2017 01 20 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

20 January 2017

The Local Paper

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

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

BACKLASH OVER RATES

Roscommon County Council and the Dublin-based Valuation Office were both in the firing line this week after Roscommon businesses expressed concern and confusion about a new approach on commercial rates. Roscommon Chamber of Commerce President Sean Mahon said the Proposed Valuation Certificates issued in County Roscommon by the Valuation Office caused considerable concern for local businesses. Mr. Mahon said that he had received numerous calls and texts from business owners who, on receiving correspondence from the Valuation Office, were concerned that their rates liability was increasing by 300% to 400%. This, however is not the case. The Chamber has advised that once a new multiplier is applied, business owners will see that “there should be little or no fluctuation on the amount of rates” that they should pay. However Mr. Mahon says businesses in Roscommon have been paying higher level of rates per square metre than businesses in all other counties. “The real question that has to be asked following the revaluation is why is it that the rates in County Roscommon are on a price per metre basis higher than they are in other Ali Campbell, Laoise Mahon and Kate O’Brien pictured in Ballyforan during Roscommon’s FBD counties? This is a question for the County Council to an- League win over NUIG on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox swer.” See pages 3 and 12.

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

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Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

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

People WATCHING Scoil Bhríde Doodle 4 Google! Students from Scoil Bhríde, Fourmilehouse, were celebrating recently when it was announced they had qualified as semi-finalists in the Doodle 4 Google, ‘If I could create anything, it would be...’ competition 2017. Huge congratulations to the girls and we wish them the best of luck in the next stage of the competition!

Pictured are Scoil Bhríde, Fourmilehouse students Ruth Dennigan (Senior Infants), Lilymae Gavigan (First Class) and Sadhbh Kelleher (Junior Infants) who have qualified for the semi-finals of the ‘Doodle for Google’ competition.

Rooskey link with Young Scientist winner

Scoil Mhuire Strokestown

The column was delighted to hear news of Shane Curran’s brilliant success in winning the 53rd BT Young Scientist & Technology competition. Shane Curran, a 5th year student from Terenure College, Dublin 6, won the top prize for his project entitled ‘qCrypt: The quantum-secure, encrypted, data storage solution with multijurisdictional quorum sharding technology’. His mother Paula is a native of Rooskey, Co. Roscommon where his grandparents Colm and May reside.

Open Evening and Enrolment for incoming First years Thursday, January 26th at 7.00pm For further details contact Principal:

Mr Eamonn Corrigan

Gallagher’s love of Leitrim recalled Senator Frank Feighan has described the late Dermot Gallagher as one of Ireland’s truly great public servants who always retained a deep love for his native Leitrim. “I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dermot whose lifetime in public service was marked with distinction, not least his contribution to the peace process during his time as Secretary General at the Department of Foreign Affairs. “I had the privilege of getting to know Dermot and I always found him extremely helpful during my time as Chairman of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. “Despite his huge workload during his time as a diplomat and as a key figure in the Department of Foreign Affairs, Dermot never missed an opportunity to talk about his native Leitrim, which he loved dearly.”

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

Contract Law and Minors

It’s a tremendous achievement for Shane and we congratulate Shane and his family and no doubt Rooskey is proud of him!

We also congratulate all students from this area who competed so impressively in this year’s Young Scientist & Technology competition.

Tel: 071 9633223 email: scoilmhuirestrokestown@eircom.net

newsbrief

100 years young! Pictured celebrating his 100th birthday in Fairymount Church recently is Michael Coyne. He is pictured with Padraic Dooley and his daughter Marianne, who was the youngest person present!

Deputy Principal:

Seamus O Donghaile At 071 9633223

I would appreciate your advice please. My 15 year old daughter wanted an IPAD for Christmas. She will use it for her school work so I agreed even though it would be very expensive. She asked for the money instead as she wanted to go to Dublin after Christmas shopping with her friends to buy it. I reluctantly agreed. However, I was horrified when I discovered that she used the money to buy some very expensive shoes instead of the IPAD. I immediately confiscated the shoes which cost more than €500. They were never worn and I am hoping that the shop will give me my money back. Please advise me. I can imagine your frustration, teenagers will be teenagers! From a legal point of view, I would say that every time we purchase an item in the form of goods or services we enter into a contract with the seller. A contract is in essence a formal agreement between two or more people that is enforceable by law. Under Irish law a child is defined as anyone under the age of 18. Unless you are or were married, you cannot enter a legally binding contract until you are aged 18 years. An exception to this rule would be a contract for necessaries. A contract for necessaries would usually include contracts for the purchase of food, clothing and lodging. It may also cover contracts for items connected with education and training such as school books and training uniforms. The law presumes that everyone has the capacity to enter into a contract. However, if you can prove incapacity to make a contract then this incapacity may defeat the contract and make it unenforceable. The general rule is that a contract will not be binding on a child. I would suggest that you make contact with the shop in question, highlight the fact that your daughter was aged just 15 years at the date of purchase and arrange to return the shoes. I would hope that the shop in question would be reasonable and allow for a full refund. If not, I would suggest that you consider bringing the matter before the Small Claims Court.

newsbriefs Roscommon ICA news A big thank you from Roscommon’s ICA guild to the Solstice Choir who provided us with beautiful carol singing in The Square, Roscommon during Christmas week. It helped us to raise €332.16 towards the chosen charity this year, Join Our Boys. Thank you to all who donated. The next meeting of Roscommon ICA guild will take place on Tuesday, 7th of February in Hannon’s Hotel at 8 pm. All welcome.

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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

Michelle Carney, who is originally from Cullaigh, Ballinasloe, was ‘home for the New Year weekend’ and was happy to support the Padraig Pearses GAA Club Lotto when asked. She’s glad she did, because Michelle’s just won the €20,000 jackpot! Michelle, originally Burns, is pictured receiving her cheque. Left to right: Janet Ansley with her son Conor, representing Moycarn Lodge and Marina Hotel (ticket sellers), Paddy Seale (Chairman, Padraig Pearses GAA) and jackpot winner Michelle Carney-Burns.

Compiled by PAUL HEALY

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople

Concern over rates valuation Roscommon Chamber of Commerce President Sean Mahon (pictured right) says the Proposed Valuation Certificates issued in County Roscommon by the Valuation Office in Dublin have caused considerable concern to the businesses who have received them. Mr. Mahon said that it is “extremely unfortunate” that the letter from the Valuation Office didn’t explicitly state that the proposed valuation was not the business owners’ rates liability. “They did it in a footnote at the end of the letter but it was not explicit enough. People essentially saw the proposed valuation and didn’t read into the smaller detail. “In calculating the rates liability the proposed valuation has to be multiplied by 0.25 (÷ 4). By way of an example, if the proposed valuation was €6,000 then the rates liability would be €1,500. The proposed valuation is fixed by the Valuation Office in Dublin. The multiplier which is called the ‘annual rate of valuation’ is set by Roscommon County Council and the indication given by Roscommon County Council is that the multiplier will be 0.25, hence the reason for dividing the valuation by 4.” Mr. Mahon said that he had received numerous calls and texts from businesses who were concerned that their rates liability was increasing by 300% to 400%. “I can only assume that they didn’t apply the multiplier. In reality there should be little or no fluctuation on the amount of rates you pay. The indication given was that the rates would increase or decrease in the range of 5%.” The Chamber President said that it is now essential to see how the valuations in Roscommon are compared to the rest of the country and to also determine what the multiplier has been set at by other County Councils. “Roscommon County Council have indicated that the multiplier will be 0.25. This is still too high. Businesses in Roscommon have been paying higher level of rates per square metre than businesses in all other counties. And it is not confined to commercial rates. We also pay more per

cubic metre to Veolia for water rates than our surrounding counties.” He continued: “The real question that has to be asked following the re-valuation is why is it that the rates in County Roscommon are on a price per metre basis higher than they are in other counties? This is a question for the County Council to answer.”

Help is at hand… Roscommon Chamber President Sean Mahon says that if ratepayers determine that their rates have increased and they are looking to challenge it then they must do so within 40 days from the date of the letter advising them of the proposed valuation. “If they are concerned about it they can make contact with either myself or any other member of the Chamber Executive and we will endeavour to assist them. “Alternatively there is a helpline that they can call. The number is 01 8171033.”

People ‘confused and angry’ says Fitzmaurice Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice called for Roscommon County Council and all other such local authorities to address “misunderstanding and

Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice.

anger” amongst ratepayers. He said that county councils have an onus to come out and explain this new system to the business people. The Independent TD said that a number of constituents of his had contacted him in recent days. “These people received their commercial rates demands and are very confused and angry at what they got in the post. “Roscommon and other county councils should have gone out and explained the changes to the system to the people affected before sending out these bills which are causing widespread confusion and misunderstanding,” he said. “Even after using the multiplier many small business people have found that their rates have gone up by up to 50%. Many of these demands will have to go to appeal before the 27th of February. “A lot of small businesses will go to the wall if their rates bill keeps going up every year.”

Ballintubber roadworks welcomed by Dineen Cllr. Nigel Dineen has thanked Roscommon County Council for their cooperation with safety works being carried out on the pedestrian footpath from Ballintubber National School heading towards the Old School House. “This footpath project will ensure greater

pedestrian safety with greatly improved pavement” Cllr. Dineen commented. “This issue was brought to my attention by concerned local residents and I am delighted to see these works being carried out. Thanks to Roscommon County Council and all staff concerned” Cllr. Dineen concluded.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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Progress at Cloonakilla NS welcomed Senator Frank Feighan has welcomed the substantial progress on the building project for the new Cloonakilla National School in South Roscommon. “As anyone living locally will clearly see, the building works are making great strides and the new school is on schedule to be

ready for the 2017/2018 school year, commencing this September. “Planning for the layout of the new classrooms is well underway and I understand that the new roof will be under construction this month. “After a long hard-fought cam-

paign by the school, stakeholders and public representatives going back many years, it is fantastic to see that a state-of-the-art school is finally being built. “Cloonakilla NS had an overwhelming case for a new school to cater for the rapid expansion in enrolment numbers.

“The construction of this twostorey building project will comprise 16 classrooms, a general purpose hall, staff areas, library, stores, a hard-play area with three courts and a new car-parking/set down area. “I look forward to the project’s continued progress.”

Photograph 1

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newsbriefs Fitzmaurice: Start dredging Shannon Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice has called for dredging of the Shannon to commence. He told the Roscommon People: “With the new Dáil term starting this week it is imperative that the problems that arose last year at Ardmullen, Lough Funshinagh, Athleague, Castleplunkett, Bushfield and Boyle – to mention just a few areas – are resolved once and for all. “There can be no excuses this year as it has been agreed at long last that dredging and clearance work needs to be done on the River Shannon, which is a step forward. But the funding mechanism must be put in place now to ensure that all the projects that have been agreed are done.” Deputy Fitzmaurice said people cannot be living in fear of more flooding which may put them out of their homes or destroy their land or property.

Photograph 1 shows the clearance works which got underway on the new Cloonakilla National School in June of last year while photograph 2 shows the significant building works which have taken place since.

Photograph 2

Welcome for new Principal at Coláiste Chiaráin, Athlone The Interim Board of Management of Coláiste Chiaráin, Athlone has announced the appointment of Mr. Brendan Waldron as Principal of the College. Mr. Waldron will take up the post at the beginning of February 2017. A native of Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo, Mr. Waldron is a member of the Athlone/South Roscommon community, living in Bealnamulla for a number of years. He has strong links with local community and sporting organisations. Mr. Waldron is a graduate of the University of Limerick and Maynooth University. At present he is working with the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST) on secondment from Mercy Secondary School, Kilbeggan, Co. Westmeath, where he taught Construction Studies, Materials Technology (Wood), Technical Graphics and Design and Communication Graphics. His work with PDST included supporting the professional development of teachers and schools nationwide – in particular with Transition Year, Technology Subjects and ICT in learning, teaching and assessment. Over his career, he has also has been involved in many aspects of education and leadership, including ICT and educational policy development. Responding to his appointment, Mr. Waldron said: “I am delighted to have been appointed the first Principal of Athlone’s newest second level college – Coláiste Chiaráin. The new amalgamated school represents an exciting and hugely significant development for Athlone and South Roscommon. “I am committed to working together with the staff, students and parents of St. Aloysius College and St. Joseph’s College, the College

Mr. Brendan Waldron, Principal Coláiste Chiaráin, Athlone

Board of Management, the Diocese of Elphin and the entire community to ensure that Coláiste Chiaráinwill be a welcoming centre of learning where every student will be cared for as he/she develops physically, spiritually and intellectually during their secondary education. “I am also very much looking forward to leading the process for the construction of a new state-of-the-art school building on the Summerhill campus which will bring with it some of the very best educational facilities in the country.

“In the near future, I hope to meet prospective students and their parents at Coláiste Chiaráin’s first enrolment night on Wednesday, 25th of January in Summerhill at 7 pm.” The Patron of the College, Bishop Kevin Doran said: “I warmly welcome the appointment of Mr. Brendan Waldron as Principal of Coláiste Chiaráin. He has significant experience both in teaching and in supporting teachers, which will be one of his key tasks in the years ahead. “Coláiste Chiaráin is intended to ensure that young people in the West Athlone area will have the option, in their own community, of a Catholic education to the highest academic standards. It seems appropriate, therefore that the new Principal is someone who has established his own roots in that same community. I look forward very much to working with Brendan.” The Chairperson of the Interim Board of Management of Coláiste Chiaráin, Mr. Frank Smith noted how the appointment of Mr. Waldron as Principal marked another significant and exciting milestone in the development of the new College. He said: “I congratulate Mr. Waldron and wish him well in leading and shaping the College into the future. Today, in a particular way, I would also like to thank Mr. Gearóid Ó Conámha, Principal of St. Aloysius College and Mr. Liam Nally, Principal of St. Joseph’s College for their support for and continued work on the new school project and to wish them well as they complete their terms as Principal over the summer of 2017.”

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople St. Comán’s Wood co-educational Primary School OPENING SEPTEMBER 2017

Special guest for Garden Club meeting The Christmas decorations are all packed away for another year, the children are all back at school and the Roscommon Garden Club is back and ready for a new year of gardening. Our next meeting will be held on Monday, 30th of January at the Abbey Hotel and will start at 8 pm. We are so delighted to welcome back by popular request the very well-known Paraic Horkan. Paraic will talk to us about garden design and he will give

us seasonal gardening tips and ideas. The Horkan name is widely known throughout Ireland for the last 80 years with regard to horticulture and pets. They were a small business when they started but today they have a workforce of 150 and a huge amount of experience and knowledge. They now have six award winning garden and lifestyle centres, seven pet world stores and two online stores.

One thing that hasn’t changed in the last 80 years is the love the Horkan family has for what they do. Paraic himself is a leading gardening expert and is well-known for his regular radio broadcasts, television appearances and newspaper columns. There will be plenty of opportunity for all your gardening questions to be answered so make a note of any problems, difficulties or queries which may be problematic in your garden.

Registration of new entrants for September 2017 Come to our Information Evening on both sites (for parents only)

Thursday, 26th January at 8pm Children very welcome with parents, on both sites: Tuesday, 31st January, 6.30pm - 8.00pm

Scoil Mhuire site (Infants to 3rd class) Abbey site ( 4th to 6th class)

Application Forms are available from pre-schools or for collection from the reception at either site - Scoil Mhuire or the Abbey N.S.

Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin TD pictured with Conor Lavan, Michael Egan and Simon Leonard from Roscommon Community College at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition in the RDS in Dublin. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography.

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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 20 January 2017

NewsPeople

Razan Ibraheem pictured with Ballaghaderreen’s Mary Gallagher during a recent visit to the town.

Syrian journalist’s love letter to Ballaghaderreen Refugees’ latest on page 29 < DAN DOONER

Syrian journalist who works for Storyful in Dublin made headlines last week when she wrote a ‘love letter’ to the people of Ballaghaderreen following the announcement that the town will welcome 84 refugees in March. Razan Ibraheem wrote her letter following a visit to the town last week. Earlier this week, Razan spoke to the Roscommon People and explained how she came to live in Ireland. She said: “I came to Ireland in 2011. I was doing my Masters in University of Limerick. I finished my Masters but I couldn’t go back home because of the war.” Razan arrived in Ireland just as the unrest was beginning in Syria and had intended to return there having completed her studies. “My plan was never to stay in Ireland, I was due to return to Syria to work. I left all my family in Syria but last year I managed to

get my brother and sister out. My father and mother are still there,” Razan said. The war in Syria has not only claimed many lives, it has also made life for those living there unbearable. Razan said that cities such as Damascus have been left without water for up to four weeks and that electricity is unavailable for up to 20 hours a day. She said the situation is appalling and has affected everyone in the country. The young woman has hope however that, with the help of countries such as Ireland, the Syrian people can regain their dignity. She said: “I think the Irish in general are very welcoming. The people in this area (Ballaghaderreen) are genuine and very honest. This will be a positive contribution to the community. Integration, listening to each other and exchanging cultures will be very positive for Ballaghaderreen and the people arriving there.”

Razan also said that “very open conversation” is one way in which local people can address any concerns they may have while those Syrians arriving from refugee camps in Greece will be happy just to escape the harsh environment. “I think of them arriving in Ballaghaderreen and sleeping in clean beds and living with dignity. Definitely it will be a very positive contribution for the beautiful area of Ballaghaderreen,” she added. The way in which the arrival of the refugees was announced by Justice Department officials caused controversy locally but Razan insists that the people in Ballaghaderreen can work together to ensure the situation has a happy ending. “Why wait for the politicians? We are on the ground and we can talk to each other. We all have concerns and it always should be a very open conversation between the people,” she said.

Razan’s letter… Dear Ballaghaderreen, This letter is from a Syrian woman living and working in Ireland who had the honour and pleasure of visiting you today. Seeing your beautiful town and meeting your fantastic people have enlightened my life. Syrian refugees will be very lucky to live among such a wonderful and accepting community. I met so many lovely people including Mary Gallagher, the true soul and heart of Ireland.

I had the best pint of Guinness at the Fiddlers Elbow pub and also the nicest cuppa in Spells bar. Everybody I met, as I wandered around the town in the afternoon of my visit, went out of their way to make me feel welcome. By hosting Syrian refugees, you are not only saving and protecting them, you are truly creating new lives with new hope and dreams for the future. You are a true Irish model, let’s tell the whole world about it. Thank you! Love, Razan

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Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople

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

Murphy calls for Ross to save Expressway Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy has called on the Minister for Transport to ensure that the Expressway service, which her says is vital for rural Ireland, is safeguarded for the future. “Bus Éireann’s financial position has worsened considerably since Minister Ross took office. However it seems that the Minister is oblivious to this problem and is unaware that the company is on the verge of shutting down many of its key routes serving large swathes of the country,” said Deputy Murphy. “Bus Éireann reported losses of up to €5.6 million for 2015, an estimated €6m in 2016 and now it is anticipated that losses will exceed €7m for 2017. This is deeply worrying considering the improving economy and demonstrates that there is a fundamental problem at the heart of Bus Éireann’s operations. “The semi-state company faults some Expressway services for the significant mounting losses. As a result, the company is planning to make sweeping changes to routes serving vast swathes of the country, which it will publish in an upcoming report by Grant Thornton auditors. “If the Expressway services to Dublin or other cities is cut this will further the economic gap between rural and urban Ireland. This is further evidence of the neglect of rural Ireland by Fine Gael and their Independent colleagues. Rural isolation is becoming one of the most worrying prospects for my constituents and if we lose vital bus route

Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy

services such as the Expressway service from Ballina to Dublin which is vital for the movement of people from the West of Ireland to Dublin, it will leave our students, tourists, day shoppers and many more commuters without any form of transport that will get them to the small villages and towns along the way for whom this service is vital.”

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

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople Advertorial

ABBEY HOTEL ROSCOMMON

10% Discount On All Weddings Booked EXTENDED UNTIL JANUARY 31ST

One lucky couple will win a wedding package worth €800 from the Enchanted Wedding Company

E: weddings@abbeyhotel.ie T: 090 6626240

Abbey Hotel Weddings: 10% offer extended common for sponsoring luxury ‘His & Hers’ hamper, Medussa Hair Salon, Athlone, RoseAnne Kelly Make-up Artist, Joule Skincare, Lucy Carthy at Eden Skincare, Tom Leahy Toothwhitening, Olivia Danielle, Athlone and Letters & Lights for amazing giveaways.”

See photos on page 35 Due to the fantastic response at their annual Wedding Fair on Sunday last, the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon have extended their wedding promotion offer with 10% off all weddings booked before the 31st of January. Couples who visited the wedding fair can make a follow-up appointment with wedding Co-ordinator Lisa Mullally to discuss available dates and our range of wedding packages. Describing the fair as a great success, Geraldine Grealy, Marketing & PR Manager said: “Thank you

Pictured at the Wedding Fair in the Abbey Hotel last Sunday evening were Leah and Ian Bell. Picture: Andrew Fox

to Pete’s Pops Bespoke Wedding Cake Suppli-

ers, Weddings Couture, Molloy’s Pharmacy, Ros-

WEDDING PROMOTION DRAW The Abbey Hotel have teamed up with the Enchanted Wedding Company to offer one lucky couple a chance to win a stunning Wedding Package which includes a Flower Wall Backdrop (similar to the one featured in Kim Kardashian’s wedding to

Kanye West) a pretty postbox to keep your wedding cards safe, lanterns and six beautiful cherry blossoms to decorate your wedding room. “This fantastic prize is worth over €800. We also have a 2-tier wedding cake from creative cake designer Peter Manvell from Pete’s Pops, Knockcroghery, a Bridal Teeth whitening from Midland Tooth Whitening and a set of Mr & Mrs Love Signs supplied by Letters & Lights.” Follow us on Facebook & Twitter, email weddings@ abbeyhotel.ie or call 0906626240 to arrange to make an appointment with Wedding Co-ordinator Lisa Mullally.

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Pictured is Ann-Marie Murray, Knockcroghery, winner of St. Dominic’s GAA 50/50 Draw on St. Stephen’s Day, receiving her cheque for €1,727 from Club Coaching and Games Officer Tomás Gilleran.

Roscommon Women’s Network news Castlerea Women’s Group will be meeting again on Wednesday, 25th of January and every Wednesday thereafter in Roscommon Women’s Network. All are welcome. QQI Level 4 Retail Skills Course will be commencing on Monday, 13th of February in RWN Training Centre. Contact 094-9621690 for further details. ECDL computer course will be commencing at the beginning of March in RWN Training Centre. Contact 094-9621690 for further details.

Derrane Altar Society A meeting of Derrane Church Altar Society will take place in the church on Monday, 23rd of January at 8 pm. New members are welcome.

Annual Loughglynn Woodlands Run/Walk Loughglynn will once again host its annual Woodlands Run/Walk this year – it will be held on Sunday, 30th of April. This event has proven to be a great success and this year’s proceeds will go to the CPR/defibrillator project.

Lisnamult Draw winners The Lisnamult Draw results for January are as follows: €100 David Brady, €100 Eoghan Dillon, €50 Josephine Hennigan, €25 Chris McDonagh, €25 John Lennon and €25 Owen Hoare.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople

REVALUATION OF RELEVANT PROPERTIES IN THE RATING AUTHORITY AREAS OF LONGFORD, ROSCOMMON AND WESTMEATH COUNTY COUNCILS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE VALUATION ACTS 2001 TO 2015. I, John O’Sullivan, Commissioner of Valuation, hereby give notice that, under section 26 of the Valuation Act, 2001 as amended by section 11 of the Valuation (Amendment) Act 2015, Proposed Valuation Certificates have issued to occupiers of relevant rateable properties in the rating authority areas of Longford, Roscommon and Westmeath County Councils. An occupier who is dissatisfied with any of the particulars contained in his or her Proposed Valuation Certificate may, within 40 days of the date of the issue of that Proposed Valuation Certificate, make representations to the relevant valuation manager in relation to that matter. Any ratepayer or occupier of a rateable property in the said rating authority areas who has not received a Proposed Valuation Certificate should inform the Valuation Office by e-mail at reval2017@valoff.ie or by telephoning Lo-Call 1890 531 431 or 01 8171033 between 9.30am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday. John O’Sullivan, Commissioner of Valuation

ATHLUACHÁIL NA MAOINE ÁBHARTHA I LIMISTÉIR ÚDARÁIS RÁTÁLA CHOMHAIRLÍ CONTAE AN LONGFOIRT, ROS COMÁIN AGUS NA hIARMHÍ, DE RÉIR NA nACHTANNA LUACHÁLA 2001 GO 2015. Fógraímse, John O’Sullivan, an Coimisinéir Luachála, leis seo, faoi alt 26 den Acht Luachála, 2001, arna leasú le halt 11 den Acht Luachála (Leasú) 2015, gur eisíodh Deimhnithe Luachála Beartaithe chuig áititheoirí áitreabh ábhartha inrátaithe i limistéir údaráis rátála Chomhairlí Contae an Longfoirt, Ros Comáin, agus na hIarmhí. Féadfaidh áititheoir nach bhfuil sásta le haon cheann de na sonraí atá ina Dheimhniú Luachála Beartaithe nó ina Deimhniú Luachála Beartaithe, taobh istigh de 40 lá ón dáta a n-eiseofar an Deimhniú Luachála Beartaithe, uiríll a dhéanamh chuig an mbainisteoir i ndáil leis an gceist sin. Ba cheart d’aon íocóir rátaí nó d’aon áititheoir maoine inrátaithe sna limistéir údaráis luaite nach bhfuil aon Deimhniú Luachála Beartaithe faighte aige scéala a chur chuig an Oiﬁg Luachála ar ríomhphost ag reval2017@valoff.ie nó glaoch ar Íosghlao 1890 531 431. nó ar 01 8171033 idir 9.30am agus 5.30pm Luan go hAoine. John O’Sullivan, An Coimisinéir Luachála

Stewart L Hofgartner cuts the ribbon to officially open Yesteryear, Circular Road, Roscommon on Saturday last. Also pictured were Pat Reid and Jerry Doran. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Revaluation of commercial and industrial properties locally ‘nears completion’ The Valuation Office, the State property valuation agency, commenced the process of posting over 6,300 Proposed Valuation Certificates to commercial and industrial ratepayers in the Longford, Roscommon and Westmeath rating authority areas last Thursday, 12th of January. This is an important milestone in the revaluation of all non-domestic property in Ireland which is currently underway through a programme known as the National Revaluation Programme. The first Revaluation of non-domestic, i.e. commercial and industrial properties has already been completed in the local authority areas of South Dublin County Council, Fingal County Council, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Dublin City Council, Waterford City and County Council and Limerick City and County Council. The national revaluation programme is also well underway in Kildare, Leitrim, Offaly, Sligo, Carlow and Kilkenny for which areas the proposed valuations will be published over the coming months. Additionally, the 2nd revaluation of South Dublin Co. Co. is currently underway. Provision for a revaluation of all non-domestic property in Ireland was made under the Valuation Act of 2001 as amended by the Valuation (Amendment) Act 2015. Neither residential property nor agricultural lands are rateable and consequently will not be affected by the revaluation. The proposed valuation

of each property has been arrived at by reference to relevant market rental information at the specified valuation date of 30th October, 2015, collected and analysed by the Valuation Office. Following revaluation, there is a much closer and more uniform relationship between rental values of property and their commercial rates liability. A revaluation is necessary to bring more equity and transparency into the local authority rating system and to ensure that all ratepayers pay a fair share of the commercial rates to be raised. The revaluation will result in a redistribution of the commercial rates liability between ratepayers depending on the relative shift in the rental values of their properties in relation to each other. While an individual occupier’s rates liability may increase or decrease, the revaluation will not increase the overall commercial rates income of the local authority. The commercial rates income of each local authority is capped in the year following a revaluation. The Proposed Valuation Certificates posted on

Thursday, and in the coming months, will state the valuation that the Valuation Office proposes entering for each property when new valuation lists are published on 15th September 2017. The valuations will be used to calculate the rates charged in 2018 and subsequent years. If a ratepayer accepts that the valuation set out in the Proposed Valuation Certificate is correct, they do not need to respond to the Valuation Office. If a ratepayer is dissatisfied with his or her proposed valuation or any of the details contained in the Proposed Valuation Certificate he or she should make ‘representations’ to the Valuation Office within 40 days of the date of issue of the said Certificate. If making representations, an occupier must provide clear reasons and supporting evidence to justify any proposed changes, including an alternative valuation. Ratepayers will also have the right to appeal their valuation subsequently to the Valuation Tribunal, an independent body set up for that purpose. When these representations have been consid-

ered, the Valuation Office will issue Final Valuation Certificates in early September 2017. These final valuations will then be used by the County Councils of Longford, Roscommon and Roscommon to calculate their respective rates charges for the 2018 rates year and subsequent years. The valuation is a key element in establishing the rates liability but is not the amount of rates actually payable. While the Valuation Office determines the valuation, each local authority determines, levies and collects the actual rates payable. FOR MORE DETAILS

The Valuation Office website, www.valoff.ie, sets out detailed information about the revaluation and the representations process. The Office also has a dedicated Customer Support team to deal with revaluation queries by email at reval2017@valoff.ie, or by telephone at LoCall 1890 532 431 or 01 8171033 between 9.30 am and 5.30 pm from Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays. The telephone helpline has been available from 9.30 am on Friday 13th January 2017.

Pictured at the official opening of Yesteryear, Circular Road, Roscommon on Saturday last were Rebecca Sweeney, Stewart L Hofgartner, Peter Boalch, Isabelle Mooney Boalch and Susan Hofgartner. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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Youth Work Ireland shuts as GRETB steps in < DAN DOONER

outh Work Ireland has shut its doors in Co. Roscommon following the Department of Children and Youth Affairs’ decision to pull funding for the service late last year. It is expected, however, that Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board will step in to provide services. The withdrawal of funding and subsequent closure of Youth Work Ireland is said to have affected up to 500 young people who had made use of the service. The service included groups and clubs, health education, after-school support and personal development training. Youth Work Ireland provided services for young people at three locations across the county including Roscommon town, Ballygar and Ballaghaderreen. The decision to withdraw funding came following two department reviews of Youth Work Ireland Roscommon North East Galway. The reviews, according to a statement released by the Department, offered “no reassurances that the youth services being provided by Youth Work Ireland Roscommon North East Galway were to a level

that met the needs of young people in the region.” The decision was made following talks between the department and the Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board in order to ensure access to quality services for young people in the region. On GRETB involvement, Senator Maura Hopkins said: “Currently, the Roscommon Galway Education and Training Board with the Department are conducting a needs analysis of young people’s needs within this area. They are in the process of putting in place a replacement quality service. This service will be provided on an interim basis at first with plans for a permanent targeted service to be put in place later this year across Roscommon and North East Galway.”

On the closure of The Phoenix Youth Centre in Ballaghaderreen, Senator Hopkins said that it was important for the centre to be reopened as soon as possible. Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy and Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice meanwhile have both sought assurances that funding would continue to be provided by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. Deputy Fitzmaurice stated: “This is a matter that I raised with the Department and the Minister before Christmas. It is completely unacceptable that the young people of this region should have to go without services for any length of time and I will be pressing the Minister and the Department to ensure that the services are replaced in all three centres as soon as possible.”

Ofﬁcial opening of Yesteryear

Pictured at the official opening of Yesteryear, Circular Road, Roscommon were Jerry Doran, Pat Reid and Stewart L Hofgartner. Picture: Andrew Fox LEFT: Pictured at the official opening of Yesteryear, Circular Road, Roscommon on Saturday last were Bernie and Niall Daniels. Picture: Andrew Fox

RIGHT: Pictured at the official opening of Yesteryear, Circular Road, Roscommon on Saturday last were Noel O’Callaghan and Louise Maloney. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Pictured at the official opening of Yesteryear, Circular Road, Roscommon on Saturday last were Roisín Kelleher, Stewart L Hofgartner and Monica Shannon. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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Ardscoil Mhuire prides itself on high standards and rewards effort and achievement at every level. Academic excellence combined with stimulating Extra-Curricular Activities and a student-centred Pastoral Care Programme ensure that our students enjoy a fulfilling and fully rounded educational experience to prepare them for the world that awaits them. We invite you to our Open Night and ask you to make a discerning choice about your daughter’s next step in her life long journey in education. Pictured (l-r) are Marie Doorly, Interim General Manager, Roscommon University Hospital; James and Chrissie Gately (parents of the late Alan Gately, RIP); Vincent Pierse, St. Dominic’s GAA Club and Ursula Morgan, Director of Nursing, Roscommon University Hospital.

Supporting Patient Comfort Fund… Mr. Vincent Pierse on behalf of St. Dominic’s GAA Club, Knockcroghery recently presented a cheque of €1,918 to Roscommon University Hospital Patient Comfort Fund. The monies raised were from the Alan Gately Memorial Tournament held last October from the club’s annual Hurling and Camogie blitz. The funds raised were presented to representatives of Roscommon University Hospital for the Patient Comfort Fund and will be used to pur-

chase equipment for patients. Marie Doorly, Interim General Manager, Roscommon University Hospital said: “On behalf of the management and staff at Roscommon University Hospital we are extremely grateful to Mr. Vincent Pierse, members of St. Dominic’s GAA Club, and the parents of the late Alan Gately, RIP, James and Chrissie Gately who nominated Roscommon University Hospital Patient Comfort Fund as their charity to gain from these funds.”

Tel: 090 9642206 / 090 9643307 | Fax: 090 9644668 Email: ardscoilmhuire@eircom.net | website: www.ardscoilhmuire.com

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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From My Kitchen Table Stop making jammies your signature shopping look! MIRIAM KERINS

Kinda feeling sorry for Chris Cooke, the man who complained to Tesco via their Facebook page regarding shoppers wearing pyjamas in one of their UK stores. Mr. Cooke was outraged, and rightly so; however, he received a massive backlash for branding the two female shoppers as ‘utterly disgusting’ for buying their groceries while wearing PJs and dressing gowns. You see readers, while many of you may quarrel with me, and it is your right to do so, I personally agree with Cooke and believe there is a set of standards that everyone should adhere to when going outdoors and that is… have a bit of self-respect, get washed, get dressed, stop being a slob and keep the onesie for inside the house! Now whether or not Cooke was right to photograph the ladies is another debate, but he’d a right to complain. Look, this phenomenon is not just happening in Tesco in the UK, it’s like an epidemic in Ireland too with the dignity and pride of some women appearing to be so poor they obviously feel it’s okay to wear their sweaty nightwear to the shops or when doing the school run, resulting in social bed-lam (couldn’t resist). Yes readers, if ever there was an-

other issue to create a massive chasm, dividing this great nation of ours, it’s ‘pyjamagate.’ The original issue being the great Roy Keane/Saipan debacle… don’t get me started! Okay, as someone who often works from home I’m well acquainted with the desire to stay in my snuggly jammies, steaming mug of coffee in hand and the radio on in the background as I tap away at my keyboard. However, each morning, I somehow manage to drag myself into the shower, (because I like to feel clean and fresh) and get dressed; even if it’s only throwing on a pair of leggings, runners and an oversized jumper; and why? Because quite simply, I have standards and I’m not a slovenly bum! And so, when I see certain women; (not all), but I’m sad to say it’s usually women, and not men, arriving at the supermarket dressed like they’re heading to an all-night pyjama party, I have to admit I feel annoyed and walk out of the establishment and into one where people have some sense of pride and dress appropriately, i.e. in day wear attire and not sweaty, smelly bedroom attire with their bits hanging out all over the place! I mean, it’s got to be unhygienic; hasn’t it? Now don’t

ing, and while it did show off some of Dublin’s amazing sights, from a continuity point of view, there were a few issues scriptwriters might wish to address; like who the hell has their hen night mid-week when they’ve a big court case the next morning and what Irish mammy insists her heartbroken daughter airbrushes over the fact she walked in on her future husband in bed with a colleague? Nah… it’d never happen! In addition, if I was in trouble and Tara was representing me I’d worry ‘cos she seems a tad

Active Retirement group returns Roscommon town Active Retirement recommences weekly meetings next Thursday (January 26th) between 2.30 and 4.30 pm in the education centre at the Sacred Heart Hospital. The group meets weekly and enjoys a wide range of activities including: exercises, quizzes, bowling, guest speakers, day trips and short holidays. Membership is open to men and women who are retired or semi-retired and new members are always welcome.

Veterinary Supplies draw results

go giving me any of this so-called ‘posh pyjama’ nonsense where nightwear has been showcased on the Paris catwalks as being apparently good enough to wear outdoors, because it’s not cool to look like you’ve just escaped from a medical facility or are some sado appearing on the Jeremy Kyle Show! I mean seriously folks; we need to strike a balance here. I’m not suggesting these pyjama lovin’ ladies should groom themselves as if they’re going for a job interview; nay, I’m just asking them to pop on a pair of leggings/jeans and a top before their scantily clad bodies assault mine and other shoppers’ retinas in the

fresh fruit ‘n’ veg aisle. While I do feel that we should all live and let live, and while failing to get yourself dressed is defo not a parenting crime, it doesn’t exactly show your kids a good example now does it? I mean, we cannot expect the poor teacher to pick up the pieces and teach your child self-respect now can we? So for those who like to nip to the supermarket in their tighty nighties, here’s a thing, why not resolve to ditch the ‘couldn’t be a***d’ look this January to putting ‘getting dressed’ on your New Year ‘to do’ list? Just a thought… why not sleep on it?

Why I’m hooked on Striking Out! Tag my toe and call the coroner ‘cos I think I may be dead… well it’s the only plausible reason I can come up with for fangirling all over Amy Huberman’s performance as a somewhat believable solicitor Tara Rafferty in RTE’s new offering, Striking Out. Wasn’t she good! Mind you, that’s probably because I’m a fan of The Good Wife and there are some similarities. However, while RTE’s spin describes the new drama as ‘gritty’, I’d have to disagree. I mean, it’s hardly nail-bit-

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slow on the uptake, given that the sight of her naked intended pinned beneath an equally naked woman resulted in her first response being “Are you having an affair?” Er no love, he was just auditioning for Louis Walsh’s next boyband! Either way I’m hooked, even if it’s only to send subliminal messages to Tara’s insufferable social climbing aul wan Irene Rafferty – played to perfection by the talented Ingrid Craigie, to beat the living daylights out of her cheating future son-in-law Eric Dunbar, played by Rory Keenan.

The Veterinary Supplies Christmas Draw results are as follows – 1st: Patrick Dowd, Newtowncashel, Co. Longford (32” Sony TV); 2nd: Jack Swift, Ballymoe (Hamper); 3rd: Mike Kelly, Whitepark, Derrane (500ml Trodax); 4th: Derek Beirne, Shankill, Elphin (3.5lt Nuromecton PO); 5th: Seamus McDermott, Cloverhill (2.5lt Ivomec PO); 6th: P.J. Coyle, Four Roads (1lt Butox PO); 7th: Zoe Mannion, Ballinastack, Williamstown (2.5lt Tribex 10%); 8th: Padraig Hanley, Fartown, Glenamaddy (Box Alltrace Boluses); 9th: James Mannion, Dysart (500ml Liceban); 10th: Michael Greene, Castleplunkett, Castlerea (1lt Pardevit); 11th: Bernie Kilcline, Carrigeen, Knockcroghery (1lt Super Booster); 12th: Pat Melvin, Lisacul, Castlerea (2.5lt Endospec 2.5%).

Bible readings at Hannon’s Hotel You are invited to go along and listen to messages from the Bible every Sunday from 7-8 pm at Hannon’s Hotel in Roscommon town. These studies are free and non-denominational. Call 0868489244 for more information.

Art classes in Knockcroghery

Linda’s in the Mood for Dancin’ Again! There were two well-known Irish aul wans in the news this week. No… not Ray D’Arcy and Ryan Tubridy! It’s Mrs Brown and Linda Nolan! Our favourite Mammy Agnes Brown is getting her own chat show on the BBC and Linda Nolan is undergoing a facelift, admitting she feels ‘old, worn and drained.’ Ditto love! While there’s absolutely no shame in growing old or even in looking old, I’m sure as Linda advances in years she’s going to hate it when some days her face won’t so much say ‘I’m in the Mood for Dancin’ but rather scream ‘I’m entitled to senior discount.’ You see, I understand Linda’s concerns, even though she’s very pretty and doesn’t require surgery, but if she can afford a facelift and if it makes her feel better, then I say go for it girl! Do it for you! If I won the Lotto, I’d have my face lifted so high, every time I smiled my knees would snap shut! Best of luck to both Mrs Brown and Linda.

Knockcroghery Community Centre will play host to an art class on this evening (January 19th) from 8 to 10 pm. For more information contact 0863365563.

25 Card Drive at Clarke’s Clarke’s Bar in Lanesboro will play host to the Anthony Healy Memorial 25 Card Drive on Friday, January 27th at 7 pm. Prizes on offer include a full, freezer-ready lamb and memorial trophy sponsored by Terry’s Meats and €50 in cash sponsored by Clarke’s Bar. Tickets are €10 and all proceeds go towards Mayo/ Roscommon Hospice.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople ADVERTORIAL

PUBLIC NOTICES

1 cent laser hair removal sale has Therapie Clinic inundated!

Cemetery Improvement and Maintenance Scheme 2017 Roscommon County Council will consider applications from voluntary groups who are prepared to carry out improvements and maintenance works on cemeteries in their locality. The work, which will qualify for grant aid will include: Boundary Improvements; Repairs to path ways and Control of grass and weeds (Purchase of Equipment). All work must be carried out in accordance with guidelines published by the Office of Public Works. Further details and application forms may be obtained from Roscommon County Council Roads and Transportation Department at the address below or email roads@roscommoncoco.ie Forms are also available to download from Roscommon County Council’s website: www.roscommoncoco.ie Closing date for receipt of completed forms: Friday 24th February 2017 Eugene Dwyer S.E. Head of Roads and Transportation Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98 19th January 2017

Have you been thinking about Laser Hair removal? Well think no longer, laser hair removal has never been so affordable; Therapie Clinic are offering an amazing deal this January. Buy one area and get the second one for only 1 cent – Lip €29 Chin 1 Cent, Any Bikini €79 Underarms 1 Cent, Full legs + Any Bikini €149 Underarms 1 Cent, etc. (*prices per session). The truth is there has never been a better time to stop the misery of endless shaving, plucking or waxing. They have their benefits, but their effects all remain temporary. Laser hair removal offers a much more permanent solution and it will actually save you money. It has been estimated that women will spend up to €10,000 over the course of their lifetime getting rid of unwanted hair! Lisa Rohan, Clinic Manager says: “I love working for Therapie Clinic as it is the leader in laser hair removal in not only Ireland but now Europe, having

carried out in excess of 1,000,000 treatments to date and using only the most advanced technology on the market. Therapie Clinic use the world’s most advanced and safest technology treating all skin types. Therapie Clinic offers amazing value making premium laser hair re-

moval much more affordable for all of their clients. “It is simple, to start the whole process off with a free 30 minute consultation with me where we can explain in detail how everything works and how the areas need to be prepared. We will also patch test all areas you are having done

on that day so you know exactly what to expect from your treatments and to let you feel the laser before you commit. A lot of our clients are concerned about the pain of the laser before they have it done so it’s great to be able to feel it for yourself before you start. Therapie Clinic offer

pain-free technology!” Any questions you have will be answered on the day. If you have been thinking about laser for a while there is no better time to get started! So what are you waiting for? Call Therapie Clinic on 1890 650750 and book in your free consultation.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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Lanesborough Primary School LANESBORO, CO. LONGFORD

ENROLMENT AFTERNOON Friday, 27th January at 1.00pm

Pictured are students from Lanesboro Primary School who were involved in the Primary Science Project in conjunction with the BT Young Scientist Exhibition, which was held at the RDS on Saturday, 14th of January. The pupils received an award for their entry, which was entitled ‘How Renewable Energy affects the world’.

We invite you to come along to view the school and to meet with the teachers and Principal. We will be happy to answer any queries you may have. All are welcome. For further information, contact the Principal at 043 3321545 or email smgslb.ias@eircom.net. Check out our website www.lanesboroughprimaryschool.ie

Burgess launches Holy Communion Girls Collection 2017 Burgess Department Store, Athlone has unveiled its beautiful Communion wear collection for 2017 Specialists in Communion wear, the Burgess collection includes ever-popular labels Celebrations, Isabella, Emmerling, Olivia K and KoKo with looks in a range of styles – both simple and ornate – shades and sizes. Follow this advice to choose the perfect communion dress:

Shop early! It is recommended to start shopping for a Communion dress in January – at least 12 weeks before the Communion Day – to make sure you have the best selection of styles and sizes. Be organised so that you avoid any disappointment!

Decide on dress style Have an idea of the style of dress

you and your daughter would each like – and compromise! It is a good idea to have an idea of the style you are looking for before you hit the shops.

Deﬁne your budget Knowing how much you want to spend in advance will make it a lot easier to choose the ideal dress as well as ensuring you can enjoy the whole experience. Remember to include accessories in your budget, such as a veil, tiara, gloves, bag, tights, umbrella and shoes. The Burgess collection of dresses start at €99.

Ensure the perfect ﬁt Once you’ve picked the perfect dress that both you and your daugh-

ter are both happy with, you need to make sure that it fits perfectly so that she is comfortable and can relax in her beautiful new dress and enjoy her big day. Accurate measurements are crucial for the right fit. The trained staff in Burgess allow enough room for growth and advice on any alterations needed.

Choose the right shop Buying your daughter’s communion dress is a special occasion – make sure you’re confident that you’ve chosen the right shop or boutique for you. Buying from Burgess of Athlone will give you comfort knowing that every detail will be looked after by people who are both enthusiastic and experienced.

Shopping should be fun Make a day of it and enjoy this once in a lifetime experience! If your daughter is enjoying the experience allow her to try on lots of different styles and have fun. Burgess, take great care in helping with

outfit selection, ensuring that no two of the same dress will be found in the same class. A complimentary communion dress steaming service is also provided to ensure little girls are pristine for the occasion.

Roscommon People Friday 20 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 24th January 2017 - Prince of Wales Hotel, Athlone Tuesday 7th February 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?

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Pictured at a Civic Reception that was held in honour of the Roscommon Civil Defence recently were Margaret Treacy, Fintan Ferrick, Ray Dunne, CDO, Margaret Regan, John Keane, Chief Fire Officer, Roscommon Fire Service, Margaret Dunne and Maura Donnellan.

Pictured (above) at a Civic Reception that was held in honour of the Roscommon Civil Defence recently were Willie Treacy, Padraig Dunne, Liam Scahill, Cllr. Tony Ward, Chairman of Roscommon County Council, Bosco Smith and Fintan Ferrick. Pictured (left) at a Civic Reception that was held in honour of the Roscommon Civil Defence recently were Andrew Fox and Cllr. Tony Ward, Chairman of Roscommon County Council. Pictured (below) at a Civic Reception that was held in honour of the Roscommon Civil Defence recently were Konrad Kuziemka, Ita Kelly, Eugene Cummins, CEO of Roscommon County Council, Paddy Mullen and Joe Finn.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople

Pictured at the Civic Reception held to honour the work of the Roscommon Civil Defence were Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council; Ray Dunne, CDO Roscommon Civil Defence; Cllr Tony Ward, Chairman of Roscommon County Council and members of Roscommon Civil Defence. Picture: Andrew Fox

Civil Defence receives Civic Reception < DAN DOONER

The work of Roscommon Civil Defence was honoured at a Civic Reception held at Roscommon County Council in December. Recently, Civil Defence Officer, Ray Dunne, told the Roscommon People how proud he was of the work carried out by Roscommon Civil Defence. Describing the role of the Civil Defence, he said: “Our main role is as a back-up to the emergency services. We also support the HSE and the Gardaí when they call upon us.” This vital service has certainly been called upon in recent years due to the devastating effects of inclement weather. In 2015

for example, Roscommon Civil Defence carried out crucial work in flood-hit areas of Roscommon. Members assisted those trapped by floodwater by providing transport and moving belongings to dry ground. During the heavy snow of 2010, the Civil Defence was also on hand to offer transport to nurses and medical staff as well as those seeking medical assistance. Ray also highlighted the search and rescue work undertaken by Civil Defence volunteers. He said: “We have three boats, coxwains and trained water rescue people who assist in search and rescue and recovery.” One of the highlights of

last year for members was the role they played in assisting wheelchair user, John Tobin, in his ascent of Croagh Patrick although Ray Dunne and other members remain modest when it comes to this feat. “All I did was support the idea, we were delighted to help but it wouldn’t have happened without the great work of Basil Finan and the volunteers who assisted on the day,” Ray said as a beaming smile provided evidence of the pride he takes in his work and that of his volunteers. As for the Civic Reception, Ray said it provided a lift for everyone in Roscommon Civil Defence. He said: “It was a huge honour and a bit of a shot

out of the blue! It gives us all a boost and it absolutely lifts morale. The work of the 100 or so volunteers goes above and beyond. In genuine emergencies we have people who will down tools and attend,” said Ray, before paying tribute to the work of the Civil Defence community at large. “I want to give huge thanks to the local authorities, Roscommon County Council and the Civil Defence in Roscrea for support financially and with equipment. Also, without the hard work of the volunteers we wouldn’t be able to do anything so a big thanks to them for their hard work down through the years,” he concluded.

Pictured at the Civic Reception held to honour the work of the Roscommon Civil Defence were Cllr Laurence Fallon; John Joe Nally; Ray Dunne, CDO Roscommon Civil Defence; Margaret Treacy; Willie Treacy and Andrew Fox.

Roscommon Civil Defence has provided vital support to the region’s emergency services since its inception. Pic: Andrew Fox

Eugene Cummins, Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council and Cllr Tony Ward, Chairman of Roscommon County Council pictured making a presentation to Ray Dunne, Civil Defence Officer, Roscommon Civil Defence at the Civic Reception held to honour the work of the Roscommon Civil Defence. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at a Civic Reception that was held in honour of the Roscommon Civil Defence recently were Agnes Dunne and David Fallon

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople

Varadkar on Roscommon economy, refugees and Naughten future < DAN DOONER

inister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar visited Roscommon last Friday and said that the county was heading in the right direction when it came to the live register but that the fact that many of those jobs required travel outside the county was still an issue. Speaking at government buildings in Roscommon town, the Minister said: “The number of people on the live register in Roscommon as a whole is down 40%. Things are really going in the right direction in terms of people taking up employment and getting jobs but I do appreciate that very often those jobs are jobs people travel to, whether it’s to Carrick or Sligo or even Galway. That of course is an issue.” He added: “I’ll be an-

nouncing an expansion of the Rural Social Scheme which is rural employment really. It’s for farmers who have small holdings essentially – they’re farming but they’re not making enough money from farming to get by. That will allow them get off-farm income which I think is really important, not just for them individually but also (it) helps to bring money into the area. Secondly, through our Intro Centres we’re doing our best to work with people to place them in employment which is increasingly available.” The Minister admitted that the economic recovery had been slow to reach Roscommon and that geography played a big role in how the upturn had been felt by individuals across the country: “I think everyone’s experience of recovery is different and it’s very much down to your personal

circumstances and that of your family and where you live. Since 2012, unemployment is down by half and in Roscommon it’s down by about 38 or 40% so it is true that the recovery isn’t happening in Roscommon or this part of the country as it is in Dublin or Galway but it is happening. There are more people at work and incomes are rising again but I think people will only feel it again really when they see their neighbours and kids getting employment and when they feel an improvement in their own circumstances and in their own pockets.” The Minister also urged caution in order to maintain Ireland’s economic recovery. He said: “We also need to be very careful as a country not to repeat the mistakes of the past. A lot of decisions that were made during the boom were very foolish. I’d

Minister for Social Protection, Leo Varadkar, pictured at Castlerea Credit Union with Senator Frank Feighan, Elaine Mooney and their daughter Francesca and Elaine’s mother Norrie.

Minister for Social Protection, Leo Varadkar, pictured with Senator Maura Hopkins and Senator Frank Feighan at government buildings in Roscommon town last Friday.

rather see a slower recovery that’s going to last than another boom and bust.” Addressing the services provided in Roscommon under his remit, Minister Varadkar said: “We’ve a number of offices based here. The GRO, which is the general register of births and deaths, is under my Department so I wanted to meet them in their own office because there are a lot of interesting things happening there. Also we have employ-

ment services, ordinary social welfare offices and client identity services, which is a really important part of our control and fraud operation to identify doppelgangers and double people and there are lots of them around the place! We’ve some really important services here which are going to stay here.” The Minister also spoke about the role which his Department would play in assisting the refugees who are due to arrive in Balla-

ghaderreen in the coming weeks. He said: “Generally what we’ll do in Ballaghaderreen – which is exactly what we’d do in Mosney or Monasterevin or anywhere else – is we’ll go in quite early and make sure the refugees coming in get their public service card and are photographed – all those things that have to be done. Generally they’ll arrive with nothing, coming from the Mediterranean without the right clothes or

the kind of clothing you’d need to be in Ireland and we’ll make some Modest Exception Needs payments to them, really right away so that can buy basic clothes and things like that. We’d anticipate being able to do it with existing resources.” The Minister’s visit to County Roscommon also took in Kilbride where he visited Cuan Mhuire respite centre and Castlerea where he met with local business people.

500 new Rural Social Scheme places conﬁrmed < DAN DOONER

Minister for Social Protection Leo Varakar made what was described by Senator Maura Hopkins as a “very positive and constructive” visit to County Roscommon last Friday. Minister Varadkar met with members of the Rural Social Scheme in Kilbride and said that an additional 500 Rural Social Scheme places would be created this year. He told those present that his visit “emphasised strongly the good work that is being done by staff currently working on this scheme and it makes sense to increase the number of participants.” The Minister also visited the Western Alzheimer’s run Cuan Mhuire respite centre and the

childcare centre which caters for over 90 children from Kilbride and surrounding areas. Minister Varadkar then made his way to Castlerea where he visited a number of local businesses. Cllr. Michael Creaton said: “It is very important for our Ministers to visit rural towns in order to understand fully the good work that is being done by our rural communities. We discussed the positive impact of the Castlerea Town Team and plans to further develop the town. As we visited business people in the town, Minister Varadkar discussed with them the challenges of running a business in a rural town, the difficulties competing with large retailers and the necessity of sustainable rural businesses to maintaining rural communities.”

Concluding his visit to Roscommon, Minister Varadkar attended a Fine Gael Constituency meeting in Gleeson’s Townhouse on Friday evening. Speaking after the meeting, Cllr. Liam Callaghan stated that he was “delighted Minister Varadkar was able to attend as it provided a good opportunity for members to discuss the needs of the people of the Roscommon/Galway constituency.” Senator Maura Hopkins added: “I believe it is very important for members to have access to Ministers on a regular basis to ensure they are very aware of the thoughts and opinions of the membership and that members have an opportunity to have an input into policy and decisions.”

Minister Leo Varadkar pictured at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon with Geraldine Grealy and Tom Grealy.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople

VARADKAR ON ... Varadkar on Roscommon “It’s a pleasure to be visiting Roscommon today. It’s not my first time to visit as a Minister but my first time as Minister for Social Protection and we have a number of offices based here.”

Varadkar on welfare fraud “We are going to have a campaign in the spring telling people how they can report fraud. It’s the right to do, to report fraud, you’re not snitching on somebody, and you’re actually making sure that the resources that my Department has are available to those who need them most.”

Varadkar on Naughten future “I’ve always been friendly with Denis, I regretted the fact that he did leave (Fine Gael) when he did but I understand why he left. We have two really fabulous Senators and two really good public reps in Maura Hopkins and Frankie Feighan and I don’t really think there’s a space at the moment for Denis. As I understand it he attends to stay as an Independent and has stated that he’s going to contest the next election as an Independent.”

Varadkar on Roscommon seat “What we intend to do is to regain our seat here. It was a real disappointment that we lost our seat here and it’s one that we’re going to really have up there pretty much at the top of our target list along with Tipperary and Longford. It’s not a good thing for a county not to have a Fine Gael TD. It’s bad for us as a party and it’s not necessarily a good thing for the county either not to have a representative in the Dáil from the biggest party in the state.”

Pictured at the Ballaghaderreen Chamber pre-launch information night at The Fiddlers Elbow were committee members and sponsors including Bank of Ireland, Fiddler’s Elbow, The Print Depot, Towey’s Spar/Topaz, and Duffy’s SuperValu.

Ballaghaderreen Chamber of Commerce launch next Friday

he Ballaghaderreen Chamber of Commerce has stated that it wants to extend a “warm hand of friendship and welcome” to the refugees who are due to arrive in the town within the next few weeks. In a statement earlier this week, the Chamber stated that it had made enquiries as to the future of the Abbeyfield Hotel as far back as last year and described the use of the hotel as an EROC as “disappointing from a social and economic and tourism point of view” but added “we need to stay positive and keep looking up”. The Chamber also welcomed confirmation it had received from Jacqueline Mullen, manager of The Abbeyfield Hotel, that she was currently seeking to employ as many local people as possible and to source local suppliers. The Ballaghaderreen Chamber of Commerce launch will take place on Friday, January 27th in The Fiddlers Elbow in Ballaghaderreen at 8 pm sharp. There will be a food and wine reception on the night with a musical recital from harpist and musician, Kieran Cummins.

Varadkar on county mental health report “I never cease to be frustrated at how long it seems to take any report involving health services to be published. I was Minister there for 18 months and I still don’t understand why it takes so long for some of these reviews to be done and then why they can’t be published. It always seems to run into legal disputes and I found it enormously frustrating that I couldn’t change that, quite frankly.”

Pictured at the Ballaghaderreen Chamber pre-launch information night at The Fiddlers Elbow were Aine McDermott and Pat Towey.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

WinterHeating&Insulation

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SOLID FUEL STOVES REMAIN POPULAR!

he popularity of solid fuel stoves has endured over the last few years. And there is no better outlet locally to invest in one than at Roscommon Fireplace Centre, Lanesboro Road, Roscommon. Their rise in popularity is down to a number of factors, including the hike in gas and electricity prices. Stoves have also proven to be a wonderful addition to many homes. There are numerous positives aspects to them. They are relatively inexpensive and offer great value for money. They also work very well either as a room heater or to run an entire heating system. These stoves have a very positive effect on the rating on all homes because they remove the open flue of a conventional open fire (which can be an energy drain on any home). There is a huge range of stoves available now to suit all needs. They are environmentally friendly, very attractive and are a wonderful focal point in any room. And so, there are numerous reasons to contact Roscommon Fireplace Centre (call 090-6625470) and invest in a stove, which would add warmth, character and style to your home.

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and misted double-glazed units. There is no call-out charge and we are fully insured for your peace of mind. We are the proud overall winners of the Roscommon Leader Partnership Enterprise Awards 2016. You can visit our Showrooms

at Unit 5, Roscommon Business Park, Racecourse Road, Roscommon. For any queries or further information contact 090-6633026/086-8210710, email roscommonwindows@ hotmail.com or visit our website: www.roscommonwindows.ie

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

WinterHeating&Insulation

Safety tips for your open ﬁre… I

n many ways,

people’s homes have changed immeasurably in recent years, as a variety of digital appliances have come on stream – but one old-fashioned feature has remained as popular as ever: an ‘open fire’. For those of you who enjoy the natural glow of a nightly fire to stay warm on colder nights, an open fire can serve as an ideal form of heating a small area. There are some important things to bear in mind when tending and maintaining an open fire in your home, however, to ensure both the safety, suitability and sustainability of the materials used, and the heating effectiveness. Consider safety before all else. Although the fire is confined to a fireplace, it still can present a fire hazard to your home.

Some key safety considerations: Before use each year, check that the chimney is cleared of debris and that birds or other animals haven’t taken up residence in the top. An annual chimneysweep costs about €50, but

is an essential investment. Keep furniture and furnishings a safe distance from the fireplace and ensure that any close furniture is able to withstand direct heat. Do not leave plastic furniture of any kind near a fireplace.

Keep a space around the fireplace that uses fireproof or fire resistant materials. Tiles, slate, concrete, etc., are appropriate materials to make a space around the fireplace for sparks to fall upon and self-extinguish. Do not have rugs,

carpet, or flowing fabrics anywhere near this space around the fireplace – the risk of embers sparking a fire is too great. While natural fibres cope better with heat, all fibres risk catching on fire and should be kept well away; scorch marks can result on woolen sweaters for those who sit too close – and if that happens, you are too close! Cotton and synthetics have no fire resistance, so take care wearing or hanging these anywhere near live flames. Use a fire screen around the fireplace to prevent embers from sparking when you are too busy to tend to the fire, such as when leaving the room for any reason, or when caught up in conversation. Fire screens are very important when young children are around and youngsters should be taught early on about correct fire safety.

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Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

WinterHeating&Insulation

Ten top tips to save on your heating bills 1. Adjust your thermostat By turning your thermostats down by just one degree, you can save up to 3% off your energy bill.

2. Use your central heating wisely Make sure your heating is switched off when you are out of the house. Also, most of us forget to turn

the radiators off in rooms we don’t use. This can impact your energy bill.

the radiators, making sure they are as efficient (and warm) as possible.

holding a lit incense stick around the window to find out where the cold air is coming in).

3. Keep the radiators efﬁcient

4. Insulate your windows

We all know that ‘bleeding’ the radiators helps them run more efficiently by getting rid of the locked air. But who has the time to check? A ‘Deaerator’ gadget automatically keeps the air out of

Plenty of heat is lost through the windows of your home so remember to draw the curtains at night. Also, insulate the draughts around windows and doors (top tip: you can find the draughts easily by

5. Install a chimney balloon A chimney balloon will keep the draughts out and the heat in your room. All you have to do is inflate it up the chimney and it keeps the heat in nicely (please note this is not suitable for gas fires).

6. Reﬂect the heat back from your radiators A radiator reflector works by sending the heat from the back of your radiator into the room, rather than against the wall, meaning you get the maximum impact from your heating system.

7. Good oldfashioned draught excluders Sometimes the old-fashioned stuff is the best. A draught excluder fits

snugly around the door and it can be cut to shape.

and keep windows from rattling.

8. Plastic coat your windows

9. Keep heating vents clear

If you can’t afford double (or triple glazing) put plastic film on those windows. This will curb draughts

Vents blocked by rugs and furniture prevent heated air from circulating efficiently.

10. Use heaters wisely In just one hour, a good heater should have done enough to heat the room – turn it off when it has the job done.

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Triple glazing is perfect for saving on heating bills during long, cold winters. Sean and his fully insured fitters can also remove those old windows and doors and have your home sparkling this year. Contact Sean Doyle & Sons on 090 6626753, email info@seandoylewindows.ie or log onto www.seandoylewindows.ie.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

WinterHeating&Insulation

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I’ve warmed to an open ﬁre! < DAN DOONER

Consumers will have been delighted to notice that the cost of kerosene has decreased, thieves continue to target home heating oil and often find it quite easy to commit this crime. There are measures you can take to lessen the chances of you being the victim of such a theft.

s has been docu-

mented recently, I’m relatively new to the whole idea of turf and starting my own fire! Before arriving in Roscommon I had lived in Dublin where imitation fires were the done thing and had worked in South Korea where under floor heating was hugely popular in the country’s modern apartments. Therefore an open fire was unusual, let alone bogs and turf! However, I have to say I’ve ‘warmed’ to the whole thing – well apart from working on the bog that is! There really isn’t anything quite like coming home to a roaring fire and putting the feet up, especially when you time your arrival home in order to avoid the work of cleaning out and lighting the fire! In Dublin and Korea, gas heating meant that a simple flick of a switch provided warmth for the evening and while it was efficient and conven-

ient, the apartments and houses never quite felt like home. The fireplace, of course, has long been an integral part of the Irish home and even

went international with Franklin D. Roosevelt’s ‘fireside chats’. Since moving to an open fire and even occasional summer visits to the

bog, I’ve found winters that much warmer and rewarding. It’s no longer a dull, cold season and there’s even a part of me that enjoys the process

of the nights drawing in and temperatures dropping. Having said that, I’ve still not cleaning out the bloody thing this evening!

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice submitted 15 questions on plans to base Syrian refugees in Ballaghaderreen to Minister of State David Stanton who has responsibility for Equality, Immigration and Integration ...

POLITICAL REACTION Feighan wants all necessary supports in place

Fitzmaurice hits Department for 15 The 15 questions that Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice submitted to Minister Stanton and Department officials on Sunday, 8th of January When was the contract signed with the suppliers of accommodation? In mid-December 2016. This followed a call for expressions of interest which was published in the national media in October 2015.

1 2 3

Is the contract for two years? Yes.

Are the people employed to cook and wash and clean clothes being awarded by the Department separately or is it an inclusive contract with accommodation? It is an inclusive contract. If it is inclusive contract to the effect that food and all the other services mentioned above are supplied with accommodation is there any clause in it that all services have to be supplied by businesses in the town of Ballaghaderreen or that all staff have to be sourced from the town and surrounding areas? No. The supply of services to the hotel is a matter for the contractor to either deliver directly or to out-source to another business or person.

Was this venue brought up at a cabinet meeting and if so when and were all cabinet members aware of decision? No. The opening of an EROC is entirely an operational matter for the Department of Justice and Equality.

Was HSE services in area informed and if so when and is there a plan in place that can be looked at? All the main state agencies (Education, Social Protection, HSE, etc.) were informed at national level. Each body then takes the matter up at local level. The response of each service provider will depend on the make-up and needs of the cohort which arrives in Ireland and not just the numbers that arrive in Ireland. Discussions are ongoing with the various service providers. Solutions will be found to any problems that may arise. Both the Department and the relevant service providers are well used to dealing with and resolving any service issues that arise locally in this context. The establishment of an institution such as an EROC is not a new phenomenon. All of the key service providers such as the HSE, Department of Education and the Department of Social Protection are represented on the overarching Government Taskforce which

has been established to coordinate services and the IRPP. The IRPP also holds regular weekly meetings with all its clients in EROCs and any issues, including service issues, that arise are speedily brought to our attention. Moreover, the management in all of the EROCs are very hands-on and when they become aware of any service issues they act on them and also inform the IRPP. The IRPP is proactively involved in the welfare of the client group and liaises on an ongoing basis with all service providers. Are the children going to local schools or learning with adults in-house or are crèches being used? This is a matter that the Department of Education and Skills will address with IRPP over the coming weeks once they have the opportunity to assess the needs of the children that arrive. The answer will depend on a range of factors that includes an assessment of education needs and local capacity. There is a range of possible solutions depending on need, length of stay in the EROC and local capacity. The IRPP team will work closely with the relevant bodies to ensure that the outcome is not one which is detrimental to local schools or the community.

When was Roscommon County Council first told or spoken to about this plan? A letter was issued to the Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council on 5th January, 2017.

Is there new bus services laid on or what transport arrangements are put in place? The reasonable transport needs of those in the EROC are covered by the contract. Should additional and relevant transport needs arise then other transport arrangements can be approved by the Department of Justice and Equality. The contract is sufficiently flexible to cater for a range of events and needs.

Will all teachers and SNAs be hired locally? While the IRPP staff work closely with the Department and local schools, this is the type of operational issues that can only be directly addressed by the statutory service provider and employer.

Is there regional funding coming to Ballaghaderreen to help employment and ensure work can be got for these families in time? The families in question are being accommodated in the EROC inBallaghaderreen for

approximately six months for an initial period of recuperation, recovery and orientation. After that they will be provided with permanent housing elsewhere across the country. The EROC is about initial reception and orientation, which is a necessary precursor to resettlement elsewhere in the State. It is not a facility for permanent resettlement in Ballaghaderreen. The persons concerned will not require homes or employment in the locality.

Is there now an allocation of additional money for housing for people of Ballaghaderreen that are on housing list and for unfinished estates? The persons to be accommodated in the EROCs will not be taking up any accommodation that would otherwise be used by those on the housing list. They will be temporarily residing in the hotel, which has been closed for many years and in ‘shell’ apartments, which are part of the hotel complex and which are to be finished as part of the current contract. There will no impact on local housing that arises from this facility.

Is there any extra Gardaí being allocated to the town? While the allocation of Gardaí is the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner it should be said that the opening of an EROC does not give rise to a requirement for the deployment of additional Gardaí. The EROC clientele are usually just delighted to have the opportunity to get on with their lives and a second chance at a new start. IRPP will of course liaise with local Gardaí at the appropriate level prior to the arrival of any persons in the EROC and contact has already been made in this regard.

Is there a team coming to public meeting in Ballaghaderreen to explain to people the exaxt procedure? IRPP policy is to work through established democratic institutions and mechanisms including the local authority, local councillors, members of the Oireachtas, media, etc. This is the best way to disseminate accurate information. IRPP staff will also, over a period of time, meet local service providers and individuals seeking to assist.

Is there any Deparment staff to brief the TDs and senators? Staff of the IRPP are happy to brief local representatives and a brief will be provided at the meeting.

Senator Frank Feighan welcomed measures being put in place to cater for the 82 refugees coming to Ballaghaderreen in March and also stressed that good communication must be at the centre of the relationship between the Department of Justice and the local community. Referring to the recent meeting between Oireachtas members from Roscommon/Galway and Minister David Stanton and Justice Department officials, Senator Feighan said that he had stressed that clear channels of communication must be in place at all times for the local community who are ready to welcome in these people devastated by conflict. “There is no question there is plenty of work still to be done before the 82 refugees arrive in March at the former Abbeyfield Hotel in the town and that is apart from the intense level of engagement required with service-providers on the ground. “At last week’s meeting with Minister Stanton and officials, we heard some proposals regarding schooling and it is imperative that relevant supports are put in place as soon as possible given that 37 children of varying ages are coming. “I previously raised the issue of integration and I am glad to see that there is a community fund available for local groups who have ideas to assist in this regard.”

‘We need a child psychologist’ Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Galway Eugene Murphy has called for the immediate appointment of a child psychologist for North Roscommon particularly in light of the 36 Syrian children who will be seeking refuge in Ballaghaderreen in the coming months. “We currently do not have a child psychologist in covering the North of the county and many of the Syrian children coming to Ballaghaderreen will undoubtedly have suffered untold trauma so it is vital that this post is in place before the refugees arrive in Ballaghaderreen in early March. 36 children will be included in the group of 82 Syrians – that figure includes 13 children under the age of four, 19 children in the five to 12 age category and 4 children over the age of thirteen. “The Minister indicated that a pre-school may be set up in the centre for the young children and that where possible the older children would attend local schools but this depended on the individual child as some of them may have never been in a school setting so in that case it may be necessary to set up a school setting in the actual refugee centre,” said Deputy Murphy. The Fianna Fáil TD said that the need to fast-track a child psychologist for the North of the county was one of the main points he made to Minister David Stanton during the Oireachtas briefing last week.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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Local man new head of Lero, the Irish Sofware Research Centre Professor Brian Fitzgerald has been appointed director of Lero, the Irish Software Research Centre which is headquartered at the University of Limerick (UL). He replaces Professor Mike Hinchey following an eight-year term of office. Roscommon-born Pro-

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fessor Fitzgerald was formerly chief scientist at Lero and has been involved with the Science Foundation Ireland supported national research centre since its inception in 2005, apart from a spell as vice-president research at UL from 2008-2011. Prior to taking up an aca-

demic position, Professor Fitzgerald worked in the software industry for over a decade in a variety of sectors including finance, telecommunications, manufacturing and bespoke software development in Ireland, Belgium and Germany. “Brian brings to the role

valuable industry as well as academic experience,” commented Professor Don Barry, president, UL. “He is a pioneer in research into open source software and is widely recognised as a global leader in the study of software development processes and methods.”

County’s young entrepreneurs in Regional Final Three young entrepreneurs from Roscommon are going head to head with entrepreneurs from Galway and Mayo at the Regional Final of Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) competition, which takes place on Friday, January 27th at the Abbey Hotel in Roscommon. Local Enterprise Office Roscommon will be represented at this year’s Regional Final by: Desmond Dolan of MistCalls, Cortober, Carrick-on-Shannon (Best Business Idea Category); Kyle McLoughlin, of Posude T/A Sub Teacher.ie, Boyle (Best Start-Up Business Category) and (Eoghan Kenny, Project 5 Creations T/A BeltLock.ie, Ballinasloe (Best Es-

tablished Business Category). On January 27th, three finalists will be selected by the judging panel to compete at the IBYE National Final in March, one from each competition category. So far, 180 talented entrepreneurs across every county in Ireland, aged between 18 and 35, have been awarded a total of €1.5 million in investment funding through the Local Enterprise Offices, after winning or becoming runners-up in IBYE County Finals. This initiative for young entrepreneurs is run by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) nationwide, and supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and Enterprise Ireland. The invest-

ment awards will be used by the young entrepreneurs to help fund business start-ups, create new jobs locally or to help develop new products for international markets. As part of the supports on offer through the competition, more than 400 young entrepreneurs around the country benefited from bootcamp training sessions in which they were put through their paces in every aspect of how to start and develop a business. Louise Ward, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Roscommon, wished local category winners the best of luck at the Regional Final, saying: “We see the IBYE initiative as an important springboard for our young entre-

preneurs who want to start or expand a business. “The 180 entrepreneurs across every county in Ireland who share €1.5 million in investment funding, which include our County Winners and Runners-up, can now make their business ideas and expansion plans a reality in 2017. It’s also about nurturing entrepreneurs through bootcamps, training, networking and mentoring, with job creation benefits throughout the region.” More details about the competition and the supports available to young entrepreneurs are available through www.localenterprise.ie and from the IBYE website at www.ibye.ie.

Kyle McLoughlin, Posude T/A Sub Teacher.ie pictured at Roscommon’s County Finals of the Best Young Enterpreneur Competition at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

‘Roscommon’s favourite local broadband provider’

Calling Roscommon entrepreneurs Now in its 20th year, the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year programme officially opened this week for nominations across Connacht. The theme of this year’s programme is ‘Leading through Change’ and all sectors and businesses of all sizes are invited to submit their nominations up until the 22nd of February. The 24 finalists for 2017 will be announced on 27 April. Kevin McLoughlin, Partner said: “I am delighted to launch the 2017 EOY programme, which I am incredibly proud to say is in its 20th year. The benefits of participation extend far

beyond winning the award in October. The successful finalists will gain national and international exposure, gaining media profile across TV, radio, print and online. They will also connect with our exclusive network of over 450 of Ireland’s top entrepreneurs and get an opportunity to go on our renowned international CEO Retreat which is designed to help Irish entrepreneurs transform their thinking and vision through executive education and hearing from some of the world’s leading CEOs.”

Operating in more than 60 countries worldwide, EOY is recognised as the most prestigious business accolade for entrepreneurs. The awards programme is divided into three categories – Emerging, Industry and International – with 8 finalists chosen per category. The 24 finalists will be selected by an independent panel of judges, comprised of former EOY winners. See online nomination form at www. eoy.ie or call the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year team for further information on 01 2212250.

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Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople

Pictured are Michael Byrne and Jack Lohan from CBS Roscommon and their project ‘The effects of the recent floods on farms in South Roscommon’ which was Highly Commended at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2017.

Pictured are Michael Lohan and Michael Staunton, Roscommon Community College, at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2017.

‘Young Scientist’ winner Shane has strong Roscommon links The winner of the 53rd BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) has strong family links with Rooskey, Co. Roscommon. Shane Curran, aged 16, a 5th year student from Terenure College, Dublin 6, won the top prize for his project entitled ‘qCrypt: The quantum-secure, encrypted, data storage solution with multijurisdictional quorum sharding technology’. Shane competed in the senior section of the Technology category. Shane’s mother is Paula Curran (nee Hanley), who was born in Rooskey, Co. Roscommon. She is daughter of Colm and May Hanley, Shane’s grandparents. Colm and May are well-known Rooskey residents for many decades. Colm is a member of the well-known Hanley family who established Hanley’s Bacon Factory (later Glanbia) in the village and May Hanley taught for many years in the local national school. Shane receives €5,000, the BTYSTE perpetual trophy, and a once-in-a-lifetime

trip to the European Space Research and Technology Centre in the Netherlands. In addition, he will have the opportunity to represent Ireland at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists in Tallinn, Estonia later this year. Speaking about the winning entry, BT Young Scientist judge John Dunnion commented: “qCrypt is a novel distributed data storage system that provides greater protection for user data than is currently available. It addresses a number of shortfalls of current data encryption systems; in particular, the algorithm used in the system has been demonstrated to be resistant to attacks by quantum computers in the future. As part of the qCrypt project, an entire software platform with an intuitive user interface has been developed. The application has been written using state-ofthe-art coding techniques.” Over 1,100 students from 375 schools across the island of Ireland competed for the coveted title of ‘BT Young Scientist & Technologist of the Year 2017.’

Pictured with his project at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition 2017 is Adam Kingi, (Clooncraff, Kilteevan) a 1st year student in Lanesboro Community College. He is pictured with Dr. Christy Duffy the Chief Executive of Longford and Westmeath Education and Training Board (LWETB). Adam’s project, ‘Understanding How Weather Affects Fishing’, is an in-depth study of the correlation between weather conditions and fish caught on Lough Ree freshwater lake, Lanesboro. Adam received high commendations from the judges and also from Lough Ree Angling Hub who have selected Adam to feature his project at the Lough Ree International Pike Classic 2017 which will take place in June.

Ruth Murphy, Chief Counsel Business and Public Sector in BT presents the Biological and Ecological Senior Individual 3rd place award to Abbie Moloney, Scoil Mhuire Strokestown, Co. Roscommon for the project ‘An investigation into the quality of effluent discharging domestic waste water treatment systems (septic tanks) and an apparatus to improve this.’

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION Today’s Liturgy gives us a lesson in ancient Israelite geography and history. Matthew in today’s Gospel quotes Isaiah’s prophecy in today’s First Reading. Both intend to recall the apparent fall of the everlasting kingdom promised to David (see 2 Samuel 7:12-13; Psalm 89; Psalm 132:11-12). Eight centuries before Christ, the Assyrians attacked that part of the kingdom where the tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali lived and the tribes were hauled off into captivity (see 2 Kings 15:29; 1 Chronicles 5:26). It marked the beginning of the kingdom’s end. It finally crumbled in the sixth century B.C., when Jerusalem was seized by Babylon and the remaining tribes were driven into exile (see 2 Kings 24:14). Isaiah prophesied that Zebulun and Naphtali, the lands first to be degraded, would be the first to see the light of God’s salvation. Jesus today fulfills that prophecy – announcing the restoration of David’s kingdom at precisely the spot where the kingdom began to fall. His gospel of the Kingdom includes not only the twelve tribes of Israel but all the nations –symbolised by the “Galilee of the Nations.” Calling His first disciples, two fishermen on the Sea of Galilee, He appoints them to be “fishers of men” – gathering people from the ends of the earth. They are to preach the gospel, Paul says in today’s Epistle, to unite all peoples in the same mind and in the same purpose – in a worldwide kingdom of God. By their preaching, Isaiah’s promise has been delivered. A world in darkness has seen the light. The yoke of slavery and sin, borne by humanity since time began, has been smashed. And we are able now, as we sing in today’s Psalm, to dwell in the house of the Lord, to worship Him in the land of the living. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

FRANKLY

SPEAKING

FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

Tell me why…I don’t mind Mondays! I

t’s Monday morning, the 16th of January and after an early visit to noddyland last night, I woke up well rested, in good form and was out of bed just after 7.30 am. Down the stairs for the brekkie and as with most mornings, I turned on the breakfast show on TV3. Now I have recently turned off that station on several occasions, as at that early hour in the morning I like to

hear good, positive news stories but more and more, we are bombarded with tales of outrageous misfortunes and hard luck stories and more often than not, you would be almost moved to tears. Now before you say to yourself that that fellow (me) has no heart, you would be very wrong but I feel that those types of sad stories should be broadcast later in the day and not first

thing in the morning. However, they tell me that today is ‘Blue Monday’, the most miserable day of the year and for a moment, I felt almost guilty about feeling fairly upbeat and happy. However, just before I changed stations I found out that there is really no basis to the ‘blue day’ story at all, certainly not medically or scientifically, as it was a marketing ploy by some travel company to try and sell

‘Striking Out’ has me staying in Last week I mentioned how much I liked Striking Out, starring Amy Huberman, also known as Mrs. Brian O’Driscoll and last night’s helping made me realise that I will miss it quite a bit after next week’s episode, which is to be the last in the series of the show. I would have gone for a quiet pint last night if it wasn’t on, so that gives you an idea how much I like the show. Before you tell me about recording stuff and that type of thing, I have to tell you that I like to see programmes, including live sport, as they happen.

Footballers to celebrate historic year

THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club North/South – 1st: A. Rafferty & V. McManus, 2nd: J. Donnellan & J. Halliday, Gross: L. Shine & L. Curley. East/West – 1st: A. Flynn & M. McSharry, 2nd: M. Hickey & R. Roughneen, Gross: T. Smyth & T. Murphy. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club 1st: T. Smyth & L. Shine, 2nd: L. Curley & P. Cooney, Gross: V. & M. Brennan. St. Coman’s Bridge Club North/South – 1st: O. Fahy & M. Naughton, 2nd: B. Maher & M. Madden, Gross: M. Law & M. Pullinger. East/West – 1st: G. Hoban & M. Fallon, 2nd: K. Dowd & C. Ansboro, Gross: M. Hickey & G. Spillane. Ballymurray Bridge Club Section A North/South – 1st: C. Neilan & M. Regan, 2nd: B. Jordan & M. McDermott, Gross: S. Hickey & G. Finn. East/West – 1st: P. Callaghan & P. Kelly, 2nd: B. Maher & M. Madden, Gross: K. Corcoran & A. Shine. Section B North/South – 1st: M. Dolan & K. Coyle, 2nd: M. Fallon & M. Mullen, Gross: T. McManus & M. McSharry. East/West – 1st: M. Dolan & A. Carney, 2nd: E. Curley & A. Hewitt, Gross: K. Gately & M. Naughton. Kilbride Bridge Club North/South – 1st: J. Hunt & A. Gaffney, 2nd: M. Hussey & L. Hussey, 3rd: T. & B. Moran. East/West – 1st: M. Regan & C. Neilan, 2nd: M. Kelly & A. Igoe, 3rd: S. Macken & A. McCourt.

last minute holidays back in 2005. Then, as I headed off to work in the 2002 Almera, I heard on Joe Finnegan’s Show that today is also the best day in the year to buy a new car, which presumably came from the same marketing source as the other one, so I decided to ignore both bits of news (if that’s what you call them), keep the old Almera and try to stay in good humour until the end of the day.

RTÉ drama series, Striking Out starring Amy Huberman, Rory Keenan, and Neil Morrissey, Striking Out is a four part drama series that follows the tumultuous professional and personal life of Dublin-based solicitor, Tara Rafferty (Huberman), and her fledgling legal firm.

No contract needed to enjoy sport For a while now in the world of the GAA there has been a lot of concern on the subject of burnout amongst the players, particularly younger college ones who may find themselves playing and training with their college teams, their club teams and their county teams and who obviously cannot continue doing so. You don’t need to be a brain surgeon to figure out that the level of commitment required to play for all those teams is almost impossible and yet the coaches and managers of each team will expect total commitment from every player for the particular team that they look after. We all know the level of commitment required nowadays by every team is bordering on the ridiculous and the recent leaking of a document, which players hoping to play senior football with Dublin club, St. Brigid’s have to sign, really shows how crazy the whole thing has

become. The contract has 16 different points, including having to take your holidays after talking to the team coaches and even then only during breaks in the playing season. Among the other rules is a commitment to be at all club matches, whether you are playing or not, you must congratulate the lads chosen to play and encourage them on the playing field, even though you might be hopping mad that you are not picked. While a lot of the 16 rules are reasonable enough, it’s a sad day when amateur players have to sign contracts to play Gaelic football. I remember when we played football, we played for fun and while some might say we had too much fun, I think it’s the way it should be. The very essence of sport is that it should be enjoyable and relaxing and a means of releasing stress and while there has to be a certain amount of responsibility shown by every player and a certain

commitment given to your team, it’s a step too far when you effectively have to sign your life away before you can kick a ball. There has long been a problem in the GAA because in most counties the county team gets preference and while the county team stays in the championship, the club games are, more or less, put on hold and it means that the club player is left twiddling his thumbs during the summer months and might not kick a ball at all during that time. The newly formed CPA will hopefully help to sort out the situation as regards the playing of club games, but to me it would be great to see a bit of fun come back into our national games and while it’s great to win, surely amateur players should be allowed a life outside of football or hurling and if they have a pint or two during the week of a match, they shouldn’t be excommunicated.

On a more positive note, out here in Creggs you will be aware that our local football team had a year to remember in 2016, a year in which we won our first junior championship in 33 years, also won the league (the Tansey Cup) and were unlucky to lose out in the Connacht final to Mayo champions, Louisburgh. Anyway, we are having a big celebration Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel on January 28th where the victorious team members and management will be presented with their medals and we are expecting a great crowd. Music is by the superb White Cakes, dinner is timed for 8 o’clock and the tickets are €40. Special guests on the night are Roscommon team manager Kevin McStay and the very powerful Galway forward, Damien Comer. Tickets can be bought from Sean (Duff) Brandon – 086-1708506, Gerry Keegan – 086-3920951, Ger Dowd – 087-2358023, Kathleen McKeague 086-8469003 or any member of the committee. The success of the team last year has surpassed anything achieved by any other Creggs team in the past and maybe even in the future, so hopefully our supporters will come out in big numbers, have a ball, eat and drink their fill, do their bit on the dancefloor and make it a night that will be talked about forever. Looking forward to seeing you all there!

A week of AGMs! Finally for this week, the Creggs GAA AGM is taking place this Saturday night (21st) at 8 o’clock in St. Mary’s Hall, Kilbegnet so make it a date for your diary. Meanwhile, St. Ciaran’s GAA underage AGM is taking place next Thursday (26th) at the clubhouse starting at 8 pm. week,

‘Till next Bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

Weekend

PEOPLE Social Dance, Monster Rafﬂe in Kilteevan Chance to win Coldplay tickets Kilteevan Community Development Group invite you to dust off those Christmas cobwebs and get dancing! They are hosting a social dance and Monster Raffle on Friday, January 20th at the Kilteevan Community Centre. Over €1,300 worth of prizes will be given away on the night including two tickets to Coldplay’s Croke Park gig in Dublin in July. Purchasing a ticket will guarantee your entry into the dance and the raffle. John Gilmore and Sean Moran from J&S Sound will be on the microphone providing the tunes for you to waltz, jive and boogie to! The proceeds from the dance will go towards the running of the community group and the community centre in 2017. Tickets are €10 and refreshments will be provided on the night. The dance kicks off at 10 pm and will run until 12.30 am.

See pages 35 - 36

An Evening of Music with Eimear Reynolds Since releasing her debut album last summer, Rooskey singer Eimear Reynolds has been busy performing and promoting the album around the country and she is delighted to be coming to the Roscommon Arts Centre on 28th of January. ‘Say the Words’, the title track of the album is an original song written by Eimear herself which joins a range of traditional favourites, haunting hymns and popular, modern tracks to form what has become a very popular and interesting album. “They’re all songs that, over the years, I always went back to singing,” Eimear revealed. “If I connect with a song, I just enjoy it. I wouldn’t sing a song if I couldn’t find some sort of connection with it.” Eimear has performed with many household names before from Chloe Agnew, Frances Black, Philomena Begley, Eleanor Shanley and Des Willoughby, right through to Jedward, and this show will

be no different. Paul Hennessy will join Eimear on the night. Paul is director of the hugely successful Evolution Stage School and has performed extensively throughout Ireland and abroad. His superb tenor voice will no doubt add something special to the evening. Eimear is also a founding member of the popular Roscommon Solstice Choir, which she credits with providing many great memories, friends and contacts, but it’s to her family she reserves the most praise.“Without them I’d be nowhere,” she said. “They’re there 100% to support me.” Eimear will be bringing her show to the Roscommon Arts Centre on 28th of January. Tickets are now on sale from the Box Office at 0906-6625824 or online at www.roscommonartscentre.ie.

Photography Award winner to exhibit in Arts Centre Cork-based artist/photographer Dara McGrath was selected by world renowned photographer Martin Parr as the winner of Roscommon Arts Centre’s Contemporary Photography award. The aim of which is to provide a photographer with the opportunity to produce a body of work for exhibition at Roscommon Arts Centre and Belfast Exposed Futures Gallery along with a potential tour to two other venues, funding pending, in 2017. The artist will also be provided with 30 hours free access to the Gallery of Photography Artist’s Digital Studio for pre/production to the value of €750. An online gallery of the winning works will appear on irishtimes.com The body of work McGrath will show is

FACES AND PLACES

entitled ‘Project Cleansweep’. It is a project that surveys the landscape of chemical and biological weapons in the British Isles and its continuing legacy and impact of the landscape and environment. The exhibition will open at Roscommon Arts Centre on April 14th. Contact linda@lindashevlin.com for more details.

Dara McGrath’s ‘Kimbolton’, Cambridgeshire, 2012. This photograph is part of a collection called ‘Project Cleansweep’ which depicts the landscape of chemical and biological weapons in the British Isles and its contininuing legacy and impact on the landscape and environment.

Eimear Reynolds (right), who will be performing in Roscommon Arts Centre on 28th of January

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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

Hamrock’s Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday night, 21st January:

Laurence Campion Telephone: 090 6626225

Elphin Street, Strokestown

Friday 20th January:

The leading party venue for young and old in Strokestown and surrounding areas. The Sportsmans provides FREE music for all parties booked in 2017 with some great Bands and DJs available. Please book early to avail of the best Bands/DJs for your party Telephone: 086 6096387 or 086 6021092

Castlecoote Lodge BAR AND LOUNGE Castlecoote, Roscommon

“IRISH TRAD NIGHT”

Pictured at the official opening of Yesteryear, Circular Road, Roscommon on Saturday last were Eugene and Catherine McKeever. Picture: Andrew Fox

Macra King and Queen to be revealed It’s that time of year again! Roscommon Macra na Feirme will travel to the Sligo Park Hotel this Saturday (January 21st) for the North West Macra na Feirme Kings and Queens event and Royal Banquet. This year the event is celebrating its 10th Anniversary so this night promises to be bigger and better than ever! The evening starts at 7.30 pm with the introduction of the Kings and Queens. After the Banquet, there will be some short fun interviews on stage with the King and Queen Teams (A King from one county will be paired with a Queen from another county). The winning Northwest King and Queen 2017 will

be crowned and they will receive a monetary prize, impressive crowns, perpetual trophy and prestigious title of Northwest King and Queen 2017. Following the announcement, there will be music, dancing and celebrations until late. This is a very popular event on the Macra calendar with tickets sold out weeks in advance. This year the Roscommon representatives are Melissa Glynn from South Roscommon Macra and Daniel McDermott from Castlerea Macra. Many members will travel to Sligo to support their fellow members. We wish them the very best of luck on the night.

The Square House Social Saturday 21st January:

Mark Black

Sunday 22nd January:

Patricia Lane with Anthony McDermott - 7pm in Middle Bar

This Friday night 20th January at 10 P.M. Musicians, singers, dancers, storytellers, customers and friends all welcome.

Te l e p h o n e : 0 8 7 6 3 3 5 5 1 1

Social Dance & Raffle

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

Friday, 20th January in Kilteevan Community Centre from 10pm - 12.30am

Win two tickets to Coldplay Vodafone Smart Phone with €100 Cash/Voucher from Music by

J&S Sound

● Mike Hughes Plumbing ● Top Oil Edward Donnellan ● Rachel Feeley Designs ● St. Joseph’s GAA ● Future Flowers ● Garvey’s Hardware ● Roscommon Driving School ●

Tickets €10 Refreshments served on the night All proceeds go to Community Development

Melissa Glynn.

Daniel McDermott.

Trad returns to Castlecoote Lodge for New Year Businesses: Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

The first trad session of 2017 will take place at Castlecoote Lodge tomorrow evening (January 20th) commencing at 10 pm. Followers of traditional music song and dance are always sure of a great night’s entertainment at these sessions at the Lodge which first began in 2013.

The Leyden family is very appreciative of the contribution of so many talented musicians and entertainers who take part in the monthly sessions. The Leydens are also active members of the Castlecoote/Fuerty Fleadh Committee, which together with Athleague Branch Com-

haltas Ceoltoiri Eireann are busily preparing for Fleadh Cheoil Roscomain which takes place in Castlecoote Fuerty over Easter Sunday and Monday, April 16th and 17th. Castlecoote Fuerty promises to be the place to be for all things traditional during Easter 2017.

BEER OF THE WEEK! JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Sunday evening last were Sandra Cunningham and Rachel Hevican.

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Sunday evening last were Michelle Mulryan and Marie Hennigan.

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Sunday evening last were Michelle Mulligan and Aisling Carley.

Wedding & Faces Fair at the Places Abbey Hotel Pics: Andrew Fox

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Sunday evening last were Natalie Browne and Roseanne Kelly.

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Sunday evening last were Marian McDermott and Lucy Carty.

Pictured in the Abbey Hotel on Sunday evening last were Mary Buckley and Rachel Hevican.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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

Pictured in Hannon’s Hotel on Friday night last were Pat Devaney, Ita Kelly and Joe Fox. Pictured in Hannon’s Hotel on Friday night last were Deirdre Duggan, Vera Cusack and Orla Keegan.

Faces & Places An evening with the Solstice Choir Pics: Andrew Fox Pictured in Hannon’s Hotel on Friday night last were Mary Egan, Siobhan Menton and Margaret Treacy. Pictured (above) in Hannon’s Hotel on Friday night last were Eithne Fox and Carmel Coll.

Pictured (left) in Hannon’s Hotel on Friday night last were Rhona Trench and Edel Rowley.

Pictured (below) in Hannon’s Hotel on Friday night last were Ann and Tommy Ryan.

Pictured in Hannon’s Hotel on Friday night last were Bernadette Kelly, Ann McCormack and Kathy Cassidy.

Pictured in Hannon’s Hotel on Friday night last were Mary Regan, Peter and Margaret Brandon.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

PropertyPeople

Prime Kilroosky lands available at Earley’s John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering to the market a prime holding of premium quality roadside lands together with forestry lands containing c. 36.4 acres in total located at Cartron and Kilroosky, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. All offers over €180,000 are invited with a view to selling. John describes the lands as “a highly attractive holding of excellent quality roadside lands located with excellent road frontage located in a select agricultural district.” The lands have been maintained to a superior standard and must offer local farmers an excellent opportunity to increase their existing holdings. The property can be sold in one or more lots as set out below should

market interest dictate due its setting and layout: Lot 1: The entire; Lot 2: c. 27.9 acres of lands; Lot 3: c. 8.5 acres of forestry lands planted in c. 2013. (c. 7.22 acres of Sitka Spruce; c. 0.84 acres of Hybrid Larch; c. 0.34 acres of Additional Broadleaves). The forestry lands have an annual premium of €1,456.07 for c. 20 years. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley, FIPAV, Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie. Find us on facebook at www.facebook. com/propertypartners.earley.

4-bay hay shed with two 4-bay lean-tos off, a cattle crush and pen and with a yard servicing. The house and lands can be sold independently should market interest dictate and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell.

For further details or to arrange a viewing, contact John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www. propertypartners.ie.

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

NEW TO THE MARKET A QUALITY 4 B/R BUNGALOW RESIDENCE OF C. 1,800 SQ.FT LOCATED ADJACENT TO

CASTLECOOTE VILLAGE, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON Price Guide: €100,000 ono to sell. Open viewings Saturday 21st January 2017 from 10 – 11 am.

Prime Fourmilehouse residence Landmark 7-day licensed premises to let in and lands available at Earley’s Knockcroghery John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering new to the market an extremely attractive holding of excellent quality agricultural lands containing c. 21.3 acres on which stands a character three-bedroomed bungalow residence located at Grange, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as “a highly attractive holding of quality dualpurpose agricultural lands located in the renowned Fourmilehouse farming district.” Standing on the lands is a character threebedroomed bungalow residence together with a farmyard comprising of a

PSA Licence number: 001481 PSRA Licence No. 001481

David Diffley, MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley is this week offering to the market a landmark 7day licensed premises of c. 2,950 sq. ft. to let in the heart of Knockcroghery village. ‘The Widow Pat’s’ is described as a primely located public house set in the midst of all village trade and commanding an excellent high profile position on the main N61 Roscommon/Athlone route. The property offers a traditional bar and function room/lounge accommodation together with kitchen, storage facilities and large service yardway set to the side and rear. David says: “The said property offers excellent potential to develop a drinks and food trade in a busy village. Lease and rent terms are negotiable and we now invite all offers for immediate let.” For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact David Diffley, MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579, email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie/earley.

• A quality 4 B/R detached bungalow residence of c. 1,800 sq.ft. • Standing on an a prime elevated site area of c. 0.55 of an acre. • Overlooking the renowned Blacks Lake. • Located in a select countryside location close to the award winning village of Castlecoote. • Builders finish throughout. BER: C3. LEGAL: MARIE MCMANUS, MESSERS PATRICK J NEILAN & CO, ROSCOMMON. 090 66 26245. ---------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET A PRIME LEASEHOLD INTEREST IN AN ESTABLISHED AND RENOWNED JEWELLERY BUSINESS IN

ROSCOMMON TOWN CENTRE All offers invited to sell.

Property Partners Earley offer for sale the leasehold interest in this well renowned and regarded local business. Established in 1983, Mary Raftery Ltd Jewellers has traded successfully and amassed an extensive base of customers due to its location, reputation and esteemed service, offering any potential purchaser a vehicle to quickly establish themselves within the market and a solid foundation from which one could expand. BER: C3. ---------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE AT FOURMILEHOUSE

REA Seamus Carthy advise strong demand from US buyers REA Seamus Carthy advises that they undertook some market research into recent trends for those searching for property in Ireland. It emerged that with one UK website alone (rightmove.co.uk) searches for property in Ireland had increased by 26% since 2015. In total there were over four million searches for property in Ireland throughout 2016. These are staggering figures and Aishleen from REA Seamus Carthy states that this indicates the strong

level of demand for property in Ireland from overseas. The majority of buyers are searching for houses as opposed to apartments and are cash buyers. The origin of these buyers is as follows – 1: United Kingdom; 2: USA; 3: Ireland; 4: Spain and 5: France. REA Seamus Carthy have a strong contact base of buyers from the UK and in recent years have held property exhibitions in a number of cities throughout the country. However, in order to tap

into the 2nd highest searchers in the US REA Seamus Carthy travelled to New York in March 2016. Aishleen said: “We quickly became aware that there was a large US market that we needed to tap into and we therefore showcased Irish properties to US buyers in Fitzpatrick’s Hotel, New York.” “From this exhibition we created invaluable contacts and interestingly in recent weeks we sold high value properties in Roscommon to two American couples.

“We believe that now is an important time to focus on these buyers again and REA Seamus Carthy are travelling to Boston this time and will be showcasing properties from Roscommon on the 23rd March, 2017. “If you are considering selling your property and would like to speak to us about our contacts in the US please contact us confidentially at our Roscommon Town office at info@ reacarthy.ie or telephone 090-6630001.”

A PRIME HOLDING OF LANDS CONTAINING C. 20 ACRES TOGETHER WITH A 2 B/R ONE STOREY RESIDENCE STANDING THEREON LOCATED AT

BALLINDERRY, FOURMILEHOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON • Quality roadside lands with internal roadway servicing. • All set out in one manageable lot. • 2 B/R residence standing thereon suitable for renovation. • All offers invited to sell. BER: G. LEGAL: REBECCA FINNERTY, SOLICITOR, GOFF ST, ROSCOMMON. 090 66 26528. ---------------------------------------------------------------------

LANDS FOR LEASE - NEW LETTING c. 35 acres located at

Tonebane, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon 6 year term. ENQUIRIES INVITED. ---------------------------------------------------------------------

LANDS TO LET

Aishleen O’Toole.

c. 24 acres located at Shrove, Tulsk from now until 1st November 2017 (with good grass cover).

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

PropertyPeople

Farm and land for Connaughton prepares for March property auction sale in Ballyforan Connaughton Auctioneers are delighted to bring to the market this prime residential farm standing on 16 acres complete with a state-of-the-art two bay slatted shed with creep to rear, pin and crush and a range of outbuildings. This property is located at the end of a country lane convenient to the towns of Ballyforan, Ballygar and Mountbellew. The lands comprise of 11 acres of excellent quality with 5 acres of average quality. There are also 9 acres of commonage with a quarter share adjacent to the lands. The residence is in need of some modernisation

with accommodation consisting of a reception hallway, kitchen/dining/living room, two bedrooms and a main bathroom. Priced to sell, please

contact Connaughton Auctioneers at the office on 0906 66 3700 for further details, maps and brochure or to arrange a viewing.

Connaughton Auctioneers are inviting anyone interested in selling their property in their multi-property auction on the 10th of March next. Speaking to the Roscommon People, Auctioneer Ivan Connaughton said: “Our auction in March will be the first of four auctions to be conducted by Connaughton Auctioneers in 2017. To date, four lots have been entered and we have set a limit of 8-10 properties for our first auction this year. With an increase in activity in the property market consistently over the past 18 months, we have witnessed a large volume of sellers wanting to sell their property by public auction for a number of reasons including certainty of sale, a clear timescale for when their property will be sold and in many other cases such as relocation and executor sales. “The auction route is clear-cut because if you sell the property at auction the normal date for completion of sale is 28 days after the auction. The most important element is that the seller has clear title and their solicitor has the contracts for sale drawn up and available to attend the auction on the 10th of March.” Ivan added: “Anybody that requires further informa-

tion in relation to the process of selling at auction can speak to me by calling the office on 090 666 3700 or on my mobile 086-8985013. At Connaughton Auctioneers we do not sell properties without the owner’s consent, therefore prospective purchasers can be confident the property they may purchase is clear of any disputes. “We have an extensive marketing campaign planned to attract purchasers from both Ireland and abroad and we require cottages, residential (new and second-hand), commercial, agricultural land and building sites for listing in our auction. “As advertised in previous weeks, all current and new clients selling their property with Connaughton Auctioneers can avail of our reduced fees of 1% plus VAT for properties of €250,000 and over. Terms and conditions do apply.” All enquiries in confidence to the office 090 666 3700 or to Ivan on 086-8985013.

Lands and property wanted Murphy welcomes rural renovation grants across Roscommon Hughes & Company (Roscommon) urgently require lands to lease for 5 year or 11 month letting. For sale presently are 40 bales of chopped silage (€25/bale). For a full list on all properties on offer with Hughes & Company you can contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@

pathughesauctioneers.com. All types of property are urgently required in and around the Roscommon area due to a lot of recent sales for disappointed underbidders. If you are thinking of buying or selling, contact Pat in confidence. Let him advise you – his advice is free.

Fianna Fáil TD Eugene Murphy welcomes the rural renovation home grants to restore properties in small towns and villages as part of the Government’s long-term action plan for rural Ireland but he says it needs to be in addition to an action plan on jobs for rural Ireland. Deputy Murphy said: “While I welcome the scheme that is aimed at luring all house buyers, but spe-

cifically older people and first-time buyers, back into rural communities that were decimated by unemployment during the recession, unless the Government give us a plan for jobs in rural Ireland it is not enough to ensure the future of our rural villages and towns. “The loss of population in rural Ireland is not connected with the lack of housing it is due to the loss

of employment therefore the focus needs to be on job creation so that young people want to stay in rural Ireland or relocate to rural Ireland. The climate in rural Ireland at the moment is unsustainable for many young families as there is little or no investment in job creation and while this is the case there is little hope for the saviour of our towns and villages.”

Property Sales ● Valuations ● Lettings ●

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

LANDS TO LET • c.36 Acres of prime lands at Coolusty, Athleague For long term lease with entitlements of €3,432 per annum

• 36.7 Acres at Glenamaddy c. 31.7 Acres at Esker c. 5 Acres at Shannagh More For long term lease with entitlements of €4,480 per annum

WANTED LANDS FOR LEASING CONTACT IVAN TODAY ON

086 898 5013

Are you the owner of one of the ….

We have a client that requires between c150 acres to c.350 acres on a long term lease (10 - 15 years) Existing dairy farm preferable but not essential for a suitable holding Enquiries in confidence to Ivan on 090 666 3700 or 086 898 5013

1% EX. VAT FOR ALL SALES €250,000 AND OVER (Terms and Conditions Apply)

NEW TO THE MARKET

5,658 Vacant Properties in County Roscommon (Source GeoView Residential Buildings Report)

Cash in by Selling or Renting Your Property with

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

WANTED DAIRY FARM FOR AWAITING CLIENT

M.S.C.S.I

NO SALE NO FEE

FOR SALE

Get a Free Valuation Today, No Sale, No Fee! Contact The Property Professionals on 090 666 3700

BLEANNAGLOOS, BALLYGAR CO. GALWAY • Prime residential farm standing on c. 12.75 acres • Four bedroom, two storey residence • Extensive range of out buildings • Suitable for equestrian or canine pursuit • All paddocks well fenced & serviced with water • Located convenient to the towns of Ballygar & Newbridge For further details & information contact the office on 090 66 63700

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

PropertyPeople

Residential farm for sale at Glenballythomas, Tulsk Pat Hughes Auctioneers & Co. are offering for sale a 66-acre residential farm at Glenballythomas, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon. Most of the lands are of good quality with a range of out-offices includ-

ing a 5-bay slatted shed. The lands have excellent road frontage and are located a short distance off the main Frenchpark to Tulsk Road. This is one of the finest farms to come on the market in recent years. Viewing

is highly recommended. For further information on this property phone 090-6627003, email info@pathughesauctioneers.com or visit www.pathughesauctioneers. com

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

URGENTLY REQUIRED All types of property are urgently required in and around the Roscommon area due to a lot of recent sales for disappointed underbidders. If you are thinking of buying or selling, contact Pat in confidence. Let him advise you, his advice is free. Ph. 090 6627003 E-mail info@pathughesauctioeers.com Web www.pathughesauctioneers.com

New to the Market - For sale at KEENAGH, ATHLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON Circa 5 acres of top quality land, located less than ½ mile from the village of Athleague on an elevated site. The lands offer excellent development potential subject to planning permission being granted.

For Sale at NO. 3 ARDANAGH, ROSCOMMON Glenballythomas, Tulsk, Co. Roscommon

Landmark Roscommon Commercial unit to let town property for sale on Athlone Road Pat Hughes Auctioneers & Co. are offering approximately 2,500 sq. ft. of office and commercial space, formerly the old AIB Bank, for sale at Church Street, Roscommon. The property is in excellent condition and stands at the bottom of Main Street and the start of Church Street. Viewing is highly recommended. For further information on this property phone 0906627003, email info@pathughesauctioneers.com or visit www.pathughesauctioneers.com

Pat Hughes Auctioneers & Co. are offering to let a 5,000 sq. ft. commercial unit with a covered loading bay and office space located at the premises that was formerly Spring Grove, Athlone Road, Roscommon. For further information on this property phone 0906627003, email info@pathughesauctioneers.com or visit www.pathughesauctioneers.com.

Pat Hughes Auctioneers & Co. are offering a large commercial building with a two-bedroomed apartment on the first floor at Henry Street, Roscommon. The building is in excellent condition and is well located. Viewing is highly recommended. For further information on this property phone 0906627003, email info@pathughesauctioneers.com or visit www.pathughesauctioneers.com

For Sale by private treaty or public auction at a later date Circa 56 acre residential farm at Carrowkeel, Dysart, Co. Roscommon. All of the lands are of top quality with a three bedroomed farm house and out offices there on. The property can be sold in one or more lots to suit: ➢ Lot 1 – The Entire Property. Residence and Circa 56 acres ➢ Lot 2 – Residence on circa 20 acres ➢ Lot 3 – Circa 14 acres ➢ Lot 4 – Circa 15 acres ➢ Lot 5 – Circa 8 acres

TO LET FORMERLY SPRING GROVE, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON Circa 5,000 Sq Ft commercial Unit with Covered loading bay and office space. For further details please contact the office on 090 6627003 or E-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

New to the Market - To Let at BALLYFORAN AND CLOGHAN,

FOUR ROADS, ROSCOMMON On a 5 year lease circa 82 acres of top quality land. The land can be set in one or more lots to suit and come with the benefit of Entitlements. ➢ Lot 1 - Entire Farm ➢ Lot 2 - Circa 58 acres ➢ Lot 3 - Circa 25 acres

Former HSE ofﬁces for sale on Lanesboro Road common. The building stands on a large site with parking for up to 100 cars. For further information on this

For further details please contact the office on 090 6627003

For further details please contact the office on 09066 27003.

Large commercial building for sale at Henry Street

Pat Hughes Auctioneers & Co. are offering for sale circa 25,000 sq. ft. of office space, formerly the HSE offices at Lanesboro Road, Ros-

A three bedroomed detached residence in need of modernisation on a large site. The residence is located in a prominent location close to all amenities. Accommodation consists of kitchen cum dining room, downstairs bedroom, bathroom and 2 bedrooms upstairs. Viewing is highly recommended. Offers in excess of €60,000 are being considered.

property phone 090-6627003, email info@pathughesauctioneers. com or visit www.pathughesauctioneers.com.

FOR SALE 40 Bales of chopped silage. €25 per bale

URGENTLY REQUIRED Lands to lease for 5 year or 11 month lettings.

82 acres of top quality land to let Pat Hughes Auctioneers & Co. are offering to let new to the market circa 82 acres of top quality land at Ballyforan and Cloghan, Four Roads, Roscommon on a 5-year lease. The land can be set in one or more lots to suit and come with the ben-

efit of Entitlements – Lot 1: Entire farm; Lot 2: Circa 58 acres; Lot 3: Circa 25 acres. For further information on this property phone 090-6627003, email info@pathughesauctioneers.com or visit www.pathughesauctioneers. com

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

FarmingPeople TEAGASC/ANIMAL HEALTH IRELAND

CALFCARE OPEN DAYS

Calf Health

For Lifetime Performance SUPPORTED BY VOLAC

2017 DATES

ON-FARM VENUE

START TIME: 11.00AM

Wed 25th January: Ballyhaise Agricultural College, Ballyhaise, Co. Cavan

GPS 54.0516 - 7.3116

Thurs 26th January: David O’Connor, Clover Hill, Croghan, Boyle, Co. Roscommon 53.9112 - 8.2073 Meeting point in Croghan village Signposted from R370 Frenchpark - Carrick-on-Shannon Rd

All Farmers interested in rearing healthy calves welcome to attend irrespective of participation in KT scheme

Serving Farmers since 1985

THINKING OF FORESTRY:

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

Colm Freyne BSc (Forestry)

Galway/Roscommon Ph: 087-6606043

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

Tel: 094 9542668 www.westernforestry.com

Dead & Worn-Out Animals

Contact

TOM ROGERS

JOHN GREENE

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

BALLINASLOE

Daily collection

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Minimum milk price sought by IFA A minimum price of 30c/l + VAT would be fully justified on December milk, with a view to reaching at least 33c/l before peak, IFA National Dairy Chairman Sean O’Leary said following the first 2017 meeting of the Dairy Committee. This price is on the basis of the continued firming of EU and many global dairy product prices into 2017, underpinned by falling global milk supplies and solid demand. IFA National Dairy Committee members will continue to lobby co-op board members ahead of their December milk price decisions, which will be made this week in most cases. “The US Dairy Exporter Council calculated global milk supplies to be back by over 2.5% in October, even allowing for continued US output increases, in a deepening downward trend which started last June. In the EU, milk supplies as reported by the EU Milk Market Observatory have

also been falling since June, and were down 3.6% in October,” Mr. O’Leary said. “With weather challenges in New Zealand, Australia and South America, nearly three years of negative profitability on many EU farms, a massive 1.3% fall in the German dairy herd and the likely impact of the EU production reduction scheme, the outlook is for continued fall in output for the first half of the year at least, according to Erhard Richarts, dairy expert and Chairman of the German IFE (the Kiel based Institute for Agri Economy),” he said. “Despite the last two auctions, in the past 12 months the GDT price for WMP has increased by 49%, SMP by 41%, butter by 30% and Cheddar by 31%. The 3rd January butter and SMP prices, both of which increased despite the 3.9% fall in the weighted average price, would be equivalent to an Irish farm gate milk price of 33.4c/l + VAT,” he added.

Pictured at the unveiling of a bench in memory of former Roscommon Mart manager, Owen F. Morgan were Michael Naughton, Sean Morgan, Marcus Morgan, Marina Morgan-Browne, Ann MorganHayes and David Morgan.

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

Special Sale of Heifers Tomorrow Friday, 20th January at 11 a.m. Also Bullocks & Dry Cows -------------

Weanlings and Suckler Cows Tuesday, 31st January at 5 p.m. -----------------------

New Year Special sale of Bullocks 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 this Thursday, January 19th ---------------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes

Roscommon Mart Report Tuesday, January 17th: There was a nice entry of stock at the first sale of year. There was a brisk trade for all classes with prices improved from the sale held pre-Christmas. Prices for heifer weanlings ranged from an average of €2.71 per kilo up to €3.30 per kilo. Prices for bull weanlings averaged from €2.43 per kilo up to €3.03 per kilo. The next sale for weanlings and suckler cows will be held on Tuesday, January 31st at 5 pm. There is a Special Sale for Springers and Suckler Cows on Saturday, January 28th. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm today. Weanling heifers made from €310 up to €615 over. Sample prices: Char X 300kgs €915, Lim X 265kgs €875, Char X 325kgs €830 Char 270kgs €800, Lim 270kgs €745, Char X 245kgs €700, Char X 230kgs €675, Lim X 225kgs €670. Weanling bulls made from €330 to

Reach your target market! 18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

(Serving Farmers for over 57 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

€605 over. Sample prices: Lim X 525kgs €1115, Lim X 445kgs €1020, Char X 380kgs €970, Lim X 355kgs €960, AA 380kgs €940, Lim 290kgs €865, Lim X 295kgs €810, Char X 250kgs €700, Char X 200kgs €605. Sheep Sale – Wednesday, January 18th: We had a small entry of hoggets again this week. There was similar trade for the finished hoggets with hoggets making as high as €105. The trade for cast ewes was back on the previous week. Sales continue each Wednesday at 11 am for lambs and cast ewes. Sample prices - Hoggets: 53.9kgs €105, 51.3kgs €105, 55kgs €105, 53kgs €105, 55.3kgs €102, 46kgs €100, 50kgs €100, 47kgs €95, 46.8kgs €97. Cast ewes made from €81 to €89 per lot. Ewes with single lambs at foot made from €135 to €167 per lot.

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

THURSDAY WEEKLY:

SALE OF BULLOCKS, HEIFERS, COWS, CALVES AND WEANLINGS FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Included in Sale Wednesday next January 25th Special Entry of 15 Suffolk in Lamb Breeding Ewes 2 & 3 year olds running with P.B. Cheviot Ram since October due Mid March onwards

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

Castlerea Mart Report There were 250 cattle on offer at our first sale of 2017. Trade was similar to pre-Christmas with good demand for all classes of stock on offer. Quality stores were in strong demand and the top quality weanling heifer was also improved in prices while the first of the suck calves met a very lively trade with continentals making up to €525. The dry cows and breeding stock also reported a firm trade resulting in an excellent clearance. Sample prices – bullocks: Ch 450kgs €1075, Lm 470kgs €1070, Lm 535kgs €1280, Lm 515kgs €1140, Lm 590kgs €1330, Lm 560kgs €1225. Heifers: Sim 420kgs €1180, Ch 485kgs €1190, BBX 455kgs €1150, Ch 450kgs €1080, Ch 565kgs €1300, Ch 530kgs €1235. Dry cows: Lm 690kgs €1275, Lm 560kgs €1125, Ch 840kgs €1490, Her 720kgs €1145. Cows with calves at foot made from €1110 to €1600 per head. Springer cows made from €1000 to €1465 per head. Calves made from €52 to €525 for continental type lots. Weanling heifers: Ch 280kgs €870, AA 290kgs €755, Lm 380kgs €1025, Lm 340kgs €940, Lmx 330kgs €935. Weanling bulls: Lm 280kgs €800, Lm 270kgs €775, BBx 450kgs €1230, BB 395kgs €1170, Ch 380kgs €1075, Ch 320kgs €925. Sales continue at Castlerea Mart on Thursday next (January 19th) with a sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves and weanlings.

Roscommon People Friday 20 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

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.

BIBLE STUDY AN INVITATION: Come and listen to messages from the Bible (Told simply and without obligation.) EVERY SUNDAY 7-8pm in Hannon’s Hotel, Dublin Road, Roscommon. These studies are free and non-denominational.

Contact: 086 8489244

BOUNCING CASTLES ROSCOMMON CASTLES

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

Phone No: (087) 4136355

CAREERS CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

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

CHILDCARE CHATTERLAND PLAYSCHOOL & CRÈCHE, ELPHIN Have the following full-time and part-time spaces available in the following rooms: • Baby room • Wobbler room • Toddler room • Pre-school room We are also taking bookings for ECCE places from January 2017 onwards We participate in all the schemes, namely CETS, CCSP and EECE. Contact Aine on 071 96 30923

CHIMNEY CLEANING COMPLETE CHIMNEY SERVICES • Power brush and vacuum technology for cleaning chimneys, stoves, ranges and open fires • Removes up to 50% more than traditional methods • Firebacks replaced and flues repaired

FAST, RELIABLE AND NO MESS

Tel: 087 2798704

Seamus O’ Doherty B.A., L.L.B., Post Grad. Dip in Ed, H. Dip in School Guidance & Counselling Specialist in: • Career Interest Assessment & Profiling • CAO, UCAS & EUNICAS applications • Subject Choice Assistance • Counselling, CBT and Mindfulness • Motivational Mentoring Contact: 085 1336201 Tulsk, Roscommon Evening & Weekend Appointments Available

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

TELEPHONE: 087 9657933 090 66 26752

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

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

Kathleen’s Mobile Footcare Provided in the comfort of your own home Kathleen Wynne MCFHP, MAFHP

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

CAREER ASSESSMENT, GUIDANCE & COUNSELLING

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

CLEAN SWEEP Chimney Services

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.

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

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

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

DANCE CLASSES

SYL’s

DOCKERY’S SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

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

(094) 98 80281/ (087) 2031909

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

Excellent pass rates

Learn to drive from approved Driving Instructor

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

SPECIAL RATES FOR BEGINNERS AND STUDENTS Gift vouchers now available

Call (085) 1348779

O TOW WI RN T TH A E

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TEL: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

SYL’s School of Motoring

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

SOCIAL DANCE CLASSES:

Contact: 085 1348779

Dancing Made Easy No more two left feet! Learn to Jive, Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Slow Waltz and all the two hand Irish Dances like the Barn Dance, Stack of Barley, Military two step, Gay Gordons and lots more. Great craic. All ages. No partner needed. Tuesday nights at 7.30pm - Beginners, 8.30pm - Advanced. Starting Tuesday 24th January 2017 in Fallon’s Bar, Ballygar.

Paul McStay DSA/ADI (UK) RSA

Telephone: 087 3575751

DRIVING LESSONS

School of Motoring

ACCOUNTS

MIAM ROSPA Approved Driving Instructor Former BSM Driving Instructor and UK advanced Met. Police Driver. GIFT VOUCHER CARDS AVAILABLE Castlerea & Roscommon

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

Learn to drive with ....

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

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

The local paper!

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

Classifieds 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. < LAND TO LET for horses. Roscommon/Westmeath area, available immediately. Owner can check daily. €50.00 per month, per horse. Tel: 085 1352687 < FOR SALE: Round bales of top quality silage. Boyle/ Croghan area. Collect only. Tel: 087 1261876.

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

Tel: (086) 1500207 DES KELLY FENCING Over 20 years in business All types of fencing supplied and erected Including: • Cresoted Posts • Agricultural Fencing • Site Fencing • Security Fencing • Post & Rail Fencing • Concrete Fencing • Grant Approved Fencing No job too big or too small Just give us a call on 087 2346364

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.

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

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

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

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

• 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

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

MINDFULNESS & MEDITATION

MINDFULNESS & MEDITATION 5 week Mindfulness CBT Course

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

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

KENNELS

● 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

STARTING TUESDAY 31ST JANUARY TIMES: 10am and 7.30pm sessions VENUE: Roscommon Primary Care Centre, Golf Links Road, Roscommon Facilitator: Patricia Blighe BSc., H.Dip. This 5 week course demonstrates how our thoughts, emotions, behaviours and our physical reactions all interact together.

TO BOOK CALL/TEXT PATRICIA ON

086 8394323

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

MUSIC TUITION

Can we help you? Call us today to enquire

< PIANO LESSONS FOR beginners in Roscommon town. Offering one-toone tuition. Contact 086 3953331.

Ph. 090 663 0009 Like us on Facebook www.rosptc.com

TRADITIONAL IRISH MUSIC LESSONS: Commencing on Wednesday 25th January in Athleague Angling Centre at 5.30pm. Registration in Athleauge Angling Centre on Friday 20th January at 7pm. Limited numbers. All abilities welcome Adult classes available. For more details please contact 086 1086185. < 7 WEEK ADULT TIN WHISTLE CLASSES for beginners and improvers commencing on Wednesday 1st February in Roscommon Community College from 8pm-9.30pm. Cost - €60 and the course is run by GRETB and tutor is Maggie Wallace. Contact 083 1876490.

We are now located at: 2 Castleview, Castle Street, Roscommon F42 C902

PLANNINGS

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

086 3482387 moleskin architecture@gmail.com facebook.com/moleskinarch

PLANNINGS

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED

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

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.

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.

< FOR RENT: 3 bedroom bungalow available from February. Loughglynn area. Phone Tom on 086 0815802.

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 am applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Kitty Canny for planning permission to construct a small extension to the side of the existing semi-detached property including bathroom upgrade works at No. 4 Lake View, Loughglynn, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. Signed: James Canny. 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 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.

TO RENT: Two bed house in the Ballymoe area. All mod cons, OFCH, solid fuel stove. Fully furnished. Contact: 086 6382123.

< TO LET: 3 bed bungalow Beechwood, Lanesboro Road, outskirts of Roscommon town, would suit family/couple/people sharing. Available from February 1st, minimum 12 month lease. Tel: 087 2822534.

PROPERTY REQUIRED < RELIABLE FEMALE LOOKING for room to rent in Roscommon town. Tel: 087 3844661.

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

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

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

Classifieds 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 PART-TIME EVENING CLEANER REQUIRED: Roscommon town. Good English required. Experience preferred. Please reply to Box No: 970, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < 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. Ballyleague/ Curraghroe/Ballagh/Tarmonbarry area. Suitable candidate will be eligible for normal allowances - respite grants, etc. Contact: 083 8828882. < PERSON REQUIRED for parcel delivery and collection. 20 hours per week. Contact 090 66 26753. PART-TIME BAR STAFF REQUIRED for pub near Roscommon town. Experience desirable. Tel: 087 6659338 after 5pm.

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

SITUATIONS WANTED < FULLY QUALIFIED EXPERIENCED CARER AVAILABLE: Native Irish professional carer available to mind elderly person in his/her own home. Excellent references. Castlerea, Ballaghaderreen, Ballyhaunis, Roscommon area. Contact 087 7597726. < EXPERIENCED CHILDMINDER AVAILABLE with FETAC Level 5 and Occupational First AId. Playroom set up, with hot dinners and snacks provided. Thursdays and Fridays with a view to full-time. For more information call 086 7316358. < PERSON AVAILABLE for housework, babysitting, cleaning, ironing services, kitchen porter or care of the elderly in Roscommon town and surrounding areas. Tel 089 2169509 or 087 3515999.

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

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

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:

Lorraine Beirne 086 3688302

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

TOMMY GILLIGAN

<CASTLEREA/TULSK: LEAVING/JUNIOR CERT Maths, Irish, French. ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE. Private tuition in your own home. Tel: 086 3282437.

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

< FRENCH/GERMAN AND IRISH - Oral and written exam preparation. Higher Level and Ordinary Level from University student with proven results. Castlerea town. Tel: 087 3515985.

CABS

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.

CERTIFICATE < JUNIOR MATHS TUITION: All levels. Roscommon town. Education and Guidance. Professional/experienced teacher. Mobile: 083 4843192 Email: mariag21@eircom. net < MATHEMATICS TUITION AVAILABLE: Junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate to all levels. Also Leaving Certificate Applied Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. One-to-one tuition in students own home. Tel: 086 1237232. < GRINDS REQUIRED in Maths for Computers. First year third level student. North Roscommon area. Phone: 086 3132530.

TV TUITION

Call car direct

(086) 2714879

TOM KILDUFF CABS Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

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.

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

MAL HEVEHAN Telephone: 086 8100292

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.

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON! TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@ roscommonpeople.ie

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

FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Hardwood - Ash and Whitethorn. Tel: 086 2437376. < COAL FOR SALE: 20kg bags of household coal only €7 per bag delivered. Buy 20 bags, get 1 bag free. Contact Tom: 086 2628439. < FULL AND HALF LOADS of shed stored 2016 turf for sale. ALSO seasoned firewood for sale. Tel: 087 1413238.

TYPIST AVAILABLE < TYPING SERVICE AVAILABLE: Typing/transcription/ word processing. If you run a busy office and need backlog typed and printed. Also available to type and print your Thesis, letters, reports, stories, documents, essays, C.V.’s etc. Quality, confidential and efficient service guaranteed. Good rates. Contact Anne on 086 0720770 or email annequeeneykelly@ hotmail.com.

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

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2.30PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time

USEFUL SERVICES

OIL BOILER SERVICE

ONLY €80 Includes new nozzle, Efficiency report, Printout, etc .... 094 96 31880 087 9100477

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 < 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.

USEFUL SERVICES < 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. < UNEMPLOYED HANDYMAN SEEKING WORK: No job too small. • Building • Plastering • Carpentry and Maintenance Work. Call: 087 7561101.

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

FAMILY CIRCLE FAMILY CIRCLE DATE: 14/01/2017 FIRST PRIZE €50: Regina Parker, c/o K. Hoare SECOND PRIZE €25: Paddy Connaughton, c/o K. Collins THIRD PRIZE €20: Ann Harlow, c/o K. Hoare 8 RESIDUAL PRIZES OF €10 EACH: Josh Brady, c/o K. Hoare; Charlie Costello, c/o K. Finan; Alanah Moran, c/o Supervalu; Agnes Donnellan, Main Street; C. Lyons, c/o K. Collins; MJ Farrells; Paddy Joe Burke; Mattie Nevin, c/o Mary Hicks. 5 PROMOTORS PRIZES OF €5 EACH: Kathleen Finan; Kathleen Hoare; Breda Healy; John Igoe; Kathleen Hoare. TOTAL RECEIPTS: €535 TOTAL PRIZES: €200

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

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES COLEMAN Martin

McNAMARA Frank

REGAN Ann

KEANE Padraig

Skehard, Creggs (2nd Anniversary) Who died 11th January 2015

Rockfield, Roscommon (8th Anniversary) Who died on 23rd January 2009

Liscoffey, Athleague, Co. Roscommon (12th Anniversary) Who died on 21st January 2005

Swords, Co. Dublin and formerly Clooncrim, Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon and Clonliffe Harriers Athletic Club Passed away 26th January 2016

Special memories keep you near As time unfolds another year. Each of us in our own way Have special thoughts of you today. Will those who think of him today A little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and remembered always by his wife Mary and family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 22nd January at 11.30am in Kilbegnet Church.

Will those who think of him today, A little prayer To Jesus say.

Remembered by Chris and family.

GALVIN Maureen Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon (9th Anniversary) In loving memory of a dear wife and mother, who passed away 18th of January 2008

CURLEY Josie Castlestrange, Fuerty, Roscommon Whose 3rd Anniversary occurs on 18th January 2017

In loving memory of our beloved mother Josie Curley, Castlestrange, Fuerty, who passed away on 18th January 2014 R.I.P. As each day dawns We think of you As each night falls we pray for you And in between no matter where Deep in our hearts You’re always there. Always loved and remembered by all your loving family.

Sadly missed along life’s way, Quietly remembered every day, No longer in our lives to share, But in our hearts she’s always there. A silent thought, A quiet prayer for a special person in God’s care.

Loved and remembered by her husband George, daughter Georgina and sons William, Francis, Gerard and John. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 22nd January in The Church of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads at 11am.

As we look back over time We find ourselves wondering ..... Did we remember to thank you enough For all you have done for us? For all the times you were by our sides To help and support us ..... To celebrate our successes To understand our problems And accept our defeats? Or for teaching us by your example, The value of hard work, good judgement, Courage and integrity? We wonder if we ever thanked you For the sacrifices you made To let us have the very best? And for the simple things Like laughter, smiles and times we shared? If we have forgotten to show our gratitude enough for all the things you did, We’re thanking you now And we are hoping you knew all along, How much you meant to us.

Missed always by James, sons, daughters, sons-inlaw, daughters-in-law and all your grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 21st January at 7pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Athleague.

REDDINGTON Tom Joe Castlecoote (20th Anniversary)

On this, the First Anniversary of Padraig’s death, Padraig’s wife Mary, sons Conor and Donal and daughter Roisin and extended family, wish to express a sincere thank you and appreciation to all who sympathised with them on the death of Padraig. A special thanks to all who travelled from Ballinlough and surrounding areas and further afield to Padraig’s Wake and Funeral and to all who sent Mass Cards, messages of sympathy and letters. Thank you to all our kind neighbours and friends who provided refreshments and who were so kind with their time throughout the funeral. Such kindness and thoughtful gestures were greatly appreciated. We sincerely hope that this acknowledgement will be accepted as an expression of our deepest appreciation and gratitude. A Novena of Masses has been offered for all your intentions. Anniversary Mass for Padraig will be celebrated in St. Cronan’s Church, Swords on Saturday 28th January at 6.30pm.

KELLY Kathleen

KELLY Frank

Ardmore, Donamon, Roscommon Who died on 24th January 2012 (5th Anniversary)

Mullymux, Roscommon (9th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Frank, who died on 21st January 2008 R.I.P. To us you were someone special Someone set apart Your memory will live forever Engraved within our hearts.

Sadly missed by all your family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 29th January at 11am in the Sacred Heart Home, Roscommon.

HOARE Annie

Time slips by Life goes on But from our hearts You are never gone.

Always loved and remembered by your wife Celine and family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 28th January at 9.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

TIGHE Philomena (17th Anniversary)

Racecourse Road, Roscommon Remembering you is easy We do it everyday It’s just the pain of losing you That never goes away.

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To hear your voice To see your smile To sit and talk to you a while, To be together in the same old way Would be our greatest wish.

Sadly missed by his wife Mary and family. Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Assumption, Castlecoote on Sunday 22nd January at 11.30am.

Lovingly remembered by all your family.

In loving memory of Philomena Tighe, who died on 22nd January 2000 R.I.P. Always remembered and sadly missed by her family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 21st January in Glinsk Church at 7pm.

HOARE Jerry 3 Ard Comain, Henry Street, Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

My darling husband, When I lost you three years ago I lost part of myself, but I think you would know I have tried my best to muddle along But it cannot be the same now you’re gone. So on this day as I do every year I hope you can see just how much I care And until we meet again my love Just keep watching me from your cloud above.

Always remembered and loved by your heartbroken wife Kathleen. Anniversary Mass on Wednesday 25th of January at 10.30am in the Sacred Heart Church. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Losing our dad was our rock shattered We may no longer have been children But oh how dad mattered Our foundations are shaky And we wobble and fall. So when this day arrives each year We do our best to show how we still care We hope dad knew how much he was loved And that he is looking down on us.

Always remembered and loved by his heartbroken children and grandchildren. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

HOARE Jerry Henry Street, Roscommon (3rd Anniversary) As I sit here in Heaven And watch you everyday I try to let you know with signs I never went away. I hear you when you are laughing And watch you as you sleep I even place my arms around you to calm you when you weep. I see you wish your day away Begging to have me home So I try to send you signs So you know you are not alone. Believe me when I tell you Heaven is a beautiful place Just you wait and see. So live your life, laugh again Enjoy yourself, be free Then I know with every breath you take You’ll be taking one for me.

Sadly missed and always remembered by his brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES HOARE Monika

HOPKINS Mary

MEE Bernadette

DOWD John

GERAGHTY Brian

19 Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

Kilbarry, Rooskey, Co. Roscommon

Hawthorn Drive, Roscommon and formerly Feevagh, Dysart, Co. Roscommon Who passed away peacefully on the 11th December 2016

6 Lanesboro Street, Roscommon Who passed away on 16th January 2003 14th Anniversary - Aged 45

Rocksavage House (16th Anniversary)

Treasured memories of a loving wife, mother and sister who passed away on 19th January 2009 Down the path of memories We gently tread today All our thoughts are of you On this our saddest day. We miss you so very much and however hard we try There will always be a part of us, That cannot say goodbye. We miss your sense of humour The sparkle in your eyes Everything you did for us Brought happiness to our lives.

Loved dearly and never forgotten by Harry and daughters Martha and Beth. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ MONIKA Our memories build a special bridge When loved ones have to part To help us feel we’re with them still And soothe a grieving heart. Our memories span the years we shared Preserving ties that bind, They build a special bridge of love And bring us peace of mind.

Forever in our hearts, from your sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ MONIKA Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take But by the moments that take our breath away. ‘You took our breath away’.

Your loving sisters Mary and Camilla, Jimmy, Donal, Paul and Ciara. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 4th February at 9.30am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

In loving memory of our dear mam, who died on 23rd January 2015 R.I.P. We think of you in silence We talk about you too We have some lovely memories But we wish we still had you.

Always loved by all the family. Anniversary Mass in Whitehall Church on Sunday 22nd January at 11am.

McDONNELL Michael Lisheenanerine, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Who passed away on 21st January 2002 (15th Anniversary)

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.

Lovingly remembered by Damien.

FAGAN Vincent 10 St. Teresa’s Road, Lisnamult (1st Anniversary)

Eileen Kelly and family Mount Talbot, Roscommon and Joesphine and Peter Coyle, Knockcroghery, Roscommon wish to sincerely thank all the people who sympathised with us on our recent loss. We want to express our gratitude to everybody who travelled long distances to attend the Reposing, Removal, Requiem Mass and those who called personally to her house to express their sympathy. A special word of thanks to all our friends who brought food etc to her house and to our many friends who helped with refreshments, outside lighting, parking, traffic management and to the Garda Siochana for their help on the evening of her Removal to the Sacred Heart Church. To all our relatives, extended families, neighbours and our many friends for all their kind words, love and support shown to us during this time. A special thank you to Rev Fr. John Cullen and Rev Fr. Francis Beirne for con-celebrating her Funeral Mass. To the choir for their beautiful hymns, to everybody who took part in her Funeral Mass, to Fr. Beirne for receiving her Remains into Dysart Cemetery for Burial. Special thanks to everybody who sent Mass Cards, floral tributes, letters of sympathy, text messages and all who telephoned us personally to express their sympathy. We want to extend our gratitude to everyone who helped during her illness, Dr. Martin Daly and Staff at Ballygar Medical Centre, McGuinness Totalhealth Pharmacy, Roscommon for their courtesy always. Mr. Liam McMullin and Staff at Roscommon University Hosptial, Radiology and Out-Patient’s Staff at Roscommon Hospital. Mr. Justin Geoghegan and Staff in St. Vincents Hospital Dublin. Mr. Mark Regan and Prof. Maccon Keane, University Hospital Galway. The Oncology Nursing Staff at Portiuncula University Hospital, Ballinasloe. The Public Health Nurses and Staff at the Primary Care Centre, Roscommon. The Palliative Care Team and Personnel from RSG in Roscommon for their kindness and understanding. To her very good friends and kind neighbours Mary and Johnnie who were always on hand to help out in every way possible. To Ursula Hannon and Staff at Hannon’s Hotel for their assistance during her illness. We wish to express our sincere thanks to Smyth’s Funeral Directors, Roscommon for their help, advice and professionalism in carrying out her Funeral arrangements. To the gravediggers who prepared Bernadette’s final resting place with care and attention. Thank you to the committee of Dysart Community Centre for the use and preparation of the Centre and the girls who helped serve the food. Sean Mulry and Staff of the Peppermill Restaurant, Roscommon who suppleid and served such beautiful food following her Burial. Bernadette’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 21st January at 7 p.m. in the Sacred Heart Chruch, Roscommon.

Family Notices Will those who think of Vincent today A little prayer to Jesus say.

Much loved and sadly missed by his wife Margaret (Peggy) and his wide circle of family and friends. Vincent’s Anniversary Mass on 22nd January at 12.15pm in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

• Anniversary Remembrance • Acknowledgements • Birthday Remembrance Call into our office on Abbey Street, Roscommon Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie Our deadline for receipt of Family Notices is 2.30pm on Tuesday.

We cannot guarantee publication after this time.

The Angels gathered by your side so very close to you For they knew the pain and suffering that you were going through I thought about so many things As I gently held your hand Oh how I wished that you were at peace as you faced your eternal land. Your eyes were looking homeward to that place beyond the sky As God held His outstretched arms to you It was time to say goodbye. I struggled with my selfish thoughts For I wanted you to stay So we could walk and talk again like we did on so many a day. But God above knew the answer I just knew he loved you so So I gave you one of life’s greatest gifts The gift of letting go. It will never ease the sadness Or the pain I’ve come to know For no matter how much time goes by I will always miss you so.

Loved and remembered forever Margaret xxx ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

DOWD Neil 6 Lanesboro Street, Roscommon 6th Anniversary - Aged 30

Neil, I need you to talk to I need you to see I need you so much I just need you with me. My life is so empty My heart fills with fear I need you beside me I just need you here. Why were you taken. I ask that each day, But no one can answer. for there’s nothing to say. I hope that you’re happy I pray that you’re safe I wish I could hear you That I still can hold faith. That’s all that I have now and believe that it’s true In a life beyond this one When one day I’ll meet you. Call to me Neil, just whisper my name Just tell me you’re happy and I’ll try to be the same. My life for six years is so empty and dark The light that once shone has gone out of my heart. You will forever be the centre of my world You know I held you so dear But now that world is shattered For you’re no longer here. It’s so hard that you had to go Your leaving caused such pain You were just so special Earth’s loss is Heaven’s gain.

Loved and remembered forever, your mother Margaret xxx ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ For Neil’s Friend’s You did so many things for Neil Your friendship so kind and true For when he needed someone He could always count on you.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 21st January 2017 in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 9.30am.

How lovely is your dwelling place Lord, God of Hosts. They are happy, Who dwell in your house, Forevery singing your praise. I thought he’d live forever He seemed so big and strong. But the minutes fly And years roll by For a father and a son. And suddenly when it happened There was so much left unsaid, No second chance To tell him thanks For everything he’s done.

Fondly remembered, especially at Holy Mass, by Anna, Arthur, Brian, Padraic, Niall, Edward and Ciaran.

HENNIGAN Anne (Nancy) Castletanna, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Anne who passed away on 14th January 2014. Also remembering at this time her husband, Cornelius (Sonny), who passed away on 26th August 1976 We lost a mother with a heart of gold How much we miss her can never be told She shared our troubles and helped us along If we follow in her footsteps We will never go wrong.

Always remembered by her son Tommy Joe. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 22nd January at 11am in St. Bridget’s Church, Fourmilehouse.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

Appointments 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.

ATHLEAGUE Due to internal Promotions & Business Development, Kepak Athleague are now recruiting for the following positions

DISPATCH MANAGER

Key responsibilities to include: • Product selection for orders • Ensuring orders dispatch to plan • Record stocks and manage stock rotation • Managing dispatch team • Health & Safety management in the area.

BONING HALL SUPERVISOR EVENING SHIFT You must have the ability to be able to plan for the achievement of schedules by ensuring materials and resources are available - packaging, carcase lamb, staff etc. You must also be able to achieve line efficiencies as agreed with the Boning Hall Manager, while also being able to help, promote, supervise and encourage staff to deliver a quality product on a consistent basis. Previous experience in a similar position would be a distinct advantage with experience in an FMCG environment beneficial. If you are interested in either of the above positions, please send your CV to:

claire.finneran@kepak.com or by post to: Claire Finneran, Kepak Athleague, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Closing date for applications: Wednesday 25th January 2017

ROSCOMMON CO-OPERATIVE LIVESTOCK MARTS LTD

JOIN THE WINNING TEAM. Colm Quinn are currently recruiting Hardworking, Dedicated & Strong Team Players to join our Service Team in Athlone; We are currently recruiting for the following positions: x Experienced Service Advisor x Experienced Workshop Controller x Experienced Service Technician x Junior Service Administrator x Valetor For further details on the above positions, please visit: http://www.colmquinnbmwathlone.ie/web/careers/ DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO DRIVE OUR BUSINESS?

To Apply: Please send your CV and a covering note to: careers@colmquinnbmw.ie

CLERICAL ASSISTANT A Clerical Assistant is required by Roscommon Co-Operative Livestock Marts Ideal candidates will be educated to Leaving Certificate Level, have good IT skills and a good knowledge of agriculture in general. Duties will include assisting the Office Administrator and General Manager with all aspects of the running of Roscommon Co-Operative Livestock Mart. The Clerical Assistant will report directly to the General Manager of Roscommon Livestock Mart

PLEASE APPLY WITH COVERING LETTER AND CURRICULUM VITAE TO: The General Manager, Roscommon Co-Operative Livestock Mart, Circular Road, Roscommon OR VIA EMAIL TO: quigleymaura@gmail.com Closing date for Applications is Friday 3rd February

STROKESTOWN MEDICAL PRACTICE

GENERAL PRACTICE NURSE REQUIRED

To cover maternity leave for 1-2 days per week commencing in June. Usual practice nurse skills required (must be up to date on the new childhood vaccine schedule) pap smears etc.

For further particulars, please contact surgery on (071) 9633390 Kindly forward resume/cv and details of referees/Garda clearance, etc to traumadoc55@hotmail.com

RECEPTIONIST / GRAPHIC DESIGNER REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY FOR 2 / 3 DAYS PER WEEK Candidates should be reliable, honest and have a pleasant personality with excellent communication and customer relationship skills. Candidates with a creative flair and ideas in a visually engaging way for print and on-line media are invited to apply for this position. Excellent interpersonal communication skills and attention to detail to meet exacting quality requirements and challenging publishing deadlines for busy newspaper are essential. Successful candidate will be required to demonstrate a broad range of skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office and be able to manage workflow in a timely manner, without error, as well as demonstrating linguistic accuracy and competent, accurate typing skills. Knowledge of Adobe InDesign and Photoshop would be a distinct advantage. Apply in confidence to: Box No. 382, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

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Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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| Insurance Repairs | Restoration Work | Paint Repairs | Colour Matching | Panel Replacement | Valeting | And much more Rathra, Tiobhine, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon T: 094 98 72870 M: 087 6077277 E: wreck.amended@yahoo.ie 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.

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

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OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2.30PM ON TUESDAY We cannot guarantee publication after this time ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON TEL: 090 66 34633 EMAIL: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie

Tel Brian on 098 42501 or 086 8478376 or contact Ruth on 086 7913744 (Frenchpark)

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LEGAL NOTICES STATUTORY NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE ESTATE OF DENIS BRADY, DECEASED LATE OF BALLYMACURLEY, BALLINAHEGLISH IN THE COUNTY OF ROSCOMMON NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given pursuant to Section 49 of the Succession Act 1965 that particulars in writing of all claims against the estate of the abovenamed deceased who died on the 20th day of April 2015, probate of whose Will was granted to the Executors on the 14th day of March 2016, should be furnished to the undersigned Solicitors for the Executors on or before the 20th day of February 2017, after which date the assets will be distributed having regard only to the claims furnished. DATED the 5th day of January 2017. SIGNED: Mahon Sweeney, Solicitors, Main Street, Roscommon.

Letters to the Editor THANKSGIVINGS 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 you 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 wil be granted. S.L. 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 you 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 wil be granted. M.T.C. THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this special one (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where you 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 wil be granted. A.M.

Send your letters to: Abbey Street, Roscommon Town. Fax: (090) 66 34303 or email: news@roscommonpeople.ie

‘If Santa was from Ireland his visits could be delayed until summer…due to bureaucracy’ Correal, Athleague, Co. Roscommon Dear Sir, This time last year I was three to five weeks slopping in and out of a boat depending on which direction on the road I wanted to go, towing provisions and feed stuff behind me on a raft, and I was one of the lucky ones. This winter Mother Nature smiled generously and water levels here were never as low. But nature abhors a vacuum, replacing worry with worry and the malignancy currently visited on me is the civil service, which deploys its annoyance and hardship in a silent but insidious way. To date since last September I have not received any payments under The Basic Payments Scheme 2016 from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as is my entitlement. Worst still I have not received any communication stating why, as is also my entitlement under The Farmers Charter. I have not been informed of any self-incurred penalties or infringements, I am totally tax compliant and I have all my utility bills paid. My calls to a faceless office in Portlaoise, where I was dealt with by a sympathetic messenger, has still effected no official reply. The sympathetic messenger used alien phrases like ‘random survey’ and ‘satellite imagery’, words as far removed from quality food production as the man in the moon, but suitably impressive to justify massive salaries and bureaucratic intimidation. In famine Ireland we had great wealth alongside dire poverty, today

this country stinks of a similar malaise. I am glad that 2016 has passed with its centenary echoes of treating all children of the State equally. In Ireland we talk at length about illness, depression and suicide, how to avoid and combat it. We have hotlines, helplines and freephone numbers for help, yet citizens like me are left in limbo without thought or consideration for their physical, mental or economic health. They tell us that communication is vital, tell it to the civil service. At least I can express my concerns; others might seek more desperate solutions. Is it not important to get the basics right? The otherworldly Limbo was abolished some years ago but for us in the farming sector it came down to earth. If Santa was from Ireland his Christmas visits could be delayed until summer, if at all, due to bureaucratic twaddle – and I was a good boy.

What of my living costs, my business costs and my credit rating, who cares? In perspective I am not homeless, hungry or in debt, as many are, and to date I have the ability and agility to weather storms – but what if I did not? Like the character in Frank Kelly’s ditty I would be “a broken man”. Indeed the late Frank Kelly could add a 13th day of disastrous visitations to his menagerie of worry and stress in his ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ that elephant in the room, the ineptitude of the civil service. Incidentally I am still on the Department mailing list for receiving what looks like very expensively produced junk mail. Understanding the danger of expressing a view, I remain, in fear of retribution, James Moran

Lanesboro Triathlon Club hosts Open Evening Lanesboro Triathlon Club are holding an open evening on Saturday, 28th of January at 7 pm in the club rooms, in the Co-Op, Main Street, Lanesborough. The evening is a chance to meet existing members and find out more about the club and one of Ireland’s fastest growing sports. Already a swimmer, cyclist or runner and looking for a new challenge? Triathlon could well be the sport for you! The club has an active junior section that’s open to children of 8 and over. It’s a great way to get the kids active and off their screens for a while. Interested? Then come along and see what we can do for you. If you can’t make it on the night, you can find us on Facebook at facebook.com/trilanesboro, email us at exec@ trilanesboro.com or call Frank on 087-9152599.

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Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

SportsPeople Positive signs!

FBD run continues with NUIG win Liam McHale offers some feedback prior to Roscommonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FBD League win over NUIG last Sunday in Ballyforan. Pic: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

SportsPeople This weekend’s action Thursday racing in Ireland this week takes place at Thurles, first off at 12.10 pm and tomorrow’s meeting is on the flat at the all-weather in Dundalk with stalls opening for the first at 5.30 pm. Saturday’s racing takes place at Proudstown Park outside Navan with the first away at 12.30 pm. On Sunday, racing is in Dublin 18 at Leopardstown starting at 1.10 pm. Sunday is Coral Racing Day featuring 2 races worth €100,000, the Coral Handicap Hurdle backed up by the Coral Handicap Chase. The going is soft, yielding in places, at Thurles today. Soft in Navan and yielding, yielding to soft at Leopardstown the weekend at present. The going is standard at Dundalk.

Racing news

Horses for Courses by Tom Red

Creggs RFC Report

Tony Martin’s Melbourne Cup runnerup Heartbreak City heads a list of 29 horses standing their ground in the Coral. ie Handicap Hurdle at Leopardstown on Sunday. The 7–Y-O is clear ante post favourite at 5/2 with 10/1 bar one. There are 22 possibles in the Coral.ie Leopardstown Handicap Chase with much tighter betting, 6/1 the field. Gigginstown pair Ball D’Arc and A Toi Phil are joint favourites but Stellar Notion and Tennis Cap have been backed at long odds. Tennis Cap could win for WP Mullins. There are 40 horses entered in next week’s Thyestes Chase at Gowran Park. The

€100,000 race is headed by the Gordon Elliott trained Roi Des Francs who carries topweight of 11st 10lbs. Elliott also has Clarcam on 11st 7lbs and Ucello Conti, third last year, has 10st 10lbs. WP Mullins has 6, Noel Meade 4, Henry de Bromhead, Mouse Morris, Liam Burke and England’s Rebecca Curtis each have 2. There are 39 entries in this year’s Champion Hurdle, 13 from Ireland, 9 from WP Mullins’ yard. Faugheen and Annie Power head the Closutton entry along with last year’s third Nichols Canyon, Vroum Vroum Mag, Wicklow Brave, Clondaw Warrior, Diakali, Ivan Grozny and Footpad. Jessica Harrington’s 2014 winner Jezki, Henry de Bromhead’s Petit Mouchoir, Joseph O’Brien’s Triumph Hurdle hero Ivanovich Gorbatov and the Gordon Elliott-trained Apple’s Jade complete the Irish entry.

General news Delighted to see a number of campaign groups have been set up to attempt to stop plans to sell off Kempton racecourse. The Save Kempton Park group have promised to protest at the Cheltenham Festival and at the Jockey Club’s headquarters in London. Brian Fletcher, who won 3 Aintree Grand Nationals, has died at the age of 69. He began his career at 16 with Denys Smith and 3 years later as at 19 had his first ride on Red Alligator finishing 3rd to Foinavon. The team returned 12 months later in 1968 to record the first of his 3 National wins. The other two came 5 years later when he completed back-to-back wins on the famous Red

Almandin, near side, pips Heartbreak City in the Melbourne Cup.

Rum for Ginger McCain joining a small club of 4 to win 3 Grand Nationals. The other 3 were Tom Oliver in the 1840s and 50s, George Stevens who rode 5 winners between the 1856 and 1870 and Tommy Beasley, the only Irish jockey to do so, who rode 3 winners in the 1880s.

Point to Point View There are two meetings on this weekend, on Sunday at Kilfeacle in Co. Tipperary and Dungarvan in Co. Waterford with both scheduled for a 12.30 pm start.

The winner of the 4-Y-O maiden in Rockfield in 2014, American, continued on his winning ways, 4 wins out of 6 runs, at Warwick last Saturday in a Listed Novice 3m Chase and he finished in the money in his other 2 races. On a sad note, last Sunday Frankie Kiernan, synonymous with the Westmeath Hunt, passed away after a short illness. He is survived by his wife Ita, son Jonathan, daughters Sonya and Heather and extended family to whom we extend our sympathies. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs down Galwegians in shock win! Connacht U-16 A League: Creggs 17 Galwegians RFC 15. Creggs pulled off a shock win away from home last Saturday morning against a previously unbeaten and much fancied Galwegians team in the Connacht A League. Creggs started very lethargically and were second best in all areas during the early exchanges. Wegians dominance was rewarded when their back line easily outpaced their Creggs counterparts to score in the corner. From the restart Galwegians failed to secure the ball, Roddie McGuinness gathered and set up the ruck for Creggs and three phases later Creggs captain and scrum-half Aodha Hession went over from a metre out, Mark Purcell added the conversion and the visitors had an unlikely 2 point lead. The promised rain held off and with both teams looking to move the ball wide, the game was opening up. The Creggs set-piece, scrum and line-out were functioning the better of the two teams but Galwegians were making fewer mistakes and winning more ball at the breakdown. On 22 minutes the home team took the lead when their forwards patiently worked a fine score under the post for seven points and a half-time lead of 12-7. Creggs started the second half strongly but were fail-

ing to find the decisive pass to penetrate the Galwegians defence. However, when Wegians were penalised for holding on in the tackle, Mark Purcell stroked over a difficult penalty to narrow the gap. With both defensive lines taking liberties with the offside rule the referee decided to punish Creggs in the 52nd minute in front of their posts and the Galway team happily collected the three points on offer and with only eight minutes remaining this should have been the decisive score. Creggs with one eye on the upcoming Connacht Cup had all their substitutes on and it was difficult to see how they could turn this around. However, the Creggs team dug deep with some strong drives from their big forwards and with Thomas O’Brien to the fore, Creggs were consistently getting over the gain line. With only two minutes remaining Sam Sullivan took off from his own ten metre line, evaded several defenders before off-loading to Jack Tucker who passed inside to Purcell who was brought to ground just 10 metres short. Creggs recycled through two more phases and then O’Brien powered over for the try to level the match. This left Mark Purcell with a difficult conversion attempt which he made look easy with an excellent strike giving him

a 100% kicking success rate on the day. Creggs claimed the win as they saw out the last minute against one of the established old guard of club rugby. The Creggs team travelled on to the Sportsgrounds to see Connacht’s very comfortable win over Zebre in the Champions Cup for a memorable day out for the village U-16 team. Creggs: Thomas O’Brien, Tom Farrell, Eric O’Doherty, Jack Tucker, Kaylem Holian, Rory Callaghan, John McDonnell, Jack Keegan, Leigh Doyle, Mark Purcell, Sam O’Sullivan, Jonathan Whyte, Richard King, Aaron Hannon, Jack Hanley, Kealan Gunning, Lorcan Maher, Diarmuid Quinn, Roddie McGuinness, Aodha Hession. Connacht Junior League: Portumna 5 Creggs 34. Creggs advanced to the second round of the Junior Cup, scoring four tries in the process, however this game was by no means a cantor for the visitors as the scoreline may suggest. The first half was a dour physical battle with Portumna scoring the first try, Ger Heneghan landed two penalties in response and Michael Farrell crossed in the corner on 28 minutes to give his side an 11-5 lead at half-time. Creggs endured a torrid period early in the second half with Portumna pummel-

The Creggs U-16 team which enjoyed a big win over Galwegians at home before enjoying Connacht’s big win over Zebre at the Sportsgrounds last weekend.

ling their line. The Creggs defence held, albeit losing Mike Blighe to a yellow card, essentially taking one for his team, which ultimately lifted the siege. Then when replacement full-back Kevin Gavin scored a second try with his first touch of the ball, latching onto a brilliant pass from Kevin Brandon, the game was all but over. Creggs added further tries from right-wing Luke Meehan, converted by Ger Heneghan, and Alan Brandon’s try after 34 minutes completed the scoring. This Sunday Creggs are at home to Dunmore in the second round of the cup – kick-off at The Green is 2

pm (note earlier time). U-18 League: Creggs 20 Galwegians RFC 25. Creggs had already qualified for the semi-finals of the U-18 league went down to a more committed Galwegians side last Sunday in Creggs by 25 points to 20. Galwegians needed to win to make the top 4 and were very much on top in the first half going in at half-time 20-3 up, with Creggs’ only score coming from the boot of Ben McGahon. Creggs made changes in the second half and brought on some players who had been rested for this occasion and although they gave away an early try, they recovered and gained better

control of the ball. Moving the opposition around the pitch a bit better Creggs touched down three times through Jason Hoare and Eoghan Coyle bringing the score back to 25-20. Creggs will have the same opposition in the league semi-final on Sunday, February 4th and will need to up their intensity for that encounter if they want to reach the league final. Training continues Friday at 8.30 pm. U-13s: Creggs welcome Sligo RFC to Creggs on Saturday at 1.30 pm. Training continues Wednesdays at 7 pm. U-14s: Creggs tavel to Corinthians RFC this Saturday

at 1.30 pm. Training continues on Wednesdays at 7 pm. U-15s: Creggs welcome Ballina RFC to Creggs in the U-15A League on Saturday at 11.30 am. Training continues Thursdays at 7 pm. U-16s: Creggs will play Ballina RFC in the U-16A League on Sunday at 12 pm in Creggs. Training continues Thursdays at 7 pm. U-18s will train in Creggs on Friday evening at 8.30 pm. Mini Rugby: Creggs Mini Boys are due to welcome Tuam RFC to Creggs next Saturday for a blitz while the Mini Girls team is due in Athlone for a blitz.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

SportsPeople

SICK AS AROSCOMMON PARROT/OVER THE MOON & DISTRICT LEAGUE NEWS This week’s Awards… Win of the

Week

Sligo otball in the play their fo ads in the FAI Junior ho w c lti Ce e he g Boyl been turnin Town 4-1 on League havenday they beat Ballina rilling 3-3 draw. th Su a st g in La w llo a Cup. round six fo who played penalties in ns to Danny Browne ured impressive tio at la fe tu so ra al rcell ng Co ayer, Seán Pu line-up which stormer in a former Roscommon pls. displays fromock GAA’s Dessie Carlo and Castlekn eek ce of the W ! A very Performan haven’t gone away you knllyow moe’s Ba n d w en To Ballinasloe rformance saw them e start of what gnaling th in the process. impressive pe cord while si unbeaten re be a nail-biting title race to promises e Week without Game of th certainly weren’t giving ithuup ge win in a d ch te in ni cl U ough to Cloonfad . ysart did en a fight but D ging it 3-2 in Cloonfad ed 1, Division

Dooner’s weekend predictions This time last week I mentioned how precarious Ballymoe’s lead at the top of the Premier Division was despite winning ten games in a row. Last Sunday they slipped up at home against Ballinasloe Town while Moore United leap-frogged them with a fortunate win over Skyvalley Rovers. This weekend Ballymoe face a tricky trip to Ballaghaderreen who were unfortunate to come away with nothing at home to Castlerea Celtic last weekend.

Friday, January 20th

Saturday, January 21st

Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 (8 pm) Moore United B v Shiven Rovers B Both Moore teams going well at this point. Prediction: Moore United B Strokestown United v Cloonfad United B Still unbeaten and should remain so following this encounter. Prediction: Strokestown United

The Herald Premier Division Shiven Rovers v St. John’s Athletic. 7.45 pm St. John’s were impressive last weekend against Brazukas but Shiven boast the top marksman in the league in Eric Walsh. Prediction: Shiven Rovers Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 Cloonfad United v Lough Harps. 7.30 pm It’s a long way back for

Soccer Results The Herald Premier Division Shiven Rovers 2 Ahascragh United 0 Ballaghaderreen FC 1 Castlerea Celtic 2 Ballymoe FC 0 Ballinasloe Town 2 Brazukas 0 St. John’s Athletic 2 Skyvalley Rovers 0 Moore United 1 Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 Cloonfad United 2 Dysart FC 3 Ballinasloe Town B 2 CP Ajax 1 Dunmore Town 6 Rahara Rovers 0 Lough Harps 4 Glen Celtic 1 Loughglynn United 1 Kilkerrin United 3 Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 Shiven Rovers B v Cam Celtic, postponed. Moore United B W/O Hodson Bay Athletic Ballinagare FC 2 Roscommon United 6 Castlerea Celtic B 2 Cloonfad United B 0 Moylough ’79 1 Dunmore Town B 1

Action from the RDFL Premier Division game between Ballaghaderreen FC and Castlerea Celtic. Pic: Dan Dooner

Cloonfad at the top of the table following their defeat to Dysart last weekend. They need to recover immediately. Prediction: Cloonfad United

Sunday, January 22nd The Herald Premier Division Ahascragh United v Castlerea Celtic. 11 am Castlerea play some neat and tidy football and I don’t think Ahascragh have the firepower to trouble them. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic Ballaghaderreen FC v Ballymoe FC. 2 pm Ballagh’ struck the woodwork twice last Sunday as they were beaten narrowly by Castlerea. They’ll have to be more assured in possession if they are to stop Ballymoe. Prediction: Ballymoe FC Skyvalley Rovers v Ballinasloe Town. 2 pm Ballinasloe Town are back. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (2 pm) Ballinasloe Town B v Kilkerrin United Kilkerrin should have enough here.

Prediction: Kilkerrin United Dysart FC v Glen Celtic Surely 14 wins out of 14 for the champions-elect? Prediction: Dysart FC Rahara Rovers v CP Ajax The home side’s season is going from bad to worse. Prediction: CP Ajax Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 Cam Celtic v Hodson Bay Athletic. 11.30 am Hodson Bay handed Moore a walkover last weekend, hopefully they’ll make their check-out time this Sunday. Prediction: Draw Skyvalley Rovers v Castlerea Celtic B. 11.30 am Skyvalley are yet to win a game this season and that won’t change this weekend. Prediction: Castlerea Celtic B Dunmore Town B v Roscommon United. 2 pm The visitors have been impressive lately but this will be a big test. Prediction: Draw Ballinagare FC v Moylough ’79. 2 pm Moylough will take heart from Roscommon United’s demolition job in Ballinagare last weekend. Prediction: Moylough ‘79

Ballaghaderreen FC – A club on the up! < DAN DOONER

As footballing outposts go, Ballaghaderreen is right up there. The last Roscommon & District League enclave before you hit Mayo. Ballaghaderreen FC kicked back into life in its current guise and location in 2008 and it has seen eight years of success including promotion from Division 2 to the Premier Division. The club even came close to winning the top flight a couple of times in those years but, alas, has always just fallen short. I arrive on a damp and dull Sunday ahead of the club’s

home fixture against Premier Division champions Castlerea Celtic. I’m immediately impressed with the two-storey clubhouse, the AstroTurf facilities and the immaculate pitch, which belies the weather and time of the year. Upstairs in the kitchen one of the busiest treasurers in the Roscommon & District League, Brid Duffy, offers me coffee and chocolate biscuits. PRO Pat Browne and Chairman James Kilcoyne have no time for the biscuits, however, as they ‘discuss’ Roscommon and Mayo and Ballaghaderreen FC memories. It’s passion-

The AstroTurf facilities at Ballaghaderreen FC. Pic: Andrew Fox

ate yet good-humoured. Both men it turns out are fans of Wolverhampton Wanderers and I momentarily feel as though I’ve been thrown to the Wolves! One thing they do agree on though is the success of Ballaghaderreen FC and the importance of local support. Evidence of this support is provided by our surroundings. The football club is situated in the Community Sports Park and is in fact the ‘anchor tenant’. James explains: “Ballaghaderreen FC was homeless for a period after Priory Park was sold for housing development. The Community Park Committee was set-up to provide a multisport facility in 1998 and since 2008 the soccer club has been in this location.” The community provides support for the football club and in turn the club gives back. James continues: “Ballaghaderreen FC has invested €40,000 into the Community Park. The generosity of the people in the town has enabled us to do that.”

The Ballaghaderreen 50/50 Draw is well supported in these parts and is a vital fundraiser for the club and the continued development of facilities. Funds, which are not easy to come by, are crucial in supporting teams across all age groups. It’s not just players within the club who benefit, however, as FAI Cúl Camps have proven to be very popular over the last two years while Soccer Sisters has boasted numbers of over 40 participants. The importance of the facilities can’t be overestimated. While the senior team has enjoyed life in the Premier Division for the past five years, the plan is to develop a conveyor belt from the grassroots. Brendan McGreal and Michael Feeney work with underage boys’ and girls’ teams and highlighted the important work the club is doing in that regard. Brendan said: “All the managers have gone through the courses and welfare courses in-house with Adrian Carberry (FAI). There’s a lot

Ballaghaderreen FC committee members include, front row (L-r): James Kilcoyne, Chairman; Brid Duffy, Treasurer and Aiden Tansey. Back row (L-r): Brendan McGreal, Seamus O’Grady, Club Secretary and Michael Feeney. Missing from photograph are PRO Pat Browne and Andy Hanley.

of involvement with the Kennedy Cup and it’s very competitive at every age group.” Michael adds: “The girls have won league titles down through each age group and there’s huge interest among them.” Brendan reiterated the importance of the club’s involvement with young players: “It comes down to the great coaching and of course the AstroTurf, which

I think is a necessity.” With Ireland’s changeable climate the facilities are indeed a necessity and chairman James told me the next item on the agenda is floodlighting. For now though there’s no shortage of bright lights on the field of play as the club boasts over 200 registered members according to Club Secretary, Seamus O’Grady. With around 38 senior players registered since the start

of the year there’s clearly no shortage of love for the game in Ballaghaderreen and surrounding areas. After our chat we watched the home side take on Castlerea Celtic and while Celtic just edged it, there were encouraging signs for Ballaghaderreen. This is certainly a club heading in the right direction and it helps that it has passionate and hard-working people steering it.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER

@dan_dooner

‘Trending’ is the new tracking back! THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner Never mind the Chinese, marketing and social media will destroy football long before any Superleague spending. I was dismayed this past week to see #pogba trending on Twitter. ‘Fantastic,’ I thought. Paul Pogba really needed his own hashtag ahead of the big game against Liverpool. The fact that it was advertised around the ground made it even more irritating. At

least it didn’t put the world’s most expensive footballer off his game… Elsewhere this week, one of my favourite sports clubs have decided to get rid of their historic and visually appealing crest in favour of something a little more, eh, marketable? I am of course referring to Juventus of Turin and their decision to switch to a simple ‘J’ in a bid to sell more merchandise. I really hope this doesn’t become a thing! (Some wags on Twitter have already suggested ‘4’ for Arsenal.) Back to Pogba (or should that be ‘#Pogback’) and one look at the French international’s latest hair do and the whole marketing

13 16

player. Fans buy Madrid kits thanks to Ronaldo, Barca kits for Messi and were snapping up United shirts due to Park Ji Sung and Wayne Rooney. Park’s retirement and Rooney’s diminishing influence perhaps explains United’s insistence on pushing Pogba forward. And so, fast forward 10 years from now as Manchester Chevrolet lead the Vladimir Putin Premier Division by ten points. #Pogba (now his name by law) is enjoying his swansong as the team’s talisman while the home fans Tweet messages of support onto the advertising boards around the pitch, completely oblivious to the action on the field.

People’s Champions of the Week

The week in numbers

campaign upon his return to Old Trafford will tell you all you need to know about the current state of football. Merchandising and brands have taken over and the fact that FIFA have introduced a 48-team World Cup proves how far this has gone. We couldn’t have another major tournament without the likes of the Dutch now could we? Back to Asia, where the Chinese are offering ridiculous amounts of money to questionable transfer targets and where it’s not unusual for kids to ‘support’ two or more teams. Real Madrid, Barcelona and Manchester United feature prominently and usually due to one

The Roscommon youth and senior teams will take part in the West Coast Challenge, which will take place in Rathkeale, Co. Limerick this weekend.

Roscommon Ladies church gate collection

Lucky for some! Dysart FC will be hoping to stretch their unbeaten run to 14 when they take on Glen Celtic this weekend.

The annual church gate collection for Roscommon Ladies GAA will take place this Saturday (21st) and Sunday (22nd). Posters can be collected from the county executive.

There are just sixteen days (if you’re reading this on Thursday) until Roscommon’s National Football League opener in Tyrone.

Badminton table quiz in Clarke’s Bar

Castlerea Community School bridged a nine-year gap last week when the Cadets reached the All-Ireland Basketball final. The girls defeated Colaiste Pobail, Setanta 44-39 in UL to set up a final date against Holy Child, Killiney from Dublin next Tuesday (24th) in Tallaght.

The sporting brief Final countdown! The County Roscommon 2017 Junior Singles final will be an all-Lisacul affair between Sean Jennings and Denis Creaton after Jennings came through a titanic struggle with St. Coman’s Oisin Naughton in Ballaghaderreen last Saturday. The Lisacul player took the first game, 21-14 before Naughton came storming back to take the second 21-20. The third game went to the wire but Jennings held on to win it 21-20. County Junior ‘B’ favourite, Gordon Nolan of Lisacul, had a real scare in St. Coman’s on Friday last during a three game win over Donal O’Connor from Curraghboy. Showing nice touches, O’Connor took the first 21-14 before Nolan

In the sporting diary .... Youth and Senior teams in darts action

JP Feeney, Martin Fleming and Thomas Concannon all hit two 180s last weekend in the Roscommon Darts League.

Handball

Manchester United’s Paul Pogba has endured a week to forget while his old club, Juventus, are going through an identity crisis.

upped the ante in the second and won 21-8. Nolan sealed the deal with a 21-16 win in the third. The St. Coman’s U-13 boy/girl combination of Rory Carthy and Cara Kennedy had a very impressive outing in the Connacht Gael Linn competition. They both racked up huge totals in their singles and doubles to be out of sight long before the finish and will now compete in the All-Ireland version in Ulster in two weeks’ time. Finally, a word of congratulations. Considering the fantastic year she has had it came as no surprise that the award-laden Fiona Tully was named as the Connacht Young Female Handballer of the Year for 2016 at the Connacht GAA Awards ceremony held in Ballyhaunis last Friday night. Well done Fiona and we wish you continued success!

Darts

and D’Altons and Claypipe and Ned’s played out draws.

Race for top 4!

Golf

Round ten of the Roscommon Darts League saw Dalton’s beat Flanagan’s (6-3), McDermott’s crush Creaton’s (9-0) and The Forge edge The Hollywood (5-4). An Bothar Rua still rule the roost at the top of the standings, well clear of Dalton’s in second spot. The league takes a break this weekend due to Inter-counties fixtures.

Pool

Play resumes! The Roscommon Town & District Pool League returned last weekend with Rattigan’s, The Holly Tree and The Hollywood enjoying wins over Charlie’s, Larry’s and Railway Bar respectively. Elsewhere, An Tobar

Tommy is tops! We start our weekly golf round in Carrick where Tommy Aherne won the recent 9-hole stableford with 23 points. Joey Casey was second on 22. To Athlone next where Frank O’Reagan took the recent gents’ competition with 39 points and Seamus Feeney won the Wednesday Open with 32 points. Claire Dowling took the Ladies’ 12-hole competition with 22 points, just one ahead of Kay Delaney in second place. Finally for this week we go to Boyle, where Terry Canning was victorious in the recent 18-hole stableford with 39 points. Vincent Egan was in second place on 38.

Ballyleague/Lanesboro Badminton Club have set the date for the annual fundraising table quiz, which will be held in Clarke’s Bar on Friday the 20th of January at 9 pm with lots of spot prizes on the night. It is hoped that there will be many teams of four on the night for this important fundraiser. If you don’t have a full team don’t worry, come along and organisers will find you some teammates – it’s part of what they do!

Sporting week on Tweet Street Paddy Barnes @paddyb_ireland He’s coming to collect that fine off @mickconlan11?? He accepts travellers cheques? (Boxer Paddy Barnes responds to news that Dr Wu of the AIBA was coming to Dublin.)

Independent.ie @Independent_ie FAI Chief John Delaney said €5m payment from FIFA following controversial handball by French int’l Thierry Henry was fully accounted for (Well that settles that then!)

pauliegunn @PaulGunnining1 You know, the fact that United struggled yesterday coincided with Pogba having his worst game in months could show how influential he’s become. (Your point is invalid because you didn’t use the Pogba hashtag. Try it, it’s fun!)

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

@SeamusDuke

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Roscommon set for extra FBD run-out When Kevin McStay spoke to the local media at length before Christmas, a place in the FBD League final was not on his priority list. However, after the first two rounds, it is 99% certain that Roscommon will face Galway in the final on Sunday week and in my humble opinion it is a bonus for the team to have an extra game before the league starts on February 2nd. The games against Sligo IT and NUIG have been an exercise in looking at players but Roscommon followers will have far more of an idea what the

likely starting line-up will be against Tyrone when the team lines out against Mayo on Sunday in Kiltoom. Kevin McStay has asked his full panel to be available for this game and with the exception of Sean Mullooly and a couple of injured players, Roscommon will have something close to their strongest team out on Sunday. There will have to be some room for experimentation and Roscommon need to persist with the search for the right midfield combination. Kevin Higgins played

well there last Sunday and we have also seen Cathal Shine and Tadgh O’Rourke. Cathal Compton and Thomas Corcoran are also candidates and I hear that young Corcoran has been playing well for DIT in recent games. He has been plagued with injury until recently. I would love to see him get some game time against Mayo. I am impressed with Roscommon’s attacking power and we seem to have a lot of forwards in good form. Further back, Conor Devaney has given the selectors food for

thought with his display last Sunday and there may be a ‘playmaker’ role for Seanie McDermott who is playing as well as ever. Thomas Fetherston is also doing well at full-back so there are options for the selectors. The hope would be that Mayo, who are fresh from their South African holiday, will field a strong team and that we have a competitive game. But we all know that when the ball is thrown in at Healy Park in Omagh on Sunday, February 2nd at 2 pm is when the real tests will begin.

Galway have been doing well in the FBD League and with the likes of Damien Comer and others to return, Kevin Walsh will be looking at the Division 2 campaign as a chance to be promoted to the top tier. Keeping an eye on our other prospective opponents, Tyrone were back to winning ways in Ulster putting up a big score against UUJ and Cavan’s great start to the season under new manager Matty McGleenan continued when they had a big win against an admittedly very weak Donegal side.

Brolly drops bomb on radio

Joe Brolly was on Miriam O’Callaghan’s RTE Radio 1 morning programme on Sunday morning alongside his niece Áine. Joe is probably the foremost GAA pundit now in the national media and he regaled listeners with details of his republican background and what life was like in Derry during the troubles. It was interesting stuff and great radio for sure but Joe fell down once again when talking about his fellow players. He told a story about being with Eoin ‘The Bomber’ Liston one weekend and he detailed the amount of pints that Liston drank before finally giving in. While it wasn’t exactly a character assassination, Joe never stopped to think that maybe Eoin Liston’s family or children might have been listening. That’s the problem with Joe. He has no empathy at all. He feels he can say what he likes about present and former players without understanding that what he says might actually be causing hurt. A number of Roscommon players, present and past have made that comment in recent weeks and months about Brolly. I have been in the company of hundreds of well-known (and not so well-known) GAA players over the years socially and there would be an unwritten rule that you wouldn’t ever report anything that went on. Not that anything serious ever did. But these people are amateurs and they deserve a private life. Joe Brolly might be a good pundit and very skilled with words but you can’t teach empathy or consideration. It’s not the first time that Joe was offside and it certainly won’t be the last.

Kevin McStay and Liam McHale look on as Roscommon overcome a tough NUIG challenge last Sunday in the FBD League. Pic: Andrew Fox

Taylor made for club football

Pat Lam believes that Connacht face the biggest game they’ve ever played this weekend when they take on Toulouse in the Champions Cup.

Connacht prepare for Toulouse showdown

There was mighty rugby action at the weekend. Connacht’s game against Zebre was a very strange encounter. Connacht started poorly but they steamrolled their way to a huge win scoring 66 points. Zebre are a very, very poor side. It is a wonder how they are allowed to compete in this competition as they are totally out of their depth. This weekend, Connacht play Toulouse in a

game that Pat Lam has labelled “the biggest game that Connacht have ever played”. Connacht have beaten Toulouse in France in the recent past but with their injuries and the fact that Toulouse have to win as well, it will take a miracle for Connacht to win it. However, in sport as we all know, you can never rule anything out. Leinster were ever so impressive last weekend again and they now have

some marvellous young players. They will be hard to beat in the knock-out stages. The game between Munster and Glasgow was a super contest. There wasn’t a whisker between them and for Munster to scrape through was a fantastic achievement. They can secure a home quarter-final with a win against Racing this weekend. They should be able to do that without too much bother.

I have to say that I liked Graham Taylor. He was always very dignified and calm and was the voice of reason in many a debate that I have watched on TV and listened to on the radio. In recent years he was a regular on Newstalk and his wisdom and football knowledge always shone through. Remember, he probably got a harder time from the British media than any other England manager in history and that’s saying something. The criticism he faced when he was in charge of the national team was savage and at times barbaric and grossly unfair. How he remained sane at the time is a miracle. But the amount of top class players who have come out to pay tribute to him since he passed away at the weekend is a measure of the respect that he enjoyed in the game. He made Watford as a club and will always be associated with Aston Villa too. His knowledge of the game is summed up by the stories of three players that he dealt with over his career. He bought John Barnes for a set of jerseys! He bought Dwight Yorke for £10,000 and sold him for £12.6 million. Finally, he bought probably Ireland’s greatest ever player, Paul McGrath, for £400,000 knowing that he had dodgy knees and a drink problem and he turned him into an Aston Villa legend. Graham Taylor was probably too nice a guy for the English soccer scene. May he rest in peace.

Pogba poor as rivals falter The Manchester United v Liverpool game was a bit of a damp squib last Sunday. The last 10 minutes after United equalised were exciting but there was a lot of very poor play before that. United’s big players and especially £90 million Paul Pogba were very disappointing. Not alone did the Frenchman give away a bizarre penalty he was lucky he wasn’t sent off. He

may become a great player but he has a lot to learn. The draw was not much good to either side in terms of the table or the title. Chelsea are continuing to look so strong while the best of the rest now look to be Spurs who are playing some great football at the moment. However their back up is not great and if Dele Alli or Harry Kane get injured they will be in trouble.

Former England manager Graham Taylor passed away at the age of 72 recently. He enjoyed successful spells with Aston Villa and Watford.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

SportsPeople

Third time unlucky for young Rossies! Hastings Cup Round 3 LONGFORD

2-13

ROSCOMMON

1-10

Roscommon slumped to their third defeat in this year’s Hastings Cup in Kenagh on Friday night last when they went down by six points to an impressive home side. Roscommon actually led by 1-3 to 0-1 af-

ter 14 minutes but after that Longford powered into the game and by half-time they led by 2-6 to 1-4. Points from Hubert Darcy and Eoin McCormack and a well taken goal from Cian McKeon saw Roscommon

get off to a dream start. But it went downhill after that. Gearoid Keenan received a black card shortly after the goal and then Longford came alive. Shane Kenny scored a fine goal. Some excellent points saw Longford level by the 25th minute and on the stroke of halftime, Aidan McElligot fisted home Longford’s second goal. Roscommon competed

well in the third quarter and points from Hubert Darcy, Aengus Lyons and Brian Kelly kept them in touch. But Longford were always able to keep their noses in front. Roscommon did keep plugging away but Longford kept Roscommon at bay to record a six-point win. Roscommon will now face Offaly in the Hastings Cup Shield semi-final this weekend. The game has not yet

been fixed. Roscommon: R Thompson; M Richardson, L Daly, K Beirne; J Brennan, J Duffy, M Cox; G Keenan, J Fetherston; E McCormack (0-3), C McKeon (1-1), B Stack; H Darcy (0-2), C Payne, B Kelly (0-1). Subs: C Murray for Keenan (b/c), A Murray, for Kelly, A Brogan (0-1) for Payne, J Casey for C Murray, A Lyons (0-2) for Cox, S Dowd for Daly.

Cian McKeon (pictured here in action for Boyle earlier in the year) hit a goal and a point as Roscommon went down to Longford in the Hastings Cup last weekend. Pic: Andrew Fox

Ladies lose out to Clare in opener CLARE

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ROSCOMMON

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Roscommon’s intermediate ladies opened their season with a tough challenge match against Clare last Sunday in Johnstown. The game was played in

Time is ticking for Cregg and Collins

three twenty minute periods and featured some good football played at at frenetic pace. Despite Roscommon pointing first, Clare came storm-

ing back and raced into a seven points to four lead at the end of the first period. The second period was almost the exact opposite with Clare getting the first point but this time it was the home team who went on a mini scoring spree with a goal and two points to edge ahead. Clare, however, re-

sponded to leave the sides level after the end of two periods: Roscommon 1-8 Clare 0-11. At this stage both sides made a number of changes and it was Clare who began to turn the screw and they forged ahead with three unanswered goals. Roscommon never gave up and con-

tinued to chip away at the scoreboard but Clare had the last laugh with a fourth goal near full-time which killed off the Roscommon challenge. Roscommon continue their pre-season with another challenge this Sunday afternoon against Longford in Lanesborough. After that

they begin their quest for National League honours on January 29th with an away fixture against Offaly then they face Tipperary at home on February the 5th. Meanwhile, the following coaching courses will take place in the next few weeks: January 22nd - Fundamentals course in Ballymoe for

St. Brigid’s GAA dinner dance

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Cathal Cregg and Neil Collins have yet to make up their minds as to whether they will commit to play for Roscommon in 2017. That’s according to Roscommon team manager Kevin McStay who was talking to the media following the team’s 1-17 to 0-14 win against NUIG in Ballyforan last Sunday. McStay said: “Both players are still making up their minds as I understand it. We are coming to a very important part of the season and the rest of the lads are pushing on. I am giving as much space as they want to make a decision. They have to want to play for Roscommon. They will have to have the passion and hunger and energy and I can’t drive that into any of them but I expect that they will make a decision soon, after all it is the third week in January,” he said Diarmuid Murtagh is out for “three or four weeks” having pulled a hamstring in the game against Sligo IT. Andy Glennon and Fergal Lennon are on the casualty list as well. The panel for the forthcoming National Football League will be announced on Monday, January 30th.

Pictured is the St. Brigid’s senior team which received their Roscommon SFC winner’s medals at the recent St. Brigid’s GAA dinner dance.

Pictured is the St. Brigid’s minor team which received their Roscommon MFC winner’s medals at the recent St. Brigid’s GAA dinner dance.

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 details have also been circulated to the clubs.

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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DEVANEY STARS IN NEW ROLE! Bonus territory as Rossies overcome gritty NUIG FBD Connacht SFL Round 2 ROSCOMMON

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NUIG

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It may not have been in the overall plan, but Roscommon footballers have almost certainly qualified for their third FBD League final in a row following this hard fought six-point win against a gritty NUIG side at Ballyforan last Sunday. Only a huge defeat against Mayo next Sunday in Kiltoom and an unlikely win for Sligo IT against NUIG will prevent Roscommon meeting Galway in the final in two weeks’ time. This was far more like it in terms of a competitive test for Kevin McStay’s men. Roscommon were always in control of the game but they never put the students away and it took a 70th minute goal from Shane Killoran to copper fasten the victory. But NUIG were very competitive and had some excellent players in their ranks, and remember they were without probably their most accomplished performer, Damien Comer. Positives from a Roscommon point of view? A super performance from Conor Devaney in a new position for him at left half-back. Top class displays also from

Seanie McDermott, Kevin Higgins, Donie Smith (first half) Cian Connolly and Niall Kilroy. There were some super points kicked throughout when Roscommon drove forward. The negatives? Roscommon kicked a total of 15 wides (10 in the first half) which would be costly against more seasoned opposition. There were a number of players on the NUIG team like Michael Daly, Owen Gallagher and Adam Gallagher who caused the Roscommon defence more than a few problems throughout. But having made 11 changes from the team that started against Sligo IT this was a very worthwhile workout and a very enjoyable game played on a perfect surface on a mild day. The sides were well matched in the first quarter and by the 14th minute it was 0-5 apiece with both sides scoring some excellent points. But the second quarter belonged to Roscommon and Kevin Higgins was especially prominent, scoring three excellent points from play and indeed Seanie McDermott got in on the act too landing a super point from

all of 40 metres with his right foot! Owen Gallagher and Michael Daly were impressive for the students who went in five in arrears at the break. Roscommon 0-11 NUIG 0-6. Roscommon brought on Ciaráin Murtagh and Tadhg O’Rourke at half-time and by the 52nd minute Roscommon led by 0-16 to 08 and looked to be pulling away. But the students rallied and four unanswered points saw the gap down to four with 66 minutes on the clock. Roscommon sub Donal Keane stopped the rot with a good point. Then we had a bizarre score for NUIG when Roscommon goalkeeper Mark Miley fisted the ball over his own crossbar when attempting to clear. But the issue was settled in the 70th minute. It was a seven man move and Fintan Cregg and Ciaran Kilcline were involved as Shane Killoran applied the finishing touches to a fine Roscommon goal. The excellent Michael Daly (son of Galway legend Val) completed the scoring in the 4th minute of injury-time with a point from 45 metres. “Much more of a test today and we needed that badly,” said Roscommon manager Kevin McStay after the game. “Last week wasn’t much good in terms of learning anything. We were delighted to win it today and I think that almost

Kevin Higgins rises up with Enda Tierney to contest possession. Picture: Andrew Fox

Niall Daly diligently intercepts a pass for Michael Daly. Picture: Andrew Fox

certainly puts us in the final. It was a good challenge for us today and we never really put NUIG away. But that will happen when you are trying out players in different positions. We made a lot of changes today and you lose your rhythm. “Overall I am very happy with the older lads like Conor Devaney, Seanie McDermott and Kevin Higgins. They showed great leadership out there today. They were a great example to the younger lads which is good. We kicked a lot of wides but this is the time of year to be doing that,” he said. “Next Sunday (against Mayo) is a big step up again. Mayo will have a lot of their first team out and that’s the challenge that we

are looking for. We are hoping to have everyone available for the game against Mayo. Sean Mullooly is the only one that is missing for Sunday so we will have a strong panel. “The aim is the build-up to the Tyrone match in the first round of the league. We made 11 changes from last week and we are looking at all the players to see how they are playing and every week we are learning something. It looks like we will have two more big games before the league so that’s good. NUIG were good today and they will give the Sigerson Cup a rattle if they play like they did at stages today,” he concluded. Roscommon: Mark Miley; David Murray, Tom Fetherston, Seanie McDermott

(0-1); John McManus, Niall Daly, Conor Devaney (0-2); Kevin Higgins (0-3), Cathal Shine; Shane Killoran (1-0), Niall Kilroy (0-3), Fintan Cregg; Donie Smith (0-2, frees), Kieran Kilcline (0-2), Cian Connolly (0-2). Subs: Tadhg O’Rourke for Shine (h/t), Ciaráin Murtagh (0-1, free) for Smith (h/t), Brian Murtagh for Murray (46), Ronan Stack for McManus (46), Paddy Brogan for Devaney (59), Donal Keane (0-1) for Connolly (black card, 61). NUIG: Tadgh O’Malley; Stephen Brandon, Eoin O’Donoghue, Aaron O’Connor; Kieran Molloy, Colm Kelly, John Donohue; Matt Barrett, Enda Tierney; Stephen Conroy, Michael Daly (0-3), Adam Gallagher (0-3, sideline kick, 2

frees); Ruari Greene, Owen Gallagher (0-3), Matt McClean (0-1). Subs: David McCormack for Barrett (18), Christian Bonner for Conroy (32), Kevin Finn (0-1, free) for Kelly (41), Seamus Moriarty (0-1) for McClean (51). Also: Mark Miley (0-1) Referee: John Glavey (Mayo)

Wides: Roscommon 15 (10 first half) NUIG 3 (2 first half)

Man of the Match: Conor Devaney (Roscommon)

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

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INSIDE: Devaney delights in new role! See page 55

Experiments to continue in Kiltoom FBD League Round 3 - Roscommon v Mayo on Sunday in Kiltoom at 2 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon v Mayo clashes are always worth a look. The result of this FBD League game will be quickly forgotten when the real action starts in a couple of weeks’ time but both sides will be hoping to get out a strong team to see where they stand ahead of the start of the National Football League. Before the FBD League even started, Roscommon manager Kevin McStay wanted to have a

full panel available and with the exception of a couple of injured players and Sean Mullooly who is unavailable for this weekend, he will have all his squad members there and it will be interesting to see what formation he opts for. In recent weeks, we have seen Thomas Fetherston tried at full-back, Conor Devaney in the half-back line, Seanie McDermott playing further forward and a number of other combinations tried in defence.

In the middle of the field, Kevin Higgins certainly put his hand up for inclusion with a good display last Sunday and many Roscommon fans would like to see Thomas Corcoran get a run in the middle of the field to see how he is playing. This would be an ideal test. Up front Roscommon have plenty of attacking talent. Donie Smith is playing very well at the moment and is surely close to getting a starting spot for the league and others such as Cian

Connolly, Ciaran Kilcline, Niall Kilroy and Shane Killoran have been prominent since the start of the year to add to the regulars such as the Murtaghs, Fintan Cregg, Enda Smith and others. Mayo have returned from their holiday in South Africa and while a few of their regulars were present for the win against Sligo IT last Sunday it is expected that Stephen Rochford will be fielding a very strong team on Sunday. Last weekend David Clarke,

Jason Doherty, Evan Regan and Alan Freeman lined out from the start with Cillian O’Connor and Donie Vaughan coming on as subs but we can expect to see the O’Shea brothers, Andy Moran, Patrick Durcan, Colm Boyle, Kevin McLoughlin and many other household names in Kiltoom on Sunday. Lee Keegan will not be there as his club Westport are in the All-Ireland intermediate semi-final this weekend. It would take an unlikely set

of circumstances (which would include a massive Mayo win in this game) to knock Roscommon out of the FBD League final but clashes between the two counties are always competitive and from a Roscommon point of view we will know much more about the possible make up of the team for the league when we see how the home side line out on Sunday. The game starts at 2 pm and the advice is to get there early as this fixture is always well attended.

John McManus retains possession despite going to ground under the challenge of Adam Gallagher and Owen Gallagher during Roscommon’s FBD League win over NUIG last Sunday. Roscommon face Mayo in Kiltoom this Sunday at 2 pm. Picture: Andrew Fox