoin Doyle and he blasted home what was to be the winning score. Neil Flynn’s late free saw the visitors extend their lead to three and it was about a fair reflection on the balance of play. Roscommon now set their sights on the opening round of the FBD League on Sunday in Boyle at 2 pm when they take on Sligo IT. Kildare: Mark Donnellan;

Peter Kelly, David Hyland, Mark Hyland; Shea Ryan, Eoin Doyle (1-0), Johnny Byrne (0-1); Kevin Feely, Tommy Moolick (0-1); Con Kavanagh, Conor Hartley, Paul Cribbin (0-2); Neil Flynn (0-6, 4 frees), Daniel Flynn (0-6), David Slattery. Subs used: Fionn Dowling, Mick O’Grady, Ollie Lyons, Keith Cribbin, Darren Maguire, Shane McNamara, Pascal Connell, Eddie Heavy. Roscommon: Colm Lavin; David Murray, Sean Mullooly, Niall McInerney; Niall Daly, Seanie McDermott, John McManus; Ultan Harney (0-1), Kevin Higgins (0-1); Fintan Cregg (0-1), Ciaráin Murtagh (0-2, 1 free), Enda Smith

(1-2); Diarmuid Murtagh (0-1), Donie Smith (0-3, 1 free), Niall Kilroy. Subs: Gary Patterson (0-1) for McManus (h/t), Shane Killoran (0-1) for D Murtagh (h/t), Tadhg O’Rourke for

Higgins (h/t), Andy Glennon for Kilroy (45), Thomas Corcoran for Harney (55), Tom Fetherston for Mullooly (57). Referee: Maurice Deegan (Laois)

Wides: Roscommon 8 Kildare 7

Marks: There were three ‘marks’ taken in the game, all by Roscommon players in the second half. Tadhg O’Rourke took two and Thomas Corcoran one.

Note: There was a minute’s silence before the game in memory of Colm McManus of Ashbourne Co. Meath, nephew of Eamon and Tony McManus who died last weekend.

Roscommon People Friday 06 January 2017

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INSIDE: Late goal wins it for Lilywhites See page 47

Gary Patterson battles for possession during last year’s FBD League game between Roscommon and Sligo IT in Ballintubber. Roscommon ran out comfortable winners 1-20 to 0-10. Pic: Andrew Fox

Rossies set for Sligo students’ FBD test FBD League Roscommon v Sligo IT on Sunday in Boyle at 2 pm

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon will move their preparations for the new season on another step when they take on Sligo IT in the traditional opener of the FBD League at the Abbey Park, Boyle on Sunday. The two challenge games against Meath and Kildare have been useful for the players to blow away the cobwebs and although the

FBD League is well down the list of priorities, there will be indications as to the team formation as the games take place. Roscommon team manager Kevin McStay told me that he is happy with the way preparations have gone thus far. “We are happy enough with how things are going. We looked like beating Kildare but we gave away

a soft goal at the end of the game but for the small amount of work we have done I thought we played well. I was very happy with the subs. Tadhg O’Rourke, Shane Killoran and Tom Fetherston all did very well and that’s what we want to do, to give the younger lads a chance. I was very happy overall with that Kildare game, it was a great workout for us,” he said.

“We are in good shape now and our injury list is small which is good too and we will be fielding a decent team on Sunday but we will be looking at all the players within the panel over the three games. We need lads to play games now. We will be upping the workload with regard to training in January and we need to do that and our target is Ty-

rone in the opening round of the league, but so far, so good,” he concluded. It will be interesting to see who mans the vital centre positions as the search goes on for the right blend ahead of what will be a very tough league campaign. Some more clues to the new season will emerge on Sunday in Boyle as to how the preparations are going.

Roscommon footballers injury update Roscommon GAA issued an injury update earlier this week ahead of the start of the 2017 season. “The injury situation is good as far as we only have three players whom we can classify as having ‘long-term injuries’. We have four players whom we classify as having ‘short-term injuries’ or niggles and should be back and available for selection in the next two weeks. Long term injuries (No return date set): Fergal Lennon, Donal Keane and Cathal McHugh. Short term injuries (Due back in the next two weeks approximately): Conor Devaney, Cathal Compton, Brian Murtagh and Cian Connolly.”