2017 01 27 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

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

Out & About

27 January 2017

The Local Paper

VOLUME: 512

SEE PAGES 35 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 36

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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

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

Out & About

27 January 2017

The Local Paper

IN THIS WEEK’S ISSUE

Golf Links Road, Roscommon (090) 66 37620

JANUARY SALE NOW ON

Enda’s big plan: PAGE 39

Congratulations to Castlerea Community School who defeated Holy Child, Killiney in the Girls Subway All Ireland Schools Cup Final, in the National Basketball Arena, Tallaght last Tuesday. See page 17. Picture: ©INPHO/Gary Carr

Finn Electrical Goff Street, Roscommon Tel. 090 66 25573

JANUARY SALE CONTINUES Call in-store to see our special offers

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LANESBORO RD., ROSCOMMON Call 090 66 34372

Birthday Parties

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

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

WARD BROS QUARRY

FABRICS REDUCED TO CLEAR

Melanie has been maintaining her desired weight for 6 years.

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

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Forever after 2016

Lanesboro Road, ROSCOMMON ROSCOMMON

FRANCES’ The Square, Roscommon Telephone: 090 6626270

Before - 2009

After - 2010

Our big wedding guide: PAGES 21-29

Finishing Touches

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

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SALE NOW ON

Community school’s All-Ireland joy: PAGE 17

T: 090 64 78433

Standing up for the small farmer on CAP

Athleague, Roscommon – 090 6663385 ROSCOMMON TOWN – 090 6634465

CASTLEREA CHAMPS!

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

Tommie KElly Electrical

RURAL RECOVERY?

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Please see our Column on Page 2 AND Advert INSIDE

SEE PAGES 35 – 36

VOLUME: 512

WEB: www.gfurniture.ie

Hynes Pharmacy Castle Street, Roscommon.

Tel. (090) 66 34147

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople ROSCOMMON

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

Martina’s Fashions Ballygar, Co. Galway. Tel.: (090) 66 24561

SALE STARTING this Friday 27th January FOR ONE WEEK ONLY

50% OFF Ladies 3-piece Suits & Trousers Suits 20 - 50% OFF all other stock • Ladies Wear • Casual Wear • Catering from sizes 10-24 • Hats and Fascinators For Hire • Selection of Children’s Wear available

People WATCHING Goodbye CIA ... hello Roscommon? He’s already a regular visit to Mid and South Roscommon…and we can surely expect those visits to continue and maybe increase now that John Brennan’s role as Chief of the CIA has ceased. Mr. Brennan and his brother Tom attended a Gathering event in Kilteevan in 2013, accompanied by their father, Owen, who was born in the area. Members of the Brennan family, including the now former CIA Chief, have made regular visits to Kilteevan and the general Roscommon area for a number of years. John Brennan was in the news again

in recent days after he gave a blunt verdict on new US President Donald Trump. When President Trump made an address at CIA HQ the day after his inauguration, Mr. Brennan wasn’t impressed. Mr. Brennan said he was “deeply saddened and angered” by President Donald Trump’s “despicable display of self-aggrandisement” during the speech. Meanwhile, as he packs his bags at CIA HQ, John Brennan is reportedly very much in the market for a holiday home in Roscommon.

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

are hosting a

Landowners Appreciation Night on Saturday 28th January 2017 at Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon • BUFFET SERVED AT 8.30pm • MUSIC BY BILLY GARVIN Landowners, members, friends and supporters of Co. Roscommon Hunt are all welcome

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

Rent a Room Relief I am considering renting out two or three rooms in my home to tenants. I will continue to live in my home. Please advise me of the taxation implications. Can I rent a room in my house and receive tax-free rental income? Please advise me..

Dementia Carers Support Group meeting The first Dementia Carers Support Group meeting of 2017 takes place in the Melting Pot, Castle Court, Roscommon on Tuesday, January 31st at 7 pm. This partnership initiative by Family Carers Ireland, Western Alzheimer’s and The Alzheimer Society of Ireland meets on the last Tuesday of the month and features information and advice on a range of topics of interest to those living with dementia. Tuesday’s meeting will focus on Communication and Activities with guest speakers Margaret Owens, Day Centre Manager and Jane Butler, Care Assistant from Western Alzheimer’s. This promises to be a very informative evening with light refreshments served. All are welcome to attend.

CO. ROSCOMMON HUNT

John Brennan, (centre), pictured with his father Owen and brother Tom in Kilteevan in 2013.

Foodie fans…a date for your diary! Renowned chef Neven Maguire will be appearing in Kilronan Castle at the beginning of March.Neven will be hosting a Cookery Demonstration as a fundraiser for Ardcarne Community Childcare facility

and Cootehall National School. The event takes place on Wednesday, March 1st in Kilronan Castle and promises to be a very special occasion. We’ll have more details next week.

If you decide to rent a room (or rooms) in your home to private tenants, the rental income you earn will be exempt from income tax, provided this income from rent and related services does not exceed €14,000 in a tax year. The relief applies only to residential tenancies, not to short-term guest arrangements. The occupants must be using the room on a long-term basis. For example, renting a room to a student for the academic year is covered, but taking in guests for short breaks is not. You will NOT qualify for this tax relief if any of the following apply: 1. Your income from rent and related services exceeds €14,000 in a tax year. 2. You are renting the room in your home to your son or daughter. 3. You are renting the room to short-term guests 4. You are an employee or office-holder in a company, and the company pays you to allow clients to use the room in your home on an occasional basis Given that the rental accommodation you are providing is in fact a room in your home you are not covered by landlord and tenant legislation. Therefore, tenants living in your home are living under a Licensee Agreement, not a Tenancy Agreement. Should you decide to rent out a room in your home, it would be advisable to set out terms in writing to everyone is clear from the outset what is expected. Such Agreement should include such details as the rent payable and the manner in which it is payable i.e. by cash, cheque etc; the term of the tenancy; notice periods required should either party wish to end the arrangement; arrangements for payment of utility bills; rules regarding guests etc. This Agreement should be signed by both parties and a copy retained by each. 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.

Maureen Higgins, Carrowduff, Fourmilehouse, who recently graduated with a Bachelor Business Honours Degree from GMIT.

Pictured at a recent Award Ceremony at the University of Limerick is Rebecca Mooney, Kilteevan being presented with a UL 40 Entrance Scholarship Award by Professor Paul McCutcheon, Vice President of the University. Rebecca is a past pupil of Meánscoil Muire gan Smál, Roscommon and is now studying for a BA in Applied Languages.

Compiled by PAUL HEALY

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

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 info@bccsolicitors.ie

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople PUBLIC NOTICES

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK A column by Roscommon People editor

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS ROADS ACT 1993, SECTION 75 ROADS REGULATIONS 1994, ARTICLE 12 Roscommon County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to close the road referred to hereunder for the period and the reason specified. Road to be closed: The L-6030-18 from its junction with the L-6015-24 to its junction with the L-60301-0. Alternative Routes: Traffic will be diverted towards the L-6015-24, L1412-23, L-1412-0, L-1409-0, R-363-158 and L-60300 and visa-versa. Period of Closure: 13th February 2017 to 13th March 2017. Works will take place from 8am to 6pm. Reason for Road Closure: Laying of watermains along the public road as part of the Corracreigh Group Water Scheme Upgrade Contract. All necessary approach signage and diversion signage will be used at the required locations as per Traffic Management Plan. Residents will be contacted and notified directly by the Contractor in advance of the closure. Closures will be phased to ensure minimum disruption to locals. Map showing proposed closure/diversions are available on www.roscommoncoco.ie Objections may be made in writing to the undersigned in respect of the proposed temporary road closure to arrive not later than 4pm on Wednesday 1st February 2017. Ms Majella Hunt Director of Services Water Services Roscommon County Council Aras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98 26th January 2017

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

Byrne Carolan Cunningham Solicitors Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough & Galway

Tel: 090 647 8433 * MOTOR ACCIDENTS

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

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

paul@roscommonpeople.ie

BREAKING NEWS: Man starts new job… Friday Strange times… I watched it unfold live on Sky News on a laptop in my office, and it really did feel like I was watching a movie. Donald Trump was playing Donald Trump, a bit like OJ Simpson played OJ Simpson in spoof movies all those years ago. Remember that time Hugh Grant was cast as the British Prime Minister in a comedy? Honestly, if we were told a few years ago that a comedy/ drama was being made – based on the fictional rise to the Oval Office of an eccentric egomaniac – with Apprentice star and Miss Universe promoter Donald Trump playing himself – we’d have believed it. That would have been credible. What is still not easy to come to terms with is what we have now: Donald Trump as the actual President of America. No spoof movie. Anyways, he deserves to be President of America, because

The 45th President of the United States, Donald Trump

he won the election. Looking back, what’s really remarkable is how the Republican Party failed to prevent him getting their nomination, because a lot of them certainly didn’t want him there. But they were powerless, in the end, to stop the Trump march. So I watched an hour or two of it, Trump like a kid in a candy store, beaming with excitement, Obama gracious but with gritted teeth, Bill and

Hillary a little bit lost looking, George Bush in great form, presumably because he’s away from all this craziness now. President Trump didn’t put a foot wrong on day one of his presidency, and delivered his inauguration speech relatively impressively. It was a no-nonsense speech which suggests that he meant a bit more of what he said during the election campaign than many observers thought.

That, of course, will worry many people. He may or may not build actual walls in the future, but he’s already built a metaphorical wall around America. It’s ‘America first’ – and the rest of the world will just have to wait and see what the consequences will be. By the way, on Claire Byrne Live on RTE the other night, there was actually a debate about whether or not (a) Taoiseach Enda Kenny should go to the White House with shamrock on St. Patrick’s Day and (b) whether or not President Trump should be invited to visit Ireland. The debate was a waste of time. It’s obvious what will happen. The Taoiseach (Mr. Kenny or any Taoiseach) will be delighted to hand over the shamrock, and Mr. Trump will indeed be invited to visit Ireland. Whether Richard Boyd Barrett likes it or not. And the good news for Mr. Trump is that our Jobs Minister Mary Mitchell O’Connor has already said that she is willing to work with him!

Boris… Donald…now A true master add Willie and Andy! Sunday A lesson for our times? It’s no longer safe to leave anything important until you definitely know the outcome of whatever it is that’s at stake. You will recall that one night last year the world went to bed thinking Britain would remain in the EU, but woke up to be faced with Brexit. And many people across the world went to bed thinking Hillary Clinton had won the American Presidential election, only to wake up to a Donald Trump triumph. I suffered yet another example of this phenomenon on Sunday. I wasn’t in Kiltoom, where Roscommon and Mayo were meeting in the FBD League. Driving from the direction of Ballyleague towards home, I was tuned into the match on Shannonside Radio. When I joined the action, Willie Hegarty had bad news (Mayo ahead), then good news as Enda Smith fired home a great goal (Willie somehow managed to reference Donald Trump into his commentary on that score). By the time I reached home, Roscom-

mon were eight points ahead with five minutes to go. Both Roscommon and I were home and dry. I turned the radio off and went into the house to relax. It was, after all, a Sunday evening. The Sunday papers awaited. I would have bet a million euro that Roscommon had beaten their neighbours. Some four hours after the final whistle, I went searching for Roscommon’s winning margin. Eight points or more? The RTE website couldn’t oblige, which is a poor reflection on it. Twitter delivered the bombshell to me. It seems that Mayo scored three goals in the final minutes, including two from sub Andy Moran, who was still sitting on the bench when some spectators were beginning to head for their cars at Kiltoom. I was stunned. To Nigel Farage, Boris Johnson and Donald Trump, I now added Willie Hegarty and Andy Moran. But this was one seismic turnaround we could afford to smile about. Mayo’s smash-and-grab didn’t matter much. After all, Roscommon were already safely in the FBD League Final. And, if you’re going to lose to Mayo, sure it’s as well to lose to them in January!

Watching a gracious and more mature Ronnie O’Sullivan being presented with the Masters trophy for a record-setting seventh time, it really brought home to me how privileged we have been to see this sporting genius. This was snooker history and it was quite special to witness it. Given that he is in his forties now, it’s probable that O’Sullivan – notwithstanding his genius – will struggle to maintain his great standards when challenged by ‘Father Time.’ He will still win tournaments and may well add another world title or two to his haul, but there are lots of young pretenders on his trail and the magically talented O’Sullivan won’t be able to keep them at bay indefinitely. He could also proceed with his oftthreatened retirement from the game, though the suspicion now is that, with one eye on the passing years, O’Sullivan will try to claim as many titles and records as possible in the autumn of his great career. Sometimes we don’t fully appreciate great sports people when they are in their prime – we take them for granted. I adored Alex Higgins and have massive respect for Steve Davis, Stephen Hendry, Jimmy White and others, but I doubt if we’ll ever see a more natural and genial master of the green baize than O’Sullivan. Which is why we should savour him for as long as he is still playing and displaying his genius.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople

‘Roscommon businesses are not going to take rates changes lying down’ < SEAN MAHON, PRESIDENT, ROSCOMMON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

As every business owner in the county will know, the Valuation Office has

sent out revised Valuation Certificates. The revised valuations have caused significant concern and unease amongst the business owners in Roscommon and other

Ballymurray National School ENROLMENT EVENING Thursday 2nd February at 7.00 p.m.

Our enrolment / information evening for parents will be held on Thursday 2nd February 2017 at 7.00 p.m. We invite you to come along to view the school, including our brand new extension and to meet the teachers. We will be happy to answer any queries you may have.

TEL: 090 6661217

E.mail: principal1.ballymurrayns@gmail.com

Ballagh N.S. Kilrooskey , Co. Roscommon

Enrolment Evening Wednesday, 1st February 2017 from 6 – 7pm If you are considering enrolling your child in Ballagh National School for September 2017 or 2018, we invite you to come along with your child, to view the school and its facilities and meet the teachers.

If you have any queries, please feel free to call Ms. Audrey Nolan on

Tel: 09066 25884 Email: ballaghns1.ias@eircom.net Web: www.ballaghns.ie If this date does not suit, please contact the school to make alternative arrangements.

towns in the county. In response, Roscommon Chamber of Commerce organised a meeting of business owners to ascertain the nature and extent of the increases. Over 40 business owners attended a meeting in The Abbey Hotel on Monday night. It was clear from the meeting that over 90% of those in attendance had been notified of increased valuations and consequently increased rates bills. Anecdotally, it is understood that many more business owners had received notifications of increased valuations. The assurance given that the revaluation will not result in an overall increase in the rates collected is clearly a worthless assurance. There are many businesses whose rates or rateable valuation didn’t change and somewhere there were very minor reductions. However the total valuations put on all the business assets of all the business owners (if not appealed) would result in a massive increase in the total amount of rates collected by Roscommon County Council, utilising the indicative multiplier of 0.25. The fact that a significant number of businesses have not had a significant change in the amount of rates does not take from the fact that the valuations put on properties by the Rateable Valuation Office for all business premises are too high. It was clear from the meeting that the general feeling was that all the valuations were too high and did not have

due regard to the actual rents being paid in and around Roscommon for properties or the values of the properties. Further, the Valuation Office appeared to have regard for turnover but not profitability. The view of the meeting was that all the valuations should be appealed by the property owners - even those businesses where the rates have not significantly increased. Once these valuations are accepted (i.e. not appealed) they are fixed in stone for the next 10 years. The timeline for appealing the valuation is strict. The last date for submissions of representations/appeals is the 21st of February 2017. The Chamber is urging all business owners to appeal the proposed valuations. To this end they can seek assistance from local auctioneers who will be able to give them actual comparable rental figures for similar properties in the town or alternatively engage an expert firm to appeal their valuation. The Chamber is considering contacting one of the expert

companies who handle these appeals/submissions to deal with appeals on a bulk basis for the purpose of minimising the costs associated with the appeals. Any member of the Chamber or business in the town interested in participating in it should make contact with me in my capacity as President of Roscommon Chamber of Commerce or with any other member of the Executive. The critically important point is that if you do not appeal the proposed valuation within the time you will be fixed with that valuation into the future and just because it looks like your actual rates bill won’t increase in 2018 doesn’t mean that it won’t in fact increase and more importantly that it won’t increase significantly in the years ahead. It was clear from the meeting that the total rates bill for Roscommon was approximately €11.37 million and that based on the proposed valuations and indicative multiplier that a significantly greater sum was going to be collected in rates unless businesses appealed the valuation. Again the

Chamber is strongly urging businesses to appeal the valuations and not to be complacent because of the indication that your rates bill will not increase in 2018. Furthermore, the meeting urged Roscommon County Council to assure the businesses that the newly-rated businesses would be included in the calculation. If the new businesses are included then that should assist in ensuring that the multiplier is reduced. To this end the Chamber shall be organising a meeting with both Roscommon County Council and the county councillors, both of whom shall be responsible in determining the multiplier and whether or not newlyrated properties are taken into account in reducing the multiplier. It is clear that the Valuation Office have applied grossly inflated ‘theoretical’ rental values and inflated property values in determining the proposed rateable valuations. The meeting was clear in that businesses want the valuation office to prove where and how they

arrived at the proposed valuations. Further meetings will be organised. It was clear from the meeting that Roscommon businesses are not going to take the proposed revaluation lying down. The businesses in Roscommon have been paying more rates relatively speaking than all the surrounding counties for a long number of years. It is unfair on the businesses that they should be paying significantly more than businesses in adjoining counties and more importantly it is making it more expensive for businesses to start up in the county. Both the Valuation Office by setting the valuation so high, and the County Council, by setting the multiplier so high, are making the county less attractive to new businesses to set up in the county. If new businesses are discouraged from setting up by the continuation of the excessive rates bill on businesses then the existing disadvantages to setting up business in Roscommon are being compounded. It is time for the businesses to stand up for themselves and also time for the County Council to stand up for the county. The higher valuations will significantly affect our ability to compete for new industry and new business in the county in circumstances where the adjoining counties have significantly lower rates bills.

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

Enrol at innovative Ballagh NS Ballagh National School, Ballagh, Kilrooskey, is a mixed primary school located just 8km from Roscommon town. Our homely school community offers students a broad and holistic education that is firmly rooted in Christian values in a caring and nurturing environment. This sense of community is a central feature of life in Ballagh National School. We know each one of our students personally, thus ensuring that each child reaches their maximum potential. As a learning community we aim to prepare students for life beyond primary school. We have high expectations for all our students in all areas of school life. We pride ourselves on our interest in the STEM subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. This term our school will be collaborating with the Royal Microscopical Society (RMS) and National University of Ireland

Galway in a Science programme in which they will be providing us with microscope activity kits. Our school children will benefit from this fun and engaging programme and will get to experience working in our own school laboratory, enabling all children the chance to do some experiments like ‘real life’ scientists. We find ourselves in the unique posi-

tion of becoming one of only 220 schools nationally to have achieved Digital School of Distinction status. On a daily basis, technology is integrated into teaching and cooperative group work sessions. Our students are safe and happy. They are encouraged to develop their own individual talents – art, music, song, drama and dance all of which are an integral part of cultural life in Ballagh. Our talents were exhibited in our recent Christmas school production of the “Magical Christmas Jigsaw”. Our diligent Parents’ Association recently arranged a wonderfully successful talent competition entitled “Talent by the Shannon.” Students can participate and compete in a broad range of sports and physical activities. We are delighted with our recently completed new state of the art Multi Use Games Area and Astro Turf Pitch. A warm welcome awaits all.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople

Sneak peek of ŠKODA KODIAQ at Michael Moore Skoda in Athlone

THE CORE CHURCH STREET, ROSCOMMON an outreach of the Church of Ireland

www.facebook.com/pg/roscommoncore Activities coming up soon 1. Video club – Come together with friends to watch short videos of historical and cultural importance. Tea and refreshments served. SATURDAY AFTERNOON 2pm – 4pm

The much-awaited ŠKODA KODIAQ will be making its way to Michael Moore Skoda in Athlone for a special preview on the 26th, 27th, 28th & 30th of January. The KODIAQ will be the first large 7-seat SUV offered by ŠKODA and offers an impressive combination of powerful design, generous space, great functionality, state-of-the-art assistance systems and innovative connectivity solutions.

2. Friendship Circle – Looking to socialise on a Sunday afternoon? Join us for games, music, a bit of craic over a cup of tea. SUNDAY AFTERNOON 4pm – 6pm 3. English Conversation – Learning English? Come practice your English speaking skills through conversation and fun activities. MAY 2017 (date to be confirmed)

THE CORE CAN ALSO BE RENTED ON A SESSIONAL BASIS All activities are in a safe & warm environment with appropriate volunteers in place For further details contact: Alastair Donaldson (Chairperson)

(090) 666 5413 or (087) 637 3898

At the CORE of the Community

Speaking about the upcoming preview event, Michael Moore said: “It’s rare that we see such excitement about a new car but the buzz around the arrival of the new KODIAQ already has been unbelievable. “We’re really delighted to be able to offer the people of Westmeath, Roscommon and surrounds the chance to get up close and personal with the KODIAQ in advance of its launch to the Irish market in March and I’m quite certain they will be impressed. “We’re looking forward to welcoming customers new and old to our showrooms on the 26th, 27th, 28th & 30th and will be delighted to give them individual demonstrations of all the car’s fantastic features.” About the KODIAQ The KODIAQ offers a spacious interior and possesses the largest boot within its class with a volume of up to 2,065 litres. The KODIAQ also includes over thirty simply clever features that offer practical and convenient assistance to everyday life, such as split folding and length-adjustable rear seats as standard, the optional third row of seats, door-edge protection, electric child safety locks and the much-loved Superb model feature of ŠKODA umbrellas fitted to the front door pockets from the mid-spec Ambition model. For further information, visit: www.michaelmooreskoda.ie <http:// www.michaelmooreskoda.ie> or contact Keith or Eamon on 0906403555 for more details.

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Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Roscommon People Friday 20 January 2017

NewsPeople

No Mortgage to Rent transactions completed here since 2012 New figures from the Housing Agency showing that, at the end of 2016, no Mortgage to Rent transactions have been completed in the past four and a half years in County Roscommon and only 217 nationally, indicates the need for a radical shake-up of the scheme, according to the Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Galway, Eugene Murphy. Deputy Murphy also highlighted the fact that only one Mortgage to Rent transaction was completed in County Leitrim and County Longford during the same time period. The Fianna Fáil TD pointed out that in County Roscommon only three Mortgage to Rent transactions were active by the end of 2016, nine were ineligible, none were complete and 29 were terminated. “When the Mortgage to Rent scheme was launched by the previous FG/Labour government in 2012, it was held up as a safety net to keep families deep in mortgage arrears in their homes. Since then, the scheme has turned into a bureaucratic nightmare

and delivered a paltry return. “The main banks in Ireland have been involved in just one-third of the 217 completed transactions, with AIB, for example, concluding just one transaction in the last four and a half years. In contrast, Pepper, acting on behalf of so-called ‘vulture funds’, has been involved in 107 of the 217 completed cases,” said Deputy Murphy. “It has been clear for some time now that this scheme

is simply not working. With over 43,000 family home mortgages currently in arrears for more than a year, the lack of support for the Mortgage to Rent scheme by the Government and many of the main lenders is very apparent and offers little hope to those deep in mortgage arrears.” The TD called for a major overhaul of the scheme, including putting it on a statutory footing.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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

Pat Dennehy and Paddy Cummins pictured in Kiltoom at Sunday’s FBD thriller between Roscommon and Mayo. Picture: Andrew Fox

Call for dredging of River Shannon to start Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice has called for dredging of the River Shannon to commence. He told the Roscommon People: “With the new Dáil term started, 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 clear-

ance 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 pledged to continue to work hard on this issue at Dáil Eireann level. He said people cannot be living in fear of more flooding which may put them out of their homes or destroy their land or property.

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.

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Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople Dr. MALGORZATA (Margaret) WAWRZYNEK, PhD

NEW GP PRACTICE Abbey Street Medical Centre Roscommon Town John Devaney, Chairman of Roscommon Credit Union and Pat McDonald, Roscommon Credit Union, pictured making a presentation to Kevin McDonagh in recognition of the fifty years of service he has given to the Roscommon Credit Union. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon Lions Club’s Inaugural Charity Walk Helping to construct Safe Centres for Syrian refugees in Lebanon Roscommon Lions Club is organising its Inaugural Charity Walk fundraiser (5km/10km) for the construction of Safe Centres for Syrian refugee children in Lebanon and for other Lions Club charities on Sunday, 9th of April (Psalm Sunday) at 2 pm from Hannon’s Hotel, Roscommon Town. Registration is €10/individual and €20/family. Lebanon is much smaller than Ireland with a population of 4.5 million but it has around two million Syrian refugees. Of the two million refugees half of these are children of 3-8

years of age who have been traumatised by six years of Civil War in Syria. 300,000 of them do not have any schooling. Under the leadership of the Norwegian Lions Clubs, Safe Centres are being constructed in Lebanon, modelled on UNICEF Safe Centres, which will accommodate children and provide basic education and health care to them. The Safe Centres will act as primary health centres with resident psychologists and nurses. Safe Centre supervisors will provide instruction to prepare children for schooling in public schools. The cost of building a Safe Centre is approximately €100,000 – the cost of running a centre for a year is about the same. Each Safe Centre comprises of a number of classrooms, nutrition and health centre and a play area. It takes 10-12 personnel to run a centre

Lions International Safe Centres under Construction In Northern Lebanon.

each day, taking in two shifts per day of 200-300 children per shift. While Lions Clubs in the UK and Scandinavia are also fundraising for these centres, Lions Clubs in Ireland have set a target of funding the construction and running of one centre. Noel Connolly, Roscommon Lions Club said: “As is the case with all Lions Club charity events – whether locally nationally or internationally – 100% of the funds raised will go directly to the project. “We welcome any support we can get and would encourage the entire community and county to take part in the event. The walk will be very much a family event supporting destitute Syrian families in the Bekaa Valley Northern Lebanon.” For more information follow the event on Roscommon Lions Club facebook page.

Located between Abbey Meats and Hills Shoe Repairs

Public and Private patients welcome Free Car Park available at rear of surgery

Phone: 087 4039793 Dr. Wawrzynek wishes to sincerely thank Dr. Robinson and the local GPs for their good wishes and continued support

Afternoon Bridge in Boyle Bridge sessions will be held in Boyle Family Resource Centre on Tuesday afternoons from 24th of January at 2 pm-5 pm. These sessions are for people who are bridge players – they

are not beginner’s classes. To register your interest or for more information please contact Boyle Family Resource Centre (Family Life Centre) on 0719663000.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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Hopkins visits refugee facility in Monasterevin Senator Maura Hopkins has visited the Hazel Hotel in Monasterevin along with two community representatives to view the Emergency Reception and Orientation Centre that has been operating there for a number of months. This centre is similar to the one planned for Ballaghaderreen, where about 80 Syrian refugees are due to be based from March.

Senator Hopkins said it was a productive visit “as we learned more about how the centre operates and we got in-depth information on the healthcare and educational services which are provided to these Syrian people.” She continued: “It is very important, I believe, that we learn from other similar centres such as Monasterevin in order to ensure that we take from

The town of Ballaghaderreen, where about 80 Syrian refugees are due to be based from March. Picture: Andrew Fox.

their experiences and deliver the necessary resources and services for these people and our local community. “Similar to that proposed for Ballaghaderreen, a group of local service providers was established in the centre in Monasterevin with representation from HSE, schools, Educational Training Board (ETB), County Childcare Committee, Volunteer Programme who met initially on a very regular basis. This was identified by them as being very important in order to assist with service planning and ensure improvements and extra resources are provided as necessary.” Senator Maura Hopkins concluded by saying that she is working very closely with An Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Frances Fitzgerald along with Minister of State for Justice, David Stanton to ensure additional services and resources are put in place to support these people who “have been through terrible experiences and to support our local community.”

Te rms a n d C o n d i ti o n s a p p l y

Conﬁdential Cancer Support Group Roscommon Cancer Support are running a confidential support group for people affected by a cancer diagnosis to provide self-care and wellbeing. This support group will be held in Ballinagare Community Centre every

second Friday of the month from 7 pm-8.30 pm, starting from the 10th of February. For more information contact the centre on 094-9870777 or Roscommon Cancer Support on 090-6625898.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople PUBLIC NOTICES

Draft Ballaghaderreen Local Area Plan 2017-2023 Roscommon County Council is due to publish a draft Local Area Plan in March 2017. It is important that the views and opinions of the public are taken into consideration in the preparation of the draft. In this regard, a public consultation workshop is being held. PUBLIC CONSULTATION DATE, TIME & VENUE DRAFT BALLAGHADERREEN LOCAL AREA PLAN Date Venue Wednesday 15th February 2017 Community Resource Centre, The Shambles, Market St, Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon.

Time

7.00 p.m.

Have your say on: • Social and Community Facilities • The Economy and Jobs • Infrastructure and Services • Tourism • Sporting Provision • Built and Natural Heritage • Zoning and Design For more information, please contact the Forward Planning Unit, Roscommon County Council on 090 66 37175. Mr. Martin Lydon A/Director of Services Planning & Enterprise 27th January, 2017

Haemochromatosis Awareness: Information Meeting in Roscommon IRON OVERLOAD – TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING! A campaign to reduce the numbers of people suffering unnecessarily from Haemochromatosis is being carried out by the Irish Haemochromatosis Association. As part of this campaign an Information Meeting has been organised in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on Wednesday, 1st of February at 7.30 pm. The speakers are Consultant Physician, Dr. Aongus O’Loughlin and Staff Nurse, Olive Arnold from

Roscommon Hospital. Known as the ‘Celtic Mutation’, Ireland has the highest levels of the condition in the world. Haemochromatosis is a genetic disorder where the body absorbs excessive iron from the diet and stores it in the body. The IHA is encouraging people who are suffering from symptoms such as chronic fatigue, joint pain, diabetes, irregular heartbeat, enlarged liver and loss of sex drive to consult their GP. A simple blood test to check your iron status can confirm or rule out iron overload. A genetic test confirms the diagnosis. The accumulated iron affects the liver,

Supporters in Roscommon to help Kiss Goodbye to MS Multiple Sclerosis Ireland is calling on supporters in County Roscommon to Kiss Goodbye to MS from 17th of January until 14th of February and to help raise funds for MS research and essential services for more than 9,000 people with Multiple Sclerosis. Supporters are asked to ‘go red’ and to Wear, Dare and Share: to wear red or hold a ‘red day’, dare to get sponsored for an MS Ireland sky dive, and share with friends and family to spread the word. Please text SMOOCH to 50300 to donate €4 and nominate others to take part. For more information visit www.kissgoodbyetoms.ie Actress Aoibhinn McGinnity is bringing her support to the Kiss Goodbye to MS campaign: “I’m delighted to be part of this effort to raise funds for MS research and help people living with MS. It’s an important campaign for people and family members affected by MS, which is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. Please go red, and wear, dare and share to support them.” MS is the most common debilitating neurological condition affecting young adults in Ireland. Three times more women than men are diagnosed with MS. There is no cause or cure. MS Ireland joins 11 other MS organisations throughout the world as they encourage the public to Kiss Goodbye to MS and raise money for MS research and vital services. MS Ireland is the national services, information and research organisation supporting the MS community. Ava Battles, Chief Executive, MS Ireland comments: “Kiss Goodbye to MS is about raising awareness of Multiple Sclerosis among young adults and supporting MS Research as well as funding vital services that reduce the impact of MS including physiotherapy, counselling, and newly diagnosed seminars. The campaign is also, significantly about hope, enabling and empowering people with MS to live the life of their choice to their fullest potential.” RIGHT: Irish actress Aoibhinn McGinnity gives her support to the national campaign.

heart, pancreas, endocrine glands and joints, leading to impaired function of these organs and eventually to disease and organ failure. As many as one in 83 Irish people are predisposed to iron overload while one in five are carriers of the gene. The treatment is simple and effective. It involves the removal of blood and is similar to blood donation. If diagnosed and treated before organ damage occurs, the person will have a normal life expectancy. If you have any concerns about the condition please call the Irish Haemochromatosis Association support group on 01-8735911.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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‘Effective Communication With Your Teenager’ A TALK BY JOHN LONERGAN IN ROSCOMMON COMMUNITY COLLEGE Roscommon Community College is delighted to introduce John Lonergan, former Governor of Mountjoy Prison, as he shares his philosophy on parenting on Tuesday, 31st of January at 7.30 pm. A distinguished contributor to social commentary in Ireland, John has frequently been described as a born storyteller and RCC is delighted to extend a warm welcome as he appears as

keynote speaker during Literacy Week celebrations. Presenting a talk to parents entitled ‘Parenting – the Challenges and the Rewards’, the focus will be on constructive communication, as Lonergan explores how to build a more positive and affirming relationship with our teenagers. John entered the prison service in 1968 and in the years that followed, he saw human nature at its worst – and often, unexpectedly, at its best. In what is a reflective and awareness-raising look at parenting, John never fails to engage his audience with plenty of humour and self-deprecation, as he shares our

foibles and our fears on the “demanding, challenging, responsible, complicated and never-ending” job of parenting. Lonergan has put his philosophy of parenting into a book, ‘Parenting: Raising Your Child in Ireland Today’, with all royalties going to Barnardos. It focuses on the pre-teen and teen years but it is recommended that the communicative approach he advocates should really start “the day the baby is born.” All Roscommon Community College parents are invited to attend what promises to be a stimulating and thought-provoking talk on Tuesday, 31st of January at 7.30 pm. We look forward to seeing you there!

Pictured on right is John Lonergan, former Governor of Mountjoy Prison

Ballaghaderreen Healthcare Modules Information Session An information session on Healthcare modules will take place in the Community Resource Centre, The Shambles, Ballaghaderreen on Friday, 27th of January at 11 am. GRETB will be outlining course modules. For further information contact the Resource Centre on 094-9862565.

Ballaghaderreen Mental Health Association says ‘thank you’ Ballaghaderreen Mental Health Association would like to thank the parishioners of the Fairymount, Frenchpark, Tibohine and Loughglynn areas who kindly supported their recent Church Gate Collection. A total of €553 was raised. The association would like to thank the parishioners of the Lisacul area who raised a total €163 and parishioners of the Ballaghaderreen area who raised €441. Ballaghaderreen Mental Health Association is always looking for new members. Please contact Community Resource Centre on 094-9862565 for more information.

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Lanesboro Triathlon Club 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, Lanesboro. The evening is a chance to meet existing members and find out more about the club and one of Ireland’s fastest growing sports. 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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Jack and Brian Greene pictured at Sunday’s FBD game in Kiltoom between Roscommon and Mayo. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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From My Kitchen Table MIRIAM KERINS

Sun, sea and Vee-Jan Sarnies in beautiful Puerto Rico! A stressful 2016 led me to feel it was time I got a bit of a break. Hubby’s not really a holiday person, in that it wouldn’t bother him if he never got a bit of sunshine, but I’m the opposite; and, despite being allergic to the aul rays, (factor 50 gets slathered over me daily), I convinced myself that only a week basking in the sun’s vitamin D would appease my craving for what had now become something akin to a substance-related disorder. In short, I needed my fix and if I was going to get it I’d have to make an executive decision and book that holiday. And so, that’s how, one rainy Roscommon afternoon, I found myself, umbrella dripping, mascara running, hair looking like the comb-over that straddles Donald Trump’s scalp, inside the offices of East West Travel waffling the ears off poor Martina and enquiring as what she had on offer by way of a bit of January winter sun. Now as someone who’s pretty computer literate, I didn’t need to pop into Martina – I could have gone online and booked it myself, especially as I knew where I wanted to go and stay; i.e. the Puerto Plata apartments in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria. Now it’s not five-star accommodation, but the studio apartment we booked had a spectacular view of the harbour, was spotlessly clean, (I’m a neat freak, so this was important), in fact, the entire facilities were spic and span, the staff were very friendly and helpful and the clientele were of the

may not necessarily work out the way you planned and this is when you could end up getting well and truly snookered! I will say I did arrange my own travel insurance because I find shopping around for cover can be cheaper, and in my case, it certainly was. Now folks, while we had an absolute ball, while the weather was a sizzling 30 degrees most days, (lowest was 24 degrees), while we never saw a cloud in the sky, while we went on some wonderful trips and explored the island by bus, and while the entire experience was one I can’t wait to repeat, I’m probably the only person to ever come home from such a wonderful adventure without piling on the pounds. Why? I’m a vegan, and they just didn’t get it in Puerto Rico. In one restaurant in You see for me folks, when booking a package holiday, I find using an experienced the beautiful resort of Meloneras, whose travel agent like East West Travel, (Stonecourt, Roscommon town), so much more lunch menu listed ‘Vegan Baguette’, reassuring, because they’re the licensed experts, governed by the Commission for the waiter insisting I told him whether I Aviation Regulation bonds. wanted “The vee-jan meat in your veemore mature kind, as in no annoying or an outgoing president refuses to jan sandwich cooked medium or rare hell-raising teenagers dive-bombing hand over the helm and squat in the Senora?” Seriously? Oh yeah…in the into the pool. Bliss! State House, a la Gambia’s defeated land of steak, shellfish and cheese, I had You see for me folks, when bookPresident Yahya Jammeh! to ask this baffled waiter if he or the chef ing a package holiday, I find using And, even though it’s an ‘old school’ knew what vegan meant? They hadn’t a an experienced travel agent like East way of doing things, I personally prefer breeze, and, studying me as if madness West Travel so much more reassuring, the extra bit of reassurance that booking ran through me like a recessive gene, because they’re the licensed experts, with a trusted, face-to-face source gave then, looking at hubby with unmitigated governed by the Commission for Aviame. Yep, everyone said I was “mad… sympathy, very kindly offered to “cook tion Regulation bonds, and that aspect sure booking online is cheaper; you get it with the meat and remove it,” before it alone can offer a holidaymaker so better deals,” but it’s my experience was served to me. Aaagh! And this folks much more security and peace of mind that this isn’t always the case because is how I ended up living on tomatoes, in the event that say, there’s a hitch with arranging different elements like onions, figs and orange juice…oh and your accommodation, you get stranded, flights, transfers and accommodation gin –thank God for Hendrick’s gin!

Get ready for a dystopian Trumpian nightmare! From this day forward…the future is orange… and no I’m not talking about the lovable Hughie on DWTS; he’s a sweetheart. I’m talking about Vladimir Putin’s BFF, Donald Trump; the low rent reality star who listened to some self-serving, parasitic sycophant when they placed the idea into that rat’s maze he wears on his head that he had a shot at becoming POTUS! And, last week, as the Oompa Lumpa took up position in the White House as the weakest, most pathetic commander-in-chief the world has ever witnessed, conceitedly playing out the role of President on Twitter, I sat dumbstruck as, in his usual graceless manner, he threw shade at his predecessors by insulting their achievements and offered himself as a kind of Christlike saviour sent to rid America’s cities of their “carnage.”

In short, the man who takes repulsive to a whole new level continued to get it wrong as his inauguration speech did absolutely nothing to set mine, or other worried human beings’ minds at ease. The angst was further reflected in the lacklustre attendance at this joker’s inauguration, leading his camp to warn, though I’d suggest threaten, the media would pay a “big price” for allegedly lying about the size of the turnout, defaming an entire group of professionals, (of which I am one), with his slanderous comment reported in the Irish Independent and several media outlets, by branding journalists as being among “the most dishonest human beings on earth.” Can someone wake me when this 70-year-old, belligerent buffoon of a man-child grows up?

Well done Tesco!

’s upy a strong space in Ireland Despite the fact that Tesco occ t it’s a popular chain, for various fac retail market and despite the ir reasons, I’m not a major fan. their due and congratulate the That said, I have to give them ate scheme, targeted at senior sion innovative and highly compas ess, currently being piloted in shoppers and those with an illn relaxed checkout.’ I love it! ‘the one of its Scottish stores, i.e. elderly dad shops regularly at As a concerned daughter whose es, and, as my darling dad is nch one of Tesco’s larger Dublin bra to chat, take things at a slower s a friendly gentleman who love rushing to keep up with others, I into red ssu pre l fee not eme pace and urge them to roll out this sch applaud Tesco’s innovation and in across all stores. the fourth oldest population In addition, as Roscommon has ling isolated and vulnerable, fee the country, with some seniors eckout would definitely benefit e/ch the setting up of a slower lan m to get out a bit more and the ng agi our enc rs, ppe sho many p. sho y the ile make friends wh

newsbriefs Castlerea CCE session The next session of Castlerea CCE is Friday, 3rd of February, at Doherty’s. The session starts at 9.30 pm. We will have box, flutes, pipes and fiddles. All welcome.

Monster Table Quiz in Cuisle The Roscommon Ploughing Association is hosting a Monster Table Quiz in Cuisle, Donamon on Friday, February 10th at 9 pm sharp. Tables of four will cost €40 and there will be a range of spot prizes on the night. Refreshments will be served and all are most welcome to attend.

Community Games meeting in Hannon’s A Roscommon/Kilteevan Parish Community Games meeting will take place on Wednesday, February 1st in Hannon’s Hotel in Roscommon town at 8 pm. All are welcome.

25 Card Drive in Clarke’s Bar, Lanesboro Clarke’s Bar in Lanesboro will play host to the Anthony Healy Memorial 25 Card Drive on Sunday, January 29th 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.

Lough Key Forest Park shortlisted for award Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Galway Eugene Murphy has extended his congratulations to all the staff and management at Lough Key Forest and Activity Park in Boyle as the centre is in contention to win a prestigious prize in the 2017 Irish Tourism Awards. Lough Key is one of five areas in the country who have been shortlisted in the ‘Best Leisure Tourism Innovation’ category. The north Roscommon facility is up against Westport House in Mayo, Powerscourt Estate in Wicklow, Fortress Spike Island and the Commissioners of Irish Lights. “Lough Key Forest Park is really one of the jewels in the crown of County Roscommon tourism and being shortlisted for this prestigious award is recognition of the terrific range of services and facilities which are now available in Lough Key Forest Park” Deputy Murphy said in a press statement. The winner will be announced at a Gala Event in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road, Dublin on February 3rd.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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Celebrations as Castlerea Community School defeated Holy Child, Killiney in the Girls Subway All Ireland Schools Cup Final, in the National Basketball Arena, Tallaght last Tuesday. Pictures: ©INPHO/Gary Carr

Castlerea celebrates All-Ireland basketball win < DAN DOONER

The basketball stars of Castlerea Community School were given a big welcome back to town on Tuesday evening after they overcame Holy Child from Killiney 45-40 after overtime in the All-Ireland Subway Schools U-16C Final. It had looked as though Holy Child would snatch victory as with only six

seconds remaining on the clock in normal time they led by two points. Step forward Most Valuable Player Sandra Keane who stayed calm to provide a lay-up and send the game into overtime with the final score at 36 apiece. This was a thrilling affair throughout as it swung back and forth on the court and scoreboard. Castlerea had a number of top class performances

with Lisa O’Rourke, Keane, Laura Fannon and Holly Hopkins to the fore as the game went into the last quarter. Vital steals from Sandra Keane coupled with brilliant work at the board from O’Rourke set Joe Henry’s charges up for the crucial scores which sealed the All-Ireland title and sent the travelling Castlerea supporters into raptures. Castlerea Community School: Lisa

O’Rourke (18), Megan Keaveney, Sandra Keane (15), Holly Hopkins (2), Tara Keane (2), Fiona Kilkenny, Clodagh McFadden, Ailish O’Rourke, Clara Neary (6), Laura Fannon (2), Ciarri Harkin. MVP: Sandra Keane. * Cllr. Liam Callaghan congratulated all involved. He said: “This is a great achievement for the girls involved, the school, teachers, parents and

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

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

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

team coach, Joe Henry.” Cllr. Callaghan said it was a very good week for Castlerea Community School following the All-Ireland basketball success and Transition Year students winning a Special Merit award at the Volunteer Awards in Roscommon recently. “I want to commend school principal Eileen Ryan and all the staff at the school,” he concluded.

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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Visit us now or call 090 666 5524! Rosmed Pharmacy, Golf Links Road. John Ryan and Dave Gleeson founded Blackberry Hearing last year to address the shockingly high cost of hearing aids. Providing quality hearing solutions at about 40% of the price of other retailers has meant that hundreds of people, who may otherwise have been unable to afford hearing aids, have had their lives changed for the better.

www.blackberryhearing.com

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FreeHearing HearingTest Test Free bookings now now being being bookings taken takenfor forJanuary 15th October.

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Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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St. Mary’s NS KNOCKCROGHERY Tel. 090 66 61963

Open Evening on WEDNESDAY 8th FEBRUARY 2017 from 6.00 – 8.00pm St. Mary’s National School invites you to come along with your child to view the school, its facilities and meet the teachers. We will be happy to answer any queries you may have. If this date does not suit, please contact the Principal to make alternative arrangements. St. Mary’s N.S., Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. Tel: (090) 6661963 Email: knockcroghery.ias@eircom.net Website:knockcrogheryns.scoilnet.ie/blog/

Glinsk N.S.

Glinsk, Via Castlerea, Co. Galway

ENROLMENT EVENING

On Monday 20th February, 2017 from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Parents are invited to come along with their child to view the school, its facilities and meet the teachers. We will be happy to answer any queries you may have.

Minister asks for ‘Culture Team’ to be set up in Roscommon < PAUL HEALY

The Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD, has met with Roscommon Chief Executive Eugene Cummins to discuss the roll out of Creative Ireland Programme/Clár Éire Ildánach in Roscommon. Creative Ireland is the Government’s Legacy Programme for Ireland 2016 Centenary. It is a five-year all-of-government initiative, from 2017 to 2022, which at its core is a wellbeing strategy which aims to improve access to cultural and creative activity in every county across

the country. In preparation, Minister Humphreys met with all local authority CEOs last week. Creative Ireland will prioritise children’s access to art, music, drama and coding; enhance the provision of culture and creativity in every community; further develop Ireland as a global hub for film and TV production; empower and support our artists and drive investment in our cultural institutions; further enhance our global reputation abroad. As part of Creative Ireland, a culture team will be established in every county, which will be tasked with developing a culture

Heather Humphreys, T.D., Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and Roscommon Chief Executive, Eugene Cummins.

plan for that county. Each Local Authority will appoint a co-ordinator for the programme, and a public workshop will be held to

share the Creative Ireland plans and invite input from the public. Minister Humphreys said she has asked Eugene

Cummins to establish a Culture Team. The date for a Roscommon workshop will be announced in the coming weeks.

Roads funding Kilteevan National School welcomed ENROLMENT EVENING Wednesday 1st February, 2017 7-8pm

Phone: 094 9655257 E-mail: glinskschool@gmail.com Website: www.glinskns.ie If this time is inconvenient for you, please contact the school to make alternative arrangements.

Kilteevan NS is a 2-teacher school in a lovely quiet rural location with a great sense of community, only 5 minutes drive from Roscommon town. We offer: • Low pupil:teacher ratio • Extensive extra-curricular activities including football, soccer, hurling, swimming, IT, needlework, art, drama, music and lots more • After-school facility: Tír na nÓg Childcare will operate a collection and care option from our school from September. Further information available at our open evening…

Enrolment forms available on the evening or alternatively from the school office. Tel: 090 6625936

E-mail: kilteevanns@eircom.net

Fine Gael Senators Maura Hopkins and Frank Feighan have welcomed the budget of €11,734,015 for 2017 for roads across County Roscommon. Senator Hopkins said: “It is very positive that the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport has allocated €11.7 million in funding is to be provided for much-needed improvements to the roads network across County Roscommon. “The funding includes €270,000 for bridge rehabilitation works and a further €174,000 for safety improvement works on regional and local roads. Bridge works in this project include Termon Bridge, Castlerea; Cloonagh Bridge, Carrrowbehy; Cloonard Bridge, Castlerea; Laghtcausk Bridge,

Fine Gael Senators Maura Hopkins

Cloonyquin; Rathmore Bridge; Emlagh Bridge, Carrick on Shannon; Ballymartin Bridge and Slattagh More, Rooskey.” Also welcoming the allocation, Senator Frank Feighan said: “This funding is for Roscommon County Council to maintain and strengthen our roads and it will also help to stimulate local job creation which is really important to local communities.”

Connaughton nominated to the AILG Cllr. Ivan Connaughton has been nominated as a delegate from Roscommon County Council to the AILG (Association of Irish Local Government). He succeeds Cllr. John Keogh, who has stepped down as one of Roscommon’s three delegates. Cllr. Connaughton, of Fianna Fáil, now joins Cllrs. Liam Callaghan (Fine Gael) and Nigel Dineen (Independent) as a Roscommon delegate. At Monday’s meeting of Roscommon County Council, Cllr. Connaughton was proposed for the position by Cllr. Paddy Kilduff and seconded by Cllr. John Keogh.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople

Roscommon Restoration Services offer bespoke designs Spacious premises located at Lanesboro Road, Roscommon Roscommon Restoration Services is a busy establishment on the Lanesboro Road, Roscommon which specialises in kitchen and furniture restoration and refurbishment, alterations

to existing fittings and furniture, blasting of trailers and tractors as well as unique designs throughout the home. The workshop next door to Ardcarne Garden Centre

is a hive of activity with spraying and blasting areas as well as workbenches containing projects at various stages of completion. Owners Brian O’Neill and Liam Casey take pride in their work and boast an extensive portfolio of impressive projects. Some of their completed work includes kitchen makeovers, bespoke furniture designs and practical solutions to enable customers the opportunity to make the best of the space available to them throughout the home. While many of Roscommon Restoration Services’ designs are entirely unique, the work the company carries out in restoring worn out furniture speaks volumes about the passion involved. It’s a real labour of love and the results are extraordinary. The work carried out on the premises not only breathes fresh life into old furniture but it is also good for the environment and the company recently featured at the Reuse and Recycle Directory launch at Ros-

common Civic Offices. The before and after pictures which can be viewed on Roscommon Restoration Services’ Facebook page are proof of the spectacular results that can be achieved through refurbishment. The pictures will make homeowners think twice about disposing of older or worn out items. So before you decide to dispose of old items, contact the team at Roscommon Restoration Services to find out how they can help you get the best out of your home. Call 0906628419 or check out Restoration Services on Facebook.

Brian O’Neill pictured at Roscommon Restoration Services. Picture: Andrew Fox

Mobile:

086 8341780 Phone:

090 6628419 Lanesboro Road, Roscommon (Beside Ardcarne, Garden Centre) ● Kitchen Restoration ● Handmade Furniture ● Sandblasting Wood/Metal ● Paint Spraying ● Furniture Restoration and Repairs ● Custom Carpentry Services

Email: brianoneill999@gmail.com ●

restoration services

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople Urgent meeting of Roscommon Town Youth Soccer Club Due to the increasing number of underage players and therefore the need for extra teams, more parents are required to take part in the running of the club – otherwise the number of teams will have to reduced, thereby

Farnbeg, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. F42 VX24

disappointing some children when it comes to playing soccer this season. All parents must therefore attend a club meeting to discuss these matters on Thursday, 2nd of February at 8 pm in Hannon’s Hotel.

Ballyleague residents ‘against speed limit changes’ Meeting to be held next Tuesday Residents in Ballyleague, who are opposed to proposals from Roscommon County Council to increase speed limits on a busy road near the local national school, will raise their concerns with locally elected representatives and the council at a public meeting in the village next Tuesday. Under draft proposals published by the council in the last three weeks, the speed limit for motorists entering the shannonside village is proposed to go up from 50 kilometres per hour to 60

kilometres per hour for a distance of over two kilometres along the busy N63 national secondary route that runs through Ballyleague –and many residents are already opposed to the plan. The Ballyleague Village Renewal and Tidy Towns Committee has already spoken to local councillors about their concerns over the proposed changes – especially as the route with the new speed limit passes an already busy primary school – and the issue will now be discussed at the annual general meeting of the local residents and development group in St. Faithleach’s GAA clubhouse on

Tuesday, 31st of January at 8.30 pm. Other issues up for discussion on the night at the AGM are proposals to install new flowerbeds and landscaping on the Roscommon road into Ballyleague, a new 5-year development plan for the area, design work on an exciting new sculpture for the village centre and new recreational facilities for the banks of the Shannon. All concerned local residents and parents of children attending Ballyleague National School are invited to attend. For more information email: keepballyleaguetidy@gmail.com

Cllr. Tony Ward, Cathaoirleach of Roscommon Co. Council, making a presentation to Mary Earley who presented the Dermot Earley Bursary Awards at Áras an Chontae. Also in picture are Rachel Corcoran and Brian Stack who were current recipients of the awards. Pic: Gerard O’Loughlin

900 extra teachers for children with special educational needs Senators Frank Feighan and Maura Hopkins have both welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Education, Richard Bruton, of a new model of allocating resources for children with special learning needs. Senator Feighan said: “This new model of allocation will ensure a much fairer and more equitable system of allocating resources to children with more discretion devolved to principals and teachers, as opposed to officials in Departments who have never met the children. “I want to congratulate Minister Bruton, the Department of Education and the NCSE for the work undertaken to secure an additional 900 teachers who can deliver vital supports to children with learning

challenges, ensuring better educational outcomes.” His Fine Gael colleague Senator Maura Hopkins said that it is very positive for children with special educational needs that the Government is to provide 900 extra resource teachers and an extra €18 million to implement a new model for the allocation of resource teachers to schools. She added: “I have spoken with many parents and teachers who have welcomed the introduction of this new model following a trial in 47 schools in the 2015/16 year. It will ensure that we can deliver better outcomes for children with special educational needs, and eliminate unfairness and other problems which exist within the current model.”

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Planning your Wedding Day

Say I do to your €10,000 wedding at Athlone Springs Hotel

he Athlone Springs Hotel is a beautiful venue in the heart of Ireland. This contemporary venue hosts a welcoming lobby and drinks reception area in Cedar Cocktail Bar and the stunning Clonellan Ballroom caters for weddings up to 300 guests. The hotel also has its own private garden where you can escape for your photos and the Manhattan bridal suite is the height of luxury. They know that planning your big day is not easy when you are trying to budget and still have the wedding of your dreams.

The wedding team have been brainstorming over the past few months and are delighted to announce the launch of their new all-inclusive wedding package. For €10,000, couples can choose their church wedding package or their civil ceremony wedding package. Each package covers everything you need for your special day. Whether you are having a church or civil ceremony your ceremony décor and flowers are all included, you have two photographers to choose from, your wedding car, wedding cake, band & dj, stationery

too along with a full catering package from the hotel are all included in this new amazing package. The groom and his groomsmen will also have loads of choice with suits from Martin Feeney Formalwear in Galway. The Athlone Springs Hotel have some great wedding open weekends and events planned over the next few months, including a wedding showcase and tasting evening on Thursday, 2nd of February so drop by and chat with the team or contact Nicola any time on 090-6445808 or events@athlonespringshotel. com

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Planning your Wedding Day Fairytale Brides Specialising in Bridal Gowns, Bridesmaids & Flower Girls NOW above Coffee Boutique Main St., Delvin, Co. Westmeath www.fairytalebrides.ie For Appointment Tel: 044 966 4620 / Text: 087 6340064

Klassic

Church Street, Roscommon. 090 66 25995

Cleaners

Keepsafe Wedding Gown Preservation System

Palate-pleasing wines! < MIRIAM KERINS

hether your wedding guest list is as small as the crowd at the Donald Trump inauguration or as large as the protest march that followed, the fact is, when it comes to choosing your wine, getting it right is going to prove a tad daunting; especially as there may be some worldly wine snobs in your group who may insist on drinking a wine that befits the season. Personally, I’m the type of guest who thinks a bottle of reasonably priced Liebfraumilch is the height of sophistication, meaning I’m easy(ish) to please. However, (and while I’m no expert), I’ve put together some suggestions I hope will suit all palates and all purses! *Spring Wedding: It’s a new beginning so I suggest something fresh like a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc. My own favourite is any Sauvignon Blanc that’s produced in the Marlborough region of New Zealand because it’s dry, yet tastes like gooseberries and it’s low in histamine, meaning the aul morning

after headache isn’t as bad! *Summer Wedding: The obvious choice here would be a chilled, crisp white wine, a Prosecco or even a rosé; however a nice, full-bodied red always goes down a treat with hot food and my favourite is a Pinot Noir because it’s a savoury

wine with hints of raspberries and cherries; or a nice Spanish Rioja which I find goes perfect with every dish from vegan burgers to medium rare steaks. Sure you can’t go wrong. *Autumn Wedding: It’s got to be a Chilean Merlot; it tastes of caramel and juicy plums and, as

yer mammy would say, “sure there’s eatin’ an’ drinkin’ on it!” For me, a Merlot is a full-bodied statement wine that, like a Rioja, goes with just about anything, and, as it’s so popular, there’s plenty of stock on off-licence and supermarket shelves. *Winter Wedding: You can’t go wrong with a

robust red such as an Argentinian Malbec or a sturdy white such as a spicy Chardonnay. However, given the choice I’d opt for the warming Malbec every time; slightly pricier, but it’s the perfect winter sipping wine and my idea of heaven on a cold and frosty Roscommon evening.

ZipYard Athlone – versatile shop that really ﬁts you

ince opening its doors in June of 2013, The ZipYard Athlone has grown to be one of the top garment alterations locations in the region. Apart from providing the very important repair and mend service used by us all, The Zip Yard Athlone has also concentrated on and developed a specialised bespoke service, which brings individual designs and styles to life for the one-off fashion item. Due to increased demand, the ZipYard Athlone designed a dedicated bridal area within the store, offering privacy and space for the bride-to-be and her entourage to begin the important work of ensuring the dress is fitted exactly to compliment her body shape. The Zip Yard Athlone staff are accredited and trained by Julie Cobbe of stylefish.ie to understand body shapes and to advise on how you can maximise to your advantage the best way to present your dress, which will compliment your body shape. As your wedding day is one of the most important days in your life, The ZipYard Athlone operates on an appointment basis so as to ensure you and your entourage have lots of

time, total privacy (no-one getting a sneak peek in advance!) and most of all a dedicated and highly experienced seamstress who will be with you from the first day you meet to the day you collect your dress to wear on your big day! The ZipYard Athlone wants to ensure that you will:

* Look your very best * Feel totally comfortable and confident in your dress * And – most importantly… ‘WOW’ your husband-to-be, families and guests as you walk up the aisle! It’s your day; we would love to be a small but important part of it!

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Planning your Wedding Day ADVERTORIAL

Abbey Hotel Wedding Promotion – fantastic prizes to be won

ABBEY HOTEL ROSCOMMON

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

he award-winning Abbey Hotel, Roscommon have extended their wedding promotion offer with 10% off all weddings booked before the 31st of January. Couples who visited the recent wedding fair still have time make a followup appointment with Wedding Co-ordinator Lisa Mullally to discuss dates and the range of wedding packages available. All newly-booked weddings before the 31st of January will be entered into a free draw. The Abbey Hotel have teamed up with some leading wedding suppliers to make your Abbey Wedding Day a memorable experience. “Local cake supplier, Peter Manvell of Pete’s Pops, Knockcroghery will supply a bespoke style wedding cake free for one lucky couple, we also have a set of Decorative Love Signs from the Letters & Lights Company, and church and venue specialists the Enchanted Wedding Company are offering one lucky couple a chance to win a stunning Wedding Package which

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

E: weddings@abbeyhotel.ie T: 090 6626240

Photographed at the recent Wedding Fair at the Abbey Hotel were Lisa Mullally, Wedding Coordinator, Bethany Johnston, Front Office, Geraldine Grealy, Sales, Marketing\PR. Pic: Andrew Fox

includes an 8 ft. 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 and 6 beautiful cherry blossoms to decorate your wedding room.

These fantastic prizes are sure to make some lucky couples very happy. Winners will be announced on 31st of January so check out our Facebook page for updates,” explained Geraldine Grealy, Marketing Manager.

All couples who attended their wedding fair have until the 31st of January to book and pay deposits to qualify to be included in this fantastic draw. So don’t miss out on this amazing Wedding Promotion.

Don’t forget to follow them on Facebook and Twitter. Email weddings@abbeyhotel. ie or call 090-6626240 to arrange to make an appointment with Wedding Co-ordinator Lisa Mullally.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Planning your Wedding Day

Ballaghaderreen & District Credit Union Ltd Main Street, Ballaghaderreen Email: info@ballaghcu.com Website: www.ballaghcu.com

094-9860522 Open for Business and Lending *

Loans for all Occasions Come and talk to Ballaghaderreen & District Credit Union Limited about your credit needs. *Terms & conditions Apply. Ballaghaderreen & District Credit Union Ltd is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

A wedding with a vacation vibe! < MIRIAM KERINS

hether you’re

getting married on a sandy beach resort, a picturesque mountain top or tying the knot in magical Disneyland or colourful Las Vegas, we’ve got some timely tips for planning that no holds barred destination dream day complete with a vacation vibe! *Crowd Control: Before you book, think about the busy tourist trade. If your date falls during peak season, flights and accommodation will be at a premium and availability will be considerably lower, so plan carefully. *Save the Date: Issue the invitations ASAP. Guests need to know well in advance, especially those with kiddies and annual leave to sort out. You can never be too early with

your notice for a destination wedding, even allowing guests up to a year’s advance warning; especially those who need to renew their passports. *Planning is Key: Never plan your ceremony for the day or even the day after you arrive. Sod’s law says there’ll be flight delays, travel sickness or jet lag, etc., so book the ceremony for day three, that way everyone should be brighteyed and bushy-tailed and ready to rock ‘n’ roll. *Accommodation: When blocking off rooms, secure the best group rate possible for your guests and give them a few options in different star rating ranges, B&B basis, all-inclusive or board-only basis. Importantly, for those with babies, check availability of suitable cots. In addition, make sure you check out local public transportation

and car rental companies or even see if there’s a local coach hire that caters for groups. *Get Social: Set up a dedicated Wedding Facebook page for your guests, make it a closed group and update it regularly with useful information, recommendations regarding places to eat and shop and

tourist attractions to visit. Make sure to include your wedding day dress code, and other helpful things guests need to know, such as bring a jumper for cooler night time temperatures, the need to bring an electric socket converter or if the paths are cobbled/uneven, to remember to pack flat shoes etc.

*Mr & Mrs Congeniality: Prepare a family welcome pack for your guests and include a tube of sun screen, an itinerary of your event, a local map, a bag of local sweets, and if the family are travelling with a baby/toddler, pop in a sun hat, Calpol and a soother… they’ll thank you for it.

Bank of Ireland, helping you set up home! B

ank of Ireland has been doing business and supporting customers in Roscommon since the first branch opened in Boyle in 1838.

Much has evolved and changed in that time, but one thing that remains the same is the bank’s commitment to providing quality banking services to its Roscommon custom-

ers. The bank is keen to support people at all stages of life and has a range of services and options to offer customers. This includes buying

your first home, which is one of the most important decisions, and commitments any couple will make. Bank of Ireland recently hosted First Time

Buyer Week across its 250 branches nationwide to provide information, hints and tips for first time buyers interested in finding out more about the Government’s Help to Buy scheme, helpful hints and tips on the mortgage application process and other elements of the property buying process. Head of Bank of Ireland Roscommon, Sligo and Leitrim, Joann Hosey said “As a bank we have options to suit all customers tailored for different stages of the home-buying journey – saving a deposit, searching for the perfect property, and settling in and managing their mortgage. We always recommend that first time buyers talk to us early so that we can outline the steps in the journey to owning their own home.” Joann added: “Our First Time Buyer survey, conducted by RED C shows a majority, 51%, believe the new ‘Help to Buy’ scheme will make it easier for them to buy their first home, while 33% said it would not help, and 16% were unsure. 76% of respondents to the survey, which was conducted among over 200 prospective first time buyers countrywide in the 25 to 45 age group, said the new scheme was easy

to understand. “When asked about the single biggest challenge facing first time buyers, 46% said it was the cost of property, 30% said it was the ability to save for the deposit, and 15% said it was the lack of availability of supply in the areas in which they would like to buy. Only 6% cited the ability to afford mortgage repayments as the single biggest challenge.” A Mobile Mortgage

Manager can go through your application with you at a time and place that is convenient to you, at home or at work, even at the weekends. Customers can also apply online, on the phone and via Skype or Facetime. For more information visit bankofireland. com/mortgages <http:// bankofireland.com/mortgages>. Lending criteria, terms and conditions apply. Over 18s only.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Planning your Wedding Day

Keep calm, Bridezilla – and ﬁnd a balance! < MIRIAM KERINS

ou want your day to be perfect, we understand that; in fact, as someone who likes to be in control, who’s always organised, days parcelled out in little post-it notes… (just realised how sad I am), I totally get the whole ‘bridezilla’ thingy, I really do. However, if you’re trying to keep calm when the best man has broken out in hives at the thought of giving a speech and your mammy’s running low on Zanex, meaning despite the fact the doc is on speed dial there’s really no quick-fix to your anxiety disorder, then we’d suggest you try to take a step back, re-evaluate your priorities and read our hints and tips. Stop spitting out colourful four-letter tirades at your future mother-inlaw’s suggestions, and, keeping a vision of the type of day you want in your head, incorporate at least one of her ideas into

the ceremony. It’s not your future sisterin-law’s fault she looks like a yeti… remember, sending a waxing gift voucher to her won’t earn you any brownie points. Accept her hirsute flaws, she’s family now and the obvious choice as godmother to your firstborn! Tread carefully. Stop sending hourly texts to your bridesmaids… your big day is nearly a year away! Seriously love, if you need that much attention and adoration, adopt a lovable dog from a rescue shelter and put your efforts to good use; as in be more humane and compassionate. Get a grip and stop demanding your heavily pregnant sister postpone her caesarean section ‘till after your big day! I mean, how selfish are you woman? Remember, you’re a bride-to-be, not the Queen, so stop delivering edicts, decrees and demands and get a grip. Unless your last name is

1 Slieve Ban View, The Walk, Roscommon Telephone:

(090) 6637939

MAKE-UP HOUSE CALLS AVAILABLE ON WEDDING MORNING

Tel. (090) 6637939 for appointment New Repechage facial arriving in March

Trump and daddy’s name is Donald, stop putting gold-plated cutlery and Waterford Crystal on your gift list. Look, your family and friends are not

tycoons or Lotto winners; okay, they might drop you a few green backs in a card and Mammy and Daddy have probably re-mortgaged the house to

ere at Molloy’s Bak-

ery we like to meet with all our brides and grooms to be and discuss their upcoming wedding to gain a better understanding of their requirements when ordering a wedding cake. During the complimentary consultation we discuss dress colours, wedding theme, flowers, venue, etc. before we mutually agree on a wedding cake design. Samples of wedding cake flavours are available to order for couples to taste in the comfort of your own home. We have found that our threetier square cake is the most popular, serving up to approx. 250 people. We also offer an additional cake that is the same flavour as the wedding cake as back up. As the design of your cake is very personal we suggest couples bring to their consultation a number of things to give us a good idea of their style such as a picture of the dress, flowers they expect to use, location of reception and any images of cakes they have already seen and liked. After that, rest assured we

Beauty Studio

Stockists of: Sun-FX Spray Tan, Royal Effem Make-up, Repechage Facial & Body Treatments, Weight Loss & Detox Body Machine, Shellac Nails, Seaweed Bodywraps, Massage, Non-surgical Facelift Machine plus many more Treatment Products and Gift Vouchers available

Contact Molloy’s Bakery for expert, friendly advice on your wedding cake!

Louise’s

get you off their hands, so ask for a toaster, a coffee maker or be nice and ask for a donation to your favourite charity to be made in your name.

Wedding Cakes at Molloys Bakery “Our philosophy when it comes to wedding cakes is that the cake blends in rather than sticks out at your wedding. The Bride & Groom should be the main focus of the day.

It could be you!

Special cake offer

€295

Choose from the following, fully iced (white or ivory): ♥ Chocolate Biscuit 10 inch square ♥ Traditional Fruit 8 inch square ♥ Vanilla/Chocolate 6 inch square

We can also provide you with cake stands and cake toppers. Call today to make an appointment to discuss your requirements.

Abbeytown, Roscommon * Tel: 090 6625940 * email: info@molloysbakery.ie will create the cake you want, deliver and stage it at your reception venue. Contact us today

to discuss your requirements on 090-6625940 or call into us in Abbeytown, Roscommon.

Facebook/molloys.bakery Twitter/molloysbakery Instagram/molloysbakery

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Planning your Wedding Day

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

f you are looking for a wedding hotel with a difference, with stunning panoramic lake views and superb food, then you have to pay a visit to Glasson Country House Hotel. Situated just outside the quaint village of Glasson, the hotel could be your ideal wedding venue. Your wedding party and guests start off with magnificent views over the inner lakes of Lough Ree and the golf course as you drive down the avenue, with its ancient beech trees. The arrivals reception room, offering privacy for your guests, has a unique feeling of spaciousness and light created by the floor-to-ceiling glass and the feature spiral staircase. It is the perfect entrance to the purpose-built banqueting suite upstairs. In addition to the floor-to-ceiling glass, there is a spacious balcony on which you can relax after your delicious

meal, designed to make the most of the superb panoramic views. Let the wedding experts at Glasson help you arrange your special day – they are more than happy to tailor their sample packages to suit your own particular requirements. Your wedding guests can enjoy four-star luxury with the added bonus of being able to choose from a private cruise, a game of golf, or an onsite massage for the day after! Glasson Country House Hotel has been receiving consistently excellent feedback, and you are invited to carry out your own research on websites such as www.tripadvisor.ie or www.weddingsonline.ie. Glasson recently won the prestigious ‘Travellers’ Choice 2015 Winner’ Award. The whole team at Glasson is committed to looking after each and every

wedding couple as well as their families and guests! The Glasson Country House Hotel philosophy is shaped by the fact that the venue remains a family owned and managed property. Confirm your booking at Glasson and you can relax knowing they will take care of your every need on your special day. For more information call the hotel on 090-6485120, email info@glassoncountryhouse.ie to arrange a private viewing, or log on towww.glassoncountryhouse.ie to register your wedding enquiry details. Do get in contact with us, and we would be delighted to have the opportunity to show you around the premises and to discuss your own specific preferences in more detail – we’re here to help you enjoy this very special time in your lives!

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

ing Wedd Fair y 2nd Sunda il Apr

COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL

What do you want from your wedding venue? < MIRIAM KERINS

ow that you’ve set the date and agreed on your budget, the next step is to decide on your wedding venue because, believe it or not, this is where the majority of your decisions will ultimately be hinged! I remember allowing budget to determine my wedding venue and to be honest, when I spoke with a well-known Roscommon hotel’s PR lady after the fact, thinking I wouldn’t be able to afford their facilities, meaning they weren’t even on my radar, I was sick as a parrot when she assured me she’d have tailored a package to suit me. Doh! So do please shop around and where possible, use local venues because they will appreciate your business. And so, while traditional hotels, castles and stately homes have ready-to-go packages, which are all great, (and which they will re-work for you), do remember that there are also quirkier, non-traditional ones available like museums, libraries, art galleries, river boats, marquees and restaurants which will probably offer you a blank canvas, meaning you can put your own stamp on the décor, but you may have to hire in a coordinator. Remember folks, couples are very lucky because Roscommon is absolutely bursting at the seams with wonderful established facilities; so, don’t do what I did and rush into it; take your time and book at your leisure, decide what your priorities are,

list them, and look at suitable options. This is how I’d suggest you whittle down your choices: * How many guests will you have? Can the venue cater for this number? * Is it possible to hold both your ceremony and your reception there? * Is there room accommodation for your guests or is it available nearby? * Are there in-house caterers or can you hire in? * Do they provide sample menus and tasting sessions? * What’s the natural light like? You do want your photographer to be happy. * What’s the parking situation like and is it wheelchair accessible? * Are the staff friendly? This is so important! * Will they be holding other events on the day? If so, how many and what type? * Can the venue be accessed by public transport if needed? * Is the heating system sufficient? You don’t want your guests to freeze their bits off! * A biggie for me…what are the toilet facilities like? Seriously, if a venue’s bathroom is dirty I tend to turn around and walk out finding it a poor show if an establishment can’t provide sanitary facilities. The above are just a few suggestions, but once you’ve drawn up a list of priorities, ring around and start making visits with your future partner. Happy hunting!

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Planning your Wedding Day

What they said… about saying ‘I do’

“If you want your wife to listen to you, then talk to another woman: she will be all ears” – Sigmund Freud “Marriage is like a game of chess, except the board is flowing water, the pieces are made of smoke and no move you make will have any effect on the outcome” – Jerry Seinfeld “Marriage is a wonderful institution...but who wants to live in an institution?” – Groucho Marx

“By all means, marry. If you get a good wife, you’ll become happy; if you get a bad one, you’ll become a philosopher” – Socrates

“The best way to get most husbands to do something is to suggest that perhaps they’re too old to do it” – Anne Bancroft

“There is nothing in the world like the devotion of a married woman. It is a thing no married man knows anything about” – Oscar Wilde

“Always get married in the morning. That way, if it doesn’t work out, you haven’t wasted the whole day” – Mickey Rooney

“When a man opens a car door for his wife, it’s either a new car or a new wife” – Prince Philip

“Marriage is a wonderful invention: then again, so is the bicycle repair kit” – Billy Connolly

Now is the time to book your Spring /Summer Wedding

Air Force Blue 3 Piece Suit Just arrived Main Street, Co. Roscommon Ph: (090) 6626334

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Planning your Wedding Day

Will your bridesmaid be the Thelma to your Louise? < MIRIAM KERINS

sk any women with a

clutch of BFFs or more than one sister how difficult it is to choose her matron of honour, i.e. chief bridesmaid, and she’ll tell you it’s a complicated business. I know only too well, considering I managed to snare two husbands and do the biz twice. And so, when it comes to choosing that special person, you know, the Thelma to your Louise, the one who can make or break your sanity on that big day, we know that the choice will not only be a difficult one, it’s also one that must be navigated with the diplomacy of António Guterres (the new UN Secretary-General)! However, with that in mind, when it comes to choosing who will join you at the altar/registry office, we’ve got a few simple guidelines for you to follow… we hope you find them helpful. * Make Family a Priority: Even though you pulled each others’ hair out when you were kids, etiquette would suggest the sister nearest to you in age should be your first choice. It’ll also make yer mammy very happy. However, if your sister is an irresponsible train-wreck who can’t be trusted to wear a pink

polyester bridesmaid dress never mind organise the hen night, then bypass her for the important stuff by divvying it out across several bridesmaids, but still give your shambles of a sibling the title of chief bridesmaid. Why? Refer to above…It’ll please yer mammy! * Bestie: If you’ve got a friend who’s a serial bridesmaid, i.e. chomping at the bit to wear yards of ruffles, poofy sleeves, bows and diamantes, and will absolutely relish the drama of it all, you know the one, we all have them; just give her a bit of material, a scissors and a pattern and she’ll happily run up her own little number, then let her at it. Your work here is done! * Man of Honour: Why not? A bloke can stand up there with you just as well as a girl and if your best friend is male then why not include him in your selection. It’s 2017, anything goes and you can match his suit to the best man’s outfit or select a different colour suit for him and match his tie to your lovely bridesmaids’ dresses. Simple! Never…feel forced into asking someone just because they asked you; but in order to keep the peace, do offer him/her another role like reading a poem or if he/she’s musical, ask them to sing or play an instrument.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Planning your Wedding Day

Lough Rynn Castle Wedding Showcase T

he magnificent

Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens are hosting their bi-annual wedding showcase on Sunday, 12th of February from 1 pm-5 pm. This promises to be an occasion not to be missed. Lough Rynn Castle is one of Ireland’s most romantic Castle venues, set on a 300-acre Estate of breathtaking scenery in Co. Leitrim and was voted Best Castle Wedding Venue recently. Seamlessly blending Old-World elegance with contemporary luxuries, Lough Rynn Castle delivers impeccable, unobtrusive service that is never compromised. Guests can

relax under the careful attention of our staff and enjoy an exquisite selection of gourmet foods and wines. Lough Rynn Castle is a stunning venue for your wedding celebration. This picturesque setting is matched by creative menus and impeccable service. Every bride wants her wedding to be as memorable and magical as it possibly can be and at Lough Rynn Castle, the setting couldn’t be more perfect. Tucked away from the rest of the world, this Estate is entirely unique, the rolling lawns provide a beautiful back drop for a Champagne or Drinks Reception on a summer’s

day – and the Castle’s wood burning fires offer a warm welcome for a Winter Wedding. Be sure to visit us on Sunday, 12th of February to see the venue and the 3-tiered Walled Gardens, meet some of Lough Rynn’s recommended suppliers and sample some of the delights. For further information contact 071-9632700 or email: enquiries@loughrynn.ie

MOHILL, CO LEITRIM TO SAMPLE THE ATMOSPHERE CONTACT TEL: 071 9632700 Email: enquiries@loughrynn.ie Web: www.loughrynn.ie

MEMBER OF THE HANLY HOTEL CASTLE GROUP

Baby and Toddler

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople

Comedy and drama in Trinity Arts Centre Trinity Arts Centre, Castlerea are thrilled to have Seamus O’Rourke back on stage with the brilliant ‘Danger Money’ by John McManus on Saturday, 4th of February at 8 pm. This is a night to get off the couch and lift the spirits with great entertainment and laughs guaranteed. London was only ever meant to be a stepping-stone for Teddy ‘the Mucker’ Tucker but somehow he stayed there for over thirty years until one day he abruptly abandoned his friends and his job and returned home to North Leitrim. He now finds himself in the bog won-

Opening Hours Monday Wednesday 10am - 6pm Thurs/Fri/Sat 10am - 7pm Sunday 11am - 7pm

dering: should snakes receive the free travel pass? Are birds the souls of people that have passed on? What is that clown in number six smoking? Do we know what we don’t know? Why he’s bagging turf when he doesn’t even have a fireplace? Often described as being of the same ilk, John the writer and Seamus the actor hope to bring a story full of heartache and humour to the stage. It promises to be a production to remember. For further information or to reserve a seat contact 087-4027175.

Special ‘Parent and Toddler’ rate €5 before 12pm Monday - Friday

Monksland Industrial Estate, Athlone, Co.Westmeath. PHONE: 090 6498450 Website: jump4joyathlone.ie Facebook: jump4joy adventurecentre Email: jump4joyadventurecentre@gmail.com ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Advertorial –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Kids will ‘Jump 4 Joy’ in our adventure centre! Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Lisa Coyle and Ciara Egan. Picture: Andrew Fox

St John’s Community Centre Annual Monster Auction 2017 The committee of St John’s Community Centre Lecarrow are delighted to announce their forthcoming rescheduled monster auction, which takes place on Sunday, 12th of February from 2 pm sharp. David Diffley, Chairperson of St John’s Community Centre commented to the Roscommon People: “We are delighted to launch our monster auction 2017 with a number of quality items already listed in our catalogue.

“This year we are offering an extensive collection and storage service well in advance of the date as we have a large storage facility off-site. “We will call to your home free of charge and collect all items that are wished to be donated. As usual, all items of a saleable nature would be greatly appreciated and range from household goods, services, electrical items, livestock, fuel, vouchers, etc…” Drop-off days at the commu-

nity centre itself are Tuesday, 7th of February from 7 pm-9 pm and Thursday, 9th of February from 8 pm-9 pm. All funds raised will go towards the continuing maintenance and upkeep of St John’s Community Centre and we greatly appreciate the support show to our previous auctions, which were a great success. To arrange a collection from your house or business, contact David on 086-8952283 or Arnold on 087-6269443.

18 extra Rural Social Scheme (RSS) places have been allocated to Roscommon Minister for Social Protection Leo Varadkar has confirmed that 18 extra Rural Social Scheme (RSS) places have been allocated to County Roscommon.The allocation to Roscommon Integrated Development Company increases the total number of places in the county from 149 to 167. The news was welcomed in recent days by Fine Gael Senators Frank Feighan and Maura Hopkins. Senator Feighan said that RSS schemes are “firmly embedded” in the social fabric of Rural Ireland, providing vital support to community groups, clubs and associations. He added: “The aim of these schemes are to provide income supplement in return for part-time work in the community. While taking part in this

scheme, participants experience new opportunities to use and develop their skills while being involved in valuable community work.” Senator Hopkins said the Rural Social Scheme is so important right across County Roscommon. She said participants work on a wide range of projects such as village and countryside enhancement projects; caretaking at community and sporting facilities; social care and care of the elderly such as meals on wheels; community care for preschool and after-school groups. Senator Hopkins encouraged anybody who may be interested in applying for the Rural Social Scheme to contact Roscommon Integrated Development Company (Roscommon LEADER Partnership) on 090-6630252.

Let’s face it, we don’t have the most dependable weather here in Ireland, even in summer, so that makes organising a fun day out for the kids a bit of a problem. Jump 4 Joy Athlone Adventure Centre is an ideal way of providing a fun day for the kids while ensuring that parents and guardians are catered for too. We know how to provide a safe environment for kids to play in because we are parents

ourselves. And we also know how to provide a fun environment because... well... we’re also big kids too! Here at Jump 4 Joy we offer a warm, relaxing and friendly atmosphere for you and your little one to enjoy. For great value, why not join us from Monday to Friday before 12 pm for a special parent and toddler rate of just €5! So come along so that your little one can play, explore and jump 4 joy

in a safe, clean and friendly environment. There is entertainment on offer for children of all ages as well as a designated baby and toddler area. To top it all off, parents can enjoy a complimentary tea or coffee on entry as they relax while their little ones have fun. Contact 090-6498450 or email us at info@ jump4joyathlone.com and let our friendly staff arrange a booking for you!

Things only Irish mammies say! Ah Irish mammies, if flat 7-up or a cup of tea can’t fix you, their comforting words are bound to help. We’ve compiled a selection of well-worn words of wisdom only an Irish mother would come out with. “Take off your coat or you’ll be cold when you go outside.” She was right, she is an expert on human insulation after all. “What’s for you won’t pass you by.” So you’ve had one of those days; your partner left you, the head gasket on the car went, you were told to leave your place of work and never come back and your coat is no longer effective outside. Fear not, mammy will cheer you up. “If you fall and break your legs, don’t come running to me.” Irish mothers are renowned for overestimating their children! Then there are the typical exchanges of violent threats that seem to permeate every childhood. “Were you born in a barn?” “No, a hospital with swinging doors!” “Don’t be cheeky or I’ll redden your arse with the wooden spoon.” They are indeed unique and we’d definitely be lost without them, but let’s keep that a secret. After all you wouldn’t want them getting notions!

Unit B, (First Floor), Monksland Business Park, Monksland, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

T: 090 6504920 M: 086 1704244 W: www.surescanstudio.ie ●

Pregnancy Scans ● Gender Scan ● 3D/4D Scans

Chatterland Playschool & Creche

Palace Walk, Elphin, Co. Roscommon TELEPHONE: 071 96 30923

Prop: Aine Hanly Wynne

● Full Day Care ● Playschool ● Afterschool care ● ECCE Scheme and CETS Scheme provided

Opening hours 8 am to 6pm All staff fully qualified & experienced

Baby and Toddler Child safety tips for parents under pressure!

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

< MIRIAM KERINS

remember when my girls were small, baby-proofing the house was the first thing on my mind…well it was after my two-year-old fell down the stairs. I can tell you I was practically hysterical, especially as we had baby gates at both ends, so assumed she was safe. However, like most nosey toddlers, she managed to open it! Thankfully a visit to A&E confirmed she was fine, not even a bruise to show for her stunt

like efforts. Thank God. Mammy however, needed mild sedation! Now while we all know that toddlers require a safe environment, we also know that it’s virtually impossible to keep an eye on them at all times, and so for those parents who’re under pressure, we’ve put together a few safety bullet points… we hope you find them helpful. • Book yourself onto a baby/child first aid course now! • Buy two first aid kits;

ScanMe – Supporting your baby at each phase of pregnancy Following the great news of your new arrival, ScanMe.ie will be on hand to provide you with reliable and reassuring support through a wide range of scans carried out by our professional team. Sheila Briody is the most experienced Sonographer working in private practice. An early scan will confirm your pregnancy from six weeks. An 11-week scan will then provide further information about your baby, especially measurement of the Nuchal. The Panorama and Harmony blood tests are available from 9 weeks and involve a simple blood test from mum. The purpose of this blood test is to determine your risk of having a baby with a chromosomal defect such as Down’s Syndrome, Edward’s Syndrome or Patau Syndrome. Professor Malone oversees this programme and if results are concerning then you have access to the professor to discuss your results. The next scan on the agenda is the 2nd Trimester Anomaly scan between 20 and 24 weeks. Sheila is again the most experienced person to do this scan as interpretation of findings is key to diagnosing unusual and rare conditions. Once we have established your scan is normal we love to spend time doing 3D/4D imaging and giving you a USB to take home with lots of pictures and video clips. You can bring your USB back for your 3D/4D Third Trimester scan at 32 weeks and continue to enjoy seeing your baby on ultrasound! ScanMe.ie has been in business in Mullingar for the past six years and has an impeccable reputation as the leader of diagnostic medical ultrasound. Your pregnancy care should include all three scans and no other scanning facility outside Dublin can provide you with the standard of diagnosis that you will receive from Sheila and her team. Contact us at 086-7783353 or visit our website www. scanme.ie for more information.

one for the house, one for the car. • Buy a childproof, lockable press for all medicines and any dangerous chemicals like dishwasher tablets, fabric conditioner and washing powder. • Discuss safety with your child’s grandparents, other close relatives and childminders and keep all emergency contact numbers where everyone can see and access them. • Patrol the house, room by room, and walk through the garden, making a checklist of all possible dangers to your child. Remember to look at each hazard at the eye level of your child, getting down on your knees or crawling on your belly if that’s what it takes. Here’s a quick checklist of what to look for: 1. Is the family dog/ cat and your child supervised at all times? I don’t care how fabulous your pet is…and mine are amazing with kiddies, they’re very sociable, but I would never leave any animal unsupervised with

kids, to do so renders your child and your pet extremely vulnerable and you extremely careless. 2. Are all rooms fitted with smoke alarms and

do you have a carbon monoxide detector alarm? 3. Do you have a fire escape plan? No? Make one now! 4. If you’ve placed down

any rat poison in the garden, is it accessible to your child (or your pet), or are you happy it’s safely outside of their reach? 5. Are safety plugs fitted

in all sockets and are all loose wires/cords neatly secured? 6. Have you fitted a stair safety gate at both ends of the stairs, steps or changes in floor levels?

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople

Mildred Beirne pictured at the Lough Ree Summer Prom Festival in 2015. Picture: Andrew Fox

Mildred with the statue of Our Lady in her garden in Loughglynn.

Mildred Beirne pictured at her home in Loughglynn.

Dancing to the beat of her own drum < DAN DOONER

My recent trip to Loughglynn began with a hand-written sticky note left on my computer monitor. It read: Loughglynn – strange occurrences in small Irish villages – Knock apprication (sic) and also on the Late Late. The note ended with a phone number and the name ‘Mildred’. The person who left the note had not left their own name – understandably! Intrigued, I called the number on the note and was greeted by a very enthusiastic voice on the other end – Mildred. Mildred explained that she had appeared in a documentary about Our Lady appearing in Knock and that very little coverage of the documentary had appeared in the Roscommon media. I decided it was safer to make an appearance of my own in Loughglynn than push my luck with our lady, Mildred. Mildred lives in a bungalow which is set against the stunning backdrop of a lake and her well-maintained garden features a statue of Our Lady. Inside, her walls are adorned by pictures

which hint at a wonderfully interesting life. In fact, one look inside Mildred’s home provides evidence that an appearance on the Late Late was just the tip of the iceberg. After she had finished making coffee with the care of a barista, Mildred sat down to talk about the Knock documentary and Late Late Show appearance. It was all very interesting and she certainly stole the show in Montrose, but it was only a part of Mildred’s story. Mildred, who I established plays the drum in the Castlerea Brass & Reed Band, hails from Carracastle in Co. Mayo. She moved to Loughglynn following her marriage to her beloved husband Leo Beirne, who sadly passed away thirty years ago. Mildred Regan met Leo Beirne through music. Leo was the manager of an all-girl showband and had placed an advertisement looking for a singer. Mildred takes up the story at this point. “I thought I was a great singer,” she laughs, looking back. “It wasn’t long before

they told me they actually needed a drummer,” she says with a smile. Leo was a hard taskmaster as he set about turning his new ‘singer’ into a drummer. She remembers the difficulties that came with dating the boss too. “When I got engaged to Leo the other girls told me ‘Whatever you do, don’t tell him that we smoke!’ Leo hated smoking, so I never told him!” she says. Leo and Mildred had two children, Leo Jr. and Maria. Mildred’s music career took a back seat as she stayed home to look after the children. Leo continued to tour around Ireland with the girls until the group broke up in 1967. When that ended, Leo taught music until his death in 1987. Mildred says: “I didn’t go teaching music until Leo got sick. That’s how I got started, when he got ill I took over and when he passed away I continued teaching in the schools.” It’s a career that’s proved to be very rewarding with an

appearance involving 290 children on RTE’s Live at Three show as well as a trip to America with a group of set dancers. She’s danced and played music for former presidents, Mary Robinson and Mary McAleese, and there’s still time for Michael D. Higgins, she tells me! As if that wasn’t enough for our lady, her involvement with the Castlerea Brass & Reed Band has led to her performing at various high profile sporting events in the county and beyond and appearances at the New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade as well as events in the UK. It’s something she really enjoys but it’s the dancing she really loves. As for her appearance on the Late Late Show, well that was as a result of her work as a handmaiden down in Knock. “Overall I’ve been a handmaiden for 25 years. This meant I worked voluntarily in Knock during pilgrimage season from May to October. You could be asked to do anything including helping with the sick, making sandwiches, processions and Mass

intentions. We’re expected to do one Sunday a month but I go more often,” she says. It was during one such Sunday that Mildred’s Late Late adventure began. There was a crew shooting a documentary about the apparitions in Knock when the producer noticed Mildred dressed in her all-white handmaiden outfit. Mildred explains: “They stopped to talk to me and asked would I do the film. I said no problem and they came and filmed me at my house. The Late Late people were reviewing the documentary so they rang the producer asking for Fr. Richard Gibbons (Knock Parish Priest), Mr. Byrne (Knock business owner) and myself. It was a lovely experience.” Mildred was the star of the show that Friday and made the point that women should play a more prominent role in ceremonies at Knock and within the Catholic Church in general. She certainly hadn’t forgotten her roots as a member of one of the only all-girl showbands around. A

lesson for younger readers that ‘Girl Power’ didn’t just begin in the 1990s with The Spice Girls! Mildred’s story certainly doesn’t end here. She comes across as a woman who’s determined to squeeze every drop out of life. As well as playing with the Castlerea band, she also has a regular slot on Midwest Radio and volunteers at Mayo General Hospital once a week. Before I left, she had some words of wisdom: “I got more opportunities in later life and was able to take them. I had more life experience you see, and the opportunities weren’t there when I was young. My one piece of advice to anyone would be…don’t try and imitate people, be yourself. Get out there and give whatever you’re doing 100 per cent!” With Mildred’s positive outlook and outgoing attitude, it would take a brave man to bet against yet another high profile appearance in the future.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Weekend

PEOPLE

FACES AND PLACES

See pages 35 - 36

Aoibhín’s appeal to Roscommon students!

Aoibhín Garrihy

Actress and RTÉ Dancing With The Stars hopeful Aoibhín Garrihy, is set to bring a splash of sequins and some newly-learned Samba skills to the 2017 Bord Gáis Energy Student Theatre Awards. The former Fair City star joins this year’s expert judging panel alongside actress and author Amy Huberman and is encouraging students and supportive teachers in Roscommon to get their entries in now. Aoibhín took a break from Dancing With The Stars rehearsals to announce her role as a judge for the Awards, which celebrate participation in the dramatic arts in schools across Ireland. Commenting on her role as a judge

Eimear excited about Roscommon return! < DAN DOONER

Rooskey singer, Eimear Reynolds, right, is no stranger to Roscommon audiences through her own solo career as well as her excellent work with the Roscommon Solstice Choir. Eimear is due to return to Roscommon Arts Centre this Saturday (28th) as part of a national tour of her latest album ‘Say the Words’. The album was released last summer and since then Eimear has been busy performing around the country. Eimear told the Roscommon People that she was looking forward to returning to the Roscommon venue. “I’ve done a bit in there and it’s lovely. It’s always nice to perform in an arts centre. I like the performance to be like I’m in my living room. I’m very much about sitting down and performing songs and telling stories,” she said. Eimear is clearly excited about the album which is an eclectic mix of Irish classics as well as some recent tracks. The title track, ‘Say the Words’, is Eimear’s own work and she says it’s all about finding her own sound and going a little further each time she performs. “I’m coming from a classical background so it took me a while to find my sound. The album is a mixed bag with Irish classics as well as more up to date stuff. Even the title track is one of my own. I’m trying to spread my wings and go a little further each time,” she added. Eimear has enjoyed a very busy year of

performing for audiences near and far and this Saturday will provide her with an opportunity to perform for her Roscommon fans. “Every time I go out to gigs there are familiar faces coming out to support me. Of course, the Roscommon Solstice Choir has opened doors for me too and the whole experience has been brilliant for my own career,” she said. Eimear was also effusive in her praise of the “brilliant” Roscommon Arts Centre staff and highlighted how lucky the people of Roscommon were to have such a venue on their own doorstep. Eimear will be joined on Saturday night by Paul Hennessy for what promises to be a wonderful night of music. Tickets are selling fast so call the arts centre box office on 0906-6625824 to book.

with the Awards, Aoibhín Garrihy said: “I am so excited to be involved in this year’s Bord Gáis Energy Student Theatre Awards. As a judge, I’ll be looking for enthusiasm, innovation and commitment to the character whether that is through a powerful performance or captivating choreography. Above all else, I am really looking forward to seeing some of the standout talent from this year’s Awards.” This is the fourth year of the highly successful Bord Gáis Energy Student Theatre Awards, which are open to primary, and secondary school students around Ireland. The Awards have attracted entries from over 1,000 schools across the country since 2013 and the

highlight of the year sees shortlisted schools travel from across the country to attend the annual Awards ceremony at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre in May. The Bord Gáis Energy Student Theatre Awards are open to primary school pupils from 3rd-6th class and all secondary school students. The closing date for entries in the written categories is 10th of February. Shortlisted schools will be invited to a special awards ceremony at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre on 17th of May. To enter the Awards, log on to bgesta. ie where you can download an entry form to go with your written or video submission.

‘The Man in Black’ – a tribute to Johnny Cash comes to town! Direct from the USA, the No. 1 Johnny Cash Tribute right across America ‘The Man in Black’ comes to Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday, 11th of February at 8 pm sharp. Featuring Terry Lee Goffee and his band, this is one show you won’t want to miss. Terry sings like Johnny, looks like Johnny and he performs just like the great man, with energy, charisma and vitality! He has performed in theatres and venues worldwide to packed houses and great acclaim and has also received lavish praise from members of the Cash family. Joanne Cash and Tommy Cash have joined Terry on stage at his Nashville shows on several occasions with Tommy saying, “the show is great, my brother would be proud.” Joanne Cash Yates also endorsed the show by saying “It’s a wonderful show, I would recommend it to anyone, you don’t impersonate my brother, you pay tribute with honour. Terry Lee does this in spades.” A not to be missed night, celebrating the music and power of the ‘man in black’… Johnny Cash. Booking now at Roscommon Arts Centre on 0906625824/www.roscommonartscentre.ie

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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

Hamrock’s Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday night, 28th January:

Ballymahon Ramblers Elphin Street, Strokestown

The leading party venue for young and old in Strokestown and surrounding areas.

MONSTER Businesses: Reach your target market!

18,000 COPIES PRINTED WEEKLY

Card Game Earley’s Bushﬁeld In aid of Strictly Come Dancing with special guest star Tom Joe Hennigan Friday, 3rd February 1st Prize: Ewe + 2 Lambs 2nd Prize: New Year Hamper 3rd Pirze: Draw on the night for special Hamper

Card Game costs €10 per person

Telephone: 090 6626225 Saturday 28th January:

Sean’s Walk

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

Kennedy’s Hay Loft Bar

Sunday 29th January:

Aoife and Gerry Grennan

Bridge Street, Strokestown

Sunday, 29th January from 7pm Music with Paddy The Busker

Playing the Guitar, Bodhrán and DJ Great evening’s entertainment guaranteed Telephone 071 96 34384

Win two tickets to ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ We have two tickets to give away for the opening night of Castlerea Musical Society’s West of Ireland Premiere of ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ on Wednesday, 8th of February. To be in with a chance of winning these tickets, just answer the following question: In what venue in Castlerea will the musical be held? Please send your answers, with your name, address and telephone number to: Castlerea Musical Society Competition, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon before Friday, 3rd February 2017.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Pamela Donlon and Pauline Young. Picture: Andrew Fox

Castlerea Musical Society presents ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ Castlerea Musical Society are proud to present the West of Ireland Premiere of the hilarious Musical ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ in the Enterprise Hub, Castlerea, from Wednesday, 8th of February until Saturday, 11th of February 2017 at 8 pm nightly. This will be a 48th musical production for the society who will celebrate a remarkable 50th anniversary next year. This year’s musical is based on the 1988 American comedy film which starred the legendary Michael Caine and comic actor Steve Martin. It is set in the French Riviera and tells the story of two men competing to swin-

dle an American heiress of a considerable amount of money. There is a great twist in this story but suffice to say, in the best tradition of musicals, all will be revealed on the night of the show. The cast comprises of great musical talent from all around Castlerea and surrounding areas. Tickets for this great show can be booked by calling 087-4676475. Tickets are €15 each and there will be special concessions on our opening night for OAPs and students with an admission price of €12 each. Family tickets are also available this year with special rates for two adults and two children.

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

BEER OF THE WEEK! JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Contact 087 4676475 to book

Castlerea Musical Society cast members busy rehearsing for their upcoming musical production.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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

Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Aoife Geraghty and Imelda Hegarty.

Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Maeve Duke, Grace Butler and Sinéád Harrington.

Rockford’s & s Face Roscommon Places Pics: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Sophia Marchetti and Ida Neola.

Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Sarah Fitzmaurice, Eleanor Davis, Laura O’Donnell, Aoife Johnston and Claire Butler.

Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Nicole Miley, Jackie Halvey, Vicky Silver, Clodagh Murphy and Catherine Hanley

Pictured in Rockford’s, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Lisa Coyle and Kenneth Hanley.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Pamela Donlon and Áine O’Connor.

Faces & Places

Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Deirdre Chapman and Mary Parker.

Pics: Andrew Fox

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon on Saturday night last were John Spollen, Susie Spollen and Therese Rogers.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Kathy O’Reilly and Frank Beattie.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Annette O’Connor and Christina Glynn.

Pictured in Carthy’s Porterhouse, Roscommon on Saturday night last were Seamus Murphy, Sharon and Graham Stratford.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION In the readings since Christmas, Jesus has been revealed as the new royal son of David and Son of God. He is sent to lead a new exodus that brings Israel out of captivity to the nations and brings all the nations to God. As Moses led Israel from Egypt through the sea to give them God’s law on Mount Sinai, Jesus too has passed through the waters in baptism. Now, in today’s Gospel, He goes to the mountain to proclaim a new law – the law of His Kingdom. The Beatitudes mark the fulfilment of God’s covenant promise to Abraham – that through his descendants all the nations of the world would receive God’s blessings (see Genesis 12:3; 22:18). Jesus is the son of Abraham (see Matthew 1:1). And through the wisdom He speaks today, He bestows the Father’s blessings upon “the poor in spirit.” God has chosen to bless the weak and lowly, those foolish and despised in the eyes of the world, Paul says in today’s Epistle. The poor in spirit are those who know that nothing they do can merit God’s mercy and grace. These are the humble remnant in today’s First Reading – taught to seek refuge in the name of the Lord. The Beatitudes reveal the divine path and purpose for our lives. All our striving should be for these virtues – to be poor in spirit; meek and clean of heart; merciful and makers of peace; seekers of the righteousness that comes from living by the law of Kingdom. The path the Lord sets before us today is one of trials and persecution. But He promises comfort in our mourning and a great reward. The Kingdom we have inherited is no earthly territory, but the promised land of heaven. It is Zion where the Lord reigns forever. And, as we sing in today’s Psalm, its blessings are for those whose hope is in the Lord. – Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon/Happy ‘71 Bridge Clubs: John Coleman Cup (Team of 4) – 1st: M. & P. Mellett, M. Brennan, L. Brennan, 2nd: T. Murphy, T. Smyth, L. Curley, M. Dermody, 3rd: C. Ansboro, C. McGrath, M. McSharry, A. Flynn. 1st Session: L. Shine, L. Curley, P. & S. Cooney, 2nd Session: J. Halliday, J. Donnellan, M. McDermott, K. Holmes. St. Coman’s Bridge Club: North/ South – 1st: M. McDermott & A. Kilduff, 2nd: M. Egan & G. Relihan, Gross: S. Farrell & B. McCarthy. East/West – 1st: B. McLoughlin & M. Coyle, 2nd: B. Jordan & S. Hickey, Gross: K. Dowd & C. Ansboro. Ballymurray Bridge Club: Section A, North/South – 1st: A. Kilduff & M. Fallon, 2nd: V. & P. Finneran, Gross: E. Mulry & G. Relihan. East/ West – 1st: P. Callaghan & P. Kelly, 2nd: M. Madden & B. Maher, Gross: K. Jones & M. McDermott. Section B, North/South – 1st: T. McManus & M. McSharry, 2nd: J. Devaney & G. Spillane, Gross: G. Bannon & J. O’Gara. East/West – 1st: M. Law & S. Farrell, 2nd: J. Walsh & M. McSharry, Gross: R. McDermott & B. Jones. Kilbride Bridge Club: North/South – 1st: A. Igoe & G. McDermott, 2nd: S. Macken & A. McCourt, 3rd: B. Gillooly & F. Keane. East/West – 1st: M. Hussey & L. Hussey, 2nd: J. Hunt & M. Kelly, 3rd: M. Fallon & P. Donoghue.

FRANKLY

SPEAKING

FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

My lament for the great singsongs of the past! I

t’s a lovely Friday morning and as it’s the day of Donald Trump’s inauguration, I decide to leave the radio off for the day as naturally it’s full of ‘Trump this and Trump that’, and while I couldn’t care less about the fact that he got elected, I have no wish to be bombarded all day by tales of his success. And so I dig out the load of tapes that Carol’s niece Aoife gave me a while ago and after a bit of soulsearching I decide I’ll let Declan Nerney, Foster & Allen and Johnny McEvoy entertain me for the first part of the day. I put the man from Drumlish (in case you don’t know, that’s Declan Nerney), on first and before too long I was listening to his version of Nobody’s Child, a very sad tale about a young orphaned blind lad who was continually passed over when it came to adoption because of his disability. One of the great things about growing old – and there aren’t too many – is that if you still have your memory, you can reminisce about the old days – and as I listened to Nobody’s Child, it brought me back to the great days when Creggs Rugby Club were in our infancy and when singsongs were the norm after every game. Now I have often mentioned my good friend, Jack the Lower, aka Jack Hegarty, in these pages over the last number of years, but until now I have kept quiet about the fact that his party piece was Nobody’s Child – and in my mind’s eye I can see still him standing on a high stool in the clubhouse belting out every verse of the sad song. Even though we’d be having a good time, amazingly there would be total silence for Jack’s rendition. Everyone that time did some type of a turn. The Rasher would give us a blast of Fiddler’s Green, Anthony Duignan had a never before or since heard version of the Woozier, (spelling questionable), the Collins brothers – Sean and Vincent – were brilliant singers and entertainers, Duff would produce the Lumberjack, I might take out the rhythm stick, Eamon Cummins would be singing the blues, his future wife Eithne could fairly belt out the great Irish song Molly, Mickey Oates would be Gone fishing for Fish, and I have to say it was all mighty craic. Of course there were many more lads who could turn on the style (in the clubhouse more than the pitch), including one who would give us a bit of Gary Glitter, but in view of what happened Gary, we will keep his name to ourselves. In our very early days, the late Michael Fitzmaurice would give us the Galway Shawl every Sunday night. Anyway, it was a very simple form of entertainment that seems to have died out totally as there’s hardly any singsongs in pubs or clubs any more, and more’s the pity. Back in the day, myself, Jack the Lower, sometimes Jack the Higher and the

The Rhythm Stick, full name Hit me with your Rhythm Stick, was a number one smash hit for Ian Dury and the Blockheads way back in 1978. My version used to feature a sweeping brush as the stick, tearing off my shirt like a real rock star during my rendition, and generally disgracing myself!

Rasher formed the first boy band, and the sound of Cold Blow and the Rainy night, (it was a song) could be heard coming from all kinds of odd places at all hours of the night. What a pity we were before Louis Walsh’s time – we could have been the original Boyzone! Anyway, that’s my mission for 2017, so to all publicans out there I say ‘bring back the singsong’. We are all available to appear – and at very reasonable fees! Before I finish with the singsong theme, I am well aware that pubs like The Castlecoote Lodge and others have very successful get-togethers with trad and other musicians meeting every so often and playing their songs and having a night of music and craic – and well done to them for so doing. However, my version of a singsong is an impromptu one, where one lad or girl sings a song, someone else follows and then before you know it everyone is doing an old turn – hard to beat it. Also, for my younger readers, the Rhythm Stick, full name Hit me with your Rhythm Stick, was a number one smash hit for Ian Dury and the Blockheads way back in 1978. My version used to feature a sweeping brush as the stick, tearing off

Pedestrians putting themselves at risk? As someone who does a fair bit of walking, it’s sad to see the huge increase in the number of fatalities involving pedestrians on our roads in recent weeks. Seven people have been killed in just three weeks. Now it goes without saying that anyone going out for an

evening or night-time walk should have hi-viz clothes, carry a torch and make sure they can be seen. However, in my opinion one of the most dangerous things the pedestrian can do is listen to music through earphones, thereby not being able to hear

cars as they approach and it seems to me that particularly for girls, the music player is almost an essential piece of equipment. I would suggest leaving the music at home – and make sure you can see and hear everything around you.

my shirt like a real rock star during my rendition, and generally disgracing myself! I can still recall one afternoon performance before an IrelandEngland rugby match in the late seventies in the foyer of a posh London Hotel, when I was within an inch of being arrested for offending public decency. I still don’t know whether it was my singing, my torso or the fact that I had usurped some poor cleaner’s sweeping brush that almost got me bed and breakfast in one of her Majesty the Queen’s holiday homes. Suffice to say that was my last and only major appearance in the West End. To my eternal shame, the Rhythm Stick made a re-appearance this Christmas, but sadly the performance was slammed by the critics. They said it was out of tune, performed by an overweight, ageing artist who forgot most of the words and who looked as if he should be in a home for the bewildered. Personally, I was delighted, as it proved I was just as good and looking just as well as I did in my prime, and just like Tom Jones, Neil Diamond and Bruce Springsteen, I am living proof that if you have the talent, age alone will not take it away. Where’s the singsong?

Off to the dance… Finally for this week, we are looking forward to the GAA Dinner Dance in the Abbey Hotel on Saturday night and from what I hear, there will be a great crowd of revellers in attendance. The White Cakes are ready to have you rocking all night and we’re all set to go! Looking forward to ‘Till next week, seeing you all, includBye for now ing Martina from the People, there.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Business Minister launches new International Tourism Management Programme in GMIT

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Call on engineering industry in Roscommon to ‘dream big’ Engineers Ireland is calling on engineering organisations, local authorities and third-level institutes in Roscommon to get involved in Engineers Week 2017, a seven-day programme of nationwide events celebrating the world of engineering in Ireland. The annual event is coordinated on a national basis by Engineers Ireland’s STEPS programme – a strategic partner of Science Foundation Ireland’s (SFI) Smart Futures Programme. Taking place from 4th-10th of March 2017, Engineers Week encourages primary and post-primary students, their teachers and parents to explore the exciting world of engineering as well as highlighting the diverse career opportunities engineering offers. In 2016, over 570 events took place nationwide, engaging 43,500 participants, sparking enthusiasm about STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) and the engineering profession. In 2017, the STEPS programme team aspires to bring Engineers Week to an even larger group of students in Roscommon and will provide support for organisations interested in engaging directly with students to promote the significant contribution that engineers make to their local community. To find out more about events taking place around the country or to register an event visit www.engineersweek.ie.

Minister of State for Tourism & Sport Patrick O’Donovan formally launched the new degree in International Tourism Management in GMIT. L-R: first year tourism student Maeve O’Malley from Achill, Co. Mayo, Minister of State for Tourism & Sport Patrick O’Donovan, Dr. Fergal Barry, GMIT President, and first year Tourism student Bronagh Considine from Co. Clare.

At the launch of GMIT’s new honours business degree in International Tourism Management, L-R: Dr. Fergal Barry, President of GMIT, Donal Healy, Ireland West Airport, Marie Murphy and John Carty, lecturer and co-chairs of the new honours business degree.

The Minister of State for Tourism & Sport, Patrick O’Donovan, and the President of GMIT, Dr. Fergal Barry, last Thursday, 19th of January, launched a new honours business degree in International Tourism Management at the college’s Galway campus, attended by over 40 representatives from the tourism industry. The level 8 programme (CAO code GA381) which will commence in September 2017 in the College of Tourism and Arts (CTA), has been developed by CTA staff in partnership with industry stakeholders including the national tourism state body Fáilte Ireland. The new course includes two mandatory accredited work placements, the first in Ireland for 12 weeks between first and second year, and the second 12-week placement in an international destination between second and third year.

‘Roscommon’s favourite local broadband provider’ From

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Pictured are Willie Murphy (Head of Operations, Aurivo) David Hickey (Site Manager, Aurivo), Seamus Kenny (Kenaidan Contractors Ltd), Eugene Waldron (Waldron & Associates), Aaron Forde (CEO, Aurivo), Eoghan Sweeney (General Manager, Aurivo Dairy Ingredients and Consumer Foods). Pic: Richard McCarthy.

Real Broadband for Real Users

Aurivo commences €5m investment programme in Dairy Ingredients

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Aurivo, one of Ireland’s leading agri-businesses headquartered in the North West of Ireland, this week announced an extensive four-year development plan for its Dairy Ingredients facility in Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. The development, which is an upgrade programme of four phases to 2020, will see the creation of a modern, state-of-the-art production facility that enables exciting new product development and further positions

the Co-Op to meet global demand and anticipated market growth. Phase 1 of the construction project (which is already underway) involves the construction of a modern, fit for purpose personnel facility as well as new access corridors into the processing plants and finished product laboratories and new visitor facilities. Commenting, Aaron Forde, CEO of Aurivo said: “With an increasing demand for enriched milk powders & butter on the global

market, the €5 million investment programme over the next four years by Aurivo will work to meet these demands and grow our business even further on the global stage.” Aurivo has engaged local construction company Kenaidan Contractors Ltd as the contractors for the new development. Aurivo has appointed Eugene Waldron of Waldron & Associates, who is based in Claremorris, as the project management engineer on the site.

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

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

NewsPeople

€60m and 273 ‘actions’ – will latest plan rescue rural Ireland? < PAUL HEALY

There has been a widespread welcome for a new Action Plan for regional development which was launched by the Government in Ballymahon, Co. Longford on Monday. The €60m programme to help rejuvenate rural Ireland was launched by Taoiseach Enda Kenny, who was accompanied by the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Heather Humphreys TD. A number of other Government ministers, including Minister Denis Naughten, Minister of State Seán Canney and Minister of State Michael Ring were also present. The 273-point Action Plan for Rural Development includes a promise to revitalise 600 towns and villages, and support 135,000 new jobs within four years. The plan contains 276 proposed actions in five sectors – Supporting Sustainable Communities; Supporting Enterprise and Employment; Maximising our Rural Tourism and Recreation Potential; Fostering Culture and Creativity in Rural Communities; Improving Rural Infrastructure and Connectivity.

This will revitalise our towns – Feighan Senator Frank Feighan has said the Government’s Action Plan for Rural Ireland will deliver benefits to local communities in the region. “It is an ambitious plan containing more than 270 targeted actions that will help to revitalise many towns and villages affected by the recession. These range of measures include: Initial €275m to implement the National Broadband Plan; Investing €50m in sports, recreation and cultural facilities; Protecting vital local services such as the rural post office network; Safeguarding small schools; Boosting tourism by funding infrastructure; Doubling investment in flood relief works by 2021. “As part of this Rural Action Plan, planning legislation will also be reviewed to allow the change of use of vacant commercial properties in rural towns and villages for the provision of apartments and homes. “There will also be a new pilot scheme to encourage increased residential occupancy in towns and villages. “This Action Plan for Rural Ireland will see all Government Departments working to revitalise and strengthen rural Ireland and its communities.”

‘Positives in plan – but €60m will be spread thinly’ Taoiseach Enda Kenny with Heather Humphreys Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. Photo: Michelle Ghee. www.gphotos.ie

Naughten says broadband plan ‘well underway’ Speaking at the launch in Ballymahon Library, Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Denis Naughten said the Government is determined that broadband will be delivered and that it will leave a lasting a legacy. He said: “1.4 million homes and businesses in Ireland can access high speed broadband of at least 30 Megabits per second. 4G data services are available to over 90% of the population. This is where we start from. But in this two-speed digital Ireland another 1.8 million people are left out, and left behind. That is a story of disadvantage

and of isolation we are determined to end. The National Broadband Plan will do that. It will deliver high speed broadband network to over 750,000 premises, covering 100,000km of road network and 96% of the land area of Ireland. “A procurement process is underway to select the winning bidder or bidders. This process is being intensively managed. It will be a predominantly fibre-to-the-home network for rural Ireland. This means the network will be futureproofed for a generation. “And high speed broadband is already revitalising rural Ireland. The Trading Online

Voucher Scheme, is a specific initiative, transforming an ideal into action. 3,000 small businesses have successfully applied for grant assistance from my Department. More than 6,000 business owner-managers have benefitted from expert advice and from peer-to-peer support under the scheme. “The national broadband plan will put every place name on the digital map. It will give every parish the means to be the hub of a living community. I am here today, not to announce a plan; I am here to tell you that the plan in hand, is well underway.”

Muted welcome from Fitzmaurice Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice welcomed the plan but said that many of the measures referenced in it had been announced “a number of times before. Any measures that will aid the development of rural Ireland are certainly most welcome but many of the commitments that are in the plan have been announced before and some of the measures have been announced a number of times. There are some glar-

ing omissions too.” Deputy Fitzmaurice expressed concern that just €60m has been provided. He added: “Commitments with regard to LEADAR, CAP, Job Schemes, Broadband, mobile phone coverage, flooding, rates relief and many others too have been made in the past and were included in the negotiations in the Programme for Government, of which I was a part. “The plan is also short of specifics

as for instance, no figure has been put on what the size of the grants will be for the renovation of houses in rural areas mentioned in the plan. On the question of transport and infrastructure there is no specific mention of the plans to upgrade the N4 and N5 roads which are an ongoing concern in this region” he said. “Very few of the commitments in this 70-page plan are costed. We have

seen a multiplicity of these plans being unveiled over the years and they have never been followed through and the people of rural Ireland have been left high and dry as these plans gather dust. “It is time that we had real action on the re-development of rural Ireland and not a constant re-hashing of plans that have been announced before several times.”

Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Galway Eugene Murphy has said that the Government’s €60 million plan to revitalise rural Ireland contains some real positives and he broadly welcome any such initiative which aims to safeguard and improve services and facilities for people living in rural Ireland. “Proposals to lure people back to town centres by converting shop fronts into homes are welcome as well as a scheme due to be rolled out by the autumn which will see house buyers offered grants on a pilot basis to restore properties in rural towns and villages. “Other positives include 90 new public nursing home facilities and the establishment of 18 primary care centres, while I also welcome plans for a grant scheme for CCTV and personal alarms for the elderly. I also welcome the announcement of a new ‘rates alleviation’ scheme which will move to re-evaluate rates in a number of counties including Roscommon as many businesses are crippled by the hike in commercial rates. “However I would like to see further clarification in relation to the upgrading of the N4 between Mullingar and Longford and the N5 between Scramogue and Ballaghaderreen as they are vital infrastructual links to the west. While there are undoubtedly some great positives in the plan I am fearful that the €60m which has been allocated will be spread very thinly, leaving under two million (euro) per county. The Government needs to bring forward a tangible plan with ring-fenced funding and I sincerely hope that this is simply not a rehashing of existing schemes and programmes which were previously announced.”

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

PropertyPeople PSRA Licence No. 001350

ALE N OForS Sale EE N O FAL L SALES

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

LANDS TO LET • c.36 ACRES OF PRIME LANDS AT COOLUSTY, ATHLEAGUE For long term lease with entitlements of €3,300 per annum

●

Property Sales

●

Lettings ● Valuations

Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Tel. (090) 6663700. Mob. (086) 8985013 www.connaughtonauctioneers.ie

M.S.C.S.I

NEW TO THE MARKET

3 B/R Semi Detached Residence

5 B/R Detached Residence

3 B/R Detached Residence

42 HAZELWOOD PARK ELPHIN CO. ROSCOMMON

17 BALLYCLARE COURT BALLYLEAGUE LANESBORO CO. ROSCOMMON

PRICE REGION: €85,000

GLENTAUN ROAD COOLAGARRY Property Auction GLENTAUN VILLAGE LOUGHGLYNN BALLINASLOE, CO. GALWAY CO. ROSCOMMON PRICE REGION: €250,000

PRICE REGION: €100,000

• C. 36.7ACRES AT GLENAMADDY For long term lease with entitlements of €4,480 per annum • C.28 ACRES AT CARRICK, KILTOOM For short term letting (with no entitlements) All lands advertised (cattle & sheep only)

WANTED LANDS FOR LEASING CONTACT IVAN ON 086 898 5013

• Large 3 bed semi-detached house • Ideal starter home/investment property • On the outskirts of Elphin village • Can be sold with sitting tenant or vacant possession • Wooden flooring in all rooms • Oil fired central heating • Viewing highly recommended For further details & information contact the office on 090 66 63700

• Newly decorated internally, ready to go • In the much sought after area of Lanesboro • Front of estate overlooking the River Shannon • Built-in wardrobes in all bedrooms • Large rear garden • Wired for alarm • Priced to sell For further details & information contact the office on 090 66 63700

• Exceptional five bed residence with large shed to rear • Approx. 3 minutes from M6 Dublin/Galway Road • In showhouse condition with no expense spared • Attic floored & insulated, suitable for conversion with Velux windows • Natural gas piped heating • Adjacent to bus stop (approx. 12 buses per day & 8 trains to Dublin/ Galway) • Viewing highly recommended, strictly by appointment. For further details & information contact the office on 090 66 63700

• Prime 3 bed residence with outbuildings • Standing on c. 2.2 acres. • Recently redecorated • Deceivingly large internally • Located approx. 1 miles from the village of Loughglynn, just off Castlerea Road • Option to purchase additional c.18.9 acres of land • Enquires invited for immediate sale For further details & map contact the office on 090 66 63700

Sale of old AIB bank premises imminent?

No. 3, Ardanagh, Roscommon

Residence in prominent town location Pat Hughes Auctioneers & Co. are offering at No. 3, Ardanagh, Roscommon 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 a kitchen cum dining room, downstairs bedroom, bathroom and two bedrooms upstairs. Viewing is highly recommended. Offers in excess of €60,000 are being considered. For further information on this property phone 090-6627003, email info@pathughesauctioneers. com or visit www.pathughesauctioneers.com

Pat Hughes Auctioneers & Co. are offering circa 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. Pat is confirming that they are at an advanced stage of negotiations on the old AIB bank at Church Street and are hopeful of concluding a sale in the coming weeks. For further information on this property phone 090-6627003, email info@pathughesauctioneers. com or visit www.pathughesauctioneers.com

Bushfield in Castleplunkett

The old AIB bank, for sale at Church Street, Roscommon.

Great ofﬁce space option in Roscommon! Pat Hughes Auctioneers & Co. are offering for sale circa 25,000 sq. ft. of office space, formerly the HSE offices at Lanesboro Road, Roscommon. The building stands on a large site with parking for up to 100 vehicles. For further information on this property phone 090-6627003, email info@pathughesauctioneers.com or visit www. pathughesauctioneers.com

Attractive bungalow in Castleplunkett Connaughton Autioneers are offering to the market this four bedroomed residence located at Bushfield in Castleplunkett. In excellent condition and standing on a large mature corner site of approximately 0.55 acres with two garages, one to the front which can be accessed from internally and to the rear. There are a host of extra features that come with this

property such as a timber decking area overlooking the rear gardens, private well water, greenhouse, established vegetable garden, two entrances, one to front and one to the side, a converted and floored attic space with ‘Stira’ attic stairs, and a range of mature trees and shrubbery beds around the property. The accommodation is of a very high standard and consists of reception hallway,

sitting room, dining room, kitchen, a back hallway, four bedrooms and a main bathroom. This is a lovely warm and inviting family home with large gardens which is reasonably priced with no outstanding works. Viewing comes highly recommended to fully appreciate all that is on offer. For further details, contact the office on 090 66 63700.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

PropertyPeople

Property of the Week with John Earley The Upper Walk Road, Roscommon town ... John Earley has described this as his Property of the Week.

Open viewings at 2, The Barony, Strokestown on Friday David Diffley, MIPAV, TRV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week advising that an open viewing will take place at a quality three-bedroomed semi-detached residence located at 2, The Barony, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon on Friday, 27th of January from 3 pm-4 pm. David commented: “This is a quality three-bedroomed mid-terrace two-storey residence located in the select Barony development adjacent to the centre of Strokestown. The property offers spacious living accommodation throughout together with the benefit of a low maintenance exterior which and is situated in a quiet enclosure of only ten houses. The auctioneers now invite viewings and offers after €60,000 for immediate sale.” For further details, please contact David at Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email ddiffley@propertypartners.ie.

Prime Kilmore lands and residence available John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering new to the market a prime farm of lands containing c. 49.41 acres with the benefit of a two-storey residence of c. 1,350 sq. ft. located at Dangan, Kilmore, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as “a prime farm of lands with residence of c. 1,350 sq. ft. (in need of modernisation) and farm buildings set to the side. “The property is located convenient to the villages of Dangan and Kilmore and can be sold in one or more lots should market interest dictate as follows: Lot 1: The entire, Lot 2: c. 39.38 acres with residence and farm buildings standing thereon, Lot 3: c. 10.03 acres.” The auctioneers now invite immediate viewing 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.

John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley is this week offering a superior quality four-bedroomed bungalow residence of c. 1,485 sq. ft. for sale at The Upper Walk Road, Roscommon town as his Property of the Week. John describes the property as “a most attractive bungalow residence finished to the highest standard and beautifully maintained by its present owners. The residence stands on a substantial and mature site area in this select residential area close to Roscommon town and offers spacious living accommodation throughout. Set to the rear of the said residence is a large detached garage of c.

325 sq. ft. which has been plumbed for a bathroom and has a large roller door servicing. “Living accommodation comprises of reception/hallway, sitting room, kitchen/ dining room, living room, four bedrooms with master ensuite and bathroom. Rarely does such a quality property come to the market in this location and we now invite viewing and offers to sell.” Price guide: €180,000 ono. For further details or to arrange a viewing, please contact John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon on 090-6626579 or email jearley@propertypartners.ie.

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

LANDS TO LET on a 5 year lease – 1st Letting • Circa 58 acres at Ballyforan, Co. Roscommon • Circa 30 acres at Cloghan, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LANDS TO LET

Final offers sought on Knockcroghery bungalow Pat Hughes Auctioneers & Co. are accepting final offers on a three-bedroomed bungalow on a half-acre site located less than a half a mile from the village of Knockcroghery, at Corboley, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. The property can be sold with a further eight acres of land if required. For further information on this property phone 0906627003, email info@pathughesauctioneers.com or visit www.pathughesauctioneers.com

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

• A quality 4 B/R detached bungalow residence of c. 1,800 sq.ft. • Standing on 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.

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NEW TO THE MARKET A PRIME LEASEHOLD INTEREST IN AN

ESTABLISHED AND RENOWNED JEWELLERY BUSINESS IN ROSCOMMON TOWN CENTRE ALL OFFERS INVITED TO SELL

• Circa 45 acres at Ballyglass, Four-Mile-House - 11 Month Letting ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BALES OF SILAGE FOR SALE • Top Quality Chopped Silage, convenient to Ballyleague - €25 per Bale ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 LEGAL:- LIDDY NEILAN SOLICITORS, ABBEY STREET, ROSCOMMON For further details please contact the office on 09066 27003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Circa 66 acre Residential Farm recently on the market at GLENBALLYTHOMAS, TULSK, CO. ROSCOMMON

Corboley, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

PSA Licence number: 001481 PSRA Licence No. 001481

This property is generating a lot of interest. Most of the lands are of top quality with the benefit of a range of out offices including a 5 Bay Slatted Shed, Silage Base, Hay Shed and various other stores. The residence is a three bedroomed farm house. The property has excellent road frontage and is located only a short distance off the main Frenchpark to Tulsk road in a renowned farming area. The lands can be sold in one or more lots to suit. Viewing is highly recommended. Pat Hughes, Auctioneer, is encouraging local farmers to talk to him, this is an ideal opportunity to increase your holding. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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@pathughesauctioneers.com Web www.pathughesauctioneers.com

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.

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ALL OFFERS INVITED A PRIME HOLDING OF LANDS CONTAINING C. 22.7 ACRES SET OUT IN ONE LOT LOCATED AT

GORTEENCLOUGH OR CURRAGHMORE, ATHLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON ALL OFFERS INVITED TO SELL A select holding of lands located in a much sought after farming area with direct access onto the famous River Suck. An excellent opportunity for any would be purchaser to acquire a prime parcel of lands as seldom does such a farm come up for sale in this renowned farming district. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewing and all offers to sell. LEGAL: MESSERS PATRICK J NEILAN & CO, GOLF LINKS RD, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON. 090 66 26245.

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

--------------------------------------------------------------------LANDS FOR LEASE - NEW LETTING c. 35 acres located at Tonebane, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon. 6 year term. Enquiries invited.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

FarmingPeople

Donal Dowd Hoof Trimming Service ● ALL CATTLE CATERED FOR ● DUTCH TRAINED ● SAFE & FULLY INSURED

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O’Beirne welcomes Minister’s view on live export trade Mr. John O’Beirne, Roscommon IFA Livestock Chairman, has welcomed the strong view of the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed, expressed at the IFA AGM in Dublin, that the live export trade is critically important and

a vital safety valve for the beef sector. The Minister said he is personally very committed to ensuring that live exports are part of the policy mix for the beef sector. In response to the IFA request for Minister Creed to

visit Egypt to capitalise on the live trade opportunity to that market, the Minister said Egypt was being considered for a visit and trade mission. He said it is clear that there is a market opportunity in Egypt for Irish live cattle right now

and he also said that the Department is working on improving the certification issues. Mr. O’Beirne said Minister Creed also responded positively to the IFA proposal to remove the €8 charges on calf exports,

Minister must intervene in Glas payments debacle – Brady

Western Forestry Co-op Your Local Forestry Co-op

FORESTRY INFORMATION EVENING Raferty’s Oakland Hotel, Glenamaddy on Wednesday, 8th February at 8pm 31 years in business as Ireland’s longest established Forestry Co-Op ● Come along and learn of the attractive grants and benefits of forestry ● Topics discussed will be afforestation and harvesting ● For local farmers and landowners ● Meet our team of foresters who will be on hand to answer all queries ●

Comer furious over HSE’s ‘casual slur against farm families’ 087 - 6606043

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 3 RINGS IN OPERATION. ALL STOCK PRE-BOOKED. YARD OPENS AT 8 A.M. FOR SALE ON THURSDAY 2ND FEBRUARY IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR USUAL SALE

12 BRITISH FRESIAN DAIRY SPRINGING HEIFERS CALVING 05/02/17 ONWARDS TO AI HEREFORD BULL GENUINE STOCK FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

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saying he would look at this and that “it would be a very low price to pay to remove it to get calves out of the country which is so important for the beef trade.” He said it was very clear that the lower quality calves needed to be exported.

Speaking on the widespread coverage given to allegations that some ‘farming families’ were deliberately keeping elderly relatives in public hospitals to avoid having to engage with the ‘Fair Deal’ scheme and make contributions towards the cost of nursing home care, the President of ICMSA, John Comer, said: “The allegations were serious and the fact that they seemed to have originated with senior HSE staff meant that the matter would have to be pursued. “While no-one disputed the extent of pressures on the public hospital system it was wholly unsatisfactory to have very senior personnel singling out a particular group and levelling this kind of accusation against them without producing any kind of statistical or factual breakdown that would support such a argument. “It now behoves the HSE personnel cited

in the report to produce the hard evidence on which they had based this casual slur against farm families. “Unfortunately farmers are an easy target for this kind of stuff and we’re well used to people deflecting their own or their system’s shortcomings in our direction. But I personally feel a little aggrieved when a senior source is quoted in a connection like this on the basis of anecdote or heresay without the slightest attempt made to produce any statistical evidence to support what I’m afraid we have to interpret as a very casual slur against farm families. “I have to say that I find it unsatisfactory that a senior public servant can be quoted being so disparaging about a group within society in this offhand way without being asked to produce some kind of factual basis for her opinion”, said Mr. Comer.

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

IFA Rural Development Chairman Joe Brady has called on the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed to intervene and resolve the “debacle” which has left up to 10,000 farmers without a GLAS payment. He said many of these farmers joined the scheme as far back as May 2015. Some have yet to receive a payment. Joe Brady said: “The delays in GLAS and AEOS payments have caused a lot of concern on farms and has seriously affected cash-flow difficulties on farms. Minister Creed was left in no doubt at the IFA AGM as to the gravity of the situation and IFA now expect him to act.” €97m was paid out at the end of December last, which represented 85% of the payment to 27,363 GLAS I and II farmers. It would appear that very few payments were made this week, despite commitments given that more would be made. IFA estimates that a further €35m is now due as well as GLAS+ payments worth €3.6m. The remaining 15% payment will be paid from the end of February onwards when onfarm inspections have been completed by the Department of Agriculture on selected farms. In relation to AEOS, Joe Brady pointed out that around 4,000 farmers are still due a payment, which for many is their last payment in the scheme, as many AEOS farmers have now moved to GLAS.

Roscommon Mart Report Friday, January 20th: There were increased numbers on offer this week with an excellent trade for all classes. Prices for bullocks ranged from €2.09 per kilo up to €2.27 per kilo. There was a brisk trade for heifers with prices averaging from €2.28 up to €3.06 per kilo. There was a large entry of dry cows on offer with nearly a100% clearance of lots. Prices ranged from €1.54 per kilo up to €2.06 per kilo. Friday sales continue weekly for bullocks, heifers and dry cows - Special sale of bullocks tomorrow (Friday 27th) also heifers and dry cows. Dry cows made from €780 to €1840. Sample prices: BBX 910 kgs €1840, Char 855 kgs €1715, Lim X 805kgs €1540, AAX 780 kgs €1255, Simm X 650 kgs €1125, AAX 700 kgs €1015, Lim X 745 kgs €1280, BBX 530 kgs €1015, Char X 715 kgs €1205, Lim X 690 kgs €1325. Heifers made from €475 to €1010 over. Sample prices: Char X 490 kgs €1500,

Char X 645 kgs €1460, Lim X 675 kgs €1400, Char X 630 kgs €1400,Char X 620 kgs €1390, 2 Char X 597 kgs €1370, BBX 590 kgs €1200, Lim X 385 kgs €1130, Lim 420 kgs €1080, Char X 400 kgs €1020, Char X 390 kgs €1100, AAX 320 kgs €850. Bullocks made from €565 to €750 over. Sample prices: Lim 690 kgs €1440, Char X 585 kgs €1240, Lim X 565 kgs €1230, Lim X 585 kgs €1160, Char X 550 kgs €1100, Lim 465 kgs €1035, Char X 510 kgs €1020, Char x 445 kgs €1010. Sheep sale – Wednesday, January 25th: We had a small entry of hoggets again this week. There was dip in trade for the finished hoggets with hoggets making as high as €102. The trade for cast ewes was on a par with the previous week. Sales continue each Wednesday at 11 am for lambs and cast ewes. Sample prices - Hoggets: 45.7kgs €102, 49kgs €101.5, 51.7kgs €101, 63.4kgs €100, 48.7kgs €96.5, 49.7kgs €96, 45.8kgs €93. Cast ewes made from €73 to €98 per lot.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

FarmingPeople

(Serving Farmers for over 57 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

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

Special Sale of Bullocks Tomorrow Friday, 27th January at 11 a.m. Also Heifers & Dry Cows -------------

Special Sale of Springers & Suckler Cows This Saturday, January 28th at 12 noon 80 lots of Excellent Quality Stock on offer -------------------

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

Special Spring Sale of Weanlings

Roscommon grain farmers attend IFA Grain Protest in Dublin.

Roscommon sheep farmers encouraged to apply for €10 Ewe Sheep Scheme Mr. Michael Glennon, Roscommon IFA Sheep Chairman, has welcomed the statement from the Minister of Agriculture Michael Creed at the IFA AGM in Dublin that he would encourage all sheep farmers with ewes to apply for the new €10 per ewe sheep welfare scheme

negotiated by IFA. The closing date for application to the scheme is 31st of January. Mr. Glennon said there are strong farmer attendances at Department of Agriculture meetings on the scheme around the country and very positive interest in the scheme. He

said the IFA is strongly encouraging all sheep farmers with ewes to make an application under the scheme as soon as possible. Mr. Glennon said the Department of Agriculture has confirmed to the IFA that sheep farmers may use ewe lambs from the

previous year, once they are over 12 months of age, to qualify as replacement for ewes applied on under the scheme at inspection time. He said farmers who apply on ewes in January, may replace those ewes with ewe lambs once they reach 12 months of

age, and maintain eligible numbers in the scheme. He said, in general, this would be in the spring time following the main lambing season. The Department needs to adopt a flexible approach in this area, especially for farmers breeding their own replacements.

MCL Agri Supplies Leading suppliers of Animal Remedies, Feedstuffs, Hardware, Fuel and much more ...

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Sheep Scanning Service Commencing Wednesday, February 8th – 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. & each week thereafter

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

Tel: Paddy 086 0791177 Michael 087 8125332

Located on Ballymahon Road, Lanesboro (Behind Stewart Oil Service Station)

Email: maccass@ymail.com

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Roscommon People Friday 27 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

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

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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS

BIBLE STUDY

CAREERS

AN INVITATION:

CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

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

BLOCK AND BRICKLAYING

Padraic Cryan Block & Bricklaying • House & Commercial Developments CONTACT PADRAIC ON: 086 2867950 OR EMAIL padraiccryan@gmail.com

CHIMNEY CLEANING

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

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

CAREER ASSESSMENT, GUIDANCE & COUNSELLING 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

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.

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

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.

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

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

The local paper!

Tel: 087 2798704

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

Foot Care Practitioner

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

CHIROPODIST

COUNSELLING

FOOT CLINIC ROSCOMMON – MOLLOYS PHARMACY

COUNSELLING & HYPNOTHERAPY

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

By Appointment Only – Tel 087 2982214 Catriona Byrne DIP CHFP

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

CLEANING SERVICES CLEANING SERVICES AVAILABLE: Contact Marita on 086 0645853.

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

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

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

Patrick Lynch Clinical Dental Technician

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

DRIVING LESSONS

SYL’s

School of Motoring

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

Call (085) 1348779

ACCOUNTS

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

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

Contact: 085 1348779

DRIVING LESSONS

Paul McStay

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

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

DOCKERY’S SCHOOL OF MOTORING • ROSCOMMON

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

(094) 98 80281/ (087) 2031909

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

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

Learn to drive with ....

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Roscommon Driving School

www.aclearsteerdriving.com

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

TEL: 086 2387528

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Classifieds

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

FARMING

FOR SALE

< 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.

< 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.

< 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: Mare donkey due to foal. Athlone/Roscommon area. ALSO children’s pony, very friendly. Passports available. Phone: 090 64 89048 after 6.30pm. < FOR SALE: Bales of silage. Good quality. Donamon area. Phone: 090 66 62675 or 087 7400331. < ROUND BALES of silage for sale. Scramogue area. Tel: 086 3412154.

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: Sony PS4 as new. Price - €200, negotiable. Phone: 090 66 29640/087 0937669 or email may.earley@gmail.com

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

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

DANGEROUS TREE REMOVAL SERVICE

GARDENING 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

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

Find us on facebook

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

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

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

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

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

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon

Phone: (086) 3614230

KENNELS 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

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

HOLISTIC

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

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

PLANNINGS

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

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

● Amatsu Therapy ● Neuromuscular therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

Tel: 087 2721757

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

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

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

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR For all your decorating needs

CONTACT JOHN 086 4679798

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to erect dwelling house, domestic garage, install waste water treatment unit with polishing filter and to construct ancillary site works at Cuilleen, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Sean Kenny and Deirdre Naughton. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, McSharry Bros. Manufacturing (old brick site) intend to make application to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to demolish existing office, refurbish and extend existing front elevation to include new entrance, office, reception area and spare parts two storey store, associated site works and services at Coolteige, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Gaynor Architectural & Design Services Ltd., Architects, Fallon Avenue, Roscommon. Phone: 090 66 26974 Mob: 086 8115449.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying for planning permission for Retention of Change of Use of premises from residential dwelling house to Medical Centre at Demesne, Frenchpark, Roscommon. Signed: Dr. Catherine Donnelly.

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

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

www.morrislohan.ie ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I am applying for planning permission for erection of four bay animal shed, incorporating slatted pens and slurry storage tanks, with ancillary development on farm at Scregg, Knockcroghery. Signed: Patrick Glennon. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers are applying to Roscommon County Council on behalf of Tom and Bridie Fitzmaurice for planning permission to retain as built domestic garage on site at Quarry Springs, Ardnanagh Td., Roscommon. Signed: Morris Lohan Consulting Engineers, Castle Street, Roscommon, Ph Office: 090 6627950, Andy 086 3646210, James 087 8228529, info@morrislohan.ie. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Concept Design, 16 North Main Street, Bandon, Co. Cork (023) 8854904 on behalf of The Kepak Group intend to apply for Permission for Retention for the as constructed 2.4m high security fence, entrance barriers and turnstiles along the front roadside boundary of the site and Planning Permission for the following: i) Construct a new detached dispatch office to front elevation, ii) Construct a new entrance lobby along with fenestration changes to the front elevation of the existing office and amenities block and all associated site works at Cloonykelly, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Concept Design. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Classifieds PLANNINGS ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL ARAS AN CHONTAE, ROSCOMMON, COUNTY ROSCOMMON Curraghleen, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. I, Gerard McManus, wish to apply to Roscommon County Council for planning permission to construct a new horse stable and store shed and enclosed riding area with associated parking/ turning area and all ancillary site works. Signed: Gerard McManus. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED CHAZEY PROPERTIES: We require properties for waiting tenants, we advertise, conduct viewings, arrange references, read meters, set up tenancy agreements and arrange direct debit payments straight into your bank. We charge a one off fee only if we are successful in renting your property. If not no fees are payable. Call (086) 8212732.

TO RENT: Two bed house in the Ballymoe area. All mod cons, OFCH, solid fuel stove. Fully furnished. Contact: 086 6382123. < FOR RENT: 3 bedroom bungalow available from February. Loughglynn area. Phone Tom on 086 0815802. < 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. < ROOMS TO LET: Owner occupier, sharing. Modern house, first let. Professionals only. Non-smokers only. Phone: 086 3050328.

PSYCHIC DOLORES PSYCHIC MEDIUM CLAIRVOYANT

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

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

REFLEXOLOGY

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

Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon

Tel: 087 2264951 Find us on facebook

SEPTIC TANKS

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

TELEPHONE MICHAEL HAVERTY: 086 8381227 or 086 1997815

SITUATIONS VACANT CHILDMINDER REQUIRED to mind two children in Roscommon town. Monday-Friday. Own transport essential for creche pick-up. Fluent English essential. Please reply to Box No: 971, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < EXPERIENCED AND MATURE CHILDMINDER REQUIRED: 3 days per week: Monday-Wednesday afternoon, 12.30-6pm. Derrane area. To mind two children in their own home. Fluent English and own car essential for school collection. Tel: 087 6287969. < PERSON REQUIRED to mind adult with special needs. Full training will be provided. Flexible hours. Phone: 087 4658758. < CLEANER REQUIRED one morning per week. Roscommon town. Please reply to Box No: 972, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < FIRST STEPS CRECHE, GLENAMADDY - Person required with FETAC Level 6. Experience essential. Please phone 086 3704193 for further details.

SITUATIONS VACANT < LIVE-IN CARER REQUIRED - ROSCOMMON TOWN: Carer required for elderly lady in good health. Must be very patient, kind and dependable. Own bedroom, sitting room, WIFI and food supplied. Live-in 4 days per week, €200. Call 086 3595957.

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

SITUATIONS WANTED < 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.

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

– Contact –

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire

086 2670670

Car & Mini Bus Hire

BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

(086) 2714879

HUGH KILDUFF Hackney Service (086) 2479829 OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

We cannot guarantee publication after this time

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

Junior and Leaving Certificate Higher and Ordinary Level Experienced Higher Level Teacher Outstanding results record Limited places still available

Lorraine Beirne 086 3688302

Padraig Healy

Call car direct

ROSCOMMON MATHS GRINDS

Contact by phone/text:

Roscommon

Wheelchair Accessible

TUITION

KELLY’S EYE Taxi and Mini Bus hire.

PHONE: 087-2727888. TUITION

EMAIL: roscommonmathsgrinds @gmail.com

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

TURF, FIREWOOD AND FUEL < THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS: • Bags of seasoned timber €2 per bag, buy 20 bags get 2 free • Bags of top quality black turf only €2.50 per bag, buy 20 get 2 free. €75 DEAL: 1 tonne logs + 1 tonne turf, 2 bags 20kg coal + 1 free bale briquettes: for €75 • Tonne bags of turf and timber €35 delivered. ALSO PACKAGE DEAL: 1 bale of briquettes, 1 bag of logs, 3 bags of turf, delivered only €10. Price cannot be beaten. Contact Tom: 086 2628439. WANTED: Fallen trees for firewood. Ash, Beech, Birch, Sycamore and Whitethorn. Good price paid. We are safety certified and insured. Phone: 086 2437376. FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Hardwood - Ash and Whitethorn. Tel: 086 2437376.

< 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.

< COAL FOR SALE: 20kg bags of household coal only €7 per bag delivered. Buy 20 bags, get 1 bag free. Contact Tom: 086 2628439.

< JUNIOR CERTIFICATE MATHS TUITION: All levels. Roscommon town. Education and Guidance. Professional/experienced teacher. Mobile: 083 4843192 Email: mariag21@eircom. net

< 2016 SHED STORED turf for sale. Full and half loads. ALSO firewood for sale. Tel: 087 3831953.

< 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.

< BAGS OF TURF FOR SALE. ALSO round bales of hay. Tel: 086 3776948.

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

TV Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

GRINDS IN JUNIOR AND LEAVING CERTIFICATE BUSINESS AND ACCOUNTING Tutoring for college students in Business, Accountancy and Taxation.

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

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

OIL BOILER SERVICE

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

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

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

Contact: 087 6718564

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

Contact Vincent on 083 4130827 < MAN AVAILABLE FOR CHIMNEY REPAIRS, ROOFING, RE-ROOFING AND ALL TYPES OF WORK: Roof lights fitted, re-roofing, facia board and gutter repairs, roofing, flat roofing, timber, slating, tiling, stone work, chimney repairs, Insurance claims handled, attic conversions, lights, general building, etc. All types of farm work, repairs to sheds, cattle crushes, yards, concrete, fencing and painting. Contact: 087 9188170. < FURNITURE REMOVALS DELIVERY SERVICE: Household and office furniture removals. Large and small loads to all areas. Phone for free quotation: 086 2649313. Email: homemoversrc@gmail. com < SAFE ELECTRIC REGISTERED ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE for work. Small jobs a speciality. Call 087 4634888 anytime. < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Rewires, first and second fix new houses, fuse board upgrade. All farm buildings and sheds, security lighting and garden lights. Tel Tom on 086 0815802. < ELECTRICIAN AVAILABLE: Safe electric registered. All work considered. No job too small. Phone Paul on 086 2553153 anytime or email: p0862553153@gmail.com < SHANE NAUGHTON ROOFING CONTRACTOR Roofing, slating, tiling, 1st and 2nd fixing and flooring. All aspects of carpentry and building undertaken. Tel: 086 3155329.

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

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Appointments Expressions of Interest Subcontractors and others

We are now recruiting for the following position at Fleming’s Supervalu, Roscommon

ROSCOMMON We are recruiting for a

FULL-TIME BEAUTY SALES ASSISTANT for our Roscommon Store THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE A: • Passion and enthusiasm for all things beauty related • Hardworking, self-motivated and team orientated • Retails and Sales focused • Can work off their own initiative • Flexible and pro-active • Can work off their own initiative • Creative mind-set with merchandising abilities • Exceptional customer service skills • Good computing skills • Strong communication skills • Open to self-development opportunities Note: Previous retail experience is an advantage and/or qualification/interest in the beauty industry e.g. Make-up application, cosmetics, skincare, skin conditions and social media influences

PLEASE APPLY WITH COVER LETTER AND CV TO: sabrina@molloyspharmacy.com Closing Date: 2nd February 2017 Please reference ‘Roscommon’ in the subject box

CASTLE STREET SURGERY (www.cssdoctor.ie)

Are you customer focused and ambitious? Do you have organisation and communication skills? Why not join our team!

1. Deli Sales Assistant We are looking for staff who can help maintain the above departments efficiently and effectively at all times, providing our customers with excellent quality standards and customer service, which comes from having a passion for what you do. Previous experience is essential. SuperValu is an equal opportunities employer. Please forward your CV clearing stating which position you’re applying for, in strictest confidence to: The Manager, Fleming’s Supervalu, Main Street, Roscommon Closing date for receipt of completed applications is: COB February 4th, 2017

This role may suit a junior receptionist with no general practice experience, who is enthusiastic, capable and organised. Excellent IT skills required

EMAIL: careers@cssdoctor.ie

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.

• Blocklayers • Plasterers • Plumbers • Carpenters • Electricians • Landscapers • Kitchen Suppliers • Painters • Pavers • Fascia & Soffit - All Trades - Handymen - General Labour - C2, Insurance - Vat Registered preferred but not essential

PLEASE REPLY TO: Box No: 973, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

Emlagh Lodge Veterinary Centre, Elphin, Co. Roscommon

REQUIRE FULL TIME RECEPTIONIST TO COVER MATERNITY LEAVE Suitable applicant should have experience of working independently in a busy environment. Computer skills essential and knowledge of Sage accounts desirable.

We are now recruiting for the following position at Fleming’s Supervalu, Roscommon

Please send CV to emlaghvets@gmail.com

Are you customer focused and ambitious? Do you have organisation and communication skills? Why not join our team!

CUSTOMER SERVICE EXECUTIVE

2. Weekend Duty Manager (24hrs/week)

Required for Wholesale Business in Roscommon Town

Main Duties and Responsibilities: The role of the Duty Manager will involve the Supervision of the Store and Staff on rostered Sundays. Hours will include 2 out of 3 Sundays and other times requested by management.

Our busy office is currently seeking a professional, friendly person with excellent customer focus to join our team. POSITION REQUIREMENTS: • Provide exceptional Customer Service at all times • Ensure Customer queries and questions are dealt with efficiently and in a timely manner • Liaise and Assist with Operations, Sales Departments and Suppliers • Handle selected Customer Accounts • General Administration Duties SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST HAVE: • Excellent communication, organisational and multi-tasking skills • High level of administration skills • Ability to deal with customers in a professional manner • The ability to work on own initiative as well as contributing to the team • An energetic and enthusiastic attitude

SuperValu is an equal opportunities employer Please forward your CV clearing stating which position you’re applying for, in strictest confidence to: The Manager, Fleming’s Supervalu, Main Street, Roscommon Closing date for receipt of completed applications is: February 4th, 2017

is looking for a

RECEPTIONIST

CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS ROSCOMMON/WESTMEATH AREAS

BUSY OFFICE IN THE BALLAGHADERREEN AREA REQUIRES

RECEPTIONIST/ ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT WITH THE FOLLOWING SKILLS: • Proficient in Excel and Word • Knowledge of an accounts package would be of benefit • Exceptional phone manner as well as great interpersonal skills and planning skills with great attention to detail • Ability to work as part of a team as well as willing to work on their own initiative

PLEASE SEND YOUR CV TO: Box Number 974, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon

FEARNA MANOR NURSING HOME HEALTH CARE ASSISTANTS REQUIRED Must have QQI/Fetac Level 5

Please submit your CV by email to: hrfearna@gmail.com OR BY POST TO: Fearna Manor Nursing Home, Tarmon Road, Castlerea by Friday 3rd February

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.

PLEASE FORWARD RESUME TO: businessroscommon@gmail.com

ARE YOU LOOKING TO UPSKILL FOR EMPLOYMENT OR PROGRESS TO COLLEGE? The RWN Training Services Castlerea are now recruiting for our Courses at QQI Levels 3 4 & 5 in Retail Practices, Employment Skills and Information Technology. Receive additional Payments while you train.

For more information or to book a place on a course, Call 094 96 21691 or text 086 8099154

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

THE MOST READ NEWSPAPER IN COUNTY ROSCOMMON!

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES IN MEMORIAM

DORAN Denis ‘Acres House’, Roscommon (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Denis (Denny), who passed away on 15th January 2012 R.I.P. Our Lady of Knock Pray for him Somewhere beyond the sunset Where loved ones never die You sleep in a beautiful garden Beneath a golden sky. Though Heaven and earth divide us We are never far apart For you are always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts.

Lovingly remembered by your wife Eithne, daughters Denise and Rachael, sons Thomas and David, sons-inlaw, daughters-in-law and loving grandchildren xxxx Anniversary Mass on Tuesday 31st January 2017 in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 10.30am.

THORN (nee Fallon) Ethel Maidstone, Kent U.K. and formerly of Toberdan, Lecarrow

Bertie, Nora, sisters, brothers and extended family of Ethel who sadly passed away on 6th August 2016, would like to extend their sincere thanks to all those who attended the Mass and Internment of Ethel’s ashes on 28th December in St. John’s Church and Cemetery, Lecarrow. A special thanks to Fr. Ray Milton, the Choir and those who helped with preparing the Cemetery before and after. Our heartfelt thanks to neighbours, relations, friends and clergy who rallied around us in the days and weeks after Ethel’s sudden passing. Your help and support has and always will be appreciated. Thanks to all those who sent Mass Cards and messages of condolences, which has made our loss more bearable.

FARRELL Patrick

KENNY Paddy

KENNEDY Mary

Rooskey, Roscommon (1st Anniversary)

Aughmaghree, Kilteevan Who passed away 17th of January 2011 (6th Anniversary)

Corbo, Kilrooskey Who passed away 4th of February 2009 (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Patrick Farrell, Rooskey, who died on 1st February 2016 May he Rest in Peace

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by his loving daughter Ann, grandchildren Conner and Ciera, family and friends. Always in our thoughts and prayers.

LYONS Mikie Creeve, Donamon, Roscommon (1st Anniversary )

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

Lovingly remembered by Marie, Vincent, Philip and Alex. Anniversary Mass on First Friday, 3rd of February in Kilteevan Church at 8pm.

MURRAY (nee Nolan) Bridget In loving memory of Mikie who passed away on 27th January 2016 A silent thought A quiet prayer For a special person in God’s care.

Always remembered by his sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Anniversary Mass in St Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish on Sunday 29th January at 11am.

COSTELLO Ann Cloonbrackna Court, Roscommon (7th Anniversary)

Ballinross and Weekfield, Co. Roscommon (4th Anniversary) Who passed away 2nd of February 2013 Aged 69 years

May the winds of Heaven blow softly And whisper in your ear How much we love and miss you And wish you were still here.

Forever loved and truly missed by her loving husband Charles, daughters Cathriona and Paula, son-in-law Eugene and grandchildren.

Always loved by Marie and Vincent, Philip and Alex, Christopher and Hilary, granddaughter Eva and Frank and greatgrandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 4th February in Derrane Church at 7pm.

GATELY Dara Castlecoote, Roscommon 5th Anniversary - 24th January

In loving memory of a dear son Along the road of suffering You found a little lane; That took you up to Heaven, And ended all your pain. You may be out of sight, We may be world’s apart; But you are always in our prayers, And forever in our hearts. To live in the hearts of those we love is not to die. Rest in Peace

Sadly missed by her husband Eddie, sister Kathleen, nieces Caroline, Monica, Kathy and Clare, nephews PJ and Pat. Everlasting memories of Ann, who died on 28th January 2010

How I wish I could say, I’ll go and see my mum today. To hear her voice, To see her smile, To sit and talk with her a while, To have her here The same old way, Would be my greatest wish today.

Time cannot erase the sorrow and the pain that I feel Nor can it make things better Or force my heart to heal. Time is now a measure of the days since you’ve been gone Of getting by the best I can And trying to be strong. Time should mend a broken heart That’s what they say But time will never change the fact that you’ve gone away.

Sadly missed by his dad Eamon, aunts, uncles and grandparents. Anniversary Mass to be held in Fuerty Church on Sunday 29th January at 11.30am.

HANNON (nee Quinn) Teresa Bornacurra, Ballygar, Co. Galway (2nd Anniversary)

Treasured memories of our beloved mother and grandmother, Teresa Hannon (nee Quinn), late of Bornacurra, Ballygar, Co. Galway, who died on January 29th 2015 God saw you getting tired A cure was not to be He wrapped you in His loving arms and whispered ‘Come with me’. You suffered much in silence Your spirit did not bend. You faced the pain with courage Until the very end. You tried so hard to stay with us But your fight was not in vain God took you to His loving home and freed you from the pain. With tearful eyes we watched you slowly fade away Although we loved you dearly We could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating Hard working hands at rest God broke our hearts to prove to us He only takes the best.

Forever loved and sadly missed by your loving sons John, Joseph and Kevin, daughters Ann and Mary, daughter-in-law Anne, son-in-law John and her grandchildren Lisamarie, Shauna, Rachel and Ciara. ~~~~~~~~~~~~ NANNY We are sending a butterfly to Heaven With a parcel on its wings Be careful when you open it nanny It’s full of beautiful things. Inside are a million kisses Inside are a million tears Wrapped up in a million hugs To say how much we miss you And to send you all our love.

Love your grandchildren, Lisamarie, Shauna, Rachel and Ciara xxxx Teresa’s Second Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Brendan’s Church, Toghergar on Sunday 29th January at 9.30am. Say a Rosary in her name May her gentle soul Rest in Peace

MULRYAN (nee Fallon) Mary (Ciss) St. Ciaran’s Park, Roscommon (10th Anniversary)

In loving memory of our mother, Ciss, who died on the 27th January 2007 No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you

Always remembered by Fred, Sadie, Shane and Karen. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The memory of your love for us will never fade away, You’re in our hearts and you’re on our minds every single day.

Loved forever by Haul (Michael) and family Edel, Elaine, Adrian, Deirdre, Raphael, Caio and Anna. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Remembering you is easy, I do it everyday. Missing you is the heartache that never goes away. You gave all you had to give, Gifts both great and small, But most of all you gave your love, The greatest gift of all.

Always remembered by your loving daughter, Ann xxx ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Deep in our hearts your memory is kept, To love and cherish and never forget. To us you were someone special, With pride we speak your name. Though life goes on without you, It will never be the same.

Lovingly remembered by Tommy, Lynda, Marie and Ernie, Darren and Sara Jane and grandsons Noah and Albie, Middlesex, England xxx ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ How I wish I could say I’ll go and see my Mum today To hear her voice to see her smile To sit and talk to her a while. To have her here the same old way Would be my greatest wish today.

Always loved and dearly missed by Seamus and Catherine, Tara and Mark and all the Mulryan family - Jamie, Nicola, Katie Joe and Bella, Gary and Loretta, Dwayne, Abbie, Corey, Lewis and Zoe, Michelle, Kenneth, Ryan, Ethan and Callum, Mike-Frank, Caitriona and Molly, Donna, Aidan and Penny.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

FamilyNotices

Rosshill Farm hosts Irish Stallion Trail

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES HANLEY (nee O’Neill) Peg Mount Cashel, Kilrooskey, Co. Roscommon Who died on 26th December 2016

McDONNELL Teresa and James

CORCORAN Carmel and Michael

Lisnagabra, Four Roads, Co. Roscommon In loving memory of Teresa, who died on 23rd November 2007 Aged 94 years and James, who died on 14th December 1992 Aged 84 years (9th and 24th Anniversaries)

Killoy, Lecarrow (14th and 37th Anniversaries)

Cherished memories of Carmel, who died on 25th January 2003 and Michael, who did on 7th January 1980 Peg’s daughter Majella, son Gerard, son-in-law Joe, granddaughter Emma and family would like to express our sincere gratitude to all who sympathised and supported us on the death of our beloved mother. Our heartfelt thanks to our neighbours, friends and relatives who called to our home and to all who attended the Removal, Requiem Mass and Burial. Thank you to all who sent Mass Cards, Enrolments, made phone calls and to those who made donations to Roscommon Palliative Care. We wish to thank all who provided refreshments, in particular to John and Noeleen of Fallon’s Bar, Ballygar. We also wish to say a huge thank you to everyone who visited Peg at home and in hospital during her brief illness. We wish to thank Fr. Dusmanta Adm, Ballagh for delivering such a thoughtful and meaningful Funeral Mass, to Fr. Michael Breslin PP Ballygar, Fr. Dominic Gillooley PE St. Anne’s Sligo and to Fr. Eamon O’Connor PP Strokestown for con-celebrating the Requiem Mass. A special word of thanks to Fr. Sean Beirne and to Sr. Gabriel Mee of the Pastoral Care team for all their prayers and support and to all the clergy who visited Peg during her illness. Thank you to the Sacristan who prepared the Church for the Funeral and a word of thanks to Pat and Tom Smyth, for their professionalism and dignified manner in carrying out the Funeral arrangements. Thanks to Theresa Costello for beautifying the ceremony with her music and to the gravediggers for preparing Peg’s final place of rest. We offer a heartfelt thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff of Galway and Roscommon University Hospitals for the exceptional care that they showed to Peg during her illness. We would like to express a special word of thanks to Dr. O’Loughlin and his team at Roscommon University Hospital for the dignified and professional manner in which they cared for Peg and to Geraldine Keane of the Palliative Care team for looking after Peg so well and for the comfort and support that she provided to both Peg and us. To the nurses, carers and catering staff of St. Coman’s Ward, Roscommon University Hospital, who cared exceptionally for Peg right until the end and for the kindness that they showed to us during our stay at the hospital - thank you. A sincere word of thanks to the community nurses - Ursula, Niamh and Caroline who visited Peg during her brief stay at home. We would like to thank Peg’s GP and staff of the Medical Centre, Roscommon and to Dr. Niall Walsh for the care he provided throughout the years. A heartfelt thanks to the staff of Johnston’s Pharmacies for their help and assistance. Our thanks also to the staff of Lifeline Ambulance Service for assisting us in taking Peg to her appointments at Galway University Hospital. A sincere word of thanks to our neighbours, Eileen and Frank Feeley for all their help during Peg’s illness and for the help that they provided during and after the Funeral, it is much appreciated. To the Regan family, The Square, Roscommon for providing the beautiful meal after the Burial - thank you. As it would not be possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. Peg’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Ballagh on Friday 27th January at 8pm.

McCRANN Noel and Kathleen Castle Street, Roscommon (6th and 28th Anniversaries)

Special memories keep them near, As time unfolds another year. Each of us in our own way Have special thoughts of them today.

Always remembered by their loving family. Anniversary Mass in the Church of the Good Shepherd, Four Roads on Sunday 29th January at 11am.

BOLAND Miceal Cloonkeen, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Who was called to Heaven on the 26th January 2016

Many a lovely memory Many a silent tear Always treasured memories Of parents we loved so dear.

Loved and remembered always by your sons and daughters, Marie, Padraig, Annette, Seamus and Micheál, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 18th February in Knockcroghery Church at 7pm. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CORCORAN Carmel (14th Anniversary) No longer in our lives to share But in our hearts you’re always there.

Lovingly remembered by your sister Phil, brother-in-law Donald and family. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CORCORAN Carmel (14th Anniversary) Miceal’s wife Patricia, together with his sisters Mary and Goretti, brothers Paddy and Marty and their extended families wish to sincerely thank all those who sympatised with us on our sad loss. Thank you to all those who called to our home, attended the Funeral, sent Mass Cards, letters of sympathy and for all the donations to Cancer Care West and the Irish Kidney Association, following the death of Miceal. We thank all those who travelled long distances to be with us. A special word of thanks to our wonderful and kind neighbours, cousins, aunts, friends and work colleagues who helped and supported us, prepared and brought refreshments to our home and shared treasured memories and who helped out managing traffic at both our home and the Church. Thank you to Ollie and Breege Hester and all the staff of the Golden Eagle, Castlerea for the beautiful meal. A special word of thanks to all the doctors and staff at Kelly Henry Medical Centre, Castlerea for their care to Miceal throughout the years. To the Community Health Nurses who Miceal attended over the last year - thank you. A deep word of gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff of Galway University Hospital, Merlin Park University Hospital and Portiuncula University Hospital in Ballinasloe where Miceal was cared for over the last number of years. A special word of thanks to Canon Joe Fitzgerald and Fr. Christopher Byrnes for all their spiritual support and to the choir in Trien for a truly lovely Funeral Mass. Thanks to Pat and Nicola McDonagh, McDonagh Undertakers for their kindness, thoughtfulness and to the gravediggers for preparing Miceal’s final resting place. As it is not possible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Miceal’s Anniversary Mass will take place in St. Caolin’s Church, Trien on Friday 27th January at 8pm.

Sadly missed along life’s way Quietly remembered every day.

Sadly missed by your brother Tom, sister-in-law Kitty and family.

SCANLON Sean (20th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Sean, late of Emlaghroyan, Donamon, who died on 29th January 1997 R.I.P. No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you.

Lovingly remembered by his sons, brother, sisters and extended family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 4th February 2017 in Cloverhill Church at 8pm.

FAMILY NOTICES Nothing can ever take away The love our hearts hold dear Fond memories linger everyday Remembrance keeps them near.

Always loved and remembered by all your loving family. Anniversary Mass on Monday 30th January at 8am in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon.

Call into our office Abbey Street, Roscommon Phone: (090) 66 34633 Email: advertising@roscommonpeople.ie OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2.30PM ON TUESDAY

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The third running of the Irish Thoroughbred Marketing (ITM) Irish Stallion Trail will take place on this weekend, Saturday, 28th January. The weekend trail takes place again in between two premium days of racing with the Goffs Thyestes Handicap Chase at Gowran Park on Thursday, 26th January, followed by the BHP Insurances Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown on Sunday, 29th January. Rosshill Farm in Galway is the closest venue taking part and will host its open day this Saturday (28th) 10 am-3 pm.

Free advice workshops on Sports funding Senator Frank Feighan has received confirmation from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport that free advice workshops to assist clubs and organisations interested in making an application under the 2017 Sports Capital Programme will be held in Athlone and Sligo. “I have confirmed that the two nearest regional workshops will take place at the Athlone Institute of Technology on Tuesday, 7th of February from 7 pm-9 pm while another workshop will take place at the Sligo Regional Sports Centre on Monday, 13th of February, also from 7 pm-9 pm. “In partnership with local Sports Partnerships, the Department is organising these workshops to assist and guide those completing their applications for Sports Capital Funding. These workshops will provide a very good opportunity for clubs and organisations to avail of free expert advice. “It is important to remember that you must a book a place on these workshops. The booking links for the Athlone and Sligo events are https://www.eventbrite. ie/e/2017-sports-capitalprogramme-workshop-athlone-tickets-31223461213 and https://www.eventbrite. ie/e/2017-sports-capital-programme-workshop-sligotickets-31223757098 respectively. “Once the booking is made, you will receive a booking confirmation email and you should bring this with you to the event. “Further details on the 2017 Sports Capital Programme can be accessed at www. sportscapitalprogramme.ie and from next Monday, 23rd of January, the Department will be accepting completed applications. “The deadline for applications is 5 pm on Friday, 24th of February but you must register online first to apply if you have not done so. The deadline for registration is 5 pm on Friday, 10th of February.”

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THANKSGIVING NOTICES UNFAILING PRAYER TO ST. ANTHONY Blessed be God in His Angels and in His Saints Oh Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the ‘Saint of Miracles’. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. E.L. THE MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked you for many favours. This time I ask this you for this special favour. (mention it). Take it Dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your own broken heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour, not mine. Say for three days and promise publication and favour will be granted no matter how impossible. E.L.

PRAYER TO ST. PADRE PIO O God, You gave Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, Capuchin Priest, the great privilege of participating in a unique way in the passion of your son, grant me through his intercession the grace of ...... which I ardently desire; and above all grant me the grace of living in conformity with the death of Jesus, to arrive at the glory of the resurrection. Glory of the resurrection. Glory be to the father... (3 times). M.C. PRAYER TO ST. EXPEDITE For urgent need... Our dear martyr and protector, Saint Expedite, you who know what is necessary and what is urgently needed. I beg you to intercede before the Holy Trinity, that by your grace my request will be granted. (Clearly express what you want and ask him to find a way to get it to you.) May I receive your blessings and favours. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen. If Saint Expedite grants your request, place fresh flowers beside his statue in your home or in the church. Also promise publication to thank him. Grateful for a very special request granted. Thank you also to St. Jude, St. Teresa, St. Philomena, St. Anne, Our Lady undoer of Knots, Sacred Heart of Jesus, St. Michael, St. Gabriel, Raphel and Memorare prayer and all the saints and angels. M.C.

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.

This weekend’s action Racing in Ireland today is at Gowran Park featuring the Thyestes Chase and Galmoy Hurdle with first away at 12.50 pm. Tomorrow’s meeting is on the flat at the allweather in Dundalk with stalls opening for the first at 5.30 pm. Saturday’s racing takes place at Naas with the first away at 1 pm. On Sunday, racing is at Leopardstown featuring 2 Grade 1 races, the Irish Champion Hurdle and the Frank Ward Arkle Novice Chase starting at 1.30 pm. The going is soft at Gowran today and standard at Dundalk tomorrow night. On Saturday at Naas the ground is yielding to soft and good, good to yielding, at Leopardstown for Sunday. Gordon Elliott, seeking his first Thyestes has declared 7 of the 18 horses in the race at Gowran this afternoon including 2 of Gigginstown’s 6 declared. He has left in top weight Roi de Franc and Jack Kennedy rides Prince of Scars for the Mullingar based outfit who have 4 more. Tom Taaffe runs the probable favourite in Rogue Trader for JP McManus. In a wide open race cases can also be made for Willie Mullins’ Present Company, Noel Meade’s Measureofmydreams, Elliott’s Ucello Conti with Daryl Jacob and 3rd reserve The Crafty Butcher if he gets in. However with Jack Kennedy opting for the novice Prince of Scars, my vote goes to this son of Flemensfirth who will relish the going and step up in trip. Faugheen will make his reappearance at Leopardstown in the Irish Champion Hurdle on Sunday where he will meet 5 opponents. The Willie Mullins trained 9-Y-O won the 2015 Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham going on to complete the Irish/

Jezki, green and gold, skips the last, with Renneti in maroon and Tombstone in pink.

English double 12 months ago. He suffered an injury after Leopardstown and has not been seen since. Mullins is seeking 7 in a row having won the race with Hurricane Fly from 2011 to 2015, also has Nichols Canyon, Footpad and Ivan Grozny to call on. Former stable companion the Gigginstown owned Petit Mouchoir now trained by Henry de Bromhead and Joseph O’Brien’s Ivanovich Gorbatov complete the picture. The Co Waterford trained horse beat Nichols Canyon and Ivanovich Gorbatov in the Ryanair Hurdle here over the Christmas will be the main danger.

Racing news Jezki made a winning return to the track at Navan on Saturday over 2 miles comfortably beating Renneti and Tombstone 1¾l and 1l in a conditions hurdle. On Sunday at Leopardstown Heartbreak City, the clear fav 6/4 and 5’s bar, finished 8th, 2½l down, in the Coral Hurdle beaten in which his stablemates, at Tony Martin’s Co Meath yard, Tudor City and Golden Spear filled the

minor places ½l and the same behind Noel Meade’s Ice Cold Soul. In the Coral Chase the fav. A Toi Phil gave the punters a win beating the well backed Stellar Notion and Rolly Baby a neck and 1½l.

Cheltenham watch Shock news from Closutton yesterday with the announcement that the Champion Hurdler Annie Power is out of this year’s race and possibly out for the season. The 9–Y-O mare, who was expected to turn out at Punchestown next month, suffered a leg injury in training according to WP Mullins. The horse has not been seen in competitive action since winning the Aintree Hurdle last April.

General news Churchill has been named Champion 2–Y-O with a rating of 122. The son of Galileo is Aidan O’Brien’s 9th champion and is 6-4 fav in the antepost lists for the Guineas. Last Monday saw confirmation that bookmakers Ladbrokes will be the new sponsor of the New-

bury Hennessy Gold Cup, bringing an end of longest sponsorship deal in British racing - 60 years.

Point to Point view Racing starts this weekend on Saturday in the North overlooking the Irish sea at Tyrella. Nenagh in Tipperary and Ballyvodack outside Midleton in Cork host meetings on Sunday. All meetings are down for a 12.30 pm start. Galwayman Derek O’Connor has passed another milestone in his unequalled p2p career riding his 1,100th winner when completing a double aboard Staker Wallace at Kilfeacle for Enda Bolger and JP McManus. The combination had won the earlier Open race with Colour Squadron. The eleven times champion rider rode his first winner at Killaloe in 2000. The Co. Roscommon Hunt is holding a party night in Carthy’s this Saturday night and all land owners over whose farms they hunt are invited along for a night of ceol agus craic. Buffet food will be served between 8.30 pm and 10 pm sharp.

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Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

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Neighbours get shirty! Mayo snatch FBD victory with late goals Roscommon and Mayo players get physical following an off the ball incident during last Sundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FBD League match in Kiltoom. Pic: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

SportsPeople

Pictured at the Creggs RFC press night on Tuesday night last were Sean Brandon, Secretary of Creggs RFC and Kieran Dowd, Chairman of Creggs RFC. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Creggs RFC press night on Tuesday night last were Alan Glennon, Michael Farrell, Kevin Brandon and Enda Tully. Picture: Andrew Fox

Creggs ready to shine in Junior Cup < DAN DOONER

Bright floodlights illuminate the approach road into Creggs on most nights. The location of the light may alter slightly but they are rarely switched off. High electricity bills must be the price a village pays for churning out successful sports teams. It brings to mind the US American Football drama ‘Friday Night Lights’ except this is a wet and windy Tuesday night and the only cheerleaders around are a handful of club officials. One thing most amateur sports people will tell you, whether they be senior

footballers, junior rugby players or Sunday League soccer players is that there’s no glamour or glory in shuttle runs on a muddy pitch in the middle of January. The reason brave souls have traveled from as far away as Longford and Galway for a midweek training session is the same reason Andrew Fox and I once again find ourselves in Creggs. The masters of the oval ball are preparing for a huge Connacht Junior Cup Quarter-Final against the impressive Ballinasloe this Sunday. That Creggs are underdogs is accepted with a nonplussed shrug in these parts, they’re well used

to that. Captain Tom Callaghan jogs over. He’s an impressive unit and has the kind of experience that will be vital in the heat of battle this weekend. He shakes hands and tries to keep limber as he looks back on the journey so far. “We kind of had a slow start, we’ve a lot of students and with exams it was hard,” he says almost apologetically. He provides a glimpse into the level of commitment that exists among the squad. “We trained four or five nights over Christmas and there was a big turnout for that. There are a lot of lads who aren’t from

Creggs but that doesn’t stop them being here midweek – the dedication shows that the club is going strong,” he says. The former Sligo Grammar player knows that the punishing midweek work is vital in order to get a taste of the real glory on Sunday afternoons. “A lot of the lads have part-time jobs and we try to work around that. We generally train on Friday nights but we try to be accommodating, it’s never really a problem because the lads are committed,” he says with a nod towards the cones where coach Liam Callaghan is putting the

Pictured at the Creggs RFC press night on Tuesday night last were Aidan Leech, Seán Óg Higgins, Brian Donohue and Peter Lohan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Creggs RFC press night on Tuesday night last were Kevin O’Rourke, Tom and Liam Callaghan. Picture: Andrew Fox

team through passing drills. As for Sunday, Tom doesn’t seem like a guy who worries about the big occasion. “Yeah, we’re underdogs. We’re well used to that and they are in the league above us. We’re hoping to get a big turn-out and give a good performance,” he says as he shakes hands and jogs back to his teammates. Head coach Pat Cunningham and his coaching assistants Liam Callaghan and Kevin O’Rourke should have no trouble motivating their troops this Sunday afternoon at The Green. While on the field things are looking good for Creggs Rugby, this is more than matched by the club’s ambition off it. Club President, Kieran Dowd and secretary Seán

Brandon join us on the sideline and President Dowd tells us that plans are afoot to expand the playing facilities at the venue. His hand sweeps across the land beyond the training area as he explains: “We own four acres and we’re after buying another seven acres. Our aim is to have four full size pitches here.” As for potential success in Connacht, Dowd is keeping his feet firmly on the ground. “The aim is to get back to being one of the top junior teams and the Junior Cup is a fantastic trophy with a great history,” he says. Winning on Sunday would obviously be a huge step in the right direction for the club and would spark wild celebrations, but the president is also keeping the big-

ger picture in mind. “There’s more to it than winning cups. When you have 200 kids out here that’s what matters! The most exciting part for us is that rugby is becoming stronger in the locality, in schools like CBS and Community College in Roscommon and areas like Ballygar too,” he adds before proudly describing some of the club’s biggest moments, including a famous victory over a Galwegians team which featured Warren Gatland and Eric Elwood. Bigger picture there might be but what he and the rest of the former All-Ireland League club wouldn’t give for another Polaroid moment on Sunday afternoon as the team from the halfparish go in search of more Connacht glory.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

SportsPeople

This week’s awards

SICK AS AROSCOMMON PARROT/OVER THE MOON & DISTRICT LEAGUE NEWS

Game of the Week There were a couple of games worthy of this award but I’m going to go with Ballaghaderreen and Ballymoe’s thriller in Ballaghaderreen. The home side have been quite unfortunate in recent weeks but are definitely good value for money.

Win of the Week Hodson Bay Athletic travelled well this week and came away with three valuable points against Cam Celtic. They also kept a clean sheet which is quite rare!

‘Contract’ of the week Phillipe Coutinho the Brazilian will definitely spend the next five years in Liverpool. Definitely.

Creggs RFC Report

Dooner’s weekend predictions The predictions last weekend were similar to that of Man United’s chance conversion rate; fairly average but we eventually broke even! This weekend promises to be a bit better, hopefully.

Saturday, January 28th The Herald Premier Division Moore United v Shiven Rovers (7.45 pm) This could be a huge weekend for Moore. They need to win this first though. Prediction: Moore United Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 (7.30 pm) Cloonfad United v Kilkerrin United Cloonfad have been in poor form lately but they have been playing teams in the top four and losing nar-

rowly. A win here can turn that around. Prediction: Cloonfad United Glen Celtic v Dunmore Town The visitors have to be slight favourites. Prediction: Dunmore Town

Sunday, January 29th The Herald Premier Division Brazukas v Ballinasloe Town (11 am) The visitors are still in the hunt and will expect to gain ground this weekend. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town Ballymoe FC v Castlerea Celtic (2 pm) Before Christmas I would have had this down as a home win. Castlerea have slowly started to turn it around but neither side can really afford to lose.

Prediction: Draw Skyvalley Rovers v Ballaghaderreen FC (2 pm) The visitors have looked bright lately. Prediction: Ballaghaderreen FC Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 CP Ajax v Loughglynn United (11 am) In most other years CP Ajax would be challenging for the title albeit as outsiders. They should win on home turf. Prediction: CP Ajax Dysart FC v Rahara Rovers (11 am) I fancy Dysart to remain unbeaten for the rest of the league campaign. Prediction: Dysart FC Lough Harps v Ballinasloe Town B (2 pm) Harps will be hoping to keep in touch with Cloonfad in second place. Prediction: Lough Harps

Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 Dunmore Town B v Skyvalley Rovers B (11 am) Hard not to feel sympathy for Skyvalley Rovers as they continue to search for a win. Prediction: Dunmore Town B Moore United B v Cam Celtic (11 am) The home side should win this comfortably. Prediction: Moore United B Cloonfad United B v Roscommon United (2 pm) Roscommon United have impressed lately. Prediction: Roscommon United Hodson Bay Athletic v Strokestown United (2 pm) This promises to be one of the games of the weekend. Strokestown should have enough about them to claim

all three points. Prediction: Strokestown United Shiven Rovers B v Castlerea Celtic B (2 pm)

Difficult one to call and a draw looks most likely. Prediction: Draw

Soccer Results The Herald Premier Division Shiven Rovers 1 St. John’s Athletic 2 Ballaghaderreen FC 2 Ballymoe FC 3 Ahascragh United 0 Castlerea Celtic 7 Skyvalley Rovers 1 Ballinasloe Town 7 Norio’s Takeaway Division 1 Cloonfad United 0 Lough Harps 1 Ballinasloe Town 2 Kilkerrin United 0 Dysart FC 4 Glen Celtic 1 Rahara Rovers 2 CP Ajax 6 Killeen Sportsgrounds Division 2 Moore United 2 Shiven Rovers 0 Strokestown United v Cloonfad United, postponed. Ballinagare FC 0 Moylough ’79 0 Cam Celtic 0 Hodson Bay Athletic 1 Dunmore Town 2 Roscommon United 2 Skyvalley Rovers 0 Castlerea Celtic 0

THE GAIN LINE

Creggs reach Junior Cup last eight Connacht Junior Cup: Creggs 24 Dunmore 11. Creggs advanced to the quarter-finals of the Junior Cup but it took a converted try three minutes from time to see off Dunmore who were very much in contention to that point. Played in perfect conditions, Creggs roared into the game from the kickoff and within ten minutes were eight points ahead, thanks to a Brian Cleary penalty and a try from Aidan Leech in the left corner from which Cleary saw his conversion attempt rebound off the near post. Creggs continued to press but some sloppy handling allowed Dunmore to break out of defence and while Tom Fleming tracking back half the length of the field prevented a try against the run of play, Dunmore’s consolation arrived through a penalty converted by outhalf Darragh Walsh. Creggs pulled away again with a second penalty from Cleary on nineteen minutes and continued to dominate both territory and possession but another Dunmore break-out from defence presented Walsh with a second penalty chance which he converted to leave the score at 11-6. A case of déjà vu minutes later when another handling error by Creggs presented

the visitors with a counter attacking opportunity, again a penalty ensued, this time Walsh spurned the posts opting for a kick to the corner and from the line-out his pack rolled towards the line with Ryan Cummins crossing for a try. The game was now tied and only an amazing block down of Walsh’s conversion attempt by Creggs scrum half Chris Duignan presented his side falling behind. Buoyed by this let off Creggs quickly regained the lead thanks to full-back Kevin Gavin who, chasing his own long kick out of defence, tackled his opposite number in front of the Dunmore posts securing a penalty which Brian Cleary converted to leave the score 14-11 at the interval. The third quarter saw Creggs moved further ahead with a fourth Cleary penalty after fifteen minutes. Tom Fleming then capped a tremendous performance, with a try while Cleary added the conversion to take Creggs into the quarter-final against Ballinasloe at The Green this Sunday at 2 pm. U-16 League: Creggs 10 Ballina 7. Creggs U-16s played Ballina last Sunday morning in Creggs in a very competitive league match. Creggs were back at full strength for the first

Pictured is the Creggs U-16 panel which played Ballina last weekend.

time this season so getting game time for everyone was always going to be important. Creggs began the game better and took the lead after 15 minutes when Mark Purcell rounded off a great team move to score in the corner. Following changes at the break Ballina took a 7-5 lead ten minutes into the second half. Creggs responded well and continued to attack before regaining the lead with five minutes to gor when Mark Purcell kicked cross-field for Aaron Hannon to dive on the ball in the corner

to make it 10-7 and hand Creggs the win. Connacht Junior 2 League: Creggs 2nds 10 Oughterard 16. Oughterard arrived to The Green for Saturday evening’s J2 league game as strong contenders for the league title but a youthful Creggs team put in a spirited display before losing out in a lively contest, played in ideal conditions. Oughterard carved the Creggs defence to shreds for an early converted try before Creggs gradually got to the tempo of the game. Oughterard went further ahead with a well worked

try in the 35th minute but Creggs rallied with two fine tries from impressive centre Tommy Devine to bring the score to 16-10 midway through the 2nd half. Creggs did get a few half chances in the closing stages but Oughterard with former Creggs player Aidan O’Flynn making a successful return to his old club, used their power and experience to close out the game for a deserved but hard earned victory. Creggs 2nds travel to Galway to play NUIG next Sunday in Dangan and can take a lot of positives from this battling display against

the current table toppers. Training continues on Friday night at 8 pm, new players always welcome. Youth Rugby: Due to a frozen pitch, Creggs U-13s and U-15s had to call off their league games last Saturday. The U-15s will travel to Ballina next Saturday for a league game. Time to be confirmed. Creggs U-18s will play Galwegians RFC in the semi-final of the U-18 league in Creggs next Sunday at 12.30 pm. After losing narrowly to the same opposition recently (2520), Creggs will need to be at their best to get back into

a league final this season. Creggs U-14s will play Ballinasloe RFC on Saturday in Creggs at 1.30 pm Creggs U-13s and U-14s train Wednesday nights at 7 pm. Mini Rugby: Creggs Minis will travel to Carrick-onShannon for a blitz next Saturday with a 10.15 am kick-off, players to be there at 9.50 am. Creggs Mini Girls went to Athlone last Saturday and had three very competitive games against Claremorris, Galwegians/Portumna and Sligo RFC, well done to all the girls and great to see good numbers on the day.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER Use Andy and Mayo as fuel for the ﬁre! THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner I was in Amsterdam when I read the report of last Sunday’s FBD League clash between Roscommon and those loveable rogues from down the road. I nearly spat my litre of beer out when I read what Andy Moran had done. I was shocked and deeply offended. How dare he! That man has been allowed to live in relative peace in Roscommon and some Rossies have even consoled him as Mayo have fallen short in their quest for Sam Maguire. He should be more grateful and learn to accept victory as

graciously as he accepted defeat to Dublin back in September! Seriously though we could all just curse him under our breath and accept that the bould Andy was just responding in style to the Rossies who had probably enjoyed and will continue to enjoy giving him stick! It was some impact from the bench and a timely reminder of just what he’s capable of ahead of the National Football League campaign. Of course his celebration was a bit much considering the circumstances, especially seeing as though Roscommon and not Mayo advanced to the FBD League Final. But does it really matter? Isn’t it part of the excitement of a local rivalry and wouldn’t the game be a

The week in numbers 3

little flat without it? The majority of Roscommon fans are usually gracious whatever the result and I’m sure there was a grudging admiration for the way the Ballaghaderreen man seized his opportunity. On the other hand, Karma is a wonderful force and if Kevin McStay can create the right kind of group mentality this spring then maybe, just maybe Moran will live to rue the day he went milking it in Kiltoom. Most Roscommon fans would agree he’s overdue for a bit of Rossie inflicted heartbreak and there will be opportunities this summer to balance the books! For now though let’s just grin and bear it and take the frustration out on Galway and Tyrone in the next couple of weeks.

Andy and the Rossies: Andy Moran and Aidan O’Shea celebrate following victory over Roscommon in the Connacht SFC Semi-Final in 2014 beside a dejected Niall Carty. Picture: Andrew Fox

People’s Champions of the Week

Due to the increasing number of underage players joining the club, the need for parents to come on board has never been more important. All parents with players interested in playing this year must attend a club meeting on Thursday, February 2nd at 8 pm in Hannon’s Hotel.

RDFL learn Oscar Traynor fate The Roscommon & District Football League will face the Cavan/Monaghan League in the Oscar Traynor play-off round at the beginning of February.

Wayne Rooney broke Sir Bobby Charlton’s goalscoring record for Manchester United last weekend as he struck a late freekick to rescue a point for Man United against Stoke City.

£9 million

The reported fee Norwich City have accepted as Crystal Palace bid to take Ireland’s Robbie Brady back to the Premier League… for now.

‘Drive in’ at Roscommon Golf Club The annual drive in takes place in Roscommon Golf Club this Sunday (29th) at 1. 30 pm sharp. This will be followed by a three person 9-hole scramble.

FAI Junior Cup draw made Boyle Celtic will face VEC FC in the 7th round of the FAI Junior Cup in early February.

There could only be one winner this week. Castlerea Community School arrived home to a hero’s welcome after clinching the U-16C Girls’ All-Ireland Schools Cup following an impressive win over Holy Child Secondary School in Tallaght on Tuesday afternoon. Congratulations to coach Joe Henry and his team!

Glorious Grogan! We start our weekly tour of the county’s golf courses in Roscommon where Jim Grogan clinched victory in last Sunday’s 16-hole competition with 39 points. Liam Casey was second also with 39 points and Francis Ferguson won the gross prize with 29 points. Last week’s ladies’ 9-hole competition was won by Fen Thompson with 22 points while Patricia O’Gara finished second with 19 points. The winners in the seniors categories were Michael Dolan and Mary O’Connor. To Boyle next where the Spring League is underway. Michael Simon and Tom Lavin are best placed in Group 1, Brendan Gaffney and Margaret Loftus lead the way in Group 2, Charlie O’Donnell and Fiona Keenan top Group

Sporting week on Tweet Street Paddy Power @paddypower

The sporting brief Golf

In the sporting diary .... Roscommon Town Youth Soccer

Roscommon and Galway will meet for the third year in a row in the FBD League Final this Sunday at 2 pm in Kiltoom.

250

@dan_dooner

3 and Paddy McLoughlin and Mandy Toolan streak ahead in Group 4. Finally to Athlone where Sean Cleary won the recent Gents’ competition with 36 points while Lily O’Sullivan and Eleanor Larkin enjoyed victories in recent 12-hole club competitions.

would not make the knockout stages for the first time in six years. Both the youths and senior teams will now continue respective preparations for their All-Ireland competitions.

Darts

Pool

Group exits!

Hollywood lead!

The Roscommon Youths and Senior darts teams both suffered group stage knockouts at The West Coast Challenge which took place in Rathkeale, Co. Limerick on Saturday last. The senior panel, which fielded many experienced players and a few who were making their West Coast debuts, suffered an opening round loss to Donegal. They recovered with wins over Mayo B and Galway but a loss to hosts Limerick in the final group game ensured Roscommon

Following last weekend’s Roscommon Town & District Pool League, Hollywood lead the rankings with 53 points, three ahead of Charlie’s in second place. Both sides were held to draws, with Hollywood playing out an exciting match with Rattigan’s and Charlies being held by Claypipe. Elsewhere, Larry’s beat Ned’s 6-2, Holly Tree and An Tobar finished in stalemate and D’Alton’s edged Railway Bar 5-3.

The strangest decision to come from the North East since the people of Hartlepool hung a monkey, thinking it was a French spy. (Paddy Power react to Sunderland’s signing of Joleon Lescott.)

Connacht Rugby @ connachtrugby We never gave up but a bitterly disappointing end to our European journey! A lot more rugby to play this season. Thanks for all the support! (Connacht bowed out of the Champions Cup last weekend.)

Kevin Byrne @KevByrneBox Irish influx about to hit Las Vegas, hard. Santa Cruz felt they influenced judges in NY & about a quarter of what’s expected travelled then. (The Irish invasion has spread to boxing as Carl Frampton prepares for his world title rematch against Leo Santa Cruz.)

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

@SeamusDuke

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Rossie positives despite Mayo defeat

Kevin Higgins breaks the ball away from Danny Kirby during Roscommon’s FBD League defeat to Mayo last Sunday in Kiltoom. Picture: Andrew Fox

Connacht bow out bravely Connacht made a brave exit from the Champions Cup last weekend in Toulouse and they will have to finish the season strongly to ensure that there is continuity going forward. Pat Lam, who has done such a brilliant job since he has come in, will be leaving and the powers that be must be very careful to get the right man in to replace him. The last thing that Connacht need is a slip in the standards that we saw under Lam. A return to the bad old days of Connacht being the poor relation of Irish rugby would be a disaster. In the game last weekend the bad start was the key and despite a stirring second half display they let Toulouse get too far ahead. Elsewhere, Ulster also bowed out but Leinster and Munster have both home games in the quarter-finals. Munster have a great chance of beating Toulouse while Leinster should also get to the semi-finals. The competition stops for the Six Nations now and Joe Schmidt and his troops will now take centre stage. I must say I am really looking forward to that competition this year. Ireland have a great chance of doing well.

‘Rocket’ Ronnie the man to beat Ronnie O’Sullivan was another record breaker last weekend becoming the first player ever to win seven Masters titles. We have seen some great snooker players over the years but O’Sullivan is the greatest of them all. He has a suspect temperament but when he is on his game there is no one like him. The game of snooker was one of the most popular on the TV up to 15 or 20 years ago and now it makes for an odd headline only. There are not many characters around in the game but O’Sullivan is one of them and it is a pleasure to watch him play. He will be the man to beat in the World Championships. That’s if he is ‘switched in’ of course and that’s not guaranteed!

In the history of the FBD League there have not been too many games that have lingered too long in the memory of the few who go to see them but last Sunday’s contest between Roscommon and Mayo in Kiltoom was a rare exception. Played on a beautiful day, it was a cracking game and we saw two teams who did not want to lose and it made for a great bit of entertainment. It would certainly be right not to look too far into what happened but I would wager that both sides were very happy with what they saw on Sunday. From a Roscommon point of view there were a number of positives. To score 2-16 against very decent opposition was excellent and the likes of Enda and Donie Smith and Cian Connolly and Tom Corcoran to a lesser extent impressed up front although I am not sure that full-forward is the best position for young Corcoran. I would still like to see him tried in the middle of the field. He has a lot to offer. Tadhg O’Rourke did well in midfield last Sunday while David Murray, Niall McInerney and John McManus did well in defence. The jury is still out on Ultan Harney at centre half-back and it will be interesting to see who the selectors will pick in that position on Sunday week in Omagh. Remember too that there were a number of players missing last Sunday such as Seanie McDermott, Niall Daly, Sean Mullooly and Conor Devaney to name just a few. Certainly the football we saw from Roscommon in the third quarter was a joy to watch and

person

Gaels’ appoint new chair

sion on her Congratulations to Teresa Hesof the Roscommon n rso irpe Cha as nt tme oin app She will be hoping to Gaels GAA Club last weekend.ey Cup to the town in Fah the of oversee the return 2017 among other things!

Chelsea continue to lead the pack in the English Premier League.

Another good weekend for Chelsea It’s still looking good for Chelsea in the Premier League. Spurs look their nearest opposition as the rest are faltering. Liverpool’s result against Swansea was a disaster and I would say it destroyed many an accumulator last weekend. You cannot lose to the bottom team in the league at home and hope to win the title. Manchester United dropped two points once again against Stoke. They are playing fairly well but they are not scoring enough goals. Wayne Rooney saved United with a spectacular goal against Stoke and he broke Bobby Charlton’s long standing United scoring record which has stood for almost 50 years. A lot of fans are divided about Rooney but his record stands for itself. When he retires he will be seen as a United legend and rightly so too in my humble opinion. But he is coming near the end of his career.

some of the scores were excellent. However, the failure to close the game out when leading by eight points with just eight minutes left was a disappointment for sure. We gave the ball away a number of times especially in those last ten minutes or so and to concede three goals in those final few minutes was careless. But let’s not get carried away. This was an FBD league game in the middle of January. Despite the fact that it was a very enjoyable game it will not make any difference at all in the long run. One thing that annoyed a lot of Roscommon people last Sunday in Kiltoom was the excessive way that Andy Moran celebrated his winning goal. If he scored the winning goal in the AllIreland final I doubt he would have celebrated as much, kissing the badge on his shirt and making gestures to the crowd. I realise that it was a sensational finish and the rivalry between the sides is intense but it was a bit much. These things have a habit of coming back to haunt you in the future. It all means that Roscommon will now face Galway in the FBD League final on Sunday next. As with the game against Mayo it is another chance for Kevin McStay and his selectors to fine tune preparations for the league opener on Sunday week. I wouldn’t be looking too much into the result once again but the performance is all important. The league and championship are where it’s at.

From the Internet Just to show you that top level sport is not always terribly serious... Robbie Keane made an appearance on today’s Soccer AM at the weekend to talk about his illustrious 20 year career. John Fendley questioned Keano on the greatest prank he ever played on a teammate. Now, obviously having played for twelve clubs, you would imagine it would take Robbie a long time to think. He’s played alongside a couple of tricksters in his career. No, Keane responded almost instantly. He said that he’s played plenty on teammates over the years but the ‘harshest’ involved former Spurs vice-chairman Paul Kemsley - someone Keane is still friendly with. After a brief moment of uncertainty, he

brought out a gem of a story involving Jamie Redknapp, Martin Jol and Kemsley. Kemsley apparently wasn’t the best with keeping his mobile phone in his pocket. Keane once found it unattended. Robbie said: “I don’t even want to say this.The vice-chairman of Tottenham was Paul Kemsley. Me, him and Jamie Redknapp anytime someone went to the toilet, we used to nick their phones, if they didn’t lock them. I texted Martin Jol saying ‘You fathead Shrek lookalike’ on the vice-chairman’s phone. He didn’t speak to him for four weeks after that…He didn’t know it was me but he does now.” Good Craic! (Courtesy of Balls.ie)

Robbie Keane enjoyed pranking Martin Jol during his time at Tottenham Hotspur.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

SportsPeople

Darcy and Stack shoot down Faithful Hastings Cup Shield Semi-Final ROSCOMMON

3-12

OFFALY

1-12

< SEAMUS DUKE

Roscommon’s U-21 footballers won their first game of the Hastings Cup campaign at bitterly cold Ardagh (Co. Longford) last Saturday when they had six points to spare against Offaly in what was an entertaining game. Roscommon will now play Westmeath in the Shield final at a Co. Longford venue this Saturday morning. Two goals in four minutes from Hubert Darcy (penalty) and Brian Stack at the end of the third quarter were the scores that settled the contest and Roscommon deserved their six point win in the end. Roscommon led by 1-7 to 0-5 at half-time and with Aengus Lyons outstanding in a sweeping role and Hubert Darcy and Gearoid Keenan dominating at midfield Roscommon had plenty of possession. Roscommon’s goal came from Gearoid Keenan in the 6th minute after a great run from Darcy. Offaly were back in the game after Ciaran Farrell

goaled in the 36th minute at the third attempt after the Roscommon defence had blocked his first two shots and in the 39th minute there was only a point in it 1-9 to 1-8. But Roscommon scored two goals in four minutes with Darcy on target with a penalty after sub James Fetherstone was fouled, and then Brian Stack crashed the ball home after Eoin McCormack’s shot had come back off the crossbar. Roscommon were in control after that and they saw out the win comfortably. In addition to the impressive Lyons, Darcy and Keenan, Brian Stack, Aidan Dowd John Gannon, and subs Shane Dowd James Fetherstone and Lorcan Daly did well. After the game the Roscommon team manager Adrian Dockery said he was well satisfied with his side’s first win in the Hastings Cup. “I was quite content with that display. We played well early on but we faded a little towards the end of the first half but on balance we showed good

intensity and the work rate from the players was good,” he said. “We are still short a few players and we have a few returning from injury but we have a number of players that have come into the panel that are doing very well. We are building up the panel every week. We are delighted to have another game this coming weekend and another chance to look at our panel and to refine our style of play. Westmeath will be a good challenge for us but it’s all about the 22nd of March,” he concluded. Roscommon: Regan Fahey; John Brennan, Michael Cox, Keelan Beirne; Sean Conroy (0-1), Aidan Dowd (0-1), Luke Kelly; Gearoid Keenan (1-0), Hubert Darcy (1-3, pen 2 frees); Eoin McCormack, Aidan Brogan (0-2), John Gannon (0-1); Aengus Lyons, Brian Stack (1-0), Cian McKeron (0-3, 2 frees). Subs: Ciaran Whyte for Gannon (h/t), James Fetherstone (0-1) for Keenan (h/t), Lorcan Daly for Kelly (h/t), Shane Dowd for Brogan (38), David Connaughton for Stack (54), Mark Richardson for Beirne (54), Jack Casey for Conroy (57), A Murray for McKeon (60). Referee: T Gaffney (Longford)

Hubert Darcy helped Roscommon U-21s to a Hastings Cup Shield semi-final win over Offaly. Pic: Andrew Fox

Rossie representation at inter-provincials Gaels) Amy Malone (St. Croan’s) and Rachel Fitzmaurice (St. Ciaran’s). In the first round Connacht beat Munster 1-5 to 0-6. In the second round they lost out to Ulster on a score of 1-7 to 1-2 and in the last round they defeated Ulster

CLAREGALWAY COLLEGE ROSCOMMON CBS Roscommon CBS relinquished their Barry Burke title on Monday last in an epic game of hurling against pre-tournament favourites, Claregalway College. Played in ideal conditions at the Centre of Excellence in Ballyhaunis, CBS struggled in the opening stages and Claregalway went into a five point league by halftime. The CBS goals came from Ciaran Lawless and Dan O’Neill. Early in the second half the Galway side had pushed that lead to nine points and things looked bleak for the CBS. A remarkable comeback inspired by centre back Eoghan Coyle saw CBS level with five minutes remaining with goals from Ciaran Lawless and Cian Murray. Ben McGahon and Darragh Walsh scored some great points as well as the CBS defence led by Cormac Coyle kept the Galway side scoreless. In the tense final minutes McGahon fired narrowly wide which would have given CBS the lead. With the game heading for a replay a mistake in the CBS defence was seized upon by a Claregalway forward and

3-3 to 1-6. Connacht qualified for the A final which they had previously won in 2015. This year the girls were defeated by Ulster 2-7 to 1-1. Ward Brothers Intermediate ladies open their season Following on from their

strong workout against Clare on Sunday last in Johnstown our Ward Brothers intermediate ladies completed their pre-season activity with another tough challenge against neighbours Longford in Rathcline on Sunday last. Un-

fortunately it was a game in which the Roscommon girls will want to forget as quickly as possible as Longford were far superior in nearly all aspects and ran out comfortable winners on a score line of 2-13 to 0-9. However it was an opportunity for the management to use most of their squad which will be of benefit going forward. This brings the girls nicely onto the beginning of their National League programme which begins this Sunday (29th) against Offaly at 2 pm.

Underage update

Francie Keane (manager), Shannon Dowd, Amy Malone and Rachel Fitzmaurice represented Roscommon at the All-Ireland Post Primary School Inter-Provincials last weekend.

All county squads are now complete and full training has commenced. Very best wishes to all players and management involved for the coming season. The minors begin their season of pre-season challenges with a game against Westmeath on Friday. Fixtures for all inter-county teams are now unloaded on the Connacht LGFA website.

3-13 4-9

a shot that was originally flagged wide was awarded as a point in controversial circumstances. Mayo referee James Judge blew the whistle soon after and the CBS were knocked out of this year’s competition. While it was a bitter pill to swallow, CBS had some excellent performances on the day from Cormac Coyle, John Martin, Kyle Walsh, Cian Murray, Ben McGahon, Sean Hanily and the imperious Eoghan Coyle. Indeed, Claregalway College will next year ply their trade at ‘A’ colleges level in Connacht which shows the standard at which CBS continue to compete. On the plus side many of these CBS players will represent Roscommon in the coming months in the Celtic U-17 league and Minor League. Roscommon CBS: Cormac Miley; James Fagan, Cormac Coyle (Capt), Conor Grimes; Kyle Walsh, Eoghan Coyle, John Martin; Daire Byrne, Sean Hanily; Ben McGahon, Darragh Walsh, Ciaran Lawless; Dan O’Neill, Peter Gillooly, Jack Lohan. Subs used: Orín Walsh, Cian Murray, Diarmaid Collins, Shane Purcell, Darragh McCarthy.

Fahy a model student as honours shared Roscommon Schools SF Final SCOIL MHUIRE STROKESTOWN

Roscommon Ladies update

Three Roscommon LGFA players along with Francie Keane (manager) represented Roscommon last weekend at the All-Ireland Post Primary School Inter Provincials in Kinnegad. The girls who played were Shannon Dowd (Western

Claregalway foil brave CBS comeback

ST. ALOYSIUS < SEAMUS DUKE This thrilling final played under lights at Johnstown on Tuesday night ended honours even and if there is a better game of underage football played this year then I would love to see it. This was a game of tremendous football with plenty of controversial incidents and a breath-taking finish that neither side deserved to lose. Strokestown, with Calum Fahy in scintillating form, powered into a 1-6 to 0-2 lead after 25 minutes with Robert Regan grabbing the goal as the Athlone side looked way off the pace. But St. Aloysius awoke from their slumber after that and incredibly they scored 1-9 without reply. Three converted frees and a Niall Murray goal saw the margin just one at half-time with Strokestown leading by 1-6 to 1-5. By the 43rd minute it was Aloysius 1-11 Scoil Mhuire 1-6 before a superb Calum Fahy goal in the 45th minute steadied the Strokestown ship and from there to the finish it was end to end stuff. With 12 minutes to go the sides were level (2-8 to 1-11)

3-8 1-14

before points from Ciaran Lennon and Conor Farrell (2) edged Aloysius’ three ahead but there was still another twist. Cian Corcoran was fouled in the penalty area in the 63rd minute and Robert Regan blasted the resultant spot kick to the net. St. Aloysius ended the game on the attack but it would have been unfair if either side had lost, and they will replay in a couple of weeks’ time. Scoil Mhuire Strokestown: Dylan Jordan; Dara Maguire, Thomas Maguire, Stephen Lennon; James Bennett, Gerry Galvin, Kevin Shiel; Oisin Cusack, Cian Corcoran (0-1,free); Niall Higgins, Keith Murphy, Dylan Carbin; Robert Regan (2-0, 1 pen), Mikey Kavanagh, Calum Fahy (1-7, 4 frees). St. Aloysius: Dan Finneran; Niall Connaughton, Sean Fallon, Adam Harney; Eoin Moynagh, Damien Duff, Dara Kildea; Niall Murray (1-0), Paul McManus (0-1); Darren Duff, Conor Farrell (0-6,2 frees), Ciaran Lennon (0-4, 1 free); Luke Kelly (0-2), Calum O’Brien, Liam Naughton (0-1). Sub: Conor Quinn for Darren Duff. Referee: Brendan Healy.

Roscommon People Friday 27 January 2017

Allianz National Football League 2017- Preview

Rossies look forward < SEAMUS DUKE

n Sunday, February 5th, Roscommon footballers will begin their 2017 league campaign at Healy Park in Omagh. Roscommon fans will fondly remember the 2016 campaign when, after a narrow opening loss to Monaghan, their top flights status was secured with two rounds to go after four spectacular wins against Kerry, Down, Cork and Donegal. Remember also that Roscommon played only one game at Dr Hyde Park last year which made that achievement all the more remarkable. However, this is a new year and everyone starts again with a blank sheet. Roscommon have only three home games this time around and will start with the very difficult trip to Tyrone. The management shake-up and the retirement of a number of players will see Roscommon with a new panel and there are many inexperienced players now involved. The availability of Dr Hyde Park for matches and for training will be a huge boost to the team but that will be more important as we head towards the championship. The reality is that it would be another huge achievement for Roscommon to retain their Division One status. This week we take a look at our opponents over the next two months, their strengths and weaknesses and Roscommon’s prospects. Remember that there are no semi-finals this year. The top two teams will play in the final while the bottom two will be relegated to Division Two. Roscommon’s odds to win the league are 25/1, and they are 5/6 to be relegated.

TYRONE National League wins: 3 (last in 2003) Last season: Winners of Division 2 - promoted. Manager: Mickey Harte (15th season) Players to watch: Justin McMahon, Peter Harte, Mattie Donnelly, Darren McCurry, Tiernan McCann. Odds to win the league: 9/2 Odds to be relegated: 6/1 Prospects: Tyrone are one of four or five counties who have genuine ambitions on winning the Sam Maguire Cup in 2017. It could well be Mickey Harte’s last year and they have a very strong team who are very difficult to beat on their home patch. They have a great chance of making the final in the league and will be very hard to beat, home or away. Roscommon v Tyrone (Round 1) on Sunday, 5th February in Healy Park Omagh at 2 pm – It would be a huge achievement to get anything out of this game. Even Dublin, Kerry and Mayo would struggle to win here. A really tough opener for The Rossies.

DONEGAL

MAYO

KERRY

National League wins: 3 (last in 2007) Last season: Finished 4th in Division 1. Manager: Rory Gallagher (3rd season) Players to watch: Ryan McHugh, Paddy McBrearty, Michael Murphy, Mark McHugh, Anthony Thompson. Odds to win the league: 16/1 Odds to be relegated: 11/8 Prospects: It is a time of huge transition in Donegal. Many of the great players who led them to their All-Ireland success in recent years have retired and Rory Gallagher will have to blood a lot of young players this year. The influence of Michael Murphy will be vital as usual. Roscommon v Donegal: (Round 2) on Sunday, February 12th at Dr Hyde Park at 2 pm. This is a game that Roscommon will surely be targeting to win. The fact that Dr Hyde Park is re-opening and the associated hype will ensure a huge crowd. It would be a huge boost to the campaign to have two points from this game.

National League wins: 11 (last in 2001) Last season: Finished 6th in Division 1 Manager: Stephen Rochford (2nd season) Players to watch: Colm Boyle, Patrick Durcan, Lee Keegan, Aidan O’Shea, Evan Regan, Conor Loftus, Stephen Coen. Odds to win the league: 9/2 Odds to be relegated: 6/1 Prospects: Mayo are still deservedly in the top three teams in the country but one has to ask the question how often can this team go back to the well and stay at the top? The fact that they won the All-Ireland U-21 title last year will give them a boost and the likes of Stephen Coen and Conor Loftus will surely be prominent this year. Roscommon v Mayo (Round 3) on Saturday, 25th February at MacHale Park at 7 pm. This will be a very difficult game for Roscommon. Mayo always raise their game against Roscommon and will be keen to do the same on their home turf. Mayo have been in the top division for 16 seasons and they will be determined to stay there ahead of another championship campaign. Unlikely that Roscommon will get anything here.

National League wins: 19 (last in 2009) Last season: Finished 2nd in Division 1, beaten in the final by Dublin. Manager: Eamon Fitzmaurice (4th season) Players to watch: James O’Donoghue, Paul Geaney, Darran O’Sullivan, Jack Savage, David Moran, Jack Barry. Odds to win the league: 4/1 Odds to be relegated: 15/2 Prospects: Winning the All-Ireland minor title for the past three years in a row suggests that the Kerry production line is in great condition. Eamon Fitzmaurice will be without the Dr Crokes contingent early in the season but watch out for young stars like Jack Savage and Jack Barry. Kerry are notoriously slow starters in the league. It will be interesting to see what their attitude is this year. Roscommon v Kerry (Round 4) on Sunday, 5th March at Dr Hyde Park at 2 pm. This is another huge game for Roscommon that should draw a big crowd to Dr Hyde Park. If Roscommon are to survive in the division then they will have to hope to win their home games. A win here is possible but Roscommon will have to play out of their skins but hopefully another two points.

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MONAGHAN

DUBLIN

CAVAN

National League wins: 1 (1985) Last season: Finished 5th in Division 1 Manager: Malachy O’Rourke (5th season) Players to watch: Conor McManus, Rory Beggan, Drew Wylie, Darren Hughes, Colin Walsh, Owen Duffy. Odds to win the league: 16/1 Odds to be relegated: 7/4 Prospects: Monaghan are under the radar this season but remain a very accomplished side and under Malachy O’Rourke are capable to giving any team a game in Division One. They will be looking at survival in Division One as a priority and on their home patch they will be very hard to beat. Conor McManus remains their inspiration and one of the best attackers in the game. Roscommon v Monaghan on Sunday, March 15th at Pairc Grattan at 2 pm. Another very difficult game for Roscommon but one that they can target for two points. Roscommon were very unlucky to have lost to Monaghan in injury-time in Kiltoom in 2016 and they will travel to the Farney County with confidence.

National League wins: 12 (last in 2016) Last Season: Winners Manager: Jim Gavin (5th season) Players to watch: Where do you start? Philly McMahon, Jonny Cooper, Brian Fenton, Ciaran Kilkenny, Con O’Callaghan, Diarmuid Connolly. Odds to win the league: 11/10 Odds to be relegated: 20/1 Prospects: If Dublin really want to maintain their unbeaten record then they will win the 2017 league, it’s as simple as that. They have an enormous panel of fantastic players. They will be without the St. Vincent’s contingent in the early stages but I am looking forward to seeing the likes of Con O’Callaghan and Conor McHugh getting a chance in the league. They are just so strong it is hard to see them losing a game at all. Roscommon v Dublin (Round 7) on Saturday, 25th March in Croke Park at 7 pm. This is the kind of fixture that players in Roscommon and other counties work so hard in training to play in. It will be a great occasion for Roscommon football and Roscommon GAA in general and a great night out for the supporters. To expect a win would be stretching it but hopefully a good display.

National League wins: 1 (1948) Last Season: 2nd in Division 2 and promoted Manager: Mattie McGleenon (1st season) Players to watch: Rory Dunne, Gerard McKiernan, Seanie Johnston, Martin Dunne, Cian Mackey, David Givney. Odds to win the league: 25/1 Odds to be relegated: 8/11 Prospects: Having been promoted and changed manager, Cavan will head into the unknown in 2017. Along with Roscommon they are favourites to drop back down again to Division Two. There is a huge passion and following for football in Cavan and they will be hard to beat at home but it is hard to see them being able to deal with the really big teams. Roscommon v Cavan (Round 7) on Sunday, 2nd April at Dr Hyde Park. Both sides will be hoping that they are still in with a shout of retaining their status when it comes to this game. Roscommon have a good recent record against Cavan in recent years and at home they will want to finish their campaign with a win ahead of the championship preparations. (ODDS COURTESY OF PADDY POWER)

PROSPECTS: ROSCOMMON’Sha s thrown up a

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Super sub Ballaghaderreen’s Moran FBD Connacht SF League Round 3 MAYO

4-11 (23)

ROSCOMMON

2-16 (22)

< SEAMUS DUKE

Thomas Corcoran plucks the ball from the air to win possession for Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Donie Smith sets up an attacking move for Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Two goals in injury-time from sub Andy Moran saw Mayo snatch victory in this pulsating FBD League tie played in perfect weather conditions at Kiltoom last Sunday. Despite this loss Roscommon have qualified for this weekend’s final when they will face Galway. It was a heart-breaking way to lose what was a very competitive and hard fought game but there were plenty of positives for Roscommon who played some great football at times. In the total of 2-16 there were some fantastic scores and there were excellent displays around the field. However, Roscommon manager Kevin McStay and his selectors will be worried that the team were not able to close out the win having led by eight points with just eight minutes of normal time remaining. The number of times that Roscommon are turning over possession is still a worry but it is much better to find this out in an FBD League game than in a few weeks’ time in the National Football League. Anyone who thought that the FBD League does not matter to the players on both sides does not know much about the rivalry between

Roscommon and Mayo. This was a cracking encounter from the minute the ball was thrown in. There was an edge to proceedings all the way through and we even had a few dust ups between the players and one incident in the first half saw four players being yellow carded. But we also saw some great football and an incredible finish to the game as well. David Murray, Niall McInerney and Ultan Harney (until he went off) did well in defence. Midfield struggled at times but Tadhg O’Rourke did well. Up front Enda and Donie Smith were on fire and Enda Smith scored two great goals. Cian Connolly had a good first half while Tom Corcoran looked dangerous any time he got the ball. But leading by eight points with less than 10 minutes to go Roscommon should

never have lost this game. While games in the FBD League are quickly forgotten it would have been nice to put down a marker here, however small that marker might have been. In front of a healthy crowd and in a beautiful day it was Roscommon who started best and they led by 1-2 to 0-1 after six minutes, Cian Connolly landing two fine points and Enda Smith scoring a great team goal after a superb pass from Thomas Corcoran. But Mayo were never far away and with Paddy Durcan leading by example, they kept in touch with a number of excellent points. In the 13th minute Liam Irwin blasted to the Roscommon net and from there to half-time it was nip and tuck, and with Cillian O’Connor accurate from frees, Mayo led by 1-9 to 18 at half-time. Roscommon played some marvellous football in the third quarter. From the throw-in to the 62nd minute Roscommon outscored Mayo by 1-8 to 0-2. Enda and Donie Smith were to

the fore as Roscommon built up an eight-point lead. In the 42nd minute Enda Smith embarked on a 50 metre solo run before slipping the ball under Robbie Hennelly for a brilliant goal. Enda and older brother Donie added six points between them and Tadhg O’Rourke and sub Niall Kilroy also pointed to leave the home side eight points ahead (216 to 1-11) with just eight minutes left. But Mayo never gave up and incredibly the final three scores of the game were Mayo goals. In the 31st minute Jason Gibbons was pushed in the back and referee John Gilmartin awarded Mayo a penalty, which Cillian O’Connor dispatched past Colm Lavin. Mayo launched an all out offensive in search of the winning scores in the final minutes of the game. Five minutes of injury-time was indicated and sub Andy Moran took centre stage. In the 71st minute he played a one-two with Cillian O’Connor and flicked the ball home and now there was only two points in the

Niall McInerney carries possession forward for Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox

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sinks Rossies nets two in Mayo comeback game. In the 74th minute Roscommon gave the ball away once again and Mayo worked the ball into the veteran Moran who made no mistake from close range. He celebrated the goal as if he had scored the winning goal in the All-Ireland final. There was time for no more and Mayo had stolen victory in sensational fashion. Roscommon manager Kevin McStay wasn’t too despondent in defeat and said the object of the exercise was to try players in new positions. He said: “We are trying guys in different positions. Ultan (Harney) was going well but he was wrecked when we took him off. He was under pressure before the game and he was very anxious to play and we wanted to see how he did at number six.” McStay added that he was happy with progress overall and that focus was firmly on league preparation: “I am very happy with where we are at. The opposition is getting stronger week by week and so are we. Our defence is not strong enough yet and when you realise that the last three scores for Mayo were goals, it’s daft really, but we

will go again next Sunday and see how we get on but it’s all down to preparation for the league now.” Star forward Donie Smith said there was a hint of revenge in the air ahead of Sunday’s FBD League Final: “We are looking forward to the final. There is silverware on the table and they (Galway) gave us a bit of a trimming in the Connacht final replay last year so hopefully we can get a good performance against them on Sunday.” He also added that he was delighted with his own form ahead of the National Football League. “I’m happy with my own form but the key is staying injury free and fit. There is a great spirit in the camp and we are looking forward to next Sunday’s final and then the big one in Omagh on Sunday week.” Roscommon are looking ahead to Galway on Sunday in a repeat of last year’s FBD League decider. It will be another chance for Kevin McStay and his selectors to fine tune their team ahead of a huge challenge in Omagh on Sunday week. Despite the defeat to Mayo there were plenty of positives to

be taken from the encounter. Mayo: Rob Hennelly; Donie Newcombe, Ray O’Malley, Paddy Durcan (0-1); Michael Plunkett, Stephen Coen, David Drake; Jason Gibbons, Danny Kirby (01); Fergal Boland (0-2), Kevin McLoughlin, Jason Doherty; Liam Irwin (1-1), Cillian O’Connor (1-5, 5 frees, pen), Conor O’Shea (0-1). Subs: Evan Regan for Irwin (49), Keith Higgins for O’Malley (52), Tom Parsons for Kirby (56), Shane Nally for Durcan (60, b/c), Andy Moran (20) for Boland (67), Cathal Carolan for Gibbons (67).

Roscommon: Colm Lavin; David Murray, Tom Fetherston, Niall McInerney; Ronan Stack, Ultan Harney, John McManus; Tadhg O’Rourke, Kevin Higgins (0-2); Fintan Cregg, Ciaráin Murtagh (0-2, frees), Enda Smith (2-3, 1 free); Cian Connolly (0-3), Tom Corcoran, Donie Smith (0-4, 2 frees). Subs; Niall Kilroy (0-1) for Murtagh (45), Gary Patterson for Harney (48), Shane Killoran for Cregg (52), Henry Walsh for Connolly (56,), Brian Murtagh for Stack (64), Cathal Shine for D Smith (68). Referee: John Gilmartin (Sligo)

Stat Attack Wides: Mayo 10 (6 first half) Roscommon 5 (2 first half) Yellow Cards: Mayo 4 (Danny Kirby, Cillian O’Connor, Conor O’Shea 2) Roscommon: 3 (Niall McInerney, Ultan Harney, Fintan Cregg) Black Cards: Mayo 1 (Paddy Durcan 60) Roscommon 0 Red Cards: Mayo 1 (Conor O’Shea, 61 - 2 yellows) Roscommon 0 Man of the Match: Enda Smith

Roscommon manager Kevin McStay and Mayo manager Stephen Rochford speak briefly after the final whistle. Picture: Andrew Fox

Thomas Corcoran wins possession for Roscommon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Colm Lavin is unable to stop Cillian O’Connor converting a very soft penalty that was awarded by John Gilmartin. Picture: Andrew Fox

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INSIDE: Full Allianz NFL preview on pages 58 - 59…

McStay rings changes for Sunday Rossies welcome Tribesmen for FBD showdown FBD League Final: Roscommon v Galway at Kiltoom on Sunday at 2 pm < SEAMUS DUKE

For the third year in a row Roscommon play Galway in the FBD League final, and while there is silverware up for grabs, both sides will have at least one eye on the opening round of the National Football League on Sunday week when they line out at Kiltoom. Kevin McStay says that he will announce a 26-man squad for the National Football League on Monday so there are a number of places still available. He will be choosing two goalkeepers out of the three on the panel and that’s one of a number of difficult decisions that lie ahead. Galway have been impressive in the FBD League thus far and handed out a 5-20 to 0-9 thrashing to Leitrim on their way to the final. Sean Armstrong, Johnny Duane and Fiontain Ó Currain are back on the Galway panel this year and Danny Cummins and new recruit Barry McHugh (who scored 10 points against

Leitrim) will surely feature on Sunday. Two years ago Roscommon defeated Galway by 4-8 to 0-12 in Kiltoom in the final but Galway turned the tables last year winning by a point 2-8 to 0-13. Speaking to the Roscommon People after the game against Mayo last Sunday, Roscommon manager Kevin McStay said: “We hope to have learned from what happened in the last few minutes against Mayo. But we are happy enough where we are at the moment. We don’t have a lot of work done yet and we probably need to get a bit more physical. When we move the ball fast we are playing some nice football and we will be going out to win on Sunday that’s for sure,” he concluded. Sunday’s final will be all about the performance and a final chance to look at players before the real action starts on Sunday week. However, it should be a very competitive game as the first silverware of the season is handed out.

Roscommon team for FBD League Final 1 Darren O’Malley (Michael Glavey’s) 2 Sean McDermott (Western Gaels) 3 Tom Featherston (Oran) 4 Niall McInerney (St. Brigid’s) 5 Ronan Stack (St. Brigid’s) 6 Sean Mullooly (Strokestown) 7 John McManus (Roscommon Gaels) 8 Tom Corcoran (Strokestown) 9 Tadhg O’Rourke (Tulsk) 10 Fintan Cregg (Elphin) 11 Ciaráin Murtagh (Captain) (St. Faithleach’s)

12 Shane Killoran (Elphin) 13 Cian Connolly (Roscommon Gaels) 14 Ultan Harney (Clann na nGael) 15 Donie Smith (Boyle) Substitutes: Colm Lavin (Éire Óg), Kevin Higgins (Western Gaels), Enda Smith (Boyle), Niall Kilroy (Fuerty), Niall Daly (Pádraig Pearses), Gary Patterson (Michael Glavey’s), David Murray (St. Brigid’s), Conor Devaney (Kilbride).

LAST CHANCE

Roscommon manager Kevin McStay will look at Sunday’s FBD League Final against Galway as an opportunity to fine tune his panel ahead of the NFL visit to Tyrone. Pic: Andrew Fox

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