2017 02 17 by Roscommon People

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

McCABE SCANDAL

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

‘It all makes me sick’ – MING

news@roscommonpeople.ie sport@roscommonpeople.ie advertising@roscommonpeople.ie 17 February 2017

The Local Paper

Paul Healy: Page 18

VOLUME: 515

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

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CAR SALES & SERVICE Sophie McGarry, Daniel McGarry, Ronan Doyle and Rory Doyle had a spring in their step as they entered Hyde Park for Roscommon’s Division One encounter with Donegal. Picture: Andrew Fox

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

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

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

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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

Jennifer Liddy and Sinead Neilan have commenced practice as

Liddy Neilan Solicitors Abbey Street, Roscommon T: (090) 6627498 F: (090) 6665590 E: info@liddyneilan.ie Practice areas include: • Conveyancing • Probate, Wills & Estate Planning • Personal Injury Claims and Litigation* • Family Law *in contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.

People WATCHING Rafﬂe for Buster the Bullock… A very generous local farmer has donated ‘Buster the Bullock’ for raffle to raise money for the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation. The raffle will be held on Saturday, 18th of March at Millar’s Bar, Ballydangan, Co. Roscommon. Tickets are now on sale for €5 each or book of 5 for €20, with details on www.jackandjill.ie or by calling Edelle on 045-894538. Jack & Jill has supported 2,200 sick children nationwide with home nursing care and respite, including 48 children in Westmeath and 25 children in Roscommon and 138 children in Galway. Buster follows in the footsteps, or should we say hoof-steps, of Daisy and Black Betty, two

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were Damien Comer and Hollie Gavin. Picture: Andrew Fox

Limousin heifers previously donated by this same farmer who raised an amazing €26,000 for the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation. The Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation provides direct funding and vital home nursing support to families

of children with brain damage up to the age of 4 who suffer severe intellectual and physical developmental delay, enabling them to purchase home respite care. It also provides end of life care to all children who require it up to the age of 4 years.

Roscommon teacher wins INTO bursary Caroline White from Castlerea, Co. Roscommon and a teacher in Tibohine NS, Castlerea was announced as a winner of a bursary from the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation to help fund education research in Ireland. Ms. White’s research (to Masters Level in St Angela’s College, Sligo) seeks to explore the current beliefs and classroom practices of Irish primary teachers with regard to using calculators during mathematics classes.

Strokestown Schools Poetry Competition Pictured is Paul Donoghue (Roxboro, Roscommon) who graduated with a Bachelor of Science Honours Degree in Computer Applications from DCU.

This is the last week for children going to school in Co. Roscommon to enter the Strokestown Schools Poetry Competition. The Strokestown International Poetry Festival is taking place on the May Bank Holiday weekend from 27th, of April to 1st of May. Each year there is a special poetry competition open to every student who is going to school in County Roscommon. A selection of young Roscommon poets will be invited to read at the festival at a prizegiving event. The prizes are as follows – 1st: €100

and a book of poetry; 2nd: €50 and a book of poetry; 3rd: €30 and a book of poetry. There is also a prize of €20 each for the shortlisted poets. The closing date for receipt of entries is Friday, 17th of February. The poems will be judged in two categories: Primary and Secondary. There is no entry fee and students and pupils may write on any theme/subject. Entry forms can be obtained from the Strokestown Poetry Festival Office: 071-9633759 from 10 am-1 pm or downloaded from the festival website: www.strokestownpoetry.org

Castlerea Window Display Competition organiser June Duffy presents a cheque for €500 to St Michael’s NS, Castlerea. Pictured (l-r, back): Jacinta Connellan and June Duffy; front: Matthew Egan, Zara Quinn, Sinead Nicholson and Sophia Devaney.

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

Personal Injury My friends and I went on a wonderful skiing holiday to France a few weeks ago. We had a lovely time but I would appreciate your legal advice please. My friends and I were eating dinner in the hotel restaurant one evening when the chair I was sitting on gave way and I fell to the floor badly. The hotel staff were very sympathetic and the tour representative from the travel company spoke to me about it the next day. My back is still sore and I have been to my GP a few times. I would like some advice regarding compensation for my injuries. Do I have to hire a French Lawyer to sue the hotel in France? I would prefer to do so in Ireland. I note that you mention speaking with the tour representative from the travel company so I am assuming that you booked your ski trip as a “package holiday”. If this is the case then you may be able to make an injury compensation claim against the tour operator for your injuries and any related financial losses. A package holiday is defined under the Package Holidays and Travel Trade Act 1995 (the “Act”) as a combination of two or more of the following, when sold or offered for sale at an inclusive price: - (i) transport; (ii) accommodation; (iii) other significant elements of a tourist service nature. Under the Act a tour operator may be held responsible for all of the services provided as part of a package holiday including holiday accommodation. Consequently, the tour operator may be liable if the accommodation fails to comply with the standards of health and safety in that country. Legal proceedings may be brought before the Courts in the country where the injured party resides or where the incident occurred. Obviously, it is preferable to bring proceedings in one’s own country. It is important to engage a Solicitor as soon as possible to advise you on the best course of action to take. Please feel free to contact Byrne Carolan Cunningham dedicated Litigation Department in confidence for expert advice.

This column is prepared by Dolores Gacquin, Solicitor. Byrne Carolan Cunningham have offices in Athlone, Moate, Lanesborough and Galway. A person should always contact their solicitor to obtain legal advice specific to their own situation. The above column contains general information and cannot be relied upon as legal advice. * In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement

Byrne Carolan Cunningham SOLICITORS

Telephone Central Line 090 6478433 Compiled by PAUL HEALY

info@bccsolicitors.ie

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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Garda in appeal to public after rise in burglaries < PAUL HEALY

An unexpected and significant rise in instances of burglaries in houses and businesses in Roscommon Town in recent weeks has led to Gardai issuing a public appeal. Roscommon Gardai have confirmed to the Roscommon People that there has been a significant escalation in such criminal activity in the New Year.

It is understood that there have been about a dozen burglaries at houses/business premises’ in the greater Roscommon Town area since Christmas. The majority of these are occurring in the evening time. A spokesperson for Roscommon Gardai said that the current surge in burglaries is a concern. Gardai are conducting investigations into all such reported burglaries and are now appealing for assistance

from the public, while also advising housesholders and business people to be vigilant while this crime spree is ongoing. The spokesperson said: “We had a similar spree like this a few years ago. Several burglaries have been reported and almost all of them have occurred in the evening. In one instance recently the householder was only away from his property for an hour or so. “We are appealing to the public

to contact Roscommon Gardai if their suspicions are aroused or if they have any information which they feel would be of assistance. Please watch out for any unusual activity and report anything of concern. We are also asking people to be vigilant around their properties. Please take all possible steps to safeguard your property against being targeted by thieves.” Roscommon Gardai can be contacted on 090-6638300.

Castlecoote ﬁction fans warmed by ‘Summer of ‘63’

Pictured at the launch of Summer of ’63 in Castlecoote Lodge on Friday night last were Eileen Keane and Brian Leyden. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the launch of Summer of ’63 in Castlecoote Lodge on Friday night last were Brian and Carmel Leyden. Picture: Andrew Fox

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newsbrief Feighan urges farmers to make voices heard on CAP consultation Senator Frank Feighan has said that Fine Gael will continue to support a strong CAP in light of the European Commission’s new consultation process on the future of the CAP post-2020. “The European Commission has launched a new consultation process on the future of CAP post-2020. Roscommon farmers can make their voice heard by completing the European Commission’s questionnaire at https://ec.europa.eu/eusurvey/runner/FutureCAP “This public consultation questionnaire is open on the European Commission website until May 2nd 2017. “The Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed, is going to engage with the European Commission and with other Member States throughout this consultation process, to ensure that our farmers are well represented. “Minister Creed’s Department is already conducting a detailed policy analysis on the future shape of the CAP, taking into account potential challenges ahead. “These include: supporting the sustainable growth of food production; implementing modern and innovative measures to help mitigate the impact of increased global market volatility; and more effective promotion of and support for generational renewal.”

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

NewsPeople 7th SON FAITH HEALER

PAUL HEALY’S WEEK

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A column by Roscommon People editor

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t was a fine occasion

– shame about the result. Our 11-year-old came along to Hyde Park with enthusiasm. Asked if he wanted to go, our six-year-old airily replied ‘No thanks…I’ll watch it on the telly.” (He had no idea whether or not it was on the telly. He thinks every football match on the telly, irrespective of code or indeed country, involves Roscommon). We knew it would be cold – we didn’t think it would be quite that cold. But I remember attending football matches in Roscommon or involving Roscommon teams on colder days. Does anyone else remember the day Clann na nGael beat The Burren in a classic on a snowy, bloody freezing day in County Down in 1988? Has everyone who was

there just about warmed up by now? Anyways, I digress. So we joined the few thousand hardy folk at the Hyde on Sunday, as Roscommon were (finally) homeward bound. And what a nice occasion it was. Weather brilliant (if bitterly cold), pitch looking great, a nice crowd, and a super match. And I was reminded, as we shivered alongside one another, of the joy of bringing one’s child or children to sporting occasions. Memories are made of this, as they say. At half-time, most people reached for their mobiles. A few of the humans present started actually talking to one another, but I can’t see it catching on. Mobiles reigned. Roscommon’s first goal was a homecoming present. The

Donegal ‘keeper had been trying short kick-outs all afternoon, but this one caught the defender by surprise, Smith stole in like a thief in the night and Murtagh fired home like an assassin in the day. I thought Roscommon played very well and it was a shame that we didn’t get a moraleboosting draw or win. It was a dramatic finale. Roscommon had led at half-time but Donegal found it easier to get scores and, wind assisted, they moved three points clear. Then came Conor Devaney’s moment of inspiration, just proving that players should go for goals more! He played a quick free to a colleague, took the return, waltzed much more impressively than anyone on Dancing with the Stars, and fired home

with conviction. Roscommon were level. A quick attack in the last minute had the home crowd on the edge of their seats, those that had seats, that is. We sensed a fabulous win, a brace of muchcoveted league points, a suitable celebration for the home pitch. High excitement as Roscommon bore down on goal and Donegal faced their fate. But Roscommon missed that golden late chance, then Donegal broke downfield to break Roscommon hearts. It was a great game, and Roscommon showed once again that they are moving to a level where they can consistently compete with the top teams in the country. We left the Hyde after an enjoyable afternoon – pointless, but proud.

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Reeling in the Elphin Years…

in hey’re busy preparing to reel in the years by loved much line Elphin and, if I may use a be that slightly eccentric Mr. Trump, ‘it’s gonna

great.’ ‘Reeling My Elphin sources report that rehearsals for of over cast a with in the Elphin Years’ are going well, thirty people involved. a very It’s an original concept and it promises to be loped deve , idea the had s local few A t. nigh enjoyable on it and are now set to present the variety show in the reel th will cast The . next uary Febr of Friday, 24 for last 70 years or so, with a sketch/performance a and dram c, musi re featu will show The de. each deca to sure is that lane ory mem n comedy, a real trip dow inites Elph Non. ages all of le peop in Elph to al appe also very welcome. in It all happens on Friday, the 24th of February€10. n issio Adm pm). (8 re Elphin Community Cent Proceeds to Elphin Community Centre.

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

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Amy, Tara and Aideen pictured in Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Kim Jong-un ... and friends!

he first rule to bear in mind when you are working for North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is: Always smile. At all costs, keep smiling. The second rule to bear in mind is that it helps to jump up in the air every now and again, excitedly waving your hands around. The third rule is to…keep smiling, for God’s sake keep smiling! It goes without saying that if you get a spare moment with the boss, you should tell him that he’s doing a great job. Kim Jong-un reportedly fired a ballistic missile towards the Sea of Japan earlier this week. As you can see, it went down really well with his associates. Well, if they weren’t happy about it, they weren’t going to let it show…

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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Past Pupils of the CBS

Past Pupils Union Launch Thursday, March 2nd In the School Hall at 7pm

Full steam ahead at the < CARMEL KELLY PALMER

Our new County Council offices at Aras An Chontae in Roscommon town provide office accommodation for 250 staff, a council chamber and support facilities for elected members. It really is a futuristic building embracing the present and future needs of the people of Roscommon town and its environs. On a recent visit there, my eyes fell apon a magnificent steamroller taking pride of place in the immense foyer. I recalled one that had stood for a long time outside of the courthouse building (which then housed the Council HQ) and always wondered where its final resting place would be. Would it go to the scrapyard among other forgotten machinery, its life now over like an old pair of boots that had tread on too many roads? Happily, not so. A visit to Senior Engineer John O’Rourke at

his office in the new building, took me down a long and exciting road, introducing me for the first time to steamrollers. John provided me with the history of the machine: “The Aveling and Porter Steam Roller 7601 was restored by KG Engineering, Stradbally, County Laois, now exhibited in the front foyer of Aras an Chontae, under the lightwell which is between Housing and Planning. “It was manufactured in Rochester, Kent, England in 1912 and the manufacturers gave its number as 7601, together with a name plate ‘Invicta’ on the front. From 1912 to the early 1960s, the 12 tonne Aveling and Porter Steam Roller was used for road construction within the county of Roscommon. Often the steam roller towed a ‘living van’, largely made from timber and used by the driver for living quarters. In later years, they were used as on-site canteen. It was last driven by our colleague,

All welcome

newsbrief Lisnamult February Draw The Lisnamult Draw results for this month are as follows: €100 Róisín O’Brown; €100 Vita Whelehan; €50 Vilma Eakins; €25 Derry O’Donnell; €25 Josephine Hennigan and €25 Sr. Claire McGovern.

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

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.”

Mr. Brian Derwin (RIP) on St. Patrick’s Day between the years 2000-2002. “The Aveling and Porter’s logo features a gold (polished brass) rearing horse (before Ferrari used a similar trademark!) and the Latin motto ‘Invicta’ meaning unvanquished – and indeed such was the quality of the design, materials used and workmanship employed that many of them have survived for over 100 years and indeed have been restored to full working order. The most famous perhaps being ‘Betsy’, a similar one with the Serial No 7632 restored by steam enthusiast, Fred Dibnah, presenter of the popular BBC TV Series ‘Made in Britain’. A high quality restoration, it was a frequent winner at many steam rallies throughout Britain. With attractive paint schemes and quality fittings made from brass, which is polished up like gold, the steamroller is a work of art as well as a fascinating piece of technology.” I also spoke to John Connor from Agatharn, Tooreen, Co. Mayo, who worked for Mayo County Council during the 1950s and he was happy to share his memories of the steamrollers. John said: “I started on roadworks in 1958 and in 1959 on a job where there was a steamroller. On road construction at that time we used 2-3 inch broken stone to construct the road. This stone was spread by men with shovels and would be put in layers of 6-8 inches. Each layer would be rolled and compacted by the steamroller. This would be topped off with dust and tar and chippings would be put over that and all rolled and compacted by steamroller. “The steamroller weighed 8 tons but heavier when it was filled with water and fuel – it was continued on page 7 >

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

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

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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civic ofﬁces! < continued from page 6 fuelled by coal and water. There had to be a fire in the roller to heat the water and the steam from the water had to reach 180psi pressure before the roller would move, so the driver had to get up at 5 am every morning to put on the fire in the roller so that it would be ready to start work at 8 am, which was the starting time for road works.” John offered further details about the driver of the steamroller, his work pattern and conditions. “The driver of the steamroller had a caravantype van that he towed behind the roller and he parked this on the side of the road. It had a coal fired stove and a bed which allowed him to cook and sleep there for the week. “When he finished work at 1 pm on a Saturday, which was normal time for finishing in those days (5 and a half day week), he would travel home to wherever he lived, usually on his bicycle. This journey could be 20 or 30 miles and he would cycle back to his van on a Sunday evening in order to be up at 5 am on Monday morning. “Usually, the driver was very black in the face from filling coal into the fire, several times a day. In those days the coal was very dusty. It was a similar operation to what a fireman had to do on the steam train, but not as often. In some parts of the country, the steamroller was used until the mid-60s when it was replaced by the diesel roller.” John began working for the County Council at the very young age of 15, quickly learning the job, moving on to be a ‘ganger’ at 18, foreman at 24 and an overseer at 31, becoming the youngest man ever to hold all the positions with Mayo County Council. In his position of overseer he was responsible for the guidance and completion of numerous projects. He spoke about retiring from Mayo County

Council almost nine years ago. He said: “I retired on the 21st of December 2008, having completed 50 years of unbroken service and I never had a day off sick!” He has travelled many roads throughout Mayo in his working capacity. Now, with his wife Teresa by his side, he is travelling over land and sea to many countries in Europe, having visited parts of Australia of the Australian Outback, including Ayers Rock and the Great Barrier Reef. “We toured New Zealand, both the north and south islands. Returning from Australia and the New Zealand trip we had travelled 28,500 miles. We have been to China and climbed some of the Great Wall and rode on the bullet train at 310kmph. We have been to the United States on several trips and have now visited 30 of the states,” he said. It seems that John has left the ‘steamroller’ days behind and is now on a rollercoaster of his own!

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s many people know, the Sunday

World newspaper has a weekly column known as ‘Pub Spy’ which provides reviews on local pubs around the country. Last week they went undercover in four pubs in Strokestown and Frenchpark: The Sportsman’s Inn and The Central Bar in Strokestown as well as Tully’s and The Sideline in Frenchpark. Although none of the four establishments received the highly sought after ‘5 pint’ rating, they were given very positive reviews from the spies, who found both the staff and atmosphere in each of the pubs to be very friendly and welcoming. They described The Sportsman’s Inn as being an ideal place for parties, commenting: “If you’re planning to hold a party in 2017 then The Sportsman’s Inn could just be the place for you.” They also praised the barmaid in the pub saying: “Her charm will definitely bring us back again.” They were impressed by the cleanliness and warm atmosphere in The Central Bar too. They said: “The tiled and timber floor was spotless and the green and red velvet barstools were in good condition.” There were also positive reviews for the two pubs in Frenchpark. They again praised the politeness of the barman who served them in Tully’s Bar and the pleasant atmosphere in the pub as many of the locals relaxed while “talking about the olden days”.

As for The Sideline, they were impressed with the friendliness of the barmaid who greeted them and also described the snug area opposite the bar to be “very cosy with a solid-fuel stove encased in a yellow-brick fireplace.” So, overall very positive feedback from the spies on their visit and hopefully there are many more reviews like this to come for pubs in County Roscommon. It had been nearly a decade since the spies last visited the Strokestown area but as they were leaving they vowed not to wait so long for the next visit!

Stonecourt, Roscommon 090 6628010 Carrick On Shannon 071-9623309 Ballaghadereen 094-9860277 21 Stores Across Ireland www.paulbyronshoes com

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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Inaugural Ros Run in April < DAN DOONER

Lanesboro Road, Roscommon (Beside Ardcarne Garden Centre) Liam: 086 2480801 Brian: 086 8341780 Phone: 090 6628419 ● Kitchen Restoration ● Handmade Furniture

The first ever Ros Run will take place on Sunday, April 2nd and will include three beautiful routes around the Roscommon countryside. The event will play host to a full marathon, half marathon and a 10Km run and is aimed at people over the age of 18. The Ros Run is being organised by Jonathan Dolan and his partner Claire, who has completed over 80 marathons in the last four years. Claire is also a member of Marathon Club Ireland which boasts

over 2,000 members. Jonathan says the event will provide local runners with a new challenge. “The majority of those are looking for new, well run, challenging and scenic routes. Many of those also want to run a marathon in every county in Ireland and Roscommon does not have this option for them,” he said. Jonathon also confirmed that there has been a popular response to the event already: “I have had a huge response on Facebook and registrations have taken off with almost 100 people signed up to

date. The closest running event was the flat line in Athlone a few years back, which was a 3/4 marathon event and a great success with up on 1,000 participants.” Jonathan added that the event, which he believes will prosper over the next few years in Roscommon, would be extremely beneficial to the town as a whole as it would attract hundreds of participants as well as their supporters and families to the area. For further information, check out the Facebook page, The Ros Run or log onto www.therosrun. com.

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newsbriefs Farmers treated like ‘second-class citizens’ Fianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Galway Eugene Murphy has said farmers throughout Roscommon and Galway are being treated like second-class citizens as the delays in the Department of Agriculture making payments under the GLAS and AEOS schemes are “totally unacceptable.” The latest figures from the Department reveal that there are 1,235 farmers still waiting for their 2016 GLAS payments in County Galway while there are 388 farmers in County Roscommon in the same situation. Some 389 farmers in County Galway have yet to receive their AEOS funds while 128 farmers in County Roscommon are also awaiting this payment. Deputy Murphy has called on the Minister to intervene to relieve the financial pressure many family farms are under as a result of these delays.

Pictured at ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ in The Hub, Castlerea on Friday night last were Claire Kelly, Colin Moules, Mary Heaney and Rob Donnelly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Leyden’s concern on ﬁshing ‘apartheid’ Senator Terry Leyden has voiced his “grave concerns” about fishing permits which apply exclusively on the Rivers Suck, Inny, Brosna, Little Brosna and Camlin and tributaries. Pointing out that the existence of these permits affects parts of Galway, all Roscommon and parts of Westmeath, Longford and Offaly, Senator Leyden described it as a form of apartheid regarding fisheries in Ireland. “Where fisheries in Ireland are regarded as generally free, angling tourists on the River Suck and its tributaries in Counties Roscommon and Galway have to pay for the Midland Fisheries Permit. A 21-day permit costs €25 and an annual adult charge of €45 per year applies.” Senator Leyden raised the issue at a recent briefing by Inland Fisheries Ireland in Leinster House and also brought

the matter up in Seanad Eireann. He said: “In respect of the River Suck, beside which I live, the tributaries of Lough O’Flynn, Hollygrove Lake in Athleague, Stoneham’s Lake in Castlecoote, Lough Lung and Blacks Lough in Castlecoote are all affected by this charge. This is grossly unfair when they are competing with other areas with no fishing permit.” While complimenting the work of Inland Fisheries in respect of investing the money that has been raised in that area to bring about better services and stocking of rivers, he questioned why one area is being discriminated against when it comes to a charge. “If it applies to one area, it should apply to all areas or it should not apply at all. That is my case and I cannot understand why others have not raised this issue.

Senator Terry Leyden

“People who own guesthouses, pubs and other facilities and who pay rates are being affected. The people they want to attract from Italy and Great Britain must pay this fishing permit, which is unique to this area. “People are being told by the magazines that fishing in Ireland is free and that all its rivers run free but that is not the case.” Senator Leyden said that he is now calling on Denis Naughten, Minister for Communications, Climate Change and Natural Resources to intervene on this issue as it affects this constituency.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

NewsPeople Advertorial

Open Evening & Enrolment at

Feevagh N.S. Sporting fun with Prionsias our hurling coach.

A strong sense of community at Feevagh NS Feevagh NS will host an open evening on Tuesday, February 28th. We invite all prospective students and their parents to come along to view the school and its wonderful facilities and meet the staff. Feevagh National School is a unique expanding rural school nestled in the Dysart countryside in the parish of Ballyforan, Dysart and Tisrara. We combine academic excellence with personal care of the individual needs of the children who attend here. A Catholic ethos permeates the life of the school creating a caring and nurturing environment. We pride ourselves on our strong sense of community and aim to provide a cohesive education programme within a caring learning environment. We create a range of extracurricular activities to help our students to grow into independent and responsible learners. Feevagh NS is not only steeped in tradition but is equipped with every modern learning resource and facility. We are delighted with our newly refurbished classrooms. Our highly skilled and dedicated staff support the individual abilities and needs of our children which leads to improved learning outcomes. Our low pupil-teacher ratio provides ample opportunity for individual attention ensuring that each child

A visit from Ben, a fundraising Irish Guide Dog.

reaches their full potential in all areas of school life. Our small school and close-knit community allows us to know each of our students personally and engage on a one to one teach-

ing approach, thus ensuring a more effective schooling. We pride ourselves on being a proactive Green school and are currently working towards our Biodiversity flag. We offer our students a wide variety of sports and physical activities. Last year we successfully completed the Active Schools Programme and received our first Active Flag. We have just completed the Junior Entrepreneur Programme which fosters an awareness and understanding of entrepreneurship. Our showcase of this was a huge success. Other features of our school include many different educational visits and day trips for students in all classes each term. To date we have attended plays and educational shows, visited our local Garda and Fire Stations, local nature features, the Roscommon Arts Centre and art galleries, to name but a few. We frequently invite members of our local community to visit our school. This year local business people, artists, heritage experts, ecologists and historians were among a range of our visitors. You are cordially invited to come along to our open evening to experience Feevagh school first hand and learn more about what we can offer you and your child.

Feevagh, Dysart, Co. Roscommon Parents and children are invited to come along to Feevagh N.S. on Tuesday 28th February from 7.00 to 8.00pm to meet with staff and view our school & its facilities. If this date does not suit or should you have any enquiries prior to that date we may be contacted on 090-6622200 or feevaghns@gmail.com

CIRCULAR ROAD, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON

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newsbrief Customer Service Skills Workshop in Roscommon A two-day workshop in Customer Service Skills will take place in Roscommon Town on Tuesday, 21st and Wednesday, 22nd of February from 10 am to 1 pm with one day’s work experience. This is aimed towards people who are unemployed and would like work in the area of customer service, retail, reception, office, etc. Location at Roscommon LEADER Partnership Offices, Golf Links Road, Roscommon Town. Contact John on 0868192651 or 090-6630252. Places limited, criteria apply. This is funded by Taste for Success, Skillnet and supported by Roscommon LEADER Partnership Company.

Tara Murphy and Evelyn Kilcline pictured at the Monster Auction in St. John’s Community Centre on Sunday evening last. Picture: Andrew Fox.

Warranty on all Frames and Glazing Units* View our Exclusive Odyssey and Icon Ranges at our Showroom – Circular Road, Roscommon Terms and *Terms and Condi Condititions ons appl applyy

Roscommon Community Sports Park meeting The annual General Meeting of Roscommon Community Sports Park will be held on Monday, 6th of March at 7 pm in Lisnamult Community Centre. All are welcome to attend.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

BUSINESS PROFILE

Visit Optilase Athlone for a life-changing experience! I

You have to be at least 18-years-old to be considered for laser eye surgery. Normally we treat people up to the age of 65.

When did you decide to become an optometrist? My family were glasses wearers and when I was doing the Leaving Cert I researched the profession and found that it really interested me. I qualified from DIT in 2008 and I worked as an optometrist in Cork before moving over to London for a few years. Becoming a laser optometrist gives me great job satisfaction. Seeing clients coming in with glasses, having the surgery carried out, and coming back to us with 20/20 vision is very rewarding.

What happens during a consultation? It is very straightforward and would generally last around an hour. The free consultation starts with an instrument called the Pentacam, which takes 25 images of the front of the eye. This provides us with detailed measurements of the shape and thickness of the part of the eye called the cornea. We would then carry out a regular eye test just to check the vision and the prescription, what you would normally experience when you get your eyes tested with your local optometrist. After this we would inspect the health of the eye. As part of the examination, drops are put into the eyes to dilate the pupils and they can stay dilated for about five to six hours after the appointment so clients will be unable to drive for that time. The drops allow us to check the retina at the back of the eye and make sure everything is healthy before we check the vision again. And of course, we will answer any questions the clients may have about the surgery itself.

f you find that your eyesight is regressing or that you are simply fed up of wearing glasses or contact lenses, why not choose laser eye surgery at Optilase Athlone. Located in the heart of Athlone, Optilase provides friendly and expert advice on laser eye surgery. The business offers in-house finance options and clients can avail of 20% tax relief on the cost of the treatment. Optilase Athloneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s optometrist Mairead Clarke talks about the ins and outs of laser eye surgery and why for many the procedure is a life-changing experience.

Is everyone suitable for laser eye surgery? Not everyone is suitable for surgery; it depends on your prescription whether you are short-sighted, long-sighted, and have astigmatism, for example. We offer a free consultation at Optilase. We will scan the eyes to check the topography of the front of the eye, which allows us to ensure that people are suitable for surgery and if they are eligible, which type of surgery will be the most beneficial. An eye test will also be done during the consultation to make sure the eye prescription is stable. Is there an age limit for laser eye surgery?

How would a client prepare for laser eye surgery? Before the consultation, we advise our clients to not wear contact lenses three days before the initial consultation. On the day of the surgery, contact lenses should not be worn for a week; this is for soft contact lenses. Gas permeable lenses would need to be out for longer before surgery. No eye make-up should be applied for a couple of days ahead of the surgery and no perfume or aftershave should be worn on the day of the surgery. And people cannot drink coffee on the day of the surgery. We also recommend to bring non-prescription sun glasses on the day of the surgery as the eyes may be a little sensitive to light and you will need some-

one there with you to drive you home as you will be unable to drive. Can both eyes be treated on the same day? We normally treat both eyes on the same day unless someone has a preference to do one eye one day and the other eye on another date, we can accommodate that as well. How long does the surgery take? It depends on your prescription. On average it will take around seven minutes per eye so you may be in the room for about 15 minutes. However, you will meet with the surgeon on the day and we do a scan with an instrument called the Idesign on the day of surgery. This allows the surgeon to customise the treatment for each individual patient and ensures the best possible results. We say allow at least 2 hours in the clinic. The surgery is performed in our custom-built surgery suite in Dublin but follow up appointments can take place in Optilaseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regional clinics. Are the results of laser eye surgery permanent? The laser eye surgery is permanent. The only thing we cannot control is the lens in the eye, which will weaken over time with age so clients may need reading glasses in the future. Does the surgery hurt? Anaesthetic drops will numb the eyes. People may find the sensation of the laser on their eye as strange but there is no pain involved. The eyes will be a little light sensitive and a little watery after the procedure. What aftercare is needed for the eyes after laser eye surgery? There are two types of laser eye surgery we offer at Optilase. One is called Lasik and is the more popular option. It has been around since the early nineties. The recovery time with Lasik is quick so we would recommend 1-2

Mairead Clarke, optometrist at Optilase in Athlone.

days off work just to rest the eyes. But for the first 1-2 weeks after surgery, clients cannot got to the gym, the swimming pool, sauna, or apply eye makeup. The second procedure we offer at Optilase is PRK. This has a slightly longer recovery time of 5 days. The results are the same for the two type of surgeries but differ in the preparation of the eye for surgery. We can advise you at your initial consultation which surgery you are a candidate for based on our measurements. Will your eyes look different after surgery? A small percentage of patients may have slight bruising on the white of the eyes following the LASIK procedure, this can take a couple of weeks to clear so we tend to recommend you having the procedure done at least 4 weeks prior to any big social occasions, such as your wedding!

The team at Optilase, Athlone.

Does Optilase offer a lifetime care guarantee for laser eye surgery? Yes. Optilase is very confident in its

long-term results so we offer a longterm guarantee. On the rare occasion that you notice a change in your vision in two or three years after laser eye surgery and if we find any regression in the eye, we will retreat free of charge. Are there complications to laser eye surgery? With every surgery there can be issues but with laser eye surgery the chances are minute. We check the eyes the following day after surgery and we will inspect the eyes again at the one-week mark. Dryness can be issue for some clients after surgery but we will provide artificial tears and we will offer care for the first year after surgery so if any issues do arise we can manage them appropriately. Mairead and the team at Optilase thank their customers for their ongoing support and look forward to seeing them over the rest of the year. For more information drop into Optilase, 4, Fairview Terrace, Garden Vale, Athlone, call 1890 301 302, email info@optilase.com or visit www.optilase.com.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re back in the Hyde! (Right) Aengus McDonagh, Brian Greene and Joseph Noonan pictured in Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

(Below) Luca Cormican, Tom Beisty and Ciaran Mulry pictured in Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

NewsPeople

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

NewsPeople Advertorial

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLICATION OF 2017/2018 REGISTER OF ELECTORS AND THE EDITED REGISTER OF ELECTORS The Register of Electors and the Edited Register of Electors for the registration area of County Roscommon for the year 15th February 2017 to 14th February 2018 has now been published. The Registers may be inspected at Áras an Chontae, Roscommon County Council, your Local Municipal District Offices, Head Garda Station, Head Post Office, County Library and Branch Libraries and online at www.checktheregister.ie For further information please contact Corporate Services Section, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. Telephone (090) 6637368/ 147 or email regelectors@roscommoncoco.ie.

You can’t ‘Swiss’ with a Mercedez-Benz! Motor giant at the Geneva Motor Show According to Michael Moore Car Sales Ltd. (Athlone), two new models from the Mercedes-AMG stable – an AMG GT C ‘Edition 50’ Roadster and AMG C 63 Cabriolet ‘Pa-

cific Blue Edition’ will receive their world premiere at the forthcoming Geneva Motor Show. This is to celebrate the 50-year association between Mercedes and AMG.

Other Mercedes-Benz newcomers receiving their world premiere at Geneva will be the EClass Cabriolet and AMG E63 S Estate, while a third E-Class derivative – the new E-Class Coupé – will be unveiled to a European audience for the first time. Other models on show

will be the X-Class pickup concept and the GLA compact SUV, which has received a face-lift! As part of their ‘electric intelligence’ electro mobility offensive, visitors can also catch a first glimpse of the AMG SC 029 EQ performance concept car.

Majella Hunt Director of Services Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98

Notice of Intention to Acquire Derelict Site Compulsorily Under Derelict Sites Act, 1990 (As amended by the Planning and Development Act, 2000) Notice is hereby given that Roscommon County Council (hereinafter referred to as the “local authority”) in exercise of the powers conferred on them by Section 14 of the Derelict Sites Act, 1990 intend to acquire compulsorily under the said Act the derelict site described hereunder. A map of the said derelict site has been deposited at the Customer Service Desk, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon County Council, Roscommon and may be inspected there during office hours. Any owner, lessee or occupier (except a tenant for a month or a period less than a month) may, on or before Monday 20th March 2017, submit to the local authority an objection to the proposed compulsory acquisition of the derelict site. Any such objection must be in writing stating the grounds of the objection and addressed to the local authority at Corporate Services Section, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. The Derelict Sites Act, 1990 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act, 2000) provides that if an objection is made to the proposed compulsory acquisition of a derelict site and the objection is not withdrawn, the derelict site shall not be acquired compulsorily by the local authority without the consent of An Bord Pleanála. Description of Derelict Site proposed to be acquired:

Being premiered at the Geneva Motor Show are these two models produced to mark the 50th anniversary of Mercedes-AMG partnership.

newsbrief

PUBLIC NOTICES ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL COMHAIRLE CONTAE ROS COMÁIN

Roscommon Municipal District Funding Scheme 2017 Roscommon Municipal District are inviting applications from applicants within the Roscommon Municipal District Area who wish to avail of the above funding subject to the scheme’s terms and conditions. The funding is available under the following headings: • Dereliction • Infrastructure • Purchase of capital equipment for use at Festivals and Events • Economic & Community Development • Tourism The minimum amount of funding that a group can apply for is €1,500 and a minimum 5% contribution from the group towards the total cost of the project is required. No maximum amount will be applied to the scheme.

Dated this 14th day of February 2017 Signed: Majella Hunt Director of Services Roscommon County Council Áras an Chontae Roscommon F42 VR98

Application forms and Guidelines are available to download at www.roscommoncoco.ie or from Roscommon Municipal District Office, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon. Tel: 090 66 37236 or email - roscommonmd@roscommoncoco.ie The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, 31st March, 2017 Derek Caldbeck A/ Head of Finance, Housing, ICT & Roscommon Municipal District

Table Quiz success in Ballyleague Thank you to everyone who supported the Ballyleague Tidy Towns table quiz in St. Faithleach’s GAA clubhouse on Friday night. Even though the crowd on the night was not huge, the community supported this event very well. On the night it clashed with a couple of other events yet 12 teams were in place and another 5 teams were paid for before the event even started. So thanks to everyone who came along or sent a donation for a team or sponsored a spot prize. Our special thanks to Michael Cleary who was an excellent quizmaster and to Drive-in Bingo /St. Faithleach’s GAA for the use of the clubhouse. Our Chairman Gerry Trimble is presently doing the sums and will have a full report on the total amount raised and the list of sponsors in due course. It was a busy weekend for Tidy Towns in Ballyleague as our team took part in the ‘One Million Trees In 1 Day Initiative’ on Saturday and planted 60 trees in the village. Our thanks to John Loughlin, Marie Burke, John Francis Donlon, Joe Cribbin, Miriam Burke and Ciaran Mullooly who made arrangements over the weekend for the tree planting in the Riverside park, Ballyclare court, Cluain dara and Ballyleague village centre. If any other area wants some of these free trees, please contact chairman Gerry at 087-6474832 or email: keepballyleaguetidy@gmail.com. In response to proposals from the Transport Infrastructure Ireland organisation to raise the speed limit from 50kph to 60kph in the village, our committee recently met with residents in the area and submitted a petition of over 200 names against the move. Well done to all who took part and especially Gary McKendry who collected the petition at the school. We believe that, due to your support, this speed limit change will not now go ahead.

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

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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From My Kitchen Table MIRIAM KERINS

Cannabis at the chemist? It’s about time!

iven last week’s

explosive litany of disclosures that saw Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald both refusing to say when they’d first heard of the chilling and entirely false allegations of sexual abuse that were contained in a Tusla file against Garda whistleblower Maurice McCabe – an innocent man who became a gigantic thorn in the establishment’s side – I would have to say one would wonder if our Government Ministers even correspond with eachother any more? I mean, the whole debacle beggars belief and leads me, and probably other right-thinking citizens, to wonder if a massive cock-up of biblical proportions has occured, or if there is now a level of ineptitude and incompetence in place that is surely so huge the collective electorate would need to have the intellectual ability of a gnat to swallow what’s currently going on. Or indeed, if there was a major,

conniving frame-up going down… either way, a good cop’s life and his family’s lives are being ruined and some levels relating to the integrity, lack of scruples and the proficiency of some of our state bodies has now come under question. But now that I’ve got that off my chest, I will say that thank God our Government has managed to do at least one thing right last week when they decided to make cannabis available to treat a ‘limited number of medical conditions,’ despite there being a lack of evidence around its safety and effectiveness. Look, pot, weed, cannabis, marijuana, (call it what you will), has I suppose been somewhat politically correct on university campuses since the 1960s (I could be wrong in assuming this), however it’s also been blamed along with alcohol for impairing one’s inhibition. But I wouldn’t know, I’ve never smoked a normal cigarette let alone touched this or any other illegal substance.

However, the fact is, 92% of Irish people believe that weed should be legalised when prescribed by a doctor, and given a researcher at the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System in the US has found its actually less addictive than the three cups of coffee I drink daily, I’d have to agree with them. In addition, for years advocates as well as studies have shown that medical marijuana can be used quite effectively to treat lots of conditions; and for those people suffering with such health disorders as multiple sclerosis and severe epilepsy, and for patients suffering intractable nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, I believe a restricted use under a doctor’s supervision surely cannot do them any harm; especially if it gives them respite from their debilitating conditions. Another plus is having a bit of dope around…for medicinal purposes only of course… could make listening to the

Annual Woodlands 5k/10k Run/Walk On Sunday, 20th of April Loughglynn will once again host its annual Woodlands Run/Walk. This annual timed event has proven to be a great success and this year’s proceeds will go to the CPR/Defibrillator project. All are welcome to take part.

Polytunnel event at Ardcarne Centre Discover how to grow your own tasty, nutritious and early-maturing vegetables at a polytunnel event at Ardcarne Garden Centre, Boyle and Roscommon Town on Saturday, 18th of February at 11.30 am-12.30 pm. This event is free of charge and all are welcome. For further information contact 071-9667091, visit www.ardcarne.ie or follow us on at http://www.facebook. com/ardcarnegardencentre.

Mountbellew No Name Club likes of Madonna’s music much more easy on the ear. Now I’m not advocating that people should be allowed go mad, run down to the local chemist and demand a joint in the same way they would a packet of paracetamol, neither am I saying it should be legal to dish out your own homegrown stash to the neighbours…if you had one that is;

Lovely Linda’s not a dead ringer for style! Well readers, last Friday night at great risk to my mental health, I tuned into the Late Late Show’s Valentine’s Special and ended up having front row seats at what was possibly the most disastrous piece of TV in Irish history with the first thought going through my head being ‘Why Me?’ I mean I just kept thinking, what egregious crime did I commit that I’m forced to sit here and watch this spectacle? Let me explain. Desperation seeping from every pore, looking like the ‘70s had thrown up and landed all over her, Panto/Eurovision Queen Linda Martin, possibly the most dangerous thing to happen to old men since the invention of Viagra – dressed in a black leather jacket/mini skirt/fishnet tights/heels combo; hair backcombed so high it looked like she’d hidden an Easter egg in it – and acting like your drunk granny after too many sherries, dueted with comedian Al Porter on Meatloaf and Cher’s Dead Ringer for Love. Dead Minger for Love more like! Look, I’m all for glam grans and all that – sure take the likes of Lulu, Helen Mirren and the fabulous Joanna Lumley. They’re elegant, confident and like Ms. Martin, ahem, pensioners; yet you wouldn’t see them prancing around dressed in such questionable attire… now would you? Now I’m not saying the lovely Linda, who normally looks absolutely amazing BTW, should fade into a wisp of pastel and check into an old folks’ home. However, witnessing her fishnet stockinged leg writhing up and down Al Porter’s thigh, nearly revealing her, er, breakfast, left me decidedly slack-jawed and wondering why someone in the RTE wardrobe department didn’t take this vibrant, gorgeous, sexy lady aside and tell her whatever look she was going for, she’d clearly missed. Look folks, I’m all for giving a hair-tossing shoulder shrug to age and wearing what you want, sure I do it every single day, but I try to do it by not shying away from applying that one little rule that sophisticated Roscommon ladies would call style.

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Al Porter and Linda Martin roll back the years opening the Late Late Show with a rendition of Dead Ringer for Love

but for those poor suffering people who’re living with chronic pain, causing sleep deprivation and incapacitation, for those whose bodies due to their disabling conditions are constantly rejecting themselves, I have to say I’m glad our Government has realised that it’s about time they were given some understanding, help and compassion.

My hubby’s a keeper! I hope you all had a wonderful see, Valentine’s weekend; I did. You eky as we’re both what some chehing oac ppr …a call people would middle age…and, as we’ll be together nine years in April, and looking forward to our fourth , you wedding anniversary in Augustserial could say, we’re no longer the ve hit snoggers we used to be; but we’able what I call that blissful comfort stage in our lovely relationship er where we do everything togeth ds and enjoy spending our weekens and participating in mutual hobbieand dote on our pack of fur babies our granddaughter. n So I suppose last weekend, eve rs though I wasn’t expecting flowe wasn’t or choccies, in the same way I antic rom st mo by’s hub prepared for tures. gesture to beat all romantic ges t that fac the on up ing pick , see You ctically the neat freak in me was pra dog panicking over the amount of need hair on the rug and the urgent of the to polish the handprints out y sharp dining table, this wonderfull d to and amazing man I’m marrie a coffee said…wait for it…you have OMG, darling, I’ll hoover the house!iously I went weak at the knees. Ser … girls, I was rendered speechless with. not a condition I often suffer ! per kee a is n ma ic My romant

Interviews were held recently to select a Host and Hostess to represent Mountbellew No Name Club in the regional competition for the Youth Awards. Maebh Gilmore, a pupil of St. Mary’s College, Ballygar was selected as the Hostess for 2017, with Odharna Raftery, a pupil of Holy Rosary College, Mountbellew runner-up. Ruairi Fallon, a pupil of Holy Rosary College, Mountbellew was selected as the Host for 2017, and Aaron Roche, a pupil at St. Mary’s College, Ballygar was runner-up. The regional final will take place in Claremorris on Saturday, 4th of March. The next outing for the club is the Valentine’s Ball on Wednesday, 22nd of February in the McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris.

Children’s Fun February Film All children are invited to Kilmovee’s Thatch Cottage on Friday, 24th of February from 2 pm-4 pm for a Fun February Film. Admission costs €5 for a movie, popcorn and drink. For ages 5-12.

Irish United Nations Roadshow for Kilmovee Irish United Nations Veterans Association presents the Irish United Nations Road Show in Kilmovee’s Thatch Cottage on Tuesday, 21st of February at 8 pm. Jim Casey presents a fascinating evening of information and film on the formation and role of the Irish United Nations Troops. Admission costs €5 and includes refreshments. Doors open at 7.30 pm. All are welcome.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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‘Election of the Snows’ remembered in Boyle

oyle Courthouse played host to a commemorative weekend recently to mark 100 years since the election of Count George Noble Plunkett as MP for North Roscommon in a historic by-election, which set the scene for Sinn Féin’s success in the General Election of 1918. The event became known as the ‘Election of the Snows’ due to the fact that the election team struggled against the wintry conditions, which hampered the 1917 election campaign. The courthouse in Boyle had recently been refurbished for the event and the commemoration included a re-enactment of the election count of 1917. There was also a keynote address from Sinn Féin vicepresident, Mary-Lou McDonald as well as a talk given by Honor O’Brolchain, Count Plunkett’s great-granddaughter and grand-niece of Joseph Plunkett who was a leader of the 1916 Easter Rising.

Shane Cronin, Jimmy McGivern, Cllr. Michael Mulligan and John Cranogue pictured at Boyle Courthouse during events to mark the 100th anniversary of the Election of the Snows. Pic: Mary Regan

Henry Hughes, Polling Officer, pictured at Boyle Courthouse during events to mark the 100th anniversary of the Election of the Snows. Pic: Mary Regan

Mary Lou McDonald, Sinn Féin TD, pictured at Boyle Courthouse during events to mark the 100th anniversary of the Election of the Snows. Pic: Mary Regan

‘Count Plunkett’ pictured with supporters following his election victory. Pic: Mary Regan

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

POLITICAL PEOPLE

The Maurice McCabe I know… < PAUL HEALY

s the Roscommon People, due to the sheer scale and significance of the scandal, finds itself reporting and commenting on the Maurice McCabe saga, time for me to declare an interest, I guess. Garda Detective Maurice McCabe is a first cousin of mine. His late mother, Peggy, and my mother, were sisters. Maurice is one of six children born to Peggy and Michael. Michael McCabe, Maurice’s father, is still alive and well. They are all, as the saying goes, ‘the finest of people’… The family grew up near Ballyjamesduff in Co. Cavan. For many years they ran a hotel there – the Sheelin Shamrock Hotel. As kids, we had many happy times there. I first heard of the McCabes’ ordeal about eight or nine

A scandal that has rocked the state: Sergeant Maurice McCabe (left) and (on right) former Garda Commissioner, Martin Callinan and current Garda Commissioner, Nóirín O’Sullivan.

years ago – from the man himself. Fiona and I were attending a family wedding and were seated with a number of cousins and their partners. Without getting into specifics, a clearly stressed Maurice McCabe chatted to us that day about the path he was on. He was a year or two

into his whistleblowing by then. He was now paying a severe price, he told us, alluding to how he was being treated and indeed targeted. While I found it all interesting – not to mention shocking – and obviously had sympathy for Maurice, I had no idea of how

big this would all become. Now, in 2017, it is obvious that there are a number of Garda whistleblowers in existence, and the anecdotal ‘evidence’ suggests that they have all been subjected to harassment – and worse. What has happened to Maurice McCabe (and his family)

is almost beyond belief. Maurice and Lorraine McCabe have this week welcomed the decision of the Government to hold a public Tribunal which will address the McCabe controversy, and one hopes that it will, in time, give them the justice they deserve.

Do Terry and Eugene need to talk? < PAUL HEALY

Are people in Fianna Fáil in Roscommon talking to people in Fianna Fáil in Roscommon? Is there a reappraisal of Fianna Fáil’s policy on Roscommon A&E underway, or is Senator Terry Leyden on a solo run? A quick recap: Fianna Fáil (with some justification) boasted for years that, it was only thanks to that party that Roscommon A&E was (a) opened in the first place and (b) remaining open. When the facility closed in 2011, Fianna Fáil turned its ire on Fine Gael. And that was justified. Yet, in

the October 2014 byeelection, the party’s candidate, Ivan Connaughton, was prevented from advancing a ‘restore A&E’ stance. Eugene Murphy didn’t make A&E restoration a part of his General Election campaign last year either. A few months ago, the Roscommon People invited Fianna Fáil Leader Micheál Martin to make a pledge on Roscommon A&E, but he politely declined. Now (last week’s Roscommon People) Senator Terry Leyden is calling for Roscommon A&E to be reopened, and specifically applying pressure on Minister Denis Naughten,

asking that the Independent Minister “put a gun to Enda Kenny’s head” on the issue. Where is FF on A&E? We thought they had

abandoned it as a red-line issue, but now Senator Leyden would appear to be reeling in the years. We assume Senator Leyden will demand that Deputy

Murphy ‘puts a gun’ to the Fianna Fáil leader’s head over Roscommon A&E when the next General Election campaign kicks off…

Deputy Eugene Murphy (left) and Senator Terry Leyden (right) may need to discuss their party’s policy on Roscommon A&E. Pictured with the duo at last year’s General Election count was long-time Fianna Fáil activist P. Burke.

Enda: Caught between a Rock and… < PAUL HEALY

On the JF Show on Shannonside late last year, I was asked how long did I think Enda had left as Taoiseach. I detected some eyebrows being raised in studio when I replied ‘He’ll be gone by June of 2017.’

I now need to update my prediction. I now expect Kenny to be gone within weeks. McCabe-gate has given the Fine Gael backbenchers their opening. The die is cast. They would have found a way anyway. Nothing personal, just politics. While Kenny has handled the

whistleblower controversy quite shambolically, the main reason Fine Gael have to say goodbye is because every extra week the Taoiseach remains on in power is a very happy week for Fianna Fáil. It’s tough on Kenny, but hey, he’s had a great innings. His time

is up now – and I’m also predicting that Garda Commissioner Nóirín O’Sullivan needs to start clearing her desk. Backbench Fine Gael TD Noel Rock opened the exit door for Kenny earlier this week. Truly, the Mayo man is caught between a Rock and a hard place.

As to who is culpable for this debacle, suffice to say that the hierarchy in An Garda Síochána has a lot of questions to answer. As in so many organisations and bodies, the rank and file are being let down by those at the top. The vast majority of the thousands of men

and women who are in An Garda Síochána are great, honourable, honest and hard-working people. People to whom we are indebted, people who serve society with distinction. However, there is a very sinister cloud hanging over the Garda hierarchy. I might add that the same cloud also hangs over Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, who also have the most serious of questions to answer. Who can say where this scandal will end? It has, if I may borrow Pat Rabbitte’s phrase from another time, truly rocked the state. It may take years to get to that end. Before we get there, or when we get there, some heads need to roll, and some serious change needs to be implemented. Because, just now, this crisis involving Garda hierarchy, state agencies and perhaps even sections of the political establishment, absolutely stinks.

It all makes perfect sense! Enda Kenny told us all about a meeting/conversation he had with Minister Zappone which the Taoiseach said took place prior to her meeting with the McCabe family. He asked her to take careful note of her meeting with the McCabes whenever she was meeting them. Now Mr. Kenny has clarified the situation. He had no such meeting/conversation with Minister Zappone prior to her meeting with the McCabes. So the Taoiseach, during his RTE Radio interview on Sunday, went into some detail about a conversation with Minister Zappone which never took place. Meanwhile, Sinn Fein launched a no confidence (in the Government) motion, no doubt in the knowledge that it wouldn’t succeed. But, in a normal political environment it would have succeeded, in that, such is the scale of the McCabe scandal, Fianna Fáil would have supported it. But Fianna Fail didn’t support it, because they aren’t ready for an election at the moment. They are keeping their powder dry just now. Fianna Fáil, in effectively supporting the Government at this chaotic time, are justifying their stance with all kinds of dodgy sermons from the high moral ground. I suppose they can argue that they entered into an agreement (to support the old enemy) that they want to honour…! Labour Leader Brendan Howlin is wide-eyed with wonder (apparently) at the ineptitude of a Government which is made up, primarily, of people he sat in Cabinet with for several years, up to twelve months ago. As I write on Wednesday, the Independent Alliance are meeting to discuss their response to the McCabe controversy. I’m not holding my breath… Can someone please explain the term ‘new politics’ to me? – PH

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

POLITICAL PEOPLE

McCabe, media and ‘the acceptable opposition’ < LUKE ‘MING’ FLANAGAN

rendan Howlin is acceptable. Micheál Martin is acceptable. People who vote for them have more of a right to be listened to than those who vote for the likes of Mick Wallace, Clare Daly and myself. That is the reason why over the last week both the Labour Party and Fianna Fáil have been allowed to move centrestage on the issue of Garda malpractice. Mainstream journalism does not really accept the result of the 2011 General Election. It does not accept the result of the 2016 General Election. Unless you come from the old guard of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Labour, then you are irrelevant in the eyes of mainstream media, with a few rare exceptions. After years of seeing the big three political parties attempting to run this country and failing miserably, the people decided they wanted a change – more variety, more representatives that spoke like they did themselves, that looked like they did themselves. Our media found this disturbing. After years of simply having to engage with three parties, they now had to deal

with a myriad of groups, alliances, different individuals. Rather than actually listen to us, however, they classified us a rabble; rather than honestly analyse what we say and report it, they dismissed it, rubbished it, diverted attention from what we were saying by talking about what we looked like. So when people such as Clare and Mick raised issues about Garda malpractice, spent months on end in the last Dáil building the house that is accountability, their efforts (for the most part) went unreported. Question after question was tabled, tactics perfected and employed to make it more likely that those questions would be discussed orally and not dismissed as they are when replied to in written form. Ex-

“

perts on policing were consulted, Bills were constructed – a huge body of work. Yet, when push came to shove, and despite all that work, last year it was Micheál Martin given the credit for bringing the whole fiasco with Shatter and Callinan to a head. What Micheál Martin said in the Dáil about Maurice McCabe was all said before by Mick and Clare. Was it said more eloquently by Mícheál, more passionately, with any more depth of knowledge? No – anything but. But it was said by the leader of Fianna Fáil. The house of accountability so carefully constructed by the real opposition was moved into by the acceptable opposition, with the media driving the removals van. Mícheál Martin, the man who instructed his

party to vote against ombudsman legislation which would have changed everything, was now the man to change everything. Which brings us to the present. The new champion of our mainstream media, the new acceptable opposition, is Brendan Howlin. Forget the fact that when in Government, Brendan trashed Mick Wallace’s attempts at bringing in decent ombudsman legislation; forget the fact that Howlin himself introduced Whistleblower legislation which is useless; forget that Howlin ‘sat idly by’ as Enda Kenny made a joke of allegations that there was heroin dealing taking place at Athlone Garda station; forget all that because, you know, there is an acceptable opposition

The new champion of our mainstream media, the new acceptable opposition, is Brendan Howlin

NALLY BROTHERS

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

and there is an unacceptable opposition. The Labour Party’s turn has come to wear that acceptable hat. The message to the people from our media is clear: you should vote only for someone within the very limited spectrum that is Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael or Labour. That’s the spectrum our media understands, that’s the spectrum which itself has an understanding with the media. Perception is what it’s all about as our media tries to

convince us that switching from a Fine Gael-led coalition to a Fianna Fáil-led coalition is change. It’s not. Heroes like Maurice McCabe, Nicky Keogh, Keith Harrison and John Wilson are to be used as tools in the resurrection of the political careers of acceptable opposition, but they will ultimately be shafted. I feel sick thinking about it. * Luke ‘Ming’ Flanagan is an MEP for Midlands North West constituency

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

NewsPeople PUBLIC NOTICES ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL COMHAIRLE CONTAE ROS COMÁIN

PROVISION OF FUNERAL DIRECTOR SERVICES Roscommon County Council intends to form a panel for the provision of Funeral Director Services for the removal of remains from the scene of death to Roscommon University Hospital at the request of the County Coroner or the local Gardaí.

Murphy maintains pressure on need for child psychologist

ianna Fáil TD for Roscommon/Gal-

way Eugene Murphy has highlighted the fact that over 130 children are currently waiting for an assessment with a child psychologist in County Roscommon with some children waiting over a year for an appointment. Deputy Murphy tabled a parliamentary question with the Minister for Health Simon Harris in relation to the number of children in County Roscommon waiting for an assessment with

a child psychologist over the past two years. The Fianna Fáil TD said that 132 children are currently on the waiting list in County Roscommon to see a child psychologist with some children waiting over a year for an appointment. The average waiting time is over four months but the longest waiting time is 56 weeks. Deputy Murphy says the figures in Roscommon represent a huge increase. Last summer a child psychologist in County

Applications are invited from interested parties to be included on a Panel. The Agreed Scheme/ Application Form may be obtained by contacting the Procurement Section, Finance Business Unit, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, at 090 6637316 or procurement@roscommoncoco.ie.

NEWSDESK What’s making the news this week ...

Completed application forms must be returned to the address below, no later than 4.00p.m. on Tuesday, 7th March 2017. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Paul and Evelyn in call on Roscommon cyclists

Procurement Section, Finance & Business Unit, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL COMHAIRLE CONTAE ROS COMÁIN

TENDERS FOR THE PROVISION OF SERVICES BY FUNERAL DIRECTORS TO THE COUNTY CORONER Tenders are invited from Funeral Directors for the conveyance of the deceased remains from Roscommon University Hospital to University College Hospital Galway for post mortem examination. Further details can be obtained by contacting the Procurement Section, Finance Business Unit, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, at 090 6637316 or procurement@roscommoncoco.ie. Sealed Tenders should be addressed to Corporate Services, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon and should be submitted not later than 4.00p.m. Tuesday, 7th March 2017. Procurement Section, Finance Business Unit, Roscommon County Council, Áras an Chontae, Roscommon.

Mrs. Mary M. Leyden was recently conferred with a First Class Honours M.A. in History of the Family from University of Limerick. She is accompanied by her husband, Senator Terry Leyden. Her dissertation concerned the tenant family experience on the Coote estate in Co. Roscommon.

Rachel’s Triathlon challenge Six GMIT students who are not actively involved in sport or daily exercise have signed up to take part in Lough Cutra Castle Triathlon in May, as part of a major campaign to boost students’ mental health and wellbeing through sport. The campaign was launched in GMIT last week by GMIT lecturer and artist Lynne O’Loughlin in collaboration with the Galway Triathlon Club, two GMIT student societies (Culture and Wellbeing Society and the Mental Health Society), the GMIT School of Science & Computing, the GMIT Centre for Creative Arts & Media, Kingfisher Club (Renmore) and The Hurt Locker. The six students include Rachel Maloney from Creggs, Co. Galway, who is studying Sport & Exercise Science. A documentary will be filmed about the campaign including interviews and footage of the six students’ efforts. A social media campaign will also document their activities, thoughts and progress. For further information contact lynne.oloughlin@ gmit.ie.

Sports journalist and former professional cyclist Paul Kimmage is calling on cycling enthusiasts in Roscommon to join him and his daughter Evelyn on a 600km challenge in aid of The Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) this June. The duo, along with many others, will be leading the way in the picturesque Porto to Lisbon event and pedalling for the IHF’s Nurses for Night Care service. This is a fantastic way to challenge yourself in 2017 and see the beautiful coastline and countryside of Portugal. Launching the cycle, Sunday Independent journalist Paul Kimmage said: “I’ve cycled for this worthy cause for the past two years. On those journeys I’ve heard

inspirational stories from fellow cyclists about Nurses for Night Care service. Nurses work throughout the night enabling people to spend their final days at home with families by their side. This year my daughter Evelyn is joining me, making it an even more special experience as family is everything.” The Kingspan-sponsored cycle has raised €1.5m for the IHF since it started in 2009 and takes place from June 25th to July 1st. Registration closes on 20th March. Flights, accommodation and full board are included and full details can be found at www.hospicefoundation.ie or by calling 01-6793188. Registration closes on 20th March.

Former cycling pro Paul Kimmage and his daughter Evelyn call on Roscommon cycling enthusiasts to join them and cycle for care on a 600km challenge in aid of The Irish Hospice Foundation this June. Pictured with Tommy Horkan (age 9) and Laura Manning (age 8).

newsbrief Roscommon Garden Club The next meeting of the Roscommon Garden Club is on Monday, 27th of February at 8 pm at the Abbey Hotel. Last month we should have had Paraic Horkan as our speaker but unfortunately he was unable to attend due to unforeseen circumstances. This month hopefully he will be with us and his topic is ‘Garden design and seasonal tips and ideas.’ After the long winter we have all had plenty of time to think about our gardens and all the problems we have experienced. Bring your questions along and Paraic will be able to answer them and guide us in the right direction before the full gardening season begins.

Roscommon went on sick leave and the post has been vacant since. Noting that a number of Syrian children will be arriving in the county in the coming weeks Deputy Murphy said it is vital that the Minister for Health now fast-tracks this vacancy and treats the appointment of child psychologist for County Roscommon as a priority. Minister Denis Naughten has already indicated that the matter is being treated as a priority.

O’Sullivan has to go – Fitz

I GMIT students and staff involved in the campaign to promote positive mental health and wellbeing, l to r, back row: Dr. Luca Mirimin, Robert Mooney, Dr. Debbie Corcoran, Lynne O’Loughlin, Wesley Williams, Aidan Curry, Jim Vaughan. Front: Niamh Jones, Rachel Maloney and Mark O’Brien.

ndependent TD Michael Fitzmaurice is in no doubt

about the course of action Garda Commissioner Noirin O’Sullivan should take as the Maurice McCabe scandal continues to engulf the Government and An Garda Siochana. Deputy Fitzmaurice says Commissioner O’Sullivan must step aside from her position in the interests of the country in general while the inquiry is underway. “The Garda Commissioner is entitled to her good name but there are very serious allegations being made against senior Gardaí and it would be prudent for her to step aside pending the outcome of the inquiry in the public interest and in the interest of the force,” he said.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

NewsPeople

Major grant for Roscommon Arts Centre Roscommon Arts Centre have received funding to improve the facility for visitors and wheelchair users for the sum of €276,615. A total of 56 cultural organisations will benefit from this capital investment including theatres, heritage centres, galleries, archives, integrated arts centres, artist studios and creative and performance spaces. Glenamaddy Arts & Historical Society received a grant of €50,000 for maintenance work. News of the funding has been welcomed by Minister Denis Naughten, Deputy Michael

Fitzmaurice, Senators Frank Feighan and Maura Hopkins and Cllr. Nigel Dineen, all of whom issued press statements to that effect. Minister Naughten said: “A further allocation of funding under this scheme will be announced in the coming weeks. It will be geared towards providing smaller capital grants of up to €20,000 to not-for-profit organisations with a defined arts and cultural remit. “This funding will make a huge difference to individual groups and organisations involved,” concluded Minister Naughten.

Paddy Davis, Betty Davis, Ryan Ben and Natasha Dolan pictured at the Monster Auction at St. John’s Community Centre on Sunday evening last. Picture: Andrew Fox

newsbrief Mindfulness Course at Ardcarne Garden Centre Mindfulness Course for Better Living, begins Wednesday, 22nd of February (10 am-12.30 pm) for eight weeks at Ardcarne Garden Centre, Boyle. The course will focus on teaching practical skills to support physical and mental wellbeing. For more information visit www. mymindfuldawn.com or telephone Maura: 087-2465860.

Feighan welcomes DEIS plan to tackle educational disadvantage Senator Frank Feighan has welcomed the launch of the DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) Plan 2017, launched this week by the Minister for Education and Skills, Richard Bruton. “There are three Roscommon schools which have been given new DEIS status. “The new DEIS school support programme, which delivers additional resources to benefit these schools, will be implemented from September 2017.”

Successful Table Quiz for Roscommon Ploughing Association Roscommon Ploughing Association held a very successful table quiz in Cuisle, Donamon on last Friday night, 10th of February. There was a very large crowd in attendance on the night. A sincere thanks to all who attended. Thank you to Cuisle for making their premises available on the night and for providing the lovely refreshments served on the night. Thanks to our quizmaster, score checker, and to everyone who made the night such a wonderful success. We would like to thank our wonderful sponsors who contributed so generously.

Success for Rahara NS at All-Ireland Minor Schools Swimming Gala The All-Ireland Minor Schools Swimming Championship finals took place in the National Aquatic Centre, Blanchardstown on Sunday, 12th of February. Rahara NS pupil, Lorraine Moran (4th class) participated in two swimming events, representing her school and her province in this prestigious All-Ireland swimming event. Lorraine qualified for the 50 metre freestyle event and the 50 metre backstroke event. Lorraine was delighted with her performances and achieved a personal best in the backstroke event. She also gained invaluable experience from competing in Ireland’s premier swimming facility. She did herself, her family and Rahara NS very proud. Well done Lorraine!

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

NewsPeople

Roscommon return to the Hyde ...

Chairpersons and secretaries from all of the clubs in Roscommon pictured at the official launch of the new facilities at Dr. Hyde Park. Picture: Andrew Fox

Oisín O’Flaherty, Eanna Henry, Paudie Ó Leocháín and Liam O’Flaherty pictured in Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

Canon Liam Devine tests out the playing conditions as he kicks the match ball down the pitch. Pictured also are Brian Carroll, Roscommon County Board Secretary, Seamus Sweeney, Roscommon County Board Chairman, John Corcoran, Roscommon County Board and Pat Teehan, GAA Infrastructure Committee. Picture: Andrew Fox

St. Dominic’s win All-Ireland Scór na nÓg! The St. Dominic’s Scór na nÓg team which claimed the All-Ireland title in the Léiriú section at the Waterfront in Belfast, returned home to Knockcroghery to a hero’s welcome last Saturday. The team, which includes Dearbhla McCormack, Courtney Kelly, Shane Murphy, Karol Feerick, Lorcan Kelly, Ina Van Opstal, David Clarke and Aine Keenan was presented also presented to the crowd at half-time of last Sunday’s Allianz NFL match between Roscommon and Donegal at Dr. Hyde Park. The winning piece, which was written by Zoe Finan, who has represented St. Dominic’s at previous finals, featured Finn McCool and The Salmon of Knowledge and was brilliantly delivered by the young team members. Our congratulations to St. Dominic’s GAA club on bringing the All-Ireland title back to Roscommon! Pictured left are members of the St. Dominic’s GAA All-Ireland winning Scór na nÓg team. Pic: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

Weekend

PEOPLE

FACES AND PLACES

See pages 26 & 27

Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin entry deadline

‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ in The Hub, Castlerea Pictured (right) at ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ in The Hub, Castlerea on Friday night last were Claire Kelly, Marie Baggott, Ann Grealy and Elizabeth Hall. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ in The Hub, Castlerea on Friday night last were Joanne Jordan, Colin Moules and Claire Kelly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ in The Hub, Castlerea on Friday night last were Catherine Cornwall and Jean McCormack. Picture: Andrew Fox

Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin will for the first time be held in a small village – the beautiful surroundings of Castlecoote/Fuerty (9 km west of Roscommon Town) or Baile Mhic Oireachtaigh/Fiodharta over the Easter weekend. Arrangements are going steadily ahead and extra volunteers should contact the Cathaoirleach, PJ Naughton. Competitions will be held from about 3 pm on the Sunday after the Official Opening and much earlier on Monday, from a time yet to be decided, instead of the usual – from very early morning Monday only. This change is necessary because of the smaller number of venues available. A shuttle bus will run between the competition venues and also between the three pubs. The local committee is planning a number of novelty events. Fleadh entries and fees must be with your local Comhaltas branch rúnaí/secretary by Saturday, 4th of March (new rules). Late entries will not be accepted. Entry forms are available to download from two Facebook pages – Fleadh Cheoil Ros Comáin 2017 or Comhaltas Bhaile Ros Comáin. For further information, please contact Athleague branch rúnaí Teresa Murray on 087-2897576, Athleague; Roscommon Town Branch rúnaí Liam Ó Cuinneagáin, 086-3345817, 1, Cloonbrackna Avenue; Athlone/South Roscommon: Mary O’Connor, 0906489218, Carraigín, Knockcroghery; Strokestown: Rose Mary Lyttle, 086-2102765, Corskeagh, Strokestown; Elphin: Paraic McDermott, 086-4118868, Clooneybrennan, Elphin; Keadue: Carmel Benson, 087-1461053, Keadue Village; Castlerea: Peter Savage, 086-2712516, c/o Cahill’s, Ballindrimlea, Castlerea.

A Murder Mystery in Mayo...at Roscommon Arts Centre!

Gary Murphy.

Roscommon Arts Centre’s 2017 season of theatre kicks off to a fantastic start on Thursday, 23rd of February at 8 pm with ‘Before Monsters Were Made’ written by Ross Dungan. You know you are in for a treat when you have a cast that have appeared in shows such as ’The Commitments’, ’Ripper Street’, ’Rebellion’, ’The Tudors’, ’Moone Boy’ and ’The Wind That Shakes The Barley’. And if you like psychological thrillers with humour in parts or who-dunnit mysteries that have you on the edge of your seats, then this type of play is right up your street! David is a man struggling to hold together his marriage when the small town he lives in

is rocked by the sudden, untimely death of a local girl. As details are uncovered, rumours and talk take hold of the town, and it starts to force David to revisit old memories. Set in 1960s Ireland, ‘Before Monsters Were Made’ is the story of how a few small words can have a very big impact. When suspicion and old stories start to spread like a virus, how well do we know the people we trust the most? If you want an exciting and gripping evening of theatre that you’ll talk about on the way home in the car and over the next few weeks, book your tickets now for ‘Before Monsters Were Made’ through the box office on 090 6625824/www.roscommonartscentre.ie

Orla Fitzgerald.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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

Hamrock’s Athleague, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 6663325 Saturday night, 18th February:

The Lancers A BIG BIRTHDAY Tommy Stocker (aka Tom Stevens of Crofton Music) is celebrating his 70th Birthday on Friday, February 17th in the Tulsk Inn at 10pm and wants everyone to join the party. Tommy will also be giving a farewell performance on the night as he retires from a remarkable 55 years in the music business.

Open event to mark Youth Theatre re-launch This week, the National Association for Youth Drama re-launched as Youth Theatre Ireland. To mark this exciting new era and change, Youth Theatre Ireland will be promoting an Open Week showcasing the work of its members. Guests are invited to experience firsthand the diversity of work supported by Youth Theatre Ireland with 2,700 young people and over 4,000 hours of drama activities per year. Roscommon County Youth Theatre is affiliated to Youth Theatre Ireland and will be getting in on the action with an open event on Saturday (18th) from 10 am-12.30 pm. If you’ve ever wanted to know more about what we do in Roscommon Coun-

ty Youth Theatre, come join us to see an open workshop and look into our archives to see what we have done in the past. This event is for young and old, it is free of charge and no registration is needed. This spring, Roscommon County Youth Theatre will be performing Animal Farm by George Orwell, adapted by Peter Hall. You can catch the show April 27th -29th at Roscommon Art Centre. Suitable for adults and young people 11 years of age and over. School groups are welcome. Animal Farm is also on the Junior Cycle Syllabus. School shows are at 11 am and evening shows at 8 pm. Bookings 090 66 25 824 or www.roscommonartscentre.ie.

Telephone: 090 6626225 Friday 17th February:

The Square House Social

Following this Ray Montana will finish the night with more singing and dancing. So come on down and join the craic! No cover charge.

Saturday 18th February:

Moon Looks On

Castlecoote Lodge BAR AND LOUNGE Castlecoote, Roscommon

“IRISH TRAD NIGHT” This Friday night 17th February at 10 P.M. Musicians, singers, dancers, storytellers, customers and friends all welcome.

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

Pictured at ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ in The Hub, Castlerea on Friday night last were Emma and Sarah Donelan. Picture: Andrew Fox

Night of music at Castlecoote Lodge A great night of traditional music, song, dance and story is in store at Castlecoote Lodge Bar and Lounge this Friday night (17th) commencing as usual at 10 pm. Musicians and entertainers come from a wide area of the surrounding coun-

ties to take part in these sessions at the Lodge and the Leyden family are noted for the hospitable welcome offered to entertainers and audience alike. So come along this Friday and enjoy a great night of entertainment!

‘EPIC’ Solstice Choir nominated for award < DAN DOONER

As if achieving nationwide stardom on RTE One wasn’t enough, Roscommon Solstice Choir has been nominated for the People’s Choice Award at the EPIC Awards 2017! The EPIC Awards, which receive nominations from right across Britain and Ireland have been in existence since 2010 and were established by Voluntary Arts who aim to promote opportunities for creative participation. Voluntary Arts works with local creative cultural groups, voluntary sector organisations, arts councils and local and national government to help increase opportunities for creative participation and to support those who have already discovered the benefits of

Sunday 19th February:

Patricia Lane with Anthony McDermott - 6pm in Middle Bar

* 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! The Roscommon Solstice Choir appeared on the Sunday Mass Service on RTE television last weekend and has recently been nominated for a People’s Choice Award at the EPIC Awards 2017. Pic: Roscommon Solstice Choir Facebook

taking part This nomination follows what was a very busy and successful year for the Solstice Choir as the group raised almost €40,000 for charity and community

causes across Roscommon in 2016. The Roscommon Solstice Choir need your help to win the award, however, as members of the public are invited to vote. Voting

is easy, simply go to www. voluntaryarts.org/epicawards-people’s-choicevoting and select Roscommon Solstice Choir as your choice, enter your email and complete the simple

question and then vote. The choir is very proud to be nominated and is now asking everyone in Roscommon, families, friends and fans to help them win this prestigious award.

JJ Harlows supporting Irish Micro Breweries

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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

Elphin to host weekend of traditional music

The Dr. John Stafford Festival will take place in Elphin this Saturday and Sunday (18th and 19th). This promises to be a weekend of traditional Irish Music and Gaeilge and will be hosted by Elphin CCE who have hosted an array of successful and enjoyable Fleadhs over the past three years. The committee devised the idea of a festival in honour of a patron of the

arts from years gone by. Dr. Stafford hailed from Portobello, Elphin and tended to Turlough O’Carolan, the great harpist and composer when he hit a low and dark stage of his life. O’Carolan was depressed and neglected himself and his harp and Dr. Stafford took the talented harpist under his wing and rescued him from the darkness

while reviving his love for composition and music. O’Carolan composed a tune in Stafford’s honour as recognition for his help. The tune called ‘Dr. Stafford’ or ‘O’Carolan’s Receipt for Drinking’ is widely known as one of his greats. This weekend’s festival promises to be a hive of activity with sessions, workshops, a Feis and a new

flute competition called Fluiteadoir Ros Comain. The new flute competition is proving to be extremely popular as the flute is synonymous with Roscommon due to some of the great players who have hailed from these parts. Elphin CCE would like to invite lovers of music and culture to join them in Elphin for what promises to be a great weekend.

Elphin, County Roscommon 17th - 19th February 2017 A weekend of Traditional Irish Music

Dr. John Stafford Festival Introducing inaugural

FLIÚITEADÓIRÍ ROS COMÁIN U18 & O18 Flute Competition

Workshops Saturday 18th Button Accordian: Vinny Murphy, Wexford, All Ireland Champion 2016 Fiddle: Jason McGuiness, Sligo 2016 Fiddler of Dooney Flute and Whistle: Cein Sweeney, Cavan, All Ireland Champion 2015 Comhra Gaeilge: Jacinta Ni Chonghaile, Ros a mhil, Co. Na.Gaillmhe Registration 10.30am Elphin Community College

Music Feis Sunday 19th

Pictured at ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ in The Hub, Castlerea on Friday night last were Alisha McElhone, Tom Flynn, Julie Sell and Joe McElhone. Picture: Andrew Fox

Tin whistle, Fiddle, Button Accordion, Flute & Concertina - U10, U12, U15 Registration 10.30am Elphin Community College

Session Trail Friday - Sunday All musicians welcome Contact Aidan 086 0526459 or John 086 3868271 Email: johnstaffordtrad@gmail.com The Dr John Stafford Festival

‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ in The Hub, Castlerea Pictures: Andrew Fox

@elphinc

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were Enda O’Rourke and Leonie Beirne.

Damien Comer pictured making a presentation to Martina Hegarty, Roscommon People at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance.

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were James McKeague, Cathy O’Rourke and Damien Comer.

Faces & Places Creggs GAA Dinner Dance Pics: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were Gerry Keegan, Maria Conway, Eugene Fleming and Eamon Kelly.

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were Alice Kelly and Kieran Dowd.

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were Seán Dermody and Darina Gunning.

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were Jack Hanley, Damien Comer and Eoin Dowd.

Brian Carroll, Roscommon County Board Secretary, pictured presenting the Creggs GAA Club Young Player of the Year Award to Shane Dowd.

Brian Carroll, Roscommon County Board Secretary pictured presenting the Creggs GAA Club Senior Player of the Year Award to James McKeague.

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were Tara Brandon and Ray Fallon.

Damien Comer pictured making a presentation to Pauline Scott at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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

Faces & Places Creggs GAA Dinner Dance Pics: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were John Keegan, Matthew Brandon, Kieran Dowd and Noel Gately.

Brian Carroll, Roscommon County Board Secretary, pictured presenting the Creggs GAA Club Person of the Year Award to Jonathan Conroy.

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were Kevin McStay and Seamus Keane.

Pictured at the Creggs GAA Dinner Dance were Seamus Ward, Gerry Keegan, Fr. Larry Ebuk, Damien Comer and Oliver King.

Pictured in the Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday night last were Mairéad and John Reilly. Picture: Andrew Fox Pictured in the Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday night last were Eunan and Deborah Condron. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in the Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday night last were Tommy and Bridgie Quirke. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon Arts Centre

Pictured in the Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday night last were Enda and Avril Healy. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in the Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday night last were Ann and John Reilly. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured in the Roscommon Arts Centre on Saturday night last were Fiona Dunne and Sandra Brandon. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

Celebrating First Holy Communion and Conﬁrmation

Creative Conﬁrmation gift ideas that won’t break the bank < MIRIAM KERINS

s Confirmation is the third religious childhood ritual/sacrament for Catholic boys and girls with most children being confirmed at age 12, meaning they’re on the cusp of teenhood, it’s worth bearing in mind that perhaps the likes of a miraculous medal, a prayer book/bible or any other religious artefact, though dear to your own heart, may not prove too thrilling for the young recipient. However, if you’re someone who feels it’s absolutely necessary to mark this momentous occasion with a religious sentiment, then why not present the celebrant with a bookmark containing an inspirational quote or a piece of jewellery with a cultural significance that signifies that unique turning point from childhood to adolescence. They’ll appreciate the thought,

Molloy’s Bakery Communion and Confirmation Time – for all your Let us take the stress and hard work out of your Holy Communion and Confirmation celebrations to allow you to party needs! spend time with your families and cherish this important day.

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Communion and Confirmation season is starting early this year and soon weekends will be taken up with parties to celebrate these momentous occasions. As a family run business, Molloy’s Bakery knows that these are special days in your children’s lives and a great reason for family and friends to get together to celebrate. We provide bespoke catering packages to suit your needs and budget. In recent years we have seen an increase in parties at home due to the mixture of age groups and tastes. We understand that it’s a busy and sometimes stressful day so we want to take some of that stress away from you so you can enjoy the day with your family and friends and not spend it in the kitchen! We supply everything from buffet sandwiches made with our award winning breads to fresh cream desserts, bite size pastries and cheesecakes and of course Communion and Confirmation Cakes. We also offer a selection of gluten free breads and cakes so nobody is left out. Contact Molloy’s Bakery today to discuss your requirements on 090-6625940 or call into us in Abbeytown.

meaning your gift is likely to last more than just the day that’s in it. If the child is a bookworm, a music lover or a major moviegoer, then your solution is simple; a book token, or a cinema or music voucher will go down a treat. Then again, most 12-year-olds have mobile ‘phones, so why not pop some credit into a card for them…they’ll love you forever. As all kids compare how much they ‘made’ in class on Monday (yes they do…), sure they’re loaded the little darlings, we’d imagine there’s not a 12year-old across Roscommon who’d be disappointed with a few bob tucked nicely into their card. For something a bit different, a gift of a lovely frame will not only be useful for the celebrant to display

their confirmation photo, it’ll be something they can put on display and keep forever. Is the Confirmation teen an outdoor-sy type? If so, what about a voucher for the local adventure park, perhaps a day canoeing, or a day rock climbing, any of which would be appreciated? Is this teen an animal lover? Why not get them a few professional horse riding lessons or book them a place on a daylong workshop at a local summer camp where they can do a bit horse riding and a bit of archery. If they’re the sporty type, perhaps they’d enjoy a ticket to see their favourite local team playing or maybe a coveted Roscommon County GAA or hurling jersey would go down a treat.

Alice Ann Bridal

We oﬀer a range of wedding gowns to suit all. Holy Communion dresses Beautiful designs something to suit all. Deposits taken, terms and conditions apply Look forward to seeing you all

You can contact us on 043-33-36608 for us to help you choose a beautiful gown for your special day. OPENING HOURS: Monday & Tuesday: 10.30am - 5.00pm Closed Wednesday Thursday-Saturday: 10.30am - 5.00pm

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

Celebrating First Holy Communion and Conﬁrmation

WHOSE DAY IS IT ANYWAY? < MIRIAM KERINS

hile throwing a big fat fam-

ily party for your child’s main event, whether it’s a First Holy Communion or a Confirmation, may seem like a great idea, the stress around the planning of it all, along with the cost, can leave you feeling not only deflated, it can also render a gaping big hole in your bank balance. In addition, do you really want those difficultto-please, judgemental in-laws descending on your home, having too much to drink and staying the entire weekend, meaning you’ll have to wash and dust every single little nook and cranny in order to avoid criticism? So, if you want to celebrate your child’s special day but don’t want the added stress, why not take our suggestions on board. It is their day so do ask your child how they’d like to celebrate the occasion. Rather than having a house

party, they may just want to go to a local funfair or theme park, or go to the movies, followed by a pizza, etc. Remember, it’s about building memories; that means it’s not about you or about showcasing how much cash you’ve got to splash… it’s about the child and what they want. If your child decides they do want a big family party, then it’s time to think about the cost and the clean-up operation. Personally, with the array of fabulous eateries and facilities on offer across the county, as a person who doesn’t like a mess, I’d ring round this weekend and find out who is doing the best deals on dining out; their menu range, their availability and if they’re offering any extras like an early bird special, a group discount or a discount/free meal for the First Communion/Confirmation child. In addition, if you’ve got small babies, and you’ve just managed to get them into a sleeping routine, now is the time to book that sought-after babysitter

because, very often, for a small infant, staying at home and enjoying the comforts of their uninterrupted feeds and their own cot is preferable to disrupting their routine…and it doesn’t take the focus off the Communion/Confirmation child. If you’ve got a nana who just loves to muck in and organise everyone, then, if she offers, why not allow her to share the burden. Let Nana make the guest list because she’s the one, who, depending on the size of the family, will be able to whittle down a reasonable and manageable guest cut-off. She will also be able to have a quiet, diplomatic word in the ear of any awkward aunties/uncles/cousins who may be likely to step out of line on your child’s big day. However, awkward relations shouldn’t necessarily be excluded because all kiddies do have a right to a relationship with their family, especially if they are grandparents or estranged parents.

Budgeting for their special day Remember the most important part of any budget is planning. Always ask the important question: How much can I afford to spend? Don’t just go out and buy a pony and a castle for your little darling, figure out how far your funds can realistically go. Trying to compete with others is certainly not what the Sacrament of Holy Communion is about anyway! The next question is also important: How much do I want to spend? Take into account the dress/suit, veil, rosette, bow tie and shoes. The next step is planning what happens after the ceremony. Is it back to a venue or back to your own home? How many people are invited? There are of course cheap and cheerful solutions to this and joint communion parties are becoming more popular so check it out with the parents of your child’s friends. Budgets should be designed for constant revision, so don’t be afraid to go back over yours closer to the time. Certainly don’t be afraid to readjust to suit either. Children and other family members only expect what they are led to expect, so manage expectations! And don’t forget that being in good company is the best part of these special occasions.

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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Rents to rise by 1% locally Prime office and retail rents in Dublin are expected to rise by 7% and 8% respectively in 2017, while residential development land values in the capital are expected to rise by 15% according to a new commercial property survey by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland. Surveyors expect prime office rents in the rest of the country to increase by around 4% while retail rents are expected to increase by 8% in Leinster (excluding Dublin), by 5% in Connacht/Ulster but just by 1% in Munster. Overall the commercial property sector performed strongly in 2016 with growth recorded across all sectors, although the rate of growth was more moderate than that recorded in 2015. Over 380 estate agents and Chartered Surveyors from all over the country took part in the survey while Future Analytics Consulting was commissioned by the SCSI to carry out the research.

Call on employers to support National Workplace Wellbeing Day Employers in Roscommon are being urged to sign up for Ireland’s third National Workplace Wellbeing Day on Friday, 31st of March. Last year over 300 companies of all sizes from across the public and private sectors participated in the annual event, which aims to improve employee wellbeing through promoting better exercise and nutrition in the workplace. New research shows that only a quarter of workers in Ireland (26%) take the recommended level of exercise for a healthy lifestyle each week. Marcella Corcoran Kennedy T.D., Minister for State for Health Promotion, launched this year’s campaign, which is an initiative of Food and Drink Industry Ireland (FDII), and is supported by Ibec. Danny McCoy, CEO, Ibec said: “As a nation, we all know that we need to get healthier. There is no better place to start than in the workplace, where we spend so much of our time. Research amongst employees in Ireland

Picture shows from left, Danny McCoy CEO, Ibec; Minister for State for Health Promotion, Marcella Corcoran Kennedy T.D., and Anne Heraty, President of Ibec and CEO, CPL Limited as employers are being urged to sign up for Ireland’s third National Workplace Wellbeing Day on Friday, 31st March 2017. Supported by Ibec, the initiative aims to improve employee wellbeing through promoting better exercise and nutrition in the workplace. Pic: Naoise Culhane

shows that the majority are more likely to stay longer with employers who show an interest in their health and wellbeing.” He added: “We’re encouraging companies across the length and breadth of the country

to mark Friday, 31st of March with some healthy and fun workplace initiatives. “No matter how big or small the event, a fitness class, a cookery demo, or a health check for example, the important thing

is that it gets employees thinking about their health. The more adventurous can tackle the ‘Lunchtime Mile’ where staff run, jog or cycle one mile in the vicinity of the workplace. Here in Ibec we’re hosting a healthy breakfast and

walking the Lunchtime Mile, which promises to be a fun day for all involved.” Further details of how companies can get involved in this year’s event are available at www.fdii. ie/wellbeing.

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Business membership organisation, Guaranteed Irish is calling on the individuals and businesses in Roscommon to get involved in their Guaranteed Irish ‘Hero’ Awards which recognise the work of people who have been ambassadors for Ireland both at home and abroad. People are invited to nominate their heroes in the areas of sport, science, music, technology and food through the Guaranteed Irish website or by using #GIhero on Twitter. The official launch of the awards took place today where Artist Maser received the first of six ‘Hero’ Awards for his contributions to contemporary Irish art. The award ceremony took place at his new mural on The Tara Building; a multi display space, for creatives and start-ups on Tara Street, Dublin 2. CEO of Guaranteed Irish, Brid O’Connell said: “I

am absolutely delighted to launch the Guaranteed Irish ‘Hero’ Awards and give recognition to those who have been advocates for Ireland both at home and abroad. Maser is a true ambassador for Ireland and for contemporary Irish art, so it is with great pleasure that we name him as the very first Guaranteed Irish Hero today. “Throughout 2017 we will be championing six exceptional individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to creating a better Ireland through: jobs, community and provenance, across six categories: art, sport, science, music, technology and food.” The remaining Guaranteed Irish Heroes will be awarded throughout 2017, following a public nominations process. Members of the public are being asked to nominate individuals across the following categories: sport, science,

Pictured at the launch of the Guaranteed Irish ‘Hero’ Awards were CEO of Guaranteed Irish, Brid O’Connell, and artist Maser, who received the first of six ‘Hero’ awards for his contributions to contemporary art. Pic: Mark Stedman.

music, technology and food. An outside panel of experts in each field will review a shortlist and decide the Guaranteed Irish Hero for that category. The next Guaranteed Irish Hero will be awarded in March for their contributions to sport, with the remaining Heroes to be announced every two months following: science in May,

music in July, technology in September and food in November. To get involved and to nominate your Guaranteed Irish Hero, simply log on to: http://www.guaranteedirish.ie/how-to-nominate-your-hero/ or you can nominate and follow the campaign across social media with the dedicated hashtag: #GIhero

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

YOURMON€Y

Taking care of debt < MIRIAM KERINS

t’s a scenario many of us have encountered

all too often; we borrow money and then all of a sudden our circumstances change and we find we’re saddled and struggling with a massive debt hanging over our heads. Look, borrowing money is all part of day-to-day life, we’ve all done it. Whether it’s for a mortgage, a house extension, a car, a holiday or the kids’ college fees, etc. However, what happens when we get in over our heads and can see no way out? First of all, there’s always a solution and there’s always help available…we just need to make a game plan and stick to it. Here are some guidelines; we hope they help. Mortgage arrears: Act as a matter of urgency because your home is at risk. Contact your lender, who is likely to have a specific person on staff to deal with such situations. Remember, you’re not the only one who has fallen behind on their mortgage. Discuss your options with them and put in place a sustainable plan of action and try stick to it. In addition, contact MABS (Money Advice and Budgeting Service). They’re an independent, non-judgemental, confidential, free service for people who find themselves in arrears. Log onto www. mabs.ie for more information. Do you have a mortgage repayment protection insurance policy in place? If so, dig it out and see if it covers your repayments for a specific amount of time. Car loan: If you purchased your car with a personal loan then you are the owner of the car meaning it’s unlikely to be repossessed. Speak to your lender, explain what has happened and request a loan restructure that’s more in line with your ability to meet the

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McGOWAN ACCOUNTANCY SERVICES repayments. There may be extras attached to this arrangement such as interest or fees, so be aware of this. In addition, you could think about selling the car and paying off part of the loan with the proceeds, however, this is not always an option for those living in rural areas who can’t avail of public transport to get them to work. If you’ve got a Hire Purchase Agreement, the car’s not yours ‘till you’ve made the final repayment I’m afraid. However, there may be the option for you to sell the car and use the proceeds to pay off the balance. There is also such a thing as ‘voluntary surrender,’ whereby you can volunteer to return the car to the finance provider but you still must pay the balance that you owe. The finance provider sells the car and the proceeds go towards your

debt to them but you must make repayments until the entire debt is cleared. Handing back the car doesn’t automatically clear the debt. Credit card: Stop using it ASAP! Contact your provider and request they consider reducing the interest rate on your card and pay off as much as you can comfortably afford each month. Remember, it’s important not to miss a monthly repayment or even make a late repayment because you could be charged a late payment fee, which can vary depending on your provider. In addition this information can also appear on your personal credit history. The above are simply guidelines. If you require formal information/advice contact www.mabs.ie, or www.citizensinformation. ie today.

Filling in the all-important loan application < MIRIAM KERINS

You’ve spent years living in hovels with water running down the walls and mushrooms growing up through the floorboards and now, at last, you’re ready to get your foot firmly on the property ladder…well done. However, as first time buyers are facing a plethora of challenges when purchasing their new home, we’ve put together some practical advice regarding filling in that allimportant application form. The paperwork It’s always good to get ‘loan approval in principle’ in order to know exactly how much it is you can borrow. Therefore, before you contact any lenders; this is

what you’ll need. Proof of your home address – this means a current household bill in your own name. Proof of identity – this means a valid passport or driver’s licence. Proof of your income – this means an up to date P60 and three recent pay slips – all of which you’ll get from your employer. Also, bank statements and/or any loan account statements for the previous year. When the lender is considering your application, this is what they’ll base their decision on… Your annual income: Some lenders will take overtime and bonuses into account and, if you’re planning to rent out rooms in the property, some may even take that rental income into account.

Are you borrowing on your own or are you borrowing with someone else? Outgoings: Lenders will want to know you can live a sustainable life outside of your mortgage repayments so they’ll look at any other financial commitments you may have. For example, do you have any childcare costs, etc. Current loans: Any outstanding loans you have may reduce the amount you can borrow, so perhaps it may be best to try and clear these off first. Credit history: Have you kept up repayments on previous loans or have you missed some in the past? If you have missed some it may make getting a mortgage more difficult. Age: How many years do you have left before you retire from the workforce? Savings: Showing that you have the ability to save will go in your favour, especially if you’ve saved a substantial deposit on your new property and have managed to save for other expenses. Market value of the property: How much will you need to borrow and how much of a deposit are you putting down. Guarantor: Is there someone who will stand in and agree to repay the loan in the unlikely event you are unable to do so?

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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Providing Devine inspiration among the Kenyan tribes < DAN DOONER

he time was 2 o’clock last Thursday afternoon when the phone in the office rang. “Dan, it’s a Fr. Devine calling from Kenya?” Not the usual Thursday afternoon phone call then! But then again, Fr. Padraig Devine’s career has been fairly unusual itself. Hailing from Frenchpark, he is the founder and international chair of the Shalom Centre for conflict resolution and reconciliation in East Africa. Based in Nairobi, his work takes him into the Kenyan countryside, which is inhabited by some of the 42 tribes that call it home. The line was poor and I could just about make out what he was saying initially. “Hi Dan, I’m just back from the bush.” Nowadays, ‘the bush’ is a place where Kenyan tribes live and coexist, mainly thanks to the hard work of men like Fr. Devine. It hasn’t always been this way as centuries-old conflicts over live-

Mandela. The announcement came as quite a shock to Padraig. “I was very surprised that the people were aware of the work we are doing along the border. Somebody had said to me that my name was mentioned for an award in Ireland. I found out about it then on the web. “The nominations were made last January but I didn’t know. Unless someone heard about the award in 2013,” he said. The priest won the International Caring award in 2013 and believes that this highlighted the ongoing work Shalom does in Kenya. He added that he hopes the nomination for the Tipperary Peace Prize has the same effect. Speaking to Fr. Devine, it quickly became clear just why groups had him in mind when it came to international awards. He detailed the process involved in creating and maintaining peace in the country’s most hostile areas. “We work by training local community leaders in conflict resolution and by teaching them how

Clifden walk in aid of Shalom A fundraising walk in aid of Shalom Centre for conflict resolution and reconciliation will take place along the Sky Road in Clifden at 2 pm on Saturday, March 18th. The walk comprises of 15km along one of the most beautiful routes in the West of Ireland with proceeds going towards the continued good work of Fr. Padraig Devine and the Shalom centre in Kenya. Fr. Padraig will travel from Kenya to take part in the walk on the day. The monies raised will assist in meeting the dire needs of the people in these environments who have been mostly left to fend for themselves. Of every euro given, 93 cents goes directly into the project and the return is making life revolutionarily better for children, families and communities who can stay in their homelands and live life better day by day. All are welcome to come and support the Clifden walk on March 18th and raise vital funds for Fr. Padraig Devine and Shalom. stock and land have been waged in a country with deep ethnic divides. The reason for the inter-continental call was the announcement recently that Fr. Devine was nominated for the Tipperary Peace Prize. The award has been presented to the great and the good down through the years and previous winners include Nelson

to take ownership of inter-ethnic conflicts. Conflict memory is very resilient and a big part of it. We have a highly qualified team and research is carried out to find out what were the root causes of the conflict,” he said. Fr. Devine said research and analysis was extremely important in order to get to the initial causes of conflicts. As the reconciliation

process has moved forward, things have improved and many of the local people are now open to interethnic education and trading. When they realised the process was working, tribes began to cooperate with each other and now two of them share a market while others are educated together at some of the 120 inter-ethnic schools Shalom has either built or expanded. Roads have also reopened in the region as the fear of conflict has reduced. Most of this work is funded by private donors in Ireland and by the Irish Government’s overseas development wing, Irish Aid. While international aid and support is crucial, Fr. Devine wants the local people to become “architects of their own future” and has continued with his own education in his quest to help them. He and his staff have trained extensively in conflict resolution and he has also completed a PhD in philosophy and political science. His thesis, which dealt with the persistence of conflict between two tribes, was the first seminal work on the topic. However, the Shalom founder realises that all of this positive work is only possible with the help of many people, both in Kenya and back home. He said: “The people of Roscommon and politicians from all parties have been a great help over the years.” Fr. Devine went on to mention a number of people including Overseas Development Minister Joe McHugh and Roscommon GAA manager Kevin McStay as well as local activists such as Emmett Corcoran and praised local groups and community activists for their work in supporting Shalom’s efforts in Kenya. Paraphrasing Edward Burke, he said: “All that’s needed for evil to prosper is for good men to do nothing.” There doesn’t seem to be any sign of inactivity among the supporters of Shalom with fundraisers planning events such as the Clifden Walk on March 18th. Fr. Devine also said that the Roscommon Solstice Choir had been in contact regarding a concert. It seems that the Frenchpark native and his staff as well as the people of Roscommon will continue to work to help the tribes of Kenya as they look to a future of peace and prosperity.

Frenchpark native and Shalom founder, Fr. Padraig Devine, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Tipperary Peace Prize for his work in Kenya.

Frenchpark priest up for Tipperary Peace Prize < DAN DOONER

renchpark native, Fr. Padraig

Devine, has been nominated for the prestigious Tipperary Peace Prize due to his dedicated work with tribes in Kenya. The founder and international

chair of the Shalom Centre for conflict resolution and reconciliation in East Africa is based in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi. Fr. Devine is a member of the Society of African Missions and has spent the last 25 years helping to end conflict and poverty among Af-

rican tribes. The Roscommon man will join former Northern Ireland deputy first minister Martin McGuinness; Amnesty Ireland; the Syrian White Helmets rescue workers, Lebanese activist, Lady Rabab al Sadr and Lebanese-British lawyer, activist

and author, Amal Clooney on this year’s shortlist. Previous winners of the Tipperary Peace Prize include Senator John Kerry, UN General Secretary Ban Ki Moon, Malala Yousafzai, a young Pakistani activist who went on to win the Nobel Peace Prize,

and former South African President Nelson Mandela. The award recipient will be announced in the coming weeks and will be presented with the International Peace Award in Tipperary on a date to be confirmed in 2017.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

NewsPeople

Pictured at the launch of Summer of ’63 in Castlecoote Lodge on Friday night last were Patricia Coyle, Brian Leyden and Brigeen Fitzmaurice. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the launch of Summer of ’63 in Castlecoote Lodge on Friday night last were Noreen Reynolds, Brian Leyden, Margaret Leyden, Cllr. Orla Leyden, Senator Terry Leyden and Josephine Leyden. Picture: Andrew Fox

Castlecoote ﬁction fans warmed by ‘Summer of ‘63’ < DAN DOONER

here was an impressive turnout for the launch of Arigna author, Brian Leyden’s latest book which was held in Castlecoote Lodge last Friday evening. Those in attendance were treated to a reading from the novel, titled ‘Summer of ‘63’, while footage shot by Senator Terry Leyden of that summer was played on the TV in the replica Dáil Bar. Brian Leyden’s latest novel tells the story of Leo Rossiter, an asthmatic teenager in the grip of first love during a summer which featured visits from John F. Kennedy and The Beatles. The book is a nostalgic trip back to 1960s Ireland with plenty of humour and the thrilling pursuit of a killer thrown into the mix. Brian is an award-winning author and his other works include Departures,

Sweet Old World and The Home Place. Introducing Brian to a warm welcome, Senator Terry Leyden, who counts the author as a cousin, described him as “a very talented writer” before recounting some of the memories he had of Brian’s family and his own summer of 1963. Brian thanked those in attendance for coming and later said: “We need to collect up what people say and think, and their wit. If we don’t gather it up it will be lost forever.” Brian described this as a motivating factor in his own writing career. He then read passages from ‘Summer of ‘63’ to the very attentive audience. Speaking to Brian during the evening, he described the enjoyment he experienced in travelling with new books. He said: “It’s great to get out on the road and meet your readers and to read

to them. It’s not enough to have the book written, you have to have an audience in mind. They’ll tell you if it’s any good!” (Laughs). Brian described the difficulties that come with being a full-time writer but also the opportunities to give something back to fellow writers, saying that he had hosted creative writing workshops and lectured on the subject. He said: “It’s a very hard slog. It’s like being a musician nowadays where you have to go out and perform for your audience and sell the merchandise. But, as another writer from not too far from here, John McGahern, once said: ‘Nobody asked you to do it!’ “You’re very grateful when you do get a crowd to turn out like this and working with a group like Lepus Print is also very helpful. I’m also a big supporter of familyowned and independent

bookshops – they really promote local writers.” Brian has worked in the reading room in Carrickon-Shannon and described the “nurturing” he and other writers receive from such venues. He is fully aware that shelf life is short for a new book and that writers are under pressure to keep producing, to keep writing. He welcomes touring and nights like last Friday and describes it as “going back to the coffee shops and boutique readings.” As we spoke, his book proved popular with his audience and it wasn’t long before those that had been on the table beside us had been purchased with Brian in increasing demand as he signed each one. He did, however, leave me with some words of wisdom, “from one writer to another,” he said. “The trick is not just to write…but to keep writing!”

Pictured at the launch of Summer of ’63 in Castlecoote Lodge on Friday night last were Maura Moran, Brian Leyden and Agnes Murray. Picture: Andrew Fox

Pictured at the launch of Summer of ’63 in Castlecoote Lodge on Friday night last were Brian and Senator Terry Leyden. Picture: Andrew Fox

How Terry Leyden almost shot JFK in ‘63 < DAN DOONER

Pictured at the launch of Summer of ’63 in Castlecoote Lodge on Friday night last were Jimmy Leyden, Laura Leyden, Jean Leyden and Brian Leyden. Picture: Andrew Fox

he one thing I have

come to expect when I meet Senator Terry Leyden, is a story about…Terry Leyden. I don’t remember the man in his ministerial prime; indeed I was just four years of age the last time he was elected to Dáil Éireann. However, I have come to know him over the last few months, and while PR departments probably weren’t the norm back then, Terry gives me the feeling that they would have been left twiddling their thumbs anyway. The man is omnipotent. Last Friday night I was

barely in the door at Castlecoote Lodge when he clocked me…in a friendly way of course…I’ve always found him to be a gracious host. This may have been Brian Leyden’s book launch, but it was partly the Terry Leyden show too as he directed newcomers’ attention to the TV behind the bar. “I filmed that in the summer of 1963,” he informed us. “Those lads are on their way to Ferbane,” he said as young men clambered aboard what looked like a Honda 50. Later on, the Senator told those present of JFK’s visit to Ireland and how a young Terry attempted to catch

him on film. “Just as John F. Kennedy arrived, my camera froze,” said Terry, as he explained the lack of footage of the iconic US President. Later still, author Brian Leyden stole the show as he lamented the fact that Terry wasn’t the shooter on the grassy knoll in Dallas later that year. For, surely had Terry been the shooter, Brian surmised, his gun would have jammed and the popular President wouldn’t have been harmed! Unfortunately for humanity and the President’s many admirers in this country, however, it was only Terry Leyden’s camera that jammed in 1963.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

NewsPeople SUNDAY GOSPEL REFLECTION We are called to the holiness of God. That is the extraordinary claim made in both the First Reading and Gospel this Sunday. Yet how is it possible that we can be perfect as our Father in heaven is perfect? Jesus explains that we must be imitators of God as his beloved children (Eph. 5:1–2). As God does, we must love without limit – with a love that does not distinguish between friend and foe, overcoming evil with good (see Rom. 12:21). Jesus himself, in his Passion and death, gave us the perfect example of the love that we are called to. He offered no resistance to the evil – even though he could have commanded twelve legions of angels to fight alongside him. He offered his face to be struck and spit upon. He allowed his garments to be stripped from him. He marched as his enemies compelled him to the Place of the Skull. On the cross he prayed for those who persecuted him (see Matt. 26:53–54, 67; 27:28, 32; Luke 23:34). In all this he showed himself to be the perfect Son of God. By his grace, and through our imitation of him, he promises that we too can become children of our heavenly Father. God does not deal with us as we deserve, as we sing in this week’s Psalm. He loves us with a Father’s love. He saves us from ruin. He forgives our transgressions. He loved us even when we had made ourselves his enemies through our sinfulness. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (see Rom. 5:8). We have been bought with the price of the blood of God’s only Son (see 1 Cor. 6:20). We belong to Christ now, as St. Paul says in this week’s Epistle. By our baptism, we have been made temples of his Holy Spirit. And we have been saved to share in his holiness and perfection. So let us glorify him by our lives lived in his service, loving as he loves.

FRANKLY SPEAKING It could happen to a Bishop (it just did) FRANK BRANDON’S UNIQUE TAKE ON LIFE ...

s the reigning champion jiver (Gannon’s 2014), and old-time waltzer (Kilbegnet Hall 2015) of the Creggs Harvest Festival, I have been very interested in the RTE production of Dancing with the Stars. So far I have found it to be fairly enjoyable, and even entertaining. One of the very obvious benefits of the show has been the serious loss of weight by a number of the contestants and so, at work one day last week, I put on a Declan Nerney tape, and strutted my stuff around the shop floor for a little while – and I have to confess that it was quite strenuous. It is most certainly very hard physical work, and

as they practice for twelve hours a week, every week, it’s no wonder that so many of the ladies in particular have shed so many pounds (sorry, that should be kilos). However, back to the show itself, and I confess that I was delighted to see Des Bishop get the boot and even more delighted to read on today’s papers that he isn’t very happy about it. Now I have nothing against the American comedian – apart from the fact that I don’t find him funny – but I thought he was arrogant, self-opinionated, and almost rude on the show and he obviously didn’t buy into the spirit of the whole thing. There is no doubt that he was a much better dancer than the other Des, RTE sports presenter Des Cahill,

and if that was the only requirement he would be perfectly right to be upset at his elimination. However, all these shows are based on more than just technical ability; popularity is also important, and all of the other contestants are apparently more popular with the viewers and voters than our Des. Maybe he should eat humble pie, shut up, and just carry on with the comedy. Of the rest that are left the other Des (Cahill) is probably going to win, and if he does he will be about as deserving as I was of my two titles – I was the sole judge in both instances, there were no other participants, and it was a unanimous decision. Des Cahill is about as good a dancer as I am, so he would definitely be a worthy winner.

Cold comfort for Rossies

– Scott Hahn Ph.D., www.salvationhistory.com (and courtesy of Sacred Heart Church)

THE BRIDGE CLUB Roscommon Bridge Club North/South – 1st: M. Shannon & N. Murtagh, 2nd: K. Blighe & N. McDonagh, 3rd: A. Rafferty & V. McManus. East/West – 1st: K. Dowd & P. O’Shaughnessy, 2nd: L. Curley & M. Molloy, 3rd: M. Egan & O. Fahy. Happy ‘71 Bridge Club 1st: K. Dowd & C. McGrath, 2nd: T. & M. O’Keeffe, Gross: T. Smyth & L. Shine. St. Coman’s Bridge Club North/South – 1st: K. Corcoran & K. Gately, 2nd: M. Coyle & E. Moran, 3rd: M. Fallon & G. Hoban. East/West – 1st: N. Costello & C. McGrath, 2nd: A. Kilduff & M. McDermott, 3rd: V. Clarke & K. Jones. Ballymurray Bridge Club Section A North/South – 1sT: F. Neilan & K. Blighe, 2nd: J. Devaney & G. Spillane, 3rd: J. Hunt & A. Gaffney. East/West – 1st: M. & S. Gregory, 2nd: P. Whyte & M. Byrne, 3rd: K. Gately & M. Naughton. Section B North/ South – 1st: K. Corcoran & A. Shine, 2nd: M. McDermott & K. Jones, 3rd: H. Lynn & G. Relihan. East/West – 1st: S. Melia & J. McGrath, 2nd: K. Coyle & M. Dolan, 3rd: R. McDermott & B. Jones. Kilbride Bridge Club North/South – 1st: C. Neilan & M. Regan, 2nd: J. Hunt & A. Gaffney, 3rd: M. Mullen & M. Fallon. East/West – 1st: G. McDermott & A. Igoe, 2nd: T. & B. Moran, 3rd: K. Burke & M. Kelly.

Why I didn’t fall in love with Late Late Valentine’s special To matters of comedy and television, and although not being his greatest fan, normally I would be fairly positive about Ryan Tubridy and I would watch the Late Late Show while waiting for the Graham Norton Show. That reminds me of the story about the late Paddy Hardiman, who – having got and eaten a mother and father of a dinner from my late mother-in-law Baba Kelly – he told her in a matter of fact way, thanks very much, it would keep him going till he had his own dinner later at home. And so, to last Friday night’s show and while I know hundreds of thousands of people around the country may have enjoyed it, I can only say that I

thought it was a load of muck and was so far removed from comedy that, just like Paddy Hardiman, I couldn’t wait for my real dinner – which was of course served up by the excellent Cork man, Norton. I suppose it’s easy to put out a good show when you have guests like Denzel Washington, Whoopee Goldberg, and Jamie Dornan, all A-listers. But the host is absolutely brilliant at gelling the whole show together and getting the best out of stars who can occasionally be a bit too much in love with themselves. Anyway, if I am still in the land of the living next Valentine’s weekend I most definitely won’t be watching the Late Late Show.

An ever-changing world! I’m heading off to work on Saturday morning in the still trusty old Almera, which has changed shape ever so slightly over the Christmas after mysteriously taking off in the middle of the night and reversing itself into a tree in the garden. Thankfully the tree stopped its gallop and apart from a taillight that has seen better days and a dint or two on the back, you wouldn’t know anything happened at all. Anyway off I go on the road which, being Saturday, is strangely deserted and is pretty slippy after a hard night’s frost. But what grabs my attention the most is the sun. Yes, it’s only the beginning of February and at that early hour the sun is so blinding it’s nearly dangerous to drive and it makes me wonder about all the talk there is about the ozone layer and global warming and I realise that whatever the causes are, our weather is definitely changing and the seasons are no longer so easily defined.

Another example is the fact that for the second year in a row, the daffodils are out for a while in places and even though we still like to give out about the weather, the truth is we have had hardly any rain since the month of October. But I suppose it’s an ever-changing world that we live in and we simply have to move with the times and on Sunday, as I listened to the Gospel according to Matthew at Mass in Kilbegnet Church, amongst other ridiculous and outdated things said was ‘and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery’! I realised how far the much-maligned Catholic Church has moved on over the last number of years. Thankfully there is a more enlightened view taken on a lot of matters nowadays, although why there is no move on having women priests is still baffling to me. As male vocations get less and less, surely the day will come that some of our ladies will be ordained.

On now to sporting matters, and I had half considered going to the Hyde on Sunday until I stuck my head outside the door and until Noel Hanley said to me outside Mass that you would get pneumonia in the stand. And so I watched the deferred highlights on the telly and it was a game I really enjoyed, and one that the Rossies should have won. They have not had any luck at all in their two games so far, but from what I’ve seen, they are coming on quite well and are still capable of keeping their place in the top tier. As for the Noel Hanley prediction, I heard Joe Finnegan confirming on his show this morning that it was absolutely perishing in the stand and would do what we have always been told it would, to a brass monkey. Joe didn’t say that – that was me.

All the best to Martina… Finally, back to the times we live in and of all the changes that came my way, one of the biggest was brought about by Martina here in the People, when she cajoled, persuaded, and pleaded with me to send this piece in by email. After years she succeeded, and for the last few months, each week I have electronically forwarded my thoughts in the new way, and for Martina it was, while not a delight, a good deal easier than it had been for the last number of years when my bad handwriting, bad spelling, and terrible grammar almost drove her to distraction. And so just when I thought I had it all sorted, along comes the news that Martina is leaving this week, to take up a post with the HSE in Galway, and I for one will miss her greatly. She was a huge help to me, put up with an awful lot of grief and was always good craic and in good humour. Thanks Martina for everything, and here’s to a great career in your new surroundings.

‘Till next week, Bye for now

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

PropertyPeople

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

NEW TO THE MARKET FOR SALE AT LYSTERFIELD, CURRAGHBOY, CO. ROSCOMMON • Circa 18 acres of top quality agricultural land. The lands are located a short distance off the main Rahara to Curraghboy Road. Most of the lands are of top quality with access to a roadway on three sides. The lands have the benefit of their own electrical supply. This would be an ideal opportunity for local farmers wishing to increase their holdings or for someone looking for a nice compact farm of land located conveniently to the village. This Property has development potential subject to planning permission being granted. For further details please contact the office on 090 6627003 e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com -------------------------------------------------------

LAND TO LET • Circa 18 acres at Curnalee, Dysart, Co. Roscommon. 11 Month Letting. No cattle after 1st November Circa 10 acres at Curnalee, Dysart, Co. Roscommon. 11 Month letting. No cattle after 1st November -------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE • Circa 2 acres of Turbary at Castlesampson • Circa 2 acres of Turbary at Ballyforan Both Bogs are of excellent quality. Contact the office for further details on 09066 27003 -------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE AT STONE PARK, GALWAY ROAD, ROSCOMMON, Greenmount House, a large two storey four bedroomed detached house on circa ½ acre. The residence is located just off the main Galway to Roscommon Road. Accommodation consists of sitting room, dining room and kitchen. Upstairs consists of 4 bedrooms and a bathroom. While the house is in need of some modernisation, it is structurally sound and located on a large elevated site located close to all amenities. The company are accepting every offer in excess of €120,000. Viewing is highly recommended. For further details contact the office on 090 6627003

Final offers sought for prime Kilroosky lands John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week inviting final offers after €180,000 for a prime holding of premium quality roadside lands together with forestry lands containing c. 36.4 acres in total located at Cartron & Kilroosky, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. John describes the lands at as “a highly attractive holding of excellent quality roadside lands located with excellent road frontage located in a select agricultural district. The said lands have been maintained to a superior standard and must offer local farmers and excellent opportunity to increase their existing holdings.” The said property can be sold in one or more lots

NEW TO THE MARKET CLOONEENBAUN, ORAN, ROSCOMMON, CO. ROSCOMMON

should market interest dictate due its setting and layout. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and final offers after €180,000 to sell. To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley, FIPAV,

Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 0906626579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie. Find us on facebook at www.facebook. com/propertypartners. earley.

Pat Hughes & Co. Ltd. Auctioneers and Valuers have a two-bedroomed townhouse for sale on a corner site at Convent Court, Convent Road, Roscommon. The residence is currently rented, generating an annual rental income of €7,800 and is finished to a high standard. Tenants are not affected by the sale. Offers in excess of €120,000 are being considered. This property is the ideal investment opportunity, and viewing is highly recommended. For further details please contact the

office on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

Top quality lands at Lysterﬁeld, Curraghboy Pat Hughes & Co. Ltd., Auctioneers and Valuers are delighted to welcome new to the market circa 18 acres of top quality agricultural land for sale at Lysterfield, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon. The lands are located a short distance off the main Rahara to Curraghboy Road. Most of the lands are of top quality with access to a roadway on three sides. The lands have the benefit of their own electrical

supply. This would be an ideal opportunity for local farmers wishing to increase their holdings or for someone looking for a nice compact farm of land located convenient to the village. This property has development potential subject to planning permission being granted. For further details or for any enquiries please contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Final offers sought for prime Kilmore lands and residence

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URGENTLY REQUIRED • All types of property are urgently required in and around the Roscommon area. Due to a lot of recent sales, Hughes & Company require properties for disappointed under bidders. Cash Customers Available. ------------------------------------------------------• Lands to Let or Lease on 11 months

or 5 year lease

------------------------------------------------------If you are thinking of buying or selling contact Pat, let him advise you his advice is free. Please contact the office on 09066 27003 or e-mail info@pathughesauctioneers.com

www.propertypartners.ie Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon. Tel. 090 66 26579. Fax: 090 66 25405. EMAIL: jearley@propertypartners.ie A 4 ROOMED RESIDENCE OF C. 750 SQ.FT LOCATED AT

Townhouse with rental income

John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week inviting final offers above €150,000 for a prime farm of lands containing c. 39.38 acres with the benefit of a

PSA Licence number: 001481 PSRA Licence No. 001481

two-storey residence of c. 1,350 square foot located at Dangan, Kilmore, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Roscommon. John describes the property as “a prime farm of

lands with the benefit of a two-storey residence of c. 1,350 sq. ft. (in need of modernisation) and farm buildings set to the side. The said property is located convenient to the villages of Dangan and Kilmore and the auctioneers now invite immediate viewing and all final offers after €150,000 to sell. BER residence: Exempt.” 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.

Price Guide: €25,000 ono to sell. A 4 roomed residence in derelict condition standing on a prime site area of c. 0.86 of an acre located at Clooneenbaun adjacent to Oran GAA grounds on the main Roscommon to Castlebar route (N60) with storage sheds set to the side c. 6.4 km from Roscommon town. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. BER: Exempt. LEGAL: PETER H JONES & CO, GOFF ST, ROSCOMMON. 090 66 26925. -------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET A HIGHLY ATTRACTIVE 4 B/R DETACHED RESIDENCE OF C. 1,300 SQ. FT LOCATED AT

CELTIC AVENUE, ROSCOMMON TOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON

Price Guide: €150,000 ono to sell. A quality 4 B/R detached bungalow residence located in a highly select and mature residential development beside Roscommon town centre. The said property offers spacious living accommodation throughout with the benefit of a large mature site area with a detached garage of c. 200 sq.ft standing thereon. The auctioneers now invite immediate viewings and all offers to sell. BER: D2. -------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEW TO THE MARKET A COMPACT PARCEL OF LANDS CONTAINING C. 25.06 ACRES IN TOTAL LOCATED AT

CLOONASTIALLAS, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON A prime parcel of lands set out in one main lot and comprised in folio RN31077. This said sale offers neighbouring land owners a prime opportunity to acquire a manageable holding of lands in this select farming district and the auctioneers now invite immediate enquiries and all offers to sell. LEGAL: MR PADRAIG KELLY, SOLICITOR, FARNBEG, STROKESTOWN, CO. ROSCOMMON. 071 96 33666. -------------------------------------------------------------------------

LANDS FOR LEASE – new letting c. 52 acres of well fenced, fresh lands located at Triala Dillon, Mount Cashel, Roscommon with the benefit of mains water and private pump supply, cattle crush and pen, 3 bay hayshed for storage. Can be let in one or more lots should market interest dictate. Suggested lease terms: 5 – 6 years. Usual letting terms apply. -------------------------------------------------------------------------

LANDS TO LET • c. 33 acres located at Ballybrogan, Lecarrow from now until the 1st November 2018. • c. 7 acres located at Caggle, Strokestown from now until the 1st November 2018. • c. 20 acres located at Kilteevan, Roscommon from now until the 1st December 2018. Enquiries invited for the above and other lettings available on our books.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

PropertyPeople

Cottage on 3.5 acres at Strokestown Sean Naughton Auctioneers are accepting final offers on a three bedroomed cottage on 3.5 acres at Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. Accommodation briefly consists of: kitchen, living room, sitting room, three bathrooms and bathroom. The property has additional benefit of a solid fuel stove; this property is full of old world charm with wooden ceilings and beams. The cottage has been beautifully restored and is located in a scenic area of rolling

countryside with unspoilt landscape. It offers magnificent views of the surrounding areas. This property must be seen to be appreciated and viewing is highly recommended. Open to realistic offers. Final offers to be submitted to the office on or before 5 pm on Friday, 3rd March. For further information, please contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090 6625080 or email seannaughton@eircom. net.

Prime farm at Mullymux, Roscommon John Earley, FIPAV of Property Partners Earley, Roscommon is this week offering to the market a renowned and superior quality dual purpose farm of lands containing c. 41 acres (with the benefit of entitlements and greening payments passing of

c. €2,400 per annum), located in the townland of Mullymux beside Roscommon town. John describes the farm as “one of the finest parcels of quality limestone lands all set out in permanent grass to come on the market recently

in a superb location just off the main N61 Boyle route and only c. 4km from Roscommon town. The said lands are set out in one lot and must be of interest to all clients wishing to acquire a superior holding on lands. We now invite immediate viewings and enquiries for immediate sale.” To arrange maps or for further details contact John Earley, FIPAV, Property Partners Earley, Stone Court, The Square, Roscommon on 0906626579, email jearley@ propertypartners.ie or log onto www.propertypartners.ie.

FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY SOLE SELLING AGENTS FARRAGHER, FOURMILEHOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Ideal family home on Convent Road Sean Naughton Auctioneers offer to the market this week, a three-bedroomed, luxury detached residence for sale by private treaty at Convent Road, Roscommon Town. Accommodation consists of a kitchen/dining room, large living room, sitting room, conservatory, utility, three bedrooms (en-suite) and bathroom. This property has the additional benefits of a large mature garden to the rear, three sheds and a self-contained office area. Would be suitable as an ideal family home, located close to both Convent and CBS primary and secondary schools. Viewing is highly recommended. Offers in the Region of €190,000. For further information, please contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090 6625080 or email seannaughton@ eircom.net.

Top quality lands Pat Hughes & Co. Ltd., Auctioneers and Valuers, are confirming that the company have circa 10 acres of top quality agricultural land with a four-bay hayshed for sale at Ballinagard Road, Roscommon.

LOT 1: Old residence and 56 acres of top quality land. LOT 2: Old residence on 8.9 acres of top quality land and 2.2 acres of bog LOT 3: 32 acres of top quality land fronting onto both roads, suitable for dual purpose agricultural uses, land with excellent road frontage. LOT 4: 14 acres of top quality land with old residence together with old outbuildings. This is one of the most desirable farms to have come on the market in recent years in a much sought after area. Price on application SOLICITOR REBECCA FINNERTY,GOFF ST, ROSCOMMON -----------------------------------------------------------------------

FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY GRANGE, FOURMILEHOUSE, CO. ROSCOMMON 12 acres of top quality land for sale at Grange, Fourmilehouse, Co Roscommon. Price on application

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PSRA Licence No. 001350

Pat will accept offers in excess of €100,000. For further details or for any enquiries please contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers.com

On books of Ivan Connaughton Ivan Connaghton & Co. Auctioneers are offering new to the market a spacious four-bedroomed detached residence in excellent condition located in a much sought after residential area close to all amenities. The property is within walking distance of the newly-constructed Cloonakilla National School. Viewing highly recommended and by appointment only. Contact the office on 090-6663700 or email info@ivanconnaghton. com for further details.

●

Property Sales ● Lettings ● Valuations

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

M.S.C.S.I

PUBLIC AUCTION - FRIDAY 10TH MARCH 2017 AT 2PM LOCATION: GLEESON’S TOWNHOUSE, ROSCOMMON TOWN PRIME THREE BED BUNGALOW RESIDENCE 1 ROSELAWN DRIVE, BALLYGAR, CO. GALWAY RESERVE €120,000

FOUR BED RESIDENCE ON C. 4.8 ACRES, SOUTH VIEW, BRIARFIELD, LISACUL, CO. ROSCOMMON RESERVE €85,000 Solicitor for Sale: Eamon Gallagher Solicitor, Tubbercurry. Tel: 071-9185011

Attractive bungalow near Dysart Auctioneer Ivan Connaghton is offering for sale an attractive fourbedroomed bungalow on a large site c.0.75 acres of land. This residence is located approximately 1.5 km from the village of Dysart. Decorated to a very high standard internally it has much to offer from the large rooms to the large site with the added benefit of a detached garage to rear. A large driveway leads to the property which extends to the rear with large lawned gardens to both front and rear of property with

Sean Naughton MIPAV COMMISSIONER FOR OATHS, AUCTIONEERS, VALUERS, ESTATE AGENTS THE SQUARE, ROSCOMMON TEL: (090) 6625080 ((offi office) ce) Mob: 086 2479486 — Fax: (090) 6627161 Email: seannaughton@eircom.net Web: www.seannaughtonauctioneers.ie

mature trees. Accommodation consists of reception hallway, sitting room, kitchen/dining room, utility room, four bedrooms, one ensuite and

large main bathroom. Viewing is recommended. Contact the office on 090-6663700 or email info@ivanconnaghton.com for further details.

Solicitor for Sale: Terry O’Keeffe Solicitor, Roscommon Town. Tel: 090-6626239 Open Viewing Saturday 18th February 2pm - 3pm (or by appointment)

THREE PRIME BUILDING SITES ARDSALLAGH MORE, ATHLONE ROAD, ROSCOMMON RESERVE €120,000 Solicitor for Sale: Sean Mahon Solicitor, Roscommon Town. Tel: 090-6626102

C.37.11 ACRE RESIDENTIAL FARM WITH TWO BED RESIDENCE CAVE ADSUM, MANTUAR & CARRIGEEN, FRENCHPARK, CO. ROSCOMMON RESERVE €190,000 Solicitor for Sale: Marita Dockery Solicitor, Elphin. Tel: 071-9635350

Open Viewing Saturday 18th February 2pm- 3pm (or by appointment)

PRIME BUILDING SITE, WITH FPP CLOONAKILLEG, MOUNT TALBOT, CO. ROSCOMMON RESERVE €15,000 Solicitor for Sale: Terry O’Keeffe Solicitor, Roscommon Town. Tel: 090-6626239

LUXURY THREE BED RESIDENCE 17 BALLYCLARE COURT, BALLYLEAGUE, CO. ROSCOMMON RESERVE €105,000 Solicitor for Sale: William Brandon Solicitor, Roscommon Town. Tel: 090-6626245

Open Viewing Saturday 18th February 12-1pm (or by appointment)

CIRCA 18.9 ACRES OF LANDS COOLAGARRY, LOUGHGLYNN, CO. ROSCOMMON RESERVE €45,000 Solicitor for Sale: Mary Mullarkey Solicitor, Castlerea. Tel: 094-9625420

WANTED LANDS FOR LEASING ALL AREAS FOR SHORT OR LONG TERM LEASING

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

PropertyPeople

Quality family home in heart of Roscommon Town REA Seamus Carthy is now inviting enquiries for a quality 4/5 bedroomed twostorey family home at number 1 Antogher Court in Roscommon Town. Considered a quality family home and situated in a sought after residential suburb convenient to schools, shops, medical centre, leisure centre, swimming pool, golf course etc. Seamus Carthy has confirmed that the residence is finished to a high standard internally and externally. With its generous mature site, attractive paved driveway, spacious front garden and private rear garden, an increasingly rare opportunity to purchase a quality family home in the heart of Roscommon Town is now available. Accommodation comprises of: entrance hallway, living room, dining room, kitchen, utility, WC, sun room, sitting room/office/bedroom/playroom on

the ground floor. On the first floor, there are four bedrooms with master ensuite and bathroom. Antogher Court itself is a small housing estate of only ten, mainly owner-occupier, family homes. Contact sole selling agents REA Seamus Carthy 090 66 30001 today to arrange viewing.

Pristine bungalow close to Lough Ree Sean Naughton Auctioneers are offering a five bedroomed bungalow at Cloonconra, Ballymurray, Co. Roscommon situated in a prime location, just two miles from Lough Ree on the River Shannon. Accommodation includes a living room, sitting room, kitchen, dining

room, utility room, toilet, five bedrooms (one en-suite with walk-in wardrobe) and bathroom. The property is surrounded by large, well-maintained landscaped gardens with mature trees and shrubbery, and to the rear is a large workshop and garage. This property has recently been refurbished throughout and come to the market in pristine condition. Viewing is highly recommended. Open to realistic offers. For further information, please contact Sean Naughton Auctioneers on 090 6625080 or email seannaughton@eircom.net.

Attractive mid-terrace bungalow in Castlerea REA Seamus Carthy are delighted to bring, new to the market, a most attractive two bedroomed mid-terrace dormer bungalow situated in a most convenient location within Castlerea Town. This property is located with all facilities, schools, shops, bank, church and railway station literally on its doorstep. Comprising of a living room, kitchen, en-suite bedroom at ground floor with a bedroom and bathroom at first floor. Presented in good condition, the property is easily maintained with a small garden area to front and enclosed patio area/yard to rear. Immediate viewings strongly advised and offers invited. Guiding price: €70,000. Contact REA Seamus Carthy on 090 66 30001 to arrange appointment to view.

CARRAIG RUA, FERMOYLE, LANESBORO, CO. LONGFORD

Quality, well presented, detached 4 bedroom dormer bungalow with large detached workshop in a most picturesque rural setting. Ready for immediate occupation. Viewing is strongly advised.

Guide Price: €195,000. _______________________________________

RIVERLODGE, CASTLECOOTE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Bids in excess of €120,000 sought for Roscommon residence Pat Hughes & Co. Ltd., Auctioneers and Valuers are delighted to welcome to the market Greenmount House – a large two-storey four-bedroomed detached residence at Stonepark, Galway Road, Roscommon. Accommodation consists of a sitting room, dining room and kitchen. Upstairs consists of four bedrooms and a bathroom. While the house is in need of some modernisation, it is structurally sound and located on a large elevated site of circa half an acre located close to all amenities. The company are ac-

PSRA Licence Number 002782

Exceptional 4 bedroom detached residence offering beautiful views and located in the scenic village of Castlecoote. This superior residence offers many quality features. Viewing is strongly recommended.

Lands and properties urgently required

cepting offers in excess of €120,000. Viewing is highly recommended. For further details please

contact the office on 0906627003 or email info@ pathughesauctioneers. com

Old AIB bank sale imminent? Pat Hughes & Co. Auctioneers and Valuers are confirming that they are at an advanced stage of negotiations for sale of the old AIB Bank located at Church Street, Roscommon. Pat is confirming that they have had a lot of interest over the last number of weeks and hopes to conclude a sale in the coming weeks. For further details or for any enquiries please contact the office on 090-6627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

With the land-letting season rapidly approaching, all types of property are urgently required by auctioneer Pat Hughes in and around the Roscommon area. Due to a lot of recent sales Hughes & Company require properties for disappointed under-bidders. Cash customers are available. Lands to let/lease on 11 months or 5-year lease. If you are thinking of buying or selling contact Pat and let him advise you – his advice is free. For further information contact the office 0906627003.

Guide Price: €295,000.

Top quality lands in Knockcroghery area Pat Hughes & Co. Auctioneers & Valuers are confirming that there is circa nine acres of top quality agricultural land for sale at Corboley, Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon. The lands are located in one block approximately one mile from Knockcroghery village. There is huge development potential with these lands which are overlooking the village. For further details please contact the office on 0906627003 or email info@pathughesauctioneers.com

Call in today for a pre-sale valuation

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

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

FarmingPeople 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 ALL SALES COMMENCE AT 11 AM ALL STOCK PRE BOOKED YARD OPENS AT 8 AM 3 RINGS IN OPERATION FOR SALE ON THURSDAY 23RD FEBRUARY

IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR USUAL SALE

12 Springing Friesian Heifers DUE SHORTLY TO PB HEREFORD BULL STOCK COMING FROM A LONG ESTABLISHED HERD FOR ENQUIRIES CONTACT MART OFFICE OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS

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

Mobile: 087 9839284 ● KEEN RATES ● COVERING ALL AREAS

Serving Farmers since 1985

THINKING OF FORESTRY:

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

Colm Freyne BSc (Forestry)

Galway/Roscommon Ph: 087-6606043

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

Tel: 094 9542668 www.westernforestry.com

KEEP YOUR FARM SAFE

Angus success for Glenamaddy students Cathal Moran and John Duignan, Transition Year students in Glenamaddy Community School, are into the final of the Certified Irish Angus Schools Competition to be held in Croke Park on March 15th. The Irish Angus Producers Group will present the outright winners, who have been tasked with helping to promote the breed, with five weanling Angus calves to be reared on local farms. To enter the competition the students produced and submitted a three-minute video about their plans and ideas on promoting the Angus breed to farmers and consumers. Their video was selected from hundreds of entries nationwide. They were then interviewed by a panel of judges and have now been invited to present their findings, in Croke Park, to representatives from the agricultural and meat production sectors who will ultimately decide the winning entry. Cathal and John entered on the recommendation of the Glenamaddy Community school’s Agricultural

Glenamaddy Community School students, John Duignan and Cathal Moran, pictured with John Heneghan, SuperValu, Glenamaddy, and his prize-winning Angus bull ‘Jackie Mike’ at a recent Midlands and Western Livestock Improvement Society Show in Carrick-on-Shannon.

Science teacher, Marie Hession: “Both lads have a great interest in cattle farming and they plan to continue their Agricultural Science work at Leaving

Castlerea Mart Report Sale, 9/2/17: 650 cattle were on offer this week, and trade and prices were similar to last week. Store heifers in particular reported a very strong trade while the bullocks and weanlings also reported good clearances. Bigger numbers of breeding stock coming on offer this week while the dry cows reported strong demand especially for the feeder cows. Sample prices – bullocks: Lm 460kgs €1180 Lm 490kgs €1235 AA 540kgs €1300 Ch 580kgs €1360 Ch 550kgs €1275 Ch 630kgs €1450 Lm 670kgs €1530. Heifers: Lm 415kgs €1085 Lm 400kgs €1055 Ch 410kgs €1080 Lm 480kgs €1195 Ch 440kgs €1180 Ch 515kgs €1440 Ch 540kgs €1415 Lm 570kgs €1325. Dry cows: Lm 795kgs €1500 Lm 735kgs €1450 Si 805kgs €1220 Fr 500kgs €645 Si 810kgs €1345. Cows with calves at foot made from €1020 to €1330 per head. Springer cows made from €700 to €1520 per head. Dairy cows made from €1150 to €1280 per head. Calves: Young calves made from €150 to €340 per head. Runners made from €375 to €770 per head. Weanling heifers: Ch 280kgs €890 Lm 360kgs €1055 Lm 300kgs €990 Ch 370kgs €1115 Ch 280kgs €850. Weanling bulls: Ch 270kgs €825 Lm 280kgs €900 Lm 265kgs €810 Ch 440kgs €1205 Lm 305kgs €1000 Ch 510kgs €1215. Sales continue at 11 am in Castlerea Mart on Thursday, 16th of February with our usual sale of bullocks, heifers, cows, calves and weanlings with three rings in operation.

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Cert. These are hard-working, confident teenagers who have gone out of their way to meet local farmers, vets and representatives of Kepak, ABP and the Irish

Angus Producers Group, the joint sponsors of this educational competition – the attitude of the lads and the sponsors is to be applauded and encour-

aged. Parents, relatives and friends are showing their support for the duo on Facebook and their entry is growing in popularity which is great to see.”

‘Expand Your Horizons’ with Teagasc Join Teagasc and the NRN to explore what your area can offer you as you ‘Expand Your Horizons’. Explore on or offfarm business possibilities – have you considered setting up a tourism or food business? Re-train or up-skill for a new form of employment, or explore what funding is available in your area. Are you aware of all the availablle benefits and supports for farm farmilies? Meet the agencies providing services in your area – LEADER Implementing Partners, Local Action Groups, Local Enterprise Offices, Citizens Information, Mental Health Ireland, Money and Advice Bureaus, Education and Training Boards, Fáilte Ireland and Inland Fisheries Ireland. They will be on hand to provide a flavour of the opportunities they offer and the role they play in improving the viability of rural areas. Join us on Wednesday, 22nd of February from 8 pm-10 pm at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon to find out what resources and opportunities are availlable to you. All are welcome to attend and the event is free.

National Rural Network

Join Teagasc and the NRN to explore what your area can offer you as you ‘Expand Your Horizons’. explore on or off-farm business possibilities - have you considered setting up a tourism or food business? ● re-train or up-skill for a new form of employment, or explore what funding is available in your area ● are you aware of all the available benefits and supports for farm families? ●

Meet the agencies providing services in your area - LEADER Implementing Partners, Local Action Groups, Local Enterprise Offices, Citizens Information, Mental Health Ireland, Money and Advice Bureaus, Education and Training Boards, Fáilte Ireland and Inland Fisheries Ireland, who will be on hand to provide a flavour of the opportunities they offer and the role they play in improving the viability of rural areas. All are welcome to attend these free events which run from 8 to 10pm

Date Wednesday, 22nd Feb

Location Venue Roscommon Abbey Hotel, Roscommon

Thursday, 23rd Feb

Longford

Longford Arms Hotel

Expand Your Horizons www.teagasc.ie

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

FarmingPeople

IFA outline case for National Reserve for Young Farmers in 2017 Following a meeting of the CAP Advisory Committee in the Department of Agriculture, IFA Deputy President Richard Kennedy said IFA is very clear on the need for a National Reserve for young farmers in 2017. He said the National Reserve can be funded from unused funds allocated under the Young Farmer Scheme without the necessity to take any additional funds from existing entitlements.

Richard Kennedy said the Department of Agriculture outlined to the committee that there is €5.1m in unused funds from the Young Farmer Scheme available and this can be used to establish a reserve for 2017. He said IFA made it very clear to the Department at the advisory committee that imposing additional linear cuts on existing entitlements is not acceptable to farmers. Richard Kennedy said

IFA demands a lift in lamb prices At a meeting between IFA and the lamb factories from Meat Industry Ireland (MII) in Dublin, IFA President Joe Healy said hogget finishers are extremely frustrated with the loss-making prices on offer from the meat plants, which are down 65c/kg or €15 per head on this time last year. He said in some instances, with weight cuts, the losses are as high as €20 per lamb. Joe Healy said a National Sheep Committee delegation from the IFA told the factories in very blunt terms the poor prices along with unfair weight limit cuts on top of clipping charges had seriously eroded confidence in the sheep sector. He said IFA and Agriculture Minister Michael Creed worked very hard to secure a new €25m sheep welfare scheme, which had provided a great boost to the sector – but this had been seriously undermined by the latest developments on the market side. The IFA President said the factories are adopting an approach that is way too negative and is undermining market confidence. He called on the factories to come out and offer a viable price for in-spec quality lambs.

there was full agreement at the committee on this important point. The IFA Deputy President said Irish farmers have made a very positive contribution to young farmers in terms of funding and allocation of additional entitlements through the National Reserve. He said under the CAP Reform in 2015, young farmers were allocated a total of €52.5m from the National Reserve and Young

Farmer Scheme. He said under the National Reserve in 2015, 6,260 farmers – of which 5,570 were young farmers – received an average payment of €9,000 in Basic Payment and Greening. In addition, 9,050 young farmers received an average of €2,900 payment top-up under the Young Farmers Scheme in 2015 and this continued into 2016.

Overall Champion of the Roscommon Show 2016

Each Friday at 11 a.m. -------------------

Special Spring Sale of Heifers This Friday, February 17th at 11 a.m 45 pens of Heifers on offer. Also Bullocks & Dry Cows -------------------------

Friday, March 3rd at 11 a.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 23rd Also Heifers & Dry Cows ---------------------

Special Springtime Sale of Weanlings

Pictured is James Gleeson, chairperson, Roscommon Show, and John Harte, who was the sponsor of the Overall Champion of the Roscommon Show 2016.

GLAS payments ‘must speed up signiﬁcantly’ – IFA Mr. Padraig Corcoran, Roscommon IFA Rural Development Chairman has said there must be significant acceleration of GLAS payments, following confirmation of the most recent pay run; otherwise it will be months before cases are cleared. He said recent payments made to 323 farmers represent some progress but the numbers paid in each run need to increase substantially. Mr. Corcoran said it is absolutely unacceptable that farmers who joined the GLAS scheme almost two years ago, and who were promised payments last October, are still waiting with no definite answers as to when they can expect to get paid.

Lim X 680 kgs €1165, AAX 570 kgs €1160, Char x 725 kgs €1120, AAX 500 kgs €950, AAX 545 kgs €885. Heifers made from €290 to €655 over. Sample prices: Char X 495 kgs €1150, Char X 520 kgs €1140, SAX 575 kgs €1100, Lim X 505 kgs €1070, Lim X 445 kgs €1020, Lim X 425 kgs €980, Lim x 300 kgs €910, BBX 345 kgs €900. Bullocks made from €450 to €913 over. Sample prices: Char X 770 kgs €1575, 2 Char 572 kgs €1485, 3 Lim X 630 kgs €1430, 4 Char x 595 kgs €1390, 3 Lim X 560 kgs €1380, 3 Char 545 kgs €1335,Char X 555 kgs €1350, Lim 555 kgs €1325, 2 BAX 530 kgs €1370, AAX 555 kgs €1240, Char X 445 €1205, Simm X 500 kgs €1155, Char X 440 kgs €1080, AAX 380 kgs €900, Tuesday, February 14th: There was a large entry of excellent quality stock on offer at Tuesday’s sale. There was a brisk trade for weanling bulls with prices averaging from €2.51 per kilo up to €3.40 per kilo. The trade for weanling heifers was also vi-

Bullocks, Heifers & Dry Cows

Special Mid Spring Sale of Bullocks

He called on the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed to immediately pursue with the European Commission the IFA proposal that all farmers awaiting GLAS payments are now paid and that any issues surrounding plans would be sorted out later. In addition, IFA has urged the Department that where particular measures in a GLAS plan are cleared, payments should be made to farmers on these qualifying measures, even where there are issues with other measures in the plan. Movement on GLAS payments follows an IFA protest at the Department of Agriculture.

Roscommon Mart Report Friday, February 10th: There were larger numbers on offer this week with the trade remaining positive. Prices for bullocks were improved with prices ranging from an average of €2.28 per kilo up to €2.80 per kilo. The trade for heifers was similar to the previous week with prices averaging from €2.23 per kilo up to €3.03 per kilo. There was also a better trade for dry cows with all lots sold and prices ranging from €1.70 per kilo up to €2.22 per kilo. Once again this week there was a good attendance of customers anxious for stock resulting in a very high percentage of lots getting sold. Friday sales continue weekly for bullocks, heifers and dry cows. Special spring sale of heifers – tomorrow (Friday, 17th) 11 am - 42 pens on offer. Special sale of springers – Saturday, 25th at 12 noon - Bookings now being accepted. Dry cows made from €775 to €1535 per lot. Sample prices: Lim 690 kgs €1535, Lim X 675 kgs €1400, Char X 645 kgs €1205,

(Serving Farmers for over 57 years)

Property Services Providers Licence No. 001373

brant with averages of €2.63 per kilo up to €3.33 per kilo. There was a large attendance of farmers, exporters and agents all very anxious for stock. Special mid-spring sale of weanlings on Tuesday, 28th at 5 pm. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm on Thursday, 23rd. Special sale of springers, suckler cows and cows with calves at foot on Saturday, 25th at 12 noon. Bookings accepted up to 5 pm today (Thursday, 16th). Weanling heifers made from €450 to €785 over. Sample prices: Char X 355 kgs €1140, Lim X 445 kgs €1090, Si 335 kgs €1090, Char X 345 kgs €1090, BBX 365 kgs €1065, BBX 300 kgs €990, Char X 305 kgs €890, 2 Lim 310 kgs €885, Lim X 280 kgs €860,Char X 255 kgs €850, Lim X €800, Char X 270 kgs €775, Lim 215 kgs €705. Weanling bulls made from €480 to €840 over. Sample prices: Char 555 kgs €1345, Char X 510 kgs €1320, Lim X 455 kgs €1160, BBX 375 kgs €1100, Char X 400 kgs €1050, Char X 375 kgs

€1050, Char X 370 kgs €1030, Char 355 kgs €1025, Char X 340 kgs €1000, Char X 340 kgs €1000, Lim X 345 kgs €960, BBX 295 kgs €973, Char X 390 kgs €910, Lim X 300 kgs €920. Sheep sale – Wednesday, February 15th: We had a small entry of sheep this week. There was a better trade for the finished hoggets with hoggets making as high as €110. There was an improvement in trade for cast ewes compared to the previous week. We had a large entry of in-lamb ewes this week and we had a full clearance. Sales continue each Wednesday at 11 am for lambs and cast ewes. Sheep scanning service continues every Wednesday from 9 am to 10 am. Sample prices - Hoggets: 54.7kgs €110, 53.8kgs €108.5, 53.5kgs €107.5, 50kgs €105, 49.4kgs €105, 49.7kgs €101, 41kgs €85, 40kgs €80. Cast ewes made from €90 to €130 per lot, in lamb ewes made from €100 to €170 per lot, ewe with three Lambs at foot made €160.

Tuesday, February 28th at 5p.m. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on Thursday, 23rd February ---------------------

Special Sale of Springers & Suckler Cows Saturday, February 25th at 12 noon. Bookings accepted up to 5 p.m. on this Thursday, February 16th ------------

Lambs & Cast Ewes Each Wednesday at 11 a.m. Included in sale Wednesday March 1st – 20 Excellent in Lamb Suffolk X Hoggets In lamb to P.B. Char Ram due 8th March onwards --------------

Sheep Scanning Service 9 a.m. to 10 a.m

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

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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

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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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

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BLOCK AND BRICKLAYING

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

CARS FOR SALE < FOR SALE: 2012 Nissan Micra Acenta 1.2 petrol pure drive. Low tax, 28,400 miles. Met blue. 11 Month warranty. 2 year NCT. Spec inc. alloys, SatNav, CD, Bluetooth, USB/AUX, Isofix, MFSW, traction control plus more. €7,650. Contact Michael on 086 4534040.

CHIMNEY CLEANING

Grace O’Reilly

COMPLETE CHIMNEY SERVICES

Galway Road, Roscommon Phone: (090) 6626023 (086) 8225575

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

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

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

• 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 • Can be cleaned from the bottom up • Chimney cowels and crow guards fitted

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

FAST, RELIABLE AND NO MESS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS ST. COMAN’S CLUB, ROSCOMMON

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

BOUNCING CASTLES ROSCOMMON CASTLES

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

Phone No: (087) 4136355

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

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

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

CAREERS CAREER ASSESSMENT & ADVICE

CHIROPODIST

Tel: 087 2798704

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

071 9637984 / 086 3562718

CHIROPRACTOR ROSCOMMON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC Specialising in:

• BACK PAIN • HEADACHES • NECK PAIN • LIMB PAIN

Phone: (086) 8433433

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.

Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon. David Connor BSC (Hon.) Chiro. MSc. Chiropractic Association of Ireland

VHI and Laya Covered

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

The local paper!

SYL’s

School of Motoring

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

Call (085) 1348779

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

DRIVING LESSONS

JOHN DOORLY School of Motoring RSA REGISTERED AND FORMER DRIVER TESTER

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

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

TEL: 086 2387528 www.aclearsteerdriving.com

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

Contact: 085 1348779 COUNSELLING

MCFHP, MAFHP

Foot Care Practitioner

DRIVING LESSONS

ACCOUNTS

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

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

DIVORCE < DIVORCE OR SEPARATE IN WEEKS: Couple use qualified mediator instead of Solicitors and Barristers saving thousands on legal fees. All documentation prepared for court. Contact Galway Divorce and Separations, tel: 087 3727283.

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

Learn to drive with ....

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

FARMING < ABATTOIR SERVICE AVAILABLE: Cattle, lambs and pigs. Ready for freezing. Home Cured and Honey Dry cured traditional bacon (not pumped with water) now available. Webb’s Butcher’s 094 96 20005 or 086 4094715. < FOR SALE: 10 bales of silage. Lecarrow area. Tel: 085 1581885. < FOR SALE: Round bales of hay/silage. Rahara area. Tel: 087 9970008. < 6 STORES FOR OUTBUILDINGS: €90 the lot. Glenamaddy area. Tel: 086 2200520. < FOR SALE: 2015 bales of Silage. Extra wrapped, 70/80 bales. Kilrooskey/ Strokestown area. Tel: 086 8240561. < STRAW FOR SALE: €18. Also round bales of Silage. Tel: 086 1945562. < FOR SALE: 100 bales of good quality June silage. Scramogue/Strokestown area. Tel: 086 2244614. < FOR SALE: 2015 bales of silage. Extra wrapped. 70/80 bales. Kilrooskey/Strokestown area. Contact: 086 8240561.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

Classifieds FARMING FOR SALE: British Fresian and Jersey X Fresian incalf heifers and second calf cows. Also maiden heifers. Contact: 086 8599443. FARMLAND AND FARMERS REQUIRED for contract rearing of replacement heifers for groups of 15 animals to 40 animals. Contact: 086 8599443. < LAND TO LET: Lecarrow area. Phone 086 8580033 after 6pm. < CALVES FOR SALE: Large selection of fresh calves weekly. Contact: 086 1996367

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

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

FOR SALE W. MANNIONS FURNITURE Glenamaddy Tel: 094 96 59004 FEBRUARY - MASSIVE CLEARANCE SALE • End of lines suites and new stock • Dining sets to clear • Bedding - all makes & sizes, 100 in stock. • Electrical, gas and electric cookers/fridges/ dryers - all reduced to clear • Lighting • Giftware 100 new mats and rugs all at rock bottom prices. Don’t miss out MANNION’S well worth a visit FOR SALE: Full sized professional snooker table in mint condition, 12ft 6” long by 6ft 8” wide with all accessories, light, etc. Price €1,500. Contact: 086 8376780.

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

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

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

FOR HIRE RM TOOL HIRE Roscommon West Business Park, Circular Road, Roscommon Hire – Sales – Repairs – Construction DIY & Garden Equipment Mini Digger Hire Tel: (090) 6630700 Mobile: (087) 8299628.

FOR SALE < FOR SALE: New complete double divan bed including leather base and headboard, memory foam pocket sprung mattress. Still in packaging. Retail €950, will sell for €240 including free delivery. Tel: 086 4438919.

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

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

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

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

Contact Walter on 087 9519873

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

Phone John on 087 2860428

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

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

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

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

Tattie Hoaker, Health Store, Goff Street, Roscommon

Phone: (086) 3614230

KENNELS

● Amatsu Therapy

& orthopaedic sports massage

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

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

PAT TREACY • Painting and Decorating • Commercial & Domestic • Spray Painting • Wallpapering • Power Washing

Tel: (086) 8077313 PERSONAL AND SOCIAL < GENTLEMAN WOULD LIKE TO MEET lady companion. Roscommon/Athlone area. Please reply to Box No: 981 c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

LISBROCK BOARDING KENNELS & CATTERY

Roscommon Physical Therapy Clinic

Brideswell, Athlone, Co. Roscommon

18 years experience in treating babies to adults

• Spacious Kennels provided • Spacious exercise areas outside • Short Term - Long Term boarding welcomed • Dogs walked on request.

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

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

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

● Neuromuscular therapy

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

PROFESSIONAL PAINTING & DECORATING CONTRACTOR

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

086 3482387

For all your decorating needs

moleskin architecture@gmail.com

CONTACT JOHN 086 4679798

facebook.com/moleskinarch

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I, Aisling Archer, am applying to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission for the change of use of part of my existing dwellinghouse from residential accommodation to a playschool, together with all ancillary works at No. 7, Warren Drive, Abbeytown, Warren or Drum Td., Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Michael Archer (Agent for Aisling Archer) Archer Consulting Engineers, Mill Road, Boyle Co. Roscommon Tel: 071 9663360

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I Brendan Beirne, on behalf of Ballinameen GAA club intend to apply for full planning permission for development at this site: Carkfree Td, Ballinameen, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of the following: 1) to construct a new storey and a half type dressing room to incorporate two no. dressing rooms and also other ancillary rooms 2) to decommission existing waste water treatment facility and percolation area and install new waste water treatment facility and percolation area to current EPA guidelines 3) to provide additional car parking spaces and all associated site works at Carkfree Td., Ballinameen, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Brendan Beirne Club Chairman

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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

www.morrislohan.ie ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL I intend to apply to Roscommon County Council for Planning Permission to erect an agricultural shed, a manure pit with effluent storage tank, a silage base, a cattle crush with effluent storage tank, a water harvesting tank and ancillary site works at Thomastown, Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Dermot Kelly. The Planning Application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Application and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying for planning permission, on behalf of Conor Malone and Patrick Heslin, to construct an extension to the kitchen at ‘The Moorings’, Kilfaughna Townland, Boyle. Signed: Mary O’Hara & Associates, Civil Engineering Consultants, Market Street, Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon. 094 98 61515 The planning application may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable costs of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submission or observation will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

Classifieds

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

PLANNINGS

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL Áras an Chontae, Roscommon, County Roscommon FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS Name of Applicant: Kevin Doherty. Ref Number of the Application: PD/16/433. The development, at this site Cuilmore Townland, Cootehall, Boyle, Co. Roscommon, as per amended description, applied for consisted of: a) proposed ground floor kitchen area extension to the kitchen area previously permitted and granted under Planning ref: PD/09/16 and An Bord Pleanála ref: PL.20235612 to the eastern elevation, b) proposed ground floor dining area extension to the dining area previously permitted and granted under Planning Refs. PD/09/16 and An Bord Pleanála Refs: PL.20235612 to the western elevation with omission of the shop chandlery previously permitted and granted, granted under above Planning and An Bord Pleanála Refs. c) proposed free standing building including toilets, showers and bin storage facilities on the western curtilage side of the proposed restaurant building, d) Re-allocation of the proposed carpark spaces with total number increased from 40 previously permitted and granted, granted under Planning Refs. PD/09/16 and An Bord Pleanála Refs: PL.20235612 to 44 as per following configuration; 2 no for people with disabilities, increase from 7 to 14 no for restaurant guests, 26 for marina users, 2 no for apartment guests, omission of 3 no for the shop chandlery e) all associated site development works at Cuilmore Townland, Cootehall, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Signed: Kevin Doherty.

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, Deeney Engineering and Planning Services, are applying to Roscommon County Council, on behalf of Ballaghaderreen FC, for Planning Permission, to install flood lighting, comprising 4No 18m high lampposts, and all ancillary site works and services at Toomanagh TD, Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon. Signed: Deeney Engineering and Planning Services. Tel 086 2503109

Significant Further Information and Revised Plans in relation to the application have been furnished to the Planning Authority and are available for inspection or purchase at the fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making copy, at the offices of the Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information and Revised Plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice shall be submitted to the Planning Authority.

This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of a prescribed fee within a period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application

ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We, APK Architects & Engineers, intend to apply on behalf of Castlerea St Kevins GAA Club for planning permission to Roscommon county council at: O’Rourke GAA Centre, Demesne Townland, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. The development will consist of: The construction of a new 2 storey building containing dressing rooms, gym and storage areas, connection to public sewer and all ancillary site works. Signed:

We cannot guarantee publication after this time

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

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.

< THREE BED HOUSE TO LET: Roscommon town. OFCH and solid fuel central heating, shed and garden. Excellent condition. Rent reasonable. Contact: 086 1055071. < TO LET: Five Bedroom House. All mod cons. Roscommon town. Contact: 086 065 3757.

PSYCHIC DOLORES PSYCHIC MEDIUM CLAIRVOYANT

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

REFLEXOLOGY The Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland Registered Practice, Roscommon Office: 118 Abbeyville, Gaway Road, Rocommon. M: 0862102190, E: adam@apk.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 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.

PLUMBING OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

PROPERTIES TO LET/RENT/WANTED

PERSON AVAILABLE FOR: Installation and repair services of plumbing, heating systems and oil boiler servicing. All work guaranteed. Covering Athlone, Ballinasloe and South Roscommon areas.

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

Tel: 089 2396383

We cannot guarantee publication after this time

Padraig Healy Car & Mini Bus Hire Wheelchair Accessible

SITUATIONS VACANT <C H I L D M I N D E R REQURIED in the Castlecoote area for two boys. One in National School and one in Secondary School. Own transport essential. Contact: 086 0326535.

Call car direct

< STAFF REQUIRED for Roscommon town restaurant. Experience desirable but not essential. Telephone: 090 66 30503 after 6pm.

TOM KILDUFF CABS

< BABYSITTER REQUIRED: Galway Road Roscommon area. Reply to Box No: 982, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon. < PERSON REQUIRED to mind 19 year old female with special needs. Experience desirable but full training provided. Hours will be discussed with suitable candidate. Kilteevan area. Flexibility essential. Please send CV’s to: C. Dalton, Aughmacree, Kilteevan, Co. Roscommon or contact 087 4658758 between 10am - 5pm. < PART-TIME BAR PERSON REQUIRED for pub, 5 miles from Roscommon town. Apply to Box No: 983, c/o Roscommon People, Abbey Street, Roscommon.

SITUATIONS WANTED < PERSON AVAILABLE FOR housework, babysitting, cleaner, kitchen porter or care of the elderly in Roscommon Town and surrounding areas. Tel: 089 2169509, 087 3515999 or 089 2342678 < LADY AVAILABLE FOR cleaning, babysitting, cooking, care of the elderly, shopping etc. References available. Fluent English and car owner. Tel: 087 1390411.

SOULMATES

OUR DEADLINE IS STRICTLY 2PM ON TUESDAY

TAXIS AND HACKNEYS

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.

(086) 2714879

Tel: (086) 2544662 086 3821515

Pete’s Cabs

Roscommon

TUITION GRINDS IN JUNIOR AND LEAVING CERTIFICATE BUSINESS AND ACCOUNTING

Peter Lynch 086 8400002 TOMMY GILLIGAN

CABS

TELEPHONE: 086 8099 503

JOHN BEATTIE Cab and Bus Hire Roscommon

086 2670670 BUS HIRE FOR ALL OCCASIONS

KELLY’S EYE Taxi and Mini Bus hire.

PHONE: 087-2727888.

FIREWOOD FOR SALE: Hardwood - Ash and Whitethorn. Tel: 086 2437376.

Tutoring for college students in Business, Accountancy and Taxation.

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

LEAVING CERTIFICATE STUDENTS

< FOR SALE: Top quality turf. Glenamaddy area. Tel: 086 2200520.

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

ON GOOD < SALE QUALITY black turf. Well seasoned shed stored screened turf. Sold in various loads to meet the customer’s needs. Tel: 087 3831953.

Contact: Nuala McGowan on 086 0352849. <CASTLEREA/TULSK: LEAVING/JUNIOR CERT Maths, Irish, French. ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE. Private tuition in your own home. Tel: 086 3282437. < 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. < 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.

– Contact –

TURF, FIREWOOD AND FUEL

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

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

Quality Small Job Services For Home or Business

OIL BOILER SERVICE

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

MAL HEVEHAN

SEPTIC TANKS EMPTIED ALSO DRAINS JETTED & CLEANED Waste Collection Permit No: NWCPO-12-11038-01

Telephone: 086 8100292

Contact Maurice on 086 2538169 Gannon Environmental Services Ltd, Creggs

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 and Whitethorn. We are safety certified and insured. Phone: 086 2437376.

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

Contact: 087 6718564

CLASSIFIEDS CONTINUED ON PAGE 44

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

AtYourService BLINDS

BRENDAN DOOLIN

Also Wooden Venetians, Velux Window Blinds. Tel: (090) 66 30521 Mobile: (086) 8115928

CHIMNEY CLEANING

CHIMNEY SWEEP • Open fire, stove, ranges • All flues and chimneys • Power brushed & vaccumed • No mess, no fuss • CCTV camera inspections • Detailed report and CCTV recording provided for insurance claims • Fully insured Also available for powerwashing and gutter cleaning fergalkelly@live.com

Fergal 086 1016899 CHIMNEY REPAIRS

CHIMNEY REPAIRS

- Chimney Repairs - Soot & Smoke Problems - Demolish, Re Build & Re Flue Line - Chimney Fires - Flexible Stainless Steel Liner - Insurance Claims processed

- CCTV Camera Inspection For Professional For Professional Advice Contact Advice Contact: John Hibbitt: Tel: 090

9673336 2678350

Mob: 086 Email:

info@athlonechimneyrepairs.ie

INSULATION

CATHAL DOOLEY 087 6579064

Dead & Worn-Out Animals Contact

CLEANING

WINDOWS/DOORS SHOWROOM:

Racecourse Road, Roscommon

JOHN GREENE

WE SUPPLY & FIT Double & Treble Glazed Windows & Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Porches and Conservatories

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

WIDE RANGE OF COMPOSITE DOORS

BALLINASLOE

Lowest price guaranteed Daily collection

Thermally efficient and high security with reinforced frames offering quality without compromise.

Telephone: 090 66 33026 www.roscommonwindows.ie

CARPENTRY TV

Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation Cellulose, Sheepswool, Fibreglass, SIGA Airtightness

Munsboro, Roscommon • Fitted Kitchens & bedroom units

New Buildings & Retroﬁt

• Doors, Timber Floors • Stairs

Call in or contact us for free advice and quotes

• Attic Conversions and all internal woodwork

(086) 0708833 Unit 2, Ballybrit Industrial Estate, Galway

091 768 768 info@ecowise.ie

www.ecowise.ie WINDOW/DOORS

• Door Handles • Door Locks • Letterboxes • Window Hinges • Patio Door Repairs • Misted and Double Glazed Units • Reseal Windows and Doors

Contact David Martin on (087) 9959417

20 Years Experience Free Insurance Quotes

uPVC WINDOW AND DOOR PARTS

Nationwide Service Stoves and Ranges Fitted All Work Guaranteed

NOW IN STOCK TO SUIT ALL BRANDS • Handles • Hinges • Locks • Letter Boxes • Double Glazed Units supplied and fitted Fully insured

ROSCOMMON WINDOWS RACECOURSE ROAD, ROSCOMMON 090 66 33026

TARMACADAM

Donamon

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Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

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THANKSGIVINGS PRAYER FOR A SPECIAL REQUEST Pray for 3 days, publish on the 3rd day. See what will happen on the 4th day. Oh! Dear Mother of God, Our Lady of Conception, Aparecida! Oh! St. Rita of Cassia and St. Jude worker of Miracles and helper of impossible causes pray for me. St. Expedite, Saint of Urgent cases. Saint Eduioges the Saint of the needy, you know how desperate I feel. Please ask Jesus to help me (here mention your request). May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored and glorified forever. Pray 1 Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit as it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be world without end. Amen. M.W.

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THANKSGIVINGS NOVENA TO ST. JUDE O Holy St. Jude! Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor for all who invoke your special patronage in time of need: to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart, and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St. Jude pray for us and all who invoke your aid. Amen. (Say 3 Our Fathers, 3 Hail Mary’s & 3 Gloria’s.) Publication must be promised. This Novena has never been known to fail. I have had my request granted. Publication promised. M.C.K.

PLANNING EXTRA ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL We are applying on behalf of Kilbride GAA Club for planning permission to carry out refurbishment works to the existing Dressing Rooms involving raising the external walls and the roof by 2 metres so that the upstairs area can be used as an exercise room and for storage with all associated ancillary works at Ballinderry Townland, Co. Roscommon. Signed: AOL Design Ltd. Consulting Engineers C/O Albert Looby, Killeenboy, Kilteevan, Co Roscommon. Tel: (090) 66 28184 Mobile:(086) 8167365 That the planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

APPOINTMENT

Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd Galway Road, Co. Roscommon

CIVIL & STRUCTURAL AND ARCHITECTURAL TECHNICIANS DESCRIPTION: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd are seeking to recruit one civil engineering technician and one architectural technician . Our company offers very interesting projects. COMPANY: Collins Boyd Engineering Ltd, a civil and structural engineering and architectural consultancy currently has a requirement to recruit two Technicians for our Roscommon office. The company have a proven reputation as a professional company who offer an integrated service within civil, structural engineering and architecture. The successful technicians will be required to work on a range of projects, including commercial, residential, pharmaceutical and mixed use developments. This company believes in investing in their staff and providing continued support to facilitate career progression and longevity within their practice. REQUIREMENTS: Must have a Civil engineering or Architectural qualification or equivalent from a recognised third level institution. Cad Technician with 3-5+ years’ experience working within a consultancy environment. Civil or Structural or Architecture Cad Technician with a good knowledge of building regulations in Ireland. Civil or Structural or Architecture Cad Technician with a mix of project experience. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Full Drivers Licence and their own transport SALARY: Excellent remuneration package commensurate with candidate’s experience. LOCATION: Roscommon Town

PLEASE FORWARD YOU EMAIL TO:

Susan, HR Department at info@collinsboydeng.com Before Wednesday the 22nd February 2017.

PART-TIME NIGHT PORTER & KITCHEN PORTER REQUIRED APPLY TO: The Percy French Hotel, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071 - 9633300 or email: info@thepercyfrenchhotel.com

PUBLIC NOTICE Coillte has been approached by interested parties with proposals for sustainable commercial developments on its lands at the townlands of Aghagad, Aghagower, Bracklin, Carrowkeel, Cornaveagh, Creemully and Aghagad Beg, Derryhippoo and Leam, Co. Roscommon. Coillte now invites further proposals from interested parties in relation to the sustainable development of any of these lands. Such proposals should be submitted in writing within 3 weeks of the date of this notice to: elaine.khan@coillte.ie or Elaine Khan, Coillte, Dublin Road, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow. Any proposal submitted should be sufficiently detailed in order to facilitate a commercial assessment of the potential benefits of the project and, in particular, should include details of the nature, scale and time frame of the sustainable development proposal and the likely financial returns to Coillte.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

FamilyNotices ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES SOMERS John Joe

FEE George and Mary

KILDUFF Mary

WHYTE Christy

Who died 11th February 2000 (17th Anniversary)

The Racecourse, Ballymurry, Roscommon (17th and 4th Anniversaries)

(3rd Anniversary) In loving memory of Mary, who died on 16th February 2014

Castlestrange, Athleague Who died 17th February 2016

Quietly today your Memory I treasure Missing you always Forgetting you never. Memories are precious, They don’t fade away, We think of you always, Especially today.

In loving of George, who died on 13th February 2000 and Mary, who died on 16th February 2013 Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear. Rest in Peace.

Lovingly remembered by his wife Mary, daughters, sons and families.

CARR Tommie Joe 4 Thornfield Drive, Lisnamult, Roscommon (2nd Anniversary) Who was called to Heaven on the 17th February 2015

Deep are the memories Precious they stay No passing of time Can take them away.

Sadly missed by his wife Kathleen, daughters, son and grandchildren. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Your life was of kindly deeds A helping hand for other’s needs, Sincere and true in heart and mind Beautiful memories left behind.

Sadly missed by your son Thomas, daughter-in-law Diane, granddaughter Leah. ~~~~~~~~~~~ Softly in the morning You heard a gentle call You took the hand God offered you And quietly left us all.

Sadly missed by your daughter Bernadette. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 18th February in the Sacred Heart Church, Roscommon at 9.30am.

Sadly missed by their family. Details of Mass to follow.

KEDIAN Carolanne Who passed away on 22nd February 2003 (14th Anniversary) Mullymux, Roscommon

Are there rocking chairs in Heaven Where little babies go? Do the Angels hold you closely And rock you to and fro? Do they talk silly baby talk To get a smile or two, And sing the sleepy lullabies We used to sing to you? Our heart is aching for you, Our Angel child so dear. You brought such joy into our life, The short time you were here. We know you’re in a happy place, And in God’s loving care. We dream each night We’re rocking you, In Heaven’s rocking chair.

Loved and always missed, daddy, mammy, Kenneth, Korey, Mark, Dara, Alex and Zoey. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 18th February at 8.15pm in Fourmilehouse Church.

Ros Memorials Headstone, Memorial & Gravestone Specialists

KNOCKCROGHERY, CO. ROSCOMMON

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

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

SCALLY ANNIE (Nee Murphy) Anrattabeg, Ballyleague, Co. Roscommon

Always remembered by your daughter Anne.

KILDUFF Mary 3rd Anniversary 16th February Memories are precious They don’t fade away We think of you always Especially today.

Remembered with love, Thomas, Evelyn and Eddie Kilduff.

KILDUFF MARY 5 Circular Road, Roscommon (3rd Anniversary) 16th February 2014

We, John, Kevin, Caroline and Donal and our extended families, would like to express our sincere appreciation to all who sympathised with us on the sad loss of our Mother. We thank those who attended the removal, funeral Mass, sent Mass cards and who donated to the Western Alzheimers Society. A special thanks to our relatives, friends and neighbours who were so kind throughout the funeral. Thanks to all who helped prepare mother’s final resting place. A Sincere thanks to Fr John McManus who celebrated a lovely Funeral Mass. Also thanks to Padraig O’Reilly and Enya Reilly for their beautiful music and singing, to Farrell’s Undertakers for their professionalism and also to the Abbey Hotel for a lovely meal. Thanks to Dr Colm Farrell for his medical care. A special thank you to Eileen Burke and her staff of Innis Ree Lodge for the care they gave mother in her final years. We sincerely hope that this acknowledgment will be accepted as an expression of our deepest appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions. Annie’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Ballyleague on Saturday, March 4th at 7pm.

Deep are the memories, Precious they stay, No passing of time, Can take them away.

Always remembered by Hugh, Ruth and Jenni.

MOORE Mary (11th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Mary, late of Carrenterriff, Dysart, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon, who died on January 21st 2016 The Clock of Life ... is wound but once ... And no man has the power To tell just when The hands will stop At late or early hour. Now is the only time you own. Live ... Love ... Toil With a will. Place no faith in tomorrow The clock May then be still. Sadly missed on this her 11th Anniversary by your loving husband George and family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 18th February at 8.15pm in St. Patrick’s Church, Dysart.

On the First Anniversary of Christy’s passing, his sister-inlaw Shirley and her family, Elizabeth, Frankie, Olive, Miriam and Shirleyanne, his brother Michael, sisters Queenie and Kathleen, sister-in-law Margaret, nieces and nephews wish to acknowledge all the people who helped us at that sad time. We as a family wish to express our sincere thanks and deepest gratitude to Kitty, Christy’s niece-in-law who cared for him for many years at home. To his many relatives, beloved neighbours and friends who came to visit him at home in his final years, again we thank you. To all our neighbours and friends that called to the house to help us, to all the wonderful people that organised food, parking and many other jobs making those days at home easier for us. To Mai and Eileen Connolly who set up an altar to Our Lady on Christy’s final day in Castlestrange, it was a beautiful tribute. To Kevin Kelly, Creggs who organised the Guard of Honour from the Knock Stewards his friends for many years who travelled long distances, we are so very grateful, and know he would have been very proud. We are grateful for the wonderful medical care Christy received from Dr. John Keenan, Dr. Claire Quinn and to McGuinness’ Pharmacy for all their help and understanding. Thank you to Fr. Kazimir, Fr. Eugene McLoughlin and Fr. Norman Davitt for the beautiful Funeral Mass ceremony and to Johnny and Leonie Gallagher and Danny his grandnephew for the beautiful music and songs. To the gravediggers who prepared his final resting place with such care and attention, and to Tom and Pat Smyth, Undertakers for their help and professionalism. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, a mass at Knock Shrine has been offered for your intentions. First Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 18th February at 7pm in Athleague Church.

DOWDALL Mrs. Agnes M M.I.A.V.I. 23rd February 1989 In loving memory of a great mother and grandmother Never to be forgotten Always remembered with love and affection by her family. Masses offered.

FALLON Ollie Kilcash, Rahara (10th Anniversary)

TANSEY (Nee Glynn) Kathleen Caltraduff, Ballyforan Who died on February 16th 2016

In loving memory of Ollie, who died on February 16th 2007 A shadow walks beside us, Forever by our side Always there to guide us Ever since the day you died. It’s hard to see tomorrow When someone you love is gone, It’s harder still to realise That life must still go on. So always stay beside us It’s nice to know you’re there Thanks for all the memories and the times we loved and shared. Your memory is our keepsake With which we’ll never part God has you in His keeping We love you in our hearts.

Always loved and sadly missed by your wife Marion, daughter Olivia, son Enda, son-in-law Aidan, grandchildren Ethan, Emma and Alisha. Anniversary Mass in Knockcroghery Church on Friday 17th of February at 7pm.

GORMLEY Peter and Kathleen Cloontymullen, Roscommon (16th and 36th Anniversaries) Your names are often mentioned Our thoughts are with you still You have never been forgotten And by us you never will.

Sadly missed by Catherine, Tom, Martin, Conor, Ryan, Saoirse and Clodagh. Anniversary Mass in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Derrane on Saturday 18th February at 7pm.

On the First Anniversary of our loving mother, Kathleen’s death, we wish to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to our friends and neighbours who visited our home, attended the wake and Funeral Mass. Many whom having travelled long distances. Thanks to Fr. Francis and Fr. Gerry Sweeney for a very meaningful Mass. Thanks to Mike Keenan Soloist. Thank you to Michael Dempsey for his professionalism in organising the funeral. Our thanks to Maureen Kenny for providing refreshments after the removal and burial and thanks to friends and neighbours who helped in Dysart Community Centre. Many thanks to the gravediggers who prepared Kathleen’s final resting place with great attention to detail and tradition. We also extend our deepest gratitude to the Nightingale Nursing Home for their excellent care of Kathleen. Thanks to Dr Martin Daly and his team for his care and kindness to Kathleen over the years. Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Ballyforan on Saturday February 18th at 10.30am.

WEBB John St. Patrick’s Street, Castlerea In loving memory of John, who died 14th February 2016 R.I.P. (1st Anniversary) As each day dawns We think of you; As each night falls We pray for you; And throughout our lives No matter where; In our hearts You are always there.

Lovingly remembered by all his family. Anniversary Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Castlerea on Saturday 25th February at 8pm.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

FamilyNotices/News

SportExtra

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND ANNIVERSARIES BEIRNE Anthony J.

CONNOLLY Kenneth

O’BRIEN Paul

(4th Anniversary)

R.I.P. 19th February 1998 Roscommon

Millltown, Kiltoom Paul’s family would like to ex-

In loving memory of Anthony J. Beirne, Bridge Street, Strokestown, who died 19th February 2013 R.I.P. Our hearts still ache with sadness, Our secret tears still flow For what it meant to lose you No one will ever know.

Always in the thoughts of your loving wife Bridie and family. Anniversary Mass on Monday 20th February at 7.30pm in the Parish Church.

BRENNAN Claire (3rd Anniversary)

In loving memory of Claire, Lisgobbin, Roscommon, who died on 4th March 2014 Softly the leaves of memory fall, Gently we gather and treasure them all.

Lovingly remembered by her husband Sean, daughters Lorraine and Alma, sons John and Gary, granddaughter Laura, John’s partner Jannette, brothers, sisters, relatives and friends. Anniversary Mass on Sunday February 19th at 11.30am in Strokestown Parish Church

19th Anniversary of our darling son and brother Kenny A tribute of love Kenny is all there is left No hug, no kiss, no smile just flowers on your grave, A candle lit so bright to reflect your gently nature, Your beautiful ways and your special smile. Three little words Kenny “forget me not” they don’t say much, but mean a lot. Forget you Kenny, we never will because in our hearts we keep you still, No matter how we spend our days, no matter what we do You are with us night and day though we cannot see you In our hearts you always stay. for you had a special love Death cannot take away.

Tonebane, Fourmilehouse, Co. Roscommon (8th Anniversary)

In loving memory of my dear husband John Your life touched so many others, And will be remembered forever more, To leave the world a better place Than it had been before.

Sadly missed and always remembered by his wife Mae, family and friends. Masses offered.

CONNOLLY Michael Bushy Park, Mount Talbot (4th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Mick, who passed away on the 15th January 2013 To live in the hearts of those we love is not to die.

Sadly missed by his wife Eileen and family. Anniversary Mass is at 7pm on Saturday 18th February in the Church of the Good Shephard, Four Roads.

KENNY Eamon

BRENNAN John R.I.P. Fairfield, Creggs, Co. Galway 4th Anniversary 23rd February 2017

press our sincere gratitude to our extended family, relatives and friends and our many kind neighbours who showed such love and support to us at the time of Paul’s death. Sincere thanks to all who travelled to be with us while Paul lay in repose at his home. attended his Funeral Mass and sent Mass Cards and letters of sympathy. Special thanks to Rev. Fr. Hugh Lee CC Curraghboy, Fr. John Cullen PP Roscommon. Fr. Sean Beirne Hospital Chaplin and to Deacon Willie Gacquin. Thanks also to the Doctors, Sisters, Nurses and Carers at Roscommon County Hospital and the Sacred Heart Home for their devoted care to Paul. We express a sincere word of thanks to the many kind neighbours and friends who visited Paul and spent time with him so often while he was in the Hospital Home. Thanks to the Undertakers Enda McHugh and Donie Hamrock and to our many kind neighbours who prepared Paul’s final resting place. Holy Mass will be offered for your intentions.

We miss you so much, always in our hearts. Sleep tight Darling Mum, Dad, Alex and family. XXX

MULLARKEY Christina (Chrissie)

In loving memory of Chrissie, who died on the 8th of February 2009 R.I.P. Will those who think of her today A little prayer to Jesus say. Quietly today your memory is kept No need for words We will never forget Our thoughts go back As they always do We treasure the memories We have of you.

Always in our thoughts and sadly missed by her family and friends. Anniversary Mass will be offered for Christina, John and deceased members of the Mullarkey family on Sunday 19th February 2017 in St. Patrick’s Church, Ballinaheglish at 11am.

Horses for Courses

by Tom Red

Cloverhill, Roscommon

In loving memory of Eamon Kenny, who died on February 13th 2005 Quietly today your memory is kept, No need for words, We will never forget, No longer in our lives to share, But in our hearts you are always there.

Always remembered by your loving wife Pauline and family and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 18th of February in Cloverhill Church at 12 noon.

Mega Fortune leads Bapaume over the last.

This weekend’s action Racing in Ireland today is at Powerstown Park, Clonmel with first away at 1.50 pm. Tomorrow’s meeting is on the flat at the all-weather in Dundalk with stalls opening for the first at 6 pm, 5. 30pm if the third race divides. Saturday’s racing takes place at Gowran Park, Red Mills Day featuring the Grade 2 Red Mills Chase and the Grade 3 Red Mills Hurdle with the first away at 1.20 pm. On Sunday, racing is at Proudstown Park outside Navan with 3 graded races, two Grade 2, Boyne Hurdle and Ten Up Novice Chase and the Grade 3 Flying Bolt Novice Chase starting at 2.10 pm. The going is heavy at Clonmel today and standard at Dundalk tomorrow night. On Saturday at Gowran the ground is heavy on the chase course and soft on the hurdle course and soft, soft to heavy, at Navan for Sunday. Miss Mardan is entered in the opening M’dn Hurdle at Navan on Sunday who finished 2nd for the Councillor and the Referee two weeks ago at Naas and must have a chance all being well. The winner of the 4-Y-O maiden at Rockfield, Poli Roi, who was sold for €300k is entered in the bumper running in the maroon of Gigginstown.

Racing news Carlingford Lough failed in his bid for a hat-trick in the Gold Cup which went to Jessica Harrington’s Sizing John who won from Empire of Dirt and Don Poli. Jonjo O’Neill’s More Of That came down at the last when in contention. In the Juvenile Hurdle, as pointed out here last week, Mega Fortune turned the tables on Bapaume to win at 9/2 by 3½l. In the Deloitte Novice Hurdle, Patrick Mullins

rode Bacardys for his father to win by ¾l from stablemate Bunk Off Early with Brelade 2¼l back in 3rd. In the 4th Grade 1 on the card, the Flogas Novice Chase Noel Meade’s Disko prevailed by 1 ¾ l and 6l from Our Duke and Banko Des Flos.

Cheltenham Watch The run of ill luck that started with death of Vautour, injuries to Faugheen, Annie Power and Min continued for WP Mullins and Rich Ricci last week with dual bumper winner Getabird, favourite for the Champion Bumper, probably missing the rest of the season. Twenty-nine horses stand their ground in the Gold Cup including the Colin Tizzard trained quartet of Thistlecrack, Native River, Cue Card and Theatre Guide. The latter is the only horse out of the leading 5 in the ante post betting. There is nearly half the field trained in Ireland, 14, headed by Djakadam There were 8 scratched from the Queen Mother Champion Chase leaving 20 possible runners, 8 of which are Irish trained headed by 1/3 shot Douvan. 34 stand in the Ryanair Chase, 14 from this part of the world with Sizing John is still in the race, keeping his options open. Douvan and Un De Sceau share the market lead at 5/2 and 3/1 respectively. As expected, Willie Mullins trained Annie Power and Faugheen are out of the Champion Hurdle with 19 possibles with Vroum Vroum Mag the sole Mullins/Rich Ricci horse out of the 8 Irish trained left in. The Stayers’ Hurdle has 36 remaining and there are 39 left in the OLBG Mares’ Hurdle.

General news There are 109 in Grand National of which 37 are Irish trained. Gor-

don Elliott’s Outlander, winner of the Lexus, has been allotted 11st 10lb, top weight for the race. It is 10 years since Elliott burst into the limelight after Silver Birch won National glory and he has a formidable hand of 14 entries in total, more than any other trainer. Curraghboy based Adrian Joyce made a very successful cross channel raid this week training Times In Anatefka to win under Martin Harley at Wolverhampton last Monday. The 7-Y-O filly is owned by Tom Kelly. The same connections did not have the same luck with Ken’s Sam at Newcastle on Tuesday when the 4-Y-O finished down the field. However, the connections combined again yesterday to complete a quick double with Times In Anatefka, the mare winning again in Wolverhampton. Well done Adrian and Tommy. Former jump jockey John Shortt passed away on Monday at the age of 53 after a long battle with cancer. John enjoyed an association with Jessica Harrington for whom he enjoyed success on Space Trucker in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle, and on Dance Beat in the Champion Novice Hurdle at the Punchestown Festival. He also won the Kilbegnet Chase at Lenabane on Dance Beat in 1996. He retired in 1998 having rode over 340 winners. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.

Point to Point view No action in the north this weekend and Sunday sees 3 meetings in the south, the first at Kildorrery near Mallow in Co. Cork, in Co. Wicklow at Tinahely and at Cragmore between Pallaskenry and Foynes in Co. Limerick. The first two are off at 1 pm with Cragmore ½ an hour later at 1.30 pm.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

SportsPeople

Game of inches ...

Rossies face uphill battle for survival Mark Anthony McGinley saves Ronan Stackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s late attempt at goal as Donegal narrowly defeated Roscommon last Sunday in the Allianz NFL Division One match at Dr Hyde Park. Full report and reaction inside. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

SportsPeople

SICK AS AROSCOMMON PARROT/OVER THE MOON & DISTRICT LEAGUE NEWS Former Harps player signs for Dundalk

Soccer Results T P Brennan Connacht Cup Round One Castlerea Celtic w/o Westport United Ballymote Celtic w/o Brazukas Ballinasloe Town 5 West Coast United 0 Corrib Rangers 5 Kilkerrin United 0 Ballyheane 1 Cloonfad United 2 AET Shiven Rovers 4 Tuam Celtic 2 Ballymoe FC 2 St. John’s Athletic 2 (Ballymoe won 5-4 on penalties) Dunmore Town 1 Straide/Foxford United 4 Manor Rangers w/o Glen Celtic Dysart FC 1 Castlebar Celtic 5 Skyvalley Rovers 0 Moore United 4 Boyle Celtic 3 Manulla 2 T P Brennan Connacht Shield Round One Dynamo Blues 6 Castlerea Celtic 3 Shiven Rovers B 4 Mulranny United 5 Dynamo Blues 2 Loughglynn United 0 Castlebar Celtic B w/o Strokestown United Moylough ’79 0 Lough Harps 2 Cam Celtic 3 Kinvarra United 1 Ballinagare United 1 Cloonfad United B 5 Dunmore Town B 0 Moy Villa 2

Congratulations and best wishes to young Carlton Ubaezuonu, who has signed his first professional contract for Irish champions Dundalk FC. Carlton is a product of the Lough Harps youth set-up and had captained the club at U-15 and U-16 before joining Dundalk U-19s.

Boyle Celtic face Waterford trip

Pictured are club sponsors, Jackie Connaughton (The Grove Lounge) and Kevin Brogan (Brogan Tractors), presenting tops and gear bags to Sean Collins and John Connaughton of Ballymoe FC.

Sligo/Leitrim Superleague side, Boyle Celtic, face a tough trip to Waterford to face Carrick United in the last eight of the FAI Junior Cup. Carrick United boast a fine pedigree and lifted the FAI Junior Cup back in 2008. Celtic will face the former holders over the weekend of the 11th and 12th of March. Elsewhere in the quarter-finals, Killarney Celtic (Kerry) entertain Janesboro FC (Limerick), Kilmallock United (Limerick) travel to Evergreen FC (Kilkenny) and Peake Villa (Tipperary) host tournament favourites and current holders, Sheriff YC (Dublin).

Dooner’s weekend predictions

ack to some sort of

normality this week and really looking forward to the Oscar Traynor match in Lecarrow on Saturday evening. Hopefully these predictions are slightly better than that Champions League accumulator I had during the week…

Friday, 17th February The Herald Challenge Cup Round 1 Shiven Rovers B v Strokestown United. 8 pm

Creggs RFC Report

It’s difficult to see how the home side will cope with the Division Two league leaders. United should avoid a cup upset. Prediction: Strokestown United

Saturday, February 18th FAI Oscar Traynor Trophy Round of 16 Roscommon & District League v Cavan/Monaghan League. 6.30 pm This will be a tough test for the RDFL. The visitors have beaten the Donegal League and the

Sligo/Leitrim League en route to the last 16. The home side have been just as impressive, however, and they can take heart in the fact that the Cavan/Monaghan League have yet to keep a clean sheet in this competition. Their most recent game saw them ship seven goals away to the Inishowen League. If the RDFL are going to progress they will have to battle for 90+ minutes, which they have shown themselves capable of already this season. Prediction: Roscommon & District League. Narrowly.

Sunday, February 19th The Herald Challenge Cup Round 1 (2 pm) Ballinagare FC v CP Ajax This should be fairly straightforward for the visitors. Prediction: CP Ajax Moylough ’79 v Dunmore Town Could be plenty of goals in this one and the visitors should progress. Prediction: Dunmore Town Castlerea Celtic B v Hodson Bay Athletic We’ve gone with all away wins

so far in the Challenge Cup and this should be no different. Prediction: Hodson Bay Athletic Moore United B v Kilkerrin United A tricky test for Kilkerrin but they should have enough. Prediction: Kilkerrin United Glen Celtic v Dunmore Town B This will be an interesting tie and could be closer than most people think. Prediction: Dunmore Town B Norio’s Takeaway Division One Loughglynn United v Balli-

nasloe Town B. 2 pm The home side claimed the points when these two met earlier in the season. Ballinasloe’s form has improved since then while Loughglynn have really struggled. Prediction: Ballinasloe Town B Killeen Sportsgrounds Division Two Cloonfad United B v Cam Celtic On recent form Cam Celtic should have enough to claim all three points. I wouldn’t be putting my life savings on it, however. Prediction: Cam Celtic

THE GAIN LINE

A case of Déjà vu at The Green! U-18 League: Creggs find themselves in the very unusual position of having to replay their U-18.5A league semi-final this weekend. Creggs had beaten Galwegians RFC two weeks ago in the semi-final but that result was declared void by the Connacht branch after an appeal by Ballina RFC to have Galwegians removed from the league. Ballina then replaced Galwegians in the semi-final so the Creggs lads will have to win a second semi-final to actually make the final of the Connacht U-18.5A league. Obviously this is a frustrating scenario considering Creggs are entirely blameless themselves. The semifinal against Ballina will take place in Creggs this Saturday at 2 pm. All sup-

port would be appreciated as Creggs attempt to make the final for the second time! Connacht Junior 2 League: Connemara 6 Creggs 5. Creggs made the long journey to Clifden for Sunday’s Junior 2 League fixture and led into the closing stages only to have victory snatched away by a last minute penalty. This was another very encouraging display by Creggs, following the recent victory over Tuam. Connemara opened the scoring with a well-struck penalty after 12 minutes but Creggs hit back with a fine try by full-back, Aidan Geraghty, to lead by 5-3 at half-time. Creggs should have been further ahead but missed three penalties and also a couple of try

scoring opportunities went astray. Mark Hester was a dominant influence in the back row and he was sorely missed when injury forced his departure shortly after half-time. However, Creggs continued to carry the fight to Connemara and looked likely winners until a late surge by the home team yielded the decisive penalty as the game edged deep into added time. Creggs have a home game against Galwegians this weekend and this presents an ideal opportunity to gain further momentum before the start of the Ardnacregg Cup. Creggs: Aidan Geraghty, Thomas Greene, Barry Egan, David Feeney, Philip Leech, Tommy Devine, Stephen Crehan, Ken

The Creggs U-18.5s team which beat Galwegians in the league semi-final and must now repeat the feat against Ballina this weekend.

Loughrey, Enda Garvey, Eoghan Cahill, Kevin Raftery, Trevor Nee, Damien Nolan, Graham Curran, Mark Hester, David Hoare,

Brian Coady, Enda Tully, Rory O’Donoghue, Stephen Kilcommons. Mini Rugby: Creggs will play a blitz in Buccaneers,

Athlone next Saturday. Kick-off is at 11 am, players to be there at 10.40 am. Youth Rugby: Creggs U13s play Buccaneers RFC

in Creggs at 12 pm on Saturday. The U-16s play Buccaneers in Athlone Sunday at 12 pm.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

SPORTING WORLD WITH DAN DOONER

@dan_dooner

I may have jinxed the Rossies! THE LEAD STORY Dan Dooner Last Sunday, as Canon Liam Devine sprinkled the new pitch with Holy water, I couldn’t help thinking it was me he should have been exorcising. You see, following last Sunday’s heart-breaking defeat to Donegal I have come to the, some would say belated, conclusion that I am a massive jinx on Roscommon GAA. I have rushed to Carrick, been heckled by Mayo fans, stood in the rain in Salthill and felt the icy chill in the Hyde, but…I have yet to witness a Roscommon victory in the flesh! This is despite attending plenty of matches since I started working here in 2015. Don’t believe me? I’ll name some of them: Mayo in the U-21 Connacht Final, Mona-

ghan in Kiltoom, Mayo in the Hyde, Dublin in Carrick, Galway in Salthill, Galway in Castlebar, Donegal in the Hyde along with others across the different age groups. In fairness, the signs were ominous away from Dr Hyde Park last weekend…on Saturday evening I walked in on the last few minutes of the Wales v England rugby match, just before England’s late try. I know, I know, I’m sorry! It gets worse…since 2008 the only sporting win of any significance I have seen in the flesh was Ireland’s 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina at the Aviva, and I think I know why… Let me take you back to May 2008 and a rainy night in Moscow. John Terry was about to take his fateful penalty against Manchester United. John Terry winning the European Cup for Chelsea fifty years after Munich…unthinkable! I had to do something. I murmured a silent vow that

The week in numbers

2 13

Connacht Creggs RFC will play the l for the na i-fi U-18.5 League sem despite nd eke we s thi e tim second ns. gia lwe Ga already beating s the full Why? The Gain Line ha story! points Connacht were thirteen es last Blu ff rdi down against Ca ck, with ba t gh fou ey Th . nd weeke drop ran allo a late Tiernan O’H -13 19 a tch sna to ng lpi he goal victory.

only While Jesus of Nazareth Jesus r, ove rec to took three days up to for t ou be y ma y Cit n of Ma ury. inj t foo a h wit three months nted: me com ro ue Ag gio Ser “Gutted for you pal.”

Canon Liam Devine blesses the Dr Hyde Park pitch prior to throw-in, also pictured are Brian Carroll, Roscommon County Board Secretary; Seamus Sweeney, Roscommon County Board Chairman; Hugh Lynn, Roscommon County Board PRO; John Corcoran, Roscommon County Board and Pat Teehan, GAA Infrastructure Committee. Picture: Andrew Fox

if, somehow, Terry was to make a complete mess of his kick and United were to win, I would accept a life of watching sporting defeat from then on.

We’ve reached the point in the story where you may be expecting some sort of happy ending. Alas, there are no happy endings here, the story only gets worse…

People’s Champion of the Week

Michael and Liam narrowly lost out Michael and Liam Egan (Roscommon Community College) narrowly lost out to Ciaran Cooney and Jamie Maher (Castlecomer CS) in their Intermediate Doubles semi-final on a score of 6-15, 15-9, 12-15. Rikki O’Gara beat Kildare’s Niall O’Connor 12-21, 21-7, 2114 in the 40x20 Mens Open First Round in Multyfarnham last Saturday. The standout result of the weekend was Lisacul’s Sean Jennings’ defeat of reigning Connacht Junior champion Seamus Conneelly in his home court of Moycullen. Jennings dominated the match 21-12, 21-8. Lisacul’s Gordon Nolan and Curraghboy’s Ger Walshe en-

mob, the only other alternative is to get some of that Holy water! On a more positive note, I have put my name down for a Mayo season ticket for next year!

Sporting week on Tweet Street Trevor Naughton @trevornaughton Wait for @dessiedolan on Sunday Game. Laois left it wide open in defence, look at the space, you’d fit my utility room! #roomtoimprove (Dessie Dolan’s utility room could probably host a Laois match!)

Fiona Tully once again dominated in the court last weekend, as she retained her 40x20 All-Ireland Second Level Colleges title. Playing in Kingscourt, Co. Cavan, Fiona (Convent of Mercy) beat Catriona Millane from Laurel Hill College, Limerick, 15-8, 15-9.

Donnchadh Boyle @depboyle Fame and Glory died of a heart attack while covering a mare. Worse ways to go etc etc (I had to Google what he meant…)

Malachy Clerkin @MalachyClerkin Full-time: Monaghan 0-7 Cavan 0-7. “Congratulations to both teams on a fine game of football,” lied the tannoy announcer. (Malachy had fun with that report.)

The sporting brief Handball

As it stands, I have been assigned to cover the Mayo game in Castlebar on Saturday week and barring the intervention of some sort of pitchfork wielding

joyed wins over Jonathon Conroy and Jimmy Connaughton in their respective semi-finals. St. Coman’s Laura Mannion bravely battled through tonsillitis during her Ladies Junior ‘B’ match with Williamstown’s Janet Flanagan, going down in two games. There was only disappointment for Roscommon at the Connacht finals of Cumann na mBunscoil as the Rossie competitors failed to fire.

Darts

Final round! An Bothar Rua were finally beaten in the Roscommon Darts League, going down 5-4 against Dalton’s last weekend. Elsewhere, The Forge beat Creaton’s 6-3 and McDermott’s overcame Flanagan’s 5-4.

This weekend sees the final round with An Bothar Rua taking on The Forge, Dalton’s entertaining McDermott’s and The Hollywood Bar heading to Flanagan’s.

Golf

Feeley big win! We begin this week’s golf tour in Roscommon where Brian Feeley won last Sunday’s 16-hole competition with 36 points. Eric Godfrey was runner-up on 35. Meanwhile, John Carr and Michael Healy will take on Clement McCormack and James Quigley in the final of the Winter League. Michael Sharkey won the men’s seniors competition, while Joan Moran took the ladies’ competition. The ladies’ 9-hole competition was won by Mary O’Connor.

In Castlerea, the ladies have been braving the recent cold weather and all for a good cause too: the current competition is in aid of Breast Cancer Research. To Athlone next where the ladies recently enjoyed a scramble ahead of the upcoming White Elephant Competition on Saturday, 18th and Tuesday, 21st. Meanwhile, Athlone’s most recent winners include: P J Martin, J Burns, V Connaire and Margaret Byrne. Bernie Watson won the 97 club competition and also played a starring role in the fun team scramble with two Kathleens (McDonnell and Fitzgerald). Finally for this week, we go to Carrick where they’re gearing up for the captain’s drive-in on Sunday, 26th. Anthony Noone and Noeleen Moffatt will be your hosts as they tee-off at 1 pm.

In the sporting diary .... Kick start a coaching career! The FAI and Roscommon & District League are running an FAI Kick Start 2/PDP 2 Coaching Course at RDFL grounds in Lecarrow on Saturday, 25th and Sunday, 26th. The course runs both days from 10 am till 6.30 pm. The cost of the course is €75 and is designed to assist coaches in the development of players aged 912 years with all aspects of their game. All participants must have completed their KS1 Course before booking and all bookings must be must be completed online at fainet.ie.

10k Cycle in Ballaghaderreen Ballaghaderreen Cycling Club (BCC) welcomes cyclists on Sunday, March 5th for a 10k leisure cycle. Starting from the Cathedral car park at 10.30 am. Open to all, beginners especially welcome, easy pace and route. Come along for a spin! (Helmets are compulsory)

Roscommon set for Donlon Cup The annual Pete Donlon Cup between Roscommon and Ballymahon & District Darts League takes place this Sunday (19th) in Clarke’s Bar in Lanesboro. The match begins at 2 pm and all support is appreciated.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

SportsPeople

Pictured at the recent Kilmore GAA dinner dance were, back row (L-r): Gerry Fitzmaurice, Trevor Hunt, Damien Devaney, Kevin Caslin, JJ McWeeney, Mark Connellan, Jamie Sharkey, Brian Carroll. Front row (L-r): Gerry Tiernan, Nicoal Craughwell, Carmelita Caslin, Aogan O Fearghail, Jennifer Connellan, Clare Connellan, Tommie Kenoy, Teresa Kenoy.

Kilmore GAA dinner dance

Pictured at the recent Kilmore GAA Dinner Dance were Brian Carroll, Secretary Roscommon GAA; Aogan O Fearghail, Uachtarain CLG; Gerry Garvey and Gerry Fitzmaurice.

The Donohue family, Kilmore pictured at the recent Kilmore GAA dinner dance, (L-r): Ben, Mary, John, Bernard and Daniel.

Michael Glavey’s GAA Dinner Dance Pictured (right)at the Michael Glavey’s dinner dance recently is the Junior ladies team which was crowned Junior County winners in 2016 with managers and special guest Cora Staunton.

Pictured at the Michael Glavey’s dinner dance recently is Rona Burke being presented with Junior Player of the Year by special guests Cora Staunton and Marie McAleer.

Pictured at the Michael Glavey’s dinner dance recently is the Hall of Fame recipient Joe Garvey being presented with his award by special guest Cora Staunton and Club Chairman Gerry Coffey.

Pictured at the Michael Glavey’s dinner dance recently is Caoileann Fitzmaurice being presented with Senior Player of the Year by manager James Hussey, special guest Cora Staunton and Club Chairman Gerry Coffey.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

@SeamusDuke

Seamus Duke ON SPORT

Homecoming heartbreak for Roscommon

Despite the heartbreaking loss, it was great to be back ‘home’ in Dr Hyde Park last Sunday. There was a big crowd for the re-opening but I have to say that it was probably the coldest that I have ever been at Dr Hyde Park and that’s saying something. There was universal praise for the new pitch and I got a chance to walk it an hour before the match started and it is a fantastic surface and the grass was so short that it would have been very suitable for hurling too. Despite the bad weather it was a cracking game of football and Roscommon were desperately unlucky that they didn’t get at least a draw out of the game. It looked like Ronan Stack was going to get a winning score at one end and then Donegal went downfield and got one at the other end to win the game. I thought that Michael Murphy was the difference between the teams. What a player he is. He controlled the game from the start. It was amaz-

ing also to report that he was still out on the field a half an hour after the final whistle signing autographs and chatting to people and that was on one of the coldest days of the year too. He is a real star for sure. It was not a good result for Roscommon but we were very competitive once again and that was the aim at the start of this league campaign. Whether it will be good enough to save us from relegation is another matter. Mayo in Castlebar next and then it’s Kerry at home. Once again these are great games to be playing in and the players are getting mighty experience. Talking about experience, it is very regrettable that Niall Daly is not involved in the panel. We can ill afford to do without players of his experience and ability. I hope that he rejoins the panel and has another go. We have lost enough players over the past year without more leaving in the middle of a league campaign. One memory that we will have

Club football returns this weekend The Roscommon club football leagues begin this weekend and as usual there are many new team managers who will be anxious to get off to a good start. The county players are available to their clubs so there should be good games in all divisions. The County Board have done very well in recent years to run off the leagues very promptly and there will be some interesting early season indicators this weekend. In Division One, Roscommon Gaels v Western Gaels and Elphin v Strrokestown look the highlights.

From the Internet Golf for the Future? Golf Sixes: European Tour announce six-hole team event with music and fireworks. European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley hopes the new event will “appeal to the millennial demographic”. The European Tour has announced a six-hole team event called GolfSixes, in its attempts to “modernise” and “broaden the appeal” of the sport. Two-man teams from 16 different nations will compete at St. Albans’ Centurion Club on 6-7 May for a prize fund of one million euros (£852,000). There will be amphitheatre-style stands around the tees plus music and pyrotechnics. Players will wear microphones and be encouraged to interact with fans. Tour Chief Executive, Keith Pelley, said the Tour was keen to “emulate” the Ryder Cup atmosphere. “We have said for some time that golf needs to modernise and introducing innovative new formats is a major part of achieving that. We want to broaden the appeal of our sport to the millennial demographic and I think this format will do that,” he said. (BBC Sport online)

from last Sunday was Conor Devaney’s goal which was an screamer from 20 yards out into the top corner. I have seen him do that a few times for Kilbride over the years and this was up there with the best of them. This loss means that it is now a huge task to stay in this division. But it’s not over yet. It is so notoriously hard to predict results in the league that anything could happen yet. If we were to go to Castlebar and win on Saturday week, last Sunday will be quickly forgotten. Stranger things have happened. Elsewhere, there were some very strange results. Is it any wonder that Paddy Power goes from strength to strength! Dublin were lucky to get a draw against Tyrone while Mayo went to previously rampant Kerry and won! In terms of Connacht teams, Galway are going along nicely as are Sligo, who are now promotion candidates in Division Three. Early days yet though.

Enda Smith claims possession for Roscommon during last Sunday’s Allianz NFL Division One defeat to Donegal. Pic: Andrew Fox

Hurlers face uphill battle

Slaughtneil shocked Dublin kingpins St. Vincent’s to book a place in the All-Ireland club final.

Underdogs upset the odds in semi-ﬁnals Last Saturday’s All-Ireland club football semi-finals saw both outsiders win and it was surprising that Corofin were so well beaten. Dr Crokes look a really good team. Will Colm ‘Gooch’ Cooper win a long

awaited and cherished AllIreland club medal this year? Time will tell. But it was in the other game that we saw the sporting performance of the weekend as Slaughtneil beat St. Vincent’s.

In the run up to the game everyone would have predicted that Diarmuid Connolly would be the main man for Vincent’s. However, it didn’t turn out that way and in fact Christy McKaigue, who was actu-

ally marking Connolly, not only held him to one point but he scored four mighty points from play himself. It was a sensational individual performance and Slaughtneil thoroughly deserved to win.

Roscommon hurlers have found the step up in the league a tough one to bridge after last weekend’s game against Wicklow at Athleague and it doesn’t get any easier. The trip to Ballycran this weekend is a long one and Down are traditionally a hard side to beat on their home patch. It is already going to be an uphill struggle for Johnny Kelly and his side and we wish them well on Sunday in round 2.

Ireland return to winning ways

England and Wales played out a classic in last weekend’s RBS Six Nations.

The rugby was very enjoyable at the weekend. Ireland hammered Italy but they discovered their focus a week too late. The real test will come against France in Dublin on Saturday week. I was glad for Paddy Jackson that he played so well. He has been in the shadow of Johnny Sexton for the past five years and he has bided his time. Joe Schmidt will find it hard to leave Jackson off the team for the game against France even if Sexton is fully fit.

The game between England and Wales was one of the finest games of rugby I have seen in years. The outcome was in doubt until the final couple of minutes. England remain unbeaten but anyone who would write off Wales would be mistaken. They will be a factor in this championship before it’s over. Hats off to the Irish women’s team who got their bonus point against Italy with the last play of the game last weekend.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

Allianz NFL Division One: Donegal 0-16 Roscommon 2-9

Composed Donegal edge The Verdict Seamus Duke The task of remaining in Division One for Roscommon footballers, already a tough proposition, has now become an even harder task following this heart-breaking one point defeat at the hands of Donegal in this thrilling game played on the magnificent new Dr Hyde Park pitch last Sunday.

A point from Eoin McHugh in the third minute of injurytime broke the hearts of the big Roscommon following in the crowd of 7,000 who came to see the match on a bitterly cold day. That winning point was even harder to stomach for the Rossies as just seconds earlier, Ronan Stack was through on

Teams & scorers Donegal: Mark Anthony McGinley; Caolan Ward, Neil McGee, Paddy McGrath; Ryan McHugh, Eoin Ban Gallagher (0-1), Paul Brennan; Jason McGee, Michael Carroll (0-1); Ciaran Thompson (0-3), Martin O’Reilly (0-3), Eoin McHugh (0-3); Paddy McBrearty (0-2, 1 free), Michael Murphy (0-2, 2 frees), Jamie Brennan (0-1). Subs used: Mark McHugh for Paul Brennan (17), Frank McGlynn for Mark McHugh (h/t), Darach O’Connor for McBrearty (50), Conor Gibbons for J Brennan (64), Eamon Doherty for McGee (69), Hugh McFadden for O’Connor (73, black card). Roscommon: Colm Lavin; Seanie McDermott, Tom Featherston, Niall McInerney; Ronan Stack, Sean Mullooly, John McManus; Kevin Higgins (0-2), Tadgh O’Rourke; Shane Killoran, Ciaráin Murtagh (1-4, 2 frees), Enda Smith (0-2); Donie Smith, Fintan Cregg (0-1), Conor Devaney (1-0). Subs used: Tom Corcoran for Higgins (48), Niall Kilroy for Cregg (50), Cian Connolly for D Smith (58), Gary Patterson for Murtagh (67). Match referee Derek O’Mahony awards Donegal a free out after Conor Devaney puts Eoghan Bán Gallagher out of the end line with a shoulder tackle. Picture: Andrew Fox

Referee: Derek O’Mahoney (Tipperary)

the Donegal goal but his low shot was smothered when a point might have been the better option. Roscommon manager, Kevin McStay, felt his side deserved more: “It’s a tough one to take to have put so much into the game and get nothing. I can’t fault anyone on our side. We put in an outrageous effort. “At half-time it wasn’t looking good but the effort that the players put in during the second half was tremendous and we had the winning of it at the death but that’s the way it goes,” he said. His counterpart, Rory Gallagher praised his players’ “never-say-die attitude” as they came out on top in what was a riveting contest. However, it will not be much consolation to Roscommon players and management this week that this was a fine game of football and that Roscommon fought like tigers, particularly in the second half. In the end, a lack of experience and composure was a major factor in this defeat. But there was still much to admire about this Roscommon performance. It’s a steep learning curve for this young team but with several

very tough games to come, a relegation dogfight now looks inevitable. Defensively, Roscommon coped fairly well with the Donegal threat but once again, turnovers were costly. Up front, Roscommon created plenty of chances but a little more composure will reap dividends in the games to come. Afterwards, Kevin McStay said that he was absolutely convinced that his team were well capable of playing at the highest level and if the team are to stay in Division One they will have to show the fight that we saw in the second half on Sunday last. Playing with the icy cold wind blowing towards the town goal in the opening half, a lead of three points at half-time looked as if it would not be enough. But the players dug in during the second half and were desperately unlucky not to have got at least a draw. Seanie McDermott and Niall McInerney were excellent in the full-back line while John McManus turned in his best display in a Roscommon jersey in the half-back line. At midfield, Tadgh O’Rourke and Kevin Higgins had their moments but Donegal generally held

The Roscommon players enter the field of play. Picture: Andrew Fox

TIME ADDED ON…

Match Day Tweets

Media watch

Roscommon GAA @RoscommonGAA

Declan Bonner (Former Donegal player and Highland Radio analyst)

Welcome to the Hyde we’re nearly ready to start #rosgaa (A long overdue welcome message from Dr Hyde Park.)

Roz Mc Donnell @RozMacD @RoscommonGAA what are the changes? The PA system is shocking!! (A lot done, a lot more to do!)

Roscommon GAA @RoscommonGAA @RozMacD There are none on Roscommon team. (Ok, as long as there are no follow up questions…)

Roz Mc Donnell @RozMacD @RoscommonGAA cheers!! Is Nial Daly on the bench (…Feck it!)

Barry Molloy presents the match ball to referee Derek O’Mahony. Picture: Andrew Fox

“It was a very exciting game and on the balance of play I think a draw might have been a fair result. Both sides had chances no doubt. Roscommon were the better side in the first half and Donegal were better in the second half. Roscommon had a great chance of a goal late on but Donegal got some quality scores in the second half especially from Marty O’Reilly and Eoin McHugh. “Donegal will be very happy to get the win as this was a four pointer no doubt about that and I’d say that Roscommon are very disappointed to lose it. Donegal have Dublin the next day so this will be a huge boost ahead of that game. “We still have some players to come back in and this is a transitional Donegal side and the manager is looking at a lot of the younger lads and there are a few putting their hands up for inclusion. It’s a learning curve for us and its two huge points for Donegal. It’s a young Roscommon team as well and that game will bring them on too.”

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

Allianz NFL Division One: Donegal 0-16 Roscommon 2-9

game of ﬁne margins sway in that sector where the inspirational Michael Murphy dominated. Up front, Enda Smith, Conor Devaney and Fintan Cregg played well and it was a strange decision of take off Cregg who was giving the Donegal defence plenty of problems while he was on the field. Roscommon missed a number of goal chances throughout the game and while it is encouraging to see those chances being made, a little more composure is required. But it is only right that we mention the 66th minute goal from Conor Devaney. The new Dr Hyde Park pitch may have just reopened last Sunday but it is doubtful that there will be a better goal seen at the famous old ground for a long time to come. It was a truly magnificent effort. I know that it is scant consolation given the narrow defeat, but it was a goal fit to grace any game. It is a pity that it was not a forerunner to a famous win. Michael Murphy was a colossus for Donegal (as usual), he patrolled the area from the half-back line to the full-forward line and he seldom took the wrong option. Ciaran Thompson (first half), Martin O’Reilly,

Eoin McHugh and Ryan McHugh were also prominent for Rory Gallagher’s men. This was a vital win for them. Roscommon now face a very difficult trip to Castlebar to face a rejuvenated Mayo on Saturday week. There are two ways of looking at this clash: Mayo will be under less pressure now that they have gone to The Kingdom and come back with the two points. However, they will be anxious to put down a marker for later in the summer and they will definitely be targeting this clash with Roscommon for another two points. Meanwhile, Roscommon have plenty of positives to take out of this defeat but the reality is that it is another two points gone and now we are going to have to win at least one game on our travels in addition to our two remaining home games now to stay up in Division One. It certainly won’t be easy. The new pitch is a magnificent facility and was praised by all and sundry. It was great to see a big crowd too and despite the Siberian type temperatures, there was an excellent atmosphere and it was a very enjoyable game to watch.

Key Moments Seamus Duke 1st half The sides shared six points in the opening 15 minutes with Michael Murphy (free), Ciaran Thompson and Paddy McBrearty (free) on target for Donegal while Fintan Cregg, Ciaráin Murtagh (free) and Enda Smith were on target for Roscommon. Donegal goalkeeper Mark Anthony McGinley made a good save after 18 minutes following good link-up play from the Smith brothers. In the 23rd minute, Donegal tried a short kick-out but Ciaráin Murtagh intercepted and fed Enda Smith whose effort struck the post but Murtagh followed up to fist the ball to the net. Kevin Higgins blazed a goal chance over the bar in the 25th minute after bursting through the Donegal defence. Michael Murphy completed the first half scoring in the 34th minute with a 25 metre free to leave Donegal just three points behind at the break.

Half-time review

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Thomas Fetherston moves possession forward for Roscommon. Pic: Andrew Fox

Frank McGlynn holds onto possession as he weaves his way through the tackles of Shane Killoran and Thomas Corcoran. Picture: Andrew Fox

The game in quotes

“I have just told the players in the dressing room to put this behind them very quickly because we have proven again today that we are well capable of playing at this level. We just have to get a bit cuter and streetwise and we missed some chances and at this level you have to take them.” – Kevin McStay

“Size was a bit of a problem for us as well and you saw (Michael) Murphy out there today. He is a marvellous player and he is hard to deal with. We are really disappointed I have to say. Turnovers were again a factor and they broke very fast when we gave the ball away.” – Kevin McStay

“Our never-say-die attitude was pleasing today. When you are a manager you want to see your team give absolutely everything and I thought we saw that from Donegal today.” - Rory Gallagher

“We had number of setbacks throughout the game but we ground out a very important win” – Rory Gallagher

“Onwards and upwards and it’s Mayo away in two weeks and we will work hard ahead of that. Our fitness levels are improving all the time and we are getting a little bit cuter. These are all serious games and that’s the next one.” – Kevin McStay “I am very satisfied with how we are going. We made some mistakes sure but this is a young team and the way we fought back today, the goal we scored, and the way we took the game to Donegal was a great sign for the future.” – Kevin McStay

DIVISION ONE AT A GLANCE

Stat Attack

Dublin 0-10 Tyrone 1-7

Wides: Donegal 8 (3 first half ), Roscommon 11 (5 first half )

Having been correct in all four predictions the previous week, I got all four wrong last weekend! Dublin’s unbeaten record looked like it was over for long periods at Croke Park against an impressive Tyrone side but Dean Rock’s super free taking saved the day for the Dubs who also missed a penalty.

Mayo 0-15 Kerry 1-10 A super win for Mayo who could have been ten points

down at half-time as Kerry missed at least three clear goal chances. But Mayo came good after the break and with Andy Moran in scintillating form, Stephen Rochford’s men pulled off a great win against all the odds.

Monaghan 0-7 Cavan 0-7

Red cards: Donegal none, Roscommon none. Black cards: Donegal 1 (Darach O’Connor), Roscommon none Yellow cards: Donegal 3 (Jason McGee, Paul Brennan, Michael Murphy), Roscommon 1 (Fintan Cregg) Frees awarded: Donegal 20 (9 first half ) Roscommon 23 (13 first half )

A drab draw at Clones as the neighbours ground it Scores from play: Donegal 0-13 Roscommon 2-7 out. Cavan missed a few late Man of the Match: Michael Murphy (Donegal) chances but Gearoid McKiernan’s point for Cavan with 12 minutes to go settled a Senan Murtagh and Daniel Neary pictured in Dr. Hyde Crowd: 7,000 Park on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox very poor game.

At half-time a three point lead did not look enough and the worrying trend of Donegal being able to break at pace running at the Roscommon defence was something that was on the minds of the Roscommon management and fans at half-time.

2nd half Donegal points from Ciaran Thompson, Eoin Ban Gallagher, Paddy McBrearty, and Jamie Brennan saw the sides level at 1-8 to 0-11 by the 45th minute. Ciaran Thompson was through on goal in the 44th minute but Niall McInerney made a magnificent block to deny Donegal a certain goal. In the 49th minute Conor Devaney fired wide from 15 metres following a brilliant Roscommon move. Four unanswered points from Martin O’Reilly (3) and Eoin McHugh between the 52nd and 62nd minutes Donegal three ahead. Conor Devaney levelled it with a spectacular goal, firing past Mark Anthony McGinley into the top corner from 15 metres. In the third minute of injury-time John McManus off-loaded to Ronan Stack who was in on goal. Stack’s goalbound effort was blocked when a point may have been the better option. Donegal swept downfield and Eoin McHugh pointed from 30 metres to give his side the lead just before the final whistle.

Full-time review Roscommon will be very disappointed to come away from Sunday’s game empty handed following a brave display. The tests will get tougher now and a trip to Castlebar on Saturday week is next on the list.

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

SportsPeople

Kelly’s hurlers humbled by Wicklow Allianz National Hurling League Division 2B WICKLOW

2-17

ROSCOMMON < ROBBIE MCCONN

Roscommon manager Johnny Kelly pictured on the sideline. Picture: Andrew Fox

Roscommon hurlers, under new manager Johnny Kelly, got a rude awakening when they met Wicklow in their first league fixture in Division 2B at a bitterly cold Athleague last Sunday. From the throw-in, Wicklow, with the aid of a strong breeze, went on the attack and they led by 1-7 to 0-0 after only ten minutes, with the impressive Andy O’Brien scoring the goal after four minutes. Roscommon’s first score came after twelve minutes with a well-taken point from Naos Connaughton. Other Roscommon scorers in the first half were Shane Curley and Robbie Fallon, who added three frees. Chris Moorehouse scored Wicklow’s second goal

0-7 from the penalty spot after 20 minutes. Roscommon could never really get going and Wicklow continued to dominate and led at halftime by 2-11 to 0-3. There was an improvement in the Roscommon performance in the second half but it wasn’t helped when Alan Moore got a red card after fifteen minutes. Roscommon introduced a number of subs late on but Wicklow went on to win easily. Best for Roscommon were Jerry Fallon, Pat Nolan, Shane Curley and Robbie Fallon. Meanwhile best for an impressive Wicklow side were Christy Moorehouse who scored 1-7, man of the match Andy O’Brien, and Gerry Connors Roscommon: Jerry Fallon; Allan Moore, David Loughnane, Pat Nolan;

Shane Curley evades the challenge of Gerry Connors. Picture: Andrew Fox

Michael Beirne, Peter Kellehan (Captain), Eamon Flanagan (0-1); Shane Curley (0-1, free), Jason Kilkenny; Adam Finnerty, Ronan O’Meara, Robbie Fallon (0-3, all frees);

Tough camogie league opener for Roscommon Littlewoods Ireland National Camogie League Division 3: Dublin v Roscommon at a Dublin venue on Saturday (TBA) in most counties. We have < SEAMUS DUKE had a few retirements and Roscommon’s Camogie we have a very young team team open their National so a lot of our girls are doing League Division Three exams in college and indeed campaign with a tough doing the Leaving Cert too. away game against Dublin It’s doubtful if we will have this Saturday. It will be a our full team until later on changed Roscommon team in the year. “But we will deal with this year as there have been a couple of retirements, no- what we have and there are tably Annette McGeeney plenty of good young playand there are also a number ers in the county and we will of players unavailable due be working with them. “I would say that Dubto exams and work commitlin and Kerry will be our ments. Roscommon manager Noel strongest opponents in this Finn has been telling People league (Clare and Tyrone Sport that the emphasis will are also in the division). “It was a great achievement be on youth this season. “It’s been a slow start to the to get to an All-Ireland final year but it’s the same story and to a league final over the

Clann win MacNamee award for best website The GAA National Communication and Media Awards winners were announced earlier this week. Clann na nGael GAA Club will take home the 2016 MacNamee award for Best Website. Clann’s website was described as “vibrant and aesthetically pleasing to the eye, the ease with which the user can navigate and locate information is testament to the developer and it shines a positive light of GAA activity within the county both through its content and its layout.” The awards will be presented by Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael, Aogán Ó Fearghail, at a function in Croke Park tomorrow (Friday, 17th). The GAA President offered his congratulations to this year’s winners. He said: “The late Pádraig MacNamee was a man ahead of this times in many ways and it is fitting that these awards should be named in his honour. “More than ever, excellence in the area of communications is of paramount importance and has a major bearing on how are games are projected. “I am delighted to acknowledge that so many of our units, not least those at club level, fully embrace this outlook and utilise technology to further enhance their reach. “I offer my congratulations to all of this year’s winners and hope this recognition not only strengthens their ambitions in this area but inspires others to follow.”

Cathal Kenny, Naos Connaughton (0-1), John Coyne. Subs: Conor Coyle for O’Meara, Warren Boyle for Kenny, Gearoid Egan for Finnerty, Adrian Murphy (0-1) for Fallon, Gary

Fallon for Flanagan. Roscommon will have to improve as their next fixture is a tough one, next Sunday against Down in Ballycran, Co. Down in Round 2.

GAA Fixtures Friday, February 17th Adult Football League Division 3 (Tansey Cup) At Kilbride: Kilbride v Ballinameen. 8 pm Saturday, February 18th Adult Football League Division 1 (O’Rourke Cup) At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels v Western Gaels. 8 pm At Kiltoom: St. Brigid’s v St Croan’s. 8 pm Adult Football League Division 3 (Tansey Cup) At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Elphin. 8 pm Sunday, February 19th

Pictured at the launch of the Littlewoods Ireland Camogie National Leagues in Dublin’s Radisson Blu Hotel were (L-r): Siobhan Flannery, Offaly; Shelly Farrell, Kilkenny; Catherine Neary, President, Camogie Association; Geoff Scully, Managing Director, Littlewoods Ireland; Sarah O’Donovan, Dublin, and Kelley Hopkins, Roscommon. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

past few years in a county with only four clubs and if we were at our strongest we would be a match for anyone in this division. If we could go to Dublin and get a result on Saturday it would

set us up for the year,” he concluded. Roscommon will be one of the favourites for promotion in this division after last year’s heroics. However, this is a very young Ros-

common panel and short a number of players, it will be an achievement to get something out of what looks like a tricky assignment in the capital on Saturday.

Battling CBS bow out of the Connacht Junior championship Connacht Colleges Junior A Semi-Final ST. ATTRACTA’S CS TUBBERCURRY CBS ROSCOMMON A valiant CBS Roscommon team bowed out of the Connacht Junior championship against a slick St. Attracta’s side. Attracta’s dominated the exchanges following a bright start by CBS and their pace and movement were proving difficult to deal with as on 3 occasions they carved through the CBS defence

1-13 1-9

and landed a decisive goal. Were it not for some great last ditch defending by Kyle Walshe, John Martin and James Browne the game could have been beyond the CBS at that early stage. CBS responded with a goal of their own as Orin Walsh flicked a long delivery from Ciaran Lawless to the net. A quality score from out on

the right wing from Liam Ormsby got them back in contention. The CBS went in at half-time trailing 1-8 to 1-5. CBS, despite battling on bravely, just couldn’t bridge the gap as the second half wore on and Attracta’s always seemed to be able to find a score when needed to maintain their advantage. Roscommon CBS: G Rodrigues; J Browne, J Martin, K Walsh (c); C Walsh, J Lohan, E Keane; A Looby, R Walsh; O Walsh, C Lawless, L Ormsby; C Carthy, J Fitzpatrick, T Lambe. Sub. K Doyle for Carthy.

Adult Football League Division 1 (O’Rourke Cup) (2 pm) At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v Tulsk Lord Edwards At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v Kilmore At Orchard Park: Elphin v Strokestown Adult Football League Division 2 (O’Gara Cup) At Western Gaels: Western Gaels v Fuerty. 12 pm At Rockfield: Oran v St. Faithleach’s. 2 pm At Ballinlough: Michael Glavey’s v St. Dominic’s. 2 pm At Abbey Park: Boyle v Éire Óg. 2 pm At Creggs: Creggs v Castlerea St. Kevin’s. 2 pm Adult Football League Division 3 (Tansey Cup) At Kilronan Park: St. Ronan’s v Kilglass Gaels. 1 pm At Ardcarne Park: St Michael’s v St. Aidan’s. 2 pm At Croghan: Shannon Gaels v St Barry’s. 2 pm

Underage update Saturday, February 18th U-16 Football League Division 4 At Michael Glavey’s: Michael Glavey’s v St. Brigid’s. 3.30 pm Sunday, February 19th U-16 Football League Division 1 (11 am) At Johnstown: Clann na nGael v St. Dominic’s At Lisnamult: Roscommon Gaels V Strokestown At Kiltoom: St. Brigid’s v Boyle U-16 Football League Division 2 (11 am) At O’Rourke Park: Castlerea St. Kevin’s v Elphin-Ballinameen At Pairc an Phiarsaigh: Pádraig Pearses v St. Michael’s At Rockfield: Oran v Tulsk Lord Edwards U-16 Football League Division 3 (11 am) At Ballyforan: St. Aidan’s v Western Gaels-Frenchpark At Kilmore: Kilmore/Shannon Gaels v St. Faithleach’s At Parc Naomh Bearraí: Kilglass Gaels/St. Barry’s v Kilbride U-16 Football League Division 4 (11 am) At James Timothy Park: Éire Óg v St. Croan’s

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017

GAA PEOPLE Your weekend starts here

Off The Ball off target? < PAUL HEALY

eah, sometimes they’re a bit

smug, a bit self-satisfied, and prone to laughing a bit too much at their own jokes. Politicians? Nah. I’m talking about the Off The Ball ‘team’ in Newstalk. But, even taking the annoying bits about Ger Gilroy, Joe Molloy and colleagues into account, I’m a big fan. In fact I listen to Off the Ball as much as possible. Frequently it’s great radio, and it’s been a thoroughly refreshing new approach to sports broadcasting/commentary/analysis. Even when the lads are being laddish, as sometimes happens. Mostly, however, they provide excellent, insightful, entertaining radio. And while they may be off the ball, they never seem to be off the air.

till, I was a bit disappointed with the tone of a segment on Monday evening when presenter Joe Molloy and guest Anthony Moyles were quick to characterise Roscommon’s start to the season in the context of there being ‘trouble in the camp.’ Molloy opened a short discussion on Roscommon v Donegal by saying it’s a big year ahead for Kevin McStay (fair enough) and then adding “it doesn’t seem like a happy camp.” One of them said it was “a mess” and that there seems to be a lot of discontent. Noting the absence of many key players from last season, the presenter suggested there was obviously “a lot going on” behind the scenes in Roscommon. Moyles took up the theme…Roscommon had their hands on a pool of young talent, he mused, but now it seemed as if we had dropped a grenade into that pool. Ouch! Now, let’s be fair, one can understand

Leah, Kate and Melissa McDermott pictured in Dr. Hyde Park on Sunday last. Picture: Andrew Fox

where the guys were coming from. But to characterise Roscommon’s set-up as “a mess” is, I think, just unfair. Actually I think the Off the Ball guys felt the same themselves, because a few minutes in, they checked themselves…Gilroy wondering aloud if they were being hard on Roscommon/are ill-informed. (Molloy: “Am I overblowing the discontent?”). Moyles was inclined to agree – but by then, some damage had been done! Listeners had received the same old story… Roscommon GAA in some turmoil! And, to support my point, my argument that the lads at least got the tone of their analysis wrong, here’s how Off The Ball/ Newstalk were promoting their Monday night GAA segment on their website and Twitter: ‘NFL: Tyrone stifle Dubs, Grim up North and Trouble in Ros.’

SIDELINE VIEW

Surely ‘trouble in Ros’ is a bit over the top? Is it really fair, when reviewing Roscommon’s second game of this season’s NFL – in which they have acquitted themselves really well – to contextualise the whole discussion by reference to ‘trouble in Ros’? Of course the guys were referring to the ‘Niall Daly situation’ and the absence from the 2017 panel of a number of players, many of them key men, who featured in the past. (Daly took exception to being substituted against Tyrone recently). It is true that Roscommon have lost a number of players, but is this not pretty much par for the course? Don’t counties shed players year on year? And wasn’t it inevitable, once the Fergal O’Donnell/ Kevin McStay partnership was dissolved, that some changes in playing personnel would follow?

On this occasion, I think Molloy and Moyles have dived in a bit quickly, a bit simplistically. Yes, Niall Daly obviously made his displeasure known to management last week, but that’s one situation, and besides, Kevin McStay has made it clear that the door remains open to Daly. Yes, other guys have left the panel, but some of these departures are down to retirements, the manager’s choice, other entirely normal or usual circumstances. Before Christmas, in an interview with Seamus Duke, published in the Roscommon People, Kevin McStay said “all the rumours and gossip and pub talk and tweets about a split among the players…was incredibly unfair on everyone involved.” Now don’t get me wrong: of course Roscommon supporters are deeply disappointed that so many fine experienced players are not currently involved – and I am under no illusions that there have been some tensions along the way – but I don’t think it’s accurate to start talking about a “mess” or “trouble in the camp.” Good guys left the panel, including some who retired. We should be able to note, indeed lament, the loss of key players…without lazily deeming it to be a crisis, an outbreak of trouble, a mess. I might add that the players who are currently in the Roscommon squad have done well in the first two rounds of Division One of the National Football League. These are the players who want to be there/who McStay currently wants. They deserve, and are getting, our backing. The Off the Ball guys won’t be found wanting when it comes to covering the Rossies this or any season. I just feel they got their nuances wrong on Monday night. I didn’t see any mess at the Hyde on Sunday. On the contrary, far from being a discontented camp, I thought the Roscommon players were great. Very much on the ball, in fact.

Seamus Duke

McStay leaves door open for Daly R

Kevin McStay addressed Niall Daly’s absence following Roscommon’s defeat to Donegal last Sunday. McStay admitted that Daly wasn’t happy following his half-time substitution against Tyrone the previous week but that he still remained part of the panel McStay said: “With regard to Niall Daly the situation is that he played against Tyrone last week and was substituted at half-time and he was very unhappy about that. He didn’t make the starting 15 this week and that happens in the dynamic of team games. Fintan Cregg didn’t start last week and he did this week. “Niall wasn’t happy with the situation but I cannot guarantee any player a start-

Niall Daly (pictured in action against Galway in the FBD League Final) was a notable absentee from the Roscommon panel for the game against Donegal last Sunday. Pic: Andrew Fox

oscommon manager

ing jersey. So Niall has taken a bit of time out to reflect whether he wants to come back and fight for his place on the team. It’s very disappointing in the build-up to a big match that there was a sideshow like this.” The Roscommon boss added that he was frustrated with the situation and would rather spend time discussing those who did play. “I don’t know why these things become such big issues. It’s fairly simple as far as I am concerned. Either you want to play for Roscommon or you don’t. It is disappointing that I have to spend time talking to my players and to the media about this when I should be talking about the players who are actually here. But Niall is still on the panel as it stands,” he said.

‘Either you want to play for Roscommon or you don’t!’

SHORT PASSES… Viking invasion We loved the story in last Sunday’s match programme, told by PA supremo Gerry Kehoe, who was interviewed about his years of service to the GAA. Gerry recalled a Roscommon/Dublin match from the turn of the millennium (around the time Paddy Joe the barber scored the goal in Hyde Park). At half-time, two Dubs’ fans in Viking hats ‘invaded’ the pitch and had a penalty shoot-out. Gerry recalls the late Frank Dennehy sprinting on to the pitch to try and remove them, but eventually giving up. Meanwhile, Gerry, operating the PA system then, as now, did a running commentary on the antics!

Room to improve? All the talk of the last few weeks has been about Dr. Hyde Park’s beautiful new surface and it looked like freshly-laid carpet last Sunday for the visit of Donegal. However, some of the comments regarding possible refurbishment on Sunday would put Dermot Bannon to shame… Overheard discussing décor in the gents… “Jesus, those tiles look a wee bit dated hi!” “Aye, they’ve been around a while.”

I Spy…? A mysterious stranger in a Mayo hat appeared on the terraces in the second half…he didn’t speak to anyone but did shake his head as Donegal lost possession late on…you just can’t find decent undercover scouts these days!

Manchester La La-vin! Leafing through last Sunday’s match programme, it was good to see Éire Óg clubman and Roscommon goalkeeper, Colm Lavin, feature in the ‘Player Profile’ section. Whereas the talented Donegal player, Eoghan Bán Gallagher, was tight-lipped during his Roscommon interrogation, Colm was happy to provide readers with some interesting facts about his life. It turns out that Colm was born in Manchester in 1993 and lived there until he was four - so it turns out Peter Schmeichel was in good company 24 years ago!

Roscommon People Friday 17 February 2017